Biomarkers.

Background: GRN mutations are a common cause of frontotemporal dementia (FTD), with previous studies linking granulin deficiency to reduced bis(monoacylglycerol)phosphate (BMP) levels, which ultimately impairs ganglioside degradation. BMP is involved in the lysosomal functions within cells, as it facilitates the adhesion of hydrolases and activator proteins where the lysosomal membranes meet, therefore a lack of BMP could impact lysosome function and integrity. We hypothesised that urine levels of BMP isoforms will be lower in FTD patients with GRN haploinsufficiency, as a reflection of reduced BMP in neural tissues, when compared to those with FTD caused by C9orf72 expansions and MAPT mutations, or healthy controls.

Public Health.

Background: This study aimed to assess associations between socioeconomic condition and cognitive function among Puerto Rican adults residing in the greater Boston Area.

Methods: We assessed the relationship between a score of social condition, encompassing education, income-to-poverty ratio, perceived stress, food security, and psychological acculturation, and cognitive function in a cohort of Puerto Rican Adults residing in the greater Boston area. The score was assessed over more than 12 years of follow-up and ranged from 0 (best social condition) to 15 (poorest social condition).

Asymmetry in the Onset of Paraspinal Muscles Activity Differs in Adolescents With Idiopathic Scoliosis Compared With Those With a Symmetrical Spine.

Background: Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is characterized by an asymmetrical formation of the spine and ribcage. Recent work provides evidence of asymmetrical (right versus left side) paraspinal muscle size, composition, and activation amplitude in adolescents with AIS. Each of these factors influences muscle force generation.

A service evaluation of the implementation of a novel digital intervention for hypertension self-monitoring and management system in primary care (SHIP): protocol for a mixed methods study.

Background: Hypertension is a key risk factor for death and disability, and blood pressure reduction is associated with significant reductions in cardiovascular risk. Large trials have shown that interventions including self-monitoring of blood pressure can reduce blood pressure but real-world data from wider implementation are lacking.

Aim: The self-monitoring and management service evaluation in primary care (SHIP) study will evaluate a novel digital intervention for hypertension management and medication titration platform ("Hypertension-Plus") that is currently undergoing initial implementation into primary care in several parts of the UK.