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The Role of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors in Cancer Therapy
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The Importance of Psychometric and Physical Scales for the Evaluation of the Consequences of Scars—A Literature Review
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Telemedicine, E-Health, and Multi-Agent Systems for Chronic Pain Management
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Carcinogenic Effects of Areca Nut and Its Metabolites: A Review of the Experimental Evidence
Journal Description
Clinics and Practice
Clinics and Practice
is an international, scientific, peer-reviewed, open access journal on clinical medicine, published bimonthly online by MDPI (from Volume 11, Issue 1 - 2021).
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, ESCI (Web of Science), PubMed, PMC, Embase, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Medicine, General and Internal) / CiteScore - Q2 (General Medicine)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 23.7 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 3.9 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the first half of 2024).
- Recognition of Reviewers: APC discount vouchers, optional signed peer review, and reviewer names published annually in the journal.
Impact Factor:
1.7 (2023);
5-Year Impact Factor:
1.6 (2023)
Latest Articles
Investigation of Social Constraints, Psychosocial Adjustment and Optimism among Dialysis Patients
Clin. Pract. 2024, 14(4), 1430-1439; https://doi.org/10.3390/clinpract14040115 - 19 Jul 2024
Abstract
Background: Social constraints are perceived as unsupportive behaviors, leading to inadequate psychosocial adjustment, while optimism can help people recover from distress and reduce any negative effects of chronic disease. The aim of this study was to investigate social constraints, psychosocial adjustment and optimism
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Background: Social constraints are perceived as unsupportive behaviors, leading to inadequate psychosocial adjustment, while optimism can help people recover from distress and reduce any negative effects of chronic disease. The aim of this study was to investigate social constraints, psychosocial adjustment and optimism among patients on dialysis. Methods: In this study, 402 patients undergoing dialysis in Greece completed the following questionnaires: (i) the Social Constraints Scale (SCS) for the assessment of social constrains, (ii) the Psychosocial adjustment to illness scale (PAIS-SR) for the assessment of psychosocial adjustment, and (iii) the LOT-R scale for the assessment of optimism. A Mann–Whitney test was used for the comparison of continuous variables between two groups. Spearman correlation coefficients (rho) were used to explore the association of two continuous variables. Multiple linear regression analysis was used with the SCS scale. Results: Greater difficulty in psychosocial adjustment in the domestic, vocational, extended family and social environments, sexual relationships, and health care as well as greater psychological distress were significantly associated with a greater occurrence of social constraints (p < 0.001). Additionally, greater optimism was significantly associated with fewer social constraints and lower difficulty in adjusting to their disease (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Greater difficulty in all dimensions of psychosocial adjustment is associated with more social constraints, while optimism is associated with fewer social constraints and better disease adjustment.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
The Prevalence of ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction in Patients Presenting in the Emergency Service of Galati Hospital from 2015 to 2019
by
Liliana Dragomir, Virginia Marina, Aurelian-Dumitrache Anghele, Mihaela Anghele and Cosmina-Alina Moscu
Clin. Pract. 2024, 14(4), 1417-1429; https://doi.org/10.3390/clinpract14040114 - 16 Jul 2024
Abstract
Background and Objectives: The purpose of this study is to determine the prevalence of cardiovascular emergencies and the relationships between these emergencies and the personal medical histories of patients. Materials and Methods: This study is retrospective, observational, and longitudinal, spanning five years from
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Background and Objectives: The purpose of this study is to determine the prevalence of cardiovascular emergencies and the relationships between these emergencies and the personal medical histories of patients. Materials and Methods: This study is retrospective, observational, and longitudinal, spanning five years from 1 January 2015 to 31 December 2019. Descriptive elements were observed and recorded to conduct statistical analysis on the cardiovascular characteristics of 723 patients transported by air and treated at the Emergency County Hospital of Galati, Romania. Results: Cardiovascular disease is a complex condition that often originates in the heart and presents with a variety of symptoms. Deaths related to cardiovascular diseases outnumber cancer-related deaths in both men and women worldwide. The one-year mortality rate for patients admitted to the hospital with acute pulmonary edema can be as high as 40%. Coronary heart disease is the leading cause of death and disability in the Western world and globally. Conclusions: The highest prevalence of cardiovascular diseases was noted in 2016, particularly among elderly men, who appear to be more affected by these conditions, while liver disease was minimal. In our study, the most prevalent cardiovascular disease was ST-elevation myocardial infarction. Gender plays a role in the risk of cardiovascular emergencies, with men being at a higher risk of developing life-threatening conditions. Additionally, there is a linear increase in risk with age for developing these pathologies.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
Evaluating Aspirin’s Efficacy for Primary Prevention in Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Disease: Insights from a Nationwide Cohort Study
by
Ki-Hong Kim, Inseok Ko, Jong-Yeup Kim and Dong-Kyu Kim
Clin. Pract. 2024, 14(4), 1404-1416; https://doi.org/10.3390/clinpract14040113 - 15 Jul 2024
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The effectiveness of aspirin for the primary prevention of cerebro-cardiovascular diseases in Koreans remains unclear. Therefore, we evaluated the preventive effects of low-dose aspirin (equal or less than 100 mg) on cerebro-cardiovascular events. We conducted a retrospective cohort study using the National Sample
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The effectiveness of aspirin for the primary prevention of cerebro-cardiovascular diseases in Koreans remains unclear. Therefore, we evaluated the preventive effects of low-dose aspirin (equal or less than 100 mg) on cerebro-cardiovascular events. We conducted a retrospective cohort study using the National Sample Cohort dataset. From the 1,106,580 individuals eligible in 2004, we selected 200 individuals (47% male and 22.5% aged 65 or older) who consistently received low-dose aspirin from 2004 to 2013 for inclusion in the aspirin cohort. Participants for the control cohort, who did not use aspirin, were selected through propensity score matching based on variables. We compared the incidences of endpoints (acute myocardial infarction, cerebral infarction, gastrointestinal hemorrhage, and cerebral hemorrhage) between the aspirin group and the non-aspirin group over the 9-year follow-up period. There was no significant difference in the incidence rates of acute myocardial infarction, cerebral infarction, gastrointestinal hemorrhage, or cerebral hemorrhage between the aspirin and non-aspirin groups. Low-dose aspirin for primary prevention in Koreans did not reduce myocardial or cerebral infarctions and did not increase the risk of gastrointestinal or cerebral hemorrhage. Therefore, we suggest that aspirin for primary prevention should be used cautiously and tailored to the individual’s baseline cardiovascular risk.
Full article
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Open AccessReview
Integrating Artificial Intelligence into Biomedical Science Curricula: Advancing Healthcare Education
by
Aarti Sharma, Amal Al-Haidose, Maha Al-Asmakh and Atiyeh M. Abdallah
Clin. Pract. 2024, 14(4), 1391-1403; https://doi.org/10.3390/clinpract14040112 - 11 Jul 2024
Abstract
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into healthcare practice has improved patient management and care. Many clinical laboratory specialties have already integrated AI in diagnostic specialties such as radiology and pathology, where it can assist in image analysis, diagnosis, and clinical reporting. As
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The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into healthcare practice has improved patient management and care. Many clinical laboratory specialties have already integrated AI in diagnostic specialties such as radiology and pathology, where it can assist in image analysis, diagnosis, and clinical reporting. As AI technologies continue to advance, it is crucial for biomedical science students to receive comprehensive education and training in AI concepts and applications and to understand the ethical consequences for such development. This review focus on the importance of integrating AI into biomedical science curricula and proposes strategies to enhance curricula for different specialties to prepare future healthcare workers. Improving the curriculum can be achieved by introducing specific subjects related to AI such as informatics, data sciences, and digital health. However, there are many challenges to enhancing the curriculum with AI. In this narrative review, we discuss these challenges and suggest mitigation strategies.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Practice of Artificial Intelligence in Diagnostic and Treatment Assistance)
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Open AccessArticle
Comparisons of Audiologic Characteristics in Patients with Continuous and Intermittent Tinnitus
by
Seok Hwan Chung, Sung Soo Kim, Sang Hoon Kim and Seung Geun Yeo
Clin. Pract. 2024, 14(4), 1383-1390; https://doi.org/10.3390/clinpract14040111 - 11 Jul 2024
Abstract
Background: No studies to date have compared audiologic characteristics in patients with continuous and intermittent tinnitus. The present study classified tinnitus patients into continuous and intermittent groups based on tinnitus duration and compared their audiologic characteristics. Methods: This study enrolled 604 patients with
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Background: No studies to date have compared audiologic characteristics in patients with continuous and intermittent tinnitus. The present study classified tinnitus patients into continuous and intermittent groups based on tinnitus duration and compared their audiologic characteristics. Methods: This study enrolled 604 patients with tinnitus from January 2019 to December 2022. Clinical manifestations, PTA results, the frequency and loudness of tinnitus, ABR, DPOAE, and TEOAE tests were compared in patients with continuous and intermittent tinnitus. Results: Of the 604 patients, 231 (38.2%) had continuous and 373 (61.8%) had intermittent tinnitus. There were no significant between-group differences in otologic symptoms, tinnitus onomatopoeia. PTA showed that hearing thresholds, except at 125 Hz, were significantly higher in patients with continuous rather than intermittent tinnitus. The loudness of tinnitus was significantly greater in patients with continuous rather than intermittent tinnitus. ABR tests showed that the absolute latency of wave V was significantly longer in continuous than in intermittent tinnitus. Signal-to-noise ratios on TEOAE tests were significantly lower in patients with continuous rather than intermittent tinnitus at all frequencies tested (1, 1.5, 2, 3, and 4 kHz). Response rates to sound stimuli at all frequencies, except for 1 kHz, were significantly lower on DPOAE tests in patients with continuous rather than intermittent tinnitus. Conclusions: Continuous tinnitus is more common in males, more persistent over time, and is associated with a higher rate of hearing loss. In contrast, intermittent tinnitus is more common in women, appears acutely, and is associated with a relatively lower rate of hearing loss. Based on the findings of the current paper, it seems that audiologic characteristics may differ between patients with continuous and intermittent tinnitus.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
Investigating the Relationship between Chronic Liver Cirrhosis and Parkinsonism: A Comparative Analysis and a Suggested Diagnostic Scheme
by
Tal Sigawi, Omer Hamtzany, Noa Hurvitz, Yuval Ishay, Roy Dayan, David Arkadir and Yaron Ilan
Clin. Pract. 2024, 14(4), 1375-1382; https://doi.org/10.3390/clinpract14040110 - 11 Jul 2024
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Aim: Neurological manifestations are common in patients with chronic liver diseases. This study aimed to depict the association between liver cirrhosis and Parkinson’s disease (PD) and propose a clinically relevant diagnostic scheme. Methods: We examined patients’ medical records with PD and chronic
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Aim: Neurological manifestations are common in patients with chronic liver diseases. This study aimed to depict the association between liver cirrhosis and Parkinson’s disease (PD) and propose a clinically relevant diagnostic scheme. Methods: We examined patients’ medical records with PD and chronic liver impairment secondary to cirrhosis or liver metastases for temporal correlations between liver insult and Parkinsonian signs. Results: Thirty-five individuals with PD and chronic liver impairment were included due to either cirrhosis or liver metastases. In all 22 patients with PD and liver metastases, the diagnosis of PD preceded the diagnosis of cancer. Conversely, patients with cirrhosis were often diagnosed with liver impairment before diagnosing PD. Age at diagnosis did not account for this difference. Conclusions: This study reinforces the potential clinical association between cirrhosis and PD. We also provide a diagnostic scheme that may guide therapeutic interventions and prognostic assessments.
Full article
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Open AccessReview
Transforming Healthcare: The AI Revolution in the Comprehensive Care of Hypertension
by
Sreyoshi F. Alam and Maria L. Gonzalez Suarez
Clin. Pract. 2024, 14(4), 1357-1374; https://doi.org/10.3390/clinpract14040109 - 10 Jul 2024
Abstract
This review explores the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in hypertension care, summarizing and analyzing published works from the last three years in this field. Hypertension contributes to a significant healthcare burden both at an individual and global level. We focus on
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This review explores the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in hypertension care, summarizing and analyzing published works from the last three years in this field. Hypertension contributes to a significant healthcare burden both at an individual and global level. We focus on five key areas: risk prediction, diagnosis, education, monitoring, and management of hypertension, supplemented with a brief look into the works on hypertensive disease of pregnancy. For each area, we discuss the advantages and disadvantages of integrating AI. While AI, in its current rudimentary form, cannot replace sound clinical judgment, it can still enhance faster diagnosis, education, prevention, and management. The integration of AI in healthcare is poised to revolutionize hypertension care, although careful implementation and ongoing research are essential to mitigate risks.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Practice of Artificial Intelligence in Diagnostic and Treatment Assistance)
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Open AccessArticle
Assessment of 2′-Fucosyllactose and Lacto-N-Neotetraose Solution as an Irrigant in E. faecalis-Infected Root Canals: An In Vitro Study
by
Francesco Puleio, Rosario Pirri, Vincenzo Tosco, Angelo Sergio Lizio, Paola Tripodi, Isabella La Spina, Vincenza La Fauci and Raffaele Squeri
Clin. Pract. 2024, 14(4), 1348-1356; https://doi.org/10.3390/clinpract14040108 - 10 Jul 2024
Abstract
Background: Given the lack of an ideal endodontic irrigant on the market, this study evaluates the antimicrobial potential of a formulated solution of 2′-fucosyllactose and lacto-N-neotetraose against E. faecalis within infected root canals, and explores any associated impacts related to the duration of
[...] Read more.
Background: Given the lack of an ideal endodontic irrigant on the market, this study evaluates the antimicrobial potential of a formulated solution of 2′-fucosyllactose and lacto-N-neotetraose against E. faecalis within infected root canals, and explores any associated impacts related to the duration of irrigation. Methods: 32 single-rooted teeth extracted for periodontal reasons were infected with Enterococcus faecalis, and subsequently subjected to endodontic treatment with two different irrigation systems: sodium hypochlorite or a solution of 2′-fucosyllactose and lacto-N-neotetraose. These samples were then incubated in sterile culture media at 37 °C to observe microbial activity through turbidity. The culture broth of each individual sample was assessed as positive or negative by observing the turbidity or lack of turbidity in the culture at the time of evaluation. Results: the analysis of the results obtained from the comparison of groups irrigated with sodium hypochlorite or a solution of 2′-fucosyllactose and lacto-N-neotetraose demonstrates that the case solution has no bactericidal effect against E. faecalis inoculated in the endodontic system. Conclusions: the HMOs used in this study do not have a bactericidal effect on E. faecalis inoculated in an endodontic system.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Trends, Materials, and Technologies and Consolidating Best Practices in Dentistry)
Open AccessReview
Inquiry of the Metabolic Traits in Relationship with Daily Magnesium Intake: Focus on Type 2 Diabetic Population
by
Ana-Maria Gheorghe, Mihai-Lucian Ciobica, Claudiu Nistor, Maria-Magdalena Gurzun, Bianca-Andreea Sandulescu, Mihaela Stanciu, Florina Ligia Popa and Mara Carsote
Clin. Pract. 2024, 14(4), 1319-1347; https://doi.org/10.3390/clinpract14040107 - 8 Jul 2024
Abstract
Magnesium (Mg), an essential nutrient with a wide area of physiological roles, stands as a cofactor in over 600 enzymatic reactions involved in the synthesis of proteins and nucleic acids, DNA repair, neuromuscular functions, neuronal transmission, cardiac rhythm regulation, and the modulation of
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Magnesium (Mg), an essential nutrient with a wide area of physiological roles, stands as a cofactor in over 600 enzymatic reactions involved in the synthesis of proteins and nucleic acids, DNA repair, neuromuscular functions, neuronal transmission, cardiac rhythm regulation, and the modulation of metabolic pathways, as well as acting as a natural blocker for the calcium channels. Our objective was to highlight the most recent clinical data with respect to daily Mg intake (DMI) and metabolic traits, particularly type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). This was a PubMed-based review of the English-language medical papers across different key terms of search; the time frame was from January 2019 until April 2024. We included (clinically relevant) original studies and excluded cases reports, series, reviews, editorials, opinion, experimental studies, and non-human data as well as studies that did not specifically assessed DMI and only provided assays of serum Mg, studies on patients diagnosed with type 1 or secondary DM. A total of 30 studies were included and we organized the key findings into several sections as follows. Studies investigating DMI in relationship with the adherence to local recommendations in diabetic subjects (n = 2, one transversal and another retrospective cohort; N = 2823) found that most of them had lower DMI. Deficient DMI was correlated with the risk of developing/having DM across five studies (n = 5, one prospective and four of cross-sectional design; N = 47,166). An inverse correlation between DMI and DM prevalence was identified, but these data are presented amid a rather heterogeneous spectrum. Four novel studies (N = 7279) analysed the relationship between DMI and DM control according to various methods (HbA1c, fasting and postprandial glycaemia, and insulin); the association may be linear in diabetic subjects only at certain levels of DMI; additionally, the multifactorial influence on HBA1c should take into consideration this dietary determinant, as well, but there are no homogenous results. Three studies concerning DMI and diabetic complications (one cross-sectional, one prospective, and another case–control study) in terms of retinopathy (n = 1, N = 3794) and nephropathy (n = 2, N = 4805) suggested a lower DMI was associated with a higher risk of such complications. Additionally, two other studies (one prospective and one retrospective cohort) focused on mortality (N = 6744), which, taking only certain mortality indicators into consideration, might be decreased in the subgroups with a higher DMI. Seven studies (N = 30,610) analysed the perspective of DMI in the general population with the endpoint of different features amid glucose profile, particularly, insulin resistance. Concerning HOMA-IR, there were three confirmatory studies and one non-confirmatory, while fasting plasma glucose was highlighted as inversely correlated with a DMI (n = 1). The highest level of evidence regarding Mg supplementation effects on glucose metabolism stands on seven randomised controlled trials (N = 350). However, the sample size was reduced (from 14 to 86 individuals per study, either diabetic or pre-diabetic) and outcomes were rather discordant. These clinical aspects are essential from a multidisciplinary perspective and further trials are mandatory to address the current areas of discordant results.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Nutrition in Metabolic Disorders)
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Open AccessCase Report
A Non-Secreting Pituitary Adenoma That Changed to a Prolactinoma
by
Cristina Santiago-Vazquez, Nuria Palacios-Paino and Fernando Cordido
Clin. Pract. 2024, 14(4), 1310-1318; https://doi.org/10.3390/clinpract14040106 - 4 Jul 2024
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Pituitary adenomas (PAs) are the third most common brain tumors in adults right after meningiomas and gliomas. Taking into account their hormonal activity in vivo, they can be divided in functioning PAs, which secrete hormones, and nonfunctioning pituitary adenomas (NFPAs), which are not
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Pituitary adenomas (PAs) are the third most common brain tumors in adults right after meningiomas and gliomas. Taking into account their hormonal activity in vivo, they can be divided in functioning PAs, which secrete hormones, and nonfunctioning pituitary adenomas (NFPAs), which are not associated with increased hormone secretion. We present the case of a man diagnosed with pituitary apoplexy. A transsphenoidal surgery was performed with subtotal removal of the mass. Pituitary hormones were measured before and after the procedure on several occasions, showing always normal PRL values, so he was diagnosed with a clinically NFPA. Two years later, the patient noticed a visual deficit. A new magnetic resonance imaging study was performed, showing adenomatous recurrence, and the patient underwent a new surgery. After this, hormonal evaluation revealed high levels of PRL on several occasions. After treatment with cabergoline was started, PRL levels normalized, the visual deficit improved, and there was a slight adenoma reduction. This case report represents an exception to the paradigm that in the presence of a macroadenoma and normal PRL levels (avoiding the “hook effect”), a prolactinoma can be discarded. Moreover, it stresses the importance of comprehensive, regular, and lifelong surveillance of patients with NFPAs and the close monitoring of serum PRL.
Full article
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Open AccessSystematic Review
The Effectiveness of No or Low-Dose versus High-Dose Aspirin in Treating Acute Kawasaki Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
by
Fatemah M. Safar, Waleed M. Kaabi, Reem S. Aljudaibi, Lama M. Alsaidi, Sarah S. Alharbi, Areen Y. Ibrahim, Haneen A. Alghamdi, Noura O. Alshami, Nora M. Alzoum, Amani Y. Alfaya and Fatema R. Alrashed
Clin. Pract. 2024, 14(4), 1296-1309; https://doi.org/10.3390/clinpract14040105 - 3 Jul 2024
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This systematic review and meta-analysis assesses the effectiveness of no or low-dose versus high-dose aspirin on the incidence of coronary artery aneurysms (CAAs), intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) resistance, hospital stay length, and fever duration during the acute phase of Kawasaki disease. Our review adheres
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This systematic review and meta-analysis assesses the effectiveness of no or low-dose versus high-dose aspirin on the incidence of coronary artery aneurysms (CAAs), intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) resistance, hospital stay length, and fever duration during the acute phase of Kawasaki disease. Our review adheres to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews guidelines. The PubMed and Google Scholar databases were comprehensively searched to identify relevant studies in the literature, including observational studies and randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The primary outcome was the incidence of CAAs. The secondary outcomes were the hospital stay length, fever duration, and IVIG resistance. The risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa scale for cohort studies and Cochrane’s Risk of Bias Tool for RCTs. The data were analyzed using the Review Manager software. Twelve studies with a total of 68,495 participants met the inclusion criteria. The incidences of CAAs (odds ratio [OR] = 0.93; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.64–1.34) and IVIG resistance (OR = 1.46; 95% CI = 1.00–2.12) did not differ significantly between no or low-dose versus high-dose aspirin in treating acute KD. Moreover, the fever durations (mean difference [MD] = 3.55 h; 95% CI = −7.99–15.10) and hospital stay lengths (MD = −0.54 days; 95% CI = −2.50–1.41) were similar in the no and low-dose aspirin group compared to the high-dose aspirin group. Our review indicates that there are no significant differences in the incidences of CAA and IVIG resistance, fever durations, and hospital stay lengths between no or low-dose versus high-dose aspirin in treating the acute phase of KD.
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Figure 5
19,20,21,23,24,25,26,27,28,29,30]. The box in the middle of each horizontal line (95% CI) represents the point estimate of the effect for a single study and the size of the box is proportional to the weight of the study. The diamond represents the overall pooled effect of the meta-analysis, and the width of the diamond shows the 95% CI for the overall effect. The vertical line represents the line of no effect, which corresponds to the value of OR = 1.
Full article
">19,21,23,25,27,28,29]. The box in the middle of each horizontal line (95% CI) represents the point estimate of the effect for a single study and the size of the box is proportional to the weight of the study. The diamond represents the overall pooled effect of the meta-analysis, and the width of the diamond shows the 95% CI for the overall effect. The vertical line represents the line of no effect, which corresponds to the value of OR = 1.
Full article
">25,26,27,29,30]. The box in the middle of each horizontal line (95% CI) represents the point estimate of the effect for a single study and the size of the box is proportional to the weight of the study. The diamond represents the overall pooled effect of the meta-analysis, and the width of the diamond shows the 95% CI for the overall effect. The vertical line represents the line of no effect, which corresponds to the value of MD = 0.
Full article
">26,28]. The box in the middle of each horizontal line (95% CI) represents the point estimate of the effect for a single study and the size of the box is proportional to the weight of the study. The diamond represents the overall pooled effect of the meta-analysis, and the width of the diamond shows the 95% CI for the overall effect. The vertical line represents the line of no effect, which corresponds to the value of MD = 0.
Full article
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Open AccessArticle
Knowledge and Beliefs about Clinical Trials among Adults in Poland: A Cross-Sectional Study
by
Natalia Cięszczyk, Marcin Czech, Łukasz Pronicki and Mariusz Gujski
Clin. Pract. 2024, 14(4), 1285-1295; https://doi.org/10.3390/clinpract14040104 - 2 Jul 2024
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Clinical trials, by contributing to the development of diagnostics and to the search for modern, more effective, and safer therapies, have become one of the most important elements of the healthcare system. They enable the introduction of innovative drugs and treatments that can
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Clinical trials, by contributing to the development of diagnostics and to the search for modern, more effective, and safer therapies, have become one of the most important elements of the healthcare system. They enable the introduction of innovative drugs and treatments that can significantly improve patients’ quality of life. Not only does this research help to understand disease mechanisms, but it also enables the personalization of therapy, which often increases the effectiveness of treatment. Public awareness of clinical trials helps build trust in science and medicine, which is fundamental to the effective functioning of the healthcare system. The aim of this study was to assess Poles’ knowledge and beliefs about clinical trials. Methods: The survey was conducted among Poles aged 18 and over with the help of an external company, Ariadna, which is an independent research panel. The questionnaire contained 22 questions, of which 13 questions concerned beliefs and attitudes towards clinical trials. Results: One thousand and seventy-nine participants took part in the study (n = 1079). The mean age of respondents was 44.96 years (SD = 16.30). Slightly more women (n = 568, 52.6%) than men (n = 511, 47.4%) took part in the study. Among the respondents, 86.5% (n = 933) were aware of clinical trials. The main sources of information about clinical trials were the media (53.8%) including the Internet (n = 355, 32.9%), TV (n = 175, 16.2%), press (n = 30, 2.8%), and radio (n = 21, 1.9%). 43.2% (n = 466) of respondents reported little knowledge of clinical trials, while more than three quarters (n = 805, 75.2%) said they would like to learn more about clinical trials. Most respondents (n = 879, 81.4%) agreed with the statement that participation in a clinical trial is completely voluntary, and more than half (n = 580, 53.7%) agreed with the statement that hospitals participating in clinical trials provide better healthcare. The statement that the results of clinical trials are made available to the public was disagreed with by 37.2% (n = 402) of participants. Only 30.3% (n = 327) of participants agreed that clinical trials should be conducted with children. Most respondents (n = 638, 59.1%) agreed with the statement that a patient in a clinical trial is insured. 48.3% (n = 521) of participants are aware that a clinical trial can be withdrawn from at any time. Conclusions: Poles rate their knowledge of clinical trials as low and would like to learn more. Poles’ knowledge of clinical trials is mainly based on commercial sources.
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Open AccessArticle
Time-to-Treatment Delays and Their Prognostic Implications in Pharyngeal Cancer—An Exploratory Analysis in Western Romania
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Andreea Mihaela Kiș, Roxana Buzatu, Lazar Chisavu, Marioara Poenaru, Claudia Borza, Andrada Iftode, Oana Silvana Sarau, Cristina Adriana Dehelean and Simona Ardelean
Clin. Pract. 2024, 14(4), 1270-1284; https://doi.org/10.3390/clinpract14040103 - 29 Jun 2024
Abstract
Background: Diagnosis and treatment for pharyngeal cancer are decisive in determining prognosis. Diagnosis delays are frequent, representing a significant cause of avoidable mortality, and an important factor in subpar survival across the continuous HNC care delivery. Methods: The present study represents a retrospective
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Background: Diagnosis and treatment for pharyngeal cancer are decisive in determining prognosis. Diagnosis delays are frequent, representing a significant cause of avoidable mortality, and an important factor in subpar survival across the continuous HNC care delivery. Methods: The present study represents a retrospective analysis of medical records from Western Romania, which included 180 patients, to evaluate the impact of time-to-treatment delay on patients diagnosed with pharyngeal cancer. The data analyses were performed using the Kaplan–Meier method R (version 3.6.3) packages, including tidyverse, final-fit, mcgv, survival, stringdist, janitor, and Hmisc. Results: The mean days from diagnosis until the end of treatment were higher for the nasopharynx group. Cox regression analysis regarding diagnosis to treatment duration categories showed an increased risk mortality by 3.11 times (95%CI: 1.51–6.41, p = 0.0021) with a Harrell’s C-index of 0.638 (95%CI: 0.552–0.723). The hypopharynx and oropharynx locations increased risk mortality by 4.59 (95%CI: 1.55–13.55) and 5.49 times (95%CI: 1.79–16.81) compared to the nasopharynx location. Conclusions: The findings of this study led to the conclusion that it seems there is a trend of mortality risk for oropharynx and hypopharynx cancers due to delays in the time to treatment over 70 days, standing as a basis for further research as there is an imperative need for prospective multicenter studies.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Outcome Research in the Head and Neck)
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Open AccessCase Report
An Atypical Case of Extrapulmonary Sarcoidosis with Severe Hypercalcemia as Initial Presentation, Successfully Treated with Glucocorticoids
by
Sushmita Mittal, Karolina Pogorzelski, Christopher Huxel, Chokkalingam Siva and Deepthi Rao
Clin. Pract. 2024, 14(4), 1264-1269; https://doi.org/10.3390/clinpract14040102 - 29 Jun 2024
Abstract
Background: Sarcoidosis is a multisystemic disease that is histologically characterized by non-caseating granulomas in one or more organs. Although hypercalcemia is commonly seen in sarcoidosis, clinically significant hypercalcemia as the initial presentation of sarcoidosis is exceedingly rare. Long-standing hypercalcemia can lead to several
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Background: Sarcoidosis is a multisystemic disease that is histologically characterized by non-caseating granulomas in one or more organs. Although hypercalcemia is commonly seen in sarcoidosis, clinically significant hypercalcemia as the initial presentation of sarcoidosis is exceedingly rare. Long-standing hypercalcemia can lead to several complications and needs to be adequately managed to prevent irreversible damage. Currently, there are no standard treatment guidelines for sarcoidosis-induced hypercalcemia, although glucocorticoids have often been used as first-line therapy. Case Report: We describe a 55-year-old male patient who presented with dull right upper quadrant abdominal pain and a 30-pound weight loss over one month. He was found to have severe hypercalcemia, which was treated with intravenous (IV) normal saline and intramuscular calcitonin. Imaging studies revealed hypodense lesions throughout the bilateral hepatic lobes, spleen, and bilateral kidneys, with no pathologic mediastinal, hilar, supraclavicular, or axillary lymphadenopathy or pulmonary parenchymal disease. A splenic biopsy confirmed extrapulmonary sarcoidosis. After initial discharge, the patient was re-admitted weeks later for severe hypercalcemia, which was successfully treated with the initiation of prednisone. Conclusions: In this report, we present an atypical case of isolated extrapulmonary sarcoidosis with severe hypercalcemia as the initial presentation, successfully treated with steroids.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Rheumatic Disorder: From Basic Science to Clinical Practice)
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Open AccessArticle
The Impact of Thyroidectomy and Lobectomy on Patients’ Health-Related Quality of Life, Eastern Region, Saudi Arabia
by
Zainab Ali AlOsaif, Hassan Mohammed Al Bisher, Hend Abdelmonem Elshnawie and Mohammed Taha Al-Hariri
Clin. Pract. 2024, 14(4), 1251-1263; https://doi.org/10.3390/clinpract14040101 - 29 Jun 2024
Abstract
Introduction: The thyroid gland is a crucial endocrine organ that can be susceptible to various pathological conditions, often necessitating total thyroidectomy or lobectomy. It is a common surgical procedure in Saudi Arabia. Thus, it is essential to recognize the impact of thyroid surgery
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Introduction: The thyroid gland is a crucial endocrine organ that can be susceptible to various pathological conditions, often necessitating total thyroidectomy or lobectomy. It is a common surgical procedure in Saudi Arabia. Thus, it is essential to recognize the impact of thyroid surgery on patients’ health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate HRQoL among patients with benign and malignant thyroid diseases who underwent thyroidectomy in the eastern region of Saudi Arabia. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at King Fahad Hospital of University in Khobar, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia from January 2018 to May 2018. The data collection method used was divided into two parts. Part I included the patients’ socio-demographic characteristics and the clinical characteristics of their thyroid surgery. Part II was a HRQoL questionnaire (SF-36, version 1.0). Results: The sample included 100 thyroidectomy patients ≥18 years. The study findings revealed that the overall scores for post-thyroidectomy patients showed a significant improvement in HRQoL, and HRQoL was not significantly associated with benign or malignant thyroid diseases. Conclusion: Especially when the surgery is performed by a high-volume endocrine surgeon, thyroidectomy may lead to significant improvements in HRQoL among patients, including the elderly and younger adults, with benign and malignant thyroid disorders. There was no difference in HRQoL between patients who underwent total thyroidectomy or thyroid lobectomy. Also, HRQol among thyroidectomy patients is associated with their educational and occupational statuses.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Outcome Research in the Head and Neck)
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