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Background: Neonates undergo numerous painful procedures throughout their hospitalization. Repeated procedural pain may cause adverse long-term effects. Glucose as a non-pharmacological analgesia, is used for neonate pain management. In this study, potential mechanism of attenuate pain induced by glucose in neurodevelopment effect of neonate pain stimulus was investigated., Methods: Neonatal rats to perform a repetitive injury model and glucose intervention model in the postnatal day 0-7(P0-7). Pain thresholds were measured by von Frey test weekly. The puberty behavioral outcome, tissue loss and protein expression in hippocampus were analyzed., Results: Oral administration of glucose after repeated pain stimulation can maintain the hippocampal structure in, and reduce the expressions of corticotropin releasing factor (CFR) and glucocorticoid receptor (GR), therefore, resulted in long-term threshold of pain and cognitive improvement., Conclusion: Exposure to neonatal repeated procedural pain causes persistent mechanical hypersensitivity and the dysfunction of spatial memory retention at puberty. In addition, glucose can relieve these adverse effects, possibly via decreasing CRF/GR levels to change the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare no competing interests., (Copyright © 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Pain is a prevalent symptom among cancer patients and survivors. Psychoactive substance use (PSU) is associated with both the presence and severity of pain. However, little is known about this association in the context of cancer. The primary objective was to compare the prevalence of PSU and its relationship with pain during and after cancer. PSU was defined as the use of nonmedication substances (alcohol, tobacco, e-cigarettes, cannabidiol, and cannabis), with frequency categorized as at least yearly, monthly, weekly, or daily. Secondary objectives aimed to explore the relationships between PSU and pain characteristics, health-related quality of life, anxiety, depression, deprivation, and individual characteristics. Among the 1041 individuals included, pain prevalence was 44.7% (95% confidence interval [CI] 41.6%-47.8%). The overall prevalence of PSU at least monthly was 67.0% (95% CI 64.0%-69.8%). The proportions of chronic and neuropathic pains were higher for at least monthly use of cannabidiol compared to nonuse (70.0% vs. 39.3% and 55.7% vs. 28.1%, p < .001). In multivariate analysis, the monthly uses of tobacco and cannabidiol were higher in painful individuals than in nonpainful ones (odds ratio: 2.85 [95% CI 1.22-6.64] and 3.76 [95% CI 1.13-12.44], p < .05). From the point of view of the patient care, the study underscores the need for physicians to prioritize smoking cessation and pay attention to the use of cannabidiol during and after cancer., (© 2024 UICC.)

Aim: Pain and anxiety levels in palliative care patients negatively impact their quality of life, highlighting the need for research on non-pharmacological methods. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of music and aromatherapy interventions on pain, anxiety, and stress levels in these patients., Material and Methods: The research was designed as a single-blind, four-group, randomized controlled trial. The sample consisted of 88 patients hospitalized in a palliative care center (receiving palliative care services with terminal or advanced diseases). Patients were randomly assigned to four groups (n = 22, music, aromatherapy, music and aromatherapy, and control group). Patients in the experimental groups received the intervention to which they were assigned for 20 min each day for three consecutive days: music, aromatherapy, or music accompanied by aromatherapy. No intervention was applied to the control group. The patients' levels of pain, anxiety, and stress were assessed before and after the intervention using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), the Facial Anxiety Scale (FAS), and the Distress Thermometer., Results: No significant differences were found in the demographic characteristics of the groups (p > 0.05). The Wilcoxon Signed-Rank and Kruskal-Wallis tests indicated statistically significant differences in pre- and post-intervention scores for VAS, FAS, and Distress across all experimental groups on all follow-up days (p < 0.05)., Conclusion: Implementing music, aromatherapy, and their combination effectively reduced pain, anxiety, and stress levels in palliative care patients, suggesting these non-pharmacological interventions can improve their quality of life., Trial Registration: ClinicalTrails.gov (Registration number: NCT06024954) at 05-SEP-2024., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.)

Objective: To examine the relationship between C-reactive protein (CRP) and knee pain, and further explore whether this association is mediated by obesity., Methods: The population was derived from 1999 to 2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Logistic regression was used to analyze the relationship between CRP and knee pain in three different models, and the linear trend was analyzed. A restricted cubic spline model to assess the nonlinear dose-response relationship between CRP and knee pain. Mediation analyses were used to assess the potential mediating role of obesity. Subgroup analyses and sensitivity analyses were performed to ensure robustness., Results: Compared with adults with lower CRP (first quartile), those with higher CRP had higher risks of knee pain (odds ratio 1.39, 95% confidence interval 1.12-1.72 in third quartile; 1.56, 1.25-1.95 in fourth quartile) after adjusting for covariates (except body mass index [BMI]), and the proportion mediated by BMI was 76.10% (p < .001). BMI and CRP were linear dose-response correlated with knee pain. The odds ratio for those with obesity compared with normal to knee pain was 2.27 (1.42-3.65) in the first quartile of CRP, 1.99 (1.38-2.86) in the second, 2.15 (1.38-3.33) in the third, and 2.92 (1.72-4.97) in the fourth., Conclusion: Obesity mediated the systemic inflammation results in knee pain in US adults. Moreover, higher BMI was associated with higher knee pain risk in different degree CRP subgroups, supporting an important role of weight loss in reducing knee pain caused by systemic inflammation., (© 2024 The Author(s). Immunity, Inflammation and Disease published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Background: Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) affects women of all ages and is one of the most common reasons for referral to a gynaecological clinic. Operative hysteroscopic procedures allow for a see-and-treat approach to AUB, and these techniques have been shown to be feasible and acceptable in the outpatient setting., Objective: To assess if there is an increase in pain scores for women who are undergoing an operative hysteroscopic procedure with Myosure LITE® (Hologic; mechanical hysteroscopic tissue removal system) compared to outpatient diagnostic hysteroscopy alone., Study Design: A prospective cohort study was performed. All participants attending the outpatient hysteroscopy clinic at Mercy Hospital for Women completed a pre-and post-procedure questionnaire. This included a visual analogue scale (VAS) for any pre-existing pain, anticipated pain, and actual pain experienced during procedure. Factors influencing overall satisfaction and willingness to attend again were also assessed. Data was entered into RedCap® for analysis. A difference in VAS of 10 mm or more was considered clinically significant. An alpha of p < 0.05 was assigned for statistical significance., Results: Between February 2020 and November 2022, 208 women underwent outpatient diagnostic hysteroscopy followed by an operative hysteroscopy with MyoSure®. To allow for standardisation of analgesia, only participants who had a cervical block before their Myosure® procedure were included for analysis (n = 111). There was statistical evidence (t(111) = 2.36, p = 0.02) of a lower mean VAS pain score for operative Myosure (36.5 mm, 95 % CI: 31.1-41.8 mm) compared to outpatient diagnostic hysteroscopy (44.1 mm, 95 % CI: 39.0-49.2 mm). The mean difference in VAS pain score was estimated as 7.7 mm (95 % CI: 1.2-14.1 mm) lower for Myosure compared to hysteroscopy. Given the threshold for clinical significance was considered as 10 mm difference in VAS, the variance in pain scores is under the likely clinically significant range. There was no significant difference in pain scores for diagnostic hysteroscopy with or without paracervical block (mean difference = 1.42; 95 % CI: -6.35 to 9.20). There was no association between pre-existing pain, and actual pain for hysteroscopy, or Myosure (p = 0.997 and p = 0.065 respectively). The anticipated pain score was weakly associated with actual pain during the operative Myosure procedure (p = 0.02), and with outpatient diagnostic hysteroscopy (p = 0.019)., Conclusion: Outpatient hysteroscopy procedures are generally well tolerated. The pain experience with operative Myosure was less than that reported during the diagnostic hysteroscopy by the same patient although this is unlikely of clinical significance. Importantly, Myosure was not more painful than the initial diagnostic procedure, and most patients were satisfied with the outcome and would choose to have the procedure again in an outpatient setting. This is in keeping with other studies which have shown a high degree of patient tolerance and satisfaction with this approach., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare the following financial interests/personal relationships which may be considered as potential competing interests: Dr Samantha Mooney, Dr Lenore Ellett and Dr Emma Readman have completed paid consultancy work with Hologic. The other authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest to disclose., (Crown Copyright © 2024. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To assess the efficacy and safety of Sanjie Analgesic Capsule (SAC) in Chinese patients with endometriosis-associated pain., Methods: This was a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial conducted at 15 centers between November 2013 and July 2017 in China. Eligible 323 patients with endometriosis were randomized at a 3:1 ratio to the SAC group (241 cases) and placebo group (82 cases) by stratified block randomization. Patients in the SAC or placebo groups were given SAC or placebo 1.6 g 3 times per day, orally, respectively since the first day of menstruation for 3 consecutive menstrual cycles. The primary endpoint was clinical response to dysmenorrhea evaluated using a 10-point Visual Analogue Scale at 3 and 6 months. The secondary endpoint was the pain score evaluated by VAS (chronic pelvic pain, defecation pain, and dyspareunia) at 3 and 6 months, and the pain recurrence rate at 6 months. Adverse events (AEs) were recorded during the study., Results: A total of 241 women were included in the SAC group, and 82 were in the placebo group. Among these women, 217 (90.0%) and 71 (86.6%) completed the intervention, respectively. At 3 months, overall response rate (ORR) was significantly higher in women administered SAC (80.1%) compared with those who received a placebo (30.5%, P<0.01). Six months after treatment, the ORR for dysmenorrhea was 62.7% in the SAC group and 31.7% in the placebo group (P<0.01). Chronic pelvic pain and defecation pain were significantly improved by SAC compared with placebo (both P<0.05). The incidence rates of total AEs events in the SAC and placebo groups were 6.6% and 9.8%, respectively, and no significant difference was shown between the two groups (P=0.339)., Conclusion: SAC is well-tolerated and may improve dysmenorrhea in women with endometriosis-associated pain. (Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, No. NCT02031523)., (© 2024. The Chinese Journal of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine Press and Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.)

Objective: Despite the high prevalence, mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI)-induced chronic headache and cognitive deficits are poorly understood and lack effective treatments. Low-dose interleukin-2 (LD-IL-2) treatment soon after mTBI or overexpressing IL-2 in brain astrocytes prior to injury protects mice from developing post-traumatic headache (PTH)-related behaviors and cognitive decline. The present study addresses a clinically relevant knowledge gap: whether LD-IL-2 treatment long after the initial injury is still effective for chronic PTH and cognitive deficits., Methods: mTBI was induced by a noninvasive closed-head weight drop method. LD-IL-2 was administered 4-6 weeks post-mTBI to assess its effects on chronic PTH-related facial mechanical hypersensitivity as well as mTBI-induced impairment in novel object recognition and object location tests. Endogenous regulatory T (Treg) cells were depleted to investigate the mechanism of action of LD-IL-2., Results: Delayed LD-IL-2 treatment abolished chronic PTH-related behaviors. It also completely reversed mTBI-induced cognitive impairment in both male and female mice. Treg cell depletion not only prolonged PTH-related behaviors but also abolished the effects of LD-IL-2. Interestingly, LD-IL-2 treatment significantly increased the number of Treg cells in dura but not in brain tissues., Interpretation: These results suggest that the beneficial effects of LD-IL-2 treatment are mediated through the expansion of meningeal Treg cells. Collectively, our study identifies Treg as a cellular target and LD-IL-2 as a promising therapy for both chronic PTH and mTBI-induced cognitive impairment for both males and females, with a wide therapeutic time window and the potential of reducing polypharmacy in mTBI treatment. ANN NEUROL 2024;96:508-525., (© 2024 American Neurological Association.)

Introduction: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by symmetric polyarthritis. RA is routinely treated by various systemic drugs; on the other hand, administration of intra-articular corticosteroids or different types of synovectomies can be used in case of systemic medication's failure. Chemical, radio isotopic, and surgical synovectomies are being used as therapeutic options for chronic synovitis to improve joint function. Chemical synovectomy is not well tolerated, and the long-term response is relatively low. Surgical synovectomy has a better success rate, but it recommends higher expenses. In radiation synovectomy, radioactive labeled particles are applied directly in the articular cavity, followed by homogeneous distribution in joint. Next, the radioactive particles are transported in the depth of synovia and phagocytized by inflammatory cells. Finally, the radiation leads to fibrosis and sclerosis of formerly inflamed synovial membrane; thus, it stops the inflammation and reduces the symptoms. It has a success rate of 40-100% and its effect can be similar to surgical synovectomy., Materials and Methods: Thirty-one patients with resistant monoarthritis of the knee were enrolled in this study. One millicurie of phosphorus-32 was injected into patients' knee via US guide. Saline was injected afterwards to prevent leakage. Direct pressure was performed after removing the needle and the knee was flexed slowly to ensure homogenous distribution and fixed with a splint for 1 to 2 weeks. Patients were followed up after 2 weeks, 1 month, 2 months, and 6 months. The following variables were assessed by the treating rheumatologist: patients' pain, joint tenderness, effusion, and ROM. At the time of injection and after the first week, patients were investigated for any complication including infection, necrosis, pain, and swelling. The effect of clinical characteristics and demographic data on existing complications and the changes of pain, joint tenderness, effusion, and ROM was assessed., Results: Thirty-one patients with the mean age of 54.5 ± 12.2 years and the mean disease duration of 12 ± 6.5 years were enrolled in this study. Mean DAS-28 ESR score for our patients was 4 ± 0.7. The pain, effusion, and reduced ROM were decreased significantly after all follow-up intervals. Knee tenderness was not affected in the first 2 weeks, but it was reduced significantly after 1, 2, and 6 months. No serious complications like infection and necrosis were reported through our study. 51.6% and 54.8% of our patients reported pain and swelling in the administration site. Furthermore, 19.4% and 16.1% of patients reported deterioration of pain and effusion in the first week of injection., Conclusion: In our study, we demonstrated that pain, tenderness, effusion, and ROM are improved after radiation synovectomy with phosphorus-32. We also showed that there was no serious adverse effect like infection and necrosis. However, more than half of our patients experienced pain and swelling of injection site at the time of administration. Key points • We demonstrated the efficacy of radiation synovectomy as a medication for monoarthritis. • The results of our study can lead to a bigger clinical trial to assess the benefits and adverse effects of radiation synovectomy in comparison to treatment with local or systemic corticosteroids., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to International League of Associations for Rheumatology (ILAR).)

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) and associated pain are prevalent adverse effects of pediatric cancer treatment, significantly affecting the patient's quality of life. Their impact and risk factors have yet to be assessed in our country. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and clinical characteristics of CIPN, as well as to explore associations with patient- and treatment-related variables, within a cohort of Argentinean pediatric oncology patients. Sixty-six patients diagnosed with malignant hematopoietic tumors and receiving the neurotoxic agent vincristine were included in this observational study. Variables analyzed included age, gender, anthropometric measurements, tumor type, chemotherapy treatment, development of pain and other symptoms, severity, and analgesic treatment. The study population consisted of 39 boys and 27 girls. Most patients received two or three neurotoxic drugs. Symptoms consistent with CIPN were identified in 15 children, reflecting a prevalence of 23%. The main symptom was pain in the lower limbs, with some patients reporting jaw or generalized body pain. Pain was categorized as moderate or severe in 60% and 27% of cases, respectively. NSAIDs, anticonvulsants, and/or opioids were prescribed. Among the patient- and treatment-related variables analyzed as potential risk factors, the use of vincristine in conjunction with cytarabine and the administration of a higher number of neurotoxic drugs demonstrated significant association with the development of CIPN., Conclusions: Combination therapy stands out as a risk factor for clinical CIPN. The high prevalence of moderate/severe pain underscores the importance of close vigilance given its potential to compromise the patient's overall well-being., What Is Known: • Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a frequent adverse effect and dose-limiting factor in pediatric cancer treatment. • Prevalence varies among regions and risk factors are still under study., What Is New: • Prevalence of symptomatic CIPN is 23% among pediatric patients undergoing treatment for hematopoietic tumors in a referral hospital in Argentina. Most patients report moderate or severe pain. • Combining vincristine with cytarabine and using a higher number of neurotoxic drugs in combination therapies exhibit significant association with the development of CIPN-related symptoms., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.)

Competing Interests: The authors report no conflicts of interest.

Purpose of Review: This focused, narrative review mostly describes our team's investigations into the potential inflammatory mechanisms that contribute to the development of cancer-related gastrointestinal (GI) mucositis and its associated symptoms. This review summarizes details of our clinical and preclinical findings to test the role of inflammation in the development and occurrence of these cancer-related conditions., Recent Findings: GI mucositis (GIM) is a common, distressing condition reported by cancer patients. GIM is often clustered with other behaviors including fatigue, pain, anorexia, depression, and diarrhea. It is hypothesized that there is a common biologic mechanism underpinning this symptom cluster. Our multi-platform investigations revealed that GIM and its associated cluster of behaviors may be triggered by local inflammation spreading systemically causing pro-inflammatory-mediated toxicities, leading to alterations in immune, metabolic, and nervous system functions and activities. For example, behavioral toxicities related to local irradiation for non-metastatic cancer may be triggered by mGluR5 activation influencing prolonged T cell as well as NF-κB transcription factor activities. Thus, interventions targeting inflammation and associated pathways may be a reasonable strategy to alleviate GIM and its symptom cluster., Summary: GIM may be a sign of a broader systemic inflammatory response triggered by cancer or its treatment. Addressing GIM and its associated symptoms primarily involves supportive care strategies focused on relieving symptoms, promoting healing, and preventing complications., (Copyright © 2024 The Author(s). Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.)

Background: Pain is routinely measured on mechanically ventilated ICU patients. However, the tools used are not designed to discriminate between pain and non-pain discomfort, a distinction with therapeutic implications., Objectives: To evaluate whether clinical measurement tools can discern both pain and non-pain discomfort., Methods: A prospective observational cohort study was conducted in a General ICU at a tertiary Medical Center in Israel. The Behavior Pain Scale (BPS) and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) of Discomfort were simultaneously assessed by a researcher and bedside nurse on thirteen lightly sedated patients during 71 routine nursing interventions in lightly sedated, mechanically ventilated, adult patients. Patients were asked whether they were in pain due to these interventions., Results: Statistically significant increases from baseline during interventions were observed [median change: 1.00 (-1-5), 1.5(-4-8.5), p < 0.001] as measured by BPS and VAS Discomfort Scale, respectively. BPS scores ranged between 4 and 6 when the majority (53 %) of the patients replied that they had no pain but were interpreted by the clinicians as discomfort. Endotracheal suctioning caused the greatest increase in BPS and VAS, with no statistically significant differences in BPS and VAS Discomfort Scale scores whether patients reported or did not report pain. A BPS>6 had a higher sensitivity and specificity to reported pain (accuracy of 76 %) compared to a BPS of 4-6., Conclusions: Standard assessments are sensitive to pain caused by routine nursing care interventions. However, this study presents evidence that among lightly sedated ICU patients, moderate BPS scores could also measure non-pain discomfort. ICU nurses should be aware that signs of unpleasantness measured by a pain scale could reflect non-pain discomfort., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this manuscript, (Copyright © 2024. Published by Elsevier Inc.)

Purpose: In correlation with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), this study attempts to assess the effectiveness of the diagnostic of ultrasonography (US) features and shear wave elastography (SWE) in determining the different causes of heel pain., Materials and Methods: 55 heels with a mean age of 38.33 ± 10.8 were included in the study (10 control cases and 41 cases, 4 of which had bilateral heel pain). There were 23 female cases (56.1%) and 18 male cases (43.95%). Examinations using shear wave elastography (SWE) and ultrasound (US) were done in different positions. MRI and the obtained data were correlated., Results: When used to diagnose different heel pain causes, ultrasound demonstrated great sensitivity and specificity. SWE demonstrated a good correlation with MRI findings and enhanced the ultrasound's diagnostic precision in identifying plantar fasciitis early on (increased accuracy from 88.9 to 93.33% with 100% sensitivity and 83.3% specificity) and Achilles tendinopathy (increased accuracy from 88.9 to 97.8 with 94.7% sensitivity and 100% specificity)., Conclusion: In summary, we concluded that heel pain can be efficiently examined by both ultrasound (US) and shear wave elastography (SWE) with the former being used as the primary effective tool and the latter being done to increase diagnostic accuracy. We also concluded that SWE improved the ultrasound's diagnostic precision in identifying patients with early plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinopathy and showed a robust relationship with clinical outcomes, enhancing patient evaluation and follow-up., (© 2024. Società Italiana di Ultrasonologia in Medicina e Biologia (SIUMB).)

Reduced physical function caused by bone destruction, pain, anemia, infections, and weight loss is common in multiple myeloma (MM). Myeloma bone disease challenges physical exercise. Knowledge on the effects and safety of physical exercise in newly diagnosed patients with MM is limited. In a randomized, controlled trial, we studied the effect of a 10-week individualized physical exercise program on physical function, physical activity, lean body mass (LBM), bone mineral density (BMD), quality of life (QoL), and pain in patients newly diagnosed with MM. Lytic bone disease was assessed, and exercise was adjusted accordingly. Primary outcome: knee extension strength. Secondary outcomes: Six-Minute-Walk-Test, 30-s Sit-to-Stand-Test (SST), grip strength, level of physical activity, LBM, BMD, QoL, and pain. Measurements were conducted pre- and post-intervention, and after 6 and 12 months. We included 100 patients, 86 were evaluable; 44 in the intervention group (IG) and 42 in the control group (CG). No statistically significant differences between groups were observed. Knee extension strength declined in the IG (p = .02). SST, aerobic capacity, and global QoL improved in both groups. Pain decreased consistently in the IG regardless of pain outcome. No significant safety concerns of physical exercise in newly diagnosed patients with MM were observed., (© 2024 The Authors. European Journal of Haematology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Hyperglycemia and high adiposity are risk factors for pain in diabetes. To clarify these links with pain, the effects of a glucose load on sensory detection, pain sensitivity, conditioned pain modulation (primary aims), and autonomic and endothelial functions (secondary aims) were examined in 64 pain-free participants: 22 with normal adiposity (determined by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry), 29 with high adiposity, and 13 with combined high adiposity and elevated glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c; including prediabetes and type 2 diabetes). Participants ingested either 37.5 g glucose or 200 mg sucralose (taste-matched) in the first session and crossed over to the other substance in the second session 1 month later. At baseline, painful temple cooling (the conditioning stimulus) inhibited pressure- and heat-pain in the ipsilateral arm (the test stimuli) immediately after cooling ceased (partial η 2 's > .32). Glucose ingestion weakened pressure-pain inhibition irrespective of HbA1c levels (partial η 2 = .11). However, a larger reduction in pressure-pain inhibition after ingesting glucose was associated with a higher waist/hip ratio (r = .31), suggesting a role of central obesity. Heat-pain inhibition was absent at baseline in unmedicated participants with elevated HbA1c, and these participants reported more occlusion-induced pain after ingesting glucose (partial η 2 's > .17). Glucose ingestion interfered with parasympathetic activity in all participants (partial η 2 = .11) but did not affect endothelial function (measured by reactive hyperemia) or alter other sensations (eg, feet vibration detection). The disruptive effect of hyperglycemia on conditioned pain modulation increases in line with central obesity, which might facilitate pain in diabetes. PERSPECTIVE: Ingesting 37.5 g glucose (approximately 350 mL soft drink) interfered with pain modulation in pain-free adults with normal adiposity or with combined high adiposity and HbA1c levels. The interference was stronger alongside increasing central obesity, suggesting that controlling blood glucose and body fat mass might help preserve pain modulation., (Copyright © 2024 United States Association for the Study of Pain, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

While over 40 neonatal pain assessment scales have been published, owing to a lack of consensus and standardized metrics, there are more than 100 assessment indicators with varying descriptors and quality differences. This study aims to reach a consensus on optimal and comprehensive variables for neonatal pain assessment, leading to the development of a multidimensional neonatal pain response variable set. This study consisted of three phases: (1) A literature review was conducted to identify influencing factors and assessment indicators of neonatal pain response. (2) Panel meetings involving neonatal healthcare professionals evaluated and screened factors and indicators to develop an initial draft of the variable set. (3) Through two rounds of Delphi study achieved consensus, and determined the neonatal pain response variable set. Through a literature review and a panel meeting, the identified factors and indicators were categorized into contextual, physiological, and behavioral variables, forming an initial draft of the variable set. Sixteen professionals participated in two rounds of the Delphi study, with response rates exceeding 70%, and authority coefficients surpassing 0.7 in both rounds. The final iteration of the variable set includes 9 contextual variables, 2 physiological variables, and 5 behavioral variables.   Conclusion: Neonatal pain response variable set developed in this study is scientific, comprehensive, and multidimensional, aligning with the characteristics of neonatal pain response and clinically applicable. The inclusion of contextual variables enhances the ability to confront the complexity of clinical environments and individual differences. It can provide a practical and theoretical basis for clinical research on neonatal pain assessment. What is Known: • Neonatal pain assessment relies on scales used by healthcare professionals currently. But there is no "gold standard" for neonatal pain assessment. • While over 40 neonatal pain assessment scales have been published, owing to a lack of consensus and standardized metrics, there are more than 100 assessment indicators with varying descriptors and quality differences. Most of scales overlook the clinical environment complexity individual differences in pain responses, diminishing the accuracy and applicability. What is New: • In addition to the commonly used physiological and behavioral variables in the scales, we have incorporated contextual variables to better address the complexity of clinical environments and individual differences in pain responses. • Through an evidence-based approach, developed a neonatal pain response variable set comprising 9 contextual variables, 2 physiological variables, and 5 behavioral variables., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Objectives: To evaluate the efficacy of pain management of 1 ml of 24% sucrose given orally compared to routine care given one minute before vaccination for reduction of pain., Methods: This double-blind randomized controlled trial included term neonates visiting Pediatric OPD for immunization. Neonates were randomly assigned into two groups (Group A- Sucrose, Group B- Swaddling). Commercially available sucrose solution (StayHappi solution 24%) was given in a dose of 1 ml to the neonates. Video recording of the neonate's facial expression was done during the procedure. Duration of cry, latency of onset of cry as well Modified Neonatal Facial Coding Score (MFCS) were the outcome variables., Results: The mean (SD) of birth weight and gestational age was 2729 (321.6) g and 38.24 (0.84) d, respectively. Analysis showed significant difference in total MFCS across the groups (P <0.001). Total MFCS was significantly lower in sucrose group [4.88 (1.07) vs. 7.17 (0.95)]. The duration of cry (in seconds) was also found to be significantly lower in sucrose group., Conclusions: Administration of 1 ml 24% sucrose one minute prior to immunization is efficacious in pain management during injectable immunization., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Dr. K C Chaudhuri Foundation.)

This population-based study investigated the prevalence of de novo, multitype, post-coronavirus disease (COVID) pain and its associated risk factors in previously hospitalized coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) survivors. The nationwide, cross-sectional study included a cohort of Danish residents previously hospitalized due to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 infection between March 2020 and December 2021. Demographic data, preexisting medical comorbidities, previous pain-related symptoms, medication use for pain management, pain intensity (4-point scale), and development of de novo, multitype, post-COVID pain were collected by a self-reported survey distributed via e-Boks (a secured national digital mail system used in Denmark to provide public information to residents). The sample comprised 4,712 previously hospitalized COVID-19 survivors (48.6% women, mean age: 60.1 ± 15.6 years). At the time of the study (21 ± 6 months after hospitalization), 18.0% (847) reported the presence of de novo, multitype, post-COVID pain, and 38.6% of any pain. A multivariate analysis revealed that female sex (Odds Ratio (OR) 1.711, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 1.444-2.023), higher body mass index (OR 1.032, 95% CI 1.019-1.045), intensive care unit admission (OR 1.597, 95% CI 1.324-1.926), previous history of whiplash (OR 2.471, 95% CI 1.004-6.081), anxiety (OR 3.626, 95% CI 1.335-9.708), and younger age (OR .982, 95% CI .976-.987) were factors associated with development of de novo, multitype, post-COVID pain. High income (OR .635, 95% CI .494-.817) and high educational level (OR .774, 95% CI .609-.984) were protective factors. In conclusion, multitype pain as a de novo post-COVID symptom was present in 18.0% of previously hospitalized COVID-19 survivors more than 1 year after hospital discharge and as such can be considered as adding to the global burden of chronic pain. PERSPECTIVE: The study investigates the prevalence of de novo, multitype, post-COVID pain in previously hospitalized COVID-19 survivors. This article presents potential risk factors associated with developing new pain symptoms. The results will contribute to understanding the possibility of predicting postinfectious pain from COVID-19 for future analysis., (Copyright © 2024 United States Association for the Study of Pain, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Previous studies on pain experiences in retired contract sport athletes have been cross-sectional, leaving gaps in our understanding of the evolution of pain interference (PI) and factors that influence trajectories decades after sport discontinuation. This study investigated the longitudinal course of PI in former male National Football League (NFL) players over a 19-year period following sport discontinuation and examined factors influencing overall levels and trajectories of PI. Former NFL players completed health surveys in 2001, 2010, and 2019, with PI ratings measured using the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (2001 and 2010) and the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (2019). Unconditional latent growth curve models analyzed overall PI severity and trajectories. Conditional latent growth curve models explored the influence of musculoskeletal injuries, osteoarthritis (OA), and depression diagnosis on PI. Over 19 years (N = 338; mean age = 48.96 ± 9.35), PI significantly increased (slope = .179, P < .001; mean Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System PI t-scores 2001 = 54.19, 2010 = 54.64, 2019 = 57.38). Cumulative musculoskeletal injuries (B = .092, P < .001) and baseline depression diagnosis (B = 4.463, P < .001) were associated with overall PI levels but not change over time. OA was significantly associated with overall PI levels (B = 6.536, P < .001) and trajectory (B = -.253, P < .001); those endorsing OA in 2001 had lower PI increases over 19 years. The body region of injury and level of play during injuries mirrored overall injury effects. PI mildly increased over 19 years, with multiple factors independently influencing overall PI levels. Enhancing former contact sport athletes' daily functionality may be achieved through holistic biopsychosocial interventions addressing musculoskeletal injuries, OA, and depression. Future research should identify factors influencing elevated trajectories of long-term PI post-sport discontinuation. PERSPECTIVE: This study assessed PI in former NFL athletes over 2 decades, revealing notable interindividual variability in trajectories over time. Musculoskeletal injuries, depression, and OA correlated with overall PI. Prevention and intervention in these 3 areas present the potential to improve disruptions in daily living due to pain in former athletes., Competing Interests: Disclosures This study (NFL-LONG) was funded by the National Football League (NFL). Dr. Brett reports grants from the National Institute on Aging and the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, and honoraria for conference presentations. Dr. Chandran discloses research funding from the National Collegiate Athletic Association as the Director of the NCAA Injury Surveillance Program, and separately from the Atlantic Coast Conference Center for Research on Intercollegiate Athletics, and the University of North Carolina Translational and Clinical Sciences Institute; he also discloses receiving honoraria from the Sports Neuropsychological Society as well as the American Medical Society for Sports Medicine. Dr. Kerr reports grants from the National Institutes of Health, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the National Football League. Dr. Lempke reports grants from the Eastern Athletic Trainers’ Association, National Athletic Trainers’ Association, and VALD. Dr. Walton reports grant funding from the U.S. Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs, and unpaid work on projects funded by the National Collegiate Athletic Association, and reports honoraria for conference presentations from the National Athletic Trainers’ Association. Dr. DeFreese reports grants from the Atlantic Coast Conference and the Association for Applied Sport Psychology. Dr. Echemendia is a paid consultant for the National Hockey League and co-chair of the National Hockey League/National Hockey League Players Association Concussion Subcommittee and Major League Soccer, and provides testimony in matters related to mTBI. Dr. Guskiewicz reports compensation from the National Collegiate Athletic Association for other services and grants from Boston Children's Hospital (sub-award from the National Football League). Dr. Meehan receives royalties from ABC-Clio Publishing, Springer International, and Wolters Kluwer. His research is funded by philanthropic support from the National Hockey League Alumni Association through the Corey C. Griffin Pro-Am Tournament and a grant from the National Football League. Dr. McCrea reports researching funding for the Medical College of Wisconsin from the National Institutes of Health, Department of Defense, Department of Veterans Affairs, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Football League, National Collegiate Athletic Association, and Abbott Laboratories. He previously served as a consultant to Neurotrauma Sciences, Inc and is a clinical consultant to the Green Bay Packers professional football club. He also reports honoria and travel support for professional speaking engagements. Dr. Mannix reports grants from the U.S. Department of Defense, the NFL Foundation, and the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke., (Copyright © 2024 United States Association for the Study of Pain, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Soft tissue calcifications frequently cause debilitating pain and functional impairments, considerably affecting patients' quality of life. As they are rare entities, evidence remains sparse, especially regarding treatment effectiveness and recurrence rates. While both pharmacological and surgical treatments may alleviate symptoms, complete resection is currently believed to prevent long-term recurrence of deposits. To improve understanding and raise awareness for soft tissue calcifications, the goal of this study was to review the current state of treatment and to compare benefits and possibilities of flap reconstruction versus simple excision in improving quality of life. Furthermore, we include a successful case report of complete resolution of symptoms following quadruple perforator flap reconstruction. By systematic literature review, studies published in MEDLINE between 1980 and 2024 reporting on surgical treatment and outcome of soft tissue calcifications were included, in addition to a detailed description of our case report. A total of 53 studies reporting on 197 patients with soft tissue calcifications were included. Simple surgical excision was the most commonly (85.9%) employed procedure, demonstrating a substantial recurrence rate of 13.3%. In contrast, no patients who underwent radical excision experienced recurrence. Dermal matrix grafts and flap reconstruction were successfully used in patients requiring substantial tissue coverage, highlighting their value in complex defect reconstruction following radical excision. The combination of complete surgical resection and flap reconstruction reduces recurrence rates and improves postoperative outcomes and quality of life of these patients, supporting early radical surgical intervention as the gold standard treatment for soft tissue calcifications., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Objectives: We have previously reported using gene-deficient mice that the interleukin (IL)-23p19 subunit is required for the development of innate immune-driven arthritic pain and disease. We aimed to explore here, using a number of in vivo approaches, how the IL-23p19 subunit can mechanistically control arthritic pain and disease in a T- and B- lymphocyte-independent manner., Methods: We used the zymosan-induced arthritis (ZIA) model in wild-type and Il23p19 -/- mice, by a radiation chimera approach, and by single cell RNAseq and qPCR analyses, to identify the IL23p19-expressing and IL-23-responding cell type(s) in the inflamed joints. This model was also utilized to investigate the efficacy of IL-23p19 subunit blockade with a neutralizing monoclonal antibody (mAb). A novel IL-23-driven arthritis model was established, allowing the identification of putative downstream mediators of IL-23 in the control of pain and disease. Pain and arthritis were assessed by relative static weight distribution and histology, respectively., Results: We present evidence that (i) IL-23p19 + non-bone marrow-derived macrophages are required for the development of ZIA pain and disease, (ii) prophylactic and therapeutic blockade of the IL-23p19 subunit ameliorate ZIA pain and disease and (iii) systemically administered IL-23 can induce arthritic pain and disease in a manner dependent on TNF, GM-CSF, CCL17 and cyclooxygenase activity, but independently of lymphocytes, CGRP, NGF and substance P., Conclusions: The data presented should aid IL-23 targeting both in the choice of inflammatory disease to be treated and the design of clinical trials., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Neuroactive steroids (NASs) directly affect neuronal excitability. Despite their role in the nervous system is intimately linked to pain control, knowledge is currently limited. This study investigates the peripheral involvement of NASs in chronic ischemic pain by targeting the cytochrome P450 side-chain cleavage enzyme (P450scc). Using a rat model of hind limb thrombus-induced ischemic pain (TIIP), we observed an increase in P450scc expression in the ischemic hind paw skin. Inhibiting P450scc with intraplantar aminoglutethimide (AMG) administration from post-operative day 0 to 3 significantly reduced the development of mechanical allodynia. However, AMG administration from post-operative day 3 to 6 did not affect established mechanical allodynia. In addition, we explored the role of the peripheral sigma-1 receptor (Sig-1R) by co-administering PRE-084 (PRE), a Sig-1R agonist, with AMG. PRE reversed the analgesic effects of AMG during the induction phase. These findings indicate that inhibiting steroidogenesis with AMG alleviates peripheral ischemic pain during the induction phase via Sig-1Rs., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Identifying depression symptoms in patients with hip fractures and studying the relationship between depression and pain intensity and pain location in hip fracture patients is of great significance for disease recovery in hip fracture patients. This cohort study analyzed 5 wave data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study in 2011, 2013, 2015, 2018, and 2020, focusing on 1222 patients with hip fractures. The study utilized the CESD-10 Depression Scale to assess depressive symptoms in hip fracture patients and conducted analyses to explore the relationship between depression symptoms, pain, and pain intensity, including binary logistic regression and examination of interaction terms between pain variables and pain intensity in key body parts. Depression symptoms are strongly associated with pain intensity in hip fracture patients, particularly in key body areas. Severe pain significantly increases the risk of depressive symptoms. Moreover, absence of pain in other key body parts is linked to depressive symptoms. Multivariate analysis reveals that higher education levels, marriage, urban residence, and self-rated good health serve as protective factors against depression, while diabetes and heart disease pose significant risks for depressive symptoms in hip fracture patients. Hip fracture pain can induce discomfort and trigger depressive symptoms, showing varied trajectories among patients. Pain intensity predicts the course of depressive symptoms, emphasizing the importance of tailored pain management strategies including medication, physical therapy, and nonpharmacological interventions. Personalized rehabilitation and mental health plans should be designed based on individual patient needs and differences., Competing Interests: The authors have no conflicts of interest to disclose., (Copyright © 2024 the Author(s). Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.)

Background A curve-shaped compression paddle could reduce the pain experienced by some women at breast cancer screening. Purpose To compare curved and standard compression systems in terms of pain experience and image quality in mammography screening. Materials and Methods In this randomized controlled trial conducted between October 2021 and February 2022, participants screened at three screening sites in the Netherlands were randomized to either a curved-paddle or sham-paddle group. The sham paddle was a standard paddle that was presented as a new paddle. At a standard screening examination, one additional image was acquired with a curved or sham paddle. Pain was measured on a numerical rating scale (range, 0-10). Participants provided a pain score after compression with the standard and test paddles, resulting in two scores per participant. Differences in pain scores were compared between groups using analysis of covariance, adjusting for pain score after standard-paddle compression. Two radiographers and two radiologists performed unblinded paired comparisons of curved-paddle vs standard-paddle images, using standard image quality criteria (radiographers evaluated 1246 image pairs using 12 criteria; radiologists evaluated 320 image pairs using six criteria). The one-sample Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to determine if there was a significant preference for either paddle. Results In total, 2499 female participants (mean age, 61.6 years ± 7.1 [SD]) were studied; 1250 in the curved-paddle group and 1249 in the sham-paddle group. The mean pain score decreased by an additional 0.19 points in the curved-paddle group compared with the sham-paddle group (95% CI: 0.09, 0.28; P < .001). In terms of image quality, the observers showed no preference or a preference for the standard paddle. Decreased image contrast (range Bonferroni-corrected P values: P < .001 to P > .99) and visibility of structures were the main concerns for curved-paddle images. Conclusion The use of the curved paddle resulted in a minimal pain reduction during mammography breast compression but image quality was reduced. © RSNA, 2024 Supplemental material is available for this article.

Purpose: Pain is a common symptom following proximal femoral fractures (PFF), however, information on its treatment in terms of agents and type of use (scheduled vs. pro re nata [PRN]) is scarce. The main objective of this study was to examine pain medication regimens according to pain intensity following PFF. Furthermore, we explored the utilization of medication plans., Methods: The "ProFem"-study on healthcare provision, functional ability, and quality of life after PFF is a German population-based prospective cohort study based on statutory health insurance data and individually linked survey data from different time points including information on the currently used medication. This present analysis refers to the participants' baseline interviews (about 3 months following PFF) conducted from 2018 to 2019 in the participants' private surroundings., Results: The study population comprised 444 participants (mean age: 81.2 years, 71.0% female). Half of them reported high intensity pain, and the mean value for the EuroQol visual analogue scale was 50.8. Most commonly used analgesics were metamizole and tilidine/naloxone. Among participants with high intensity pain, 21.9% received only PRN pain medication and 17.2% no pain medication at all. Overall, 61.5% of participants presented any (printed) medication plan and only 25.2% a "federal standardized medication plan" (BMP)., Conclusion: As a substantial number of patients reports high intensity pain about 3 months following a PFF, the large proportion of those receiving no or only PRN pain medication raises questions regarding the appropriateness of the therapy. The overall low utilization of the BMP indicates potential for improvement., (© 2024 The Author(s). Pharmacoepidemiology and Drug Safety published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Background: Patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) face a wide range of symptoms, including physical disability, imbalance, motor disorders, and acute and chronic pain. The psychosocial consequences of these symptoms may limit social well-being and quality of life in these patients., Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess self-perceived social isolation among patients with MS and its relationship with pain intensity and disability status., Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 200 patients with MS referred to neurology wards and clinics, the MS Association, and rehabilitation centers. Data collection tools used included a demographic information form, Numeric Pain Rating Scale, Expanded Disability Status Scale, and Social Isolation Questionnaire., Results: The mean scores of 4.66 ( SD = 1.15) for disability and 4.18 ( SD = 2.22) for pain intensity both indicated moderate levels of both. Of the sample, 21.5% (43 patients) reported no pain, 22.5% ( n = 45) reported mild pain, 35% ( n = 70) reported moderate pain, and 21% ( n = 42) reported intense pain. The average social isolation score was 63.52 ( SD = 3.32), which is higher than the theoretical average. Of the sample, 44.5% reported low social isolation, whereas 55.5% indicated high social isolation. Gender, duration of MS, economic status, disability status, and pain intensity were all found to be significantly associated with social isolation in patients with MS (all p s < .05)., Conclusions: Based on the findings, comprehensive support plans are necessary to improve psychosocial well-being, social life, and quality of life in patients with MS., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflicts of interest., (Copyright © 2024 The Authors. Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.)

Introduction: Hemophilia is an inherited bleeding disorder. Bleeding, and in particular joint hemorrhage results in chronic arthropathy and disability. Acute and chronic pain are frequent and limit activity and participation and result in decreased health-related quality of life. Remarkable progress has been made in the diagnosis and treatment of hemophilia but bleeding continues to prove recalcitrant to currently available treatments and joint disease remains problematic. Physiotherapy and pain management are mainstays of current multidisciplinary integrated care of people with hemophilia (PWH). The focus of this review is on preservation of joint health in the era of new and innovative therapies., Areas Covered: A search of the PubMed Central was conducted on 1 February 2024 using the MeSH Major Topic terms identified as keywords for the manuscript. This review will highlight what is known and unknown about joint bleeding and arthropathy, including insights on pain as a related complication., Expert Opinion: Recent advances in therapeutic interventions aimed at promoting healthy joints in PWH will be discussed, including both the pharmacological treatment landscape and related strategies to promote joint health.

This article will identify common causes of pain following traumatic brain injury (TBI), discuss current treatment strategies for these complaints, and help tailor treatments for both acute and chronic settings. We will also briefly discuss primary and secondary headache disorders, followed by common secondary pain disorders that may be related to trauma., Competing Interests: Disclosure The authors have nothing to disclose., (Published by Elsevier Inc.)

Objective: Pain often accompanies carpal tunnel syndrome and affects patients' health-related quality of life. The aim was to develop and validate a predictive model for the pain intensity of carpal tunnel syndrome using demographic, clinical, electrophysiological, and ultrasound findings., Methods: We conducted a secondary analysis of data from a large sample of patients (May 2017 to December 2022) with carpal tunnel syndrome. A total of 520 (53.0 %) mild, 276 (28.1 %) moderate, and 186 (18.9 %) severe syndromes were included in the complete data set of 982 hands (61.1 % female). The mean age was 57.8 (10.7) years and the median duration [interquartile range] of the symptoms was 4 [2,10] months. A regression model was developed and validated to predict pain intensity on a numerical rating scale using a tree-based machine learning algorithm., Results: The validation of the regression model showed good performance with a root mean squared error, R-squared, and mean absolute error of 1.35, 0.42, and 1.05, respectively. Overall, the top significant predictors of pain intensity were compound motor nerve action potential latency, nocturnal pain, and thenar weakness. These were followed by the cross-sectional area of the median nerve, sensory nerve action potential, bowing of the flexor retinaculum, disease duration, and body mass index. We did not find strong associations between the median nerve transcarpal latency, age, sex, and diabetes with the pain intensity of carpal tunnel syndrome., Conclusion: Our model showed good performance in predicting the subjective pain intensity of carpal tunnel syndrome, even in the context of non-linear relations., Competing Interests: Competing interests The authors declare that they have no competing interests., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Introduction: Given the absence of established recommendations for pain assessment in pharmacologically paralyzed Intensive-Care-Units (ICU) patients under Neuro-Muscular-Blocking Agents (NMBA), this study assessed the validity of various parameters for evaluating pain in this specific population., Patients and Methods: Four electrophysiological parameters (instant-Analgesia-Nociception-Index (ANI), Bispectral index (BIS), Heart Rate (HR) and Mean Arterial Blood Pressure (ABP)) and one clinical parameter (Behavioural-Pain-Scale (BPS)) were recorded during tracheal-suctioning in all consecutive ICU patients who required a continuous infusion of cisatracurium, before and just after paralysis recovery measured by Train-of-Four ratio. The validity of the five pain-related parameters was assessed by comparing the values recorded during different situations (before/during/after the nociceptive procedure) (discriminant-validity, primary outcome), and the effect of paralysis was assessed by comparing values obtained during and after paralysis (reliability, secondary outcome)., Results: Twenty patients were analyzed. ANI, BIS, and HR significantly changed during the nociceptive procedure in both paralysis and recovery, while BPS changed only post-recovery. ANI and HR were unaffected by paralysis, unlike BIS and BPS (mixed-effect model). ANI exhibited the highest discriminant-validity, with values (min 0/max 100) decreasing from 71 [48-89] at rest to 41 [25-72] during tracheal suctioning in paralyzed patients, and from 71 [53-85] at rest to 40 [31-52] in non-paralyzed patients., Conclusions: ANI proves the most discriminant parameter for pain detection in both paralyzed and non-paralyzed sedated ICU patients. Its significant and clinically relevant decrease during tracheal suctioning remains unaltered by NMBA use. Pending further studies on analgesia protocols based on ANI, it could be used to assess pain during nociceptive procedures in ICU patients receiving NMBA., (Copyright © 2024 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Masson SAS.. All rights reserved.)

Background: The effect of dietary modifications on pain and joint function in adults with osteoarthritis (OA) is an emerging area of study. This systematic review aimed to evaluate if adults with OA who consume diets with a higher proportion of plant phenols and omega-3 fatty acids would have less pain and improved joint function than those with a higher proportion of saturated fatty acids, omega-6 fatty acids and refined carbohydrates., Methods: Database searches of CINAHL (EBSCO), Clinical Trials (NIH-NLM), Cochrane Library (Wiley), Dissertation & Thesis Global (ProQuest), Embase (Elsevier), Medline (OVID), PubMed (NLM), Scopus (Elsevier), Web of Sciences (Clarivate) for clinical trials identified 7763 articles published between January 2015 and May 2023. After an independent review of the articles, seven randomised clinical trials and one nonrandomised clinical trial were included in the analysis. Because of the heterogeneity of the outcome measures, a meta-analysis was not possible., Results: Participants who were instructed to consume high-phenol/high-omega-3 fatty acid diets reported significant improvements in pain and physical function scores. The greatest improvement was reported by those who consumed a diet that had the most omega-3 fatty acids., Conclusion: Because of the high risk of bias, the strength of the evidence is limited. However, there is evidence that counselling adults with OA to replace refined grains and processed foods with whole plant foods, fish and plant oils may have a favourable effect on pain and physical function. Routine follow-up care regarding these diet modifications may be necessary to ensure adherence to this therapy., (© 2024 The Authors. Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of British Dietetic Association.)

We analyzed plasma melatonin levels in different groups of preterm newborns without hypoxia and their relationship with several perinatal variables like gestational age or neonatal pain. Prospective cohort study of preterm newborns (PTNB) without perinatal hypoxia, Apgar > 6 at 5 min, and oxygen needs on the third day of life. We compared melatonin levels at day 3 of life in different groups of non-hypoxic preterm infants (Student's t-tests, Mann-Whitney U, and chi 2 ) and analyzed the relationship of melatonin with GA, birth weight, neonatal pain (Premature Infant Pain Profile (PIPP) scale), caffeine treatment, parenteral nutrition, or the development of free radical diseases (correlation study, linear regression) and factors associated with moderate/intense pain and free radical diseases (logistic regression analysis). Sixty-one preterm infants with gestational age (GA) of 30.7 ± 2.0 weeks with no oxygen requirements at day 3 of life were studied with plasma melatonin levels of 33.8 ± 12.01 pg/ml. Preterm infants weighing < 1250 g at birth had lower plasma melatonin levels (p = 0.05). Preterm infants with moderate or severe pain (PPIPP > 5) have lower melatonin levels (p = 0.01), and being preterm with PIPP > 5 is associated with lower plasma melatonin levels (p = 0.03). Being very preterm (GA < 32 GS), having low weight for gestational age (LWGA), receiving caffeine treatment, or requiring parenteral nutrition did not modify melatonin levels in non-hypoxic preterm infants (p = NS). Melatonin on day 3 of life in non-hypoxic preterm infants is not associated with later development of free radical diseases (BPD, sepsis, ROP, HIV, NEC)., Conclusion: We observed that preterm infants with moderate to severe pain have lower melatonin levels. These findings are relevant because they reinforce the findings of other authors that melatonin supplementation decreases pain and oxidative stress in painful procedures in premature infants. Further studies are needed to evaluate whether melatonin could be used as an analgesic in painful procedures in preterm infants., Trial Registration: Trial registration was not required since this was an observational study., What Is Known: • Melatonin is a potent antioxidant and free radical scavenger in newborns under stress conditions: hypoxia, acidosis, hypotension, painful procedures, or parenteral nutrition. • Pain stimulates the production of melatonin. • Various studies conclude that melatonin administration decreases pain during the neonatal period., What Is New: • Non-hypoxic preterm infants with moderate to severe pain (PIPP>5) have lower levels of melatonin. • Administration of caffeine and treatment with parenteral nutrition do not modify melatonin levels in non-hypoxic preterm infants., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Background: International focus groups with patients with idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIM) conducted by the OMERACT Myositis Working Group over the years demonstrated the pain as an important symptom experienced by these patients. In this study, we aimed to examine the frequency and degree of pain interference, the aspects of daily life impacted by pain, and the factors associated with pain interference in adults with IIM., Methods: This was a prospective observational study with two visits. The patients who fulfilled the probable/definite IIM (ACR/EULAR Myositis Classification Criteria) were enrolled. Pain interference was assessed with PROMIS pain interference form (6a). Myositis core set measures and PROMIS fatigue (7a) and physical function (8b) were obtained at both visits. Logistic regression and linear mixed models were performed to assess the association between pain interference and other parameters., Results: A total of 129 patients with IIM (60 % females) were recruited from U.S., South Korea, Netherlands, Sweden, and Australia. Approximately 71 % reported pain interference. The patients in the greater pain interference group were more likely to be female, had significantly worse patient/physician global disease activity, fatigue, and physical function than those in the lower pain interference group. The most commonly impacted life aspect was household chores. Manual muscle testing, patient/physician global disease activity, fatigue, and physical function were all significantly associated with pain interference score >60., Conclusion: The majority of the patients with IIM experience the impact of pain on their daily activities, particularly household chores. Myositis disease activity, duration, and subtype could be associated with greater pain interference., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024. Published by Elsevier Inc.)

Background: Opioids are a common and essential treatment for acute sickle cell disease (SCD) pain. However, opioids carry well-known adverse side effects, including potential development of hyperalgesia and nociplastic pain. We characterized opioid use in youth with SCD using ecological momentary assessment (EMA) data, and investigated the relationships between home-based opioid use, pain, and a range of biopsychosocial factors., Method: Eighty-eight youth with SCD (aged 8-17 years) completed EMAs assessing home-based opioid use, pain, and related factors. Analyses consisted of descriptive and multilevel logistic regression to predict daily home opioid use., Results: Youth averaged 3.64 weeks of EMAs. Approximately 35% of the sample (n = 31) took an opioid during the EMA period, and used them on only 24% of reported pain days. Youth who took opioids reported a higher percentage of pain days (t = -2.67, p < .05) and mean pain severity scores (t = -2.30, p < .05) than youth who did not take opioids. Multilevel logistic regression analyses indicated that high daily pain severity (odds ratio [OR] = 1.02, p < .01), older age (OR = 1.324, p < .01), and low positive affect (OR = 0.91, p < .01) were each related to an increased likelihood of opioid use., Conclusion: Youth with SCD take opioids appropriately in response to their pain, based on daily self-report. Beyond daily pain severity, age, and daily variation in positive affect were related to home-based opioid use. This suggests that behavioral interventions that enhance positive affect may promote reduced opioid use among youth with SCD., (© 2024 The Authors. Pediatric Blood & Cancer published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Background: Multiple sclerosis and its related stressors significantly affect the mental health of people with MS. Considering the progressive and relapsing-remitting nature of the disease and somatic complaint, the Pain experience for MS patients is challenging. We examined the direct effects of Attachment and the negative affect on mental health and pain experience and the indirect effects of Attachment, negative affect, loneliness, and coping strategies on the mental health and pain experience of people with multiple sclerosis., Methods: Three hundred forty-five patients with MS were selected through the Iranian MS Association. Measures included the negative affect (PANAS), Adult Attachment Inventory (AAI), General Health Questionnaire (GHQ28), short-form McGill pain questionnaire (SF-mpq-2), Social and emotional loneliness scale for adults (SELSA-S), Coping Inventory for Stressful Situations(CISS-21). The present study has employed the Structural Equation Model (SEM) to investigate the direct and indirect effects of coping strategies, attachment, loneliness, and negative affect on mental health and pain experienced by individuals with MS. The fit of the model to the data was examined using the Discrepancy Function Divided by Degrees of Freedom (CMIN/DF), Normed Fit Index (NFI), TuckerLewis Index (TLI), Comparative Fit Index (CFI), and Root Mean Square Error of Approximation (RMSEA)., Results: The fit indices results showed that the model's fit was good. Furthermore, findings indicate that 13 % (R 2 =13) of the pain experience Changes and 47 % (R 2 =47) of the mental health Changes are explained via study predictors. Negative affect directly affects mental health and pain experience, and Attachment directly affects mental health. Negative affect indirectly affects coping strategies. Attachment and Negative affect indirectly affect loneliness. Loneliness and coping strategies indirectly affect mental health and pain experience., Conclusion: Study findings contribute to our understanding of the crucial structures that play a role in the mental health and pain experience of individuals with MS. Loneliness and coping strategies as mediating variables play essential roles in these people's mental health and pain experience. In the times ahead, it would be beneficial to prioritize addressing negative affect, attachment, coping strategies, and loneliness in the patients with MS' medical and psychological intervention., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that the investigation presented herein was conducted without any commercial or financial affiliation that could be interpreted as a potential source of conflicting interests., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Background: Parental support has been suggested to mitigate mental and physical consequences following childhood sexual abuse (CSA). However, many CSA survivors experience parental rejection post-CSA., Objective: We aimed to understand the impact of abuse-specific parental acceptance on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and physical pain in Burundian CSA-survivors. We further assessed the significance of parental acceptance among known risk factors for predicting PTSD., Methods, Participants, and Settings: Participants (N = 131, 80.9 % female, mean age 16.21 years) were recruited via primary health care centers for survivors of sexual violence which survivors approached post-CSA. Survivors reported on PTSD symptoms, daytime/nighttime pain, and adverse childhood experiences in semi-structured interviews. Parental acceptance levels were categorized (acceptance, no acceptance, no contact) for mothers and fathers separately. Kruskal-Wallis tests assessed group differences. Conditional random forests (CRF) evaluated the significance of parental acceptance in predicting PTSD symptom severity., Results: No significant differences regarding PTSD symptoms and physical pain between levels of maternal acceptance were obtained. Pairwise comparisons revealed significant differences in PTSD symptom severity between paternal acceptance and no acceptance (d = 1.04) and paternal acceptance and no contact (d = 0.81). The CRF identified paternal acceptance as important variable for the prediction of PTSD symptom severity. Even though results were less conclusive, medium effect sizes hint at less pain perception within the paternal acceptance group., Conclusions: The results highlight paternal acceptance as a potential risk or protective factor regarding psychological and possibly physical well-being in the aftermath of CSA, even in the context of other known risk factors., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.)

Background: Patients often consider bone marrow aspiration and biopsy to be one of the most painful medical procedures. The effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions to reduce pain during bone marrow aspiration and biopsy remains unclear., Aim: To synthesize existing evidence regarding the effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions in mitigating procedural pain among patients undergoing bone marrow aspiration and biopsy., Design: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials., Methods: Six electronic databases, including PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Cochrane Library and Web of Science were searched from inception to July 15, 2023. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool Version 2.0. Meta-analysis was conducted using STATA 16. The certainty of the evidence was assessed by the GRADE approach., Results: This meta-analysis included 18 studies derived from 17 articles involving a total of 1017 participants. The pooled results revealed statistically significant pain reduction effects using distraction (SMD: -.845, 95% CI: -1.344 to -.346, p < .001), powered bone marrow biopsy system (SMD: -.266, 95% CI: -.529 to -.003, p = .048), and acupoint stimulation (SMD: -1.016, 95% CI: -1.995 to -.037, p = .042) among patients undergoing bone marrow aspiration and biopsy. However, the pooled results on hypnosis (SMD: -1.228, 95% CI: -4.091 to 1.515, p = .368) showed no significant impact on pain reduction. Additionally, the pooled results for distraction did not demonstrate a significant effect on operative anxiety (MD: -2.942, 95% CI: -7.650 to 1.767, p = .221)., Conclusions: Distraction, powered bone marrow biopsy system and acupoint stimulation are effective in reducing pain among patients undergoing bone marrow aspiration and biopsy., Patient or Public Contribution: Not applicable., Relevance to Clinical Practice: This meta-analysis highlights the effectiveness of distraction, powered bone marrow biopsy system and acupoint stimulation for reducing pain in patients undergoing bone marrow biopsy. Healthcare professionals should consider integrating these interventions into pain management practices for these patients., Registration: (PROSPERO): CRD42023422854., (© 2024 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)