bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A disc wind origin for the optical spectra of dwarf novae in outburst
Authors: Tampo Yusuke , Knigge Christian , Long Knox S , Matthews James H , Segura Noel Castro
Published: July 2024

Many high-state cataclysmic variables (CVs) exhibit blue-shifted absorption features in their ultraviolet (UV) spectra – a smoking-gun signature of outflows. However, the impact of these outflows on optical spectra remains much more uncertain. During its recent outburst, the eclipsing dwarf nova V455 And displayed strong optical emission lines whose cores were narrower than expected from a Keplerian disc. Here, we explore whether disc + wind models developed for matching UV observations of CVs can also account for these optical spectra. Importantly, V455 And was extremely bright at outburst maximum: the accretion rate implied by fitting the optical continuum with a standard disc model is $\dot{M}_{\rm acc} \simeq 10^{-7}~{\rm M}_\odot ~{\rm yr^{-1}}$. Allowing for continuum reprocessing in the outflow helps to relax this constraint. A disc wind can also broadly reproduce the optical emission lines, but only if the wind is (i) highly mass-loaded, with a mass-loss rate reaching $\dot{M}_{\rm wind} \simeq 0.4 \dot{M}_{\rm acc}$, and/or (ii) clumpy, with a volume filling factor $f_V \simeq 0.1$. The same models can describe the spectral evolution across the outburst, simply by lowering $\dot{M}_{\rm acc}$ and $\dot{M}_{\rm wind}$. Extending these models to lower inclinations and into the UV produces spectra consistent with those observed in face-on high-state CVs. We also find, for the first time in simulations of this type, P-Cygni-like absorption features in the Balmer series, as have been observed in both CVs and X-ray binaries. Overall, dense disc winds provide a promising framework for explaining multiple observational signatures seen in high-state CVs, but theoretical challenges persist.
Chemical evolution models: the role of type Ia supernovae in the α-elements over iron relative abundances and their variations in time and space
Authors: Cavichia O , Mollá M , Bazán J J , Castrillo A , Galbany L , Millán-Irigoyen I , Ascasibar Y , Díaz A I , Monteiro H
Published: July 2024

The role of type Ia supernovae (SN Ia), mainly the delay time distributions (DTDs) determined by the binary systems, and the yields of elements created by different explosion mechanisms, are studied by using the MulChem chemical evolution model applied to our Galaxy. We explored 15 DTDs and 12 tables of elemental yields produced by different SN Ia explosion mechanisms, doing a total of 180 models. Chemical abundances for $\alpha$-elements (O, Mg, Si, and Ca) and Fe derived from these models are compared with recent solar region observational data of $\alpha$-elements over Fe relative abundances, [X/Fe], as a function of [Fe/H] and age. A multidimensional maximum-likelihood analysis shows that 52 models are able to fit all these data sets simultaneously, considering the 1$\sigma$ confidence level. The combination of STROLG1 DTD from Strolger et al. (2020) and LN20181 SN Ia yields from Leung & Nomoto (2018) provides the best fit. The exponential model with very prompt events is a possible DTD, but a combination of several channels is more probable. The SN Ia yields that include MCh or Near MCh correspond to 39 (75 per cent) of the 52 best models. Regarding the DTD, 31 (60 per cent) of the 52 most probable models correspond to the SD scenario, while the remaining 21 (40 per cent) are based on the DD scenario. Our results also show that the relatively large dispersion of the observational data may be explained by the stellar migration from other radial regions, and/or perhaps a combination of DTDs and explosion channels.
Unravelling jet quenching criteria across L* galaxies and massive cluster ellipticals
Authors: Su Kung-Yi , Bryan Greg L , Hayward Christopher C , Somerville Rachel S , Hopkins Philip F , Emami Razieh , Faucher-Giguère Claude-André , Quataert Eliot , Ponnada Sam B , Fielding Drummond , Kereš Dušan
Published: July 2024

In the absence of supplementary heat, the radiative cooling of halo gas around massive galaxies (Milky Way mass and above) leads to an excess of cold gas or stars beyond observed levels. Active galactic nucleus jet-induced heating is likely essential, but the specific properties of the jets remain unclear. Our previous work concludes from simulations of a halo with $10^{14} \,\mathrm{ M}_\odot$ that a successful jet model should have an energy flux comparable to the free-fall energy flux at the cooling radius and should inflate a sufficiently wide cocoon with a long enough cooling time. In this paper, we investigate three jet modes with constant fluxes satisfying the criteria, including high-temperature thermal jets, cosmic ray (CR)-dominant jets, and widely precessing kinetic jets in $10^{12}-10^{15}\, {\rm M}_{\odot }$ haloes using high-resolution, non-cosmological magnetohydrodynamic simulations with the FIRE-2 (Feedback In Realistic Environments) stellar feedback model, conduction, and viscosity. We find that scaling the jet energy according to the free-fall energy at the cooling radius can successfully suppress the cooling flows and quench galaxies without violating observational constraints. On the contrary, if we scale the energy flux based on the total cooling rate within the cooling radius, strong interstellar medium cooling dominates this scaling, resulting in a jet flux exceeding what is needed. Among the three jet types, the CR-dominant jet is most effective in suppressing cooling flows across all surveyed halo masses due to enhanced CR pressure support. We confirm that the criteria for a successful jet model work across a wider range, encompassing halo masses of $10^{12}-10^{15} {\rm M_\odot }$.
The infall region as a complementary probe to cluster abundance
Authors: Mpetha C T , Taylor J E , Amoura Y , Haggar R
Published: July 2024

Galaxy cluster abundance measurements provide a classic test of cosmology. They are most sensitive to the evolved amplitude of fluctuations, usually expressed as $S_8 = \sigma _8\sqrt{\Omega _{\rm m}/0.3}$. Thus, abundance constraints exhibit a strong degeneracy between $\sigma _8$ and $\Omega _{\rm m}$, as do other similar low-redshift tests such as cosmic shear. The mass distribution in the infall region around galaxy clusters, where material is being accreted from the surrounding field, also exhibits a cosmological dependence, but in this case it is nearly orthogonal to the $S_8$ direction in the $\Omega _{\rm m}$–$\sigma _8$ plane, making it highly complementary to halo abundance or cosmic shear studies. We explore how weak-lensing measurements of the infall region might be used to complement abundance studies, considering three different tests. The splashback radius is a prominent feature of the infall region; we show that detection of this feature in lensing data from the Euclid survey could independently constrain $\Omega _{\rm m}$ and $\sigma _8$ to $\pm 0.05$. Another feature, the depletion radius where the bias reaches a minimum, also shows cosmological dependence, though it is challenging to observe in practice. The strongest constraints come from direct measurements of the shear profile in the infall region at 2–$4\, r_{200{\rm c}}$. Combining the latter with abundance constraints such as those reported from SRG$/$eROSITA should reduce the area of the error contours by an estimated factor of 1.2 using a sample of clusters observed by the UNIONS survey, or a factor of 3 using clusters observed by the Euclid Wide survey over a broader range of redshift.
Rewinding the Ratchet: Rare Recombination Locally Rescues Neo-W Degeneration and Generates Plateaus of Sex-Chromosome Divergence
Authors: Decroly Thomas , Vila Roger , Lohse Konrad , Mackintosh Alexander
Published: July 2024

Natural selection is less efficient in the absence of recombination. As a result, nonrecombining sequences, such as sex chromosomes, tend to degenerate over time. Although the outcomes of recombination arrest are typically observed after many millions of generations, recent neo-sex chromosomes can give insight into the early stages of this process. Here, we investigate the evolution of neo-sex chromosomes in the Spanish marbled white butterfly, Melanargia ines, where a Z-autosome fusion has turned the homologous autosome into a nonrecombining neo-W chromosome. We show that these neo-sex chromosomes are likely limited to the Iberian population of M. ines, and that they arose around the time when this population split from North-African populations, around 1.5 million years ago. Recombination arrest of the neo-W chromosome has led to an excess of premature stop-codons and frame-shift mutations, and reduced gene expression compared to the neo-Z chromosome. Surprisingly, we identified two regions of ∼1 Mb at one end of the neo-W that are both less diverged from the neo-Z and less degraded than the rest of the chromosome, suggesting a history of rare but repeated genetic exchange between the two neo-sex chromosomes. These plateaus of neo-sex chromosome divergence suggest that neo-W degradation can be locally reversed by rare recombination between neo-W and neo-Z chromosomes.
Symmetry breaking of fluorophore binding to a G-quadruplex generates an RNA aptamer with picomolar KD
Authors: Lu Xiaocen , Passalacqua Luiz F M , Nodwell Matthew , Kong Kristen Y S , Caballero-García Guillermo , Dolgosheina Elena V , Ferré-D’Amaré Adrian R , Britton Robert , Unrau Peter J
Published: July 2024

Fluorogenic RNA aptamer tags with high affinity enable RNA purification and imaging. The G-quadruplex (G4) based Mango (M) series of aptamers were selected to bind a thiazole orange based (TO1-Biotin) ligand. Using a chemical biology and reselection approach, we have produced a MII.2 aptamer–ligand complex with a remarkable set of properties: Its unprecedented KD of 45 pM, formaldehyde resistance (8% v/v), temperature stability and ligand photo-recycling properties are all unusual to find simultaneously within a small RNA tag. Crystal structures demonstrate how MII.2, which differs from MII by a single A23U mutation, and modification of the TO1-Biotin ligand to TO1-6A-Biotin achieves these results. MII binds TO1-Biotin heterogeneously via a G4 surface that is surrounded by a stadium of five adenosines. Breaking this pseudo-rotational symmetry results in a highly cooperative and homogeneous ligand binding pocket: A22 of the G4 stadium stacks on the G4 binding surface while the TO1-6A-Biotin ligand completely fills the remaining three quadrants of the G4 ligand binding face. Similar optimization attempts with MIII.1, which already binds TO1-Biotin in a homogeneous manner, did not produce such marked improvements. We use the novel features of the MII.2 complex to demonstrate a powerful optically-based RNA purification system.
Cytotoxicity on low-grade canine meningioma with the use of somatostatin analog (octreotide): An in vitro study
Authors: Mandara Maria Teresa , Tognoloni Alessia , Giglia Giuseppe , Baroni Massimo , Falzone Cristian , Calò Pietro , Chiaradia Elisabetta
Published: July 2024

Background

Meningioma is the most common tumor of the central nervous system of dogs. For this tumor, surgery remains the treatment of choice, either alone or in combination with radiotherapy. Unfortunately, chemotherapeutic strategies are practically absent in dogs and palliative therapies are the only option to surgery. Somatostatin receptor subtype 2 (SSTR2) is expressed in canine meningioma. Since the potent cell-proliferation inhibiting effect of somatostatin (SST), the aim of this study was to investigate in vitro the effects of octreotide, as SST analog, in the viability of canine meningioma.

Methods

Four surgical canine meningiomas were used in this study to establish cell cultures. Expression of SSTR2 was verified with immunolabelling in FFPE samples and cell cultures. The effects of octreotide on cell viability were assessed by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT). After 24 hours they were exposed to different concentrations of octreotide (0.1 nM, 1 nM, 10 nM, 100 nM) for 24 and 48 hours.

Results

All meningiomas consisted of grade I tumors. The cultured neoplastic cells expressed SSTR2 from 80% to 100%. Octreotide significantly increased cell death after 48 hours of continuous exposure, with 10 and 100 nM octreotide doses. The percentage of cell viability was 80.92 ± 4.9 and 80.49 ± 3.61, compared to the control, respectively, consistent with decreased cell viability of about 20% for both doses.

Conclusions

Octreotide reduced the alive neoplastic cultured cells of low-grade canine meningioma in a dose-dependent pattern with continuous exposition for 48 hours. These results support an alternative systemic treatment of meningioma with octreotide in the dog.
The Effects of Vitamin D Supplementation During Pregnancy on Maternal, Neonatal, and Infant Health: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Yang Wen-Chien , Chitale Ramaa , O’Callaghan Karen M , Sudfeld Christopher R , Smith Emily R
Published: July 2024

Context

Previous research linked vitamin D deficiency in pregnancy to adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Objective

Update a 2017 systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the effect of vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy, identify sources of heterogeneity between trials, and describe evidence gaps precluding a clinical recommendation.

Data Sources

The MEDLINE, PubMed, Europe PMC, Scopus, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Web of Science, and CINAHL databases were searched. Articles were included that reported on RCTs that included pregnant women given vitamin D supplements as compared with placebo, no intervention, or active control (≤600 IU d–1). Risk ratios (RRs) and mean differences were pooled for 38 maternal, birth, and infant outcomes, using random effects models. Subgroup analyses examined effect heterogeneity. The Cochrane risk of bias tool was used.

Data Extraction

Included articles reported on a total of 66 trials (n = 17 276 participants).

Data Analysis

The median vitamin D supplementation dose was 2000 IU d–1 (range: 400-60 000); 37 trials used placebo. Antenatal vitamin D supplementation had no effect on the risk of preeclampsia (RR, 0.81 [95% CI, 0.43-1.53]; n = 6 trials and 1483 participants), potentially protected against gestational diabetes mellitus (RR, 0.65 [95% CI, 0.49-0.86; n = 12 trials and 1992 participants), and increased infant birth weight by 53 g (95% CI, 16-90; n = 40 trials and 9954 participants). No effect of vitamin D on the risk of preterm birth, small-for-gestational age, or low birth weight infants was found. A total of 25 trials had at least 1 domain at high risk of bias.

Conclusion

Additional studies among the general pregnant population are not needed, given the many existing trials. Instead, high-quality RCTs among populations with low vitamin D status or at greater risk of key outcomes are needed. Benefits of supplementation in pregnancy remain uncertain because current evidence has high heterogeneity, including variation in study context, baseline and achieved end-line 25-hydroxyvitamin D level, and studies with high risk of bias.

Systematic Review Registration

PROSPERO registration no. CRD42022350057.
Folate Biomarkers, Folate Intake, and Risk of Death From All Causes, Cardiovascular Disease, and Cancer: A Systematic Review and Dose-Response Meta-Analysis of Prospective Cohort Studies
Authors: Fallah Melika , Karim Dehnavi Maryam , Lotfi Keyhan , Aminianfar Azadeh , Azadbakht Leila , Esmaillzadeh Ahmad
Published: July 2024

Context

Existing evidence on the relation between folate intake and biomarkers with mortality risk is controversial.

Objective

Previous cohort studies were examined regarding folate intake and biomarkers in relation to risk of all-cause, cardiovascular disease– (CVD), and cancer-related mortality through a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Data Sources

A systematic search was performed of the PubMed, Scopus, and ISI Web of Science databases up to July 2023.

Data Extraction

Prospective cohort studies examining the association of folate biomarkers (in serum, plasma, red blood cells) and intake with risk of all-cause, CVD-, and cancer-related mortality were considered. A random-effects model was applied to combine study-specific risk estimates. Dose-response relations were assessed by 1-stage weighted mixed-effects meta-analysis.

Data Analysis

A total of 25 cohorts with 423 304 participants, 36 558 all-cause, 12 662 CVD-, and 2426 cancer-related deaths were included. No significant association was observed between the highest levels of folate biomarkers and all-cause mortality risk (hazard ratio [HR], 0.91; 95% CI, 0.77-1.06; n = 17; I2 = 89.4%; P < .001), CVD-related mortality risk (HR, 0.97; 95% CI, 0.87-1.06; n = 11; I2 = 0.0%; P = .57), and cancer-related mortality risk (HR, 0.85; 95% CI, 0.69-1.05; n = 6; I2 = 57.8%; P = .04) compared with the lowest. Furthermore, each 10 nmol/L increase was marginally related to a 12% reduced all-cause mortality risk but not to CVD- and cancer-related mortality risk. A significant inverse association was found between highest intake of dietary folate and the lowest, and risk of all-cause (HR, 0.87; 95% CI, 0.78-0.96; n = 3; I2 = 63.6%; P = .06) and CVD (HR, 0.77; 95% CI, 0.57-0.93; n = 4; I2 = 80.2%; P = .002) mortality.

Conclusions

This meta-analysis revealed a significant inverse relation between dietary folate intake and risk of all-cause and CVD mortality. Such an association was not found in the case of folate biomarkers. Further prospective studies are warranted to confirm these findings.

Systematic Review Registration

PROSPERO registration no. CRD42023401700.
Dolutegravir/Lamivudine Efficacy and Safety Outcomes in People With HIV-1 With or Without Historical Resistance Results at Screening: 48-Week Pooled Analysis
Authors: Scholten Stefan , Cahn Pedro , Portilla Joaquín , Bisshop Fiona , Hodder Sally , Ruane Peter , Kaplan Richard , Wynne Brian R , Man Choy Y , Grove Richard , Wang Ruolan , Jones Bryn , Ait-Khaled Mounir , Kisare Michelle , Okoli Chinyere
Published: July 2024

Background

Drug resistance testing aids in appropriate antiretroviral therapy selection to improve treatment success but may not be readily available. We evaluated the impact of switching to dolutegravir/lamivudine (DTG/3TC) using pooled data from the TANGO and SALSA trials in adults who were virologically suppressed with or without historical resistance results at screening.

Methods

Adults who were virologically suppressed (HIV-1 RNA <50 copies/mL for >6 months) with no prior virologic failure were randomized to switch to DTG/3TC (TANGO, n = 369; SALSA, n = 246) or continue their current antiretroviral regimen (CAR; TANGO, n = 372; SALSA, n = 247). Week 48 HIV-1 RNA ≥50 and <50 copies/mL (Snapshot algorithm, Food and Drug Administration; intention-to-treat exposed), CD4+ cell count, and safety were analyzed by availability of historical resistance results.

Results

Overall, 294 of 615 (48%) participants in the DTG/3TC group and 277 of 619 (45%) participants in the CAR group had no historical resistance results at screening. At week 48, proportions with Snapshot HIV-1 RNA ≥50 copies/mL were low (≤1.1%) and similar across treatment groups and by historical resistance results availability. High proportions (91%–95%) maintained virologic suppression through week 48, regardless of results availability. Across both subgroups of results availability, greater increases in CD4+ cell count from baseline to week 48 occurred with DTG/3TC vs CAR. No participants taking DTG/3TC had confirmed virologic withdrawal, regardless of historical resistance results availability. One participant undergoing CAR without historical resistance results had confirmed virologic withdrawal; no resistance was detected. Overall, DTG/3TC was well tolerated; few adverse events led to withdrawal.

Conclusions

Findings support DTG/3TC as a robust switch option for adults who are virologically suppressed with HIV-1 and no prior virologic failure, regardless of historical resistance results availability.

Clinical trial registration

TANGO: NCT03446573, https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT03446573. SALSA: NCT04021290, https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04021290
The Impact of the Fungal Priority Pathogens List on Medical Mycology: A Northern European Perspective
Authors: Arendrup Maiken Cavling , Armstrong-James Darius , Borman Andrew M , Denning David W , Fisher Matthew C , Gorton Rebecca , Maertens Johan , Martin-Loeches Ignacio , Mehra Varun , Mercier Toine , Price Jessica , Rautemaa-Richardson Riina , Wake Rachel , Andrews Natalie , White P Lewis
Published: July 2024

Fungal diseases represent a considerable global health concern, affecting >1 billion people annually. In response to this growing challenge, the World Health Organization introduced the pivotal fungal priority pathogens list (FPPL) in late 2022. The FPPL highlights the challenges in estimating the global burden of fungal diseases and antifungal resistance (AFR), as well as limited surveillance capabilities and lack of routine AFR testing. Furthermore, training programs should incorporate sufficient information on fungal diseases, necessitating global advocacy to educate health care professionals and scientists. Established international guidelines and the FPPL are vital in strengthening local guidance on tackling fungal diseases. Future iterations of the FPPL have the potential to refine the list further, addressing its limitations and advancing our collective ability to combat fungal diseases effectively. Napp Pharmaceuticals Limited (Mundipharma UK) organized a workshop with key experts from Northern Europe to discuss the impact of the FPPL on regional clinical practice.
Rat hepatitis E virus cross-species infection and transmission in pigs
Authors: Yadav Kush Kumar , Boley Patricia A , Lee Carolyn M , Khatiwada Saroj , Jung Kwonil , Laocharoensuk Thamonpan , Hofstetter Jake , Wood Ronna , Hanson Juliette , Kenney Scott P
Published: July 2024

Strains of Rocahepevirus ratti, an emerging hepatitis E virus (HEV), have recently been found to be infectious to humans. Rats are a primary reservoir of the virus; thus, it is referred to as “rat HEV”. Rats are often found on swine farms in close contact with pigs. Our goal was to determine whether swine may serve as a transmission host for zoonotic rat HEV by characterizing an infectious cDNA clone of a zoonotic rat HEV, strain LCK-3110, in vitro and in vivo. RNA transcripts of LCK-3110 were constructed and assessed for their replicative capacity in cell culture and in gnotobiotic pigs. Fecal suspension from rat HEV-positive gnotobiotic pigs was inoculated into conventional pigs co-housed with naïve pigs. Our results demonstrated that capped RNA transcripts of LCK-3110 rat HEV replicated in vitro and successfully infected conventional pigs that transmit the virus to co-housed animals. The infectious clone of rat HEV may afford an opportunity to study the genetic mechanisms of rat HEV cross-species infection and tissue tropism.
Hunting the Royal Navy’s Medical ‘Snark’: Diagnosis, Prevention and Treatment of Tropical Neurosis in British Sailors, 1943–1945
Authors: Houghton Frances
Published: July 2024

Between 1943 and 1945, Britain’s Royal Naval Medical Service dispatched urgent missions to investigate physiological and psychological effects suffered by British sailors who were deployed in tropical climates. This article draws on the resulting, previously neglected, medical articles and medical research reports to examine understandings of ‘tropical neurosis’ in the wartime Fleet. Exploring how tropical neurosis was encountered, framed and explained by senior naval medical professionals, this article investigates the condition’s portrayal as a serious health and military risk during the Second World War. This research analyses hitherto unexplored intersections of constructions of race, gender and environment in British naval medical conclusions and recommendations, delivering significant new understandings of the insidious operation of medical racism in Britain’s wartime armed forces. It also establishes, for the first time, how this ambiguous illness was construed as a threat to Britain’s naval war effort, and even the very future of Empire, by the Navy’s medical branch.
Germany: Foundation law in Germany after its fundamental reform
Authors: Richter Andreas , Gollan Anna Katharina
Published: July 2024

Very recently, foundation law in Germany has been extensively reformed. This article sheds light on some of the fundamental changes brought about by the reform. It takes a practitioner’s perspective and thus elucidates the key aspects to bear in mind when dealing with a German foundation (Stiftung)—whether as a third party, a (contractual) debtor or creditor or even as a beneficiary or potential founder.
Jersey: The virtues of strong (Jersey) foundations
Authors: Scott Claire , Burnell Will
Published: July 2024

Jersey foundations were introduced into law through the Foundations (Jersey) Law 2009. Although there are numerous variations of ‘foundations’ in jurisdictions across the world, a Jersey foundation, as a hybrid between a company and a trust, is unique to Jersey law, though it does have some strong similarities to a Guernsey foundation. This article reviews the key features of a Jersey foundation as a wealth planning vehicle, details the most common uses (as seen by the authors) and how case law has shaped Jersey foundations, and considers alternative structures available.
‘But there’s no history here!’: children, heritage education, and the BBC Broadcasts for Schools, 1924–45
Authors: Grenby M O , Gribling Barbara
Published: July 2024

The BBC offered broadcasts for schools almost from its inception; a significant strand of this programming focussed on teaching children about the material remains of the past in their own localities. Employing an impressive roster of historians, writers, and educationalists, the BBC experimented with innovative formats to engage children with what we would now call ‘heritage’. In Scotland first, then England and Wales, programmes aimed to construct national identities on the basis of children’s aural encounters with specific historical sites and artefacts. Young listeners were encouraged to become ‘heritage makers’ themselves, investigating their historical environments, collecting local stories, archiving objects, writing guidebooks. While at first, these programmes seem largely concerned with the preservation of historic sites from the encroachment of modernity, gradually the localized remains of the past were used more explicitly as a means of moulding citizenship in the nation’s youth. The Second World War gave this nation-building programming a new urgency, while post-War broadcasts challenged children to use their historical environments as a basis for building better places for the future. Analysing broadcasts from the 1920s to the 1940s, this article shows how this local history, ‘Rural Environment’ and ‘Regional Survey’ school’s programming constitutes an overlooked chapter in the history of the BBC’s attempts to reach and influence new audiences. It argues that these broadcasts pioneered new ways of deploying place-based history to fashion future citizens, anticipating the educative function that has now become an expected part of the heritage provision.
A new Antarctic species of Orchomenella G.O. Sars, 1890 (Amphipoda: Lysianassoidea: Tryphosidae): is phase-contrast micro-tomography a mature technique for digital holotypes?
Authors: Giulianini Piero G , De Broyer Claude , Hendrycks Ed A , Greco Samuele , D’Agostino Elisa , Donato Sandro , Giglio Anita , Gerdol Marco , Pallavicini Alberto , Manfrin Chiara
Published: July 2024

The purpose of this paper is to describe a new species of Antarctic amphipod of the genus Orchomenella Sars, 1890, Orchomenella rinamontiae sp. nov., and to investigate whether high-resolution images of the surface anatomy obtained ‘in situ’ with synchrotron radiation X-ray phase-contrast micro-tomography (SR-PhC micro-CT) can replace classical approaches to describe a new species. The phylogenetic analyses based on the gene COI support the morphologically based taxonomic assignment. The SR-PhC micro-CT was useful for viewing the three-dimensional reconstructions, with the great advantages that the specimen could be rotated around all axes and that it was possible digitally to remove sections of the image that might have obscured areas of the amphipod on which we were focusing. However, it is not yet a completely reliable technique to describe a new species fully. Classical descriptions using light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy are still necessary. Nevertheless, SR-PhC micro-CT is a promising technique that has the potential to revolutionize the way we study biological samples, accelerating the study of biodiversity.
Paths of Least Resistance: Unconventional Effector Secretion by Fungal and Oomycete Plant Pathogens
Authors: Dulal Nawaraj , Wilson Richard A.
Published: July 2024

Effector secretion by different routes mediates the molecular interplay between host plant and pathogen, but mechanistic details in eukaryotes are sparse. This may limit the discovery of new effectors that could be utilized for improving host plant disease resistance. In fungi and oomycetes, apoplastic effectors are secreted via the conventional endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-Golgi pathway, while cytoplasmic effectors are packaged into vesicles that bypass Golgi in an unconventional protein secretion (UPS) pathway. In Magnaporthe oryzae, the Golgi bypass UPS pathway incorporates components of the exocyst complex and a t-SNARE, presumably to fuse Golgi bypass vesicles to the fungal plasma membrane. Upstream, cytoplasmic effector mRNA translation in M. oryzae requires the efficient decoding of AA-ending codons. This involves the modification of wobble uridines in the anticodon loop of cognate tRNAs and fine-tunes cytoplasmic effector translation and secretion rates to maintain biotrophic interfacial complex integrity and permit host infection. Thus, plant-fungal interface integrity is intimately tied to effector codon usage, which is a surprising constraint on pathogenicity. Here, we discuss these findings within the context of fungal and oomycete effector discovery, delivery, and function in host cells. We show how cracking the codon code for unconventional cytoplasmic effector secretion in M. oryzae has revealed AA-ending codon usage bias in cytoplasmic effector mRNAs across kingdoms, including within the RxLR-dEER motif-encoding sequence of a bona fide Phytophthora infestans cytoplasmic effector, suggesting its subjection to translational speed control. By focusing on recent developments in understanding unconventional effector secretion, we draw attention to this important but understudied area of host-pathogen interactions.

[Formula: see text] Copyright © 2024 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license .
Optimizing Femoral Tunnel Placement in ACL Reconstruction: Effect of a 70-degree Arthroscope and Portal Position
Authors: Khan Tanvir , Al-Ali Sami , Alvand Abtin , Jackson William F. , Hasan Yusuf O. , Beard David J. , Gill Harinderjit S. , Price Andrew J.
Published: July 2024

Purpose:

The aim of this study was to assess the accuracy of femoral tunnel placement for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) using either an accessory medial portal or a 70-degree arthroscope compared with the standard 2-portal technique.

Methods:

A computerized 3D model of the femur was obtained with 4 reference points marked around the LFC. Using the simulator, 2 surgeons marked 5 consecutive femoral tunnel points with a 30-degree arthroscope in the lateral portal (30AL), then with a 30-degree arthroscope in an accessory medial portal (30AM), and next with a 70-degree arthroscope in the lateral portal (70AL). This was repeated after one week. Subjects then marked their target femoral tunnel positions (T) on the free femur sawbone model. After each episode, the distances from the marked tunnel point to the 4 reference points (d1, d2, d3, d4) were measured. After mapping to the 3D femur model, the co-ordinates of each marked tunnel position were determined. The distance (r) from T was calculated for each episode.

Results:

The median value of r was 1.27 mm(SE 0.15 mm) using 30AL, 0.54 mm (SE 0.12 mm) using the 30AM portal, and 0.20 mm (SE 0.047 mm) with 70AL. r was significantly smaller with 70AL (P<0.0001). The difference in r between 30AM and 30AL was also statistically significant (P=0.019).

Conclusions:

A 70-degree arthroscope in the lateral portal allows greater accuracy in femoral tunnel placement compared with a 30-degree arthroscope in either the lateral or an accessory medial portal.
The Ray Method: Aesthetic and Simple Technique for Prosthesis Coverage in Prepectoral Breast Reconstruction
Authors: Seo Min-Gi , Chung Kyu-Jin , Lee Jun-Ho
Published: July 2024

In prepectoral breast reconstruction, the acellular dermal matrix (ADM) is commonly used to envelop breast implants. Various wrapping methods have been proposed. We present a simple but aesthetic method (ie, the ray method) for wrapping in prepectoral breast reconstruction. Without any complicated design, we folded the four corners of one large ADM and sewed them together to completely envelop the implant. Then, the 6 o’clock corner of the ADM envelope was folded up and sutured to make a pentagonal shape. The other corners of the ADM envelope were quilted to determine the position and movement of the internal implant. Additional sutures were placed on the ADM envelope to separate the implant from the host tissue. The folded 6 o’clock corner was cut to a convex contour and had a diagonal gap to prevent the collection of fluid in the ADM envelope. Finally, the wrapped implant was inserted in the postmastectomy space, and the ADM envelope was spread widely to support soft tissue effectively. This simple design is straightforward for inexperienced surgeons and reduces operation time. The position and movement of the breast implant in the ADM envelope can be easily controlled by using quilted sutures. Subclavian depression and step-off deformities can be minimized by this wide-stretched ADM. By total coverage with a large ADM, the breast implant is separated from the surrounding tissue, and foreign body reactions are reduced. This method is reliable for maximizing the aesthetic advantages of prepectoral direct-to-implant breast reconstruction.
Guideline of traditional Chinese medicine diagnosis and treatment for breast cancer patients with emotional disorders (2023)
Authors: Hu Yudie , Wang Xuan , Jing Hanguang , Zhong Shaowen , Chen Qianjun , Liu Xiaoyan , Guo Li , Ren Liping , Huang Limei , Liu Chang , Lin Yi , Situ Honglin , Wang Zhiyu
Published: July 2024

Breast cancer has emerged as one of the most common malignancies among women globally, constituting a major cause of female cancer-related mortality. Among breast cancer patients, the incidence of emotional disorders is notably high, significantly impacting their quality of life and disease prognosis. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) offers numerous advantages in addressing emotional disorders. However, currently there are no standardized diagnostic or therapeutic guidelines for TCM management of emotional disturbances accompanying breast cancer. This guideline, authored by a panel of experts in the field of TCM, including specialists in breast oncology, breast surgery, and psychosomatic medicine, is based on the current best evidence and expert insights. It standardizes the terms and definitions, diagnostic criteria, etiology and pathogenesis, clinical staging, and treatment principles of breast cancer with emotional disorders. Meanwhile, the guideline establishes 6 main TCM syndrome types and their corresponding treatment strategies. Its purpose is to serve as a reference and foundation for the clinical syndrome differentiation and treatment of emotional disorders in breast cancer patients.
A novel phosphodiesterase inhibitor for the treatment of chronic liver injury and metabolic diseases
Authors: Staller Dalton W. , Panigrahi Sanjali S. , Jayasinghe Yahani P. , Dong Yuxiang , Mahto Sohan , Kumar Virender , Ronning Donald R. , Mahato Ram I.
Published: July 2024

Background and Aims:

Chronic liver disease leads to ~2 million deaths annually. Cyclic AMP (cAMP) signaling has long been studied in liver injury, particularly in the regulation of fatty acid (FA) β-oxidation and pro-inflammatory polarization of tissue-resident lymphocytes. Phosphodiesterase 4B inhibition has been explored as a therapeutic modality, but these drugs have had limited success and are known to cause significant adverse effects. The PDE4 inhibitor 2-(4-([2-(5-Chlorothiophen-2-yl)-5-ethyl-6-methylpyrimidin-4-yl]amino)phenyl)acetic acid) (known as A-33) has yet to be explored for the treatment of metabolic diseases.

Approach and Results:

Herein, we evaluated the efficacy of A-33 in the treatment of animal models of alcohol-associated liver disease and steatotic liver disease. We demonstrated that A-33 effectively ameliorated the signs and symptoms of chronic liver disease, resulting in significant decreases in serum alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase levels, decreased overall fat and collagen deposition in the liver, decreased intrahepatic triglyceride concentrations, and normalized expression of genes related to β-oxidation of fatty acids, inflammation, and extracellular matrix deposition. We also designed and synthesized a novel analog of A-33, termed MDL3, which inhibited both phosphodiesterase 4B and PDE5A and was more effective in ameliorating pathophysiological signs and symptoms of liver injury and inflammation. In addition, MDL3 re-sensitized obese mice to glucose and significantly inhibited the pathological remodeling of adipose tissue, which was not observed with A-33 administration.

Conclusions:

In conclusion, we synthesized and demonstrated that MDL3, a novel phosphodiesterase 4B and PDE5A inhibitor, presents a promising avenue of exploration for treating chronic liver disease.
Schwannoma of the hepatoduodenal legament: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Spalluto Marta , Ardu Massimiliano , Cassini Diletta , Lenna Susanna , Moukachar Abdallah , Baldazzi Gianandrea
Published: July 2024

Schwannomas are extremely rare and almost constantly benign tumors arising from Schwann cells. Gastrointestinal tract schwannomas are usually asymptomatic, and their radiologically/endoscopic features are not pathognomonic. Schwannomas in the hepatoduodenal ligament are even more unusual. In this article, we present a rare case of a Schwannoma of the hepatoduodenal ligament and a brief overview of the literature. A 65-year-old Caucasian female presented for outpatient general surgery evaluation in our institute after sonography and contrast-enhanced abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan incidentally revealed an ovoid mass extended along the lesser curvature of the stomach. The patient underwent a laparoscopic excision of the mass. The final histopathologic examination was suggestive for Schwannoma. At 12-month follow-up, the patient is well with no signs of recurrence or metastasis. Even if their incidence is extremely low, Schwannomas should be included in the broad range of abdominal mass differential diagnosis.
Spontaneous rupture of hepatic hemangioma: case report and literature review
Authors: Sciano Donato , Mingione Alberto , Pezzulo Carmine Massimo , Lombari Pietro , Iarrobino Francesco , Donnarumma Maddalena Claudia , Andreano Mauro
Published: July 2024

Hepatic lesions represent a potential etiology of spontaneous hemoperitoneum. Among these, hepatic hemangiomas, characterized by congenital vascular malformations, stand out as the most likely benign liver neoplasms, frequently presenting as asymptomatic entities. However, spontaneous rupture constitutes the gravest complication associated with these lesions, underscoring the imperative of prompt diagnosis. Notably, the global mortality rate attributed to spontaneous rupture of hepatic hemangiomas remains elevated. Hence, achieving an accurate diagnosis of this condition is paramount for informing. Hepatic hemangioma stands as the prevailing benign hepatic neoplasm, with autopsy studies indicating a prevalence ranging between 3% and 20%. In a clinical scenario, a 64-year-old patient presented at Sant’Anna and S. Sebastian Hospital with severe abdominal pain, hypotension (blood pressure 70/40 mm Hg), tachycardia (heart rate 120 bpm), and abdominal muscle guarding upon physical examination. Ultrasound assessment revealed the presence of free intraperitoneal fluid. However, the ultrasound examination could not be completed due to the patient’s deteriorating hemodynamic status and manifestation of instability. Consequently, an urgent exploratory laparotomy was deemed necessary and promptly undertaken in the operating theater.
Systemic Treatment With Cyclosporine A in Children With Severe Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis
Authors: Gazit Inbal , Wussuki-Lior Orly , Tauber Tsivia , Morad Yair
Published: July 2024

Purpose:

To report our experience with systemic cyclosporine as a treatment for severe vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) in pediatric patients who did not respond to previous treatments.

Methods:

We analyzed the medical records of 6 patients, aged 4 to 15 years, with severe VKC treated with systemic cyclosporine for VKC at Shamir Medical Center in Zerifin, Israel, between the years 2000 and 2023. The average treatment duration was 18 months. In all patients, previous treatments with antihistamines, mast cells stabilizers, topical steroids and topical cyclosporine, and systemic steroids did not result in sufficient improvement. The severity of inflammation was evaluated during clinical examinations and the patients' subjective assessment of their quality of life.

Results:

In all 6 patients, signs and symptoms showed significant improvement within 2 to 4 weeks of initiating systemic cyclosporine treatment. All patients were able to discontinue regular steroids use and reported a significant improvement in their quality of life. No significant side effects were observed in any of the patients.

Conclusions:

Systemic cyclosporine is a safe and effective treatment for severe VKC. It is a steroid-sparing treatment that allows good quality of life, while keeping the disease latent.
Efficacy of spironolactone in treating hidradenitis suppurativa in women of childbearing age: a single-center retrospective analysis
Authors: Gangidi Suma V. , Greene Rachel K. , Olsen Eric , Jackson Shanelle , Nakamura Mio
Published: July 2024

Background:

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic skin disease characterized by recurrent nodules that affect areas with a high density of apocrine sweat glands, such as the axillae and groin. Androgens are implicated in the pathophysiology of HS. Therefore, spironolactone, an antiandrogen therapy, is recommended. However, data on its use in women of childbearing age are limited, especially since its antiandrogenic effects may affect menstruation, fertility, and pubertal development.

Objective:

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of spironolactone in the treatment of hidradenitis suppurativa in women of childbearing age and to identify factors associated with treatment response.

Methods:

A retrospective analysis was conducted on female patients aged 12 to 50 with HS treated with spironolactone at Michigan Medicine dermatology clinics from 2000 to 2021. The patients’ demographic data, HS characteristics, and spironolactone responses were examined. Statistical assessments were performed to determine the efficacy indicators.

Results:

Of the 157 patients reviewed, 31 showed an improvement in treatment. Variables such as axillary involvement, previous treatment failures, and use of intralesional steroids were linked to a lack of improvement in spironolactone. Through adjusted multiple logistic regression analysis, a significant association was observed between improvement status and Hurley stage 3 (odds ratio = 0.15 [95% CI: 0.02–0.79], P = .036), suggesting that patients with Hurley stage 3 were 85% less likely to exhibit improvement in spironolactone therapy.

Limitations:

The study’s retrospective nature and reliance on single-center data can limit generalizability. The sample size is limited and therefore affects the study’s statistical power.

Conclusion:

Thus, spironolactone may offer therapeutic benefits for HS in women of childbearing age. However, patients with severe disease (Hurley stage 3) had reduced response rates. Further prospective studies are recommended to validate these findings and determine the most suitable patient profile for spironolactone therapy for HS.
Transcatheter Axial Pump Use in Pediatric Patients on Veno-Arterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation: An ACTION Collaborative Experience
Authors: Shugh Svetlana B. , Tume Sebastian C. , Bansal Neha , Dykes John C. , Esch Jesse J. , Jeewa Aamir , Law Sabrina , O’Connor Matthew , Parent John J. , Said Ahmed S. , Scholl Frank G. , Shezad Muhammad F. , Morray Brian H. ,   on behalf of ACTION Investigators
Published: July 2024

We report the largest pediatric multicenter experience with Impella pump use and peripheral veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) support. Utilizing the Advanced Cardiac Therapies Improving Outcomes Network (ACTION) collaborative database, we conducted a retrospective, multicenter study of all patients with cardiogenic shock requiring VA-ECMO support with subsequent Impella implant between October 2014 and December 2021. The primary outcome was defined as death while on Impella support. Secondary outcomes were recovery, transplantation, and transition to durable ventricular assist device (VAD) at the time of Impella explantation. Adverse events were defined according to the ACTION registry criteria. Twenty subjects were supported with Impella; Impella 2.5 (n = 3), CP (n = 12), 5.0/5.5 (n = 5). The median Interquartile range (IQR) age, weight, and body surface area at implantation were 15.6 years (IQR = 13.9–17.2), 65.7 kg (IQR = 53.1–80.7), and 1.74 m2 (IQR = 1.58–1.98). Primary cardiac diagnoses were dilated cardiomyopathy/myocarditis in nine (45%), congenital heart disease in four (20%), graft failure/rejection in four (20%), and three (15%) others. Most common adverse events included hemolysis (50%) and bleeding (20%). There were two deaths (10%) in the cohort. Nine patients (45%) were explanted for recovery, eight (40%) were transitioned to a durable VAD, and one (5%) underwent heart transplantation. Impella percutaneous pump support should be considered in the older pediatric population supported with peripheral VA-ECMO, as a means of left heart decompression, and a strategy to come off ECMO to achieve endpoints of myocardial recovery, transition to a durable VAD, or transplantation.