scholarly journals Meta-analysis of prednisone in withdrawal therapy following medication overuse headache

2021 ◽  
Vol 26 (4) ◽  
pp. 761-766
Author(s):  
Wenmiao Jie ◽  
Jianzhong Xiong ◽  
Xiaohua Yan
Keyword(s):  
Medication Overuse ◽  
Meta Analysis ◽  
Medication Overuse Headache ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Randomized Control Trials ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Withdrawal Therapy ◽  
Randomized Control ◽  
Experimental Group

The objective of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the therapeutic effectiveness of prednisone in withdrawal therapy following medication overuse headache. The Cochrane, PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, CNKI, VIP, and Wanfang data were searched to identify randomized control trials of prednisone for the treatment of medication overuse headache. Two researchers independently screened published studies according to inclusion and exclusion criteria, and evaluated the methodological quality of included studies. Revman 5.3 software was used to analyze the extracted data, and a total of six randomized control trials involving 510 patients were included in the study. Meta-analysis indicated that there was no significant difference in the ratio of taking painkillers again after withdrawal (RR=0.89, 95% CI: 0.70,1.14, P=0.36) compared with the control group. There was also no significant difference between the experimental group and the control group in the incidence of withdrawal reactions (RR=1.28, 95% CI: 0.87, 1.89, P=0.21), severity of headache (RR=1.56, 95% CI: -4.83, 7.95, P=0. 63) and the frequency of headache attacks after withdrawal (RR=0.14, 95% CI: -0.35, 0.63, P=0.58). It is concluded that prednisone does not alleviate symptoms in patients with medication overuse headache after withdrawal.

scholarly journals Lithium carbonate as add-on therapy to radioiodine in the treatment on hyperthyroidism: a systematic review and meta-analysis

2021 ◽  
Vol 21 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Mohamed Abd-ElGawad ◽  
Mohamed Abdelmonem ◽  
Ahmed Eissa Ahmed ◽  
Omar Magdy Mohammed ◽  
Mohamed Sayed Zaazouee ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Randomized Clinical Trials ◽  
Radioactive Iodine ◽  
Meta Analysis ◽  
Intervention Group ◽  
Secondary Outcome ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Randomized Control Trials ◽  
Cure Rate ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Randomized Control

Abstract Background The main purpose is to investigate the effect of LiCO3 as an add-on therapy with radioactive iodine in increasing the cure and decreasing the T4 level compared to radioactive iodine alone. The primary outcome is the cure rate as defined by the number of hyperthyroid patients who became euthyroid or hypothyroid. The secondary outcome is the T4 level. Methods Four databases were searched (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane central library). The inclusion criteria were randomized and non-randomized clinical trials of hyperthyroidism patients receiving LiCO3 with radioiodine compared with hyperthyroidism patients receiving radioactive iodine alone. Included studies were appraised with the risk of bias version 2 tool, according to the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions 5.1.0. Results Nine studies were eligible for inclusion in the study, six randomized control trials and three non-randomized control trials. There were 477 patients in the intervention group and 451 patients in the control group. The cure rate was not significantly different between the two groups, while it was significantly increased with 5000 to 6500 mg optimized cumulative dose of LiCO3 compared with the control group, P = 0.0001. The T4 level showed no significant difference between the two groups, P = 0.13. Conclusions LiCO3 adjunct to radioactive iodine did not show significant differences compared with radioactive iodine alone in terms of cure rate or decreasing T4 level. However, the dose of 5000 to 6000 mg of LiCO3 may increase the cure rate.

EXPRESS: Comparison of Mothership versus Drip-and-Ship Models in treating patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke: A systematic review and meta-analysis

2021 ◽  
pp. 174749302110132
Author(s):  
Ahmed Mohamed ◽  
Nida Fatima ◽  
Ashfaq Shuaib ◽  
Maher Saqqur
Keyword(s):  
Functional Outcome ◽  
Meta Analysis ◽  
Critical Time ◽  
Functional Independence ◽  
Models Of Care ◽  
Randomized Control Trials ◽  
Symptomatic Intracerebral Hemorrhage ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
The Mean ◽  
Randomized Control

Introduction There is controversy if direct to comprehensive center “mothership” (MS) or stopping at primary center for thrombolysis before transfer to comprehensive center “drip-and- ship” (DS) are best models of treatment of acute stroke. In this study, we compare MS and DS models to evaluate the best option of functional outcome. Methods Studies between 1990 and 2020 were extracted from online electronic databases. We compared the clinical outcomes, critical time measurements, functional independence and mortality were then compared. Results A total of 7,824 patients’ data were retrieved from 13 publications (3 randomized control trials and 10 retrospective ones). 4,639 (59.3%) patients were treated under MS model and 3,185 (40.7%) followed the DS model with mean age of 70.01±3.58 vs. 69.03±3.36; p< 0 .001, respectively. The National Institute Health Stroke Scale was 15.57±3.83 for the MS and 15.72±2.99 for the DS model (p=<0.001). The mean symptoms onset-to-puncture time was significantly shorter in the MS group compared to the DS (159.69 min vs. 223.89 min; p=<0.001, respectively). Moreover, the collected data indicated no significant difference between symptom’s onset to intravenous (IV) thrombolysis time and stroke onset-to-successful recanalization time (p=0.205 and p=<0.001, respectively). Patients had significantly worse functional outcome [modified rankin score (mRS)] (3-6) at 90-days in the DS model [Odds Ratio (OR): 1.47, 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 1.13-1.92, p<0.004] and 1.49-folds higher likelihood of symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (OR: 1.49, 95%CI: 1.22-1.81, p<0.0001) compared to MS. However, there were no statistically significant difference in terms of mortality (OR: 1.16, 95%CI: 0.87-1.55, p=0.32) and successful recanalization (OR: 1.12, 95%CI: 0.76-1.65, p=0.56) between the two models of care. Conclusion Patients in the MS model have significantly improved functional independence and recovery. Further studies are needed as the data from prospectively randomized studies is not of sufficient quality to make definite recommendations.

scholarly journals Comparison of a novel herbal skin care ointment with regular ointments to treat skin around the abdominal stoma: A clinical trial study

2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Maryam Hajikari ◽  
Soheila Mojdeh ◽  
Mohsen Shariari
Keyword(s):  
Data Collection ◽  
Herbal Product ◽  
Gastric Ulcers ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Skin Ulcers ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Group A ◽  
The Mean ◽  
Experimental Group

Introduction The incidence of gastric ulcers in patients with abdominal stoma is high and affects the quality of patients’ life. Aim To evaluate the effect of Adib herbal ointment containing chamomile rose, black nightshade origin versus Comfeel and Conveen ointments on the skin of abdominal stoma. Material and methods This is a clinical study in which the volunteers were stoma patients. Study group consisted of 52 qualified subjects, 26 were included in the experimental group and 26 in the control group. A 2-part questionnaire was used for the data collection. The 1st part was demographic information. The 2nd part of the data collection was evaluated according to the pressure ulcer scale for healing (PUSH) tool, which used for examining skin ulcers around the stoma. P ≤ 0.05 was considered as a significant. Results and discussion The results of the Mann–Whitney test showed that between the mean score of the total score of the wound before intervention (P = 0.92) and on the 3rd day (P = 0.476), 6th (P = 0.222), 9th (P = 0.11) and 12th (P = 0.418), there was no significant difference between the control and test groups. Also, the Friedman test (intra-group) also showed that between the mean score of the total score of the wound before the intervention and the 3rd, 6th, 9th and 12th days in the control group (P = 0.0001) and in the experimental group (P = 0.0001) There was a significant statistical difference. Conclusions Based on the study, Adib herbal ointment could be recommended for the treatment of stoma to the skin as an herbal product as other common treatments.

Problem-Solving Therapy

2017 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nancy P. Kropf ◽  
Sherry M. Cummings
Keyword(s):  
Problem Solving ◽  
Meta Analysis ◽  
Randomized Control Trials ◽  
Problem Solving Therapy ◽  
Related Quality ◽  
Health Related ◽  
Randomized Control ◽  
Meta Analyses ◽  
And Coping

Chapter 6, “Problem-Solving Therapy: Evidence-Based Practice,” details the research evidence concerning the effectiveness of problem-solving therapy (PST) for use with older adults. Only meta-analyses or randomized control trials (RCT) were included in this review. One meta-analysis and fifteen randomized control trials were identified that investigated PST outcomes on older adult depression, health-related quality of life, and coping. Outcomes of these studies determined that this therapy is effective in reducing anxiety and depression, and increasing problem-solving abilities in both community-based and in-home settings. Additionally, consistent support was found for the efficacy of telephone and video-phone PST, suggesting that these alternate means of administration may help overcome barriers to the receipt of mental health services experienced by homebound elders.

scholarly journals Cognitive behavioural therapy on improving the depression symptoms in patients with diabetes: a meta-analysis of randomized control trials

2017 ◽  
Vol 37 (2) ◽  
Author(s):  
Zhi-da Wang ◽  
Yu-fei Xia ◽  
Yue Zhao ◽  
Li-ming Chen
Keyword(s):  
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy ◽  
Meta Analysis ◽  
Behavioural Therapy ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Depression Symptoms ◽  
Randomized Control Trials ◽  
Cognitive Behavioural ◽  
Subgroup Analyses ◽  
Patients With Diabetes ◽  
Randomized Control

This meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the effect of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) in improving the depression symptoms of patients with diabetes. Literature search was conducted in PubMed and Embase up to October 2016 without the initial date. The pooled SMD (standard mean difference) and its 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated by Revman 5.3. Subgroup analyses were performed by type of diabetes and evaluation criteria of depression. A total of five randomized control trials involving 834 patients with diabetes mellitus (including 417 patients in CBT group and 417 patients in control group) were included in this meta-analysis. The pooled estimates indicated significant improvement of depression by CBT compared with routine approaches in overall outcomes (SMD =–0.33, 95% CI =–0.46 to –0.21, P<0.00001), post-intervention outcomes (SMD =–0.43, 95% CI =–0.73 to –0.12, P=0.006) and outcomes after 12 months intervention (SMD =–0.38, 95% CI = –0.54 to –0.23, P<0.0001). Subgroup analyses showed that the results were not influenced by the type of diabetes. However, the effect of CBT on improving the depression symptoms disappeared when only using CES-D (Centre for Epidemiological Studies scale for Depression) to evaluate depression.

scholarly journals Augmented Reality (AR) Technology-Based Learning: The Effect on Physics Learning during the COVID-19 Pandemic

2022 ◽  
Vol 12 (2) ◽  
pp. 132-140
Author(s):  
Doni Ropawandi ◽  
◽  
Lilia Halim ◽  
Hazrati Husnin
Keyword(s):  
Augmented Reality ◽  
Physics Education ◽  
Teaching And Learning ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Technology In Education ◽  
Learning And Teaching ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Experimental Group

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly disrupted education and has instantaneously shifted education from being conducted predominately ‘face to face’ to being totally ‘online’. For most teachers, this unexpected teaching approach has impelled them into finding ways to provide the same quality of education to their students. One way of doing this is by adopting educational technologies in learning and teaching, including the use of augmented reality (AR) technology. AR technology has been integrated into the field of physics education. In this study, the effects of AR technology on understanding of the concepts of electricity in an online learning environment for 11th-grade students was investigated. Pretest and posttest were carried out in the control group and the experimental group. The results showed that AR technology improved understanding of electrical concepts for the students in the experimental group compared to the control group, with a very significant difference between both groups. This research contributes to the development of AR technology in education, especially in relation to the teaching and learning of abstract physics concepts.

scholarly journals The Effectiveness and Safety of Metronomic Chemotherapy in Patients with Head and Neck Carcinoma: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Xingli Li ◽  
Jianjian Wang ◽  
Ting Zhang ◽  
Jiabin Wang ◽  
Zhangcai Zheng ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Head And Neck Cancer ◽  
Head And Neck ◽  
Neck Cancer ◽  
Meta Analysis ◽  
Metronomic Chemotherapy ◽  
Head And Neck Carcinoma ◽  
Randomized Control Trials ◽  
Neck Carcinoma ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Randomized Control

Abstract Background: Head and neck carcinoma, usually begins in the squamous cells, not only seriously endangers the quality of life, but brings a heavy financial burden for families and countries. Metronomic chemotherapy, a frequent administration of chemotherapeutic agents at a non-toxic dose, gives an alternative low-cost and tolerated approach for patients. We conducted a systematic review to find the effectiveness and safety of metronomic chemotherapy for head and neck cancer.Methods: We searched seven databases and Clinical.gov from the inception to July 14, 2021. The patients diagnosed head and neck cancer and older than 18 were included. Metronomic chemotherapy was defined as intervention. Randomized and non-randomized trials were all included. Quality assessment of included randomized control trials was performed using the Cochrane Risk-of-Bias criteria, cohort studies using The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS), single arm trials using the checklist recommended by The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). Studies were synthetized using a narrative approach. The indicators used for meta-analysis was hazard ratio (HR).Results: 310 Literatures were potentially eligible from 7 databases, finally 13 records were included. Five studies were of high quality, while eight were of moderate quality. The overall effect of HR for death of five trials reported had no statistically significant (HR=0.89, 95%CI 0.71-1.10). Subgroup analysis by different design showed a statistically significant HR (0.73, 95%CI 0.60-0.90) in randomized control trials while no significant difference in subgroup of prospective study design (HR=1.23, 95%CI 0.72-2.10). As for HR for PFS, there was no significant difference in overall effect of four studies. HR for PFS was 0.84 (95%CI 0.55-1.31). Subgroup analysis of study design showed that randomized control trials produced a significant HR (0.54, 95%CI 0.45-0.64), while prospective studies did not (1.25, 95%CI 0.73, 2.14).Conclusions: Metronomic chemotherapy has been an optimistic option for treatment for advanced head and neck cancer, especially in low income and medical resource-restricted regions.

scholarly journals Modulation of the human immune status by spinal thermal massage: a non-randomized controlled study

2021 ◽  
Keyword(s):  
Quality Of Life ◽  
Nk Cells ◽  
Nk Cell ◽  
Controlled Trial ◽  
Controlled Study ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Randomized Controlled ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Experimental Group

Thermal and massage therapies have long been used to control pain. Although spinal thermal massage (STM) has been used worldwide, its effectiveness has not been proven in a controlled clinical study. We here conducted a non-randomized controlled trial to assess the pain-relieving and immunomodulatory effects of STM in old-aged patients experiencing pain or disability. The experimental group was treated with STM five times a week for 8 weeks and rehabilitative regular care (RRC). The control group was treated with only RRC. Pain and immunological parameters were tested before treatment and after 4 and 8 weeks of treatment. The scores of three pain parameters were lowered by STM, and the differences between the groups were statistically significant at the two time points (p < 0.01). Quality of life determined using the 3-level EuroQol five-dimensional questionnaire scores was significantly higher in patients in the experimental group than those in the control group. Effect sizes (ES) were in the range of medium to large in the pain-related measures (0.54–1.22). The total leukocyte counts and the proportions of lymphocytes and subsets were not significantly different between the groups, whereas the proportions of monocytes and natural killer (NK) cells were higher in the experimental group than in the control group after 8 weeks (p < 0.05). The production of interleukin (IL)-4 and interferon γ in T cells was not significantly different between the groups, whereas the production of IL-2 was high in the control group. However, there was a significant increase in IFN-γ production by NK cells in the experimental group (at 4 weeks, p < 0.05). ES were medium in the immunological measures (0.53–0.68). No significant difference was observed in the production of proinflammatory cytokines, IL-1β, tumor necrosis factor α, or IL-6 between the groups. In conclusion, STM treatment has a positive effect on subjective pain and quality of life. It also enhanced NK cell proportion and activity, suggesting that STM may be beneficial in the prevention of viral diseases and cancer in old-aged people.

Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document