Search

Objectives: The study aims to emphasize the clinical importance of the Deep Inspiration Breath Hold (DIBH) technique by quantifying its dosimetric advantages over Free Breathing (FB) in reducing radiation exposure to the heart, liver, and lungs for right-sided breast cancer patients. This evidence supports its potential for routine clinical use to mitigate radiation-induced toxicity. Methods: A systematic retrieval of controlled trials comparing DIBH and FB techniques in postoperative radiotherapy for right-sided breast cancer was conducted utilizing the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases. The primary outcomes assessed included the doses of adjacent normal tissues (heart, liver, and lungs). Summary standardized mean differences (SMD) along with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were computed, respectively. StataMP 17 software was selected to perform data analysis. Results: The study encompassed an analysis of 313 patients derived from seven online studies, comprising 168 individuals in the DIBH group and 269 individuals in the FB group. The findings indicated that the DIBH group received significantly lower irradiation doses to the heart, liver, and lungs in comparison to the FB group, with statistical significance (heart dose: SMD = -0.63, 95% CI -0.85 to -0.41, P < 0.05; liver dose: SMD = -1.15, 95% CI -1.91 to -0.38, P < 0.05; lung dose: SMD = -0.79, 95% CI -1.23 to -0.35, P < 0.05). Conclusion: This meta-analysis indicated that the application of DIBH during postoperative radiotherapy for right-sided breast cancer markedly decreases radiation exposure to the heart, liver, and lungs, while maintaining consistent tumor dose coverage. Clinical trial number: Not applicable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In myelomeningocele children, the incidence of equinocavovarus feet, considering all foot deformities, is 25–36%. Treatment options consist of extensive surgeries resulting in rigid feet with better alignment. Ponseti method expanded its indications since the early 2000s, including myelodysplastic feet. However, the literature on success, recurrence, and complication rates remains sparse. Therefore, a systematic review was performed in Pubmed, Scopus, Embase, Lilacs, and Web of Science databases on October 28, 2020 and July 11, 2023. Normality and sample proportion analysis with 95% confidence intervals were estimated. Risks of bias and the quality of studies were also evaluated. Success, recurrence, and complication rates were evaluated and analyzed. Eight case series were identified with 101 patients (176 feet). According to this model, the initial success rate was 93% (95% CI = 0.88–0.96) with I2 = 0%, and the final success was 63% (at 4.9 years of follow-up). Recurrence rate was 62% (95% CI = 50–72), and complication rate was 29% (95% CI = 22–38). Ponseti method for myelodysplastic clubfoot is effective (93% of initial correction). However, there are high complication and recurrence rates, and longer follow-up is needed to identify recurrences and urge for early intervention. Foot abduction brace should be used to avoid recurrences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to classify scientific research on the impact of ESG and climate-related risks on the conduct of the banking business. The systematic literature review was based on a bibliometric analysis of articles found in the Scopus and Web of Science databases. The search was confined to materials published between 2000 and August 2023. After applying criteria limiting the search, the final result was 869 unique literature items which were later analysed towards establishing the relationship of ESG and climate-related risks ('new banking risks') with other (so-called 'traditional') banking risks and identifying research gaps at the interface between traditional and new banking risks. This article introduces a variety of findings, including the most productive authors, organisations, countries and journals, the most cited articles and keyword distribution. In addition, a map of the evolution of the approach to ESG risk in banking was constructed on the basis of the literature review. The study identified 11 clusters of banking risk influenced by ESG risk and 10 clusters of banking risk affected by climate-related risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Balancing speed and quality during crises pose challenges for ensuring the value and utility of data in social science research. The COVID-19 pandemic in particular underscores the need for high-quality data and rapid dissemination. Given the importance of behavioural measures and compliance with measures to contain the pandemic, social science research has played a key role in policymaking during this global crisis. This study addresses two key research questions: How FAIR (findable, accessible, interoperable and reusable) are social science data on the COVID-19 pandemic? Which study features are related to the level of FAIRness scores of datasets? We assess the FAIRness of n = 1131 articles, retrieved through a keyword search in the Web of Science database, employing both automated and manual coding methods. Our study inclusion criteria encompass empirical studies on the COVID-19 pandemic published between 2019 and 2023 with a social science focus and explicit reference to the underlying dataset(s). Our analysis of n = 45 datasets reveals substantial differences in FAIRness for different types of research on the COVID-19 pandemic. The overall FAIRness of data is acceptable, although particularly Reusability scores fall short, in both the manual and the automatic assessment. Further, articles explicitly linked to the Social Science concept in the OpenAlex database exhibit a higher mean overall FAIRness value. Based on these results, we derive recommendations for balancing ethical obligations and the potential tradeoff between speed and data (sharing) quality in social-scientific crisis research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite primary care being largely free at the point of delivery, many Canadians experience challenges in accessing the services they need. A systematic review was conducted to summarize the evidence on the level of unmet need for primary care in Canada and its social determinants. Methods: MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases were screened from inception to December 2023 using relevant search terms for primary care and unmet healthcare needs. Quantitative observational studies in the English language that included Canadian adults aged 18 years and older and focused on unmet needs for primary care were included. The risk of bias in the studies was assessed using either the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal checklist or the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. The included studies were synthesized narratively. Results: Forty-six studies met the inclusion criteria for this review. Of the included studies, 96% were cross-sectional in design and 91% had low risk of bias. The prevalence of unmet need, mostly self-reported, varied between 6.6% and 25.2% in national studies. Social determinants of unmet needs were heterogeneous across studies. Findings suggest that unmet need for primary care is related to having low income, mental health diagnoses, and chronic conditions, and negatively associated with older age, having better-perceived health, and having a family physician. Conclusions: Universal access to primary care is the founding principle of the Canadian healthcare system. However, we found evidence suggesting that the extent to which primary care needs are met is influenced by social determinants of health. Further research is needed to improve our understanding of the mechanisms of unmet primary care needs in Canada. Systematic review registration: PROSPERO CRD42021285074. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Oral finasteride and topical minoxidil formulations are the only FDA‐approved drug therapies for androgenetic alopecia (AGA). Research into dutasteride, topical finasteride, and nontopical minoxidil (low‐dose oral and sublingual) formulations in the treatment of AGA has spiked within recent years. Early findings show that these alternative drug therapies may have similar to improved efficacy and safety profiles relative to the conventional treatment options. Aims: Conducting a bibliometric analysis, compare trends in publications on these alternative drug therapies, identify key contributors, evaluate major findings from top‐cited articles, and elucidate gaps in evidence. Methods: A search was conducted on the Web of Science database for publications on the use of alternative drug therapies in the treatment of AGA. A total of 95 publications, published between January 2003—March 2024, and their citation metadata were included in the analysis. Results: Dutasteride showed the greatest (n = 37) and longest (20+ years) history of publications, as well as the highest cumulative citations (n = 914); however, nontopical minoxidil showed a burst in research activity within the last 5 years (n = 33 publications since 2019). A relatively low number of randomized control trials (n = 3) for nontopical minoxidil suggests a need for higher‐quality evidence. Conclusions: Our analysis reveals major trends, contributors, and gaps in evidence for alternative drug therapies for AGA, which can help inform researchers on their future projects in this growing field of study. There is enthusiasm for exploring off‐label formulations: nontopical forms of minoxidil (oral and sublingual), topical finasteride, and mesotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polygalae radix (PR) is the dried root of Polygala tenuifolia Willd. and Polygala sibirica L. and enjoys the reputation as the "key medicine for nourishing life." In this study, information about "Polygala tenuifolia Willd.," "Polygala sibirica L.," and "Yuanzhi" was retrieved from scientific databases, including Google Scholar, Baidu Scholar, Web of Science, PubMed, CNKI, and Wan Fang Data. Information from Chinese herbal medicine classics, Yaozhi Data, and the Gaide Chemical Network was also collected. Information related to botany, phytochemistry, pharmacology, toxicity, industrial applications, and processing is summarized in this paper to tap its potentialities and promote its further development and clinical application. More than 320 metabolites have been isolated from PR; saponins, xanthones, and oligosaccharide esters are the main functional metabolites. Pharmacological research shows that its pharmacological action mainly focuses on resisting nervous system diseases, and it also has the functions of anti-oxidation, anti-inflammation, anti-tumor, anti-pathogenic microorganisms and others. The gastrointestinal irritation of its saponins impeded its application, but this irritation can be reduced by controlling the dosage, compatibility with other herbs, or processing. The future progress of PR faces opportunities and challenges. More attention should be paid to the traditional application and processing methods of PR recorded in ancient books. The lack of safety and clinical studies has limited its application and transformation of achievements. Moreover, it is one-sided to take the content of only a few metabolites as the index of processing optimization and quality control, which cannot reflect the full pharmacological and toxicological activities of PR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We conducted a comprehensive umbrella review including all published meta-analyses and systematic reviews on suicide-related outcomes among adults in custody. Eligible studies were searched for in major scientific databases following the PRISMA method up to February 2023. The quality of each study was assessed using the AMSTAR-2 protocol. Twenty studies were included, consisting of 11 meta-analyses and nine systematic reviews. Factors associated with suicide outcomes among individuals in custody were categorized into five domains: clinical status, historical, custodial, criminological, and prevention. However, all systematic studies reported considerable heterogeneity (I2 > 50%–85%). Most systematic literature reviews and/or meta-analyses showed moderate quality based on AMSTAR-2. This umbrella review highlights individual factors (in the clinical status and historical domain), contextual factors (in the custodial and criminological domains), and protective factors (in the prevention domain) to provide a clearer understanding of the prison-related domains involved in the development and maintenance of suicide-related outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Retos: Nuevas Perspectivas de Educación Física, Deporte y Recreación is the property of Federacion Espanola de Asociaciones de Docentes de Educacion Fisica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Retos: Nuevas Perspectivas de Educación Física, Deporte y Recreación is the property of Federacion Espanola de Asociaciones de Docentes de Educacion Fisica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Colorectal cancer (CRC) screening has been proven to reduce both mortality and the incidence of this disease. Most CRC screening programs are based on fecal immunochemical tests (FITs), which have a low participation rate. Searching for blood protein biomarkers can lead to the development of a more accepted screening test. The aim of this systematic review was to compare the diagnostic potential of the most promising serum protein biomarkers. A systematic review based on PRISMA guidelines was conducted in the PubMed and Web of Science databases between January 2010 and December 2023. Studies assessing blood protein biomarkers for CRC screening were included. The sensitivity, specificity, and area under the ROC curve of each biomarker were collected. Among 4685 screened studies, 94 were considered for analysis. Most of them were case–control studies, leading to an overestimation of the performance of candidate biomarkers. The performance of no protein biomarker or combination of biomarkers appears to match that of the FIT. Studies with a suitable design and population, testing new assay techniques, or based on algorithms combining FIT with serum tests are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diet is the main modifiable risk factor underlying the progression of Type 2 Diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The African olive (Canarium schweinfurthii Engl.) of the family Burseraceae and genus Canarium is a source of food and medicine. This review summarized information on the nutritional and chemical composition of the Canarium schweinfurthii Engl. fruit pulp and explored its potential application in the management of T2DM. The literature search covered scientific databases comprising of Science Direct, Springer, Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute, Science Hub and Google Scholar, from April 2023 up to January 2024. The following keywords were used: "Canarium schweinfurthii Engl.", "Canarium schweinfurthii Engl. fruit pulp", "Canarium schweinfurthii Engl. nutrition value, chemical composition and bioactive compounds", "Canarium schweinfurthii Engl. against T2DM", and "Nutritional requirements for T2DM". This review evaluates the current state of research of global literature from 1992 to 2022 (n = 450) on Canarium schweinfurthii Engl. and T2DM. Data and information from literature (n = 115) was included in the review. The results of different studies showed that Canarium schweinfurthii Engl. fruit was composed of a wide range of nutritional and chemical components such as minerals, amino acids, fatty acids and vitamins. In addition, the fruit contains bioactive compounds reported to be effective against T2DM. Canarium schweinfurthii Engl. contains phytochemicals such as saponins, phenolics, alkaloids and flavonoids that have positive effects on cardio-metabolic health. Although the T2DM therapeutic effects of Canarium schweinfurthii bark stem extracts and fruit pulp oil have been reported, the therapeutic potential of the whole fruit pulp is yet to be reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We carried out a systematic review of the medical literature on potential effects of caregiving on the health and well being of spouses of Fibromyalgia (FM) patients and pooled the results in a meta-analysis. Methods: The review is comprised of original studies that examined the mood states and well-being of husbands/wives, or long-term intimate partners, of FM patients. The authors searched the PubMed, Scopus, APA PsycNet and Web of Science databases using the key words "fibromyalgia and spouses," "fibromyalgia and partners," and "fibromyalgia and husbands." Of 570 papers that were initially identified using the search words, 18 papers were considered eligible. We used the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist (JBICAC) and Critical Appraisal Skills Program (CASP) tools to assess the risk of bias in the analytical cross-sectional and qualitative studies, respectively. Results: The overall score in mood states was significantly higher among spouses of FM patients than among spouses of individuals without FM (SMD [95% CI] = 0.52 [0.30; 0.74]). The strongest evidence was found for depression, SMD [95% CI] = 0.68 [0.33; 1.03]. The overall standardized score of quality of life was significantly lower among spouses of FM patients, SMD [95% CI] = -0.59 [-0.79; -0.38], with significant differences in physical function and role, emotional role, and mental health subscales. Limitation: Limitation of this review is the scant number of studies that addressed several health domains, which made it impossible to carry out meta-analyses in these domains. Conclusion: Spouses of FM patients show the emotional and physical consequences of caregiving, and impaired quality of life. Addressing these problems can prevent deterioration of their health and improve their quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pragmatic impairment has become a critical aspect of language development in autistic children and has gained significant academic attention over the past two decades. This study leverages bibliometric methods to conduct an exhaustive analysis of literature derived from Web of Science database. Utilizing CiteSpace software, we construct a knowledge map to dissect the academic hotspots in research related to pragmatic impairment in autistic children. This enables us to delineate the evolutionary trajectory of this research domain, analyze the prevailing research dimensions, and anticipate potential future dimensions. Our findings indicate that research hotspots in this field over the past two decades predominantly concentrate on assessing and diagnosing pragmatic impairment in autistic children, intervention strategies, and theory of mind. The research scope on pragmatic impairment in autistic children has progressively broadened and deepened. Research has evolved from initial descriptions and interpretations of autism to exploring the theory of mind in high-functioning, school-aged children. The current emphasis is on examining the specific skills that these children possess. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aims to explore the current hot topics and future research trends in spinal schwannoma imaging research, providing a reference for related studies and promoting the development of spinal schwannoma imaging. Methods: We conducted a literature search in the Web of Science database using the search terms (((TS = (Spinal schwannoma)) AND TS = (Imaging)) OR TS = (Spinal schwannoma)) AND TS = (image) to retrieve relevant articles. The collected data, including authors, keywords, journals, countries, institutions, and references, were subjected to visual analysis using the visualization software CiteSpace 6.4.2R and VOSviewer 1.6.19. Results: A total of 310 relevant articles were identified. After further screening based on time limits, inclusion, and exclusion criteria, 179 articles were included in the study, consisting of 132 original articles and 42 reviews. These articles were authored by 1,034 authors from 35 countries and 324 institutions and were published in 82 different journals. The included articles cited a total of 6,583 references from 1,314 journals. Conclusion: Although the field of spinal schwannoma imaging research is not a popular research area in the medical community, there has been an increasing international interest in this field in recent years. While China ranks high in terms of the number of published articles, there is still a gap in terms of the quality and research level compared to developed countries in Europe and America. MRI, as the gold standard for diagnosing spinal schwannomas, is expected to be a research hotspot in terms of feature analysis, enhancement characteristics, and quantitative analysis. It is also hoped that China can increase its investment in research and contribute to the field by publishing high-quality articles in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blue carbon refers to the carbon fixed in marine ecosystems such as mangroves, salt marshes, and seagrass beds. Considered a treasure house for capturing and storing carbon dioxide, it can alleviate environmental issues linked to climate change and positively influence the environments where people live. Thus, to clarify the hotspots and development trends of blue carbon research, bibliometric analysis incorporating ScientoPy and VOSviewer software were used to quantitatively analyze 4,604 blue carbon publications from Web of Science and Scopus databases between 1993 and 2023. The results indicate a rapidly growing number of published studies on blue carbon, with blue carbon research being multifaceted and gradually becoming an interdisciplinary and international topic. This study on blue carbon, which is based on keyword clustering analysis, comprises three stages. The analysis of the strength of the cooperative connections between scholars in various countries who have published work on blue carbon. found that the cooperation networks of developed countries are strong and those of developing countries are relatively weak. Quantitative trend analysis reveals a growing focus on the restoration and conservation of blue carbon ecosystems, with remote sensing being the predominant technology used in the blue carbon research field in recent years. In blue carbon research, increasing carbon sequestration capacity, climate change mitigation, and carbon sequestration in macroalgae remain potential hotspots for research and development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The definition and operationalization of workforce agility, initially associated with multitasking abilities, have evolved to encompass aspects of adaptability, proactivity, and resilience, which are now widely accepted. However, some authors have expanded this concept by adding elements such as intelligence, collaboration, and social support, leading to confusion and disagreement on how to consistently measure workforce agility. Furthermore, the literature emphasizes the importance of workforce agility in achieving business goals and adopting innovative management models, yet it provides limited structured guidance for future research. Methods: This study uses Scopus and Web of Science as the primary databases. The search was not limited to a specific period but included articles up to 2024, with an initial sample of 176 articles. After a screening process based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, 74 articles were included in the thematic analysis and data synthesis. Results: Workforce agility has been positioned as an independent, mediating, moderating, and dependent variable in various studies. Most studies examine workforce agility at the individual level, with only about 10 studies exploring this aspect at the organizational level. However, no research has specifically explored workforce agility at the team level to date. The primary objective of workforce agility research is to expand and connect theories with diverse methodological approaches, including quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods. As a result, theoretical foundations and inter-variable relationships are established to identify recommendations for future research. Discussion: More than 25 fundamental theories have been identified and categorized into nine groups. These nine groups were then reformulated into four general theories: Organizational and Management Theory, Communication and Social Interaction Theory, Behavioral and Learning Theory, and Economic Theory. Based on previous research, several recommendations for future research have been outlined, including conducting longitudinal studies, integrating mixed methods, considering the global cultural context, expanding research samples, developing conceptual models, exploring mediating and moderating variables, developing workforce agility theories, creating efficient evaluation methods, and implementing multilevel models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Phytochemicals are compounds that are naturally found in plants and are known to have various health benefits. However, phytochemicals are structurally complex, inherently unstable, and have low bioavailability. Unfortunately, research on phytochemicals lags behind that of essential nutrients. This paper focuses on a bibliometric analysis to understand citation patterns in phytochemical research related to chronic diseases. It examines the current state of research, research focal points, and anticipated trends in the field. Methods. We analyzed published literature on phytochemicals and chronic diseases using the Web of Science database. Our search included only English‐language publications until April 1, 2023. Visual Metrics software was used to examine data on countries, institutions, authors, journals, and citations. Results. For this study, a total of 2,297 articles were retrieved from 2008 to the present, with a significant increase in citations starting in 2017. China was found to be the leading country in paper production, while the United States had the highest H‐index, placing both at the forefront of research in this field. King Saud University published the most, and Liu RH emerged as the most influential author. The analysis showed limited collaboration between institutions across different countries. Molecules were the primary source for phytochemical‐related papers. The top 20 keywords highlighted flavonoids and their association with cardiovascular diseases, indicating them as prominent themes in recent phytochemical research with the potential to remain relevant. Conclusions. The study highlights the increasing interest in phytochemical research related to chronic diseases. It provides a thorough review and analysis of the present situation, the latest research topics, and academic trends in this field. This information is precious for researchers and healthcare professionals. It helps them to comprehend significant literature and keep up‐to‐date with the latest advancements in the field, eventually leading to progress in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: COVID-19 vaccines can lead to diverse local and systemic side effects, but there is limited evidence concerning their association with menstrual cycle changes. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of menstrual cycle alterations after COVID-19 vaccination among adult women. Methods: We systematically searched the PubMed, Web of Science and Science Direct databases for observational studies that included adult women and investigated the range of menstrual alterations. The quality of the studies was evaluated via the Newcastle–Ottawa scale. All the data were analyzed via Comprehensive Meta-Analysis Software Version 4.0. Forest plots were created to calculate the individual and pooled prevalence rates of different types of menstrual changes and 95% confidence intervals (CI) via fixed-effects and random-effects models, as appropriate. Heterogeneity was assessed with Q statistics and the I2 test. Results: Eleven studies, encompassing 26,283 adult women, met our eligibility criteria. Among the selected studies, five were cohort studies, five were cross-sectional studies, and one employed a case‒control design. The menstrual changes included abnormal cycle duration, dysmenorrhea, irregular cycles, and abnormal cycle flow (heavy and light flow), with pooled percentages of 27.3% (CI: 7.2–64.6%), 22% (CI: 5.2–59.4%), 16% (CI: 5.8–37.2%), 11.7% (CI: 5.8–22%), and 5.5% (CI: 2.3–12.5%), respectively. Conclusions: This review highlights the prevalence of menstrual changes after COVID-19 vaccination and emphasizes the importance of considering menstrual health as an integral part of postvaccination monitoring and health care interventions. However, longitudinal studies are essential for establishing a definitive causal relationship between COVID-19 vaccination and menstrual alterations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This article focus on patients with moderate-to-severe periodontitis and periodontitis patients with cardiovascular disease. After they received periodontal initial therapy or antimicrobial drug treatment, was there any improvement in endothelial function during short- and long-term followups? Method: Relevant randomized controlled trials and clinical trials up to 30th June 2024 were identified and retrieved from electronic databases including PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science and CNKI databases, with periodontitis therapy, periodontal disease and endothelial function as the keywords. The weighted (WMD) or standardized mean difference (SMD) was calculated using a fixed- or random-effect model and assessed heterogeneous results. Result: Generally, 14 studies published between 2004 and 2022 were eligible for the meta-analysis, which are all randomised clinical trials. A total of 491 periodontitis patients were screened. All participants received whole-mouth supragingival and subgingival scaling and root planing of the teeth, some trials combined with antimicrobial drug treatment as well as extracting teeth that could not be saved. The outcome indicators were measured by flow-mediated dilatation(FMD) levels. The results of the short term (≤3 months) periodontitis initial therapy group showed positive results (WMD = -3.78,95%CI = [-5.49,-2.07], P<0.0001), while the results of the long term (6 months) periodontitis therapy group exhibited significant difference (WMD = -0.96,95%CI = [-2.06,0.14],P = 0.09). Furthermore, study population were categorized according to the severity of periodontitis, the presence of comorbidities, endothelial dysfunction, and the inclusion of extractions and antimicrobial therapy in the treatment process. The effects of each of these factors on FMD were explored and the results of these subgroups all support periodontitis therapy. Conclusion: The results showed that periodontal treatment enhances endothelial function. Additionally, after subgroup analysis of long-term and short-term follow-up, patients with severe periodontitis, and different periodontal treatments, periodontal therapy was shown to increase FMD levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the 1940s, aspiration of stomach contents was recognized as a serious problem during labor, which is why fluid and food restriction was adopted for women who would undergo general anesthesia. Currently, the practice of generalized food restriction is a routine that is being discontinued. This review aims to map the evidence on the effects of the intake of foods, supplements and drinks in women on labor outcomes. To that end, documents investigating this topic in pregnant women admitted for uncomplicated deliveries in maternity wards, published from 2013 onwards, will be assessed. This interval was defined based on the publication by Singata et al., who carried out a systematic review on the benefits and harms of oral fluid intake or food restriction during labor. The scoping review methods of the JBI and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Review (PRISMA) were followed. Firstly, a preliminary search was carried out to identify the existence of similar scoping reviews or protocols, as well as the keywords and MeSH descriptors in the titles and abstracts, with a view to developing a complete search strategy. Subsequently, a search will be carried out in the Cochrane Library, Medline/PubMed, Embase, SCOPUS and Web of Science databases. The search strategy will be adapted for each of these databases. Finally, a reverse search will be carried out using the references of the included studies. The obtained documents will be imported into Rayyan for duplicate detection and removal. Two independent reviewers will read the titles and abstracts, observing the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The data extraction from each included study will be carried out independently by two reviewers, using the extraction form created for this purpose. In order to report results, we will follow the PRISMA checklist and report descriptive statistics and a narrative summary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Purpose Methods Results Conclusions The human visual system relies on neural networks throughout the brain that are easily accessible for tests exploring eye structures and movements. Over the past two decades, investigations have been carried out on both afferent and efferent components of the visual system in people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). This approach might represent an innovative biomarker research strategy to better characterise the phenotypic variability of ALS. The purpose of this review was to determine whether exploring the visual system of patients with ALS (pwALS) is an effective strategy.The Medline and Web of science databases were searched for studies with terms relating to ALS and vision. Of 1146 references identified, 43 articles were included.In this review article, both afferent and efferent components of the visual system were found to be impaired in pwALS in the absence of visual complaint, thereby contributing to the hypothesis that ALS is a multisystem disease with sensory involvement. Of note, some areas of the eye remain unexplored (i.e., tears, and retinal function using electroretinography).According to the findings available in the literature, investigating the oculomotor system and exploring the ocular surface could represent two key promising strategies to identify new diagnostic biomarkers in pwALS. Further longitudinal studies are needed to identify relevant indicators of disease progression and response to therapeutic intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Animal and human studies have demonstrated that the saffron and the active components of saffron, including crocin, crocetin, and safranal, possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties. In this meta-analysis, the preclinical evidence and potential mechanism of saffron were explored in an animal model of ovalbumin-induced asthma. Methods: Studies related to saffron and its constituents in an animal model of ovalbumin-induced asthma from the beginning to March 2024 were searched from Scopus, PubMed, andWeb of Science databases. The methodological quality of the studieswas evaluated using the 15-item CAMARADES checklist. Data analysis was performed using STATA software version 17. Results: Thirteen studies with 536 animals (268 animals in the intervention group and 268 animals in the ovalbumin-induced group) were analyzed. The meta-analysis findings demonstrated that saffron and its constituents played a significant role in reducing total WBC, eosinophil, lymphocyte, and monocyte counts. Moreover, saffron showed a significant decrease in the levels of IL-4, IL-5, IL-13, IgE, histamine, endothelin, nitric oxide, and nitrite. Moreover, saffron was found to elevate EC50 thresholds and lower maximum response rates in experimental animals. The analysis revealed a significant identification of modulation in endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress markers and miRNAs pathways. Conclusion: Saffron and its components may impact ovalbumin-induced asthma model in animals through anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory pathways, as well as improving pulmonary function and modulating ER stress markers and miRNAs pathways. As a result, saffron should be considered for further clinical trials in individuals suffering from asthma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) is a severe threat to pig farming worldwide and contributes to substantial financial losses. Endogenous short RNAs, known as microRNAs (miRNAs), play various roles in controlling viral infections in both human and animals through virus‒host interactions, mediating immune-related gene responses in target cells despite their unknown precise roles in infectious illnesses. Thus, a comprehensive literature search was conducted in EMBASE, PubMed and Web of Science databases to compile this review, focusing on the function, role, and involvement of miRNAs in porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) infection. In addition to possible exogenous miRNAs such as miR2911 and miR168, our study provides strong evidence demonstrating the important effects of endogenous miRNAs such as miR-181, miR-26, and miR-145 on PRRSV infection, which were also anticipated to bind to certain locations within PRRSV genomes. Our study highlights that miRNAs can serve as a treatment strategy of PRRS and further research is needed to validate their clinical safety and efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This systematic review aimed to examine the efficacy and safety profile of amivantamab in patients with advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and EGFR mutations. Methods: Three scientific databases, PubMed, Cochrane library and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched for relevant articles up until 30 June 2024. Progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), objective response rate (ORR) and ≥3 grade adverse events (AE) were the outcomes of interest. Results: Five clinical trials were included in this systematic review, reporting data from 1124 patients (safety population; n = 1091 efficacy population), who received amivantamab as a monotherapy or in combination with other treatments, both in a first-line and in a relapsed/refractory setting. The median PFS for groups of patients that received amivantamab ranged from 4.3 to 8.3 months, while the lowest observed OS was 10.2 months. The ORR ranged from 30% to 73%. The rate of grade 3 or higher AEs ranged from 35% to 92%, while serious AEs ranged from 29% to 52%. Infusion-related reactions (IRRs) ranged from 42% to 78% among patients that received amivantamab intravenously, while a 13% IRR rate was found in a group of patients that received amivantamab subcutaneously. Conclusions: Current evidence suggests that amivantamab is an effective treatment option for patients with advanced or metastatic NSCLC with EGFR mutations. Amivantamab-based combinations may prolong survival both in the treatment of naïve patients and those who have progressed on chemotherapy or tyrosine kinase inhibitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Lamiaceae plant family has a positive impact on metabolic diseases. This study meta‐analyzed the data of different clinical trial studies on the impacts of these plants on blood lipid biomarkers including cholesterol, triglyceride, high‐density lipoprotein (HDL), and low‐density lipoprotein (LDL). A comprehensive search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, ISI Web of Science, ProQuest, Scientific Information Database, MagIran, and Google Scholar to identify relevant published research up to December 20, 2023. The meta‐analysis revealed that the Lamiaceae family significantly reduced cholesterol (p < .001), triglyceride (p = .003), and LDL (p < .001) levels. The rise in HDL levels was not significantly impacted (p = .069). Subgroup studies revealed that Lamiaceae plants improve all lipid parameters for a short duration (≤8 weeks) while in a longer duration (>8 weeks) only LDL level is improved in the blood (p < .05). In addition, Lamiaceae plants specifically decreased LDL and cholesterol levels in diabetic patients and only LDL levels in the individuals who were hyperlipidemic or overweight/obese. Within the Lamiaceae family, the genera Satureja and Coleus had the most significant effects in decreasing triglyceride and LDL/cholesterol levels, respectively. Origanum was the only genus within the Lamiaceae family that significantly improved three lipid parameters (cholesterol, LDL, and HDL). The meta‐analysis confirmed that Lamiaceae plants could improve the levels of lipid parameters (triglyceride, cholesterol, and LDL) in patients with metabolic syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD) is an autosomal dominant genetic disease, which is caused by the mistaken expression of double homeobox protein 4 protein 4 (DUX4) in skeletal muscle. Patients with FSHD are usually accompanied by degenerative changes in the face, shoulders, and upper muscles, gradually accumulating in the lower limb muscles. The severity of patients is quite different, and most patients end up using wheelchairs and losing their self-care ability. At present, the exploration of treatment strategies for FSHD has shifted from relieving symptoms to gene therapy, which brings hope to the future of patients, but the current gene therapy is only in the clinical trial stage. Here, we conducted a comprehensive search of the relevant literature using the keywords FSHD, DUX4, and gene therapy methods including ASOs, CRISPR, and RNAi in the PubMed and Web of Science databases. We discussed the current advancements in treatment strategies for FSHD, as well as ongoing preclinical and clinical trials related to FSHD. Additionally, we evaluated the advantages and limitations of various gene therapy approaches targeting DUX4 aimed at correcting the underlying genetic defect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artificial intelligence (AI) techniques have been increasingly applied in assisting various cultural heritage (CH)-related tasks. The aim of this study is to examine the research trends and current applications of AI in this vast domain. After obtaining a dataset from the Web of Science and Scopus databases, a scientometric analysis of research publications from 2019 to 2023 related to the use of AI in CH was conducted. The trending topics based on the author's keywords were identified by using the ScientoPy v2.1.3 software. Through this approach, five main topics were identified: classification, computer vision, 3D reconstruction, recommender systems, and intangible cultural heritage. The analysis highlights the upward trend in publications in this field since 2019, indicating a growing interest in the application of AI techniques in CH. By analyzing the latest research in the field, it is observed that AI techniques are mostly applied to assist CH in the discovery, description, classification, and preservation tasks. The report gives insights into the main research areas and developing trends in the field of artificial intelligence and machine learning. The study offers important information about the key research areas and emerging trends related to using AI techniques in the CH field. This helps to recognize the potential, development, and increasing influence of these technologies within the CH domain. The findings of this study contribute to the future development of AI applications in CH, enabling professionals to use the advantages of these technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction and purpose Contrast enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) is a modern diagnostic method that uses ultrasound waves in combination with intravenous administration of a contrast agent. It enables obtaining high resolution and assessing microcirculation in real time, thanks to which the researcher is able to analyze the enhancement and its features, which may help in diagnosing a specific pathology. Contrast agents, similar to CT and MRI, show specific phases of enhancement after administration - arterial, venous, delayed. Their additional advantage is safety, especially for patients with impaired kidney and thyroid function, and causing fewer allergic reactions. The aim of this review is to present the CEUS examination technique and the latest reports in the field of diagnosis of renal lesions. Material and methods This review was prepared based on the literature available from recent years in the PubMed and Google Scholar scientific databases using the keywords: ultrasonography, contrast enhanced ultrasonography, kidney, renal masses. Results Studies show that CEUS can be an effective method for imaging both cystic and solid lesions in the kidney. When using a contrast agent, the lesions show characteristic features that can guide the investigator to the diagnosis. Moreover, in comparative analyses, CEUS achieved comparable or better results than other diagnostic imaging methods. Conclusions CEUS is a modern and promising diagnostic method that can successfully compete with CT and MRI. Moreover, the metabolism and pharmacokinetics of contrast agents and their safety mean that CEUS can be used for the diagnosis of unclear pathologies in elderly patients, as well as for the control and supervision of changes that require frequent imaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Incremental peritoneal dialysis (IPD) refers to the use of less than standard full-dose peritoneal dialysis (SPD) in end-stage renal disease patients. While the use of IPD is being reported in the literature, its safety and efficacy vs. SPD is unclear. We hereby performed a systematic review of studies comparing mortality, peritonitis, technique survival, anuria-free survival and residual renal function (RRF) between IPD and SPD. Methods: All comparative studies published on PubMed, Embase, CENTRAL, Scopus, and Web of Science databases from inception to 5th September 2023 and reporting on given outcomes were eligible. Results: Ten studies were included. Definitions of IPD were heterogenous and hence mostly a qualitative synthesis was undertaken. Majority of studies found no difference in patient survival between IPD and SPD. Meta-analysis of crude mortality data also presented no significant difference. Peritonitis and technique survival were also not significantly different between IPD and SPD in the majority of studies. Data on RRF was conflicting. Some studies showed that IPD was associated with the preservation of RRF while others found no such difference. Conclusion: IPD may be a safe alternative to SPD in incident dialysis patients. There seems to be no difference in patient survival, peritonitis, and technique survival between the two modalities. However, the impact of IPD on RRF is still questionable. Evidence is heterogeneous and conflicting to derive firm conclusions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The prevalence of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and its subsequent progression to dementia has increased progression to dementia has increased worldwide, making it a topic of interest. of interest, and it has been observed that approximately 23% of cases are avoidable through preventable through vigorous exercise. Methods: A systematic review with meta-analysis was conducted by searching in the PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, and Web of Science databases. For inclusion, studies had to incorporate High Intensity Training (HIT) as a primary or significant component of the overall intervention for older adults with MCI. Out of the 611 articles identified, 14 randomized clinical trials met the criteria for inclusion in the review. Results: Fourteen trials were included in the systematic review, and seven were included in the meta-analysis. A total of 1839 participants were included in the studies, with 1014 receiving a high-intensity training-based intervention, and 998 were considered in the meta-analysis. Compared to usual care or sedentary activities, the high-intensity training interventions had a positive effect on cognition, either improving it or delaying the decline (g = 0.710 (95% CI: 0.191 — 1.229; p = 0.007). Additionally, the meta-analysis determined that a frequency of 3 sessions per week (g = 0.964, CI = 0.091 — 1.837, p = 0.030) of approximately 60 minutes (g = 0.756, CI = 0.052 — 1.460, p = 0.035) each was the best dose to obtain better effects on global cognition. Conclusion: Low-frequency and short-duration high-intensity training interventions are sufficient to improve or at least delay the decline in global cognition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Recent evidence indicates that inflammation plays a major role in the pathogenesis and progression of CCA. This meta-analysis seeks to evaluate the prognostic implications of preoperative inflammatory markers, specifically NLR, PLR, and LMR, in patients with eCCA. By focusing on these preoperative biomarkers, this study aims to provide valuable insights into their prognostic value and potential utility in clinical practice. Methods: For this analysis, comprehensive searches were conducted in PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases from inception to May 2024. The primary outcomes of interest focused on the association between the levels of NLR, PLR, and LMR and the prognosis of eCCA patients. Statistical analyses were conducted using STATA 17.0 software. Results: The meta-analysis, involving 20 retrospective studies with 5553 participants, revealed significant correlations between preoperative biomarkers and the prognosis of eCCA patients. Elevated NLR, PLR, and decreased LMR levels were extensively studied regarding overall survival (OS) in eCCA patients. Elevated NLR was an independent predictor of poor OS (HR 1.86, p < 0.001), similar to elevated PLR (HR 1.76, p < 0.001), while decreased LMR predicted poor OS (HR 2.16, p < 0.001). Subgroup analyses based on eCCA subtypes and curative surgery status showed consistent results. Conclusions: In conclusion, our study emphasizes the clinical significance of assessing NLR, PLR, and LMR preoperatively to predict patient prognosis. Elevated NLR and PLR values, along with decreased LMR values, were linked to poorer overall survival (OS). Large-scale prospective cohort studies are required to confirm their independent prognostic value in eCCA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) swarms have emerged as a promising technology for various applications, such as delivery, surveillance, and infrastructure inspection. An additional feature of deploying large UAV swarms is their use in mobile offloading networking. At the same time, this implies a key challenge in the efficient management of the computational and networking requirements for these offloading processes. This paper aims to fill this gap through a systematic literature review (SLR) analysing the research on distributed task offloading in UAV swarms. We conducted a systematic search of major scientific databases to identify relevant literature published between 2019 and 2023. A total of 63 papers were selected through a multistage screening process and their key contributions. This SLR aims to provide the current state of research on UAV swarm task offloading, including considerations for computation offloading, the role of UAV swarms, different aspects of UAV swarms, the number of UAVs in swarms impacting performance, and open issues. Our review also highlights UAV swarm offloading in various domains and discusses the challenges and limitations that must be addressed to ensure the widespread adoption of this technology. We outline the future research directions and potential applications of UAV swarm offloading, including its integration with other technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A meta-analysis including all relevant randomized controlled trials was conducted to compare soft bandage, splint and cast as the treatment of torus fracture. PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were searched in January 2023. Two comparisons were made: (1) splint versus cast, and (2) bandage versus rigid immobilization (i.e. splint or cast). Main outcomes were pain, clinical healing of the fracture and return to activities. Secondary outcomes were adverse events (skin issues, problems with cast/splint/bandage) and patient/parental satisfaction. Seven studies with 1550 patients were included. Splint was associated with higher pain scores at 3 days compared to cast (Mean difference [MD] 1.00, CI 0.06–1.94) and at 1 week (MD 1.46, CI 0.84–2.08, moderate-certainty evidence), but faster return to activities (at 3 weeks RR 1.77, CI 1.09–2.88, at 4 weeks RR 1.44, CI 1.11–1.82, moderate-certainty evidence). All torus fractures heal clinically within 3–4 weeks (low-certainty evidence). Bandage may lead to slightly higher pain score (MD 0.35, CI 0.04–0.66, moderate-certainty evidence) at first day after treatment compared to rigid immobilization, but no evidence of a difference was found in later time points. In conclusion, soft bandage or removable wrist splint seem to be optimal first-line treatment of distal forearm torus fracture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: In this study, we aimed to systematically review the literature of the prevalence of systemic antibacterial use during pregnancy and to perform a descriptive analysis focused on methodological characteristics. Materials and methods: This study was registered in PROSPERO under protocol number CRD42022376634. Medline, Embase, Scientific Electronic Library Online, Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, and Web of Science databases were searched (published studies until November 3rd, 2022). Selected studies were population-based cross-sectional or cohort, carried out with pregnant women, and providing information about the prevalence of systemic antibacterial use at least in one trimester of pregnancy. Reviewers conducted in pairs the title and abstract screening, eligibility criteria check, and data extraction of selected studies. Quality appraisal was performed with an adapted version of the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist for Prevalence Studies. Data of included studies were pooled into a graphical and tabular summary. Results: A total of 16,251,280 pregnant women and 5,169,959 pregnancy registers were identified. The prevalence estimates of systemic antibacterial use during pregnancy ranged from 2.0% (95%CI 2.0–2.0) to 64.3% (95%CI not reported) in the 79 included studies. The majority were performed in high-income countries (91.5%). Overall, the studies revealed considerable prevalence heterogeneity in terms of study type and dataset used. The 95% confidence intervals were not reported in 41% of studies. Conclusion: The disparities in the prevalence of systemic antibacterial use during pregnancy can be related to methodological issues and different health policies. Lack of uniform databases and changes in data collection methods over time should be taken into account in public health strategy planning. The scarce evidence in low- and middle-income settings hampers the comprehensiveness of the global prevalence of antibacterial use during pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Malaria control depends primarily on rapid and accurate diagnosis followed by successful treatment. Light microscopy is still used as a gold standard method for the diagnosis of malaria. The Sysmex hematology analyzer is a novel method for malaria detection. Therefore, the aim of this review was to investigate the diagnostic accuracy of the Sysmex hematology analyzer for malaria diagnosis. Methods: Electronic databases like PubMed, PubMed Central, Science Direct databases, Google Scholar, and Scopus were used to find relevant articles from April to June 14, 2023. The studies' methodological quality was assessed using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies-2 tool. Using Review Manager 5.4.1, the estimates of sensitivity and specificity, as well as their 95% confidence intervals, were shown in forest plots. Midas software in Stata 14.0 was utilized to calculate the summary estimates of sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio, negative likelihood ratio, and diagnostic odds ratio. Heterogeneity was assessed by using I2 statistics. In addition, publication bias was assessed using a funnel plot and Deeks' test. Sub-group and meta- regression analysis were also performed. Results: A total of 15 studies were assessed for diagnostic accuracy. The sensitivity and specificity of Sysmex hematology analyzer for studies ranged from 46% to 100% and 81% to 100%, respectively. The summary estimate of sensitivity and specificity of Sysmex hematology analyzer were 95% (95% CI: 85%-99%) and 99% (95% CI: 97%-100%), respectively. It had excellent diagnostic accuracy. There were significant heterogeneity among the studies included in this meta-analysis. The summary estimate of sensitivity and specificity of Sysmex hematology analyzer using polymerase chain reaction as the gold standard was 97.6% (95% CI: 83.2, 99.7) and 99.4% (98.5, 99.8), respectively. Conclusion: In this review, Sysmex hematology analyzer had excellent diagnostic accuracy. Therefore, it could be used as an alternate diagnostic tool for malaria diagnosis in the hospital and health center. Trial registration: Systematic review registration PROSPERO (2023: CRD42023427713). https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42023427713. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Voriconazole plasma concentration exhibits significant variability and maintaining it within the therapeutic range is the key to enhancing its efficacy. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to estimate the prevalence of patients achieving the therapeutic range of plasma voriconazole concentration and identify associated factors. Methods: Eligible studies were identified through the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases from their inception until 18 November 2023. We conducted a meta-analysis using a random-effects model to determine the prevalence of patients who reached the therapeutic plasma voriconazole concentration range. Factors associated with plasma voriconazole concentration were summarized from the included studies. Results: Of the 60 eligible studies, 52 reported the prevalence of patients reaching the therapeutic range, while 20 performedmultiple linear regression analyses. The pooled prevalence who achieved the therapeutic range was 56% (95% CI: 50%-63%) in studies without dose adjustment patients. The pooled prevalence of adult patients was 61% (95% CI: 56%-65%), and the pooled prevalence of children patients was 55% (95% CI: 50%-60%) The study identified, in the children population, several factors associated with plasma voriconazole concentration, including age (coefficient 0.08, 95% CI: 0.01 to 0.14), albumin (-0.05 95% CI: -0.09 to -0.01), in the adult population, some factors related to voriconazole plasma concentration, including omeprazole (1.37, 95% CI 0.82 to 1.92), pantoprazole (1.11, 95% CI: 0.17-2.04), methylprednisolone (-1.75, 95% CI: -2.21 to -1.30), and dexamethasone (-1.45, 95% CI: -2.07 to -0.83). Conclusion: The analysis revealed that only approximately half of the patients reached the plasma voriconazole concentration therapeutic range without dose adjustments and the pooled prevalence of adult patients reaching the therapeutic range is higher than that of children. Therapeutic drug monitoring is crucial in the administration of voriconazole, especially in the children population. Particular attention may be paid to age, albumin levels in children, and the use of omeprazole, pantoprazole, dexamethasone and methylprednisolone in adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Arginine deprivation therapy (ADT) hinders glioma cells' access to nutrients by reducing peripheral blood arginine, showing great efficacy in various studies, which suggests it as a potentially promising treatment for glioma. The aim of this systematic review was to explore the mechanism of ADT for gliomas, the therapeutic effect based on existing research, and possible combination therapies. Methods: We performed a systematic literature review of PubMed, ScienceDirect and Web of Science databases according to PRISMA guidelines, searching for articles on the efficacy of ADT in glioma. Results: We identified 17 studies among 786 search results, among which ADT therapy mainly based on Arginine free condition, Arginine Deiminase and Arginase, including three completed clinical trials. ADT therapy has shown promising results in vivo and in vitro, with its safety confirmed in clinical trials. In the early phase of treatment, glioblastoma (GBM) cells develop protective mechanisms of stress and autophagy, which eventually evolve into caspase dependent apoptosis or senescence, respectively. The immunosuppressive microenvironment is also altered by arginine depletion, such as the transformation of microglia into a pro-inflammatory phenotype and the activation of T-cells. Thus, ADT therapy demonstrates glioma-killing effect in the presence of a combination of mechanisms. In combination with various conventional therapies and investigational drugs such as radiotherapy, temozolomide (TMZ), cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors (CDK) inhibitors and autophagy inducers, ADT therapy has been shown to be more effective. However, the phenomenon of drug resistance due to re-expression of ASS1 rather than stem cell remains to be investigated. Conclusion: Despite the paucity of studies in the literature, the available data demonstrate the therapeutic potential of arginine deprivation therapy for glioma and encourage further research, especially the exploration of its combination therapies and the extrapolation of what we know about the effects and mechanisms of ADT from other tumors to glioma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Platinum-based chemotherapy bring severe hematological toxicity that can lead to dose reduction or discontinuation of therapy. Genetic variations have been reported to influence the risk and extent of hematological toxicity; however, the results are controversial and a comprehensive overview is lacking. This systematic review aimed to identify genetic biomarkers of platinum-induced hematological toxicity. Method: Pubmed, Embase and Web of science database were systematically reviewed for studies that evaluated the association of genetic variants and platinum-related hematological toxicity in tumor patients with no prior history of chemotherapy or radiation, published from inception to the 28th of January 2022. The studies should have specific toxicity scoring system as well as defined toxicity end-point. The quality of reporting was assessed using the Strengthening the Reporting of Genetic Association Studies (STREGA) checklist. Results were summarized using narrative synthesis. Results: 83 studies were eligible with over 682 single-nucleotide polymorphisms across 110 genes. The results are inconsistent and diverse with methodological issues including insufficient sample size, population stratification, various treatment schedule and toxicity end-point, and inappropriate statistics. 11 SNPs from 10 genes (ABCB1 rs1128503, GSTP1 rs1695, GSTM1 gene deletion, ERCC1 rs11615, ERCC1 rs3212986, ERCC2 rs238406, XPC rs2228001, XPCC1 rs25487, MTHFR rs1801133, MDM2 rs2279744, TP53 rs1042522) had consistent results in more than two independent populations. Among them, GSTP1 rs1695, ERCC1 rs11615, ERCC1 rs3212986, and XRCC1 rs25487 present the most promising results. Conclusion: Even though the results are inconsistent and severalmethodological concerns exist, this systematic review identified several genetic variations that deserve validation in well-defined studies with larger sample size and robust methodology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Innovation capabilities (ICs) represent a crucial source of competitive advantage for firms. However, the literature on ICs is extensive, leading to a diverse understanding of their nature and measurement. A notable gap exists in delineating the dimensions constituting ICs. This article aims to address this gap by identifying and pinpointing the various dimensions of ICs through a systematic literature review (SLR). The initial step involves identifying the diverse dimensions used in ICs, providing a distinctive insight for assessing their metrics. Notably, this SLR stands out as the only comprehensive analysis of various ICs dimensions, organizing them coherently. Examining 103 articles from the Web of Science and Scopus databases spanning from 2001 to 2022, the results reveal an amalgam of scales and associated approaches for IC measurement. This study contributes to the literature by systematically identifying and analyzing the main dimensions employed by researchers to measure ICs. Additionally, it highlights the foundational theoretical approaches of the identified studies. In practical terms, the study consolidates and presents the identified dimensions and metrics in integrative tables, offering researchers and companies valuable insights into diverse innovation paths that impact performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the main causes of blindness and visual impairment worldwide. Intravitreal complement inhibitors are an emergent approach in the treatment of AMD, which have had encouraging results. This systematic review analyzes the outcomes and safety of complement inhibitor therapies for GA in AMD cases. Methods: A comprehensive search on the PubMed and Web of Science databases returned 18 studies involving various complement inhibitor agents, with a total of 4272 patients and a mean follow-up of 68.2 ± 20.4 weeks. Results: Most treated patients were white (96.8%) and female (55.8%), with a mean age of 78.3 ± 7.8 years and a mean GA area of 8.0 ± 3.9 mm2. There were no differences in visual function change between treated and control participants. The mean GA area change was 2.4 ± 0.7 mm2 in treated participants vs. 2.7 ± 0.8 mm2 in control groups (p < 0.001). The ocular and systemic side effects were similar to those of intravitreal anti-VEGF. A less-understood effect was that of the onset of choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in 1.1–13% of patients; this effect was found to be more frequent in patients with neovascular AMD in the fellow eye or nonexudative CNV in the study eye at baseline. Conclusions: Complement inhibitors may represent a useful therapy for GA in AMD, but a personalized approach to patient selection is necessary to optimize the outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Haptic feedback is an established method to provide sensory information (tactile or kinesthetic) about the performance of an activity that an individual can not consciously detect. After a stroke, hemiparesis usually leads to gait and balance disorders, where haptic feedback can be a promising approach to promote recovery. The aim of the present study is to understand its potential effects on gait and balance impairments, both after interventions and in terms of immediate effects. Methods: This research was carried out using the following scientific databases: Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and Medline/PubMed from inception to May 2024. The Checklist for Measuring quality, PEDro scale, and the Cochrane collaboration tool were used to assess the methodological quality and risk of bias of the studies. Results: Thirteen articles were chosen for qualitative analysis, with four providing data for the meta-analysis. The findings did not yield definitive evidence on the effectiveness of haptic feedback for treating balance and gait disorders following a stroke. Conclusions: Further research is necessary in order to determine the effectiveness of haptic feedback mechanisms, with larger sample sizes and more robust methodologies. Longer interventions and pre–post design in gait training with haptic feedback are necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Seborrheic dermatitis (SD) is a common chronic inflammatory skin disease. In recent years, significant progress has been made in the field of SD, but there has been no bibliometric research yet. This study aims to use bibliometric methods to analyze the current research status and hot topics of SD, to understand further the research trends and future development prospects in this field. Methods: Retrieve core literature on SD from the Web of Science database and conduct a detailed analysis using CiteSpace and VOSviewer software based on factors such as publication volume, countries (regions), research institutions, journals, authors, highly‐cited papers, and keywords. Results: From 1996 to 2024, a total of 1436 publications were included in the bibliometric analysis. The number of publications has shown an increasing trend year by year. The USA is the leading country in this field of research. The University of California System is the primary research institution. The International Journal of Dermatology is the journal with the highest number of publications. The author Yang Won Lee has the highest number of publications, while the article "Seborrheic Dermatitis" (2004) by Gupta, A.K. has been cited the most. "Seborrheic dermatitis" is the most frequently occurring keyword. The main research hotspots and frontiers in SD are as follows: (1) The relationship between SD and other skin diseases is a popular research topic; (2) Malassezia and inflammation are current research hotspots in SD; and (3) Focusing on antifungal and anti‐inflammatory treatments for SD is the current frontier direction in this field. Conclusion: This study is a summary of the current status and hot trends of SD research, which helps clinical doctors and researchers quickly understand the insights and valuable information of SD research and provides reference for clinical decision‐making and finding future research directions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Psoriasis is an immune‐mediated inflammatory skin disease. First‐line topical treatments include steroids, calcineurin inhibitors, vitamin D analogs, and anthralin. Recently, novel topical therapeutics like tapinarof and roflumilast have emerged with unique anti‐inflammatory mechanisms and promising efficacy profiles. Materials and methods: This review utilized PubMed, SCOPUS, and Web of Science databases to identify recent studies on tapinarof and roflumilast. Criteria focused on efficacy, safety profiles, and therapeutic roles in psoriasis treatment. Results: Four primary literature articles were identified for tapinarof and five for roflumilast. Both drugs demonstrated strong efficacy with minimal adverse events in treating mild‐to‐moderate plaque psoriasis. Tapinarof showed more frequent but mild adverse effects, while roflumilast had less frequent but more severe side effects. Discussion: Tapinarof and roflumilast offer once‐daily dosing and successful treatment in restricted areas, potentially enhancing patient adherence. Cost remains a limiting factor, necessitating future comparative studies to evaluate the efficacy, safety, and cost‐effectiveness between the two drugs. Conclusion: Tapinarof and roflumilast present promising topical treatments for psoriasis, showing efficacy and manageable safety profiles. Further research is crucial to fully elucidate their comparative benefits and drawbacks in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Therapeutic management of colorectal cancer (CRC) does not yet yield promising long‐term results. Therefore, there is a need for further investigation of possible therapeutic options. Various experiments have studied the effects of apigenin on CRC and have shown conflicting results. This systematic review and meta‐analysis investigates the currently existing evidence on the effect of apigenin on CRC. Methods: Medline, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were searched for articles related to apigenin and its effect on CRC in the preclinical setting. Cell viability, growth inhibition, apoptosis, and cell cycle arrest for in‐vitro, and body weight, tumor size, and mortality in in‐vivo studies were extracted as outcomes. Results: Thirty‐nine articles investigating colorectal adenocarcinoma were included in this meta‐analysis. Thirty‐seven of these studies had data for in vitro experiments, with eight studies having data for in vivo experiments. Six articles had both in vitro and in vivo assessments. Our analysis showed apigenin reduces cell viability and induces growth inhibition, apoptosis, and cell cycle arrest in in vitro studies. The few in vivo studies indicate that apigenin decreases tumor size while showing no effects on the body weight of animal colorectal adenocarcinoma models. Conclusion: Our results demonstrated that apigenin, through reducing cell viability, inducing growth inhibition, apoptosis, and cell cycle arrest, and also by decreasing the tumor size, can be considered as a possible adjuvant agent in the management of colorectal adenocarcinoma. However, further in vivo studies are needed before any efforts to translate the current evidence into clinical studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Drosophila suzukii (Matsumura, 1931) is a widespread agricultural pest responsible for significant damage to various soft-skinned fruit hosts. The revolutionary potential of bioinformatics in agriculture emerges from its ability to provide extensive information on pests, fungi, chemical resistance, implications of non-target species, and other critical aspects. This wealth of information allows researchers to engage in projects and applied research in diverse agricultural domains that face these challenges. In this context, bioinformatics tools play a fundamental role. The negative impact of pests on crops, resulting in substantial economic losses, has highlighted the importance of in silico methods. Methods: To achieve this, we conducted a systematic search in scientific databases using as keywords "Drosophila suzukii," "biopesticides," "simulations computational," and "in-silico." After applying the filters of relevance and publication date, we organized the articles and prioritized those that directly addressed that matched the keywords and the use of bioinformatics tools. Additionally, we included studies focusing on in silico assays of biopesticides, such as molecular docking. Our review aimed to present a collection of recent literature on biopesticides against Drosophila suzukii, emphasizing bioinformatics methods. Through this work, we strive to contribute to the literature of new perspectives on the development and efficiency of biopesticides, along with to advance research that may improve pest control strategies. Results: In the results of the systematic review, we found 2734 articles related to the selected keywords. Six of these articles directly address Drosophila suzukii and the use of bioinformatics tools in the search for alternatives in pest control. In the selected studies, we observed that two articles tend to focus on phylogenetic approaches, searching for gene sequences, amino acids, and constructing phylogenetic trees. The other three articles used molecular modeling and docking of receptors such as GABA and TRP with plant-derived and synthetic compounds to study intermolecular interactions. However, we identified gaps in these studies that could lead to further research in the biorational development of biopesticides using bioinformatics tools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: We sought to identify in which clinical scenarios 3D printed models are used to plan for fetal surgeries as well as the main purpose and the imaging method utilized for the models. In addition, we describe benefits and shortcomings of the models, as well as potential future improvements. Methods: In this scoping review, data were collected retrospectively from scientific databases (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane CENTRAL, CINAHL, Scopus, and the Web of Science platform) and screened by title, abstract, and full text against strict criteria. The inclusion criteria required the study be performed on a live fetus and involve 3D models used for fetal surgery. The models must have been designed from diagnostic imaging modalities such as CT, MRI, or ultrasound. The articles considered include clinical trials, review articles, cohort studies, case series, case reports, and conference abstracts. Results: Of the initial 742 articles collected, six met the inclusion criteria. Spina bifida and EXIT procedures were the most frequent use cases that inspired surgeons to print models for surgical planning. The ability to view patient-specific anatomy in a 3D handheld model was often touted as providing a great benefit to the surgical team's ability to anticipate intraoperative challenges. Conclusions: Three-dimensional printing models have been applied to plan for fetal surgeries, more specifically, for EXIT procedures and fetoscopic surgical repair of spina bifida. The potential benefits of 3D printing in fetal surgery are enormous. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The need for the decarbonization of heavy-duty vehicles requires a deep understanding about the effects of biofuels, which represent a viable pathway to cut the emissions in the hard-to-abate sectors, like agricultural tractors. A novel meta-analysis approach can help to thoroughly investigate the effects of biodiesel blends on farm tractor engines in terms of performance and emissions. Studies were identified using the main keywords related to internal combustion engines in prominent scientific databases. Standardized mean differences were calculated for each study to evaluate engine performance and gas emissions. Mixed-effects regression models were developed to investigate performance and environmental pollution changes over different biodiesel blending ratios, biodiesel sources, and engine types. The analysis revealed significant effects of biodiesel blending ratio on decreasing torque [−13.0%, CI 95% (6.7%–19.3%); I2 = 97.67; p = 0.000; Q = 129.94], engine power [−15.0%, CI 95% (10.0–20.0%); I2 = 54.82; p = 0.000; Q = 101.81], CO2 emissions [−24.1%(15.0–32.0%); I2 = 0.198; p = 0.000; Q = 20.04], and CO emissions [−17.5%, CI 95% (16.0–18.0%); I2 = 98.62; p = 0.000; Q = 97.69], while increasing specific fuel consumption [+5.2%, CI 95% (1.0–9.0%); I2 = 95.94; p = 0.000; Q = 129.74] and NO emissions [+11.0%, CI 95% (6.0–15.0%); I2 = 98.51; p = 0.000; Q = 157.56]. The same analysis did not show any influence of the sources of biodiesel and the engine type. Finally, meta-regression found a significant positive association between increasing ratios of biodiesels and decreasing torque, engine power, CO and CO2 emissions, and increasing fuel consumption and NO emissions in terms of linear equations. Although through these equations it is not possible to individuate an optimal range of blending ratios able to lower the emissions and not affect the engine parameters, the range from 9.1% to 13.0% of biodiesel is a good tradeoff. Within it, the only decrease in engine performance is in charge of the power, however contained within 4%, while CO and CO2 emissions are reduced (respectively by 0.0%/−2.8% and −3.6%/−6.0%) without using any specific pollutant abatement systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Exosomes, a subset of extracellular vesicles (EVs), are crucial for intercellular communication in various contexts. Despite their small size, they carry diverse cargo, including RNA, proteins, and lipids. Internalization by recipient cells raises concerns about potential disruptions to cellular functions. Notably, the ability of exosomes to traverse the blood-brain barrier (BBB) has significant implications. Methods: To conduct a thorough investigation into the existing academic literature on exosomes within the framework of neuron-glia communication, a comprehensive search strategy was implemented across the PubMed, Google Scholar, and Science Direct databases. Multiple iterations of the keywords "exosome," "neuron-glia communication," and "neurological disorders" were employed to systematically identify relevant publications. Furthermore, an exploration of the Clinicaltrials. gov database was undertaken to identify clinical trials related to cellular signaling, utilizing analogous terminology. Results: Although the immediate practical applications of exosomes are somewhat limited, their potential as carriers of pathogenic attributes offers promising opportunities for the development of precisely targeted therapeutic strategies for neurological disorders. This review presents a comprehensive overview of contemporary insights into the pivotal roles played by exosomes as agents mediating communication between neurons and glial cells within the central nervous system (CNS). Conclusion: By delving into the intricate dynamics of exosomal communication in the CNS, this review contributes to a deeper understanding of the roles of exosomes in both physiological and pathological processes, thereby paving the way for potential therapeutic advancements in the field of neurological disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Diabetes has been related to higher risk and poor prognosis of patients with tuberculosis, while the influence of prediabetes on the treatment outcome of patients with tuberculosis remains not determined. A meta‐analysis was performed to evaluate the influence of prediabetes on treatment outcome of patients with tuberculosis. Methods: Relevant cohort studies were acquired through a search of Medline, Embase, and Web of Science databases. To minimise the influence of between‐study heterogeneity, a randomised‐effects model was used to pool the results. Results: Eight prospective cohort studies including 3001 patients with tuberculosis were available for the meta‐analysis. Among them, 752 (25.1%) were with prediabetes at baseline, and the patients were followed for a mean duration of 17.7 months. It was shown that compared to patients with normoglycemia, those with prediabetes were associated with a higher incidence of unfavourable treatment outcome (risk ratio [RR]: 1.41, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.02 to 1.96, p = 0.04; I2 = 56%). Subgroup analysis did not support that difference in study country (Asian or non‐Asian), diagnosis (pulmonary tuberculosis only or also with extrapulmonary tuberculosis), mean age, follow‐up duration, or study quality score had significant influence on the results (p for subgroup difference all >0.05). However, prediabetes at baseline was not associated with an increased risk of all‐cause mortality during follow‐up (RR: 1.59, 95% CI: 0.75 to 3.38, p = 0.23; I2 = 54%). Conclusions: Patients with tuberculosis and prediabetes may have a higher risk of unfavourable treatment outcome compared to patients with normoglycemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]