bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early life stress paired with adolescent alcohol consumption reduces two‐bottle choice alcohol consumption in mice
Authors: Perry Thomas W. , Carvour Harrison M. , Reichert Amanda N. , Sneddon Elizabeth A. , Roemer Charlotte A. E. G. , Gao Ying Ying , Schuh Kristen M. , Shand Natalie A. , Quinn Jennifer J. , Radke Anna K.
Published: January 2025

Background

In humans, early life stress (ELS) is associated with an increased risk for developing both alcohol use disorder (AUD) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). We previously used an infant footshock model in rats that produces stress‐enhanced fear learning (SEFL) and increases aversion‐resistant alcohol drinking to explore this shared predisposition. The goal of the current study was to test the viability of this procedure as a model of comorbid PTSD and AUD in male and female C57BL/6J mice.

Methods

Acute ELS was induced using 15 footshocks on postnatal day (PND) 17. In adulthood, alcohol drinking behavior was tested in one of three two‐bottle choice drinking paradigms. In continuous access, mice were given 24 h access to 5% and 10% ethanol and water for five consecutive drinking sessions each. In limited access drinking in the dark, mice were given 2 h of access to 15% ethanol and water across 15 sessions 3 h into the dark cycle. In intermittent access, mice were presented with 20% ethanol and water Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, for four consecutive weeks. In a fifth week of intermittent access drinking, increasing concentrations of quinine (10, 100, and 200 mg/L) were added to the ethanol to test aversion‐resistant drinking. Intermittent access drinking was tested with and without a period of adolescent drinking (PND 35).

Results

Infant footshock did not alter drinking in the continuous or limited access tasks. In the intermittent access task, adult consumption and preference were lower in shocked mice when adolescent drinking was included. Aversion resistance was greater in females following infant footshock and adolescent drinking.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate that ELS, in the form of infant footshock on PND 17, must be followed by a period of adolescent drinking to affect adult alcohol consumption in mice.
How stable and predictable are welfare estimates using recreation demand models?
Authors: Lloyd‐Smith Patrick , Zawojska Ewa
Published: January 2025

Economic analyses of environmental policy projects typically use pre‐existing estimates of welfare measures that are then transferred over time to the policy relevant periods. Understanding how stable and predictable these welfare estimates are over time is important for applying them in policy. Yet, revealed preference models of recreation demand have received few temporal stability assessments compared to other nonmarket valuation methods. We use a large administrative panel dataset on campground reservations covering 10 years to study temporal stability and predictability of environmental quality welfare estimates. Welfare estimates are statistically different across years in 62% of the comparisons, and this ranges from 47%–71% depending on modeling assumptions. Using an event study design, we find evidence that week‐specific welfare estimates are stable after an initial adjustment week in response to a change in environmental quality. Our findings further reveal that using 2 years of data in the modeling compared to a single year improves the prediction of future welfare measure estimates substantially, but further prediction improvements are modest when including more than 2 years of data. Predictions of welfare estimates are more consistent when using data closer in time to the prediction year. We discuss the implications of our results for using revealed preference studies in policy analysis.
Oral and Gut Microbial Hubs Associated With Reaction Threshold Interact With Circulating Immune Factors in Peanut Allergy
Authors: Zhang Lingdi , Chun Yoojin , Grishina Galina , Lo Tracy , Reed Kyle , Wang Julie , Sicherer Scott , Berin M. Cecilia , Bunyavanich Supinda
Published: January 2025

Background

Among peanut‐allergic individuals, there is high variability in the amount of peanut that triggers reactions (i.e., reaction threshold) that is not predictable or well‐understood. We conducted this study to characterize relationships between the oral and gut microbiomes and systemic processes associated with reaction threshold in peanut allergy (PA).

Methods

In a cohort of 120 children with suspected PA who underwent double‐blind, placebo‐controlled food challenges, we generated and analyzed parallel profiles of the oral microbiome, gut microbiome, peripheral blood transcriptome, peripheral blood cytometry, and serum antibody levels to identify threshold‐associated markers and their inter‐relationships.

Results

The 120 participants included 23 children with no PA, 74 with high‐threshold PA (reacting to ≥ 443 mg cumulative peanut protein), and 23 with low‐threshold PA (reacting to < 443 mg cumulative peanut protein). Ten hub microbes were each identified in saliva and stool microbiome networks that were constructed, including the hub microbes Rothia aeria in saliva and Bacteroides sp. in stool that were associated with reaction threshold. These hub microbes were also associated with peripheral blood transcript levels for threshold‐associated key drivers of FcγR‐mediated phagocytosis and TLR signaling. Correlation network construction with additional data on threshold‐associated peripheral blood neutrophil abundance and peanut‐specific serum IgE and Ara h 2 antibody levels revealed central roles for saliva Rothia aeria and stool Bacteroides sp. in local‐systemic networks for IgE‐ and IgG‐mediated peanut allergy.

Conclusions

This integrated study of oral and stool microbiomes, blood transcriptome, cellular profiles, and peanut‐specific serum antibodies revealed new relationships between local microbiota and systemic measures associated with reaction threshold in peanut allergy.
Machine Perfusion Liver Preservation: Highlights From the International Liver Transplant Society 2024
Authors: Krendl Felix J. , Faria Isabella , Singh Jessica , Oberhuber Rupert , Martins Paulo N.
Published: January 2025

The 2024 International Liver Transplantation Society (ILTS) Congress, held in Houston, Texas, brought together a dynamic, multidisciplinary community of global experts to explore and discuss cutting‐edge innovations and unmet needs in liver transplantation. Key themes included liver machine perfusion and donation after circulatory death (DCD), reflecting the ongoing effort to expand the donor pool and improve transplantation outcomes. Machine perfusion technologies, including normothermic machine perfusion (NMP), hypothermic oxygenated perfusion (HOPE), and normothermic regional perfusion (NRP) have demonstrated great promise in optimizing graft quality, mitigating ischemia–reperfusion injury, and enhancing the use of marginal and DCD liver grafts. At this year's congress a total of 63 abstracts on liver machine perfusion were presented. For this report we selected all orally presented abstracts highlighting advances in organ preservation, artificial intelligence, treatments during ex‐situ perfusion including cellular therapy as well as new the use of new biomarkers. Preclinical highlights included the potential of long‐term NMP to sustain and regenerate grafts during extended ex‐situ preservation, spontaneous defatting of steatotic grafts during LT‐NMP, the delivery of regulatory T cells to enable organ‐level immunomodulation and the removal of damage‐associated molecular patterns from porcine DCD livers during NMP. On the clinical side, key points included the progression of HOPE to IDEAL‐D Stage 4 evidence, increased transplant volumes through the application of NMP, the cost‐effectiveness of NMP as well as the utilization of very old DCD donors through NRP. Collectively, these advancements mark a transition toward dynamic, data‐driven, and personalized transplantation strategies. Machine perfusion remains central to optimizing grafts, expanding the pool of organs suitable for transplantation enhancing access to liver transplantation and improving outcomes for liver transplant recipients worldwide.
Is it in their words? Teachers' enthusiasm and their natural language in class–A sentiment analysis approach
Authors: Frenzel Anne C. , Kleen Hannah , Marx Anton K. G. , Sachs David F. , Baier‐Mosch Franziska , Kunter Mareike
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Teacher enthusiasm is an undisputedly important characteristic of teachers, with demonstrated positive effects on student outcomes. Existing research typically operationalised teacher enthusiasm via trait‐based teacher‐ or student ratings. Strikingly little is known about how teachers' trait enthusiasm manifests in their actual in‐situ classroom behaviour. Some findings have been reported regarding teachers' nonverbal behaviours, but the links between teacher enthusiasm and teacher language are unknown so far.

Methods

The present contribution fills this research gap by applying lexicon‐based sentiment analysis to quantify teachers' emotional tone from transcribed teacher utterances obtained from video recordings of full mathematics lessons (45 min). N = 19 secondary school mathematics teachers and their N = 393 students participated in our study. We realised the sentiment analysis using Remus et al.'s emotion lexicon SentiWS (v2.0, 2019). We obtained both teacher self‐reports and student ratings to assess teachers' enthusiasm, shown habitually (trait), and during the videotaped lesson (in situ).

Results

Regarding trait enthusiasm, teachers' own, but not the students', ratings were positively linked with teachers' verbally expressed sentiment in the videotaped lesson, specifically its positive valence. Regarding in‐situ enthusiasm, associations were even larger but also did not reach significance for the student ratings.

Conclusion

This is the first study to employ sentiment analysis on transcripts of German teachers' in‐class talk. Besides the quantitative links between teacher enthusiasm and their language, it also provides qualitative insights on positive emotional teacher talk in mathematics.
Diluting perceived immigration threat: When and how intersectional identities shape views of North African immigrants
Authors: Sternberg Béatrice , Yzerbyt Vincent , Badea Constantina
Published: January 2025

In the European context, North African immigrants are often perceived as a threat to societal values and resources. Studies suggest that intersected identities (e.g., gay North African immigrant) may dilute the threat associated with one of those social categories (e.g., North African immigrant). However, the mechanisms underlying this dilution effect remain largely misunderstood. Three studies (NTotal = 1118) examine when and how immigration threat perception can be lessened, considering immigrants' intersecting identities. Using a mediated‐moderation model, we tested the hypothesis that, when perceived value incongruence between North African and gay identities (the moderator) is high, gay North African men will be perceived as ‘less North African’ than presumptively straight North African men (i.e., low group typicality: the mediator), which in turn would be associated with lower threat perception and less prejudice. Studies 1–2 revealed that participants evaluate North African immigrant men as less threatening when described as gay (vs. not). This threat dilution effect emerges especially when participants believe that North African immigrant and gay identities are highly incongruent. Studies 2–3 show that gay North African immigrants are perceived as less associated with typical attributes of the category ‘North African immigrant’, which may account for the diminished threat.
Usefulness of novel line traction‐assisted polypectomy for a large gastric polyp prolapsing into the duodenum
Authors: Morita Muneshin , Waki Kotaro , Tanaka Yasuhito
Published: January 2025

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Phylogenetic Origin of Morphologically Cryptic Species Shapes Co‐Occurrence and Sympatry Patterns
Authors: Delić Teo , Di Batista Borko Špela , Premate Ester , Rexhepi Behare , Alther Roman , Knüsel Mara , Malard Florian , Weber Dieter , Stoch Fabio , Flot Jean‐François , Fišer Cene , Altermatt Florian
Published: January 2025

Cryptic species are an important part of freshwater biodiversity, yet it remains unclear how these species integrate into communities from local to regional geographic scales. To protect biodiversity, particularly overlooked cryptic species, an accurate understanding of the underlying processes and adequate level of protection is needed.

We analysed patterns of syntopies (local co‐occurrences) and sympatries (regional range overlap) to explore how the phylogenetic origin of cryptic species shapes biodiversity patterns. We hypothesised (i) that syntopies were more common among distantly than closely related cryptic species, and (ii) that the existing sympatries were an outcome of phylogenetic relatedness and dispersal.

The hypotheses were tested on a polyphyletic species complex of subterranean amphipod species (Niphargus rhenorhodanensis complex) by deploying molecular species delimitation, time‐calibrated phylogenies, and co‐occurrence analyses with probabilistic and generalised linear models (GLM).

The studied complex comprised 37–48 molecular operational taxonomic units (MOTUs) from nine different clades, with syntopies occurring at random or less frequently than expected. GLM indicated age of divergence did not predict species sympatries, although they emerged more frequently among MOTUs from different clades. Sympatries, however, emerged through dispersal, in MOTUs with large geographic ranges. These mostly overlapped at the foothills of the Alps, the Jura and the Central Massif.

We conclude that the observed spatial patterns are mainly driven by dispersal and presumably reflect the geographic circumstances of speciation. While species richness on a local scale may be an outcome of competition and dispersal, regional biodiversity patterns presumably arise through a clade‐level cascade of historical events, including orogeny and climatic shifts.
Correlation of the Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index (GNRI) With Other Indicators of Nutrition in Chronic Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Kosmadakis Georges , Necoara Aura , Fuentes Fanny , Ramade Nathalie , Baudenon Julien , Deville Clemence , Enache Ioana , Gueret Claudine , Haskour Abraham
Published: January 2025

Background

The GNRI (Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index1) is an index used in geriatrics to predict the risk of complications and mortality associated with malnutrition. It considers serum albumin levels and the ratio of current weight or BMI to the ideal theoretical weight/BMI.

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate this index in a population of metabolically stable chronic hemodialysis patients aged > 60 years and associate it with other nutritional markers.

Methods

The studied patient cohort was divided into two groups based on their Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index (GNRI) scores: Gr 1 with GNRI score < 97 and Gr 2 with GNRI ≥ 97. We registered the anthropometric, clinical, and biological data of the study population.

Results

One hundred seventy‐seven patients (102 M‐75F) undergoing chronic hemodialysis were included. There were no differences in age, muscle mass estimated by bioimpedance analysis, potassium levels, phosphorus levels, and nPCR between the groups. However, there were significant differences between the two groups concerning the primary disease. Gr 1 presented with a higher prevalence of diabetes and cardiovascular comorbidities. Additionally, Gr 1 presented with lower handgrip strength (Mean ± standard deviation in kg, 19.79 ± 9.37 vs. 26.83 ± 11.63, p = 0.05), lower fat mass index estimated by bioimpedance analysis (Mean ± standard deviation in kg/m2, 7.31 ± 4.55 vs. 15.24 ± 6.47, p < 0.001), and higher CRP levels (Mean ± standard deviation in mg/l, 22.27 ± 23.49 vs. 8.13 ± 10.14, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

In conclusion, the GNRI, an easy calculation tool for nutrition assessment, is associated with important nutritional status parameters in chronic hemodialysis patients.
Pollen analysis as a tool to advance avian research and inform conservation strategies
Authors: Goodenough Anne E. , Webb Julia C.
Published: January 2025

Ornithologists use many methods to advance understanding of birds and inform conservation strategies. These include field methods (e.g. censusing, ringing), laboratory analysis (e.g. molecular taxonomy, microbiology) and computational approaches (e.g. population modelling, habitat suitability mapping). Indirect metrics can also be important: for example, ptilochronology as a proxy for food availability and dominance hierarchies, stable isotopes as a proxy for diet and first egg dates as a proxy for phenological responses to climate change. Recently, the potential to use palynology – the study of pollen and spores – in ecology has become increasingly recognized, but there has been no specific appraisal of the utility of palynology in ornithology. In this scoping review, we synthesize research undertaken over 70 years across all seven continents covering the many diverse ways in which studying pollen associated with birds can advance ornithological understanding and inform conservation strategies. We critique the use of palynology both directly and as a proxy to study avian habitat use, migration ecology, diet and feeding strategies, and population dynamics, offering constructive suggestions for future research at the end of each thematic section. We also explore the potential for analysing pollen on birds (or within avian deposits such as guano) to answer wider questions, especially in relation to pollination and environmental reconstruction, thereby offering cross‐disciplinary collaborative research ideas. We conclude that the potential for uniting ornithology and palynology within the research and conservation contexts is as extensive as it is exciting and urge avian biologists to think broadly about new opportunities.
Psoriasis in People With Skin of Color: An Evidence‐Based Update
Authors: Gkini Maria‐Angeliki , Nakamura Mio , Alexis Andrew F. , Londoño‐Garcia Angela , van de Kerkhof Peter C. M. , Doss Nejib , Griffiths Christopher E. M. , Kaufman Bridget , Kleyn Christine E. , Lebwohl Mark , Redfern Jan S. , Takeshita Junko , Rajagopalan Murlidhar , El Sayed Mahira H.
Published: January 2025

Variations in epidemiology, pathophysiology, genetics, clinical presentation, management, quality of life (QoL) impact, and access to care and research exist globally across the spectrum of individuals with psoriasis. This article aims to provide an evidence‐based update on the characteristics of psoriasis in individuals with skin of color (SOC), a population in which psoriasis data have historically been limited. A literature search was conducted from January 2018 until August 2023 in Pubmed/MEDLINE/Cochrane Library and identified studies with I‐III level of evidence using Oxford Centre for Evidence‐Based Medicine recommendations. Multiple factors (including biological and non‐biological) contribute to differences in clinical features and therapeutic nuances in patient populations with SOC. The prevalence of plaque psoriasis is lower in people with SOC but tends to be more severe. People with SOC are less likely to receive biologic treatment. Although the QoL impact of psoriasis is worse in populations with SOC than in White populations, more research is needed to elucidate variations in presentation and impact across diverse populations. An important limitation of this study is that ethnicity, race, and SOC have not been defined universally or used consistently in the literature. Available evidence provides limited information on populations with SOC outside North America, which limits generalizability across global populations. Furthering our understanding of psoriasis in individuals with SOC is crucial to improving patient care outcomes for diverse patient populations worldwide.
Confessing the One Faith in Many Tongues
Authors: Behera Marina Ngursangzeli
Published: January 2025

This article critically reflects on the historical and cultural implications of the Nicene Creed, focusing on its relevance in non‐Western contexts. It explores the Creed not just as a theological concept but also as a tool that has influenced both ecumenical unity and hegemonic power dynamics, especially in Indigenous and colonial encounters. After outlining the Creed's role in settling debates about the nature of the relationship between the Father and the Son, while acknowledging the Creed's later global and liturgical adoption, the article critically examines the interaction between the Nicene Creed and Indigenous faith traditions. It then reflects on a possible continuity between African traditional religions and the Christian faith, focusing on the relationship of the Father and the Son. The article concludes that creeds need to be continuously reinterpreted in diverse cultural contexts and the ecumenical fellowship and advocates for a more nuanced approach to the apostolic faith, where the Nicene Creed becomes a decolonizing tool, allowing Indigenous theological perspectives to reshape how the Christian faith interacts not only with local traditions but also with the modern world. Ultimately, the article calls for an ongoing reflection on the triune God's self‐revelation to avoid the hardening of confessions as witness into creeds as a colonizing and excluding tool.
Factors Influencing Liver Cirrhosis Progression in Wilson's Disease Patients: A Retrospective Cohort Study Over 5 Years
Authors: Peng Jieru , Zhang Lu , Dong Yao , Long Wencheng , Wang Yueshan , Zhang Qiwen , Li Zhong , Li Yaxin , Jin Qiaolin , Deng Lin , Liao Juan , Xie Linshen , Yang Chunxia
Published: January 2025

Objectives

Wilson's disease (WD) is a rare autosomal recessive inherited disorder characterized by dysregulated copper metabolism, amenable to treatment with chelating agents. It manifests with hepatic and neurological symptoms, often precipitating the development of liver cirrhosis as a prominent complication. This study aims to elucidate the factors, biomarker alterations, and therapeutic modalities influencing the progression of cirrhosis in WD patients.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study utilized WD patient data from West China Fourth Hospital (May 2018–September 2023). The primary outcome was the development of cirrhosis in initially cirrhosis‐free WD patients. LASSO‐COX regression identified predictive factors. The 1:1 propensity score matching generated a matched subgroup for robust Cox regression validation.

Results

Among 133 initially cirrhosis‐free WD patients, 47 developed cirrhosis during 35.98 (22.04–49.21) months. Significant differences were observed between the cirrhosis and non‐cirrhosis groups in age at enrollment, age at WD diagnosis, clinical symptoms, educational levels, and administration of dimercaptosuccinic acid, compound glycyrrhizin polyene, and phosphatidylcholine. Multivariate Cox regression identified age at enrollment (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.038, 95% CI: 1.002–1.075), the use of glycyrrhizin (HR: 0.421, 95% CI: 0.192–0.926), erythrocyte (HR: 0.748, 95% CI: 0.626–0.895), and platelet counts (HR: 0.993, 95% CI: 0.988–0.998) associated with cirrhosis. Robust Cox analysis on the matched subgroup confirmed these findings.

Conclusion

Glycyrrhizic acid emerges as a potential hepatoprotective agent for WD patients. Furthermore, the progression of cirrhosis in WD patients is characterized by advanced age and decreased baseline levels of erythrocytes and platelets, suggesting their potential utility as prognostic indicators.
Is Photosynthesis‐Derived NADPH Really a Source of 2H‐Depleted Hydrogen in Plant Compounds?
Authors: Holloway‐Phillips Meisha , Tcherkez Guillaume , Wieloch Thomas , Lehmann Marco M. , Werner Roland A.
Published: January 2025

Summary statement

We provide evidence that photosynthetically produced NADPH is not the major source of 2H‐depletion in carbohydrates.
Does policy design matter for the effectiveness of local content requirements? A qualitative comparative analysis of renewable energy value chains
Authors: Eicke Laima
Published: January 2025

Green industrial policies aim to create local value from renewable energy (RE) technologies. One policy instrument includes local content requirements (LCR), which prescribe a minimum share of locally manufactured inputs for investments in RE. However, the policy effectiveness of LCR differs. While they fostered local industries with rising exports in some countries, they were less successful in others. This paper analyses whether differences in LCR's effectiveness can be explained by policy design elements and the interaction with political economy factors. The paper contributes novel insights on necessary and sufficient conditions for LCR policies' effectiveness in wind and solar energy value chains. It is based on the first qualitative comparative analysis on the topic, covering 27 cases between 1995 and 2017. The analysis reveals that LCR are only effective in fostering green domestic industries if the enforced share of locally manufactured components is not too high, or when applied in countries with related industries. Furthermore, the paper outlines combinations of policy design elements that are sufficient for policy effectiveness even in challenging political economy contexts. The insights on context‐specific policy designs for LCR effectiveness are relevant for policy design theory as well as for policymakers and industry experts.
Characteristics and Prediction of the Dynamic Processes of Snow‐ and Ice‐Related Hazards in the Rangda Catchment, Southeastern Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Wen Hong , Xia Zuqi , Bian Rui , Peng Junwen , Liu Bo , Zhao Siyuan , Li Xiaoning
Published: January 2025

Snow‐ and ice‐related hazards pose significant threats in high‐altitude and high‐latitude regions, impacting natural environments and human infrastructure. Given their sensitivity to climate change, it is crucial to understand the underlying mechanisms of these hazards in the context of global warming to mitigate mountain disaster risk. This study focuses on the Rangda catchment along the CL (–Tibet) Railway on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau, a region prone to various snow‐ and ice‐related hazards. Through field investigations, remote sensing analyses, and numerical simulations, we characterized the spatial distributions and potential impacts of snow, glaciers, and glacial lakes in the catchment. The catchment hosts 28 glaciers covering 53.05 km2 and five glacial lakes, with Zala Lake and Dalong Lake being prominent. Notably, Zala Lake has undergone significant expansion over the past three decades. The entire catchment is snow‐covered to varying depths during winter and spring, contributing to frequent snow avalanches and icefalls, particularly those originating from the Zangburi Glacier. These events have affected the makeshift road that is used for construction and pose a potential threat to the auxiliary tunnel exits and the Rangda Bridge. Although no current debris flows have been observed, the potential for glacial lake outburst floods exists due to ongoing climate warming and glacial retreat. Further simulations and exposure analyses indicate that the primary disaster‐causing patterns of snow‐ and ice‐related hazards in the catchment are snow avalanches, icefall–dam–outburst–debris chains, and glacial lake outburst debris flows. The study also examined the risks faced by engineering facilities along the ST railway in the catchment and proposes disaster reduction strategies. This research enhances the understanding of snow‐ and ice‐related hazards in the region and provides insights for disaster mitigation strategies along the ST Railway.
Cortisol elevado como confusor en un caso de hiperplasia suprarrenal congénita por déficit de 21 hidroxilasa
Authors: Suarez-Ahumada Nydia Camila , Obando Jairo Alejandro , Lince Rivera Isabela , Matallana Audrey Mary
Published: January 2025

La hiperplasia suprarrenal congénita (HSC) por déficit de 21 hidroxilasa (21-OH) es una enfermedad rara, caracterizada por una alteración en la producción de cortisol, aldosterona y andrógenos. El artículo presenta el caso de un bebé de dos meses de edad que ingresó al servicio de urgencias por desnutrición aguda severa, sin antecedentes relevantes, con hiperpigmentación de areolas y longitud de pene aumentada para la edad. En los exámenes paraclínicos se encontró hiponatremia severa, hipercalemia, hiperandorgenemia, corticotropina elevada, pero concentraciones elevadas de cortisol. Ante la sospecha clínica de HSC, a pesar del cortisol alto, se inició remplazo hormonal, y los estudios genéticos confirmaron la mutación en el gen CYP21A2, que condiciona el déficit de 21-OH. De este caso se resalta que una sospecha fuerte de HSC, por los hallazgos clínicos y el uso de pruebas genéticas, a pesar de los factores de confusión como niveles altos de cortisol, llevan a un adecuado diagnóstico y tratamiento. Adicionalmente, se hace hincapié en la importancia del tamizaje metabólico neonatal, para la detección temprana de una patología potencialmente mortal, que puede pasar inadvertida, y su tratamiento, que puede retrasarse y derivar en falla en el medro y crisis salina, como en este caso.
Factores asociados a neumonía en organización tras infección respiratoria por SARS-CoV2
Authors: Romero Rojas Dolfus Santiago , Lutz Peña Juan Ricardo , Muñoz Velandia Oscar Mauricio
Published: January 2025

La neumonía en la organización (OP) tras el SARS-CoV-2 es una secuela que impacta la recuperación de los pacientes. No está claro cuáles factores se asocian con su desarrollo. Métodos: Estudio retrospectivo de casos y controles en adultos con neumonía por SARS-CoV-2 y síntomas por, al menos, 14 días, manejados en el Hospital San Ignacio (Bogotá, Colombia). Se compararon las características clínicas y desenlaces entre pacientes que desarrollaron criterios de OP (casos) contra los que no (controles). Se evaluaron los factores asociados a la OP. Resultados: Se incluyeron 148 pacientes, 74 casos y 74 controles (edad: 57,8 ± 12.6 años. Un 62,2 % de hombres). El patrón radiológico más frecuente de la OP fue el clásico (70 %). Los controles se clasificaron en mayor proporción como severos, según la escala News (67,6 % vs. 52,7 %; p = 0,002), y presentaron una mayor tasa de mortalidad (13,5 % vs. 4,1 %: p = 0,04). La única variable asociada a la OP fue neumonía con severidad moderada por la escala News (OR = 6,55; IC95 %: 1,76-24,4; p = 0,005). Conclusiones: La severidad moderada al ingreso se asocia con desarrollar OP. No hay otras variables que parezcan asociarse. Esto podría explicarse por las teorías que sugieren que el patrón de lesión pulmonar en COVID-19 sea en sí neumonía en organización. Se requerirán nuevos estudios para evaluar el impacto de la OP en estos pacientes.
The existence of a tritonymphal stage in the life cycle of Eustigmaeus jiangxiensis Hu, Chen & Huang (Acariformes: Stigmaeidae)

Authors: Doğan Salih
Published: January 2025

Four active postembryonic developmental stages are often present in members of the family Stigmaeidae: the six-legged larva, the eight-legged protonymph, deutonymph, and the adult. This study provides a new description of the tritonymphal stage of Eustigmaeus jiangxiensis Hu, Chen & Huang in the Stigmaeidae. The distinguishing characteristics of the adults and the three nymphal stages are delineated. The occurrence of the tritonymphal stage in the stigmaeids is unusual. This study marks the second occasion, the first being in Stigmaeus elongatus Berlese. In addition, Ledermuelleriopsis giresuniensis Doğan & Ayyıldız is proposed as a junior synonym of Eustigmaeus jiangxiensis Hu, Chen & Huang.
Progression of antibiotic resistance in
Neisseria meningitidis
Authors: Rodriguez Emilio , Tzeng Yih-Ling , Berry Isha , Howie Rebecca , McNamara Lucy , Stephens David S.
Published: January 2025

The human pathogen
Neisseria meningitidis
(
Nm
) is the causative agent of invasive meningococcal disease (IMD), usually presenting as meningitis, bacteremia, or sepsis. Unlike
Neisseria gonorrhoeae
, antibiotic resistance in
Nm
has developed slowly. However, in the last two decades and with the reemergence of IMD following the COVID-19 pandemic, antibiotic-resistant
Nm
isolates, especially to penicillin and fluoroquinolones, have progressively increased. Recent worldwide studies of penicillin intermediate and resistant
Nm
isolates and the PubMLST global database reveal a notable increase in fully penicillin-resistant isolates since 2016, mediated by mosaic
penA
alleles or the β-lactamase genes
bla
ROB-1
and

bla
TEM-1

. Fluoroquinolone-resistant isolates, mediated by
gyrA
mutations, have increased since 2005. Also, while still exceptionally rare, four
Nm
isolates have been identified with third-generation cephalosporin-resistance since 2011. We review the emergence of antibiotic resistance determinants and lineages in
Nm,
the resistance to agents previously or currently used in treatment or chemoprophylaxis, and summarize updated treatment and prevention guidelines for IMD. Special populations (e.g., individuals on complement inhibitors) and antibiotic resistance in
Nm
urethritis isolates are also reviewed. The increasing number of resistant
Nm
isolates worldwide affects chemoprophylaxis and treatment options for IMD and emphasizes the need for enhanced global surveillance of antibiotic resistance in
Nm
.
Molecular diagnosis of infective endocarditis from culture-negative valve samples in a tertiary hospital in Iran
Authors: Mohammadi Mohammad Reza , Mohabbati Mobarez Ashraf , Broumand Mohammad Ali , Baseri Neda , Latifian Mina , Esmaeili Saber
Published: January 2025

The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of
Tropheryma whipplei, Chlamydia psittaci, Chlamydia pneumoniae, Legionella, Brucella,
and
Francisella tularensis
in valve samples from endocarditis patients using the real-time PCR method at a major referral heart hospital in Iran. In this study, 146 paraffin-embedded tissue samples from the heart valves of patients with clinical and pathological evidence of infective endocarditis (IE), who underwent heart valve replacement surgery between 2016 and 2020 at Tehran Heart Center were collected. After DNA extraction from paraffin-embedded valve tissue samples, they were surveyed for the presence of
T. whipplei, C. psittaci, C. pneumoniae, Legionella, Brucella,
and
F. tularensis
using quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR). The 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis was used for accurate species identification. Based on the molecular results,
T. whipplei
,
Chlamydia
spp., and
Legionella
spp. were detected in 10 (6.84%), 6 (4.1%), and 3 (2.05%) valve samples, respectively. In addition, one of six positive samples for
Chlamydia
spp. was identified as
C. psittaci
. No positive samples for
F. tularensis
and
Brucella
were found. In addition, all control valve samples were negative for all investigated pathogens. The findings suggest that specific bacterial species such as
T. whipplei
,
Chlamydia spp.,
and
Legionella spp
. are associated with the development of IE. Considering the life-threatening nature of IE, it is critical for healthcare systems to prioritize the identification of its causative agents and develop targeted treatment strategies.

IMPORTANCE

Infective endocarditis (IE) is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition, and it is associated with significant morbidity, mortality, and complications, making it a major concern in both global and national healthcare systems. Late diagnosis and failure to receive appropriate treatment for patients with culture-negative endocarditis caused by hard-to-grow bacteria can lead to the death of patients. Unfortunately, in Iran, less attention is paid to the role of organisms that are difficult to cultivate in laboratory settings such as
Tropheryma whipplei, Chlamydia psittaci, Chlamydia pneumoniae, Legionella, Brucella,
and
Francisella tularensis
in causing culture-negative endocarditis, and these pathogens are overlooked by infectious, cardiologists, and health officials. This study underscores the need for special attention in the diagnosis of the agents of IE.
Protocol for a randomised ‘screen-and-treat’Helicobacter pylorieradication trial in 14–18-years-old adolescents residing in three regions of Chile: effectiveness and microbiological host implications
Authors: George Sergio , Lucero Yalda , Cabrera Camila , Zabala Torres Beatriz , Fernández Lilian , Mamani Nora , Lagomarcino Anne , Aguilera Ximena , O'Ryan Miguel
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Gastric cancer is a major global health concern, being the final stage of a long-term process, primarily associated withHelicobacter pylori(H. pylori) infection. Early childhood acquisition ofH. pyloriwith low spontaneous eradication rates underscores the need for preventive measures. Our previous pilot treatment study revealed high eradication rates, favourable tolerance profile and a decline in serum biomarkers indicative of gastric damage in asymptomatic school-aged children. The purpose of this study is to determine the potential benefit of a ‘screen-and-treat’ strategy targeting persistently infected, asymptomatic adolescents. Specific aims are to assess eradication efficacy, its clinical and molecular outcomes and potential clinical and microbiological side effects.

Methods and analysis

The screening phase will involve testing 500–1000 asymptomatic adolescents aged 14–18 from three cities in Chile using the urea breath test (UBT) to identify 210 participants with persistent infection. They will proceed to a randomised, non-blinded, controlled trial, receiving either a sequential eradication scheme forH. pylorior no treatment. Follow-up will span up to 24 months post-treatment, involving UBT, gastroenterological assessments and blood and stool sample collections. Concurrently, a subset of 60 uninfected adolescents will undergo matched follow-up. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) commercial kits will evaluate gastric damage biomarkers in serum (pepsinogen I and II, gastrin-17, VCAM-1, CXCL13). Stool samples will be employed forEscherichia coliandEnterococcusspp—culture, assessing AMR via the disk diffusion method.H. pyloriclarithromycin resistance will be determined by molecular method from stool samples. The gut microbiome will be characterised by amplifying and sequencing the 16S rRNA gene from stool samples, followed by bioinformatics analysis.

Ethics and dissemination

Approved by the Human Research Ethics Committee at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile (073–2022). Findings will be disseminated in peer-reviewed journals and scientific meetings to guide future practices.

Trial registration number

NCT05926804.
Effect of delivery hospital busyness on early mortality in small preterm infants: a Finnish population-based cohort study in 2006–2016
Authors: Vilkko Riitta , Heinonen Seppo , Räisänen Sari , Gissler Mika , Andersson Sture , Leskinen Markus
Published: January 2025

Objectives

To evaluate the effect of delivery hospital busyness on the postnatal condition and the perinatal mortality among small preterm infants born at ≤32+0 gestational weeks.

Design

The daily delivery volume distribution is defined as lowest 10% (‘quiet’) and highest 10% (‘busy’) delivery-volume days, and days between (80%) as optimal delivery-volume days. We analysed differences in the incidence of selected adverse outcomes between quiet and busy days compared with optimal delivery-volume days by logistic regression followed by crude (ORs) and adjusted ORs (aORs) with 99% CIs.

Setting

A population-based cohort study based on prospectively collected real-world data from five university hospitals and 21 non-tertiary-level delivery hospitals in Finland, 2006‒2016.

Participants

4323 small preterm infants.

Primary outcome measures

Umbilical cord pH ≤7.05, Apgar score 0–3 points at the age of 1 min, Apgar score 0–3 points at age 5 min, birth asphyxia (International Classification of Diseases-10 code), resuscitation with intubation.

Secondary outcome measures

Perinatal mortality comprising stillbirths and early neonatal deaths (<7 days).

Results

Busy days (busy vs optimal) showed no correlation with the primary birth-related outcomes. However, in the university hospitals, quiet days were associated with 80% lower odds of asphyxia (aOR 0.20, 99% CI 0.08 to 0.48) and 47% lower odds of resuscitation (aOR 0.53, 99% CI 0.39 to 0.72) compared with their incidence on optimal days.

In university hospitals, the odds of early neonatal mortality among small preterm infants on busy days were twofold (aOR 2.08, 99% CI 1.26 to 3.45) than on optimal days. In the non-tertiary hospitals, however, this difference was statistically non-significant (aOR 0.68, 99% CI 0.19 to 2.45).

Conclusions

In the tertiary university delivery hospitals, busyness was associated with a twofold increase in early neonatal mortality among small preterm infants, whereas infants’ condition at birth on busy days was comparable to their condition on optimal days. Neonatal capacity in tertiary units during busy days may be critical under stress.
Rural–urban and age differences in association between depression and suicidal attempt: a large retrospective clinical sample study in China
Authors: Ge Dandan , Xia Yong , Zhang Zhonghua
Published: January 2025

Objectives

To assess the association between depression and suicide attempt (SA) by age and region.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College from January 2021 to January 2022.

Participants

Hospitalised patients.

Primary outcome measures

SA was the primary outcome and data on SA was obtained from the electronic medical records of hospitalised patients.

Methods and analysis

In this study, data on inpatients of the First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College from January 2021 to January 2022 were extracted from the medical record system using the convenience sampling method. According to the exclusion criteria, 7593 eligible research subjects were obtained. Logistic regression analysis was used to assess the association between depression and SA, combining age and region. Subgroup analyses were carried out to assess the relationship between age, region and SA in depressed patients, after excluding non-depressed patients, and to inspect the interaction of age and region. Finally, further comparisons of the disparities in suicide patterns among different age groups and regional groups were made.

Results

Among 7593 patients (3630 males), 655 (8.6%) patients with SA were observed. We found that depression was significantly associated with SA by age and region (all p<0.05). Specifically, depressed juveniles and adults had a higher risk of SA compared with non-depressed adults, and ORs (95% CIs) were 2.62 (1.59 to 4.30) and 1.67 (1.30 to 2.13), respectively. Furthermore, rural individuals with depression, urban individuals without depression and urban individuals with depression had a higher risk of SA compared with rural participants without depression, and ORs (95% CIs) were 1.60 (1.22 to 2.12), 1.29 (1.04 to 1.61) and 2.53 (1.83 to 3.49), respectively. In subgroup analyses, we further found that depression was strongly associated with SA in juveniles (OR 2.84, 95% CI 1.19 to 6.76, p=0.018) and urban patients (OR 1.67, 95% CI 1.15 to 2.40, p=0.006). Notably, the predominant methods of suicide among individuals with depression were the utilisation of sleeping pills or antidepressants.

Conclusion

Our study found individuals with depression are at higher risk of SA, especially juveniles and urban individuals. Effective integration of mental health and urban–rural services could mitigate the risk of suicide and contribute to better outcomes.
Prevalence of eating disorder risk in irritable bowel syndrome, coeliac and inflammatory bowel diseases using SCOFF
Authors: Holland William J , Raju Suneil A , Newton Millie , Rej Anupam , Trott Nick , Ingham Katerina E , Johnson Calvin M , Sanders David Surendran
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Eating disorders (EDs) and disordered eating behaviours are common in the general population. Those with gastrointestinal (GI) disorders may be particularly at risk, as they may need dietary therapies. There are no direct comparisons of the risk of EDs in patients with coeliac disease (CeD), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). We present the first study comparing the prevalence of ED risk and risk factors in CeD, IBD and IBS using the Sick, Control, One stone, Fat, Food (SCOFF) questionnaire.

Methods

Patients attending GI clinics with diagnosed CeD, IBD or IBS were approached to complete the SCOFF questionnaire between 2021 and 2022 and compared with controls.

Results

In total, 501 (41.6% male, mean age 46.7 years) participants completed the questionnaire. The prevalence of those at risk of EDs in patients with IBS (18%) was higher than CeD (9.4%, p=0.01), IBD (11.5%, p=0.03) and controls (6%, p<0.05). There was no difference in the risk of EDs between patients with CeD and IBD (p=0.57) nor between CeD or IBD and controls (p=0.26 and p=0.09 respectively). Patients at risk of EDs were more likely to be a younger age (OR: 0.96, 95% CI: 0.94 to 0.98) and have psychiatric disorders (OR: 3.04, 95% CI 1.87 to 4.93, p<0.001).

Conclusion

ED risk is more common in IBS than in CeD or IBD. SCOFF can be used to quickly identify patients at risk of EDs particularly those with identified risk factors, such as younger patients with pre-existing mental health conditions. Further assessment would be needed in those identified as at risk of ED.
Financial barriers to participation in international gastroenterology conferences: a cross-sectional analysis of registration fees
Authors: Dhali Arkadeep , Maity Rick , Bhattacharya Sautam , Biswas Jyotirmoy , Sanders David Surendran
Published: January 2025

Objective

International gastroenterology conferences serve as vital platforms for networking and professional development. Yet, financial barriers limit participation from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). We sought to analyse the registration fees for international gastroenterology conferences to understand the financial challenges faced by attendees, particularly from LMICs, and suggest improvements for equitable access.

Design/method

In this cross-sectional, retrospective study, we collected registration fee data from the official conference websites and categorised them according to host country, career stage (student, trainee/resident or staff), society membership status, option for virtual participation and availability of concessions for LMIC participants. Fees were converted to their US dollar equivalent using historical exchange rates from the International Monetary Fund’s website.

Results

Out of 42 conferences, only five (11.9%) were hosted by LMICs. The median registration fees for member students, trainees and staff were US$87.65, US$150.00 and US$336.84, respectively, while the median fees for non-member students, trainees and staff were US$220.00, US$368.28 and US$600.39, respectively. Only eight (19%) conferences offered concessions for LMIC participants. 12 (28.6%) conferences included a virtual component, with seven (58.3%) offering cheaper virtual-only packages.

Conclusion

Conference registration costs are substantial and only a minority of conferences offered concessions for LMIC participants. High costs of registration, travel and accommodation, complex visa processes and limited speaking opportunities are major reasons for the limited LMIC representation. To address these inequities, global societies should provide financial and administrative support and continue the hybrid model of conferences to enhance accessibility and inclusivity.