bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The prognostic value of artificial intelligence to predict cardiac amyloidosis in patients with severe aortic stenosis undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement
Authors: Pereyra Pietri Milagros , Farina Juan M , Mahmoud Ahmed K , Scalia Isabel G , Galasso Francesca , Killian Michael E , Suppah Mustafa , Kenyon Courtney R , Koepke Laura M , Padang Ratnasari , Chao Chieh-Ju , Sweeney John P , Fortuin F David , Eleid Mackram F , Sell-Dottin Kristen A , Steidley David E , Scott Luis R , Fonseca Rafael , Lopez-Jimenez Francisco , Attia Zachi I , Dispenzieri Angela , Grogan Martha , Rosenthal Julie L , Arsanjani Reza , Ayoub Chadi
Published: March 2024

Aims

Cardiac amyloidosis (CA) is common in patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS) undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Cardiac amyloidosis has poor outcomes, and its assessment in all TAVR patients is costly and challenging. Electrocardiogram (ECG) artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms that screen for CA may be useful to identify at-risk patients.

Methods and results

In this retrospective analysis of our institutional National Cardiovascular Disease Registry (NCDR)-TAVR database, patients undergoing TAVR between January 2012 and December 2018 were included. Pre-TAVR CA probability was analysed by an ECG AI predictive model, with >50% risk defined as high probability for CA. Univariable and propensity score covariate adjustment analyses using Cox regression were performed to compare clinical outcomes between patients with high CA probability vs. those with low probability at 1-year follow-up after TAVR. Of 1426 patients who underwent TAVR (mean age 81.0 ± 8.5 years, 57.6% male), 349 (24.4%) had high CA probability on pre-procedure ECG. Only 17 (1.2%) had a clinical diagnosis of CA. After multivariable adjustment, high probability of CA by ECG AI algorithm was significantly associated with increased all-cause mortality [hazard ratio (HR) 1.40, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.01–1.96, P = 0.046] and higher rates of major adverse cardiovascular events (transient ischaemic attack (TIA)/stroke, myocardial infarction, and heart failure hospitalizations] (HR 1.36, 95% CI 1.01–1.82, P = 0.041), driven primarily by heart failure hospitalizations (HR 1.58, 95% CI 1.13–2.20, P = 0.008) at 1-year follow-up. There were no significant differences in TIA/stroke or myocardial infarction.

Conclusion

Artificial intelligence applied to pre-TAVR ECGs identifies a subgroup at higher risk of clinical events. These targeted patients may benefit from further diagnostic evaluation for CA.
Renegotiating Citizenship through the Lens of the ‘People’s War’ in Second World War Britain
Authors: Hammett Jessica , Irving Henry
Published: March 2024

This article re-examines the importance of the ‘people’s war’ by exploring the word history of the phrase. The article shows that the term was widely used and understood on the British home front during the Second World War. Our focus is on how it provided a framework to renegotiate citizenship. Drawing on a wide range of popular newspapers, magazines and life writing, we argue that the ‘people’s war’ was a flexible concept. It was used, on the one hand, to explain extensions to the duties of citizenship and encourage participation, and, on the other, to demand a greater voice, recognition and rewards for citizens. This shaped the lived experience of wartime, and provided a language for ‘ordinary people’, as well as politicians and the press, to articulate their demands in the present and hopes for the future. We argue that the ‘people’s war’ remains an important historical concept. The process of negotiation through the lens of the ‘people’s war’ not only sheds light on wartime experience; it also suggests new ways to think through vernacular understandings of citizenship and the relationship between the people and the state, in the post-war world and beyond.
Self-reported preoperative depressive symptoms and survival after cardiac surgery
Authors: Falk Anna , Sartipy Ulrik , Stenman Malin
Published: March 2024

OBJECTIVES

Depression has been associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to determine whether self-reported preoperative depressive symptoms were associated with worse long-term survival in patients undergoing cardiac surgery.

METHODS

This population-based, observational cohort study included patients who had undergone cardiac surgery at Karolinska University Hospital between 2013 and 2016. Self-reported data about depressive symptoms were collected using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) and other patient data were collected from the institutional surgical database and medical charts. Depression was defined as a PHQ-9 score ≥10. Weighted flexible parametric survival models were used to estimate the association between self-reported preoperative depressive symptoms and all-cause mortality and to quantify absolute survival differences.

RESULTS

Of the 1120 study patients, 162 (14.5%) had depressive symptoms before cardiac surgery. During a mean follow-up of 7.2 years (maximum, 9.2 years), there were 36 deaths in 1129 person-years (PYs) in the depressed group, compared to 160 deaths in 6889 PYs in the non-depressed group. In the adjusted analysis, self-reported depressive symptoms were associated with worse long-term survival (hazard ratio 1.66; 95% confidence interval 1.09–2.54) compared with no reported depressive symptoms. The absolute survival differences (% and 95% confidence interval) between the non-depressed and the depressed patients were –1.9 (–3.9 to 0.19), –5.7 (–11 to –0.01) and –9.7 (–19 to –0.4) after 1, 5 and 8 years, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Self-reported preoperative depressive symptoms were associated with worse long-term survival following cardiac surgery and should be regarded as important as other classical risk factors.
Six-year clinical and computed tomography angiography follow-up after Nexus implantation
Authors: D’Onofrio Augusto , Antonello Michele , Piazza Michele , Gerosa Gino
Published: March 2024

Endovascular aortic arch repair (Ar-TEVAR) with single-branch, off-the-shelf Nexus aortic arch system has shown promising early and 3-year outcomes. There is lack of data regarding long-term results of this specific device, particularly regarding patency of supra-aortic bypasses and stability of the connection between the 2 modules. This case report describes 6-year clinical and imaging follow-up of a 74-year-old patient who underwent Ar-TEVAR with Nexus. Over 6 years, the patient experienced minor complications unrelated to the device. The patency of supra-aortic bypasses and integrity of the device’s connection were confirmed. Computed tomography angiography constantly showed exclusion of the aneurysm and reduction of the aneurysmal sac. In conclusion, although extended research and broader data are needed, this case provides encouraging evidence of long-term results of Ar-TEVAR with Nexus.
Real-world experience with 11C-methionine positron emission tomography in the management of acromegaly
Authors: Haberbosch Linus , MacFarlane James , Koulouri Olympia , Gillett Daniel , Powlson Andrew S , Oddy Sue , Halsall David J , Huynh Kevin A , Jones Jonathan , Cheow Heok K , Spranger Joachim , Mai Knut , Strasburger Christian J , Mannion Richard J , Gurnell Mark
Published: March 2024

Background

L-[methyl-11C]-methionine-positron emission tomography (Met-PET) is a potentially important imaging adjunct in the diagnostic workup of pituitary adenomas, including somatotroph tumors. Met-PET can identify residual or occult disease and make definitive therapies accessible to a subgroup of patients who would otherwise require lifelong medical therapy. However, existing data on its use are still limited to small case series. Here, we report the largest single-center experience (n = 61) in acromegaly.

Methods

A total of 189 cases of acromegaly were referred to our national Met-PET service in the last 12 years. For this analysis, we have reviewed outcomes in those 61 patients managed exclusively by our multidisciplinary team (single center, single surgeon). Referral indications were as follows: indeterminate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI; n = 38, 62.3%), occult residual (n = 14, 23.0%), (radio-)surgical planning (n = 6, 9.8%), and occult de novo tumor (n = 3, 4.9%).

Results

A total of 33/61 patients (54.1%) underwent PET-guided surgery. Twenty-four of 33 patients (72.7%) achieved complete biochemical remission following (re-)surgery. Insulin-like growth factor 1 levels were reduced to <2 × upper limit of normal (ULN) in 6 of the remaining 9 cases, 3 of whom achieved levels of <1.1 × ULN compared with mean preoperative levels of 2.4 × ULN (SD 0.8) for n = 9. Only 3 patients developed single new hormonal deficits (gonadotropic/thyrotropic insufficiency). There were no neurovascular complications after surgery.

Conclusion

In patients with persistent/recurrent acromegaly or occult tumors, Met-PET can facilitate further targeted intervention (surgery/radiosurgery). This led to complete remission in most cases (24/33) or significant improvement with comparatively low risk of complications. L-[methyl-11C]-methionine-positron emission tomography should therefore be considered in all patients who are potential candidates for further surgical intervention but present no clear target on MRI.
Association between sodium–glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors and arrhythmic outcomes in patients with diabetes and pre-existing atrial fibrillation
Authors: Fichadiya Akash , Quinn Amity , Au Flora , Campbell Dennis , Lau Darren , Ronksley Paul , Beall Reed , Campbell David J T , Wilton Stephen B , Chew Derek S
Published: March 2024

Aims

Prior studies suggest that sodium–glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) may decrease the incidence of atrial fibrillation (AF). However, it is unknown whether SGLT2i can attenuate the disease course of AF among patients with pre-existing AF and Type II diabetes mellitus (DM). In this study, our objective was to examine the association between SGLT2i prescription and arrhythmic outcomes among patients with DM and pre-existing AF.

Methods and results

We conducted a population-based cohort study of adults with DM and AF between 2014 and 2019. Using a prevalent new-user design, individuals prescribed SGLT2i were matched 1:1 to those prescribed dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP4is) based on time-conditional propensity scores. The primary endpoint was a composite of AF-related healthcare utilization (i.e. hospitalization, emergency department visits, electrical cardioversion, or catheter ablation). Secondary outcome measures included all-cause mortality, heart failure (HF) hospitalization, and ischaemic stroke or transient ischaemic attack (TIA). Cox proportional hazard models were used to examine the association of SGLT2i with the study endpoint. Among 2242 patients with DM and AF followed for an average of 3.0 years, the primary endpoint occurred in 8.7% (n = 97) of patients in the SGLT2i group vs. 10.0% (n = 112) of patients in the DPP4i group [adjusted hazard ratio 0.73 (95% confidence interval 0.55–0.96; P = 0.03)]. Sodium–glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors were associated with significant reductions in all-cause mortality and HF hospitalization, but there was no difference in the risk of ischaemic stroke/TIA.

Conclusion

Among patients with DM and pre-existing AF, SGLT2is are associated with decreased AF-related health resource utilization and improved arrhythmic outcomes compared with DPP4is.
EU Member State Support to Ukraine
Authors: Haesebrouck Tim
Published: March 2024

The EU and its member states have provided an unprecedented amount of military, humanitarian and financial aid to Ukraine after Russia's attack on February 24, 2022. However, while some EU member states have provided a disproportionately high level of support to Ukraine, other member states committed an unexpectedly low level of aid. This article aims to explain the diverging levels of EU member state support to Ukraine by building on theories of military burden-sharing. Methodologically, it applies the innovative fit robustness procedure of Coincidence Analysis (CNA). The results of the analysis indicate that conditions derived from theories of military burden-sharing can explain support to Ukraine. More specifically, the pattern of support was (mainly) explained by the level of threat that each member state faced from Russia, past military investments and public opinion. Conversely, in contrast to the frequently tested and confirmed exploitation hypothesis, the economic size of the member states did not have an impact on their support to Ukraine.
The Complex Landscape of Structural Divergence Between the Drosophila pseudoobscura and D. persimilis Genomes
Authors: Carpinteyro-Ponce Javier , Machado Carlos A
Published: March 2024

Structural genomic variants are key drivers of phenotypic evolution. They can span hundreds to millions of base pairs and can thus affect large numbers of genetic elements. Although structural variation is quite common within and between species, its characterization depends upon the quality of genome assemblies and the proportion of repetitive elements. Using new high-quality genome assemblies, we report a complex and previously hidden landscape of structural divergence between the genomes of Drosophila persimilis and D. pseudoobscura, two classic species in speciation research, and study the relationships among structural variants, transposable elements, and gene expression divergence. The new assemblies confirm the already known fixed inversion differences between these species. Consistent with previous studies showing higher levels of nucleotide divergence between fixed inversions relative to collinear regions of the genome, we also find a significant overrepresentation of INDELs inside the inversions. We find that transposable elements accumulate in regions with low levels of recombination, and spatial correlation analyses reveal a strong association between transposable elements and structural variants. We also report a strong association between differentially expressed (DE) genes and structural variants and an overrepresentation of DE genes inside the fixed chromosomal inversions that separate this species pair. Interestingly, species-specific structural variants are overrepresented in DE genes involved in neural development, spermatogenesis, and oocyte-to-embryo transition. Overall, our results highlight the association of transposable elements with structural variants and their importance in driving evolutionary divergence.
On the temperature sensitivity of near-surface seismic wave speeds: application to the Groningen region, the Netherlands
Authors: Fokker Eldert , Ruigrok Elmer , Trampert Jeannot
Published: March 2024

Subsurface temperature measurements play a crucial role, for instance, in optimizing geothermal power plants and monitoring heat-storage systems. Previous studies have demonstrated that time-lapse variations in temperature can be correlated with variations in seismic wave speeds, offering the potential for temperature monitoring via seismic surveys. However, an apparent discrepancy has emerged between field and laboratory experiments. Field studies predominantly report positive correlations between temperature and seismic wave speeds, while laboratory experiments often show anticorrelations. This inconsistency underscores the need for a more comprehensive, physics-based understanding of temperature-induced wave speed changes. In this study, we strive to bridge the gap between field and laboratory findings by examining several mechanisms governing temperature-induced seismic wave speed changes, namely the intrinsic temperature dependency of elastic parameters and thermally induced elasticity. We present a physics-based modelling approach to identify the primary mechanisms responsible for temperature-induced seismic wave speed changes. By considering several end-member models, we find that intrinsic temperature dependency of elastic parameters (negative correlation) compete with thermal pressure effects (positive correlation). The precise initial and boundary conditions and physical parameters of the system under consideration will determine the weight of both effects. Temperature-related dilatation does not seem to play an important role. We apply our approach to loosely consolidated sediments in the shallow subsurface of the Groningen region, where subsurface temperature fluctuations are driven by seasonal atmospheric temperature fluctuations roughly between −5 and $30\, ^\circ$C. For these models, we predict seasonal temperature-induced changes in body-wave speeds of up to 8 per cent in the first few metres of the subsurface, high-frequency (above 2 Hz) surface wave phase velocity variations in the range of 1–2 per cent, and relative changes in site amplification on the order of 4 per cent. These findings contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the intricate relationship between temperature and near-surface seismic properties, offering insights for applications as subsurface temperature monitoring systems.
Mpox-Specific Immune Responses Elicited by Vaccination or Infection in People With HIV
Authors: Grüner Eva , Grossegesse Marica , Stern Daniel , Ober Veronica , Eser Tabea M , Reiling Gabriele , Stirner Renate , Ibarra Gerardo , Postel Nils , Conca Raffaele , Dächert Christopher , Grifoni Alba , Sette Alessandro , Bogner Johannes , Seybold Ulrich , Roider Julia
Published: March 2024

In the recent mpox outbreak, people with human immunodeficiency virus (PWH) were at high risk both for contracting infection and for a more severe disease course. We studied cellular and humoral immune responses elicited by mpox infection (n = 5; n = 3 PWH) or smallpox vaccination (n = 17; all PWH) in a cohort of men who have sex with men. All PWH were successfully treated, with stable CD4 counts and undetectable HIV viral loads. Eleven of 17 vaccinated individuals had received childhood smallpox vaccination. In this group of individuals, both 2-dose modified vaccinia Ankara (MVA) vaccination and natural infection evoked mpox-specific immune responses mediated by B cells as well as CD4 and CD8 T cells. This study improves our understanding of smallpox vaccination-mediated cross-reactivity to other orthopox viruses, and long-lasting durability of childhood smallpox vaccination-mediated immune responses, including in PWH.
Effects of a novel dental chew on oral health outcomes, halitosis, and microbiota of adult dogs
Authors: Oba Patricia M , Sieja Kelly M , Schauwecker Amy , Somrak Amy J , Hristova Teodora S , Keating Stephanie C J , Swanson Kelly S
Published: March 2024

Halitosis in dogs is an initial indication of periodontitis, highlighting its significance as a vital marker for underlying problems. Moreover, the oral microbial population has a significant influence on periodontal disease. Measuring the oral microbiota may be used in addition to breath odor, dental plaque, and gingivitis scoring to assess the impact of dental chews on oral health. In this study, we aimed to determine the differences in breath odor, oral health outcomes, and oral microbiota of adult dogs consuming a novel dental chew compared with control dogs consuming only a diet. Twelve healthy adult female beagle dogs were used in a crossover design study. Treatments (n = 12/group) included: diet only (control) or the diet + a novel dental chew. Each day, one chew was provided 4 h after mealtime. On days 1, 7, 14, 21, and 27, breath samples were analyzed for total volatile sulfur compound concentrations using a halimeter. On day 0 of each period, teeth were cleaned by a veterinary dentist blinded to treatments. Teeth were scored for plaque, calculus, and gingivitis by the same veterinary dentist on day 28 of each period. After scoring, subgingival and supragingival plaque samples were collected for microbiota analysis using Illumina MiSeq. All data were analyzed using SAS (version 9.4) using the Mixed Models procedure, with P < 0.05 being significant. Overall, the dental chews were well accepted. Dogs consuming the dental chews had lower calculus coverage, thickness, and scores, lower gingivitis scores, and less pocket bleeding than control dogs. Breath volatile sulfur compounds were lower in dogs consuming the dental chews. Bacterial alpha-diversity analysis demonstrated that control dogs had higher bacterial richness than dogs fed dental chews. Bacterial beta-diversity analysis demonstrated that samples clustered based on treatment. In subgingival and supragingival plaque, control dogs had higher relative abundances of potentially pathogenic bacteria (Pelistega, Desulfovibrio, Desulfomicrobium, Fretibacterium, Helcococcus, and Treponema) and lower relative abundances of genera associated with oral health (Neisseria, Actinomyces, and Corynebacterium). Our results suggest that the dental chew tested in this study may aid in reducing periodontal disease risk in dogs by beneficially shifting the microbiota population and inhabiting plaque buildup.
International investment agreements and the global minimum tax: of treaty troubles and investment incentives
Authors: Beyer Vincent
Published: March 2024

Statutory and effective tax rates have witnessed a marked decline over the past decades, prompting international tax policymakers to grapple with the challenge of tax competition. The latest tool in this struggle is the global minimum tax (GMT). This paper examines the intersection between the GMT and International Investment Agreements (IIAs). It first briefly explains the operation of the GMT and reviews how IIAs address domestic tax measures. It goes on to argue that multinational enterprises (MNEs) affected by the GMT are unlikely to file large numbers of investor-State dispute settlement cases to challenge its implementation. Instead, MNEs will leverage IIAs in seeking to replace corporate income tax incentives captured by the minimum tax with alternative economic benefits. Given how income-tax-based investment incentives are administered in practice, many MNEs could plausibly argue that the withdrawal or undermining of these incentives through top-up taxes violates IIA protection standards. The paper concludes by outlining the potential motivations and options for MNEs seeking to replace tax incentives and the implications for the ongoing global effort to address tax challenges. Ultimately, the GMT’s design means that the race to the bottom is likely to shift elsewhere.
Eosinophils exhibit a unique transcriptional signature and increased sensitivity to IL-3–induced activation in response to colorectal cancer cells
Authors: Itan Michal , Dulberg Shai , Kaminitz Ayelet , Munitz Ariel , Madi Asaf
Published: March 2024

Eosinophils have been mainly studied in allergic diseases and parasitic infections. Nonetheless, eosinophils accumulate in a variety of solid tumors, including colorectal cancer, where their presence is associated with improved prognosis. Eosinophils can promote antitumor immunity through various mechanisms, including direct cytotoxicity toward tumor cells and promoting T-cell activation. However, the mechanisms by which tumor cells regulate eosinophil activities are largely unknown. Herein, we characterized the potential interactions between eosinophils and colorectal cancer cells using an unbiased transcriptomic and proteomic analyses approach. Human eosinophils were stimulated with colorectal cancer cell conditioned media, containing tumor cell secreted factors from multiple cancer cell lines. RNA sequencing analysis identified a “core” signature consisting of 101 genes that characterize a baseline transcriptional program for the response of human eosinophils to colorectal cancer cells. Among these, the increased expression of IL-3Rα and its βc chain was identified and validated at the protein level. Secreted factors from tumor cells potentiated IL-3–induced expression of the adhesion molecule CD11a in eosinophils. Combining proteomics analysis of tumor cell secreted factors with RNA sequencing revealed potential ligand–receptor pairs between tumor cells and eosinophils and the potential involvement of the adhesion molecule CD18 and F2RL3/PAR4. Subsequent functional analyses demonstrated that F2RL3/PAR4 suppresses eosinophil migration in response tumor cell secreted factors. These findings add to the growing body of evidence that eosinophils are conditioned by their local microenvironment. Identifying mechanisms by which eosinophils interact with tumor cells could lead to the development of new immunotherapies for colorectal cancer and other solid tumors.
Specific BCG-related gene expression levels correlate with immune cell infiltration and prognosis in melanoma
Authors: Ren He , He Jiacheng , Dong Jie , Jiang Guoqian , Hao Jianlei , Han Liang
Published: March 2024

Melanoma, caused by malignant melanocytes, is known for its invasiveness and poor prognosis. Therapies are often ineffective due to their heterogeneity and resistance. Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG), primarily a tuberculosis vaccine, shows potential in treating melanoma by activating immune responses. In this study, data from The Cancer Genome Atlas and the National Center for Biotechnology Information Gene Expression Omnibus database were utilized to determine pivotal DEGs such as DSC2, CXCR1, BOK, and CSTB, which are significantly upregulated in BCG-treated blood samples and are strongly associated with the prognosis of melanoma. We employ tools like edgeR and ggplot2 for functional and pathway analysis and develop a prognostic model using LASSO Cox regression analysis to predict patient survival. A notable finding is the correlation between BCG-related genes and immune cell infiltration in melanoma, highlighting the potential of these genes as both biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Additionally, the study examines genetic alterations in these genes and their impact on the disease. This study highlights the necessity of further exploring BCG-related genes for insights into melanoma pathogenesis and treatment enhancement, suggesting that BCG's role in immune activation could offer novel therapeutic avenues in cancer treatment.
MiR-150 levels are related to in-hospital mortality in non-HIV Pneumocystis pneumonia patients
Authors: Zhang Chao , Sun Han , Zhang Qian-Yu , Tong Zhao-Hui
Published: March 2024

Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) is a common opportunistic infection that occurs in immunocompromised patients. Compared with HIV patients, PCP in non-HIV patients tends to follow up a more urgent course and poorer prognosis. Therefore, markers that could predict survival of PCP patients in non-HIV population are of great value. MiRNA-150 has been widely studied in many diseases since it has been identified as a vital regulator of immune cell differentiation and activation. We thus conduct this study aiming to evaluate the prognostic value of miR-150 level in non-HIV PCP. First, the expression levels of miR-150 were compared between PCP patients and healthy volunteers. The miR-150 levels in immune cells were also detected in PCP mouse models. Then the prognostic value of miR-150 was further assessed in another PCP population (n = 72). The expression levels of miR-150 were measured by reverse transcription real-time PCR (RT-PCR) technique. Our data demonstrated significantly decreased miR-150 expression levels in PCP patients and mouse models compared to controls. The miR-150 levels also decreased in various immune cells of PCP mouse models. With a cut-off value of 3.48, the area under the curve, sensitivity, specificity of miR-150 to predicate PCP mortality were 0.845, 68.2% and 96.0%, respectively. In conclusion, miR-150 expression value might serve as a potential biomarker to identify PCP patients at high risk of death.
To test RNLRs−LO3 relation for narrow emission line regions of AGNs through low-redshift Type-2 AGNs in SDSS
Authors: Zhang Xue-Guang
Published: March 2024

Sizes of narrow emission line regions (NLRs) of active galactic nuclei (AGNs) could be estimated by [O iii] line luminosity LO3 through the known RNLRs−LO3 empirical relations. Unfortunately, it is not convenient to test the RNLRs− LO3 empirical relations through structure properties of spatially resolved NLRs of large samples of AGNs. In this manuscript, a method is proposed to test the $R_{\mathrm{ NLRs}}\!\!-\!\!L_{\mathrm{ O3}}^{\sim 0.25}$ empirical relations for AGN NLRs through Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) Type-2 AGNs having few orientation effects on NLR sizes expected by the AGN unified model, after considering sizes Rfib of SDSS fibre-covered regions. Comparing Rfib and RNLRs estimated by LO3, Type-2 AGNs with Rfib > RNLRs (Sample-II) and with Rfib < RNLRs (Sample-I) should have different physical properties of NLRs. Accepting electron density gradients in AGN NLRs, statistically higher electron densities (traced by lower flux ratio RS2 of [S ii] λ6717 Å to [S ii] λ6731 Å) could be expected for the Type-2 AGNs in the Sample-I. Then, through the collected 1062 SDSS Type-2 AGNs in the Sample-I and 3658 SDSS Type-2 AGNs in the Sample-II, statistically lower RS2 for the Type-2 AGNs in the Sample-I can be confirmed with confidence level higher than 5σ, even after considering necessary effects. Therefore, the results in this manuscript can provide strong clues to support that the reported $R_{\mathrm{ NLRs}}~\propto ~L_{\mathrm{ O3}}^{0.25}$ empirical relation is preferred to estimate NLR sizes of SDSS AGNs through SDSS fibre spectroscopic results, and also to support the commonly expected electron density gradients in AGN NLRs.
The classical T Tauri star CI Tau observed with SPIRou: magnetospheric accretion and planetary formation
Authors: Donati J -F , Finociety B , Cristofari P I , Alencar S H P , Moutou C , Delfosse X , Fouqué P , Arnold L , Baruteau C , Kóspál Á , Ménard F , Carmona A , Grankin K , Takami M , Artigau E , Doyon R , Hébrard G ,   the SPIRou science team
Published: March 2024

We report new observations of the classical T Tauri star CI Tau with the SPIRou near-infrared spectropolarimeter and velocimeter at the Canada–France–Hawaii Telescope (CFHT) in late 2019, 2020, and 2022, complemented with observations obtained with the ESPaDOnS optical spectropolarimeter at CFHT in late 2020. From our SPIRou and ESPaDOnS spectra, to which we applied least-squares deconvolution, we infer longitudinal fields clearly modulated with the 9-d rotation period of CI Tau. Using Zeeman–Doppler imaging, we reconstruct the large-scale magnetic topology, first from SPIRou data only in all three seasons, then from our 2020 SPIRou and ESPaDOnS data simultaneously. We find that CI Tau hosts a mainly axisymmetric poloidal field, with a 1 kG dipole slightly tilted to the rotation axis and dark spots close to the pole that coincide with the footpoints of accretion funnels linking the star to the inner disc. Our results also suggest that CI Tau accretes mass from the disc in a stable fashion. We further find that radial velocities (RVs) derived from atomic and CO lines in SPIRou spectra are both rotationally modulated, but with a much lower amplitude than that expected from the putative candidate planet CI Tau b. We confirm the presence of a RV signal at a period of 23.86 d reported in a separate analysis, but detect it clearly in CO lines only and not in atomic lines, suggesting that it likely traces a non-axisymmetric structure in the inner disc of CI Tau rather than a massive close-in planet.
A novel Bayesian approach for decomposing the radio emission of quasars: I. Modelling the radio excess in red quasars
Authors: Yue B -H , Best P N , Duncan K J , Calistro-Rivera G , Morabito L K , Petley J W , Prandoni I , Röttgering H J A , Smith D J B
Published: March 2024

Studies show that both radio jets from the active galactic nuclei (AGNs) and the star formation (SF) activity in quasar host galaxies contribute to the quasar radio emission; yet their relative contributions across the population remain unclear. Here, we present an improved parametric model that allows us to statistically separate the SF and AGN components in observed quasar radio flux density distributions, and investigate how their relative contributions evolve with AGN bolometric luminosity ($L_\mathrm{bol}$) and redshift (z) using a fully Bayesian method. Based on the newest data from LOw-Frequency ARray Two-metre Sky Survey data release 2, our model gives robust fitting results out to $z\sim 4$, showing a quasar host galaxy SF rate (SFR) evolution that increases with bolometric luminosity and with redshift out to $z\sim 4$. This differs from the global cosmic SFR density, perhaps due to the importance of galaxy mergers. The prevalence of radio AGN emissions increases with quasar luminosity, but has little dependence on redshift. Furthermore, our new methodology and large sample size allow us to subdivide our data set to investigate the role of other parameters. Specifically, in this paper, we explore quasar colour and demonstrate that the radio excess in red quasars is due to an enhancement in AGN-related emission, since the host galaxy SF contribution to the total radio emission is independent of quasar colour. We also find evidence that this radio enhancement occurs mostly in quasars with weak or intermediate radio power.
The Hertzsprung progression of classical Cepheids in the Gaia era
Authors: Marconi Marcella , De Somma Giulia , Molinaro Roberto , Bhardwaj Anupam , Ripepi Vincenzo , Musella Ilaria , Sicignano Teresa , Trentin Erasmo , Leccia Silvio
Published: March 2024

A new fine grid of non-linear convective pulsation models for the so-called ‘bump Cepheids’ is presented to investigate the Hertzprung progression (HP) phenomenon shown by their light and radial pulsation velocity curves. The period corresponding to the centre of the HP is investigated as a function of various model assumptions, such as the efficiency of superadiabatic convection, the mass–luminosity relation, and the metal and helium abundances. The assumed mass–luminosity relation is found to significantly affect the phenomenon but variations in the chemical composition as well as in the stellar mass (at fixed mass–luminosity relation) also play a key role in determining the value of the HP centre period. Finally, the predictive capability of the presented theoretical scenario is tested against observed light curves of bump Cepheids in the ESA Gaia data base, also considering the variation of the pulsation amplitudes and of the Fourier parameters R21 and Φ21 with the pulsation period. A qualitative agreement between theory and observations is found for what concerns the evolution of the light curve morphology as the period moves across the HP centre, as well for the pattern in period–amplitude, period–R21, and period–Φ21 planes. A larger sample of observed Cepheids with accurate light curves and metallicities is required in order to derive more quantitative conclusions.
Interplay of stellar and gas-phase metallicities: unveiling insights for stellar feedback modelling with Illustris, IllustrisTNG, and EAGLE
Authors: Garcia Alex M , Torrey Paul , Grasha Kathryn , Hernquist Lars , Ellison Sara , Zovaro Henry R M , Hemler Z S , Nelson Erica J , Kewley Lisa J
Published: March 2024

The metal content of galaxies provides a window into their formation in the full context of the cosmic baryon cycle. In this study, we examine the relationship between stellar mass and stellar metallicity (MZ*R) in the hydrodynamic simulations Illustris, TNG, and EAGLE (Evolution and Assembly of GaLaxies and their Environment) to understand the global properties of stellar metallicities within the feedback paradigm employed by these simulations. Interestingly, we observe significant variations in the overall normalization and redshift evolution of the MZ*R across the three simulations. However, all simulations consistently demonstrate a tertiary dependence on the specific star formation rate (sSFR) of galaxies. This finding parallels the relationship seen in both simulations and observations between stellar mass, gas-phase metallicity, and some proxy of galaxy gas content (e.g. SFR, gas fraction, and atomic gas mass). Since we find this correlation exists in all three simulations, each employing a subgrid treatment of the dense, star-forming interstellar medium (ISM) to simulate smooth stellar feedback, we interpret this result as a fairly general feature of simulations of this kind. Furthermore, with a toy analytic model, we propose that the tertiary correlation in the stellar component is sensitive to the extent of the ‘burstiness’ of feedback within galaxies.
Towards 21-cm intensity mapping at z = 2.28 with uGMRT using the tapered gridded estimator – IV. Wide-band analysis
Authors: Elahi Khandakar Md Asif , Bharadwaj Somnath , Pal Srijita , Ghosh Abhik , Ali Sk Saiyad , Choudhuri Samir , Chakraborty Arnab , Datta Abhirup , Roy Nirupam , Choudhury Madhurima , Dutta Prasun
Published: March 2024

We present a Wide-band tapered gridded estimator (TGE), which incorporates baseline migration and variation of the primary beam pattern for neutral hydrogen ($H\, {\small I}$) 21-cm intensity mapping (IM) with large frequency bandwidth radio-interferometric observations. Here we have analysed $394-494 \, {\rm MHz}$ (z = 1.9–2.6) uGMRT data to estimate the Multifrequency Angular Power Spectrum (MAPS) Cℓ(Δν) from which we have removed the foregrounds using the polynomial fitting (PF) and Gaussian Process Regression (GPR) methods developed in our earlier work. Using the residual Cℓ(Δν) to estimate the mean-squared 21-cm brightness temperature fluctuation Δ2(k), we find that this is consistent with 0 ± 2σ in several k bins. The resulting 2σ upper limit $\Delta ^2(k) \lt (4.68)^2 \, \rm {mK^2}$ at $k=0.219\, \rm {Mpc^{-1}}$ is nearly 15 times tighter than earlier limits obtained from a smaller bandwidth ($24.4 \, {\rm MHz}$) of the same data. The 2σ upper limit $[\Omega _{H\, {\small I}} b_{H\, {\small I}}] \lt 1.01 \times 10^{-2}$ is within an order of magnitude of the value expected from independent estimates of the $H\, {\small I}$ mass density $\Omega _{H\, {\small I}}$ and the $H\, {\small I}$ bias $b_{H\, {\small I}}$. The techniques used here can be applied to other telescopes and frequencies, including $\sim 150 \, {\rm MHz}$ Epoch of Reionization observations.
Integration of a Tobacco Cessation Program into a Rural Community-Based Maternal and Child Health Program in India: A Stakeholders’ Perspective on Task Shifting
Authors: Gupte Himanshu A , D’Costa Marina , Gupta Shilpi , Sonawane Vinayak
Published: March 2024

Introduction

According to the Global Adult Tobacco Survey-2, India, 7.5% of pregnant women are tobacco users with a high prevalence of smokeless tobacco use in rural India. Although pregnant women may receive advice to quit tobacco, lack of knowledge on providing cessation support among healthcare workers results in missed opportunities. Community Health Workers (CHWs) play a significant role in maternal and child health (MCH) programs. Thus, task-shifting for providing cessation support by CHWs was planned and the perceptions and attitudes of concerned stakeholders were explored.

Aims and Methods

A pre-implementation qualitative study was conducted in four states of India within existing rural, community-based MCH program settings. Implementation research frameworks were used to develop data collection tools and for inductive and deductive thematic analysis. In-depth interviews were conducted with stakeholders (n = 28) like coordinators, pregnant women, and village functionaries of the government health system. Four focus groups were conducted with female CHWs (n = 24).

Results

Stakeholders intended to adopt the intervention as objectives of the cessation intervention were aligned with the aims of the MCH program. CHWs related to their role in task-shifting and understood the context for implementing the intervention within the MCH program. Pregnant women expressed openness to receiving cessation support from CHWs acting as a facilitator for task-shifting. Barriers anticipated were the additional workload and time required for CHWs to implement the intervention.

Conclusions

Task-shifting to female CHWs for screening tobacco users, providing brief advice and cessation support within the MCH program was perceived to be acceptable, adoptable, and feasible.

Implications

The study builds insight into the process of developing a grounded approach for the integration of tobacco cessation intervention into a rural, community-based antenatal care setting by task shifting to female CHWs for providing cessation support to pregnant women. The study fills gaps in the literature related to establishing tobacco cessation interventions for pregnant women. The delineated efforts in integration of the intervention and task shifting can be replicated in other developing countries, especially in rural communities within South Asian and Southeast Asian regions having cultural practices, community-based healthcare structures, and tobacco consumption patterns that are comparable to India.
HLA-A*23 Is Associated With Lower Odds of Acute Retroviral Syndrome in Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 Infection: A Multicenter Sub-Saharan African Study
Authors: Lindquist Lovisa , Kilembe William , Karita Etienne , Price Matt A , Kamali Anatoli , Kaleebu Pontiano , Tang Jianming , Allen Susan , Hunter Eric , Gilmour Jill , Rowland-Jones Sarah L , Sanders Eduard J , Hassan Amin S , Esbjörnsson Joakim
Published: March 2024

The role of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I and killer immunoglobulin-like receptor molecules in mediating acute retroviral syndrome (ARS) during human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection is unclear. Among 72 sub-Saharan African adults, HLA-A*23 was associated with lower odds of ARS (adjusted odds ratio, 0.10 [95% confidence interval, .01–.48]; P = .009), which warrants further studies to explore its role on HIV-1–specific immunopathogenesis.
The Burden of Invasive Fungal Disease Following Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-Cell Therapy and Strategies for Prevention
Authors: Little Jessica S , Kampouri Eleftheria , Friedman Daniel Z , McCarty Todd , Thompson George R , Kontoyiannis Dimitrios P , Vazquez Jose , Baddley John W , Hammond Sarah P
Published: March 2024

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy is a novel immunotherapy approved for the treatment of hematologic malignancies. This therapy leads to a variety of immunologic deficits that could place patients at risk for invasive fungal disease (IFD). Studies assessing IFD in this setting are limited by inconsistent definitions and heterogeneity in prophylaxis use, although the incidence of IFD after CAR T-cell therapy, particularly for lymphoma and myeloma, appears to be low. This review evaluates the incidence of IFD after CAR T-cell therapy, and discusses optimal approaches to prevention, highlighting areas that require further study as well as future applications of cellular therapy that may impact IFD risk. As the use of CAR T-cell therapy continues to expand for hematologic malignancies, solid tumors, and most recently to include non-oncologic diseases, understanding the risk for IFD in this uniquely immunosuppressed population is imperative to prevent morbidity and mortality.
A nuclease-dead Cas9-derived tool represses target gene expression
Authors: Wang Bowen , Liu Xiaolin , Li Zhenxiang , Zeng Kang , Guo Jiangyi , Xin Tongxu , Zhang Zhen , Li Jian-Feng , Yang Xueyong
Published: March 2024

Manipulation of gene expression is central to understanding gene function, engineering cell behavior, and altering biological traits according to production demands. Nuclease-dead Cas9 (dCas9), a variant of active Cas9, offers a versatile platform for the precise control of genome function without DNA cleavage. Notably, however, an effective and universal dCas9-based transcriptional repression system remains unavailable in plants. The noncanonical histone acetyltransferase TENDRIL-LESS (CsTEN) is responsible for chromatin loosening and histone modification in cucumber (Cucumis sativus). In this study, we engineered a gene regulation tool by fusing TEN and its truncated proteins with dCas9. The full-length dCas9-TEN protein substantially repressed gene expression, with the N-terminal domain identified as the core repression domain. We subsequently validated the specificity and efficacy of this system through both transient infection and genetic transformation in cucumber and Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana). The electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) revealed the ability of the N-terminal domain of TEN to bind to chromatin, which may promote target binding of the dCas9 complex and enhance the transcriptional repression effect. Our tool enriches the arsenal of genetic regulation tools available for precision breeding in crops.
Intergenerational altruism and climate policy preferences
Authors: Agneman Gustav , Henriks Sofia , Bäck Hanna , Renström Emma
Published: March 2024

Climate mitigation constitutes an intergenerational moral dilemma; the decisions we make today will inevitably shape the prospects for generations to come. Yet, we still know little about the relationship between intergenerational altruism (IGA)—our concerns for the well-being of future generations—and support for costly climate mitigation policies. In this study, we present an approach to measuring IGA through an intergenerational dilemma, where participants allocate resources across generations. First, we describe how IGA depends on the temporal (social) distance between generations and demonstrate robust correlations between IGA and support for several climate policies. Then, we leverage randomized participation in the intergenerational dilemma to show that it causally increases climate policy support, an effect we attribute to higher worries about human-induced climate change among treated subjects. An exploratory heterogeneity analysis suggests that the impact of the intergenerational dilemma is primarily driven by female and nonbinary participants. In sum, this study presents both a novel measurement strategy and robust evidence of a malleable moral basis of climate policy preferences.
On the Congress Beat: How the Structure of News Shapes Coverage of Congressional Action
Authors: Curry James M , Lee Frances E , Oldham Robert L
Published: March 2024

Scholars have long criticized media coverage of Congress for its focus on conflict over policy substance. To uncover the drivers of this focus, we examine news coverage of the congressional response to COVID-19. We select the COVID-19 response as an extreme case of Congress coalescing quickly to address a major national crisis in an almost entirely bipartisan way. Our study confirms prior research documenting a media preference for conflict narratives, even in this case. But we also find that the practice of beat reporting on Congress is, itself, a key factor underlying the dominance of news about conflict. A steady volume of reporting on an institution that acts quickly when there is agreement but slowly when there is disagreement gives rise to a large-scale imbalance favoring stories about conflict. Because conflict necessarily takes up more of Congress's time, it dominates beat reporting on the institution. We find this imbalance is more pronounced in national newspapers, which produce a relatively constant volume of reporting by journalists assigned to the “Congress beat,” than in broadcast television news, which reports on Congress episodically and often only in response to legislative enactments. Our findings shed new light on public and scholarly perceptions of the institution's performance.