Are behavioral interventions a better choice for atopic dermatitis patients? A meta-analysis of 6 randomized controlled trials

Abstract Background The treatment for atopic dermatitis (AD) has been the focus of clinical research, and behavioral intervention is considered an indispensable treatment method. To our knowledge, no relevant meta-analysis has evaluated the effects of behavioral interventions on atopic dermatitis. Objectives To evaluate the effects of behavioral interventions on atopic dermatitis. Methods The authors searched PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane CENTRAL to retrieve relevant RCTs (up to Feb 2022). The search strategy involved a combination of related keywords. The Cochrane Q and I2 statistics were used to assess heterogeneity. Results Six RCTs involving seven reports with 246 patients were included. The results suggested that behavioral interventions could relieve eczema severity (correlation coefficient [r = −0.39]; p < 0.001) and scratching severity significantly (r = −0.19; p = 0.017), while not affect itching intensity (r = −0.02; p = 0.840). A sensitivity analysis confirmed the robustness of the results. Study limitations An important limitation of this study was the insufficient number of RCTs and the limited sample size. In addition, the study lacked a control group receiving a type of intervention other than the experimental protocol. Another limitation was the short duration of follow-up. Conclusions This study suggests that behavioral interventions could be effective in treating atopic dermatitis by reducing eczema and scratching severity. Additionally, habit-reversal behavioral therapy may be more effective for treating atopic dermatitis.

Adesão ao tratamento medicamentoso anti-hipertensivo no Brasil: revisão sistemática e meta-análise / Adherence to antihypertensive drug treatment in Brazil: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Resumo O objetivo do artigo é avaliar a prevalência de adesão ao tratamento anti-hipertensivo na população brasileira, com base nos estudos revisados por pares, que utilizaram instrumentos elaborados e/ou adaptados exclusivamente para este fim. Revisão sistemática com meta-análise, baseada nas recomendações do Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). A busca foi realizada nas bases BDENF, SciELO, Cuiden, PsycINFOe, CINAHL, Embase, LILACS, MEDLINE, e nos buscadores acadêmicos AgeLine, Google Scholar e ScienceDirect. O protocolo foi registrado no PROSPERO (CRD42021292689). Modelos de efeitos aleatórios foram usados para meta-análise das prevalências obtidas dos estudos individuais. Incluíram-se 104 estudos na meta-análise sobre tratamento anti-hipertensivo na população brasileira, totalizando 38.299 pacientes. O instrumento mais utilizado foi o teste de Morisky-Green de quatro itens (49,5%). A prevalência de adesão estimada pela foi de 44,4% (IC95%: 39,12%-49,94%, I2 = 91,17, p < 0,001), apresentando alta heterogeneidade. A prevalência de adesão ao tratamento anti-hipertensivo encontrada nos estudos nacionais foi insatisfatória, demonstrando que essa problemática continua sendo um grande desafio.

Abstract This article aims to evaluate the adherence to antihypertensive treatment prevalence in the Brazilian population based on peer-reviewed studies which used instruments exclusively designed and/or adapted for this purpose. A systematic review with meta-analysis based on the recommendations of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). The search was carried out in the BDENF, SciELO, Cuiden, PsycINFOe, CINAHL, Embase, LILACS, and MEDLINE databases, as well as the AgeLine, Google Scholar and ScienceDirect academic search engines. The protocol was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42021292689). Random effects models were used for a meta-analysis of the prevalence obtained from individual studies. A total of 104 studies were included in the meta-analysis on antihypertensive treatment in the Brazilian population, totaling 38,299 patients. The most used instrument was the four-item Morisky-Green Test (49.5%). The adherence prevalence estimated by the meta-analysis was 44.4% (95%CI: 39.12%-49.94%, I2 = 91.17, p < 0.001), showing high heterogeneity. The adherence to antihypertensive treatment prevalence found in national studies was unsatisfactory, demonstrating that this problem continues to be a major challenge.

Intraoperative computed tomography for detection of residual stones in endourology procedures: systematic review and meta-analysis

ABSTRACT Background: Success rates in endourological procedures, notably percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) and ureteroscopy (URS), have demonstrated suboptimal outcomes, leading to more reinterventions and radiation exposure. Recently, the use of intraoperative computed tomography (ICT) scans has been hypothesized as a promising solution for improving outcomes in endourology procedures. With this considered, we conducted a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis encompassing all available studies that evaluate the impact of the use of intraoperative CT scans on surgical outcomes compared to conventional fluoroscopic-guided procedures. Methods: This systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Multiple databases were systematically searched up to December of 2023. This study aimed to directly compare the use of an ICT scan with the standard non-ICT-guided procedure. The primary endpoint of interest was success rate, and the secondary endpoints were complications and reintervention rates, while radiation exposure was also evaluated. Data extraction and quality assessment were performed following Cochrane recommendations. Data was presented as an Odds ratio with 95%CI across trials and a random-effects model was selected for pooling of data. Results: A comprehensive search yielded 533 studies, resulting in the selection of 3 cohorts including 327 patients (103 ICT vs 224 in non-ICT). Primary outcome was significantly higher in the experimental group versus the control group (84.5% vs 41.4% respectively, 307 patients; 95% CI [3.61, 12.72]; p<0.00001; I2=0). Reintervention rates also decreased from 32.6% in the control to 12.6% in the ICT group (OR 0.34; 95%CI [0.12,0.94]; p =0.04; I2= 48%), whereas complication rates did not exhibit significant differences. Radiation exposure was also significantly reduced in two of the included studies. Conclusion: This meta-analysis highlights a favorable outcome with intraoperative CT scan use in PCNL procedures, showing a considerable increase in SFR when compared to standard fluoroscopy and nephroscopy. Despite limited studies, our synthesis underscores the potential of ICT scans to significantly reduce residual stones and their consequences for endourology patients, as reinterventions and follow-up ionizing radiation studies.

Effect of recorded mother's voice on emergence delirium in pediatric patients: a systematic review with meta-analysis

Abstract Objective: Emergence delirium is a common complication in children. Recorded mother's voice, as a non-pharmacological measure, is increasingly used to prevent the emergence of delirium in pediatric patients, but sufficient evidence is still needed to prove its efficacy. Methods: Embase, PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, CINAHL, and Sinomed databases were searched for randomized controlled trials exploring the efficacy of recorded mother's voice in preventing the emergence of delirium in pediatric patients undergoing general anesthesia. The original data were pooled for the meta-analysis with Review Manager 5.4.1. This study was conducted based on the Cochrane Review Methods. Results: Eight studies with 724 children were included in the analysis. Recorded mother's voice reduced the incidence of emergence delirium when compared with either no voice (RR: 0.45; [95 % CI, 0.34 - 0.61]; p < 0.01; I2 = 7 %) or stranger's voice (RR: 0.51; [95 % CI, 0.28 - 0.91]; p = 0.02; I2 = 38 %) without increasing other untoward reactions. In addition, it shortened the post-anesthesia care unit stay time when compared with no voice (MD = -5.64; [95 % CI, -8.43 to -2.58]; p < 0.01, I2 = 0 %), but not stranger's voice (MD = -1.23; [95 % CI, -3.08 to 0.63]; p = 0.19, I2 = 0 %). It also shortened the extubation time and reduced the incidence of postoperative rescue analgesia. Conclusion: The current analysis indicated that recorded mother's voices could reduce the incidence of emergency delirium, shorten post-anesthesia care unit stay time and extubation time, and decrease the incidence of postoperative rescue analgesia in children.

Immunomodulation as a Treatment for Parkinson´s Disease in Current Trials: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

ABSTRACT Background: Immunomodulatory drugs and immunotherapies are being evaluated in clinical trials for the treatment of neuroinflammation, as the latter is an essential mechanism for the development and progression of Parkinson´s disease. Objective: The objective of the study is to review recent evidence on the evaluation of immunomodulators in randomized controlled clinical trials measuring improvement of motor symptoms. Methods: A meta-analysis of Movement Disorder Society-Unified Parkinson´s disease Rating Scale (MDS-UPDRS III) scores extracted from seven articles selected after an online search of PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Clarivate's Web of Science for randomized controlled clinical trials published between 2000 and July 2023 was performed. The selected articles reported clinical trials evaluating the effects of specific immunomodulators or treatments with known effects on the immune system and inflammation. MDS-UPDRS III scores were reported in these studies, and the results of the placebo groups were compared with those of the treatment groups. Results: A total of 590 patients treated with immunomodulators and 622 patients treated with placebo were included. A test for heterogeneity yielded an I2 value > 50%. The mean standard difference for change in MDS-UPDR III score was −0.46 (CI [95%] = −0.90 - −0.02, p < 0.01). No significant differences were found in the change in mean MDS-UPDR III score between the treatment and placebo groups; however, two studies showed a trend toward separation from the mean. Conclusion: The immunomodulatory treatments included in this study showed no efficacy in improving motor symptoms in Parkinson´s disease patients. Further clinical trials with larger patient populations are needed.

Levosimendana e Fibrilação Atrial: Uma Metanálise de Ensaios Clínicos Randomizados / Levosimendan and Atrial Fibrillation: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Resumo Fundamento A fibrilação atrial (FA) é uma complicação prevalente associada à levosimendana; no entanto, permanece incerto se existem disparidades nos efeitos da levosimendana na FA não pós-operatória e pós-operatória. Objetivos Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar o efeito da levosimendana na FA não pós-operatória e pós-operatória conduzindo uma metanálise de ensaios clínicos randomizados (ECR). Métodos PubMed, Embase, Biblioteca Cochrane e outras bases de dados foram pesquisadas. Pares de revisores identificaram ECRs que compararam levosimendana e placebo ou outras terapias, e os resultados relataram dados de eventos de FA. Foram utilizados modelos de efeitos aleatórios (com nível de significância de 5%). Resultados Foram incluídos 29 ensaios elegíveis compreendendo 6.550 participantes, onze dos quais avaliaram a incidência de FA não pós-operatória e 18 incluíram FA pós-operatória. A análise revelou que a levosimendana elevou significativamente o risco de FA no grupo não pós-operatório (OR, 1,62; IC 95%: 1,19-2,20; p=0,002) e reduziu a incidência de FA no grupo pós-operatório (OR, 0,65; IC 95%: 0,44-0,96; p=0,03). A ocorrência de FA diminuiu mais significativamente em pacientes que usaram levosimendana após cirurgia cardíaca (OR, 0,53; IC 95%: 0,32-0,88; p=0,02) do que em pacientes que usaram levosimendana antes da cirurgia cardíaca (OR, 0,67; IC 95%: 0,42-1,06; p=0,09). O risco de FA foi significativamente elevado pela grande dose em bolus de levosimendana (dose em bolus ≥12 μg/kg) (OR, 1,44; IC 95%: 1,10-1,88; p=0,004) e diminuído pela pequena dose em bolus de levosimendana (dose em bolus <12 μg/kg) (OR, 0,64; IC 95%: 0,34-1,20; p=0,16). Conclusão A levosimendana foi associada a um aumento da incidência de FA não pós-operatória. O emprego da levosimendana foi eficaz na prevenção da FA pós-operatória.

Abstract Background Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a prevalent complication associated with levosimendan; however, it remains uncertain whether there are any disparities in the effects of levosimendan on non-postoperative and postoperative AF. Objectives This study aimed to evaluate the levosimendan effect on non-postoperative and postoperative AF by conducting a meta-analysis of randomized control trials (RCTs). Methods PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and other databases were searched. Pairs of reviewers identified RCTs that compared levosimendan and placebo or other therapies, and the results reported AF events data. Random effects models were used (at a significance level of 5%). Results Twenty-nine eligible trials comprising 6550 participants were included, eleven of which evaluated the non-postoperative AF incidence, and 18 included postoperative AF. The analysis revealed that levosimendan elevated the AF risk significantly in the non-postoperative group (OR, 1.62; 95% CI: 1.19-2.20; p=0.002) and reduced the AF incidence in the postoperative group (OR, 0.65; 95% CI: 0.44-0.96; p=0.03). AF occurrence decreased more significantly in patients who used levosimendan after cardiac surgery (OR, 0.53; 95% CI: 0.32-0.88; p=0.02) than in patients who used levosimendan before cardiac surgery (OR, 0.67; 95% CI: 0.42-1.06; p=0.09). Moreover, The AF risk was significantly elevated by levosimendan large bolus dose (bolus dose≥12 μg/kg) (OR, 1.44; 95% CI: 1.10-1.88; p=0.004) and decreased by small bolus dose of levosimendan (bolus dose<12 μg/kg) (OR, 0.64; 95% CI: 0.34-1.20; p=0.16). Conclusion Levosimendan was linked to an increased non-postoperative AF incidence. The employment of levosimendan was effective in preventing postoperative AF.

Network meta-analysis of pembrolizumab as monotherapy and in combination with chemotherapy for first-line treatment of recurrent or metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma / Metanálise em rede comparativa de pembrolizumabe como monoterapia e em combinação com quimioterapia para tratamento de primeira linha de carcinoma de células escamosas da cabeça e pescoço recorrente ou metastático

Pembrolizumab monotherapy or in combination with chemotherapy is approved as first-line treatment in recurrent/metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (R/M HNSCC) based on improved overall survival (OS) versus EXTREME regimen in the KEYNOTE-048 trial. The clinical outcomes of pembrolizumab were compared with other recommended first-line treatments in R/M HNSCC in this study through a Bayesian network meta-analysis. A systematic literature review was conducted in July 2022, from which six trials that matched the KEYNOTE-048 patient eligibility criteria were included in the network. The OS and progression-free survival (PFS) outcomes were compared in the approved pembrolizumab indication (i.e., total population for pembrolizumab in combination with chemotherapy and combined positive score [CPS] ≥ 1 population for pembrolizumab monotherapy). A significant OS improvement was observed for pembrolizumab in combination with chemotherapy and pembrolizumab monotherapy versus EXTREME regimen (hazard ratio, 95% credible interval: 0.72, 0.60-0.86; 0.73, 0.60-0.88), platinum+5- FU (0.58, 0.43-0.76; 0.58, 0.44-0.78), and platinum+paclitaxel (0.53, 0.35-0.79; 0.53, 0.35-0.81), respectively. A non-significant numeric trend in OS improvement was observed versus the TPEx regimen. PFS was comparable with most first-line treatments and was improved versus platinum+5-FU (0.48, 0.36-0.64; 0.59, 0.45-0.79). Additional analyses in higher CPS subgroups also showed consistent results. Overall, our study results showed an improvement in OS outcomes versus alternative first-line treatments, consistent with the findings of the KEYNOTE-048 trial. These data support using pembrolizumab as a suitable firstline treatment option in R/M HNSCC.

Pembrolizumabe em monoterapia ou em combinação com quimioterapia é aprovado como tratamento de primeira linha em carcinoma de células escamosas recorrente/metastático de cabeça e pescoço (CECCP R/M) com base na melhora da sobrevida global (OS), em comparação com o esquema EXTREME no estudo KEYNOTE-048. Esse estudo comparou os resultados clínicos de pembrolizumabe com outros tratamentos recomendados de primeira linha em CECCP R/M por meio de uma metanálise de rede bayesiana. Uma revisão sistemática da literatura foi conduzida em julho de 2022, a partir da qual seis ensaios clínicos que atendiam aos critérios de elegibilidade de pacientes do KEYNOTE-048 foram incluídos na rede. Os desfechos de OS e sobrevida livre de progressão (PFS) foram comparados na indicação de pembrolizumabe (população total para pembrolizumabe em combinação com quimioterapia e população com escore positivo combinado [CPS] ≥ 1 em monoterapia com pembrolizumabe). Foi observada melhora significativa na OS para pembrolizumabe em combinação com quimioterapia e monoterapia com pembrolizumabe versus o esquema EXTREME (razão de risco, intervalo de confiança de 95%: 0,72, 0,60-0,86; 0,73, 0,60-0,88), platina+5-FU (0,58, 0,43-0,76; 0,58, 0,44-0,78) e platina+paclitaxel (0,53, 0,35-0,79; 0,53, 0,35-0,81), respectivamente. Uma tendência numérica não significativa de melhoria na OS foi observada em relação ao esquema TPEx. A PFS foi comparável com a maioria dos tratamentos de primeira linha e melhor em relação à platina+5-FU (0,48, 0,36-0,64; 0,59, 0,45-0,79). Análises adicionais em subgrupos com CPS mais elevado também mostraram resultados consistentes. No geral, os resultados de nosso estudo mostraram melhora nos desfechos de OS em comparação aos tratamentos de primeira linha alternativos, consistentes com os achados do estudo KEYNOTE-048. Esses dados apoiam o uso de pembrolizumabe como opção de tratamento em primeira linha em pacientes com CECCP R/M.

Do statins decrease testosterone in men? Systematic review and meta-analysis

ABSTRACT Purpose: Statins are one of the most prescribed classes of drugs worldwide to treat hypercholesterolemia and dyslipidemia. By lowering the level of cholesterol, the use of statin could cause a reduction in testosterone levels. The objective was to evaluate whether the continued use of statins in patients with hypercholesterolemia causes a deficiency in testosterone and other sex hormones. Materials and Methods: Systematic Review with Meta-analysis, performed in Embase, Medline and Cochrane databases, until May 2023; PROSPERO CRD42021270424protocol. Selection performed by two independent authors with subsequent conference in stages. Methodology based on PRISMA statement. There were selected comparative studies, prospective cohorts (CP), randomized clinical trials (RCT) and cross-sectional studies (CSS) with comparison of testosterone levels before and after statin administration and between groups. Bias analysis were evaluated with Cochrane Tool, The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS), and using the Assess the Quality of Cross-sectional studies (AXIS) tool. Results: There were found on MedLine, Embase and Cochrane, after selected comparative studies, 10CP and 6RCT and 6CSS for the meta-analysis. In the Forrest plot with 6CSS, a correlation between patients with continuous use of statins and a reduction in total testosterone was evidenced with a statistically significant reduction of 55.02ng/dL (95%CI=[39.40,70.64],I²=91%,p<0.00001). In the analysis with 5RCT, a reduction in the mean total testosterone in patients who started continuous statin use was evidenced, with a statistical significance of 13.12ng/dL (95%CI=[1.16,25.08],I²=0%,p=0.03). Furthermore, the analysis of all prospective studies with 15 articles showed a statistically significant reduction in the mean total testosterone of 9.11 ng/dL (95%CI=[0.16,18.06],I²=37%,p=0.04). A reduction in total testosterone has been shown in most studies and in its accumulated analysis after statin use. However, this decrease was not enough to reach levels below normal. Conclusion: Statins use causes a decrease in total testosterone, not enough to cause a drop below the normal range and also determines increase in FSH levels. No differences were found in LH, Estradiol, SHBG and Free Testosterone analysis.

Ablação por Cateter para Fibrilação Atrial em Pacientes com Fração de Ejeção do Ventrículo Esquerdo ≤ 45%: Uma Metanálise de Ensaios Clínicos Randomizados / Catheter Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation in Patients with Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction ≤ 45%: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Resumo Fundamento A fibrilação atrial (FA) e a insuficiência cardíaca (IC) coexistem frequentemente, resultando em desfechos adversos. No entanto, permanecem controvérsias quanto à eficácia da ablação por cateter (AC) em pacientes com FA com disfunção ventricular esquerda grave. Objetivos O objetivo deste estudo foi realizar uma metanálise de ensaios prospectivos randomizados e controlados para avaliar a eficácia da AC versus terapia médica (TM) em pacientes com FA com fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo (FEVE) ≤45%. Métodos Procuramos na literatura estudos que comparassem AC com TM em pacientes com FA com FEVE ≤45%. Foi realizada uma metanálise de 7 ensaios clínicos, incluindo 1.163 pacientes com FA e IC. A análise de subgrupo foi realizada com base na FEVE basal. Todos os testes foram bilaterais; apenas o valor p <0,05 foi considerado estatisticamente significativo. Resultados Descobrimos que a AC estava associada a menor mortalidade por todas as causas (taxa de risco: 0,52, IC 95%: 0,37 a 0,72; p<0,01) e maiores melhorias na FEVE (diferença média: 4,80%, IC 95%: 2,29% a 7,31%; p<0,01) em comparação com TM. Os pacientes do grupo AC apresentaram menor risco de hospitalização por IC e recorrência de FA e qualidade de vida significativamente melhor do que aqueles do grupo TM. Os resultados da análise de subgrupo indicaram que pacientes com disfunção ventricular esquerda mais leve melhoraram a FEVE após a ablação de FA (diferença média: 6,53%, IC 95%: 6,18% a 6,88%; p<0,01) em comparação com pacientes com doença mais grave (diferença média : 2,02%, IC 95%: 0,87% a 3,16%; p<0,01). Conclusões Nossa metanálise demonstrou que a AC foi associada a melhorias significativas nos resultados de pacientes com FA com FEVE ≤45%. Além disso, pacientes com FA com disfunção ventricular esquerda mais leve poderiam se beneficiar mais com a AC.

Abstract Background Atrial fibrillation (AF) and heart failure (HF) frequently coexist, resulting in adverse outcomes. However, controversies remain regarding the efficacy of catheter ablation (CA) in AF patients with severe left ventricular dysfunction. Objectives The purpose of this study was to perform a meta-analysis of prospective randomized controlled trials to evaluate the efficacy of CA versus medical therapy (MT) in AF patients with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≤45%. Methods We searched the literature for studies that compared CA to MT in AF patients with LVEF ≤45%. A meta-analysis of 7 clinical trials was performed, including 1163 patients with AF and HF. Subgroup analysis was performed based on baseline LVEF. All tests were 2-sided; only the p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results We found that CA was associated with lower all-cause mortality (risk ratio: 0.52, 95% CI: 0.37 to 0.72; p<0.01) and greater improvements in LVEF (mean difference: 4.80%, 95% CI: 2.29% to 7.31%; p<0.01) compared to MT. Patients in the CA group had a lower risk of HF hospitalization and AF recurrence and a significantly better quality of life than those in the MT group. The results of subgroup analysis indicated that patients with milder left ventricular dysfunction improved LVEF after AF ablation (mean difference: 6.53%, 95% CI: 6.18% to 6.88%; p<0.01) compared to patients with more severe disease (mean difference: 2.02%, 95% CI: 0.87% to 3.16%; p<0.01). Conclusions Our meta-analysis demonstrated that CA was associated with significant improvements in outcomes of AF patients with LVEF ≤45%. Additionally, AF patients with milder left ventricular dysfunction could benefit more from CA.

Comparing Balloon Dilation to Non-Balloon Dilation for Access in Ultrasound-Guided Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

ABSTRACT Purpose: This study aims to evaluate the safety and efficacy of ultrasound-guided balloon dilation compared to non-balloon dilation for percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). Materials and methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted by searching PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library. Results were filtered using predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria as described and meta-analysis was performed using Review Manager 5.4 software. Results: A total of six studies involving 1189 patients who underwent PCNL were included. The meta-analysis results demonstrated that compared to non-balloon dilation, balloon dilation was associated with reduced haemoglobin drop [mean difference (MD) = -0.26, 95% CI = -0.40 ~ -0.12, P = 0.0002], decreased transfusion rate [odds ratio (OR) = 0.47, 95% CI = 0.24 ~ 0.92, P = 0.03], shorter tract establishment time (MD = -1.30, 95% CI = -1.87 ~ -0.72, P < 0.0001) and shorter operation time (MD = -5.23, 95% CI = -10.19 ~ -0.27, P = 0.04). Conclusions: Overall, ultrasound-guided balloon dilatation offered several advantages in PCNL procedures. It facilitated faster access establishment, as evidenced by shorter access creation time. Additionally, it reduced the risk of kidney injury by minimizing postoperative haemoglobin drop and decreasing the need for transfusions. Moreover, it enhanced the efficiency of surgery by reducing the operation time. However, it is important to note that the quality of some included studies was subpar, as they did not adequately control for confounding factors that may affect the outcomes. Therefore, further research is necessary to validate and strengthen these findings.

Effect of severe weather on road traffic injuries：a meta-analysis / 公共卫生与预防医学

Objective To explore the impact of severe weather on road traffic injuries (RTIs). Methods Relevant literature on the impact of meteorology on the occurrence and resulting casualties of road traffic injuries was searched. Meta-analysis was performed on the included literature using state16.0 software. Results A total of 28 articles were included. The results of meta-analysis showed that heat wave, cloudy day, snowy day, rainy day and other severe weather such as storm had a statistically significant impact on the occurrence of road traffic injuries. Severe weather such as storms had a statistically significant impact on RTIs casualties. Conclusion Heat wave, cloudy day, snowy day, rainy day, storm and other bad weather are independent risk factors for the occurrence of RTIs. Storm is a risk factor for accident casualties. There is not enough evidence to show that low temperature, cold wave and heavy fog are the influencing factors of road traffic accidents.

Meta-analysis of efficacy and safety of aspirin versus other anticoagulants in the prevention of thromboembolism after orthopedic surgery / 中国药房

OBJECTIVE To evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of aspirin versus other anticoagulants in the prevention of thromboembolism after orthopedic surgery. METHODS Retrieved from PubMed， Embase， the Cochrane Library， CNKI， Wanfang data and VIP， randomized controlled trials （RCTs） and cohort studies about aspirin （trial group） versus other anticoagulants （control group） were collected during the inception and June 1st， 2023. After literature screening， data extraction and quality evaluation， the meta-analysis was conducted by using RevMan 5.4 software. RESULTS A total of 22 studies were included， involving 9 RCTs and 13 cohort studies. RCT results showed that the incidences of deep vein thrombosis （DVT） [RR＝1.81， 95%CI（1.36， 2.40）， P＜0.000 1] and postoperative pulmonary embolism （PE） [RR＝1.55， 95%CI（1.01， 2.40）， P＝0.05] in trial group were significantly higher than control group. There was no statistically significant difference in the incidences of postoperative massive bleeding， postoperative surgical site infection， all-cause death， or any bleeding after surgery between 2 groups. In the cohort study， the incidence of any bleeding in trial group was significantly lower than control group [RR＝0.71，95%CI （0.64， 0.79）， P＜0.000 1]， while the differences in other indicators were not statistically significant （P＞0.05）. The results of subgroup analysis based on different anticoagulants showed that in RCT， the incidences of DVT and PE after surgery in patients using low-molecular-weight heparin （LMWH） were significantly lower than using aspirin （P＜0.05）； in the cohort study， the incidences of DVT and PE after surgery were significantly lower in patients using direct oral anticoagulants （DOAC） than using aspirin （P＜0.05）. There was no statistically significant difference in the incidence of major bleeding between patients using aspirin and using DOAC and LWMH （P＞0.05） in both RCT and cohort study. CONCLUSIONS Aspirin is equally safe as other anticoagulants for the prevention of thromboembolism after orthopedic surgery， but its efficacy may not be as good as other anticoagulants. After orthopedic surgery， other anticoagulants should be preferred to prevent venous thromboembolism， and aspirin should be carefully considered.

Meta-analysis of the efficacy and safety of Saccharomyces boulardii versus Bifidobacterium triple live bacteria in the treatment of pediatric diarrhea / 中国药房

OBJECTIVE To compare the efficacy and safety of Saccharomyces boulardii and Bifidobacterium triple live bacteria in the treatment of pediatric diarrhea. METHODS Retrieved from PubMed， Embase， the Cochrane Library， CBM， Wanfang data， CNKI and VIP， randomized controlled trials （RCTs） about S. boulardii （S. boulardii group） versus Bifidobacterium triple liver bacteria （Bifidobacterium group） were collected. After screening the literature， extracting data and evaluating the quality， meta-analysis was performed by using RevMan 5.3 software. RESULTS A total of 9 RCTs were included， involving 898 patients. Results of meta-analysis showed there was no statistical significance in total response rate [OR＝1.69， 95%CI （0.93， 3.09）， P＝0.09]， duration of diarrhea [MD＝－1.39， 95%CI （－3.35， 0.57）， P＝0.16]， the time of abdominal pain disappearance [MD＝0.09， 95%CI（－0.87， 1.05），P＝0.86] or the incidence of adverse reactions [OR＝0.65， 95%CI （0.05， 8.03）， P＝0.74]. The number of stools in S. boulardii group was significantly less than Bifidobacterium group [MD＝－0.91， 95%CI （－1.80， －0.02）， P＝0.04]. The results of subgroup analysis showed that the duration of diarrhea in children with antibiotic-associated diarrhea in S. boulardii group was significantly shorter than Bifidobacterium group （P＜0.05）. CONCLUSIONS The efficacy and safety of S. boulardii are similar to those of Bifidobacterium in the treatment of diarrhea， but S. boulardii is better than Bifidobacterium in terms of stool number， the duration of diarrhea in children with antibiotic-associated diarrhea.

Meta-analysis of Distribution Frequency of Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome in Primary Osteoporosis / 中国实验方剂学杂志

ObjectiveTo systematically evaluate the distribution of traditional Chinese medicine（TCM） syndromes of primary osteoporosis（POP） in China by using evidence-based medicine methods， and to understand the distribution law of the syndromes. MethodChina National Knowledge Infrastructure（CNKI）， VIP Chinese Science and Technology Journal Database（VIP）， WanFang Data Knowledge Service Platform（WanFang） and China Biology Medicine（CBM） were searched to obtain representative literature， and each database was searched from the 1994 World Health Organization defined diagnostic criteria for osteoporosis until May 1， 2023. Two researchers independently screened literature according to the criteria， extracted data， and cross-checked them. Meta analysis was conducted using R4.1.3， and subgroup analysis was performed. ResultA total of 56 Chinese papers were included， involving 14 415 patients. After standardized classification of syndromes， 11 articles were excluded， and Meta analysis results of the ultimately included 45 Chinese articles showed that the distribution frequencies of liver-kidney Yin deficiency syndrome， spleen-kidney Yang deficiency syndrome and kidney deficiency and blood stasis syndrome in 12 723 patients were 27%［95% confidence interval（CI） 0.24-0.31］， 32%（95% CI 0.29-0.36）， 36%（95% CI 0.30-0.42）. Subgroup analysis showed that there was a statistically significant difference in the distribution of the three TCM syndromes in the north and south（P<0.05）. In addition， the incidence of TCM syndrome fractures in different types of POP was 15%（95% CI 0.09-0.24） for liver-kidney Yin deficiency syndrome， 20%（95% CI 0.12-0.30） for spleen-kidney Yang deficiency syndrome， and 31%（95% CI 0.25-0.39） for kidney deficiency and blood stasis syndrome. ConclusionThe distribution of syndromes in POP patients is mainly kidney deficiency， accompanied by liver and spleen dysfunction. Liver-kidney Yin deficiency syndrome， spleen-kidney Yang deficiency syndrome and kidney deficiency and blood stasis syndrome are all the main syndromes of POP and osteoporotic fractures， and kidney deficiency and blood stasis syndrome is most closely related to the development of osteoporotic fractures. The reference standards for syndrome determination among the included studies are inconsistent， and in the future， it is necessary to focus on their determination standards to obtain consensus research results， at the same time， conduct large-scale syndrome research to obtain representative research results， providing a basis for clinical practice and research.

Efficacy of percutaneous transhepatic variceal embolization alone or in combination with partial splenic embolization in treatment of portal hypertensive hemorrhage in liver cirrhosis： A Meta-analysis / 临床肝胆病杂志

ObjectiveTo investigate the efficacy of percutaneous transhepatic variceal embolization （PTVE） alone or in combination with partial splenic embolization （PSE） in the treatment of portal hypertensive hemorrhage in liver cirrhosis through a meta-analysis. MethodsThis study was conducted according to PRISMA guideline， with a PROSPERO registration number of CRD42023396690. Wanfang Med Online， CNKI， CBM， VIP Databases， PubMed， Embase， the Cochrane Library， and Web of Science databases were searched for articles on PTVE alone or in combination with PSE in the treatment of portal hypertensive hemorrhage in liver cirrhosis published up to December 23， 2022. The articles were selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria， and related data were extracted. The RevMan 5.4.1 statistical analysis software was used to perform the meta-analysis. ResultsEight articles were finally included， with a total sample size of 592 cases， among which there were 316 cases in the PTVE+PSE group and 276 cases in the PTVE group. The meta-analysis showed that compared with the PTVE group， the PTVE+PSE group had significantly lower postoperative portal vein pressure （standardized mean difference ［SMD］=-1.75， 95% confidence interval ［CI］： -2.33 to -1.16， P<0.05）， postoperative diameter of the portal vein （SMD=-0.87， 95%CI： -1.64 to -0.10， P<0.05）， postoperative rebleeding rate （odds ratio ［OR］=0.17， 95%CI： 0.11 — 0.28， P<0.05）， mortality rate （OR=0.13， 95%CI： 0.04 — 0.37， P<0.05）， and incidence rate of postoperative portal hypertensive gastrointestinal disease （OR=0.17， 95%CI： 0.07 — 0.45， P<0.05］， as well as a significantly higher postoperative platelet level （SMD=0.79， 95%CI： 0.52 — 1.06， P<0.05）， while there were no significant differences between the two groups in the incidence rates of postoperative ascites. ConclusionCompared with PTVE alone， PTVE combined with PSE can effectively reduce the rebleeding rate and mortality rate of portal hypertensive hemorrhage in liver cirrhosis， the incidence rate of portal hypertensive gastrointestinal disease， and portal vein pressure， and it can also shorten the diameter of the portal vein and increase platelet level. Therefore， it is an effective interventional method for the treatment of portal hypertension hemorrhage in liver cirrhosis.

Efficacy and safety of omental wrapping technique for pancreaticojejunal anastomosis in preventing complications after pancreaticoduodenectomy： A Meta-analysis / 临床肝胆病杂志

ObjectiveTo systematically evaluate the efficacy and safety of omental wrapping technique for pancreaticojejunal anastomosis in preventing complications after pancreaticoduodenectomy. MethodsThis study was conducted according to the PRISMA guideline. English and Chinese databases including CNKI， Wanfang Data， VIP， CBM， the Cochrane Library， PubMed， Embase， and Web of Science were searched for clinical studies on omental wrapping technique for pancreaticojejunal anastomosis in preventing complications after pancreaticoduodenectomy published up to November 2022， and Stata 16 and Review Manager 5.4 were used to perform the meta-analysis. ResultsA total of 15 studies with 1 830 patients were included in this study. The meta-analysis showed that the omental wrapping group had a significantly lower overall incidence rate of postoperative pancreatic fistula （POPF） than the non-omental wrapping group （odds ratio ［OR］=0.30， 95% confidence interval ［CI］： 0.22‍ ‍—‍ ‍0.41， P<0.001）， and the subgroup analysis showed that the omental wrapping group had a significantly lower incidence rate of grade B/C POPF than the non-omental wrapping group （OR=0.29， 95%CI： 0.21‍ ‍—‍ ‍0.39， P<0.001）. Compared with the non-omental wrapping group， the omental wrapping group had significantly lower incidence rates of postoperative bile leakage （OR=0.30， 95%CI： 0.16‍ ‍—‍ ‍0.56， P<0.001）， postoperative hemorrhage （OR=0.35， 95%CI： 0.24‍ ‍—‍ ‍0.53， P<0.001）， delayed gastric emptying （OR=0.45， 95%CI： 0.31‍ ‍—‍ ‍0.64， P<0.001）， abdominal infection （OR=0.55， 95%CI： 0.40‍ ‍—‍ ‍0.75， P<0.001）， reoperation （OR=0.31， 95%CI： 0.18‍ ‍—‍ ‍0.54， P<0.001）， and death within 30 days after surgery （OR=0.42， 95%CI： 0.22‍ ‍—‍ ‍0.80， P=0.009）， a significantly earlier time to diet （mean difference ［MD］=-0.98， 95%CI： -1.84 to -0.11， P=0.03）， and a significantly shorter length of postoperative hospital stay （MD=-2.44， 95%CI： -4.10 to -0.77， P=0.004）. There were no significant differences between the two groups in the time of operation （MD=-13.68， 95%CI： -28.31 to -0.95， P=0.07） and intraoperative blood loss （MD=-17.26， 95%CI： -57.55 to -23.03， P=0.40）. ConclusionOmental wrapping can reduce the incidence rates of postoperative complications such as pancreatic fistula， bile leakage， postoperative hemorrhage， abdominal infection， and delayed gastric emptying， improve the prognosis of patients， and shorten the length of hospital stay， without increasing surgical difficulty or time of operation.

Risk factors for postoperative pulmonary infection in lung cancer patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis / 中国胸心血管外科临床杂志

@#Objective    To systematically evaluate the risk factors for postoperative pulmonary infection in patients with lung cancer (PPILC), and to provide a theoretical reference for clinicians to prevent the occurrence of PPILC. Methods     The databases of CNKI, Wanfang data, VIP, CBM, PubMed, EMbase and The Cochrane Library were searched by computer to collect researches on the risk factors for PPILC. The search period was from 2012 to 2021. Two clinicians independently screened literature and extracted data and assessed studies for risk of bias, cross-checked and agreed. Meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.3 software. Results     A total of 25 studies were included, including 20 case-control studies, 1 cohort study, and 4 cross-sectional studies, covering 15 129 patients. Twenty case-control studies and 1 cohort study had Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) scores≥6 points, and 4 cross-sectional studies had the Agency for Health Care Quality and Research (AHRQ) scale scores≥6 points. The results of meta-analysis showed that the risk factors for PPILC included: (1) 4 patient's own factors: age≥60 years, male, smoking history, smoking index≥400; (2) 7 preoperative factors: suffering from diabetes, chronic heart failure and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, the ratio of forced expiratory volume in 1 second to forced expiratory volume<70%, the ratio of forced expiratory volume in 1 second to the predicted value, preoperative airway colonization, non-standard use of prophylactic antibiotics before surgery; (3) 3 intraoperative factors: operation time≥3 h, thoracotomy, the number of resected lobe≥2; (4) 3 postoperative factors: postoperative pain, postoperative mechanical ventilation≥12 h, postoperative invasive operation. Large number of preoperative lymphocyte, intraoperative systematic lymph node dissection, TNM stage Ⅰ and Ⅱ, and enhanced recovery after surgery were protective factors for PPILC. Conclusion     The current research evidence shows that multiple factors are associated with the risk of PPILC. However, considering the influence of the quality and quantity of the included literature, the results of this study urgently need to be further verified by more high-quality clinical studies.

Meta-analysis of the role of fibular fixation in tibiofibular fractures / 中国骨伤

OBJECTIVE@#To compare the role and importance of fibular fixation in tibiofibular fractures by Meta-analysis.@*METHODS@#The literature related to the comparison of the efficacy of fixation of the fibula with or without fixation on the treatment of tibiofibular fractures was searched through the databases of China Knowledge Network, Wipu, Wanfang, The Cochrane Library, Web of science and Pubmed, and statistical analysis was performed using RevMan 5.3 software. The rates of malrotation, rotational deformity, internal/external deformity, anterior/posterior deformity, non-union, infection, secondary surgery and operative time were compared between the fibula fixation and non-fixation groups.@*RESULTS@#A total of 11 publications were included, six randomised controlled trials and five case-control trials, eight of which were of high quality. A total of 813 cases were included, of which 383 were treated with fibula fixation and 430 with unfixed fibulae.Meta-analysis results showed that fixation of the fibulae in the treatment of tibiofibular fractures reduced the rates of postoperative rotational deformity[RR=0.22, 95%CI(0.10, 0.45), P<0.000 1] and internal/external deformity[RR=0.34, 95%CI(0.14, 0.84), P=0.02] and promoted fracture healing [RR=0.76, 95%CI(0.58, 0.99), P=0.04]. In contrast, the rates of poor reduction [RR=0.48, 95% CI(0.10, 2.33), P=0.36], anterior/posterior deformity[RR=1.50, 95%CI(0.76, 2.96), P=0.24], infection[RR=1.43, 95%CI(0.76, 2.72), P=0.27], secondary surgery[RR=1.32, 95%CI(0.82, 2.11), P=0.25], and operative time[MD=10.21, 95%CI(-17.79, 38.21), P=0.47] were not statistically significant (P>0.05) for comparison.@*CONCLUSION@#Simultaneous fixation of the tibia and fibula is clinically more effective in the treatment of tibiofibular fractures.

A network Meta analysis of the effects of different exercise modalities on inhibitory control in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder / 中国学校卫生

Objective@#To compare the relative effectiveness of different exercise modalities on inhibitory control in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), so as to provide an evidence based basis for the development of effective exercise prescriptions.@*Methods@#The databases of China National Knowledge Internet (CNKI), Pubmed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane were searched to screen the literature of randomized controlled trials of exercise interventions for inhibitory control in children with ADHD up to December 31, 2022. The Cochrane risk of bias assessment tool was used for methodological quality assessment, and Stata 17.0 software was used for network Meta analysis, standardized mean difference ( SMD ) and 95% CI were used as the effect indicators to compare the difference in effect between interventions and rank the effect.@*Results@#Twenty two papers with a total of 1 134 participants aged 6-14.5 years were finally included. Network Meta analysis showed that the impact effects of physical and mental exercises [ SMD (95% CI )=1.08(0.50-1.66)], cognition+exercise [ SMD (95% CI ) =0.81(0.13-1.48)], and ball games [ SMD (95% CI )= 1.54(0.99-2.09)] were significantly superior to that of control group, and the ball games had a significantly better effect than single aerobic exercise [ SMD (95% CI )=1.02(0.20-1.84)], and combined exercises [ SMD (95% CI )=1.08( 0.28 -1.88)]( P < 0.05 ). The results of surface under the cumulative ranking (SUCRA) showed that ball games might be the best means to improve inhibitory control in children with ADHD(SUCRA=95.3).@*Conclusion@#It is recommended to appropriately increase ball sports in sports activities to more effectively improve the inhibitory control of children with ADHD.