Early Mobilization Decision after an Acute Ischemic Stroke: Protocol for an Umbrella Review

INTRODUCTION

Stroke is considered one of the greatest public health challenges worldwide, with the ischemic subtype being the most prevalent. Various acute stroke clinical guidelines recommend early rehabilitation interventions, including very early mobilization. However, despite the studies conducted in recent years regarding when to initiate mobilization after an acute stroke, there are few systematic and personalized protocols based on the factors for which patient mobilization should ideally be performed. We aim to conduct an umbrella review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses to study the early mobilization decision after an acute ischemic stroke in comparison with conventional care and correlate the different approaches with patient clinical outcomes.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

We will perform a systematic search on PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Epistemonikos and Web of Science Core Collection databases. Retrieved studies will be independently reviewed by two authors and any discrepancies will be resolved by consensus or with a third reviewer. Reviewers will extract the data and assess the risk of bias in the selected studies. We will use the 16-item Assessment of Multiple Systematic Reviews 2 (AMSTAR2) checklist as the critical appraisal tool to assess cumulative evidence and risk of bias of the different studies. This will be the first umbrella review that compares early mobilization approaches in post-acute ischemic stroke. This study may help to define the optimal early mobilization strategy in stroke patients. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42023430494.

Correction: Implementation of digital health in rural populations with chronic musculoskeletal conditions: A scoping review protocol

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0291638.].

[Evaluation of the Scientific Production in the Field of General Practice and Family Medicine in Portugal]

INTRODUCTION

The Portuguese publications in the field of General Practice and Family Medicine have not yet been assessed in bibliometric studies. The aim of this study was to analyze that production between 2012 and 2022.

METHODS

The Web of Science Core Collection was used to gather the number of articles, journals and citations obtained; the Journal Citation Reports to obtain the Impact Factor and quartile of journals; and Scimago Journal & Country Rank, for the comparison of data with other European countries. The search was based on the following query: "usf OR unidade de Saude Familiar OR centro de Saude OR ACeS OR medicina geral familiar OR Gen Practice Family SAME Portugal", and a time window between 2012 and 2022 was defined. The study considered the following quantitative indicators: total number of publications, typology, language, affiliation, co-authors, geographical distribution, thematic areas, and the number of publications/inhabitant and publications/physician from European countries; the qualitative indicators selected were the Impact Factor (IF), the quartile and the number of citations.

RESULTS

Between 2012 and 2022, the national scientific production had an average annual growth rate of 36.6%. Of 389 publications, 73.8% were 'Articles' and 11.8% were 'Review Articles', predominantly in English (88.4%). The fields of 'General Internal Medicine' (24.7%) and 'Public Environmental Health' (14.9%) had the highest publication rates among the journals. The 389 publications received 5354 citations, for an average of 13.76 citations per article, and the average yearly citation growth was 115%. According to IF, 22.5% of the 222 journals belonged to Q4, 27.5% to Q3, 29.7% to Q2 and 20.3% to Q1, and therefore no significant bias regarding the journals where Portuguese doctors publish was observed.

CONCLUSION

The bibliometric analysis allowed us to examine the evolution of the scientific production in the field of Portuguese General Practice and Family Medicine by observing an increasing publication trend and with a high potential for publication growth.

CTA and CTP for Detecting Distal Medium Vessel Occlusions: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The optimal imaging method for detecting distal medium vessel occlusions (DMVOs) remains undefined.

PURPOSE

The objective of this study is to compare the diagnostic performance of CTA with CTP in detecting DMVOs.

DATA SOURCES

We searched PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science Core Collection, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials up to March 31, 2023 (PROSPERO: CRD42022344006).

STUDY SELECTION

A total of 12 studies reporting accuracy values of CTA and/or CTP were included, comprising 2607 patients with 479 cases (18.3%) of DMVOs.

DATA ANALYSIS

Pooled sensitivity and specificity of both imaging methods were compared using a random-effects model. Subgroup analyses were performed based on the technique used in CTA (multi or single-phase) and the subtype of DMVOs (M2-only vs. M2 and other DMVOs). We applied Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy (QUADAS-2) tool and Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) quality assessment criteria.

DATA SYNTHESIS

CTA demonstrated significantly lower sensitivity compared to CTP in detecting DMVOs [0.74, 95%CI (0.63-0.82) vs. 0.89, 95% CI (0.82-0.93), P < 0.01]. When subgrouped into single-phase and multi-phase CTA, multi-phase CTA exhibited higher sensitivity for DMVO detection than single-phase CTA [0.91, 95%CI (0.85-0.94) vs. 0.64, 95%CI (0.56-0.71), P < .01], while reaching similar levels to CTP. The sensitivity of single-phase CTA substantially decreased when extending from M2 to other non-M2 DMVOs [0.74, 95%CI (0.63-0.83) vs. 0.61, 0.95%CI (0.53-0.68), P = .02].

LIMITATIONS

We identified an overall high risk of bias and low quality of evidence, attributable to the design and reference standards of most studies.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings highlight a significantly lower sensitivity of single-phase CTA compared to multi-phase CTA and CTP in diagnosing DMVOs.

Key factors for effective implementation of healthcare workers support interventions after patient safety incidents in health organisations: a scoping review

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to map and frame the main factors present in support interventions successfully implemented in health organisations in order to provide timely and adequate response to healthcare workers (HCWs) after patient safety incidents (PSIs).

DESIGN

Scoping review guided by the six-stage approach proposed by Arksey and O'Malley and by PRISMA-ScR.

DATA SOURCES

CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Embase, Epistemonikos, PsycINFO, PubMed, SciELO Citation Index, Scopus, Web of Science Core Collection, reference lists of the eligible articles, websites and a consultation group.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR SELECTING STUDIES

Empirical studies (original articles) were prioritised. We used the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool Version 2018 to conduct a quality assessment of the eligible studies.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS

A total of 9766 records were retrieved (last update in November 2022). We assessed 156 articles for eligibility in the full-text screening. Of these, 29 earticles met the eligibility criteria. The articles were independently screened by two authors. In the case of disagreement, a third author was involved. The collected data were organised according to the Organisational factors, People, Environment, Recommendations from other Audies, Attributes of the support interventions. We used EndNote to import articles from the databases and Rayyan to support the screening of titles and abstracts.

RESULTS

The existence of an organisational culture based on principles of trust and non-judgement, multidisciplinary action, leadership engagement and strong dissemination of the support programmes' were crucial factors for their effective implementation. Training should be provided for peer supporters and leaders to facilitate the response to HCWs' needs. Regular communication among the implementation team, allocation of protected time, funding and continuous monitoring are useful elements to the sustainability of the programmes.

CONCLUSION

HCWs' well-being depends on an adequate implementation of a complex group of interrelated factors to support them after PSIs.

Implementation of digital health in rural populations with chronic musculoskeletal conditions: A scoping review protocol

Musculoskeletal conditions are a major source of disability worldwide, and its burden have been rising in the last decades. Rural areas, in particular, are associated with higher prevalence of these conditions as well as higher levels of disability, which is likely related to other determinants that affect these communities. Although digital health has been identified as a potential solution to mitigate the impact of these determinants, it is also known that these populations may face barriers that limit the implementation of these interventions. Therefore, the aim of this scoping review is to comprehensively map the evidence regarding the implementation of digital health interventions in rural populations with chronic musculoskeletal conditions. We will include studies published from the year 2000; that report the use of digital interventions that promote prevention, treatment or monitoring of any chronic musculoskeletal condition or chronic pain from musculoskeletal origin, in patients that live in rural areas. This protocol follows the methodological framework for scoping reviews proposed by Arksey and O'Malley, as well as the Joana Briggs Institute (JBI) approach. We will conduct the search on Medline (PubMed), EMBASE, Web of Science and Scopus, as well as grey literature databases. Two independent reviewers will screen titles and abstracts followed by a full-text review to assess the eligibility of the articles. Data extracted will include the identification of the digital interventions used, barriers and enablers identified by the patients or healthcare providers, the patient-level outcomes measured, and the implementation strategies and outcomes reported. By mapping the evidence on the implementation of digital health interventions in rural communities with musculoskeletal conditions, this scoping review will enhance our understanding of their applicability in real-world settings.

What Is the Optimal Bowel Preparation for Capsule Colonoscopy and Pan-intestinal Capsule Endoscopy? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

The rate of adequate cleansing (ACR) and complete examinations (CR) are key quality indicators in capsule colonoscopy (CC) and pan-intestinal capsule endoscopy (PCE).

AIMS

To evaluate the efficacy of bowel preparation protocols regarding ACR and CR.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis, search terms regarding colon capsule preparation, publication date from 2006/01, and date of search 2021/12, in six bibliographic databases. Multiple steps of the cleansing protocol were assessed: diet, adjunctive laxatives, purgative solution, use of prokinetic agents, and "booster". The meta-analytical frequency of ACR and CR was estimated, and subgroup analyses performed. Strategies associated with higher ACR and CR were explored using meta-analytical univariable and multivariable regression models.

RESULTS

Twenty-six observational studies and five RCTs included (n = 4072 patients). The pooled rate of ACR was 72.5% (95% C.I. 67.8-77.5%; I2 = 92.4%), and the pooled rate of CR was 83.0% (95% C.I. 78.7-87.7%; I2 = 96.5%). The highest ACR were obtained using a low-fibre diet [78.5% (95% C.I. 72.0-85.6%); I2 = 57.0%], adjunctive laxatives [74.7% (95% C.I. 69.8-80.1%); I2 = 85.3%], and split dose < 4L polyethylene glycol (PEG) as purgative [77.5% (95% C.I. 68.4-87.8%); I2 = 47.3%]. The highest CR were observed using routine prokinetics prior to capsule ingestion [84.4% (95% C.I. 79.9-89.2%); I2 = 89.8%], and sodium phosphate (NaP) as "booster" [86.2% (95% C.I. 82.3-90.2%); I2 = 86.8%]. In univariable models, adjunctive laxatives were associated with higher ACR [OR 1.81 (95% C.I. 1.13; 2.90); p = 0.014]. CR was higher with routine prokinetics [OR 1.86 (95% C.I. 1.13; 3.05); p = 0.015] and split-dose PEG purgative [OR 2.03 (95% C.I. 1.01; 4.09), p = 0.048].

CONCLUSIONS

Main quality outcomes (ACR, CR) remain suboptimal for CC and PCE. Despite considerable heterogeneity, our results support low-fibre diet, use of adjunctive sennosides, split dose < 4L PEG, and routine prokinetics, while NaP remains the most consistent option as booster.

Computed Tomography versus Sleep Endoscopy (DISE) to Predict the Effectiveness of Mandibular Advancement Devices in Adult Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Protocol for Systematic Review

Obstructive sleep apnea is a sleep disorder with a high prevalence in the world population. The mandibular advancement device is one of the options for treating obstructive sleep apnea. Neck computed tomography and drug-induced sleep endoscopy are complementary diagnostic tests that may help predict the effectiveness of mandibular advancement devices. This study aims to analyze the best method for predicting the effectiveness of mandibular advancement devices in the therapeutic approach to obstructive sleep apnea. PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and Web of Science Core Collection databases will be comprehensively searched. We will include randomized clinical trials, non-randomized prospective or retrospective clinical studies, case controls, cohort studies, and case series. Two authors will independently conduct data extraction and assess the literature quality of the studies. The analysis of the included literature will be conducted by Revman 5.3 software. The outcomes that will be analyzed are craniofacial characteristics, cephalometric assessments, site and type of obstruction of the upper airway, mean values of the apnea-hypopnea index, and SaO2 verified in the initial and follow-up polysomnography. This study will provide reliable, evidence-based support for the clinical application of mandibular advancement devices for obstructive sleep apnea.

The effects of physical exercise on axial spondyloarthritis - a systematic review

AIM

To collect and summarize the available scientific evidence that evaluates the effects of physical exercise interventions on axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA).

METHODS

A systematic review was conducted in accordance to the guidance of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) to collect randomized controlled trials on the PubMed, Embase and Web of Science Core Collection databases. The search strategy included terms regarding physical exercise interventions targeted to axSpA participants and all of its variants in multiple combinations adapted to each one of the databases regarding its own special requirements. Several outcomes were defined: Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI), Bath ankylosing spondylitis functional index (BASFI), Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Metrology Index (BASMI), ASDAS (Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score), C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), the 36-item short form health survey (SF-36) and the Ankylosing Spondylitis Quality of Life questionnaire (ASQoL). Two independent researchers screened the titles and abstracts followed by full-text analysis when suitable, using EndnoteTM online. Selected articles, according to exclusion/inclusion criteria defined, were submitted to data extraction and bias assessment was performed for each study's outcomes using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials.

RESULTS

A total of 2063 articles were identified through the electronic databases search. After removal of duplicates, 1435 were eligible for screening, of which 45 articles went through full text evaluation. Only 24 articles met the inclusion/exclusion criteria. Physical exercise contributes for a statistically significant improvement of BASDAI in 13 studies, BASFI in 10, BASMI in 6, ASDAS in 3, CRP in 2, ESR in 1, SF-36 in 2 and ASQoL in 3.No major adverse effects were reported and an overall benefit was noted with the implementation of physical exercise as a treatment modality for axSpA.

CONCLUSION

Physical exercise seems to be an effective non-pharmacological therapy for axSpA, with positive effects in disease activity, physical function, and quality of life.

Promoting Ethical Integrity in Authorship Attribution: Who Can Help More?

N/a.

The evolution of blood brain barrier permeability changes after stroke, and its implications on clinical outcome: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Blood-brain barrier permeability (BBBp) is key process involved in ischemic stroke pathophysiology. However, there is a lack of consensus on how BBBp evolves after the ischaemic injury, and its clinical relevance at different time points post stroke.

AIMS

To assess BBBp evolution through stroke phases, and its implications on patient outcomes.

METHODS

We screened PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, Scopus and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials up to December 31, 2021. We included research quantitatively using neuroimaging to assess BBBp in stroke patients. BBBp in the different phases was evaluated by a random effect model based on the standardized mean difference (SMD) between the ipsilateral and contralateral sides of the brain. We performed subgroup analysis on clinical outcome, reperfusion treatment, haemorrhagic transformation and imaging method.

RESULTS

We identified 3761 studies of which 22 (1592 patients, 1787 evaluations) were included in our study. Overall, 17 studies reported BBBp for the hyperacute phase, eight for the acute, five for the subacute and two for the chronic phase. All phases were associated with increased BBBp : 0.74 (0.48-0.99), 1.68 (0.94-2.42), 1.98 (0.96-3.00) and 1.00 (0.45-1.55) respectively. An increase in BBBp was associated with hemorrhagic transformation in the hyperacute phase, and with improved functional outcomes in the late subacute phase.

CONCLUSIONS

BBBp is persistently increased after stroke, peaking in the acute and subacute phases. The degree of BBBp influences patient outcomes depending on stroke phase. Our findings support the clinical relevance of BBBp dynamics in stroke care.

The Transparency of Science with ChatGPT and the Emerging Artificial Intelligence Language Models: Where Should Medical Journals Stand?

N/a.

Diagnostic accuracy of CT angiography and CT perfusion imaging for detecting distal medium vessel occlusions: Protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Distal medium vessel occlusions (DMVOs) represent 25-40% of all acute ischemic strokes (AIS). DMVO clinical syndromes are heterogenous, but as eloquent brain regions are frequently involved, they are often disabling. Since current intravenous fibrinolytic therapies may fail to recanalize up to two-thirds of DMVOs, endovascular treatment is progressively being considered in this setting. Nevertheless, the optimal imaging method for diagnosis remains to be defined. Stroke centers that use computed tomography as a routine stroke imaging approach rely on either isolated computed tomography angiography (CTA) or combined perfusion (CTP) studies. Despite a simplified non-CTP-dependent approach seeming reasonable for large vessel occlusion AIS diagnosis, CTP may still hold advantages for DMVOs workup. Therefore, this systematic review aims to compare the diagnostic performance of CTA and CTP in detecting DMVOs.

METHODS

We will perform a systematic search in PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science Core Collection, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. In addition, grey literature and ClinicalTrials.gov will be scanned. We will include any type of study that presents data on the diagnostic accuracy of CTA and/or CTP for detecting DMVOs. Two authors will independently review retrieved studies, and any discrepancies will be resolved by consensus or with a third reviewer. Reviewers will extract the data and assess the risk of bias in the selected studies. Data will be combined in a quantitative meta-analysis following the guidelines provided by the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. We will assess cumulative evidence using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach.

DISCUSSION

This will be the first systematic review and meta-analysis that compares two different imaging approaches for detecting DMVOs. This study may help to define optimal acute ischemic stroke imaging work-up.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

PROSPERO registration: CRD42022344006.

The Twitter Factor: How Does Twitter Impact #Stroke Journals and Citation Rates?

BACKGROUND

Twitter is a social media platform popularly used by health practitioners, a trend that has been followed by medical journals. The impact of Twitter in bibliometrics of stroke-related literature is yet to be determined.

AIMS

We aimed to qualitatively assess the usage of Twitter by stroke journals and study the relationship between Twitter activity and citation rates of stroke articles.

METHODS

We used Journal Citation Reports to identify stroke journals. We collected the 2021 Impact Factor (IF) and the top 50 articles contributing to each journal IF. Relevant metrics were collected through Twitonomy, Altmetric and Web of Science. The association between Twitter activity and citation rates was tested by a negative binomial regression model adjusted to journal’s IF. A bivariate correlation and a log-linear regression model adjusted to journal’s IF tested the relationship between number of tweets, tweeters and the number of citations.

RESULTS

We collected 450 articles across 9 stroke-dedicated journals, five of which had a Twitter account. Only 95 (21%) articles had no Twitter mentions. The median number of citations in articles with versus without Twitter activity was 19 (10-39) vs 11(7-17) (P<0.001). Twitter activity was associated with higher citation rates controlling for the IF (OR: 2.7, 95%CI 2.12-3.38, P<0.001). We found number of tweets to be predicted by the number of citations controlling for the IF (B=0.33, 95%CI 0.29-0.40, β=0.54, P<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Tweeted stroke articles tend to have higher citation rates which can be predicted by the number of tweets.

Concomitant tricuspid repair in mitral regurgitation surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Tricuspid Regurgitation (TR) is common in patients with severe mitral disease. However, the evidence is insufficient to inform a decision about whether to perform prophylactic tricuspid-valve repair during mitral-valve surgery in patients who have moderate TR or less-than-moderate regurgitation.

Purpose

To compare the outcomes of concomitant tricuspid repair in mitral valve surgery versus no concomitant tricuspid repair in less-than-severe TR patients.

Methods

We systematically searched PubMed, Embase and Cochrane databases, in December 2021, for interventional studies comparing concomitant tricuspid repair in mitral valve surgery versus no tricuspid intervention. Random-effects meta-analysis was performed.

Results

Four randomised trials were included, providing a total of 651 patients (323 in prophylactic tricuspid intervention group and 328 patients in conservative group). Our meta-analysis showed a similar all-cause mortality for concomitant prophylactic tricuspid repair compared with no tricuspid intervention (pooled OR, 0.54; 95% CI [0.25, 1.15], P=0.11; I2=0%). Additionally, there is a similar New York Heart Association (NYHA) III–IV classes in both groups, despite a lower trend in the tricuspid intervention group (pooled OR, 0.63; 95% CI [0.38, 1.06], P=0.08; I2=0%) (Figure 3). However, there was a significant lower progression of TR (pooled OR, 0.06; 95% CI [0.02, 0.24], P&lt;0.01; I2=0%) and moderate-severe TR (pooled OR, 0.23; 95% CI [0.11, 0.46], P&lt;0.01; I2=27%).

Conclusions

Our pooled analysis suggests that a tricuspid-valve repair at the time of mitral-valve surgery in patients with moderate or less-than-moderate TR does not impact perioperative or postoperative all-cause mortality, despite reducing TR severity and progression of TR following intervention.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Key factors for effective implementation of healthcare worker support interventions after patient safety incidents in health organisations: a protocol for a scoping review

INTRODUCTION

Health organisations should support healthcare workers who are physically and psychologically affected by patient safety incidents (second victims). There is a growing body of evidence which focuses on second victim support interventions. However, there is still limited research on the elements necessary to effectively implement and ensure the sustainability of these types of interventions. In this study, we propose to map and frame the key factors which underlie an effective implementation of healthcare worker support interventions in healthcare organisations when healthcare workers are physically and/or emotionally affected by patient safety incidents.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This scoping review will be guided by the established methodological Arksey and O'Malley framework, Levac and Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) recommendations. We will follow the JBI three-step process: (1) a preliminary search conducted on two databases; (2) the definition of clear inclusion criteria and the creation of a list of search terms to be used in the subsequent running of the search on a larger number of databases; and (3) additional searches (cross-checking/cross-referencing of reference lists of eligible studies, hand-searching in target journals relevant to the topic, conference proceedings, institutional/organisational websites and networks repositories). We will undertake a comprehensive search strategy in relevant bibliographic databases (PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, CINHAL, Web of Science, Scopus, PsycInfo, Epistemonikos, Scielo, Cochrane Library and Open Grey). We will use the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool V.2018 for quality assessment of the eligible studies. Our scoping review will be guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis Extension for Scoping Reviews.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

This study will not require ethical approval. Results of the scoping review will be published in a peer-review journal, and findings will be presented in scientific conferences as well as in international forums and other relevant dissemination channels.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

10.17605/OSF.IO/RQAT6.Preprint from medRxiv available: doi: https://doi.org/10.1101/2022.01.25.22269846.

Machine learning in predicting extracapsular extension (ECE) of prostate cancer with MRI: a protocol for a systematic literature review

INTRODUCTION

In patients with prostate cancer (PCa), the detection of extracapsular extension (ECE) and seminal vesicle invasion is not only important for selecting the appropriate therapy but also for preoperative planning and patient prognosis. It is of paramount importance to stage PCa correctly before surgery, in order to achieve better surgical and outcome results. Over the last years, MRI has been incorporated in the classical prostate staging nomograms with clinical improvement accuracy in detecting ECE, but with variability between studies and radiologist's experience.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

The research question, based on patient, index test, comparator, outcome and study design criteria, was the following: what is the diagnostic performance of artificial intelligence algorithms for predicting ECE in PCa patients, when compared with that of histopathological results after radical prostatectomy. To answer this question, we will use databases (EMBASE, PUBMED, Web of Science and CENTRAL) to search for the different studies published in the literature and we use the QUADA tool to evaluate the quality of the research selection.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

This systematic review does not require ethical approval. The results will be disseminated through publication in a peer-review journal, as a chapter of a doctoral thesis and through presentations at national and international conferences.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42020215671.

Models of care for low back pain patients in primary healthcare: a scoping review protocol

INTRODUCTION

Low back pain (LBP) is the most prevalent musculoskeletal condition worldwide and it is responsible for high healthcare costs and resources consumption. It represents a challenge for primary care services that struggle to implement evidence-based practice. Models of care (MoCs) are arising as effective solutions to overcome this problem, leading to better health outcomes. Although there is growing evidence regarding MoCs for the management of LBP patients, an analysis of the existing body of evidence has not yet been carried out. Therefore, this scoping review aims to identify and map the current evidence about the implementation of MoCs for LBP in primary healthcare. Findings from this study will inform policy makers, health professionals and researchers about their characteristics and outcomes, guiding future research and best practice models.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This protocol will follow the Joanna Briggs Institute methodological guidelines for scoping reviews. Studies that implemented an MoC for LBP patients in primary healthcare will be included. Searches will be conducted on PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PEDro, Scopus, Web of Science, grey literature databases and relevant organisations websites. This review will consider records from 2000, written in English, Portuguese or Spanish. Two researchers will independently screen all citations and full-text articles and abstract data. Data extracted will include the identification of the MoC, key elements of the intervention, organisational components, context-specific factors and patient-related, system-related and implementation-related outcomes.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

As a secondary analysis, this study does not require ethical approval. It will provide a comprehensive understanding on existing MoCs for LBP, outcomes and context-related challenges that may influence implementation in primary healthcare, which is meaningful knowledge to inform future research in this field. Findings will be disseminated through research papers in peer-reviewed journals, presentations at relevant conferences and documentation for professional organisations and stakeholders.

Predictors of echocardiographic response to cardiac resynchronization therapy: A systematic review with Meta-Analysis

•

NYHA class II seems to predict response to CRT.

•

We should not delay CRT, trying medical management first, even in mildly symptomatic patients.

•

Atrial fibrillation patients must have the same indication for CRT as those in sinus rhythm.

Background

At least 30% of the patients do not respond to cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of real-world studies trying to identify predictors of response to CRT.

Methods

PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) were searched for observational prospective studies, referring the evaluation of response to CRT, defined as a decrease in left ventricle end-systolic volume (LVESV) ≥ 15% at 6-month follow-up, via two-dimensional echocardiography.

Results

A total of 24 studies were included. The meta-analysis showed that female gender (p = 0.018), non-ischemic cardiomyopathy (NICM) (p < 0.001), left bundle branch morphology (LBBB) (p = 0.001), longer QRS (p < 0.001) and New York Heart Association (NYHA) class II (p = 0.014) appear to favor response to CRT. After ROC analysis and logistic regression procedures, female gender (kappa = 0.450; p < 0.001), NICM (kappa = 0.636; p < 0.001), LBBB (kappa = 0.935; p < 0.001), and NYHA class II (kappa = 0.647; p < 0.001) were identified as independent predictors of response to CRT, being LBBB the most reliable one (sensitivity = 97.24%; specificity = 98.86%).

Conclusions

Female gender, NICM, LBBB and NYHA class II are baseline variables with an apparent capability to independently predict response to CRT, being LBBB the most reliable one.

Clinical performance of monolithic CAD/CAM tooth-supported zirconia restorations: systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

The purpose of this systematic review was to evaluate the survival rate, biological complications, technical complications, and clinical behavior of single crowns supported by teeth made up in monolithic zirconia with CAD/CAM technology.

STUDY SELECTION

An extensive electronic search was conducted through Medline/PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases. Additional manual search was performed on the references of included articles to identify relevant publications. Two reviewers independently performed the selection and electronic and manual search.

RESULTS

From nine articles included, there was a total of 594 participants and 1657 single-tooth restorations with a mean exposure time of 1.07 years, and follow-up period between 0.3 and 2.1 years. All studies showed a moderate level of quality, with a consequent moderate possibility of associated bias, using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS), with survival rate (SR) ranging between 91% to 100%. Bleeding on probing (BOP) were reported with an average value of 29.12%. Marginal integrity showed high success rate values for the observation periods, except for one that included patients with bruxism which obtained a SR of 31.60%. Failures and/or fractures, mostly total and requiring replacement, were observed in three studies. Linear regression showed that there was no statistical correlation between survival rate and type of cementation and the average years of follow-up (p=0.730 e p=0.454). There was high heterogeneity between studies (I2 = 93.74% and Q = 79.672).

CONCLUSIONS

Within the limitation of this study, monolithic zirconia might be considered as a possible option for restoring single crowns, especially in the posterior zone.

Models of care for patients with knee osteoarthritis in primary healthcare: a scoping review protocol

INTRODUCTION

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent condition with associated high disability and healthcare costs. Evidence of major gaps in the implementation of evidence-based interventions in people with knee OA led several healthcare systems to implement models of care (MoCs) in order to improve knowledge translation and guaranty their economic sustainability. Nevertheless, there are few studies that analyse the existing body of evidence of MoCs for patients with knee OA in primary healthcare settings. Therefore, we aim to identify MoCs developed for patients with knee OA implemented in primary healthcare and, analyse their core components and outcomes. This scoping review will create knowledge about the components and outcomes of these MoCs which, in the future, will facilitate their transferability to practice.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

We will include studies that developed and implemented an MoC for people with knee OA in primary healthcare. We will use the PCC mnemonic, being 'Population'-people with Knee OA, 'Concept'-the MoCs and 'Context'-the primary healthcare setting. We will conduct the search on PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Scopus, Web of Science Core Collection, as well as grey literature databases and relevant institutions and organisations websites, for articles published after 2000. Two independent reviewers will screen titles and abstracts followed by a full-text review to assess papers regarding their eligibility. We will evaluate the methodological quality of the included studies with the Mixed Methods Appraisal tool and apply a data abstraction form to describe and interpret the evidence.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

As a secondary analysis, this scoping review does not require ethical approval. Findings will be published in peer-review journal, presented in scientific conferences and as a summary through primary healthcare units.

AB0747 MATERNAL AND FETAL OUTCOMES IN PREGNANT WOMEN WITH JUVENILE IDIOPATHIC ARTHRITIS: A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW

Background:

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), one of the most common chronic diseases in children, can be classified in seven different categories according to its onset presentation. Concerns about pregnancy outcomes play a secondary role in disease approach. However, recent data showed an increased risk of pre-term birth in women with JIA instead the small patient samples analysed.

Objectives:

In this review, our aim is to describe the current available knowledge on JIA adverse, maternal and fetal, outcomes.

Methods:

A systematic literature review was conducted since January of 2000 until December 2020, by searching the PubMed and Embase bibliographic databases. The search was limited to articles in English language, presenting a comparator group (healthy individuals or patients without known auto-immune rheumatic diseases) and at least one clinical outcome of interest. Two independent reviewers screened the titles and abstracts followed by a full-text review to assess papers regarding their eligibility.

Results:

Ten observational studies out of 1560 references, fulfilled the inclusion criteria, of which, 9 were retrospective and 1 prospective. A total of 6.214 women with JIA (with 6.811 pregnancies) and 18.659.513 healthy controls (with 21.339.194 pregnancies) were included in this review.

Concerning maternal outcomes, delivery by caesarian section (CS) was more frequent among JIA women (in 4 out of 6 studies). Pre-eclampsia was referred in 3 out of 6 studies and a higher risk of vaginal bleeding and placenta previa in one additional study. No study found an increased risk for gestational diabetes or hypertension in pregnant women with JIA.

Regarding fetal outcomes, 8 studies revealed significantly increased of pre-term birth (only in first births in one study) but one study didn’t show any increased risk. Two studies showed a higher risk of small gestational age (SGA) and in another 2, increased risk for low birth weight (LBW). No evidence of increased risk of major congenital malformations.

Conclusion:

This systematic review suggests an increased risk for pre-eclampsia, preterm birth, delivery by CS, SGA and LBW, among pregnant women with JIA. Conclusions should be carefully interpreted, giving the heterogeneity of studied populations regarding demography, disease type, disease activity, and prescribed medication.

Disclosure of Interests:

None declared

[Thoughts about the Impact Factor]

N/a.

Permeability of the blood-brain barrier through the phases of ischaemic stroke and relation with clinical outcome: protocol for a systematic review

INTRODUCTION

Ischaemic stroke is the most prevalent type of stroke and is characterised by a myriad of pathological events triggered by a vascular arterial occlusion. Disruption of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a key pathological event that may lead to fatal outcomes. However, it seems to follow a multiphasic pattern that has been associated with distinct biological substrates and possibly contrasting outcomes. Addressing the BBB permeability (BBBP) along the different phases of stroke through imaging techniques could lead to a better understanding of the disease, improved patient selection for specific treatments and development of new therapeutic modalities and delivery methods. This systematic review will aim to comprehensively summarise the existing evidence regarding the evolution of the BBBP values during the different phases of an acute ischaemic stroke and correlate this event with the clinical outcome of the patient.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

We will conduct a computerised search on Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Scopus and Web of Science. In addition, grey literature and ClinicalTrials.gov will be scanned. We will include randomised controlled trials, cohort, cross-sectional and case-controlled studies on humans that quantitatively assess the BBBP in stroke. Retrieved studies will be independently reviewed by two authors and any discrepancies will be resolved by consensus or with a third reviewer. Reviewers will extract the data and assess the risk of bias of the selected studies. If possible, data will be combined in a quantitative meta-analysis following the guidelines provided by Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. We will assess cumulative evidence using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Ethical approval is not needed. All data used for this work are publicly available. The result obtained from this work will be published in a peer-reviewed journal and disseminated in relevant conferences.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42019147314.

[How Acta Médica Portuguesa Adjusted to Pandemic Times]

N/a.

Stroke after transcatheter edge-to-edge mitral valve repair: a systematic review and meta-analysis

AIMS

The aim of this study was to assess the stroke rate after transcatheter mitral valve repair (TMVR) with the MitraClip, comparing it with surgical mitral valve repair (SMVR) and optimal medical treatment (OMT).

METHODS AND RESULTS

In December 2018, we systematically searched PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Controlled Register of Trials for studies comparing TMVR with SMVR and/or OMT for the treatment of severe mitral regurgitation. Random-effects and cumulative meta-analysis was performed. Ten studies were included (seven of TMVR versus SMVR and three of TMVR versus OMT), providing a total of 1,881 patients and 61 pooled strokes (16 in TMVR versus SMVR and 45 in TMVR versus OMT). There was no difference in stroke incidence between TMVR and SMVR (pooled OR 0.49 [0.17, 1.42], p=0.19). However, there was a trend towards a lower stroke risk in TMVR. For TMVR versus OMT, no difference in stroke rate was identified (pooled OR 1.09 [0.60, 1.97], p=0.79). Post-procedure de novo atrial fibrillation was more frequent in SMVR when compared with TMVR.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite both a low number of pooled stroke events and the failure to reach the pre-specified statistical significance, there was a trend for a lower post-procedure stroke rate in TMVR when compared with SMVR and a similar one between TMVR and OMT alone.

[I Submitted a Paper to Acta Médica Portugal. What Happens Now?]

N/a.

5034Is stroke an issue after transcatheter mitral valve repair? A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Transcatheter mitral valve repair (TMVR) is a minimally invasive therapeutic procedure used as an alternative to surgery for mitral valve regurgitation in high risk patients. This technique creates a double orifice area, which might be comparable to a mitral prosthesis or mitral stenosis. So far, no strict antithrombotic therapy has been recommended and different post-procedure protocols are being currently applied.

Objectives

To assess stroke rate after TMVR, comparing it with surgical mitral valve repair (SMVR) and optimal medical treatment (OMT).

Methods

We systematically searched PubMed, Embase and Cochrane databases, in December 2018, for both interventional or observational studies comparing TMVR with SMVR and/or OMT in the treatment of severe mitral regurgitation. Only studies including data on post-procedure stroke incidence were selected. Two authors independently screened articles for inclusion, risk of bias and data extraction. Random-effects meta-analysis for TMVR, SMVR and OMT were performed. Due to the low number of pooled events, a cumulative meta-analysis was subsequently implemented. The meta-analysis was registered on the Prospero database.

Results

15 studies were selected for qualitative analysis and, among these, 10 were included in the quantitative analyses (7 of TMVR vs. SMVR and 3 of TMVR vs. OMT), providing a total of 1881 patients. TMVR patients were older and had higher surgical risk scores than SMVR patients. Groups were homogeneous regarding previous atrial fibrillation rate (pooled OR 1.45 [0.82–2.55]), whereas post-procedure de novo atrial fibrillation was more frequent in SMVR when compared with TMVR (pooled OR 0.20 [0.06–0.7]). Although the pooled stroke rate was numerically lower in the TMVR group, there was no statistically difference in the stroke incidence between TMVR and SMVR (pooled OR 0.49 [0.17, 1.42], p=0.19, I2= 0%) – Panel A. On the other hand, cumulative meta-analysis was able to show a significantly lower stroke rate in TMVR, when compared to SMVR (OR 0.4 [0.40, 0.67], p<0.05). As for TMVR vs. OMT, no difference in stroke rate was identified (pooled OR 1.09 [0.60, 1.97], p=0.79, I2=0%) – Panel B.

Forest Plots – Stroke incidence

Conclusions

Post-procedure TMVR stroke rate was similar to that of patients managed with OMT only. For the same outcome, results favored TMVR when compared with SMVR, which might be related to its lower incidence of post-procedure de novo atrial fibrillation. These findings may prove insightful to future recommendations regarding the conundrum of the best antithrombotic strategy, particularly for patients with atrial fibrillation.

A Vibrant Community of Readers, Authors and Reviewers: A Medical Editors' Necessity and a Challenge for Medical Education

N/a.

Advanced Maternal Age: Adverse Outcomes of Pregnancy, A Meta-Analysis

INTRODUCTION

The risks of pregnancy in women of advanced maternal age are not consensual amongst studies. The aim of this metaanalysis  was to determine whether women of advanced maternal age (≥ 35 years old) had worse obstetrical and perinatal outcomes than non- advanced maternal age women (20 - 34 years old) in singleton, naturally-conceived pregnancies.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We searched PubMed/ MEDLINE, IndexRMP and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Ten studies were included according to the following criteria: population of > 1000 nulliparous and/or multiparous women with singleton gestations who did not undergo any type of infertility treatment. Using Review Manager v. 5.3, two meta-analysis were performed: one comparing the outcomes of 20 - 34-year-old vs 35 - 40-year-old women, and another comparing the outcomes of 35 - 40-year-old women vs > 40-year-old women.

RESULTS

Women aged 35 - 40 years old were more likely to have > 12 years of education than 20 - 34 years old and > 40 years old women. Advanced maternal age women (35 - 40 and > 40 years old) were more likely to be overweight and having gestational diabetes and gestational hypertension. They were also more likely to undergo induced labour and elective caesarean deliveries. Furthermore, they had worse perinatal outcomes such as preterm delivery, low birthweight babies, higher rates of Neonatal Intensive Care Unit admission and worse Apgar scores. Advanced maternal age women had higher rates of perinatal mortality and stillbirth.

DISCUSSION

Most authors present similar results to our study. Although the majority of adverse outcomes can be explained through the physio-pathological changes regarding the female reproductive apparatus that come with aging and its inherent comorbidities, according to the existing literature advanced maternal age can be an independent risk factor per se. In older pregnant women without comorbidities such as gestational hypertension or diabetes there are still worse obstetric and perinatal outcomes, which indicate that advanced maternal age is an independent strong risk factor alone.

CONCLUSION

Advanced maternal age women are at a higher risk of adverse obstetrical and perinatal outcomes. In both comparisons, worse outcomes were more prevalent in the older group, suggesting that poorer outcomes are more prevalent with increasing age.

[Stages for Undertaking a Systematic Review]

There has been an increase in the use of systematic review as a research methodology to compile and analyze large datasets of existing studies. With this increase, the recommendations to conduct this type of research also increased. The aim of this article is to provide a guide for understanding and/or undertaking a systematic review for publication across all stages of the review process. When doing a systematic review of the literature the authors become knowledgeable of the subject and, although time-consuming, they can develop a set of skills including literature research and scientific writing. A systematic review, compared to primary research, requires relatively few resources, allowing clinicians not normally involved in research to produce clinically relevant, high-quality articles.

Prognostic factors for recovery and non-recovery in patients with non-specific neck pain: a protocol for a systematic literature review

INTRODUCTION

Neck pain is a common musculoskeletal disorder worldwide. It can result in significant disability and impaired quality of life. More than 50% of patients with neck pain still report symptoms 1 year later despite receiving different forms of non-pharmacological and pharmacological treatment. Identifying patient characteristics that are modifiable or predict recovery and non-recovery for an individual patient might identify ways of improving outcomes. This systematic review aims to comprehensively summarise the existing evidence regarding baseline patient characteristics associated with recovery and non-recovery, as defined by measures of pain intensity, disability and global perceived improvement.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

Six electronic databases, PubMed, CINAHL, PEDro Database, EMBASE, Cochrane Library and Web of Science, will be searched, with terms related to the review question such as neck pain, prognostic or predictive research, from inception to 28 September of 2018. Studies will be included if they have investigated an association between patient characteristics and outcomes, with at least one follow-up time point. Two independent reviewers will screen the titles and abstracts followed by a full-text review to assess papers regarding their eligibility. Data from included papers will be extracted using standardised forms, including study and participants' characteristics, outcomes, prognostic factors and effect size of the association. The risk of bias of each study will be assessed using the Quality in Prognostic Studies tool. A narrative synthesis will be conducted considering the strength, consistency of results and the methodological quality.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

This systematic review does not require ethical approval. The results will be disseminated through publication in a peer-review journal, as a chapter of a doctoral thesis and through presentations at national and international conferences.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42018091183.

Revisão por Pares: O Coração das Revistas Científicas

A revisão por pares (peer review) também designada por arbitragem científica, é uma componente fundamental para a prática e progresso da Medicina e é essencial para o sucesso de uma revista científica.

Smoking and antidepressants pharmacokinetics: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Despite an increasingly recognized relationship between depression and smoking, little is known about how smoking influences antidepressant response and treatment outcomes. The aim of this study was to systematically review the evidence of the impact of smoking on new-generation antidepressants with an emphasis on the pharmacokinetic perspective.

METHODS

We present a systematic review of clinical trials comparing the serum levels of new-generation antidepressants in smokers and nonsmokers. Data were obtained from MEDLINE/PubMed, Embase, and other sources. Risk of bias was assessed for selection, performance, detection, attrition, and reporting of individual studies.

RESULTS

Twenty-one studies met inclusion criteria; seven involved fluvoxamine, two evaluated fluoxetine, sertraline, venlafaxine, duloxetine or mirtazapine, and escitalopram, citalopram, trazodone and bupropion were the subject of a single study. No trials were found involving other common antidepressants such as paroxetine or agomelatine. Serum levels of fluvoxamine, duloxetine, mirtazapine and trazodone were significantly higher in nonsmokers compared with smokers.

CONCLUSIONS

There is evidence showing a reduction in the concentration of serum levels of fluvoxamine, duloxetine, mirtazapine and trazodone in smoking patients as compared to nonsmokers. The evidence regarding other commonly used antidepressants is scarce. Nonetheless, smoking status should be considered when choosing an antidepressant treatment, given the risk of pharmacokinetic interactions.

Medical Education in Portugal

N/A.

[Tips for a Title]

<p><strong>Keywords:</strong> Periodicals as Topic; Writing.</p>

Vamos Publicar!

Keywords: Information Science; Publishing; Medical Journalism.

Bem-vindo a Bordo da Acta Médica Portuguesa, Bem-vindos à Primeira Divisão Internacional!

<strong>Keywords:</strong> Periodicals as Topic; Publishing; Portugal.

Think Tank: Relatório Estratégico sobre Publicação Científica Biomédica em Portugal

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