ICU-Acquired Superinfections Before And During The COVID-19 Pandemic: Similarities And Differences.

Background: During the COVID-19 pandemic, intensive care units (ICUs) experienced a surge in patients with viral pneumonia, often leading to acute respiratory failure. A global rise in ICU superinfections was observed; however, it remains unclear whether the extensive use of broad-spectrum antibiotics, corticosteroids, and immunosuppressants contributed to this rise.

Objectives: We aim to identify clinical factors associated with these superinfections while analyzing epidemiologic patterns of superinfections in two different periods.

The "HAT-TRICK' technique: A Modification of soft tissue grafting using volume stable collagen matrix and cross-linked hyaluronic acid. Part B: Clinical applications in the esthetic zone.

Soft tissue deficiency around dental implants can negatively impact outcomes in terms of esthetics and long-term stability. While autogenous connective tissue grafting is still considered the gold standard treatment, alternative approaches are being proposed primarily to enhance patient comfort and avoid invasive procedures such as two-sites surgeries using xenogeneic collagen matrices. Despite the advantages, the quality of the regenerated tissues remains unpredictable and, in many cases, questionable, highlighting the need for alternative and innovative approaches.

Overweight, obesity, and cardiovascular disease in heterozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia: the EAS FH Studies Collaboration registry.

Background And Aims: Overweight and obesity are modifiable risk factors for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) in the general population, but their prevalence in individuals with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia (HeFH) and whether they confer additional risk of ASCVD independent of LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) remains unclear.

Methods: Cross-sectional analysis was conducted in 35 540 patients with HeFH across 50 countries, in the EAS FH Studies Collaboration registry. Prevalence of World Health Organization-defined body mass index categories was investigated in adults (n = 29 265) and children/adolescents (n = 6275); and their association with prevalent ASCVD.

Enhanced Recovery After Surgery for patients undergoing radical cystectomy: Surgeons' perspectives and recommendations ten years after its implementation.

Background And Objectives: Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) guidelines for Radical Cystectomy (RC) were published over ten years ago. Aim of this systematic review is to update ERAS recommendations for patients undergoing RC and to give an expert opinion on the relevance of each single ERAS item.

Methods: A systematic review was performed to identify the impact of each single ERAS item on RC outcomes.

Barriers to medication administration error reporting in a tertiary hospital in Lebanon.

Objective: The aim of this study is to identify the key barriers that prevent medication administration errors (MAEs) from being reported by nurses in Lebanese hospitals.

Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted at Hotel-Dieu de France Hospital using a self-administered questionnaire. A total of 275 responses were recorded and analysed using the IBM SPSS software V.

Self-Reported Delayed Adverse Events and Flare Following COVID-19 Vaccination Among Patients With Autoimmune Rheumatic Disease (AIRD) in Malaysia: Results From the COVAD-2 Study.

Objectives: To determine the prevalence of self-reported delayed adverse events (DAEs), major AEs, and flares following COVID-19 vaccinations among patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases (AIRDs) in Malaysia.

Methodology: An electronically validated survey from the COVID-19 vaccination in autoimmune diseases (COVAD) study group was distributed in July 2021 to patients with autoimmune diseases and healthy controls (HCs). The survey collected data on DAEs (any AE that persisted or occurred after 7 days of vaccination), any early or delayed major adverse events (MAEs), and flares following COVID-19 vaccination.

Comparison of Ceramic Bonding to Cobalt-Chromium, Zirconia and Nickel-Chromium Alloys Fabricated Using of Various Techniques.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the characteristics of the ceramic bonding to cobalt-chromium (Co-Cr) alloys fabricated by casting, milling, and additive manufacturing, compared with zirconia and nickel-chromium. One hundred specimens (N = 100), prepared with the dimensions of 25 × 3 × 0.5 mm, were assigned to five groups (n = 20): presintered milled Co-Cr (Group M), additively manufactured Co-Cr (Group SLM), cast Co-Cr (Group C), presintered zirconia (Group Zi), and cast Ni-Cr (Group Ni).

Kinematic limitations during stair ascent and descent in patients with adult spinal deformity.

Background: Adults with spinal deformity (ASD) are known to have spinal malalignment, which can impact their quality of life and their autonomy in daily life activities. Among these tasks, ascending and descending stairs is a common activity of daily life that might be affected.

Research Question: What are the main kinematic alterations in ASD during stair ascent and descent?

Methods: 112 primary ASD patients and 34 controls filled HRQoL questionnaires and underwent biplanar X-from which spino-pelvic radiographic parameters were calculated.

Effect of Apical Preparation Size and Preparation Taper on Smear Layer Removal Using Two Different Irrigation Needles: A Scanning Electron Microscopy Study.

Objectives:  The aim of this study was to determine the effect of apical preparation size and preparation taper on smear layer removal using a metallic needle and a new polymer needle (IrriFlex, Produits Dentaires SA "PD," Vevey, Switzerland).

Materials And Methods:  One hundred and eight single-rooted teeth with one canal were randomly divided into four groups according to the preparation and irrigation needle used: G1-30, 0.04 and IrriFlex ( = 25); G2-25, 0.

Immunotherapy in thymic epithelial tumors: an attractive dilemma.

Thymomas and thymic carcinomas are the most prevalent tumors that develop in the thymus's epithelial tissue. Thymomas are malignant tumors that develop from the epithelial cells of the thymus and frequently include mixed populations of lymphocytes. In contrast, thymic carcinomas are also tumors of the thymic epithelium, but they are characterized by a lack of lymphocytes, exhibit more aggressive behavior, and are associated with a poorer prognosis.

Burr Hole Reconstruction Techniques: A Systematic Review of Materials and Outcomes.

Background: Burr holes can lead to cranial defects that result in cosmetic and functional issues. Effective reconstruction of these burr holes is crucial for improving patient outcomes, yet there is no consensus on the optimal techniques and materials.

Objective: This systematic review critically evaluates the efficacy and safety of various materials used in neurosurgical practice for burr hole reconstruction.

A Comprehensive Review of Treatment Plans for Marginal Enamel Fractures in Anterior Teeth.

Marginal enamel fractures (MEF) are a common clinical concern in dentistry, particularly in anterior teeth. These fractures occur at the enamel margins and their etiopathogenesis involves a complex interplay of mechanical, chemical, and biological factors. The ongoing research focuses on an overview of MEF to improve the knowledge about this condition.

Access to specialist plastic surgery in rural vs. Urban areas of Africa.

Introduction: Plastic surgery is an essential yet underdeveloped field in many African nations, especially in rural areas. The demand for plastic surgery is increasing, but differences in access to respective services between rural and urban domiciles remain ever existent, despite the exponentiation of trauma, burns, and congenital disorders. According to this review, urban areas have access to better facilities and specialized surgeons, while rural areas frequently lack infrastructure, educated healthcare personnel, and medical resources.

Elevated frequency and severity of asthma in patients with hiatal hernia: A retrospective study.

Hiatal Hernia (HH) and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) have been found to be associated with respiratory conditions, such as pulmonary fibrosis. However, their association with asthma remains ambiguous. Thus, the present cross-sectional, retrospective, monocentric study aimed to investigate the prevalence of asthma among patients with HH, evaluate its severity in these patients, and screen for associated respiratory symptoms.

Compliance to international guidelines and rational use of antibiotics in urinary tract infections in a country without national guidance: a cross-sectional study.

Background: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most common bacterial infections, and appropriate antimicrobial therapy with agents that minimise resistance is crucial. Despite international concern, adherence to guidelines is still suboptimal. This study aims to determine the effect of the absence of national guidelines and the rate of conformity to international guidelines among physicians in antibiotic (ATB) prescriptions for the treatment of UTIs in adults and detect the factors that are associated with a higher rate of non-compliance.

Addressing Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Awareness and Knowledge Gaps Among Lebanese Medical Professionals: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Objective: In Lebanon, HIV prevalence among key populations such as men who have sex with men is high at 12%, warranting a need for targeted healthcare efforts. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is an effective prevention measure, yet global challenges persist, including limited awareness of PrEP among healthcare professionals. This study investigates PrEP awareness within the Lebanese medical community.

Predictors of Functional Impairment in Severe COVID-19 Patients Two Months After Discharge.

Background: The Post-COVID-19 Functional Status (PCFS) scale is a validated tool used to measure the functional status of patients discharged from the hospital.

Objectives: To describe the functional limitations of hospitalized COVID-19 patients at the time of discharge and two months afterward, and to identify risk factors associated with functional impairment.

Design: Retrospective study.

Update on Management of Retinopathy of Prematurity: A Review.

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) remains a significant health care concern in neonatal care as advances in neonatal intensive practices have improved the survival rates of premature infants. The management and screening of ROP have evolved significantly, with notable trends and advancements aimed at improving outcomes. The use of intravitreal antivascular endothelial growth factor injections has emerged as a prominent initial treatment for ROP in addition to laser photocoagulation.

Addressing "what matters most" to reduce mental health stigma in primary healthcare settings: a qualitative study in Lebanon.

Background: "What matters most" (WMM) is a theoretical framework based on medical anthropology and draws on cultural concepts of values and morals. It has been employed to identify cross-cultural aspects of mental health stigma. This approach assists practitioners, advocates, and researchers in assessing stigma-related factors that are relevant to the experiences of individuals in diverse cultural contexts.

Muscle fat infiltration: a narrative review of the magnetic resonance (MR)-based evaluation methods and their clinical applications.

Background And Objective: Muscle fat infiltration (MFI) can be seen in several pathologies of various origin including neuromuscular, endocrinological, or musculoskeletal etiologies. Its evaluation is possible through medical imaging, especially MRI, using qualitative or quantitative methods. This paper is an overview of the techniques used to evaluate MFI in different pathologies.

Efficacy of Wilate Prophylaxis in Reducing Nosebleeds in Patients with Severe VWD - A Post-hoc Analysis of the WIL-31 Study.

Background: Prophylaxis with a von Willebrand factor (VWF) concentrate is recommended in von Willebrand disease (VWD) patients with a history of frequent and severe bleeds. Despite nosebleeds being a frequent manifestation of VWD, few studies have investigated the efficacy of factor prophylaxis in preventing nosebleeds in patients with severe VWD.

Methods: This post-hoc analysis of a prospective, 12-month, phase 3 study assessed the efficacy of wilate in the prevention of nosebleeds in 33 patients aged ≥6 years with severe type 1, type 2 or type 3 VWD.

Analysis of the content of YouTube videos discussing acne, psoriasis, and anti-aging skincare in Arabic.

An increasing number of patients turn to YouTube for medical information, driving the growth of research on medical video content, including in dermatology. The objective was to analyze the content of YouTube videos discussing acne, psoriasis, or anti-aging skincare in Arabic. This infodemiological study analyzed the most viewed videos on these topics.

Management of Synthol-induced Fibrosis.

Site enhancement oils, such as synthol, are sometimes used by bodybuilders to artificially increase muscle size and shape. However, these injections can lead to severe complications, including fibrosis, infections, and impaired muscle function. We report the case of a 45-year-old male patient who presented with severe fibrosis and recurrent infections in the pectoral region following synthol injections.