Medicine
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Metformin can cause serum vitamin B12 deficiency, but studies on the influence of its duration and dose are lacking. We investigated vitamin B12 deficiency in patients with type 2 diabetes using metformin, in conjunction with other related factors. ⋯ Metformin at ≥1500 mg/d could be a major factor related to vitamin B12 deficiency, whereas concurrent supplementation of multivitamins may potentially protect against the deficiency. Serum homocysteine levels were negatively correlated with vitamin B12 levels, suggesting that B12 deficiency due to metformin use may occur at the tissue level. However, this hypothesis will require further study.
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Laser systems are a common treatment choice for onychomycosis. They exert their effects on inhibiting the growth of the fungus by selective photothermolysis but efficacy is dependent on the specific type of apparatus used. To systematically review the available published literature on the curative effects and safety of laser treatment for onychomycosis. ⋯ Laser treatment of onychomycosis is effective and safe. The cumulative cure rate of laser treatment was significantly higher for CO2 lasers than other types of laser. Laser practitioners should be made aware of potential adverse effects such as pain and bleeding.
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Observational Study
A prognostic nomogram for distal bile duct cancer from Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database based on the STROBE compliant.
In this study, we aimed to develop a reliable nomogram to estimate individualized prognosis for patients with distal bile duct cancer (DBDC) and compare the predictive value with the American Joint Committee on Cancer staging system. Data of 1110 patients diagnosed with DBDC were recruited from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database between 1973 and 2015. All patients were randomly divided into the training (n = 777) and validation (n = 333) cohorts, respectively. ⋯ Calibration curves showed the optimal agreement in predicating OS between nomogram and actual observation. In addition, this nomogram can effectively distinguish the OS between low and high-risk groups divided by the median score (P < .01). Present study was the first one to construct a prognostic nomogram of DBDC patients, which has the potential to provide individual prediction of OS.
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Meta Analysis
Tai Chi exercise for sleep problems in older adults: A protocol of systematic review and meta-analysis.
Sleep plays a crucial role in the general health of the human body. However, sleep problems become increasingly severe with age, and its incidence is on the rise. Notably, Tai Chi exercise may be an efficacious means to ameliorate sleep problems among older adults. This is especially since Tai Chi has been widely used to manage sleep problems in China for many years, but there is limited evidence regarding its effectiveness. We will conduct this study aiming to investigate the efficacy of Tai Chi as a complementary and alternative therapy for sleep problems in older adults. ⋯ PEROSPERO CRD42019129782.
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Meta Analysis
The efficacy and safety of neoadjuvant buparlisib for breast cancer: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled studies.
The efficacy of neoadjuvant buparlisib for breast cancer remains controversial. We conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to explore the influence of neoadjuvant buparlisib versus placebo for breast cancer. ⋯ Neoadjuvant buparlisib may provide some efficacy for breast cancer, but leads to the increase in serious adverse events.