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Simple Summary: Blood clots are formed when blood vessels are injured. They help stop bleeding and heal wounds, but can also cause serious problems if they block blood flow or break off and travel to other organs. This study investigates how blood clots differ in people with cancer compared to healthy or non-cancerous individuals. This study found that cancer patients have higher levels of histones in their blood, which make their clots stiffer and resistant to lysis. Further, clots formed in cancer patients have higher viscoelastic properties, and hence are harder to break down. These findings suggest that cancer patients have abnormal clotting properties that may increase their risk of developing thrombosis, and evaluating these properties can be helpful in detecting cancer. Background: Blood viscoelasticity and plasma protein levels can play an important role in the diagnosis and prognosis of cancer. However, the role of histones and DNA in modulating blood clot properties remains to be investigated. This study investigates the differences in blood viscoelasticity and plasma protein levels among cancer patients, individuals with other diseases, and healthy individuals. Methods: Blood samples were collected from 101 participants, including 45 cancer patients, 22 healthy individuals, and 34 individuals with other diseases. Rheological properties of clots formed in vitro by reconstituted elements of fibrinogen or plasma were analyzed with an Anton Paar Rheometer, USA. Plasma protein levels of D-dimer, TPA, EPCR, fibrinogen, and histone H3 were measured through ELISA. Blood clots were formed with or without DNA and histones (H3) by adding thrombin and calcium to plasma samples, and were evaluated for viscoelasticity, permeability, and degradation. Results: Cancer patients show higher blood viscoelasticity and plasma D-dimer levels compared to healthy individuals and individuals with other diseases. Our in vitro analysis showed that the addition of histone to the plasma results in a significant decrease in viscoelasticity and mean fiber thickness of the clot formed thereafter. In parallel studies, using plasma from patients, DNA and histones were detected in fibrin clots and were associated with less degradation by t-PA. Moreover, our results show that the presence of DNA and histones not only increases clots' permeability, but also makes them more prone to degradation. Conclusions: Plasma histones and DNA affect the structure of the clot formed and induce defective fibrinolysis. Moreover, the increased viscoelastic properties of plasma from cancer patients can be used as potential biomarkers in cancer prognosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Comparative evaluation of ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectroscopy and Congo red card-based test in the diagnosis of preeclampsia. Materials and methods: In this case–control study, UV–Vis spectroscopy and Congo red card test were done using mid-stream clean catch urine samples collected from 98 cases and 98 controls. The results obtained were used to calculate the specificity and sensitivity of each test. Results: Out of 98 cases, 76 showed increased absorbance in UV–Vis spectroscopy while 69 showed Congo red positivity. Thus, the ultraviolet (UV)-absorbance method was found to be more sensitive (77.53) and specific (80.61) compared to the Congo red paper-based test (sensitivity, 70.40; specificity, 64.28) in the detection of the misfolded proteins present in the urine samples of the preeclamptic patients. Conclusion: The UV–Vis absorption spectroscopy is a renowned yet innovative technique in the diagnosis of preeclampsia. It is more sensitive and specific to the existing Congo red paper-based test. Clinical significance: Several studies show that urine of preeclampsia patients shows the presence of misfolded proteins which are present about 2 weeks before the onset of symptoms, that is, clinical diagnosis. This creates scope for early detection and diagnosis of preeclampsia. In this study, we establish the role of spectroscopy as a novel test in diagnosing misfolded proteins in preeclamptic patients and compare its diagnostic performance to the highly acclaimed Congo red card test. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evidence indicates that the use of sedative–hypnotics, including benzodiazepines and z-drugs, is linked to an increased risk of falls and fractures. Nonetheless, the potential exacerbation of this risk by orexin receptor antagonists, which are novel therapeutic agents for treating insomnia, remains uncertain despite their escalating prevalence in clinical practice. We systematically searched four electronic databases from inception to April 17, 2024. In addition, we performed a quality assessment; calculated pooled odds ratios (ORs) to assess the relationship between the use of orexin receptor antagonists and the occurrence of falls or fractures; evaluated heterogeneity across the included studies; and conducted sensitivity analyses. The meta-analysis encompassed eight papers, comprising a total of 46,636 subjects. These papers included 5 case-control studies and 3 randomized controlled trials (RCTs), collectively encompassing ten studies. Analysis of the included case-control studies (pooled adjusted OR = 0.75, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.00–1.50, I2 = 66.2%, k = 3) and RCTs (OR = 0.68, 95% CI = 0.31–1.50, I2 = 45.9%, k = 5) indicated that the use of orexin receptor antagonists did not elevate the risk of falls. Similarly, analysis of the included case-control studies revealed no significant increase in the risk of fractures associated with the use of orexin receptor antagonists (pooled adjusted OR = 1.01, 95% CI = 0.82–1.20, I2 = 40.1%, k = 2). This meta-analysis suggests that the use of orexin receptor antagonists for treating insomnia does not escalate the risk of falls or fractures, although the data for lemborexant and daridorexant are limited. • The utilization of orexin receptor antagonists did not heighten the risk of falls. • The use of suvorexant did not elevate the risk of falls. • The use of orexin receptor antagonists did not increase the risk of fractures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Cognitive decline and dementia are major causes of disability. Research has suggested a relationship between dietary intake and memory problems in individuals. This study aims to examine the dietary histories of participants with newly diagnosed memory problems. Design/methodology/approach: A total of 285 subjects (129 cases and 156 controls) were included in this retrospective case−control study. This paper used a food frequency questionnaire to determine the intake of dietary food groups in the previous year and a general questionnaire to assess food habits. The strength of the association between dietary history and memory problems was assessed using logistic regression and Pearson's tests. Findings: In this study, 73% of participants had a lower middle income and consumed less than the recommended number of meats, fruits and vegetables (1.2, 1.8 and 0.99 units/day, respectively). Participants with memory problems were more likely to take supplements than those without (P = 0.01). There was no significant difference in energy intake between the case and control groups (1634 Kcal vs 1656 Kcal). The results of the logistic regression showed that consuming any of the food groups in the previous nine months was not associated with memory problems. However, the Pearson test showed that an increase in the consumption of high-quality protein and vegetables had a slightly nonsignificant relationship with a decrease in the severity of memory disorder. Originality/value: It is safe to suggest consuming adequate amounts of high-quality protein and affordable protein from sources such as dairy products, meats and vegetables. Research is insufficient to recommend the use of dietary supplements as a means of preventing memory disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Globally, HCC presents a significant health burden, characterized by high incidence and mortality rates. Epidemiological studies have increasingly suggested a link between dietary patterns and the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), yet consensus on this relationship remains elusive. Objective: This study aims to synthesize existing literature and provide a comprehensive analysis of the association between dietary patterns and HCC risk through meta-analytical methods. Methods: A systematic search of PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library databases was conducted to identify studies examining common dietary patterns in relation to HCC, published up to August 2023. Study quality was rigorously evaluated using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. We employed a random effects model to synthesize effect sizes, calculating hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results: We identified 13 papers, of these 10 investigating a priori dietary patterns(index-based dietary patterns) and 3 focusing on a posterior dietary patterns (data-driven dietary patterns). Analysis of a priori dietary patterns revealed that higher scores in the Healthy Eating Index (HEI) & alternative HEI (HR = 0.67, 95% CI: 0.54–0.85), Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) (HR = 0.77, 95% CI: 0.66–0.91), and the Mediterranean diet (HR = 0.65, 95% CI: 0.56–0.75) were associated with a reduced risk of HCC. Conversely, pro-inflammatory dietary patterns were linked with an increased risk (HR = 2.21, 95% CI: 1.58–3.09). In a posterior dietary patterns, a vegetable-based diet was negatively correlated with HCC risk (HR = 0.63, 95% CI: 0.49–0.81). Conclusion: This meta-analysis underscores a significant association between dietary patterns and the risk of HCC. Adherence to healthy dietary patterns characterized by high in vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and low in red and processed meats may confer a protective effect against HCC, whereas inflammatory diets appear to elevate risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Some largely inconsistent associations between parental occupational dust exposure and childhood cancer have been reported, with maternal exposures inadequately studied. The authors examined whether maternal or paternal occupational exposure to animal, wood, textile, or paper dust around a child's birth was associated with an increased risk of childhood cancer, both overall and by type (leukemias, lymphomas, central nervous system tumors, and other cancers). Methods: In this nationwide, register‐based, case‐control study, children who were diagnosed with cancer from 1960 to 2015 were compared with up to 25 matched controls regarding maternal and paternal occupational dust exposure (9653 cases in maternal analyses and 12,521 cases in paternal analyses). Exposures were assessed using a job‐exposure matrix and occupational information from census and register data. By using conditional logistic regression models, adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated. Results: Neither maternal nor paternal occupational exposure to animal, wood, textile, or paper dust was associated with childhood cancer overall, leukemias, or central nervous system tumors. Maternal, but not paternal, wood dust exposure was associated with an increased risk of lymphoma (OR, 1.42; 95% CI, 1.10‐1.84), particularly non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (OR, 2.03; 95% CI, 1.21‐3.40). Conclusions: The current study did not confirm the associations reported previously but is the first to suggest a link between maternal occupational exposure to wood dust around pregnancy and lymphoma in the offspring. This large study does not confirm associations reported previously for leukemia and central nervous system tumors but is the first to suggest a link between maternal occupational exposure to wood dust around pregnancy and lymphoma in the offspring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To report minimum two-year patient-reported outcome (PRO) scores, survivorship, and secondary surgeries, in patients aged ≥ 40 years who underwent primary hip arthroscopy with labral reconstruction compared to a propensity-matched primary labral repair group. Methods: Data were prospectively collected and retrospectively reviewed for patients who underwent a primary hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement syndrome from January 2014 to June 2018. Patients aged ≥ 40 years who underwent a labral reconstruction or a labral repair and had preoperative and minimum two-year PROs for the modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS), Non-arthritic Hip Score (NAHS), and visual analog scale (VAS) for pain were included. Patients with prior ipsilateral hip conditions and surgery, Tonnis grade > 1, hip dysplasia, or worker's compensation status were excluded. Patients in the reconstruction group were propensity-matched 1:2 to patients in the repair group based on age, sex, and body mass index. Secondary surgeries and the achievement of the minimal clinically importance difference (MCID), patient acceptable symptomatic state (PASS), and maximum outcome improvement (MOI) were recorded. Results: Fifty-three and 106 hips were included in the labral reconstruction and repair groups, respectively. The average follow-up time was 37.6 months. The average age for the reconstruction and repair groups were 48.01 ± 5.4 years and 48.61 ± 6.0 years, respectively. Both groups achieved significant improvements in all PROs at minimum two-years with similar achievements of MCID, PASS, and MOI. Both groups showed comparable secondary surgeries rates. Conclusions: Patients aged 40 years and older who received primary labral repair and primary labral reconstruction, achieved similar significant improvements in all PROs, VAS pain, and patient satisfaction at minimum two-year follow-up, with comparable rates of secondary surgeries and achieving MCID, PASS, and MOI. Based on these findings, labral repair remains the gold standard treatment for viable labrum in this population group, while reconstruction is a useful alternative for irreparable labrum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Most U.S. K-12 schools have adopted safety tactics and policies like arming teachers and installing metal detectors, to address intentional school gun violence. However, there is minimal research on their effectiveness. Furthermore, sociodemographic factors may influence their implementation. Controlled studies are necessary to investigate their impact on gun violence and related disciplinary outcomes. Objective: The paper outlines the protocol for a case-control study examining gun violence prevention policies in U.S. K-12 schools. The study aims to investigate if there is an association between the total number and type of specific safety tactics and policies and the occurrence of intentional shootings in K-12 public schools, student disciplinary outcomes, and if urbanicity, economic, and racial factors modify these associations. Methods: We will create a nationally representative dataset for this study and ascertain a full census of case schools (schools that experienced intentional gunfire on the campus during school hours since 2015) through national school shooting databases. Matched control schools will be randomly selected from U.S. Department of Education's national database of all public schools. We will analyze 27 school safety strategies organized into seven key exposure groupings. Results: Supported by the National Institutes for Child Health and Development (R01HD108027-01) and having received Institutional Review Board approval, our study is currently in the data collection phase. Our analytical plan will determine the association between the number and type of school safety tactics and policies with the occurrence of intentional shootings and suspensions and expulsions in a national sample of approximately 650 K-12 public schools. Additional analyses will investigate the effect modification of specific covariates. Conclusion: As the first national, controlled study, its results will provide novel and needed data on the effectiveness of school safety tactics and policies in preventing intentional shootings at K-12 public schools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a degenerative illness of the central nervous system that is irreversible and is characterized by gradual behavioral impairment and cognitive dysfunction. Researches on exosomes in AD have gradually gained the attention of scholars in recent years. However, the literatures in this research area do not yet have a comprehensive visualization analysis. The aim of this work is to use bibliometrics to identify the knowledge constructs and investigate the research frontiers and hotspots related to exosomes in AD. Methods: From January 2003 until June 2023, we searched the Web of Science Core Collection for literature on exosomes in AD. We found 585 papers total. The bibliometric study was completed using VOSviewer, the R package "bibliometrix," and CiteSpace. The analysis covered nations, institutions, authors, journals, and keywords. Results: Following 2019, the articles on exosomes in AD increased significantly year by year. The vast majority of publications came from China and the US. The University of California System, the National Institutes of Health, and the NIH National Institute on Aging in the US were the primary research institutions. Goetzl Edward J. was frequently co-cited, while Kapogiannis Dimitrios was the most prolific author in this discipline with the greatest number of articles. Lee Mijung et al. have been prominent in the last two years in exosomes in AD. The Journal of Alzheimer's Disease was the most widely read publication, and Alzheimers & Dementia had the highest impact factor. The Journal of Biological Chemistry, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, and Journal of Alzheimer's Disease were the three journals with more than 1,000 citations. The primary emphasis of this field was Alzheimer's disease, exosomes, and extracellular vesicles; since 2017, the number of phrases pertaining to the role of exosomes in AD pathogenesis has increased annually. "Identification of preclinical Alzheimer's disease by a profile of pathogenic proteins in neurally derived blood exosomes: a case-control study" was the reference with the greatest citing power, indicating the future steered direction in this field. Conclusion: Using bibliometrics, we have compiled the research progress and tendencies on exosomes in Alzheimer's disease for the first time. This helps determine the objectives and paths for future study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trabeculectomy is the main surgical treatment for glaucoma, but scar formation during wound healing may lead to surgical failure. In this study, we evaluated the efficacy of anti‐vascular endothelial growth factor (anti‐VEGF) and mitomycin C (MMC) on wound healing after glaucoma surgery. We have been looking for Pubmed, Embase and other databases. The last time we looked at an electronic database was August 2023. A case control study was conducted to compare the use of anti‐VEGF and mitomycin C for the treatment of glaucoma. We used the Cochrane standard methodology for collecting and analysing the data. Based on the criteria of inclusion, we have determined 369 related papers and selected seven eligible trials for data analysis. Three hundred and twenty‐six cases were treated with trabeculectomy, of which 166 were injected with anti‐VEGF and 160 were given MMC for trabeculectomy. In six trials, anti‐VEGF and MMC were not found to have any statistical significance on postoperative wound leakage after surgery (OR, 1.55; 95% CI, 0.71, 3.35 p = 0.27). The three trials showed that anti‐VEGF and MMC did not differ in terms of reducing postoperative wound hypotony after surgery (OR, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.20, 3.11 p = 0.73). Five trials demonstrated that anti‐VEGF and MMC were not associated with a lower incidence of shallow anterior chamber (OR, 1.17; 95% CI, 0.5, 2.76 p = 0.71). There is no significant difference in the effect of anti‐VEGF and MMC on wound healing after glaucoma surgery. A multicentre randomized controlled trial with a larger sample size is needed to confirm this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: The purpose of the present review was to conduct a COnsensus‐based Standards for the selection of health Measurement Instruments (COSMIN)-based analysis of the physical performance tests in patients with total hip arthroplasty (THA). Method: Databases were searched on February 2021 in "PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science" literature databases. The "COSMIN tool" was chosen to determine the quality and potential bias of the enclosed papers. "Narrative synthesis" was conducted due to the heterogenous data of the articles. Results: Twelve publications were enrolled in the review. Seven studies analyzed "intra-rater reliability," seven study "validity," six study "measurement error," one study "inter-rater reliability," and one study presented "responsiveness analysis." Conclusion: This review proved the psychometric properties of performances tests in THA, regarding COSMIN guidelines. The analysis result of studies yielded a "good" or "fair" quality design. Most of the studies (7) focused on gait-based test. Further studies should focus on "inter-rater reliability, responsiveness, and floor-ceiling effect". [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Impaired discourse production is commonly reported for individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI). Discourse deficits can negatively impact community integration, return to employment and quality of life. COVID‐19 restrictions have reduced in‐person assessment services for people with communication impairments. Advances in telehealth may help speech and language therapists (SLTs) to assess monologic discourse more systematically and improve access to services for patients who may find it difficult to attend in‐person. Aims: To examine the feasibility of telehealth administration of narrative and procedural discourse tasks with individuals with TBI and matched controls. Methods & Procedures: A total of 20 individuals with TBI and 20 healthy controls, aged 18–55 years, were directly recruited from the UK and indirectly recruited from the US. For participants with TBI, time post‐injury was at least 3 months with no diagnosis of aphasia. Control participants were matched for sex and as closely as possible for age. Feasibility of measures was based upon the time to administer both narrative tasks, the report of any technological problems, and participant feed. Discourse samples were transcribed verbatim and analysed using story grammar analysis (for narrative discourse) and identification of propositions (for procedural discourse). Interrater reliability was calculated using percentage agreement for 50% of the data. Non‐parametric analyses were used to analyse the performance of the two groups. Outcomes & Results: Narrative and procedural discourse samples were collected via telehealth in approximately 10 min with no reported technical difficulties or complaints from any participants. For narrative discourse performance, there were significant differences for the TBI and control groups for measures of complete episodes (p < 0.001) and missing episodes (p = 0.005). No significant group differences were noted for any of the procedural discourse measures. Conclusions & Implications: Results support the feasibility of collecting discourse samples via telehealth. Although the participants' discourse performance distinguished the TBI and control groups on the narrative task, no differences between the groups were noted for the procedural task. The narrative discourse task may have been more difficult than the procedural task, or video cue support reduced the cognitive load of the procedural task. This finding suggests the use of more complex procedural tasks without video cue support may be needed. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS: What is already known on this subject: Although little research has explored the feasibility of administering discourse assessments for individuals with TBI via telehealth, some studies have found that discourse interventions can be feasibly administered via telehealth. It is also well established that individuals with TBI struggle with the supra‐structural and macro‐linguistic elements of discourse production. Both procedural and narrative discourse tasks have been found to differentiate individuals with TBI from healthy controls. What this paper adds to existing knowledge: Few studies have investigated the feasibility of, and procedures for, administering discourse tasks via telehealth. Additionally, the inclusion of multiple types of discourse tasks to parse cognitive–communication abilities is lacking in the current literature. Findings from this study support that narrative and procedural discourse can be feasibly sampled via telehealth and that international collaboration for research on this topic can facilitate such studies. Individuals with TBI performed more poorly on three measures of narrative discourse. No differences between groups were identified for the procedural task. What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this work?: Telehealth assessment for discourse provides flexibility for both the individual with TBI and the speech–language therapist and does not compromise the quality of data collected. The administration of discourse tasks and collection of data was not time‐consuming and was well accepted by the study participants. Additionally, international research collaboration not only expands potential participation in research but increases the opportunity to recruit and study more diverse groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study explored the specific relationship between different lipid indicators and cognitive impairment and aimed to provide a reference for implementing targeted lipid regulation measures to prevent and alleviate cognitive impairment. Methods: We searched three databases (PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science) for literature related to hyperlipidaemia, lipid levels, and cognitive impairment, and used the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale to evaluate the quality of the identified literature. A meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.4, and the combined effect size ratio using a random-effects model (odds ratio [OR] and 95% confidence interval [CI]) was used to evaluate the association between dyslipidaemia and cognitive impairment. Results: Among initially identified 2247 papers, we ultimately included 18 studies involving a total of 758,074 patients. The results of the meta-analysis revealed that patients with hyperlipidaemia had a 1.23-fold higher risk of cognitive impairment than those with normal lipid levels (OR = 1.23, 95% CI: 1.04-1.47, p = 0.02). Further subgroup analysis showed that elevated total cholesterol (TC) levels increased the risk of cognitive impairment by 1.59-fold (OR = 1.59, 95% CI: 1.27-2.01, p < 0.0001) and were more significant in older or male patients. Moreover, elevated triglyceride levels were inversely correlated with cognitive disorders, whereas elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels were unrelated to cognitive impairment risk. Conclusions: Dyslipidaemia was strongly associated with cognitive impairment, and elevated TC levels were a risk factor for cognitive impairment. Furthermore, the damaging effects of elevated TC levels on cognition were more pronounced in older and male populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blackwater fever (BWF) is a severe syndrome occurring in patients with malaria upon antimalarial treatment, characterized by massive intravascular haemolysis and haemoglobinuria. BWF is a neglected condition and management recommendations are unavailable. We performed a scoping review to appraise available data on clinical picture, treatment and physiopathology of BWF, which could guide rationally its clinical management. MEDLINE, EMBASE, LILACS, Web of Science, and Scopus databases, and the reference list of relevant publications, were searched. Papers reporting original data on BWF cases or investigating the physiopathology of BWF were eligible. Data regarding case characteristics, trigger event, clinical management and outcome were extracted. For papers investigating the physiopathology of BWF, study design and principal findings were extracted. No quality assessment was performed. Data are presented as numbers and percentages, and summary of findings, grouped by paper focus (clinical description or physiopathology). 101 papers were included. The majority of BWF cases were observed in autochthonous children (75.7%) and adults (15.3%), in contrast with historical perception that BWF patients were typically expatriates. Clinical management was described for 794 cases; corticosteroids were used in 23. Outcome was reported for 535 patients, with 18.1% mortality. The trigger was reported for 552 (47.5%) cases; in 70.4% identified as quinine. However, two RCT comparing artesunate and quinine for falciparum malaria treatment did not find significant difference in BWF occurrence after their administration. Two case-control studies did not find significant difference in G6PDH deficiency between malaria patients with and without BWF. The physiopathology and optimal treatment of BWF remain similarly unknown as they were over a century ago. Empirical supporting treatment approach seems reasonable, while change of antimalarial drug and use of corticosteroids remain object of debate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The aim of the study was to explore and understand the organizational culture of a workplace in terms of support and well‐being for staff experiencing perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms at work. Design: It is widely acknowledged that perimenopause and menopause symptoms are experienced by a large percentage of the female workforce. There is a lack of research into how nurses are supported through menopause (Cronin et al. Issues in Mental Health Nursing, 42, 2021, 541–548). The perimenopause and menopause transition can be a challenging time where many may require symptom management and support (RCN, The Menopause and Work: Guidance for RCN Representatives, 2020). This paper presents a case study research (CSR) approach to examine one healthcare organization. Methods: CSR design was used: A survey distributed to all staff employed, a review of the available documentation on menopause and interviews with managers from different levels of the organization. The COREQ consolidated criteria was used for reporting the qualitative research reported this study. Results: The case study generated both quantitative and qualitative data using surveys, interviews and documentation. Data from the organization (n = 6905) showed a majority female workforce of 81.9% with 40.6% aged between 41 and 55 years old, meaning a third of the organization working through perimenopause and menopause. Survey responses (n = 167) collected biographical and psychometric data on the prevalence of perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms. Seven managers were interviewed highlighting two themes: Access to support and culture of menopause and 13 documents from the organization on menopause were analysed for content. The study design permitted an iterative approach to data collection and providing an in‐depth understanding of the needs and support for those experiencing perimenopause and menopause. The findings help healthcare organizations to understand their workforce and take in to account the larger numbers of female employees particularly nurses with the need to provide person‐centred support mechanisms and an organizational approach for all employees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Subsequent primary neoplasms (SPN) are among the most severe late effects and the second most frequent cause of death in childhood cancer patients. In this paper we introduce method and properties of the STATT-SCAR study (Second Tumor After Tumor Therapy, Second Cancer After Radiotherapy), which is a joint nested matched case–control study to evaluate the impact of chemotherapy (STATT) as well as radiotherapy (SCAR) on the risk of developing a SPN. Methods: Based on the cohort of the German childhood cancer registry (GCCR), we selected patients diagnosed with a first neoplasm before age 15 or younger between 1980 and 2014. We selected those with a SPN at least half a year after the first neoplasm, and matched up to four controls to each case. Therapy data were acquired from various sources, including clinical study centers and treating hospitals. To analyze the impact of radiotherapy, organ doses were estimated by using reconstructed treatment plans. The effect of chemotherapy was analyzed using substance groups summarized after isotoxic dose conversion. Results: 1244 cases with a SPN were identified and matched with 4976 controls. Treatment data were acquired for 83% of all match groups (one case and at least one control). Based on preliminary analyses, 98% of all patients received chemotherapy and 54% of all patients were treated with radiotherapy. Conclusions: Based on our data, detailed analyses of dose response relationships and treatment element combinations are possible, leading to a deeper insight into SPN risks after cancer treatments. Trial registration: The study is registered at the German clinical trial register (DRKS) under number DRKS00017847 [45]. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Based on previous studies, it has been hypothesized that tube sterilization may be associated with a lower risk of breast cancer. This study aims to investigate the relationship between tubal ligation and the risk of breast cancer through a systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods: In this systematic review and meta-analysis, PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar were searched for relevant non randomized studies published up to November 2020. Then, we screened the papers to include the eligible papers in the meta-analysis. Finally, we pooled the extracted results of individual studies to estimate the summary effect size. All analyses were done using Stata software version 13 (Stata Corp, College Station, TX). Results: Four hundred sixty-four papers were retrieved from PubMed/Medline (160), Scopus (165), and Web of Science (139), and 21 papers from Google Scholar and manual search of references in selected full texts. After the removal of duplicates and screening of the papers, 11 articles (6 cohort and 5 case-control study) were included in the final analysis. The results of cohort (RR = 0.99, 95% CI = 0.97–1.0, I2 = 21.1%) and case control studies (OR = 0.87, 95% CI = 0.62–1.12, I2 = 88.9%) revealed that tubal ligation was not significantly associated with breast cancer risk. Conclusion: According to our findings, tubal ligation cannot be considered as a risk factor associated with breast cancer risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Cognitive concerns are one of the most frequently reported symptoms by breast cancer survivors. This study aimed to evaluate perceived cognitive functioning in Portuguese women with breast cancer treated with chemotherapy. Methods: A cross‐sectional study enrolling 146 women (73 with breast cancer and 73 healthy) was conducted from August to October 2017, invited to participate through online dissemination. Participants completed self‐reported questionnaires to collect sociodemographic and clinical data and assess perceived cognitive functioning and psychological adjustment variables (anxiety and depression). Results: Compared to healthy women, women with breast cancer showed significantly lower scores on the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy‐Cognitive Function (FACT‐Cog) subscales and higher levels of depression. Both groups showed significant negative correlations between perceived cognitive functioning and anxiety and depression. Health status and depression seem to better explain perceived cognitive functioning, with health status adding significantly more explained variance beyond sociodemographic and psychological adjustment variables. Conclusion: The current findings provide evidence for the existence of more cognitive complaints among Portuguese women with breast cancer, compared to healthy individuals. Anxiety, depression, age and education also explain perceived cognitive functioning. Considering that health status and psychological adjustment seem to significantly explain perceived cognitive functioning, special attention should be given by health‐care professionals, including nurses, to designing clinical interventions for breast cancer patients to help manage cognitive impairment. Summary statement: What is already known about this topic? Cancer and associated treatments have diverse short‐ and long‐term side effects. Deficits in cognitive functions are one of the most frequently reported for breast cancer specifically due to chemotherapy.Subjective assessment of cognitive function is often neglected, although it might be clinically very useful and an important indicator of the impact of cognitive impairment on daily functioning.There is currently no Portuguese data on perceived cognitive impairment in cancer. What this paper adds? This Portuguese study shows that, compared to a matched healthy sample, breast cancer patients have significantly more cognitive complaints, as assessed by the FACT‐Cog scale.Furthermore, our findings showed that higher levels of anxiety and depression are associated with worse perceived cognitive functioning.Cognitive complaints in breast cancer patients are predicted by a complexity of factors, such as psychological adjustment, age, and education. The implications of this paper: Health‐care professionals, including nurses, should recognize cognitive complaints as legitimate in breast cancer patients.Findings may deepen nurses' knowledge about cognitive concerns in breast cancer patients, in order to improve the quality of care provided to this population.The results of the study highlight the importance of tackling this problem with specifically designed clinical interventions that target both the cognitive deficits and the psychological adjustment of patients, especially depressive symptomatology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Communicative participation poses a challenge in meetings between healthcare professionals (HCPs) and people with aphasia (PwA). How communication is affected by aphasia in group meetings, where several healthcare professionals participate together with the patient, is largely unexplored. The aim of this study was to investigate self‐rated communicative participation during goal‐setting meetings among PwA compared to patients without aphasia and to investigate whether communicative participation among PwA was associated with self‐rated knowledge about aphasia among HCPs. A further aim was to investigate if there was a difference in the use of communication strategies among HCPs in the respective situations. Methods: Nine PwA and nine control patients without aphasia rated their experience of communication during a goal‐setting meeting. Thirty‐eight HCPs rated their knowledge about aphasia and communication, and their use of communication strategies during goal‐setting meetings. Results: The PwA reported being listened to by the HCPs as well as being able to comprehend the meeting. PwA with more severe language impairment did not report a lower level of communicative participation compared to PwA with milder impairment. Half of the patients from both groups indicated some difficulty asking questions during the meeting. Patients' ratings of communication were not correlated to HCPs' knowledge of communication strategies. There was a significant difference in self‐rated use of communication strategies among HCPs for the two conditions, although the individual variation was large. Conclusion: Results from both PwA and controls imply that patients may need more support to be able to ask questions in meetings with HCPs. Although self‐ratings increase the ecological validity of the study of participation, further studies could benefit from using video observations in combination with self‐reported experience, since awareness might influence results. What this paper ads: What is already known on this subject: Aphasia is an acquired language disorder that affects patient–provider communication. In stroke rehabilitation, person‐centred goal setting is a key component. If healthcare professionals (HCPs) are not able to use adequate communication strategies, a lack of accessible communication can become a barrier to person‐centredness. There are evidence‐based communication strategies which can be used to overcome this barrier. What this paper adds to existing knowledge: This study aimed to investigate communicative participation during goal‐setting meetings from the perspective of patients with aphasia and HCPs. To our knowledge, this is the first study where persons with aphasia are asked to rate communicative participation in goal‐setting meetings. To broaden the perspective on communication and goal setting, ratings of patients with aphasia are compared to ratings by patients with stroke but no aphasia. The results of this study indicate that there is room for improvement regarding communication during goal‐setting meetings. However, asking direct questions on communicative participation to persons with severe aphasia may not be feasible. What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this work?: The results of this study imply that both patients with and without aphasia may need more support to be able to express themselves during goal‐setting meetings. There also seems to be a need for further education on aphasia and communication strategies among rehabilitation professionals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a correction notice for an article titled "Tick-Borne Encephalitis Risk Increases with Dog Ownership, Frequent Walks, and Gardening: A Case-Control Study in Germany 2018–2020" published in the journal Microorganisms. The correction states that there was an omission of one affiliation for the first author, Teresa M. Nygren, and provides the correct authorship of the paper. The authors assure that the scientific conclusions of the study are unaffected by this correction. [Extracted from the article]

Background: The Environmental Determinants of Islet Autoimmunity (ENDIA) pregnancy-birth cohort investigates the developmental origins of type 1 diabetes (T1D), with recruitment between 2013 and 2019. ENDIA is the first study in the world with comprehensive data and biospecimen collection during pregnancy, at birth and through childhood from at-risk children who have a first-degree relative with T1D. Environmental exposures are thought to drive the progression to clinical T1D, with pancreatic islet autoimmunity (IA) developing in genetically susceptible individuals. The exposures and key molecular mechanisms driving this progression are unknown. Persistent IA is the primary outcome of ENDIA; defined as a positive antibody for at least one of IAA, GAD, ZnT8 or IA2 on two consecutive occasions and signifies high risk of clinical T1D. Method: A nested case-control (NCC) study design with 54 cases and 161 matched controls aims to investigate associations between persistent IA and longitudinal omics exposures in ENDIA. The NCC study will analyse samples obtained from ENDIA children who have either developed persistent IA or progressed to clinical T1D (cases) and matched control children at risk of developing persistent IA. Control children were matched on sex and age, with all four autoantibodies absent within a defined window of the case's onset date. Cases seroconverted at a median of 1.37 years (IQR 0.95, 2.56). Longitudinal omics data generated from approximately 16,000 samples of different biospecimen types, will enable evaluation of changes from pregnancy through childhood. Conclusions: This paper describes the ENDIA NCC study, omics platform design considerations and planned univariate and multivariate analyses for its longitudinal data. Methodologies for multivariate omics analysis with longitudinal data are discovery-focused and data driven. There is currently no single multivariate method tailored specifically for the longitudinal omics data that the ENDIA NCC study will generate and therefore omics analysis results will require either cross validation or independent validation. The ENDIA nested case-control study will utilize longitudinal omics data on approximately 16,000 samples from 190 unique children at risk of type 1 diabetes (T1D), including 54 who have developed islet autoimmunity (IA), followed during pregnancy, at birth and during early childhood, enabling the developmental origins of T1D to be explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obesity is a global epidemic disease representing the fifth leading cause of death in the world. It was shown that it is caused by the interaction between environmental factors and genes including leptin gene (LEP). This paper aimed to analyze the association between the LEP gene polymorphisms rs7799039 and rs11761556 with obesity in Moroccan individuals as well as to perform an update meta-analysis of this genetic association. Both polymorphisms were genotyped in 146 obesity patients and 104 controls using real-time PCR technique. The genetic association analysis and the comparison of quantitative parameters were carried out using the R language. Moreover, a meta-analysis including 20 genetic association studies was performed using Review Manager 5.3 software. No significant association was found between the polymorphisms rs7799039 and rs11761556 and the risk of obesity. The comparison of biochemical and clinical parameters between the genotypes of the rs7799039 polymorphism, showed a significant increased triglycerides levels in carriers of AA or GA genotypes (P value = 0.040). The meta-analysis showed no significant association between the rs7799039 polymorphism and obesity under all genetic models. In conclusion, the case–control study and meta-analysis demonstrated that the LEP gene polymorphisms rs7799039 and rs11761556 cannot be considered as genetic risk factors for obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a medical setting, observational studies commonly involve patients who initiate a particular treatment (e.g., medication therapy) and others who do not, and the goal is to draw causal inferences about the effect of treatment on a time-to-event outcome. A difficulty with such studies is that the notion of a treatment initiation time is not well-defined for the control group. In this paper, we propose a Bayesian approach to estimate treatment effects in longitudinal observational studies where treatment is given by indication and thereby the exact timing of treatment is only observed for treated units. We present a framework for conceptualizing an underlying randomized experiment in this setting based on separating the time of indication for treatment, which we model using a latent state-space process, from the mechanism that determines assignment to treatment versus control. Next, we develop a two-step inferential approach that uses Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) posterior sampling to (1) infer the unobserved indication times for units in the control group, and (2) estimate treatment effects based on inferential conclusions from Step 1. This approach allows us to incorporate uncertainty about the unobserved indication times which induces uncertainty in both the selection of the control group and the measurement of time-to-event outcomes for these controls. We demonstrate our approach to study the effects on mortality of inappropriately prescribing phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5Is), a medication contraindicated for certain types of pulmonary hypertension, using data from the Veterans Affairs (VA) health care system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Eating disorders (ED) are a public health concern due to their increasing prevalence and severe associated comorbidities. The aim of this study was to identify mental health and health behaviours associated with each form of EDs. Methods: A case–control study was performed: cases were patients with EDs managed for the first time in a specialized nutrition department and controls without EDs were matched on age and gender with cases. Participants of this study filled self-administered paper questionnaire (EDs group) or online questionnaire (non-ED group). Collected data explored socio-demographics, mental health including anxiety and depression, body image, life satisfaction, substances and internet use and presence of IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome). Results: 248 ED patients (broad categories: 66 Restrictive, 22 Bulimic and 160 Compulsive) and 208 non-ED subjects were included in this study. Mean age was 36.0 (SD 13.0) and 34.8 (SD 11.6) in ED and non-ED groups, respectively. Among patients and non-ED subjects, 86.7% and 83.6% were female, respectively. Body Shape Questionnaire mean score was between 103.8 (SD 46.1) and 125.0 (SD 36.2) for EDs and non-ED group, respectively (p < 0.0001). ED patients had a higher risk of unsatisfactory friendly life, anxiety, depression and IBS than non-ED s (all p < 0.0001) Higher risk of anxiety, depression and IBS was found for the three categories of EDs. Higher risk of smoking was associated only with restrictive ED, while or assault history and alcohol abuse problems were associated only with bulimic ED. The risk of binge drinking was lower in all EDs categories than in non-ED. Conclusion: This study highlights the common comorbidities shared by all EDs patients and also identifies some specific features related to ED categories. These results should contribute to the conception of future screening and prevention programs in at risk young population as well as holistic care pathways for ED patients. Plain English summary: This case–control study evaluated mental health and health behaviours associated with the main categories of Eating Disorders (EDs). Cases were patients with EDs initiating care in a specialized nutrition department and controls without ED were matched on age and gender with cases. Self-administered paper questionnaires were filled by ED 248 patients (66 Restrictive, 22 Bulimic and 160 Compulsive) and online questionnaire by 241 non-ED controls. Body image satisfaction was significantly worse in ED patients than in controls. (p < 0.0001). Dissatisfactory life, anxiety, depression and irritable bowel syndrome were more found in patients with all EDs categories than in non-ED (p < 0.0001). Smoking risk was increased only in restrictive patients while and assault history and alcohol abuse was increased only in bulimic patients. These results highlight the global burden of ED and related comorbidities and provide useful information for future screening, prevention and care programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Abdominal surgery is considered a high-risk procedure for the development of surgical site infection (SSI). Few studies have evaluated the relative importance of surgical site infection risk factors in terms of consistency in abdominal surgery. Therefore, this comprehensive review article mapped and summarized the evidence aimed to determine the relative importance of the risk factors and incidence of SSIs in abdominal surgery. Methods: A literature review was conducted using electronic databases and search engines such as Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science up to March 16, 2023. There was no language restriction for the papers to be included in the study. The relative consistency of the risk factors was measured and evaluated using the methodology of the Joanna Briggs Institute. Original peer-reviewed cohort and case-control studies were included if all types of SSIs were included. Meta-analysis was performed to determine the pooled estimates of SSI incidences. Results: Of 14,237 identified records, 107 articles were included in the review. The pooled incidence of SSI was 10.6% (95% CI: 9.02-12.55%, χ²=12986.44, P<0.001). Operative time and higher wound class were both significant consistent risk factors for SSI incidence. Patients' educational status, malnutrition, functional status, and history of neurological/psychiatric disorders were all candidates for consistent risk factors, with insufficient evidence. Conclusion: The findings of the present study indicated that SSI in abdominal surgery was a multifactorial phenomenon with a considerable risk and had different risk factors with various relative importance. Determining the relative importance of the risk factors for the prevention and control of SSI is strongly recommended. This manuscript has been released as a preprint at the research square: (https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-3219597/v1). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Executive functions have both direct and indirect effects on reading comprehension. Previous studies have shown that people with hearing loss (HL) perform poorly on executive functions and reading comprehension tasks. This scoping review explored the current state of the literature relating executive function and reading comprehension in children and adolescents with cochlear implants. Searches were carried out in five databases to identify empirical studies related to executive functions, reading comprehension, and children and/or adolescents with cochlear implants. All results were analysed by peer-reviewers. A systematic search only found four studies in the field. We carried out our narrative review of these papers, with a focus on the mediating role of oral language on the relationship between executive functions and reading comprehension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Substance use disorder is a growing health problem all over the world. The coexistence of substance misuse, affective temperaments, and emotion dysregulation has not been studied sufficiently. The present study aimed to evaluate the role of affective temperaments and emotion dysregulation on substance use disorder. The Emotion Dysregulation and Affective Temperaments in Opioid Use Disorder study was designed observational. This paper presents only the baseline assessments of the patient and control groups. One-year remission rates of the patients' group will be reported elsewhere after 1-year follow-up. Sixty-seven patients with opioid use disorder and 68 healthy controls enrolled. All participants were administered to The Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5, Temperament Evaluation of Memphis, Pisa, Paris, San Diego Autoquestionnaire, Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale, Beck Anxiety Inventory, and Beck Depression Inventory. Patients with opioid use disorder had higher scores from all temperamental scales and showed higher difficulties on emotion regulation than the control group. Even controlling the confounding effects of anxiety and depression levels, dysthymic and anxious temperament scores were found correlated with the emotion dysregulation score in the patient group. The emotional traits (i.e., affective temperaments) and emotion regulation abilities play a crucial role in substance use disorder. While managing substance use disorder, being aware of affective temperament characteristics and/or interventions to improve emotion regulation skills may be helpful. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Revision rates and outcome measures after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) with suture tape as an internal brace is not well-documented because of the emerging nature of the technique. Hypothesis: ACLR with internal bracing (IB) would lead to decreased revision ACLR compared with traditional ACLR while exhibiting comparable patient outcomes. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: A total of 200 patients were included in this study. Patients aged between 13 and 39 years at the time of surgery who underwent primary autograft ACLR with IB between 2010 and 2020 and were enrolled in our institution's registry with a minimum of 2-year follow-up were identified and matched 1 to 1 with a non-internal brace (no-IB) group based on concomitant procedures and patient characteristics. Pre- and postoperatively, patients completed the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, Marx activity rating scale, Veterans RAND 12-Item Health Survey, and visual analog scale for pain. Knee laxity measurements via the KT-1000 arthrometer were included in the pre- and postoperative objective clinical assessments. Results: A total of 100 IB patients were matched with 100 no-IB patients based primarily on concomitant procedures and secondarily on patient characteristics. The IB group underwent significantly fewer revision ACLRs (1% vs 8%; P =.017). Even though the no-IB group had a significantly longer mean final follow-up time (48.6 months [95% CI, 45.4-51.7] vs 33.4 months [95% CI, 30.3-36.5]; P <.001), the time elapsed from the original ACLR to the revision did not differ significantly between groups, and the mean ages for the IB and no-IB groups were comparable (19 vs 19.9 years). All postoperative patient-reported outcome scores between the 2 groups were comparable and significantly improved postoperatively except for the Marx score, which significantly decreased stepwise for both groups postoperatively. KT-1000 measurements significantly improved in both groups after surgery with the IB and no-IB cohorts yielding comparable results at the manual maximum pull (0.97 vs 0.65 mm). Conclusion: ACLR with IB resulted in a significantly decreased risk of revision ACLRs while maintaining comparable patient-reported outcomes. Therefore, incorporating an internal brace into ACLR appears to be safe and effective within these study parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A subset of patients with eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) respond to proton-pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy, however they cannot be distinguished prior to PPI trial and the mechanism of PPI response remains unclear. Improved understanding of the distinct patient phenotypes in PPI-responsive EoE (PPI-r-EoE), PPI-non-responsive EoE (PPI-nr-EoE) and erosive esophagitis (EE) may help guide management. The aim of this paper is to compare the clinical and allergy profiles of PPI-r-EoE versus PPI-nr-EoE and EE. This was a retrospective case-control study of EoE patients (>15 eos/hpf on esophageal biopsies) at a tertiary center. EE controls were identified from the pathology database. EoE patients were classified as PPI-r-EoE or PPI-nr-EoE based on histologic response to twice-daily PPI for ≥8 weeks. Patient demographics, comorbidities, symptoms, allergy history and endoscopic findings were recorded. Univariate analyses were performed using the Fisher-exact test or t -test. Multivariable analyses were performed using logistic regression. In all, 104 EoE (57 PPI-r-EoE/47 PPI-nr-EoE) and 80 EE subjects were included. On multivariable analyses, allergic conditions (aOR 20.1, P  < 0.0001) and rings (aOR 108.3, P  = 0.001) were independent predictors for PPI-r-EoE versus EE, whereas allergic conditions (aOR 4.8, P  = 0.03), rings (aOR 27.5, P  = 0.002) and furrows (aOR 17.1, P  = 0.04) were independent predictors for PPI-nr-EoE versus EE. Esophageal rings was the only significant predictor found in PPI-nr-EoE versus PPI-r-EoE (OR 2.5, P  = 0.03). Allergic conditions and esophageal rings are significantly more prevalent in PPI-r-EoE and PPI-nr-EoE compared with EE. PPI-r-EoE appears clinically similar to PPI-nr-EoE and significantly different from EE. Further studies are needed to delineate the underlying pathophysiology of PPI-r-EoE versus PPI-nr-EoE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The most common conservative treatment for Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) is bracing. However, several papers questioned the effectiveness of bracing for curves between 40° and 50° Cobb: the effectiveness in preventing curve progression could be as low as 35%. Seriate casting is considered a standard approach in early onset scoliosis; however, in the setting of AIS, cast treatment is seldom utilized, with only few studies reporting on its effectiveness. Aim of the study: The main aim of the study is to determine whether a seriate casting with Risser casts associated with bracing is more effective in preventing curve progression than bracing alone in curves larger than 40°. Furthermore, the secondary endpoints were: (1) is there a difference in effectiveness of casting between Thoracic (T) and Thoracolumbar/Lumbar (TL/L) curves? (2) Does the 'in cast' correction predicts the treatment outcome? (3) What is the effect on thoracic kyphosis of casting? Methods: This is a retrospective monocentric case–control study; through an Institutional Database search we identified all the patients treated at our institution between 1 January 2017 and 31 December 2020, with a diagnosis of AIS, Risser grade between 0 and 4 at the beginning of the treatment, at least one curve above 40° Cobb and treatment with either seriate Risser casting and bracing (Study Group, SG) or bracing alone (Control Group, CG). Standing full spine X-rays in AP and LL are obtained before and after the cast treatment; only AP standing full spine X-rays 'in-cast' are obtained for each cast made. Patients were stratified according to the curve behavior at the end of treatment (Risser 5): progression was defined as ≥6° increase in the curve magnitude or fusion needed; stabilization is defined as a change in curve by ±5°; and improvement was defined as ≥6° reduction in the curve. Results: For the final analysis, 55 compliant patients (12 M, 43 F, mean age 13.5 ± 1.6) were included in the SG and 27 (4 M, 23 F, mean age 13.6 ± 1.6) in the CG. Eight (14.5%) patients in the SG failed the conservative treatment while 14 (51.3%) failed in the CG. Consequently, the Relative Risk for progression in the Efficacy Analysis was 1.8 (95% CI 1, 3–2.6, p = 0.001), and the Number Needed to Treat was 2,4. No significant difference was found between the T and TL/L curves concerning the 'progressive' endpoint (z-score 0.263, p = 0.79). The mean percentage of 'in cast' curve reduction was 40.1 ± 15.2%; no significant correlation was found between the percentage of correction and the outcome (Spearman Correlation Coefficient 0.18). Finally, no significant differences between baseline and end of FU TK were found (32° ± 16.2 vs. 29.6 ± 15.8, p = ns). Discussion: Seriate Risser casting for AIS with larger curves (>40° Cobb) is effective in reducing curve progression when compared with full time bracing alone in treatment compliant patients. The treatment is equally effective in controlling T and TL/L curves; furthermore, a slight but non-significant decrease in TK was observed in patients treated with casting. This type of treatment should be considered for AIS patients who present with large curves to potentially reduce the percentage of surgical cases. Short Abstract: The aim of the study is to determine whether seriate Risser casting associated with bracing is more effective in preventing curve progression than bracing alone in curves larger than 40°. This is a retrospective monocentric case–control study; we identified all the patients treated at our institution with a diagnosis of AIS, Risser grade 0–4 at the beginning of the treatment, at least one curve above 40° Cobb (35° if treated with bracing alone) and treatment with either seriate Risser casting and bracing (Study Group, SG) or bracing alone (Control Group, CG). Fifty-five patients (12 M, 43 F, mean age 13.5 ± 1.6) were included in the SG and 30 (5 M, 25 F, mean age 13.9 ± 1.7) in the CG. Eight (14,5%) patients in the SG failed the conservative treatment while fifteen (50%) failed in the CG. Consequently, the Relative Risk for progression in the Efficacy Analysis was 1.8 (95% CI 1.3–2.6, p = 0.001), and the Number Needed to Treat was 2,4. Seriate Risser casting for AIS with larger curves (>40°) is effective in reducing curve progression when compared with full time bracing alone. This type of treatment should be considered for AIS patients who present with large curves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: We aimed to identify the risk factors for delayed discharge in a day surgery centre in west China. Background: Delayed discharge affected by various factors is a key indicator for healthcare quality of day surgery. However, few studies have focused on this issue in developing countries where the day surgery started much later. Design A retrospective case–control design. Method: A random sample of 169 delayed discharge cases and 514 normal discharge cases was randomly selected from 38,021 day surgery cases from May 2011 to May 2019 in a tertiary teaching hospital in west China. Socio‐demographic and clinical characteristics of patients were collected through the hospital electronic database and a chart review. A multivariate logistic regression was conducted to identify the risk factors for delayed discharge. Results: The urban employee basic medical insurance, comorbidity, general anaesthesia, pain, fever, bleeding and metabolic disorder were identified as the risk factors for delayed discharge. Living in the city where the hospital located was a protective factor for delayed discharge. Conclusion: Post‐operative complications including fever, pain, bleeding and metabolic disorder were the most important risk factors for delayed discharge. The pre‐operative prevention, careful monitoring and rapid reactions to post‐operative complications may reduce delayed discharge. Summary statement: What is already known about this topic? Day surgery is conducted worldwide due to its time‐saving, cost‐effectiveness and low risk for post‐operative infection.Delayed discharge is considered as one of the most important indicators for healthcare quality of a day surgery centre.Most of the identified risk factors for delayed discharge are from the developed countries' experience of day surgery and remain controversial. What this paper adds? The insurance reimbursement rate influenced patients' willingness for discharge.Living in the same city where the hospital is located was a protective factor for delayed discharge.Post‐operative metabolic disorder was a risk factor for delayed discharge. The implications of this paper: Reducing the insurance reimbursement rate of patients who meet discharge criteria but ask for longer hospital stays may be helpful to reduce delayed discharge.Careful monitoring and rapid response to post‐operative complications may be simple but useful measures to reduce the risk of delayed discharge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

M. Y. Kim, J. Yun, D. Y. Kang, T. H. Kim, M. K. Oh, S. Lee, et al. HLA‐A* 24: 02 increase the risk of allopurinol‐induced drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms in HLA‐B* 58: 01 carriers in a Korean population; a multicenter cross‐sectional case‐control study. Clin Transl Allergy. 2022 Sep 15;12(9):e12193.This article [1] was published with a technical error in Figure 2, a size of bars in the allopurinol‐tolerant controls. The authors have re‐examined the data and confirmed that this correction would not have resulted in any alteration to the results or conclusion of the paper. The figure 2 should be shown as below.GRAPH [Extracted from the article]

The aim of the present study was to estimate risk factors for type 2 diabetes in women. A case–control study included 99 newly diagnosed cases of type 2 diabetes and 198 controls. Descriptive statistics were used, and conditional univariate logistic regression analysis was used to determine differences between cases and controls. According to multivariate analysis-independent risk factors for T2DM were as follows: oral contraceptives (OR = 2.57; 95% CI = 0.99–6.62), and their longer duration of use (OR = 3.55; 95% CI = 1.79–6.99); greater quantity of coffee consumed (OR = 1.89; 95% CI = 1.06–3.39), occupation (odds ratio – OR = 3.17; 95% confidence interval – CI = 1.57–6.41); never been pregnant (OR = 5.88; 95% CI = 2.23–15.49); family history of diabetes (OR = 18.52; 95% CI = 7.25–47.62); overweight and obesity (OR = 2.13, 95% CI = 1.39–4.53); stress (OR = 4.42; 95% CI = 2.19–8.26), and the greater number of stressful life event (OR = 1.65; 95% CI = 1.22–2.23). The present study emphasizes the role of oral contraceptive use, a greater quantity of coffee consumed, occupation, never been pregnant, overweight and obesity, major stressful life events, and family history of diabetes in the development of type 2 diabetes. What is already known about this topic (1) It is well known that lifestyle factors and genetics are involved in the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and its complications. (2) Gender differences in T2DM are explained by differences in sex chromosomes, sex hormones, possible hormonal disbalance, lifestyle habits in nutrition, and physical activity. (3) The global prevalence of diabetes will increase to 366 million by 2030, even if the prevalence of obesity remains constant. (4) The vast majority of patients with diabetes have T2DM. (5) Knowledge of modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors for T2DM is important for the prevention of this disease. (6) Many factors have been investigated for their relation to T2DM, but data on the association between some of them and the risk for diabetes are not consistent. What this paper adds (1) Independent predictive factors for T2DM in women are oral contraceptive use and quantity of coffee consumption. (2) Other independent predictive factors for T2DM include occupation, never been pregnant, overweight and obesity, major stressful life events, and family history of T2DM. (3) A greater number of children was significantly negatively related to T2DM. (4) In this study, oral contraceptive use and especially their use for 5 years and more were significantly positively associated with T2DM after adjustment for potential confounding factors. (5) This study highlights, in particular, the need to target overweight and obese women who use oral contraceptives, have never been pregnant, and consume a greater quantity of coffee, with major stressful life events and a family history of diabetes. These groups are more vulnerable to T2DM; thus, prevention should focus on these groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper discusses a method for the diagnosis of peripheral blood flow disorders in type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) using a distributed system of wearable blood microcirculation analyzers based on laser Doppler flowmetry. This method was tested in a clinical setting. The research resulted in the development of a classification model based on linear discriminant analysis and allowing the presence of peripheral blood flow disorders in patients with type 2 diabetes to be identified with sensitivity and specificity indicators of 0.88 and 0.90 respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Reviews on Down syndrome do not or only marginally address the issue of kidney and urogenital tract abnormalities, and lower urinary tract dysfunctions. Hence, we performed a meta-analysis of the literature. Methods: A literature search was undertaken in the Library of Medicine, Web of Science and Excerpta Medica. The search algorithm combined various keywords: (Down syndrome OR trisomy 21 OR mongolism) AND (kidney OR urinary tract OR bladder) AND (malformation OR dysfunction OR anomaly OR abnormality OR size). The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement was used. Results: Eight case-control studies were retained for the final analysis. Three studies addressed the prevalence of kidney and urogenital tract abnormalities: an increased pooled relative risk of 5.49 (95%-CI: 1.78–16.93) was observed in Down syndrome. Penile malformations, obstructive malformations (including urethral valves), dilated urinary tract system, and kidney hypodysplasia were especially common. Three reports addressed the prevalence of lower urinary tract dysfunction: an increased pooled relative risk of 2.95 (95%-CI: 1.15–7.56) was observed. Finally, an autoptic study and an ultrasound study disclosed a reduced kidney size in Down syndrome. Conclusions: This meta-analysis indicates that abnormalities of the kidney and urogenital tract, lower urinary tract dysfunctions, and a reduced kidney size present with an increased frequency in individuals with Down syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To identify differences in the muscle mechanical properties of the pelvic floor (PF) and lumbar paravertebral (LP) muscles between young nulliparous and uni/multiparous women. Secondarily, specific behaviors, depending on the presence or absence or urinary incontinence (UI), were also researched. Design: Case–control study. Setting: Higher education institution. Participants: One hundred young women participated, divided into two groups depending on whether they had vaginal birth (nulliparous or uni/multiparous). Each group included women with and without UI. Main measures: A muscle mechanical properties (tone, stiffness, decrement—inverse of elasticity—, and viscoelastic properties: relaxation and creep) assessment of the PF and LP muscles were performed with a hand-held tonometer. Results: Tone and stiffness of both sides of the PF presented group by UI interaction (p < 0.05), with uni/multiparous women with UI showing higher tone and stiffness compared to multiparous women without UI. In LP muscles, uni/multiparous women showed greater tone and stiffness on the right and left sides [−2.57 Hz (95% confidence interval −4.42,−0.72) and −79.74 N/m (−143.52,−15.97); −2.20 Hz (−3.82,−0.58) and −81.30 N/m (−140.66-,21.95), respectively], as well as a decrease in viscoelastic properties compared to nulliparous women [relaxation: 2.88 ms (0.31,5.44); creep: 0.15 (0.01,0.30); relaxation: 2.69 ms (0.13,5.25); creep: 0.14 (0,0.28), respectively]. Conclusions: Vaginal birth and UI have a differential influence on the muscle mechanical properties of the PF and LP muscles. The determination of muscle mechanical properties by externally applied hand-held tonometry improves the knowledge of the lumbopelvic status, with applicability in clinical and research fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Periodontal disease occurs frequently in patients with limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis (lcSSc) while data about underlying pathways contributing to periodontal changes are scarce. The aim of this study was to evaluate periodontal disease and to investigate its association with endothelial dysfunction and clinical changes in patients with lcSSc. Methods: In 38 lcSSc patients and 38 controls, periodontal status was evaluated by disease‐specific questionnaire, dental examination including bleeding on probing (BOP), pocket depth, and plaque index, and dental panoramic radiograph. Periodontopathogen bacteria were collected subgingivally using paper points and interleukin‐1 (IL‐1) gene polymorphisms were evaluated using buccal swabs. Endothelial dysfunction was measured by flow‐mediated dilatation, pulse‐wave velocity and biochemical analysis, including arginine metabolites and endothelial microparticles. Additionally, lcSSc‐specific clinical changes and parameters were recorded. Results: Periodontitis was present in 31 patients with lcSSc (81.6%) and in 27 controls (71.1%) (p =.280). LcSSc patients had a lower teeth number (p =.039) and Eikenella corrodens was to a higher degree detectable in patients with lcSSc (p =.041) while the remaining periodontal parameters revealed no differences between both cohorts. Significant correlations between parameters of arterial stiffness, EUSTAR index, number of teeth and BOP were observed (all p <.05). Detection of Prevotella intermedia was associated with selected IL‐1 gene polymorphisms (p =.032) and Porphyromonas gingivalis was associated with severe periodontitis (p =.041). Conclusion: Periodontal disease may occur frequently in patients with lcSSc and may be associated with arterial stiffness and with SSc activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pseudofolliculitis barbae (PFB) is a chronic inflammatory condition characterized by follicular and perifollicular papules and pustules primarily affecting the beard and neck area. PFB is a condition that predominantly affects patients with skin of colour. The objective of this paper is to review the epidemiology, pathogenesis and presentation of PFB, and assess the most recent evidence-based treatment options and recommendations for PFB. This is important to increase the quality of care given to target patient populations and to address the prominent disparity in healthcare management of patients with skin of colour. A literature review was conducted utilizing PubMed and Cochrane Library. The key term 'pseudofolliculitis barbae' was used. Search parameters were set to search from 1987 to the present. Results were further narrowed by limiting the literature review to published observational studies, case studies, case series, randomized control trials and case–control studies. Effective treatment for PFB requires a multifaceted approach that targets various aspects of the pathogenesis. Current treatments include preventive measures, antibiotics, corticosteroids, keratolytics, chemical depilatories and/or laser treatments. Topical therapies are currently the mainstay treatment. However, laser hair removal has become a potential long-term treatment option, and additional studies are warranted to understand its long-term efficacy and permanency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to explore structural drivers and barriers that distinguish US business school Principles of Responsible Management Education (PRME) signatories from nonsignatory peer institutions, and identify structural drivers of PRME institution strategic integration of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into their ongoing responsible management education reports. Design/methodology/approach: This study uses a case–control method to compare the US PRME signatory sample to a size-matched random sample of US business management programs/schools. This study uses conditional inference tree and correlation analyses to highlight distinctive structural characteristics associated with US PRME signatories and with their strategies to highlight sustainability through the SDGs. Findings: There are significant and practically meaningful structural differences between US-based PRME signatories and US programs/schools that have not adopted the PRME principles. Further, PRME schools differentially integrate SDGs in their information sharing based on structural characteristics. Practical implications: Understanding school/program characteristics that align with PRME and different sustainability strategies affords a better comprehension of where targeted resources might be most effective in broadening the appeal and adoption of PRME and subsequent sustainability strategy integration. Originality/value: While previous work on PRME signatories has depended heavily on case studies of successful implementation and has examined the content of PRME activity by school, the present work compares the population of actual US signatories with a random sample of nonsignatories to determine leverage points for enacting broader PRME adoption. The study also examines the strategies that PRME schools use to integrate the UN SDGs and the structures that support such. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is of great interest to detect missing heritability for human complex traits. Additive genetic effects (ADD), maternal genetic effects (MGE), and parent‐of‐origin effects (POE) play important roles in genetic mechanisms. Methods have been developed in the literature to analyze heritabilities due to ADD, POE, and MGE separately but not simultaneously. In this paper, a new model termed APM is proposed based on mother–child duos genetic data, which orthogonally decomposes heritabilities due to ADD, POE, and MGE. This orthogonal decomposition is biologically interpretable since it ideally characterizes independent contributions due to the three effects. We focus on case–control data that are widely adopted in genetics studies and develop a novel method R‐PCGC by adjusting estimation biases due to sampling bias in case–control studies and imposing nonnegative constraints on the heritability estimates. Large sample properties such as consistency and asymptotic normality are established for R‐PCGC. The desired properties of R‐PCGC (i.e., asymptotic unbiasedness and nonnegativity) are confirmed through simulations. Finally, R‐PCGC regression is applied to a case–control study of preterm births from the Danish National Birth Cohort (DNBC). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is the most common vaginal dysbiosis among women of reproductive age. Micronutrient deficiencies, including vitamin D deficiency, can increase the risk of BV. The findings of previous studies regarding the relationship between vitamin D deficiency and BV were conflicting. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the association between BV and serum level of 25-hydroxy vitamin D. Materials and methods: This case-control study was conducted in Gonabad County in 2021. One hundred and twenty-five confirmed BV cases and 125 controls who were matched based on age and intercourse frequency (maximum difference of two days per week) enrolled in the study. Data collection was performed using a demographic and reproductive data questionnaire and a checklist for recording Whiff test results, serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D level, litmus paper observation, and microscopic findings (clue cells). Serum level of vitamin D was evaluated based on enzyme-linked immunoassay method (Monobind kit) from 0.5 ml venous blood drawn from each participant. The conditional logistic regression model was used to analyze data. Results: The BV cases had significantly lower 25-hydroxy vitamin D serum levels than controls. The odds of BV increased with vitamin D deficiency (Adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 4.34, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.39–13.4, p = 0.011, FDR q-value = 0.051), vitamin D insufficiency (AOR: 3.65, 95% CI: 1.23–10.85; p = 0.020; FDR q-value = 0.053), cigarette/hookah smoking (AOR: 3.65, 95% CI: 1.23, 10.85; p = 0.020; FDR q-value = 0.053) and lower age at first intercourse (AOR: 1.16, 95% CI: 1.05, 1.28; p = 0.004; FDR q-value = 0.048). The odds of BV was 0.80 and 0.78 times lower in participants who had coitus interruptus (AOR: 0.20, 95% CI: 0.06, 0.63; p = 0.006; FDR q-value = 0.048) and condom use (AOR: 0.28, 95% CI: 0.10, 0.79; p = 0.016; FDR q-value = 0.051), respectively, compared to participants who did not use contraceptives. Conclusion: These findings suggested that lower serum vitamin D levels were associated with an increased risk of developing BV. However, further studies are needed to confirm the results of the present study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) is an important health issue in elderly people. Many studies have suggested that genetic factors are important risk factors for OA, of which tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) is one of the most examined genes. Moreover, several studies have investigated the relationship between TNF-α G-308A polymorphisms and OA risk, but consistent results have not been obtained. Objective: This study examines the association between TNF-α G-308A polymorphisms and knee OA. Moreover, meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis (TSA) was used to determine whether this is a susceptibility gene for knee OA. Methods: Between 2015 and 2019, 591 knee OA cases and 536 healthy controls were recruited. The Kellgren–Lawrence grading system was used to identify the knee OA cases. A meta-analysis was conducted including related studies published until 2020 from PubMed, Embase, and previous meta-analysis to improve the evidence level of the current study. The results were expressed as odds ratios (ORs) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) to evaluate the effect of this polymorphism on knee OA risk. The TSA was used to estimate the sample sizes required in this issue. Results: A nonsignificant association was found between the AA genotype and knee OA [adjusted OR, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.62–1.15) in the recessive model] in the present case–control study, and analysis of other genetic models showed a similar trend. After adding the critical case–control samples for Asians, the TNF-α G-308A, AA genotype exhibited 2.57 times more risk of developing arthritis when compared with the GG + GA genotype (95% CI, 1.56–4.23), and the cumulative samples for TSA (n = 2182) were sufficient to obtain a definite conclusion. Conclusions: The results of this meta-analysis revealed that the TNF-α G-308A, AA genotype is a susceptible genotype for OA in the Asian population. This study integrated all current evidence to arrive at this conclusion, suggesting that future studies on Asians are not required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine the clinical manifestations, risk factors, treatment modalities and maternal outcomes in pregnant women with lab-confirmed COVID-19 and compare it with COVID-19 negative pregnant women in same age group. Design: Multicentric case-control study. Data sources: Ambispective primary data collection through paper-based forms from 20 tertiary care centres across India between April and November 2020. Study population: All pregnant women reporting to the centres with a lab-confirmed COVID-19 positive result matched with controls. Data quality: Dedicated research officers extracted hospital records, using modified WHO Case Record Forms (CRF) and verified for completeness and accuracy. Statistical analysis: Data converted to excel files and statistical analyses done using STATA 16 (StataCorp, TX, USA). Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) estimated using unconditional logistic regression. Results: A total of 76,264 women delivered across 20 centres during the study period. Data of 3723 COVID positive pregnant women and 3744 age-matched controls was analyzed. Of the positive cases 56·9% were asymptomatic. Antenatal complications like preeclampsia and abruptio placentae were seen more among the cases. Induction and caesarean delivery rates were also higher among Covid positive women. Pre-existing maternal co-morbidities increased need for supportive care. There were 34 maternal deaths out of the 3723(0.9%) positive mothers, while covid negative deaths reported from all the centres were 449 of 72,541 (0·6%). Conclusion: Covid-19 infection predisposed to adverse maternal outcomes in a large cohort of Covid positive pregnant women as compared to the negative controls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing incidence of type 1 diabetes (T1D) in children is a growing global concern. It is known that genetic and environmental factors contribute to childhood T1D. An optimal model to predict the development of T1D in children using Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) would aid medical practitioners in developing intervention plans. This paper for the first time has built a model to predict the risk of developing T1D and identify its significant KPIs in children aged (0-14) in Saudi Arabia. Machine learning methods, namely Logistic Regression, Random Forest, Support Vector Machine, Naive Bayes, and Artificial Neural Network have been utilised and compared for their relative performance. Analyses were performed in a population-based case-control study from three Saudi Arabian regions. The dataset (n = 1,142) contained demographic and socioeconomic status, genetic and disease history, nutrition history, obstetric history, and maternal characteristics. The comparison between case and control groups showed that most children (cases = 68% and controls = 88%) are from urban areas, 69% (cases) and 66% (control) were delivered after a full-term pregnancy and 31% of cases group were delivered by caesarean, which was higher than the controls (χ2 = 4.12, P-value = 0.042). Models were built using all available environmental and family history factors. The efficacy of models was evaluated using Area Under the Curve, Sensitivity, F Score and Precision. Full logistic regression outperformed other models with Accuracy = 0.77, Sensitivity, F Score and Precision of 0.70, and AUC = 0.83. The most significant KPIs were early exposure to cow's milk (OR = 2.92, P = 0.000), birth weight >4 Kg (OR = 3.11, P = 0.007), residency(rural) (OR = 3.74, P = 0.000), family history (first and second degree), and maternal age >25 years. The results presented here can assist healthcare providers in collecting and monitoring influential KPIs and developing intervention strategies to reduce the childhood T1D incidence rate in Saudi Arabia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Stroke remains a major leading cause of morbidity and death globally. For ischemic stroke, the most frequent type of stroke, there are numerous risk models and risk assessments offered. Further research into potential risk factors or triggers is being sought to improve stroke risk models. Schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and alcohol use disorder are all common causes of serious mental illnesses in the general population. Due to the tangled relationship between stroke and many chronic illnesses, lifestyle factors, and diet that may be present in a patient with a mental disease, the relationship between mental diseases and stroke requires further validation. Consequently, the purpose of this study is to assess the potential influence of bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and alcohol use disorder on stroke patients as compared to non-stroke participants, after controlling for demographic, physical, and medical conditions. We aimed, as a secondary objective, to evaluate the impact of these pre-existing disorders on stroke severity levels. Methods: This research is a case-control survey study involving 113 Lebanese patients with a clinical diagnosis of ischemic stroke and 451 gender-matched volunteers without clinical signs of stroke as controls recruited from several hospitals in Lebanon (April 2020–April 2021). Based on the participant's consent, data was collected by filling out an anonymous paper-based questionnaire. Results: All of the odds ratios (ORs) generated by our regression model were greater than 1, indicating that the factors studied were associated with an increased risk of ischemic stroke. As such having schizophrenia (adjusted OR [aOR]: 6.162, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.136–33.423), bipolar disorder (aOR: 4.653, 95% CI: 1.214–17.834), alcohol use disorder (aOR: 3.918, 95% CI: 1.584–9.689), atrial fibrillation (aOR: 2.415, 95% CI: 1.235–4.721), diabetes (aOR: 1.865, 95% CI: 1.117–3.115), heart diseases (aOR: 9.890, 95% CI: 5.099–19.184), and asthma-COPD (aOR: 1.971, 95% CI: 1.190–3.263) were all involved with a high risk of developing an ischemic stroke. Moreover, obesity (aOR: 1.732, 95% CI: 1.049–2.861) and vigorous physical activity (aOR: 4.614, 95% CI: 2.669–7.978) were also linked to an increased risk of stroke. Moreover, our multinomial regression model revealed that the odds of moderate to severe/severe stroke were significantly higher in people with pre-stroke alcohol use disorder (aOR: 1.719, 95% CI: 1.385–2.133), bipolar disorder (aOR: 1.656, 95% CI: 1.281–2.141), and schizophrenia (aOR: 6.884, 95% CI: 3.294–11.492) compared to people who had never had a stroke. Conclusion: The findings in our study suggest that individuals with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and alcohol use disorder may be at a higher risk for ischemic stroke and exhibit more severe symptoms. We believe that the first step toward creating beneficial preventative and treatment interventions is determining individuals with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or alcohol use disorder, assessing their risk of ischemic stroke, developing more integrated treatments, and closely monitoring the long-term outcome in the event of an ischemic stroke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many mental disorders (MD) share common etiology, fuelling debates about the specificity of clinical categories and whether the presence of specific risk factors (RF) can distinguish among them. The study of developmental language disorder (DLD), more specifically, has been further hindered by a lack of consensus regarding its definition. These limitations increase the risk of under-detection and lifelong consequences for affected children. This paper aims (1) to document which individual RF allow differentiating DLD from other MD and (2) to compare the cumulative RF between children with DLD versus other MD. This case-control design study used medical records of a psychiatric sample of 795 preschoolers (mean age 4:11, 75% boys). A logistic regression measured the predictive value of potential RF on DLD. Later first sentences, maternal immigration and family history of language delay were identified as significant in explaining 30% of the variance for DLD diagnosis. An ANCOVA revealed that children with DLD were exposed to a significantly higher number of RF than were children with other MD. Public health policies informed with the knowledge of specific RF associated with DLD, and their cumulative impact, could improve early detection and reduce the cascade of negative consequences associated with DLD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dysarthria, aphasia and executive processes have been examined for their role in producing impaired communicative competence post traumatic brain injury (TBI). Less understood is the role of emotional dysregulation, that is, apathy and disinhibition, and social cognition, that is, reading and interpreting social cues. Methods & Procedures: In this study, we examined 49 adults with moderate to severe TBI and 18 neurologically healthy adults. We hypothesised that apathy and disinhibition would predict communication outcomes as would social cognition. We also predicted that apathy and disinhibition would influence social cognition. Communication outcomes were measured by the La Trobe Communication Questionnaire (LCQ) and the Social Skills Questionnaire‐TBI (SSQ‐TBI). Apathy and disinhibition were measured by the Frontal Systems Behavior Scale (FrSBe). We measured four aspects of social cognition: emotion perception and theory of mind using The Awareness of Social Inference Test (TASIT) and the Complex Audio‐Visual Evaluation of Affect Test (CAVEAT), empathy using the Questionnaire of Cognitive and Affective Empathy (QCAE) and the Balanced Emotional Empathy Scale (BEES), and alexithymia using the Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS‐20) and the Bermond–Vorst Alexithymia Questionnaire. Outcomes & Results: Consistent with predictions, the LCQ and SSQ‐TBI were associated with disinhibition and the LCQ was also associated with apathy. The LCQ was associated with the full range of social cognition constructs although the SSQ‐TBI was not. Finally, apathy and disinhibition predicted a number of social cognition measures. Conclusions and Implications: These results are discussed in relation to understanding the nature of communication disorders following TBI and how they are measured, as well as the interrelation between emotion dysregulation and social cognition. What this study adds: What is already known on this subject: The role of emotional dysregulation and social cognition in producing impaired communicative competence post traumatic brain injury (TBI) is not well understood. Although most adults with severe TBI have minimal or possibly no language impairment, they often struggle with functional communication in everyday situations. Many have been reported to be overtalkative, insensitive, childish and self‐centred, displaying an inappropriate level of self‐disclosure and making tangential and irrelevant comments. Conversely, some speakers with TBI have been noted to have impoverished communication, producing little language either spontaneously or in response to the speaker's questions and prompts. What this paper adds to existing knowledge: We found that both apathy and disinhibition were strongly associated with the Latrobe Communication Questionnaire both empirically and conceptually, despite the LCQ being developed from a different, pragmatic orientation. Disinhibition was also associated with the Social Skills Questionnaire for TBI. We also found that poor social cognition scores predicted communication difficulties. Finally, we found that behavioural dysregulation itself, i.e., both apathy and disinhibition, predicted poor social cognition. What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this work?: Our findings highlight the central role that apathy and disinhibition play in both communication and social cognition. These insights point to the importance of remediation to target behavioural and autonomic dysregulation as a means to improve everyday social function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patients with right hemisphere damage (RHD) may exhibit mild unilateral spatial neglect (USN), which is difficult to detect in general assessments performed during driving rehabilitation. We compared driving simulator performance, practical driving performance, and neuropsychological test results between patients with RHD who were able and unable to return to driving to predict driving fitness based on driving simulator performance. This unmatched case-control study included 29 patients with RHD who were able (return-to-driving group, n = 16) and unable (non-return-to-driving group, n = 13) to return to driving. Patient demographics, motor function, attention, driving simulator performance (participants' reaction time and rate to green lamps appearing in any of the three displays and average lane position), and practical driving performance were compared between the groups. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed to examine the predictive performance of driving fitness in reaction rate and paper-and-pencil tests. The non-return-to-driving group had a significantly lower reaction rate than the return-to-driving group (p = 0.027; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0–7; r = 0.407). No significant difference in reaction time or lane position in either the left or right lane during driving simulation was observed. ROC analysis of the reaction rate in the driving simulator task showed sensitivity of 0.692, specificity of 0.812, and area under the curve of 0.738 [95% CI, 0.541–0.935]. Decreases in reaction rates during simulated driving assessments are associated with an inability to resume driving in patients with RHD. Such assessments may aid in predicting fitness for driving in these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]