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Journal of Family Medicine and Primary... Oct 2023Primary care physicians are crucial in identifying SARS-CoV-2 infection and transferring suspected cases since they are on the front lines of health care. Micronutrients...
BACKGROUND
Primary care physicians are crucial in identifying SARS-CoV-2 infection and transferring suspected cases since they are on the front lines of health care. Micronutrients are used as an adjunctive treatment for viral respiratory infections. Because there is currently no effective antiviral therapy for COVID-19, micronutrients such as iron, zinc, and vitamin D may be important for the survival of critically ill patients.
OBJECTIVE
To establish and emphasize a relationship between iron, zinc, and vitamin D to COVID-19.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
PubMed database was used for articles selection. All relevant articles to our review with the topics regarding the use of iron, zinc and vitamin D in COVID-19 patients. We excluded other articles, which are not related to this field and did not match inclusion criteria. The data extracted according to specific form and double reviewed by the group members.
RESULTS
The search of the mentioned database returned a total of 3614 studies that were included for title screening. 2910 of them were included for abstract screening, which lead to the exclusion of 1064 articles. The remaining 1846 publications full texts were reviewed. The full-text revision led to the exclusion of 1812 studies, and 34 were enrolled for final data extraction.
CONCLUSION
This study raised the idea of employing zinc, iron, and vitamin D as ingredients to either protect SARS-CoV-2 patients or to speed up recovery, decrease symptoms severity and decrease mortality rates.
PubMed: 38074276
DOI: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_2460_22 -
JAMA Network Open May 2019The results from the recent International Duration Evaluation of Adjuvant Therapy (IDEA) collaboration have led some clinicians to adopt shorter durations of adjuvant... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
IMPORTANCE
The results from the recent International Duration Evaluation of Adjuvant Therapy (IDEA) collaboration have led some clinicians to adopt shorter durations of adjuvant chemotherapy for patients with stage III colon cancer. The extent to which these findings are supported by other data is unknown.
OBJECTIVE
To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized and observational studies investigating the association between the duration of adjuvant chemotherapy and survival among individuals diagnosed as having stage II and III colon cancer (PROSPERO protocol CRD42018108711]).
DATA SOURCES
Abstracts published in English between 2003 and 2018 within the MEDLINE, Embase, CENTRAL, and CINAHL databases were reviewed by 2 authors. Also searched were conference proceedings and the indexes of high-impact oncology journals.
STUDY SELECTION
Studies were excluded if they did not present original data; focused on animal populations, on cancers in sites other than the colon, or on patients with stage 0, I, or IV disease; did not examine a 5-flourouracil-based monotherapy or combination therapy; or did not evaluate the association between treatment duration and survival. The search identified 2341 articles, from which 2 randomized trials and 20 observational studies were included in the meta-analysis.
DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS
This study followed the PRISMA and MOOSE reporting guidelines. The risk of bias was assessed by 2 authors using the Cochrane and Risk of Bias in Nonrandomized Studies of Interventions (ROBINS-I) tools. The results were synthesized using a random-effects model.
MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES
The primary and secondary outcomes were overall survival and disease-free survival, respectively. It was hypothesized a priori that 3 months of chemotherapy would be as effective as 6 months of chemotherapy.
RESULTS
Twenty-two studies were included in the meta-analysis, representing 43 671 patients. The inclusion of patients with stage II disease or with rectal cancer was identified as a source of heterogeneity. After restricting the analysis to patients with stage III colon cancer, there was no association between the duration of chemotherapy and overall survival among studies involving FOLFOX (leucovorin calcium [folinic acid], fluorouracil, and oxaliplatin) or CAPOX (capecitabine plus oxaliplatin) regimens (hazard ratio [HR], 0.80; 95% CI, 0.58-1.09). Among studies focused exclusively on monotherapy, the standard 6-month regimen relative to a 3-month regimen was associated with improved survival (HR, 0.59; 95% CI, 0.52-0.68).
CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE
Shortened durations of chemotherapy may reduce survival among patients with stage III colon cancer prescribed monotherapy but not a combination regimen.
Topics: Antimetabolites, Antineoplastic; Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols; Capecitabine; Chemotherapy, Adjuvant; Colonic Neoplasms; Fluorouracil; Leucovorin; Neoplasm Staging; Observational Studies as Topic; Organoplatinum Compounds; Oxaliplatin; Progression-Free Survival; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; Time Factors
PubMed: 31099875
DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2019.4154 -
Sichuan Da Xue Xue Bao. Yi Xue Ban =... Jan 2024Disease control priority (DCP) is an important public health intervention strategy. Diseases that should be prioritized for prevention and control are first screened...
Disease control priority (DCP) is an important public health intervention strategy. Diseases that should be prioritized for prevention and control are first screened with a series of criteria, including the severity of the disease burden, the effectiveness of disease control technologies, the prevention and control capacity of the existing health system, etc. Then, the prevention and control technologies for these diseases undergo qualitative evaluation (eg, face-to-face interviews, expert consultation, workshops, etc) and quantitative evaluation (eg, cost-benefit analysis, multi-criteria decision analysis, etc). Finally, the public health initiatives that should be prioritized are identified. From the conception of the idea, to the formal proposition of the concept, to guidance for practice, DCP has gone through more than 70 years of development. Through DCP, significant contributions has been made to improving the efficiency of health care service systems and promoting the health of populations in developing countries. Herein, we systematically reviewed the background, development history, realization method, and practical applications of DCP, focusing on exploring the application potential of DCP in health governance and providing technical support and decision-making reference for the comprehensive promotion of the Healthy China Initiative.
Topics: China; Health Priorities; Health Status; Public Health; Communicable Disease Control
PubMed: 38322541
DOI: 10.12182/20240160603 -
Journal of Global Health May 2023Performance-based financing (PBF) assumes that subsidizing user fees for maternal health services to reduce out-of-pocket expenses will expand coverage and reduce...
A systematic review of the effect of performance-based financing interventions on out-of-pocket expenses to improve access to, and the utilization of, maternal health services across health sectors in sub-Saharan Africa.
BACKGROUND
Performance-based financing (PBF) assumes that subsidizing user fees for maternal health services to reduce out-of-pocket expenses will expand coverage and reduce inequities in access to maternal health services. It is usually associated with process changes, and the idea that increasing a facility's resources from PBF interventions can improve the availability of equipment, drugs, and medical supplies at the facility, has an indirect effect on out-of-pocket expenses. Assessment of complex interventions such as PBF requires consideration of specific underlying assumption or theories of change. Such assessment will allow a better and broader understanding of the system's strengths and weaknesses, where the gaps lie, whether the theory of change is sound, and will inform policy design and implementation.
METHODS
Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA 2020) checklist, we performed a systematic review and a critical appraisal of selected studies using the risk-of-bias criteria developed by the Cochrane Effective Practice and Organisation of Care. We used the Grading of Recommendation and Evaluation, Development and Assessment framework for assessing the overall strength of the evidence.
RESULTS
After the abstract screening (n = 9873), we deemed 302 as relevant for full-text screening and assessed 85 studies for review eligibility. Finally, we included 17 studies in the review. We could not conduct a meta-analysis, so we report a narrative synthesis. As an add-on to an existing payment mechanism, PBF may facilitate the removal of operational barriers to enhance utilization of certain maternal health services in some contexts, especially in public facilities.
CONCLUSIONS
PBF strategies may potentially decrease out-of-pocket expenses for specific maternal health services, especially in settings that have already instituted some form of user fee exemption policies on maternal health services. The implementation of PBF can be considered a potential access instrument in reducing out-of-pocket expenses to stimulate demand for maternal services. However, the implementation approaches employed will determine utilization, taking into consideration existing equitable and inequitable access characteristics which vary by context.
REGISTRATION
PROSPERO CRD42020222893.
Topics: Female; Humans; Pregnancy; Africa South of the Sahara; Health Expenditures; Health Services Accessibility; Maternal Health Services; Policy
PubMed: 37143430
DOI: 10.7189/jogh.13.04035 -
BMJ (Clinical Research Ed.) Feb 2020To identify and summarise existing indices for measuring multimorbidity beyond disease counts, to establish which indices include mental health comorbidities or...
OBJECTIVES
To identify and summarise existing indices for measuring multimorbidity beyond disease counts, to establish which indices include mental health comorbidities or outcomes, and to develop recommendations based on applicability, performance, and usage.
DESIGN
Systematic review.
DATA SOURCES
Seven medical research databases (Medline, Web of Science Core Collection, Cochrane Library, Embase, PsycINFO, Scopus, and CINAHL Plus) from inception to October 2018 and bibliographies and citations of relevant papers. Searches were limited to English language publications.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR STUDY SELECTION
Original articles describing a new multimorbidity index including more information than disease counts and not focusing on comorbidity associated with one specific disease. Studies were of adults based in the community or at population level.
RESULTS
Among 7128 search results, 5560 unique titles were identified. After screening against eligibility criteria the review finally included 35 papers. As index components, 25 indices used conditions (weighted or in combination with other parameters), five used diagnostic categories, four used drug use, and one used physiological measures. Predicted outcomes included mortality (18 indices), healthcare use or costs (13), hospital admission (13), and health related quality of life (7). 29 indices considered some aspect of mental health, with most including it as a comorbidity. 12 indices are recommended for use.
CONCLUSIONS
35 multimorbidity indices are available, with differing components and outcomes. Researchers and clinicians should examine existing indices for suitability before creating new ones.
SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION
PROSPERO CRD42017074211.
Topics: Bias; Community Health Services; Evidence-Based Medicine; Health Status Indicators; Humans; Mental Disorders; Multimorbidity; Outcome Assessment, Health Care; Quality of Life; Reproducibility of Results; Risk Assessment
PubMed: 32071114
DOI: 10.1136/bmj.m160 -
Cyclodextrin inclusion complexes improving antibacterial drug profiles: an update systematic review.Future Microbiology Dec 2023The study aimed to review experimental models using cyclodextrins to improve antibacterial drugs' physicochemical characteristics and biological activities. The...
The study aimed to review experimental models using cyclodextrins to improve antibacterial drugs' physicochemical characteristics and biological activities. The following terms and their combinations were used: cyclodextrins and antibacterial agents in title or abstract, and the total study search was conducted over a period up to October 2022. The review was carried out using PubMed, Scopus and Embase databases. A total of 1580 studies were identified, of which 27 articles were selected for discussion in this review. The biological results revealed that the antibacterial effect of the inclusion complexes was extensively improved. Cyclodextrins can enhance the therapeutic effects of antibiotics already existing on the market, natural products and synthetic molecules. Overall, CDs as drug-delivery vehicles have been shown to improve antibiotics solubility, stability, and bioavailability, leading to enhanced antibacterial activity.
Topics: Anti-Bacterial Agents; Cyclodextrins; Solubility
PubMed: 37910070
DOI: 10.2217/fmb-2023-0124 -
Musculoskeletal Science & Practice Feb 2020Initial or between session improvements in pain and/or function are often considered to be predictive of ultimate outcomes in musculoskeletal problems.
BACKGROUND
Initial or between session improvements in pain and/or function are often considered to be predictive of ultimate outcomes in musculoskeletal problems.
OBJECTIVE
To determine the long-term prognostic value of within and between session improvements to pain and function.
DESIGN
Systematic review of relevant literature.
METHOD
A search was made of multiple databases (Pubmed/Medline, Cochrane, Cinahl, and AMed) using relevant search terms. Titles, abstracts, and then full texts were filtered to find articles that met the strict inclusion/exclusion criteria. Searching, data extraction, and quality assessment, using GRADE, were done independently by two authors. Disagreements were resolved by consensus.
RESULTS
Only 13 articles met the criteria for inclusion. For the effect of pain location or pain intensity changes in the first treatment session on medium or long-term pain, disability, return-to-work, or global outcomes nine outcomes were available. Findings were mostly inconclusive (5) or negative (3). There was only one study evaluating between session improvements with ambiguous results. There were no studies evaluating the prognostic value of early improvements in function.
CONCLUSIONS
There is no conclusive evidence to support the concept that early changes in pain location or pain intensity offer a good longer-term prognosis on a variety of outcomes; and no evidence relating to early improvements in function. The idea that patients who appear to improve in the first treatment session will do well longer term is not supported by the literature.
Topics: Adult; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Musculoskeletal Diseases; Musculoskeletal Pain; Prognosis; Recovery of Function
PubMed: 32056828
DOI: 10.1016/j.msksp.2019.102102 -
The Cochrane Database of Systematic... Oct 2020Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) play a vital role in neonatal nutrition. Optimal BCAA supplementation might improve neonatal nutrient storage, leading to better...
BACKGROUND
Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) play a vital role in neonatal nutrition. Optimal BCAA supplementation might improve neonatal nutrient storage, leading to better physical and neurological development and other outcomes.
OBJECTIVES
To determine the effect of BCAA supplementation on physical growth and neurological development in term and preterm neonates. We planned to make the following comparisons: parenteral nutrition with and without BCAA supplementation; enteral BCAA supplementation versus no supplementation; and any type of supplementation including enteral, parenteral and both ways versus no supplementation. To investigate the supplementation effectiveness for different dosages assessed in the eligible trials.
SEARCH METHODS
We conducted comprehensive searches using Cochrane Neonatal's standard search strategies: Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL 2016, Issue 6), MEDLINE, Embase and CINAHL (up to July 2016). We updated the search with CENTRAL (2019, Issue 8), MEDLINE, Embase and CINAHL (up to August 2019). We also searched clinical trials registries and reference lists of retrieved articles.
SELECTION CRITERIA
We planned to include individual and cluster-randomised and quasi-randomised controlled trials comparing BCAA supplementation versus placebo or no supplementation in term and preterm neonates. We excluded trials presented only as abstracts and cross-over trials.
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS
Two review authors independently assessed the eligibility of all potential studies identified from the search strategy. We planned to extract data using a pilot-tested standard data extraction form and assess risk of bias of the included studies following the methods described in the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. We planned to analyse treatment effects and report their effect estimates as per dichotomous or continuous data with 95% confidence intervals. We planned to conduct subgroup analysis to investigate heterogeneity, and perform sensitivity analysis where possible. We planned to use fixed-effect meta-analysis to combine data wherever appropriate. We planned to assess evidence quality using the GRADE approach.
MAIN RESULTS
We did not identify any potentially eligible studies that met the inclusion criteria in this review.
AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS
We found no trial data to support or refute the idea that BCAA supplementation affects physical and neurological development and other outcomes in term and preterm neonates.
Topics: Amino Acids, Branched-Chain; Child Development; Humans; Infant, Newborn; Infant, Premature
PubMed: 33006765
DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD012273.pub2 -
Forensic Science International Apr 2019The extent to which cognitive biases may influence decision-making in forensic science is an important question with implications for training and practice. We conducted...
The extent to which cognitive biases may influence decision-making in forensic science is an important question with implications for training and practice. We conducted a systematic review of the literature on cognitive biases in forensic science disciplines. The initial literature search including electronic searching of three databases (two social science, one science) and manual review of reference lists in identified articles. An initial screening of title and abstract by two independent reviewers followed by full text review resulted in the identification of 29 primary source (research) studies. A critical methodological deficiency, serious enough to make the study too problematic to provide useful evidence, was identified in two of the studies. Most (n = 22) conducted analyses limited to practitioners (n = 17), forensic science trainees (n = 2), or both forensic science practitioners and students (n = 3); other analyses were based on university student or general population participants. Latent fingerprint analysis was examined in 11 studies, with 1-3 other studies found in 13 other disciplines or domains. This set of studies provides a robust database, with evidence of the influence of confirmation bias on analysts conclusions, specifically among the studies with practitioners or trainees presented with case-specific information about the "suspect" or crime scenario (in 9 of 11 studies examining this question), procedures regarding use of exemplar(s) (in 4 of 4 studies), or knowledge of a previous decision (in 4 of 4 studies). The available research supports the idea of susceptibility of forensic science practitioners to various types of confirmation bias and of the potential value of procedures designed to reduce access to unnecessary information and control the order of providing relevant information, use of multiple comparison samples rather than a single suspect exemplar, and replication of results by analysts blinded to previous results.
Topics: Bias; Cognition; Decision Making; Forensic Sciences; Humans; Research
PubMed: 30769302
DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2019.01.016 -
BMC Pediatrics Dec 2015Although some research has examined the use of games for the education of pediatric patients, the use of technology for parental education seems like an appropriate... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Although some research has examined the use of games for the education of pediatric patients, the use of technology for parental education seems like an appropriate application as it has been a part of the popular culture for at least 30 years. The main objective of this systematic review is to examine the literature for research evaluating the use of interactive media in the education of parents of children with chronic conditions.
METHODS
We searched the MEDLINE, PSYCHINFO, CINAHL, Cochrane database of systematic reviews and EMBASE databases from 1986 to 2014 seeking original investigations on the use of interactive media and video games to educate parents of children with chronic conditions. Cohort studies, randomized control trials, and observational studies were included in our search of the literature. Two investigators reviewed abstracts and full texts as necessary. The quality of the studies was assessed using the GRADE guidelines. Overall trend in the results and the degree of certainty in the results were considered when assessing the body of literature pertaining to our focused questions.
RESULTS
Our initial search identified 4367 papers, but only 12 fulfilled the criterion established for final analysis, with the majority of the studies having flaws that reduced their quality. These papers reported mostly positive results supporting the idea that parent education is possible through interactive media.
CONCLUSION
We found limited evidence of the effectiveness of using serious games and or interactive media to educate parents of children with chronic conditions.
Topics: Child; Chronic Disease; Disease Management; Health Education; Humans; Mass Media; Parents
PubMed: 26634913
DOI: 10.1186/s12887-015-0517-2