Efficacy of teplizumab for treatment of type 1 diabetes: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

BACKGROUND: The management of Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) is a significant clinical challenge. This study evaluated the efficacy of teplizumab, an immunomodulatory drug, in patients with T1DM, using a systematic review and meta-analysis approach. METHODS: We systematically searched multiple databases including Medline, Scopus, and others up to 10 January 2024, without language or regional restrictions. We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing teplizumab with placebo in T1DM patients. RESULTS: Our analysis incorporated 8 RCTs, predominantly involving participants aged 7-35 years, diagnosed with T1DM and treated with 14-day courses of teplizumab. The primary outcomes included insulin use, C-peptide levels, and HbA1c levels. We observed a significant reduction in insulin use in the teplizumab group standardised mean difference of -0.50 (95% Confidence Interval [CI]: -0.76 to -0.23, p < 0.001; I2 = 49%). C-peptide levels were consistently higher in the teplizumab group, indicating improved endogenous insulin production. However, no significant change was noted in HbA1c levels between the groups. Quality assessment indicated a low risk of bias in most studies. CONCLUSIONS: Teplizumab has a significant impact on reducing insulin dependence and enhancing endogenous insulin production in T1DM patients. However, its effect on long-term glycaemic control, as indicated by HbA1c levels, remains inconclusive.

The global prevalence of depression, anxiety, and sleep disorder among patients coping with Post COVID-19 syndrome (long COVID): a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Post COVID-19 syndrome, also known as "Long COVID," is a complex and multifaceted condition that affects individuals who have recovered from SARS-CoV-2 infection. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to comprehensively assess the global prevalence of depression, anxiety, and sleep disorder in individuals coping with Post COVID-19 syndrome. METHODS: A rigorous search of electronic databases was conducted to identify original studies until 24 January 2023. The inclusion criteria comprised studies employing previously validated assessment tools for depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders, reporting prevalence rates, and encompassing patients of all age groups and geographical regions for subgroup analysis Random effects model was utilized for the meta-analysis. Meta-regression analysis was done. RESULTS: The pooled prevalence of depression and anxiety among patients coping with Post COVID-19 syndrome was estimated to be 23% (95% CI: 20%-26%; I2 = 99.9%) based on data from 143 studies with 7,782,124 participants and 132 studies with 9,320,687 participants, respectively. The pooled prevalence of sleep disorder among these patients, derived from 27 studies with 15,362 participants, was estimated to be 45% (95% CI: 37%-53%; I2 = 98.7%). Subgroup analyses based on geographical regions and assessment scales revealed significant variations in prevalence rates. Meta-regression analysis showed significant correlations between the prevalence and total sample size of studies, the age of participants, and the percentage of male participants. Publication bias was assessed using Doi plot visualization and the Peters test, revealing a potential source of publication bias for depression (p = 0.0085) and sleep disorder (p = 0.02). However, no evidence of publication bias was found for anxiety (p = 0.11). CONCLUSION: This systematic review and meta-analysis demonstrate a considerable burden of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders, among individuals recovering from COVID-19. The findings emphasize the need for comprehensive mental health support and tailored interventions for patients experiencing persistent symptoms after COVID-19 recovery.

Association between sleep quality with maternal and neonatal outcomes during the covid-19 pandemic.

AIM: Sleep disorders during pregnancy can impact maternal and neonatal outcomes. The objective of this study is to examine the relationship between sleep quality and maternal and neonatal outcomes during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHOD: This prospective cohort study was conducted at the Educational-Therapeutic Center of Shohadaye Yaftabad Referral Hospital in Tehran, Iran, from December 2020 to September 2022. A total of 198 eligible participants were randomly assigned to either the sleep disorders group or the no sleep disorders group. Data were collected through demographic questionnaires, the Corona Disease Anxiety Scale (CDAS) questionnaire, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and the checklist for maternal and neonatal outcomes. RESULTS: At baseline, the sleep disorders and no sleep disorders groups were similar in terms of age, body mass index (before pregnancy), education level, employment status, gravida, parity, abortion, and history of COVID-19. Within the sleep disorders group, there was a statistically significant, direct linear correlation between sleep disorders and FBS 34-36 weeks (r = 0.33, P < 0.001) as well as Corona Disease Anxiety (CDA) (r = 0.35, P < 0.001). The linear regression results indicated that for every unit increase in sleep disorders, the risk of FBS 34-36 weeks increased by 1.09 times (ß = 1.09, P < 0.001). Additionally, sleep disorders increased the risk of CDA by 1.36 times (ß = 1.36, P < 0.001). The results showed no statistically significant differences in terms of birth weight, type of delivery (vaginal or cesarean section), gestational age (preterm or full term), length of labor stages (first and second stage), Apgar score at minutes 1 and 5, and NICU admission between the two groups. CONCLUSION: Based on the results, a certain degree of correlation exists between sleep quality and FBS at 34-36 weeks and CDA. These findings underscore the need for future public health guidelines to formulate detailed strategies to improve sleep quality during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Magnesium sulfate for fetal neuroprotection in preterm pregnancy: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

BACKGROUND: Intravenous administration of magnesium sulfate (MgSO4) to expectant individuals before childbirth, has been evaluated to reduce the likelihood of mortality and occurrence cerebral palsy in their offspring. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis conducted to determine if were the prophylactic use of magnesium sulfate in women at risk for preterm delivery leads to decrease in the incidence of death or cerebral palsy. METHODS: A comprehensive search of electronic databases was done to identify relevant studies. Selection of eligible studies was based on predetermined inclusion criteria. Data extraction was performed, and the methodological quality of the selected studies was assessed using appropriate evaluative tools. A meta-analysis was carried out to estimate the overall effect of intravenous administration of magnesium sulfate on the incidence of death or cerebral palsy. RESULTS: A total of 7 studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the final analysis. No significant publication bias was observed. The risk of fetal neurological impairment was significantly lower in the MgSO4 group compared to the control group relative risk (RR = 0.70, 95% CI: 0.56 to 0.87; I20%). However, neonatal mortality was not significantly associated with MgSO4 injection. (RR = 1.03, 95% CI: 0.88 to 1.21; I2 = 42%). Subgroup analysis was done based on the bolus dosage of MgSO4 and the duration of the trial follow-up. revealing a non-significant differences between-group. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated that MgSO4 administration can improve fetal neurological impairment and cerebral palsy but is not linked to reducing mortality. Further studies are necessary to strengthen the evidence and clarify the underlying mechanisms.

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) as a potential marker of endometriosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: The existing literature on the association between BDNF protein levels and endometriosis presents inconsistent findings. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to synthesize the available evidence and evaluate the possible relationship between BDNF protein levels and endometriosis. METHODS: Electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, Scopus, PsycINFO, and Web of Science) were used to conduct a comprehensive literature search from inception to June 2023. The search strategy included relevant keywords and medical subject headings (MeSH) terms related to BDNF, endometriosis, and protein levels. A random-effects model was used for the meta-analysis, and to explore heterogeneity subgroup analyses were performed. funnel plots and statistical tests were used for assessing the publication bias. RESULTS: A total of 12 studies were included. The pooled standardized mean difference (SMD) of BDNF levels between women with endometriosis and controls was 0.87 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.34 to 1.39, p = 0.001; I2 = 93%). The results showed that blood levels of BDNF are significantly higher in endometriosis patients (SMD: 1.13 95% CI 0.54 to 1.73, p = 0.0002; I2 = 93%). No significant publication bias was observed based on the results of Egger's regression test ((p = 0.15). CONCLUSION: This study revealed a significant difference between patients diagnosed with endometriosis and healthy control in the level of BDNF. The results indicate that women with endometriosis have higher levels of BDNF. Further studies are needed to be undertaken to investigate the role of BDNF in endometriosis pathophysiology and the diagnostic value of BDNF in endometriosis.

Global prevalence of obesity and overweight among medical students: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Obesity is a global health concern, and understanding its prevalence among medical students is crucial for shaping targeted interventions. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to comprehensively assess the prevalence of obesity and overweight among medical students. METHODS: A systematic literature search was conducted across major databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, in order to identify relevant studies that evaluated obesity and overweight among medical students. Inclusion criteria encompassed published and peer-reviewed studies reporting the prevalence of obesity among medical students. RESULTS: A total of 1245 studies were screened based on their titles and abstracts, and 99 studies comprised a total sample size of 47,455 medical students across diverse geographical regions were included in this study. The overall pooled prevalence of overweight among medical students was estimated at 18% (95% CI: 17%-20%), with obesity at 9% (95% CI: 7%-11%). The combined prevalence of excess weight (overweight and obesity) was calculated to be 24% (95% CI: 22%-27%). Meta-regression results indicated a significant correlation between study year and overweight/obesity prevalence (p < 0.05), with a trend towards increasing prevalence over time. Male medical students exhibited a higher pooled prevalence, increasing with the percentage of male participants. CONCLUSION: This systematic review and meta-analysis provide a comprehensive overview of the prevalence of obesity among medical students globally. In summary, obesity and overweight present a substantial worldwide health concern, especially among susceptible groups such as medical students, whose prevalence is on the rise. It is crucial to grasp the extent and contributing factors of obesity among medical students to formulate precise interventions aimed at fostering healthier habits and alleviating the adverse impacts of obesity on both physical and mental health.

Association between opioid abuse and COVID-19 susceptibility: a propensity score matched study.

BACKGROUND: Opioid use disorder (OUD) has been associated with adverse health outcomes, and its potential impact on COVID-19 outcomes is of significant concern. This study aimed to assess the susceptibility and clinical outcomes of hospitalized COVID-19 patients with OUD using a propensity score-matched design. METHODS: A historical cohort study was conducted in Alborz province, Iran, during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic. Patients aged 18 years and above with confirmed COVID-19 were included in the study. OUD was defined as a compulsive urge to use opioids or opioid-derivative drugs. Non-opioid abusers with COVID-19 were selected as the control group. Data on demographics, clinical characteristics, laboratory factors, comorbidities, and vital signs were collected. Propensity score matching (PSM) was used to balance the groups and assess the impact of OUD on ICU admission, mortality, the need for intubation, and the severity of pulmonary involvement on CT scans. RESULTS: A total of 442 patients were included in the study, with 351 discharged and 34 deceased. The PSM analysis showed that OUD was not significantly associated with ICU admission (OR: 1.87, 95% CI: 0.22-2.91, p = 0.631). However, opium users had an increased risk of mortality (OR: 2.38, 95% CI: 1.30-4.35, p = 0.005) and a higher likelihood of requiring intubation (OR: 3.57, 95% CI: 1.38-9.39, p = 0.009) compared to non-opioid abusers. The severity of pulmonary involvement on CT scans did not show a significant association with OUD. CONCLUSION: OUD among hospitalized COVID-19 patients was associated with an increased risk of mortality and the need for intubation. These findings highlight the importance of addressing OUD as a potential risk factor in the management and treatment of COVID-19 patients. Further research is warranted to explore the underlying mechanisms and develop appropriate interventions to mitigate the impact of OUD on COVID-19 outcomes.

Levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) among patients with COVID-19: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Many individuals have been suffering from consistent neurological and neuropsychiatric manifestations even after the remission of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a protein involved in the regulation of several processes, including neuroplasticity, neurogenesis, and neuronal differentiation, and has been linked to a range of neurological and psychiatric disorders. In this study, we aimed to synthesize the available evidence on the profile of BDNF in COVID-19. A comprehensive search was done in the Web of Science core collection, Scopus, and MEDLINE (PubMed), and Embase to identify relevant studies reporting the level of BDNF in patients with COVID-19 or those suffering from long COVID. We used the NEWCASTLE-OTTAWA tool for quality assessment. We pooled the effect sizes of individual studies using the random effect model for our meta-analysis. Fifteen articles were included in the systematic review. The sample sizes ranged from 16 to 183 participants. Six studies compared the level of BDNF in COVID-19 patients with healthy controls. The pooled estimate of the standardized mean difference in BDNF level between patients with COVID-19 and healthy individuals was - 0.84 (95% CI - 1.49 to - 0.18, p = 0.01, I2 = 81%) indicating a significantly lower BDNF level in patients with COVID-19. Seven studies assessed BDNF in different severity statuses of patients with COVID-19. The pooled estimate of the standardized mean difference in BDNF level was - 0.53 (95% CI - 0.85 to - 0.21, p = 0.001, I2 = 46%), indicating a significantly lower BDNF level in patients with more severe COVID-19. Three studies evaluated BDNF levels in COVID-19 patients through different follow-up periods. Only one study assessed the BDNF levels in long COVID patients. Sensitivity analyses did not alter the significance of the association. In this study, we showed a significant dysregulation of BDNF following COVID-19 infection. These findings may support the pathogenesis behind the long-lasting effects of this disease among infected patients. PROSPERO: CRD42023413536.

Investigating oral health among US adults with sleep disorder: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: This study aims to investigate the relationship between sleep disorders and oral health outcomes among a representative sample of the United States population. METHODS: The study sample comprised 6,161 participants who participated in the NHANES 2017-2018, representing a population of 255,939,599. Oral health outcomes were assessed using the Oral Health Questionnaire (OHQ), covering dental pain, periodontal disease, bone loss, emotional perceptions of oral health, and impact on daily life. Sleep disorders were evaluated using questions related to sleep trouble and daytime sleepiness. RESULTS: Analysis of the NHANES 2017-2018 dataset, revealed notable associations between sleep disorders and oral health outcomes. Individuals with sleep disorders were more likely to report dental pain (19.79% vs. 11.8%), periodontal issues (19.5% vs. 12.25%), and feeling bad or embarrassed about their oral health (21% vs. 12%), compared to those without sleep disorders. Difficulty due to oral health issues was also more prevalent among participants with sleep disorders (32.6% vs. 12.9%). Adjusted models demonstrated that individuals with sleep disorders had a significantly higher likelihood of experiencing oral aches [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.58 (1.22-2.22)], reporting negative emotions about oral health [aOR = 1.59 (1.06-2.37)], and encountering challenges in school or job performance [aOR = 2.27 (1.47-3.51)], compared to individuals without sleep disorders (refer to Table 3). Other significant covariates affecting oral health outcomes included smoking, income, and education level. CONCLUSIONS: This study reveals a compelling association between sleep disorders and adverse oral health outcomes in the U.S.

Epidemic size, trend and spatiotemporal mapping of SARS-CoV-2 using geographical information system in Alborz Province, Iran.

BACKGROUND: The first confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Iran were reported in Qom city. Subsequently, the neighboring provinces and gradually all 31 provinces of Iran were involved. This study aimed to investigate the case fatility rate, basic reproductive number in different period of epidemic, projection of daily and cumulative incidence cases and also spatiotemporal mapping of SARS-CoV-2 in Alborz province, Iran. METHODS: A confirmed case of COVID-19 infection was defined as a case with a positive result of viral nucleic acid testing in respiratory specimens. Serial interval (SI) was fitted by gamma distribution and considered the likelihood-based R0 using a branching process with Poisson likelihood. Seven days average of cases, deaths, doubling times and CFRs used to draw smooth charts. kernel density tool in Arc GIS (Esri) software has been employed to compute hot spot area of the study site. RESULTS: The maximum-likelihood value of R0 was 2.88 (95%, CI: 2.57-3.23) in the early 14 days of epidemic. The case fatility rate for Alborz province (Iran) on March 10, was 8.33% (95%, CI:6.3-11), and by April 20, it had an increasing trend and reached 12.9% (95%,CI:11.5-14.4). The doubling time has been increasing from about two days and then reached about 97 days on April 20, 2020, which shows the slowdown in the spread rate of the disease. Also, from March 26 to April 2, 2020 the whole Geographical area of Karj city was almost affected by SARS-CoV-2. CONCLUSIONS: The R0 of COVID-19 in Alborz province was substantially high at the beginning of the epidemic, but with preventive measures and public education and GIS based monitoring of the cases,it has been reduced to 1.19 within two months. This reduction highpoints the attainment of preventive measures in place, however we must be ready for any second epidemic waves during the next months.

Prediction of Stress Urinary Incontinence Using the Retrovesical (ß) Angle in Transperineal Ultrasound.

OBJECTIVES: The accurate, rapid diagnosis of stress urinary incontinence (SUI) in women can profoundly improve their sexual and psychosocial life. In this study, the diagnostic power of SUI was assessed by transperineal ultrasound. METHODS: In this hospital-based case-control study, married women who were referred to the gynecologic and ultrasound wards with negative urinalysis and culture results were enrolled by random sampling. Patients with positive cough signs based on the urodynamic testing data were considered cases, whereas control women showed no cough symptoms and were recruited from the same ward. RESULTS: There was a significant difference (P < .001) in bladder neck descent (mean ± SD, 10.89 ± 5.51 versus 7.08 ± 2.60 mm, respectively; P = .0001) and the retrovesical (ß) angle with the Valsalva maneuver (144.22° ± 19.63° versus 111.81° ± 24.47°; P < .001) between the case and control groups. Also, the ß angle without the Valsalva maneuver was higher in the case group (112.35° ± 23.10°) than the control group (120.17° ± 25.16°; P = .001). There was no case of a urinary leak, urethral diverticulitis, a bladder stone or mass, and cystourethrocele in the patients of each group. The results of multivariate logistic regression with a backward method showed that bladder neck descent (odds ratio [OR], 1.24; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.09-1.40), the ß angles with and without the Valsalva maneuver (OR, 1.1; 95% CI, 1.06-1.13; and OR, 1.04; 95% CI, 1.01-1.06) were the predictors of SUI. A ß angle higher than 127° with the Valsalva maneuver, with an area under the curve of 0.89 (95% CI, 0.75-0.96), could very well predict the SUI response. This finding shows that it can be very well used to distinguish between normal and non-normal responses, with 89% sensitivity and 79% specificity. CONCLUSIONS: The ß angle with the Valsalva maneuver could very well predict the SUI response.

Maternal and neonatal outcomes and determinants of iodine deficiency in third trimester of pregnancy in an iodine sufficient area.

BACKGROUND: Mild to moderate iodine deficiency in pregnant women may expose them to the increased risk of the development of goiter and thyroid disorder. There is a relationship between low maternal UIC (Urinary iodine concentration) in pregnancy and diminished placental weight and neonatal head circumference. The current study was an attempt to assess iodine nutritional status, its determinants and relationship with maternal and neonatal outcomes. METHODS: In this population based cross-sectional study, which was conducted from April 2017 to September 2018, information was collected from 884 women of 20-45 years old who referred for periodic pregnancy visits. UIC was measured in random urine samples by applying a manual method which was based on the Sandell-Kolthoff technique. Information related to neonatal and maternal complications was collected from the individuals enrolled in the study through systematic follow-ups of the research team in each hospitals and the referral of trained midwives to the place of delivery and the retrieval of the case files. RESULTS: The results showed that out of 884 participants 838 (94.8%) had a urinary iodine concentration of more than 150 micrograms/litre and 46 (5.2%) showed urinary iodine concentrations less than 150 micrograms/litre. The median (IQR) urinary iodine concentration in the third trimester was 176 (165-196) µg/l. According to the WHO criteria 46 of the participants (5.2%) had insufficient urinary iodine concentrations, 805 (91.06%) had adequate urinary iodine concentrations while 33 (3.73%) showed more than adequate levels. There were no participants with urinary iodine concentrations higher than 500 micrograms/litre. The main influencing factors on maternal iodine deficiency in this study were weight gain during pregnancy (Odds Ratio (OR) =0.88, 95% CI: 0.82-0.95), number of previous pregnancy (OR = 0.59, 95% CI: 0.39-0.89) the interval between the most recent pregnancies (OR = 0.78, 95% CI: 0.64-0.95), whether or not the pregnancy has been Planned (OR = 2.92, 95% CI: 1.29-6.58) and nutritional complement consumption (OR = 3.64, 95% CI: 1.44-9.1). The need for a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission (OR = 4.64, 95% CI: 1.81-11.9) and preterm birth (OR = 3.29, 95% CI: 1.51-7.1) were significantly related with maternal iodine deficiency before delivery. Also there is no significant differences regarding the mean maternal urinary iodine concentration between the normal and different maternal complications groups (p = 0.47). CONCLUSION: Iodine deficiency in pregnant women can be improved by appreciate planning for pregnancy, proper inter-pregnancy time interval (> 12 months to < 5 years), appropriate nutrition during pregnancy. Besides, controlling maternal urinary iodine concentrations is important to prevent neonatal complications such as preterm delivery and NICU admission.

Computerised tomography scan in multi-drug-resistant versus extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis.

PURPOSE: Multi-drug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) is simultaneously resistant to isoniazid and rifampin. Of course, this germ may also be resistant to other anti-tuberculosis drugs. Patients with extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis (XDR-TB) are also resistant to all types of fluoroquinolone and at least one of the three injectable medications: amikacin, clarithromycin, or kanamycin, in addition to isoniazid and rifampin. Therefore, the main objective of the current study was to evaluate and compare the computed tomography (CT) scan findings of MDR-TB and XDR-TB patients. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In this comparative descriptive cross-sectional study 45 consecutive TB patients who referred to Masih Daneshvari Hospital, Tehran, Iran from 2013 to 2019 were enrolled. TB was diagnosed based on sputum smear and sensitive molecular and microbial tests. Patients were divided into two groups (MDR-TB and XDR-TB) based on two types of drug resistance. CT scan findings were compared for cavitary, parenchymal, and non-parenchymal disorders. The early diagnostic values of these factors were also calculated. RESULTS: Findings related to cavitary lesions including the pattern, number, size of the largest cavity, maximum thickness of the cavity, lung involvement, number of lobes involved, and the air-fluid levels in the two patient groups were similar (p > 0.05). Parenchymal findings of the lung also included fewer and more nodules of 10 mm in the MDR-TB and XDR-TB groups, respectively. Tree-in-bud, ground-glass-opacity, bronchiectasis, cicatricial emphysema, and lobar atelectasis were similar in the two patient groups (p > 0.05). Findings outside the parenchymal lung, including mediastinal lymphadenopathy and pericardial effusion, showed no statistically significant difference between the MDR-TB and XDR-TB groups (p > 0.05). Parenchymal calcification was more common in the XDR group than in the MDR group (64.7% and 28.6%, respectively) with a significant difference (p = 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: CT scan findings in patients with XDR-TB are similar to those of patients with MDR-TB for cavitary, parenchymal, and non-parenchymal lung characteristics. However, patients with XDR-TB tend to have more parenchymal calcification and left-sided plural effusion. CT characteristics overlap between XDR-TB and those with MDR-TB. It can be concluded that CT scan features are not sensitive to the diagnosis.

Comparing the effectiveness of functional electrical stimulation via sexual cognitive/behavioral therapy of pelvic floor muscles versus local injection of botulinum toxin on the sexual functioning of patients with primary vaginismus: a randomized clinical trial.

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: Most patients suffering from vaginismus feel sinful, anxious, and incompetent, with reduced self-confidence. This study was aimed at comparing the effectiveness of the physiotherapy of pelvic floor muscles as a standard treatment and local injection of botulinum toxin on the sexual functioning of patients with primary vaginismus. METHODS: In this randomized clinical trial (RCT), the study population included women with primary vaginismus referred to the Sexual Health and Gynecologic Clinics of Imam Khomeini Hospital during 2013-2014. They were diagnosed according to DSM-5 criteria and underwent treatments with botulinum injection (intervention group) and physiotherapy as the current treatment (control group). The participants' primary and secondary outcomes were measured based on successful intercourse and sexual functioning of each group. RESULTS: The results indicated that the overall standard physiotherapy, along with other measurements, such as functional electrical stimulation and desensitization, could effectively improve the patients' Female Sexual Function Index compared with botulinum treatment. At the end of the study, it was found that 20 and 26 patients out of the 30 and 28 patients in the intervention and control groups managed to have successful intercourse respectively (P = 0.014). Also, sexual dysfunction frequencies were seen to be decreased by 26.6% and 50% in the mentioned groups respectively (p = 0.008 and p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Considering the higher efficacy of physiotherapy procedures compared with those of the desensitization and electrical stimulation techniques, this therapeutic method should be considered the first-line treatment of vaginismus (IRCT2016061828486N1).

Evaluating the effect of garlic extract on serum inflammatory markers of peritoneal dialysis patients: a randomized double-blind clinical trial study.

BACKGROUND: Garlic can be considered as a useful natural herb in inhibition of inflammation. The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of garlic extract in lowering inflammatory markers in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients. METHODS: In this parallel-designed double blind randomized clinical trial, 42 PD patients at the Shafa dialysis center, Tehran in 2017 were included. The primary outcome in this study was systemic inflammation which was evaluated by measuring the concentrations of IL-6 and CRP and ESR in serum. RESULTS: Baseline versus after-intervention median (IQR) of IL-6 (pg/ml), CRP (mg/L) and mean ± SD of ESR (mm) in garlic and placebo groups was 2.2 (0.8, 6.4) versus 0.7 (0.6, 1.2) (p <  0.001) and 2.0 (0.8, 2.1) versus 0.6 (0.6, 0.8) (p = 0.002), 13.0 (5.0, 14.0) versus 2.0 (1.0, 9.0) (p <  0.001) and 7.0 (2.0, 10.0) versus 6.0 (3.7, 7.5) (p = 0.547) and 35.4 ± 21.7 versus 50.7 ± 28.5 (p = 0.021) and 46.0 ± 26.0 versus 45.3 ± 22.3 (p = 0.797). Median (IQR) of Percentage Before-After change in CRP was - 71.4%(- 85.7, - 42.9%) and - 20.0%(- 30.0, 114.3%) in garlic and placebo group respectively. The Mann-Whitney U test indicated this difference is statistically significant (p <  0.001). CONCLUSION: The results imply that administrating 400 mg of standardized garlic extract twice a day for 8 weeks resulted in a significant reduction in IL-6, CRP and ESR. Since inflammatory state can be a serious life threatening condition in PD patients, we suggest prescribing this safe and well-tolerated natural substance to attenuate the inflammatory state in these patients. However, assessment of these effects in a larger randomized trial is strongly recommended (IRCTID: IRCT2017072535305N1, 2017-10-16).

Factors related to unwanted pregnancies and abortion in the northern district of the city of Tehran, Iran.

The aim of this study was to investigate the levels and determinants of unwanted pregnancies and therapeutic and elective induced abortions in an Iranian sample of women. This study was conducted from the beginning of 2013 to the end of July 2013, using data from 950 women aged 15-45 years. To evaluate the relationship of independent variables to the number of unwanted pregnancies, a negative binomial regression model was used. A multinomial logistic model was used to investigate the relationship of the history of at least one unwanted pregnancy to therapeutic and elective induced abortion. The prevalence of unwanted pregnancy among participants was 19.2 percent (n = 182). Among those with a history of unwanted pregnancy, eighteen had had at least one induced abortion (14.5 percent of the total abortions reported). Having enough knowledge about the intrauterine device during unprotected intercourse on average was associated with a 57 percent reduction in unwanted pregnancies (mean odds ratio = 0.43, 95 percent Confidence Interval (CI): 0.11-0.93). Given the high rates of complications following unwanted pregnancies and associated maternal health threats, timely identification and training of women at risk, as well as the development of appropriate attitudes regarding reproductive health, may help avoid such pregnancies and their complications.

Investigating the effects of treatment based on single high blood glucose in gestational diabetes screening on maternal and neonatal complications.

PURPOSE: To create a positive step toward achieving an efficient method for gestational diabetes treatment, the present study was carried out to compare the treatment outcomes based on single impaired blood glucose versus regular method in health care centers in Iran. METHODS: This randomized clinical trial was carried out in Tehran/Iran between March 2012 and August 2013. Study sample consisted of mothers whose fasting blood sugar was disturbed or a disturbed blood sugar was seen in OGTT with 75 g glucose load, according to ADA standards. For each outcome, multiple logistic regressions were used to control for the effects of potential confounders. When a confounder was measured on a continuous scale (e.g., age), LOWESS (locally weighted scatter plot smoothing) algorithm was used to determine whether the effect of that variable was linear. We also used the fractional polynomial regression to determine the optimal transformation of continuous covariates. RESULTS: The information of 189 pregnant women was used in this study; 87 in the interventional group (46 %) and 102 in the control group (54 %). Treatment based on the new protocol has very high protective effect (OR 0.25, 95 % CI 0.68-0.88) in terms of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia. This difference was not seen in other outcomes including stillbirth, macrosomic newborn delivery, hypoglycemia, and hypocalcemia. The risk of neonatal hypoglycemia reduced after the 25th week of gestation (OR 0.39, 95 % CI 0.15-0.98). CONCLUSIONS: Although the treatment of mild gestational diabetes could not significantly decrease severe neonatal outcomes, it did significantly reduce the risk of hyperbilirubinemia and its subsequent complications.

Predictive values of different forms of human chorionic gonadotropin in postmolar gestational trophoblastic neoplasia.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to reach a publicly applicable marker, using the increasing or decreasing trend of different forms of ß-human chorionic gonadotropin (ß-hCG) during the first 28 days after molar pregnancy evacuation. METHODS: The present retrospective cohort study investigated all of the documents of patients with hydatidiform mole according to their pathological results during their admission and follow-up in the past 10 years (2003-2013). The type of the relationship was determined using locally weighted scatterplot smoothing (Lowess Smoother) and fractional polynomial regression (Fracpoly), and then a model tailored to data processing was used for drawing the receiver operating characteristic curve. During the investigation of gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN) risk factors, the multiple logistic regression method was used to control the confounding variables. RESULTS: Among individuals with high-risk molar pregnancy, 11 (18%) had GTN, and the prevalence of GTN in individuals with low-risk molar pregnancy was 13.4%. The slope of the ß-hCG line slightly decreases with a rate of change close to zero in individuals with GTN, but the decrease is not statistically significant (P > 0.05). The receiver operating characteristics curve for serum ß-hCG measurement after 21 days of molar pregnancy evacuation showed 83% sensitivity at 89% specificity (area under the curve, 0.9), which indicates that this variable has an optimal performance for discrimination between the GTN cases and patients who had spontaneous disease remission. The mean times of reaching the first negative titer in those without neoplasia and reaching a definitive GTN diagnosis were 8.1 (SD, 2) and 6.2 (SD, 1.5), respectively. The most effective remaining variable in the logistic model was uterine size larger than gestational age (95% confidence interval, 0.99-1.31; odds ratio, 1.14) with a slight increase in the risk and borderline significance (P = 0.07). CONCLUSIONS: The serum ß-hCG measurement after 21 days of molar pregnancy evacuation and slope of the linear regression line of ß-hCG showed to be a good test to discriminate between patients who will get spontaneous disease remission and patients developing GTN.

Statin therapy improves outcomes in infective endocarditis: evidence from a meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Beyond its ability to decrease cholesterol, statin medication has been proved to have a variety of pleiotropic effects, such as anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. Statins are an appealing therapeutic option for individuals with infective endocarditis because of these effects, as the condition is linked to a strong inflammatory response. METHODS: A comprehensive search was done in Medline/PubMed, Cochrane database (CENTRAL), and Google Scholar to identify relevant studies reporting outcomes of interest (rate of mortality, intensive care unit admission, and embolic events) comparing those who are on statin therapy to nonusers were included. We performed a random effect meta-analysis to pool each study's individual results. RESULTS: Three articles were included in the study. The pooled results regarding our primary endpoint showed there was a significant reduction in mortality among statin users in all time points (1-year mortality: OR 0.69, 95% CI 0.61-0.79, I2: 0%; Chi2 = 0.01; p < 0.0001). Meta-analysis for the secondary outcome showed statin users are less frequently admitted to the intensive care unit (OR 0.73, 95% CI 0.59-0.90, I2: 0%; Chi2 = 0.00; p = 0.0004). The rate of mortality was significantly lower for those with a previous history of cerebrovascular disease who were on statin therapy compared to those without cerebrovascular diseases (CVD). CONCLUSIONS: The results of the present study support a significant association with statin therapy as a potential treatment proposed for individuals at risk of infective endocarditis.

Effect of Saffron Versus Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) in Treatment of Depression and Anxiety: A Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

CONTEXT: Saffron, a natural remedy with potential antidepressant and anxiolytic properties, has gained attention as a potential therapeutic option. OBJECTIVE: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the comparative effectiveness of saffron versus selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in treating depression and anxiety. DATA SOURCE: Electronic databases, including PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and the Cochrane database, were searched from inception to April 31, 2023. DATA EXTRACTION: Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing saffron intervention with SSRIs in adults with depression or anxiety were included. DATA ANALYSIS: Random-effects meta-analysis using standardized mean differences (SMDs) and risk ratio (RRs) with their 95% CIs calculated continuous and binary outcomes, respectively. Meta-analysis of 8 studies assessing depression outcomes revealed a nonsignificant difference between saffron and SSRIs in reducing depressive symptoms (SMD = 0.10l 95% CI: -0.09 to 0.29). Four studies reporting anxiety outcomes showed a nonsignificant difference between saffron and SSRIs in reducing anxiety symptoms (SMD = 0.04; 95% CI: -0.22 to 0.29). With regard to safety, participants receiving saffron had fewer adverse events than the SSRI group (risk difference: -0.06; 95% CI: -0.09, -0.04; I2: 0%). CONCLUSION: Saffron could be a potential SSRI alternative to reduce depressive and anxiety symptoms with fewer adverse events. Further research with larger sample sizes and in diverse populations is warranted to validate these findings and explore potential moderators of treatment response. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION: PROSPERO registration no. CRD42023443236.