bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Real-world treatment outcomes of patients with penile cancer in the Kyushu–Okinawa area of Japan in the pre-guideline era
Authors: Yamaguchi Takahiro , Goya Masato , Higashijima Katsuyoshi , Tobu Shohei , Sato Ryuta , Tatarano Shuichi , Mukai Shoichiro , Uemura Kei-ichiro , Tatsugami Katsunori , Tsubouchi Kazuna , Shida Yohei , Ishii Tatsu , Sakai Hideki , Matsuoka Hirofumi , Haga Nobuhiro , Eto Masatoshi , Igawa Tsukasa , Kamoto Toshiyuki , Enokida Hideki , Shin Toshitaka , Noguchi Mitsuru , Fujimoto Naohiro , Saito Seiichi , Kamba Tomomi
Published: June 2023

Objectives

To understand the real-world outcomes for patients with penile cancer in the Kyushu–Okinawa area before the introduction of practice guidelines in Japan.

Methods

We retrospectively collected medical information on patients with penile squamous cell carcinoma and penile intraepithelial neoplasia at 12 university hospitals and their affiliated hospitals in the Kyushu–Okinawa area from January 2009 to December 2020. Patients with unknown clinical stage were excluded. Patient background characteristics and survival, as well as pretreatment factors involved in survival, were investigated.

Results

A total of 196 patients were included. Patients with clinical stage 0, I, IIA, IIB, IIIA, IIIB and IV comprised 9.7, 26.0, 22.4, 2.6, 10.7, 14.3 and 14.3%, respectively. The median follow-up was 26 months, and the mean 5-year overall survival and cancer-specific survival rates were 74.3 and 79.8%, respectively. On univariate analysis, tumor diameter ≥ 30 mm, penile shaft tumor, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status ≥ 1, cT ≥ 3, cN ≥ 2 and cM1 were associated with significantly poorer cancer-specific survival. On multivariate analysis, pretreatment factors of cN ≥ 2 (hazard ratio, 32.5; 95% confidence interval, 5.08–208; P = 0.0002), Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status ≥ 1 (4.42; 1.79–10.9; P = 0.0012) and cT ≥ 3 (3.34; 1.11–10.1; P = 0.0319) were identified as independent prognostic factors.

Conclusions

The study revealed basic data for future penile cancer treatment and research, including survival rates according to clinical stages, and identified cN ≥ 2, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status ≥ 1 and cT ≥ 3 at initial diagnosis as independent prognostic factors. Evidence for penile cancer in Japan is particularly scarce, and future large-scale prospective studies are warranted.
Breast density quantitative measures and breast cancer risk among screened Black women
Authors: Mahmoud Mattia A , Ehsan Sarah , Pantalone Lauren , Mankowski Walter , Conant Emily F , Kontos Despina , Chen Jinbo , McCarthy Anne Marie
Published: June 2023

Mammographic density is a strong predictor of breast cancer but only slightly increased the discriminatory ability of existing risk prediction models in previous studies with limited racial diversity. We assessed discrimination and calibration of models consisting of the Breast Cancer Risk Assessment Tool (BCRAT), Breast Imaging-Reporting and Data System density and quantitative density measures. Patients were followed up from the date of first screening mammogram until invasive breast cancer diagnosis or 5-year follow-up. Areas under the curve for White women stayed consistently around 0.59 for all models, whereas the area under the curve increased slightly from 0.60 to 0.62 when adding dense area and area percent density to the BCRAT model for Black women. All women saw underprediction in all models, with Black women having less underprediction. Adding quantitative density to the BCRAT did not statistically significantly improve prediction for White or Black women. Future studies should evaluate whether volumetric breast density improves risk prediction.
Bacillus Calmette–Guérin osteomyelitis of the fifth metatarsal bone in a Japanese infant: a case report
Authors: Morimoto Shota , Iseki Tomoya , Tachibana Toshiya , Futani Hiroyuki
Published: June 2023

Bacillus Calmette–Guérin osteomyelitis is a rare complication following Bacillus Calmette–Guérin vaccination. Here, we describe a rare case of Bacillus Calmette–Guérin osteomyelitis of the fifth metatarsal in a 21-month-old Japanese infant. A 21-month-old Japanese female infant presented with a swollen mass on the dorsolateral aspect of the left foot. Based on physical examination, radiological and histopathologic findings and laboratory results, a diagnosis of Bacillus Calmette–Guérin osteomyelitis of the fifth metatarsal bone was made, and an oral anti-tuberculosis treatment was initiated. However, the mass recurred 10 months after the start of the anti-tuberculosis treatment, so additional surgical debridement was performed. Six months after surgery, clinical findings and plain radiograph images revealed complete improvement of the affected area, and anti-tuberculosis treatment was stopped. Bacillus Calmette–Guérin osteomyelitis of the fifth metatarsal in a 21-month-old Japanese infant was successfully treated with oral anti-tuberculosis therapy and surgical debridement.
Impact of female stress urinary incontinence and related treatments on the sexual function of male partners: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Tian Zhao , Wang Xiuqi , Fu Linru , Du Zhe , Sun Zhijing
Published: June 2023

Background

No conclusions have been reached on whether female stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and related treatments affect male partners’ sexual function.

Aim

To assess the effects of female SUI and related treatments on male partners’ sexual function.

Methods

A comprehensive search of the PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane, and Scopus databases was performed up to September 6, 2022. Studies were included that investigated the effect of female SUI and related treatments on male partners’ sexual function.

Outcome

Male partners’ sexual function.

Results

Of the 2294 citations identified, 18 studies with 1350 participants were included. Two studies assessed the effect of female SUI without treatment on male partners’ sexual function, finding that partners had more erectile dysfunction, more sexual dissatisfaction, and less sexual frequency than partners of women without urinary incontinence. Seven studies directly assessed the effect of female SUI treatments on male partners’ sexual function by surveying the male partners. Among these, 4 assessed transobturator suburethral tape (TOT) surgery; 1 assessed TOT and tension-free vaginal tape obturator surgery; and the remaining 2 assessed pulsed magnetic stimulation and laser treatment. Among the 4 TOT studies, 3 used the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF). TOT surgery significantly improved the total IIEF score (mean difference [MD] = 9.74, P < .00001), along with erectile function (MD = 1.49, P < .00001), orgasmic function (MD = 0.35, P = .001), sexual desire (MD = 2.08, P < .00001), intercourse satisfaction (MD = 2.36, P < .00001), and overall satisfaction (MD = 3.46, P < .00001). However, the improvements in IIEF items may be of unclear clinical significance, as 4 points in the erectile function domain of the IIEF are typically defined as the minimal clinically important difference. In addition, 9 studies indirectly assessed the effect of female SUI surgery on male partners’ sexual function by surveying patients with the Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire. The results demonstrated no significant differences in erectile function (MD = 0.08, P = .40) or premature ejaculation (MD = 0.07, P = .54).

Clinical Implications

The effects of female SUI and related treatments on male partners’ sexual function were summarized for the first time, providing a reference for future clinical practice and scientific research.

Strengths and Limitations

A limited number of studies that used various scales met the standardized eligibility criteria.

Conclusion

Female SUI may affect male partners’ sexual function, and female patients’ anti-incontinence surgery does not appear to have a clinically significant improvement on the sexual function of their partners.
Methamphetamine-induced vaginal lubrication in rats
Authors: Mott Maggie N , Goeders Nicholas E
Published: June 2023

Background

Based on previous studies of vaginal lubrication as well as our own previously reported interview study of women who self-reported methamphetamine (meth)–induced vaginal lubrication, in the current study we sought to determine the potential dose-response relationship leading to meth-induced vaginal lubrication. We also developed an animal model to study the reported effects and examine potential mechanisms mediating this phenomenon.

Aim

We sought to characterize the effects of meth on vaginal lubrication in an animal model with the aim of providing a potential framework for new mechanisms that incorporate novel therapeutic agents for the treatment of vaginal dryness.

Methods

Vaginal lubrication was measured via insertion of a preweighed, cotton-tipped swab into the vaginal canal of anesthetized rats following treatment with various doses of intravenous (IV) meth, up to 0.96 mg/kg, and after additional pharmacological manipulations, including administration of a nitric oxide synthase inhibitor and an estrogen receptor antagonist. Plasma signaling molecules, including estradiol, progesterone, testosterone, nitric oxide, and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide, were measured immediately before and at 9 time points after IV meth administration. Blood was collected via a previously implanted chronic indwelling jugular catheter and analyzed by use of commercially available kits per the manufacturer’s instructions.

Outcomes

Outcomes for this study include the measurement of vaginal lubrication in anesthetized rats following various pharmacological manipulations and plasma levels of various signaling molecules.

Results

Meth dose-dependently increased vaginal lubrication in anesthetized female rats. Meth significantly increased plasma levels compared to baseline of estradiol (2 and 15 minutes after meth infusion) as well as progesterone, testosterone, and nitric oxide (10 minutes after meth infusion). Also, vasoactive intestinal polypeptide decreased significantly compared to baseline for 45 minutes following meth infusion. Our data further suggest that nitric oxide, but not estradiol, is critical in the production of vaginal secretions in response to meth.

Clinical Implications

This study has far-reaching implications for women who are suffering from vaginal dryness and for whom estrogen therapy is unsuccessful, as the investigation has demonstrated that meth presents a novel mechanism for producing vaginal lubrication that can be targeted pharmacologically.

Strengths and Limitations

This study is, to our knowledge, the first performed to measure the physiological sexual effects of meth in an animal model. Animals were anesthetized when they were administered meth. In an ideal situation, animals would be self-administering the drug to recapitulate better the contingent nature of drug taking; however, this method was not feasible for the study reported here.

Conclusion

Methamphetamine increases vaginal lubrication in female rats through a nitric oxide–dependent mechanism.
Effect of folic acid on the sexual function of postmenopausal women: a triple-blind randomized controlled trial
Authors: Asadi Mahnaz , Riazi Hedyeh , Abbasinazari Mohammad , Majd Hamid Alavi , Montazeri Ali
Published: June 2023

Background

There are reports of sexual dysfunction in postmenopausal women, and several treatment recommendations are available.

Aim

To investigate the effect of folic acid on postmenopausal women’s sexual function.

Methods

This triple-blind randomized controlled trial was conducted in Tehran, Iran, in 2020. A sample of 100 postmenopausal women was recruited from comprehensive health centers affiliated with the Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences. Eligible women were randomly assigned to receive folic acid (5 mg) or placebo on an empty stomach every day for 8 weeks. Women were assessed at 3 time points: baseline and 4 and 8 weeks after the intervention.

Outcome

Sexual function was the main outcome, as measured by the Female Sexual Function Index.

Results

The mean ± SD age of participants in the folic acid and placebo groups was 53.2 ± 3.84 and 54.4 ± 4.05 years, respectively (P = .609). The results obtained from mixed effects analysis of variance revealed a statistically significant difference between baseline and posttreatment scores and the interaction between time and group for desire, orgasm, satisfaction, arousal, pain, and total sexual function score, with the folic acid group improving more than control group. Lubrication was the only domain that showed no significant difference for the interaction between time and group.

Clinical Implications

Folic acid may beneficially affect sexual function in postmenopausal women.

Strengths and Limitations

Strengths include the novelty of the subject, the triple-blind design, the block randomization, the administration of a standard scale for sexual function (Female Sexual Function Index), and the affordability and availability of folic acid. This study was conducted with a small sample size and short follow-up time; therefore, interpretation of the results requires great caution.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that folic acid possibly improves sexual function in postmenopausal women. Larger studies are needed to confirm the findings.

Trial Registration

IRCT20150128020854N8; August 2, 2020. Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials; https://en.irct.ir/user/trial/48920/view.
Travel-related respiratory symptoms and infections in travellers (2000–22): a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Lovey Thibault , Hasler Robin , Gautret Philippe , Schlagenhauf Patricia
Published: June 2023

Background

Respiratory tract infections (RTIs) are common in travellers due to the year-round or seasonal presence of respiratory pathogen and exposure to crowded environments during the itinerary. No study has systematically examined the burden of RTI infections among travellers. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to evaluate the prevalence of RTIs and symptoms suggestive of RTIs among travellers according to risk groups and/or geographic region, and to describe the spectrum of RTIs.

Methods

The systematic review and meta-analysis was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42022311261). We searched Medline, Embase, Scopus, Cochrane Central, Web of Science, Science Direct and preprint servers MedRxiv, BioRxiv, SSRN and IEEE Xplore on 1 February 2022. Studies reporting RTIs or symptoms suggestive of RTIs in international travellers after 1 January 2000 were eligible. Data appraisal and extraction were performed by two authors, and proportional meta-analyses were used to obtain estimates of the prevalence of respiratory symptoms and RTIs in travellers and predefined risk groups.

Findings

A total of 429 articles on travellers’ illness were included. Included studies reported 86 841 symptoms suggestive of RTIs and 807 632 confirmed RTIs. Seventy-eight percent of reported respiratory symptoms and 60% of RTIs with available location data were acquired at mass gatherings events. Cough was the most common symptom suggestive of respiratory infections, and the upper respiratory tract was the most common site for RTIs in travellers. The prevalence of RTIs and respiratory symptoms suggestive of RTIs were 10% [8%; 14%] and 37% [27%; 48%], respectively, among travellers. Reporting of RTIs in travellers denoted by publication output was found to correlate with global waves of new respiratory infections.

Interpretation

This study demonstrates a high burden of RTIs among travellers and indicates that travellers’ RTIs reflect respiratory infection outbreaks. These findings have important implications for understanding and managing RTIs among travellers.
The microbiological diagnostic performance of metagenomic next-generation sequencing in patients with infectious diseases
Authors: Yuan Lei , Zhu Qing , Chen Qiang , Lai Lan Min , Liu Peng , Liu Yang
Published: June 2023

Objective

Metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) can be used to detect pathogens in clinical infectious diseases through the sequencing analysis of microbial and host nucleic acids in clinical samples. This study aimed to assess the diagnostic performance of mNGS in patients with infections.

Methods

In this study, 641 patients with infectious diseases were enrolled. These patients simultaneously underwent pathogen detection by both mNGS and microbial culture. Through statistical analysis, we judged the diagnostic performance of mNGS and microbial culture on different pathogens. 

Results

Among 641 patients, 276 cases of bacteria and 95 cases of fungi were detected by mNGS, whereas 108 cases of bacteria and 41 cases of fungi were detected by traditional cultures. Among all mixed infections, combined bacterial and viral infections were the highest (51%, 87/169), followed by combined bacterial with fungal infections (16.57%, 28/169) and mixed bacterial, fungal, and viral infections (13.61%, 23/169). Among all sample types, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) samples had the highest positive rate (87.8%, 144/164), followed by sputum (85.4%, 76/89) and blood samples (61.2%, 158/258). For the culture method, sputum samples had the highest positive rate (47.2%, 42/89), followed by BALF (37.2%, 61/164). The positive rate of mNGS was 69.89% (448/641), which was significantly higher than that of traditional cultures (22.31% [143/641]) (P < .05).

Conclusions

Our results show that mNGS is an effective tool for the rapid diagnosis of infectious diseases. Compared with traditional detection methods, mNGS also showed obvious advantages in mixed infections and infections with uncommon pathogens.
Red cell distribution width-to-albumin ratio is a predictor of survival in hepatitis B virus–associated decompensated cirrhosis
Authors: Mao WeiLin , Yuan ManChun , He Xia , Zhang Qiu
Published: June 2023

Objective

The aim of this study was to ascertain whether red cell distribution width-to-albumin ratio (RAR) is associated with survival in hepatitis B virus (HBV)–associated decompensated cirrhosis (DC) patients.

Methods

A cohort of 167 patients with confirmed HBV-DC was enrolled in our study. Demographic characteristics and laboratory data were obtained. The main endpoint was mortality at 30 days. The receiver operating characteristic curve and multivariable regression analysis were used to assess the power of RAR for predicting prognosis.

Results

Mortality at 30 days was 11.4% (19/167). The RAR levels were higher in the nonsurvivors than the survivors, and elevated RAR levels were clearly associated with poor prognosis. Moreover, the predictive powers of RAR and Model for End-Stage Liver Disease score were not obviously different.

Conclusion

Our data indicate that RAR is a novel potential prognostic biomarker of mortality in HBV-DC.
Comprehensive genomic analysis of the potential limitations of several published PCR primers targeting prfA-virulence gene cluster in Listeria species
Authors: Gao R M , Duceppe M-O , Kang M , Naushad S , Ogunremi D , Huang H
Published: June 2023

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is commonly used to detect Listeria monocytogenes, foodborne pathogen. This study conducted in silico genomic analysis to investigate the specificity and binding efficacy of four published pairs of PCR primers targeting Listeria prfA-virulence gene cluster (pVGC) based on Listeria sequences available. We first performed comprehensive genomic analyses of the pVGC, the main pathogenicity island in Listeria spp. In total, 2961 prfA, 642 plcB, 629 mpl, and 1181 hlyA gene sequences were retrieved from the NCBI database. Multiple sequence alignments and phylogenetic trees were generated using unique (non-identical or not-shared) sequences of each represented genes, targeting four pairs of PCR primers published previously, namely 202 prfA, 82 plcB, 150 mpl, and 176 hlyA unique gene sequences. Only the hlyA gene showed strong (over 94%) primer mapping results, while prfA, plcB, and mpl genes showed weak (<50%) matching results. In addition, nucleotide variations were observed at the 3′ end of the primers, indicating non-binding to the targets could potentially cause false-negative results. Thus, we propose designing degenerate primers or multiple PCR primers based on as many isolates as possible to minimize the false-negative risk and reach the aim of low tolerable limits of detection.
Protothecosis in Veterinary Medicine: a minireview
Authors: Ely Valessa Lunkes , Espindola Julia Pires , Barasuol Bibiana Martins , Sangioni Luís Antônio , Pereira Daniela Brayer , Botton Sônia de Avila
Published: June 2023

Protothecosis is an important infection caused by Prototheca spp., an alga that affect humans and animals. Prototheca spp. infections determine losses of production and quality of life for the affected animals. In this disease, prevention and early diagnosis are essential to avoid the spread of the agent to susceptible hosts. This review aimed to assemble the reported cases of protothecosis in Veterinary Medicine, highlighting Prototheca species involved in the infections, the main animal species affected, as well as the clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and treatment. Our findings showed that protothecosis has been reported in various domestic and wild animal species, presenting diverse clinical manifestations, including mastitis in cows, respiratory manifestations in goats and cats, and a wide range of clinical signs in dogs. The clinical diagnosis and treatment of Prototheca spp. infections are difficult and infected animals are frequently discarded or euthanized. Due to the importance of this infection, protothecosis must be considered an important differential diagnosis in routine clinical Veterinary Medicine.
Novelspatype and antimicrobial resistance gene profiles ofStaphylococcus aureusstrains isolated from bovine mastitis in Jordan
Authors: Gharaibeh Mohammad H , Abu-Qatouseh Luay F , Mashaqbah Sulieman A , Assaf Shehab-Aldeen J , Al Qudsi Farah R
Published: June 2023

Staphylococcu aureus is the most prevalent microorganism associated with mastitis in cattle. This study was designed to determine the spa types of Staph. aureus and to assess the resistance genes profile of isolated strains in dairy farms in Jordan. In total, 747 milk samples of cattle suffering from subclinical mastitis were collected from 37 dairy farms and tested for Staph. aureus. To detect antimicrobial resistance genes, all 219 strains of Staph. aureus were tested. Furthermore, 21 isolates of Staph. aureus were typed using spa typing. As a result, different proportions of resistance genes were found for Staph. aureus. High resistance genes were in tetK 100%, blaZ 99%, and tetM 97%. Moderate resistance genes were in aac(6′)/aph(2′′ 52%, ant(4′)-Ia 48%, and ermC 41%. Low resistance genes were in ermA is 24%, aph(3′)-III is 15%, and mecA is 15%. The spa typing of 21 isolates revealed six spa types, of which five were previously known. For the first time, a novel spa type (t17158) was identified as the main cause of mastitis in dairy cows in Jordan. The identification of resistance genes and spa types is helpful in determining the most effective treatments for cows and plays a significant role in reducing the transmission of pathogens.
Neural innervation in adipose tissue, gut, pancreas, and liver
Authors: Sun Mengxue , Wan Yongwen , Shi Mengjie , Meng Zhuo-Xian , Zeng Wenwen
Published: June 2023

Efficient communication between the brain and peripheral organs is indispensable for regulating physiological function and maintaining energy homeostasis. The peripheral nervous system (PNS) in vertebrates, consisting of the autonomic and somatic nervous systems, bridges the peripheral organs and the central nervous system (CNS). Metabolic signals are processed by both vagal sensory nerves and somatosensory nerves. The CNS receives sensory inputs via ascending nerves, serves as the coordination and integration center, and subsequently controls internal organs and glands via descending nerves. The autonomic nervous system consists of sympathetic and parasympathetic branches that project peripheral nerves into various anatomical locations to regulate the energy balance. Sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves typically control the reflexive and involuntary functions in organs. In this review article, we outline the innervation of adipose tissue, gut, pancreas, and liver, to illustrate the neurobiological basis of central–peripheral interactions. We emphasize the importance of understanding the functional atlas of neural control of energy metabolism, and more importantly, provide potential avenues for further research in this area.
Some techniques for reasoning automatically on co-inductive data structures
Authors: Peltier Nicolas
Published: June 2023

Some techniques are proposed for reasoning on co-inductive structures. First, we devise a sound axiomatization of (conservative extensions) of such structures, thus reducing the problem of checking whether a formula admits a co-inductive model to a first-order satisfiability test. We devise a class of structures, called regularly co-inductive, for which the axiomatization is complete (for other co-inductive structures, the proposed axiomatization is sound, but not complete). Then, we propose proof calculi for reasoning on such structures. We first show that some of the axioms mentioned above can be omitted if the inference rules are able to handle rational terms. Furthermore, under some conditions, some other axioms may be replaced by an additional inference rule that computes the solutions of fixpoint equations. Finally, we show that a stronger completeness result can be established under some additional conditions on the signature.
On the study of acceptability in weighted argumentation frameworks through four-state labelling semantics
Authors: Bistarelli Stefano , Taticchi Carlo
Published: June 2023

Computational Argumentation provides tools for both modelling and reasoning with controversial information. Abstract Argumentation Frameworks represent the building blocks in this field and allow one to model the relationships between arguments with the ultimate goal of establishing their acceptability. Arguments can be evaluated through sets of criteria, called semantics, which distinguish among various justification states. For example, an argument may be accepted, rejected, ignored or even marked as undecided. This paper considers Weighted Argumentation Frameworks and proposes a novel labelling semantics that differentiates four states and generalizes existing approaches.
Novel Focused Ion Beam Liftouts for Spatial Characterization of Spherical Biominerals With Transmission Electron Microscopy
Authors: Zambare Neerja , Arey Bruce , Qafoku Odeta , Koirala Krishna Prasad , Kovarik Libor , Dohnalkova Alice
Published: June 2023

Focused ion beam (FIB) is frequently used to prepare electron- and X-ray-beam-transparent thin sections of samples, called lamellae. Typically, lamellae are prepared from only a subregion of a sample. In this paper, we present a novel approach for FIB lamella preparation of microscopic samples, wherein the entire cross-section of the whole sample can be investigated. The approach was demonstrated using spherical, porous, and often hollow microprecipitates of biologically precipitated calcium carbonate. The microprecipitate morphology made these biogenic samples more fragile and challenging than materials commonly investigated using FIB lamellae. Our method enables the appropriate orientation of the lamellae required for further electron/X-ray analyses after attachment to the transmission electron microscopy (TEM) grid post and facilitates more secure adhesion onto the grid post. We present evidence of autofluorescence in bacterially precipitated vaterite using this lamella preparation method coupled with TEM selected area diffraction. This innovative approach allows studying biomineralization at the micro to nano scales, which can provide novel insights into bacterial responses to microenvironmental conditions.
Multitechnique Characterization of Pigments Used in Paintings by Léon Pallière
Authors: do Nascimento Campos Guadalupe , Granato Marcus , Middea Antonieta , de Souza Gonçalves Vasques Fernando , da Fonseca Martins Gomes Otavio
Published: June 2023

This study provides a microanalytical characterization of pigment fragments from the painting “Allegory to the Arts” and two portraits, “Rubens” and “Tintoretto,” by Léon Pallière. The fragments were surface-analyzed using several near-surface methods to acquire information on the materials and determine the painting techniques utilized before the restoration. Scanning electron microscopy/energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry (SEM/EDS), Raman spectroscopy coupled to an optical microscope (Raman microprobe), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) revealed organic materials, hydrocerussite (Pb3(CO3)2(OH)2), cerussite (PbCO3), zincite (ZnO), chalcopyrite (CuFeS2), nepheline (K(Na,K)3AlSi4O16), calcite (CaCO3), brookite (TiO2), kinoshitalite (Ba3(Si2Al2)O10(OH)2), hematite (Fe2O3), barium magnesium silicate (Ba2Mg(Si2O7)), and aluminosilicates. Also identified were vermilion/cinnabar (HgS), copper phthalocyanine blue (C32H16CuN8), and mendipite (Pb3Cl2O2), in addition to the use of gold leaf in one of the artworks. SEM/EDS provided information on the chemical composition and surface morphology of the fragments, and XRD revealed crystalline raw materials (minerals or their synthetic analogs) used in the paintings. Raman microprobe was particularly useful in identifying pigments, providing a uniquely specific and sensitive means of identifying inorganic and organic compounds.
The Gulf War Illness and the Iraqi Population’s Forgotten Pain and Suffering
Authors: Moradi Faraidoun
Published: June 2023

Exposure to chemical warfare agents results in long-term biopsychosocial complaints. A recent study has revealed an association between exposure to a low dose of Sarin and Gulf War illness in American veterans from the Gulf War. The prevalence of Gulf War illness has not been studied in the Iraqi population. In light of recent research results, Iraqi chemical warfare agent survivors’ multiple physical and mental illnesses should be highlighted. For this reason, establishing both legislation and medical commissions is most needed.
Two warm Neptunes transiting HIP 9618 revealed by TESS and Cheops
Authors: Osborn H P , Nowak G , Hébrard G , Masseron T , Lillo-Box J , Pallé E , Bekkelien A , Florén H-G , Guterman P , Simon A E , Adibekyan V , Bieryla A , Borsato L , Brandeker A , Ciardi D R , Collier Cameron A , Collins K A , Egger J A , Gandolfi D , Hooton M J , Latham D W , Lendl M , Matthews E C , Tuson A , Ulmer-Moll S , Vanderburg A , Wilson T G , Ziegler C , Alibert Y , Alonso R , Anglada G , Arnold L , Asquier J , Barrado y Navascues D , Baumjohann W , Beck T , Belinski A A , Benz W , Biondi F , Boisse I , Bonfils X , Broeg C , Buchhave L A , Bárczy T , Barros S C C , Cabrera J , Cardona Guillen C , Carleo I , Castro-González A , Charnoz S , Christiansen J , Cortes-Zuleta P , Csizmadia S , Dalal S , Davies M B , Deleuil M , Delfosse X , Delrez L , Demory B-O , Dunlavey A B , Ehrenreich D , Erikson A , Fernandes R B , Fortier A , Forveille T , Fossati L , Fridlund M , Gillon M , Goeke R F , Goliguzova M V , Gonzales E J , Günther M N , Güdel M , Heidari N , Henze C E , Howell S , Hoyer S , Frey J I , Isaak K G , Jenkins J M , Kiefer F , Kiss L , Korth J , Maxted P F L , Laskar J , Lecavelier des Etangs A , Lovis C , Lund M B , Luque R , Magrin D , Almenara J M , Martioli E , Mecina M , Medina J V , Moldovan D , Morales-Calderón M , Morello G , Moutou C , Murgas F , Jensen E L N , Nascimbeni V , Olofsson G , Ottensamer R , Pagano I , Peter G , Piotto G , Pollacco D , Queloz D , Ragazzoni R , Rando N , Rauer H , Ribas I , Ricker G , Demangeon O D S , Smith A M S , Santos N , Scandariato G , Seager S , Sousa S G , Steller M , Szabó G M , Ségransan D , Thomas N , Udry S , Ulmer B , Van Grootel V , Vanderspek R , Walton N , Winn J N
Published: June 2023

HIP 9618 (HD 12572, TOI-1471, TIC 306263608) is a bright (G = 9.0 mag) solar analogue. TESS photometry revealed the star to have two candidate planets with radii of 3.9 ± 0.044 R⊕ (HIP 9618 b) and 3.343 ± 0.039 R⊕ (HIP 9618 c). While the 20.77291 d period of HIP 9618 b was measured unambiguously, HIP 9618 c showed only two transits separated by a 680-d gap in the time series, leaving many possibilities for the period. To solve this issue, CHEOPS performed targeted photometry of period aliases to attempt to recover the true period of planet c, and successfully determined the true period to be 52.56349 d. High-resolution spectroscopy with HARPS-N, SOPHIE, and CAFE revealed a mass of 10.0 ± 3.1M⊕ for HIP 9618 b, which, according to our interior structure models, corresponds to a $6.8\pm 1.4~{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ gas fraction. HIP 9618 c appears to have a lower mass than HIP 9618 b, with a 3-sigma upper limit of <18M⊕. Follow-up and archival RV measurements also reveal a clear long-term trend which, when combined with imaging and astrometric information, reveal a low-mass companion ($0.08^{+0.12}_{-0.05} M_\odot$) orbiting at $26.0^{+19.0}_{-11.0}$ au. This detection makes HIP 9618 one of only five bright (K < 8 mag) transiting multiplanet systems known to host a planet with P > 50 d, opening the door for the atmospheric characterization of warm (Teq < 750 K) sub-Neptunes.
The Alcock–Paczyński effect from Lyman-α forest correlations: analysis validation with synthetic data
Authors: Cuceu Andrei , Font-Ribera Andreu , Martini Paul , Joachimi Benjamin , Nadathur Seshadri , Rich James , González-Morales Alma X , du Mas des Bourboux Hélion , Farr James
Published: June 2023

The three-dimensional distribution of the Ly α forest has been extensively used to constrain cosmology through measurements of the baryon acoustic oscillations (BAO) scale. However, more cosmological information could be extracted from the full shapes of the Ly α forest correlations through the Alcock–Paczyński (AP) effect. In this work, we prepare for a cosmological analysis of the full shape of the Ly α forest correlations by studying synthetic data of the extended Baryon Oscillation Spectroscopic Survey (eBOSS). We use a set of 100 eBOSS synthetic data sets in order to validate such an analysis. These mocks undergo the same analysis process as the real data. We perform a full-shape analysis on the mean of the correlation functions measured from the 100 eBOSS realizations, and find that our model of the Ly α correlations performs well on current data sets. We show that we are able to obtain an unbiased full-shape measurement of DM/DH(zeff), where DM is the transverse comoving distance, DH is the Hubble distance, and zeff is the effective redshift of the measurement. We test the fit over a range of scales, and decide to use a minimum separation of rmin = 25 h−1Mpc. We also study and discuss the impact of the main contaminants affecting Ly α forest correlations, and give recommendations on how to perform such analysis with real data. While the final eBOSS Ly α BAO analysis measured DM/DH(zeff = 2.33) with 4  per cent statistical precision, a full-shape fit of the same correlations could provide an $\sim 2~{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ measurement.
Giant low surface brightness galaxies in TNG100
Authors: Zhu Qirong , Pérez-Montaño Luis Enrique , Rodriguez-Gomez Vicente , Cervantes Sodi Bernardo , Zjupa Jolanta , Marinacci Federico , Vogelsberger Mark , Hernquist Lars
Published: June 2023

Giant low surface brightness (GLSB) galaxies, such as Malin 1 and UGC 1382, contain the largest stellar discs known. GLSB galaxies also often contain large masses of neutral hydrogen (H i). However, these extreme galaxies’ origin and properties remain poorly understood. Using the cosmological simulation IllustrisTNG 100, we identify and select a sample of ∼200 galaxies with extended ($R_{\rm {\rm H\,{\small I}}}\,\gt\, 50$ kpc) and well-defined H i discs, ∼6 per cent of the total galaxies in the same stellar mass range (10.2 < log (M*/M⊙) < 11.6). This GLSB sample is heterogeneous, with mixed galaxy morphologies ranging from the most disc-dominated systems to massive ellipticals. These simulated GLSB galaxies are located in massive haloes ($V_{\max }\, \gt \, 150\ \rm {km\ s^{-1}}$) and their properties, such as total H i content, stellar disc parameters, star formation rate, and rotation curves, agree with observed GLSB galaxies. We construct a paired control sample to contrast with the GLSB galaxies. The GLSB galaxies tend to have large galaxy spin parameters ($40{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ larger) and larger ex situ stellar mass fractions than the paired control. We find evidence that aligned mergers promote the formation of extended discs and that isolated environments help the survival of those discs across cosmic time.
Measuring the X-ray luminosities of DESI groups from eROSITA Final Equatorial-Depth Survey – I. X-ray luminosity–halo mass scaling relation
Authors: Zheng Yun-Liang , Yang Xiaohu , He Min , Shen Shi-Yin , Li Qingyang , Li Xuejie
Published: June 2023

We use the eROSITA Final Equatorial-Depth Survey (eFEDS) to measure the rest-frame 0.1–2.4 keV band X-ray luminosities of ∼600 000 DESI groups using two different algorithms in the overlap region of the two observations. These groups span a large redshift range of 0.0 ≤ zg ≤ 1.0 and group mass range of $10^{10.76}\, h^{-1}\, \mathrm{M}_{\odot } \le M_h \le 10^{15.0}\, h^{-1}\, \mathrm{M}_{\odot }$. (1) Using the blind detection pipeline of eFEDS, we find that 10932 X-ray emission peaks can be cross-matched with our groups, ∼38 per cent of which have a signal-to-noise ratio $\rm {S}/\rm {N} \ge 3$ in X-ray detection. Comparing to the numbers reported in previous studies, this matched sample size is a factor of ∼6 larger. (2) By stacking X-ray maps around groups with similar masses and redshifts, we measure the average X-ray luminosity of groups as a function of halo mass in five redshift bins. We find that in a wide halo mass range, the X-ray luminosity, LX, is roughly linearly proportional to Mh and quite independent to the redshift of the groups. (3) We use a Poisson distribution to model the X-ray luminosities obtained using two different algorithms and obtain the best-fit $L_{\rm X}=10^{28.46\pm 0.03}M_{\rm h}^{1.024\pm 0.002}$ and $L_{\rm X}=10^{26.73 \pm 0.04}M_{\rm h}^{1.140 \pm 0.003}$ scaling relations, respectively. The best-fit slopes are flatter than the results previously obtained but closer to a self-similar prediction.
Near-infrared characterization of ultra-diffuse galaxies in Abell 2744 by JWST/NIRISS imaging
Authors: Ikeda Ryota , Morishita Takahiro , Tsukui Takafumi , Vulcani Benedetta , Trenti Michele , Metha Benjamin , Acebron Ana , Bergamini Pietro , Grillo Claudio , Iono Daisuke , Mercurio Amata , Rosati Piero , Vanzella Eros
Published: June 2023

We present a search and characterization of ultra-diffuse galaxies (UDGs) in the Frontier Fields cluster Abell 2744 at $z$ = 0.308. We use JWST/NIRISS F200W observations, acquired as part of the GLASS-JWST Early Release Science programme, aiming to characterize morphologies of cluster UDGs and their diffuse stellar components. A total number of 22 UDGs are identified by our selection criteria using morphological parameters, down to stellar mass of ∼107 M⊙. The selected UDGs are systematically larger in effective radius in F200W than in Hubble Space Telescope (HST)/ACS F814W images, which implies that some of them would not have been identified as UDGs when selected at rest-frame optical wavelengths. In fact, we find that about one-third of the UDGs were not previously identified based on the F814W data. We observe a flat distribution of the UDGs in the stellar mass–size plane, similar to what is found for cluster quiescent galaxies at comparable mass. Our pilot study using the new JWST F200W filter showcases the efficiency of searching UDGs at cosmological distances, with 1/30 of the exposure time of the previous deep observing campaign with HST. Further studies with JWST focusing on spatially resolved properties of individual sources will provide insight into their origin.
A GALEX view of the DA white dwarf population
Authors: Wall Renae E , Kilic Mukremin , Bergeron P , Leiphart Nathan D
Published: June 2023

We present a detailed model atmosphere analysis of 14001 DA white dwarfs from the Montreal White Dwarf Database with ultraviolet photometry from the GALEX mission. We use the 100 pc sample, where the extinction is negligible, to demonstrate that there are no major systematic differences between the best-fitting parameters derived from optical only data and the optical + UV photometry. GALEX FUV and NUV data improve the statistical errors in the model fits, especially for the hotter white dwarfs with spectral energy distributions that peak in the UV. Fitting the UV to optical spectral energy distributions also reveals UV-excess or UV-deficit objects. We use two different methods to identify outliers in our model fits. Known outliers include objects with unusual atmospheric compositions, strongly magnetic white dwarfs, and binary white dwarfs, including double degenerates and white dwarf + main-sequence systems. We present a list of 89 newly identified outliers based on GALEX UV data; follow-up observations of these objects will be required to constrain their nature. Several current and upcoming large-scale spectroscopic surveys are targeting >105 white dwarfs. In addition, the ULTRASAT mission is planning an all-sky survey in the NUV band. A combination of the UV data from GALEX and ULTRASAT and optical data on these large samples of spectroscopically confirmed DA white dwarfs will provide an excellent opportunity to identify unusual white dwarfs in the solar neighbourhood.
GRB 201015A and the nature of low-luminosity soft gamma-ray bursts
Authors: Patel M , Gompertz B P , O’Brien P T , Lamb G P , Starling R L C , Evans P A , Amati L , Levan A J , Nicholl M , Ackley K , Dyer M J , Lyman J , Ulaczyk K , Steeghs D , Galloway D K , Dhillon V S , Ramsay G , Noysena K , Kotak R , Breton R P , Nuttall L K , Pallé E , Pollacco D
Published: June 2023

GRB 201015A is a peculiarly low luminosity, spectrally soft gamma-ray burst (GRB), with T90 = 9.8 ± 3.5 s (time interval of detection of 90  per cent of photons from the GRB), and an associated supernova (likely to be type Ic or Ic-BL). GRB 201015A has an isotropic energy $E_{\gamma , \rm iso}$$= 1.75 ^{+0.60} _{-0.53} \times 10^{50}$ erg, and photon index $\Gamma = 3.00 ^{+0.50} _{-0.42}$ (15–150 keV). It follows the Amati relation, a correlation between $E_{\gamma , \rm iso}$ and spectral peak energy Ep followed by long GRBs. It appears exceptionally soft based on Γ, the hardness ratio of HR  = 0.47 ± 0.24, and low-Ep, so we have compared it to other GRBs sharing these properties. These events can be explained by shock breakout, poorly collimated jets, and off-axis viewing. Follow-up observations of the afterglow taken in the X-ray, optical, and radio reveal a surprisingly late flattening in the X-ray from t = (2.61 ± 1.27) × 104 s to $t = 1.67 ^{+1.14} _{-0.65} \times 10^6$ s. We fit the data to closure relations describing the synchrotron emission, finding the electron spectral index to be $p = 2.42 ^{+0.44} _{-0.30}$ and evidence of late-time energy injection with coefficient $q = 0.24 ^{+0.24} _{-0.18}$. The jet half opening angle lower limit (θj ≥ 16°) is inferred from the non-detection of a jet break. The launch of SVOM and Einstein Probe in 2023 should enable detection of more low-luminosity events like this, providing a fuller picture of the variety of GRBs.
Universal gravothermal evolution of isolated self-interacting dark matter halos for velocity-dependent cross-sections
Authors: Outmezguine Nadav Joseph , Boddy Kimberly K , Gad-Nasr Sophia , Kaplinghat Manoj , Sagunski Laura
Published: June 2023

We study the evolution of isolated self-interacting dark matter halos using spherically symmetric gravothermal equations allowing for the scattering cross-section to be velocity dependent. We focus our attention on the large class of models where the core is in the long mean free path regime for a substantial time. We find that the temporal evolution exhibits an approximate universality that allows velocity-dependent models to be mapped onto velocity-independent models in a well-defined way using the scattering time-scale computed when the halo achieves its minimum central density. We show how this time-scale depends on the halo parameters and an average cross-section computed at the central velocity dispersion when the central density is minimum. The predicted collapse time is fully defined by the scattering time-scale, with negligible variation due to the velocity dependence of the cross-section. We derive new self-similar solutions that provide an analytic understanding of the numerical results.
Coronal height constraint in IRAS 13224–3809 and 1H 0707–495 by the random forest regressor
Authors: Mankatwit N , Chainakun P , Luangtip W , Young A J
Published: June 2023

We develop a random forest regressor (RFR) machine learning model to trace the coronal evolution in two highly variable active galactic nuclei (AGNs) IRAS 13224-3809 and 1H 0707-495 observed with XMM–Newton, by probing the X-ray reverberation features imprinted on their power spectral density (PSD) profiles. Simulated PSDs in the form of a power law, with a similar frequency range and bins to the observed data, are produced. Then, they are convolved with relativistic disc-response functions from a lamp-post source before being used to train and test the model to predict the coronal height. We remove some bins that are dominated by Poisson noise and find that the model can tolerate the frequency-bin removal up to ∼10 bins to maintain a prediction accuracy of R2 > 0.9. The black hole mass and inclination should be fixed so that the accuracy in predicting the source height is still >0.9. The accuracy also increases with the reflection fraction. The corona heights for both AGN are then predicted using the RFR model developed from the simulated PSDs, whose frequency range and bins are specifically adjusted to match those from each individual observation. The model suggests that their corona varies between ∼5–18 rg, with R2 > 0.9 for all observations. Such high accuracy can still be obtained if the difference between the true mass and the trained value is ${\lesssim}10\ \hbox{per cent}$. Finally, the model supports the height-changing corona under the light-bending scenario, where the height is correlated to source luminosity in both IRAS 13224-3809 and 1H 0707-495.
Effective temperatures of classical Cepheids from line-depth ratios in the H-band
Authors: Kovtyukh V , Lemasle B , Nardetto N , Bono G , da Silva R , Matsunaga N , Yushchenko A , Fukue K , Grebel E K
Published: June 2023

The technique of line depth ratios (LDRs) is one of the methods to determine the effective temperature of a star. They are crucial in the spectroscopic studies of variable stars like Cepheids since no simultaneous photometry is usually available. A good number of LDR-temperature relations are already available in the optical domain; here we want to expand the number of relations available in the near-infrared (NIR) in order to fully exploit the capabilities of current and upcoming NIR spectrographs. We used 115 simultaneous spectroscopic observations in the optical and the NIR for six Cepheids and optical LDRs to find new pairs of lines sensitive to temperature and to calibrate LDR-temperature relations in the NIR spectral range. We have derived 87 temperature calibrations valid in the [4800–6500] K range of temperatures. The typical uncertainty for a given relation is 60–70 K, and combining many of them provides a final precision within 30–50 K. We found a discrepancy between temperatures derived from optical or NIR LDR for pulsations phases close to ϕ ≈0.0 and we discuss the possible causes for these differences. LDRs in the NIR will allow us to spectroscopically investigate highly reddened Cepheids in the Galactic centre or in the far side of the disc.