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Introduction. Breast cancer is currently the most frequently detected cancer in women and the primary cause of cancer‐related deaths globally. The incidence of breast cancer has significantly increased in countries across sub‐Saharan Africa, counting Ethiopia. There are multiple determinants of breast cancer, a few of these can be changeable whereas others are not. Evidence suggests that breastfeeding, which is a changeable determinant, reduces breast cancer risk. However, there is a lack of evidence specifically linking the duration of breastfeeding to breast cancer risk. To date, no study has been conducted on the association between the duration of breastfeeding and the likelihood of breast cancer among Ethiopian women. Objective. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between breastfeeding duration and breast cancer risk in Ethiopian mothers who had breastfed, taking into account other significant determinants. Methods. A hospital‐based case‐control study was carried out in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia, involving 203 women (70 cases and 133 controls). Face‐to‐face interviews were performed using a standardized, validated questionnaire that assessed various sociodemographic, reproductive, lifestyle, and dietary characteristics. Differences between cases and controls were evaluated using the chi‐square test. The associations among factors were examined through bivariate and multivariable binary logistic regression, with results presented as odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals. Results. The multivariable investigation revealed that an inverse relationship between breastfeeding duration and breast cancer risk. Mothers who breastfed for a longer period had a 93% lower risk of breast cancer (AOR = 0.07; 95% CI: 0.021–0.21) compared to those who breastfed for a shorter duration. Younger mothers had a 95% lower likelihood of developing breast cancer (AOR = 0.05; 95% CI: 0.003–0.91) than older mothers. Additionally, mothers with sedentary behaviour were 10.53 times more likely to develop breast cancer (AOR = 10.53; 95% CI: 5.21–21.36) than those who were moderately or highly active. Mothers who experienced chest therapy were 6.43 times more likely to develop breast cancer (AOR = 6.43; 95% CI: 3.20–13.90) compared to those who had not. Conclusions. Interventions such as breastfeeding counselling and promoting the recommended duration of breastfeeding are crucial in minimizing the risk of breast cancer. Enhancing physical activity should also be viewed as a vital approach for lowering breast cancer risk. Additionally, healthcare professionals need to limit exposure to chest radiation therapy to reduce the likelihood of breast cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: 3-Hydroxybutyrate, also called β-hydroxybutyrate, is a significant constituent of ketone bodies. Previous observational and experimental studies have suggested that ketogenic diet, especially 3-hydroxybutyrate, may have a protective effect against cardiovascular disease. However, the relationship between ketone bodies, especially 3-hydroxybutyrate, and aortic dissection remains uncertain. Materials and methods: Publicly accessible data from genome-wide association study (GWAS) was utilized to obtain information on ketone bodies, including 3-hydroxybutyrate, acetoacetate and acetone as exposure respectively, while GWAS data on aortic dissection was used as outcome. Subsequently, two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was conducted to examine the potential relationship between ketone bodies and aortic dissection. Then, reverse and multivariate Mendelian randomization analyses were performed. Additionally, sensitivity tests were conducted to assess the robustness of MR study. Results: The inverse-variance weighted (IVW) method of Mendelian randomization analysis of gene prediction observed a negative correlation between 3-hydroxybutyrate and risk of aortic dissection (OR 0.147, 95% CI 0.053–0.410). Furthermore, consistent findings were obtained through the implementation of the weighted median, simple mode, Mendelian randomization-Egger (MR-Egger), and weighted mode methods. After adjusting acetoacetate (OR 0.143, 95% CI 0.023-0.900) or acetone (OR 0.100, 95% CI 0.025–0.398), MR analysis of gene prediction still observed a negative correlation between 3-hydroxybutyrate and risk of aortic dissection. No indications of heterogeneity or pleiotropy among the SNPs were detected. Conclusion: The findings from the MR analysis demonstrated that genetically predicted 3-hydroxybutyrate exhibits a protective effect against aortic dissection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Telemedicine represents an important strategy to facilitate access to medication abortion (MAB) procedures, reduces distance barriers and expands coverage to underserved communities. The aim is evaluating the self-managed MAB (provided through telemedicine as the sole intervention or in comparison to in-person care) in pregnant people at up to 12 weeks of pregnancy. Methods: A literature search was conducted using electronic databases: MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane (Central Register of Controlled Trials and Database of Systematic Reviews), LILACS, SciELO, and Google Scholar. The search was based on the Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome, and Study Design (PICOS) framework, and was not restricted to any years of publication, and studies could be published in English or Spanish. Study screening and selection, risk of bias assessment, and data extraction were performed by peer reviewers. Risk of bias was evaluated with RoB 2.0 and ROBIS-I. A narrative and descriptive synthesis of the results was conducted. Meta-analyses with random-effects models were performed using Review Manager version 5.4 to calculate pooled risk differences, along with their individual 95% confidence intervals. The rate of evidence certainty was based on GRADE recommendations. Results: 21 articles published between 2011 and 2022 met the inclusion criteria. Among them, 20 were observational studies, and 1 was a randomized clinical trial. Regarding the risk of bias, 5 studies had a serious risk, 15 had a moderate risk, and 1 had an undetermined risk. In terms of the type of intervention, 7 compared telemedicine to standard care. The meta-analysis of effectiveness revealed no statistically significant differences between the two modalities of care (RD = 0.01; 95%CI 0.00, 0.02). Our meta-analyses show that there were no significant differences in the occurrence of adverse events or in patient satisfaction when comparing the two methods of healthcare delivery. Conclusion: Telemedicine is an effective and viable alternative for MAB, similar to standard care. The occurrence of complications was low in both forms of healthcare delivery. Telemedicine services are an opportunity to expand access to safe abortion services. Plain English summary: Globally, unsafe abortion causes 47,000 deaths and 5 million sexual and reproductive dysfunctions in young pregnant people due to complications of the procedure. This practice is related to barriers to accessing safe abortion services secondary to health system limitations and inequities in the distribution of resources. Telemedicine has proven to be an efficient care alternative to reduce distancing gaps, decrease waiting time and rationalize the costs derived from the procedure. Consequently, several health systems in the world use this model with differences in treatment schemes, weeks of gestation, pregnancy confirmation methods and measurement of reported outcomes. For this reason, evaluating the effectiveness and safety of self-managed medication abortion (MAB) by telemedicine is a support for decision makers who consider implementing or expanding remote care services. This systematic review integrated studies that evaluated MAB only by Telemedicine or in comparison with standard care on pregnant people with 12 weeks gestation or less. Available studies until January 2023 were chosen. Screening and selection of studies, data extraction, and risk of bias assessment were performed by expert reviewers. Aspects such as the effectiveness, safety, and satisfaction of the procedure, among other outcomes, were reviewed. A narrative and descriptive synthesis was carried out, as well as several meta-analyses of the differences in risks between Telemedicine and in-person care. The meta-analysis of studies comparing telemedicine care with standard services reveals that the type of care provided does not affect the effectiveness and safety of MAB, nor does it affect user satisfaction, follow-up, or medication adherence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Information on the influences of daily eating frequency (DEF) and nighttime fasting duration (NFD) on biological aging is minimal. Our study investigated the potential associations of DEF and NFD with accelerated aging. Methods: Out of 24212 participants in NHANES 2003–2010 and 2015–2018, 4 predicted age metrics [homeostatic dysregulation (HD), Klemera–Doubal method (KDM), phenoAge (PA), and allostatic load (AL)] were computed based on 12 blood chemistry parameters. Utilizing 24-h dietary recall, DEF was measured by the frequency of eating occurrences, while NFD was determined by assessing the timing of the initial and final meals throughout the day. Weighted multivariate linear regression models and restricted cubic spline (RCS) were utilized to examine the associations. Results: Compared to DEF of ≤ 3.0 times, subjects with DEF ≥ 4.6 times demonstrated lower KDM residual [β: -0.57, 95% confidence-interval (CI): (-0.97, -0.17)] and PA residual [β: -0.47, 95% CI: (-0.69, -0.25)]. In comparison to NFD between 10.1 and 12.0 h, individuals with NFD ≤ 10.0 h were at higher HD [β: 0.03, 95% CI: (0.01, 0.04)], KDM residual [β: 0.34, 95% CI: (0.05, 0.63)], and PA residual [β: 0.38, 95% CI: (0.18, 0.57)]. Likewise, those with NFD ≥ 14.1 h also had higher HD [β: 0.02, 95% CI: (0.01, 0.04)] and KDM residual [β: 0.33, 95% CI: (0.03, 0.62)]. The results were confirmed by the dose–response relationships of DEF and NFD with predicted age metrics. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and globulin (Glo) were acknowledged as implicated in and mediating the relationships. Conclusions: DEF below 3.0 times and NFD less than 10.0 or more than 14.1 h were independently associated with higher predicted age metrics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Angiography is associated with anxiety, stress, and changes in patients' vital signs. The role of the liaison nurse is to bridge gaps and solve problems between departments, thereby preventing the occurrence of undesired complications during patient transfers. Proper preparation of patients by the liaison nurse may lead to an improvement in the hemodynamic status of patients. The present study was conducted to investigate the effect of liaison nurse on hemodynamic status during transfer process to angiography. Method: This randomized controlled trial was conducted from December 2019 to March 2020 on 62 patients who were candidates for elective angiography at Imam Reza Hospital in Mashhad. Participants were selected using a convenience sampling method and then randomly assigned to either the control or intervention group using a lottery system. In the intervention group, patients benefited from the presence of a liaison nurse from the moment the transfer order was issued by the doctor. Tools used included a demographic information questionnaire and a hemodynamic signs checklist. Data were analyzed using SPSS 25 with independent T-tests, paired T-tests, Wilcoxon, Mann-Whitney test, chi-squared, and Fisher's exact test. Result: Following the intervention, the mean systolic blood pressure, heart rate, and respiratory rate in the intervention group were found to be significantly lower than those in the control group (p < 0.05). In contrast, the mean body temperature, diastolic blood pressure and the percentage of arterial blood oxygen saturation did not exhibit a statistically significant difference between the two groups (p > 0.05). Conclusion: The liaison nurse role emerges as a valuable strategy for enhancing patients' hemodynamic stability, and its implementation can have a positive impact on patient outcomes in hospital settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Nurses' competence in clinical research is a key element in promoting high quality in the discipline of nursing, and the ethical aspects of research are of paramount importance. Therefore, nurses need to have a comprehensive understanding of the ethics associated with clinical research, which is an integral part of safeguarding the safety of subjects, ensuring the quality of nursing clinical research, and improving the ethical standardization of clinical research. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted on 304 nurses in a province of China between April 2023 and September 2023, utilizing convenience sampling. The survey questionnaire comprised two sections: a general information form and a questionnaire focusing on nurses' knowledge and attitudes towards clinical research ethics. Data analysis encompassed descriptive statistics, t-tests, one-way ANOVA, and multiple linear regression. Results: A total of 320 questionnaires were distributed, of which 304 were valid. The ethical attitude of nurses in clinical research was better (91.17 ± 15.96), while the cognitive score was lower (63.08 ± 12.30). The results of multiple linear regression analysis showed that degree, grade of hospital (I, II or III), technical title, number of clinical projects chaired in one year and whether the respondent has ever participated in an ethics training were the five factors influencing the knowledge of clinical research ethics (F = 9.341, P < 0.001, R2 = 18.0%); degree, grade of hospital (I, II or III), technical title, number of clinical research projects chaired in one year, whether the hospital has an ethics committee and whether the respondent has ever participated in an ethics training were the six factors affecting ethical attitudes towards clinical research (F = 8.919, P < 0.001, R2 = 17.3%). Conclusions: Nurses in a Chinese province scored low on the cognitive dimension of clinical research ethics, but their attitudes were at a relative high level, with many influencing factors. Degree, technical title, and grade of hospital, all affect cognitive and attitude scores. It is also worth noting that whether the hospital has an ethics committee affects the attitude scores, but has no effect on the cognitive scores.Nursing administrators and educators should consider providing effective and targeted strategies (e.g., ongoing training, scholarly seminars, and scholarly exchanges) to enhance nurses' knowledge and competence in clinical research ethics to protect subject rights as well as to ensure the quality of clinical research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/aim: In the current study, we aimed to assess the association of carbohydrate quality index (CQI) with the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in Iranian adults. Methods: This case-control study was conducted on 225 newly diagnosed NAFLD patients and 450 controls, aged 20–60 years. A food frequency questionnaire was used to calculate the CQI and its components, including fiber intake, glycemic index, whole grains: total grains ratio, and solid carbohydrates: total carbohydrates ratio. Multivariable logistic regression was used to estimate the odds ratio (OR) of NAFLD across the tertile of CQI and its components. Results: The participant's mean ± SD of body mass index and age were 26.8 ± 4.3 kg/m2 and 38.1 ± 8.8 years, respectively. The median (interquartile) CQI score in participants of the case and control groups was 20 (15–25) and 23 (18–28), respectively. In the multivariable-adjusted model, the risk of NAFLD decreased significantly across the tertiles of the CQI [(OR: 0.20; %95CI: 0.11–0.39), Ptrend <0.001)]. Also, the odds of NAFLD decreased across tertiles of solid carbohydrates to total carbohydrates ratio [(OR: 0.39; 95%CI: 0.22–0.69), Ptrend <0.001)]. However, a high dietary glycemic index (GI) was associated with increased odds of NAFLD [(OR:7.47; 95%CI: 3.89–14.33, Ptrend<0.001)]. There was no significant relationship between other CQI components, including fiber intake and whole grain/total grains and the risk of NAFLD. Conclusions: Our results revealed that a diet with a high quality of carbohydrates, characterized by higher intakes of solid carbohydrates, whole grain, and low GI carbohydrates, can be related to a reduced risk of NAFLD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: New daily persistent headache (NDPH) is a continuous, unremitting headache from onset that yields suboptimal results with traditional medicines. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has emerged as a promising non-invasive treatment for other headache disorders, such as migraine, and neuromodulation has not been well-studied in NDPH. The objective of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of rTMS in reducing the frequency and severity of headaches, and associated anxiety and depressive symptoms in NDPH patients. Methods: This was an open label prospective, single arm, interventional pilot study conducted between October 2022 and September 2023. All eligible participants received 10 Hz rTMS (600 pulses, 10 trains), delivered to the left prefrontal cortex for three consecutive days. The post-rTMS headache severity was recorded weekly for four weeks and headache free days/functional disability, PHQ-9, and GAD-7 scores at the end of four weeks and compared with pre-rTMS parameters. The primary outcome was defined by ≥ 50% reduction in headache severity on Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score, decrease in headache days from the baseline and secondary outcome was ≥ 6 point reduction in HIT-6 score at 4 weeks. Results: Fifty NDPH patients (mean [SD] age, 35.06 [13.91] years; 31 females [62%]) participated in this study. Thirty-five patients (70%) reported ≥ 50% improvement in pain severity (p-value < 0.001), with a mean reduction of 10.84 (4.88) headache days per 28 days from a baseline of 28 headache days (p-value < 0.001). Thirty-eight patients (76%) reported a ≥ 6 point's reduction in HIT score at 4 weeks. Maximum improvement in the above parameters was observed in NDPH patients with chronic migraine. Two patients reported intolerance to the sound of the rTMS. The median (IQR) PHQ-9 and GAD-7 scores reduced from 11.5(3.75,20) to 7(2,15) (p-value < 0.001) and 10(3,14) to 5.5(0,9) (p-value < 0.001) respectively. Conclusion: rTMS was well tolerated and effective in reducing pain severity, headache days and headache related disability, depressive and anxiety symptoms. Trial registration: CTRI/2023/05/053247. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. This research aimed to validate the Informal Supporter Readiness Inventory (ISRI) for evaluating the preparedness of informal supporters, in an Australian sample, to provide assistance in the context of intimate partner violence (IPV). Method. The ISRI's four distinct factors were each assessed with separate confirmatory factor analyses (CFA). Reliability was calculated using Cronbach's alpha values, and test‐retest reliability was evaluated using intraclass correlation coefficients. Additionally, the ISRI's validity was assessed through Pearson's correlations with both convergent and divergent measures. Results. The CFAs supported the four distinct factors of the ISRI: normative, individual, situational‐emotion, and situational‐assessment. The measure exhibited good‐to‐excellent internal consistency across these factors and good test‐retest reliability at four weeks. Convergent validity was supported by a strong positive correlation with the Intent to Help Friends Scale, while its weak association with the Generic Job Satisfaction Scale supported divergent validity. Discussion. The ISRI has emerged as a practical instrument with relevance to certain Australian sociocultural dynamics, offering utility in both research and clinical settings. The ISRI supports a network‐oriented approach to IPV survivor support, assisting the alliance between formal and informal support mechanisms. Future research should focus on broadening the ISRI's applicability by assessing its effectiveness across diverse Australian populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Improvements in oxygenation and lung mechanics with prone position (PP) in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) are inconstant. The objectives of the study were (i) to identify baseline variables, including the recruitment-to-inflation ratio (R/I), associated with a positive response to PP in terms of oxygenation (improvement of the ratio of arterial oxygen partial pressure over the inspired oxygen fraction (PaO2/FiO2) ≥ 20 mmHg) and lung mechanics; (ii) to evaluate whether the response to the previous PP session is associated with the response to the next session. Methods: In this prospective, observational, single-center study in patients who underwent PP for ARDS due to COVID-19, respiratory variables were assessed just before PP and at the end of the session. Respiratory variables included mechanical ventilation settings and respiratory mechanics variables, including R/I, an estimate of the potential for lung recruitment compared to lung overinflation. Results: In 50 patients, 201 PP sessions lasting 19 ± 3 h were evaluated. Neuromuscular blockades were used in 116 (58%) sessions. The PaO2/FiO2 ratio increased from 109 ± 31 mmHg to 165 ± 65 mmHg, with an increase ≥ 20 mmHg in 142 (71%) sessions. In a mixed effect logistic regression, only pre-PP PaO2/FiO2 (OR 1.12 (95% CI [1.01–1.24])/every decrease of 10 mmHg, p = 0.034) in a first model and improvement in oxygenation at the previous PP session (OR 3.69 (95% CI [1.27–10.72]), p = 0.017) in a second model were associated with an improvement in oxygenation with PP. The R/I ratio (n = 156 sessions) was 0.53 (0.30–0.76), separating lower- and higher-recruiters. Whereas PaO2/FiO2 improved to the same level in both subgroups, driving pressure and respiratory system compliance improved only in higher-recruiters (from 14 ± 4 to 12 ± 4 cmH2O, p = 0.027, and from 34 ± 11 to 38 ± 13 mL/cmH2O, respectively, p = 0.014). Conclusions: A lower PaO2/FiO2 at baseline and a positive O2-response at the previous PP session are associated with a PP-induced improvement in oxygenation. In higher-recruiters, lung mechanics improved along with oxygenation. Benefits of PP could thus be greater in these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Biology-guided radiotherapy (BgRT) is a novel radiation delivery approach utilizing fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) activity on positron emission tomography (PET) imaging performed in real-time to track and direct RT. Our institution recently acquired the RefleXion X1 BgRT system and sought to assess the feasibility of targeting metastatic sites in various organs, including the liver. However, in order for BgRT to function appropriate, adequate contrast in FDG activity between the tumor and the background tissue, referred to as the normalized SUV (NSUV), is necessary for optimal functioning of BgRT. Methods: We reviewed the charts of 50 lung adenocarcinoma patients with liver metastases. The following variables were collected: SUVmax and SUVmean for each liver metastasis, SUVmean and SUVmax at 5 and 10 mm radially from the lesion, and NSUV at 5 mm and 10 mm (SUVmax of the liver metastasis divided by SUV mean at 5 mm at 10 mm respectively). Results: 82 measurable liver metastases were included in the final analysis. The average SUVbackground of liver was 2.26 (95% confidence interval [CI] 2.17–2.35); average SUVmean for liver metastases was 5.31 (95% CI 4.87–5.75), and average SUVmax of liver metastases was 9.19 (95% CI 7.59–10.78). The average SUVmean at 5 mm and 10 mm radially from each lesion were 3.08 (95% CI 3.00-2.16) and 2.60 (95% CI 2.52–2.68), respectively. The mean NSUV at 5 mm and 10 mm were 3.13 (95% CI 2.53–3.73) and 3.69 (95% CI 3.00-4.41) respectively. Furthermore, 90% of lesions had NSUV greater than 1.45 at 5 mm and greater than 1.77 at 10 mm. Conclusions: This is the first study to comprehensively characterize FDG contrast between the liver tumor and background, referred to as NSUV. Due to the high background SUV normally found in the liver, this work will be valuable for guiding optimization of BgRT for treating liver metastases in the future using the RefleXion® X1 and potentially other similar BgRT platforms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Psoriasis is a common immune‐mediated papulosquamous inflammatory skin disease characterized by well‐demarcated, erythematous silvery scaly plaques. Prevalence rates of psoriasis showed a worldwide variation and have been reported to range between 0.09% and 5.1%. It has been associated with several intrinsic as well as extrinsic factors and has a detrimental effect on health‐related quality of life. Studies on the burden, factors associated with it, and quality of life of psoriasis are limited in the study area. Objectives. To assess the magnitude, factors associated with it, and quality of life of psoriasis patients. Methods. Institution‐based cross‐sectional study was conducted among patients who attend dermatology clinics at Tibebe Ghion comprehensive specialized and Addis Alem primary hospitals from June 8 to September 5, 2022. Systematic random sampling was applied to select study participants until the sample size (318) was fulfilled. A structured interviewer‐administered questionnaire was used to collect data. Collected data were coded and entered into EPI data version 3.1 and then exported to SPSS version 27 for analysis. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression analysis were done. Result. The mean age of study participants was 22.5 with a standard deviation (SD) of 18.2 years. The proportion of psoriasis was 5.3% with a 95% CI (3.1%, 8.4%). Stressful life events (AOR = 3.32, 95% CI (1.12, 9.86)) and alcohol consumption (AOR = 3.73, 95% CI (1.03, 13.51)) were significantly associated with psoriasis. Seven (41.2%) psoriasis patients had a large effect on their quality of life. The mean dermatology quality of life index (DLQI) was 9.82. Conclusion. The proportion of psoriasis in this study was comparable to earlier international and Ethiopian studies, but greater than studies from other African countries. Stressful life events and alcohol consumption were significantly associated with psoriasis. The majority of psoriasis patients had a large negative effect on their quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Over time, global health systems have witnessed significant improvements in the delivery and coverage of healthcare services. Nevertheless, the increasing prominence of non-communicable diseases remains a persistent challenge. Diabetes is one such non-communicable chronic disease that poses a threat with respect to both mortality and morbidity. This study investigated the socio-economic determinants and inequalities in the prevalence of diabetes in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia according to data collected from the 2018 Saudi Family Health Survey conducted by the General Authority for Statistics. Methods: The analysis was limited to a sample of 11,528 respondents aged ≥ 18 years, selected across all 13 regions of Saudi Arabia, with complete responses for all variables of interest. Socio-economic determinants in diabetes prevalence were explored with univariate, bivariate, and multivariate logistic regression analyses. Furthermore, inequalities were visualised and quantitatively estimated according to construction of a concentration curve and calculation of the concentration index. Results: The prevalence of diabetes among the 11,528 respondents was 11.20%. Age, education, income, and residence area were significant determinants of diabetes prevalence, with a greater risk of diabetes found in older participants (odds ratio [OR]: 12.262, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 9.820–15.313, p < 0.01) compared to younger participants. Inequality analysis showed a negative education-based concentration index (–0.235, p < 0.01), indicating that diabetes prevalence is concentrated among people with relatively less formal education. For males, the income-based concentration index was significantly positive, whereas the education-based concentration index was significantly negative, indicating a greater concentration of diabetes among Saudi men with higher incomes and less education. Conclusion: These findings emphasize the need to prioritize policies and strategies for diabetes prevention and control with considerations of the socio-economic inequalities in prevalence. Key areas of focus should include improving education levels across all regions, raising awareness about diabetes and implementing nutritional interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The cost-effectiveness of NALIRIFOX as a potential new standard of care for patients with metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (mPDAC) has yet to be established. Our objective was to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of NALIRIFOX vs. nab-paclitaxel and gemcitabine in this indication from the perspective of U.S. public payers. Methods: A partitioned survival model was constructed from the perspective of U.S. public payers, drawing on baseline patient characteristics and vital clinical data from the NAPOLI-3 trial. Costs and utilities were sourced from publicly accessible databases and literature. A lifetime horizon was applied, with an annual discount rate of 3%. We calculated and compared cumulative costs, life years, quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), and incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICER). To evaluate the model's robustness, sensitivity analyses, scenario analyses, and subgroup analyses were carried out. Additionally, a price simulation for the costly liposomal irinotecan was conducted to inform the pricing strategy at the given willingness to pay (WTP) threshold. Results: In the base-case analysis, NALIRIFOX provided an additional 0.29 QALYs with an ICER of $206,340.69 /QALY compared to nab-paclitaxel and gemcitabine, indicating it is not cost-effective at a $150,000/QALY threshold. Sensitivity analysis showed the model was most sensitive to the costs of liposomal irinotecan, capecitabine, and post-progression care. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis indicated a 17.66% probability of NALIRIFOX being cost-effective at $150,000/QALY, rising to 47.48% at $200,000/QALY. Pricing simulations suggested NALIRIFOX could become cost-effective at $150,000/QALY if the price of irinotecan liposome drops to $53.24/mg (a 14.8% reduction). Conclusions: NALIRIFOX may not be cost-effective at its current price as a first-line treatment for patients with mPDAC in the long term. The cost of liposomal irinotecan has the greatest impact. It may become cost-effective only if its cost is reduced by 14.8%, with a WTP threshold of $150,000 /QALY. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) have an increased risk of vascular complications. Despite the rise in the prevalence of T2D and its complications throughout the globe, there is a paucity of data regarding the prevalence and determinants of vascular complications of T2D in Ethiopia. Hence, this study aimed to assess the prevalence, patterns, and determinants of the microvascular and macrovascular complications of T2D among adult patients attending a teaching hospital in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Methods: A retrospective study was done by reviewing the electronic health records of adult patients with T2D attending the general medical and endocrine referral clinics of Yekatit 12 Hospital Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from June 1, 2023, to November 30, 2023. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), version 25, was used to analyze the data. Descriptive analysis was used to summarize the sociodemographic, clinical, and laboratory profiles as well as the patterns of vascular complications of T2D. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression models were fitted, and the crude odds ratio (COR) and adjusted odds ratio (AOR), together with the 95% confidence interval (CI), were computed to identify the determinants of microvascular and macrovascular complications of T2D. Results: A total of 272 patients with T2D were included in this study; 50.5% were females, and the mean (± standard deviation) age was 56.3 ± 12.8 years. The majority of patients (62.5%) had diabetes for ≥ 5 years. More than half (51.5%) had poor glycemic control with glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) value of ≥ 7%. The overall prevalence of vascular complications was 39%. The prevalence of microvascular complications was 23.5%, the most common being neuropathy (11.8%), and the prevalence of macrovascular complications was 21%, the most common being coronary artery disease (12.1%). The determinants of microvascular complications were age ≥ 60 years (AOR = 2.25, 95% CI: 1.17, 4.33), diabetes duration of ≥ 5 years (5–10 years [AOR = 3.13, 95% CI: 1.37, 7.18], and > 10 years [AOR = 3.88, 95% CI: 1.66, 9.06], and HbA1c value of ≥ 7% (AOR = 2.21, 95% CI: 1.14, 4.28). The odds of developing macrovascular complications were higher with diabetes duration of ≥ 5 to 10 years (AOR = 2.89, 95% CI: 1.37, 6.12) as compared with diabetes duration of < 5 years. Conclusions: This study demonstrated a high prevalence of microvascular and macrovascular complications in adult patients with T2D. Older age, prolonged duration of diabetes, and poor glycemic control were identified as the determinants for the development of microvascular complications of T2D, while prolonged duration of diabetes was the determining factor for the development of macrovascular complications. Hence, targeted initiatives are required to enhance the prevention and early detection of vascular complications of T2D in resource-limited countries like Ethiopia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The systemic immunity-inflammation index (SII) is a newly developed biomarker that provides an integrated measure of inflammation in the body. We aim to evaluate the relationship between SII and body fat distribution. Methods: Adults from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011–2018 were included. The SII was computed using lymphocyte (LC), neutrophil (NC), and platelet (PC) counts as its components. Body fat distribution was assessed by (total, android, gynoid) percentage fat, total abdominal fat area, subcutaneous adipose tissue area, visceral adipose tissue area, and the ratio of visceral to subcutaneous adipose tissue area (V/S ratio). Multivariable weighted linear regression and subgroup analysis were use to examine the relationships between fat distribution and SII. Restricted cubic splines (RCS) and threshold effect analysis were used to examine analyze nonlinear associations. Results: After exclusions, a total of 11,192 adults with a weighted mean age of 38.46 ± 0.26 years were studied. In multivariable weighted linear regression, each level increase in log2SII was associated with increased of 0.23 SDs total percentage fat (95% CI = 0.03, 0.43) and 0.26 SDs android percentage fat (95% CI = 0.06, 0.47). Besides, the subgroup analysis showed that the positive association between SII and android percentage fat was mainly among obese individuals (BMI > 30 kg/m2) and non-obese individuals without DM or hypertension. Meanwhile, the relationship between SII and the V/S ratio was found to be significant in the female subgroup, the obese subgroup, individuals with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and those without diabetes mellitus. Finally, SII exhibited an inverted U-shaped relationship with total percentage fat, android percent fat and total abdominal fat. Accordingly, threshold effect analysis indicated a positive association between lower SII levels and total percentage fat, android percentage fat and total abdominal fat area. Conclusions: In the nationwide study, it was observed that the SII exhibited a significant correlation with higher levels of body fat, specifically android fat. This association was particularly noticeable within specific subgroups of the population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Serum lipids are highly heritable and play an important role in cardiovascular and metabolic health. However, the relationship between high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels is unclear. This study aims to explore the association between serum 25(OH)D levels and HDL-C in adults aged 20–59. Methods: This cross-sectional study was based on data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess the relationship between HDL-C and serum 25(OH)D, with further analysis using smooth spline fitting and generalized additive models. Results: A total of 28,084 adults were included in the study. After adjusting for multiple variables, we found a significant positive correlation between HDL-C and serum 25(OH)D levels (β = 8.3, 95% CI: 7.24–9.35, p < 0.001). Stratified subgroup analysis by gender showed that females consistently exhibited a positive correlation (β = 10.12, 95% CI: 9.07–11.18, p < 0.001), while males demonstrated an inverted U-shaped relationship between HDL-C and serum 25(OH)D. Conclusion: In the population aged 20–59, HDL-C levels are significantly associated with serum 25(OH)D levels. Clinically, simultaneous monitoring of HDL-C and vitamin D is recommended to better assess and manage cardiovascular health. Increasing vitamin D intake should be considered, especially for males with low HDL-C levels, to prevent related health issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects 6–12% of United States women of reproductive age. Because women with PCOS are at an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, clinical practice guidelines from a number of organizations (e.g. American Diabetes Association, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, US Preventive Services Task Force) recommend that individuals with PCOS are routinely screened for diabetes. Guidelines further indicate that an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) should be used for diabetes screening in women with PCOS as opposed to an A1C or fasting plasma glucose test. The purpose of this study is two-fold: 1) to estimate rates of diabetes screening among a nationwide sample of commercially insured women with PCOS and 2) to report the percentage of women screened using each test (OGTT, A1C, fasting plasma glucose) among those who were screened. Methods: We used the MarketScan Commercial Claims database (2011–2019) to identify a sample of women aged 18–64 years with PCOS who were free from diabetes at baseline and had ≥ 5 years of continuous enrollment in their insurance plan. PCOS was ascertained using International Classification of Disease diagnosis codes (ICD-9: 256.4; ICD-10: E28.2). Diabetes screening was ascertained using Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes (A1C: 8303683037; Fasting blood sugar: 82947; OGTT: 82950). Diabetes screening rates were calculated for the overall study sample as well as across subgroups defined by age, overweight/obesity, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and vascular disease. Results: In our sample of 191,110 commercially insured women with PCOS, 73.40% were screened at least once for diabetes during a five-year period. Among the women screened, 19.24% were screened using the Androgen Excess Society (AES)-recommended OGTT, 61.58% were screened using A1C, and 23.37% were screened using fasting blood sugar. Conclusions: In a sample of commercially insured individuals spanning the timeframe 2011–2019, nearly 75% of women with PCOS complied with the ACOG screening guidelines for diabetes. Although OGTT is recommended as the preferred screening tool for women with PCOS it was less commonly used than A1C and fasting blood sugar tests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Adverse events of the fractured vertebra (AEFV) post-percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKP) can lead to recurrent pain and neurological damage, which considerably affect the prognosis of patients and the quality of life. This study aimed to analyze the risk factors of AEFV and develop and select the optimal risk prediction model for AEFV to provide guidance for the prevention of this condition and enhancement of clinical outcomes. Methods: This work included 383 patients with primary osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture (OVCF) who underwent PKP. The patients were grouped based on the occurrence of AEFV postsurgery, and data were collected. Group comparisons and correlation analysis were conducted to identify potential risk factors, which were then included in the five prediction models. The performance indicators served as basis for the selection of the best model. Results: Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed the following independent risk factors for AEFV: kissing spine (odds ratio (OR) = 8.47, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.46–49.02), high paravertebral muscle fat infiltration grade (OR = 29.19, 95% CI 4.83–176.04), vertebral body computed tomography value (OR = 0.02, 95% CI 0.003–0.13, P < 0.001), and large Cobb change (OR = 5.31, 95% CI 1.77–15.77). The support vector machine (SVM) model exhibited the best performance in the prediction of the risk of AEFV. Conclusion: Four independent risk factors were identified of AEFV, and five risk prediction models that can aid clinicians in the accurate identification of high-risk patients and prediction of the occurrence of AEFV were developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims Methods Results Conclusion Registration We aimed to determine the impact of codeine rescheduling on prescribing of codeine and other opioids, with a focus on demographic and diagnoses associated with codeine prescribing before and after rescheduling of codeine to prescription‐only in February 2018.We used interrupted time series analysis (February 2016‐February 2020) and probit regression to examine prescribing of codeine and other opioids according to primary care data from 464 general practice clinics in Victoria, Australia.The rate of codeine prescribing increased in the month following rescheduling (additional 76 people/10000, 95% confidence interval [CI] 49‐103), then declined to baseline rates (slope −2.02, 95% CI 3.79, −0.25). Prescribing of other opioids did not change. Post rescheduling, females were more likely to receive codeine prescriptions compared to males (β = 0.094, 95% CI 0.08‐0.108) and those aged 70‐79 years were more likely to receive codeine compared to those aged <30 years. Those residing in the least disadvantaged areas had a greater probability of being prescribed codeine than those in more disadvantaged areas after rescheduling (β = 0.154, 95% CI 0.129‐0.179). A documented mental health diagnosis (β = 0.067, 95% CI 0.052‐0.082) or migraine diagnosis (β = 0.057, 95% CI 0.037‐0.078) was associated with increased likelihood of receiving a codeine prescription after rescheduling compared to before in contrast to those without such a diagnosis.Codeine rescheduling did not result in a sustained increase in codeine prescribing nor a change in the prescribing of other opioids. Patient factors associated with increased codeine prescribing after compared to before rescheduling included female sex, older age, migraine diagnosis and comorbid mental health conditions.EU PAS Register (EUPAS43218). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In developing countries birth asphyxia is a major cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality. Despite the implementation of various strategies and interventions to combat neonatal mortality rates, birth asphyxia remains the main public health concern in Ethiopia. Moreover, limited studies have been conducted, especially in the study area and there are no multicenter analyses available to generate evidence for action. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the burden and associated factors of birth asphyxia among newborns in the selected public hospitals of the Addis Ababa City Administration Health Bureau. Methods: Three hundred forty-three mother-child pairs who used delivery services and gave birth in the selected public hospitals were included in the study, and institution based cross sectional study design was employed. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select the study participants. A pretested, structured interviewer administered questionnaire was used to collect the data. The physician's/health care professionals diagnosis of an Apgar score less than 7 within the first five minutes of life led to the confirmation of the diagnosis of birth asphyxia. SPSS version 24 was used for analysis after the data were exported from Epi Info version 7.2. Multivariate logistic regression analysis included variables which had P-values less than 0.25 in the bivariable logistic regression analysis. The study findings were expressed using adjusted odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval, and P-value less than 0.05 was used to declare the statistical significance. Results: The magnitude of birth asphyxia was found to be 17.1% [95% CI; (13.2–21.5)] at the first 5 min. In the multivariable logistic regression analysis cord accident [AOR = 6.24: 95% CI; (1.24–31.32)], prolonged duration of labor [AOR = 2.49: 95% CI; (1.93–10.89)], and meconium-stained amniotic fluid [AOR = 3.33: 95% CI; (1.73–6.41)] were the predictors of birth asphyxia. Conclusions: The findings of this research indicate that birth asphyxia is a prevalent neonatal problem at the study area. Therefore, the Addis Ababa Health Bureau must prioritize integrated mitigation interventions targeting high-risk pregnancies to achieve national and international commitment to sustainable changes in newborn health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim Methods Results Conclusion To assess the association between Benzodiazepines (BZDs) or Z‐hypnotic use and cardiovascular diseases (CVD) incidence in residents in Beijing, China.We included 2,415,573 individuals with a prescription record for BZDs or Z‐hypnotics in the Beijing Medical Claim Data for Employees database during 2010–2017, and 8,794,356 non‐users with other prescriptions for the same period. Hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using Cox proportional risk models for 712,850 exposed and 712,850 unexposed participants who were matched 1:1 by propensity score.BZDs or Z‐hypnotics users had a higher risk of CVD than non‐users, with an HR of 1.11 (95% CI: 1.10, 1.13). Compared with non‐users, those who used them for less than 3 months had the lowest risk of CVD, and those for more than 5 years had the highest risk, with HRs of 0.50 (0.48, 0.51) and 1.78 (1.72, 1.83), respectively. The risk of CVD was relatively low in those who used only one of the long‐acting BZDs, short‐acting BZDs, or Z‐hypnotics compared to unexposed individuals. Individuals exposed to all three types of drugs had the highest risk, 2.33 (2.22, 2.44) times that of non‐users. Users below the median dose had a lower risk of CVD compared to non‐users, whereas users exceeding the median dose had an increased risk.BZD or Z‐hypnotic use in general was nominally associated with an elevated risk of CVD. However, for short‐term, single‐type, and low‐to‐moderate‐dose users, not only did this elevated risk disappear, but drug use also demonstrated a protective effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The implementation and clinical impact of machine learning–based early warning systems for patient deterioration in hospitals have not been well described. We sought to describe the implementation and evaluation of a multifaceted, real-time, machine learning–based early warning system for patient deterioration used in the general internal medicine (GIM) unit of an academic medical centre. Methods: In this nonrandomized, controlled study, we evaluated the association between the implementation of a machine learning–based early warning system and clinical outcomes. We used propensity score–based overlap weighting to compare patients in the GIM unit during the intervention period (Nov. 1, 2020, to June 1, 2022) to those admitted during the pre-intervention period (Nov. 1, 2016, to June 1, 2020). In a difference-indifferences analysis, we compared patients in the GIM unit with those in the cardiology, respirology, and nephrology units who did not receive the intervention. We retrospectively calculated system predictions for each patient in the control cohorts, although alerts were sent to clinicians only during the intervention period for patients in GIM. The primary outcome was non-palliative in-hospital death. Results: The study included 13 649 patient admissions in GIM and 8470 patient admissions in subspecialty units. Non-palliative deaths were significantly lower in the intervention period than the pre-intervention period among patients in GIM (1.6% v. 2.1%; adjusted relative risk [RR] 0.74, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.55–1.00) but not in the subspecialty cohorts (1.9% v. 2.1%; adjusted RR 0.89, 95% CI 0.63–1.28). Among high-risk patients in GIM for whom the system triggered at least 1 alert, the proportion of non-palliative deaths was 7.1% in the intervention period, compared with 10.3% in the pre-intervention period (adjusted RR 0.69, 95% CI 0.46–1.02), with no meaningful difference in subspecialty cohorts (10.4% v. 10.6%; adjusted RR 0.98, 95% CI 0.60–1.59). In the difference-indifferences analysis, the adjusted relative risk reduction for non-palliative death in GIM was 0.79 (95% CI 0.50–1.24). Interpretation: Implementing a machine learning–based early warning system in the GIM unit was associated with lower risk of non-palliative death than in the pre-intervention period. Machine learning–based early warning systems are promising technologies for improving clinical outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Primary health-care workers (PHWs) managed increased workloads and pressure during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study conducted a national survey examining burnout among PHWs at the end of the COVID-19 pandemic, and identifies related factors. By doing so, it addresses the gap in understanding the burnout situation among PHWs at a national level, taking into account urban-rural disparities. Methods: We conducted a nationwide cross-sectional survey of PHWs in China from May to October 2022, covering 31 provinces. The MBI-HSS was used to measure overall burnout and emotional exhaustion (EE), depersonalization (DP), and reduced personal accomplishment (PA). We used multivariable logistic regression to identify risk factors, and subgroup analyses to identify differences between rural and urban areas. Results: 3769 PHWs from 44 primary health-care institutions completed the survey. Overall, 16.6% reported overall burnout, and the prevalence of EE, DP, and reduced PA was 29.7%, 28.0%, and 62.9%, respectively. The prevalence of overall burnout (17.6% vs. 13.7%, P = 0.004) and EE (31.5% vs. 24.8%, P < 0.001) was higher in urban than rural areas (AOR = 1.285; 95%CI, 1.021–1.617). Job satisfaction was a protective factor against burnout in both settings. The protective factors of overall burnout, EE and DP vary between urban and rural areas. Conclusions: The Mental Health Status Questionnaire-Short Form (MSQ-SF) score functioned as a protective factor against burnout across both rural and urban locales, highlighting the intrinsic link between job satisfaction and burnout. Other influencing factors differed between urban and rural areas, so interventions should be tailored to local conditions. Rural married PHWs experienced the lower prevalence of burnout indicates the support structure may play a significant role. In urban settings, it is recommended to strategically pre-emptively stock essential supplies like PPE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Metformin plays a major part in the treatment of polycystic ovarian syndrome.Trials are being conducted to compare the effectiveness of combination of metformin with cabergoline in the treatment of hyperprolactinemia and polycystic ovarian syndrome. Objectives: The purpose of this study is to compare the effectiveness of metformin monotherapy and combination therapy with cabergoline versus metformin for the management of polycystic ovarian syndrome with hyperprolactinemia. Methodology: An extensive search up until 31 May 2024 of electronic databases (PubMed, Registry of Controlled Clinical Trials, Web of Sciences, SCOPUS) to find pertinent studies. An analysis was conducted with both observational data and randomized clinical trials. To compute the standard mean difference, weighted mean difference, odds ratio, and 95% confidence interval, RevMan (v5.3) was utilized. Primary outcomes that were assessed included body-mass index, regular menstruation, weight change, prolactin, testosterone, and dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate levels. Results: Three randomized controlled trials and 1 observational study, taking a total patient population of n = 535, were part of our final analysis. Prolactin (SMD = −3.23 95% CI: (−4.90, −1.55)) and dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate levels (SMD = −0.27 95% CI: (−0.52, −0.01)) were significantly lower in the metformin and cabergoline combination therapy group; monthly regularity was also significantly higher (OR = 3.07 95% CI: (2.09, 4.51)). Statistically, there was no significant difference in weight, body-mass index, or testosterone levels. Conclusions: In the treatment of polycystic ovarian syndrome, the combination of metformin and cabergoline significantly lowers prolactin levels and encourages regular menstrual cycles. Although metformin has the potential to suppress testosterone levels, more investigation is required to determine how combination therapy affect dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate and testosterone levels. It's interesting to note that while neither intervention had a substantial impact on weight or body-mass index, metformin and cabergoline combination therapy outperformed metformin monotherapy in terms of supporting regular menstrual cycles. Customized therapy approaches are essential, and large-scale trials involving a variety of groups are required to comprehend the safety and effectiveness of treatments. Plain language summary: Efficacy of metformin compared to metformin and cabergoline combination In this study, 2 therapies for women with high prolactin levels—a hormone associated with PCOS—were examined. Their goal was to determine which combination of metformin and cabergoline produced the best results.Observational data and randomized clinical trials were included while searching through several databases for pertinent studies. Researchers discovered that the combination of metformin and cabergoline was superior to using metformin alone in reducing prolactin and another hormone called DHEAS. The menstrual periods of women receiving the combined therapy were also more regular. However, there wasn't much difference in weight, body mass index (BMI), or testosterone levels between the 2 groups. In summary, it appears that the combination of cabergoline and metformin is a more effective way to treat the symptoms of PCOS, which include irregular periods and elevated prolactin levels. To find out how it impacts other hormones and whether it's long-term safe and effective, further research is still required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: As rates of obesity and overweight continue to increase in the UK, calorie labels have been introduced on menus as a policy option to provide information to consumers on the energy content of foods and to enable informed choices. This study tested whether the addition of calorie labels to items in a simulated food delivery platform may reduce the energy content of items selected. Methods: UK adults (n = 8,780) who used food delivery platforms were asked to use the simulated platform as they would in real life to order a meal for themselves. Participants were randomly allocated to a control condition (no calorie labels) or to one of seven intervention groups: (1) large size calorie labels adjacent to the price (LP), (2) large size label adjacent to the product name (LN), (3) small label adjacent to price (SP), (4) small label adjacent to product name (SN), (5) LP with a calorie label switch-off filter (LP + Off), (6) LP with a switch-on filter (LP + On), or, (7) LP with a summary label of the total basket energy content (LP + Sum). Regression analysis assessed the impact of calorie labels on energy content of foods selected compared to the control condition. Results: The mean energy selected in the control condition was 1408 kcal (95%CI: 93, 2719). There was a statistically significant reduction in mean energy selected in five of the seven intervention trial arms (LN labels (-60 kcal, 95%CI: -111, -6), SN (-73, 95%CI: -125, -19), LP + Off (-110, 95%CI: -161, -57), LP + On (-109, 95%CI: -159, -57), LP + Sum (-85 kcal, 95%CI: -137, -30). There was no evidence the other two conditions (LP (-33, 95%CI: -88, 24) and SP (-52, 95%CI: -105, 2)) differed from control. There was no evidence of an effect of any intervention when the analysis was restricted to participants who were overweight or obese. Conclusion: Adding calorie labels to food items in a simulated online food delivery platform reduced the energy content of foods selected in five out of seven labelling scenarios. This study provides useful information to inform the implementation of these labels in a food delivery platform context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To examine the relationship between neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), age, and mortality rates after emergency surgery. Methods: In this observational study, a total of 851 patients undergoing emergency surgery between January 2022 and January 2023 were retrospective examined. Using 30 and 180 days mortality data, NLR differences and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were analyzed using a 65-year threshold. A multiple logistic regression model was constructed incorporating age and NLR. Finally, Kaplan–Meier curves were constructed for mortality. Results: Among 851 patients, the 30 and 180 days mortality rates were 5.2% and 10.8%, respectively. Median NLR in 30 days was 5.6 (3.1 to 9.6) in survivors and 8.7 (4.6 to 13.4) in deceased patients (p < 0.0001); in 180 days, it was 5.5 (3.1 to 9.8) and 8.8 (4.8 to 14.5), respectively (p < 0.0001). In the 30- and 180-days mortality analyses, median NLRs were 5.1 (2.9 to 8.9) and 4.9 (2.9 to 8.8) in survivors and 10.6 (6.9 to 16.6) and 9.3 (5.4 to 14.9) in deceased patients aged < 65 years, respectively. The ROC AUC in patients younger than 65 years was higher for 30 days (AUC 0.75; 95% CI 0.72 to 0.87) and 180 days (AUC 0.73; 95% CI 0.64 to 0.81). Multivariate logistic regression revealed that the NLR (odds ratio, 1.03 [95% CI 1.005 to 1.053; p = 0.0133) and age (odds ratio, 1.05 [95% CI 1.034 to 1.064; p < 0.0001) significantly contributed to the model. Survival analysis revealed differences in the 180 days mortality (p = 0.0006). Conclusion: We observed differences in preoperative NLR between patients who survived and those who died after emergency surgery. Age impacts the use of NLR as a mortality risk factor. Trial registration: NCT06549101, retrospectively registered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dexmedetomidine is considered to have neuroprotective effects and may reduce postoperative delirium in both cardiac and major non-cardiac surgeries. Compared with non-cardiac surgery, the delirium incidence is extremely high after cardiac surgery, which could be caused by neuroinflammation induced by surgical stress and CPB. Thus, it is essential to explore the potential benefits of dexmedetomidine on the incidence of delirium in cardiac surgery under CPB. Methods: Randomized controlled trials studying the effect of perioperative dexmedetomidine on the delirium incidence in adult patients undergoing cardiac surgery with CPB were considered to be eligible. Data collection was conducted by two reviewers independently. The pre-specified outcome of interest is delirium incidence. RoB 2 was used to perform risk of bias assessment by two reviewers independently. The random effects model and Mantel-Haenszel statistical method were selected to pool effect sizes for each study. Results: PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science were systematically searched from inception to June 28, 2023. Sixteen studies including 3381 participants were included in our systematic review and meta-analysis. Perioperative dexmedetomidine reduced the incidence of postoperative delirium in patients undergoing cardiac surgery with CPB compared with the other sedatives, placebo, or normal saline (RR 0.57; 95% CI 0.41–0.79; P = 0.0009; I2 = 61%). Conclusions: Perioperative administration of dexmedetomidine could reduce the postoperative delirium occurrence in adult patients undergoing cardiac surgery with CPB. However, there is relatively significant heterogeneity among the studies. And the included studies comprise many early-stage small sample trials, which may lead to an overestimation of the beneficial effects. It is necessary to design the large-scale RCTs to further confirm the potential benefits of dexmedetomidine in cardiac surgery with CPB. Registration number: CRD42023452410. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Uncontrolled hypertension is a major public health challenge in low‐ and middle‐income countries. The Hypertension Control Program in Argentina (HCPIA) showed that a community health worker‐led multicomponent intervention was effective for blood pressure (BP) reduction in resource‐limited settings, but whether the intervention was equally effective across participant subgroups is unknown. Objective. To identify participants who benefit the most from the HCPIA BP control intervention. Methods. This secondary analysis used data from HCPIA, a successful 18‐month cluster‐randomized trial in 18 health centers with 1,432 low‐income hypertensive patients in Argentina. Fifteen baseline characteristics were used to define subgroups. The proportion of controlled BP (<140/90 mmHg) was estimated using generalized linear mixed models with arm‐by‐subgroup interaction terms. The distribution of trial BP response among intervention patient subgroups was assessed. Results. Participants were 53.0% female, a mean age of 56 years, and 17.4% controlled BP at baseline. After the intervention, 72.9% of intervention and 52.2% of control participants had controlled BP. The intervention was more effective in physically inactive patients (OR = 2.76, 95% CI: 1.82 and 4.21; p for interaction = 0.04), moderately active patients (OR = 3.08, 95% CI: 1.90 and 4.99; p for interaction = 0.03), and those with uncontrolled BP at baseline (OR = 2.77, 95% CI: 2.15 and 3.57; p for interaction = 0.05). Among intervention participants, 20.2% had no BP response (BP change < −4 mmHg), 41.3% had a moderate BP response (BP change: −4 mmHg to −24 mmHg), and 38.5% had a high BP response (BP change > −24 mmHg). Women (p = 0.01), those who were physically inactive (p = 0.03), and those not taking antihypertensive medications at baseline (p = 0.001) had the greatest BP response. Conclusion. The effect of the intervention was consistent across many subgroups with some key groups showing a particularly strong intervention effect. These findings could be useful for planning future hypertension control programs in low‐ and middle‐income countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: High turnover rates and burnout are prevalent issues among registered nurses in public hospitals in Hong Kong. Pay level satisfaction is one of the crucial factors influencing organisational and professional turnover intention. Understanding whether pay level satisfaction can mitigate the negative impact of burnout on turnover intention can provide insights into the role of financial rewards in employee retention. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the relationship between job demands and turnover intention among registered nurses in Hong Kong public hospitals. Additionally, it seeks to examine the mediating role of burnout and explore the potential moderating effect of pay level satisfaction on the relationship between burnout and turnover intention. Methods: The study was a cross‐sectional online survey of public hospital staff in Hong Kong. A total of 502 registered nurses who had worked at their employing facility for at least 6 months participated in this cross‐sectional survey. Study variables included work overload, job stress, work–family conflict, family–work conflict, conflict with other nurses, burnout, pay level satisfaction and turnover intention. The collected data were analysed using bivariate Pearson correlation analysis and mediated moderation analysis with the PROCESS macro in SPSS 28.0. Results: Burnout mediated the relationship between job demands, including work overload, job stress, work–family conflict, family–work conflict and conflicts with nurses, and organisational and professional turnover intention. Pay level satisfaction did not exert a moderating influence on the relationship between job demands and turnover intention through burnout mediating this relationship. Conclusions: The importance of addressing job stress and burnout to mitigate turnover intention and promote nurse retention is underscored. Contrary to expectations, pay level satisfaction did not buffer the negative impact of job demands on turnover intentions via burnout. This suggests that compensation alone may not be sufficient to offset the detrimental effects of high job demands and burnout on nurses' intention to leave their jobs or the profession. Further research is warranted to explore potential moderators that may influence the relationship between job demands and turnover intention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

COVID‐19 brought many difficulties for medical workers' mental health. They tend to exhibit a high turnover rate, which has deteriorated the situation of high demands on the healthcare workforce. Thus, enhancing medical interns' resilience is of great significance. Previous studies have delved into how job crafting relates to resilience, but there has been limited exploration of how the three dimensions of job crafting interplay with resilience. Thus, our research examined the moderating role of social media use intensity in associations between task crafting, cognitive crafting, relational crafting, and resilience. A total of 605 medical interns were obtained. The results revealed that task crafting, cognitive crafting, and relational crafting exhibited significant and positive associations with resilience. More importantly, social media use intensity moderated associations between task crafting, cognitive crafting, and resilience, with these associations being weaker for individuals with high levels of social media use intensity. However, the moderating role of social media use intensity was not significant between relational crafting and resilience. Finally, the findings provided some guidance for instructors to enhance medical interns' resilience and thus prepare them for employment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Reports on coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in neonates are limited, especially in patients infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV-2) Omicron variant. This study aims to analyze the clinical characteristics and identify risk factors associated with severe COVID-19 in neonates infected with Omicron variant. Methods: The study population was represented by neonates with COVID-19, who were admitted to The Affiliated Children's Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University in northwest China, from December 10, 2022 to January 20, 2023. Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced that all local COVID-19 cases were infected with Omicron variant during the study period. Clinical and laboratory data were collected retrospectively. We used logistic regression analysis to investigate the risk factors for severe COVID-19, and derived odds ratios (ORs) and the corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results: A total of 108 neonates, with median age of 18.1 days (interquartile range 9.4–23.0), were affected by COVID-19, of whom 84 had a mild disease, while 24 a severe one (22.2%). Of them, 6.5% were premature. No deaths were observed in the study population. The most common clinical manifestations were fever (88.9%) and cough (55.6%), with 5 cases (4.6%) complicated by pneumonia. 4 cases (3.7%) received respiratory support, including 2 cases of high-flow oxygen and 2 cases of continuous positive airway pressure. Gestational age at birth (OR: 0.615; 95% CI: 0.393–0.961), neutrophil count (NEU) (OR:0.576; 95% CI : 0.344–0.962) and lymphocyte count (LYM) (OR: 0.159; 95% CI: 0.063–0.401) were independent risk factors for severe COVID-19. The combination of NEU and LYM had the largest receiver operating characteristic area under the curve [0.912 (95% CI:0.830–0.993)] for identifying severe COVID-19, with a sensitivity of 0.833 and a specificity of 0.917. Conclusions: The general presentations and outcomes of neonatal COVID-19 caused by Omicron variant were not severe, and very few patients required respiratory support. The simultaneous decrease in NEU and LYM can be used to identify severe infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The reference values of eNO have certain differences among people of different countries and races. We aimed to obtain the reference value of eNO in healthy children and adolescents (6–18 years old) in China and to explore the associations between the reference values with ages, gender, heights, BMI, and regions. Methods: We measured FeNO50 levels in 5949 healthy Chinese children and adolescents, FeNO200 and CaNO levels in 658 participants from 16 provinces of 7 administrative areas in China aged 6–18. All persons were studied after obtaining informed consent from children and their parents. Results: The mean FeNO50 of 5949 Chinese children and adolescents aged 6–18 years was 14.1 ppb, with a 95% confidence interval of 1-38.1 ppb. The mean FeNO200 of 658 persons was 6.9 ppb with a 95% upper confidence interval of 15.0 ppb, and the mean CaNO was 3.0 ppb with a 95% upper confidence interval of 11.2 ppb. In the 6–11 age group, age and height were correlated with the logarithm of FeNO50 (P < 0.001, P < 0.05). There was no significant correlation between the logarithm of FeNO200 and gender, age, height and BMI (all P > 0.05). The logarithm of CaNO was correlated with gender (P < 0.05). In the 12–18 age group, gender, height, and region were correlated with the logarithm of FeNO50 (all P < 0.001). There was only a weak correlation between the logarithm of FeNO200 and height (P < 0.001). The logarithm of CaNO was negatively correlated with age (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Higher FeNO50, FeNO200 and CaNO values were found in healthy children and adolescents in China compared with foreign reports, and is affected by age, height, gender, and region. This study provides useful references for clinical application of eNO in children, especially Asian children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Students' attitudes towards digital technologies affect their use of innovations in digital education. In the study, it was aimed to determine undergraduate health sciences students' views about the Metaverse and digital technology. Methods: This study was a cross-sectional descriptive study. In the study sample, 289 health sciences students who voluntarily agreed to participate in the research and filled out the online data collection form were included. The Independent Samples T-Test, Multivariate ANOVA analysis of variance (MANOVA) and Pearson correlation analysis were used. P-values less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: The mean score the participants obtained from the Metaverse Scale was 53.54 ± 9.00, indicating that their levels of knowledge and awareness about the Metaverse were high. The mean score they obtained from the Attitude Scale for Digital Technology was 135.98 ± 21.28, which indicated that displayed positive attitudes towards digital technology. There was no significant difference between the mean scores the participants obtained from the Attitude Scale for Digital Technology and the Metaverse Scale according to their departments and years in school. There was a positive and weak relationship between the Metaverse Scale scores and Attitude Scale for Digital Technology scores. Conclusions: The participants' knowledge and awareness levels about the Metaverse were high and they displayed positive attitudes towards digital technology. It is recommended that digital technologies should be used in planning undergraduate education and Metaverse platforms or applications in virtual classroom settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The trabeculae-oriented pattern (TOP®) cup was designed to minimize acetabular periprosthetic bone loss. In our previous prospective study comprising 30 patients with a two-year follow-up we found a substantial decrease in periprosthetic bone mineral density (pBMD) in the proximal and medial regions of the TOP cup. The present study aims to investigate pBMD changes in the mid-term and how this affects implant survival. Methods: We followed the previous cohort and estimated implant survival by Kaplan-Meier analysis, evaluated pBMD with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and clinical outcome using the Harris Hip Score (HHS). Results: Mean follow-up was 8.6 (range 7.8–9.1) years. The eight-year implant survival rate for cup revision for all reasons was 83% (95% confidence interval {CI}: 70–97) and 86% (CI: 74–99) when cup revision due to aseptic loosening was the endpoint. Mean HHS at eight years was 95 (range 77–100). A further 12% (CI: 5–17) loss in pBMD was detected in the proximal Digas zone 1 and 12% (CI: 7–17) loss in Digas zone 2 also between two and eight years after surgery. pBMD continued to decrease up to 30% (CI: 24–36) in Digas zones 1, 2 and 3 compared to pBMD immediately postoperatively. Conclusions: The TOP cup shows inferior mid-term survival rates compared to other uncemented cups, as well as a continuous decrease in pBMD. Periprosthetic bone loss cannot be prevented by this uncemented cup. Clinical trial number: Not applicable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Material and Methods Results Conclusions Intra‐amniotic inflammation is causally linked to spontaneous preterm labor. The gold standard for the diagnosis of intra‐amniotic inflammation is the determination of an amniotic fluid profile obtained from transabdominal amniocentesis, which is invasive. Cervicovaginal fluid fetal fibronectin (fFN) is a widely‐used predictive biomarker for spontaneous preterm labor. The aims of this study are to determine (1) whether a quantitative cervicovaginal fluid fFN test can be used to identify the presence of intra‐amniotic inflammation; and (2) an appropriate cut‐off value of a cervicovaginal fluid fFN concentration for the identification of intra‐amniotic inflammation.This prospective cohort study included 78 patients with preterm labor and intact membranes who had a sample collected for quantitative cervicovaginal fluid fFN measurement and underwent transabdominal amniocentesis. Intra‐amniotic inflammation was defined as an amniotic fluid interleukin‐6 concentration ≥2.6 ng/mL. Clinicians were masked from the results of cervicovaginal fluid fFN and amniotic fluid interleukin‐6 concentrations. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine which factors were significant predictors of intra‐amniotic inflammation. The diagnostic indices of the cervicovaginal fluid fFN test for the identification of intra‐amniotic inflammation were calculated.(1) Frequency of intra‐amniotic inflammation was 26.9% (21/78); (2) the higher the cervicovaginal fluid fFN concentration, the greater the risk of intra‐amniotic inflammation (p < 0.001); (3) cervicovaginal fluid fFN concentration ≥125 ng/mL had an area under the curve of 0.91 (95% confidence interval: 0.83–0.96) for the identification of intra‐amniotic inflammation with 100% sensitivity, 100% negative predictive value, 82.46% specificity and a positive likelihood ratio of 5.7; and (4) cervicovaginal fluid fFN cut‐off of 125 ng/mL had a significant higher predictive performance than the traditional cut‐off (50 ng/mL) for the identification of intra‐amniotic inflammation.Quantitative cervicovaginal fluid fFN with a cut‐off of 125 ng/mL had a high sensitivity and a negative predictive value as well as a positive likelihood ratio for the identification of intra‐amniotic inflammation. Its high sensitivity and negative predictive value can be used to decrease an index of suspicion of intra‐amniotic inflammation. This test may be useful as an initial assessment test to select appropriate patients for amniocentesis to determine intra‐amniotic inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary Background Aims Methods Results Conclusions Ustekinumab is approved for ulcerative colitis (UC).To assess the durability of ustekinumab in patients with UC and its short‐term effectiveness, durability and tolerability in clinical practice.Retrospective, multicentre study of patients who had received their first ustekinumab dose at least 16 weeks before inclusion. Patients were followed until treatment discontinuation or last visit. Only patients with active disease at the start of ustekinumab treatment were considered in the effectiveness analysis. Patients who stopped ustekinumab before their last visit were considered not to be in subsequent remission.We included 620 patients; 155 (25%) discontinued ustekinumab during follow‐up (median 12 months). Rate of discontinuation was 20% per patient‐year of follow‐up. Anaemia at baseline (hazard ratio, HR 1.5; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.1–2.1), steroids at baseline (HR 1.5; 95% CI 1.06–2.08) and more severe clinical activity at baseline (HR 1.5; 95% CI 1.09–2.06) were associated with higher risk of discontinuation. At the end of induction, 226 (40%) patients were in steroid‐free clinical remission. Moderate–severe vs mild disease activity at baseline (odds ratio [OR] 0.3; 95% CI 0.2–0.5), male sex (OR 0.5; 95% CI 0.4–0.8), and increased number of previous biologics (OR 0.6; 95% CI 0.6–0.8) were associated with lower likelihood of steroid‐free clinical remission at week 16. One hundred and seventy‐six patients (28%) had at least one adverse event. We observed no negative impact of ustekinumab on extraintestinal manifestations and/or immune‐mediated diseases.Ustekinumab durability in UC was relatively high, and treatment was effective in highly refractory patients. The safety profile was consistent with previous studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates constant-stress accelerated life tests interrupted by a progressive type-I interval censoring regime. We provide a model based on the Chen distribution with a constant shape parameter and a log-linear connection between the scale parameter and stress loading. Inferential methods, whether classical or Bayesian, are employed to address model parameters and reliability attributes. Classical methods involve the estimation of model parameters through maximum likelihood and midpoint techniques. Bayesian approximations are achieved via the utilization of the Metropolis–Hastings algorithm, Tierney-Kadane procedure, and importance sampling methods. Furthermore, we engage in a discourse on the estimation of confidence intervals, making references to both asymptotic confidence intervals and credible intervals. To conclude, we furnish a simulation study, a corresponding discussion, and supplement these with an analysis of real data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Active drugs and nutraceutical supplements commonly induce various gastrointestinal illnesses, and constipation is a major gastrointestinal symptom accompanied with functional gastrointestinal disorders. Drug-induced imbalance in gut microbiota may play critical role in such physiological disturbances. Probiotics have been known for resuming normal and healthy gut microbiome. Objective: To investigate the clinical efficacy and safety of Bacillus coagulans LBSC in the treatment of drug induced constipation associated with functional gastrointestinal disorder (FGID) symptoms. Methods: A prospective, interventional, randomized, double-blind, parallel, multi-arm, controlled trial with 168 patients experiencing drug induced constipation associated with FGID symptoms (DICAWFGID) screened through Rome IV criteria were randomized into 2 arms, i.e. placebo arm (n = 28) and atorvastatin, atenolol, metformin, amitriptyline, and calcium in test arm (n = 28/arm). Patients in both arms received similar dosages (1 g sachet, 3 times a day) for 35 days. The occurrence of constipation using Bristol Stool Form Scale, assessment of degree of constipation on 4-point Likert scale, occurrence of hard stool and degree of stool expulsion on 3-point scale, and defecation frequency were primary endpoints. While, secondary outcomes consisted of the changes in severity of FGID symptoms, visual analogue scale and tolerance to IP, along with reports of adverse events (AEs) and severe adverse events (SAEs). Results: There was a significant reduction in occurrence of constipation (≥98.6% and P -value <0.05) in test arm over the placebo arm. Assessment of co-primary endpoints showed significant improvements in degree of stool consistency (P -value 0.0232; CI: 0.1870, 1.1629), borderline significantly superior in degree of stool expulsion (P -value 0.0553; CI: 0.0378, −0.4939), while the other co-primary efficacy endpoints displayed considerably improved advancement (non-significant, P -value ≥0.05). The intra group analysis of symptoms at start of treatment (SOT) and end of treatment (EOT) revealed a significant reduction in scores for occurrence of constipation and degree of constipation, whereas significant improvement in the scores for degree of stool consistency and degree of stool expulsion (P -value <0.001) after the intervention period. In secondary endpoints, the processed responses clearly signified a considerable positive improvement (non-significant, P -value ≥0.05) in other symptoms of constipation associated with FGIDs as determined by the changes in the EOT-SOT score. The study data also highlighted the safety o f Bacillus coagulans LBSC at the studied dose. No AEs and/or SAEs were documented during the investigation. Conclusion: At the studied dose, Bacillus coagulans LBSC was safe for oral consumption and effective in the management of the drug induced constipation associated with FGIDs symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Purpose: This retrospective immunohistological pilot study aimed to investigate the influence of natural killer group 2, member D (NKG2D) ligand expression on ameloblastoma recurrence after surgical resection. It also aimed to elucidate additional clinical factors that could serve as predictors of ameloblastoma recurrence. Materials and methods: This study included 96 patients who were histologically diagnosed with ameloblastoma after surgical resection. The expression of NKG2D ligands, including UL16-binding proteins (ULBPs) 1–3 and major histocompatibility complex class I chain-related molecule (MIC) A/B, was evaluated in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tumor tissues via immunohistochemistry assays. Furthermore, the patients' electronic medical records were reviewed. Multivariate Cox regression analysis was conducted, and data were expressed as adjusted hazard ratios [HRs] with 95% confidence intervals [95% CIs]. Results: Multivariate analysis revealed that recurrent tumors (ref.: primary; adjusted HR [95% CI]: 2.780 [1.136, 6.803], p = 0.025) and positive MICA/B expression (ref.: negative; adjusted HR [95% CI]: 0.223 [0.050, 0.989], p = 0.048) independently affected recurrence-free survival in ameloblastoma. Conclusion: This study identified recurrent cases and loss of MICA/B expression as independent predictors of early ameloblastoma recurrence following surgical resection. The findings suggest that decreased MICA/B expression might undermine NKG2D-mediated tumor immunosurveillance, thereby influencing early recurrence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The posterior ethmoid sinuses have a complex anatomy and a highly variable normal structure. The posterior ethmoid Onodi cell needs careful assessment because of its proximity to the optic nerve and the internal carotid artery canal. Recognising the distinctions is essential for optimal pre-op preparation. Sphenoid sinus surgery can now be performed without worrying about compromising vital structures like the internal carotid artery or optic nerve. Preoperative radiological assessment is a quick and easy way to check for ethmoid cell pneumatisation differences. Aim and objectives: To determine the pneumatisation patterns of Onodi cells among the North-East Indian population using 16-slice multidetector computed tomography (MDCT). Results: Nine-hundred MDCT paranasal sinuses were analysed over a period of 0–2 years, out of which 220 cases showed the presence of Onodi cell. Type I were 89 cases (40.45%, CI 32.00–48.90), Type II were 128 cases (58.18%, CI 49.72–66.63), and 3 cases with Type III cell (1.36%, CI 0.18–2.54). Conclusion: The most prevalent pneumatisation pattern is Type II. The pneumatisation patterns of Onodi cells can be best detected and evaluated by multiplanar MDCT imaging. Sinus surgeons need a firm grasp of pneumatisation patterns to avoid damaging the optic nerve and internal carotid artery canal during operations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The difficulty in understanding speech becomes worse in the presence of background noise for individuals with sensorineural hearing loss. Speech-in-noise tests help to assess this difficulty. Previously, the Tulu sentence lists have been assessed for their equivalency to measure speech recognition threshold in noise among individuals with normal hearing. The present study aimed to determine the equivalence and test–retest reliability of Tulu sentence lists for measuring speech recognition threshold in noise among individuals with sensorineural hearing loss. Results: The SNR-50 was measured for 13 sentence lists in 20 Tulu-speaking individuals with mild to moderate sensorineural hearing loss. Retesting was done by administering all lists to eight participants after an average of 25.25 days (SD = 19.44). Friedman test was administered to check for the list equivalency. Intraclass correlation coefficient was measured to assess test–retest reliability. A regression analysis was performed to understand the influence of pure-tone average on SNR-50. A Kruskal–Wallis test was administered to check the statistical significance of the SNR-50 obtained across different configurations and degrees of hearing loss. Nine of the 13 Tulu sentence lists (lists 2, 4, 5, 6, 9, 10, 11, 12, and 13) were equivalent in individuals with sensorineural hearing loss. The mean SNR-50 for these nine lists was 1.13 dB (SD = 2.04 dB). The test–retest reliability was moderate (ICC = 0.727). The regression analysis showed that a pure-tone average accounted for 24.7% of the variance in SNR-50 data (p = 0.026). Individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss obtained the worst SNR-50, followed by mild and high-frequency hearing loss. Conclusion: Nine Tulu sentence lists are equivalent and reliable and can be used to measure speech recognition threshold in noise among individuals with sensorineural hearing loss who are Tulu speakers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

E-mental health (EMH) interventions gain increasing importance in the treatment of mental health disorders. Their outpatient efficacy is well-established. However, research on EMH in inpatient settings remains sparse and lacks a meta-analytic synthesis. This paper presents a meta-analysis on the efficacy of EMH in inpatient settings. Searching multiple databases (PubMed, ScienceGov, PsycInfo, CENTRAL, references), 26 randomized controlled trial (RCT) EMH inpatient studies (n = 6112) with low or medium assessed risk of bias were included. A small significant total effect of EMH treatment was found (g = 0.3). The effect was significant both for blended interventions (g = 0.42) and post-treatment EMH-based aftercare (g = 0.29). EMH treatment yielded significant effects across different patient groups and types of therapy, and the effects remained stable post-treatment. The results show the efficacy of EMH treatment in inpatient settings. The meta-analysis is limited by the small number of included studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: As walking abilities are widely affected among the aging population, investigating the effectiveness of wearable device-based walking programs is essential. The intentions of this meta-analysis were to investigate their effects on gait speed among older adults, as well as to include subgroup analysis to evaluate potential effects on individuals with aging-related conditions such as Parkinson's disease (PD) and stroke. Methods: Systematic retrieval of Pubmed, The Cochrane Library, Embase and Web of Science databases were searched up to February 2024. Outcomes such as gait speed, balance, cadence, and stride length were extracted and analyzed. Study quality was evaluated using the Rob 2 tool and heterogeneity was tested using I2 statistics through STATA 16. Results: Nine studies with 284 participants were analyzed. The intervention group showed a significant improvement in gait speed (weighted mean difference (WMD) 0.12; 95% CI 0.03 to 0.21). There is a subgroup analysis suggesting differential effects: significant improvements in PD and stroke subgroups, but not in the normal aging group. Balance (WMD: 1.93; 95% CI: 0.20 to 3.66) and stride length (WMD: 8.58; 95% CI: 3.04 to 14.12) were also shown to improve, but the heterogeneity across the studies was moderate (I2 = 63.91%). No significant changes were observed in the Timed Up and Go test, Gait Variability, and Step Width. Conclusions: Wearable device-based walking programs improve gait speed in older adults, with top notch advantages in the ones tormented by PD or stroke. These findings advocate that such interventions can be a valuable part of individualized treatment strategies in geriatric care, aiming to enhance mobility and usual satisfactory of existence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hypertension is a common complication in patients with osteoarthritis (OA). There is increasing interest in the relationship between hypertension and OA. However, hypertension has been reported to negatively affect symptoms and quality of life in patients with OA. Therefore, treating hypertension is crucial for patients with OA. However, there is a lack of realworld studies on the effects of medications for treating hypertension on OA. Methods: Data from the FAERS database from January 2004 to December 2023 were extracted for disproportionality analyses, and proportional reporting ratios (PRRs) were used to assess the association between medications for hypertension and all types of arthritis. Adverse event signals were identified and determined using reporting odds ratios (RORs) Adverse event signals were considered to have occurred if a drug-induced adverse event was recorded more than or equal to 3 and the lower limit of the ROR confidence interval was more than 1. We selected five classes of drugs including, calcium channel blockers (CCBs), angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs), angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), thiazide diuretics and ß-blockers and representative drugs were analysed for osteoarthritis-related adverse reactions, and age and gender subgroups were analysed for drugs of significance. We also analysed the occurrence of AEs in relation to time using the Weibull distribution. Results: In terms of overall data, we found significant OA adverse reaction signals only for ARBs among the five drug classes.ARB AEs for spinal osteoarthritis (ROR 4.64, 95% CI 3.62-5.94), osteoarthritis (ROR 3.24 95% CI 2.82-3.72) and gouty arthritis (ROR 3.27 95% CI 1.22-8.75) were the three adverse reactions with the loudest signals. Next, we found that valsartan had strong osteoarthritis adverse reaction signals among the three ARBs, namely, irbesartan, cloxartan, and valsartan. We also analysed age and gender subgroups and found that osteoarthritis signals were strongest in the 18-65 and 65+ population, while females seem to be more prone to valsartan-related OA AEs. Conclusion: ARBs, especially valsartan, have significant positive signals for OA AEs. Therefore, ARB drugs, especially valsartan, should be used with caution when treating patients with OA combined with hypertension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aims to assess stone-free rates after flexible ureterorenoscopy (fURS) using the T.O.HO. (Tallness, Occupied lesion, Hounsfield unit evaluation) scoring system and Ito's nomogram. Materials and methods: In the study conducted with 484 patients, the following parameters were analyzed: age, sex, comorbidities, hospitalization, affected side, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) history, stone length, stone density, number of stones, location, and presence of hydronephrosis. Results: Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that stone length, stone number, and lower pole stone location were associated with the prediction of stone-free status. The cut-off value for Ito's score was determined to be 13.5 points, with an AUC of 0.792 (sensitivity, 0.609; specificity, 0.821) and a 95% confidence interval of (0.752–0.832) (Fig. 1). The cutoff for the T.O.HO. score was 6.5 points, with an AUC of 0.744 (sensitivity 0.738, specificity 0.602) and a 95% confidence interval of (0.699–0.789). Conclusion: In conclusion, T.O.HO. scoring system and the Ito's nomogram are promising tools to predict stone-free status (SFS) after fURS in preoperative evaluation. In addition, the success of scoring systems in predicting SFS preoperatively appears promising and offers a potentially valuable approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This clinical study aimed to evaluate the practical value of integrating an AI diagnostic model into clinical practice for caries detection using intraoral images. Methods: In this prospective study, 4,361 teeth from 191 consecutive patients visiting an endodontics clinic were examined using an intraoral camera. The AI model, combining MobileNet-v3 and U-net architectures, was used for caries detection. The diagnostic performance of the AI model was assessed using sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and accuracy, with the clinical diagnosis by endodontic specialists as the reference standard. Results: The overall accuracy of the AI-assisted caries detection was 93.40%. The sensitivity and specificity were 81.31% (95% CI 78.22%-84.06%) and 95.65% (95% CI 94.94%-96.26%), respectively. The NPV and PPV were 96.49% (95% CI 95.84%-97.04%) and 77.68% (95% CI 74.49%-80.58%), respectively. The diagnostic accuracy varied depending on tooth position and caries type, with the highest accuracy in anterior teeth (96.04%) and the lowest sensitivity for interproximal caries in anterior teeth and buccal caries in premolars (approximately 10%). Conclusion: The AI-assisted caries detection tool demonstrated potential for clinical application, with high overall accuracy and specificity. However, the sensitivity varied considerably depending on tooth position and caries type, suggesting the need for further improvement. Integration of multimodal data and development of more advanced AI models may enhance the performance of AI-assisted caries detection in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to identify and characterise behavioural profiles in patients at high risk of SCD, by using deep representation learning of day-to-day behavioural recordings. We present a pipeline that employed unsupervised clustering on low-dimensional representations of behavioural time-series data learned by a convolutional residual variational neural network (ResNet-VAE). Data from the prospective, observational SafeHeart study conducted at two large tertiary university centers in the Netherlands and Denmark were used. Patients received an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) between May 2021 and September 2022 and wore wearable devices using accelerometer technology during 180 consecutive days. A total of 272 patients (mean age of 63.1 ± 10.2 years, 81% male) were eligible with a total sampling of 37,478 days of behavioural data (138 ± 47 days per patient). Deep representation learning identified five distinct behavioural profiles: Cluster A (n = 46) had very low physical activity levels and a disturbed sleep pattern. Cluster B (n = 70) had high activity levels, mainly at light-to-moderate intensity. Cluster C (n = 63) exhibited a high-intensity activity profile. Cluster D (n = 51) showed above-average sleep efficiency. Cluster E (n = 42) had frequent waking episodes and poor sleep. Annual risks of malignant ventricular arrhythmias ranged from 30.4% in Cluster A to 9.8% and 9.5% for Clusters D-E, respectively. Compared to low-risk profiles (D-E), Cluster A demonstrated a three-to-four fold increased risk of malignant ventricular arrhythmias adjusted for clinical covariates (adjusted HR 3.63, 95% CI 1.54–8.53, p < 0.001). These behavioural profiles may guide more personalised approaches to ventricular arrhythmia and SCD prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the association between state laws limiting local control (preemption laws) and local smoke-free policies. We utilized policy data from the American Nonsmokers' Rights Foundation. The primary outcome variable is the presence of a "100% smoke-free policy," across any of 4 indoor settings: workplaces, restaurants, bars, and gaming venues. We employed generalized structural equation modeling to investigate the relationship between state laws pre-empting smoke-free indoor air regulation and local adoption of policies requiring smoke-free air in any public venues, or for specific venues, adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics. Our findings reveal a significant association between state preemption laws and the presence of a local 100% smoke-free indoor policy as of 2023. In states with preemption laws, cities were less likely to have a 100% smoke-free indoor policy at any venue than cities in states without preemption laws (OR = 0.07, 95% CI = 0.05-0.10). When considering specific smoke-free venues, cities in states with preemption laws were less likely to have a 100% smoke-free indoor policy covering workplaces (OR = 0.05, 95% CI = 0.03-0.09), restaurants (OR = 0.04, 95% CI = 0.02-0.07), bars (OR = 0.04, 95% CI = 0.03-0.08), and gaming venues (OR = 0.03, 95% CI = 0.01-0.09) compared to cities in states without preemption laws. Our study suggests that state preemption laws limit local decision-making and the implementation of public health policies focused on tobacco harms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The interrelation between infections, subjective cognitive decline (SCD), and dementia development is recognized, but not fully understood. This study explored the combined effect of specific infections and SCD on the risk of dementia. Objectives: To assess the influence of Helicobacter pylori, herpes simplex virus, varicella-zoster virus, and human papillomavirus on dementia risk in individuals with varying cognitive statuses, especially focusing on those with and without SCD. Methods: A cohort of 1,100,540 participants aged 66 years from the Korean National Health Insurance Service was divided into cognitively preserved (CP, n = 825,405) and SCD (n = 275,135) groups. This study analyzed the effects of single, dual, and triple infections on the risk of overall dementia, Alzheimer's disease (AD), and vascular dementia (VaD) using incidence rates and hazard ratios. Results: The SCD group consistently showed a doubled risk of dementia, particularly AD, regardless of the number of infections. In the initial data, both the presence and number of infections, especially in the CP group, were associated with an increased dementia incidence and risk; however, this correlation disappeared after adjusting for covariates, hinting at a possible protective effect. Conclusion: Our findings emphasize that, while SCD is a steadfast risk factor for dementia, the role of infections is layered, subject to various influences, and requires more comprehensive exploration to fully understand their impact on dementia development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]