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Journal of Clinical Medicine Jul 2023Mechanical thrombectomy (MT) has become a standard treatment for acute ischemic stroke (AIS) caused by large vessel occlusion (LVO). Recent evidence suggests that... (Review)
Review
Mechanical thrombectomy (MT) has become a standard treatment for acute ischemic stroke (AIS) caused by large vessel occlusion (LVO). Recent evidence suggests that general anesthesia (GA) and mechanical ventilation do not lead to inferior neurologic outcomes if compared to non-GA. However, the guidelines lack specific recommendations for ventilation targets during MT under GA. This systematic review aims to identify ventilation strategies correlating with better neurological outcomes in AIS patients undergoing MT, particularly focusing on oxygenation and carbon dioxide (CO) targets. A systematic search of multiple databases was conducted to identify human studies reporting the correlation between ventilation strategies and neurological outcomes in MT for AIS. Eligible studies included clinical trials, observational studies, and case-control studies. Out of 157 studies assessed, 11 met the inclusion criteria. Five studies investigated oxygenation targets, while six studies explored CO targets. The published studies highlighted the controversial role of supplemental normobaric oxygen therapy and its potential association with worse outcomes. Regarding CO targets, the studies identified a potential association between end tidal CO levels and functional outcomes, with hypocapnia being unfavorable. This systematic review demonstrates that the current available evidence still lacks strength to suggest specific ventilation targets, but it highlights the potential risks of hyperoxia and hypocapnia in this specific cohort of patients.
PubMed: 37568327
DOI: 10.3390/jcm12154925 -
Deuterium-Depleted Water in Cancer Therapy: A Systematic Review of Clinical and Experimental Trials.Nutrients May 2024Chemotherapy exhibits numerous side effects in anti-tumour therapy. The clinical experiments indicated that deuterium-depleted water (DDW) monotherapy or in combination... (Review)
Review
Chemotherapy exhibits numerous side effects in anti-tumour therapy. The clinical experiments indicated that deuterium-depleted water (DDW) monotherapy or in combination with chemotherapy was beneficial in inhibiting cancer development. To further understand the potential mechanism of DDW in cancer therapy, we performed a systematic review. The data from experiments published over the past 15 years were included. PubMed, Cochrane and Web of Science (January 2008 to November 2023) were systemically searched. Fifteen studies qualified for review, including fourteen in vivo and in vitro trials and one interventional trial. The results showed that DDW alone or in combination with chemotherapy effectively inhibited cancer progression in most experiments. The combination treatment enhances the therapeutic effect on cancer compared with chemotherapeutic monotherapy. The inhibitory role of DDW in tumours is through regulating the reactive oxygen species (ROS)-related genes in Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap 1) and Nuclear erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signalling pathways, further controlling ROS production. An abnormal amount of ROS can inhibit the tumour progression. More extensive randomized controlled trials should be conducted to evaluate the accurate effect of DDW in Keap1-Nrf2 signalling pathways.
Topics: Humans; Neoplasms; Deuterium; Water; Reactive Oxygen Species; Antineoplastic Agents; NF-E2-Related Factor 2; Signal Transduction; Kelch-Like ECH-Associated Protein 1; Animals; Clinical Trials as Topic
PubMed: 38732643
DOI: 10.3390/nu16091397 -
Animal Models and Experimental Medicine Feb 2024The maintenance dosage of selexipag is categorized as low, medium or high. In order to assess the efficacy and safety of different dosages of selexipag for the risk... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
BACKGROUND
The maintenance dosage of selexipag is categorized as low, medium or high. In order to assess the efficacy and safety of different dosages of selexipag for the risk stratification of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis.
METHODS
Studies assessing PAH risk stratification indices, such as the World Health Organization functional class (WHO-FC), six-minute walk distance (6MWD), N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) level, right atrial pressure (RAP), cardiac index (CI) and mixed venous oxygen saturation (SvO), were included.
RESULTS
Thirteen studies were included. Selexipag led to improvements in the 6MWD (MD: 24.20 m, 95% CI: 10.74-37.67), NT-proBNP (SMD: -0.41, 95% CI: -0.79-0.04), CI (MD: 0.47 L/min/m, 95% CI: 0.17-0.77) and WHO-FC (OR: 0.564, 95% CI: 0.457-0.697). Subgroup analysis demonstrated that all three dosages improved the 6MWD. A moderate dosage led to improvements in the CI (MD: 0.30 L/min/m, 95% CI: 0.15-0.46) and WHO-FC (OR: 0.589, 95% CI: 0.376-0.922). Within 6 months of treatment, only the WHO-FC and CI were significantly improved (OR: 0.614, 95% CI: 0.380-0.993; MD: 0.30 L/min/m, 95% CI: 0.16-0.45, respectively). More than 6 months of treatment significantly improved the 6MWD, WHO-FC and NT-proBNP (MD: 40.87 m, 95% CI: 10.97-70.77; OR: 0.557, 95% CI: 0.440-0.705; SMD: -0.61, 95% CI: -1.17-0.05, respectively).
CONCLUSIONS
Low, medium, and high dosages of selexipag all exhibited good effects. When treatment lasted for more than 6 months, selexipag exerted obvious effects, even in the low-dosage group. This finding is important for guiding individualized treatments.
Topics: Humans; Hypertension, Pulmonary; Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension; Acetamides; Pyrazines
PubMed: 37740617
DOI: 10.1002/ame2.12347 -
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.... Mar 2024Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are common complications of uncontrolled diabetes mellitus that can result in infection and amputation of the lower extremities. This study...
BACKGROUND
Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are common complications of uncontrolled diabetes mellitus that can result in infection and amputation of the lower extremities. This study compared the benefits and risks of hyperbaric oxygen therapy with those of other DFU treatments, based on the Wagner grading system.
METHODS
Systematic searches for randomly controlled trials using hyperbaric oxygen therapy for DFUs were performed using PubMed, the Cochrane Library, and Embase. Data regarding demographics, wound healing, minor and major amputations, operative debridement, nonhealing wounds, and adverse effects were analyzed based on Wagner grades, using RevMan 5.4.1 and Microsoft Excel.
RESULTS
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy was significantly superior to other treatments for wound healing rates 8 or more weeks after the final treatment (RR = 2.39; 1.87-3.05; < 0.00001) minor/distal amputations (RR = 0.58; 0.43-0.80; < 0.007), and major/proximal amputations (RR = 0.31; 0.18-0.52; < 0.00001) for the 14 studies analyzed. In addition, this therapy increased the rate of complete wound healing for Wagner grades II (RR = 21.11; 3.05-146.03; = 0.002), III (RR = 19.58; 2.82-135.94, = 0.003), and IV (RR = 17.53; 2.45-125.44; = 0.004); decreased the minor/distal amputation rate for grade III (RR = 0.06; 0.01-0.29; = 0.0004) and the major/proximal amputation rate on for grade IV (RR = 0.08; 0.03-0.25; < 0.0001); and decreased the operative debridement rate for Wagner grade II (RR = 0.09; 0.01-0.60; = 0.01).
CONCLUSIONS
Moderate-quality evidence revealed that adjunctive hyperbaric oxygen therapy improved DFU wound healing for Wagner grades II, III, and IV; prevented minor and major amputations for grades III and IV, respectively; and prevented operative debridement in grade II wounds.
PubMed: 38528847
DOI: 10.1097/GOX.0000000000005692 -
Cell Journal Feb 2024Exposure to phosgene, a colourless poisonous gas, can lead to various health issues including eye irritation, a dry and burning throat, vomiting, coughing, the...
Exposure to phosgene, a colourless poisonous gas, can lead to various health issues including eye irritation, a dry and burning throat, vomiting, coughing, the production of foamy sputum, difficulty in breathing, and chest pain. This systematic review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the clinical manifestations and treatment of phosgene toxicity by systematically analyzing available literature. The search was carried out on various scientific online databases to include related studies based on inclusion and exclusion criteria with the use of PRISMA guidelines. The quality of the studies was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT). Thirteen articles were included in this study after the screening process. Inhalation was found to be the primary health problem of phosgene exposure with respiratory symptoms such as coughing and dyspnea. Chest pain and pulmonary oedema were also observed in some cases. Furthermore, pulmonary crackle was the most common reported physical examination. Beyond respiratory tract health issues, other organs involvements such as cardiac, skin, eye, and renal were also reported in some studies. The symptoms can occur within minutes to hours after exposure, and the severity of symptoms depends on the amount of inhaled phosgene. The findings showed that bronchodilators can alleviate symptoms of bronchoconstriction caused by phosgene. Oxygen therapy is essential for restoring oxygen levels and improving respiratory function in cases of hypoxemia. In severe cases, endotracheal intubation and invasive mechanical ventilation are used for artificial respiration, along with the removal of tracheal secretions and pulmonary oedema fluid through suctioning as crucial components of supportive therapy.
PubMed: 38459726
DOI: 10.22074/cellj.2024.2011864.1405 -
Frontiers in Neurology 2024It is essential to link the theoretical framework of any neurophysiotherapy approach with a detailed analysis of the central motor control mechanisms that influence...
INTRODUCTION
It is essential to link the theoretical framework of any neurophysiotherapy approach with a detailed analysis of the central motor control mechanisms that influence motor behavior. Vojta therapy (VT) falls within interventions aiming to modify neuronal activity. Although it is often mistakenly perceived as exclusively pediatric, its utility spans various functional disorders by acting on central pattern modulation. This study aims to review the existing evidence on the effectiveness of VT across a wide range of conditions, both in the adult population and in pediatrics, and analyze common therapeutic mechanisms, focusing on motor control modulation.
AIM
The goals of this systematic review are to delineate the existing body of evidence concerning the efficacy of Vojta therapy (VT) in treating a broad range of conditions, as well as understand the common therapeutic mechanisms underlying VT with a specific focus on the neuromodulation of motor control parameters.
METHODS
PubMed, Cochrane Library, SCOPUS, Web of Science, and Embase databases were searched for eligible studies. The methodological quality of the studies was assessed using the PEDro list and the Risk-Of-Bias Tool to assess the risk of bias in randomized trials. Methodological quality was evaluated using the Risk-Of-Bias Tool for randomized trials. Random-effects meta-analyses with 95% CI were used to quantify the change scores between the VT and control groups. The certainty of our findings (the closeness of the estimated effect to the true effect) was evaluated using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations (GRADE).
RESULTS
Fifty-five studies were included in the qualitative analysis and 18 in the meta-analysis. Significant differences in cortical activity ( = 0.0001) and muscle activity ( = 0.001) were observed in adults undergoing VT compared to the control, as well as in balance in those living with multiple sclerosis ( < 0.03). Non-significant differences were found in the meta-analysis when evaluating gross motor function, oxygen saturation, respiratory rate, height, and head circumference in pediatrics.
CONCLUSION
Although current evidence supporting VT is limited in quality, there are indications suggesting its potential usefulness for the treatment of respiratory, neurological, and orthopedic pathology. This systematic review and meta-analysis show the robustness of the neurophysiological mechanisms of VT, and that it could be an effective tool for the treatment of balance in adult neurological pathology. Neuromodulation of motor control areas has been confirmed by research focusing on the neurophysiological mechanisms underlying the therapeutic efficacy of VT.https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=476848, CRD42023476848.
PubMed: 38711552
DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1391448 -
Journal of Sport and Health Science Jul 2024The study aimed to examine the reporting completeness of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of non-pharmacological interventions following concussion. (Review)
Review
PURPOSE
The study aimed to examine the reporting completeness of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of non-pharmacological interventions following concussion.
METHODS
We searched MEDLINE, Embase, PsycInfo, CINAHL, and Web of Science up to May 2022. Two reviewers independently screened studies and assessed reporting completeness using the Template for Intervention Description and Replication (TIDieR), Consensus on Exercise Reporting Template (CERT), and international Consensus on Therapeutic Exercise aNd Training (i-CONTENT) checklists. Additional information was sought my study authors where reporting was incomplete. Risk of bias (ROB) was assessed with the Cochrane ROB-2 Tool. RCTs examining non-pharmacological interventions following concussion.
RESULTS
We included 89 RCTs (n = 53 high ROB) examining 11 different interventions for concussion: sub-symptom threshold aerobic exercise, cervicovestibular therapy, physical/cognitive rest, vision therapy, education, psychotherapy, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, transcranial magnetic stimulation, blue light therapy, osteopathic manipulation, and head/neck cooling. Median scores were: TIDieR 9/12 (75%; interquartile range (IQR) = 5; range: 5-12), CERT 17/19 (89%; IQR = 2; range: 10-19), and i-CONTENT 6/7 (86%; IQR = 1; range: 5-7). Percentage of studies completely reporting all items was TIDieR 35% (31/89), CERT 24% (5/21), and i-CONTENT 10% (2/21). Studies were more completely reported after publication of TIDieR (t = 2.08; p = 0.04) and CERT (t = 2.72; p = 0.01). Reporting completeness was not strongly associated with journal impact factor (TIDieR: r = 0.27; p = 0.01; CERT: r = -0.44; p = 0.06; i-CONTENT: r = -0.17; p = 0.48) or ROB (TIDieR: r = 0.11; p = 0.31; CERT: r = 0.04; p = 0.86; i-CONTENT: r = 0.12; p = 0.60).
CONCLUSION
RCTs of non-pharmacological interventions following concussion demonstrate moderate to good reporting completeness, but are often missing key components, particularly modifications, motivational strategies, and qualified supervisor. Reporting completeness improved after TIDieR and CERT publication, but publication in highly cited journals and low ROB do not guarantee reporting completeness.
Topics: Humans; Brain Concussion; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; Exercise Therapy; Research Design; Athletic Injuries
PubMed: 37619783
DOI: 10.1016/j.jshs.2023.08.003 -
Archivos de Bronconeumologia May 2024The effectiveness of home high flow nasal cannula (HFNC) for the treatment of chronic respiratory failure in patients with chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs) has not... (Review)
Review
INTRODUCTION
The effectiveness of home high flow nasal cannula (HFNC) for the treatment of chronic respiratory failure in patients with chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs) has not been summarized. We aimed to conduct a systematic review of the effectiveness, adherence, and safety of HFNC in the long-term treatment of patients with chronic respiratory diseases and respiratory failure.
METHODS
A systematic review was conducted. PubMed, Web of science, and SCOPUS were search up to August 2023. Long-term HFNC studies (≥4 weeks) reporting dyspnea; exacerbations, hospitalizations; peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO), comfort; patient experience, health-related quality of life or partial pressure of carbon dioxide (paCO) were included.
RESULTS
Thirteen articles (701 patients) based on 10 studies were selected: randomized control trials (n=3), randomized crossover trials (n=2), crossover (n=3) and retrospective (n=2) studies. COPD (n=6), bronchiectasis (n=2), COPD/bronchiectasis (n=1) and ILD (n=1) were the underlined CRDs. HFNC reduced exacerbations when compared to usual care/home respiratory therapies (n=6). Quality of life outcomes were also in favor of HFNC in patients with COPD and bronchiectasis (n=6). HFNC had significant effects on hospitalizations, paCO, and lung function. Adherence ranged from 5.2 to 8.6h/day (n=5). Three studies reported no events, 3 non-serious events and 2 no differences compared with other home respiratory therapies.
CONCLUSIONS
HFNC seems more effective than usual care or other home respiratory therapies in reducing exacerbations and improving quality of life in patients with COPD and bronchiectasis, while presenting good adherence and being safe. Its apparently superior effectiveness needs to be better studied in future real-world pragmatic trials.
PubMed: 38782632
DOI: 10.1016/j.arbres.2024.05.001 -
International Journal of Chronic... 2024The effect of acupuncture as adjunctive therapy for acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) was controversial. Thus, we aimed to evaluate... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
PURPOSE
The effect of acupuncture as adjunctive therapy for acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) was controversial. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the effects of acupuncture for treating AECOPD.
METHODS
Eight databases were searched from database inception to July 30, 2023. All RCTs compared acupuncture plus conventional western medicine with conventional western medicine alone were included. Outcomes were quality of life, lung function, blood oxygen condition, exercise capacity, daily symptoms, duration of hospitalization, and adverse events. The statistical analyses were conducted using Stata 17.0, and methodological quality was measured by the Cochrane bias risk assessment tool. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach was used to assess the quality of evidence.
RESULTS
Twelve studies including 915 patients were included. Compared with conventional western medicine alone, acupuncture combined with conventional western therapy significantly improved quality of life (CAT: MD: -3.25; 95% CI: -3.73 to -2.78, <0.001) and arterial blood gas (PaCO: MD: -1.85; 95% CI: -2.74 to -0.95, <0.001; PaO: MD: 5.15; 95% CI: 1.22 to 9.07, = 0.01). And for lung function, statistical benefits were found in FEV/FVC (MD: 4.66; 95% CI: 2.21 to 7.12, <0.001), but no difference was seen for FEV% (MD: 1.83; 95% CI: -0.17 to 3.83, = 0.073). There was no significant improvement in exercise capacity (6MWD: MD: 96.69; 95% CI: -0.60 to 193.98, = 0.051), hospitalization duration (MD: -5.70; 95% CI: -11.97 to 0.58, = 0.075), and dyspnea (mMRC: MD: -0.19; 95% CI: -0.61 to 0.63, = 0.376) between two groups. Overall bias for CAT and mMRC was in "high" risk, FEV1%, FEV/FVC, PaCO, and PaO was in "some concern" and 1 RCT assessing hospitalization duration was in "low" risk. And the overall assessments were either moderate, low or very low certainty. Seven trials performed safety assessment of acupuncture, and no serious adverse events were reported.
CONCLUSION
Acupuncture might have auxiliary effects on AECOPD. However, the quality of the evidence is limited, and more high-quality RCTs are needed to be performed in the future.
Topics: Humans; Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive; Quality of Life; Acupuncture Therapy; Dyspnea; Respiratory Function Tests
PubMed: 38495215
DOI: 10.2147/COPD.S450257 -
Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice Mar 2024Cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk in those with diabetic foot disease is very high. Non-pharmacological interventions may improve this risk, though no previous evidence... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk in those with diabetic foot disease is very high. Non-pharmacological interventions may improve this risk, though no previous evidence synthesis has been completed. This systematic review aimed to investigate the impact of non-pharmacological interventions on CVD risk factors in diabetic ulcer disease. Multiple databases and trials registers were searched from inception to December 6th 2023. We included reports of randomised controlled trials investigating the impact of non-pharmacological interventions on cardiovascular risk in those with type 1 or type 2 diabetes and current or previous diabetic foot disease. Twenty studies were included. Extracted data included: study design and setting; participant sociodemographic factors; and change in cardiovascular risk factors. Data were synthesised using random effects meta-analyses and narrative syntheses. Interventions included nutritional supplementation, collaborative care, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, patient education, nurse-led intervention, self-management, family support, relaxation and exercise, over a median duration of 12 weeks. Significant post-intervention changes were observed in fasting plasma glucose, serum insulin levels, insulin sensitivity and resistance, glycated haemoglobin, triglycerides, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol and C-reactive protein. No effects were detected in very low- or high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol or body mass index. Non-pharmacological interventions show promise in improving CVD risk in diabetic foot disease.
Topics: Humans; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2; Diabetic Foot; Cardiovascular Diseases; Risk Factors; Cholesterol, HDL; Heart Disease Risk Factors
PubMed: 38403175
DOI: 10.1016/j.diabres.2024.111590