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A recent study conducted by the University of Calgary compared the completeness and accuracy of digital charting versus paper charting during simulated pediatric cardiac arrest. Participants were randomly assigned to either use a handheld digital charting device or a standard paper chart. The study found that while the digital charting group captured more critical tasks and was more accurate in recording the time intervals, the paper charting group had a higher completeness score. The research concluded that paper-based charting was more complete and detailed during simulated pediatric cardiac arrest. This study provides valuable insights into the effectiveness of different charting methods in emergency situations. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the University Hospital Center St. Pierre in Brussels, Belgium, compared the outcomes of oxygen reserve index-supported prehospital oxygen titration with standard oxygen titration in patients who experienced return of spontaneous circulation after cardiac arrest. The study aimed to determine if oxygen reserve index-guided oxygen titration improved outcomes. The results showed no significant difference in the normoxia index, incidence of hypoxia or hyperoxia, mean PaO2 at hospital admission, or serum neuron-specific enolase levels between the two groups. Therefore, the study concluded that oxygen reserve index-guided oxygen titration did not significantly improve outcomes compared to standard oxygen titration. [Extracted from the article]

Aneuploidy, Clinical Research, Clinical Trials and Studies, Genetics, Health and Medicine Keywords: Aneuploidy; Clinical Research; Clinical Trials and Studies; Genetics; Health and Medicine EN Aneuploidy Clinical Research Clinical Trials and Studies Genetics Health and Medicine 994 994 1 08/14/23 20230814 NES 230814 2023 AUG 14 (NewsRx) -- By a News Reporter-Staff News Editor at Clinical Trials Week -- Investigators publish new report on aneuploidy. [Extracted from the article]

Research methods are tools that can be variously applied - depending on the stage of knowledge in a particular area, the type of research question being asked, and the context of the research. The field of program evaluation, critical for social policy development, often has not adequately embraced the full range of methodological tools needed to understand and capture the complexity of these issues. The dominant paradigm, or "gold standard," for program evaluation remains the experimental method. This standard has merit, particularly because experimental research has the capacity to draw conclusions about cause and effect ("internal validity"). This paper identifies the benefits, common problems, and limitations in three characteristics of experimental studies: theory-driven hypotheses; random assignment of subjects to intervention groups; and experimenter-controlled, uniformly-applied interventions. Research situations are identified in which reliance on the experimental method can lead to inappropriate conclusions. For example, theory-driven hypotheses, if validated, provide a broader base of understanding of an issue and intervention; but some questions should be studied in the absence of theory simply because practice or policy needs the answer. Random assignment can produce cause-and-effect conclusions, but public services are never randomly assigned, and their effectiveness may well depend on participants' motivation or belief in the service (as signaled by their choice to participate). Experimenter-controlled uniform treatment administration insures that we know precisely the nature of the treatment documented to work by the evaluation, but it prohibits tailoring treatment to the individual needs of participants, which is a major "best practice" of service delivery. Suggestions are offered for ways to incorporate alternative research methods that may emphasize "external validity" (match to real-life circumstances), and complement results derived from experimental research designs on social programs. The field of program evaluation, and the policy decisions that rest on it, should utilize and value each research method relative to its merits, the purpose of the study, the specific questions to be asked, the circumstances under which the research is conducted, and the use to which the results will be put. [Commentaries in this issue of "Social Policy Report" include: (1) Beyond Advocacy: Putting History and Research on Research into Debates about the Merits of Social Experiments (Thomas D. Cook); (2) Why We Need More, Not Fewer, Gold Standard Evaluations (Phoebe Cottingham); (3) Don't Throw out the Baby with the Bathwater: Incorporating Behavioral Research into Evaluations (Jeanne Brooks-Gunn); and (4) On Randomized Trials and Bathwater: A Response to Cottingham and Brooks-Gunn (Robert B. McCall).]

Randomised controlled trial comparing digital and versus paper frequency voiding charts. Participants were assigned either a 48-h digital frequency voiding chart or a 48-h paper frequency voiding chart. The aim of this study is to compare the quality (number of correctly filled out charts) and quantity (number of complete charts) of digital versus paper frequency voiding charts among children and their parents. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Mugla Sitki Kocman University in Turkey conducted a study to investigate the effectiveness of telerehabilitation-based balance and coordination exercises on stroke patients. The study involved 30 stroke patients, with half receiving video-based exercise training and the other half receiving paper-based exercise training. The results showed that both methods were effective in improving balance confidence, fall efficacy, and functional independence, but the telerehabilitation-based video training was more effective in these areas. The study also found that individuals with stroke were satisfied with the remote rehabilitation application. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the University Hospital Foundation Alcorcon in Madrid, Spain, aimed to evaluate the effects of adding video animations to a traditional paper-based exercise program for patients with rotator cuff-related shoulder pain (RCRSP). The study involved 132 adult participants who were randomized into two groups, with both groups receiving paper-based exercises and the experimental group also receiving video animations. The primary outcome measure was the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index, and secondary outcomes included pain intensity, expectations of improvement, satisfaction with treatment, and adherence to exercises. The study has been approved by the ethics committee and the results will be published in a peer-reviewed scientific journal. [Extracted from the article]

Online experiments such as Randomised Controlled Trials (RCTs) or A/B-tests are the bread and butter of modern platforms on the web. They are conducted continuously to allow platforms to estimate the causal effect of replacing system variant "A" with variant "B", on some metric of interest. These variants can differ in many aspects. In this paper, we focus on the common use-case where they correspond to machine learning models. The online experiment then serves as the final arbiter to decide which model is superior, and should thus be shipped. The statistical literature on causal effect estimation from RCTs has a substantial history, which contributes deservedly to the level of trust researchers and practitioners have in this "gold standard" of evaluation practices. Nevertheless, in the particular case of machine learning experiments, we remark that certain critical issues remain. Specifically, the assumptions that are required to ascertain that A/B-tests yield unbiased estimates of the causal effect, are seldom met in practical applications. We argue that, because variants typically learn using pooled data, a lack of model interference cannot be guaranteed. This undermines the conclusions we can draw from online experiments with machine learning models. We discuss the implications this has for practitioners, and for the research literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A world-first framework called the Research Integrity in Guidelines and evIDence synthesis (RIGID) has been developed by researchers at Monash University in Australia. The framework aims to assess research integrity in clinical guidelines and exclude untrustworthy research during evidence synthesis and clinical guideline development. The RIGID framework uses a six-step approach to determine integrity risk and promote transparency. It has been successfully applied to the International Evidence-based Guidelines for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and is now being used in other national and international guidelines. The framework addresses the issue of problematic research and aims to ensure that only trustworthy evidence informs clinical practice. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from the University of Leicester discusses the challenges of non-compliance in medical research and the methods used to address this issue. The report highlights the limited evidence supporting the use of certain methods and the potential bias that can result from a per protocol approach. The researchers conducted a systematic review of simulation studies to compare existing statistical methods and assess their performance under various scenarios. The review found that instrumental variable methods were commonly considered but often found to be biased in certain settings. The researchers concluded that more studies are needed to compare a wide range of methods in realistic scenarios and that it is difficult to determine the best method to deal with non-compliance due to the limited body of evidence. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study investigated the effectiveness of a smartphone-assisted psychoeducation app for adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The study found that the app was more effective in improving inattention and impulsivity compared to traditional pen-and-paper brochures. The app also resulted in higher homework compliance and no adverse events were reported. However, it is important to note that this study has not yet undergone peer review. [Extracted from the article]

A growing literature in economics has analyzed the effects of psychological interventions designed to boost individual aspirations as a strategy to increase investments with long-term returns and thus reduce poverty. This paper reports on a randomized controlled trial evaluating a short video-based intervention designed to increase aspirations of adults in poor rural Ethiopian households, all of whom are beneficiaries of the Productive Safety Net Program, the main government safety net program in Ethiopia. Evidence from a sample of 5258 adults from 3220 households is consistent with the hypothesis that there is no evidence that the aspirations treatment had any significant effects on self-reported aspirations for the household, educational investment in children, or savings nine months post- treatment, suggesting that the effect of light-touch aspirations treatments for extremely poor adults may be limited in this context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The news editors obtained a quote from the research from University of Graz: "In addition, the effects of two modalities of writing were contrasted with each other: computer vs. paper/pencil. Keywords: Clinical Research; Clinical Trials and Studies; Health and Medicine; Psychology EN Clinical Research Clinical Trials and Studies Health and Medicine Psychology 1319 1319 1 10/03/23 20231003 NES 231003 2023 OCT 2 (NewsRx) -- By a News Reporter-Staff News Editor at Clinical Trials Week -- New study results on psychology have been published. [Extracted from the article]

Keywords for this news article include: University of Leicester, Data Structures, Information Technology, Information and Data Architecture. Keywords: Data Structures; Information Technology; Information and Data Architecture EN Data Structures Information Technology Information and Data Architecture 1570 1570 1 10/03/23 20231003 NES 231003 2023 OCT 2 (NewsRx) -- By a News Reporter-Staff News Editor at Clinical Trials Week -- Researchers detail new data in data structures. [Extracted from the article]

A researcher at the University of Zurich has published a study on teaching epidemiology using evidence-based coaching methods. The study suggests that traditional classroom teaching methods may not be the most effective approach for teaching core competencies in epidemiology. Instead, the study proposes a practice-based coaching approach using the framework of randomized controlled trials (RCTs). This approach allows students to design and conduct experiments, analyze data, and prepare scientific papers, providing them with valuable skills and competencies in epidemiology. The study concludes that this innovative format has the potential to be applied in diverse academic settings. [Extracted from the article]

Introduction: Children with juvenile arthritis (JA) experience pain, stiffness, fatigue, and decreased motion leading to difficulties with daily activities and low physical activity (PA). PA is critical to improve health and function and mitigate JA-associated symptoms. This study evaluated the evidence for PA interventions in children with JA. Materials and Methods: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of PA interventions in children with JA was conducted. Ovid (Medline), Cochrane Library, EMBASE, and CINAHL databases were searched for papers published in English between 1/1/1946 and 9/1/2021. Studies which concurrently assessed medical interventions were excluded. Participant and intervention characteristics and outcomes were extracted. Study internal validity and intervention attributes were assessed. Results: A total of 555 studies were identified, with 13 studies from 10 countries included. Data from 672 children diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) (range of mean ages, 8.7 to 16.1 years) were analyzed. Fifty-two percent of intervention arms incorporated strengthening exercise alone or combined with other exercise, with 61.9% performed 3x/week. About 43.5% of sessions lasted >45 to =60 minutes and 65.2% of programs were =12 to <28 weeks. PA interventions improved function and symptoms without adverse events. Intervention details were missing especially regarding PA intensity, reasons for dropouts, and adherence. Only two studies incorporated strategies to promote adherence. Discussion: RCTs of PA interventions in JA only include JIA. Available RCTs used mixed modes of interventions. Reporting of PA interventions lacks sufficient detail to discern the dose-response relationship. Strategies to motivate engagement in PA and to support families to promote PA are lacking, as are studies of long-term outcomes. Conclusion: There are limited RCTs of PA interventions in JIA. Adherence was better with low intensity programs. PA interventions for JIA yield positive health benefits but better reporting of PA intervention details is needed to generate more high-quality evidence and inform clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article explores the rise and fall of vitamin D as a health supplement. Initially believed to have numerous health benefits, including preventing cancer and cardiovascular disease, vitamin D supplements did not have the expected positive effects when tested in randomized controlled trials. The confusion surrounding vitamin D guidelines arises from conflicting recommendations from different medical groups. The issue of conflicts of interest has also been raised, as the lead author of the Endocrine Society guidelines has received significant funding from companies involved in making vitamin D supplements and tests. While vitamin D has not shown significant benefits in preventing cancer or heart disease, ongoing research is investigating its potential role in reducing the risk and severity of COVID-19. [Extracted from the article]

We first conduct an interaction test to determine whether treatment effect varies over time, and then propose a longitudinal rank-sum test to assess the main treatment effect either with or without the interaction. "To compare the multivariate longitudinal outcomes between two groups, the rank-sum test and the variance-adjusted rank-sum test can be used to test the treatment efficacy. "In this paper, we develop rank-based test procedures to detect global treatment efficacy in clinical trials with multiple longitudinal outcomes. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by investigators from the University of Maryland examined the effects of early parenting intervention on amygdala-prefrontal circuitry in middle childhood. The study involved 60 participants, including high-risk children who received the intervention and a control group, as well as a comparison sample of low-risk children. The results showed that the parenting intervention produced different changes in amygdala-prefrontal connectivity compared to the control intervention. The findings suggest that early parenting quality can causally affect brain circuitry and emotion regulation development in children. The study was supported by the NIH National Institute of Mental Health and has been peer-reviewed. [Extracted from the article]

The article reports on a mentoring program initiated by the group the American Economic Association's Committee on the Status of Women in the Economics Profession (CSWEP) known as the CSWEP Mentoring Program (CeMENT), which found in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that mentoring female assistant professors conducted by other professional women played a significant role in the success of women assistant professors.

While a growing literature analyzes the economic effects of cash for work programs in developing countries, there remains little evidence about the longer-term effects of these interventions. This paper presents findings from a randomized controlled trial evaluating a three month intervention providing public works employment in rural Tunisia. The evaluation design incorporates two dimensions of randomization - community-level randomization to treatment and control, and individual-level randomization among eligible individuals-and a sample of 2,718 individuals was tracked over five years. The findings suggest that cash for work leads to significant increases in labor market engagement, assets, consumption, financial inclusion, civic engagement, psychological well being, and women's empowerment one-year post-treatment; however, these effects have largely attenuated to zero five years post-treatment, with the exception of a positive effect on assets. There is also evidence of positive spillover effects within treatment communities, but these effects similarly attenuate over time. JEL codes: O12, O15. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Researchers from the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill have published a study on the design of dual randomized controlled trials (DRCTs) in type 2 hybrid effectiveness-implementation studies. DRCTs involve two randomized trials, one testing implementation strategies and the other testing an intervention. The researchers argue that this study design is efficient and can accelerate the translation of effective interventions into real-world practice. They provide a step-by-step explanation of the features of the design and recommendations for its use. The researchers hope that this paper will increase understanding of the DRCT design and encourage its use in future studies. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Melbourne aimed to identify and describe the characteristics of Randomised Control Trial (RCT) design, implementation, and interpretation in order to strengthen the cultural integrity and scientific quality of research involving Indigenous peoples. The study found that while RCTs are considered the gold standard for evaluating interventions, issues of cultural acceptability and higher attrition rates among diverse populations, including Indigenous participants, have been reported. The researchers concluded that attention to cultural integrity, community engagement, and methodological rigor can strengthen community ownership and improve the translation of study findings into policy and practice. [Extracted from the article]

David Morris explains how nurses can use research papers to improve their practice [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study conducted by researchers at Macquarie University in Sydney, Australia, has developed an eHealth system called eADVICE (electronic Advice and Diagnosis Via the Internet following Computerised Evaluation) to address long outpatient waiting times for pediatricians. Initially designed for children's incontinence, the system's success led to its adaptation for pediatric sleep problems. The study focused on user experiences and the development of a working alliance with the virtual doctor, and found promising results in terms of engagement and outcomes. The researchers concluded that the eADVICE framework can enhance access and self-efficacy during care delays for various pediatric conditions. [Extracted from the article]

A new review article published in Translational Psychiatry by researchers from University College London explores the processes in the brain and body through which physical exercise reduces symptoms of depression. The researchers propose a novel hypothesis that suggests the antidepressant effects of exercise may hinge on motivation, which is important for alleviating symptoms of depression such as anhedonia, low energy, and "brain fog." The team suggests that exercise reduces inflammation, boosts dopamine function, and enhances motivation, which could explain its antidepressant effect. The researchers hope that this understanding will inform the development of new treatment strategies for depression, such as personalized exercise programs. [Extracted from the article]

This article provides a comprehensive review of the guidelines for managing heart failure (HF) presented by the American College of Cardiology (ACC) and the current supporting evidence. The researchers conducted a thorough analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs), HF registries, and ACC guidelines to review the pharmacotherapy guidelines for HF. The study found that while there is limited consensus on treating HF with midrange ejection fraction (HFmrEF) and HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), large RCTs have provided compelling evidence supporting the use of recommended pharmacological agents. However, there is a need for improved coordination and optimization of HF management among clinicians. [Extracted from the article]

According to a preprint abstract from medrxiv.org, instrumental variable (IV) analysis is a commonly used technique in econometrics to estimate causal effects in the presence of confounding. The abstract discusses a recent application of this technique in a study published in JAMA Internal Medicine, which estimated the effect of cefepime, a broad-spectrum antibiotic, on mortality in severe infection. The authors used an international shortage of another antibiotic, piperacillin-tazobactam, as an instrument. However, the abstract suggests that the estimate of a strong mortality effect with piperacillin-tazobactam may be biased due to the inclusion of a control variable, metronidazole usage, which could lead to collider bias. The abstract recommends considering unadjusted estimates in the manuscript, as the reported increase in mortality with piperacillin-tazobactam may not be accurate. It is important to note that this preprint has not been peer-reviewed. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Messina in Italy has found that non-invasive brain stimulation techniques may be effective in treating tobacco use disorder. The researchers conducted a systematic review of randomized controlled trials and found that these techniques showed clinical benefits, including fast onset and minor side effects, which could be helpful for patients with a long history of smoking in terms of cessation and abstinence rates. The study provides valuable insights into potential treatments for nicotine addiction. For more information, readers can refer to the published article in AIMS Neuroscience. [Extracted from the article]

This paper presents a cost-effectiveness analysis (CEA) of paediatric ARV administration in Zambia using cotrimoxazole as a comparator. The CEA was facilitated by the paediatric formulations provided by the Indian company Cipla Limited for the CHAPAS (Children with HIV in Africa -- Pharmacokinetics and Adherence of Simple Antiretroviral Regimens) randomized controlled trials. The study design for ARVs was an open, randomised and controlled phase I and II trial, in which 220 children were recruited using a set of inclusive and exclusive criteria and randomised on the basis of 1:1 ratio. Two models were used for analysis: Cost-effectiveness analysis and the Markov stochastic model. The integrated results on a number of outcomes such as the CD4 distribution over time, cost estimates, estimates of transition probabilities, estimates of life expectancy, survival curves, incremental cost effectiveness ratios and net health benefits attest the dominance of the ARVs over cotrimoxazole and its high desirability of use as a vital complement to the comparator drug which has its own merit as a low-cost intervention.. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new report from George Washington University discusses the importance of addressing the psychosocial needs of young adult cancer survivors. The report highlights the limited research in this area and the need for interventions that focus on positive outcomes like well-being. The researchers have developed an 8-week digital, coach-assisted intervention targeting hope among young adult cancer survivors and have outlined the protocol for a randomized controlled trial. The study aims to increase the sample size and utilize diversified recruitment efforts to enhance the intervention's reach and scalability. The outcomes of the trial will assess feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy on hope and quality of life measures. The report concludes by emphasizing the significance of addressing the psychosocial challenges faced by young adult survivors and the potential impact of the trial results. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine examined the reporting of sociodemographic variables in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) for femoral acetabular impingement (FAI) and hip arthroscopy. The study found that age and sex or gender were consistently reported in these trials, but sociodemographic variables such as race, ethnicity, insurance status, income, housing status, work status, and education level were rarely included. The researchers suggest that the inclusion of sociodemographic data in RCTs is important for better generalization and application of results to the appropriate patient population. The study was published in Arthroscopy, Sports Medicine, and Rehabilitation. [Extracted from the article]

Objective Delirium is a very common and serious disorder with high morbidity and mortality. Despite symptomatic treatment the outcome can be poor for some especially when no underlying cause is identified. As a result, various strategies for delirium prevention have been assessed. Pharmacological agents such as antipsychotics, acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, sleep-wake cycle regulators, anti-inflammatories and others have been advocated for a potential role in delirium prevention. The aim of this paper is to review the available evidence for their use in the prevention of delirium. Methods An electronic search was carried out using Medline, EMBASE and Cochrane for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and other studies. The words delirium, prevention, intervention, pharmacological, prophylactic, antipsychotics, acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, sleep and anti-inflammatories were used. References from selected papers were also searched. Results No multi-centre RCT has been identified. Few trials and other studies have been published so far assessing the prophylactic role of antipsychotics, acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, hypnotics, melatonin, and gabapentin. As these studies tested different drugs, regimes and protocols in diverse populations no meaningful comparison can be made. Conclusion To date there is conflicting and inconsistent data regarding the efficacy of pharmacological treatment for delirium prevention. Positive reports in few of the studies justify further assessment of the potential for some pharmacological agents in the prevention of delirium. Well designed and appropriately powered RCTs are now needed. However, based on available evidence so far, no recommendation can be made to justify the routine clinical prophylactic use of any pharmacological agent in the prevention of delirium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Secondary outcomes presented in this paper included: all-cause hospitalisations, hospitalisations for diabetes/mental health problems/COPD, deaths, and emergency department visits. Keywords: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease; Clinical Research; Clinical Trials and Studies; Drugs and Therapies; Health and Medicine; Hospitals; Lung Diseases and Conditions; Mental Health Diseases and Conditions; Risk and Prevention EN Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Clinical Research Clinical Trials and Studies Drugs and Therapies Health and Medicine Hospitals Lung Diseases and Conditions Mental Health Diseases and Conditions Risk and Prevention 2023 JAN 30 (NewsRx) -- By a News Reporter-Staff News Editor at Mental Health Weekly Digest -- A new study on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is now available. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers from the University of Southern California (USC) focused on pressure injuries (PrI) in individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI). The study aimed to collect and reconcile PrI data to improve prevention and wound care. The research found that medical records were the most sensitive data source for detecting PrIs, followed by scheduled skin checks. The study concluded that when using multiple sources of information, careful reconciliation of reports is necessary for accuracy. This research has been peer-reviewed and is available in the Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. [Extracted from the article]

Some serology assays demonstrated useful for post-treatment monitoring of Strongyloides stercoralis infection. Serology frequently has low specificity, which might be improved by the use of recombinant antigens. The Strongy Detect ELISA is based on 2 recombinant antigens (SsIR and NIE) and proved good accuracy. Aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of this test for the post-treatment monitoring of strongyloidiasis. We tested 38 paired sera, with matched fecal tests results, stored in our biobank and originating from a randomized controlled trial. At baseline, all patients tested positive for at least 1 fecal assay among PCR, direct stool microscopy and agar plate culture. Patients were re-tested with both serology and fecal assays 12 months after treatment. Primary outcome was the relative reduction in optical density (OD) between baseline and follow up. We observed that about 95% samples showed a reduction between pre and post-treatment OD, with a median relative reduction of 93.9% (IQR 77.3%–98.1%). In conclusion, the test proved reliable for post-treatment monitoring. However, some technical issues, including that the threshold for positivity has not be predefined, and that a substantial number of samples showed overflow signals, need to be fixed to permit use in routine practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on a study led by researchers from the Rice University, Houston, Texas the University of Texas at San Antonio and Pennsylvania State University, Pennsylvania according to which Americans are more likely to donate to a charity. The paper is based on three studies, two from nationally representative samples of adults and another from a randomized experiment with students. The researchers presented participants with a description of the same charity.

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This article discusses a clinical trial, NCT06138821, that is investigating different treatments for patients with obesity, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and advanced fibrosis. The trial will compare the outcomes of endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) alone, the weight loss medication Semaglutide alone, and a combination of ESG and Semaglutide. The study will track weight loss, laboratory values, liver stiffness, and overall liver health to better understand the impact of these treatments on obesity and liver fibrosis. The article also provides a list of various studies and research papers related to obesity and its impact on health, offering library patrons a comprehensive list of resources for further exploration. Additionally, the article provides information about a clinical trial that is not yet recruiting participants, which aims to study the effectiveness of endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty as a treatment for obesity. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from University Hospital Basel in Switzerland highlights the importance of complete intra-operative image documentation in surgical randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The researchers argue that this documentation allows for the evaluation of the quality of intra-operative technical performance and enables secondary analysis and comparisons with similar cases. Access to complete intra-operative image data can improve publications, facilitate the selection process for readers, and serve as a valuable resource for learning. The researchers call for joint efforts by surgeons, scientific societies, publishers, and healthcare authorities to enhance the quality of surgical RCTs and bridge the gap between research findings and real-world applications. [Extracted from the article]

A diagnosis of advanced stage cancer is a difficult life event for the entire family. Previous studies have demonstrated the negative psychosocial outcomes associated with the burden of caregiving in conjunction with dysfunctional family relations. Family Focused Grief Therapy (FFGT) is a time-limited intervention that has been shown to be effective in aiding dysfunctional families through the promotion of family functioning, communication, cohesiveness, and conflict management. This paper outlines the content of FFGT therapy and highlights its unique aspects as well as the challenges of providing therapy to different types of families in the context of palliative care. FFGT shows promise as an effective intervention applicable across multiple settings in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jennifer L. Doleac and Anita Mukherjee are at it again. After last spring's publication of their working paper suggesting that providing naloxone, an overdose‐reversal drug, would just encourage more people to use fentanyl, they were roundly criticized by the public health research community (see ADAW, March 19). They said naloxone eliminated the "moral hazard" of opioid use. Both economists, they recently wrote a similar article published by the Brookings Institution, also suggesting that harm reduction in general, including syringe exchanges, promotes drug use and therefore contributes to overdoses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This follow-up study assessed the impact of a nitrate-rich diet on salivary nitrate/nitrite levels and the recovery of therapy-induced vascular impairments in a cohort of 39 periodontitis patients treated by standard subgingival mechanical plaque removal (PMPR). At baseline, saliva samples for nitrate/nitrite analysis were collected, and peripheral/central blood and augmentation pressure was documented using the Arteriograph recording system. Immediately after, PMPR vascular parameters were reassessed. All study patients received a randomly allocated supply of a lettuce beverage to be consumed for 14 days, containing either a daily dosage of 200 mg nitrate (test group, n = 20) or being void of nitrate (placebo group, n = 19). At day 14, salivary and vascular parameters were reassessed. Initial salivary and vascular parameters did not differ significantly between the groups. PMPR impaired all vascular parameters in both groups with no differences between the groups. At day 14, salivary nitrate/nitrite levels of the test group were significantly elevated compared to baseline. All vascular parameters had significantly recovered from the impairment inflicted by PMPR. In the placebo group, by contrast, salivary parameters did not differ significantly from baseline, and the recovery of impaired vascular parameters was restricted to a significant improvement of diastolic blood pressure. Correlation analysis identified a significant inverse correlation between salivary nitrate/nitrite sum and central/peripheral blood pressure and augmentation pressure. In conclusion, the data of this subanalysis suggest that increasing salivary nitrate/nitrite levels by a diet rich in nitrate may improve recovery of therapy-induced vascular impairments after PMPR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Findings in this study demonstrated that narrative therapy treatment effectively relieved oral cancer patients' sense of shame, reducing overall stigma and significantly improving self-esteem and social relationships. Keywords: Jinan; People's Republic of China; Asia; Cancer; Clinical Research; Clinical Trials and Studies; Health and Medicine; Mouth Neoplasms; Oncology; Oral Cancer; Psychological EN Jinan People's Republic of China Asia Cancer Clinical Research Clinical Trials and Studies Health and Medicine Mouth Neoplasms Oncology Oral Cancer Psychological 162 162 1 04/24/23 20230424 NES 230424 2023 APR 25 (NewsRx) -- By a News Reporter-Staff News Editor at Clinical Trials Week -- Data detailed on Oncology - Oral Cancer have been presented. [Extracted from the article]