Loss Prevention Research Articles

Relationship between hearing loss and Glasgow prognostic score in patients with cancer

ObjectiveOxidative stress damages cochlear hair cells in vitro. However, the effect of systemic inflammation on hearing loss remains unclear. Growing evidence suggests that malnutrition influences the development of hearing loss. In this study, we aimed to investigate the influence of the Glasgow prognostic score (GPS), which is calculated based on systemic inflammatory responses and malnutrition, on auditory threshold increases in patients with cancer. MethodsThis single-center retrospective cohort study included patients with cancer who underwent standard pure-tone audiometry (PTA) between November 2014 and May 2023. Patients with complete data in their electronic medical records within 90 days before undergoing standard PTA were included. Multivariate analysis was performed using auditory threshold as the response variable. Covariates, including GPS, were obtained from blood data and physical data before standard PTA. The GPS was classified into three levels based on serum albumin and C-reactive protein levels. ResultsStandard PTA was performed 14,868 times in 5,462 patients. Of these, 742 had cancer and 384 met the inclusion criteria. Multivariate analysis revealed that older age, creatinine clearance <60 mL/min, and high GPS significantly increased the auditory threshold at frequencies of 500–8,000 Hz. A history of platinum drug use and male sex increased the auditory threshold at frequencies >4,000 and >2,000 Hz, respectively. ConclusionThe GPS was independently associated with elevated standard PTA thresholds in patients with cancer. These results suggest an association between malnutrition/chronic inflammation and hearing loss and provide new information for planning clinical research on hearing loss prevention.

Effect of the glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists on diabetic peripheral neuropathy: A meta-analysis.

Previous researches found that glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RA) offer benefits beyond their anti-diabetic properties, including weight loss and cardiovascular disease prevention. However, the effects of GLP-1RA on diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) remain unclear. This meta-analysis aims to assess the potential benefits of GLP-1RA treatment in DPN patients by evaluating peripheral neural function. Following the Cochrane Collaboration and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, we conducted a meta-analysis of the clinical trials investigating the impact of GLP-1RA treatment on peripheral neural function in patients with DPN. Outcomes were measured using electrophysiological tests, including nerve conduction velocity (NCV) and action potential amplitude. Our meta-analysis included six studies with 271 participants. Following GLP-1RA treatment, NCV significantly improved compared to the control group (MD 1.74; 95% CI 1.16 to 2.33; p < 0.001) and before treatment (MD 2.16; 95% CI 1.04 to 3.27; p < 0.001). Despite the improvement in NCV, blood glucose levels did not change significantly (MD -0.20 95% CI -0.87 to 0.46, p = 0.55) indicating that GLP-1RA enhances NCV through mechanisms other than glucose lowering. Nonetheless, as a result of the limited population studied, further research is needed to strengthen the reliability of these findings.

Micronutrients and Androgenetic Alopecia: A Systematic Review.

Hair loss is a common problem that can negatively impact individuals' psychological well-being. Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is one of the most prevalent types of nonscarring hair loss. This review summarizes the existing evidence on the relationship between AGA and various micronutrients, including vitamin B, vitamin D, vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, selenium, zinc, manganese, and copper. A literature search was conducted to identify relevant articles published between 1993 and 2023. The search identified 49 relevant articles. The findings suggest that deficiencies or imbalances in these micronutrients may contribute to the pathogenesis of AGA and represent modifiable risk factors for hair loss prevention and treatment. Vitamin B, vitamin D, iron, and zinc appear to play critical roles in hair growth and maintenance. Deficiencies in these micronutrients have been associated with increased risk of AGA, while supplementation with these nutrients has shown potential benefits in improving hair growth and preventing hair loss. However, the current evidence is not entirely consistent, with some studies reporting no significant associations. Deficiencies or imbalances in specific vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin B, vitamin D, Fe, Se, and Zn are involved in the pathogenesis of AGA and may represent modifiable risk factors for the treatment and prevention of this condition.

Implementing Loss Prevention by Identifying Trends and Insights to Help Policyholders Mitigate Risks and Reduce Claims

Loss prevention is a critical focus for both insurers and policyholders, as rising claim volumes lead to increased premiums and financial losses. This paper explores the implementation of loss prevention strategies through the identification of trends and insights derived from historical data, predictive analytics, and emerging technologies. By leveraging these insights, insurers can recommend proactive risk mitigation measures to policyholders, reducing the occurrence of claims and overall risks. The study begins by analyzing historical data trends across various sectors such as auto, property, and health insurance, identifying key factors that drive claims. Predictive analytics is then applied to forecast future risks, allowing insurers to develop personalized strategies for mitigating those risks. Emerging technologies like Internet of Things (IoT) devices and artificial intelligence (AI) are highlighted for their role in providing real-time data and early warning systems, which help to prevent incidents before they escalate into claims. This paper also outlines practical loss prevention strategies for policyholders, such as installing smart home devices to monitor potential hazards, encouraging safe driving habits through telematics, and promoting health and wellness programs to lower medical claims. These risk mitigation strategies are shown to provide significant return on investment (ROI) for policyholders by reducing claims frequency and severity. Through case studies and data analysis, the paper demonstrates that proactive loss prevention not only benefits policyholders by lowering their risk exposure but also helps insurers reduce claims costs and enhance profitability. In conclusion, this research highlights the importance of trend identification, predictive analytics, and emerging technologies in the future of loss prevention, offering a path forward for insurers and policyholders to work collaboratively in mitigating risks.

The Development of a Prediction Model Related to Food Loss and Waste in Consumer Segments of Agrifood Chain Using Machine Learning Methods

Food loss and waste (FLW) is a primary focus topic related to all human activity. This phenomenon has a great deal of importance due to its effect on the economic and social aspects of human systems. The most integrated approach to food waste analysis is based on the study of FLW alongside the agrifood chain, which has also been performed in previous studies by the authors. This paper presents a modality of determination of food loss and waste effects with an emphasis on consumer segments in agrifood chains in the form of a predictive model based on statistical data collected based on specific methods in Romania. The determination is made comparatively, using two predictive machine learning-based methods and separate instruments (software), in order to establish the best model that fits the collected data structure. In this matter, a Decision Tree Approach (DTA) and a Neural Network Approach (NNA) will be developed, and common methodologies of the approaches will be applied. The results will determine predictive outcomes for a specific food waste (FW) agent (e.g., consumer) based on pattern recognition of the collected data. The results showed relatively high-accuracy predictions, especially for the NN approach, with lower performances using the DTA. The effects of the application of this predictive model will be expected to improve the food loss prevention measures within economic contexts when applied to real-life scenarios.

Preventing OsteoPorosis in Spinal Cord Injury (POPSCI) Study-Early Zoledronic Acid Infusion in Patients with Acute Spinal Cord Injury.

Accelerated sub-lesional bone loss is common in the first 2-3years after traumatic spinal cord injury (TSCI), particularly in the distal femur and proximal tibia. Few studies have explored efficacy of antiresorptives for acute bone loss prevention post-TSCI, with limited data for knee bone mineral density (BMD) or beyond two years follow-up. An open-label non-randomized study was performed at Royal North Shore Hospital and Royal Rehab Centre, Sydney between 2018 and 2023. An 'acute interventional cohort' (n = 11) with TSCI (duration ≤ 12-weeks) received a single infusion of 4mg zoledronic acid (ZOL) at baseline. A 'chronic non-interventional cohort' (n = 9) with TSCI (duration 1-5-years) did not receive ZOL. All participants underwent baseline and 6-monthly blood tests (including CTx and P1NP) and 12-monthly DXA BMD scans (including distal femur and proximal tibia). Participants were predominantly Caucasian and male (mean age 38.4years). At baseline, the 'acute' cohort had higher serum CTx, P1NP and sclerostin concentrations, while the 'chronic' cohort had lower left hip and knee BMD. Majority with acute TSCI experienced an acute phase reaction after ZOL (9/11; 82%). In the acute cohort, left hip BMD fell by mean ~ 15% by 48months. Left distal femoral and proximal tibial BMD declined by mean ~ 6-13% at 12months and ~ 20-23% at 48months, with a tendency towards greater BMD loss in motor-complete TSCI. A single early ZOL infusion in acute TSCI could not attenuate rapidly declining hip and knee BMD. Prospective controlled studies are required to establish the optimal strategy for preventing early bone loss after acute TSCI.

From Farm to Fork: Addressing Food Waste in Households

With the rising environmental awareness, the issue of food waste is drawing considerable attention from civil society, scholars, industry practitioners and policymakers alike. Addressing food waste is crucial, as it incurs a variety of social, health, economic and environmental costs, including greenhouse gas emissions, soil degradation and the depletion of natural resources. The objective of this study is to analyze processes in food waste management to gain insight into factors influencing consumer behaviour, attitudes, and practices regarding consumption and food waste and loss prevention in the supply chain. This requires the analysis of decision making methods and waste reduction strategies and approaches, particularly for households. The goal is to emphasize the importance of raising consumer awareness and sense of individual responsibility, especially given the recent surge in collective community intentions to live more sustainably. However, translating these intentions into tangible actions is uncertain and filled with socio-economic complexities. Reports indicate that, households are responsible for approximately half of all food waste generated. Therefore, it's important to review the literature on barriers and triggers related to behaviour patterns and variations in food related lifestyle dimensions, to determine the factors that might influence food handling and food waste knowledge. Targeting households presents a promising starting point for future interventions, highlighting actions that may influence the current food consumption model to reduce the amount of food wasted. The methodological approach was structured into three steps. First, a literature review was conducted to gather insights and identify factors and interconnections between consumer behaviour and food waste. Second, related drivers and triggers were analysed. Lastly, the findings were summarized to highlight gaps and opportunities for improving attitudes towards food waste prevention.

Longitudinal associations between microRNAs and weight in the diabetes prevention program.

Circulating microRNAs show cross-sectional associations with overweight and obesity. Few studies provided data to differentiate between a snapshot perspective on these associations versus how microRNAs characterize prodromal risk from disease pathology and complications. This study assessed longitudinal relationships between circulating microRNAs and weight at multiple time-points in the Diabetes Prevention Program trial. A subset of participants (n=150) from the Diabetes Prevention Program were included. MicroRNAs were measured from banked plasma using a Fireplex Assay. We used generalized linear mixed models to evaluate relationships between microRNAs and changes in weight at baseline, year-1, and year-2. Logistic regression was used to evaluate whether microRNAs at baseline were associated with weight change after 2 years. In fully adjusted models that included relevant covariates, seven miRs (i.e., miR-126, miR-15a, miR-192, miR-23a, and miR-27a) were statistically associated with weight over 2 years. MiR-197 and miR-320a remained significant after adjustment for multiple comparisons. Baseline levels of let-7f, miR-17, and miR-320c were significantly associated with 3% weight loss after 2 years in fully adjusted models. This study provided evidence for longitudinal relationships between circulating microRNAs and weight. Because microRNAs characterize the combined effects of genetic determinants and responses to behavioral determinants, they may provide insights about the etiology of overweight and obesity in the context or risk for common, complex diseases. Additional studies are needed to validate the potential genes and biological pathways that might be targeted by these microRNA biomarkers and have mechanistic implications for weight loss and disease prevention.

THE IMPACT OF HAIR LOSS IN CAMBODIA: CAUSES, PREVENTION METHODS, AND TREATMENT SOLUTIONS

Hair loss is a significant global problem, affecting individuals' quality of life physically and psychologically. In Cambodia, this issue remains understudied despite genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors contributing to its prevalence. This research investigates hair loss prevention and treatment in Cambodia aiming to develop a comprehensive strategy tailored to the local population. The study evaluates pharmaceutical interventions, such as Minoxidil and Finasteride, surgical options, including Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) and Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE), along with natural remedies and lifestyle modifications. Methodology involves an extensive literature review, surveys, and clinical trials with a diverse sample from across Cambodia. Advanced data analysis assesses the effectiveness and side effects of different treatments, while qualitative methods, including interviews and focus groups, explore the psychological impact of hair loss and support systems available. Results indicate that a combined approach—integrating medical treatments, natural remedies, dietary guidance, and stress management—achieves the best outcomes in hair regrowth and patient satisfaction. The research highlights the need for accessible public health initiatives, such as educational campaigns and financial aid, to ensure broad community benefits. In conclusion, a multifaceted strategy combining medical interventions, lifestyle changes, and robust public health policies is advocated. This holistic approach effectively addresses both physical and psychological aspects of hair loss, providing a tailored solution for the Cambodian population.

Visual field loss and falls requiring hospitalisation: results from the eFOVID study.

Visual fields are important for postural stability and ability to manoeuvre around objects. Examine the association between visual field loss and falls requiring hospitalisation in adults aged 50 +. Older adults aged 50+ with and without visual field loss were identified using a fields database obtained from a cross-section of ophthalmologists' practices in Western Australia (WA). Data were linked to the Hospital Morbidity Data Collection and WA Hospital Mortality System to identify participants who experienced falls-related hospitalisations between 1990 and 2019. A generalised linear negative binomial regression model examined the association between falls requiring hospitalisation for those with and without field loss, based on the better eye mean deviation (mild: -2 to -6dB, moderate: -6.01dB to -12dB, severe < -12.01dB) in the most contemporaneous visual field test (3years prior or if not available, 2years after the fall), after adjusting for potential confounders. A total of 31 021 unique individuals of whom 6054 (19.5%) experienced 11 818 falls requiring hospitalisation during a median observation time of 14.1years. Only mean deviation index of <-12.01dB (severe) was significantly associated with an increased rate of falls requiring hospitalisations by 14% (adjusted IRR 1.14, 95% CI 1.0-1.25) compared with no field loss, after adjusting for potential confounders. Other factors included age, with those aged 80+ having an increased rate (IRR 29.16, 95% CI 21.39-39.84), other comorbid conditions (IRR 1.49, 95% CI 1.38-1.60) and diabetes (IRR 1.25, 95% CI 1.14-1.37). Previous cataract surgery was associated with a decreased rate of falls that required hospitalisations by 13% (IRR 0.87, 95% CI 0.81-0.95) compared with those who did not have cataract surgery. The findings highlight the importance of continuous clinical monitoring of visual field loss and injury prevention strategies for older adults with visual field loss.

Regional Disaster Vulnerability Analysis and Insurance Selection Analysis Based on AHP-EWM-TOPSIS Group Method

Floods, hurricanes, cyclones, and droughts are the most common types of weather, and they have a profound impact on insurance. To specifically analyse the impact, the paper first introduces the concept of Regional Resilience Index (RRI), and then use the AHP-EWM-TOPSIS Method to derive the RRI scores and categorize all regions into five categories based on the size of RRI, which are rock-solid, stable, moderate, weak and vulnerable. Next, the Insurance Break-even Index Evaluation Model is built through the analysis. Insurers should increase their coverage in rock-solid, stable and moderate areas in line with the equilibrium curve, where they should invest in extensive publicity. In weak and vulnerable areas, insurance companies should appropriately reduce policy investment, build a multi-level insurance portfolio such as reinsurance mechanism, and invest a certain amount of funds in regional disaster prevention and loss prevention to maximize the win-win situation between the insurance company and the insured.

Handling Encryption and Data Loss prevention in the Cloud-Based Systems

The current study focused on assessing the handling encryption and data loss prevention in the cloud. Cloud-based systems also known as cloud computing, increase organisational efficiency for proper data management processes. Cloud-based data loss or leakage prevention (DLP) improve data visualisation; hence, the companies can understand the risks and issues through proper data management. This study highlighted the way handling encryption and data loss prevention in the cloud can be useful for the development of business processes and for managing all operations through proper data management. IoT-based and AI-based cloud computing assess root causes and provide a clear insight into business problems. Hence, they can improve their data loss risk management services and promote continuous improvement.

Exploring risk factors of food loss and waste: A comprehensive framework using root cause analysis tools

Food loss and waste occurring early in the food supply chain leads to increased resource wastage, including land, water, fertilisers, pesticides, energy, and labour. Targeting food loss and waste prevention benefits various aspects such as food security, productivity, economic growth, climate change mitigation, resource conservation, and waste management. Understanding the causes of food loss and waste is crucial for the design of effective solutions and their prioritisation. The purpose of this study was to investigate the risk factors and underlying causes of FLW in leafy vegetables, spanning from agricultural production to retail. To achieve this, the research methodology encompassed a case study conducted among small-scale producers and retailers. A comprehensive approach was adopted by integrating a systematic literature review of global food loss and waste causes and those specific to the Latin American context. This approach was complemented by exploratory research, involving interviews with various stakeholders, coupled with root-cause analysis. A methodology was developed for the creation of a causal map, incorporating the 'Five Whys' technique, the current reality tree, and an interrelationship diagram. The study's findings underscore the critical role of retailer-supplier dynamics in the management and flow of products, identifying a significant research gap in the development of comprehensive strategies for waste reduction. By exploring these dynamics, particularly in the context of take-back agreements and the lack of public policies incentivizing food loss and waste reduction, the research reveals the multifaceted nature of food loss and waste and the necessity for collaborative efforts across the supply chain to mitigate its impacts. The application of the structured methodology provides valuable insights into the root causes and critical risk factors of FLW, offering a foundation for the development of integrated strategies aimed at reducing food loss and waste and advancing towards global sustainability goals.

Epidemiological evidence for the association between hearing loss and health in the community-dwelling population: a public health perspective on hearing loss prevention

Epidemiological evidence for the association between hearing loss and health in the community-dwelling population: a public health perspective on hearing loss prevention

Prevention of chemotherapy-related bone loss with doxorubicin-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles.

Aim: Breast cancer and its metastases involve high mortality even with advances in chemotherapy. Solid lipid nanoparticles provide a platform for drug delivery, reducing side effects and treatment-induced bone loss. A solid nanoparticle containing doxorubicin was evaluated for its ability to prevent bone loss in a pre-clinical breast cancer model.Methods: We investigated the effects of SLNDox in an aggressive metastatic stage IV breast cancer model, which has some important features that are interesting for bone loss investigation. This study evaluates bone loss prevention potential from solid lipid nanoparticles containing doxorubicin breast cancer treatment, an evaluation of the attenuation of morphological changes in bone tissue caused by the treatment and the disease and an assessment of bone loss imaging using computed tomography and electron microscopy.Results: Chemotherapy-induced bone loss was also observed in tumor-free animals; a solid lipid nanoparticle containing doxorubicin prevented damage to the growth plate and to compact and cancellous bones in the femur of tumor-bearing and healthy animals.Conclusion: The association of solid lipid nanoparticles with chemotherapeutic drugs with proven efficacy promotes the prevention of serious consequences of chemotherapy, reducing tumor progression, increasing quality of life and improving prognosis and survival.

Quality and Readability of Noise-Induced Hearing Loss Prevention-Related Websites.

This cross-sectional website analysis aimed to determine the readability and quality of English and Spanish websites pertaining to the prevention of noise-induced hearing loss. Cross-sectional website analysis. Various online search engines. We queried four popular search engines using the term "noise-induced hearing loss prevention" to reveal the top 50 English and top 50 Spanish websites for data collection. Websites meeting inclusion criteria were stratified based on the presence of a Health on the Net Code certificate (independent assessment of honesty, reliability, and quality). Websites were then independently reviewed by experts using the DISCERN criteria in order to assess information quality. Readability was calculated using the Flesch reading ease score for English and the Fernandez-Huerta formula for Spanish websites. Thirty-six English websites and 32 Spanish websites met the inclusion criteria. English websites had significantly lower readability (average = 56.34, SD = 11.17) compared to Spanish websites (average = 61.88, SD = 5.33) (P < .05). Spanish websites (average = 37, SD = 8.47) were also of significantly higher quality than English websites (average = 25.13, SD = 10.11). This study emphasizes the importance of providing quality and readable materials to patients seeking information about noise-induced hearing loss prevention. All of the English and Spanish websites reviewed were written at a level higher than the American Medical Association-recommended sixth-grade reading level. The study also highlights the need for evidence-based information online provided by experts in our field.

Noise-Induced Hearing Loss Awareness and Prevention: A Cross-Sectional Study Among the Population of the Southern Region of Saudi Arabia.

Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a prevalent and preventable health issue globally. This study aims to evaluate the symptoms, knowledge, beliefs, and preventive practices regarding NIHL among the general population of the southern region of Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional study was conducted from May to July 2024, using a self-administered, validated electronic questionnaire distributed in Arabic via social media platforms. The questionnaire assessed socio-demographic data, NIHL awareness, attitudes towardprevention, and personal practices regarding noise exposure. The sample included 400 participantsanalyzed using SPSS version 23 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY), with associations measured through the chi-square and Fisher's exact tests. Most participants were Saudi nationals (97%) and females (81.3%). Symptoms of NIHL, such as tinnitus and the need to increase TV or radio volume, were prevalent among participants. Most participants (88.5%) were aware that high sound levels affect hearing, yet only 9.5% correctly identified the minimum duration of exposure that could harm hearing. Social media was the primary source of information (51.3%). Positive preventive practices were noted, with 66% lowering device volumes and 55.3% recommending sound restrictions on tablets. Significant associations were found between better preventive practices and higher income as well as marital status. The study highlights the high basic awareness of NIHL but identifies critical knowledge gaps regarding the minimum sound level and duration that affect hearing negatively. Enhanced public health education and technological interventions are needed to improve prevention practices. Future research should include longitudinal studies and diverse populations to better understand and address NIHL.

Artificial intelligence for hearing loss prevention, diagnosis, and management

This paper explores the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI), particularly machine learning (ML), on diagnosing and treating hearing loss, which affects over 5% of the global population across all ages and demographics. AI encompasses various applications, from natural language processing models like ChatGPT to image recognition systems; however, this paper focuses on ML, a subfield of AI that can revolutionize audiology by enhancing early detection, formulating personalized rehabilitation plans, and integrating electronic health records for streamlined patient care. The integration of ML into audiometry, termed "computational audiology," allows for automated, accurate hearing tests. AI algorithms can process vast data sets, provide detailed audiograms, and facilitate early detection of hearing impairments. Research shows ML's effectiveness in classifying audiograms, conducting automated audiometry, and predicting hearing loss based on noise exposure and genetics. These advancements suggest that AI can make audiological diagnostics and treatment more accessible and efficient. The future of audiology lies in the seamless integration of AI technologies. Collaborative efforts between audiologists, AI experts, and individuals with hearing loss are essential to overcome challenges and leverage AI's full potential. Continued research and development will enhance AI applications in audiology, improving patient outcomes and quality of life worldwide.

A Survey on Balancing Data Loss Prevention (DLP) with User Privacy in a Data-Driven World

A Survey on Balancing Data Loss Prevention (DLP) with User Privacy in a Data-Driven World

Structural Problems Occurring in Reinforced Concrete Drinking Water Tanks and Water Loss Prevention Methods

Water losses occur over time due to structural deformation in buried reinforced concrete tanks built to meet the drinking water needs in living spaces. It is clear that drinking water tanks must be strengthened and waterproofed to prevent tons of water loss every year. A water-repellent coating on the concrete surface of water tanks prevents water loss as well as effectively protecting the concrete and increasing its durability. Waterproofing not only provides protection, but also prolong one's life of the building. The key to success in waterproofing all engineering structures is the proper and appropriate application of the right waterproofing materials. The aim of this study is to prevent water losses due to structural problems that occur over time in four recessed rectangular prismatic reinforced concrete clean water tanks in four different locations in a province in Turkey, to extend the life of the facility and most importantly to provide cleaner potable water to human life. Water and Sewerage Administration started maintenance, repair and waterproofing works of 15,000 m3 water tanks in the city center in 2021-2022. This article, academic articles, previous practices have been researched and it is hoped to be a solution to the problems. Considering the causes of water loss in the existing water reservoir, it is hoped that it will be a guide for the construction of a new water reservoir.