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European Journal of Medical Research Nov 2023From an initial pool of 2303 studies, ten eligible and potential studies were selected through rigor inclusion and exclusion criteria for this systematic review to... (Review)
Review
From an initial pool of 2303 studies, ten eligible and potential studies were selected through rigor inclusion and exclusion criteria for this systematic review to examine music therapy's effect on dementia. The review included 967 participants, with the majority being female. A significant number of studies were conducted in Taiwan. Although several cognitive ability assessment methods were employed in the selected studies, the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) was the most commonly used tool for evaluating the effects of music therapy on dementia. Overall, the current review demonstrates that music therapy can be a valuable strategy for treating patients with dementia, with its outcomes including improved cognitive function and potentially slowing the progression of the disease's severity. Therefore, this study can significantly contribute to future studies and practices aimed at using music therapy to treat dementia.
Topics: Humans; Female; Aged; Male; Music; Dementia; Music Therapy; Asia; Cognition
PubMed: 37990277
DOI: 10.1186/s40001-023-01355-5 -
Pflugers Archiv : European Journal of... Apr 2022Sensory neurons are responsible for the generation and transmission of nociceptive signals from the periphery to the central nervous system. They encompass a broadly... (Review)
Review
Sensory neurons are responsible for the generation and transmission of nociceptive signals from the periphery to the central nervous system. They encompass a broadly heterogeneous population of highly specialized neurons. The understanding of the molecular choreography of individual subpopulations is essential to understand physiological and pathological pain states. Recently, it became evident that species differences limit transferability of research findings between human and rodents in pain research. Thus, it is necessary to systematically compare and categorize the electrophysiological data gained from human and rodent dorsal root ganglia neurons (DRGs). In this systematic review, we condense the available electrophysiological data defining subidentities in human and rat DRGs. A systematic search on PUBMED yielded 30 studies on rat and 3 studies on human sensory neurons. Defined outcome parameters included current clamp, voltage clamp, cell morphology, pharmacological readouts, and immune reactivity parameters. We compare evidence gathered for outcome markers to define subgroups, offer electrophysiological parameters for the definition of neuronal subtypes, and give a framework for the transferability of electrophysiological findings between species. A semiquantitative analysis revealed that for rat DRGs, there is an overarching consensus between studies that C-fiber linked sensory neurons display a lower action potential threshold, higher input resistance, a larger action potential overshoot, and a longer afterhyperpolarization duration compared to other sensory neurons. They are also more likely to display an infliction point in the falling phase of the action potential. This systematic review points out the need of more electrophysiological studies on human sensory neurons.
Topics: Action Potentials; Animals; Electrophysiological Phenomena; Ganglia, Spinal; Humans; Pain; Rats; Sensory Receptor Cells
PubMed: 35031856
DOI: 10.1007/s00424-021-02656-6 -
Implementation Science : IS Apr 2015In 2004, Gabbay and le May showed that clinicians generally base their decisions on mindlines-internalised and collectively reinforced tacit guidelines-rather than... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
In 2004, Gabbay and le May showed that clinicians generally base their decisions on mindlines-internalised and collectively reinforced tacit guidelines-rather than consulting written clinical guidelines. We considered how the concept of mindlines has been taken forward since.
METHODS
We searched databases from 2004 to 2014 for the term 'mindline(s)' and tracked all sources citing Gabbay and le May's 2004 article. We read and re-read papers to gain familiarity and developed an interpretive analysis and taxonomy by drawing on the principles of meta-narrative systematic review.
RESULTS
In our synthesis of 340 papers, distinguished between authors who used mindlines purely in name ('nominal' view) sometimes dismissing them as a harmful phenomenon, and authors who appeared to have understood the term's philosophical foundations. The latter took an 'in-practice' view (studying how mindlines emerge and spread in real-world settings), a 'theoretical and philosophical' view (extending theory) or a 'solution focused' view (exploring how to promote and support mindline development). We found that it is not just clinicians who develop mindlines: so do patients, in face-to-face and (potentially) online communities. Theoretical publications on mindlines have continued to challenge the rationalist assumptions of evidence-based medicine (EBM). Conventional EBM assumes a single, knowable reality and seeks to strip away context to generate universal predictive rules. In contrast, mindlines are predicated on a more fluid, embodied and intersubjective view of knowledge; they accommodate context and acknowledge multiple realities. When considering how knowledge spreads, the concept of mindlines requires us to go beyond the constraining notions of 'dissemination' and 'translation' to study tacit knowledge and the interactive human processes by which such knowledge is created, enacted and shared. Solution-focused publications described mindline-promoting initiatives such as relationship-building, collaborative learning and thought leadership.
CONCLUSIONS
The concept of mindlines challenges the naïve rationalist view of knowledge implicit in some EBM publications, but the term appears to have been misunderstood (and prematurely dismissed) by some authors. By further studying mindlines empirically and theoretically, there is potential to expand EBM's conceptual toolkit to produce richer forms of 'evidence-based' knowledge. We outline a suggested research agenda for achieving this goal.
Topics: Decision Making; Guideline Adherence; Humans; Physicians; Practice Patterns, Physicians'
PubMed: 25890280
DOI: 10.1186/s13012-015-0229-x -
Cureus Dec 2023We aim to investigate the potential of laparoscopic ultrasonography (LUS) as a replacement for intraoperative cholangiography (IOC) in the context of laparoscopic... (Review)
Review
We aim to investigate the potential of laparoscopic ultrasonography (LUS) as a replacement for intraoperative cholangiography (IOC) in the context of laparoscopic cholecystectomy focusing on various aspects related to both techniques. We made our search through PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Scopus, with the use of the following search strategy: ("laparoscopic ultrasonography" OR LUS OR "laparoscopic US" OR "laparoscopic ultrasound") AND ("laparoscopic cholecystectomy" OR LC). We incorporated diverse studies that addressed our topic, offering data on the identification of biliary anatomy and variations, the utilization of laparoscopic ultrasound in cholecystitis, the detection of common bile duct stones, and the criteria utilized to assess the accuracy of LUS. A total of 1526 articles were screened and only 20 were finally included. This systematic review assessed LUS and IOC techniques in cholecystectomy. IOC showed higher failure rates due to common duct catheterization challenges, while LUS had lower failure rates, often linked to factors like steatosis. Cost-effectiveness comparisons favored LUS over IOC, potentially saving patients money. LUS procedures were quicker due to real-time imaging, while IOC required more time and personnel. Bile duct injuries were discussed, highlighting LUS limitations in atypical anatomies. LUS aided in diagnosing crucial conditions, emphasizing its relevance post surgery. Surgeon experience significantly impacted outcomes, regardless of the technique. A previous study discussed that LUS's learning curve was steeper than IOC's, with proficient LUS users adjusting practices and using IOC selectively. Highlighting LUS's benefits and limitations in cholecystectomy, we stress its value in complex anatomical situations. LUS confirms no common bile duct stones, avoiding cannulation. LUS and IOC equally detect common bile duct stones and visualize the biliary tree. LUS offers safety, speed, cost-effectiveness, and unlimited use. Despite the associated expenses and learning curve, the enduring benefits of using advanced probes in LUS imaging suggest that it could surpass traditional IOC. The validation of this potential advancement relies heavily on incorporating modern probe studies. Our study could contribute to the medical literature by evaluating their clinical validity, safety, cost-effectiveness, learning curve, patient outcomes, technological advancements, and potential impact on guidelines and recommendations for clinical professionals.
PubMed: 38283459
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.51192 -
Medicine Feb 2016Previous reviews have suggested that hospital volume is inversely related to in-hospital mortality. However, percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) practices have... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
Previous reviews have suggested that hospital volume is inversely related to in-hospital mortality. However, percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) practices have changed substantially in recent years, and whether this relationship persists remains controversial.A systematic search was performed using PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library to identify studies that describe the effect of hospital volume on the outcomes of PCI. Critical appraisals of the methodological quality and the risk of bias were conducted independently by 2 authors. Fourteen of 96 potentiality relevant articles were included in the analysis. Twelve of the articles described the relationship between hospital volume and mortality and included data regarding odds ratios (ORs); 3 studies described the relationship between hospital volume and long-term survival, and only 1 study included data regarding hazard ratios (HRs). A meta-analysis of postoperative mortality was performed using a random effects model, and the pooled effect estimate was significantly in favor of high volume providers (OR: 0.79; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.72-0.86; P < 0.001). A systematic review of long-term survival was performed, and a trend toward better long-term survival in high volume hospitals was observed.This meta-analysis only included studies published after 2006 and revealed that postoperative mortality following PCI correlates significantly and inversely with hospital volume. However, the magnitude of the effect of volume on long-term survival is difficult to assess. Additional research is necessary to confirm our findings and to elucidate the mechanism underlying the volume-outcome relationship.
Topics: Hospitals, High-Volume; Hospitals, Low-Volume; Humans; Percutaneous Coronary Intervention; Treatment Outcome
PubMed: 26844508
DOI: 10.1097/MD.0000000000002687 -
Annals of Physical and Rehabilitation... Jul 2018Although the rehabilitation of sexual function has been identified as a top priority among women presenting neurological conditions, sexual function is rarely assessed... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Although the rehabilitation of sexual function has been identified as a top priority among women presenting neurological conditions, sexual function is rarely assessed in this clinical group.
OBJECTIVES
To review published assessment tools of sexual dysfunction in women with neurological conditions including multiple sclerosis (MS), spinal cord injury (SCI), Parkinson disease, stroke, traumatic brain injury.
METHODS
A systematic literature review was conducted with Medline via PubMed, PubMed Central, and Medline databases.
RESULTS
There are three reliable methods to assess sexual dysfunctions in women with neurological conditions: physiological assessments of reflexes and perineal sensitivity testing, self-reporting questionnaires on sexual function and sexual satisfaction, and electrophysiological assessments. Physiological assessments of sacral and thoracolumbar reflexes have mainly been conducted among women with SCI. When performed, they reveal the existence of a psychogenic and/or reflex sexual potential in those women. Other forms of physiological assessments include vulvar sensitivity testing in women with SCI, quantitative sensory testing and pudendal somatosensory evoked potentials in MS populations. A few validated self-reporting measures are also available to assess sexual potential and sexual satisfaction, although mostly in women with SCI and MS.
CONCLUSION
Despite high prevalence rates and important clinical implications, sexual dysfunction is not systematically assessed in women presenting various neurological conditions. Several well-validated tools exist for such assessments, which could be used for sexual rehabilitation in these patients. The implementation of systematic assessments of sexual potential is feasible and renewed efforts should be made to do so in clinical practice.
Topics: Brain Injuries, Traumatic; Electrophysiological Phenomena; Female; Humans; Multiple Sclerosis; Nervous System Diseases; Parkinson Disease; Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological; Spinal Cord Injuries; Stroke; Surveys and Questionnaires
PubMed: 28713038
DOI: 10.1016/j.rehab.2017.04.004 -
Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences Aug 2012This systematic review summarizes and critically appraises the literature on the effect of erythropoietin (EPO) in schizophrenia patients and the pathophysiological... (Review)
Review
This systematic review summarizes and critically appraises the literature on the effect of erythropoietin (EPO) in schizophrenia patients and the pathophysiological mechanisms that may explain the potential of its use in this disease. EPO is mainly known for its regulatory activity in the synthesis of erythrocytes and is frequently used in treatment of chronic anemia. This cytokine, however, has many other properties, some of which may improve the symptoms of psychiatric illness. The review follows the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis (PRISMA) statement guidelines. Three databases (Medline, Web of Science, and Cochrane) were searched combining the search terms 'erythropoietin AND (psychotic disorders OR schizophrenia)'. Seventy-eight studies were included in qualitative synthesis, a meta-analytic approach being prohibited. The findings suggest that several EPO cerebral potential properties may be relevant for schizophrenia treatment, such as neurotransmission regulation, neuroprotection, modulation of inflammation, effects on blood-brain barrier permeability, effects on oxidative stress and neurogenesis. Several potentially detrimental side-effects of EPO therapy, such as increased risk of thrombosis, cancer, increased metabolic rate and mean arterial blood pressure leading to cerebral ischemia could severely limit or halt the use of EPO. Overall, because the available data are inconclusive, further efforts in this field are warranted.
Topics: Blood-Brain Barrier; Cognition Disorders; Erythropoietin; Humans; Inflammation; Neurogenesis; Neuroprotective Agents; Oxidative Stress; Schizophrenia
PubMed: 22725970
DOI: 10.1111/j.1440-1819.2012.02359.x -
Frontiers in Public Health 2023Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) are digital assets that are verified using blockchain technology to ensure authenticity and ownership. NFTs have the potential to...
INTRODUCTION
Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) are digital assets that are verified using blockchain technology to ensure authenticity and ownership. NFTs have the potential to revolutionize healthcare by addressing various issues in the industry.
METHOD
The goal of this study was to identify the applications of NFTs in healthcare. Our scoping review was conducted in 2023. We searched the Scopus, IEEE, PubMed, Web of Science, Science Direct, and Cochrane scientific databases using related keywords. The article selection process was based on Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA).
RESULTS
After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of 13 articles were chosen. Then extracted data was summarized and reported. The most common application of NFTs in healthcare was found to be in health data management with 46% frequency, followed by supply chain management with 31% frequency. Furthermore, Ethereum is the main blockchain platform that is applied in NFTs in healthcare with 70%.
DISCUSSION
The findings from this review indicate that the NFTs that are currently used in healthcare could transform it. Also, it appears that researchers have not yet investigated the numerous potentials uses of NFTs in the healthcare field, which could be utilized in the future.
Topics: Humans; Data Management; Databases, Factual; Industry; Research Personnel; Technology
PubMed: 38074727
DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1266385 -
Annals of Behavioral Medicine : a... Sep 2023To end the HIV epidemic, we need to better understand how to address HIV-related stigmas in healthcare settings, specifically the common theoretical bases across...
A Systematic Review of Intervention Studies That Address HIV-Related Stigmas Among US Healthcare Workers and Health Systems: Applying a Theory-Based Ontology to Link Intervention Types, Techniques, and Mechanisms of Action to Potential Effectiveness.
BACKGROUND
To end the HIV epidemic, we need to better understand how to address HIV-related stigmas in healthcare settings, specifically the common theoretical bases across interventions so that we can generalize about their potential effectiveness.
PURPOSE
We describe theory-based components of stigma interventions by identifying their functions/types, techniques, and purported mechanisms of change.
METHODS
This systematic review examined studies published by April 2021. We applied a transtheoretical ontology developed by the Human Behaviour Change Project, consisting of 9 intervention types (ITs), 93 behavior change techniques (BCTs), and 26 mechanisms of action (MOAs). We coded the frequency and calculated the potential effectiveness of each IT, BCT, and MOA. We evaluated study quality with a 10-item adapted tool.
RESULTS
Among the nine highest quality studies, indicated by the use of an experimental design, the highest potentially effective IT was "Persuasion" (i.e. using communication to induce emotions and/or stimulate action; 66.7%, 4/6 studies). The highest potentially effective BCTs were "Behavioral practice/rehearsal" (i.e. to increase habit and skill) and "Salience of consequences" (i.e. to make consequences of behavior more memorable; each 100%, 3/3 studies). The highest potentially effective MOAs were "Knowledge" (i.e. awareness) and "Beliefs about capabilities" (i.e. self-efficacy; each 67%, 2/3 studies).
CONCLUSIONS
By applying a behavior change ontology across studies, we synthesized theory-based findings on stigma interventions. Interventions typically combined more than one IT, BCT, and MOA. Practitioners and researchers can use our findings to better understand and select theory-based components of interventions, including areas for further evaluation, to expedite ending the HIV epidemic.
Topics: Humans; Behavior Therapy; Learning; Communication; Health Personnel; HIV Infections
PubMed: 37318287
DOI: 10.1093/abm/kaad022 -
Nicotine & Tobacco Research : Official... Mar 2022A joint meeting was held by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Convention Secretariat of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control to examine the...
INTRODUCTION
A joint meeting was held by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Convention Secretariat of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control to examine the potential effects of a regulatory policy to reduce nicotine in cigarettes to minimally addictive levels. This paper reviews the feasibility of and approaches to implementing a nicotine product standard.
METHODS
Prior WHO reports on this topic were consulted and a systematic review of the scientific literature was conducted. The paper was reviewed by the participants at the aforementioned meeting and their feedback was incorporated.
RESULTS
The nicotine dose most likely to consistently reduce smoking behavior and dependence is ≤0.4 mg nicotine/g tobacco. An immediate rather than a gradual nicotine reduction approach appears to be more beneficial. Smokers are likely to seek nicotine from alternate sources (e.g., nicotine replacement therapies, e-cigarettes) or potentially, the illegal market. As such, the availability of alternative products, as well as strong policies against illegal markets, can potentially mitigate unintended consequences. An effectively reduced nicotine regulation must be imbedded in a comprehensive and strong tobacco control program that includes public education and surveillance. Barriers and challenges to implementing a nicotine product standard exist, particularly in low-capacity countries.
CONCLUSIONS
Not all countries will have the capacity to implement a regulation to reduce nicotine in cigarettes (and preferably other combusted tobacco products) to minimally addictive levels. However, for the countries that choose to implement it, such a policy could potentially dramatically reduce the burden of tobacco use.
IMPLICATIONS FOR TOBACCO REGULATORY SCIENCE
Article 9 of the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control provides signatory governments the authority to implement a product standard for reducing nicotine in tobacco products to minimally addictive levels. This product standard has the potential to result in a dramatic reduction in cigarette and other combusted tobacco use and therefore, smoking-caused mortality and morbidity. This article describes the growing scientific evidence to support nicotine regulation in cigarettes, potential regulatory approaches and describes the infrastructure and tobacco control policies needed to implement a reduced nicotine product standard.
Topics: Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems; Humans; Nicotine; Smoking Cessation; Tobacco Products; Tobacco Use Cessation Devices
PubMed: 34192324
DOI: 10.1093/ntr/ntab138