Laminin γ1-dependent basement membranes are instrumental to ensure proper olfactory placode shape, position and boundary with the brain, as well as olfactory axon development.

Despite recent progress, the complex roles played by the extracellular matrix in development and disease are still far from being fully understood. Here, we took advantage of the zebrafish sly mutation which affects Laminin γ1, a major component of basement membranes, to explore its role in the development of the olfactory system. Following a detailed characterisation of Laminin distribution in the developing olfactory circuit, we analysed basement membrane integrity, olfactory placode and brain morphogenesis, and olfactory axon development in sly mutants, using a combination of immunochemistry, electron microscopy and quantitative live imaging of cell movements and axon behaviours. Our results point to an original and dual contribution of Laminin γ1-dependent basement membranes in organising the border between the olfactory placode and the adjacent brain: they maintain placode shape and position in the face of major brain morphogenetic movements, they establish a robust physical barrier between the two tissues while at the same time allowing the local entry of the sensory axons into the brain and their navigation towards the olfactory bulb. This work thus identifies key roles of Laminin γ1-dependent basement membranes in neuronal tissue morphogenesis and axon development in vivo .

Intramammary administration of lipopolysaccharides at parturition does not affect the transfer of passive immunity in goat kids.

This study evaluated the effect of feeding colostrum obtained from an intramammary administration (IA) of LPS from Escherichia coli (O55:B5) to dairy goats at parturition, on goat kids performance, biochemical parameters (i.e., calcium, LDH, glucose, total proteins, albumin, and urea) and immune status (i.e., IgG and IgM) during the first month of life. At birth, goat kids were weighted (d 0) and immediately allocated into either the LPS group (n = 15) or the CON group (n = 21) based on the experimental group of the dam. At parturition, 20 multiparous dairy goats were allocated in one of the 2 experimental groups (LPS vs. CON). The LPS group received an IA of saline solution (2 mL) containing 50 µg of LPS in each half udder whereas goats in the CON group received an IA of saline solution (2 mL) without LPS. Goat kids were bottle-fed dam colostrum equivalent to 10% of the birth BW divided in 2 meals (i.e., at 3 and 12 h relative to birth), and then fed twice daily with milk replacer ad libitum. Individual milk intake (MI) and BW were recorded on d 7, 15, 21 and 30 of life. Blood samples were collected on d 0, 1, 2, 4, 7, 15, 21 and 30 after birth. Data was analyzed using the MIXED procedure of SAS (9.4). The model included IA, time (T) and the interaction (IA x T) as fixed effects and sex and litter size as random effects. Both groups showed similar MI, except on d 7 relative to birth as the LPS group showed higher MI than the CON group (910.5 ± 69.77 and 683.9 ± 59.64 mL, respectively). No differences in BW or rectal temperature were observed between groups, neither in plasma IgG nor IgM concentrations. Despite the IA did not affect calcium, glucose, LDH, total protein, and albumin concentrations an interaction between the IA and T was observed for urea concentration, showing the LPS group higher urea concentrations than the CON group on d 0 (20.1 ± 1.34 and 20.0 ± 1.25 mg/dL, respectively). In conclusion, feeding colostrum from goats that received an IA of LPS at parturition does not affect goat kid performance, plasma immunoglobulin concentrations and serum metabolites during the first month of life.

Global assessment of the knowledge and confidence in managing allergic disorders among primary care pediatricians across Europe: An EAACI task force report.

BACKGROUND: Pediatricians are often the first point of contact for children in Primary Care (PC), but still perceive gaps in their allergy knowledge. We investigated self-perceived knowledge gaps and educational needs in pediatricians across healthcare systems in Europe so that future educational initiatives may better support the delivery of allergy services in PC. METHOD: A multinational survey was circulated to pediatricians who care for children and adolescents with allergy problems in PC by the EAACI Allergy Educational Needs in Primary Care Pediatricians Task Force from February to March 2023. A 5-point Likert scale was used to assess the level of agreement with questionnaire statements. Thirty surveys per country were the cut-off for inclusion and statistical analysis. RESULTS: In this study, 1991 respondents were obtained from 56 countries across Europe and 210 responses were from countries with a cut-off below 30 participants per country. Primary care pediatricians (PCPs) comprised 74.4% of the respondents. The majority (65.3%) were contracted to state or district health services. 61.7% had awareness of guidelines for onward allergy referral in their countries but only 22.3% were aware of the EAACI competencies document for allied health professionals for allergy. Total sample respondents versus PCPs showed 52% and 47% of them have access to allergy investigations in their PC facility (mainly specific IgE and skin prick tests); 67.6% and 58.9% have access to immunotherapy, respectively. The main barrier to referral to a specialist was a consideration that the patient's condition could be diagnosed and treated in this PC facility, (57.8% and 63.6% respectively). The main reasons for referral were the need for hospital assessment, and partial response to first-line treatment (55.4% and 59.2%, 47% and 50.7%, respectively). Learning and assessment methods preference was fairly equally divided between Traditional methods (45.7% and 50.1% respectively) and e-learning 45.5% and 44.9%, respectively. Generalist physicians (GPs) have the poorest access to allergy investigations (32.7%, p = .000). The majority of the total sample (91.9%) assess patients with allergic pathology. 868 (43.6%) and 1117 (46.1%), received allergy training as undergraduates and postgraduates respectively [these proportions in PCPs were higher (45% and 59%), respectively]. PCPs with a special interest in allergology experienced greater exposure to allergy teaching as postgraduates. GPs received the largest amount of allergy teaching as undergraduates. Identifying allergic disease based on clinical presentation, respondents felt most confident in the management of eczema/atopic dermatitis (87.4%) and rhinitis/asthma (86.2%), and least confident in allergen immunotherapy (36.9%) and latex allergy (30.8%). CONCLUSION: This study exploring the confidence of PCPs to diagnose, manage, and refer patients with allergies, demonstrated knowledge gaps and educational needs for allergy clinical practice. It detects areas in need of urgent improvement especially in latex and allergen immunotherapy. It is important to ensure the dissemination of allergy guidelines and supporting EAACI documents since the majority of PCPs lack awareness of them. This survey has enabled us to identify what the educational priorities of PCPs are and how they would like to have them met.

Blood lead levels in an endangered vulture decline following changes in hunting activity.

Lead ammunition stands out as one of the most pervasive pollutants affecting wildlife. Its impact on bird populations have spurred efforts for the phase-out of leaded gunshot in several countries, although with varying scopes and applications. Ongoing and future policy changes require data to assess the effectiveness of adopted measures, particularly in the current context of biodiversity loss. Here, we assessed the long-term changes in blood lead (Pb) levels of Egyptian vultures from the Canary Islands, Spain, which have been severely affected by Pb poisoning over the past two decades. During this period, the reduction in hunting pressure and changes in legislation regarding firearms usage for small game hunting likely contributed to a decrease in environmental Pb availability. As anticipated, our results show a reduction in Pb levels, especially after the ban on wild rabbit hunting with shotgun since 2010. This effect was stronger in the preadult fraction of the vulture population. However, we still observed elevated blood Pb levels above the background and clinical thresholds in 5.6% and 1.5% of individuals, respectively. Our results highlight the positive impact of reducing the availability of Pb from ammunition sources on individual health. Nonetheless, the continued use of Pb gunshot remains an important source of poisoning, even lethal, mainly affecting adult individuals. This poses a particular concern for long-lived birds, compounding by potential chronic effects associated with Pb bioaccumulation. Our findings align with recent studies indicating insufficient reductions in Pb levels among European birds of prey, attributed to limited policy changes and their uneven implementation. We anticipated further reductions in Pb levels among Egyptian vultures with expanded restrictions on hunting practices, including a blanket ban on Pb shot usage across all small game species.

Correction: Inkjet-printed O2 gas sensors in intelligent packaging.

Correction for 'Inkjet-printed O2 gas sensors in intelligent packaging' by M. D. Fernández-Ramos et al., Analyst, 2021, 146, 3177-3184, https://doi.org/10.1039/D1AN00295C.

Intramammary administration of lipopolysaccharides at parturition enhances immunoglobulin concentration in goat colostrum.

In newborn ruminants, transfer of passive immunity is essential to obtain protection against pathogens. This study aimed to increase the permeability of the blood-milk barrier using intramammary lipopolysaccharides (LPS) in goats at parturition to modulate colostrum composition. Twenty multiparous Majorera dairy goats were randomly allocated in one of the two experimental groups. The LPS group (n = 10) received an intramammary administration (IA) of saline (2 mL) containing 50 µg of LPS from Escherichia coli (O55:B5) in each half udder at parturition. The control group (n = 10) received an IA of saline (2 mL). Rectal temperature (RT) was recorded, and a blood sample was collected at parturition (before IA). In addition, RT was measured, and blood and colostrum/milk samples were collected on day (d) 0.125 (3 hours), 0.5 (12 hours), 1, 2, 4, 7, 15 and 30 relative to the IA. Goat plasma immunoglobulin G (IgG) and M (IgM) and serum ß-hydroxybutyrate, glucose, calcium, free fatty acids, lactate dehydrogenase and total protein concentrations were determined. Colostrum and milk yields as well as chemical composition, somatic cell count (SCC), IgG and IgM concentrations were measured. The MIXED procedure (SAS 9.4) was used, and the model included the IA, time, and the interaction between both fixed effects. Statistical significance was set as P < 0.05. Goats from the LPS group showed higher RT on d 0.125, 0.5 and 4 relative to the IA compared to the control group (PIA×Time = 0.007). Goat serum biochemical variables and plasma IgG and IgM concentrations were not affected by the IA. Colostrum and milk yield as well as chemical composition were not affected by the IA, except for milk lactose percentage that was lower in the LPS group compared to the control group (4.3 ± 0.08 and 4.6 ± 0.08%, respectively PIA = 0.026). Colostrum SCC was higher in the LPS group than in the control group (3.5 ± 0.09 and 3.1 ± 0.09 cells × 106/mL, respectively; PIA = 0.011). Similarly, milk SCC increased in the LPS group compared to the control group (PIA = 0.004). The LPS group showed higher IgG (PIA = 0.044) and IgM (PIA = 0.037) concentrations on colostrum than the control group (31.9 ± 4.8 and 19.0 ± 4.8 mg/mL, 0.8 ± 0.08 and 0.5 ± 0.08 mg/mL, respectively). No differences in milk IgG and IgM concentrations between groups were observed. In conclusion, the IA of LPS at parturition increases RT, SCC and IgG and IgM concentrations in colostrum without affecting either yield or chemical composition.

Effects of malnutrition on length of stay in patients hospitalized in an acute psychiatric ward.

INTRODUCTION: Psychiatric patients are considered at risk for malnutrition due to pharmacological treatments, lifestyle habits and the mental illness by itself. Even though metabolic risk factors have been related to worse outcomes in certain conditions, the evidence regarding the nutritional status and its impact on the length of stay in psychiatric inpatients is scarce. This study aims to characterize the nutritional status in acute psychiatric patients, to correlate it with the length of stay, and to find specific potential indicators of malnutrition. METHODS: Adult patients admitted to the Hospital Clínic of Barcelona acute psychiatric ward throughout a 1-year period were included in this cross-sectional study. Sociodemographic and clinical variables were registered, including length of stay and the nutritional status measured with the CONUT score. RESULTS: Malnutrition was observed in 42.5% of patients. Plasmatic transferrin saturation, protein and iron levels were inversely correlated with length of stay, having low iron levels an association with longer hospitalizations. The length of stay was not influenced by diagnosis or treatment. Negative correlations with the nutritional status were found in: BMI, cholesterol, triglycerides, albumin, total proteins, prealbumin, iron, lymphocytes and zinc levels, and transferrin saturation. The multivariate analysis showed a significant association for cholesterol and zinc levels, lymphocyte count, and BMI. CONCLUSIONS: Our results suggest that nutritional status might influence the course of psychiatric admissions. Cholesterol and zinc levels, lymphocyte count, and BMI might be factors strongly associated with malnutrition. This consideration might allow the identification of profiles in which lifestyle interventions could be implemented.

Estudio piloto para determinar la asociación entre la microbiota intestinal y la fractura de cadera por fragilidad / Pilot study to determine the association between gut microbiota and fragility hip fracture

Introducción: Las fracturas de cadera son la causa más frecuente de ingreso hospitalario en los servicios de ortopedia de Europa y suponen un importante problema sanitario. Por ello, es de gran interés identificar factores de riesgo adicionales que nos ayuden a comprender mejor la fisiopatología de estas fracturas y a mejorar nuestra capacidad preventiva. Existen datos suficientes para apoyar la teoría de la modulación de la masa ósea por la microbiota intestinal (osteomicrobiología); sin embargo, faltan estudios clínicos en humanos que relacionen directamente la microbiota con el riesgo de fractura de cadera. Material y métodos: Estudio observacional, analítico, de casos y controles. La muestra consta de 50 pacientes y se distribuye de la siguiente manera: 25 pacientes ancianos con fractura de cadera por fragilidad y 25 controles sanos sin fractura. Se analizó la microbiota intestinal mediante extracción de ADN de muestras de heces y secuenciación del ADN ribosómico 16S tras la generación de bibliotecas de genes. Resultados: La diversidad alfa reveló una elevación de los estimadores para el nivel taxonómico de clase en el grupo de fracturas de cadera. Los órdenes Bacteroidales, Oscillospirales, Lachnospirales, Peptostreptococcales-Tissierellales y Enterobacterales fueron los órdenes dominantes en ambos grupos. En los pacientes con fractura, se observó un aumento porcentual significativo del orden de Bacteroidales (p<0,001) y Peptostreptococcales-Tissierellales (p<0,005), así como una disminución de las del orden Lachnospirales (p<0,001) respecto a los controles. Conclusiones:Este estudio ha encontrado una asociación entre una microbiota específica en pacientes ancianos con fractura de cadera por fragilidad. Estos hallazgos abren la puerta a nuevas estrategias para prevenir las fracturas de cadera. Es posible que la modificación de la microbiota mediante probióticos se revele como un método eficaz para reducir el riesgo de fractura de cadera.(AU)

Introduction: Hip fractures are the most common cause of hospital admission to orthopaedic departments in Europe and they generate a major health problem. Therefore, it is of great interest to identify additional risk factors that will help us to better understand the pathophysiology of these fractures and improve our preventive capacity. There is sufficient data to support the theory of modulation of bone mass by gut microbiota (osteomicrobiology); however, there is a lack of human clinical studies directly linking microbiota to hip fracture risk. Material and methods: Observational, analytical, case–control study. The sample consisted of 50 patients and it was distributed as follows: 25 elderly patients with fragility hip fracture and 25 subjects without fracture. The intestinal microbiota was determined by DNA extraction from stool samples and 16S ribosomal DNA sequencing after generation of gene libraries. Results: Alpha diversity revealed an elevation of the estimators for the taxonomic class level in the hip fracture group. The orders Bacteroidales, Oscillospirales, Lachnospirales, Peptostreptococcales-Tissierellales and Enterobacterales were the dominant orders in both groups. In patients with fracture, a significant percentage increase in the orders Bacteroidales (p<.001) and Peptostreptococcales-Tissierellales (p<.005) was observed, as well as a decrease in the orders Lachnospirales (p<.001) compared to controls. Conclusions: This study has found an association between a specific microbiota in elderly patients with fragility hip fracture. These findings open the door to new strategies to prevent hip fractures. Modification of the microbiota through probiotics may prove to be an effective method to reduce the risk of hip fracture.(AU)

[Translated article] Pilot study to determine the association between gut microbiota and fragility hip fracture / Estudio piloto para determinar la asociación entre la microbiota intestinal y la fractura de cadera por fragilidad

Introducción: Las fracturas de cadera son la causa más frecuente de ingreso hospitalario en los servicios de ortopedia de Europa y suponen un importante problema sanitario. Por ello, es de gran interés identificar factores de riesgo adicionales que nos ayuden a comprender mejor la fisiopatología de estas fracturas y a mejorar nuestra capacidad preventiva. Existen datos suficientes para apoyar la teoría de la modulación de la masa ósea por la microbiota intestinal (osteomicrobiología); sin embargo, faltan estudios clínicos en humanos que relacionen directamente la microbiota con el riesgo de fractura de cadera. Material y métodos: Estudio observacional, analítico, de casos y controles. La muestra consta de 50 pacientes y se distribuye de la siguiente manera: 25 pacientes ancianos con fractura de cadera por fragilidad y 25 controles sanos sin fractura. Se analizó la microbiota intestinal mediante extracción de ADN de muestras de heces y secuenciación del ADN ribosómico 16S tras la generación de bibliotecas de genes. Resultados: La diversidad alfa reveló una elevación de los estimadores para el nivel taxonómico de clase en el grupo de fracturas de cadera. Los órdenes Bacteroidales, Oscillospirales, Lachnospirales, Peptostreptococcales-Tissierellales y Enterobacterales fueron los órdenes dominantes en ambos grupos. En los pacientes con fractura, se observó un aumento porcentual significativo del orden de Bacteroidales (p<0,001) y Peptostreptococcales-Tissierellales (p<0,005), así como una disminución de las del orden Lachnospirales (p<0,001) respecto a los controles. Conclusiones:Este estudio ha encontrado una asociación entre una microbiota específica en pacientes ancianos con fractura de cadera por fragilidad. Estos hallazgos abren la puerta a nuevas estrategias para prevenir las fracturas de cadera. Es posible que la modificación de la microbiota mediante probióticos se revele como un método eficaz para reducir el riesgo de fractura de cadera.(AU)

Introduction: Hip fractures are the most common cause of hospital admission to orthopaedic departments in Europe and they generate a major health problem. Therefore, it is of great interest to identify additional risk factors that will help us to better understand the pathophysiology of these fractures and improve our preventive capacity. There is sufficient data to support the theory of modulation of bone mass by gut microbiota (osteomicrobiology); however, there is a lack of human clinical studies directly linking microbiota to hip fracture risk. Material and methods: Observational, analytical, case–control study. The sample consisted of 50 patients and it was distributed as follows: 25 elderly patients with fragility hip fracture and 25 subjects without fracture. The intestinal microbiota was determined by DNA extraction from stool samples and 16S ribosomal DNA sequencing after generation of gene libraries. Results: Alpha diversity revealed an elevation of the estimators for the taxonomic class level in the hip fracture group. The orders Bacteroidales, Oscillospirales, Lachnospirales, Peptostreptococcales-Tissierellales and Enterobacterales were the dominant orders in both groups. In patients with fracture, a significant percentage increase in the orders Bacteroidales (p<.001) and Peptostreptococcales-Tissierellales (p<.005) was observed, as well as a decrease in the orders Lachnospirales (p<.001) compared to controls. Conclusions: This study has found an association between a specific microbiota in elderly patients with fragility hip fracture. These findings open the door to new strategies to prevent hip fractures. Modification of the microbiota through probiotics may prove to be an effective method to reduce the risk of hip fracture.(AU)

Effect of coadministration of Lactiplantibacillus fabifermentans and linear/branched fructans mixtures on the intestinal health of Wistar rats.

A completely randomized experimental design was conducted to evaluate the effect of the coadministration of Lactiplantibacillus fabifermentans (Lpb. fabifermentans) and inulin/agave fructans mixtures on gut microbiota of healthy Wistar rats. Inulin, Agave salmiana fructans or fructan mixtures (1:1) at 12.5 % w/w, and Lpb. fabifermentans at 109 CFU/mL/day were used in the rats' diet for 35 days. Biochemical parameters, short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), structural changes and the bacterial abundance in rats' cecum were evaluated. A significant decrease (p < 0.05) in glucose, cholesterol and triglycerides levels with fructan mixtures combined with Lpb. Fabifermentans was observed. The weight of the small and large intestines, and cecum was higher than the control; no changes were observed in the heart, liver, spleen and kidneys. SCFA concentration mainly, propionate and butyrate was improved (p < 0.05) throughout the gastrointestinal tract in all treatments. Finally, the administration of Lpb. fabifermentans alone or combined with the fructan mixtures promoted an increase in the abundance of cecum intestinal microbiota: Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Prevotella, Blautia, Faecalibacterium, Butyricimonas, Coprococcus, Akkermansia, Methanobrevibacter, Adlercreutzia, Collinsella, Odoribacter, and Roseburia. The inclusion of fructan mixtures in combination with Lpb. fabifermentans could be a good alternative for the development of functional foods that enhance consumer health.

Possible zoonotic implications of the discovery of the advanced third stage larva of Gnathostoma turgidum (Spirurida: Gnathostomatidae) in a Mexican fish species.

Gnathostomiasis in humans is acquired by consumption of any infected second intermediate host or paratenic host. This includes amphibians, snakes and poultry as well as fish. In this work we report for the first time in Mexico the presence of an AdvL3 of Gnathostoma turgidum in the musculature of a wild fish (Gobiomorus dormitor, which also acts as intermediate host for the larvae of G. binucleatum and G. lamothei), from the Papaloapan River, Veracruz; previously, larvae of G. turgidum had only been recorded in amphibians in Mexico and in wild swamp eels from Tampa, Florida, USA. The larva found is extremely small (approximately 1,500 by 140 microns in length and width, respectively), and was obtained by artificial digestion with pepsin after examining the musculature against the light between two glass plates, a method by which it went unnoticed. Our finding of an AdvL3 in this fish, together with a previous molecular phylogenetic analysis revealing that the five species involved in human infections do not nest in the same clade, suggest that all species in the genus are potentially zoonotic. In this context, we strongly recommend the identification of larvae extracted from human patients at specific level, in order to know the role played by the 3 species distributed in Mexico in human cases of gnathostomiasis.

PET/TC en endocrinología nuclear. Resultados de la encuesta difundida por las distintas redes sociales de la SEMNIM en España / PET/CT in nuclear endocrinology: Results of the survey diffused through different social networks of the SEMNIM in Spain

Objetivo Desde el Grupo de Trabajo de Endocrinología de la SEMNIM, se planteó la necesidad de conocer el uso actual de la tecnología PET/TC aplicada en el campo de la endocrinología. El objetivo de la encuesta era obtener una fotografía instantánea del uso de la PET/TC en endocrinología nuclear, con el fin de conocer si está siendo adecuadamente utilizada y detectar posibles necesidades. Material y métodos Durante el primer trimestre del 2022, se analizaron los datos obtenidos de una encuesta que se difundió a través de distintas redes sociales a lo largo de la segunda mitad del 2021. Se recogieron datos sobre el uso de las distintas técnicas PET/TC en el carcinoma diferenciado de tiroides, el carcinoma medular de tiroides, los tumores neuroendocrinos y el hiperparatiroidismo. Resultados Un total de 15 centros respondieron la encuesta. El 79% de los hospitales utilizan la 18F-FDG PET/TC en el diagnóstico y/o seguimiento del carcinoma diferenciado de tiroides (media de exploraciones anuales: 36,9; rango 10-100). El 85% utilizan la 18F-DOPA PET/TC para el estudio de recidiva bioquímica de carcinoma medular de tiroides (media estudios anuales: 7,8; rango 2-20). El 77% utilizan la 18F-DOPA PET/TC para el estudio de los tumores neuroendocrinos: el 77% utilizan la 18F-DOPA PET/TC (media de 10 exploraciones anuales; rango 2-30) y el 69% utilizan el 68Ga-DOTA-SA (media de 24,7 exploraciones anuales; rango 2-127). El 79% utilizan la 18F-colina PET/TC para el estudio del hiperparatiroidismo (media de 30,1 exploraciones anuales; rango 10-120). Conclusiones El uso de la técnica PET/TC en endocrinología aún no está generalizado, sin embargo, vimos que las indicaciones en las cuales se utiliza son, en general, las reportadas en los distintos consensos (AU)

Aim To know the current use of the PET/CT technology applied in the field of endocrinology, the Endocrinology Working Group of SEMNIM proposed conducting a survey. The objective was to obtain a snapshot of the use of PET/CT in nuclear endocrinology, to know if it is being used properly and detect possible needs. Material and methods During the first quarter of 2022, we analyzed the data obtained from a survey that was distributed through different social networks throughout the second half of 2021. The survey asked for the use of the different PET/CT techniques available in Spain in different endocrinological pathologies like differentiated thyroid carcinoma, medullary thyroid carcinoma, neuroendocrine tumors and hyperparathyroidism. Results A total of 15 centers responded to the survey. A percentage of 79 of hospitals used 18F-FDG PET/CT in the diagnosis and/or follow-up of differentiated thyroid carcinoma (mean annual studies: 36.9; range 10–100); 85% used 18F-DOPA PET/CT for the study of biochemical recurrence of medullary thyroid carcinoma (mean annual studies: 7.8; range 2–20); 77% used 18F-DOPA PET/CT for the study of neuroendocrine tumors: 77% used 18F-DOPA PET/CT (mean of 10 scans per year; range 2–30) and 69% used 68Ga-DOTA-SA (mean of 24.7 studies per year; range 2–127); 79% used 18F-choline PET/CT for the study of hyperparathyroidism (mean of 30.1 annual studies; range 10–120). Conclusions We detected that the use of the PET/CT technique in endocrinology is not yet widespread, however, we saw that the indications in which it is used are, in general, those reported in the different consensus (AU)

Feed restriction around parturition does not affect colostrum immunoglobulin G concentration in dairy fat-tailed sheep but does affect performance and blood metabolites in newborn lambs.

This study aimed to investigate the effect of prepartum and postpartum feed restriction of fat-tailed dairy sheep on colostrum IgG concentration, and performance and blood metabolites of newborn fat-tailed lambs. Twenty fat-tailed dairy sheep were randomly allocated into control (Ctrl; n = 10) and feed restriction (FR; n = 10) groups. The Ctrl group received a diet that met 100% of energy requirements, both prepartum (from wk -5 to parturition) and postpartum (from parturition to wk 5). The FR group received a diet equivalent to 100, 50, 65, 80, and 100% of the energy requirements in wk -5, -4, -3, -2, and -1 relative to parturition, respectively. After parturition, the FR group received a diet equivalent to the 100, 50, 65, 80, and 100% of the energy requirements in wk 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, respectively. At birth, lambs were assigned to their dam's experimental group. Both the Ctrl lambs (n = 10) and the FR lambs (n = 10) were allowed to suck colostrum and milk from the dams. Colostrum samples (50 mL) were collected at parturition (0 h) and then at 1, 12, 24, 36, 48, and 72 h postpartum. Blood samples were collected from all lambs before suckling colostrum (0 h) and then at 1, 12, 24, 36, 48, and 72 h after birth and weekly until the end of the experimental period (i.e., wk 5 relative to birth). The data were evaluated using the MIXED procedure of SAS (SAS Institute Inc.). The model included feed restriction, time, and the interaction feed restriction × time as fixed effects. The individual lamb was set as a repeated subject. Variables measured in colostrum and plasma were considered dependent variables, and significance was set at P < 0.05. Prepartum and postpartum feed restriction in fat-tailed dairy sheep did not affect colostrum IgG concentration. Consequently, no differences in blood IgG concentrations were observed in the lambs. In addition, the prepartum and postpartum feed restriction experienced by fat-tailed dairy sheep caused decreased body weight and milk intake in lambs from the FR group compared with the Ctrl group. Feed restriction also promoted increased concentration of blood metabolites such as triglycerides and urea in FR lambs compared with control lambs. In conclusion, prepartum and postpartum feed restriction in fat-tailed dairy sheep did not affect either colostrum IgG concentration or blood IgG concentration of the lambs. However, prepartum and postpartum feed restriction decreased lamb milk intake and, therefore, lamb body weight gain during the first 5 wk after birth.

[Translated article] Pilot study to determine the association between gut microbiota and fragility hip fracture.

INTRODUCTION: Hip fractures are the most common cause of hospital admission to orthopaedic departments in Europe and they generate a major health problem. Therefore, it is of great interest to identify additional risk factors that will help us to better understand the pathophysiology of these fractures and improve our preventive capacity. There is sufficient data to support the theory of modulation of bone mass by gut microbiota (osteomicrobiology); however, there is a lack of human clinical studies directly linking microbiota to hip fracture risk. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Observational, analytical, case-control study. The sample consisted of 50 patients and it was distributed as follows: 25 elderly patients with fragility hip fracture and 25 subjects without fracture. The intestinal microbiota was determined by DNA extraction from stool samples and 16S ribosomal DNA sequencing after generation of gene libraries. RESULTS: Alpha diversity revealed an elevation of the estimators for the taxonomic class level in the hip fracture group. The orders Bacteroidales, Oscillospirales, Lachnospirales, Peptostreptococcales-Tissierellales and Enterobacterales were the dominant orders in both groups. In patients with fracture, a significant percentage increase in the orders Bacteroidales (p<.001) and Peptostreptococcales-Tissierellales (p<.005) was observed, as well as a decrease in the orders Lachnospirales (p<.001) compared to controls. CONCLUSIONS: This study has found an association between a specific microbiota in elderly patients with fragility hip fracture. These findings open the door to new strategies to prevent hip fractures. Modification of the microbiota through probiotics may prove to be an effective method to reduce the risk of hip fracture.

Therapeutic treatment with fluoxetine using the chronic unpredictable stress model induces changes in neurotransmitters and circulating miRNAs in extracellular vesicles.

The most widely prescribed antidepressant, fluoxetine (FLX), is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects when administered post-stress. Few studies have evaluated the effects of FLX treatment when chronic stress has induced deleterious effects in patients. Our objective was to evaluate FLX treatment (20 mg/kg/day, i.v.) once these effects are manifested, and the drug's relation to extracellular circulating microRNAs associated with inflammation, a hedonic response (sucrose intake), the forced swim test (FST), and corticosterone levels (CORT) and monoamine concentrations in limbic areas. A group of Wistar rats was divided into groups: Control; FLX; CUMS (for six weeks of exposure to chronic, unpredictable mild stress); and CUMS + FLX, a mixed group. After CUMS, the rats performed the FST, and serum levels of CORT and six microRNAs (miR-16, -21, -144, -155, -146a, -223) were analyzed, as were levels of dopamine, noradrenaline, and serotonin in the prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, and hypothalamus. CUMS reduced body weight, sucrose intake, and hippocampal noradrenaline levels, but increased CORT, immobility behavior on the FST, dopamine concentrations in the prefrontal cortex, and all miRNAs except miR-146a expression. Administering FLX during CUMS reduced CORT levels and immobility behavior on the FST and increased the expression of miR-16, -21, -146a, -223, and dopamine. FLX protects against the deleterious effects of stress by reducing CORT and has an antidepressant effect on the FST, with minimally-modified neurotransmitter levels. FLX increased the expression of miRNAs as part of the antidepressant effect. It also regulates both neuroinflammation and serotoninergic neurotransmission through miRNAs, such as the miR-16.

Health in Down syndrome: creating a conceptual model.

BACKGROUND: Down syndrome (DS) has a unique medical and psychological profile that could impact how health is defined on three dimensions: physical, social and mental well-being. METHODS: In 2021, we presented our proposed conceptual model to three expert panels, four focus groups of parents of individuals with DS age 0-21 years and four focus groups of individuals with DS age 13-21 years through videoconferencing technology. Participants gave feedback and discussed the concept of health in DS. RESULTS: Feedback from participants resulted in iterative refinement of our model, retaining the three dimensions of health, and modifying constructs within those dimensions. Experts and parents agreed that individuals with DS have unique health concerns that necessitate the creation and validation of a syndrome-specific health model. We present key themes that we identified and a final conceptual model of health for individuals with DS. CONCLUSION: Health in DS is a multi-dimensional, multi-construct model focused on relevant constructs of causal and effect indicators. This conceptual model can be used in future research to develop a syndrome-specific measure of health status.

Pilot study to determine the association between gut microbiota and fragility hip fracture. / Estudio piloto para determinar la asociación entre la microbiota intestinal y la fractura de cadera por fragilidad.

INTRODUCTION: Hip fractures are the most common cause of hospital admission to orthopaedic departments in Europe and they generate a major health problem. Therefore, it is of great interest to identify additional risk factors that will help us to better understand the pathophysiology of these fractures and improve our preventive capacity. There is sufficient data to support the theory of modulation of bone mass by gut microbiota (osteomicrobiology); however, there is a lack of human clinical studies directly linking microbiota to hip fracture risk. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Observational, analytical, case-control study. The sample consisted of 50 patients and it was distributed as follows: 25 elderly patients with fragility hip fracture and 25 subjects without fracture. The intestinal microbiota was determined by DNA extraction from stool samples and 16S ribosomal DNA sequencing after generation of gene libraries. RESULTS: Alpha diversity revealed an elevation of the estimators for the taxonomic class level in the hip fracture group. The orders Bacteroidales, Oscillospirales, Lachnospirales, Peptostreptococcales-Tissierellales and Enterobacterales were the dominant orders in both groups. In patients with fracture, a significant percentage increase in the orders Bacteroidales (p<.001) and Peptostreptococcales-Tissierellales (p<.005) was observed, as well as a decrease in the orders Lachnospirales (p<.001) compared to controls. CONCLUSIONS: This study has found an association between a specific microbiota in elderly patients with fragility hip fracture. These findings open the door to new strategies to prevent hip fractures. Modification of the microbiota through probiotics may prove to be an effective method to reduce the risk of hip fracture.

PET/CT in nuclear endocrinology: Results of the survey diffused through different social networks of the SEMNIM in Spain.

AIM: To know the current use of the PET/CT technology applied in the field of endocrinology, the Endocrinology Working Group of SEMNIM proposed conducting a survey. The objective was to obtain a snapshot of the use of PET/CT in nuclear endocrinology, to know if it is being used properly and detect possible needs. MATERIAL AND METHODS: During the first quarter of 2022, we analyzed the data obtained from a survey that was distributed through different social networks throughout the second half of 2021. The survey asked for the use of the different PET/CT techniques available in Spain in different endocrinological pathologies like differentiated thyroid carcinoma, medullary thyroid carcinoma, neuroendocrine tumors and hyperparathyroidism. RESULTS: A total of 15 centers responded to the survey. A percentage of 79 of hospitals used 18F-FDG PET/CT in the diagnosis and/or follow-up of differentiated thyroid carcinoma (mean annual studies: 36.9; range 10-100); 85% used 18F-DOPA PET/CT for the study of biochemical recurrence of medullary thyroid carcinoma (mean annual studies: 7.8; range 2-20); 77% used 18F-DOPA PET/CT for the study of neuroendocrine tumors: 77% used 18F-DOPA PET/CT (mean of 10 scans per year; range 2-30) and 69% used 68Ga-DOTA-SA (mean of 24.7 studies per year; range 2-127); 79% used 18F-choline PET/CT for the study of hyperparathyroidism (mean of 30.1 annual studies; range 10-120). CONCLUSIONS: We detected that the use of the PET/CT technique in endocrinology is not yet widespread, however, we saw that the indications in which it is used are, in general, those reported in the different consensus.