Fibrinogen and plasma clot properties are associated with apolipoprotein B and apolipoprotein B-containing lipoproteins in Africans.

Background: Case-control, intervention and laboratory studies have demonstrated a link between apolipoprotein B-containing lipoproteins and clot structure and thrombosis. There is, however, limited evidence on population level.

Objectives: We determined the cross-sectional relationship between lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and apolipoprotein B (ApoB) with fibrinogen and plasma clot properties in 1 462 Black South Africans, a population with higher fibrinogen and Lp(a) levels compared with individuals of European descent.

Lipoprotein(a) and cardiovascular disease.

Elevated plasma levels of lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) are a prevalent, independent, and causal risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and calcific aortic valve disease. Lp(a) consists of a lipoprotein particle resembling low density lipoprotein and the covalently-attached glycoprotein apolipoprotein(a) (apo(a)). Novel therapeutics that specifically and potently lower Lp(a) levels are currently in advanced stages of clinical development, including in large, phase 3 cardiovascular outcomes trials.

What's next for lipoprotein(a)? A national lipid association report from an expert panel discussion.

This is an exciting time in the lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) field. Attention to this important lipoprotein and potent cardiovascular risk marker is transitioning from the purview of the specialist to that of the general practitioner. Its clinical adoption as an important test is increasing in momentum.

Short Version of the Quality of Life Relevance-Acne Questionnaire.

Introduction: The goal of the present study was to develop a short version (SV) of the Quality of Life Relevance-Acne (QOLRELEVANCE-ACNE) based on the identified most relevant items for acne patients.

Methods: Members of the international internet group for acne patients were asked to fill in the short prototype version of the QOLRELEVANCE-ACNE. Internal consistency was measured using Cronbach's alpha.

Topical treatment of pyoderma gangrenosum: A systematic review.

Systemic immunosuppressants are the mainstay of treatment for pyoderma gangrenosum (PG), but they generally have significant side effects which may be avoided by limiting treatment to topical therapy. This review aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of topical treatments for PG. An extensive literature search identified nineteen suitable publications for analysis, including two open cohort studies, five case series and twelve single case reports.

Happiness across the borders-A cross-sectional study among patients with psoriasis and atopic dermatitis in Europe.

Background: Dermatological research has traditionally concentrated on evaluating mental comorbidities, neglecting positive concepts like happiness. Initial studies indicate that psoriasis and atopic dermatitis (AD) impair the happiness of those affected. Considering global happiness variations, this study aimed to explore the disease- and country-specific differences in disease-related quality of life and happiness, and potential influential factors on heuristic happiness among psoriasis and AD patients in Europe.

Identification of heparin interaction sites on thrombin-activatable fibrinolysis inhibitor that modulate plasmin-mediated activation, thermal stability, and antifibrinolytic potential.

Background: Thrombin-activatable fibrinolysis inhibitor (TAFI) is a plasma zymogen that provides a molecular link between coagulation and fibrinolysis. Studies have shown that the presence of glycosaminoglycans accelerates TAFI activation by plasmin and stabilizes activated TAFI (TAFIa).

Objectives: We aimed to define the elements of TAFI structure that allow these effects.

Development of the acne-specific quality of life questionnaire Quality of Life Relevance-Acne.

Background: Participating members of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology Task Forces on quality of life (QoL) and Patient Oriented Outcomes and Acne, Rosacea and Hidradenitis Suppurativa initiated data collection in 9 European countries and formed the list of the most relevant topics for acne patients.

Objective: The aim of this study was to develop a new acne-specific health-related QoL instrument based on the list of the most relevant topics for acne patients.

Methods: After assessment by acne patients ( = 715) on how clear and relevant the items in the prototype questionnaire were, a group of experts on acne and QoL performed discussions on items inclusion, which resulted in a series of 21 items.

Optimization of plasma-based BioID identifies plasminogen as a ligand of ADAMTS13.

ADAMTS13, a disintegrin and metalloprotease with a thrombospondin type 1 motif, member 13, regulates the length of Von Willebrand factor (VWF) multimers and their platelet-binding activity. ADAMTS13 is constitutively secreted as an active protease and is not inhibited by circulating protease inhibitors. Therefore, the mechanisms that regulate ADAMTS13 protease activity are unknown.

Burden of atopic dermatitis in Europe: A population-centred approach leveraging web search data in 21 European countries.

Background: The complexity, high prevalence, and substantial personal and socioeconomic burden collectively render atopic dermatitis (AD) a major public health concern. Using crowdsourced Internet data has the potential to provide unique insights into this concern, as demonstrated by several previous studies. However, a comprehensive comparison across European countries remains lacking.

A focused update to the 2019 NLA scientific statement on use of lipoprotein(a) in clinical practice.

Since the 2019 National Lipid Association (NLA) Scientific Statement on Use of Lipoprotein(a) in Clinical Practice was issued, accumulating epidemiological data have clarified the relationship between lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] level and cardiovascular disease risk and risk reduction. Therefore, the NLA developed this focused update to guide clinicians in applying this emerging evidence in clinical practice. We now have sufficient evidence to support the recommendation to measure Lp(a) levels at least once in every adult for risk stratification.

Scleroderma Secondary to Pembrolizumab: A Case Report and Review of 19 Cases of Anti-PD-1-Induced Scleroderma.

Immune checkpoint inhibitors are increasingly being used to treat various malignancies. Despite their efficacy, they are known to potentially cause immune-related adverse effects, including dermatological manifestations. A rare cutaneous immune-related adverse effect is scleroderma, which has been reported to occur with anti-programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) agents such as pembrolizumab and nivolumab.

Staying connected: An umbrella review of meta-analyses on the push-and-pull of social connection in depression.

Background: Depression affects approximately 4 % of the global population and has huge social and economic implications. Social factors, including support, engagement, and stigma, play a crucial role in the development and severity of depression.

Methods: We provide a synthesis of the consistency and magnitude of the association between measures of social connection and depression.

Optimal Dosing of Levetiracetam for Seizure Prophylaxis in Critically Ill Patients: A Prospective Observational Study.

Objectives: Critically ill patients eliminate levetiracetam (LEV) more rapidly than healthy controls, yet low doses are commonly used for seizure prophylaxis in the ICU setting. We compared the rates of achievement of target serum levels and new onset seizure (clinical and/or electrographic) among patients who received low (500 mg bid) versus high (750-1,000 mg bid) dose LEV.

Design: Prospective, observational study.

Responsiveness and Minimal Clinically Important Difference of the Infants and Toddlers Dermatology Quality of Life Questionnaire.

Background: The Infants and Toddlers Dermatology Quality of Life (InToDermQoL) is the dermatology-specific proxy health-related quality of life (HRQoL) instrument for children from birth to 4 years. The aim of the present study was to confirm the responsiveness and establish minimal clinically important difference (MCID) for the InToDermQoL.

Methods: Parents of children with skin diseases were asked to fill in the InToDermQoL at the initial visit (T1) and subsequent consultation (T2).