bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Portal vein embolization versus dual vein embolization for management of the future liver remnant in patients undergoing major hepatectomy: meta-analysis
Authors: Bell Richard J , Hakeem Abdul R , Pandanaboyana Sanjay , Davidson Brian R , Prasad Raj K , Dasari Bobby V M
Published: November 2022

Background

This meta-analysis aimed to compare progression to surgery, extent of liver hypertrophy, and postoperative outcomes in patients planned for major hepatectomy following either portal vein embolization (PVE) or dual vein embolization (DVE) for management of an inadequate future liver remnant (FLR).

Methods

An electronic search was performed of MEDLINE, Embase, and PubMed databases using both medical subject headings (MeSH) and truncated word searches. Articles comparing PVE with DVE up to January 2022 were included. Articles comparing sequential DVE were excluded. ORs, risk ratios, and mean difference (MD) were calculated using fixed and random-effects models for meta-analysis.

Results

Eight retrospective studies including 523 patients were included in the study. Baseline characteristics between the groups, specifically, age, sex, BMI, indication for resection, and baseline FLR (ml and per cent) were comparable. The percentage increase in hypertrophy was larger in the DVE group, 66 per cent in the DVE group versus 27 per cent in the PVE group, MD 39.07 (9.09, 69.05) (P = 0.010). Significantly fewer patients failed to progress to surgery in the DVE group than the PVE group, 13 per cent versus 25 per cent respectively OR 0.53 (0.31, 0.90) (P = 0.020). Rates of post-hepatectomy liver failure 13 per cent versus 22 per cent (P = 0.130) and major complications 20 per cent versus 28 per cent (Clavien–Dindo more than IIIa) (P = 0.280) were lower. Perioperative mortality was lower with DVE, 1 per cent versus 10 per cent (P = 0.010)

Conclusion

DVE seems to produce a greater degree of hypertrophy of the FLR than PVE alone which translates into more patients progressing to surgery. Higher quality studies are needed to confirm these results.
Implicit sensorimotor adaptation is preserved in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Tsay Jonathan S , Najafi Tara , Schuck Lauren , Wang Tianhe , Ivry Richard B
Published: November 2022

Our ability to enact successful goal-directed actions involves multiple learning processes. Among these processes, implicit motor adaptation ensures that the sensorimotor system remains finely tuned in response to changes in the body and environment. Whether Parkinson’s disease impacts implicit motor adaptation remains a contentious area of research: whereas multiple reports show impaired performance in this population, many others show intact performance. While there is a range of methodological differences across studies, one critical issue is that performance in many of the studies may reflect a combination of implicit adaptation and strategic re-aiming. Here, we revisited this controversy using a visuomotor task designed to isolate implicit adaptation. In two experiments, we found that adaptation in response to a wide range of visual perturbations was similar in Parkinson’s disease and matched control participants. Moreover, in a meta-analysis of previously published and unpublished work, we found that the mean effect size contrasting Parkinson’s disease and controls across 16 experiments involving over 200 participants was not significant. Together, these analyses indicate that implicit adaptation is preserved in Parkinson’s disease, offering a fresh perspective on the role of the basal ganglia in sensorimotor learning.
Right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex regulates default prosociality preference
Authors: Tanaka Hiroki , Shou Qiulu , Kiyonari Toko , Matsuda Tetsuya , Sakagami Masamichi , Takagishi Haruto
Published: November 2022

The dorsolateral prefrontal cortex has been shown to be associated with prosocial behavior. However, the direction of this relationship remains controversial. To resolve inconsistencies in the existing literature, we introduced the concept of default prosociality preference and hypothesized that this preference moderates the relationship between gray matter volume in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and prosocial behavior. This study analyzed the data of 168 participants obtained from voxel-based morphometry, 4 types of economic games, and 3 different measures of social value orientation that represent default prosociality preference. Here we show that, in individuals who were consistently classified as proself on the 3 social value orientation measures, gray matter volume in the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex was positively associated with prosocial behavior. However, in individuals who were consistently classified as prosocial, the direction of this association was vice versa. These results indicate that the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex regulates default prosociality preference.
Neuromodulation in the developing visual cortex after long-term monocular deprivation
Authors: Malik Anju , Eldaly Abdelrahman B M , Agadagba Stephen K , Zheng Yilin , Chen Xi , He Jufang , Chan Leanne Lai-Hang
Published: November 2022

Neural dynamics are altered in the primary visual cortex (V1) during critical period monocular deprivation (MD). Synchronization of neural oscillations is pertinent to physiological functioning of the brain. Previous studies have reported chronic disruption of V1 functional properties such as ocular dominance, spatial acuity, and binocular matching after long-term monocular deprivation (LTMD). However, the possible neuromodulation and neural synchrony has been less explored. Here, we investigated the difference between juvenile and adult experience-dependent plasticity in mice from intracellular calcium signals with fluorescent indicators. We also studied alterations in local field potentials power bands and phase-amplitude coupling (PAC) of specific brain oscillations. Our results showed that LTMD in juveniles causes higher neuromodulatory changes as seen by high-intensity fluorescent signals from the non-deprived eye (NDE). Meanwhile, adult mice showed a greater response from the deprived eye (DE). LTMD in juvenile mice triggered alterations in the power of delta, theta, and gamma oscillations, followed by enhancement of delta–gamma PAC in the NDE. However, LTMD in adult mice caused alterations in the power of delta oscillations and enhancement of delta–gamma PAC in the DE. These markers are intrinsic to cortical neuronal processing during LTMD and apply to a wide range of nested oscillatory markers.
Increasing Incidence of Inflammatory Bowel Disease, with Greatest Change Among the Elderly: A Nationwide Study in Finland, 2000–2020
Authors: Kontola Kristi , Oksanen Pia , Huhtala Heini , Jussila Airi
Published: November 2022

Background and Aims

The incidence of inflammatory bowel disease [IBD] is stabilising in many Western countries. Some still show increasing incidence. Our objective was to determine the latest trends in IBD incidence and prevalence in Finland and to compare these among different age groups and between different geographical areas.

Methods

We used the nationwide registry of the Social Insurance Institute of Finland to identify new IBD cases during the period 2000–2020. Crude, age-specific, and age-standardised incidence rates were calculated. Prevalence was estimated using valid reimbursements from the same database in 2000–2020.

Results

We identified 42 498 new IBD cases. The crude annual incidence increased in ulcerative colitis [UC] from 20 to 35 (incidence date ratio [IRR] 1.03, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.02-1.03), in Crohn’s disease [CD] from 8 to 13 [IRR 1.02, CI 1.02-1.03] and in IBD overall from 28 to 48 per 100 000 person-years [IRR 1.02, CI 1.02-1.03]. Men had higher incidence than women in UC, but in CD the incidences were equal. The incidence of IBD increased in all age groups except for small children. The increase in both UC and CD was most marked among the elderly aged over 70. A north-south gradient was discernible. The crude prevalence of IBD increased from 376 to 972 per 100 000 (prevalence rate ratio [PRR] 1.05, CI 1.05-1.05).

Conclusions

The incidence of IBD, UC, and CD is increasing in Finland. The increase is most notable in the elderly. Current prevalence of IBD is 1%.
Applicability of European Society of Cardiology guidelines according to gross national income
Authors: van Dijk Wouter B , Schuit Ewoud , van der Graaf Rieke , Groenwold Rolf H H , Laurijssen Sara , Casadei Barbara , Roffi Marco , Abimbola Seye , de Vries Martine C , Grobbee Diederick E
Published: November 2022

Aims

To assess the feasibility to comply with the recommended actions of ESC guidelines on general cardiology areas in 102 countries and assess how compliance relates to the country’s income level.

Methods and results

All recommendations from seven ESC guidelines on general cardiology areas were extracted and labelled on recommended actions. A survey was sent to all 102 ESC national and affiliated cardiac societies (NCSs). Respondents were asked to score recommended actions on their availability in clinical practice on a four-point Likert scale (fully available, mostly/often available, mostly/often unavailable, fully unavailable), and select the top three barriers perceived as being responsible for limiting their national availability. Applicability was assessed overall, per World Bank gross national income (GNI) level, and per guideline.

A total of 875 guideline recommendations on general cardiology was extracted. Responses were received from 64 of 102 (62.7%) NCSs. On average, 71·6% [95% confidence interval (CI): 68.6–74.6] of the actions were fully available, 9.9% (95% CI: 8.7–11.1) mostly/often available, 6.7% (95% CI: 5.4–8.0) mostly/often unavailable, and 11·8% (95% CI: 9.5–14.1) fully unavailable. In low-income countries (LICs), substantially more actions were fully unavailable [29·4% (95% CI: 22.6–36.3)] compared with high-income countries [HICs, countries 2.4% (95% CI: 1.2–3.7); P < 0.05]. Nevertheless, a proportion of actions with the lowest availability scores were often fully or mostly unavailable independent of GNIs. Actions were most often not available due to lack of reimbursement and other financial barriers.

Conclusion

Local implementation of ESC guidelines on general cardiology is high in HICs and low in LICs , being inversely correlated with country gross national incomes.
Analysis of pCl107 a large plasmid carried by an ST25Acinetobacter baumanniistrain reveals a complex evolutionary history and links to multiple antibiotic resistance and metabolic pathways
Authors: Rafei Rayane , Koong Jonathan , Osman Marwan , Al Atrouni Ahmad , Hamze Monzer , Hamidian Mehrad
Published: November 2022

Acinetobacter baumannii has successfully spread during the last decades as one of the main critically important pathogens. However, many aspects including plasmids, are still under-investigated. Here, we report the complete sequence of an Acinetobacter baumannii strain, belonging to the ST25IP (Institut Pasteur) sequence type recovered in 2012 in Lebanon, using a combination of Illumina MiSeq and Oxford Nanopore sequencing and a hybrid assembly approach. This strain (Cl107) carries a 198 kb plasmid called pCl107 that encodes the MPFI conjugative transfer system. The plasmid carries the aacA1, aacC2, sul2, strAB, and tetA(B) antibiotic resistance genes. pCl107 region encompassing the sul2, strAB, tetA(B) is closely related to AbGRI1 chromosomal resistance islands, which are widespread in A. baumannii strains belonging to Global Clone 2. The resistance region found in pCl107 is one of the missing links in the evolutionary history of the AbGRI1 islands. pCl107 also contains a BREX Type 1 region and represents one of the two main evolution patterns observed in BREX clusters found in plasmids related to pCl107. pCl107 also harbours a ptx phosphonate metabolism module, which plays an ancestral structure compared to other large plasmids in ST25 strains. While the uric acid metabolic module found in pCl107 is incomplete, we identified possible ancestors from plasmids and chromosomes of Acinetobacter spp. Our analyses indicate a complex evolutionary history of plasmids related to pCl107 with many links to multiple antibiotic resistance and metabolic pathways.
Public Health Need, Molecular Targets, and Opportunities for the Accelerated Development of Function-Promoting Therapies: Proceedings of a National Institute on Aging Workshop
Authors: Correa-de-Araujo Rosaly , Bhasin Shalender
Published: November 2022

Background

People ≥ 65 years are expected to live a substantial portion of their remaining lives with a limiting physical condition and the numbers of affected individuals will increase substantially due to the growth of the population of older adults worldwide. The age-related loss of muscle mass, strength, and function is associated with an increased risk of physical disabilities, falls, loss of independence, metabolic disorders, and mortality. The development of function-promoting therapies to prevent and treat age-related skeletal muscle functional limitations is a pressing public health problem.

Methods

On March 20–22, 2022, the National Institute on Aging (NIA) held a workshop entitled “Development of Function-Promoting Therapies: Public Health Need, Molecular Targets, and Drug Development.”

Results

The workshop covered a variety of topics including advances in muscle biology, novel candidate molecules, findings from randomized trials, and challenges in the design of clinical trials and regulatory approval of function-promoting therapies. Leading academic investigators, representatives from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), professional societies, pharmaceutical industry, and patient advocacy organizations shared research findings and identified research gaps and strategies to advance the development of function-promoting therapies. A diverse audience of 397 national and international professionals attended the conference.

Conclusions

Function-promoting therapies to prevent and treat physical disabilities associated with aging and chronic diseases are a public health imperative. Appropriately powered, well-designed clinical trials and synergistic collaboration among academic experts, patients and stakeholders, the NIH and the FDA, and the pharmaceutical industry are needed to accelerate the development of function-promoting therapies.
Tectonic stress fields inferred from long-term CMT data ranging over different periods
Authors: Terakawa Toshiko , Matsu'ura Mitsuhiro
Published: November 2022

We have developed an inversion method for estimating 3-D tectonic stress fields from centroid moment tensor (CMT) data of seismic events. To obtain reliable inversion analysis results, we need to use as much data as possible, ranging over different periods. In this study, we improved the previously developed CMT data inversion method to incorporate preceding inversion analysis results into the present analysis as direct prior information about the stress field. The spatial distribution of seismic events and/or their focal mechanisms in a region would change from one period to another, reflecting temporal stress changes there. In the improved inversion method, in addition to the hyperparameter controlling the roughness of stress fields, we introduced another hyperparameter that controls the relative weight of direct prior information to the observed data to be analysed. The relative weights of direct and indirect prior information to the observed data are appropriately determined by using Akaike's Bayesian Information Criterion. We applied the improved inversion method to the observed CMT data of seismic events of 24 yr (1997−2020) in northeast Japan, where the Tohoku-oki megathrust event (Mw 9.0) occurred on 11 March 2011 at the North American–Pacific Plate boundary. To investigate temporal changes in tectonic stress orientation, we divided the target period into the inter-, pre- and post-seismic periods of the megathrust event: P1 (January 1997−January 2007), P2 (February 2007−February 2011), and P3 (March 2011−December 2020). According to successive inversion analysis results for P1 and P2, we confirmed that the tectonic stress orientation was stable for 14 yr before the megathrust event. On the other hand, successive inversion analysis results for P2 and P3 indicated a possibility that the 2011 megathrust event caused significant changes in tectonic stress orientation in three regions. However, two of them were negative in the quantitative evaluation of the reliability of detected temporal changes. In conclusion, the stress orientation change in the region off Fukushima and Ibaraki, the southern margin of the main rupture area of the megathrust event, seems to be real.
Solar farm: siting, design and land footprint analysis
Authors: Sukumaran Sreenath , Sudhakar Kumarasamy , Yusop Ahmad Fitri , Kirpichnikova Irina , Cuce Erdem
Published: November 2022

Solar farms are becoming a crucial part of the renewable energy mix. Yet, the literature has not reported a generalized approach to its design. In this regard, this paper attempts to provide a detailed plan of a 5-MW grid-connected solar farm. In addition, the procedure to analyze the land footprint of the solar plant is also developed. At first, the main components of the solar farm are selected qualitatively. Then, using an excel spreadsheet, the sizing of photovoltaic (PV) array, inverters, combiner boxes, transformers, cables and protection devices is carried out. Finally, the land footprint analysis of the proposed solar farm was carried out mathematically. The proposed solar PV power plant comprises 13 490 numbers of PV modules with a 365-W rating. Nineteen numbers of PV modules will constitute a string. One hundred forty-two numbers of strings will be connected to an inverter of 1 MW rating. The energy output from five such inverters will be fed to the nearest electric substation using a transformer of 1 MVA capacity. The DC and AC cables having a voltage drop of less than 1% are selected. The inter-row distance and ground coverage ratio (GCR) are estimated as 1 and 0.78 m, respectively. The required number of mounting module structures is found to be 710. The proposed solar farm’s total land use requirement is ~43768.41 m2 (around 3 acres). It was observed that the sizing of solar plant components mainly depends on the electrical parameters of the PV module and inverter selected by the designer. Similarly, the land use requirement is influenced by the inter-row distance and PV site layout. This research is expected to streamline the different approaches of solar farm design, which will be beneficial to energy professionals and policymakers.
Legislating Propaganda
Authors: Nuzov Ilya
Published: November 2022

In this article I argue that Russia’s use of memory laws has facilitated the armed conflict in Ukraine, bolstering the rhetorical justification for Russia’s latest aggression. The use of memory laws is hardly new for various legal systems around the world. Most of the early European memory laws have focused on the protection of victim groups from harmful ideologies, however the last two decades have seen a shift away from victim-centric to state-centric laws, especially in Eastern Europe. These laws protect the state’s honour and reputation and have serious ramifications domestically, in terms of human rights violations, but also in international relations. I argue that due to the relationship between identity-building and collective memory, the use of the most nefarious types of memory laws that exculpate the state from earlier crimes has enabled Russia to amplify its propaganda around Ukraine’s so-called ‘denazification’, justifying its aggression against Ukraine. The case study constitutes an example of the many reasons why memory laws should be used sparingly.
Efficacy and exploratory biomarker analysis of entinostat plus exemestane in advanced or recurrent breast cancer: phase II randomized controlled trial
Authors: Iwata Hiroji , Nakamura Rikiya , Masuda Norikazu , Yamashita Toshinari , Yamamoto Yutaka , Kobayashi Kokoro , Tsurutani Junji , Iwasa Tsutomu , Yonemori Kan , Tamura Kenji , Aruga Tomoyuki , Tokunaga Eriko , Kaneko Koji , Lee Min-Jung , Yuno Akira , Kawabata Azusa , Seike Toshihiro , Kaneda Ayumi , Nishimura Yozo , Trepel Jane B , Saji Shigehira
Published: November 2022

Background

We aimed to confirm the efficacy and safety of the oral histone deacetylase inhibitor entinostat in Japanese patients with hormone receptor-positive advanced/recurrent breast cancer and to explore potential biomarkers.

Methods

This phase II, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial (ClinicalTrials.gov; NCT03291886) was conducted at 28 Japanese sites (September 2017–July 2020; interim analysis cutoff: April 2019). Patients with progression/relapse following non-steroidal aromatase inhibitors were randomized 1:1 to entinostat (5 mg/week) or placebo, plus exemestane (25 mg/day). Primary endpoint was progression-free survival; secondary endpoints included overall survival and safety. Exploratory biomarker outcomes included lysine acetylation, immune cell profiles, estrogen receptor 1 mutations and plasma chemokines.

Results

Of 133 randomized patients, 131 (65 entinostat, 66 placebo) who received study drug were analyzed. Median (95% confidence interval) progression-free survival was 5.8 (3.2–7.8) months for entinostat and 3.3 (3.1–5.8) months for placebo (hazard ratio [95% confidence interval]: 0.75 [0.50 − 1.14]; P = 0.189). Median overall survival was not reached in either group. Entinostat tended to prolong progression-free survival in patients aged ≥65 years, not endocrine resistant, or with estrogen receptor 1 Y537S mutation. Candidate biomarkers of efficacy (progression-free survival) included lysine acetylation in CD3+ cells, plasma interferon gamma-induced protein 10, dendritic cell CD86 expression, and CD4+ cell expression of human leukocyte antigen-DR and inducible T-cell co-stimulator. Safety was similar to non-Japanese populations; however, seven entinostat-treated patients (10.8%) had reversible lung injury.

Conclusions

In Japanese patients, the safety of entinostat plus exemestane was acceptable and progression-free survival was prolonged, although not significantly. Exploratory analyses identified potential biomarkers, including lysine acetylation, of efficacy.
Long-Term Impact of Diagnosed Fetal Anomaly on Parental Traumatic Stress, Resilience, and Relationship Satisfaction
Authors: Oftedal Aurora , Bekkhus Mona , Haugen Guttorm , Hjemdal Odin , Czajkowski Nikolai Olavi , Kaasen Anne
Published: November 2022

Objective

Knowledge regarding the long-term psychological adjustment of parents to children with prenatal diagnosis of congenital malformation is scarce. The aim of this study is to examine traumatic stress trajectories, resilience, and relationship satisfaction among parents to children with prenatal diagnosis of a congenital malformation, and to compare this to a sample of non-affected parents.

Methods

A prospective longitudinal cohort study was conducted at a tertiary perinatal referral center. Ninety-three mothers and 80 fathers who received a diagnosis of fetal anomaly during obstetric ultrasound examination (study group), and 110 mothers and 98 fathers with normal ultrasound findings (comparison group), reported their traumatic stress at four timepoints during pregnancy (T1–T4), 6 weeks after birth (T5), and 10–12 years after birth (T6). Resilience and relationship satisfaction was reported at 10–12 years after birth.

Results

Parents to children with a congenital malformation experienced significantly elevated traumatic stress levels over time, compared with parents of children without congenital malformation. The difference between groups was largest acutely after diagnosis and remained significant 10–12 years after the birth of the child. Resilience and relationship satisfaction levels were similar in both groups.

Conclusions

Despite experiencing high levels of traumatic stress over time, parents to children with a congenital malformation reported resilience and relationship satisfaction at similar levels to non-affected parents. This suggests that despite ongoing long-term distress, parents are still able to maintain positive psychological coping resources.
The information content of projected galaxy fields
Authors: Porth Lucas , Bernstein Gary M , Smith Robert E , Lee Abigail J
Published: November 2022

The power spectrum of the non-linearly evolved large-scale mass distribution recovers only a minority of the information available on the mass fluctuation amplitude. We investigate the recovery of this information in 2D ‘slabs’ of the mass distribution averaged over ≈100 h−1 Mpc along the line of sight, as might be obtained from photometric redshift surveys. We demonstrate a Hamiltonian Monte Carlo method to reconstruct the non-Gaussian mass distribution in slabs, under the assumption that the projected field is a point-transformed Gaussian random field, Poisson-sampled by galaxies. When applied to the Quijote N-body suite at z = 0.5 and at a transverse resolution of 2 h−1 Mpc, the method recovers ∼30 times more information than the 2D power spectrum in the well-sampled limit, recovering the Gaussian limit on information. At a more realistic galaxy sampling density of 0.01 h3 Mpc−3, shot noise reduces the information gain to a factor of 5 improvement over the power spectrum at resolutions of 4 h−1 Mpc or smaller.
MIGHTEE: deep 1.4 GHz source counts and the sky temperature contribution of star-forming galaxies and active galactic nuclei
Authors: Hale C L , Whittam I H , Jarvis M J , Best P N , Thomas N L , Heywood I , Prescott M , Adams N , Afonso J , An Fangxia , Bowler R A A , Collier J D , Cook R H W , Davé R , Frank B S , Glowacki M , Hatfield P W , Kolwa S , Lovell C C , Maddox N , Marchetti L , Morabito L K , Murphy E , Prandoni I , Randriamanakoto Z , Taylor A R
Published: November 2022

We present deep 1.4 GHz source counts from ∼5 deg2 of the continuum Early Science data release of the MeerKAT International Gigahertz Tiered Extragalactic Exploration survey down to S1.4GHz ∼15 $\mu$Jy. Using observations over two extragalactic fields (COSMOS and XMM-LSS), we provide a comprehensive investigation into correcting the incompleteness of the raw source counts within the survey to understand the true underlying source count population. We use a variety of simulations that account for: errors in source detection and characterization, clustering, and variations in the assumed source model used to simulate sources within the field and characterize source count incompleteness. We present these deep source count distributions and use them to investigate the contribution of extragalactic sources to the sky background temperature at 1.4 GHz using a relatively large sky area. We then use the wealth of ancillary data covering a subset of the COSMOS field to investigate the specific contributions from both active galactic nuclei (AGN) and star-forming galaxies (SFGs) to the source counts and sky background temperature. We find, similar to previous deep studies, that we are unable to reconcile the sky temperature observed by the ARCADE 2 experiment. We show that AGN provide the majority contribution to the sky temperature contribution from radio sources, but the relative contribution of SFGs rises sharply below 1 mJy, reaching an approximate 15–25 per cent contribution to the total sky background temperature (Tb ∼100 mK) at ∼15 $\mu$Jy.
AGNet: weighing black holes with deep learning
Authors: Lin Joshua Yao-Yu , Pandya Sneh , Pratap Devanshi , Liu Xin , Carrasco Kind Matias , Kindratenko Volodymyr
Published: November 2022

Supermassive black holes (SMBHs) are commonly found at the centres of most massive galaxies. Measuring SMBH mass is crucial for understanding the origin and evolution of SMBHs. Traditional approaches, on the other hand, necessitate the collection of spectroscopic data, which is costly. We present an algorithm that weighs SMBHs using quasar light time series information, including colours, multiband magnitudes, and the variability of the light curves, circumventing the need for expensive spectra. We train, validate, and test neural networks that directly learn from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) Stripe 82 light curves for a sample of 38 939 spectroscopically confirmed quasars to map out the non-linear encoding between SMBH mass and multiband optical light curves. We find a 1σ scatter of 0.37 dex between the predicted SMBH mass and the fiducial virial mass estimate based on SDSS single-epoch spectra, which is comparable to the systematic uncertainty in the virial mass estimate. Our results have direct implications for more efficient applications with future observations from the Vera C. Rubin Observatory. Our code, AGNet, is publicly available at https://github.com/snehjp2/AGNet.
HD 16424: A new weak G-band star with high Li abundance
Authors: Holanda N , Drake N A , Pereira C B
Published: November 2022

The origin of the so-called weak G-band stars constitutes an unsolved problem in stellar astrophysics. In this context, we present a detailed abundance analysis of a new weak G-band star, HD 16424, which stands out with a very low 12C/13C ratio and Li and Na overabundance. Our work is based on the high-resolution échelle spectrum (R ≈ 48 000) and includes photometric and astrometric data from the literature. The analysis adopted in this work is performed under local thermodynamic equilibrium (LTE) approximation; we determine the atmospheric parameters (Teff, $\log \, g$, [Fe/H], and ξ), abundances for proton-capture elements (C, N, O, Li), s-process elements (Y, Zr, La), and mixing tracers such as the 12C/13C isotopic ratio and sodium abundance, following by NLTE corrections applied to Li, O, and Na abundances. Our results show 12C deficiency ([C/Fe] = −0.57) and N enrichment ([N/Fe]  =  +0.97), that is typical for weak G-band stars. Also, we notice a carbon isotopic ratio characteristic of the CN-cycle equilibrium (〈12C/13C〉  =  4.0) and high lithium-7 abundance ($\log \, \varepsilon$(Li)NLTE  =  2.85). In addition, this study shows a low projected rotational velocity ($v\, \sin \, i$  =  2.0 km s−1) and low mass (1.61 M⊙) of HD 16424, which distinguishes this star from the intermediate-mass objects found in this class of peculiar objects.
Optical follow-up of the tick-tock massive black hole binary candidate
Authors: Dotti Massimo , Bonetti Matteo , Rigamonti Fabio , Bortolas Elisa , Fossati Matteo , Decarli Roberto , Covino Stefano , Lupi Alessandro , Franchini Alessia , Sesana Alberto , Calderone Giorgio
Published: November 2022

The observation of a population of massive black hole binaries (MBHBs) is key for our complete understanding of galaxy mergers and for the characterization of the expected gravitational waves (GWs) signal. However, MBHBs still remain elusive with only a few candidates proposed to date. Among these, SDSSJ143016.05 + 230344.4 (’tick-tock’ hereafter) is the only candidate with a remarkably well sampled light curve showing a clear reduction of the modulation period and amplitude over three years of observations. This particular feature has been recently claimed to be the signature of a MBHB that is about to merge. In this paper, we provide an optical follow-up of the tick-tock source using the Rapid Eye Mount (REM) telescope. The decreasing luminosity observed in our follow up is hardly explained within the binary scenario. We speculate about an alternative scenario that might explain the observed light curve through relativistic Lense-Thirring precession of an accretion disc around a single massive black hole.
Image plane detection of FRB121102 with the MeerKAT radio telescope
Authors: Andrianjafy J C , Heeralall-Issur N , Deshpande A A , Golap K , Woudt P , Caleb M , Barr E D , Chen W , Jankowski F , Kramer M , Stappers B W , Wu J
Published: November 2022

We present the analysis of radio interferometric 2-s images from a MeerKAT observation of the repeating fast radio burst FRB121102 in 2019 September, during which 11 distinct pulses have been previously detected using high time and frequency resolution data cubes. In this work, we detected 6 out of the 11 bursts in the image plane at 1.48 GHz with a minimum peak signal-to-noise ratio (S/N) of 5σ and a fluence detection limit of ∼0.512 Jy ms. These constitute the first detections of a fast radio burst (FRB) or a radio transient using 2-s time-scale images with MeerKAT data. Analysis of the fitted burst properties revealed a weighted average precision of ∼1 arcsec in the localization of the bursts. The accurate knowledge of FRB positions is essential for identifying their host galaxy and understanding their mysterious nature that is still unresolved to this day. We also produced 2-s images at 1.09 GHz but yielded no detection that we attributed to the spectral structure of the pulses that are mostly higher in strength in the upper frequencies. We also explore a new approach to difference image analysis (DIA) to search for transients and find that our technique has the potential to reduce the number of candidates and could be used to automate the detection of FRBs in the image plane for future MeerKAT observations.
Evolution of grain size distribution with enhanced abundance of small carbonaceous grains in galactic environments
Authors: Hirashita Hiroyuki
Published: November 2022

We propose an updated dust evolution model that focuses on the grain size distribution in a galaxy. We treat the galaxy as a one-zone object and include five main processes (stellar dust production, dust destruction in supernova shocks, grain growth by accretion and coagulation, and grain disruption by shattering). In this paper, we improve the predictions related to small carbonaceous grains, which are responsible for the 2175-Å bump in the extinction curve and the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon emission features in the dust emission spectral energy distribution (SED), both of which were underpredicted in our previous model. In the new model, we hypothesize that small carbonaceous grains are not involved in interstellar processing. This avoids small carbonaceous grains being lost by coagulation. We find that this hypothetical model shows a much better match to the Milky Way (MW) extinction curve and dust emission SED than the previous one. The following two additional modifications further make the fit to the MW dust emission SED better (i) The chemical enrichment model is adjusted to give a nearly solar metallicity in the present epoch, and the fraction of metals available for dust growth is limited to half. (ii) Aromatization for small carbonaceous grains is efficient, so that the aromatic fraction is unity at grain radii ≲ 20 Å. As a consequence of our modelling, we succeed in obtaining a dust evolution model that explains the MW extinction curve and dust emission SED at the same time.
A systematic validation of hot Neptunes in TESS data
Authors: Magliano Christian , Covone Giovanni , Dobal Richa , Cacciapuoti Luca , Tonietti Luca , Giacalone Steven , Vines Jose I , Inno Laura , Jenkins James S , Lissauer Jack J , Bieryla Allyson , Oliva Fabrizio , Pagano Isabella , Kostov Veselin , Ziegler Carl , Ciardi David R , Gonzales Erica J , Dressing Courtney D , Buchhave Lars A , Howell Steve B , Matson Rachel A , Matthews Elisabeth , Rotundi Alessandra , Alves Douglas , Fiscale Stefano , Ienco Riccardo M , Peña Pablo , Gallo Francesco , Muscari Tomajoli Maria T
Published: November 2022

We statistically validated a sample of hot Neptune candidates applying a two-step vetting technique using dave and triceratops. We performed a systematic validation of 250 transit-like events in the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite archive in the parameter region defined by $P\le 4\, \text{d}$ and $3\, {\rm R}_{\oplus }\le R \le 5\, {\rm R}_{\oplus }$. Through our analysis, we identified 18 hot Neptune-sized candidates, with a false positive probability ${\lt}50{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$. Nine of these planet candidates still need to be confirmed. For each of the nine targets, we retrieved the stellar parameters using ARIADNE and derived constraints on the planetary parameters by fitting the light curves with the juliet package. Within this sample of nine candidates, we statistically validated (i.e. with false positive probability ${\lt}0.3{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$) two systems (TOI-277 b and TOI-1288 b) by re-processing the candidates with triceratops along with follow-up observations. These new validated exoplanets expand the known hot Neptunes population and are high-priority targets for future radial velocities follow-up.
UTRdb 2.0: a comprehensive, expert curated catalog of eukaryotic mRNAs untranslated regions
Authors: Lo Giudice Claudio , Zambelli Federico , Chiara Matteo , Pavesi Giulio , Tangaro Marco Antonio , Picardi Ernesto , Pesole Graziano
Published: November 2022

The 5′ and 3′ untranslated regions of eukaryotic mRNAs (UTRs) play crucial roles in the post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression through the modulation of nucleo-cytoplasmic mRNA transport, translation efficiency, subcellular localization, and message stability. Since 1996, we have developed and maintained UTRdb, a specialized database of UTR sequences. Here we present UTRdb 2.0, a major update of UTRdb featuring an extensive collection of eukaryotic 5′ and 3′ UTR sequences, including over 26 million entries from over 6 million genes and 573 species, enriched with a curated set of functional annotations. Annotations include CAGE tags and polyA signals to label the completeness of 5′ and 3′UTRs, respectively. In addition, uORFs and IRES are annotated in 5′UTRs as well as experimentally validated miRNA targets in 3′UTRs. Further annotations include evolutionarily conserved blocks, Rfam motifs, ADAR-mediated RNA editing events, and m6A modifications. A web interface allowing a flexible selection and retrieval of specific subsets of UTRs, selected according to a combination of criteria, has been implemented which also provides comprehensive download facilities. UTRdb 2.0 is accessible at http://utrdb.cloud.ba.infn.it/utrdb/
IMG/VR v4: an expanded database of uncultivated virus genomes within a framework of extensive functional, taxonomic, and ecological metadata
Authors: Camargo Antonio Pedro , Nayfach Stephen , Chen I-Min A , Palaniappan Krishnaveni , Ratner Anna , Chu Ken , Ritter Stephan J , Reddy T B K , Mukherjee Supratim , Schulz Frederik , Call Lee , Neches Russell Y , Woyke Tanja , Ivanova Natalia N , Eloe-Fadrosh Emiley A , Kyrpides Nikos C , Roux Simon
Published: November 2022

Viruses are widely recognized as critical members of all microbiomes. Metagenomics enables large-scale exploration of the global virosphere, progressively revealing the extensive genomic diversity of viruses on Earth and highlighting the myriad of ways by which viruses impact biological processes. IMG/VR provides access to the largest collection of viral sequences obtained from (meta)genomes, along with functional annotation and rich metadata. A web interface enables users to efficiently browse and search viruses based on genome features and/or sequence similarity. Here, we present the fourth version of IMG/VR, composed of >15 million virus genomes and genome fragments, a ≈6-fold increase in size compared to the previous version. These clustered into 8.7 million viral operational taxonomic units, including 231 408 with at least one high-quality representative. Viral sequences in IMG/VR are now systematically identified from genomes, metagenomes, and metatranscriptomes using a new detection approach (geNomad), and IMG standard annotation are complemented with genome quality estimation using CheckV, taxonomic classification reflecting the latest taxonomic standards, and microbial host taxonomy prediction. IMG/VR v4 is available at https://img.jgi.doe.gov/vr, and the underlying data are available to download at https://genome.jgi.doe.gov/portal/IMG_VR.
The next-generation Open Targets Platform: reimagined, redesigned, rebuilt
Authors: Ochoa David , Hercules Andrew , Carmona Miguel , Suveges Daniel , Baker Jarrod , Malangone Cinzia , Lopez Irene , Miranda Alfredo , Cruz-Castillo Carlos , Fumis Luca , Bernal-Llinares Manuel , Tsukanov Kirill , Cornu Helena , Tsirigos Konstantinos , Razuvayevskaya Olesya , Buniello Annalisa , Schwartzentruber Jeremy , Karim Mohd , Ariano Bruno , Martinez Osorio Ricardo Esteban , Ferrer Javier , Ge Xiangyu , Machlitt-Northen Sandra , Gonzalez-Uriarte Asier , Saha Shyamasree , Tirunagari Santosh , Mehta Chintan , Roldán-Romero Juan María , Horswell Stuart , Young Sarah , Ghoussaini Maya , Hulcoop David G , Dunham Ian , McDonagh Ellen M
Published: November 2022

The Open Targets Platform (https://platform.opentargets.org/) is an open source resource to systematically assist drug target identification and prioritisation using publicly available data. Since our last update, we have reimagined, redesigned, and rebuilt the Platform in order to streamline data integration and harmonisation, expand the ways in which users can explore the data, and improve the user experience. The gene–disease causal evidence has been enhanced and expanded to better capture disease causality across rare, common, and somatic diseases. For target and drug annotations, we have incorporated new features that help assess target safety and tractability, including genetic constraint, PROTACtability assessments, and AlphaFold structure predictions. We have also introduced new machine learning applications for knowledge extraction from the published literature, clinical trial information, and drug labels. The new technologies and frameworks introduced since the last update will ease the introduction of new features and the creation of separate instances of the Platform adapted to user requirements. Our new Community forum, expanded training materials, and outreach programme support our users in a range of use cases.
A single-cell human islet interactome atlas identifies disrupted autocrine and paracrine communications in type 2 diabetes
Authors: Bosi Emanuele , Marselli Lorella , Suleiman Mara , Tesi Marta , De Luca Carmela , Del Guerra Silvia , Cnop Miriam , Eizirik Decio L , Marchetti Piero
Published: November 2022

A sensible control of hormone secretion from pancreatic islets requires concerted inter-cellular communications, but a comprehensive picture of the whole islet interactome is presently missing. Single-cell transcriptomics allows to overcome this and we used here a single-cell dataset from type 2 diabetic (T2D) and non-diabetic (ND) donors to leverage islet interaction networks. The single-cell dataset contains 3046 cells classified in 7 cell types. The interactions across cell types in T2D and ND were obtained and resulting networks analysed to identify high-centrality genes and altered interactions in T2D. The T2D interactome displayed a higher number of interactions (10 787) than ND (9707); 1289 interactions involved beta cells (1147 in ND). High-centrality genes included EGFR, FGFR1 and FGFR2, important for cell survival and proliferation. In conclusion, this analysis represents the first in silico model of the human islet interactome, enabling the identification of signatures potentially relevant for T2D pathophysiology.
Pinxian Wang: no place for a ‘gold rush’ in the exploration of the deep sea
Authors: Zhao Weijie , Zhou Zhonghe
Published: November 2022

Prof. Pinxian Wang (汪品先) of Tongji University, born in 1936, is one of the leading deep-sea scientists in China. As the first co-chief scientist of Chinese nationality in the international Ocean Drilling Program (ODP), he co-led ODP Leg 184 in 1999; and in 2018, at 82 years old, he dived to a depth of 1400 meters in the South China Sea (SCS) in China's manned submersible ‘Deep Sea Warrior’. In recent years, he has also become a star of science popularization in China—he has more than 1.7 million followers on China's video-sharing platform bilibili, and his popular science book Deep Sea in Simple Words is a best seller.

In September 2022, Prof. Wang was interviewed by NSR’s Associate Editor-in-Chief, Zhonghe Zhou. In this interview, Prof. Wang summarized his six-decade-long scientific career, talked about the past and future of China's deep-sea research efforts, and explained his opinion on how to promote scientific culture in China.
Safety and Clinical Activity of SHR7390 Monotherapy or Combined With Camrelizumab for Advanced Solid Tumor: Results From Two Phase I Trials
Authors: Wei Xiao-Li , Zhang Yang , Zhao Hong-Yun , Fang Wen-Feng , Luo Hui-Yan , Qiu Miao-Zhen , He Ming-Ming , Zou Ben-Yan , Xie Jie , Jin Chun-Lei , Zhou Xian-Feng , Wang Feng , Wang Feng-Hua , Li Yu-Hong , Wang Zhi-Qiang , Xu Rui-Hua
Published: November 2022

Background

SHR7390 is a novel, selective MEK1/2 inhibitor. Here, we report results from two phase I trials conducted to evaluate the tolerability, safety and antitumor activity of SHR7390 monotherapy for advanced solid tumors and SHR7390 plus camrelizumab for treatment-refractory advanced or metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC).

Patients and Methods

Patients received SHR7390 alone or combined with fixed-dose camrelizumab (200 mg every 2 weeks) in an accelerated titration scheme to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD). A recommended dose for expansion was determined based on the safety and tolerability of the dose-escalation stage. The primary endpoints were dose limiting toxicity (DLT) and MTD.

Results

In the SHR7390 monotherapy trial, 16 patients were enrolled. DLTs were reported in the 1.0 mg cohort, and the MTD was 0.75 mg. Grade ≥3 treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs) were recorded in 4 patients (25.0%). No patients achieved objective response. In the SHR7390 combination trial, 22 patients with CRC were enrolled. One DLT was reported in the 0.5 mg cohort and the MTD was not reached. Grade ≥3 TRAEs were observed in 8 patients (36.4%), with the most common being rash (n=4). One grade 5 TRAE (increased intracranial pressure) occurred. Five patients (22.7%) achieved partial response, including one of 3 patients with MSS/MSI-L and BRAF mutant tumors, one of 15 patients with MSS/MSI-L and BRAF wild type tumors, and all 3 patients with MSI-H tumors.

Conclusions

SHR7390 0.5 mg plus camrelizumab showed a manageable safety profile. Preliminary clinical activity was reported regardless of MSI and BRAF status.
Physical Activity Intervention in Patients with Metastatic Breast Cancer During Active Treatment: Quality of Life and Function
Authors: Shachar Shlomit Strulov , Heiling Hillary , Muss Hyman B , Meghan Damone , Wagoner Chad W , Deal Allison M , Nyrop Kirsten A
Published: November 2022

Background

In this study, we explore recruitment, retention, and potential quality of life (QoL) and function benefits from a self-directed, home-based walking intervention in women during active treatment for metastatic breast cancer (MBC).

Methods

In this single-arm pilot study, women with stage IV BC wore an activity tracker (FitbitTM) to measure steps per week throughout the intervention study. Participants were asked to walk 150 min per week at a comfortable and safe pace. Patient-reported outcome measures (PRO) were collected at baseline and follow-up.

Results

Target recruitment of 60 patients was achieved. In 52 patients who completed all baseline measures, mean age was 55 (SD 11.1), 23% were pre-menopausal, and 19% non-White. Forty patients (77%) were retained at 3 months and 29 (56%) at 6 months. Baseline walking was the strongest predictor of retention at 3 months (P = .02). For 24 patients (46%) with analyzable Fitbit data at 3 months, mean steps/week rose from 19,175 to 31,306. Higher number of steps correlated with larger improvements FACT-G General well-being (FACT-G, rho = 0.55, P = .01), FACT-G Physical well-being (rho = 0.48, P = .03), and PROMIS Mental Health (rho = 0.55, P = .01).

Conclusion

Recruitment into a walking intervention is feasible (a priory target of N = 60) in women during treatment for MBC, but retention at 3 months follow-up fell short (77% versus a priori 80%), yet there were potential benefits in general and physical well-being and mental health.

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier

NCT02682836.