bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Association of serum interferon alpha-2a levels with disease severity and prognosis in systemic sclerosis
Authors: Gerges Elias , Cauvet Anne , Schwarz Maximilian , Avouac Jérôme , Allanore Yannick 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Objective
To determine serum type I IFN (IFN-α2a) concentrations in SSc patients, explore its association with cytokine/chemokine expressions and evaluate correlation with the phenotype including the predictive value for interstitial lung disease (ILD) progression.

Methods
Serum samples were obtained from 200 SSc patients and 29 healthy controls. IFN-α2a levels were measured by ultrasensitive electrochemiluminescence assay. Pro-inflammatory and chemokine panels were determined by Luminex® Discovery Assay multiplex kit. Baseline SSc disease characteristics were recorded together with longitudinal data for determining ILD progression after 2 years.

Results
IFN-α2a concentrations were higher in SSc patients compared with controls, although not reaching significance [means ± SD of 49.20 ± 156.8 pg/ml vs 9.606 ± 4.399 pg/ml, respectively (P = 0.158)]. Using the cut-off of 15.9 pg/ml, we identified 62 patients as having a type 1 (T1) IFN signature in their circulation. Patients with an IFN signature had significantly higher levels of chemokines (CCL8, CCL19, CXCL10, CXCL11) and the cytokine IL-1α compared with those without an IFN signature. IFN-α2a concentrations strongly correlated with a T1 IFN-related chemokine score supporting activation of this pathway. Phenotyping association queries revealed association between IFN values and both skin and ILD involvements at baseline. Longitudinal data did not identify IFN as a predictive marker for ILD progression.

Conclusion
Using serum determinations, the activation of the T1 IFN pathway showed strong correlations with inflammatory mediators and associations with clinical manifestations, especially skin fibrosis and ILD in SSc patients. However, activated IFN pathway was not predictive of ILD progression.
Impact of treatments on fatigue in axial spondyloarthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Delcourt Clémentine , Fakih Olivier , Prati Clément , Chouk Mickaël , Wendling Daniel , Verhoeven Frank 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Objectives
Fatigue is frequent in axial SpA (axSpA) and is difficult to improve. This systematic review aimed to assess the effects of axSpA treatment on fatigue.

Methods
A systematic review following the PRISMA recommendations was performed on PubMed, Cochrane and Embase databases. We included controlled interventional studies, cohort studies conducted in patients with axSpA meeting the ASAS 2009 criteria and measuring fatigue between 12 and 156 weeks of treatment. We excluded studies not written in English, case reports, abstracts, systematic reviews, meta-analysis and studies with missing data. A meta-analysis was performed for anti-TNF/anti-IL-17/JAK inhibitors randomized controlled trials evaluating fatigue at week 12–16.

Results
A total of 1672 studies were identified, of which 34 were selected for analysis. Twelve studies evaluated anti-TNF with a significant reduction in fatigue measured by various scores (FACIT, MFI, NRS, VAS, FSS) in 11 studies. Among the four studies evaluating anti-IL-17, three showed a reduction in fatigue, with a dose effect for secukinumab. Two studies evaluated JAK inhibitors and showed a reduction in fatigue. The meta-analysis showed no differences between the DMARDs. Concerning non-pharmacological treatments, 12 of 16 studies showed a reduction in fatigue using physical activity, cryotherapy and magnetotherapy. Two studies showed that the addition of physical activity to anti-TNF reduced fatigue more significantly. Finally, one study showed a greater efficacy in men, and two studies suggested it in non-radiographic form.

Conclusion
This review shows a beneficial effect of DMARD and non-pharmacological treatment on fatigue in axSpA in short and medium terms with a greater effect when combining them.
Donatio mortis causa: new signs of life? Rahman v Hassan [2024] EWHC 1290 (Ch)
Authors: Moppett William 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
In Rahman v Hassan [2024] EWHC 1290 (Ch), HHJ Paul Matthews held that registered land and online bank and shareholding accounts can form the subject-matter of donatio mortis causa, and that, respectively, handing over the land certificate or certain lease documents, and sharing the login/password, can suffice for ‘parting with dominion’ over them. It is suggested that difficulty regarding these assets stems from ambiguity as to whether the function of the ‘sufficient step to implement’/‘parting with dominion’ element(s) of the doctrine is to evidence donative intention or to perform a ‘transitive’ function (and, if the latter, what that function is).
The effect of methionine supplementation on receiving beef steers following a lipopolysaccharide challenge
Authors: Barker Samantha N , Jackson Treylr C , Burdick Sanchez Nicole C , Carroll Jeffery A , Broadway Paul R , Hales Kristin E , Ducharme Gary , Legako Jerrad F , Richeson John T 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of methionine supplementation prior to and during a lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge on the performance and inflammatory biomarkers of receiving beef steers. Steers (n = 65; 295.8 ± 46.5 kg) were randomly assigned to 3 treatment groups: L0 = Control, receiving no supplement; L1 = 10 g/hd/d rumen-protected methionine (MetaSmart, Adisseo USA Inc., Alpharetta, GA); and L2 = 20 g/hd/d rumen-protected methionine and fed for 40 d at the West Texas A&M University Research Feedlot. On day 40, a subset of steers (n = 32; L0 = 10; L1 = 11; L2 = 11) were transported to the USDA Livestock Issues Research Unit, and on day 41 steers were weighed and fitted with indwelling rectal thermometers and jugular catheters. On day 42, steers were challenged i.v. with LPS (0.25 µg/kg BW). Blood samples were collected at −2, 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 18, 24, 36, and 48 h relative to the LPS administration at 0 h. Serum was isolated to determine serum chemistry and inflammatory marker concentrations. Whole blood was used for hematology analysis. There were no differences in DMI or ADG (P ≥ 0.75) during 35 d of supplementation. A treatment × time interaction (P = 0.01) occurred for rectal temperature, where L2 steers had the greatest temperature following the challenge (P ≤ 0.05) compared to L1 and L0 steers. There was a treatment × time interaction (P = 0.03) for the change in white blood cells where L0 steers had the greatest change compared to L1 and L2 steers at various timepoints. There was a treatment × time interaction (P = 0.02) for the change in tumor necrosis factor-α concentration, where there was a greater increase in concentration in L0 compared to L1 and L2 steers. Additionally, there was a treatment × time interaction (P &lt; 0.01) for Macrophage Inflammatory Protein-1β (MIP-1β) concentrations, where concentrations were greater in L0 compared with L1 and L2 steers from 2 to 4 h post-challenge. There was a treatment × time interaction for plasma total protein concentration (P &lt; 0.01) where L0 steers had less plasma total protein compared with L1 and L2 steers, while L1 steers had less plasma total protein than L2 steers at −2 h prior to LPS challenge. These data suggest that methionine supplementation may have an immunomodulatory effect in beef steers that may improve response to pathogens.
Trophoblast‐specific overexpression of adiponectin receptor 2 causes fetal growth restriction in pregnant mice
Authors: Dumolt Jerad H. , Rosario Fredrick J. , Barentsen Kenneth , Urschitz Johann , Powell Theresa L. , Jansson Thomas 
Published: October 2024

AbstractMaternal obesity in pregnancy is strongly associated with complications such as fetal overgrowth and infants of obese mothers have an increased risk to develop obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease later in life. However, the underlying mechanisms are not well established. Circulating levels of adiponectin are low in obese pregnant women and maternal circulating adiponectin is negatively associated with birth weight. We have reported that normalizing maternal adiponectin in obese pregnant mice prevents placental dysfunction, fetal overgrowth, and programming of offspring cardio‐metabolic disease. However, the mechanistic link between maternal adiponectin, placental function, and fetal growth remains to be established. We hypothesized that trophoblast‐specific overexpression of the adiponectin receptor 2 (Adipor2) in healthy pregnant mice inhibits placental mTORC1 signaling and nutrient transport, resulting in fetal growth restriction. Using lentiviral transduction of blastocysts with a mammalian gene expression lentiviral vector for up‐regulation of Adipor2 (Adipor2‐OX), we achieved a ~ 3‐fold increase in placenta Adipor2 mRNA levels and a 2‐fold increase of the ADIPOR2 protein in the trophoblast plasma membrane. Placenta‐specific Adipor2‐OX increased placental peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐α phosphorylation, ceramide synthase expression and ceramide concentrations. Furthermore, Adipor2‐OX inhibited placental mTORC1 signaling and reduced in vivo placental transport of glucose and amino acids. Lastly, Adipor2‐OX reduced fetal weight by 11%. These data provide mechanistic evidence that placental Adipor2 signaling directly affects fetal growth. We propose that low circulating adiponectin in maternal obesity causes fetal overgrowth and programs the offspring for cardio‐metabolic disease mediated by a direct effect on placental function.
Combining Ultrasonography and Endometrial Aspiration as a One-Stop Screening for Endometrial Neoplasia
Authors: Rotenberg Ohad , Doulaveris Georgios , Goldberg Gary L. , Renz Malte , Whitney Kathleen , Dar Leeann , Rotenberg Noam , Wu Haotian , Van den Bosch Thierry , Dar Pe'er 
Published: October 2024

OBJECTIVE:
To assess the performance of simultaneous endometrial aspiration and sonohysterography to screen for endometrial cancer or hyperplasia in women aged 50 years or older.

METHODS:
We conducted a prospective study from February 2014 to October 2020 at the ultrasound unit of a large urban academic medical center. The study included 1,635 women aged 50 years or older referred for endometrial evaluation, with follow-up through January 2021. Participants underwent saline infusion sonohysterography combined with ultrasound-guided endometrial aspiration. The primary outcome measured was a diagnosis of endometrial cancer or hyperplasia within 1 year from screening. The diagnostic accuracy of the combined evaluation method, including sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV), was assessed.

RESULTS:
Of 1,170 women who completed the study protocol, 82 (7.0%) had endometrial cancer and 42 (3.6%) had endometrial hyperplasia. Of all patients who developed cancer during the follow-up period, 85.5% were diagnosed within 1 year after evaluation. The application of simultaneous endometrial aspiration and sonohysterography together demonstrated a sensitivity of 99.1%, specificity of 24.9%, PPV of 11.8%, and NPV of 99.6%. Using a theoretical sequential approach, assuming an endometrial aspiration is performed only in patients determined to be high risk by sonohysterography, demonstrated a sensitivity of 93.4%, specificity of 99.9%, PPV of 99.0%, and NPV of 99.3%.

CONCLUSION:
Simultaneous endometrial aspiration and sonohysterography is an effective one-stop outpatient screening tool for detecting endometrial cancer and hyperplasia in women aged 50 years or older. With the integration of two screening modalities into a single procedure, simultaneous endometrial aspiration and sonohysterography may overcome the limitations inherent in each of the currently recommended methods individually, potentially improving patient prognosis and streamlining the diagnostic process.
Effectiveness of Platelet-rich Plasma Injection as an Adjunct Treatment to Arthroscopy for TFCC Injury: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Asiry Abdulaziz , Dabbagh Armaghan , Mortada Hatan , Merlini Lorenzo 
Published: October 2024

Background:
Triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) injuries can cause significant patient dysfunction. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has emerged as a potential adjunctive treatment for arthroscopic TFCC repair, with some studies suggesting improved outcomes. This study aims to evaluate and compare PRP as an adjunctive treatment in arthroscopic TFCC tear repair.

Methods:
This retrospective cohort study examined patients undergoing arthroscopic TFCC repair at Institut de la Main, Paris, France (December 2021–2022). Patients were split into two groups: arthroscopic repair alone (1) and repair with PRP injections (2). Physical examinations were conducted pre- and posttreatment, recording flexion, extension, and radial/ulnar deviation of the affected and contralateral wrists.

Results:
A total of 33 patients (20 men and 13 women) with a mean age of 30.55 ± 9.17 years were included. PRP injections were given to 16 patients with arthroscopic TFCC repair; 17 had repair only. No significant differences existed preoperatively between groups in wrist function or pain (P > 0.05). The Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score differed significantly (P = 0.004). The non-PRP group demonstrated better postoperative upper extremity function, with a mean Quick DASH score of 7.75 ± 5.91 compared with 12.64 ± 6.79 in the PRP group. No significant difference between groups was observed in the pain visual analog scale (P > 0.05).

Conclusions:
PRP injections with TFCC repair did not improve function over repair alone. The non-PRP group showed better function (lower Quick DASH scores). Pain reduction was similar between groups. Larger trials and cost-effectiveness studies are needed to fully assess PRP’s benefits in TFCC repair.
The Utility of Serologic TORCH Testing During Pregnancy for Maternal-related Versus Fetal-related Indications: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Abu Shqara Raneen , Kaufman Maya , Or Shany , Glikman Daniel , Lowenstein Lior , Frank Wolf Maya 
Published: October 2024

Background:
Clear guidelines have not been established about the utility of TORCH serology testing in women for whom TORCH infection is suspected according to clinical and laboratory manifestations during pregnancy. We aimed to compare rates of TORCH infections [specifically cytomegalovirus (CMV), Toxoplasma and rubella] in women who underwent TORCH serology testing due to maternal- versus fetal-related indications.

Methods:
This 10-year single-center retrospective study included all the women beyond 24 weeks of gestation who underwent TORCH serology testing due to maternal- or fetal-related indications. Maternal-related indications included fever, gastroenteritis, elevated liver enzymes and thrombocytopenia. Fetal-related indications included intrauterine growth restriction, polyhydramnios and oligohydramnios.

Results:
During the study period, 304 women underwent TORCH serology testing due to maternal-related indications and 771 due to fetal-related indications. For the maternal-related compared with the fetal-related indication group, maternal and congenital TORCH infections were more prevalent (P = 0.015), specifically CMV (P = 0.036). Eight (2.6%) of the women with maternal-related indications had a primary TORCH infection; 4 of them (50%) had concomitant congenital infections. Six (0.8%) of the women with fetal-related indications had a primary infection; none had a related congenital infection. Among the women with maternal-related indications, higher rates of maternal TORCH infection were found among those with thrombocytopenia (7.1%) and elevated liver enzymes (3.0%). During the study period, maternal-indicated TORCH testing detected 10.8% of neonates born with a confirmed TORCH infection.

Conclusions:
The clinical yield of TORCH serology for nonspecific sonographic fetal features was low. Nonetheless, maternal-related indications should prompt testing for CMV and Toxoplasma infection.
Clozapine-Associated Sialorrhea
Authors: Gürcan Gamze , Atalay Berk , Deveci Ece 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Clozapine has demonstrated efficacy in treating treatment-resistant schizophrenia; however, it has a wide range of side effects. Sialorrhea is a common side effect of clozapine that causes the patient to withdraw from social life. This review aims to evaluate and summarize the prevalence, mechanism, risk factors, and management of clozapine-associated sialorrhea.

Procedures
The literature was explored for the prevalence, the mechanisms, the risk factors, and the management of sialorrhea. The following search strings and terms were used: “clozapine,” “sialorrhea,” “hypersalivation,” “clozapine induced sialorrhea,” and “clozapine induced hypersalivation”.

Study Results
Hypersalivation is one of the most common side effects of clozapine. Over the course of clozapine therapy, hypersalivation has been reported to have an incidence of 30% to –80%. Although different treatment approaches are applied on a case-by-case basis in the clinic, depending on the practitioners' preferences, there is a lack of clear guidelines for managing this common side effect that jeopardizes patients' social life.

Conclusions
It is important for healthcare professionals and patients that some clear treatment options for clozapine-associated sialorrhea are brought to the forefront and widely used, especially based on the research conducted to date.
How illness perception congruence between patients with cancer and caregivers affects their anxiety and depression levels
Authors: Salduz Mehmet , Suiçmez Tuğba Uyar , Uncu Doğan 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background:
This study aimed to investigate the similarities or discrepancies in illness perception between patients with cancer and their primary caregivers by examining the predictive effect of illness congruence on anxiety and depression in both patients and caregivers.

Methods:
A total of 106 patients with cancer with outpatient chemotherapy aged 18–65 years (M = 49.60; SD = 11.35; 60.4% female) and 106 caregivers aged 18–65 years (M = 42.97; SD = 12.51; 50.9% female) participated in the study, which was conducted at the outpatient chemotherapy unit of a large public hospital. Data were collected through convenience sampling using a cross-sectional design. Depression and anxiety levels were measured using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, whereas illness perception was measured using the Brief Illness Perception Scale.

Results:
Multiple hierarchical regression analysis determined that higher illness perception congruence significantly predicted higher anxiety levels in patients with cancer after controlling for demographic variables.

Conclusion:
The results revealed that higher illness perception congruence between patients and their caregivers was associated with increased anxiety in patients with cancer. Both patients and caregivers perceiving the illness negatively might have accounted for the higher anxiety levels of the patients. Furthermore, the findings demonstrate and emphasize the vital role of further dyadic investigations, in which family members are also involved.
Toward a public outreach and community engagement strategy on cancer in Newfoundland and Labrador: an initial road map and recommendations
Authors: Savas Sevtap , King John , King Krista , Etchegary Holly , Whitten Cindy , Wiseman Jason , Peddle Darrell , Bishop Derrick 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background:
The province of Newfoundland and Labrador has one of the highest incidence and mortality rates for cancer among the Canadian provinces. Sharing accessible knowledge on cancer is an important part of cancer control and population health efforts. However, bringing useful health information and knowledge exchange events to residents requires an efficient and accessible system.

Objectives:
We aimed to create a road map and recommendations for effective public outreach and community engagement on cancer in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Methods:
We used the following information, experience, or public engagement tools to gather information to inform our work: discussions with the members of the Public Interest Group on Cancer Research, researchers' experiences with recruitment and knowledge translation activities, feedback provided to 2 public conferences delivered (Public Conference on Genetics delivered in 2020 and Public Conference on Cancer delivered in 2022—where the target audience was general public), and 2 public town halls (one in-person, one virtual) and 2 individual consultation sessions with key stakeholders. Information gathered was then summarized.

Results:
We identified a rich set of cancer-related topics for which to organize public events on cancer. In addition, a large number of public outreach and engagement options were identified, emphasizing the fragmented, inefficient, and resource-intensive nature of public outreach and community engagement efforts in the province. Based on the information collected, we developed an initial road map and recommendations to inform future public engagement activities and strategies. In addition, our group has started to implement the road map for our current and future public engagement activities.

Conclusions:
We present key cancer-related topics that are of public interest and issues and opportunities for recruitment and delivery of knowledge and events to residents of Newfoundland and Labrador. This information can be useful for researchers, organizations, and the health care system in the province. However, more inclusive consultations, larger collaborations, funding, and systematic data collection are needed to build a province-wide public outreach network on cancer and to identify more comprehensive public engagement options. The work presented here can potentially guide these efforts. Our work is also expected to inspire other provinces, states, and communities to assess their public outreach status and help develop road maps co-led by patients to progress their public engagement efforts in cancer.