bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feasibility and long-term outcomes of surgery for primary thoracic synovial sarcoma
Authors: Pieropan Sara , Mercier Olaf , Mitilian Delphine , Pradère Pauline , Fabre Dominique , Ion Daniela Iolanda , Mir Olivier , Galbardi Barbara , Thomas De Montpreville Vincent , Fadel Elie
Published: September 2022

OBJECTIVES

Primary thoracic synovial sarcoma (SS) is a rare, high-grade, malignancy. Involvement of vital organs is frequent and may decrease the benefits of surgical resection. We reviewed our practice at a highly experienced thoracic-surgery centre to assess early- and long-term outcomes after surgery.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective, observational, single-centre study of patients undergoing curative-intent surgery for primary thoracic SS between 1 January 2000 and 31 January 2021 as part of a multidisciplinary management. We assessed demographics, medical history, histopathology and follow-up information.

RESULTS

We enrolled 20 patients (13 males) with a median age of 40 years old and a median tumour size of 11 cm. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy was administered to 13 patients. Surgery consisted in extrapleural pneumonectomy (n = 7), extrapleural lobectomy (n = 5), chest wall resection (n = 4) or tumour resection (n = 4). R0 resection was achieved in 16 (80%) patients. Adjuvant therapy was given to 13 patients. 6 patients developed postoperative complications. The median hospital stay was 11.5 days. Overall survival at 2 and 5 years was 51% and 22%, respectively; median overall survival was 25 months and median disease-free survival was 8.5 months. Relapses occurred in 15 patients. By univariate analysis, incomplete resection was the only significant predictor of survival (P = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Primary thoracic SS is an aggressive disease. Surgery included in a multimodal treatment may contribute to achieving a good outcome, providing that an R0 resection is obtained. Given the considerable technical challenges of surgery, patient selection and referral to an experienced centre are crucial to minimize morbidity and mortality.
Chain destruction of methane–hydrogen explosion in utility tunnel to adjacent space
Authors: Zhang Shuhao , Yao Yanchen , Yang Xinying , Du Jianmei
Published: September 2022

Hydrogen is clean energy possible be transported in pipelines under utility tunnels in the future. Current research about gas explosions in the utility tunnel ignored the damage in the adjacent zones, the fire-proof wall, the above ventilated mezzanine and the escape room. The numerical simulation of methane–hydrogen explosion considering the chain destruction is conducted. The results show that the maximum overpressure peak is 6 MPa under 100% H2, and the fire-proof wall will increase the explosive intensity, so the length of one gas compartment should increase to 400 m or 600 m. The maximum overpressure sometimes presents in the adjacent zone rather than the explosive center, and the shock wave will not influence the ventilated mezzanine much. However, the flame will influence ventilated mezzanine, even the ground, so the adjacent zones, ventilated mezzanine and escape room are also dangerous. Therefore, a novel emergency system should be discussed for high-proportion-hydrogen transportation in utility tunnels.
Universality for Low-Degree Factors of Random Polynomials over Finite Fields
Authors: He Jimmy , Tuan Pham Huy , Wenqiang Xu Max
Published: September 2022

We show that the counts of low-degree irreducible factors of a random polynomial $f$ over $\mathbb {F}_q$ with independent but nonuniform coefficients behave like that of a uniform random polynomial, exhibiting a form of universality for random polynomials over finite fields. Our strongest results require various assumptions on the parameters, but we are able to obtain results requiring only $q=p$ a prime with $p\leq \exp ({n^{1/13}})$ where $n$ is the degree of the polynomial. Our proofs use Fourier analysis and rely on tools recently applied by Breuillard and Varjú to study the $ax+b$ process, which show equidistribution for $f(\alpha )$ at a single point. We extend this to handle multiple roots and the Hasse derivatives of $f$, which allow us to study the irreducible factors with multiplicity.
Efficient approach to automated pavement manhole cover detection with modified faster R-CNN
Authors: Zhang Hang , Dong Zishuo , He Anzheng , Zhang Allen A , Wang Kelvin C P , Liu Yang , Xu Jie , Shang Jing , Ai Changfa
Published: September 2022

At the present time, increasing attention is being paid to the detection of road facilities, such as manhole covers— an important type of road facility which can have tangible impacts on driving safety and comfort. This paper proposes a robust method based on a modification of the Faster Region Convolutional Neural Network (Faster R-CNN) to automatically detect pavement manhole covers. We establish a manually annotated image library that consists of 1,245 manhole cover images collected by 1 mm laser imaging system, and implement the modified Faster R-CNN architecture to locate manhole covers exclusively under realistic and complex environments. Compared with the original Faster R-CNN, the proposed modification is to replace the feature extractor used in the original Faster R-CNN with a more-efficient backbone ResNet50, and implement a Feature Pyramid Network (FPN) to fuse multi-scale features. The experimental results demonstrate that the modified Faster R-CNN outperforms the original Faster R-CNN and other state-of-the-art models, including YOLOv4, EfficientDet, and YOLOX. The F1-score and Overall-IOU achieved by the modified Faster R-CNN on 250 test images are 98.15 per cent and 92.07 per cent respectively. To further verify the robustness of the proposed method, the modified Faster R-CNN is applied to process manhole cover images which are taken randomly by a smartphone and thus very different to the manhole cover images acquired by the laser imaging system. It is found that the modified Faster R-CNN can also yield similar detection efficiency even for images representing highly dissimilar viewing angles and unforeseen scenarios, implying the benefits of deep-learning-based object detection algorithms to intelligent investigation of pavement manhole covers.
Relevance of the Consensus Principles for Appropriate Antibiotic Prescribing in 2022
Authors: Cantón Rafael , Akova Murat , Langfeld Karen , Torumkuney Didem
Published: September 2022

Background

In the late 1990s, as a response to rising antimicrobial resistance (AMR), an independent multinational, interdisciplinary group was formed specifically targeting primary care antibiotic prescribing for community-acquired respiratory tract infections (CA-RTIs). The group comprised senior clinicians from Canada, Israel, Spain, Sweden, UK and USA. The group’s objectives were to provide recommendations for antibiotic stewardship in the community because, whilst it was widely accepted that inappropriate antibiotic use was contributing to AMR, it remained difficult to change prescribing behaviour. The group aimed to identify principles underlying appropriate antibiotic prescribing and guideline formulation to reduce morbidity from CA-RTIs, limit therapeutic failure and, importantly, curb AMR emergence. The group published a report in 2002, which has become known as the Consensus Principles.

Objectives

(i) To consider the relevance of the Consensus Principles in 2022 by reviewing current global approaches to rising AMR. A wide range of factors, such as antibiotic overuse, most recently seen in COVID-19 patients, are still driving rising AMR even though there has been a high-level international response to the AMR threat; and (ii) as an introduction to this Supplement, which reports the findings of analyses of how AMR is being addressed in nine disparate countries (Brazil, India, Kuwait, Mexico, Pakistan, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and Vietnam). Understanding how these initiatives are being pursued in different countries helps identify areas where more information is needed.

Conclusions

Adherence to the Consensus Principles remains as important now as it was in 2002. Achieving appropriate antibiotic prescribing is a vital objective in order that the right patient receives the right antibiotics at the right time to ensure optimal clinical outcomes while at the same time helping to limit further increases in AMR.
Country data on AMR in Türkiye in the context of community-acquired respiratory tract infections: links between antibiotic susceptibility, local and international antibiotic prescribing guidelines, access to medicine and clinical outcome
Authors: Torumkuney Didem , Aktas Zerrin , Unal Serhat , van Hasselt James , Seyhun Yalcin , Keles Nergis
Published: September 2022

Background

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the biggest threats to global public health. Selection of resistant bacteria is driven by inappropriate use of antibiotics, amongst other factors. COVID-19 may have exacerbated AMR due to unnecessary antibiotic prescribing. Country-level knowledge is needed to understand options for action.

Objectives

To review AMR in Türkiye and initiatives addressing it. Identifying any areas where more information is required will provide a call to action to minimize any further rise in AMR within Türkiye and to improve patient outcomes.

Methods

National AMR initiatives, antibiotic use and prescribing, and availability of susceptibility data, particularly for the key community-acquired respiratory tract infection (CA-RTI) pathogens Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae, were identified. National and international antibiotic prescribing guidelines commonly used locally for specific CA-RTIs (community-acquired pneumonia, acute otitis media, acute bacterial rhinosinusitis) were also reviewed, plus local antibiotic availability. Insights from both a local clinician and local clinical microbiologist were sought to contextualize this information.

Conclusions

Türkiye developed an antibiotic stewardship programme, The Rational Drug Use National Action Plan 2014–2017, prioritizing appropriate antibiotic prescription in the community. Public campaigns discouraging inappropriate antibiotic use were also initiated. Türkiye has a high level of antibiotic resistance and a high level of consumption, however, in 2015 over-the-counter antibiotic sales were prohibited, resulting in a declining trend in overall consumption. There is still a need for physician education on current developments in antibiotic use. Several ongoing global surveillance studies provide antibiotic susceptibility data in Türkiye. Clinicians in Türkiye use several country-specific guidelines for common CA-RTIs plus a range of international guidelines. A more standardized inclusive approach in developing local guidelines, using up-to-date surveillance data on isolates from community-acquired infections in Türkiye, could make guideline use more relevant for clinicians. This would pave the way for a higher level of appropriate antibiotic prescribing and improved adherence. This would, in turn, potentially limit AMR development and improve patient outcome.
Country data on AMR in Kuwait in the context of community-acquired respiratory tract infections: links between antibiotic susceptibility, local and international antibiotic prescribing guidelines, access to medicine and clinical outcome
Authors: Torumkuney Didem , Behbehani Naser , van Hasselt James , Hamouda Mohamed , Keles Nergis
Published: September 2022

Background

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the biggest threats to global public health. Selection of resistant bacteria is driven by inappropriate use of antibiotics, amongst other factors. COVID-19 may have exacerbated AMR due to unnecessary antibiotic prescribing. Country-level knowledge is needed to understand options for action.

Objectives

To review AMR in Kuwait and initiatives underway addressing it. Identifying any areas where more information is required will provide a call to action to minimize any further rise in AMR within Kuwait and to improve patient outcomes.

Methods

National initiatives to address AMR, antibiotic use and prescribing, and availability of susceptibility data, particularly for the key community-acquired respiratory tract infection (CA-RTI) pathogens Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae, were identified. National and international antibiotic prescribing guidelines commonly used locally for specific CA-RTIs (community-acquired pneumonia, acute otitis media and acute bacterial rhinosinusitis) were also reviewed, plus local antibiotic availability. Insights from a clinician in Kuwait were sought to contextualize this information.

Conclusions

In Kuwait there have been some initiatives addressing AMR such as annual campaigns for proper use of antibiotics. Antibiotic use is high but there appears to be a low understanding in the general public about their appropriate use. However, there is legislation in place prohibiting over-the-counter purchase of antibiotics. Only international guidelines for CA-RTIs are used. A more standardized inclusive approach in developing local guidelines, using up-to-date surveillance data of isolates from community-acquired infections in Kuwait, could make management guideline use more locally relevant for clinicians. This would pave the way for a higher level of appropriate antibiotic prescribing and improved adherence. This would, in turn, potentially limit AMR development and improve clinical patient outcomes.
(Pro)renin receptor and insulin signalling regulate cell proliferation in MCF-7 breast cancer cells
Authors: Sato Shigemitsu , Hirose Takuo , Ohba Koji , Watanabe Fumihiko , Watanabe Tomoki , Minato Kazuya , Endo Akari , Ito Hiroki , Mori Takefumi , Takahashi Kazuhiro
Published: September 2022

(Pro)renin receptor [(P)RR] is related to both the renin-angiotensin system and V-ATPase with various functions including stimulation of cell proliferation. (P)RR is implicated in the pathophysiology of diabetes mellitus and cancer. Hyperinsulinemia is observed in obesity-related breast cancer. However, the relationship between (P)RR and insulin has not been clarified. We have therefore studied the effect of insulin on (P)RR expression, cell viability and AKT phosphorylation under the conditions with and without (P)RR knockdown. Effects of insulin were studied in a human breast cancer cell line, MCF-7. Cell proliferation assay was performed by WST-8 assay. (P)RR expression was suppressed by (P)RR-specific siRNAs. The treated cells were analysed by western blotting and reverse transcriptase-quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis. Insulin stimulated proliferation of MCF-7 cells and increased (P)RR protein expression, but not (P)RR mRNA levels. Moreover, autophagy flux was suppressed by insulin. Suppression of (P)RR expression reduced cell number of MCF-7 cells and AKT phosphorylation significantly in both the presence and the absence of insulin, indicating that (P)RR is important for cell viability and AKT phosphorylation. In conclusion, insulin upregulates the level of (P)RR protein, which is important for cell viability, proliferation, AKT phosphorylation and autophagy in breast cancer cells.
Influence of nitrogen sources on the tolerance of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus to heat stress and oxidative stress
Authors: Zhang Chenchen , Han Yuemei , Gui Ya , Wa Yunchao , Chen Dawei , Huang Yujun , Yin Boxing , Gu Ruixia
Published: September 2022

It has been found that 32 genes related to nitrogen source metabolism in Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus are downregulated under both heat stress and oxidative stress. In this study, the influence of different nitrogen sources within the growth medium on the tolerance of L. rhamnosus to heat stress and oxidative stress was investigated. Tryptone-free MRS was found to enhance the tolerance of L. rhamnosus hsryfm 1301 to heat stress and oxidative stress during the whole growth period, and this result was universal for all L. rhamnosus species analyzed. The strongest strengthening effect occurred when the OD600 value reached 2.0, at which the survival rates under heat stress and oxidative stress increased 130-fold and 40-fold, respectively. After supplementing phenylalanine, isoleucine, glutamate, valine, histidine, or tryptophan into the tryptone-free MRS, the tolerance of L. rhamnosus to heat stress and oxidative stress exhibited a sharp drop. The spray drying survival rate of L. rhamnosus hsryfm 1301 cultured in the tryptone-free MRS rose to 75% (from 30%), and the spray dried powder also performed better in the experimentally simulated gastrointestinal digestion. These results showed that decreasing the intake of amino acids is an important mechanism for L. rhamnosus to tolerate heat stress and oxidative stress. When L. rhamnosus is cultured for spray drying, the concentration of the nitrogen source's components should be an important consideration.
U1 snRNP proteins promote proximal alternative polyadenylation sites by directly interacting with 3′ end processing core factors
Authors: Hu Zhijie , Li Mengxia , Huo Zhanfeng , Chen Liutao , Liu Susu , Deng Ke , Lu Xin , Chen Shangwu , Fu Yonggui , Xu Anlong
Published: September 2022

In eukaryotic cells, both alternative splicing and alternative polyadenylation (APA) play essential roles in the gene regulation network. U1 small ribonucleoprotein particle (U1 snRNP) is a major component of spliceosome, and U1 snRNP complex can suppress proximal APA sites through crosstalking with 3′ end processing factors. However, here we show that both knockdown and overexpression of SNRPA, SNRPC, SNRNP70, and SNRPD2, the U1 snRNP proteins, promote the usage of proximal APA sites at the transcriptome level. SNRNP70 can drive the phase transition of PABPN1 from droplet to aggregate, which may reduce the repressive effects of PABPN1 on the proximal APA sites. Additionally, SNRNP70 can also promote the proximal APA sites by recruiting CPSF6, suggesting that the function of CPSF6 on APA is related with other RNA-binding proteins and cell context-dependent. Consequently, these results reveal that, on the contrary to U1 snRNP complex, the free proteins of U1 snRNP complex can promote proximal APA sites through the interaction with 3′ end processing machinery.
Whole-Exome Sequencing Study of Familial Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma and Its Implication for Identifying High-Risk Individuals
Authors: Wang Tong-Min , He Yong-Qiao , Xue Wen-Qiong , Zhang Jiang-Bo , Xia Yun-Fei , Deng Chang-Mi , Zhang Wen-Li , Xiao Ruo-Wen , Liao Ying , Yang Da-Wei , Zhou Ting , Li Dan-Hua , Luo Lu-Ting , Tong Xia-Ting , Wu Yan-Xia , Chen Xue-Yin , Li Xi-Zhao , Zhang Pei-Fen , Zheng Xiao-Hui , Zhang Shao-Dan , Hu Ye-Zhu , Wang Fang , Wu Zi-Yi , Zheng Mei-Qi , Huang Jing-Wen , Jia Yi-Jing , Yuan Lei-Lei , You Rui , Zhou Guan-Qun , Lu Li-Xia , Liu Yu-Ying , Chen Ming-Yuan , Feng Lin , Dai Wei , Ren Ze-Fang , Mai Hai-Qiang , Sun Ying , Ma Jun , Zheng Wei , Lung Maria Li , Jia Wei-Hua
Published: September 2022

Background

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is closely associated with genetic factors and Epstein-Barr virus infection, showing strong familial aggregation. Individuals with a family history suffer elevated NPC risk, requiring effective genetic counseling for risk stratification and individualized prevention.

Methods

We performed whole-exome sequencing on 502 familial NPC patients and 404 unaffected relatives and controls. We systematically evaluated the established cancer predisposition genes and investigated novel NPC susceptibility genes, making comparisons with 21 other familial cancers in the UK biobank (N = 5218).

Results

Rare pathogenic mutations in the established cancer predisposition genes were observed in familial NPC patients, including ERCC2 (1.39%), TP63 (1.00%), MUTYH (0.80%), and BRCA1 (0.80%). Additionally, 6 novel susceptibility genes were identified. RAD54L, involved in the DNA repair pathway together with ERCC2, MUTYH, and BRCA1, showed the highest frequency (4.18%) in familial NPC. Enrichment analysis found mutations in TP63 were enriched in familial NPC, and RAD54L and EML2 were enriched in both NPC and other Epstein-Barr virus–associated cancers. Besides rare variants, common variants reported in the studies of sporadic NPC were also associated with familial NPC risk. Individuals in the top quantile of common variant-derived genetic risk score while carrying rare variants exhibited increased NPC risk (odds ratio = 13.47, 95% confidence interval = 6.33 to 28.68, P = 1.48 × 10–11); men in this risk group showed a cumulative lifetime risk of 24.19%, much higher than those in the bottom common variant-derived genetic risk score quantile and without rare variants (2.04%).

Conclusions

This study expands the catalog of NPC susceptibility genes and provides the potential for risk stratification of individuals with an NPC family history.
Optic compressive neuropathy secondary to anterior clinoid mucocele: diagnostic approach, a case report
Authors: Medina-Valencia Francisco J , García-Pretelt Enrique C , Alzate-Carvajal Verónica , Moreno-Huertas Camilo E , Moreno-Arango Isabella
Published: September 2022

Anterior clinoid process (ACP) mucoceles are an uncommon entity and an even rarer cause of visual impairment. We review the case of a 62-year-old female with a 2-year history of progressive right-sided monocular vision loss. Paranasal sinus computed tomography (CT) scan showed bilateral ACP pneumatization. A soft tissue density mass occupied the right ACP with bone expansion and compression of the right orbital canal. An endonasal approach was performed with total vision recovery. Dedicated images are necessary to diagnose ACP. On CT, the affected sinus will have bone erosions. On magnetic resonance imaging, the signal intensity is determined by its protein concentration and mobile water protons. ACP mucoceles’ accurate diagnosis determinates the treatment and surgical approach. Finally, the correct management selection will determine the retrieval of the visual ability.
Bioclimatic controls of CO2 assimilation near range limits of the CAM succulent tree Aloidendron dichotomum
Authors: Grey Kerry-Anne , Foden Wendy B , Midgley Guy F
Published: September 2022

Aloidendron dichotomum appears to be undergoing the early stages of a range shift in response to anthropogenic climate change in south-western Africa. High mortality has been recorded in warmer populations, while population expansions have been recorded in cooler poleward parts of its range. This study aimed to determine the key environmental controls on A. dichotomum photosynthesis in areas of population expansion, to inform the potential attribution of directional population expansion to anthropogenic warming. Nocturnal acid accumulation and CO2 assimilation were measured in individuals growing under a range of temperature and watering treatments in a greenhouse experiment. In addition, nocturnal acid accumulation and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase activity were quantified in two wild populations at the most southerly and south-easterly range extents. Multiple lines of evidence confirmed that A. dichotomum performs Crassulacean acid metabolism. Total nocturnal acid accumulation was highest at night-time temperatures of ~21.5 °C, regardless of soil water availability, and night-time CO2 assimilation rates increased with leaf temperature, suggesting a causal link to the cool southern range limit. Leaf acidity at the start of the dark period was highly predictive of nocturnal acid accumulation in all individuals, implicating light availability during the day as an important determinant of nocturnal acid accumulation.
Japanese and Jews in Shanghai
Authors: Hochstadt Steve
Published: September 2022

The actions of the Japanese government and military before and during the Holocaust saved tens of thousands of Jews in Shanghai from murder by Japan’s Nazi allies. Because the Japanese were brutal aggressors in East Asia, because their treatment of the Chinese population was genocidal, because the details and organization of Japanese sexual abuse of Korean women are still matters of international dispute, approaches to the Japanese treatment of European Jewish refugees begin from a negative standpoint. Japanese authorities have not investigated or revealed these actions, and Japanese academics have only just begun to consider this issue worthy of study. Discussion of Japanese policy in Shanghai is often dominated by evidence of antisemitism in Japan, the creation of the Designated Area in 1943 to confine Jewish refugees, and the brutally officious behavior of Kanoh Ghoya. The issuance of life-saving visas by Chiune Sugihara, Japanese Vice-Consul in Kovno, is treated as exceptional humanitarianism. This study focuses on the decisions and behavior of Japanese authorities toward European Jewish refugees in Japan and in Shanghai which allowed them to survive.
GASP XXXIX: MeerKAT hunts Jellyfish in A2626
Authors: Deb Tirna , Verheijen Marc A W , Poggianti Bianca M , Moretti Alessia , van der Hulst J M , Vulcani Benedetta , Ramatsoku Mpati , Serra Paolo , Healy Julia , Gullieuszik Marco , Bacchini Cecilia , Ignesti Alessandro , Müller Ancla , Zabel Nikki , Luber Nicholas , Jaffë Yara L , Gitti Myriam
Published: September 2022

We present MeerKAT H i observations of six jellyfish candidate galaxies (JFCGs) in the galaxy cluster, A2626. Two of the six galaxies JW100 and JW103, which were identified as JFCGs from B-band images, are confirmed as jellyfish galaxies (JFGs). Both of the JFGs have low H i content, reside in the cluster core, and move at very high velocities (∼ 3σcl). The other JFCGs, identified as non-jellyfish galaxies, are H i rich, with H i morphologies revealing warps, asymmetries, and possible tidal interactions. Both the A2626 JFGs and three other confirmed JFGs from the GASP sample show that these galaxies are H i stripped but not yet quenched. We detect H i, H α, and CO(2-1) tails of similar extent (∼50 kpc) in JW100. Comparing the multiphase velocity channels, we do not detect any H i or CO(2-1) emission in the northern section of the tail where H α emission is present, possibly due to prolonged interaction between the stripped gas and the intracluster medium. We also observe an anticorrelation between H i and CO(2-1), which hints at an efficient conversion of H i to H2 in the southern part of the tail. We find that both ram-pressure stripping and H i-to-H2 conversion are significant depletion channels for atomic gas. H i-to-H2 conversion is more efficient in the disc than in the tail.
Validation of TESS exoplanet candidates orbiting solar analogues in the all-sky PLATO input catalogue
Authors: Mantovan Giacomo , Montalto Marco , Piotto Giampaolo , Wilson Thomas G , Cameron Andrew Collier , Majidi Fatemeh Zahra , Borsato Luca , Granata Valentina , Nascimbeni Valerio
Published: September 2022

The Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) is focusing on relatively bright stars and has found thousands of planet candidates. However, mainly because of the low spatial resolution of its cameras (≈ 21 arcsec/pixel), TESS is expected to detect several false positives (FPs); hence, vetting needs to be done. Here, we present a follow-up program of TESS candidates orbiting solar-analogue stars that are in the all-sky PLATO input catalogue. Using Gaia photometry and astrometry we built an absolute colour–magnitude diagram and isolated solar-analogue candidates’ hosts. We performed a probabilistic validation of each candidate using the vespa software and produced a prioritized list of objects that have the highest probability of being genuine transiting planets. Following this procedure, we eliminated the majority of FPs and statistically vetted 23 candidates. For this remaining set, we performed a stellar neighbourhood analysis using Gaia Early Data Release 3 and centroid motion tests, greatly enhancing the on-target probability of 12 of them. We then used publicly available high-resolution imaging data to confirm their transit source and found five new, fully validated planets. For the remaining candidates, we propose on–off photometry to further refine the list of genuine candidates and prepare for the subsequent radial velocity follow-up.
Baryon acoustic oscillations from H i intensity mapping: The importance of cross-correlations in the monopole and quadrupole
Authors: Rubiola Andrea , Cunnington Steven , Camera Stefano
Published: September 2022

Cosmological parameter estimation in the post-reionization era via neutral hydrogen radio emission (H i) is among the key science goals of the forthcoming SKA Observatory (SKAO). This paper explores detection capability for baryon acoustic oscillations (BAO) with a suite of 100 simulations introducing the main limitations from foreground contamination and poor angular resolution caused by the radio telescope beam. Such broad single-dish beam representing a serious challenge for BAO detection with H i intensity mapping, we investigate a multipole expansion approach as a means for mitigating such limitations. We also showcase the gains made from cross-correlating the H i intensity mapping data with an overlapping spectroscopic galaxy survey, aiming to test potential synergies between the SKA project and other future cosmological experiments at optical/near-infrared wavelengths. For our ${\sim}\,4\, 000\,\mathrm{deg}^2$ data set at $z\, {=}\, 0.9$, replicating the essential features of an SKAO H i intensity mapping survey, we were able to achieve a ${\sim }\, 4.5\sigma$ detection of BAO features in auto-correlation despite the dominant beam effect. Cross-correlation with an overlapping galaxy survey can increase this to a ${\sim }\, 6\sigma$ detection. Furthermore, including the power spectrum quadrupole besides the monopole in a joint fit can approximately double the BAO detection significance. Despite not implementing a radial-only P(k∥) analysis in favour of the three-dimensional $P(\boldsymbol {k})$ and its multipoles, we were still able to obtain robust constraints on the radial Alcock–Paczynski parameter, whereas the perpendicular parameter remains unconstrained and prior dominated due to beam effects.
Anisotropic satellite accretion on to the Local Group with HESTIA
Authors: Dupuy Alexandra , Libeskind Noam I , Hoffman Yehuda , Courtois Hélène M , Gottlöber Stefan , Grand Robert J J , Knebe Alexander , Sorce Jenny G , Tempel Elmo , Tully R Brent , Vogelsberger Mark , Wang Peng
Published: September 2022

How the cosmic web feeds haloes, and fuels galaxy formation is an open question with wide implications. This study explores the mass assembly in the Local Group (LG) within the context of the local cosmography by employing simulations whose initial conditions have been constrained to reproduce the local environment. The goal of this study is to inspect whether the direction of accretion of satellites on to the Milky Way and Andromeda galaxies is related to the cosmic web. The analysis considers the three high-resolution simulations available in the HESTIA simulation suite, as well as the derived velocity shear and tidal tensors. We notice two eras in the LG accretion history, delimited by an epoch around z ≈ 0.7. We also find that satellites can travel up to ∼4 Mpc, relative to their parent halo before crossing its viral radius R200. Finally, we observe a strong alignment of the infall direction with the axis of slowest collapse $\boldsymbol{e}_{3}$ of both tidal and shear tensors, implying satellites of the LG originated from one particular region of the cosmic web and were channeled towards us via the process of accretion.This alignment is dominated by the satellites that enter during the early infall era, i.e. z > 0.7.
High-resolution spectral models of TRAPPIST-1e seen as a Pale Blue Dot for ELT and JWST observations
Authors: Lin Zifan , Kaltenegger Lisa
Published: September 2022

Rocky exoplanets orbiting in the habitable zone (HZ) of nearby M dwarfs provide unique opportunities for characterizing their atmospheres and searching for biosignature gases. TRAPPIST-1e, a temperate Earth-sized exoplanet in the HZ of a nearby M dwarf, is arguably the most favourable target for ground- and space-based atmospheric characterization by the extremely large telescopes (ELTs) and the James Webb Space Telescope. To inform future observations in reflected and emitted lights using these upcoming telescopes, we simulate the high-resolution reflection and emission spectra for TRAPPIST-1e for both modern and prebiotic Earth-like atmospheric compositions. To demonstrate the effects of wavelength-dependent albedo on climate and spectra, we further simulate five albedo scenarios for each atmospheric composition: cloudy modern Earth-like, cloud-free modern Earth-like, cloudy ocean planet, 100 per cent cloudy planet, and wavelength-independent albedo of 0.31. We use the recent Mega-MUSCLES spectral energy distribution of TRAPPIST-1 for our models. We show that the O2 + CH4 and O3 + CH4 biosignature pairs as well as climate indicators (CO2 and H2O) show features in both high-resolution reflection and emission spectra of TRAPPIST-1e that the ELTs can search for. Our high-resolution data base for modern and prebiotic Earth TRAPPIST-1e models with various surface compositions and cloud distributions provides a tool for observers to train retrieval algorithms and plan observation strategies to characterize this potentially habitable world.
Rapid localization of gravitational wave hosts with FIGARO
Authors: Rinaldi Stefano , Del Pozzo Walter
Published: September 2022

The copious scientific literature produced after the detection of GW170817 electromagnetic counterpart demonstrated the importance of a prompt and accurate localization of the gravitational wave within the comoving volume. In this letter, we present figaro, a ready to use and publicly available software that relies on Bayesian non-parametrics. figaro is designed to run in parallel with parameter estimation algorithms to provide updated three-dimensional volume localization information. Differently from any existing algorithms, the analytical nature of the figaro reconstruction allows a ranking of the entries of galaxy catalogues by their probability of being the host of a gravitational wave event, hence providing an additional tool for a prompt electromagnetic follow up of gravitational waves. We illustrate the features of figaro on binary black holes as well as on GW170817. Finally, we demonstrate the robustness of figaro by producing so-called pp-plots and we present a method based on information entropy to assess when, during the parameter estimation run, it is reasonable to begin releasing skymaps.
Sirtuin Evolution at the Dawn of Animal Life
Authors: Gold David A , Sinclair David A
Published: September 2022

Sirtuins are a family of proteins that protect against cellular injury and aging; understanding their evolution should reveal fundamental mechanisms governing longevity. “Early-branching” animals such as sea sponges and jellyfish have been understudied in previous analyses of sirtuin diversity. These organisms not only hold important positions at the base of the evolutionary tree, but also have unique aging dynamics that defy convention, such as quasi-immortality and high regenerative capacity. In this study, we survey the evolution of sirtuin proteins in animals, with a focus on the oldest living lineages. We describe previously unrecognized expansions of “Class IV” and “Class I” sirtuins around the origin of animals, raising the number of sirtuin families in the last common ancestor to at least nine. Most of these undescribed sirtuins have been lost in vertebrates and other bilaterian animals. Our work also clarifies the evolution of PNC1 and NAMPT enzymes that carry out the rate-limiting step in sirtuin-related NAD+ biosynthesis. The genes for PNC1 and NAMPT enzymes were both present in the first animals, with the genes being lost a minimum of 11 and 13 times, respectively, over the course of animal evolution. We propose that species with these ancestral gene repertoires are ideal model organisms for studying the genetic regulation of animal longevity and will provide clues to increasing longevity in humans.
Follicle isolation methods reveal plasticity of granulosa cell steroidogenic capacity during mouse in vitro follicle growth
Authors: Babayev Elnur , Xu Min , Shea Lonnie D , Woodruff Teresa K , Duncan Francesca E
Published: September 2022

Follicles are the functional unit of the ovary and several methods have been developed to grow follicles ex vivo, which recapitulate key events of oogenesis and folliculogenesis. Enzymatic digestion protocols are often used to increase the yield of follicles from the ovary. However, the impact of these protocols on the outermost theca and granulosa cells, and thereby follicle function, is not well defined. To investigate the impact of enzymatic digestion on follicle function, we collected preantral follicles from CD1 mice either by enzymatic digestion (Enzy-FL) or mechanical isolation (Mech-FL) and compared follicle growth, steroidogenesis and cell differentiation within an encapsulated in vitro follicle growth system which maintains the 3D architecture of the oocyte and its surrounding somatic cells. Follicles were encapsulated in 0.5% alginate and cultured for 8 days. Compared with Enzy-FL, Mech-FL grew more rapidly and produced significantly higher levels of androstenedione, estradiol and progesterone. The expression of theca-interstitial cell marker genes, Cyp17a1, which encodes 17-hydroxylase/17, 20-lyase and catalyzes the hydroxylation of pregnenolone and progesterone to 17-hydroxypregnenolone and 17-hydroxyprogesterone, and the conversion of these products into dehydroepiandrosterone and androstenedione, and Star, which encodes a transport protein essential for cholesterol entry into mitochondria, were also higher in Mech-FL than in Enzy-FL. Mech-FL maintained an intact theca-interstitial layer on the outer edge of the follicle that phenocopied in vivo patterns as confirmed by alkaline phosphatase staining, whereas theca-interstitial cells were absent from Enzy-FL from the onset of culture. Therefore, preservation of the theca cell layer at the onset of culture better supports follicle growth and function. Interestingly, granulosa cells in the outermost layers of Enzy-FL expressed CYP17A1 by Day 4 of culture while maintaining inhibin α-subunit expression and a cuboidal nucleus. Thus, in the absence of theca-interstitial cells, granulosa cells have the potential to differentiate into androgen-producing cells. This work may have implications for human follicle culture, where enzymatic isolation is required owing to the density of the ovarian cortex.
The Australia Smoking and Vaping Model: The Potential Impact of Increasing Access to Nicotine Vaping Products
Authors: Levy David T , Gartner Coral , Liber Alex C , Sánchez-Romero Luz Maria , Yuan Zhe , Li Yameng , Cummings K Michael , Borland Ron
Published: September 2022

Background

We model the potential impact of relaxing current nicotine vaping product (NVP) restrictions on public health in Australia.

Aims and Methods

A Restricted NVP Scenario was first developed to project current smoking and vaping rates, where a U.S. smoking model was calibrated to recent Australian trends. To model less restrictive NVP policies, a Permissive NVP Scenario applied rates of switching from smoking to vaping, initiation into NVP and cigarette use, and cessation from smoking and vaping based on U.S. trends. The model measures vaping risk relative to the excess mortality rate of smoking. The public health impacts are measured as the difference between smoking- and vaping-attributable deaths (SVADs) and life years lost (LYLs) in the Restricted and Permissive NVP Scenarios. Sensitivity analysis is conducted regarding the NVP excess risk and other factors.

Results

Assuming an NVP excess risk of 5% that of smoking, 104.2 thousand SVADs (7.7% reduction) and 2.05 million LYLs (17.3% reduction) are averted during 2017–2080 in the Permissive NVP Scenario compared to the Restricted NVP Scenario. Assuming 40% NVP excess risk, 70 thousand SVADs and 1.2 million LYLs are averted. The impact is sensitive to the rate at which smokers switch to NVPs and quit smoking, and relatively insensitive to the smoking initiation and NVP initiation and cessation rates.

Conclusions

The model suggests the potential for public health gains to be achieved by relaxing NVP access regulations. However, the model would benefit from better information regarding the impact of NVPs on smoking under a relaxation of current restrictions.

Implications

Australia has implemented a strong array of cigarette-oriented policies, but has restricted access to NVPs. The Smoking and Vaping Model offers a framework for modeling hypothetical policy scenarios. The Australian model shows the potential for public health gains by maintaining cigarette-oriented policies while relaxing the current restrictive NVP policy. Modeling results under a permissive NVP policy are particularly sensitive to the estimated rates of smoking cessation and switching to vaping, which are not well established and will likely depend on past and future cigarette-oriented policies and the specific NVP policies implemented in Australia.
Prognostic Awareness and Discussions of Incurability in Patients with Pretreated Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer and Caregivers: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Hasegawa Takaaki , Okuyama Toru , Uemura Takehiro , Matsuda Yoshinobu , Otani Hiroyuki , Shimizu Junichi , Horio Yoshitsugu , Watanabe Naohiro , Yamaguchi Teppei , Fukuda Satoshi , Oguri Tetsuya , Maeno Ken , Tamiya Akihiro , Nosaki Kaname , Fukumitsu Kensuke , Akechi Tatsuo
Published: September 2022

Background

Although patients with advanced cancer often have poor prognostic awareness, the most effective communication approach for improving prognostic awareness is unclear. In addition, the association between prognostic awareness and preferences for future medical treatment remains unexplored.

Materials and Methods

We performed a prospective observational study of consecutive patients with advanced or post-operative recurrent non-small cell lung cancer whose disease had progressed after first–line chemotherapy, and their caregivers. We evaluated patterns of clinical discussions about incurability, prognostic awareness, and preference for future medical treatment at baseline and 3 months later.

Results

We obtained 200 valid responses to the questionnaires at baseline and 147 valid responses 3 months later. In addition, 180 caregivers returned valid responses. A total of 54% of patients and 51% of caregivers had accurate awareness at baseline, and 52% of patients had accurate awareness 3 months later. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that patients who were informed about incurability in recent and past discussions were significantly more likely to have accurate awareness 3 months later, compared with those who were only informed recently (adjusted odds ratio 5.08; 95% CI, 1.31-19.78; P = .019). Accurate awareness at 3 months was significantly negatively associated with preference for life-prolonging treatment at 3 months after adjusting for covariates (adjusted odds ratio 0.39; 95% CI, 0.17-0.90; P = .028).

Conclusion

Patients with advanced cancer who had both recent and past discussions about incurability with their oncologists have more accurate prognostic awareness. Improving prognostic awareness could reduce the preference for life-prolonging treatment.
Safety of Scrambler Therapy: A Systematic Review of Complications and Adverse Effects
Authors: Wang Eric J , Limerick Gerard , D’Souza Ryan S , Lobner Katie , Williams Kayode A , Cohen Steven P , Smith Thomas J
Published: September 2022

Objective

The objective was to qualitatively synthesize all reported cases of complications, adverse effects, side effects, or harms arising from the use of scrambler therapy (ST).

Methods and Design

A systematic review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines. The PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, United States National Library of Medicine clinical trials registry, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases were searched from database inception to December 10, 2021. Case reports/series, abstracts, retrospective studies, and prospective studies (e.g., open-label trials, randomized controlled trials) pertaining to ST and any description of a complication, adverse effect, side effect, or harm were screened. The search protocol was developed a priori and registered via the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO ID: CRD42021291838).

Results

A total of six RCTs, 19 prospective open-label trials, and 11 case series / case reports met the inclusion criteria, comprising 1,152 total patients. Two patients experienced contact dermatitis, and one patient reported minor ecchymosis that resolved without intervention. This yielded a composite complication rate of 0.26% (3/1,152). There were zero reported serious adverse events.

Conclusions

When used in accordance with the treatment protocols described by the United States Food and Drug Administration and device manual, ST is associated with a reported composite complication rate that is orders of magnitude lower than those of invasive neuromodulation devices. ST neuromodulation is a safe alternative for patients who cannot undergo invasive neuromodulation device implantation because of either risk or preference.
Differential pulse oximetry readings between ethnic groups and delayed transfer to intensive care units
Authors: Crooks C J , West J , Morling J R , Simmonds M , Juurlink I , Briggs S , Cruickshank S , Hammond-Pears S , Shaw D , Card T R , Fogarty A W
Published: September 2022

Background

Pulse oximeters are widely used to monitor blood oxygen saturations, although concerns exist that they are less accurate in individuals with pigmented skin.

Aims

This study aimed to determine if patients with pigmented skin were more severely unwell at the period of transfer to intensive care units (ICUs) than individuals with White skin.

Methods

Using data from a large teaching hospital, measures of clinical severity at the time of transfer of patients with COVID-19 infection to ICUs were assessed, and how this varied by ethnic group.

Results

Data were available on 748 adults. Median pulse oximetry demonstrated similar oxygen saturations at the time of transfer to ICUs (Kruskal–Wallis test, P = 0.51), although median oxygen saturation measurements from arterial blood gases at this time demonstrated lower oxygen saturations in patients classified as Indian/Pakistani ethnicity (91.6%) and Black/Mixed ethnicity (93.0%), compared to those classified as a White ethnicity (94.4%, Kruskal–Wallis test, P = 0.005). There were significant differences in mean respiratory rates in these patients (P < 0.0001), ranging from 26 breaths/min in individuals with White ethnicity to 30 breaths/min for those classified as Indian/Pakistani ethnicity and 31 for those who were classified as Black/Mixed ethnicity.

Conclusions

These data are consistent with the hypothesis that differential measurement error for pulse oximeter readings negatively impact on the escalation of clinical care in individuals from other than White ethnic groups. This has implications for healthcare in Africa and South-East Asia and may contribute to differences in health outcomes across ethnic groups globally.