Nevin Manimala

NCHS Data Brief. 2026 Jan;(549). doi: 10.15620/cdc/174639.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: This report uses 2023-2024 National Vital Statistic System data to present the demographic group and by the type of drugs involved, specifically opioids and stimulants, with a focus on changes from 2023 to 2024.

METHODS: Data from the 2023-2024 NVSS were used for this analysis. Estimates are based on the National Vital Statistics System multiple-cause-of-death mortality files (1). Drug poisoning (overdose) deaths were defined as having an International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision underlying cause-of-death code of X40-X44 (unintentional), X60-X64 (suicide), X85 (homicide), or Y10-Y14 (undetermined intent). Population estimates for 2023-2024 were estimated as of July 1, based on the blended base produced by the U.S. Census Bureau instead of the April 1, 2020, decennial population count. All of the race categories are single race, meaning that only one race was reported on the death certificate.

KEY FINDINGS: The age-adjusted drug overdose death rate decreased between 2022 and 2024, with the largest decrease, 26.2%, occurring from 2023 to 2024, from 31.3 deaths per 100,000 standard population to 23.1. From 2023 to 2024, rates of drug overdose deaths declined for all age groups, with the largest decrease occurring for younger age groups. From 2023 to 2024, rates declined for each race and Hispanic-origin group, with the largest decreases occurring for Black non-Hispanic people. Between 2023 and 2024, the drug overdose death rate involving synthetic opioids other than methadone decreased by 35.6% (from 22.2 to 14.3). Between 2023 and 2024, the rates of drug overdose deaths involving psychostimulants with abuse potential and cocaine both declined.

PMID:41770984 | DOI:10.15620/cdc/174639

IEEE Trans Vis Comput Graph. 2026 Mar 2;PP. doi: 10.1109/TVCG.2026.3667949. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

We develop a probabilistic approach to understanding user preferences for adaptive placement of augmented reality (AR) interfaces in the physical environment through a series of user studies conducted using simulated desktop and virtual reality (VR) environments. From the first online crowdsourcing study and its validation in VR, we derived a set of potential factors behind user preferences for AR interface adaptation by assessing user-created layouts and analysing subjective user feedback. Building on this prior knowledge, we implemented a probabilistic optimisation system to generate adapted AR interfaces. Using generated layout pairs that prioritise different factors, we conducted a second online crowdsourcing study (N = 250) to elicit user preference rating data to quantify posterior probabilities for the weighting coefficients of the factors in the optimisation utility function. Overall, we found that the overall structures of layouts, such as shape and distribution, are more important to users than adapting to specific features of the environment, such as semantic associations between AR widgets and objects in the physical environments. We contribute a statistical model containing probabilistic distributions of different factors as a universal prior model that represents user preferences for AR interface placement that adapts to changing physical environments. Based on the results, we distil concrete guidelines for future adaptive AR interface systems regarding layout consistency, structure, and relationships between virtual widgets and physical objects.

PMID:41770971 | DOI:10.1109/TVCG.2026.3667949

IEEE J Biomed Health Inform. 2026 Mar 2;PP. doi: 10.1109/JBHI.2026.3669176. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Accurate segmentation of lesion in fundus OCT images an assist ophthalmologists to determine the degree of retinopathy and choroidopathy. However, OCT images are often acquired from various manufacturers’ OCT devices, which is challenging for traditional models due to domain shift. In this paper, a novel multi-source domain adaptation framework is designed to address the challenge of segmenting fundus lesions in OCT images acquired from devices produced by different manufacturers with three core methodological innovations: (1) A multi-order moment consistency approach using moment generating function (MGF) to align feature distributions across domains. By approximating multi-order central moments using derivatives of the MGF, our method theoretically enables efficient alignment of high-order statistical features without explicit computation of polynomial expansions. (2) A perturbation-based feature consistency strategy to improve model robustness. By using segmentation and moment losses to guide perturbation generation, our method explicitly links semantic consistency with feature distribution alignment. (3) A population stability whitening technique to separate style-related and content-related features. By analyzing covariance matrix variances across perturbations, our method attempts to automatically separate style and content features. Our method is compared with several state-of-the-art approaches on two datasets, comprising diverse domains collected from various manufacturers’ OCT devices. Experimental results clearly demonstrate the significant superiority of our method.

PMID:41770964 | DOI:10.1109/JBHI.2026.3669176

Genet Epidemiol. 2026 Apr;50(3):e70037. doi: 10.1002/gepi.70037.

ABSTRACT

In the last decade, genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified tens of thousands of common variants associated with a wide array of complex traits and diseases. Integration of GWAS with molecular data has informed the development of statistical tools for causal gene discovery. In this paper, we give an overview of commonly used causal inference methods and discuss the strengths and limitations of colocalization, Mendelian randomization (MR) and network-based approaches. Colocalization is often used to assess whether the genetic association signals for two traits arise from the same causal variant, thereby strengthening inferred causal associations. MR was developed to tackle issues of confounding and reverse causality, providing a rigorous approach to causal inference and demonstrating improved false discovery rates. Unlike MR, network-based analyses employ a discovery approach and model complex relationships between multiple variables. All causal inference methods are, to varying degrees, susceptible to spurious associations due to genetic confounding, pleiotropy and linkage disequilibrium. Here, we discuss the latest developments in the field of causal gene inference and limitations of these methods. We give an overview of interplay between different approaches as well as practical applications with reference to published examples in context of heart disease.

PMID:41770856 | DOI:10.1002/gepi.70037

PLoS One. 2026 Mar 2;21(3):e0343871. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0343871. eCollection 2026.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Pesticides are essential in agriculture for protecting crops from pests, diseases, and weeds, but improper use can lead to health issues like neurological disorders and carcinogenic effects. Strengthening regulatory frameworks, promoting integrated pest management strategies, and raising farmer awareness can mitigate pesticide misuse. In Ethiopia, widespread pesticide use in vegetables raises concerns about consumer exposure to pesticide residues. This study determined the pesticide residue in vegetables in Southwest Ethiopia.

METHODS: The study was conducted in randomly selected districts of the Jimma zone. Samples of tomatoes, potatoes, cabbage, and onions were collected from vegetable farmers. The modified QuEChERS (Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged, and Safe) methods were used for sample preparation and extraction. The analysis of pesticide residues was performed using gas chromatography coupled with a mass spectrometer (GC-MS) and an ion trap analyzer with an automatic injection. The pesticide detection levels among types of vegetables and locations were analyzed using one-way Analysis of variance (ANOVA) with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.

RESULTS: Pesticide residues were detected in vegetables from Seka Chokorsa, Goma, and Dedo districts. Detected pesticides include Lindane, Aldrin, Chlorpyrifos, 4,4-DDE, Hexachlorobenzene, and Endosulfan II. The highest concentrations were found in the Dabo Gibe onion sample (Seka Chokorsa), the Waro Kolobo potato sample (Dedo), and the Ganji Dalacho cabbage sample (Goma). Lindane residues were found in onion and potato (Seka Chokorsa), exceeding the Maximum Residue Limit (MRL) of 10-50 µg/kg. Chlorpyrifos residues were detected below MRLs across all districts, while 4,4-DDE residues were also detected in some vegetables, indicating historical use of banned pesticides. ANOVA results showed small variation between groups, and there was no statistically significant difference across the four groups (p-value = 0.305). The study highlights the need for stricter regulation, farmer education, and residue monitoring to ensure food safety.

PMID:41770822 | DOI:10.1371/journal.pone.0343871

PLoS One. 2026 Mar 2;21(3):e0327148. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0327148. eCollection 2026.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Health literacy refers to the ability to use relevant information to make informed choices. However, the quality of the available information influences how well individuals can make those choices. Evidence-based recommendations for the development and design of health information have recently been published. In this study, we aimed to map the quality of Norwegian web-based health information across selected public health domains.

METHODS: Using a multiple-cross-sectional design, we assessed information in 16 health domains relevant to infants, children, and youth. Convenience samples were drawn using structured Google searches. Three independent raters conducted the quality appraisal by applying the 19 criteria of the Mapping the quality of health information checklist. Inter-rater reliability was calculated using T-coefficients. Information quality was statistically described. To explain variance in quality, mean quality scores were compared across three independent variables: the type of the health problem, target group, and provider class.

RESULTS: Across the surveys, 1,948 health information materials from 64 subdomains were assessed. Inter-rater reliability was excellent (mean T = .89/.90). On average, the materials complied with 22% (range: 0-73%, standard deviation = .09) of the current minimal standard. Differences between types of problems or target groups were marginal. No differences were found between information provided by health authorities, health services, or commercial entities.

CONCLUSION: Norwegian web-based health information is not of sufficient quality to facilitate informed health choices made by citizens. These findings apply across a wide range of public health domains relating to infants, children, and youth. In the absence of appropriate health information of acceptable quality, estimates of the public’s level of health literacy may need reconsideration. Further research is needed to appraise the quality of information in other health domains and countries.

PMID:41770820 | DOI:10.1371/journal.pone.0327148

Vascular. 2026 Mar 2:17085381261425712. doi: 10.1177/17085381261425712. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

ObjectivesPelvic congestion syndrome (PCS), often underdiagnosed, is a cause of chronic pelvic pain in women and is frequently associated with pelvic varicose veins. Endovascular embolization is an established treatment, traditionally performed via femoral or jugular access. However, these approaches may carry higher risks of complications. This study aimed to evaluate the safety, feasibility, and clinical outcomes of using basilic vein percutaneous access for pelvic vein embolization in patients with PCS.MethodsA retrospective cohort study was conducted on 292 women of reproductive age with symptomatic PCS who underwent pelvic varicose vein embolization using percutaneous access via the distal third of the right basilic vein. The study spanned from 2018 to 2023 and was carried out at two hospitals in Bogotá, Colombia. Inclusion criteria comprised chronic pelvic postcoital pain and Doppler-confirmed pelvic varicosities with reflux diameters >6 mm. Data collected included demographics, CEAP and Symptoms-Varices-Pathophysiology classifications, intraoperative details (access approach, duration, coil usage, complications), and postoperative outcomes (symptom resolution, complications, reintervention, ICU/hospital stay, and mortality). Follow-up evaluations were conducted at 15 days, 3 months, and 6 months post-procedure. Descriptive statistics were used for analysis. A detailed description of the surgical technique used for basilic vein access and embolization was included.ResultsAll 292 procedures were successfully performed using basilic vein access with no access-related complications such as bleeding, thrombosis, or hematoma. The average surgical duration was 41.1 min (SD = 4.1), and a mean of 2.6 coils (SD = 0.7) was used per case. The left gonadal vein was embolized in all patients, with additional embolization of the right gonadal (68.8%) and hypogastric veins (6.8%) when indicated. Only one patient (0.3%) experienced a coil migration resulting in pulmonary embolism, requiring reintervention and a short ICU stay. No mortalities were reported. Symptom resolution was achieved in 278 patients (95.2%), indicating high procedural effectiveness.ConclusionsBasilic vein access is a feasible and safe alternative for pelvic vein embolization in patients with PCS. This approach demonstrated excellent technical success, a low complication rate, and high symptom resolution, with the added benefits of shorter procedure time and reduced coil usage compared to traditional access routes. These findings suggest potential procedural and resource efficiency advantages. However, due to the study’s retrospective nature and lack of comparative controls, prospective studies are necessary to further assess the long-term efficacy and cost-effectiveness of basilic access in comparison to femoral and jugular approaches. Establishing standardized guidelines for vascular access in PCS treatment could enhance outcomes and procedural safety.

PMID:41766632 | DOI:10.1177/17085381261425712

Acta Orthop Belg. 2025 Sep;91(3):387-398. doi: 10.52628/91.3.14701.

ABSTRACT

Pathological femoral fractures resulting from primary or metastatic tumors represent a complex clinical challenge for orthopedic surgeons, often requiring individualized treatment strategies. This retrospective study aimed to evaluate and compare the outcomes of different surgical approaches used in the management of pathological femoral fractures secondary to metastatic disease. A total of 46 patients (52 femoral fractures) who underwent surgical treatment between 2020 and 2023 were included in the study. Data collected encompassed demographic characteristics, tumor histology, surgical techniques employed, and clinical outcomes. Statistical analysis was conducted using appropriate parametric and non-parametric tests, depending on data distribution. Of the patients included, 51% underwent tumor resection followed by endoprosthetic reconstruction, 40% were treated with intramedullary nailing, and 9.4% underwent plate osteosynthesis. The highest postoperative mortality rate was observed among patients with lung cancer metastases. Blood transfusions were necessary in 66% of cases. The overall mean survival time following surgery was 4.5 months, with significant variation according to tumor type and metastatic burden. The findings of this study underscore the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in the surgical management of pathological femoral fractures caused by metastatic tumors. Surgical interventions such as intramedullary nailing, plate fixation, and endoprosthetic reconstruction can effectively restore mechanical stability and contribute to improved patient quality of life. Selection of the optimal surgical technique should be guided by tumor histopathology, anatomical location and extent of bone involvement, number of metastatic lesions, and overall patient prognosis. Timely and appropriate surgical intervention remains critical to minimizing complications and enhancing survival outcomes in this patient population.

PMID:41766554 | DOI:10.52628/91.3.14701

Acta Orthop Belg. 2025 Sep;91(3):365-374. doi: 10.52628/91.3.12985.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS: The exact cause of spontaneously healing idiopathic osteonecrosis in the Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease (LCPD) is still unknown. Although it is postulated that thrombotic processes that occur as a result of genetic, epigenetic and environmental factors are at the forefront, the root cause cannot be fully elucidated. The aim of this study is to investigate underlying endothelial inflammation as a trigger of these pathophysiological mechanisms leading to LCPD.

MATERIALS: The levels of ICAM-1 and E-selectin in the local blood vessels around the femoral neck and peripheral veins of seven surgically treated LCPD patients and similar age controls were compared. These were reviewed together with the clinical and histopathological findings of the LCPD patients.

RESULTS: There were no statistically significant differences between each group’s ICAM-1 and E-selectin levels in the femoral neck region or the peripheral vessels (p>0.05). Histopathological examination revealed arterioles with thickened walls and luminal obliteration. Chronic synovitis with plasma cell and lymphocyte infiltration of different severity was detected in more than half of the patients. Proliferative synovitis with papillary proliferations was seen in two patients. The patients who had these histological findings also had endothelial marker levels above the cohort mean.

CONCLUSIONS: In summary, this study provided a comprehensive examination of LCPD patients. We observed arteriolar involvement and proliferative synovitis in multiple patients in the group.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This study provides important information about the pathophysiological basis of LCPD by combining clinical, molecular, and histopathological data. It is a comprehensive study in an uncommon population of surgically treated LCPD patients and similar age controls. To our knowledge, the findings of proliferative synovitis and arteriolar wall thickening have not been previously reported in the LCPD literature.

PMID:41766552 | DOI:10.52628/91.3.12985

Acta Orthop Belg. 2025 Sep;91(3):309-317. doi: 10.52628/91.3.14109.

ABSTRACT

Since its invention, the ball-and-socket prosthesis has played a significant role in treating carpometacarpal osteoarthritis of the thumb. One of the main postoperative complications remains prosthetic dislocation. To reduce this risk, engineers developed new designs – primarily the retentive cup and the dual-mobility cup. The aim of this study was to compare the stability and outcomes of these two designs, focusing specifically on dislocation as the primary variable. All Maia prostheses (n=118) implanted between 2019 and 2023 at a single institution by two surgeons using the same surgical technique were retrospectively reviewed. The type of implant, dislocation and complication rates, functional outcomes, and patient satisfaction were analyzed. Although the overall complication rates did not differ significantly between groups, the retentive cup group had a slightly higher rate of dislocation (n=2; 3%) compared to the dual-mobility group (n=0; 0%) (p = 0.55). Satisfaction rates, functional scores, QuickDASH results, and range of motion were similar between the two groups and comparable to those of the general age-matched population at midterm follow-up. This study found a low postoperative dislocation rate in both groups, with no dislocations in the dual-mobility group. Although the difference was not statistically significant, the dual-mobility design may demonstrate superior stability in larger cohorts. Both implant types showed reliable performance and high survival rates at midterm follow-up.

PMID:41766546 | DOI:10.52628/91.3.14109