bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effects of Statins on Cognitive Performance Are Mediated by Low-Density Lipoprotein, C-Reactive Protein, and Blood Glucose Concentrations
Authors: Gentreau Mélissa , Rukh Gull , Miguet Maud , Clemensson Laura E , Alsehli Ahmed M , Titova Olga E , Schiöth Helgi B
Published: July 2023

Statins are widely used for cardiovascular disease prevention but their effects on cognition remain unclear. Statins reduce cholesterol concentration and have been suggested to provide both beneficial and detrimental effects. Our aim was to investigate the cross-sectional and longitudinal association between statin use and cognitive performance, and whether blood low-density lipoprotein, high-density lipoprotein, triglycerides, glucose, C-reactive protein, and vitamin D biomarkers mediated this association. We used participants from the UK biobank aged 40–69 without neurological and psychiatric disorders (n = 147 502 and n = 24 355, respectively). We performed linear regression to evaluate the association between statin use and cognitive performance and, mediation analysis to quantify the total, direct, indirect effects and the proportion meditated by blood biomarkers. Statin use was associated with lower cognitive performance at baseline (β = −0.40 [−0.53, −0.28], p = <.0001), and this association was mediated by low-density lipoprotein (proportion mediated = 51.4%, p = .002), C-reactive protein (proportion mediated = −11%, p = .006) and blood glucose (proportion mediated = 2.6%, p = .018) concentrations. However, statin use was not associated with cognitive performance, measured 8 years later (β = −0.003 [−0.11, 0.10], p = .96). Our findings suggest that statins are associated with lower short-term cognitive performance by lowering low-density lipoprotein and raising blood glucose concentrations, and better performance by lowering C-reactive protein concentrations. In contrast, statins have no effect on long-term cognition and remain beneficial in reducing cardiovascular risk factors.
Predicting Slow Walking Speed From a Pooled Cohort Analysis: Sarcopenia Definitions, Agreement, and Prevalence in Australia and New Zealand
Authors: Zanker Jesse , Scott David , Szoeke Cassandra , Vogrin Sara , Patel Sheena , Blackwell Terri , Bird Stefanie , Kirk Ben , Center Jacqueline , Alajlouni Dima A , Gill Tiffany , Jones Graeme , Pasco Julie A , Waters Debra L , Cawthon Peggy M , Duque Gustavo
Published: July 2023

Background

Recent operational definitions of sarcopenia have not been replicated and compared in Australia and New Zealand (ANZ) populations. We aimed to identify sarcopenia measures that discriminate ANZ adults with slow walking speed (<0.8 m/s) and determine the agreement between the Sarcopenia Definitions and Outcomes Consortium (SDOC) and revised European Working Group for Sarcopenia in Older People (EWGSOP2) operational definitions of sarcopenia.

Methods

Eight studies comprising 8 100 ANZ community-dwelling adults (mean age ± standard deviation, 62.0 ± 14.4 years) with walking speed, grip strength (GR), and lean mass data were combined. Replicating the SDOC methodology, 15 candidate variables were included in sex-stratified classification and regression tree models and receiver operating characteristic curves on a pooled cohort with complete data to identify variables and cut points discriminating slow walking speed (<0.8 m/s). Agreement and prevalence estimates were compared using Cohen’s Kappa (CK).

Results

Receiver operating characteristic curves identified GR as the strongest variable for discriminating slow from normal walking speed in women (GR <20.50 kg, area under curve [AUC] = 0.68) and men (GR <31.05 kg, AUC = 0.64). Near-perfect agreement was found between the derived ANZ cut points and SDOC cut points (CK 0.8–1.0). Sarcopenia prevalence ranged from 1.5% (EWGSOP2) to 37.2% (SDOC) in women and 1.0% (EWGSOP2) to 9.1% (SDOC) in men, with no agreement (CK <0.2) between EWGSOP2 and SDOC.

Conclusions

Grip strength is the primary discriminating characteristic for slow walking speed in ANZ women and men, consistent with findings from the SDOC. Sarcopenia Definitions and Outcomes Consortium and EWGSOP2 definitions showed no agreement suggesting these proposed definitions measure different characteristics and identify people with sarcopenia differently.
Racial disparities in inpatient palliative care consultation among frail older patients undergoing high-risk elective surgical procedures in the United States: a cross-sectional study of the national inpatient sample
Authors: Kim Kyung Mi , Muench Ulrike , Maki John E , Yefimova Maria , Oh Anna , Jopling Jeffrey K , Rinaldo Francesca , Shah Nirav R , Giannitrapani Karleen Frances , Williams Michelle Y , Lorenz Karl A
Published: July 2023

Surgical interventions are common among seriously ill older patients, with nearly one-third of older Americans facing surgery in their last year of life. Despite the potential benefits of palliative care among older surgical patients undergoing high-risk surgical procedures, palliative care in this population is underutilized and little is known about potential disparities by race/ethnicity and how frailty my affect such disparities. The aim of this study was to examine disparities in palliative care consultations by race/ethnicity and assess whether patients’ frailty moderated this association. Drawing on a retrospective cross-sectional study of inpatient surgical episodes using the National Inpatient Sample of the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project from 2005 to 2019, we found that frail Black patients received palliative care consultations least often, with the largest between-group adjusted difference represented by Black–Asian/Pacific Islander frail patients of 1.6 percentage points, controlling for sociodemographic, comorbidities, hospital characteristics, procedure type, and year. No racial/ethnic difference in the receipt of palliative care consultations was observed among nonfrail patients. These findings suggest that, in order to improve racial/ethnic disparities in frail older patients undergoing high-risk surgical procedures, palliative care consultations should be included as the standard of care in clinical care guidelines.
Myofibrillar myopathy hallmarks associated with ZAK deficiency
Authors: Stonadge Amy , Genzor Aitana V , Russell Alex , Hamed Mohamed F , Romero Norma , Evans Gareth , Pownall Mary Elizabeth , Bekker-Jensen Simon , Blanco Gonzalo
Published: July 2023

The ZAK gene encodes two functionally distinct kinases, ZAKα and ZAKβ. Homozygous loss of function mutations affecting both isoforms causes a congenital muscle disease. ZAKβ is the only isoform expressed in skeletal muscle and is activated by muscle contraction and cellular compression. The ZAKβ substrates in skeletal muscle or the mechanism whereby ZAKβ senses mechanical stress remains to be determined. To gain insights into the pathogenic mechanism, we exploited ZAK-deficient cell lines, zebrafish, mice and a human biopsy. ZAK-deficient mice and zebrafish show a mild phenotype. In mice, comparative histopathology data from regeneration, overloading, ageing and sex conditions indicate that while age and activity are drivers of the pathology, ZAKβ appears to have a marginal role in myoblast fusion in vitro or muscle regeneration in vivo. The presence of SYNPO2, BAG3 and Filamin C (FLNC) in a phosphoproteomics assay and extended analyses suggested a role for ZAKβ in the turnover of FLNC. Immunofluorescence analysis of muscle sections from mice and a human biopsy showed evidence of FLNC and BAG3 accumulations as well as other myofibrillar myopathy markers. Moreover, endogenous overloading of skeletal muscle exacerbated the presence of fibres with FLNC accumulations in mice, indicating that ZAKβ signalling is necessary for an adaptive turnover of FLNC that allows for the normal physiological response to sustained mechanical stress. We suggest that accumulation of mislocalized FLNC and BAG3 in highly immunoreactive fibres contributes to the pathogenic mechanism of ZAK deficiency.
DNA methylation mediated by RdDM pathway and demethylation affects furanone accumulation through regulation of QUINONE OXIDOREDUCTASE in strawberry
Authors: Li Yunduan , Shi Yanna , Li Yichen , Lu Jiao , Sun Yunfan , Zhang Yuanyuan , Chen Wenbo , Yang Xiaofang , Grierson Donald , Lang Zhaobo , Jiang Guihua , Chen Kunsong
Published: July 2023

Recently, increasing evidence suggests that DNA methylation plays a crucial role in fruit ripening. However, the role of DNA methylation in regulating specific traits, such as flavor, remains unclear. Here, we report a role of DNA methylation in affecting furanone biosynthesis in strawberry. Strawberry quinone oxidoreductase (FaQR) is a key enzyme in furanone biosynthesis. There are four FaQR homologs in strawberry cultivar ‘Yuexin’, and one of them, FaQR3, contributes ~50% of FaQR transcripts, indicating a major role of FaQR3 in furanone biosynthesis. Through characterization of levels of DNA methylation and FaQR3 transcript and furanone contents during fruit ripening and after the application of DNA methylation inhibitor, we found that the DNA methylation level of the FaQR3 promoter was negatively correlated with FaQR3 expression and furanone accumulation, suggesting that DNA methylation may be involved in furanone biosynthesis through adjusting FaQR3 expression, and responded to different temperatures consistently. In addition, transient expression of a gene in the RNA-directed DNA methylation (RdDM) pathway, FaAGO4, and enrichment analysis of the 24-nucleotide siRNAs suggested that DNA methylation in the FaQR3 promoter is mediated by the RdDM pathway. Transient RNA interference (RNAi) of FaDML indicated that the demethylation pathway may be involved in regulating furanone accumulation. These findings provide new insights into the role of DNA methylation and demethylation in affecting flavor quality in strawberry during fruit ripening.
Alcohol intake including wine drinking is associated with decreased platelet reactivity in a large population sample
Authors: Pashek Robin E , Nkambule Bongani B , Chan Melissa V , Thibord Florian , Lachapelle Amber R , Cunha Jason , Chen Ming-Huei , Johnson Andrew D
Published: July 2023

Background

Alcohol consumption is linked to decreased platelet function. Whether this link is dependent on sex or type of beverage remains unclear.

Methods

Cross-sectional data were obtained from the Framingham Heart Study (N = 3427). Alcohol consumption was assessed by using standardized medical history and Harvard semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaires. Five bioassays measured 120 platelet reactivity traits across agonists in whole-blood and platelet-rich plasma samples. Linear mixed-effects models adjusted for age, sex and aspirin use, hypertension, body mass index, cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein, triglycerides, smoking and diabetes evaluated associations between platelet reactivity and alcohol consumption. Beta effects, the regression coefficients that estimate the amount of change in each unit of the predictor variable whereas all other predictor variables remain fixed, for heavy alcohol consumption were compared with effects of aspirin use.

Results

Alcohol consumption was associated with decreased platelet reactivity, with more associations among wine and liquor compared with beer. Many platelet–alcohol associations in the full sample (86%, P < 0.01) had larger effect sizes in females. Lower light transmission aggregometry adenosine diphosphate (1.82 µM) maximum aggregation (P = 2.6E-3, 95% CI = –0.07, –0.02, β = –0.042) and area under the curve (P = 7.7E-3, 95% CI = –0.07, –0.01, β = –0.039) were associated with white wine consumption; however, red wine had no associations with platelet reactivity. The effect of aspirin use was on average 11.3 (±4.0) times greater than that of heavy drinking in our full sample.

Conclusions

We confirm associations between alcohol consumption and decreased platelet reactivity. Effects appeared larger for liquor and wine intake and in our female cohort. Red wine consumption is not associated with lower platelet function, contrasting with prior population studies. Although we report an inhibitory relationship between alcohol intake and platelet function, these effects appear much smaller than that of aspirin use.
Geometric Morphometric Assessment of Toe Shape in Forest and Urban Lizards Following Hurricane Disturbances
Authors: Michaud R , Hagey T J , De León L F , Revell L J , Avilés-Rodríguez K J
Published: July 2023

Synopsis

Evidence suggests that hurricanes can influence the evolution of organisms, with phenotypic traits involved in adhesion, such as the toepads of arboreal lizards, being particularly susceptible to natural selection imposed by hurricanes. To investigate this idea, we quantified trait variation before and after Hurricanes Irma and Maria (2017) in forest and urban populations of the Puerto Rican lizard Anolis cristatellus. We found that the hurricanes affected toe morphology differently between forest and urban sites. In particular, toepads of the forefeet were longer and narrower in forest, but wider in urban populations, compared to pre-hurricane measures. Toepads of the hind feet were larger in area following the hurricanes. Fore and rear toes increased in length following the hurricane. There were no changes in the number of lamellae scales or lamellae spacing, but lamellae 6–11 of the forefeet shifted proximally following the hurricane. We also measured clinging performance and toe shape. We found that toepad area and toe lengths were stronger predictors of adhesive forces than toepad shape. Our results highlight an interaction between urbanization and hurricanes, demonstrating the importance to consider how urban species will respond to extreme weather events. Additionally, our different results for fore and rear feet highlight the importance of evaluating both of these traits when measuring the morphological response to hurricanes in arboreal lizards.
Loading dose plus continuous/extended infusion versus intermittent bolus of β-lactams for the treatment of Gram-negative bacteria bloodstream infections: a propensity score-adjusted retrospective cohort study
Authors: Bavaro Davide Fiore , Belati Alessandra , Diella Lucia , Frallonardo Luisa , Guido Giacomo , Papagni Roberta , Pellegrino Carmen , Brindicci Gaetano , De Gennaro Nicolò , Di Gennaro Francesco , Denicolò Sofia , Ronga Luigi , Mosca Adriana , Pomarico Francesco , Dell’Aera Maria , Stufano Monica , Dalfino Lidia , Grasso Salvatore , Saracino Annalisa
Published: July 2023

Background

Optimal β-lactam dosing for the treatment of Gram-negative bacteria bloodstream infections (GNB-BSIs) remains a debated issue. Herein, the efficacy and safety of a loading dose (LD) followed by extended/continuous infusion (EI/CI) versus intermittent bolus (IB) of these drugs for the treatment of GNB-BSIs was evaluated.

Methods

This is a retrospective observational study enrolling patients with GNB-BSIs treated with β-lactams from 1 October 2020 to 31 March 2022. The 30 day infection-related mortality rate was assessed with Cox regression, while mortality risk reduction was evaluated by an inverse probability of treatment weighting regression adjustment (IPTW-RA) model.

Results

Overall, 224 patients were enrolled: 140 and 84 in the IB and EI/CI groups, respectively. β-Lactam regimens were chosen according to pathogen antibiogram, clinical judgement and current guidelines. Interestingly, the LD + EI/CI regimen was associated with a significant lower mortality rate (17% versus 32%, P = 0.011). Similarly, β-lactam LD + EI/CI was significantly associated with a reduced risk of mortality at multivariable Cox regression [adjusted HR (aHR) = 0.46; 95%CI = 0.22–0.98; P = 0.046]. Finally, the IPTW-RA (adjusted for multiple covariates) was performed, showing a significant risk reduction in the overall population [−14% (95% CI = −23% to −5%)]; at the subgroup restricted analysis, a significant risk reduction (>15%) was observed in the case of GNB-BSI in severely immunocompromised patients (P = 0.003), for SOFA score > 6 (P = 0.014) and in septic shock (P = 0.011).

Conclusions

The use of LD + EI/CI of β-lactams in patients with a GNB-BSI may be associated with reduced mortality; also in patients with severe presentation of infection or with additional risk factors, such as immunodepression.
Ceftolozane/tazobactam heteroresistance in cystic fibrosis-relatedPseudomonas aeruginosainfections
Authors: Monogue Marguerite L , Sanders James M , Pybus Christine A , Kim Jiwoong , Zhan Xiaowei , Clark Andrew E , Greenberg David E
Published: July 2023

Objectives

Cystic fibrosis (CF) patients are often colonized with Pseudomonas aeruginosa. During treatment, P. aeruginosa can develop subpopulations exhibiting variable in vitro antimicrobial (ABX) susceptibility patterns. Heteroresistance (HR) may underlie reported discrepancies between in vitro susceptibility results and clinical responses to various ABXs. Here, we sought to examine the presence and nature of P. aeruginosa polyclonal HR (PHR) and monoclonal HR (MHR) to ceftolozane/tazobactam in isolates originating from CF pulmonary exacerbations.

Methods

This was a single-centre, non-controlled study. Two hundred and forty-six P. aeruginosa isolates from 26 adult CF patients were included. PHR was defined as the presence of different ceftolozane/tazobactam minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values among P. aeruginosa isolates originating from a single patient specimen. Population analysis profiles (PAPs) were performed to assess the presence of MHR, defined as ≥4-fold change in the ceftolozane/tazobactam MIC from a single P. aeruginosa colony.

Results

Sixteen of 26 patient specimens (62%) contained PHR P. aeruginosa populations. Of these 16 patients, 6 (23%) had specimens in which PHR P. aeruginosa isolates exhibited ceftolozane/tazobactam MICs with categorical differences (i.e. susceptible versus resistant) compared to results reported as part of routine care. One isolate, PSA 1311, demonstrated MHR. Canonical ceftolozane/tazobactam resistance genes were not found in the MHR isolates (MHR PSA 1311 or PHR PSA 6130).

Conclusions

Ceftolozane/tazobactam PHR exists among P. aeruginosa isolates in this work, and approximately a quarter of these populations contained isolates with ceftolozane/tazobactam susceptibiilty interpretations different from what was reported clinically, supporting concerns surrounding the utility of traditional susceptibility testing methodology in the setting of CF specimens. Genome sequencing of isolates with acquired MHR to ceftolozane/tazobactam revealed variants of unknown significance. Future work will be centred on determining the significance of these mutations to better understand these data in clinical context.
Quantification and molecular characterization of intact rotavirus species A (RVA) in municipal solid waste leachate
Authors: Lanzarini Natália Maria , Mannarino Camille Ferreira , Mata Rafaela Marinho , Saggioro Enrico Mendes , Moreira Josino Costa , Miagostovich Marize Pereira
Published: July 2023

Aims

Leachate comprises a solid waste decomposition product found fresh in collection trucks or as an effluent in landfills. This study aimed to assess the occurrence, concentrations, and genetic diversity of intact rotavirus species A (RVA) in solid waste leachate.

Methods and Results

Leachate samples were concentrated by ultracentrifugation, treated with propidium monoazide (PMA), and exposed to LED photolysis. Treated and untread samples were extracted using the QIAamp Fast DNA Stool mini kit, and nucleic acids were screened for RVA employing a Taqman® Real-time PCR. The PMA RT-qPCR method detected RVA in eight out of nine truck samples and in 15.40% (2/13) of the landfill leachate samples. The RVA concentrations in the PMA-treated samples ranged from 4.57 × 103 to 2.15 × 107 genomic copies (GC) 100 mL–1 in truck leachate and from 7.83 × 103 to 1.42 × 104 GC 100 mL–1 in landfill samples. Six truck leachate samples were characterized as RVA VP6 genogroup I2 by partial nucleotide sequencing.

Conclusions

The high intact RVA detection rates and concentrations in truck leachate samples indicate potential infectivity and comprise a warning for solid waste collectors concerning hand-to-mouth contact and the splash route.
Efficient establishment of an optimized culture condition for cashmere goat primary hair follicle stem cells
Authors: Li Yan , Jin Miaohan , Gao Yawei , Lu Lijin , Cao Jing , Liu Yao , Chen Yulin , Wang Xiaolong
Published: July 2023

Hair follicle stem cells (HFSCs) are an important basis for hair follicle morphogenesis and hair cycle growth. This cell type also represents an excellent model for studying the gene function and molecular regulation of the hair growth cycle, including proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Basically, the functional investigation of hair growth-regulating genes demands a sufficient amount of HFSCs. However, efficient propagation of HFSCs in goats is a challenging process under the current culture conditions. Here, we investigated the effect of four components, including the Rho-associated protein kinase (ROCK) inhibitor Y-27632, leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), and vitamin C, on cell growth and pluripotency in the basal culture medium (DMEM/F12 supplemented with 2% fetal bovine serum). We found that adding Y-27632, LIF, and bFGF independently increased the proliferation and pluripotency of goat HFSCs (gHFSCs), with Y-27632 having the most significant effect (P < 0.001). Fluorescence-activated cell sorting of the cell cycle revealed that Y-27632 promoted gHFSC proliferation by inducing the cell cycle from S to G2/M phase (P < 0.05). We further demonstrated that gHFSCs displayed superior proliferative capacity, clone-forming ability, and differentiation potential in the combined presence of Y-27632 (10 μM) and bFGF (10 ng/mL). We termed this novel culture condition as gHFEM, which stands for goat Hair Follicle Enhanced Medium. Taken together, these results indicate that gHFEM is an optimal condition for in vitro culture of gHFSCs, which will subsequently facilitate the study of HF growth and biology.
The Future Sign Language: A Critical History of Aicher’s Ideas About Signs and Pictograms for the 1972 Munich Olympics
Authors: Bakker Wibo
Published: July 2023

The signs and pictograms designed by Otl Aicher and his team for the Munich Olympics in 1972 are regarded as a milestone in design history. With this work, Aicher responded to what he thought were the most important challenges for signs and pictograms during the 1960s: the lack of grammar and visual clarity. He had specific ideas about this which he expressed in his designs as well as in his writings. So far, these ideas have hardly been explored. This study critically reconstructs the origins, development, and presentation of Aicher’s ideas about signs and pictograms for the Munich Olympics. In these designs, he tried to resolve his love for geometry with his desire to develop a functional sign language. His work in this area represents a pivotal moment in modern design during the 1960s, in which modernist designers switched their preference from abstract sign systems to pictogram systems.
Competition policy and the labor share
Authors: Zac Amit , Casti Carola , Decker Christopher , Ezrachi Ariel
Published: July 2023

Recent years have seen intense debate about the causes of the observed decline in the labor share. We extend this inquiry by investigating whether the design and enforcement of competition law and policy are associated with changes in the labor share. Using a panel of 22 industries in 12 OECD economies, we find a positive statistical association between the effectiveness of competition policy and changes in the labor share over the period 1995–2005. This suggests a potential link between the design and effectiveness of competition policy and the labor share, and more broadly to distributional outcomes. Our results reinforce the importance of accounting for country-specific factors, including the design and enforcement of local laws, when examining dynamics in the labor share. The analysis implies that effective competition law and policy could mitigate the decline of the labor share, particularly in settings characterized by low levels of labor protection and limited labor bargaining power. (JEL: E21, E24, E64, J01, J21, K21, L40).
Relationship between pelvic sensations and lifetime exposure to receptive anal intercourse among people with prostates
Authors: Gaither Thomas W , Siapno Allen E D , Kianian Reza , Vincent Nathan , Williams Kristen C , Piquerias Eduardo , Russell Marcia M , Litwin Mark S
Published: July 2023

Background

Despite the negative stigma on receptive anal intercourse (RAI), this behavior has a positive influence on individuals’ sexual and relationship health. No large studies have previously looked at specific sensations experienced during RAI and how these sensations may change with experience.

Aim

In this study we aimed to quantify commonly reported pelvic sensations during RAI and determine whether their presentation changes with increasing experience of RAI.

Methods

An internet survey was conducted on sensations felt during RAI among people with prostates from July 2022–January 2023. The survey content was developed based on a mixed-methods qualitative study and inquired about demographic and sexual histories as well as sensations (pleasure, pain, urinary, and bowel) experienced during RAI. We used descriptive statistics to describe demographic and sexual histories. All data were stratified by lifetime exposure to RAI.

Outcomes

The primary outcomes assessed included the quantification of both the primary sensations experienced during RAI and the associated bother.

Results

In total, 975 participants completed the survey. The median age was 32 (range 18–78) years. The average age of first participation in RAI was 21 ± 6.6 years. Most respondents were having sex at least once a week (65%). Nine percent of respondents reported fewer than 10 experiences with RAI, 26% reported 11-50 RAI experiences, 32% reported 51-200 experiences, 16% reported 201-500 experiences, and 18% reported >500 experiences. As the number of experiences with RAI increased (from <10 to >500 exposures), the reported frequency of pleasurable sensation increased from 41% to 92% (P < .0001), whereas severe insertional pain and symptoms of bowel urgency decreased from 39% to 13% and from 21% to 6%, respectively (P < .0001). Urinary urgency sensation did not differ by lifetime RAI experience.

Clinical Implications

Lifetime RAI exposure can be readily assessed and correlates not only with pelvic sensation but also many other aspects of sexual health. These results imply that the etiology of dissatisfaction with pleasure or anodyspareunia during RAI may differ by lifetime RAI exposure.

Strengths and Limitations

This is the first study to our knowledge to assess pelvic sensations experienced during RAI among a large sample of individuals. This is a cross-sectional study, and we cannot conclude how pelvic sensations change over time among individuals. Internet-based participants may not be representative of clinical populations.

Conclusion

Lifetime exposure to RAI is positively associated with pleasure and is negatively associated with pain and bowel urgency. Pelvic sensations experienced during RAI appear to be dependent on lifetime RAI exposure history regardless of age.
In vitro combination of antifungal drugs with tacrolimus (FK506) holds promise against clinical Candida species, including Candida auris
Authors: Khodavaisy Sadegh , Gharehbolagh Sanaz Aghaei , Abdorahimi Mahsa , Rezaie Sara , Ahmadikia Kazem , Badali Hamid , Meis Jacques F , Mahmoudi Shahram
Published: July 2023

In vitro interactions between tacrolimus, a calcineurin inhibitor, and fluconazole, itraconazole, caspofungin, or anidulafungin were evaluated against Candida auris, C. albicans, C. parapsilosis, and C. glabrata (each five strains). Tacrolimus–itraconazole, tacrolimus–caspofungin, and tacrolimus–fluconazole combinations resulted in synergistic interactions against 95%, 90%, and 60% of Candida isolates, respectively. However, tacrolimus–anidulafungin resulted in only a 35% synergistic effect. A combination of tacrolimus and itraconazole was most potent with synergy against 100% of C. auris, C. parapsilosis, and C. glabrata isolates. Of note, no antagonistic interaction was found.
The magnetic fields around the cometary globules L328, L323, and L331
Authors: Kumar Siddharth , Soam Archana , Roy Nirupam
Published: July 2023

This work presents the magnetic field geometry in a complex of three cometary (with head–tail morphology) globules, namely LDN 323, LDN 328, and LDN 331, using R-band polarization measurements of background stars. These observations were combined with a Planck sky survey to study the large-scale morphology of the magnetic fields in the region. The distances of the target stars were adopted from the Gaia catalogue. The variation of the degree of polarization and polarization position angle with distances of stars is analysed. The field geometry is mostly found to follow the cometary shape of the cloud, with some randomness at certain locations. For studying the correlation between cloud morphology and magnetic field orientations, a modified version of the histogram of relative orientation (HRO) analysis was employed.
Weak lensing tomographic redshift distribution inference for the Hyper Suprime-Cam Subaru Strategic Program three-year shape catalogue
Authors: Rau Markus Michael , Dalal Roohi , Zhang Tianqing , Li Xiangchong , Nishizawa Atsushi J , More Surhud , Mandelbaum Rachel , Miyatake Hironao , Strauss Michael A , Takada Masahiro
Published: July 2023

We present posterior sample redshift distributions for the Hyper Suprime-Cam Subaru Strategic Program Weak Lensing three-year (HSC Y3) analysis. Using the galaxies’ photometry and spatial cross-correlations, we conduct a combined Bayesian Hierarchical Inference of the sample redshift distributions. The spatial cross-correlations are derived using a subsample of Luminous Red Galaxies (LRGs) with accurate redshift information available up to a photometric redshift of z < 1.2. We derive the photometry-based constraints using a combination of two empirical techniques calibrated on spectroscopic and multiband photometric data that cover a spatial subset of the shear catalogue. The limited spatial coverage induces a cosmic variance error budget that we include in the inference. Our cross-correlation analysis models the photometric redshift error of the LRGs to correct for systematic biases and statistical uncertainties. We demonstrate consistency between the sample redshift distributions derived using the spatial cross-correlations, the photometry, and the posterior of the combined analysis. Based on this assessment, we recommend conservative priors for sample redshift distributions of tomographic bins used in the three-year cosmological Weak Lensing analyses.
Can the orbital distribution of Neptune’s 3:2 mean-motion resonance result from stability sculpting?
Authors: Balaji S , Zaveri N , Hayashi N , Hermosillo Ruiz A , Barnes J , Murray-Clay R , Volk K , Gerhardt J , Syed Z
Published: July 2023

We explore a simplified model of the outcome of an early outer Solar System gravitational upheaval during which objects were captured into Neptune’s 3:2 mean-motion resonance via scattering rather than smooth planetary migration. We use N-body simulations containing the sun, the four giant planets, and test particles in the 3:2 resonance to determine whether long-term stability sculpting over 4.5 Gyr can reproduce the observed 3:2 resonant population from an initially randomly scattered 3:2 population. After passing our simulated 3:2 resonant objects through a survey simulator, we find that the semimajor axis (a) and eccentricity (e) distributions are consistent with the observational data (assuming an absolute magnitude distribution constrained by prior studies), suggesting that these could be a result of stability sculpting. However, the inclination (i) distribution cannot be produced by stability sculpting and thus must result from a distinct process that excited the inclinations. Our simulations modestly under-predict the number of objects with high-libration amplitudes (Aϕ), possibly because we do not model transient sticking. Finally, our model under-populates the Kozai subresonance compared to both observations and to smooth migration models. Future work is needed to determine whether smooth migration occurring as Neptune’s eccentricity damped to its current value can resolve this discrepancy.
Modelling uncertainties in wide binary constraints on primordial black holes
Authors: Tyler Emily , Green Anne M , Goodwin Simon P
Published: July 2023

Dark matter in the form of compact objects with mass Mco ≳ 10 M⊙ can be constrained by its dynamical effects on wide binary stars. Motivated by the recent interest in primordial black hole dark matter, we revisit the theoretical modelling involved in these constraints. We improve on previous studies in several ways. Specifically, we (i) implement a physically motivated model for the initial wide-binary semimajor axis distribution, (ii) include unbound binaries, and (iii) take into account the uncertainty in the relationship between semimajor axis and observed angular separation. These effects all tend to increase the predicted number of wide binaries (for a given compact object population). Therefore, the constraints on the halo fraction in compact objects, fco, are significantly weakened. For the wide binary sample used in the most recent calculation of the constraints, we find the fraction of halo dark matter in compact objects is fco < 1 for $M_{\rm co} \approx 300 \, \mathrm{ M}_{\odot }$, tightening with increasing Mco to fco < 0.26 for $M_{\rm co} \gtrsim 1000 \, \mathrm{ M}_{\odot }$.
PSR J0026−1955: A curious case of evolutionary subpulse drifting and nulling
Authors: Janagal Parul , McSweeney Samuel J , Chakraborty Manoneeta , Bhat N D Ramesh
Published: July 2023

PSR J0026−1955 was independently discovered by the Murchison Widefield Array recently. The pulsar exhibits subpulse drifting, where the radio emission from a pulsar appears to drift in spin phase within the main pulse profile, and nulling, where the emission ceases briefly. The pulsar showcases a curious case of drift rate evolution as it exhibits rapid changes between the drift modes and a gradual evolution in the drift rate within a mode. Here, we report new analysis and results from observations of J0026−1955 made with the upgraded Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope at 300–500 MHz. We identify two distinct subpulse drifting modes: A and B, with mode A subcategorized into A0, A1, and A2, depending upon the drift rate evolutionary behaviour. Additionally, the pulsar exhibits short and long nulls, with an estimated overall nulling fraction of ∼58 per cent, which is lower than the previously reported value. Our results also provide evidence of subpulse memory across nulls and a consistent behaviour where mode A2 is often followed by a null. We investigate the drift rate modulations of J0026−1955 and put forward two different models to explain the observed drifting behaviour. We suggest that either a change in polar gap screening or a slow relaxation in the spark configuration could possibly drive the evolution in drift rates. J0026−1955 belongs to a rare subset of pulsars which exhibit subpulse drifting, nulling, mode changing, and drift rate evolution. It is therefore an ideal test bed for carousel models and to uncover the intricacies of pulsar emission physics.
No redshift evolution in the rest-frame ultraviolet emission line properties of quasars from z = 1.5 to z = 4.0
Authors: Stepney Matthew , Banerji Manda , Hewett Paul C , Temple Matthew J , Rankine Amy L , Matthews James H , Richards Gordon T
Published: July 2023

We analyse the rest-frame ultraviolet (UV) spectra of 2531 high-redshift (3.5 < z < 4.0) quasars from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey DR16Q catalogue. In combination with previous work, we study the redshift evolution of the rest-frame UV line properties across the entire redshift range, 1.5 < z < 4.0. We improve the systemic redshift estimates at z > 3.5 using a cross-correlation algorithm that employs high signal-to-noise template spectra spanning the full range in UV emission line properties. We then quantify the evolution of C iv and He ii emission line properties with redshift. The increase in C iv blueshifts with cosmological redshift can be fully explained by the higher luminosities of quasars observed at high redshifts. We recover broadly similar trends between the He ii equivalent width and C iv blueshift at both 1.5 < z < 2.65 and 3.5 < z < 4.0 suggesting that the blueshift depends systematically on the spectral energy density (SED) of the quasar and there is no evolution in the SED over the redshift range 1.5 < z < 4.0. C iv blueshifts are highest when L/L$_\text {Edd} \ge$ 0.2 and Mbh ≥ 109 M⊙ for the entire 1.5 < z < 4.0 sample. We find that luminosity matching samples as a means to explore the evolution of their rest-frame UV emission line properties is only viable if the samples are also matched in the Mbh–L/L$_\text {Edd}$ plane. Quasars at z ≥ 6 are on average less massive and have higher Eddington-scaled accretion rates than their luminosity-matched counterparts at 1.5 < z < 4.0, which could explain the observed evolution in their UV line properties.
MUSE Analysis of Gas around Galaxies (MAGG) – V. Linking ionized gas traced by C iv and Si iv absorbers to Ly α emitting galaxies at z ≈ 3.0–4.5
Authors: Galbiati Marta , Fumagalli Michele , Fossati Matteo , Lofthouse Emma K , Dutta Rajeshwari , Prochaska J Xavier , Murphy Michael T , Cantalupo Sebastiano
Published: July 2023

We study the connection between Ly α emitters (LAEs) and metal-enriched ionized gas traced by C iv absorption at redshift z ≈ 3–4 in 28 quasar fields with high-resolution spectroscopy from the MUSE Analysis of Gas Around Galaxies survey. In a sample of 220 C iv absorbers, we identify 143 LAEs connected to C iv gas within a line-of-sight separation $\pm 500\rm \, km\, s^{-1}$, equal to a detection rate of 36 ± 5 per cent once we account for multiple LAEs connected to the same absorber. The luminosity function of LAEs associated with absorbers has an ≈2.4 higher normalization than the field. The analysis of the LAE–C iv correlation function suggests that metal-enriched gas arises both in the haloes of the LAEs and from locations not connected to galaxies. C iv absorbers with higher equivalent width are more often associated with LAEs and C iv systems are twice less likely, especially at low equivalent width, to be found near LAEs than strong H i absorbers. The covering fraction in groups is up to ≈3 times larger than for isolated galaxies. Similar results are found using Si iv as tracer of ionized gas. We propose three components to model the gas environment of LAEs: (i) the circumgalactic medium of galaxies, accounting for the strongest correlations between absorption and emission; (ii) overdense gas filaments connecting galaxies, driving the excess of LAEs at a few times the virial radius and the modulation of the luminosity and cross-correlation functions for strong absorbers; (iii) an enriched and more diffuse medium, accounting for weaker C iv absorbers farther from galaxies.
An alternative formation scenario for uranium-rich giants: engulfing an Earth-like planet
Authors: Xie Dian , Zhu Chunhua , Guo Sufen , Liu Helei , Lü Guoliang
Published: July 2023

The actinides, such as the uranium (U) element, are typically synthesized through the rapid neutron-capture process (r-process), which can occur in core-collapse supernovae or double neutron star mergers. There exist nine r-process giant stars exhibiting conspicuous U abundances, commonly referred to as U-rich giants. However, the origins of these U-rich giants remain ambiguous. We propose an alternative formation scenario for these U-rich giants whereby a red giant (RG) engulfs an Earth-like planet. To approximate the process of an RG engulfing an Earth-like planet, we employ an accretion model wherein the RG assimilates materials from said planet. Our findings demonstrate that this engulfment event can considerably enhance the presence of heavy elements originating from Earth-like planets on the surfaces of very metal-poor stars (Z = 0.00001), while its impact on solar-metallicity stars is comparatively modest. Importantly, the structural and evolutionary properties of both very metal-poor and solar-metallicity stars remain largely unaffected. Notably, our engulfment model effectively accounts for the observed U abundances in known U-rich giants. Furthermore, the evolutionary trajectories of U abundances on the surfaces of RGs subsequent to the engulfment of Earth-like planets encompass all known U-rich giants. Therefore, it is plausible that U-rich giants are formed when an RG engulfs an Earth-like planet.
Transition to Self-compatibility Associated With Dominant S-allele in a Diploid Siberian Progenitor of Allotetraploid Arabidopsis kamchatica Revealed by Arabidopsis lyrata Genomes
Authors: Kolesnikova Uliana K , Scott Alison Dawn , Van de Velde Jozefien D , Burns Robin , Tikhomirov Nikita P , Pfordt Ursula , Clarke Andrew C , Yant Levi , Seregin Alexey P , Vekemans Xavier , Laurent Stefan , Novikova Polina Yu
Published: July 2023

A transition to selfing can be beneficial when mating partners are scarce, for example, due to ploidy changes or at species range edges. Here, we explain how self-compatibility evolved in diploid Siberian Arabidopsis lyrata, and how it contributed to the establishment of allotetraploid Arabidopsis kamchatica. First, we provide chromosome-level genome assemblies for two self-fertilizing diploid A. lyrata accessions, one from North America and one from Siberia, including a fully assembled S-locus for the latter. We then propose a sequence of events leading to the loss of self-incompatibility in Siberian A. lyrata, date this independent transition to ∼90 Kya, and infer evolutionary relationships between Siberian and North American A. lyrata, showing an independent transition to selfing in Siberia. Finally, we provide evidence that this selfing Siberian A. lyrata lineage contributed to the formation of the allotetraploid A. kamchatica and propose that the selfing of the latter is mediated by the loss-of-function mutation in a dominant S-allele inherited from A. lyrata.
Intravenous Liposomal Amphotericin B Efficacy and Safety for Cutaneous and Mucosal Leishmaniasis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Chivinski Jeffrey , Nathan Keren , Naeem Faheel , Ekmekjian Taline , Libman Michael D , Barkati Sapha
Published: July 2023

Background

Tegumentary leishmaniasis is often subject to limited funding, underpowered studies, and a paucity of high-quality interventional studies. Intravenous liposomal amphotericin B (L-AmB) has been increasingly used to treat cutaneous and mucosal leishmaniasis (CL and ML, respectively) despite the lack of well-conducted interventional studies. We conducted a systematic review to consolidate the descriptive evidence on the efficacy and safety of L-AmB in treating CL and ML.

Methods

Several online databases and the reference lists of included studies were searched to extract data from 132 studies comprising both case reports and case series. The population, intervention, comparison, outcome, and study design strategy and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines were used.

Results

Of 132 studies included, 92 were case reports and 40 were case series. Of the 92 cases, 65 (82.3%) were considered cured after receiving L-AmB as part of their treatment regimen. Twenty-one of the 92 (22.8%) cases reported adverse reactions to L-AmB. A pooled cure rate of 87.0% (95% CI, 79.0%–92.0%) was reported for the 38 case series that reported on treatment efficacy; 40.7% of the cases were associated with an adverse reaction.

Conclusions

Observational data on cure rates using L-AmB suggest efficacy between 80% and 90%, similar to rates reported for other antileishmanial drugs. The highest efficacy rates were observed when a single cycle of L-AmB was administered to patients with mild–moderate CL and ML. The limitations of this study include the heterogeneity observed among the included studies and the increased likelihood of publication bias associated with the inclusion of case reports and case series. This systematic review further illustrates the need for high-quality comparative trials of intravenous L-AmB for the treatment of tegumentary leishmaniasis.
A Population-Based Study of Unfavorable Prognostic Factors Associated With Pyogenic Liver Abscess
Authors: Bläckberg Anna , Jönsson Astrid , Svensson Emma , Sunnerhagen Torgny , Kiasat Ali , Ljungquist Oskar
Published: July 2023

Background

Pyogenic liver abscess (PLA) is a rare entity that is associated with substantial mortality and morbidity. Our objective was to investigate variables associated with mortality and subsequent PLA in patients diagnosed with PLA in southern Sweden.

Methods

We conducted a population-based observational study comprising all episodes of PLA that occurred between 2011 and 2020 in the county of Skåne, southern Sweden. The primary outcome was defined as all-cause 90-day mortality and the secondary outcome was defined as the occurrence of a subsequent PLA.

Results

A total of 452 episodes of PLA occurred in 360 patients during the study period. The 90-day mortality rate was 16% (n = 58) and the subsequent PLA rate was 20% (n = 92). In a multivariable logistic regression model, female sex (odds ratio [OR], 2.0 [95% confidence interval {CI}, 1.1–3.9]), malignancy (OR, 3.7 [95% CI, 1.9–7.1]), liver failure (OR, 6.3 [95% CI, 2.7–14.5]), and polymicrobial findings (OR, 3.8 [95% CI, 2.2–6.9]) were associated with death within 90 days (P < .05). Male sex (OR, 2.1 [95% CI, 1.2–3.6]), malignancy (OR, 2.1 [95% CI, 1.3–3.6]), age (64–74 years: OR, 2.5 [95% CI, 1.3–4.8]), and chronic liver disease (OR, 3.0 [95% CI, 1.4–6.5]) were associated with the risk of subsequent PLA (P ≤ .01).

Conclusions

Identifying different clinical variables associated with an unfavorable outcome may improve the management and treatment of patients with PLA and thus prevent the risk of death and subsequent PLA.
Tuberculosis Infection and Disease Among Pregnant People Living in Sweden With Origin in Tuberculosis-Endemic Countries
Authors: Båtshake Ylva , Walles John , Winqvist Niclas , Björkman Per
Published: July 2023

Background

Pregnancy has been associated with elevated incidence of tuberculosis (TB) disease. Since 2014, people living in Sweden with origin in TB-endemic countries have been offered screening for TB infection in antenatal care (ANC) using Quantiferon-TB assays. We assessed factors associated with TB infection in this population and determined the incidence of TB disease during pregnancy and postpartum periods with regard to ANC Quantiferon-TB results.

Methods

Quantiferon-TB results obtained during ANC in Sweden, 2014–2018, were linked to data from national registers (Pregnancy Register, Patient Register and Tuberculosis Register). Factors associated with TB infection (defined as Quantiferon-TB ≥0.35 IU/mL) were identified using logistic regression analysis. Incidence of TB disease was determined with regard to pregnancy, postpartum and subsequent periods, and ANC Quantiferon-TB results.

Results

Among 7638 screened individuals, 1424 (18.6%) had TB infection. Tuberculosis infection was independently associated with higher age at immigration (adjusted odds ratio, 1.04 [95% confidence interval, 1.03–1.05]; P < .001), and was more common among people originating from Africa compared to other world regions (845/3088 [27.4%] vs 579/4550 [12.7%]; P < .001). In total, 16 participants were diagnosed with TB disease (10 during pregnancy, 4 at <6 months after delivery, 2 at >6 months after delivery); among these, all diagnosed during pregnancy/postpartum had positive ANC Quantiferon-TB results (constituting 14/1424 [1%] of people with TB infection).

Conclusions

Among pregnant people screened in Swedish ANC, TB infection was associated with higher age and African origin. All cases of TB disease reported in persons with TB infection at ANC screening occurred during pregnancy or postpartum.