Pregnancy after kidney transplantation: 40 years single-center experience / Gestação após transplante renal: 40 anos de experiência em centro único

Abstract Background: Kidney transplantation (KT) improves quality of life, including fertility recovery. Objective: to describe outcomes of post-KT pregnancy and long-term patient and graft survival compared to a matched control group of female KT recipients who did not conceive. Methods: retrospective single-center case-control study with female KT recipients from 1977 to 2016, followed-up until 2019. Results: there were 1,253 female KT patients of childbearing age in the study period: 78 (6.2%) pregnant women (cases), with a total of 97 gestations. The median time from KT to conception was 53.0 (21.5 - 91.0) months. Abortion rate was 41% (spontaneous 21.6%, therapeutic 19.6%), preterm delivery, 32%, and at term delivery, 24%. Pre-eclampsia (PE) occurred in 42% of pregnancies that reached at least 20 weeks. The presence of 2 or more risk factors for poor pregnancy outcomes was significantly associated with abortions [OR 3.33 (95%CI 1.43 - 7.75), p = 0.007] and with kidney graft loss in 2 years. The matched control group of 78 female KT patients was comparable on baseline creatinine [1.2 (1.0 - 1.5) mg/dL in both groups, p = 0.95] and urine protein-to-creatinine ratio (UPCR) [0.27 (0.15 - 0.44) vs. 0.24 (0.02 - 0.30), p = 0.06]. Graft survival was higher in cases than in controls in 5 years (85.6% vs 71.5%, p = 0.012) and 10 years (71.9% vs 55.0%, p = 0.012) of follow-up. Conclusion: pregnancy can be successful after KT, but there are high rates of abortions and preterm deliveries. Pre-conception counseling is necessary, and should include ethical aspects.

Resumo Histórico: Transplante renal (TR) melhora qualidade de vida, incluindo recuperação da fertilidade. Objetivo: descrever desfechos gestacionais pós-TR e sobrevida de longo prazo da paciente e do enxerto renal comparada a um grupo controle pareado de receptoras de TR que não conceberam. Métodos: estudo retrospectivo caso-controle com receptoras de TR de 1977 a 2016, acompanhadas até 2019. Resultados: foram identificadas 1.253 receptoras de TR em idade fértil no período do estudo: 78 (6,2%) gestantes (casos), total de 97 gestações. Tempo mediano entre TR até concepção foi 53,0 (21,5 - 91,0) meses. Taxa de aborto foi 41% (espontâneo 21,6%, terapêutico 19,6%), parto prematuro, 32%, e a termo, 24%. Pré-eclâmpsia (PE) ocorreu em 42% das gestações que alcançaram pelo menos 20 semanas. Presença de 2 ou mais fatores de risco para desfechos gestacionais desfavoráveis foi significativamente associada a abortos [OR 3,33 (IC95% 1,43 - 7,75), p = 0,007] e perda de enxerto renal em 2 anos. O grupo controle de 78 mulheres com TR foi comparável na creatinina basal [1,2 (1,0 - 1,5) mg/dL nos dois grupos, p = 0,95] e na relação proteína/creatinina urinária (RPCU) [0,27 (0,15 - 0,44) vs. 0,24 (0,02 - 0,30), p = 0,06]. Sobrevida do enxerto foi maior nos casos que nos controles em 5 anos (85,6% vs. 71,5%, p = 0,012) e 10 anos (71,9% vs. 55,0%, p = 0,012) de acompanhamento. Conclusão: a gestação pode ser bem-sucedida após TR, mas existem altas taxas de abortos e partos prematuros. Aconselhamento pré-concepção é necessário e deve incluir aspectos éticos.

Renal osteodystrophy and clinical outcomes: a prospective cohort study / Osteodistrofia renal e desfechos clínicos: um estudo de coorte prospectivo

Abstract Introduction: Renal osteodystrophy (ROD) refers to a group of bone morphological patterns that derive from distinct pathophysiological mechanisms. Whether the ROD subtypes influence long-term outcomes is unknown. Our objective was to explore the relationship between ROD and clinical outcomes. Methods: This study is a subanalysis of the Brazilian Registry of Bone Biopsies (REBRABO). Samples from individual patients were classified as having osteitis fibrosa (OF), mixed uremic osteodystrophy (MUO), adynamic bone disease (ABD), osteomalacia (OM), normal/minor alterations, and according to turnover/mineralization/volume (TMV) system. Patients were followed for 3.4 yrs. Clinical outcomes were: bone fractures, hospitalization, major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), and death. Results: We enrolled 275 participants, of which 248 (90%) were on dialysis. At follow-up, 28 bone fractures, 97 hospitalizations, 44 MACE, and 70 deaths were recorded. ROD subtypes were not related to outcomes. Conclusion: The incidence of clinical outcomes did not differ between the types of ROD.

Resumo Introdução: Osteodistrofia renal (OR) refere-se a um grupo de padrões morfológicos ósseos que decorrem de mecanismos fisiopatológicos distintos. É desconhecido se os subtipos de OR influenciam desfechos em longo prazo. Nosso objetivo foi explorar as relações entre OR e desfechos. Métodos: Este estudo é uma subanálise do Registro Brasileiro de Biópsias Ósseas (REBRABO). As amostras de cada paciente foram classificadas em osteíte fibrosa (OF), osteodistrofia urêmica mista (MUO), doença óssea adinâmica (ABD), osteomalácia (OM), alterações normais/menores, e pelo sistema Remodelação / Mineralização / Volume (RMV). Os pacientes foram acompanhados por 3,4 anos. Os eventos clínicos foram: fraturas ósseas, hospitalizações, eventos cardiovasculares adversos maiores (MACE), e óbito. Resultados: Analisamos 275 indivíduos, 248 (90%) deles estavam em diálise. No acompanhamento, 28 fraturas ósseas, 97 hospitalizações, 44 MACE e 70 óbitos foram registrados. Os subtipos de OR não foram relacionados aos desfechos clínicos. Conclusão: A incidência de desfechos clínicos não diferiu entre os tipos de OR.

Self-reported mental and physical health is associated with not returning to work in patients with ischemic heart disease.

BACKGROUND: Ischemic Heart Disease (IHD) can lead to prolonged sick leave and loss of ability to work. This study aimed to describe non-return to work (non-RTW) across three IHD subgroups at 3 and at 12 months post discharge, and explore whether baseline characteristics, and patient-reported mental and physical health were associated with work detachment. METHODS: Data from the national cohort study DenHeart were used, including the patient-reported outcomes (PROs) Short-Form 12, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale and HeartQoL measured at discharge and register-based follow-up at 3 and at 12 months. A total of 3873 patients with IHD ≤ 63 years old and part of the workforce prior to hospitalisation, were included in the analyses and divided into three groups: chronic IHD/stable angina, non-STEMI (non-ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction)/unstable angina and STEMI (ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction). A composite outcome of 'prolonged sick leave' and/or 'left the workforce' was defined as non-return to work (non-RTW). Adjusted logistic regression models were performed. RESULTS: Overall, the frequency of non-RTW was 37.7% and 38.0% at 3 and 12 months, respectively, thus not improving with time. The largest proportion of non-RTW was found in STEMI patients, followed by non-STEMI/unstable angina and IHD/stable angina patients. Several clinical and socio-demographic factors, as well as patient-reported mental and physical health were associated with non-RTW among the subgroups. CONCLUSION: The findings demonstrate a need for identifying IHD patients at risk of non-RTW after discharge based on their mental and physical health and a need for initiatives to minimize unwanted non-RTW.

Survival outcomes of neoadjuvant immunochemotherapy versus chemotherapy for locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.

PURPOSE: Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NCT) is the standard preoperative treatment for resectable locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Some studies reported neoadjuvant immunochemotherapy (NICT) could improve pathological response with manageable safety. However, few studies have compared the efficacy and safety of NICT and NCT, especially survival outcomes. In this study, we compared the efficacy and safety of NICT and NCT after a median follow-up of 36.0 months. METHODS: This was a retrospective study with a 1:1 propensity score matching (PSM). Locally advanced ESCC patients treated with neoadjuvant sintilimab plus chemotherapy or chemotherapy followed by esophagectomy were reviewed. The primary outcome was recurrence-free survival (RFS). RESULTS: Forty-five patients were identified in each group by PSM. The pathological complete response (pCR) rate in NICT and NCT group were 28.9% and 8.9% (P = 0.02). The hazard ratio (HR) was 0.396 (95% CI 0.171-0.919, p = 0.025) for RFS and 0.377 (95% CI 0.145-0.981, p = 0.038) for overall survival (OS), 3-year RFS was 80.6% and 62.1%, 3-year OS was 86.2% and 68.1%. Patients with pCR, MPR or downstaging had better 3-year RFS and 3-year OS. The incidences of postoperative complications and treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs) were similar. CONCLUSION: This trial preliminarily shows that NICT improves pathological and survival outcomes over NCT for resectable locally advanced ESCC, with acceptable and manageable safety.

Heart failure subtype after acute kidney injury.

INTRODUCTION: Acute kidney injury (AKI) is associated with increased risk of heart failure (HF). Determining the type of HF experienced by AKI survivors (heart failure with preserved or reduced ejection fraction, HFpEF or HFrEF) could suggest potential mechanisms underlying the association and opportunities for improving post-AKI care. METHODS: In this retrospective study of adults within the Vanderbilt University health system with a diagnosis of HF, we tested whether AKI events in the two years preceding incident HF associated more with HFpEF or HFrEF while controlling for known predictors. HF outcomes were defined by administrative codes and classified as HFpEF or HFrEF by echocardiogram data. We used multivariable logistic regression models to estimate the effects of AKI on the odds of incident HFpEF versus HFrEF. RESULTS: AKI (all stages) trended towards a preferential association with HFpEF in adjusted analyses (adjusted OR 0.80, 95% CI 0.63 - 1.01). Stage 1 AKI was associated with higher odds of HFpEF that was statistically significant (adjusted OR 0.62, 95% CI 0.43 - 0.88), whereas stages 2-3 AKI showed a trend toward HFrEF that did not reach statistical significance (adjusted OR 1.11, 95% CI 0.76 - 1.63). CONCLUSIONS: AKI as a binary outcome trended towards a preferential association with HFpEF. Stage 1 AKI was associated with higher odds of HFpEF, whereas stage 2-3 trended towards an association with HFrEF that did not meet statistical significance. Different mechanisms may predominate in incident HF following mild versus more severe AKI. Close follow-up with particular attention to volume status and cardiac function after discharge is warranted after even mild AKI.

Sex differences in transcatheter aortic valve replacement outcomes among patients with bicuspid aortic stenosis.

BACKGROUND: Despite comprising almost half of all patients undergoing valvular repair, data on transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) in patients with bicuspid aortic stenosis (BAS) are limited. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to evaluate whether there are any sex differences in trends and outcomes of TAVR in this population. METHODS: We utilized the National Inpatient Sample from 2012 to 2020 to identify admissions with BAS who underwent TAVR and analyzed trends and outcomes. Our primary outcome was in-hospital mortality and secondary outcomes were in-hospital complications. We used two models to adjust for demographics (A) and interventions (B). RESULTS: Between 2012 to 2020, there were 76,540 hospitalizations for BAS patients who underwent AVR, among which 6,010 (7.9 %) underwent TAVR. There was an overall increasing trend in number of TAVR cases with a decreasing trend in mortality (2013: 8.7 %, 2020: 1.3 %). TAVR was performed more in males (61.1% vs 38.9 %). Despite the worse baseline characteristics in males, in-hospital mortality (2.4% vs. 1.5 %; OR: 1.584; 95 % CI: 0.621-4.038; p = 0.335) and secondary outcomes were similar across both sexes, even after adjusting for demographics and interventions. CONCLUSION: TAVR in BAS has grown rapidly in the last decade. Males comprised the majority and had more comorbidities, but mortality and complications were similar in both sexes. Despite the increasing number of cases, a decreasing trend in mortality was observed for both sexes ultimately approaching that of SAVR, suggesting that TAVR may be a safe alternative among eligible males and females with bicuspid AS.

Lifetime prevalence of psychiatric comorbidities in patients with bipolar disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Bipolar disorder (BD) is a severe psychiatric disease and part of its burden is related to the high rates of lifetime psychiatric comorbidity (PC), with diagnostic, therapeutic, and prognostic implications. METHODS: Registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021282356). Meta-analyses were performed, searching for relevant papers published from 1993 to 2022 in Medline/PubMed (including E-Pub Ahead of Print), Embase, Cochrane Library (Central), PsycINFO, Scopus, Web of Science and via hand-searching, without language restrictions. 12.698 studies were initially identified, 114 of which were ultimately chosen based on the eligibility criteria. We performed two meta-analyses (prevalence and risk ratio) of mental health conditions among subjects with BD and then conducted a comprehensive examination of moderator effects using multivariable meta-regression models for moderators identified as significant in the univariable analysis. FINDINGS: Overall PC prevalence of at least one disorder was 38.91 % (95 % CI 35.24-42.70) and the most frequent disorders were: anxiety (40.4 % [34.97-46.06]), SUD (30.7 % [23.73-38.73]), ADHD (18.6 % [10.66-30.33]) and Disruptive, impulse-control and conduct disorder (15 % [6.21-31.84). The moderators with higher association with individual prevalences were UN's Human Development Index (HDI), female gender, age, suicide attempt, and age at onset (AAO). INTERPRETATION: It becomes evident that the prevalence of PC among individuals with BD is notably high, surpassing rates observed in the general population. This heightened prevalence persists despite significant heterogeneity across studies. Consequently, it is imperative to redirect clinical focus towards comprehensive mental health assessments, emphasizing personalized and routine screening. Additionally, there is a pressing need for the enhancement of public policies to create a supportive environment for individuals with BD, ensuring better therapeutic conditions and sustained assistance. By addressing these aspects, we can collectively strive towards fostering improved mental health outcomes for individuals with BD.

"Aesthetic outcomes of different materials for delayed, single-tooth restorations for immediately placed implants. A randomized controlled clinical trial".

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study is to compare the aesthetic outcomes of metal porcelain (C), lithium disilicate (T1) and porcelain-layered zirconium (T2) immediate implant-supported single crowns in the anterior maxilla. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-five immediate dental implants were provided for 45 patients that required the extraction of a single tooth in the anterior maxilla. A temporary prosthesis was provided at 8 weeks after placement followed by the final prosthesis at 24 weeks post-implantation. The patients were randomly allocated into 3 groups: 15 patients in the control group (C) received a metal-porcelain restoration, 15 patients (T1) received a lithium disilicate (LD) restoration and 15 patients (T2) received a porcelain-layered, zirconium (Z) restoration. Pink (PES) and White (WES) esthetic scores, radiographic bone levels, periodontal parameters and patient's esthetic satisfaction using a visual analogue scale (VAS) were evaluated at the time of final restoration placement (t0) and at 12-months post-loading (t12). RESULTS: No implants were lost during the duration of this study. Statistically significant higher WES and VAS scores (p <0.05) were recorded in T1 vs C and T1 vs T2 groups respectively. Similar radiographic bone levels and periodontal parameters were recorded in all groups. CONCLUSION: Within the limitations of this study, it was concluded that T1 restorations provided better WES outcomes when compared to C restorations and better VAS scores when compared to T2 restorations at 12 months post-loading. Besides, different material interphases did not have an impact in PES, bone levels or periodontal parameters. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: There is limited data comparing aesthetic outcomes of implant supported single crowns made of different ceramic materials based on accepted and comparable indexes and the evaluation of the patient's perspective regarding these aesthetic outcomes.

The Effect of Controlled versus Uncontrolled Hypertension on Outcomes of Carotid Revascularization Procedures.

INTRODUCTION: Hypertension has been implicated as a strong predictive factor for poorer outcomes in patients undergoing various vascular procedures. However, limited research is available that examines the effect of uncontrolled hypertension on outcomes after carotid revascularization. We aimed to determine which carotid revascularization procedure yields the best outcome in this patient population. METHODS: We studied patients undergoing Carotid Endarterectomy (CEA), Transfemoral Carotid Artery Stenting (TFCAS), or Transcarotid Artery Revascularization (TCAR) from April 2020 to June 2022 using data from Vascular Quality Initiative (VQI). Patients were stratified into two groups: those with controlled hypertension (cHTN) and those with uncontrolled hypertension (uHTN). Patients with cHTN were those with HTN treated with medication and a blood pressure <130/80. Patients with uHTN had a blood pressure >130/80. Our primary outcomes were in-hospital stroke, death, myocardial infarction (MI), and 30-day mortality. Our secondary outcomes were postoperative hypotension/hypertension, reperfusion syndrome, prolonged length of stay (PLOS; >1 day), stroke/death and stroke/death/MI. We used logistic regression models for the multivariate analysis. RESULTS: A total of 34,653 CEA (uHTN= 11,347, 32.7%), 8,199 TFCAS (uHTN=2,307, 28.1%), and 17,309 TCAR (uHTN=4,990, 28.8%) patients were included in this study. There was no significant difference in age between cHTN and uHTN patients for each carotid revascularization procedure. However, compared to cHTN, patients with uncontrolled HTN had significantly more comorbidities. Uncontrolled HTN was associated with an increased risk of combined in-hospital stroke/death/MI following CEA (aOR=1.56 [95% CI: 1.30-1.87]; p<0.001), TFCAS (aOR=1.59 [95% CI: 1.21-2.08]; p<0.001) and TCAR (aOR=1.39 [95% CI: 1.12-1.73]; p=0.003) compared to controlled HTN. Additionally, uHTN was associated with PLOS following all carotid revascularization methods. For the sub-analysis of patients with uHTN, TFCAS was associated with an increased risk of stroke (aOR=1.82 [95% CI: 1.39-2.37]; p<0.001), in-hospital death (aOR=3.73 [95% CI: 2.25-6.19]; p<0.001), reperfusion syndrome (aOR=6.24 [95% CI: 3.57-10.93]; p<0.001), and extended LOS (aOR=1.87 [95% CI: 1.51-2.32]; p<0.001) compared to CEA. There was no statistically significant difference between the outcomes of TCAR compared to CEA. CONCLUSION: The results from this study show that patients with uncontrolled hypertension are at a higher risk of stroke and death postoperatively compared to patients with controlled hypertension; highlighting the importance of treating HTN before undergoing elective carotid revascularization. Additionally, in patients with uHTN, TFCAS yields the worst outcomes while CEA and TCAR proved to be the safer interventions. Uncontrolled hypertensive patients with symptomatic carotid disease treated with CEA or TCAR have better outcomes compared to those treated with TFCAS.

Born on the wrong side of the tracks: Exploring the causal effects of segregation on infant health.

Prior research has found that a high level of residential racial segregation, or the degree to which racial/ethnic groups are isolated from one another, is associated with worsened infant health outcomes, particularly among non-Hispanic (NH) Black infant populations. However, because exposure to segregation is non-random, it is unclear whether and to what extent segregation is causally linked to infant health. To overcome this empirical limitation, we leverage exogenous variation in the placement of railroad tracks in the 19th century to predict contemporary segregation, an approach first introduced by Ananat (2011). In alignment with prior literature, we find that residential segregation has statistically significant associations with negative birth outcomes among Black infant populations in the area. Using OLS methods underestimates the negative impacts of segregation on infant health. We fail to detect comparable effects on health outcomes among NH White infant populations. Further, we identify several key mechanisms by which residential segregation could influence health outcomes among Black infant populations, including lower access to prenatal care during the first trimester, higher levels of anti-Black prejudice, greater transportation barriers, and increased food insecurity. Given that poor birth outcomes have adverse effects on adults' health and well-being, the findings suggest that in-utero exposure to residential segregation could have important implications for Black-White inequality over the life course.

Electronic health record-integrated questionnaires in colorectal surgery patients as a new standard: Could preoperative bowel function be used to predict postoperative patient-reported outcomes?

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Patient-reported bowel function has been previously shown to correlate with quality of life and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) after colorectal surgery. We examined the relationship between preoperative patient-reported bowel function and postoperative symptom reporting using an electronic health record-integrated symptom management (eSyM). METHODS: Patients who underwent major abdominal surgery for colorectal cancer at a single institution were included. Preoperative bowel function was assessed prospectively using the validated colorectal functional outcome (COREFO) questionnaire. Patients with electronic portal access received automated eSyM questionnaires after discharge. Logistic regression was used to analyze the association between COREFO scores and eSyM use. RESULTS: 169 patients underwent surgery between April 2020 and June 2022 (median age 64, 46.7% female). 148 completed COREFO questionnaires preoperatively; 54 (36.5%) had scores ≥15. Of the 108 patients with portal access, 67.6% used eSyM postoperatively. Among users, 72.3% (47/73) reported severe symptoms. Those with COREFO scores ≥15 were more likely to use eSyM (80.0% vs. 62.7%) though this difference was not significant (p = 0.079). CONCLUSIONS: We found that eSyM utilization regardless of preoperative baseline bowel function was high in this cohort of colorectal surgery patients. This suggests that electronically captured PROs is an effective way for patients to communicate symptoms to their care teams in a postsurgical setting.

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: treatment outcomes, quality of life and implications for practice.

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is the most common spinal disorder among children and adolescents, with most cases being diagnosed around puberty. While the majority of people with AIS do not undergo treatment, a small but significant number are treated, depending on the extent of their spinal curvature. Treatment typically involves bracing, which requires substantial adherence, and/or surgery, which is invasive and permanent. Furthermore, decisions about treatment often need to be made at a critical stage of the person's development. This article examines the evidence on AIS and its treatment, synthesising the current literature and drawing from the authors' empirical work to explore the clinical outcomes of bracing and surgery, as well as the longer-term effects on people's quality of life. Drawing from this evidence, the authors provide guidance for nurses and healthcare professionals who care for people with AIS.

Antiarrhythmic preferences and outcomes post DC cardioversion for atrial fibrillation, an Australian rural perspective.

INTRODUCTION: Direct current cardioversion (DCCV) remains one of the recommended management strategies for symptomatic atrial fibrillation (AF). Antiarrhythmic drugs (AAD) are prescribed post procedure to maintain sinus rhythm (SR). Limited literature exists on the AAD prescribing practices and their efficacy, post-DCCV in rural Australia. OBJECTIVE: The primary aim was to determine the preferred AAD post-DCCV and the factors affecting AAD prescribing practices. The secondary aim was to assess the efficacy of the AAD in maintaining SR. DESIGN: A retrospective observational audit of patients with non-valvular AF who underwent successful elective DCCV for symptomatic AF, during 2015-2020 at a regional hospital in New South Wales (NSW) (Dubbo Base Hospital). Patients were followed up for a duration of 12 months post-DCCV. RESULTS: 233 patients underwent successful DCCV during the study duration. Amiodarone was the preferred AAD of choice post-DCCV followed by sotalol and flecainide, respectively (36.5% vs. 27.8% vs. 1.3%). 35.2% patients were not prescribed AAD. Amiodarone and sotalol had similar but modest efficacies and neither were superior to no AAD, in maintaining SR 12 months post-DCCV (AF recurrence rate 61.5% vs. 68.2% vs. 71.6% respectively, p = 0.37). Antecedent cerebrovascular accident (CVA), pulmonary disease, smoking, prior treatment with digoxin, diuretics and left ventricular (LV) dysfunction were factors that influenced AAD prescribing practices. CONCLUSION: The study demonstrates equal efficacies of amiodarone, sotalol and no AAD in maintaining SR 12 months post-DCCV. Prescribing practices post-DCCV at Dubbo Base Hospital differ from observed national trends and guidelines. AAD prescription requires a multifaceted approach with a key consideration to prioritise safety over efficacy, being mindful of challenges in delivering optimal healthcare in a rural setting.

Association of fetal fraction and cell-free fetal DNA with adverse pregnancy outcomes: A systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Adverse pregnancy outcomes, which can be caused by multiple factors, present a significant threat to the health of mothers and their babies. Cell-free fetal DNA (cffDNA) from placental trophoblast cells might be able to reflect placental and fetal status. Previous studies have yielded controversial results regarding the association of FF or cffDNA with various adverse pregnancy outcomes. A previous study has attempted to systematically assess the association between low fetal fraction (FF) and adverse pregnancy outcomes, but it failed to perform quantitative analyses due to the few studies included. In the present study, we attempted to quantitatively assess the association of FF (or cffDNA) with adverse pregnancy outcomes and further analyze the causes of heterogeneity. OBJECTIVES: To investigate the association of high/low FF or cffDNA with adverse pregnancy outcomes. SEARCH STRATEGY: We searched the databases of PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science from January 1, 1990, to June 15, 2022 in this meta-analysis. SELECTION CRITERIA: Studies on the relationships of adverse pregnancy outcomes in women with FF or cell free DNA were included. Non-English literature was excluded. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Data about pregnancy outcomes and cell free DNA were extracted and meta-analyzed. Subgroup analysis was performed by different outcomes. MAIN RESULTS: There were 11 studies included involving 8280 participants. No significant heterogeneity was observed among the studies (I2 = 27%, 25%), and a fixed-effect model was used for weighted quantitative analysis. The results revealed that the FF or cffDNA during pregnancy was significantly associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes in pregnant women (OR = 1.57, 95% CI [1.24, 1.99], P = 0.233). The overall incidence of the maternal adverse outcomes was 8% (95% CI: 5-13). Subgroup analysis of different outcomes showed an evident association between low FF or cffDNA and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) (OR = 1.76, 95% CI [1.36, 2.27], P = 0.581). There was no evidence that the occurrence of spontaneous preterm birth (sPTB) and placental abnormality was associated with FF or cffDNA. No association was observed between low FF or cffDNA during pregnancy and adverse outcomes in fetuses (OR = 1.39, 95% CI [0.99, 1.94], P = 0.242). The overall incidence of adverse outcomes in fetuses was 8% (95% CI: 6-11). There were controversies over the association between high FF or cffDNA and HDP, and sPTB and small for gestational age infant, among different studies. CONCLUSIONS: Pregnant women with low FF or cffDNA during the first or second trimester of pregnancy have an overall increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, especially HDP. However, the association between FF and various pregnancy outcomes needs to be further explored by more prospective studies.

Global drivers of mangrove loss in protected areas.

Despite increasing efforts and investment in mangrove conservation, mangrove cover continues to decline globally. The extent to which protected area (PA) management effectively prevents mangrove loss globally across differing management objectives and governance types is not well understood. We combined remote sensing data with PA information to identify the extent and the drivers of mangrove loss across PAs with distinct governance types and protection levels based on categories developed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Mangrove loss due to storms and erosion was prevalent across all governance types and most IUCN categories. However, the extent of human-driven loss differed across governance types and IUCN categories. Loss was highest in national government PAs. Private, local, shared arrangement, and subnational government agencies had low human-driven mangrove loss. Human-driven loss was highest in PAs with the highest level of restrictions on human activities (IUCN category I) due to mangrove conversion to areas for commodity production (e.g., aquaculture), whereas PAs that allowed sustainable resource use (e.g., category VI) experienced low levels of human-driven mangrove loss. Because category I PAs with high human-driven loss were primarily governed by national government agencies, conservation outcomes in highly PAs might depend not only on the level of restrictions, but also on the governance type. Mangrove loss across different governance types and IUCN categories varied regionally. Specific governance types and IUCN categories thus seemed more effective in preventing mangrove loss in certain regions. Overall, we found that natural drivers contributed to global mangrove loss across all PAs, whereas human-driven mangrove loss was lowest in PAs with subnational- to local-level governance and PAs with few restrictions on human activities.

Factores globales en la pérdida de manglares en las áreas protegidas Resumen A pesar del incremento en los esfuerzos e inversión de la conservación de los manglares, su cobertura sigue disminuyendo en todo el mundo. No se conoce muy bien el grado al que el manejo de las áreas protegidas (AP) previene eficientemente la pérdida mundial de los manglares en los diferentes objetivos de manejo y tipos de gestión. Combinamos los datos de teledetección con información de las AP para identificar el grado y los factores de la pérdida de manglares en las AP con tipos de gestión claros y niveles de protección basados en las categorías desarrolladas por la Unión Internacional para la Conservación de la Naturaleza (UICN). La pérdida por tormentas y erosión fue común en todos los tipos de gestión y en la mayoría de las categorías de la UICN. Sin embargo, el grado de pérdida antropogénica difirió entre los tipos de gestión y las categorías de la UICN. La pérdida fue mayor en las AP de gobiernos nacionales. Las agencias privadas, locales, de acuerdo compartido y las gubernamentales subnacionales tuvieron una pérdida antropogénica baja. La pérdida antropogénica fue mayor en la AP con el nivel más alto de restricción para las actividades humanas (categoría I de la UICN) debido a la conversión del manglar en áreas de producción de mercancía (p. ej.: acuacultura), mientras que las AP que permiten el uso sostenible de los recursos (p. ej.: categoría VI) tuvieron niveles bajos de pérdida antropogénica. Ya que las AP de categoría I con mayor pérdida antropogénica están gestionadas principalmente por agencias gubernamentales, puede que los resultados de conservación en las AP con mayor pérdida dependan no sólo del nivel de restricciones sino también del tipo de gestión. La pérdida del manglar en los diferentes tipos de gestión y en las categorías de la UICN varió en cada región. Por lo tanto, los tipos específicos de gestión y las categorías de la UICN parecen ser más eficientes en la prevención de la pérdida de manglares en ciertas regiones. En general, encontramos que los factores naturales contribuyen a la pérdida mundial del manglar en todas las AP, mientras que la pérdida antropogénica fue más baja en las AP con un nivel de subnacional a local de gestión y en las AP con pocas restricciones para la actividad humana.

Impact of Prevalent Dietary Pattern on Serum Vitamin B12 Status and Its Association With Inflammation Among Reproductive Age Women.

SCOPE: Association between vitamin B12 deficiency (VB12D) and dietary patterns being well documented has bearing on obstetrics and neonatal outcomes. However, relationship between VB12D and serum inflammatory markers (IMs), particularly in vegetarian diet and Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), remains elusive. This cross-sectional study assesses VB12D and IMs among reproductive age women consuming different diets. METHODS AND RESULTS: Nonvegetarian (PCOS, n = 104; healthy, n = 148) and vegetarian women (PCOS n = 112; healthy, n = 186) are for evaluated clinical, biochemical, hormonal assessment, inflammatory, and four vitamin B 12 (VB12) markers. VB12D is defined by Fedosov's wellness quotient (4cB12). Using 4cB12, prevalence of VB12D is discerned in 54.4% (PCOS: 72.1%; healthy 36.5%) and 93.4% (PCOS: 95.9%; healthy: 91.9%) among nonvegetarians and vegetarians, respectively. Vegetarian PCOS women depict lowest median (interquartile range [IQR]) of serum B12 76.2(72.6) pg mL-1, holotranscobalamine (HTC) 37.9(11.3) and highest homocysteine (HCY) 40.32(6.0) µmol L-1, methylmalonic acid (MMA) 352.26(156.7) nmol L-1 with highest Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) and IMs (Monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1), High sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), Tumour Necrosis Factor alpha (TNF-α) and Interleukin 6 (IL-6)). Significant correlation of serum hs-CRP, TNF-α, and IL-6 with VB12 markers is observed. CONCLUSION: The VB12D is rampant among reproductive age women that gets exacerbated by PCOS or vegetarian diet. It is directly correlated with magnitude of proinflammatory markers. The results carry substantial implications for public health policies aimed at improving preconception maternal VB12 status for better future pregnancy and offspring outcomes.

Impact of ventricular assist device use on pediatric heart transplant waitlist mortality: Analysis of the scientific registry of transplant recipients database.

BACKGROUND: Children awaiting heart transplant (Tx) have a high risk of death due to donor organ scarcity. Historically, ventricular assist devices (VADs) reduced waitlist mortality, prompting increased VAD use. We sought to determine whether the VAD survival benefit persists in the current era. METHODS: Using the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients, we identified patients listed for Tx between 3/22/2016 and 9/1/2020. We compared characteristics of VAD and non-VAD groups at Tx listing. Cox proportional hazards models were used to identify risk factors for 1-year waitlist mortality. RESULTS: Among 5054 patients, 764 (15%) had a VAD at Tx listing. The VAD group was older with more mechanical ventilation and renal impairment. Unadjusted waitlist mortality was similar between groups; the curves crossed ~90 days after listing (p = .55). In multivariable analysis, infant age (HR 2.77, 95%CI 2.13-3.60), Black race (HR 1.57, 95%CI 1.31-1.88), congenital heart disease (HR 1.23, 95%CI 1.04-1.46), renal impairment (HR 2.67, 95%CI 2.19-3.26), inotropes (HR 1.28, 95%CI 1.09-1.52), and mechanical ventilation (HR 2.23, 95%CI 1.84-2.70) were associated with 1-year waitlist mortality. VADs were not associated with mortality in the first 90 waitlist days but were protective for those waiting ≥90 days (HR 0.43, 95%CI 0.26-0.71). CONCLUSIONS: In the current era, VADs reduce waitlist mortality, but only for those waitlisted ≥90 days. The differential effect by race, size, and VAD type is less clear. These findings suggest that Tx listing without VAD may be reasonable if a short waitlist time is anticipated, but VADs may benefit those expected to wait >90 days.

Successful Aging and Subjective Aging: Toward a Framework to Research a Neglected Connection.

Research related to subjective aging, which describes how individuals perceive, interpret and evaluate their own aging, has substantially grown in the past two decades. Evidence from longitudinal studies shows that subjective aging predicts health, quality of life, and functioning in later life. However, the existing literature on successful aging has mostly neglected the role of subjective aging. This paper proposes an extended framework of successful aging linking subjective aging conceptually and empirically to Rowe and Kahn's (1997) three original key criteria of successful aging (i.e., avoiding disease and disability, maintaining high cognitive and physical function, and engagement with life). A particular focus is placed on subjective aging as an antecedent of successful aging. A review of the empirical subjective aging literature shows that subjective aging concepts consistently predict all three of Rowe and Kahn's criteria of successful aging. Mechanisms underlying these relations are discussed at three levels, namely psychological, behavioral, and physiological pathways. The proposed addition also takes into consideration the interconnections between subjective aging and successful aging throughout the lifespan and across historical time. Finally, we discuss the importance of facilitating successful aging through systematic interventions that support more positive views of aging at the individual and societal level.

Robust integration of secondary outcomes information into primary outcome analysis in the presence of missing data.

In clinical and observational studies, secondary outcomes are frequently collected alongside the primary outcome for each subject, yet their potential to improve the analysis efficiency remains underutilized. Moreover, missing data, commonly encountered in practice, can introduce bias to estimates if not appropriately addressed. This article presents an innovative approach that enhances the empirical likelihood-based information borrowing method by integrating missing-data techniques, ensuring robust data integration. We introduce a plug-in inverse probability weighting estimator to handle missingness in the primary analysis, demonstrating its equivalence to the standard joint estimator under mild conditions. To address potential bias from missing secondary outcomes, we propose a uniform mapping strategy, imputing incomplete secondary outcomes into a unified space. Extensive simulations highlight the effectiveness of our method, showing consistent, efficient, and robust estimators under various scenarios involving missing data and/or misspecified secondary models. Finally, we apply our proposal to the Uniform Data Set from the National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center, exemplifying its practical application.