bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study and perspective on neutron beam divergence improvement achievable by the combination of two or more neutron collimating systems
Authors: Sans-Planell Oriol , Cantini Francesco , Costa Marco , Grazzi Francesco , Morgano Manuel , Yamada Masako
Published: October 2023

This communication presents the results obtained at an experimental campaign at PSI BOA beamline using the combination of the ANET Compact Neutron Collimator (CNC) with the actual BOA pin-hole system. Through extensive resolution campaigns, it has been possible to quantify and understand the effects of improvement on the beam divergence when combining the two collimating systems. A new theoretical approach to this problem is described and discussed. The effect is expected not to be limited to the specific case that has been studied at PSI BOA but to have a more general validity for neutron collimation systems.
Investigation of the thermodynamics of trapped magnetic flux in type-I and type-II superconductors using polarized neutron imaging
Authors: Treimer Wolfgang
Published: October 2023

Polarized neutron imaging was used to observe field cooling (FC) and zero field warming (ZFW) processes in type-I and type-II superconductors. ZFW is an irreversible magnetic process that cannot be described by formulas and therefore it was studied experimentally with polarized neutron imaging to visualize and quantify the trapped magnetic flux as a function of temperature.
Cooling rate of reactant solution in a flow-type supercritical hydrothermal reactor estimated using neutron radiography
Authors: Sasaki Ryosuke , Sato Kosei , Xie Bo , Takami Seiichi , Kubo Masaki , Tsukada Takao , Sugimoto Katsumi , Odaira Naoya , Ito Daisuke , Saito Yasushi
Published: October 2023

Rapid cooling of reactants quenches the intermediate state of chemical reactions and enables the synthesis of novel materials that cannot be realized by thermodynamic equilibrium processes. In this study, we estimated the cooling rate of reactant solutions during the supercritical hydrothermal synthesis of metal oxide nanoparticles. Neutron radiography measurements were performed to visualize the profile of the average water density at a junction where a stream of heated water was mixed with another stream of cooling water. The cooling rate of the heated water that mimicked the reactant solution was estimated using the relationship between the density and temperature of water under constant pressure conditions. This result should provide vital information about the flow-type synthesis of novel metal oxide nanoparticles.
Optimal transportation for electrical impedance tomography
Authors: Bao Gang , Zhang Yixuan
Published: October 2023

This work establishes a framework for solving inverse boundary problems with the geodesic-based quadratic Wasserstein distance (

W

2

W_{2}

). A general form of the Fréchet gradient is systematically derived from the optimal transportation (OT) theory. In addition, a fast algorithm based on the new formulation of OT on

S

1

\mathbb {S}^{1}

is developed to solve the corresponding optimal transport problem. The computational complexity of the algorithm is reduced to

O
(
N
)

O(N)

from

O
(

N

3

)

O(N^{3})

of the traditional method. Combining with the adjoint-state method, this framework provides a new computational approach for solving the challenging electrical impedance tomography problem. Numerical examples are presented to illustrate the effectiveness of our method.
Unexpected examples for the Kobayashi pseudo distance
Authors: Winkelmann Jörg
Published: October 2023

We present some unexpected examples related to the Kobayashi pseudo distance. There are unramified coverings where the Kobayashi pseudo distance vanishes on the base manifold but not on the total space. The Kobayashi pseudo distance may vanish identically even if the Kobayashi-Royden pseudo metric does not.
Amenable wreath products with non almost finite actions of mean dimension zero
Authors: Joseph Matthieu
Published: October 2023

Almost finiteness was introduced in the seminal work of Kerr [J. Eur. Math. Soc. (JEMS) 22 (2020), pp. 3697–3745] as an dynamical analogue ofZ\mathcal {Z}-stability in the Toms-Winter conjecture. In this article, we provide the first examples of minimal, topologically free actions of amenable groups that have mean dimension zero but are not almost finite. More precisely, we prove that there exists an infinite family of amenable wreath products that admit topologically free, minimal profinite actions on the Cantor space which fail to be almost finite. Furthermore, these actions have dynamical comparison. This intriguing new phenomenon shows that Kerr’s dynamical analogue of Toms-Winter conjecture fails for minimal, topologically free actions of amenable groups.

The notion of allosteric group holds a significant position in our study. A group is allosteric if it admits a minimal action on a compact space with an invariant ergodic probability measure that is topologically free but not essentially free. We study allostery of wreath products and provide the first examples of allosteric amenable groups.
An isoperimetric problem with two distinct solutions
Authors: Henrot Antoine , Lemenant Antoine , Lucardesi Ilaria
Published: October 2023

In this paper we prove that among all convex domains of the plane with two axes of symmetry, the maximizer of the first non-trivial Neumann eigenvalue

μ
1

\mu _1

with perimeter constraint is achieved by the square and the equilateral triangle. Part of the result follows from a new general bound on

μ
1

\mu _1

involving the minimal width over the area. Our main result partially answers to a question addressed in 2009 by R. S. Laugesen, I. Polterovich, and B. A. Siudeja.
Effects of arginine in therapeutic protein formulations: a decade review and perspectives
Authors: Ren Steven
Published: October 2023

Arginine (Arg) is a natural amino acid with an acceptable safety profile and a unique chemical structure. Arg and its salts are highly effective in enhancing protein refolding and solubilization, suppressing protein–protein interaction and aggregation and reducing viscosity of high concentration protein formulations. Arg and its salts have been used in research and 20 approved protein injectables. This review summarizes the effects of Arg as an excipient in therapeutic protein formulations with the focus on its physicochemical properties, safety, applications in approved protein products, beneficial and detrimental effects in liquid and lyophilized protein formulations when combined with different counterions and mechanism on protein stabilization and destabilization. The decade literature review indicates that the benefits of Arg overweigh its risks when it is used appropriately. It is recommended to add Arg along with glutamate as a counterion to high concentration protein formulations on top of sugars or polyols to counterbalance the negative effects of Arg hydrochloride. The use of Arg as a viscosity reducer and protein stabilizer in high concentration formulations will be the inevitable future trend of the biopharmaceutical industry for subcutaneous administration.
Head-to-Head Analysis of Vertical vs Horizontal Incision Patterns in Breast Reconstruction: Surgical Outcomes and Aesthetic Implications
Authors: Lakatta Alexis C , Steppe Cyrus , Teotia Sumeet S , Haddock Nicholas T
Published: October 2023

Background

Modern aesthetically optimized breast reconstruction requires collaboration between the patient, breast surgeon, and plastic surgeon. To optimize both surgical outcome and aesthetic results, incision patterns must be carefully planned.

Objectives

We aimed to determine whether vertical or horizontal orientation of mastectomy incision was preferred in the general population and to analyze corresponding complication profiles.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed of all patients undergoing bilateral mastectomy followed by autologous breast reconstruction utilizing either vertical or horizontal incision from January 2011 to November 2022. Postoperative complications of the 2 incision patterns were analyzed. Additionally, crowdsourcing was utilized to assess aesthetic implications of horizontal and vertical incision patterns on postoperative pictures of completed breast reconstruction. Survey rater demographics were also analyzed to assess differences in scoring based on voter characteristics.

Results

There were no significant differences in postoperative breast complications between patients with horizontal or vertical incisions when considering wound, infection, seroma, hematoma, fat necrosis, or overall complications (P > .05). Crowdsourcing showed that, regardless of voter demographics, vertical incisions were preferred over horizontal incisions (P < .001). Additionally, voters who knew someone who had undergone breast reconstruction were more likely to rate all incision patterns higher than other voters (P < .001).

Conclusions

Although there are no significant differences in complication profiles between vertical and horizontal incisions in autologous breast reconstruction patients, vertical incision patterns are preferred aesthetically by the general population.

Level of Evidence: 4
Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss in Patient Incidental to Treatment With Hyaluronic Acid Filler
Authors: Pincelli Thaís , Li Han , Breen Joseph T , Bruce Alison
Published: October 2023

Hyaluronic acid fillers comprise a major component of aesthetic practice with few serious adverse effects. Hearing loss has not been previously associated with hyaluronic acid filler. The authors describe a case in which a patient developed sudden sensorineural hearing loss 1 day after filler injection into the nasolabial folds. Audiogram showed moderately severe sensorineural loss, and MRI revealed no abnormalities. Despite transtympanic steroid injections and hyperbaric oxygen therapy, the hearing loss persists at the time of writing. Although no causal relationships can be drawn from this case alone, this case serves to reinforce the importance of continued vigilance for future occurrences to minimize the potential risk of this serious adverse event.

Level of Evidence: 5
Interventions for bullous pemphigoid: summary of a Cochrane Review
Authors: Kirtschig Gudula , Singh Sanjay
Published: October 2023

This is a summary of the Cochrane review on interventions for Bullous pemphigoid updated and published in 2023.
Influenza Hospitalization Burden by Subtype, Age, Comorbidity, and Vaccination Status: 2012–2013 to 2018–2019 Seasons, Quebec, Canada
Authors: Carazo Sara , Guay Charles-Antoine , Skowronski Danuta M , Amini Rachid , Charest Hugues , De Serres Gaston , Gilca Rodica
Published: October 2023

Background

Influenza immunization programs aim to reduce the risk and burden of severe outcomes. To inform optimal program strategies, we monitored influenza hospitalizations over 7 seasons, stratified by age, comorbidity, and vaccination status.

Methods

We assembled data from 4 hospitals involved in an active surveillance network with systematic collection of nasal samples and polymerase chain reaction testing for influenza virus in all patients admitted through the emergency department with acute respiratory infection during the 2012–2013 to 2018–2019 influenza seasons in Quebec, Canada. We estimated seasonal, population-based incidence of influenza-associated hospitalizations by subtype predominance, age, comorbidity, and vaccine status, and derived the number needed to vaccinate to prevent 1 hospitalization per stratum.

Results

The average seasonal incidence of influenza-associated hospitalization was 89/100 000 (95% confidence interval, 86–93), lower during A(H1N1) (49–82/100 000) than A(H3N2) seasons (73–143/100 000). Overall risk followed a J-shaped age pattern, highest among infants 0–5 months and adults ≥75 years old. Hospitalization risks were highest for children <5 years old during A(H1N1) but for highest adults aged ≥75 years during A(H3N2) seasons. Age-adjusted hospitalization risks were 7-fold higher among individuals with versus without comorbid conditions (214 vs 30/100 000, respectively). The number needed to vaccinate to prevent hospitalization was 82-fold lower for ≥75-years-olds with comorbid conditions (n = 1995), who comprised 39% of all hospitalizations, than for healthy 18–64-year-olds (n = 163 488), who comprised just 6% of all hospitalizations.

Conclusions

In the context of broad-based influenza immunization programs (targeted or universal), severe outcome risks should be simultaneously examined by subtype, age, comorbidity, and vaccine status. Policymakers require such detail to prioritize promotional efforts and expenditures toward the greatest and most efficient program impact.
Empagliflozin improves cardiac energetics during ischaemia/reperfusion by directly increasing cardiac ketone utilization
Authors: Chase Dylan , Eykyn Thomas R , Shattock Michael J , Chung Yu Jin
Published: October 2023

Aims

Empagliflozin (EMPA), a potent inhibitor of the renal sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 and an effective treatment for Type 2 diabetes, has been shown to have cardioprotective effects, independent of improved glycaemic control. Several non-canonical mechanisms have been proposed to explain these cardiac effects, including increasing circulating ketone supply to the heart. This study aims to test whether EMPA directly alters cardiac ketone metabolism independent of supply.

Methods and results

The direct effects of EMPA on cardiac function and metabolomics were investigated in Langendorff rat heart perfused with buffer containing 5 mM glucose, 4 mM β-hydroxybutyrate (βHb) and 0.4 mM intralipid, subject to low flow ischaemia/reperfusion. Cardiac energetics were monitored in situ using 31P NMR spectroscopy. Steady-state 13C labelling was performed by switching 12C substrates for 13C1 glucose or 13C4 βHb and 13C incorporation into metabolites determined using 2D 1H-13C HSQC NMR spectroscopy. EMPA treatment improved left ventricular-developed pressure during ischaemia and reperfusion compared to vehicle-treated hearts. In EMPA-treated hearts, total adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and phosphocreatine (PCr) levels, and Gibbs free energy for ATP hydrolysis were significantly higher during ischaemia and reperfusion. EMPA treatment did not alter the incorporation of 13C from glucose into glycolytic products lactate or alanine neither during ischaemia nor reperfusion. In ischaemia, EMPA led to a decrease in 13C1 glucose incorporation and a concurrent increase in 13C4 βHb incorporation into tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle intermediates succinate, citrate, and glutamate. During reperfusion, the concentration of metabolites originating from 13C1 glucose was similar to vehicle but those originating from 13C4 βHb remained elevated in EMPA-treated hearts.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that EMPA causes a switch in metabolism away from glucose oxidation towards increased ketone utilization in the rat heart, thereby improving function and energetics both during ischaemia and recovery during reperfusion. This preference of ketone utilization over glucose was observed under conditions of constant supply of substrate, suggesting that EMPA acts directly by modulating cardiac substrate preference, independent of substrate availability. The mechanisms underlying our findings are currently unknown, warranting further study.
Resolution of dysglycaemia after treatment of monoclonal gammopathy of endocrine significance
Authors: Grant Bonnie , Ratnayake Gowri , Williams Claire L , Long Anna , Halsall David J , Semple Robert K , Cavenagh James D , Drake William M , Church David S
Published: October 2023

In very rare cases of monoclonal gammopathy, insulin-binding paraprotein can cause disabling hypoglycaemia. We report a 67-year-old man re-evaluated for hyperinsulinaemic hypoglycaemia that persisted despite distal pancreatectomy. He had no medical history of diabetes mellitus or autoimmune disease but was being monitored for an IgG kappa monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance. On glucose tolerance testing, hyperglycaemia occurred at 60 min (glucose 216 mg/dL) and hypoglycaemia at 300 min (52 mg/dL) concurrent with an apparent plasma insulin concentration of 52 850 pmol/L on immunoassay. Laboratory investigation revealed an IgG2 kappa with very high binding capacity but low affinity (Kd 1.43 × 10−6 mol/L) for insulin. The monoclonal gammopathy was restaged as smouldering myeloma not warranting plasma cell–directed therapy from a haematological standpoint. Plasma exchange reduced paraprotein levels and improved fasting capillary glucose concentrations. Lenalidomide was used to treat disabling hypoglycaemia, successfully depleting paraprotein and leading to resolution of symptoms.
Activities of daily living in heart failure patients and healthy subjects: when the cardiopulmonary assessment goes beyond traditional exercise test protocols
Authors: Mapelli Massimo , Salvioni Elisabetta , Mattavelli Irene , Gugliandolo Paola , Bonomi Alice , Palermo Pietro , Rossi Maddalena , Stolfo Davide , Gustafsson Finn , Piepoli Massimo , Agostoni Piergiuseppe
Published: October 2023

Heart failure (HF) patients traditionally report dyspnoea as their main symptom. Although the cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) and 6 min walking test are the standardized tools in assessing functional capacity, neither cycle ergometers nor treadmill maximal efforts do fully represent the actual HF patients’ everyday activities [activities of daily living (ADLs)] (i.e. climbing the stairs). New-generation portable metabolimeters allow the clinician to measure task-related oxygen intake (VO2) in different scenarios and exercise protocols. In the last years, we have made considerable progress in understanding the ventilatory and metabolic behaviours of HF patients and healthy subjects during tasks aimed to reproduce ADLs. In this paper, we describe the most recent findings in the field, with special attention to the relationship between the metabolic variables obtained during ADLs and CPET parameters (i.e. peak VO2), demonstrating, for example, how exercises traditionally thought to be undemanding, such as a walk, instead represent supramaximal efforts, particularly for subjects with advanced HF and/or artificial heart (left ventricular assist devices) wearers.
Fluid balance in heart failure
Authors: Cosentino Nicola , Marenzi Giancarlo , Muratori Manuela , Magrì Damiano , Cattadori Gaia , Agostoni Piergiuseppe
Published: October 2023

Fluid retention is a major determinant of symptoms in patients with heart failure (HF), and it is closely associated with prognosis. Hence, congestion represents a critical therapeutic target in this clinical setting. The first therapeutic strategy in HF patients with fluid overload is optimization of diuretic intervention to maximize water and sodium excretion. When diuretic therapy fails to relieve congestion, renal replacement therapy represents the only alternative option for fluid removal, as well as a way to restore diuretic responsiveness. On this background, the pathophysiology of fluid balance in HF is complex, with heart, kidney, and lung being deeply involved in volume regulation and management. Therefore, the interplay between these organs should be appreciated and considered when fluid overload in HF patients is targeted.
Determinants of exercise performance in heart failure patients with extremely reduced cardiac output and left ventricular assist device
Authors: Apostolo Anna , Vignati Carlo , Cittar Marco , Baracchini Nikita , Mushtaq Saima , Cattadori Gaia , Sciomer Susanna , Trombara Filippo , Piepoli Massimo , Agostoni Piergiuseppe
Published: October 2023

The evaluation of exercise capacity and cardiac output (QC) is fundamental in the management of patients with advanced heart failure (AdHF). QC and peak oxygen uptake (VO2) have a pivotal role in the prognostic stratification and in the definition of therapeutic interventions, including medical therapies and devices, but also specific treatments such as heart transplantation and left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation. Due to the intertwined relationship between exercise capacity and daily activities, exercise intolerance dramatically has impact on the quality of life of patients. It is a multifactorial process that includes alterations in central and peripheral haemodynamic regulation, anaemia and iron deficiency, pulmonary congestion, pulmonary hypertension, and peripheral O2 extraction. This paper aims to review the pathophysiological background of exercise limitations in HF patients and to examine the complex physiology of exercise in LVAD recipients, analysing the interactions between the cardiopulmonary system, the musculoskeletal system, the autonomic nervous system, and the pump. We performed a literature review to highlight the current knowledge on this topic and possible interventions that can be implemented to increase exercise capacity in AdHF patients—including administration of levosimendan, rehabilitation, and the intriguing field of LVAD speed changes. The present paper confirms the role of CPET in the follow-up of this peculiar population and the impact of exercise capacity on the quality of life of AdHF patients.
Comparative cost-effectiveness of contemporary treatment strategies for stage IIA seminoma
Authors: Joyce Daniel D , Sharma Vidit , Wymer Kevin M , Moriarty James P , Borah Bijan J , Walia Arman , Costello Brian A , Pagliaro Lance C , Daneshmand Siamak , Leibovich Bradley C , Boorjian Stephen A
Published: October 2023

Background

The Surgery in Early Metastatic Seminoma (SEMS) trial examined retroperitoneal lymph node dissection as first-line treatment for patients with isolated 1-3 cm retroperitoneal lymphadenopathy. To date, the standard of care for these patients has been either chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Herein, we evaluated the relative cost-effectiveness of these management strategies.

Methods

A microsimulation model assessed the cost-effectiveness of retroperitoneal lymph node dissection, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy for stage IIA seminoma. Sensitivity analyses were performed to evaluate model robustness. Retroperitoneal lymph node dissection recurrence probabilities were obtained from the SEMS trial. All other probability and utility values were obtained from published literature. Primary outcomes included costs from a commercial insurer’s perspective, effectiveness (quality adjusted life-years [QALYs]), and incremental cost-effectiveness ratios using a willingness-to-pay threshold of $100 000/QALY.

Results

At a lifetime horizon, the mean costs per patient for retroperitoneal lymph node dissection, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy were $58 469, $98 783, and $104 096, and the mean QALYs were 40.61, 40.70, and 39.15, respectively. Retroperitoneal lymph node dissection was found to be the most cost-effective approach because of high costs and accrued disutility of chronic toxicities associated with radiotherapy (cost-effectiveness ratios = $433 845/QALY) and chemotherapy (dominated). On 1-way sensitivity analyses, retroperitoneal lymph node dissection was no longer cost-effective if the probabilities of infertility and cardiovascular toxicity after radiotherapy were less than 13% and 16%, respectively, or if the 2-year probability of progression after retroperitoneal lymph node dissection was more than 26%.

Conclusions

Retroperitoneal lymph node dissection was the most cost-effective treatment approach for stage IIA seminoma. These findings support clinical guideline consideration of including retroperitoneal lymph node dissection as a treatment option for well-selected patients with stage IIA seminoma.
Categorising the world into local climate zones: towards quantifying labelling uncertainty for machine learning models
Authors: Hechinger Katharina , Zhu Xiao Xiang , Kauermann Göran
Published: October 2023

Image classification is often prone to labelling uncertainty. To generate suitable training data, images are labelled according to evaluations of human experts. This can result in ambiguities, which will affect subsequent models. In this work, we aim to model the labelling uncertainty in the context of remote sensing and the classification of satellite images. We construct a multinomial mixture model given the evaluations of multiple experts. This is based on the assumption that there is no ambiguity of the image class, but apparently in the experts’ opinion about it. The model parameters can be estimated by a stochastic expectation maximisation algorithm. Analysing the estimates gives insights into sources of label uncertainty. Here, we focus on the general class ambiguity, the heterogeneity of experts, and the origin city of the images. The results are relevant for all machine learning applications where image classification is pursued and labelling is subject to humans.
Environmental context of phenotypic plasticity in flowering time in sorghum and rice
Authors: Guo Tingting , Wei Jialu , Li Xianran , Yu Jianming
Published: October 2023

Phenotypic plasticity is an important topic in biology and evolution. However, how to generate broadly applicable insights from individual studies remains a challenge. Here, with flowering time observed from a large geographical region for sorghum and rice genetic populations, we examine the consistency of parameter estimation for reaction norms of genotypes across different subsets of environments and searched for potential strategies to inform the study design. Both sample size and environmental mean range of the subset affected the consistency. The subset with either a large range of environmental mean or a large sample size resulted in genetic parameters consistent with the overall pattern. Furthermore, high accuracy through genomic prediction was obtained for reaction norm parameters of untested genotypes using models built from tested genotypes under the subsets of environments with either a large range or a large sample size. With 1428 and 1674 simulated settings, our analyses suggested that the distribution of environmental index values of a site should be considered in designing experiments. Overall, we showed that environmental context was critical, and considerations should be given to better cover the intended range of the environmental variable. Our findings have implications for the genetic architecture of complex traits, plant–environment interaction, and climate adaptation.
Dust from evolved stars: a pilot analysis of the AGB to PN transition
Authors: Dell’Agli F , Tosi S , Kamath D , Stanghellini L , Bianchi S , Ventura P , Marini E , García-Hernández D A
Published: October 2023

We present a novel approach to address dust production by low- and intermediate-mass stars. We study the asymptotic giant branch (AGB) phase, during which the formation of dust takes place, from the perspective of post-AGB and planetary nebula (PN) evolutionary stage. Using results from stellar evolution and dust formation modelling, we interpret the spectral energy distribution of carbon-dust-rich sources currently evolving through different evolutionary phases, believed to descend from progenitors of similar mass and chemical composition. Comparing the results of different stages along the AGB to PNe transition, we can provide distinct insights on the amount of dust and gas released during the very late AGB phases. While the post-AGB traces the history of dust production back to the tip of the AGB phase, investigating the PNe is important to reconstruct the mass-loss process experienced after the last thermal pulse. The dust surrounding the post-AGB was formed soon after the tip of the AGB. The PNe dust-to-gas ratio is ∼10−3, 2.5 times smaller than what expected for the same initial mass star during the last AGB interpulse, possibly suggesting that dust might be destroyed during the PN phase. Measuring the amount of dust present in the nebula can constrain the capacity of the dust to survive the central star heating.
Investigation on the orbital period variations of NN Ser: implications for the hypothetical planets, the Applegate mechanism, and the orbital stability
Authors: Özdönmez Aykut , Er Huseyin , Nasiroglu Ilham
Published: October 2023

We present 36 new mid-eclipse times obtained between 2017 and 2023 using the T100 telescope in Turkey, extending the time span of the O − C diagram to 25 yr. Once again, these new observations show significant deviations from previous published models that were able to explain the observed variations of the binary period. We investigate two plausible explanations for this variability: the light travel time (LTT) effect due to the presence of one or two invisible low-mass (planetary) companion(s) in distant circumbinary orbits; other mechanisms, like e.g. the Applegate mechanism, associated with the magnetic cycles of the M-dwarf component of the WD + dM binary. Through Markov Chain Monte Carlo analyses, we demonstrate that the observed O − C variability can be explained by the presence of a planet with a minimum mass of ∼9.5MJ. This circumbinary planet orbits around the binary system with a period of about 19.5 yr, maintaining a stable orbit for a timeline of 10 Myr. By adding a weak LTT signal from a secondary hypothetical planet we achieve statistically better results. However, the orbits of the bodies in a two-planet system remain stable only for a small range of the parameter space. The energy required to power the Applegate and other Applegate-like mechanisms is too high to explain the period variations observed. Thus, on the one hand there is substantial evidence supporting the existence of a planet in the NN Ser system, but on the other hand there are also compelling indications that cast doubt on the existence of a second hypothetical planet.
Azimuthal anisotropy of magnetic fields in the circumgalactic medium driven by galactic feedback processes
Authors: Ramesh Rahul , Nelson Dylan , Heesen Volker , Brüggen Marcus
Published: October 2023

We use the TNG50 cosmological magnetohydrodynamical simulation of the IllustrisTNG project to show that magnetic fields in the circumgalactic medium (CGM) have significant angular structure. This azimuthal anisotropy at fixed distance is driven by galactic feedback processes that launch strong outflows into the halo, preferentially along the minor axes of galaxies. These feedback-driven outflows entrain strong magnetic fields from the interstellar medium, dragging fields originally amplified by small-scale dynamos into the CGM. At the virial radius, z = 0 galaxies with M⋆ ∼ $10^{10}\, \rm {M_\odot }$ show the strongest anisotropy (∼0.35 dex). This signal weakens with decreasing impact parameter, and is also present but weaker for lower mass as well as higher mass galaxies. Creating mock Faraday rotation measure (RM) sightlines through the simulated volume, we find that the angular RM trend is qualitatively consistent with recent observational measurements. We show that rich structure is present in the circumgalactic magnetic fields of galaxies. However, TNG50 predicts small RM amplitudes in the CGM that make detection difficult as a result of other contributions along the line of sight.
The FLAMINGO project: revisiting the S8 tension and the role of baryonic physics
Authors: McCarthy Ian G , Salcido Jaime , Schaye Joop , Kwan Juliana , Elbers Willem , Kugel Roi , Schaller Matthieu , Helly John C , Braspenning Joey , Frenk Carlos S , van Daalen Marcel P , Vandenbroucke Bert , Conley Jonah T , Font Andreea S , Upadhye Amol
Published: October 2023

A number of recent studies have found evidence for a tension between observations of large-scale structure (LSS) and the predictions of the standard model of cosmology with the cosmological parameters fit to the cosmic microwave background (CMB). The origin of this ‘S8 tension’ remains unclear, but possibilities include new physics beyond the standard model, unaccounted for systematic errors in the observational measurements and/or uncertainties in the role that baryons play. Here, we carefully examine the latter possibility using the new FLAMINGO suite of large-volume cosmological hydrodynamical simulations. We project the simulations onto observable harmonic space and compare with observational measurements of the power and cross-power spectra of cosmic shear, CMB lensing, and the thermal Sunyaev-Zel’dovich (tSZ) effect. We explore the dependence of the predictions on box size and resolution and cosmological parameters, including the neutrino mass, and the efficiency and nature of baryonic ‘feedback’. Despite the wide range of astrophysical behaviours simulated, we find that baryonic effects are not sufficiently large to remove the S8 tension. Consistent with recent studies, we find the CMB lensing power spectrum is in excellent agreement with the standard model, while the cosmic shear power spectrum, tSZ effect power spectrum, and the cross-spectra between shear, CMB lensing, and the tSZ effect are all in varying degrees of tension with the CMB-specified standard model. These results suggest that some mechanism is required to slow the growth of fluctuations at late times and/or on non-linear scales, but that it is unlikely that baryon physics is driving this modification.
Cold dust and low [O iii]/[C ii] ratios: an evolved star-forming population at redshift 7
Authors: Algera Hiddo S B , Inami Hanae , Sommovigo Laura , Fudamoto Yoshinobu , Schneider Raffaella , Graziani Luca , Dayal Pratika , Bouwens Rychard , Aravena Manuel , da Cunha Elisabete , Ferrara Andrea , Hygate Alexander P S , van Leeuwen Ivana , De Looze Ilse , Palla Marco , Pallottini Andrea , Smit Renske , Stefanon Mauro , Topping Michael , van der Werf Paul P
Published: October 2023

We present new ALMA Band 8 (rest-frame $90 \ \mu$m) continuum observations of three massive ($M_\star \approx 10^{10}\ \mathrm{ M}_\odot$) galaxies at z ≈ 7 previously detected in [C ii]$158 \ \mu$m and underlying dust continuum emission in the Reionization Era Bright Emission Line Survey (REBELS). We detect dust emission from two of our targets in Band 8 (REBELS-25 and REBELS-38), while REBELS-12 remains undetected. Through optically thin modified blackbody fitting, we determine dust temperatures of $T_\mathrm{dust}\approx 30-35\,$ K in both of the dual-band detected targets, indicating they are colder than most known galaxies at z ∼ 7. Moreover, their inferred dust masses are large ($M_\mathrm{dust}\approx 10^{8}\ \mathrm{ M}_\odot$), albeit still consistent with models of high-redshift dust production. We furthermore target and detect [O iii]$88 \ \mu$m emission in both REBELS-12 and REBELS-25, and find $L_\mathrm{[O\, III]}/L_\mathrm{[C\, II]}\approx 1-1.5$ – low compared to the $L_\mathrm{[O\, \rm{\small III}]}/L_\mathrm{[C\, \rm{\small II}]}\gtrsim 2-10$ observed in the known z ≳ 6 population thus far. We argue the lower line ratios are due to a comparatively weaker ionizing radiation field resulting from the less starbursty nature of our targets, although the possibility of REBELS-12 being a merger of an [O iii]-bright and [O iii]-faint component prevents the unambiguous interpretation of its [O iii]/[C ii] ratio. Nevertheless, a low burstiness forms a natural explanation for the cold dust temperatures and low $\mathrm{[O\, \rm{\small III}]}\lambda \lambda 4959,5007+\mathrm{H} \, \beta$ equivalent widths of REBELS-25 and REBELS-38. Overall, these observations provide evidence for the existence of a massive, dust-rich galaxy population at z ≈ 7 which has previously experienced vigorous star formation, but is currently forming stars in a steady, as opposed to bursty, manner.
The importance of small joint involvement in oligoarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis
Authors: Kaplan Melike Mehveş , Ekici Tekin Zahide , Güngörer Vildan , Çelikel Elif , Kurt Tuba , Polat Merve Cansu , Sezer Müge , Tekgöz Nilüfer , Karagöl Cüneyt , Coşkun Serkan , Öner Nimet , Çelikel Acar Banu
Published: October 2023

Objectives

Our study aimed to evaluate the relationship of small joint involvement with demographic, clinical, and laboratory findings and to determine its possible effects on prognosis.

Methods

This retrospective observational study was conducted in patients diagnosed with oligoarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (oJIA) in the paediatric rheumatology department of Ankara City Hospital between April 2009 and September 2022. The relationship between small joint involvement and demographic, clinical, and laboratory findings and prognosis was investigated by statistical methods with the data recorded from the medical records of oJIA patients.

Results

Of the 198 patients diagnosed with oJIA, small joint involvement was observed in a total of 20 (10%) patients, 11 (5.5%) at the time of diagnosis, and 9 (4.5%) during the follow-up period. The frequency of small joint involvement in extended oJIA was significantly higher than in persistent oJIA (P = .001). Patients with small joint involvement had significantly higher erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein values at admission (P = .047, P = .038) and Juvenile Arthritis Disease Activity Score at 3, 6, and 12 months (P = .001, P = .001, P = .018). The need for conventional disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs and biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs was significantly higher in patients with small joint involvement (P = .001, P = .001).

Conclusions

oJIA patients with small joint involvement may have higher acute phase reactants at diagnosis, a more extended course and active disease in follow-up, and the need for treatment escalation.
MAMI: a comprehensive database of mother–infant microbiome and probiotic resources
Authors: Zhou Tian , Xiao Liwen , Zuo Zhenqiang , Zhao Fangqing
Published: October 2023

Extensive evidence has demonstrated that the human microbiome and probiotics confer great impacts on human health, particularly during critical developmental stages such as pregnancy and infancy when microbial communities undergo remarkable changes and maturation. However, a major challenge in understanding the microbial community structure and interactions between mothers and infants lies in the current lack of comprehensive microbiome databases specifically focused on maternal and infant health. To address this gap, we have developed an extensive database called MAMI (Microbiome Atlas of Mothers and Infants) that archives data on the maternal and neonatal microbiome, as well as abundant resources on edible probiotic strains. By leveraging this resource, we can gain profound insights into the dynamics of microbial communities, contributing to lifelong wellness for both mothers and infants through precise modulation of the developing microbiota. The functionalities incorporated into MAMI provide a unique perspective on the study of the mother–infant microbiome, which not only advance microbiome-based scientific research but also enhance clinical practice. MAMI is publicly available at https://bioinfo.biols.ac.cn/mami/.
H3K27M mutant glioma: Disease definition and biological underpinnings
Authors: Saratsis Amanda M , Knowles Truman , Petrovic Antonela , Nazarian Javad
Published: October 2023

High-grade glioma (HGG) is the most common cause of cancer death in children and the most common primary central nervous system tumor in adults. While pediatric HGG was once thought to be biologically similar to the adult form of disease, research has shown these malignancies to be significantly molecularly distinct, necessitating distinct approaches to their clinical management. However, emerging data have shown shared molecular events in pediatric and adult HGG including the histone H3K27M mutation. This somatic missense mutation occurs in genes encoding one of two isoforms of the Histone H3 protein, H3F3A (H3.3), or HIST1H3B (H3.1), and is detected in up to 80% of pediatric diffuse midline gliomas and in up to 60% of adult diffuse gliomas. Importantly, the H3K27M mutation is associated with poorer overall survival and response to therapy compared to patients with H3 wild-type tumors. Here, we review the clinical features and biological underpinnings of pediatric and adult H3K27M mutant glioma, offering a groundwork for understanding current research and clinical approaches for the care of patients suffering with this challenging disease.
PLANT UNCOUPLING MITOCHONDRIAL PROTEIN 2 localizes to the Golgi
Authors: Fuchs Philippe , Feixes-Prats Elisenda , Arruda Paulo , Feitosa-Araújo Elias , Fernie Alisdair R , Grefen Christopher , Lichtenauer Sophie , Linka Nicole , de Godoy Maia Ivan , Meyer Andreas J , Schilasky Sören , Sweetlove Lee J , Wege Stefanie , Weber Andreas P M , Millar A Harvey , Keech Olivier , Florez-Sarasa Igor , Barreto Pedro , Schwarzländer Markus
Published: October 2023

In contrast to its close homolog PLANT UNCOUPLING MITOCHONDRIAL PROTEIN 1 (UCP1), which is an abundant carrier protein in the mitochondria, UCP2 localizes to the Golgi.
Cancer of colon, rectum and anus: the rising burden of disease worldwide from 1990 to 2019
Authors: Ilic Milena , Ilic Irena
Published: October 2023

Background

Previous studies suggest that trends of cancer of colon, rectum and anus (CRA) incidence and mortality have been decreasing in recent decades. However, the trends are not uniform across age groups. This study aimed to assess the trends of the cancer of CRA burden worldwide.

Methods

A descriptive study was carried out with a joinpoint regression analysis using the database of the Global Burden of Disease study.

Results

About 2.2 million new cases of cancer of CRA were diagnosed in the world in 2019, whereby cancer of CRA caused ~1.1 million deaths. Globally, the incidence trend in both sexes together was increasing in 1990–2019, while the mortality trend was decreasing. The highest rise both in incidence and mortality was observed in the East Asia region (by 3.6% per year and by 1.4% per year, respectively) and the Andean Latin America region (by 2.7% per year and by 1.2% per year, respectively). However, of particular concern is the significant increase in the incidence (by 1.7% per year) and mortality (by 0.5% per year) from cancer of CRA in people aged 15–49.

Conclusions

Unfavorable trends in cancer of CRA in the young require more attention in management plans.
Prevalence of anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis in the south of France, using the capture-recapture method
Authors: Rubenstein Emma , Henneton Pierrick , Rivière Sophie , Casanova Marie-Laure , Broner Jonathan , Arnaud Erik , Oziol Eric , Le Quintrec Moglie , Moranne Olivier , Jorgensen Christian , Combe Bernard , Bourdin Arnaud , Fontaine Christophe , Schiffmann Aurélie , Fraison Jean-Baptiste , Hallé Olivier , Fraisse Thibaut , Veysseyre Frederic , Taieb Guillaume , Aerts Cécile , Crampette Louis , Alovisetti Caroline , Guis Laurence , Mehlal Souad , Papinaud Laurence , Le Quellec Alain , Guilpain Philippe , Mahr Alfred
Published: October 2023

Objectives

This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV). That is, granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA), microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) and eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA), in Southern France in 2018, and evaluate differences among Europeans and non-Europeans.

Methods

This population-based, cross-sectional study used four sources (hospitals, community-based physicians, laboratories, National Health Insurance) to identify adults ≥15 years diagnosed with GPA, MPA or EGPA, living in Hérault and Gard in 2018. Cases were defined using the ACR/EULAR classification criteria, and if necessary, the European Medicines Agency algorithm. Prevalence estimates were standardised to the world population and capture-recapture analysis was used to assess the comprehensiveness of the estimation. The influence of geographical origin was evaluated.

Results

A total of 202 patients were selected, with 86 cases of GPA (42.6%), 85 cases of MPA (42.1%) and 31 cases of EGPA (15.3%). The standardised prevalence estimates per million inhabitants for 2018 were: 103 (95%CI 84–125) for AAV, 48 (95%CI 35–64) for GPA, 39 (95%CI 28–53) for MPA and 16 (95%CI 9–26) for EGPA, 36 (95%CI 25–50) for anti-PR3 positive AAV, 46 (95%CI 34–61) for anti-MPO positive AAV, and 16 (95%CI 9–26) for ANCA-negative AAV. The global estimation of comprehensiveness by capture-recapture analysis was 80.5%. The number of AAV cases was higher for non-European residents (P = 0.001), particularly for MPA (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

We provide a new estimate of AAV prevalence in France and show a higher prevalence of MPA in non-European patients.
Modified human respiratory tract model to describe the retention of plutonium in scar tissues
Authors: Poudel Deepesh , Avtandilashvili Maia , Klumpp John A , Bertelli Luiz , Tolmachev Sergei Y
Published: October 2023

The Human Respiratory Tract Model described in Publication 130 of the International Commission on Radiological Protection provides some mechanisms to account for retention of material that can be subject to little to no mechanical transport or absorption into the blood. One of these mechanisms is ‘binding’, which refers to a process by which a fraction (‘bound fraction’) of the dissolved material chemically binds to the tissue of the airway wall. The value of the bound fraction can have a significant impact on the radiation doses imparted to different parts of the respiratory tract. To properly evaluate—and quantify—bound fraction for an element, one would need information on long-term retention of the element in individual compartments of the respiratory tract. Such data on regional retention of plutonium in the respiratory tract of four workers—who had inhaled materials with solubility ranging from soluble nitrate to very insoluble high-fired oxides—were obtained at the United States Transuranium and Uranium Registries. An assumption of bound fraction alone was found to be inconsistent with this dataset and also with a review of the literature. Several studies show evidence of retention of a large amount of Pu activity in the scar tissues of humans and experimental animals, and accordingly, a model structure with scar-tissue compartments was proposed. The transfer rates to these compartments were determined using Markov Chain Monte Carlo analysis of the bioassay and post-mortem data, considering the uncertainties associated with deposition, dissolution and particle clearance parameters. The models predicted that a significant amount—between 20 and 100% for the cases analyzed—of plutonium retained in the respiratory tract was sequestered in the scar tissues. Unlike chemically-bound Pu that irradiates sensitive epithelial cells, Pu in scar tissues may not be dosimetrically significant because the scar tissues absorb most, if not all, of the energy from alpha emissions.
The new QST bioassay laboratory in Chiba, Japan
Authors: Yang Guosheng , Tamakuma Yuki , Naito Masayuki , Tani Kotaro , Kim Eunjoo , Kowatari Munehiko , Kurihara Osamu
Published: October 2023

Japan’s National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology (QST) was designated as the core radiation emergency medical support center by the country’s Nuclear Regulation Authority (NRA) in 2019. One of the main missions of the QST is to maintain and improve its dose assessment capability for radiation-exposed individuals. Toward the goal of effectively fulfilling this mission, a new facility—the Dose Assessment Building for Advanced Radiation Emergency Medicine—was constructed at the Chiba base of the QST in 2020. An integrated bioassay laboratory was installed in this facility for assessing subjects’ internal doses, along with a new integrated in vivo counter. The bioassay capability of the new laboratory is currently expected to screen 5–10 persons simultaneously assuming internal contamination with actinides such as Pu, Am/Cm and U, although this is dependent on the specific contamination circumstances.