Journal of the Chinese Medical Association : JCMA
-
Since COVID-19 outbreak, hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) has been tested for effective therapies, and the relevant researches have shown controversial results. ⋯ Our results indicated that HCQ-AZI combination treatment increased mortality rate in patients with COVID-19, but it also showed benefits associated with viral clearance in patients. HCQ-alone used for treatment has revealed benefits in decreasing the mortality rate among severely infected COVID-19 group and showed potential to be used for COVID-19 treatment in long-term follow-up period group. Accordingly, more rigorous, large-scale, and long follow-up period studies in patients with COVID-19 are needed.
-
Patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and with a single tumor <2 cm in size are classified as having Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) stage 0 HCC. We aimed to investigate the role of the albumin-bilirubin (ALBI) grade in predicting outcomes in patients with BCLC stage 0 HCC. ⋯ The ALBI grade can determine OS for patients with BCLC stage 0 HCC. SR can also provide a better outcome than nonsurgical treatment.
-
Cardiotocography is a common method of electronic fetal monitoring (EFM) for fetal well-being. Data-driven analyses have shown potential for automated EFM assessment. For this preliminary study, we used a novel artificial intelligence method based on fully convolutional networks (FCNs), with deep learning for EFM evaluation and correct recognition, and its possible role in evaluation of nonreassuring fetal status. ⋯ FCN is a modern technique that may be useful for EFM trace recognition based on its multiconvolutional layered analysis. Our model showed a competitive ability to identify FHR patterns and the potential for evaluation of nonreassuring fetal status.
-
Prescribing opioids for patients with chronic noncancer pain (CNCP) remains controversial. This study surveyed Taiwanese physicians who were clinically treating CNCP outpatients with long-term opioids. ⋯ Among the Taiwanese physicians treating the officially registered CNCP patients, nonpain board-certified physicians had fewer patients, less knowledge, and an increased negative attitude toward long-term opioid prescriptions. Better education on chronic pain management is needed for improvement of clinical practice.
-
Taiwan transitioned to an aged society in 2018. Appropriate dental treatment is important for elderly individuals. Previously, reconstruction of the dentition was thought to help regain chewing function. ⋯ For the elderly population, treatment must be aimed at restoring as much chewing function as possible with minimal changes. Additionally, regular oral hygiene care, proper design of fixed partial dentures, and implant placement greatly reduce the difficulty in adapting to a new prosthesis. These measures allow us to provide better quality of life for elderly individuals.