bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Turbulent magnetic helicity fluxes in solar convective zone
Authors: Kleeorin N , Rogachevskii I
Published: August 2022

Combined action of helical motions of plasma (the kinetic α effect) and non-uniform (differential) rotation is a key dynamo mechanism of solar and galactic large-scale magnetic fields. Dynamics of magnetic helicity of small-scale fields is a crucial mechanism in a non-linear dynamo saturation where turbulent magnetic helicity fluxes allow to avoid catastrophic quenching of the α effect. The convective zone of the Sun and solar-like stars, as well as galactic discs, are the source for production of turbulent magnetic helicity fluxes. In the framework of the mean-field approach and the spectral τ approximation, we derive turbulent magnetic helicity fluxes using the Coulomb gauge in a density-stratified turbulence. The turbulent magnetic helicity fluxes include non-gradient and gradient contributions. The non-gradient magnetic helicity flux is proportional to a non-linear effective velocity (which vanishes in the absence of the density stratification) multiplied by small-scale magnetic helicity, while the gradient contributions describe turbulent magnetic diffusion of the small-scale magnetic helicity. In addition, the turbulent magnetic helicity fluxes contain source terms proportional to the kinetic α effect or its gradients, and also contributions caused by the large-scale shear (solar differential rotation). We have demonstrated that the turbulent magnetic helicity fluxes due to the kinetic α effect and its radial derivative in combination with the non-linear magnetic diffusion of the small-scale magnetic helicity are dominant in the solar convective zone.
The Hot Neptune WASP-166 b with ESPRESSO – I. Refining the planetary architecture and stellar variability
Authors: Doyle L , Cegla H M , Bryant E , Bayliss D , Lafarga M , Anderson D R , Allart R , Bourrier V , Brogi M , Buchschacher N , Kunovac V , Lendl M , Lovis C , Moyano M , Roguet-Kern N , Seidel J V , Sosnowska D , Wheatley P J , Acton J S , Burleigh M R , Casewell S L , Gill S , Goad M R , Henderson B A , Jenkins J S , Tilbrook R H , West R G
Published: August 2022

In this paper, we present high-resolution spectroscopic transit observations from ESPRESSO of the super-Neptune WASP-166 b. In addition to spectroscopic ESPRESSO data, we analyse photometric data from TESS of six WASP-166 b transits along with simultaneous NGTS observations of the ESPRESSO runs. These observations were used to fit for the planetary parameters as well as assessing the level of stellar activity (e.g. spot crossings, flares) present during the ESPRESSO observations. We utilize the reloaded Rossiter McLaughlin (RRM) technique to spatially resolve the stellar surface, characterizing the centre-to-limb convection-induced variations, and to refine the star–planet obliquity. We find WASP-166 b has a projected obliquity of $\lambda = -15.52^{+2.85}_{-2.76}\, ^{\circ }$ and vsin (i) = 4.97 ± 0.09 km s−1 which is consistent with the literature. We were able to characterize centre-to-limb convective variations as a result of granulation on the surface of the star on the order of a few km s−1 for the first time. We modelled the centre-to-limb convective variations using a linear, quadratic, and cubic model with the cubic being preferred. In addition, by modelling the differential rotation and centre-to-limb convective variations simultaneously, we were able to retrieve a potential antisolar differential rotational shear (α ∼ −0.5) and stellar inclination (i* either 42.03$^{+9.13}_{-9.60}\, ^{\circ }$ or 133.64$^{+8.42}_{-7.98}\, ^{\circ }$ if the star is pointing towards or away from us). Finally, we investigate how the shape of the cross-correlation functions change as a function of limb angle and compare our results to magnetohydrodynamic simulations.
Forecasting the cross-correlation of the CSST galaxy survey with the FAST H i Intensity Map
Authors: Deng Furen , Gong Yan , Wang Yougang , Dong Shutong , Cao Ye , Chen Xuelei
Published: August 2022

The cross-correlation of optical galaxies with the neutral hydrogen (H i) radiation intensity can enhance the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the H i intensity measurement. In this paper, we investigate the cross-correlation of the galaxy samples obtained by the spectroscopic survey of the China Space Station Telescope (CSST) with the H i Intensity mapping (IM) survey of the Five-hundred-meter Aperture Spherical Telescope (FAST). Using the IllusitrisTNG simulation result at redshift 0.2 ∼ 0.3, we generate mock data of the CSST survey and a FAST L-band drift scan survey. The CSST spectroscopic survey can yield a sample of galaxies with a high comoving number density of $10^{-2}\, ({\ \rm Mpc}\,h^{ -1})^{-3}$ at z ∼ 0.3. We cross-correlate the foreground-removed radio intensity with the CSST galaxies, including both the whole sample, and red and blue galaxy subsamples separately. We find that in all cases the H i and optical galaxies are well correlated. The total H i abundance can be measured with a high precision from this correlation. A relative error of $\sim 0.6{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ for $\Omega _{\rm H\, \small {I}}$ could be achieved at z ∼ 0.3 for an overlapping survey area of $10\,000\, {\ \rm deg}^2$.
Characterization of the eclipsing post-common-envelope binary TIC 60040774
Authors: Priyatikanto R , Knigge C , Scaringi S , Brink J , Buckley D A H
Published: August 2022

Binaries with a white dwarf primary and a main sequence secondary can be used to test our understanding of both single and binary star evolution. A small fraction of such systems experienced a common-envelope phase from which they emerged with a relatively short orbital period. Here, we present the characterization of an eclipsing post-common-envelope binary of this kind, TIC 60040774, based on the light curve provided by the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS), multiband photometry collated from the virtual observatory, and spectroscopic data obtained the Southern African Large Telescope (SALT). With an orbital period of 0.404807 ± 0.000149  d this system consists of a young white dwarf paired with an M6.5 dwarf companion. We estimate the masses of the primary and secondary to be 0.598 ± 0.029 M⊙ and 0.107 ± 0.020 M⊙, while the effective temperatures are 14050 ± 360 K and 2759 ± 50 K, respectively. The eclipse ingress and egress profile is shallower than expected from a simple geometric model such that more precise high-cadence photometry is required to understand the nature of this system. Given the similarity of TIC 60040774 to systems like GK Vir and NN Ser, it will be worth tracking its eclipse times to check for the presence of one or more circumbinary planets.
A universal model for the evolution of tidally stripped systems
Authors: Drakos Nicole E , Taylor James E , Benson Andrew J
Published: August 2022

Accurate models of the structural evolution of dark matter subhaloes, as they orbit within larger systems, are fundamental to understanding the detailed distribution of dark matter at the present day. Numerical simulations of subhalo evolution support the idea that the mass-loss associated with tidal stripping is most naturally understood in energy space, with the particles that are the least bound being removed first. Starting from this premise, we recently proposed a zero-parameter ‘energy-truncation model’ for subhalo evolution. We tested this model with simulations of tidal stripping of satellites with initial NFW profiles, and showed that the energy-truncation model accurately predicts both the mass-loss and density profiles. In this work, we apply the model to a variety of Hernquist, Einasto, and King profiles. We show that it matches the simulation results quite closely in all cases, indicating that it may serve as a universal model to describe tidally stripped collision-less systems. A key prediction of the energy-truncation model is that the central density of dark matter subhaloes is conserved as they lose mass; this has important implications for dark matter annihilation calculations, and for other observational tests of dark matter.
Construction of a cross-species cell landscape at single-cell level
Authors: Wang Renying , Zhang Peijing , Wang Jingjing , Ma Lifeng , E Weigao , Suo Shengbao , Jiang Mengmeng , Li Jiaqi , Chen Haide , Sun Huiyu , Fei Lijiang , Zhou Ziming , Zhou Yincong , Chen Yao , Zhang Weiqi , Wang Xinru , Mei Yuqing , Sun Zhongyi , Yu Chengxuan , Shao Jikai , Fu Yuting , Xiao Yanyu , Ye Fang , Fang Xing , Wu Hanyu , Guo Qile , Fang Xiunan , Li Xia , Gao Xianzhi , Wang Dan , Xu Peng-Fei , Zeng Rui , Xu Gang , Zhu Lijun , Wang Lie , Qu Jing , Zhang Dan , Ouyang Hongwei , Huang He , Chen Ming , NG Shyh-Chang , Liu Guang-Hui , Yuan Guo-Cheng , Guo Guoji , Han Xiaoping
Published: August 2022

Individual cells are basic units of life. Despite extensive efforts to characterize the cellular heterogeneity of different organisms, cross-species comparisons of landscape dynamics have not been achieved. Here, we applied single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) to map organism-level cell landscapes at multiple life stages for mice, zebrafish and Drosophila. By integrating the comprehensive dataset of > 2.6 million single cells, we constructed a cross-species cell landscape and identified signatures and common pathways that changed throughout the life span. We identified structural inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction as the most common hallmarks of organism aging, and found that pharmacological activation of mitochondrial metabolism alleviated aging phenotypes in mice. The cross-species cell landscape with other published datasets were stored in an integrated online portal—Cell Landscape. Our work provides a valuable resource for studying lineage development, maturation and aging.
Role for DNA double strand end-resection activity of RecBCD in control of aberrant chromosomal replication initiation in Escherichia coli
Authors: Goswami Sayantan , Gowrishankar Jayaraman
Published: August 2022

Replication of the circular bacterial chromosome is initiated from a locus oriC with the aid of an essential protein DnaA. One approach to identify factors acting to prevent aberrant oriC-independent replication initiation in Escherichia coli has been that to obtain mutants which survive loss of DnaA. Here, we show that a ΔrecD mutation, associated with attenuation of RecBCD’s DNA double strand end-resection activity, provokes abnormal replication and rescues ΔdnaA lethality in two situations: (i) in absence of 5′-3′ single-strand DNA exonuclease RecJ, or (ii) when multiple two-ended DNA double strand breaks (DSBs) are generated either by I-SceI endonucleolytic cleavages or by radiomimetic agents phleomycin or bleomycin. One-ended DSBs in the ΔrecD mutant did not rescue ΔdnaA lethality. With two-ended DSBs in the ΔrecD strain, ΔdnaA viability was retained even after linearization of the chromosome. Data from genome-wide DNA copy number determinations in ΔdnaA-rescued cells lead us to propose a model that nuclease-mediated DNA resection activity of RecBCD is critical for prevention of a σ-mode of rolling-circle over-replication when convergent replication forks merge and fuse, as may be expected to occur during normal replication at the chromosomal terminus region or during repair of two-ended DSBs following ‘ends-in’ replication.
BSCI-07 ACETYL-AMANTADINE AS A DIAGNOSTIC BIOMARKER IN PATIENTS WITH GLIOBLASTOMA
Authors: Mann Anmol , Safa Nur , Martell Emma , Luo Wenxia , Paul Prasanta , Abbasian Parandoush , Ahmed Rashid , Sitar Daniel , Sharif Tanveer , Lakowski Ted , Miller Donald , Pitz Marshall
Published: August 2022

AIM

Glioblastoma (GB) is the most common malignant primary brain tumor in adults, with a prognosis as poor as 12-15 months with standard treatment. Spermidine/spermine N1-acetyltransferase (SAT1) is a rate limiting enzyme in polyamine metabolism and has been reported to be upregulated in various cancers, including GB. Amantadine is a Health Canada approved drug that is acetylated by SAT1. We established a clinical trial in GB patients to determine if plasma and urine acetyl amantadine (Ac-Am) can be used to measure SAT1 activity and whether levels correlate with their tumor burden.

METHODS

A clinical trial was established that is currently active and recruiting patients with GB who receive care at CancerCare Manitoba. A total of n=8 participants have been recruited thus far. Participants’ blood and urine were collected two hours after ingesting amantadine (200 mg). Levels of serum and urine Ac-Am were measured using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Acetyl-amantadine levels were correlated with tumour bidimensional diameter and volume measured on MRI. In addition, expression of SAT1 was examined in various cultured GB cells (both cell lines and patient-derived cells) and correlated with Ac-Am.

RESULTS

Preliminary results indicate that the levels of plasma Ac-Am in study participants positively correlate with their initial tumor burden (r = 0.41). While transient increases in plasma and urine Ac-Am above baseline levels were observed, the clinical significance of these findings is undergoing further analysis. SAT1 was detected in all the GB tumor cells examined. The production of Ac-Am in cultured GB cells varied as a function of SAT1 expression.

SIGNIFICANCE

A diagnostic biomarker, such as Ac-Am, that could effectively and reliably detect tumor progression and recurrence would be an invaluable adjunct to MRI imaging and could significantly impact the timing of appropriate treatment and reduce patients’ morbidity and mortality.
CLRM-01 SUMMARY OF VIRTUAL TUMOR BOARD PLATFORMS AND IMPLEMENTATION IN NEURO-ONCOLOGY
Authors: Ekhator Chukwuyem , Kesari Santosh , Tadipatri Ramya , Fonkem Ekokobe , Grewal Jai
Published: August 2022

OBJECTIVE

To report a summary of a systematic review of virtual tumor boards and their implementation in neuro- oncology.

BACKGROUND

Virtual tumor board [VTB] platforms are an important aspect of cancer management. They enable easier access to a multidisciplinary team of experts. VTBs are an emerging resource across various cancer care networks in the United States.

DESIGN/METHODS

We performed a systematic search of all VTBs incorporating a platform designed for this specific role. We reviewed UC Davis Health Care Center VTB, Genomet, Oncolens, Navify Tumor Board, Medical University of South Carolina Virtual Tumor Board, Precision Oncology, Cancer Commons, Virtual Tumor Board, Virtual Tumor Board Tahoe Forest Cancer Center and MassiveBio. Summary data examined include year of launch, demographics, characteristics of cases, average response time, advantages, and how they handle protected health information.

RESULTS

30% of all VTBs examined launched in 2017. All had a HIPAA compliant online environment. Genomet VirtualBoard de-identifies all patient information; this is a virtual platform primarily focused on neuro-oncology cases. Cases involved a median of 5 specialists most commonly neuro-oncologists, neurosurgeons, radiation oncologists, molecular pathologists and neuroradiologists. Participants had an average of 23 cases reviewed. Case review revealed an age range from 6 months to 84 years [mean age 44.5 years] with 69.6% males and 30.4% females, 43.5% glioblastoma, 8.7% adenocarcinoma, 8.7% infratentorial tumor, <5% each: pineoblastoma, melanoma, hemangioblastoma and pilocytic astrocytoma. Average response time observed in all cases was ≤24 hours. Detailed metrics for numbers/percentages of brain tumor cases were not available for most other platforms at time of submission. This will be updated at presentation.

CONCLUSIONS

VTBs have allowed for quicker expert analysis of cases. This has resulted in an accelerated number of cases reviewed with a shortened communication time. More studies are needed to gain additional insight into user engagement metrics.
SPIN-02 LEVERAGING AN MRI-GUIDED LINEAR ACCELERATOR PLATFORM FOR POST-OPERATIVE STEREOTACTIC BODY RADIATION THERAPY (SBRT) OF SPINAL METASTASES
Authors: Marciscano Ariel E , Knisely Jonathan P S , Nagar Himanshu , Brandmaier Andrew , Pennell Ryan T , Speiser Michael , Kim Sungheon G , Coonce Madeline , Chen Shu Ling , Roytman Michelle , Lin Eaton , Ballman Karla V , Pannullo Susan C , Ramakrishna Rohan
Published: August 2022

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

Post-operative spine SBRT presents unique clinical challenges. Spinal hardware produces CT and high-field strength MRI artifacts that obscure visualization of the spinal cord and unresected disease. Existing workflows incorporate additional invasive procedures with CT myelogram and quality control for these procedures can introduce uncertainty into SBRT planning. Reducing metallic imaging artifact with a low-field strength (0.35 T) MRI integrated into a MR-Linac (MRL) may facilitate superior visualization of the spinal cord, improved target delineation and treatment localization. The primary objective is to determine the feasibility of MRL-based simulation workflow to facilitate MR-guided post-operative spine SBRT without the need for CT myelogram or CT-based target delineation.

MATERIALS/METHODS

A single-institution, single-arm interventional feasibility study is planned. A total of 10 patients who underwent surgical resection of solid tumor spinal metastases with an indication for post-operative SBRT will be enrolled and undergo radiation planning and treatment on a MRL platform that combines a 6MV Linac and 0.35 T on-board MRI system. Enrolled subjects will undergo CT and MR simulation followed by standard-of-care post-operative spine SBRT and follow-up spine imaging every 3 months.

RESULTS

The primary endpoint is feasibility of MR-guided post-operative spine SBRT without CT myelogram. Feasibility is defined as > 70% of participants with clinically acceptable visualization/delineation as determined by blinded dual neuroradiologist review for clinically acceptable visualization/delineation of organs-at-risk (OARs) and target volume(s). Exploratory endpoints involve radiation dosimetry analysis of OARs and target volumes as well as documenting the use of adaptive planning. Radiation site progression-free survival will be recorded at 6-months after SBRT.

CONCLUSION

If feasible, an MRL-based workflow for post-operative spine SBRT represents a patient-centric approach to improve efficiency, minimize treatment delays, and avoid invasive procedures that may improve clinical management of solid tumor spinal metastases.
LOCL-04 SAFETY AND FEASIBILITY OF RHENIUM-186 NANOLIPOSOME (186RNL) IN LEPTOMENINGEAL METASTASES [LM] PHASE 1/2A DOSE ESCALATION TRIAL
Authors: Brenner Andrew , Youssef Michael , LaFrance Norman , Hedrick Marc , Bao Ande , Phillips William , Patel Torel , Weinberg Jeffrey , Floyd John
Published: August 2022

BACKGROUND

LM is a devastating subarachnoid (SA) complication most commonly from breast, lung, melanoma, and gastrointestinal malignancies affecting 110,000 in the USA. Common therapies are radiation and SA/IV chemotherapy. Without treatment, survival is short with limited treatment options and better options urgently needed. 186RNL emits beta particles (with gamma-rays) with low dose rate and high radiation density. We report first results of the enrolling ReSPECT-LM phase 1/2a 186RNL-LM dose escalation trial.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Preclinical syngeneic rat model animals were 186RNLtreated at day15 with intraventricular186RNL(0.689 mCi) providing mean CSF-radiation absorbed dose=1,136 ±226Gy. 50% control animals[unloaded liposomes] and 100%186RNL treated animals were alive at 14days. At 4 weeks, 75% control animals and 37.5% treated animals had died. Based on this preclinical data and 186RNL recurrent glioma human experience, a phase I/2a dose escalation ReSPECT-LM Trial was initiated to characterize safety/tolerability of a single intrathecal(IT) 186RNL administration. Following, to identify maximum tolerated/feasible doses, 186RNL anti-tumor activity as a single agent in LM patients (breast and NSCLC), characterize 186RNL pK & dosimetry via Ommaya delivery, determine the overall response rate (ORR) for 186RNL treated patients based on CSF/radiographic findings, and describe survival distribution.

RESULTS

ReSPECT-LM is enrolling and 1st patient dosed (6.6 mCi186RNL, 5ml) via Ommaya reservoir. The dose was well-tolerated with no complaints/AEs as of Day 28 following treatment. Imaging and CSF tumor cell assays at pre &post-dose were performed. 186RNL gamma imaging confirmed rapid, complete and durable SA dose distribution through168hours. Pre-dose CSF tumor cell count was 70.77 cells/ml and following treatment, 39.79 cells/ml at 24, and ~6 cells/ml at both 48 &168hours.

CONCLUSION

186RNL’s unique formulation and characteristics may have promise for LM patients. An update of the ReSPECT-LM clinical trial will be provided.
MMAP-10 ADVERSE RADIATION EFFECT AFTER STEREOTACTIC RADIOSURGERY AND IMMUNOTHERAPY/TARGETED THERAPY FOR MELANOMA BRAIN METASTASES
Authors: Phuong Christina , Vasudevan Harish N , Chen William C , Raleigh David R , Fogh Shannon , Boreta Lauren , Daras Mariza , Tsai Katy , Nakamura Jean , Sneed Penny K , Braunstein Steve E
Published: August 2022

BACKGROUND

Safety of immunotherapy (IO) and targeted therapy (TT) with stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) in melanoma brain metastases (MBM) treatment remains incompletely understood. We aim to identify whether timing of IO/TT in relation to SRS impacts rates of adverse radiation effect (ARE) in MBM.

METHODS

Retrospective review of patients with MBM treated with SRS and IO/TT within three months prior and one year after SRS, from 2011-2021 at a single institution with at least two months MRI follow-up, identified 108 patients with 939 unique MBM meeting criteria. ARE was confirmed on independent imaging review. Concurrent IO/TT was defined as receiving IO/TT within 4 weeks before or after SRS. Data analysis was performed with the univariate cox proportional hazard model and Kaplan-Meier method.

RESULTS

Median radiographic follow-up from time of SRS was 16months. IO/TT was initiated prior to SRS for 681 (72.5%) metastases and after SRS for 258 (27.5%) metastases. 837 (89.1%) metastases received concurrent IO/TT. Most common IO agents were ipilimumab (n=416), nivolumab (n=448), and pembrolizumab (n=203). Most common TT agents were dabrafenib (n=548), trametinib (n=540), and vemurafenib (n=81). 2-year local progression-free survival (PFS), distant intracranial PFS, and overall survival were 94.1%, 33.3%, and 55.2%, respectively. 55 (5.9%) metastases in 33 (30.6%) patients experienced ARE. Median time to ARE was 5mo (IQR 4-9mo). Of those who experienced ARE, 22 (66.7%) patients were symptomatic and treated with steroids; 12 (36.4%) patients underwent surgical intervention. ARE rates were not impacted by concurrent vs nonconcurrent IO/TT (5.5% vs 4.9%, p=0.34) nor IO/TT initiation pre vs post SRS (6.0% vs 5.4%, p=0.61).

CONCLUSION

IO/TT in conjunction with SRS resulted in low ARE rates as compared to historical controls in the pre-IO/TT era. Timing of IO/TT in relation to SRS may not significantly impact ARE rates in MBM treatment.
NEIM-05 FEASIBILITY OF NAVIGATED TRANSCRANIAL MAGNETIC STIMULATION (NTMS) BASED DIFFUSION TENSOR IMAGING (DTI) TRACTOGRAPHY OF MOTOR PATHWAYS IN PATIENTS UNDERGOING STEREOTACTIC RADIOSURGERY: A CROSS-SECTIONAL DOSIMETRIC AND PATIENT OUTCOMES ANALYSIS
Authors: Bronk Julianna , Muir Matthew , Michener Hayley , Calbat Courtney , Mackin Dennis , Mitchell Drew , Train Benjamin , Farhat Maguy , Elliot Andrew , Prabhu Sujit , Prinsloo Sarah , Chung Caroline
Published: August 2022

BACKGROUND

No current dose limitations exist for the motor tracts during stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) planning due to challenges in localizing this region of interest by conventional imaging. Navigated Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (nTMS) is a non-invasive tool that utilizes electromyographic signal combined with magnetic resonance diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) to functionally map cortical motor tracts. Although nTMS is utilized for functional mapping prior to brain tumor resection, it has not been implemented in SRS planning.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the feasibility of performing nTMS-based DTI in patients treated with SRS and examine the relationship between dose to functionally-defined motor tracts and patient outcomes measured by objective hand function testing and patient reported outcomes (PROs).

METHODS

16 patients treated with SRS to a brain metastasis located near anatomically-defined motor tracts were enrolled on an IRB-approved clinical trial. At median follow-up of 5.4m after SRS, patients underwent nTMS testing, brain MRI with DTI, functional outcomes testing (Pinch Dynamometer,9-Hole Peg Test), and quality-of-life (QOL) PROs (EQ-5D-5L, MDASI-BT). nTMS-seeded DTI tractography was generated (Brainlab iPlan) and imported into GammaPlan for dosimetric evaluation.

RESULTS

Tractography reconstitution was attempted for 8/16 patients and successful in 7/8 (87.5%). One patient who had prior resection of a lesion in the right pre-central gyrus failed to map in the right cortex and was unable to complete functional testing for the affected extremity. Median Dmax to the treated motor tracts was 4.6Gy [0.5-13.4Gy]. Median Dmean was 0.9Gy [0-1.2Gy]. Increased Dmax correlated with deficits in lateral pinch strength (R2=0.76) and 9-Hole Peg testing time (R2=0.61). Increased Dmean correlated with increased MDASI-BT interference scores (R2=0.93) and EQ5D5L score (R2=0.94) indicating worsened QOL.

CONCLUSIONS

nTMS testing was feasible and dose to nTMS-defined motor tracts correlated with subjective and objective patient outcomes. Future steps will include characterization of motor tract dose tolerance for SRS.
NEIM-08 A PHASE II STUDY OF MULTIPARAMETRIC MR-GUIDED HIGH DOSE ADAPTIVE RADIOTHERAPY WITH CONCURRENT TEMOZOLOMIDE IN PATIENTS WITH NEWLY DIAGNOSED GLIOBLASTOMA
Authors: Kim Michelle , Aryal Madhava , Rosen Benjamin , Parmar Hemant , You Daekeun , Junck Larry , Leung Denise , Umemura Yoshie , Heth Jason , Al-Holou Wajd , Hollon Todd , Wahl Daniel , Lawrence Theodore , Cao Yue
Published: August 2022

BACKGROUND

Biologically-informed radiotherapy (RT) targeting an adversely prognostic hypercellular/hyperperfused imaging phenotype in patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma (GBM) may improve outcomes by identifying emerging regions of treatment resistance associated with survival (OS), and is under investigation as a target for individualized, adaptive RT in an ongoing Phase II trial (NCT04574856).

METHODS

In this single-arm study, patients with newly diagnosed GBM following resection undergo dose-intensified chemoRT targeting the residual hypercellular (TVHCV, mean contralateral normal brain+2SD) and hyperperfused tumor volume (TVCBV, contralateral normal frontal grey matter+1SD) identified using high b-value diffusion-weighted and dynamic contrast-enhanced perfusion MRI. TVHCV/TVCBV is treated to 50 Gy in 20 fractions (2.5 Gy/fraction), and following mid-RT reassessment, the persistent and developing TVHCV/TVCBV is treated to 30 Gy in 10 fractions (3 Gy/fraction). The primary endpoint is improvement in OS, with planned interim safety analysis.

RESULTS

Since October 2020, 16 of 30 patients have been enrolled. Median age was 58 years (range, 29-75) and 69% were male. No patient underwent biopsy, and 50% had gross total resection; 23% had MGMT methylated tumors, and all except 2 were IDHwt. Median TVHCV/TVCBV was 6.9 cc (range, 1.9-42.8) pre-RT and 30% (range, 1-72%) was nonenhancing. By mid-RT, TVHCV/TVCBV was reduced to 4.2 cc (range, 0.8-34.3) and 47% (range, 3-74%) was nonenhancing. The TVHCV/TVCBV persisting from pre- to mid-RT was 2.3 cc (range, 0-24.2), with an additional 1.8 cc (range, 0.3-20.6) newly developing outside of the initial region. All patients underwent adaptive replanning for boost without interruption. Planned interim analysis determined an acceptable rate of neurologic toxicity and safety to continue enrollment.

CONCLUSION

Individualized, adaptive radiotherapy using an advanced imaging biomarker to assess emerging and especially non-enhancing regions of treatment resistance in patients with GBM is feasible, with short term safety in an early cohort and longer-term efficacy outcomes anticipated with ongoing accrual.
Non-daily Cigarette Smoking: Stability and Transition to Abstinence in Young Adults
Authors: Doran Neal , Myers Mark , Luczak Susan , Trim Ryan , Strong David , Tully Lyric
Published: August 2022

Introduction

There is increasing recognition that non-daily cigarette smoking is common in early adulthood but less is known about its stability over time, or what influences transitions to heavier or nonsmoking. We examined the stability of non-daily smoking in a sample of young adults, and tested whether social and cognitive factors predicted transitions to other smoking patterns over time.

Aims and Methods

Participants were 579 young adults (18–24 years old at enrollment, 52% male) who were non-daily and never-daily cigarette smokers and California residents. Participants completed 13 waves of assessment over 3 years. We used descriptive statistics to evaluate the frequency of consistent abstinence, defined as no cigarette use at two consecutive waves and no cigarette use at any subsequent waves. Cox and logistic regression were used to test predictors of consistent abstinence.

Results

We found that 55% of participants smoked intermittently throughout the study, while 43% were consistently abstinent by the end of the study; few transitioned to daily smoking. Stopping smoking was associated with having fewer smoking friends, smoking less in social situations, having lower positive reinforcement expectancies for smoking, and having stronger intent to quit. Post hoc analyses indicated those who stopped smoking tended to report reductions in positive reinforcement expectancies and increased intent to quit in the 6 months before stopping.

Conclusions

Findings suggest a substantial minority of young adult non-daily smokers may stop on their own, but that the majority continue smoking and may require intervention. Interventions for this population should address social motives and reinforcement expectancies.

Implications

The majority of young adults who are non-daily cigarette smokers appear to maintain this habit over an extended period and may require intervention. Interventions that focus on reducing expectancies for positive effects of and social motives for cigarette use and on increasing intent to quit smoking may be most effective.
Patient Engagement by the Tobacco Quitline After Electronic Referrals
Authors: Khanna Niharika , Klyushnenkova Elena N , Quinn David , Wolfe Sara
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Referrals through the electronic health record (EHR) system provide an efficient evidence-based method to connect patients to the Tobacco Quitline. However, patients frequently do not respond to Quitline phone calls or accept services. The goal of this study was to characterize factors associated with successful engagement with Quitline following e-referrals by physicians in Maryland.

Aims and Methods

This is a cross-sectional study with hierarchical data modeling. Data for 1790 patients e-referred in 2018–2019 by the University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS) were analyzed. Patients’ engagement was assessed using a generalized estimating equation multivariable regression model for ordinal outcomes at two levels: Picking up a phone call from Quitline (1-800-QUIT-NOW) and enrollment in tobacco cessation programs.

Results

Older age, female gender, black race, low socioeconomic status, and provider’s skills were significantly associated with successful outcomes of Quitline referral. The engagement with Quitline was higher in black non-Hispanic patients compared to other racial/ethnic groups (phone call response odds ratio [OR] = 1.99, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.35% to 2.93% and service acceptance OR = 1.89, 95% CI = 1.28% to 2.79%). Patients residing in socioeconomically deprived areas were more likely to respond to Quitline phone calls compared to those from affluent neighborhoods (OR = 1.52, 95% CI = 1.03% to 2.25%). Patients referred by faculty or attending physicians were more likely to respond compared to those referred by residents (OR = 1.23, 95% CI 1.04, 1.44, p = .0141).

Conclusions

Multiple factors impact successful engagement with Quitline. Additional means to improve Quitline engagement success may include focused messaging on tobacco cessation benefits to patients, and skillful counseling by the provider.

Implications

Implementation of the clinical decision support (CDS) tool for electronic referrals to the Tobacco Quitline at the UMMS was successful in providing evidence-based free service to elderly patients and socioeconomically disadvantaged racial and ethnic minorities. The CDS also served to engage physicians in conversation about tobacco use and cessation with every tobacco-using patient. Curricular content for physicians in training should be enriched to expand tobacco use and treatment.
Wavelets and sparsity for Faraday tomography
Authors: Cooray Suchetha , Takeuchi Tsutomu T , Ideguchi Shinsuke , Akahori Takuya , Miyashita Yoshimitsu , Takahashi Keitaro
Published: August 2022

Faraday tomography through broad-band polarimetry can provide crucial information on magnetized astronomical objects, such as quasars, galaxies, or galaxy clusters. However, the limited wavelength coverage of the instruments requires that we solve an ill-posed inverse problem when we want to obtain the Faraday dispersion function (FDF), a tomographic distribution of the magneto-ionic media along the line of sight. This paper explores the use of wavelet transforms and the sparsity of the transformed FDFs in the form of wavelet shrinkage (WS) for finding better solutions to the inverse problem. We recently proposed the Constraining and Restoring iterative Algorithm for Faraday Tomography (CRAFT; Cooray et al. 2021, MNRAS, 500, 5129), a new flexible algorithm that showed significant improvements over the popular methods such as Rotation Measure Synthesis. In this work, we introduce CRAFT + WS, a new version of CRAFT incorporating the ideas of wavelets and sparsity. CRAFT + WS exhibits significant improvements over the original CRAFT when tested for a complex FDF of a realistic Galactic model. Reconstructions of FDFs demonstrate super-resolution in Faraday depth, uncovering previously unseen Faraday complexities in observations. The proposed approach will be necessary for effective cosmic magnetism studies using the Square Kilometre Array and its precursors. The code is made publicly available at 〈https://github.com/suchethac/craft〉.
Transcriptional network underpinning ploidy-related elevated leaf potassium in neo-tetraploids
Authors: Fischer Sina , Flis Paulina , Zhao Fang-Jie , Salt David E
Published: August 2022

Whole-genome duplication generates a tetraploid from a diploid. Newly created tetraploids (neo-tetraploids) of Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) have elevated leaf potassium (K), compared to their diploid progenitor. Micro-grafting has previously established that this elevated leaf K is driven by processes within the root. Here, mutational analysis revealed that the K+-uptake transporters K+ TRANSPORTER 1 (AKT1) and HIGH AFFINITY K+ TRANSPORTER 5 (HAK5) are not necessary for the difference in leaf K caused by whole-genome duplication. However, the endodermis and salt overly sensitive and abscisic acid-related signaling were necessary for the elevated leaf K in neo-tetraploids. Contrasting the root transcriptomes of neo-tetraploid and diploid wild-type and mutants that suppress the neo-tetraploid elevated leaf K phenotype allowed us to identify a core set of 92 differentially expressed genes associated with the difference in leaf K between neo-tetraploids and their diploid progenitor. This core set of genes connected whole-genome duplication with the difference in leaf K between neo-tetraploids and their diploid progenitors. The set of genes is enriched in functions such as cell wall and Casparian strip development and ion transport in the endodermis, root hairs, and procambium. This gene set provides tools to test the intriguing idea of recreating the physiological effects of whole-genome duplication within a diploid genome.
High-fidelity control of spin ensemble dynamics via artificial intelligence: from quantum computing to NMR spectroscopy and imaging
Authors: Subrahmanian Manu Veliparambil , Pavuluri KowsalyaDevi , Olivieri Cristina , Veglia Gianluigi
Published: August 2022

High-fidelity control of spin ensemble dynamics is essential for many research areas, spanning from quantum computing and radio-frequency (RF) engineering to NMR spectroscopy and imaging. However, attaining robust and high-fidelity spin operations remains an unmet challenge. Using an evolutionary algorithm and artificial intelligence (AI), we designed new RF pulses with customizable spatial or temporal field inhomogeneity compensation. Compared with the standard RF shapes, the new AI-generated pulses show superior performance for bandwidth, robustness, and tolerance to field imperfections. As a benchmark, we constructed a spin entanglement operator for the weakly coupled two-spin-1/2 system of 13CHCl3, achieving high-fidelity transformations under multiple inhomogeneity sources. We then generated band-selective and ultra-broadband RF pulses typical of biomolecular NMR spectroscopy. When implemented in multipulse NMR experiments, the AI-generated pulses significantly increased the sensitivity of medium-size and large protein spectra relative to standard pulse sequences. Finally, we applied the new pulses to typical imaging experiments, showing a remarkable tolerance to changes in the RF field. These AI-generated RF pulses can be directly implemented in quantum information, NMR spectroscopy of biomolecules, magnetic resonance imaging techniques for in vivo and materials sciences.
It was the best of times, it was the worst of times: a tale of two cities—Beijing and Shanghai—why the divergent COVID-19 control outcomes?
Authors: Su Z , Cheshmehzangi A , McDonnell D , Bentley B L , Ahmad J , Šegalo S , da Veiga C P , Xiang Y -T
Published: August 2022

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) both creates and complicates public health challenges. Yet, the pandemic also provides a unique lens for dissecting complex issues in global health that could benefit society in the long run. In this article, we discuss the underlying reasons that can help explain the divergent COVID-19 control outcomes between Beijing and Shanghai—two advanced metropolises that are similar in their municipal capacity, administrative capability and pandemic strategy. We hope insights from this investigation contribute to the development of disease prevention systems, such as context-specific and data-driven public health strategies that could yield optimal pandemic control outcomes with minimal unintended consequences, both amid and beyond COVID-19.
Long-term health outcomes of early menarche in women: an umbrella review
Authors: Lee Jeong-Seon , Lee Young Ah , Shin Choong Ho , Suh Dong In , Lee Yun Jeong , Yon Dong Keon
Published: August 2022

Background

There is limited comprehensive evidence on the potential association between early menarche and subsequent health outcomes.

Aim

To evaluate the existing evidence for the association of early menarche with later health outcomes and assesse the strength and validity of the evidence for these associations.

Design

Umbrella review.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews and Google Scholar, and manually screened retrieved references to find systematic reviews and meta-analyses from inception to July 2021. Early menarche was defined by taking into account ethnicity and birth year, and the outcomes were long-term consequences in adulthood.

Results

Thirteen reviews encompassing 283 original articles and over 6.8 million participants from 39 countries across 5 continents were included. In categorical outcomes, early menarche was associated with metabolic syndrome (n = 37 543 pooled adjusted relative risk [aRR] 1.56, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.33, 1.83; high certainty [Hi]), endometrial cancer (n = 874 188, aRR 1.40, 95% CI 1.17, 1.68; Hi), type 2 diabetes mellitus/impaired glucose tolerance (n = 1 185 444, aRR 1.30, 95% CI 1.19, 1.42; Hi), breast cancer (n = 103 574, aRR 1.19, 95% CI 1.06, 1.33; Hi), death from all causes (n = 152 747, aRR 1.11, 95% CI 1.03, 1.19; Hi), obesity (n = 54 006, aRR 1.68, 95% CI 1.53, 1.84; moderate certainty [Mod]), gestational diabetes mellitus (n = 48 535, aRR 1.32, 95% CI 1.09, 1.58; Mod), hypertension (n = 1 682 689, aRR 1.24, 95% CI 1.20, 1.29; Mod), endometriosis (n = 885 390, aRR 1.22, 95% CI 1.09, 1.37; Mod), ovarian cancer (n = 1 022 451, aRR 1.17, 95% CI 1.04, 1.31; Mod) and asthma (n = 22 859, aRR 1.31, 95% CI 1.09, 1.57; low certainty [Lo]). For continuous outcomes, early menarche was associated with increased body mass index (BMI) in adults ≥40 years of age (n = 121 943, adjusted pooled standardized mean difference [aSMD] 0.30, 95% CI 0.28, 0.32; Mod), BMI in adults <40 years of age (n = 124 728, aSMD 0.39, 95% CI 0.36, 0.43; Mod), serum fasting insulin level (n = 17 020, aSMD 0.52, 95% CI 0.48, 0.57; Mod) and homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (n = 7925, aSMD 0.27, 95% CI 0.19, 0.35; Mod).

Conclusion

We found varied levels of evidence for the association between early menarche and the development of subsequent health problems. Our results recommend that physicians should pay attention to these associations, as early menarche can be a potential indicator of metabolic disorders and female-specific cancer and cause death in women.
The Effect of Innovation Similarity on Asset Prices: Evidence from Patents’ Big Data
Authors: Bekkerman Ron , Fich Eliezer M , Khimich Natalya V
Published: August 2022

Through textual analyses of 7.7 million patents, we develop a novel intercompany innovation similarity measure which enables us to find that technologically connected firms cross-predict one another’s returns. Investors impound information about firms’ technological connectedness, although not immediately and fully. Buying (shorting) shares of technological peers earning high (low) returns during the previous month yields a 1.29% monthly return. Firms’ return predictability increases with patent complexity or limited technological disclosures but decreases with better information transparency. Results suggest that investor inattention explains technology momentum. Unlike momentum stemming from simpler, class-based technological links, our Big Data text-based return predictability remains active. (JEL G11, G12, G14, O31, C55)

Authors have furnished an Internet Appendix, which is available on the Oxford University Press Web site next to the link to the final published paper online.
Experience with the use of mycophenolate mofetil in juvenile idiopathic inflammatory myopathies
Authors: Varnier Giulia Camilla , Consolaro Alessandro , Cheng Iek Leng , Silva Riveiro Alicia , Pilkington Clarissa , Ravelli Angelo
Published: August 2022

Objective

The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of MMF in juvenile idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (JIIMs).

Methods

Patients diagnosed with JIIM and treated with MMF enrolled in the Juvenile Dermatomyositis Research Group (JDRG) in the UK or followed at the Giannina Gaslini Institute in Genoa, Italy, were included. The following information was collected retrospectively at MMF initiation, at 3, 6 and 12 months after treatment start, and at last follow-up visit: clinical manifestations, laboratory data, physicians’ subjective assessment of disease activity, standardized outcome measures of muscle strength/endurance, cutaneous disease activity, physical function, global disease activity, cumulative damage, and ongoing treatment.

Results

Of the 29 patients included, 23 had juvenile DM and 6 had overlap myositis. During administration of MMF, improvement in measures of muscle strength, skin disease activity, and overall disease activity was seen, with an increase in the frequency of normal scores for Manual Muscle Test-8 from 50.0% to 83.3%, Childhood Myositis Activity Score from 53.5% to 88.9%, muscle component of DAS from 55.2% to 84.2%, skin component of DAS from 31.0% to 42.1%, visual analogue scale for skin disease activity from 25.0% to 47.4%, and visual analogue scale for overall disease activity from 7.1% to 42.1%. The number of patients with inactive disease increased from 10.3% at baseline to 68.5% at last follow-up. CS dose was significantly reduced, from 0.3 to 0.1 mg/kg/day. No relevant side effects were reported.

Conclusion

Our experience suggests that MMF is a valuable therapeutic option for the management of JIIM.
The Coming Rise in Residential Inflation
Authors: Bolhuis Marijn A , Cramer Judd N L , Summers Lawrence H
Published: August 2022

We study how the recent run-up in housing and rental prices affects the outlook for inflation in the USA. Housing held down the overall inflation in 2021. Despite record growth in private market-based measures of home prices and rents, the government-measured residential services inflation was only 4% for the 12 months ending in January 2022. After explaining the mechanical cause for this divergence, we estimate that, if past relationships hold, the residential inflation components of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and Personal Consumption Expenditure (PCE) are likely to move close to 7% during 2022. These findings imply that housing will make a significant contribution to overall inflation in 2022, ranging from one percentage point for headline PCE, to 2.6 percentage points for core CPI. We expect residential inflation to remain elevated in 2023.
The boundary within: Are applicants of Southern European descent discriminated against in Northern European job markets?
Authors: Polavieja Javier G , Fischer-Souan Maricia
Published: August 2022

In the aftermath of the Euro debt crisis, negative stereotypes about Southern Europeans were (re)activated across Northern European countries. Because these stereotypes make explicit reference to productivity-relevant traits, they have the potential to influence employers’ hiring decisions. We draw on a sub-sample of the Growth, Equal Opportunities, Migration and Markets discrimination study (GEMM) to investigate the responses of over 3500 firms based in Germany, the Netherlands and Norway to identical (fictitious) young applicants born to Greek, Spanish, Italian and native-born parents. Using French descendants as a placebo treatment and sub-Saharan African descendants as a benchmark treatment, we find severe levels of hiring discrimination against Southern European descendants in both Norway and the Netherlands, but not in Germany. Discrimination in Norway seems largely driven by employers’ preferences for applicants of native descent, while in the Netherlands discrimination seems specifically targeted against Greek and Spanish descendants. Dutch employers’ propensity to penalize these two groups seems driven by information deficits.
Austerity Policies and the Strategic Silencing of Their Gendered Effects: Evidence from Spain
Authors: Rafstedt My
Published: August 2022

Austerity measures are commonly adopted to address economic crises. Such measures have particularly adverse effects for women, but studies have found these consequences to be strategically silenced. I explore the conditions under which the gendered effects of austerity are silenced, and by whom. Drawing on an original dataset of 9,420 newspaper articles (2010–2020) addressing austerity measures introduced in Spain, I find that politicians from left parties critique the labor reforms for negatively affecting women’s working conditions, while conservative politicians rarely address the reforms from a gender perspective. The party political difference is conditioned by government–opposition dynamics, and the salience of gender perspectives varies with election cycles. These findings suggest that a gender lens is more likely to be present in the public debate on economic policy-making when it is strategically beneficial for garnering political support.