bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Variable scintillation arcs of millisecond pulsars observed with the Large European Array for Pulsars
Authors: Main R A , Antoniadis J , Chen S , Cognard I , Hu H , Jang J , Karuppusamy R , Kramer M , Liu K , Liu Y , Mall G , McKee J W , Mickaliger M B , Perrodin D , Sanidas S A , Stappers B W , Sprenger T , Wucknitz O , Bassa C G , Burgay M , Concu R , Gaikwad M , Janssen G H , Lee K J , Melis A , Pilia M , Possenti A , Wang L , Zhu W W
Published: July 2023

We present the first large sample of scintillation arcs in millisecond pulsars (MSPs), analysing 12 sources observed with the Large European Array for Pulsars (LEAP), and the Effelsberg 100-m telescope. We estimate the delays from multipath propagation, measuring significant correlated changes in scattering time-scales over a 10 yr time span. Many sources show compact concentrations of power in the secondary spectrum, which in PSRs J0613−0200 and J1600−3053 can be tracked between observations, and are consistent with compact scattering at fixed angular positions. Other sources such as PSRs J1643−1224 and J0621+1002 show diffuse, asymmetric arcs which are likely related to phase-gradients across the scattering screen. PSR B1937+21 shows at least three distinct screens which dominate at different times and evidence of varying screen axes or multiscreen interactions. We model annual and orbital arc curvature variations in PSR J0613−0200, providing a measurement of the longitude of ascending node, resolving the sense of the orbital inclination, where our best-fit model is of a screen with variable axis of anisotropy over time, corresponding to changes in the scattering of the source. Unmodelled variations of the screen’s axis of anisotropy are likely to be a limiting factor in determining orbital parameters with scintillation, requiring careful consideration of variable screen properties, or independent very long baseline interferometry (VLBI) measurements. Long-term scintillation studies such as this serve as a complementary tool to pulsar timing, to measure a source of correlated noise for pulsar timing arrays, solve pulsar orbits, and to understand the astrophysical origin of scattering screens.
Identifying the SN 2022acko progenitor with JWST
Authors: Van Dyk Schuyler D , Bostroem K Azalee , Zheng WeiKang , Brink Thomas G , Fox Ori D , Andrews Jennifer E , Filippenko Alexei V , Dong Yize , Hoang Emily , Hosseinzadeh Griffin , Janzen Daryl , Jencson Jacob E , Lundquist Michael J , Meza Nicolas , Milisavljevic Dan , Pearson Jeniveve , Sand David J , Shrestha Manisha , Valenti Stefano , Howell D Andrew
Published: July 2023

We report on analysis using the JWST to identify a candidate progenitor star of the Type II-plateau (II-P) supernova SN 2022acko in the nearby, barred spiral galaxy NGC 1300. To our knowledge, our discovery represents the first time JWST has been used to localize a progenitor system in pre-explosion archival Hubble Space Telescope (HST) images. We astrometrically registered a JWST NIRCam image from 2023 January, in which the SN was serendipitously captured, to pre-SN HST F160W and F814W images from 2017 and 2004, respectively. An object corresponding precisely to the SN position has been isolated with reasonable confidence. That object has a spectral energy distribution (SED) and overall luminosity consistent with a single-star model having an initial mass possibly somewhat less than the canonical 8 M⊙ theoretical threshold for core collapse (although masses as high as 9 M⊙ for the star are also possible); however, the star’s SED and luminosity are inconsistent with that of a super-asymptotic giant branch star that might be a forerunner of an electron-capture SN. The properties of the progenitor alone imply that SN 2022acko is a relatively normal SN II-P, albeit most likely a low-luminosity one. The progenitor candidate should be confirmed with follow-up HST imaging at late times, when the SN has sufficiently faded. This potential use of JWST opens a new era of identifying SN progenitor candidates at high spatial resolution.
The second set of pulsar discoveries by CHIME/FRB/Pulsar: 14 rotating radio transients and 7 pulsars
Authors: Dong Fengqiu Adam , Crowter Kathryn , Meyers Bradley W , Pleunis Ziggy , Stairs Ingrid , Tan Chia Min , Yu Tinyau Timothy , Boyle Patrick J , Cook Amanda M , Fonseca Emmanuel , Gaensler B M , Good Deborah C , Kaspi Victoria , McKee James W , Patel Chitrang , Pearlman Aaron B
Published: July 2023

The Canadian Hydrogen Mapping Experiment (CHIME) is a radio telescope located in British Columbia, Canada. The large field of view allows CHIME/FRB to be an exceptional pulsar and rotating radio transient (RRAT) finding machine, despite saving only the metadata of incoming Galactic events. We have developed a pipeline to search for pulsar/RRAT candidates using density-based spatial clustering of applications with noise (dbscan), a clustering algorithm. Follow-up observations are then scheduled with the more sensitive CHIME/Pulsar instrument capable of near-daily high-time resolution spectra observations. We have developed the CHIME/Pulsar Single Pulse Pipeline to automate the processing of CHIME/Pulsar search-mode data. We report the discovery of 21 new Galactic sources, with 14 RRATs, 6 isolated long-period pulsars, and 1 binary system. Owing to CHIME/Pulsar’s observations, we have obtained timing solutions for 8 of the 14 RRATs along with all the regular pulsars and the binary system. Notably, we report that the binary system is in a long orbit of 412 d with a minimum companion mass of 0.1303 solar masses and no evidence of an optical companion within 10″ of the pulsar position. This highlights that working synergistically with CHIME/FRB’s large survey volume CHIME/Pulsar can obtain arc second localizations for low-burst rate RRATs through pulsar timing. We find that the properties of our newly discovered RRATs are consistent with those of the presently known population. They tend to have lower burst rates than those found in previous surveys, which is likely due to survey bias rather than the underlying population.
Finding LoTSS of hosts for GRBs: a search for galaxy–gamma-ray burst coincidences at low frequencies with LOFAR
Authors: Eyles-Ferris R A J , Starling R L C
Published: July 2023

The LOFAR (Low Frequency Array) Two-metre Sky Survey (LoTSS) is an invaluable new tool for investigating the properties of sources at low frequencies and has helped to open up the study of galaxy populations in this regime. In this work, we perform a search for host galaxies of gamma-ray bursts (GRBs). We use the relative density of sources in Data Release 2 (DR2) of LoTSS to define the probability of a chance alignment, Pchance, and find 18 sources corresponding to 17 GRBs that meet a Pchance < 1 per cent criterion. We examine the nature and properties of these radio sources using both LOFAR data and broad-band information, including their radio spectral index, star formation rate estimates, and any contributions from active galactic nucleus emission. Assuming that the radio emission is dominated by star formation, we find that our sources show high star formation rates (101–103 M⊙ yr−1) compared with both a field galaxy sample and a sample of core-collapse supernova hosts, and the majority of putative hosts are consistent with ultra-luminous infrared galaxy classifications. As a result of our analyses, we define a final sample of eight likely GRB host candidates in the LoTSS DR2 survey.
A sample of fast radio bursts discovered and localized with MeerTRAP at the MeerKAT telescope
Authors: Jankowski F , Bezuidenhout M C , Caleb M , Driessen L N , Malenta M , Morello V , Rajwade K M , Sanidas S , Stappers B W , Surnis M P , Barr E D , Chen W , Kramer M , Wu J , Buchner S , Serylak M , Prochaska J Xavier
Published: July 2023

We present a sample of well-localized fast radio bursts (FRBs) discovered by the MeerTRAP project at the MeerKAT telescope in South Africa. We discovered the three FRBs in single coherent tied-array beams and localized them to an area of ∼1 arcmin2. We investigate their burst properties, scattering, repetition rates, and localizations in a multiwavelength context. FRB 20201211A shows hints of scatter broadening but is otherwise consistent with instrumental dispersion smearing. For FRB 20210202D, we discovered a faint post-cursor burst separated by ∼200 ms, suggesting a distinct burst component or a repeat pulse. We attempt to associate the FRBs with host galaxy candidates. For FRB 20210408H, we tentatively (0.35–0.53 probability) identify a compatible host at a redshift ∼0.5. Additionally, we analyse the MeerTRAP survey properties, such as the survey coverage, fluence completeness, and their implications for the FRB population. Based on the entire sample of 11 MeerTRAP FRBs discovered by the end of 2021, we estimate the FRB all-sky rates and their scaling with the fluence threshold. The inferred FRB all-sky rates at 1.28 GHz are $8.2_{-4.6}^{+8.0}$ and $2.1_{-1.1}^{+1.8} \times 10^3 \: \text{sky}^{-1} \: \text{d}^{-1}$ above 0.66 and 3.44 Jy ms for the coherent and incoherent surveys, respectively. The scaling between the MeerTRAP rates is flatter than at higher fluences at the 1.4σ level. There seems to be a deficit of low-fluence FRBs, suggesting a break or turn-over in the rate versus fluence relation below 2 Jy ms. We speculate on cosmological or progenitor-intrinsic origins. The cumulative source counts within our surveys appear consistent with the Euclidean scaling.
Rotation measure variations in Galactic Centre pulsars
Authors: Abbate F , Noutsos A , Desvignes G , Wharton R S , Torne P , Kramer M , Eatough R P , Karuppusamy R , Liu K , Shao L , Wongphechauxsorn J
Published: July 2023

We report the results of an observational campaign using the Effelsberg 100-m telescope of the pulsars J1746−2849, J1746−2850, J1746−2856, and J1745−2912 located in the central molecular zone (CMZ) close to the Galactic Centre in order to study rotation measure (RM) variations. We report for the first time the RM value of PSR J1746−2850 to be −12234 ± 181 rad m−2. This pulsar shows significant variations of RM of 300–400 rad m−2 over the course of months to years that suggest a strongly magnetized environment. The structure function analysis of the RM of PSR J1746−2850 revealed a steep power-law index of $1.87_{-0.3}^{+0.4}$ comparable to the value expected for isotropic turbulence. This pulsar also showed large dispersion measure (DM) variation of ∼50 pc cm−3 in an event lasting a few months where the RM increased by ∼200 rad m−2. The large difference in RM between PSR J1746−2849 and PSR J1746−2850 despite the small angular separation reveals the presence of a magnetic field of at least 70 μG in the CMZ and can explain the lack of polarization in the radio images of the region. These results contribute to our understanding of the magnetic field in the CMZ and show similarities between the RM behaviours of these pulsars and some fast radio bursts.
Hα kinematics of superbubbles and supernova remnants of the dwarf galaxy NGC 4214
Authors: Sánchez-Cruces M , Rosado M
Published: July 2023

We analysed the ionized gas kinematics of the dwarf galaxy NGC 4214 using high resolution Fabry–Perot interferometry observations and present a set of narrowband images in the Hα, [S ii] λ6717 Å, [N ii] λ6584 Å, and [O iii] λ5007 Å emission lines. The high-resolution Fabry–Perot observations of the Hα emission line, allowed us to derive the velocity field, the velocity dispersion σ, and the rotation curve of the galaxy. We also present for the first time, 3D kinematic maps of the complexes NGC 4214-I and NGC 4214-II and analysed the kinematics of the ionized gas of two new superbubbles, as well as the supernova remnants previously detected in this galaxy by other authors, in radio, optical, and X-ray emission. We computed the expansion velocities of the superbubbles and supernova remnants fitting their velocity profiles and obtained their respective physical parameters. We found that the superbubbles have an expansion velocity of ∼50 km s −1, dynamical age about ∼2 Myr and wind luminosity LW of ∼9 × 1038 erg s−1 produced probably by massive stars in OB associations. For supernova remnants, their expansion velocities are between ∼48 and ∼80 km s−1 with ages of about 104 yr and kinetic energy of about 1051 erg assuming they are in the radiative phase of evolution.
Active galactic nuclei feedback in an elliptical galaxy (III): the impacts and fate of cosmological inflow
Authors: Zhu Bocheng , Yuan Feng , Ji Suoqing , Peng Yingjie , Ho Luis C , Ostriker Jeremiah P , Ciotti Luca
Published: July 2023

The cosmological inflow of a galaxy is speculated to be able to enter the galaxy and enhance the star formation rate (SFR) and black hole accretion rate (BHAR). In this paper, by performing high-resolution hydrodynamic simulations in the framework of macer, we investigate the fate of the inflow and its impacts on the evolution of a massive elliptical galaxy. The inflow properties are adopted from the cosmological simulation IllustrisTNG. We find that the inflow gas hardly enters but is blocked beyond ∼20 kpc from the central galaxy and becomes part of the circumgalactic medium (CGM). The gas pressure gradient, mainly contributed by the thermalized stellar wind and subdominant contributed by the energy input from the active galactic nuclei (AGNs), balances gravity and prevents the inflow from entering the galaxy. The SFR and BHAR are almost not affected by the normal inflow. However, if the rate of cosmological inflow were increased by a factor of 3, a small fraction of the inflow would enter the galaxy and contribute about 10 per cent of the gas in the galaxy. In this case, the gas density in the galaxy would increase by a factor of $\gtrsim$20. This increase is not because of the additional gas supply by the inflow but due to the increase of gas density and pressure in the CGM caused by the inflow. Consequently, the SFR and BHAR would increase by a factor of ∼5 and ∼1000, respectively. Finally, AGN feedback can perturb the motion of the inflow and heat the CGM through its intermittent outbursts.
Mining for a new class of fungal natural products: the evolution, diversity, and distribution of isocyanide synthase biosynthetic gene clusters
Authors: Nickles Grant R , Oestereicher Brandon , Keller Nancy P , Drott Milton T
Published: July 2023

The products of non-canonical isocyanide synthase (ICS) biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) mediate pathogenesis, microbial competition, and metal-homeostasis through metal-associated chemistry. We sought to enable research into this class of compounds by characterizing the biosynthetic potential and evolutionary history of these BGCs across the Fungal Kingdom. We amalgamated a pipeline of tools to predict BGCs based on shared promoter motifs and located 3800 ICS BGCs in 3300 genomes, making ICS BGCs the fifth largest class of specialized metabolites compared to canonical classes found by antiSMASH. ICS BGCs are not evenly distributed across fungi, with evidence of gene-family expansions in several Ascomycete families. We show that the ICS dit1/2 gene cluster family (GCF), which was prior only studied in yeast, is present in ∼30% of all Ascomycetes. The dit variety ICS exhibits greater similarity to bacterial ICS than other fungal ICS, suggesting a potential convergence of the ICS backbone domain. The evolutionary origins of the dit GCF in Ascomycota are ancient and these genes are diversifying in some lineages. Our results create a roadmap for future research into ICS BGCs. We developed a website (https://isocyanides.fungi.wisc.edu/) that facilitates the exploration and downloading of all identified fungal ICS BGCs and GCFs.
RNA helicase DDX6 and scaffold protein GW182 in P-bodies promote biogenesis of stress granules
Authors: Majerciak Vladimir , Zhou Tongqing , Kruhlak Michael J , Zheng Zhi-Ming
Published: July 2023

Two prominent cytoplasmic RNA granules, ubiquitous RNA-processing bodies (PB) and inducible stress granules (SG), regulate mRNA translation and are intimately related. In this study, we found that arsenite (ARS)-induced SG formed in a stepwise process is topologically and mechanically linked to PB. Two essential PB components, GW182 and DDX6, are repurposed under stress to play direct but distinguishable roles in SG biogenesis. By providing scaffolding activities, GW182 promotes the aggregation of SG components to form SG bodies. DEAD-box helicase DDX6 is also essential for the proper assembly and separation of PB from SG. DDX6 deficiency results in the formation of irregularly shaped ‘hybrid’ PB/SG granules with accumulated components of both PB and SG. Wild-type DDX6, but not its helicase mutant E247A, can rescue the separation of PB from SG in DDX6KO cells, indicating a requirement of DDX6 helicase activity for this process. DDX6 activity in biogenesis of both PB and SG in the cells under stress is further modulated by its interaction with two protein partners, CNOT1 and 4E-T, of which knockdown affects the formation of both PB and also SG. Together, these data highlight a new functional paradigm between PB and SG biogenesis during the stress.
An S-band cryogenic phased array feed for radio astronomy
Authors: McCulloch Mark A , D’Cruze Michael , Grainge Keith , Keith Michael , Melhuish Simon
Published: July 2023

We describe the design and ground testing of a prototype S-band cryogenic phased array feed. The feed uses 6-mm thick solid aluminium Vivaldi antennas, which were designed using a commercial electromagnetic simulation software. The antennas are designed for easy removal and 40 of them have been integrated into an array. The return loss, inter-element coupling, and beam patterns have been tested at room temperature and found to agree with simulations. For cryogenic testing the array has been combined with an existing analogue receiver chain and integrated into an cryostat. When tested at 30 K in aperture array mode the system was found to possess a minimum receiver temperature of 12 K. Increasing the number of elements and combining the array with a beam former would make it a suitable phased array feed for radio-astronomy applications.
Novel phosphate binder oxylanthanum carbonate effectively reduced serum and urine phosphorus concentrations in animal models
Authors: Gupta Pramod , Khare Atul , Reddy Guru
Published: July 2023

Objectives

Over 40% of dialysis patients have above-target phosphate. The efficacy and safety of oxylanthanum carbonate (OLC), a novel phosphate binder that forms the same insoluble phosphate complex as lanthanum carbonate, were assessed in two animal models.

Methods

Three groups of nephrectomized cats (n = 4 per group) received 0.0466 g OLC/kg body weight, 0.233 g OLC/kg body weight, or placebo. Six groups of rats (n = 6 per group) received placebo or 0.049, 0.099, 0.197, 0.394 or 0.788 g OLC/day. Endpoints included phosphate concentrations (urine, faecal and plasma) and serum lanthanum concentrations. All animals were observed for tolerance, injury and mortality.

Key findings

In cats, urine phosphorus concentrations decreased across treatment groups and faecal phosphorus excretion increased in higher dose groups compared to control and lower dose groups. A clear but non-significant decline in plasma phosphate was observed. In rats, urine phosphorus concentrations also decreased in all groups. The majority of serum lanthanum concentrations for rats in treatment groups were not significantly different from those in control groups. The study drug was well tolerated in both models.

Conclusions

OLC was effective for phosphate management and efficacy may be dose dependent. OLC was safe and well tolerated, indicating that it should be evaluated in the target population of patients with hyperphosphatemia.
hucMSCs Treatment Ameliorated Pulmonary Fibrosis via Downregulating the circFOXP1-HuR-EZH2/STAT1/FOXK1 Autophagic Axis
Authors: Li Ruiqiong , Zhang Haitong , Zhang Jinjin , Ji Yunxia , Liu Wenbo , Liu Weili , Wang Meirong , Lv Changjun , Song Xiaodong , Li Hongbo , Li Minge
Published: July 2023

This study was performed to determine the effect of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hucMSCs) treatment on pulmonary fibrosis and investigate the circFOXP1-mediated autophagic mechanism of hucMSCs treatment. Pulmonary fibrosis models were established by spraying bleomycin in mice and TGF-β1 treatment of MRC-5 cells. Results showed that hucMSCs were retained in lung and hucMSCs treatment alleviated pulmonary fibrosis. Morphological staining indicated that hucMSCs-treated mice had thinner alveolar walls, effectively improved alveolar structure, significantly reduced alveolar inflammation, and decreased collagen deposition than control mice. Fibrotic proteins, including vimentin, α-SMA, collagens I and III, and the differentiation-related protein S100 calcium-binding protein A4 was reduced considerably in the hucMSCs-treated group. The mechanistic study revealed that the inhibition of hucMSCs treatment on pulmonary fibrogenesis depended on downregulating circFOXP1, in which hucMSCs treatment promoted circFOXP1-mediated autophagy process via blocking the nuclear human antigen R (HuR) translocation and promoting the HuR degradation, leading to a marked decrease in autophagy negative regulators EZH2, STAT1, and FOXK1. In conclusion, hucMSCs treatment significantly improved pulmonary fibrosis by downregulating the circFOXP1-HuR-EZH2/STAT1/FOXK1 autophagic axis. hucMSCs can act as an effective treatment for pulmonary fibrosis.
Factors Associated with Resilience among MSW Students in the Face of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Carbajal Jose , Schuman Donna L , Ponder Warren N , Bishop Christine M , Hall Amber , Bolton Kristin W
Published: July 2023

COVID-19 continues to affect the general population, and its impact on MSW students is unknown. Therefore, this study aims to examine resilience, attachment, and other mental health constructs among MSW students during COVID-19. U.S. MSW program directors were emailed the electronic surveys to distribute to their MSW students. Authors evaluated the bivariate relationship between the variables and conducted a multiple hierarchical regression predicting resilience. The findings suggest that individuals with higher levels of resilience have lower levels of depression and PTSD. Finally, attachment avoidance, attachment anxiety, and self-efficacy were statistically significant predictors of resilience in the hierarchical regression. This study adds to the literature on how MSW students have been impacted by COVID-19 stressors and the role resilience, self-efficacy, and attachment styles have in terms of mental health outcomes during the pandemic. These results are important when considering interventions to assist MSW students during and after the pandemic, especially regarding stress reduction and student success.
GSK-3β and β-Catenin Signaling Pathway is Involved in Myofibroblast Transition of Ligamentum Flavum in Lumbar Spinal Stenosis Patients
Authors: Shin Hong Kyung , Seo Kyung Jin , Lee Jee Youn , Jeon Sang Ryong , Yune Tae Young
Published: July 2023

Study Design.

Histologic analysis of the ligamentum flavum (LF) in the lumbar spine.

Objective.

The objective of this study is to investigate the levels of glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) and β-catenin in the LF tissue of patients with lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS).

Summary of Background Data.

The hypertrophy of the LF is the primary cause of the progression of LSS. Recently, Wnt signaling has been proposed as one of the molecular processes contributing to LF hypertrophy. GSK-3β and β-catenin are recognized to play a crucial part in the control of this signaling pathway.

Materials and Methods.

From May 2020 to July 2022, LF from 51 LSS patients (LSS group) and 18 lumbar disc herniation patients (control group) were prospectively collected during surgery. Histologic analysis was investigated to confirm the progression of LF fibrosis. The levels of α-smooth muscle actin, phosphorylation of GSK-3β (p-GSK-3β; inactive form), and β-catenin were analyzed in LF with Western blot analysis to reveal the GSK-3β/β-catenin signaling pathway. Continuous variables are expressed as mean±SD and compared using the student t test. Categorical variables are compared using the χ2 test or Fisher exact test, as appropriate. To determine the association between p-GSK-3β and LF thickness, the Pearson correlation coefficient was calculated based on the results of Western blot analysis.

Results.

The LSS group was older and had thicker LF than the controls. The LSS group showed increased collagen fiber and cellularity than the controls. The levels of α-smooth muscle actin, p-GSK-3β, and β-catenin in the LF of the LSS group were significantly higher than that of the control group. There was a strong positive correlation between p-GSK-3β (Ser9) level and LF thickness in LSS patients (r=0.69, P=0.01).

Conclusion.

This research proposes a molecular mechanism for the pathogenesis of LF hypertrophy in LSS. Specifically, GSK-3β/β-catenin signaling appears to be related to LF hypertrophy in LSS and a positive correlation exists between p-GSK-3β level and LF thickness.

Level of Evidence.

Level 3.
Subclassification of Sanders Maturation Stage 3 Demonstrates Differences in Spine and Total Height Velocity Between 3A and 3B in Patients With Idiopathic Scoliosis
Authors: Hori Yusuke , Kaymaz Burak , Almeida da Silva Luiz C. , Rogers Kenneth J. , Yorgova Petya , Gabos Peter G. , Shah Suken A.
Published: July 2023

Study Design.

A single-center retrospective case-control study.

Objective.

To compare the spine and total height velocity between Sanders maturation stage (SMS) 3A and 3B.

Summary of Background Data.

Identifying SMS 3 is critical for treating growing children because it represents the early phase of rapid adolescent growth. However, there is limited literature available that clearly describes the growth differences between 3A and 3B.

Materials and Methods.

The current study included consecutive patients with idiopathic scoliosis staged SMS 3 from January 2012 to December 2021. T1-S1 spine height, total body height, and curve magnitude were measured at the initial and follow-up visits. In addition to the spine and total height velocity calculated per month, corrected height velocity was estimated for curve magnitude using a validated formula. Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare SMS 3A and 3B outcomes, followed by a multiple linear regression model to evaluate the association of the SMS subclassifications to growth velocity adjusted for confounding factors.

Results.

A total of 204 patients (66% girls, mean age: 12.3±1.3 y) met the inclusion criteria. Patients staged SMS 3A had higher spine height velocity (mm/month) in both girls (2.3 vs. 1.5, P<0.001) and boys (2.6 vs. 1.7, P<0.001), as well as total height velocity [mm/month; (5.8 vs. 4.3, P<0.001 for girls; 6.6 vs. 4.5, P<0.001 for boys]. Corrected velocity showed similar results with greater spine and total height velocity in SMS 3A. Multivariate analysis indicated a significant association of the SMS subclassification to the spine and total height velocity. The scoliosis curve progression was comparable between SMS 3A and 3B.

Conclusions.

SMS 3A and 3B had differential growth velocity in the spine and total body height. These results indicate the importance of the SMS 3 subclassification for managing scoliosis treatment, including observation, bracing, and surgical interventions with fusion and growth modulation.

Level of Evidence.

Level III—case-control study.
Assessment of cheese sign and its association with vascular risk factors: Data from PUMCH dementia cohort
Authors: Huang Xinying , Hou Bo , Wang Jie , Li Jie , Shang Li , Mao Chenhui , Dong Liling , Liu Caiyan , Feng Feng , Gao Jing , Peng Bin
Published: July 2023

Background:

In the clinic, practitioners encounter many patients with an abnormal pattern of dense punctate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) signal in the basal ganglia, a phenomenon known as "cheese sign". This sign is reported as common in cerebrovascular diseases, dementia, and old age. Recently, cheese sign has been speculated to consist of dense perivascular space (PVS). This study aimed to assess the lesion types of cheese sign and analyze the correlation between this sign and vascular disease risk factors.

Methods:

A total of 812 patients from Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH) dementia cohort were enrolled. We analyzed the relationship between cheese sign and vascular risk. For assessing cheese sign and defining its degree, the abnormal punctate signals were classified into basal ganglia hyperintensity (BGH), PVS, lacunae/infarctions and microbleeds, and counted separately. Each type of lesion was rated on a four-level scale, and then the sum was calculated; this total was defined as the cheese sign score. Fazekas and Age-Related White Matter Changes (ARWMC) scores were used to evaluate the paraventricular, deep, and subcortical gray/white matter hyperintensities.

Results:

A total of 118 patients (14.5%) in this dementia cohort were found to have cheese sign. Age (odds ratio [OR]: 1.090, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.064–1.120, P <0.001), hypertension (OR: 1.828, 95% CI: 1.123–2.983, P = 0.014), and stroke (OR: 1.901, 95% CI: 1.092–3.259, P = 0.025) were risk factors for cheese sign. There was no significant relationship between diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and cheese sign. The main components of cheese sign were BGH, PVS, and lacunae/infarction. The proportion of PVS increased with cheese sign severity.

Conclusions:

The risk factors for cheese sign were hypertension, age, and stroke. Cheese sign consists of BGH, PVS, and lacunae/infarction.
Pain management after elective craniotomy
Authors: Mestdagh François P. , Lavand’homme Patricia M. , Pirard Géraldine , Joshi Girish P. , Sauter Axel R. , Van de Velde Marc
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND

Pain after craniotomy can be intense and its management is often suboptimal.

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to evaluate the available literature and develop recommendations for optimal pain management after craniotomy.

DESIGN

A systematic review using procedure-specific postoperative pain management (PROSPECT) methodology was undertaken.

DATA SOURCES

Randomised controlled trials and systematic reviews published in English from 1 January 2010 to 30 June 2021 assessing pain after craniotomy using analgesic, anaesthetic or surgical interventions were identified from MEDLINE, Embase and Cochrane Databases.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Each randomised controlled trial (RCT) and systematic review was critically evaluated and included only if met the PROSPECT requirements. Included studies were evaluated for clinically relevant differences in pain scores, use of nonopioid analgesics, such as paracetamol and NSAIDs, and current clinical relevance.

RESULTS

Out of 126 eligible studies identified, 53 RCTs and seven systematic review or meta-analyses met the inclusion criteria. Pre-operative and intra-operative interventions that improved postoperative pain were paracetamol, NSAIDs, intravenous dexmedetomidine infusion, regional analgesia techniques, including incision-site infiltration, scalp nerve block and acupuncture. Limited evidence was found for flupirtine, intra-operative magnesium sulphate infusion, intra-operative lidocaine infusion, infiltration adjuvants (hyaluronidase, dexamethasone and α-adrenergic agonist added to local anaesthetic solution). No evidence was found for metamizole, postoperative subcutaneous sumatriptan, pre-operative oral vitamin D, bilateral maxillary block or superficial cervical plexus block.

CONCLUSIONS

The analgesic regimen for craniotomy should include paracetamol, NSAIDs, intravenous dexmedetomidine infusion and a regional analgesic technique (either incision-site infiltration or scalp nerve block), with opioids as rescue analgesics. Further RCTs are required to confirm the influence of the recommended analgesic regimen on postoperative pain relief.
Prolonged Exposure to Remdesivir Inhibits the Human Ether-A-Go-Go-Related Gene Potassium Current
Authors: Amarh Enoch , Tisdale James E. , Overholser Brian R.
Published: July 2023

Remdesivir, approved for the treatment of COVID-19, has been associated with heart-rate corrected QT interval (QTc) prolongation and torsade de pointes in case reports. However, data are conflicting regarding the ability of remdesivir to inhibit the human ether-a-go-go-related gene (hERG)-related current. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects remdesivir and its primary metabolite, GS-441524, on hERG-related currents. Human embryonic kidney 293 cells stably expressing hERG were treated with various concentrations of remdesivir and GS-441524. The effects of acute and prolonged exposure on hERG-related current were assessed using whole-cell configuration of voltage-clamp protocols. Acute exposure to remdesivir and GS-441524 had no effect on hERG currents and the half-activation voltage (V1/2). Prolonged treatment with 100 nM and 1 µM remdesivir significantly reduced peak tail currents and hERG current density. The propensity for remdesivir to prolong QTc intervals and induce torsade de pointes in predisposed patients warrants further investigation.
Early Financial Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on U.S. Hospitals
Authors: Li Kate , Al-Amin Mona , Rosko Michael D.
Published: July 2023

Goal:

The COVID-19 pandemic has left a significant impact on hospitals' operations, expenses, and revenues. However, little is known about the pandemic's financial impact on rural and urban hospitals. Our main objective was to analyze how hospital profitability changed during the first year of the pandemic. We specifically studied the association between COVID-19 infections and hospitalizations and county-level variables with operating margins (OMs) and total margins (TMs).

Methods:

We obtained data from Medicare Cost Reports, the American Hospital Association Annual Survey Database, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention/Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (CDC/ATSDR) for 2012–2020. Our final dataset consisted of an unbalanced panel with 17,510 observations for urban hospitals and 17,876 observations for rural hospitals. We estimated separate hospital fixed-effects models for urban and rural hospitals' OMs and TMs. The fixed-effects models controlled for time-invariant differences across hospitals.

Principal Findings:

In our review of the early impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on rural and urban hospitals' profits as well as trends in OMs and TMs from 2012 to 2020, we found that OMs were inversely related to the duration of hospitals' exposure to infections in urban and rural locations. In contrast, TMs and hospitals' exposures had a positive relationship. Government relief funds, a source of nonoperating revenue, apparently allowed most hospitals to avoid financial distress from the pandemic. We also found a positive relationship between the magnitude of weekly adult hospitalizations and OMs in urban and rural hospitals. Size, participation in group purchasing organizations (GPOs), and occupancy rates were positively related to OMs, with size and participation in GPOs relating to scale economies and occupancy rates reflecting capital efficiencies.

Practical Applications:

Hospitals' OMs have been declining since 2014. The pandemic made this decline worse, especially for rural hospitals. Federal relief funds, along with investment income, helped hospitals remain financially solvent during the pandemic. However, investment income and temporary federal aid are insufficient to sustain financial well-being. Executives need to explore cost-saving opportunities such as joining a GPO. Small rural hospitals with low occupancy and low community COVID-19 hospitalization rates have been particularly vulnerable to the financial impact of the pandemic. Although federal relief funds have limited hospital financial distress induced by the pandemic, we maintain that the funds should have been more effectively targeted, as the mean TM increased to its highest level in a decade. The disparate results of our analysis of OMs and TMs illustrate the utility of using multiple measures of profitability.
Advances in the Repair of Palmer type IB TFCC Injuries With Wrist Arthroscopy
Authors: Jin Jianmiao , Liang Kejiong , Wang Luo , Ye Po , Wang Jinzhong , Shi Haifei
Published: July 2023

The triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) is essential for maintaining wrist stability. Injury-caused pain is the primary cause of ulnar wrist pain. The TFCC injury refractory to conservative treatment requires further surgical treatment, and because Palmer type IB tears belong to peripheral injuries due to their proximity to the blood supply area, arthroscopic suture repair has become the preferred surgical method for TFCC injury repair, exhibiting strong healing ability. This study reviewed the anatomy of TFCC, injury classification, and advances in arthroscopic suturing for treating Palmer type IB.
Inpatient Rehabilitation Falls: Comparing Patients With Traumatic Brain Injury Versus Patients With Stroke
Authors: García-Rudolph Alejandro , Wright Mark Andrew , Devilleneuve Emilien Amar , Castillo Eulalia , Opisso Eloy , Tormos Josep María , Hernandez Elena
Published: July 2023

Background:

Cognitively impaired neurological rehabilitation inpatients are at an increased risk for falls; yet, little is known regarding fall risk of different groups, such as stroke versus traumatic brain injury.

Objectives:

To determine if rehabilitation patients' fall characteristics differ for patients with stroke versus patients with traumatic brain injury.

Methods:

This retrospective observational cohort study evaluates inpatients with stroke or traumatic brain injury admitted to a rehabilitation center in Barcelona, Spain, between 2005 and 2021. We assessed independence in daily activities with the Functional Independence Measure. We compared fallen versus nonfallen patients' features and examined the association between time to first fall and risk using Cox proportional hazards models.

Results:

A total of 1,269 fall events were experienced by 898 different patients with traumatic brain injury (n = 313; 34.9%) and stroke (n = 585; 65.1%). A higher proportion of falls for patients with stroke occurred while performing rehabilitation activities (20.2%–9.8%), whereas falls were significantly higher for patients with traumatic brain injury during the night shift. Fall timing revealed completely different behaviors (stroke vs. traumatic brain injury), for example, an absolute peak at 6 a.m. due to young male traumatic patients. Nonfallen patients (n = 1,363; 78.2%) were younger, with higher independence in daily activities scores, and having a larger time since injury to admission; all three were significant fall predictors.

Conclusions:

Patients with traumatic brain injury and stroke showed different fall behaviors. Knowledge of fall patterns and characteristics in the inpatient rehabilitation setting can help design management protocols to mitigate their risk.
Injury and Sociodemographic Characteristics of Intimate Partner Violence in Women in Israel: A Single-Center Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Ben Natan Merav , Masarwa Rawan , Steinfeld Yaniv , Yonai Yaniv , Berkovich Yaron
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND:

Intimate partner violence is a growing public health concern worldwide, and nurses are uniquely positioned to help identify and refer patients for services. Yet, intimate partner violence injury patterns and characteristics often go unrecognized.

OBJECTIVE:

The purpose of this study is to explore injury and sociodemographic characteristics associated with intimate partner violence in women presenting to a single emergency department in Israel.

METHODS:

This retrospective cohort study analyzed medical records of married women injured by their spouse who presented to a single emergency department in Israel from January 1, 2016, to August 31, 2020.

RESULTS:

In total, 145 cases were included, of which 110 (76%) were Arab and 35 (24%) were Jewish, with a mean age of 40. Patients' injury patterns consisted of contusions, hematomas, and lacerations to the head, face, or upper extremities, not requiring hospitalization, and having a history of emergency department visits in the past 5 years.

CONCLUSION:

Identifying intimate partner violence characteristics and patterns of injury will help nurses identify, initiate treatment, and report suspected abuse.
Bringing Trauma Education to the Frontier: Overcoming Distance Barriers Utilizing a Virtual Platform
Authors: McCotter Elizabeth L. , Peterson Alexa L. , Savell Tessa C. , Orr Lanny C. , Besel Jamie M. , Thompson Simon J.
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND:

The American College of Surgeons and state regulations mandate that trauma facilities offer trauma-specific continuing education throughout the region they serve. These requirements come with unique challenges when serving a rural and sparsely populated state. A novel approach to providing education was necessitated by the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, travel distance, and limited local specialists.

OBJECTIVE:

The purpose of this article is to describe the development of a virtual educational program used to improve access to quality trauma education and decrease barriers to obtaining continuing education hours inherent in the region.

METHODS:

This article describes the development and implementation of the Virtual Trauma Education program, which provided one free continuing education hour per month from October 2020 to October 2021. The program reached more than 2,000 viewers and established a method to provide continuous monthly educational offerings throughout the region.

RESULTS:

After the Virtual Trauma Education program implementation, monthly educational attendance increased from an average of 55 to 190. Viewership data indicate that trauma education across our region is far more robust, available, and accessible using a virtual platform. With more than 2,000 views from October 2020 to October 2021, Virtual Trauma Education offerings have spread far beyond regional borders, reaching 25 states and 169 communities.

CONCLUSION:

Virtual Trauma Education delivers easily accessible trauma education and is a program that has proven its sustainability.
Orelabrutinib versus ibrutinib for patients with refractory/relapsed primary central nervous system lymphoma: An efficacy and safety analysis
Authors: Qiao Lijiao , Liu Quanxia , Huang Chunzhou
Published: July 2023

Ibrutinib is reported effective in the management of refractory/relapsed primary central nervous system lymphoma but it has adverse effects. Orelabrutinib has received its first approval for the treatment of refractory/relapsed lymphoma either alone or with chemotherapy in China. The objectives of the retrospective study were to evaluate the efficacy and safety of treatment a combination of orelabrutinib (150 mg/day) and rituximab (250 mg/m2 per week), versus orelabrutinib alone (100 mg twice a day) and ibrutinib alone (560 mg/day) among patients with refractory/relapsed primary central nervous system lymphoma. Patients received 150 mg/day orelabrutinib with 250 mg/m2 rituximab/week (RO cohort, n = 105) or 100 mg twice in a day orelabrutinib (OB cohort, n = 107) or 560 mg/day ibrutinib (IB cohort, n = 117) until intolerable toxicity. Patients of the OB cohort continue treatment(s) for longer time than those patients of the RO and the IB cohorts (P < .05 for both). Overall response rate (complete response + partial response) and disease control rates (complete response + partial response + no signs of progressive response) were higher for patients of the RO cohort than those of the IB cohort (P < .0001 for both). The disease control rate was higher for patients of the OB cohort than those of the IB cohort (P = .0062). The overall response rate was higher for patients of the RO cohort than those of the OB cohort (P = .0188). Progression-free survival (from the initiation of disease treatment(s) to disease progression) of patients of the RO and OB cohorts were higher than those of the IB cohort (P < .0001 for both). Overall survival (from the initiation of disease treatment(s) to death) of the patients of the IB cohort was fewer than those of the RO (P = .0444) and the OB (P = .0163) cohorts. Ibrutinib cause bleeding events, and orelabrutinib caused leukopenia, purpura diarrhea, fatigue, and drowsiness. Rituximab and ibrutinib cause fungal infections, atrial fibrillation, bacterial and viral infection(s), hypertension, and tumor lysis syndrome. A total of 150 mg/day oral orelabrutinib plus 250 mg/m2 intravenous rituximab/week is efficacious and safe for patients with refractory/relapsed primary central nervous system lymphoma (Level of Evidence: IV; Technical Efficacy Stage: 5).
Transvenous embolization using the Amplatzer Vascular Plug II in patent ductus arteriosus concomitant with Stanford type B aortic dissection: A case report
Authors: Woo Jong Hun , Shim Jongjoon , Lee Jae Myeong
Published: July 2023

Rationale:

Thoracic endovascular aneurysm repair (TEVAR) is commonly used to treat Stanford type B aortic dissections. However, coexistence of aortic dissection and patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is an extremely rare phenomenon, and TEVAR alone is insufficient for treatment. Herein, a case of endovascular treatment in a patient with both aortic dissection and PDA is reported.

Patient concerns:

A 31-year-old woman presented to the authors’ hospital with chest pain extending to the back. At presentation, her blood pressure was 130/70 mm Hg. Her father, brother, and uncle were all diagnosed with aortic dissection.

Diagnoses:

Computed tomography (CT) revealed Stanford type B aortic dissection from the aortic arch to the infrarenal abdominal aorta; however, PDA was incidentally identified.

Interventions:

TEVAR was immediately performed. Follow-up CT scan performed 2 months later did not reveal any thrombosis or remodeling of the false lumen, and the PDA remained open. Therefore, an additional PDA embolization procedure was performed using the Amplatzer Vascular Plug II via the transvenous route.

Outcomes:

On follow-up CT performed 6 months after PDA embolization, successful remodeling, and shrinkage of the false lumen were observed, and PDA closure was confirmed.

Lessons:

If Stanford type B aortic dissection and PDA coexist, TEVAR alone may not be a sufficient treatment and additional PDA embolization may be required. In the present case, transvenous embolization of PDA using an Amplatzer Vascular Plug II was safe and effective.
Stereotactic radiosurgery for tumors of the pineal region: A single-center experience
Authors: Zeynal Mete , Karaaslan Burak , Dağli Özlem , Börcek Alp , Kurt Gökhan , Kadioğlu Hakan Hadi , Emmez Ömer Hakan
Published: July 2023

Tumors of the pineal region (TPRs) are rare neoplasms that are surgically challenging to resect. Conventional treatment strategies are available, but gamma knife radiosurgery (GKRS) is an alternative approach. This study presents a single-center experience with GKRS performed for TPR with and without histopathological diagnoses. The cases of 25 patients with TPRs treated with GKRS were retrospectively analyzed. Thirteen of these 25 patients had histopathological confirmation, and 13 had elevated serum alpha-fetoprotein and beta-human chorionic gonadotropin levels. The 25 patients had a mean follow-up duration of 61 months. The total response rate to GKRS was 60%, and a 53.8% decrease in the alpha-fetoprotein and beta human chorionic gonadotropin levels was observed. The findings of this study indicate that GKRS is a safe procedure for TPRs, even in the event of insufficient histopathological findings. This treatment approach provides increased Karnofsky performance scores and an extended life expectancy.