Family Medicine
Instant noodle burns common in pediatric scald injuries: Study highlights need for prevention efforts
21 Feb, 2023 | 11:50h | UTCSummary: The study examined pediatric scald burns at the University of Chicago Burn Center between 2010 and 2020 and found that 31% of burns were attributed to instant noodles. Children with instant noodle burns were typically older, more likely to be Black/African American, and from lower socio-economic backgrounds. They were also more likely to be unsupervised at the time of the injury. While instant noodle burns were smaller and required less operative intervention than other scald burns, some still required hospitalization and were associated with complications. The study highlights the need for targeted burn prevention efforts to reduce the incidence of these common but serious injuries.
Article: Pediatric instant noodle burns: A ten-year single center retrospective study – Burns (link to abstract – $ for full-text)
Commentary: Why Instant Noodles Are a Danger to Your Kids – HealthDay
Review | Diagnosis and management of patients with polyneuropathy
21 Feb, 2023 | 11:40h | UTCDiagnosis and management of patients with polyneuropathy – Canadian Medical Association Journal
Study finds low rates of antipsychotic medication discontinuation in older adults following infection-related hospitalization
20 Feb, 2023 | 12:25h | UTCSummary: The study aimed to investigate discontinuation rates of antipsychotic medications (APMs) used to treat delirium due to acute hospitalization and infection in older adults. The cohort study involved 5,835 patients in the US, who were aged 65 years or older, without prior psychiatric disorders and had newly initiated an APM prescription within 30 days of an infection-related hospitalization. The study found that only 11% of new atypical APM users and 52% of new haloperidol users discontinued the medication by 30 days after initiation. The discontinuation of haloperidol and atypical APM was less likely to occur in patients with dementia and prolonged hospitalization. The findings suggest that APM discontinuation rates following infection-related hospitalization are low, especially for atypical APM, and call for effective interventions to proactively discontinue APMs when they are no longer indicated.
RCT | Effect of alternate day fasting combined with aerobic exercise on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
20 Feb, 2023 | 12:27h | UTCSummary: The article reports on a randomized trial that compared the effects of alternate-day fasting (ADF) combined with exercise, fasting alone, or exercise alone in adults with obesity and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). After three months, the combination of ADF and exercise significantly reduced intrahepatic triglyceride content, body weight, fat mass, waist circumference, and alanine transaminase levels compared to the control group. The intervention seems promising for patients with fatty liver disease who want to improve their health without using medications.
Article: Effect of alternate day fasting combined with aerobic exercise on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A randomized controlled trial – Cell Metabolism (link to abstract – $ for full-text)
News Release: Alternate-day fasting could be a good option for patients with fatty liver disease – University of Illinois Chicago
M-A | Consumption of whole vs. refined grains and risk of cardiovascular disease and all-cause mortality
20 Feb, 2023 | 12:23h | UTCSummary: This systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies found that consuming whole grains was associated with a reduced risk of coronary heart disease, cardiovascular disease, and all-cause mortality, while consuming refined grains had no significant influence on these outcomes. Residual confounding can’t be excluded and the association found does not necessarily imply causation.
M-A | Soluble fiber supplementation and serum lipid profile
20 Feb, 2023 | 12:18h | UTCSummary: The article presents the results of a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that evaluated the effect of soluble fiber supplementation on blood lipid parameters in adults. The review included 181 RCTs with 220 treatment arms and 14,505 participants. The meta-analysis found that soluble fiber supplementation significantly reduced LDL cholesterol, total cholesterol, triglycerides, and apolipoprotein B concentrations. The article suggests that increasing fiber intake using soluble fiber supplementation could be an effective intervention in the prevention and management of dyslipidemia, and consequently may contribute to the risk reduction of cardiovascular diseases. However, the article also notes that because of the high between-study heterogeneity and publication bias, the findings should be interpreted cautiously.
RCT | Evaluation of BNT162b2 Covid-19 vaccine in children younger than 5 years of age
17 Feb, 2023 | 13:27h | UTCSummary: The study was a combined phase 2-3 clinical trial that aimed to determine whether the BNT162b2 vaccine was safe, could elicit an immune response and was effective in preventing COVID-19 in healthy children. The trial was conducted on children aged 6 months to 11 years, with the findings presented for the 6 months to 4 years age group. The results indicated that the vaccine was safe, immunogenic, and effective in reducing the risk of symptomatic COVID-19 by 73.2% in children aged 6 months to 4 years. The vaccine was well-tolerated, and the side effects were mainly mild to moderate. The incidence of fever was similar among those who received the vaccine or a placebo.*
Article: Evaluation of BNT162b2 Covid-19 Vaccine in Children Younger than 5 Years of Age – New England Journal of Medicine (link to abstract – $ for full-text)
*Note: This summary was created through the collaboration of a medical editor and ChatGPT.
M-A | Aspirin with or without statin in individuals without atherosclerotic CVD across risk categories
17 Feb, 2023 | 13:22h | UTCSummary: This meta-analysis examined the effects of aspirin in adults without atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), stratified by statin use across different ASCVD risks. The analysis found that aspirin reduced myocardial infarction but increased major bleeding, and was not associated with total or cardiovascular survival benefits. In adults without ASCVD, concomitant statin appeared to significantly reduce absolute risk reduction for MI associated with aspirin without influencing bleeding risk. The study highlights that the risk-benefit equilibrium may be tilted towards more harm for primary prevention, and that the expected absolute risk of major bleeding exceeds absolute MI benefits by aspirin for every level of ASCVD risk. The findings have implications for the use of aspirin in those already on statin therapy for primary ASCVD prevention.*
*Note: This summary was created through the collaboration of a medical editor and ChatGPT.
M-A | Efficacy and safety of drugs for gastroparesis
17 Feb, 2023 | 13:05h | UTCCommentaries:
Review finds only two efficacious medications to treat gastroparesis – ACP Gastroenterology
Two drug classes appear effective for gastroparesis treatment – MDedge
Commentary from the author on Twitter (thread – click for more)
Our latest (and definitely last!) paper of 2022 is now published online in @AGA_Gastro and is a network meta-analysis of drugs in gastroparesis:https://t.co/kpz8nH6ekT
— Alexander Ford (@alex_ford12399) December 26, 2022
SR | Antipsychotic exposure is an independent risk factor for breast cancer
17 Feb, 2023 | 12:41h | UTC
Rare, overlooked, or underappreciated causes of recurrent abdominal pain: a primer for gastroenterologists
16 Feb, 2023 | 15:12h | UTC
Commentary from the author on Twitter
Our paper in @AGA_CGH looking at Rare, Overlooked, or Underappreciated Causes of Recurrent Abdominal Pain: A Primer for Gastroenterologists
Thanks to @umfoodoc @dbrennerGIMD and my mentor #DrBrandt @MonteGastro for including me in this important work https://t.co/91MKLqvgLy pic.twitter.com/HcHiRehhNI
— Marc Fenster (@Marcfenster1) September 28, 2022
M-A | Blood pressure lowering effects of B-blockers as add-on or combination therapy
16 Feb, 2023 | 15:10h | UTC
RCT | Orlistat and a low-carb diet show promising results for the treatment of Metabolic-Associated Fatty Liver Disease
16 Feb, 2023 | 15:07h | UTCSummary: The study aimed to compare the effects of orlistat or a high-protein/lower-carbohydrate diet with a control diet in Asian patients with obesity and metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) over 24 weeks. The primary endpoint was the relative change in liver fat content (LFC) assessed by MRI-PDFF. A total of 118 patients were randomly assigned to the control group, orlistat group, or experimental diet group. All three groups demonstrated improvement in liver steatosis at week 24, with the orlistat group and the experimental diet group both showing a significant decrease in LFC compared to the control group.*
*Note: This summary was created through the collaboration of a medical editor and ChatGPT.
10-year follow-up on preterm prelabor rupture of membranes: induced labor vs. expectant management childhood outcomes
16 Feb, 2023 | 15:05h | UTCSummary: This study aimed to compare the long-term outcomes of children born after singleton pregnancies complicated by preterm prelabor rupture of membranes and managed by induction of labor vs. expectant management in RCTs undergone between 2007 and 2011. The study assessed the children’s cognition, motor function, and behavior as the primary outcomes. It found that expectant management did not improve long-term outcomes compared to induction of labor for children born after pregnancies with preterm prelabor (between 34 0/7 and 36 6/7 weeks of pregnancy) rupture of membranes. The confidence in the results of this follow-up study is diminished because only 35% of the children who participated in the original trials participated in the follow-up study.
*Note: This summary was created through the collaboration of a medical editor and ChatGPT.
Pediatric edible cannabis exposures and acute toxicity in the US: 2017–2021
16 Feb, 2023 | 15:00h | UTCPediatric Edible Cannabis Exposures and Acute Toxicity: 2017–2021 – Pediatrics
Commentaries:
The Number of American Kids Eating Cannabis Has Surged Dramatically – Science Alert
2017 to 2021 Saw Increase in Pediatric Edible Cannabis Exposure – HealthDay
Guideline Synopsis | The use of opioids in the management of chronic pain
15 Feb, 2023 | 16:16h | UTCSummary: The VA/DoD guideline for chronic pain management recommends non-opioid treatments, such as cognitive-behavioral and physical therapy, with opioid use reserved for specific circumstances. Mental health evaluations are emphasized, along with regular treatment reassessments. Opioid use is not recommended due to small benefits outweighed by risks, but if used, buprenorphine is suggested due to a lower risk profile. Screening for mood disorders and traumatic brain injury is also advised, although evidence for risk mitigation strategies is lacking.*
Commentary: Initiation of Opioids Not Recommended for Chronic Pain – HealthDay
*Note: This summary was created through the collaboration of a medical editor and ChatGPT.
USPSTF reaffirms recommendation against serologic screening for genital herpes infection
15 Feb, 2023 | 16:17h | UTCSummary: The US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends against routine screening for genital herpes infection in asymptomatic adolescents, adults, and pregnant women, as the potential harms of such screening outweigh the benefits. This recommendation is based on a systematic evaluation of the available evidence, and the USPSTF has moderate certainty in its conclusion.*
Evidence Report: Serologic Screening for Genital Herpes: Updated Evidence Report and Systematic Review for the US Preventive Services Task Force – JAMA
Editorials:
Reducing HSV-2 Morbidity and MortalityRoutine Serologic Screening Still Not the Best Answer – JAMA
Reaffirmed USPSTF Recommendation Against Serologic Screening for Genital Herpes: Empowering Clinicians and Reducing Potential Harm – JAMA Dermatology (free for a limited period)
Author Interview: Serologic Screening for Genital Herpes Infection – JAMA
JAMA Patient Page: Screening for Genital Herpes
*Note: This summary was created through the collaboration of a medical editor and ChatGPT.
AHA Statement | Optimizing prepregnancy cardiovascular health improves outcomes for pregnant women, offspring
15 Feb, 2023 | 16:14h | UTCSummary: This statement highlights the need to optimize cardiovascular health before pregnancy to reduce the risk for adverse pregnancy outcomes and cardiovascular disease in mothers and children. It emphasizes the role of clinicians in promoting early cardiovascular health, clinical trials to investigate interventions, and the use of a life course framework to monitor health. By targeting cardiovascular health before pregnancy, interventions can improve health outcomes across generations.*
News Release: Does risk for heart disease start before birth? – American Heart Association
*Note: This summary was created through the collaboration of a medical editor and ChatGPT.
Cohort Study | Associations between types and sources of dietary carbohydrates and cardiovascular disease risk
15 Feb, 2023 | 16:13h | UTCSummary: This study found that the associations between carbohydrate intake and cardiovascular disease risk depend on the type and source of carbohydrates consumed, with free sugar intake being associated with higher risk of total cardiovascular disease and stroke. Fiber intake was associated with lower risk, and replacing refined grain starch and free sugars with wholegrain starch and non-free sugars may be protective for cardiovascular disease. Free sugar intake was also associated with higher triglycerides and lipoprotein subclasses. As with all observational studies, this study cannot establish causality, but rather suggests associations between carbohydrate intake and cardiovascular disease risk, and the importance of considering the quality of carbohydrates consumed for cardiovascular health.*
News Release: Free sugars associated with higher risk of cardiovascular disease – BioMed Central
*Note: This summary was created through the collaboration of a medical editor and ChatGPT.
RCT | Effect of low-concentration atropine eyedrops vs. placebo on myopia incidence in children
15 Feb, 2023 | 16:09h | UTCSummary: The study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of low-concentration atropine eyedrops at 0.05% and 0.01% concentration for delaying the onset of myopia in children. The randomized, placebo-controlled, double-masked trial enrolled 474 nonmyopic children aged 4 through 9 years. Participants were assigned to 0.05% atropine, 0.01% atropine, and placebo groups and had eyedrops applied once nightly in both eyes over 2 years. The results showed that the 0.05% atropine eyedrops resulted in a significantly lower incidence of myopia and a lower percentage of participants with fast myopic shift at 2 years compared with placebo. However, there was no significant difference between 0.01% atropine and placebo. More research is necessary to replicate the results, determine whether this approach delays or prevents myopia, and evaluate its long-term safety.*
Article: Effect of Low-Concentration Atropine Eyedrops vs Placebo on Myopia Incidence in Children: The LAMP2 Randomized Clinical Trial – JAMA (free for a limited period)
Editorial: Delaying the Onset of Nearsightedness – JAMA (free for a limited period)
Commentaries:
Atropine Eyedrops Associated With Lower Incidence of Myopia, Myopic Shift – AJMC
Low-Concentration Atropine Eyedrops Linked to Lower Myopia Incidence in Children – HCP Live
0.05 Percent Atropine Eye Drops Result in Lower Incidence of Myopia – HealthDay
Commentary on Twitter
Among children aged 4 to 9 years without #myopia, nightly use of 0.05% atropine eyedrops compared with placebo resulted in a significantly lower incidence of myopia and lower percentage of participants with fast myopic shift at 2 years. https://t.co/XUjnPVGVad pic.twitter.com/4iZa4Iek76
— JAMA (@JAMA_current) February 14, 2023
*Note: This summary was created through the collaboration of a medical editor and ChatGPT.
RCT | Antimicrobial therapy for 7 days is inferior to treatment for 14 days in men with febrile urinary tract infection
15 Feb, 2023 | 16:11h | UTCSummary: This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of 7-day versus 14-day antibiotic treatment for febrile urinary tract infections in men. The multicenter randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled non-inferiority trial enrolled 282 men from 27 centers in France. The primary endpoint was treatment success, defined as a negative urine culture, the absence of fever, and no subsequent antibiotic treatment between the end of treatment and 6 weeks after day 1. The results showed that the 14-day treatment was superior to the 7-day treatment, with a treatment success rate of 77.6% versus 55.7%, respectively. Adverse events were similar in both groups, and rectal carriage of resistant Enterobacterales did not differ. Therefore, the study concludes that treatment with ofloxacin for 7 days is inferior to 14 days for febrile UTI in men and should not be recommended.*
Article: Antimicrobial for 7 or 14 days for febrile urinary tract infection in men: a multicenter noninferiority double blind placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial – Clinical Infectious Diseases (link to abstract – $ for full-text)
*Note: This summary was created through the collaboration of a medical editor and ChatGPT.
SR | The effect of parental leave on parents’ mental health
15 Feb, 2023 | 15:44h | UTCInvited Commentary: Paid parental leave and mental health: the importance of equitable policy design – The Lancet Public Health
News Release: Generous parental leave schemes protect against poorer mental health – Stockholm University / News Medical
SR | Predisposing and precipitating factors associated with delirium
15 Feb, 2023 | 15:38h | UTC
Consensus Paper | ED management of patients with alcohol intoxication, alcohol withdrawal, and alcohol use disorder
14 Feb, 2023 | 11:05h | UTC
Diagnostic Study | Level of attention to motherese speech as an early marker of autism spectrum disorder
14 Feb, 2023 | 11:04h | UTCSummary: A study was conducted to determine if levels of attention to motherese speech can be used as a diagnostic marker for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and if they are associated with social and language abilities. The study involved 653 toddlers aged 12 to 48 months and used gaze-contingent eye tracking to measure attention to motherese speech. The results showed that toddlers without ASD had high levels of fixation on motherese speech, while those with ASD had significantly reduced levels. If a toddler fixated on motherese speech at or below 30%, the probability of them being accurately diagnosed with ASD was 94%, and it was also associated with reduced social and language abilities. The findings suggest that attention to motherese speech may be a diagnostic and prognostic marker of ASD.
(By ChatGPT, reviewed and edited)
Commentaries:
Toddlers’ Attention to ‘Motherese’ Could Give Clues to Autism – HealthDay