Forest Plots Research Articles

Outcomes of the effect of exercise on cognitive function in patients with depression: A meta-analysis.

Major depressive disorder is a common mental disorder, characterized by a high rate of suicide and recurrence, which is frequently accompanied by cognitive impairments, particularly in executive function, memory, attention, and information processing speed. As such, improving the cognitive function in patients with depression and enhancing their quality of life are urgent issues. To perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of the effects of exercise on cognitive function in patients with depression. The PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Embase, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang Medical, VIP, and Biomedical Databases for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) databases were searched (from inception to October 19, 2023) for studies investigating improvements in cognitive function in patients with depression through exercise. Tools recommended by the Cochrane Handbook for RCT evaluation, and GRADEpro and Stata17 software, were employed for risk of bias assessment, evidence grading, forest plot construction, subgroup and sensitivity analyses, and assessment of publication bias. Seventeen RCTs (1173 patients with depression) were included. Exercise had a small but significant positive effect on attention, with an effect size of 0.21, 95%CI: 0.07-0.34, P < 0.01. Specifically, aerobic exercise regimens of 30-60 minute/session, thrice a week, at moderate intensity, and sustained over 3-12 weeks, were associated with the most pronounced benefits (P < 0.05), with effect sizes for executive function, memory, and information processing speed of 0.11, 95%CI: -0.11-0.32, P = 0.34; 0.08, 95%CI: 0.00-0.16, P = 0.05; and 0.14, 95%CI: 0.04-0.25, P = 0.01, respectively. The evidence levels for attention, information processing speed, and memory were rated as 'low,' whereas that for executive function was rated as 'very low'. Exercise could improve attention and information-processing speed in patients with depression, although improvements in executive function and memory are not significant.

Deoxynivalenol mycotoxin dietary exposure on broiler performance and small intestine health: A comprehensive meta-analysis

The effect of DON mycotoxins on broiler production performance and the small intestine is a critical factor in the health and well-being of broilers. Several studies have been conducted on this topic and have reported varying results and conclusions. Therefore, it is necessary to conduct systematic reviews and meta-analyses to thoroughly examine and draw unique conclusions. In this meta-analysis, we conducted a systematic review of multiple studies on the effects of DON mycotoxins in broilers. The analysis comprised 26 articles from reputable journals, and 14 parameters were identified based on the predetermined criteria. The forest plot results showed that DON treatment significantly reduced the ADFI and ADWG (SMD-1.50, 95 %CI [-1.68, -1.18]; I2= 51 %; p < 0.00001) and affected FCR (SMD 0.95, 95 %CI [ 0.62, 1.28]; I2= 77; p < 0.00001). In addition, it affects the small intestine structure duodenum (SMD -3.46, 95 %CI [-3.88, -3.05]; I2= 48 %; p < 0.00001), Jejunum (SMD -5.35, 95 %CI [-5.86, -4.83]; I2= 62 %; p < 0.00001), Ileum (SMD -2.6, 95 % CI [-3.12, -2.08]; I2= 82 %; p < 0.00001). Furthermore, DON exposure affects immunoglobulin (SMD -1.92, 95 % CI [ -2.39, -1.46]; I2 = 54 %; p < 0.00001) and antioxidant activities (SMD -2.1, 95 % CI [ -2.45, -1.75]; I2= 47 %; p < 0.00001). The overall effect of DON treatment was statistically significant compared with that of the control group. Furthermore, funnel plot analysis for publication bias did not reveal any significant asymmetry in most included studies. The results of this meta-analysis indicate that DON mycotoxins have a significant impact on both production performance and small intestine health and require strategic intervention.

C-reactive Protein (CRP) in Patients With Myocarditis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Myocarditis is a type of cardiovascular disease related to inflammation of cardiac muscle which can be even fatal to some extent. Early and simple diagnosis is crucial for this complication; however, complexor machine-based methods, such as histological tests, x-rays, electrocardiograms, etc., are usually used for its detection. C-reactive protein (CRP) is a biomarker that naturally elevates during inflammation. Therefore, we tried to understand the correlation between CRP and myocarditis. We primarily identified 451 studies from PubMed, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect and ultimately selected four studies as eligible. We identified the mean difference (MD) in CRP levels between the myocarditis patients and healthy controls. The study quality, outliers, sensitivity, significance, and heterogeneity were also checked. The MD (6.03 (95%CI: 2.41-9.64), p<0.00001) corresponds to a higher and significant CRP level in myocarditis as compared to the control group. The study quality was found to be high with no bias or outliers and the heterogeneity was also determined to be high (I2=99%). Using the fixed effect model, the forest plot determined a similar result as the main outcome (MD: 5.08 (95%CI: 4.85-5.32)) proving higher sensitivity and reproducibility.These findings indicated the possibility of CRP being an established biomarker for an accurate diagnosis and prognosis of myocarditis.

Predictive value of triglyceride glucose index in acute kidney injury in patients with severe traumatic brain injury

Background At present, the relationship between the Triglyceride-glucose index (TyG index) and Acute kidney injury (AKI) in traumatic brain injury patients in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) is still unclear. Currently, the relationship between TyG index and AKI occurred within 7 days in the ICU is a highly researched and trending topic. Objective In this study, we conducted in-depth exploration of the relationship between the development of AKI in traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients in the ICU and changes in TyG index, as well as its relevance. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted with a total of 492 individuals enrolled in the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV(MIMIC-IV) database. Multivariate model logistic regression, smoothed curve fitting and forest plots were utilized to confirm the study objectives. The predictive power of the TyG index for outcome indicators was assessed using subject work characteristics (ROC) curves. As well as comparing the Integrated Discriminant Improvement Index and the Net Reclassification Index of the traditional forecasting model with the addition of the TyG index. Results Of all eligible subjects, 55.9% were male and the incidence of AKI was 59.3%. There was a statistically significant difference in the incidence of AKI within 7 days in the ICU between the different TyG index groups. The difference between TyG index and the risk of AKI within 7 days in the ICU remained significant after adjustment for logistic multifactorial modeling (OR = 2.07, 95% CI = 1.41–3.05, P < 0.001). A similar pattern of associations was observed in subgroup analyses (P values for all interactions were greater than 0.05). The addition of TyG index to the traditional risk factor model improved the predictive power of the risk of AKI within 7 days in ICU (P < 0.05). Conclusion The findings of this study demonstrate a strong association between the TyG index and the occurrence of AKI within 7 days in ICU patients. The TyG index can potentially be used as a risk stratification tool for early identification and prevention of AKI. Implementing preventive strategies targeting patients with a high TyG index may help reduce the burden of AKI in the ICU. Further prospective studies are warranted to validate these findings and explore the clinical utility of the TyG index in AKI prevention.

Failure of early neurological improvement can predict futile recanalization after successful interventional recanalization of anterior circulation tandem lesions

PurposeTo explore whether the failure of early neurological improvement can predict futile recanalization after successful interventional recanalization of anterior circulation tandem lesions. Patients and methodsA retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical data of patients who received successful interventional recanalization treatment of anterior circulation tandem lesions from January 2019 to November 2023. The failure of early neurological improvement is defined as a decrease of less than 4 points in NIHSS score compared to preoperative score at 24 h after surgery. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS 26.0 software, and a forest plot and Receiver Operating Characteristic curve related to futile recanalization were drawn. ResultsA total of 120 patients received successful interventional recanalization of anterior circulation tandems lesion were included, including 68 cases of futile recanalization (56.67 %) and 52 cases of effective recanalization (43.33 %). The rate of failure of early neurological improvement in the futile recanalization group was higher than that in the effective recanalization group (94.12 % vs 34.62 %, P < 0.001). After adjusting for confounding factors, the rate of failure of early neurological improvement in the futile recanalization group was higher than that in the effective recanalization group (adjusted OR: 39.925; 95 % CI: 4.110–387.864; P = 0.001). The area under the Receiver Operating Characteristic curve using failure of neurological improvement for predicting futile recanalization was 0.800. ConclusionFailure of early neurological improvement is an effective indicator for predicting futile recanalization after successful interventional recanalization in anterior circulation tandem lesions.

Prognostic factors for intraductal papillary neoplasm of the bile duct following surgical resection: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Intraductal papillary neoplasm of the bile duct (IPNB) is a biliary neoplasm characterized by intraductal papillary growth and varying degrees of malignant transformation. This study aimed to identify effective prognostic factors (PFs) for predicting the prognosis of IPNB after surgical resection, addressing the gap in the higher level evidence. We systematically searched databases from their inception to October 10, 2023. Data on 12 predetermined PFs were collected and subjected to a meta-analysis. Forest plots were used to summarize the findings. Fifteen studies with a total of 2311 patients were included. Among the PFs examined, extrahepatic tumor location (HR, 2.97; 95% CI 1.68-5.23), subclassification type 2 (HR, 2.62; 95% CI 1.45-4.76), R1 resection (HR, 2.47; 95% CI 1.73-3.51), elevated CA19-9 level (HR, 3.25; 95% CI 1.91-5.54), tumor multiplicity (HR, 2.65; 95% CI 1.40-5.02), and adjacent organ invasion (HR, 3.17; 95% CI 2.01-5.00) were associated with a poorer prognosis. Additionally, the combined HR values indicated that lymph node metastasis and poor tumor differentiation were linked to a worse prognosis, although both exhibited significant heterogeneity. Our study offers valuable insights for enhancing postoperative prognostication and treatment decision-making for IPNB patients with IPNB. These findings warrant further validation in future prospective studies.

Socioeconomic and behavioral factors of road traffic accidents among drivers in Ethiopia: systematic review and meta analysis

BackgroundRoad traffic accidents (RTAs) are a pressing public health issue in Ethiopia, exacerbated by rapid urbanization and motorization. Despite efforts, escalating rates persist due to various factors like human behavior and road infrastructure deficiencies. This study addresses the need for comprehensive data on RTAs in Ethiopia, aiming to uncover socioeconomic and behavioral factors to inform evidence-based policies.MethodsA systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted from March to April 2024, adhering to PRISMA guidelines. Major databases like Google Scholar, PubMed, and the Cochrane Library were searched using specific keywords related to RTAs and Ethiopia. Studies conducted between 2014 and 2024 were included, with eligibility criteria. Data extraction followed a standardized Microsoft Excel format. Study quality was assessed using the JBI checklist, with high-quality articles included. Statistical analysis, conducted using STATA version 17, included descriptive analysis, forest plots for RTA prevalence, and examination of publication bias using Egger and Begs tests. Subgroup analysis and meta-regression explored moderating factors and sources of heterogeneity.ResultsThe systematic review identified eight studies meeting inclusion criteria, conducted between 2014 and 2022. RTA prevalence was 36% (95% CI: 23; 49). Sensitivity analysis confirmed the robustness of the estimated prevalence. Publication bias was detected via Egger’s test, though Begg’s test was non-significant. Meta-regression found no significant influence of publication year or sample size on RTA prevalence. Socioeconomic factors like income level and driving experience, alongside behavioral factors like traffic rule violations and substance use, were identified as key drivers of RTAs in Ethiopia.ConclusionsThe study highlights the significant burden of road traffic accidents in Ethiopia, influenced by socioeconomic and behavioral factors. Socioeconomic factors such as income level and driving experience, along with behavioral factors like traffic rule violations and substance use, emerged as prominent determinants of RTAs. Policymakers should prioritize evidence-based interventions targeting these factors to improve road safety nationwide.

The prognostic value of myosteatosis in pancreatic cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background and aimsThe phenomenon of myosteatosis, characterized by the accumulation of ectopic fat within and surrounding skeletal muscle, has been identified as a potential adverse factor in the prognosis of individuals with cancer. This systematic review and meta-analysis sought to examine the association between myosteatosis and survival rates as well as postoperative complications in patients diagnosed with pancreatic cancer (PC). MethodsA systematic search was conducted on Web of Science, Embase, and Pubmed until March 25, 2024, to identify pertinent articles assessing the prognostic significance of myosteatosis in patients with PC, utilizing the search terms: myosteatosis, PC, and prognosis. The selected studies were utilized to investigate the prognostic impact of myosteatosis on the survival of PC patients. Forest plots and pooled effects models were employed to present the findings of this meta-analysis. The quality of the included studies was evaluated using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). A total of 565 studies were initially identified from the three databases, with 14 retrospective cohort studies ultimately included in the final quantitative analysis. ResultsThe meta-analysis revealed a significant association between myosteatosis and both overall survival (OS) [Hazard Ratio (HR): 1.55, 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 1.40-1.72, P < 0.001, I2=0.0%] and recurrence-free survival (RFS) (HR 1.48, 95% CI: 1.17-1.86, P = 0.001, I2=0.0%) in patients diagnosed with PC. Subgroup analyses revealed that myosteatosis continued to be a negative prognostic factor in PC across various treatment modalities, patient populations, and myosteatosis assessment methods. Additionally, myosteatosis was identified as a risk factor for postoperative complications, with a pooled odds ratio of 2.20 (95% CI: 1.45-3.35, P < 0.001, I2=37.5%). All included studies achieved NOS scores of 6 or higher, indicating a relatively high level of methodological quality. ConclusionThese results suggest that myosteatosis is significantly associated with both survival outcomes and postoperative complications in patients with PC.

CDP-MVS: Forest Multi-View Reconstruction with Enhanced Confidence-Guided Dynamic Domain Propagation

Using multi-view images of forest plots to reconstruct dense point clouds and extract individual tree parameters enables rapid, high-precision, and cost-effective forest plot surveys. However, images captured at close range face challenges in forest reconstruction, such as unclear canopy reconstruction, prolonged reconstruction times, insufficient accuracy, and issues with tree duplication. To address these challenges, this paper introduces a new image dataset creation process that enhances both the efficiency and quality of image acquisition. Additionally, a block-matching-based multi-view reconstruction algorithm, Forest Multi-View Reconstruction with Enhanced Confidence-Guided Dynamic Domain Propagation (CDP-MVS), is proposed. The CDP-MVS algorithm addresses the issue of canopy and sky mixing in reconstructed point clouds by segmenting the sky in the depth maps and setting its depth value to zero. Furthermore, the algorithm introduces a confidence calculation method that comprehensively evaluates multiple aspects. Moreover, CDP-MVS employs a decentralized dynamic domain propagation sampling strategy, guiding the propagation of the dynamic domain through newly defined confidence measures. Finally, this paper compares the reconstruction results and individual tree parameters of the CDP-MVS, ACMMP, and PatchMatchNet algorithms using self-collected data. Visualization results show that, compared to the other two algorithms, CDP-MVS produces the least sky noise in tree reconstructions, with the clearest and most detailed canopy branches and trunk sections. In terms of parameter metrics, CDP-MVS achieved 100% accuracy in reconstructing tree quantities across the four plots, effectively avoiding tree duplication. The accuracy of breast diameter extraction values of point clouds reconstructed by CDPMVS reached 96.27%, 90%, 90.64%, and 93.62%, respectively, in the four sample plots. The positional deviation of reconstructed trees, compared to ACMMP, was reduced by 0.37 m, 0.07 m, 0.18 m and 0.33 m, with the average distance deviation across the four plots converging within 0.25 m. In terms of reconstruction efficiency, CDP-MVS completed the reconstruction of the four plots in 1.8 to 3.1 h, reducing the average reconstruction time per plot by six minutes compared to ACMMP and by two to three times compared to PatchMatchNet. Finally, the differences in tree height accuracy among the point clouds reconstructed by the different algorithms were minimal. The experimental results demonstrate that CDP-MVS, as a multi-view reconstruction algorithm tailored for forest reconstruction, shows promising application potential and can provide valuable support for forestry surveys.

Schistosomiasis-Microbiota Interactions: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Schistosomiasis, a tropical disease affecting humans and animals, affected 251.4 million people in 2021. Schistosoma mansoni, S. haematobium, S. intercalatum, and S. japonicum are primary human schistosomes, causing tissue damage, granulomas, ulceration, hemorrhage, and opportunistic pathogen entry. The gut and urinary tract microbiota significantly impact a host's susceptibility to schistosomiasis, disrupting microbial balance; however, this relationship is not well understood. This systematic review and meta-analysis explores the intricate relationship between schistosomiasis and the host's microbiota, providing crucial insights into disease pathogenesis and management. This systematic review used PRISMA guidelines to identify peer-reviewed articles on schistosomiasis and its interactions with the host microbiome, using multiple databases and Google Scholar, providing a robust dataset for analysis. The study utilized Meta-Mar v3.5.1; descriptive tests, random-effects models, and subgroups were analyzed for the interaction between Schistosomiasis and the microbiome. Forest plots, Cochran's Q test, and Higgins' inconsistency statistic (I2) were used to assess heterogeneity. The human Schistosoma species were observed to be associated with various bacterial species isolated from blood, stool, urine, sputum, skin, and vaginal or cervical samples. A meta-analysis of the interaction between schistosomiasis and the host microbiome, based on 31 studies, showed 29,784 observations and 5871 events. The pooled estimates indicated a significant association between schistosomiasis and changes in the microbiome of infected individuals. There was considerable heterogeneity with variance effect sizes (p < 0.0001). Subgroup analysis of Schistosoma species demonstrated that S. haematobium was the most significant contributor to the overall heterogeneity, accounting for 62.1% (p < 0.01). S. mansoni contributed 13.0% (p = 0.02), and the coinfection of S. haematobium and S. mansoni accounted for 16.8% of the heterogeneity (p < 0.01), contributing to the variability seen in the pooled analysis. Similarly, praziquantel treatment (RR = 1.68, 95% CI: 1.07-2.64) showed high heterogeneity (Chi2 = 71.42, df = 11, p < 0.01) and also indicated that Schistosoma infections in males (RR = 1.46, 95% CI: 0.00 to 551.30) and females (RR = 2.09, 95% CI: 0.24 to 18.31) have a higher risk of altering the host microbiome. Schistosomiasis significantly disrupts the host microbiota across various bodily sites, leading to increased susceptibility to different bacterial taxa such as E. coli, Klebsiella, Proteus, Pseudomonas, Salmonella, Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, and Mycobacterium species (M. tuberculosis and M. leprae). This disruption enables these bacteria to produce toxic metabolites, which in turn cause inflammation and facilitate the progression of disease. The impact of schistosomiasis on the vaginal microbiome underscores the necessity for gender-specific approaches to treatment and prevention. Effective management of female genital schistosomiasis (FGS) requires addressing both the parasitic infection and the resulting microbiome imbalances. Additionally, praziquantel-treated individuals have different microbiome compositions compared to individuals with no praziquantel treatment. This suggests that combining praziquantel treatment with probiotics could potentially decrease the disease severity caused by an altered microbiome.

Rising temperatures may increase fungal epizootics in northern populations of the invasive spongy moth in North America

Insect pest species are generally expected to become more destructive with climate change because of factors such as weakened host tree defences during droughts and increased voltinism under rising temperatures; however, responses will vary by species due to a variety of factors, including altered interactions with their natural enemies. Entomopathogens are a substantial source of mortality in insects, but the likelihood of epizootics can depend strongly on climatic conditions. Previous research indicates that rates of infection of the spongy moth (Lymantria dispar) by its host-specific fungal pathogen, Entomophaga maimaiga, increase with environmental moisture and decrease as temperatures rise. High temperatures may have direct and indirect (due to the associated drying) effects on the fungus, but the interactive effects between temperature and moisture level on larval infection are unclear. Here, we test the hypothesis that warmer, drier conditions will decrease rates of infection of spongy moth larvae by E. maimaiga. We evaluated the effects of precipitation and temperature on larval mortality caused by E. maimaiga with a manipulative field experiment, conducted in one of the northernmost and coldest parts of the spongy moth’s non-native range in North America. We caged laboratory-reared spongy moth larvae in experimentally warmed open-air forest plots, exposing the larvae to soil inoculated with E. maimaiga resting spores during two consecutive trials. Caged larvae were exposed to three temperature treatments — ambient, 1.7 °C above ambient and 3.4 °C above ambient — and either supplemental precipitation (+173 mm per trial) or ambient precipitation. Opposite to our hypothesis, there was no significant effect of supplemental precipitation, nor an interaction between precipitation and temperature. There was, however, a significant positive effect of increasing temperature on the number of larvae infected. On average, in each respective trial, larval infection increased by 44% and 50% under the elevated temperature treatments compared to ambient temperature. Experimental warming may have increased infections because ambient temperatures at the field site were suboptimal for fungal germination. The results from this experiment suggest that, in colder portions of the spongy moth’s invasive range, increasing temperatures due to climate change may enhance the ability of E. maimaiga to help control populations of the spongy moth.

Effects of Different Land Uses and Slope on Runoff and Soil Loss on the Loess Plateau of China

ABSTRACTThe Loess Plateau has one of the most serious areas of soil erosion in China; therefore, studying the effect of soil and water conservation measures on the erosion of loess soil slopes is important for land management and agricultural development. This study is based on 5 years of field runoff observations and rainfall data from 2015 to 2019. Correlation and regression analyses were used to study the runoff and sediment production of loess soil and its relationship with rainfall, slope and land use. The results show that &gt; 80% of the erosive rainfall occurs mainly in July to August in the area. Runoff and soil loss from the plots differed substantially, depending on land use, soil conservation measures and slope degree. Bare plots experienced the highest soil loss rate of over 27 t/ha with higher runoff depth, followed by cultivated plots (4.55 t/ha), grass plots (0.43 t/ha), shrub plots (0.35 t/ha) and forest plots (0.13 t/ha). Among the four soil and water conservation measures, the runoff and sediment reduction benefits of forest and shrub plots were the highest. The runoff reduction benefit fluctuated at approximately 0.8, and the benefit of sediment reduction was ≈1. The overall performance was forest &gt; shrubland &gt; grassland &gt; cultivated land &gt; bare land, and the benefits of sediment reduction were greater than those of runoff reduction. Forests had the highest soil retention capacity on slopes from 5° to 25°, and forests on gentle slopes had the best water storage capacity. Shrub plots had the best water storage capacity when they were on steep slopes. Rainfall erosion forces were significantly and positively correlated (p &lt; 0.01) with runoff depth and soil loss, making it the most significant rainfall indicator of sediment production. Under the same rainfall conditions, soil and water conservation measures are still required on bare slopes, land use is the main control factor for slope sediment production, and appropriate land use can greatly reduce the threat of slopes in terms of soil erosion. This study shows that soil and water conservation measures are imperative to prevent runoff and soil loss, especially for bare land without any measures; on steep slopes, a vegetation combination primarily featuring shrubs is expected to achieve greater benefits in reducing runoff and sediment. This study can provide a scientific basis for the management of vegetation measures and the implementation of soil and water conservation measures on loess soil slopes.

Prevalence and distribution of human papillomavirus genotypes in women with abnormal cervical cytology in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Cervical cancer is the 4th most common cancer in women globally. Determining the prevalence of the high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) and low-risk (LR-HPV) genotypes and the distribution in abnormal cervical cytology will be essential in a future population-based cervical cancer prevention program. Primary studies with women with abnormal cervical cytology were systematically searched for in Medline, CINHAL, Google Scholar, African Journal Online, and the University of Antwerp repository from 19-30 May 2023. A weighted inverse-variance random effects model was used. Variations across the studies were checked using a forest plot, I2 statistics, and Egger's test. Group analysis was performed for evidence of heterogeneity. The pooled prevalence of human papillomavirus (HPV) genotypes with abnormal cervical cytology of a precancerous cervical lesion was 38.74% (95% CI: 27.56-49.93). The leading pooled prevalence estimates by subgroup analysis were 18% (95% CI: 13-26), 14% (95% CI: 111-16), and 66% (51-79) for women with retroviral infection (RVI), DNA genotyping with amplification, and central parts of Ethiopia respectively. There were 25 HPV variants identified by genotyping techniques with the five most prevalent HPV genotypes being HPV-16 and HPV-18 coexisting at 54%; HPV-16 alone at 29%; HPV-51 at 16%; HPV-52 at 13%; and HPV-31 and HPV-33 each contributing approximately 12%. The pooled prevalence of HPV genotypes was higher than in other countries. HPV-51, HPV-52, HPV-31, and HPV-33 are the most prevalent genotypes. Hence, the nonavalent vaccine type would be the one that includes all the most prevalent HPV genotypes, but HPV-51in Ethiopia. Additional data on similar DNA test techniques for comparisons with precancerous lesions and invasive cancer are needed. Cervical cancer prevention and control programs in Ethiopia should be aligned with the most prevalent genotypes. https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42023428955.

Vitamin D serum levels and temporomandibular disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis

ObjectiveThis systematic review evaluates the connection between vitamin D serum levels, deficiency, and temporomandibular disorders (TMD), offering a meta-analysis of the existing evidence in this domain. DesignThe Scopus, ISI Web of Science, and Pubmed databases were searched for human studies concerning the connection between vitamin D and TMD comprising a control group. A random-effect model with forest plots was used for vitamin D serum levels mean difference (MD), vitamin D deficiency odds ratio (OR), and risk difference (RD) between subjects with and without TMD. Subgroup analysis was conducted based on ethnicity, overall risk of bias, TMD diagnosis method, and study designs. A p-value lower than 0.05 was considered significant. The certainty of the meta-evidence was evaluated according to the GRADE approach. ResultsOf the 2621 identified unique records, 15 studies were included in the study, eight of which were considered for the meta-analysis. The meta-analysis revealed a significant vitamin D deficiency OR (3.85; 95 % CI: 2.35 – 5.43; Certainty: Low) and RD (22 %; 95 % CI: 11 % - 32 %; Certainty: Very low), and vitamin D serum levels MD (-5.03 ng/mL; 95 % CI: −9.92 – −0.13; Certainty: Very low) between subjects with and without TMD. Among subgroup analyses, only the difference in vitamin D MD between Middle Eastern and European patients was significant (P < 0.01). ConclusionConsidering the low to very low certainty of the evidence, vitamin D serum levels are significantly lower, and vitamin D deficiency is significantly more prevalent in TMD patients.

Effect of immediate dentin sealing on the fracture strength of indirect posterior restorations:Systematic review and meta-anlysis protocol.

Background Immediate Dentin Sealing (IDS) is a technique that applies an adhesive layer immediately after tooth preparation, prior to the placement of indirect restorations. This method is gaining attention due to its potential to improve the bond strength and mechanical properties of restorations, particularly in the posterior region where restorations endure significant masticatory forces. The objectif of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to evaluate the effect of IDS on the fracture strength of indirect posterior restorations. Methods Following PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive literature search was conducted in four databases: Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and PubMed. Inclusion criteria focused on in vitro studies involving human teeth with indirect posterior restorations, published between 2014 and 2023. Studies using IDS were compared to those using conventional methods. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration’s tool, and a meta-analysis was performed with a random-effects model. The standard mean difference and 95% confidence intervals were calculated to compare fracture strength, with I2 statistics assessing heterogeneity. Forest and funnel plots were employed to visualize results and publication bias, respectively. Discussion The results indicate that IDS generally enhances the fracture strength of indirect posterior restorations, particularly with ceramic materials like lithium disilicate. However, the effectiveness of IDS varies depending on the material and restoration type. While some studies demonstrated improved fracture resistance with IDS, others showed minimal benefit, especially with composite restorations. Additionally, IDS improved marginal adaptation and internal fit but increased the risk of severe failures, such as root fractures. Systematic review registration PROSPERO: CRD42024584545 (Registered on 08/09/2024).

The Value of lncRNAs as a Biomarker for the Diagnosis of Gestational Diabetes: A Meta-Analysis.

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a common metabolic disorder in pregnancy and leads to serious harm to the mother and the fetus. A variety of lncRNAs play a key role in GDM. This meta-analysis was performed to explore the potential value of lncRNAs in GDM diagnosis. Articles correlated with lncRNA and GDM were screened from Embase, Medline, EBSCO, PubMed, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure, and WanFang databases. Summary receiver operator characteristic (SROC) was performed to evaluate the pooled area under curve (AUC). Forest plot was conducted to calculate the sensitivity, specificity, diagnostic likelihood ratio (LR), diagnostic score, and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR). Deeks' funnel plot was utilized to evaluate the publication bias. Eleven articles containing 12 tests (1060 GDM patients and 1066 controls) were included in this meta-analysis. AUC (0.89, 95%CI=0.86-0.92), sensitivity (0.84, 95%CI=0.80-0.87), and specificity (0.81, 95%CI=0.77-0.85)of the SROC curve showed a high diagnostic value of lncRNA for GDM. Positive LR (PLR 4.40, 95%CI=3.45-5.60) and negative LR (NLR 0.20, 95%CI=0.15-0.26) results indicated that the diagnosis of lncRNA for GDM had low clinical utility. Diagnostic score (3.09, 95%CI=2.62-3.57) and DOR (22.04, 95%CI=13.68-35.51) results suggested lncRNAs have good discriminative effect on GDM. Heterogeneity was significantly higher, but not induced by the subgroups. LncRNAs had high diagnostic value and good discriminative effect for GDM, but the clinical utility was not high. This meta-analysis study offers a potential target for GDM diagnosis.

Adipose derived or bone-marrow derived mesenchymal stem cell treatment for hyposalivation: protocol for a systematic review and network meta-analysis

BackgroundSalivary hypofunction leads to debilitating oral symptoms and has major complications for overall quality of life. Two of the most frequent causes of xerostomia are radiotherapy in the head and neck and Sjögren’s syndrome. Only symptomatic treatment is available today. An increasing number of both preclinical and clinical studies have suggested that mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) transplantation treatment can increase the salivary flow rate and ameliorate symptoms of xerostomia. However, both adipose-derived and bone marrow–derived MSCs are used, although they differ in important ways. The primary objective of this study is an indirect comparison of the change in the unstimulated salivary flow rate after intervention between patients treated with adipose-derived or bone marrow–derived MSCs.MethodsThis systematic review and network meta-analysis will search for eligible studies in the MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane CENTRAL register of Controlled Trials. Eligible studies are as follows: clinical studies including human patients with salivary hypofunction due to either radiotherapy or Sjogren’s syndrome who were subsequently treated with either adipose-derived MSCs or bone marrow–derived MSCs. Studies with no control group will be excluded. The search phrase has been peer-reviewed following the PRESS guidelines. The primary outcome is the change in the unstimulated salivary flow rate after treatment with either adipose-derived or bone marrow–derived MSCs. Secondary outcomes are as follows: change in patient reported outcomes, methods of intervention administration, number of injected MSCs, and safety. Data from included studies will be pooled and compared with a fixed-effects or random effects model dependent on signs of heterogeneity, presented with a forest plot, and indirectly compared with a meta-regression in a network meta-analysis. Risk of bias will be assessed with the tools ROBINS-I or RoB-2 depending on type of study.DiscussionBoth adipose-derived and bone marrow–derived MSCs are used today for experimental treatment of salivary hypofunction in humans as no direct or indirect comparisons have been made. Therefore, an evaluation of the effect of adipose-derived vs bone marrow–derived MSC treatment is needed to support future decision-making on the type of MSC used in a clinical trial.Systematic review registrationPROSPERO ID CRD42024527183.

Soil Respiration in Anthropogenic Disturbed Ecosystems Compared to Deciduous Forests in the Urban Industrial Area

In urban industrial area, mining activity directly affects the dynamic of carbon, and consequently, the release of carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere. The main objective of this research is to study the impact of most important abiotic environmental factors on soil respiration in post-coalmine ecosystems. The moisture and temperature of the soil, along with CO2 outflow from the soil, were measured over three consecutive seasons, using 92 samples from coalmine heaps and 10 samples from deciduous forests in the same urban industrial region. Based on a survey of 396 species, a cluster analysis distinguished all deciduous and 22 forest plots grown on coalmine heaps from herbaceous plots from same coalmine heaps. The lowest soil respiration rate (0.62 mg CO2 per hour per square meter) was recorded in the herbaceous vegetation class on coalmine heaps, compared to (0.76 mg and 0.96 mg) from coalmine-heap forests and deciduous forests, respectively. Species richness and diversity positively affected soil respiration in heap herbaceous plots, though this effect was less pronounced in forests grown on coalmine heaps and in deciduous mixed forests. Unlike soil water content, soil temperature negatively correlated with soil respiration on coalmine heaps, diverging from the well-studied positive impact of soil temperature and respiration in deciduous mixed forests. Our spatial and temporal analyses emphasize that the water content of the substrate is the most significant abiotic element that affects the soil respiration on coalmine heaps positively during early vegetation succession.

Association of Nutritional Intake with Physical Activity and Handgrip Strength in Individuals with Airflow Limitation.

We investigated whether nutritional intake is associated with physical activity (PA) and handgrip strength (HGS) in individuals with airflow limitation. This study analyzed data from the 2014 to 2016 Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. We assessed total protein intake (g/day), caloric intake (kcal/day), and other nutritional intakes using a 24-hour dietary recall questionnaire. HGS was measured three times for each hand using a digital grip strength dynamometer, and PA was assessed as health-enhancing PA. Airflow limitation was defined as a forced expiratory volume/forced vital capacity ratio of 0.7 in individuals over 40 years of age. Participants were categorized into groups based on their PA levels and HGS measurements: active aerobic PA vs. non-active aerobic PA, and normal HGS vs. low HGS. Among the 622 individuals with airflow limitation, those involved in active aerobic PA and those with higher HGS had notably higher total food, calorie, water, protein, and lipid intake. The correlations between protein and caloric intake with HGS were strong (correlation coefficients = 0.344 and 0.346, respectively). The forest plots show that higher intakes of food, water, calories, protein, and lipids are positively associated with active aerobic PA, while higher intakes of these nutrients are inversely associated with low HGS. However, in the multivariate logistic regression analysis, no significant associations were observed between nutritional intake and active aerobic PA or HGS. Nutritional intake was not found to be an independent factor associated with PA and HGS. However, the observed correlations suggest potential indirect effects that warrant further investigation.

Lenvatinib versus Sorafenib Second-Line Therapy in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma Progressed to Atezolizumab plus Bevacizumab: A Retrospective Real-World Study

Introduction: The most frequently used first-line treatment in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is atezolizumab plus bevacizumab. Upon progression after this treatment, the standard of care in many countries is sorafenib, due to the lack of reimbursement for other drugs. Several randomized trials are currently underway to clarify the best second-line therapy in patients with HCC. This real-world study aimed to compare outcomes reached by lenvatinib and sorafenib second-line therapy in this setting. Methods: The overall cohort included 891 patients with HCC from 5 countries treated with atezolizumab plus bevacizumab in first-line setting between October 2018 and April 2022. At the data cut-off (May 2022), 41.5% of patients were continuing a first-line treatment, 5.5% were lost at follow-up, and 53.0% of patients had progressive disease after first-line therapy. 51.5% of patients with progressive disease received a second-line treatment, while 48.5% did not receive any subsequent therapy. Between patients receiving second-line treatment, 11.1% of patients underwent transarterial chemoembolization, 21.0% received sorafenib, 35.4% underwent lenvatinib, and 32.5% were treated with other drugs. Results: Lenvatinib second-line subgroup achieved a median overall survival (mOS) of 18.9 months, significative longer (p = 0.01; hazard ratio [HR]: 2.24) compared to sorafenib subgroup that reached a mOS of 14.3 months. The multivariate analysis highlighted albumin-bilirubin 1 grade (p < 0.01; HR: 5.23) and lenvatinib second-line therapy (p = 0.01; HR: 2.18) as positive prognostic factors for OS. The forest plot highlighted a positive trend in terms of OS in favor of patients treated with lenvatinib second-line regardless of baseline characteristics before first-line therapy. Conclusion: These results suggest that, in patients with HCC progressed to first-line atezolizumab plus bevacizumab, lenvatinib second-line therapy is associated to an improved survival compared to sorafenib.