Methodological Index For Non-Randomized Studies Research Articles

Impact of metformin on melanoma: a meta-analysis and systematic review

BackgroundThere is evidence of a modest reduction in skin cancer risk among metformin users. However, no studies have further examined the effects of metformin on melanoma survival and safety outcomes. This study aimed to quantitatively summarize any influence of metformin on the overall survival (OS) and immune-related adverse effects (irAEs) in melanoma patients.MethodsSelection criteria: The inclusion criteria were designed based on the PICOS principles. Information sources: PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science were searched for relevant literature published from the inception of these databases until November 2023 using ‘Melanoma’ and ‘Metformin’ as keywords. Survival outcomes were OS, progression-free survival (PFS), recurrence-free survival (RFS), and mortality; the safety outcome was irAEs. Risk of bias and data Synthesis: The Cochrane tool for assessing the risk of bias in randomized trial 2 (RoB2) and methodological index for non-randomized studies (MINORS) were selected to assess the risk of bias. The Cochrane Q and I2 statistics based on Stata 15.1 SE were used to test the heterogeneity among all studies. Funnel plot, Egger regression, and Begg tests were used to evaluate publication bias. The leave-one-out method was selected as the sensitivity analysis tool.ResultsA total of 12 studies were included, involving 111,036 melanoma patients. The pooled HR for OS was 0.64 (95% CI [0.42, 1.00], p = 0.004, I2 = 73.7%), HR for PFS was 0.89 (95% CI [0.70, 1.12], p = 0.163, I2 = 41.4%), HR for RFS was 0.62 (95% CI [0.26, 1.48], p = 0.085, I2 = 66.3%), and HR for mortality was 0.53 (95% CI [0.46, 0.63], p = 0.775, I2 = 0.0%). There was no significant difference in irAEs incidence (OR = 1.01; 95% CI [0.42, 2.41]; p = 0.642) between metformin and no metformin groups.DiscussionThe improvement in overall survival of melanoma patients with metformin may indirectly result from its diverse biological targets and beneficial effects on multiple systemic diseases. While we could not demonstrate a specific improvement in the survival of melanoma patients, the combined benefits and safety of metformin for patients taking the drug are worthy of recognition.Systematic review registrationhttps://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, identifier CRD42024518182.

Rotational Stability of Toric Intraocular Lenses by Lens Model and Haptic Design: A Systematic Review and Single-Arm Meta-Analysis.

Rotational stability is key for optimizing postoperative visual outcomes as even a small degree of rotation of a toric intraocular lens (IOL) from its target axis can result in a significant reduction of astigmatic correction. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the rotational stability of toric IOLs of different lens models and haptic designs. All published studies and clinical trials that investigate postoperative rotation of toric IOLs were searched and evaluated. Quality of studies was assessed using the Methodological Index for Nonrandomized Studies (MINORS) scale. A single-arm meta-analysis was performed in R4.3.1 software with subgroup analysis performed based on lens model and haptic design. Fifty-one published studies of 4863 eyes were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled mean absolute rotation of all toric IOLs was 2.36° (95% CI: 2.08-2.64). Postoperative rotation is dependent on many aspects of lens material and design. Modern commercially available toric IOLs exhibit exceptional rotational stability.

Usefulness of Fluorescence imaging with indocyanine green for evaluation of bowel perfusion in the urgency setting: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Fluorescence imaging with indocyanine (ICG) has been extensively utilized to assess bowel perfusion in oncologic surgery. In the emergency setting there are many situations in which bowel perfusion assessment is required. Large prospective studies or RCTs evaluating feasibility, safety and utility of ICG in the emergency setting are lacking. The primary aim is to assess the usefulness of ICG for evaluation of bowel perfusion in the emergency setting. The manuscript was drafted following the recommendations of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement (PRISMA). A systematic literature search was carried out through Pubmed, Scopus, and the ISI Web of Science. Assessment of included study using the methodological index for non-randomized studies (MINORS) was calculated. The meta-analysis was carried out in line with recommendations from the Cochrane Collaboration and Meta-analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology guidelines, and the Mantel-Haenszel random effects model was used to calculate effect sizes. 10,093 papers were identified. 84 were reviewed in full-text, and 78 were excluded: 64 were case reports; 10 were reviews without original data; 2 were letters to the editor; and 2 contained unextractable data. Finally, six studies22-27 were available for quality assessment and quantitative synthesis. The probability of reoperation using ICG fluorescence angiography resulted similar to the traditional assessment of bowel perfusion with a RD was -0.04 (95% CI:-0.147 to 0.060). The results were statistically significant P=0.029, although the heterogeneity was not negligible with a 59.9% of the I2 index. No small study effect or publication bias were found. This first metanalysis on the use of IGC fluorescence for ischemic bowel disease showed that this methodology is a safe and feasible tool in the assessment of bowel perfusion in the emergency setting. This topic should be further investigated in high quality studies.

Bone Bruises and Concomitant Meniscus and Cartilage Damage in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

(1) Background: Bone bruises in acute anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are closely linked to the occurrence of simultaneous meniscal and cartilage damage. Despite the frequent occurrence of associated injuries including bone bruises, meniscus, and cartilage damage in patients with ACL injuries, a systematic review of the relationships between the presence of bone bruises and the extent of meniscus and cartilage injuries has yet to be conducted. (2) Methods: Multiple comprehensive databases, including MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library, were searched for studies that evaluated the relationship between bone bruises and meniscus or cartilage injuries following ACL injuries. Study selection, data extraction, and meta-analysis were performed. The Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies (MINORS) was used for quality assessments, and Review Manager 5.3 was used for data analysis. (3) Results: Data were extracted from 22 studies encompassing a total of 2891 patients with ACL injuries. Among the included studies, six studies investigated the relationships between bone bruises and medial meniscus (MM) or lateral meniscus (LM) injuries, while three studies investigated the relationships between bone bruises and cartilage injuries. There were no significant correlations between the presence of bone bruises and MM injuries (relative risk (RR) = 1.32; p = 0.61). A quantitative analysis indicated that individuals with bone bruises had a 2.71-fold higher likelihood of sustaining LM injuries than those without bone bruises (RR = 2.71; p = 0.0003). The analysis confirmed a significant relationship between bone bruises and cartilage injuries (RR = 6.18; p = 0.003). (4) Conclusions: Bone bruises occur most frequently in the lateral compartment. Bone bruises resulting from ACL injuries are related to accompanying LM injuries and cartilage injuries. Knowing these associations and the frequency of injuries may allow orthopedic surgeons to promptly address ACL-related meniscus and cartilage injuries on MRI results and in future clinical practice.

Andexanet alfa versus PCC products for factor Xa inhibitor bleeding: A systematic review with meta-analysis.

Previous meta-analyses assessed andexanet alfa (AA) or prothrombin complex concentrate (PCC) products for the treatment of Factor Xa inhibitor (FXaI)-associated major bleeding. However, they did not include recent studies or assess the impact of the risk of bias. We conducted a systematic review with meta-analysis on the effectiveness of AA versus PCC products for FXaI-associated major bleeding, inclusive of the studies' risk of bias. PubMed and Embase were searched for comparative studies assessing major bleeding in patients using FXaI who received AA or PCC. We used the Methodological Index for NOn-Randomized Studies (MINORS) checklist and one question from the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal of Case Series tool to assess the risk of bias. Random-effects meta-analyses were performed to provide a pooled estimate for the effect of AA versus PCC products on hemostatic efficacy, in-hospital mortality, 30-day mortality, and thrombotic events. Low-moderate risk of bias studies were meta-analyzed separately, as well as combined with high risk of bias studies. Eighteen comparative evaluations of AA versus PCC were identified. Twenty-eight percent of the studies (n = 5) had low-moderate risk and 72% (n = 13) had a high risk of bias. Studies with low-moderate risk of bias suggested improvements in hemostatic efficacy [Odds Ratio (OR) 2.72 (95% Confidence Interval (CI): 1.15-6.44); one study], lower in-hospital mortality [OR 0.48 (95% CI: 0.38-0.61); three studies], and reduced 30-day mortality [OR 0.49 (95% CI: 0.30-0.80); two studies] when AA was used versus PCC products. When studies were included regardless of the risk of bias, pooled effects showed improvements in hemostatic efficacy [OR 1.36 (95% CI: 1.01-1.84); 12 studies] and reductions in 30-day mortality [OR 0.53 (95% CI: 0.37-0.76); six studies] for AA versus PCC. The difference in thrombotic events with AA versus PCC was not statistically significant in the low-moderate, high, or combined risk of bias groups. The evidence from low-moderate quality real-world studies suggests that AA is superior to PCC in enhancing hemostatic efficacy and reducing in-hospital and 30-day mortality. When studies are assessed regardless of the risk of bias, the pooled hemostatic efficacy and 30-day mortality risk remain significantly better with AA versus PCC.

Evaluation of Central Sensitisation in Bladder Pain Syndrome: A Systematic Review.

Bladder pain syndrome (BPS) is a debilitating condition characterised by exaggerated bladder sensations and altered bladder function. It is still unknown whether the condition is a peripheral sensory problem or due to abnormal central sensory processing as seen in central sensitisation. This systematic review, which followed a published and Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews-registered protocol (CRD42021229962), is aimed at establishing the scope of central sensitisation in patients with BPS to aid optimal management and treatment. Four databases were searched, and appraisal of the identified studies was conducted by two independent reviewers based on eligibility criteria: patients with BPS being investigated for central sensitisation with or without comparison of controls, English-language articles, full text and publication in a peer-reviewed journal. The Methodological Index for non-Randomised Studies was used to determine study quality. We identified 763 papers in total, with 15 studies included in the final analysis. All studies were observational and had a low risk of bias. Measures included in the evaluation of CS were questionnaires, urodynamics, and quantitative sensory testing methods. There was evidence of central sensitisation in patients with BPS in all papers evaluated (15 out of 15). In addition, more significant central sensitisation correlated with severe disease presentation (3 out of 3 papers) and concomitant chronic pain conditions (5 out of 5 papers). Central sensitisation plays an integral role in BPS patient pathology. Many secondary measures are used to evaluate this condition. Stratification of patients based on their pathology (peripheral, central or a combination of the two) will aid in implementing an individualised management strategy.

Mapping the Evidence on the Impact of mHealth Interventions on Patient-Reported Outcomes in Patients With Breast Cancer: A Systematic Review.

To comprehensively synthesize the existing evidence concerning mHealth interventions for patients with breast cancer (BC). On July 30, 2023, we searched PubMed, PsycINFO, and Google Scholar for articles using the following inclusion criteria: evaluation of mHealth interventions in patients with cancer, at least 30 participants with BC, randomized control trials or prospective pre-post studies, determinants of health (patient-reported outcomes [PROs] and quality of life [QoL]) as primary outcomes, interventions lasting at least 8 weeks, publication after January 2015. Publications were excluded if they evaluated telehealth or used web-based software for desktop devices only. The quality of the included studies was analyzed with the Cochrane Collaboration Risk of Bias Tool and the Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies. We included 30 studies (20 focused on BC), encompassing 5,691 patients with cancer (median 113, IQR, 135.5). Among these, 3,606 had BC (median 99, IQR, 75). All studies contained multiple interventions, including physical activity, tailored information for self-management of the disease, and symptom tracker. Interventions showed better results on self-efficacy (3/3), QoL (10/14), and physical activity (5/7). Lifestyle programs (3/3), expert consulting (4/4), and tailored information (10/11) yielded the best results. Apps with interactive support had a higher rate of positive findings, while interventions targeted to survivors showed worse results. mHealth tools were not available to the public in most of the studies (17/30). mHealth interventions yielded heterogeneous results on different outcomes. Identifying lack of evidence on clinical scenarios (eg, patients undergoing systemic therapy other than chemotherapy) could aid in refining strategic planning for forthcoming research endeavors within this field.

Outcomes of Early Versus Delayed Manipulation Under Anesthesia for Stiffness Following Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BackgroundStiffness following total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is often treated with manipulation under anesthesia (MUA). However, there is debate regarding the timing of MUA, with many recommending against MUA beyond three months after TKA. Therefore, the purpose of this systematic review was to evaluate the functional and clinical outcomes of early versus delayed manipulation under anesthesia (MUA) for stiffness following total knee arthroplasty (TKA). MethodsA search following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines was performed in the PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Cochrane databases in November 2023. Data regarding study characteristics, demographics, knee flexion and extension, patient-reported outcomes (PROs), complications, and revisions. A quality assessment was performed using the Methodological Index for Non-randomized Studies. Included were fourteen studies analyzing 13,445 knees, 72.1% of which underwent early MUA and 27.8% of which underwent delayed MUA. Of the 14 studies, ten defined early MUA as being performed within three months of the index TKA. ResultsPre- and post-MUA knee flexion for the early/delayed groups was 71.3°/77.9° and 103.0°/96.1°, respectively. Upon meta-analysis, pre-MUA knee flexion was significantly higher in the delayed group (P = 0.003), whereas post-MUA flexion was similar in both groups (P = 0.36). The mean gain in knee flexion for the early and delayed groups was 32.0°/19.2°. The surgical complication and revision TKA rates for the early and delayed groups were 4.9%/10.3% and 5%/9%, respectively. A meta-analysis found the risk of surgical or medical complications and revision TKA to be significantly higher in the delayed MUA group (P < 0.00001 and = 0.002, respectively). ConclusionsThough post-MUA knee flexion was similar in patients undergoing early and delayed MUA following TKA, the mean gain in flexion for early patients was nearly double that of delayed patients. Delayed patients also had significantly higher risks of surgical or medical complications and revision TKA following MUA.

Changing the definition of treatment success alters treatment outcomes in periprosthetic joint infection: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract. Background: Variability in the definition of treatment success poses difficulty when assessing the reported efficacy of treatments for hip and knee periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). To address this problem, we determined how definitions of PJI treatment success have changed over time and how this has affected published rates of success after one-stage and two-stage treatments for hip and knee PJI. Methods: A systematic review following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines was conducted to identify one-stage and two-stage revision hip and knee PJI publications in major databases (2006–2021). Definition of treatment success, based on Musculoskeletal Infection Society tier criteria, was identified for each study. Publication year, number of patients, minimum follow-up, and study quality were also recorded. The association of success definitions and treatment success rate was measured using multi-variable meta-regression. Results: Study quality remained unchanged in the 245 publications included. Over time, no antibiotics (tier 1) and no further surgery (tier 3) (40.7 % and 54.5 %, respectively) became the two dominant criteria. After controlling for type of surgery, study quality, study design, follow-up, and year of publication, studies with less strict success definitions (tier 3) reported slightly higher odds ratios of 1.05 [1.01, 1.10] (p=0.009) in terms of treatment success rates compared to tier 1. Conclusions: PJI researchers have gravitated towards tier-1 and tier-3 definitions of treatment success. While studies with stricter definitions had lower PJI treatment success, the clinical significance of this is unclear. Study quality, reflected in the methodological index for non-randomized studies (MINORS) score, did not improve. We advocate for improving PJI study quality, including clarification of the definition of treatment success.

Distal femoral replacement for the treatment of periprosthetic distal femoral fractures around a total knee arthroplasty: a meta-analysis.

Periprosthetic fracture is a rare complication of arthroplasty but can have devastating consequences for the patient and presents a complex surgical challenge. Locking compression plate and retrograde intramedullary nail are both widely accepted surgical fixation techniques for distal femoral periprosthetic fractures around a total knee arthroplasty. Although there is still a need for further high-quality research into both techniques, there is even less literature concerning the use of distal femoral replacement to treat distal femoral periprosthetic fractures. Interest has been piqued in distal femoral replacements for the treatment of distal femoral periprosthetic fractures due to the theoretical advantages of immediate post-operative weight-bearing and lack of dependence on fracture union, but there are still understandably reservations about performing such an extensive and invasive procedure when an accepted alternative is available. This meta-analysis aims to evaluate the current literature to compare the complication rates and return to pre-operative ambulatory status of distal femoral replacement and locking compression plate. A literature search was performed to identify articles related to the management of distal femoral periprosthetic fractures around a total knee arthroplasty in adherence to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) checklist. Methodological quality was assessed using the methodological index for non-randomized studies (MINORS) criteria. Articles were reviewed, and data extracted for analysis. Five articles met the inclusion criteria, reporting on 345 periprosthetic fractures. The overall rates of complications for distal femoral replacement and locking compression plate were: re-operation (6.1% vs 12.1%), infection (3.0% vs 5.3%), mortality (19.7% vs 19.3%), and return to pre-operative ambulatory status (60.9% vs 71.8%) (respectively). This meta-analysis shows no statistically significant difference in the rates of re-operation, infection, mortality or return to pre-operative ambulatory status when comparing distal femoral replacement to locking compression plate.

Outcomes of different perioperative management strategies of patients on chronic anticoagulation in elective total hip and knee arthroplasty: a systematic review.

There are currently different management guidelines for patients undergoing elective total hip arthroplasty (THA) or total knee arthroplasty (TKA) that are on long-term anticoagulation. The timing of discontinuation and restarting the anticoagulation is challenging during the postoperative care, which often involves general practitioners and physiotherapists. The systematic review followed the PRISMA guidelines and included 3 databases: PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Web of Science Core Collection. It was registered in the International Prospective Register for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis (PROSPERO) under the registration number: CRD42023408906. The risk of bias assessment was performed using the Methodological index for non-randomized studies (MINORS) criteria. Six retrospective studies involving 727 patients with therapeutic anticoagulation (1,540 controls) for elective THA, TKA and revision arthroplasty have been included. The follow-up ranged from 30 days to 1 year postoperatively. All studies evaluated outcomes of warfarin therapeutic anticoagulation versus prophylactic dosages of one or more of the following: warfarin, aspirin, low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) and unfractionated low-dose heparin (UFH). One study did not discontinue therapeutic anticoagulation. Two studies reported no significant differences in complications between groups, whilst 3 studies had significantly higher rates of superficial wound infections, revision surgeries, postoperative haematomas, and prosthetic joint infections (PJI). Different anticoagulation-related perioperative management strategies achieve different outcomes following elective arthroplasty in patients with therapeutic chronic anticoagulation. There is contradictory evidence regarding the need for the discontinuation of therapeutic warfarin. Retrospective data showed that individual risk stratification with multi-modal prophylaxis resulted in minimal complications. Systematic Review of Level III studies.

A systematic review, meta-analysis, and meta-regression amalgamating the driven approaches used to quantify dynamic cerebral autoregulation.

Numerous driven techniques have been utilized to assess dynamic cerebral autoregulation (dCA) in healthy and clinical populations. The current review aimed to amalgamate this literature and provide recommendations to create greater standardization for future research. The PubMed database was searched with inclusion criteria consisting of original research articles using driven dCA assessments in humans. Risk of bias were completed using Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network and Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies. Meta-analyses were conducted for coherence, phase, and gain metrics at 0.05 and 0.10 Hz using deep-breathing, oscillatory lower body negative pressure (OLBNP), sit-to-stand maneuvers, and squat-stand maneuvers. A total of 113 studies were included, with 40 of these incorporating clinical populations. A total of 4126 participants were identified, with younger adults (18-40 years) being the most studied population. The most common techniques were squat-stands (n = 43), deep-breathing (n = 25), OLBNP (n = 20), and sit-to-stands (n = 16). Pooled coherence point estimates were: OLBNP 0.70 (95%CI:0.59-0.82), sit-to-stands 0.87 (95%CI:0.79-0.95), and squat-stands 0.98 (95%CI:0.98-0.99) at 0.05 Hz; and deep-breathing 0.90 (95%CI:0.81-0.99); OLBNP 0.67 (95%CI:0.44-0.90); and squat-stands 0.99 (95%CI:0.99-0.99) at 0.10 Hz. This review summarizes clinical findings, discusses the pros/cons of the 11 unique driven techniques included, and provides recommendations for future investigations into the unique physiological intricacies of dCA.

A Systemic Review of Adolescent Supracondylar Fractures: What Is the Surgical Treatment, Open Reduction With Internal Fixation (ORIF) or Closed Reduction With Percutaneous Pinning (CRPP)?

Supracondylar humerus (SCH) fractures represent the most frequent elbow injury in young children. These fractures can be treated through either closed reduction with percutaneous pinning (CRPP) or open reduction with internal fixation (ORIF). Yet, the optimal treatment option for adolescents remains unclear. This research contrasts the results of CRPP and ORIF treatments for distal humerus fractures in adolescents. In June 2023, we conducted a comprehensive search of PUBMED, OVID MEDLINE, Web of Science, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and various trial registries without any time restrictions. We evaluated the quality of qualifying studies using the Methodological Index for Non-randomized Studies (MINORS) and Cochrane risk measures for bias. We extracted data particularly related to patient demographics, fracture details, medical procedures followed, complications encountered, and the resulting outcomes. Out of the 488 studies identified, only four satisfied the inclusion criteria. Both methods illustrated comparable outcomes in terms of range of motion, averaging approximately 118 degrees in the ORIF group versus a span of 114 to 128 degrees in the CRPP group. The immobilization period varied, spanning 10 to 13 days for ORIF versus 24 to 29 days for CRPP. Despite this, CRPP displayed a decreased necessity for additional surgery. Notably, one study indicated a higher frequency of heterotopic ossification within the ORIF group. This review indicates that both CRPP and ORIF are effective for treating supracondylar fractures in adolescents, yielding similar results. However, CRPP has a lower need for follow-up surgery. Future studies with larger sample sizes are needed to solidify these findings, providing stronger guidance for treatment.

Flow-Diverting Devices in the Treatment of Vertebral Artery Aneurysms: Insights into Efficacy and Safety from a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

The objective of this study is to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis aimed at evaluating the efficacy and safety of flow-diverting devices (FDs) treatment for intracranial vertebral artery (VA) aneurysms. We searched PubMed, Web of Science, OVID, and Embase for English-language studies up to February 2024 and included clinical studies on FD treatment of intracranial VA aneurysms. Sensitivity analysis evaluated outcome stability. Of 2273 articles, 29 studies involving 541 aneurysms treated with FDs were included. Based on the Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies (MINORS), six were high-quality and 23 moderate quality. FD treatment showed a 95% rate of favorable clinical outcomes (95% CI, 89-99%), 81% (95% CI, 74-88%) complete aneurysmal occlusion, 4% (95% CI, 2-7%) ischemic complication incidence, 1% (95% CI, 0-3%) hemorrhagic complication incidence, 95% (95% CI, 87-100%) posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA) preservation, and 6% (95% CI, 3-10%) in-stent stenosis or occlusion across clinical and angiographic follow-up periods of 13.62months (95% CI, 10.72-16.52) and 11.85months (95% CI, 9.36-14.33), respectively. Subgroup analyses, based on a 12-month angiographic follow-up threshold, indicated no statistically significant differences in rates of complete aneurysm occlusion, PICA preservation, or in-stent stenosis or occlusion incidence (p > 0.05) between subgroups. Moreover, significant differences were observed in clinical and angiographic outcomes between ruptured and unruptured aneurysms, particularly in hemorrhagic complications (p < 0.05), without significant disparity in ischemic complications (p > 0.05). The results' stability was confirmed via sensitivity analysis. FDs treatment for VA aneurysms is efficacious and safe, offering high rates of positive clinical and angiographic outcomes with minimal complications, underscoring FDs' viability as a treatment option for VA aneurysms. The study was registered with PROSPERO (registration number: CRD42024499894).

Comparison of different interposition techniques after surgical resection of tarsal coalitions in children: a systematic review.

In the surgical treatment of tarsal coalitions, it is unclear whether interposition material should be used to prevent recurrence. The aim of this review was to systematically examine the results of different interposition tissues after surgical resection of tarsal coalitions in children. A systematic review was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Two independent investigators systematically searched electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane) and included original articles reporting outcomes of tarsal coalition resection. The quality of included studies was assessed using the Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies (MINORS) criteria. Out of 294 articles, 21 studies examining 436 patients (581 feet), were included. The mean age was 12.2 years (range 7-18). There were 153 talocalcaneal, 425 calcaneonavicular, 2 naviculocuboidal, and 1 naviculocuneiform coalitions. The mean follow-up time was 58 months (range 12-276). In 96 feet, solely resection was performed. Resection and interposition were performed with muscle/tendon (n = 178), fat graft (n = 176), other material (n = 36), or a combination of interposition techniques (n = 95). Eighteen studies reported on recurrence, which was found in 45 of 485 feet (9%). The highest recurrence (17%) was described after muscle/tendon interposition for calcaneonavicular coalitions. However, a statistical comparison could not be performed. The included studies were diverse and the scientific quality was generally low (MINORS mean 7, range 3-20). Coalition resection with various interposition techniques results in low recurrence rates. It is unclear which interposition material shows the best results.

Transcranial Doppler Ultrasound and Concussion-Supplemental Symptoms with Physiology: A Systematic Review.

Sport-related concussion (SRC) can impair the cerebrovasculature both acutely and chronically. Transcranial Doppler (TCD) ultrasound assessment has the potential to illuminate the mechanisms of impairment and provide an objective evaluation of SRC. The current systematic review investigated studies employing TCD ultrasound assessment of intracranial arteries across three broad categories of cerebrovascular regulation: neurovascular coupling (NVC), cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR), and dynamic cerebral autoregulation (dCA). The current review was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) database (CRD42021275627). The search strategy was applied to PubMed, as this database indexes all biomedical journals. Original articles on TCD for athletes with medically diagnosed SRC were included. Title/abstract and full-text screening were completed by three authors. Two authors completed data extraction and risk of bias using the Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies and Scottish Intercollegiate Guideline Network checklists. Of the 141 articles identified, 14 met the eligibility criteria. One article used an NVC challenge, eight assessed CVR, and six investigated dCA. Methodologies varied widely among studies, and results were heterogeneous. There was evidence of cerebrovascular impairment in all three domains roughly 2 days post-SRC, but the magnitude and recovery of these impairments were not clear. There was evidence that clinical symptom resolution occurred before cerebrovascular function, indicating that physiological deficits may persist despite clinical recovery and return to play. Collectively, this emphasizes an opportunity for the use of TCD to illuminate the cerebrovascular deficits caused by SRC. It also highlights that there is need for consistent methodological rigor when employing TCD in a SRC population.

Epilepsy surgery in adults older than 50 years: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Despite the general safety and efficacy of epilepsy surgery, there is evidence that epilepsy surgery remains underutilized. Although there are an increasing number of studies reporting epilepsy surgery in older adults, there is no consensus on whether epilepsy surgery is efficacious or safe for this population. Our objective was to systematically assess the efficacy as well as safety of resective surgery in people aged 50 years or older with drug-resistant epilepsy. We considered studies that examine the efficacy and safety of epilepsy surgery in adults aged 50 years and older. Study eligibility was limited to studies carried out after 1990, with a minimum of 10 participants and 6 months of follow-up. We searched the following databases for published studies: Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid Embase, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, PsychInfo, and Web of Science Conference Proceedings Citation Index - Science. The risk of bias of each included study was independently assessed by two reviewers using the MINORS (Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies) instrument. Eleven case series and 14 cohort studies met the criteria for inclusion, for a total of 1111 older adults who underwent epilepsy surgery along with 4111 adults younger than 50 years as control groups. The pooled cumulative incidence of older adults achieving seizure freedom after resective surgery was 70.1% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 65.3-74.7). There was no evident difference in the incidence of seizure freedom among older adults as compared to younger adults (risk ratio [RR] = 1.05, 95% CI = .97-1.14) in cohort studies. The pooled cumulative incidence of perioperative complications in older adults was 26.2% (95% CI = 21.3-31.7). Among them, 7.5% (95% CI = 5.8-9.5) experienced major complications. Older adults were significantly more at risk of experiencing any complication than younger adults (RR = 2.8, 95% CI = 1.5-5.4). Despite important considerations, epilepsy surgery may be considered appropriate among carefully selected individuals older than 50 years.

Effects of accommodation on geometrical parameters of human lens: A systematic review and meta-analysis

PurposeTo investigate the effects of accommodation on the geometrical parameters of human lens. MethodsEight databases from inception to November 2023 were used for the literature search: CNKI, CBM, VIP, Wan-Fang, PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library. The Methodological Index for Non-randomized Studies was used to assess the risk of bias. The PRISMA were followed and the following outcomes were taken into consideration: lens diameter (LD), lens thickness (LT), anterior curvature radius (ACR), posterior curvature radius (PCR), lens center position (LCP), and total cross-sectional area (TCSA). This systematic review was registered on an international platform for registered systematic reviews and meta-analysis (INPLASY202260085). ResultsA total of 19 studies were included. LT increased by 0.04 mm/D (18 studies; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.03–0.06; I2 = 96.6%; P < 0.001). At the same time, LD, ACR, and PCR decreased by 0.06 mm/D (6 studies; 95%CI, −0.07–0.05; I2 = 50.1%; P < 0.001), 0.53 mm/D (8 studies; 95%CI, −0.64–0.41; I2 = 96.5%; P < 0.001), and 0.14 mm/D (9 studies; 95%CI, −0.19–0.09; I2 = 94.7%; P < 0.001) during accommodation, respectively. Moreover, LCP shifted forward by 0.01 mm/D (3 studies; 95%CI, −0.02–0.00; I2 = 0.0%; P < 0.001), and TCSA by 0.58 mm2/D (2 studies; 95%CI, 0.41–1.57; I2 = 97.0%; P = 0.457) during accommodation. ConclusionsChanges in LT, LD, ACR, PCR and LCP supported Helmholtz's theory. Different apparatuses or measurement methods influenced the measurement of lens geometrical parameters.

Dual-Mobility Cups in Patients Undergoing Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty with Prior Lumbar Spine Fusion: A Systematic Review

Spine and hip abnormalities frequently occur together in most of the orthopedic population; therefore, both of these abnormalities impact the outcomes of the modalities that are being used. Few studies have reported reduced dislocation and revision rates with the use of dual-mobility cups (DMCs) in high-risk lumbar spine fusion (LSF) patients undergoing primary total hip arthroplasty (THA). This study aims to clarify the relationship between pre-existing lumbar spinal fusion and the outcomes of THA with dual-mobility constructs. We systematically reviewed the current literature through several online databases following PRISMA protocol and the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. We used the methodological index for non-randomized studies (MINORS) to evaluate the methodological quality of the included trials. Four studies examined the feasibility and effectiveness of dual-mobility cups in patients undergoing primary THA with prior LSF. Two studies were conducted in the United States, while the other two originated in Finland and France, respectively. The included studies enrolled 284 patients. Most of these patients had instrumented fusions. Seventy-eight percent of patients received one- or two-level fusions. The average age across the studies was 68.22 and the mean body mass index was 28. No cases of postoperative DMC implant dislocations were identified. The incidence of postoperative complications was 6% (10/173), including deep venous thrombosis, periprosthetic loosening, infection, and fracture, greater trochanteric fracture, and superficial wound infections. Most included studies had some methodological limitations, with an average MINORS score of 10.5 ± 5.8. The use of dual-mobility cups in these high-risk patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty may lead to reduced dislocation rates and postoperative complications. Further long-term follow-up studies are warranted to support these findings.

Promising Directions: A Systematic Review of Psychosocial and Behavioral Interventions with Cultural Incorporation for Advanced and Metastatic Cancer.

Improving quality of life (QOL) in advanced and metastatic cancer is a priority with increasing survivorship. This systematic review synthesizes psychosocial and behavioral interventions incorporating culture with the goal of examining their benefit for understudied and medically underserved populations with advanced and metastatic cancer. Reports were systematically screened for (1) a focus on advanced and metastatic cancer survivors, (2) psychosocial or behavioral intervention intended to improve QOL, (3) evidence of incorporating the culture(s) of understudied/underserved populations, and (4) availability in English. Bias was evaluated using the JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist and the Methodological index for non-randomized studies. Qualitative synthesis and quantitative meta-analyses were completed. Eighty-six reports containing 5981 participants' data were examined. Qualitative synthesis of 23 studies identified four overarching themes relevant for incorporating culture in interventions. Meta-analysis of 19 RCTs and 4 quasi-experimental studies containing considerable heterogeneity indicated greater improvements in QOL (g = 0.84), eudaimonic well-being (g = 0.53), distress (g = -0.49), and anxiety (g = -0.37) for main intervention conditions compared to controls. Meta-analysis of 10 single-arm trials containing minimal to moderate heterogeneity found benefit for anxiety (g = -0.54), physical symptoms (g = -0.39), and depression (g = -0.38). Psychosocial and behavioral interventions with cultural incorporation appear beneficial for improving QOL-related outcomes in advanced and metastatic cancer. Studies incorporating culture in psychosocial or behavioral interventions offer noteworthy insight and suggestions for future efforts such as attending to deep cultural structure.