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A study conducted by the Kaiser Permanente Vaccine Study Center in Oakland, California, focused on the effectiveness of the 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) in adults over 65 years old. The research found that PCV13 was associated with a vaccine effectiveness of 61.5% against PCV13-serotype invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) and 46.3% against serotype 3 IPD. The study concluded that ongoing surveillance is crucial to assess the impact of higher valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccines on IPD serotype distribution in older adults. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Kaiser Permanente Northern California conducted a study on the effectiveness of specialty alcohol treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study included 14,712 patients with unhealthy alcohol use and found that those who received any form of treatment had greater reductions in alcohol consumption compared to those who did not. The research suggests that a hybrid approach combining in-person and telehealth treatment was effective in reducing alcohol use during the pandemic. The study was funded by the NIH National Institute on Alcohol Abuse & Alcoholism and has been peer-reviewed. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at Kaiser Permanente Northern California compared the effectiveness of virtual collaborative care and specialty psychiatry treatment for depression and anxiety. The study included over 10,000 patients with depressive disorders and over 2,900 patients with anxiety disorders. Results showed that both collaborative care and specialty psychiatry led to significant improvements in symptoms, with collaborative care showing greater improvement for both depression and anxiety. The research suggests that collaborative care implementation can align with national guidelines for depression and anxiety screening and treatment. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Oakland Medical Center conducted a study comparing patient information on laryngology topics generated by Chat-Generative Pre-Trained Transformer-3.5 (ChatGPT) and the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS). The study found that material from ChatGPT was at least two reading grade levels higher than AAO-HNS, but there was largely no difference in the quality of information provided. The research concluded that patient information on the ENTHealth.org website for select laryngology topics had a lower grade level and higher reading ease compared to that produced by ChatGPT. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Kaiser Permanente Northern California examined the short-term neurodevelopmental outcomes of neonates affected by fetomaternal hemorrhage (FMH) compared to an unexposed group. The study found no significant difference in rates of neurodevelopmental impairment between FMH-exposed and unexposed infants, both preterm and term. While the study suggests further evaluation in a larger cohort, it highlights that surviving infants did not show a significant difference in neurodevelopmental diagnoses compared to matched unexposed infants. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by Ibis Reproductive Health in Oakland, California, examined the relationship between school environment and health outcomes among adolescent girls and young women in South Africa. The research found that perceptions of an unsafe school environment and negative personal experiences were associated with a higher risk of depressive symptoms. Additionally, a worse school environment was linked to increased risks of pregnancy, unprotected sex, and having an older partner. The study highlights the importance of considering school environments in addressing health and behavior outcomes among adolescents. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by Permanente Medical Group Inc. in Oakland, California, focused on improving anticoagulation initiation for adult emergency department patients with atrial fibrillation. The study, known as the O'cafe Stepped-wedge Cluster Randomized Clinical Trial, utilized a multipronged intervention to support anticoagulation initiation but did not significantly increase anticoagulation rates. The findings suggest that there are opportunities to enhance stroke prevention among emergency department patients with atrial fibrillation. The study was published in JAMA Network Open and was financially supported by the Permanente Medical Group DARE program and Physician Researcher Program. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted in Oakland, California, by Kaiser Permanente Northern California examined the association between neighborhood deprivation during early pregnancy and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). The research found that pregnant individuals residing in more deprived neighborhoods had an increased risk of GDM compared to those in less deprived areas. Prepregnancy body mass index (BMI) was identified as a significant mediator in this relationship. The study concluded that neighborhood deprivation is linked to GDM, with prepregnancy BMI playing a crucial role in this association. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at the University of California San Francisco (UCSF) examined the cost-effectiveness of repeat computed tomography angiography (CTA) for asymptomatic grade 1 blunt cerebrovascular injuries (BCVIs) in patients on antithrombotic therapy. The decision-analytic model suggested that repeating the CTA was the optimal strategy, despite incurring a slightly higher cost, as it improved quality-adjusted life years (QALYs). The research concluded that repeating the CTA is a cost-effective management strategy for asymptomatic grade 1 BCVIs. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from the Department of Podiatric Surgery in Oakland, California, conducted a study on secondary surgeries following Lapidus bunionectomy for hallux valgus. They found that 5% of patients required revision surgery and 6.5% needed hardware removal post-procedure. Risk factors for revision surgery included the use of a screw for fixation, while female sex and the type of fixation were associated with hardware removal. The study aims to help healthcare providers identify specific risk factors to discuss with patients considering this procedure. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at the University of California San Francisco (UCSF) focused on pediatric palliative epilepsy surgery and its outcomes. The research highlighted that palliative surgery can lead to a reduction in seizure burden and an improvement in the quality of life for children with drug-resistant epilepsy. The study compared patient characteristics between palliative and definitive epilepsy surgical patients and found that palliative patients achieved over 50% seizure reduction, although seizure-free outcomes were higher in patients undergoing traditional definitive surgeries. The research concluded that palliative surgical patients should be promptly referred to an epilepsy surgery center after failing two appropriate anti-seizure medications. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from the University of California San Francisco (UCSF) conducted a study on the relationship between hope and willingness to adhere to pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) among young women in South Africa and Zimbabwe. The study found that while hope was positively associated with PrEP willingness, it did not significantly impact PrEP adherence or persistence. The research suggests that cultivating hope may be important for building willingness to take PrEP, but additional strategies may be needed to sustain adherence and persistence. The study was funded by various institutes under the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and has been peer-reviewed. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study from the University of California San Francisco (UCSF) examined the cost-effectiveness of routine Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA) for patients with isolated lower extremity penetrating trauma and normal ankle-brachial-indices (ABI). The research found that clinical evaluation without routine CTA was more cost-effective, with lower costs and higher Quality-Adjusted Life Years (QALYs) gained. The study suggests that patients with isolated lower extremity trauma and normal ABIs may not benefit from routine CTA due to increased costs without added benefits. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by the University of California San Francisco (UCSF) explored the experiences of caregivers raising children with both Down syndrome (DS) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Caregivers reported a delay in receiving an ASD diagnosis, with concerns often being dismissed initially. The study highlighted the need for tailored diagnostic algorithms and therapeutic interventions to support this unique patient population, as well as the caregivers who face high levels of stress and social isolation. The research underscores the importance of improved understanding, targeted therapies, and overall support for individuals with DS-ASD. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study published in Oakland, California, highlights the importance of addressing psychosocial health issues after a stroke event. The research emphasizes the need for enhanced screening, assessment, supportive services, and education to ensure that patients receive necessary treatment and care. The study calls for more inclusive nursing interventions that consider the impact of structural racism and care disparities, focusing on individuals with recurrent strokes and preexisting psychosocial conditions. [Extracted from the article]

A systematic review and meta-analysis conducted by researchers at Kaiser Permanente in Oakland, California, compared complication rates in external auditory canal exostoses treated with drill versus osteotome canalplasty. The study included 15 studies with a total of 1399 patients and found that the osteotome technique was associated with a lower rate of sensorineural hearing loss and stenosis, but a higher rate of tympanic membrane perforation compared to the drill technique. The research concluded that additional randomized studies are needed to assess clinical efficacy in treating EAC exostectomy complications. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Kaiser Permanente Oakland Medical Center have updated the Society of Thoracic Surgeons Short-term Esophagectomy Risk Model for esophageal cancer. The study included 18,503 patients from 254 centers and found that novel predictors such as body surface area and insurance payor type improved risk estimation. The updated models offer better performance and broader applicability for preoperative risk assessment, shared decision making, and quality improvement in esophagectomy procedures. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Kaiser Permanente Northern California examined osteoporosis screening results in Asian, Black, and non-Hispanic White women aged 65 to 75. The study found that a significant portion of Asian women had discordant bone mineral density and fracture risk scores, posing challenges in osteoporosis management. Additionally, few Black women were identified as high fracture risk based on their scores, highlighting the need for further research in understudied racial minority populations. The study was published in The American Journal of Managed Care and was funded by Kaiser Permanente Northern California Community Health and the NIH National Institute on Aging. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by the University of California focused on the relationship between sleep duration, food insecurity, and overweight status among Mexican adolescents aged 10-14. The research found that short sleep duration was associated with an increased prevalence of overweight/obesity, particularly in households with low or very low food security. The study highlights the importance of addressing both sleep hygiene and food security in strategies aimed at reducing obesity risk among adolescents. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by Kaiser Permanente Northern California examined the risk of postpartum readmission after hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and its association with discharge antihypertensive medication prescriptions. The research found that patients discharged with labetalol alone had a higher risk of readmission, while those prescribed nifedipine alone or multiple antihypertensive medications had a lower risk. The study suggests the need for further research to compare the effectiveness of commonly prescribed hypertension medications at discharge. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Kaiser Permanente Northern California conducted a study on the risk of gastric and small intestinal cancer in patients with Lynch syndrome (LS). The study included 1,106 patients with LS and found that those with MSH2 and MLH1 pathogenic variants had the highest risk of these cancers. The research suggests that testing and treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection should be considered for all patients with LS. [Extracted from the article]

A report from Oakland Medical Center in California discusses the findings of a study on tuberculosis (TB) and chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection screening among non-US-born individuals. The study found that screening rates for TB and HBV were low among individuals from countries with high burdens of both diseases. Additionally, the study revealed elevated prevalence of TB and chronic HBV infection among this population. The researchers suggest that cotesting for TB and HBV infection could improve outcomes by identifying individuals who require treatment or vaccination. Increasing screening rates is crucial for reducing health inequities and overall disease burden. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at the University of California Agricultural & Natural Resources explored students' perspectives on Universal School Meals (USM) during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study involved 67 students from racially and economically diverse backgrounds in California. The findings revealed that students appreciated USM for increasing accessibility to meals, reducing stigma, and simplifying the payment system. However, concerns were raised about the decline in food quality and quantity, as well as increased food waste. The researchers emphasized the importance of addressing these concerns to ensure the success of USM. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report discusses research findings on marijuana/cannabis and its potential as a substitute for other drugs. The study examined the relationship between cannabis use and alcohol and non-cannabis drug outcomes among residents of sober living houses (SLHs) in California. The research found that cannabis use was associated with increased risk of alcohol and other drug use and problems, suggesting that it does not work as a substitute for these substances. The study recommends that SLH managers and operators consider the potential harm that could result from policies that fail to address cannabis use. [Extracted from the article]

A new report from researchers at Kaiser Permanente Oakland Medical Center in California examines the otologic adverse reactions (OARs), including hearing loss, associated with the use of teprotumumab, a biologic drug approved for the treatment of active thyroid eye disease. The researchers analyzed data from the Food and Drug Administration Adverse Events Reporting System (FAERS) and found that out of 2,109 cases involving teprotumumab, 14.05% reported OARs, with 7.06% reporting hearing loss specifically. Disproportionality analysis showed a significant association between teprotumumab and hearing loss. The study suggests that audiometric counseling and evaluation should be considered for patients receiving teprotumumab therapy, particularly older patients. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by Kaiser Permanente Northern California examined the use of indocyanine green fluorescence (IGF) during minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE) to predict and improve outcomes. The study found that patients who underwent IGF evaluation had higher rates of anastomotic leak and 90-day mortality compared to those who did not undergo IGF evaluation. Additionally, patients with abnormal IGF fluorescence had even higher rates of anastomotic leak and 30-day mortality. The researchers suggest further studies to assess the physiological effects of indocyanine green on the esophageal anastomosis. [Extracted from the article]

The article outlines research findings from Kaiser Permanente Northern California regarding the effects of in utero cannabis exposure on neonatal outcomes, highlighting its association with low birthweight, small for gestational age, and preterm birth. Topics discussed include the study's methodology, the increased likelihood of adverse outcomes with higher frequency of cannabis use, and the importance of counseling for pregnant individuals about potential risks.

A new report discusses research on the associations between in utero cannabis exposure and neonatal outcomes. The study, conducted by Kaiser Permanente Northern California, found that in utero cannabis exposure was associated with increased odds of low birthweight, small for gestational age, preterm birth, and neonatal intensive care unit admission. The research suggests that clinicians should counsel individuals who are pregnant or considering pregnancy about the potential adverse neonatal health outcomes associated with prenatal cannabis use. The study was peer-reviewed and published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Samuel Merritt University in Oakland, California have found that incorporating life care planning (LCP) discussions into chronic disease management can increase the rates of LCP and advance directives documentation and completion. The researchers developed a quality improvement project that resulted in a 10-12% increase in LCP and advance directives documentation. This research may inform future efforts to incorporate these discussions for ongoing sustainability. The findings were published in The Journal for Nurse Practitioners. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of California San Francisco (UCSF) has examined the regulatory status of mifepristone, a drug used in medication abortion. Over 300 reproductive health researchers filed an amicus brief in a US Supreme Court case regarding the drug's safety and effectiveness. The study summarizes the legal challenge, responses from the FDA and drug manufacturer, oral arguments presented before the Court, and the implications of the Court's decision on access to mifepristone in the US. The research has been peer-reviewed and provides valuable insights into the ongoing debate surrounding this medication. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Kaiser Permanente Northern California has found that individuals with a greater number of adverse childhood experiences and low resilience are more likely to develop depression and anxiety during pregnancy. The study, which included 14,625 pregnancies, revealed that adverse childhood experiences and low resilience were independently associated with newly identified depressive disorders, depression symptoms, and anxiety disorders during pregnancy. The researchers suggest that routine screening for adverse childhood experiences and resilience may help identify individuals at risk and improve maternal and child outcomes. This research has been peer-reviewed and published in Obstetrics and Gynecology. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Kaiser Permanente Northern California has found that the long-term risk of reintervention after surgical treatment for leiomyomas (uterine fibroids) is lower for myomectomy compared to uterine artery embolization, endometrial ablation, or hysteroscopic myomectomy. The study analyzed a cohort of 10,324 patients and found that reintervention rates did not vary by race and ethnicity. However, rates of reintervention after certain procedures decreased with age, and hysteroscopic myomectomy had higher rates of reintervention for parous patients compared to nulliparous patients. The study suggests that long-term reintervention risks for certain surgical treatments for leiomyomas are greater than for myomectomy, with potential variation by patient age and parity. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at the University of California San Francisco (UCSF) examined the impact of different lymphadenectomy procedures on the survival of patients with Siewert II gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) cancer. The study found that extended nodal dissection with a D2 lymphadenectomy (LAD) did not lead to increased survival compared to a D1 LAD. Additionally, patients who underwent D2 LAD had a longer operative time and increased morbidity. The study suggests that D2 LAD may not be necessary for Siewert II cancer and may result in more complications without improving survival. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers from Kaiser Permanente Northern California examined the association between prenatal cannabis use and maternal health outcomes during pregnancy. The study included over 316,000 pregnancies in Northern California from 2011 to 2019. The results showed that prenatal cannabis use was associated with an increased risk of gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, abnormal weight gain, and placental abruption. However, further research is needed to understand the specific characteristics of prenatal cannabis use that may moderate these associations. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers from Kaiser Permanente Northern California examined the association between prenatal cannabis use and maternal health outcomes during pregnancy. The study included over 316,000 pregnancies in Northern California from 2011 to 2019. The results showed that prenatal cannabis use was associated with an increased risk of gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, abnormal weight gain, and placental abruption. However, further research is needed to understand the specific characteristics of prenatal cannabis use that may moderate these associations. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers from the University of California San Francisco (UCSF) compared the effectiveness and safety of medication abortion using telehealth and mailing of medications versus in-person care with ultrasonography. The study included 585 participants seeking medication abortion up to 70 days' gestation. The results showed that medication abortion obtained through telehealth screening and mailing of medications was as effective as in-person care with ultrasonography, with a low prevalence of adverse events. This study provides additional evidence on the effectiveness of telemedicine for medication abortion. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by investigators at the University of California San Francisco (UCSF) has developed a non-invasive prenatal test for beta-hemoglobinopathies using next-generation sequencing. The researchers used maternal plasma and next-generation sequencing to test for sickle cell disease and beta-thalassemia. By analyzing the fetal fraction and using in-silico size selection and haplotyping, the researchers were able to accurately predict fetal genotypes. This study provides valuable insights into the development of non-invasive prenatal testing for genetic diseases. [Extracted from the article]

A new report discusses research findings on the impact of adenotonsillectomy (AT) on healthcare utilization in children with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The study, conducted at Kaiser Permanente, aimed to assess the effects of surgical treatment on healthcare utilization among children with OSA. The analysis revealed that AT appears to decrease healthcare utilization patterns, particularly in children with severe OSA. However, children with mild or moderate OSA treated with AT had only modest reductions in healthcare utilization patterns. This study represents the largest available study on the topic and considers the effect of OSA severity on utilization patterns. [Extracted from the article]

A new report discusses research findings on neurosurgery, specifically the reoperation rates for symptomatic adjacent-segment disease (ASD) in different types of lumbar fusions. The study, conducted by Permanente Medical Group Inc., aimed to determine if there were differences in reoperation rates between anterior lumbar interbody fusion plus pedicle screws (ALIF+PS), posterior lumbar interbody fusion plus pedicle screws (PLIF+PS), transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion plus pedicle screws (TLIF+PS), and lateral lumbar interbody fusion plus pedicle screws (LLIF+PS). The study analyzed data from the Kaiser Permanente Spine Registry and found no statistical difference in reoperation rates for symptomatic ASD between the different fusion types. The research was peer-reviewed and published in the Journal of Neurosurgery: Spine. [Extracted from the article]

A report from the University of California Office of the President and the California Department of Cannabis Control highlights research on marijuana/cannabis policy issues in the state. The research covered various topics including the environment, cannabis markets, social equity, public health, medicinal cannabis use, and public safety. The goal of the research was to inform policy decisions and discuss how research can be incorporated into the cannabis policy landscape. The report is available for further reading and contact information for additional inquiries is provided. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by Kaiser Permanente in Oakland, California has found that active glycemic management during pregnancy can lead to improved outcomes for women with impaired fasting glucose (IFG). The study compared women who participated in telephonic home glucose monitoring and glycemic management with those who did not participate. The results showed that participants had a lower rate of large for gestational age (LGA) neonates compared to nonparticipants. The study suggests that active glycemic management can reduce the risk of LGA in women with IFG, similar to the management of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by Kaiser Permanente Northern California aimed to assess the agreement between self-report and urine toxicology measures of methamphetamine and cocaine use during early pregnancy. The study found that prenatal use of these illicit stimulants was rare, with low agreement between self-report and toxicology measures. Sensitivity of both self-report and toxicology tests was poor, but using both measures in combination provided the most accurate information. The study also emphasized the importance of creating nonstigmatizing environments where pregnant individuals feel comfortable disclosing substance use without fear of punishment. [Extracted from the article]

A recent qualitative study conducted by Kaiser Permanente Northern California explored the intentions of pregnant individuals who had used cannabis during early pregnancy regarding postpartum cannabis use. The study involved 53 participants, including 23 Black and 30 White pregnant adults. The findings revealed that while some participants viewed cannabis as essential for coping with postpartum mental and physical health challenges, others questioned its compatibility with their parental lifestyle and planned to abstain altogether. Most participants intended to use cannabis postpartum but with reduced frequency compared to before pregnancy, and in ways consistent with harm reduction. Many participants were motivated to abstain from cannabis while breastfeeding, while others desired more information on the safety of cannabis and breastfeeding. The study concluded that many participants were motivated to abstain from or use cannabis less frequently during lactation. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from the University of California San Francisco (UCSF) highlights the patient acceptability of telehealth medication abortion care in the United States. The study found that most patients trusted the provider, felt telehealth was the right decision, felt cared for, and were very satisfied with the service. Privacy, timeliness, and the ability to stay at home were cited as benefits, while initial uncertainty about the legitimacy of the service was the most commonly reported drawback. The research concludes that telehealth abortion care can expand access to abortion in a restricted landscape while maintaining patient-centered care. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by Kaiser Permanente Northern California explored the plans for postpartum cannabis use among pregnant individuals who had used cannabis during early pregnancy. The study involved 53 participants, including 23 Black and 30 White pregnant adults. The findings revealed that while some participants viewed cannabis as crucial for coping with postpartum mental and physical health challenges, others questioned its compatibility with their parental lifestyle and planned to abstain altogether. Most participants intended to use cannabis postpartum but with reduced frequency compared to before pregnancy, and in ways consistent with harm reduction. Many participants were motivated to abstain from cannabis while breastfeeding, while others desired more information on the safety of cannabis and breastfeeding. The study concluded that many participants were motivated to abstain or use cannabis less frequently during lactation. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Kaiser Permanente in Oakland, California explored the relationship between pain severity and the use of cannabis and prescription opioids in individuals with HIV. The study found that persons with HIV who reported using cannabis and/or opioids were more likely to experience moderate to severe pain compared to those who did not use these substances. The researchers emphasize the importance of assessing patients' pain management approaches, including substance use, in order to provide appropriate interventions and improve patient care. This study provides valuable insights for healthcare professionals working with individuals with HIV in urban primary care settings. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from Kaiser Permanente discusses the relationship between pain severity and the use of cannabis and prescription opioids among individuals with HIV. The study found that individuals who reported using cannabis alone, opioids alone, or both substances were more likely to experience moderate to severe pain compared to those who did not use these substances. The researchers emphasize the importance of assessing patients' pain management approaches and implementing appropriate interventions to reduce pain in individuals with HIV. This study provides valuable insights for healthcare providers in improving patient care. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by Permanente Medical Group Inc. in Oakland, California aimed to develop a predictive model for invasive bacterial infections (IBIs) in febrile infants aged 7-60 days. The study analyzed data from 37 emergency departments and found that 4.4% of the 4,411 eligible infants had IBIs, including 1.0% with bacterial meningitis. The study used various analytic approaches and found that a machine learning model called XGBoost demonstrated the best performance in predicting IBIs, even among infants excluded from existing risk stratification protocols. This research has been peer-reviewed and provides valuable insights for healthcare professionals working with febrile infants. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study from Saybrook University explores the concept of Eupsychian management, which was coined by Abraham Maslow to describe workplaces that foster creativity, synergy, and continuous learning. Maslow believed that these environments promote self-fulfillment and psychological health for all members. However, the study suggests that the realization of these ideals is hindered by global competition and the pressure for cost-efficiency. The researchers argue that psychological health in the workplace cannot be achieved without broader efforts towards social justice and environmental renewal. [Extracted from the article]