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Ayer — Octubre 2nd 2025Tus fuentes RSS

Glasgow Coma Scale Practice Among Emergency Nurses in China: A Multicenter Cross‐Sectional Study

ABSTRACT

Aim

To analyse current Glasgow Coma Scale practice among emergency nurses in China and identify factors influencing assessment quality.

Design

A quantitative, multicenter cross-sectional design.

Methods

A convenience sample of 1740 emergency nurses from secondary and tertiary hospitals across 21 provinces completed a validated structured questionnaire between March and April 2025. Participants had at least 6 months of emergency nursing experience. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and multiple logistic regression to examine factors influencing correct Glasgow Coma Scale application.

Results

Participants had a mean age of 29.8 years (SD = 6.2). Only 52.5% of nurses demonstrated correct Glasgow Coma Scale application despite 97.0% having theoretical knowledge of scoring criteria. While 56.8% had received Glasgow Coma Scale training, significant standardisation deficiencies emerged. Notably, 41.8% of departments lacked operational guidelines, and 53.7% of nurses experienced scoring disagreements with colleagues. Clinical utilisation varied substantially by patient population: traumatic brain injury (97.8%), neurological diseases (96.9%), and systemic critical illness (85.8%). Multivariate analysis identified six significant factors influencing correct application: standardised training (OR = 2.252, 95% CI: 1.789–2.825), manageable workload ≤ 4 patients/shift (OR = 1.652, 95% CI: 1.327–2.057), departmental guidelines (OR = 1.523, 95% CI: 1.233–1.881), extensive work experience ≥ 9 years (OR = 1.534, 95% CI: 1.182–1.992), while multidisciplinary collaboration issues (OR = 0.559, 95% CI: 0.439–0.712) and special patient experience (OR = 0.520, 95% CI: 0.406–0.666) were associated with reduced accuracy.

Conclusion

Substantial standardisation challenges exist in Glasgow Coma Scale practice among Chinese emergency nurses, characterised by significant gaps between theoretical knowledge and clinical application. Major barriers include insufficient standardised guidelines, inconsistent training approaches, and inadequate interdisciplinary collaboration.

Impact

Healthcare administrators should develop national standardised guidelines, implement simulation-based training programs, optimise emergency workflows, and integrate alternative assessment tools to enhance consciousness assessment accuracy and improve patient safety.

Reporting Method

STROBE statement adherence.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

Exploring Subjective Cognitive Decline and Its Related Factors Among Young‐Old Adults: A Perspective on Social Network Types

ABSTRACT

Aims

To identify distinct social network types among young-old adults based on the characteristics of social network structure and to explore the relationship between different types, socio-demographic characteristics and subjective cognitive decline.

Design

A cross-sectional study was conducted from July 2022 to October 2023.

Methods

A total of 652 young-old adults aged 60–74 years completed the sociodemographic questionnaire, the subjective cognitive decline questionnaire-9 and the self-designed egocentric social network questionnaire. The types of social networks were identified by latent profile analysis. Univariate analysis and binary logistic regression were used to analyse the influencing factors of subjective cognitive decline.

Results

The incidence of subjective cognitive decline was 38%. Social networks of young-old adults tended to be large, predominantly family-centred and characterised by strong contact strength, high density and significant demographic heterogeneity among network members. Four social network types were identified: diverse-moderate, family-dense, family-strong and friend-loose. Young-old adults embedded in the family-dense and family-strong types were more likely to develop subjective cognitive decline than those in the diverse-moderate type. Additionally, age, education level, previous occupation, daily sleep duration and exercise were related to the incidence of subjective cognitive decline.

Conclusions

The findings highlight the relatively high incidence of subjective cognitive decline in young-old adults that is notably influenced by the type of social network they are embedded in. More attention needs to be paid to identifying and supporting young-old adults at high risk of subjective cognitive decline, especially to promote their social integration and friend network building, to improve their subjective cognitive function.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

The findings emphasise the importance of considering the structure and composition of social networks when addressing subjective cognitive decline among young-old adults. A diversified social network incorporating both familial and friendship ties may provide enhanced cognitive protection. Therefore, interventions targeting subjective cognitive decline should promote the expansion of friendship-based relationships and foster the development of more heterogeneous and multi-source networks.

Reporting Method

STROBE checklist.

Patient or Public Contribution

Not applicable.

Perceptions of Recurrence Risk Among Patients With Atrial Fibrillation: A Qualitative Study

ABSTRACT

Aims

The study aims to investigate patients' perceptions of recurrence risk associated with atrial fibrillation, with the goal of establishing a theoretical foundation for developing future measurement scale and intervention strategies.

Design

A qualitative interview study.

Methods

Seventeen patients diagnosed with atrial fibrillation at a Grade-A tertiary hospital participated in semi-structured, in-depth interviews conducted between October and December 2024. Participants were selected via purposive sampling. The data were analysed employing thematic analysis in accordance with Colaizzi's method. The study adhered to the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research checklist.

Results

The perceptions of recurrence risk among patients with atrial fibrillation can be summarised into five themes: (1) perceived likelihood of recurrence, (2) perceived severity of recurrence, (3) perceived triggers of recurrence, (4) emotional reaction to recurrence, and (5) efficacy perception of managing recurrence risk.

Conclusion

Perceptions of recurrence risk among patients with atrial fibrillation are diverse and often underestimated due to limited knowledge and subjective symptom interpretation, affecting health behaviours. Understanding patients' subjective appraisals, emotions, and perceived efficacy is essential. Validated assessment tools and tailored risk communication may enhance self-management and support targeted interventions.

Impact

This study provides critical insights into how atrial fibrillation patients perceive their risk of recurrence. It also provides a theoretical foundation for creating validated assessment tools and tailoring individualised health education and intervention programmes.

Patient Contribution

Patients were involved in the study design, data collection, and interpretation of findings. Their contributions included providing feedback on the initial interview guide to ensure relevance and clarity, participating in in-depth interviews to share their lived experiences with atrial fibrillation recurrence, and offering reflections on key themes emerging from the data.

The Mediating Role of Death Coping Between Moral Resilience and Vicarious Posttraumatic Growth Among ICU Nurses

ABSTRACT

Aim

This study aimed to examine the level of vicarious posttraumatic growth among intensive care unit nurses in China and explore the mediating role of death coping ability in the relationship between moral resilience and vicarious posttraumatic growth.

Study Design

A multicentre, cross-sectional study was conducted in accordance with the STROBE guidelines.

Methods

Between January and March 2025, a questionnaire survey was conducted among 666 intensive care unit nurses from nine tertiary Grade A hospitals across five provinces in China. Participants completed three standardised instruments: the Rushton Moral Resilience Scale, the Coping with Death Scale–Short Version, and the Vicarious Posttraumatic Growth Inventory. We used IBM SPSS 27.0 for descriptive statistics, univariate analyses, and correlation analyses, and employed AMOS 27.0 to perform structural equation modelling for testing mediation effects.

Results

Intensive care unit nurses demonstrated a moderate level of vicarious posttraumatic growth. Moral resilience was positively associated with both death coping ability and vicarious posttraumatic growth. Death coping ability was found to play a partial mediating role in the relationship between moral resilience and vicarious posttraumatic growth.

Conclusion

Moral resilience and death coping ability are key factors associated with vicarious posttraumatic growth among intensive care unit nurses. Nurses with stronger moral resilience are more likely to cope constructively with death-related stress, which may support psychological growth in trauma-intensive environments.

Impact

This study highlights the need to enhance intensive care unit nurses' moral and emotional capacities through ethics education, emotional coping training, and institutional support strategies. Strengthening these competencies may foster professional development and mental wellbeing in critical care settings.

Targeting vascular dementia: Molecular docking and dynamics of natural ligands against neuroprotective proteins

by Zhizhong Wang, Sen Xu, Ailong Lin, Chunxian Wei, Zhiyong Li, Yingchun Chen, Bizhou Bie, Ling Liu

Vascular dementia (VaD), a neurodegenerative disease driven by vascular pathology, requires multi-targeted therapeutic strategies. This study employs an integrated in silico approach to evaluate the neuroprotective potential of natural ligands against key proteins implicated in VaD pathogenesis. Using molecular docking and normal mode analysis (NMA), four natural compounds (Galangin, Resveratrol, Curcumin, and Licocumarone) were assessed for their binding affinity and structural influence on six target proteins: APLP1, APOE, CLDN5, SOD1, MMP9, and MTHFR. Docking analysis revealed that galangin exhibited the highest binding affinity to APLP1 (−8.5 kcal/mol), resveratrol to MTHFR (−8.1 kcal/mol), and curcumin showed dual efficacy toward APOE (−7.2 kcal/mol) and MMP9 (−8.0 kcal/mol). Licocumarone demonstrated notable stabilization of CLDN5 and SOD1. The NMA results indicated ligand-induced stabilization of protein cores and enhanced flexibility in loop regions, which may impact amyloid aggregation, oxidative stress, and blood-brain barrier integrity. Pathway enrichment using the KEGG and Reactome databases identified significant involvement of the IL-17 and TNF signaling pathways, along with leukocyte transendothelial migration, linking inflammation with vascular dysfunction. APOE emerged as a central node within the protein-protein interaction network, highlighting its regulatory importance. This study highlights the therapeutic relevance of natural ligands as cost-effective modulators of multiple VaD-associated pathways. The combined use of molecular docking, protein dynamics, and enrichment analyses provides a comprehensive computational framework for early-stage drug discovery. These findings warrant further experimental validation to advance the development of targeted, mechanism-driven interventions for vascular dementia.

Patients sense of gain experience and its influencing factors: a cross-sectional study in Foshan, China

Por: Xia · P. · Liang · B. · Zeng · Q. · Wang · L. · Zhai · L. · Li · M. · Chen · L. · Yang · H. · He · H. · Xu · X. · Gong · W.
Objectives

Patients’ sense of gain experience (PSGE) is the comprehensive feeling throughout the treatment process, which is a critical benchmark for evaluating comprehensive medical and health system reform in China. This study aims to assess the current status of PSGE in public hospitals and identify important associated factors, providing evidence-based recommendations for improving healthcare services.

Design

This was a cross-sectional study conducted from October to November 2023.

Setting

A total of 14 public hospitals in Foshan, Guangdong Province, China.

Participants

There were 3223 responses, including 1592 from outpatients and 1631 from inpatients.

Primary outcome measure

PSGE was assessed across five domains: time accessibility, service accessibility, cost affordability, patient participation and efficacy predictability. Participants were also asked to provide an overall rating of the PSGE.

Results

The overall score for PSGE was 4.47±0.53 (mean±SD), with service accessibility receiving the highest score (4.68±0.50) and affordability the lowest (4.17±0.86). Secondary hospitals scored an overall PSGE of 4.55±0.50, while tertiary hospitals scored 4.42±0.54. Key factors associated with PSGE were overall satisfaction (β=0.164, p

Conclusions

This study found that patients reported a positive PSGE with service accessibility but reported a less positive PSGE with cost affordability. A tier-based disparity was evident, with secondary hospitals outperforming tertiary hospitals in overall PSGE outcome. Stronger PSGE was positively associated with higher scores in overall satisfaction, treatment satisfaction, satisfaction with medical reforms, patient loyalty and hospital reputation. Demographic and institutional factors, such as hospital level, patient type and household registration, were associated with the PSGE. Efforts can be focused on enhancing clinicians’ willingness and competence in discussing treatment costs during clinical encounters. It is essential for policymakers to address disparities in healthcare experiences among patient groups across hospital tiers to advance equitable, patient-centred systems.

Analysis of the analgesic mechanism of TENS-WAA in colonoscopy using the EEG-fNIRS system: a study protocol for a randomised controlled trial

Por: Wang · H. · Huang · X. · Xu · L. · Guo · S. · Gong · C. · Mengcheng · C. · Wang · W. · Wang · H. · Fang · F.
Introduction

Colonoscopy is an essential procedure for the early diagnosis of colorectal conditions; however, over 60% of patients undergoing non-sedated colonoscopy report moderate to severe pain. This study aims to investigate the central analgesic mechanisms of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation based on wrist-ankle acupuncture theory (TENS-WAA). A multimodal approach combining electroencephalography (EEG) and functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) will be employed to assess pain-related brain activity, with artificial intelligence applied to model the relationship between objective neurophysiological signals and subjective pain experience.

Methods

This is a single-centre, randomised, double-blind, controlled trial involving 60 patients undergoing colonoscopy without anaesthesia. Participants will be randomly allocated (1:1) to either an electrical stimulation group receiving TENS-WAA or a sham stimulation group. EEG and fNIRS data will be acquired before, during and after the procedure. The primary outcome is the analysis of EEG-fNIRS signals to characterise cerebral responses associated with pain modulation. Secondary outcomes include patient-reported pain using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), total colonoscopy duration and the correlation between EEG-fNIRS indicators and VAS scores. A deep learning framework will be used to enhance pain prediction accuracy.

Ethics and dissemination

This study has received ethical approval from the Ethics Committee of Changhai Hospital, Shanghai (approval reference CHEC2025-006), and has been registered at ClinicalTrials.gov. Written informed consent will be obtained from all participants. Findings will be disseminated in peer-reviewed academic journals and at relevant scientific conferences, regardless of outcome, contributing to evidence-based, non-pharmacological pain management strategies.

Trial registration number

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT06813703.

Clinical outcomes of levosimendan administration in veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: a meta-analysis

Por: Zhao · G.-m. · Zhao · G.-m. · Zhang · H. · Chen · W. · Zhou · J.-X. · Li · H.-l.
Objectives

To evaluate the effectiveness of levosimendan in promoting weaning from veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) in patients with refractory cardiogenic shock through a meta-analysis of clinical trials.

Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Data sources

PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library and Web of Science were systematically searched from inception to January 2025.

Eligibility criteria

Studies were included if they were clinical trials comparing outcomes between patients receiving levosimendan and those not receiving it during VA-ECMO support. Eligible studies reported on at least one of the predefined outcomes.

Data extraction and synthesis

Two independent reviewers extracted data and assessed study quality. The primary outcome was successful VA-ECMO weaning. Secondary outcomes included 30-day mortality, in-hospital mortality, duration of ECMO support and length of stay in the intensive care unit (ICU). A random-effects model was used to synthesise data and estimate pooled effect sizes, with heterogeneity assessed using the I² statistic.

Results

Involving 2083 patients across 16 studies, levosimendan significantly improved VA-ECMO weaning success (OR=2.44, 95% CI: 1.72 to 3.48; p2=57%) compared with the control group. Additionally, it notably reduced 30-day mortality (OR=0.48, 95% CI: 0.29 to 0.81; p=0.006; I2=56%) and in-hospital mortality (OR=0.47, 95% CI: 0.26 to 0.88; p=0.02; I2=70%). Noteworthy, however, is the association of levosimendan with prolonged VA-ECMO support (days; n=1314; weighted mean difference (WMD): 2.86, 95% CI: 1.73 to 4.00; p2=60%) and extended ICU stay (days; n=629; WMD: 5.69, 95% CI: 2.19 to 9.20; p=0.001; I2=61%).

Conclusions

Levosimendan improves VA-ECMO weaning success and reduces mortality. Further high-quality randomised controlled trials (RCTs) are required to confirm its clinical benefits in VA-ECMO patients. While the findings consolidate existing evidence favouring levosimendan, they also highlight residual heterogeneity and moderate-to-high risk of bias in several included studies. Therefore, future investigations, particularly well-powered RCTs with robust methodology, may help further delineate its role in specific patient populations.

Effect of liposomal bupivacaine combined with bupivacaine hydrochloride for transversus thoracic muscle plane block and pectoral nerves block in modified radical mastectomy for breast cancer: protocol for a randomised controlled trial

Por: Zhou · J. · Zhou · R. · Tang · S.-H. · Chen · Z. · Zhang · J. · Yang · D.
Introduction

The incidence of acute pain subsequent to modified radical mastectomy (MRM) for breast cancer approximates 40%, with more than half of these cases evolving into chronic pain. Currently, the commonly employed analgesic schemes in clinical practice still have inadequacies. Liposomal bupivacaine (LB) is bupivacaine encapsulated in liposomes, and it is reported that its duration of action can extend up to 72 hours. This study will investigate the analgesic efficacy of LB in combination with bupivacaine hydrochloride (BHCl) for transversus thoracic muscle plane (TTP) block and pectoral nerves (PECS) block after MRM for breast cancer.

Methods and analysis

In this prospective, randomised, controlled trial, we will enrol 80 female patients aged 30 to 65 years who are scheduled to undergo MRM under general anaesthesia in combination with nerve block. They will be randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to the LB+BHCl group (Group A) and the BHCl group (Group B). All patients will undergo ultrasound-guided TTP+PECS block prior to surgery. The primary outcomes are the cumulative pain visual analogue scale (VAS) scores from 6 to 72 hours post-surgery and the quality of recovery, assessed using the QoR-40 score at 72 hours post-surgery. The secondary outcomes include the time to first analgesic rescue, the consumption of analgesic drugs within 72 hours postoperatively, the occurrence of adverse events and the VAS scores at 6 and 12 months postoperatively.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval was obtained from the Ethics Committee of the Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University (2024 Ke Lun Shen (2024-07-01)). All patients will provide written informed consent. The results of this study will be published in a peer-reviewed journal.

Trial registration number

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2400089933).

Comparison of ultrasound-guided continuous intertransverse process block and continuous erector spinae plane block for postoperative analgesia after uniportal video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery: protocol for a double-blind, prospective, randomised contr

Por: Lei · C. · Liu · D. · Li · Q. · Chen · Y. · Chen · H. · Zhong · H. · Wang · Y.
Introduction

Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) has become the predominant method for lung cancer diagnosis and resection, with over 80% adoption in relevant surgeries. With technological advancements, uniportal VATS is now widely employed. However, it still poses a significant risk of moderate to severe acute postoperative pain, potentially leading to chronic post-thoracotomy pain syndrome (PTPS). Therefore, effective postoperative analgesia is crucial. Regional block techniques have gradually gained wide attention. Specifically, paravertebral block (PVB) has been considered the ‘gold standard’ for thoracic analgesia, but its application involves risks due to the challenging anatomy. The erector spinae plane block (ESPB) and intertransverse process block (ITPB) have emerged as alternatives. ESPB showed non-inferiority to PVB in pain management and recovery quality. However, the mechanism of ESPB and its consistency in providing analgesia are not fully understood. ITPB, targeting the ‘posterior space of the superior costotransverse ligament’, offers theoretical advantages in drug diffusion due to its closer proximity to the paravertebral space than ESPB. Despite these advancements, there is a lack of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the comparative efficacy of continuous ESPB and ITPB. This study aims to address these gaps by comparing the analgesic effects and recovery quality of continuous ESPB and ITPB in patients undergoing single-port VATS.

Methods and analysis

A double-blind RCT will be conducted, enrolling 96 patients electively undergoing single-port thoracoscopic surgery, randomly assigned to either the experimental group (ITPB group) or the control group (ESPB group). After routine surgery, block intervention and continuous pump catheterisation will be performed. The primary assessment will be the numeric rating scale (NRS) scores at 24 hours. Secondary outcomes include NRS at other time points, block effectiveness, Quality of Recovery-15 scores and chronic pain-related scores. Evaluations will be conducted at 0, 2, 6, 12, 24 and 48 hours. Additional assessment indicators include time to first self-administration of pulse analgesia pump, number of self-administrations within 48 hours, use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and opioids postoperatively, Comprehensive Complication Index (CCI) score, length of hospital stay, incidence of adverse events and complications, patient satisfaction score and assessment of PTPS incidence at 3 months postoperatively using the Brief Pain Inventory short form and the Short-Form McGill Pain Questionnaire.

Ethics and dissemination

The study was reviewed and approved by the Medical Ethics Committee of the Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University (No. K44-1, 2024). The results of the study will be submitted for publication in a peer-reviewed journal with online accessibility.

Trial registration number

ChiCTR2400082856.

Protocol for an observational cohort study integrating real-world data and microsimulation to assess imaging surveillance strategies in stage I-IIIA NSCLC patients in OneFlorida+

Por: Braithwaite · D. · Karanth · S. D. · Bian · J. · Meza · R. · Jeon · J. · Tammemagi · M. · Wheeler · M. · Cao · P. · Rackauskas · M. · Shrestha · P. · Yoon · H.-S. · Borondy Kitts · A. · Verma · H. · Blair · M. C. · Chen · A. · Das · D. · Lou · X. · Wu · Y. · Han · S. · Hochhegger · B. · Guo · Y
Introduction

Although lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer deaths in the US, recent advances in early detection and treatment have led to improvements in survival. However, there is a considerable risk of recurrence or second primary lung cancer (SPLC) following curative-intent treatment in patients with early-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Professional societies recommend routine surveillance with CT to optimise the detection of potential recurrence and SPLC at a localised stage. However, no definitive evidence demonstrates the effect of imaging surveillance on survival in patients with NSCLC. To close these research gaps, the Advancing Precision Lung Cancer Surveillance and Outcomes in Diverse Populations (PLuS2) study will leverage real-world electronic health records (EHRs) data to evaluate surveillance outcomes among patients with and without guideline-adherent surveillance. The overarching goal of the PLuS2 study is to assess the long-term effectiveness of surveillance strategies in real-world settings.

Methods and analysis

PLuS2 is an observational study designed to assemble a cohort of patients with incident pathologically confirmed stage I/II/IIIA NSCLC who have completed curative-intent therapy. Patients undergoing imaging surveillance will be followed from 2012 to 2026 by linking EHRs with tumour registry data in the OneFlorida+ Clinical Research Consortium. Data will be consolidated into a unified repository to achieve three primary aims: (1) Examine the utilisation and determinants of CT imaging surveillance by race/ethnicity and socioeconomic status, (2) Compare clinical endpoints, including recurrence, SPLCs and survival of patients who undergo semiannual versus annual CT imaging and (3) Use the observational data in conjunction with validated microsimulation models to simulate imaging surveillance outcomes within the US population. To our knowledge, this study represents the first attempt to integrate real-world data and microsimulation models to assess the long-term impact and effectiveness of imaging surveillance strategies.

Ethics and dissemination

This study involves human participants and was approved by the University of Florida Institutional Review Board (IRB), University of Florida IRB 01, under approval number IRB202300782. The results will be disseminated through publications and presentations at national and international conferences. Safety considerations encompass ensuring the confidentiality of patient information. All disseminated data will be de-identified and summarised.

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Impacts of resistance training combined with vibration training on the IGF-1/PI3K/AKT/FOXO3 axis and clinical outcomes in patients with sarcopenia: A protocol for a randomized controlled trial

by Haoyang Zhou, Jinfeng Yang, Na Li, Jinying Li, Jianxin Ran, Yan Zheng, Yifan Long, Fang Cheng, Yuanpeng Liao

Background

Sarcopenia is an age-associated disorder characterized by a progressive decline in skeletal muscle mass, strength, and physical function. The condition is linked to low levels of anabolic hormones such as insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), with its downstream phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase (PI3K)/ protein kinase B (AKT)/ forkhead box protein O3 (FOXO3) signaling pathway. There is growing evidence that resistance training (RT) or vibration training (VT) could improve physical functioning in individuals with sarcopenia. However, the related physiological influence of exercise on sarcopenia remains elusive.

Method

This prospective randomized controlled trial will be conducted among 96 participants, aged between 65 and 80 years. In participants, sarcopenia diagnosis will be confirmed based on the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia criteria, and participants will be randomized into either control, RT, VT, or RVT (combined RT and VT) groups. The intervention will last 12 weeks, with assessments performed at baseline, 12 weeks (after intervention), and 24 weeks (follow-up). The primary outcomes will include skeletal muscle mass, handgrip strength, and gait speed. Secondary outcomes comprise IGF-1 concentrations, PI3K/AKT and FOXO3 protein activity, quality of life, and timed-up-and-go test performance assessments.

Discussion

This clinical study aims to elucidate the potential modulation of molecular mechanisms in vivo for combined RT and VT in sarcopenia patients and to identify the effects of the intervention on physical function.

Trial registration

ChiCTR, ChiCTR2400083643. Registered on April 29, 2024.

Single-arm, open-label, multicentre phase 1b/2 study to evaluate the safety and efficacy of fruquintinib combined with sintilimab and CAPEOX as a first-line treatment for advanced gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma (FUNCTION study): a stu

Por: Chen · B. · Zhao · J. · Lv · H. · Xu · W. · Wang · J. · Nie · C. · He · Y. · Zhang · B. · Huang · J. · Liu · Y. · Ma · F. · Zhang · H. · Guo · L. · Liu · Y. · Li · P. · Chen · X. · Chen · X.
Introduction

Systemic therapies for advanced gastric cancer (GC), including chemotherapy, targeted therapy and immunotherapy, have evolved significantly in the past few years. The combination of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and chemotherapy has become the standard first-line (1L) treatment for advanced gastric or gastro-oesophageal junction (G/GEJ) cancer, although there remains a need for improvement in efficacy. Fruquintinib, an oral and highly selective vascular endothelial growth factor receptor inhibitor, has shown a synergistic antitumour effect when paired with ICI or chemotherapy. Moreover, it has demonstrated a tolerable safety profile and high potential for synergy with chemotherapy or immunotherapy, suggesting that a combination of fruquintinib, sintilimab and oxaliplatin+capecitabine (CAPEOX) can be a promising treatment for locally advanced G/GEJ cancer. This phase 1b/2 study aims to investigate the safety and efficacy of the combination of fruquintinib, sintilimab and CAPEOX regimen as a 1L combination therapy for unresectable advanced or metastatic G/GEJ cancer.

Methods and analysis

The FUNCTION trial (NCT06329973) is a single-arm, prospective, multicentre, phase Ib/II clinical trial that will consist of a dose escalation phase and an expansion phase. The study is planned to be conducted at 16 public hospitals. A total of 70 participants will be enrolled, comprising nine in the dose escalation phase and 61 in the expansion phase. The dosing regimen during the dose escalation phase will include three different doses of fruquintinib (3 mg, 4 mg and 5 mg, per oral, once per day days 1–14) + sintilimab, 200 mg, intravenous, day 1 +oxaliplatin 130 mg/m2, day 1, intravenous, + capecitabine 800 mg/m2, per oral, twice daily, days 1–14, every 21 days. The recommended phase 2 dose (RP2D) and maximum tolerated dose will be determined in the escalation phase, and the RP2D will be used in the expansion phase. The primary endpoints will be the maximum tolerated dose and objective response rate; the secondary endpoints will include OS, progression-free survival, disease control rate, duration of response, surgical conversion rate and adverse events and identification of molecular biomarkers for efficacy. The results from this study will provide evidence for expanding the clinical applications of fruquintinib plus sintilimab and CAPEOX as a 1L combination therapy in metastatic or non-resectable, locally advanced G/GEJ cancer and lay the foundation for future large-scale clinical investigations.

Ethics and dissemination

This study will be conducted in full compliance with the ICH (The International Council for Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Pharmaceuticals for Human Use, ICH) GCP (Good Clinical Practice, GCP) guidelines, the rules of the Declaration of Helsinki and ICH E2A (Clinical Safety Data Management: Definitions and Standards for Expedited Reporting) Guidelines . The study protocol has received approval from the Henan Cancer Hospital ethical committee (Approval No. 2023-237-002). Written informed consent will be obtained from all patients prior to enrolment. For patients who have the mental capacity for informed consent, their consent for participation will be sought and will not be overridden by their family members. For patients who have impaired cognition, informed consent will be sought from their legally acceptable representative. On completion of the analyses, the study findings will be disseminated locally and internationally through manuscript publications in peer-reviewed journals and conference presentations.

Trial registration

NCT06329973.

Natural history, clinical outcomes and predictors of disease course in paediatric IgA vasculitis: protocol for a multicentre prospective cohort study in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China

Por: Jiang · H.-H. · Meng · X.-Y. · Liang · Q. · Li · R.-J. · Tang · Q. · Huang · L. · Yun · X. · Shan · Q.-W. · Chen · X.-Q.
Introduction IgA vasculitis (IgAV, formerly Henoch-Schönlein purpura) is a systemic small-vessel vasculitis. The aetiology of IgAV is multifactorial, involving environmental triggers in genetically susceptible individuals. Evolving socioeconomic and environmental factors may be altering the contemporary aetiological and precipitant spectrum of IgAV. Prospective observational studies are therefore crucial for elucidating disease management, prognostic factors and long-term outcomes. Although numerous studies exist on paediatric IgAV, prospective cohort data remain limited. This multicentre prospective observational study aims to characterise the natural history, aetiological/precipitant spectrum, incidence and outcomes of gastrointestinal and renal involvement, factors influencing therapeutic efficacy and the predictive value of biomarkers for disease activity.

Methods and analysis

We will recruit 478 paediatric patients with newly diagnosed IgAV across multiple centres. Participants will undergo prospective longitudinal assessment at disease onset and at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months postdiagnosis. Standardised evaluations will include clinical manifestations, physical examinations, laboratory parameters and patient-reported outcomes. The data will be analysed statistically with SPSS software (V.27.0), adopting a significance threshold of p

Ethics and dissemination

This study has been approved by the Medical Ethics Committee of the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University (2024-K0480), the Ethics Committee of the First People’s Hospital of Yulin (YLSY-IRB-SR-2025060), the Medical Research Ethics Committee of the Liuzhou Workers’ Hospital (KY2024356) and the Ethics Committee of the Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region (No. (2025–1)003) and written informed consent was obtained from all the parents or guardians of the patients involved. It will be disseminated by publication of peer-reviewed manuscripts and presentation in abstract form at national and international scientific meetings.

Trial registration number

ChiCTR2500099716.

Impact of intraoperative explanation combined with surgical video review on anatomy learning in laparoscopic distal gastrectomy

Por: Ding · Y. · Liu · X. · Cai · Y. · Cheng · F. · Shi · L. · Wu · K.
Objective

To investigate the educational value of combining intraoperative explanations with laparoscopic surgical video reviews for teaching the local anatomy of the stomach.

Methods

Thirty resident physicians undergoing standardised training in our hospital, including undergraduate resident physicians and clinical-type postgraduates in surgery who had not participated in radical gastrectomy for gastric cancer, were selected as study subjects. They were randomly divided into an experimental group and a control group, with 15 participants in each group. The experimental group received instruction through intraoperative explanations combined with laparoscopic surgical video reviews, while the control group participated in surgery without additional instructional methods. After the teaching sessions, both groups underwent clinical practice assessments, theoretical examinations and evaluations of teaching satisfaction. The distribution of the data was assessed using the Shapiro-Wilk normality test along with Quantile-Quantile plots. Two-way analysis of variance was employed to evaluate the main effects and interaction effects of clinical practice scores across different groups and student types. Statistical power was examined through post hoc power analysis.

Results

The clinical practice assessment results, theoretical examination scores and teaching satisfaction ratings of the experimental group were significantly higher than those of the control group, with all differences reaching statistical significance (p

Conclusion

Combining intraoperative explanations with laparoscopic surgical video reviews for teaching local anatomy during distal gastrectomy is more effective than participation in surgery alone. This approach allows students to review surgical videos at their convenience, enhancing their understanding and mastery of local anatomical structures and significantly improving the quality of local anatomy education for resident physicians.

Persistent global inequality in eye injury burden: a secondary analysis of the 2021 global burden of disease study (1990-2021)

Por: Wang · Z. · Huang · J. · Fang · Y. · Li · Y. · Yan · Z. · Chen · H. · Zheng · Y. · Yao · X. · Chen · H.
Objectives

Eye injury poses a significant challenge to the global burden of blindness. Using the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) database, this study aims to comprehensively assess the latest global burden of eye injury and examine its relationship with the Socio-Demographic Index (SDI).

Design

Observational study.

Participants

Population-based data on eye injury from the GBD 2021 database, covering the period 1990–2021.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Primary outcomes included incidence, prevalence and years lived with disability (YLDs) due to eye injury. Secondary outcomes included temporal trends analysed using joinpoint regression, age-period-cohort effects, health inequality indices (Slope Index of Inequality (SII) and Concentration Index) and decomposition analysis of contributing factors.

Results

From 1990 to 2021, global eye injury incidence (in thousands) increased from 33 702.80 (95% uncertainty interval (UI): 27 271.41 to 44 086.12) to 39 996.91 cases (95% UI: 32 341.74 to 52 215.74), while age-standardised incidence rates (ASIR) declined from 622.73 to 503.26 per 100 000 population (average annual percent change (AAPC): –0.63, 95% confidence interval (CI) –0.81 to –0.46, p75 years). Health inequality between SDI regions narrowed (SII decreased from 3.10 to 2.21 per 100 000), with population growth contributing 207.93% to increased incidence.

Conclusion

The burden of eye injury exhibits distinct patterns across development levels, requiring tailored interventions: occupational safety for young adults in developing regions and fall prevention for the elderly in developed areas. Prevention strategies should align with regional economic development stages, emphasising workplace safety in industrialising regions while maintaining robust healthcare accessibility.

Evaluating Nurse Practitioners' Peri‐Operative Roles and Their Outcomes: A Prospective Observational Study in Surgical Care

ABSTRACT

Aims

To evaluate nurse practitioner (NP) roles during the peri-operative period and their association with healthcare outcomes, including length of stay (LOS), post-operative emergency department (ED) visits and 30-day readmissions.

Design

A prospective observational study.

Methods

This study, conducted at an Israeli tertiary care centre between 2022 and 2023, included 188 patients from Paediatric Orthopaedics, General Surgery and Breast and Stoma Services. Data on patient demographics, clinical details and outcomes, including LOS, post-operative ED visits and 30-day readmissions, were extracted from medical records. NPs documented interventions they performed across the pre-operative, in-hospital and post-hospital phases. Associations between NP interventions and patient outcomes were analysed using multivariate regression models.

Results

NPs performed an average of 6.7 interventions per patient across the peri-operative phases. A moderate-to-high number of interventions performed during the pre-operative phase was significantly associated with a shorter LOS. Performing a moderate-to-high number of interventions during the post-hospital phase was correlated with fewer ED visits and lower rates of 30-day readmission.

Conclusions

Interventions performed by NPs during the pre-operative and post-hospital phases were significantly linked to better patient outcomes, notably shorter hospitalizations and fewer post-discharge complications.

Implications

Recognising the role of NPs in peri-operative care may guide healthcare systems in optimising post-surgical care pathways, ultimately minimising preventable emergency visits, reducing hospital LOS and lowering readmission rates.

Impact

This study underscores the value of NPs as integral providers in peri-operative surgical care. Their involvement in pre-operative preparation and post-discharge coordination contributes meaningfully to patient recovery trajectories. The findings support expanding their role within surgical teams to enhance care continuity and promote better recovery outcomes.

Reporting Method

The EQUATOR guidelines were used with the STROBE checklist for reporting this study.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

The Mediation of AI Trust on AI Uncertainties and AI Competence Among Nurses: A Cross‐Sectional Study

ABSTRACT

Aim

This study aimed to validate the mediating role of nurses' AI trust in the relationship between AI uncertainties and AI competence.

Design

A cross-sectional study.

Methods

A purposive sample of 550 registered nurses with at least 1 year of clinical experience from three tertiary and two secondary hospitals in Jinan and Hangzhou, China, was used. Data were collected using structured questionnaires assessing AI uncertainty, trust and competence. Demographic data included gender, age, education level, years of clinical experience, professional title and hospital level. Mediation analysis.

Results

Most nurses were from tertiary hospitals (88.9%), held a bachelor's degree (87.6%), and had over 6 years of experience. The mediating role of AI trust between AI uncertainties and AI competence is validated. AI uncertainties affected AI trust (B = 0.39, p < 0.0001), explaining 10% of the variance. AI uncertainties and AI trust affected AI competence (B = 0.25 and 0.67, p < 0.0001), explaining 63% of the variation. AI trust's total effect was 0.51, comprising direct and indirect effects of 0.25 and 0.26, respectively.

Conclusion

Hospitals can reduce uncertainty through an AI-transparent decision-making process, providing clinical examples of AI and training nurses to use AI, thereby increasing trust. Second, AI systems should be designed to consider nurses' psychological safety needs. Hospital administrators utilise optimised AI technology training and promotional techniques to mitigate nurses' resistance to AI and enhance their positive perceptions of AI competence through trust-building mechanisms.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Impact: Enhancing nurses' AI trust can reduce uncertainty and improve their competence in clinical use. Strategies such as transparency, explainability and training programmes are crucial for improving AI implementation in healthcare.

No Patient or Public Contribution

This study focused solely on clinical nurses and did not include patients or the public.

Reporting Method

The study adhered to STROBE guidelines.

Understanding Health Literacy in Fluid Management in Individuals Receiving Haemodialysis: A Directed Qualitative Content Analysis

ABSTRACT

Aims

To describe the perspectives of individuals receiving haemodialysis regarding health literacy in fluid management.

Design

A qualitative descriptive approach using directed content analysis of interviews from an explanatory mixed methods study.

Methods

Semi-structured individual interviews were conducted from September 2020 to February 2021 with 28 individuals receiving haemodialysis who had attended a prior quantitative study. A directed qualitative content analysis approach was used to identify categories and subcategories emerging from the data.

Results

Six categories of health literacy were identified: (1) active health management, (2) engagement with healthcare providers, (3) understanding and support from healthcare providers, (4) social support, (5) health information literacy and (6) navigation of the healthcare system.

Conclusions

Based on their real-life experience, individuals receiving haemodialysis have unique health literacy needs regarding fluid management. A comprehensive understanding of these unique needs is crucial in creating person-centered interventions to address inadequate fluid restriction.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Interventions to address inadequate fluid restriction should be person-centered, considering each individual's unique health literacy needs. This involves conducting a comprehensive assessment of individuals' health literacy needs, empowering individuals to actively engage in health, engaging the entire support network and facilitating health information literacy in line with individuals' preferences.

Impact

This study offers detailed insights into the health literacy needs related to fluid management in individuals undergoing haemodialysis. The findings could inform the development of person-centered fluid management strategies for these individuals.

Reporting Method

We adhered to the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research checklist.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

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