bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Cold-induced anaphylaxis: new insights into clinical and genetic characteristics
Authors: Bizjak Mojca , Korošec Peter , Košnik Mitja , Šelb Julij , Bidovec-Stojkovič Urška , Svetina Manca , Zver Samo , Dinevski Dejan , Rijavec Matija 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionThe pathogenesis of cold urticaria (ColdU) and cold-induced anaphylaxis (ColdA) remains poorly understood, and ColdA is underrepresented in anaphylaxis literature. Laboratory features to guide management are largely unknown. This study evaluated basal serum tryptase (BST) and total immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels in ColdU and ColdA, their associations with clinical features, and the utility of testing for the KIT p.D816V variant in blood leukocytes and hereditary α-tryptasemia (HαT).MethodsNinety-two adults with ColdU were enrolled. ColdA was defined as a reaction involving skin and/or visible mucosal tissue with cardiovascular, respiratory, or gastrointestinal manifestations. Evaluations included patient history, standard cold stimulation testing (sCST) using an ice cube and TempTest®, and laboratory tests.ResultsColdA was diagnosed in 35.9% of patients. ColdU phenotypes based on sCST included typical ColdU (52.2%), localized cold-reflex urticaria (5.4%), and ColdU with negative sCST (42.4%). Negative sCST, compared to typical ColdU, was associated with fewer ColdA cases (p = 0.004) but more spontaneous wheals (p &lt; 0.001). ColdA patients more frequently exhibited generalized wheals (p = 0.047), skin angioedema (p = 0.007), oropharyngeal/laryngeal manifestations (p &lt; 0.001), and itchy earlobes (p = 0.002) than non-ColdA patients. Elevated BST levels (&gt;11.4 ng/mL) in 9.8% of patients were attributed to KIT p.D816V and/or HαT. KIT p.D816V was detected in 6.6% of ColdU and 6.3% of ColdA patients. HαT prevalence was higher in ColdU (10.9%) and ColdA (15.2%) than the general population (estimated at 5.7%; p = 0.041 and p = 0.038). Total IgE levels were significantly higher in ColdA than non-ColdA (p = 0.021).DiscussionThis study confirmed clinical features linked to ColdA previously identified by the multicenter COLD-CE study, including generalized wheals, skin angioedema, oropharyngeal/laryngeal manifestations, and itchy earlobes. We identified new high-risk features. ColdA is more frequently associated with typical ColdU than with ColdU with negative sCST, the latter being linked to spontaneous wheals. ColdA is additionally associated with higher total IgE levels. Furthermore, patients with ColdU and ColdA exhibit higher prevalence of KIT p.D816V and HαT compared to general population data, a finding not previously reported. Further research is needed to explore their clinical implications.
Neural signal analysis in chronic stroke: advancing intracortical brain-computer interface design
Authors: Shawki Nabila , Napoli Alessandro , Vargas-Irwin Carlos E. , Thompson Christopher K. , Donoghue John P. , Serruya Mijail D. 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionIntracortical Brain-computer interfaces (iBCIs) are a promising technology to restore function after stroke. It remains unclear whether iBCIs will be able to use the signals available in the neocortex overlying stroke affecting the underlying white matter and basal ganglia.MethodsHere, we decoded both local field potentials (LFPs) and spikes recorded from intracortical electrode arrays in a person with chronic cerebral subcortical stroke performing various tasks with his paretic hand, with and without a powered orthosis. Analysis of these neural signals provides an opportunity to explore the electrophysiological activities of a stroke affected brain and inform the design of medical devices that could restore function.ResultsThe frequency domain analysis showed that as the distance between an array and the stroke site increased, the low frequency power decreased, and high frequency power increased. Coordinated cross-channel firing of action potentials while attempting a motor task and cross-channel simultaneous low frequency bursts while relaxing were also observed. Using several offline analysis techniques, we propose three features for decoding motor movements in stroke-affected brains.DiscussionDespite the presence of unique activities that were not reported in previous iBCI studies with intact brain functions, it is possible to decode motor intents from the neural signals collected from a subcortical stroke-affected brain.
Unpacking excessive polypharmacy patterns among individuals living with chronic pain in Quebec: a longitudinal study
Authors: De Clifford-Faugère Gwenaelle , Nguena Nguefack Hermine Lore , Ménard Nancy , Beaudoin Sylvie , Pagé M. Gabrielle , Guénette Line , Hudon Catherine , Samb Oumar Mallé , Lacasse Anaïs 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionExcessive polypharmacy, which can be defined as the concurrent use of ≥10 medications, is prevalent among individuals with chronic pain. However, it remains unclear how it may vary between individuals or over time.ObjectivesThis study aimed to describe and identify factors associated with trajectories of excessive polypharmacy.MethodsA retrospective longitudinal study was conducted using the TorSaDE Cohort, which links Canadian Community Health Surveys (2007–2016) and Quebec health administrative databases. Among 9,156 adults living with chronic pain and covered by public prescribed drug insurance, the presence of excessive polypharmacy (yes/no) was assessed monthly for one-year post-survey completion (12 time points). Group-based trajectory modelling was applied to identify groups with similar patterns over time (trajectories). Multivariable multinomial regression was used to identify factors associated with trajectory membership.ResultsFour trajectories were obtained: (1) “No excessive polypharmacy” (74.8%); (2) “Sometimes in excessive polypharmacy” (8.6%); (3) “Often in excessive polypharmacy” (6.1%); 4) “Always in excessive polypharmacy” (10.5%). Factors associated with the “always in excessive polypharmacy” trajectory membership were: being older, being born in Canada, having a lower income, having a higher comorbidity index score, more severe pain intensity, and more daily activities prevented by pain, reporting arthritis or back pain and poorer perceived general health, and having a family physician. Using opioids or benzodiazepines, having a lower alcohol consumption, doing less physical activity, a higher number of prescribers and visits to a family physician also predicted being always in excessive polypharmacy.DiscussionThis study identifies distinct trajectories of excessive polypharmacy in adults with chronic pain, emphasizing key sociodemographic and clinical factors and the need for tailored interventions for effective medication management.
Plasma NMDAR autoantibody: a new biomarker for the diagnosis of Hirschsprung disease
Authors: Lai Yulu , Lu Jieting , Liu Yanqing , Zeng Jixiao , Huang Shenwei , Li Lin , Wang Bingtong , Wei Pengfei , Ouyang Yu , Lv Junjian , Zhong Wei , Lan Chaoting , Xia Huimin , He Qiuming 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionHirschsprung Disease (HSCR) is a common congenital intestinal disease in pediatrics. Early diagnosis and treatment after birth alleviate the occurrence of complications. Consequently, we aim to identifiy a biomarker with ease of use, non-invasiveness, and highly accurate for diagnosis.MethodsPlasma samples were collected from HSCR group, other intestinal disease controls (DC) and healthy controls (HC), while colon samples were collected from HSCR and DC groups. We conducted human neural autoantibody microarray analyses on plasma. The candidate biomarker was further validated using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in colon tissue and plasma. The receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) was used to assess the diagnostic performance of the plasma biomarker.ResultsMicroarray analysis revealed that the level of plasma N-methyl-D-Aspartate receptor (NMDAR) autoantibody in HSCR group was significantly higher than those in the HC group (p = 0.008). In plasma analyzed cohort, the level of NMDAR autoantibodies in HSCR group (n = 38) were significantly elevated compared to both the HC (n = 31, p &lt; 0.0001) and the DC (n = 20, p &lt; 0.0001). We further validated the diagnostic efficacy of plasma NMDAR autoantibody, it demonstrated AUCs of 0.96 and 0.81 for diagnosing HSCR when compared to HC and DC.ConclusionsPlasma NMDAR autoantibody might be served as an efficient, non-invasive biomarker for diagnosing HSCR.
Trend analysis of pediatric urolithiasis prevalence from 1990 to 2021 in the BRICS
Authors: Zhang Zhi-gang , Lin Qing-cheng , Zhou Qing-ying , Xu Nai-fen , Zheng Ding-qin , Pan Qi-zhuang , Wang Xin-jun , Xu Ran 
Published: February 2025

BackgroundThe increasing epidemiological trend of pediatric urolithiasis over the past three decades has brought it to the forefront of public health attention. An analysis of the disease burden in Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa (BRICS) countries, which share common characteristics such as large population base and limited public health resources, will provide an important reference for global public health policy development. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the trend of the prevalence of pediatric urolithiasis in BRICS countries during 1990–2021, which in turn will provide more valuable information for them and the world in the prevention and treatment of pediatric urolithiasis.MethodsIn this study, data were obtained from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) database. The data were then statistically analyzed using the Joinpoint regression model, AutoRegressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) prediction model, and subgroup analysis to assess trends in the prevalence of pediatric urolithiasis.ResultGlobally, the prevalence has been increasing every year, with the greatest increase in the 10–14 age group. Encouragingly, the Age-Standardized Prevalence Rate (ASPR) has shown a decreasing trend. The disease burden of pediatric urolithiasis is higher in India and Russia, with the prevalence in India and ASPR in Russia being the highest in the BRICS countries. In South Africa, there is a clear deficit in prevention and treatment in the 0–4 year age group. Additionally, although the burden of pediatric urolithiasis in Brazil is not currently severe, the trend is the fastest deteriorating among the BRICS countries. Finally, China has made significant progress in the prevention and control of pediatric urolithiasis over the past 30 years and is expected to continue this positive trend over the next 15 years.ConclusionThis in-depth analysis based on GBD 2021 provides a fresh perspective on the evolving burden of pediatric urolithiasis in BRICS countries over the last three decades. Our research provides valuable insights for policy makers and health care providers through in-depth analysis and scientific evaluation of the prevalence of pediatric urolithiasis using different statistical models. In addition, BRICS countries should develop targeted prevention strategies for at-risk populations and ensure the availability of effective treatments that are tailored to their national contexts while also reflecting global health trends and evidence.
Exploration the therapeutic effects of sodium houttuyfonate combined with penicillin G on methicillin resistant staphylococcus aureus infected wounds
Authors: Li Yujie , You Shunjie , Li Sheng , Li Si , Jia Aimin , Xiang Xiaoyan , Shen Shi , Cai Yan 
Published: February 2025

BackgroundMethicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a Gram-positive bacterium that can cause local or systemic infectious diseases, and treatment for MRSA has become a major global health issue. Sodium houttuyfonate (SH) is a natural extract of Houttuynia cordata, which has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. The aim of this study is to evaluate the antibacterial effect of SH combined with penicillin G (PNC) against MRSA and its potential beneficial effects in a rat model of MRSA wound infection, and to investigate its possible mechanism in combination with network pharmacology.MethodsEvaluating the antibacterial effect of drugs through in vitro antibacterial experiments. Construct a MRSA infected wound model in SD rats and determine the optimal drug ratio based on the degree of wound healing. Hematoxylin &amp; Eosin (H&amp;E) staining was used to determine inflammatory cell infiltration, Masson staining was used to observe collagen fiber proliferation in the wound, Elisa method was used to detect inflammatory cytokine content in retrobulbar venous blood, and network pharmacology methods were used to elucidate possible molecular mechanisms.ResultThe MIC of SH and PNC are 60–80 μg/mL and 40–70 U/mL, respectively. The FICI of the combined group is 0.375–0.5625, and the optimal drug ratio is SH20 μg/mL + PNC15u/mL. The number of central granulocytes infiltrated in the combined group was less than that in other groups, and the levels of IL-6 and TNF-α were significantly reduced. In addition, the collagen fibers in the wound were significantly increased. Thirteen target genes were predicted through network pharmacology, among which the core targets were IL1B, IL6, MMP9, IFNG, and TNF. SH and PNG have shown good binding potential with various targets in molecular docking. Among the 83 potential pathways of action, IL-17 signaling pathway is considered a key pathway for promoting wound healing.ConclusionSodium houttuyfonate combined with penicillin G can inhibit bacterial growth in MRSA infected wounds in rats, reduce neutrophil infiltration, promote collagen fiber generation in wounds, and decrease the expression levels of inflammatory factors IL-6 and TNF-α in the blood of rats after MRSA infection. It promotes wound healing through multiple targets and pathways, and preliminarily reveals the drug’s targets and molecular mechanisms.
Metagenomics-based study of rhizospheric microorganisms of Poa alpigena L. in Qinghai Lake, Ganzi River Plateau
Authors: Wei Bo , Xu Qianqian , Kong Junfei , Su Xu , Chen Kelong , Wang Hengsheng 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionPoa alpigena Lindm., a dominant forage grass on the Tibetan Plateau, plays a critical role in livestock production and grassland restoration. This study investigates the rhizospheric and non-rhizospheric soil microorganisms of Poa alpigena L. in the Ganzi River area of the Qinghai Lake basin using metagenomic sequencing to understand their diversity and potential ecological functions.MethodsSoil samples were collected from rhizospheric and non-rhizospheric areas of Poa alpigena L. using the S-type five-point sampling method. DNA was extracted, and metagenomic sequencing was performed using the BGISEQ-500 platform. Alpha and Beta diversity analyses were conducted, and LEfSe analysis was used to identify differentially abundant microbial taxa and metabolic pathways.ResultsA total of 5,681 microbial species across 1,606 genera, 521 families, 61 phyla, and 246 orders were identified. Non-rhizospheric soils exhibited higher species richness than rhizospheric soils. Proteobacteria was the most abundant phylum in both soil types. Rhizospheric soils showed significant enrichment in pathways related to antibiotic biosynthesis, carbon metabolism, and methane metabolism, while non-rhizospheric soils were enriched in quorum sensing and drug-metabolizing pathways.DiscussionThe findings highlight the selective influence of Poa alpigena L. on soil microbial communities and their potential role in mitigating methane emissions. The study provides a foundation for understanding the ecological functions of soil microorganisms in alpine meadows and supports sustainable grassland management practices.
Russia's foreign and security policy in Syria: historical relations, Cold War paradigms, and contemporary geopolitics
Authors: Jorge Trujillo Raquel 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionThis paper examines Russia's diplomatic and security strategy in Syria, placing its engagement in the larger framework of Cold War history and Russian-Syrian ties. The study clarifies how Russia's strategic objectives in the region, especially in connection to its “near abroad” policy, have been molded by the complex historical relationships between Moscow and Damascus.MethodsThe methodology consists in a qualitative approach, applying the security matrix model to the Russian foreign policy in Syria. From a comparative approach, the study draws attention to the similarities between Russia's military activities in Syria and Ukraine, illuminating the intricate relationship between intervention and sovereignty in both situations. The article also critically evaluates how the Kremlin has framed its engagement in Syria as a counterterrorism measure, arguing that this narrative helps to justify its actions both at home and abroad.Results and discussionBy highlighting the connections between historical background, security strategy, and current geopolitical dynamics, the study's findings show that the intervention in Syria is anchored in a deeply rooted policy in Russia, elaborated on a Cold War heritage towards the U.S. and on new concepts of multi-polarity. The study ultimately aims to offer a deeper explanation of Russia's motives in Syria. The paper adds to the discussion of Russian foreign policy and its effects on international relations and regional stability by using this perspective.
The relationship between perceived peer support and academic adjustment among higher vocational college students: the chain mediating effects of academic hope and professional identity
Authors: Zhu Yaoxiu , Lu Haidong , Wang Xinbo , Ma Wenling , Xu Min 
Published: February 2025

PurposeAcademic adjustment is essential for the academic success of higher vocational college students. Although previous research has explored the role of perceived peer support in the academic adjustment of general undergraduate students, its role and underlying mechanisms in this group remain unclear. This study aims to explore the relationship between perceived peer support and academic adjustment, focusing on the chain mediating roles of academic hope and professional identity.MethodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted among 9,075 students from 35 higher vocational colleges across 15 provinces and cities in China, using multi-stage stratified random sampling. Validated scales were used to measure perceived peer support, academic adjustment, academic hope, and professional identity.ResultsThe findings revealed that perceived peer support not only directly influences academic adjustment but also exerts an indirect effect through the individual mediation of academic hope and professional identity, as well as through the sequential mediation from academic hope to professional identity.ConclusionPerceived peer support, academic hope, and professional identity significantly promote academic adjustment among higher vocational college students. These findings provide theoretical insights into the mechanisms of academic adjustment and offer practical implications for educational strategies, emphasizing the importance of fostering perceived peer support, academic hope, and professional identity to enhance students’ academic success.
Factorial validity and measurement invariance of a self-reported scale of paradoxical leadership behaviours: evidence from sport industry leaders
Authors: Bourke Matthew , Cairney John , Richard Veronique , Mulcahy Samantha , Moos Chris , Dopson Sue 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionOrganisational leaders across all sectors are often faced with a dynamic, unpredictable and complex business landscape. Understanding leadership style is integral to optimising leadership and organisational culture and performance. One such leadership style that warrants further investigation is Paradoxical Leadership. This study examines the factorial validity and measurement invariance of a self-report version of the Paradoxical Leadership Scale (PLS) among a diverse sample of sport industry leaders. These sport industry leaders (n = 345) provided a platform to explore paradoxical leadership in a seldom-examined sector.MethodsParticipants were recruited through an online campaign, partnering with the sports media company, SportsPro. Factorial validity of the self-reported PLS was examined using Exploratory Structural Equation Modelling (ESEM), and measurement invariance testing was conducted using Multiple Indicator Multiple Causes (MIMIC) modelling across demographic and contextual factors.ResultsResults confirmed the second-order five factor model as the best fit, with partial deviations in item loadings but maintaining overall structural integrity. The scale showed full invariance across managerial levels, experience, gender, and regions, with partial invariance across age groups, indicating its robust applicability.DiscussionThis is the first study to explore the factorial validity and measurement invariance of a modified, self-report scale measuring paradoxical leadership behaviours in a diverse sample of sport leaders. The findings support the use of this scale for both research and practical application in this context. Further research applying this scale across sectors is recommended.
Clinical characteristics of depressed children and adolescents with and without suicidal thoughts and behavior: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Häberling I. , Preisig M. , Emery S. , Baumgartner N. , Albermann M. , Strumberger M. , Schmeck K. , Wöckel L. , Erb S. , Rhiner B. , Contin B. , Walitza S. , Berger G. 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionAbout half of all adolescents with major depressive disorder (MDD) have frequent suicidal thoughts and of those with suicidal ideations, about one-third attempt suicide. Identifying clinical characteristics associated with suicidal ideation and attempts is important for suicide prevention and clinical care.MethodsParticipants were four groups of adolescents diagnosed with MDD (n = 246, 180 females): (a) non-suicidal youths (n = 76), (b) ideators (n = 102; current suicidal ideation), (c) ideator-attempters (n = 56; current suicidal ideation and lifetime history of suicide attempt), and (d) lifetime attempters (n = 12; no current suicidal ideation but lifetime history of suicide attempt). Adolescents underwent clinical interviews and completed questionnaires assessing sociodemographic and clinical variables. Multivariate analyses of variance, logistic regression models, mediation and moderation analyses were run to assess which variables were associated with group membership.ResultsSuicidal ideators, irrespective of whether they had attempted suicide previously, had higher depression severity, higher anxiety and lower resilience compared to non-ideators. Hopelessness was associated with greater odds of being a suicidal ideator (p &lt; .001, OR = 1.18) or an ideator-attempter (p = 0.036, OR = 1.13) than a non-suicidal youth. Attempter-ideators engaged more often in self-harm behavior compared to ideators (p = 0.046, OR = 1.13) and non-suicidal youths (p &lt; .001, OR = 1.45). Ideator-attempters had experienced more childhood maltreatment, with hopelessness mediating the relationship between childhood maltreatment and suicidal ideation. Self-harm moderated the relationship between suicidal ideation and the probability of having made a suicide attempt.LimitationsOnly cross-sectional data was included, and data was based mostly on self-report measures.ConclusionsSuicidal thoughts are associated with increases in hopelessness while suicide attempts are linked to non-suicidal self-harm behavior. Treatment of non-suicidal self-harm behavior might be an effective suicide prevention strategy in young people with depression.Clinical Trial Registrationwww.ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier (NCT03167307).