Medical Editor
Dr. Sofia Müller, MD
Lifespan & Whole-Person Care — Population health, longitudinal cohorts, care-delivery and goals-of-care research.
Dr. Sofia Müller is a freelance medical writer and physician based in Basel, Switzerland, specializing in Lifespan & Whole-Person Care with over 9+ years of combined clinical and medical writing experience. She holds an MD from the University of Zurich and is board-certified in Internal Medicine and Geriatrics. She also holds additional training in public health, palliative care, and clinical epidemiology.
Sofia focuses on population health research, longitudinal cohort studies, and care delivery models across pediatrics, women's health, geriatrics, palliative care, and primary care medicine. She has extensive experience working on studies related to aging populations, chronic disease management, and integrated care systems.
Before transitioning into medical writing, she practiced as a hospital-based internist and geriatrician, where she developed a strong interest in health systems research and patient-centered care frameworks. She is known for her ability to translate complex clinical and population-level data into clear, actionable scientific communication for diverse audiences.
Articles in this group — last 14 days
Social and emotional skills training shows non-significant reductions in loneliness among children and adolescents
Social and Emotional Training Shows Promise for Youth Loneliness
This meta-analysis of 18 studies evaluated interventions targeting loneliness, including social and emotional skills training, in youth aged…
New research looks at how social and emotional skills training can help reduce feelings of loneliness in children and teenagers.
Prenatal 6:2 Cl-PFESA exposure is associated with lower birth weight in infants across specific sub-analyses
Chemical in everyday products linked to lower birth weight
This meta-analysis of 12 studies examined the association between prenatal 6:2 Cl-PFESA exposure and infant birth weight. While no overall s…
A common chemical may reduce newborn weight by up to 20 grams. New analysis of 12 studies raises concerns for fetal health.
Self-Determination Theory framework supports maternal well-being and confidence in caring for children with autism
Self-Determination Theory Improves Well-Being for Mothers of Children with Autism
This mini review explores the application of Self-Determination Theory (SDT) to improve maternal well-being among caregivers of children wit…
Mothers of children with autism can improve their mental health and confidence by focusing on autonomy, competence, and social connection.
Congenital cytomegalovirus is associated with a 10-fold increased risk of vestibular changes in children
Children with congenital cytomegalovirus face higher risk of balance issues
This meta-analysis of 8 observational studies examined the association between congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV) and vestibular outcomes in …
Children born with a specific virus may face much higher risks for inner ear and balance problems, though more research is needed to confirm…
Ambulatory hypertension in pediatric chronic kidney disease patients increases risk of left ventricular hypertrophy
High Blood Pressure Linked to Heart Changes in Children
This meta-analysis of 51 studies involving 6509 children with chronic kidney disease found that ambulatory hypertension is associated with i…
New data shows a strong link between high blood pressure and heart muscle thickening in children with chronic kidney disease.
Early enteral feeding reduces hospital stay by 3.53 days and speeds time to full feeds
Early feeding helps children recover faster after intestinal surgery
This meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials involving 704 pediatric patients found that early enteral feeding (within 48 hours) signi…
Starting tube feedings within 48 hours of intestinal surgery can help children reach full feeds faster and spend less time in the hospital.
Systematic review protocol to assess Ghana Health Service field epidemiology preparedness
Ghana Health Service Preparedness Under Review
This protocol describes a planned systematic review to assess the preparedness of the Ghana Health Service for field epidemiology and applie…
A new review will assess how ready Ghana is to detect and respond to disease outbreaks.
Family caregivers of older adults report average scores of 3.50 for positive aspects of caregiving
Caregivers of older adults experience many positive aspects of caregiving
This meta-analysis of observational data across 12 countries examines the psychological experience of family caregivers of older adults. The…
While caring for an aging loved one is hard, research shows that family caregivers still find meaningful rewards and positive moments in the…
NICU noise levels frequently exceed recommended limits and primarily originate from alarms and respiratory devices
NICU noise levels often exceed safety limits for preterm infants
This systematic review of 113 studies identifies alarm systems and respiratory support as primary sources of high-level noise in NICUs. Whil…
Most neonatal intensive care units have noise levels much higher than recommended, especially from alarms and breathing equipment.
MIRAGE syndrome in a neonate: SAMD9 mutation links 46,XY DSD with multisystem features
Rare syndrome identified in newborn with female genitalia and XY chromosomes
This case report with literature review describes a male neonate with 46,XY karyotype and female external genitalia who was diagnosed with M…
A newborn with female genitals but male chromosomes was found to have MIRAGE syndrome, a rare genetic disorder linked to SAMD9 mutations.
Single-cell RNA sequencing reveals trophoblast and immune mechanisms in preeclampsia pathogenesis
New Sequencing Methods Reveal Hidden Mechanisms of Preeclampsia
This systematic review of single-cell RNA sequencing studies identifies impaired trophoblast differentiation, invasion, and senescence, alon…
Advanced single-cell sequencing reveals how specific cells and molecules contribute to the development of preeclampsia during pregnancy.
Sabin-strain inactivated poliovirus vaccine provides immunogenicity comparable to Salk-strain inactivated poliovirus vaccine
Sabin Strain Vaccine Shows Comparable Protection Against Polio
This systematic review and meta-analysis of 4646 infants found that Sabin-strain inactivated poliovirus vaccine (sIPV) yields seroconversion…
New analysis shows the Sabin-strain vaccine provides similar protection against polio as the Salk-strain for infants, supporting global heal…
Localized AI and policy frameworks address structural barriers to stroke care in low-income countries
New strategy aims to improve stroke care in developing regions
This narrative review explores the integration of lightweight AI models into stroke care within resource-constrained settings. The authors p…
A new framework suggests using specialized AI models to overcome staffing shortages and broken care paths for stroke patients in low-income …
Social exclusion and cultural barriers hinder substance use service access for immigrants in Europe
Social exclusion blocks immigrants from addiction care in Europe
This systematic scoping review identifies significant barriers to substance use services for immigrants in Europe, including language challe…
Language, stigma, and discrimination keep immigrants in Europe from getting help for substance use, a new review finds.
Iodine supplementation reduces serum TSH and thyroglobulin levels in iodine-deficient pregnant women
Iodine supplements help manage thyroid function in pregnant women
This meta-analysis evaluates the effects of various iodine supplementation regimens on thyroid function indices in pregnant women with iodin…
New data shows how iodine supplements can improve specific thyroid markers and levels for pregnant women facing iodine deficiency.
Reduced-dose craniospinal radiation and smaller volume boost for medulloblastoma patients
Trial Shows Reduced Radiation May Help Children With Medulloblastoma
This randomized phase 3 trial evaluated reduced-dose craniospinal radiation (18.00 Gy) and a smaller volume boost in children aged 3 to 7 wi…
A large clinical trial looked at whether reducing radiation doses for children with medulloblastoma can maintain safety and effectiveness.
Aprotinin and tranexamic acid show varying efficacy for hemostasis in neonatal cardiac surgery
Trial Shows Aprotinin May Reduce Blood Loss in Infant Heart Surgery
This network meta-analysis of 27 studies involving 4,556 patients evaluated various hemostatic strategies in neonatal and infant cardiac sur…
A large review of 4,556 patients suggests aprotinin may be more effective than other treatments for managing blood loss during infant heart …
Multimodal therapy and targeted inhibitors show modest activity for pediatric malignant rhabdoid tumor of the kidney
New Targeted Therapies Show Potential for Rare Kidney Tumors
This mini review examines multimodal therapies, EZH2 inhibition, and CDK4/6 blockade for pediatric patients with malignant rhabdoid tumor of…
Targeted treatments like EZH2 and CDK4/6 inhibitors may offer new options for children with a rare type of kidney cancer.
Deferred single-stage surgical intervention is a safe option for repairing omphalocele with congenital stoma
Surgical Repair Options for Omphalocele with Congenital Stoma
This scoping review and case report examine the management of neonates with omphalocele associated with a congenital stoma. The authors sugg…
A new look at surgical options shows that some infants with omphalocele and a congenital stoma may benefit from specific staged repair metho…
Enhanced multimedia education reduces anxiety by 4.13 points more than standard care in vitreous floaters
Multimedia Education Reduces Anxiety for Patients with Vitreous Floaters
This quasi-randomized controlled study of 309 patients with symptomatic vitreous floaters found that enhanced multimedia education resulted …
Patients with vitreous floaters may experience less anxiety when using multimedia education compared to standard care, according to a recent…
ICOPE screening tool shows preliminary feasibility for older adults but requires standardized implementation paths
New screening tool shows promise for older adults with cognitive issues
This scoping review examines the implementation, integration, and influencing factors of the ICOPE screening tool for older adults. The auth…
A global review looks at a new screening tool to help identify early signs of cognitive decline in older adults across different cultures.
Interrupted suturing shows no significant difference from continuous suturing in TIP urethroplasty for hypospadias
Suturing technique does not affect hypospadias surgery outcomes
This systematic review and meta-analysis of 2,625 patients compared interrupted and continuous suturing techniques during tubularised incise…
For boys having hypospadias repair, interrupted and continuous suturing lead to similar complication rates, a new analysis finds.
Fluconazole resolves pulmonary cryptococcosis in immunocompetent adolescent
Fluconazole treats lung infection in a healthy 14-year-old girl
This case report and literature review describes a 14-year-old immunocompetent girl with pulmonary cryptococcosis who was successfully treat…
A rare lung infection caused by fungus can occur in children without weakened immune systems, and fluconazole treatment showed success.
Intensive lifestyle intervention protocol designed to identify predictors of weight loss success
New plan seeks personalized ways to manage weight and obesity
This randomized controlled trial protocol describes a study involving 600 individuals with varying BMI levels. The study aims to evaluate an…
A new trial design aims to find specific signs that predict if intensive lifestyle changes will work for people with weight concerns.
tDCS improves core symptoms and social communication in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders
Trial shows tDCS improves social communication for children with autism
This meta-analysis of randomized sham-controlled trials evaluated transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) for autism spectrum disorde…
A review of clinical trials suggests that transcranial direct current stimulation may improve social and communication skills in children wi…
Malaria vaccines RTS,S/AS01 and R21/Matrix-M reduce malaria risk in children
Malaria vaccines cut risk by 23% in infants, 39% in toddlers
This systematic review and meta-analysis of 8 studies found that RTS,S/AS01 and R21/Matrix-M vaccines reduce malaria risk in children. In th…
Two malaria vaccines, RTS,S and R21, reduce malaria risk by 23% in young infants and 39% in older children, a review finds.
Gain-framed messages increase relative importance of high-in labels on food choices in Brazilian adults
Positive Messages Boost Impact of Warning Labels on Foods
This randomized controlled trial involved 1043 Brazilian adults exposed to gain-framed, loss-framed, neutral communication messages or a con…
Gain-framed messages about high-in labels made them more important to shoppers than brand or taste claims.
POCUS-assisted catheterization increases first-attempt success to 89.7% versus 72.5% in children under 36 months
Ultrasound guidance boosts first-attempt success for catheters in young children
This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated real-time POCUS-assisted urethral catheterization versus standard blind techniques in chi…
Using ultrasound guidance during catheterization in young children significantly increased first-attempt success and reduced dry taps compar…
Strengthened care continuum reduced wasting incidence and severe acute malnutrition in children
New program helps more children in Mali get better nutrition care and avoid wasting
This cluster-randomized controlled trial evaluated a strengthened continuum of care for child wasting in Mali, including screening and small…
A new health program in Mali helped more children get screened and treated for malnutrition. Families received better support to keep their …
Smoking and alcohol linked to higher psoriasis risk in large meta-analysis
Smoking raises psoriasis risk significantly while alcohol shows a smaller effect
This systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies involving more than 25 million participants found that smoking (RR 1.67) a…
Smoking increases the chance of developing psoriasis, and even quitting keeps that risk higher than never smoking. Alcohol also plays a role…
Cross-cultural adaptation of the Mindful Eating Scale shows strong psychometric properties in overweight and obese Chinese individuals
New mindful eating scale shows promise for overweight Chinese patients
This cross-sectional review assesses the psychometric properties of the cross-cultural adaptation of the Mindful Eating Scale (MES) in 217 o…
A new mindful eating scale adapted for Chinese culture shows strong reliability in a group of overweight and obese patients at a Hangzhou ho…
Breastfeeding and milk odor reduce pain scores and crying duration in term and preterm infants
Breast milk sensory exposure may ease pain in newborn infants
This umbrella review and meta-analytic reanalysis evaluates breastfeeding, breast milk odor, and breast milk taste for pain management in te…
An umbrella review suggests breastfeeding and breast milk odor or taste can reduce pain and crying in term and preterm infants.
Semantic FAIRness framework proposed to enhance COVID-19 data integration in the UAE
New data integration framework proposed for UAE COVID-19 research
This narrative review proposes a semantic FAIRness framework for integrating and analyzing COVID-19 epidemiological data in the UAE. The fra…
A new framework aims to improve how epidemiological data is integrated and analyzed for COVID-19 research in the UAE, though it has not yet …
Public health interventions improve mental health in young people in LMICs: systematic review
Public health interventions improve mental health in young people in LMICs
A systematic review of 30 studies found that public health interventions, including digital health, improved mental health outcomes in young…
A review of 30 studies finds that public health interventions, including digital tools, can improve mental health in young people in low-inc…
Regulatory suspension prohibits DCLVA use for Alzheimer's disease due to unresolved physiological uncertainties and scientific gaps
Regulatory suspension blocks use of DCLVA for Alzheimer's disease
This narrative review examines the potential of deep cervical lymphaticovenous anastomosis (DCLVA) for patients with Alzheimer's disease. Th…
A regulatory suspension currently prohibits using Deep cervical lymphaticovenous anastomosis for Alzheimer's disease because major scientifi…
Endoscopic ear surgery reduces operative time and complications versus microscopic surgery for congenital ossicular malformation
Endoscopic surgery cuts time and serious risks for congenital ear malformations
This meta-analysis reviews data from 304 patients (320 ears) with congenital ossicular malformation comparing endoscopic ear surgery (EES) t…
A review of 304 patients found endoscopic ear surgery was faster and linked to fewer serious complications than microscopic surgery for cong…
Gut microbiota dysbiosis shows strong observational link to endometriosis in reproductive-aged women
Gut bacteria linked to endometriosis, review finds
This narrative review examines the association between gut microbiota dysbiosis and endometriosis in reproductive-aged women. The authors re…
A review of studies finds a strong link between gut bacteria imbalances and endometriosis, but can't prove cause and effect.
Pediatric movement disorders cause caregiver stress, anxiety, depression, and physical strain
Caregivers of children with movement disorders face common stress and anxiety
This brief narrative review synthesizes literature on the psychological impact of pediatric movement disorders on caregivers and families. I…
A review finds caregivers of children with movement disorders often experience stress, anxiety, and depression, but peer support and counsel…
AI-enabled precision nutrition tools using multimodal data address measurement error in research and practice
New tools help track diet and health using sensors and personal data to guide better choices
This review discusses the application of AI-enabled precision nutrition tools using multimodal data. The authors suggest that frameworks and…
Experts reviewed how AI tools using wearables and lab tests can improve diet tracking. These methods help reduce errors in what people repor…
Renal denervation value framework prioritizes efficacy and safety for Chinese hospital procurement
Experts build framework to assess renal denervation therapy value in China
This narrative review constructs a comprehensive value assessment framework for renal denervation (RDN) therapy in Chinese hospitals. The fr…
A new framework helps Chinese hospitals evaluate renal denervation therapy by weighing factors like safety, efficacy, and patient value.
Current literature lacks research on myocardial infarction warning signs within transgender and gender diverse populations in the United States
No clear guide exists for transgender heart attack warning signs in the United States
A brief review highlights a critical gap in understanding heart attack symptoms for transgender and gender diverse individuals. More researc…
A review found no current research on heart attack warning signs for transgender people, leaving them without standard heart health educatio…
Pleuropulmonary blastoma diagnosed after initial rhabdomyosarcoma interpretation in a 2-year-old boy
Case report shows rare lung cancer in toddler with DICER1
This case report describes a 2-year-old boy with a thoracic mass initially interpreted as embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma, later diagnosed as ple…
A toddler’s lung tumor was reclassified as a rare cancer linked to DICER1 syndrome, changing his treatment and highlighting a key diagnosis …
Climate change alters outdoor activity suitability and creates asymmetric bidirectional environmental impacts across 47 studies
Climate change alters outdoor activity opportunities and safety risks globally
This systematic review synthesizes evidence from 47 global studies on how climate change affects outdoor activities. Findings indicate an as…
A review of 47 studies shows climate change affects outdoor activities through rising temperatures and extreme weather, while feedback from …
Clinicians must remain attentive to functional impairment and loss of control in problematic use of generative AI chatbots
Problematic AI chatbot use needs careful attention before it becomes a formal diagnosis
This narrative review addresses the problematic use of generative AI chatbots (PUGAIC). The authors note that current evidence remains limit…
Current evidence on problematic AI chatbot use is limited and mostly cross-sectional. Clinicians should watch for functional impairment and …
Physical exercise therapy may support osteosarcopenia management in elderly patients according to this narrative review
Exercise may help fight bone and muscle loss in aging
This narrative review discusses physical exercise therapy for osteosarcopenia in the elderly population. The authors outline potential benef…
A new review suggests physical exercise could slow bone and muscle loss in older adults with osteosarcopenia.
High-Dose Vitamin D and Low-Dose Vitamin A May Reduce Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia in Preterm Infants
High-Dose Vitamin D May Reduce BPD in Preterm Infants
A network meta-analysis of 4357 preterm infants found that high-dose vitamin D (≥800 IU/d) most notably reduced bronchopulmonary dysplasia i…
A large analysis of preterm infants found that high-dose vitamin D (≥800 IU/day) may lower the risk of bronchopulmonary dysplasia, while low…
Datopotamab deruxtecan showed no overall survival benefit versus investigator's choice chemotherapy in metastatic HR-positive breast cancer.
Datopotamab deruxtecan extends life for advanced breast cancer patients
This Phase III randomized controlled trial evaluated datopotamab deruxtecan versus investigator's choice chemotherapy in patients with inope…
New drug datopotamab deruxtecan helps advanced breast cancer patients live longer and stay disease-free
Phase II pilot study of hu14.18K322A plus chemotherapy in 153 children with high-risk neuroblastoma
New Antibody Boosts Survival in High-Risk Neuroblastoma
This Phase II pilot study enrolled 153 previously untreated children with high-risk neuroblastoma. The study assessed hu14.18K322A combined …
This study shows that combining a new antibody with standard chemotherapy may improve survival rates for children with high-risk neuroblasto…
Systematic review develops quality index for outpatient care in stomatology
New tool measures outpatient care quality in Chinese hospitals
This systematic review details the development of a three-dimensional evaluation index system for outpatient healthcare quality in stomatolo…
A new index system measures outpatient care quality in Chinese stomatological hospitals, focusing on process, outcome, and structure.
Meta-analysis finds no significant association between statin use and sarcopenia in older adults
Large review finds no clear link between statin use and muscle loss in older adults
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 9,080 older adults from European and Asian populations found no statistically significant associati…
A large review of over 9,000 older adults found no clear link between taking statins and losing muscle mass or strength.
Erratum issued for previous report on pediatric melatonin ingestions in the US
Correction issued for earlier report on children swallowing melatonin
An erratum has been published for a prior report on pediatric melatonin ingestions in the United States. No study details, results, or corre…
A journal correction warns that a report on children swallowing melatonin contains an error, leaving the public without clear facts until de…
Low-intensity cervical screening shows similar CIN2+ risk to high-intensity screening in HPV-vaccinated women
Study finds similar cervical cancer risk with less frequent screening for HPV-vaccinated women
An RCT in Finland followed 5626 women vaccinated against HPV16/18 as adolescents, comparing low-intensity to high-intensity cytology-based s…
HPV-vaccinated women aged 12 to 15 face the same cervical cancer risk whether screened every three years or every five years, according to n…
DOHH mutation in a 10-year-old boy links cardiomyopathy, hypoparathyroidism, and neurodevelopmental delays
A 10-year-old boy reveals new clues about DOHH-related disorders and heart issues
This case report describes a 10-year-old boy with a homozygous DOHH mutation presenting with cardiomyopathy, hypoparathyroidism, and neurode…
A case report describes a 10-year-old boy with a rare genetic condition. His symptoms were milder than expected, offering hope for families …
Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome with IgA nephropathy requires early recognition and multidisciplinary management
Kidney and immune issues linked to rare blood disorders in a boy
This narrative review and case presentation describes a 10-year-old boy with Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome/X-linked thrombocytopenia and IgA neph…
A 10-year-old boy with rare blood disorders developed kidney disease, showing how these conditions can affect multiple organs.
Digital Tai Chi improves cognitive function and depressive symptoms in older adults: meta-analysis
Digital Tai Chi shows cognitive and mood gains for older adults
This systematic review and meta-analysis of 907 older adults found that digital Tai Chi interventions significantly improved global cognitiv…
A review of digital Tai Chi finds it can improve thinking skills and ease depression in older adults, with no clear edge for balance or mobi…
Women in psychiatric and forensic units face distinct gender-based violence and coercion experiences
Review reveals specific care needs for women in psychiatric and forensic units
This integrative review of 54 articles synthesizes evidence on gender-based violence experiences among women in psychiatric and forensic uni…
A review of 54 articles shows current care often misses the specific needs of women in psychiatric and forensic settings.
Nursing students show moderately positive attitudes toward older adult care across 11 countries
Nursing students across 11 countries show strong attitudes toward caring for older adults
This systematic review and meta-analysis of 19,933 nursing students across 11 countries found moderately positive attitudes toward older adu…
A review of 12,000 nursing students found they hold positive views on caring for older people, though study quality varied.
Health literacy strategies improve outcomes for students and staff in educational institutions
School health literacy strategies show improved outcomes
This scoping review examines 37 interventions involving health literacy strategies in educational institutions. All studies reported improve…
A review of 37 school-based programs found that health literacy strategies can improve student and staff outcomes across many health topics.
Cultural and Islamic values shape menopausal perceptions and health-seeking behavior in Saudi women
Cultural values shape how Saudi women experience menopause
This narrative review examines menopause experiences among Saudi women in primary healthcare settings. The authors synthesize qualitative fi…
A review shows cultural and Islamic values strongly influence how Saudi women perceive menopause and choose coping strategies.
Interdisciplinary early developmental intervention programs may offer small benefits for selective attention and behavioral problems in preterm children
Early programs may help some preterm children but not all developmental areas
This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated interdisciplinary early developmental intervention programs (EI) for children born preter…
A review of 2,315 infants suggests early developmental programs may help attention and behavior, but show little effect on language or schoo…