bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carrier proteins boost expression of PR-39-derived peptide in Pichia pastoris
Authors: Liu Minzhi , Xiao Yao , Yang Yan , Zhou Sihan , Shen Xin , Zhang Youxi , Wang Wei
Published: December 2023

Aims

Multidrug resistance presents difficulties in preventing and treating bacterial infections. Proline-rich antimicrobial peptides (PrAMPs) inhibit bacterial growth by affecting the intracellular targets rather than by permeabilizing the membrane. The aim of this study was to develop a yeast-based fusion carrier system using calmodulin (CaM) and xylanase (XynCDBFV) as two carriers to express the model PrAMP PR-39-derived peptide (PR-39-DP) in Pichia pastoris.

Methods and results

Fusion protein secreted into the culture supernatant was purified in a one-step on-column digestion using human rhinovirus 3C protease, obtaining the target peptide PR-39-DP. The growth curves of Escherichia coli were monitored by recording the OD600 values of the bacteria. The antibacterial activity of PR-39-DP was evaluated in killing assays performed on E. coli. The yield of PR-39-DP was 1.0–1.2 mg l−1 in the CaM fusion carrier system, approximately three times that of the XynCDBFV fusion carrier system. The minimal inhibitory concentration of PR-39-DP was ∼10.5 µg ml−1.

Conclusions

CaM and XynCDBFV provide increased stability and promote the expression and secretion of active PR-39-DP.
Microvascular density and vasculogenic mimicry the predictive signatures of prognosis and therapeutic response in gliomas—a systematic review and meta-analysis protocol
Authors: Kyaruzi Victor M , Mduma Emmanuel , Darko Kwadwo , Ibekwe Jonas L , Kajogoo Violet D , Kamabu Larrey K , Eltingary Mazin M , Emhemed Marwa S A , Daniel Jeremiah O I , Sikakulya Franck , Yousif Zobidah Y E , Foka Tcheutchoua K , Mwakigonja Amos
Published: December 2023

Malignant gliomas are the most angiogenic aggressive tumours with high proliferative and invasion phenotypes. Total microvessel density, the combination of the microvascular density and the vasculogenic mimicry status, is a biomarker closely associated with the aggressiveness of a tumour including its invasive and metastatic potential. This review aims to investigate the relationship between vasculogenic mimicry and microvascular density, and its association with prognosis and therapeutic response in gliomas across the available randomized clinical trials (RCTs) and cross-sectional studies to optimize the strength of evidence for underpinning the strategy for treating tumours. We will conduct the Systematic and Meta-analysis by employing the provisions of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) 2020 guideline and the review protocol will be submitted to International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) for registration before commencement of the study. We will construct the search strategy using a combination of ‘glioma’, ‘microvascular density’, ‘vasculogenic mimicry’, ‘prognostic significance’ and ‘therapeutic response’ from the four databases (Scopus, EMBASE, PubMed and Cochrane Library). This review will be conducted without the involvement of human participants, making ethical clearance approval inapplicable. The protocol for this review will be duly registered with the PROSPERO registry. The final report of this review will be shared at scientific conferences, both locally and internationally, and the protocol and final results will be published in a reputable Neurosurgery journal.
Dust formation in common envelope binary interaction – I: 3D simulations using the Bowen approximation
Authors: González-Bolívar Miguel , De Marco Orsola , Bermúdez-Bustamante Luis C , Siess Lionel , Price Daniel J
Published: December 2023

We carried out 3D smoothed particle hydrodynamics simulations of the common envelope binary interaction using the approximation of Bowen to calculate the dust opacity in order to investigate the resulting dust-driven accelerations. We have simulated two types of binary star: a 1.7 and a 3.7 M⊙ thermally pulsating, asymptotic giant branch stars with a 0.6 M⊙ companion. We carried out simulations using both an ideal gas and a tabulated equations of state, with the latter considering the recombination energy of the envelope. We found that the dust-driven wind leads to a relatively small increase in the unbound gas, with the effect being smaller for the tabulated equation of state simulations. Dust acceleration does contribute to envelope expansion with only a slightly elongated morphology, if we believe the results from the tabulated equation of state as more reliable. The Bowen opacities in the outer envelopes of the two models, at late times, are large enough that the photosphere of the post-in spiral object is about ten times larger compared to the same without accounting for the dust opacities. As such, the prediction of the appearance of the transient would change substantially if dust is included.
Post-transcriptional regulation shapes the transcriptome of quiescent budding yeast
Authors: Greenlaw Alison C , Alavattam Kris G , Tsukiyama Toshio
Published: December 2023

To facilitate long-term survival, cells must exit the cell cycle and enter quiescence, a reversible non-replicative state. Budding yeast cells reprogram their gene expression during quiescence entry to silence transcription, but how the nascent transcriptome changes in quiescence is unknown. By investigating the nascent transcriptome, we identified over a thousand noncoding RNAs in quiescent and G1 yeast cells, and found noncoding transcription represented a larger portion of the quiescent transcriptome than in G1. Additionally, both mRNA and ncRNA are subject to increased post-transcriptional regulation in quiescence compared to G1. We found that, in quiescence, the nuclear exosome-NNS pathway suppresses over one thousand mRNAs, in addition to canonical noncoding RNAs. RNA sequencing through quiescent entry revealed two distinct time points at which the nuclear exosome controls the abundance of mRNAs involved in protein production, cellular organization, and metabolism, thereby facilitating efficient quiescence entry. Our work identified a previously unknown key biological role for the nuclear exosome-NNS pathway in mRNA regulation and uncovered a novel layer of gene-expression control in quiescence.
Strategies to obtain highly ordered deuterated ices presented on the example of ice XIV
Authors: Tonauer Christina M , Hauschild Elisabet , Eisendle Silvia , Fuentes-Landete Violeta , Yamashita Keishiro , Hoffmann Lars , Böhmer Roland , Loerting Thomas
Published: December 2023

Highly ordered deuterated ices have been inaccessible in the past due to the unfavorable slow kinetics. On the example of ice XIV, we introduce three strategies in this study that enhance the degree of order compared with the literature approach of slow cooling. These strategies involve (i) isothermal annealing under pressure, (ii) aging at 77 K, and (iii) introducing isotope defects in addition to the previously used strategy of acid/base doping. We employ the techniques of calorimetry, dielectric relaxation spectroscopy, volumetry, and powder X-ray diffraction to investigate orientational order on the example of the ice XIV–XII order–disorder pair. These strategies allow us to access highly ordered D2O-ice XIV, tripling the degree of order reached in previous work. These strategies can be employed for other ice phases and hold the potential for future discoveries of new forms of ice with distinct material properties.
Pregnant Thinkers
Authors: Kovacs David Mark
Published: December 2023

Do pregnant mothers have foetuses as parts? According to the ‘parthood view’, they do, while according to the ‘containment view’, they don’t. This paper raises a novel puzzle about pregnancy: If mothers have their foetuses as parts, then wherever there is a pregnant mother, there is also a smaller thinking being that has every part of the mother except for those that overlap with the foetus. This problem resembles a familiar overpopulation puzzle from the personal identity literature, known as the ‘Thinking Parts Problem’, but it's not merely a special case of that problem. Rather, the fact that late-term foetuses have a mental life of their own makes the Problem of Pregnant Thinkers, as I will call it, a sui generis and especially recalcitrant problem.
Factors associated with treatment intensification in patients with axial spondyloarthritis and high disease activity in clinical practice
Authors: Webers Casper , Nezam El-Din Rabab , Beckers Esther , Been Marin , Vonkeman Harald E , van Tubergen Astrid
Published: December 2023

Objective

To investigate which factors are associated with treatment intensification (TI) in axial SpA (axSpA) patients with high disease activity (HDA).

Methods

Patients with axSpA and HDA [Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score (ASDAS) ≥2.1] from the Dutch SpA-Net registry were included. TI was defined as: (i) higher dose or shorter interval of the same drug, (ii) switch from current drug to another due to inefficacy or (iii) addition of a new drug. Only anti-inflammatory drugs were considered. Primary determinants considered were ASDAS, Assessment of SpondyloArthritis international Society Health Index (ASAS HI) and physician global assessment (PhGA). Acceptable symptom state according to patient (PASS-patient) or physician (PASS-physician) were included in sensitivity analyses. Patient-centred and physician-centred logistic regression models were used to investigate the association between potential determinants and TI.

Results

In total, 121 patients with HDA were included. TI was conducted in a minority (41/121, 33.9%), and mainly involved a switch or addition of a drug. In multivariable regression analyses, a higher ASDAS was associated with TI in the patient-centred model [odds ratio (OR)ASDAS = 1.94 (95% CI 1.00–3.74)]. However, in the physician-centred model, this association attenuated, and PhGA or PASS-physician were the primary factors associated with TI [ORPhGA = 1.71 (1.24–2.34); ORPASS-physician = 94.95]. Interestingly, patient-centred factors (ASAS HI/PASS-patient/education level) did not contribute to TI.

Conclusion

In practice, treatment is intensified in a minority of axSpA patients with HDA. Physician-centred factors are associated with the decision to change treatment, independently of disease activity or patient perspective. Further research is needed to better understand these decisions.
Systemic lupus erythematosus patients have unique changes in serum metabolic profiles across age associated with cardiometabolic risk
Authors: Jury Elizabeth C , Peng Junjie , Van Vijfeijken Alexandra , Martin Gutierrez Lucia , Woodridge Laurel , Wincup Chris , Pineda-Torra Ines , Ciurtin Coziana , Robinson George A
Published: December 2023

Objectives

Cardiovascular disease through accelerated atherosclerosis is a leading cause of mortality for patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), likely due to increased chronic inflammation and cardiometabolic defects over age. We investigated age-associated changes in metabolomic profiles of SLE patients and healthy controls (HCs).

Methods

Serum NMR metabolomic profiles from female SLE patients (n = 164, age = 14–76) and HCs (n = 123, age = 13–72) were assessed across age by linear regression and by age group between patients/HCs (Group 1, age ≤ 25, n = 62/46; Group 2, age = 26–49, n = 50/46; Group 3, age ≥ 50, n = 52/31) using multiple t tests. The impact of inflammation, disease activity and treatments were assessed, and UK Biobank disease-wide association analysis of metabolites was performed.

Results

Age-specific metabolomic profiles were identified in SLE patients vs HCs, including reduced amino acids (Group 1), increased very-low-density lipoproteins (Group 2), and increased low-density lipoproteins (Group 3). Twenty-five metabolites were significantly altered in all SLE age groups, dominated by decreased atheroprotective high-density lipoprotein (HDL) subsets, HDL-bound apolipoprotein (Apo)A1 and increased glycoprotein acetyls (GlycA). Furthermore, ApoA1 and GlycA were differentially associated with disease activity and serological measures, as well as atherosclerosis incidence and myocardial infarction mortality risk through disease-wide association. Separately, glycolysis pathway metabolites (acetone/citrate/creatinine/glycerol/lactate/pyruvate) uniquely increased with age in SLE, significantly influenced by prednisolone (increased pyruvate/lactate) and hydroxychloroquine (decreased citrate/creatinine) treatment and associated with type 1 and type 2 diabetes by disease-wide association.

Conclusions

Increasing HDL (ApoA1) levels through therapeutic/nutritional intervention, whilst maintaining low disease activity, in SLE patients from a young age could improve cardiometabolic disease outcomes. Biomarkers from the glycolytic pathway could indicate adverse metabolic effects of current therapies.
Effects of sources and routes of administration of vitamins A, D and copper on postnatal status of these micronutrients in piglets
Authors: Galiot Lucie , Audet Isabelle , Ouattara Bazoumana , Lo Verso Luca , Bissonnette Nathalie , Guy Bertrand , Litta Gilberto , Talbot Guylaine , Lessard Martin , Lapointe Jérôme , Guay Frédéric , Matte Jean Jacques
Published: December 2023

Twenty-six nulliparous sows were fed conventional gestation and lactation diets supplemented (N = 13) or not (N = 13) with extra daily supplements of 25-hydroxy-cholecalciferol (25-OH-D3; 4 ĸIU), β-carotene (24 ĸIU), and copper (Cu)-proteinate (45 mg) from day 90 of gestation to 21 d of lactation (L21). In each litter, 10 piglets were divided into 5 pairs received, at 2 (L2) and 8 d (L8) of age, one of the five combinations of micronutrient sources and routes of administration (N = 260 piglets total). These neonatal treatments (N = 26 pairs or 52 piglets each) consisted of oral vitamin D3, retinol acetate and CuSO4 (T1); oral 25-OH-D3, β-carotene, and Cu proteinate (T2); exposure to ultraviolet light (UVB), oral retinol palmitate and Cu gluconate (T3); intramuscular vitamin D3 and retinyl propionate and oral Cu acetate (T4); oral saline (CTRL). Oral or intramuscular provisions corresponded to 12 mg of Cu and 70 and 12 ĸIU of vitamins A and D, respectively. Blood samples were collected from all piglets at L2, L8, and L21 for determination of serum Cu, retinol, and 25-OH-D3. Body weight was measured at birth, L2, L8, and L21. Piglets were weaned at L21, and liver and blood samples were collected 2 d later to evaluate oxidative enzymes in blood and liver and hepatic ATP concentrations and expression of genes associated with antioxidant status. Sow treatments had marginal or no impacts on Cu, retinol, 25-OH-D3, or antioxidant status in piglet blood serum and liver. However, when supplements were given to piglets, hepatic Cu was 38% greater in for all treated piglets compared to CTRL (P < 0.01), hepatic retinol was 3 times higher in T1 than in CTRL (P < 0.01) and intermediate for other treatments whereas serum 25-OH-D3 was markedly increased with T2 and T3 at L8 and L21, respectively, compared to CTRL (Piglet treatment × Age interaction, P < 0.01). Concerning antioxidant activities, glutathione peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase were increased (P < 0.03) in plasma of T2 piglets whereas the highest values (P < 0.03) for indicators of oxidative damage to proteins were observed in T4 piglets. The study revealed that oral Cu proteinate from T2, oral retinol acetate from T1, oral 25-hydroxy-cholecalciferol from T2, and UVB light exposure from T3 were the most efficient ways of increasing the postnatal status of these micronutrients in suckling piglets and this may have some impacts on their peri-weaning antioxidant status.
Analysis of poor prognostic factors for septic arthritis of the hip in children: a case series of 76 patients
Authors: Feng Wei , Wang Qiang , Yao Ziming , Zhu Danjiang , Song Baojian , Zhang Xuejun
Published: December 2023

The clinical characteristics, treatment and outcomes of children with septic arthritis of the hip in our hospital were analyzed to identify the risk factors for a poor prognosis. The clinical data of 76 children with septic arthritis of the hip who were treated at our hospital from January 2010 to December 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. According to the most recent follow-up data, the patients were classified as good prognosis or poor prognosis. The differences between the two groups were analyzed. From January 2010 to December 2020, a total of 76 children with septic arthritis of the hip were admitted to our hospital, comprising 52 (68.4%) with a good prognosis and 24 (31.6%) with a poor prognosis. The risk of a poor prognosis was significantly higher in the group with time from onset to surgery >22 days than in the group with time from onset to surgery <11 days. The risk of poor prognosis in the group with C-reactive protein (CRP) > 100 mg/L was significantly higher than that in the group with CRP < 20 mg/L. Time from onset to surgery >14 days and CRP > 93 mg/L were the cutoff values for a poor prognosis. Significant elevation of CRP and prolonged time from onset to surgery in children with septic arthritis of the hip are risk factors for a poor prognosis. Early diagnosis and effective treatment are very important because delays in these factors can lead to a poor prognosis. Level of Evidence: Level II, retrospective study.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Nursing Education
Authors: Mulkey David , Fetter Katherine
Published: December 2023

Nurse educators must prepare graduates who advance diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) across healthcare to decrease health disparities among diverse populations. Defining DEI and reflecting on personal implicit bias can help nurse educators intentionally integrate DEI throughout the nursing curriculum. This article explores DEI in the Bible and examines the Christian educator's role in promoting classroom diversity, providing equitable support for all students, and developing strategies for inclusive teaching. Addressing DEI from a biblical viewpoint can give nursing students the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to impact the well-being of all patients.
Drug-Induced Parotitis—A Rarity?
Authors: Kumar Sweatha , Devarajan Vidya , Sivaramakrishnan Ramya , Kalyanasundaram Srinivasan , P.K Purushothaman , Raj Rufus Vasanth
Published: December 2023

Unilateral parotitis is due to ductal obstruction. Bilateral parotitis occurs due to viral infections such as mumps, bacterial infections, Sjögren syndrome, and ductal obstruction. Drug-induced parotitis is a relatively uncommon adverse reaction, and it can be unilateral and bilateral. Unilateral causes of drug-induced parotitis can be due to clozapine, chlorpromazine, l-asparaginase, and α-methyldopa, whereas bilateral causes can be due to thioridazine, sulfadiazine, phenylbutazone, oxyphenylbutazone, nitrofurantoin, and valproic acid. Adverse reactions to sulfonamide are rare and manifest as rashes or urticaria. Herein, we report a case of acute unilateral parotitis occurring as a result of cotrimoxazole that resolved within 48 hours after discontinuation of therapy, which highlights that sulfonamide therapy can cause parotitis. Early clinical suspicion and discontinuation of therapy help in the prompt resolution of the allergic reaction to cotrimoxazole.
A scientometrics analysis of physical activity and transcranial stimulation research
Authors: Denche-Zamorano Angel , Mayordomo-Pinilla Noelia , Barrios-Fernandez Sabina , Luis-del Campo Vicente , Gómez-Paniagua Santiago , Rojo-Ramos Jorge , Castillo-Paredes Antonio , Muñoz-Bermejo Laura
Published: December 2023

Background:

The search for alternatives to improve physical performance is rising, and in recent years has been focused on the brain. No bibliometric study analyzing research on physical activity (PA) and transcranial stimulation has been found in the scientific literature. Aims: To provide an overview of the existing scientific research on PA and transcranial brain stimulation in healthy and sports participants, using a bibliometric analysis and graphic mapping of the references in the field. To do this, we analyze annual publication trends in this area, identifying the most productive and cited authors, journals and countries with the highest number of publications, and the most cited documents and keywords.

Methods:

Those publications related to this area, published in journals indexed in the web of science main collection were retrieved and analyzed using the traditional laws of bibliometrics.

Results:

A total of 305 documents were found. Annual publications followed an exponential growth trend (R2 = 94.2%); with A. J. Pearce (9 documents) is the most productive coauthor and M.C. Ridding, H. Theoret and M. Lassonde as the most prominent (with 5 most cited papers). The USA (67 papers) and the journal Frontiers in Human Neuroscience (12 papers) were the most productive country and journal respectively. The paper “Action anticipation and motor resonance in elite basketball players” was the most cited paper and “transcranial magnetic stimulation” was the most used keyword.

Conclusion:

There are extensive research networks throughout the world, with the USA leading the production. Publications on the issue are of high interest in the scientific community as an exponential increase in publications over the last few years was found. The contribution of these findings is to offer a complete picture of the relationship between PA and transcranial brain stimulation in healthy individuals and athletes. Therefore, this comprehensive analysis provides fruitful information for sports researchers and policymakers to make future correct decisions about how to better design and implement training interventions in these groups of individuals.
Immunosenescence and cancer: Opportunities and challenges
Authors: Fu Zhibin , Xu Hailong , Yue Lanping , Zheng Weiwei , Pan Linkang , Gao Fangyi , Liu Xingshan
Published: December 2023

As individuals age, cancer becomes increasingly common. This continually rising risk can be attributed to various interconnected factors that influence the body’s susceptibility to cancer. Among these factors, the accumulation of senescent cells in tissues and the subsequent decline in immune cell function and proliferative potential are collectively referred to as immunosenescence. Reduced T-cell production, changes in secretory phenotypes, increased glycolysis, and the generation of reactive oxygen species are characteristics of immunosenescence that contribute to cancer susceptibility. In the tumor microenvironment, senescent immune cells may promote the growth and spread of tumors through multiple pathways, thereby affecting the effectiveness of immunotherapy. In recent years, immunosenescence has gained increasing attention due to its critical role in tumor development. However, our understanding of how immunosenescence specifically impacts cancer immunotherapy remains limited, primarily due to the underrepresentation of elderly patients in clinical trials. Furthermore, there are several age-related intervention methods, including metformin and rapamycin, which involve genetic and pharmaceutical approaches. This article aims to elucidate the defining characteristics of immunosenescence and its impact on malignant tumors and immunotherapy. We particularly focus on the future directions of cancer treatment, exploring the complex interplay between immunosenescence, cancer, and potential interventions.
Nursing care of patients with relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma treated with B-cell mature antigen-targeted universal chimeric antigen receptor T cells
Authors: Dai Ying , Tang Fang , Mao Yanqin , He Na , Yu Meimei , Zhang Mengjiao , Gu Sumei , Lu Yin , Shang Jingjing , Zhu Xiamin
Published: December 2023

To investigate the efficacy of a nursing approach using B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA)-targeted universal chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (BCMA-UCART) immunotherapy in the treatment of 8 patients with relapsed refractory multiple myeloma (MM). In this study, 16 patients with relapsed and refractory MM who were treated with BCMA-targeted UCART in our department from May 2020 to November 2022 were selected, and were divided into a control group and an experimental group of 8 cases each according to the difference in the nursing methods, and the control group adopted the conventional universal nursing program. The experimental group used the nursing protocol that cooperated with the immunotherapy of this study, and the main points of nursing care included timely assessment of organ functional status, safe and accurate infusion of BCMA-UCART, identification and management of hyperthermia, hypotension, arrhythmia and central nervous system adverse reactions caused by cytokine release after BCMA-UCART infusion, as well as management of fluid imbalance, maintenance of stable blood pressure, and cooperation with physicians to effectively control of inflammatory factors. In addition, patients were provided with psychological and dietary support. The duration of hospitalization was compared between the two groups after the intervention. The discharge time of the experimental group was significantly shorter than that of the control group (P he.05), and the experimental group effectively controlled cytokine release syndrome, immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome and acute graft-versus-host disease. The nursing program with BCMA-UCART immunotherapy is effective in intervening MM patients and promotes their early recovery and discharge from the hospital.
Investigating the influence of primary uterine tumor site on pelvic and para-aortic lymph node metastatic pattern and evaluating the risk factors for lymph node metastases in endometrial carcinoma: A retrospective study
Authors: Zhang Xiao , Chen Saihua , Li Guangxiao , Zheng Limei , Shang Shanliang , Li Jianqiong , Guan Xiaojing , Yang Jianhua
Published: December 2023

To assess the metastatic pattern in pelvic and para-aortic lymph nodes in relation with the primary uterine tumor site and to evaluate risk factors for lymph node metastases. 212 patients with endometrial cancer who underwent surgical treatment from December 2014 to December 2019 were selected. The clinical and pathological data were retrospectively analyzed. The factors and uterine primary tumor site related to lymph node metastasis were analyzed by univariate and multivariate analysis. Among the 212 patients with endometrial cancer, 17 cases had lymph node metastasis, and thus the metastasis rate was 8.02%. Univariate analysis revealed that lymph node metastasis was significantly correlated with Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stage, depth of myometrial invasion, tumor size, pathological grade, and lymphovascular space invasion (P < .05) and was not correlated with age, pathological type, and cervical involvement (P > .05). Primary uterine tumor site (fundus, horns, body or lower uterine segment) with or without cervical involvement was associated with different lymph nodes’ metastatic sites. The lymph node metastatic pathways of endometrial cancer mainly include obturator lymph nodes and para-aortic lymph nodes, and skip metastasis may occur; endometrial carcinoma may jump and metastasize to para-aortic lymph nodes, specially when the lesion is located in the uterine fundus and uterine horns (cornua of uterus); there is a significant correlation between the location of lymph node metastasis and the location of primary uterine malignant tumor.
Laparoscopic treatment of colonic endometriosis causing periodic abdominal pain and hematochezia: A case report
Authors: Zhang Shiting , Jiang Xuelu , Mao Peiyu
Published: December 2023

Rationale:

Endometriosis, a benign disease, has a malignant biological behavior and is highly prone to recurrence. Although gastrointestinal involvement is the most common site for extra-genital endometriosis, deep infiltrative endometriosis, which affects the mucosal layer, is very rare.

Patient concerns:

A 44-year-old woman with a 6-month history of recurring abdominal pain and Hematochezia. The patient visited several hospitals over the past six months and was suspected to have been diagnosed with a digestive disease, for which medication was ineffective, leading to a great deal of anxiety.

Diagnoses:

Colonic endometriosis.

Interventions:

After a thorough imaging evaluation and preoperative discussion, laparoscopic colonic endometriosis resection under indocyanine green indication was performed by gynecologists and gastroenterologists.

Outcomes:

After laparoscopic treatment, the patient's symptoms improved significantly, with occasional pain felt and no blood in the stool.

Lessons:

This case provides a rare example of sigmoid endometriosis causing periodic abdominal pain and Hematochezia. We report a clinical case to investigate the feasibility of an indocyanine green fluorescent contrast technique to guide the scope of surgery in laparoscopic deep infiltrative endometriosis surgery. In intestinal endometriosis surgery, indocyanine green fluoroscopy may indicate the lesion's precise localization.
A review on nondiabetic hypoglycemia from various causes: Case series report
Authors: Gan Lulu , Zhu Xuan , Gao Yue , Zhong Mingyao , Liao Shibo , Huang Gao , Yan Yimin
Published: December 2023

Rationale:

Hypoglycemia is common in patients with glucose regulation disorders and related diabetic treatments but is rare in nondiabetic patients. Severe hypoglycemia can cause harm to patients’ cognition, consciousness, central nervous system, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular system, and even death. However, the most fundamental way to control hypoglycemia is to identify the cause and deal with the primary disease. This article introduces 3 cases of nondiabetic hypoglycemia with different causes, aiming to improve our understanding of nondiabetic hypoglycemia and improve the ability of early diagnosis and differential diagnosis.

Patient concerns:

Case 1 is a 19-year-old female with a history of recurrent coma, and magnetic resonance imaging and endoscopic ultrasound of the pancreas suggest insulinoma. Case 2 is a 74-year-old male with a history of viral hepatitis, and computerized tomography shows multiple nodules in the liver, which is diagnosed as liver cancer. Case 3 is a 39-year-old female with a history of taking methimazole, who tested positive for insulin antibodies, and was diagnosed with insulin autoimmune syndrome.

Diagnosis:

All 3 patients were diagnosed with nondiabetic hypoglycemia, but the causes varied, and included insulinoma, non-islet cell tumor-induced hypoglycemia, and insulin autoimmune syndrome.

Interventions:

Case 1 underwent pancreatic tail resection; case 2 refused anti-tumor treatment and received glucose injections for palliative treatment only; and case 3 stopped taking methimazole.

Outcomes:

After surgery, the blood sugar in case 1 returned to normal, and the blood sugar in case 2 was maintained at about 6.0 mmol/L. The symptoms of hypoglycemia gradually improved in case 3 after stopping the medication.

Lessons:

Non-diabetic hypoglycemia requires further examination to clarify the cause, and the correct differential diagnosis can provide timely and effective treatment, improving the patient’s prognosis.
Intense 18F-PSMA-1007 Uptake of Splenic Hemangioma
Authors: Jia Guorong , Dong Aisheng , Cheng Chao , Zuo Changjing
Published: December 2023

A 77-year-old man was referred for 18F-PSMA-1007 PET/CT scan for initial staging of biopsy-proved prostate adenocarcinoma. 18F-PSMA-1007 PET/CT showed focal intense 18F-PSMA-1007 of the prostate adenocarcinoma and a focal intense activity (SUVmax, 27) in the spleen. The 18F-PSMA-1007–avid splenic lesion corresponded to a splenic hemangioma, which was initially detected on contrast-enhanced CT 7 months ago and unchanged in size and enhancement pattern on follow-up contrast-enhanced CT. This case indicates that splenic hemangioma should be included in the differential diagnosis of PSMA-avid splenic lesions.
Impulse Oscillometry Versus Spirometry to Detect Bronchiolitis Obliterans Syndrome in Bilateral Lung Transplant Recipients: A Prospective Diagnostic Study
Authors: Crowhurst Thomas D. , Butler Jessica A. , Bussell Lauren A. , Johnston Sonya D. , Yeung David , Hodge Greg , Snell Greg I. , Yeo Aeneas , Holmes Mark , Holmes-Liew Chien-Li
Published: December 2023

Background.

Chronic lung allograft dysfunction (CLAD), and especially bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome (BOS), remain dominant causes of morbidity and mortality after lung transplantation. Interest is growing in the forced oscillation technique, of which impulse oscillometry (IOS) is a form, as a tool to improve our understanding of these disorders. However, data remain limited and no longitudinal studies have been published, meaning there is no information regarding any capacity IOS may have for the early detection of CLAD.

Methods.

We conducted a prospective longitudinal study enrolling a consecutive sample of adult bilateral lung transplant recipients with healthy lung allografts or CLAD and performed ongoing paired IOS and spirometry tests on a clinically determined basis. We assessed for correlations between IOS and spirometry and examined any predictive value either modality may hold for the early detection of BOS.

Results.

We enrolled 91 patients and conducted testing for 43 mo, collecting 558 analyzable paired IOS and spirometry tests, with a median of 9 tests per subject (interquartile range, 5–12) and a median testing interval of 92 d (interquartile range, 62–161). Statistically significant moderate-to-strong correlations were demonstrated between all IOS parameters and spirometry, except resistance at 20 Hz, which is a proximal airway measure. No predictive value for the early detection of BOS was found for IOS or spirometry.

Conclusions.

This study presents the first longitudinal data from IOS after lung transplantation and adds considerably to the growing literature, showing unequivocal correlations with spirometry but failing to demonstrate a predictive value for BOS.
A wide dynamic range diamond quantum sensor as an electric vehicle battery monitor
Authors: Hatano Yuji , Tanigawa Junya , Nakazono Akimichi , Sekiguchi Takeharu , Onoda Shinobu , Ohshima Takeshi , Iwasaki Takayuki , Hatano Mutsuko
Published: December 2023

To demonstrate the application capability of the diamond quantum sensor as an electric vehicle (EV) battery monitor, we (i) investigated the measurable current in a real car noise level and (ii) compared the linearity with conventional sensors. Consequently, (i) we could measure a 20 mA current pulse even under an external magnetic field of 80 µT, which is larger than that of 50 µT around the EV battery module in a real car during driving. The 20 mA pulse measurement corresponds to the EV battery state of charge estimation accuracy of 0.2% in the standard driving pattern, which is smaller than the present level of 10%. (ii) The linearity degradation seen in the Hall sensor near the upper limit of the measurement range was not seen in the diamond sensor. Although the Hall sensor and the shunt resistor showed linearity degradation in the current range of several tens of amperes or less, the degradation was smaller for the diamond sensor. The transverse magnetic field effect in the diamond sensor on the linearity was estimated to be less than 0.01% for a several-degree misalignment of the sensor surface to the magnetic field direction and under a 340 A current.

This article is part of the Theo Murphy meeting issue 'Diamond for quantum applications'.
Nitrogen concentration control during diamond growth for NV
−
centre formation
Authors: Teraji T. , Shinei C. , Masuyama Y. , Miyakawa M. , Taniguchi T.
Published: December 2023

Negatively charged nitrogen-vacancy (NV
−
) centres formed in diamond crystals are point defects that have potential applications in various quantum devices such as highly sensitive magnetic sensors. To improve the sensitivity of magnetic sensors using NV
−
centres, it is essential to precisely control the nitrogen concentration in the crystals. In this paper, we demonstrated that nitrogen concentration in diamond can be controlled with high precision for the following two representative growth methods. One is the high-pressure/high-temperature (HPHT) synthesis method and the other is the chemical vapour deposition (CVD) method. The nitrogen concentration of HPHT-grown diamond decreased semi-logarithmically with increasing contents of titanium or aluminium as nitrogen getter materials. The nitrogen concentration of CVD-grown diamond increased linearly with increasing the flow rate ratio of nitrogen to carbon. NV
−
centres were formed by controlling the total fluence of electron beams so that approximately 20% of the nitrogen became NV
−
centres. The coherence time of electron spin of NV
−
centres obtained by the Hahn-echo pulse sequence
T
2
of these diamond crystals was inversely proportional to the nitrogen concentration. A comparison of
T
2
of the NV
−
centres for HPHT-synthesized and CVD-grown diamonds showed no significant difference between them.

This article is part of the Theo Murphy meeting issue ‘Diamond for quantum applications’.
A special issue preface: diamond for quantum applications
Authors: Nicley Shannon S. , Morley Gavin W. , Haenen Ken
Published: December 2023

This special issue discusses current progress in the utilization of defect centres in diamond as spin–photon interfaces for quantum applications. This issue is based on the discussions of the Theo Murphy meeting ‘Diamond for quantum applications' which covered the recent progress of diamond growth and engineering for the creation and optimization of colour centres, toward the integration of diamond-based qubits in quantum systems.

This article is part of the Theo Murphy meeting issue 'Diamond for quantum applications'.
Narrowband photoluminescence of Tin-Vacancy colour centres in Sn-doped chemical vapour deposition diamond microcrystals
Authors: Sedov Vadim , Martyanov Artem , Neliubov Arthur , Tiazhelov Ivan , Savin Sergey , Eremchev Ivan , Eremchev Maksim , Pavlenko Margarita , Mandal Soumen , Ralchenko Victor , Naumov Andrei
Published: December 2023

Tin-Vacancy (Sn-V) colour centres in diamond have a spin coherence time in the millisecond range at temperatures of 2 K, so they are promising to be used in diamond-based quantum optical devices. However, the incorporation of large Sn atoms into a dense diamond lattice is a non-trivial problem. The objective of our work is to use microwave plasma-assisted chemical vapour deposition (CVD) to grow Sn-doped diamond with submicron SnO
2
particles as a solid-state source of impurity. Well-faceted diamond microcrystals with sizes of a few micrometres were formed on AlN substrates. The photoluminescence (PL) signal with zero-phonon line (ZPL) peak for Sn-V centre at ≈620 nm was measured at room temperature (RT) and at 7 K. The peak width (full width at half-maximum) was measured to be 1.1–1.7 nm at RT and ≈0.05 nm at 7 K. The observed variations of ZPL shape and position, in particular, narrowing of PL peak at RT and formation of single-line fine structure at low-
T
, are attributed to strain in the crystallites. The diamond doping with Sn via CVD process offers a new route to from Sn-V colour centre in the bulk of the diamond crystallites.

This article is part of the Theo Murphy meeting issue 'Diamond for quantum applications'.
Mixture modelling of Bordetella pertussis serology samples to evaluate anti-pertussis toxin immunoglobulin G titre thresholds for positivity: England 2008–2022
Authors: Tessier Elise , Litt David , Ribeiro Sonia , Abdul Aziz Nurin , Campbell Helen , Amirthalingam Gayatri , Fry Norman K. , Andrews Nick
Published: December 2023

Introduction. Antibody testing for evidence of a recent

Bordetella pertussis

infection by estimating anti-pertussis toxin immunoglobulin G (anti-PT-IgG) titres by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays is often recommended for those with a cough lasting more than 14 days. Interpreting results varies, with studies recommending different anti-PT-IgG titre thresholds for assigning positivity. In England, early work looking at antibody titre distributions for samples submitted from April 2010 to July 2012 found an optimal threshold of greater than 70 IU ml−1 for good sensitivity, specificity and positive predictive value.

Aim. The aim of this study is to use the same mixture modelling technique to determine if the 70 IU ml−1 threshold remains appropriate when assessing data before, during and after the outbreak of pertussis in 2011–2012.

Methods. We reviewed titres for all serology-tested samples in England between 1 July 2008 to 30 June 2022. IgG titres were used to calculate the positivity based on the current threshold of 70 IU ml−1, the median duration of cough for individuals who tested positive and, through mixture modelling, the sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values (PPV and NPV) of assay thresholds.

Results. Positivity rates increased from 21.7 % prior to the outbreak to 30.3 % during the outbreak and dropped to 25.1 % post-outbreak; similar to estimates from the mixture model of 20.5, 33.3 and 28.7 %, respectively. Although the estimated sensitivity dropped during and after the outbreak when applying the 70 IU ml−1 threshold, the PPV remained high and therefore no change to this threshold is warranted.

Conclusion. Mixture modelling is a useful tool to establish thresholds, but reassessment should also be done when there have been changes to prevalence and/or testing regimes to determine whether there have been any changes in sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV and whether the threshold should be revised.
Predicting Fractures Using Vertebral 18F-NaF Uptake in Prostate Cancer Patients
Authors: Chesnais Helene , Bastin Nikita , Miguez Sofia , Kargilis Daniel , Kalluri Anita , Terry Ashley , Rajapakse Chamith S.
Published: December 2023

Background: Patients with prostate cancer tend to be at heightened risk for fracture due to bone metastases and treatment with androgen-deprivation therapy. Bone mineral density (BMD) derived from dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) is the standard for determining fracture risk in this population. However, BMD often fails to predict many osteoporotic fractures. Patients with prostate cancer also undergo 18F-sodium fluoride (18F-NaF)-positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) to monitor metastases. The purpose of this study was to assess whether bone deposition, assessed by 18F-NaF uptake in 18F-NaF PET/CT, could predict incident fractures better than DXA- or CT-derived BMD in patients with prostate cancer.Methods: This study included 105 males with prostate cancer who had undergone full body 18F-NaF PET/CT. Standardized uptake value (SUVmean and SUVmax) and CT-derived Hounsfield units (HU), a correlate of BMD, were recorded for each vertebral body. The average SUVmean, SUVmax, and HU were calculated for cervical, thoracic, lumbar, and sacral areas. The t-test was used to assess significant differences between fracture and no-fracture groups.Results: The SUVmean and SUVmax values for the thoracic area were lower in the fracture group than in the no-fracture group. There was no significant difference in cervical, thoracic, lumbar or sacral HU between the 2 groups.Conclusions: Our study reports that lower PET-derived non-metastatic bone deposition in the thoracic spine is correlated with incidence of fractures in patients with prostate cancer. CT-derived HU, a correlate of DXA-derived BMD, was not predictive of fracture risk. 18F-NaF PET/CT may provide important insight into bone quality and fracture risk.
Ketamine treatment modulates habenular and nucleus accumbens static and dynamic functional connectivity in major depression
Authors: Taraku Brandon , Loureiro Joana R. , Sahib Ashish K. , Zavaliangos-Petropulu Artemis , Al-Sharif Noor , Leaver Amber , Wade Benjamin , Joshi Shantanu , Woods Roger P. , Espinoza Randall , Narr Katherine L.
Published: December 2023

Dysfunctional reward processing in major depressive disorder (MDD) involves functional circuitry of the habenula (Hb) and nucleus accumbens (NAc). Ketamine elicits rapid antidepressant and alleviates anhedonia in MDD. To clarify how ketamine perturbs reward circuitry in MDD, we examined how serial ketamine infusions (SKI) modulate static and dynamic functional connectivity (FC) in Hb and NAc networks. MDD participants (n=58, mean age=40.7 years, female=28) received four ketamine infusions (0.5mg/kg) 2-3 times weekly. Resting-state fMRI scans and clinical assessments were collected at baseline and 24 hours post-SKI completion. Static FC (sFC) and dynamic FC variability (dFCv) were calculated from left and right Hb and NAc seeds to all other brain regions. Paired t-tests examined changes in FC pre-to-post SKI, and correlations were used to determine relationships between FC changes with mood and anhedonia. Following SKI, significant increases in left Hb-bilateral visual cortex FC, decreases in left Hb-left inferior parietal cortex FC, and decreases in left NAc-right cerebellum FC occurred. Decreased dFCv between left Hb and right precuneus and visual cortex, and decreased dFCv between right NAc and right visual cortex both significantly correlated with improvements in Hamilton Depression Rating Scale. Decreased FC between left Hb and bilateral visual/parietal cortices as well as increased FC between left NAc and right visual/parietal cortices both significantly correlated with improvements in anhedonia. Subanesthetic ketamine modulates functional pathways linking the Hb and NAc with visual, parietal, and cerebellar regions. Overlapping effects between Hb and NAc functional systems were associated with ketamine’s therapeutic response.
Gut microbiota profile in CDKL5 deficiency disorder patients as a potential marker of clinical severity
Authors: Borghi Elisa , Xynomilakis Ornella , Ottaviano Emerenziana , Ceccarani Camilla , Viganò Ilaria , Tognini Paola , Vignoli Aglaia
Published: December 2023

CDKL5 deficiency disorder (CDD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by global developmental delay, early-onset seizures, intellectual disability, visual and motor impairments. Unlike Rett Syndrome (RTT), CDD lacks a clear regression period. CDD patients frequently encounter gastrointestinal (GI) disturbances and exhibit signs of subclinical immune dysregulation. However, the underlying causes of these conditions remain elusive. Emerging studies indicate a potential connection between neurological disorders and gut microbiota, an area completely unexplored in CDD. We conducted a pioneering study, analyzing fecal microbiota composition in CDD patients and their healthy relatives. Notably, differences in intestinal bacterial diversity and composition were identified in CDD patients. We further investigated microbiota changes based on the severity of GI issues, seizure frequency, sleep disorders, food intake type, impairment in neuro-behavioral features (assessed through the RTT Behaviour Questionnaire – RSBQ), and ambulation capacity.

Our findings hint at a potential connection between CDD, microbiota, and symptom severity. This study marks the first exploration of the gut-microbiota-brain axis in CDD patients. It adds to the growing body of research emphasizing the role of the gut microbiota in neurodevelopmental disorders and opens doors to potential interventions that target intestinal microbes with the aim of improving the lives of CDD patients.