Scot Med J
-
Cardiovascular disease affects over 7 million people in the UK and statins are often prescribed to mitigate cardiovascular risks. The effect of statins on a number of cancers is debated and their effect on Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) responsiveness in non-muscle invasive urinary bladder cancer (NMIBC) is not fully understood. ⋯ This study showed a differential expression of HMGCR in responders vs. non-responders to BCG for high-risk NMIBC on statins. This data should form the basis of a further research and multi-centre study in a larger cohort, using HMGCR as a biomarker of response in patients on statins.
-
Multicenter Study Observational Study
Urinary bladder recurrences following ureteroscopic biopsies of upper tract urothelial cancers: a multi-centre observational study with genomic assessment for clonality.
Urinary bladder recurrences (UBRs) after radical nephroureterectomy (RNUx) are a known challenge in patients with upper-tract urothelial cancers (UTUCs). We aim to assess factors associated with UBR and clonal-relatedness with resected UTUC. ⋯ Ureteroscopic biopsy of UTUC is a significant risk factor for UBR. Qualitative clonality assessment showed identical mutational signatures between primary UTUC and UBR.
-
Multicenter Study
Multicentric analysis of the perceptions and knowledge of digital health amongst undergraduate medical students.
Digital health (DH) is continuously evolving by use of information and communications technology to improve healthcare provision, thereby reshaping systems and clinical practices. Recent studies identified an overwhelming lack of awareness of DH within the profession. This study aimed to analyse student perceptions and knowledge of DH to assess confidence in its use to develop greater DH awareness and literacy. ⋯ There is an important requirement to address the lack of knowledge and exposure of students to DH, particularly as the world targets the COVID-19 pandemic. DH is forming the basis of the 'new normal' in healthcare, however the full potential of DH cannot be achieved unless there is an increase in its teaching incorporated into medical school curricula.
-
In view of changing landscape of surgical treatment for LUTS secondary to BPE, this audit was undertaken to assess key aspects of the processes and outcomes of the current interventional treatments for BPE, across different units in the UK. ⋯ Monopolar TURP still remains the commonest intervention for BPE. Most departments are adopting newer technologies. The audit identified opportunities for development of consistent, effective and patient centric practices as well as need for large-scale focused studies.
-
Multicenter Study Observational Study
Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors do not increase the risk of poor outcomes in COVID-19 disease. A multi-centre observational study.
Hypertension is associated with an increased risk of severe outcomes with COVID-19 disease. Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) inhibitors are widely used as a first line medication for the treatment of hypertension in the UK, although their use was suggested in early reports to increase the risk associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection. ⋯ This study contributes to the growing evidence supporting the continued use of ACE inhibitors in COVID-19 disease, although adequately powered randomised controlled trials will be needed to confirm effects.