Dichotomous Data Research Articles

Impact of different surgical and non-surgical interventions on health-related quality of life after thoracolumbar burst fractures without neurological deficit: protocol for a comprehensive systematic review with network meta-analysis

IntroductionThere is no international consensus on how to treat thoracolumbar burst fractures (TLBFs) without neurological deficits. The planned systematic review with network meta-analyses (NMA) aims to compare the effects on...

Omentopexy/Gastropexy (OP/GP) Following Sleeve Gastrectomy Might be an Effective 2-in-1 Method (Reinforcement and Fixation): A Meta-Analysis of 14 Studies and a Call for Randomized Controlled Trials.

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy can lead to dangerous complications as leaks and hemorrhage. In addition, it can lead to gastric twist/torsion, prolonged postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), and de novo gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). We aimed to study the efficacy of omentopexy/gastropexy (OP/GP) in the prevention of these postoperative complications. PubMed and Google Scholar were queried in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Data was analyzed using the Review Manager (RevMen) 5.4.1 software. Mantel-Haenszel statistical method and random effects analysis model were used in all meta-analyses. The odds ratio was used for dichotomous data. Subgroup analysis was done according to bougie size. Subgroup analysis according to the distance between the starting point of gastric transection and pylorus was not possible (limitation). Odds ratio and control event rate across studies were used to calculate the number needed to treat (NNT) with OP/GP for an additional beneficial outcome (prevention of adverse outcome) to occur. The initial search identified 442 records; 371 were found irrelevant after screening and were excluded. The remaining 71 reports were retrieved and assessed for eligibility. An additional 57 reports were excluded following an in-depth assessment. The remaining 14 studies were included in this meta-analysis; 8 were nonrandomized studies (NRSs) while 6 were randomized controlled trials. Most studies originated from a single country (limitation). A statistically significant decrease in favor of OP/GP was observed for all outcomes (bleeding, leaks, gastric twist/torsion, prolonged PONV 1 month postoperatively, and postoperative de novo GERD). Data was consistent across studies (low I2 ), and subgroup analysis according to bougie size revealed no subgroup differences. However, this study had 3 limitations that does not allow for strong conclusions. Although the current literature lacks strong scientific evidence, this study suggests that omentopexy/gastropexy (OP/GP) may offer protection against bleeding and leaks as a staple line reinforcement method, as well as against gastric twist/torsion, prolonged postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), and de novo gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) as a staple line fixation method. Therefore, it is worthwhile to proceed with large-scale, multicenter, randomized controlled trials to reevaluate our findings. Furthermore, conducting a comparison between OP/GP and other staple line reinforcement techniques would be beneficial.

Analysis of Two Populations Dichotomous Data in Latent Variable Models Using Bayesian Approach

Analysis of Two Populations Dichotomous Data in Latent Variable Models Using Bayesian Approach

Comparing the safety and effectiveness of various umbilical cord milking techniques and delayed cord clamping in full-term and preterm infants: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

We compare the hematocrit, hemoglobin, need for transfusion, recurrent phototherapy, serum bilirubin level, and serum ferritin at different time frames for the umbilical cord milking (UCM) and delayed cord clamping (DCC) in both full-term and preterm infants. A comprehensive search through various databases aimed to compare UCM and DCC studies until May 2nd, 2023. Cochrane and NIH tools assessed RCTs and cohorts, respectively. Meta-analysis employed Review Manager 5.4 software, calculating MD and RR with 95% CIs for continuous and dichotomous data. We included 20 studies with a total of 5189 infants. Regarding preterm infants, hematocrit level showed no significant difference between intact Umbilical Cord Milking (iUCM) compared to DCC (MD = -0.24, 95% CI [-1.11, 0.64]). Moreover, Neonatal death incidence was significantly higher with the UCM technique in comparison to DCC (RR = 1.28, 95% CI [1.01 to 1.62]). Regarding term and late preterm infants, Hematocrit level showed no significant difference between the iUCM or cUCM techniques compared to DCC (MD = 0.21, 95% CI [-1.28 to 1.69]), (MD = 0.96, 95% CI [-1.02 to 2.95]), respectively. UCM led to a higher risk of neonatal death in preterm infants compared to DCC. However, the incidence of polycythemia was lower in the UCM group. Additionally, UCM was associated with higher rates of severe IVH events. Based on these findings, DCC may be preferred due to its lower incidence of severe IVH and neonatal death.

The efficacy and safety of new potassium binders on renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitor optimization in heart failure patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Guideline-directed medical therapy (GDMT) has improved outcomes in patients with heart failure, including the use of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitors, which can hinder the excretion of potassium, resulting in hyperkalaemia. New potassium binders (NPBs) can prevent this adverse effect; however, the efficacy and safety of NPB for this indication have not been fully established. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis synthesizing randomized controlled trials (RCTs), which were retrieved by systematically searching PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane through 26 April 2023. The risk of bias assessment was conducted, following Cochrane's updated Risk of Bias 2 assessment tool. We used the fixed-effects model to pool dichotomous data using risk ratio (RR) and continuous data using mean difference (MD), with a 95% confidence interval (CI) (PROSPERO ID: CRD42023426113). We included six RCTs with a total of 1432 patients. NPB was significantly associated with successful mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist (MRA) optimization [RR: 1.13 with 95% CI (1.02-1.25), P=0.02], decreased patients with MRA at less than the target dose [RR: 0.72 with 95% CI (0.57-0.90), P=0.004], and decreased hyperkalaemic episodes [RR: 0.42 with 95% CI (0.24-0.72), P=0.002]. However, there was no difference between NPB and placebo regarding angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEi)/angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB)/angiotensin receptor/neprilysin inhibitor (ANRi) optimization [RR: 1.02 with 95% CI (0.89-1.17), P=0.76] and serum potassium change [MD: -0.31 with 95% CI (-0.61 to 0.00), P=0.05], with an acceptable safety profile except for the increased incidence of hypokalaemia with NPB [RR: 1.57 with 95% CI (1.12-2.21), P=0.009]. NPB has been shown to improve GDMT outcomes by enhancing MRA optimization and reducing hyperkalaemic episodes. However, there are limited data on the effects of NPB on ACEi/ARB/ANRi optimization. Future RCTs should investigate ACEi/ARB/ANRi optimization and conduct head-to-head comparisons of NPB (patiromer and sodium zirconium cyclosilicate).

Escitalopram versus other antidepressive agents for major depressive disorder: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundEscitalopram is selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and one of the most commonly prescribed newer antidepressants (ADs) worldwide. We aimed to explore the efficacy, acceptability and tolerability of escitalopram in comparison with other ADs in the acute-phase treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD).MethodsMedline/PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, CINAHL, and Clinical Trials.gov were searched from inception to July 10, 2023. Trial databases of drug-approving agencies were hand-searched for published, unpublished and ongoing controlled trials. All randomized controlled trials comparing escitalopram against any other antidepressant for patients with MDD. Responders and remitters to treatment were calculated on an intention-to-treat basis. For dichotomous data, risk ratios (RRs) were calculated with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Continuous data were analyzed using standardized mean differences (with 95% CI) using the random effects model.ResultsA total of 30 studies were included in this meta‑analysis, among which sixteen trials compared escitalopram with another SSRI and 14 compared escitalopram with a newer AD. Escitalopram was shown to be significantly more effective than citalopram in achieving acute response (RR 0.67, 95% CI 0.50—0.87). Escitalopram was also more effective than citalopram in terms of remission (RR 0.53, 95% CI 0.30—0.93).ConclusionsEscitalopram was superior to other ADs for the acute phase treatment of MDD in terms of efficacy, acceptability and tolerability. However, no significant difference was found between escitalopram and other ADs in early response or follow-up response to treatment of MDD.

Face-down positioning or posturing after macular hole surgery.

Face-down positioning or posturing after macular hole surgery.

Anthracyclines and the risk of arrhythmias: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

There have been controversial findings from recent studies regarding anthracyclines use and the subsequent risk of arrhythmias. This study aimed to evaluate the existing evidence of the risk of arrhythmias in patients treated with anthracyclines. PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were searched up to April 2022 using keywords such as "anthracycline" and "arrhythmia." Dichotomous data were presented as relative risk (RR) and confidence interval (CI), while continuous data were presented as mean difference (MD) and CI. Revman software version 5.4 was used for the analysis. Thirteen studies were included with a total of 26891 subjects. Pooled analysis showed that anthracyclines therapy was significantly associated with a higher risk of arrhythmia (RR: 1.58; 95% CI: 1.41-1.76; P < .00001), ST segment and T wave abnormalities (RR: 1.73, 95% CI: 1.18-2.55, P = .005), conduction abnormalities and AV block (RR = 1.86, 95% CI = 1.06-3.25, P = .03), and tachycardia (RR: 1.736, 95% CI: 1.11-2.69, P = .02). Further analyses of the associations between anthracyclines and atrial flutter (RR = 1.30, 95% CI = 0.29-5.89, P = .74), atrial ectopic beats (RR: 1.27, 95% CI: 0.78-2.05, P = .34), and ventricular ectopic beats (RR: 0.93, 95% CI: 0.53-1.65, P = .81) showed no statistically significant results. Higher doses of anthracycline were associated with a higher risk of arrhythmias (RR: 1.49; 95% CI: 1.08-2.05; P = .02) compared to the lower doses (RR: 1.36; 95% CI: 1.00-1.85; P = .05). Newer generations of Anthracycline maintained the arrhythmogenic properties of previous generations, such as Doxorubicin. Anthracyclines therapy was significantly associated with an increased risk of arrhythmias. Accordingly, Patients treated with anthracyclines should be screened for ECG abnormalities and these drugs should be avoided in patients susceptible to arrhythmia. The potential benefit of the administration of prophylactic anti-fibrotic and anti-arrhythmic drugs should also be explored.

The Efficacy and Safety of Myo-inositol Supplementation for the Prevention of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus in Overweight and Obese Pregnant Women: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Myo-inositol has emerged as one of the preventive therapies for the development of gestational diabetes mellitus in at-risk populations. This systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to determine the efficacy and safety of myo-inositol in decreasing the incidence of gestational diabetes in overweight and obese pregnant women. This meta-analysis was conducted using the standard Cochrane methodology and reported in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) 2020 guidelines. Inclusion criteria were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that enrolled overweight and obese pregnant women and used myo-inositol supplementation. The primary outcome was the incidence of gestational diabetes mellitus at 24-28 weeks. Secondary outcomes included cesarean section rate, the incidence of pregnancy-induced hypertension, macrosomia and preterm delivery. Risk ratios (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used for dichotomous data. Six RCTs were included. Compared to standard micronutrient supplementation, standard dose of myo-inositol (4 g) may reduce the incidence of GDM (RR 0.54; CI [0.30, 0.96]; n = 887 women), but the certainty of evidence is low to very low. With low-dose myo-inositol however, evidence is uncertain about its benefit on the incidence of gestational diabetes mellitus in overweight and obese women with RR 0.71; CI [0.14, 3.50]. No adverse effects were noted. For the secondary outcomes, standard dose myo-inositol appears to reduce the incidence of pregnancy-induced hypertension and preterm delivery, but the certainty of evidence is low to very low. Current evidence is uncertain on the potential benefit of myo-inositol supplementation in overweight and obese pregnant women. While studies show that 4 g myo-inositol per day may decrease the incidence of GDM, pregnancy-induced hypertension and pre-term birth with no associated risk of serious adverse events, the certainty of evidence is low to very low. Future high-quality trials may provide more compelling evidence to support practice recommendations.

Analgesic Efficacy of Pre-operative Pregabalin in Dacryocystorhinostomy Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trials.

Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) is an effective surgical procedure for addressing lacrimal drainage problems. However, it can be a painful operation that involves incisions both inside and outside the eye, often leading to a high incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting. Preemptive analgesics can be employed to alleviate this unrelieved pain. Nonetheless, many of the drugs used can induce a wide range of adverse effects. Therefore, the aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to assess the current evidence regarding the efficacy of pregabalin in managing postoperative pain following DCR surgery. We conducted a thorough search of five electronic databases, namely, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane, and Google Scholar, to identify relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published before September 2023. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool for RCTs. The outcomes we evaluated included postoperative pain, surgery duration, time to first analgesia, total pethidine consumption, and postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV). Continues data reported as mean difference (MD), and dichotomous data reported as risk ratio (RR), with 95% confidence interval (CI). A pooled meta-analysis of three RCTs, including 240 patients in both the pregabalin and placebo groups, was conducted. The results revealed that the pooled MD in pain scores was significantly lower in patients treated with pregabalin compared to those receiving a placebo ((MD = -1.35 (95% CI: -1.83 to -0.87, p < 0.00001)). Additionally, the pooled MD of pethidine consumption was significantly lower in patients treated with pregabalin compared to those receiving a placebo (MD = -54.13 (95% CI: -103.77 to -4.50, p = 0.03)). However, there was no statistical significance between both groups in terms of time to first analgesia and duration of surgery (p > 0.05). On the other hand, the pooled RR of PONV was significantly lower in patients treated with pregabalin compared to those receiving a placebo (RR = 0.37 (95% CI: 0.24-0.57, p < 0.001)). This meta-analysis demonstrates that pregabalin is an effective and well-tolerated intervention for reducing postoperative pain and PONV following DCR surgery, without significantly affecting surgery duration or time to first analgesia. These findings support the use of pregabalin in improving patient comfort and outcomes in this surgical context.

Abstract 13944: The Efficacy and Safety of New Potassium Binders on RASSi Optimization in Hyperkalemic Patients With Heart Failure: A Systematic-Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Introduction: Guideline-directed medical therapy (GDMT) has improved outcomes in patients with heart failure (HF), including the use of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitors (RAASi); angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEis), angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), angiotensin receptor/neprilysin inhibitor (ANRi), and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs). RAASi can hinder the excretion of potassium, resulting in hyperkalemia. New potassium binders (NPB) (patiromer and sodium zirconium cyclosilicate) can prevent this adverse effect; however, the efficacy and safety of NPB for this indication have not been fully established. Methods: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis synthesizing randomized controlled trials (RCTs), which were retrieved by systematically searching: PubMed, Web of Science, SCOPUS, and Cochrane through April 26th, 2023. We used the fixed-effect model to pool dichotomous data using risk ratio (RR) and continuous data using mean difference (MD), with a 95% confidence interval (CI). Results: We included five RCTs with a total of 1,399 patients. BPB was significantly associated with successful MRA optimization (RR: 1.13 with 95% CI [1.02, 1.25], P=0.02), decreased patients with MRA at less than target dose (RR: 0.72 with 95% CI [0.57, 0.90], P=0.004), and decreased hyperkalemic episodes (RR: 0.50 with 95% CI [0.32, 0.79], P=0.003). However, there was no difference between NPB and placebo regarding ACEi/ARB/ANRi optimization (RR: 1.02 with 95% CI [0.89, 1.17], P=0.76) and serum potassium change (MD: -0.31 with 95% CI [-0.61, 0.00], P=0.05). Conclusion: NPB can successfully improve GDMT outcomes by enhancing MRA optimization and decreasing hyperkalemic episodes. However, data regarding the NPB effect on ACEi/ARB/ANRi optimization remain scarce. Therefore, future RCTs should investigate it and conduct a head-to-head comparison of NPB.

Abstract 18294: The Effect of Intensive Blood Pressure Lowering on Left Ventricular Hypertrophy in Patients With Hypertension: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Introduction: The effect of intensive blood pressure (BP) lowering on cardiac remodeling remains uncertain, with emerging evidence suggesting that it can prevent the development of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) in patients with hypertension (HTN). We aim to investigate the effect of intensive BP lowering on LVH and cardiovascular disease (CVD) incidence in HTN patients. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis synthesizing randomized controlled trials (RCTs), which were retrieved by systematically searching: PubMed, Web of Science, SCOPUS, and Cochrane through June 8 th , 2023. We used the random-effect model to pool dichotomous data using risk ratio (RR) and hazard ratio (HR), with a 95% confidence interval (CI). Trial sequential analysis (TSA) was performed to weigh type I and II errors, estimating if the effect is large enough to be unaffected by further studies. Results: We included four RCTs with a total of 20,747 patients. Two RCTs investigated an intensive target of &lt; 120 mmHg, and another two investigated &lt;130 mmHg. Intensive BP lowering was associated with a decreased risk of LVH incidence (RR: 0.66, with 95% CI [0.56 - 0.77]). Our TSA revealed that the cumulative Z-curve consistently crossed the TSA boundary, indicating a statistically significant effect, signifying that the available evidence has reached a predefined threshold for statistical significance, providing robust evidence. Also, intensive BP lowering was associated with a decreased risk of CVD (HR: 0.71, with 95% CI [0.60 - 0.85]). Conclusion: Intensive BP lowering protects against LVH in HTN patients. TSA suggests that additional RCTs may not be necessary to establish the efficacy of intensive BP lowering on LVH. Also, intensive BP lowering was associated with decreased CVD incidence; however, LVH did not explain this effect in the included RCTs. Therefore, further research is warranted to explore possible mechanisms of decreasing CVD with intensive BP lowering in HTN patients.

Abstract 13474: The Efficacy of Istaroxime for Patients With Acute Heart Failure: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Introduction: Acute heart failure (AHF) exacerbation is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality associated with HF. The current AHF management strategies are inotropic and vasoactive agents. Despite the transient improvement in hemodynamic status with these agents, they have not shown survival benefits. Istaroxime is a novel IV inotropic agent with a dual mechanism, increasing both cardiomyocyte contractility as well as relaxation. Methods: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis synthesizing randomized controlled trials (RCTs), which were retrieved by systematically searching: PubMed, Web of Science, SCOPUS, and Cochrane through April 24th, 2023. We used the fixed-effect or random-effects model, according to heterogeneity, to pool dichotomous data using risk ratio (RR) and continuous data using mean difference (MD), with a 95% confidence interval (CI). Results: We included three RCTs with a total of 300 patients. Istaroxime was significantly associated with increased LV ejection fraction (MD: 1.06, CI [0.29, 1.82], P = 0.007), stroke volume index (MD: 3.04, CI [2.41, 3.67], P = 0.00001), and cardiac index (L/min/m2) (MD: 0.18, CI [0.11, 0.25], P = 0.00001). Also, istaroxime was significantly associated with decreased E/A ratio (MD: -0.39, CI [-0.58, -0.19], P = 0.0001) and pulmonary artery systolic pressure (MD: -2.30, CI [-3.20, -1.40], P = 0.00001). Istaroxime was significantly associated with increased systolic blood pressure (MD: 5.32, CI [2.28, 8.37], P = 0.0006) and decreased heart rate (MD: -3.05, CI [-5.27, -0.82], P = 0.007). Conclusions: Istaroxime improved blood pressure and some echocardiographic parameters, forming a promising strategy for AHF management. However, the current is limited to a small number of RCTs, warranting further large-scale phase III trials before clinical endorsement.

The Prognostic Role of Platelet-to-Lymphocyte Ratio in Acute Coronary Syndromes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

This study aimed to investigate the potential prognostic role of the platelet-to-lymphocyte (PLR) ratio in patients presenting with suspected acute coronary syndromes (ACS). A systematic search of PubMed Central, Scopus, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library from conception through 20 August 2023 was conducted. We used odds ratios (OR) as the effect measure with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for dichotomous data and mean differences (MD) with a 95% CI for continuous data. If I2 was less than 50% or the p value of the Q tests was less than 0.05, a random synthesis analysis was conducted. Otherwise, a fixed pooled meta-analysis was performed. Nineteen studies fulfilled the eligibility criteria and were included in the meta-analysis. PLR was higher in MACE-positive (164.0 ± 68.6) than MACE-negative patients (115.3 ± 36.9; MD = 40.14; 95% CI: 22.76 to 57.52; p < 0.001). Pooled analysis showed that PLR was higher in AMI patients who died (183.3 ± 30.3), compared to survivors (126.2 ± 16.8; MD = 39.07; 95% CI: 13.30 to 64.84; p = 0.003). It was also higher in the ACS vs. control group (168.2 ± 81.1 vs. 131.9 ± 37.7; MD = 39.01; 95% CI: 2.81 to 75.21; p = 0.03), STEMI vs. NSTEMI cohort (165.5 ± 92.7 vs. 159.5 ± 87.8; MD = 5.98; 95% CI: -15.09 to 27.04; p = 0.58), and MI vs. UAP populations (162.4 ± 90.0 vs. 128.2 ± 64.9; MD = 18.28; 95% CI: -8.16 to 44.71; p = 0.18). Overall, our findings confirmed the potential prognostic role of the plate-let-to-lymphocyte (PLR) ratio in patients presenting with suspected acute coronary syndromes (ACS). Its use as a risk stratification tool should be examined prospectively to define its capability for evaluation in cardiovascular patients.

Parameters and Models of Item Response Theory (IRT): A Review of Literature

Abstract Introduction: Item response theory (IRT) has received much attention in validation of assessment instrument because it allows the estimation of students’ ability from any set of the items. Item response theory allows the difficulty and discrimination levels of each item on the test to be estimated. In the framework of IRT, item characteristics are independent of the sample and latent traits of the person are independent of the test on the account that the selected models perfectly fit the data. Therefore, scores that describe examinee performance are independent on test difficulty. The scores of the examinee may be lower on a difficult test and higher on easier tests, but the ability level of the examinee remains the same over any test at the time of testing. The IRT model allows the estimation of item parameters. The line of difference between the models and parameters of IRT is not clear to many students in assessment. Purpose:This paper reviews the parameters that are estimated using IRT and the models available in IRT. Also, the paper highlights the difference between the parameters and models and the various models under each set of data. Methods:Various literatures on IRT relating to the parameters and models of IRT are reviewed. Conclusions:There are four parameters estimated with IRT but the models are not four. Again, the models of IRT depends on the type of data. Dichotomous data has four models for the four parameters. However, polytomous data has two parameters: item difficulty and item discrimination for the models.

Abstract 235: General Anesthesia vs. Non‐General Anesthesia in Endovascular Treatment for Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke

Introduction Current evidence supports endovascular therapy (EVT) for eligible patients with acute ischemic stroke in the anterior and posterior circulation. However, there is no consensus regarding the choice of anesthetic approach during EVT and early reported studies were observational with potential biases and confounding. Therefore, we sought to build concrete evidence from randomized clinical trials (RCTs) comparing the general anesthesia (GA) vs. non‐GA via a systematic review and meta‐analysis approach. Methods Data from inception to June 2023 were reviewed and only RCTs comparing the GA vs. non‐GA were included. We then pooled data for the main procedural, safety, and efficacy outcomes with odds ratios (ORs) and 95% CI for dichotomous data and mean difference (MD) with 95% CI for continuous data under random effect model. Results Eight RCTs were included in the final analysis (n=1203) with seven of them reporting data for the anterior circulation (n=1116) and one for the posterior circulation (n=87). Regarding efficacy outcomes, pooled results revealed non‐statistically significant difference between GA and non‐GA for functional independence at 90 days defined as modified Rankin Score scale of 0‐2 (OR = 1.17, 95% CI: 0.88–1.56, P= 0.28; I2 = 26%, Figure A) and the results of the anterior circulation subgroup showed non‐statistically significant difference (OR = 1.22, 95% CI: 0.90–1.67, P= 0.2; I2 = 31%) and the difference was not also evident for posterior circulation (48.8% vs 54.5%; RR, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.58‐1.38; adjusted OR, 0.91; 95% CI, 0.37‐2.22). Successful recanalization, defined as Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction score of 2b‐3, showed a statistically significant results favoring GA over non‐GA (OR = 1.94, 95% CI: 1.42–2.63, P=0.0001; I2 = 0%, Figure B) and this continued to show statistically significant in both anterior and posterior circulation subgroups. Onset to reperfusion time was not statistically significant between GA and non‐GA (MD, ‐2.59; 95% CI: ‐22.38 to 17.21, P= 0.8; I2=24%, Figure C). Regarding safety outcomes, there were no statistically significant differences in intracranial hemorrhage (OR = 0.95, 95% CI: 0.67–1.35, p = 0.79; I2 =0%, Figure D) or mortality (OR = 0.95, 95% CI: 0.71–1.29, p = 0.76; I2 =0%, Figure E). However, GA showed a higher risk of hypotension compared to non‐GA (OR = 6.05, 95% CI: 3.25–11.25, P=0.00001; I2 =69%, Figure F). Sensitivity analysis by leave one out removing Ren et al (5) showed homogenous results (OR = 8.43, 95% CI: 5.85–12.16, P=0.00001; I2 =0%) Conclusion In this study‐level meta‐analysis, GA resulted in higher rates of successful reperfusion as compared to non‐GA despite being associated with higher rates of hypotension. Since many of the included studies were small and single center, more studies are warranted to support these findings.

Tip-in Versus Conventional Endoscopic Mucosal Resection for Colorectal Neoplasia: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Early-stage gastrointestinal neoplasms are frequently treated with conventional endoscopic mucosal resection (C-EMR). However, C-EMR frequently leads to incomplete resection of large colorectal lesions. Tip-in endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR), which was recently introduced for en bloc resection of colorectal neoplasms, minimizes slippage during the procedure. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of published studies that compared Tip-in EMR with conventional EMR. We searched several electronic databases and included studies that reported on the primary outcomes of en bloc resection rate and complete resection rate, as well as secondary outcomes such as procedure time and procedure-related complications (including perforation and delayed bleeding rate). We used a random effects model to calculate odds ratios (ORs) with 95% CIs for dichotomous data and weighted mean differences with 95% CIs for continuous data. We also conducted several sensitivity analyses to assess the robustness of our findings. A total of 11 studies involving 1244 lesions (684 in the Tip-in EMR group and 560 in C-EMR group) were included in the meta-analysis. Our meta-analysis showed that compared with conventional EMR, Tip-in EMR significantly increased the en bloc resection rate in patients with colorectal neoplasia (OR=3.61; 95% CI, 2.09-6.23; P <0.00001; I2 =0%) and had a higher complete resection rate (OR=2.49; 95% CI, 1.65-3.76; P <0.0001; I2 =0%). However, the procedure time and rates of procedure-related complications did not differ significantly between the 2 groups. Tip-in EMR outperformed C-EMR for both the en bloc and complete resection of colorectal lesions with similar rates of procedural complications.

Efficacy and safety of compound glycyrrhizin in combination with conventional therapy in treatment of vitiligo: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Vitiligo is an acquired chronic depigmentary disorder affecting approximately 0.5% to 1% of individuals worldwide. The compound glycyrrhizin (CG), a complementary medicine, has been reported for treatment of vitiligo, but the evidence has not been systematically evaluated. We systematically assessed the efficacy and safety of CG in combination with conventional therapy for the treatment of vitiligo. We searched Embase, Web of Science, PubMed, The Cochrane Library, Chinese BioMedical Literature Database (CBM), Wanfang Data, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and VIP information from inception to July 2022. Randomized controlled trials comparing CG combined with conventional therapy with conventional therapy alone for vitiligo were included in our analysis. The primary outcome was treatment response, which defined as >50% repigmentation rate of vitiligo after treatment. The secondary outcome was incidence of adverse events. Meta-analysis was performed using the Review Manager 5.4 software. Statistical heterogeneity was evaluated with chi-square and I2 statistics, dichotomous data were expressed as risk ratios (RR) with 95% confidence intervals using the Mantel-Haenszal method. Thirty-nine studies enrolling with 3994 participants were subjected to this review. The results of our meta-analysis indicated that addition of CG had superior effectiveness on repigmentation rate than phototherapy (RR = 1.28; P < .001), immunosuppressant (RR = 1.76; P < .001), traditional Chinese medicine (RR = 1.38; P < .001), combination of phototherapy and immunosuppressant (RR = 1.42; P < .001), and combination of phototherapy and traditional Chinese medicine (RR = 1.37; P < .001). In addition, CG did not increase the incidence of adverse events for vitiligo (RR = 0.79; P = .05). CG as a complementary medicine has a potential benefit in treatment of vitiligo. However, since the methodological flaws in the studies we included, more high-quality randomized controlled trials are warranted.

Primary-level and community worker interventions for the prevention of mental disorders and the promotion of well-being in low- and middle-income countries.

There is a significant research gap in the field of universal, selective, and indicated prevention interventions for mental health promotion and the prevention of mental disorders. Barriers to closing the research gap include scarcity of skilled human resources, large inequities in resource distribution and utilization, and stigma. To assess the effectiveness of delivery by primary workers of interventions for the promotion of mental health and universal prevention, and for the selective and indicated prevention of mental disorders or symptoms of mental illness in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). To examine the impact of intervention delivery by primary workers on resource use and costs. We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, Global Index Medicus, PsycInfo, WHO ICTRP, and ClinicalTrials.gov from inception to 29 November 2021. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of primary-level and/or community health worker interventions for promoting mental health and/or preventing mental disorders versus any control conditions in adults and children in LMICs. Standardized mean differences (SMD) or mean differences (MD) were used for continuous outcomes, and risk ratios (RR) for dichotomous data, using a random-effects model. We analyzed data at 0 to 1, 1 to 6, and 7 to 24 months post-intervention. For SMDs, 0.20 to 0.49 represented small, 0.50 to 0.79 moderate, and ≥ 0.80 large clinical effects. We evaluated the risk of bias (RoB) using Cochrane RoB2. Description of studies We identified 113 studies with 32,992 participants (97 RCTs, 19,570 participants in meta-analyses) for inclusion. Nineteen RCTs were conducted in low-income countries, 27 in low-middle-income countries, 2 in middle-income countries, 58 in upper-middle-income countries and 7 in mixed settings. Eighty-three RCTs included adults and 30 RCTs included children. Cadres of primary-level workers employed primary care health workers (38 studies), community workers (71 studies), both (2 studies), and not reported (2 studies). Interventions were universal prevention/promotion in 22 studies, selective in 36, and indicated prevention in 55 RCTs. Risk of bias The most common concerns over risk of bias were performance bias, attrition bias, and reporting bias. Intervention effects 'Probably', 'may', or 'uncertain' indicates 'moderate-', 'low-', or 'very low-'certainty evidence. *Certainty of the evidence (using GRADE) was assessed at 0 to 1 month post-intervention as specified in the review protocol. In the abstract, we did not report results for outcomes for which evidence was missing or very uncertain. Adults Promotion/universal prevention, compared to usual care: - probably slightly reduced anxiety symptoms (MD -0.14, 95% confidence interval (CI) -0.27 to -0.01; 1 trial, 158 participants) - may slightly reduce distress/PTSD symptoms (SMD -0.24, 95% CI -0.41 to -0.08; 4 trials, 722 participants) Selective prevention, compared to usual care: - probably slightly reduced depressive symptoms (SMD -0.69, 95% CI -1.08 to -0.30; 4 trials, 223 participants) Indicated prevention, compared to usual care: - may reduce adverse events (1 trial, 547 participants) - probably slightly reduced functional impairment (SMD -0.12, 95% CI -0.39 to -0.15; 4 trials, 663 participants) Children Promotion/universal prevention, compared to usual care: - may improve the quality of life (SMD -0.25, 95% CI -0.39 to -0.11; 2 trials, 803 participants) - may reduce adverse events (1 trial, 694 participants) - may slightly reduce depressive symptoms (MD -3.04, 95% CI -6 to -0.08; 1 trial, 160 participants) - may slightly reduce anxiety symptoms (MD -2.27, 95% CI -3.13 to -1.41; 1 trial, 183 participants) Selective prevention, compared to usual care: - probably slightly reduced depressive symptoms (SMD 0, 95% CI -0.16 to -0.15; 2 trials, 638 participants) - may slightly reduce anxiety symptoms (MD 4.50, 95% CI -12.05 to 21.05; 1 trial, 28 participants) - probably slightly reduced distress/PTSD symptoms (MD -2.14, 95% CI -3.77 to -0.51; 1 trial, 159 participants) Indicated prevention, compared to usual care: - decreased slightly functional impairment (SMD -0.29, 95% CI -0.47 to -0.10; 2 trials, 448 participants) - decreased slightly depressive symptoms (SMD -0.18, 95% CI -0.32 to -0.04; 4 trials, 771 participants) - may slightly reduce distress/PTSD symptoms (SMD 0.24, 95% CI -1.28 to 1.76; 2 trials, 448 participants). The evidence indicated that prevention interventions delivered through primary workers - a form of task-shifting - may improve mental health outcomes. Certainty in the evidence was influenced by the risk of bias and by substantial levels of heterogeneity. A supportive network of infrastructure and research would enhance and reinforce this delivery modality across LMICs.

Comparison of the Laryngeal Mask Airway ProSeal and the Streamlined Liner of the Pharynx Airway During General Anesthesia: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

PurposeThe purpose of this article is to compare the safety of the laryngeal mask airway ProSeal (PLMA) and the streamlined liner of the pharynx airway (SLIPA) during general anesthesia. DesignThis study is a systematic review and meta-analysis. MethodsTwo authors performed searches of Embase, Web of Science, and PubMed to identify clinical trials that compared PLMA and SLIPA in patients receiving general anesthesia. Relative risk (RR) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) were used to pool the dichotomous data. The mean difference (MD) and the associated 95% CI were applied to pool continuous data. RevMan 5.0 software was used for data analysis. FindingsA total of 15 studies with 1263 patients were included. There was no significant difference between PLMA and SLIPA in the rate of insertion success on the first attempt (RR = 1.02, 95% CI [0.95, 1.09], P = .59), airway sealing pressure (MD = 0.75, 95% CI [−0.09, 1.58], P = .08) and the incidence of a sore throat (RR = 0.85, 95% CI [0.7, 1.04], P = .12). The insertion time of PLMA was shorter than SLIPA (MD = 5.24, 95% CI [0.51, 9.98], P = .03), and the incidence of bloodstaining on the device was lower (RR = 0.72, 95% CI [0.55, 0.94], P = .02). ConclusionsBoth devices have a high rate of insertion success on the first attempt and airway sealing pressure. But PLMA has a shorter insertion time and less incidence of blood staining, which is more advantageous than SLIPA.