bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shifts in fungal community diversity and potential function under natural forest succession and planted forest restoration in the Kunyu Mountains, East China
Authors: Zhu Ping , Hu Xinyu , Zou Qiang , Yang Xiaoyan , Jiang Bohan , Zuo Jincheng , Bai Xinfu , Song Jianqiang , Wu Nan , Hou Yuping
Published: August 2024

Soil fungi participate in various ecosystem processes and are important factors driving the restoration of degraded forests. However, little is known about the changes in fungal diversity and potential functions under the development of different vegetation types during natural (secondary forest succession) and anthropogenic (reforestation) forest restoration. In this study, we selected typical forest succession sequences (including Pinus densiflora Siebold & Zucc., pine‐broadleaf mixed forest of P. densiflora and Quercus acutissima Carruth., and Q. acutissima), as well as natural secondary deciduous broadleaved mixed forests and planted forests of Robinia pseudoacacia on Kunyu Mountain for analysis. We used ITS rRNA gene sequencing to characterize fungal communities and used the FUNGuild database to predict fungal functional groups. The results showed that forest succession affected fungal β‐diversity, but not the α‐diversity. There was a significant increase in Basidiomycota and a decrease in Ascomycota in the later successional stage, accompanied by an increase in the functional groups of ectomycorrhizal fungi (ECM). Conversely, planted forests exhibited decreased fungal α‐diversity and altered community compositions, characterized by fewer Basidiomycota and more Ascomycota and Mucoromycota. Planted forests led to a decrease in the relative abundances of ECM and an increase in animal pathogens. The TK content was the major factor explaining the distinction in fungal communities among the three successional stages, whereas pH, AP, and NH4+ were the major factors explaining community variations between natural and planted forests. Changes in vegetation types significantly affected the diversity and functional groups of soil fungal communities during forest succession and reforestation, providing key insights for forest ecosystem management in temperate forests.
Direct and indirect effects of climate and seed dynamics on the breeding performance of a seed predator at the distribution edge
Authors: Oro Daniel , Freixas Lídia , Bartrina Carme , Míguez Silvia , Torre Ignasi
Published: August 2024

Marginal populations usually have low densities and are considered to be particularly vulnerable to environmental stochasticity. Using data collected in nest boxes, we analyzed the breeding performance of the edible dormouse (Glis glis), an obligate hibernating rodent and a seed predator in deciduous forests, in two populations at the distribution range's edge. Despite being only 20 km apart from each other, Montseny is a large patch of mixed deciduous forests (oaks and beech), whereas Montnegre would be the harshest habitat, that is, a small, isolated patch with only oaks. First, we studied the differences in climate and tree cover change in the two populations. Second, we analyzed the direct and indirect roles of local climate conditions and seed availability on breeding performance over 10 years in each population. Finally, we explored the influence of tree cover change on the occupancy dynamics in the two populations. Our results showed contrasting responses between populations: in Montseny, asynchronous seed production between oaks and beech precluded skip breeding, and breeding performance increased with seed availability. Furthermore, dormice in Montseny may use pollen production to anticipate the amount of beech nut resources and adjust their breeding effort. Boxes showed higher occupancy and colonization and fewer extinctions in Montseny than in Montnegre, where seed availability did not drive breeding performance. Results from Montnegre suggest that skip breeding was an adaptive response to a more pulsed, harsher environment. Here, females produced a similar number of pups than at Montseny. Long‐term studies dealing with population responses in marginal habitats can lead to a deeper understanding of the capacities of organisms to adapt to harsh environments. Although local adaptation is frequently documented across various taxa, studies at the distribution edge may shed light on our still limited comprehension of the underlying mechanisms responsible for its occurrence.
Characterization and natural history of patients with LMNA‐related dilated cardiomyopathy in the phase 3 REALM‐DCM trial
Authors: Garcia‐Pavia Pablo , Lakdawala Neal K. , Sinagra Gianfranco , Ripoll‐Vera Tomas , Afshar Kia , Priori Silvia G. , Ware James S. , Owens Anjali , Li Huihua , Angeli Franca S. , Elliott Perry , MacRae Calum A. , Judge Daniel P.
Published: August 2024

Aims

LMNA‐related dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a rare disease with an incompletely defined phenotype. The phase 3 REALM‐DCM trial evaluated a potential disease‐modifying therapy for LMNA‐related DCM but was terminated due to futility without safety concern. This study utilized pooled data from REALM‐DCM to descriptively characterize the phenotype and progression of LMNA‐related DCM in a contemporary cohort of patients using common heart failure (HF) measures.

Methods

REALM‐DCM enrolled patients with stable LMNA‐related DCM, an implanted cardioverter defibrillator or cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillator, and New York Heart Association (NYHA) Class II/III HF symptoms.

Results

Between 2018 and 2022, 77 patients took part in REALM‐DCM. The median patient age was 53 years (range: 23–72), and 57% were male. Overall, 88% of patients had a pathogenic or likely pathogenic LMNA variant, and 12% had a variant of uncertain significance with a concordant phenotype. Among patients with confirmed sequencing, 55% had a missense variant. Atrial fibrillation was present in 60% of patients; 79% of all patients had NYHA Class II and 21% had NYHA Class III HF symptoms at baseline. Median (range) left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), 6 min walk test (6MWT) distance, Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire Overall Summary (KCCQ‐OS) score and N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) concentration at baseline were 42% (23–62), 403 m (173–481), 67 (18–97) and 866 pg/mL (57–5248), respectively. LVEF, 6MWT distance and KCCQ‐OS score were numerically lower in patients who had NYHA Class III versus II symptoms at baseline (LVEF: 38% vs. 43%; 6MWT distance: 326 vs. 413 m; and KCCQ‐OS score: 43 vs. 70), whereas NT‐proBNP concentration was higher (1216 vs. 799 pg/mL). Median follow‐up was 73 weeks (range: 0.4–218; 73 in NYHA Class II and 75 in NYHA Class III). Patients displayed variable change from baseline in 6MWT, KCCQ‐OS and NT‐proBNP values during follow‐up. Overall, 25% of patients experienced ventricular tachycardia, and 8% had ventricular fibrillation. Ten (13%) patients met the composite endpoint of worsening HF (adjudicated HF‐related hospitalization or urgent care visit) or all‐cause death; six had NYHA Class II and four had NYHA Class III at baseline. All‐cause mortality occurred in 6 (8%) patients; three had NYHA Class II and three had NYHA Class III symptoms at baseline.

Conclusions

Findings confirm the significant morbidity and mortality associated with LMNA‐related DCM despite the standard of care management. Typical measures of HF, including 6MWT distance, KCCQ‐OS score and NT‐proBNP concentration, were variable but correlated with NYHA class. An unmet treatment need remains among patients with LMNA‐related DCM. NCT03439514.
Mendelian randomization of plasma lipidome, inflammatory proteome and heart failure
Authors: Zheng Zequn , Tan Xuerui
Published: August 2024

Aims

Heart failure (HF) is a global health issue, with lipid metabolism and inflammation critically implicated in its progression. This study harnesses cutting‐edge, expanded genetic information for lipid and inflammatory protein profiles, employing Mendelian randomization (MR) to uncover genetic risk factors for HF.

Methods

We assessed genetic susceptibility to HF across 179 lipidomes and 91 inflammatory proteins using instrumental variables (IVs) from recent genome‐wide association studies (GWASs) and proteome‐wide quantitative trait loci (pQTL) studies. GWASs involving 47 309 HF cases and 930 014 controls were obtained from the Heart Failure Molecular Epidemiology for Therapeutic Targets (HERMES) Consortium. Data on 179 lipids from 7174 individuals in a Finnish cohort and 91 inflammatory proteins from a European pQTL study involving 14 824 individuals are available in the HGRI‐EBI catalogue. A two‐sample MR approach evaluated the associations, and a two‐step mediation analysis explored the mediation role of inflammatory proteins in the lipid–HF pathway. Sensitivity analyses, including MR‐RAPS (robust adjusted profile score) and MR‐Egger, ensured result robustness.

Results

Genetic IVs for 162 lipids and 74 inflammatory proteins were successfully identified. MR analysis revealed a genetic association between HF and 31 lipids. Among them, 18 lipids, including sterol ester (27:1/18:0), cholesterol, 9 phosphatidylcholines, phosphatidylinositol (16:0_20:4) and 6 triacylglycerols, were identified as HF risk factors [odds ratio (OR) = 1.037–1.368]. Cholesterol exhibited the most significant association with elevated HF risk [OR = 1.368, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.044–1.794, P = 0.023]. In the inflammatory proteome, leukaemia inhibitory factor receptor (OR = 0.841, 95% CI = 0.789–0.897, P = 1.08E‐07), fibroblast growth factor 19 (OR = 0.905, 95% CI = 0.830–0.988, P = 0.025) and urokinase‐type plasminogen activator (OR = 0.938, 95% CI = 0.886–0.994, P = 0.030) were causally negatively correlated with HF, whereas interleukin‐20 receptor subunit alpha (OR = 1.333, 95% CI = 1.094–1.625, P = 0.004) was causally positively correlated with HF. Mediation analysis revealed leukaemia inhibitory factor receptor (mediation proportion: 23.5%–25.2%) and urokinase‐type plasminogen activator (mediation proportion: 9.5%–10.7%) as intermediaries in the lipid–inflammation–HF pathway. No evidence of directional horizontal pleiotropy was observed (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

This study identifies a genetic connection between certain lipids, particularly cholesterol, and HF, highlighting inflammatory proteins that influence HF risk and mediate this relationship, suggesting new therapeutic targets and insights into genetic drivers in HF.
Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis in an adult patient with super‐refractory status epilepticus
Authors: Haanpää Anna , Kämppi Leena , Kantonen Jonas , Myllykangas Liisa , Laakso Sini M. , Forss Nina
Published: August 2024

This case report presents a 38‐year‐old male patient who, after a febrile infection, developed super‐refractory status epilepticus and multiorgan failure, and died in 2 weeks despite the best possible intensive care. Autopsy revealed findings suggestive of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH). This case shows that a rare immunological cause such as HLH may cause febrile infection‐related epilepsy syndrome (FIRES), and complications of intensive care can mask the physiological and laboratory changes in HLH.

Plain Language Summary

This case report presents a 38‐year‐old man who, after a febrile infection, developed intractable epileptic activity requiring intensive care treatment. During the intensive care, the patient showed signs of multiple organ damage and died in 2 weeks despite the best possible treatment. Autopsy revealed findings suggestive of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), which is a rare immune system regulation disorder leading to persistent inflammatory state and organ damages. This case shows that an immunological disorder like HLH may underlie treatment resistant fever‐related epileptic seizures.
Earth surface exchanges (ESEX) discussion of ‘Swelling and flow of expanding clays as a cause for nontectonic deformations in a glacial–interglacial environment: Holy Cross Mountains, Poland’ by E.Jurewicz, P.Karnkowski, A.Czarnecka‐Skwarek, E.Wójcik, I.Gawriuczenkow. Earth Surface Processes and Landforms2023: 1–16. https://doi.org/10.1002/esp.5609
Authors: Konon Andrzej , Domonik Andrzej , Ostrowski Szymon , Rybak‐Ostrowska Barbara , Wyglądała Michał
Published: August 2024

In a recently published report focused on the role of swelling of Triassic clays as the dominant process that led to the local steepening of competent Jurassic strata, its authors presented an opinion on the lack of evidence for the existence of the Gnieździska–Brzeziny strike‐slip fault along the contact between the Triassic and Jurassic rocks. This discussion presents the structural, geophysical, cartographic and geomechanical data indicating that the contact of Triassic and Jurassic rocks is defined by the vertical dextral strike‐slip Gnieździska–Brzeziny fault, which was formed after tilting of the beds in the Late Cretaceous. The presented evidence validates the tectonic deformation of Mesozoic rocks related to strike‐slip faulting. The dominant horizontal contraction across the fault planes within the restraining stepovers resulted in tilting of the beds, which is a well‐recognized phenomenon within the strike‐slip fault networks worldwide.
Structural Variants in the SMC1A Gene Associated With Near‐Haploidy in Undifferentiated Pleomorphic Sarcomas
Authors: Ibstedt Sebastian , Piccinelli Paul , Sydow Saskia , Köster Jan , Mertens Fredrik
Published: August 2024

Near‐haploidization, that is, loss of one copy of most chromosomes, is a relatively rare phenomenon in most tumors, but is enriched among certain soft tissue sarcomas, including undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (UPS). Presumably, near‐haploidization can arise through many mechanisms. This study aimed to identify gene rearrangements that could cause near‐haploidization. We here present two UPS in which near‐haploidization was an early event, identified through single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array analysis. One of the cases was studied further using whole genome and transcriptome sequencing, as well as cytogenetic and molecular cytogenetic methods. Both tumors had chromosomal rearrangements in the form of copy number shifts/structural variants affecting the SMC1A gene. These findings suggest that cohesin defects could contribute to mitotic errors resulting in massive loss of chromosomes. SMC1A encodes one of the components of the cohesin multiprotein complex, which is critical for proper alignment of the sister chromatids during S‐phase and separation to opposite spindle poles. Further studies should explore the role of cohesin defects in near‐haploidization in other sarcomas and to clarify its role in tumor development.
Schwann cell JUN expression worsens motor performance in an amyotrophic lateral sclerosis mouse model
Authors: Cabeza‐Fernández Sonia , Hernández‐Rojas Rubí , Casillas‐Bajo Angeles , Patel Nikiben , de la Fuente Alerie G. , Cabedo Hugo , Gomez‐Sanchez Jose A.
Published: August 2024

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a devastating neurodegenerative disease characterized by motor neuron death and distal axonopathy. Despite its clinical severity and profound impact in the patients and their families, many questions about its pathogenesis remain still unclear, including the role of Schwann cells and axon‐glial signaling in disease progression. Upon axonal injury, upregulation of JUN transcription factor promotes Schwann cell reprogramming into a repair phenotype that favors axon regrowth and neuronal survival. To study the potential role of repair Schwann cells on motoneuron survival in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, we generated a mouse line that over‐expresses JUN in the Schwann cells of the SOD1G93A mutant, a mouse model of this disease. Then, we explored disease progression by evaluating survival, motor performance and histology of peripheral nerves and spinal cord of these mice. We found that Schwann cell JUN overexpression does not prevent axon degeneration neither motor neuron death in the SOD1G93A mice. Instead, it induces a partial demyelination of medium and large size axons, worsening motor performance and resulting in more aggressive disease phenotype.
Clinical and molecular features of early onset pancreatic adenocarcinoma
Authors: Rémond Maxime , Smolenschi Cristina , Tarabay Anthony , Gelli Maximiliano , Fernandez‐de‐Sevilla Elena , Mouawia Ali , Cosconea Simona , Tselikas Lambros , Barbe Remy , Fuerea Alina , Bani Mohamed A. , Deloger Marc , Besse Benjamin , Pudlarz Thomas , Valéry Marine , Boige Valérie , Hollebecque Antoine , Ducreux Michel , Boilève Alice
Published: August 2024

Pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a major health burden and may become the second cause of death by cancer in developed countries. The incidence of early‐onset pancreatic cancer (EOPC, defined by an age at diagnosis <50 years old) is increasing. Here, we conducted a study of all PDAC patients followed at our institution. Patients were classified as EOPC or non‐early onset (nEOPC, >50). Eight hundred and seventy eight patients were included, of which 113 EOPC, exhibiting a comparable performance status. EOPC were more often diagnosed at the metastatic stage (70.0% vs 58.3%) and liver metastases were more prevalent at diagnosis (60.2% vs. 43.9%). The median overall survival (OS) from diagnosis was 18.1 months, similar between EOPC and nEOPC. Among patients who underwent surgery, recurrence‐free survival was similar between age groups. Among metastatic patients, first line progression free survival was similar but EOPC received more treatment lines (72.3% vs. 58.1% received ≥2 lines). Regarding molecular alterations, the mean tumor mutational burden (TMB) was lower in EOPC (1.42 vs. 2.95 mut/Mb). The prevalence of KRAS and BRCA1/2 mutations was similar, but EOPC displayed fewer alterations in CNKN2A/B. Fifty eight patients (18.6%) had actionable alterations (ESCAT I‐III) and 31 of them received molecularly matched treatments. On the transcriptomic level, despite its clinical aggressiveness, EOPC was less likely to display a basal‐like phenotype. To conclude, EOPC were diagnosed more frequently at the metastatic stage. OS and 1st line PFS were similar to nEOPC. EOPC displayed specific molecular features, such as a lower TMB and fewer alterations in CDKN2A/B.
Reputational risk and target selection: An evidence from China
Authors: Hussain Tanveer , Saeed Abubakr , Riaz Hammad
Published: August 2024

Do bidders with pre‐deal lower (higher) reputational risk select targets with lower (higher) reputational risk in the existing and new markets? Past research on the role of reputation suggests that reputable firms make conservative investment decisions to maintain their reputation. Using data from the Chinese takeover market over the time period 2010 to 2018, we examine the effect of reputational risk similarity on target selection and bidder returns. The results show that bidders with pre‐deal lower (higher) reputational risk select targets with lower (higher) reputational risk and this pattern of target selection only holds in the existing market whilst bidders entering into the new markets select targets with different levels of reputational risk. We also find that bidders with lower reputational risk earn higher announcement returns in both existing and new markets and pay fairer premiums to win the bid auction.
Pelvic floor disorder prevalence and risk factors in a cohort of parous Ugandan women
Authors: Vemulapalli Ramya , Ngobi Michael Derrick , Kiweewa Flavia Matovu , Jensen JaNiese Elizabeth , Fleecs Julia Diane , Steffen Haley Alaine , Wendt Linder Hagstrom , Jackson Jay Brooks , Kenne Kimberly Ann
Published: August 2024

Objectives

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of pelvic floor disorders (PFDs) and associated risk factors among parous Ugandan women.

Methods

We performed a cross‐sectional study of parous Ugandan women. Demographics and assessment for PFD were obtained. The presence of PFD was defined by participant symptom report, standardized questionnaires, and standard physical examination (pelvic organ prolapse quantification [POP‐Q] and cough stress test [CST]).

Results

A total of 159 women were enrolled in the study between June 2022 and June 2023. The median age was 35 years and median parity was 4. Forty‐four (28%) women in the cohort reported symptoms of urinary incontinence. No women reported symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse or anal incontinence. Seventy‐two (46%) participants had a positive CST and 93 (58.3%) had stage II or greater prolapse based on the POP‐Q. Cesarean section was found to have a protective effect for the development of PFD (odds ratio [OR] 0.22, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.07–0.59, P = 0.004).

Conclusion

PFDs are prevalent among parous Ugandan women at rates similar to cohorts in other low‐ and middle‐income countries. Cesarean section seems to be a protective factor against developing PFDs.
Factors associated with infection‐related severe maternal outcomes in pregnant and recently pregnant women: A secondary analysis of the WHO global maternal sepsis study
Authors: Escobar‐Vidarte Maria F. , Fernandez Paula A. , Galindo Juan Sebastian , Valencia‐Orozco Andrea , Libreros‐Peña Laura , Peña‐Zarate Evelyn E. , Castro Rigoberto , Lara Bredy D. , Carvajal Javier A.
Published: August 2024

Objective

The aim of the present study was to identify the risk factors for severe maternal outcomes (SMO) of women with suspected or confirmed infections using the data from the WHO global maternal sepsis study (GLOSS).

Methods

We conducted a secondary analysis of the GLOSS cohort study, which involved pregnant or recently pregnant women with suspected or confirmed infection around 713 health facilities in 52 low‐ and middle‐income countries, and high‐income countries. A nested case–control study was conducted within the GLOSS cohort. Cases included infection‐related maternal deaths or near misses, while controls represented non‐SMO. Logistic mixed models, adjusting for country variations, were employed. Using univariate analysis, we calculated crude odds ratios (crude OR) and their 95% confidence interval (95% CI). Variables were identified with less than 16% missing data, and P values less than 0.20 were used to perform the multivariate logistic model multilevel.

Results

A total of 2558 women were included in the analysis. As for the cases, 134 patients were found in the pregnant in labor or not in labor group and 246 patients in the postpartum or postabortion group. Pregnant women with prior childbirths faced a 64% increased risk of SMO. Ante‐ or intrapartum hemorrhage increased risk by 4.45 times, while trauma during pregnancy increased it by 4.81 times. Pre‐existing medical conditions elevated risk five‐fold, while hospital‐acquired infections increased it by 53%. Secondary infections raised risk six‐fold. Postpartum/postabortion women with prior childbirths had a 45% elevated risk, and pre‐existing medical conditions raised it by 2.84 times. Hospital‐acquired infections increased risk by 93%. Postpartum hemorrhage increased risk approximately five‐fold, while abortion‐related bleeding doubled it. Previous cesarean, abortion, and stillbirth also elevated risk.

Conclusions

Key risk factors for SMO include prior childbirths, hemorrhage, trauma, pre‐existing conditions, and hospital‐acquired or secondary infections. Implementing effective alert systems and targeted interventions is essential to mitigate these risks and improve maternal health outcomes, especially in resource‐limited settings.
Understanding social capital in community‐driven ride sharing: Lessons from a developing country
Authors: Santa Mijalche , Ciunova Shuleska Anita , Palamidovska Sterjadovska Nikolina
Published: August 2024

This paper aims to analyze the dynamics of social capital within community‐based P2P ridesharing practices through the relational (trust), cognitive (shared meaning and identity), and structural (network of social ties) dimensions of social capital. 21 users of Facebook P2P ridesharing participated in three focus groups. Using reflexive thematic analysis, we identified the key themes around social capital dimensions and the main factors that impact social capital dynamics (social broker, social debriefing, and time pressure). The impact of the social broker on social capital dynamics in ridesharing activities via Facebook can be explained by creating new bridging capital through linking different online and offline networks (inter‐network bridging) and by strengthening bonding capital through linking ridesharing group members (intra‐network bridging). Negative social debriefing weakens bonding capital and creates new bridging capital, whereas positive social debriefing strengthens bonding capital. Under high time pressure, travelers engage in activities that foster bridging capital development, whereas, under low time pressure, they rely on their bonding capital, avoiding engaging in bridging capital. We provided a comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing social capital dynamics that further influence P2P ridesharing practices, thus improving the current theory on social capital dynamics.
Taxonomische Studien in der Gattung Xerula R. Mre. (IX)
Authors: Dörfelt Heinrich
Published: August 2024

Die Arbeit umfaßt die Beschreibung folgender Sippen: Xerula japonica sp. nov., Xerula japonica var. ahmadii var. nov., Xerula japonica var. colensoi var. nov., Xerula radicata var. qfricana var. nov. und Xerula radicata var. australis var. nov.

Xerula americana wird einer eigenen Sektion, der sect. Hyalosctae sect. nov., zugewiesen. Eine Übersicht der bisher anerkannten Xerula‐Sippen schließt die Arbeit ab.
Study of some taxa from the genus Chenopodium L.
Authors: Dvořák František
Published: August 2024

Chenopodium pseudo‐borbasii J. Murr is a variable hybridogenous species; 2n = 54. Chenopodium vulvaria L. var. rhombicum J. Murr, gathered in Czechoslovakia, in Moravia near Kyjov, is a hybrid of Chenopodium vulvaria L. with Chenopodium × preissmannii J. Murr f. preissmannii. RNDr. J. Unar gathered two remarkable hybrids in Czechoslovakia, in Moravia and in Bohemia: Chenopodium × praeacutum × thellungii (= C. × unari Dvořák) (2n = 18 in extremely small seeds; 2n = 54 in seeds whose size agrees with the size of the seeds from Chenopodium album agg.); Chenopodium × solitarium J. Murr emend. Dvořák (2n = 18, 36 – mixoploidy). Characters of both these hybrids were investigated also in populations cultivated from the seeds of both specimens.
Harnessing private sector strategies for family planning to deliver the Dual Prevention Pill, the first multipurpose prevention technology with pre‐exposure prophylaxis, in an expanding HIV prevention landscape
Authors: Verde Hashim Catherine , Llewellyn Emma , Wood Rob , Brett Tracey , Chinyanga Tinashe , Webb Karen , Segal Kate
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The Dual Prevention Pill (DPP) combines oral pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) with oral contraception (OC) to prevent HIV and pregnancy. Noting the significant role played by the private sector in delivering family planning (FP) services in countries with high HIV burden, high level of private sector OC uptake, and the recent growth in self‐care and technology‐based private sector channels, we undertook qualitative research in Kenya, South Africa and Zimbabwe to prioritize private sector service delivery approaches for the introduction of the DPP.

Methods

Between March 2022 and February 2023, we conducted a literature review and key informant interviews with 34 donors and implementing partners, 19 government representatives, 17 private sector organizations, 13 pharmacy and drug shop representatives, and 12 telehealth agencies to assess the feasibility of DPP introduction in private sector channels. Channels were analysed thematically based on policies, level of coordination with the public sector, data systems, supply chain, need for subsidy, scalability, sustainability and geographic coverage.

Results

Wide geographic reach, ongoing pharmacy‐administered PrEP pilots in Kenya and South Africa, and over‐the‐counter OC availability in Zimbabwe make pharmacies a priority for DPP delivery, in addition to private networked clinics, already trusted for FP and HIV services. In Kenya and South Africa, newer, technology‐based channels such as e‐pharmacies, telehealth and telemedicine are prioritized as they have rapidly grown in popularity due to nationwide accessibility, convenience and privacy. Findings are limited by a lack of standardized data on service uptake in newer channels and gaps in information on commodity pricing and willingness‐to‐pay for all channels.

Conclusions

The private sector provides a significant proportion of FP services in countries with high HIV burden yet is an untapped delivery source for PrEP. Offering users a range of access options for the DPP in non‐traditional channels that minimize stigma, enhance discretion and increase convenience could increase uptake and continuation. Preparing these channels for PrEP provision requires engagement with Ministries of Health and providers and further research on pricing and willingness‐to‐pay. Aligning FP and PrEP delivery to meet the needs of those who want both HIV and pregnancy prevention will facilitate integrated service delivery and eventual DPP rollout, creating a platform for the private sector introduction of multipurpose prevention technologies.
Biochemical implication of acetylcholine, histamine, IL‐18, and interferon‐alpha as diagnostic biomarkers in hepatitis C virus, coronavirus disease 2019, and dual hepatitis C virus‐coronavirus disease 2019 patients
Authors: Sakr Amany Awad , Mohamed Amal Ahmed , Ahmed Amr E. , Abdelhaleem Ahmed A. , Samir Hussein H. , Elkady Mohammad Abdelkhalik , Hasona Nabil A.
Published: August 2024

Globally, hepatitis C virus (HCV) and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) are the most common causes of death due to the lack of early predictive and diagnostic tools. Therefore, research for a new biomarker is crucial. Inflammatory biomarkers are critical central players in the pathogenesis of viral infections. IL‐18, produced by macrophages in early viral infections, triggers inflammatory biomarkers and interferon production, crucial for viral host defense. Finding out IL‐18 function can help understand COVID‐19 pathophysiology and predict disease prognosis. Histamine and its receptors regulate allergic lung responses, with H1 receptor inhibition potentially reducing inflammation in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection. angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 (ACE‐2) receptors on cholangiocytes suggest liver involvement in SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. The current study presents the potential impact of circulating acetylcholine, histamine, IL‐18, and interferon‐Alpha as diagnostic tools in HCV, COVID‐19, and dual HCV‐COVID‐19 pathogenesis. The current study was a prospective cross‐section conducted on 188 participants classified into the following four groups: Group 1 COVID‐19 (n = 47), Group 2 HCV (n = 47), and Group 3 HCV‐COVID‐19 patients (n = 47), besides the healthy control Group 4 (n = 47). The levels of acetylcholine, histamine, IL‐18, and interferon‐alpha were assayed using the ELISA method. Liver and kidney functions within all groups showed a marked alteration compared to the healthy control group. Our statistical analysis found that individuals with dual infection with HCV‐COVID‐19 had high ferritin levels compared to other biomarkers while those with COVID‐19 infection had high levels of D‐Dimer. The histamine, acetylcholine, and IL‐18 biomarkers in both COVID‐19 and dual HCV‐COVID‐19 groups have shown discriminatory power, making them potential diagnostic tests for infection. These three biomarkers showed satisfactory performance in identifying HCV infection. The IFN‐Alpha test performed well in the HCV‐COVID‐19 group and was fair in the COVID‐19 group, but it had little discriminative value in the HCV group. Moreover, our findings highlighted the pivotal role of acetylcholine, histamine, IL‐18, and interferon‐Alpha in HCV, COVID‐19, and dual HCV‐COVID‐19 infection. Circulating levels of acetylcholine, histamine, IL‐18, and interferon‐Alpha can be potential early indicators for HCV, COVID‐19, and dual HCV‐COVID‐19 infection. We acknowledge that further large multicenter experimental studies are needed to further investigate the role biomarkers play in influencing the likelihood of infection to confirm and extend our observations and to better understand and ultimately prevent or treat these diseases.
DNA and seroprevalence study of MW and STL polyomaviruses
Authors: Katona Melinda , Jeles Krisztina , Takács Péter , Csoma Eszter
Published: August 2024

The clinical importance and the pathogenesis of the MW and STL polyomaviruses (PyVs) remain unclear. Our aim was to study the seroprevalence of MWPyV and STLPyV, and to examine the prevalence of viral DNA in respiratory samples and secondary lymphoid tissues. In total, 618 serum samples (0.8–90 years) were analyzed for seroprevalence. For the DNA prevalence study, 146 patients (2.5–37.5 years) were sampled for adenoids (n = 100), tonsils (n = 100), throat swabs (n = 146), and middle ear discharge (n = 15) in study Group 1. In Group 2, we analyzed 1130 nasopharyngeal samples from patients (0.8–92 years) tested for SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. The adult seropositivity was 54% for MWPyV, and 81.2% for STLPyV. Both seroprevalence rates increased with age; however, the majority of STLPyV primary infections appeared to occur in children. MWPyV was detected in 2.7%–4.9% of respiratory samples, and in a middle ear discharge. STLPyV DNA prevalence was 1.4%–3.4% in swab samples, and it was detected in an adenoid and in a middle ear discharge. The prevalence of both viruses was significantly higher in the children. Noncoding control regions of both viruses and the complete genomes of STLPyV were sequenced. MWPyV and STLPyV are widespread viruses, and respiratory transmission may be possible.
Updated joint ESPGHAN/NASPGHAN guidelines for management of Helicobacter pylori infection in children and adolescents (2023)
Authors: Homan Matjaž , Jones Nicola L. , Bontems Patrick , Carroll Matthew W. , Czinn Steven J. , Gold Benjamin D. , Goodman Karen , Harris Paul R. , Jerris Robert , Kalach Nicolas , Kori Michal , Megraud Francis , Rowland Marion , Tavares Marta ,   on behalf of ESPGHAN/NASPGHAN
Published: August 2024

Background

Evolving epidemiological data and increasing antibiotic resistance mandate an update of the European and North American Societies of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition guidelines.

Methods

Certainty of evidence and strength of recommendations were rated by experts according to the Grading of Recommendation Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach. PICO (patient population, intervention, comparator, and outcome) questions were developed and voted on by the group. Recommendations were formulated using the Evidence to Decision framework.

Results

The current literature supports many of the previous recommendations and several new recommendations. Invasive testing with strain antimicrobial susceptibility analysis is recommended for the diagnosis and selection of eradication therapy for H. pylori infection. Molecular methods are acceptable for detection of infection and of antibiotic resistance in gastric biopsy specimens. Reliable, noninvasive tests can be used as a screening method for children with history of gastric cancer in a first‐degree relative. When investigating causes of chronic immune thrombocytopenic purpura, testing for H. pylori is no longer recommended. When investigating other diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease, or eosinophilic esophagitis, specific diagnostic biopsies for H. pylori infection are not indicated. However, if H. pylori is an incidental finding, treatment may be considered after discussing the risks and benefits. Treatment should be based on antibiotic antimicrobial susceptibility testing and, if unavailable, regimens containing clarithromycin should be avoided.

Conclusions

Due to decreasing prevalence of infection, increasing challenges with antibiotic resistance, and emerging evidence regarding complications of infection, clinicians must be aware of these recommended changes to appropriately manage H. pylori infection and its clinical sequelae in children.
Metabolomic comparison of postprandial distress syndrome patients with and without duodenal eosinophilia
Authors: Dalal Stuti , Ajit Deepa , Friesen Chance S. , Shakhnovich Valentina , Singh Meenal , Colombo Jennifer M. , Schurman Jennifer V. , Friesen Craig A.
Published: August 2024

Objective

In functional dyspepsia patients, duodenal mucosal eosinophilia has been associated with early satiety but is not present in all patients suggesting varied pathways to symptom generation. The objective of the current study was to explore metabolic differences comparing those with duodenal mucosal eosinophilia to those without eosinophilia.

Methods

This study was conducted utilizing an existing biorepository. Patients had plasma samples obtained at the time of endoscopy. All had undergone endoscopy for dyspepsia and reported early satiety. Two groups were identified including those with peak duodenal mucosal eosinophil densities above 30/high power field (N = 28) and those below 30 (N = 16). The fasting plasma samples were analyzed by liquid chromatography/high‐resolution mass spectrometry. Significant differences between groups were determined.

Results

The eosinophilia group demonstrated significant elevations in several gamma‐glutamyl amino acids. The eosinophilia group had elevations of metabolites associated with oxidative stress including glutathione metabolites (cysteinlyglycine and cys‐gly oxidized), and metabolites related to nitric oxide synthesis (arginine, citrulline, ornithine, and dimethylarginine). Eosinophilia was also associated with alterations in lipid metabolism including several long‐chain acylcarnitine conjugated fatty acids. Carnitine levels were lower in the eosinophilia group. Lastly, vanillymandelate, a derivative of norepinephrine and epinephrine was elevated in the eosinophilia group.

Conclusions

In patients with dyspepsia and early satiety, duodenal mucosal eosinophilia is associated with metabolites levels which are consistent with increased oxidative stress and alterations in lipid metabolism. Eosinophilia was also associated with lower carnitine levels. These alterations may contribute to pathophysiology and represent therapeutic targets.
The Ansoff archive: Revisiting Ansoff's legacy and the holistic approach to strategic management
Authors: Puyt Richard W. , Antoniou Peter H. , Caputo Andrea
Published: August 2024

This paper explores the profound influence and legacy of H. Igor Ansoff in the field of strategic management. Ansoff, a Russian‐American mathematician known as the father of strategic management, introduced groundbreaking concepts such as the Ansoff matrix and long‐range planning. The Ansoff Institute's recent initiative to establish the Ansoff Archives at the University of Twente underscores his enduring impact on strategic management research. This archive aims to preserve his intellectual contributions and support future scholarship. The paper reviews Ansoff's seminal works, including his influential publication Corporate Strategy (1965) and discusses his holistic approach to strategic change, which remains relevant in today's dynamic organizational environments. By commemorating Ansoff's contributions, the paper highlights the importance of his strategic frameworks in guiding contemporary issue management amidst unprecedented levels of uncertainty and change.
Development of cellulose‐based biosorbents from the residue of the peach palm agribusiness and simulation of industrial scale‐up for copper removal from Brazilian spirit
Authors: Arantes Matheus Samponi Tucunduva , Miranda Thalia Marchinhaki Pedro , Magalhães Washington Luiz Esteves , Helm Cristiane Vieira , da Silva Vítor Renan
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

Cachaça (Brazilian spirit) is an alcoholic beverage of cultural and economic importance in Brazil. Its artisanal production is usually conducted in copper alembics, which results in contamination. The development of effective biosorbents from cheap matrices is an alternative to minimize both solid waste generation and copper levels in cachaça. The present work evaluates the obtention of nanocellulose‐based materials from the major residue generated during the processing of palm heart from the Brazilian peach palm, through different processing techniques. Materials were characterized by physicochemical composition and their sorbent capacities for copper removal from aqueous solutions, and a simulation was conducted to evaluate potential application in the adequacy of cachaça to meet Brazilian legislation requirements.

RESULTS

The different processing methods resulted in different cellulose concentrations, with the highest concentration in the bleached material (B3, 694 g kg−1 of cellulose), and different specific surface areas (1.02–12.4 m2 g−1). Copper adsorption onto nanocellulose obtained from peach palm external sheath is fast, with a predominance of a chemisorption mechanism. Isotherms were best represented by Langmuir's model, suggesting a monolayer adsorption. Simulations indicate that B3 is a suitable material for the removal of copper from cachaça, and small amounts of biosorbent (733.5 g) are required for the reduction of copper concentrations (10 to 3 mg L−1) in 1000 L of cachaça.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that the obtention of biosorbents from peach palm solid residues is promising and this nanocellulose‐based material can be used for copper removal from contaminated cachaça. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Preparation and characterization of microcrystalline cellulose from rice bran
Authors: Liu Yanlan , Ran Jingfeng , Xu Ziyang , Cheng Hao , Lin Benping , Deng Tianran , Yi Cuiping
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

Rice bran, a by‐product of rice processing, has not been fully utilized except for the small amount used for raising animals. The raw material source requirements of microcrystalline cellulose are becoming increasingly extensive. However, the characteristics of preparing microcrystalline cellulose from rice bran have not been reported, which limits the application of rice bran.

RESULTS

Microcrystalline cellulose was obtained from rice bran by alkali treatment, delignification, bleaching and acid hydrolysis. The morphology, particle size distribution, degree of polymerization, crystallinity, and thermal stability of rice bran microcrystalline cellulose were analyzed. The chemical compositions, scanning electron microscopy and Fourier‐transform infrared analysis for rice bran microcrystalline cellulose showed that the lignin and hemicellulose were successfully removed from the rice bran fiber matrix. The morphology of rice bran microcrystalline cellulose was shown to be of a short rod‐shaped porous structure with an average diameter of 65.3 μm. The polymerization degree of rice bran microcrystalline cellulose was 150. The X‐ray diffraction pattern of rice bran microcrystalline cellulose showed the characteristic peak of natural cellulose (type I), and its crystallization index was 71%. The rice bran microcrystalline cellulose may be used in biological composites with temperatures between 150 °C and 250 °C.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest the feasibility of using rice bran as a low‐price source of microcrystalline cellulose. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Analysis of nitrogen‐containing rocket fuel transformation products in loamy soil by thermal desorption gas chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Popov Mark S. , Kosyakov Dmitry S. , Ul'yanovskii Nikolay V.
Published: August 2024

Unsymmetrical dimethylhydrazine (UDMH) based rocket fuel, when released into the soil, undergoes oxidative transformations to form a variety of toxic nitrogen‐containing products (TPs). Loamy soils containing aluminosilicates (clay) are capable of strong binding and retention of UDMH TPs due to a combination of polar sorption and cation‐exchange properties, posing challenges for their extraction and quantification. To overcome this problem, the present study proposes direct thermal desorption (TD) of analytes from loam facilitated by the addition of modifiers competing with UDMH TPs for sorption centers and ensuring their conversion into molecular form. Among tested additives, the mixture of potassium chloride and hydroxide demonstrated the best performance and provided recoveries of the most UDMH TPs exceeding 70% under optimized TD conditions (200°C, 30 min). The online combination of TD with gas chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry allowed for the development of a method for the determination of 15 UDMH TPs in loamy soils with limits of detection in the range of 0.2–15 µg/kg. The use of matrix‐matched calibration and deuterated internal standards ensured high accuracy (80%–100%) and precision (relative standard deviation < 18%) of the analysis. The developed method was validated and successfully tested in the analyses of real loamy soil samples polluted with rocket fuel.
How do tourists perceive churches as tourism destinations? A text mining approach through online reviews
Authors: Sun Shaolong , Wang Lintao , Zhao Erlong , Wang Shouyang
Published: August 2024

Church tourism has gained popularity due to the historical, artistic, and religious significance of churches, contributing significantly to the social and economic sectors. The destination image of churches plays a crucial role in tourism marketing. However, existing literature predominantly relies on traditional methods to study tourists' perception of churches as tourism destinations, with limited analysis of user‐generated content (UGC) like online reviews. This study aims to fill this gap by analyzing the online reviews of 10 renowned European churches posted on TripAdvisor using text mining techniques. Findings reveal that tourists mainly focus on overall description, visiting experience, architectural design, and surrounding environment of the church, with specific areas of interest for certain churches. The research findings can assist church administrators in formulating sustainable tourism strategies and promoting the development of the church tourism.
How Does Educational Travel Promote Lifelong Learning?
Authors: Chau Salott , Ren Lianping
Published: August 2024

Travel contributes to learning and learning can make travel more meaningful. However, the extant literature that exemplifies how educational travel influences an individual's attitude toward learning is limited. Based on social constructivism and self‐determination theory, and utilizing an online survey (N = 321), this study examines how university students' educational travel experiences lead to changes in academic motivation and wellbeing, which may enhance attitudes toward lifelong learning. The conceptual model of lifelong learning in relation to educational travel, academic motivation, and wellbeing is developed and confirmed. The full mediation effect of academic motivation and wellbeing is established. The survey results reveal a positive relationship between educational travel experience and learners' attitude change in lifelong learning. The study highlights the role of educational travel experience in promoting attitudinal changes toward lifelong learning, which provides implications to both travel companies and educational institutes for design and development of educational travel activities and programs.