Medicine
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The year 2022 witnessed an alarming surge in state-based armed conflicts globally, reaching a staggering 56, with major hostilities in Ukraine, Myanmar, and Nigeria resulting in over 10,000 estimated conflict-related deaths. This trend continued with the onset of a significant conflict between Israel and Hamas in October 2023. The escalating frequency of armed conflicts, reaching the highest number since 1946, poses a critical threat to global health. ⋯ The surge in armed conflicts globally is characterized as a "pandemic," justifying urgent attention. The paper identifies and discusses strategies to safeguard public health in conflict zones, emphasizing humanitarian response, protecting healthcare workers and infrastructure, building preparedness and resilience, and promoting mental health support. In navigating this "pandemic" of armed conflicts, comprehensive strategies are imperative to address the intricate challenges and secure a healthier global future.
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Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) pose a significant global health challenge with far-reaching social, economic, and public health implications. These infections have haunted humanity from ancient times to today, transcending geographical boundaries and cultural contexts. This article explores the multifaceted landscape of STDs, delving into their epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, and global response strategies. ⋯ However, challenges persist, including disparities in healthcare access, sociocultural factors influencing transmission, and evolving pathogens with increasing resistance to treatment. Through case studies and real-world examples, we illuminate the human stories behind the statistics, highlighting the lived experiences of individuals grappling with STDs and the complex interplay of factors shaping their journeys. Ultimately, this review calls for continued research, innovative strategies, and sustained global commitment to mitigating the burden of STDs and promoting sexual health and well-being for all.
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Comparative Study
A comparative study of two phakic posterior chamber implantable lenses.
This study aimed to compare the postimplantation clinical outcomes of 2 types of posterior chamber phakic intraocular lenses (IOLs): Visian™ implantable collamer lenses (ICL; EVO+ V5; Staar Surgical, Monrovia, CA) and an implantable phakic contact lens (IPCL) (IPCL V2.0, Care Group Sight Solution, India) to correct high myopia and myopic astigmatism. This retrospective study included patients who had undergone phakic IOL implantation performed by a single surgeon between March 2021 and March 2022. Preoperative assessments included slit-lamp examination, fundus examination, spherical equivalent, uncorrected distant visual acuity (UDVA), corrected distant visual acuity (CDVA), specular microscope parameters, and optical quality analysis system parameters. ⋯ The mean CDVA was 0.001 ± 0.008 logMAR and 0.001 ± 0.007 logMAR in the ICL and IPCL groups, respectively, showing no statistically significant differences. The postoperative parameters did not differ significantly between the 2 groups. The visual acuity and refractive results of both groups were excellent, and both groups exhibited similar efficacy and safety profiles.
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Meta Analysis Comparative Study
Comparison of fascia iliaca block with quadratus lumborum block for hip arthroplasty: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
The efficacy of fascia iliaca block (FIB) versus quadratus lumborum block (QLB) remains controversial for pain management of hip arthroplasty. We conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to explore the influence of FIB versus QLB on the postoperative pain intensity of hip arthroplasty. ⋯ FIB may be better than QLB for pain control after hip arthroplasty, as evidenced by the lower pain scores at 2 and 24 hours.
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The effectiveness of different medical interventions in managing labor pain has yielded mixed results. Therefore, this systematic review and network meta-analysis aimed to provide a comprehensive summary of the available evidence on the impact of different strategies for reducing labor pain. ⋯ According to the results of the network meta-analysis, among the different strategies examined, the Bonapace Method stands out as the most effective nonpharmacological intervention for reducing labor pain. The results of this meta-analysis can aid both patients and healthcare professionals in choosing the most effective techniques to reduce labor pain.