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Lu T, Liu B, Lu C, Du Z, Yang K, Ge L. Reporting quality of acupuncture overviews: A methodological investigation based on the PRIOR statement. Complement Ther Med 2024; 82:103034. [PMID: 38521419 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2024.103034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Acupuncture overviews are increasing rapidly; however, their reporting quality is yet unclear. We aimed to investigate the reporting quality of relevant overviews according to the preferred reporting items for overviews of reviews (PRIOR) statement. METHODS We systematically searched PubMed from inception to August 16, 2022 for overviews on acupuncture therapies. Reporting quality of included overviews was evaluated using the PRIOR statement, and the results were cross-checked. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to assess the predictors of the reporting completeness. GraphPad 9.4 was utilized to generate an evidence map, Excel 2019 was used to extract and manage data, and R 4.2.3 was used for data analysis. RESULTS A total of 49 overviews published from 2006 to 2022 were included, of which China ranked first with 38 overviews. The most frequently searched database was PubMed/ Medline (n = 48, 98%), and commonly used methodological quality assessment tool was AMSTAR-2 (n = 14, 29%). The overarching themes centered on acupuncture for obstetrics, gynecology, reproductive diseases, as well as depression, anxiety, and insomnia. Reporting quality needs to be improved involving the definition of systematic reviews (SRs), overlap of primary studies and SRs, methods for managing discrepant data across SRs, risk of bias in primary studies, heterogeneity, and sensitivity analysis of synthesized results, reporting bias assessment, and registration and protocol. Moreover, publication in recent years and receiving funding support were significantly associated with higher overall reporting quality score (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION Based on the PRIOR statement, this methodological study indicates that the reporting quality of the included acupuncture overviews is poor. In the future, authors of overviews are encouraged to use the PRIOR statement for standardized reporting. Furthermore, it is recommended that journal editors mandate the inclusion of this statement in authors' reports and require a complete PRIOR checklist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Lu
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Bin Liu
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics and Precision Medicine for Surgical Oncology in Gansu Province, Gansu Provincial Hospital, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Cuncun Lu
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China.
| | - Zouxi Du
- Department of Clinical Medicine, The First Clinical Medical College of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Kehu Yang
- Evidence-Based Medicine Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China; Evidence-Based Social Science Research Center, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Long Ge
- Evidence-Based Medicine Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China; Evidence-Based Social Science Research Center, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China.
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Liampas I, Bourlios S, Siokas V, Aloizou AM, Dervenis P, Nasios G, Bakirtzis C, Bogdanos DP, Dardiotis E. Vitamin D and tension-type headache: causal association or epiphenomenon? Int J Neurosci 2024; 134:441-451. [PMID: 35924588 DOI: 10.1080/00207454.2022.2110495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Revised: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
Background-Purpose: Low serum vitamin D (VD) has been already associated with a series of highly prevalent pain-related conditions, including fibromyalgia, migraine and chronic widespread pain. Considering the potential interplay between VD and pain signalling pathways, the association of VD with tension-type headache (TTH) was reviewed. Methods: A multifaceted narrative approach assessing the relationship of serum VD with TTH and TTH parameters, as well as the efficacy of VD supplementation for the prevention of TTH, was fostered. MEDLINE, CENTRAL and EMBASE were comprehensively searched for this purpose, while Google Scholar was also explored according to a structured approach. ClinicalTrials.gov and European Union Clinical Trials Register were explored for ongoing prevention trials. Results: Although available evidence was suggestive of an association between VD and TTH, mainly of the chronic type, the causal nature of the association remains to be determined. Considering the lack of longitudinal evidence, this relationship could arguably reflect behavioural patterns of headache sufferers. On the other hand, evidence principally originated from tertiary clinical settings (severe comorbidity burden) and researchers tend to report a concomitant association of both entities with generalized musculoskeletal compromise. In this context, the association between TTH and VD may represent nothing more than a secondary by-product of the simultaneous relationship of other comorbid diseases-conditions with both TTH and low serum VD. Regarding its efficacious properties, only one ongoing trial specifically designed to explore the efficacy of VD in chronic TTH in adults was retrieved. Conclusions: There is no evidenced based indication for VD supplementation in TTH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Liampas
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | | | - Vasileios Siokas
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Athina-Maria Aloizou
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | | | - Grigorios Nasios
- Department of Speech and Language Therapy, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Christos Bakirtzis
- Multiple Sclerosis Center, B' Department of Neurology, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Dimitrios P Bogdanos
- Department of Rheumatology and clinical Immunology, University Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Efthimios Dardiotis
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
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Balas EA, Bussi BS, Asem N, Amour C, Mwanziva C, Vazquez J, Labib NA, Price M, Mahande MJ, Baskar R, Dhantu S, Townsend TG, Aubert C. FAIR reporting of clinical trials for public health practice. PROCEEDINGS OF THE EUROPEAN ACADEMY OF SCIENCES & ARTS 2024; 3:19. [PMID: 38845630 PMCID: PMC11154655 DOI: 10.4081/peasa.19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
The number of clinical trials is rapidly growing, and automation of literature processing is becoming desirable but unresolved. Our purpose was to assess and increase the readiness of clinical trial reports for supporting automated retrieval and implementation in public health practice. We searched the Medline database for a random sample of clinical trials of HIV/AIDS management with likely relevance to public health in Africa. Five authors assessed trial reports for inclusion, extracted data, and assessed quality based on the FAIR principles of scientific data management (findable, accessible, interoperable, and reusable). Subsequently, we categorized reported results in terms of outcomes and essentials of implementation. A sample of 96 trial reports was selected. Information about the tested intervention that is essential for practical implementation was largely missing, including personnel resources needed 32·3% (.95 CI: 22·9-41·6); material/supplies needed 33·3% (.95 CI: 23·9-42·8); major equipment/building investment 42·8% (CI: 33·8-53·7); methods of educating providers 53·1% (CI: 43·1-63·4); and methods of educating the community 27·1% (CI: 18·2-36·0). Overall, 65% of studies measured health/biologic outcomes, among them, only a fraction showed any positive effects. Several specific design elements were identified that frequently make clinical trials unreal and their results unusable. To sort and interpret clinical trial results easier and faster, a new reporting structure, a practice- and retrieval-oriented trial outline with numeric outcomes (PROTON) table was developed and illustrated. Many clinical trials are either inconsequential by design or report incomprehensible results. According to the latest expectations of FAIR scientific data management, all clinical trial reports should include a consistent and practical impact-oriented table of clinical trial results.
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Affiliation(s)
- E. Andrew Balas
- Biomedical Research Innovation Laboratory, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Bussi S. Bussi
- Military College of Medical Sciences, Kawe, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Noha Asem
- Department of Public Health, Cairo University, Egypt
| | - Caroline Amour
- Institute of Public Health, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Tanzania
| | - Charles Mwanziva
- Military College of Medical Sciences, Kawe, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Jose Vazquez
- Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | | | - Matthew Price
- Biomedical Research Innovation Laboratory, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Michael J. Mahande
- Institute of Public Health, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Tanzania
- Management and Development for Health (MDH), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Rohitha Baskar
- New York Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital, New York, NY, USA
| | | | | | - Clément Aubert
- School of Computer and Cyber Sciences, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
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Nousia A, Pappa E, Siokas V, Liampas I, Tsouris Z, Messinis L, Patrikelis P, Manouilidou C, Dardiotis E, Nasios G. Evaluation of the Efficacy and Feasibility of a Telerehabilitation Program Using Language and Cognitive Exercises in Multi-Domain Amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment. Arch Clin Neuropsychol 2023; 38:224-235. [PMID: 36156732 DOI: 10.1093/arclin/acac078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the present study was to investigate the efficacy and feasibility of a telerehabilitation program in multi-domain amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment (md-aMCI). The study sample consisted of 30 patients with md-aMCI and aged 60-80 years. METHODS The participants were randomly divided into two groups. The Training Group (TG), which received cognitive training by using the RehaCom software as well as paper-pencil language training and the Control Group (CG) which received standard clinical care (e.g., psychotherapy or/and physiotherapy). Duration of the telerehabilitation intervention was 15 weeks (twice a week for 60 min/session). RESULTS Our results revealed that the neuropsychological performance of the TG group after the telerehabilitation intervention improved on a statistically significant level on the domains of delayed and working memory, confrontation naming, verbal fluency, and global cognition. Comparison between the TG and CG revealed a significant impact of the telerehabilitation program on the domains of memory (delay and working) and language (naming and verbal fluency) as well as global cognition performance. CONCLUSION The findings of the study are promising in that the telerehabilitation intervention appears to be a useful method in improving or stabilizing cognitive decline in md-aMCI individuals and was a particularly effective alternative approach during the period of the pandemic lockdown. Specifically, the beneficial impact of the telerehabilitation intervention on episodic memory (which is one of the first domains to show impairment in md-aMCI patients) provides us with hope and evidence that these types of interventions may be applied with similar success using face-to-face interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Nousia
- Department of Speech and Language Therapy, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Evangelia Pappa
- Department of Speech and Language Therapy, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Vasileios Siokas
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Ioannis Liampas
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Zisis Tsouris
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Lambros Messinis
- Departement of Psychology, Lab of Cognitive Neuroscience, School of Psychology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Panayiotis Patrikelis
- Departement of Psychology, Lab of Cognitive Neuroscience, School of Psychology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Christina Manouilidou
- Department of Comparative and General Linguistics, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Efthimios Dardiotis
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Grigorios Nasios
- Department of Speech and Language Therapy, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
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Vrysis C, Beneki E, Zintzaras E, Doxani C. Assessment of the reporting quality of randomised controlled trials for vitamin D supplementation in autoimmune thyroid disorders based on the CONSORT statement. Endocrine 2022; 80:346-354. [PMID: 36462148 PMCID: PMC9735118 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-022-03270-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND-PURPOSE Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are the cornerstone of evidence-based medicine, yet their quality is often suboptimal. The Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) statement is a list of advice to upgrade the quality of RCTs. The aim of this study was the assessment of the quality of RCTs for vitamin D supplements in thyroid autoimmunity according to the revised CONSORT 2010 checklist. METHODS Databases were searched for RCTs involving patients with autoimmune thyroid disorders (AITDs) who received vitamin D supplements published from 2011 to 2021. A list of 37-items was used and adherence ≥75% was considered of optimal quality. The primary outcome was the mean CONSORT adherence of studies. Secondary outcomes were the estimation of compliance per CONSORT item and the examination for possible determinants of the reporting quality. RESULTS Thirteen eligible trials were finally included. The mean compliance was 61.15% ± 14.86%. Only threeof the studies (23%) achieved a good reporting quality (≥75%), while ten (77%) were presented with inadequate reporting (<75%). Randomization and blinding were mainly poorly reported. Impact Factor (IF) of journal was associated with the reporting quality in the univariate analysis [p = 0.033, OR = 1.65, 95%CI = (1316, 1773)]. Sample size (p = 0.067), number of authors (p = 0.118) and number of citations (p = 0.125) were marginally not significant. None of the factors showed significant results in multivariate analysis. Reporting quality and IF were strongly positively correlated [Pearson's r = 0.740, p = 0.04]. CONCLUSION This study shows that mean CONSORT adherence of RCTs for Vitamin D supplementation in AITDs is moderate, reflecting that study quality and transparency could be improved with better adherence to CONSORT rules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christos Vrysis
- Department of Biomathematics, University of Thessaly School of Medicine, Papakyriazi 22, 41222, Larissa, Greece
| | - Eirini Beneki
- State Department of Cardiology, Hippokrateion Hospital, 114 Vasilissis Sofias avenue, Athens, Attica, Greece.
| | - Elias Zintzaras
- Department of Biomathematics, University of Thessaly School of Medicine, Papakyriazi 22, 41222, Larissa, Greece
- Center for Clinical Evidence Synthesis, The Institute for Clinical Research and Health Policy Studies, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
- Pharmacology and Drug Development Program, Sackler School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Chrysoula Doxani
- Department of Biomathematics, University of Thessaly School of Medicine, Papakyriazi 22, 41222, Larissa, Greece
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MOBP rs616147 Polymorphism and Risk of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis in a Greek Population: A Case-Control Study. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2021; 57:medicina57121337. [PMID: 34946282 PMCID: PMC8708438 DOI: 10.3390/medicina57121337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: To date, only one study has investigated the association between the rs616147 polymorphism of the Myelin-associated Oligodendrocyte Basic Protein (MOBP) locus and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Materials and Methods: A case-control study was performed. Patients with definite sporadic ALS were prospectively and consecutively recruited from the inpatient and outpatient clinics of the Neurology Department of the General University Hospital of Larissa, Central Greece. Community based, age and sex matched healthy individuals with a free personal and family history constituted the control group. Results: A total of 155 patients with definite sporadic ALS and an equal number of healthy controls were genotyped. The power of our sample size was slightly above 80% and MOBP rs616147 was determined to be in Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium among healthy participants (p = 1.00). According to the univariate analysis, there was no significant relationship between rs616147 and ALS [log-additive OR = 0.85 (0.61, 1.19), over-dominant OR = 0.73 (0.46, 1.15), recessive OR = 1.02 (0.50, 2.09), dominant OR = 0.74 (0.47, 1.16), co-dominant OR1 = 0.71 (0.44, 1.14) and co-dominant OR2 = 0.88 (0.42, 1.84). Additionally, the effect of rs616147 on the age of ALS onset was determined insignificant using both unadjusted and adjusted (sex, site of onset) cox-proportional models. Finally, rs616147 was not related to the site of ALS onset. Conclusions: Our study is the first to report the absence of an association between MOBP rs616147 and ALS among individuals of Greek ancestry. Additional, larger nationwide and multi-ethnic studies are warranted to shed light on the connection between rs616147 and ALS.
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Aloizou AM, Pateraki G, Anargyros K, Siokas V, Bakirtzis C, Sgantzos M, Messinis L, Nasios G, Peristeri E, Bogdanos DP, Doskas TK, Tzeferakos G, Dardiotis E. Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease and Other Dementias. Healthcare (Basel) 2021; 9:healthcare9080949. [PMID: 34442086 PMCID: PMC8391181 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare9080949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Dementia is a debilitating impairment of cognitive functions that affects millions of people worldwide. There are several diseases belonging to the dementia spectrum, most prominently Alzheimer’s disease (AD), vascular dementia (VD), Lewy body dementia (LBD) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a safe, non-invasive form of brain stimulation that utilizes a magnetic coil to generate an electrical field and induce numerous changes in the brain. It is considered efficacious for the treatment of various neuropsychiatric disorders. In this paper, we review the available studies involving rTMS in the treatment of these dementia types. The majority of studies have involved AD and shown beneficial effects, either as a standalone, or as an add-on to standard-of-care pharmacological treatment and cognitive training. The dorsolateral prefrontal cortex seems to hold a central position in the applied protocols, but several parameters still need to be defined. In addition, rTMS has shown potential in mild cognitive impairment as well. Regarding the remaining dementias, research is still at preliminary phases, and large, randomized studies are currently lacking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Athina-Maria Aloizou
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly Biopolis, Mezourlo Hill, 41100 Larissa, Greece; (A.-M.A.); (G.P.); (K.A.); (V.S.); (M.S.); (E.P.)
| | - Georgia Pateraki
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly Biopolis, Mezourlo Hill, 41100 Larissa, Greece; (A.-M.A.); (G.P.); (K.A.); (V.S.); (M.S.); (E.P.)
| | - Konstantinos Anargyros
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly Biopolis, Mezourlo Hill, 41100 Larissa, Greece; (A.-M.A.); (G.P.); (K.A.); (V.S.); (M.S.); (E.P.)
| | - Vasileios Siokas
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly Biopolis, Mezourlo Hill, 41100 Larissa, Greece; (A.-M.A.); (G.P.); (K.A.); (V.S.); (M.S.); (E.P.)
| | - Christos Bakirtzis
- Multiple Sclerosis Center, B’Department of Neurology, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Markos Sgantzos
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly Biopolis, Mezourlo Hill, 41100 Larissa, Greece; (A.-M.A.); (G.P.); (K.A.); (V.S.); (M.S.); (E.P.)
| | - Lambros Messinis
- Neuropsychology Section, Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, University Hospital of Patras and University of Patras, Medical School, 26504 Patras, Greece;
| | - Grigorios Nasios
- Department of Speech and Language Therapy, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45500 Ioannina, Greece;
| | - Eleni Peristeri
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly Biopolis, Mezourlo Hill, 41100 Larissa, Greece; (A.-M.A.); (G.P.); (K.A.); (V.S.); (M.S.); (E.P.)
| | - Dimitrios P. Bogdanos
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University General Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Viopolis, 40500 Larissa, Greece;
| | | | - Georgios Tzeferakos
- Association for Regional Development and Mental Health (EPAPSY), 15124 Marousi, Greece;
| | - Efthimios Dardiotis
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly Biopolis, Mezourlo Hill, 41100 Larissa, Greece; (A.-M.A.); (G.P.); (K.A.); (V.S.); (M.S.); (E.P.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +30-241-350-1137 or +30-697-422-4279
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Liampas I, Papathanasiou S, Tsikritsis N, Roka V, Roustanis A, Ntontos T, Kyriakopoulos C, Raptopoulou M, Eythimiadi G, Giakimova-Polyzou V, Kalliora C, Tasios V, Papageorgiou A, Dardiotis E. Nutrient Status in Patients with Frequent Episodic Tension-Type Headache: A Case-Control Study. Rev Neurol (Paris) 2021; 177:1283-1293. [PMID: 34275652 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurol.2021.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the relationship between frequent episodic tension-type headache (FE-TTH) and 25-hydroxyvitamin-D (25(OH)D), folate, vitamin B12, and magnesium. DESIGN-METHODS A prospective case-control study involving adults with FETTH and age-sex matched healthy controls (HC) was performed. Individuals under the responsibility of the three provincial Health Centres of the prefecture of Trikala (Central Greece) were recruited during their regular check-up visits. The relationship between FETTH and serum levels of 25(OH)D, vitamin B12, folate, and magnesium was investigated (primary outcomes). Demographics, daily habits, somatometrics, psychometric and sleep quality measurements, laboratory indices, cardiovascular comorbidities and medications taken were also recorded and compared (secondary outcomes). Potential associations of the above-listed parameters with headache parameters (headache frequency, severity and analgesic consumption) were also examined (secondary outcomes). RESULTS Between September and December 2020, 30 patients with FETTH and 30 HC were successfully recruited. Demographics, comorbidities, regular medications, smoking habits, alcohol and coffee consumption, body mass index measurements, markers of systemic inflammation, folate and vitamin B12 levels were similar between the two groups (P>0.05). Lower serum 25(OH)D was both univariately (P<0.001) and multivariately [OR= 0.72, 95%CI=(0.55, 0.94) per 1ng/ml increase] associated with FETTH, while serum magnesium was found lower in FETTH only according to the univariate approach (P=0.036). Higher levels of depression (P=0.050) and anxiety (P=0.020), as well as poor quality of sleep (P=0.008), were univariately associated with FETTH. Only the effect of anxiety remained significant following the multivariate logistic regression [OR=7.90, 95%CI=(1.00, 62.47)]. Headache parameters were not associated with any one of the assessed variables. DISCUSSION Lower serum 25(OH)D was related to the presence of FETTH. This finding could imply a potential role for vitamin D in the pathophysiology of TTH.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Liampas
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece.
| | - S Papathanasiou
- Health Center of Kalampaka, Prefecture of Trikala, Trikala, Greece
| | - N Tsikritsis
- Health Center of Farkadona, Prefecture of Trikala, Trikala, Greece
| | - V Roka
- Health Center of Farkadona, Prefecture of Trikala, Trikala, Greece
| | - A Roustanis
- Health Center of Kalampaka, Prefecture of Trikala, Trikala, Greece
| | - T Ntontos
- Health Center of Farkadona, Prefecture of Trikala, Trikala, Greece
| | - C Kyriakopoulos
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - M Raptopoulou
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece; First Department of Internal Medicine, General Hospital of Trikala, Trikala, Greece
| | - G Eythimiadi
- Health Center of Farkadona, Prefecture of Trikala, Trikala, Greece
| | | | - C Kalliora
- Health Center of Pyli, Prefecture of Trikala, Trikala, Greece
| | - V Tasios
- Health Center of Kalampaka, Prefecture of Trikala, Trikala, Greece
| | - A Papageorgiou
- Health Center of Farkadona, Prefecture of Trikala, Trikala, Greece
| | - E Dardiotis
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
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Quality Evaluation of Randomized Controlled Trials of Rhodiola Species: A Systematic Review. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2021; 2021:9989546. [PMID: 34306163 PMCID: PMC8266448 DOI: 10.1155/2021/9989546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Revised: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Background Rhodiola is a worldwide used medicinal plant for its various medicinal functions, and the number of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of Rhodiola is increasing in recent years. This study aims to evaluate the reporting quality and risk of bias of the current RCT reports of different Rhodiola species. Methods Six databases including Embase, PubMed, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, ClinicalTrial.gov, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure were searched to identify RCTs that used Rhodiola as a single intervention and were published in English or Chinese from inception to December 2020. The Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) 2010 statement was used as the checklist for assessment, and a scoring system was applied to the evaluation of RCTs. Score 0 represents no reporting or inadequate reporting, and score 1 represents adequate reporting. The risk of bias of the included studies was also assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. Results A total of 39 RCTs were included in this study, including 23 RCTs of Rhodiola rosea (R. rosea), 8 RCTs of Rhodiola crenulata (R. crenulata), and 8 RCTs of Rhodiola wallichiana (R. wallichiana). None of the included studies met all the CONSORT statement criteria, and the reporting quality of RCTs of the three Rhodiola species was all generally poor. Based on the risk of bias assessment, the majority of included studies were judged to have an unclear risk of bias in most domains due to inadequate reporting. Conclusions There is inadequate reporting among the included RCTs of different Rhodiola species, and RCTs of Rhodiola with higher reporting quality and better methodological quality are needed.
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Nousia A, Martzoukou M, Liampas I, Siokas V, Bakirtzis C, Nasios G, Dardiotis E. The Effectiveness of Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation Alone or Combined with Cognitive Training on the Cognitive Performance of Patients With Traumatic Brain Injury: Α Systematic Review. Arch Clin Neuropsychol 2021; 37:497-512. [PMID: 34155517 DOI: 10.1093/arclin/acab047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The present study reviewed published evidence on the effectiveness of non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) on the cognitive performance of patients with Traumatic brain injury (TBI). METHOD A systematic search of the PubMed and Google Scholar databases was carried out. Randomized Controlled Studies published before March 2020 were included. Methodological evaluation was performed based on the Risk of Bias Cochrane tool. A total of 10 placebo-controlled studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were involved in the qualitative analysis, two assessing NIBS combined with cognitive training (CT) and eight evaluating NIBS alone. RESULTS All but one retrieved article were appraised as of high-risk of bias (one paper was assessed as of unclear-risk owing to considerable underreporting). With the potential exception of attention, our findings were not indicative of a superior efficacy of NIBS-CT to CT alone, regarding the improvement of any of the rest assessed cognitive deficits. Executive function, processing speed, attention, working, and visuospatial memory were only occasionally found to benefit from NIBS alone compared to sham therapy (only one study reported relevant benefits per neuropsychological outcome). Verbal memory and verbal fluency (phonemic-semantic) were consistently found not to benefit from NIBS. Depression measures were the only outcomes associated with a beneficial effect of NIBS in more than one article. CONCLUSION Our findings did not provide sufficient high-quality evidence to support the exclusive use of NIBS or combined NIBS-CT to improve any impaired cognitive function in TBI patients. Owing to the suboptimum methodological quality of published studies, additional research is of potential value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Nousia
- Department of Speech and Language Therapy, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Maria Martzoukou
- Department of Speech and Language Therapy, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Ioannis Liampas
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Larissa, Greece.,Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Vasileios Siokas
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Larissa, Greece.,Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Christos Bakirtzis
- B' Department of Neurology, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Grigorios Nasios
- Department of Speech and Language Therapy, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Efthimios Dardiotis
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Larissa, Greece.,Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
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11
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Liampas I, Siokas V, Brotis A, Mentis AFA, Aloizou AM, Dastamani M, Tsouris Z, Lima M, Dardiotis E. Endogenous melatonin levels and therapeutic use of exogenous melatonin in tension type headache: A systematic review. Rev Neurol (Paris) 2021; 177:871-880. [PMID: 34167809 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurol.2021.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND-PURPOSE A bidirectional relationship appears to connect tension-type headache (TTH) and circadian dysregulation. The present systematic review examined the published evidence for melatonin (MT) supplementation in the prophylaxis of TTH. Initially, we reviewed case-control studies investigating nocturnal MT or 6-sulphatoxymelatonin (aMT6s, a urine-discarded metabolite) in TTH individuals and healthy controls (HC). Secondly, we reviewed studies appraising the use of MT in the prevention of TTH. METHODS The search strategy involved MEDLINE EMBASE, CENTRAL, PsycINFO, trial registries, Google Scholar and OpenGrey. Case-control studies were appraised according to the Newcastle-Ottawa-Scale, whereas randomised controlled trials were assessed based on the risk-of-bias Cochrane tool. Infrequent, as well as frequent, episodic, and chronic TTH patients were evaluated separately in children and adults. RESULTS Our search strategy yielded two case-control studies. One (high-quality) did not reveal any difference in morning salivary MT concentration between children with frequent episodic TTH and HC. The second (moderate-quality) was indicative of a disturbed nocturnal secretion pattern in adults with chronic TTH. For the second part, five uncontrolled studies were retrieved. In total, 94 adults with chronic TTH were assessed and results were suggestive of a beneficial effect of MT on headache frequency, intensity, induced disability, and induced analgesic consumption. However, the uncontrolled-unblinded designs may have induced an important placebo effect. Non-adult populations and frequent TTH were substantially understudied. CONCLUSIONS There are not enough studies to designate the role of MT in the prevention of TTH. Given the disease's background, additional relevant research is warranted for chronic TTH.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Liampas
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Biopolis, Mezourlo Hill, 41100 Larissa, Greece.
| | - V Siokas
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Biopolis, Mezourlo Hill, 41100 Larissa, Greece
| | - A Brotis
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - A-F A Mentis
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Biopolis, Mezourlo Hill, 41100 Larissa, Greece; Public Health Laboratories, Hellenic Pasteur Institute, Athens, Greece
| | - A-M Aloizou
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Biopolis, Mezourlo Hill, 41100 Larissa, Greece
| | - M Dastamani
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Biopolis, Mezourlo Hill, 41100 Larissa, Greece
| | - Z Tsouris
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Biopolis, Mezourlo Hill, 41100 Larissa, Greece
| | - M Lima
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Biopolis, Mezourlo Hill, 41100 Larissa, Greece
| | - E Dardiotis
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Biopolis, Mezourlo Hill, 41100 Larissa, Greece
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Liampas I, Raptopoulou M, Mpourlios S, Siokas V, Tsouris Z, Aloizou AM, Dastamani M, Brotis A, Bogdanos D, Xiromerisiou G, Dardiotis E. Factors associated with recurrent transient global amnesia: systematic review and pathophysiological insights. Rev Neurosci 2021; 32:751-765. [PMID: 33675214 DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2021-0009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The examination of the risk factors that affect the recurrence of transient global amnesia (TGA) may shed light on the pathophysiological substrate of the disease. A systematic review was performed to identify the factors associated with the recurrence of TGA. MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL and PsycINFO were meticulously searched. Observational controlled studies involving patients with single (s-TGA) and recurrent TGA (r-TGA) according to Hodges and Warlow's criteria were retrieved. Differences in the demographic characteristics, personal and family medical history, previous exposure to precipitating events and laboratory findings were examined. Retrieved evidence was assessed in the context of the individual article validity, based on the numerical power and methodological quality of each study. Nine cohort studies with retrospective, prospective or mixed design were retrieved. In total, 1989 patients with TGA were included, 269 of whom suffered from r-TGA (13.5%). R-TGA presented an earlier age of onset. Evidence was suggestive of a relationship between recurrence and a family or personal history of migraine, as well as a personal history of depression. There was weaker evidence that associated recurrence with a positive family history of dementia, a personal history of head injury and hippocampal lesions in diffusion-weighted MRI. On the other hand, no connection was found between recurrence and electroencephalographic abnormalities, impaired jugular venous drainage, cardiovascular risk factors, atrial fibrillation, previous cerebrovascular events, exposure to precipitating events, a positive family history of TGA and hypothyroidism. Important pathophysiological insights that arised from these findings were discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Liampas
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Mezourlo Hill, 41100Larissa, Greece
| | - Maria Raptopoulou
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Mezourlo Hill, 41100Larissa, Greece.,First Department of Internal Medicine, General Hospital of Trikala, Karditsis 56, 42100Trikala, Greece
| | - Stefanos Mpourlios
- School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Mezourlo Hill, 41100Larissa, Greece
| | - Vasileios Siokas
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Mezourlo Hill, 41100Larissa, Greece
| | - Zisis Tsouris
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Mezourlo Hill, 41100Larissa, Greece
| | - Athina-Maria Aloizou
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Mezourlo Hill, 41100Larissa, Greece
| | - Metaxia Dastamani
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Mezourlo Hill, 41100Larissa, Greece
| | - Alexandros Brotis
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Mezourlo Hill, 41100Larissa, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Bogdanos
- Department of Rheumatology and clinical Immunology, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Mezourlo Hill, 41100Larissa, Greece
| | - Georgia Xiromerisiou
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Mezourlo Hill, 41100Larissa, Greece
| | - Efthimios Dardiotis
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Mezourlo Hill, 41100Larissa, Greece
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Liampas I, Raptopoulou M, Siokas V, Tsouris Z, Brotis A, Aloizou AM, Dastamani M, Dardiotis E. The long-term prognosis of Transient Global Amnesia: a systematic review. Rev Neurosci 2021; 32:531-543. [PMID: 33550779 DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2020-0110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 10/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Transient Global Amnesia (TGA) constitutes an enigmatic amnestic condition. In view of the admittedly limited knowledge regarding the nature of TGA, we decided to systematically review existing evidence for the generally regarded benign course of the disease. MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL and PsycINFO were searched for relevant articles. Observational (case-control, cross-sectional and cohort) controlled studies were retrieved. TGA diagnosis was made according to the diagnostic criteria of Caplan, validated by Hodges and Warlow. The TGA group was compared with either healthy controls (HC) or/and individuals with transient ischaemic attacks (TIA). The long-term risks of dementia, epilepsy, psychological-emotional disturbances, as well as long-term vascular and (vascular or nonvascular) mortality risks, were evaluated. Quality assessment was based on the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Literature search provided 12 eligible articles. Retrospective, prospective or mixed cohort designs were implemented in every study. Five articles registered a high quality, five registered a moderate quality, while two articles were assessed as part of the grey literature (conference abstract, abstract in English-article in Spanish). Overall, retrieved evidence was suggestive of similar vascular and mortality risks in TGA patients and HC, while TIA individuals exhibited elevated risks. Moreover, psychological disturbances were comparable between TGA and healthy individuals. On the other hand, studies for dementia and epilepsy obtained contradictory results, indicating both a similar and an increased risk in the TGA group compared to the HC group. Therefore, additional high-quality studies are warranted for the acquisition of more determining conclusions regarding the long-term risk of dementia and epilepsy in TGA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Liampas
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Mezourlo Hill, 41100 Larissa, Greece
| | - Maria Raptopoulou
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Mezourlo Hill, 41100 Larissa, Greece.,First Department of Internal Medicine, General Hospital of Trikala, Karditsis 56, 42100 Trikala, Greece
| | - Vasileios Siokas
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Mezourlo Hill, 41100 Larissa, Greece
| | - Zisis Tsouris
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Mezourlo Hill, 41100 Larissa, Greece
| | - Alexandros Brotis
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Mezourlo Hill, 41100 Larissa, Greece
| | - Athina-Maria Aloizou
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Mezourlo Hill, 41100 Larissa, Greece
| | - Metaxia Dastamani
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Mezourlo Hill, 41100 Larissa, Greece
| | - Efthimios Dardiotis
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Mezourlo Hill, 41100 Larissa, Greece
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Migraine in transient global amnesia: a meta-analysis of observational studies. J Neurol 2021; 269:184-196. [PMID: 33388926 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-020-10363-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND PURPOSE: Although many studies have investigated the relationship between transient global amnesia (TGA) and migraine, to date, no meta-analysis has confirmed the existence and size of their association. METHODOLOGY Literature search involved MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL and PsycINFO. Observational controlled studies including TGA patients (Caplan, Hodges and Warlow) were retrieved. Quality evaluation was based on the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. The prevalence of migraine was compared in TGA patients vs. healthy controls (HC), as well as in TGA against TIA individuals. Data from case-control, cross-sectional and cohort studies were pooled separately. RESULTS Literature search yielded 1178 articles, 12 of which were included in the present meta-analysis. Results from case-control (ten), cohort (one) and cross-sectional (one) studies were compatible with an association between TGA and migraine. The nationwide inpatient cross-sectional study was of lesser value due to its inpatient orientation. The high-quality, population-based, retrospective cohort (158,301 participants per group) determined a higher relative-risk (RR) of TGA for migraine vs. non-migraine individuals [RR = 2.48, 95%confidence-interval (95% CI) = (1.32, 4.87)]. Sensitivity testing based on stricter diagnostic criteria strengthened the estimated association [RR = 3.84, 95% CI = (1.57, 9.38)]. Additionally, pooled data from eight case-control studies (700 TGA, 746 HC) yielded similar results [Odds-Ratio, OR = 2.51, 95% CI = (1.85, 3.41)], with the association mainly driven by the three high-quality studies, rather than the five articles of moderate quality. Finally, pooled findings from four case-control studies of moderate-quality revealed a higher prevalence of migraine among TGA compared to TIA patients [OR = 1.82, 95% CI = (1.22, 2.73)]. CONCLUSIONS A significant association between TGA and migraine was established. The underlying connecting mechanism remains undetermined, yet.
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