Categories
Nevin Manimala Statistics

To Avoid or Not to Avoid: Cross-Reactivity Between Fragrance and Common Botanicals

Contact Dermatitis. 2026 Feb 6. doi: 10.1111/cod.70107. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Fragrance allergy is difficult to define, with thousands of known fragrance-related compounds. Whether certain botanicals should be considered ‘fragrance’ and whether fragrance-allergic patients should avoid these ingredients remains unclear, with minimal published data on the topic.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate whether there is cross-reactivity between fragrance and various botanicals commonly found in personal-care products, such as aloe, coconut oil and shea butter, among others.

METHODS: A cohort of fragrance-allergic patients was identified using data from 2038 patients patch-tested at a tertiary referral centre from 2020-2024. Cross-reactivity rates to botanicals commonly found in personal-care products were calculated, and statistical significance was determined using Fisher’s exact test. Cross-reactivity was defined as > 10% reaction incidence.

RESULTS: In patients with fragrance allergy, there was no significant cross-reactivity to any of the investigated botanical compounds.

CONCLUSIONS: The low concomitant rates of reaction between fragrance and the investigated substances suggest that patients allergic to fragrance do not need to avoid certain common botanicals. Many products contain these compounds, including ones marked as ‘fragrance-free’. Dermatologists can safely reassure fragrance-allergic patients of the safety of many botanicals commonly used in personal-care products.

PMID:41652868 | DOI:10.1111/cod.70107

Categories
Nevin Manimala Statistics

Enhancing Delivery of High-Quality Communication at Discharge: A Pilot Study of Presence Circles With Nursing Students

Nurs Health Sci. 2026 Mar;28(1):e70300. doi: 10.1111/nhs.70300.

ABSTRACT

Nurse-caregiver communication at discharge is critical to ongoing care of the patient but is often hindered by system-level barriers. Meaningful interpersonal encounters, or presence, are known to enhance clinical interactions amidst system-level demands. Nursing students (16) were randomly assigned to an intervention or control arm of the study. Nursing students in the intervention group participated in Presence Circles and a simulated discharge conversation with a standardized caregiver. Nursing students in the control arm participated in the simulated discharge conversation only. Nursing students completed pre-post surveys and standardized caregivers completed post-conversation surveys. Pre versus post, nursing students in the intervention group reported increases in presence behaviors but no difference in effective communication. Compared to the control group, nursing students in the intervention group identified themselves as engaging in more effective communication. Caregivers also reported more presence behaviors and effective communication when compared to nursing students. Results point to a possible shift in more presence behaviors following the intervention; however, a larger study is needed to demonstrate substantial behavior change.

PMID:41652866 | DOI:10.1111/nhs.70300

Categories
Nevin Manimala Statistics

Health-Related Quality of Life in Differentiated Thyroid Cancer Survivors: A Cross-Sectional Study From Turkey

Head Neck. 2026 Feb 6. doi: 10.1002/hed.70192. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: To evaluate the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients with differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) and to identify clinical and demographic factors associated with HRQoL outcomes.

METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 202 patients diagnosed with differentiated thyroid cancer who completed the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire-Core 30 (EORTC QLQ-C30) questionnaire. Sociodemographic and clinical data such as age, sex, educational status, employment, tumor size, ATA risk classification, TNM stage, and radioactive iodine (RAI) therapy were recorded. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, non-parametric tests, Spearman correlation, and multivariable linear regression to determine predictors of global HRQoL score.

RESULTS: The median global HRQoL was 58.3 (IQR: 50.0-75.0). Functional scores were highest in role, emotional, cognitive, and social domains (median 66.7). Fatigue was the most prominent symptom (median: 44.4), followed by pain, dyspnea, and insomnia (each 33.3). Female sex, lower educational level, and higher RAI dose were associated with lower global HRQoL scores. Emotional functioning was significantly lower in patients aged ≥ 55 years. Multivariable regression analysis identified sex, education level, RAI dose, and TNM stage as significant predictors of HRQoL.

CONCLUSION: Despite generally favorable prognoses in DTC, multiple demographic and treatment-related variables significantly influence patient-reported HRQoL. RAI therapy and disease stage may impact HRQoL less than previously assumed. These findings highlight the importance of individualized supportive care strategies in survivorship plans.

PMID:41652854 | DOI:10.1002/hed.70192

Categories
Nevin Manimala Statistics

Safety and Preliminary Clinical Effects of a Herbal Balance Solution in Mild-To-Moderate Acne Vulgaris: An Open-Label, Single-Arm Pilot Study

J Cosmet Dermatol. 2026 Feb;25(2):e70702. doi: 10.1111/jocd.70702.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: Acne is a common skin condition that seriously affects the physical and mental health of patients. In addition to the standard acne treatment, anti-acne skin care products are gradually becoming essential in preventing and treating acne. Herbal Balance Solution contains multiple botanical ingredients with potential anti-inflammatory and barrier-supportive properties. This pilot study aimed to explore the safety and preliminary clinical effects of Herbal Balance Solution in patients with mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris.

METHODS: Thirty-three patients with mild or moderate acne vulgaris were treated with Herbal Balance Solution once every 3 days for 4 weeks. At baseline (Week 0, W0), Week 2 (W2), and Week 4 (W4), acne lesion counts (total, inflammatory, and non-inflammatory lesions) and the severity index were measured to assess the treatment efficacy, and transepidermal water loss was tested to assess face irritation.

RESULTS: The number of closed comedones was significantly reduced (p < 0.01) at each time point after using the test product. Furthermore, the transepidermal water loss rate significantly decreased (p < 0.05). At Week 4, reductions in total inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesion counts were observed and were statistically significant (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION: In this open-label pilot study, use of Herbal Balance Solution was associated with short-term improvements in acne-related clinical parameters and skin barrier function and was well tolerated in patients with mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris. These preliminary findings warrant confirmation in randomized, vehicle-controlled clinical trials.

PMID:41652827 | DOI:10.1111/jocd.70702

Categories
Nevin Manimala Statistics

The role of uridine diphosphate glucuronosyltransferase 1A4 polymorphisms on posaconazole exposure

Pharmacogenet Genomics. 2026 Feb 2. doi: 10.1097/FPC.0000000000000594. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Posaconazole is used to treat and prevent invasive fungal infections. Posaconazole metabolism is mediated by the uridine 5′-diphopho-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) 1A4 enzyme; prior studies have suggested UGT1A4*3 contributes to low posaconazole exposure, while the impact of UGT1A4*2 is unclear. This study aimed to further understand the relationship between posaconazole exposure and UGT1A4 genotypes. Steady-state posaconazole plasma concentrations (PPCs) and demographics of patients who received the oral tablet formulation of posaconazole were collected, retrospectively, regardless of the patient’s underlying diagnoses. UGT1A4 genotypes were obtained from the institutional research biorepository. The patients’ dose-controlled PPCs, PPCs, and clinical PPC categorizations by institutional prophylaxis and treatment targets were analyzed among UGT1A4 genotypes. Breakthrough infection data were also collected in patients receiving posaconazole prophylaxis. A total of 103 patients were included, with 21 (20.3%) UGT1A4 *1/*3, 76 (73.7%) UGT1A4 *1/*1, and 6 (5.8%) UGT1A4 *1/*2. The dose-controlled PPCs [(ng/ml)/(mg/day)] were 3.63 (2.45-6.92) for UGT1A4 *1/*3, 5.07 (3.04-7.11) for *1/*1, and 4.92 (2.89-6.12) for *1/*2 (P = 0.62). Additionally, no statistically significant differences in median PPC or clinical PPC prophylaxis and treatment classifications were found among UGT1A4 genotypes. One UGT1A4 *1/*3 and two *1/*1 patients experienced possible breakthrough fungal infections. This study did not confirm the previously reported association between UGT1A4*3 and reduced posaconazole exposure and found no association with UGT1A4*2. Further studies are needed to determine the impact of homozygous UGT1A4 variants on posaconazole exposure.

PMID:41652826 | DOI:10.1097/FPC.0000000000000594

Categories
Nevin Manimala Statistics

Transdermal Delivery of Botulinum Toxin for the Management of Oily and Acne-Prone Skin Using TDA Technology

J Cosmet Dermatol. 2026 Feb;25(2):e70656. doi: 10.1111/jocd.70656.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Intradermal botulinum toxin injections have been shown to reduce sebaceous gland activity and improve skin texture in patients with oily and acne-prone skin. However, needle-based application is associated with discomfort and potential side effects.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of transdermal delivery of botulinum toxin (150 kDa) using Transdermal Application (TDA) technology for the treatment of oily and acne-prone skin.

METHODS: In this single-center observational study, 19 participants (aged 20-50) underwent treatment with the DERMADROP MED TDA device according to the BIOBOTOX protocol. Objective assessments included Sebumeter measurements and 2D/3D skin imaging. Subjective evaluation was conducted using validated patient-reported outcome measures (OSIS, OSSAS) at baseline, 2 weeks, and 4 weeks posttreatment.

RESULTS: A statistically significant reduction in sebum levels was observed, accompanied by notable improvements in self-reported skin clarity and satisfaction. No adverse events were reported.

CONCLUSION: Transdermal application of botulinum toxin using TDA-based DERMADROP MED technology is a safe, well-tolerated, and effective noninvasive treatment modality for reducing sebaceous activity and improving the appearance of oily and acne-prone skin.

PMID:41652824 | DOI:10.1111/jocd.70656

Categories
Nevin Manimala Statistics

The effects of sandblasting and acid etching variables on surface micro-roughness of dental implants: Determination of controlled values

Proc Inst Mech Eng H. 2026 Feb 6:9544119251411962. doi: 10.1177/09544119251411962. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Dental implantation is the most reliable method for replacing missing teeth. Success rate of dental implants is influenced by osseointegration. Surface roughness of implants influences osseointegration by altering surface area and texture, providing stimulation to cells. Sandblasting and acid-etching are common methods for making implant surfaces rough. Main goal of this study was to investigate effects of sandblasting and acid-etching variables, that is, blasting-pressure and acid-temperature, on surface roughness of implants to find the controlled values of variables for a favorable surface roughness. An acceptable surface roughness was assumed to have an arithmetic average height (Sa) between 1 and 2 µm, and an area developed ratio (Sdr) over 50%. Seventy-two titanium-made analogs were sandblasted with three different pressures, that is, 4, 5, and 6 MPa, and three different durations, that is, 15, 30, and 45 s, and then were etched with two different etching temperature, that is, 60°C and 80°C, and two exposure-time, that is, 5 and 10 min (two repetition for each combination). Surface roughness parameters were then measured using a profilometer. Multi-factorial ANOVA was used as statistical analysis method. Results showed that 14 groups demonstrated favorable Sa (1-2 µm), among which just four groups had acceptable Sdr (Sdr > 50%). Among four parameters stated above, which affect sandblasting and acid-etching processes, it was found that blasting duration is the most effective variable on implants roughness. This work highlights the importance of sandblasting and acid-etching parameters for a controlled titanium dental implant surface, which can achieve surface roughness parameters that correspond to those previously reported in the literature as favorable ones for osseointegration.

PMID:41652812 | DOI:10.1177/09544119251411962

Categories
Nevin Manimala Statistics

Transfer of a Guidewire Alongside a Nephrostomy Tube in Patients Undergoing Endourological Procedures

J Endourol. 2026 Feb 6:8927790261420557. doi: 10.1177/08927790261420557. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: This study evaluated the feasibility and success of advancing a guidewire alongside the nephrostomy tube instead of through it in patients undergoing endourological procedures who had nephrostomy tubes.

METHODS: 33 patients with nephrostomy tubes in place underwent endourological procedures over a 2-year period (2023-2025). Under fluoroscopic guidance, a guidewire was advanced alongside the nephrostomy tube, and success was defined by the wire reaching the renal pelvis or ureter. Outcomes were compared to the conventional technique of inserting the guidewire through the nephrostomy tube, and the influence of time since nephrostomy placement on success was assessed.

RESULTS: Guidewire passage alongside the nephrostomy tube succeeded in 27 of 33 cases (81.8%). Failures occurred in 6 cases (18.2%), mainly because of tortuous or calcified tracts requiring new access. The conventional through-tube approach succeeded in 32 of 33 cases (97%), but this difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.10). Notably, the alongside approach achieved ureteral/bladder access in a higher proportion of cases than the through-tube method (48.4% vs 12.1%, p = 0.003). Longer time intervals between nephrostomy placement and the procedure were associated with increased success (p = 0.002), with an optimal cutoff of ∼1.3 months identified.

CONCLUSIONS: Guidewire passage alongside an existing nephrostomy tube proved to be a safe, effective, and feasible technique for establishing antegrade access. Performing the procedure more than ∼1.3 months after nephrostomy placement was associated with higher success, suggesting that a well-matured tract improves outcomes.

PMID:41652811 | DOI:10.1177/08927790261420557

Categories
Nevin Manimala Statistics

Using Off-Treatment Sequential Multiple Imputation for Binary Outcomes to Address Intercurrent Events Handled by a Treatment Policy Strategy

Pharm Stat. 2026 Mar-Apr;25(2):e70070. doi: 10.1002/pst.70070.

ABSTRACT

The estimand framework proposes different strategies to address intercurrent events. The treatment policy strategy seems to be the most favoured as it is closely aligned with the pre-addendum intention-to-treat principle. All data for all patients should ideally be collected; however, in reality patients may withdraw from a study leading to missing data. This needs to be dealt with as part of the estimation. A common intercurrent event we focus on is treatment discontinuation. Several areas of research have been conducted exploring models to estimate the estimand when intercurrent events are handled using a treatment policy strategy; however, the research is limited for binary endpoints. We explore different retrieved dropout models, where post-intercurrent event, the observed data can be used to multiply impute the missing post-intercurrent event data. We compare our proposed models to a simple imputation model that makes no distinction between the pre- and post-intercurrent event data, and assess varying statistical properties through a simulation study. We then provide an example of how retrieved dropout models were used in practice for Phase 3 clinical trials in rheumatoid arthritis. From the models explored, we conclude that a simple retrieved dropout model including an indicator for whether or not the intercurrent event occurred is the most pragmatic choice. However, at least 50% of observed post-intercurrent event data is required for these models to work well. Therefore, the suitability of implementing this model in practice will depend on the amount of observed post-intercurrent event data available and missing data.

PMID:41652801 | DOI:10.1002/pst.70070

Categories
Nevin Manimala Statistics

The International Pediatric Headache Didactic Series: A Novel Curriculum Innovation

Headache. 2026 Feb 6. doi: 10.1111/head.70056. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVES: The International Pediatric Headache Didactic Series (IPHDS) was developed to provide free, comprehensive pediatric headache education to healthcare professionals worldwide. The objective of this study was to describe the design, implementation, and impact of this prospective educational intervention.

BACKGROUND: Headache is the most common neurological symptom within the pediatric population. Yet, only nine fellowships are offered in pediatric headache medicine. Limitations in access to education and training are often cited as reasons for diagnostic and management barriers. To address this gap, the IPHDS was established in July 2022.

METHODS: IPHDS is a recurring series consisting of 23 biweekly lectures. Lectures are delivered virtually via Zoom and available for asynchronous learning on an open-access website. Lecture topics are based on the United Council for Neurologic Subspecialties’ curriculum recommendations. Pre- and post-surveys were developed collaboratively by content experts and administered to attendees. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, and qualitative data were analyzed using conventional qualitative content analysis.

RESULTS: From July 2022 to July 2023, over 480 people signed up for IPHDS. Lecture attendees represented a variety of clinical backgrounds including advanced practice providers (26.4%, n = 128/484), MD/DO headache providers (25.4%, n = 123/484), adult headache fellows (12.6%, n = 61/484), pediatric headache fellows (10.3%, n = 50/484), residents (8.1%, n = 39/484), clinical nurses (8.1%, n = 39/484), MD/DO neurology (non-headache) providers (2.1%, n = 10/484), researchers (1.6%, n = 8/484), medical students (1.4%, n = 7/484), orofacial pain providers (1.0%, n = 5/484), psychologists (<1%, n = 3/484), and pharmacists (<1%, n = 3/484). Lecture attendees represented nine countries and 31 US states. Median attendance for live lectures was 34.0 people [interquartile range: 28.3-42.5], and median viewership of the posted lectures to date was 79.0 views [interquartile range: 52.0-93.0]. Prior to attending IPHDS, only 56.7% (n = 230/406) of participants reported being competent or very competent in headache medicine knowledge. After attending IPHDS, 76.9% (n = 40/52) of participants reported being competent or very competent in knowledge of headache medicine, as indicated in their post-survey. Similarly, 78.8% (n = 41/52) of participants indicated that this didactic series moderately or significantly added to their knowledge of pediatric headache medicine.

CONCLUSION: This novel didactic series successfully delivered free pediatric headache education to healthcare professionals worldwide. Furthermore, this didactic series serves as a framework for other subspecialties looking to disseminate education from specialists in the field. IPHDS continues on an annual basis, following the academic calendar year, and now holds continuing medical education accreditation.

PMID:41652798 | DOI:10.1111/head.70056