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Triglyceride‐glucose index is strongly associated with all‐cause mortality in elderly females with diabetic foot ulcers: A 9‐year follow‐up study

Abstract

This study aims to explore the association between the triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index and all-cause mortality in patients with diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) through an ambispective cohort study. A total of 555 inpatients with DFUs were qualified to participate in the trial study from 2013 to 2022. Throughout a median 63-month period, all subjects were followed up every 6 months. According to the three quantiles of the TyG index, participants were divided into three groups: low-level (≤8.75, n = 185), moderate-level (8.76–9.33, n = 185) and high-level (≥9.34, n = 185). The association between the TyG index and all-cause mortality in patients with DFUs was then assessed. During the follow-up period, out of 555 patients with DFUs, 116 died (20.9%). After adjusting for confounding factors, the TyG index was positively associated with all-cause mortality in patients with DFUs (HR = 1.733; 95% CI = 1.341–2.241; p < 0.001). Compared with the low-level TyG index, the moderate-level TyG index (HR = 1.685; 95% CI = 1.011–2.810; p = 0.045) and the high-level TyG index (HR = 2.769; 95% CI = 1.678–4.568; p < 0.001) were positively correlated with all-cause mortality in patients with DFUs. Additionally, in subgroup analysis, both females (HR = 1.905; 95% CI = 1.250–2.904; p = 0.003), males (HR = 1.729; 95% CI = 1.240–2.409; p = 0.001), younger (<65 years old) (HR = 1.467; 95% CI = 1.008–2.135; p = 0.046) and elderly (≥ 65) (HR = 1.933; 95% CI = 1.339–2.791; p < 0.001) showed a positive correlation between TyG index and all-cause mortality rate in patients with DFUs. Furthermore, in the high-level TyG index group compared, males (HR = 2.699; 95% CI = 1.457–4.998) and participants aged <65 years (HR = 2.031; 95% CI = 0.972–4.242), with the TyG index level increase by 1.0, the risk for all-cause mortality increased 3.277-fold in females (HR = 4.277; 95% CI = 1.645–11.124) and 1.909-fold in elderly aged ≥65 years (HR = 2.909; 95% CI = 1.486–5.695), respectively. Kaplan–Meier survival curve analysis showed that the higher the TyG index level, the higher risk of all-cause mortality in patients with DFUs (log-rank, all p < 0.001). Briefly, this study implies a strong positive correlation between the TyG index and all-cause mortality in patients with DFUs, especially in older women. Therefore, special attention should be paid to elderly females with DFUs because they have a higher TyG index level and risk of all-cause mortality than other populations in daily clinical practice.

Characterising respiratory infections among hospitalised children during the COVID-19 pandemic in southeastern China: a cross-sectional study of pathogens and clinical association

Por: Huang · H. · Wu · B. · Lin · W.
Objective

Children with acute respiratory tract infections (ARTIs) pose significantly burden on healthcare facilities due to high hospitalisation rates and mortality. However, limited epidemiological and clinical characteristics data on ARTIs in southeastern China during the COVID-19 pandemic exists.

Design

Cross-sectional.

Setting

Tertiary hospital associated with the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, China.

Participants

1007 hospitalised children diagnosed with ARTIs, aged 30 days to 15 years, were enrolled in this study from 1 January 2020 to 31 December 2021.

Outcome measure

The primary outcomes are the rate of pathogen infections in children with ARTIs. Secondary outcomes are the description of risk factors associated with ARTIs in children.

Results

Of the 1007 enrolled children, 28.2%, 42.2%, 21.8% and 7.7% were diagnosed with upper respiratory tract infection, bronchopneumonia, bronchitis and pneumonia, respectively. Mycoplasma pneumoniae (MP) was the most prevalent pathogen (31.9%), followed by influenza B virus (IFVB; 29.1%) and influenza A virus (IFVA; 19.1%). The study found that children under 1 year old (older than 30 days: ORIFVB=12.50; ORMP=8.53), children aged 1–3 years (ORMP=1.62), the winter season (ORIFVA=1.36), the time from symptoms onset to hospitalisation (ORMP=1.10) and increased precipitation (ORLP=1.01) were high-risk factors for ARTIs.

Conclusion

This investigation offers significant insights into the prevalence and distribution of common pathogens among children experiencing ARTIs in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The discernment of high-risk factors linked to these pathogens enhances our understanding of the epidemiological characteristics of ARTIs in children.

Effect of extracorporeal shock wave combined with Kinesio taping on upper limb function during individuals with biceps brachii tendinopathy:protocol for a double-blind, randomised controlled trial

Por: Liu · K. · Yin · L. · Zhang · Y. · Huang · L. · Liu · G. · Zhu · R. · Fang · P. · Ma · Y. · Ma · Z.
Introduction

Long head of biceps brachii tendinopathy (LHBT) is characterised by persistent pain and disability of shoulder joint, impairing patients’ quality of life. Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) is a non-invasive treatment, which promotes tissue regeneration and repair. However, ESWT has a side effect that often causes short-term pain and swelling in the treatment area. It is known that the effects of Kinesio taping (KT) on relieving swelling and pain. Due to insufficient clinical evidence from current limited studies, this randomised controlled study aims to explore the effects of ESWT combined with KT on upper limb function during individuals with LHBT.

Methods and analysis

A 2x2 factorial design, double-blind, randomised controlled trial will be conducted. A total of 144 participants will be randomly allocated into one of four groups (KT+ESWT, KT+sham ESWT, sham KT+ESWT or sham KT+sham ESWT) to participate in a 4-week treatment programme. Measurements will be taken at pretreatment (baseline), immediately after treatment and 6 weeks after treatment. The primary endpoint will be the Constant-Murley score (CMS), the secondary endpoints will include the pain Numerical Rating Scale, range of motion, pressure pain threshold and soft tissue hardness of biceps, speed test and global rating of change. Repeated measures analysis of variance will be used to compare differences among the effects of different interventions.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval was obtained from the Ethics Committee of the Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine. In addition to international conference reports, findings will be disseminated through international publications in peer-reviewed journals.

Trial registration number

ChiCTR2100051324.

Care models for patients with heart failure at home: A systematic review

Abstract

Aims

The aim of this study is to evaluate the relative merits of various heart failure models of care with regard to a variety of outcomes.

Design

Systematic review.

Data Sources

Five databases including PubMed, Web of Science, Medline, Embase and Science Direct were searched from the inception date of databases to August 20, 2022.

Review Methods

This review used the Cochrane Collaboration's ‘Risk of Bias’ tool to assess quality. Only randomised controlled trails were included in this review that assessed all care models in the management of adults with heart failure. A categorical summary of the pattern of the papers was found, followed by extraction of outcome indicators.

Results

Twenty articles (19 studies) were included. Seven examined nurse-led care, two examined multidisciplinary specialist care, nine (10 articles) examined patient self-management, and one examined nurse and physiotherapist co-led care. Regarding outcomes, this review examined how well the four models performed with regard to quality of life, health services use, HF self-care, and anxiety and depression for heart failure patients. The model of patient self-management showed more beneficial results than nurse-led care, multidisciplinary specialist care, and nurse and physiotherapist co-led care in reducing hospital days, improving symptoms, promoting self-care behaviours of HF patients, enhancing the quality of life, and strengthening self-care ability.

Conclusions

This systematic review synthesises the different care models and their relative effectiveness. Four different models of care were summarised. Of these models, the self-management model demonstrated better outcomes.

Impact

The self-management model is more effective in increasing self-management behaviours and self-management abilities, lowering the risk of hospitalisation and death, improving quality of life, and relieving anxiety and depression than other models.

No Patient or Public Contribution

There was no funding to remunerate a patient/member of the public for this review.

Evaluation of the therapeutic efficiency and efficacy of blood purification in the treatment of severe acute pancreatitis

by Hongwei Huang, Zhongshi Huang, Menghua Chen, Ken Okamoto

This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy and effect of blood purification (BP) therapy on severe acute pancreatitis (SAP). Information on 305 patients (BP group 68, control group 237) diagnosed with SAP was retrieved from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV (MIMIC IV) database. Firstly, the influence of BP treatment was preliminarily evaluated by comparing the outcome indicators of the two groups. Secondly, multiple regression analysis was used to screen the mortality risk factors to verify the impact of BP on the survival outcome of patients. Then, the effect of BP treatment was re-validated with baseline data. Finally, cox regression was used to make the survival curve after matching to confirm whether BP could affect the death outcome. The results indicated that the BP group had a lower incidence of shock (p = 0.012), but a higher incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI) (p p = 0.133), indicating that BP treatment had no significant effect on the survival outcome of patients with SAP. Although BP is beneficial in stabilizing hemodynamics, it has no effect on short- and long-term mortality of patients. The application of this technology in the treatment of SAP should be done with caution until appropriate BP treatment methods are developed, particularly for patients who are not able to adapt to renal replacement therapy.

Association of Kawasaki disease with urbanization level and family characteristics in Taiwan: A nested case–control study using national-level data

by Chung-Fang Tseng, Hsiao-Chen Lin, Chung-Yuh Tzeng, Jing-Yang Huang, Chih-Jung Yeh, James Cheng-Chung Wei

Kawasaki disease (KD) is an inflammatory vasculitis disorder of unknown etiology. It is a rare but fatal disease and the leading cause of acquired coronary heart disease in children under the age of 5 years. We examined the association of KD with the demographics of family members, parents’ characteristics, and perinatal factors in Taiwanese children. This nested case–control study used data from Taiwan’s Health and Welfare Data Science Center and initially included children born in Taiwan between January 1, 2006, and December 31, 2015 (n = 1,939,449); the children were observed for KD development before the age of 5 years (n = 7870). The control group consisted of children without KD who were matched with each KD case by sex and birth date at a ratio of 8:1. The odds ratio (ORs) of the aforementioned associations were estimated using conditional logistic regression. The risk of KD decreased in children with younger parents [

Changing epidemiology, microbiology and mortality of bloodstream infections in patients with haematological malignancies before and during SARS-CoV-2 pandemic: a retrospective cohort study

Por: Cai · L. · Chen · H. · Wei · Y. · Guo · X. · Zheng · H. · Jiang · X. · Zhang · Y. · Yu · G. · Dai · M. · Ye · J. · Zhou · H. · Xu · D. · Huang · F. · Fan · Z. · Xu · N. · Shi · P. · Xuan · L. · Feng · R. · Liu · X. · Sun · J. · Liu · Q. · Wei · X.
Objective

This study was to explore the changes in bacterial bloodstream infection (BSI) in patients with haematological malignancies (HMs) before and during SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.

Design

Retrospective cohort study between 2018 and 2021.

Setting

The largest haematological centre in southern China.

Results

A total of 599 episodes of BSI occurring in 22 717 inpatients from January 2018 to December 2021 were analysed. The frequencies of the total, Gram-negative and Gram-positive BSI before and during the pandemic were 2.90% versus 2.35% (p=0.011), 2.49% versus 1.77% (p

Conclusion

Our data showed that the incidence of total and Gram-negative organisms BSI decreased, but Gram-positive BSI incidence increased in patients with HMs during the pandemic along with the changes of main isolates and susceptibility profiles. Although the 30-day mortality due to BSI was lower during the pandemic, the new infection prevention strategy should be considered for any future pandemics.

The impact of nurses' experiences of hospital violence on resilience: A mediated moderation model

Abstract

Aims

This study aims to investigate the impact of nurses' experiences of hospital violence on resilience, the mediating effect of trust in patients and the moderating effect of organizational trust.

Background

Despite belonging to the central part of health care worldwide and being the leading provider of medical services, nurses are often subjected to hospital violence, which affects their physical and mental well-being. Trust is a high-order mechanism that encourages positive thinking and personal and professional development. However, research into the impact of trust on resilience concerning nurses' experiences of hospital violence is limited.

Methods

The participants were 2331 nurses working in general hospitals in China. A cross-sectional survey was conducted, and data were collected via questionnaires from July to October 2022 and analysed using SPSS 25.0 and SPSS PROCESS 3.3 macros. This study was prepared and reported according to the STROBE checklist.

Results

Mean trust in patients was 48.00 ± 10.86 (12–60), mean organizational trust was 56.19 ± 8.90 (13–65) and mean resilience was 78.63 ± 19.26 (0–100). Nurses' experience of hospital violence had a direct negative effect on resilience (β = −.096, p = .871), a significant adverse effect on trust in patients (β = −3.022, p < .001) and a significant positive effect on trust in patients on resilience (β = 1.464, p < .001). Trusting patients played a mediating role. The significant moderating effect of organizational trust between experience of hospital violence and trust in patients was moderated by a mediating effect index of −0.1867 (95% CI = [−0.3408, −0.0345]).

Conclusions

Nurses' experience of hospital violence exerted a negative effect on resilience, trust in patients had a fully mediated effect and organizational trust had a significant moderating influence in the pathway from nurses' experience of hospital violence to patients' trust-mediated resilience.

Implications for Nursing and Health Policy

This study highlights the impact of nurses' experiences of hospital violence on resilience and explores the importance of trust from the nurses' perspective. Measures taken by managers to provide nurses with a safe, trusting and positive work environment can be highly beneficial in enhancing nurse resilience.

Evaluating the impact of ultrasound‐guided subsheath versus extrasheath sciatic nerve block on postoperative wound pain in tibial and foot surgeries: A systematic review and meta‐analysis

Abstract

This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluate the impact of ultrasound-guided subsheath versus extrasheath sciatic nerve blocks on postoperative wound pain in tibial and foot surgeries, crucial for effective pain management and patient recovery. Adhering to PRISMA guidelines, this study used a PICO framework, focusing on patients undergoing tibial and foot surgeries and comparing the efficacy and safety of subsheath and extrasheath sciatic nerve blocks. The literature search spanned four databases without time restrictions, assessing various outcomes like success rate, onset time, duration of analgesia and complication rates. Quality assessment employed the Cochrane Collaboration's risk of bias tool, and statistical analyses included heterogeneity assessment, fixed-effect and random-effects models, sensitivity analysis and publication bias evaluation using funnel plots and Egger's linear regression test. From an initial pool of 1213 articles, six met the inclusion criteria. The subsheath group showed a significantly higher success rate of complete sensory blockade within 30 min compared with the extrasheath group (OR = 5.39; 95% CI: 2.82–10.28; p < 0.01). No significant differences were found in procedure duration or incidence of nerve-related complications between the two techniques. The subsheath approach also demonstrated a quicker onset time of sensory blockade (MD = −8.57; 95% CI: −11.27 to −5.88; p < 0.01). Sensitivity analysis confirmed the stability of the results, and no significant publication bias was detected. Ultrasound-guided subsheath sciatic nerve blocks are more effective than extrasheath blocks in achieving rapid and complete sensory blockade for tibial and foot surgeries, with a quicker onset time and comparable safety profile. Subsheath injections are thus recommended as a preferred method for anaesthesia and postoperative pain management in these surgical procedures, enhancing overall patient outcomes.

Influencing factors of falls among older adults in Chinese retirement institutions: A systematic review and meta-analysis

by Xiaoxing Huang, Yunlan Jiang, Yaxin Liu, Liyin Shen, Jing Pan, Yue Zhang

Background

The incidence of falling has always been high among the elderly, and it was easy to cause injuries to the elderly and seriously affect their quality of life. There were many studies have been conducted on risk factors affecting the fall of the elderly, but the results widely, retirement institutions as a gathering place for the elderly, there was currently no comprehensive analysis of the factors related to elderly falls in pension institutions. This study aimed to explore the influencing factors of falls among older adults in Chinese nursing homes.

Methods

Chinese and English databases were searched for literature published from database inception to 5 April 2023 on the influencing factors of falls among older adults in Chinese nursing homes. Two reviewers independently screened articles, extracted data, and assessed the quality of the included studies. Meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.4 software.

Results

Eleven studies involving 3503 participants were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled estimate of falls among older adults in Chinese nursing homes was 32% [95% confidence interval (95%CI) (24.0%, 39.0%)]. The main influencing factors for falls among older adults in Chinese nursing homes were age (Odds Ratio (OR) = 1.53), gender (OR = 5.50), visual impairment (OR = 2.30), sedative-hypnotics (OR = 2.36), fear of falling (OR = 2.95), hypertension (OR = 3.72), static balance (OR = 2.02), three or more chronic diseases (OR = 5.63), cognitive status (OR = 2.64), walking aid use (OR = 1.98), fall-related chronic diseases (OR = 2.48), self-awareness of abilities (OR = 2.43), and frequent reminders for fall prevention (OR = 0.10).

Conclusion

Falls among older adults in Chinese nursing homes were common, and there were many influencing factors. Timely screening and intervention should be implemented to reduce the adverse consequences of falls on older adults.

Trial registration

Registration number: CRD42023421099.

A meta‐analysis of the risk factors for neurosurgical surgical site infection following craniotomy

Abstract

The purpose of the meta-analysis was to evaluate and compare the risk factors for neurosurgical surgical site infection (SSI) after craniotomy. Using dichotomous or contentious random or fixed effect models, the odds ratio (OR) and mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were computed based on the examination of the meta-analysis results. Eighteen analyses, covering 11 068 craniotomies between 2001 and 2023, were included in the current meta-analysis. Subjects with SSIs had a significantly younger age (MD, −2.49; 95% CI, −2.95 to −2.04, p < 0.001), longer operation duration (MD, 10.21; 95% CI, 6.49–13.94, p < 0.001) and longer length of postoperative hospital stay (MD, 1.52; 95% CI, 0.45–2.60, p = 0.006) compared to subjects with no SSI with craniotomy. However, no significant difference was found between craniotomy subjects with SSIs and with no SSI in gender (OR, 0.90; 95% CI, 0.76–1.07, p = 0.23), and combination with other infection (OR, 3.93; 95% CI, 0.28–56.01, p = 0.31). The data that were looked at showed that younger age, longer operation duration and longer length of postoperative hospital stay can be considered as risk factors of SSI in subjects with craniotomy; however, gender and combination with other infections are not. Nonetheless, consideration should be given to their values because several studies only involved a small number of patients, and there are not many studies available for some comparisons.

Association between the number of retrieved lymph nodes and demographic/tumour-related characteristics in colorectal cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Por: Liu · Q. · Huang · M. · Yang · J. · Jiang · M. · Zhao · Z. · Zhao · H. · He · T. · Bai · Y. · Zhang · R. · Zhang · M.
Objective

Clinical practice guidelines recommend retrieving at least 12 lymph nodes for correct staging in colorectal cancer. However, it is difficult to retrieve adequate lymph nodes because of various factors. We aimed to evaluate the association between the number of retrieved lymph nodes and demographic/tumour-related characteristics in colorectal cancer.

Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis of primary studies.

Data sources

PubMed, Embase, Cochrane and Web of Science were searched from January 2016 to June 2023.

Eligibility criteria for selecting studies

Studies that evaluated the association between retrieved lymph nodes and demographic/tumour-related characteristics in colorectal cancer were included.

Data extraction and synthesis

OR with 95% conference intervals was extracted and pooled.

Results

A total of 54 studies containing 2 05 821 patients were included in this meta-analysis. The results showed that fewer nodes were retrieved from elderly patients (OR=0.70, 95% CI (0.54 to 0.90), p=0.005), and from tumours located in the left colon than in the right colon (OR=0.43, 95% CI (0.33 to 0.56), p

Conclusions

The study results suggest that clinicians have an increased opportunity to retrieve sufficient lymph nodes for accurate pathological staging to guide treatment decisions in patients with colorectal cancer who are young, female, with tumours located in the right colon, advanced T stage and N2 stage.

Nationwide survey of physicians familiarity and awareness of diabetes guidelines in China: a cross-sectional study

Por: Jia · L.-y. · Huang · C.-x. · Zhao · N.-j. · Lai · B.-y. · Zhang · Z.-h. · Li · L. · Zhan · N. · Lin · Y.-b. · Cai · M.-n. · Wang · S.-q. · Yan · B. · Liu · J.-p. · Yang · S.-y.
Objective

This study aims to investigate physicians’ familiarity and awareness of four diabetes guidelines and their practice of the recommendations outlined in these guidelines.

Design

A cross-sectional study.

Setting

An online questionnaire survey was conducted among physicians affiliated with the Specialist Committee for Primary Diabetes Care of China Association of Chinese Medicine, using the snowball sampling method to ensure a broader representation of physicians.

Participants

1150 physicians from 192 cities across 30 provinces in China provided complete data.

Results

Tertiary care hospital physicians (TCPs) exhibited the highest familiarity with the Guideline for the Prevention and Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in China (91.3%), followed by the National Guidelines for the Prevention and Control of Diabetes in Primary Care (76.8%), the Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes (72.2%) and the Guidelines for Prevention and Treatment of Diabetes in Chinese Medicine (63.8%). Primary care practitioners (PCPs) exhibited familiarity with these four guidelines at about 50% or less. Self-reported reference to modern diabetes guidelines by physicians is more frequent than traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) diabetes guidelines, with rates at 73.2% and 33.8%, respectively. Approximately 90% of physicians provided instructions on self-monitoring of blood glucose to their patients with diabetes. Less than one-third of physicians referred patients to a specialised nutritionist. In terms of health education management, TCPs reported having a diabetes health management team at the rate of 75.7%, followed by secondary care hospital physicians at 57.0% and PCPs at 27.5%. Furthermore, approximately 40% of physicians did not fully grasp hypoglycaemia characteristics.

Conclusions

Familiarity and awareness of the screening guidelines varied among physicians in different hospital settings. Importantly, significant discrepancies were observed between physicians’ awareness and their self-reported reference to modern medicine guidelines and TCM guidelines. It is essential to consistently provide education and training on diabetes management for all physicians, particularly PCPs.

Visualizing the global trends of peptides in wound healing through an in‐depth bibliometric analysis

Abstract

Wound healing is a complicated and multistage biological process for the repair of damaged/injured tissues, which requires intelligent designs to provide comprehensive and convenient treatment. Peptide-based wound dressings have received extensive attention for further development and application due to their excellent biocompatibility and multifunctionality. However, the current lack of intuitive analysis of the development trend and research hotspots of peptides applied in wound healing, as well as detailed elaboration of possible research hotspots, restricted obtaining a comprehensive understanding and development in this field. The present study analysed publications from the Web of Science (WOS) Core Collection database and visualized the hotspots and current trends of peptide research in wound healing. Data between January 1st, 2003, and December 31st, 2022, were collected and subjected to a bibliometric analysis. The countries, institutions, co-authorship, co-citation reference, and co-occurrence of keywords in this subject were examined using VOSviewer and CiteSpace. We provided an intuitive, timely, and logical overview of the development prospects and challenges of peptide application in wound healing and some solutions to the major obstacles, which will help researchers gain insights into the investigation of this promising field.

Establishment and validation of a prediction model for myocarditis in Chinese children below 14 years old: a protocol for a retrospective cohort study

Por: Wu · L. · Ji · W. · Huang · Y. · Zeng · H. · Chen · J. · Zou · Y. · Lin · W. · Lin · Y.
Introduction

Paediatric myocarditis, a rare inflammatory disease, often presents without clear early symptoms. Although cardiac troponin I levels can aid in diagnosing myocarditis, they are not definitive indicators. Troponin I levels frequently fluctuate within and outside the reference range, potentially causing misinterpretations by clinicians. Although a negative troponin I result is valuable for excluding myocarditis, its specificity is low. Moreover, the clinical diagnosis of paediatric myocarditis is exceptionally challenging, and accurate early-stage diagnosis and treatment pose difficulties. Currently, the Dallas criteria, involving cardiac biopsy, serves as the gold standard for myocarditis diagnosis. However, this method has several drawbacks and is unsuitable for children, resulting in its limited use.

Methods and analysis

In this study, we will employ multiple logistic regression analysis to develop a predictive model for early childhood myocarditis. This model will assess the patient’s condition at onset and provide the probability of a myocarditis diagnosis. Model performance will be evaluated for accuracy and calibration, and the results will be presented through receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and calibration plots. Clinical decision curve analysis, in conjunction with ROC curve analysis, will be employed to determine the optimal cut-off value and calculate the net clinical benefit value for assessing clinical effectiveness. Finally, internal model validation will be conducted using bootstrapping.

Ethics and dissemination

Approval from the Clinical Research Ethics Committee of The Third Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University has been obtained. The research findings will be disseminated through presentations at scientific conferences and publication in peer-reviewed journals.

Diagnostic accuracy of endocytoscopy via artificial intelligence in colorectal lesions: A systematic review and meta‑analysis

by Hangbin Zhang, Xinyu Yang, Ye Tao, Xinyi Zhang, Xuan Huang

Background

Endocytoscopy (EC) is a nuclei and micro-vessels visualization in real-time and can facilitate "optical biopsy" and "virtual histology" of colorectal lesions. This study aimed to investigate the significance of employing artificial intelligence (AI) in the field of endoscopy, specifically in diagnosing colorectal lesions. The research was conducted under the supervision of experienced professionals and trainees.

Methods

EMBASE, PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) database, and other potential databases were surveyed for articles related to the EC with AI published before September 2023. RevMan (5.40), Stata (14.0), and R software (4.1.0) were used for statistical assessment. Studies that measured the accuracy of EC using AI for colorectal lesions were included. Two authors independently assessed the selected studies and their extracted data. This included information such as the country, literature, total study population, study design, characteristics of the fundamental study and control groups, sensitivity, number of samples, assay methodology, specificity, true positives or negatives, and false positives or negatives. The diagnostic accuracy of EC by AI was determined by a bivariate random-effects model, avoiding a high heterogeneity effect. The ANOVA model was employed to determine the more effective approach.

Results

A total of 223 studies were reviewed; 8 articles were selected that included 2984 patients (4241 lesions) for systematic review and meta-analysis. AI assessed 4069 lesions; experts diagnosed 3165 and 5014 by trainees. AI demonstrated high accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity levels in detecting colorectal lesions, with values of 0.93 (95% CI: 0.90, 0.95) and 0.94 (95% CI: 0.73, 0.99). Expert diagnosis was 0.90 (95% CI: 0.85, 0.94), 0.87 (95% CI: 0.78, 0.93), and trainee diagnosis was 0.74 (95% CI: 0.67, 0.79), 0.72 (95% CI: 0.62, 0.80). With the EC by AI, the AUC from SROC was 0.95 (95% CI: 0.93, 0.97), therefore classified as excellent category, expert showed 0.95 (95% CI: 0.93, 0.97), and the trainee had 0.79 (95% CI: 0.75, 0.82). The superior index from the ANOVA model was 4.00 (1.15,5.00), 2.00 (1.15,5.00), and 0.20 (0.20,0.20), respectively. The examiners conducted meta-regression and subgroup analyses to evaluate the presence of heterogeneity. The findings of these investigations suggest that the utilization of NBI technology was correlated with variability in sensitivity and specificity. There was a lack of solid evidence indicating the presence of publishing bias.

Conclusions

The present findings indicate that using AI in EC can potentially enhance the efficiency of diagnosing colorectal abnormalities. As a valuable instrument, it can enhance prognostic outcomes in ordinary EC procedures, exhibiting superior diagnostic accuracy compared to trainee-level endoscopists and demonstrating comparability to expert endoscopists. The research is subject to certain constraints, namely a limited number of clinical investigations and variations in the methodologies used for identification. Consequently, it is imperative to conduct comprehensive and extensive research to enhance the precision of diagnostic procedures.

Metabolic dysfunction‐associated fatty liver disease in the elderly with diabetic foot ulcers: A longitudinal cohort study

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the association between metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) and ulcer recurrence risk in patients with diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) through an ambispective longitudinal cohort. From December 2013 to December 2022, a total of 482 inpatients with DFUs (PEDIS grade 3 and above with a severe infection) were eligible for inclusion in this study. This was an ambispective longitudinal cohort study. All participants were followed up every 6 months for 9 years with a median of 36 months. According to whether having MAFLD or not, all subjects were placed into two groups: non-MAFLD (n = 351) and MAFLD (n = 131). The association between MAFLD and ulcer recurrence in patients with DFUs was then evaluated through multivariate Cox regression analysis, stratified analyses and Kaplan–Meier survival analysis. Throughout the follow-up period, out of 482 subjects with DFUs, 68 had ulcer recurrence (14.1%). Three Cox regression models were established for data analyses. In the model I (unadjusted), MAFLD was significantly associated with the ulcer recurrence rate in patients with DFUs (HR = 1.79; 95% CI = 1.097–2.92; p = 0.02). Model II (adjusted model I with gender and age) (HR = 1.781; 95% CI = 1.09–2.912; p = 0.021) and model III (adjusted model II with CVD, duration of diabetes and Cr.) (HR = 1.743; 95% CI = 1.065–2.855; p = 0.027) also showed that MAFLD was significantly related to the ulcer recurrence risk in patients with DFUs, respectively. Stratified analysis indicated that subjects aged ≥60 had a greater risk of ulcer recurrence in MAFLD than in non-MAFLD (HR = 2.31; 95% CI = 1.268–4.206; p = 0.006). Kaplan–Meier survival curve analysis showed that ulcer recurrence rate had a significant association with MAFLD (log-rank, p = 0.018). This study indicated a close association between ulcer recurrence risk and MAFLD in patients with DFUs, especially in the elderly (aged ≥60). Therefore, special attention should be paid to the elderly with both DFUs and MAFLD because they have a higher ulcer recurrence rate than other general populations in routine clinical practice.

Physiological changes of microalga <i>Dunaliella parva</i> under the treatment of PEG, CaCl<sub>2</sub>

by Qiman Zou, Limei Huang, Jinghui Gu, Bingbing Pang, Changhua Shang

Carotenoids are antioxidants, which reduce various chronic diseases of human, and have many industrial applications. The halophilic Dunaliella parva (D. parva) is rich in carotenoids. The compounds CaCl2 and PEG are the popular metabolic enhancers. To further enhance carotenogenesis, D. parva was treated with two compounds polyethylene glycol (PEG) and CaCl2. Application of CaCl2 and PEG enhanced the carotenoids contents and the antioxidant activities of carotenoids compared to control group (no treatment of CaCl2 or PEG). The highest carotenoids contents were obtained by treating D. parva with 40 ppm CaCl2 (3.11 mg/g dry weight, DW) and 80 ppm PEG (2.78 mg/g DW) compared with control group (1.96 mg/g DW). When D. parva was treated with 40 ppm CaCl2 and 80 ppm PEG, protein contents reached the highest values (90.28 mg/g DW and 89.57 mg/g DW) compared to that of control group (73.42 mg/g DW). The antioxidant activities of carotenoids samples were determined. Generally, the antioxidant activities of carotenoids from D. parva treated with PEG and CaCl2 were superior to that of control group. The antioxidant activities of carotenoids mainly contained reducing power, hydroxyl radical scavenging activity and superoxide radical scavenging activity. The reducing powers of carotenoids extracts from 20 ppm CaCl2 group (2.07%/mg carotenoids) and 120 ppm PEG group (1.59%/mg carotenoids) were significantly higher than that of control group (2 group (70.33%/mg carotenoids) and 80 ppm PEG group (65.94%/mg carotenoids) were significantly higher than that of control group (D. parva.

Non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels as a risk factor for short-term mortality in elderly Chinese: a large-scale, population-based cohort study

Por: Xiao · W. · Liu · S. · Huang · Z. · Jin · D. · Yang · Y. · Li · F. · Duan · J. · Wang · J. · Li · Y. · Deng · P. · Wang · W. · Meng · C. · Wu · J. · Cai · J. · Li · Y. · Hong · Y.
Objectives

To explore the association between non-high-density lipoprotein (non-HDL) and mortality risk, both short-term and long-term, in Chinese people.

Design

A prospective cohort study.

Setting

The National Basic Public Health Service (BPHS) in China.

Participants

Including 621 164 elderly individuals around Hunan Province who underwent healthcare management receiving check-ups in China BPHS from 2010 to 2020. Exclusion criteria: (1) missing information on gender; (2) missing records of lipid screening; (3) missing information on key covariates; and (4) missing records of comorbidities (cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes, cancer.)

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The study’s primary endpoint was all-cause and cause-specific mortality, sourced from Hunan’s CDC(Center for Disease Control and Prevention)-operated National Mortality Surveillance System, tracking participants until 24 February 2021.

Results

26 758 (4.3%) deaths were recorded, with a median follow-up of 0.83 years. Association between non-HDL and mortality was non-linear after multivariable adjustment, with the optimum concentration (OC) being 3.29 and 4.85 mmol/L. Compared with OC, the risk increased by 1.12-fold for non-HDL for non-HDL : 1.10 (1.06 to 1.32) and HR for non-HDL ≥4.85: 1.07 (1.01 to 1.14)). However, cancer mortality risk was significantly increased only for non-HDL

Conclusions

Non-HDL was non-linearly associated with the risk of mortality, and non-optimal concentrations of non-HDL significantly increased short-term mortality in elderly Chinese, which needs more attention for cardiovascular disease prevention.

Perspectives and thoughts of pregnant women and new mothers living with HIV receiving peer support: A mixed studies systematic review

Abstract

Aim

The aim of this study was to systematically consolidate evidence on perspectives and thoughts of women living with HIV regarding the peer support they have encountered during pregnancy and after childbirth.

Design

Mixed studies systematic review.

Data Sources

PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Scopus and ProQuest were sourced from 1981 to January 2022.

Methods

A convergent qualitative synthesis approach was used to analyse the data. Quality appraisal was performed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool.

Results

A total of 12 studies were included, involving 1596 pregnant women and 1856 new mothers living with HIV. An overarching theme, ‘From One Mother to Another: The Supportive Journey of Pregnant Women and New Mothers Living with HIV’, and two themes were identified: (1) Emotional support buddies and extended networks and (2) Link bridge to healthcare support and self-empowerment.

Conclusion

Peer support played an indispensable role in the lives of women living with HIV and served as a complementary support system to professional and family support.

Impact

What problem did the study address? Pregnant women and new mothers living with HIV face preconceived stigma and discrimination.

What were the main findings? Peer support was perceived to be beneficial in enhancing emotional support among women living with HIV and was well-accepted by them.

Where and on whom will the research have an impact? Healthcare providers and community social workers could develop or enhance peer support educational programmes tailored to pregnant women and new mothers living with HIV. Policymakers and administrators can leverage public awareness, advocacy and political will to formulate and implement policies and campaigns aimed at fostering awareness and receptivity towards peer support interventions.

Reporting Method

Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA).

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

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