The purpose of this study was to assess the differences in clinical and sonographic features of papillary thyroid carcinoma（PTC） between cervical lymph node metastatic（CLNM） and nonmetastatic groups.Clinical data ...The purpose of this study was to assess the differences in clinical and sonographic features of papillary thyroid carcinoma（PTC） between cervical lymph node metastatic（CLNM） and nonmetastatic groups.Clinical data of PTC patients（414 patients with 624 malignant nodules） who underwent a preoperative ultrasonography and surgery between June 2010 and March 2015 at Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University were retrospectively analyzed.Clinical factors,preoperative ultrasound features and the final pathological findings were obtained.The differences in the sonographic features of PTC between the CLNM group and the non-CLNM group were analyzed.There were 187 CLNM and 227 non-CLNM patients.The median age at the diagnosis of this cohort was 45.4 years old（ranging from 18 to 77 years）.Ultrasonographic parameters that were significantly associated with CLNM [OR=2.569（1.502,4.393）,P〈0.001）] were as follows：the mulifocality of the nodules,size over 2 cm,the presence of microcalcifications,the distance ratio（DR） pattern showing the contact of the nodules with the thyroid capsule,and the extracapsular spread of the nodules.No significant differences in age,gender,thyroid stimulating hormone（TSH） levels and other ultrasonography parameters were found between the CLNM and the non-CLNM groups.Therefore,our results suggest that a larger size,microcalcifications,mulifocality,and the DR pattern showing the contact of the nodules with the thyroid capsule and extracapsular spread are significantly more indicative of CLNM in PTC.展开更多
Currently, pharmaceutical preparations are serious contributors to liver disease; hepatotoxicity ranking as the most frequent cause for acute liver failure and post-commercialization regulatory decisions. The diagnosi...Currently, pharmaceutical preparations are serious contributors to liver disease; hepatotoxicity ranking as the most frequent cause for acute liver failure and post-commercialization regulatory decisions. The diagnosis of hepatotoxicity remains a difficult task because of the lack of reliable markers for use in general clinical practice. To incriminate any given drug in an episode of liver dysfunction is a step-by-step process that requires a high degree of suspicion, compatible chronology, awareness of the drug’s hepatotoxic potential, the exclusion of alternative causes of liver damage and the ability to detect the presence of subtle data that favors a toxic etiology. This process is time-consuming and the final result is frequently inaccurate. Diagnostic algorithms may add consistency to the diagnostic process by translating the suspicion into a quantitative score. Such scales are useful since they provide a framework that emphasizes the features that merit attention in cases of suspected hepatic adverse reaction as well. Current efforts in collecting bona fide cases of drug-induced hepatotoxicity will make refinements of existing scales feasible. It is now relatively easy to accommodate relevant data within the scoring system and to delete low-impact items. Efforts should also be directed toward the development of an abridged instrument for use in evaluating suspected drug-induced hepatotoxicity at the very beginning of the diagnosis and treatment process when clinical decisions need to be made. The instrument chosen would enable a confident diagnosis to be made on admission of the patient and treatment to be fine-tuned as further information is collected.展开更多
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD)is among the most frequent etiologies of cirrhosis worldwide,and it is associated with features of metabolic syndrome;the key factor influencing its prognosis is the progression...Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD)is among the most frequent etiologies of cirrhosis worldwide,and it is associated with features of metabolic syndrome;the key factor influencing its prognosis is the progression of liver fibrosis.This review aimed to propose a practical and stepwise approach to the evaluation and management of liver fibrosis in patients with NAFLD,analyzing the currently available literature.In the assessment of NAFLD patients,it is important to identify clinical,genetic,and environmental determinants of fibrosis development and its progression.To properly detect fibrosis,it is important to take into account the available methods and their supporting scientific evidence to guide the approach and the sequential selection of the best available biochemical scores,followed by a complementary imaging study(transient elastography,magnetic resonance elastography or acoustic radiation force impulse)and finally a liver biopsy,when needed.To help with the selection of the most appropriate method a Fagan′s nomogram analysis is provided in this review,describing the diagnostic yield of each method and their post-test probability of detecting liver fibrosis.Finally,treatment should always include diet and exercise,as well as controlling the components of the metabolic syndrome,+/-vitamin E,considering the presence of sleep apnea,and when available,allocate those patients with advanced fibrosis or high risk of progression into clinical trials.The final end of this approach should be to establish an opportune diagnosis and treatment of liver fibrosis in patients with NAFLD,aiming to decrease/stop its progression and improve their prognosis.展开更多
Background: Assessment is the systematic collection, review, and use of information about educational programs undertaken to improve teaching and learning. It ensures quality in training programmes, motivates, and dir...Background: Assessment is the systematic collection, review, and use of information about educational programs undertaken to improve teaching and learning. It ensures quality in training programmes, motivates, and directs students’ learning. Assessment is also used for verification of achievement of objectives of training, feedback to students, licencing, certification, and screening of students for advanced training. It is guided by several principles, including the aims of the assessment (why assess), who to assess, timing (when to assess), what to assess, methods (how to assess), and the criteria for determining the usefulness of the assessment. Objective: To describe the assessment methods used during clinical years of the undergraduate programme at Moi University School of Medicine (MUSOM) and determine the student’s perspectives concerning the comprehensiveness, relevance, objectivity of various assessment methods and challenges faced. Methodology: The study was carried out at MUSOM and a cross-sectional study design was employed. Ten study participants were studied using convenience sampling. Data were collected using an interview guide and was analyzed using content analysis. An informed consent was obtained from the study participants. Results: The methods used during clinical years at MUSOM for assessing knowledge and its applications include multiple-choice questions (MCQ), short answer questions (SAQ), modified essay questions (MEQ), long essay questions (LEQ), and oral exam. Whereas the methods for assessing clinical competence include long case, short cases, objective structured clinical examinations (OSCE), and logbook. Students felt that MCQs were comprehensive, objective, and relevant to the curriculum content. They reported that feedback was not provided after assessments. Conclusion: The assessment methods used at MUSOM during clinical years include MCQ, SAQ, MEQ, LEQ, Short cases, long cases, and OSCE. Students reported varied perceptions of the different assessment methods but favored MCQ and OSCE over other formats for assessing knowledge and clinical skills respectively.展开更多
Objective: The assessment indicators of postpartum hemorrhage(PPH) were systematically reviewed to explore their relationship with blood loss as an early warning sign to identify potential PPH for prompt intervention....Objective: The assessment indicators of postpartum hemorrhage(PPH) were systematically reviewed to explore their relationship with blood loss as an early warning sign to identify potential PPH for prompt intervention.Methods: A systematic literature search of 9 databases was conducted according to inclusion and exclusion criteria using a comprehensive strategy. Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology(STROBE) strategy was chosen as the tool for quality assessment of included studies, and data concerning the basic study characteristics and assessment indicators were extracted.Results: Eleven studies were included in this review. The assessment indicators in different reports covered heart rate, blood pressure, placental and birth canal check, hemoglobin(Hb), hematocrit(HCT),coagulation function tests, hemodynamic parameters and arterial blood gas, but no data on the assessment of postpartum uterine contraction were found. The relationship between indicators and blood loss varies.The overall quality of 9 manuscripts was comparatively high or moderate, and 2 were rated as low.Conclusions: The association between blood loss and clinical symptoms is not conclusive based on the present studies, and specific cut-off points could not be formulated to determine the approximate amount of blood loss. However, some cut-off points can be considered warning signs for the need of advanced interventions, such as heart rate, prothrombin time, and placental implantation. Further research on comprehensive assessment and cut-off points should be performed such that birth attendants can distinguish PPH as early as possible.展开更多
According to the Buddhist philosophy, hatred （dosa） is considered as one of the three unwholesome roots which determine the actual immoral quality of volitional states and a conscious thought with its mental factors...According to the Buddhist philosophy, hatred （dosa） is considered as one of the three unwholesome roots which determine the actual immoral quality of volitional states and a conscious thought with its mental factors. Hatred, then, comprises all degrees of repulsion from the faintest trace of ill-humour up to the highest pitch of hate and wrath. Thus, ill-will, evil intention, wickedness, corruption and malice are various expressions and degrees ofdosa. A hateful temperament is said to be due to a predominance of the type of dosa, apo, vayu and semha. Vedic psychology forms the clinical core of mental health counseling in the Ayurvedic medical tradition. According to Ayurvedic medical practises, a person is dominated on one of constitutes type （type ofdosa） namely vata （vayu）, pita （apo） or kapha （semha）. This is known as prakurthi pariksha. Important aspect of identification of constitute type is for diagnosis of mental diseases, because each of constituent type has a list of probable mental diseases. An important area of expertise for many clinical psychologists is psychological assessment. Constructions of information systems using psychological assessment in clinical psychology have a problem of effective communication because of implicit knowledge. This complicates the effective communication of clinical data to the psychologist. In this paper, it presents an approach to modeling commonsense knowledge in clinical psychology in Ayurvedic medicine. It gives three-phase an approach for modeling commonsense knowledge in psychological assessment which enables holistic approach for clinical psychology. Evaluation of the system has shown 77% accuracy.展开更多
Objective:To ensure that only competent graduates are licensed to practice nursing,councils conduct licensing examinations,which may include among others clinical competency assessment.This review explored current pra...Objective:To ensure that only competent graduates are licensed to practice nursing,councils conduct licensing examinations,which may include among others clinical competency assessment.This review explored current practices in clinical competency assessment of nursing students as part of a larger study aimed at developing an evidence-based,context-specific framework for clinical competency assessment in a sub-Saharan African(SSA)country.Methods:A scoping guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews(PRISMA-ScR)was conducted.Results:Findings from 28 out of 1151 studies identified from Scopus,PubMed,CINAHL,Wiley Online Library,and ProQuest were included and synthesized.Results show that a good assessment system must be valid,reliable,transparent,feasible,fair,objective,and must provide feedback and continually improve to have an educational impact.Clinical competency assessment systems must be developed on sound empirical evidence,pilot tested,and involve thorough training and evaluation of the examiners.Continuous evaluation of the assessment system is also essential to ensure the quality and relevance of the assessment system.Only one of the included studies was conducted in Africa.Conclusions:The paucity of clinical competency assessment research in sub-Saharan Africa may lead to benchmarking assessment systems on research conducted outside the context.Sub-Saharan Africa has a set of circumstances that demand a context-specific clinical competency assessment framework to guide clinical competency assessment.展开更多
In recent years, with the continuous development of medical technology, human beings have made great achievements in the fight against tumor diseases, and a variety of anti-tumor drugs continue to appear. However, we ...In recent years, with the continuous development of medical technology, human beings have made great achievements in the fight against tumor diseases, and a variety of anti-tumor drugs continue to appear. However, we need to realize that under the influence of the characteristics of drugs and the actual situation of patients, anti-tumor drugs have great risks in the actual clinical trials. Based on this, this paper studies the natural risk and human risk factors in drug clinical trials, and discusses the measures to deal with the risk of drug clinical trials from different aspects, hoping to provide reference for medical workers.展开更多
Osteoarthritis(OA)is a degenerative joint disease with significant clinical and societal impact.Traditional diagnostic methods,including subjective clinical assessments and imaging techniques such as X-rays and MRIs,a...Osteoarthritis(OA)is a degenerative joint disease with significant clinical and societal impact.Traditional diagnostic methods,including subjective clinical assessments and imaging techniques such as X-rays and MRIs,are often limited in their ability to detect early-stage OA or capture subtle joint changes.These limitations result in delayed diagnoses and inconsistent outcomes.Additionally,the analysis of omics data is challenged by the complexity and high dimensionality of biological datasets,making it difficult to identify key molecular mechanisms and biomarkers.Recent advancements in artificial intelligence(AI)offer transformative potential to address these challenges.This review systematically explores the integration of AI into OA research,focusing on applications such as AI-driven early screening and risk prediction from electronic health records(EHR),automated grading and morphological analysis of imaging data,and biomarker discovery through multi-omics integration.By consolidating progress across clinical,imaging,and omics domains,this review provides a comprehensive perspective on how AI is reshaping OA research.The findings have the potential to drive innovations in personalized medicine and targeted interventions,addressing longstanding challenges in OA diagnosis and management.展开更多
Objective: To assess the quality of the first batch of Chinese evidence-based clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation (AG...Objective: To assess the quality of the first batch of Chinese evidence-based clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation (AGREE) instrument. Methods: Evidence-based CPGs in TCM supported by the World Health Organization Western Pacific Regional Office (WHO/WPRO) and whose development was organized by the China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences were identified and manually retrieved. CPGs were assessed using the AGREE instrument, and the data in each CPG were analyzed in terms of the six domains in the AGREE instrument: scope and purpose, stakeholder involvement, rigor of development, clarity and presentation, applicability, and editorial independence. Results: Twenty-eight CPGs were identified, of which 26 were included in the study. The AGREE instrument rated the 26 CPGs in terms of the six domains. The assessment results showed the following average scores: for editorial independence, 84.16%; for rigor of development, 80.95%; for scope and purpose, 79.96%; for clarity and presentation, 70.88%; for stakeholder involvement, 61.28%; for applicability, the average score was only 27.09%. In summary, nine CPGs were rated as "strongly recommended", six as "recommended with provision or alternation", and 11 as "unsure". Conclusion: Most of the first batch of Chinese evidence-based CPGs in TCM had significant shortcomings in applicability. It is suggested that special attention be paid to enhancing the quality of applicability when developing evidence-based CPGs in TCM.展开更多
BACKGROUND Rectal cancer management is currently evolving with the advent of different neoadjuvant treatment strategies and organ preservation strategies.A significant proportion of patients could achieve complete cli...BACKGROUND Rectal cancer management is currently evolving with the advent of different neoadjuvant treatment strategies and organ preservation strategies.A significant proportion of patients could achieve complete clinical response after neoadjuvant treatment,which often translates to pathologic complete response(pCR)as assessed on surgical specimens after curative intent surgery.Endoscopy plays a significant role in assessing treatment response to neoadjuvant therapies.AIM To explore the role of endoscopy in predicting subsequent pCR after neoadjuvant treatment in rectal cancer patients.METHODS An extensive literature review was undertaken to identify the criteria used for assessment of endoscopic response and their ability to predict pCR.RESULTS Fifteen studies were identified through literature review.The most commonly used endoscopic criteria for evaluation included the presence of a flat white scar and the absence of nodularity or telangiectasia.Information on the timing of endoscopic assessment in relation to neoadjuvant treatment protocols were also extracted from the studies.In most studies,the diagnostic accuracy for predicting pCR exceeded 0.8.The main limitations identified were the retrospective design of included studies included and a moderate risk of bias.CONCLUSION Endoscopy can be a key prognostic factor in predicting pCR to neoadjuvant treatment in rectal cancer despite significant limitations in currently available data.展开更多
BACKGROUND As the global population ages,the number of elderly patients with acute coronary syndrome(ACS)rises.However,prognostic assessment tools for elderly patients with ACS remain lacking,particularly in the Chine...BACKGROUND As the global population ages,the number of elderly patients with acute coronary syndrome(ACS)rises.However,prognostic assessment tools for elderly patients with ACS remain lacking,particularly in the Chinese population.This study aimed to develop and validate a nomogram to predict 2-year major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events(MACCE)in elderly Chinese patients with ACS.METHODS A retrospective analysis was conducted using two independent cohorts of ACS patients aged≥65 years who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention:the derivation cohort(n=1674)and the validation cohort(n=2333).Candidate predictors were selected using multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression and the Akaike information criterion.A final nomogram incorporating ten variables was constructed.Model performance was evaluated in terms of discrimination[concordance index(C-index)and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve(AUC)]and calibration(calibration plots).RESULTS The 2-year incidence of MACCE was 12.5%(n=210)in the derivation cohort and 15.6%(n=364)in the validation cohort.The nomogram demonstrated good discrimination,with C-index values of 0.727 and 0.661 and AUCs of 0.723 and 0.699 in the derivation cohort and the validation cohort,respectively;significantly outperforming the GRACE risk score(P<0.001).Calibration plots showed good agreement between the predicted and observed outcomes.Patients classified as the high-risk group by the nomogram had a significantly higher MACCE incidence compared to that of the low-risk group(log-rank P<0.001).CONCLUSIONS This newly developed nomogram provides a reliable tool for individualized prediction of the 2-year MACCE risk in elderly Chinese patients with ACS who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention.It outperformed the GRACE score in both discrimmination and calibration and may help improve clinical decision-making and personalized risk stratification in this vulnerable population.展开更多
Introduction The immune system is the cornerstone of human health,with most diseases and health conditions closely related to immune status.Therefore,immune status management is a core health issue.In recent years,sig...Introduction The immune system is the cornerstone of human health,with most diseases and health conditions closely related to immune status.Therefore,immune status management is a core health issue.In recent years,significant research breakthroughs in immunosuppressants,immune cell therapy,and immune checkpoint inhibitors have enabled clinical experts and researchers to effectively modulate immune status and regulate immunity more efficient.Key questions in the field of immunology include:How can immune function be visually assessed?What constitutes normal immune cell function status?How can immune cell function status be quantitatively evaluated?How can a standardized system for assessing immune cell function status be established?Currently,there is no consensus on these issues worldwide.On August 28,2023,the National Natural Science Foundation of China announced the National Major Research Plan:Immune Power Digital Decoding Research.Traditional research models have failed to systematically reveal the generation and evolution of immune power.展开更多
Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the perceptions of students, lecturers, nurses and clinical lecturers regarding the ability of the National Clinical Final Examination (NCFE) to assess clinical c...Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the perceptions of students, lecturers, nurses and clinical lecturers regarding the ability of the National Clinical Final Examination (NCFE) to assess clinical competence, and whether the assessment was consistent with the qualifications for a Bachelor of Science in Nursing as outlined by the Swedish Higher Education Authority. The NCFE is divided into two parts (written and bedside) and aims to evaluate third-year nursing students’ clinical competence. Methods: Data were collected at 10 universities using study-specific questionnaires. The total response rate was 84% (n = 1652). Results: The clinical lecturers indicated that there was a need for improvement in the written part of the examination in order to adequately assess clinical competence. Regarding the bedside part the clinical lecturers, nurses and students perceived that the bedside part of the examination assessed whether the student had the clinical competence required by a newly registered nurse. Conclusion: The two-part examination described in this study was perceived as useful for assessing clinical competence and for the qualification requirements for a Bachelor of Science in Nursing as outlined by the Swedish Higher Education Authority. However, especially the written part requires further development. The model and form of assessment ought to be applicable to graduate nursing programme internationally.展开更多
This review summarises the key points in taking a history and performing a comprehensive clinical examination for patients with foot and/or ankle problems. It is a useful guide for residents who are preparing for thei...This review summarises the key points in taking a history and performing a comprehensive clinical examination for patients with foot and/or ankle problems. It is a useful guide for residents who are preparing for their specialty exams, as well as family doctors and any other doctor who has to deal with foot and ankle problems in adults.展开更多
Clinical trial outcome reporting differs between studies integrating traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)and Western medicine, so that some clinical trials are not eligible for inclusion in a systematic review.The exclud...Clinical trial outcome reporting differs between studies integrating traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)and Western medicine, so that some clinical trials are not eligible for inclusion in a systematic review.The excluded studies are therefore less widely disseminated, and even valid studies are less likely to yield impact. This problem may be addressed by developing core outcome sets(COSs) for integrative medicine in specific healthcare areas. The first stage of development is to define the scope of the COS for integrative medicine, the second stage is to establish the need for such a COS, and the third stage is to develop a protocol and register the COS. The final stage involves three steps:(i) development of a comprehensive list of outcomes(including efficacy outcomes and safety outcomes and TCM syndromes) using systematic review, qualitative or cross-sectional research, and reviews of package inserts and medical records;(ii) merging and grouping of outcomes within domains;(iii) conducting two rounds of Delphi survey and consensus meetings with a range of stakeholders. The final COS will include a general COS and core TCM syndrome-set. Development of COSs for clinical trials of integrative medicine may help to standardize outcome reporting and reduce publication bias in the future.展开更多
Student engagement in a clinical learning environment is a vital component in the curricula of pre-licensure nursing students, providing an opportunity to combine cognitive, psychomotor, and affective skills. This pap...Student engagement in a clinical learning environment is a vital component in the curricula of pre-licensure nursing students, providing an opportunity to combine cognitive, psychomotor, and affective skills. This paper is significant in Arab world as there is a lack of knowledge, attitude and practice of student involvement in the new clinical learning environment. The purpose of this review article is to describe the experiences and perspectives of the nurse educator in facilitating pre-licensure nursing students’ engagement in the new clinical learning environment. The review suggests that novice students prefer actual engagement in clinical learning facilitated through diversity experiences, shared learning opportunities, student-faculty interaction and active learning. They expressed continuous supervision, ongoing feedback, interpersonal relationship and personal support from nurse educators useful in the clinical practice. However, the value of this review lies in a better understanding of what constitutes quality clinical learning environment from the students’ perspective of engagement in evidence-based nursing, reflective practice, e-learning and simulated case scenarios facilitated by the nurse educators. This review is valuable in planning and implementing innovative clinical and educational experiences for improving the quality of the clinical teaching-learning environment.展开更多
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.81471781,No.81502665 and No.81302314/H1622)the Fundamental Research Funds of Health and Family Planning Commission of Hubei Province(No.JS-20110118)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities of China(No.2042014kf0189)
文摘The purpose of this study was to assess the differences in clinical and sonographic features of papillary thyroid carcinoma（PTC） between cervical lymph node metastatic（CLNM） and nonmetastatic groups.Clinical data of PTC patients（414 patients with 624 malignant nodules） who underwent a preoperative ultrasonography and surgery between June 2010 and March 2015 at Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University were retrospectively analyzed.Clinical factors,preoperative ultrasound features and the final pathological findings were obtained.The differences in the sonographic features of PTC between the CLNM group and the non-CLNM group were analyzed.There were 187 CLNM and 227 non-CLNM patients.The median age at the diagnosis of this cohort was 45.4 years old（ranging from 18 to 77 years）.Ultrasonographic parameters that were significantly associated with CLNM [OR=2.569（1.502,4.393）,P〈0.001）] were as follows：the mulifocality of the nodules,size over 2 cm,the presence of microcalcifications,the distance ratio（DR） pattern showing the contact of the nodules with the thyroid capsule,and the extracapsular spread of the nodules.No significant differences in age,gender,thyroid stimulating hormone（TSH） levels and other ultrasonography parameters were found between the CLNM and the non-CLNM groups.Therefore,our results suggest that a larger size,microcalcifications,mulifocality,and the DR pattern showing the contact of the nodules with the thyroid capsule and extracapsular spread are significantly more indicative of CLNM in PTC.
基金Supported partly by research grants from the Agencia Espaoladel Medicamento from the Fondo de Investigación Sanitaria(FIS 04-1688 and FIS 04-1759)
文摘Currently, pharmaceutical preparations are serious contributors to liver disease; hepatotoxicity ranking as the most frequent cause for acute liver failure and post-commercialization regulatory decisions. The diagnosis of hepatotoxicity remains a difficult task because of the lack of reliable markers for use in general clinical practice. To incriminate any given drug in an episode of liver dysfunction is a step-by-step process that requires a high degree of suspicion, compatible chronology, awareness of the drug’s hepatotoxic potential, the exclusion of alternative causes of liver damage and the ability to detect the presence of subtle data that favors a toxic etiology. This process is time-consuming and the final result is frequently inaccurate. Diagnostic algorithms may add consistency to the diagnostic process by translating the suspicion into a quantitative score. Such scales are useful since they provide a framework that emphasizes the features that merit attention in cases of suspected hepatic adverse reaction as well. Current efforts in collecting bona fide cases of drug-induced hepatotoxicity will make refinements of existing scales feasible. It is now relatively easy to accommodate relevant data within the scoring system and to delete low-impact items. Efforts should also be directed toward the development of an abridged instrument for use in evaluating suspected drug-induced hepatotoxicity at the very beginning of the diagnosis and treatment process when clinical decisions need to be made. The instrument chosen would enable a confident diagnosis to be made on admission of the patient and treatment to be fine-tuned as further information is collected.
文摘Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD)is among the most frequent etiologies of cirrhosis worldwide,and it is associated with features of metabolic syndrome;the key factor influencing its prognosis is the progression of liver fibrosis.This review aimed to propose a practical and stepwise approach to the evaluation and management of liver fibrosis in patients with NAFLD,analyzing the currently available literature.In the assessment of NAFLD patients,it is important to identify clinical,genetic,and environmental determinants of fibrosis development and its progression.To properly detect fibrosis,it is important to take into account the available methods and their supporting scientific evidence to guide the approach and the sequential selection of the best available biochemical scores,followed by a complementary imaging study(transient elastography,magnetic resonance elastography or acoustic radiation force impulse)and finally a liver biopsy,when needed.To help with the selection of the most appropriate method a Fagan′s nomogram analysis is provided in this review,describing the diagnostic yield of each method and their post-test probability of detecting liver fibrosis.Finally,treatment should always include diet and exercise,as well as controlling the components of the metabolic syndrome,+/-vitamin E,considering the presence of sleep apnea,and when available,allocate those patients with advanced fibrosis or high risk of progression into clinical trials.The final end of this approach should be to establish an opportune diagnosis and treatment of liver fibrosis in patients with NAFLD,aiming to decrease/stop its progression and improve their prognosis.
文摘Background: Assessment is the systematic collection, review, and use of information about educational programs undertaken to improve teaching and learning. It ensures quality in training programmes, motivates, and directs students’ learning. Assessment is also used for verification of achievement of objectives of training, feedback to students, licencing, certification, and screening of students for advanced training. It is guided by several principles, including the aims of the assessment (why assess), who to assess, timing (when to assess), what to assess, methods (how to assess), and the criteria for determining the usefulness of the assessment. Objective: To describe the assessment methods used during clinical years of the undergraduate programme at Moi University School of Medicine (MUSOM) and determine the student’s perspectives concerning the comprehensiveness, relevance, objectivity of various assessment methods and challenges faced. Methodology: The study was carried out at MUSOM and a cross-sectional study design was employed. Ten study participants were studied using convenience sampling. Data were collected using an interview guide and was analyzed using content analysis. An informed consent was obtained from the study participants. Results: The methods used during clinical years at MUSOM for assessing knowledge and its applications include multiple-choice questions (MCQ), short answer questions (SAQ), modified essay questions (MEQ), long essay questions (LEQ), and oral exam. Whereas the methods for assessing clinical competence include long case, short cases, objective structured clinical examinations (OSCE), and logbook. Students felt that MCQs were comprehensive, objective, and relevant to the curriculum content. They reported that feedback was not provided after assessments. Conclusion: The assessment methods used at MUSOM during clinical years include MCQ, SAQ, MEQ, LEQ, Short cases, long cases, and OSCE. Students reported varied perceptions of the different assessment methods but favored MCQ and OSCE over other formats for assessing knowledge and clinical skills respectively.
基金supported by Shanghai Nursing Association(No.2016SD-B03)
文摘Objective: The assessment indicators of postpartum hemorrhage(PPH) were systematically reviewed to explore their relationship with blood loss as an early warning sign to identify potential PPH for prompt intervention.Methods: A systematic literature search of 9 databases was conducted according to inclusion and exclusion criteria using a comprehensive strategy. Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology(STROBE) strategy was chosen as the tool for quality assessment of included studies, and data concerning the basic study characteristics and assessment indicators were extracted.Results: Eleven studies were included in this review. The assessment indicators in different reports covered heart rate, blood pressure, placental and birth canal check, hemoglobin(Hb), hematocrit(HCT),coagulation function tests, hemodynamic parameters and arterial blood gas, but no data on the assessment of postpartum uterine contraction were found. The relationship between indicators and blood loss varies.The overall quality of 9 manuscripts was comparatively high or moderate, and 2 were rated as low.Conclusions: The association between blood loss and clinical symptoms is not conclusive based on the present studies, and specific cut-off points could not be formulated to determine the approximate amount of blood loss. However, some cut-off points can be considered warning signs for the need of advanced interventions, such as heart rate, prothrombin time, and placental implantation. Further research on comprehensive assessment and cut-off points should be performed such that birth attendants can distinguish PPH as early as possible.
文摘According to the Buddhist philosophy, hatred （dosa） is considered as one of the three unwholesome roots which determine the actual immoral quality of volitional states and a conscious thought with its mental factors. Hatred, then, comprises all degrees of repulsion from the faintest trace of ill-humour up to the highest pitch of hate and wrath. Thus, ill-will, evil intention, wickedness, corruption and malice are various expressions and degrees ofdosa. A hateful temperament is said to be due to a predominance of the type of dosa, apo, vayu and semha. Vedic psychology forms the clinical core of mental health counseling in the Ayurvedic medical tradition. According to Ayurvedic medical practises, a person is dominated on one of constitutes type （type ofdosa） namely vata （vayu）, pita （apo） or kapha （semha）. This is known as prakurthi pariksha. Important aspect of identification of constitute type is for diagnosis of mental diseases, because each of constituent type has a list of probable mental diseases. An important area of expertise for many clinical psychologists is psychological assessment. Constructions of information systems using psychological assessment in clinical psychology have a problem of effective communication because of implicit knowledge. This complicates the effective communication of clinical data to the psychologist. In this paper, it presents an approach to modeling commonsense knowledge in clinical psychology in Ayurvedic medicine. It gives three-phase an approach for modeling commonsense knowledge in psychological assessment which enables holistic approach for clinical psychology. Evaluation of the system has shown 77% accuracy.
文摘Objective:To ensure that only competent graduates are licensed to practice nursing,councils conduct licensing examinations,which may include among others clinical competency assessment.This review explored current practices in clinical competency assessment of nursing students as part of a larger study aimed at developing an evidence-based,context-specific framework for clinical competency assessment in a sub-Saharan African(SSA)country.Methods:A scoping guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews(PRISMA-ScR)was conducted.Results:Findings from 28 out of 1151 studies identified from Scopus,PubMed,CINAHL,Wiley Online Library,and ProQuest were included and synthesized.Results show that a good assessment system must be valid,reliable,transparent,feasible,fair,objective,and must provide feedback and continually improve to have an educational impact.Clinical competency assessment systems must be developed on sound empirical evidence,pilot tested,and involve thorough training and evaluation of the examiners.Continuous evaluation of the assessment system is also essential to ensure the quality and relevance of the assessment system.Only one of the included studies was conducted in Africa.Conclusions:The paucity of clinical competency assessment research in sub-Saharan Africa may lead to benchmarking assessment systems on research conducted outside the context.Sub-Saharan Africa has a set of circumstances that demand a context-specific clinical competency assessment framework to guide clinical competency assessment.
文摘In recent years, with the continuous development of medical technology, human beings have made great achievements in the fight against tumor diseases, and a variety of anti-tumor drugs continue to appear. However, we need to realize that under the influence of the characteristics of drugs and the actual situation of patients, anti-tumor drugs have great risks in the actual clinical trials. Based on this, this paper studies the natural risk and human risk factors in drug clinical trials, and discusses the measures to deal with the risk of drug clinical trials from different aspects, hoping to provide reference for medical workers.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82302757)Shenzhen Science and Technology Program(JCY20240813145204006,SGDX20201103095600002,JCYJ20220818103417037,KJZD20230923115200002)+1 种基金Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Digital Surgical Printing Project(ZDSYS201707311542415)Shenzhen Development and Reform Program(XMHT20220106001).
文摘Osteoarthritis(OA)is a degenerative joint disease with significant clinical and societal impact.Traditional diagnostic methods,including subjective clinical assessments and imaging techniques such as X-rays and MRIs,are often limited in their ability to detect early-stage OA or capture subtle joint changes.These limitations result in delayed diagnoses and inconsistent outcomes.Additionally,the analysis of omics data is challenged by the complexity and high dimensionality of biological datasets,making it difficult to identify key molecular mechanisms and biomarkers.Recent advancements in artificial intelligence(AI)offer transformative potential to address these challenges.This review systematically explores the integration of AI into OA research,focusing on applications such as AI-driven early screening and risk prediction from electronic health records(EHR),automated grading and morphological analysis of imaging data,and biomarker discovery through multi-omics integration.By consolidating progress across clinical,imaging,and omics domains,this review provides a comprehensive perspective on how AI is reshaping OA research.The findings have the potential to drive innovations in personalized medicine and targeted interventions,addressing longstanding challenges in OA diagnosis and management.
基金supported by projects from the China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences (No.Z0135)the State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine (No. ZYYS-2008)the National Science Foundation of China (No. 30825047)
文摘Objective: To assess the quality of the first batch of Chinese evidence-based clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation (AGREE) instrument. Methods: Evidence-based CPGs in TCM supported by the World Health Organization Western Pacific Regional Office (WHO/WPRO) and whose development was organized by the China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences were identified and manually retrieved. CPGs were assessed using the AGREE instrument, and the data in each CPG were analyzed in terms of the six domains in the AGREE instrument: scope and purpose, stakeholder involvement, rigor of development, clarity and presentation, applicability, and editorial independence. Results: Twenty-eight CPGs were identified, of which 26 were included in the study. The AGREE instrument rated the 26 CPGs in terms of the six domains. The assessment results showed the following average scores: for editorial independence, 84.16%; for rigor of development, 80.95%; for scope and purpose, 79.96%; for clarity and presentation, 70.88%; for stakeholder involvement, 61.28%; for applicability, the average score was only 27.09%. In summary, nine CPGs were rated as "strongly recommended", six as "recommended with provision or alternation", and 11 as "unsure". Conclusion: Most of the first batch of Chinese evidence-based CPGs in TCM had significant shortcomings in applicability. It is suggested that special attention be paid to enhancing the quality of applicability when developing evidence-based CPGs in TCM.
文摘BACKGROUND Rectal cancer management is currently evolving with the advent of different neoadjuvant treatment strategies and organ preservation strategies.A significant proportion of patients could achieve complete clinical response after neoadjuvant treatment,which often translates to pathologic complete response(pCR)as assessed on surgical specimens after curative intent surgery.Endoscopy plays a significant role in assessing treatment response to neoadjuvant therapies.AIM To explore the role of endoscopy in predicting subsequent pCR after neoadjuvant treatment in rectal cancer patients.METHODS An extensive literature review was undertaken to identify the criteria used for assessment of endoscopic response and their ability to predict pCR.RESULTS Fifteen studies were identified through literature review.The most commonly used endoscopic criteria for evaluation included the presence of a flat white scar and the absence of nodularity or telangiectasia.Information on the timing of endoscopic assessment in relation to neoadjuvant treatment protocols were also extracted from the studies.In most studies,the diagnostic accuracy for predicting pCR exceeded 0.8.The main limitations identified were the retrospective design of included studies included and a moderate risk of bias.CONCLUSION Endoscopy can be a key prognostic factor in predicting pCR to neoadjuvant treatment in rectal cancer despite significant limitations in currently available data.
基金supported by the National High Level Hospital Clinical Research Funding(2025-GSP-QN-31&2022-GSP-QN-1)the Young Talent Program of the Academician Fund(YS-2022-002)the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(CAMS)Innovation Fund for Medical Sciences(CIFMS)(2023-I2M-1-002)。
文摘BACKGROUND As the global population ages,the number of elderly patients with acute coronary syndrome(ACS)rises.However,prognostic assessment tools for elderly patients with ACS remain lacking,particularly in the Chinese population.This study aimed to develop and validate a nomogram to predict 2-year major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events(MACCE)in elderly Chinese patients with ACS.METHODS A retrospective analysis was conducted using two independent cohorts of ACS patients aged≥65 years who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention:the derivation cohort(n=1674)and the validation cohort(n=2333).Candidate predictors were selected using multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression and the Akaike information criterion.A final nomogram incorporating ten variables was constructed.Model performance was evaluated in terms of discrimination[concordance index(C-index)and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve(AUC)]and calibration(calibration plots).RESULTS The 2-year incidence of MACCE was 12.5%(n=210)in the derivation cohort and 15.6%(n=364)in the validation cohort.The nomogram demonstrated good discrimination,with C-index values of 0.727 and 0.661 and AUCs of 0.723 and 0.699 in the derivation cohort and the validation cohort,respectively;significantly outperforming the GRACE risk score(P<0.001).Calibration plots showed good agreement between the predicted and observed outcomes.Patients classified as the high-risk group by the nomogram had a significantly higher MACCE incidence compared to that of the low-risk group(log-rank P<0.001).CONCLUSIONS This newly developed nomogram provides a reliable tool for individualized prediction of the 2-year MACCE risk in elderly Chinese patients with ACS who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention.It outperformed the GRACE score in both discrimmination and calibration and may help improve clinical decision-making and personalized risk stratification in this vulnerable population.
基金supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82370665,81471590 and 81571554)Beijing Natural Science Foundation(7212042,7222303 and 7232068)+1 种基金Beijing Chaoyang Hospital Golden Seeds Foundation(CYJZ202204)Science and Technology Innovation Fund of Beijing Chaoyang Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University in 2021(21kcjj-4).
文摘Introduction The immune system is the cornerstone of human health,with most diseases and health conditions closely related to immune status.Therefore,immune status management is a core health issue.In recent years,significant research breakthroughs in immunosuppressants,immune cell therapy,and immune checkpoint inhibitors have enabled clinical experts and researchers to effectively modulate immune status and regulate immunity more efficient.Key questions in the field of immunology include:How can immune function be visually assessed?What constitutes normal immune cell function status?How can immune cell function status be quantitatively evaluated?How can a standardized system for assessing immune cell function status be established?Currently,there is no consensus on these issues worldwide.On August 28,2023,the National Natural Science Foundation of China announced the National Major Research Plan:Immune Power Digital Decoding Research.Traditional research models have failed to systematically reveal the generation and evolution of immune power.
文摘Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the perceptions of students, lecturers, nurses and clinical lecturers regarding the ability of the National Clinical Final Examination (NCFE) to assess clinical competence, and whether the assessment was consistent with the qualifications for a Bachelor of Science in Nursing as outlined by the Swedish Higher Education Authority. The NCFE is divided into two parts (written and bedside) and aims to evaluate third-year nursing students’ clinical competence. Methods: Data were collected at 10 universities using study-specific questionnaires. The total response rate was 84% (n = 1652). Results: The clinical lecturers indicated that there was a need for improvement in the written part of the examination in order to adequately assess clinical competence. Regarding the bedside part the clinical lecturers, nurses and students perceived that the bedside part of the examination assessed whether the student had the clinical competence required by a newly registered nurse. Conclusion: The two-part examination described in this study was perceived as useful for assessing clinical competence and for the qualification requirements for a Bachelor of Science in Nursing as outlined by the Swedish Higher Education Authority. However, especially the written part requires further development. The model and form of assessment ought to be applicable to graduate nursing programme internationally.
文摘This review summarises the key points in taking a history and performing a comprehensive clinical examination for patients with foot and/or ankle problems. It is a useful guide for residents who are preparing for their specialty exams, as well as family doctors and any other doctor who has to deal with foot and ankle problems in adults.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 81904051)Young Elite Scientists Sponsorship Program by China Association of Chinese Medicine (No.CACM-2019-QNRC2-A03)the Basic Research Foundation of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine (No. 2019-JYB-JS-033)。
文摘Clinical trial outcome reporting differs between studies integrating traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)and Western medicine, so that some clinical trials are not eligible for inclusion in a systematic review.The excluded studies are therefore less widely disseminated, and even valid studies are less likely to yield impact. This problem may be addressed by developing core outcome sets(COSs) for integrative medicine in specific healthcare areas. The first stage of development is to define the scope of the COS for integrative medicine, the second stage is to establish the need for such a COS, and the third stage is to develop a protocol and register the COS. The final stage involves three steps:(i) development of a comprehensive list of outcomes(including efficacy outcomes and safety outcomes and TCM syndromes) using systematic review, qualitative or cross-sectional research, and reviews of package inserts and medical records;(ii) merging and grouping of outcomes within domains;(iii) conducting two rounds of Delphi survey and consensus meetings with a range of stakeholders. The final COS will include a general COS and core TCM syndrome-set. Development of COSs for clinical trials of integrative medicine may help to standardize outcome reporting and reduce publication bias in the future.
文摘Student engagement in a clinical learning environment is a vital component in the curricula of pre-licensure nursing students, providing an opportunity to combine cognitive, psychomotor, and affective skills. This paper is significant in Arab world as there is a lack of knowledge, attitude and practice of student involvement in the new clinical learning environment. The purpose of this review article is to describe the experiences and perspectives of the nurse educator in facilitating pre-licensure nursing students’ engagement in the new clinical learning environment. The review suggests that novice students prefer actual engagement in clinical learning facilitated through diversity experiences, shared learning opportunities, student-faculty interaction and active learning. They expressed continuous supervision, ongoing feedback, interpersonal relationship and personal support from nurse educators useful in the clinical practice. However, the value of this review lies in a better understanding of what constitutes quality clinical learning environment from the students’ perspective of engagement in evidence-based nursing, reflective practice, e-learning and simulated case scenarios facilitated by the nurse educators. This review is valuable in planning and implementing innovative clinical and educational experiences for improving the quality of the clinical teaching-learning environment.
