-
BMC Women's Health Nov 2020Portable devices that can be used to perform colposcopy may improve cervical cancer screening in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) where access to colposcopy is... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
Screening test accuracy of portable devices that can be used to perform colposcopy for detecting CIN2+ in low- and middle-income countries: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
BACKGROUND
Portable devices that can be used to perform colposcopy may improve cervical cancer screening in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) where access to colposcopy is limited. The objective of this study was to systematically review the diagnostic test accuracy (DTA) of these devices for the detection of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 or higher (CIN2+).
METHODS
In accordance with our protocol (Prospero CRD42018104286), we searched Embase, Medline and the Cochrane Controlled Register of Trials up to 9/2019. We included DTA studies, which investigated portable devices with moderate-to-high optical magnification (≥ 6×) for colposcopy, as described in the manual for Colposcopy and Treatment by the International Agency for Research on Cancer, with a histopathological reference standard. We used the QUADAS-2 tool to assess study quality. We examined results for sensitivity and specificity in paired forest plots, stratified by stages in the clinical pathway. We pooled estimates of test accuracy for the index test, used as an add-on to other tests, using a bivariate random-effect model.
RESULTS
We screened 1737 references and assessed 239 full-text articles for eligibility. Five single-gate DTA studies, including 2693 women, met the inclusion criteria. Studies evaluated two devices (Gynocular™ and Pocket) at different stages of the screening pathway. In three studies, which used the index test in an add-on capacity in 1273 women, we found a pooled sensitivity of 0.79 (95% CI 0.55-0.92) and specificity of 0.83 (95% CI 0.59-0.94). The main sources of bias were partial verification, incorporation and classification bias.
CONCLUSION
Few studies have evaluated portable devices able to perform colposcopy, so their accuracy for the detection of CIN2+ remains uncertain. Future studies should include patient-relevant and long-term outcomes, including missed cases, overtreatment, residual and recurrent disease. To meet the challenge of eliminating cervical cancer in LMIC, methods for visual assessment of the cervix need urgent redress.
Topics: Colposcopy; Developing Countries; Early Detection of Cancer; Equipment Design; Female; Humans; Sensitivity and Specificity; Uterine Cervical Neoplasms; Uterine Cervical Dysplasia
PubMed: 33198721
DOI: 10.1186/s12905-020-01121-3 -
Frontiers in Bioscience (Landmark... Jun 2022This study was to explore the research status and research hotspots of ferritinophagy in the past eight years.
OBJECTIVE
This study was to explore the research status and research hotspots of ferritinophagy in the past eight years.
METHODS
Relevant papers on ferritinophagy from 2014 to 2021 was retrieved from the science citation extended database of the Web of Science. Through the application of bibliometrics research methods and bibliometrics analysis software VOSviewer to extract, analyze and visualize journals, authors, research institutions and keywords, to clarify the hot spots and development history of peritoneal dialysis research.
RESULTS
A total of 134 studies were screened and included in this study. Overall, the output of ferritinophagy research had fluctuated in the past 8 years. China's research on ferritinophagy had the largest number of published articles. The United States still maintained a leading position in research in this field, and its citation frequency, H-index and funding output are all at the forefront. Among them, international cooperation with relevant institutions was also more frequent. Ferritinophagy was currently mainly focused on cell biology. Tumor research might be the next major clinical research direction in this field. The related research on oxidative stress pathways, cell death methods, and nuclear receptor co-activator 4 (NCOA4) in the field of ferritinophagy were current research hotspots.
CONCLUSIONS
It could be understanding the research status and hotspots of ferritinophagy in the world more clearly and intuitively by using the bibliometric method.
Topics: Bibliometrics; Publications; United States
PubMed: 35748269
DOI: 10.31083/j.fbl2706193 -
Frontiers in Neurology 2020Despite our understanding of the impact of noise-induced damage to the auditory system, much less is known about the impact of noise exposure on the vestibular system.... (Review)
Review
Despite our understanding of the impact of noise-induced damage to the auditory system, much less is known about the impact of noise exposure on the vestibular system. In this article, we review the anatomical, physiological, and functional evidence for noise-induced damage to peripheral and central vestibular structures. Morphological studies in several animal models have demonstrated cellular damage throughout the peripheral vestibular system and particularly in the otolith organs; however, there is a paucity of data on the effect of noise exposure on human vestibular end organs. Physiological studies have corroborated morphological studies by demonstrating disruption across vestibular pathways with otolith-mediated pathways impacted more than semicircular canal-mediated pathways. Similar to the temporary threshold shifts observed in the auditory system, physiological studies in animals have suggested a capacity for recovery following noise-induced vestibular damage. Human studies have demonstrated that diminished sacculo-collic responses are related to the severity of noise-induced hearing loss, and dose-dependent vestibular deficits following noise exposure have been corroborated in animal models. Further work is needed to better understand the physiological and functional consequences of noise-induced vestibular impairment in animals and humans.
PubMed: 33324332
DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.593919 -
Ophthalmic & Physiological Optics : the... Jul 2022As the prevalence of eye diseases increases, demand for effective, accessible and equitable eye care grows worldwide. This is especially true in lower and middle-income... (Review)
Review
PURPOSE
As the prevalence of eye diseases increases, demand for effective, accessible and equitable eye care grows worldwide. This is especially true in lower and middle-income countries, which have variable levels of infrastructure and economic resources to meet this increased demand. In the present study we aimed to review the literature on eye care in Pakistan comprehensively, with a particular focus on eye care pathways, patient priorities and economics.
METHODS
A systematic scoping review was performed to identify literature relating to eye care in Pakistan. Searches of relevant electronic databases and grey literature were carried out. The results were analysed through a mixed methods approach encompassing descriptive numerical summary and thematic analysis. To consolidate results and define priority areas for future study, expert consultation exercises with key stakeholders were conducted using qualitative semi-structured interviews.
RESULTS
One hundred and thirty-two papers (published and unpublished) were included in the final review. The majority (n = 93) of studies utilised a quantitative design. Seven interlinked themes were identified: eye care pathways, burden of eye disease, public views on eye-related issues, workforce, barriers to uptake of eye care services, quality of eye care services and economic impact of blindness. Research priorities included investigating the eye care workforce, the quality and efficiency of current eye care services, eye care services available in rural Pakistan and the costs and benefits related to eye care provision and sustaining eye care programmes.
CONCLUSIONS
To the best of our knowledge, this is the first review to synthesise evidence from papers across the field relating to eye care in Pakistan. As such, this work provides new insights into the achievements of the national eye health programme, challenges in eye care in Pakistan and priority areas for future research.
Topics: Critical Pathways; Humans; Pakistan; Referral and Consultation
PubMed: 35318687
DOI: 10.1111/opo.12977 -
Frontiers in Microbiology 2024The association between intestinal microbiota and lipids has garnered significant scholarly interest. This study analyzes pertinent literature on intestinal microbiota...
OBJECTIVE
The association between intestinal microbiota and lipids has garnered significant scholarly interest. This study analyzes pertinent literature on intestinal microbiota and lipids to offer scientific guidance for future advancements and research directions.
METHODS
Articles focusing on intestinal microbiota and lipids were obtained from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC). Following a rigorous screening process, 12,693 articles were included in the study. The collected data was processed comprehensively and visually analyzed using various academic tools such as CiteSpace, VOSviewer, R software, and Scimago Graphica.
RESULTS
The field of intestinal microbiota and its relationship with major lipids has witnessed a significant surge in scholarly attention, as indicated by the upward trend observed in related articles. Among countries, China had emerged as the leading contributor in publication output, with Chinese Acad Sci being the most prolific institution in this field. Notably, Nutrients and Nature were the prominent journals that published many articles and garnered the highest number of co-citations. Scholars have widely recognized Patrice D Cani's notable contributions in this field. Current research endeavors have focused on obesity, insulin resistance, metabolism, growth performance, the gut-brain axis, and others.
CONCLUSIONS
Our analysis identified four primary research trends: "biochemical pathways," "exploration of diseases," "intervention and effect," and "health and diet." Future scholars must devote more attention to intestinal microbiota and major lipids to advance our understanding of human health.
PubMed: 38746743
DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1361439 -
Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine... Apr 2024To assess the efficacy and safety of extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) combined with sodium hyaluronate (HA) for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis (KOA). (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
OBJECTIVE
To assess the efficacy and safety of extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) combined with sodium hyaluronate (HA) for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis (KOA).
METHODS
PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang database, China Science and Technology Journal Database, and SinoMed were searched from inception to July 2020. The quality of the randomized controlled trials was evaluated independently by two reviewers according to the criteria in the Cochrane Collaboration for Systematic Reviews. The identified articles were then screened individually using EndnoteX9 for eligibility in this Meta-analysis. The heterogeneity among the articles was evaluated using I2.
RESULTS
A total of 17 studies, comprising 2000 individuals, were included in this Meta-analysis. The results showed that a significant improvement was observed in knee pain and function based on the clinical efficacy of ESWT combined with HA. Statistical analysis of clinical efficacy showed that [relative risk () = 1.21, 95% confidence interval () (1.12, 1.30), 0.01]. Statistical analysis of visual analog scale showed that [standardized mean difference () = -2.84, 95% (-4.01, -1.66), 0.01]. Western Ontario and McMaster University osteoarthritis index statistical analysis showed that [ = -1.57, 95% (-2.52, -0.61), 0.01]. Lysholm score statistical analysis showed that [ = 1.71, 95% (0.98, 2.44), 0.01]. In addition, only minor side effects, such as redness and swelling of the skin, were observed.
CONCLUSIONS
Medium to low quality evidence showed that ESWT combined with HA offers an inexpensive, well-tolerated, safe, and effective method to improve pain and functionality in patients with KOA. However, tightly controlled, randomized, large multicenter trials are warranted to validate the current findings.
Topics: Humans; Osteoarthritis, Knee; Hyaluronic Acid; Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy; Knee Joint; Pain
PubMed: 38504530
DOI: 10.19852/j.cnki.jtcm.20231226.002 -
Frontiers in Neuroscience 2022Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness worldwide. It is suggested that primary open angle glaucoma (POAG), the most common form of glaucoma, may be associated with...
Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness worldwide. It is suggested that primary open angle glaucoma (POAG), the most common form of glaucoma, may be associated with significant metabolic alternations, but the systemic literature review and meta-analysis in the area have been missing. Altered metabolomic profiles in the aqueous humor and plasma may serve as possible biomarkers for early detection or treatment targets. In this article, we performed a systematic meta-analysis of the current literature surrounding the metabolomics of patients with POAG and metabolites associated with the disease. Results suggest several metabolites found to be specifically altered in patients with POAG, suggesting broad generalizability and pathways for future research.
PubMed: 35645711
DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.835736 -
Orphanet Journal of Rare Diseases Mar 2022Rosai-Dorfman-Destombes disease (RDD) is a rare histiocytic disorder with heterogeneous clinical manifestations and rare neurologic involvement. The existing clinical...
BACKGROUND
Rosai-Dorfman-Destombes disease (RDD) is a rare histiocytic disorder with heterogeneous clinical manifestations and rare neurologic involvement. The existing clinical literature about neurologic RDD has yet to be critically examined.
METHODS
We performed a four-database English-language systematic literature search for cases of RDD neurohistiocytosis, excluding secondary literature. Individual patient data for neurologic symptoms, disease sites, treatments, and responses were captured. Responses to first-line and second-line surgical interventions, post-surgical radiotherapy, and systemic therapies were analyzed.
RESULTS
Among 4769 articles yielded by literature search, 154 articles were fully reviewed, containing data on 224 patients with neurologic RDD. 128 (83.1%) articles were single case reports. 149 (66.5%) patients were male, 74 (33.5%) female, with a median age of 37.6 years (range 2-79). Presenting neurologic symptoms included headache (45.1%), focal neurological deficits (32.6%), visual symptoms (32.1%), and seizures (24.6%). RDD involvement was multifocal in 32 (14.3%) cases. First-line treatment involved resection in 200 (89.6%) patients, with subsequent progression in 52 (26%), including 41 (78.8%) with unifocal disease. No difference was observed in progression-free survival comparing post-operative radiotherapy to no radiotherapy following partial resection. Chemotherapy given alone as first-line treatment led to complete or partial response in 3/7(43%) patients. Second-line treatments led to complete or partial response in 18/37(37.5%) patients. Mutational data were reported on 10 patients (4.46%).
CONCLUSIONS
This review highlights the limited published data about neurologic RDD, which presents with varied symptomatology and outcome. Further study is needed about its mutational landscape, and more effective therapies are needed for recurrent and refractory disease.
Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Aged; Child; Child, Preschool; Female; Histiocytosis, Sinus; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Nervous System; Young Adult
PubMed: 35236371
DOI: 10.1186/s13023-022-02220-0 -
Cureus May 2021Clinicians have learnt valuable lessons throughout the COV-SARS-2 pandemic, many of which have produced solutions that we aim to continue to implement within the... (Review)
Review
Clinicians have learnt valuable lessons throughout the COV-SARS-2 pandemic, many of which have produced solutions that we aim to continue to implement within the foreseeable future. Optimising patients' surgical pathways to reduce the length of stay and complications is an area of particular importance, both for maximal utilisation of available resources and for reduction of the exposure of inpatient and elective patients to an increased risk of infection within healthcare facilities. The aim of this review was to investigate the possible implications of using low-pressure laparoscopic gynaecological surgery versus standard- or high-pressure pneumoperitoneum surgeries. The primary outcome was postoperative pain, with secondary outcomes including duration of surgery, length of inpatient stay and rate of complications. MEDLINE, Embase and Cochrane CENTRAL were searched from inception to December 2020. We searched for published randomised control trials comparing low-pressure laparoscopic surgery (≤8 mmHg) to at least one additional standardised pneumoperitoneum pressure (≥12 mmHg and/or ≥15 mmHg). A total of 203 studies were reviewed, five of which were included in this analysis. Studies comparing low-pressure laparoscopic surgery against gasless abdominal cavities were excluded. The meta-analysis of the results was pooled and calculated within RevMan 5.0 software (Cochrane, London, England). Studies using a visual analogue scale (1-10) to compare low versus standard pneumoperitoneum pressures did not display a significant diminution of postoperative pain at ≤ 6 or 24 hours: -0.30 [95% CI -0.63, 0.03] and -0.66 [95% CI -1.35, 0.02], respectively. Studies additionally demonstrated worse visualisation of the surgical field within the low-pressure group (risk ratio 10.31; 95% CI, 1.29-82.38 I = 0%). Studies measuring postoperative pain using a numerical rating scale displayed significant pain reduction at all hours measured (p ≤ 0.01). The rate of intraoperative complications was 1% for all groups measured. Cumulative analysis of the duration of surgery did not differ significantly between groups (p = 0.99). The pandemic has revealed new issues that must be addressed by clinicians to promote the safety of patients and the efficiency of inpatient stay. This review has paved the way for new possibilities and innovative approaches to address the issue of optimising patient surgical pathways; however, at present, we cannot give a firm justification for the use of low-pressure gynaecological laparoscopy. Reasons for this include the minimal reduction in pain scores between low, standard and high pneumoperitoneum pressures, leading to a mixture of statistically significant results, as well as a reduction in the visualisation of the surgical field and the small population sizes in the reviewed papers. Additional research is required to further explore the potential clinical benefits of gynaecological laparoscopy to ensure its effective ambulatory use within mainstream surgical operations.
PubMed: 34235025
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.15348 -
BMC Neurology Jul 2021Transsphenoidal surgery is the gold standard for pituitary adenoma resection. Although rare, a serious complication of surgery is worsened vision post-operatively.
BACKGROUND
Transsphenoidal surgery is the gold standard for pituitary adenoma resection. Although rare, a serious complication of surgery is worsened vision post-operatively.
OBJECTIVE
To determine whether, in patients undergoing transsphenoidal surgery for pituitary adenoma, intraoperative monitoring of visual evoked potentials (VEP) is a safe, reproducible, and effective technological adjunct in predicting postoperative visual function.
METHODS
The PubMed and OVID platforms were searched between January 1993 and December 2020 to identify publications that (1) featured patients undergoing transsphenoidal surgery for pituitary adenoma, (2) used intraoperative optic nerve monitoring with VEP and (3) reported on safety or effectiveness. Reference lists were cross-checked and expert opinion sought to identify further publications.
RESULTS
Eleven studies were included comprising ten case series and one prospective cohort study. All employed techniques to improve reliability. No safety issues were reported. The only comparative study included described a statistically significant improvement in post-operative visual field testing when VEP monitoring was used. The remaining case-series varied in conclusion. In nine studies, surgical manipulation was halted in the event of a VEP amplitude decrease suggesting a widespread consensus that this is a warning sign of injury to the anterior optic apparatus.
CONCLUSIONS
Despite limited and low-quality published evidence regarding intra-operative VEP monitoring, our review suggests that it is a safe, reproducible, and increasingly effective technique of predicting postoperative visual deficits. Further studies specific to transsphenoidal surgery are required to determine its utility in protecting visual function in the resection of complex pituitary tumours.
Topics: Evoked Potentials, Visual; Humans; Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring; Pituitary Neoplasms; Prospective Studies; Reproducibility of Results; Treatment Outcome; Vision Disorders
PubMed: 34301198
DOI: 10.1186/s12883-021-02315-4