Nevin Manimala

J Health Popul Nutr. 2026 Jun 7. doi: 10.1186/s41043-026-01349-z. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: In this study, weemployed classical test theory (CTT) to develop and validate a concise, abbreviated version of the Tuberculosis Medication Adherence Scale (TBMAS-SF). This shortened version aims to provide a more efficient measurement tool for tuberculosis patients while maintaining acceptable psychometric properties.

METHODS: A survey of tuberculosis patients undergoing treatment at the Heilongjiang Provincial Institute of Infectious Disease Control and Prevention was conducted using convenient sampling and the TBMAS. Data analysis was performed using SPSS 26.0 and Amos 24.0. A total of 496 questionnaires were distributed in this study, with 404 valid responses collected, resulting in a valid response rate of 81.45%.

RESULTS: The analysis revealed that the TBMAS-SF demonstrated acceptable reliability, with a Cronbach’s α coefficient of 0.931 and a split-half reliability of 0.739. Confirmatory factor analysis indicated that the TBMAS-SF demonstrated acceptable comparative fit but suboptimal absolute fit, with a chi-square degrees of freedom ratio of 4.981, RMSEA = 0.141, RMR = 0.014 (which is less than 0.05), CFI and IFI values exceeding 0.9, and NFI and TLI values approaching 0.9. There was a statistically significant but modest positive correlation between the TBMAS-SF score and medication literacy score (r = 0.228, p < 0.01), suggesting limited but acceptable empirical validity.

CONCLUSION: The TBMAS-SF demonstrates acceptable internal consistency and promising construct validity, though suboptimal absolute fit indices warrant further refinement and cross-validation.

PMID:42252479 | DOI:10.1186/s41043-026-01349-z

J Ethnobiol Ethnomed. 2026 Jun 7. doi: 10.1186/s13002-026-00913-5. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Agricultural production continues to face critical problems, including persistent pest invasion, a lack of modern farm inputs, and climate change. Non-chemical pest control practices are vital, as they signify both cultural and practically embedded assets for sustainable agricultural practices in resource-limited environments. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the utilization of non-chemical pest control practices among agro-pastoralist farmers in the Gambella region of Ethiopia.

METHODS: A mixed research design was used to assess the utilization of non-chemical pest control practices among farmers from a total sample size (n = 274). The purposive sampling technique was used to select kebelles, and the systematic random sampling technique was used to select the target households. Primary data were collected from the sample respondents using structured questionnaires, key informant interviews, focus group discussions, and direct observations. Secondary data were collected from the documented sources. Frequency, percentage, chi-square, H-test, and ordinal logit model were used for quantitative data analysis, while thematic analysis was employed for qualitative data.

RESULTS: The common non-chemical pest control practices used by farmers were the application of ash (49.6%), crop rotation and intercropping (16.4%), use of neem extract (13.5%), physical removal of pests (10.2%), timing of planting based on the pest cycle (6.6%), and the use of chili or tobacco spray (3.7%). The ordinal logit model showed that farmers level of education negatively and significantly influenced the utilization of such practices (p < 0.01), and farmland ownership was positively and statistically associated with farmers non-chemical pest management systems (p < 0.01). The crops cultivated also showed a positive and statistically significant association with farmers’ utilization of the practices (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS: This study concludes that the implementation of non-chemical pest control practices is shaped by socioeconomic and farmland-level factors rather than being regularly practiced across all households. Therefore, improving the application of locally available pest management systems with appropriate agricultural support should strengthen sustainable pest control and enhance farmland resilience in the Gambella region.

PMID:42252462 | DOI:10.1186/s13002-026-00913-5

Harm Reduct J. 2026 Jun 7. doi: 10.1186/s12954-026-01481-3. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVES: The ongoing toxic drug crisis in Canada, driven largely by fentanyl proliferation, has led to ever-escalating overdose rates. The Safer Alternatives for Emergency Response (SAFER) program was launched in Vancouver, British Columbia (BC) in 2021 to reduce overdose risk by offering prescribed pharmaceutical alternatives, including fentanyl medications. This study aimed to evaluate satisfaction and the program’s perceived impact on health and social outcomes among SAFER participants.

METHODS: Data were collected from 78 SAFER participants through baseline interviewer-administered questionnaires. The primary outcome was self-reported changes in drug use, health status and social outcomes. Descriptive statistics summarized participant characteristics and outcomes.

RESULTS: Among 78 participants, with 22 (28%) identifying as women or gender diverse, 76% reported reduced drug use, while 71% experienced reductions in drug cravings/withdrawal and overdose risk, respectively. Safer drug-use behaviours were also reported: 56% reported that they were more likely to use sterile equipment, 37% said they were more likely to check their drugs, and 35% said they were more likely to carry naloxone. Improvements in overall physical health (58%), mental health (63%), financial stability (55%), and social connections (49%) were also noted. High satisfaction with services was reported (78%), although 71% suggested improvements, including extended hours, easier access to carry doses, and expanded medication options.

DISCUSSION: These findings indicate that the SAFER program is perceived as effective in reducing overdose risk and improving health and social outcomes. However, barriers such as service accessibility and limited medication options remain. Addressing these concerns could enhance program outcomes. Further large-scale research is recommended to confirm these results and explore long-term impacts.

PMID:42252457 | DOI:10.1186/s12954-026-01481-3

BMC Psychol. 2026 Jun 8. doi: 10.1186/s40359-026-04956-x. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: This study examined the relationship between work-family conflict and professional identity among young faculty in Chinese higher education institutions. It also tested the indirect role of mindful teaching and the moderating role of work-family support. The study further explored the different gender patterns of indirect and moderating effects.

METHODS: Data were collected from 505 young university faculty using the Work-Family Conflict Scale, Mindfulness in Teaching Scale, Teacher Professional Identity Scale, and Work-Family Support Scale. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and hierarchical regression.

RESULTS: (1) Work-family conflict exhibited a significant negative association with young faculty’s professional identity. (2) Mindfulness in teaching (intrapersonal and interpersonal mindfulness) played an indirect role in the relationship between work-family conflict and professional identity. (3) Work-family support moderated the relationships between work-family conflict and mindfulness in teaching/professional identity. When the level of work-family support was higher, the negative association between work-family conflict and mindfulness in teaching/professional identity was weaker. (4) Indirect and moderating effects exhibited distinct gender patterns. For indirect effects, subgroup analyses by gender revealed that, in the male teacher sample, the indirect pathway via interpersonal mindfulness was significant. In contrast, in the female teacher sample, the indirect pathway via intrapersonal mindfulness was significant. For moderating effects, descriptive comparisons between gender subgroups showed that the moderating effect of work-family support had a larger coefficient in the female sample than in the male sample. However, this difference was not formally tested for statistical significance.

CONCLUSIONS: This study offers a new perspective for understanding the occupational psychological well-being of university faculty. Based on these correlational findings, cautious exploration is warranted regarding possible intervention entry points, such as enhancing teachers’ mindfulness levels and building supportive environments, with potential differential emphases for male and female teachers. Nevertheless, further effectiveness testing is required.

PMID:42252452 | DOI:10.1186/s40359-026-04956-x

BMC Urol. 2026 Jun 8. doi: 10.1186/s12894-026-02217-y. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Renal colic is a urologic emergency that presents with characteristic severe pain and is mostly seen in emergency services. The preferred medications are NSAIDs, paracetamol and opioids, but considering the severity of pain, opioid analgesics should be advised. The aim of this study is to determine the relationship between meperidine efficacy and CYP2C19 gene polymorphisms.

METHODS: This prospective observational study was conducted between 01.07.2017 and 01.10.2018 in the Pamukkale University Faculty of Medicine Emergency Department. Our study subjects included 203 patients with renal colic and 102 individuals presenting with abdominal pain but not diagnosed with renal colic were included only for genetic frequency analysis; this group was not included in the intervention safety/efficacy analyses. 203 patients were given 100 mg of meperidine and observed 60 min later, and vital signs, laboratory values, etc., were recorded.

RESULTS: The age and sex distributions were similar between the case and control groups. There was no statistically significant difference between the sexes in visual analog scale (VAS) scores at any time (0.min-15.min-30.min-60.min). The normal-activity/rapid metabolizer groups had significantly lower 30- and 60-min VAS scores than did the moderate-activity groups. The percentages of VAS decreases at 30 and 60 min from baseline were significantly greater in the normal-activity rapid metabolizer group than in the moderate-activity group. This study revealed that the efficacy of the drug was not affected by age, sex or stone location. The VAS score decreased significantly at all time intervals. Additionally, the decrease in the VAS score between 0 and 15 min after drug administration was similar in each genotype group, but after 30 min, it was remarkable for the CYP2C19 1/1 genotype. During follow-up, 11 patients had drug-related adverse events (most commonly nausea and dizziness). No serious events occurred, and no additional interventions or hospitalizations were required.

CONCLUSIONS: This study suggested that the effectiveness of meperidine in treating renal colic may be influenced by the genetic polymorphism of CYP2C19 in the patient. The pain response was markedly reduced in individuals with the CYP2C19 *1/*1 genotype. The age, sex, and stone localization groups were seemingly comparable with respect to the efficacy of meperidine. It is advisable to consider the genetic profile in individualized treatment approaches, with the aim of increasing drug efficacy and optimizing dose adjustments.

PMID:42252451 | DOI:10.1186/s12894-026-02217-y

J Orthop Surg Res. 2026 Jun 7. doi: 10.1186/s13018-026-07020-x. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The role of capsular management in total hip arthroplasty (THA) performed via the posterolateral approach remains debated, particularly regarding its effects on proprioception, balance, and postoperative stability. While capsular repair may reduce dislocation risk, partial capsular excision may facilitate surgical exposure. This study compared T-capsulotomy with capsular repair and partial capsular excision in terms of proprioception, balance, functional and radiological outcomes, operative time, and complications.

METHODS: A retrospective cohort of 177 patients who underwent primary THA between February 2019 and April 2024 was analyzed. Patients were assigned to either T-capsulotomy with capsular repair (n = 91) or partial capsular excision (n = 86). Proprioception was assessed using the Hip Joint Position Sense test; balance with the Berg Balance Scale; function with the Forgotten Joint Score (FJS-12) and Harris Hip Score (HHS); and pain with the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Radiographic evaluation included acetabular anteversion, inclination, offsets, and leg-length discrepancy. Operative time and postoperative complications were recorded.

RESULTS: No significant differences were found between groups in proprioception, balance, FJS-12, HHS, or VAS scores (p > 0.05). Radiological parameters were similar. Operative time was significantly shorter in the partial excision group (70.5 vs. 80.1 min, p < 0.001). Complications were infrequent, and no dislocations occurred.

CONCLUSIONS: At one-year follow-up, no statistically significant differences were identified between the two capsular management techniques in terms of proprioceptive, functional, and radiological outcomes. Although partial capsular excision shortened operative time, it did not yield superior clinical results. Capsular management may be guided by surgeon preference and intraoperative considerations when accurate component positioning is achieved. Further prospective studies are needed to clarify early postoperative proprioceptive differences and long-term outcomes.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III (retrospective cohort study).

PMID:42252448 | DOI:10.1186/s13018-026-07020-x

J Orthop Surg Res. 2026 Jun 7. doi: 10.1186/s13018-026-07017-6. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The atlantoaxial lateral mass joint is a pivotal structure facilitating cervical rotation and flexion-extension. Its morphological characteristics are intrinsically linked to degenerative pathologies and segmental instability. However, comprehensive three-dimensional anatomical data, particularly regarding sex-specific variations, remain insufficient. This study aimed to perform precise three-dimensional measurements of the atlantoaxial lateral mass joint in normal adults to elucidate its normative morphological features and sexual dimorphism, which may serve as a morphological reference for future studies exploring surgical planning, personalized implant design, and biomechanical modeling.

METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 200 patients (100 males, 100 females; aged 18-50 years) without cervical abnormalities, using cervical three-dimensional spiral CT images obtained between December 2024 and December 2025. Parameters measured on reconstructed images included the anteroposterior diameter (sagittal plane), left-right diameter (coronal plane), medial inclination angle, joint space width, and distance from the transverse foramen to the lateral mass joint midpoint. Statistical analysis employed independent samples t-tests to evaluate sex differences.

RESULTS: All parameters exhibited significant sex differences (P < 0.05). Males consistently demonstrated significantly larger anatomical dimensions than females across all linear and angular metrics. Notably, these sex-related differences remained significant after adjusting for Body Mass Index (BMI) via ANCOVA (P < 0.05), indicating that the observed dimorphism reflects intrinsic biological traits rather than overall body habitus.

CONCLUSION: This study systematically quantifies the three-dimensional anatomy of the atlantoaxial lateral mass joint and confirms significant sexual dimorphism.These findings offer morphological context that may be relevant when investigating atlantoaxial pathologies and provide anatomical baseline data for future research concerning personalized fusion device design, surgical navigation, and finite element simulations.

PMID:42252441 | DOI:10.1186/s13018-026-07017-6

BMC Med Educ. 2026 Jun 8. doi: 10.1186/s12909-026-09574-0. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Specific learning disabilities (SpLDs)-including dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, and dyspraxia-affect approximately 5-8% of medical students. The demands of medical education may exacerbate these challenges, while stigma and inconsistent institutional support contribute to ongoing barriers. This mixed-methods systematic review synthesised evidence on prevalence, academic performance, challenges, and support needs to inform more inclusive medical education practices.

METHODS: A mixed-methods systematic review was conducted following Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology and PRISMA 2020 guidelines. PubMed and EBSCOhost were searched in October 2024. Primary studies on undergraduate medical students with formally diagnosed SpLDs were included. Fifteen studies met the inclusion criteria (eight quantitative, seven qualitative). Quantitative data were synthesised using meta-analysis and narrative approaches, qualitative data using meta-aggregation, and findings were integrated using a convergent segregated approach.

RESULTS: The prevalence of SpLDs among medical students ranged from 2% to 11.5% (mean 5.5%). Meta-analysis of three studies showed no statistically significant difference in multiple-choice assessment performance between students with and without SpLDs when accommodations, most commonly additional examination time, were provided (standardised mean difference d = 0.045; 95% CI: -0.094 to 0.183), although evidence was limited and context-dependent. Evidence for other assessment formats was inconsistent, with some indication of lower performance. Qualitative findings identified persistent academic challenges and psychosocial impacts, alongside unmet support needs, including early identification, flexible assessment design, structured mentoring, and increased staff awareness.

CONCLUSIONS: Limited quantitative evidence suggests that medical students with SpLDs may achieve comparable performance in some accommodated MCQ-based assessments, but findings remain context-dependent. Qualitative findings consistently indicate substantial additional effort, emotional burden, and systemic barriers, suggesting that comparable outcomes may not necessarily reflect equitable learning conditions. More inclusive, flexible, and proactive educational approaches are needed to support equity, inclusion, and wellbeing in medical education.

PMID:42252431 | DOI:10.1186/s12909-026-09574-0

BMC Musculoskelet Disord. 2026 Jun 8. doi: 10.1186/s12891-026-10031-8. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

AIMS: Augmented reality-assisted intraoperative navigation (ARIN) has recently emerged as a novel technology intended to improve intraoperative accuracy and workflow in reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA). This study evaluated the impact of ARIN on early complications and revisions, glenoid baseplate inclination and fixation, fluoroscopy time, and surgical duration.

METHODS: Two hundred three primary RSAs were retrospectively analyzed: 72 performed with ARIN and 131 freehand. The primary outcome was 90-day complications and revisions. Secondary outcomes were baseplate inclination (RSA angle on true AP radiographs), number and length of peripheral screws, fluoroscopy time, and surgical duration.

RESULTS: No statistically significant differences were observed between the ARIN and freehand groups regarding complications (3% vs. 9.4%, p = .139), revisions (3% vs. 8.5%, p = .216), or dislocations (1.5% vs. 3.4%, p = .655). Baseplate inclination was significantly closer to neutral in the ARIN group (4.6° ± 7° vs. 11.6° ± 8.1°, p < .001), and superior inclination > 10° was significantly less frequent (18.8% vs. 55.6%, p < .001). Significantly fewer screws were used for baseplate fixation (2.1 ± 0.4 vs. 3.2 ± 0.9, p < .001), which were significantly longer (33.7 ± 6.3 mm vs. 25.6 ± 7.8 mm, p < .001). Fluoroscopy time (19.7 ± 15.4 s vs. 45.9 ± 37.1 s, p < .001) and operative duration (104.1 ± 27.3 min vs. 113.4 ± 35.3 min, p = .038) were also significantly shorter with ARIN.

CONCLUSION: ARIN in RSA was associated with improvements in glenoid baseplate inclination, screw placement, intraoperative fluoroscopy time, and surgical duration, while no statistically significant differences in early complication, dislocation, or revision rates were observed compared with the conventional freehand technique. Larger studies with greater statistical power and longer follow-up are warranted to determine potential long-term clinical benefits.

EVIDENCE LEVEL AND STUDY DESIGN: Level of evidence III; retrospective comparative study.

PMID:42252430 | DOI:10.1186/s12891-026-10031-8

BMC Microbiol. 2026 Jun 8. doi: 10.1186/s12866-026-05257-4. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) constitute a major global public health concern. These organisms can colonize the gastrointestinal (GI) tract for prolonged periods, ranging from months to years, and efforts to eradicate colonization are often only temporarily effective, with recurrence occurring within days or weeks. In immunocompromised individuals, particularly people living with HIV, VRE colonization may progress to clinically significant infection. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of VRE colonization and identify associated risk factors among HIV-positive patients attending Mettu Karl Comprehensive Specialized Hospital.

METHODS: A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted from July to September 2023 among 308 participants. Socio-demographic and clinical data were collected using a pretested structured questionnaire and a standardized checklist. Stool samples were collected for the isolation and identification of Enterococci using standard microbiological methods. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion technique. Data were entered into Epi Data version 3.1 and analyzed using SPSS version 26. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were employed to assess the association between presumptive VRE colonization and potential risk factors. Variables with adjusted odds ratios (AORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to determine the strength of associations, and a p-value of ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS: Enterococci were found in 56.8% (175 out of 308) of participants, with 9.1% (16 of 175) identified as presumptive VRE. Among HIV-positive individuals, the presumptive VRE colonization rate was 11.2% (11 cases), compared to 6.5% (5 cases) in HIV-negative individuals. Overall, 46.9% of the enterococci isolates showed multidrug resistance (MDR).Being hospitalized within the past six months was significantly associated with presumptive VRE colonization: (AOR = 0.148; 95% CI: 0.031-0.707; p = 0.017).

CONCLUSION: Presumptive VRE colonization rates were 11.2% among HIV-positive individuals and 6.5% among HIV-negative individuals; however, this difference was not statistically significant. Recent hospitalization were significant risk factors. Therefore, stronger antibiotic stewardship and infection control practices are recommended for people living with HIV.

PMID:42252413 | DOI:10.1186/s12866-026-05257-4