Systematic Meta-Analyses Research Articles

Augmented reality in engineering education: enhancing learning and application

IntroductionAugmented reality (AR) is a transformative technology that enhances teaching and learning by blending virtual and real environments. While the potential of AR to improve visualization, interaction, and student engagement in engineering education is recognized, its application across various engineering disciplines remains underexplored. This study systematically investigates the use of AR in engineering fields, highlighting its educational impact and identifying gaps for future research.MethodsA systematic review was conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) framework, analyzing 67 peer-reviewed papers on AR in engineering education. Content analysis was employed to assess AR’s effectiveness in enhancing visualization, interaction, and motivation. A bibliometric analysis identified key AR tools, research trends, geographic distribution, and interdisciplinary collaboration.ResultsAR is extensively applied in civil and mechanical engineering, where tools such as Unity 3D significantly improve visualization and interaction. AR enhances student engagement and comprehension, particularly in complex areas like construction design. However, its adoption in other engineering disciplines remains limited. The analysis also shows the positive impact of AR on motivation and learning outcomes despite challenges such as technical limitations and insufficient training for educators.ConclusionAlthough AR is gaining traction in engineering education, broader adoption is hindered by technical challenges and the need for better curriculum integration. Future research should address these barriers and explore AR’s potential in underutilized engineering disciplines to maximize its educational benefits.

SMEs’ strategic orientation through Miles and Snow typology: a synthesis of literature and future directions

Purpose The purpose of this research is to present a systematic analysis of consequents and antecedents of strategy and performance. To acheive this, this systematic review article analyzes and synthesizes mainstream research on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) where Miles and Snow typology was used for strategic orientation of the SMEs. The specific focus of the research is to develop a conceptual framework showing consequents and antecedents of the strategic orientation. Design/methodology/approach This study uses systematic literature review (SLR) method to identify, summarize and synthesize literature on Miles and Snow typology. Preferred reporting method for systematic reviews and meta-analyses to ensure adherence to systematic approach. The key words search consists of the words: “Miles and Snow”, “Miles and Snow” and “miles-snow” from Web of Science and Scopus databases for sample articles. Findings The trend of research on SMEs using Miles and Snow typology is on the rise with a shift from developed countries to the developing ones. Support for strategy-performance relationship hypotheses is overwhelming but the traditional view is in decline while new antecedent and consequent variables are being added. Mediator and moderating variables are also identified. Originality/value The SLR where a synthesis approach was applied for finding antecedents and consequent variables of strategy-performance relationship along with a presentation of conceptual framework makes this research unique. Additionally, the article presents the trends of research over the time based on timeframe, regions, methodological approaches and hypotheses support.

Examining the Prevalence and Effects of Gender-based Violence in Academic Settings: A Systematic Review and Meta-analyses.

Gender-based violence (GBV) in the academic job sector is a critical issue that intersects with broader systemic and structural inequities, but research is limited. To study the prevalence, effects, and prevention measures of interpersonal GBV within the academic job sector, a meta-analysis and systematic review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis protocol. Rigorous searches were conducted across the databases PubMed, OVID, Scopus, Web of Science, and CINAHL, using specific keywords related to GBV, workplace, and virtual work environments, identifying papers published between January 2013 and February 2023. Studies were evaluated based on the Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcomes framework. Data from papers were extracted and grouped by reported instances, and prevalence data for interpersonal GBV were reported in university settings, including in-person, hybrid, and virtual environments, and among men, women, and those who identify as 2SLGBTQ+. A random effects meta-analysis of proportions was conducted to evaluate the reported point prevalence rates of interpersonal GBV in academia between 2012 and 2015. Subgroup analyses were performed for university staff only, females only, and males only. Out of the 1,290 records, 16 studies met the inclusion criteria. The types of violence identified include sexual harassment, workplace bullying and online harassment, which affects career advancement, and employee well-being. The meta-analyses, conducted with a 95% confidence interval [CI], identified that 51.4% (95% CI [39.9%, 63.0%]) of university staff members experience GBV, with females, 59.3% [38.1%, 80.5%], experiencing greater rates than males, 44% [28.1%, 44.1%]. The findings underscore the need for institutional interventions to address interpersonal GBV in academic workplaces.

Retrospective Analysis of Cerebrospinal Gushers in Cochlear Implant Surgery: Incidence, Risk Factors, and Outcomes-A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Background: Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) gusher is a common complication experienced during cochlear implantation in patients with structural deformities in the inner ear. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the incidence of CSF gusher, risk factors, and outcomes in patients during cochlear implantation. Methods: This systematic review and meta-analysis were guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses model. Studies used in the analysis were identified through a comprehensive search in Google Scholar and PubMed. Results: The analysis was performed using 13 retrospective studies. The incidence of CSF gusher was 5% (95% CI: 3%-9%). CSF gusher was more prevalent among patients with inner-ear malformation (IEM) than without IEM odds ratio = 63.01 (95% CI: 9.85-403.11, P < .00001, I2 = 88%). For incomplete partition (IP), CSF gusher in the IP-I group was 48% (95% CI: 25%-71%, I2 = 0%), 19% in IP-II, 86% in IP-III, 40% in the common cavity, 26% in cochlear hypoplasia, and 27% in patients with enlarged vestibula aqueduct. Conclusion: The CSF gusher incidences were determined to be 5%. Patients with IEM are at increased risk of experiencing CSF gusher during cochlear implant surgery. Therefore, precise scanning reports should be produced in preoperational phase to inform proper management techniques to reduce the chances of intraoperative complications, including CSF gusher.

Advancing Digital Education Technologies by Empowering Nurses With Point-of-Care Ultrasound: Protocol for a Mixed Methods Study.

Bedside ultrasonography, also known as point-of-care ultrasound (PoCUS), is a promising technological tool that enhances clinical assessment, enriching diagnostic capabilities and clinical reasoning. Its use in nursing spans various patient populations and health care settings, providing nurses with a valuable health assessment tool to improve care quality and patient safety. Despite its growing integration into clinical practice, PoCUS training has mainly focused on physicians, leaving a gap for trained nurses who demonstrate similar proficiency in conducting scans and interpreting images. Previous research highlights the value of digital tools in PoCUS training, showing their role in improving professionals' and students' knowledge, image interpretation skills, and clinical acumen. This study aimed to (1) establish an assessment instrument gauging nurses' competency milestones in PoCUS and evaluate its content and appearance validity, (2) develop a series of 5 educational videos focused on PoCUS and assess their content and appearance validity, and (3) construct an online learning environment tailored to nurses' PoCUS training needs and evaluate its content and appearance validity. We will conduct a methodological study of technological production guided by Rogers' diffusion of innovations theory. Subproject 1 will design and validate a comprehensive assessment tool for evaluating nurses' competency milestones in PoCUS use. For this purpose, a scoping review will be conducted. The review will be based on JBI Collaboration guidelines and reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extended for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) checklist. Subproject 2 involves an evaluation of content and appearance validity for a series of 5 educational videos on PoCUS, designed specifically for nurses about applying peripherally inserted central catheter lines, inserting nasogastric feeding tubes, assessing gastric residual volume, assessing pressure injuries and soft tissue conditions, and assessing muscle mass to monitor patient nutritional status. In subproject 3, a comprehensive online learning environment dedicated to PoCUS training for nurses will be developed and validated. The launch of an online learning environment represents a cornerstone of our dissemination strategy, scheduled to coincide with the inaugural Brazilian PoCUS symposium for nurses, an event organized by the project members. This platform will serve as a pivotal resource for continuous learning and professional development. Subproject 1 will start in the second half of 2024 and is expected to be completed by mid-2025. Subproject 2 is currently ongoing and is expected to be completed in early 2026. Subproject 3 is set to begin in early 2025 and is planned to be completed by 2026. Through these concerted efforts, the project aims to bridge the existing gap in PoCUS training for nurses, thereby fostering their proficiency and enhancing patient care outcomes. PRR1-10.2196/58030.

Measuring evidence-based practice knowledge, skills, attitudes, and behavior in students of manual therapy education programs: A scoping review of instruments and their measurement properties.

The purpose of this review was to identify assessment instruments and their measurement properties for assessing evidence-based practice (EBP) knowledge, skills, attitudes, and behavior among students of manual therapy education programs. 7 electronic databases were systematically searched from inception to May 19, 2023. (MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, ERIC, EBSCO Discovery, LISA, Google Scholar.) Search terms were subject headings specific to each database (MeSH in MEDLINE) and relevant to evidence-based practice, assessment tools/instruments, and manual therapy healthcare professions. Eligible studies included students of manual therapy education programs (chiropractic, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, osteopathy) and provided evidence supporting instrument measurement properties (reliability, validity). Titles and abstracts were screened by 2 reviewers. Data on each instrument and its properties were extracted and tabulated by 2 reviewers. Instruments were compared using the Classification Rubric for EBP Assessment Tools in Education (CREATE) framework including the 5 steps in the EBP model. Joanna Briggs Institute methodology and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews checklist were followed. 5 studies were identified, (3 physiotherapy, 2 chiropractic) Two studies used a physiotherapy-focused modification of the Fresno test. One study presented the Knowledge of Research Evidence Competencies instrument. Two studies presented original instruments. Instruments focused on the knowledge domain and did not assess all 5 EBP model steps. The current literature does not address all 5 steps of the EBP model. The identified instruments have the potential to ensure chiropractic institutions are graduating chiropractors who are highly skilled in evidence-based practice.

The application of social network analysis in applied linguistics research: a systematic review

Abstract Social network analysis (SNA) has recently drawn increasing scholarly attention in applied linguistics research in response to the social turn in the field. In this review, we analyze and identify the methodological characteristics and topical concerns of articles addressing SNA in Social Science Citation Index (SSCI) journals. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, we identify a total of 60 articles published between 1980 and 2023. Our analysis reveals that a growing body of research is adopting qualitative and mixed methods to examine the relationships between social networks and language learning, teaching and use. These findings confirm that social context constitutes an essential part of the ecosystem intertwined with various cognitive, social, and psychological factors, which have a synergistic impact on language learning and teaching. While these studies show that social networks afford learners with valuable linguistic, emotional, and social resources, they reveal that networks may also exert negative influences in their learning behaviors in some contexts. We conclude the review with recommendations for future research to broaden the scope of investigations and consider exploring how different types of social networks at meso- and macro-levels may influence the learning and teaching of language.

Racial biases in clinical practice and medical education: a scoping review

IntroductionHealth inequalities represent a major challenge in contemporary medicine, with some attributed to racial biases. Recently, in the United States, a call to combat discrimination in the field of health has resonated, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 crisis, in which minorities have been disproportionately affected. These calls echo recommendations from the Institute of Medicine dating back to 2001, urging the fight against inequalities in access to health care. In France, inequalities based on presumed origin persist, yet medical education on these issues is virtually nonexistent.Materials and MethodsWe conducted a scoping review literature review in accordance with the JBI recommendations for scoping review writing and applied the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) checklist to explore existing conceptual and educational data on racial biases in medicine. The inclusion criteria were interventional studies or evaluations of existing educational programs in medical training addressing the fight against racial biases in clinical settings published in French or English between 2003 and 2023. Six databases were systematically consulted.ResultsOut of 748 initial studies, 28 were included in our study. The median number of participants in the studies was low, interventions were diverse, and participants were generally well received, most of whom were self-selected. No study has evaluated the clinical impact of these interventions. The highlighted concepts included levels of racism, cultural competence, cultural humility, and critical race theory.DiscussionThe authors most frequently referred to institutionalized racism, demonstrating the systemic nature of these issues. At an individual level, implicit and unconscious biases were most often emphasized. It appears that the concept of “race” is a sociopolitical construct without supporting biological determinants. Humility is central to this field of study, as it encourages questioning of individual or collective medical practices. In France, the context, including the prohibition of ethnic statistics, may hinder the objectification of discrimination. Immersion and virtual patient scenarios emerged as potential solutions for evaluating the clinical impact of interventions. A more horizontal medical pedagogy seems better suited to teach these sensitive issues.

The efficacy of hemoglobin spray in wound management: a systematic review and network meta-analysis of comparative studies

Purpose There is no evidence comparing the treatment results of hemoglobin spray and hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) in chronic wounds. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review and network meta-analysis to explore the efficacy and role of hemoglobin spray in the treatment of chronic wounds. The probabilities of being the best treatment option were estimated and ranked between hemoglobin spray and HBOT. Methods A systematic review and network meta-analysis (NMA) were conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and PROSPERO number: CRD42020161396. Results A total of 934 studies were identified from PUBMED and SCOPUS databases, and 112 articles were deleted. Among the 24 studies, 16 RCTs and eight cohort studies met our inclusion criteria. In direct meta-analysis, HBOT had higher proportion of wound healing rate than control with pooled risk ratios (RRs) of 1.67 (95%CI: 1.10, 2.52). Hemoglobin spray had a higher wound healing rate than the control, with a pooled odds ratio (OR) of 1.92 (95%CI: 1.35, 2.73). In the network meta-analysis, the probability of being the best treatment was hemoglobin spray, followed by hyperbaric, with surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRAs) of 67.9, and 32.1, respectively. Conclusions Our evidence suggests that the proportion of wound healing in the hemoglobin spray and HBOT groups was higher than that in the control group. A network meta-analysis demonstrated that hemoglobin spray had the highest chance of treatment success. There is a need for further studies using well-designed RCTs and updated meta-analyses to provide enough evidence to compare the effectiveness of hemoglobin spray and HBOT in clinical practice.

Robotic Versus Laparoscopic Versus Open Surgery for Non-Metastatic Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors (pNETs): A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis

Background: This systematic review, using pairwise and network meta-analyses, aimed to compare the intraoperative, short-term, and long-term postoperative outcomes of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) and open surgery (OS) for the management of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNETs). Methods: Studies reporting on the effects of robotic, laparoscopic, and open surgery on pNETs published before November 2023 on PubMed, Scopus, and CENTRAL were analyzed. Results: Thirty-two studies with 5379 patients were included in this review, encompassing 2251 patients undergoing MIS (1334 laparoscopic, 508 robotic, and 409 unspecified MIS) and 3128 patients undergoing OS for pNETs management. Pairwise meta-analysis revealed that the MIS group had a significantly shorter length of hospital stay ((a low certainty of evidence), MD of −4.87 (−6.19 to −3.56)); less intraoperative blood loss ((a low certainty of evidence), MD of −108.47 (−177.47 to −39.47)); and decreased tumor recurrence ((a high certainty of evidence), RR of 0.46, 95% CI (0.33 to 0.63)). Subgroup analysis indicated a higher R0 resection rate and prolonged operative time for laparoscopic surgery than for OS. The network meta-analysis ranked the robotic approach as superior in terms of the length of hospital stay, followed by the laparoscopic and OS arms. Furthermore, it favored both MIS approaches over OS in terms of the R0 resection rate. No significant differences were found in severe postoperative complications, postoperative fistula formation, mortality, readmission, reoperation, or conversion rates. Conclusions: This review supports the safety of MIS for the treatment of pNETs. However, the varying certainty of evidence emphasizes the need for higher-quality studies.

The Prevalence and Related Factors of Hearing Loss Among Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses

Objectives: We aimed to estimate the global prevalence of hearing loss among adults and to explore its associated factors. Methods: Our systematic review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis statement (PRISMA). We retrieved corresponding documents published up to Sep 24, 2021 in PubMed and Web of Science. Random-effects models were used to calculate the pooled prevalence of hearing loss. Subgroup analyses were conducted to explore potential heterogeneity. Results: The pooled prevalence of any hearing loss across 100 studies was 31.0% (95% CI: 26.9-35.1, P &lt; .001, I2 = 99.9%), and the pooled prevalence of disabling hearing loss across 34 studies was 15.9% (95% CI: 11.1-20.7, P &lt; .001, I2 = 99.9%). The prevalence of hearing loss was higher in the year range of 2000 to 2009, among the elder (≥70) or males, in studies using either ear side of hearing loss definition or in the region of the Americas. Ear disease or surgery, job noise exposure, current smoking, off-work noise exposure, males, cardiovascular disease, past drinking, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, older age, and past smoking are risk factors of hearing loss while education level surpasses high school acts as a protect factor for hearing. Conclusion: Our results demonstrate high prevalence of hearing loss among adults worldwide and verify several related factors of the disease. Prevention and intervention measures should be implemented.

Impact of Climate Change on Mental Health Among Vulnerable Groups: A Systematic Literature Review

Objective: This study aims to explore the impact of climate change on mental health among vulnerable groups, including low-income populations, Indigenous communities, children, women, and the elderly, to highlight their unique vulnerabilities and mental health outcomes. This aligns with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 13 (Climate Action), addressing the need for climate resilience and mental health equity. Theoretical Framework: The research is grounded in social vulnerability theory, emphasizing how structural inequalities exacerbate the impact of climate change on mental health. The framework integrates psychological theories of eco-anxiety and solastalgia, which explain the mental distress caused by environmental changes. Method: A systematic literature review was conducted using the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) methodology. This involved a comprehensive search of academic databases, screening studies, and qualitatively synthesizing data from 35 peer-reviewed articles published between 2000 and 2023. Results and Discussion: Findings reveal that climate change exacerbates mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD among vulnerable groups due to their limited adaptive capacity and exposure to climate-related hazards. Vulnerable communities, including Indigenous groups and low-income populations, experience heightened psychological impacts such as eco-anxiety and solastalgia. The results underscore the importance of integrating mental health considerations into climate adaptation policies and developing targeted interventions to enhance resilience among these populations. This study also supports global efforts toward achieving SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities). Research Implication: The study suggests the need for comprehensive and equitable mental health strategies that prioritize vulnerable groups in climate change adaptation planning. Policymakers must consider social equity and community-based approaches to mitigate the mental health impacts of climate change. Originality/Value: This review uniquely addresses the intersection of climate change and mental health within marginalized populations, emphasizing the need for mental health integration in climate adaptation frameworks. The study highlights the underexplored psychological dimensions of climate change, providing valuable insights for developing inclusive and sustainable adaptation strategies. sustainability

Effectiveness of Telemedicine in Managing Health-Related Issues in the Pediatric Population: A Systematic Review.

Healthcare delivery is made more convenient and effective via telemedicine, which enables physicians to conduct virtual consultations and evaluations with pediatric patients. The purpose of this systematic review was to evaluate the efficacy of telemedicine as compared to physical appointments in the pediatric population. We used Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to search for the available literature using pre-specified inclusion and exclusion criteria. These databases provided 968 relevant research articles, which Endnote software screened for duplicates. Fourteen studies were considered relevant for full-text evaluation. After complete text evaluation, only 11 of these articles were found to be relevant. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) was used for the risk of bias assessment of all included studies. Eleven articles in all satisfied the requirements for inclusion and were added to the review. Every study was classified as either a cluster randomized trial (27%) or a randomized controlled trial (RCT) (73%). There were between 22 and 400 participants in each trial. Medical conditions evaluated included obesity (27%), mental health disorders (9%), asthma (18%), otitis media (9%), skin disorders (9%), type 1 diabetes (9%), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) (9%), and pancreatic insufficiency associated with cystic fibrosis (1/11). Telemedicine strategies employed included telemedicine-based screening visits (9%), smartphone-based therapies (27%), phone counseling (18%), and videoconferencing visits between patients and doctors (45%). The outcomes of the telemedicine procedures in every included study were on par with or superior to those of the control groups. Medication adherence, appointment completion rates, life satisfaction, symptom management, and disease progression were all outcomes associated with these findings. Although more research is needed, the evidence from this review suggests that telemedicine services for the general public and pediatric care are comparable to or better than in-person services. Patients, healthcare professionals, and caregivers may benefit from using both telemedicine services and traditional in-person healthcare services. To maximize the potential of telemedicine, future research should focus on improving patients' access to care, increasing the cost-effectiveness of telemedicine services, and eliminating barriers to telemedicine use.

Telesurgery a Systematic Literature Review and Future Directions.

To undertake a systematic review of the medical literature on telesurgery, with a key focus on identifying the key technical and non-technical themes searched in medical articles and to analyze gaps in the current knowledge base on telesurgery. It has now been over two decades since the first successful case of telesurgery and since this time there have been significant technological and telecommunications advancements. A systematic review of the literature was completed in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) statement. Details of the protocol for this systematic review were registered on PROSPERO (CRD42024511530). In total, 102 unique references which were allocated into five categories; technical, cybersecurity, ethical, financial, regulatory considerations to discuss key themes. The vast majority of references were related to technical considerations which have demonstrated the feasibility of telesurgery. The non-technical considerations have a paucity of literature and a lack of guidance on telesurgery which appears to still be the major barriers to telesurgery. Telesurgery presents many interdisciplinary challenges, encompassing both important technical and non-technical (such as cybersecurity, ethical, financial, and regulatory) considerations. Further research, collaboration between stakeholders, collaborative community of experts, and the development of comprehensive consensus frameworks are essential steps toward the widespread adoption of telesurgery.

Use of Renewable Energy to Enhance Firm Performance: A Systematic Review

This study employs a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) combined with bibliometric and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) methodologies to investigate the factors influencing the use of renewable energy in enhancing firm performance. An analysis of 27 selected articles reveals three key factors: firm innovation, governance, and regulation. The study further emphasizes the benefits of renewable energy adoption across various business performance metrics, including firm profit, financial, logistics, and sustainable performance. The novelty of this paper lies in its comprehensive integration of bibliometrics analysis with PRISMA to bridge gaps in existing literature. It contributes to the field by offering insights into the complex relationship between renewable energy use and firm performance, underscoring the significance of continued investigation to resolve inconsistencies and deepen understanding.

Use of Biomarkers in Nutrition Intervention Studies of Children: A Scoping Review

Obesity in youth is an increasingly prevalent public health concern worldwide. Lifestyle interventions aim to help participants establish healthy habits and reduce obesity-related disease risk by targeting physical activity and dietary habits. Most studies assess weight loss, but biomarkers may enable more rapid and comprehensive assessment of intervention success. This scoping review aims to synthesize the published literature on which biomarkers are assessed during interventions for pediatric obesity to inform future use. This review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. A literature search of five databases conducted in February 2022 returned 1579 unique and relevant articles published between 2006 and 2021. After screening titles, abstracts, and full text, four reviewers determined that 43 studies met eligibility requirements. Quality screening was conducted, and 97.7% of papers were of fair or good quality. Of the 43 studies, 47% reported measures of adipose-related signaling molecules inclusive of adipokines, 74% included insulin-related biomarkers, 63% reported lipid-related biomarkers, 40% reported proinflammatory cytokine biomarkers, 12% reported measures of skin and/or plasma carotenoids, 40% measured blood pressure, and 21% included liver enzymes. Sixty-seven percent of studies measured biomarkers in whole blood, 40% measured biomarkers in plasma, 56% measured biomarkers in serum, and 2% measured biomarkers in urine. This work summarizes the current use of biomarkers in lifestyle intervention studies enrolling children. These biomarkers could be clinically relevant for pediatric weight management interventions.

Analyzing Sports Biomechanics of Hurdling Training: A Systematic Review

Background. Hurdling is a dynamic and technically demanding sport within athletics. It requires a unique combination of speed, agility, coordination, and strength to support good technique and achievement. The ability to excel in this sport depends on the athlete’s mastery of these components, making it an interesting subject for sports science research. Objectives. This study aimed to evaluate existing research on sports biomechanics as it relates to improving hurdling performance. Materials and methods. The study was conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) methodology of the relevant literature. A total of 15 articles published between 1990 and 2023 were identified as relevant to the focus of the study and selected for in-depth analysis. Results. The findings showed that sports biomechanics research in hurdling training has mainly concentrated on the following key areas: kinematics analysis, the application of technology, and the potential injury studies. Although significant progress has been made in understanding the biomechanics of hurdling training, this study suggests the need for further and more comprehensive research. The research mentioned should delve deeper into the biomechanical factors influencing performance in order to develop optimal training methods and injury prevention strategies. Conclusions. This review underscores the importance of continued research in this area, as it has the potential to enhance training approaches and improve athletic performance in hurdling.

Post-COVID-19 Vaccination Meningitis and Meningoencephalitis: A Systematic Review of Case Series and Case Reports.

Meningitis and meningoencephalitis, as inflammatory diseases of the brain parenchyma, are serious events reported sporadically after coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination. However, there is a lack of systematic reviews consolidating these reported cases. By using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, a comprehensive search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science databases. All case reports and series discussing the emergence of meningitis and meningoencephalitis after COVID-19 vaccination were included and evaluated using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tool. Out of 967 records, 27 studies with 31 patients were eventually included. The most commonly reported symptoms were headaches and fever. About one-third of the patients exhibited positive meningeal signs. Most of the findings in the computed tomography scans and magnetic resonance images revealed no significant changes or enhancement in the leptomeninges. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis dominantly suggested aseptic meningitis, and about 80.6% of the patients experienced a full recovery. After a detailed review of the reported cases, further research is needed to establish a definitive correlation between meningitis and COVID-19 vaccination on a larger scale.

In-Bed Monitoring: A Systematic Review of the Evaluation of In-Bed Movements Through Bed Sensors

The growing popularity of smart beds and devices for remote healthcare monitoring is based on advances in artificial intelligence (AI) applications. This systematic review aims to evaluate and synthesize the growing literature on the use of machine learning (ML) techniques to characterize patient in-bed movements and bedsore development. This review is conducted according to the principles of PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) and is registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO CRD42022314329). The search was performed through nine scientific databases. The review included 78 articles, including 142 ML models. The applied ML models revealed significant heterogeneity in the various methodologies used to identify and classify patient behaviors and postures. The assortment of ML models encompassed artificial neural networks, deep learning architectures, and multimodal sensor integration approaches. This review shows that the models for analyzing and interpreting in-bed movements perform well in experimental settings. Large-scale real-life studies are lacking in diverse patient populations.

Association between forensic DNA and odontology in human identification during mass disaster: a systematic review

BACKGROUND: According to the literature, forensic odontology is one of the most effective and affordable scientific techniques for identifying victims of mass disasters. This research methodically reviews the role and function of forensic odontologists in several global mass disasters. Forensic DNA in odontology is associated with the importance of its application in the identification of humans of mass disasters. As the crime rate continues to rise, the field of forensic medicine has evolved significantly. Forensic dentists play a pivotal role in various areas of crime scene investigations, thereby helping solve innumerable mysteries. AIM: The study aimed to increase the body of knowledge for future research on forensic odontology by conducting a systematic review search to investigate possible forensic DNA in odontology associated with the importance of its application in the identification of humans of mass disasters. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Six databases, including Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect, were analyzed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) quality scale. The literature search, conducted until February 2024, informed important research choices. RESULTS: A total of 16 (100%) studies related to forensic DNA of mass disasters were identified. Of these, only seven (43.75%) articles related to dental DNA were included in this review. Of the 4,808 articles obtained, 138 duplicates or irrelevant articles were eliminated. Following a full-text review, seven studies were selected based on eligibility criteria. The highest percentage of victims was identified using dental DNA. In a few studies, some samples were insufficient for complete DNA profiling due to factors such as the method of DNA extraction. CONCLUSION: Forensic odontology has played a significant role in the identification of victims of several mass disasters around the world. Although teeth are an excellent source of DNA for humans, future studies with larger sample sizes, appropriate control groups, and standardized techniques of DNA extraction need to be conducted.