Within the fields of infectious disease diagnostics, microfluidic-based integrated technology systems have become a vital technology in enhancing the rapidity, accuracy, and portability of pathogen detection. These systems synergize microfluidic techniques with advanced molecular biology methods, including reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR), have been successfully used to identify a diverse array of pathogens, including COVID-19, Ebola, Zika, and dengue fever. This review outlines the advances in pathogen detection, attributing them to the integration of microfluidic technology with traditional molecular biology methods and smartphone- and paper-based diagnostic assays. The cutting-edge diagnostic technologies are of critical importance for disease prevention and epidemic surveillance. Looking ahead, research is expected to focus on increasing detection sensitivity, streamlining testing processes, reducing costs, and enhancing the capability for remote data sharing. These improvements aim to achieve broader coverage and quicker response mechanisms, thereby constructing a more robust defense for global public health security. Full article

Hemodynamics in intracranial aneurysm strongly depends on the non-Newtonian blood behavior due to the large number of suspended cells and the ability of red blood cells to deform and aggregate. However, most numerical investigations on intracranial hemodynamics adopt the Newtonian hypothesis to model blood flow and predict aneurysm occlusion. The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of the blood rheological model on the hemodynamics of intracranial aneurysms in the presence or absence of endovascular treatment. A numerical investigation was performed under pulsatile flow conditions in a patient-specific aneurysm with and without the insertion of an appropriately reconstructed flow diverter stent (FDS). The numerical simulations were performed using Newtonian and non-Newtonian assumptions for blood rheology. In all cases, FDS placement reduced the intra-aneurysmal velocity and increased the relative residence time (RRT) on the aneurysmal wall, indicating progressive thrombus formation and aneurysm occlusion. However, the Newtonian model largely overestimated RRT values and consequent aneurysm healing with respect to the non-Newtonian models. Due to the non-Newtonian blood properties and the large discrepancy between Newtonian and non-Newtonian simulations, the Newtonian hypothesis should not be used in the study of the hemodynamics of intracranial aneurysm, especially in the presence of endovascular treatment. Full article

The reconstruction of structural subassemblies in historic buildings is a widely debated topic that often arises throughout a building’s lifespan. The most vulnerable structures and, consequently, the most frequently modified are roofs, due to the materials used, which render them susceptible to biological decay or fire. This paper aims to analyse roof reconstructions across various historical periods and under different circumstances depending on the necessity for construction or reconstruction. Several exceptional reconstructions from Europe are examined, where the final solution was determined based on sustainability criteria from the construction period. Wood in roof trusses is often replaced with alternative materials such as metal or reinforced concrete. In the case of the Evangelical Church in Bistrița, destroyed by fire for the second time in 2008, the solution of replication using wood was adopted, and the wooden elements were calculated for fire resistance, according to the Eurocodes. Another important aspect to consider when constructing new roofs is the need for protective or temporary roof structures, where sustainability and reusability are fundamental requirements. The principles used to choose the covering method were different depending on the reconstruction period. Three analysis criteria were defined to compare historical solutions with current sustainability principles in the reconstruction and construction of new roofs for existing buildings. Full article

The gut microbiota plays a pivotal role in maintaining the dynamic balance of intestinal epithelial and immune cells, crucial for overall organ homeostasis. Dysfunctions in these intricate relationships can lead to inflammation and contribute to the pathogenesis of various diseases. Recent findings uncovered the existence of a gut–muscle axis, revealing how alterations in the gut microbiota can disrupt regulatory mechanisms in muscular and adipose tissues, triggering immune-mediated inflammation. In the context of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), alterations in intestinal permeability stand as a potential origin of molecules that could trigger muscle degeneration via various pathways. Metabolites produced by gut bacteria, or fragments of bacteria themselves, may have the ability to migrate from the gut into the bloodstream and ultimately infiltrate distant muscle tissues, exacerbating localized pathologies. These insights highlight alternative pathological pathways in DMD beyond the musculoskeletal system, paving the way for nutraceutical supplementation as a potential adjuvant therapy. Understanding the complex interplay between the gut microbiota, immune system, and muscular health offers new perspectives for therapeutic interventions beyond conventional approaches to efficiently counteract the multifaceted nature of DMD. Full article

Extended Reality (XR), an umbrella term for Augmented Reality (AR), Mixed Reality (MR), and Virtual Reality (VR) technology, has the potential to enhance experiential learning and to close educational gaps, but the implementation of XR in higher education requires the competency of instructors, as well as guidance. In the fields of design (architecture, landscape architecture, interior design, urban planning, etc.), XR brings exciting opportunities to students for design visualization and presentation. However, how the XR-based immersive experience may supplement design learning is relatively underexplored and under-researched. This study investigates the role of co-created (with learners) VR modules in landscape architecture education, with a specific focus on landscape construction through an exercise focused on the construction detail of the iconic benches in the High Line Park (NY). This study aims to delineate the pedagogical possibilities and challenges of the implementation of XR in landscape architecture (LA) curricula, thereby offering LA educators actionable insights and frameworks for utilizing the new learning tools. Implementing a mixed methods approach, this research engaged undergraduate students (n = 16) to assess the pedagogical value of XR among five types of instructional modes—lectures, hand sketching, 2D drawing, 3D modeling, and a fully immersive co-created VR experience showcasing students’ work. A focus group discussion with graduate students (n = 7) provided additional qualitative insights. The results indicate that, while all instructional materials were received positively, the 3D modeling was rated most effective in the learning process by the students, due to its versatility as a foundation and its overlap/integration with the other instructional modes e.g., hand sketching, 2D drawing, and VR creation. Although VR-aided teaching creates an immersive learning experience allowing learners to gain a clearer understanding of the learning topics, positioning it primarily as a visualization/presentation tool may limit its utility. This study concludes that repositioning VR at different stages of the educational framework may result in enhanced engagement and, by extension, improve its pedagogical effectiveness. These findings contribute to the ongoing discourse on the optimal integration of emerging XR tools and technology in LA education and other design disciplines and afford new avenues for future research. Full article

The pathophysiology of Lyme disease, especially in its persistent form, remains to be determined. As many of the neurologic symptoms are similar to those seen in other toxin-associated disorders, a hypothesis was generated that B. burgdorferi, the causative agent of Lyme disease, may produce a neurotoxin to account for some of the symptoms. Using primers against known conserved bacterial toxin groups, and PCR technology, a candidate neurotoxin was discovered. The purified protein was temporarily named BbTox, and was subsequently found to be identical to BB0755, a protein deduced from the genome sequence of B. burgdorferi that has been annotated as a Z ribonuclease. BbTox has cytotoxic activity against cells of neural origin in tissue culture. Its toxic activity appears to be directed against cytoskeletal elements, similar to that seen with toxins of Clostridioides difficile and Clostridioides botulinum, but differing from that of cholera and E. coli toxins, and other toxins. It remains to be determined whether BbTox has direct cytotoxic effects on neural or glial cells in vivo, or its activity is primarily that of a ribonuclease analogous to other bacterial ribonucleases that are involved in antibiotic tolerance remains to be determined. Full article

In this review, the principles of gas-phase proton basicity measurements and theoretical calculations are recalled as a reminder of how the basicity PA/GB scale, based on Brønsted–Lowry theory, was constructed in the gas-phase (PA—proton affinity and/or GB—gas-phase basicity in the enthalpy and Gibbs energy scale, respectively). The origins of exceptionally strong gas-phase basicity of some organic nitrogen bases containing N-sp³ (amines), N-sp² (imines, amidines, guanidines, polyguanides, phosphazenes), and N-sp (nitriles) are rationalized. In particular, the role of push–pull nitrogen bases in the development of the gas-phase basicity in the superbasicity region is emphasized. Some reasons for the difficulties in measurements for poly-functional nitrogen bases are highlighted. Various structural phenomena being in relation with gas-phase acid–base equilibria that should be considered in quantum-chemical calculations of PA/GB parameters are discussed. The preparation methods for strong organic push–pull bases containing a N-sp² site of protonation are briefly reviewed. Finally, recent trends in research on neutral organic superbases, leaning toward catalytic and other remarkable applications, are underlined. Full article

Background: Breast cancer (BC) remains heterogeneous in terms of prognosis and response to treatment. Metabolic reprogramming is a critical part of oncogenesis and a potential therapeutic target. Glutaminase (GLS), which generates glutamate from glutamine, plays a role in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). However, targeting GLS directly may be difficult, as it is essential for normal cell function. This study aimed to determine potential targets in BC associated with glutamine metabolism and evaluate their prognostic value in BC. Methods: The iNET model was used to identify genes in BC that are associated with GLS using RNA-sequencing data. The prognostic significance of tripartite motif-containing 2 (TRIM2) mRNA was assessed in BC transcriptomic data (n = 16,575), and TRIM2 protein expression was evaluated using immunohistochemistry (n = 749) in patients with early-stage invasive breast cancer with long-term follow-up. The associations between TRIM2 expression and clinicopathological features and patient outcomes were evaluated. Results: Pathway analysis identified TRIM2 expression as an important gene co-expressed with high GLS expression in BC. High TRIM2 mRNA and TRIM2 protein expression were associated with TNBC (p < 0.01). TRIM2 was a predictor of poor distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS) in TNBC (p < 0.01), and this was independent of established prognostic factors (p < 0.05), particularly in those who received chemotherapy (p < 0.05). In addition, TRIM2 was a predictor of shorter DMFS in TNBC treated with chemotherapy (p < 0.01). Conclusions: This study provides evidence of an association between TRIM2 and poor patient outcomes in TNBC, especially those treated with chemotherapy. The molecular mechanisms and functional behaviour of TRIM2 and the functional link with GLS in BC warrant further exploration using in vitro models. Full article

Offshore wind power stands out as a promising renewable energy source, offering substantial potential for achieving low carbon emissions and enhancing energy security. Despite its potential, the expansion of offshore wind power faces considerable constraints in offshore power transmission. Hydrogen production derived from offshore wind power emerges as an efficient solution to overcome these limitations and effectively transport energy. This study systematically devises diverse hydrogen energy supply chains tailored to the demands of the transportation and chemical industries, meticulously assessing the levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH). Our findings reveal that the most cost-efficient means of transporting hydrogen to the mainland is through pipelines, particularly when the baseline distance is 50 km and the baseline electricity price is 0.05 USD/kWh. Notably, delivering hydrogen directly to the port via pipelines for chemical industries proves considerably more economical than distributing it to hydrogen refueling stations, with a minimal cost of 3.6 USD/kg. Additionally, we assessed the levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH) for supply chains that transmit electricity to ports via submarine cables before hydrogen production and subsequent distribution to chemical plants. In comparison to offshore hydrogen production routes, these routes exhibit higher costs and reduced competitiveness. Finally, a sensitivity analysis was undertaken to scrutinize the impact of delivery distance and electricity prices on LCOH. The outcomes underscore the acute sensitivity of LCOH to power prices, highlighting the potential for substantial reductions in hydrogen prices through concerted efforts to lower electricity costs. Full article

Infants and young animals often suffer from intestinal damage caused by oxidative stress, which may adversely affect their overall health. Hydroxytyrosol, a plant polyphenol, has shown potential in decreasing intestinal oxidative stress, but its application and mechanism of action in infants and young animals are still inadequately documented. This study selected piglets as a model to investigate the alleviating effects of hydroxytyrosol on intestinal oxidative stress induced by diquat and its potential mechanism. Hydroxytyrosol improved intestinal morphology, characterized by higher villus height and villus height/crypt depth. Meanwhile, hydroxytyrosol led to higher expression of Occludin, MUC2, Nrf2, and its downstream genes, and lower expression of cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α. Both oxidative stress and hydroxytyrosol resulted in a higher abundance of Clostridium_sensu_stricto_1, and a lower abundance of Lactobacillus and Streptococcus, without a significant effect on short-chain fatty acids levels. Oxidative stress also led to disorders in bile acid (BA) metabolism, such as the lower levels of primary BAs, hyocholic acid, hyodeoxycholic acid, and tauroursodeoxycholic acid, which were partially restored by hydroxytyrosol. Correlation analysis revealed a positive correlation between these BA levels and the expression of Nrf2 and its downstream genes. Collectively, hydroxytyrosol may reduce oxidative stress-induced intestinal damage by regulating BA metabolism. Full article

Ugni candollei, commonly known as white murta, is a native Chilean berry with a polyphenol composition that has been underexplored. This study aimed to establish a comprehensive profile of white murta polyphenols using ultra-performance liquid chromatography electrospray ionization Orbitrap mass spectrometry (UPLC-ESI-ORBITRAP MS). Additionally, it compared the efficacy of conventional extraction methods with emerging techniques such as deep eutectic solvent (DES) extraction and hot pressurized water extraction (HPWE). The analysis tentatively identified 107 phenolic compounds (84 of them reported for the first time for this cultivar), including 25 phenolic acids, 37 anthocyanins, and 45 flavonoids. Among the prominent and previously unreported polyphenols are ellagic acid acetyl-xyloside, 3-p-coumaroylquinic acid, cyanidin 3-O-(6′-caffeoyl-glucoside, and phloretin 2′-O-xylosyl-glucoside. The study found HPWE to be a promising alternative to traditional extraction of hydroxybenzoic acids, while DES extraction was less effective across all categories. The findings reveal that white murta possesses diverse phenolic compounds, potentially linked to various biological activities. Full article

The pyrodiversity–biodiversity (P–B) hypothesis posits that spatiotemporally variable fire regimes increase wildlife habitat diversity, and that the fine-grained mosaics resulting from small patchy fires enhance biodiversity. This logic underpins the patch mosaic burning (PMB) paradigm and reinforces the benefits of Indigenous fire management, which tends to promote pyrodiversity. However, tests of the P–B hypothesis and PMB paradigm are few. One of the most comprehensive field evaluations—a snapshot study of pre-existing fire mosaics in south-east Australian semi-arid mallee eucalypt woodlands—found little support. To explore the longer-term effects of fire mosaic grain size on habitat availability and biodiversity, we combined published data from the mallee study with a simple fire simulation. We simulated 500 years of landscape burning under different fire sizes. In the resulting mosaics, we assessed the proportional mixture and patch configuration of successional habitat states, then summarised habitat availability through time using a composite index based on the published fire history responses of 22 vertebrate taxa from the mallee study. Small fires formed fine-grained mosaics with a stable habitat mixture and with habitat diversity occurring at fine scales. Large fires formed coarse-grained mosaics with the opposite properties. The fine-grained mosaics maintained optimal habitat availability for vertebrate diversity over 500 years, while the fluctuating habitat mixture in the coarse-grained mosaics was unlikely to maintain maximum vertebrate diversity. Broadly, our results support the P–B hypothesis and justify further field-testing and evaluation of PMB programs to manage both pyrodiversity and biodiversity in the mallee and other flammable landscapes. Full article

Introduction: With the popularity of clear aligners, the sequential distalization protocol has been more commonly used for molar distalization. However, the amount of molar distalization that can be achieved, as well as the accompanying side effects on the sagittal dimension, are unclear. Methods: Registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023447211), relevant original studies were screened from seven databases (MEDLINE [PubMed], EBSCOhost, Web of Science, Elsevier [SCOPUS], Cochrane, LILACS [Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature], and Google Scholar) supplemented by a manual search of the references of the full-reading manuscripts by two investigators independently. A risk of bias assessment was conducted, relevant data were extracted, and meta-analysis was performed using RStudio. Results: After the screening, 13 articles (11 involving maxillary distalization, two involving mandibular distalization) met the inclusion criteria. All studies had a high or medium risk of bias. The meta-analysis revealed that the maxillary first molar (U6) mesiobuccal cusp was distalized 2.07 mm [1.38 mm, 2.77 mm] based on the post-distalization dental model superimposition, and the U6 crown was distalized 2.00 mm [0.77 mm, 3.24 mm] based on the post-treatment lateral cephalometric evaluation. However, the U6 mesiobuccal root showed less distalization of 1.13 mm [−1.34 mm, 3.60 mm], indicating crown distal tipping, which was validated by meta-analysis (U6-PP angle: 2.19° [1.06°, 3.33°]). In addition, intra-arch anchorage loss was observed at the post-distalization time point (U1 protrusion: 0.39 mm [0.27 mm, 0.51 mm]), which was corrected at the post-treatment time point (incisal edge-PTV distance: −1.50 mm [−2.61 mm, −0.39 mm]). Conclusion: About 2 mm maxillary molar distalization can be achieved with the sequential distalization protocol, accompanied by slight molar crown distal tipping. Additional studies on this topic are needed due to the high risk of bias in currently available studies. Full article

The aim of this research was to investigate the effects of different stretching techniques used during warm-up exercises prior to post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE) on the explosive lower extremity strength performance of soccer players. This cross-sectional study involved the participation of 13 male soccer players with an average age of 22.38 ± 1.75, body height of 174.38 ± 3.94, and body mass of 72.30 ± 4.13. To determine the participants’ maximal strength performance, one repeated maximal strength (1-RM) squat exercise was applied. The PAPE protocol was then implemented with a squat exercise consisting of three repetitions at 80% of 1-RM. The warm-up protocols consisted of 5 min of cycling, followed by dynamic stretching, static stretching, or proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) stretching exercises. These protocols were applied on four different days with a 72 h interval. A vertical jump test was conducted to measure the participants’ explosive strength performance. The research data were analyzed using IBM Statistics (SPSS version 26.0, Armonk, NY, USA) software. The findings of this study revealed statistically significant differences in vertical jump performance values after PAPE among participants based on the different stretching techniques used during warm-up (p = 0.00). In this context, the research concluded that dynamic stretching is the optimal stretching technique during warm-up exercises before PAPE to maximize its effects. On the other hand, static stretching was found to negatively affect performance by absorbing the PAPE effect. Full article

Sézary syndrome (SS) is a rare primary cutaneous T-cell lymphoma variant. Despite various treatment options, it remains incurable, with a poor prognosis. There is an urgent need for additional descriptive research to enhance our understanding and treatment of SS. The aim of this retrospective register-based study was to outline patients’ demographic characteristics; investigate the clinical, histopathological, and molecular findings; and assess treatment effectiveness with a focus on time to next treatment (TTNT) and disease progression. Data on 17 patients with SS were obtained from the primary cutaneous lymphoma register in West Sweden between 2012 and 2024. The results revealed that not all patients exhibited the classical triad of symptoms at diagnosis, emphasizing the need for personalized diagnostic approaches. The median survival was only 2.1 years, which reflects the aggressive nature of SS. The longest median TTNT was observed in triple therapy involving retinoids, interferon alpha, and extracorporeal photopheresis (ECP). There was no significant difference in TTNT between various lines of treatment. Early initiation of ECP treatment did not result in improved outcomes. This study highlights the importance of combination therapy for improved outcomes and underscores the need for future studies to identify optimal treatment approaches. Full article

‘Ruixue’ apples were used as the test material to study the effect of 10 μM methyl jasmonate (MeJA) on the quality and cell wall metabolism of apples after 18 d of storage. The results showed that MeJA significantly decreased the respiratory rate, reduced the titratable acid content and maintained a high soluble solids content. MeJA has been shown to suppress the activities and gene expressions of WSP, CSP, ISP, and cellulose in contrast to the control group, thereby maintaining a lower cell permeability and higher exocarp firmness. MeJA significantly decreased the expression of MdACS, MdACO, MdPL, Mdgal, and MdPG genes in the apple exocarp when compared to the control group. In addition, the overexpression of MdPL18 increased the content of cell wall polysaccharides such as WSP and CSP, enhanced cell wall-degrading enzyme activities, and accelerated fruit ripening and softening, whereas silencing MdPL18 did the opposite. Together, these results demonstrate that exogenous MeJA maintains the Ruixue apple fruit quality by regulating the metabolism of cell wall substances. Full article

Jordan faces significant, immediate challenges of enhancing energy security while mitigating greenhouse gas emissions. One of the most promising approaches to achieve sustainable development, energy security, and environmental conservation is to increase the integration of renewable energy into electricity generation. To this end, the Jordanian government aims to expand investments in the green energy sector, with solar and wind energy expected to play a crucial role in meeting energy demands and promoting environmental sustainability. This paper aims to examine the distinct dynamics, challenges, obstacles, and potential solutions related to establishing community solar and wind farms in suburban areas of Jordan. It seeks to highlight the opportunities and barriers influencing the adoption of sustainable energy in the country. Evaluation results from engaging 320 key stakeholders were obtained through a questionnaire, and after comprehensive analysis, it became evident that the benefits and positive aspects of solar and wind farms outweigh their drawbacks and obstacles. These insights can be useful in guiding policies and practices to make renewable energy community projects a reality within Jordan’s suburban areas. Additionally, the findings may serve as a valuable benchmark for other regions facing similar challenges in their pursuit of a sustainable energy future. Full article

Fluorescent gold nanoclusters (AuNCs) have shown promise as metal ion sensors. Further research into surface ligands is crucial for developing sensors that are both selective and sensitive. Here, we designed simple tripeptides to form fluorescent AuNCs, capitalizing on tyrosine’s reduction capability under alkaline conditions. We investigated tyrosine’s role in both forming AuNCs and sensing metal ions. Two tripeptides, tyrosine–cysteine–tyrosine (YCY) and serine–cysteine–tyrosine (SCY), were used to form AuNCs. YCY peptides produced AuNCs with blue and red fluorescence, while SCY peptides produced blue-emitting AuNCs. The blue fluorescence of YCY- and SCY-AuNCs was selectively quenched by Fe³⁺ and Cu²⁺, whereas red-emitting YCY-AuNC fluorescence remained stable with 13 different metal ions. The number of tyrosine residues influenced the sensor response. DLS measurements revealed different aggregation propensities in the presence of various metal ions, indicating that chelation between the peptide and target ions led to aggregation and fluorescence quenching. Highlighting the innovation of our approach, our study demonstrates the feasibility of the rational design of peptides for the formation of fluorescent AuNCs that serve as highly selective and sensitive surface ligands for metal ion sensing. This method marks an advancement over existing methods due to its dual capability in both synthesizing gold nanoclusters and detecting analytes, specifically Fe³⁺ and Cu²⁺. Full article

Introduction: Descending necrotizing mediastinitis is one of the most lethal forms of acute mediastinitis. It originates from an odontogenic or deep neck infection, which descends to the mediastinum through the fascial planes. It is a rare condition, but mortality rates remain high, especially in the presence of comorbidities or predisposing factors. Delay in diagnosis has been shown to be one of the most important factors for the disease outcome. Therefore, early diagnosis and treatment by a multidisciplinary team are of utmost importance. Case series: Four healthy young males with descending necrotizing mediastinitis were treated at our institution. None of them had any comorbidities, but all of them waited between 3 and 4 days before seeking medical help. Upon their arrival at the hospital, in addition to the presence of a severe neck infection, the presence of mediastinitis was also found. Despite the timely surgical treatment of both the source of the infection and the mediastinitis, three of the four cases had a fatal outcome. Conclusion: We believe that the time factor is of greater importance for the outcome of acute descending mediastinitis than the factors of age and presence of accompanying diseases. Proper and rapid treatment by a multidisciplinary team is essential, even for young and healthy people. Full article

The parameters of the roll characteristics of a large-scale round bale machine were collected in real time to investigate the bale rolling mechanism. This investigation develops a set of adaptable and highly integrated data acquisition systems for the bale rolling performance parameters of large-type round bale machines. A rolling experiment is conducted using sunflower straw as the material, and the power consumption and radial tension of the roller-round bale machine during the bale rolling process are studied. In the grass core formation stage, the round bale machine’s torque need was minimal, the radial tension of the bale remained nearly constant, and the bale chamber was primarily filled with loose sunflower straw. The motor torque and the straw bale’s radial tension both showed a tendency of gradual increase when the round bale machine was in the grass-filling stage. The motor torque and bale radial tension displayed a roughly linear trend of rapid rise as the sunflower straw continued to enter the rolling bale chamber; this was when the round bale machine was in the compressed bale rolling stage. When the power consumption of the round bale machine was measured using the data acquisition system during the test bench empty run and core-creation stage, the energy consumption comparison analysis produced a relative error of 5.8%. During the stage of bale rolling and compression, the data acquisition system monitored the power consumption of the round bale machine. The relative error was 9.5%. The data acquisition system of the round bale machine test bed has an accuracy of 90.5%–94.2% when measuring the machine’s power consumption, indicating that it is a stable and efficient system. This study provides a foundation for further research on intelligent the roller-round bale machine. Full article

Chronic school absenteeism is a common problem in childhood and adolescence, and it is frequently observed in patients with somatic symptom and related disorders (SSRDs). This study aimed to determine whether and to what extent the presence of school absenteeism may be a risk factor for the diagnosis of SSRDs in hospitalised patients. This matched cohort study included children and adolescents aged between 8 and 17 years, admitted to the paediatric ward of the IRCCS Burlo Garofolo in Trieste from 2021 to 2023, who were divided into two groups, the first including children with at least 15 days of absence from school for medical reasons and the second including children with regular school attendance, matched to the former group by age and sex. We consecutively enrolled 70 patients, 35 in the absentee group and 35 in the control group. In the absentee group, 30/35 (85.7%) patients were diagnosed with an SSRD, while in the control group, 1/35 (2.9%) was diagnosed with an SSRD. The absentee group had a 30-fold higher risk of being diagnosed with SSRDs than the control group (RR = 30 [95% CI = 4.3–208]; p < 0.001). This study shows that in hospitalised children, a history of school absenteeism of more than two weeks is an important risk factor for the diagnosis of SSRDs. Full article

Gastrointestinal tract perforation is uncommon in children, accounting for <10% of cases of blunt abdominal trauma. Diagnosis of bowel perforation in children can be challenging due to poor diagnostic imaging accuracy. Intra-abdominal free air is found only in half of the children with bowel perforation. Ultrasound findings are nonspecific and suspicious for perforation in only two-thirds of cases. A computer tomography (CT) scan has a sensitivity and specificity of 50% and 95%, respectively. Surgical decisions should be made based on clinical examination despite normal CT results. Management of bowel perforation in children includes primary repair in 50–70% and resection with anastomosis in 20–40% of cases. Full article