Trials
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In cluster-randomized controlled trials (C-RCTs), covariate-constrained randomization (CCR) methods efficiently control imbalance in multiple baseline cluster-level variables, but the choice of imbalance metric to define the subset of "adequately balanced" possible allocation schemes for C-RCTs involving more than two arms and continuous variables is unclear. In an ongoing three-armed C-RCT, we chose the min(three Kruskal-Wallis [KW] test P values) > 0.30 as our metric. We use simulation studies to explore the performance of this and other metrics of baseline variable imbalance in CCR. ⋯ Our criterion, the KW P value > 0.30, to signify "acceptable" balance was not the most conservative, but it appropriately identified imbalance in the majority of simulations. Since all are related, CCR algorithms involving any of these imbalance metrics for continuous baseline variables will ensure robust simultaneous control over multiple continuous baseline variables, but we recommend care in determining the threshold of "acceptable" levels of (im)balance.
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Multicenter Study
Remote ischemic conditioning in septic shock (RECO-Sepsis): study protocol for a randomized controlled trial.
Septic shock is a major public health problem that is associated with up to 50% mortality. Unfavorable outcomes are mainly attributed to multiple organ failure (MOF) resulting from an uncontrolled inflammatory response and ischemia-reperfusion processes. REmote ischemic COnditioning (RECO) is a promising intervention to prevent ischemia-reperfusion injury. We hypothesize that RECO would reduce the severity of septic shock-induced MOF. ⋯ Results of this proof-of-concept trial should provide information on the efficacy of RECO in patients with septic shock.
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Quadratus lumborum block (QLB) is increasingly gaining popularity as a novel abdominal truncal block in abdominal surgery; however, the mechanism of QLB is not yet thoroughly illustrated. The focus of our study is transmuscular QLB (TMQLB), as the latest anatomical evidence shows that anesthetics spread into the thoracic paravertebral space to exert an analgesic effect. Therefore, we designed this study to compare TMQLB with thoracic paravertebral block (TPVB) in laparoscopic renal surgery in the hope of providing clinical evidence on the analgesic mechanism of TMQLB and its application in laparoscopic renal surgery. ⋯ This will the first randomized controlled trial to compare TMQLB with TPVB for analgesia in laparoscopic surgery. This trial aims to provide important clinical evidence to elaborate on the analgesic mechanism of TMQLB.
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After publication of the original article [1], the authors have notified us that their originally submitted Table 1 was mistakenly replaced with Fig. 3 during editing. The original article has been corrected. The publisher apologizes to the readers for the inconvenience caused.
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Marked ethnic disparities on cervical cancer screening have been observed among South Asian women. Multiple barriers, such as language difficulties, poor access to screening services, values, and beliefs, were identified. Multimedia interventions led by community health workers (CHWs) would likely reduce screening disparities and increase cervical screening uptake among South Asian women. This study aims to assess the effects of a CHW-led multimedia intervention on the uptake of cervical cancer screening among South Asian women. ⋯ The results of this study will potentially provide significant practical implications for addressing the needs and increasing the uptake of cervical cancer screening among South Asian women.