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Copyright of Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft is the property of Wiley-Blackwell and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This article discusses the limitations of trans language activism (TLA) from a US-centric perspective and the replication of a colonial hierarchy that privileges the Global North. The authors argue for a more inclusive and nuanced approach to TLA by engaging with scholarship from the Global South, particularly Latin America. They propose three challenges for TLA: moving southward to incorporate knowledge from the Global South, tracking TLA's genealogies and attending to context, and shifting focus from ideologies to practices. The authors emphasize the need for intersectional coalitions and accountability in TLA to address power dynamics and cater to the diverse needs of trans communities. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses the limitations of trans language activism (TLA) from a US-centric perspective and the replication of a colonial hierarchy that privileges the Global North. The authors argue for a more inclusive and nuanced approach to TLA by engaging with scholarship from the Global South, particularly Latin America. They propose three challenges for TLA: moving southward to incorporate knowledge from the Global South, tracking TLA's genealogies and attending to context, and shifting focus from ideologies to practices. The authors emphasize the need for intersectional coalitions and accountability in TLA to address power dynamics and cater to the diverse needs of trans communities. [Extracted from the article]

The question of how to understand the relation between language and action lies at the heart of both philosophical pragmatics and linguistic anthropology. This same question, although framed in a very different way, also emerged as a basic concern for communist revolutionaries in Vietnam in the mid 1940s and, I contend, continues to exercise the imagination of party members and others up until the present day. Drawing inspiration from Asif Agha's definition of a (semiotic) register as a "cultural model of action," in this essay, I consider the ways in which Hồ Chí Minh along with other high‐ranking party members sought to reform Vietnamese through a project of register formation, and thereby to transform the language into an effective instrument of mass mobilization. I suggest that this project centrally involved reconceptualizing the relationship between language and action and was pursued by, on the one hand, identifying and proscribing ways of speaking in which the connection with action was seen to be broken such that speech amounted to "mere words" and, on the other, by promoting a way of speaking in which, as the frequently used Vietnamese expression has it, "speaking goes hand‐in‐hand with doing" (nói đi đôi với làm). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Administrative health data, such as hospital admission data, are often used in research to identify children/young people with cerebral palsy (CP). Objectives: To compare sociodemographic, clinical details and mortality of children/young people identified as having CP in either a CP population registry or hospital admission data. Methods: We identified two cohorts of children/young people (birth years 2001–2010, age at study end or death 2 months to 19 years 6 months) with a diagnosis of CP from either (i) the New South Wales (NSW)/Australian Capital Territory (ACT) CP Register or (ii) NSW hospital admission data (2001–2020). Using record linkage, these data sources were linked to each other and NSW Death, Perinatal, and Disability datasets. We determined the sensitivity and positive predictive value (PPV) of CP diagnosis in hospital admission data compared with the NSW/ACT CP Register (gold standard). We then compared the sociodemographic and clinical characteristics and mortality of the two cohorts available through record linkage using standardised mean difference (SMD). Results: There were 1598 children/young people with CP in the NSW/ACT CP Register and 732–2439 children/young people with CP in hospital admission data, depending on the case definition used. The sensitivity of hospital admission data for diagnosis of CP ranged from 0.40–0.74 and PPV 0.47–0.73. Compared with children/young people with CP identified in the NSW/ACT CP Register, a greater proportion of those identified in hospital admission data (one or more admissions with G80 case definition) were older, lived in major cities, had comorbidities including epilepsy, gastrostomy use, intellectual disability and autism, and died during the study period (SMD > 0.1). Conclusions: Sociodemographic and clinical characteristics differ between cohorts of children/young people with CP identified using a CP register or hospital admission data. Those identified in hospital admission data have higher rates of comorbidities and death, suggesting some may have progressive conditions and not CP. These differences should be considered when planning and interpreting research using various data sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Allergic rhinitis (AR) has been well documented using questionnaire‐based studies. Here, we examine the agreement between parental‐reported data during childhood with the emphasis on 12‐year‐olds and data from two national Swedish registers to determine whether register data on AR can supplement or replace questionnaire data. Methods: Data were collected from a prospective, longitudinal cohort study of children born in western Sweden in 2003. Parental questionnaires were filled out at 6 months and one, four, eight, and 12 years of age. A total of 3634 children were linked to the Swedish Prescribed Drug Register (SPDR) and the National Patient Register (NPR) using personal identity numbers. The agreement between the register and questionnaire data was estimated using Cohen's kappa with 95% confidence intervals. Results: According to the SPDR, 9.9% (n = 360/3634) of the children were dispensed specific AR medication at 11–13 years of age compared with the 12 years questionnaire where 23% reported AR medication use during the last 12 months. The overall agreement between questionnaire and SPDR data on AR medication was slight (kappa 0.05). At 11–12 years, 1.8% (n = 65/3634) of the children received an outpatient AR diagnosis in the NPR, while 10% reported doctor‐diagnosed AR in the questionnaire. The overall agreement between questionnaire and NPR data on AR diagnosis was slight (kappa 0.16). Conclusions: There was poor agreement between questionnaire and register data regarding AR and dispensed medication. Explanations could include over‐the‐counter drugs and diagnosis in primary care, which are not included in the registers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Multiple cancer registries in Australia are used to track the incidence of cancer and the outcomes of their treatment. These registries can be broadly classed into a few types with an increasing number of registries comes a greater potential for collaboration and linkage. This article aims to critically review cancer registry types in Australia and evaluate the Australian Cancer registry landscape to identify these areas. Methods: A systematic review was performed through MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane Library, updated to September 2022 using a predefined search strategy. Inclusion criteria were those that only analysed Australian and/or New Zealand based cancer registries, appraised the utility of cancer outcomes and/or incidence registries, and explored the utility of linked databases using cancer outcomes and/or incidence registries. The grey literature was searched for all operating cancer registries in Australia. Details of registry infrastructure was extracted for analysis and comparison. Results: Three thousand two hundred and sixteen articles identified from the three databases. Twelve met the inclusion criteria. Twenty‐eight registries were identified using the grey literature. Strengths and weaknesses of Cancer Outcome Registries(COR) and Cancer Incidence Registries(CIR) were compared. Data linkage between registries or with other healthcare databases show great benefits in improving evidence for cancer research but are challenging to implement. Both registry types utilize differing modes of administration, influencing their accuracy and completeness. Conclusion: Outcome registries provide detailed data but their weakness lies in incomplete data coverage. Incidence registries record a large dataset which contain inaccuracies. Improving coverage of quality outcome registries, and quality assurance of data in incidence registries is required to ensure collection of accurate, meaningful data. Areas for collaboration identified included establishment of defined definitions and outcomes, data linkage between registry types or with healthcare databases, and collaboration in logistical planning to improve clinical utility of cancer registries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft is the property of Wiley-Blackwell and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The disease trajectory and healthcare requirements of patients with young‐onset dementia (YOD) differ from those of older patients. Accurate data about YOD is crucial to improve diagnosis and optimize care. PRECODE‐GP aims to set up a prospective national database of patients with YOD to gain insight into the occurrence and characteristics of patients with YOD in memory clinics in the Netherlands. The national database includes data from dementia patients aged <70 years at diagnosis, collected by local memory clinics (MCs). Data included demographic information, clinical variables, and (etiological) diagnoses. Between July 2019 and December 2022, 781 patients with a mean age of 62±6y at diagnosis (range 37 to 69y) were included from 39 MCs. Most (n = 547,70%) were diagnosed with dementia due to Alzheimer's disease (AD). Patients with Frontotemporal lobe dementia (FTD, n = 87, 11%) were youngest (61±6.0y). Over half (55%) of patients were experiencing symptoms for ≥2 years. We initiated a Dutch national YOD database to improve diagnosis and care for this underrepresented and vulnerable patient group. The database provides a basis for future in‐depth studies on YOD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate the surgical and pharmacological management and outcomes of patients with cataract and concurrent uveitis. Methods: Data from the Swedish National Cataract Register, 2018–2019, were collected and analysed. Uveitic eyes were identified and eyes without uveitis were used as controls. Generalized estimating equations were used to adjust for intra‐individual correlation. Results: The study included 719 eyes with and 256 360 without uveitis. The mean age was 66.0 ± 13.5 (standard deviation [SD]) years in the uveitis group and 74.3 ± 8.7 years in the control group (p < 0.001). Surgery was associated with more intraoperative difficulties in eyes with uveitis (27.0%) than in control eyes (7.1%; p < 0.001). Posterior capsule rupture/zonular complications were registered in nine eyes with uveitis (1.3%) and in 1464 eyes without uveitis (0.6%; p = 0.02). Hydrophilic acrylic intraocular lenses (uveitis 3.6%, controls 1.2%) and subconjunctival steroids (uveitis 17.4%, controls 6.1%) were more frequently used in eyes with uveitis (p < 0.001). post‐operative best‐corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 0.16 ± 0.38 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR, mean ± SD) in eyes with uveitis (n = 52) and 0.08 ± 0.20 in control eyes (n = 14 489; p = 0.008). Conclusion: In this large registry‐based Swedish cohort study, the findings demonstrate that cataract surgery in patients with uveitis poses more challenges and requires special surgical precautions. Eyes with concurrent uveitis had worse BCVA prior to and following surgery. Despite the intraoperative challenges, the visual improvement was greater in the uveitic group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Pregnancy is a risk factor for severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and adverse pregnancy outcomes. We aimed to explore maternal characteristics, pregnancy outcomes, vaccination status, and virus variants among pregnant women admitted to intensive care units (ICU) with severe COVID-19. Material and methods: We identified pregnant women admitted to ICU in Sweden (n = 96), Norway (n = 31), and Denmark (n = 16) because of severe COVID-19, from national registers and clinical databases between March 2020 and February 2022 (Denmark), August 2022 (Sweden), or December 2022 (Norway). Their background characteristics, pregnancy outcome, and vaccination status were compared with all birthing women and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) test-positive pregnant women during the same time period. We calculated the number admitted to ICU per 10 000 birthing and per 1000 SARS-CoV-2 test-positive women during the Index, Alpha, Delta, and Omicron periods. Results: Women admitted to ICU had a higher mean body mass index, were more often of non-Scandinavian origin, had on average lower education and income levels, had a higher proportion of chronic and pregnancy-related conditions, delivered preterm, had neonates with low Apgar scores, and had more infants admitted to neonatal care, compared with all birthing and test-positive pregnant women. Of those admitted to ICU, only 7% had been vaccinated before admission. Overall, the highest proportion of women admitted to ICU per birthing was during the Delta period (4.1 per 10 000 birthing women). In Norway, the highest proportion admitted to ICU per test-positive pregnant women was during the Delta period (17.8 per 1000 test-positive), whereas the highest proportion of admitted per test-positive in Sweden and Denmark was seen during the Index period (15.4 and 8.9 per 1000 test-positive, respectively). Conclusions: Admission to ICU because of COVID-19 in pregnancy was a rare event in the Scandinavian countries, but women who were unvaccinated, of non-Scandinavian origin, and with lower socio-economic status were at higher risk of admission to ICU. In addition, women admitted to ICU for COVID-19 had higher risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The incidence of and mortality from cancers of the cervix uteri and corpus uteri are underestimated if the presence of uterine cancers, where the exact topography (site of origin) is not specified, is omitted. In this paper we present the corrected figures on mortality from and incidence of cervix and corpus uteri cancers in the Nordic countries by reallocating unspecified uterine cancer deaths and cases to originate either from the corpus uteri or cervix uteri. To further validate the accuracy of reallocation, we also analyzed how well the reallocation captures the changes occurring as the result of a transition in cause of death coding in Norway that took place in 2005. Material and Methods: This study uses data available in the NORDCAN database, which contains aggregated cancer data from all the Nordic countries for the years 1960–2016. The unspecified uterine cancer cases and deaths were reallocated to either cervix uteri or corpus uteri based on the estimated probability that follows the distribution of cases and deaths with verified topography. The estimated proportions of cases and deaths for both cancers were calculated for each combination of age group, year, and country as a proportion of cases (and deaths, respectively) with known topography. Annual age‐standardized rates were calculated by direct age‐adjustment. Results: The proportions of unspecified uterine cancers were higher in the mortality data than in incidence data, with mean values for 1960–2016 ranging between 5.1% and 26.6% and between 0.2% and 6.8% by country, respectively. In the Nordic countries combined, the reallocation increased the number of cases by 4% and deaths by approximately 20% for both cancers. Finland was the only Nordic country where the mortality rate did not increase substantially after reallocation. Conclusions: The reallocation procedure had a significant impact on mortality from cancers of the cervix and corpus uteri for countries where the proportion of cancer deaths coded as uterus, not otherwise specified, is substantial. More effort to validate cause of death data with incidence data from cancer registries is warranted to avoid erroneous conclusions of temporal trends based on uncorrected cancer burden. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Swedish National Inpatient Register (NPR) has near‐complete coverage of in‐hospital admissions and ICD codes in Sweden. Acute pulmonary embolism (PE) is a serious condition presenting challenges regarding diagnosis, treatment, and follow‐up. Here we aimed to validate the accuracy of acute PE diagnosis in the NPR, investigational findings, antithrombotic treatment, and follow‐up of PE patients in Sweden. From a nation‐wide cohort of all patients with in‐hospital diagnoses of acute PE (ICD‐10‐SE codes I26.0–I26.9) in 2005 (n = 5793), we selected those from two Swedish regions for thorough manual review of hospital records. We identified 599 patients with PE diagnoses according to the ICD‐10 coding system. We excluded 58 patients with admissions related to previous PE (47; 8%) or incorrect ICD codes (11; 2%), leaving 501 patients with probable PE diagnoses. We confirmed the diagnosis in 441 (79%) cases, which was based on imaging (435 patients; 73%) or autopsy (6; 1%). In the remaining 60 (11%) cases, the PE diagnosis was based on clinical findings and can therefore not be confirmed. Of the surviving patients with PE, 231 (47%) were offered follow‐up within 6 months after the acute event. At follow‐up, 67 patients (29%) had symptoms requiring clinical attention (dyspnoea or reduced general condition). The Swedish NPR showed acceptable accuracy for PE diagnosis, and could be reliably used for register‐based research regarding acute PE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Follow‐up for heterogeneous intensive care patients presents challenges for rehabilitation interventions and outcome measurements. The aim was to describe and explore characteristics and determinants for visiting/not visiting a nurse‐led clinic (NLC) at different time‐points, and to describe physical and mental health (HRQoL) over time. Methods: Patients with a length of stay (LOS) of ≥72 hours, discharged from a general intensive care unit 2004‐2014, who participated in a 6‐month follow‐up programme offering visits to NLC at 2 and 6 months were included. The register study includes information regarding patients' participation in NLC, clinical and demographic data from the Patient Administrative System within Intensive care, and data on 2‐, 6‐ and 12‐month HRQoL by using SF‐36 from the Swedish Intensive Care Registry. Results: Of 656 patients, 57% visited the NLC on some occasion. These patients were younger (P =.000), had lower Simplified Acute Physiology scores (P =.001) and higher SF‐36 physical health domain scores at 2 months (P <.05) compared to those not visiting at all. Visitors at 2 months only were younger, had shorter LOS and higher physical and mental domain scores than patients visiting at 6 months only. Patients visiting the NLC scored significantly higher in all domains from 2 to 12 months, whereas non‐visiting‐patients' did this in four out of eight domains during the same time frame. Conclusion: Individual patient's characteristics and current health conditions seem to influence visits to NLC or not. The findings may contribute to the development of existing routines to match the diversity of patients' needs and life situations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Since several recent meta‐analyses report a dose‐response relationship for the antidepressant effect of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), we investigated how these drugs are dosed in clinical practice. Methods: Through linkage of nation‐ or region‐wide registers, we describe SSRI doses in 50,365 individuals residing in Region Västra Götaland, Sweden, with an incident diagnosis of depression and initiating SSRI treatment between 2007 and 2016. The primary question was to elucidate to what extent these individuals had been prescribed a daily dose that according to recent meta‐analyses is required to elicit the maximum antidepressant effect, that is >20 mg citalopram, >10 mg escitalopram, >10 mg fluoxetine, >10 mg paroxetine or >50 mg sertraline. Results: In all, 21,049 (54%) out of 38,868 individuals <65 years of age, and 9,131 (79%) out of 11,497 individuals ≥65 years of age, never received an SSRI dose reported to exert maximum antidepressant effect. These prescribing practices were seen for citalopram, escitalopram and sertraline, but not for fluoxetine and paroxetine, and were frequent in both primary and secondary/tertiary care. Suggesting that doses here defined as maximum efficacy doses, when prescribed, are usually not intolerable, between 59% and 68% of individuals <65 years of age received such a dose also for the subsequent prescription, that is as frequently as in those prescribed a sub‐maximum efficacy dose (52–69%). Conclusion: Most patients being prescribed an SSRI to treat their depression never receive the dose that according to recent meta‐analyses is most likely to effectively combat their condition. The lack of consensus regarding effective dosing of SSRIs may have contributed to this state of affairs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At the height of the Spanish economic crisis that began in 2008, tens of thousands of Spanish migrants and Peruvian return migrants moved to Peru following openings in an unprecedentedly promising Peruvian job market. Tensions ensued; colonial history came to be more actively discussed by locals as the number of Spanish businesses increased. This article shows that extant notions of "local" and "foreign" emerge from sets of complex characterological figures defined by sign‐clusters that index "Peruvianness" and "Spaniardness," developed to uphold middle‐class speech practices as quintessentially Peruvian. Three features are explored: excessive volume, the presence of the phoneme /θ/ in speech, and the perceived excessive use of expletives. Enregistering these features as "foreign," middle class, nonmigrant Limeños sought to match their actualized upward mobility within the space of the city to the world stage, but in doing so, they ironically repurposed colonial forms of respectability to criticize the behaviors of Spanish migrants and return migrants who they found to be tainted by Spaniardness. This case demonstrates that while the specific colonial aspirational horizon (i.e., directly copying the metropole) may be gone, its ethos remains moored to nationalized ideologies of propriety, respectability, and class distinction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study examined the validity of childhood depression diagnoses in the Danish Psychiatric Central Research Register (DPCRR) and identified predictors of validity. Methods: A nationwide random sample of 500 children (6–17 years) diagnosed with depression between 1996 and 2016 was identified in the DPCRR. Psychiatric hospital records were reviewed and rated using an online checklist. The primary outcome was whether depressive symptoms and functional impairment documented in hospital records justified a depressive disorder diagnosis based on ICD‐10 or DSM‐5 diagnostic criteria. Diagnostic validity was calculated as the positive predictive value. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to identify potential predictors of diagnostic validity, and these were included in a multiple logistic regression. Results: Psychiatric hospital records were available for 393 patients (78.6%). The documentation in the records justified an ICD‐10 depressive episode diagnosis in 72.8%, and DSM‐5 major depressive disorder in 73.3% of the patients registered with a depression diagnosis. We identified three predictors of diagnostic validity: (i) The validity increased almost linearly from 2000 to 2016 (OR 1.14, 95% CI 1.07–1.20, p < 0.001), (ii) antidepressant use was associated with increased diagnostic validity (OR 2.27, 95% CI 1.35–3.82, p = 0.002) and (iii) emergency department admission predicted low diagnostic validity (OR 0.33, 95% CI 0.12–0.93, p = 0.036). Conclusion: Childhood depression diagnoses registered in the DPCRR show a satisfactory validity according to both ICD‐10 and DSM‐5 diagnostic criteria. Diagnostic validity increased steadily from 2000 to 2016 and was positively correlated with antidepressant use. Depression diagnoses assigned in emergency departments had low diagnostic validity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to assess the characteristics of different designs of systematic reviews (SRs) registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) about COVID‐19. Methods: The search was performed in the PROSPERO database using the strategy proposed by the database and considered only human studies. The last date of the search was April 27, 2020. Full text of all records was accessed, and data were extracted by a single researcher, which was further double‐checked by another researcher. A descriptive analysis was performed considering record characteristics using tables. Results: We included 564 records from which the vast majority were registered as SRs (n = 513, 91%). In general, we found poor reporting and missing or confusing information, since 84% of the records (n = 474) did not report the full search that would be adopted, 16% (n = 90) did not report clearly the databases that would be used, and 49.1% (n = 277) did not report the number of primary outcomes. The main focus of most of the records involved clinical, epidemiological, complication, and laboratory characteristics (n = 173, 30.7%) or the treatment of COVID‐19 (n = 138, 24.5%). Conclusion: A large number of SRs about COVID‐19 have been conducted, and many of the assessed records were poorly reported and would be difficult to replicate. Besides, collected data points to an epidemic of redundant reviews on COVID‐19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and purpose: In relapsing‐remitting multiple sclerosis patients (RRMS) disability progressively accumulates over time. To compare the cumulative probability of 6‐month confirmed disability‐worsening events using a fixed baseline or a roving Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) reference, in a real‐world setting. Methods: A cohort of 7964 RRMS patients followed for 2 or more years, with EDSS scores recorded every 6 months, was selected from the Italian Multiple Sclerosis Register. The overall probability of confirmed disability‐worsening events and of confirmed disability‐worsening events unrelated to relapse was evaluated using as reference a fixed baseline EDSS score or a roving EDSS score in which the increase had to be separated from the last EDSS assessment by at least 6 or 12 months. Results: Using a fixed baseline EDSS reference, the cumulative probability of 6‐year overall confirmed disability‐worsening events was 33.2%, and that of events unrelated to relapse was 10.9% (33% of overall confirmed disability‐worsening events). Using a roving EDSS, the proportions were respectively 35.2% and 21.3% (61% of overall confirmed disability‐worsening events). Conclusions: In a real‐world setting, roving EDSS reference scores appear to be more sensitive for detecting confirmed disability‐worsening events unrelated to relapse in RRMS patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a novel LSTM model for precise prediction of initial register value in OLED Gamma tuning. Usually the bottleneck of Gamma tuning speed depends on the accuracy of initial register value prediction in IC modules for each bind point. By utilizing the long short‐term memory character of LSTM, high prediction accuracy is achieved which greatly shrink the search time for register value, thus reducing the overall average tuning time for each bind point of OLED screens and enhancing the amounts of adjusted screens per unit time in autonomous pipelines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The Dutch Brain Research Registry aims to facilitate online recruitment of participants for brain disease studies. Methods: Registrants were primarily recruited through an online social media campaign. The registration process included a short questionnaire, which was subsequently used in the prescreening process to match participants to studies. Results: In the first 18 months, 17,218 registrants signed up (58±11 years old, 78% female). Out of 34,696 study invitations that were sent, 36% were accepted by registrants, of which 50% to 84% were finally enrolled, resulting in 10,661 participants in 28 studies. Compared to non-participants, study participants were more often older, male, more highly educated, retired or unemployed, non-smoking, healthier, and more often had a family member with dementia. Discussion: The Dutch Brain Research Registry facilitates effective matching of participants to brain disease studies. Participant factors related to study enrollment may reflect facilitators or barriers for participation, which is useful for improving recruitment strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We provide an update on the state of research on phonation (the production of sound by the vocal folds) since Gordon and Ladefoged's, Journal of Phonetics, 2001 29, 383–406 overview, focusing on the acoustics of breathiness, creak, and other linguistic voice qualities. We highlight cross‐linguistic variation, introduce measuring techniques, and discuss the relationship between phonation and other phonological dimensions (e.g., tone, vowel quality). We also review perceptual literature, an area of phonation research that has greatly expanded recently. Taken together, the studies reviewed demonstrate that phonation types indeed lie not just on a single continuum, but in a multidimensional space. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The aim of this work was to examine (1) the incidence of primary repair, (2) the incidence of recurrent repair and (3) the types of repair performed in patients with parastomal bulging. Method: Prospectively collected data on parastomal bulging from the Danish Stoma Database were linked to surgical data on repair of parastomal bulging from the Danish National Patient Register. Survival statistics provided cumulative incidences and time until primary and recurrent repair. Results: In the study sample of 1016 patients with a permanent stoma and a parastomal bulge, 180 (18%) underwent surgical repair. The cumulative incidence of a primary repair was 9% [95% CI (8%; 11%)] within 1 year and 19% [95% CI (17%; 22%)] within 5 years after the occurrence of a parastomal bulge. We found a similar probability of undergoing primary repair in patients with ileostomy and colostomy. For recurrent repair, the 5‐year cumulative incidence was 5% [95% CI (3%; 7%)]. In patients undergoing repair, the probability was 33% [95% CI (21%; 46%)] of having a recurrence requiring repair within 5 years. The main primary repair was open or laparoscopic repair with mesh (43%) followed by stoma revision (39%). Stoma revision and repair with mesh could precede or follow one another as primary and recurrent repair. Stoma reversal was performed in 17% of patients. Conclusion: Five years after the occurrence of a parastomal bulge the estimated probability of undergoing a repair was 19%. Having undergone a primary repair, the probability of recurrent repair was high. Stoma reversal was more common than expected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article examines the phenomenon of anti‐Trump witchcraft, popularized by Michael Hughes's viral 2017 ritual ("A Spell to Bind Donald Trump and All Those Who Abet Him"), as an instance of register circulation and ultimately register synthesis. Drawing on a digital ethnography of the #MagicResistance movement, including videotaped rituals and interviews with practitioners, the analysis finds that practitioners use the affordance of register incongruity in mediatized online contexts to publicly intertwine the language of American witchcraft with political stance‐taking, disseminating indexical links between witchcraft and leftist political orientations. Practitioners variously characterize the language of #MagicResistance rituals as a mismatch between or a synthesis of two registers, demonstrating that register (in)congruity is interactionally constructed rather than prediscursive. Furthermore, practitioners emphasize the cathartic and empowering effects of ritual practice, showing how register circulation—often analyzed at the macrosocial level—manifests in relation to microsocial agency and affect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Previous studies have suggested an association between season of birth and risk of childhood asthma and allergic disease. The association may be modified by birth year and region, or mediated by respiratory tract infections. Objective: We aimed to estimate the association between season of birth and risk of childhood asthma/wheeze or allergic rhinoconjunctivitis in a population‐based setting, and the mediating effect of lower respiratory infections. Methods: Two population‐based cohorts were identified from the nationwide Swedish Medical Birth, Patient and Prescribed Drug Registers. The association between birth month/season and asthma/wheeze incidence was analysed using Cox proportional regression in the younger cohort born 2005‐2010 (n = 582 494) and asthma/allergic rhinoconjunctivitis prevalence during the 7th year of life using log‐binomial models in the older cohort born 2001‐2004 (n = 367 583). Interactions were formally tested. Mediation analyses to address the effect of lower respiratory infections were performed in the older cohort using the R package "medflex." Results: Children born during fall and winter had an increased risk of asthma/wheeze after 2 years of age in the younger cohort: hazard ratio 1.24 (95% confidence interval, CI 1.17, 1.33) for winter and risk of prevalent asthma during their 7th year of life in the older cohort; prevalence ratio (PR) 1.12 (95% CI 1.08, 1.16) for winter. These estimates were partly mediated by lower respiratory infections; the indirect effect for winter compared with summer was PR 1.03 (95% CI 1.03, 1.04). The association was similar for allergic rhinoconjunctivitis in the 7th year of life, but not mediated by respiratory infections. Conclusion: We found that the association between season of birth and risk of childhood asthma/wheeze, but not allergic rhinoconjunctivitis, is partly mediated through lower respiratory infections. Clinical relevance: This has important implications for patient care, such as asthma management programmes to notify timing of seasonality for viral respiratory tract infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To describe the Swedish Neonatal Quality Register (SNQ) and to determine its completeness and agreement with other registers.Methods: SNQ collects data for infants admitted to neonatal units during the first four postnatal weeks. Completeness and registers' agreement were determined cross-linking SNQ data with Swedish population registers (the Inpatient, Medical Birth and Cause of Death Registers) for a study period of five years.Results: In total, 84 712 infants were hospitalised. A total of 52 806 infants occurred in both SNQ and the population registers; 28 692 were only found in the population registers, and 3214 infants were only found in SNQ. Between gestational weeks 24-34, completeness of SNQ was 98-99%. Below and above these gestational ages, completeness was lower. Infants missing in SNQ were term or near-term in 99% of the cases, and their diagnoses indicated conditions managed in maternity units, or re-admissions for acute infections, managed in paediatric units. For most diagnoses, the agreement between SNQ and population registers was high, but some (bronchopulmonary dysplasia and grade of hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy) were often missing in the population registers.Conclusion: SNQ completeness and agreement against other registers, especially for preterm infants, is excellent. SNQ is a valid tool for benchmarking, quality improvement and research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Despite a generally decreased length of stay in Swedish hospitals, an increasing delay of discharge has been observed among patients with long‐term care need. Aim: Identify challenges and opportunities in the transition of patients between hospitals and out‐patient care. Method: Data were obtained from national registers on patients discharged from hospitals in 2014, interviews with public care authorities, and a systematic literature review. Results: A total of 1 121 823 persons were discharged from Swedish hospitals in 2014. Of all discharged patients, 334 420 (30%) was in need of further out‐patient medical care while 221 221 (20%) needed social services. Among these discharged patients, 53 763 (5%) needed both medical care and social services. In this group of frail persons (primarily females 80 years or older), 25 760 (48%) were readmitted to hospital within 30 days from the discharge. Main reported challenges in the transition were as follows: a decreasing number of beds in hospitals and nursing homes, lack of staff with proper education, and problems in transfer of information between caregivers. To solve these problems, respondents reported some new approaches: extensive initial home services after discharge, out‐patient care organised by both municipalities and county councils, local follow‐up of patient data as well as an emphasis on collaboration between caregivers. The literature reported ambiguous results about effects of single interventions at discharge. However, evidence suggests that the number of readmissions to hospital may be reduced by combining several interventions before discharge (individual planning, geriatric assessment, and patient education) with follow‐up after discharge. Conclusion: Since many frail patients are readmitted to hospital within 30 days after discharge, Swedish out‐patient care may need new working methods in order to promote a coherent care. Further, multi‐component interventions at discharge, including follow‐up after discharge, may prevent unintended readmissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: Opioid agonist treatment (OAT) is currently the most effective treatment for people with opioid dependence. In most countries, however, access to the whole range of effective medications is restricted. This study aims to model the distribution of different OAT medications within a naturalistic and relatively unrestricted treatment setting (Zurich, Switzerland) over time, and to identify patient characteristics associated with each medication. Methods: We used generalized estimating equation analysis with data from the OAT register of Zurich and the Swiss register for heroin‐assisted treatment (HAT) to model and forecast the annual proportion of opioids applying exponential distributions until 2018 and patient characteristics between 1992 and 2015. Results: Data from 11 895 patients were included in the analysis. Methadone remains the mainstay of OAT, being prescribed to two‐thirds of patients. Following its approval, the proportion of HAT increased rapidly and is now constant at 12.16% [95% confidence interval (CI) = 11.15–13.17]. The initial increase of proportions of buprenorphine or slow‐release oral morphine (SROM) following their approval for OAT was slower. While in 2014 both medications had a proportion of 10.2% and 10.3%, respectively, our model predicts a further increase of SROM to 19.9% in 2018, with a ceiling level of 25.19% (21.40–28.98%) thereafter. SROM patients display characteristics similar to those treated with methadone; buprenorphine patients show the highest social integration; and HAT patients are the most homogeneous group, with highest mean age, most widespread injecting experience and lowest social integration. Conclusions: Based on data from Zurich, Switzerland from 1992 to 2015, there is no evidence for an excessive demand for a single medication in a naturalistic and liberal opioid agonist treatment setting. Rather, the specific patient characteristics associated with each medication underline the need for diversified treatment options for opioid dependence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To explore the association between retinal vein occlusion (RVO) and incident cancer. Methods: All Danish citizens with a first‐time diagnosis of RVO and no previous diagnosis of cancer in the period from 1 January 2004 to 31 December 2014 were included. Five likewise cancer‐free, age‐ and gender‐matched controls were included in a control cohort. All were followed up for 5 years or until either first diagnosis of cancer or death. Proportional hazards models with adjustment for age, gender, year of diagnosis and covariates and death as competing risk were used to estimate the risk of being diagnosed with cancer. Results: There were 7963 RVO patients without cancer at the time of diagnosis, and all could be matched to likewise cancer‐free controls. Half of RVO patients were male, and the median age at RVO diagnosis was 70 years (61–79). The control cohort was similar in terms of gender and age. The risk of cancer within 1 year was 1.8 among RVO patients and 1.5 among controls. The crude risk of cancer was 1.22 (1.11;1.34) and upon full adjustment 1.15 (1.05;1.27). No time dependency was detected, and the types of cancer developed in RVO patients and controls were similar. Conclusion: Retinal vein occlusion (RVO) diagnosis is associated with an increased risk of being diagnosed with cancer. This risk is likely to reflect shared risk factors rather than a causal association. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose It is not possible to fully assess intention of self‐harm and suicidal events using information from administrative databases. We conducted a validation study of intention of suicide attempts/self‐harm contacts identified by a commonly applied Danish register‐based algorithm (DK‐algorithm) based on hospital discharge diagnosis and emergency room contacts. Methods: Of all 101 530 people identified with an incident suicide attempt/self‐harm contact at Danish hospitals between 1995 and 2012 using the DK‐algorithm, we selected a random sample of 475 people. We validated the DK‐algorithm against medical records applying the definitions and terminology of the Columbia Classification Algorithm of Suicide Assessment of suicidal events, nonsuicidal events, and indeterminate or potentially suicidal events. We calculated positive predictive values (PPVs) of the DK‐algorithm to identify suicidal events overall, by gender, age groups, and calendar time. Results: We retrieved medical records for 357 (75%) people. The PPV of the DK‐algorithm to identify suicidal events was 51.5% (95% CI: 46.4‐56.7) overall, 42.7% (95% CI: 35.2‐50.5) in males, and 58.5% (95% CI: 51.6‐65.1) in females. The PPV varied further across age groups and calendar time. After excluding cases identified via the DK‐algorithm by unspecific codes of intoxications and injury, the PPV improved slightly (56.8% [95% CI: 50.0‐63.4]). Conclusions: The DK‐algorithm can reliably identify self‐harm with suicidal intention in 52% of the identified cases of suicide attempts/self‐harm. The PPVs could be used for quantitative bias analysis and implemented as weights in future studies to estimate the proportion of suicidal events among cases identified via the DK‐algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Registries will enable cohort studies to be performed, which are usually considered to be the best quality of observational studies. The quality of data of registries can be increased if is it possible to merge results ('crosstalk') between registries. A prerequisite for that is an agreed uniform core set of data to be collected and uniform definitions on the items to be collected. This paper discusses problems and barriers with existing registries and provides recommendations from an EMA workshop (European Medicines Agency), for core common data sets and how to secure the quality of data collected. The PedNet registry including >2200 children with haemophilia is presented as an example of a registry/cohort study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT: The coexistence of degenerative disorders from the hip joint and the lumbar spine, known as “the hip‐spine syndrome,” is a common encounter in clinical practice. These degenerative conditions may cause similar symptoms which often entail diagnostic challenges in determining the origin of pain. Lumbar back surgery (LBS) with fusion and/or decompression, and total hip replacement (THR) are both often successful interventions. However, the knowledge is limited about the post‐operative patient‐reported outcome (PRO) following LBS in the presence of a prior THR. The aims of this study were to compare 1‐year post‐operative patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs) following lumbar back surgery (LBS) in patients with and without a prior total hip replacement (THR). Data from Swespine and the Swedish Hip Arthroplasty Register were linked in order to identify the study group of patients with THR prior to LBS. The study group (n = 220) and a matched control group (n = 220) with isolated LBS was defined by using a step‐wise selection process. Linear‐ and logistic regression analyses adjusted for age, sex and pre‐operative PROMs demonstrated that THR prior to LBS was associated with worse back‐pain (VAS) at 1‐year follow‐up (B = 5.3, 95%CI: 0.3;10.3). However, previous THR did not influence the EQ‐5D index (B = 0.01, 95%CI: −0.05;0.06), EQ VAS (B = −3.0, 95%CI: −6.9;1.0), leg pain (B = 1.5, 95%CI: −4.0;7.0), Oswestry Disability Index (B = 2.6, 95%CI: −0.5;5.6) or satisfaction (OR = 1.1, 97.5%CI 0.7;1.6). This knowledge is important to communicate prior to LBS in order to set proper expectations on surgical outcomes. © 2018 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:2484–2490, 2018. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Aim: The aim was to investigate the incidence and risk factors for parastomal bulging, a clinically important complication, in patients with an ileostomy or colostomy. Method: The Danish Stoma Database Capital Region prospectively collects data on patients with a stoma up to a year after surgery. Stoma care nurses clinically assessed the main outcome, parastomal bulging. We linked data from the Stoma Database to data from the Danish Anaesthesia Database. Cumulative incidence of parastomal bulging over the first year was calculated with death and stoma reversal as competing risks. Risk factors were investigated using an exploratory approach. Results: In a study population of 5019, the cumulative incidence (with competing risks) of parastomal bulging was 36.2% at 400 days after surgery. Age, colostomy, male gender, alcohol consumption and laparoscopy were associated with an increased risk of parastomal bulging. Compared with cancer, inflammatory bowel disease was associated with a lower risk of parastomal bulging, and diverticulitis was associated with a higher risk. Peristomal mesh and stomas placed through a separate incision were associated with a reduction in risk. There was neither increased nor decreased risk of parastomal bulging for body mass index, American Society of Anesthesiologists score, smoking status, emergency surgery and preoperative stoma site marking. Conclusion: Parastomal bulging is a common complication affecting one in three patients within 1 year of surgery. Along with previous findings, there is now considerable evidence for age and colostomy as being risk factors for parastomal bulging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT: National Registers document changes in the circumstance, practice, and outcome of surgery with the passage of time. In the context of total hip replacement (THR), registers can help elucidate the relevant factors that affect the clinical outcome. We evaluated the evolution of factors related to patient, surgical procedure, socio‐economy, and various outcome parameters after merging databases of the Swedish Hip Arthroplasty Register, Statistics Sweden and the National Board of Health and Welfare. Data on 193,253 THRs (164,113 patients) operated between 1999 and 2012 were merged. We studied the evolution of surgical volume, patient demographics, socio‐economic factors, surgical factors, length‐of‐stay, mortality rate, adverse events, re‐operation and revision rates, and Patient Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs). Throughout this time period the majority of patients were operated on with a diagnosis of primary osteoarthritis. Comorbidity indices increased each year observed. The share of all‐cemented implants has dropped from 92% to 68%. More than 88% of the bearings were metal‐on‐polyethylene. Length‐of‐stay decreased by 50%. There was a reduction in 30‐ and 90‐day mortality. Re‐operation and revision rates at 2 years are decreasing. The post‐operative PROMs improved despite the observation of worse pre‐operative pain scores getting over time. The demographics of patients receiving a THR, their comorbidities, and their primary diagnosis are changing. Notwithstanding these changes, outcomes like mortality, re‐operations, revisions, and PROMs have improved. The practice of hip arthroplasty has evolved, even in a country such as Sweden that is considered to be conservative with regard taking on new surgical practices. © 2017 The Authors. Journal of Orthopaedic Research® Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of Orthopaedic Research Society. J Orthop Res 36:432–442, 2018. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To examine the effect of pregnancy history on the risk of stillbirth.Methods: In a population-based cross-sectional study, data were reviewed from all women aged at least 20 years with singleton pregnancies in Finland between 2000 and 2010. The primary outcome-stillbirth-was defined as fetal death after 22 gestational weeks or death of a fetus weighing at least 500 g.Results: Among 604 047 singleton pregnancies, the prevalence of stillbirth was 3.17 per 1000 deliveries. Prevalence was lowest for multiparous women without previous pregnancy loss after adjusting for major pregnancy complications associated with stillbirth (placenta previa, placental abruption, and pre-eclampsia) and other confounders. Relative to these women, stillbirth prevalence was higher among multiparous women with previous spontaneous abortion and/or stillbirth (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.20, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.05-1.36), nulliparous women with no previous pregnancy loss (aOR 1.23, 95% CI 1.10-1.38), and nulliparous women with prior spontaneous abortion (aOR 1.43, 95% CI 1.18-1.74).Conclusion: Previous pregnancy loss was found to be an independent risk factor for stillbirth, irrespective of the number of prior deliveries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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This article illustrates how semiotic processes that form and circulate ideologies about race, language, and the elite are central to questions of coloniality. Considering the historical and contemporary context of the Philippines, I examine how notions of linguistic and racial 'mix' and 'excess' get linked to elite social figures and how one elite figure in particular-the 'conyo elite'-is reportedly heard and seen by a private school-educated listening subject that is constituted, in contrast, as 'middle-class elite.' I consider how iconizations of mixedness and excessiveness invent distinctions among Philippine elite types, producing an 'elite bifurcation' that recursively constitutes colonial hierarchies: positioning conyo elites as acting as colonists whose supposedly mixed and excessive qualities are regarded as immoral, overly modern, and a national betrayal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The awareness of the incidence and timing of postpartum venous thromboembolic events guides the use of thromboprophylaxis. Our aims were to assess the incidence and mortality of venous thromboembolic events and identify its associated risk factors during different postpartum periods.Material and Methods: A population-based controlled cohort study by combining four large registers in 2001-2011. All women with a recent delivery were identified. The incidence, risk factors and mortality of venous thromboembolic events 0-180 days after delivery were assessed by using all healthy delivered women as the control group. The incidence was compared with that of the nonpregnant women.Results: Among the 634 292 delivered women, 1169 had venous thromboembolic events 0-180 days postpartum. The incidence of venous thromboembolic events was highest during the first week postpartum: 37-fold compared with nonpregnant women, declining to two-fold immediately after that. Almost half of the venous thromboembolic events occurred between 43 and 180 days postpartum. The incidence of venous thromboembolic events was four-fold compared with that of nonpregnant women. Three venous thromboembolic events-related deaths occurred. Older age, higher body mass index, thrombophilia, multiple pregnancy, gestational diabetes, anemia, chorioamnionitis, threatening premature birth, in vitro fertilization with ovarian hyperstimulation, primiparity, cesarean section, cardiac/renal diseases, and varicose veins were associated with an increased risk for postpartum venous thromboembolic events. The risk remained elevated for 180 days in women with thrombophilia, cesarean section, multiple pregnancy, varicose veins, and cardiac disease.Conclusions: The risk of venous thromboembolic events remained elevated compared with that of the nonpregnant women after the usually defined postpartum period (6 weeks). The results might assist in selecting women in need of thromboprophylaxis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Kelsh et al. [2007]: Occup Med (Lond) 57:581-589 published a paper reanalyzing one of the few data sources publicly available on mesothelioma amongst brake workers, the Australian Mesothelioma Surveillance Registry (AMSR). This reanalysis was commissioned by lawyers representing the automobile manufacturing companies and did not align with an independent analysis published by Leigh and Driscoll [2003]: Occup Environ Health 9:206-217. Methods We sought to reevaluate the AMSR data ourselves to understand how the company-sponsored research categorized the data. Results In our re-analysis of the 78 brake-related folios in the AMSR, we determined that 57 were employed brake mechanics, 35 were employed brake mechanics with no other asbestos exposure besides brake work or repair, and 41 of these cases had no other asbestos exposure besides brake work or repair. Our classifications differed significantly from Kelsh et al. Conclusions We discuss how Kelsh et al. methodically reduced the relevant cases by following overly stringent criteria for inclusion. Am. J. Ind. Med. 60:152-162, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To provide in New Caledonian school children (i) the prevalence of rheumatic heart disease (RHD) detected by annual screening program using new World Heart Federation diagnostic criteria; (ii) the point prevalence of acute rheumatic fever (ARF); and (iii) to investigate socio-demographic risk factors associated with RHD.Methods: This study linked data from national ARF/RHD programs by combining ARF incidence data from the register with RHD prevalence data from echocardiographic screening data for a single age year of the population for overall point prevalence ARF/RHD rates. For the analysis, cases of echocardiographic detection of RHD are presumed to be synonymous with undiagnosed ARF. All results were weighted to minimise the bias introduced from absent pupils of each annual screening program. Incidence and prevalence were age-standardised to the WHO World Standard Population. Each 2013 cumulative prevalence of definite and borderline RHD was studied using a multivariate logistic regression adjusted for socio-demographic factors.Results: The overall age-standardised incidence of clinical and undiagnosed ARF (i.e. echocardiographic-detected RHD) was combined as point prevalence and estimated to be 99/10 000 cases in 2012 and 114/10 000 cases in 2013. This included 40/10 000 prevalent cases of asymptomatic RHD detected by screening each year. Being Melanesian, OR 23.2 (95% CI: 3.4-157.3), or Polynesian, OR 21.5 (95% CI: 2.9-157.7), was associated with a higher prevalence of having definite RHD compared with being Caucasian. Being a girl was associated with a higher risk of having borderline RHD, OR 1.9 (95% CI: 1.03-3.3).Conclusion: Without echocardiographic screening, ARF/RHD burden is substantially underestimated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The NPRTSG has collected data on pediatric KTx since 1994. The registry archives information from all centers that perform pediatric KTx in Denmark, Finland, Norway, and Sweden and has 100% coverage. The first NPRTSG report was published in 1998 and was based on data collected in the 1982─1996 period. The present report provides data on 602 pediatric KTx in the Nordic countries from 1997 to 2012. Comparison of the patient demographics and one- and three-yr graft survivals between the two time cohorts revealed no significant change in the recipient and donor demographics. The number of transplantations increased by approximately 30%, doubling the recipients below the age of two yr. The use of Tac and mycophenolate as primary immunosuppression increased from practically 0% to 50% and 40%, respectively. The one- and three-yr graft survivals improved significantly (p < 0.001), especially among the youngest recipients with transplant from DD. In these patients, the one-yr survival improved from 70% to 94.6% and the three-yr graft survival from 60% to 94.6%, respectively. The improved graft survival may be at least partly due to changes in immunosuppression strategies, but also greater experience may also be of importance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess implementation of provider-initiated testing and counselling (PITC) for HIV in Malawi.Methods: A review of PITC practices within 118 departments in 12 Ministry of Health (MoH) facilities across Malawi was conducted. Information on PITC practices was collected via a health facility survey. Data describing patient visits and HIV tests were abstracted from routinely collected programme data.Results: Reported PITC practices were highly variable. Most providers practiced symptom-based PITC. Antenatal clinics and maternity wards reported widespread use of routine opt-out PITC. In 2014, there was approximately 1 HIV test for every 15 clinic visits. HIV status was ascertained in 94.3% (5293/5615) of patients at tuberculosis clinics, 92.6% (30,675/33,142) of patients at antenatal clinics and 49.4% (6871/13,914) of patients at sexually transmitted infection clinics. Reported challenges to delivering PITC included test kit shortages (71/71 providers), insufficient physical space (58/71) and inadequate number of HIV counsellors (32/71) while providers from inpatient units cited the inability to test on weekends.Conclusions: Various models of PITC currently exist at MoH facilities in Malawi. Only antenatal and maternity clinics demonstrated high rates of routine opt-out PITC. The low ratio of facility visits to HIV tests suggests missed opportunities for HIV testing. However, the high proportion of patients at TB and antenatal clinics with known HIV status suggests that routine PITC is feasible. These results underscore the need to develop clear, standardised PITC policy and protocols, and to address obstacles of limited health commodities, infrastructure and human resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives To investigate whether there is an increased risk of cancer associated with lithium treatment in patients with bipolar disorder compared to the general population. Methods A nationwide Swedish register study of incidence rate ratios ( IRRs) of total cancer and site-specific cancer in the 50-84-year age range was carried out in patients with bipolar disorder (n = 5,442) with and without lithium treatment from July 2005 to December 2009 compared to the general population using linked information from The Swedish Cancer Register, The National Patient Register, and The Drug Prescription Register. Results The overall cancer risk was not increased in patients with bipolar disorder. There was no difference in risk of unspecified cancer, neither in patients with lithium treatment compared to the general population [ IRR = 1.04, 95% confidence interval ( CI): 0.89-1.23] nor in patients with bipolar disorder without lithium treatment compared to the general population ( IRR = 1.03, 95% CI: 0.89-1.19). The cancer risk was significantly increased in patients with bipolar disorder without lithium treatment in the digestive organs ( IRR = 1.47, 95% CI: 1.12-1.93), in the respiratory system and intrathoracic organs ( IRR = 1.72, 95% CI: 1.11-2.66), and in the endocrine glands and related structures ( IRR = 2.60, 95% CI: 1.24-5.47), but in patients with bipolar disorder with lithium treatment, there was no significantly increased cancer risk compared to the general population. Conclusions Bipolar disorder was not associated with increased cancer incidence and neither was lithium treatment in these patients. Specifically, there was an increased risk of respiratory, gastrointestinal, and endocrine cancer in patients with bipolar disorder without lithium treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the challenges of estimating risk-adjusted treatment costs in international comparative research, specifically in the European Health Care Outcomes, Performance, and Efficiency (EuroHOPE) project. We describe the diverse format of resource data and challenges of converting these data into resource use indicators that allow meaningful cross-country comparisons. The three cost indicators developed in EuroHOPE are then described, discussed, and applied. We compare the risk-adjusted mean treatment costs of acute myocardial infarction for four of the seven countries in the EuroHOPE project, namely, Finland, Hungary, Norway, and Sweden. The outcome of the comparison depends on the time perspective as well as on the particular resource use indicator. We argue that these complementary indicators add to our understanding of the variation in resource use across countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Anorectal anomalies are atresias or stenoses of the anal canal and rectum with or without fistulous connections with the bladder, urethra, perineum, or vestibule. The aim of this study was to describe the epidemiology of anorectal anomalies, including associated anomalies, prevalence, and temporal trends. METHODS Anorectal anomalies occurring in late miscarriages (>20 gestation weeks), terminations of pregnancy for fetal anomaly (any gestation), stillbirths (≥24 gestation weeks) and live births, delivered from 1985 to 2010, notified to the Northern Congenital Abnormality Survey (NorCAS) were included in this population-based case series. RESULTS There were 278 cases among 892,194 live births. Twenty (7.2%) cases occurred in twin pregnancies and 24 (8.7%) with chromosomal anomalies/genetic syndromes were excluded. There were 234 cases (total prevalence = 2.7, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.4, 3.1 per 10,000 live and stillbirths). There was no evidence of a trend in prevalence over time (Chi2 test for trend: p = 0.789). There was a male predominance (70.9%). Of the 234 cases, 167 (71.4%) were live born, two (0.9%) were late miscarriages, seven (3.0%) were stillbirths, and 58 (24.8%) were terminations of pregnancy for fetal anomaly. There was no significant association with maternal age at delivery ( p = 0.095). 7.2% of isolated cases (cases with no other congenital anomalies) were diagnosed prenatally. CONCLUSION The prevalence of anorectal anomalies in this study is comparable to other case series. There was no evidence of a temporal increase in prevalence. We confirmed a male predominance of anorectal anomalies and no significant association with maternal age. Birth Defects Research (Part A) 103:597-602, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives/Hypothesis To estimate the risk of surgically treated middle ear cholesteatoma in individuals with a nonsyndromic orofacial cleft and in their siblings compared with the general population. Study Design Historical cohort study. Methods Using the unique civil registration number for linkage, data from three national registers were used for the Danish 1936-2009 birth cohorts. Hazard ratios (HRs) were estimated with Cox regression analyses using age as the underlying time variable. Individuals were followed from January 1, 1977 until time of surgically treated cholesteatoma, and censored at emigration, death, or end of follow-up (December 31, 2010). Results A total of 8,593 individuals with nonsyndromic orofacial cleft and 6,989 siblings were identified, undergoing 201 and 21 first-time cholesteatoma surgeries, respectively. A 5% random sample of the Danish population comprising 249,708 persons without an orofacial cleft was created, and 175,724 siblings to these persons were identified. These controls underwent 485 and 332 first-time cholesteatoma surgeries, respectively. For individuals with cleft lip and palate the HR for cholesteatoma surgery was 14 (95% confidence interval [CI], 12-18) and for individuals with cleft palate the HR was 20 (95% CI, 16-24) when compared with the random sample. In siblings of individuals with cleft palate, the HR for cholesteatoma surgery was 2.1 (95% CI, 1.1-4.1) when compared with siblings of the random sample. Conclusions A 20-fold increase in the risk of cholesteatoma was found in individuals with cleft palate, whereas cleft lip did not pose a risk of cholesteatoma. Furthermore, the study indicates an increased risk of cholesteatoma in unaffected siblings of individuals with cleft palate. Level of Evidence 2b Laryngoscope, 125:1225-1229, 2015 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and purpose The incidence of hospitalizations, treatment and case fatality of ischaemic stroke were assessed utilizing a comprehensive multinational database to attempt to compare the healthcare systems in six European countries, aiming also to identify the limitations and make suggestions for future improvements in the between-country comparisons. Methods National registers of hospital discharges for ischaemic stroke identified by International Classification of Diseases codes 433-434 ( ICD-9) and code I63 ( ICD-10), medication purchases and mortality were linked at the patient level in each of the participating countries and regions: Finland, Hungary, Italy, the Netherlands, Scotland and Sweden. Patients with an index admission in 2007 were followed for 1 year. Results In all, 64 170 patients with a disease code for ischaemic stroke were identified. The number of patients registered per 100 000 European standard population ranged from 77 in Scotland to 407 in Hungary. Large differences were observed in medication use. The age- and sex-adjusted all-cause case fatality amongst hospitalized patients at 1 year from stroke was highest in Hungary at 31.0% (95% confidence interval 30.5-31.5). Regional differences in age- and sex-adjusted 1-year case fatality within countries were largest in Hungary (range 23.6%-37.6%) and smallest in the Netherlands (20.5%-27.3%). Conclusions It is feasible to link population-wide register data amongst European countries to describe incidence of hospitalizations, treatment patterns and case fatality of ischaemic stroke on a national level. However, the coverage and validity of administrative register data for ischaemic stroke should be developed further, and population-based and clinical stroke registers should be created to allow better control of case mix. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objectives In the past two decades, an increasing number of nationwide, Swedish Healthcare Quality Registries ( QRs) focusing on specific disorders have been initiated, mostly by physicians. Here, we describe the purpose, organization, variables, coverage and completeness of 103 Swedish QRs. Methods From March to September 2013, we examined the 2012 applications of 103 QRs to the Swedish Association of Local Authorities and Regions ( SALAR) and also studied the annual reports from the same QRs. After initial data abstraction, the coordinator of each QR was contacted at least twice between June and October 2013 and asked to confirm the accuracy of the data retrieved from the applications and reports. Results About 60% of the QRs covered ≥80% of their target population (completeness). Data recorded in Swedish QRs include aspects of disease management (diagnosis, clinical characteristics, treatment and lead times). In addition, some QRs retrieve data on self-reported quality of life ( EQ5D, SF-36 and disease-specific measures), lifestyle (smoking) and general health status (World Health Organization performance status, body mass index and blood pressure). Conclusion Detailed clinical data available in Swedish QRs complement information from government-administered registries and provide an important source not only for assessment and development of quality of care but also for research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Anaemia during pregnancy is an important public health problem. We investigated whether the association between maternal anaemia during pregnancy and adverse perinatal outcomes differed between nulliparous and multiparous women. Methods A retrospective population-based cohort study was conducted using data on all singleton births ( n = 290 662) recorded in the Finnish Medical Birth Register during 2006-10. Maternal anaemia was defined as a maternal haemoglobin level of <100 g/L). Adverse perinatal outcomes that were examined included preterm delivery (<37 weeks), small-for-gestational age ( SGA, <2 standard deviation), admission to neonatal intensive care, stillbirth, early neonatal death, and major congenital anomalies. An association between anaemia and adverse outcomes was assessed by logistic regression analysis. Results The prevalence of anaemia during pregnancy was 2.5% among nulliparous women and 2.3% among multiparous women. Among nulliparous women, anaemia was not associated with adverse perinatal outcomes. Among multiparous women, anaemia was associated with preterm delivery (adjusted odds ratio [ aOR] 1.32, [95% CI 1.14, 1.53]), SGA ( aOR 1.27, [95% CI 1.04, 1.55]), and admission to neonatal intensive care ( aOR 1.23, [95% CI 1.10, 1.38]); there was a trend towards increased odds of major congenital anomalies ( aOR 1.15, [95% CI 0.99, 1.34]). Conclusions These data underscore that maternal anaemia is associated with several adverse perinatal outcomes. This association was, however, confined to multiparous women. Future research should explore in detail the timing of anaemia in these associations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]