MicroRNAs as potential biomarkers of response to modified Atkins diet in treatment of adults with drug-resistant epilepsy: A proof-of-concept study.

Background: Accurate predictors of response to modified Atkins diet (MAD) are needed. MicroRNAs are potential biomarkers in epilepsy. This study aimed to explore the value of circulating miR-146a, miR-155, miR-22, miR-21 and miR-134 levels in predicting response to MAD.

Reduction in red blood cell transfusion associated with engagement of the ordering physician.

Background: Data on red blood cell (RBC) transfusion in the United States show variation in practice and overprescribing or overdosing is considered to be prevalent. Education or restrictive interventions could modify practice.

Study Design And Methods: RBC transfusion and mortality rates were recorded in a single institution over a 15-year period.

Undernutrition and associated factors among hospitalized patients.

Background & Aims: The identification of modifiable risk factors associated with disease-related undernutrition at hospital admission will contribute to the development of integrated intervention and control strategies for a timely primary prevention. This study aim was to quantify the association between functional autonomy and undernutrition.

Methods: A multicentric cross-sectional study was developed in six public hospitals in Portugal.

The economic impact of disease-related malnutrition at hospital admission.

Background & Aims: The reported frequency of disease-related malnutrition (DRM) for patients admitted to hospitals has been shown to be high, but an accurate estimate of the magnitude of its economic costs is lacking. The objective of this study was to determine the impact of DRM on hospitalization costs.

Methods: A probabilistic sample of 469 (50%) patients from two hospitals was recruited on a cross-sectional study.