bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
P1237 Development of an algorithm to identify the best donor-recipient match for FMT in IBD patients based on immune system/microbiota interactions
Authors: Facciotti F , Amoroso C , Strati F , Caridi B , Perillo F , Noviello D , Vecchi M , Caprioli F
Published: January 2024

Background

IBD are characterized by uncontrolled immune responses, in genetically predisposed individuals, to the dysbiotic microbiota. Its modulation has thus emerged as a potential therapeutic strategy . Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) showed encouraging results for the treatment of mild-to-moderate ulcerative colitis (UC) patients. However, currently the success rate of FMT in UC patients is around 30%, and there are no criteria to predict it.

We hypothesized that the immune system-microbiota interaction can dictate which graft will be accepted or rejected. Thus, we generated an algorithm to identify the best donor-recipient match for FMT treatment in IBD patients based on the functional interaction of recipient's immune system with possible donors' microbiota .

Methods

Mucosal and circulating immune cells isolated from 16 active UC patients, potentially eligible for FMT, were exposed to the microbiota of a panel of 8 potential healthy FM donors collected in the FM biobank of the Policlinico Hospital, Milan. The functional profile of recipients' immune cells before and after the in vitro exposure to the possible donors’ microbiota was assessed by cytokine production, gene expression profiling and activatory or inhibitory surface molecules modulation on T cells. Sequencing of the microbiota of each individual FM donor was performed by 16S. These functional data were used to develop an algorithm to identify the best donor-recipient match based on the capability of individual donors’ microbial ecologies to simultaneously reduce the inflammatory functional profile and increase the tolerogenic functional profile of the recipient's immune cells

Results

We demonstrated that mucosal immune cells from UC recipients exhibited a variety of responses upon exposure to the microbiota from distinct healthy donors, which clusters in two different enterotypes. Each UC recipient exhibited specific preferences for one or more FM donor in the reduction of the inflammatory profile of immune cells and concomitantly enhancement of anti-inflammatory cytokines. On te basis of these data we generated an algorithm capable of predicting the most successful functional interaction between donors and recipients.

Conclusion

Our study suggest that specific functional characteristics of both the donor microbiota and the recipient's immune system should be considered when selecting an optimal donor-recipient match for FMT. This study contributes to the development of a screening tool for donor selection in FMT, enabling personalized and effective therapeutic interventions for UC patients
N10 Evaluation of the impact of an IBD nurse in an Inflammatory Bowel Disease Center
Authors: Rachart A , Cluzeau V , Martins C , Hebuterne X , Nicolau A
Published: January 2024

Background

In some European countries, IBD nurse is not a recognized status. IBD nurses are general care nurses who wants to improve their knowledges and get involved in the « Care and Support » of IBD patients. An increasing number of IBD centers are using the services of IBD nurse. The aim of this study was to evaluate prospectively the activity and impact of IBD nurse on the management of IBD patients in an IBD center.

Methods

From March 13th to June 13th, 2023, all patients having interacted with IBD nurse in an expert center, were prospectively recorded. The main points were, the number and characteristics of patients, means and reasons of contact, actions implemented, follow-up and, finally, patient satisfaction assessed using a standardized questionnaire (visual analog scale from 0 to 10).

Results

During three months, 132 patients, 69 women and 63 men (47% Ulcerative Colitis, 52% Crohn's disease and 1% indeterminate colitis), with a median age of 40 years (16 to 87), had contacted the IBD nurse. The means of contact were phone call: n =131 (42%), text messages: n = 25 (8%), e-mail: n = 69 (22%), face-to-face consult: n = 86 (27.5%) and teleconsulting: n = 1 (0.5%).

The reasons for contact were:

Three hundred and twelve contacts had led to 315 actions divided into seven groups:

Over this period, IBD nurse was contacted 22 times by 19 patients for a real or perceived emergency. These situations were managed by a multidisciplinary team, and resulted in reinsurance (68%), referral to others medical specialist (18%) or hospitalization (14%).

Overall satisfaction with the IBD nurse intervention was 10/10 for 78% of patients and 9/10 for 11%. To the question: “do you think that the intervention of the IBD nurse improves disease management?”: 78.5% agreed at 10/10 and 7% at 9/10. To the question: “do you think contact with the IBD nurse improves access to care: 67.5% agreed at 10/10 and 3.5% at 9/10.

The main patients’ advice / reviews to improve care were: to adjust levels of follow-up according to the patient and his/her needs, to strengthen the IBD Nurse coordination team to limited days off, to have explanation sheets and reports of IBD Nurse intervention, to develop more workshops for patients in the Education program.

Conclusion

This pilot study showed the importance of the IBD Nurse activity in an expert center. The patients who benefited from this care were very enthusiastic about it.
N14 The IBD nurse's role in screening for iatrogenic adrenal insufficiency in children with inflammatory bowel disease on discontinuing glucocorticoid therapy
Authors: Chadokufa S N , huggett B
Published: January 2024

Background

With a wide range of medical treatment on offer, ensuring patient safety by monitoring and or preventing side effects is a key part of holistic care.

Glucocorticoids are widely used in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) treatment to induce remission or treat flares. Iatrogenic adrenal insufficiency (AI), due to suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis is an established side effect of exogenous glucocorticoids. Symptoms of AI can range from life-threatening adrenal crisis to more subtle chronic symptoms including fatigue, abdominal pain and diarrhoea. The rate of AI in this population is unknown. There is no standard guidance or recommendations to suggest routine screening of paediatric IBD (pIBD) patients. This study aimed to report our experience on set up a monitoring pathway to manage pIBD patients coming off glucocorticoid therapy(GT).

Methods

A database was created to capture all IBD patients under the age of 18 who had received GT for IBD between March 2022 and July 2023. At the time of starting treatment, predicted last day on GT was identified and patients were booked in for testing serum early morning cortisol (Vitros Ortho Clinical Diagnostics immunoassay) and ACTH. After tapering, patients remained on the lowest dose of GT until results review. Evaluation of the adrenal-axis response was then assessed by a protocol piloted by this study – see figure 1. The patients needing treatment for AI were seen in the Nurse led clinic for prescribing, education and training. The training included IM injection training, sick day training and safety netting. To ensure safe evidence based training, the IBD nurse had received training form the endocrine nurse before the pilot.

Results

Following the initial screening, 9 patients were seen in the clinic with AI ( 8 prednisolone and 1 Budesonide). Of these 9,8 (88%) were followed up by the IBD nurse and 1(11%) was followed up by a local paediatrician with an endocrine interest. Treatment with hydrocortisone was commenced and follow up 3 months blood tests organised.

The school was notified of the risk of Adrenal suppression and emergency kits provided. Repeat adrenal axis testing was offered at 3 months (5 of 9) and 6 months (3 of 9). AI was noted in 3 patients and 2 patients at 3 and 6-month respectively. At the 6 month mark, patients were discharged from the clinic if they had returned to a normal adrenal axis or referred to the endocrine team for further follow up. Patients were discussed in a multi-displinary meeting at every point on the pathway and no child suffered an adrenal crisis during the study period.

Conclusion

AI following GT is common in this small pIBD cohort. The IBD nurse can play a critical role in providing safe care for these patients.
N17 Exploration of medication non-adherence in Inflammatory Bowel Disease patients: A systematic review
Authors: King K , Norton C , Chalder T , Czuber-Dochan W
Published: January 2024

Background

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has recognised medications to maintain remission and prevent relapse. Yet between 53–75% of people with IBD do not take medications as prescribed. Identifying and improving medication adherence in IBD is a primary treatment goal to keep symptoms quiescent.

This systematic review aims to identify why people are adherent and non-adherent to IBD medications.

Methods

Studies exploring medication adherence for IBD conducted between 2012-2022, were identified in six electronic databases.

The quality of quantitative and qualitative studies was assessed using a scoring system or the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme, respectively.

Results

39,603 participants were included across 79 studies investigating IBD medication adherence, mainly from single outpatient clinic populations, using cross-sectional surveys.

Most data were quantitative, rated medium quality. Few studies were based around a theory to explain adherence.

Non-adherence was most typically measured using a version of the Morisky Medication Adherence Scale or the study’s own self-report questionnaire, with non-adherence ranging from 4.3%-88.9%.

In multivariable analysis of quantitative data, younger age and female gender were usually associated with non-adherence. The presence of smoking, psychological issues (depression, treatment concerns, anxiety) or lower social status were also significant non-adherence risk factors. Most typically investigated were clinical variables, many being significantly related with non-adherence, including medication type (specifically 5-ASA), route (oral, rectal, subcutaneous, intravenous), high and low disease activity and poor disease/medication knowledge. Significant results were often contradictory between studies, as was the relationship direction with non-adherence.

Forgetting medication was the main reason for non-adherence in qualitative interviews, with side effects, costs, medication concerns and busy lifestyle also variables.

Cohort-specific factors were reported for non-adherence in pregnant women, adolescents and patients during COVID.Conclusion

Adherence to treatment is essential in IBD. Yet a large and confusing literature exists regarding factors underpinning non-adherence.

Clinicians should be aware of those non-modifiable factors, to help identify relevant patients and support their treatment programme.

Potentially modifiable factors including medication regimes, route and patient knowledge, could be targeted to improve adherence in IBD.

Theoretically informed interventions need to be developed. A successful evidence-based intervention supporting medication adherence could help improve quality of life for patients living with IBD, whilst providing patient-centred care and minimising health costs.
N19 Nurses' difficulties in supporting the sexual well-being of patients with inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Nozawa M , Wakai S , Fourie S , Kawakami A , Tanaka M
Published: January 2024

Background

Sexual well-being is a state of sexual happiness and satisfaction that combines mental stability and physical health as well as builds on mutual caring and intimacy with the partner. Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) undergo distress as they experience dating, marriage, and childbirth while living with the disease. Previous studies have indicated the importance of support related to sexual well-being but have suggested that it is a difficult topic for discussion. Hence, this study sought to clarify nurses' specific difficulties and barriers in supporting the sexual well-being of patients with IBD.

Methods

Nurses who had considerable experience caring for with patients with IBD were recruited using a snowballing method or opportunistic sampling. Semi-structured interviews were conducted via a video meeting system. Some examples of the interview questions include ‘Please tell us about your experience talking with patients about romantic relationships and sexual concerns and ‘Could you tell us about your difficulties in supporting patients with IBD in relation to their sexual concerns?’ We performed a reflexive thematic analysis.

Results

We interviewed 20 participants (Male: 4, Female: 16) in 13 facilities, 2 of which were focus group interviews. The mean length of experience in IBD nursing was 13 years. Three themes were identified as reflecting the difficulties nurses faced in discussing sexual issues with their patients: ‘The nurses' experience and their relationships with patients’, including gender and age barriers and difficulties in building rapport; ‘Assessment of sexual well-being’, including difficulties in broaching the issue and identifying people who needed support; and ‘Education for patients and nurses in supporting sexual well-being’, including lack of materials for patients and lack of opportunities for nurses to learn. Most participants rarely experienced discussions about sexual topics and did not initiate conversations about sexual well-being on their own.

Conclusion

Due to the sensitive topic of sexual issues, the difficulties described by nurses were influenced by the level of rapport with patients, the lack of training on how to handle the topic, and the lack of resources. Our results suggest the need for further research into approaches to reduce nurses' difficulties, while considering the identified barriers and needs related to the sexual well-being of patients with IBD.
N40 Surveying outcomes of service user experience on the effects of the transition process in paediatric IBD (PIBD) patients in a tertiary PIBD centre
Authors: Buckingham R , Chadokufa S , Lashley C , Huggett B , Sawney T , Kiparissi F , Elzien A
Published: January 2024

Background

Background: We conducted a prospective survey with our PIBD patients and parents seeking outcomes in accordance with our ICN- Improve Care Now participation goals to ‘Improve and optimize the care of children and teens with IBD in underserved and underrepresented populations by addressing healthcare disparities’.

Methods

Methods: We sent out a survey to our PIBD patients focusing on their overall satisfaction with the service we deliver in relation to their transition and transfer pathway. We prospectively sent this to our patient cohort of 280 PIBD patients.

Results

Results: 69/280 patients and parents (25%) responded, of whom 53/69 (77%) completed the entire survey. Of those responders 45/53 (85%) were mothers speaking on the behalf of their children aged 5-12 years (n=20 patients). 4/53 (7%) patients completed the survey themselves, of whom 3 (75%) were aged between 12-18 years. When asked about if they understood what will happen when your child moves form paediatric to adult care, 24/53 (45.61%) of patients said they had not been spoken to about transition in the last 12 months. Additionally, the survey asked if the IBD team had spoken to the patients about any worries and concerns they had regarding their transition over the last 12 months, 25/53 (48.21%) responded that they had not been spoken to about this.

Conclusion

Conclusion: Our survey has highlighted the importance of promoting the transition process throughout the patient’s IBD journey. Just under 50% of patients reported that they had not been spoken to about this process, which highlights the improvements needed. This process can be developed by identifying patients earlier and establishing clear transition pathways that must be followed in order to improve effective patient experiences with transition.
N41 Individual with Crohn's Disease Nursing Care According to Neuman Systems Model
Authors: Candan Z , Uçan Ş , Özer Küçük E
Published: January 2024

Background

Individualized care is important in managing chronic diseases such as Crohn's. Nursing models provide integrated nursing care specific to the individual. Neuman Systems Model is a holistic approach and multi-dimensional model that aims to provide a unifying focus for understanding people and their environment, making an organized approach to different nursing problems, and includes all physiological, psychological, sociocultural, spiritual and developmental variables that affect the individual. In this case, nursing care given by an IBD (inflammatory bowel diseases) nurse according to the Neuman Systems Model will be discussed.

Methods

Data were collected by the researcher using the 6-item questionnaire of the Neuman Systems Model by face-to-face interview at the inflammatory bowel diseases outpatient clinic, with written consent from a 20-year-old female patient. Differences in perception of the nurse and the patient were identified. The patient's withdrawal from sports and education due to Crohn's disease is defined as personal stressor, the weakening of social relationships is defined as interpersonal stressor, and the Covid-19 pandemic is defined as impersonal stressor. With the data collected, nursing care was planned for the nursing diagnoses of social isolation, impaired body perception and fatigue. As a result of the applied nursing interventions, it was observed that there was an improvement in the patient's social life, body perception and fatigue level.

Results

This case shows the effect of using the Neuman system model in nursing care given to a Crohn's patient on patient outcomes.

Conclusion

It is recommended to use theories in nursing care.
N44 Implementing Electronic Documentation of a Nurse-Led IBD Advice Line
Authors: Lukose T , Lardner C , O Toole A , Boland K
Published: January 2024

Background

Beaumont Hospital is a tertiary referral centre providing care to over 4500 patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This service offers an IBD nurse telephone advice line per international IBD standards. This was established to allow patients on-demand access to our service, improving the overall quality of care.

Aims/Background

• Time-to-response is recorded for all calls

• Calls and emails are audited every month to ensure

• Local KPIs are met

• Identify potential weakness in service (i.e. access to emergency clinic spots)

• Ensure continued improvement and service evolution

• Track appropriate use of service by patients

Methods

Data was collected by establishing an Excel spreadsheet due to a lack of infrastructure to support a database. The spreadsheet will document the date of the call, date of the return call, patient name, hospital identification number, consultant name, reason for calling, and intervention time spent with each patient. Based on the initial audit of findings, the Patient Satisfaction Survey was distributed (n=110) and recorded.

Patient feedback to identify areas for education and service development

Results

Two thousand six hundred and thirty-three (2,633) calls were received from January 2022 to September 2022. Auditing is performed monthly, identifying areas requiring improvement. Patients are frequently re-educated on how to best engage with our service. Pathways have been established to divert the calls to the appropriate alternative services such as administrators, endoscopy department, infusion services, and GP services, freeing our service for the appropriate calls only—30% of calls related to IBD flares. IBD nurses directly managed 82% of patients with flares. Overall, 75% of calls were managed virtually by an IBD nurse. An online patient satisfaction survey showed that 98% of patients expressed excellent satisfaction with the advice line service.

Conclusion

The precise documentation guided the established lean pathways for prescription renewal and pathways to redirect patients to endoscopy and non-IBD queries. The study results in aids to establishing protocols to limit prescriptions for patients who are non-compliant with blood/visits. It developed written and verbal information for patients on parameters for appropriate service use—education of patients: Modified written and oral patient education. The results of an online patient satisfaction survey showed 98% of patients report satisfaction with “excellent. The precise documentation and measurement of all the calls received facilitates service improvements and locally appropriate patient care. Patient involvement in improvement projects allows improvements to develop with patients at the centre.
ECCO Grant Analysis of the tolerogenic role of the liver in controlling intestinal inflammation
Authors: Kempski Jan Michael
Published: January 2024

Background and Aims

There is a close anatomical connection between the liver and the intestine. This connection is further highlighted by the association between Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC) and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). Interestingly, PSC-associated IBD (PSC/IBD) presents with milder colitis symptoms compared to Crohn's disease and Ulcerative Colitis. We hypothesize that PSC has a protective impact on IBD, which is mediated by Foxp3+ regulatory T cells. This hypothesis is supported by our preliminary data. However, the mechanism by which PSC induces tolerance in the intestine remains unknown and answering this question is the aim of this proposal.

Methods

In Objective 1, we will test the hypothesis that changes in the intestinal microbiota mediate the protective effects of PSC on IBD. We will compare the intestinal microbiota in patients with PSC/IBD and IBD. This analysis will be complemented by functional experiments. Specifically, we aim to engraft germ-free wild type (WT) mice with fecal microbiota from PSC/IBD and IBD patients, as well as from Mdr2-deficient and WT mice. In these mouse models, we will analyze the effect of the microbiota on effector and regulatory T cells and on colitis susceptibility. In Objective 2, we will test whether changes in the composition of bile acids mediate the protective effects of PSC on IBD. To test this, we will deliver specific bile acids identified by us into Il10-deficient mice and analyze their impact on colitis severity and the intestinal T cell repertoire. Moreover, we will decipher how those bile acids impact the intestinal microbiota. Using in vitro assays, we will further test the direct effect of specific bile acids on T cell differentiation.

Anticipated Impact

Finally, our long-term aim is to understand how the liver induces immunological tolerance in the intestine. This knowledge could pave the way for new targeted therapies for inflammatory diseases.
Rice receptor kinase FLR7 regulates rhizosphere oxygen levels and enriches the dominant Anaeromyxobacter that improves submergence tolerance in rice
Authors: Liu Hong-Bin , Sun Hong-Xia , Du Li-Qiong , Jiang Ling-Li , Zhang Lin-An , Qi Yin-Yao , Cai Jun , Yu Feng
Published: January 2024

Oxygen is one of the determinants of root microbiome formation. However, whether plants regulate rhizosphere oxygen levels to affect microbiota composition and the underlying molecular mechanisms remain elusive. The receptor-like kinase (RLK) family member FERONIA modulates the growth–defense tradeoff in Arabidopsis. Here, we established that rice FERONIA-like RLK 7 (FLR7) controls rhizosphere oxygen levels by methylene blue staining, oxygen flux, and potential measurements. The formation of oxygen-transporting aerenchyma in roots is negatively regulated by FLR7. We further characterized the root microbiota of 11 FLR mutants including flr7 and wild-type Nipponbare (Nip) grown in the field by 16S ribosomal RNA gene profiling and demonstrated that the 11 FLRs are involved in regulating rice root microbiome formation. The most abundant anaerobic-dependent genus Anaeromyxobacter in the Nip root microbiota was less abundant in the root microbiota of all these mutants, and this contributed the most to the community differences between most mutants and Nip. Metagenomic sequencing revealed that flr7 increases aerobic respiration and decreases anaerobic respiration in the root microbiome. Finally, we showed that a representative Anaeromyxobacter strain improved submergence tolerance in rice via FLR7. Collectively, our findings indicate that FLR7 mediates changes in rhizosphere oxygen levels and enriches the beneficial dominant genus Anaeromyxobacter and may provide insights for developing plant flood prevention strategies via the use of environment-specific functional soil microorganisms.
The Constructive Black Queen hypothesis: new functions can evolve under conditions favouring gene loss
Authors: Takeuchi Nobuto , Fullmer Matthew S , Maddock Danielle J , Poole Anthony M
Published: January 2024

Duplication is a major route for the emergence of new gene functions. However, the emergence of new gene functions via this route may be reduced in prokaryotes, as redundant genes are often rapidly purged. In lineages with compact, streamlined genomes, it thus appears challenging for novel function to emerge via duplication and divergence. A further pressure contributing to gene loss occurs under Black Queen dynamics, as cheaters that lose the capacity to produce a public good can instead acquire it from neighbouring producers. We propose that Black Queen dynamics can favour the emergence of new function because, under an emerging Black Queen dynamic, there is high gene redundancy spread across a community of interacting cells. Using computational modelling, we demonstrate that new gene functions can emerge under Black Queen dynamics. This result holds even if there is deletion bias due to low duplication rates and selection against redundant gene copies resulting from the high cost associated with carrying a locus. However, when the public good production costs are high, Black Queen dynamics impede the fixation of new functions. Our results expand the mechanisms by which new gene functions can emerge in prokaryotic systems.
The legitimation of international adjudication
Authors: Godzimirska Zuzanna
Published: January 2024

Drawing on insights and methods from International Law, International Relations and Linguistics, the article untangles the discursive legitimation efforts of international adjudicative bodies. Adopting a mixed-methods approach that combines supervised learning methods, corpus methods and Critical Discourse Analysis it analyses the language of legitimation in the jurisprudence of the International Court of Justice and the World Trade Organization’s Appellate Body over a period of 20 years (1996–2016). In so doing, the article cuts across disciplinary divides and offers a novel and empirically informed perspective to ongoing debates on the discursive legitimation of international adjudicative bodies.
Three-dimensional radiation hydrodynamics simulations of wandering intermediate-mass black holes considering the anisotropic radiation and dust sublimation
Authors: Ogata Erika , Ohsuga Ken , Fukushima Hajime , Yajima Hidenobu
Published: January 2024

By performing three-dimensional radiation hydrodynamics simulations, we study Bondi–Hoyle–Lyttleton accretion on to intermediate-mass black holes (BHs) wandering in the dusty gas. Here, we take into account the anisotropic radiation feedback and the sublimation of dust grains. Our simulations show that when the relative velocity between the BH and the gas is small ($\sim 20\rm\, km~s^{-1}$) and gas density is $\sim 10^4 \rm cm^{-3}$, the gas mainly accretes from near the equatorial plane of the accretion disc at a time-averaged rate of 0.6 per cent of the Bondi–Hoyle–Lyttleton rate. An ionized region like two spheres glued together at the equatorial plane is formed, and the dense shock shell appears near the ionization front. The BH is accelerated at $\sim 10^{-8}\, \rm cm~s^{-2}$ due to the gravity of the shell. For denser gas ($\sim 10^6 \rm cm^{-3}$), the time-averaged accretion rate is also 0.6 per cent of the Bondi–Hoyle–Lyttleton rate. However, the BH is decelerated at $\sim 10^{-7}\, \rm cm~s^{-2}$ due to gravity of the dense downstream gas although the dense shock shell appears upstream. Our simulations imply that intermediate-mass BHs in the early universe keep floating at $\gtrsim {\rm several}\, 10\, \rm km~s^{-1}$ without increasing mass in interstellar gas with density of $\sim 10^4\, \rm cm^{-3}$, and slow down and grow into supermassive BHs in galaxies with the density of $\sim 10^6\, \rm cm^{-3}$.
The R-Process Alliance: detailed chemical composition of an r-process enhanced star with UV and optical spectroscopy
Authors: Shah Shivani P , Ezzeddine Rana , Roederer Ian U , Hansen Terese T , Placco Vinicius M , Beers Timothy C , Frebel Anna , Ji Alexander P , Holmbeck Erika M , Marshall Jennifer , Sakari Charli M
Published: January 2024

We present a detailed chemical-abundance analysis of a highly r-process-enhanced (RPE) star, 2MASS J00512646-1053170, using high-resolution spectroscopic observations with Hubble Space Telescope/STIS in the UV and Magellan/MIKE in the optical. We determined abundances for 41 elements in total, including 23 r-process elements and rarely probed species such as Al ii, Ge i, Mo ii, Cd i, Os ii, Pt i, and Au i. We find that [Ge/Fe] = +0.10, which is an unusually high Ge enhancement for such a metal-poor star and indicates contribution from a production mechanism decoupled from that of Fe. We also find that this star has the highest Cd abundance observed for a metal-poor star to date. We find that the dispersion in the Cd abundances of metal-poor stars can be explained by the correlation of Cd i abundances with the stellar parameters of the stars, indicating the presence of NLTE effects. We also report that this star is now only the sixth star with Au abundance determined. This result, along with abundances of Pt and Os, uphold the case for the extension of the universal r-process pattern to the third r-process peak and to Au. This study adds to the sparse but growing number of RPE stars with extensive chemical-abundance inventories and highlights the need for not only more abundance determinations of these rarely probed species, but also advances in theoretical NLTE and astrophysical studies to reliably understand the origin of r-process elements.
Radio pulse profile evolution of magnetar Swift J1818.0−1607
Authors: Fisher R , Butterworth E M , Rajwade K M , Stappers B W , Desvignes G , Karuppusamy R , Kramer M , Liu K , Lyne A G , Mickaliger M B , Shaw B , Weltevrede P
Published: January 2024

The shape and polarization properties of the radio pulse profiles of radio-loud magnetars provide a unique opportunity to investigate their magnetospheric properties. Gaussian process regression analysis was used to investigate the variation in the total intensity shape of the radio pulse profiles of the magnetar Swift J1818.0–1607. The observed profile shape was found to evolve through three modes between MJDs 59104 and 59365. The times at which these transitions occurred coincided with changes in the amplitude of modulations in the spin-down rate. The amount of linear and circular polarization was also found to vary significantly with time. Lomb–Scargle periodogram analysis of the spin-down rate revealed three possibly harmonically related frequencies. This could point to the magnetar experiencing seismic activity. However, no profile features exhibited significant periodicity, suggesting no simple correlations between the profile variability and fluctuations of the spin-down on shorter time-scales within the modes. Overall, this implies that the mode changes seen are a result of local magnetospheric changes, with other theories, such as precession, less able to explain these observations.
Analytic Electrically Charged Black Holes in F(R)-ModMax Theory
Authors: Panah Behzad Eslam
Published: January 2024

Motivated by a new model of nonlinear electrodynamics known as Modified Maxwell (ModMax) theory, an exact analytical solution for black holes is obtained by coupling ModMax nonlinear electrodynamics and F(R) gravity. Then, the effects of the system’s parameters (F(R)-ModMax gravity parameters) on the event horizons are analyzed. The obtained black hole thermodynamic properties in the F(R)-ModMax theory are investigated by extracting their thermodynamic quantities such as Hawking temperature, electric charge, electric potential, entropy, and also total mass. The first law of thermodynamics for the system under study is evaluated. Next, by considering these black holes, the impacts of various parameters on both the local stability and global stability are investigated by examining the heat capacity and the Helmholtz free energy, respectively. Finally, the thermodynamic geometry of the black hole in F(R)-ModMax gravity is investigated by applying the Hendi–Panahiyan–Eslam Panah–Momennia thermodynamic metric (HPEM’s metric).
Theranostic tools against lung and breast cancers: through the lens of mature gold nanoparticles and emerging graphene
Authors: Baskaran Savuntherii , Siew Qi Yan , Tan Michelle T T , Loh Hwei-San
Published: January 2024

Objectives

In recent years, theranostic applications have emerged as promising tools in the fight against lung and breast cancers. This review aims to provide an in-depth exploration of the proof-of-concept theranostic applications of two cutting-edge nanomaterials: gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) and graphene.

Key findings

Nanotechnology plays a revolutionary role in cancer theranostics. AuNPs’ properties include high surface plasmon resonances, advantageous surface-to-volume ratio, remarkable photothermal conversion rates, and distinctive optical characteristics. Whereas graphene boasts high surface areas, optical transparency, and remarkable versatility in surface functionalization. While AuNPs have long been recognized for their theranostic potential, this review spotlights the burgeoning role of graphene as a compelling choice for advancing theranostic applications in oncology with several exemplary studies. In fact, most recent advancements have witnessed the integration of AuNP-graphene nanocomposites in theranostic approaches targeting lung and breast cancers. Yet, there are still many intricate challenges that researchers face in harnessing the full potential of these nanomaterials in theranostics, from synthesis to clinical translation.

This review provides valuable insights into both established and emerging nanomaterials. AuNPs show significant potential for diverse cancer theranostic applications, and graphene is rapidly evolving as a next-generation theranostic platform. The hybrid AuNP-graphene nanocomposite stands out as a promising candidate in the evolving landscape of cancer therapy, offering exciting prospects for future research and development.
Exploring Quality and Requirements in Faculty Development Related to Teaching
Authors: Rudd Mariah , Whicker Shari , Mutcheson R. Brock , Nagler Alisa , Musick David
Published: January 2024

Little is known about medical school requirements for faculty development related to teaching (FDT) in medical education. This study examined the national landscape and local faculty perceptions of their own institution's FDT requirement. An electronic survey was disseminated to Faculty Affairs Offices in US medical schools to assess FDT requirements. A second survey was distributed to faculty within one medical school to gauge faculty perceptions related to existing FDT requirements. Responses were received from approximately 33% of US medical schools and 36% of local faculty. Few responding medical schools had formal FDT requirements. There was a wide range variation of hours and activities necessary to satisfy existing requirements and consequences for noncompliance. For respondents from schools that did not have a requirement, many saw value in considering a future requirement. Many local faculty agreed that the FDT requirement improved their teaching skills. When asked to share other thoughts about the FDT requirement, several qualitative themes emerged. This study helps establish a national benchmark for the status of FDT requirements in medical education and revealed information on how to optimize and/or improve such requirements. The authors offer five recommendations for schools to consider regarding FDT.
Electroacupuncture targeting the immune system to alleviate sepsis
Authors: Fang Mengyue , Lan Yuye , Li Man , Li Chennan , Xu Bin , Ma Yan , Noiprasert Sulukkana , Jing Xianghong , Yu Lingling
Published: January 2024

Sepsis is a life-threatening inflammatory syndrome with high morbidity and mortality rates. However, options for sepsis are still limited to general treatment in intensive care units (ICUs), and effective therapies that improve sepsis survival are required. Immune disturbances play a vital role in the pathology of sepsis and are associated with protracted inflammation, susceptibility to infections, and death. Therefore, many investigators have focused on the potential benefits of immunomodulation therapy for sepsis. Electroacupuncture (EA) has been practiced in clinics for many years and has shown advantages in treating infectious diseases. Over the last few decades, our understanding of the efficacy and mechanisms of EA in sepsis has undergone considerable developments. We searched the literature regarding “CNKI, Wan Fang Data, VIP Database, PubMed, and Ingenta Connect” from 2010 to 2023, using the keywords “sepsis” “septic” and “electroacupuncture” and 336 sources were searched. Finally, we included 82 studies that targeted the immune system to determine EA’s anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects on sepsis. In this review, we found that EA has clinical benefits in relieving septic inflammation, improving immune function, and attenuating related multi-organ injury through several mechanisms, such as activation of the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway (CAP), vagal-adrenal axis, inhibition of the nuclear factor Kappa-B (NF-κB) signaling pathway, signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT) signaling pathway, and improvement of immune cell function. Therefore, EA may be a promising complementary therapy for sepsis treatment. We also expect these data will contribute to further studies on EA in sepsis.
The effect of the size of gold nanoparticle contrast agents on CT imaging of the gastrointestinal tract and inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Rosario-Berríos Derick N. , Pang Amanda , Liu Leening P. , Maidment Portia S. N. , Kim Johoon , Yoon Seokyoung , Nieves Lenitza M. , Mossburg Katherine , Adezio Andrew , Noel Peter , Lennon Elizabeth M. , Cormode David P.
Published: January 2024

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). CT imaging with contrast agents is commonly used for visualizing the gastrointestinal (GI) tract in UC patients. CT is a common imaging modality for evaluating IBD, especially in patients with acute abdominal pain presenting to emergency departments. CT’s major limitation lies in its lack of specificity for imaging UC, as the commonly used agents are not well-suited for inflamed areas. Recent studies gastrointestinal tract (GIT) in UC. Further systemic research is needed to explore novel contrast agents that can specifically image disease processes in this disease setting.
Information-thermodynamic bound on information flow in turbulent cascade
Authors: Tanogami Tomohiro , Araki Ryo
Published: January 2024

We investigate the nature of information flow in turbulence from an information-thermodynamic viewpoint. For the fully developed three-dimensional fluid turbulence described by the fluctuating Navier-Stokes equation, we prove that information of large-scale eddies is transferred to small scales along with the energy cascade. We numerically illustrate our findings using a shell model and further show that in the inertial range, the intensity of the information flow is nearly constant and can be scaled by the large-eddy turnover time. Our numerical results also suggest that the corresponding information-thermodynamic efficiency is quite low compared to other typical information processing systems such as Maxwell's demon. These findings provide another perspective on how universality and intermittency of turbulent fluctuations emerge at small scales.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
N
scaling of large-sample collective decay in inhomogeneous ensembles
Authors: Stryzhenko Sergiy , Bruns Alexander , Peters Thorsten
Published: January 2024

We experimentally study collective decay of an extended disordered ensemble of N atoms inside a hollow-core fiber. We observe up to 300-fold enhanced decay rates, strong optical bursts, and a coherent ringing. Due to inhomogeneities limiting the synchronization of atoms, the data does not show the typical scaling with N. We show that an effective number of collective emitters can be determined to recover the N scaling known to homogeneous ensembles over a large parameter range. This provides physical insight into the limits of collective decay and allows for its optimization in extended ensembles as used, e.g., in quantum optics, precision time-keeping, or waveguide QED.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Hydrogen-bonding interactions in 5-fluorocytosine–urea (2/1), 5-fluorocytosine–5-fluorocytosinium 3,5-dinitrosalicylate–water (2/1/1) and 2-amino-4-chloro-6-methylpyrimidine–6-chloronicotinic acid (1/1)
Authors: Sangavi Marimuthu , Kumaraguru Narayanasamy , Butcher Ray J. , McMillen Colin D.
Published: January 2024

Three new compounds, namely, 5-fluorocytosine–urea (2/1), 2C4H4FN3O·CH4N2O, (I), 5-fluorocytosine–5-fluorocytosinium 3,5-dinitrosalicylate–water (2/1/1), 2C4H4FN3O·C4H5FN3O+·C7H2N2O7
−·H2O, (II), and 2-amino-4-chloro-6-methylpyrimidine–6-chloronicotinic acid (1/1), C6H4ClNO2·C5H6ClN3, (III), have been synthesized and characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. In compound (I), 5-fluorocytosine (5FC) molecules A and B form two different homosynthons [R
2
2(8) ring motif], one formed via N—H...O hydrogen bonds and the second via N—H...N hydrogen bonds. In addition to this interaction, a sequence of fused-ring motifs [R
2
1(6), R
3
3(8), R
2
2(8), R
4
3(10) and R
2
2(8)] are formed, generating a supramolecular ladder-like hydrogen-bonded pattern. In compound (II), 5FC and 5-fluorocytosinium are linked by triple hydrogen bonds, generating two fused-ring motifs [R
2
2(8)]. The neutral 5FC and protonated 5-fluorocytosinum cation form a dimeric synthon [R
2
2(8) ring motif] via N—H...O and N—H...N hydrogen bonds. On either side of the dimeric synthon, the neutral 5FC, 5-fluorocytosinium cation, 3,5-dinitrosalicylate anion and water molecule are hydrogen bonded through N—H...O, N—H...N, N—H...OW and OW—HW...O hydrogen bonds, forming a large ring motif [R
10
10(56)], leading to a three-dimensional supramolecular network. In compound (III), 2-amino-4-chloro-6-methylpyrimidine (ACP) interacts with the carboxylic acid group of 6-chloronicotinic acid via N—H...O and O—H...O hydrogen bonds, generating an R
2
2(8) primary ring motif. Furthermore, the ACP molecules form a base pair via N—H...N hydrogen bonds. The primary motif and base pair combine to form tetrameric units, which are further connected by Cl...Cl interactions. In addition to this hydrogen-bonding interaction, compounds (I) and (III) are further enriched by π–π stacking interactions.
Investigation of how gate residues in the main channel affect the catalytic activity of Scytalidium thermophilum catalase
Authors: Yuzugullu Karakus Yonca , Goc Gunce , Zengin Karatas Melis , Balci Unver Sinem , Yorke Briony A. , Pearson Arwen R.
Published: January 2024

Catalase is an antioxidant enzyme that breaks down hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) into molecular oxygen and water. In all monofunctional catalases the pathway that H2O2 takes to the catalytic centre is via the `main channel'. However, the structure of this channel differs in large-subunit and small-subunit catalases. In large-subunit catalases the channel is 15 Å longer and consists of two distinct parts, including a hydrophobic lower region near the heme and a hydrophilic upper region where multiple H2O2 routes are possible. Conserved glutamic acid and threonine residues are located near the intersection of these two regions. Mutations of these two residues in the Scytalidium thermophilum catalase had no significant effect on catalase activity. However, the secondary phenol oxidase activity was markedly altered, with k
cat and k
cat/K
m values that were significantly increased in the five variants E484A, E484I, T188D, T188I and T188F. These variants also showed a lower affinity for inhibitors of oxidase activity than the wild-type enzyme and a higher affinity for phenolic substrates. Oxidation of heme b to heme d did not occur in most of the studied variants. Structural changes in solvent-chain integrity and channel architecture were also observed. In summary, modification of the main-channel gate glutamic acid and threonine residues has a greater influence on the secondary activity of the catalase enzyme, and the oxidation of heme b to heme d is predominantly inhibited by their conversion to aliphatic and aromatic residues.
Spectral data fusion in nondestructive detection of food products: Strategies, recent applications, and future perspectives
Authors: Guo Minqiang , Wang Kaiqiang , Lin Hong , Wang Lei , Cao Limin , Sui Jianxin
Published: January 2024

In recent years, the food industry has shown a growing interest in the development of rapid and nondestructive analytical methods. However, the utilization of a solitary nondestructive detection technique offers only a constrained extent of physical or chemical insights regarding the sample under examination. To overcome this limitation, the amalgamation of spectroscopy with data fusion strategies has emerged as a promising approach. This comprehensive review delves into the fundamental principles and merits of low‐level, mid‐level, and high‐level data fusion strategies within the domain of food analysis. Various data fusion techniques encompassing spectra‐to‐spectra, spectra‐to‐machine vision, spectra‐to‐electronic nose, and spectra‐to‐nuclear magnetic resonance are summarized. Moreover, this review also provides an overview of the latest applications of spectral data fusion techniques (SDFTs) for classification, adulteration, quality evaluation, and contaminant detection within the purview of food safety analysis. It also addresses current challenges and future prospects associated with SDFTs in real‐world applications. Despite the extant technical intricacy, the ongoing evolution of online data fusion platforms and the emergence of smartphone‐based multi‐sensor fusion detection technology augur well for the pragmatic realization of SDFTs, endowing them with formidable capabilities for both qualitative and quantitative analysis in the realm of food analysis.