Abstract: The H5N1 subtype of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) poses a major zoonotic threat due to its high fatality rate and capacity for cross species transmission. In early 2025, Argentina detected a novel triple reassortant A(H5N1) virus in Chaco Province, combining Eurasian, North American, and South American lineage segments. Genomic analyses of subsequent outbreaks in Buenos Aires and Entre Ríos confirmed persistence of this reassortant and additional HA substitutions (T204K, P251S) potentially linked to increased mammalian receptor affinity. Although PB2 sequences lacked canonical mammalian-adaptive markers (E627K, Q591K, D701N), all contained I292M, a mutation associated with human adaptation. Phylogenetic analyses revealed distinct genotypes and increasing divergence. These findings indicate ongoing viral evolution and adaptation within Argentina, emphasizing the urgent need for sustained genomic surveillance, timely data sharing, and integrated One Health strategies to mitigate zoonotic and socioeconomic risks associated with H5N1 spread in South America.

Abstract: Food adulteration has become one of Bangladesh’s most urgent public health and governance challenges, affecting everything from everyday groceries to street foods. This review draws on secondary research to examine why the problem persists, revealing a system driven by profit incentives, weak oversight, and poor consumer awareness. Adulteration thrives at wholesale and processing stages, where harmful chemicals, dyes, and fillers are routinely introduced into essential foods, leading to rising rates of poisoning, chronic illness, and long-term organ damage. The crisis also undermines economic stability, erodes public trust, and disproportionately harms low-income communities. Although Bangladesh has established regulatory structures like the BFSA, persistent gaps in funding, laboratory capacity, coordination, and enforcement limit their effectiveness. The study proposes a path forward anchored in stronger institutions, specialized courts, modern testing and traceability technologies, farm-to-fork certification, and greater public transparency. Meaningful reform requires collective responsibility across government, industry, and society.

Abstract: Background: University students are often exposed to environments that encourage unhealthy eating, but universities can promote better health and sustainability by making sustainable food options more accessible. Methods: Temporal changes in dietary patterns and environmental footprints of 1684 students at the University of Rijeka, Croatia, over a 16-year period (2009-2025) were retrospectively analyzed using data from three cross-sectional studies. Results: A significant transition toward less sustainable diets, increased consumption of animal-based foods, and proinflammatory eating habits was observed (both p< 0.001). Adherence to the Mediterranean and Planetary Health Diet declined over time (p< 0.001), followed by increased prevalence of overweight and obesity. Consumption of most food groups increased, leading to higher water and ecological footprints. Only the intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fish declined, which corresponded with reduced carbon footprints for these and a few other food groups, while the environmental impact of other foods significantly increased (all p < 0.001). Gender, diet quality, and a proinflammatory diet were significant predictors of dietary environmental footprints. Conclusion: The findings underscore the need for systemic changes and addressing barriers at the university level to support sustainable eating behaviors. The study offers valuable insights for policymakers, educators, and researchers who aim to help students become health-conscious and environmentally responsible consumers. Further research is needed to explore the broader factors influencing dietary choices and the long-term impact of future institutional interventions.

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Radiotherapy for head and neck cancer (HNC) compromises tissue vascularization and may delay post-extraction socket healing, with osteoradionecrosis (ORN) being a severe potential complication. Autologous platelet concentrates (APCs—including PRP, PRGF, PRF, A-PRF, and L-PRF) have been proposed to enhance mucosal and bone regeneration. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of APCs applied to extraction sockets in irradiated HNC patients. Materials and methods: A comprehensive search was conducted in MEDLINE (via PubMed), CENTRAL (Cochrane), and OpenGrey for studies published between January 2010 and June 2025. Eligible studies included randomized and non-randomized controlled trials comparing APCs with standard care or placebo in adults who had previously received radiotherapy. The primary outcome was the incidence of ORN; secondary outcomes included postoperative pain, wound closure (WC), healing index (HI), residual socket volume (RSV), edema, and other complications. Results: Four RCTs (95 patients; 315 extractions) were included. Postoperative pain levels were low and comparable between APC and control groups. ORN events were rare. One split-mouth trial found faster WC and lower RSV with PRGF, while others showed no clinically relevant medium-term differences. Study limitations included small samples, heterogeneity in APC types and outcomes, and incomplete follow-up. Conclusions: APCs may be safe in irradiated HNC patients, but current evidence remains inconclusive and suggests only modest or uncertain benefits over natural healing. Larger, standardized RCTs with extended follow-up are needed.

Abstract:

Introduction: Community preparedness for earthquakes is a crucial aspect of disaster risk reduction (DRR). Spiritual factors are considered a component that influences how communities perceive risks, respond to threats, and recover after a disaster. Research Method: This study aims to analyze the role of community spiritual aspects in earthquake preparedness through a review of international and national literature published in 2010–2024. Result: The results of the study show that spirituality plays a role in shaping risk perception, increasing psychological coping abilities, strengthening social capital, expanding the function of religious institutions, and supporting the post-disaster recovery process. Conclusion: Integrating a spiritual approach into community-based DRR programs can be an effective strategy in strengthening the social and psychological resilience of communities living in earthquake-prone areas.

Abstract: This comprehensive narrative review investigates the function of sophisticated artificial intelligence algorithms, with particular emphasis on transformer-based architectures like GPT, in the analysis of human behavior within multifaceted domains, concentrating specifically on financial markets and the management of epidemics. The analysis delineates the chronological evolution from fundamental behavioral paradigms, such as prospect theory and the Health Belief Model, to modern AI-enhanced analytical methodologies that encapsulate intricate behavioral tendencies. Key trends in contemporary scholarly investigations underscore the increasing employment of cross-domain insights, facilitating the transference of models and algorithms from the financial sector to public health and other fields. Thorough assessments clarify the benefits in forecasting precision and flexibility, while also bringing attention to limitations related to data representation, model clarity, and moral considerations. Recognized weaknesses underscore the requirement for sustained validation regarding cross-disciplinary transfer, the combination of assorted data origins, and the implementation of transparent and fair AI frameworks. Practical examples show how AI-enhanced behavioral analysis can strengthen decision-making, refine risk management, craft intervention strategies, and influence policy creation, illustrating the value of such technologies in our community. The analysis ultimately determines that, although considerable advancements have been achieved, tackling the outstanding obstacles will augment both the empirical strength and pragmatic applicability of AI-facilitated behavioral modeling. These insights underscore the potential of blending diverse AI approaches to merge theoretical knowledge with hands-on application, thus laying a robust groundwork for future investigative efforts and community impact.

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological disease characterized by demyelination, inflammation, and autoimmunity, leading to progressive physical and psychological impairments. Anxiety and depression are among the most prevalent neuropsychiatric comorbidities in MS, significantly impacting patients’ quality of life (QoL). This study aimed to assess the evolution of anxiety and depression in individuals with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) over a six-month follow-up period, identify associated factors, and explore predictive variables. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted with 35 RRMS patients diagnosed at the Lucus Augusti University Hospital between January 2023 and March 2025. Psychological symptoms were assessed at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months using Goldberg Anxiety and Depression Scale (GADS), the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI). Data were analyzed using non-parametric and parametric tests to account for the small sample size and distribution of variables. Results: Anxiety and depression were prevalent and persistent in the study population, with no significant changes in mean scores over time (p &gt; 0.05). However, specific symptoms, such as pessimism and loss of pleasure, showed worsening trends, while sadness and guilt remained stable. Sociodemographic factors, including lower income and employment status, were significantly associated with higher anxiety and depression scores (p &lt; 0.05). Additionally, clinical factors such as autoimmune comorbidities and a history of mononucleosis were linked to higher depressive symptoms. Baseline anxiety and depression scores emerged as strong predictors of future levels (p &lt; 0.01), emphasizing the importance of early assessments. Conclusions: Anxiety and depression are prevalent and persistent in RRMS patients, with specific symptoms fluctuating over time. Sociodemographic and clinical factors play a significant role in psychological outcomes, highlighting the need for integrated care models that address both physical and psychosocial aspects of MS. Early psychological assessments and targeted interventions are critical to improving QoL and mitigating the long-term burden of mental health challenges in RRMS.

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Background/Objectives: Urinary incontinence (UI) is common among women practicing sports, particularly those involving heavy lifting or high-impact movements that increase intra-abdominal pressure. UI can negatively affect social life, self-confidence, and motivation to remain active. This study aimed to examine the associations of sociodemographic, training-related, obstetric and surgical factors with UI in female weightlifters. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 84 French women regularly practicing weightlifting. Participants completed a sociodemographic and gynecological questionnaire, along with the Urinary Symptom Profile (USP). Data were analyzed using Mann-Whitney U, Student’s t-test, Chi-square, and Fisher’s exact tests (95% confidence level). Results: Among participants (aged 15–49 years), 51 (60.7%) reported involuntary urine leakage, and 31 (36.9%) scored 1–3 on the USP stress incontinence subscale. Most participants were non-smokers (73.8%), with a median of 3.5 years of weightlifting experience, 4 weekly training sessions, and 6–7 competitions per year. No significant associations were found between UI and sociodemographic factors, obstetric history, previous surgeries, or training characteristics. Maximal lifts in Clean & Jerk and Snatch exercises were also similar between participants with and without UI. Slight trends suggested higher UI prevalence among women with vaginal deliveries, episiotomies, or vaginal lacerations. Conclusions: UI is common among female weightlifters, but in this study, was not associated with sociodemographic factors or weightlifting practices. These findings indicate that UI prevalence cannot be explained by the variables studied and highlight the need for further research into other potential contributing factors.

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Family caregivers of individuals with dementia frequently experience substantial psychological distress, yet their emotional responses are heterogeneous. Depression, anxiety and psychological well-being may co-occur in distinct patterns, and socio-economic resources such as education and income are often hypothesized to buffer caregiver distress. This study aimed to identify latent psychological profiles among dementia caregivers and to examine whether education and income moderate the association between affective symptoms and well-being. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 73 family caregivers of dementia patients attending the Neurology–Psychiatry Department of C.F.2 Clinical Hospital, Bucharest (November 2023–April 2024). Participants completed the PHQ-9 (depression), the COVI Anxiety Scale and Ryff’s Psychological Well-Being Scales. Care recipients’ cognitive status was extracted from medical records using the MMSE. Gaussian Mixture Modeling was used for latent profile analysis (LPA). Between-profile differences were examined using one-way ANOVAs and Tukey post-hoc tests. Pearson correlations assessed relationships between affective symptoms and well-being, and moderation analyses tested education and income as potential buffers. Results: LPA supported a three-profile solution: (1) low depressive symptoms with moderate anxiety (33%), (2) severe combined depression and anxiety (18%) and (3) moderately severe depression with severe anxiety (49%). Group differences were large for both depression (F(2,70) = 36.16, p < .001, η² = .68) and anxiety (F(2,70) = 73.33, p < .001, η² = .81). Caregivers in Profile 3 reported significantly higher overall well-being than those in Profile 1. Depression correlated weakly but significantly with lower autonomy (r = .24, p = .044) and self-acceptance (r = .25, p = .033), whereas anxiety showed no meaningful associations with well-being. Education and income did not moderate the relationships between affective symptoms and well-being. Conclusions: Dementia caregivers exhibit three distinct psychological profiles, reflecting heterogeneous affective responses rather than uniform distress patterns. Socio-economic resources did not significantly buffer the impact of depressive or anxiety symptoms on well-being, although higher education showed a positive association with overall well-being. These findings underscore the need for individualized screening and tailored psychological interventions to support caregiver mental health.

Abstract:

Background: Ostomy care consultations are essential for promoting patient autonomy and quality-of-life. The integration of innovative technologies may enhance health education and support effective self-care among ostomized patients. Objective: To analyze the impact of health education supported by smart-glasses on the quality of life of ostomized patients. Methods: This is a Pre—post study. A single 60-minute intervention was conducted with 14 ostomized patients (mean age: 57.6±12.6 years; 50% male). The session comprised three phases: (1) assessment of patient knowledge on ostomy management; (2) personalized feedback addressing individual needs; and (3) a hands-on workshop using Vuzix smart-glasses to provide a first-person perspective of ostomy care techniques. Four instructional videos were recorded and made available via a digital platform. Results: At baseline, patients reported moderate limitations in physical function and physical role. General health and vitality indicated fair-to-good perception, while mental health was adequate in 57.1% of participants. Following the intervention, SF-36 score improved significantly, with 53.8% reporting a very good quality of life. Physical function increased with 84.6% rating it as good or excellent. Emotional role improved markedly, and mental health reached 76.9% reporting optimal scores. A strong correlation was observed between baseline and post-intervention SF-36 scores. Conclusion: The integration of smart glasses into health education within nursing-led ostomy consultations significantly improved the quality of life of ostomized patients following digestive surgery.

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Objective: To develop and validate an ultra brief scale to measure social media fatigue, i.e., the Social Media Fatigue Scale-3 items (SMFS-3). Method: Construct validity of the SMFS-3 was assessed through corrected item–total correlations and confirmatory factor analysis. Concurrent validity was examined using the Bergen Social Media Addiction Scale (BSMAS), and the Patient Health Questionnaire-4 (PHQ-4). Reliability was evaluated through multiple indices, including Cronbach’s alpha, Cohen’s kappa, and the intraclass correlation coefficient. Receiver Operating Characteristic analysis was employed to determine the optimal cut-off point for the SMFS-3, using the BSMAS as external criterion. Results: Corrected item–total correlations and confirmatory factor analysis confirmed that the final version of the SMFS-3 includes three items in one factor. Concurrent validity of the SMFS-3 was excellent since we found statistically significant correlations between the SMFS-3 and the BSMAS, and the PHQ-4. Cronbach’s alpha for the SMFS-3 was 0.762. Cohen’s kappa for the three items ranged from 0.852 to 0.919 (p < 0.001 in all cases). Additionally, intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.986 (p < 0.001). Thus, the reliability of the SMFS-3 was excellent. The best cut-off point for the SMFS-3 was 10, indicating that social media users with SMFS-3 score ≥10 were considered as users with high levels of social media fatigue, and those with SMFS-3 score <10 as users with normal levels of fatigue. Conclusions: The SMFS-3 is a one-factor 3-item scale with great reliability and validity. The SMFS-3 is a short and easy-to-use tool that measures levels of social media fatigue in a couple of minutes. Valid measurement of social media fatigue with brief and valid tools is essential to further understand predictors and consequences of this fatigue.

Abstract:

Objectives: To analyze the anthropometric and laboratory levels associated in adults with diabetes on insulin therapy, monitored by Brazilian Primary Health Care. Methods: Cross-sectional study conducted from August 2024 to January 2025 in 17 Basic Health Units. The final sample included 60 adults (≥18 years) with confirmed type 1 or type 2 diabetes, responsible for insulin preparation and self-administration for at least 6 months. Sociodemographic, clinical, anthropometric, and laboratory data (HbA1c, fasting blood glucose, and blood pressure) were collected by trained undergraduate researchers. Normality was tested using the Shapiro-Wilk test, and variables were described using means, SD, 95% CI, and absolute/relative frequencies. One-sample t-tests compared observed means to international clinical targets (p < 0.05). Results: Most of participants had type 2 diabetes (71.7%), diagnosed >10 years ago (54.9%), and 50% did not perform daily self-monitoring of blood glucose. Insulin therapy was long-established with 90% with >1 year of continuous use. Clinical means were significantly higher than recommended targets for HbA1c (mean = 9.08%; 86.7% altered; p < 0.001) and fasting blood glucose (mean = 198.7 mg/dL; 81.7% altered; p < 0.001). Overweight/excess adiposity were frequent (BMI mean = 26.5 ± 4.85; 58.3% altered), and 63.3% had increased waist circumference. Calf and neck circumferences suggested emerging body-composition risk in part of the sample. Conclusions: Adults on established insulin therapy showed persistent glycemic imbalance and a high frequency of clinically anthropometric risk markers. The findings reinforce the need for individualized metabolic monitoring structured PHC interventions to support safe insulin self-administration.

Abstract: Background: Multimorbidity (the co-occurrence of two or more chronic conditions) is increasingly common among older adults and contributes to diminished well-being and greater healthcare use. While national data highlight regional variation, few studies have examined how multimorbidity is patterned within provinces like Saskatchewan or how it relates to access and acute care use. Objective: To describe sociodemographic and geographic patterns of multimorbidity among older adults in Saskatchewan and examine its association with healthcare access, unmet needs, and recent emergency department (ED) visits and hospitalizations. Methods: We conducted a secondary analysis of a population-based telephone survey of 1,093 adults aged 65+ across Saskatchewan. Respondents were categorized by chronic disease burden (none, one, or multimorbidity). Descriptive statistics and postal code–level mapping explored health status, access, and utilization. Results: Multimorbidity (10.6%) was more prevalent among older adults aged 75+, Indigenous respondents, and those with lower education. It was associated with poorer self-rated health, greater unmet needs, and higher ED visits (20.7%) and hospitalizations (12.1%) compared to those without chronic conditions. Northern regions had proportionally higher multimorbidity, despite smaller populations. Conclusions: Findings highlight social and spatial disparities in chronic disease burden and underscore the need for equity-focused strategies in Saskatchewan’s rural and northern communities.

Abstract: Resilience in children represents far more than simply recovering from difficult experiences. It encompasses the ability to face adversity, adapt to changing circumstances, and develop constructively despite encountering significant challenges. For a child, resilience means possessing the emotional tools, cognitive flexibility, and social connections necessary to navigate life's inevitable difficulties.The concept of resilience has evolved significantly since its formal introduction to psychological literature. Early definitions focused narrowly on the absence of negative outcomes, but contemporary understanding recognizes resilience as a dynamic process. It is not a fixed trait but rather a collection of capacities that can be developed, strengthened, and refined throughout childhood and beyond.When we speak of resilient children, we refer to those who demonstrate the capacity to maintain emotional stability when facing stress, adapt their thinking and behavior when circumstances change, seek help when needed, and ultimately emerge from difficult periods with their sense of self intact and often strengthened by the experience. These children are not immune to suffering or disappointment; rather, they possess the capacity to navigate both effectively.

Abstract: BackgroundMoxibustion, a traditional Chinese medicine technique involving the application of heat to acupoints, has been increasingly integrated into rehabilitation protocols for musculoskeletal and neurological conditions. This systematic review aims to compare the effectiveness of moxibustion (particularly heat-sensitive variants) against conventional physical therapy (PT) in improving pain management, functional recovery, and quality of life in patients undergoing rehabilitation.MethodsFollowing PRISMA guidelines, we systematically searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central, Web of Science, CINAHL, and CNKI from inception to December 2025. Eligibility criteria included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or comparative studies evaluating moxibustion (alone or combined with PT) versus conventional PT. Data were extracted on pain (VAS), function (FMA, BI), quality of life, and adverse events. Risk of bias was assessed using RoB 2.0. A narrative synthesis was performed due to heterogeneity.ResultsFrom 30 records, 15 studies met inclusion criteria (n=1,200 participants; conditions: post-stroke hemiplegia, rheumatoid arthritis [RA], total knee arthroplasty [TKA], myofascial pain syndrome [MPS], ankylosing spondylitis). Moxibustion + PT outperformed PT alone in 12/15 studies for pain reduction (mean VAS decrease: 1.5–3.0 points; p<0.05) and functional mobility (FMA improvements: 10–20%; p<0.01). Adjunctive moxibustion showed superior early recovery in TKA (e.g., faster straight-leg raise by 12–24 hours). Heterogeneity was high (I²>75%); low-moderate risk of bias in most trials. Adverse events were rare (burns <2%).ConclusionsMoxibustion enhances the effectiveness of conventional PT for pain relief and functional recovery in rehabilitation settings, particularly as an adjunct. Limitations include study heterogeneity and small sample sizes. High-quality RCTs are needed for meta-analysis.

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Geographic Information Systems (GIS) offer essential capabilities for identifying spatial concentrations of vulnerability and strengthening context-aware prevention efforts across healthcare and community systems. Interpersonal Violence (IPV) remains a critical public health challenge shaped by structural, ecological, and situational factors, but it represents only one of several preventable harms that benefit 24 from this spatially informed analysis. This manuscript presents a geospatial public health architecture designed to generate anticipatory, place-based risk forecasting applicable across diverse community and institutional environments. Methods: The framework integrates de-identified surveillance data, ecological indicators, environmental exposures, and temporal dynamics into a unified spatial epidemiology model. Multilevel data layers are geocoded, spatially matched, and analyzed using clustering, spatial dependence metrics, and contextual modeling to identify micro-environments of elevated vulnerability. Results: The model identifies spatial clustering, mobility-linked risk patterns, and emerging escalation zones using neighborhood disadvantage, built-environment factors, and situational markers. Spatial outputs support clinical applications such as geocoded trauma screening, risk-stratified decision support, and context-aware discharge planning. Community applications include targeted environmental interventions, cross-sector resource coordination, and equity-focused prevention planning. Conclusions: By merging behavioral theory, spatial epidemiology, and prevention science, this methodological model enhances anticipatory detection, strengthens trauma-informed practice, and supports coordinated public health response. It establishes a con- 41 ceptual foundation for future empirical research using high-resolution restricted datasets and advances spatially informed prevention across diverse settings, consequently promoting the continued development of dynamic, integrated equity-focused prevention systems.

Abstract: This study analyzed environmental noise in neonatal hospital units, including low- and high-risk nurseries and neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). Continuous 24-hour measurements over ten days showed that average sound levels significantly exceeded international recommendations, with peaks up to 92.7 dB (p < 0.05). Hourly LAeq values often reached or surpassed 65 dB, with more than 20% of daily recordings above this limit and, in some cases, over 50%. Heatmaps revealed recurrent patterns: high-risk nurseries showed peaks during late morning and afternoon, low-risk nurseries at night, and NICUs maintained elevated levels throughout the day. Main noise sources were alarms, medical equipment, and staff or visitor activity. The Premature Infant Pain Profile (PIPP) suggested associations between noise and neonatal discomfort. Overall, up to 60% of noise could be reduced through architectural, technological, and organizational measures, underscoring the need for hospital policies that protect neonatal neurosensory health. These findings provide evidence-based guidance for designing quieter neonatal care environments.

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Falls are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in older adults, even among those who are physically active. This study examined the associations of skeletal muscle mass, muscle strength, and muscle power with fall risk in community-dwelling, physically active older adults. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis was conducted with 280 participants (71.9 ± 5.3 years; 75% women) enrolled in the Stay Up–Falls Prevention Project. Assessments included skeletal muscle mass (anthropometric prediction equation), handgrip strength, lower-limb strength and power (Five Times Sit-to-Stand test, 5xSTS), and fall history over the past 12 months. Muscle power was calculated from 5xSTS performance using the equation proposed by Alcazar and colleagues. Logistic regression models and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses were performed. Results: Overall, 26.4% of participants reported at least one fall in the previous year, with a higher prevalence among women (28.9%) than men (18.8%). Fallers showed significantly lower handgrip strength (23.1 vs. 25.4 kg, p = 0.022) and poorer lower-limb strength (9.2 vs. 8.7 s, p = 0.007) compared with non-fallers. However, no significant differences were found for skeletal muscle mass or sit-to-stand–derived power. In multivariable models adjusted for age, sex, body mass index, comorbidities, and medications, lower-limb strength remained the only independent predictor of falls (OR = 1.78, 95% CI: 1.11–2.85, p = 0.016). ROC analysis confirmed fair discriminative capacity for 5xSTS performance (AUC = 0.616, p = 0.003), with an optimal cut-off of 8.62 s (sensitivity = 78.4%, specificity = 33.0%). Handgrip strength, muscle mass, and power did not show independent predictive value. Conclusions: These findings indicate that the 5xSTS test provides a simple, cost-effective, and clinically relevant measure for fall-risk screening in active older adults. Clinicians should consider the 5xSTS as a sensitive first-line screening tool, ideally combined with complementary assessments (e.g., balance, gait, cognition) to improve risk stratification and guide preventive interventions in ageing populations.

Abstract: Background: This retrospective cohort study created an artificial intelligence (AI) model to predict dementia development and compared the prediction accuracy of the training data. The study participants were 7,384 older adults (age ≥ 75 years) who underwent regional dental checkups in Gifu Prefecture, Japan, in 2018 and 2020. Methods: The National Da-tabase of Health Insurance of Japan (NDB) was integrated with dental checkup data, and the participants were randomly divided into two datasets: training (n = 5,169) and valida-tion (n = 2,215). A data analytics tool was utilized to create the AI model with training da-ta in 2018 and data on the presence or absence of dementia development in 2020. Results: The AI model trained solely on NDB data showed sensitivity of 0.73 and specificity of 0.91 in predicting the presence or absence of dementia development after 2 years. By contrast, the AI model trained on NDB and dental checkup data showed sensitivity of 0.75 and specificity of 0.95, indicating improvement in both metrics. Conclusions: Combining dif-ferent sets of data, such as NDB and dental checkup data, for training may be useful for improving the accuracy of AI models to predict dementia development.

Abstract:

Background: The rapid expansion of real-world data in medicine is driving the adoption of advanced methods like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Propensity Score Matching (PSM). AI is widely applied across diagnostics, prediction, and treatment planning, while PSM is a crucial statistical technique used in quasi-experimental studies to mitigate confounding bias and approximate the reliability of randomized controlled trials. There is a growing research interest in combining these two methods to leverage their symbiotic strengths, but this association has not been holistically explored. Methodology: This study employed Synthetic Thematic Analysis (STA), derived from synthetic knowledge synthesis, to systematically review the existing literature on AI and PSM in medicine. Publications were harvested from the Scopus database using a comprehensive search string limited to the Medical subject area. The resulting corpus (N=433 documents) was analyzed using bibliometric tools (Bibliometrix and VOSViewer) to map the research landscape, identify thematic clusters based on author keywords, analyze collaboration patterns, and synthesize findings from highly prolific publications. Results: The field is young and rapidly accelerating, showing an exponential increase from 2020 to 2024. China and the USA dominate research production and citation impact. The symbiotic relationship is published in high-impact medical journals and health informatics journals. STA identified four main thematic clusters: Prediction, Cancer Management, Diagnosing, and Deep Learning. AI and PSM are combined in two primary ways: AI used in PSM and PSM used in AI. Conclusion: The symbiotic association between AI and PSM is a global and rapidly developing trend in medical research, driven by major international contributors. This convergence is enhancing methodological rigor in observational studies, primarily by improving prediction models and refining causal inference in complex areas like cardiovascular disease, cancer, and diagnostics.