S A Rahimi

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This study looked at how likely pregnant women are to use a mobile app to help them make decisions about prenatal screening for genetic conditions like Down syndrome (trisomy 21), and others (trisomies 18 and 13). Out of 67 women surveyed, those who believed that the app would be helpful and who felt positive social pressure from others were more likely to want to use it, explaining nearly 78% of their intentions. The findings highlight the importance of promoting the benefits of mobile decision aids to help more women make informed choices during pregnancy. Who this helps: This helps pregnant women by giving them better tools to make important health decisions.

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This study looked at how cough sounds can help detect COVID-19 among people in two different locations: Lima, Peru, and Montreal, Canada. Researchers analyzed cough recordings from 605 adults and found that models used to identify COVID-19 from cough sounds worked better in Lima (71% accuracy) than in Montreal (53% accuracy). This is important because it shows that cough characteristics vary by location, which affects how well these detection tools can be used globally. Who this helps: This helps researchers and healthcare providers develop better COVID-19 screening tools adapted for different populations.

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This study looked at how training using the WHO AWaRe Antibiotic Handbook affected the knowledge of private primary care providers (PCPs) in Patna, India, about prescribing antibiotics. After training 145 providers, the results showed a significant decrease in inappropriate antibiotic prescribing for conditions like acute diarrhea and urinary tract infections, with a drop in prescribing wrong antibiotics from around 60% to about 30% for those conditions. This is important because better antibiotic prescribing helps combat antibiotic resistance and improves patient care. Who this helps: Patients, especially those suffering from common infections like diarrhea and UTIs.

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This study examined how artificial intelligence (AI) is being used to identify frailty in patients, which is important for early intervention. Researchers reviewed 33 academic publications and found 23 different AI techniques being tested, with the most common ones being logistic regression and decision trees. However, there was no consistent definition of frailty across these studies, and user feedback was largely missing, which could affect how effective and equitable these tools are in practice. Who this helps: This helps doctors and healthcare providers who need better tools to identify frail patients early on.

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This study looked at creating a clear plan, called the DECIDE-Twin framework, for using AI-powered virtual models (known as digital twins) to improve clinical decision-making in healthcare. Researchers reviewed 11 articles and found that to build these models effectively, it's essential to follow specific steps that were outlined in their framework. This is important because it helps standardize how digital twins can be developed and used, making healthcare decisions better and more informed. Who this helps: This helps doctors and healthcare providers improve patient care through better decision-making tools.

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This paper explores the use of escape room games in medical education to improve students' knowledge and engagement. Researchers found that these interactive experiences help students develop teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills, leading to significant increases in student confidence and engagement. However, they also noted challenges, such as potential distractions and anxiety, and stress the need for careful design to maximize the educational benefits. Who this helps: This helps medical students and educators improve learning experiences in training programs.

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This research paper looked at how principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) are applied in the development and use of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare. The study analyzed 42 research articles and found that while incorporating factors like gender and race can enhance AI models, there is currently no thorough approach to consistently apply EDI principles throughout the entire AI process, from design to implementation. This is important because improving EDI in healthcare AI could lead to fairer and more effective treatments for diverse populations. Who this helps: Patients from various backgrounds who rely on AI-driven healthcare solutions.

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This study looked at a new way to predict the risk of dying within 30 days after surgery for a ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm (rAAA), called the modified Harborview Risk Score (mHRS). Researchers analyzed data from 69 patients and found that the overall death rate was 38%, with 30% for those who had a less invasive surgery and 58% for those who had open surgery. The mHRS was found to be a more effective tool for predicting mortality than the traditional score, and it uses simpler tests that are easier for doctors to obtain. Who this helps: This benefits doctors and their patients by providing a better way to assess surgery risks.

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This study looked at whether the modified frailty index (mFI-11) could be used to predict how likely patients were to experience death or health problems one year after surgery for a ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm (rAAA). Researchers analyzed 78 patients and found that the overall one-year death rate was 40%, with 49% of frail patients dying compared to 33% of non-frail patients, but the differences weren't statistically significant. The findings suggest that the mFI-11 isn't a reliable tool for predicting long-term outcomes after rAAA repair, highlighting the need for better risk assessment methods. Who this helps: This helps doctors and healthcare teams better understand how to evaluate and counsel patients after rAAA surgery.

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This study looked at a new way of assessing medical students called stealth assessment, which measures learning without causing anxiety and is integrated into real learning experiences. It found that this method not only helps students learn better but also evaluates important skills, like empathy and ethical decision-making, that traditional tests often miss. Using technology to simplify feedback and analysis, stealth assessment can lead to more self-directed and reflective learning, ultimately helping to produce better healthcare professionals. Who this helps: This benefits medical students and their future patients.

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This study looked at a 65-year-old man who had two types of aneurysms: a common femoral artery aneurysm and an abdominal aortic aneurysm. Instead of doing surgeries separately, doctors successfully fixed both aneurysms at the same time using a combination of traditional and modern surgical techniques. This approach not only made the surgery possible but also resulted in good recovery for the patient, showing that simultaneous treatment can be effective for patients with multiple aneurysms. Who this helps: This helps patients with multiple aneurysms needing surgical repair.

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This study examined how toxic palm oil mill waste impacts zebrafish, specifically looking at their growth, behavior, and health. The researchers found that when zebrafish were exposed to harmful levels of the waste (up to 9.968 mL/L), their size and weight decreased significantly, and they showed unusual behaviors like hyperactivity and balance issues. The fish also suffered damage to their gill and liver tissues, which affected their ability to breathe and detoxify, ultimately leading to their death. Who this helps: This research helps environmental regulators and the palm oil industry in managing waste to protect aquatic life.

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This study looked at a patient who experienced serious complications after being treated for leg pain caused by poor blood flow. The patient had stents (small tubes to keep blood vessels open) incorrectly placed in several arteries, leading to a complete blockage in one leg. This situation highlights the risks associated with overly aggressive treatments for leg pain, as it can lead to severe problems that require immediate medical attention. Who this helps: This helps doctors and patients with peripheral arterial disease understand the risks of certain treatments.

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This study examined whether a person's socioeconomic status and insurance type affect the outcomes after a surgery called open lower extremity revascularization, which improves blood flow in the legs. Researchers found that socioeconomic status, measured by the Area Deprivation Index, did not impact the risk of dying, experiencing major limb complications, or how long patients stayed in the hospital. However, uninsured patients were more likely to die after the procedure compared to those with insurance. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors and healthcare providers by highlighting the risks faced by uninsured patients.

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Doctors create dialysis access points (tubes connecting arteries and veins) by first mapping veins with ultrasound to find the best location. However, this study found that veins appear smaller on ultrasound than they actually are because patients are dehydrated and cold. When doctors gave patients a nerve block anesthetic before surgery, it relaxed their blood vessels and made veins larger—so the researchers repeated the vein mapping after the nerve block to see if they could find better access locations. In 63% of cases, the second ultrasound revealed better vein options than the first one, and these better-located access points worked just as well as the originally planned locations.

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This study focused on creating a tool to help prioritize access to communication services for people with chronic disabilities in Quebec, Canada. Researchers found that out of 48 criteria discussed, eight were deemed most important for prioritizing patients: safety, potential for development, psychological well-being, physical well-being, life prognosis, impact on social environment, interpersonal relationships, and social responsibilities. These criteria will help ensure that patients who need augmentative and alternative communication services receive care more quickly and effectively. Who this helps: This benefits patients with chronic disabilities and their caregivers.

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This study tested a new tool designed to help pregnant women and their partners make decisions about prenatal screening for trisomy, which is a genetic condition. Out of 39 participants, the tool received a high average usefulness score of 86.2%, with most people feeling the information was well-balanced and informative. However, they also pointed out that the way the information was presented could be improved. Who this helps: This benefits pregnant women and their partners by providing clearer guidance on prenatal screening options.

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This research explores how artificial intelligence (AI) systems may be biased against older adults. The study aims to review various sources looking for evidence of age-related bias in AI, such as in facial recognition, and its legal and ethical implications. With an initial search yielding nearly 7,600 records, the findings will reveal important insights that could help shape fairer AI technology for older populations. Who this helps: This helps older adults and professionals developing AI technologies.

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This study looked at how the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), a measure of inflammation, affects outcomes for patients undergoing surgery to improve blood flow in the legs. Researchers analyzed data from 535 patients and found that a higher NLR was linked to an increased risk of death after surgery, with a significant cutoff point for predicting mortality (P<0.0001), while it did not correlate with the risk of major limb complications (P=0.8). Additionally, patients with elevated NLR had longer hospital stays, averaging 6.5 days compared to 4 days for those with lower NLR (P=0.027). Who this helps: This research benefits patients undergoing lower limb surgeries by identifying a key indicator that can predict their risk of mortality.

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This study focused on a computer tool designed to help pregnant women and their partners understand and make decisions about trisomy screening, which looks for genetic conditions in the fetus. It involved feedback from 45 pregnant women, 14 clinicians, and 8 policy makers, with pregnant women giving it a high usefulness score of 80 out of 100, and reporting an 88 out of 100 in confidence about their decision-making. The findings show that the tool is effective and well-received, indicating its potential role in improving prenatal care and informed decision-making. Who this helps: Pregnant women and their partners.

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This study looked at how vascular surgeons helped with various surgeries over nearly a decade, analyzing 437 cases where their expertise was needed. It found that 39% of these cases involved urgent situations, and vascular surgeons played a vital role in addressing complications, with a hospital death rate of 12.1%. This research highlights how important vascular surgeons are in ensuring safe surgical care across different types of surgeries. Who this helps: This benefits patients undergoing surgery, especially those with complex or urgent needs.

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This study looked at the outcomes for women and men following elective surgery to repair abdominal aortic aneurysms, specifically focusing on how sex affects recovery and survival rates. Researchers reviewed records of 273 patients and found that women experienced higher rates of complications and lower survival rates over five years—48% of women survived compared to 65% of men. It also showed that women were more likely to be readmitted within 30 days after surgery, with an 18% rate for women versus 8% for men. Who this helps: This information is important for doctors treating women with abdominal aortic aneurysms, helping them better understand the risks and manage care accordingly.

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This study looked at over 108,000 patients who had kidney surgery to see how having a blood clot (venous thromboembolism or VTE) before surgery affected their outcomes. Researchers found that 1.2% of these patients had VTE, and those patients faced higher risks: they were 2.5 times more likely to have major complications and twice as likely to die within 90 days after surgery compared to those without VTE. This matters because it highlights the need for careful evaluation and management of patients with VTE before kidney surgery to improve their chances of recovery and reduce healthcare costs. Who this helps: This helps doctors and patients with kidney conditions considering surgery.

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This study looked at a specific treatment called AngioJet rheolytic thrombectomy, which is used to remove blood clots in the arteries. The researchers found that this treatment can lead to serious kidney problems, known as acute kidney injury (AKI), that last longer than expected in some patients. Despite this, the kidneys can eventually recover without the need for dialysis, which is important because it highlights a potential way to manage these kidney issues after the procedure. Who this helps: This benefits patients who undergo AngioJet treatment for blood clots.

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This study looked at how well dental clinics in western Iran follow safety rules for using X-ray machines. They found that while 97.3% of the clinics took safety measures to protect patients, only 1.4% used important protections for the workers, like high-speed film. This matters because it highlights a gap in safety for dental staff, which could put them at risk for radiation exposure. Who this helps: This helps dental workers and patients who rely on safe practices in dental radiography.

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This study focused on creating a new online tool called CONCERTO+ to enhance communication among patients with chronic diseases, their caregivers, and healthcare teams. After working closely with patients and caregivers, the researchers made several improvements to ensure the tool meets their needs. The final version of CONCERTO+ is ready to be used in actual healthcare settings, which could help improve how chronic diseases are managed. Who this helps: This helps patients with chronic diseases and their caregivers.

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Researchers studied how a protein called PTEN affects breast cancer cells and their ability to invade other tissues and act like stem cells, which can create new tumors. They found that adding back PTEN to cancer cells that didn't have it changed them from a more invasive form to a less invasive one and reduced their stem cell characteristics. Specifically, they discovered that PTEN works by affecting another protein called Abi1, which is linked to the spread of cancer. Who this helps: This helps patients with breast cancer by potentially reducing the aggressiveness of their tumors.

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This study looked at a rare condition called visceral artery pseudoaneurysm (PSA) linked to the superior mesenteric artery, which is important for supplying blood to the intestines. The researchers successfully treated a patient's PSA using a minimally invasive method called endovascular coil embolization, which helped eliminate the aneurysm while maintaining healthy blood flow to the intestines. This finding highlights the effectiveness of less intrusive treatment options for patients who may not be suited for traditional surgery. Who this helps: This helps patients with visceral artery pseudoaneurysms, especially those unable to undergo major surgery.

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This study focused on refining the accuracy of radiation dose measurements for small areas during cancer treatment using special correction factors. Researchers calculated these correction factors for different detector types at two energies, finding that the measurements were generally accurate, with values very close to 1.0, indicating reliability. For example, the correction factor for the smallest field size of 5 mm was 0.994 for one type of detector at the lower energy setting, showing precise calibration is possible for small fields. Who this helps: Patients undergoing radiation therapy for cancers with small treatment areas benefit from these more accurate dose measurements.

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The study focused on understanding how to encourage pregnant women to use a decision aid that helps them choose whether to screen for Down syndrome. Researchers found that out of 25 potential strategies for promoting this aid, women preferred 10 specific techniques, like providing social support and clear action plans. This is important because it can make the screening decision easier for women and their partners, leading to better-informed choices about their pregnancies. Who this helps: This benefits pregnant women and their partners.

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This study looked at a young man with a condition called multiple hereditary exostoses, which causes bone growths, and how he developed a pseudoaneurysm—a type of blood vessel bulge—after a small injury to his arm. Doctors found that the aneurysm was near one of his bone growths, and they successfully treated it by removing the bulge and repairing the artery. This is important because it highlights the need for doctors to carefully check for blood vessel injuries in patients with these bone growths, even after minor injuries. Who this helps: This helps patients with multiple hereditary exostoses and the doctors treating them.

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This research focused on creating a new material made from cobalt hydroxide and graphene that can be used in supercapacitors, which are devices that store energy. The study found that the best mixture of materials produced a composite with a high energy storage capacity of 734 farads and maintained its performance after 1,000 uses. This matters because it provides a fast and cost-effective way to produce a powerful energy storage solution, which could improve electronic devices and renewable energy systems. Who this helps: This benefits engineers and scientists developing energy storage technologies.

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This study looked at over 614,000 patients who had a surgery called carotid endarterectomy, which helps prevent strokes. It found that patients with uncontrolled diabetes had much worse outcomes: they experienced strokes at a rate of 3.27% compared to 0.93% for those with controlled diabetes and 0.94% for those without diabetes. Additionally, those with uncontrolled diabetes were more than twice as likely to die after the surgery compared to those with controlled diabetes. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with diabetes, especially those facing carotid endarterectomy surgery, as it highlights the importance of managing diabetes for better surgical outcomes.

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This paper examines how shared decision making (SDM) is currently handled in Iran's healthcare system and identifies challenges and future possibilities. It found that, while there is a desire among patients to be involved in their healthcare decisions, there are no specific policies or tools in place to support this in Iran. For SDM to improve, collaboration among patients, healthcare workers, and the government is essential. Who this helps: Patients in Iran who want a greater role in their healthcare decisions.

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Researchers studied how microgravity, or low gravity conditions, affects the formation of blood vessels from stem cells. They found that while the development of endothelial cells (the cells that line blood vessels) was slightly slower in microgravity, the branching of these blood vessels improved significantly. Specifically, the endothelial cells moved faster and had more active Cdc42, a protein important for their growth, due to the effects of microgravity. Who this helps: This helps patients needing better blood vessel formation in regenerative medicine.

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This study looked at how to safely perform a specific type of procedure called carotid stenting in patients who have had complicated neck surgeries and who also have a particular heart structure called a type III aortic arch. The researchers presented a case where a patient with these challenges had a blocked artery and was successfully treated using a combined method, which offered a safer alternative despite the risks. This matters because it shows that even patients with difficult medical histories can receive effective treatment for carotid artery issues, improving their chances of recovery. Who this helps: This helps patients with complicated neck surgeries and heart anatomy needing carotid artery treatment.

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This study looked at a complication called coronary subclavian steal syndrome, which happens when a blocked left subclavian artery affects blood flow during heart surgery. In a specific case, a patient who had both heart disease and a blocked subclavian artery underwent a procedure to fix the blockage before heart surgery. This is important because treating the blocked artery can improve blood flow and reduce the risk of complications during heart surgery. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing heart surgery, particularly those with blocked arteries.

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This study looked at two types of surgery for treating ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms (rAAA) to see which leads to better outcomes: endovascular repair (EVAR) and open surgical repair (OSAR). Researchers found that patients who had EVAR were nearly twice as likely to survive compared to those who had OSAR, with a mortality rate of 2 times higher for OSAR. Additionally, the study showed that EVAR led to fewer complications and shorter hospital stays, although EVAR was generally more expensive overall. Who this helps: This benefits patients with ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms, improving their chances of survival and recovery.

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This study looked at how well radiology staff at hospitals in Mazandaran, Iran, were operating within three key areas: technical skills, safety measures, and technology use when taking X-rays. The results showed that their average scores in these areas were around 66% for technical skills, 68% for safety, and only 48% for technology use. These findings indicate that while the staff's performance is generally acceptable, there is a clear need for ongoing training and oversight to improve their skills, which is crucial for reducing unnecessary radiation exposure for patients. Who this helps: This helps patients by ensuring they receive safer and higher-quality imaging services.

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This study looked at a protein called CREG1 and its role in helping stem cells turn into heart cells, which are vital for heart repair. Researchers found that when CREG1 was present, it helped these cells stick together and form proper heart tissue, while a lack of CREG1 disrupted this process. Specifically, they showed that CREG1 interacts with another protein, Sec8, to facilitate these essential heart cell connections. Who this helps: This helps patients who are recovering from heart damage and need effective treatments to regenerate heart tissue.

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This study looked at the Wallstent, a type of medical device used to treat blockages in the lower leg arteries. The researchers found that the Wallstent is effective because it can adjust to different sizes of blood vessels, making it a good option for treating infrapopliteal arterial disease. This matters because it offers a potentially better way to improve blood flow in patients with this condition. Who this helps: Patients with blockages in their lower leg arteries.

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This study measured the levels of radon gas and its potential radiation exposure in homes in Sari city, Iran. Researchers found that the average radon concentration was about 30 Bq/m³ and that people were exposed to a radiation dose equivalent to approximately 0.0151 microseverts per year, which was higher in winter due to less air movement indoors. These findings are important as they help understand the health risks associated with radon exposure in homes, which can lead to serious health issues, including lung cancer. Who this helps: This information benefits homeowners, public health officials, and healthcare providers.

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This study looked at a rare condition called stylocarotid artery syndrome, where an elongated bone in the skull compresses a key artery in the neck. The researchers followed a patient who experienced fainting, weakness in their right arm, and difficulty speaking due to temporary reduced blood flow caused by this compression. After surgery to relieve the pressure, the patient's symptoms improved, showing that surgical treatment can effectively address this unusual problem. Who this helps: This helps patients with stylocarotid artery syndrome and their doctors.

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This study examined acute radiation syndrome, a serious illness caused by high doses of radiation, in patients undergoing endovascular repair of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA). The researchers found that this condition is often overlooked by doctors during these complex procedures, even though it poses a significant risk. Recognizing and addressing this illness is crucial to ensure patient safety. Who this helps: Patients undergoing endovascular AAA repairs.

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This study looked at the amount of radiation that patients receive during chest and skull X-rays in hospitals in Mazandaran, Iran. The researchers found that the radiation doses for these procedures were higher than recommended limits: patients received an average dose of 0.51 mGray for chest X-rays and 7.59 mGray for lateral skull X-rays. This is important because excessive radiation can put patients at risk for health issues, so it's crucial for medical facilities to monitor and improve their X-ray equipment and operator skills. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing X-ray examinations by reducing their radiation exposure.

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This study focused on treating abdominal aortic aneurysms in patients with extremely twisted iliac arteries. Researchers found that using a special guiding sheath and a stiff wire made it possible to navigate these challenging blood vessels and successfully place a device to repair the aneurysm. This method is important because it expands treatment options for patients whose twisted arteries make traditional methods difficult. Who this helps: This helps patients with abdominal aortic aneurysms and complex iliac artery shapes.

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This study looked at a new way to treat serious injuries to the thoracic aorta, the major blood vessel in the chest, using a less invasive method called endovascular grafting. Out of 18 patients treated, 100% had successful repairs, and only 2 patients (11%) died in the hospital, mainly due to other injuries. This matters because it shows that this approach is safer and effective for managing these dangerous injuries without the high risks associated with traditional surgery. Who this helps: This helps trauma patients who suffer from thoracic aortic injuries.