Latest Articles
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J Pain Symptom Manage · Jan 2025
ReviewEffectiveness of music therapy, aromatherapy, and massage therapy on people in palliative care with end-of-life needs: A systematic review.
Music therapy, aromatherapy and massage therapy are widely used in palliative care in patients near end-of-life with the aim to reduce symptom burden and improve quality of life (QoL). Recent research shows an increase in popularity and use of complementary and integrative medicine however a more thorough evidence base about their usefulness is required. ⋯ Main results found that music and massage therapy had the most potential benefits on a range of outcome parameters, including pain and QoL. Future studies may consider using more qualitative and/or mixed methods to provide a more comprehensive evaluation of treatment.
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Palliative medicine · Jan 2025
Randomized Controlled TrialMixed methods process evaluation of an advance care planning intervention among nursing home staff.
We developed the ACP+ intervention to support nursing home staff with implementation of advance care planning. While ACP+ was found to improve staff's self-efficacy, it did not change their knowledge about advance care planning. ⋯ There was limited staff engagement. Management ownership, clear roles, and collaborative practices may enhance nursing home advance care planning. Accessible and ongoing training for all staff, and ample practical learning opportunities are needed.
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Eur. J. Clin. Invest. · Jan 2025
ReviewCatheter-related deep vein thrombosis: Where are we at and where are we going? Updates and ongoing unmet clinical needs.
Catheter-related thrombosis (CRT) is one of the major complications affecting patients with indwelling venous catheters, usually involving the upper extremity deep venous system. This condition can lead to potentially life-threatening complications such as pulmonary embolism and sepsis. The risk of developing CRT varies depending on type of catheters and patient characteristics. Despite advances in materials and technologies, the actual incidence of CRT is still considerable. Available evidence on CRT management remains controversial, and clinical guidelines base their recommendations on data from non-catheter related upper extremity or lower extremity deep venous thromboses. ⋯ The management of CRT is still challenging with constant need for updated evidence to support tailored approaches.
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In the last 2 decades the development of high-resolution manometry (HRM) has changed and revolutionized the diagnostic assessment of patients complain foregut symptoms. The role of HRM before and after antireflux procedure remains unclear, especially in surgical practice, where a clear understanding of esophageal physiology and hiatus anatomy is essential for optimal outcome of antireflux surgery (ARS). Surgeons and gastroenterologists (GIs) agree that assessing patients following antireflux procedures can be challenging. Although endoscopy and barium-swallow can reveal anatomic abnormalities, physiological information on HRM allowing insight into the cause of eventually recurrent symptoms could be key to clinical decision-making. ⋯ This international initiative developed by surgeons and GIs together, summarizes the state of our knowledge of the use of HRM pre-ARS and post-ARS. The Padova Classification was developed to facilitate the interpretation of HRM studies of patients underwent ARS.
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An increased understanding of the predisposing genetics and complex pathogenic mechanisms of Alzheimer's disease have facilitated delineation of the long preclinical course and re-invigorated the search for disease-modifying treatments. Establishment of accurate blood-based biomarkers has enabled preclinical identification of early disease and permits trials of preventative treatment and quantitative monitoring of therapeutic effects. The broad range of therapeutic possibilities encompasses gene editing, enzyme activators and inhibitors, antisense oligonucleotides, and antagonists of receptors for inflammatory mediators.