bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dust–dust collisions in cometary comas: applications to comet 67P/Churyumov–Gerasimenko
Authors: Planes María Belén , Parisi M Gabriela , Millán Emmanuel N , Bringa Eduardo M , Cañada-Assandri Marcela
Published: April 2024

Silica has emerged as a crucial component within inner comet comas. This work investigates silica dust aggregates and their interactions within cometary comas. We study the probability that aggregates in the size range 1–100 µm collide with each other in the coma and analyse the outcomes of such collisions by using the ‘Collision of Porous Aggregates’ (cpa) Software, which incorporates mass, size, and porosity evolution of the dust population. Beginning with assumed initial distributions and physical properties for silica aggregates at the comet nucleus, we compute their collisional evolution from when they depart the nucleus until they traverse the coma. Using data of dust particles observed in the coma of comet 67P/Churyumov–Gerasimenko, we demonstrate that dust–dust collisions in cometary comas cannot be neglected. Our analysis yields final distributions in terms of mass, size, and porosity. To validate our findings, we compare them with in situ measurements of 67P/Churyumov–Gerasimenko collected by the COSIMA (COmetary Secondary Ion Mass Analyser) instrument of the Rosetta mission. Our investigation reveals a notable agreement between our derived size distributions and the data acquired by COSIMA within the same size range. This study may be applied to any comet that presents a similar dust production as it approaches the Sun. The insights of this work may contribute to estimating other dust properties such as strength, absorption, reflectivity, and thermal conductivity and highlight the importance of considering dust–dust collisions when studying cometary comas and their evolution.
On the properties and implications of collapse-driven MHD turbulence
Authors: Vázquez-Semadeni Enrique , Hu Yue , Xu Siyao , Guerrero-Gamboa Rubén , Lazarian Alex
Published: April 2024

We investigate the driving of MHD turbulence by gravitational contraction using simulations of an initially spherical, isothermal, magnetically supercritical molecular cloud core with transonic and trans-Alfvénic turbulence. We perform a Helmholtz decomposition of the velocity field, and investigate the evolution of its solenoidal and compressible parts, as well as of the velocity component along the gravitational acceleration vector, a proxy for the infall component of the velocity field. We find that (1) In spite of being supercritical, the core first contracts to a sheet perpendicular to the mean magnetic field, and the sheet itself collapses. (2) The solenoidal component of the turbulence remains at roughly its initial level throughout the simulation, while the compressible component increases continuously, implying that turbulence does not dissipate towards the centre of the core. (3) The distribution of simulation cells in the B–ρ plane occupies a wide triangular region at low densities, bounded below by the expected trend for fast MHD waves (B ∝ ρ, applicable for high-local Alfvénic Mach number MA) and above by the trend expected for slow waves (B ∼ constant, applicable for low local MA). At high densities, the distribution follows a single trend $B \propto \rho ^{\gamma _{\rm eff}}$, with 1/2 < γeff < 2/3, as expected for gravitational compression. (4) The mass-to-magnetic flux ratio λ increases with radius r due to the different scalings of the mass and magnetic flux with r. At a fixed radius, λ increases with time due to the accretion of material along field lines. (5) The solenoidal energy fraction is much smaller than the total turbulent component, indicating that the collapse drives the turbulence mainly compressibly, even in directions orthogonal to that of the collapse.
Periodic activities of fast radio burst repeaters from precessing magnetars with evolving obliquity
Authors: Feng Xin-Ming , Yang Yuan-Pei , Li Qiao-Chu
Published: April 2024

Fast radio bursts (FRBs) are cosmological radio transients with millisecond durations and extremely high brightness temperatures. One FRB repeater, FRB 180916.J0158+65 (FRB 180916B), was confirmed to appear 16.35-day periodic activities with 5-day activity window. Another FRB repeater, FRB 121102, and two soft gamma-ray repeaters (SGRs), SGR 1935+2154 and SGR 1806−20, also show possible periodic activities. These periodicities might originate from the precession process of young magnetars due to the anisotropic pressure from the inner magnetic fields as proposed in the literature. In this work, we analyse a self-consistent model for the rotation evolution of magnetars and obtain the evolutions of magnetar precession and obliquity. We find that if the FRB repeaters and the SGRs with (possible) periodic activities originate from the magnetar precession, their ages would be constrained to be hundreds to tens of thousands of years, which is consistent with the typical ages of magnetars. Assuming that the FRB emission is beaming in the magnetosphere as proposed in the literature, we calculate the evolution of the observable probability and the duty cycle of the active window period. We find that for a given magnetar the observable probability increases with the magnetar age in the early stage and decreases with the magnetar age in the later stage; meanwhile, there are one or two active windows in one precession period if the emission is not perfectly axisymmetric with respect to the deformation axis of a magnetar, which could be tested by the future observation for repeating FRB sources.
Photometric recalibration of VPHAS+ u-band photometry with the stellar colour regression method and Gaia DR3
Authors: Chen Bing-Qiu , Yuan Hai-Bo , Huang Bo-Wen
Published: April 2024

The u-band magnitude is vital for determining stellar parameters and investigating specific astronomical objects. However, flux calibration in the u band for stars in the Galactic disc presents significant challenges. In this study, we introduce a comprehensive recalibration of u-band photometric magnitudes of the VPHAS+ Data Release 4, employing the stellar colour regression technique. By leveraging the expansive set of XP spectra and GBP photometry from Gaia Data Release 3, as well as the individual stellar extinction values provided by the literature, we have obtained precise model magnitudes of nearly 3 million stars. Our analysis identifies systematic magnitude offsets that exhibit a standard deviation of 0.063 mag across different observational visits, 0.022 mag between various CCDs, and 0.009 mag within pixel bins. We have implemented precise corrections for these observational visits, CCD chips, and pixel bins-dependent magnitude offsets. These corrections have led to a reduction in the standard deviation between the observed magnitudes and the model magnitudes from 0.088 to 0.065 mag, ensuring that the calibrated magnitudes are independent of stellar magnitude, colour, and extinction. The enhanced precision of these magnitudes substantially improves the quality of astrophysical research and offers substantial potential for furthering our understanding of stellar astrophysics.
Impacts of energetic particles from T Tauri flares on inner protoplanetary discs
Authors: Brunn V , Rab Ch , Marcowith A , Sauty C , Padovani M , Meskini C
Published: April 2024

T Tauri stars are known to be magnetically active stars subject to strong flares observed in X-rays. These flares are likely due to intense magnetic reconnection events during which a part of the stored magnetic energy is converted into kinetic energy of supra-thermal particles. Since T Tauri stars are surrounded by an accretion disc, these particles may influence the disc dynamics and chemistry. This work continues on a previous stationary model, which showed that energetic particles accelerated during flares can produce a strong ionization rate at high column densities in the inner accretion disc. The present model includes non-stationary sequences of flaring events sampled by a Chandra X-ray survey of nearby young stellar objects. We calculate the averaged ionization rate expected in a radius range 0.08–0.6 au from the central star. We confirm that energetic particles produced by the flares dominate the ionization of the disc up to column densities of $10^{25}~\rm {cm^{-2}}$. We further study the main consequences of this additional source of ionization on the viscosity, the accretion rate, the volumetric heating rate, and the chemical complexity of inner protoplanetary discs.
Using rest-frame optical and NIR data from the RAISIN survey to explore the redshift evolution of dust laws in SN Ia host galaxies
Authors: Thorp Stephen , Mandel Kaisey S , Jones David O , Kirshner Robert P , Challis Peter M
Published: April 2024

We use rest-frame optical and near-infrared (NIR) observations of 42 Type Ia supernovae (SNe Ia) from the Carnegie Supernova Project at low-z and 37 from the RAISIN (SNIA in the IR) Survey at high-z to investigate correlations between SN Ia host galaxy dust, host mass, and redshift. This is the first time the SN Ia host galaxy dust extinction law at high-z has been estimated using combined optical and rest-frame NIR data (YJ band). We use the BayeSN hierarchical model to leverage the data’s wide rest-frame wavelength range (extending to ∼1.0–1.2 μm for the RAISIN sample at 0.2 ≲ z ≲ 0.6). By contrasting the RAISIN and Carnegie Supernova Project (CSP) data, we constrain the population distributions of the host dust RV parameter for both redshift ranges. We place a limit on the difference in population mean RV between RAISIN and CSP of −1.16 < Δμ(RV) < 1.38 with 95 per cent posterior probability. For RAISIN we estimate μ(RV) = 2.58 ± 0.57, and constrain the population standard deviation to σ(RV) < 0.90 [2.42] at the 68 [95] per cent level. Given that we are only able to constrain the size of the low- to high-z shift in μ(RV) to ≲1.4 – which could still propagate to a substantial bias in the equation-of-state parameter w – these and other recent results motivate continued effort to obtain rest-frame NIR data at low- and high-redshifts (e.g. using the Roman Space Telescope).
Co-exposure to lead and high-fat diet aggravates systemic inflammation in mice by altering gut microbiota and the LPS/TLR4 pathway
Authors: Wang Nana , Li Changhao , Gao Xue , Huo Yuan , Li Yuting , Cheng Fangru , Jiang Fei , Zhang Zengli
Published: April 2024

This study reports the toxicity of Pb exposure on systemic inflammation in high-fat-diet (HFD) mice and the potential mechanisms. Results indicated that Pb exacerbated intestinal barrier damage and increased serum levels of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and diamine oxidase in HFD mice. Elevated LPS activates the colonic and ileal LPS–TLR4 inflammatory signaling pathway and further induces hepatic and adipose inflammatory expression. The 16S rRNA gene sequencing results showed that Pb promoted the abundance of potentially harmful and LPS-producing bacteria such as Coriobacteriaceae_UCG-002, Alloprevotella, and Oscillibacter in the intestines of HFD mice, and their abundance was positively correlated with LPS levels. Additionally, Pb inhibited the abundance of the beneficial bacteria Akkermansia, resulting in lower levels of the metabolite short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). Meanwhile, Pb inhibited adenosine 5′-monophosphate-activated protein kinase signaling-mediated lipid metabolism pathways, promoting hepatic lipid accumulation. The above results suggest that Pb exacerbates systemic inflammation and lipid disorders in HFD mice by altering the gut microbiota, intestinal barrier, and the mediation of metabolites LPS and SCFAs. Our study provides potential novel mechanisms of human health related to Pb-induced metabolic damage and offers new evidence for a comprehensive assessment of Pb risk.
Antimicrobial Resistance, One Health Interventions and the Least Restrictive Alternative Principle
Authors: Fumagalli Davide
Published: April 2024

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is increasingly recognised as a threat to human, animal and environmental health. In an effort to counter this threat, several intervention plans have been proposed and implemented by states and organisations such as the WHO. A One Health policy approach, which targets multiple domains (healthcare, animal husbandry and the environment), has been identified as useful for curbing AMR. Johnson and Matlock have recently argued that One Health policies in the AMR context require special ethical justification because of the so-called least restrictive alternative principle. This article analyses and rejects two assumptions that this argument relies on. The first assumption is that One Health policies are generally more restrictive than their alternatives because they target more domains and impact more people. The second assumption is that the least restrictive alternative principle has a special normative importance in that it establishes a systematic presumption in favour of the least restrictive policy options. Once these assumptions are rejected, the use of One Health policies on AMR can be justified more easily than Johnson and Matlock argue.
The H3K4 demethylase JMJ1 is required for proper timing of flowering in Brachypodium distachyon
Authors: Liu Bing , Li Chengzhang , Li Xiang , Wang Jiachen , Xie Wenhao , Woods Daniel P , Li Weiya , Zhu Xiaoyu , Yang Shuoming , Dong Aiwu , Amasino Richard M
Published: April 2024

Flowering is a key developmental transition in the plant life cycle. In temperate climates, flowering often occurs in response to the perception of seasonal cues such as changes in day-length and temperature. However, the mechanisms that have evolved to control the timing of flowering in temperate grasses are not fully understood. We identified a Brachypodium distachyon mutant whose flowering is delayed under inductive long-day conditions due to a mutation in the JMJ1 gene, which encodes a Jumonji domain-containing protein. JMJ1 is a histone demethylase that mainly demethylates H3K4me2 and H3K4me3 in vitro and in vivo. Analysis of the genome-wide distribution of H3K4me1, H3K4me2, and H3K4me3 in wild-type plants by chromatin immunoprecipitation and sequencing combined with RNA sequencing revealed that H3K4m1 and H3K4me3 are positively associated with gene transcript levels, whereas H3K4me2 is negatively correlated with transcript levels. Furthermore, JMJ1 directly binds to the chromatin of the flowering regulator genes VRN1 and ID1 and affects their transcription by modifying their H3K4me2 and H3K4me3 levels. Genetic analyses indicated that JMJ1 promotes flowering by activating VRN1 expression. Our study reveals a role for JMJ1-mediated chromatin modification in the proper timing of flowering in B. distachyon.
The structural basis for light harvesting in organisms producing phycobiliproteins
Authors: Bryant Donald A , Gisriel Christopher J
Published: April 2024

Cyanobacteria, red algae, and cryptophytes produce 2 classes of proteins for light harvesting: water-soluble phycobiliproteins (PBP) and membrane-intrinsic proteins that bind chlorophylls (Chls) and carotenoids. In cyanobacteria, red algae, and glaucophytes, phycobilisomes (PBS) are complexes of brightly colored PBP and linker (assembly) proteins. To date, 6 structural classes of PBS have been described: hemiellipsoidal, block-shaped, hemidiscoidal, bundle-shaped, paddle-shaped, and far-red-light bicylindrical. Two additional antenna complexes containing single types of PBP have also been described. Since 2017, structures have been reported for examples of all of these complexes except bundle-shaped PBS by cryogenic electron microscopy. PBS range in size from about 4.6 to 18 mDa and can include ∼900 polypeptides and bind >2000 chromophores. Cyanobacteria additionally produce membrane-associated proteins of the PsbC/CP43 superfamily of Chl a/b/d-binding proteins, including the iron-stress protein IsiA and other paralogous Chl-binding proteins (CBP) that can form antenna complexes with Photosystem I (PSI) and/or Photosystem II (PSII). Red and cryptophyte algae also produce CBP associated with PSI but which belong to the Chl a/b-binding protein superfamily and which are unrelated to the CBP of cyanobacteria. This review describes recent progress in structure determination for PBS and the Chl proteins of cyanobacteria, red algae, and cryptophytan algae.
Mental health conditions in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Liu Xiaotong , Jia Xinlei , Wang Xiao , Wei Ya Bin , Liu Jia Jia
Published: April 2024

Objectives

The reported prevalence of mental health conditions (MHCs) in people with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) ranges widely. Whether MHCs are associated with increased risk of SLE or the outcomes of the disease is unclear. This study aimed to conduct an umbrella and updated meta-analysis of MHCs in people with SLE and to identify whether MHCs are associated with the risk of SLE or patient outcomes.

Methods

We comprehensively searched PubMed, Web of Science and Embase databases to identify relevant studies published before June 2023. Random-effect models were used to calculate the pooled prevalence and risk ratios (RR) for each MHC.

Results

In total, 203 studies with 1 485 094 individuals were included. The most MHCs observed in patients with SLE were sleep disturbance (59.7% [95% CI, 52.4–66.8%]) among adults and cognitive dysfunction (63.4% [95% CI, 46.9–77.9%]) among children. We found that depressive disorders (RR = 2.30, 95% CI = 1.94–2.75) and posttraumatic stress disorder (RR = 1.93, 95% CI = 1.61–2.31) in the general population were significantly associated with an increased likelihood of developing SLE. Furthermore, concurrent MHCs were linked to unfavourable outcomes in patients with SLE, such as decreased quality of life, increased risk of unemployment and other somatic comorbidities.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated a high prevalence of MHCs among patients with SLE. Individuals with pre-existing mental disorders exhibited an elevated susceptibility to developing SLE and patients presenting with MHCs were at increased risk of experiencing suboptimal health and functional outcomes. Therefore, evaluating and preventing MHCs should be considered as an integral component of the comprehensive treatment strategy for SLE.
Efficacy of collagenase Clostridium histolyticum combination therapies for Peyronie’s disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Guo Yicheng , Yang Yingying , Mao Qiancheng , Liu Hongquan , Wang Tianqi , Sun Fengze , Wu Jitao , Cui Yuanshan
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Peyronie’s disease (PD) is a common penile disorder characterized by the formation of fibrous noncompliant hard nodules in the tunica albuginea of the penis. Collagenase Clostridium histolyticum (CCH) is an injectable drug that treats PD by enzymatically degrading plaque interstitial collagen. CCH has been used in patients with varying curvature, as well as in the acute and stable phases of the disease, through a variety of treatment regimens and combinations. We carried out a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the efficacy of CCH combination therapies for PD.

Methods

We selected 4 observational comparative studies and 3 randomized controlled trials including 532 participants from the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases (until December 2023) to evaluate the efficacy of CCH combination therapies for PD. The primary outcome was clinical efficacy as evaluated by improvement in penile curvature and penile length, as well as by scores on the Peyronie’s Disease Questionnaire (PDQ) for symptom bother, penile pain, and psychological symptoms. Continuous data were represented by mean difference (MD) and 95% CI. All data were analyzed by Review Manager version 5.3.

Results

For penile length (MD, 0.81 cm; 95% CI, 0.17-1.45; P = .01), PDQ symptom bother (MD, –1.02; 95% CI, –1.83 to –0.21; P = .01), and PDQ penile pain (MD, –0.93; 95% CI, –1.50 to –0.36; P = .001), CCH combination therapy showed significantly greater improvements vs CCH monotherapy. However, in the other indicators, penile curvature and PDQ psychological symptoms, there was no significant difference between the therapies.

Conclusion

This meta-analysis supports that CCH combination therapies can partially increase penile length and ameliorate symptom bother and penile pain to some extent. However, CCH combination therapies still need to be evaluated through more high-quality research.
Efficacy and Safety of Gabapentinoids for Acute Herpes Zoster Neuralgia
Authors: Li Yinluo , Long Xingzhen , Luo Fengrong , Zhang Jiarui , Sun Shaoqin , Du Pengqiang , Yang Hongtao , Chen Qi , Sheng Changcheng , Bai Xue
Published: April 2024

Objective:

his study aimed to systematically evaluate the clinical efficacy of gabapentin and pregabalin in the treatment of acute herpes zoster neuralgia, including pain control and the occurrence of adverse effects.

Method:

A systematic computerized search was conducted in October 2023 in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, VIP, CNKI, and Wanfang databases. Data from randomized controlled trials comparing gabapentin analogs for the treatment of acute herpes zoster neuralgia were searched. Endpoints were visual analog scores (VAS) and adverse effects at 1, 2, and 4 weeks. Data from studies that met the inclusion criteria were extracted for meta-analysis and sensitivity analysis using Revman 5.4 and Stata16.

Results:

The study included 292 patients from 6 RCTs. Of these, 118 were in the gabapentin-treated group, 37 were in the pregabalin-treated group, and 137 were in the placebo-controlled group. The gabapentin group showed superior pain reduction compared to the placebo group (P<0.05), but adverse events were more frequent.

Conclusion:

Gabapentin can effectively reduce acute herpes zoster neuralgia in patients. Pregabalin requires additional randomized controlled trials to supplement the analysis.

PROSPERO Registration:

CRD42023446643.
Screw Diameter and Use of a Washer Affect Symptomatic Implant Removal Rates in Pediatric Medial Epicondyle Fractures
Authors: Siebert Matthew J. , Zhang Emily , Stephens Senah E. , Wey Aaron J. , Eppich Kaleb , Presson Angela P. , Holmes Stephanie M. , Makarewich Christopher A.
Published: April 2024

Objective:

Medial epicondyle fractures are a common pediatric injury. When operative, cannulated partially threaded screws, with or without a washer, are commonly utilized. These implants may need to be removed after full healing if symptomatic. There is mixed evidence regarding the influence of a washer on rates of implant removal, and the influence of screw size has not been studied. We aim to determine the rate of symptomatic deep implant removal for each fixation type and identify factors associated with the need for removal.

Methods:

This was an IRB-reviewed, retrospective, case-cohort study. Patients treated at our institution between January 1, 2004 and December 31, 2019, age 18 years old or younger, with a medial epicondyle fracture managed operatively with 4.0 or 4.5 mm cannulated screws with or without washers were included. Patients with multiple operative ipsilateral elbow fractures and those who underwent implant removal for reasons other than pain or irritation were excluded. Removal rates were compared between screw sizes (4.0 vs 4.5 mm), as well as with and without a washer using a Cox proportional hazards model.

Results:

In total, 151 patients met the inclusion criteria, 54 with symptomatic hardware removed and 97 without symptomatic hardware removed. A significantly higher number of patients treated with 4.5 mm screws compared with 4.0 mm screws underwent removal of symptomatic deep implants (50% vs 30%, P = 0.033). In a multivariable Cox regression model adjusting for age and ulnar nerve status, when no washer was used, the hazard ratio (HR) for symptomatic hardware removal for 4.5 mm screws was 2.92 times the HR for 4.0 mm screws (95% CI: 1.35-6.29). When a 4.0 mm screw was used, the HR for symptomatic hardware removal for a washer was 3.24 times the HR without a washer (95% CI: 1.53-6.84).

Conclusion:

Implant removal rates are influenced by screw size and the use of a washer. These results may help guide implant choice and counsel families regarding the rate of symptomatic implant removal.

Level of Evidence:

Level III—therapeutic level, case-control study.
Concurrent Validity of PROMIS and LD-SRS Scores in Pediatric Patients With Lower Limb Differences
Authors: Sabharwal Samir , Coufal Sarah , Less Justin , Sabharwal Sanjeev
Published: April 2024

Background:

We sought to assess the concurrent validity of select Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) domains and Limb Deformity-Scoliosis Research Society (LD-SRS) scores.

Methods:

We prospectively administered PROMIS-25 (including anxiety, depression, fatigue, pain interference, peer relationships, and physical function) and LD-SRS questionnaires to 46 consecutive pediatric patients with lower limb differences, presenting to a single surgeon for reconstruction. Concurrent validity between various subdomains of the 2 outcome measures was assessed through Pearson’s correlation, with significance defined as P <0.05. The strength of correlation was interpreted by Evans criteria: absolute r value <0.20 indicating very weak correlation; 0.20 to 0.39, weak; 0.40 to 0.59, moderate; 0.60 to 0.79, strong; and 0.8 or greater indicating very strong correlation.

Results:

The LD-SRS Pain, Function, and Mental Health domains most strongly correlated with the PROMIS pain interference (r=−0.79, P<0.001), physical function (r=0.74, P<0.001), and anxiety (r=-0.68, P <0.001) domains, respectively. In addition, LD-SRS pain strongly correlated with PROMIS physical function (r=0.61, P<0.001) and LD-SRS function with PROMIS pain interference (r=−0.72, P<0.001). All PROMIS domains significantly correlated with total LD-SRS scores. PROMIS pain interference (r=-0.79, P <0.001), physical function (r=0.67, P <0.001), and fatigue (r=-0.60, P <0.001) domains demonstrated the strongest correlations with the total LD-SRS score.

Conclusions:

The significant concurrent validity between LD-SRS and multiple PROMIS domains suggests considerable overlap, and perhaps redundancy, between these 2 outcome measures. Given the high degree of concordance and the advantage of computer adaptive testing (CAT) in mitigating administrative burden and survey fatigue, along with the ability to compare outcomes across a wider group of children with a variety of underlying diagnoses, select PROMIS domains may be a viable alternative to LD-SRS score for assessing patient-reported outcomes when treating pediatric patients with lower limb deformities. A larger, multi-center study including pediatric patients with lower limb differences from a diverse background, including age, etiology, native language, and ethnicity, would be helpful to externally validate our findings.

Level of Evidence:

Level—I
Fulfilling the Role of a Parent While Undergoing Treatment for Cancer
Authors: Kim Kang Woo , Lopresti Mary , Graff Stephanie L. , Witherby Sabrina , Dizon Don S. , Fenton Mary Anne
Published: April 2024

Breast cancer is the most prevalent malignancy among adolescents and young adults (AYAs). Despite the efficacy of chemotherapy, AYA patients contend with psychosocial challenges, including psychological distress and financial toxicity, exacerbated further by those with dependent children. Parenting responsibilities intersect with cancer care, impacting both family dynamics and treatment adherence. Despite recognized needs, however, the impact of parenting concerns or even parenting status and the presence of dependents has not been systematically addressed and there is a paucity of interventional research regarding patients with cancer as concomitant caregivers. A feasibility study conducted by the Brown University Oncology Cooperative Group demonstrated the potential benefits of providing financial assistance for childcare, both improving treatment adherence and reducing distress among participants. Similar interventions have shown promise in addressing financial hardships for AYA patients with cancer who are concomitant caregivers. Ultimately, parenting concerns have a significant impact on medical decision-making, and further interventional research on childcare support is required to examine the ways in which health systems can improve family stability, stress, and quality of life.
NSC689857, an inhibitor of Skp2, produces antidepressant-like effects in mice
Authors: Liu Qingqing , Cheng Li , Li Fu , Zhu Haojie , Lu Xu , Huang Chao , Yuan Xiaomei
Published: April 2024

We have previously reported that two inhibitors of an E3 ligase S-phase kinase-associated protein 2 (Skp2), SMIP004 and C1, have an antidepressant-like effect in non-stressed and chronically stressed mice. This prompted us to ask whether other Skp2 inhibitors could also have an antidepressant effect. Here, we used NSC689857, another Skp2 inhibitor, to investigate this hypothesis. The results showed that administration of NSC689857 (5 mg/kg) produced an antidepressant-like effect in a time-dependent manner in non-stressed male mice, which started 8 days after drug administration. Dose-dependent analysis showed that administration of 5 and 10 mg/kg, but not 1 mg/kg, of NSC689857 produced antidepressant-like effects in both non-stressed male and female mice. Administration of NSC689857 (5 mg/kg) also induced antidepressant-like effects in non-stressed male mice when administered three times within 24 h (24, 5, and 1 h before testing) but not when administered acutely (1 h before testing). In addition, NSC689857 and fluoxetine coadministration produced additive antidepressant-like effects in non-stressed male mice. These effects of NSC689857 were not associated with the changes in locomotor activity. Administration of NSC689857 (5 mg/kg) also attenuated depression-like behaviors in male mice induced by chronic social defeat stress, suggesting therapeutic potential of NSC689857 in depression. Overall, these results suggest that NSC689857 is capable of exerting antidepressant-like effects in both non-stressed and chronically stressed mice.
Recent advances in multimodal imaging in tetralogy of fallot and double outlet right ventricle
Authors: Singh Aakansha Ajay Vir , Yoo Shi-Joon , Seed Mike , Lam Christopher Z. , Valverde Israel
Published: April 2024

Purpose of review

In the ever-evolving field of medical imaging, this review highlights significant advancements in preoperative and postoperative imaging for Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) and double outlet right ventricle (DORV) over the past 18 months.

Recent findings

This review showcases innovations in echocardiography such as 3D speckle tracking echocardiography (3DSTE) for assessing right ventricle-pulmonary artery coupling (RVPAC) and Doppler velocity reconstruction (DoVeR) for intracardiac flow fields evaluation. Furthermore, advances in assessment of cardiovascular anatomy using computed tomography (CT) improve the integration of imaging in ablation procedures. Additionally, the inclusion of cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) parameters as risk score predictors for morbidity, and mortality and for timing of pulmonary valve replacement (PVR) indicates its significance in clinical management. The utilization of 4D flow techniques for postoperative hemodynamic assessment promises new insights into pressure mapping. Lastly, emerging technologies such as 3D printing and 3D virtual reality are expected to improve image quality and surgical confidence in preoperative planning.

Developments in multimodality imaging in TOF and DORV are poised to shape the future of clinical practice in this field.
Treatment of transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis
Authors: Bampatsias Dimitrios , Wardhere Abdirahman , Maurer Mathew S.
Published: April 2024

Purpose of review

Tafamidis is currently the only approved disease-modifying treatment for ATTR-CM. However, there have been important developments in the treatment of ATTR-CM, as the results of two phase 3 trials were published and several other trials are in their final stages. In this review, we summarize current and future therapies for ATTR-CM.

Recent findings

Recently, acoramidis, a TTR stabilizer has been proven to be effective in reducing mortality and morbidity compared to placebo in the ATTRibute-CM trial. Additionally, patisiran, an RNA silencer, preserved functional capacity and quality of life compared to placebo in the APOLLO-B trial. However, the FDA declined to approve patisiran for ATTR-CM. The results of phase 1 trial of ALXN2220, an antiamyloid antibody raise hope for reversal of myocardial damage by amyloid depletion. Phase 3 trials evaluating the efficacy of different RNA silencers, gene editing with CRISPR-Cas9, and other anti-amyloid antibodies are ongoing.

Therapies targeting different mechanism in the pathophysiology of ATTR-CM provide new alternatives for treating patients with ATTR-CM. Future research should focus on comparing their effectiveness, the potential of combined treatment with agents from different classes and on identifying the patients who will benefit most from each class of medication.
Ultrasound-based steatosis grading system using 2D-attenuation imaging: An individual patient data meta-analysis with external validation
Authors: Hobeika Christian , Ronot Maxime , Guiu Boris , Ferraioli Giovanna , Iijima Hiroko , Tada Toshifumi , Lee Dong Ho , Kuroda Hidekatsu , Lee Young Hwan , Lee Jeong Min , Kim So Yeon , Cassinotto Christophe , Maiocchi Laura , Raimondi Ambra , Nishimura Takashi , Kumada Takashi , Kwon Eun Young , Jang Jong Keon , Correas Jean-Michel , Valla Dominique , Vilgrain Valérie , Dioguardi Burgio Marco
Published: April 2024

Background and Aims:

Noninvasive tools assessing steatosis, such as ultrasonography-based 2D-attenuation imaging (ATI), are needed to tackle the worldwide burden of steatotic liver disease. This one-stage individual patient data (IPD) meta-analysis aimed to create an ATI-based steatosis grading system.

Approach and Results:

A systematic review (EMBASE + MEDLINE, 2018–2022) identified studies, including patients with histologically or magnetic resonance imaging proton-density fat fraction (MRI-PDFF)–verified ATI for grading steatosis (S0 to S3). One-stage IPD meta-analyses were conducted using generalized mixed models with a random study-specific intercept. Created ATI-based steatosis grading system (aS0 to aS3) was externally validated on a prospective cohort of patients with type 2 diabetes and metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease (n=174, histologically and MRI-PDFF–verified steatosis). Eleven enrolled studies included 1374 patients, classified into S0, S1, S2, and S3 in 45.4%, 35.0%, 9.3%, and 10.3% of the cases. ATI was correlated with histological steatosis (r = 0.60; 95% CI: 0.52, 0.67; p < 0.001) and MRI-PDFF (r = 0.70; 95% CI: 0.66, 0.73; p < 0.001) but not with liver stiffness (r = 0.03; 95% CI: −0.04, 0.11, p = 0.343). Steatosis grade was an independent factor associated with ATI (coefficient: 0.24; 95% CI: [0.22, 0.26]; p < 0.001). ATI marginal means within S0, S1, S2, and S3 subpopulations were 0.59 (95% CI: [0.58, 0.61]), 0.69 (95% CI [0.67, 0.71]), 0.78 (95% CI: [0.76, 0.81]), and 0.85 (95% CI: [0.83, 0.88]) dB/cm/MHz; all contrasts between grades were significant (p < 0.0001). Three ATI thresholds were calibrated to create a new ATI-based steatosis grading system (aS0 to aS3, cutoffs: 0.66, 0.73, and 0.81 dB/cm/MHz). Its external validation showed Obuchowski measures of 0.84 ± 0.02 and 0.82 ± 0.02 with histologically based and MRI-PDFF–based references.

Conclusions:

ATI is a reliable, noninvasive marker of steatosis. This validated ATI-based steatosis grading system could be valuable in assessing patients with metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease.
Two Decades of Department of Veterans Affairs Traumatic Brain Injury Care and Benefits for Veterans of Post-9/11 Conflicts
Authors: Whiteneck Gale , Williams William , Almeida Emily , Bidelspach Douglas , Culpepper William , Picon Linda M. , Eagye CB , Dr Mellick David
Published: April 2024

Objective:

To describe the background, methodology, and results of the congressionally mandated Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Veterans Health Registry.

Setting:

Veterans Health Administration (VHA) and Veterans Benefit Administration (VBA).

Participants:

A total of 441 639 Veterans of post-9/11 conflicts who exhibited symptoms associated with TBI and sought care or benefits from the VA between September 2001 and September 2021. Design: Retrospective analysis of VHA and VBA administrative records.

Main Measures:

(1) VA/Department of Defense Identity Repository to identify Veterans with a deployment to the Southwest Asia theater of operations; (2) the VA TBI Screening and Evaluation Program data; (3) Inpatient and Outpatient Encounter data; and (4) an extract of the VBA Corporate Database to identify Veterans filing benefit claims based on TBI.

Results:

An unduplicated total of 441 639 post-9/11 Veterans were identified in the Registry via three different pathways to entry: 369 909 Veterans through a positive TBI Screen, 253 177 Veterans receiving healthcare including a TBI diagnosis, and 108 541 Veterans filing TBI disability claims. Among Veterans reporting current TBI symptoms who completed a clinical evaluation, a diagnosis of TBI was confirmed by a TBI specialist in 68.7% of the cases. The TBI severity of confirmed cases was classified as mild in 86.6% of the cases, moderate in 8.3%, and severe in 4.1%. The TBI Registry Veterans were hospitalized 66 503 times and seen 1 521 898 times as outpatients in VHA facilities with diagnoses including TBI. Among Veterans filing TBI disability claims, 67.3% were adjudicated as service-connected.

Conclusion:

The VA TBI Health Registry has identified over 440 000 Veterans of post-9/11 conflicts who presented to the VA for care or benefits with TBI symptomatology. This large number and the volume of TBI health care and benefits provided over the two decades since 9/11 demonstrate the need for the VA’s strong ongoing focus on screening, evaluation, and rehabilitation of TBI.
Quorum sensing: An emerging role for Vibrio infection and host defense
Authors: Lin Hao-Nan , Huang Xian-Hui , Miao Xin-Jun , Hu Wei-Lin , Lou Yong-Liang , Xie Dan-Li
Published: April 2024

Quorum sensing (QS) is a mechanism that allows bacteria to regulate various physiological and biochemical functions by secreting, sensing and responding to signaling molecules called autoinducers (AIs). In Vibrio species, QS plays a crucial role in modulating different biological characteristics. QS can influence the formation of biofilms, which are communities of bacteria encased in a protective matrix. It also controls flagella formation and motility, ensuring that Vibrio spp. can move efficiently in response to environmental cues. Additionally, QS in Vibrio spp. regulates the production of different virulence factors based on cell density. This enables the bacteria to adjust their virulence strategies accordingly, enhancing pathogenicity. QS also influences the interaction between Vibrio spp. and their host. Following infection by Vibrio spp., QS can affect the host immune response and colonization processes. Understanding the role of QS in these interactions is crucial for unraveling the complex dynamics between Vibrio spp. and the host. In summary, research on QS in Vibrio spp. has revealed its significance in regulating various biological phenotypes, controlling virulence factor production and affecting host defense. It provides valuable insights into the intricate mechanisms underlying microbial behavior, host adaptation and Vibrio spp. pathogenesis.
VAULT: vault accuracy using deep learning technology: new image-based artificial intelligence model for predicting implantable collamer lens postoperative vault
Authors: Nasser Taj , Hirabayashi Matthew , Virdi Gurpal , Abramson Andrew , Parkhurst Gregory
Published: April 2024

Purpose:

To develop an accurate deep learning model to predict postoperative vault of phakic implantable collamer lenses (ICLs).

Setting:

Parkhurst NuVision LASIK Eye Surgery, San Antonio, Texas.

Design:

Retrospective machine learning study.

Methods:

437 eyes of 221 consecutive patients who underwent ICL implantation were included. A neural network was trained on preoperative very high–frequency digital ultrasound images, patient demographics, and postoperative vault.

Results:

3059 images from 437 eyes of 221 patients were used to train the algorithm on individual ICL sizes. The 13.7 mm size was excluded because of insufficient data. A mean absolute error of 66.3 μm, 103 μm, and 91.8 μm were achieved with 100%, 99.0%, and 96.6% of predictions within 500 μm for the 12.1 mm, 12.6 mm, and 13.2 mm sizes, respectively.

Conclusions:

This deep learning model achieved a high level of accuracy of predicting postoperative ICL vault with the overwhelming majority of predictions successfully within a clinically acceptable margin of vault.
The safety and efficacy of neoadjuvant immunochemotherapy following laparoscopic gastrectomy for gastric cancer: a multicentre real-world clinical study
Authors: Sun Yu-Qin , Zhong Qing , Lv Chen-Bin , Zhu Ji-Yun , Lin Guang-Tan , Zhang Zhi-Quan , Wu Dong , Weng Cai-Ming , Chen Qiu-Xian , Lian Ming-Qiao , Zeng Wei-Ming , Zhang Yong-Bin , Chen Qi-Yue , Lin Jian-Xian , Xie Jian-Wei , Li Ping , Zheng Chao-Hui , Lu Jun , Cai Li-Sheng , Huang Chang-Ming
Published: April 2024

Background:

The safety and efficacy of neoadjuvant immunochemotherapy (nICT) for locally advanced gastric cancer (LAGC) remain controversial.

Methods:

Patients with LAGC who received either nICT or neoadjuvant chemotherapy (nCT) at 3 tertiary referral teaching hospitals in China between January 2016 and October 2022 were analyzed. After propensity-score matching (PSM), comparing the radiological response, pathological response rate, perioperative outcomes, and early recurrence between the two groups.

Results:

After PSM, 585 patients were included, with 195 and 390 patients comprising the nICT and nCT groups, respectively. The nICT group exhibited a higher objective response rate (79.5% vs. 59.0%; P<0.001), pathological complete response rate (14.36% vs. 6.41%; P=0.002) and major pathological response rate (39.49% vs. 26.15%; P=0.001) compared with the nCT group. The incidence of surgical complications (17.44% vs. 16.15%, P=0.694) and the proportion of perioperative textbook outcomes (80.0% vs. 81.0%; P=0.767) were similar in both groups. The nICT group had a significantly lower proportion of early recurrence than the nCT group (29.7% vs. 40.8%; P=0.047). Furthermore, the multivariable logistic analysis revealed that immunotherapy was an independent protective factor against early recurrence [odds ratio 0.62 (95% CI 0.41–0.92); P=0.018]. No significant difference was found in neoadjuvant therapy drug toxicity between the two groups (51.79% vs. 45.38%; P=0.143).

Conclusions:

Compared with nCT, nICT is safe and effective, which significantly enhanced objective and pathological response rates and reduced the risk for early recurrence among patients with LAGC.

Trial registration:

Clinical Trials.gov.
DNA damage, obesity and obesity-related health complications: what are new data telling us?
Authors: Włodarczyk Marta , Nowicka Grażyna
Published: April 2024

Purpose of review

Obesity is associated with increased DNA damage, which may in turn contribute to the development of obesity-related complications. DNA damage can also affect adipocyte biology, resulting in increased adiposity. Carefully managed weight loss programs can reverse this process. This article surveys new data that support these contentions.

Recent findings

Whole exome sequencing analyses have identified rare variants linked to high BMI and adiposity. Two of the identified genes are linked to DNA damage and DNA repair, suggesting that DNA damage itself may play a role in the cause of obesity. It has also been recognized that obesity increases DNA damage in breast tissue of carriers of BRCA mutations and rates of tumour formation in BRCA1+ mice, indicating effect of obesity on cancer development in high-risk populations. In addition, obesity promotes cancer cell chemoresistance by decreasing fatty acid oxidation involved in cellular DNA damage response, leading to apoptotic cellular death. Obesity is also associated with a reduced capacity of oocytes to repair sperm DNA damage, leading to lower in-vitro fertilization rates in women with obesity.

DNA damage and cellular responses to DNA damage can be both the result and the cause of obesity and can strongly influence the development and treatment of obesity-associated diseases.
CAR-T Therapy Followed by Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Can Improve Survival in Children Relapsed/Refractory Philadelphia Chromosome–positive B-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Li Yao , Hu Guan-Hua , Xu Lan-Ping , Zhang Xiao-Hui , Liu Kai-Yan , Suo Pan , Wang Yu , Cheng Yi-Fei , Huang Xiao-Jun
Published: April 2024

Background:

Philadelphia chromosome (Ph)-positive B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) has a high complete remission (CR) rate, but relapse and prolonged measurable residual disease remain serious problems. We sought to describe the CR rate measurable residual disease negative rate and address the results and safety of pediatric patients who underwent after receiving chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) specific for CD19 (CAR-19) followed by hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) for the treatment of Ph-positive ALL.

Methods:

A descriptive study was conducted at Peking University People’s Hospital from September 2013 to January 2021. 13 patients with relapsed/refractory Ph-positive B-ALL who received CAR-T therapy followed by allo-HSCT were included. We concentrated on the overall patient survival and CR rate.

Results:

The median time between CAR-T therapy and allo-HSCT was 58 days. Among all the patients, the CR rate was 100%, the flow cytometry negativity rate was 84.62%, and the BCR-ABL negativity rate was 53.85% at 1 month after CAR-T infusion. All the patients achieved a major molecular response in 6 months after HSCT. After a median follow-up of 45 months, the 3-year OS rate was 66.7%, and the 3-year DFS rate was 61.5%. The 3-year OS rate of patients with BCR-ABL-positive pre-HSCT was significantly lower than that in the BCR-ABL-negative group (40.0% vs. 85.7%, P=0.042). Also, the same trend was observed for the 3-year DFS rate but did not differ significantly (40.0% vs. 75.0%, P=0.233).

Conclusions:

CAR-T therapy followed by allo-HSCT can be a safe and effective treatment for Ph-positive B-ALL pediatric patients.