Search PubMedSearch

SEARCH · Search PubMed

Results for “stress factors”

Search indexed PubMed citations on genomics, clinical trials, systematic reviews and public health. Explore titles, authors and supplied subject terms, then open the PubMed record.

Quote a phrase for an exact phrase match. Source license links do not imply unrestricted reuse.

867 records · Page 18Linked to original sources

Prevalence and Factors Associated with Receiving a Prescription for a Direct Oral Anticoagulant Among Patients with Atrial Fibrillation on Hospice Admission.

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is prevalent in hospice care, but anticoagulation decisions in this population are not well understood. In this cross-sectional study, we described the prevalence and characteristics associated with direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) prescription on hospice admission. We used electronic health data from adult decedents with AF in a large, for-profit hospice chain in the United States between January 1, 2017 and December 31, 2019. We used multivariable logistic regression with results reported as adjusted odds ratios (AORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Among 13,233 decedents, mean (standard deviation [SD]) age was 84.2 (9.9) years, 53.6% were female, 65.1% were White, and 56.1% were referred to hospice from a hospital. Mean (SD) CHA2DS2-VASc score were 3.8 (1.4) for males and 4.8 (1.3) for females, and mean (SD) HAS-BLED score was 2.2 (1.0). Overall, 8% of patients received a DOAC prescription on hospice admission. Characteristics associated with receiving a DOAC prescription included PPS scores of &#x2265; 20% (compared to scores < 20%), and receiving hospice care at home, nursing home, assisted living facility, or residential care home (compared to inpatient hospice). Further studies about the risks and benefits of DOAC use are needed to optimize decision-making in this population.

DOAC

UV-based homogeneous disinfection process for removal of antibiotic resistance genes: Efficiency, mechanisms and influencing factors.

The proliferation and dissemination of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in aquatic environments pose a serious threat to global public health. Ultraviolet-driven homogeneous advanced oxidation processes (UV-AOPs) represent a prospective suite of technologies for the efficient removal of ARGs. This review critically assesses recent advances in the application of UV-AOPs, specifically UV/hydrogen peroxide (UV/H2O2), UV/peracetic acid (UV/PAA), UV/persulfate (UV/PS), and UV/chlorine (UV/Cl), for the elimination of extracellular ARGs and intracellular ARGs. The underlying mechanisms involve direct ultraviolet-induced DNA damage, including pyrimidine dimer formation and strand breakage, as well as oxidation mediated by radicals such as hydroxyl radicals, sulfate radicals, carbon-centered radicals, and reactive chlorine species. The relative contribution of radical and non-radical pathways is strongly influenced by water chemistry and process conditions. We further expound on the critical operational and environmental factors governing ARG removal kinetics, including UV wavelength and fluence, oxidant type and dosage, ARG sequence characteristics, pH, ubiquitous anions, and dissolved organic matter, which collectively affect radical generation, quenching, and reaction microenvironments. Notably, for i-ARGs, UV-AOPs facilitate degradation not only through direct radical attack but also by disrupting cellular integrity and permeabilizing membranes, thereby enhancing the exposure of genetic materials to oxidative and photolytic damage. This review synthesizes current understanding to provide a mechanistic basis for the design and optimization of UV-AOP systems, highlighting their potential as effective barriers against the dissemination of antibiotic resistance in water reuse and purification scenarios.

Disinfection

Revealing the Shared Genetic Architecture of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease-Related Traits Through Genomic Structural Equation Modeling.

Although individual traits related to metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) have been investigated through large-scale genome-wide association studies (GWASs), the shared genetic susceptibility across these traits remains unclear. We therefore conducted a multivariate GWAS of key MASLD-related traits to elucidate their common genetic architecture. We applied genomic structural equation modeling to model a latent genetic factor (MASLD-F) underlying genetically correlated MASLD-related traits, leveraging their GWAS-derived genetic correlations. We then performed functional annotations, including fine-mapping, transcriptome-wide association study, and cell- and tissue-type-specific enrichment analyses, and conducted Mendelian randomization analyses to identify modifiable risk factors. Our multivariate MASLD-F GWAS identified 50 independent variants across 48 genomic loci. Transcriptomic imputation identified several MASLD-F-associated genes, including ARNTL, NPC1, BTBD10, VDAC2, TSKU, SFMBT1, and ABHD17C. We observed significant enrichment of MASLD-F-related genetic signals predominantly in brain tissues, pancreatic islets, and the adrenal gland. Additionally, six modifiable risk factors and four modifiable protective factors for MASLD-F were identified. These findings reveal a complex shared genetic architecture underlying MASLD components, thereby expanding our understanding of disease pathogenesis and providing novel insights for precision medicine and public health interventions.

Humans

Long-term glycemic variability and risk of peripheral artery disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis of cohort studies.

BACKGROUND: A systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the impact of long-term glucose variability (GV) on the risk of developing peripheral artery disease (PAD). METHODS: The protocol was prospectively registered in PROSPERO (ID: CRD420251148763). Relevant longitudinal studies were identified through comprehensive searches of PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science. The primary outcome was the risk ratio (RR) of PAD comparing participants with high versus low GV. Summary effect sizes were calculated using a random-effects model to account for between-study heterogeneity. RESULTS: Eleven cohorts were included. Higher GV showed a positive association with PAD risk (RR: 1.42; 95% CI [1.21-1.66] p&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.001), although substantial heterogeneity was present (I 2&#xa0;=&#xa0;91%). This association was consistent across subgroups defined by region (Asian vs. Western), study design, diabetic status, GV metrics, PAD diagnostic methods, and adjustment for HbA1c (all p for subgroup differences > 0.05), except for follow-up duration. Studies with follow-up < 8 years showed a stronger association than those with &#x2265; 8 years (RR: 1.64 vs. 1.19; p for subgroup difference = 0.006). CONCLUSIONS: Elevated long-term GV appears to be associated with an increased risk of PAD. However, substantial heterogeneity across studies suggests that the magnitude of this association should be interpreted with caution.

Humans

Application of causal discovery of factors driving dissolved oxygen in estuarine environments.

Dissolved oxygen (DO) concentrations in estuarine bottom waters are a manifestation of multiple, interacting physical and biogeochemical processes, yet identifying their independent contributions remains challenging. Here, we analyze monthly water quality monitoring data from eight stations across Long Island Sound from 1994 to 2022 using a causal discovery framework (PCMCI+) and transformation of forcing variables. Our goal is to identify and isolate variables that causally influence bottom DO and improve predictive models by minimizing overfitting and multicollinearity. PCMCI+ reveals surface-layer temperature as the most important and consistent negative driver of bottom DO, followed by stratification. Wind events exhibit only brief relief by advection and mixing, while river discharge shows no direct causal link to DO, making it less influential than previously thought. Biogeochemical variables, including chlorophyll-a (Chl-a), nitrate and nitrite, and particulate carbon, influence DO through both contemporaneous and time-lagged pathways, often with signs that shift depending on the process. The derived models were evaluated by comparing skill scores, mean squared error, and Akaike Information Criterion. Both model types perform well, with coefficient of determination values exceeding 0.90 at multiple stations using only 3-5 predictors. Our analysis reveals that the best causal predictors are surface-layer temperature, stratification, Chl-a, and particle carbon. This approach provides a scalable framework for improving prediction models and understanding the mechanistic links that control the seasonal variability of DO in estuarine systems.

Estuaries

Associations Between Paternal Pre-Conceptional Body Mass Index and Lifestyle Factors and Offspring Weight Development.

BACKGROUND: Evidence suggests that pre-conceptional paternal factors, including BMI and diet, may influence offspring development. OBJECTIVES: We examined the associations between paternal BMI, dietary protein intake, glycemic index (GI), smoking and alcohol consumption and offspring development during the first 5&#x2009;years of life. METHODS: This secondary analysis of an RCT included 162 father-child pairs from pregnancies among women with pre-pregnancy overweight or obesity. Paternal characteristics were reported at gestational week 15, reflecting the preceding 3&#x2009;months. Offspring anthropometry was measured at birth, 6 and 18&#x2009;months, 3 and 5&#x2009;years. Associations were examined using linear mixed models and linear regression models. RESULTS: No consistent associations were found between paternal characteristics and offspring outcomes from birth to 3&#x2009;years. At age 5, higher paternal BMI was associated with higher offspring BMI z-score (&#x3b2;&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.07 (CI: 0.03; 0.10)), fat mass index (&#x3b2;&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.07&#x2009;kg/m2 (CI: 0.02; 0.12)) and fat-free mass index (&#x3b2;&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.05&#x2009;kg/m2 (CI: 0.01; 0.08)). Lower paternal protein intake was associated with higher offspring BMI z-score (&#x3b2;&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.54 (CI: 0.07; 1.01)) and fat-free mass index (&#x3b2;&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.60&#x2009;kg/m2 (CI: 0.13; 1.07)), while moderately higher protein intake was associated with higher waist-to-height ratio (&#x3b2;&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.03 (CI: 3.00&#x2009;&#xd7;&#x2009;10-3; 0.05)). Higher paternal GI was associated with lower offspring BMI z-score (&#x3b2;&#x2009;=&#x2009;-0.04 (CI: -0.08; -2.14-10-3)) at age 5. Smoking and alcohol were not associated with offspring outcomes. CONCLUSION: Paternal BMI was associated with offspring outcomes at age 5&#x2009;years, while findings for paternal dietary factors were less consistent.

Humans

Editorial Commentary: Stiff Patients After Rotator Cuff Repair: How Many Had Underrecognized Preoperative Adhesive Capsulitis?

Stiffness after rotator cuff repair is one of the most common sources of disability and one of the most common complications. Smoking, diabetes, Workers' compensation status, and traumatic tears are among the strongest risk factors. This is important information in setting appropriate expectations for both the patient and the surgeon preoperatively. Some of these factors are also associated with preoperative stiffness, so surgeons should maintain a high index of suspicion for concomitant adhesive capsulitis in patients presenting with limited motion, particularly in diabetic and non-English speaking populations. In cases where both a rotator cuff tear and adhesive capsulitis coexist, performing a concurrent capsular release or manipulation during the index procedure may improve functional outcomes and reduce the necessity for secondary surgical intervention.

Humans

In situ product monitoring in heterogeneous reaction of gaseous trimethylamine on Fe2O3/Fe(NO3)3: Effect of environmental factor and particle property.

Gas-particle reactions represent an important atmospheric heterogeneous transformation process for organic amines (OAs). Environmental factors and particle properties may impact the gas-particle reaction products. Although the products from gas-particle reactions can be monitored by various in situ techniques, related data remain scarce. Here, the interfacial and gaseous products from the reaction of trimethylamine on Fe2O3/Fe(NO3)3 particles under light irradiation with mixed NO2, O2, SO2 and H2O were monitored using in-situ diffuse reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and proton transfer reaction time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Dark reaction of gaseous trimethylamine on Fe2O3/Fe(NO3)3 generated two interfacial products types: N-containing ones (CH3NCH2, CH3NO2, (CH3)2NCHO, and CH3N(OH)CHO) and N-free ones (alcohols, aldehydes and acids), both accumulating with reaction progression. Light irradiation and O2 oxidation enhanced formation of these products, while NO2 promoted the production of CH3NO2 and (CH3)2NCHO. H2O and SO2 occupied the active sites of particles to inhibit the formation of all products. Compared to Fe(NO3)3, Fe2O3 showed absolute dominance in contribution to the formation of products. Considering the smaller particle size of Fe2O3 and excess Fe(NO3)3, the physical mixing of them reduced the generation of interfacial products. Furthermore, gaseous products of CH3OH, HCHO, CH3CHO, HCOOH and CH3COOH detection clarified the N-free interfacial products. The presence of Fe(NO3)3 inhibited the formation of HCOOH and favored the formation of CH3CHO in the gas phase. By combining product information with thermodynamic calculations, the heterogeneous reaction pathways of trimethylamine were tentatively proposed. These findings provide a guiding significance for the migration of OAs in real atmospheric environment.

Methylamines

Premenarche risk factors for future dysmenorrhoea: a prospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Dysmenorrhoea, or pain during menstruation, is common in adolescence and is often dismissed or left untreated. Dysmenorrhoea can interfere with daily functioning and can lead to other chronic pain conditions; however, little is known about the risk factors for dysmenorrhoea. We aimed to characterise premenarche risk factors for the presence and severity of future dysmenorrhoea. METHODS: In this prospective cohort study, we obtained data for female adolescents from the population-based Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development Study (USA) who were premenarchal at baseline (age 9-10 years) and had both reached menarche and completed the Menstrual Cycle Survey at 3-year follow-up (age 12-13 years). Parents or guardians provided sociodemographic information and completed the Child Behavior Checklist, the Sleep Disturbance Scale for Children, and the Pubertal Development Scale, which captured data on non-painful somatic symptoms, attention problems, anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, and pubertal development at baseline. Our primary objective was to analyse associations between dysmenorrhoea at 3-year follow-up (status and severity) with select symptom domains (sleep problems, attention problems, somatic symptoms, anxious or depressive symptoms, and baseline pain status) at baseline. We also investigated associations between dysmenorrhoea and participant characteristics (pubertal status, race or ethnicity, and income-to-needs ratio) that underlie social determinants of health. Differences by race were tested using Fisher exact tests. Differences by ethnicity and baseline pain status were tested using &#x3c7;2 tests. Differences in continuous variables were assessed using ANOVA. Wilcoxon-Rank Sum tests were used in analyses of sleep problems, attention problems, and somatic symptoms, and ANOVA was used for pubertal status and income-to-needs ratio. Multinomial logistic regression was used to test associations with dysmenorrhoea severity, and linear regression was used to test associations with dysmenorrhoea status and menstrual pain interference. FINDINGS: 2254 female adolescents were included in this study. 1299 (57&#xb7;6%) participants developed dysmenorrhoea at age 12-13 years, and 247 (19&#xb7;0% of those with dysmenorrhoea) reported severe dysmenorrhoea. Non-painful somatic symptoms were prospectively associated with future dysmenorrhoea (odds ratio [OR] 1&#xb7;17 [95% CI 1&#xb7;04-1&#xb7;32]; p=0&#xb7;0070), whereas anxiety or depression, sleep disturbances, and attention problems were not. Sleep disturbances were prospectively associated with menstrual pain interference (&#x3b2; coefficient 0&#xb7;16 [95% CI 0&#xb7;01-0&#xb7;31]). Advanced pubertal status at ages 9-10 years was prospectively associated with risk of dysmenorrhoea 3 years later (OR 1&#xb7;79 [95% CI 1&#xb7;47-2&#xb7;17]; p<0&#xb7;0001), as was lower income-to-needs ratio (0&#xb7;96 [0&#xb7;93-1&#xb7;00]; p=0&#xb7;031). Black (1&#xb7;38 [1&#xb7;05-1&#xb7;83]; p=0&#xb7;024) and Hispanic (1&#xb7;34 [1&#xb7;03-1&#xb7;68]; p=0&#xb7;010) young females were at a significantly greater risk of experiencing dysmenorrhoea than were White and non-Hispanic young females, respectively. INTERPRETATION: Sociodemographic characteristics and clinical symptoms present before menarche might help to identify at-risk individuals for dysmenorrhoea before pain becomes a lifelong issue. FUNDING: The National Institute of Nursing Research, the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, and the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute for Child Health and Human Development.

Humans

A Dynamic Nomogram to Predict Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Fatty Liver Disease in Patients with Metabolic Syndrome.

BACKGROUND: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) involves multiple metabolic disorders. This study aimed to identify high-risk populations for metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) in patients with MetS and to establish a dynamic predictive nomogram. METHODS: A total of 627 patients with MetS from six regions in Zhejiang Province were enrolled and categorized into MAFLD and non-MAFLD groups, then randomly assigned to training and validation sets at a ratio of 7:3. Independent predictors of MAFLD were identified using least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression and multivariable logistic regression analyses. These predictors were then used to construct a dynamic nomogram. RESULTS: A total of 627 patients with MetS were included in the final analysis, of whom 77.0% (483/627) were diagnosed with MAFLD. Multivariable logistic regression analysis identified body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), total cholesterol (TC), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), MetS-defined dysglycemia, and education level as independent risk factors for MAFLD. MetS-defined dysglycemia showed the highest odds ratio (OR) for MAFLD development [OR = 1.87, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.07-3.29]. Although the number of MetS components and the metabolic syndrome score were significantly associated with MAFLD in univariate analysis, they were not independently associated with MAFLD in the multivariate model. A dynamic nomogram for predicting MAFLD risk in patients with MetS was developed and internally validated. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.834 (95% CI: 0.787-0.880) in the training set and 0.839 (95% CI: 0.771-0.899) in the validation set, indicating strong predictive performance. Bootstrap internal validation demonstrated good agreement between predicted and observed outcomes in calibration curves. Decision curve analysis further indicated favorable clinical applicability of the nomogram. CONCLUSION: BMI, WC, TC, ALT, MetS-defined dysglycemia, and education level are independent risk factors for MAFLD. A dynamic nomogram for predicting MAFLD risk in patients with MetS was successfully developed and validated.

Humans

Rates, Timing, and Predictors of Retreatment Across Risk-Cohorts in Retinopathy of Prematurity: Intravitreal Bevacizumab Injection Versus Laser.

OBJECTIVE: To characterize rates, timing, and predictors of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) retreatment among infants treated with primary laser or intravitreal bevacizumab injection. DESIGN: Retrospective consecutive, comparative clinical study. PARTICIPANTS: Infants who underwent initial treatment for treatment-warranted ROP (TW-ROP) with either intravitreal bevacizumab or laser photocoagulation between 2017 and 2023. METHODS: Patients were stratified into two treatment groups: primary laser group vs primary bevacizumab group. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Retreatment within the first 3 months (0-90 days) was assessed and classified as early (&#x2264;30 days) or late (31-90 days). RESULTS: Two hundred and thirty eight eyes of 122 infants were treated for ROP; of those, 181 (76.1%) eyes of 93 (76.2%) patients were included. There were 116 (64.1%) eyes in the bevacizumab group, and 65 (35.9%) eyes in the laser group. Thirty-three (18.2%) eyes-all micro- or nano-premature (<27 weeks GA and/or <800 grams)-required retreatment for TW-ROP. Sixteen (8.8%) required early retreatment at a median postmenstrual age (PMA) of 40.4 weeks (IQR, 38.44-43.3). There were differences in the proportion of early retreated infants (21.5% for laser vs 1.7% for injection, P < .001). Seventeen (9.4%) eyes required late retreatment. The median PMA at late retreatment was 45.6 weeks (IQR, 43.7-47.4). Infants in the bevacizumab group had lower odds of retreatment within three months than those with laser (OR, 0.23; 95% CI, 0.06-0.82). Similarly, patients in the bevacizumab group had lower odds of requiring early retreatment compared to those with laser (OR, 0.08; 95% CI, 0.04-0.18). Within eyes with retreatment, infants in the bevacizumab group had a later PMA at retreatment than those in the laser group (B = 6.81; 95% CI: 4.68-8.93). AROP was associated with earlier PMA at retreatment (B = -7.72; 95% CI, -9.36 to -6.10). CONCLUSION: In this study, early retreatment was low (8.8%), with most eyes initially treated with laser (21.5%) rather than bevacizumab (1.7%). Aggressive ROP was associated with earlier retreatment, highlighting its role as a marker of more severe disease. Compared to laser, bevacizumab was associated with lower overall and early retreatment, and delayed need for additional intervention when necessary. All retreatments occurred in micro- or nano-premature infants, suggesting that medium-to-low risk infants may require less strict post-treatment monitoring.

Humans

Obesity-Related Coagulation Activation in Adolescents and Children: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

UNLABELLED: Obesity is recognized as a pro-thrombotic condition, yet the extent of coagulation activation across biomarkers remains unclear. This meta-analysis evaluates the impact of obesity on parameters-D-dimer, fibrinogen, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), von Willebrand factor (vWF), factor VIII (FVIII), and endogenous thrombin potential (ETP)-in children and adults. METHODS: Sixty-four studies comprising 59,503 individuals were analyzed. Plasma biomarker levels were compared between non-obese and obese groups using standardized mean differences (SMDs), with subgroup analyses. RESULTS: D-dimer was significantly elevated in adults with obesity (SMD 1.36, 95% CI 0.47-2.25, p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.003) and children with obesity (SMD 0.77, 95% CI 0.19-1.36, p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.009), indicating increased fibrin turnover. Fibrinogen levels were markedly higher in both adults (SMD 1.17, 95% CI 0.14-2.20, p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.03) and children (SMD 1.43, 95% CI 0.93-1.92, p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.0001). PAI-1 showed the most pronounced increase in adults (SMD 2.30, 95% CI 0.1.51-3.09, p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.0001) and children (SMD 3.54, 95% CI 1.65-5.43, p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.0002). FVIII levels were modestly elevated (SMD 0.52, 95% CI 0.10-0.94, p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.02), whereas vWF levels showed inconsistent changes. ETP was significantly higher in obesity, in children (SMD 1.06, 95% CI 0.24-1.88, p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.01) and adults (SMD 0.71, 95% CI 0.46-0.97, p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.0001). Gender-stratified data indicated higher PAI-1, fibrinogen, and ETP levels in females. CONCLUSION: Obesity is associated with increased coagulation activation, suggesting a pro-thrombotic shift. These findings support the need for age- and gender-specific research into obesity-related hemostatic alterations.

Humans

Effectiveness of Caregiver-Mediated Spoken Language Interventions for Children Under Five at Risk of Developmental Language Disorder: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Caregiver-mediated interventions are commonly used by Speech and Language Therapists to support early language development. Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) is associated with reduced quality of life throughout the lifespan. Understanding factors that predict intervention success is essential for developing appropriate, cost-effective therapy provision for the approximately 12% of preschool children who present with early markers for Developmental Language Disorder (DLD). This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the effectiveness of caregiver-mediated spoken language interventions for under-fives at risk of DLD, and factors influencing intervention effectiveness. METHODS: A systematic review following PRISMA guidelines was conducted. Five electronic databases were searched to identify experimental studies comparing caregiver-mediated spoken language interventions to control conditions in under-fives presenting with risk factors for DLD. Risk factors included prematurity, socioeconomic factors, caregiver language development concerns, and formal or informal language screening or assessment scores. Twenty-six experimental studies with 1407 child participants were included in qualitative synthesis. Meta-analysis was performed on nine Randomised Controlled Trials involving 947 children. RESULTS: Effectiveness was examined for outcomes including child language gains, child wellbeing, inclusion and attainment. Meta-analysis indicated a significant effect of caregiver-mediated spoken language interventions on language outcomes compared to treatment-as-usual, non-language intervention or waitlist control conditions. Non-language outcomes were evaluated via qualitative synthesis. Interventions significantly improved language development trajectories for under-fives presenting with risk factors or early markers for DLD. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS: This review contributes to the growing evidence base demonstrating that caregiver-mediated interventions can positively impact language development and wellbeing outcomes for children under five at risk of DLD. These findings support the implementation of caregiver-mediated environmental language interventions in clinical practice to maximise accessibility and cost-effectiveness while delivering optimal outcomes for vulnerable populations. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS: What is already known on this subject Previous research on caregiver-mediated spoken language interventions has highlighted gaps in the evidence regarding the impact of risk factors, demographic characteristics, dosage and intervention components on child language outcomes. Developmental Language Disorder has relatively high population prevalence, estimated at 7%. Prevalence is associated with risk factors including low household socioeconomic status (SES), prematurity and late language emergence. In contrast to its prevalence, there is low public and professional awareness of DLD and a low diagnostic rate. Therefore, a strengthened evidence base and additional insights into the factors affecting success of family-based interventions is important in order to increase the effectiveness of service provision and care planning for this underserved population. Timely and effective intervention with young children presenting with early markers for DLD has the potential to offer lifelong improvement to their wellbeing, inclusion and attainment outcomes. Recent systematic reviews of the effectiveness of caregiver-mediated language interventions had differences in population age range and diagnostic inclusion criteria. What this paper adds to existing knowledge Our review examines the effectiveness of caregiver-mediated early spoken language interventions on child language, attainment and wellbeing, and on caregiver self-efficacy and adherence to language support strategies. Our population was children under five presenting with risk factors for Developmental Language Disorder, in the absence of other neurodevelopmental or genetic conditions such as intellectual disability or autism. This review adds depth and detail to the evidence base supporting the effectiveness of caregiver-mediated spoken language interventions in improving outcomes for this population of young children, and factors that influence their success. What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this work? The high prevalence of Developmental Language Disorder, estimated at around 7% of the population, and the strong association with risk factors including low SES, prematurity and late language emergence, coupled with the low awareness of DLD and low diagnostic rate, mean that a strengthened evidence base and additional insights into the factors affecting success of family-based interventions can increase the effectiveness of service provision and care planning for this population. Timely and effective intervention in this group of young children has the potential to improve wellbeing and attainment outcomes across the lifespan. This review contributes to our understanding of how to implement cost-effective, socially valid and maximally engaging partnership working with families of young children at risk for DLD.

Humans

Stigma, discrimination-related events, and determinants among adult people living with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE): Systematic review and indicator-level meta-analysis.

BackgroundSystemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex autoimmune disease with 0.4&#xa0;million new cases diagnosed annually. With its wide variety of visible and invisible manifestations, people living with SLE report being exposed to stigmatization, which impacts their personal and professional lives. However, the current literature is unclear on whether healthcare management teams assess this concern during follow-up. This study aims to synthesize existing evidence on the prevalence and determinants of stigma among people living with SLE.MethodsThis systematic review and meta-analysis gathered evidence from observational studies identified from three databases on 16 July 2025. Dual independent screening, data extraction, and risk-of-bias assessment (using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale) were performed. Results were synthesized using descriptive statistics, narrative synthesis, and indicator-level meta-analyses.ResultsWithin the past two decades, 11 studies comprising 2254 people living with SLE reported and measured stigma- and discrimination-related events using various scales. Stigma was found to be prevalent across its three constructs: interpersonal, perceived, and intrapersonal stigma. This review demonstrated that people living with SLE reported a moderate overall burden of stigma (34.71 [95% CI 26.15, 43.27]), with average stigma scores indicating psychological impact. Additionally, nearly one in two persons (46% [95% CI 28-66%]) experienced at least one form of stigma or discrimination, most commonly social isolation and unfair treatment. Mental health associations were correlated with higher stigma burden.ConclusionThis review demonstrates that stigma and discrimination are not just social challenges but also critical determinants of health. With cautious interpretation, pooled evidence reveals a consistent high prevalence of stigma and discrimination, which act as "toxic" stressors, creating a vicious cycle with psychological stress and psychiatric manifestations and disease activity. There is an urgent clinical need to move beyond a mere biological approach to disease assessment and management and to begin screening for the "invisible" burden of invalidation and discrimination.

Humans

A GRADE-assessed systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials evaluating the effects of olive leaf or olive pomace supplementation on cardiometabolic and anthropometric health markers.

AIMS: Cardiometabolic diseases (CMDs) are major contributors to global morbidity and mortality, and dietary bioactives such as polyphenols may modulate key risk factors. Olive by-products, particularly olive leaves (OL) and olive pomace (OP), are rich in phenolic compounds with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cardiometabolic effects demonstrated across in vitro, preclinical, and clinical studies. DATA SYNTHESIS: This GRADE-assessed systematic review and meta-analysis included 30 randomized controlled trials (n&#x202f;=&#x202f;1726) evaluating OL or OP supplementation on 21 standardized biomarkers, encompassing inflammatory markers, lipid profile, glycemic control, insulin sensitivity, anthropometric measures, and blood pressure. Meta-analyses were conducted using random-effects models, with effect sizes calculated as mean differences (or standardized mean differences for oxLDL). Between-study heterogeneity was assessed with I2 statistics, and sensitivity and subgroup analyses explored potential sources of variability. Publication bias was evaluated using Begg's test and funnel plots where appropriate. OL supplementation significantly improved lipid parameters (total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL-C, ApoB, oxLDL) and increased ApoA1, while reducing TNF-&#x3b1;, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, body weight, and BMI. No significant effects were observed on glycemic markers. OP supplementation showed no consistent cardiometabolic benefits and was associated with an increase in IL-8. Certainty of evidence ranged from very low to high, with several outcomes downgraded due to imprecision, heterogeneity, or limited study numbers. CONCLUSION: These findings support the targeted use of OL as an adjunctive strategy for cardiometabolic risk management. Evidence for OP supplementation remains limited, underscoring the need for well-powered, high-quality RCTs to clarify its clinical effects.

Humans

The effect of dietetic counseling combined with digital tools intervention on hemodynamic markers in Greek adults: The GATEKEEPER Study.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Hypertension is a leading cardiovascular risk factor with substantial global impact on morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. While lifestyle interventions remain central to management, mHealth technologies offer promising adjunctive support, though their clinical effectiveness remains uncertain. This study evaluated whether combining dietetic counseling with digital tools improves hemodynamic markers in adults aged &#x2265;55 years with increased cardiometabolic risk. METHODS AND RESULTS: This 3-month RCT (NCT05031299) included 954 adults with at least one metabolic syndrome risk factor, allocated 1:1:1 to Standard Care (dietetic counseling), Platform (counseling plus web-based platform), or Platform&#xa0;+&#xa0;Devices (counseling plus platform plus wearables). Outcomes included anthropometrics, lifestyle characteristics, blood pressure, pulse pressure, and estimated pulse wave velocity, analyzed using linear mixed-effects models adjusted for age and sex. All groups improved over 3 months. Waist circumference decreased by -6.29, -4.92, and -4.69&#xa0;cm across Standard Care, Platform, and Platform&#xa0;+&#xa0;Devices groups respectively, and systolic blood pressure declined by -4.84 to -7.15&#xa0;mmHg across groups. The Platform&#xa0;+&#xa0;Devices group showed greater increases in physical activity (94.62 MET-min/week; 95% CI 66.49 to 122.76) and greater reductions in pulse pressure (-3.90&#xa0;mmHg; -6.58 to -1.22) versus Standard Care. Weight loss was associated with lower odds of hypertension (OR 0.4; 95% CI 0.2-0.7), greater likelihood of hypertension reversal (OR 3.6; 1.2-10.3), and higher probability of achieving normal pulse pressure (OR 1.8; 1.1-3.1). CONCLUSIONS: Dietary lifestyle intervention improved cardiometabolic outcomes, with limited added benefit from digital tools. Weight loss was the primary driver of hemodynamic improvement.

Aged

From human papillomavirus (HPV) infection to HPV-associated cancers in systemic lupus erythematosus: A systematic review and Meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: The current cervix-focused screening paradigm in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) may underestimate extra-cervical anogenital cancer risk. This meta-analysis aimed to quantify the risk of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and HPV-associated cancers in SLE patients. METHODS: A comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed (2010), Embase (2010), and Cochrane Library (2010) to August 8, 2025. Odds Ratios (ORs) and Standardized Incidence Ratios (SIRs) with 95% Confidence Intervals (CIs) were calculated. The study protocol was registered with PROSPERO (CRD420251122192). RESULTS: SLE was associated with significantly increased odds of HPV infection (OR&#xa0;=&#xa0;4.12, 95% CI 2.03, 8.32). We further assessed the risk of HPV-associated malignancies in SLE patients. SLE patients exhibited substantially elevated risks across multiple HPV-associated cancers (SIR&#xa0;=&#xa0;1.90, 95% CI 1.51, 2.38). The risk of cervical cancer was more than doubled (SIR&#xa0;=&#xa0;2.25, 95% CI 1.75, 2.89). Notably, even higher risks were observed for extra-cervical anogenital cancers, namely vulvar/vaginal cancers (SIR&#xa0;=&#xa0;5.60, 95% CI 3.71, 8.43). CONCLUSIONS: SLE is associated with elevated risks of HPV infection and a broad spectrum of HPV-associated cancers. Subgroup analyses suggested that cyclophosphamide use, multiple sexual partners, and Asian populations may constitute higher-risk subgroups. These findings highlight the need for additional prospective evidence to better characterize HPV-associated cancer risks in SLE patients.

Humans

Early hepatic protein responses to dietary restriction-refeeding in Japanese quail: A proteomic investigation.

Feed intake and refeeding after nutrient scarcity induce rapid metabolic adaptations in the poultry liver; however, hepatic proteomic recovery pathways in the early hours post-refeeding remain poorly defined. This study aimed to characterize early liver protein signatures in Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica) recovering from nutritional stress under two refeeding conditions. Eighteen 12-week-old male quails (245.20&#xa0;&#xb1;&#xa0;0.213&#xa0;g) were assigned to three groups (n&#xa0;=&#xa0;6): control fed ad libitum (12.13&#xa0;MJ/kg), 24&#xa0;h feed deprivation followed by 6&#xa0;h refeeding, and 24&#xa0;h low metabolizable energy (6.30&#xa0;MJ/kg) diet followed by 6&#xa0;h refeeding. In total, 854 proteins were identified, of which 515 met the filtering criteria. The low metabolizable energy refeeding showed higher abundance of proteins linked to ATP binding and carbohydrate/carboxylic acid metabolism, alongside detoxification-related proteins, while suppressing translation/RNA-binding machinery and antioxidant pathways. Feed-deprived refeeding enriched in oxidative phosphorylation and mitochondrial complex I assembly with reduced cytoplasmic translation, NMD-related components, and sulfur compound metabolism. A direct comparison indicated divergent recovery strategies: low metabolizable energy refeeding mainly reflected oxidoreductase activity and translation initiation, whereas feed-deprived refeeding potentially enriched mitochondrial ATP production and glutathione-based defenses. Our analysis indicate that 6&#xa0;h of refeeding initiates an early, incomplete recovery toward hepatic homeostasis, with the severity of prior nutritional restriction dictating distinct liver metabolic priorities. Collectively, these findings might provide a preliminary understanding of the hepatic mechanisms involved in recovery from nutrient deprivation and may help in the development of feeding strategies for managing metabolic recovery in poultry. However, these findings should be considered hypothesis-generating pending further validation.

Animals