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Megestrol acetate versus dexamethasone to prevent nausea and vomiting in patients with gastric or gastro-oesophageal junction cancer treated with oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy: study protocol of a multicentre, randomised, non-inferiority trial

Por: Luo · H. · Hu · Q. · Zeng · L. · Huang · Q. · Luo · Y. · Li · T. · Chen · P. · Yi · C. · Gou · H.
Introduction

Oxaliplatin is widely used in the treatment of gastric and gastro-oesophageal junction cancer. However, oxaliplatin-induced nausea and vomiting often complicate treatment and negatively affect patients’ quality of life. The current standard antiemetic regimen—dexamethasone (DEX) plus palonosetron—offers only limited efficacy, benefiting approximately 70% of patients, and is associated with steroid-related adverse effects, including insomnia and gastrointestinal bleeding. Consequently, there is a clear clinical need for effective DEX-free antiemetic regimens. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of megestrol acetate versus DEX in preventing oxaliplatin-induced nausea and vomiting in patients with gastric or gastro-oesophageal junction cancer.

Method and analysis

This is an investigator-led, multicentre, randomised-controlled, open-label, phase III, non-inferiority trial. Chemotherapy-naïve patients scheduled to receive oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy are randomly (1:1) assigned to receive either megestrol acetate (megestrol acetate group) or DEX (DEX group) in combination with palonosetron. The primary endpoint is the complete response (CR; no vomiting and no rescue therapy) rate during the first 120 hours following the initiation of chemotherapy (0–120 hours). Secondary endpoints include the following indicators: CR rate in acute period (0–24 hours), CR rate in delayed period (24–120 hours), time to treatment failure, frequency of salvage medication use, nausea, anorexia, adverse events and quality of life.

The study will evaluate the efficacy and safety of megestrol acetate compared with DEX for prevention of oxaliplatin-induced nausea and vomiting in patients with gastric or gastro-oesophageal junction cancer. If proven effective, the results might inform future antiemetic strategies in the long term to (1) provide a novel DEX-free antiemetic treatment for prevention of moderate-emetogenic chemotherapy, (2) reduce DEX-related adverse effects and improve quality of life in patients with gastric or gastro-oesophageal junction cancer and (3) support the potential incorporation of megestrol acetate into standard antiemetic medications.

Ethics and dissemination

The study protocol is conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki and approved by the Certified Review Board of West China Hospital, Sichuan University (Ethics Approval No 1116/2023). The results of this study will be disseminated via presentations at national and international scientific conferences and publication in peer-reviewed journals.

Trial registration number

ChiCTR2300075943.

Effect of home-based walking exercise and education on early functional recovery after lung cancer surgery: protocol for the WalkLung multicentre randomised controlled trial

Por: Zhang · Y. · Liu · X. · Shi · X. · Feng · P. · Chen · Y. · Lei · C. · Zeng · H. · Li · T. · Gui · P. · Li · M. · Wang · L. · Zhang · R. · He · Y. · Chen · Y. · Chen · D. · Zhang · Y. · Liao · J. · Wei · X. · Tian · B. · Liu · X. · Li · Q. · Shi · Q. · Chen · X. · Dai · W.
Introduction

Walking, as a simple, low-cost and easily implemented form of exercise, offers multiple health advantages. The WalkLung trial aims to evaluate the efficacy of a home-based walking exercise and education intervention in promoting early functional recovery after lung cancer surgery.

Methods and analysis

WalkLung is a multicentre, parallel-group, randomised controlled trial conducted at three hospitals in China, with stratification by study centre. A total of 116 patients with postoperative lung cancer will be randomised in a 1:1 ratio to either the intervention group (home-based walking exercise and education for 4 weeks) or the control group (usual care). The primary outcome is the longitudinal walking difficulty score during the 4-week postdischarge, measured by the validated perioperative symptom assessment for lung surgery scale (0–10 scale), assessed at discharge and weekly for 4 weeks. Secondary outcomes are the 6-min walk test, pulmonary function, complications, physical activity level, quality of life, social functioning, exercise adherence and adverse events. Long-term outcomes (up to 6 months) will be analysed and reported separately. All analyses will use an intention-to-treat approach, with outcome measures analysed as appropriate using generalised estimating equations for repeated measures, and t-tests or 2 tests.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval was obtained from the Ethics Committee for Medical Research and New Medical Technology of Sichuan Cancer Hospital (No. SCCHEC-02-2025-091) and all participating subcentres. Written informed consent will be obtained from all participants. The manuscript is based on protocol V.1.0 (2 January 2025). The study findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journal publications and conference presentations.

Trial registration number

ChiCTR2500103081.

Efficacy and Safety of Silver Sulfadiazine Dressings and Nanocrystalline Silver Dressings on Burns: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis

ABSTRACT

Aim

Nanocrystalline silver dressings are increasingly used as alternatives to silver sulfadiazine dressings in burn management, but comparative evidence remains inconclusive. This meta-analysis aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of nanocrystalline silver dressings versus silver sulfadiazine dressings in burn patients.

Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis following PRISMA guidelines. The review was registered with PROSPERO (CRD420251060978).

Data Sources

PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library and Web of Science were searched from inception through April 2025.

Methods

Randomized controlled trials comparing nanocrystalline silver dressings with silver sulfadiazine dressings in burn patients were included. Primary outcomes were wound healing time and adverse events. Secondary outcomes included complete re-epithelialization rates and dressing change frequency. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. Evidence certainty was evaluated using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations framework. Meta-analysis was performed using Review Manager 5.4.

Results

Eight randomized controlled trials (724 patients) were included. Nanocrystalline silver dressings significantly reduced wound healing time (mean difference [MD] = −3.29 days, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −3.82 to −2.76; p < 0.00001; I 2 = 0%) and dressing change frequency (MD = −8.76, 95% CI: −12.68 to −4.85; p < 0.00001; I 2 = 94%). No significant differences were found in re-epithelialization rates (odds ratio = 1.08, p = 0.80) or adverse events (risk difference = −0.00, p = 0.99). Evidence certainty was low to very low across all outcomes.

Conclusions

Nanocrystalline silver dressings may offer advantages over silver sulfadiazine dressings in reducing wound healing time and dressing change frequency in burn patients, but the overall certainty of evidence is low to very low. Future well-powered, multicenter trials with standardized outcomes and extended follow-up are needed.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

These findings support the consideration of nanocrystalline silver dressings for burn wound management, particularly for reducing wound healing time and nursing workload associated with dressing changes. However, dressing selection should be guided by burn depth, infection risk, patient-specific factors, and resource availability.

Reporting Method

We have adhered to relevant EQUATOR guidelines, particularly the PRISMA checklist.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

Systematic Review Registration

PROSPERO CRD420251060978.

Systematic review of prediction models and meta-analysis of risk factors for invasive fungal infection in children

Por: Liu · J. · Gao · R. · Huang · L. · Zhu · Y. · Cheng · G. · Zeng · L. · Yu · Q. · Li · H. · Zhang · L.
Objectives

To review the application of prediction models and risk factors identified by prediction models for invasive fungal infection (IFI) in children, and assess model performance, methodological rigour and applicability.

Design

This is a systematic review of diagnostic prediction models and a meta-analysis of the risk factors. This study was registered on PROSPERO and performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis and Prediction model risk of bias assessment tool.

Data sources

PubMed, Embase (Ovid), Medline, Cochrane Library and four Chinese Databases were searched on 10 Mar 2025.

Eligibility criteria

We included original studies that developed diagnostic prediction models for IFI in children and excluded the informal records.

Data extraction and synthesis

Odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) was calculated for risk factors, and a random-effects meta-analysis was applied to factors reported in at least two studies. For prediction models, a descriptive analysis was conducted to summarise model characteristics, model performance and the risk of bias.

Results

Nine studies were included from 4069 articles. Nine studies developed ten diagnostic prediction models, and logistic regression was the most commonly used method. The predictive performance showed an area under receiver operating curves (AUROC) ranging from 0.76 to 0.95, but meta-analysis of AUROC was not conducted due to heterogeneity. All studies were identified as having a high risk of bias in critical appraisal, particularly in the analysis, mainly due to the lack of validation, as well as the failure to appropriately evaluate model performance and overfitting. Only two of nine studies that developed prediction models used internal or external validation.

Conclusions

Logistic regression is a common method for predicting IFI in children, although machine learning methods have been popular in prediction models. Our study identified all studies as high risk of bias. To reduce bias, studies should use calibration measures, internal and external validation more frequently, and consider shrinkage methods when developing models.

Reliability and validity of EuroQol-5 Dimensions-5 Levels in patients with haematologic malignancies: a cross-sectional study in China

Por: Qin · W. · Chen · Y. · Ouyang · Y. · Xiao · H. · Yu · D. · Zeng · C. · Chen · J. · Chen · T. · Huang · H. · Qian · Z. · Chen · W. · Xu · Y.
Objectives

Robust assessment of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is essential for evaluating the disease burden in patients with haematologic malignancies. This study examined the performance of the EuroQol-5 Dimensions-5 Levels (EQ-5D) instrument in patients with multiple myeloma (MM), acute leukaemia (AL) and lymphoma using time trade-off (TTO)-elicited utility scores as the reference, and explored factors contributing to discrepancies between EQ-5D and TTO utilities.

Design

We performed a cross-sectional observational study using EQ-5D and TTO to assess HRQoL.

Setting

A leading tertiary care hospital in China.

Participants

158 patients consecutively admitted to hospital for MM (n=50), AL (n=63) and lymphoma (n=45) between January and August 2024.

Outcome measures

The primary outcome was the EQ-5D performance in terms of internal consistency (Cronbach’s α), criterion validity (Spearman’s correlation with TTO), and structural validity (exploratory factor analysis). The secondary outcome was the patient characteristics associated with discrepancies between EQ-5D and TTO utilities.

Results

TTO utility scores were highest in AL (0.798), followed by lymphoma (0.755) and MM (0.693). EQ-5D utility values were consistently higher than TTO across all groups. Among the three groups, EQ-5D demonstrated the best psychometric performance in patients with MM, with excellent internal consistency (Cronbach’s α=0.899), strongest correlation with TTO (r=0.538, p

Conclusions

EQ-5D performed well in patients with MM, supporting its use in this population. In patients with AL, adjustments for clinical characteristics such as chronic kidney failure may improve the accuracy of EQ-5D utility values. The poor psychometric performance of EQ-5D in patients with lymphoma raises concerns about its appropriateness as a standalone instrument for HRQoL.

Current Status and Influencing Factors of Death Preparedness in Advanced Cancer Patients Based on the PRECEDE‐PROCEED Model: A Cross‐Sectional Study

ABSTRACT

Background

Death preparedness is an important prerequisite for improving the quality of life and the quality of death in advanced cancer patients. However, research on the level of death preparedness in patients is insufficient, and there is little understanding of the current status and influencing factors of death preparedness in advanced cancer patients.

Aim

This study aims to assess the current status of death preparedness and its influencing factors in advanced cancer patients.

Methods

Based on the PRECEDE-PROCEED model, a structured survey questionnaire was designed to collect data on personal factors (such as gender, age and residence area), interpersonal factors (such as social support, caregiver readiness and healthcare worker readiness) and social factors (such as care resources, policy support and information supply). Through multiple linear regression and BP neural network analysis, the study explores the impact and significance of these influencing factors on death preparedness in advanced cancer patients.

Results

A total of 930 valid questionnaires were collected in this study. The death preparedness score in advanced cancer patients was 72.18 ± 22.82, indicating a moderate level, with the highest score being the ‘reflexive care’ dimension and the lowest score being the ‘hospice programme’ dimension. Multivariate analysis revealed that meaning in life and social support were the most significant predictors of death preparedness in advanced cancer patients. In addition, personal factors such as dignity, household income and coping style, also played an important role. Interpersonal factors like social support, as well as social factors such as care resources and policy support, also had an impact on patients' death preparedness to some extent.

Conclusion

Death preparedness in advanced cancer patients is generally at a moderate level, and death preparedness is influenced by a combination of personal factors, interpersonal factors and social factors.

Impact

This study is based on the PRECEDE-PROCEED model to comprehensively explore the influencing factors of death preparedness in advanced cancer patients. It provides theoretical support for improving life services for advanced cancer patients. It offers valuable practical experience and insights for societal attention and reform in end-of-life care.

Patient or Public Contribution

No Patient or Public Contributions were included in this paper.

Research on latent class of multisymptom characteristics and transition mechanism of patients with coronary heart disease after PCI: protocol for a multicentre cross-sectional and prospective longitudinal study

Por: You · J.-C. · Li · Q. · Chen · R. · Zhang · W.-K. · Liu · Y.-Q. · Zeng · W. · Huang · Y.
Background

Post-percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) patients frequently experience multidimensional symptoms (somatic, psychological, social), yet research remains fragmented. Current evidence lacks integration of dynamic symptom interactions and longitudinal evolution patterns. This study addresses critical gaps by characterising latent symptom classes and transition mechanisms during recovery, accounting for sociodemographic environmental influences across three Chinese provinces.

Methods and analysis

A multicentre study combines cross-sectional baseline assessment (T0) with prospective longitudinal follow-ups at 1 month (T1) and 6 months (T2) post-PCI. We will recruit 600 patients presenting with acute coronary syndrome and undergoing their first PCI from six Class A Tertiary Hospitals across Hunan, Jiangsu and Hainan provinces (July 2025–January 2026). Symptom phenotyping will use validated instruments: Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System-29, Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia and Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale. Latent profile analysis will identify baseline symptom profiles; latent transition analysis will model probabilities of transitioning between classes over time. Model selection will optimise fit indices (Akaike information criterion/Bayesian information criterion/bootstrap likelihood ratio test bootstrap) and clinical interpretability. Covariate-adjusted analyses will explore sociodemographic and environmental effects on symptom trajectories.

Ethics and dissemination

Approved by the University of South China Ethics Committee (2024NHHL037). Written informed consent precedes participation, with data deidentified and securely stored. Findings will be published in peer-reviewed journals following Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology guidelines and presented at international cardiovascular conferences.

Trial registration number

ChiCTR2500097028.

Epidemiological characteristics of pulmonary thromboembolism in children: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Por: Liu · J. · Ni · X. · Zeng · L. · Song · X. · Diao · S. · Chen · L. · Liu · H. · Zhang · L.
Objectives

Pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE) is rare but potentially life-threatening in children and differs substantially from adult PTE in epidemiology and risk factors. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to summarise the epidemiology, clinical characteristics and risk factors of paediatric PTE.

Design

A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines.

Data sources

We searched eight databases (PubMed, Embase (Ovid), MEDLINE (Ovid), Cochrane Library and four Chinese databases) on 2 March 2023, with an updated search on 2 July 2024.

Eligibility criteria

We included original studies reporting epidemiology (incidence/prevalence, major clinical outcomes and long-term sequelae), clinical characteristics, or risk factors of PTE in patients younger than 18 years. Reviews, case reports/series without extractable epidemiological data and studies not focused on paediatric PTE were excluded.

Data extraction and synthesis

Two reviewers independently screened studies, extracted data and assessed risk of bias using appropriate tools for observational studies. A random-effects model was applied to pool prevalence and incidence estimates, along with related outcomes, and their 95% CIs, regardless of the degree of heterogeneity.

Results

From 14 438 records, 26 studies were included: 16 cross-sectional, 9 cohort and 1 case–control study. 23 studies were marked as high quality and three as moderate quality. The pooled incidence of paediatric PTE was 0.016% (95% CI 0.0011% to 0.0298%). Autopsy-confirmed prevalence was 5.29% (95% CI 1.28% to 9.30%). Case fatality was 4.04% (95% CI 0.49% to 7.58%), and recurrence was 26.31% (95% CI 19.62% to 33.01%). Available evidence suggested an increasing trend in PTE occurrence over recent years. Female sex and oral contraceptive use were frequently reported clinical characteristics in adolescents. Reported risk factors clustered into genetic predisposition, underlying diseases, immobilisation or surgery and central venous catheter-related thrombosis.

Conclusions

Paediatric PTE remains uncommon but appears to be increasing, with notable recurrence and non-negligible fatality. Given heterogeneous study settings and definitions, further high-quality, population-based studies are needed to refine epidemiological estimates and clarify age-specific risk profiles, thereby informing prevention strategies and clinical management.

Trial registration number

PREPARE-2023CN922.

Cross-sectional observational study evaluating social brain health in HIV using a research domain criteria-based approach: a protocol

Por: Vance · D. E. · Brennan-Ing · M. · Lambert · C. C. · Hellemann · G. · Zeng · X. · Lee · J.
Introduction

Some people with HIV (PWH) experience brain changes that affect neurocognition, but little is known about how HIV impacts social cognition or related brain regions. Social cognition, the ability to perceive, understand and respond to social information, is important for maintaining relationships and quality of life. This article provides the protocol for the first comprehensive study examining social brain function in PWH and people without HIV (PWoH). With three aims, this study will: (1) examine neural circuits related to social cognition; (2) examine social cognitive performance across two social cognitive domains and (3) examine the role of social cognition in everyday social functioning.

Methods and analysis

Referred to as Social Brain Health Study in HIV Study, this cross-sectional study will enrol 105 PWH and 105 demographically matched PWoH aged 18–65 years. The study administers a comprehensive assessment battery across two visits within a 2-week period. Visit 1 includes behavioural measures of social cognition (Perceiving Social Cues and Understanding Others), neurocognition and social functioning (social network size and loneliness). Visit 2 involves functional MRI procedures with three social cognitive tasks designed to activate key brain regions (ie, fusiform face area, superior temporal gyrus, temporo-parietal junction, dorsal medial prefrontal cortex).

Ethics and dissemination

This study was funded by the National Institute of Mental Health (MH139613) and approved by the Institutional Review Board of the University of Alabama at Birmingham (IRB-300013394). Data collection is ongoing. The first results are expected to be submitted for publication in 2030. Findings of this study will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at local, national and international conferences as well as patient organisations such as AIDS service organisations and community talks.

The association between epicardial adipose tissue thickness and diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, hepatosteatosis, pancreatic steatosis and pancreatitis

by Ece Zengin, Aybuke Ucgun, Mehmet Emir Çevik, Sehnaz Evrimler, Ihsaniye Suer Dogan

Background

Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) is associated with cardiometabolic disorders such as diabetes mellitus (DM), hyperlipidemia, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. However, its potential relationship with pancreatic steatosis and pancreatitis remains unclear, and existing studies offer inconsistent findings. Therefore, a clearer understanding of whether EAT reflects broader systemic ectopic fat burden or inflammatory processes is needed.This study evaluated the relationships between EAT thickness and DM, hyperlipidemia, hepatosteatosis, pancreatic steatosis, and pancreatitis.

Methods

This retrospective, single-center study included 200 patients who underwent abdominal CT between 2022 and 2024. EAT thickness was measured at the mid-RCA and LAD levels, and subcutaneous fat was measured at the umbilical level. Liver and pancreatic steatosis were assessed with CT or MRI. Demographic and clinical data (age, gender, LDL cholesterol, diabetes, and history of pancreatitis) were collected. Mann-Whitney U, Spearman correlation, and logistic regression were used in analyses; p  Results

Of the 200 patients, 31.4% had diabetes, 42% had hepatosteatosis, and 73.5% had a history of pancreatitis. EAT and subcutaneous fat were significantly higher in women at all levels (p  Conclusions

EAT thickness is significantly associated with DM, LDL cholesterol, pancreatitis history, and age, supporting its role as a potential imaging biomarker of cardiometabolic risk. These findings suggest that EAT may serve as an imaging marker of broader metabolic and inflammatory burden, supporting its relevance for cardiometabolic risk assessment.

Spherical Video‐Based Virtual Reality for Nurses' Workplace Violence Management: A Convergent Mixed‐Methods Study

ABSTRACT

Aim

To evaluate the feasibility, effectiveness, and acceptability of a spherical video-based virtual reality training programme aimed at helping nurses manage workplace violence.

Design

A convergent mixed-methods study.

Methods

This study included nurses from a tertiary medical centre in Taiwan. The training programme involved four interactive 360° scenarios focused on recognising, de-escalating, and responding to workplace violence. Quantitative measures included risk perception, confidence in coping with aggression, and technology acceptance. Qualitative measures included the participants' learning experiences. Quantitative and qualitative findings were integrated through joint displays.

Results

The programme was feasible, with all participants completing the training. Nurses reported high levels of perceived usefulness and ease of use. Quantitative data revealed considerable improvements in risk awareness and confidence in responding to incidents of violence. Qualitative data revealed that immersion and emotional resonance enhanced engagement, fostered self-reflection, and reinforced learning. Technical challenges included subtitle placement and speech recognition accuracy.

Conclusion

Spherical video-based virtual reality is a feasible, acceptable, and effective training approach that improves nurses' preparedness for managing workplace violence by enhancing situational awareness and confidence in addressing high-risk situations.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Integrating spherical video-based virtual reality into continual education may strengthen nurses' workplace safety competencies, prevent harm from incidents of violence, and improve patient care in stressful environments.

Impact

Workplace violence undermines nurse safety and patient care. Current training modules often lack contextual realism. Our programme improved nurses' awareness, confidence, and reflective learning and was feasible and well accepted. The findings are relevant to nursing educators, hospital administrators, and policymakers seeking sustainable strategies for addressing workplace violence.

Reporting Method

This study adhered to the Revised Standards for Quality Improvement Reporting Excellence.

Patient or Public Contribution

Patients or the public were not involved in the design, conduct, or reporting of this study.

Blood pressure control rates among hypertensive patients managed in community health centres in Shenzhen, China: a megacity population-based observational study

Por: He · J. · Zhang · N. · Kang · L. · Yan · W. · Zeng · H. · Wu · L. · Zhu · Z. · Liu · M. · Liang · W.
Background

Hypertension represents a major public health challenge globally, with a rising prevalence in China. This study aims to explore the factors shaping blood pressure (BP) control among hypertensive patients managed in community health centres (CHCs), with a particular emphasis on the association with age.

Methods

This was a population-based, observational study that used healthcare records from CHC in Shenzhen, covering the period from 1 January 2000 to 8 October 2024. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were employed to assess the independent associations of various factors with BP control rate. Additionally, the study evaluated the relationship between age and BP control across six distinct age subgroups.

Results

The study included 1 073 914 participants who met the eligibility criteria, with 955 415 (88.97%) patients achieving BP control. The median baseline age was 55.9 (IQR 18–109) years. Individuals aged 45 years and above demonstrated better BP control rates (46–55, OR 1.053, 95% CI 1.020 to 1.087; 56–65, OR 1.246, 95% CI 1.205 to 1.289; 66–75, OR 2.183, 95% CI 2.103 to 2.265; >75, OR 2.159, 95% CI 2.060 to 2.262). Among young adults aged 18–35 years, increasing age was consistently associated with poorer BP control across most subgroups. For the middle-aged groups (36–45 and 46–65 years), age had little impact on BP control. In the 66–75 years age range, older age was linked to better BP control in some groups.

Conclusion

The association between age and BP control varied across age groups. Hypertension management strategies should be tailored to address the unique needs of different age groups, geographical regions and targeted populations.

Mindfulness‐Based Interventions to Reduce Stress and Depression Among Midwives and Nurses: A Meta‐Analysis Study

ABSTRACT

Background

Mindfulness-Based Interventions (MBIs) have gained traction in various healthcare settings, particularly for stress reduction among healthcare professionals. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of MBIs on reducing stress and depression in obstetrical nurses.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was done across multiple databases, including Cochrane Library, PsycINFO/PsycNet, PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. The risk of bias for each included study was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. Subgroup analyses were done according to intervention time (less than 8 weeks, 8 weeks, more than 8 weeks) and population. Meta-analysis was done using random-effects models. Effect sizes were calculated using standardized mean differences (SMD). Heterogeneity was assessed using the I 2 statistic.

Results

The sample size in 55 studies was 4612 nurses and midwives (2904 in the intervention group and 1708 in the control group). The meta-analysis showed a significant overall effect of MBIs on reducing stress levels (SMD = −0.71; 95% CI [−0.97, −0.44]; p < 0.001), and depression (SMD = −0.74; 95% CI [−1.35, −0.13]; p < 0.001) among midwives and nurses. Subgroup analysis showed that the effects of intervention duration on reducing stress (X 2 = 3.01, p = 0.220) was not significant, but its effect on depression (X 2 = 61.46, p = 0.000) was significant.

Linking Evidence to Action

Healthcare organizations should integrate structured MBIs into staff wellness initiatives to promote mental well-being. Nursing education programs can include mindfulness components to strengthen coping skills. Future work should also examine combined mindfulness–CBT programs (e.g., MINDBODYSTRONG) and address organizational factors contributing to burnout for a more comprehensive approach.

Network Analysis of Self‐Efficacy and Professional Resilience in Emergency Nurses: A Multi‐Center Cross‐Sectional Study

ABSTRACT

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the network structural characteristics of self-efficacy and professional resilience among emergency nurses, identify core nodes within the network, and elucidate the key interactive mechanisms between these constructs.

Design

Descriptive cross-sectional study.

Methods

A multi-center cross-sectional study was conducted from January to February 2025, involving 612 emergency nurses from 20 hospitals in Sichuan, China. Data were collected using a self-administered demographic questionnaire, the General Self-Efficacy Scale, and the Chinese Emergency Nurse Professional Resilience Tool. An adjacent network integrating professional resilience and self-efficacy was developed. Key covariates—including title, position, tenure in the hospital or emergency department, education, and exposure to workplace violence—were included as control variables. Network precision and stability were evaluated using the correlation stability coefficient and confidence intervals for edge weights. To further test the robustness of the network model, sensitivity analyses were performed by adding each significant covariate to the original model. The Network Comparison Test was then used to compare the covariate-adjusted and unadjusted networks, assessing differences in network structure, overall strength, and edge weights.

Results

The analysis identified S9 as the central node in the network. The overall network showed satisfactory stability and precision. The Network Comparison Test showed no significant differences in network structure or global strength between the adjusted and unadjusted models, indicating that the network was stable and robust to covariate adjustment.

Conclusion

This network analysis revealed the interaction mechanisms between self-efficacy and professional resilience among emergency nurses through contemporaneous network modelling and identified S9 as the core node, suggesting that this coping strategy plays a key role in regulating psychological resources. The overall network demonstrated good stability and precision, with no statistically significant differences between the adjusted and unadjusted models according to the Network Comparison Test. These findings indicate that the network structure was robust to covariate adjustment and provide a reference for developing and optimising intervention strategies to enhance professional resilience among emergency nurses.

Implications

For Emergency Nurses and the Management of Emergency Nursing Practice: What problem does this study address?

This study addresses the gap in understanding how self-efficacy and occupational resilience interact in emergency nurses under high-stress conditions.

Key Findings

A contemporaneous network analysis revealed a central node linking self-efficacy and resilience, highlighting key pathways in their mutual influence.

Impact

The findings offer practical guidance for emergency nursing management, supporting the development of targeted strategies to strengthen nurses' resilience, enhance professional competence, and improve the quality of emergency care.

Reporting Method

This study is reported using the STROBE guidelines.

Patient or Public Contribution

No Patient or Public Involvement: This study did not include patient or public involvement in its design, conduct, or reporting.

Prediction of Job Burnout in Nurses Based on the Job Demands‐Resources Model: An Explainable Machine Learning Approach

ABSTRACT

Aim

To combine the Job Demand-Resource (JD-R) model with machine learning (ML) techniques to identify the key factors affecting job burnout (JB) among Chinese nurses.

Design

A Cross-Sectional Study.

Methods

This study utilised a stratified sampling method to recruit 3449 eligible nurses from eight cities in Shandong Province between June and December 2021. After data cleaning, 2998 valid samples were retained. The dataset was randomly split into a training set (75%) and a test set (25%). The Boruta algorithm was used to select relevant variables for model construction. Six-millilitre models were compared using cross-validation, with mean absolute error (MAE), root mean square error (RMSE) and R-squared (R 2) used to select the best model. The Shapley Additive Explanation (SHAP) method was used to identify key predictors of JB.

Results

The average JB score among nurses was (32.88 ± 11.45). Among the 20 variables, 17 were identified by the Boruta algorithm as strongly associated with JB, including 7 job demand-related variables and 10 job resource-related variables. After comparing 6-ml models, the Random Forest was identified as the optimal model (MAE = 6.56, RMSE = 8.86, R 2 = 0.63). SHAP analysis further revealed the importance ranking of these 17 variables and identified four key predictors: psychological distress (SHAP = 4.07), perceived organisational support (SHAP = 2.03), emotional intelligence (SHAP = 1.81) and D-type personality (SHAP = 1.73).

Conclusion

By integrating the JD-R model framework, ML algorithms proved effective in identifying critical predictors of nurses' JB. SHAP analysis identified four primary determinants: psychological distress, perceived organisational support, emotional intelligence and D-type personality. These findings provide novel insights for nursing administrators to optimise intervention strategies.

Impact

Not applicable.

Patient or Public Involvement

This study did not include patient or public involvement in its design, conduct or reporting.

Development of an educational video to support guideline panels in incorporating patient values and preferences into recommendation-making: qualitative one-on-one interviews and brainstorming meetings

Por: Zeng · L. · Li · R. · Li · S.-A. · Clarissa · S. · Agoritsas · T. · Chen · J. · Li · X. · Vandvik · P. O. · Brignardello-Petersen · R. · Li · X. · Zhang · L. · Guyatt · G.
Objectives

The aim of this study was to develop an educational video introducing an innovative panel survey approach to facilitate guideline panels in making inferences about patient values and preferences.

Design

A user testing of the educational video through one-on-one interviews and iterative refinement of the video through brainstorming meetings.

Setting

Interviews and brainstorming meetings were conducted through Zoom.

Participants

The participants of the interviews include guideline panellists who had used the panel survey approach, and guideline panellists who had not used the approach but would or would not participate in a panel survey soon. The participants of the brainstorming meetings were a steering committee with expertise in guideline methodology and qualitative research.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The understandability and usefulness of the educational video.

Results

We interviewed 18 guideline panellists from eight different guideline panels, all of whom carefully reviewed the video. Most participants found the video useful in explaining the panel survey approach and its role in incorporating patient values and preferences. Participants suggested improvements, including clarifying key concepts and using plain language instead of technical terminology to make the content more accessible. The major change the steering committee decided to make through brainstorming meetings was to add clarification, refine the wording and replace some text with animation.

Conclusion

User testing resulted in an improved educational video that is more useful and understandable for guideline panellists. Wider implementation of this resource has the potential to enhance the incorporation of patient values and preferences in guideline recommendations, supporting more patient-centred decision-making.

Patient perspectives on harmonica playing as an intervention for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a qualitative study

Por: Chen · W. · Huang · J. · Zeng · Q. · Ye · Z. J. · Li · J. · Li · J.
Objectives

To qualitatively explore the lived experiences and perceptions of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) using the harmonica as a therapeutic intervention.

Design

A qualitative study.

Setting

The study was conducted at a tertiary hospital in Guangzhou, China.

Participants

Patients with COPD who had participated in supervised harmonica playing for at least 12 weeks. (clinical trial registration: NCT05995847).

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The study focused on patients’ experiences, including perceived facilitators, barriers and needs regarding the intervention.

Results

We interviewed 19 patients with COPD between September and December 2024, with interviews lasting an average of 54 min (range: 36–77 min). Five primary themes were identified. Participants reported better physical functioning, including better breathing control, enhanced functional capacity and improved sleep quality. Psychological well-being improved with increased relaxation, emotional improvement and mental engagement. Patients also experienced increased social engagement and role shift, such as expanded social connections, family support and restored family roles. Harmonica playing promoted enhanced self-reliance and personal development, with increased self-management confidence, mastery of the harmonica and encouragement for lifelong learning. Barriers and challenges included physical limitations, breathing difficulties, adherence issues and concerns about the sustainability of long-term benefits.

Conclusions

Our study indicates that harmonica playing could improve physical health, psychological well-being, social participation and self-reliance, although barriers persist. Tailored programmes could enhance benefits and adherence, and future research should evaluate durability within comprehensive COPD care.

Trial registration number

NCT05995847.

Effectiveness of E‐Health Interventions on Improving Physical Activity in Pregnant Women: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis

ABSTRACT

Aims

This study aimed to (1) evaluate the effectiveness of e-health interventions in improving physical activity and associated health outcomes during pregnancy, (2) compare the e-health functions employed across interventions and (3) systematically identify the behaviour change techniques (BCTs) used and examine their interrelationships.

Design

A systematic review and meta-analysis following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines.

Methods

Randomised controlled trials were included. Meta-analyses and subgroup analyses were performed using RevMan 5.3. Social network analysis was conducted to determine the most central BCTs within the intervention landscape.

Data Sources

Ten databases were searched, including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, ProQuest, Scopus, SinoMed, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, WanFang and the China Science and Technology Journal Database, from inception to April 22, 2024.

Results

Thirty-five studies were included. Pooled analyses indicated that e-health interventions significantly improved both total (SMD: 0.19; 95% CI: 0.10 to 0.27; I 2 = 55%) and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (SMD: 0.16, 95% CI: 0.06 to 0.26; I 2 = 53%) in pregnant women. Subgroup analyses revealed that interventions based on theoretical frameworks and those not specifically targeting overweight or obese women demonstrated greater effectiveness. Additionally, e-health interventions were associated with significant reductions in both total and weekly gestational weight gain. Six of the twelve e-health functions were utilised, with ‘client education and behaviour change communication’ being the most prevalent. Thirty unique BCTs were identified; among them, ‘instruction on how to perform the behaviour’, ‘self-monitoring’, ‘problem solving’, and ‘goal setting’ showed the highest degree of interconnectedness.

Conclusion

E-health interventions are effective in enhancing physical activity and reducing gestational weight gain during pregnancy. Incorporating theoretical frameworks and well-integrated BCTs is recommended to optimise intervention outcomes.

Relevant to the Clinical Practice

Integrating e-health interventions into existing perinatal care models holds promise for enhancing physical activity among pregnant women and improving maternal health outcomes.

Reporting Method

This study adhered to the PRISMA checklist.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public involvement.

Trial Registration

The study protocol was preregistered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (CRD42024518740)

Digital versus face-to-face gut-directed psychotherapy for irritable bowel syndrome: a protocol of systematic review and network meta-analysis

Por: Zhao · Y. · Wan · R. · Li · N. · Thitinun · B. · Lai · R. · Hou · Y. · Zeng · X. · Zhang · Y. · Chen · X. · Zheng · Q. · Li · Y.
Introduction

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common functional gastrointestinal disorder worldwide. Although not life-threatening, its chronic and recurrent nature greatly impacts patients’ quality of life. There is strong evidence that gut-directed psychotherapies (GDPs) help improve IBS symptoms. With technological advances, digital GDP is increasingly used as an alternative to traditional face-to-face GDP. This study will compare the clinical effectiveness of digital versus face-to-face GDP for IBS through network meta-analysis.

Methods and analysis

We will search English databases (PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE and Web of Science) and Chinese databases (China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang, VIP and Chinese Biomedical Database) for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of digital or face-to-face GDP for IBS. The search will cover the period from database inception to May 2025. We will perform multivariate network meta-analyses within a frequentist framework, using the mvmeta command in STATA V.16 software, and traditional pairwise meta-analysis using the DerSimonian-Laird random-effects model. The Cochrane Risk of Bias (RoB) tool (V.2) will be used to assess the RoB of each RCT, and the Confidence in Network Meta-Analysis (CINeMA) tool will be used to evaluate the certainty of the evidence.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval is not required for this systematic review, as it involves the collection and synthesis of data from previously published primary studies.

OSF registration

Open Science Framework (OSF) registration: DOI 10.17605/OSF.IO/87463.

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