The American journal of medicine
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Meta Analysis Comparative Study
One-way versus two-way text messaging on improving medication adherence: meta-analysis of randomized trials.
Mobile telephone text messaging is a simple potential solution to the failure to take medications as directed. There is uncertainty over the effectiveness of 1-way text messaging (sending text message reminders only) compared with 2-way text messaging (sending reminders and receiving replies confirming whether medication has been taken) as a means of improving medication adherence. ⋯ Two-way text messaging is associated with substantially improved medication adherence compared with 1-way text messaging. This has important implications in the provision of mobile-based messaging in the management of patients taking medication for the prevention of chronic disease.
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Sleep quality and quantity are severely reduced in critically ill patients receiving mechanical ventilation with a potential for adverse consequences. Our objective was to synthesize the randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that measured the efficacy of sleep-promoting interventions on sleep quality and quantity in critically ill patients. ⋯ The synthesized evidence suggests that both mechanical ventilation- and nonmechanical ventilation-based therapies improve sleep quantity and quality in critically ill patients, but the clinical significance is unclear. In the future, adequately powered multicenter RCTs involving pharmacologic interventions to promote sleep in critically ill patients are warranted.
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Review Meta Analysis Comparative Study
Predictive Value of Computed Tomography in Acute Pulmonary Embolism: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.
Many computed tomography (CT) parameters have been proposed as potential predictors of outcome in acute pulmonary embolism. We sought to summarize available evidence on the predictive value of CT severity parameters for short-term clinical outcome in pulmonary embolism. ⋯ Across all end points, the RV/LV diameter ratio on transverse CT sections has the strongest predictive value and most robust evidence base for adverse clinical outcomes in patients with acute pulmonary embolism.
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Review Meta Analysis
Statin therapy and mortality from sepsis: a meta-analysis of randomized trials.
Statin therapy for sepsis has been suggested by observational studies. However, randomized controlled trials have not demonstrated this benefit. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized trials to evaluate the effect of statin therapy on mortality in patients with sepsis. ⋯ This systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized trials suggests that statin therapy does not improve mortality outcomes in patients with sepsis compared with placebo.
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Meta Analysis Comparative Study
The comparative safety of tumor necrosis factor inhibitors in rheumatoid arthritis: a meta-analysis update of 44 trials.
The study objective was to evaluate and update the safety data from randomized controlled trials of tumor necrosis factor inhibitors in patients treated for rheumatoid arthritis. ⋯ These meta-analysis updates of the comparative safety of tumor necrosis factor inhibitors suggest a higher risk of serious infection associated with adalimumab, certolizumab pegol, and infliximab, which seems to contribute to higher rates of discontinuation. In contrast, etanercept use showed a lower rate of discontinuation. These data may help guide clinical comparative decision making in the management of rheumatoid arthritis.