bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sterile versus prolific individuals pertaining to linear-fractional Bienaymé–Galton–Watson trees
Authors: Huillet Thierry , Martínez Servet
Published: August 2023

In a Bienaymé–Galton–Watson process, for which there is a positive probability of individuals having no offspring, there is a subtle balance and dependence between the sterile nodes (the dead nodes or leaves) and the prolific nodes (the productive nodes), both at and up to the current generation. We explore the many facets of this problem, especially within the context of an exactly solvable linear-fractional branching mechanism, for which a distributional approach to asymptotics is made possible. The relation of this special branching process to skip-free to the left and simple random walks’ excursions is then investigated. Mutual statistical information on their shapes can be learnt from this association.
Lifetime of locally stable states near a phase transition in the Thirring model
Authors: Saadat Elaheh , Latella Ivan , Ruffo Stefano
Published: August 2023

We study the lifetime of locally stable states in the Thirring model, which describes a system of particles whose interactions are long-range. The model exhibits first-order phase transitions in the canonical ensemble and, therefore, a free energy barrier separates two free energy minima. The energy of the system diffuses as a result of thermal fluctuations and we show that its dynamics can be described by means of a Fokker–Planck equation. Considering an initial state where the energy takes the value corresponding to one of the minima of the free energy, we can define the lifetime of the initial state as the mean first-passage time for the system to reach the top of the free energy barrier between the minima. We use an analytical formula for the mean first-passage time which is based on the knowledge of the exact free energy of the model, even at a finite number of particles. This formula shows that the lifetime of locally stable states increases exponentially in the number of particles, which is a typical feature of systems with long-range interactions. We also perform Monte Carlo simulations in the canonical ensemble in order to obtain the probability distribution of the first-passage time, which turns out to be exponential in time in a long time limit. The numerically obtained mean first-passage time agrees with the theoretical prediction. Combining theory and simulations, our work provides a new insight in the study of metastability in many-body systems with long-range interactions.
3,6-Epidioxy-1,10-bisaboladiene and sulfasalazine synergistically induce ferroptosis-like cell death in human breast cancer cell lines
Authors: Usukhbayar Narandulam , Uesugi Shota , Kimura Ken-ichi
Published: August 2023

3,6-Epidioxy-1,10-bisaboladiene (EDBD) is an endoperoxide compound isolated from edible wild plants that induces iron-dependent ferroptosis-like cell death in HL-60 cells by decreasing the expression of GPX4 and glutathione. In contrast, sulfasalazine (SSZ), a clinically used anti-inflammatory drug, induces ferroptosis through the system xc−. In this study, we investigated the synergistic effects of these 2 compounds on 3 human breast cancer cell lines (HBC-5, MCF-7, and MDA-MB-231). EDBD-induced cell death was relieved by the lipid peroxidation inhibitor ferrostatin-1 and the iron chelator deferoxamine mesylate (DFOM), indicating that EDBD induced ferroptosis-like cell death. Moreover, cotreatment with EDBD and SSZ synergistically induced cell death in all 3 cell lines. Because the cytotoxicity of the cotreatment was inhibited by DFOM and ferrostatin-1, the combination of EDBD and SSZ synergistically induced ferroptosis. Collectively, EDBD enhanced the effects of SSZ as a clinical anti-inflammatory and anticancer drug candidate.
Reliability and agreement testing of a new automated measurement method to determine facial vitiligo extent using standardized ultraviolet images and a dedicated algorithm
Authors: Marin Dit Bertoud Quentin , Bertold Clémence , Ezzedine Khaled , Pandya Amit G , Cherel Marie , Castillo Martinez Alejandro , Seguy Marie-Anne , Abdallah Marwa , Bae Jung Min , Böhm Markus , Parsad Davinder , Rosmarin David , Wolkerstorfer Albert , Bahadoran Philippe , Blaise Manon , Dugourd Pierre-Michel , Philippo Valérie , Delaval Jean-Michel , Passeron Thierry
Published: August 2023

Background

Facial repigmentation is the primary outcome measure for most vitiligo trials. The Facial Vitiligo Area Scoring Index (F-VASI) score is often chosen as the primary outcome measure to assess the efficacy of treatments for facial vitiligo. Although useful, this scoring system remains subjective and has several limitations.

Objectives

To assess the agreement and reliability of an algorithmic method to measure the percentage depigmentation of vitiligo on the face.

Methods

We developed a dedicated algorithm called Vitil-IA® to assess depigmentation on standardized facial ultraviolet (UV) pictures. We then conducted a cross-sectional study using the framework of the ERASE trial (NCT04843059) in 22 consecutive patients attending a tertiary care centre for vitiligo. Depigmentation was analysed before any treatment and, for 7 of them, after 3 and 6 months of narrowband UVB treatment combined with 16 mg methylprednisolone, both used twice weekly. Interoperator and interacquisition repeatability measures were assessed for the algorithm. The results of the algorithmic measurement were then compared with the F-VASI and the percentage of depigmented skin scores assessed by 13 raters, including 7 experts in the grading of vitiligo lesions.

Results

Thirty-one sets of pictures were analysed with the algorithmic method. Internal validation showed excellent reproducibility, with a variation of < 3%. The percentage of depigmentation assessed by the system showed high agreement with the percentage of depigmentation assessed by raters [mean error (ME) –11.94 and mean absolute error (MAE) 12.71 for the nonexpert group; ME 0.43 and MAE 5.57 for the expert group]. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) for F-VASI was 0.45 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.29–0.62] and 0.52 (95% CI 0.37–0.68) for nonexperts and experts, respectively. When the results were analysed separately for homogeneous and heterogeneous depigmentation, the ICC for homogeneous depigmentation was 0.47 (95% CI 0.31–0.77) and 0.85 (95% CI 0.72–0.94) for nonexperts and experts, respectively. When grading heterogeneous depigmentation, the ICC was 0.19 (95% CI 0.05–0.43) and 0.38 (95% CI 0.20–0.62) for nonexperts and experts, respectively.

Conclusions

We demonstrated that the Vitil-IA algorithm provides a reliable assessment of facial involvement in vitiligo. The study underlines the limitations of the F-VASI score when performed by nonexperts for homogeneous vitiligo depigmentation, and in all raters when depigmentation is heterogeneous.
Barriers and facilitators of adherence to the use of ASICA, a digital app designed to support people previously treated for melanoma: concise report of a qualitative study
Authors: Ntessalen Maria , McCorkindale Sajan , Krasniqi Albana , Morgan Heather M , Allan Julia L , Murchie Peter
Published: August 2023

We developed the Achieving Self-directed Integrated Cancer Aftercare (ASICA) in melanoma app to support monthly total-skin self-examinations (TSSE) by people previously treated for melanoma. A randomized 12-month trial demonstrated ASICA supported optimal monthly TSSE adherence in a third of participants (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03328247). However, a further third of participants adhered well initially but subsequently dropped off, and a final third did not adhere at all. This follow-up qualitative study investigated trial participants’ perceptions of barriers and facilitators to TSSE adherence using the app. Three former trial participants participated in a single focus group and 11 participated in new semistructured telephone interviews. These were analysed thematically alongside secondary analysis of 13 qualitative interviews conducted during the trial. All transcripts were recorded, transcribed and analysed thematically. Five themes encompassing barriers and facilitators to ASICA adherence emerged. These were: technology, role of others, tailoring, disease journey and competing priorities. These data will inform further development of ASICA to increase user adherence.
Reclassification of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: a multi-society Delphi consensus statement
Authors: Bajo Fernando Rodriguez , Shipman Kate E
Published: August 2023

This is a summary article of a noteworthy publication that has reclassified nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) to metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), respectively. A new term, MASLD with increased alcohol intake (MetALD), has been proposed to classify patients previously classified as having NAFLD with excess alcohol intake. This article is designed to draw the reader’s attention to the changes in nomenclature in liver disease. This is pertinent in dermatology as many patients copresent with MASLD.
Current issues with procollagen III N-terminal peptide assay performance relevant to 2016 British Association for Dermatologist methotrexate-monitoring guidance
Authors: Taylor David R , Stone Colin
Published: August 2023

Procollagen III N-terminal peptide (P3NP) testing is routinely used to detect possible liver fibrosis according to the cutoffs in the British Association of Dermatologists (BAD) 2016 guidelines for the safe and effective prescribing of methotrexate in skin disease. We report significant changes to P3NP test performance that will potentially change patient management according to the BAD 2016 guidelines.
Oral Lipid Nanocrystal Amphotericin B for Cryptococcal Meningitis: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Boulware David R , Atukunda Mucunguzi , Kagimu Enock , Musubire Abdu K , Akampurira Andrew , Tugume Lillian , Ssebambulidde Kenneth , Kasibante John , Nsangi Laura , Mugabi Timothy , Gakuru Jane , Kimuda Sarah , Kasozi Derrick , Namombwe Suzan , Turyasingura Isaac , Rutakingirwa Morris K , Mpoza Edward , Kigozi Enos , Muzoora Conrad , Ellis Jayne , Skipper Caleb P , Matkovits Theresa , Williamson Peter R , Williams Darlisha A , Fieberg Ann , Hullsiek Kathy H , Abassi Mahsa , Dai Biyue , Meya David B
Published: August 2023

Background

Amphotericin B is the gold standard treatment for severe mycoses. A new orally delivered, less-toxic formulation of amphotericin has been developed.

Methods

In our randomized clinical trial, we tested oral lipid nanocrystal (LNC) amphotericin B (MAT2203, Matinas Biopharma) vs intravenous (IV) amphotericin for human immunodeficiency virus–associated cryptococcal meningitis in 4 sequential cohorts. Two pilot cohorts assessed safety and tolerability (n = 10 each), and 2 cohorts assessed efficacy with/without 2 IV loading doses (n = 40 each). The experimental arm received 1.8 g/d oral LNC amphotericin through 2 weeks with 100 mg/kg/d flucytosine, then 1.2 g/d LNC amphotericin through 6 weeks. The randomized control arm (n = 41) received 7 days of IV amphotericin with flucytosine, then 7 days of fluconazole 1200 mg/d. The primary end point was cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) early fungicidal activity (EFA).

Results

We randomized 80 participants to oral LNC amphotericin + flucytosine with (n = 40) and without (n = 40) 2 IV loading doses and 41 control participants to IV amphotericin + flucytosine. Mean EFA was 0.40 log10 colony-forming units (CFU)/mL/d for all-oral LNC amphotericin, 0.42 log10  Cryptococcus CFU/mL/d for oral LNC amphotericin with IV loading doses, and 0.46 log10 CFU/mL/d for IV amphotericin controls. LNC amphotericin groups achieved 2-week CSF sterility in 63% (44 of 70) vs 68% (23 of 34) of controls. The 18-week survival was 85% (34 of 40) with all-oral LNC amphotericin, 90% (36 of 40) with oral LNC amphotericin given IV loading doses, and 85% (35 of 41) with IV amphotericin.

Grade 3–4 laboratory adverse events occurred less frequently in LNC amphotericin groups (41%) than the IV amphotericin group (61%, P = .05), particularly for anemia (21% vs 44%; P = .01) and potassium (5% vs 17%; P = .04).

Conclusions

This new oral amphotericin B LNC formulation appears promising for cryptococcal meningitis with antifungal activity, similar survival, and less toxicity than IV amphotericin.

Clinical Trials Registration

NCT04031833.
Pregnancy and Birth Outcomes in Patients With Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis Treated With Regimens That Include New and Repurposed Drugs
Authors: Lotia Farrukh Ismat , Lachenal Nathalie , Adenov Malik M , Ahmed Saman , Algozhin Yerkebulan , Coutisson Sylvine , Garavito Epifanio Sánchez , Hewison Catherine , Holtzman David , Huerga Helena , Janmohamed Aleeza , Khan Palwasha Y , Jacques Gamarly Leblanc , Lomtadze Nino , Melikyan Nara , Mitnick Carole D , Mussabekova Gulnaz , Osso Elna , Perea Sara , Putri Fauziah Asnely , Rashidov Mahmud , Rich Michael L , Sakhabutdinova Yekaterina , Seung Kwonjune J , Stambekova Assel , Vásquez Dante Vargas , Franke Molly F , Khan Uzma
Published: August 2023

Among 43 pregnant women receiving multidrug-resistant/rifampicin-resistant tuberculosis (MDR/RR-TB) treatment with bedaquiline and/or delamanid, 98% had favorable treatment outcomes. Of 31 continued pregnancies, 81% had live births with no reported malformations, and 68% of neonates had normal birth weights. Effective MDR/RR-TB treatment during pregnancy can improve maternal outcomes without harming neonates.
Developing a personalized remote patient monitoring algorithm: a proof-of-concept in heart failure
Authors: Moazeni Mehran , Numan Lieke , Brons Maaike , Houtgraaf Jaco , Rutten Frans H , Oberski Daniel L , van Laake Linda W , Asselbergs Folkert W , Aarts Emmeke
Published: August 2023

Aims

Non-invasive remote patient monitoring is an increasingly popular technique to aid clinicians in the early detection of worsening heart failure (HF) alongside regular follow-ups. However, previous studies have shown mixed results in the performance of such systems. Therefore, we developed and evaluated a personalized monitoring algorithm aimed at increasing positive-predictive-value (PPV) (i.e. alarm quality) and compared performance with simple rule-of-thumb and moving average convergence-divergence algorithms (MACD).

Methods and results

In this proof-of-concept study, the developed algorithm was applied to retrospective data of daily bodyweight, heart rate, and systolic blood pressure of 74 HF-patients with a median observation period of 327 days (IQR: 183 days), during which 31 patients experienced 64 clinical worsening HF episodes. The algorithm combined information on both the monitored patients and a group of stable HF patients, and is increasingly personalized over time, using linear mixed-effect modelling and statistical process control charts. Optimized on alarm quality, heart rate showed the highest PPV (Personalized: 92%, MACD: 2%, Rule-of-thumb: 7%) with an F1 score of (Personalized: 28%, MACD: 6%, Rule-of-thumb: 8%). Bodyweight demonstrated the lowest PPV (Personalized: 16%, MACD: 0%, Rule-of-thumb: 6%) and F1 score (Personalized: 10%, MACD: 3%, Rule-of-thumb: 7%) overall compared methods.

Conclusion

The personalized algorithm with flexible patient-tailored thresholds led to higher PPV, and performance was more sensitive compared to common simple monitoring methods (rule-of-thumb and MACD). However, many episodes of worsening HF remained undetected. Heart rate and systolic blood pressure monitoring outperformed bodyweight in predicting worsening HF. The algorithm source code is publicly available for future validation and improvement.
Evaluation of population structure inferred by principal component analysis or the admixture model
Authors: van Waaij Jan , Li Song , Garcia-Erill Genís , Albrechtsen Anders , Wiuf Carsten
Published: August 2023

Principal component analysis (PCA) is commonly used in genetics to infer and visualize population structure and admixture between populations. PCA is often interpreted in a way similar to inferred admixture proportions, where it is assumed that individuals belong to one of several possible populations or are admixed between these populations. We propose a new method to assess the statistical fit of PCA (interpreted as a model spanned by the top principal components) and to show that violations of the PCA assumptions affect the fit. Our method uses the chosen top principal components to predict the genotypes. By assessing the covariance (and the correlation) of the residuals (the differences between observed and predicted genotypes), we are able to detect violation of the model assumptions. Based on simulations and genome-wide human data, we show that our assessment of fit can be used to guide the interpretation of the data and to pinpoint individuals that are not well represented by the chosen principal components. Our method works equally on other similar models, such as the admixture model, where the mean of the data is represented by linear matrix decomposition.
Clinical Prediction Models for Nonmortality Outcomes in Older Adults With Hip Fractures: A Systematic Review
Authors: Kaizu Yoichi , Tamura Shuntaro , Saito Hiroyuki , Hayashi Shota , Iwamoto Hiroki , Miyata Kazuhiro
Published: August 2023

Background

Several hip fracture clinical prediction models have been developed. We conducted this study to (i) map outcomes used in clinical prediction models for hip fracture, (ii) identify the domains and instruments of predictors, and (iii) assess the risk of bias.

Methods

We performed systematic searches of studies published from June 2002 to June 2023 in the PubMed, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, CiNii, and Ichushi databases. After the relevant articles were identified, we performed the data extraction and bias risk assessment. We used the Prediction Study Risk Of Bias Assessment Tool (PROBAST) to assess each study’s risk of bias. Outcome mapping was performed for the core outcome set of hip fractures. Qualitative synthesis and the PROBAST evaluation were performed on other-than-mortality core outcomes, which are difficult to target in rehabilitation.

Results

We screened 3 206 studies for eligibility; 45 studies were included in the outcome mapping, and 10 studies were included in the qualitative synthesis. Outcomes included mortality (n = 35), mobility (n = 8), and activities of daily living (n = 2). No clinical prediction models had pain or health-related quality of life as an outcome. Predictors were reported in 8 domains and 38 measures. The PROBAST evaluation showed a high risk of bias in all 10 studies that were eligible for a qualitative synthesis.

Conclusions

The clinical prediction models had only mortality, mobility, and activities of daily living as outcomes. The development of clinical prediction models with pain and health-related quality of life as outcomes is necessary. Clinical prediction models overcoming the risk of bias identified in this study are also needed.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease Is an Independent Risk Factor for Metabolic Dysfunction–Associated Steatotic Liver Disease in Lean Individuals
Authors: Martínez-Domínguez Samuel J , García-Mateo Sandra , Gargallo-Puyuelo Carla J , Gallego-Llera Beatriz , Callau Pilar , Mendi Carolina , Arroyo-Villarino María Teresa , Simón-Marco Miguel Ángel , Ampuero Javier , Gomollón Fernando
Published: August 2023

Background

Despite classical association between metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and obesity, there is increasing evidence on the development of MASLD in lean individuals. The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence and risk factors of MASLD and significant liver fibrosis in lean participants with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Methods

This was a cross-sectional, case-control study including 300 lean cases with IBD and 80 lean controls without IBD, matched by sex and age. All participants underwent a liver ultrasound, transient elastography, and laboratory tests.

Results

The lean IBD group showed a significantly higher prevalence of MASLD compared with lean non-IBD group (21.3% vs 10%; P = .022), but no differences were observed in the prevalence of significant liver fibrosis (4.7% vs 0.0%; P = 1.000). No differences were found between the prevalence of MASLD in IBD and non-IBD participants who were overweight/obese (66.8% vs 70.8%; P = .442). In addition, the prevalence of MASLD was significantly higher in the overweight/obese IBD group compared with the lean IBD group (P < .001). IBD was an independent risk factor for MASLD in lean participants (odds ratio [OR], 2.71; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.05-7.01; P = .04), after adjusting for classic metabolic risk factors and prior history of systemic steroid use. Nevertheless, no association between IBD related factors and MASLD was identified in lean IBD participants. When the overweight/obese and lean IBD groups with MASLD were compared, the overweight/obese IBD group with MASLD showed higher levels of the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (OR, 1.49; 95% CI, 1.11-1.98; P = .007) and history of smoking (OR, 4.66; 95% CI, 1.17-18.49; P = .029).

Conclusions

MASLD prevalence was higher in the lean IBD group compared with lean non-IBD group, independent of classic metabolic risk factors.
Barcode and radio frequency identification utilization varied across Korean hospitals
Authors: Mahmudah Noor Afif , Shin Ho Gyun , Ock Minsu , Jo Ae Jeong , Min Ari , Pyo Jeehee , Im Dasom , Kim Sukyeong
Published: August 2023

Barcodes and radio frequency identification (RFID) are increasingly used in health care to improve patient safety. However, studies on their utilization in clinical settings are limited. This study aimed to comprehensively examine the utilization status of barcodes and RFID in Korean hospitals, recognize the effects and obstacles associated with utilization, and explore the measures to expand the applications of barcodes and RFID. A self-reported online survey was conducted in tertiary hospitals, general hospitals, hospitals, and nursing hospitals in the Republic of Korea. The survey questionnaire comprised questions on barcodes and RFID utilization status, the effect of barcodes and RFID utilization, measures to expand the utilization of barcodes and RFID, and information on respondents’ demographics and hospitals. A representative from each of 23 tertiary hospitals, 101 general hospitals, 232 hospitals, and 214 nursing hospitals completed the survey (total response rate 17%). The data were analysed using the chi-square test or Fisher's exact test to determine the differences in responses based on the type and characteristics of hospitals. The tertiary hospitals had the highest utilizations of both RFID and barcodes (n = 10, 43.5%), whereas the nursing hospitals had the lowest (n = 96, 55.1%). Barcodes and RFID were most commonly used in the visits and security management domains. However, the use of barcodes and RFID in medication dispensing and administration safety was low, despite its value in improving patient safety. The hospitals recognized the positive effect of utilization of barcodes and RFID, reporting the highest frequency for the prevention of patient safety incidents (n = 79, 85.9%). Nevertheless, the cost of barcodes and RFID facility investments (n = 128, 90.3%) appeared to be the greatest obstacle to the introduction of barcodes and RFID. Hence, barcodes and RFID facility investment support (n = 133, 95.5%) were given the highest priority among the measures to expand barcode and RFID utilization in health care. The utilization of barcodes and RFID varied across the type and domain of hospitals in the Republic of Korea. Hospitals recognized the positive effects of barcode and RFID utilization. Nonetheless, all hospitals were concerned about the cost of investment and maintenance of barcode and RFID facilities as the main obstacles to utilization. Therefore, a support plan must be developed for the cost of barcodes and RFID facility investments to expand barcode and RFID utilization in health care.
Design for Emergency: How Digital Technologies Enabled an Open Design Platform to Respond to COVID-19
Authors: Colombo Sara , Ciliotta Estefania , Marengo Lucia , Liu Houjiang , Molino Piero , Ciuccarelli Paolo
Published: August 2023

In the COVID-19 pandemic, digital technologies (DT) supported the design and implementation of solutions addressing new needs and living conditions. We describe Design for Emergency, a digital open design platform developed to ideate solutions for people's fast-changing needs in the pandemic, to analyze how DT can affect human-centered design processes during emergencies. We illustrate how DT: i) helped quickly collect and analyse people's needs in different countries, visualize such data, and identify design directions and problem spaces; ii) facilitated the creation of a virtual network of stakeholders and an open-innovation digital platform; iii) inspired the ideation of solutions responding to people's changing needs and affected their implementation. We discuss the implications of adopting DT in designing for and during emergencies, as well as their current and future potential to promptly respond to emergency situations through a human-centered approach.
Jasmonates, gibberellins, and powdery mildew modify cell cycle progression and evoke differential spatiotemporal responses along the barley leaf
Authors: Krasauskas Jovaras , Ganie Showkat Ahmad , Al-Husari Aroub , Bindschedler Laurence , Spanu Pietro , Ito Masaki , Devoto Alessandra
Published: August 2023

Barley (Hordeum vulgare) is an important cereal crop, and its development, defence, and stress responses are modulated by different hormones including jasmonates (JAs) and the antagonistic gibberellins (GAs). Barley productivity is severely affected by the foliar biotrophic fungal pathogen Blumeria hordei. In this study, primary leaves were used to examine the molecular processes regulating responses to methyl-jasmonate (MeJA) and GA to B. hordei infection along the leaf axis. Flow cytometry, microscopy, and spatiotemporal expression patterns of genes associated with JA, GA, defence, and the cell cycle provided insights on cell cycle progression and on the gradient of susceptibility to B. hordei observed along the leaf. Notably, the combination of B. hordei with MeJA or GA pre-treatment had a different effect on the expression patterns of the analysed genes compared to individual treatments. MeJA reduced susceptibility to B. hordei in the proximal part of the leaf blade. Overall, distinctive spatiotemporal gene expression patterns correlated with different degrees of cell proliferation, growth capacity, responses to hormones, and B. hordei infection along the leaf. Our results highlight the need to further investigate differential spatial and temporal responses to pathogens at the organ, tissue, and cell levels in order to devise effective disease control strategies in crops.
Percentage of Th1 and Th17 cells and serum level of IL-17 and IFN-γ cytokines in COVID-19-associated mucormycosis
Authors: Soleimanifar Narjes , Assadiasl Sara , Rostamian Abdolrahman , Abdollahi Alireza , Salehi Mohammadreza , Abdolmaleki Mohsen , Barzegari Saeed , Sobati Abolfazl , Sadr Maryam , Mohebbi Bahareh , Mojtahedi Hanieh , Nicknam Mohammad Hossein
Published: August 2023

The considerable number of the 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) patients who developed mucormycosis infections in West and Central Asia urged a need to investigate the underlying causes of this fatal complication. It was hypothesized that an immunocompromised state secondary to the excessive administration of anti-inflammatory drugs was responsible for the outburst of mucormycosis in COVID-19 patients. Therefore, we aimed to study the implication of two major subsets of adaptive immunity T helper (Th)-1 and Th17 cells in disease development. Thirty patients with COVID-19-associated mucormycosis, 38 with COVID-19 without any sign or symptom of mucormycosis, and 26 healthy individuals were included. The percentage of Th1 and Th17 cells in peripheral blood, as well as the serum levels of interleukin (IL)-17 and interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), were evaluated using flow cytometry and ELISA techniques, respectively. Th17 cell percentage in patients with COVID-19-associated mucormycosis was significantly lower than in COVID-19 patients (P-value: <0.001) and healthy subjects (P-value: 0.01). In addition, the serum level of IL-17 in COVID-19 patients was significantly higher than that of healthy individuals (P-value: 0.01). However, neither the frequency of Th1 cells nor the serum level of IFN-γ was different between the study groups. Given the critical role of Th17 cells in the defense against mucosal fungal infections, these findings suggest that low numbers of Th17 and insufficient levels of IL-17 might be a predisposing factor for the development of mucormycosis during or after COVID-19 infection.
Quantum mechanical modelling of the grain-surface formation of acetaldehyde on H2O:CO dirty ice surfaces
Authors: Perrero Jessica , Ugliengo Piero , Ceccarelli Cecilia , Rimola Albert
Published: August 2023

Acetaldehyde (CH3CHO) is one of the most detected interstellar complex organic molecules (iCOMs) in the interstellar medium (ISM). These species have a potential biological relevance, as they can be precursors of more complex species from which life could have emerged. The formation of iCOMs in the ISM is a challenge and a matter of debate, whether gas-phase, grain-surface chemistry, or both are needed for their synthesis. In the gas-phase, CH3CHO can be efficiently synthesized from ethanol and/or ethyl radical. On the grain-surfaces, radical–radical recombinations were traditionally invoked. However, several pitfalls have been recently identified, such as the presence of energy barriers and competitive side reactions (i.e. H abstractions). Here, we investigate a new grain-surface reaction pathway for the formation of acetaldehyde, namely the reaction between CH3 and a CO molecule of a dirty water/CO ice followed by hydrogenation of its product, CH3CO. To this end, we carried out ab initio computations of the reaction occurring on an ice composed of 75 per cent water and 25 per cent CO molecules. We found that the CH3 + CO(ice) reaction exhibits barriers difficult to overcome in the ISM, either adopting a Langmuir–Hinshelwood or an Eley–Rideal mechanism. The subsequent hydrogenation step is found to be barrierless, provided that the two reacting species have the correct orientation. Therefore, this pathway seems unlikely to occur in the ISM.
Similarity measurement tracking and properties evolution of photospheric bright point groups in the quiet Sun and active region
Authors: Yang Peng , Bai Haicheng , Zhao Limin , Gong Xiaoying , Zhong Libo , Yang Yang , Rao Changhui
Published: August 2023

Photospheric bright points (BPs) fast movement is more effective than the slow movement that occurs most of the time in transmitting energy to the corona. The splitting and merging BPs tend to produce relatively large velocities. Therefore, our aim is to detect and track BP groups. After that, the attribute distribution of BP groups and the attribute evolution under possible high-speed movement are studied and analysed. We use a new BPs detection model (HBD-model) that can effectively detect weak BPs and layered BPs and then use similarity measures to judge the splitting and merging of BPs for tracking. The average accuracy of the BPs detection algorithm is 0.74, and the average accuracy of tracking is more than 85 per cent. For the BPs in the quiet Sun (QS) and active region (AR), a total of 62 388 evolutionary BPs were identified and tracked. The average velocities are more than 2 km s−1 in the QS and ARs. For the QS and ARs, the evolution process of splitting or merging BPs is basically the same. The results show that for the merged BPs, the area and velocity of the BPs are tiny in the initial stage, reach a peak in the middle stage, and then become smaller and disappear. The area, intensity contrast, and velocity of the BPs with splitting are relatively tiny at the beginning, become larger at the middle stage, reach the peak after splitting, and then become smaller and disappear rapidly.
Turbulence dynamics and flow speeds in the inner solar corona: results from radio-sounding experiments by the Akatsuki spacecraft
Authors: Jain Richa N , Choudhary R K , Bhardwaj Anil , Imamura T , Sharma Anshuman , Parikh Umang M
Published: August 2023

The solar inner corona is a region that plays a critical role in energizing the solar wind and propelling it to supersonic and supra-Alfvénic velocities. Despite its importance, this region remains poorly understood because of being least explored due to observational limitations. The coronal radio-sounding technique in this context becomes useful as it helps in providing information in parts of this least explored region. To shed light on the dynamics of the solar wind in the inner corona, we conducted a study using data obtained from coronal radio-sounding experiments carried out by the Akatsuki spacecraft during the 2021 Venus-solar conjunction event. By analysing X-band radio signals recorded at two ground stations (Indian Deep Space Network in Bangalore and Usuda Deep Space Center in Japan), we investigated plasma turbulence characteristics and estimated flow speed measurements based on isotropic quasi-static turbulence models. Our analysis revealed that the speed of the solar wind in the inner corona (at heliocentric distances from 5 to 13 solar radii), ranging from 220 to 550 km s−1, was higher than the expected average flow speeds in this region. By integrating our radio-sounding results with extreme ultraviolet (EUV) images of the solar disc, we gained a unique perspective on the properties and energization of high-velocity plasma streams originating from coronal holes. We tracked the evolution of fast solar wind streams emanating from an extended coronal hole as they propagated to increasing heliocentric distances. Our study provides unique insights into the least-explored inner coronal region by corroborating radio-sounding results with EUV observations of the corona.
The scale of homogeneity in the Rh = ct universe
Authors: Melia Fulvio
Published: August 2023

Studies of the Universe’s transition to smoothness in the context of Lambda cold dark matter (ΛCDM) have all pointed to a transition radius no larger than ∼300 Mpc. These are based on a broad array of tracers for the matter power spectrum, including galaxies, clusters, quasars, the Ly-α forest, and anisotropies in the cosmic microwave background. It is therefore surprising, if not anomalous, to find many structures extending out over scales as large as ∼2 Gpc, roughly an order of magnitude greater than expected. Such a disparity suggests that new physics may be contributing to the formation of large-scale structure, warranting a consideration of the alternative Friedmann–Lemaître–Robertson–Walker cosmology known as the Rh = ct universe. This model has successfully eliminated many other problems in ΛCDM. In this paper, we calculate the fractal (or Hausdorff) dimension in this cosmology as a function of distance, showing a transition to smoothness at ∼2.2 Gpc, fully accommodating all of the giant structures seen thus far. This outcome adds further observational support for Rh = ct over the standard model.
Estimating black hole spin from AGN SED fitting: the impact of general-relativistic ray tracing
Authors: Hagen Scott , Done Chris
Published: August 2023

Accretion disc model fitting to optical/UV quasar spectra requires that the highest mass black holes have the highest spin, with implications on the hierarchical growth of supermassive black holes and their host galaxies over cosmic time. However, these accretion disc models did not include the effects of relativistic ray tracing. Here, we show that gravitational redshift cancels out most of the increase in temperature and luminosity from the smaller radii characteristic of high spin. Disc models which include the self-consistent general relativistic ray tracing do not fit the UV spectra of the most massive quasars (log M/M⊙ ≥ 9.5), most likely showing that the disc structure is very different to that assumed. We extend the relativistic ray tracing on more complex disc models, where the emission is not limited to (colour-temperature-corrected) blackbody radiation but can instead be emitted as warm and hot Comptonization. We demonstrate this on the broad-band (UV/X-ray) spectrum of Fairall 9, a local intensively monitored ‘bare’ active galactic nucleus (no significant intrinsic cold or warm absorption). We show that including relativistic corrections does make a difference even to these more complex models, but caution that the inferred black hole spin depends on the assumed nature and geometry of the accretion flow. Additionally, we make our model code publicly available, and name it relagn.
Revisiting mass–radius relationships for exoplanet populations: a machine learning insight
Authors: Mousavi-Sadr M , Jassur D M , Gozaliasl G
Published: August 2023

The growing number of exoplanet discoveries and advances in machine learning techniques have opened new avenues for exploring and understanding the characteristics of worlds beyond our Solar system. In this study, we employ efficient machine learning approaches to analyse a data set comprising 762 confirmed exoplanets and eight Solar system planets, aiming to characterize their fundamental quantities. By applying different unsupervised clustering algorithms, we classify the data into two main classes: ‘small’ and ‘giant’ planets, with cut-off values at Rp = 8.13R⊕ and Mp = 52.48M⊕. This classification reveals an intriguing distinction: giant planets have lower densities, suggesting higher H–He mass fractions, while small planets are denser, composed mainly of heavier elements. We apply various regression models to uncover correlations between physical parameters and their predictive power for exoplanet radius. Our analysis highlights that planetary mass, orbital period, and stellar mass play crucial roles in predicting exoplanet radius. Among the models evaluated, the Support Vector Regression consistently outperforms others, demonstrating its promise for obtaining accurate planetary radius estimates. Furthermore, we derive parametric equations using the M5P and Markov Chain Monte Carlo methods. Notably, our study reveals a noteworthy result: small planets exhibit a positive linear mass–radius relation, aligning with previous findings. Conversely, for giant planets, we observe a strong correlation between planetary radius and the mass of their host stars, which might provide intriguing insights into the relationship between giant planet formation and stellar characteristics.
A radio bridge connecting the minihalo and phoenix in the Abell 85 cluster
Authors: Raja Ramij , Rahaman Majidul , Datta Abhirup , Smirnov Oleg M
Published: August 2023

Galaxy clusters are located at the nodes of cosmic filaments and therefore host a lot of hydrodynamical activity. However, cool core clusters are considered to be relatively relaxed systems without much merging activity. The Abell 85 cluster is a unique example where the cluster hosts both a cool core and multiple ongoing merging processes. In this work, we used 700 MHz uGMRT as well as MeerKAT L-band observations, carried out as part of the MeerKAT Galaxy Cluster Legacy Survey (MGCLS), of the Abell 85. We reconfirm the presence of a minihalo in the cluster centre at 700 MHz that was recently discovered in MGCLS. Furthermore, we discovered a radio bridge connecting the central minihalo and the peripheral radio phoenix. The mean surface brightness, size, and flux density of the bridge at 700 MHz are found to be ∼0.14 µJy arcsec−2, ∼220 kpc, and ∼4.88 mJy, respectively, with a spectral index of $\alpha _{700}^{1.28} = -0.92$. Although the origin of the seed relativistic electrons is still unknown, turbulent reacceleration caused by both the spiralling sloshing gas in the intracluster medium and the post-shock turbulence from the outgoing merging shock associated with the phoenix formation may be responsible for the bridge.
Assessment of clinical and radiological characteristics of Japanese patients with synovitis, acne, pustulosis, hyperostosis, and osteitis syndrome
Authors: Mori Yu , Izumiyama Takuya , Okuno Hiroshi , Watanuki Munenori , Kanabuchi Ryuichi , Yoshida Shinichiro , Iwatsu Jun , Mori Naoko , Aizawa Toshimi
Published: August 2023

Objective

This study aimed to analyse the radiological characteristics and clinical diversity of Japanese patients with synovitis, acne, pustulosis, hyperostosis, and osteitis (SAPHO) syndrome, a heterogeneous disorder.

Methods

Radiographs and clinical information from 115 Japanese patients (female/male: 81/34; mean age at onset: 48.7 years) diagnosed with SAPHO syndrome between January 2007 and December 2020 were retrospectively reviewed. Additionally, the treatment for SAPHO syndrome was explored.

Results

Among the 115 patients, 70 patients had complications, including palmoplantar pustulosis, acne, or psoriasis. Imaging studies included bone scintigraphy, magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, and positron emission tomography in 71, 58, 70, and 23 patients, respectively. The most frequent lesions were arthritis and hyperostosis of the sternoclavicular joints in 96 patients; spinal lesions, including sacroiliac arthritis, were observed in 85 patients. Peripheral aseptic osteitis was observed in 22 patients, and the tibia was involved in 12. The treatments consisted of analgesics, bisphosphonates, conventional synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, and biologics (tumour necrosis factor inhibitors and interleukin-23p19 inhibitors) in 85, 15, 23, and 10 patients (8 and 2 patients), respectively.

Conclusions

Sternoclavicular hyperostosis and pustulosis are frequently observed in patients with SAPHO syndrome. Biological agents were more frequently used in patients with peripheral osteitis and arthritis.
Models for Mozart’s Transitions: A Transatlantic Exchange
Authors: Martin Nathan John , Kaiser Ulrich
Published: August 2023

This research note comprises two interlinked texts. The first is a short essay that, developing ideas from Ulrich Kaiser’s (2009) article on Mozart’s transitions, isolates and theorizes a particular transition pattern (the “Prinner transition”) and then illustrates with a series of analyses. The second is a response from Kaiser clarifying the difference between Gjerdingen’s Prinner and his own 4^−1^ (fa–ut) model. The immediate theoretical issues in play involve the relationship between schema theory, formal functions, and voice-leading reduction as well as differences between Anglo-American and Germanic understandings of schemata and models.
Poroelastic behavior and water permeability of human skin at the nanoscale
Authors: Oftadeh Ramin , Azadi Mojtaba , Donovan Mark , Langer Jessica , Liao I-Chien , Ortiz Christine , Grodzinsky Alan J , Luengo Gustavo S
Published: August 2023

Topical skin care products and hydrating compositions (moisturizers or injectable fillers) have been used for years to improve the appearance of, for example facial wrinkles, or to increase “plumpness”. Most of the studies have addressed these changes based on the overall mechanical changes associated with an increase in hydration state. However, little is known about the water mobility contribution to these changes as well as the consequences to the specific skin layers. This is important as the biophysical properties and the biochemical composition of normal stratum corneum, epithelium, and dermis vary tremendously from one another.

Our current studies and results reported here have focused on a novel approach (dynamic atomic force microscopy-based nanoindentation) to quantify biophysical characteristics of individual layers of ex vivo human skin. We have discovered that our new methods are highly sensitive to the mechanical properties of individual skin layers, as well as their hydration properties. Furthermore, our methods can assess the ability of these individual layers to respond to both compressive and shear deformations. In addition, since human skin is mechanically loaded over a wide range of deformation rates (frequencies), we studied the biophysical properties of skin over a wide frequency range. The poroelasticity model used helps to quantify the hydraulic permeability of the skin layers, providing an innovative method to evaluate and interpret the impact of hydrating compositions on water mobility of these different skin layers.
Evaluation of belimumab in treatment of Chinese childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus: a prospective analysis from a multicentre study
Authors: Wang Li , Liang Xiaohua , Cao Zhilang , Wang Dahai , Luo Ying , Feng Yuan , Luo Chong , Zhi Shufeng , Huang Yiling , Fan Zhidan , Wang Chaoying , Liu Haimei , Liu Jinxiang , Zhang Tianyu , Cheng Qiuting , Xie Xue , Shuai Lanjun , Rong Zanhua , Zeng Ping , Yu Haiguo , Lu Meiping , Sun Li , Yang Sirui , Zhao Dongmei , Zhang Wei , Wu Xiaochuan , Li Qiu , Wang Yajun , Zhang Qiuye , Yang Jun , Li Xiaoqing , Song Hongmei , Tang Xuemei
Published: August 2023

Objective

The aim of this study is to identify whether low lupus disease activity status (LLDAS) and clinical remission (CR) of belimumab plus standard of care (SoC) therapy are achievable goals in childhood-onset SLE (cSLE).

Methods

This multicentre, one arm pre-post intervention study was conducted at 15 centres in China. The primary end point was to describe the proportion of patients who achieved LLDAS and CR after 3, 6 and 12 months after treatment with belimumab plus SoC therapy. A multiple regression model was used to impute missing data. A Poisson regression model was used to calculate the effect of belimumab treatment on the reduced risk of serious diseases and the incidence of new damage.

Result

A total of 193 (92.2% female) with active cSLE from 15 centres were included. At 3, 6 and 12 months, the proportion of LLDAS (CR) was 12.4% (1.0%), 25.6% (4.5%) and 70.3% (29.7%), respectively. The mean SELENA-SLEDAI score decreased from 11.0 at baseline to 3.7, 2.9 and 1.7 at 3, 6 and 12 months. At baseline, all patients received steroids at a mean (s.d.) prednisone equivalent dose of 31.0 (18.2) mg/day, which decreased to 19.4 (10.8) mg/day at month 3, 12.6 (7.2) mg/day at month 6 and 6.7 (5.3) mg/day at month 12. The symptoms and immunological indicators were also significantly improved.

Conclusion

This is the first and largest sample size prospective clinical intervention study of cSLE patients treated with belimumab in China. LLDAS and CR were attainable treat-to-target of belimumab plus SoC therapy in cSLE.