Mean Difference Research Articles

Association of complement components with risk of colorectal cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND Complement components could contribute to the tumor microenvironment and the systemic immune response. Nevertheless, their role in colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a contentious subject. AIM To elucidate the relationship between complement components and CRC risk and clinical characteristics. METHODS Searches were conducted in PubMed, the Cochrane Library, and the China National Knowledge Infrastructure database until June 1, 2023. We included cohort studies encompassing participants aged ≥ 18 years, investigating the association between complement components and CRC. The studies were of moderate quality or above, as determined by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. The meta-analysis employed fixed-effects or random-effects models based on the I² test, utilizing risk ratio (RR) and their corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) for outcomes. Sensitivity and subgroup analyses were performed to validate the robustness of the collective estimates and identify the source of heterogeneity. RESULTS Data from 15 studies, comprising 1631 participants that met the inclusion criteria, were included in the meta-analysis. Our findings indicated that protein levels of cluster of differentiation 46 (CD46) (RR = 3.66, 95%CI: 1.75-7.64, P < 0.001), CD59 (RR = 2.86, 95%CI: 1.36-6.01, P = 0.005), and component 1 (C1) (RR = 5.88, 95%CI: 1.75-19.73, P = 0.004) and serum levels of C3 (standardized mean difference = 1.82, 95%CI: 0.06-3.58, P = 0.040) were significantly elevated in patients with CRC compared to healthy controls. Strong expression of CD55 or CD59 was associated with a higher incidence of lymph node metastasis, whereas strong CD46 expression correlated with a higher incidence of tumor differentiation compared to low CD46 expression (P < 0.05 for all). Although specific pooled results demonstrated notable heterogeneity, subgroup analyses pointed to regional differences as the primary source of inconsistency among the studies. CONCLUSION Our analysis underscores that increased levels of specific complement components are associated with a heightened risk of CRC, emphasizing the potential significance of monitoring elevated complement component levels.

Effect of Abdominal Tissue Thickness on Trabecular Bone Score and Fracture Risk in Adults With Diabetes: The Manitoba BMD Registry.

Individuals with type 2 diabetes have lower trabecular bone score (TBS) and increased fracture risk despite higher bone mineral density (BMD). However, measures of trabecular microarchitecture from high resolution peripheral computed tomography (HRpQCT) are not lower in type 2 diabetes. We hypothesized that confounding effects of abdominal tissue thickness may explain this discrepancy, since central obesity is a risk factor for diabetes and also artifactually lowers TBS. This hypothesis was tested in individuals aged 40 years and older from a large DXA registry, stratified by sex and diabetes status. When DXA-measured abdominal tissue thickness was not included as a covariate, men without diabetes had lower TBS than women without diabetes (mean difference -0.074, p<0.001). TBS was lower in women with versus without diabetes (mean difference -0.037, p<0.001), and men with versus without diabetes (mean difference -0.007, p=0.042). When adjusted for tissue thickness these findings reversed, and TBS became greater in men versus women without diabetes (mean difference +0.053, p<0.001), in women with versus without diabetes (mean difference +0.008, p<0.001) and in men with versus without diabetes (mean difference +0.014, p<0.001). During mean 8.7 years observation, incident major osteoporotic fractures were seen in 7048 (9.6%). Adjusted for multiple covariates except tissue thickness, TBS predicted fracture in all subgroups with no significant diabetes interaction. When further adjusted for tissue thickness, HR per SD lower TBS remained significant and even increased slightly. In conclusion, TBS predicts fractures independent of other clinical risk factors in both women and men, with and without diabetes. Excess abdominal tissue thickness in men and individuals with type 2 diabetes may artifactually lower TBS using the current algorithm, which reverses after accounting for tissue thickness. This supports ongoing efforts to update the TBS algorithm to directly account for the effects of abdominal tissue thickness for improved fracture risk prediction.

Surgical management of headache and facial pain/pressure in chronic rhinosinusitis: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Headache and facial pain are common symptoms of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). However, given the numerous etiologies that can cause these symptoms, the impact of sinus surgery is not well characterized. A systematic review was performed by searching the literature from inception through June 6, 2023. English-language articles reporting outcomes for facial pain/pressure or headache following endoscopic sinus surgery were selected for inclusion. Meta-analyses were performed using random and fixed effect models on continuous measures (mean), mean difference (Δ), and proportions (%). A total of 26 articles reporting on 2839 patients were selected for inclusion. The mean patient age was 44.0±3.9 (range 16.0-84.0), with an average symptom duration of 5.3±2.8 years. Among these patients, 56.5% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 52.3-60.6) were male and 77.0% (95% CI: 56.6-92.3) had nasal polyposis (NP). Patients with and without NP reported substantial reductions in both 22-item sino-nasal outcome test facial pain/pressure (with NP: -1.4 [95% CI: -1.6 to -1.2; relative reduction 59.1%]; without NP: -1.5 [95% CI: -1.9 to -1.1; relative reduction 60.9%]) and visual analogue scale (VAS) headache (with NP: -2.5 [95% CI: -2.8 to -2.1; relative reduction 67.2%]; without NP: -2.8 [95% CI: -4.7 to -1.0; relative reduction 42.7%]). Symptom reductions were greater in the without NP versus with NP group; VAS facial pain/pressure: Δ0.4 (95% CI: 0.2-0.6; p=0.0006) and VAS headache: Δ0.4 (95% CI: 0.1-0.7; p=0.02). Our findings suggest that CRS patients, regardless of polyp status, benefit from significant reductions in facial pain/pressure and headache following surgical therapy.

Effect of Low-Dose Iron Supplementation on Early Development in Breastfed Infants: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

Breastfed infants are at risk of iron deficiency, which is associated with suboptimal development. There is a paucity of evidence on the effects of iron supplementation on child development, and current guidelines are divergent. To assess whether daily iron supplementation, 1 mg/kg, between 4 and 9 months in exclusively or predominantly breastfed infants improves psychomotor development at 12 months. This was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial conducted between December 2015 and May 2020 with follow-up through May 2023 in an outpatient setting in Poland and Sweden. Participants were healthy singleton infants born at term with birth weight greater than 2500 g who were exclusively or predominantly breastfed (>50%) and did not have anemia (hemoglobin >10.5 g/dL) at age 4 months. Exclusion criteria included major illness, congenital anomaly, food allergy, and difficulty communicating with caregivers. Iron (micronized microencapsulated ferric pyrophosphate), 1 mg/kg, or placebo (maltodextrin) once daily from age 4 to 9 months. The primary outcome was psychomotor development assessed by motor score of Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development III at 12 months, adjusted for gestational age, sex, and maternal education. Secondary outcomes included cognitive and language scores at 12 months; motor, cognitive, and language scores at 24 and 36 months; iron deficiency (serum ferritin <12 ng/mL), and iron deficiency anemia (iron deficiency and hemoglobin <10.5 g/dL) at 12 months. Of 221 randomized infants (111 female), 200 (90%) were included in the intention-to-treat analysis (mean [SD] age, 12.4 [0.8] months). Iron supplementation (n = 104) compared to placebo (n = 96) had no effect on psychomotor development (mean difference [MD] for motor score, -1.07 points; 95% CI, -4.69 to 2.55), cognitive score (MD, -1.14; 95% CI, -4.26 to 1.99), or language score (MD, 0.75; 95% CI, -2.31 to 3.82) at 12 months. There were no significant differences at 24 and 36 months. The intervention did not reduce the risk for iron deficiency (relative risk [RR], 0.46; 95% CI, 0.16 to 1.30) or iron deficiency anemia (RR, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.05 to 12.46) at 12 months. No benefit was found with daily low-dose iron supplementation between 4 and 9 months with respect to psychomotor development, risk of iron deficiency, or iron deficiency anemia among breastfed infants in a setting of low risk of anemia. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02242188.

Efficacy of extracorporeal shockwave therapy, compared to corticosteroid injections, on pain, plantar fascia thickness and foot function in patients with plantar fasciitis: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

To compare the efficacy of extracorporeal shock waves versus corticosteroids injections on pain, thickness of plantar fascia and foot function in patients with plantar fasciitis. Secondarily, to assess the efficacy of radial and focused extracorporeal shock waves and the most appropriated intensity (high, medium or low). PubMed, SCOPUS, CINAHL and PEDro, until April 2024, according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Randomized controlled trials comparing the efficacy of extracorporeal shock waves versus corticosteroids injections on pain intensity and sensitivity, thickness of plantar fascia and foot function in patients with plantar fasciitis. Methodological quality and risk of bias were assessed using PEDro Scale and Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. Pooled effect was calculated using the standardized mean difference (SMD) and its 95% confidence interval (95%CI). Sixteen studies involving 1121 patients, showing a mean of 6 points in PEDro scale, were included. At three months, extracorporeal shock waves were better than corticosteroids injections in reducing pain (SMD -0.6; 95%CI -1.1 to -0.11) and thickness of the plantar fascia (SMD -0.4; 95%CI -0.8 to -0.01) and increasing foot function (SMD 0.27; 95%CI 0.12-0.44). At six months, extracorporeal shock waves are more effective in reducing pain (SMD -0.81; 95%CI -1.6 to -0.06) and increasing foot function (SMD 0.67; 95%CI 0.45-0.89). Local pain and slight erythema were the most frequent adverse events. Extracorporeal shock waves are a safe therapy, presenting more efficacy than corticosteroids injections in improving pain, thickness of plantar fascia and foot function at mid-term.

Semaglutide and Diuretic Use in Obesity-Related Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction: A Pooled Analysis of the STEP-HFpEF and STEP-HFpEF-DM trials.

In the STEP-HFpEF trial program, treatment with semaglutide resulted in multiple beneficial effects in patients with obesity-related heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Efficacy may vary according to baseline diuretic use, and semaglutide treatment could modify diuretic dose. In this pre-specified analysis of pooled data from the STEP-HFpEF and STEP-HFpEF-DM trials (n=1145), which randomized participants with HFpEF and body mass index ≥30 kg/m2 to once weekly semaglutide 2.4 mg or placebo for 52 weeks, we examined whether efficacy and safety endpoints differed by baseline diuretic use, as well as the effect of semaglutide on loop diuretic use and dose changes over the 52-week treatment period. At baseline, across no diuretic (n=220), non-loop diuretic only (n=223), and loop diuretic (<40 [n=219], 40 [n=309], and >40 [n=174] mg/day furosemide-equivalents) groups, there was progressively higher prevalence of hypertension and atrial fibrillation; and severity of obesity and heart failure. Over 52 weeks of treatment, semaglutide had a consistent beneficial effect on change in body weight across diuretic use categories (adjusted mean difference vs. placebo ranged from -8.8% [95% CI -10.3, -6.3] to -6.9% [95% CI -9.1, -4.7] from no diuretics to the highest loop diuretic dose category; interaction P=0.39). Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire clinical summary score improvement was greater in patients on loop diuretics compared to those not on loop diuretics (adjusted mean difference vs. placebo: +9.3 [6.5; 12.1] vs. +4.7 points [1.3, 8.2]; P=0.042). Semaglutide had consistent beneficial effects on all secondary efficacy endpoints (including 6-min walk distance) across diuretic subgroups (interaction P=0.24-0.92). Safety also favored semaglutide versus placebo across the diuretic subgroups. From baseline to 52 weeks, loop diuretic dose decreased by 17% in the semaglutide group vs. a 2.4% increase in the placebo group (P<0.0001). Semaglutide (vs. placebo) was more likely to result in loop diuretic dose reduction (odds ratio [OR] 2.67 [95% CI 1.70, 4.18]) and less likely dose increase (OR 0.35 [95% CI 0.23, 0.53]; P<0.001 for both) from baseline to 52 weeks. In patients with obesity-related HFpEF, semaglutide improved heart failure-related symptoms and physical limitations across diuretic use subgroups, with more pronounced benefits among patients receiving loop diuretics at baseline. Reductions in weight and improvements in exercise function with semaglutide versus placebo were consistent in all diuretic use categories. Semaglutide also led to a reduction in loop diuretic use and dose between baseline and 52 weeks. NCT04788511 and NCT04916470.

Change in Lumbar Lordosis after Decompressive Surgery in Lumbar Spinal Stenosis Patients and Associations with Patient Related Outcomes 2 Years after Surgery. Radiological and Clinical Results from the NORDSTEN Spinal Stenosis Trial.

A prospective cohort study. The aim was to investigate changes in lumbar lordosis (LL) and its association to changes in patient reported outcome measures (PROMs) after decompressive surgery for lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS). Few studies have addressed change in LL after decompression surgery for LSS in relation to outcomes. Pre- and postoperative data from 310 patients having standing x-ray both before and 2 years after surgery were included. The patients were grouped based on the change in LL preoperatively to 2 years after surgery; group 1: <5 degrees (n=196), group 2: ≥5 <10 degrees (n=55) or group 3: ≥10 degrees (n=59) of change in LL. The changes in function, disability and pain were assessed by the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), and the Zurich claudication questionnaire (ZCQ). The three groups were compared regarding baseline variables using the ANOVA test for continuous variables and the chi-square test for categorical variables. The groups were further compared with a likelihood ratio test in relation to changes in PROMs 2 year after surgery and outcomes were adjusted for respective baseline PROMs, age, sex, smoking, BMI, Schizas and Pfirrmann scores. LL was significantly changed at group level 2 years after surgery with a mean difference of 2.2 (SD 9.4) degrees ( P =0.001). The three LL change groups did not show any significant differences in patient characteristics, function, disability, and pain at baseline. The two groups with a change of more than 5 degrees in LL 2 year after surgery (group 2 and 3) had significantly greater improvements in ODI ( P =0.022) and ZCQ function ( P =0.016) in the adjusted analyses, but was not significant for back and leg pain. Changed LL after decompressive surgery for LSS was associated with improved ODI and physical function.

TOTAL QUALITY MANEGMENT

Title: Total Quality Management: A Test of the Effect of TQM on the Performance and Stakeholder Satisfaction Background and Problem Discussion: The performance of TQM Airlines and Non TQM airlines is measured comparing statistically three major performance indicator Customer satisfaction, Employee satisfaction and Operational effectiveness. To establish a link between TQM and performance and showing the need for the adoption of total quality culture in the local airline sector of the Nigeria aviation industry. Purpose: The purpose of this thesis is to highlight the benefit of TQM implementation in the Nigerian Airline industry by examining the basic principles of TQM in the airlines. The impact of TQM implementation of the three performance indicator will be assessed. Method: Quantitative and qualitative method. Primary data is collected from the airline companies by questionnaires and interview. Secondary data is gotten from articles, journals and online resources. Theory: The theory section looks at different concepts of quality as defined and viewed by various authors. Also the benefits and hindrances of TQM implementation were reviewed. Analysis: We have used a T-test hypothesis to measure the difference in means of TQM airline and Non-TQM airlines using the three performance indicator. Conclusion: The research findings confirmed the benefits that ensue from the implementation of TQM. It showed that TQM is a strategic tool industry can employ in the quest to remain competitive. It was also discovered that for the TQM to be properly implemented, everybody in the organization must be involved from the management to the employees and even the customers.

Impact of body mass index on sonographic measurement of head perineum distance before operative vaginal delivery.

To evaluate the impact of body mass index (BMI) on sonographic measurement of head perineum distance (HPD) before operative vaginal delivery (OVD). This was a single-center retrospective cohort study (Lille, France) conducted from March 1, 2019 to October 31, 2020 including all singleton and OVD. HPD measurement was systematically performed without and with compression on the perineum soft tissues. The level of station was defined by vaginal examination and three maternal BMI groups were defined (normal BMI [<24.9 kg/m2] vs overweight [25-29.9 kg/m2] vs obese [≥30 kg/m2]). HPD measures were compared between BMI groups and compression, in distinct level of station, using a two-factor analysis of variance including BMI groups, the compression, and the interaction term BMI group compression. A total of 775 women were included: 488 with normal BMI, 181 overweight patients and 106 obese patients. The measurement of HPD before OVD without and with compression on the soft tissues was significantly different between the BMI groups only in the lower part, particularly between normal BMI and obese patients (mean difference (95% CI): 6.6 mm (4.0 to 9.2) without compression; 3.8 (1.1 to 6.4) with compression). The values of HPD without and with compression on the soft tissues on the maternal perineum were different according to the maternal BMI concerning lower part station. Thus, it seems important to define thresholds of HPD measures corresponding to each head station levels according to maternal BMI.

Comparison of the Efficacy of Clascoterone, Trifarotene, and Tazarotene for the Treatment of Acne: A Systematic Literature Review and Meta-Analysis.

Acne vulgaris, a chronic inflammatory condition, is associated with significant physical and psychosocial burden. Since 2019, three new topical agents for acne vulgaris have been approved in the USA and Canada. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to compare the efficacy between twice-daily clascoterone cream 1%, once-daily trifarotene 0.005% cream, and once-daily tazarotene 0.045% lotion for acne treatment. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing clascoterone, trifarotene, or tazarotene with vehicle in patients with moderate-to-severe acne were identified from a systematic literature review and included in a meta-analysis. Primary outcomes were percentage reduction in inflammatory and noninflammatory lesion count (ILC and NILC, respectively) and treatment success rate (≥ 2-grade improvement in Investigator's Global Assessment or Evaluator's Global Severity Score and a rating of clear or almost clear) at week 12. DerSimonian and Laird random-effects models with the inverse variance method were used to calculate the mean difference (MD) for percentage reduction in ILC and NILC, and odds ratios (ORs) for the rate of treatment success. Six Phase 3 RCTs were included in the meta-analysis. The analyses showed robust differences favoring the interventions for ILC (MD: - 11.5; 95% confidence interval [CI]: - 14.39, - 8.62), NILC (MD: - 12.25; 95% CI: - 15.21, - 9.29), and treatment success rate (OR: 2.14; 95% CI: 1.81, 2.53). No differences were observed between clascoterone, trifarotene, and tazarotene for ILC (MD: - 12.8, - 11.2, and - 10.1, respectively), NILC (MD: - 11.6, - 13.9, and - 12.8, respectively), or treatment success rate (OR: 2.9, 1.9, and 2.1, respectively (all P > 0.05). No significant differences in efficacy were observed between clascoterone, trifarotene, and tazarotene after 12weeks of treatment in patients with moderate-to-severe acne. Differences in application frequency and safety profile should also be taken into consideration when making treatment decisions.

Uterine Artery Embolization Versus Hysterectomy in Postpartum Hemorrhage: A Systematic Review With Meta-Analysis.

The objective of this study is to perform a meta-analysis comparing the effectiveness of uterine artery embolization (UAE) versus peripartum hysterectomy for acute refractory postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) control. We systematically searched 6 medical databases for studies comparing UAE and hysterectomy in PPH. Outcomes examined were mortality, hospitalization duration (HD) in days, and red blood cells (RBC) units utilization. Statistical analysis used RevMan 5.1.7 and random-effects models. Odds ratios (OR) and mean differences (MDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used for dichotomous and continuous outcomes, respectively. We included 833 patients from 4 cohort studies, with 583 (70%) undergoing UAE. The UAE population required fewer RBC units (MD: -7.39; 95% CI: -14.73 to -0.04; p=0.05) and had shorter HD (MD: -3.22; 95% CI: -5.42 to -1.02; p=0.004). Lower mortality rates were noted for UAE in the pooled analysis, but no statistical significance. Uterine artery embolization demonstrated lower procedural complications (16.45% vs. 28.8%), in which UAE had less ureter and bladder lesions (OR: 0.05; 95% CI: 0.01-0.38; p=0.004 and OR: 0.02; 95% CI: 0.00-0.15; p<0.001, respectively). Only 35 (6%) required conversion to hysterectomy, while 27 (4.6%) underwent re-embolization with 100% bleeding control. Uterine artery embolization did not hinder fertility, with normal menstruation restored in 19 patients with postoligomenorrhea. Uterine artery embolization for the control of PPH is associated with lower use of RBC units and HD, but similar rates of mortality are noted when compared to hysterectomy. These results associated with uterine preservation could support its importance for refractory PPH management. Uterine Artery Embolization is associated with a shorter hospitalization duration and reduced use of red blood cell units when compared with hysterectomy in refractory postpartum hemorrhage. Although demonstrating similar mortality rates, these findings, together with fertility preservation, support the method incorporation as a valuable option in obstetric services.

Precise planning based on 3D-printed dry-laboratory models can reduce perioperative complications of laparoscopic surgery for complex hepatobiliary diseases: a preoperative cohort study

Background & aimsComplications after laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) are important factors affecting the prognosis of patients, especially for complex hepatobiliary diseases. The present study aimed to evaluate the value of a three-dimensional (3D) printed dry-laboratory model in the precise planning of LLR for complex hepatobiliary diseases.MethodsPatients with complex hepatobiliary diseases who underwent LLR were preoperatively enrolled, and divided into two groups according to whether using a 3D-printed dry-laboratory model (3D vs. control group). Clinical variables were assessed and complications were graded by the Clavien-Dindo classification. The Comprehensive Complication Index (CCI) scores were calculated and compared for each patient. Multivariable analysis was performed to determine the risk factors of postoperative complications.ResultsSixty-two patients with complex hepatobiliary diseases underwent the precise planning of LLR. Among them, thirty-one patients acquired the guidance of a 3D-printed dry-laboratory model, and others were only guided by traditional enhanced CT or MRI. The results showed no significant differences between the two groups in baseline characters. However, compared to the control group, the 3D group had a lower incidence of intraoperative blood loss, as well as postoperative 30-day and major complications, especially bile leakage (all P < 0.05). The median score on the CCI was 20.9 (range 8.7–51.8) in the control group and 8.7 (range 8.7–43.4) in the 3D group (mean difference, -12.2, P = 0.004). Multivariable analysis showed the 3D model was an independent protective factor in decreasing postoperative complications. Subgroup analysis also showed that a 3D model could decrease postoperative complications, especially for bile leakage in patients with intrahepatic cholelithiasis.ConclusionThe 3D-printed models can help reduce postoperative complications. The 3D-printed models should be recommended for patients with complex hepatobiliary diseases undergoing precise planning LLR.

The Performance of Spot Photoscreener in 6 to 10 Weeks Infants in China: A Cross-Sectional Study

Purpose. To compare the refractive errors measured by the Spot photoscreener (with or without cycloplegia) to cycloplegic retinoscopy in 6- to 10-week-old infants. Materials and Methods. 101 right eyes from 101 healthy infants aged 6 to 10 weeks were recruited for this cross-sectional observational study. Refractive errors were measured using Spot photoscreener before and after cycloplegia, as well as cycloplegic retinoscopy. Comparisons between the refractive measurements were performed using one-way ANOVA with the post hoc Tukey HSD test or Kruskal–Wallis test with the Steel–Dwass test according to the data normality. Pearson’s correlation test and 95% confidence intervals were calculated. The agreement was evaluated using a Bland–Altman plot with 95% limits of agreement of the differences. Results. Spot photoscreener was found to underestimate the spherical equivalent by 2.33 Diopters (D) in these infants. Following the induction of cycloplegia, the spherical equivalent measured by Spot photoscreener was in excellent agreement with cycloplegic retinoscopy with the mean difference of 0.01 D. Spot photoscreener overestimated cylindrical parameter by 0.2 D with poor agreement with cycloplegic retinoscopy no matter whether cycloplegia was induced. It had good agreement with cycloplegic retinoscopy in the J0 vector than the J45 vector measurement. Conclusions. With the induction of cycloplegia, Spot photoscreener can accurately evaluate spherical equivalent in hyperopic infants with mild-to-moderate astigmatism. While it may provide valuable measurements of astigmatism, discrepancies in cylinder and axis should be taken into account.

Diagnostic value of ultrasound elastography in polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Objective The main purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to investigate the diagnostic value of ultrasound elastography in the evaluation of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Methods A comprehensive and methodical investigation was carried out in the databases of PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane, Scopus, Web of Science, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure, covering the entire duration of these databases until October 18, 2023. The primary purpose of this research was to evaluate and contrast ovarian tissue elasticity in people with and without PCOS. The elasticity of ovarian tissue was quantified using standardized mean difference (SMD). Results A total of eight studies were ultimately selected for systematic evaluation and meta-analysis. Five studies used shear wave elastography (SWE) as a diagnostic tool, and it was discovered that women with PCOS had higher levels of ovarian shear wave elasticity than their healthy counterparts. The SMD was determined to be 1.86 kilopascal (95% CI: 1.27 to 2.44). Three studies were conducted using strain elastography (SE) to compare the ovarian strain ratio of patients with PCOS to that of a healthy control group. The SMD for the PCOS group was 2.07 (95% CI: 1.79 to 2.34), which indicated that the ovarian strain ratio was significantly higher in that group. Conclusion This systematic review and meta-analysis found that women with PCOS had stiffer ovarian tissue than women without the disorder. Ultrasound elastography may provide clinicians with value beyond 2D ultrasound in the diagnosis of PCOS.

Efficacy of supervised self-reduction vs. physician-assisted techniques for anterior shoulder dislocations: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background and objectiveReduction manipulation using self-reduction procedures such as Stimson, Milch, and Boss-Holtzach should be easy and effective and also require less force, pain medication, and outside assistance. This technique should not cause damage to arteries, nerves, or shoulder joint components. Self-reduction is straightforward and can be done in clinics, making it ideal for people who suffer from shoulder joint dislocation frequently. The goal of this study is to compare the effectiveness of supervised self-reduction procedures vs. physician-assisted treatments in the treatment of anterior shoulder dislocations.MethodWe conducted a comprehensive search on PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane up to March 22, 2023, using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) checklist. Relevant articles were reviewed, with a focus on studies comparing supervised self-reduction techniques to physician-assisted techniques in cases of anterior shoulder dislocation.ResultsFour papers in all were included in the meta-analysis. One prospective trial, one case-control study, one randomized clinical trial, and one retrospective trial made up these studies. The studies involved 283 patients in the physician-assisted group and 180 patients in the supervised self-reduction group. They were carried out in four European countries: Italy, Germany, Portugal, and Spain. The success rate of supervised self-reduction techniques was significantly higher, with an odds ratio of 2.71 (95% CI 1.25–5.58, p-value = 0.01). Based on the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) score, the physician-assisted group reported significantly higher maximum pain, with a mean difference of 1.98 (95% CI 1.24–2.72, p-value < 0.01). The self-reduction approaches exhibit shorter reduction time in comparison to physician-assisted groups. In addition, the self-reduction groups do not document any complications. Based on the GRADE system, the level of assurance in the evidence was high.ConclusionSupervised self-reduction techniques outperform in terms of success rate and reduction-related maximum pain. These techniques could be used as an effective first-line treatment for anterior shoulder dislocation, potentially reducing the need for analgesics and emergency room visits.

Effects of automatic heel lancet on invasiveness in neonates: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

We conducted a meta-analysis comparing the invasiveness of automatic lancet devices, which can collect adequate amount of blood at shallow puncture depths, with conventional manual lance devices (lancet or needle) to statistically identify less invasive instruments for neonatal heel lance. We searched PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), CINAHL, and Ichushi databases for studies comparing the invasiveness between automatic lancet and manual lancet or needle in term and preterm neonates in neonatal intensive care unit. This review included 9 out of 449 searched articles, with 673 neonates. Automatic lancet had significantly lower pain scores (standardised mean difference: -2.0, 95% confidence interval: -3.3 to -0.7), heart rate (mean difference: -8.0, 95% confidence interval: -13.8 to -2.1), cry duration (mean difference: -21.5, 95% confidence interval: -32.5 to -10.4), number of punctures (mean difference: -0.6, 95% confidence interval: -1.1 to -0.2), and duration of procedures (mean difference: -37.7, 95% confidence interval: -75.2 to -0.2) than manual lancet or needle. Furthermore, peripheral oxygen saturation was significantly higher in automatic lancet than in manual lancet or needle (mean difference: 4.5, 95% confidence interval: 0.5-8.5). Automatic heel lancet devices were less invasive than manual heel lance devices (lancet or needle).

Assessment of pulmonary vascular anatomy: comparing augmented reality by holograms versus standard CT images/reconstructions using surgical findings as reference standard

BackgroundWe compared computed tomography (CT) images and holograms (HG) to assess the number of arteries of the lung lobes undergoing lobectomy and assessed easiness in interpretation by radiologists and thoracic surgeons with both techniques.MethodsPatients scheduled for lobectomy for lung cancer were prospectively included and underwent CT for staging. A patient-specific three-dimensional model was generated and visualized in an augmented reality setting. One radiologist and one thoracic surgeon evaluated CT images and holograms to count lobar arteries, having as reference standard the number of arteries recorded at surgery. The easiness of vessel identification was graded according to a Likert scale. Wilcoxon signed-rank test and κ statistics were used.ResultsFifty-two patients were prospectively included. The two doctors detected the same number of arteries in 44/52 images (85%) and in 51/52 holograms (98%). The mean difference between the number of artery branches detected by surgery and CT images was 0.31 ± 0.98, whereas it was 0.09 ± 0.37 between surgery and HGs (p = 0.433). In particular, the mean difference in the number of arteries detected in the upper lobes was 0.67 ± 1.08 between surgery and CT images and 0.17 ± 0.46 between surgery and holograms (p = 0.029). Both radiologist and surgeon showed a higher agreement for holograms (κ = 0.99) than for CT (κ = 0.81) and found holograms easier to evaluate than CTs (p < 0.001).ConclusionsAugmented reality by holograms is an effective tool for preoperative vascular anatomy assessment of lungs, especially when evaluating the upper lobes, more prone to anatomical variations.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04227444Relevance statementPreoperative evaluation of the lung lobe arteries through augmented reality may help the thoracic surgeons to carefully plan a lobectomy, thus contributing to optimize patients’ outcomes.Key points• Preoperative assessment of the lung arteries may help surgical planning.• Lung artery detection by augmented reality was more accurate than that by CT images, particularly for the upper lobes.• The assessment of the lung arterial vessels was easier by using holograms than CT images.Graphical

Early nutrition is safe and does not increase complications after upper gastrointestinal bleeding—a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Despite a lack of evidence, patients are often not fed for 48–96 h after upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB); however, many trials have demonstrated the benefits of early nutrition (EN). We conducted a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RTCs) to evaluate the outcomes of EN compared to delayed nutrition (DN) after UGIB. The protocol was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42022372306). PubMed, Embase, CENTRAL, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched on the 27th of April 2024 to identify eligible RCTs. The primary outcomes were early (within 7 days) and late (within 30–42 days) mortality and rebleeding. Pooled risk ratios (RR), mean differences (MD), and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using a random-effects model. A total of 10 trials with 1051 patients were included in the analysis. Early mortality was not significantly different between the two groups (RR 1.20, CI 0.85–1.71, I2 = 0%), whereas late mortality was reduced to a clinically relevant extent in the EN group (RR 0.61, CI 0.35–1.06, I2 = 0%). When comparing the two groups, we found no significant difference in terms of early and late rebleeding (RR 1.04, CI 0.66–1.63, I2 = 0% and RR 1.16, CI 0.63–2.13, I2 = 0%, respectively). Our analysis also showed that the length of hospital stay was reduced in the EN group compared to the DN group (MD −1.22 days, CI: −2.43 to −0.01, I2 = 94%). In conclusion, compared with DN, EN (within 24 h) appears to be a safe intervention and could reduce the length of hospital stay without increasing the risk of complications after UGIB.

Effect of Incorporating 1 Avocado per Day Versus Habitual Diet on Vascular Function in Adults With Abdominal Obesity: An Ancillary Study of HAT, a Randomized Controlled Trial.

Abdominal obesity is associated with endothelial dysfunction and poorer vascular health. Avocado consumption improves postprandial endothelial function; however, the longer-term effects remain unclear. It was hypothesized that the daily addition of 1 avocado to a habitual diet for 6 months would improve flow-mediated dilation (FMD) and carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity in individuals with abdominal obesity (waist circumference ≥35 in for women, ≥40 in for men), compared with a habitual diet low in avocados. HAT (Habitual Diet and Avocado Trial) was a multicenter, randomized, controlled, parallel-arm study that investigated the health effects of adding 1 avocado per day to a habitual diet in individuals with abdominal obesity. At the Pennsylvania State University, University Park study center (n=134; age, 50 ± 13 years; women, 78%; body mass index, 32.6 ± 4.8 kg/m2), markers of vascular function were measured, including endothelial function, assessed via brachial artery flow-mediated dilation, and arterial stiffness, assessed via carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity. Between-group differences in 6-month change in flow-mediated dilation and carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity were assessed using independent t tests. Prespecified subgroup analyses were conducted using linear regression. No significant between-group differences in flow-mediated dilation (mean difference=-0.62% [95% CI, -1.70 to 0.46]) or carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (0.25 m/s [95% CI, -0.13 to 0.63]) were observed. Results of the subgroup analyses were consistent with the primary analyses. Longer-term consumption of 1 avocado per day as part of a habitual diet did not improve measures of vascular function compared with a habitual diet low in avocados in individuals with abdominal obesity. URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT03528031.

Medical Management of Headache and Facial Pain in CRS: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

This study aims to characterize the effect of medical therapy on headache and facial pain/pressure among patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). CINAHL, PubMed, and Scopus. CINAHL, PubMed, and Scopus were searched from inception through April 10th, 2024, for English language articles reporting headache or facial pain/pressure outcomes in CRS patients. Inclusion was restricted to studies reporting results of the medical treatment of CRS in nonsurgical cohorts. Primary outcome measures included the sino-nasal outcome test (SNOT) and the visual analogue scale (VAS). Meta-analyses of continuous measures (mean), mean difference (Δ), and proportions (%) were conducted. The initial search yielded 2429 unique articles. After a full-text review of 272 articles, 17 studies reporting outcomes for 2269 patients were included in the meta-analysis. The mean patient age was 48.6 years (range 18.0-86.0; 95% CI: 46.5 to 50.6), among which 55.4% (95% CI: 51.5 to 59.4) were male and 82.9% (95% CI: 68.8 to 93.4) had nasal polyposis. SNOT facial pain/pressure scores improved by 1.1 points (95% CI: -1.7 to -0.5; relative reduction 40.4%) with non-biologic therapies and 1.0 point (95% CI: -1.4 to -0.6; relative reduction 54.6%) with biologic therapies. On an 11-point scale, VAS headaches scores improved by 1.8 units (95% CI: -3.3 to -0.3; 42.1% relative reduction) in CRSwNP patients and 1.0 unit (95% CI: -1.7 to -0.3; 54.0% relative reduction) in CRSsNP patients. Our findings suggest medical therapy significantly reduces facial pain and pressure in the CRS population. Laryngoscope, 2024.