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Background and aims Many women quit smoking during pregnancy, but relapse after the baby is born. To understand why and identify ways of preventing this, this study reviewed the qualitative literature on women's experience of postpartum smoking relapse. Methods A systematic review of qualitative studies and process evaluations of trials. We undertook a thematic synthesis of published qualitative data. Results We screened 1336 papers. Twenty-two papers reporting on 16 studies were included, reporting on the views of 1031 postpartum women. Factors affecting relapse and barriers and facilitators to relapse prevention were identified around the key themes of beliefs, social influences, motivation, physiological factors and identity. Women's beliefs about smoking as a means of coping with stress and the need for social support, especially from a partner, emerged as important. Extrinsic motivation to quit during the pregnancy (for the health of the fetus) appeared to be a factor in prompting relapse after the baby was born. During the immediate postpartum period women believed that physiological changes influence cigarette cravings. The stress of caring for a newborn, sleeplessness and adjusting to a new mothering identity were also reported to be important. Conclusions Among women who quit smoking during pregnancy, those who relapse postpartum talk commonly about no longer needing to protect the baby and the effects of stress. Partner support and a sense of changed identity are cited as factors preventing relapse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to compare the effects of laparoscopic repeat liver resection (LRLR) and open repeat liver resection (ORLR) on surgical site wound infection and pain in recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma. PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and Wanfang Data were systematically searched for studies comparing LRLR with ORLR for the treatment of recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma, with a search timeframe from their inception to December 2022. Two investigators independently screened the literature, extracted information, and evaluated the quality of the studies according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. This study was performed using RevMan 5.4 software. A total of 20 publications with 4380 patients were included, with 1108 and 3289 patients in the LRLR and ORLR groups, respectively. The results showed that LRLR significantly reduced surgical site wound infection rate (1.71% vs. 5.16%, odds ratio [OR]:0.32, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.18‐0.56, P <.001), superficial wound infection rate (1.29% vs. 4.92%, OR: 0.29, 95% CI: 0.14‐0.58, P <.001), bile leakage (3.34% vs. 6.05%, OR: 0.59, 95% CI: 0.39‐0.90, P =.01), organ/space wound infection rate (0.4% vs. 5.11%, OR: 0.23, 95% CI: 0.07‐0.81, P =.02), and surgical site wound pain (mean difference: −2.00, 95% CI: −2.99 to −1.02, P <.001). Thus, the findings of this study showed that LRLR for recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma significantly reduced wound infection rates and improved postoperative wound pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Time‐to‐isolation (TTI) guided second‐generation cryoballoon (CB2) ablation has been shown to be effective for pulmonary vein isolation (PVI). Objective: The objective of this paper is to compare the safety and clinical outcome of CB2 PVI using the TTI guided 4 minutes vs 3 minutes freeze protocol. Methods: This was a propensity‐matched study based on an institutional database. Symptomatic atrial fibrillation (AF) patients who underwent CB2 PVI and systematic follow‐up were consecutively included. Results: A total of 573 patients were identified, of them 214 (107 matched‐pairs) symptomatic AF (paroxysmal AF: 61%, persistent AF: 39%) patients (age: 67.7 ± 11.2 years) were analyzed. The baseline characteristics were comparable between the two groups. Procedural time was significantly longer in the 4 minutes group compared to 3 minutes group (67.2 ± 21.8 vs 55.9 ± 16.9 minutes, P <.0001). During a mean follow‐up of 2 years, the 4 minutes group was associated with a significantly higher rate of freedom from arrhythmia recurrence compared with the 3 minutes group (66.4% vs 56.1%, P =.009), which was mainly driven by patients with persistent AF. The multivariate regression showed that the 4 minutes freeze was the independent predictor of freedom from arrhythmia recurrence. During the repeat procedure, the 4 minutes group was associated with a significantly higher rate of durable PVI. There was no difference regarding procedural adverse events between the two groups. Conclusion: As compared with the 3 minutes freeze, the TTI guided 4 minutes freeze is associated with a significantly higher rate of arrhythmia‐free and durable PVI without compromising the safety profile, patients with persistent AF may benefit from the TTI guided 4 minutes freeze more pronouncedly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aimed to examine the effect of breastfeeding on longitudinal patterns of common infections up to 2 years and respiratory symptoms up to 8 years. To assess the incidence and reoccurrence of infections and allergic symptoms in the first years of life among 1,603 children from the EDEN mother–child cohort, distinct longitudinal patterns of infectious diseases as well as skin rash and respiratory symptoms were identified by group‐based trajectory modelling. To characterize infections, we considered the parent‐reported number of cold/nasopharyngitis and diarrhoea from birth to 12 months and otitis and bronchitis/bronchiolitis from birth to 2 years. To characterize allergy‐related symptoms, we considered the parent‐reported occurrence of wheezing and skin rash from 8 months to 8 years and asthma from 2 to 8 years. Then associations between breastfeeding and these longitudinal patterns were assessed through adjusted multinomial logistic regression. Compared with never‐breastfed infants, ever‐breastfed infants were at a lower risk of diarrhoea events in early infancy as well as infrequent events of bronchitis/bronchiolitis throughout infancy. Only predominant breastfeeding duration was related to frequent events of bronchitis/bronchiolitis and infrequent events of otitis. We found no significant protective effect of breastfeeding on longitudinal patterns of cold/nasopharyngitis, skin rash, or respiratory symptoms. For an infant population with a short breastfeeding duration, on average, our study confirmed a protective effect of breastfeeding on diarrhoea events in early infancy, infrequent bronchitis/bronchiolitis and, to a lesser extent, infrequent otitis events up to 2 years but not on other infections, skin rash, or respiratory symptoms4. In an infant population with a short breastfeeding duration and using longitudinal patterns of infection, skin rash and respiratory symptoms, on average, our study confirmed a protective effect of breastfeeding on diarrhea events in early infancy, infrequent bronchitis/bronchiolitis and, to a lesser extent,infrequent otitis events up to 2 years but not on cold/ nasopharyngitis, skin rash or respiratory symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims Individuals with methamphetamine dependence ( MD) exhibit dysfunction in brain regions involved in goal maintenance and reward processing when compared with healthy individuals. We examined whether these characteristics also reflect relapse vulnerability within a sample of MD patients. Design Longitudinal, with functional magnetic resonance imaging ( fMRI) and clinical interview data collected at baseline and relapse status collected at 1-year follow-up interview. Setting Keck Imaging Center, University of California San Diego, USA. Participants MD patients ( n = 60) enrolled into an in-patient drug treatment program at baseline. MD participants remaining abstinent at 1-year follow-up (abstinent MD group; n = 42) were compared with MD participants who relapsed within this period (relapsed MD group; n = 18). Measurements Behavioral and neural responses to a reinforcement learning (paper-scissors-rock) paradigm recorded during an fMRI session at time of treatment. Findings The relapsed MD group exhibited greater bilateral inferior frontal gyrus ( IFG) and right striatal activation than the abstinent MD group during the learning of reward contingencies ( Cohen's d range: 0.60-0.83). In contrast, the relapsed MD group displayed lower bilateral striatum, bilateral insula, left IFG and left anterior cingulate activation than the abstinent MD group ( Cohen's d range: 0.90-1.23) in response to winning, tying and losing feedback. Conclusions Methamphetamine-dependent individuals who achieve abstinence and then relapse show greater inferior frontal gyrus activation during learning, and relatively attenuated striatal, insular and frontal activation in response to feedback, compared with methamphetamine-dependent people who remain abstinent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background: Rituximab, an anti‐CD20 B‐cell depleting monoclonal antibody, is increasingly prescribed off‐label for a range of autoimmune diseases. There has not previously been an audit of off‐label rituximab use in the Northern Territory, where the majority of patients are Aboriginal. Aims: To evaluate retrospectively off‐label rituximab use in autoimmune diseases in the Top End of the Northern Territory. Methods: We performed a retrospective audit of 8 years of off‐label rituximab use at the Royal Darwin Hospital, the sole tertiary referral centre for the Darwin, Katherine and East Arnhem regions. Electronic and paper records were reviewed for demographic information, diagnosis/indication for rituximab, doses, previous/concomitant immunosuppression, clinical outcomes and specific adverse events. Results: Rituximab was prescribed off‐label to 66 patients for 24 autoimmune diseases. The majority of patients (62.1%) were Aboriginal and 60.6% female. The most common indications were refractory/relapsing disease despite standard therapies (68.7%) or severe disease with rituximab incorporated into an induction immunosuppressive regimen (19.4%). Systemic lupus erythematosus was the underlying diagnosis in 28.8% of cases. A clinically significant response was demonstrated in 74.2% of cases overall. There were 18 clinically significant infections; however, 13 were in patients receiving concurrent immunosuppressive therapy. There was a total of nine deaths from any cause. Conclusion: Rituximab has been used off‐label for a range of autoimmune diseases in this population with a high proportion of Aboriginal patients successfully and safely in the majority of cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The assessment for safety and effectiveness of surgical interventions in the management of diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) in comparison to non‐surgical approaches was performed. A comprehensive search was performed across PubMed, MEDLINE, Cochrane Library and EMBASE in order to identify case–control studies, randomized controlled trials (RCTs), observational studies, cohort studies and observational studies pertaining to DFU treatments. Studies conducted in English language and focusing on wound healing rates, recurrence rates, time to healing and complication management met the inclusion criteria. There were six studies included in this meta‐analysis. Surgical procedures, such as debridement, revascularization and skin transplantation, demonstrated significantly superior efficacy in promoting wound healing (84%) and shorter duration of healing (6 weeks) in comparison to non‐surgical approaches, including off‐loading, wound dressings and pharmacological therapies. Surgical interventions for DFUs resulted in a wound recovery rate of 84%, a significantly higher mean rate than non‐surgical approaches (60%) that was observed. In addition, it was observed that the surgical group experienced considerably reduced average healing period of 9 weeks, in contrast to the non‐surgical group's mean healing period of 12 weeks. Nevertheless, it is imperative to acknowledge that surgical procedures were notably correlated with a heightened occurrence of complications, such as amputations, which transpired in 19% of instances. Surgical interventions for DFUs may provide superior short‐term results with regard to healing rates and recovery time, as indicated by this meta‐analysis. However, they are additionally correlated with the heightened likelihood of complications. Although non‐surgical techniques offered comparatively secure option, they were also less reliable. Individualized treatment modalities should be chosen in consideration of patient‐specific factors and comparative advantages and disadvantages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: When attempting to stop smoking, discrete smoking events ('lapses') are strongly associated with a return to regular smoking ('relapse'). No study has yet pooled the psychological and contextual antecedents of lapse incidence, captured in ecological momentary assessment (EMA) studies. This systematic review and meta‐analysis aimed to synthesize within‐person psychological and contextual predictor–lapse associations in smokers attempting to quit. Methods: We searched Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO and Web of Science. A narrative synthesis and multi‐level, random‐effects meta‐analyses were conducted, focusing on studies of adult, non‐clinical populations attempting to stop smoking, with no restrictions on setting. Outcomes were the association between a psychological (e.g. stress, cravings) or contextual (e.g. cigarette availability) antecedent and smoking lapse incidence; definitions of 'lapse' and 'relapse'; the theoretical underpinning of EMA study designs; and the proportion of studies with pre‐registered study protocols/analysis plans and open data. Results: We included 61 studies, with 19 studies contributing ≥ 1 effect size(s) to the meta‐analyses. We found positive relationships between lapse incidence and 'environmental and social cues' [k = 12, odds ratio (OR) = 4.53, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 2.02, 10.16, P = 0.001] and 'cravings' (k = 10, OR = 1.71, 95% CI = 1.34, 2.18, P < 0.001). 'Negative feeling states' was not significantly associated with lapse incidence (k = 16, OR = 1.10, 95% CI = 0.98, 1.24, P = 0.12). In the narrative synthesis, negative relationships with lapse incidence were found for 'behavioural regulation', 'motivation not to smoke' and 'beliefs about capabilities'; positive relationships with lapse incidence were found for 'positive feeling states' and 'positive outcome expectancies'. Although lapse definitions were comparable, relapse definitions varied widely across studies. Few studies explicitly drew upon psychological theory to inform EMA study designs. One of the included studies drew upon Open Science principles. Conclusions: In smokers attempting to stop, environmental and social cues and cravings appear to be key within‐person antecedents of smoking lapse incidence. Due to low study quality, the confidence in these estimates is reduced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of access flap and pocket elimination procedures in the surgical treatment of peri‐implantitis. Materials and Methods: Systematic electronic searches (Central/MEDLINE/EMBASE) up to March 2022 were conducted to identify prospective clinical studies evaluating surgical therapy (access flap or pocket elimination procedures) of peri‐implantitis. Primary outcome measures were reduction of probing depth (PD) and bleeding on probing (BOP). Risk of bias was evaluated according to study design. Meta‐analysis and meta‐regression were performed. Results were expressed as standardized mean effect with 95% confidence interval (CI). Results: Evidence from studies directly comparing surgical with non‐surgical therapy is lacking. Based on pre‐post data originating from 13 prospective patient cohorts, pronounced reductions of PD (standardized mean effect: 2.2 mm; 95% CI 1.8–2.7) and BOP% (27.0; 95% CI 19.8–34.2) as well as marginal bone level gain (0.2 mm; 95% CI –0.0 to 0.5) were observed at evaluation time points ranging from 1 to 5 years. Wide prediction intervals suggested a high degree of heterogeneity. Reduction of mean PD increased by 0.7 mm (95% CI 0.5–0.9) for every millimetre in increase of mean PD at baseline. During the follow‐up period ranging from 1 to 5 years, disease recurrence occurred frequently and implant loss was not uncommon. Conclusions: Access flap and pocket elimination surgery are effective procedures in the management of peri‐implantitis, although rates of disease recurrence during 5 years were high. Treatment outcomes were affected by baseline conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Physiotherapists are often key decision‐makers on when to refer patients with recurrent patellar dislocation for surgical opinion. Limited guidance exists to aid this decision. Differences in orthopaedic surgeons' and physiotherapists' views on which patients and when to refer people for surgical consideration or non‐operative care may affect outcome. This study aimed to explore orthopaedic surgeons and physiotherapists decision‐making surrounding treatment opinions for patients with recurrent patellar dislocation. Methods: An online survey performed. UK registered and practicing orthopaedic surgeons and physiotherapists were invited to participate. The survey utilised two vignettes and a series of related questions to ascertain respondents' views on decision‐making to surgical referral for people with recurrent patellar dislocation. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistical tests to explore factors related to responses. Results: Eighty four respondent surveys were analysed (38 surgeons, 46 physiotherapists). Overall, there was a low level of agreement amongst respondents for the management of the vignettes (k = 0.215, p = < 0.0005). Some disparity existed between the professions on the definition of recurrent patellar dislocations and the clinical features which may require an early surgical assessment. Physiotherapists were three times more likely to delay a surgical opinion for the vignettes presented in this study than the surgeons. Conclusion: This is the first study to investigate orthopaedic surgeons' and physiotherapists' views on decision‐making around surgical or non‐operative management for recurrent patellar dislocations. High‐quality research is required to underpin explicit guidance on decision‐making regarding management of recurrent patellar dislocation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Smoking cessation interventions should be promoted in cancer centers to improve clinical outcomes among cancer patients and the quality of life of cancer‐free patients and survivors. The aim of the present study was to examine long‐term abstinence (1, 3, and 5 years) among smokers who received an intensive nurse‐led smoking cessation intervention. Design: A prospective follow‐up study was conducted in a smoking cessation clinic in Barcelona. Methods: The study included 479 smokers who received a nurse‐led smoking cessation intervention that included motivational interviewing, psychological support, behavioral change counseling, promotion of smoke‐free policies, and relapse‐prevention strategies, as well as pharmacotherapy if necessary, for 12 months. We calculated overall and sex‐specific 1‐, 3‐, and 5‐year abstinence probabilities (Kaplan–Meier curves) and adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs) of relapse with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using Cox regression. Findings: The overall probability of abstinence at 1 and 5 years was 0.561 (95% CI: 0.516–0.606) and 0.364 (95% CI: 0.311–0.417), respectively. Females had a higher, but not significant, hazard ratio for relapse compared to males (aHR = 1.180; 95% CI: 0.905–1.538). Attending <5 visits was the most remarkable determinant of relapsing compared to attending 5–9 visits or ≥10 visits, both overall and by sex (p for trend: overall, p < 0.001; males, p = 0.007; and females, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Abstinence probability decreased over the 5‐year follow‐up but was relatively high. Males had higher abstinence rates than females in all follow‐up periods. Completeness of the intensive intervention was the main predictor of cessation. Clinical Relevance: Smoking cessation interventions should consider sex and incorporate strategies to increase adherence to obtain higher long‐term abstinence rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Recognizing the specific factors in relapse disorders related to each substance can help improve treatment methods and adopt more effective preventive strategies. This study aimed to compare the situational factors associated with relapse in opiate‐related disorders with stimulant‐related disorders (SRDs) of those referred to substance misuse treatment centers. Design: This study was a cross‐section type. Methods: The study participants were 150 clients with SRDs and 150 with opiate‐related disorders. Samples were selected using two stages random sampling method. Data were collected through a demographic questionnaire and the Inventory of Drug‐Taking Situations (IDTS). Results: The mean score of IDTS in the two groups was significantly different (X̄1 = 45.93 ± 11.12 vs. X̄2 = 48.34 ± 15.07; t = 3.32, p < 0.01). The mean scores of 'unpleasant emotions,' 'physical discomfort,' 'conflict with others,' and 'social pressure to use and urge/temptations' subscales were significantly higher in the stimulant group than in the opiate group (p < 0.05). However, the mean of the testing' personal control' subscale was higher in the opiate group than in the stimulant group (p < 0.05). Conclusion: This study reveals that despite some similarities, relapse‐related situational factors in opiates and stimulants differ. Some situational factors, such as social pressure and coping with unpleasant emotions, play a more critical role in relapse to both stimulant and opiate groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To examine concentrations of circulating antibodies targeting C3a and C5a complement receptors in antineutrophil cytoplasmic autoantibody (ANCA)–associated vasculitis (AAV) and analyze their association with disease activity. Methods: Concentrations of antibodies against C3a and C5a complement receptors (anti‐C3aR and anti‐C5aR) and plasma complement fragments C3a and C5a were determined in patients with AAV (n = 110; granulomatosis with polyangiitis [GPA; n = 82] or microscopic polyangiitis [MPA; n = 28]), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients as disease controls (n = 36), and healthy donors (n = 220). C3aR and C5aR expression by circulating neutrophils, monocytes, and T cells was analyzed using flow cytometry. Clinical data were assessed at time of serum sampling and during follow‐up for 60 months. Results: In AAV, anti‐C3aR and anti‐C5aR antibodies were decreased (P = 0.0026 and P ≤ 0.0001, respectively). In remission, anti‐C3aR antibody concentrations rose to values comparable to healthy donors, whereas anti‐C5aR antibody concentrations did not. In GPA, anti‐C5a and anti‐C5aR antibody concentrations inversely correlated with each other (r = −0.6831, P = 0.0127). In newly diagnosed GPA, decreased concentrations of anti‐C5aR antibodies but not anti‐C3aR antibodies were associated with disease activity (P = 0.0009). Moreover, low anti‐C5aR antibodies were associated with relapse in GPA (hazard ratio 3.54, P = 0.0009) and MPA (hazard ratio 4.41, P = 0.0041). The frequency of C5aR‐expressing cells within T cell populations was increased in GPA (P = 0.0021 for CD4+ T cells; P = 0.0118 for CD8+ T cells), but not in MPA. Conclusion: Low concentrations of anti‐C5aR antibodies reflect disease activity and are associated with an increased risk for relapse in AAV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Repair of large midline ventral hernias still represents a challenge for general surgeons. As obesity is a key factor of this type of hernias, usually the patients are presented with abdominal wall laxity, excess skin and subcutaneous fat. Combined procedures has evolved over the last six decades to repair the hernias and to improve the shape of the abdomen, but was associated with high rate of wound complications. The components separation technique for ventral hernia repair was introduced in 1990 by Ramirez et al to avoid mesh repair was associated with a high rate of success. Until recently, the convenience of simultaneously performing ventral hernia repair and abdominal contouring surgery remains controversial. The aim of this study is to present our experience in the integration of the anterior component separation technique for repair of midline wide ventral defects, with the lipoabdominoplasty in selected patients with high body mass index, to achieve a functional abdominal wall repair and to provide a better aesthetic outcome. In this prospective case–control study, 15 adult female multiparous women, all were overweight and obese, presented with midline ventral hernias and abdominal deformity was operated upon where a comprehensive technique in the form of herniorapphy, anterior component separation technique and lipoabdominoplasty were performed. The patients were followed up for 3–6 months period to monitor incidence of complications, hernia recurrence and to assess the aesthetic outcome. All the 15 patients were overweight and obese with BMI ranged between 26.5 and 39.6 kg/m2. The mean operative time was 184 ± 28.8 minutes (range 150–240 minutes). The mean postoperative length of hospital stay was 3 days ranging from 1 to 5 days. In addition to the hernia, all the patients suffered from diastasis of recti ranged from 9 to 15 cm in the transverse dimension. No mortality or major complications encountered, no hernia recurrence, only minor complications occurred in four patients (26.8%). Two patients developed seroma which resolved by aspiration, one patient suffered wound infection with partial loss of the umbilicus and one developed superficial skin necrosis at the central area of the flaps which healed uneventfully by secondary intention. All the patients were satisfied with the cosmetic outcome. In conclusion, this comprehensive approach is effective technique for reconstruction of large midline ventral defects and provide a good aesthetic appearance of the anterior and lateral abdomen in appropriately selected obese patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The objective of this study was to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of transanal endoscopic microsurgery for rectal neuroendocrine tumours. Method: A retrospective cohort study of all pathology‐confirmed rectal neuroendocrine tumours treated by transanal endoscopic microsurgery from April 2007 to December 2020 at a tertiary care centre was performed. Demographic, clinical, radiographic and pathological data were collected. Characteristics of patients with recurrence were examined. Descriptive statistics were performed. Results: There were 58 patients treated by transanal endoscopic microsurgery excision. Referrals were for primary excision (15, 25.9%), completion re‐excision after incomplete endoscopic removal (38, 65.5%) or locally recurrent rectal neuroendocrine tumours (5, 8.6%). The mean age of patients was 56.4 ± 11.9 years and 26 patients were women (44.8%). Mean tumour size was 7.4 ± 3.8 mm (range 1.0–15.0 mm). Most (86.4%) were Grade 1 tumours. Mean operative time was 37.2 ± 17.2 min and 56 patients (96.6%) were discharged on the same day. All patients had negative margins on final pathology. Of the 38 patients who were referred for completion re‐excision after incomplete endoscopic removal, eight (21.1%) had residual tumour on final pathology. Three recurrences were diagnosed at 2.1, 4.5 and 12.5 years after excision. All recurrences were from Grade 1 or 2 primary tumours, less than 2 cm, and diagnosed radiographically. Conclusion: To date, this is the largest North American study looking at transanal endoscopic microsurgery for rectal neuroendocrine tumours. This technique is effective in managing primary, incompletely excised and recurrent tumours with good clinical and oncological outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To present an updated version of the Utah Photophobia Symptom Impact Scale version 2 (UPSIS2), providing robust clinical and psychometric validation, to improve headache‐specific evaluation of light sensitivity and headache‐related photophobia. Background: The original UPSIS filled a gap in available tools for assessment of headache‐associated light sensitivity by providing patient‐reported evaluation of the impact of light sensitivity on activities of daily living (ADLs). We have since revised the original questionnaire to provide a more robust item construct and refined validation approach. Methods: We conducted a psychometric validation of the UPSIS2 through a primary analysis of an online survey of volunteers with recurrent headaches recruited from the University of Utah clinics and surrounding community. Volunteers completed the original UPSIS and UPSIS2 questionnaire versions in addition to measures of headache impact, disability, and frequency. The UPSIS2 now includes a pre‐defined recall period and a 1–4 Likert scale with standardized response anchors to improve clarity. Internal construct validity, external construct validity, and test–retest reliability, were evaluated. Results: Responses were obtained from 163 volunteers, with UPSIS2 scores ranging from 15 to 57 (out of a possible 15–60) with a mean (standard deviation) of 32.4 (8.80). Construct validity was satisfactory, as evidenced by sufficient unidimensionality, monotonicity, and local independence. Reliability was excellent, with Rasch test reliability = 0.90 and Cronbach's alpha = 0.92, and an intraclass correlation of 0.79 (95% confidence interval 0.65–0.88) for participants who took the test twice. UPSIS2 correlates well with other headache measures (Spearman's correlations >0.50), as well as the original UPSIS (Spearman's correlation = 0.87), indicating good convergent validity. UPSIS2 scores differ significantly across International Classification of Headache Disorders (third edition) groups, indicating good known group validity. Conclusion: The UPSIS2 provides a well‐validated headache‐specific outcome measure for the assessment of photophobia impact on ADLs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: (i) To evaluate the efficacy of active periodontal therapy supplemented by supportive periodontal care (SPC) in retaining dentition during a 30‐year follow‐up period in patients susceptible to periodontitis, and (ii) to assess the prognostic factors associated with tooth loss. Materials and Methods: One‐hundred and fifty‐four patients with periodontitis, retrospectively classified as stage I–IV and grade B–C periodontitis, treated between 1984 and 1986 in a private practice, were enrolled in this study. After periodontal assessment, patients received non‐surgical treatment followed by surgical periodontal therapy, orthodontic treatment, and tooth‐splinting, where appropriate. SPC consisted of a strict recall programme every 3–6 months over a 30‐year period. Recurrences were treated either with subgingival root planing or flap surgery. Dental and periodontal variables were measured at baseline (T0), end of active therapy (T1), and after 25 (T2) and 30 (T3) years. Generalized mixed models were analysed to assess the prognostic factors associated with and survival analyses for tooth loss. Results: Data on 154 patients (4083 teeth) were available at baseline (T0). Teeth considered unworthy of treatment were extracted during active therapy (160, 3.9%) and at re‐assessment (13, 0.3%; T1). After 25 years of SPC, 140 teeth out of 3910 in 154 patients (3.6%) were lost (24 in 18 patients for periodontal reasons). Between 25 and 30 years, 20 patients (482 teeth) dropped out, and 61 teeth (2%) were lost (15 in 14 patients for periodontal reasons). Overall, 201 teeth (5.1%) were lost (39 for periodontal reasons) in 30 years of SPC. Generalized mixed models showed that stage III or stage IV periodontitis was associated with greater tooth loss during SPC compared to stage I or stage II (OR = 2.10; p =.048). Generalized periodontitis showed a statistically significant OR = 3.24 (p =.016) compared to the localized one. In SPC (T1–T3), age (p =.011), gender (male; p =.038), molar teeth (p = <.001), T0 and T1 pocket depth (p = <.001), tooth mobility grades 2 (p =.018) and 3 (p =.050), T0 and T1 bone loss (p = <.001), and presence of a root canal treatment (p = <.001) and a crown (p =.009) were statistically significantly associated with tooth loss. Conclusion: (i) Periodontal therapy and a stringent SPC are effective in maintaining most of the teeth in patients with moderate/advanced periodontitis for 30 years, and (ii) age, gender, molar teeth, pocket depth, bone loss, and the presence of a root canal treatment and a crown are prognostic factors associated with tooth loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: People with type 2 diabetes can enter remission but may relapse or develop legacy complications. This analysis assesses whether people with remission from type 2 diabetes continue receiving annual care processes recommended in national guidelines and the potential impacts of formal recognition of remission. Methods: People with type 2 diabetes with and without formal recognition (diagnostic code) of remission, and with and without evidence of remission (HbA1c < 48 mmol/mol without prescription for glucose‐lowering drugs in preceding 26 weeks), included in the 2018/19 National Diabetes Audit (NDA) for England and Wales were followed up to identify care processes received between 1 January 2019 and 31 March 2020. Results: Of the 2,822,145 people with type 2 diabetes in the cohort, 16,460 (0.58%) were coded with remission in the 2018/19 NDA. After adjustment for age, sex, socioeconomic deprivation and ethnicity, people coded with remission were less likely to receive each care process than those without such coding irrespective of HbA1c measurements (relative risk (RR) of receiving all 8 care processes 0.70 (95% CI 0.69–0.72)). For the 339,235 people with evidence of remission, irrespective of diagnostic coding compared to those without such evidence, the RR for receiving all 8 care processes was 0.94 (95% CI 0.93–0.94). Conclusions: People coded with remission of type 2 diabetes were less likely to receive diabetes care processes than those without such coding. People with evidence of remission had only a slightly reduced likelihood of receiving care processes. Formal recognition of remission may affect the provision or uptake of care processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Late‐gadolinium enhancement magnetic resonance (LGE‐MRI) imaging is increasingly used in management of atrial fibrillation (AFib) patients. Here, we assess the usefulness of LGE‐MRI‐based fibrosis quantification to predict arrhythmia recurrence in patients undergoing cryoballoon ablation. Our secondary goal was to compare two widely used fibrosis quantification methods. Methods: In 102 AF patients undergoing LGE‐MRI and cryoballoon ablation (mean age 62 years; 64% male; 59% paroxysmal AFib), atrial fibrosis was quantified using the pixel intensity histogram (PIH) and image intensity ratio (IIR) methods. PIH segmentations were completed by a third‐party provider as part of the standard of care at our hospital; Image intensity ratio (IIR) segmentations of the same scans were carried out in our lab using a commercially available software package. Fibrosis burdens and spatial distributions for the two methods were compared. Patients were followed prospectively for recurrent arrhythmia following ablation. Results: Average PIH fibrosis was 15.6 ± 5.8% of the left atrial (LA) volume. Depending on threshold (IIRthr), the average IIR fibrosis (% of LA wall surface area) ranged from 5.0 ± 7.2% (IIRthr = 1.2) to 37.4 ± 10.9% (IIRthr = 0.97). An IIRthr of 1.03 demonstrated the greatest agreement between the methods, but spatial overlap of fibrotic areas delineated by the two methods was modest (Sorenson Dice coefficient: 0.49). Fourty‐two patients (41.2%) had recurrent arrhythmia. PIH fibrosis successfully predicted recurrence (HR 1.07; p =.02) over a follow‐up period of 362 ± 149 days; regardless of IIRthr, IIR fibrosis did not predict recurrence. Conclusions: PIH‐based volumetric assessment of atrial fibrosis was modestly predictive of arrhythmia recurrence following cryoballoon ablation in this cohort. IIR‐based fibrosis was not predictive of recurrence for any of the IIRthr values tested, and the overlap in designated areas of fibrosis between the PIH and IIR methods was modest. Caution must therefore be exercised when interpreting LA fibrosis from LGE‐MRI, since the values and spatial pattern are methodology‐dependent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Deep lobe parotid tumour is commonly removed with the covering superficial lobe of parotid gland. Total or subtotal parotidectomy leads to an increase in surgical morbidity. This study evaluated recurrence and function after selective deep lobe parotidectomy via retroauricular hairline (Roh's) incision for pleomorphic adenoma. Materials and methods: Twenty‐eight patients with deep lobe parotid pleomorphic adenomas underwent selective deep lobe parotidectomy with preservation of the superficial lobe and the facial lobe via Roh's incision. Each patient was evaluated with any complications, cosmetic and salivary functions and local recurrence. Results: Superficial lobe‐preserving surgery via Roh's incision was successfully applied to all patients without injury to the facial nerve and the Stensen's duct for a median operation time of 65 min. Facial nerve paralysis was found only temporarily in 9 (32%) patients, and other complications were minimal. None of the patients had postoperative Frey's syndrome. Salivary secretory function in the operated side was well preserved. No recurrence was found in the patients for a median follow‐up of 94 months. Conclusions: Selective deep lobe parotidectomy via Roh's incision is a reliable option of treatment for deep lobe parotid pleomorphic adenoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To assess the long‐term outcome of sialendoscopy‐assisted combined approach for parotid sialolithotomy with gland preservation. Patients and Methods: A retrospective study of patients treated with a combined sialendoscopic and open approach was conducted between 2011 and 2020. Demographic data of patients such as operative technique, stone size, stone location, complications, and symptom relief were collected. Patients were followed up via clinical examination and questionnaires. Results: Seventy‐four patients were included and underwent endoscopy‐assisted combined operations for the removal of 98 parotid stones. Of the 98 stones, 92(94%) stones were completely removed and 6(6%) were partially removed. At a mean follow‐up of 47.1 ± 35 months, 65 of 74 patients (88%) achieved long‐term success. Patients with stone incomplete removal were significantly more often to develop the recurrence of obstructive symptoms (p = 0.000) There were no cases of facial nerve injury or fistula formation. Gland function was preserved in 73 of 74 patients (99%). Conclusions: The combined approach for parotid stones is a safe and gland‐preserving alternative to parotidectomy. The techniques described here show high success rates and good long‐term results, and they avoided the need for gland resection in >95% of cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Early childhood caries (ECC) remains one of the most prevalent childhood diseases in Australia, disproportionately affecting disadvantaged populations. Aim: To investigate the ECC experience including risk factors, incidence of caries, pain and infection as well as relapse rates of caries and secondary dental general anaesthesia (GA). Design: A retrospective cohort study included dental records of children with ECC, aged <72 months at an Australian public dental hospital paediatric dentistry department from 2013 to 2015 (n = 102). Dental caries, pain, infection, referral patterns, demographic and caries risk factor data were recorded for 24 months. Descriptive statistics were used for patient characteristics and clinical data, and Kaplan–Meier curves and parametric exponential survival models for time‐to‐event series. Results: The study population demonstrated higher‐than‐national average dmft and disease progression at baseline. Major risk factors for the development of caries, pain and infection were daily consumption of sweetened beverages, poor oral hygiene, residing in lower socio‐economic areas, older age and being male. Rates of caries relapse and new referral for secondary treatment under general anaesthesia were relatively high. Conclusion: A high degree of ECC progression and recurrence in this population indicates a need for a more comprehensive approach to ECC addressing multilevel root causes and systemic risk factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Previous studies have reported inconsistent findings on the efficacy of platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) therapy in women with implantation failure. The objective of this review was to evaluate whether PRP administration could improve pregnancy outcomes in women with implantation failure undergoing in vitro fertilization. Methods: Electronic databases were searched for studies that explored the effects of PRP for patients with implantation failure. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Based on the available data, we performed subgroup analyses and sensitivity analyses. Results: Eight studies were included. PRP treatment improved pregnancy outcomes for all women compared with no treatment or placebo (clinical pregnancy rate: OR 2.24, 95% CI 1.41–3.54; live birth rate: OR 5.76, 95% CI 1.55–21.44; miscarriage rate: OR 0.18, 95% CI 0.05–0.63), especially in randomized controlled trials. No significant differences were detected in multiple pregnancy rates (OR 2.54, 95% CI 0.67–9.67). Furthermore, subgroup analysis based on the number of previous implantation failures showed that PRP treatment improved pregnancy outcomes in women with recurrent implantation failure (clinical pregnancy rate: OR 2.55, 95% CI 1.49–4.38; live birth rate: OR 5.07, 95% CI 1.15–22.34; miscarriage rate: OR 0.20, 95% CI 0.05–0.78). Conclusion: PRP administration could improve pregnancy outcomes in women with recurrent implantation failure. Due to the limited evidence available, the efficacy of PRP in women with recurrent implantation failure needs to be further verified in high‐quality studies with larger sample sizes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Failure to isolate ipsilateral pulmonary veins (PV) "en bloc" by wide‐area circumferential ablation (WACA) may necessitate ablation at the intervenous carina. It is unknown how this scenario impacts rates of atrial fibrillation (AF) recurrence. Methods: A standard random‐effect meta‐analysis of randomized or observational studies were performed, where the outcome of first‐time AF ablation was reported in patients with "en bloc" isolation of PVs by WACA as compared with those in whom ablation at the intervenous carina was needed after WACA to achieve complete isolation. Results: A total of five single‐center, observational studies (N = 1185) and one, multi‐center randomized trial (N = 234) were enrolled. PV isolation could be achieved by WACA "en bloc" in 902/1419 (63.6%) cases. The rest required additional ablation at one or both of the left and right intervenous carinas to achieve isolation. The follow‐up time after ablation ranged from 1 to 2 years in the included trials. The incidence of AF recurrence proved to be significantly lower in patients with successful "en bloc" isolation compared to those requiring carina ablation(s) to achieve complete bilateral PV isolation (MH‐OR 1.89, 95% CI 1.42–2.53, p <.01) Conclusion: This present meta‐analysis demonstrates a lower arrhythmia recurrence rate in patients with bilateral "en bloc" isolation, as compared to those who needed additional carina ablation for complete PVI. Therefore, it is imperative that every effort be made to isolate ipsilateral PVs "en bloc" during PVI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Adolescent endometriosis is a special type of endometriosis. Its diagnosis is often delayed. This study aimed to share the treatment experience of adolescent endometriosis and analyze the clinical manifestation, clinical stage, and risk factors of postoperative recurrence in China. Methods: Eighty‐nine cases of adolescent endometriosis over 7 years in a single institution were reviewed. Demographic, clinical outcome measures were collected. Result: The cumulative incidence rates of postoperative recurrence at years 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 were 13.2%, 15.09%, 16.98%, 20.75%, and 20.75%, respectively. The risk factors associated with postoperative recurrence were disease stage, number of lesions, and height. In multivariate analysis, the independent risk factors of postoperative recurrence were height (RR: 1.132, 95% CI: 1.018–1.260) and the number of pelvic lesions (three or more, RR: 4.202, 95% CI: 1.013–17.433). Conclusion: Taller patients and those who had multiple lesion sites (≥3) should receive more attention, because they have a higher possibility of relapse after surgery than their counterparts. This finding can guide the postoperative treatment of adolescent patients with endometrioma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Rumination and worry have been implicated in the onset, severity, maintenance and relapse risk of depression and anxiety disorders. Despite this, little research has examined individuals' personal experiences of these processes. This study investigates how individuals experience these processes, which will provide insight into these common features of mental disorders and inform the development of an online intervention specifically targeting rumination and worry. Design: An online qualitative survey was conducted to gain insight into people's personal definitions, experiences with and understandings of rumination and worry. Methods: Participants answered open- and close-ended questions about their personal understanding of rumination and worry, typical thought content, triggers, frequency, duration and coping strategies. Participant responses were coded into themes. Participants also completed self-report questionnaires of depression, anxiety and stress and repetitive negative thinking. Results: Two hundred and seven adults completed the online survey (76% female; mean age = 28.2 years, range = 17–71), 51% of whom reported previously experiencing depression and anxiety. All participants were familiar with the concept of worry, whereas 28% of participants indicated they had never heard of rumination. Participants reported most commonly ruminating and/or worrying about personal relationships, past mistakes, negative experiences and conversations/social interactions. The most commonly reported triggers for rumination and/or worry were social situations/ interpersonal interactions (25%) and negative events/experiences (24%). Distraction was the most common coping strategy (48%); however, 21% reported being unable to stop themselves from ruminating and/or worrying. Conclusions: The results provide a unique insight into the personal experiences and understandings of rumination and worry of potential end users of treatment programs targeting these processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: It has been observed that the fourth‐generation cryoballoon (CB4) ablation catheter increased the rate of acute real‐time recordings of pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) during the ablation for the treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF). The aim of this analysis was to compare the long‐term outcome results between patients treated with the CB4 and second‐generation cryoballoon (CB2). Methods: In total, 492 patients suffering from AF, underwent PVI ablation with either the CB2 or CB4 catheter within this examination of the 1STOP real‐world Italian project and were included in the analysis. Specifically, 246 consecutive patients treated by CB4 were compared to 246 propensity‐matched control patients who underwent PVI using CB2. Results: When comparing the patient cohorts treated with CB2 versus CB4, acute success rate (99.6 ± 4.7% vs. 99.7 ± 3.6%, p =.949) and peri‐procedural complications (3.7% vs.1.2%, p =.080) were similar in both groups, respectively. However, procedure time (100 vs.75 min, p <.001) and fluoroscopy duration (21 vs.17 min, p <.001) were all significantly lower in the CB4 treated patient cohort. At the 12‐month follow‐up, the freedom from AF recurrence after a 90‐day blanking period was significant higher in the CB4 as compared with the CB2 group (93.3% vs.81.3%, p <.001). Conclusions: In summary, usage of the CB4 ablation catheter increased the rate of acute PVI recording capability and resulted in a higher rate of long‐term PVI success, as demonstrated by the reduced rate of AF recurrence in comparison to the CB2 cohort at the 12‐month follow‐up period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pain is one of the main reasons to present to emergency departments (EDs). Opioids are indispensable for acute pain management but are associated with side effects, misuse, and dependence. The aim of this study was to test whether a single dose of intravenous (IV) acetaminophen (paracetamol) can reduce the use of morphine for pain relief and/or morphine‐related adverse events (AEs). Methods: ED patients >18 years with acute pain (i.e., Numeric Rating Scale [NRS] > 4) were screened for eligibility. Patients with analgesia in the past 6 h, chronic pain, or clinical instability were excluded. Patients were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to receive either morphine 0.1 mg/kg and 1 g acetaminophen IV or morphine 0.1 mg/kg and placebo IV. The intervention was double‐blinded. Additional morphine 0.05 mg/kg IV was administered every 15 minutes until pain relief (defined as NRS < 4) and whether the pain recurred. The primary outcome was the mean morphine dose for pain relief. Secondary outcomes were the total amount of morphine given, time to achieve pain relief, and AEs. Results: A total of 220 patients were randomized and 202 evaluated for the primary outcome. The mean morphine dose for pain relief was similar in both groups (acetaminophen 0.15 mg ± 0.07 mg/kg, placebo 0.16 ± 0.07 mg/kg). There were no differences in the total amount of morphine given (acetaminophen 0.19 ± 0.09 mg/kg, placebo 0.19 ± 0.1 mg/kg), the time to achieve pain relief (acetaminophen 30 min [95% CI 17–31 min], placebo 30 min [95% CI 30–35 min]), and the frequency of AEs (overall 27.4%). Time to pain recurrence did not differ significantly between the groups (hazard ratio 1.23 [0.76–1.98], p = 0.40). Conclusions: In ED patients, acetaminophen had no additional effect on pain control or morphine‐sparing effect at the time of first morphine administration. Titrated morphine with the algorithm used was highly effective, with 80% of all patients reporting pain relief within 60 min of starting therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Low‐voltage activity beyond pulmonary veins (PVs) may contribute to the failure of ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF) in the long term. We aimed to assess the presence of gaps (PVG) and residual potential (residual antral potential [RAP]) within the antral scar by means of an ultra‐high‐density mapping (UHDM) system. Methods: We studied consecutive patients from the CHARISMA registry who were undergoing AF ablation and had complete characterization of residual PV antral activity. The Lumipoint™ (Boston Scientific) map‐analysis tool was used sequentially on each PV component. The ablation endpoint was PV isolation (PVI) and electrical quiescence in the antral region. Results: Fifty‐eight cases of AF ablation were analyzed. A total of 86 PVGs in 34 (58.6%) patients and 44 RAPs in 34 patients (58.6%) were found. In 16 (27.6%) cases, we found at least one RAP in patients with complete absence of PV conduction. RAPs showed a lower mean voltage than PVG (0.3 ± 0.2 mV vs. 0.7 ± 0.5 mV, p <.0001), whereas the mean number of electrogram peaks was higher (8.4 ± 1.4 vs. 3.2 ± 1.5, p <.0001). The percentage of patients in whom RAPs were detected through Lumipoint™ was higher than through propagation map analysis (58.6% vs. 36.2%, p =.025). Acute procedural success was 100%, with all PVs successfully isolated and RAPs completely abolished in all study patients. During a mean follow‐up of 453 ± 133 days, 6 patients (10.3%) suffered an AF/AT recurrence. Conclusion: Local vulnerabilities in antral lesion sets were easily discernible by means of the UHDM system in both de novo and redo patients when no PV conduction was present. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The iCLAS ultra‐low temperature cryoablation (ULTC) system has recently been brought to the market. A combination of a newly exploited cryogen and interchangeable stylet enables flexible and continuous lesion creation in atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation. The use of an esophageal warming balloon is recommended when using the system to reduce the potential for collateral esophageal injury. Objective: To describe the initial clinical experience when using ULTC in the AF treatment without general anesthesia (GA). Methods: Consecutive patients undergoing AF ablation using ULTC under deep sedation without GA were enrolled. We assessed the procedural data focusing on "single‐shot isolation" defined as successful pulmonary vein (PV) isolation after the first application. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy was systematically performed the day after ablation. Results: A total of 27 AF patients (67% paroxysmal AF) were analyzed. Onehundred four out of 106 PVs (98.1%) were isolated solely using ULTC. The mean procedure time was 79 ± 30 min. The mean number of applications per PV was 2.6 ± 1.0. Single‐shot isolation was achieved in 57 PVs (54%) varying across PVs from left superior to inferior PVs (40%–64%). The single procedure 6‐month recurrence‐free rate was 84%. No major complication (cerebrovascular event, pericardial effusion/tamponade, esophageal damage on esophagogastroduodenoscopy) occurred. A single transient phrenic nerve palsy occurred during the right superior PV ablation, which had recovered by the 3‐month follow‐up appointment. Conclusions: AF ablation using the novel ULTC system seemed feasible without GA and enabled a >50% single‐shot isolation rate. The promising safety profile has to be confirmed in large‐scale studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Early recovery from alcohol use disorder (AUD) is commonly associated with high levels of negative affect, stress, and emotional vulnerability, which confer significant relapse risk. Emotion differentiation—the ability to distinguish between discrete emotions—has been shown to predict relapse after treatment for a drug use disorder, but this relationship has not been explored in individuals recovering from AUD. Methods: The current study used thrice daily random and up to thrice daily self‐initiated ecological momentary assessment surveys (N = 42, observations = 915) to examine whether 1) moments of high affective arousal are characterized by momentary differences in emotion differentiation among individuals in the first year of a current AUD recovery attempt, and 2) individuals' average emotion differentiation would predict subsequent alcohol use measured by the timeline follow‐back over a 3‐month follow‐up period. Results: Multilevel models showed that moments (Level 1) of higher‐than‐average negative affect (p < 0.001) and/or stress (p = 0.033) were characterized by less negative emotion differentiation, while moments of higher‐than‐average positive affect were characterized by greater positive emotion differentiation (p < 0.001). At the between‐person level (Level 2), participants with higher stress overall had lower negative emotion differentiation (p = 0.009). Linear regression showed that average negative, but not positive, emotion differentiation was inversely associated with percent drinking days over the subsequent 3‐month follow‐up period (p = 0.042). Neither form of average emotion differentiation was associated with drinking quantity. Conclusions: We found that for individuals in early AUD recovery, affective states are associated with acute shifts in the capacity for emotion differentiation. Further, we found that average negative emotion differentiation prospectively predicts subsequent alcohol use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rectus femoris (RF) injuries are common in sports requiring maximal acceleration and sprinting. The British Athletics Muscle Injury Classification (BAMIC) describes acute muscle injury based on the anatomical site of injury and has been associated with return to play in hamstring and calf muscle injury. The aim of this study was to describe and compare the time to return to full training (TRFT) and injury recurrence for BAMIC‐classified RF injuries sustained by elite track and field (T&F) athletes over a 9‐year period. All rectus femoris injuries sustained by elite T&F athletes on the British Athletics World Class Program between September 2010 and September 2019 that were investigated with an MRI within 7 days of acute onset anterior thigh pain were included. Injuries were graded from the MRI by a specialist musculoskeletal radiologist using the BAMIC, and TRFT and injury recurrence were determined by evaluation of the Electronic Medical Record. Athlete demographics and World Athletics event discipline were recorded. Specific injury details including mechanism, location of injury, and whether surgical or rehabilitation management was undertaken were recorded. There were 38 RF injuries in 27 athletes (24.7 ± 2.3 years; 10 male, 17 female). Average TRFT for rehabilitation managed cases was 20.4 ± 14.8 days. Grade 1 injuries had significantly shorter TRFT compared with grades 2 (p = 0.04) and 3 (p = 0.01). Intratendinous (c) and surgically managed RF injuries each had significantly longer TRFT compared with other injury classes (p < 0.001). Myofascial (a) injuries had reduced repeat injury rates compared with b or c classes (p = 0.048). Grade 3 injuries had an increased repeat injury rate compared with other grades (p = 0.02). There were 4 complete (4c) proximal free tendon injuries sustained during sprinting and all in female athletes. The average TRFT for RF injuries in elite T&F is similar to that previously identified in elite football and Australian Rules. Similar to previous research in hamstring and calf injury, RF injuries extending into the tendon (BAMIC class c) had delayed TRFT which may reflect the longer duration required for tendon healing and adaptation. Grade 3 injuries had in increased repeat injury rate compared with grades 1 and 2. The BAMIC diagnostic framework may provide useful information for clinicians managing rectus femoris injuries in T&F. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To systematically review the literature to evaluate the recurrence of disease of people in long‐term supportive periodontal care (SPC), previously treated for periodontitis, and determine the effect of different methods of managing recurrence. The review focused on stage IV periodontitis. Materials and methods: An electronic search was conducted (until May 2020) for prospective clinical trials. Tooth loss was the primary outcome. Results: Twenty‐four publications were retrieved to address recurrence of disease in long‐term SPC. Eight studies were included in the meta‐analyses for tooth loss, and three studies for disease progression/recurrence (clinical attachment level [CAL] loss ≥2 mm). For patients in SPC of 5–20 years, prevalence of losing more than one tooth was 9.6% (95% confidence interval [CI] 5%–14%), while experiencing more than one site of CAL loss ≥2 mm was 24.8% (95% CI 11%–38%). Six studies informed on the effect of different methods of managing recurrence, with no clear evidence of superiority between methods. No data was found specifically for stage IV periodontitis. Conclusions: A small proportion of patients with stage III/IV periodontitis will experience tooth loss in long‐term SPC (tendency for greater prevalence with time). Regular SPC appears to be important for reduction of tooth loss. No superior method to manage disease recurrence was found. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Atrial tachycardias (AT) in patients with congenital heart disease (CHD) are significantly contributing to morbidity and mortality. Aim of this study was to evaluate the long‐term course of CHD patients requiring repeat ablation procedures (RAP) of AT. Patients and Methods: All 144 patients with CHD who had undergone ablation of AT at our center between January 2003 and October 2018 were enrolled. Patients were classified according to the complexity of CHD: complex CHD (cCHD), moderate CHD (mCHD), and simple CHD (sCHD). Results: A total of 101 RAP were performed in 64 patients. One RAP was performed in n = 40, two in n = 13, three in n = 10, and five in n = 1. Acute success rate was 82% (83/101) and was not associated with the complexity of CHD (p = 1.0). Number of procedures was lower in patients with sCHD than in patients with mCHD and cCHD (sCHD 1.3 ± 0.6, mCHD 1.8 ± 1.0, and cCHD 1.8 ± 1.1, p =.04). RAP were most frequent in patients after Fontan palliation or Atrial switch procedure (2.0 ± 1.1 [n = 41] vs. 1.6 ± 0.9 all others, p =.016) and in patients with multiple unstable AT's (2.5 ± 1.1 [n = 11] vs. 1.7 ± 1.0, p =.008). Major complications occurred in 4/101 procedures. Complete follow‐up was available in 125 patients. Since last RAP 73% of the patients were in sinus/atrial rhythm and 34/125 patients (27%) with AT recurrence did not require re‐ablation with mean follow‐up of 52 ± 40 months. Conclusions: Recurrences after ablation of AT in CHD patients were frequent. After RAP promising long‐term results could be achieved. Data encourage repetitive ablation procedures in this patient population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is an effective treatment for youth with anxiety and related disorders, with a 59% remission rate at post‐treatment. Results of reviews and meta‐analyses indicate that treatment gains are maintained across long‐term follow‐up, at least in terms of symptom improvement. Less is known about relapse, defined as patients who initially achieve remission status but then experience a return of symptoms after a follow‐up period. Method: The current study used meta‐analysis to determine the overall rate of relapse in CBT for children and adolescents (age 18 years or younger) with anxiety and related disorders. Potential moderating factors of relapse rates, including demographic, methodological, and clinical/intervention characteristics, were also examined. Out of a pool of 78 abstracts, 13 full‐text articles were retained for meta‐analysis. An additional two articles were identified from other sources (total N = 535 patients). Results: Results showed an overall relapse rate of 10.5% (including comorbid autism spectrum disorder) and 8% (excluding comorbid autism spectrum disorder) across studies. Moderator analyses demonstrated that relapse rates were higher among younger and more racially diverse samples, as well as among patients with comorbid externalizing disorders and those taking psychiatric medications. There were no differences in relapse rates as a function of primary diagnosis. Conclusions: Taken together, the findings indicate that relapse rates in CBT for anxious youth are relatively low, suggesting that treatment development and refinement efforts should focus on improving treatment response and remission rates for this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to evaluate the features (occurrence, type, severity, risk factors and quality of life) associated with urinary incontinence in women. Urinary incontinence is a global issue. Many factors can lead to urinary incontinence, but some factors remain debatable. It is thought that the rate of urinary incontinence will decrease with the determination of risk factors. According to Abrams et al., urinary incontinence is three times more prevalent in women than in men. In a systematic review including 12 studies conducted by Seshan et al., it was concluded that the main risk factors for urinary incontinence are age, parity, body mass index, menopause, recurrent urinary tract infections, hysterectomy, miscarriage, fetal weight and comorbid conditions such as diabetes, chronic lung disease. Average life expectancy is increasing around the world. According to Milsom and Gyhagen with the increase in average life expectancy, it is predicted that the frequency of incontinence and the rate of women needing treatment will rise in the future and that health expenditures will increase consequently. A descriptive, cross‐sectional study was conducted from September to December 2020 using an online questionnaire. In total, 400 women were recruited. The online questionnaire contains questions to determine the socio‐demographic of women and urinary incontinence for risk factors in women and International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire‐Urinary Incontinence Short Form. Data were entered and analysed using SPSS. Chi‐square tests were used to assess associations between categorical variables. Statistically significant variables (p < 0.05 and p < 0.001) were then analysed by logistic regression. Occurrence of urinary incontinence was 39% (156/400). The top three types of urinary incontinence were found to be stress (38.5%), urgency (27%) and mixed (23.7%) incontinence. Frequency of urinary incontinence was once a week or less frequent in 54.5% of the women with urinary incontinence and that the severity of the urinary incontinence was mild in 70.5%. Risk factors for urinary incontinence included age, educational status, body mass index, history of macrosomic baby (birth weight > or =4 kg), consuming acidic beverages and spicy foods, episiotomy, type of birth, menopause, recurrent urinary tract infection, having a member of family with a history of urinary incontinence, and lack of physical activity. It was determined that factors increasing the risk for urinary incontinence the most are age and body mass index. Urinary incontinence is an important public health problem affecting women in the reproductive age, too. Highlights: Urinary incontinence is a global issue.Many factors can lead to urinary incontinence, but some factors remain debatable.Urinary incontinence is an important public health problem affecting women in the reproductive age, too.Average life expectancy is increasing around the world. Therefore, the number of women with incontinence problems is expected to increase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims Heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) individually cause significant morbidity and mortality. Their coexistence is associated with even worse outcomes, partly due to suboptimal heart failure therapy, especially underutilisation of beta-blockers. Our aim was to investigate outcomes in HFrEF patients with and without COPD, and the effects of mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs) on outcomes. Methods and results We studied the effect of MRA therapy in a post-hoc pooled analysis of 4397 HFrEF patients in the RALES and EMPHASIS-HF trials. The primary endpoint was the composite of heart failure hospitalisation or cardiovascular death. A total of 625 (14.2%) of the 4397 patients had COPD. Patients with COPD were older, more often male, and smokers, but less frequently treated with a beta-blocker. In patients with COPD, event rates (per 100 person-years) for the primary endpoint and for all-cause mortality were 25.2 (95% confidence interval 22.1-28.7) and 17.2 (14.9-19.9), respectively, compared with 19.9 (18.8-21.1) and 12.8 (12.0-13.7) in participants without COPD. The risks of all-cause hospitalisation and sudden death were also higher in patients with COPD. The benefit of MRA, compared with placebo, was consistent in patients with or without COPD for all outcomes, e.g. hazard ratio for the primary outcome 0.66 (0.50-0.85) for COPD and 0.65 (0.58-0.73) for no COPD (interaction p = 0.93). MRA-induced hyperkalaemia was less frequent in patients with COPD. Conclusions In RALES and EMPHASIS-HF, one-in-seven patients with HFrEF had coexisting COPD. HFrEF patients with COPD had worse outcomes than those without. The benefits of MRAs were consistent, regardless of COPD status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This longitudinal study was designed to evaluate the association between acute pre‐stroke stress and the severity stroke and its outcomes including mortality, recurrence, disability and functional dependency. Patients with first‐ever stroke (FES) were recruited from the Mashhad Stroke Incidence Study. Patients were asked about any acute severe pre‐stroke stress in the 2 weeks prior to index stroke. Disability and functional disability were defined using modified the Rankin Scale and Barthel Index, respectively. We used logistic and ordinal regression tests to assess the association between acute pre‐stroke stress and study outcomes. Among 624 patients with FES, 169 reported acute pre‐stroke stress. Patients with acute pre‐stroke stress were younger than those without stress (60.7 ± 14.4 vs. 66.2 ± 14.7; p < 0.001). The frequency of traditional vascular risk factors was not different in patients with and without acute pre‐stroke stress. We did not find any association between acute pre‐stroke stress and stroke outcomes. Although acute stress was common in our cohort, our results did not support an association between acute pre‐stroke stress and the severity of stroke at admission and long‐term stroke outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to explore the relationship between stressful life events, coping styles, and schizophrenia relapse. The sample for this study included 248 patients with schizophrenia from a psychiatric outpatient clinic in Hunan Province, China. Stressful life events, occurrence of schizophrenia relapse, and coping style were assessed by the Scale for the Social Readjustment Rating, Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale, and Simplified Coping Style Questionnaire, respectively. Spearman correlation analysis and binary logistic regression analysis were adopted to explore the relationships among coping styles, schizophrenia relapse, and stressful life events. Stressful life events and negative coping exhibited significant positive association with schizophrenia relapse, while positive coping exhibited a significant negative association with schizophrenia relapse. Stressful life events and positive coping exerted significant effects on schizophrenia relapse, while negative coping did not. We also found that both positive coping and negative coping have moderating effects on the relationship between stressful life events and schizophrenia relapse, but the relationship is weak. The study highlighted the importance of interventions designed to reduce stressful life events, promote positive coping, and address negative coping in patients with schizophrenia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Seizures are one of the most common neurological reasons for emergency department (ED) visits. The benefit of ED‐initiated, short‐course outpatient benzodiazepine (BZD) treatment to prevent early recurrent seizure is unknown. This study assesses the risk of early seizure recurrence in patients who were or were not started with outpatient BZD in the ED. Methods: This was a multicenter retrospective study conducted in eight French EDs between January 1 and December 31, 2019. All patients admitted for seizure were retrospectively screened and those discharged home from the ED were included. Patients with a history of chronic alcohol intoxication or chronic BZD therapy were excluded. Baseline characteristics, type of seizure, and 30‐day outcome were retrospectively collected from the electronic health records. The primary endpoint was a return visit for seizure recurrence within 30 days. Independent factors associated with a seizure recurrence were identified using a multivariable binary logistic regression. Results: A total of 2,218 patients were included and 1,820 were analyzed. The median age was 39 years and 60% were men. Among them 82% of patients had a generalized tonic–clonic seizure and 47% of seizures were idiopathic. BZD treatment was started in 773 (42%) patients. A total of 154 (8%) patients had an early recurrence at 30 days: 68 (9%) in patients who were treated with BZD versus 86 (8%) in patients who were not (odds ratio [OR] = 1.07, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.71 to 1.43). In multivariable analysis, two factors were independently associated with the primary endpoint: chronic epileptic treatment (adjusted OR = 2.58, 95% CI = 1.55 to 4.37) and having had a focal seizure (adjusted OR = 2.16, 95% CI = 1.56 to 4.37). Conclusion: BZD therapy was started in 42% of patients who were discharged home after ED visit for a seizure. This treatment was not an independent factor associated with the risk of return visit for seizure recurrence at 30 days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: A recent study found that homeless individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD) had a lower risk of relapse on extended‐release naltrexone (XR‐NTX) versus buprenorphine–naloxone (BUP‐NX), whereas non‐homeless individuals had a lower risk of relapse on BUP‐NX. This secondary study examined differences in mediation pathways to medication effect between homeless and non‐homeless participants. Design Secondary analysis of an open‐label randomized controlled, 24‐week comparative effectiveness trial, 2014–17. Setting: Eight community addiction treatment programs in the United States. Participants: English‐speaking adults with DSM‐5 OUD, recruited during inpatient admission (n = 570). Intervention(s): Randomization to monthly injection of XR‐NTX or daily sublingual BUP‐NX. Measurements(s): Mediation analysis estimated the direct effect of XR‐NTX versus BUP‐NX on relapse and indirect effect through mediators of medication adherence, use of illicit opioids, depressive symptoms and pain, separately by homeless status. Findings For the homeless subgroup, the protective indirect path contributed a 3.4 percentage point reduced risk of relapse [95% confidence interval (CI) = −12.0, 5.3] comparing XR‐NTX to BUP‐NX (explaining 21% of the total effect). For the non‐homeless subgroup, the indirect path contributed a 9.4 percentage point increased risk of relapse (95% CI = 3.1, 15.7) comparing XR‐NTX to BUP‐NX (explaining 57% of the total effect). Conclusions: A novel approach to mediation analysis shows that much of the difference in medication effectiveness (extended‐release naltrexone versus buprenorphine–naloxone) on opioid relapse among non‐homeless adults with opioid use disorder appears to be explained by mediators of adherence, illicit opioid use, depressive symptoms and pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Adjuvant chemotherapy has been shown to improve survival in patients with completely resected early-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This study evaluated real-world relapse rates and healthcare resource utilization in patients with stage II-IIIB NSCLC receiving adjuvant therapy in a community oncology setting after complete resection. Patients and Methods: The study included patients with stage II-IIIB NSCLC and complete resection receiving any adjuvant therapy during 06/2008-04/2017 at US Oncology Network clinics, with follow-up through 04/2019. Primary endpoints were rate of relapse, time to relapse (TTR), disease-free survival (DFS), overall survival (OS), and monthly emergency department (ED) visits and hospitalizations before and after relapse. Results: The study identified 456 patients; median age was 66 years, 50% were male. In patients with relapse (45.2%), median follow-up was 31.7 months and median TTR was 13.7 months. Median DFS in the overall population was 42.9 months. Median OS was 82.4 months in the overall population and shorter in patients with relapse than without relapse (41.6 months vs. not reached, p < 0.0001). Patients with relapse had significantly more monthly ED visits (mean [SD] 0.10 [0.24] vs. 0.03 [0.08], p < 0.0001) and hospitalizations (mean [SD] 0.20 [0.43] vs. 0.05 [0.10], p < 0.0001) following relapse than before relapse. Conclusions: Patients with stage II-IIIB NSCLC treated with adjuvant therapy after complete resection had high relapse rates, reduced survival, and significantly increased healthcare resource use when relapse occurred. New therapeutic options to reduce relapse rates in patients with early-stage NSCLC could reduce healthcare utilization and costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To compare the efficacy of photobiomodulation to that of topical clobetasol 0.05% in patients with symptomatic oral lichen planus (OLP). Subjects: Thirty‐four patients with symptomatic OLP were randomly allocated into two groups: (a) the Control group (n = 17), application of topical clobetasol propionate 0.05% three times a day for 30 consecutive days with laser placebo applied twice a week to mask the treatment, and (b) the photobiomodulation group (n = 17), laser application twice a week, totalling 8 sessions, and gel placebo for 30 consecutive days to mask the treatment. Evaluations were performed once a week during treatment and 30, 60 and 90 days after treatment. The following parameters were evaluated: pain, clinical scores, clinical resolution and recurrence rate. Results: Photobiomodulation and propionate clobetasol 0.05% were able to significantly decrease pain in oral lichen planus patients and improve clinical scores during treatment and follow‐up. Both the Control and photobiomodulation groups presented similar clinical resolution and recurrence rates. Most importantly, no difference was observed between treatments during treatment and follow‐up. Conclusions: These findings indicate that photobiomodulation twice a week is as effective as corticoid therapy in treating oral lichen planus. Moreover, photobiomodulation is a safe and non‐invasive therapy with the remarkable advantage of no adverse effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Gastrointestinal (GI) problems are common in eating disorders, but it is unclear whether these problems predate the onset of disordered eating. Recurrent abdominal pain (RAP) is the most prevalent GI problem of childhood, and this study aimed to explore longitudinal associations between persistent RAP (at ages 7 and 9) and fasting for weight control at 16. Method: The Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC) is a UK population cohort of children. Childhood RAP was reported by mothers and defined as RAP 5+ (5 pain episodes in the past year) in our primary analysis, and RAP 3+ (3 pain episodes) in our sensitivity analysis. Fasting for weight control was reported by adolescents at 16. We used logistic regression models to examine associations, with adjustments for potential confounders. Results: After adjustments, we found no association between childhood RAP 5+ and adolescent fasting for weight control at 16 (OR 1.30 (95% Confidence Intervals [CI] 0.87, 1.94) p =.197). However, we did find an association between RAP 3+ and later fasting, in the fully adjusted model (OR 1.50 [95% CI 1.16, 1.94] p =.002), and after excluding those with pre‐existing anxiety (OR 1.52 [95% CI 1.17, 1.97] p =.002). Discussion: Our findings suggest a possible independent contribution of RAP to later risk of fasting for weight control, and RAP should be enquired about in the assessment of eating disorders. However, frequency of childhood abdominal pain (as captured by ALSPAC) may be less important to long‐term outcomes than functional impairment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study assessed the long‐term symptom relapse rates among older adults previously treated with cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) for anxiety and/or depression during COVID‐19. Methods: Participants were 37 older adults (M = 75 years, SD = 5; 65% female) previously treated with CBT for anxiety and/or unipolar depression who were re‐assessed an average of 5.6 years later, during the first Australian COVID‐19 lockdown. Results: On average, there was no significant group‐level change in anxiety, depression or quality of life. When assessing change in symptoms based on clinical cut‐off points on self‐report measures, results suggest only 17%‐22% showed a relapse of symptoms by the COVID‐19 pandemic. Conclusions: Findings suggest that CBT may be protective in coping with life stressors many years after treatment ends. However, results warrant replication to attribute continued symptom improvement to CBT given the lack of control group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Many people with new‐onset focal epilepsy initially seek evaluation in emergency departments (EDs), and treatment decisions in EDs can influence likelihood of seizure recurrence. Using data collected for the Human Epilepsy Project (HEP), we assessed the effect of clinical seizure characteristics on ED clinical management. Methods: There were 447 participants with new‐onset focal epilepsy seen within 4 months of treatment initiation who were eligible and enrolled in HEP. Seizure calendars and medical records were collected. Based on clinical descriptions, seizures were categorized by semiology according to International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) classifications as either focal nonmotor or focal motor seizures. Results: Overall, 279 of 447(62%) of participants had presented to an ED prior to or at time of epilepsy diagnosis. A total of 132 of 246 (53%) with initial nonmotor seizures presented to an ED. Of these, eight (6%) presented with a first‐lifetime nonmotor seizure. The other 124 (94%) presented after multiple seizures: seven (5%) with multiple nonmotor seizures and 117 (89%) with a first‐lifetime motor seizure after having prior nonmotor seizures. A total of 147 of 201 (73%) participants with initial motor seizures presented to an ED. Of these, 134 (92%) presented with a first‐lifetime motor seizure and 13 (9%) with multiple motor seizures. There was no difference in the likelihood of antiseizure medication initiation between participants who had multiple prior nonmotor seizures followed by a motor seizure (thereby fulfilling the criterion for an epilepsy diagnosis) versus those presenting with a single lifetime motor seizure (39% vs. 43%). There was no difference in recognition of seizures as the presenting complaint (85% vs. 87%) or whether the participant was admitted or referred to a neurologist (87% vs. 79%). Conclusions: This study contributes to evidence of underrecognition of nonmotor focal seizure semiologies in ED settings, which can support large‐scale interventions aimed at improving recognition, specialist consultation, and treatment in ED settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the particular mechanisms by which vulnerability and capability factors influence cognitive reactivity (CR) can contribute to an enhanced capacity to adequately react to depression. However, few studies have explored the CR model. The main aim of the present study was to develop a model that specifies the predictive effects of CR for depression among individuals at high risk for first‐episode and recurrent depression. A national cross‐sectional, online study using convenience sampling was conducted among 587 vulnerable healthy individuals and 224 depressed patients in China. A battery of indices, including measures of CR, social support, resilience, self‐compassion, life events, neuroticism, sleep condition, and negative emotion, were collected. A structural equation model was applied to analyse the data. The final first‐episode and recurrent depressive symptoms of the CR models showed good model fit. According to the models, 45%–52% of the variance in depressive symptom was predicted by CR. Social support, self‐compassion, resilience, and positive life events directly influenced CR, with β values ranging from −0.18 to −0.24 (P < 0.01). Neuroticism, negative emotion, poor sleep conditions, and negative life events also directly and positively influenced CR (P < 0.01). The relationship between these negative or positive contributing factors and depression was also indirectly influenced by CR (P < 0.01). Our findings demonstrate the role of CR in the prevention and treatment of depression. The first‐episode and recurrent depressive symptoms of the CR models considering both vulnerabilities and capabilities of CR in the psychopathology of depression provide a theoretical basis for interventions that reduce CR in high‐risk populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationale, aims and objectives: An integrated care program for heart failure (HF) was developed in the Basque Country in 2013. The objective of this research was to evaluate its effectiveness through the number of hospital admissions in three integrated healthcare organizations (IHOs), taking into account the longitudinal nature of the disease and the intensity of the implementation. Methods: A retrospective observational study was carried out, based on data entered in administrative and clinical databases between 2014 and 2018 for a total population of 230 000. In addition to conventional statistical analyses, Andersen‐Gill models for recurrent events were used, incorporating dynamic variables that allowed assessment of the intervention's intensity before each hospitalization. Results: A total of 6768 patients were analysed. Age (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.016; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.011‐1.022), the Charlson index (HR = 1.067, 95% CI 1.047‐1.087), and the number of previous hospitalizations (HR = 1.632, 95% CI 1.557‐1.712) were risk factors for readmission. Differences between IHOs were also statistically significant. Greater intervention intensity was associated with a lower hospitalization rate (HR = 0.995, 95% CI 0.990‐1.000). As indicated by the interaction between intervention intensity and IHO, differences between IHOs disappeared when intensity rose. No inequities in hospitalization were found as a function of deprivation index or sex. Nonetheless, inequity in the implementation of the program by sex was clear, women with HF receiving less intense intervention than men with the same level of comorbidity and age. Conclusions: The extent of program implementation measured by intervention intensity is a main driver of the effectiveness of an educational and monitoring program for HF. The evaluation of HF program effectiveness on readmissions must take into account the entire natural history of the disease. Implementation intensity explains differences between IHOs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Thymoma‐associated myasthenia gravis (TAMG) is one of the subtypes of myasthenia gravis with autoantibodies against the acetylcholine receptor (AChR‐Ab). We analyzed the clinical features of our cohort of TAMG patients and the changes in AChR‐Ab titer before and after thymectomy in order to identify factors predicting thymoma relapses. Methods: We retrospectively assessed: age of MG onset, MG clinical status according to MGFA (Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America), epoch of thymectomy, post‐thymectomy status, oncological features and surgical approach. AChR‐Ab dosages were measured both before and after thymectomy. Linear regression models were applied to identify clinical determinants of AChR‐Ab titers and the Cox regression model was fitted to estimate the factors associated with the risk of thymoma recurrence. Results: The study sample included 239 MG patients, 27 of whom experienced one or more recurrences (median follow‐up time: 4.8 years). The AChR‐Ab titers decreased after first thymectomy (P < 0.001); the decrease was more pronounced in female patients (P = 0.05), in patients diagnosed with MG at an older age (P = 0.003), and in those who had lower MG stage before surgery (P = 0.02) or higher Masaoka‐Koga stage (P = 0.005). The risk of relapse was closely linked with the age of the patient, the Masaoka‐Koga stage and the surgical approach. Conclusions: Presurgery levels of AChR‐Ab or their change after surgery were not associated with thymoma recurrence. The reduction of AChR‐Ab titers after thymectomy confirms an immunological role of thymoma in the pathogenesis of MG. Key points: Significant findings of the study: Young MG patients with an advanced Masaoka staging score of the primary tumor who underwent thymectomy with approaches different from sternotomy and VATS should be monitored for high risk of recurrence.What this study adds: No other study has ever investigated the changes in AChR‐Ab titers before and after thymectomy in a large cohort of TAMG patients. The reduction of AChR‐Ab titers after thymectomy suggests an immunological role of thymoma in the pathogenesis of MG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]