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Aspirin versus metformin in pregnancies at high risk of preterm pre-eclampsia in China (AVERT): protocol for a multicentre, double-blind, 3-arm randomised controlled trial

Por: Liu · J. · Shen · L. · Nguyen-Hoang · L. · Zhou · Q. · Wang · C. C. · Lu · X. · Sahota · D. · Chong · K. C. · Ying · H. · Gu · W. · Zhou · R. · Yang · H. · Jiang · Y. · Chen · D. · Li · X. · Poon · L.
Introduction

Pre-eclampsia (PE) affects about 5% of Chinese pregnant women and is a major cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. The first trimester screening model developed by the Fetal Medicine Foundation, which uses the Bayes theorem to combine maternal characteristics and medical history together with measurements of biomarkers, has been proven to be effective and has superior screening performance to that of the traditional risk factor-based approach for the prediction of PE. Prophylactic use of low-dose aspirin in women at risk for PE has resulted in a lower incidence of preterm-PE. However, there is no consensus on the preferred aspirin dosage for the prevention of preterm-PE. Evidence has also suggested that metformin has the potential benefit in preventing PE in pregnant women who are at high risk of the disorder.

Method and analysis

We present a protocol (V.2.0, date 17 March 2022) for the AVERT trial, which is a multicentre, double-blinded, 3-arm randomised controlled trial (RCT) that uses an effective PE screening programme to explore the optimal dosage of aspirin and the role of metformin for the prevention of PE among high-risk pregnant women in China. We intend to recruit 66 000 singleton pregnancies without treatment of low-dose aspirin and metformin at 11–13 weeks’ gestation and all eligible women attending for their first trimester routine scan will be invited to undergo screening for preterm-PE by the combination of maternal factors, mean arterial pressure and placental growth factor. Women found to be at high risk of developing preterm-PE will be invited to take part in the RCT. This study will compare the incidence of preterm-PE with delivery at

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval for the study was obtained from the Joint Chinese University of Hong Kong–New Territories East Cluster Clinical Research Ethics Committee (CREC Ref. No. 2021.406) in Hong Kong and the Ethics Committee of each participating hospital in Mainland China. The study is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov. The results of the AVERT trial will be disseminated at international academic conferences and published in high-impact factor journals.

Trial registration number

NCT05580523.

Effect of platelet‐rich plasma combined with negative pressure wound therapy in treating patients with chronic wounds: A meta‐analysis

Abstract

A meta-analysis was conducted to comprehensively explore the effects of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) combined with negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) in treating patients with chronic wounds. Computer searches were conducted, from database infection to November 2023, in EMBASE, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, PubMed, Wanfang and China National Knowledge Infrastructure databases for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the use of PRP combined with NPWT technology for treating chronic wounds. Two researchers independently screened the literature, extracted data and conducted quality assessments according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Stata 17.0 software was employed for data analysis. Overall, 18 RCTs involving 1294 patients with chronic wounds were included. The analysis revealed that, compared with NPWT alone, the use of PRP combined with NPWT technology significantly improved the healing rate (odds ratios [OR] = 1.92, 95% confidence intervals [CIs]: 1.43–2.58, p < 0.001) and total effective rate (OR = 1.31, 95% CI: 1.23–1.39, p < 0.001), and also significantly shortened the healing time of the wound (standardized mean difference = −2.01, 95% CI: −2.58 to −1.45, p < 0.001). This study indicates that the treatment of chronic wounds with PRP combined with NPWT technology can significantly enhance clinical repair effectiveness and accelerate wound healing, with a high healing rate, and is worth further promotion and practice.

Meta‐analysis comparing different ultrasound detection methods to accurately assess wound healing and scar formation after caesarean section

Abstract

The accurate assessment of wound healing post-caesarean section, especially in twin pregnancies, remains a pivotal concern in obstetrics, given its implications for maternal health and recovery. Traditional methods, including conventional abdominal ultrasonography (CU), have been challenged by the advent of transvaginal ultrasonography (TU), offering potentially enhanced sensitivity and specificity. This meta-analysis directly compares the efficacy of TU and CU in evaluating wound healing and scar formation, crucial for optimizing postoperative care. Results indicate that TU is associated with significantly better outcomes in wound healing, demonstrated by lower REEDA scores (SMD = −20.56, 95% CI: [−27.34.20, −13.77], p < 0.01), and in scar formation reduction, evidenced by lower Manchester Scar Scale scores (SMD = −25.18, 95% CI: [−29.98, −20.39], p < 0.01). These findings underscore the potential of integrating TU into routine post-caesarean evaluation protocols to enhance care quality and patient recovery.

Multicentre double-blind randomised placebo-controlled trial evaluating the efficacy of the meningococcal B vaccine, 4CMenB (Bexsero), against Neisseria gonorrhoeae infection in men who have sex with men: the GoGoVax study protocol

Por: Seib · K. L. · Donovan · B. · Thng · C. · Lewis · D. A. · McNulty · A. · Fairley · C. K. · Yeung · B. · Jin · F. · Fraser · D. · Bavinton · B. R. · Law · M. · Chen · M. Y. · Chow · E. P. F. · Whiley · D. M. · Mackie · B. · Jennings · M. P. · Jennison · A. V. · Lahra · M. M. · Grulich · A. E
Introduction

Gonorrhoea, the sexually transmissible infection caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae, has a substantial impact on sexual and reproductive health globally with an estimated 82 million new infections each year worldwide. N. gonorrhoeae antimicrobial resistance continues to escalate, and disease control is largely reliant on effective therapy as there is no proven effective gonococcal vaccine available. However, there is increasing evidence from observational cohort studies that the serogroup B meningococcal vaccine four-component meningitis B vaccine (4CMenB) (Bexsero), licensed to prevent invasive disease caused by Neisseria meningitidis, may provide cross-protection against the closely related bacterium N. gonorrhoeae. This study will evaluate the efficacy of 4CMenB against N. gonorrhoeae infection in men (cis and trans), transwomen and non-binary people who have sex with men (hereafter referred to as GBM+).

Methods and analysis

This is a double-blind, randomised placebo-controlled trial in GBM+, either HIV-negative on pre-exposure prophylaxis against HIV or living with HIV (CD4 count >350 cells/mm3), who have had a diagnosis of gonorrhoea or infectious syphilis in the last 18 months (a key characteristic associated with a high risk of N. gonorrhoeae infection). Participants are randomised 1:1 to receive two doses of 4CMenB or placebo 3 months apart. Participants have 3-monthly visits over 24 months, which include testing for N. gonorrhoeae and other sexually transmissible infections, collection of demographics, sexual behaviour risks and antibiotic use, and collection of research samples for analysis of N. gonorrhoeae-specific systemic and mucosal immune responses. The primary outcome is the incidence of the first episode of N. gonorrhoeae infection, as determined by nucleic acid amplification tests, post month 4. Additional outcomes consider the incidence of symptomatic or asymptomatic N. gonorrhoeae infection at different anatomical sites (ie, urogenital, anorectum or oropharynx), incidence by N. gonorrhoeae genotype and antimicrobial resistance phenotype, and level and functional activity of N. gonorrhoeae-specific antibodies.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval was obtained from the St Vincent’s Hospital Human Research Ethics Committee, St Vincent’s Hospital Sydney, NSW, Australia (ref: 2020/ETH01084). Results will be disseminated in peer-reviewed journals and via presentation at national and international conferences.

Trial registration number

NCT04415424.

Explore the effect of pressure and time of compression on the risk of intraoperatively acquired pressure injury based on theoretical framework: A prospective study

Abstract

Surgery is a high risk factor for the occurrence of pressure injury (PI). On the basis of theoretical research, pressure and duration of pressure are key factors affecting PI. Pressure is affected by the individual pressure redistribution capacity. So our study aims to explore how the surgery time and pressure intensity affect the occurrence of PI and what are the risk factors. A prospective study. A total of 250 patients who underwent elective surgery in a grade-A general hospital from November 2021 to February 2023 were selected and divided into a group of 77 patients with IAPI (intraoperatively acquired pressure injury) and a group of 173 patients with no IAPI. Visual pressure inductive feedback system and body composition analysis technology were used to record the local pressure value and change of patients before and after anaesthesia. Relevant data of the patients were collected to explore the influencing factors. The maximum pressure and average pressure at the pressure site of the same patient changed before and after anaesthesia, and the pressure after anaesthesia was significantly higher than that before anaesthesia. There was no statistical difference in the average pressure after anaesthesia (p > 0.05), but the maximum pressure in the IAPI group was higher than that in the non-occurrence group (p < 0.05). The average pressure multiplied by the operation time in IAPI group is significantly higher than that in the non-IAPI group (p < 0.01). Multiple linear regression analysis (stepwise regression) showed that fat-free weight, age, waist circumference, body mass index (BMI) and gender were taken as independent variables into the regression model, affecting the maximum pressure. In addition, operation time ≥4 h may be a high risk factor for IAPI. In future studies, more objective research tools can be applied to improve the accuracy of predicting the risk of IAPI. In addition to gender and BMI, follow-up studies may consider including measures such as waist circumference and fat-free body weight in IAPI risk assessment to guide the clinical nursing work more scientifically.

Impact of health education on promoting influenza vaccination health literacy in primary school students: a cluster randomised controlled trial protocol

Por: Xie · W. · Xiao · J. · Chen · J. · Huang · H. · Huang · X. · He · S. · Xu · L.
Introduction

Influenza is a major public health threat, and vaccination is the most effective prevention method. However, vaccination coverage remains suboptimal. Low health literacy regarding influenza vaccination may contribute to vaccine hesitancy. This study aims to evaluate the effect of health education interventions on influenza vaccination rates and health literacy.

Methods and analysis

This cluster randomised controlled trial will enrol 3036 students in grades 4–5 from 20 primary schools in Dongguan City, China. Schools will be randomised to an intervention group receiving influenza vaccination health education or a control group receiving routine health education. The primary outcome is the influenza vaccination rate. Secondary outcomes include health literacy levels, influenza diagnosis rate, influenza-like illness incidence and vaccine protection rate. Data will be collected through questionnaires, influenza surveillance and self-reports at baseline and study conclusion.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval has been sought from the Ethics Committee of the School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University. Findings from the study will be made accessible to both peer-reviewed journals and key stakeholders.

Trial registration number

NCT06048406.

The triglyceride glucose index as a sensitive predictor for the risk of MACCEs in patients with diabetic foot ulcers: An ambispective longitudinal cohort study

Abstract

The triglyceride glucose (TyG) index has been confirmed a predictive value for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, no research has yet confirmed whether there is a linear correlation between the TyG index and MACCEs in DFUs. The present study aimed to delve into the association between the TyG index and the risk of MACCEs in patients with DFUs. A total of 960 inpatients with DFUs were recruited. All participants were followed up every 6 months for 11 years with a median of 83 months. According to the cut-off value of the TyG index acquired from receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, the subjects were divided into two groups: low-level (<9.12, n = 480) and high-level (≥9.12, n = 480). The relationship between the TyG index and MACCEs was evaluated by the multivariable Cox regression model, restricted cubic spline (RCS) model, stratified analysis and the Kaplan–Meier survival analysis. Out of 960 participants, 271 experienced MACCEs (28.22%), of whom 79 (29.15%) died. ROC analysis got the optimal TyG index cut-off value of 9.12. Multivariable Cox regression analysis combined with the RCS model showed that the TyG index was positively associated with MACCEs in an S-shaped non-linear dose-dependent manner within the range of TyG index 7.5–9.5 (p < 0.001). The Kaplan–Meier survival analysis indicated the higher the TyG index, the greater the cumulative incidence of MACCEs (log-rank, p < 0.001). The study first confirmed an S-shaped non-linear dose-dependent positive relationship between the TyG index and the risk of MACCEs in DFUs. Consequently, lowering the TyG index level aids in improving the prognosis of patients with DFUs.

Wound healing rates in COPD patients undergoing traditional pulmonary rehabilitation versus tailored Wound‐Centric interventions

Por: Yan He · He Zhu · Wenjie Xu · Tao Wang · Ying Chen

Abstract

This comparative cross-sectional study, conducted at Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, aimed to evaluate the efficacy of tailored wound-centric interventions (TWCI) versus traditional pulmonary rehabilitation (TPR) in enhancing wound healing in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Enrolling 340 patients with confirmed COPD, the study randomly assigned participants to either the TWCI or TPR group for a 12-week programme. The primary outcome measured was the rate of wound healing, with secondary outcomes including changes in pulmonary function tests (PFTs) and quality of life (QoL) scores. The TWCI group received a customized programme integrating standard pulmonary rehabilitation with specific wound care strategies, such as enhanced oxygen therapy, nutritional supplementation, and infection control measures. In contrast, the TPR group underwent a conventional pulmonary rehabilitation programme without targeted wound care interventions. Wound healing rates, PFTs, and QoL scores were assessed at the end of the intervention and 3 months post-intervention. The TWCI group demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in wound healing rates compared with the TPR group. The TWCI group had a 15% higher rate of reduction in wound size, a 10% rise in complete healing rates, and a 20% drop in infection rates (p < 0.05). Specifically, TWCI group exhibited higher rates of wound size reduction, complete healing, and decreased infection rates. Additionally, long-term pulmonary function and overall quality of life improvements were more pronounced in the tailored group, underscoring the benefits of a personalized approach to managing COPD and wound care. The study concluded that integrating wound-specific care strategies with pulmonary rehabilitation significantly enhances health outcomes in COPD patients with wounds. These findings supported the adoption of customized, multidisciplinary care plans, suggesting that tailored interventions can offer a comprehensive solution to the complex needs of COPD patients, potentially redefining best practices in chronic disease management.

Exploring the impact of OSA on short-term survival in patients with AECOPD admitted to the ICU

by Liangfeng Liu, Yang Chen, Guanwen He, Bingbang Lin, Zhongshou Zhu, Rifu Wei, Yangbin Xu

Background

Acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) is characterized by a sudden worsening of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) symptoms, which significantly contributes to hospitalizations related to COPD symptoms. Previous research has mainly focused on the correlation between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and COPD. However, there were few studies that investigated the short-term mortality rate of AECOPD patients with or without OSA.

Methods

Data for our research was taken from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care Database IV. A total of 1332 patients were included in the study based on well-defined criteria for selection and exclusion. By analyzing the characteristics of AECOPD patients, we compared those with and without OSA.

Results

There were 1122 AECOPD patients without OSA, 210 patients with OSA. In comparison to those without OSA, patients with OSA exhibited lower 30-day and 90-day ICU mortality with unadjusted HR, as well as lower hospital mortality with unadjusted OR. However, after adjustments were made, there were no significant associations observed between OSA and short-term mortality, including 30-day ICU mortality, 90-day ICU mortality, ICU mortality, and hospital mortality in AECOPD patients. Subgroup analysis revealed that OSA may act as a risk factor for AECOPD patients with a BMI lower than 30 kg/m2.

Conclusions

There is no impact on short-term survival in AECOPD patients with OSA under intensive care unit (ICU) management and nursing.

Characteristics of men who have casual sex with men among Chinese university students: A cross-sectional study

by Weiyong Chen, Qiaoqin Ma, Xiaohong Pan, Lin Chen, Hui Wang, Xin Zhou, Tingting Jiang, Wanjun Chen

Objectives

The characteristics of men who have sex with men (either exclusively or with both men and women; MSM) who engaged in casual sex among Chinese male university students have not been compared with the characteristics of men who have sex with only women (MSW). This information is important for tailoring targeted behavioral interventions to prevent human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/sexually transmitted infection (STI) transmission in this subgroup of MSM.

Methods

Data were derived from a large cross-sectional electronic questionnaire survey conducted at 13 universities in Zhejiang Province, China, in 2018. Bivariate analyses were used to compare demographic, HIV-related psychosocial, and behavioral characteristics between MSM and MSW students who engaged in casual sex during the previous year. Proportion differences between the two groups and their 95% confidence intervals were analyzed.

Results

Among the 583 sexually active male students who engaged in casual sex during the previous year, 128 and 455 were MSM and MSW, respectively. Compared with MSW students, larger proportions of MSM students reported knowing that male-to-male sexual behavior was the main mode of HIV transmission among Chinese students (62.5% vs. 45.5%), consenting to commercial sex (67.2% vs. 53.4%), wanting to know the HIV serostatus of partners before casual sex (65.8% vs. 51.3%), feeling at risk of HIV infection (40.5% vs. 11.8%), high condom-decision scale scores (55.3% vs. 42.6%), engaging in sex with ≥ 5 casual sex partners (44.6% vs. 25.9%), searching for casual partners online (89.2% vs. 51.3%), consuming alcohol before casual sex (64.8% vs. 45.0%), engaging in sex with regular partners (83.1% vs. 67.0%), engaging in commercial sex (54.2% vs. 26.4%), and visiting a clinic for voluntary counselling and testing (VCT) (16.4% vs. 8.4%). However, compared with MSW students, smaller proportions of MSM students reported knowing that consistent condom use could prevent HIV transmission (80.5% vs. 95.2%) and that VCT should be actively sought after risky sexual behavior (78.9% vs. 93.8%), using condoms sometimes/often (26.4% vs. 44.3%), and consistently using condoms (28.9% vs. 40.1%) while engaging in sex with casual partners.

Conclusions

MSM students who engaged in casual sex were at a greater risk of HIV/STI transmission, compared with MSW students. Comprehensive interventions to address the risks of unprotected male-to-male sex, searching for casual sex partners online, and non-use of HIV testing services are needed to reduce the burden of HIV/STI transmission among this subgroup of MSM.

Effect of transcranial direct current stimulation combined with transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation on poststroke cognitive impairment: a study protocol for a randomised controlled trial

Por: Liu · W. · Cheng · X. · Zhang · Y. · Liao · W.
Introduction

Poststroke cognitive impairment is a common complication in stroke survivors, seriously affecting their quality of life. Therefore, it is crucial to improve cognitive function of patients who had a stroke. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) are non-invasive, safe treatments with great potential to improve cognitive function in poststroke patients. However, further improvements are needed in the effectiveness of a single non-invasive brain stimulation technique for cognitive rehabilitation. This study protocol aims to investigate the effect and neural mechanism of the combination of tDCS and taVNS on cognitive function in patients who had a stroke.

Methods and analysis

In this single-centre, prospective, parallel, randomised controlled trial, a total of 66 patients with poststroke cognitive impairment will be recruited and randomly assigned (1:1:1) to the tDCS group, the taVNS group and the combination of tDCS and taVNS group. Each group will receive 30 min of treatment daily, five times weekly for 3 weeks. Primary clinical outcome is the Montreal Cognitive Assessment. Secondary clinical outcomes include the Mini-Mental State Examination, Stroop Colour Word Test, Trail Marking Test, Symbol Digit Modalities Test and Modified Barthel Index. All clinical outcomes, functional MRI and diffusion tensor imaging will be measured at preintervention and postintervention.

Ethics and dissemination

The trial has been approved by the Ethics Committee of the First Affiliated Hospital of Yangtze University (approval no: KY202390). The results will be submitted for publication in peer-reviewed journals or at scientific conferences.

Trial registration number

ChiCTR2300076632.

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy promotes the browning of white fat and contributes to the healing of diabetic wounds

Abstract

Non-healing wounds are one of the chronic complications of diabetes and have remained a worldwide challenge as one of the major health problems. Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) therapy is proven to be very successful for diabetic wound treatment, for which the molecular basis is not understood. Adipocytes regulate multiple aspects of repair and may be therapeutic for inflammatory diseases and defective wound healing associated with aging and diabetes. Endothelial cell-derived extracellular vesicles could promote wound healing in diabetes. To study the mechanism by which HBO promotes wound healing in diabetes, we investigated the effect of HBO on fat cells in diabetic mice. A diabetic wound mouse model was established and treated with HBO. Haematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining and immunofluorescence were used for the analysis of wound healing. To further explore the mechanism, we performed whole-genome sequencing on extracellular vesicles (EVs). Furthermore, we conducted in vitro experiments. Specifically, exosomes were collected from human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) cells after HBO treatment, and then these exosomes were co-incubated with adipose tissue. The wound healing rate in diabetic mice treated with HBO was significantly higher. HBO therapy promotes the proliferation of adipose precursor cells. HUVEC-derived exosomes treated with HBO significantly promoted fat cell browning. These data clarify that HBO therapy may promote vascular endothelial cell proliferation and migration, and promote browning of fat cells through vascular endothelial cells derived exosomes, thereby promoting diabetic wound healing. This provides new ideas for the application of HBO therapy in the treatment of diabetic trauma.

Shanghai Community-Based Schizophrenia Cohort (SCS): a protocol for establishing a longitudinal cohort and research database of patients with schizophrenia receiving community-based mental health treatment

Por: Zhu · Y. · He · S. · Liu · Y. · Chen · C. · Ge · X. · Zhang · W. · Zhu · Y. · Zhou · Q. · Jiang · Y. · Zhang · Y. · Xu · W. · Wang · N. · Cai · J. · Xie · B.
Introduction

Drivers for remission, relapse and violence-related behaviour among patients with schizophrenia are the most complicated issue.

Methods and analysis

This study aims to recruit a longitudinal cohort of patients with schizophrenia. Two suburban districts and two urban districts were randomly selected according to health service facilities, population, geographical region and socioeconomic status. Individuals (>18 years old) who received a diagnosis of schizophrenia following the International Classification of Diseases (10th edition) criteria within the past 3 years will be invited as participants. Assessments will be carried out in local community health centres. Data will be used to (1) establish a community-based schizophrenia cohort and biobank, (2) prospectively determine the course of multidimensional functional outcomes of patients with schizophrenia who are receiving community-based mental health treatment, and (3) map the trajectories of patients with schizophrenia and prospectively determine the course of multidimensional outcomes based on the differential impact of potentially modifiable moderators.

Ethics and dissemination

The study has been reviewed and approved by the Human Research Ethics Committee of Shanghai Mental Health Center (2021-67). Results of the study will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journals. If effective, related educational materials will be released to the public.

Deciphering the role of wound healing genes in skin cutaneous melanoma: Insights into expression, methylation, mutations, and therapeutic implications

Abstract

Skin Cutaneous Melanoma (SKCM) is a form of cancer that originates in the pigment-producing cells, known as melanocytes, of the skin. Delay wound healing is often correlated with the occurrence of and progression of SKCM. In this comprehensive study, we investigated the intricate roles of two important wound healing genes in SKCM, including Matrix Metalloproteinase-2 (MMP2) and Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 (MMP9). Through a multi-faceted approach, we collected clinical samples, conducted molecular experiments, including RT-qPCR, bisulphite sequencing, cell culture, cell Counting Kit-8, colony formation, and wound healing assays. Beside this, we also used various other databases/tools/approaches for additional analysis including, UALCAN, GEPIA, HPA, MEXPRESS, cBioPortal, KM plotter, DrugBank, and molecular docking. Our results revealed a significant up-regulation of MMP2 and MMP9 in SKCM tissues compared to normal counterparts. Moreover, promoter methylation analysis suggested an epigenetic regulatory mechanism. Validations using TCGA datasets and immunohistochemistry emphasized the clinical relevance of MMP2 and MMP9 dysregulation. Functional assays demonstrated their synergistic impact on proliferation and migration in SKCM cells. Furthermore, we identified potential therapeutic candidates, Estradiol and Calcitriol, through drug prediction and molecular docking analyses. These compounds exhibited binding affinities, suggesting their potential as MMP2/MMP9 inhibitors. Overall, our study elucidates the diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic implications of MMP2 and MMP9 in SKCM, shedding light on their complex interplay in SKCM occurrence and progression.

Comparison of the efficacy and tolerability of different repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation modalities for post-stroke dysphagia: a systematic review and Bayesian network meta-analysis protocol

Por: Chen · Q. · Kan · M. · Jiang · X. · Liu · H. · Zhang · D. · Yuan · L. · Xu · Q. · Bi · H.
Introduction

Up to 78% of patients who had a stroke develop post-stroke dysphagia (PSD), a significant consequence. Life-threatening aspiration pneumonia, starvation, and water and electrolyte abnormalities can result. Several meta-analyses have shown that repeated transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) improves swallowing in patients who had a stroke; however, the optimum model is unknown. This study will be the first Bayesian network meta-analysis (NMA) to determine the best rTMS modalities for swallowing of patients who had a stroke.

Methods and analysis

PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Google Scholar, Cochrane, the Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure, the Chongqing VIP Database and WanFang Data will be searched from their creation to 2 September 2023. All randomised controlled trials associated with rTMS for PSD will be included. Only Chinese or English results will be studied. Two researchers will independently review the literature and extract data, then use the Cochrane Collaboration’s Risk of Bias 2.0 tool to assess the included studies’ methodological quality. The primary outcome is swallowing function improvement, whereas secondary outcomes include side effects (eg, paraesthesia, vertigo, seizures) and quality of life. A pairwise meta-analysis and NMA based on a Bayesian framework will be conducted using Stata and R statistical software. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation system will assess outcome indicator evidence quality.

Ethics and dissemination

As all data in this study will be taken from the literature, ethical approval is not needed. We will publish our work in peer-reviewed publications and present it at academic conferences.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42023456386.

Global, regional and national epidemiology of allergic disorders in children from 1990 to 2019: findings from the Global Burden of Disease study 2019

Por: Lv · J.-j. · Kong · X.-m. · Zhao · Y. · Li · X.-y. · Guo · Z.-l. · Zhang · Y.-j. · Cheng · Z.-h.
Objective

This modelling study aimed to estimate the burden for allergic diseases in children during a period of 30 years.

Design

Population-based observational study.

Main outcomes and measures

The data on the incidence, mortality and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) for childhood allergic diseases, such as atopic dermatitis (AD) and asthma, were retrieved from the Global Burden of Disease study 2019 online database. This data set spans various groups, including different regions, ages, genders and Socio-Demographic Indices (SDI), covering the period from 1990 to 2019.

Results

In 2019, there were approximately 81 million children with asthma and 5.6 million children with AD worldwide. The global incidence of asthma in children was 20 million. Age-standardised incidence rates showed a decrease of 4.17% for asthma, from 1075.14 (95% uncertainty intervals (UI), 724.63 to 1504.93) per 100 000 population in 1990 to 1030.33 (95% UI, 683.66 to 1449.53) in 2019. Similarly, the rates for AD decreased by 5.46%, from 594.05 (95% UI, 547.98 to 642.88) per 100 000 population in 1990 to 561.61 (95% UI, 519.03 to 608.29) in 2019. The incidence of both asthma and AD was highest in children under 5 years of age, gradually decreasing with age. Interestingly, an increase in SDI was associated with a rise in the incidence of both conditions. However, the mortality rate and DALYs for asthma showed a contrasting trend.

Conclusions

Over the past three decades, there has been a worldwide increase in new asthma and AD cases, even though mortality rates have significantly declined. However, the prevalence of these allergic diseases among children varies considerably across regions, countries and age groups. This variation highlights the need for precise prevalence assessments. These assessments are vital in formulating effective strategies for prevention and treatment.

Transforming outcome expectations into retention among hospital nurses: A cross‐sectional study

Abstract

Aim

To examine the main effects and interaction effects of outcome expectations (e.g., anticipated satisfactory salary and benefits), nurse identity (a sense of membership in the nursing profession), and information-access efficiency of the electronic medical record system (how the system enables nurses to quickly retrieve the needed information) on nurses' retention.

Design

This study uses a cross-sectional survey and adopts proportionate random sampling to recruit a representative sample of nurses of a medical centre in Taiwan.

Methods

This study successfully obtained completed questionnaires from 430 nurses during December 2021 to January 2022. Data are analysed by using hierarchical regressions.

Results

Positive outcome expectations and identification as a member in the nursing profession are associated with retention. Information-access efficiency strengthens the link between outcome expectations and retention, while nurse identity weakens this link.

Conclusion

Outcome expectations can help retain nurses, particularly those who perceive high levels of information-access efficiency and possess weak nurse identity. That is, outcome expectations have a complementary role with nurse identity in retaining nurses.

Implications for the Profession

Nurse managers should devise means to build positive outcome expectations for nurses. In addition, either strengthening nurses' identification with the nursing profession or improving the information-access efficiency of the electronic medical system may also help retain nurses.

Impact

This study examined how to transform outcome expectation to nurse retention, offering nurse managers to devise new means to retain nurses.

Reporting Method

STROBE statement was chosen as EQUATOR checklist.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

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