Journal of investigative medicine : the official publication of the American Federation for Clinical Research
-
A well-known effect size (ES) indicator is Cohen's d. Cohen defined d measures of small, medium, and large ES as 0.2, 0.5, and 0.8, respectively. This approach has been criticized because practical and clinical importance depends on the context of research. ⋯ Determination of ES during the planning phase of studies requires thorough evaluation of specific clinical cases. Our results are divergent from the classic Cohen's d values. Additionally, duration of treatment affects ES perception.
-
This meta-analysis and systematic review investigated the efficacy of bisphosphonates on the incidence of hip fracture (IHF) in patients of different ages with osteoporosis or osteopenia. We searched Web of Science, Embase, the Cochrane Database, and PubMed from inception to January 10, 2021, for trials reporting the effects of bisphosphonates on the IHF. We included only randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials. ⋯ Bisphosphonate reduced the IHF in the general population and all age groups (≥55 years old and ≥65 years old). Zoledronic acid, risedronate and alendronate reduced the IHF in osteoporosis or osteopenia populations. The association between bisphosphonate and the IHF does not appear to be influenced by age.
-
The great value of home nursing services in the treatment of ailments in elderly patients has attracted increasing attention. This study describes a new mobile internet-based home nursing service system and investigates the reasons for its use among elderly patients. 520 cases of mobile internet-based home nursing services were investigated. The proportion of major reasons to use mobile internet-based home nursing services among the elderly was analyzed and the satisfaction rate was investigated. ⋯ Treatment for pressure ulcers, PICC, subcutaneous injection, general stoma care, psychological care, and intramuscular injection were found to be the main reasons to use mobile internet-based home nursing services among the elderly. The new mobile internet-based home nursing service system provides convenient home nursing services to elderly patients and ensures that they get equal rights in home nursing. The results provide basis for healthcare policy makers to formulate new home nursing policies for elderly patients.
-
HIV infections are prevalent among adolescents and young adults, of whom 44% remain unaware of their diagnosis. HIV screening presents numerous challenges including stigma, fear, and concerns about confidentiality, which may influence young people's acceptance of HIV screening and linkage to care differently from individuals in other age groups. It is imperative to understand which care delivery models are most effective in facilitating these services for youth. ⋯ A significant difference in acceptance of HIV testing was found between care models, with high rates of test acceptance in the ED setting in North America and primary care/hospital setting in the rest of the world. Similarly, linkage to care differed by model of care, with EDs having high rates of linkages to HIV care in North America. Future studies are needed to test mechanisms for optimizing outcomes for each care delivery model in addressing the unique challenges faced by adolescents and young adults.
-
Review Meta Analysis
Serum cortisol concentration and COVID-19 severity: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
The novel COVID-19 outbreak is a major health threat to human beings with multiorgan injuries. However, its endocrine system manifestations are much less studied. In this study, we aimed to reassess the available findings on the association between cortisol level and severity of COVID-19 infection. ⋯ Meta-regression illustrated a significant correlation between cortisol levels with sex. The serum cortisol level seems to be higher in patients with severe COVID-19 infection. This finding could be helpful to detect patients with poor prognosis at early stages of the disease, although age and sex may modify this level.