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The efficacy of opportunistic osteoporosis screening with computed tomography (CT) scans obtained for other indications has not yet been implemented by the current guidelines. We aimed to compile available evidence on the efficacy of osteoporosis screening with CT scans obtained for other indications compared with dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Studies comparing the diagnostic performance of the CT scan with the DXA published before 2023 were retrieved. We conducted a bias assessment using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for cross-sectional studies. Correlation coefficients (CC), area under the curve (AUC), sensitivity, and specificity of the CT scans compared with the DXA were meta-analyzed with random effects modeling. 41 studies fulfilled the inclusion/exclusion criteria. The included studies reported weak to very strong CC (0.35 to 0.95) and low to high accuracy for opportunistic osteoporosis screening with CT scans. The meta-analysis showed a moderate pooled CC of 0.59 (95 % CI: 0.53-0.64, P-value<0.001), and a relatively high AUC of 0.81 (95 % CI: 0.78-0.84, P-value<0.001). Subgroup analysis based on age and menopausal status did not show significant between-group differences. Significantly higher accuracy measures were estimated for CT scans of the proximal femur compared to other anatomic regions (CC: 0.70, 95 % CI: 0.57-0.82; AUC: 0.79, 95 % CI: 0.72-0.87), North American cases (CC: 0.66, 95 % CI: 0.52-0.80; AUC: 0.82, 95 % CI: 0.82-0.83), and populations with a higher percentage of women (CC: 0.60, 95 % CI: 0.52-0.69; AUC: 0.86, 95 % CI: 0.83-0.89). We observed a moderate performance of opportunistic osteoporosis screening with CT scans obtained for other indications., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Purpose: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the changes in retinal layer thickness and vascular density in patients diagnosed with keratoconus (KC)., Methods: We conducted a thorough search in PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science, encompassing all observational studies from January 1990 to February 2024. We analyzed the data using STATA software 17 and the random effects model with the restricted maximum likelihood (REML) or maximum likelihood (ML) method to pool the standardized mean difference (SMD) and the weighted mean difference (WMD) of retinal thickness and vascular density compared to non-KC eyes., Results: From 4608 records, 16 primary studies met our inclusion criteria, involving 1932 eyes in two groups. The meta-analysis revealed a significant reduction in retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness (SMD: -0.30 [-0.52, -0.08]), perifoveal macular thickness in the nasal region (SMD: -0.32 [-0.55, -0.09]) and superior region (SMD: -0.24 [-0.47, -0.02]), and superior capillary plexus (SCP) density (SMD: -1.52 [-2.27, -0.77]) of KC eyes. Additionally, there was a mildly to moderately significant increase in the optic nerve head (ONH) disk area (SMD: 0.40 [0.06, 0.75]). However, there were no significant changes in foveal macular thickness, parafoveal macular thickness, or deep capillary plexus (DCP) density., Conclusion: In KC patients, significant alterations in retinal structure and vascular density have been observed. Although these changes do not currently influence treatment strategies, they offer valuable insights into the relationship between the retina and the cornea. Understanding these changes may be essential for future research focused on early detection, potential prognosis markers, and further exploration of the retina-corneal connection in KC., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (© 2025 The Authors.)

Background: Esophageal embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma (ERMS), a rare pediatric cancer, mimicked achalasia in a case involving dysphagia and vomiting. Diagnosis and chemotherapy necessitate careful monitoring due to potential complications. Case presentation: A 12-year-old girl with no prior medical history presented with progressive dysphagia and vomiting. Initial diagnosis suggested achalasia, but further evaluation revealed a large mediastinal mass causing esophageal compression. Biopsies confirmed primary ERMS of the esophagus with metastases. Despite chemotherapy, she developed complications, including neutropenic enterocolitis and posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES). Unfortunately, she succumbed to neutropenic sepsis. Conclusion: In this case study, we presented our experience regarding the clinical course of this disease, treatment strategy, and prognosis, in addition to the limited previous information in the literature., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflicts of interest., (Copyright © 2024 Maryam Ataollahi et al.)

Background: When utilized as an adjunct with antidepressants, antipsychotics, and other psychopharmacological drugs, certain amino acids, such as L-Theanine (LT), have shown potential effectiveness in enhancing the symptomatic outcomes of patients with mental disorders. Despite this, there is a lack of previous systematic reviews examining these associations. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review of randomized controlled trials examining these relationships., Methods: A comprehensive systematic review was conducted, scouring six electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, PsycINFO, Web of Science, CINAHL Complete, and Cochrane) from their inception up to June 2023, specifically focusing on randomized controlled trials that investigated the effects of LT supplementation on the outcomes of patients with mental health disorders. The Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool for Randomized Trials was employed to assess the quality of the included studies., Results: Among the 419 publications identified, 11 studies from six countries - Israel, Iran, the USA, Japan, Australia, and Italy - were included in the final analysis. These studies covered a range of mental disorders, including schizophrenia, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), sleep disorders, Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), and Tourette syndrome. The findings demonstrated that LT supplementation reduced psychiatric symptoms more effectively than control conditions in individuals with schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, and ADHD., Conclusions: The findings from this systematic review suggest that LT supplementation significantly reduced psychiatric symptoms more effectively than control conditions in individuals with schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, and ADHD. However, further studies are essential to validate these findings, deepen the understanding of the observed effects, and explore the mechanisms underlying these associations., Competing Interests: Declarations. Ethics approval and consent to participate: Not applicable. Consent for publication: Not applicable. Competing interests: The authors declare no competing interests. Clinical Trial Number: Not applicable., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Introduction: Suicidal behavior necessitates prompt diagnosis due to its severe consequences. C-reactive protein (CRP) levels may offer insights into its pathophysiology and aid in risk assessment, potentially enhancing preventive interventions and treatment strategies. The aim of this study is to assess the CRP levels in depressed patients with and without suicidal behavior., Methods: Our systematic review was registered in Prospero (#CRD42024518477). We searched five databases (PubMed, Scopus, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and CINAHL Complete) for records in English from inception to February 2024. We included observational studies that measured CRP in depressed patients with and without suicidal behavior. We used the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) to assess the quality of the included studies. We employed a random-effects model, and the statistical analysis was conducted using Stata software version 17., Results: Initial 632 articles narrowed to 15 for systematic review. Fifteen studies with 3652 participants included. Fourteen studies involving 3387 depressed patients, 1269 with suicidal behavior, analyzed CRP levels. Suicidal patients exhibited higher CRP levels (SMD: 0.80 [0.37, 1.23]). Analysis of seven studies with 465 participants, including 200 depressed patients with suicidal behavior and 265 healthy controls, showed higher CRP levels in depressed patients (SMD: 1.58 [0.97, 2.19])., Conclusion: In summary, our systematic review and meta-analysis of CRP levels in suicidal patients revealed that those with suicidal behavior exhibited higher CRP levels, suggesting possible implications for treatment approaches., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors hadn't any conflict of interests to declare., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Background: Keratoconus (KC) is a chronic corneal disease that typically presents in early adulthood, and may potentially result in poor mental health in affected individuals. The evidence regarding the association of depression with KC is controversial. Hence, we investigated the association between depression and KC via a systematic review and meta-analysis., Methods: Five electronic medical databases (PubMed, Scopus, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and CINAHL Complete) were systematically queried for English-language records from their inception to January 8, 2024. We include observational studies that measured the risk of depression or compared depression scores in KC patients in comparison to healthy ones. The Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale was utilized to assess bias risk in the included studies. Random-effect modeling was applied for meta-analysis (STATA-17)., Results: Out of the 159 documents retrieved, seven articles were deemed relevant after screening. An analysis involving 83 KC patients and 3,186 controls indicated that KC participants had significantly higher depression scores [SMD: 0.71 [0.31, 1.11]; p < 0.01, I 2 : 52.7%]. However, a meta-analysis of four studies comparing depression rates in KC patients ( n = 23,838) to control groups ( n = 73,482) found no increased risk of depression among KC patients compared to controls [OR: 1.13 [0.66, 1.94]; p = 0.65, I 2 : 95.35%]., Conclusion: While KC patients exhibit significantly higher depression scores compared to controls, a meta-analysis indicates no increased overall risk of depression among KC patients. These findings highlight the complexity of the relationship between keratoconus and mental health, warranting further investigation., Systematic Review Registration: PROSPERO, identifier, CRD42024502247, available at: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display&#95;record.php?ID=CRD42024502247., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2024 Moshfeghinia, Arman, Sobhi, Mahmoudinezhad and Molavi Vardanjani.)

Background: Primary dysmenorrhea is a common gynecological disorder that affects many women of reproductive age. Ginger, a widely used spice with anti-inflammatory properties, has been suggested as a potential treatment for the painful cramps associated with this condition. Objective: The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the efficacy of ginger for pain management in primary dysmenorrhea. Methods: Our systematic review was registered in Prospero (CRD42023418001). Six English (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, PsycINFO, CINAHL complete, and Cochrane) and one Persian electric database (SID) was searched up to May 2023 for English or Persian studies that measure the effect of ginger on pain in dysmenorrhea. The Cochrane tool was used to assess the risk of bias of the included studies. Random effects meta-analyses were performed to obtain standardized mean differences (SMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results: Out of the 804 articles initially identified from the search, 24 were included for qualitative analysis and 12 for quantitative analysis after a full-text evaluation. The combined results of the studies indicate that ginger is notably more effective than placebo in reducing both the intensity (SMD = -1.13; 95% CI = -1.59 to -0.68, I 2 = 81.05%) and duration of pain (SMD = -0.29; 95% CI = -0.46 to -0.12). There were no differences between ginger and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (SMD = 0.01; 95% CI = -0.24 to 0.25), or exercise (SMD = 0.06; 95% CI = -0.66 to 0.78) for pain intensity. Safety-related data were infrequently reported. Conclusions: The results of this meta-analysis suggest that ginger can effectively reduce pain associated with dysmenorrhea. The findings are limited due to risk of bias in the included studies and the unclear risk-benefit ratio.

Introduction: Cannabinoids, both natural and synthetic, are a subject of scientific interest. Cannabis is widely used, and its impact on health and the immune system is being studied. The endocannabinoid system influences inflammation, including the Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR), a potential diagnostic tool. Our study investigates the connection between cannabis use and NLR., Methods: Our systematic review was registered in Prospero (#CRD42023463539). We searched six databases (PubMed, Scopus, Embase, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and CINAHL Complete) for records in English from inception to May 2024. We included observational studies that measured the Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR) in cannabis users and control participants. We used the Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale to assess the quality of the included studies. We selected a random-effects model, and the statistical analysis was performed using Stata software version 17., Results: Out of a total of 4,054 records, only five articles were selected for inclusion in the meta-analysis. All of these chosen studies utilized a retrospective design. Furthermore, it's worth noting that all of the studies included were of high quality. In five studies involving 3,359 cannabis users and 10,437 non-users, no significant difference in NLR was found (WMD: 0.12 [-0.16, 0.41], I2: 39.89%). Subgroup analysis on healthy and schizophrenia participants didn't show significant NLR differences (p=0.76). Secondary analysis revealed cannabis users had higher Platelet-to-Lymphocyte Ratio (PLR) (67.80 [44.54, 91.06]), neutrophil count (0.68 [0.25, 1.12]), white blood cell count (0.92 [0.43, 1.41]), monocyte count (0.11 [0.05, 0.16]), and Systemic Immune Inflammation Index (SII) (83.48 [5.92, 157.04]) compared to non-users., Conclusion: Our systematic review and meta-analysis reveal that cannabis use may affect NLR and hematologic parameters, suggesting a potential immune impact. Complex associations exist, requiring further research. Schizophrenia and pro-inflammatory factors are discussed, highlighting the need for ongoing investigation into cannabis-related immune changes and mental health., Systematic Review Registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42023463539., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2024 Moshfeghinia, Najibi, Moradi, Assadian and Ahmadi.)

Background: The utilization of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is experiencing a global surge, accompanied by the adoption of national CAM policies in numerous countries. Traditional Persian medicine (TPM) is highly used as CAM in Iran, and the ongoing scientific evaluation of its interventions and the implementation of evidence-based medicine (EBM) encounters various barriers. Therefore, comprehending the characteristics and interactions of stakeholders is pivotal in advancing EBM within TPM policies. In this study, we utilized both classical stakeholder analysis and social network analysis to identify key stakeholders and potential communication patterns, thereby promoting EBM in TPM policy-making., Methods: A cross-sectional nationwide stakeholder analysis was conducted in 2023 using snowball sampling. The interviews were carried out using a customized version of the six building blocks of health. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews. Stakeholders were assessed based on five factors (power, interest, influence, position, and competency). The connections and structure of the network were analyzed using degree, betweenness, closeness centrality, and modularity index to detect clusters of smaller networks., Results: Among twenty-three identified stakeholders, the Ministry of Health and Medical Education (MOHME) and the Public were the most powerful and influential. The Iranian Academy of Medical Sciences was the most competent stakeholder. Social network analysis revealed a low density of connections among stakeholders. Pharmaceutical companies were identified as key connectors in the network, while the Public, supreme governmental bodies, and guilds acted as gatekeepers or brokers. The MOHME and Maraji were found to be high-ranking stakeholders based on four different centrality measures., Conclusion: This study identifies powerful stakeholders in the network and emphasizes the need to engage uninterested yet significant stakeholders. Recommendations include improving competence through education, strengthening international relations, and fostering stronger relationships. Engaging key connectors and gatekeepers is essential for bridging gaps in the network., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Background: Nasal surgeries, addressing anatomical variations for form and function, require careful anesthesia administration, including dexmedetomidine and remifentanil. This meta-analysis evaluates their safety and efficacy variations in nasal surgeries, emphasizing patient comfort and optimal outcomes., Methods: Four electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and CINAHL Complete) were searched for records in English. Studies that measure the effect of dexmedetomidine versus remifentanil on patients underwent nasal surgery were included. The Cochrane Collaboration's tool was used to assess the quality of the included studies. A random-effect model was preferred and statistical analysis was performed by Stata software version 17., Results: Out of an initial pool of 63 articles, five studies were selected for this analysis. All of these chosen studies were Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs). The meta-analysis involved a total of 302 participants, with 152 in the remifentanil group and 150 in the dexmedetomidine group. The analysis aimed to compare the effects of Dexmedetomidine and Remifentanil on heart rate (HR) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) during surgery. Both groups exhibited similar MAP and HR, with the exception of a slightly lower HR in the remifentanil group at the 15th minute of surgery (Standardized Mean Difference: -0.24 [-0.83, 0.34]). Furthermore, when evaluating the impact of these medications on post-surgery outcomes, including pain levels, the use of pain relief medications, patient-surgeon satisfaction, agitation scores, and recovery time, no significant differences were observed between the two medications in any of these aspects., Conclusion: In summary, the study compared Dexmedetomidine and Remifentanil in nasal surgeries anesthesia. No significant differences were found in heart rate, blood pressure, satisfaction, pain, agitation, or recovery time. The study had limitations, and future research should establish standardized protocols and consider various surgical factors., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Background: The prevalence of tobacco use among various cancer types in Iran remains a significant concern, necessitating a comprehensive analysis to understand the extent and patterns of consumption. This study aimed to systematically review and analyze existing literature to delineate the prevalence of tobacco use across different cancer types in Iran, thereby providing a robust basis for future interventions and policy formulations., Methods: Adhering to the PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of literature available in PubMed and Scopus databases. The initial search identified 351 records, out of which 44 studies were selected based on their relevance and design. These studies spanned various time frames, starting from the 2001s up until 2022, and encompassed diverse geographical locations and cancer types in Iran. To avoid bias and potential data overlap, we opted to incorporate a single comprehensive study from the Golestan Cohort, encompassing all data, while excluding 10 other studies. Our final analysis incorporated data from 34 studies, which accounted for 15,425 patients and 5,890 reported smokers. Statistical analyses were performed to calculate the overall proportion of tobacco consumption and to conduct subgroup analyses based on different variables such as cancer types, gender, geographical locations, and types of tobacco used., Results: The analysis revealed a substantial prevalence of tobacco use among cancer patients in Iran, with an overall consumption rate of 43%. This rate varied significantly, ranging from 10 to 88% across individual studies. Subgroup analyses further highlighted disparities in tobacco consumption rates across different demographics, geographic areas, and cancer types. Notably, the 'ever' smokers category exhibited the highest prevalence of tobacco use. The study also identified a worrying trend of high cigarette smoking rates, along with variable consumption patterns of other forms of tobacco, including waterpipe, 'Naas', and 'Pipe'., Conclusions: This systematic review and meta-analysis underscores a significant association between tobacco consumption and various cancer types in Iran, with a prevalence rate among cancer patients being three times higher than the average Iranian population. The findings indicate substantial heterogeneity in tobacco use patterns, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to address this pressing health issue. The study serves as a critical resource for shaping future policies and strategies aimed at curbing tobacco use and mitigating its adverse effects on cancer prevalence in Iran., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Introduction: Cancer is one of the leading causes of mortality in the world which imposes numerous psychological burdens on the patients. Psycho-spiritual interventions such as meaning-based therapies may help decrease these challenges. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to investigate the effects of meaning-based psychotherapy on post-traumatic growth and death anxiety of patients with cancer., Methods: PubMed, Scopus, Proquest, Web of Science, and Google Scholar were searched until 30 September 2023. The Cochrane Collaboration's tool was used to assess the quality of the included studies. A random-effect model was preferred, and statistical analysis was performed by STATA software version 17., Results: A total of 17 studies were included in the systematic review. Eleven articles examined the impact of meaning-based interventions on death anxiety and six articles examined post-traumatic growth in cancer patients. Ten studies with a total of 555 participants were included for analysis of the effect of logotherapy versus routine care on death anxiety. Analysis showed a significant decrease effect of logotherapy versus routine care on death anxiety (SMD, - 4.05 (- 6.20, - 1.90); I 2 , 98.38%). Three studies with a total of 364 participants were included for analysis of the effect of logotherapy versus routine care on post-traumatic growth in patients with cancer. Analysis showed a positive but non-significant effect of logotherapy versus routine care on post-traumatic growth (SMD, 2.05 (- 0.91, 5.01); I 2 , 99.08%)., Conclusion: The qualitative analysis showed the positive impact of meaning-based psychotherapy interventions on death anxiety and post-traumatic growth in cancer patients, but the results of the meta-analysis on post-traumatic growth were not statistically significant. The review shows the need for more clinical trial studies in larger and more diverse samples in terms of cancer types and cultural background., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.)

Background: Catatonia presents itself as a complex neuropsychiatric syndrome, giving rise to various motor, speech, and behavioral challenges. It is noteworthy that approximately 10% of psychiatric hospital admissions can be attributed to this condition. It is imperative to note that cannabis-induced catatonia, while infrequent, has been linked to the use of marijuana. This connection has the potential to disrupt neurotransmitter systems, necessitating further research for a comprehensive understanding and effective treatment, particularly given the evolving trends in cannabis use. In this context, we shall delve into a unique case of recurrent cannabis-induced catatonia., Case Presentation: A 23-year-old gentleman, who has previously struggled with substance use disorder, experienced the emergence of mutism, social isolation, and a fixed gaze subsequent to his use of cannabis. Remarkably, despite the absence of hallucinations, he exhibited recurrent episodes of catatonia. These episodes were effectively addressed through a combination of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and lorazepam administration. Notably, when the lorazepam dosage was gradually reduced to below 2 mg per day, the catatonic symptoms resurfaced; however, they promptly abated upon reinstating the medication. The diagnosis of cannabis-induced catatonia was established, and its management primarily involved a therapeutic approach encompassing ECT and lorazepam. It is pertinent to underscore that this catatonic condition can be directly linked to the individual's cannabis usage., Conclusion: The connection between cannabis and catatonia is intricate and not entirely comprehended. Although cannabis possesses therapeutic advantages, it can paradoxically trigger catatonia in certain individuals. Multiple factors, such as genetics, cannabinoids, and neurotransmitter systems, contribute to this intricacy, underscoring the necessity for additional research., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2024 Moshfeghinia, Hosseinzadeh, Mostafavi, Jabbarinejad, Malekpour, Chohedri and Ahmadi.)

Introduction: Telomeres protect the ends of chromosomes, and shorter leukocyte telomeres are associated with major group diseases. Maternal psychological stress may be related to the shortening of telomeres in infants. This systematic review and meta-analysis set out to consolidate the varying effect sizes found in studies of maternal psychological stress and telomere length (TL) in newborns and identify moderators of the relationship between stress during pregnancy and newborn TL., Methods: Our systematic review was registered in Prospero. Six databases (PubMed, Scopus, Embase, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and CINAHL Complete) were searched for records in English from inception to February 10, 2023. Observational studies were included that measured the relationship of psychological stress of the mother during pregnancy on the TL of the newborn. The Newcastle-Ottawa quality assessment scale was used to assess the quality of the included studies. A random-effect model was selected. Statistical analysis performed by Stata software version 17., Results: Eight studies were included for qualitative and four for quantitative analysis. There was an inverse statistically significant relationship between maternal stress and newborn TL; A one score increase in maternal psychological stress resulted in a 0.04 decrease in the TL of the newborn (B = -0.04, 95% CI = [-0.08, 0.00], p = 0.05). Selectivity analysis showed that the pooled effect size was sensitive to one study; After removing this study, the pooled effect size remained significant (B = -0.06, 95% CI = [-0. 10, -0.02], p < 0.001)., Conclusion: Physiological and environmental factors can significantly affect the TL of newborns. Our results support a significant impact of maternal psychological stress on the TL of a newborn. This association demonstrates the significance of stress in influencing the telomere length, which can be a contributing factor in the infant's future. Therefore, recognizing this association is crucial for understanding and addressing potential health risks and necessitates the need for additional future studies to validate our findings., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

Background: Arthropathy is a common complication in patients with hemophilia. We examined the prevalence of this skeletal complication in patients with hemophilia who were registered at a Comprehensive Hemophilia Center in Shiraz, Southern Iran., Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, an orthopedic specialist visited 448 patients and conducted screenings for skeletal complications. The assessment included evaluating the type of hemophilia, disease severity, treatment modality, the presence of inhibitors, and the identification of skeletal complications., Results: Ninety patients with hemophilia A, with a mean age (SD) of 31.6 (14.4) years, and 10 patients with hemophilia B, with a mean age of 30.5 (20.6) years, were assessed. The most frequently affected joints were the knee and ankle joints. In the univariate analysis, patients with severe disease were more likely to exhibit synovitis, a target joint, and bone disease compared to patients with non-severe disease. Additionally, a history of treated or active hepatitis and an annual bleeding rate showed significant associations with the target joint. In the multivariable logistic regression analysis, disease severity (OR 14.43, 95% CI 1.6-129.6) and a higher age at diagnosis (OR 1.06, 95% CI 1.00-1.13) increased the likelihood of developing osteoporosis. A history of hepatitis (OR 3.67, 95% CI 1.28-10.48) was identified as an independent risk factor for the target joint., Conclusion: Skeletal complications are a common occurrence in hemophilia. Regular consultations with orthopedic specialists, focusing on bleeding control and hepatitis prevention, are essential for reducing the impact of this debilitating complication., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

Introduction: Fibromyalgia (FM) is a chronic pain condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) is a non-invasive brain stimulation technique that has shown promise as a potential treatment for FM by modulating pain perception and reducing symptoms, such as fatigue and depression. We aimed to systematically review studies that assess the effect of tDCS on pain reduction in FM patients., Methods: Seven electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, Embase, PsycINFO, Web of Science, Cochrane, and CINAHL Complete) were searched for records in English. Studies that measured the effect of tDCS on pain intensity in FM patients were included. The Cochrane Collaboration's tool was used to assess the quality of the included studies. A random-effect model was preferred, and statistical analysis was performed by Stata software version 17., Results: Twenty studies were included for qualitative, and eleven for quantitative analysis. Out of 664 patients included in the study, 443 were in the stimulation group. The left M1 area was the most common stimulation target (n = 12), and 2 mA was the most common stimulation amplitude (n = 19). The analysis showed that active tDCS significantly reduced pain intensity in FM patients in comparison to the sham group (SMD= -1.55; 95% CI -2.10, -0.99); also, no publication bias was noted., Conclusion: Our systematic review highlights the potential effect of tDCS on the reduction of pain intensity in FM patients. Additionally, this current evidence could suggest that tDCS applied at an intensity of 2mA to the left M1 is the most effective strategy., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

Areca nut (AN) is an addictive substance widely used in different world regions. There are several side effects associated with the use of AN, which have already been reported. However, the reports on hepatotoxicity of AN are sporadic and non-conclusive. In the present case report, we investigated the hepatotoxicity of AN in a four-year-old Iranian girl who was transferred to our medical center with abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and other symptoms such as hematuria, decreased mental status, multiple seizure episodes. After a comprehensive evaluation, it was concluded that these signs and symptoms were all attributed to AN consumption, which was given by her mother to control diarrhea. Eventually, the patient medical conditions were managed successfully, and she survived by intense medical care. In conclusion, we suggest AN should be considered a potential hepatotoxic agent., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no competing interests., (© 2023 The Authors. Clinical Case Reports published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Background: Insomnia is a major health issue, and zolpidem is an effective treatment for insomnia. However, high doses of zolpidem can cause dependence, abuse, and withdrawal symptoms, questioning its advantages., Case Presentation: A 39-year-old woman who has been divorced and unemployed for 2 years was referred to an addiction treatment center with a chief complaint of "seizure-like withdrawal symptoms after consuming high doses of zolpidem (up to 6,000 mg per day) for a decade." These symptoms were in the form of body tremors, nystagmus, stress, anxiety, hot flashes, and sweaty palms. She has been undergoing detoxification by clonazepam for almost 2 months. Except for the first few days, she did not have any withdrawal symptoms, and her insomnia caused by zolpidem has improved., Conclusion: Chronic abuse of zolpidem can cause dependence, withdrawal symptoms, and abuse. High doses can lead to extreme cravings and dependence. Physicians must manage the withdrawal process., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2023 Moshfeghinia, Jazi, Kabaranzadghadim, Malekpour and Oji.)

Key Clinical Message: ERCP is a safe and effective method for managing biliary obstruction in children. A case report illustrates successful removal of a bile duct stone in a 5-year-old child using ERCP. Pediatric ERCP is a viable option for treating biliary diseases in well-equipped centers, alongside other approaches., Abstract: We describe a 5-year-old child with extrahepatic biliary stone who successfully underwent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography for stone removal. He suffered from persistent colicky abdominal pain accompanied by fever that confirmed biliary stone. ERCP along with other methods, can be considered a safe procedure for managing BD in children., Competing Interests: All authors declare that this manuscript has no conflict of interest., (© 2023 The Authors. Clinical Case Reports published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Purpose: The aim of the current study was to systematically review the literature on establishing epilepsy care centers in resource-limited nations in the world and to provide a comprehensive roadmap on this significantly needed endeavor. This work may provide guidance on how to develop an epilepsy care center in other resource-limited places in the world., Methods: Web of science, Science Direct, and MEDLINE (accessed from PubMed) from inception to March 2023 were systematically searched for relevant published manuscripts. In all electronic databases, the following search strategy was implemented and these key words were used (title/abstract): epilepsy AND resource. The inclusion criteria were all original studies and articles written in English., Results: We could identify nine manuscripts on how to successfully establish an epilepsy care center in resource-limited countries. Two models were identified for such an endeavor: developing a team of trained healthcare professionals (e.g., in Iran, India, China, Vietnam) or a twin affiliation between an advanced epilepsy surgery program in a developed country and a starting program in a developing country (e.g., in Georgia, Tunisia)., Conclusion: In order to successfully establish an epilepsy care center in resource-limited countries four pillars are needed: presence of skillful healthcare professionals, having access to basic investigative technologies (i.e., MRI and EEG), a careful planning, and raising awareness., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest Ali A. Asadi-Pooya: Honoraria from Cobel Daruo; Royalty: Oxford University Press (Book publication); Grant from the National Institute for Medical Research Development. Others: none., (Copyright © 2023 British Epilepsy Association. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Background: Frontotemporal disorders (FTD) are the consequence of impairment to neurons in the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. Also, no definitive treatment has been found for FTD. Cannabinoid products can be used to manage treatment-resistant behavioral variants of Frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD)., Case Presentation: We describe the case of 34 years old male with two years of marijuana abuse. At first, he presented with symptoms of apathy and bizarre behavior, which became more severe, and led to disinhibition. The clinical symptoms and imaging findings made FTD probable for him, which was very interesting to report., Conclusions: While cannabis has demonstrated potential in managing behavioral and mental symptoms of dementia, the presented case highlights the profound impact of cannabis consumption on brain structure and chemistry, including the potential for neurodegenerative disorders like FTD., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

Objectives: Exposure to air pollution has destructive health consequences and a potential role in ovarian cancer etiology. We conducted a systematic review of the studies assessing the associations between ovarian malignancy and exposure to air pollutants., Content: The included studies were categorized based on types of measured ambient air pollutants, including particulate matter (five studies), gases (two studies), air pollutant mixtures (eight studies), and traffic indicators for air pollution (only one study). Because of the heterogeneity of quantitative data of the reviewed studies, we qualitatively reviewed the air pollution role in ovarian cancer risk with representing incidence and/or the mortality rate of ovarian cancer in related with air pollution. Nine studies were ecological study design. Except for one, all studies confirmed a positive correlation between exposure to ambient air pollution (AAP) and increased ovarian cancer risks., Summary: We concluded that prolonged air pollution exposure through possible mechanisms, estrogen-like effects, and genetic mutations might affect ovarian tumorigenesis. This research surveyed the limitations of the previous studies, including issues with ambient air pollution surveillance and assessing the exposure, determining the air pollution sources, data analysis approaches, and study designs., Outlook: Finally, the authors provide suggestions for future environmental epidemiological inquiries on the impact of exposure to ambient air pollution on ovarian malignancy., (© 2022 Walter de Gruyter GmbH, Berlin/Boston.)