bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Right ventricle dysfunction in patients with takotsubo syndrome
Authors: Budnik M , Piatkowski R , Ochijewicz D , Zaleska M , Glowczynska R , Grabowski M , Opolski G
Published: February 2022

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

OnBehalf

Pol-tako

Background 

Takotsubo syndrome  (TTS) is a clinical condition that mimics acute myocardial infarction and is characterised by acute left ventricle dysfunction. However, right ventricle (RV) involvement can also occur. 

Purpose  

The aim of our study was to compare clinical characteristic, in-hospital complications and in-hospital mortality in patients with TTS with and without RV dysfunction. 

Methods  

209 consecutive patients with TTS were included in the study. Among them, 13,9% (29 patients) had RV dysfunction according to echocardiography evaluation. Clinical symptoms at admission to hospital was similar in both groups. There weren’t differences in time from onset of symptoms to the hospital admission in both groups. 

Results  

Patients with RV dysfunction was older (75,6 vs 69.4y). Left ventricle ejection fraction (LVEF) at 1st and 3rd day of hospitalisation was lower in patients with TTS with RV involvement in comparison to patients without RV dysfunction (37.9 vs 41.9%, 42,1 vs 47.3% and 46.1 vs 50.9%, respectively). However, at 5th day EF LV was similar in both groups. Tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) was lower in patients with RV dysfunction at 1st and 3rd day (17 vs 21mm and 19 vs 21.6 mm, respectively). Pulmonary oedema and cardiogenic shock occurred less often in patients with RV involvement (6.9 vs 17.7% and 0 vs 4.4%). In hospital mortality was similar in both groups (3.4 and 2.2%).  Moreover, there was not difference in the length of hospitalisation (11.9 vs 10.1 days). 

Conclusions 

Right ventricle in patients with TTS can occur in about 14% patients. In addition to impaired RV function also LVEF is more depressed in the first days. However, in hospital mortality is similar.
MR -specific characteristics of left ventricular noncompaction and dilated cardiomyopathy
Authors: Gregor Z , Kiss AR , Grebur K , Szabo LE , Merkely B , Vago H , Szucs A
Published: February 2022

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): Thematic Excellence Programme (Tématerületi Kiválósági Program, 2020-4.1.1.-TKP2020) of the Ministry for Innovation and Technology in Hungary within the framework of the Therapeutic Development and Bioimaging Programs of Semmelweis University Development of Scientific Workshops of Medical, Health Sciences and Pharmaceutical Edication (Project identification number: EFOP- 3.6.3-VEKOP-16- 2017-00009) Project no. NVKP_16-1–2016-0017 (’National Heart Program’) has been implemented with the support provided from the National Research, Development and Innovation Fund of Hungary, financed under the NVKP_16 funding scheme. The research was supported by the Ministry of Innovation and Technology NRDI Office within the framework of the Artificial Intelligence National Laboratory Program.

The differentiation of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and left ventricular noncompaction

(LVNC) is a recurring issue during cardiac imaging processes; thus, we aimed to compare the

left ventricular (LV) cardiac MRI (CMR) characteristics of DCM and LVNC patients.

Thirty-one nonischemic DCM patients, 42 LVNC patients with reduced EF and 42 healthy

controls were included in this retrospective study. The LV volumetric, functional and

myocardial mass parameters were measured with a threshold-based technique, while global

and segmental strain values and rotational patterns were analyzed with feature-tracking

strain analysis.

Of the LV volumetric and myocardial mass parameters, only the trabeculated and papillary

muscle mass (TPMi) values differed significantly between the patient groups and were higher

in the LVNC group compared to DCM (DCM vs LVNC: 43.2 ± 8.9 vs 51.6 ± 13.6 g/m2, p < 0.002).

The global longitudinal and circumferential strains were similar between the patient groups

and significantly worse than those of the controls. In comparing the segmental strain values

between the patient groups, only the circumferential apical strain was significantly lower in

the LVNC group (DCM vs LVNC: -30.5 ± 13.5 vs -24.5 ± 12.0%, p < 0.05). There was no difference

in the rotational pattern between the patient groups, and both the healthy and patient

populations showed heterogeneous rotational patterns.

Despite the similarities of DCM and LVNC in volumetric, global strain parameters, and

rotational patterns, we found some morphological and functional differences between the

patient groups. These minor alterations might be due to the morphological characteristics of

LVNC with a trabeculated apical region.
Predictors and prognostic value of left ventricle branch block in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Cunha NPD , Rigueira J , Placido R , Rodrigues T , Campos P , Pinto FJ , Almeida AG
Published: February 2022

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Introduction

 Conduction abnormalities as left bundle branch block (LBBB) are common in myocardial disease and contribute to LV dyssynchrony and adverse LV remodeling. The relevance of LBBB in the context of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is unclear. The aim of this study is to find factors that are associated to LBBB in HCM and its impact in prognosis.  

Methods

Retrospective single-center study of 36 consecutive patients (pts) with HCM defined by wall thickness≥15 mm in≥1 myocardial segments in CMR; pts with history of uncontrolled hypertension (HTN) and significant valvular disease were excluded. 

Demographic, clinical, ECG and CMR data (including ventricular volumes, late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) and ventricular strain using feature tracking analysis (Circle CVi 42) were analyzed. For statistical analysis X2 test, Mann-Whitney and logistic regression model were used.  

Results

 Patient’s median age was 63 years (IQR: 49,5-74,8), 64% men. 69% had controlled hypertension, 46% dyslipidemia and 23% diabetes; family history of sudden death and HCM occurred in 16% and 46% respectively. 42% had genetic study and mutations were identified in 25% (TNNT2: 8%; MYBPC3: 6%). 

During a mean follow-up (FUP) of 17 ± 11 months, 24% had HF, 3% thromboembolic events, 26% new onset atrial fibrillation, 20% ventricular tachycardia (VT), 29% received an ICD and 3% died.

On ECG evaluation, 33% had intraventricular disturbance conduction with 12% having LBBB, 49% had LVH criteria.  

On CMR, 81% had septal hypertrophy, 11% apical, 3% anterior-wall LVH and 6% lateral-wall hypertrophy. LVOTO was present in 33%. 69% of the patients had LGE (midwall: 61%, subendocardial: 11%, subepicardial: 3%; at segments with LVH: 47%, RV/LV insertion points: 25%, other:19.4%); the median LGE was 13.6g (IQR 6.7-22.4) corresponding to 7.4% of the LV mass (IQR 3.7-10.9). The median of the maximal wall thickness was 19mm (IQR 16.9-20.9), median LVEF was 70% (IQR 35-87); median LV indexed mass of 105 g/m2 (IQR 54.9-160.7). The median longitudinal strain in 4 and 2 chambers was -9.1 (IQR 15.6-4.6) and -9.1mm (IQR -16-2.6), respectively and the median radial strain in 4 and 2 chambers was 15.6 (IQR 6.5-28.2) and 13.7 (3.5-30.1), respectively. 

Patients with LBBB had more VT and ICD implantation in follow-up (p = 0.038). 

The presence of LGE in RV/LV insertion points (p = 0.019) and in the area of higher LVH (p = 0.033) were the only variables associated with LBBB. The area of LGE involving the RV/LV insertion points was an independent predictor of LBBB (p = 0.02, OR 36.0, IC:1.710-757.79). 

Conclusion

  In our sample, fibrosis in the RV/LV insertion points in CMR was an independent predictor of LBBB, which was associated with ventricular arrhythmias in follow-up. Further prospective studies with larger number of patients are needed to confirm our findings.
Multimodality imaging for the assessment of left ventricular dynsfunction in cardio-oncology
Authors: Saraiva M , Moura AR , Castilho B , Veiga R , Domingues K , Pitta ML , Martins V
Published: February 2022

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Introduction

Left ventricular systolic dysfunction (LVD) is a key concern in the context of cardio-oncology (CO). Usually, referral for suspected Cancer therapy-related cardiac dysfunction (CTRCD) is the main challenge, but heart failure with other more common causes, such as ischemic cardiomyopathy can also decompensate during cancer treatment or be diagnosed incidentally during cardiotoxicity echocardiographic (echo) surveillance. Multimodality imaging is essential in these patients in order to better establish aetiology and assure the most appropriate clinical management.

Purpose

evaluate clinical impact of multimodality imaging in the clinical management of CO patients.

Methods

retrospective study of a population followed in CO consultation. Statistical analysis of demographic, clinical, transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) and cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) data was made.

Results

we included 115 pts, mean age 66.3 ± 10.2 years, 67,8% female, with mean follow-up of 16.1 ± 12.8 months. About half (56.5%) had breast cancer, followed by gastrointestinal tract (16.5%) and haematological (8,7%) malignancies, with a significant proportion (32,2%) with advanced disease. Prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors was high (hypertension in 74.8%, dyslipidaemia in 47%, type 2 diabetes mellitus in 17.4%), but also coronary artery disease (18,3%) and atrial fibrillation (18.3%). All of them were treated with different types of chemotherapy and 53,9% of pts with radiotherapy.  At baseline, 13% of pts had a left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) under 50% (LVD) assessed by TTE, which increased to 26,9% (n = 31) after oncological treatment initiation. Of these (n = 31), an ischemic aetiology was found in 32,3% and non-ischemic in 54,8%, which was significantly more frequent in patients with CTRCD (OR 2,7, p = 0,001). CMR was performed in 45,2%, mostly in CTRCD cases (p = 0,012, OR 8,4), which, apart from LVD, did not show any tissue changes in most patients (p = 0,026, OR 35). Only one patient with CTRCD (under treatment with trastuzumab and anthracyclines) had subepicardial late gadolinium enhancement, with wall motion abnormalities, suggesting a myocarditis-like mechanism for cardiotoxicity.

Conclusion

LVD has a major impact in patients" prognosis, particularly in CO context, where effective oncological treatments can be compromised due heart failure decompensation. Therefore, a thorough clinical evaluation should encompass etiological study in order to provide the most appropriate treatment strategies. Moreover, CTRCD can develop through different physiopathological mechanisms. Thus, multimodality imaging, particularly including CMR evaluation, can have a major role ensuring a good clinical outcome for these patients.
Cardiac pseudoaneurysm as a complication of native mitral valve infective endocarditis
Authors: Khan Muhammad Zubair , Shah Rakesh , Franklin Sona , Kutalek Steven , Haridas Anand
Published: February 2022

Background

The delayed development of a mitral valve annulus pseudoaneurysm is a rare and late complication of a native mitral abscess cavity.

Case summary

Currently, there are no documented cases of a pseudoaneurysm developing from an abscess cavity of the posterior annulus of the native mitral valve. We report a case of a patient who presented with worsening progressive shortness of breath that was found to be secondary to a pseudoaneurysm. This was detected by 2D echocardiogram and cardiac computed tomography angiography.

Discussion

In our case, the patient developed a late complication of a ventricular pseudoaneurysm originating from the mitral annular area of the abscess cavity. Per the surgical literature, one method to avoid the aforementioned complication is via cavity repair with a bovine patch.
A case report of a 37-year-old woman with pulmonary arterial hypertension first presented during her 3rd pregnancy and favourable long-term vasoreactive response
Authors: Westphal Julian Georg , Oehler Matthias , Schulze Paul Christian , Kretzschmar Daniel
Published: February 2022

Background

Pulmonary arterial hypertension is a rare disease associated with high rates of mortality and can significantly complicate pregnancy posing health risks for the mother and child alike.

Case summary

We present the case of a 37-year-old female patient with World Health Organisation functional Class IV symptoms during the 34th week of her 3rd pregnancy. Initial echocardiography showed a significantly elevated estimated systolic pulmonary artery pressure of 86 mmHg + central vein pressure as well as signs of chronic pulmonary hypertension. After a successful emergent caesarean section, pulmonary hypertension was confirmed via right heart catheterization. After exclusion of secondary aetiologies of pulmonary hypertension, the diagnosis of Class 1 pulmonary artery hypertension was made. We initially treated the patient with the phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor sildenafil (20 mg oral bid trice daily) and later extended the medication with the dual endothelin receptor antagonist Macicentan (10 mg daily). Since the patient remained symptomatic vasodilator testing was performed and showed a significant response to intravenous Epoprostenol. We initiated a high-dose calcium channel blocker (CCB) therapy with amlodipine (20 mg daily) which led to symptomatic relief, increased exercise capacity as well as reduction in mean pulmonary artery pressure and pulmonary vascular resistance as confirmed by another right heart catheterization after therapy initiation.

Discussion

Since the presentation is usually non-specific, the diagnosis of pulmonary artery hypertension can be challenging and cause a delay in treatment initiation. Even though rare vasodilator testing and invasive haemodynamic measurements should be performed to identify patients with favourable long-term response to high-dose CCB.
A unique case report of relapsing eosinophilic myocarditis causing atrial myopathy and persistent sinus arrest
Authors: Huynh Ronald , Sy Raymond W , Wong Stephen J , Wong Christopher C Y
Published: February 2022

Background

Eosinophilic myocarditis (EM) is a rare and devastating condition. The underlying cause of EM is unknown, and the natural history is not well understood.

Case summary

A 20-year-old male presented in cardiogenic shock with preceding 24-h history of pleuritic chest pain associated with nausea and vomiting. Electrocardiogram showed sinus tachycardia with widespread ST elevation, significantly raised high-sensitivity troponin T, and raised white cell count with eosinophilia. Transthoracic echocardiogram demonstrated severe left ventricular (LV) impairment and a moderate-sized pericardial effusion. Right ventricular (RV) endomyocardial biopsy and bone marrow biopsy were performed, with both demonstrating prominent eosinophilia. He was initiated on pulse methylprednisolone leading to rapid clinical improvement with normalization of LV function. Day 9 after discharge, he was readmitted to hospital with presyncope and right heart failure. Electrocardiogram revealed junctional escape rhythm, and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging showed scarring confined to the atria. The patient was treated with mepolizumab and underwent an electrophysiology study with electroanatomical mapping, demonstrating sinus arrest and the absence of electrical activity throughout the right atrium. After much deliberation, an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator was implanted with a deep septal RV pacing lead and an apical RV defibrillator lead.

Discussion

We present a unique case of EM with two distinct phases: the first marked by severe LV impairment resolving with immunosuppression; the second characterized by atrial cardiomyopathy leading to persistent symptomatic sinus arrest necessitating permanent pacing. Close follow-up of EM after initial remission is essential to monitor for further complications including heart failure and arrhythmias.
QRS micro-fragmentation as a mortality predictor
Authors: Hnatkova Katerina , Andršová Irena , Novotný Tomáš , Britton Annie , Shipley Martin , Vandenberk Bert , Sprenkeler David J , Junttila Juhani , Reichlin Tobias , Schlögl Simon , Vos Marc A , Friede Tim , Bauer Axel , Huikuri Heikki V , Willems Rik , Schmidt Georg , Franz Michael R , Sticherling Christian , Zabel Markus , Malik Marek
Published: February 2022

Aims

Fragmented QRS complex with visible notching on standard 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) is understood to represent depolarization abnormalities and to signify risk of cardiac events. Depolarization abnormalities with similar prognostic implications likely exist beyond visual recognition but no technology is presently suitable for quantification of such invisible ECG abnormalities. We present such a technology.

Methods and results

A signal processing method projects all ECG leads of the QRS complex into optimized three perpendicular dimensions, reconstructs the ECG back from this three-dimensional projection, and quantifies the difference (QRS ‘micro’-fragmentation, QRS-μf) between the original and reconstructed signals. QRS ‘micro’-fragmentation was assessed in three different populations: cardiac patients with automatic implantable cardioverter-defibrillators, cardiac patients with severe abnormalities, and general public. The predictive value of QRS-μf for mortality was investigated both univariably and in multivariable comparisons with other risk factors including visible QRS ‘macro’-fragmentation, QRS-Mf. The analysis was made in a total of 7779 subjects of whom 504 have not survived the first 5 years of follow-up. In all three populations, QRS-μf was strongly predictive of survival (P < 0.001 univariably, and P < 0.001 to P = 0.024 in multivariable regression analyses). A similar strong association with outcome was found when dichotomizing QRS-μf prospectively at 3.5%. When QRS-μf was used in multivariable analyses, QRS-Mf and QRS duration lost their predictive value.

Conclusion

In three populations with different clinical characteristics, QRS-μf was a powerful mortality risk factor independent of several previously established risk indices. Electrophysiologic abnormalities that contribute to increased QRS-μf values are likely responsible for the predictive power of visible QRS-Mf.
Electrical management of heart failure: from pathophysiology to treatment
Authors: Prinzen Frits W , Auricchio Angelo , Mullens Wilfried , Linde Cecilia , Huizar Jose F
Published: February 2022

Electrical disturbances, such as atrial fibrillation (AF), dyssynchrony, tachycardia, and premature ventricular contractions (PVCs), are present in most patients with heart failure (HF). While these disturbances may be the consequence of HF, increasing evidence suggests that they may also cause or aggravate HF. Animal studies show that longer-lasting left bundle branch block, tachycardia, AF, and PVCs lead to functional derangements at the organ, cellular, and molecular level. Conversely, electrical treatment may reverse or mitigate HF. Clinical studies have shown the superiority of atrial and pulmonary vein ablation for rhythm control and AV nodal ablation for rate control in AF patients when compared with medical treatment. Ablation of PVCs can also improve left ventricular function. Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is an established adjunct therapy currently undergoing several interesting innovations. The current guideline recommendations reflect the safety and efficacy of these ablation therapies and CRT, but currently, these therapies are heavily underutilized. This review focuses on the electrical treatment of HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). We believe that the team of specialists treating an HF patient should incorporate an electrophysiologist in order to achieve a more widespread use of electrical therapies in the management of HFrEF and should also include individual conditions of the patient, such as body size and gender in therapy fine-tuning.
Insight into the 2017–2019 Lurestan arc seismic sequence (Zagros, Iran); complex earthquake interaction in the basement and sediments
Authors: Jamalreyhani Mohammadreza , Rezapour Mehdi , Cesca Simone , Dahm Torsten , Heimann Sebastian , Sudhaus Henriette , Isken Marius Paul
Published: February 2022

Despite its high-seismogenic potential, the details of the seismogenic processes of Zagros Simply Folded Belt (SFB) remains debated. Three large earthquakes (Mw 7.3, 5.9 and 6.3) struck in the Lurestan arc of the Zagros SFB in 2017 and 2018. The sequence was recorded by seismic stations at regional, and teleseismic distances. Coseismic surface displacements, measured by Sentinel-1A/B satellites, provide additional data and a unique opportunity to study these earthquakes in detail. Here, we complement previous studies of the coseismic slip distribution of the 12 November 2017 Mw 7.3 Ezgeleh earthquake by a detailed analysis of its aftershocks, and we analysed the rupture process of the two interrelated earthquakes (25 August 2018 Mw 5.9 Tazehabad and the 25 November 2018 Mw 6.3 Sarpol-e Zahab earthquakes). We model the surface displacements obtained from Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR) measurements and seismic records. We conduct non-linear probabilistic optimizations based on joint InSAR and seismic data to obtain finite-fault rupture of these earthquakes. The Lurestan arc earthquakes were followed by a sustained aftershock activity, with 133 aftershocks exceeding Mn 4.0 until 30 December 2019. We rely on the permanent seismic networks of Iran and Iraq to relocate ∼700 Mn 3 + events and estimate moment tensor solutions for 85 aftershocks down to Mw 4.0. The 2017 Ezgeleh earthquake has been considered to activate a low-angle (∼17°) dextral-thrust fault at the depth of 10–20 km. However, most of its aftershocks have shallow centroid depths (8–12 km). The joint interpretation of finite source models, moment tensor and hypocentral location indicate that the 2018 Tazehabad and Sarpol-e Zahab earthquakes ruptured different strike-slip structures, providing evidence for the activation of the sinistral and dextral strike-slip faults, respectively. The deformation in the Lurestan arc is seismically accommodated by a complex fault system involving both thrust and strike-slip faults. Knowledge about the deformation characteristics is important for the understanding of crustal shortening, faulting and hazard and risk assessment in this region.
Implications of the correlation between radio and far-infrared emission for spiral galaxies
Authors: Chi X , Wolfendale A W
Published: February 2022

A theory is proposed for the correlation between radio continuum (RC) and thermal far-infrared (FIR) radiation for normal spiral galaxies. In this theory, we assume global energy outputs of the FIR and cosmic rays to be proportional to the star formation rate, and adopt energy equipartition between cosmic rays and the interstellar magnetic field so as to keep dynamical stability and steady star formation in the galaxies. It is shown that the tight correlation between the RC and FIR emission results from a steady star formation process in the galaxies rather than both of them being simply from the same source. An important feature of the model is that, in the majority of galaxies, most of the cosmic ray electrons responsible for the radio emission at the observed frequencies escape. An approximate solution to the problem of electron propagation with a free escape boundary condition is derived and the emissivity of synchrotron radio emission is calculated. Direct evidence for the theory is the prediction of a non-unity slope for the correlation between RC and FIR, and this is observed. From small and less luminous galaxies to large and more luminous ones, we predict that there is a turning point above which most of the electrons will be trapped in the galaxies rather than escaping, and correspondingly the slope of the correlation will become unity. From a sample of data, we find this trend.
The distribution of silicon on BP Boo
Authors: Hatzes Artie P
Published: February 2022

A version of the Doppler imaging technique which incorporates the principles of maximum entropy reconstruction is used to derive the silicon distribution on the Ap star BP Boo (HR 5857). The method used made it possible to detect an error in the published photometric period and a new value of 1.29557 d was determined. The silicon distribution consists of two depleted spots of unequal area separated by about 180° in longitude. These spots may coincide with the location of the magnetic poles of the star as in the case of γ2 Ari. Near the larger of the depleted silicon spots is a spot of enhanced abundance. The unequal area of the depleted spots as well as the close proximity of the enhanced spot to one of the depleted regions suggests the presence of non-axisymmetric magnetic field lines. If the depleted spots do indeed coincide with the magnetic poles, then the silicon distribution on BP Boo seems to be consistent with the predictions of diffusion theory that places regions of enhanced silicon near where the field lines are horizontal and depleted silicon in regions of vertical fields.
Short-period variability in Be stars
Authors: Balona L A
Published: February 2022

A highly significant correlation is found between the projected rotational velocities and the photometric periods of Be stars. We show that this correlation may be readily understood if the photometric period is equated with the rotational period. If the nonradial pulsation hypothesis (NRP) is correct, we show that g-modes with radial order exceeding 50 must be involved, and that half the Be stars are pulsating with azimuthal spherical harmonic order m = −1, the other half with m = −2. According to current NRP theory, these results indicate that the Be stars rotate like solid bodies. On the basis of some recent observations which show that considerable magnetic activity is present and a particular episode in the Be star K CMa, we suspect that NRP is unlikely to be the cause of low-order periodic variations in Be stars. We suggest a model of rotational modulation caused by active areas. These are speculated to be the footprints of open magnetic field lines along which enhanced mass loss is occurring.
The steep-spectrum low-frequency variable source 3C99: radio and optical observations
Authors: Mantovani F , Saikia D J , Browne I W A , Fanti R , Muxlow T W B , Padrielli L
Published: February 2022

We present VLA, MERLIN and VLBI observations at cm wavelengths of the radio galaxy 3C99, a low-frequency variable source with a steep radio spectrum. The radio observations show that the source consists of three principal components, which are roughly collinear and have steep radio spectra. Of these, the middle component is the brightest feature at the highest resolutions, has the lowest limits on the degree of polarization and is closest to the position of the optical galaxy. We associate this component with the nucleus of the galaxy and suggest that interstellar scattering of the radiation from it could be responsible for the observed low-frequency variability. The two outer components are very asymmetrically located relative to the nucleus, and also differ in peak brightness by a factor of about 70. We also present optical spectroscopic observations, made with the Isaac Newton Telescope, which show the presence of extended [O in] emission with a systematic velocity shift of the line across the source. We discuss possible relationships between the extended line emission and the radio structure.
Profiles of emission lines in active galactic nuclei - III. Observations of Ha, [N II] and [S II] profiles
Authors: Busko I C , Steiner J E
Published: February 2022

High-resolution (FWHM= 28 km s-1) observations of Ha, [N II] λ6548/6583 and [S II] λ6717/6731 emission lines in several southern active galactic nuclei (AGN) are presented. Deblending of the Hα + [N II] profiles was performed using, when available, the [0 III] λ5007 profile shape as a template. Line profile measurements, as well as line intensities, are tabulated. We found to be relatively common among the observed objects the existence of structure in the line cores, pointing to the complexity of the dynamics in the low-velocity emission region. Differences in profile shape and width amongst different lines are also common, indicating that often there is a superposition, on the spectrograph slit, of emission regions with different dynamics and excitation conditions. This superposition is quantified in the case of IC 5063. We found weak, broad Ha emission in IC 5063 and IC 5135. In NGC 2992, we were unable to confirm the presence of a broad Ha component with the same intensity as found by previous authors, which we ascribe to spectral resolution effects.
Chandra view of Abell 407: the central compact group of galaxies and the interaction between the radio AGN and the ICM
Authors: Geng Chao , Ge Chong , Lal Dharam V , Sun Ming , Ji Li , Xu Haiguang , Liu Wenhao , Hardcastle Martin , Forman William , Kraft Ralph , Jones Christine
Published: February 2022

Abell 407 (A407) is a unique galaxy cluster hosting a central compact group of nine galaxies (named as ‘Zwicky’s Nonet’; G1–G9 in this work) within a 30 kpc radius region. The cluster core also hosts a luminous radio active galactic nucleus (AGN), 4C 35.06 with helically twisted jets extending over 200 kpc. With a 44 ks Chandra observation of A407, we characterize the X-ray properties of its intracluster medium and central galaxies. The mean X-ray temperature of A407 is 2.7 keV and the M200 is $1.9 \times 10^{14}\, {\mathrm{M}_{\odot }}$. We suggest that A407 has a weak cool core at r < 60 kpc scales and at its very centre, <1–2 kpc radius, a small galaxy corona associated with the strong radio AGN. We also conclude that the AGN 4C 35.06 host galaxy is most likely G3. We suggest that the central group of galaxies is undergoing a ‘slow merge’ procedure. The range of the merging time-scale is 0.3 ∼ 2.3 Gyr and the stellar mass of the future brightest cluster galaxy (BCG) will be $7.4\times 10^{11} \, \mathrm{M}_{\odot }$. We find that the regions that overlap with the radio jets have higher temperature and metallicity. This is consistent with AGN feedback activity. The central entropy is higher than that for other clusters, which may be due to the AGN feedback and/or merging activity. With all these facts, we suggest that A407 is a unique and rare system in the local universe that could help us to understand the formation of a massive BCG.
A higher probability of detecting lensed supermassive black hole binaries by LISA
Authors: Gao Zucheng , Chen Xian , Hu Yi-Ming , Zhang Jian-Dong , Huang Shun-Jia
Published: February 2022

Gravitational lensing of gravitational waves (GWs) is a powerful probe of the matter distribution in the universe. Here we revisit the wave-optics effects induced by dark matter (DM) haloes on the GW signals of merging massive black hole binaries (MBHBs), and we study the possibility of discerning these effects using the Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA). In particular, we include the haloes in the low-mass range of $10^5\!-\!10^8\, \mathrm{M}_\odot$ since they are the most numerous according to the cold DM model. We simulate the lensed signals corresponding to a wide range of impact parameters, and we find distinguishable deviation from the standard best-fitting GW templates even when the impact parameter is as large y ≃ 50. Consequently, we estimate that over $(0.1\!-\!1.6){{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ of the MBHBs in the mass range of $10^{5.0}\!-\!10^{6.5}\, \mathrm{M}_\odot$ and the redshift range of 4 − 10 should show detectable wave-optics effects. This probability is one order of magnitude higher than that derived in previous works. The uncertainty comes mainly from the mass function of the DM haloes. Not detecting any signal during the LISA mission would imply that DM haloes with $10^5\!-\!10^8\, \mathrm{M}_\odot$ are less numerous than what the cold DM model predicts.
ExoMol line lists – XLV. Rovibronic molecular line lists of calcium monohydride (CaH) and magnesium monohydride (MgH)
Authors: Owens Alec , Dooley Sophie , McLaughlin Luke , Tan Brandon , Zhang Guanming , Yurchenko Sergei N , Tennyson Jonathan
Published: February 2022

New molecular line lists for calcium monohydride (40Ca1H) and magnesium monohydride (24Mg1H) and its minor isotopologues (25Mg1H and 26Mg1H) are presented. The rotation-vibration-electronic (rovibronic) line lists, named XAB, consider transitions involving the $X\, {}^{2}\Sigma ^{+}$, $A\, {}^{2}\Pi$, and $B/B^{\prime }\, {}^{2}\Sigma ^{+}$ electronic states in the 0–30 000 cm−1 region (wavelengths λ > 0.33 μm) and are suitable for temperatures up to 5000 K. A comprehensive analysis of the published spectroscopic literature on CaH and MgH is used to obtain new extensive data sets of accurate rovibronic energy levels with measurement uncertainties and consistent quantum number labelling. These data sets are used to produce new spectroscopic models for CaH and MgH, composed of newly empirically refined potential energy curves and couplings in/between the different electronic states (e.g. spin-orbit, electronic angular momentum, Born-Oppenheimer breakdown, spin-rotation, Λ-doubling), and previously published ab initio transition dipole moment curves. Along with Einstein A coefficients, state lifetimes and Landé g-factors are provided, the latter being particularly useful as CaH and MgH can be used to probe stellar magnetic fields. Computed energy levels have been replaced with the more accurate empirical values (if available) when post-processing the line lists, thus tailoring the line lists to high-resolution applications. The XAB line lists are available from the ExoMol database at www.exomol.com and the CDS astronomical database.
Measuring the mass of the black widow PSR J1555-2908
Authors: Kennedy M R , Breton R P , Clark C J , Mata Sánchez D , Voisin G , Dhillon V S , Halpern J P , Marsh T R , Nieder L , Ray P S , van Kerkwijk M H
Published: February 2022

Accurate measurements of the masses of neutron stars are necessary to test binary evolution models, and to constrain the neutron star equation of state. In pulsar binaries with no measurable post-Keplerian parameters, this requires an accurate estimate of the binary system’s inclination and the radial velocity of the companion star by other means than pulsar timing. In this paper, we present the results of a new method for measuring this radial velocity using the binary synthesis code Icarus. This method relies on constructing a model spectrum of a tidally distorted, irradiated star as viewed for a given binary configuration. This method is applied to optical spectra of the newly discovered black widow PSR J1555–2908. By modeling the optical spectroscopy alongside optical photometry, we find that the radial velocity of the companion star is 397 ± 4 km s−1 (errors quoted at 95 per cent confidence interval), as well as a binary inclination of >75°. Combined with γ-ray pulsation timing information, this gives a neutron star mass of 1.67$^{+0.15}_{-0.09}$ M⊙ and a companion mass of 0.060$^{+0.005}_{-0.003}$ M⊙, placing PSR J1555–2908 at the observed upper limit of what is considered a black widow system.
A multicentre study of clinical features and HLA typing in Japanese patients with ankylosing spondylitis
Authors: Tada Kurisu , Dobashi Hiroaki , Taniguchi Yoshinori , Shuto Toshihide , Hagimori Kohei , Hayashi Eri , Inoue Hisashi , Kobayashi Shigeto , Ymaji Ken , Tamura Naoto
Published: February 2022

Objectives

Due to the low prevalence of HLA-B27 and ankylosing spondylitis (AS) in Japan, rheumatologists have little experience with AS. We conducted a multicentre study to identify the characteristics and frequency of HLA-B types.

Methods

We analysed epidemiological and clinical data, blood tests, spine radiographs, and HLA-B types in Japanese AS patients.

Results

We evaluated 111 AS patients, predominantly men (82.9%). The mean age, disease onset, diagnosis, and time from onset to diagnosis were 43.7, 24.2, 36.0, and 11.6 years, respectively. Inflammatory low back pain was found in 96 cases (86.5%); peripheral arthritis in 59 (53.2%), enthesitis in 35 (31.5%), and dactylitis in 6 (5.4%). Extra-articular symptoms included uveitis, psoriasis, and inflammatory bowel disease in 41 (36.9%), 1 (0.9%), and 5 (4.5%) cases, respectively. HLA-B27 was positive in 83 cases (74.8%; odds ratio, 1146.0); and HLA-B48 in 9 (8.1%; odds ratio, 3.0). HLA-B27-positive patients were younger at onset and had a shorter diagnostic delay.

Conclusions

AS clinical symptoms were almost the same as other countries except for the low coexistence of psoriasis. HLA-B27 positivity in Japanese patients was 78%. HLA-B27-positive patients were younger and diagnosed earlier. In addition to HLA-B27, a relationship with HLA-B48 was suggested.
Serious and Atypical Presentations of Bartonella henselae Infection in Kidney Transplant Recipients
Authors: Bos Feline , Chauveau Bertrand , Ruel Jules , Fontant Gabriel , Campistron Elise , Meunier Camille , Jambon Frédéric , Moreau Karine , Delmas Yahsou , Couzi Lionel , Korbi Skander , Charrier Manon , Viallard Jean-François , Luciani Léa , Merville Pierre , Lazaro Estibaliz , Kaminski Hannah
Published: February 2022

This article describes 5 cases of bartonellosis with fever and atypical clinical presentations in kidney transplant recipients: thrombotic microangiopathies, recurrent hemophagocytosis, and immune reconstitution syndrome after treatment. The diagnosis, the pathological lesions, and treatments are described. Bartonellosis must be researched in solid organ transplant recipients with fever of undetermined origin.
Momentum, Reversals, and Investor Clientele
Authors: Chui Andy C W , Subrahmanyam Avanidhar , Titman Sheridan
Published: February 2022

Different share classes on the same firms provide a natural experiment to explore how investor clienteles affect momentum and short-term reversals. Domestic retail investors have a greater presence in Chinese A shares and foreign institutions are relatively more prevalent in B shares. These differences result from currency conversion restrictions and mandated investment quotas. We find that only B shares exhibit momentum and earnings drift and only A shares exhibit monthly reversals. Institutional ownership strengthens momentum in B shares. These patterns accord with a setting where short-term reversals (which represent inventory risk premia) prevail in a market dominated by noise traders and momentum prevails in markets where noise traders are less prevalent relative to informed investors who underreact to fundamental signals. Overall, our findings confirm that clienteles matter in generating stock return predictability from past returns.
Ghost Lineages Highly Influence the Interpretation of Introgression Tests
Authors: Tricou Théo , Tannier Eric , de Vienne Damien M
Published: February 2022

Most species are extinct, those that are not are often unknown. Sequenced and sampled species are often a minority of known ones. Past evolutionary events involving horizontal gene flow, such as horizontal gene transfer, hybridization, introgression, and admixture, are therefore likely to involve “ghosts,” that is extinct, unknown, or unsampled lineages. The existence of these ghost lineages is widely acknowledged, but their possible impact on the detection of gene flow and on the identification of the species involved is largely overlooked. It is generally considered as a possible source of error that, with reasonable approximation, can be ignored. We explore the possible influence of absent species on an evolutionary study by quantifying the effect of ghost lineages on introgression as detected by the popular D-statistic method. We show from simulated data that under certain frequently encountered conditions, the donors and recipients of horizontal gene flow can be wrongly identified if ghost lineages are not taken into account. In particular, having a distant outgroup, which is usually recommended, leads to an increase in the error probability and to false interpretations in most cases. We conclude that introgression from ghost lineages should be systematically considered as an alternative possible, even probable, scenario. [ABBA–BABA; D-statistic; gene flow; ghost lineage; introgression; simulation.]
The relationship between tree size and tree water-use: is competition for water size-symmetric or size-asymmetric?
Authors: Forrester David I , Limousin Jean-Marc , Pfautsch Sebastian
Published: February 2022

Relationships between tree size and water use indicate how soil water is partitioned between differently sized individuals, and hence competition for water. These relationships are rarely examined, let alone whether there is consistency in shape across populations. Competition for water among plants is often assumed to be size-symmetric, i.e., exponents (b1) of power functions (water use ∝ biomassb1) equal to 1, with all sizes using the same amount of water proportionally to their size. We tested the hypothesis that b1 actually varies greatly, and based on allometric theory, that b1 is only centered around 1 when size is quantified as basal area or sapwood area (not diameter). We also examined whether b1 varies spatially and temporally in relation to stand structure (height and density) and climate. Tree water use ∝ sizeb1 power functions were fitted for 80 species and 103 sites using the global SAPFLUXNET database. The b1 were centered around 1 when tree size was given as basal area or sapwood area, but not as diameter. The 95% confidence intervals of b1 included the theoretical predictions for the scaling of plant vascular networks. b1 changed through time within a given stand for the species with the longest time series, such that larger trees gained an advantage during warmer and wetter conditions. Spatial comparisons across the entire dataset showed that b1 correlated only weakly (R2 < 12%) with stand structure or climate, suggesting that inter-specific variability in b1 and hence the symmetry of competition for water may be largely related to inter-specific differences in tree architecture or physiology rather than to climate or stand structure. In conclusion, size-symmetric competition for water (b1 ≈ 1) may only be assumed when size is quantified as basal area or sapwood area, and when describing a general pattern across forest types and species. There is substantial deviation in b1 between individual stands and species.
Rising to the COVID-19 Challenge
Authors: Garvey Paula K. , Sampson Marlene , Winfield Scott R.
Published: February 2022

This article will describe the creation and implementation of a remote learning failure to rescue (FTR) class with remote experiential simulation technology into a nurse residency program. The COVID-19 pandemic impacted traditional delivery methods for education within nurse residency programs. Following is the background of this hospital’s nurse residency program and FTR curriculum and a description of the creation and implementation of a remote FTR class using internally developed remote experiential simulation technology.
Investigation of Autologous Fat Transfer in Capsule Formation around Silicone Implants in a Rat Model
Authors: Papaconstantinou Anthony , Koletsa Triantafyllia , Demiri Efterpi , Tzorakoleftheraki Sofia-Eleni , Gasteratos Kostantinos , Pavlidis Leonidas , Dionyssiou Dimitrios , Spyropoulou Georgia-Alexandra
Published: February 2022

Background:

In this experimental study, the authors investigated whether fat placement in the pocket during implant insertion affects capsule formation.

Methods:

Twenty albino Wistar rats, 400 g each, were used. The rats were divided into two groups, A and B, of 10 rats each. At the dorsum of each rat, four pockets (2 × 2 cm each) were dissected, two left and two right of the midline. In each pocket, a 1 × 1 × 1.5-cm silicone implant was inserted. In the two left pockets, only silicone implants were placed (control). In the two right pockets, 0.4 ml of fat was injected around the implant. Animals in group A were killed 2 months postoperatively, and those in group B were killed 4 months postoperatively. The implants were dissected with the capsule and sent for histopathologic examination.

Results:

The data of the fat transfer group was compared with control in groups A and B. Capsule thickness, neovascularization, myofibroblast layer thickness, and mast cell population demonstrated no statistically significant difference in either group A (p = 0.385, p = 0.862, p = 0.874, and p = 0.210, respectively) or group B (p = 0.338, p = 1.000, p = 0.288, and p = 0.344, respectively). Inflammation was statistically significantly less (p = 0.07) at 4 months (group B) in the fat transfer group compared to the control group. Likewise, cellularity was statistically significantly less (p = 0.019) at 4 months for the fat transfer group compared with the control group.

Conclusion:

Fat injection in the pocket during implant placement may reduce inflammation and cellularity of capsules and predispose to faster capsule maturation.

Clinical Relevance Statement:

Fat transfer around implants may positively affect implant-based breast reconstruction and/or breast augmentation.
Incorrect Knowledge of Event-Driven PrEP “2-1-1” Dosing Regimen Among PrEP-Experienced Gay and Bisexual Men in Australia
Authors: Chan Curtis , Vaccher Stefanie , Fraser Doug , Grulich Andrew E. , Holt Martin , Zablotska-Manos Iryna , Prestage Garrett P. , Bavinton Benjamin R.
Published: February 2022

Background:

Event-driven pre-exposure prophylaxis (ED-PrEP), when taken according to the “2-1-1” dosing method, is highly effective at preventing HIV acquisition for gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBM). Any missed doses when using ED-PrEP drastically reduce its effectiveness, so it is vital that people using this method know how to take it correctly. This study investigated Australian GBM's awareness of ED-PrEP and their knowledge of how to take it correctly.

Method:

We conducted a survey of 1471 PrEP-experienced GBM in Australia, between October 2019 and March 2020. The survey assessed awareness and knowledge of the 3 components of the “2-1-1” ED-PrEP dosing regimen (number of pills for loading dose, timing of loading dose, and number of days after sex to take PrEP pills) among GBM. Characteristics associated with ED-PrEP awareness and correct knowledge of how to take ED-PrEP were assessed with multivariate logistic regression.

Results:

Two-thirds (n = 1004, 68.4%) had heard of ED-PrEP, of whom only one-eighth (n = 125, 12.5%) knew the correct details of the “2-1-1” ED-PrEP method; one-third (n = 339, 33.8%) did not know any of the 3 key components. Awareness of ED-PrEP and correct knowledge was associated with greater belief in PrEP efficacy, university education, and intention to take a nondaily PrEP regimen in the next 6 months.

Conclusions:

Although ED-PrEP awareness was considerable, most participants did not know how to use ED-PrEP correctly. Further work is needed to increase awareness and knowledge of ED-PrEP among GBM.