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Abstract Background Haemoglobin variation (ΔHb) induced by fluid transfer through the intestitium has been proposed as a useful tool for detecting hydrostatic pulmonary oedema (HPO). However, its use in the emergency department (ED) setting still needs to be determined. Methods In this observational retrospective monocentric study, ED patients admitted for acute dyspnoea were enrolled. Hb values were recorded both at ED presentation (T0) and after 4 to 8 h (T1). ΔHb between T1 and T0 (ΔHbT1-T0) was calculated as absolute and relative value. Two investigators, unaware of Hb values, defined the cause of dyspnoea as HPO and non-HPO. ΔHbT1-T0 ability to detect HPO was evaluated. A machine learning approach was used to develop a predictive tool for HPO, by considering the ability of ΔHb as covariate, together with baseline patient characteristics. Results Seven-hundred-and-six dyspnoeic patients (203 HPO and 503 non-HPO) were enrolled over 19 months. Hb levels were significantly different between HPO and non-HPO patients both at T0 and T1 (p

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a connective tissue disorder characterized by microvascular injury, extracellular matrix deposition, autoimmunity, inflammation, and fibrosis. The clinical complexity and high heterogeneity of the disease make the discovery of potential therapeutic targets difficult. However, the recent progress in the comprehension of its pathogenesis is encouraging. Growth Arrest-Specific 6 (Gas6) and Tyro3, Axl, and MerTK (TAM) receptors are involved in multiple biological processes, including modulation of the immune response, phagocytosis, apoptosis, fibrosis, inflammation, cancer development, and autoimmune disorders. In the present manuscript, we review the current evidence regarding SSc pathogenesis and the role of the Gas6/TAM system in several human diseases, suggesting its likely contribution in SSc and highlighting areas where further research is necessary to fully comprehend the role of TAM receptors in this condition. Indeed, understanding the involvement of TAM receptors in SSc, which is currently unknown, could provide valuable insights for novel potential therapeutic targets.

Abstract Background Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a frequent manifestation at the onset of type 1 diabetes mellitus in children, possibly associated with a wide range of complications, often as a consequence of wrong or delayed treatment. Due to its complex and risky management, direct exposure to real situations alone is not sufficient to achieve adequate skills in pediatric DKA for residents. Simulation could be a valuable aid, allowing to practice a standardized scenario of a complex real-world situation. We aimed to test the effectiveness of a standardized scenario of pediatric DKA in teaching its recognition and treatment. Methods We develop a standardized scenario able to guide step-by-step the learners through the flowchart of DKA management and considering alternative evolutions in the case of possible deviations from guidelines. It was a real-life simulation with the use of a high-fidelity pediatric simulator. It was played by 78 pediatrics 20 and emergency medicine residents. At the end of the simulation, a validated questionnaire was administered to collect feedback from participants regarding the impact of the simulation on learning. All materials to reproduce the DKA scenario are provided. Results Overall, the scenario was rated as realistic (mean score 4.37 ± 0.68, from 1 to 5) and relevant to professional training (4.72 ± 0.47), useful in increasing confidence in interpreting laboratory tests (3.97 ± 0.65), group organization and communication strategies (3.49 ± 0.94), and managing the treatment of DKA (3.46 ± 0.92). Conclusions The use of a standardized scenario of pediatric DKA may be a valid tool to reinforce theoretical knowledge in residents, both in pediatrics and in emergency medicine, and to directly and safely practice pediatric DKA management.

IntroductionThe protein growth arrest-specific 6 (Gas6) and its tyrosine kinase receptors Tyro-3, Axl, and Mer (TAM) are ubiquitous proteins involved in regulating inflammation and apoptotic body clearance. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system leading to progressive and irreversible disability if not diagnosed and treated promptly. Gas6 and TAM receptors have been associated with neuronal remyelination and stimulation of oligodendrocyte survival. However, few data are available regarding clinical correlation in MS patients. We aimed to evaluate soluble levels of these molecules in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and serum at MS diagnosis and correlate them with short-term disease severity.MethodsIn a prospective cohort study, we enrolled 64 patients with a diagnosis of clinical isolated syndrome (CIS), radiological isolated syndrome (RIS) and relapsing–remitting (RR) MS according to the McDonald 2017 Criteria. Before any treatment initiation, we sampled the serum and CSF, and collected clinical data: disease course, presence of gadolinium-enhancing lesions, and expanded disability status score (EDSS). At the last clinical follow-up, we assessed EDSS and calculated MS severity score (MSSS) and age-related MS severity (ARMSS). Gas6 and TAM receptors were determined using an ELISA kit (R&D Systems) and compared to neurofilament (NFLs) levels evaluated with SimplePlex™ fluorescence-based immunoassay.ResultsAt diagnosis, serum sAxl was higher in patients receiving none or low-efficacy disease-modifying treatments (DMTs) versus patients with high-efficacy DMTs (p = 0.04). Higher CSF Gas6 and serum sAXL were associated with an EDSS