Machine learning models for predicting preeclampsia: a systematic review.

BACKGROUND: This systematic review provides an overview of machine learning (ML) approaches for predicting preeclampsia. METHOD: This review adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyzes (PRISMA) guidelines. We searched the Cochrane Central Register, PubMed, EMBASE, ProQuest, Scopus, and Google Scholar up to February 2023. Search terms were limited to "preeclampsia" AND "artificial intelligence" OR "machine learning" OR "deep learning." All studies that used ML-based analysis for predicting preeclampsia in pregnant women were considered. Non-English articles and those that are unrelated to the topic were excluded. The PROBAST was used to assess the risk of bias and applicability of each included study. RESULTS: The search strategy yielded 128 citations; after duplicates were removed and title and abstract screening was completed, 18 full-text articles were evaluated for eligibility. Four studies were included in this review. Two studies were at low risk of bias, and two had low to moderate risk. All of the study designs included were retrospective cohort studies. Nine distinct models were chosen as ML models from the four studies. Maternal characteristics, medical history, medication intake, obstetrical history, and laboratory and ultrasound findings obtained during prenatal care visits were candidate predictors to train the ML model. Elastic net, stochastic gradient boosting, extreme gradient boosting, and Random forest were among the best models to predict preeclampsia. All four studies used metrics such as the area under the curve, true positive rate, negative positive rate, accuracy, precision, recall, and F1 score. The AUC of ML models varied from 0.860 to 0.973 in four studies. CONCLUSION: The results of studies yielded high prediction performance of ML models for preeclampsia risk from routine early pregnancy information.

Prevalence of stress urinary incontinence and urge urinary incontinence in multiples sclerosis patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Urinary incontinence (UI), encompassing stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and urge urinary incontinence (UUI), is a prevalent and debilitating condition in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), profoundly impacting their quality of life. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to elucidate the worldwide prevalence rates of SUI and UUI among MS patients. This study was conducted by examining observational studies published between 2000 and 2023. An exhaustive literature search was conducted across databases such as PubMed, MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, ProQuest, and Google Scholar. The Meta-prop method facilitated pooled prevalence estimation of UUI and SUI, while Egger tests assessed publication bias. In total, 27 studies with 15,052 participants were included in the meta-analysis. The findings revealed a high random effect pooled prevalence of UUI at 41.02% (95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 30.57-51.89; I2 = 99%, p < 0.001) and SUI at 25.67% (95% CI: 19.30-32.58%; I2 = 94.9%, P < 0.001). Additionally, the pooled prevalence of mixed urinary incontinence (MUI) was reported at 18.81% (95% CI: 7.55-33.48; I2:95.44%, p < 0.001). The high heterogeneity observed suggests variable prevalence across populations and highlights the intricate nature of UI in MS. These findings underscore the critical need for dedicated supportive, therapeutic, and rehabilitative interventions to manage this common complaint in MS patients effectively.

Sexual function among women with vaginismus: a biopsychosocial approach.

BACKGROUND: Vaginismus is known as a type of sexual pain disorder. Regarding the multifactorial nature of vaginismus, the biopsychosocial model is one of the best models to describe this sexual disorder. AIM: The present research was conducted to study the determinants of sexual function in women with and without vaginismus based on the biopsychosocial model. METHODS: This case-control study was conducted in Iran on 420 women with and without primary vaginismus who met the inclusion criteria. All eligible people were included in the research once their eligibility was verified and their informed permission was acquired; convenience and purposive sampling techniques were used continually. Data collection tools included the demographic and obstetric information form and multiple published scales and questionnaires. Structural equation modeling with LISREL 9.2 software (Scientific Software International) was used to evaluate the determinants of the sexual function of vaginismus. OUTCOMES: Participants rated their determinants of sexual function based on the biopsychosocial model. RESULTS: The mean ages of the case and control groups were 27.67 and 28.44 years, respectively. The direct, indirect, and total effects of the dimensions of sexual health on sexual function and the diagnostic score of vaginismus of the women with vaginismus were significant (P < .001). Furthermore, based on the results, the diagnostic score of vaginismus in women with vaginismus was significantly affected by the direct, indirect, and cumulative impacts of vaginal penetration cognition and fear of sex (P = .016, P = .005). Women with and without vaginismus were able to accept the models' excellent fit. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: This study helps inform health planners and policy makers about the sexual function of women with vaginismus, the factors related to this disorder, and the multidimensional nature of this sexual problem. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS: This study attempted to offer a more comprehensive and complete view of present knowledge via surveying different aspects of sexual health and by means of valid and reliable tools and path analysis. The study's merits include the use of the biopsychosocial model to evaluate sexual function in women with vaginismus, the use of a variety of questionnaires to compare women with and without vaginismus, and the size of the sample. The research was limited by the fact that electronic sampling was conducted because of the COVID-19 epidemic. CONCLUSION: Based on the findings of the present study for the group of women with vaginismus, the direct, indirect, and overall effects of the majority of dimensions of sexual health were significantly correlated with sexual function and vaginismus.

Machine learning-based approach for predicting low birth weight.

BACKGROUND: Low birth weight (LBW) has been linked to infant mortality. Predicting LBW is a valuable preventative tool and predictor of newborn health risks. The current study employed a machine learning model to predict LBW. METHODS: This study implemented predictive LBW models based on the data obtained from the "Iranian Maternal and Neonatal Network (IMaN Net)" from January 2020 to January 2022. Women with singleton pregnancies above the gestational age of 24 weeks were included. Exclusion criteria included multiple pregnancies and fetal anomalies. A predictive model was built using eight statistical learning models (logistic regression, decision tree classification, random forest classification, deep learning feedforward, extreme gradient boost model, light gradient boost model, support vector machine, and permutation feature classification with k-nearest neighbors). Expert opinion and prior observational cohorts were used to select candidate LBW predictors for all models. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC), accuracy, precision, recall, and F1 score were measured to evaluate their diagnostic performance. RESULTS: We found 1280 women with a recorded LBW out of 8853 deliveries, for a frequency of 14.5%. Deep learning (AUROC: 0.86), random forest classification (AUROC: 0.79), and extreme gradient boost classification (AUROC: 0.79) all have higher AUROC and perform better than others. When the other performance parameters of the models mentioned above with higher AUROC were compared, the extreme gradient boost model was the best model to predict LBW with an accuracy of 0.79, precision of 0.87, recall of 0.69, and F1 score of 0.77. According to the feature importance rank, gestational age and prior history of LBW were the top critical predictors. CONCLUSIONS: Although this study found that the extreme gradient boost model performed well in predicting LBW, more research is needed to make a better conclusion on the performance of ML models in predicting LBW.

The incidence and risk factors of meconium amniotic fluid in singleton pregnancies: an experience of a tertiary hospital in Iran.

BACKGROUND: Several common maternal or neonatal risk factors have been linked to meconium amniotic fluid (MAF) development; however, the results are contradictory, depending on the study. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and risk factors of MAF in singleton pregnancies. METHODS: This study is a retrospective cohort that assessed singleton pregnant mothers who gave birth at a tertiary hospital in Bandar Abbas, Iran, between January 1st, 2020, and January 1st, 2022. Mothers were divided into two groups: 1) those diagnosed with meconium amniotic fluid (MAF) and 2) those diagnosed with clear amniotic fluid. Mothers with bloody amniotic fluid were excluded. Demographic factors, obstetrical factors, and maternal comorbidities were extracted from the electronic data of each mother. The Chi-square test was used to compare differences between the groups for categorical variables. Logistic regression models were used to assess meconium amniotic fluid risk factors. RESULTS: Of 8888 singleton deliveries during the study period, 1085 (12.2%) were MAF. MAF was more common in adolescents, mothers with postterm pregnancy, and primiparous mothers, and it was less common in mothers with GDM and overt diabetes. The odds of having MAF in adolescents were three times higher than those in mothers 20-34 years old (aOR: 3.07, 95% CI: 1.87-4.98). Likewise, there were significantly increased odds of MAF in mothers with late-term pregnancy (aOR: 5.12, 95% CI: 2.76-8.94), and mothers with post-term pregnancy (aOR: 7.09, 95% CI: 3.92-9.80). Primiparous women were also more likely than multiparous mothers to have MAF (aOR: 3.41, 95% CI: 2.11-4.99). CONCLUSIONS: Adolescents, primiparous mothers, and mothers with post-term pregnancies had a higher risk of MAF. Maternal comorbidities resulting in early termination of pregnancy can reduce the incidence of MAF.

Evaluating e-health literacy, knowledge, attitude and practice regarding COVID-19 prevention and Self-Protection among Iranian students: a cross-sectional online survey.

BACKGROUND: The coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic requires integrated intervention by both the governments and individuals. University students have a great role in distributing reliable information about disease prevention behaviors. The aim of this study was to identify the Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of COVID-19 Prevention and Self-Protection behaviors in students. METHODS: This cross-sectional online survey was conducted on Iranian university students. All students filled a questionnaire consisting of demographic characteristics, e-Health Literacy Scale (EHEALS) questionnaire and a researcher-made knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) questionnaire. Data was analyzed using the SPSS software. RESULTS: A total of 925 students (69.9% female) participated in this study. The median age of the students was 23 years old. Majority of students (641, 69.3%) were non-medical students. The median and interquartile range (IQR) for knowledge, attitude, practice and P-EHEALS scores in Medical students were 52.00 (27.00), 4.00 (1.00), 28.00 (8.00), and 26.00 (9.00), respectively which were significantly higher than non-medical students, 28.00 (15.00), 3.00 (2.00), 20.00 (8.00), and 26.00 (9.00), respectively (p < 0.001). Practice score was a significant related to knowledge (p < 0.001), attitude (p < 0.001), having a COVID-19 infected family member (p < 0.001), older age (p < 0.001), medical field of education (p = 0.001), higher EHEALS score (p = 0.018), and female gender (p = 0.013). Knowledge, attitude and having a COVID-19 infected person in family were the strongest predictors of preventive practices. CONCLUSIONS: KAP and E-Health literacy of university students, especially non-medical students, should be considered in order to improve COVID-19 preventive behaviors in the society.

Preconception care counselling among women with sickle cell anaemia in the south of Iran: a qualitative study based on social marketing model.

Pregnancy in women afflicted with sickle cell anaemia has certain adverse effects. The present research aimed to promote the quality of preconception care counselling programs. To do this, Hormozgan Province recruited 25 diseased women and five key informants. To acquire the necessary information, in-depth semi-structured interviews were undertaken. Graneheim's directions for guided content analysis were followed while analysing the data. The results were reported in four categories based on the social marketing constructs. Provision of sickle cell services and preconception care counselling were suggested. The participants preferred to be interviewed in comprehensive healthcare centres in their neighbourhood. The high cost of the lab and medical services was raised as an issue. Face-to-face communication together with other care services was suggested. Providing consultation services in nearby places as in the neighbourhood, including local comprehensive care centres, face-to-face interventions, and mass media, can effectively promote preconception care counselling participation.IMPACT STATEMENTWhat is already known on this subject? The high rate of maternal mortality in women afflicted with sickle cell disease in the south of Iran has attracted growing attention to preconception care counselling in these women. It seems that the social marketing model, due to its audience-based nature, is effective in the acceptance of participatory behaviour in preconception care counselling. To the best of the present researchers' knowledge, there is no similar research in this respect in Iran.What do the results of this study add? Participants' discourse analysis has led to the recognition of the social marketing constituent elements in participation in Preconception care counselling. In their accounts, the participants drew attention to 'Provision of sickle cell services' and 'Provision of Preconception care counseling for sickle cell disease' in their accounts. The participants also mentioned personal, organisational, and sociocultural barriers to the rate of participation. The optimal place was determined for the consultation, and the means of communication were also decided on for implementing the program.What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? Policy-makers and programmers can use the present findings to guide the design and implementation of interventional programs to promote participation in Preconception care counselling for women who have sickle cell disease.

Diagnostic accuracy of sFlt1/PlGF ratio as a marker for preeclampsia.

BACKGROUND: Preeclampsia (PE) is a serious complication of pregnancy and one of the main causes of maternal and neonatal mortality and morbidity in the world. Finding a biomarker with high sensitivity and specificity could lead to prediction and early diagnosis of the disease and reduces its complications. In this study, we evaluated diagnostic accuracy of Soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1) to Placental growth factor (PlGF) ratio for diagnosis of PE. METHODS: The cases included 23 mild, 15 severe preeclamptic patients, and 20 normal term pregnant women as control referred to GYN ward of the Persian Gulf Hospital in Bandar Abbas from 2014 to 2016. Levels of sFlt-1 and PlGF were measured. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was applied to calculate diagnostic accuracy of sFlt-1/PlGF ratio. RESULTS: The mean Level of sFlt-1/PlGF in PE patients (91.33 ng/ml) was significantly higher than control women (17.62) (P<0.001). ROC curve analysis showed sFlt-1/PlGF ratio diagnostic accuracy in preeclamptic patients with Area Under Curve (AUC) of 0.90, the best cut-off value of 24.96, sensitivity and specificity of 84.2 and 85.0%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Our data showed sFlt-1/PlGF ratio has higher accuracy for differentiating PE patients from non-PEs in comparison with its power for differentiating severe or early onset forms of the disease.

Transdermal hormone replacement therapy with nanostructured medicines.

OBJECTIVES: Due to hormonal changes during the menopause, women experience a variety of perimenopause and postmenopause symptoms. This review examines the various aspects of nanostructured hormone therapy and its application in the treatments of menopausal symptoms. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Excerpta Medica DataBase, Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online, Web of Science, and Google Scholar were searched basing on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Seven eligible studies out of 51 related papers, which satisfied the initial search criteria, were extracted and carefully reviewed to clarify the role of nanomedicine in maintaining postmenopausal women's health. RESULTS: Review of the seven eligible studies confirmed nanostructured hormone therapy as a safe and effective method for the alleviation of menopausal symptoms. According to the existing studies, nanostructured hormone therapy decreased the mean daily frequency and severity of menopausal symptoms. CONCLUSION: The use of transdermal nanoformulations in hormone therapy can relieve climacteric symptoms and prevent other postmenopausal symptoms.

Managing Monkeypox Virus Infections: A Contemporary Review.

Monkeypox is an infectious and contagious zoonotic disease caused by the Orthopoxvirus species and was first identified in Africa. Recently, this infectious disease has spread widely in many parts of the world. Fever, fatigue, headache, and rash are common symptoms of monkeypox. The presence of lymphadenopathy is another prominent and key symptom of monkeypox, which distinguishes this disease from other diseases and is useful for diagnosing the disease. This disease is transmitted to humans through contact with or eating infected animals as well as objects infected with the virus. One of the ways to diagnose this disease is through PCR testing of lesions and secretions. To prevent the disease, vaccines such as JYNNEOS and ACAM2000 are available, but they are not accessible to all people in the world, and their effectiveness and safety need further investigation. However, preventive measures such as avoiding contact with people infected with the virus and using appropriate personal protective equipment are mandatory. The disease therapy is based on medicines such as brincidofovir, cidofovir, and Vaccinia Immune Globulin Intravenous. The injectable format of tecovirimat was approved recently, in May 2022. Considering the importance of clinical care in this disease, awareness about the side effects of medicines, nutrition, care for conjunctivitis, skin rash, washing and bathing at home, and so on can be useful in controlling and managing the disease.

Coping Strategies with Genito-Pelvic Pain/Penetration Disorder: A Qualitative Study.

Background: Genital/pelvic pain penetration disorder (GPPPD) decreased mental and physical functioning, reduced quality of life, and reduced feelings of inadequacy and worthlessness, all of which impair the ability of women with GPPPD to enjoy sex. This qualitative study was conducted to identify which factors can reduce sexual stress and help Iranian women cope with GPPPD. Methods: This qualitative study was conducted through the participation of 18 women with GPPPD diagnosed by a sexologist and using DSM-IV diagnostic criteria from March to July 2022, Iran. The samples were selected using the purposive sampling method and considering the maximum variation. The semistructured question guide was used as a data collection tool and data collection continued until data saturation was reached. The collected data were analyzed using conventional content analysis approach. Results: Data analysis led to the emergence of three main themes: "problem-focused coping" which included the three categories of received social support, problem self-control, and penetration replacement; "emotion-focused coping" which included three categories: a couple's negative reaction to the problem, attachment disorder, and surrendering the problem; and "treatment-seeking" which consisted of searching and choosing a therapist to solve the problem, ineffective medical approaches, and ineffective nonmedical approaches. Conclusion: Coping strategies in women with GPPPD were classified as "problem-focused coping," "emotion-focused coping," and "treatment-seeking." These findings indicate a need for GPPPD information and education, as well as a need for healthcare professionals to actively inquire about sexual problems and commit to serious treatment efforts. Cultural interventions that promote sexual pleasure can aid in the management of GPPPD.

Machine learning models for predicting pre-eclampsia: a systematic review protocol.

INTRODUCTION: Pre-eclampsia is one of the most serious clinical problems of pregnancy that contribute significantly to maternal mortality worldwide. This systematic review aims to identify and summarise the predictive factors of pre-eclampsia using machine learning models and evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of machine learning models in predicting pre-eclampsia. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: This review adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. This search strategy includes the search for published studies from inception to January 2023. Databases include the Cochrane Central Register, PubMed, EMBASE, ProQuest, Scopus and Google Scholar. Search terms include 'preeclampsia' AND 'artificial intelligence' OR 'machine learning' OR 'deep learning'. All studies that used machine learning-based analysis for predicting pre-eclampsia in pregnant women will be considered. Non-English articles and those that are unrelated to the topic will be excluded. PROBAST (Prediction model Risk Of Bias ASsessment Tool) will be used to assess the risk of bias and the applicability of each included study. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: Ethical approval is not required, as our review will include published and publicly accessible data. Findings from this review will be disseminated via publication in a peer-review journal. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: This review is registered with PROSPERO (ID: CRD42023432415).

Does acupuncture improve sexual dysfunction? A systematic review.

OBJECTIVES: Sexual dysfunction can adversely affect the quality of life and interpersonal relationships. nowadays, a lot of attention is paid to traditional Chinese medicine with better curative effects and less adverse events. Recent studies have implied the promising effect of acupuncture on sexual function. This systematic review evaluate the effectiveness and safety of acupuncture in treating female and male sexual dysfunction. CONTENT: PubMed, Cochrane Central of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), EMBASE, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Chinese Biomedical Literature Database (CBM), Scopus, and Google Scholar were searched up to 2021. No limitation to language and date. The methodological quality of the studies was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT). SUMMARY: Among 160 initially assessed papers, 13 articles were included. The findings showed that acupuncture improve sexual dysfunction in domains of desire, libido, erectile dysfunction and impotency. Most studies did not report any serious side effects from acupuncture, and only three studies reported minor adverse events. OUTLOOK: The available evidence indicate that acupuncture has positive on improvement of sexual dysfunction with no serious side effects. Although acupuncture has gained increasing popularity for the management of sexual dysfunction, high methodological quality evidence regarding its efficacy is lacking.

Component of sexual health services for vaginismus management: A qualitative study.

BACKGROUND: Provision of sexual health services requires gender-sensitive management, facilities, and staff, as well as planning for gender-sensitive caregivers and education. Couples suffering from vaginismus face many types of barriers to accessing sexual health services. This qualitative study was conducted to explain the needs of sexual health services in women with primary vaginismus in Iran. METHODS: This qualitative study was conducted through the participation of 20 participants including service providers, women with vaginismus and their husbands in 2022, Iran. The samples were selected using purposive sampling method and considering the maximum variation. For data collection, in-depth semi-structured individual interviews were conducted and continued until data saturation was reached. The collected data were analyzed in MAXQDA10 software using conventional content analysis approach based on the criteria proposed by Graneheim and Lundman. RESULTS: Data analysis led to the emergence of three main themes: 1) Comprehensive preventive sex education which included the three categories of sex education in the education system, premarital sex education through the health system, and sex education through the media with scientific content; 2) Efficient sexual health clinics which included three categories of therapist's skills, empowerment of sexual therapist, and structural features of sexual health clinics and cultural considerations in establishing sexual health clinics; and 3) Protocol for management and treatment of sexual problems which consisted of sexual education and counseling content, treatment requirements, and sex education approaches. CONCLUSION: Based on the results of the study, comprehensive preventive sex education through the education system and the Ministry of Health can improve the attitudes of adolescents and young people. Moreover, it can take a fundamental step in solving sexual problems by providing the infrastructure necessary for the establishment of efficient sexual health clinics and protocols required to manage and treat such problems.

Maternal and Neonatal Outcomes of Iron Deficiency Anemia: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

INTRODUCTION: Understanding the outcomes of anemia in pregnancy is critical. Since no study has been conducted regarding the maternal and neonatal outcomes of iron-deficiency anemia in Hormozgan province of Iran, this study aims to assess the maternal and neonatal outcomes of iron-deficiency anemia in women who gave birth in Hormozgan province from January 2020 to January 2022. METHODS:  We retrospectively assessed all singleton pregnant women who gave birth at a tertiary hospital in Bandar Abbas, Hormozgan province, Iran, for two years. We divided all women into iron-deficiency anemic and non-iron-deficiency anemic women. Iron-deficiency anemia was defined as hemoglobin less than 10.5 mg/dl at the time of admission without any other hemoglobinopathy, such as sickle cell anemia or thalassemia. Using electronic patient records, data were extracted from the Iranian Maternal and Neonatal Network (IMaN Net), a valid national system. Since the information of birth under 24 weeks of gestation is not recorded in this system, we excluded all deliveries under 24 weeks of gestation. The outcome measures of the study were demographic factors (age, education, residency place, access to prenatal care, smoking), obstetrical factors (parity, labor induction, fetal presentation, mode of delivery), and maternal and neonatal outcomes (the incidence of preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, placenta abruption, postpartum hemorrhage, maternal need for blood transfusion, maternal need for intensive care unit, preterm birth, low birth weight, intrauterine growth retardation, birth asphyxia, stillbirth, and neonatal intensive care admission). Chi-square tests were used to compare differences between iron-deficiency anemic and non-iron-deficiency anemic women. Logistic regression models were used to assess the effect of iron-deficiency anemia on maternal and neonatal outcomes. The result was presented as odds ratio (OR) or adjusted odds ratio (aOR) after adjusting for covariates and a 95% confidence interval (CI).  Results: The incidence of iron-deficiency anemia was 2.97%. Education and residency were among the demographic factors that differed significantly between groups. Iron-deficiency anemia was more frequent in those with higher education and women who lived in rural areas. In terms of obstetrical factors, method of delivery was the only significantly different factor between groups. Iron-deficiency anemic mothers had substantially more instrumental deliveries than non-iron-deficiency anemic mothers (4.3% vs. 0.8%), while the incidence of cesarean section was lower. Based on logistic regression in terms of maternal and neonatal outcomes, iron-deficiency anemic women had a substantially higher risk of the need for maternal blood transfusion (aOR: 6.54, 95%CI: 4.72-8.15), postpartum hemorrhage (aOR: 1.54, 95%CI: 0.71-2.11), preterm birth (aOR: 0.98, 95%CI: 0.45-1.13), low birth weight (aOR: 1.04, 95%CI: 0.78-2.01), intrauterine growth retardation (aOR: 1.30, 95%CI: 0.99-2.10), and neonatal intensive care admission (aOR: 1.06, 95%CI: p.52-2.72), after adjusting for educational level, residency place, and method of delivery. CONCLUSIONS: Despite the higher incidence of postpartum hemorrhage and maternal blood transfusion, we found no increase in maternal intensive care unit admission risk. Regarding neonatal outcomes, iron-deficiency anemia was linked to preterm birth, low birth weight, intrauterine growth retardation, and neonatal intensive care admission.

Impact of the Social Marketing-Based Intervention on Preconception Healthy Behaviors of Women With Sickle Cell Disease.

INTRODUCTION: A suggested method to improve the outcomes of pregnancy with sickle cell disease (SCD) is to engage more women at reproductive age in preconception healthy behavior (PCHB). Social marketing can be a suitable strategy to achieve this goal. We aimed to assess the impact of the social marketing-based intervention on women's engagement in PCHB. METHODS: A quasi-experimental study was conducted in Bandar Abbas and Minab (the two largest cities of Hormozgan province in Iran with a high prevalence of SCD) from 2021 to 2022. A social marketing-based intervention with the main components (participation in PCHB as a "product," social media and traditional promotional channels as a "promotion," selecting healthcare centers as a "place" for implementing the intervention, and free access to medical experts and speciality as a "price") was designed based on formative research. The sample size was estimated at 140 participants in each intervention and control group. The study's main outcome was the level of engagement in PCHB, which was assessed according to the health belief model (HBM). RESULTS: We compared the PCHB scores of both groups. Employing healthy behavior was more dominant in the intervention group. Awareness, perceived severity, perceived susceptibility, perceived benefits, and self-efficacy increased in both groups following intervention, while perceived barriers decreased. An analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was performed to control and moderate the effect of scores in the pretest. As observed between the adjusted averages, awareness, perceived susceptibility, perceived severity, perceived benefits, perceived barriers, self-efficacy, and engagement in the PCHB were significantly different between the control and intervention groups after the intervention. A multivariate linear regression analysis showed that awareness, perceived susceptibility, and self-efficacy were strong predictors of PCHB. CONCLUSIONS: Social marketing-based intervention successfully increased PCHB among women of reproductive age with SCD.

Manifestation of Spontaneous Rupture of the Urinary Bladder in Pregnancy: A Systematic Review of the Literature.

Spontaneous rupture of the urinary bladder (SRUB) during pregnancy is a potentially fatal event that necessitates immediate surgery. The aim of this systematic review is to determine the symptoms, causes, associated factors, and prognosis of SRUB in pregnancy. We searched the literature from inception until December 2022 using the Cochrane Central Register, PubMed, EMBASE, ProQuest, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Articles not in English and those unrelated to the topic were excluded. The JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist for case reports was employed for the risk of bias assessment. The search strategy yielded 312 citations; 29 full-text articles were evaluated for eligibility after screening. Five case reports were included in this review. The age range of the cases was 27-39 years. Four cases were in their second trimester of pregnancy, and one was in her third. Two cases had undergone previous cesarean sections, and one had an appendectomy and salpingectomy due to an ectopic pregnancy. One case reported a history of alcohol and drug abuse. The most common symptoms were abdominal pain, abdominal distension, oliguria, voiding difficulty, hematuria, fever, and vomiting. The diagnosis of SRUB was primarily made via emergency laparotomy due to the patients' critical conditions. Beyond its diagnostic role, laparotomy was also the treatment method in all cases. Tear repair, antibiotic therapy, and urinary catheterization were all integral parts of the treatment. Four cases resulted in an uneventful pregnancy and a healthy, full-term baby. In one case, a hysterectomy was performed due to a combined uterus and bladder rupture. SRUB often presents with non-specific symptoms, leading to a delayed diagnosis. A high index of suspicion is essential when a pregnant woman exhibits urinary symptoms and severe abdominal pain, especially in those with a history of previous surgery. Early detection and treatment of SRUB are critical for an uneventful recovery.

Factors predicting age at menopause among Iranian women in the Bandare-Kong cohort study (a cross-sectional survey of PERSIAN cohort study).

BACKGROUND: Menopause is a natural period in women's life and can be affected by several factors. The aim of this study was to identify the associated factors for age of natural menopause and among women with early and premature menopause based on a cohort study in Iran. METHODS: This population-based study was conducted on 894 post menopause women between 35 and 70 years old who participated in the Bandare-Kong Non-Communicable Diseases (BKNCD) Cohort Study, a part of Prospective Epidemiological Research Studies in Iran (PERSIAN) from March 2016 to February 2019. All women completed a standard self-reported questionnaire. Data were analyzed using chi-square test, independent t test, and ANOVA as well as a multivariable linear regression model. RESULTS: The mean age at natural menopause was 48.31 ± 6.34 years. After adjusting other variables, gravida, history of cardiac disease, socioeconomic status and residence status were predictive of age at menopause (P < 0.001). Among the premature menopause group, the mean age at menopause was significantly higher among women with diabetes compared to women without diabetes group (35.68 ± 2.92 vs. 33.82 ± 3.06; P = 0.043), while the mean age at menopause was significantly lower in women with infertility compared to women without infertility (29.13 ± 5.22 vs. 34.84 ± 2.826; P = 0.048). CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that the predictors of menopausal age differed in women with premature menopause compared to overall menopause age. Prospective studies are needed to evaluation the effects of these factors on menopausal age.

The Effectiveness of Herbal Medicines on Cyclic Mastalgia: A Systematic Review on Meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: Different drugs are used to treat mastalgia, such as danazol and bromocriptine, and both are associated with side effects, due to which most of women and healthcare providers are interested in herbal medicines. Therefore we aim to study the effectiveness of phytoestrogens on the severity of cyclic mastalgia. METHODS: To carry out the present study, English electronic resources such as the Cochrane Library, ISI Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed were used systematically and with no time limitation up to February 10, 2020. RESULTS: In total, 20 studies were included in the present meta-analysis. The results of the meta-analysis showed that herbal medicines versus the control group (standard mean difference [SMD] = - 0.585; 95% confidence interval [CI]: - 0.728-- 0.44; heterogeneity; p = 0.02; I2 = 42%), herbal medicines versus the B group (SMD = - 0.59; 95%CI: - 0.75-- 0.44; heterogeneity; p = 0.03; I2 = 42%), and its subgroups, such as phytoestrogen (SMD = - 0.691; 95%CI: - 0.82-- 0.55; heterogeneity; p = 0.669; I2 = 0%), Vitex-agnus-castus (SMD = - 0.642; 95%CI: - 0.84-- 0.44; p < 0.001; p = 203; I2 = 32%), flaxseed (SMD = - 0.63; 95%CI: - 0.901-- 0.367; p = 0.871; I2 = 0%), and evening primrose (SMD= - 0.485; 95%CI:- 0.84-- 0.12; p = 0.008; heterogeneity; p = 0.06; I2 = 56%] may have effective and helpful effects on improving cyclic breast mastalgia. Also, chamomile, isoflavone, cinnamon, and nigella sativa significantly reduced mastalgia symptoms. CONCLUSION: Herbal medicines and their subgroups may have effective and helpful effects on improving cyclic breast mastalgia. The findings of our meta-analysis must be done cautiously because low methodological quality in some evaluated studies of this systematic review.

OBJETIVO: Diferentes drogas são utilizadas para tratar a mastalgia, como danazol e bromocriptina, e ambas estão associadas a efeitos colaterais, devido aos quais a maioria das mulheres e dos profissionais de saúde está interessada em medicamentos fitoterápicos. Portanto, nosso objetivo no presente estudo é estudar a eficácia dos fitoestrogênios na gravidade da mastalgia cíclica. MéTODOS: Para a realização do presente estudo, foram utilizados recursos eletrônicos em inglês como a Cochrane Library, ISI Web of Science, Scopus e PubMed, de forma sistemática e sem limitação de tempo até 10 de fevereiro de 2020. RESULTADOS: No total, 20 estudos foram incluídos na presente metanálise. Os resultados da metanálise mostraram que fitoterápicos versus grupo controle (SMD = - 0,585; intervalo de confiança (IC) 95%: - 0,728­- 0,44; heterogeneidade; p = 0,02; I2 = 42%), fitoterápicos versus grupo B (SMD = - 0,59; IC95%: - 0,75­- 0,44; heterogeneidade; p = 0,03; I2 = 42%) e seus subgrupos, como fitoestrogênios (SMD = - 0,691; IC95%: - 0,82­- 0,55; heterogeneidade; p = 0,669; I2 = 0%), Vitex-agnus-castus (SMD = - 0,642; IC95%: - 0,84­- 0,44; p < 0,001; p = 203; I2 = 32%), linhaça (SMD = - 0,63; IC95%: - 0,901­- 0,367; p = 0,871; I2 = 0%) e prímula (SMD = - 0,485; IC95%: - 0,84­- 0,12; p = 0,008; heterogeneidade; p = 0,06; I2 = 56%) podem ter efeitos eficazes e úteis na melhora da mastalgia cíclica da mama. Além disso, camomila, isoflavona, canela e Nigella sativa reduziram significativamente a mastalgia. CONCLUSãO: Os medicamentos fitoterápicos e seus subgrupos podem ter efeitos eficazes e úteis na melhora da mastalgia mamária cíclica. Os achados do presente estudo devem ser explantados com atenção devido ao pequeno número de estudos existentes sobre o tema, a maioria dos quais com um tamanho de amostra pequeno.

Spontaneous bladder rupture and associated factors during pregnancy:a systematic review and metanalysis protocol.

INTRODUCTION: Spontaneous bladder rupture during pregnancy is a potentially life-threatening event requiring immediate surgery to reduce morbidity and mortality. This systematic review aims to identify associated factors of spontaneous bladder rupture during pregnancy and propose a diagnostic and therapeutic algorithm. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: To improve the reporting of this protocol, the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) 2020 statement was used. The primary objective is to identify and summarise the associated factors with spontaneous bladder rupture during pregnancy. The secondary outcome was to determine the diagnostic and treatment approach. From inception to June 2022, a systematic search of the following electronic databases of peer-reviewed journal articles and online search records will be conducted: the Cochrane Central Register, PubMed, Medline (Via PubMed), Embase (Via Ovid), ProQuest, Scopus, WOS and search engine Google Scholar. All types of studies focusing on spontaneous bladder rupture during pregnancy will be included. Two authors will review the studies based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Three authors will independently extract data using a researcher-created checklist. In the event of a disagreement, an external reviewer will be used. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale checklist will be used by two authors to assess the quality of the studies independently. Data analysis will be carried out using STATA V.16. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: Ethical approval is not required, as our review will include published and publicly accessible data. Findings from this review will be disseminated via publication in a peer-review journal. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: The protocol for this review was submitted at PROSPERO on 20 March 2022 with ID number CRD42022319511.