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BACKGROUND: Lumbar spinal fusion surgery is a well-established treatment for various spinal disorders. However, one of its complications, pseudoarthrosis, poses a significant concern. This study aims to explore the incidence, time and predictive factors contributing to pseudoarthrosis in patients who have undergone lumbar fusion surgery over a 10-year period. METHODS: Data for this research was sourced from the PearlDiver database where insurance claims of patients who underwent multilevel lumbar spinal fusion between 01/01/2010 and 10/31/2022 were examined for claims of pseudoarthrosis within the 10 years of their index procedure. A variety of demographic, comorbid, and surgical factors were assessed, including age, gender, Elixhauser Comorbidity Index (ECI), surgical approach, substance use disorders and history of spinal disorders. Statistical analyses, including chi-squared tests, multivariate analysis, and cox survival analysis were employed to determine significant associations. RESULTS: Among the 76,337 patients included in this retrospective study, 2.70% were diagnosed with symptomatic lumbar pseudoarthrosis at an average of 7.38 years in a 10-year follow-up. Multivariate and Cox hazard analyses revealed that significant predictors of symptomatic pseudoarthrosis development following multilevel primary lumbar fusion include vitamin D deficiency, osteoarthritis, opioid and NSAID use, tobacco use, and a prior history of congenital spine disorders. CONCLUSIONS: In summary, this study revealed a 2.70% incidence of symptomatic lumbar pseudoarthrosis within 10 years of the index procedure. It highlighted several potential predictive factors, including comorbidities, surgical approaches, and substance use disorders, associated with the development of symptomatic pseudoarthrosis. Future research should focus on refining our understanding of these factors to improve patient outcomes and optimize healthcare resource allocation.

Introduction: In the current study, we screened for highly sensitive and specific predictors of premature birth, with the aim to establish an sPTB prediction model that is suitable for women in China and easy to operate and popularize, as well as to establish a sPTB prediction scoring system for early, intuitive, and effective assessment of premature birth risk. Methods: A total of 685 pregnant women with a single pregnancy during the second trimester (16–26 weeks) were divided into premature and non-premature delivery groups based on their delivery outcomes. Clinical and ultrasound information were collected for both groups, and risk factors that could lead to sPTB in pregnant women were screened and analyzed using a cut-off value. A nomogram was developed to establish a prediction model and scoring system for sPTB. In addition, 119 pregnant women who met the inclusion criteria for the modeling cohort were included in the external validation of the model. The accuracy and consistency of the model were evaluated using the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) and C-calibration curves. Results: Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed a significant correlation (P < 0.05) between the number of miscarriages in pregnant women, history of miscarriages in the first week of pregnancy, history of preterm birth, CL of pregnant women, open and continuous cervical opening, and the occurrence of sPTB in pregnant women. We drew a nomogram column chart based on the six risk factors mentioned above, obtained a predictive model for sPTB, and established a scoring system to divide premature birth into three risk groups: low, medium, and high. After validating the model, the Hosmer Lemeshow test indicated a good fit (p = 0.997). The modeling queue C calibration curve was close to diagonal (C index = 0.856), confirming that the queue C calibration curve was also close to diagonal (C index = 0.854). The AUCs of the modeling and validation queues were 0.850 and 0.881, respectively. Conclusion: Our predictive model is consistent with China's national conditions, as well as being intuitive and easy to operate, with wide applicability, thus representing a helpful tool to assist with early detection of sPTB in clinical practice, as well as for clinical management in assessing low, medium, and high risks of sPTB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Metastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC) represents a significant challenge in oncology, and systemic therapy remains the primary treatment modality. Radiation therapy (RT) offers a non-invasive ablative approach to the management of oligometastatic disease, and the use of Stereotactic Ablative Radiotherapy (SABR) has demonstrated remarkably high disease control. Within the broad spectrum of oligometastatic disease, we evaluated the efficacy of SABR on oligorecurrent RCC systemic treatment-naïve, and we aimed to identify predictive factors for long-term disease control. We demonstrated the potential of SABR to delay the need for systemic therapy and confirmed the long-term efficacy of SABR for oligometastatic RCC patients, with a superior benefit for patients with single lung metastasis, potentially refining patient selection processes to tailor treatments. Background: Stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR) is emerging as a potential local treatment option for oligometastatic RCC. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of SABR in patients with oligorecurrent RCC. Methods: A total of 50 patients with histologically confirmed RCC underwent SABR for oligorecurrence between 2006 and 2022. Eligible patients had up to five extracranial metastases and were systemic treatment-naïve at the time of irradiation. The primary endpoints of the analysis were overall survival (OS), local control (LC), distant metastasis–free survival (DMFS), and time to systemic therapy initiation. Results: The median OS was not reached, with 1- and 3-year OS rates of 93.8% and 77.5%, respectively. LC rates at one and three years were 95.8% and 86.5%, respectively. The median time to systemic therapy initiation was 63.8 months, and the median DMFS was 17.9 months, with one- and three-year rates of 63.4% and 36.6%, respectively. Multiple metastases were a negative predictive factor for DMFS (HR 2.39, p = 0.023), whereas lung metastases were associated with a more favorable outcome (HR 0.38, p = 0.011). Conclusions: SABR offers a valuable treatment option for oligometastatic RCC, demonstrating significant potential for achieving long-term disease control and delaying the need for systemic therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Juvenile strokes (< 55 years) account for about 15% of all ischemic strokes. Structured data on clinical outcome in those patients are sparse. Here, we aimed to fill this gap by systematically collecting relevant data and modeling a juvenile stroke prediction score for the 3-month functional outcome. Methods: We retrospectively integrated and analyzed clinical and outcome data of juvenile stroke and TIA patients treated at the LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich. Good outcome was defined as a modified Rankin Scale of 0–2 or return to baseline of function. We analyzed candidate predictors and developed a predictive model. Predictive abilities were inspected using Area Under the ROC curve (AUROC) and visual representation of the calibration. The model was validated internally. Results: 346 patients were included in the analysis. We observed a good outcome in n = 293 patients (84.7%). The prediction model for an unfavourable outcome had an AUROC of 89.1% (95% CI 83.3–93.1%). The model includes age NIHSS, ASPECTS, blood glucose and type of vessel occlusion as predictors for the individual patient outcome. Conclusions: Here, we introduce the highly accurate PREDICT-score for the 3-month outcome after juvenile stroke derived from clinical routine data. The PREDICT-score might be helpful in guiding individual patient decisions and designing future studies but needs further prospective validation which is already planned. Trial registration The study has been registered at https://drks.de (DRKS00024407) on March 31, 2022. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim Differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC) is the most prevalent endocrine malignancy, with radioactive iodine (RAI) therapy being a standard of care. However, RAI refractoriness, occurring in a subset of patients, significantly impacts survival rates. Understanding predictive factors for RAI refractoriness is crucial for optimizing patient management. Methods This retrospective study analyzed data from 90 DTC patients at Ibn Sina University Hospital, Morocco. Patients were categorized into RAI-refractory (RAIR) and non-RAIR groups based on established criteria. Statistical analyses, including univariate and multivariate logistic regression, were performed to identify predictive factors of RAI refractoriness. Results Age at the time of diagnosis ≥ 54 years, primary tumor diameter ≥ 29 mm, and distal/nodal metastasis were independent predictors of RAIR-DTC. Additionally, the oncocytic carcinoma histological subtype significantly increased the risk of refractoriness. These findings were consistent with previous studies and underscored the importance of early detection and risk stratification. Conclusion Recognition of predictive factors for RAI refractoriness, including age, tumor size, distal/nodal metastasis, and histological subtype, facilitates early identification of high-risk patients. This enables timely intervention and personalized treatment strategies, particularly relevant in resource-limited settings. Further prospective studies are warranted to validate these findings and explore additional molecular markers for improved prediction of RAI refractoriness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: The most important prognostic factors in curatively treated prostate cancer are T and N stage, histology, grade group and initial PSA. A recent study found that men with blood calcium levels at the high end of the normal range are over two-and-a-half times more likely to develop fatal prostate cancer than those with lower calcium levels. However, there is limited evidence regarding the prognostic value of calcium levels at the time of prostate cancer diagnosis. We aimed to determine whether a calcium level in the upper range of normal values has any prognostic value in curatively treated prostate cancer. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of 84 consecutive patients with prostate cancer who underwent curative-intent radiotherapy—either as primary treatment or adjuvant therapy—using external beam radiotherapy with or without brachytherapy. We analyzed all pertinent prognostic factors that could potentially impact disease-free survival. Results: The study revealed that calcium levels at diagnosis significantly predict disease-free survival, whereas the initial PSA level did not hold prognostic significance—likely due to interference from benign prostatic hyperplasia. Conclusions: If our findings are validated, calcium levels at the time of prostate cancer diagnosis could be incorporated into future predictive and prognostic models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conservative treatment of acute appendicitis is gaining popularity, and identifying patients with a higher risk of recurrence is becoming increasingly important. Previous studies have suggested that older age, male sex, diabetes, appendicolith and abscess formation may be contributing factors, however, results from the adult population are inconsistent. This study aims to identify predictive factors for recurrent appendicitis after conservative treatment. This retrospective study included patients with conservatively treated acute appendicitis at Skåne University Hospital, Sweden during 2012-2019. Information on patient demographics at index admission and follow-up data were retrieved from medical charts and radiologic images. Uni -and multivariable logistic regression analysis were performed using Stata Statistical Software. In total, 379 patients with conservatively treated acute appendicitis were identified, of which 78 (20.6%) had recurrence. All patients were followed-up for a minimum of 41 months after the first diagnosis of acute appendicitis unless appendectomy after successful conservative treatment or death occurred during follow-up. The median time to recurrence was 6.5 (1–17.8) months. After multivariable logistic regression analysis, external appendix diameter >10 mm [OR 2.4 (CI 1.37–4.21), p =.002] and intra-abdominal abscess [OR 2.05 (CI 1.18–3.56), p =.011] on computed tomography were significant independent risk factors for recurrent appendicitis. Appendicolith was not associated with an increased risk of recurrence. This study suggests abscess formation and appendix distension of >10 mm to be potential risk factors for recurrent acute appendicitis after initial successful conservative treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study evaluates DDR biomarkers in 222 node-positive early breast cancer patients from a Phase III trial on adjuvant taxanes. Over a 234-month follow-up period, no differences in DFS or OS were observed between treatment groups. However, a DDR risk score, influenced by ATM and ATR expression, proved to be an independent prognostic factor for both DFS and OS. Validation in a public cohort confirmed ATM's protective role. These findings highlight the importance of DDR pathways in breast cancer prognostication and support, integrating molecular markers with clinical–pathological factors to inform treatment strategies. We assessed the impact of DNA damage response and repair (DDR) biomarker expressions in 222 node-positive early breast cancer (BC) patients from a previous Phase III GOIM 9902 trial of adjuvant taxanes. At a median follow-up of 64 months, the original study showed no disease-free survival (DFS) or overall survival (OS) differences with the addition of docetaxel (D) to epirubicine-cyclophosphamide (EC). Immunohistochemistry was employed to assess the expression of DDR phosphoproteins (pATM, pATR, pCHK1, γH2AX, pRPA32, and pWEE1) in tumor tissue, and their association with clinical outcomes was evaluated through the Cox elastic net model. Over an extended follow-up of 234 months, we confirmed no significant differences in DFS or OS between patients treated with EC and those receiving D → EC. A DDR risk score, inversely driven by ATM and ATR expression, emerged as an independent prognostic factor for both DFS (HR = 0.41, p < 0.0001) and OS (HR = 0.61, p = 0.046). Further validation in a public adjuvant BC cohort was possible only for ATM, confirming its protective role. Overall, our findings confirm the potential role of the DDR pathway in BC prognostication and in shaping treatment strategies advocating for an integrated approach, combining molecular markers with clinical–pathological factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/aim: Efficient discharge for stroke patients is crucial but challenging. The study aimed to develop early predictive models to explore which patient characteristics and variables significantly influence the discharge planning of patients, based on the data available within 24 h of admission. Design: Prospective observational study. Methods: A prospective cohort was conducted at a university hospital with 523 patients hospitalised for stroke. We built and trained six different machine learning (ML) models, followed by testing and tuning those models to find the best‐suited predictor for discharge disposition, dichotomized into home and non‐home. To evaluate the accuracy, reliability and interpretability of the best‐performing models, we identified and analysed the features that had the greatest impact on the predictions. Results: In total, 523 patients met the inclusion criteria, with a mean age of 61 years. Of the patients with stroke, 30.01% had non‐home discharge. Our model predicting non‐home discharge achieved an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.95 and a precision of 0.776. After threshold was moved, the model had a recall of 0.809. Top 10 variables by importance were National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score, family income, Barthel index (BI) score, FRAIL score, fall risk, pressure injury risk, feeding method, depression, age and dysphagia. Conclusion: The ML model identified higher NIHSS, BI, and FRAIL, family income, higher fall risk, pressure injury risk, older age, tube feeding, depression and dysphagia as the top 10 strongest risk predictors in identifying patients who required non‐home discharge to higher levels of care. Modern ML techniques can support timely and appropriate clinical decision‐making. Relevance to Clinical Practice: This study illustrates the characteristics and risk factors of non‐home discharge in patients with stroke, potentially contributing to the improvement of the discharge process. Reporting Method: STROBE guidelines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the predictors and establish a nomogram model for the prediction of the response to treatment in primary membranous nephropathy (PMN) with nephrotic syndrome (NS). Methods: The clinical, laboratory, pathological and follow-up data of patients with biopsy-proven membranous nephropathy at the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University were collected. A total of 373 patients were randomly assigned into development group (n = 262) and validation group (n = 111). Logistic regression analysis was performed in the development group to determine the predictors of treatment response. A nomogram model was established based on the multivariate logistic regression analysis and validated in the validation group. The C-index and calibration plots were used for the evaluation of the discrimination and calibration performance, respectively. Results: Serum albumin levels (OR = 1.151, 95% CI 1.078–1.229, P < 0.001) and glomerular C3 deposition (OR = 0.407, 95% CI 0.213–0.775, P = 0.004) were identified as independent predictive factors for treatment response in PMN with NS, then a nomogram was established combining the above indicators and treatment regimen. The C-indices of this model were 0.718 (95% CI 0.654–0.782) and 0.789 (95% CI 0.705–0.873) in the development and validation groups, respectively. The calibration plots showed that the predicted probabilities of the model were consistent with the actual probabilities (P > 0.05), which indicated favorable performance of this model in predicting the treatment response probability. Conclusions: Serum albumin levels and glomerular C3 deposition were predictors for treatment response of PMN with NS. A novel nomogram model with good discrimination and calibration was constructed to predict treatment response probability at an early stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The risk factors for acute skin failure (ASF), a serious complication of the skin, are not fully understood. Purpose: This study was designed to explore the risk factors for ASF in critically ill patients and construct a clinical prediction model. Methods: Intensive care unit patients were prospectively observed and assigned into two groups: with and without ASF. A logistic regression model was constructed, and its predictive power and clinical utility were evaluated. Results: Of the 204 eligible patients enrolled as participants, 58 (28.43%) developed ASF. Sepsis, vasoactive drugs, and age were shown to be risk factors for ASF, whereas peripheral perfusion index ratio and albumin level were shown to be protective factors. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.83. The maximum Youden index of the model was 0.39 (specificity: 0.87, sensitivity: 0.77). The Hosmer– Lemeshow test (p = .20) and calibration curve showed good fitness and predictive utility with respect to the model. Conclusions: The developed model effectively predicts ASF risk, allowing for the early identification of high-risk patients. Identifying risk factors such as sepsis, vasoactive drugs, and age and considering protective factors such as peripheral perfusion index and albumin levels may help optimize care plans. Clinical staff should pay special attention to these factors and their impact on skin health in critically ill patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The mesh is currently the preferred treatment option for hernia repair surgery. Chronic postoperative inguinal pain (CPIP), lasting more than 3 months after surgery, is a complication that significantly impacts patients' quality of life. Currently, there is a lack of evidence-based information describing the incidence and independent predictive factors of chronic pain, posing a serious challenge in clinical practice for devising personalized prevention strategies. Hence, we conducted this systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the incidence and predictive factors, aiming to provide a reference for developing plans to prevent chronic pain. Methods: We conducted a systematic search of PubMed, Cochrane, Embase, and Web of Science, with the retrieval cutoff date set at December 17, 2022. The included studies underwent assessment using the NOS scale, and subgroup analysis for the incidence was carried out based on different regions. Results: Ultimately, 18 studies were included, involving 29,466 patients. Meta-analysis showed that the pooled incidence of chronic pain was 17.01% (95%CI 12.78% ~ 21.71%). The incidence was 18.65% (95%CI 13.59% ~ 24.29%) in Europe, 14.70% (95%CI 7.87% ~ 23.17%) in Asia, and 6.04%(95%CI 4.62 ~ 7.64) in North America. Furthermore, We also found that the risk factors for CPIP are younger age [OR = 2.261 (95%CI 1.126 ~ 4.549)], presence of other postoperative complications [OR = 1.849 (95%CI 1.034 ~ 3.305)], hernial sac defect < 3 cm [OR = 1.370 (95%CI 1.012 ~ 1.853)], being female [OR = 1.885 (95%CI 1.024 ~ 3.472)], postoperative pain [OR = 1.553 (95%CI 1.276 ~ 1.889)], preoperative pain [OR = 2.321 (95%CI 1.354 ~ 3.979)], and having a history of ipsilateral inguinal hernia repair [OR = 2.706 (95% CI 1.445 ~ 5.069)]. Conclusions: The incidence of persistent pain following hernia repair surgery is high in current clinical practice, a concern that should not be overlooked. Stratified assessment tools need to be established for patients experiencing early chronic pain, and personalized follow-up strategies and preventive interventions should be developed for those with potentially high risks. These measures aim to enhance the quality of life for patients after hernia repair. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neurological patients frequently have disorders of consciousness, swallowing disorders, or neurological states that are incompatible with extubation. Therefore, they frequently require tracheostomies during their stay in an intensive care unit. After the acute phase, tracheostomy weaning and decannulation are generally expected to promote rehabilitation. However, few reliable predictive factors (PFs) for decannulation have been identified in this patient population. We sought to identify PFs that may be used during tracheostomy weaning and decannulation in patients with brain injuries. We conducted a systematic review of the literature regarding potential PFs for decannulation; searches were performed on 16 March 2021 and 1 June 2022. The following databases were searched: MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Science, PEDro, OPENGREY, OPENSIGLE, Science Direct, CLINICAL TRIALS and CENTRAL. We searched for all article types, except systematic reviews, meta-analyses, abstracts, and position articles. Retrieved articles were published in English or French, with no date restriction. In total, 1433 articles were identified; 26 of these were eligible for inclusion in the review. PFs for successful decannulation in patients with acquired brain injuries (ABIs) included high neurological status, traumatic brain injuries rather than stroke or anoxic brain lesions, younger age, effective swallowing, an effective cough, and the absence of pulmonary infections. Secondary PFs included early tracheostomy, supratentorial lesions, the absence of critical illness polyneuropathy/myopathy, and the absence of tracheal lesions. To our knowledge, this is the first systematic review to identify PFs for decannulation in patients with ABIs. These PFs may be used by clinicians during tracheostomy weaning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is a significant contributor to chronic kidney disease (CKD). Renal arteriolar damage is associated with IgAN prognosis. However, simple tools for predicting arteriolar damage of IgAN remain limited. We aim to develop and validate a nomogram model for predicting renal arteriolar damage in IgAN patients. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 547 cases of biopsy-proven IgAN patients. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression and logistic regression were applied to screen for factors associated with renal arteriolar damage in patients with IgAN. A nomogram was developed to evaluate the renal arteriolar damage in patients with IgAN. The performance of the proposed nomogram was evaluated based on a calibration plot, ROC curve (AUC) and Harrell's concordance index (C-index). Results: In this study, patients in the arteriolar damage group had higher levels of age, mean arterial pressure (MAP), serum creatinine, serum urea nitrogen, serum uric acid, triglycerides, proteinuria, tubular atrophy/interstitial fibrosis (T1-2) and decreased eGFR than those without arteriolar damage. Predictors contained in the prediction nomogram included age, MAP, eGFR and serum uric acid. Then, a nomogram model for predicting renal arteriolar damage was established combining the above indicators. Our model achieved well-fitted calibration curves and the C-indices of this model were 0.722 (95%CI 0.670-0.774) and 0.784 (95%CI 0.716-0.852) in the development and validation groups, respectively. Conclusion: With excellent predictive abilities, the nomogram may be a simple and reliable tool to predict the risk of renal arteriolar damage in patients with IgAN. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic continues to spread throughout the world causing serious morbidity and mortality. Health care professionals (HCP) are on the front line in the face of this pandemic and are identified as priorities for COVID-19 vaccination. This study aimed to estimate the acceptability rate of the COVID-19 vaccination among HCP and to identify their predisposing factors. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study using an anonymous self-administered questionnaire including a randomized sample of HCP in Southern Tunisia, on March–April 2021. Results: Among 300 participants, the COVID-19 vaccine acceptability rate was 65.3%. Factors independently associated with vaccine acceptability were age groups <30 years [Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR)=4.36; p = 0.002)], urbanity of residence (AOR = 3.44; p = 0.027), medical professional category (AOR = 2.69; p = 0.023) and caring for coronavirus infected patients (AOR = 2.32; p = 0.047). Belief that COVID-19 vaccination is important to work safely as a health care provider (AOR = 3.26; p = 0.013), should be available for all HCP (AOR = 17.98; p = 0.004) and has been quickly developed before it has been thoroughly vetted and tested for efficacy and safety (AOR = 5.88; p < 0.01) were independently associated with willingness to accept vaccine. Planning to get a COVID-19 vaccine for the next years and recommending it to the family were independent predictive factors of accepting COVID-19 vaccine ((AOR = 6.88; p < 0.001) and (AOR = 25.03; p < 0.001), respectively).Conclusion: The acceptance rate of vaccination against COVID-19 among Tunisian HCP is still low in South Tunisian hospitals. Socio-demographic, cultural and professional factors predisposing to the vaccination willingness were highlighted. Combating the vaccine hesitancy of HCP through enhancing sensibilization campaigns is essential to promote vaccination in general population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Idiopathic acute transverse myelitis (IATM) is a focal inflammatory disorder of the spinal cord that results in motor, sensory, and autonomic dysfunction. However, the comparative analysis of MRI-negative and MRI-positive in IATM patients were rarely reported. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to compare MRI-negative with MRI-positive groups in IATM patients, analyze the predictors for a poor prognosis, thus explore the relationship between MRI-negative and prognosis. Methods: We selected 132 patients with first-attack IATM at the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University from May 2018 to May 2022. Patients were divided into MRI-positive and MRI-negative group according to whether there were responsible spinal MRI lesions, and good prognosis and poor prognosis based on whether the EDSS score ≥ 4 at follow-up. The predictive factors of poor prognosis in IATM patients was analyzed by logistic regression models. Results: Of the 132 patients, 107 first-attack patients who fulfilled the criteria for IATM were included in the study. We showed that 43 (40%) patients had a negative spinal cord MRI, while 27 (25%) patients were identified as having a poor prognosis (EDSS score at follow-up ≥ 4). Compared with MRI-negative patients, the MRI-positive group was more likely to have back/neck pain, spinal cord shock and poor prognosis, and the EDSS score at follow-up was higher. We also identified three risk factors for a poor outcome: absence of second-line therapies, high EDSS score at nadir and a positive MRI result. Conclusions: Compared with MRI-negative group, MRI-positive patients were more likely to have back/neck pain, spinal cord shock and poor prognosis, with a higher EDSS score at follow-up. The absence of second-line therapies, high EDSS score at nadir, and a positive MRI were risk factors for poor outcomes in patients with first-attack IATM. MRI-negative patients may have better prognosis, an active second-line immunotherapy for IATM patients may improve clinical outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Pediatric ovarian torsion (OT) is an emergency condition that remains challenging to diagnose because of its overall unspecific clinical presentation. The aim of this study was to determine the diagnostic value of clinical, ultrasound, and inflammatory laboratory markers in pediatric OT. Methods: We performed a retrospective multicentric case–control study in patients with clinical and ultrasound suspicion of OT, in whom surgical examination was performed between 2016–2022 in seven pediatric hospitals. Patients were divided into two groups according to intraoperative findings: OT group (ovarian torsion), defined as torsion of the ovarian axis at least 360°, and non-OT group (no torsion). Demographics, clinical, ultrasound, and laboratory features at admission were analyzed. The diagnostic yield analysis was performed using logistic regression models, and the results were represented by ROC curves. Results: We included a total of 110 patients (75 in OT group; 35 in non-OT group), with no demographic or clinical differences between them. OT-group patients had shorter time from symptom onset (8 vs. 12 h; p = 0.023), higher ultrasound median ovarian volume (63 vs. 51 mL; p = 0.013), and a significant increase in inflammatory markers (leukocytes, neutrophils, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, C-reactive protein) when compared to the non-OT group. In the ROC curve analysis, the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) presented the highest AUC (0.918), with maximum sensitivity (92.4%) and specificity (90.1%) at the cut-off point NLR = 2.57. Conclusions: NLR can be considered as a useful predictor of pediatric OT in cases with clinical and ultrasound suspicion. Values above 2.57 may help to anticipate urgent surgical treatment in these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The association between eating disorders (EDs) and harmful substance use (substance use that causes psychosocial impairment) is well recognized in the literature, and military veterans may be at heightened risk for both issues due to deployment‐related stressors. However, little is known about which ED‐related symptoms are associated with harmful substance use in veterans, and whether gender plays a differential role in this relationship. Our aims were to: (1) examine gender differences in ED‐related symptoms; and (2) examine whether ED‐related symptoms differentially predict harmful substance use in US veteran men and women who had recently separated from service. Method: This study was based on a nationally representative four‐wave longitudinal sample of post‐9/11 veterans (N = 835; 61.2% female). Longitudinal mixed modeling was used to test whether specific ED‐related behaviors at baseline predicted harmful substance use at follow‐ups. Results: We replicated gendered patterns of ED‐related symptoms observed in civilian populations, wherein men had higher weight‐and‐body‐related concerns (including excessive exercise and muscle building) and negative attitude toward obesity, and women had higher bulimic and restricting symptoms. For women, alcohol, drug, and marijuana problems were predicted by higher bulimic symptoms, whereas for men, these problems were predicted by higher restricting symptoms. Conclusion: Gender played a differential role in the relationship between EDs and harmful substance use. Bulimic symptoms were the most robust predictor for harmful substance use among veteran women, whereas restricting was the most robust predictor for harmful substance use among veteran men. Public Significance: The current study found that veteran women had higher bulimic symptoms (characterized by binge eating and purging) and restricting than veteran men. In women, bulimic symptoms predicted future harmful use of alcohol, marijuana, and other drugs. In contrast, veteran men had higher weight‐and‐body‐related concerns (characterized by excessive exercise and muscle building) than veteran women. In men, restricting symptoms predicted future harmful use of alcohol, marijuana, and other drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Patients with hemifacial spasm (HFS) often resort to botulinum toxin injections or microvascular decompression surgery when medication exhibits limited effectiveness. This study aimed to identify MRI and demographic factors associated with poor drug response at an early stage in patients with HFS. Methods: We retrospectively included patients with HFS who underwent pre-therapeutic MRI examination. The presence, location, severity, and the offending vessels of neurovascular compression were blindly evaluated using MRI. Drug responses and clinical data were obtained from the medical notes or phone follow-ups. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify potential factors. Results: A total of 116 patients were included, with an average age at the time of first examination of 50.4 years and a median duration of onset of 18 months. Forty-nine (42.2%) patients reported no symptom relief. Thirty-seven (31.9%) patients reported poor symptom relief. Twenty-two (19.0%) patients reported partial symptom relief. Eight (6.9%) patients achieved complete symptom relief. The factors that were statistically significant associated with poor drug responses were contact in the attach segment of the facial nerve and aged 70 and above, with an odds ratio of 7.772 (p = 0.002) and 0.160 (p = 0.028), respectively. Conclusions: This study revealed that mild compression in the attach segment of the facial nerve in pre-therapeutic MRI increases the risk of poor drug responses in patients with HFS, while patients aged 70 and above showed a decreased risk. These findings may assist clinician to choose optimal treatment at an early stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The clinical importance of positive peritoneal cytology results in patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas remains controversial. We evaluated the prognosis of these patients and the predictive preoperative risk factors for positive peritoneal cytology results. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent curative-intent surgery at our institution between May 2010 and June 2020. Preoperative risk factors for positive peritoneal cytology results were identified using logistic regression analysis. A scoring model was constructed using the total number of significant independent predictors for positive peritoneal cytology results. Results: Of 233 patients, 18 (7.7%) had positive peritoneal cytology results. The recurrence-free survival and cancer-specific survival were markedly worse in patients with positive peritoneal cytology results than in those with negative peritoneal cytology results (recurrence-free survival: 6.0 months vs. 16.6 months, p = 0.050; cancer-specific survival: 19.4 months vs. 47.5 months, p = 0.034). Tumor location (odds ratio: 3.760, 95% confidence interval: 1.099–11.818, p = 0.023), tumor size > 25 mm (odds ratio: 3.410, 95% confidence interval: 1.031–11.277, p = 0.046), preoperative serosal invasion (odds ratio: 5.193, 95% confidence interval: 1.099–24.531, p = 0.038), and preoperative carcinoembryonic antigen level > 5.6 ng/mL (odds ratio: 3.816, 95% confidence interval: 1.248–10.667, p = 0.019) were identified as significant independent predictive factors. Our predictive model's optimal cutoff and positive predictive values for positive peritoneal cytology results were 3 and 27.9%, respectively. Conclusions: The indications for curative-intent surgery should be considered carefully in patients with high-risk factors for positive peritoneal cytology results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the incidence of and predictive factors for recurrent cytomegalovirus retinitis (CMVR) in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-negative patients. A retrospective review of HIV-negative patients who were newly diagnosed with CMVR between January 2005 and February 2019. Of 28 patients (44 eyes), 35.9% of eyes had a recurrence of CMVR after discontinuation of anti-CMV therapy. The incidence of CMVR recurrence was 17 per 100 eye-years. The factors significantly associated with CMVR recurrence were eyes with retinitis area of more than 25% (P =.013), absence of vitreous haze (P =.003), neutropenia at presentation (P =.001), and absence of systemic immunosuppression therapy prior to presentation (P =.002). Eyes with a large area of retinitis, absence of vitreous haze, and neutropenia at presentation are predictive of CMVR recurrence while receiving systemic immunosuppression prior to CMVR presentation has a lower risk of CMVR recurrence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and the platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), two promising biomarkers of effectiveness of cancer immunotherapy, have obtained great attention in recent years. The NLR and PLR are both simple and readily available markers derived from routine blood tests. It is postulated that integrating these biomarkers into clinical practice could facilitate monitoring immunotherapy effects. In this study, we retrospectively examined NLR and PLR values in non-small cell lung cancer patients (NSCLC) receiving second-line immunotherapy. Material and methods. The study group included 73 NSCLC patients: 38 men and 35 women. Twenty-three patients were diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma (SqCC), and 50 patients with non-squamous cell carcinoma (non-SqCC). We assessed NLR and PLR values at immunotherapy initiation (NLR1, PLR1) and after 3 months of the follow-up (NLR2 and PLR2). These parameters were correlated with the clinical characteristics of patients, response to treatment, progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS). Results. The values of PLR1 and delta PLR were significantly higher in non-SqCC patients compared to SqCC patients. Other clinical and demographic factors did not influence the values of NLR1, NLR2, PLR2, or delta NLR. Medians of NLR1 and NLR2 were significantly lower in patients with controlled disease than in patients with disease progression. Patients with PFS longer than 12 months had a significantly lower median NLR2 than patients with PFS shorter than 1 year. A factor that significantly increased the risk of progression and death was a high NLR2 value. Conclusions. NLR and PLR represent promising biomarkers for monitoring immunotherapy effectiveness in cancer patients, which offer insights into the dynamic interplay between the host immune system and tumor biology. Further research is warranted to validate their utility in larger patient cohorts and standardize their incorporation into clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The present study aims to design a model of predictive factors for entrepreneurial opportunities in international companies. Methodology: This study employs a mixed methods approach (qualitativequantitative), with data collection conducted in both qualitative and quantitative sections. In the qualitative section, data were gathered through the study of documented sources and semi-structured interviews with 17 managers and experts in the field of entrepreneurship. These individuals were selected using purposive and snowball sampling and data were analyzed using the software MAXQDA18 through the grounded theory method. In the quantitative section, data from 148 senior and mid-level managers of international companies based in Tehran were collected using a researcher-made questionnaire and convenience sampling, and then tested using structural equation modeling. Findings: The results indicated that causal conditions (unexpected events, industry-based changes, market structure changes, method-based deficiencies, value and cognition-based changes, new knowledge, and demographic characteristics) impact the phenomenon of entrepreneurial opportunities. The strategies included organizational strategies, market-related strategies, business strategies, and effective performance management. Contextual conditions (capital, corporate factors, individual characteristics, and social factors) and intervening conditions (environmental factors, personality traits, driving forces, economic factors, and errors) also influenced the strategies, which in turn had a positive impact on the outcomes. Conclusion: The results suggest that based on the views and opinions of senior and mid-level managers of international companies regarding the indigenous model of predictive factors for entrepreneurial opportunities, planners should leverage the effective factors in this model to advance their objectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The immune system appears to play a crucial role in how breast cancer responds to chemotherapy. In this study, we investigated a peripheral marker of immune and inflammation named the neutrophil to albumin ratio (NAR) to explore its potential relationship with pathological complete response (pCR) in locally advanced breast cancer patients who underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC). Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of 212 consecutive breast cancer patients who received NAC. The NAR was calculated by examining the complete blood cell count and albumin level in peripheral blood before starting NAC. Through ROC curve analysis, we determined the optimal cutoff value for NAR as 0.0877. We used Pearson's chi-square test or Fisher's exact test to evaluate the relationship between NAR and pCR, as well as other clinical and pathological characteristics. Logistic regression models were employed for univariate and multivariate analyses. Results: The results of both univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses showed that NAR was associated with tumor pathological regression. The NAR high group had a higher pCR rate compared to the NAR low group (OR 3.127 [95% CI 1.545– 6.328]; p = 0.002). Conclusion: According to this study, it was observed that patients with breast cancer who had high levels of NAR were more likely to achieve pCR when undergoing NAC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small fractions of patients suffer from radiotherapy late severe adverse events (AEs Grade ≥ 3), which are usually irreversible and badly affect their quality of life. A novel functional DNA repair assay characterizing several steps of double-strand break (DSB) repair mechanisms was used. DNA repair activities of peripheral blood mononuclear cells were monitored for 1 week using NEXT-SPOT assay in 177 breast and prostate cancer patients. Only seven patients had Grade ≥ 3 AEs, 6 months after radiotherapy initiation. The machine learning method established the importance of variables among demographic, clinical and DNA repair data. The most relevant ones, all related to DNA repair, were employed to build a predictor. Predictors constructed with random forest and minimum bounding sphere predicted late Grade ≥ 3 AEs with a sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 77.17 and 86.22%, respectively. This multiplex functional approach strongly supports a dominant role for DSB repair in the development of chronic AEs. It also showed that affected patients share specific features related to functional aspects of DSB repair. This strategy may be suitable for routine clinical analysis and paves the way for modelling DSB repair associated with severe AEs induced by radiotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Introduction In the current study, we screened for highly sensitive and specific predictors of premature birth, with the aim to establish an sPTB prediction model that is suitable for women in China and easy to operate and popularize, as well as to establish a sPTB prediction scoring system for early, intuitive, and effective assessment of premature birth risk. Methods A total of 685 pregnant women with a single pregnancy during the second trimester (16–26 weeks) were divided into premature and non-premature delivery groups based on their delivery outcomes. Clinical and ultrasound information were collected for both groups, and risk factors that could lead to sPTB in pregnant women were screened and analyzed using a cut-off value. A nomogram was developed to establish a prediction model and scoring system for sPTB. In addition, 119 pregnant women who met the inclusion criteria for the modeling cohort were included in the external validation of the model. The accuracy and consistency of the model were evaluated using the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) and C-calibration curves. Results Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed a significant correlation (P

Resumen: Introducción: Existe un incremento de las artropatías degenerativas como consecuencia del aumento en la longevidad de la población mundial, haciendo de las artroplastias primarias de rodilla un procedimiento para recuperar calidad de vida sin dolor. Existen factores asociados al tiempo de estancia hospitalaria después de este procedimiento. Objetivo: Determinar los factores que influyen en la estancia hospitalaria durante el postoperatorio de pacientes sometidos a artroplastia primaria total de rodilla con un protocolo de recuperación mejorada después de la cirugía (ERAS). Métodos: Se realiza un estudio retrospectivo de pacientes sometidos a artroplastia primaria total de rodilla en un hospital universitario en el período 2017-2020 mediante el protocolo ERAS, durante el cual se realizaron 957 cirugías. Resultados: La edad media fue de 71,7 ± 8,2 años, el 62,4% fueron mujeres y mayoritariamente ASA II (77,3%).Los factores asociados significativamente con el aumento de estancia hospitalaria son la edad (p = 0,001), el ASA (p = 0,04), el día de la cirugía (p

Introduction: Malnutrition is the most common nutritional disorder in developing countries and it remains one of the most common causes of morbidity and mortality among children worldwide. Therefore, the current study aimed to assess the prevalence of wasting and its associated factors among under-five children in Marrakesh province in Morocco. Method: A community-based cross-sectional study design was used to determine the prevalence of wasting and its associated factors among under-5 years old children. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from 430 children paired with their mothers. Anthropometric measurements and determinant factors were collected. SPSS version 19.0 statistical software was used for analysis. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify factors associated to the wasting of the children. Statistical association was declared significant if p value was less than0.05. Results: In this study, the prevalence of wasting was 9.3%. The proportions of severe and moderate wasting children were 6.5% and 2.8%, respectively. Higher odds of wasting children among illiterate mothers were 17 times more likely compared with mothers with high levels (ORa = 17.17; 95% CI: 1.01–13.70). In line with this, the odds of wasting children among lower household incomes were 13 times more likely when compared to those with higher household incomes (ORa = 13.114; 95% CI: 1.13–7.60). Similarly, the odds of wasting children among mothers primiparous were 12 times more likely compared with multiparous (ORa = 12.88; 95% CI: 1.04–4.08). The odds of wasting children were more observed among children who did not benefit from exclusive breastfeeding (ORa = 12.297; 95% CI: 2.47–13.03, 1.03–5.34). Conclusions: The current study showed that the prevalence of wasting among under-five children in Marrakesh province was relatively common. Mother’s education level, household income, parity, and exclusive breastfeeding were significantly associated with wasting. Therefore, nutritional educational intervention programs in Marrakesh province should focus on these factors.

Abstract Background Idiopathic acute transverse myelitis (IATM) is a focal inflammatory disorder of the spinal cord that results in motor, sensory, and autonomic dysfunction. However, the comparative analysis of MRI-negative and MRI-positive in IATM patients were rarely reported. Objectives The purpose of this study was to compare MRI-negative with MRI-positive groups in IATM patients, analyze the predictors for a poor prognosis, thus explore the relationship between MRI-negative and prognosis. Methods We selected 132 patients with first-attack IATM at the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University from May 2018 to May 2022. Patients were divided into MRI-positive and MRI-negative group according to whether there were responsible spinal MRI lesions, and good prognosis and poor prognosis based on whether the EDSS score ≥ 4 at follow-up. The predictive factors of poor prognosis in IATM patients was analyzed by logistic regression models. Results Of the 132 patients, 107 first-attack patients who fulfilled the criteria for IATM were included in the study. We showed that 43 (40%) patients had a negative spinal cord MRI, while 27 (25%) patients were identified as having a poor prognosis (EDSS score at follow-up ≥ 4). Compared with MRI-negative patients, the MRI-positive group was more likely to have back/neck pain, spinal cord shock and poor prognosis, and the EDSS score at follow-up was higher. We also identified three risk factors for a poor outcome: absence of second-line therapies, high EDSS score at nadir and a positive MRI result. Conclusions Compared with MRI-negative group, MRI-positive patients were more likely to have back/neck pain, spinal cord shock and poor prognosis, with a higher EDSS score at follow-up. The absence of second-line therapies, high EDSS score at nadir, and a positive MRI were risk factors for poor outcomes in patients with first-attack IATM. MRI-negative patients may have better prognosis, an active second-line immunotherapy for IATM patients may improve clinical outcome.

Psoriasis is a chronic and complex immune-mediated papulosquamous disease affecting almost 2% of the world population. The interaction between a genetically predisposed individual and environmental triggers leads to a vicious cycle involving autoreactive T cells, dendritic cells, keratinocytes and dermal cells. Up to 40% of the psoriasis cases develop disabling psoriatic arthritis and an equal number of patients also tend to develop metabolic syndrome as well as cardiovascular comorbidities; hence, this is no more considered to be a disease limited to skin only. Being a systemic disease, there is an urgent need to develop potential biomarkers for the assessment of disease severity, prediction of outcome of the therapeutic intervention and association with various systemic comorbidities. Diverse genetic markers not only function as predictors of diseases pathogenesis, but also help to predict development of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Personalised medicine is customising the therapeutic needs of a psoriasis patient and improving the outcome as per the hints we receive from the various biomarkers. This review deals with the list of potential biomarkers proposed to be useful in psoriasis, though there is limited data validating their routine use in clinical practice and the progress so far made in the field of precision medicine for psoriasis.

Introduction Identifying early predictive factors of how rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients respond to rituximab (RTX) treatment is crucial for both individual treatment outcome and the improvement of clinical practice overall. This study aimed to identify early predictive factors available in standard clinical practice for predicting RTX treatment outcomes in RA patients. Material and methods Data on seventy patients diagnosed with RA treated with RTX (two 1,000 mg doses 2 weeks apart or two 500 mg doses 2 weeks apart) were retrospectively collected. Baseline information collected at the initiation of RTX treatment included patient characteristics such as age, sex, disease duration, disease activity, Health Assessment Questionnaire score, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein, and serological status regarding rheumatoid factor and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies. Clinical responses were analyzed 6 months after RTX initiation using the European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology criteria. Potential predictors associated with positive RTX response at 6 months were identified using a multivariate ordinal logistic regression model. Results The analysis showed that persistently active RA disease, Disease Activity Score in 28 Joints (DAS28) values at the treatment onset and after 3 months, along with erythrocyte sedimentation rate at treatment initiation, were negatively correlated with the response to RTX therapy (p < 0.05). All these correlations were statistically significant at the 99% confidence interval. The correlation and logistic regression analyses indicate that there are no significant association between rheumatoid factor and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies concerning therapy response, despite a higher number of rituximab responders in the seropositive groups. Additionally, the study emphasizes the prognostic significance of the DAS28 value at treatment initiation in predicting therapy response at 6 months. Conclusions The optimal model for predicting RTX response at 6 months involves the interaction of all clinical factors examined in this study, as revealed by the analysis of multiple variables.

Abstract Aims Portal venous pressure frequently increases after a major hepatectomy. We aimed to assess the outcomes of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with different post‐hepatectomy portal pressure statuses and the predictive factors correlated with prognosis and post‐hepatectomy portal hypertension (PHPH). Methods Data from consecutive patients who underwent curative‐intent hepatectomy for HCC at the Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital and Mengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical University between January 2008 and December 2016 were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were followed up until March 1, 2022. PHPH was defined as new‐onset portal hypertension (PH) in patients without preoperative PH within 1 month of hepatectomy. Patients were classified into two groups according to the presence or absence of PHPH: non‐PH and PHPH. The clinicopathological characteristics were compared between the two groups. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to identify independent risk factors for early and late recurrence of HCC, overall survival (OS), and PHPH. Results Disease‐free survival rates were significantly higher in the non‐PH group (n = 1068) than those in the PHPH group (n = 423) (62.0%, 39.0%, and 31.0% vs. 46.2%, 24.5%, and 19.3% at 1, 3, and 5 years, respectively; all p 40 U/L, and major hepatectomy were identified as independent risk factors for PHPH. Conclusions PHPH was associated with early recurrence of HCC and poor OS but not with late recurrence. Therefore, PHPH may be an attractive target for therapeutic interventions and follow‐up surveillance to improve prognosis.

Abstract Background Older patients face increased sepsis risk, requiring precise prognostic tools in the emergency department (ED). This study aimed to explore factors predicting 28‐day mortality among older (≥60 years) patients with suspicion of sepsis in the ED. Methods We performed a retrospective cohort study. Data for all older patients with clinical suspected sepsis presenting to the ED from 1 October 2018 to 31 December 2018, were collected. Prognostic factors, characteristics, comorbidities, vital signs at triage, the emergency severity score, initial laboratory results, and sepsis bundle treatment were analyzed using univariable and multivariable Cox regression. Hazard ratios (HR) were calculated using these analytical methodologies to prognosticate 28‐day mortality. Results A total of 329 older patients with suspected sepsis were included. The overall 28‐day mortality was 10.33%. Independent prognostic factors that were significantly associated with 28‐day mortality were malignancy (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR]: 3.67; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.90, 7.09; p

Abstract The purpose of this research is to design a model of predictive factors of entrepreneurial opportunities in international companies. The research method is applicable in terms of purpose, and qualitative in terms of its implementation. The statistical population of the research includes 17 managers and experts active in the field of entrepreneurship, and the sampling was done in a purposeful and snowball manner, and the interviews continued until reaching theoretical saturation. The data collection tool is a semi-structured interview. Data-based method was used to collect and analyze data. Data analysis and pattern design were done in three stages of open, central, and selective coding. For data analysis, MAXQDA 18 software was used for coding. In the open coding stage, 305 preliminary codes were identified out of the analysis of the interviews. In the second stage; core coding based on research findings, the concept of entrepreneurial opportunities was chosen as the core phenomenon. Causal conditions were placed in the form of seven categories: unexpected events, changes based on industry and market structure, shortage based on methods, contradictory situation, change based on values and knowledge, new knowledge, and demographic characteristics; and the four main categories were selected include organizational strategies, market related strategies, business strategies, and effective performance management. Intervening factors were identified in two strengthening and weakening categories. Capital, corporate factors, social learning, gathering and studying information, individual characteristics, and social factors were determined as the background factors of entrepreneurial opportunities. Finally, the consequences of predictors of entrepreneurial opportunities were determined in two categories: financial and tangible, and non-financial and intangible. Extended Abstract Introduction According to entrepreneurship researchers, opportunity identification plays a very fundamental role in entrepreneurial activities. Entrepreneurship creates and recreates value for owners and beneficiaries, and opportunity is the heart of this process. Although opportunity recognition is considered the main characteristic of entrepreneurs and entrepreneurial activity does not occur without it, not all people are able to recognize opportunities; thus not all people can achieve entrepreneurial activities (Jaber et al, 2022). Several studies have been conducted regarding the factors affecting opportunity identification to become the basis for increasing the identification of entrepreneurial opportunities. However, due to the importance of identifying opportunities in the entrepreneurial process, there is still a gap in studies in this field (Virasa et al, 2022). Identifying entrepreneurial opportunities is a relatively new issue that is known as an effective and sustainable solution for the economic and social development of countries, and attracts the attention of wider sections of society every day. The importance of identifying entrepreneurial opportunities is due to the fact that finding predictive factors are effective in identifying profitable opportunities that can be implemented in most parts of the world. Our country is also on the path of taking steps towards development and progress, and putting forward a comprehensive research on factors predicting entrepreneurial opportunities in Iran can help accelerate the process of progress. On the other hand, Iran is a country that has a long and fruitful history in the field of entrepreneurial activities, and attention to a new approach in this field leads to the actualization of the potential capabilities in this field (Abdi, 2015). Based on this, the current research is looking for an answer to this question: How is the design of the model of predictive factors of entrepreneurial opportunities in international companies? Theoretical Framework Entrepreneurship Entrepreneurship is a management attitude that gives meaning to concepts such as innovation, flexibility and accountability based on understanding environmental opportunities. Organizational entrepreneurship occurs when an organization relies on the growth and use of new opportunities of internal and external factors of its organization (Davali et al, 2022). Entrepreneurial opportunities An entrepreneurial opportunity includes a set of ideas, beliefs, and actions that make it possible for them to create future products and services in the absence of current markets. Identifying an entrepreneurial opportunity is the understanding of the possibility of creating a new business or specifically improving the existing situation of a business in such a way that leads to a new profitability potential. In other words, identifying an entrepreneurial opportunity is the ability to identify a good idea and turn that idea into a business concept that has value and economic returns (Scott & Scott, 2016). Panahi et al, (2024) investigated the impact of entrepreneurial intention on students' entrepreneurial behavior regarding the moderating role of fear of failure and economic literacy. The results of the research showed that the variables of independence, innovation, and risk-taking of students have a positive and significant effect on entrepreneurial intention. Also, entrepreneurial intention has a positive and significant effect on entrepreneurial behavior. The fear of failure variable has a negative adjustment of the relationship between intention and behavior, and the economic literacy variable has a positive adjustment on this relationship. The research findings show the important role of personality traits on entrepreneurial intention and the importance of moderators introduced to fill the gap between entrepreneurial intention and behavior. Fries & Jilnek (2023) investigated the psychology of entrepreneurship: action and process in a research. This study reviews entrepreneurial psychology research in the last decade; and focuses on two key themes in entrepreneurship research: action, and process. By combining action and process in a model of entrepreneurial psychology, the process model presents the theory of entrepreneurial action, which is used as a guiding framework for investigation. Theories of action are discussed, such as cause/effect, bricolage, theory of planned behavior, and action theory. In addition, they adopt a process perspective to discuss the antecedents of actions in terms of cognition, motivation, and emotions; and how they develop during the entrepreneurial process. The results of the research showed that the action theory process model is a useful starting point for explaining the psychological dynamics of entrepreneurship. Research methodology The research method is applicable in terms of purpose, and qualitative in terms of its implementation. The statistical population of the research includes 17 managers and experts active in the field of entrepreneurship, and the sampling was done in a purposeful and snowball manner, and the interviews continued until reaching theoretical saturation. The data collection tool is a semi-structured interview. Data-based method was used to collect and analyze data. Research findings Data analysis and pattern design were done in three stages of open, central, and selective coding. For data analysis, MAXQDA 18 software was used for coding. In the open coding stage, 305 preliminary codes were identified out of the analysis of the interviews. In the second stage; core coding based on research findings, the concept of entrepreneurial opportunities was chosen as the core phenomenon. Causal conditions were placed in the form of seven categories: unexpected events, changes based on industry and market structure, shortage based on methods, contradictory situation, change based on values and knowledge, new knowledge, and demographic characteristics; and the four main categories were selected include organizational strategies, market related strategies, business strategies, and effective performance management. Intervening factors were identified in two strengthening and weakening categories. Capital, corporate factors, social learning, gathering and studying information, individual characteristics, and social factors were determined as the background factors of entrepreneurial opportunities. Finally, the consequences of predictors of entrepreneurial opportunities were determined in two categories: financial and tangible, and non-financial and intangible. Conclusion The current research was conducted with the aim of designing a model of predictive factors of entrepreneurial opportunities in international companies. The results of this research are in agreement with the results of Panahi et al, (2024), Fries & Jilnek (2023), Abadeh et al, (2022), BurujAli (2022), Jaber et al, (2022), Doanh (2021), Bazkiaei et al, (2020), Hamzeh Ni Tehrani et al, (2022), Ghanizadeh et al, (2020), Zivodar (2019), Ahmadi et al, (2018), and Vaghely & Julien (2015). Hamzeh Ni Tehrani et al, (2022) in their research confirmed the factors of personality characteristics and environmental factors as strengthening factors in discovering entrepreneurial opportunities. Effective strategies on the discovery of entrepreneurial opportunities were also, by identifying sixty-five concepts, placed in the form of six sub-categories and four main categories of organizational strategies, market-related strategies, business strategies, and effective performance management. According to the results of the research, the following suggestions are presented: - continuous monitoring of changes and trends in society; these changes, which are influenced by social and economic factors and government policies, create new challenges and opportunities for companies that can make the best use of these opportunities with careful planning; - Creating an open communication channel in the company environment; If there is no open communication in the workplace, people's creativity will be damaged. To bring innovation to the workplace, employees must be informed that the door is always open for discussion

Abstract Epilepsy surgery is effective for patients with medication-resistant seizures, however 20–40% of them are not seizure free after surgery. Aim of this study is to evaluate the role of linear and non-linear EEG features to predict post-surgical outcome. We included 123 paediatric patients who underwent epilepsy surgery at Bambino Gesù Children Hospital (January 2009–April 2020). All patients had long term video-EEG monitoring. We analysed 1-min scalp interictal EEG (wakefulness and sleep) and extracted 13 linear and non-linear EEG features (power spectral density (PSD), Hjorth, approximate entropy, permutation entropy, Lyapunov and Hurst value). We used a logistic regression (LR) as feature selection process. To quantify the correlation between EEG features and surgical outcome we used an artificial neural network (ANN) model with 18 architectures. LR revealed a significant correlation between PSD of alpha band (sleep), Mobility index (sleep) and the Hurst value (sleep and awake) with outcome. The fifty-four ANN models gave a range of accuracy (46–65%) in predicting outcome. Within the fifty-four ANN models, we found a higher accuracy (64.8% ± 7.6%) in seizure outcome prediction, using features selected by LR. The combination of PSD of alpha band, mobility and the Hurst value positively correlate with good surgical outcome.

Abstract Background To determine the prevalence, clinical characteristics, and independent predictors of uveitic macular edema (UME) in patients with intermediate, posterior and panuveitis. Methods We retrospectively reviewed the records of patients with intermediate, posterior, and panuveitis who underwent macular assessment using optical coherence tomography between January 2015 and February 2020. The prevalence of UME and clinical characteristics of the patients were described. Predictors of UME were identified using multivariate regression analysis. Results A total of 349 patients were included. The mean age was 41 years, female: male ratio was 1.3:1. The prevalence of UME was 51.9%. UME was found in 33.9%, 56.9%, and 54.1% of the intermediate, posterior, and panuveitis cases, respectively. Among patients with UME, 47% had infectious uveitis, 32.6% had idiopathic uveitis, and 20.4% had immune-mediated uveitis. Diffuse macular edema was the most frequently observed pattern (36.5%). Multivariate analysis showed that factors independently associated with UME included age at uveitis onset (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.01, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.00-1.03, P = 0.036), PU and panuveitis compared with intermediate uveitis (aOR 2.09, 95% CI 1.14–3.86, P = 0.018), and infectious uveitis compared with noninfectious uveitis (aOR 2.13, 95% CI 1.34–3.37, P = 0.001). Conclusions Increasing age at uveitis onset, posterior/panuveitis, and infectious etiology are predictive factors for UME in patients with intermediate, posterior and panuveitis.

Abstract Background High tumor recurrence and dismal survival rates after curative intended resection for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are still concerning. The primary goal was to assess predictive factors associated with disease-free (DFS) and overall survival (OS) in a subset of patients with HCC undergoing hepatic resection (HR). Methods Between 08/2004–7/2021, HR for HCC was performed in 188 patients at our institution. Data allocation was conducted from a prospectively maintained database. The prognostic impact of clinico-pathological factors on DFS and OS was assessed by using uni- and multivariate Cox regression analyses. Survival curves were generated with the Kaplan Meier method. Results The postoperative 1-, 3- and 5- year overall DFS and OS rates were 77.9%, 49.7%, 41% and 72.7%, 54.7%, 38.8%, respectively. Tumor diameter ≥ 45 mm [HR 1.725; (95% CI 1.091–2.727); p = 0.020], intra-abdominal abscess [HR 3.812; (95% CI 1.859–7.815); p

Abstract Background Cervical cancer is the second most prevalent and the leading cause of cancer related deaths among Ethiopian women; and about three fourth are diagnosed at advanced stages. Cervical cancer can affect the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in multiple ways. The main aim of this study was to describe the HRQOL of cervical cancer patients and the predictive factors using validated tools. Methods Institution based cross-sectional study was conducted among 264 cervical cancer patients using the validated Amharic version of European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) modules; QLQ-C30 and QLQ CX24. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the raw data. One way ANOVA was used to determine the significance of mean differences between the dependent and independent variables. Binary and multivariable regression analysis were used to measure the association between Global Health Status and independent factors. The level of significance was set at p-value

Abstract Aims The aim of the study was to assess the incidence and predictive factors of the development of heart failure with improved ejection fraction (HFimpEF) category during a 1 year follow‐up period in a heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) patient population managed in a heart failure outpatient clinic. Methods and results The study evaluated data from patients enrolled in the Hungarian Heart Failure Registry (HHFR). The incidence and predictive factors of the development of the HFimpEF category after 1 year follow‐up were assessed in the group of patients who had HFrEF at baseline. We evaluated the incidence and predictors of the development of HFimpEF after a 1 year follow‐up in relation to time since diagnosis of HFrEF in patients diagnosed within 3 months, between 3 months and 1 year, and beyond 1 year. The predictive factors of the development of HFimpEF were analysed using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis. Of the 833 HFrEF patients enrolled in the HHFR, the development of HFimpEF was observed in 162 patients (19.5%) during 1 year follow‐up. In the whole patient population, independent predictors of the development of HFimpEF were female gender [odds ratio (OR): 1.73; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.01–2.96; P

Background: This study aims to explore the clinical value of low disease activity state (LDAS) in the treat-to-target strategy of pediatric systemic lupus erythematosus (pSLE) and find the risk factors for never reaching LDAS. Methods: A total of 272 children with SLE who were diagnosed and followed up in two tertiary hospitals in China during the period from January 2012 to December 2019 were involved in this study, and the clinical presentation, pathology, and treatment were retrospectively studied. Results: The male-to-female ratio was 1:5.2, the age at diagnosis was 11.1 years (IQR, 9.8-13.1 years), the disease duration was 1.0 month (IQR, 0.5-2.0 months), and follow-up was 36.5 months (IQR, 25.7-50.9 months). During follow-up, 230 children achieved LDAS, and 42 were never been in. Male (P = 0.018), mucosal ulcer (P = 0.048), liver function damage (P = 0.026), cardiac effusion (P = 0.034), anemia (P = 0.048), urine red blood cells (P = 0.017), urinary leukocytes (P = 0.032), and endothelial cell proliferation in renal biopsy (P = 0.004)--these indexes have statistical differences between the two groups in the baseline. At baseline, endothelial cell proliferation (P = 0.02) is an independent risk factor for never achieving LDAS by multivariate logistic analysis. During follow-up, non-compliance was a risk factor for never achieving LDAS by comparing between groups. Children with biologics achieved LDAS at a higher rate than children without biologics (P = 0.038). The proportion of organ damage in patients never been in LDAS was significantly higher than that in patients who achieved LDAS (P < 0.001). Conclusion: Endothelial cell proliferation in renal biopsy and non-compliance during follow-up were independent risk factors for never achieving LDAS. At the end of the follow-up, the organ damage in the remission group was similar to that in the LDAS group, indicating that LDAS can be used as a target for pSLE treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many studies on gastric cancer treatment have identified predictors of immunotherapy benefits. This article provides an update on the major developments in research related to predictive factors of immunotherapy for gastric cancer. We used the search term "predictive factors, immunotherapy, gastric cancer" to find the most current publications in the PubMed database related to predictive factors of immunotherapy in gastric cancer. Programmed cell death, genetic, and immunological factors are the main study topics of immunotherapy's predictive factors in gastric cancer. Other preventive factors for immunotherapy in gastric cancer were also found, including clinical factors, tumor microenvironment factors, imaging factors, and extracellular factors. Since there is currently no effective treatment for gastric cancer, we strongly propose that these studies be prioritized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is an effective and safe treatment for achalasia, but often leads to posttreatment gastroesophageal reflux disease. The aim of this study was to examine the incidence and severity of reflux esophagitis after POEM and to identify associated predictive factors. Methods: Patients who underwent POEM between August 2011 and December 2022 were included. Multivariate logistic regression was used to assess predictive factors for reflux esophagitis after POEM. Key Results: In total, 252 patients were included; of which, 46% were female and age ranged between 18 and 87 years. Reflux esophagitis within 1 year after POEM was observed in 131 patients (52%), which was severe in 29 patients (LA grade C/D, 12%). Length of full‐thickness myotomy (cm; OR 1.11, 95% CI 1.02–1.21), Eckardt scores before POEM (OR 0.84, 95% CI 0.74–0.96), previous pneumatic dilation (OR 0.51, 95% CI 0.29–0.91), and previous laparoscopic Heller myotomy (LHM; OR 0.44, 95% CI 0.23–0.86) were associated with reflux esophagitis after POEM. Alcohol use (none vs > 7 units per week; OR 3.51, 95% CI 1.35–9.11) and overweight (BMI ≥25 kg/m2; OR 2.67, 95% CI 1.17–6.09) were positive predictive factors and previous LHM (OR 0.13, 95% CI 0.02–0.95) was a negative predictive factor for severe reflux esophagitis after POEM (LA grade C/D). Conclusion: About half of the patients develop reflux esophagitis after POEM and 12% is graded as severe. Recognizing predictive factors of reflux esophagitis after POEM treatment leads to better patient selection before POEM and provides an opportunity to take preventive measures or start preemptive treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heart failure is associated with a significant mortality rate, and an elevated prevalence of this condition has been noted among hypertensive patients. The identification of predictive factors for heart failure progression in hypertensive individuals is crucial for early intervention and improved patient outcomes. In this study, we aimed to identify these predictive factors by utilizing medical diagnosis records for hypertension patients from the MIMIC-IV database. In particular, we employed only diagnostic history prior to hypertension to enable patients to anticipate the onset of heart failure at the moment of hypertension diagnosis. In the methodology, chi-square tests and XGBoost modeling were applied to examine age-specific predictive factors across four groups: AL (all ages), G1 (0 to 65 years), G2 (65 to 80 years), and G3 (over 80 years). As a result, the chi-square tests identified 34, 28, 20, and 10 predictive factors for the AL, G1, G2, and G3 groups, respectively. Meanwhile, the XGBoost modeling uncovered 19, 21, 27, and 33 predictive factors for these respective groups. Ultimately, our findings reveal 21 overall predictive factors, encompassing conditions such as atrial fibrillation, the use of anticoagulants, kidney failure, obstructive pulmonary disease, and anemia. These factors were assessed through a comprehensive review of the existing literature. We anticipate that the results will offer valuable insights for the risk assessment of heart failure in hypertensive patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Predictors for response to intensive therapy in AML have focused on baseline factors: percent leukemic blasts in marrow, cytogenetic/molecular genetic abnormalities, and presence of secondary AML. Non-baseline dynamic factors, occurring after induction but before response, may be useful for decisions related to salvage chemotherapy. We hypothesized white blood cell (WBC) count nadir after induction may be a real time indicator of treatment efficacy. We also examined whether time to stem cell transplant (SCT) or baseline molecular genetic abnormalities are associated with a low nadir. Data showed WBC nadir = 0 was a negative predictor for response to intensive induction and was correlated with reduced overall survival and progression free survival. Patients with WBC nadir = 0 did not have a significantly longer time to SCT, and none of the mutations increased the likelihood of reaching WBC nadir = 0. WBC nadir may be a useful real-time monitor in AML patients receiving intensive induction chemotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Older patients face increased sepsis risk, requiring precise prognostic tools in the emergency department (ED). This study aimed to explore factors predicting 28‐day mortality among older (≥60 years) patients with suspicion of sepsis in the ED. Methods: We performed a retrospective cohort study. Data for all older patients with clinical suspected sepsis presenting to the ED from 1 October 2018 to 31 December 2018, were collected. Prognostic factors, characteristics, comorbidities, vital signs at triage, the emergency severity score, initial laboratory results, and sepsis bundle treatment were analyzed using univariable and multivariable Cox regression. Hazard ratios (HR) were calculated using these analytical methodologies to prognosticate 28‐day mortality. Results: A total of 329 older patients with suspected sepsis were included. The overall 28‐day mortality was 10.33%. Independent prognostic factors that were significantly associated with 28‐day mortality were malignancy (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR]: 3.67; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.90, 7.09; p < 0.01), oxygen saturation ≤93% (aHR: 3.37; 95% CI: 1.79, 3.43; p < 0.01), and dependent status (hazard ratio [HR]: 2.27; 95% CI: 1.14, 4.53; p = 0.02). Conclusions: This study suggests that "MOD"; M‐Malignancy, O‐Oxygen saturation ≤93%, and D‐Dependent status are significant prognostic indicators for 28‐day mortality among older patients with suspected sepsis in the ED. Trial registration: The trial was retrospectively registered in the Thai Clinical Trial Registry on 06/05/2022, identification number TCTR20220506006. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Complications arising during non-operative management (NOM) of blunt hepatic and/or splenic trauma, particularly in cases of severe injury, are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Abdominal computed tomography (CT) is the gold standard for the initial detection of complications during NOM. Although many institutions advocate routine in-hospital follow-up scans to improve success rates, others recommend a more selective approach. The use of follow-up CT remains a subject of ongoing debate, with no validated guidelines available regarding the timing, effectiveness, or intervals of follow-up imaging. Objective: We aimed to identify the clinical parameters for the early detection of complications in patients with blunt hepatic and/or splenic injury undergoing NOM. Materials and methods: This retrospective cohort study included patients with blunt hepatic and/or splenic trauma treated at Songklanagarind Hospital, a level 1 trauma center, from 2013 to 2022. We assessed all patients indicated for non-operative management and examined their clinical parameters and complications. Results: Of 542 patients with blunt hepatic and/or splenic injuries, 315 (58%) were managed non-operatively. High-grade hepatic injuries were significantly associated with complications, as determined through a multivariate logistic regression analysis after adjusting for factors such as contrast blush findings, age, sex, and injury severity score (ISS) (adjusted OR = 7.69, 95% CI 1.59–37.13; p = 0.011). Among the patients with complications (n = 27), 17 (63%) successfully underwent non-operative management. Notably, eight patients presented with clinical symptoms prior to the diagnosis of complications, while only two patients had no clinical symptoms before the diagnosis. Tachycardia, abdominal pain, decreased hematocrit levels, and fever were significant indicators of complications (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Routine CT to detect complications may not be necessary in patients with asymptomatic low-grade blunt hepatic injuries. By contrast, in those with isolated blunt hepatic injuries that are managed non-operatively, high-grade injuries, the presence of a contrast blush on initial imaging, and the patient's age may warrant consideration for routine follow-up CT scans. Clinical symptoms and laboratory observations during NOM, such as tachycardia, abdominal pain, decreased hematocrit levels, and fever, are significantly associated with complications. These symptoms necessitate further management, regardless of the initial injury severity, in patients with blunt hepatic and/or splenic injuries undergoing NOM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To assess the ability of the aortic aneurysm volume (AAV), aneurysmal lumen volume (ALV), and aneurysmal thrombus volume (ATV) to predict the need for aortic reintervention when using the maximal aortic diameter as a reference. Methods: This monocentric retrospective study included 31 consecutive patients who underwent successful thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) to treat an atheromatous thoracic aortic aneurysm. All patients underwent clinical and computed tomography angiography (CTA) for 3 years after TEVAR. The patients were categorized into group 0 if no aortic reintervention was required during the follow-up period and categorized into group 1 if they experienced a type I or III endoleak or aneurysm diameter increase requiring intervention. The maximum aneurysm sac diameter and the AAV, ALV, and ATV were calculated using CTA images obtained preoperatively (T0) and at 6–12 months (T1), 24 months (T2), and 36 months (T3) postoperatively, and their changes over time were analyzed. Correlations between diameter and changes in AAV, ALV, and ATV were assessed, and the association between diameter and volume changes and reintervetion was examined. The cutoff values for predicting the need for reintervention was determined using a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. The accuracy of volume change versus diameter change for predicting the need for reintervention was analyzed. Results: There were no significant differences in terms of the mean aneurysm diameter or AAV, ALV or ATV between the groups at preoperative CTA or after one year of follow-up imaging. The mean ATV was higher in group 1 than in group 0 at 2 years (187.6 ± 86.3 mL vs. 114.7 ± 64.7 mL; p = 0.057) and after 3 years (195.0 ± 86.7 mL vs. 82.1 ± 39.9 mL; p = 0.013). The maximal diameter was greater in group 1 than in group 0 at 3 years (67.3 ± 9.5 mm vs. 55.3 ± 12.6 mm; p = 0.044). The rate of AAV change between T0 and T1 was significantly higher in group 1 (7 ± 4.5%) than in group 0 (−6 ± 6.8%; p < 0.001). The rate of ATV change between T1-T3 was significantly higher in group 1 than in group 0 (34 ± 40.9% vs. −13 ± 14.4% (p = 0.041)); similar results were observed for the rate of ATV change between T2 and T3 (27 ± 50.1% for group 1 vs. −8 ± 49.5% in group 0 (p < 0.001)). According to our multivariate analysis, the annual growth rate for AAV between T0 and T1 was the only independent factor that was significantly associated with aortic reintervention (area under the curve (AUC) = 0.84, OR = 1.57, p = 0.025; optimal cutoff +0.4%). An increase in the annual growth rate of the ATV between T0 and T3 was independently associated with the need for aortic reintervention (area under the curve (AUC) = 0.90, OR = 1.11, p = 0.0347; optimal cutoff +10.1%). Conclusions: Aortic volume analysis can predict the need for aortic reintervention more accurately and earlier than maximal aortic diameter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epilepsy surgery is effective for patients with medication-resistant seizures, however 20–40% of them are not seizure free after surgery. Aim of this study is to evaluate the role of linear and non-linear EEG features to predict post-surgical outcome. We included 123 paediatric patients who underwent epilepsy surgery at Bambino Gesù Children Hospital (January 2009–April 2020). All patients had long term video-EEG monitoring. We analysed 1-min scalp interictal EEG (wakefulness and sleep) and extracted 13 linear and non-linear EEG features (power spectral density (PSD), Hjorth, approximate entropy, permutation entropy, Lyapunov and Hurst value). We used a logistic regression (LR) as feature selection process. To quantify the correlation between EEG features and surgical outcome we used an artificial neural network (ANN) model with 18 architectures. LR revealed a significant correlation between PSD of alpha band (sleep), Mobility index (sleep) and the Hurst value (sleep and awake) with outcome. The fifty-four ANN models gave a range of accuracy (46–65%) in predicting outcome. Within the fifty-four ANN models, we found a higher accuracy (64.8% ± 7.6%) in seizure outcome prediction, using features selected by LR. The combination of PSD of alpha band, mobility and the Hurst value positively correlate with good surgical outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to ascertain the prevalence and risk factors for developing staphylococcal urinary tract infections (UTIs) in the Casablanca area of Morocco. Methods: In Casablanca, Morocco, a retrospective evaluation of 772 UTIs patients was conducted between January 2020 and December 2022. The research included two groups of patients: those with staphylococcal UTIs and those without. Sex, age, chronic illnesses, antibiotic exposure, urinary catheterization, urological surgery, and UTIs history were the risk variables assessed. We employed a logistic regression model to identify the characteristics that were predictive of staphylococcal UTIs. Results: Eight staphylococcal species were responsible for 16.84% of UTIs in 772 non-repeating individuals. Patients infected with S. saprophyticus (35.38%) were the most common, followed by those infected with S. epidermidis (24.61%), S. aureus (13.85%), and S. hemolyticus (10.78%). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that male sex (95% CI: 0.261–0.563), immunosuppression and immunosuppressive treatments (95% CI: 0.0068–0.64), chronic diseases (95% CI: 0.407–0.965), previous UTIs (95% CI: 0.031–0.228), frequency of urination more than 8 times a day (95% CI:1.04–3.29), frequency of urination once or twice a day (95% CI: 1.05–2.39), and urinary catheterization (95% CI: 0.02–0.22) were the most likely predictors of staphylococcal UTIs. In addition, a larger proportion of patients with staphylococcal UTIs were made aware of the risk factors associated with staphylococcal UTIs (52.31%, χ2 = 4.82, = 0.014). Conclusions: This is the first global study to evaluate the predictive factors for acquiring UTIs caused by staphylococci. Monitoring these factors will enable medical authorities to devise effective strategies for managing UTIs and combating antibiotic resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]