bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ApTOLL: A new therapeutic aptamer for cytoprotection and (re)myelination after multiple sclerosis
Authors: Fernández‐Gómez Beatriz , Marchena Miguel A. , Piñeiro David , Gómez‐Martín Paula , Sánchez Estefanía , Laó Yolanda , Valencia Gloria , Nocera Sonia , Benítez‐Fernández Rocío , Castaño‐León Ana M. , Lagares Alfonso , Hernández‐Jiménez Macarena , de Castro Fernando
Published: May 2024

Background and Purpose

ApTOLL is an aptamer selected to antagonize toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4), a relevant actor for innate immunity involved in inflammatory responses in multiple sclerosis (MS) and other diseases. The currently available therapeutic arsenal to treat MS is composed of immunomodulators but, to date, there are no (re)myelinating drugs available in clinics. In our present study, we studied the effect of ApTOLL on different animal models of MS.

Experimental Approach

The experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) model was used to evaluate the effect of ApTOLL on reducing the inflammatory component. A more direct effect on oligodendroglia was studied with the cuprizone model and purified primary cultures of murine and human oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) isolated through magnetic‐activated cell sorting (MACS) from samples of brain cortex. Also, we tested these effects in an ex vivo model of organotypic cultures demyelinated with lysolecithin (LPC).

Key Results

ApTOLL treatment positively impacted the clinical symptomatology of mice in the EAE and cuprizone models, which was associated with better preservation plus restoration of myelin and oligodendrocytes in the demyelinated lesions of animals. Restoration was corroborated on purified cultures of rodent and human OPCs.

Conclusion and Implications

Our findings reveal a new therapeutic approach for the treatment of inflammatory and demyelinating diseases such as MS. The molecular nature of the aptamer exerts not only an anti‐inflammatory effect but also neuroprotective and remyelinating effects. The excellent safety profile demonstrated by ApTOLL in animals and humans opens the door to future clinical trials in MS patients.
The ion channel TRPM8 is a direct target of the immunosuppressant rapamycin in primary sensory neurons
Authors: Arcas José Miguel , Oudaha Khalid , González Alejandro , Fernández‐Trillo Jorge , Peralta Francisco Andrés , Castro‐Marsal Júlia , Poyraz Seyma , Taberner Francisco , Sala Salvador , de la Peña Elvira , Gomis Ana , Viana Félix
Published: May 2024

Background and Purpose

The mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) signalling pathway is a key regulator of cell growth and metabolism. Its deregulation is implicated in several diseases. The macrolide rapamycin, a specific inhibitor of mTOR, has immunosuppressive, anti‐inflammatory and antiproliferative properties. Recently, we identified tacrolimus, another macrolide immunosuppressant, as a novel activator of TRPM8 ion channels, involved in cold temperature sensing, thermoregulation, tearing and cold pain. We hypothesized that rapamycin may also have agonist activity on TRPM8 channels.

Experimental Approach

Using calcium imaging and electrophysiology in transfected HEK293 cells and wildtype or Trpm8 KO mouse DRG neurons, we characterized rapamycin’s effects on TRPM8 channels. We also examined the effects of rapamycin on tearing in mice.

Key Results

Micromolar concentrations of rapamycin activated rat and mouse TRPM8 channels directly and potentiated cold‐evoked responses, effects also observed in human TRPM8 channels. In cultured mouse DRG neurons, rapamycin increased intracellular calcium levels almost exclusively in cold‐sensitive neurons. Responses were markedly decreased in Trpm8 KO mice or by TRPM8 channel antagonists. Cutaneous cold thermoreceptor endings were also activated by rapamycin. Topical application of rapamycin to the eye surface evokes tearing in mice by a TRPM8‐dependent mechanism.

Conclusion and Implications

These results identify TRPM8 cationic channels in sensory neurons as novel molecular targets of the immunosuppressant rapamycin. These findings may help explain some of its therapeutic effects after topical application to the skin and the eye surface. Moreover, rapamycin could be used as an experimental tool in the clinic to explore cold thermoreceptors.
Anti‐phasic oscillatory development for speech and noise processing in cochlear implanted toddlers
Authors: Wu Meiyun , Wang Yuyang , Zhao Xue , Xin Tianyu , Wu Kun , Liu Haotian , Wu Shinan , Liu Min , Chai Xiaoke , Li Jinhong , Wei Chaogang , Zhu Chaozhe , Liu Yuhe , Zhang Yu‐Xuan
Published: May 2024

Human brain demonstrates amazing readiness for speech and language learning at birth, but the auditory development preceding such readiness remains unknown. Cochlear implanted (CI) children (n = 67; mean age 2.77 year ± 1.31 SD; 28 females) with prelingual deafness provide a unique opportunity to study this stage. Using functional near‐infrared spectroscopy, it was revealed that the brain of CI children was irresponsive to sounds at CI hearing onset. With increasing CI experiences up to 32 months, the brain demonstrated function, region and hemisphere specific development. Most strikingly, the left anterior temporal lobe showed an oscillatory trajectory, changing in opposite phases for speech and noise. The study provides the first longitudinal brain imaging evidence for early auditory development preceding speech acquisition.
Evaluating keratometry and corneal astigmatism data from biometers and anterior segment tomographers and mapping to reconstructed corneal astigmatism
Authors: Langenbucher Achim , Taroni Leonardo , Coutinho Catarina P. , Cayless Alan , Szentmáry Nóra , Hoffmann Peter , Wendelstein Jascha , Savini Giacomo
Published: May 2024

Background

To compare results from different corneal astigmatism measurement instruments; to reconstruct corneal astigmatism from the postimplantation spectacle refraction and toric intraocular lens (IOL) power; and to derive models for mapping measured corneal astigmatism to reconstructed corneal astigmatism.

Methods

Retrospective single centre study involving 150 eyes treated with a toric IOL (Alcon SN6AT, DFT or TFNT). Measurements included IOLMaster 700 keratometry (IOLMK) and total keratometry (IOLMTK), Pentacam keratometry (PK) and total corneal refractive power in 3 and 4 mm zones (PTCRP3 and PTCRP4), and Aladdin keratometry (AK). Regression‐based models mapping the measured C0 and C45 components (Alpin's method) to reconstructed corneal astigmatism were derived.

Results

Mean C0 components were 0.50/0.59/0.51 dioptres (D) for IOLMK/PK/AK; 0.2/0.26/0.31 D for IOLMTK/PTCRP3/PTCRP4; and 0.26 D for reconstructed corneal astigmatism. All corresponding C45 components ranged around 0. The prediction models had main diagonal elements lower than 1 with some crosstalk between C0 and C45 (nonzero off‐diagonal elements). Root‐mean‐squared residuals were 0.44/0.45/0.48/0.51/0.50/0.47 D for IOLMK/IOLMTK/PK/PTCRP3/PTCRP4/AK.

Conclusions

Results from the different modalities are not consistent. On average IOLMTK/PTCRP3/PTCRP4 match reconstructed corneal astigmatism, whereas IOLMK/PK/AK show systematic C0 offsets of around 0.25 D. IOLMTK/PTCRP3/PTCRP4. Prediction models can reduce but not fully eliminate residual astigmatism after toric IOL implantation.
ACTION Teens Saudi Arabia: Perceptions, attitudes, motivators, and barriers among adolescents living with obesity, caregivers, and healthcare professionals in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Bin‐Abbas Bassam , Al Sagheir Afaf , Taher Lama , Elbadawi Hussein , Al Fares Abdulah , Al Harbi Mohammed , Refaat Mohamed , Ashmawy Ahmed
Published: May 2024

Obesity is predicted to affect approximately one‐quarter of children/adolescents in Saudi Arabia by 2030, but there is limited evidence regarding the perceptions, attitudes, behaviours, and barriers to effective obesity care for adolescents living with obesity (ALwO), caregivers of ALwO, and healthcare professionals (HCPs). We report data from 500 ALwO (aged 12–<18 years), 500 caregivers, and 200 HCPs surveyed in Saudi Arabia as part of the global, cross‐sectional ACTION Teens study (NCT05013359). Nearly all respondents recognized that obesity has a strong impact on overall health (ALwO 88%; caregivers 85%; HCPs 90%). Most ALwO and caregivers were aware of the ALwO's obesity status (95% and 99%, respectively) and worried about weight impacting the ALwO's future health (both ≥99%), and social media was their most commonly used source of weight‐management information (60% and 53%, respectively). Among ALwO and caregivers who had discussed weight with an HCP in the past year, most experienced ≥1 negative feeling following their most recent discussion (61% and 59%, respectively). Although 81% of HCPs felt motivated to help their ALwO patients lose weight, 57% believed weight loss was completely the ALwO's responsibility (compared with only 37% of ALwO and 35% of caregivers). This may reflect the finding that only 24% of HCPs had received advanced training in obesity/weight management after medical school. Overall, while respondents had similar perceptions of the impact of obesity, we found HCPs' attitudes towards weight loss were not aligned with those of ALwO and caregivers, suggesting a need for improved communication and obesity education.
Determinants of psychological distress during the COVID‐19 pandemic among people who use drugs in Montreal, Canada
Authors: Makarenko Iuliia , Minoyan Nanor , Bordier Høj Stine , Udhesister Sasha , Martel‐Laferrière Valérie , Jutras‐Aswad Didier , Larney Sarah , Bruneau Julie
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Limited data exists on psychological impacts of the COVID‐19 pandemic among people who use drugs (PWUD). This study aimed to determine the prevalence and correlates of severe psychological distress (PD) among PWUD in Montreal around the beginning of the pandemic.

Methods

We conducted a rapid assessment study from May to December 2020 among PWUD recruited via a community‐based cohort of people who inject drugs in Montreal (Hepatitis C cohort [HEPCO], N = 128) and community organisations (N = 98). We analysed self‐reported data on changes in drug use behaviours and social determinants since the declaration of COVID‐19 as a public health emergency, and assessed past‐month PD using the Kessler K6 scale. Multivariable logistic regression was conducted to examine correlates of PD distress (score ≥13).

Results

Of 226 survey participants, a quarter (n = 56) were screened positive for severe PD. In multivariable analyses, age (1‐year increment) (adjusted odds ratio = 0.94, 95% confidence interval [0.90, 0.98]) and a decrease in non‐injection drug use versus no change (0.26 [0.07, 0.92]) were protective against severe PD, while positive associations were found for any alcohol use in the past 6 months (3.73 [1.42, 9.78]), increased food insecurity (2.88 [1.19, 6.93]) and both moving around between neighbourhoods more (8.71 [2.63, 28.88]) and less (3.03 [1.18, 7.74]) often compared to no change.

Discussion and Conclusions

This study documented a high prevalence of severe PD among PWUD during the COVID‐19 pandemic compared with pre‐COVID‐19 data. Social determinants such as food insecurity and mobility issues, alongside demographic and substance use‐related factors, were linked to distress. Evidence‐based risk mitigation strategies for this population could reduce negative consequences in future pandemics or disruptions.
Diabetic autonomic neuropathy does not impede improvement in hypoglycaemia awareness in adults: Sub‐study results from the HypoCOMPaSS trial
Authors: Arshad Muhammad Fahad , Walkinshaw Emma , Solomon Alexandra Lubina , Bernjak Alan , Rombach Ines , Leelarathna Lala , Little Stuart A. , Evans Mark , Shaw James A. M. , Heller Simon R. , Iqbal Ahmed
Published: May 2024

Aims

Impaired awareness of hypoglycaemia (IAH) increases the risk of severe hypoglycaemia in people with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). IAH can be reversed through meticulous avoidance of hypoglycaemia. Diabetic autonomic neuropathy (DAN) has been proposed as an underlying mechanism contributing to IAH; however, data are inconsistent. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of cardiac autonomic neuropathy (CAN) on IAH reversibility inT1DM.

Methods

Participants with T1DM and IAH (Gold score ≥4) recruited to the HypoCOMPaSS (24‐week 2 × 2 factorial randomised controlled) trial were included. All underwent screening for cardiac autonomic function testing at baseline and received comparable education and support aimed at avoiding hypoglycaemia and improving hypoglycaemia awareness. Definite CAN was defined as the presence of ≥2 abnormal cardiac reflex tests. Participants were grouped according to their CAN status, and changes in Gold score were compared.

Results

Eighty‐three participants (52 women [62.7%]) were included with mean age (SD) of 48 (12) years and mean HbA1c of 66 (13) mmol/mol (8.2 [3.3] %). The mean duration of T1DM was 29 (13) years. The prevalence of CAN was low with 5/83 (6%) participants having definite autonomic neuropathy with 11 (13%) classified with possible/early neuropathy. All participants, regardless of the autonomic function status, showed a mean improvement in Gold score of ≥1 (mean improvement −1.2 [95% CI −0.8, −1.6]; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

IAH can be improved in people with T1DM, and a long duration of disease, with and without cardiac autonomic dysfunction. These data suggest that CAN is not a prime driver for modulating IAH reversibility.
Risks of peri‐ and postoperative complications with glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists
Authors: Klonoff David C. , Kim Sun H. , Galindo Rodolfo J. , Joseph Jeffery I. , Garrett Valerie , Gombar Saurabh , Aaron Rachel E. , Tian Tiffany , Kerr David
Published: May 2024

Aim

To assess whether adults with diabetes on oral hypoglycaemic agents undergoing general endotracheal anaesthesia during nine common surgical procedures who are glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonist (GLP1‐RA) users, compared with non‐users, are at increased risk of six peri‐ and post‐procedure complications.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective observational cohort analysis of over 130 million deidentified US adults with diabetes (defined as being on oral hypoglycaemic agents) from a nationally representative electronic health dataset between 1 January 2015 and 1 April 2023 was analysed. Cohorts were matched by high‐dimensionality propensity scoring. We compared the odds of six peri‐ and postoperative complications in GLP1‐RA users and non‐users. A sensitivity analysis compared these odds in GLP1‐RA users to non‐users with diabetes and obesity. We measured the odds of (a) a composite outcome of postoperative decelerated gastric emptying, including antiemetic use, ileus within 7 days post‐procedure, gastroparesis diagnosis, gastric emptying study; (b) postoperative aspiration or pneumonitis; (c) severe respiratory failure; (d) postoperative hypoglycaemia; (e) inpatient mortality; and (f) 30‐day mortality.

Results

Among 13 361 adults with diabetes, 16.5% were treated with a GLP1‐RA. In the high‐dimensionality propensity score‐matched cohort, GLP1‐RA users had a lower risk of peri‐ and postoperative complications for decelerated gastric emptying and antiemetic use compared with non‐users. The risk of ileus within 7 days, aspiration/pneumonitis, hypoglycaemia and 30‐day mortality were not different. A sensitivity analysis showed similar findings in patients with diabetes and obesity.

Conclusion

No increased risk of peri‐ and postoperative complications in GLP1‐RA users undergoing surgery with general endotracheal anaesthesia was identified.
Metformin use associated with lower rate of hospitalization for influenza in individuals with diabetes
Authors: Greene Elizabeth , Green Cynthia L. , Hurst Jillian , MacIver Nancie J.
Published: May 2024

Aim

To investigate if patients with diabetes taking metformin have better outcomes versus those not taking metformin following an emergency room visit for influenza.

Methods

Using electronic medical records, we performed a retrospective chart review of all adult patients with a diagnosis of diabetes seen in any Duke University Medical Center‐affiliated emergency department for influenza over a 6‐year period. We documented patient characteristics and comorbidities, and compared outcomes for patients taking metformin versus patients not taking metformin using both univariable and multivariable analyses. Our primary outcome was hospital admission rate. Secondary outcomes were in‐hospital length of stay and in‐hospital death.

Results

Our cohort included 1023 adult patients with diabetes, of whom 59.9% were female. The mean age was 62.9 years, 58.4% were African American, 36.1% were White, and 81.9% were obese or overweight. Of these patients, 347 (34%) were taking metformin. Patients with diabetes taking metformin were less likely to be hospitalized following an emergency department visit for influenza than patients with diabetes not taking metformin (56.8% vs. 70.1%; p < 0.001). Of those patients admitted, there was no statistically significant difference in length of stay or death.

Conclusions

In patients with diabetes, metformin use is associated with lower rate of hospitalization following an emergency department visit for influenza.
Education, crowding‐out, and Black‐White employment in youth labor markets: Evidence from No Pass, No Drive policies
Authors: Kennedy Kendall J. , Shen Danqing
Published: May 2024

We study how education affects Black and White youth employment in the context of No Pass, No Drive (NPND) policies, which require that teens attend school to hold drivers' licenses. Using difference‐in‐differences estimation, we find that NPND policies increase Black teen employment by 6.7 p.p. without affecting labor force participation (LFP), while reducing White teen employment and LFP by 8.3 p.p. and 5.9 p.p., respectively. We find similar, but smaller effects for Black and White adults ages 18–25. By increasing school enrollment, NPND policies cause White youths to exit the labor force, increasing labor market tightness and improving job finding for Black youths.
Assessment of artificial intelligence applications in responding to dental trauma
Authors: Ozden Idil , Gokyar Merve , Ozden Mustafa Enes , Sazak Ovecoglu Hesna
Published: May 2024

Background

This study assessed the consistency and accuracy of responses provided by two artificial intelligence (AI) applications, ChatGPT and Google Bard (Gemini), to questions related to dental trauma.

Materials and Methods

Based on the International Association of Dental Traumatology guidelines, 25 dichotomous (yes/no) questions were posed to ChatGPT and Google Bard over 10 days. The responses were recorded and compared with the correct answers. Statistical analyses, including Fleiss kappa, were conducted to determine the agreement and consistency of the responses.

Results

Analysis of 4500 responses revealed that both applications provided correct answers to 57.5% of the questions. Google Bard demonstrated a moderate level of agreement, with varying rates of incorrect answers and referrals to physicians.

Conclusions

Although ChatGPT and Google Bard are potential knowledge resources, their consistency and accuracy in responding to dental trauma queries remain limited. Further research involving specially trained AI models in endodontics is warranted to assess their suitability for clinical use.
Public health policies in dental traumatology: A call for action!
Authors: Brandini Daniela Atili , Carvalho de Souza Cantão Ana Beatriz , Levin Liran
Published: May 2024

Traumatic dental injuries (TDI) are a prevalent public health concern, requiring preventive measures as well as timely and appropriate interventions to prevent adverse outcomes and optimize patients' prognosis. Although dental trauma injuries require prompt clinical intervention, some challenges persist in effectively managing these injuries. In dental traumatology, the implementation of public health policies assumes critical importance, these policies play an important role in addressing preventive measures and mitigating the repercussions of TDI. This review aims to emphasize the importance of developing comprehensive public health policies in dental traumatology, recognizing the strategic importance of this approach and its benefits. By proactively addressing issues associated with dental injuries, these policies have extensive implications for individual quality of life and public health in general. Furthermore, this review will present a suggested structured framework for the development of public health policies, encompassing key domains including prevention, intervention, and education in dental traumatology. The creation and implementation of these policies will address dental trauma through prevention programs, research, and development, and will provide a significant step toward enhancing the well‐being of the population and dental trauma victims' prognosis promoting a more resilient healthcare system.
Hospitalization and mortality in Asian autoimmune bullous dermatosis patients: A 17‐year retrospective study
Authors: Amonchaisakda Nuntouchaporn , Rujitharanawong Chuda , Tuchinda Papapit , Kulthanan Kanokvalai , Chularojanamontri Leena
Published: May 2024

Limited data exist on the factors associated with hospitalization and mortality in Asian inpatients with autoimmune bullous dermatoses (AIBDs). This study aimed to elucidate the risk factors affecting hospitalization and mortality rates in Asian patients with AIBDs. A retrospective analysis of patients with AIBDs treated at Siriraj Hospital during a 17‐year period was performed using the International Classification of Diseases 10th revision codes. The characteristics of inpatients and outpatients were compared, and mortality rates and associated factors were identified. The study included 360 AIBD patients (180 inpatients, 180 outpatients). Inpatients were significantly younger than outpatients. The identified risk factors for hospitalization were malignancy (odds ratio [OR] 2.83, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.13–8.04; p = 0.034), moderate to severe disease (OR 2.52, 95% CI 1.49–4.34; p < 0.001), systemic corticosteroid use ≥15 mg/day (OR 2.27, 95% CI 1.21–4.41; p = 0.013) and oral cyclophosphamide treatment (OR 9.88, 95% CI 3.82–33.7; p < 0.001). Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed mortality rates of 26%, 36% and 39% for inpatients with pemphigus at 1, 3 and 5 years, respectively. For inpatients with pemphigoid, the corresponding rates were 28%, 38% and 47%. Infections, particularly pneumonia, were the predominant cause of death in both conditions. This study confirmed that both Asian ethnicity and healthcare disparities may be correlated with adverse outcomes in patients with AIBDs. Pemphigus mortality rates were substantially greater in Asian patients than in Caucasian patients. Continuous monitoring of factors contributing to hospitalization and mortality is imperative to improve treatment outcomes.
Robots y empleo. Revisión bibliográfica
Authors: SHARFAEI Shahab
Published: May 2024

La rápida evolución de la robótica es un gran avance científico que podría tener importantes consecuencias para la economía mundial y los estudios económicos. En este artículo se revisa la bibliografía reciente sobre este tema desde una doble perspectiva. En primer lugar, se analizan críticamente los estudios teóricos sobre los efectos de la robotización en el empleo atendiendo a su validez explicativa. En segundo lugar, se evalúa la evidencia empírica actual sobre el impacto de la tecnología robótica en el empleo y en la relocalización. Este ejercicio pone de relieve las limitaciones de la bibliografía y señala futuras líneas de investigación.
Glycans in melanoma: Drivers of tumour progression but sweet targets to exploit for immunotherapy
Authors: Niveau Camille , Sosa Cuevas Eleonora , Saas Philippe , Aspord Caroline
Published: May 2024

Aberrant glycosylation recently emerged as an unmissable hallmark of cancer progression in many cancers. In melanoma, there is growing evidence that the tumour ‘glycocode’ plays a major role in promoting cell proliferation, invasion, migration, but also dictates the nature of the immune infiltrate, which strongly affects immune cell function, and clinical outcome. Aberrant glycosylation patterns dismantle anti‐tumour defence through interactions with lectins on immune cells, which are crucial to shape anti‐tumour immunity but also to trigger immune evasion. The glycan/lectin axis represents a new immune subversion pathway that is exploited by melanoma to hijack immune cells and escape from immune control. In this review, we describe the glycosylation features of melanoma tumour cells, and further gather findings related to the role of glycosylation in melanoma tumour progression, deciphering in detail its impact on immunity. We also depict glycan‐based strategies aiming at restoring a functional anti‐tumour response in melanoma patients. Glycans/lectins emerge as key immune checkpoints with promising translational properties. Exploitation of these pathways could reshape potent anti‐tumour immunity while impeding immunosuppressive circuits triggered by aberrant tumour glycosylation patterns, holding great promise for cancer therapy.
Questioning the potential of tourism‐related imagined contact in improving interethnic relations in Türkiye
Authors: Yücel Emine , Ekici Hatice , Cesur Sevim
Published: May 2024

With three experimental studies, we used the imagined contact hypothesis to investigate the efficiency of tourist‐host contacts in promoting positive interethnic attitudes in Türkiye. Participants (ethnic Turks) were asked to envision themselves as tourists, interacting with a local minority member (either a Kurd or an Armenian) in the imagined destination place. We manipulated three variables: contact type (standard vs. friendship‐fostering contact), tourism form (domestic vs. international), and tourist‐host hierarchy. Study 1 (N = 261) and Study 3 (N = 284) examined attitudes toward Kurds, whereas Study 2 (N = 324) focused on views toward Armenians. An imagined interethnic contact with friendship potential in the domestic tourism setting (compared to an imagined trip without contact) produced higher approach intentions toward Kurds and Armenians, greater support for multiculturalism, and more positive affect toward Armenians. Surprisingly, when tourism‐related imagined interactions were hierarchical (i.e., tourist‐service personnel interaction) rather than egalitarian (i.e., tourist–resident interaction), they elicited more support for multiculturalism and higher approach intentions toward Kurds. Based on our findings, we propose tourism‐based imagined contact as a novel intervention technique for promoting more harmonious interethnic relations, particularly by incorporating friendship potential.
Prevalence, awareness, treatment and control of type 2 diabetes in southeast China: A population‐based study
Authors: Hu Xiangju , Fang Xin , Wu Minxia
Published: May 2024

Aims/Introduction

To estimate the prevalence, awareness, treatment, control rate, and influence factors of type 2 diabetes in Fujian province and provide the scientific basic for prevention.

Materials and Methods

A population‐based study with the analysis of binary logistic regression was carried out to estimate the odds ratios of the influencing factor on type 2 diabetes. Data of the Patient‐Centered Evaluative Assessment of Cardiac Events (PEACE) in southeast China were used. The study sample originated from 12 counties in Fujian province and included 135,352 permanent residents aged 35–75 years in 2021.

Results

The prevalence of type 2 diabetes was 18.32% (24,801/135,352). Among them, 13,921 (56.13%) were aware of their condition, 11,894 (47.96%) were receiving treatment, and 4,537 (18.29%) had achieved control of blood glucose. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that older age, men, low‐family income, low‐education level, urban locality, no medical insurance, and histories of myocardial infarction, stroke, dyslipidemia, hypertension, alcohol consumption, and obesity were associated with a higher prevalence of type 2 diabetes.

Conclusions

The prevalence of type 2 diabetes among residents aged 35–75 years in southeast China is high, whereas the status of its low awareness, treatment and control is severe, warranting a broad‐based global strategy, including greater efforts in earlier screening, and more effective and affordable treatment is essential.
Epidermolytic ichthyosis: Clinical spectrum and burden of disease in a large German cohort
Authors: Frommherz Leonie , Giehl Kathrin , Hofmann Josephine , Huebner Stefanie , Kiekbusch Kirstin , Sabkova Teodora , Süßmuth Kira , Alter Svenja , Tantcheva‐Poór Iliana , Ott Hagen , Fischer Judith , Has Cristina
Published: May 2024

Background

Keratinopathic ichthyoses are a group of hereditary skin disorders caused by pathogenic variants in keratin genes such as KRT1, KRT2 and KRT10, resulting in conditions such as epidermolytic ichthyosis (EI), autosomal‐recessive EI, superficial EI and epidermal nevus. Case reports highlight the diversity of clinical manifestations, but only limited information exists regarding the quality of life and burden of disease.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to assess the clinical spectrum, genotype–phenotype correlations and burden of disease in patients with epidermolytic ichthyosis in Germany.

Methods

We conducted an observational study involving 48 patients diagnosed with EI. Evaluations included the severity of skin involvement using the Investigator's Global Assessment (IGA), the modified Ichthyosis Area Severity Index (mIASI) and complications. The burden of disease was evaluated using the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) or the Children's Dermatology Life Quality Index (cDLQI).

Results

Based on clinical features, mIASI and IGA, EI can be categorized into localized, intermediate and severe forms. Patients with keratin 1 mutations tended to have severe EI, while the three forms were evenly distributed in those with keratin 10 mutations. The study highlights that around half of the patients with EI experienced itch and severe pain. Quality of life was affected, with daily life restrictions of 78% due to care and therapies. Reimbursement for moisturizing ointments by health insurance was insufficient for one‐quarter of cases.

Conclusions

The results emphasize the need for targeted interventions and comprehensive care strategies to enhance the quality of life for affected individuals.
The impact of vedolizumab therapy on extraintestinal manifestations in patients with inflammatory bowel disease: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Zheng Dian‐yu , Wang Yi‐nuo , Huang Yu‐Hong , Jiang Min , Ma Yi‐nan , Dai Cong
Published: May 2024

Background and Aim

Extraintestinal manifestations (EIMs) pose a significant threat in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients. Vedolizumab (VDZ) primarily affects the gastrointestinal tract. However, its impact on EIMs remains uncertain. Therefore, we conducted this meta‐analysis to examine the effects of VDZ on EIMs during treatment.

Methods

Relevant studies were identified by conducting thorough searches across electronic databases, including PubMed, Ovid Embase, Medline, and Cochrane CENTRAL. Primary outcomes focused on the proportion of patients with resolution for pre‐existing EIMs in IBD patients receiving VDZ. Secondary outcomes included the proportion of patients with EIM exacerbations and new onset EIMs during VDZ treatment.

Results

Our meta‐analysis encompassed 21 studies. The proportion of patients with resolution of pre‐existing EIMs in VDZ‐treated IBD patients was 39% (150/386; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.31–0.48). The proportion of patients with EIM exacerbations occurred at a rate of 28% (113/376; 95% CI 0.05–0.50), while new onset EIMs had a rate of 15% (397/2541; 95% CI 0.10–0.20). Subgroup analysis revealed a 40% (136/337) proportion of patients with resolution for articular‐related EIMs and a 50% (9/18) rate for erythema nodosum. Exacerbation rates for arthritis/arthralgia, erythema nodosum/pyoderma gangrenosum, and aphthous stomatitis during VDZ use were 28% (102/328), 18% (7/38), and 11% (3/28), respectively. The incidence rate of newly developed EIMs during treatment was 11% (564/4839) for articular‐related EIMs, with other EIMs below 2%.

Conclusion

VDZ demonstrates efficacy in skin‐related EIMs like erythema nodosum and joint‐related EIMs including arthritis, arthralgia, spondyloarthritis, and peripheral joint diseases. Some joint and skin‐related EIMs may experience exacerbation during VDZ therapy.
Endoscopic and histological risk stratification for gastric cancer using gastric intestinal metaplasia
Authors: Kawamura Masashi , Uedo Noriya , Yao Kenshi , Koike Tomoyuki , Kanesaka Takashi , Hatta Waku , Ogata Yohei , Iwai Wataru , Yokosawa Satoshi , Honda Junya , Asonuma Sho , Okata Hideki , Ohyauchi Motoki , Ito Hirotaka , Abe Yasuhiko , Ara Nobuyuki , Kayaba Shoichi , Shinkai Hirohiko , Kanemitsu Takao
Published: May 2024

Background and Aim

Intestinal metaplasia (IM) of the gastric mucosa is strongly associated with the risk of gastric cancer (GC). This study was performed to investigate the usefulness of endoscopic and histological risk stratification for GC using IM.

Methods

This was a post‐hoc analysis of a multicenter prospective study involving 10 Japanese facilities (UMINCTR000027023). The ridge/tubulovillous pattern, light blue crest (LBC), white opaque substance (WOS), endoscopic grading of gastric IM (EGGIM) score using non‐magnifying image‐enhanced endoscopy, and operative link on gastric IM assessment (OLGIM) were evaluated for their associations with GC risk in all patients.

Results

In total, 380 patients (115 with GC and 265 without GC) were analyzed. The presence of an LBC (limited to antrum: odds ratio [OR] 2.4 [95% confidence interval 1.1–5.0], extended to corpus: OR 3.6 [2.1–6.3]), the presence of WOS (limited to antrum: OR 3.0 [1.7–5.3], extended to corpus: OR 4.2 [2.1–8.2]), and histological IM (limited to antrum: OR 3.2 [1.4–7.4], extended to corpus: OR 8.5 [4.5–16.0]) were significantly associated with GC risk. Additionally, the EGGIM score (5–8 points: OR 8.8 [4.4–16.0]) and OLGIM (stage III/IV: OR 12.5 [6.1–25.8]) were useful for stratification of GC risk. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve value for GC risk was 0.740 for OLGIM and 0.706 for EGGIM.

Conclusions

The LBC, WOS, EGGIM, and OLGIM were strongly associated with GC risk in Japanese patients. This finding can be useful for GC risk assessment in daily clinical practice.
Cognitive impairment and treatment strategy for atrial fibrillation in older adults: The SAGE‐AF study
Authors: Athreya Deepti S. , Saczynski Jane S. , Gurwitz Jerry H. , Monahan Kevin M. , Bamgbade Benita A. , Paul Tenes J. , Sogade Felix , Lessard Darleen M. , McManus David D. , Helm Robert H.
Published: May 2024

Background

Cognitive impairment is strongly associated with atrial fibrillation (AF). Rate and rhythm control are the two treatment strategies for AF and the effect of treatment strategy on risk of cognitive decline and frailty is not well established. We sought to determine how treatment strategy affects geriatric‐centered outcomes.

Methods

The Systematic Assessment of Geriatric Elements‐AF (SAGE‐AF) was a prospective, observational, cohort study. Older adults with AF were prospectively enrolled between 2016 and 2018 and followed longitudinally for 2 years. In a non‐randomized fashion, participants were grouped by rate or rhythm control treatment strategy based on clinical treatment at enrollment. Baseline characteristics were compared. Longitudinal binary mixed models were used to compare treatment strategy with respect to change in cognitive function and frailty status. Cognitive function and frailty status were assessed with the Montreal Cognitive Assessment Battery and Fried frailty phenotype tools.

Results

972 participants (mean age = 75, SD = 6.8; 49% female, 87% non‐Hispanic white) completed baseline examination and 2‐year follow‐up. 408 (42%) were treated with rate control and 564 (58%) with rhythm control. The patient characteristics of the two groups were different at baseline. Participants in the rate control group were older, more likely to have persistent AF, prior stroke, be treated with warfarin and have baseline cognitive impairment. After adjusting for baseline differences, participants treated with rate control were 1.5 times more likely to be cognitively impaired over 2 years (adjusted OR: 1.47, 95% CI:1.12, 1.98) and had a greater decline in cognitive function (adjusted estimate: −0.59 (0.23), p < 0.01) in comparison to rhythm control. Frailty did not vary between the treatment strategies.

Conclusions

Among those who had 2‐year follow‐up in non‐randomized observational cohort, the decision to rate control AF in older adults was associated with increased odds of decline in cognitive function but not frailty.
Predictors of functional outcome after stroke: Sex differences in older individuals
Authors: Mavridis Anastasios , Reinholdsson Malin , Sunnerhagen Katharina S. , Abzhandadze Tamar
Published: May 2024

Background

Sex differences in stroke are well documented, with females being older at onset, with more severe strokes and worse outcomes than males. Females receive less comprehensive stroke unit treatment. Similarly, older individuals receive poorer quality care than younger ones. There is limited research on sex differences in factors that impact 3‐month poststroke functional outcome in people older than 80 years.

Methods

This register‐based and cross‐sectional study analyzed data from two stroke quality registers in Sweden from 2014 through 2019. The study included patients aged ≥80 with a diagnosis of ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke. Sociodemographic features, prestroke condition, stroke severity on admission (National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale [NIHSS]), stroke unit care, rehabilitation plans, and 3‐month poststroke functional outcome measured with the modified Rankin Scale were analyzed. Ordinal regression analyses stratified by sex were conducted to assess sex differences in factors that impact poststroke functional outcome 3 months after the stroke.

Results

A total of 2245 patients were studied with the majority (59.2%) being females. Females experienced more severe strokes (NIHSS median 4 vs. 3, p = 0.01) and were older at stroke onset than males (87.0 vs. 85.4, p < 0.001). Females were also less independent prestroke (69.9% vs. 77.4%, p < 0.001) and a higher proportion of females lived alone (78.2% vs. 44.2%, p < 0.001). Males received intravenous thrombolysis more often than females (16.3% vs. 12.0%, p = 0.005). Regarding 3‐month functional outcome, males benefited more from thrombolysis (odds ratio [OR] 0.52, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.30–0.83), whereas females benefited more from thrombectomy (OR 0.40, 95% CI 0.20–0.71).

Conclusion

Stroke care should be adapted to sex disparities in older individuals, while clinicians should be aware of these sex disparities. Further research could clarify the mechanisms behind these disparities and lead to a more personalized approach to stroke care of the older population.
Migration and natives' inequality: Evidence from Italian local labor markets
Authors: Gianfreda Giuseppina , Vallanti Giovanna
Published: May 2024

Using individual data from the Italian Labor Force Survey, we investigate the impact of immigration on the Gini index and the percentile ratio (p90/p10) at the household level within Labor Market Areas (LMAs) in Italy from 2008 to 2018. To identify the effect of immigration we construct a composite index based on demographic and occupation‐related characteristics that captures the degree of similarity between immigrants and natives across LMAs. This approach addresses the limitations of the standard cell segmentation method and allows us to estimate the impact of immigration on the entire distribution of natives' earnings. To address endogeneity concerns we use an instrument proposed by Card, which exploits the tendency of immigrants to migrate to areas with a pre‐existing group of immigrants of the same ethnicity. Our findings show that immigration reduces income inequality among natives and the effect is larger in those LMAs where the degree of similarity between immigrants and natives is higher. We also find that immigration has a positive effect on natives' labor income in occupations that require language skills, while the effect is not significant in low/no skilled jobs that only require basic language skills, or highly skilled jobs where interaction between immigrants and natives is limited.
Total hip arthroplasty for femoral fractures other than capital physeal fractures in dogs: 14 cases (2012‐2020)
Authors: Adams T. A. , Jones S. C. , Dyce J.
Published: May 2024

Objectives

The goals of this retrospective study were to assess the clinical and radiographic outcomes in dogs with proximal femoral fractures, other than capital physeal fractures, treated via total hip arthroplasty.

Materials and Methods

Medical records as well as pre‐operative, immediate post‐operative and 2 to 3 months post‐operative radiographs of 14 dogs with femoral head and neck fractures treated via total hip arthroplasty were reviewed. A Liverpool Osteoarthritis in Dogs questionnaire was completed by owners to assess long‐term outcomes.

Results

Seven femoral head fractures, and seven femoral neck fractures were included. Four of the femoral head fractures were acute in nature, the three remaining femoral head fractures and all seven femoral neck fracture cases were chronic fractures. Malorientation of the femoral stem was more common in the chronic femoral fracture cases when compared to the acute femoral fracture cases. Two of the acute fracture cases and five chronic fracture cases experienced a change in femoral stem position post‐operatively. One femoral fissure fracture occurred and was repaired intraoperatively. One case had a post‐operative complication that resulted in implant removal. All dogs had good to excellent owner‐perceived outcome.

Clinical Significance

Femoral head and neck fractures, and in particular the chronic cases, represented a challenging subset of cases presenting for total hip arthroplasty, resulting in suboptimal stem alignment in many cases. However, clinical outcomes were considered good to excellent in all dogs in the study, indicating that total hip arthroplasty is a viable treatment option for these types of fractures.
The Ordovician meteorite event in North America: Age of the Slate Islands impact structure, northern Lake Superior, Ontario, Canada
Authors: Parisi Andrew F. , Catlos Elizabeth J. , Brookfield Michael E. , Schmitt Axel K. , Stöckli Daniel F. , Miggins Daniel P. , Campos Daniel S.
Published: May 2024

The Slate Islands (Ontario) is one of Canada's larger impact structures at 32 km in diameter and has been linked to the Ordovician meteorite event (OME). We report zircon U–Pb dates from two suevite and two syenite samples collected from the Slate Islands. Plagioclase 40Ar/39Ar dates were also obtained from one of the samples. The plagioclase and most zircon dates record pre‐impact ages with links to known tectonic events, including those associated with the assembly of the Superior Craton at approximately 2700 Ma. However, Neoarchean zircon grains appear to be reset at 456.1 ± 6.9 Ma (±2σ) based on the lower intercept of discordia for all dated samples. The date overlaps its previously accepted age of 450 Ma and would be 2–19 million years following the parent asteroid breakup if related to the OME.
Trees adjust nutrient acquisition strategies across tropical forest secondary succession
Authors: Wong Michelle Y. , Wurzburger Nina , Hall Jefferson S. , Wright S. Joseph , Tang Wenguang , Hedin Lars O. , Saltonstall Kristin , van Breugel Michiel , Batterman Sarah A.
Published: May 2024

Nutrient limitation may constrain the ability of recovering and mature tropical forests to serve as a carbon sink. However, it is unclear to what extent trees can utilize nutrient acquisition strategies – especially root phosphatase enzymes and mycorrhizal symbioses – to overcome low nutrient availability across secondary succession.

Using a large‐scale, full factorial nitrogen and phosphorus fertilization experiment of 76 plots along a secondary successional gradient in lowland wet tropical forests of Panama, we tested the extent to which root phosphatase enzyme activity and mycorrhizal colonization are flexible, and if investment shifts over succession, reflective of changing nutrient limitation. We also conducted a meta‐analysis to test how tropical trees adjust these strategies in response to nutrient additions and across succession.

We find that tropical trees are dynamic, adjusting investment in strategies – particularly root phosphatase – in response to changing nutrient conditions through succession. These changes reflect a shift from strong nitrogen to weak phosphorus limitation over succession. Our meta‐analysis findings were consistent with our field study; we found more predictable responses of root phosphatase than mycorrhizal colonization to nutrient availability.

Our findings suggest that nutrient acquisition strategies respond to nutrient availability and demand in tropical forests, likely critical for alleviating nutrient limitation.
Exercise interventions following bariatric surgery are poorly reported: A systematic review and a call for action
Authors: Baena‐Raya Andrés , Martínez‐Rosales Elena , Ruiz‐González David , Hernández‐Martínez Alba , López‐Sánchez Laura , Ferrer‐Márquez Manuel , Rodríguez‐Pérez Manuel A. , Soriano‐Maldonado Alberto
Published: May 2024

Objectives

This study assessed the transparency and replicability of exercise‐based interventions following bariatric surgery by evaluating the content reporting of exercise‐based clinical trials.

Design

The study design of the present article is a systematic review.

Data sources

PubMed, Scopus, Web of Sciences, PsycINFO, and Cochrane were searched from their inception to May 2023.

Eligibility criteria

Eligible studies were clinical trials including exercise interventions in participants following bariatric surgery. There were 28 unique exercise interventions. Two independent reviewers applied the exercise prescription components of Frequency, Intensity, Time, and Type (FITT; four items) and the Consensus on Exercise Reporting Template (CERT; 19 items). Exercise interventions were organized into four major exercise components: aerobic training, resistance training, concurrent training, and “others.”

Results

The FITT assessment revealed that 53% of the trials did not report the training intensity, whereas 25% did not indicate the duration of the major exercise component within the training session. The mean CERT score was 5 out of a possible score of 19. No studies reached CERT score >10, while 13 out of the total 19 CERT items were not adequately reported by ≥75% of the studies.

Conclusion

This study highlights that the exercise interventions following bariatric surgery are poorly reported, non‐transparent, and generally not replicable. This precludes understanding the dose–response association of exercise and health‐related effects and requires action to improve this scientific field.
Metagovernance of co‐creation in city–university partnerships: How to avoid being stuck in the middle?
Authors: Torfing Jacob , Sivertsen Håkon , Torvatn Hans
Published: May 2024

This article contributes to public administration research on collaborative governance in partnerships by exploring local efforts to metagovern a multi‐layered interorganizational collaboration between a city and a university. Hence, to further explore the prospect for developing city–university partnerships (CUP) into local platforms for the co‐creation of innovative public value outcomes, we ask: How can metagovernance contribute to aligning different actors and levels in a CUP aiming to enhance public value production? This question is answered based on a mixed‐method case study of cutting‐edge experiences from the City of Trondheim, Norway, where a transformative partnership was formed in 2017. The main finding is that the efforts to metagovern the CUP are deficient as they fail to prevent it from being stuck in the middle with a tactical level that is disconnected to strategic leadership and has limited operational impact. Some remedial strategies are offered, and the future of CUPs is discussed.