bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The role of the mineralocorticoid receptor in immune cells in cardiovascular disease
Authors: van der Heijden Charlotte D. C. C. , Bode Marlies , Riksen Niels P. , Wenzel Ulrich O. 
Published: December 2021

Chronic low‐grade inflammation and immune cell activation are important mechanisms in the pathophysiology of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Therefore, targeted immunosuppression is a promising novel therapy to reduce cardiovascular risk. In this review, we identify the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) on immune cells as a potential target to modulate inflammation. The MR is present in almost all cells of the cardiovascular system, including immune cells. Activation of the MRs in innate and adaptive immune cells induces inflammation which can contribute to CVD, by inducing endothelial dysfunction and hypertension. Moreover, it accelerates atherosclerotic plaque formation and destabilization and impairs tissue regeneration after ischaemic events. Identifying the molecular targets for these non‐renal actions of the MR provides promising novel cardiovascular drug targets for mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs), which are currently mainly applied in hypertension and heart failure.LINKED ARTICLESThis article is part of a themed issue on Emerging Fields for Therapeutic Targeting of the Aldosterone‐Mineralocorticoid Receptor Signaling Pathway. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v179.13/issuetoc
Commentary: The Signal and the Noise—questioning the benefits of puberty blockers for youth with gender dysphoria—a commentary on Rew et al. (2021)
Authors: Clayton Alison , Malone William J. , Clarke Patrick , Mason Julia , D’Angelo Roberto 
Published: December 2021

This commentary is a critique of a recent systematic review of the evidence for the use of puberty blockers for youth with gender dysphoria (GD) by Rew et al. (2021). In our view, the review suffers from several methodological oversights including the omission of relevant studies and suboptimal analysis of the quality of the included studies. This has resulted in an incomplete and incorrect assessment of the evidence base for the use of puberty blockers. We find that Rew et al.’s conclusions and clinician recommendations are problematic, especially when discussing suicidality. A key message of the review’s abstract appears to be that puberty blockers administered in childhood reduce adult suicidality. However, the study used for the basis of this conclusion (Turban et al., 2020) did not make a causal claim between puberty blockers and decreased adult suicidality. Rather, it reported a negative association between using puberty blockers and lifetime suicidal ideation. The study design did not allow for determination of causation. Our commentary concludes by demonstrating how the GD medical literature, as it moves from one publication to the next, can overstate the evidence underpinning clinical practice recommendations for youth with GD.
Discovery of a novel and orally active Farnesoid X receptor agonist for the protection of acetaminophen‐induced hepatotoxicity
Authors: Cai Zongyu , Wang Bin , Zhou Zongtao , Zhao Xin , Hu Lijun , Ren Qiang , Deng Liming , Li Zheng , Wang Guangji 
Published: December 2021

AbstractAcetaminophen (APAP) overdose is a leading cause of acute hepatic failure and liver transplantation, while the existing treatments are poorly effective. Therefore, it is necessary to develop effective therapeutic drugs for APAP‐induced hepatotoxicity. Farnesoid X receptor (FXR) is a potential target for the treatment of liver disease, and the activation of FXR protects mice against APAP‐induced hepatotoxicity. Compound 5, a glycine‐conjugated derivative of FXR agonist 4, was designed to extend the chemical space of existing FXR agonists. Molecular modeling study indicated that compound 5 formed hydrogen bond network with key residues of FXR. Moreover, compound 5 (10 mg/kg) revealed better protective effects against APAP‐induced hepatotoxicity than parent compound 4 (30 mg/kg). Further mechanical research indicated that compound 5 regulated the expressions of genes related to FXR and oxidative stress. These findings suggest that compound 5 is a promising FXR agonist suitable for further research, and it is the first time to verify that the glycine‐conjugated derivative five exerted better protective effects than its parent compound.
Genetics of monogenic disorders of calcium and bone metabolism
Authors: Newey Paul J. , Hannan Fadil M. , Wilson Abbie , Thakker Rajesh V. 
Published: December 2021

AbstractDisorders of calcium homeostasis are the most frequent metabolic bone and mineral disease encountered by endocrinologists. These disorders usually manifest as primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) or hypoparathyroidism (HP), which have a monogenic aetiology in 5%–10% of cases, and may occur as an isolated endocrinopathy, or as part of a complex syndrome. The recognition and diagnosis of these disorders is important to facilitate the most appropriate management of the patient, with regard to both the calcium‐related phenotype and any associated clinical features, and also to allow the identification of other family members who may be at risk of disease. Genetic testing forms an important tool in the investigation of PHPT and HP patients and is usually reserved for those deemed to be an increased risk of a monogenic disorder. However, identifying those suitable for testing requires a thorough clinical evaluation of the patient, as well as an understanding of the diversity of relevant phenotypes and their genetic basis. This review aims to provide an overview of the genetic basis of monogenic metabolic bone and mineral disorders, primarily focusing on those associated with abnormal calcium homeostasis, and aims to provide a practical guide to the implementation of genetic testing in the clinic.
Enzymatic synthesis of sodium alginate‐g‐poly (acrylic acid) grafting copolymers as a novel printing thickener
Authors: Zhang Nan , Tian Zhensheng , Yu Yuanyuan , Wang Ping , Zhou Man , Wang Qiang 
Published: December 2021

AbstractGrafting modification is a common method for improving the specific properties of polysaccharides. Herein, we synthesised sodium alginate‐g‐poly (acrylic acid) (NaAlg‐g‐PAA) as a novel printing thickener via catalysis of horseradish peroxidase and hydrogen peroxide in the presence of acetylacetone. The synthesised products were characterised by Fourier Transform–infrared spectroscopy and polar nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, which confirmed that the PAA was successfully grafted onto the hydroxyl groups at carbon atoms (C2) of sodium alginate. The optimal grafting percentage and grafting efficiency reached 51% and 96%, respectively. Compared with native sodium alginate, the grafted copolymer NaAlg‐g‐PAA exhibited better thermal stability, rheological and printing properties. This work provides an efficient and promising approach for modifying polysaccharides like alginates and could be used as an alternative to conventional chemical modification.
Kidney transplant outcomes among recipients with post‐transplant hip or knee joint replacement surgery
Authors: Dodin Ban , Breyer Isabel , Osman Fauzia , Alstott James , Aziz Fahad , Garg Neetika , Mohamed Maha , Mandelbrot Didier , Djamali Arjang , Parajuli Sandesh 
Published: December 2021

AbstractIntroductionPatients with end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) are at a higher risk of needing hip or knee replacement (joint replacement) surgery due to the high prevalence of degenerative joint disease and other conditions. However, there remains a large debate about the timing of joint replacement surgery and whether it should be pre‐ vs post‐transplant.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective study analyzing all adult kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) at our university hospital who had undergone subsequent joint replacement between 2001 and 2017. Transplant‐specific outcomes of acute rejection, death censored graft failure (DCGF), and patient death post‐joint replacement surgery were outcomes of interest. Controls were selected at a 1:3 ratio based on the incidence density sampling of post‐transplant interval.ResultsThere were 101 KTRs in the joint replacement group and were compared with 281 controls. In the multivariate analysis, the need for joint replacement was not associated with acute rejection (HR: 1.59; 95% CI: 0.77‐3.29; P = 0.21); DCGF (HR: 0.89; 95% CI: 0.49‐1.60; P = 0.70) or patient death (HR: 0.84, 95% CI: 0.55‐1.38, P = 0.42).ConclusionIn selected KTRs, joint replacement surgery was not associated with detrimental transplant‐specific outcomes.
The change in glycaemic control immediately after COVID‐19 vaccination in people with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Heald Adrian H. , Stedman Michael , Horne Linda , Rea Rustam , Whyte Martin , Gibson J. Martin , Anderson Simon G. , Ollier Willam 
Published: December 2021

AbstractAimsEvidence suggests that some people with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) experience temporary instability of blood glucose (BG) levels after COVID‐19 vaccination. We aimed to assess this objectively.MethodsWe examined the interstitial glucose profile of 97 consecutive adults (age ≥ 18 years) with T1DM using the FreeStyle Libre® flash glucose monitor in the periods immediately before and after their first COVID‐19 vaccination. The primary outcome measure was percentage (%) interstitial glucose readings within the target range 3.9–10 mmol/L for 7 days prior to the vaccination and the 7 days after the vaccination. Data are mean ± standard error.ResultsThere was a significant decrease in the % interstitial glucose on target (3.9–10.0) for the 7 days following vaccination (mean 52.2% ± 2.0%) versus pre‐COVID‐19 vaccination (mean 55.0% ± 2.0%) (p = 0.030). 58% of individuals with T1DM showed a reduction in the 'time in target range' in the week after vaccination. 30% showed a decrease of time within the target range of over 10%, and 10% showed a decrease in time within target range of over 20%. The change in interstitial glucose proportion on target in the week following vaccination was most pronounced for people taking metformin/dapagliflozin + basal bolus insulin (change −7.6%) and for people with HbA1c below the median (change −5.7%).ConclusionIn T1DM, we have shown that initial COVID‐19 vaccination can cause temporary perturbation of interstitial glucose, with this effect more pronounced in people talking oral hypoglycaemic medication plus insulin, and when HbA1c is lower.
Fringe banking and financialization: Pawnbroking in pre‐famine and famine Ireland
Authors: McLaughlin Eoin , Pecchenino Rowena 
Published: December 2021

AbstractPawnbroking, one of the oldest and most accessible forms of credit, was a common feature of life in pre‐famine and famine Ireland. This article studies the role of pawnbroking in the Irish financial system during this important period, applying insights from modern studies on fringe banking. In the period under study, a formal tiered financial system existed; regulated joint‐stock banks offered services to industry and the better off, while fringe banks provided financial services largely, but not exclusively, to unbanked groups. The main findings are that pawnbrokers provided a steady source of credit throughout the island of Ireland and that this credit stream was more durable than that provided by alternative financial service providers in the fringe banking market, especially during the famine. Our findings suggest a nuanced interpretation is needed as we find strong interrelationships between the various financial service providers.
Clinical decision‐making in complex endodontic cases between postgraduate students across dental specialties at a UK dental school: A pilot study
Authors: Liew Jonathan , Zainal Abidin Imran , Cook Neil , Kanagasingam Shalini 
Published: December 2021

AbstractIntroductionTreatment decisions for a heavily restored endodontically treated tooth vary amongst clinicians owing to multitude of factors. This phenomenon not only often poses dilemmas to clinicians of different clinical backgrounds, but also exerts a degree of treatment difficulty to the treating clinician. Previous studies indicated that specialty training and clinical experience significantly impacted clinical decision‐making process.Materials and methodsMaster of Science postgraduate students in endodontics, prosthodontics, periodontics, oral surgery and implantology participated in a questionnaire‐based cross‐sectional study. The dental specialties were further categorised into restorative and surgical dentistry. A multiple‐choice questionnaire with three clinical cases was distributed to the students. Data were analysed for trends using descriptive statistics.ResultsThere was a 44% response rate; the majority of respondents were from restorative dentistry specialties. Cases 1 and 2 were rated as moderate to high difficulty, and Case 3 was predominantly rated as high difficulty with procedure predictability being the main factor affecting their clinical decision‐making in three cases. Endodontic retreatment was selected as the preferred treatment in Cases 1 and 2 and periradicular surgery in Case 3. The students were fairly confident in managing Cases 1 and 2, but not in Case 3. Referral patterns were consistent in Cases 1 and 2 with endodontists being the first choice of referral except for Case 3 where 48% preferred to refer to oral surgeons and 35% choosing endodontists. Some indication of differences between specialties were noted throughout. Years in practice appeared to be related to the importance of predictability in Case 3 only.ConclusionConsiderable inter‐clinician variability was noted whereby specialty postgraduate training impacted on clinical decision‐making. Overall, procedural predictability, technical difficulty, risk of damage to the tooth and patient preference were the most highly ranked factors affecting clinical decision‐making. Evidence‐based treatment guidelines and dental curricula should be reviewed to enhance inter‐clinician agreement in clinical decision‐making, ultimately improving patient care.
Dental students’ attitude towards propranolol non‐medical use: A multi‐institutional cross‐sectional study in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Tounsi Abrar A , Alnowaiser Alhanouf , Alsuhibani Amal , Alsadhan Lama , Hamdan Hebah M 
Published: December 2021

AbstractIntroductionThe lives of college students are full of various stressors. Students seek a number of stress‐relieving modalities as self‐prescribed beta‐blockers to improve their academic performance. The aim of this study was to assess the extent of beta‐blockers (propranolol) usage amongst Saudi dental students and their attitude towards its use to enhance academic performance.MethodsA cross‐sectional study involving a convenient sample was conducted on a group of undergraduate dental students enrolled in Riyadh dental schools during the academic year of 2019/2020. A paper format closed‐ended questionnaire was used.ResultsA sample of 680 students participated in the survey (43% response rate). Approximately 12% of dental students used propranolol for non‐medical reasons. The prevalence did not differ significantly with the gender or year of study. A significantly higher percentage of students from private dental schools reported using propranolol for non‐medical reasons (odds ratio (OR), 3.1; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.7–5.4; p < .001). Propranolol users were significantly more likely to connect with other students using the medication. Both students, those who used and those who did not use propranolol, similarly, highly endorsed the need for being informed about the risk of using propranolol. Compared with non‐users, there was more disagreement amongst propranolol users on the necessity for placing school regulations controlling medication use.ConclusionThe use of propranolol to enhance academic performance amongst dental students in Saudi Arabia should not be disregarded. The study findings emphasise the importance of regulating students’ usage of beta‐blockers to promote a fair academic environment.
International branch campuses of Chinese universities in Europe: Motivations, governance and challenges
Authors: Zhang Mengqi , You Zheng 
Published: December 2021

AbstractThis article presents two Chinese international branch campuses located in Europe as cases. Semi‐structured interviews and document analysis were undertaken to clarify the motivations of establishing international branch campuses, their governance models, and operational challenges. We found that authorities' regulatory policies and public norms impact the decision making of Chinese universities. Universities are also eager to uphold their vision of internationalisation, opening up, through the establishment of international branch campuses. The governance of Chinese international branch campuses mainly depends on bilateral cooperation rather than on adoption of the host or home university's governance modus operandi, which indicates a kind of transitional approach. Joint decision‐making, limited financial resources and institutional distance between the home and host universities have led to a type of balance seeking programme operation, that seeks to accommodate both Chinese policies, institutional practices as well as European higher education practices and policies. Overall, the self‐proclaimed orientation of Chinese international branch campuses in Europe has not yet been fully achieved, and a series of ongoing issues remains to be resolved.
A comparative study on periodontitis and periodontitis‐associated bacteria in Somali and non‐Somali children and adolescents living in Trollhättan, Sweden
Authors: Thorbert‐Mros Sara , Ali Nawal , Ali Meis , Ayas Mert , Trullenque‐Eriksson Anna , Dahlén Gunnar 
Published: December 2021

AbstractThe reported prevalence of periodontitis in children and adolescents varies considerably between populations globally. This cross‐sectional study compares clinical and microbiological findings on 83 Somali immigrants and 96 non‐Somali children aged 10–17 years old living in Trollhättan, Sweden. The clinical examination included registration of bleeding on probing, plaque, and calculus on incisors and first molars. The distance between cemento‐enamel junction and bone level was measured on bitewing radiographs. Pooled microbiological samples (1 μL) were taken from the mesial surface of 16, 11, 31, 36, and analyzed by culture and real‐time polymerase chain reaction for seven periodontal associated bacterial species. The Somali participants had poorer oral hygiene and more bleeding, plaque, and calculus. Ten of the Somali but none of the non‐Somali participants showed periodontal breakdown (radiographical bone loss > 3 mm), corresponding to a prevalence of 12% (95% CI: 5.9, 21.0%). The presence of A. actinomycetemcomitans was almost exclusively associated with Somali participants. Further, the JP2 clone was found in five Somalis (including two periodontitis cases) confirming the association of this clone with African populations. The Somali group showed significantly higher frequencies and numbers of Porphyromonas gingivalis and Treponema denticola, implying a mature and adult type of subgingival microbiota.
Black and (thin) blue (line): Corruption and other political determinants of police killings in America
Authors: Dincer Oguzhan , Johnston Michael 
Published: December 2021

AbstractPolice violence is not uncommon in America, and the risk of civilians' being killed by police is considerably higher here than in similar countries, making it a major public health issue. For Black Americans the risk is significantly higher. In this study, we analyze the political determinants of police killings of Black Americans, with a specific focus on corruption in American states. Our evidence suggests that police can kill Black Americans with impunity because of a lack of accountability—exemplified by corruption—that is largely determined by political influences. Our findings point to ways in which the responsibility for police violence and killings is deeply rooted and influenced by the values of the wider society.
Swallowing the pill of adverse effects: A qualitative study of patients' and pharmacists' experiences and decision‐making regarding the adverse effects of chronic pain medications
Authors: Dassieu Lise , Paul‐Savoie Emilie , Develay Élise , Villela Guilhon Ana Cecilia , Lacasse Anaïs , Guénette Line , Perreault Kadija , Beaudry Hélène , Dupuis Laurent ,   the Quebec Consortium on Adverse Effects of Pain Medications
Published: December 2021

AbstractIntroductionPharmacological treatments of chronic pain can lead to numerous and sometimes serious adverse effects. Drawing on a social science approach to chronic illness, this study aimed to understand the experiences of people living with chronic pain and community pharmacists regarding the definition, prevention and management of analgesic adverse effects.MethodsThis qualitative study proceeded through 12 online focus groups (FGs) with people living with chronic pain (n = 26) and community pharmacists (n = 19), conducted between July 2020 and February 2021 in the province of Quebec, Canada. The semistructured discussion guides covered participants' definitions of adverse effects and decision‐making regarding their prevention and management. Discussions were audio‐recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using grounded theory.ResultsBoth people with chronic pain and pharmacists provided varying definitions of analgesic adverse effects depending on patients' social and clinical characteristics. Present quality of life and serious long‐term risks related to treatment were described as key dimensions influencing adverse effect appraisal. Dilemmas and discrepancies occurred between patients and pharmacists when choosing to prioritize pain relief or adverse effect prevention. Some patients lacked information about their medications and wanted to be more involved in decisions, while many pharmacists were concerned by patients' self‐management of adverse effects. Preventing opioid‐related overdoses often led pharmacists to policing practices. Despite most pharmacists wishing they could have a key role in the management of pain and adverse effects face organizational and financial barriers.ConclusionDefining, preventing and managing adverse effects in the treatment of chronic pain requires a person‐centred approach and shared decision‐making. Clinical training improvements and healthcare organization changes are needed to support pharmacists in providing patients with community‐based follow‐up and reliable information about the adverse effects of chronic pain treatments.Patient or Public ContributionA person with lived experience of chronic pain was involved as a coinvestigator in the study. He contributed to shaping the study design and objectives, including major methodological decisions such as the choice of pharmacists as the most appropriate professionals to investigate. In addition, 26 individuals with chronic pain shared their experiences extensively during the FGs.