European journal of clinical investigation
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Eur. J. Clin. Invest. · Apr 2023
Dysphagia in Hospitalized Patients: Prevalence, Related Factors and Impact on Aspiration Pneumonia and Mortality.
Oropharyngeal dysphagia can be highly concerning in hospitalized patients, increasing morbidity and mortality, making its early identification essential. We aimed to characterize dysphagia and its association with aspiration pneumonia and mortality in a tertiary hospital in Barcelona, Spain. ⋯ We conclude that dysphagia is a prevalent and transversal condition, increasing the risk of mortality in all patients, and efforts should be intensified to increase its early detection and correct management.
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Eur. J. Clin. Invest. · Apr 2023
Estimates of COVID-19 deaths in Mainland China after abandoning zero COVID policy.
China witnessed a surge of Omicron infections after abandoning 'zero COVID' strategies on 7 December 2022. The authorities report very sparse deaths based on very restricted criteria, but massive deaths are speculated. ⋯ The most critical factor that can affect total COVID-19 fatalities in China is the extent to which the elderly can be protected.
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Eur. J. Clin. Invest. · Mar 2023
Meta AnalysisAssociation between homocysteine and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: Mendelian randomisation study.
Many observational studies explore the relationship between homocysteine (Hcy) and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), whereas the causality of this association remains uncertain, especially in European populations. We performed a bidirectional Mendelian randomisation study to elucidate the causal association between Hcy and NAFLD. Furthermore, we explored the relationship of Hcy with liver enzymes, including alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). ⋯ This study has clinical implications as it indicates that increased Hcy concentrations increase the relevant liver enzymes and may play a role in NAFLD risk in European populations.
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Eur. J. Clin. Invest. · Mar 2023
Review Meta AnalysisSystematic review with meta-analysis: branched-chain amino acid supplementation in liver disease.
Dietary supplementation with branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) is often used in cirrhotic patients to improve nutritional status. We wanted to explore the evidence for BCAA supplementation in chronic liver disease. ⋯ Prophylactic BCAA supplementation appears safe and might improve survival in cirrhotic patients.
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Eur. J. Clin. Invest. · Mar 2023
Alpha-Klotho and peritoneal membrane status: A Hypothesis generating study.
Long-term success of peritoneal dialysis relies on the integrity of the peritoneal membrane. This proof-of-concept study addressed the hypothesis that fibrosis is already present in the membrane at pre-dialysis and that the membrane status is related to the individual's uraemic fingerprint. ⋯ Before the start of dialysis in incident patients, some patients already present fibrosis of the peritoneal membrane and other patients do not. Our findings suggest that α-Klotho may be implicated in fibrosis of the peritoneal membrane.