Inhibition of IL-1beta improves Glycaemia in a Mouse Model for Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is one of the most common diseases associated with pregnancy, however, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Based on the well documented role of inflammation in type 2 diabetes, the aim was to investigate the role of inflammation in GDM. We established a mouse model for GDM on the basis of its two major risk factors, obesity and aging. In these GDM mice, we observed increased Interleukin-1β (IL-1β) expression in the uterus and the placenta along with elevated circulating IL-1β concentrations compared to normoglycemic pregnant mice. Treatment with an anti-IL-1β antibody improved glucose-tolerance of GDM mice without apparent deleterious effects for the fetus. Finally, IL-1β antagonism showed a tendency for reduced plasma corticosterone concentrations, possibly explaining the metabolic improvement. We conclude that IL-1β is a causal driver of impaired glucose tolerance in GDM

Psychosocial Needs of Children in Foster Care and the Impact of Sexual Abuse

Children in family foster care, especially those who have experienced sexual abuse, require a safe and nurturing environment in which their psychosocial needs are met. However, there is limited knowledge on how youth prioritize various needs and what impact previous experiences have on these needs. In this study, we asked youth (formerly) in family foster care to indicate their psychosocial needs, and analyzed if youth with a history of sexual abuse have different needs. A Q methodological study was conducted with 44 youth (age 16–28). Fifteen of them reported sexual abuse during their childhood. Using by-person factor analyses, respondents who share similar subjective views were grouped together. Qualitative interpretations of the factors show differences and similarities between and within the two groups, related to help from others, being independent, processing the past, and working toward the future. Although the needs of youth with and without experiences of sexual abuse seem mostly similar, one group of sexually abused youth specifically indicated not wanting an emotional connection to foster parents, but instead a strictly instrumental, professional relationship. This study captured the diverse perspectives of youth themselves, revealing that children in foster care differ with regard to what they consider as (most) important safety, belonging, self-esteem and self-actualization needs

[The (putative) pathological impact of fibromyalgia on the orofacial system].

Fibromyalgia is a syndrome without apparent aetiology, characterised by pain, fatigue, memory disorders, mood disorders, and sleep disturbances. The syndrome is considered to be one of the rheumatic diseases. In the general population, the prevalence varies from 2 to 8%, with a women-men ratio of about 2:1. Suspicion of fibromyalgia arises when a patient has pain at multiple locations that cannot be attributed to trauma or inflammation, and when the pain is especially musculoskeletal. Primary management includes explaining the syndrome and offering reassurance. In addition, one can also attempt to increase mobility, avoid overloading, and improve physical condition and the level of activity, and to activate problem-solving skills. Subsequently, behavioural therapy and pharmacotherapy may be considered. The most important manifestations of fibromyalgia in the orofacial and occlusal system seem to be temporomandibular dysfunction, headache, xerostomia, hyposalivation, burning mouth and dysgeusia. However, with respect to the precise relation of fibromyalgia with the orofacial system, much needs to be elucidated

[Microstomia as a complication of scleroderma]

Item does not contain fulltextScleroderma is a rare connective tissue disease of unknown origin. It is characterized by increased collagen deposition leading to fibrosis and degeneration of the skin and sometimes of internal organs. There are two main groups of scleroderma: circumscribed scleroderma and systemic sclerosis. Circumscribed scleroderma is limited to the skin and systemic sclerosis has involvement of internal organs. The main oral manifestation of scleroderma is microstoma, which is a limiting factor in oral selfcare and professional oral health care. A case report is presented of the treatment of a 15-year-old female scleroderma patient with microstoma

[Microstomia as a complication of scleroderma]

Scleroderma is a rare connective tissue disease of unknown origin. It is characterized by increased collagen deposition leading to fibrosis and degeneration of the skin and sometimes of internal organs. There are two main groups of scleroderma: circumscribed scleroderma and systemic sclerosis. Circumscribed scleroderma is limited to the skin and systemic sclerosis has involvement of internal organs. The main oral manifestation of scleroderma is microstoma, which is a limiting factor in oral selfcare and professional oral health care. A case report is presented of the treatment of a 15-year-old female scleroderma patient with microstoma