bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Constraints on the history of Galactic spiral arms revealed by Gaia GSP-Spec α-elements
Authors: Barbillon M. , Recio-Blanco A. , Poggio E. , Palicio P. A. , Spitoni E. , de Laverny P. , Cescutti G. 
Published: November 2024

Context. The distribution of chemical elements in the Galactic disc can reveal fundamental clues on the physical processes that led to the current configuration of our Galaxy.
Aims. We aim to map chemical azimuthal variations in the Galactic disc using individual stellar chemical abundances, such as those of calcium and magnesium, and we discuss their possible connection with the spiral arms and other perturbing mechanisms.
Methods. Taking advantage of Gaia Data Release 3, we mapped [Ca/Fe] and [Mg/Fe] fluctuations in a region of about 4 kpc around the Sun using different samples of bright giant stars. We implemented a kernel density estimator technique to enhance the chemical inhomogeneities.
Results. We observed clear radial gradients and azimuthal fluctuations in the maps of α elements with respect to iron abundances for young (⪅150 Myr) and old (⪆2 Gyr) stellar populations, whose amplitudes depend on the considered chemical species. In the young population, stars within the spiral arms (mostly the Sagittarius-Carina arm and the upper part of the Local arm) are globally more metal-rich and calcium-rich (~0–0.19 dex) but more [Ca/Fe]-poor (~0.06 dex) and [Mg/Fe]-poor (~0.05 dex) than the stars in the inter-arm regions. This indicates higher enhancements in iron than in α elements within the spiral arms. This depletion in [α/Fe] is discussed in the context of different theoretical scenarios, and we compare it quantitatively to a 2D chemical evolution model that accounts for multiple spiral arm patterns. Interestingly, the [Ca/Fe] maps of the old population sample present clear deficiencies along a segment of the Local arm as traced by young populations. We caution that for this old sample, the quality of the obtained maps might be limited along a specific line of sight by the impact of the Gaia scanning law.
Conclusions. Our understanding of the chemical evolution of the disc changes from a simplistic 1D radial view to a more complete 2D perspective that combines radial and azimuthal trends and small-scale variations. This study has confirmed the importance of using individual chemical diagnostics as tracers of the spiral arms in disc galaxies. We suggest that the observed α-abundances should be accounted for by models and simulations when the spiral arm lifetimes are addresed.
A simplified approach for reproducing fully relativistic spectra in X-ray binary systems: Application to Cygnus X-1
Authors: Papavasileiou Th. V. , Kosmas O. , Kosmas T. S. 
Published: November 2024

Context. General relativistic effects are strong near the black hole of an X-ray binary and significantly impact the total energy released in the innermost accretion disk’s region. The simple pseudo-Newtonian solution in the standard disk model cannot replenish for effects such as light-bending, gravitational redshift, and Doppler boost. These can heavily affect the observed spectra depending on the rotation of the black hole and the disk’s inclination.
Aims. A proper relativistic treatment would be troublesome, unappealing, or require more advanced computational tools (e.g., the kerrbb code). Our goal is to fully incorporate the black hole’s spin and all the general relativistic effects on the observed spectra coming from X-ray binary systems while maintaining the simplicity of the standard Shakura-Sunyaev disk model.
Methods. We propose a way to replicate general relativistic spectra as predicted by the Novikov-Thorne model and the kerrbb numerical code by assuming a standard accretion disk with a shifted inner boundary that depends on the black hole spin and the source’s viewing angle. An essential aspect in employing this approach for a broader range of disk inclinations is the derivation of spin-dependent temperature profiles for the accretion disk, obtained from some of the most efficient pseudo-Newtonian potentials around Kerr black holes. We then applied this method to Cygnus X-1, fitting the observational data obtained during its soft and hard spectral states.
Results. The fully relativistic spectra are reproduced to an excellent approximation, with an error margin of 0.03–4%, by a standard disk model with a modified innermost radius within the range Rin = (0.2 − 2)RISCO, depending on the source’s viewing angle and black hole spin. This approach produces observed spectra as predicted by general relativity without the need for the ray-tracing method and complex numerical calculations. Thus, it emerges as a more straightforward alternative way of estimating black hole spins through the continuum-fitting method by successfully blending the general relativity properties with the Newtonian simplicity in a more complete way than the pseudo-Newtonian solutions. Relativistic effects near the black hole make an otherwise standard accretion disk with inclination θ < 60° seem truncated to larger radii to a distant observer. On the other hand, an edge-on view of the disk gives the perspective of being pulled closer to the central object than the respective innermost radius of the stable circular orbit. In addition, we show that the observational data of Cygnus X-1 can be satisfactorily fitted by employing a reasonably simple lepto-hadronic jet model and a hybrid thermal–nonthermal corona along with the relativistic-equivalent standard thin accretion disk.
Black hole-black hole mergers with and without an electromagnetic counterpart
Authors: Kummer F. , Toonen S. , Dorozsmai A. , Grishin E. , de Koter A. 
Published: November 2024

Context. Triple stars are prevalent within the population of observed stars. Their evolution compared to binary systems is notably more complex and is influenced by unique dynamical, tidal, and mass transfer processes inherent in higher order multiples. Understanding these phenomena is essential for comprehensive insight into multistar evolution and the formation of energetic transients, including gravitational wave (GW) mergers.
Aims. Our study aims to probe the evolution of triple star systems when the tertiary component fills its Roche lobe and transfers mass to the inner binary. Specifically, we focus on the impact of tertiary mass transfer on the evolution of the inner orbit and investigate whether it could lead to the formation of GW sources with distinct properties.
Methods. To achieve this, we developed an analytical model that describes the evolution of the inner and outer orbits of hierarchical triples undergoing stable mass transfer from the tertiary component. We have publicly released this model as a python package on Zenodo. Utilising population synthesis simulations, we investigated triples with a Roche-lobe filling tertiary star and an inner binary black hole (BBH). These systems stem from inner binaries experiencing chemically homogeneous evolution (CHE). Our analysis encompasses two distinct populations with metallicities of Z = 0.005 and Z = 0.0005, focusing on primary components in the inner binary with initial masses ranging from 20–100 M⊙ and inner and outer orbital separations of up to 40 R⊙ and 105 R⊙, respectively, targeting the parameter space where chemically homogeneous evolution is anticipated.
Results. Our results indicate that for the systems we studied, the mass transfer phase predominantly leads to orbital shrinkage of the inner binary and evolution towards non-zero eccentricities and is accompanied by an expansion of the outer orbit. In the systems where the inner binary components evolve in a chemically homogeneous manner, 9.5% result in mass transfer from the tertiary onto an inner BBH. Within this subset, we predict a high formation efficiency of GW mergers ranging from 85.1–100% at Z = 0.005 and 100% at Z = 0.0005 with short delay times, partly attributable to the mass transfer phase. Owing to the rarity of triples with a CHE inner binary in the stellar population, we project local merger rates in the range of 0.69–1.74 Gpc−3 yr−1. Of the prospected BBH mergers that enter the LISA and aLIGO frequency band due to GW emission, a fraction is still accreting gas from the tertiary star. This could produce a strong electromagnetic (EM) counterpart to the GW source and maintain high eccentricities as the system enters the frequency range detectable by GW detectors. The occurrence of EM signals accompanying mergers varies significantly depending on model assumptions, with fractions ranging from less than 0.03% to as high as 46.8% of all mergers if the formation of a circumbinary disc is allowed.
Near-Earth stream decoherence revisited: the limits of orbital similarity
Authors: Shober P. M. , Courtot A. , Vaubaillon J. 
Published: November 2024

Context. Orbital similarity measures, such as the D values, have been extensively used in meteor science to identify meteoroid streams and associate meteorite falls with near-Earth objects (NEOs). However, the chaotic nature of near-Earth space challenges the long-term reliability of these measures for stream identification, and the increasing size of our fireball, meteorite fall, and NEO databases make random associations more common. Despite this, many researchers erroneously continue to use orbital similarity beyond its inherent limits.
Aims. We aim to assess the statistical significance of using orbital similarity measures for identifying streams of meteoroids or asteroids and explore the implications of chaotic dynamics on the long-term coherence of these streams.
Methods. We employed a kernel density estimation (KDE) based method to evaluate the statistical significance of orbital similarities within different datasets. Additionally, we conducted a Lyapunov characteristic lifetime analysis and simulated 300 fictitious meteoroid streams to estimate the decoherence lifetimes in near-Earth space. The orbital similarity was determined using the DSH, D′, and DH orbital similarity discriminants. Clustering analysis relied on a density-based spatial clustering of applications with noise (DBSCAN) algorithm.
Results. Our analysis found no statistically significant streams within the meteorite fall, fireball, or USG impact datasets, with orbital similarities consistent with random associations. Conversely, 12 statistically significant clusters were identified within the NEO population, likely resulting from tidal disruption events. The Lyapunov lifetime analysis revealed short characteristic lifetimes (60–200 years) for orbits in near-Earth space, emphasizing the rapid divergence of initially similar orbits. Meteoroid stream decoherence lifetimes ranged from 104 to 105 years, aligning with previous studies and underscoring the transient nature of such streams.
Conclusions. The rapid decoherence of meteoroid streams and the chaotic dynamics of near-Earth orbits suggest that no reported stream or NEO associations of meteorites or fireballs are statistically significant according to orbital similarity functions. Many are likely coincidental rather than indicative of a true physical link. However, several statistically significant clusters found within the NEO population are consistent with a tidal disruption formation. This contrast and lack of statistically significant associations amongst the impact datasets is likely due to the fireball databases being 2 orders of magnitude smaller than the NEO database and the higher intrinsic uncertainties of fireball observation derived orbits.
Free Fasciocutaneous versus Muscle Flaps in Lower Extremity Reconstruction: Implications for Functionality and Quality of Life
Authors: List Emile B. , Hahn Brett A. , Qiu Shan S. , de Jong Tim , Rakhorst Hinne A. , Verheul Elfi M. , Maarse Wiesje , Coert J. Henk , Krijgh David D. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Background Free tissue transplantations are commonly used to treat complex lower extremity defects caused by trauma, vascular disease, or malignancy, particularly when vital structures are exposed. This study aimed to expand the knowledge on patient-reported outcomes by comparing fasciocutaneous and muscle flaps, with the goal of facilitating patient counseling. Additionally, patient-level risk factors associated with decreased functioning and health-related quality of life were identified.
Methods This retrospective, cross-sectional, multicenter study included patients who underwent microsurgical lower extremity reconstruction using free fasciocutaneous or muscle flaps between 2003 and 2021, with a minimum follow-up of 12 months. Data were collected from medical records, pain scores, Short-Form 36 (SF-36), and Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS). Mean scores were compared between flap types and predictors of LEFS, SF-36 mental component summary (MCS), and SF-36 physical component summary (PCS) scores were determined using a backward stepwise regression model.
Results Of the 206 patients eligible, 100 (49%) were included in the retrospective part. A total of 89 (43%) responded to the questionnaires, with 62 treated using a fasciocutaneous flap and 27 with a muscle flap. No significant differences in total LEFS, SF-36 PCS, or MCS scores were found between the two flap type. Pain was a significant predictor of decreased functional outcomes for both flap types and was also linked to poorer mental health in patients treated with fasciocutaneous flaps. Other predictors of low patient-reported outcome scores included obesity, diabetes, poorer mental health, and a follow-up of less than 2 years.
Conclusion Patients treated with fasciocutaneous and muscle flaps experience comparable levels of functionality and quality of life after surgery. Flap selection should be based on defect characteristics, along with the surgeon's individual skills and preferences. A comprehensive approach that considers physical comorbidities, pain, and mental health is essential, as these factors significantly impact patient functionality and quality of life.
Bedside Utilization of Intestinal Pathology in Preterm Infants with Surgical Necrotizing Enterocolitis
Authors: Garg Padma P. , Weis Victoria G. , Shenberger Jeffrey , Weis Jared A. , McDonald Anna , Garg Parvesh M. 
Published: November 2024

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is one of the most common conditions requiring emergency surgery in the neonatal intensive care unit and is associated with multiorgan dysfunction, multiple systemic morbidities, and mortality. The resected bowel commonly shows evidence of coagulative necrosis, inflammation, interstitial hemorrhages, and reparative changes on the pathology examination. The severity of these pathological abnormalities may correlate with the disease's severity and pace of progression and may assist in the prediction of clinical outcomes. This review presents current evidence about the clinical utility of intestinal pathology in bedside decision-making, accurate diagnosing, prediction of outcomes, and the prognostication of preterm infants with surgical NEC. Developing refined and validated noninvasive methods to diagnose the extent of bowel injury and monitoring tissue repair throughout disease progression is paramount to mitigate the long-term morbidities in preterm infants with surgical NEC. Improved imaging methods such as targeted bowel ultrasound capable of assessing the inflammation and necrosis in real time will greatly advance care and provide focus for the temporal framework of surgical interventions.
Key Points
Novel submucosal injection material comprising fully synthetic and self-assembling peptide solution in endoscopic submucosal dissection: A pilot study
Authors: Kasuga Kengo , Sato Keigo , Nakata Ko , Tanaka Hirohito , Hosaka Hiroko , Kuribayashi Shiko , Takeuchi Yoji , Uraoka Toshio 
Published: November 2024

AbstractEndoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) requires an injection solution to create a submucosal cushion for safe endoscopic resection. This study evaluated the safety and feasibility of a new injection solution (PuraLift) in ESD for early-stage gastrointestinal tumors. This prospective, single-arm, single-center pilot study included 11 patients with gastrointestinal neoplasms of the stomach (n = 5) or colorectum (n = 6) who underwent ESD. All patients underwent outpatient follow-up at week 4 to confirm presence or absence of adverse events (AEs). All underwent protocol treatment and post-treatment follow-up. None of the AEs were judged to have a cause-and-effect relationship with the study. Questionnaires to the operators who performed the protocol treatment and assistants who performed submucosal injections were evaluated in comparison with saline, and maintenance of mucosal lifting was long, comparable, and short (9/2/0). En bloc and R0 resections were achieved in all patients without intraprocedural AEs. Median size of the specimens was 40 mm (range, 20–70). Median excision time was 52 minutes (range, 22–130). Median volume of PuraLift was 32 mL (range, 22–130). No postoperative bleeding or delayed perforation was observed in any patient. The novel injectable material, PuraLift, can potentially ensure safe and feasible ESD.
Technical outcomes between a drill dilator and ultra-tapered mechanical dilator during EUS-guided pancreaticogastrostomy: Comparative study
Authors: Ogura Takeshi , Ueno Saori , Okuda Atsushi , Nishioka Nobu , Sakamoto Jun , Matsuno Jun , Uba Yuki , Tomita Mitsuki , Hattori Nobuhiro , Nakamura Junichi , Bessho Kimi , Nishikawa Hiroki 
Published: November 2024

AbstractEndoscopic ultrasound-guided pancreaticogastrostomy (EUS-PGS) is performed for patients who have failed ERCP. Tract dilation is one of the challenging procedural steps during EUS-PGS. Recently, a bougie dilator, the drill dilator, has become available. With this device, tract dilation can be easily performed without pushback of the echoendoscope, allowing stable scope positioning to be achieved during tract dilation. However, comparative studies between ultra-tapered mechanical and drill dilators have not been reported. The aim of this study was to compare the technical outcomes of these dilation devices.Symptomatic patients with main pancreatic duct (MPD) strictures from January 2021 to November 2023 were included in this retrospective study. The technical success rate of tract dilation was first evaluated. Overall technical success rate, procedure time, and adverse events were evaluated as secondary outcomes.The technical success rate of initial device insertion into the MPD was higher with the Tornus ES (100%, 12/12) compared with the ES dilator (60%, 9/15) (P=0.013). Additional tract dilation rate to deploy the stent was needed in 86.7% (13/15) in the ES dilator group, and 8.3% (1/12) in the Tornus group (P=0.001) and the overall technical success rate in the Tornus ES group was 100% (12/12). Mean procedure time was shorter in the Tornus ES group (13.38±3.80 min) compared with the ES dilator group (21.40±1.54 min) (P=0.0013).In conclusion, Tornus ES might be considered as the initial dilation device during EUS-PGS.
Anal Sphincter Reconstruction Using the Posterior Sagittal Approach for Pediatric Perineal Trauma
Authors: Ryan Julia Ann , Xu Thomas O. , Ho Christina , Varda Briony K. , Gomez-Lobo Veronica , Mayhew Allison , Teeple Erin , Badillo Andrea , Feng Christina , Levitt Marc A. 
Published: November 2024

AbstractTraumatic perineal injuries are rare but can result in significant morbidity, particularly when the anal sphincter is injured. The management of such injuries in the pediatric population is rarely noted in the literature. We aimed to describe reconstruction in such patients using lessons learned in reoperative anorectal malformation surgery. This is a single-institution retrospective case series of three pediatric patients who were referred to our institution with pelvic trauma who underwent anal sphincter reconstruction. Three patients aged 5 (female), 12 (male), and 13 (female) years were referred for reconstruction following pelvic trauma involving the anal sphincter, perineal body, and genitourinary system. All three underwent multidisciplinary evaluation with urology and gynecology (for females) and a subsequent repair with anal sphincter reconstruction utilizing a posterior sagittal approach. Two patients had ostomy reversal with appendicostomy for antegrade continence enemas and regained voluntary fecal control. The third patient is awaiting colostomy reversal but has regained volitional urinary control after urethral reconstruction. The experience gained from using the posterior sagittal anorectoplasty approach in reoperations for patients with anorectal malformations can be applied to cases of rectal trauma. Key aspects include mobilizing the rectum, repairing the sphincters, and placing them around the anus, and in females, reconstructing the perineal body. Pediatric pelvic trauma can cause devastating disruptions of physiology and are difficult to treat. Experience from reoperations for anorectal malformations can be applied to these cases, including the use of a multidisciplinary team and posterior sagittal approach.
Endovascular Approach to Concurrent Anterior Cranial Fossa Dural AVF and Concurrent Flow-Related Ophthalmic Artery Aneurysm: A Case Study
Authors: Jha Vikas Chandra , Jain Rahul , Sinha Vivek Saran , Kumar Nitish , Verma Gaurav , Jha Sangam 
Published: November 2024

AbstractDural arteriovenous fistulas (DAVFs) with concurrent flow-related ophthalmic artery aneurysms, particularly intraorbital aneurysms, are rare. Retrograde cortical blood flow and sinus thrombosis heighten the risk of rupture and optic nerve compression, yet treatment strategies remain poorly defined. This study aims to explore effective management for these complex cases. A 66-year-old hypertensive man presented with an acute severe headache, loss of consciousness, and decreased vision in the left eye. Imaging revealed a left frontal intracranial hemorrhage and an anterior cranial fossa DAVF with a left ophthalmic artery aneurysm. Endovascular embolization via the left ophthalmic artery, using a microcatheter distal to the aneurysm and controlled reflux of glue injection (N-butyl cyanoacrylate and lipiodol), successfully treated the DAVF and ophthalmic artery aneurysm. Visual acuity improved to finger counting at 1 foot, with no residual DAVF at 6 months. This case demonstrates that controlled glue embolization is a viable alternative when microsurgery is not feasible due to complex anatomy.