Effect Model Analysis Research Articles

Effectiveness of ethnomathematics-based learning on students’ mathematical literacy: a meta-analysis study

This study aims to determine the effectiveness of ethnomathematics-based learning on students’ mathematical literacy through a meta-analysis study. Primary studies were collected from Google Scholar and ERIC databases based on the inclusion criteria. The results of the literature review obtained 16 studies, either from theses, proceedings, or journal articles. Furthermore, the effect sizes were combined according to the Random Effects Model (REM) and data analysis using CMA v3 and R Studio (Meta Package). The calculation results obtained an overall effect size which indicates that ethnomathematics-based learning has a “strong” effect on students’ mathematical literacy when compared to conventional learning. As a result of the moderator category analysis, it was found that the effect sizes differed significantly according to students’ regional demographics, independent variables, and subject matter. However, it does not show significant differences when based on the duration of the meeting, education level, sample size, experimental design, type and year of publication. Thus, it can be said that ethnomathematics-based learning can be an effective learning model for increasing students’ understanding of mathematical literacy, especially in the Kalimantan Island region, recommended to be integrated with the Ethnomathematics Pop Up Book and Visual Thinking learning model, and Probability & Sets and Transformation Geometry materials, using Nonequivalent Control Group Design are recommended to be taught through this learning model.

Cisternal Blood Clearance Attenuates Systemic Inflammatory Response After Subarachnoid Hemorrhage

Abstract Background Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) frequently triggers systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS). SIRS has been associated with inferior outcomes and, specifically, delayed cerebral infarction after aneurysmal SAH. Here, we assess the impact of intracranial blood clearance through stereotactic catheter ventriculocisternostomy on SIRS in patients with aneurysmal SAH. Methods We assessed daily SIRS criteria (heart rate > 90 beats/min, respiratory rate > 20 breaths/min or abnormal respiratory coefficient, temperature > 38 °C or < 36 °C, white blood cell count < 4000 or > 12,000 cells/mm3) between admission and day 21 in 80 consecutive patients who underwent cisternal lavage through stereotactic catheter ventriculocisternostomy from 2015 to 2022. These patients were compared with 80 matched controls who received treatment at our institution between 2010 and 2015. We conducted a mixed effects model analysis using restricted maximum likelihood estimation to assess the effects of treatment groups on the SIRS rate while accounting for repeated measures. Additionally, Bonferroni’s correction was employed to examine specific differences between groups at different time points. Results The mean percentages of patients meeting SIRS criteria during the first 21 days after aneurysmal SAH were 23% in the matched cohort group and 14% in patients who underwent cisternal lavage (p < 0.001). Additionally, significant differences were observed in the mean leukocyte count (p = 0.047), mean heart rate (p = 0.019), and mean respiratory rate (p = 0.0018) between the two groups. However, there was no significant difference in mean body temperature (p = 0.36). Conclusions Intracranial blood clearance and cisternal lavage after aneurysmal SAH is associated with a decline in SIRS prevalence and severity.

Comparative analysis of the leprosy detection rate regarding its clinical spectrum through PCR using the 16S rRNA gene: a scientometrics and meta-analysis.

Leprosy is a chronic and disabling infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae. It has a wide clinical spectrum and is operationally classified into paucibacillary (PB) and multibacillary (MB) cases. There is evidence that the 16S rRNA gene can be used in Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) for complementary detection with high sensitivity and specificity. However, there is no literature convention on its diagnostic correspondence regarding the particular operational classification of the disease. This study aimed to correlate, through a meta-analysis, the detection rate of leprosy between the PCR method with the 16S rRNA gene in the clinical forms PB and MB in relation to confirmed cases. This is a systematic review and meta-analysis study conducted according to the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, using the search descriptors with "AND": "Leprosy"; "Polymerase Chain Reaction"; "16S rRNA" in the PUBMED, SciELO, LILACS, and Science Direct databases. The search was limited to original observational articles in Portuguese, English, or Spanish, with no defined time frame. The methodological quality assessment of the selected articles was performed using the JBI checklists. A scientometric approach to the article using used the VOS Viewer and Scimago Graphica software. The meta-analysis was conducted using Comprehensive Meta-Analyses software, under Pearson's Correlation effect test and fixed effect model and subgroup analysis concerning the type of sample analyzed. The study was significant from the perspective of the paucibacillary group (Clinical biopsy: -0.45 [95% CI= -0.63 - -0.22], p < 0.001/ Slit smear skin: -0.52 [95% CI= -0.65 - -0.36], p < 0.001 / Overall: -0.50 [95% CI= -0.61 - -0.37], p < 0.001). The PCR diagnostic method for the16S rRNAgene ofM. lepraehas low viability and diagnostic sensitivity in both clinical biopsy samples and leprosy skin smears. This implies little validation of it as a PCR target gene for diagnosing the disease, highlighting limitations in the actual technique. https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42024588790.

Enhanced Recovery After Surgery Protocols in One- or Two-Level Posterior Lumbar Fusion: Improving Postoperative Outcomes.

Background/Objectives: Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols optimize perioperative care and improve recovery. This study evaluated the effectiveness of ERAS in one- or two-level posterior lumbar fusion surgeries, focusing on perioperative medication use, pain management, and functional outcomes. Methods: Eighty-eight patients undergoing lumbar fusion surgery between March 2021 and February 2022 were allocated into pre-ERAS (n = 41) and post-ERAS (n = 47) groups. Outcomes included opioid and antiemetic consumption, pain scores (numerical rating scale (NRS)), functional recovery (Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and EuroQol 5 Dimension (EQ-5D)), and complication rates. Pain was assessed daily for the first four postoperative days and at 6 months. Linear Mixed Effects Model analysis evaluated pain trajectories. Results: The post-ERAS group showed significantly lower opioid (p = 0.005) and antiemetic (p < 0.001) use. No significant differences were observed in NRS pain scores in the first 4 postoperative days. At 6 months, the post-ERAS group reported significantly lower leg pain (p = 0.002). The time:group interaction was not significant for back (p = 0.848) or leg (p = 0.503) pain. Functional outcomes at 6 months, particularly ODI and EQ-5D scores, showed significant improvement in the post-ERAS group. Complication rates were lower in the post-ERAS group (4.3% vs. 19.5%, p = 0.024), while hospital stay and fusion rates remained similar. Conclusions: The ERAS protocol significantly reduced opioid and antiemetic use, improved long-term pain management and functional recovery, and lowered complication rates in lumbar fusion patients. These findings support the implementation of ERAS protocols in spinal surgery, emphasizing their role in enhancing postoperative care.

Prevalence and associated factors of post-traumatic stress disorder in pediatric populations in Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis

IntroductionPost-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a prevalent challenge faced by individuals following traumatic events. Given the substantial impact of PTSD on the well-being of young people, comprehensive assessment of the available evidence can inform more effective prevention and intervention strategies to support the mental health and resilience of children in the African context. Despite its high incidence, there has been no up-to-date systematic synthesis of evidence to measure the magnitude of PTSD in pediatric populations in Africa. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to quantify the prevalence of PTSD and identify associated factors in this vulnerable population.MethodsA systematic search was conducted across multiple databases, including PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Science Direct, and the search engines Google Scholar and Google, covering the period from 2014 up to May 15, 2024. The primary objective of this search was to identify relevant studies. Subsequently, a meta-analysis was performed using random-effects models to estimate the pooled effect size for each outcome of interest. Additionally, subgroup analysis was conducted to explore potential sources of heterogeneity, with study characteristics considered as covariates.ResultsThe pooled prevalence estimate for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among pediatric individuals was 36% (95% CI: 28–44%). Notably, significant heterogeneity existed among the studies (I2 = 98.41%, p value < 0.001), prompting us to employ a random effect model analysis. Furthermore, our meta-analysis revealed that children above 14 years of age and those who experienced family deaths due to traumatic events were significantly associated with PTSD.ConclusionThis systematic review and meta-analysis revealed that the prevalence of PTSD among pediatric individuals aged 0–18 years in Africa was high. Notably, older children and those who experienced family deaths due to traumatic events were at a significantly higher risk of developing PTSD. These findings underscore the need for early intervention, age-specific support, and trauma-informed care to address the mental health challenges faced by pediatric populations.

The Impact of Tax Incentives on the Growth of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises: A Comparative Study Based on Industry

Tax incentive policies have been widely used as a crucial tool to promote the development of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), but their effectiveness varies across different industries and policy types. This study utilizes a comprehensive panel dataset from 2015 to 2023 to investigate the impact of Value-Added Tax (VAT) and income tax incentives on the growth of SMEs in China. Through fixed effects model analysis, we find that both VAT and income tax incentives significantly enhance SMEs' sales revenue and total asset growth. However, the magnitude of these effects differs substantially across industries, with high-tech and information technology service industries benefiting the most. Our industry comparison analysis reveals that the effectiveness of tax incentives is closely related to industry-specific characteristics, such as research and development (R&amp;D) intensity and capital requirements. These findings provide key empirical evidence for optimizing SME tax policies and suggest that a more nuanced, industry-specific approach to tax incentives is needed. This study not only contributes to the literature on SME growth and tax policy effectiveness but also offers important insights for policymakers to refine SME support systems in the context of rapid technological change and economic transformation.

Effects of a food supplement containing phosphatidylserine on cognitive function in Chinese older adults with mild cognitive impairment: A randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

BackgroundPhosphatidylserine (PS) and α-Linolenic acid (ALA), are positively associated with cognitive function, but their combination effects and possible mechanisms remain unclear. We aimed to explore the effects on cognition and potential mechanism of the supplements. MethodsThis randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial recruited 190 MCI patients in Tianjin, China, and randomly assigned in intervention group and placebo group. Each group consumed two capsules every day for 12 months. Each capsule for intervention group contains 144 mg ALA, 31.5 mg PS and 3.6 mg Ginkgo total flavonoids as main functional components, with 0.48 mg Vitamin B1 (as thiamine hydrochloride), 0.48 mg Vitamin B6 (as pyridoxine hydrochloride) and 90 μg folic acid as supplement. Capsules for placebo group were identical but contain no active ingredients. Cognitive function, serum n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and neurotransmitters were assessed at baseline and 12 months. Linear mixed effects model and causal mediation analysis were conducted to explore the effects and potential mechanism of the intervention. ResultsA total of 190 participants (mean [SD] age, 67.95 [5.62] years; 70 (36.8 %) male and 120 (63.2 %) female) were randomized to the placebo group (n = 95) and intervention group (n = 95). Compared with placebo group, the intervention group had statistically significant improvements in arithmetic testing (β, 0.688; 95 % CI, 0.103–1.274), the similarity test (β, 1.070; 95 % CI, 0.472–1.667) and short-term memory (β, 0.600; 95 % CI, 0.399–0.800). Besides, the intervention group had statistically significant increases in serum ALA (β, 1.620; 95 % CI, 0.967–2.265), DHA (β, 2.797; 95 % CI, 1.075–4.532), EPA (β, 1.472; 95 % CI, 0.296–2.643), acetylcholine (β, 0.441; 95 % CI, 0.415–0.468), GABA (β, 0.009; 95 % CI, 0.001–0.016) and 5-HT (β, 0.160; 95 % CI, 0.081–0.238) compared to the placebo group. And the intervention may improve short-term memory by increasing serum ALA levels (average causal mediation effect = 0.132, 95 % CI, 0.053–0.225) with 19.7 % mediation proportion. ConclusionsThis food supplement containing phosphatidylserine could improve different cognitive functions of MCI patients, especially short-term memory, and increase serum n-3 PUFAs and neurotransmitters levels. Serum ALA level might play a mediation role.

Financial Inclusion, Environmental Quality, and Economic Development in Asian Economies: A Panel Data Analysis

The objective of this study is to explore the effect of Financial Inclusion and Environmental Quality on Economic Development of some selected Asian economies. For this purpose, panel data of some Asian economies has been taken from 2004 to 2023 from the World Development Indicators. The results are estimated by using the Fixed Effect Model and Random Effect Model, descriptive statistics, correlation, and causality analysis. The results of Fixed Effect model reveal that GDP is significantly increased by Internet Subscribers &amp; Mobile users (Financial Inclusion variables), FDI, Government expenditure and Carbon dioxide emission while GDP is insignificantly increased by energy use in the Asian economies. The Fixed Effect model suggests policy implications for Asian economies, focusing on digital connectivity, FDI attraction, targeted public expenditure, sustainable growth practices, and energy efficiency.

Intersectional equity in Brazil's remote rural municipalities: the road to efficiency and effectiveness in local health systems.

The Brazilian remote rurality has been classified more reliably only recently, according to demographic density, proportion of urban population, and accessibility to urban centers. It comprises 5.8% of the municipalities, in nearly half of the states, with a population of 3,524,597 (1.85%). Remote rural localities (RRL) have reduced political/economic power, facing greater distances and barriers. Most health strategies are developed with the urban space in mind. We aim to understand how RRL are positioned concerning efficiency/effectiveness in health, compared to other urban-rural typologies of Brazilian localities, focusing on Primary Health Care (PHC), and its organizational models. We evaluated the efficiency and effectiveness of the organizational models using the health production model, from 2010-2019, gradually deepening the immersion into the RRL reality. We analyzed the human and financial resources dimensions, emphasizing teams, the results of PHC actions, and health levels. We used the fixed effects model and data envelopment analysis, cross-sectioned by intersectional inequities. We compared the Brazilian states with and without RRL, Brazilian municipalities according to rural-urban typologies, and RRL clusters. Brazilian RRL states show superior resource/health efficiency through services utilization according to health needs. The remote rural typology demonstrated greater efficiency and effectiveness in health than the other typologies in the RRL states. The organizational models with the Family Health Strategy (FHS) teams and the Community Health Worker (CHW) visits played a key role, together with local per capita health expenditures and intergovernmental transfers. Thus, financial resources and health professionals are essential to achieve efficient/effective results in health services. Among the RRL, the Amazon region clusters stand out, denoting the importance of riverine and fluvial health teams, the proportion of diagnostic/treatment units in addition to the proportion of illiteracy and adolescent mothers along with the inequity of reaching high levels of schooling between gender/ethnicity. Hopefully, these elements might contribute to gains in efficiency and effectiveness, prioritizing the allocation of financial/human resources, mobile FHS teams, availability of local diagnosis/treatment, and basic sanitation. Finally, one should aim for equity of gender/ethnicity in income and education and, above all, of place, perceived in its entirety.

ThP3.5 - A systematic review of comparing the outcomes of per-oral endoscopic myotomy vs pneumatic dilation in patients diagnosed with achalasia

Abstract Objective The objective of this meta-analysis is to compare the success rate of per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) versus pneumatic dilation (PD) for patients with achalasia. Methods Studies reporting success rates and symptoms in patients undergoing POEM versus PD were selected from medical electronic databases and meta-analysis was conducted by following the guidelines of the Cochrane Collaboration using statistical software RevMan version 5. Results Four studies on 319 patients reporting success rates and Eckardt scores were included. In the random effect model analysis, the success rate [odds ratio (OR) 6.22, 95%, CI (3.23, 11.97), Z = 5.47, p = 0.00001] favoured the PD and there was no heterogeneity (Tau2 = 0; Chi2 = 1.29, df = 2 (P = 0.53; I2 = 0 %) among included studies. Eckardt scores [mean difference -0.36, 95%, CI (-0.76, 0.03), Z = 1.79, p = 0.07] suggesting the achalasia symptoms severity was also similar in both interventions. There was moderate heterogeneity (Tau2 = 0.10; Chi2 = 7.47, df = 3 (P = 0.06; I2 = 60 %) among the included studies. Conclusion The POEM seems to be more successful when compared to the PD for patients with achalasia. On comparison of Eckardt score, there was no statistical difference seen between the two groups.

WP1.7 - A systematic review and a meta-analysis of randomised control trials of prophylactic ilioinguinal neurectomy versus ilioinguinal nerve preservation for open inguinal hernia repair

Abstract Objective The objective of this meta-analysis is to compare the outcomes of prophylactic ilioinguinal neurectomy versus ilioinguinal nerve preservation for open inguinal hernia repair. Methods Studies reporting the patient outcomes were selected from medical electronic databases and meta-analysis was conducted by following the guidelines of the Cochrane Collaboration using statistical software RevMan version 5. Results Seven studies on 1,333 patients reporting post-operative outcomes were included. In the random effect model analysis, the severe pain at the end of the follow-up period [odds ratio (OR) 0.45, 95%, CI (0.10, 2.08), Z = 1.03, p = 0.30] was similar in both the groups with high heterogeneity (Tau2 = 0.97; Chi2 = 4.45, df = 1 (P = 0.03; I2 = 78 %) among included studies. Hypoesthesia at 6-month follow-up period [odds ratio 1.00, 95%, CI (0.47, 2.15), Z = 0.00, p = 1.00] suggests comparable outcomes in both groups with no heterogeneity among the included studies. The absence of pain reported by patients at the 6-month follow-up period [odds ratio 0.96, 95%, CI (0.72, 1.27), Z = 0.28, P = 0.78] suggests comparable outcomes in both groups with no heterogeneity among the included studies. Conclusion Post-operative outcomes like chronic groin pain, hypoesthesia or no pain reported by patients were similar in both groups. There was a paucity of data, therefore a major multicentre randomised control trial is recommended to strengthen the findings of this meta-analysis.

SP1.2 - Laparoscopic versus Robotic ventral hernia repair: a systematic review and meta-analysis comparing the perioperative outcomes randomised controlled trials

Abstract Objective The objective of this meta-analysis is to compare the perioperative surgical outcomes and cost-effectiveness of robotic incisional/ventral hernia repair (RIVHR) versus laparoscopic incisional/ventral hernia repair (LIVHR). Methods Randomised control trials (RCTs) reporting perioperative outcomes and costs in patients undergoing RIVHR versus LIVHR were selected from medical electronic databases and meta-analysis was conducted under the guidelines of the Cochrane Collaboration using statistical software RevMan version 5. Results Four RCTs on 337 patients reporting perioperative outcomes and cost comparison were included. In the random effect model analysis, the duration of operation [standardized mean difference (SMD) -48.07, 95%, CI (-78.06, -18.07), z = 3.14, p = 0.002] was shorter and cost was lower [SMD 0.82, 95%, CI (-1.48, -0.16), z = 2.45, p = 0.01] in the LIVHR group but with significant statistical heterogeneity. However, the variables of hernia recurrence [risk ratio (RR) 2.29, 95%, CI (0.73, 7.12), z = 1.43, p = 0.15] and surgical site complications [RR 0.85, 95%, CI (0.48, 1.50), z = 0.55, p = 0.58] were statistically similar in both groups without any statistical heterogeneity among the included studies. Conclusion The RIVHR does not offer any superiority over LIVHR in all perioperative variables and it is not cost effective. Due to the paucity of the RCTs, a major multi-centre RCT is needed to validate these findings.

ThP7.13 - A systematic review of the perioperative outcomes of surgical fixation versus conservative approach for severe rib fractures

Abstract Objective The objective of this meta-analysis is to compare the patient outcomes for severe rib fractures being managed by operative or non-operative treatment. Methods Studies reporting patient outcomes in patients undergoing surgical fixation or conservative approach were selected from medical electronic databases and meta-analysis was conducted by following the guidelines of the Cochrane Collaboration using statistical software RevMan version 5. Results Three studies on 258 patients reporting patient outcomes were included. In the random effect model analysis, the total hospital stay [mean difference -1.44, 95%, CI (-2.88, 0.00), Z = 1.96, p = 0.05] was comparable between the two groups with no heterogeneity among included studies. The intensive care stay [mean difference -2.36, 95%, CI (-5.92, 1.21), Z = 1.30, p = 0.20] and mortality [odds ratio 1.08, 95%, CI (0.11, 10.31), Z = 0.07, p = 0.94] was comparable between the two groups but with moderate heterogeneity among included studies. Pneumonia was more common in patients of the non-operative group [odds ratio 0.35, 95%, CI (0.15, 0.82), Z = 2.41, p = 0.02] with no heterogeneity among included studies. Conclusion Pneumonia was more common in patients in the patients managed with the conservative approach. Other patient outcomes were comparable between the two groups. Due to the paucity of data, multiple other crucial variables could not be assessed and a major multi-centre randomised control trial is needed to confirm the findings of this meta-analysis.

SP4.6 - Endoscopic versus laparoscopic management of pancreatic pseudocyst - A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract Objective The aim of this meta-analysis is to compare the postoperative surgical outcomes of endoscopic versus laparoscopic management of pancreatic pseudocyst. Methods Two randomised control trials (RCTs) and four comparative trials reporting postoperative outcomes for patients undergoing treatment with endoscopic transgastric or transduodenal drainage versus laparoscopic cyst-gastrectomy or cyst-jejunostomy for the pancreatic pseudocyst were selected from medical electronic databases and meta-analysis was conducted by the guidelines of the Cochrane Collaboration using statistical software RevMan version 5.4. Results Two RCTs and four comparative trials on 401 patients reporting postoperative outcomes were included. In the random effect model analysis, the overall success rate [odds ratio (OR) 0.81, 95%, CI (0.38, 1.72), Z = 0.54, P = 0.59] was comparable between the two groups with no heterogeneity among the included studies. Adverse events after the procedure was also comparable between the two groups [OR 0.72, 95%, CI (0.34, 1.50), Z = 0.89, P = 0.37] with no heterogeneity among the included studies. Hospital stay was shorter in the endoscopic group [Mean difference -2.71, 95%, CI (-4.14, -1.27), Z = 3.69, P = 0.0002] with high statistical heterogeneity among the included studies. Conclusion The patients managed with endoscopic procedures had shorter hospital stay, but the incidence of adverse post-procedure outcomes and overall success rate were comparable between the two groups. Due to the paucity of the RCTs, a major multi-centre RCT is needed to strengthen the findings of this systematic review.

SP2.11 - Continuous versus interrupted closure of midline laparotomy wound with absorbable suture material - A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

Abstract Objective The objective of this meta-analysis is to compare the postoperative surgical outcomes of continuous versus interrupted closure of the midline laparotomy wound with absorbable suture material. Methods Randomised control trials (RCTs) reporting postoperative outcomes for patients undergoing closure with continuous versus interrupted closure of midline laparotomy wound with absorbable suture material were selected from medical electronic databases and meta-analysis was conducted by the guidelines of the Cochrane Collaboration using statistical software RevMan version 5. Results Four RCTs on 2,198 patients reporting postoperative outcomes were included. In the random effect model analysis, the wound dehiscence [odds ratio (OR) 0.93, 95%, CI (0.52, 1.64), Z = 0.26, P = 0.79] was comparable between the two groups with no heterogeneity among the included studies. Incisional hernia was also comparable between the two groups [OR 0.82, 95%, CI (0.59, 1.14), Z = 1.19, P = 0.23] with mild heterogeneity among the included studies. Wound infection was also comparable between the two groups [OR 1.30, 95%, CI (0.78, 2.17), Z = 1.01, P = 0.31] with moderate statistical heterogeneity among the included studies. Conclusion The continuous suturing closure had no superiority over interrupted closure for the midline laparotomy wound on comparing wound dehiscence, incisional hernia and wound infection. Due to the paucity of the RCTs, a major multi-centre RCT is needed to validate these findings.

Long-term efficacy of total versus posterior partial fundoplication in patients with gastro-oesophageal reflux disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Laparoscopic fundoplication remains the standard treatment for patients with severe gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD). Multiple randomised controlled trials (RCTs) have compared the two most commonly performed surgical techniques, total and posterior partial fundoplication (Nissen [NF] and Toupet [TF]), in terms of symptom control and treatment failure in patients without subsequent dysmotility disorders. We aimed to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of these two techniques with regard to the long-term effect on reflux control and associated dysphagia. The MEDLINE®, Embase®, PubMed® and Cochrane Library databases were searched, and all the relevant published RCTs were shortlisted according to the inclusion criteria. The summated outcomes of long-term results relating to the recurrence of GORD and dysphagia were evaluated in a meta-analysis using RevMan software. Eight studies (all RCTs) on 1,545 patients undergoing NF or TF were eligible for inclusion in this meta-analysis. There were 799 patients in the NF group and 746 in the TF group. In the random effects model analysis, the incidence of long-term recurrence of GORD was not statistically different between the NF and TF cohorts (odds ratio [OR]: 0.69, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.34-1.41, z=1.01, p=0.31). However, the incidence of long-term dysphagia was statistically lower in the TF group (OR: 2.92, 95% CI: 1.49-5.72, z=3.13, p=0.002) with low between-study heterogeneity (I2=0%). The findings of this systematic review and meta-analysis on symptomatic GORD appear to be in favour of partial posterior fundoplication (TF) as the optimal treatment. It provides equivalent outcomes in reflux symptom control with a lower risk of postoperative dysphagia compared with total fundoplication (NF).

Comparative Outcomes of Single-Stage versus Two-Stage Laparoscopic Fowler-Stephens Orchidopexy: A Systematic Review snd Meta-Analysis.

Intra-abdominal testis (IAT) remains a challenging and controversial subset within the management of cryptorchidism. While Fowler-Stephens orchidopexy (FSO) is still being advocated as the gold standard for the treatment of this entity, there is new and conflicting evidence on the comparative outcomes between single- or two-stage laparoscopic FSO (LFSO). The aim of the study is to investigate whether staging has benefits in children receiving LFSO. We searched the PubMed, Medline, Embase, and Cochrane Trials databases for studies comparing single- with two-stage LFSO in children from January 1, 1995 to December 31, 2023. We assessed the identified studies for quality and performed a systematic review and meta-analysis in accordance with the Preferred Reporting of Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. The main outcome measures examined were success rate (in terms of the scrotal position of the testis) and testicular atrophy, which were analyzed using fixed effect models. We included 17 eligible studies that involved a total of 499 operated testes. The overall success rates of single- and two-stage LFSO were 79.4 and 90.3%, respectively. The overall testicular atrophy rates of single- and two-stage LFSO were 17.3 and 11%, respectively. Fixed effect model analysis showed that two-stage LFSO is significantly superior to single-stage LFSO in overall success rate (odds ratio [OR: 2.57]; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.50-4.39, p = 0.0006) and testicular atrophy rate (OR: 0.48; 95% CI: 0.28-0.79, p = 0.004). There is no heterogeneity in the reports, and the funnel plot showed no publication bias. Two-stage LFSO remains the first choice of operation for children with a high IAT, with a significantly higher success rate and a lower testicular atrophy rate.

Productivity unleashed: An ARDL model analysis of innovation and globalization effects

Productivity unleashed: An ARDL model analysis of innovation and globalization effects

Do green innovation and governance limit CO2 emissions: evidence from twelve polluting countries with panel data decision tree model

We examine the effectiveness of green innovation on CO2 emissions in the top twelve polluting nations—China, the US, India, Russia, Japan, South Korea, Canada, Mexico, Turkey, Italy, Poland, and the UK—from 1996 to 2020. Using panel data fixed and random effect model and decision tree analysis, we found that industrialization, urbanization, and economic growth increase CO2 emissions, whereas green energy consumption and governance decrease CO2 emissions. In the panel data tree-based model, governance is in the second and third positions in the decision tree fixed, and random effect model. Green innovation is not statistically significant despite the expected negative sign. The findings suggest that policymakers should encourage investment in green energy production and governance to combat environmental degradation. Investment in green energy should be escalated to ensure energy efficiency in the long term.

Innovation's influence on working capital management and profitability: A Chinese high‐tech manufacturing perspective

AbstractThis study investigates the role of corporate innovation in moderating the impact of working capital management on profitability for a Chinese high‐tech manufacturing industry. Using a two‐way fixed effect model and subgroup analysis, we found that net working capital (NWC) negatively impacted corporate profitability, while corporate innovation magnified the inverse association between the NWC and profitability. This moderating effect was stronger in non‐state‐owned enterprises (SOEs) than in SOEs, and different company sizes exhibited varying effects. This study enhances our understanding of the role of corporate innovation financial management and provides valuable insights for innovation research in emerging economies.