Systematic Meta-Analyses Research Articles

Efficacy and safety of first-line immune checkpoint inhibitor combination therapies in patients with advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: a network meta-analysis

BackgroundWe performed a network meta-analysis of phase III trials to compare the efficacy and safety of first-line regimens for patients with advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC).MethodsA systematic review and Bayesian network meta-analysis were conducted by retrieving relevant literature from PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and the Web of Science. We included published sources of randomized clinical trials comparing immunotherapy combinations for treating advanced ESCC.ResultsWe analyzed seven studies involving eight immunotherapy combinations and 4688 patients. For patients without programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) selection, it was found that the combination of toripalimab and chemotherapy provided better overall survival than chemotherapy alone (hazard ratio = 0.58, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.43-0.78). Compared with chemotherapy alone, Sintilimab or camrelizumab plus chemotherapy seemed to achieve the best progression-free survival (hazard ratio = 0.56, 95% CI 0.46-0.68). Nivolumab plus chemotherapy appeared to provide the best objective response rate, with significant differences versus chemotherapy alone (odds ratio = 0.49, 95% CI 0.38-0.64). Nivolumab plus ipilimumab resulted in a relatively lower incidence of adverse events of grade ≥3 than other regimens.ConclusionsThe combination of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) with chemotherapy provided a high probability of more effective treatment in comparison with chemotherapy alone for patients with advanced ESCC. Toripalimab and sintilimab plus chemotherapy were ranked as providing the highest OS and PFS benefit in the first-line setting, respectively.

Abstract 4122035: The Distinct Natural History, Phenotype Spectrum, Familial Penetrance and Clinical Outcomes in Desmin ( DES )-Associated Cardiomyopathy

Background: Pathogenic/likely pathogenic variants (P/LP) in the desmin ( DES ) gene cause heterogeneous cardiomyopathy and skeletal myopathy phenotypes. Research Questions: Limited data suggest that patients with P/LP DES variants have a high incidence of major adverse cardiac events (MACEs), including cardiac conduction disease requiring pacemaker implantation (CCD-PM), sustained ventricular arrhythmias (VA), and heart failure (HF) events (HF hospitalization, heart transplant, HF-related death). However, small cohort sizes have limited full clinical characterization. Aims: We aimed to describe the natural history, phenotype spectrum, familial penetrance and MACE in patients with P/LP DES variants identified via clinical genetic testing. Methods: We conducted a systematic review and individual patient data meta-analysis of cardiac and skeletal myopathy phenotypes and MACE (CCD-PM, VA and HF events) in patients with P/LP DES variants by retrieving publications from Medline (PubMed) and Embase. Diagnosis of cardiomyopathy or MACE were both considered evidence of cardiac involvement. Results: Out of 4,212 screened records, 72 met inclusion criteria. In total, 230 patients were included (52.6% male, 52.2% probands, median age: 31 years at first evaluation [22.0; 42.8]). Eighty-five (37.0%) patients showed isolated cardiac involvement, 89 (38.7%) cardiac and skeletal muscle involvement, 39 (17.0%) only skeletal muscle involvement, and 17 (7.4%) had neither phenotype. Overall, 130 (56.5%) patients were diagnosed with a cardiomyopathy and 134 (57.4%) patients developed MACE (96 [41.7%] had CCD-PM, 36 [15.7%] sustained VA, and 43 [18.7%] HF events). Familial cardiac disease penetrance was 69.1% (76/110) in relatives with P/LP DES variants. Out of 40 patients who presented with isolated CCD-PM phenotype, 18 (45.0%) were diagnosed with a cardiomyopathy after 6 [2.0; 16.0] years of follow-up. In multivariable analysis, male sex and non-missense variants were associated with higher risk of sustained VA (HR 2.71, p=0.008, and HR 4.62, p<0.001, respectively) and HF events (HR 2.63, p=0.005, and HR 2.79, p=0.015). Conclusions: DES cardiomyopathy demonstrates a distinct natural history, characterized by high familial penetrance and a high MACE burden. Male patients and those carrying non-missense variants are at higher risk for sustained VA events and may benefit from primary preventive ICD implantation even in the absence of severe LV systolic dysfunction.

Efficacy and Safety of Farletuzumab in Ovarian Cancer: A Systematic Review and Single-Arm Meta-Analysis

Efficacy and Safety of Farletuzumab in Ovarian Cancer: A Systematic Review and Single-Arm Meta-Analysis

Effects of Non-Pharmacological Interventions on the Swallowing Function of Patients With Post-Stroke Dysphagia: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis.

Post-stroke dysphagia can lead to serious complications and appropriate rehabilitation can significantly improve swallowing function. However, the best rehabilitation method for post-stroke dysphagia patients is not clear at the present stage, so it is necessary to conduct a comprehensive network meta-analysis and systematic review of different interventions for dysphagia. To compare the effectiveness and ranking of different interventions for improving swallowing function, and feeding and daily function in patients with post-stroke dysphagia. Seven databases were searched from the date of inception to September 1, 2022. Two investigators independently conducted literature searches, selected randomized controlled trials on dysphagia interventions, and assessed study quality. Network meta-analysis was conducted by using Stata software. A total of 33 studies involving 1,341 patients were included. According to the ranking probabilities, acupuncture was rated as the most effective of all interventions to enhance patients' swallowing function (surface under cumulative ranking curve values [SUCRCV]: 99.0%, standardized mean difference [SMD]: -2.40, 95% confidence interval [CI]: -3.38 to -1.43), followed by the chin tuck against resistance exercise (CTAR, SUCRA: 89.9%, SMD: -1.83, 95% CI: -2.69 to -0.97). Among all the interventions, acupuncture was the most effective for feeding and daily function (SUCRCV: 88.4%, SMD: -1.62, 95% CI: -2.94 to -0.30). The results showed that acupuncture was the most effective in the rehabilitation of patients with post-stroke dysphagia, followed by CTAR. Considering that CTAR is a low-cost and highly feasible intervention, we suggest that CTAR should be selected as a rehabilitation measure for patients with post-stroke dysphagia to improve their swallowing function.

Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapy to Reduce the Neurological Deficit of Chronic Ischemic Stroke Patients: A Systematic Review

Current ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke treatments are limited by a narrow golden period and lack of regenerative benefits, so stem cell therapy emerges as an ideal candidate for functional recovery in stroke patients. Stem cell therapy, still being studied, is expected to repair ischemic areas damaged by stroke to restore their physiological functions and reduce neurological deficits in chronic stroke patients. This study aimed to determine the therapeutic efficacy of MSCs in reducing neurological deficits in chronic ischemic stroke patients. We conducted a systematic review. We searched PubMed, Cochrane Library, Science Direct, and Springer Link from inception until December 2022 for cohort studies dealing with mesenchymal stem cell therapy for patients with ischemic stroke. The citation-searching method in this study collected 1,038 articles using the advanced searching method and 8 articles using the citation-searching method, bringing the total number of articles to 1,046. The exclusion criteria used were articles with systematic reviews and meta-analyses and articles that were not accessible in full text. Based on the results of a systematic review study conducted, the conclusion that can be drawn is that MSCs therapy has proven effective in reducing neurological deficits in chronic ischemic stroke patients in terms of the decreased NIHSS score.

Exploring the Nature-Creativity Connection Across Different Settings: A Scoping Review

AbstractThe widespread benefits of creativity have become more salient in recent years. This has led to scholarly interest in finding ways to foster creativity. Nature immersion may be one way to enhance creativity, particularly as many individuals involved in creative pursuits have found nature to be a source of inspiration and a haven for restoration. Using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) extension for scoping reviews and the PRISMA-ScR 22 item checklist, we conducted a scoping review to examine the evidence on the relationship between nature and creativity as well as any underlying mechanisms facilitating this relationship. A scoping review was deemed appropriate given the infancy of the topic and the need to understand the broad landscape. Our aim was to present a range of interdisciplinary applications of nature interventions on different types of creative performance. We found 45 publications exploring the relationship between nature and creativity, with the majority (n = 36, 80%) published within the past seven years. Overall, the quantitative studies in our scoping review provided evidence of a significant positive relationship, or effect, between nature and creativity. These relationships held across various types of nature including for wilderness, rural and urban settings, as well as in different applications of creativity such as in the arts, workplace, education, and laboratory conditions. Qualitative and case study research also supported the positive relationship between nature and creativity including in diverse nature settings and in different applications such as in visual arts, design, writing, music, free play in kindergartens, and work. Qualitative studies highlighted potential mechanisms behind this relationship, including time in solitude, appreciation of impermanence, relaxation and inspiration, and disconnection from technology. Moreover, the degree of exposure to nature may be an important consideration for creative performance with more immersive, real-life experiences typical of outdoor nature, tending to be more effective than indoor spaces with window views or indoor plants. These preliminary findings suggest that more opportunities to connect with nature, especially in the outdoors, may help to stimulate creativity in a wide range of settings including education, the creative arts, and workplaces, although more high-quality research examining the sustained effects of nature on creativity is needed.

Abstract 4137019: Paclitaxel-Coated Balloon vs Uncoated Balloon for Coronary In-Stent Restenosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Background: Despite the effectiveness of drug-eluting stents (DES) in preventing restenosis, many patients still experience DES restenosis. Neointimal hyperplasia and neoatherosclerosis can develop within these stents, leading to recurrent coronary syndromes. Hypothesis: Repeated stenting with DES is limited by additional metal layers, the need for prolonged dual antiplatelet therapy, and heightened risks of stent thrombosis. Locally acting drugs with sustained efficacy may prevent this progression. Paclitaxel delivery via contrast medium or drug-coated balloon catheters could exert antiproliferative effects, reducing neointimal proliferation. Aims: To synthesize existing evidence on the efficacy and safety of Paclitaxel-Coated Balloons versus Uncoated Balloons in coronary in-stent restenosis. Methods: Following the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines, we searched five electronic databases (PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Web of Science) to identify eligible studies reported up to March 23, 2024. Using R version 4.4.0, we reported outcomes as risk ratios (RRs) or mean differences (MD) and confidence intervals (CIs). This review has been registered and published in PROSPERO (CRD42024527412). Results: The meta-analysis included a total of six trials with 1,541 patients. PCB significantly reduced the incidence of myocardial infarction (RR 0.65, 95% CI [0.42, 1.00], p = 0.052), stent thrombosis (RR 0.26, 95% CI 0.08, to 0.83], p = 0.023), major adverse cardiac events (RR 0.32, 95% CI 0.25, to 0.42], P < 0.001), target lesion revascularization (RR 0.34, 95% CI [0.14, 0.84], p < 0.001). No significant differences were observed between PCB and UCB regarding cardiac-related mortality, target vessel revascularization, percutaneous coronary intervention, all-cause death, Q wave and non-Q wave myocardial infarction, coronary artery bypass grafting, and target vessel failure. Conclusion: PCB for ISR significantly reduced the incidence of myocardial infarction, MACE, and stent thrombosis compared to UCB.

Clinical and Biochemical Outcomes in Transgender Individuals Undergoing Hormone Therapy: Protocol for a Systematic Review.

Monitoring of various clinical outcomes and parameters, such as lipid levels, is recommended in transgender individuals undergoing hormone therapies. However, comprehensive data to inform these recommendations is scarce. This study aims to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to synthesize evidence from existing literature on the effect of exogenous hormone therapy on clinical and biochemical outcomes for transgender adolescents and adults. We will search multiple electronic databases and will include prospective and retrospective observational studies with and without a control group. The study population will include transgender individuals undergoing hormone therapy with testosterone or estrogen. Comparisons will include age-matched, cisgender individuals and changes from baseline. Primary outcomes include changes in or the development of abnormal lipid parameters. Secondary outcomes include BMI, weight, height, and blood pressure for age, serum testosterone or estrogen levels, and development of disease including hypertension, diabetes, fatty liver disease, obesity, adverse cardiac events, as well as all-cause mortality. The meta-analysis will pool the studies where applicable, and meta-regressions will be conducted to evaluate effect modifiers. The GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) approach will be used to evaluate the overall certainty of evidence. We will summarize the selection of the eligible studies using a PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) flowchart. The results will be presented in a table summarizing the evidence. Data collection is ongoing, and the paper is expected to be published in Spring 2025. This systematic review will summarize and evaluate the evidence of the clinical and biochemical outcomes associated with hormone therapies for transgender individuals. PROSPERO CRD42024483138; https://tinyurl.com/yc4sfvnb. PRR1-10.2196/57931.

Efficacy and safety of complement inhibitors in patients with geographic atrophy associated with age-related macular degeneration: a network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

ImportanceClinical trials in recent years have shown significant effectiveness of complement inhibitors for geographic atrophy (GA) treatment. Two complement inhibitor drugs have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).Objectiveto compare and rank the different complement inhibitors in the treatment of GA secondary to age-related macular degeneration (AMD).Data sourcesA systematic literature search was conducted in the Cochrane Central, Web of Science Core Collection, PubMed, LWW Medical Journals, ClinicalTrials.gov, and WHO ICTRP from inception to October 2023.Study selectionAll randomized clinical trials evaluating the effectiveness of complement inhibitors in patients diagnosed with secondary GA in AMD were identified.Data extraction and synthesisThis study followed Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) network meta-analysis Checklist of Items and the Cochrane Risk of Bias Assessment Tool for assessing the study quality. Multiple authors independently coded all titles and abstracts, reviewed full-text articles against the inclusion and exclusion criteria, and resolved all discrepancies by consensus. Random-effects network meta-analyses were applied. Bayesian network meta-analysis was performed using the BUGSnet package in R (4.2.0).Main outcomes and measuresThe primary efficacy outcome was the change in GA lesion size (mm2) from baseline to month 12. The secondary efficacy outcome was the mean change in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) from baseline to month 12. Safety outcome measures included the number of subjects with serious adverse events (SAEs) and macular neovascularization (MNV).ResultsTen randomized controlled trials including 4,405 participants and five complement inhibitors were identified. Comparison with sham and SUCRA analysis showed that avacincaptad pegol 2 mg (MD: −0.58, 95% CrI: −0.97 to −0.18, SUCRA: 93.55), pegcetacoplan monthly (MD: −0.38, 95% CrI: −0.57 to −0.20, SUCRA: 81.37), and pegcetacoplan every other month (MD: −0.30, 95% CrI: −0.49 to −0.11, SUCRA: 70.16) have significant changes in GA lesion reduction. No treatments showed significant changes in BCVA and SAE compared with sham. Pegcetacoplan monthly (OR: 4.30, 95% CrI: 1.48–16.72) increased the risk of MNV. Avacincaptad pegol 2 mg demonstrated favorable outcomes in terms of SAE and MNV.Conclusion and relevanceAvacincaptad pegol 2 mg is the most effective complement inhibitor with better safety for the treatment of GA secondary to AMD.Systematic Review Registrationhttps://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42022351515, Identifier PROSPERO CRD42022351515.

Determinants of Child Marriage in Indonesia : A Systematic Review

Early marriage is an ongoing phenomenon and is becoming more prevalent. The lack of public knowledge and lack of awareness of early child marriage leaves children deeply traumatized. More than 1 million (1.2 million) women aged 20-24 were married for the first time before the age of 18. The purpose of this study was to provide an overview of the causal characteristics of child marriage in Indonesia. The method used in this study was a systematic review conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) rules. The literature search was performed across multiple journal sites or online articles such as Google Scholar, PubMed, and Science Direct by entering the keywords 'Determinants of child marriage AND Indonesia'. There is a prevalent belief among parents and youth is that marrying off young girls preserves family honor. Additionally, poverty and economic instability make child marriage more socially acceptable. Other contributing factors include limited access to education and societal norms that promote marriage after puberty and within the same ethnic group. Despite existing laws regulating the minimum age for marriage, enforcement remains problematic. The review of nine articles indicated that child marriage in Indonesia is influenced by beliefs, limited access to education, culture, environmental factors, and gaps in legal enforcement.

Marketing strategies to improve service quality at sports and fitness venues: a systematic review

The sports and fitness industry has seen accelerated growth with increasing public awareness about the relevance of health and well-being. Nowadays, facilities such as gyms, stadiums, swimming pools and fitness centers have become essential elements of lifestyle in society. Marketing strategies are important to attract and retain customers. The programs offered should be viewed as service products that have sales value. Therefore, implementing effective marketing strategies is necessary to compete, satisfy customer needs and increase customer loyalty. This research aims to conduct a systematic review of existing literature regarding marketing strategies for sports and fitness venues using the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) method. This study includes research published in the last 10 years from indexed journal sources and identifies important findings regarding the effectiveness of various marketing strategies in service and retaining customers. The research results shows that personalization of service, utilization of technology, deep understanding of customer needs, and high service quality are key strategies that can increase perceived value, satisfaction, and customer loyalty in the sports and fitness sector.

Abstract 4125076: Catheter Ablation Alone Versus Catheter Ablation With Combined Percutaneous Left Atrial Appendage Closure For Atrial Fibrillation: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Background: Combined catheter ablation (CA) with left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) may produce comprehensive treatment for atrial fibrillation (AF) whereby rhythm control is achieved and stroke risk is reduced without the need for chronic oral anticoagulation. However, the efficacy and safety of this strategy is still controversial. Aim: To investigate the efficacy and safety of a combined CA with LAAC approach to treat AF in patients moderate-to-high-risk for bleeding. Methods: This meta-analysis was reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Medline, Scopus, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were systematically searched to identify relevant studies. Risk of bias was assessed using the Modified Newcastle-Ottawa scale and Cochrane risk of bias tool. Eligible studies reported outcomes in patients with AF who underwent combined CA and LAAC versus CA alone. Studies performing CA without pulmonary vein isolation were excluded. Results: Eight studies comprising 1878 patients were included (2 RCT, 6 observational). Pooled results showed no difference in arrhythmia recurrence (risk ratio [RR] 1.05; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.84-1.30), stroke or systemic embolism (RR 0.71; 95% CI 0.26-1.94), total procedure time (mean difference 31.45 minutes; 95% CI -5.91-68.81), or major periprocedural complications (RR 1.28; 95% CI 0.28-5.89) when comparing combined CA and LAAC versus CA alone. Conclusion: Combined CA with LAAC for AF is associated with similar rates of arrhythmia free survival, stroke, major periprocedural complications, and procedure time when compared to CA alone. A combined strategy may be as safe and efficacious for patients moderate-to-high-risk for bleeding events to negate the need for chronic oral anticoagulation.

Exploring multimodal biomarker candidates of post-traumatic epilepsy following moderate to severe traumatic brain injury: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

This review systematically analyzes potential biomarker candidates for post-traumatic epilepsy (PTE) in humans who have experienced moderate to severe traumatic brain injury (TBI). Focusing on biomarkers across biofluid-based protein, genetic, neuroimaging, and neurophysiological categories, this review distinguishes between TBI patients who develop PTE and those who do not. The review adheres to established methodologies outlined in the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. Data presentation follows the Meta-analyses of Observational Studies (MOOSE) and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Medline, Embase, and Web of Science were systematically searched and yielded 7538 records, of which 18 met inclusion criteria (moderate-severe TBI in humans, follow-up of at least 6 months, and no prior history of epilepsy). The review aggregates data from 15 cohort and 3 case-control studies (risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale). Statistically significant biomarkers were identified, with neurophysiological biomarkers showing the strongest effect size in a two-study meta-analysis. PTE, a severe long-term outcome of TBI affecting 2% to 53% of individuals with TBI, lacks validated biomarkers for forecasting development, crucial for designing preventive clinical trials. A multimodal approach, integrating biofluid-based protein, genetic, neuroimaging, and neurophysiological data, offers a promising strategy to enhance the predictability of PTE development and, potentially, its treatment. The study's protocol is registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews PROSPERO (Registration ID: CRD42023470245).

Enhancing daily oral PrEP adherence with digital communications: Protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) stands as an effective tool in preventing HIV transmission among individuals at risk of HIV infection. However, the effectiveness of daily oral PrEP is contingent on the adherence of its users, which can pose a challenge for many individuals. Various studies have explored different interventions aimed at bolstering PrEP adherence. One recurring type of intervention revolves around digital communication (e.g., SMS, mobile applications) to send reminders for PrEP usage. The objective of our systematic review and meta-analysis is to address the following research question: What is the effectiveness of digital communication interventions in enhancing daily oral PrEP adherence among individuals at a heightened risk of HIV infection? This paper presents our study protocol. We will conduct searches across four health-related databases: Embase, PubMed, Web of Science, and PsycINFO. We will also explore other sources, including clinical trials registries and grey literature. Our search will be restricted to original randomized controlled trials published in English, French, and Spanish conducted since 2012, when PrEP was approved, to today. To ensure rigor, three reviewers will perform the systematic review and meta-analysis. This systematic review will adhere to the guidelines outlined in the 2020 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). Our primary outcome of interest is proper daily oral PrEP adherence, which we will measure using association metrics (e.g., odds ratios). This review will offer insights into the effectiveness of utilizing digital communication methods to assist individuals at risk of HIV in improving their PrEP adherence. International Prospective Register for Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) number CRD42023471269.

Myopia control strategies: A systematic review and meta-meta-analysis.

To summarise pooled estimates of the efficacies of various myopia control interventions, as drawn from published meta-analyses. PubMed, SCOPUS and Web of Science were searched from inception to February 2024 for systematic reviews and meta-analyses reporting treatment effects of various myopia control strategies. The qualities of the included meta-analyses were assessed using the 16-item A MeaSurement Tool to Assess systematic Reviews (AMSTAR) 2. An intervention was defined as having a clinically significant effect if it resulted in a change in spherical equivalent refraction (SER) of ≥0.50 D/year or axial length (AL) change of ≤-0.18 mm/year. A total of 38 studies were identified. The overall respective changes in SER and AL, mean difference (95% CI) were high-concentration (≥0.5%) atropine 0.67 D (0.58-0.77) and -0.24 mm (-0.36 to -0.11); moderate-concentration (>0.05% to <0.5%) atropine 0.48 D (0.34-0.62) and -0.23 mm (-0.27 to -0.19); low-concentration (0.01%, 0.025%, 0.05%) atropine 0.33 D (0.23-0.43) and -0.14 mm (-0.19 to -0.09); orthokeratology -0.47 mm (-0.66 to -0.28); peripheral plus soft contact lenses 0.30 D (0.18-0.42) and -0.35 mm (-0.62 to -0.08); peripheral plus spectacles 0.77 D (0.40-1.14) and -0.43 mm (-0.78 to -0.08); multifocal spectacles 0.21 D (0.11-0.31); repeated low-level red light therapy 0.55 D (0.46-0.65) and -0.25 mm (-0.29 to -0.20); outdoor time 0.17 D (0.16-0.18) and -0.04 mm (-0.06 to -0.01). High and moderate concentrations of atropine, orthokeratology, peripheral plus spectacles and repeated low-level red light demonstrated clinically significant effects on slowing AL elongation, while high and moderate concentrations of atropine, peripheral plus spectacles and repeated low-level red light demonstrated clinically significant effects on slowing SER progression.

Big Data Analytics And Predictive Analysis In Enhancing Customer Relationship Management (CRM): A Systematic Review Of Techniques And Tools

This systematic review examines the transformative role of big data analytics and predictive techniques in Customer Relationship Management (CRM), focusing on how these advancements enhance customer engagement, satisfaction, and retention strategies. Adhering to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, this review analyzed a final selection of 100 articles, exploring CRM applications such as predictive modeling, real-time data processing, data integration, and Natural Language Processing (NLP). Findings indicate that predictive analytics enables CRM systems to anticipate customer behaviors and personalize interactions, while real-time data processing supports immediate responses to customer needs, essential in high-demand sectors. Data integration helps overcome silos, creating a cohesive customer view that enhances personalized engagement across all touchpoints. NLP applications, including sentiment analysis and chatbots, further improve CRM by fostering empathy and responsiveness in customer interactions. Despite these advancements, challenges related to data privacy and regulatory compliance remain central, necessitating strict data protection and ethical handling practices. This review underscores that while CRM technology is evolving to meet modern demands, effective implementation depends on a balance between technical innovation and adherence to ethical standards in data management, ultimately fostering meaningful and sustainable customer relationships.

Advanced practice nursing in surgery: A scoping review of roles, responsibilities, and educational programs.

The increasing complexity of the healthcare sector requires an evolution in nursing education to effectively manage care in complex and interdisciplinary contexts. This review aims to analyze the role of advanced practice nurse (APN) in the surgical context within hospital settings, detailing their functions and responsibilities. It also provides an overview of the main degrees and postgraduate training programs for specialization in perioperative management in major Western countries. This scoping review followed the Arksey-O'Malley framework and Joanna Briggs Institute methodology. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) was used to ensure rigorous and transparent reporting. Among the 3663 records analyzed, 20 were included in this review. The role of the APN spans across the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative phases, encompassing follow-up care as leaders, mentors, and contributors to research. APNs play a pivotal role by offering direct and indirect patient care at each stage of the surgical journey. Acting as liaisons between the healthcare team and patients, APNs enhance healthcare delivery through personalized, coordinated care, while also fostering ongoing education and research in the field. APNs enhance surgical care by providing in-depth clinical assessments, education, and support throughout the treatment process. However, the lack of standardized regulatory frameworks in some countries limits the autonomy of APNs within the healthcare system, compromising their ability to address unmet health needs and engage in international collaboration. The findings underscore the need for standardized educational pathways, roles, responsibilities, and autonomy for APNs, facilitating better international collaboration and contributing to scientific research.

Integrating servitisation into the halal supply chain: a roadmap for sustainable business growth

Purpose The limited existing literature on the future research direction regarding how servitisation and the halal supply chain interact motivates this study. The paper aims to integrate servitisation into the halal supply chain by proposing an integration roadmap for successful adoption in the halal industry. Design/methodology/approach The study used the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses method. Initially, 1,830 documents from Scopus and Web of Science were reviewed. After screening and refining, 1,241 documents remained. The authors then assessed these in full text, narrowing it down to 61 papers for the study. Findings The study discovered that the literature concerning servitisation and halal supply chains lacks essential conceptualisation, presenting an opportunity for exploration within the halal industry. Furthermore, it revealed that integrating servitisation into the halal supply chain can foster sustainable business growth and enhance customer satisfaction. Additionally, the study indicated that the interaction between servitisation and the halal supply chain may impact customers’ purchasing decisions and improve profit generation performance. Practical implications The study confirmed that integrating servitisation into the halal supply chain is crucial. The proposed roadmap aims to enhance the firm’s service delivery performance and impact customer purchasing behaviour through increased brand loyalty. In terms of industrial implications, the study offers guidance for industries transitioning to servitisation. The integration of servitisation in the halal supply chain can enhance efficiency and the ability to provide halal products that align with customer preferences and requirements. Originality/value This study suggests integrating servitisation into halal supply chains and provides a roadmap for exploring future research directions towards sustainable business growth. It not only offers thematic research direction but also practical insights. The roadmap can guide future research and development, enhancing business efficiency and customer experiences. This study reveals the potential of servitisation in halal supply chains and encourages further research on their interaction.

International models of accreditation and certification for hospitals with a focus on nursing: a scoping review.

Quality assurance in hospitals is essential for ensuring patient safety, quality of care and efficiency. The nursing profession is a key contributor to healthcare quality, yet, a comprehensive overview and comparison of the role and scope of nursing as part of accreditation and certification schemes has been lacking. The aim was to identify if and to what extent international accreditation or certification schemes focus on nursing, and to compare their conceptual models and outcome indicators. A scoping review was conducted. A search strategy was developed together with a librarian and carried out in January 2024 in Medline, CINAHL, Web of Science Core Collection, Cochrane Reviews and Google Scholar. Additionally, authoritative websites of accreditation/certification holders were searched. Inclusion criteria were studies on international accreditation or certification schemes for hospital settings with relevance to nursing published in English or German. Screening and data analysis adhered to the Joanna Briggs Institute's methodology, with reporting following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews guideline (PRISMA-ScR). The search identified 17.315 records. After removing duplicates and screening of titles/abstracts, 336 full-texts remained. A total of 124 studies were included, identifying seven international accreditation/certification schemes: European Foundation for Quality Management, Evaluation and Quality Improvement Program, International Organization for Standardization 9001, Joint Commission International®, Magnet Recognition Program®, Pathway to Excellence® Program, Qmentum®. The different schemes ranged from nursing-specific to having no specific focus on, but relevance for, nursing and varied in their topics, focus on structure, process and outcome quality and structure and content of requirements. Additionally, outcome indicators varied, with differences in the extent to which indicators were nurse-sensitive, compulsoriness of data collection, and use of external benchmarking. The seven international schemes show large conceptual variations as to their focus on nursing and differences in the degree of nurse-specific outcome indicators. Hospital and nursing managers, policymakers, patients and the public need to understand the content and outcome dimensions of the schemes when making decisions or assessing hospital quality data.

How do social and gender norms influence the sexual and reproductive health of younger adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa? A scoping review protocol

Introduction Younger adolescents (aged 10–14 years) in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) have disproportionate sexual and reproductive health (SRH) outcomes due to structural, behavioural, socioeconomic and other factors. Social and gender norms have important consequences for the SRH and wellbeing of younger adolescents both now and over their life course. SRH programming often focuses on older adolescents (aged 15–19 years), overlooking younger ones. This scoping review sets out to explore how gender and social norms influence younger adolescents’ SRH in SSA, to inform tailored interventions. Methods The Arksey and O'Malley strategy will be used to review the available literature. Online databases (PubMed/MEDLINE, CINHAL, EMBASE, PsycINFO, Cochrane Library, and African Index Medicus) will be searched for original studies published between 1 January 2000 and 30 September 2024. Further, a manual search to include relevant grey literature will be performed. The steps in the review are: 1) defining the research question, 2) identifying relevant studies, 3) selecting studies, 4) charting the data, and 5) collating, summarising, and reporting the results. Results Findings will be reported in accordance with the guidance provided in the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Protocols (PRISMA-P) statement. Discussion The review will generate the most up-to-date evidence and identify gaps in literature in addition to informing future research on how gender and social norms influence younger adolescents’ SRH in SSA. Findings will inform and influence future interventions and evaluations in this area.