Category: Nevin Manimala

J Epidemiol Glob Health. 2025 Jan 27;15(1):9. doi: 10.1007/s44197-025-00354-5.

ABSTRACT

The incidence of thyroid cancer has shown marked increases globally over recent decades. This study investigated how the incidence of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) subtypes and World Health Organisation (WHO) endocrine tumour classification changes have affected overall thyroid cancer incidence recorded in Australia. Using incidence data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare cancer registry (spanning 1982 to 2019), this descriptive epidemiological study employed joinpoint regression analysis to assess temporal trends in thyroid carcinoma incidence, focusing on PTC. Results were then compared with WHO endocrine tumour classification changes over the same period. The results showed increasing trends for the classic PTC subtype over the entire 38-year period and for thyroid microcarcinomas post-2003, while a declining trend for the follicular variant of PTC was observed commencing in 2015. Examination of PTC incidence also revealed distinct changes in trends that align with the WHO classification of papillary microcarcinoma as a subtype in 2004 and the reclassification of some encapsulated follicular variant of PTCs to non-invasive follicular thyroid neoplasms with papillary-like nuclear features (NIFTP) in 2016/17. Even when taking these WHO classification changes into account, significant increases in PTC over the last three decades are observed. These findings underscore the shifts in classification driven by improving diagnostic clarity influencing thyroid carcinoma incidence patterns. However, thyroid carcinoma cases in Australia have dramatically increased over the last three decades independent of WHO classification changes, suggesting a genuine increase rather than simply being a direct consequence of improved reporting and diagnostics.

PMID:39869269 | DOI:10.1007/s44197-025-00354-5

Lasers Med Sci. 2025 Jan 27;40(1):48. doi: 10.1007/s10103-024-04272-z.

ABSTRACT

The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of different types of low level laser treatment (LLLT) in reducing pain levels, changing oxygen saturation and bite force in patients with myofacial pain syndrome (MPS). 45 patients were randomly assigned to three groups: Group 1 (GRR laser, n = 15) received LLLT with Gallium-Aluminium-Arsenide (GaAlAs) diode laser with a wavelength of 904 nm and red laser with a wavelength of 650 nm over masseter muscle region. Group 2 (Nd: YAG laser, n = 15) were treated with Neodymium-doped Yttrium Aluminium Garnet laser with a wavelength of 1064 nm and the same protocol with Nd: YAG laser was performed in the Group 3 (placebo, n = 15) using sham device. Pain was evaluated by visual analogue scale (VAS), change in oxygen concentration in the masseter muscle was measured by functional near-infrared spectroscopy- fNIRS and bite force was measured with Flexiforce sensors before and after treatment. There was a significant decrease in VAS scores after treatment in all three groups. When pain scores were compared, a greater reduction was seen in the Group 1 and Group 2. The change in oxygen saturation level was not statistically significant in all three groups (p > 0.05). Bite force values showed a significant decrease in treatment groups (p < 0.05), while there was no significant change in the placebo group (p > 0.05). Nd: YAG and GRR laser treatments were effective in reducing the pain caused by MPS and in reducing bite force values. Clinically, GRR laser system provides more effective results with its regional and practical application. ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT06442553.

PMID:39869221 | DOI:10.1007/s10103-024-04272-z

Arch Gynecol Obstet. 2025 Jan 27. doi: 10.1007/s00404-024-07906-3. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: The objective of this study is to evaluate the impact of pelvic floor physical therapy (PFPT) on symptoms and quality of life in women who experienced third- and fourth-degree perineal tears (Obstetric Anal Sphincter Injuries, OASIS) during childbirth. OASIS can lead to anal incontinence and dyspareunia, having important implications regarding the quality of life and health of women but, unfortunately, there is no standard practice for postpartum care following OASIS.

METHODS: In this retrospective observational study, patients diagnosed with OASIS between January 2016 and June 2023 were enrolled. Since 2016, all women with OASIS have been routinely referred for physiatric evaluation and pelvic floor rehabilitation. Validated questionnaires (Wexner score and Marinoff scale) were administered to enrolled women to assess anal incontinence and dyspareunia.

RESULTS: The study included 148 women, of whom 88 responded to the questionnaires. Participants were divided into two groups: those who underwent PFPT (N = 68) and those who declined it (N = 20). The mean follow-up period was 1447.35 days. The Wexner score was lower in the PFPT group compared to the no-PFPT group (p = 0.050). The Marinoff score did not show a statistically significant difference between the two groups (p = 0.381).

CONCLUSION: PFPT was shown to be effective in reducing AI symptoms in women with OASIS, improving quality of life and maintaining its effects in the long term, but without providing benefits for dyspareunia. Strengths of this study include the use of validated questionnaires, the long follow-up period, and the involvement of a specialized team of physiatrists and physiotherapists.

PMID:39869199 | DOI:10.1007/s00404-024-07906-3

Eur J Trauma Emerg Surg. 2025 Jan 27;51(1):84. doi: 10.1007/s00068-024-02692-8.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the NEXUS Chest CT ALL decision instrument (DI) in reducing unnecessary chest CT imaging in minor blunt trauma patients while preserving high sensitivity for detecting clinically meaningful injuries. Additionally, we examined the impact of delayed presentation, chronic disease, and anticoagulation/anti-aggregation medications on trauma outcomes.

METHODS: This retrospective study included 853 adult minor blunt trauma patients who underwent chest CT in the emergency department (ED) of Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center between 2018 and 2022. Clinically meaningful outcomes were defined as trauma-related interventions or hospital admissions. The NEXUS Chest CT DI criteria, along with three additional criteria, were analyzed using logistic regression to identify independent predictors for the primary outcome. These predictors formed a modified DI, and its performance was compared to the original NEXUS DI.

RESULTS: Among 853 patients (median age 44.5 years, 64.2% male), 230 (27.0%) had trauma-related chest CT findings, and 64 (7.5%) experienced clinically meaningful outcomes. Independent predictors included abnormal chest X-ray (aOR 6.5, p < 0.001), chronic disease (aOR 5.2, p < 0.001), sternal tenderness (aOR 4.7, p = 0.007), rapid deceleration (aOR 3.7, p < 0.001), and chest wall tenderness (aOR 3.1, p < 0.001). The NEXUS DI achieved 92.1% sensitivity, reducing imaging by 41.3%, while the modified DI increased sensitivity to 98.4% with a 34.3% imaging reduction.

CONCLUSIONS: The NEXUS Chest CT ALL DI significantly reduces unnecessary imaging while maintaining high diagnostic precision. A modified version enhances sensitivity, refining decision-making in emergency care. Integrating such decision tools, particularly in cases of minor trauma, is highly recommended to optimize resource use and improve patient outcomes.

PMID:39869184 | DOI:10.1007/s00068-024-02692-8

Eur J Trauma Emerg Surg. 2025 Jan 27;51(1):85. doi: 10.1007/s00068-025-02766-1.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Electrical injuries (EIs) represent a significant clinical challenge due to their complex pathophysiology and variable presentation, ranging from minor burns to severe internal organ damage. Despite their prevalence in both; domestic and occupational settings, there remains a rareness of systematic guidelines and comprehensive literature to aid clinicians in effectively managing these injuries. Understanding these factors is crucial for developing protocols that can mitigate the risk of delayed complications, such as cardiac arrhythmias, in patients who initially appear stable.

OBJECTIVES: This study aims to elucidate the epidemiology, clinical outcomes, and predictors of severe presentation in EIs, providing insights to improve patient assessment and management strategies.

METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted over 4 years. Data were collected from standardized medical records. The group of patients with severe complications included those who presented a life-threatening cardiac, respiratory, neurological, or biological impairment or died within the first 48 h of the EI.

RESULTS: We enrolled 118 cases of electrical injury (EI). Ages ranged from 4 to 82 years, with 31.3% under 15. EI incidence peaked in summer, with 63.5% being home accidents. High-voltage injuries occurred in 13.6%. The most common ED complaints were burns in children (59.5%) and trauma in adults (48.1%). ECG abnormalities correlated with tetany (p = 0.016), and palpitations (p = 0.014). Complications included cardiac arrest (n = 8), rhabdomyolysis (n = 23), and acute renal injury (n = 9). Severe EI was linked to respiratory distress and creatine kinase levels higher than ≥ 253 UI/l. A normal ECG within 1 h post-injury was correlated to a low risk of severe EI. At 2-year follow-up, 43.9% of survivors reported aesthetic sequelae, 25.3% had psychological disorders, and 7% of adults could not return to their previous occupations.

CONCLUSION: EIs are frequent, with diverse clinical presentations requiring multidisciplinary care. Awareness of potential delayed complications is essential, and prevention is crucial.

PMID:39869174 | DOI:10.1007/s00068-025-02766-1

Environ Geochem Health. 2025 Jan 27;47(2):59. doi: 10.1007/s10653-025-02359-2.

ABSTRACT

The accumulation pattern of some inorganic pollutants in quarry sites around Ogun State was modeled using a Fuzzy comprehensive assessment (FCA). Potentially toxic elements (PTEs) and naturally occurring radionuclides materials (NORMs) were assessed from soil samples collected from ten quarry sites in three districts (Odeda, Ajebo, and Ijebu Ode) in Ogun State. Three (3) NORMs (⁴⁰ K, ²³⁸U, ^{and 232}Th) were assessed using gamma spectrometer with a NaI detector while ten (10) PTEs (As, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn) were determined by digestion method using Inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrophotometer. The FCA was used to evaluate soil contamination, and SPSS version 21.0 was used for statistical analysis. Concentration range of PTEs(mg/kg) and NORMs(Bq/kg) in all the site are: As (5.62 ± 0.85 – 15.93 ± 2.40), Cd (BDL-1.26 ± 0.60), Co (5.56 ± 1.34 – 27.25 ± 1.14), Cr (18.68 ± 1.54 -61.43 ± 6.33), Cu (12.40 ± 1.31-82.43 ± 7.94), Fe (15,035.00 ± 81.12 – 36,520.00 ± 292.20), Mn (168.97 ± 5.93 – 353.30 ± 20.84), Ni (5.63 ± 1.99- 25.54 ± 2.50),),Pb (4.44 ± 0.8 – 17.87 ± 2.80) and Zn (42.97 ± 413 – 147.00 ± 7.50); ⁴⁰ K (76.78 ± 44.76-2647.88 ± 179.44), ²³⁸U (3.24 ± 1.82-55.42 ± 24.88),and ²³²Th (5.24 ± 3.90-244.36 ± 89.84). The results were modeled into a membership function matrix of three pollution classes. The FCA of NORMs revealed that 30, 10, and 60% of the sites were pristine, moderately polluted, and heavily polluted.In comparison, the FCA of PTEs confirmed 100% of the sites to be heavily polluted due to the accumulative effect of the PTEs. A high percentage of membership in the extremely impacted class is linked to a high concentration of Fe in all the sites due to the soil’s geological structure and natural activities. At the same time, ⁴⁰ K and ²³⁸U have high-impact membership in all the quarry sites. Based on the findings, there is a need for stringent pollution control measures, targeted monitoring of PTEs and NORMs and the development of region-specific environmental regulations to protect both public health and ecosystems.

PMID:39869147 | DOI:10.1007/s10653-025-02359-2

J Epidemiol Glob Health. 2025 Jan 27;15(1):8. doi: 10.1007/s44197-025-00345-6.

ABSTRACT

Sleep is influenced by various factors, including social, economic, genetic, and medical factors, and work and study schedules. Medical students are highly susceptible to sleep-related problems. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the sleep patterns and quality of medical students and determine their correlation with academic achievement. This cross-sectional study was conducted at the King Abdulaziz University between November 2022 and April 2023. The participants completed an online questionnaire distributed to all medical students via social media channels. The questionnaire included the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index to assess sleep quality and Epworth Sleepiness Scale to measure excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS). Academic performance was self-reported by students based on their grade point average. Of the 274 participants, 54.0% were males with a mean age of 22.81 years. Only 21.5% of students reported normal sleep quality during the previous month, with almost 78.5% reporting poor sleep quality and 40.9% experiencing EDS. Notably, no associations were observed between the sleep quality and sleep-wake patterns and academic performance of the students (p = 0.324 and 0.784, respectively). These findings highlight the substantial prevalence of poor sleep quality and EDS among Saudi medical students, consistent with global trends. Unexpectedly, no significant correlation was observed between sleep quality and student academic performance. These findings suggest that the demanding nature of medical education significantly impacts the sleep patterns and overall well-being of students.

PMID:39869139 | DOI:10.1007/s44197-025-00345-6

Epilepsia. 2025 Jan 27. doi: 10.1111/epi.18281. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to identify prescribing behaviors in women of childbearing potential (WOCP) with epilepsy already taking valproate (VPA), and to investigate the relationship between VPA maintenance, substitution, reduction, or withdrawal as part of polytherapy, and seizure worsening or relapse.

METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed the prescription behaviors and seizure outcomes in WOCP (16-50 years of age) with epilepsy, referred to eight Italian epilepsy centers, who were taking VPA for at least 1 year between 2014 and 2019.

RESULTS: Among 750 women (~12% of all WOCP), 528 (70.4%) maintained VPA unchanged throughout the observation period, 103 (13.7%) replaced VPA with another antiseizure medication (ASM), 90 (12%) reduced VPA, and 29 (3.9%) discontinued VPA in polytherapy. Focal epilepsy was most strongly associated with VPA withdrawal (odds ratio [OR] 2.96, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.38-6.38), whereas generalized epilepsy was most associated with its non-withdrawal (reduction/switch/maintenance) (OR .31, 95% CI .14-.68). Intellectual disability, higher seizure frequency, and higher VPA doses were linked to VPA continuation. VPA withdrawal from polytherapy was associated with a higher risk of tonic-clonic seizure worsening (OR 2.91, 95% CI 1.09-7.77) compared to non-withdrawal.

SIGNIFICANCE: VPA was rarely withdrawn or substituted in WOCP with epilepsy, in secondary and tertiary care settings following European regulatory restrictions. This likely reflects a population with severe epilepsies where VPA is difficult to replace; whereas women with milder epilepsies likely discontinued VPA earlier, as evidenced by its low overall prescription frequency. Withdrawal of VPA from a polytherapy regimen was associated with a threefold increased risk of seizure exacerbation.

PMID:39869104 | DOI:10.1111/epi.18281

iScience. 2024 Dec 20;28(1):111661. doi: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.111661. eCollection 2025 Jan 17.

ABSTRACT

Recent studies showed that humans, regardless of age, education, and culture, can extract the linear trend of a noisy scatterplot. Although this capacity looks sophisticated, it may simply reflect the extraction of the principal trend of the graph, as if the cloud of dots was processed as an oriented object. To test this idea, we trained Guinea baboons to associate arbitrary shapes with the increasing or decreasing trends of noiseless and noisy scatterplots, while varying the number of points, the noise level, and the regression slope. Many baboons successfully learned this conditional match-to-sample task, and their accuracy varied as a sigmoid function of the t-value of the regression, the same statistical index upon which humans also base their answers. The perceptual component of human graphics abilities seems thus to be based on the recycling of a phylogenetically older competence of the primate visual system for extracting the principal axes of visual displays.

PMID:39868034 | PMC:PMC11761879 | DOI:10.1016/j.isci.2024.111661

Open Res Eur. 2024 Oct 18;4:93. doi: 10.12688/openreseurope.17205.2. eCollection 2024.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The NextFood Project ( www.nextfood-project.eu) started work in 2018 to identify ‘Categories of Skills’ that students should be equipped with to address the upcoming global challenges within agrifood and forestry disciplines, and involved concepts such as sustainability, technological adaptation and networking. This study is based on the initial skills and competencies mapping, but takes a different methodological approach. Instead of investigating what the research literature and professionals think are important skills for the future, this study asks how existing education programmes include or exclude these skills in the description of their programs.

METHODS: Python-based web-scraping scripts were used to collect texts from a selection of European Masters program websites, which were then analysed using statistical tools. A total of 14 countries, 27 universities, 1303 European Masters programs, 3305 web-pages and almost two million words were studied using this approach.

RESULTS: While agrifood and forestry Masters programs were aligned with the NextFood Project ‘Categories of Skills’ equal to or more often than unrelated Masters programs, we found evidence for the relative underuse of words associated with networking skills, such as collaboration, communication and teamwork. Agriculture-related programs used these words the least among the agrifood Masters programs. In contrast, agrifood programs used words associated with sustainability and system thinking more than the non-agrifood Masters programs.

CONCLUSIONS: The informatics approach provides evidence that many European agrifood and forestry Masters programs are following the educational paths for meeting future challenges as outlined by the NextFood Project, with the possible exception of networking skills. This approach allows a complementary and time-efficient overview of the current state of education in the agrifood system in Europe.

PMID:39868028 | PMC:PMC11757921 | DOI:10.12688/openreseurope.17205.2