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Dacarbazine (DTIC) and its oral counterpart temozolomide (TMZ) have been the most used agents in advanced malignant melanoma (MM) patients and they are still used routinely. The preferred first line treatment, immune checkpoint inhibitors (CPIs) might shape the tumor and the tumor microenvironment, possibly affecting the response to subsequent therapies. The aim of this study was to investigate the treatment effect of DTIC/TMZ in MM patients after CPI therapy in a consecutive patient cohort and through systematic literature review and meta-analysis. Thirty-five patients with advanced MM treated with DTIC/TMZ after previous CPI therapy in three Swedish regions between 2017 and 2021 were recognized and seven case series studies were identified through systematic database review. Pooled data from all 345 patients showed a median real-world progression-free survival (rwPFS) of 1.9 months and overall survival (OS) of 6.0 months. Three of these studies were included in a meta-analysis comparing DTIC/TMZ after CPI treatment, versus no previous immunotherapy, showing no statistically significant differences in rwPFS or OS but higher real-world response rate to chemotherapy for the prior-CPI treated group (Odds Ratio: 2.24; 95% Confidence Interval: 1.04-4.86). The current study supports consideration of DTIC/TMZ in later line of treatment in the immunotherapy era., This study was supported by grants to G.J. Ullenhag and V. Rydén from The Research Foundation Stiftelsen Onkologiska Klinikens i Uppsala Forskningsfond and Uppsala University Hospital (ALF).

People with schizophrenia die prematurely, yet regional differences are unclear. PRISMA 2020-compliant systematic review/random-effects meta-analysis of cohort studies assessing mortality relative risk (RR) versus any control group, and moderators, in people with ICD/DSM-defined schizophrenia, comparing countries and continents. We conducted subgroup, meta-regression analyses, and quality assessment. The primary outcome was all-cause mortality. Secondary outcomes were suicide-, /natural-cause- and other-cause-related mortality. We included 135 studies from Europe (n = 70), North-America (n = 29), Asia (n = 33), Oceania (n = 2), Africa (n = 1). In incident plus prevalent schizophrenia, differences across continents emerged for all-cause mortality (highest in Africa, RR=5.98, 95 %C.I.=4.09-8.74, k = 1, lowest in North-America, RR=2.14, 95 %C.I.=1.92-2.38, k = 16), suicide (highest in Oceania, RR=13.5, 95 %C.I.=10.08-18.07, k = 1, lowest in North-America, RR=4.4, 95 %C.I.=4.07-4.76, k = 6), but not for natural-cause mortality. Europe had the largest association between antipsychotics and lower all-cause mortality/suicide (Asia had the smallest or no significant association, respectively), without differences for natural-cause mortality. Higher country socio-demographic index significantly moderated larger suicide-related and smaller natural-cause-related mortality risk in incident schizophrenia, with reversed associations in prevalent schizophrenia. Antipsychotics had a larger/smaller protective association in incident/prevalent schizophrenia regarding all-cause mortality, and smaller protective association for suicide-related mortality in prevalent schizophrenia. Additional regional differences emerged in incident schizophrenia, across countries, and secondary outcomes. Significant regional differences emerged for all-cause, cause-specific and suicide-related mortality. Natural-cause death was homogeneously increased globally. Moderators differed across countries. Glo, Unrestricted educational grant by Janssen Pharmaceuticals to Medscape.

Summary: The relationship between self-reported falls and fracture risk was estimated in an international meta-analysis of individual-level data from 46 prospective cohorts. Previous falls were associated with an increased fracture risk in women and men and should be considered as an additional risk factor in the FRAX® algorithm. Introduction: Previous falls are a well-documented risk factor for subsequent fracture but have not yet been incorporated into the FRAX algorithm. The aim of this study was to evaluate, in an international meta-analysis, the association between previous falls and subsequent fracture risk and its relation to sex, age, duration of follow-up, and bone mineral density (BMD). Methods: The resource comprised 906,359 women and men (66.9% female) from 46 prospective cohorts. Previous falls were uniformly defined as any fall occurring during the previous year in 43 cohorts; the remaining three cohorts had a different question construct. The association between previous falls and fracture risk (any clinical fracture, osteoporotic fracture, major osteoporotic fracture, and hip fracture) was examined using an extension of the Poisson regression model in each cohort and each sex, followed by random-effects meta-analyses of the weighted beta coefficients. Results: Falls in the past year were reported in 21.4% of individuals. During a follow-up of 9,102,207 person-years, 87,352 fractures occurred of which 19,509 were hip fractures. A previous fall was associated with a significantly increased risk of any clinical fracture both in women (hazard ratio (HR) 1.42, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.33–1.51) and men (HR 1.53, 95% CI 1.41–1.67). The HRs were of similar magnitude for osteoporotic, major osteoporotic fracture, and hip fracture. Sex significantly modified the association between previous fall and fracture risk, with predictive values being higher in men than in women (e.g., for major osteoporotic fracture, HR 1.53 (95% CI 1.27–1.84) in men vs. HR 1.32

Sketch-based image retrieval (SBIR) utilizes sketches to search for images containing similar objects or scenes. Due to the proliferation of touch-screen devices, sketching has become more accessible and therefore has received increasing attention. Deep learning has emerged as a potential tool for SBIR, allowing models to automatically extract image features and learn from large amounts of data. To the best of our knowledge, there is currently no systematic literature review (SLR) of SBIR with deep learning. Therefore, the aim of this review is to incorporate related works into a systematic study, highlighting the main contributions of individual researchers over the years, with a focus on past, present and future trends. To achieve the purpose of this study, 90 studies from 2016 to June 2023 in 4 databases were collected and analyzed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) framework. The specific models, datasets, evaluation metrics, and applications of deep learning in SBIR are discussed in detail. This study found that Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) and Generative Adversarial Networks (GAN) are the most widely used deep learning methods for SBIR. A commonly used dataset is Sketchy, especially in the latest Zero-shot sketch-based image retrieval (ZS-SBIR) task. The results show that Mean Average Precision (mAP) is the most commonly used metric for quantitative evaluation of SBIR. Finally, we provide some future directions and guidance for researchers based on the results of this review. © 2013 IEEE.

PURPOSE: The aim of the present systematic review was to investigate the influence of hypertension on the dental implant failure rate. METHODS: An electronic search was undertaken in four databases, plus a manual search of journals. The I2 statistic was used to check heterogeneity and the inverse-variance method was used for the meta-analysis. The estimate of relative effect for dichotomous outcome was expressed as an odds ratio (OR). RESULTS: The review included 24 publications. There were 4874 implants (257 failures) placed in hypertensive patients and 16,192 implants (809 failures) placed in normotensive patients. A pairwise meta-analysis showed that implants in hypertensive patients did not have a higher risk of failure than implants placed in normotensive patients (OR 1.100, p = 0.671). The log OR of implant failure between hypertensive and normotensive patients did not significantly change with the follow-up time (p = 0.824). CONCLUSIONS: This review suggests that implants in hypertensive patients do not present higher odds of failure in comparison to normotensive patients. However, further research on this topic, with the use of more rigorous criteria to diagnose patients as being hypertensive, as well as clearer information about the pharmacological management of the condition in the patients, is recommended.

Objective: To carry out a systematic review of systematic reviews with an update of the existing evidence relating to a broad range of smoking cessation interventions, including psycho-social, digital and pharmacologic interventions, for pregnant women. Data-sources: Search was conducted in March 2022 in PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane in two stages: 1) a search of systematic reviews and meta-analyses, published from January 2012 through January 2022; 2) an update of those that fulfilled eligibility criteria reproducing the primary search strategy. Study eligibility criteria: We selected randomized clinical trials (RCTs) that evaluated the effectiveness of pharmacological, digital, and psychosocial interventions in aged 18 years and over who were daily smokers, and compared these with routine care, less intense interventions or placebo. Study appraisal and synthesis methods: Data from eligible studies were manually extracted by two authors and reviewed by a third. The quality of the reviews was evaluated using the AMSTAR scale, and risk of bias was measured with the Rob-2 tool and GRADE level of evidence. Results: The meta-analysis included 63 RCTs (n = 19849 women). The interventions found to be effective were: financial incentives (RR:1.77; 95%CI:1.21–2.58), counseling (RR:1.27; 95%CI:1.13–1.43) and long-term nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) (RR:1.53; 95%CI:1.16–2.01). Short-term NRT, bupropion, digital interventions, feedback, social support, and exercise showed no effectiveness. The GRADE level of evidence was moderate-tohigh for all interventions, with the exception of long-term NRT. Conclusions: Non-pharmacological interventions for smoking cessation are the most effective for pregnant women. The moderator analysis suggests that pregnant women of low socioeconomic status might benefit less from smoking cessation interventions than women of a high socioeconomic status. These women are usually heavier smokers that live in pro-smoking environments and could requir

Context: Former literature revealed team performance is contingent on personality composition and interactive effects of team climate. While decades of research on personality prevails in software engineering, team climate remains sparsely researched. Objective: In agile software development, individuals and interactions are key sources of agility. This study replicates a previous study and analyzes the relationship between five-factor-model personality traits and team climate dimensions among agile teams in a telecom company. Method: A Web-based survey was replicated twice, first with 75 professionals from 12 teams in Sweden, followed by 46 professionals from seven teams in India. The data was used for correlation, regression analyses, and meta-analysis. Results: We observed significant negative correlations between neuroticism and all the team climate dimensions. Meta-analysis identified a significant medium-sized negative effect between neuroticism and participative safety. Regression analysis showed personality traits accounted for around 10 % of the variance in team climate dimensions. Conclusions: High neuroticism is not conducive to team climate as emotionally unstable members could impair team cohesion by being reactive and susceptible to stress. Managers assembling Scrum teams ought to mitigate higher neuroticism by counterbalancing it with an elevation of corresponding negatively correlated personality variables and providing support/training towards increasing the aforementioned variables. © 2023

Sketch-based image retrieval (SBIR) utilizes sketches to search for images containing similar objects or scenes. Due to the proliferation of touch-screen devices, sketching has become more accessible and therefore has received increasing attention. Deep learning has emerged as a potential tool for SBIR, allowing models to automatically extract image features and learn from large amounts of data. To the best of our knowledge, there is currently no systematic literature review (SLR) of SBIR with deep learning. Therefore, the aim of this review is to incorporate related works into a systematic study, highlighting the main contributions of individual researchers over the years, with a focus on past, present and future trends. To achieve the purpose of this study, 90 studies from 2016 to June 2023 in 4 databases were collected and analyzed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) framework. The specific models, datasets, evaluation metrics, and applications of deep learning in SBIR are discussed in detail. This study found that Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) and Generative Adversarial Networks (GAN) are the most widely used deep learning methods for SBIR. A commonly used dataset is Sketchy, especially in the latest Zero-shot sketch-based image retrieval (ZS-SBIR) task. The results show that Mean Average Precision (mAP) is the most commonly used metric for quantitative evaluation of SBIR. Finally, we provide some future directions and guidance for researchers based on the results of this review. © 2013 IEEE.

Context: Former literature revealed team performance is contingent on personality composition and interactive effects of team climate. While decades of research on personality prevails in software engineering, team climate remains sparsely researched. Objective: In agile software development, individuals and interactions are key sources of agility. This study replicates a previous study and analyzes the relationship between five-factor-model personality traits and team climate dimensions among agile teams in a telecom company. Method: A Web-based survey was replicated twice, first with 75 professionals from 12 teams in Sweden, followed by 46 professionals from seven teams in India. The data was used for correlation, regression analyses, and meta-analysis. Results: We observed significant negative correlations between neuroticism and all the team climate dimensions. Meta-analysis identified a significant medium-sized negative effect between neuroticism and participative safety. Regression analysis showed personality traits accounted for around 10 % of the variance in team climate dimensions. Conclusions: High neuroticism is not conducive to team climate as emotionally unstable members could impair team cohesion by being reactive and susceptible to stress. Managers assembling Scrum teams ought to mitigate higher neuroticism by counterbalancing it with an elevation of corresponding negatively correlated personality variables and providing support/training towards increasing the aforementioned variables. © 2023

Sketch-based image retrieval (SBIR) utilizes sketches to search for images containing similar objects or scenes. Due to the proliferation of touch-screen devices, sketching has become more accessible and therefore has received increasing attention. Deep learning has emerged as a potential tool for SBIR, allowing models to automatically extract image features and learn from large amounts of data. To the best of our knowledge, there is currently no systematic literature review (SLR) of SBIR with deep learning. Therefore, the aim of this review is to incorporate related works into a systematic study, highlighting the main contributions of individual researchers over the years, with a focus on past, present and future trends. To achieve the purpose of this study, 90 studies from 2016 to June 2023 in 4 databases were collected and analyzed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) framework. The specific models, datasets, evaluation metrics, and applications of deep learning in SBIR are discussed in detail. This study found that Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) and Generative Adversarial Networks (GAN) are the most widely used deep learning methods for SBIR. A commonly used dataset is Sketchy, especially in the latest Zero-shot sketch-based image retrieval (ZS-SBIR) task. The results show that Mean Average Precision (mAP) is the most commonly used metric for quantitative evaluation of SBIR. Finally, we provide some future directions and guidance for researchers based on the results of this review. © 2013 IEEE.

Sketch-based image retrieval (SBIR) utilizes sketches to search for images containing similar objects or scenes. Due to the proliferation of touch-screen devices, sketching has become more accessible and therefore has received increasing attention. Deep learning has emerged as a potential tool for SBIR, allowing models to automatically extract image features and learn from large amounts of data. To the best of our knowledge, there is currently no systematic literature review (SLR) of SBIR with deep learning. Therefore, the aim of this review is to incorporate related works into a systematic study, highlighting the main contributions of individual researchers over the years, with a focus on past, present and future trends. To achieve the purpose of this study, 90 studies from 2016 to June 2023 in 4 databases were collected and analyzed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) framework. The specific models, datasets, evaluation metrics, and applications of deep learning in SBIR are discussed in detail. This study found that Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) and Generative Adversarial Networks (GAN) are the most widely used deep learning methods for SBIR. A commonly used dataset is Sketchy, especially in the latest Zero-shot sketch-based image retrieval (ZS-SBIR) task. The results show that Mean Average Precision (mAP) is the most commonly used metric for quantitative evaluation of SBIR. Finally, we provide some future directions and guidance for researchers based on the results of this review. © 2013 IEEE.

Context: Former literature revealed team performance is contingent on personality composition and interactive effects of team climate. While decades of research on personality prevails in software engineering, team climate remains sparsely researched. Objective: In agile software development, individuals and interactions are key sources of agility. This study replicates a previous study and analyzes the relationship between five-factor-model personality traits and team climate dimensions among agile teams in a telecom company. Method: A Web-based survey was replicated twice, first with 75 professionals from 12 teams in Sweden, followed by 46 professionals from seven teams in India. The data was used for correlation, regression analyses, and meta-analysis. Results: We observed significant negative correlations between neuroticism and all the team climate dimensions. Meta-analysis identified a significant medium-sized negative effect between neuroticism and participative safety. Regression analysis showed personality traits accounted for around 10 % of the variance in team climate dimensions. Conclusions: High neuroticism is not conducive to team climate as emotionally unstable members could impair team cohesion by being reactive and susceptible to stress. Managers assembling Scrum teams ought to mitigate higher neuroticism by counterbalancing it with an elevation of corresponding negatively correlated personality variables and providing support/training towards increasing the aforementioned variables. © 2023

Objective: This study aimed to quantify heterogeneity in the value for money of precision medicine (PM) by application types across contexts and conditions and to quantify sources of heterogeneity to areas of particular promises or concerns as the field of PM moves forward. Methods: A systemic search was performed in Embase, Medline, EconLit, and CRD databases for studies published between 2011 and 2021 on cost-effectiveness analysis (CEA) of PM interventions. Based on a willingness-to-pay threshold of one-time GDP per capita of each study country, the net monetary benefit (NMB) of PM was pooled using random-effects meta-analyses. Sources of heterogeneity and study biases were examined using random-effects meta-regressions, jackknife sensitivity analysis, and the biases in economic studies checklist. Results: Among the 275 unique CEAs of PM, publicly sponsored studies found neither genetic testing nor gene therapy cost-effective in general, which was contradictory to studies funded by commercial entities and early stage evaluations. Evidence of PM being cost-effective was concentrated in a genetic test for screening, diagnosis, or as companion diagnostics (pooled NMBs, $48,152, $8,869, $5,693, p < 0.001), in the form of multigene panel testing (pooled NMBs = $31,026, p < 0.001), which only applied to a few disease areas such as cancer and high-income countries. Incremental effectiveness was an essential value driver for varied genetic tests but not gene therapy. Conclusion: Precision medicine’s value for money across application types and contexts was difficult to conclude from published studies, which might be subject to systematic bias. The conducting and reporting of CEA of PM should be locally based and standardized for meaningful comparisons.

Plant diversity effects on community productivity often increase over time. Whether the strengthening of diversity effects is caused by temporal shifts in species-level overyielding (i.e., higher species-level productivity in diverse communities compared with monocultures) remains unclear. Here, using data from 65 grassland and forest biodiversity experiments, we show that the temporal strength of diversity effects at the community scale is underpinned by temporal changes in the species that yield. These temporal trends of species-level overyielding are shaped by plant ecological strategies, which can be quantitatively delimited by functional traits. In grasslands, the temporal strengthening of biodiversity effects on community productivity was associated with increasing biomass overyielding of resource-conservative species increasing over time, and with overyielding of species characterized by fast resource acquisition either decreasing or increasing. In forests, temporal trends in species overyielding differ when considering above- versus belowground resource acquisition strategies. Overyielding in stem growth decreased for species with high light capture capacity but increased for those with high soil resource acquisition capacity. Our results imply that a diversity of species with different, and potentially complementary, ecological strategies is beneficial for maintaining community productivity over time in both grassland and forest ecosystems.

In this article, we aim to investigate the effect of corporate social responsibility (CSR)-oriented boards on triple bottom-line (TBL) performance and whether internal corporate governance exhibits a facilitating role in achieving the sustainable development goals by enhancing the performance indicators of the TBL. Specifically, this article aims to shed light on this issue by meta-analyzing the relationship between good governance and both social and financial performance, using a global sample to facilitate this analysis taking into account the incidence of the institutional characteristics of different countries and their impact on the relationship studied, by means of eight meta-analyses. For this purpose, we conducted a meta-analytic study on a sample of 289 articles published between 1997 and 2021. The results show that CSR-oriented boards have a direct effect on corporate social performance (CSP) indicators and that their impact on financial outcomes is mediated by CSP strategies. Board size, gender diversity, and board independence present a facilitator profile of CSP, while only gender diversity enhances financial outcomes. The influence of CSR-oriented boards is more acute in countries with greater protection for stakeholders and stronger environmental awareness.

Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) is the overarching term for a set of rare inherited skin fragility disorders that result from mutations in at least 20 different genes. Currently, there is no cure for any of the EB subtypes associated with various mutations. Existing therapies primarily focus on alleviating pain and promoting early wound healing to prevent potential complications. Consequently, there is an urgent need for innovative therapeutic approaches. The objective of this research was to assess the efficacy of various topical treatments in patients with EB with the goal of achieving wound healing. A secondary objective was to analyse the efficacy of topical treatments for symptom reduction. A literature search was conducted using scientific databases, including The Cochrane Library, Medline (Pubmed), Web of Science, CINHAL, Embase, and Scopus. The protocol review was registered in PROSPERO (ID: 418790), and inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied, resulting in the selection of 23 articles. Enhanced healing times were observed compared with the control group. No conclusive data have been observed on pain management, infection, pruritus episodes, and cure rates over time. Additionally, evidence indicates significant progress in gene therapies (B-VEC), as well as cell and protein therapies. The dressing group, Oleogel S-10, allantoin and diacerein 1%, were the most represented, followed by fibroblast utilisation. In addition, emerging treatments that improve the patient’s innate immunity, such as calcipotriol, are gaining attention. However, more trials are needed to reduce the prevalence of blistering and improve the quality of life of individuals with epidermolysis bullosa.

The objective of this article is to present the methodology called ‘systematic review’ as a novel and useful instrument for bibliographic research in the field of E/LE. First, we present a taxonomy of literature reviews based on the general aspects that define them. Next, we address a typology of reviews and their characteristics, on the one hand, contrasting the traditional background review with the modern systematic review, on the other hand, comparing the different types targeted. We also highlight the advantages and disadvantages of this method. Through this approach to the concept of systematic review as an object of scientific research with its own characteristics, we ultimately aim to publicize a methodology that we believe has a lot of potential in the area of E/LE, where it is practically unknown, and that may interest those who decide to undertake bibliographic research., El objetivo de este artículo es presentar la metodología denominada ‘revisión sistemática’ (systematic review) como instrumento novedoso y útil para la investigación de naturaleza bibliográfica en el ámbito del E/LE. Para ello, primero, reseñamos una taxonomía de revisiones de bibliografía basada en las características generales que las definen. Seguidamente, abordamos una tipología de revisiones y sus rasgos particulares: por un lado, contrastando la revisión tradicional de antecedentes con la moderna revisión sistemática; por otro lado, comparando los diferentes tipos apuntados. Asimismo, destacamos las ventajas y desventajas de las revisiones modernas. Mediante esta aproximación al concepto de revisión sistemática como objeto de investigación científica con características propias pretendemos, en última instancia, dar a conocer una metodología que creemos que tiene mucho potencial en el área del E/LE, donde es prácticamente desconocida, y que puede interesar a quienes decidan acometer trabajos de carácter bibliográfico.

Introduction: Depression and anxiety are significant contributors to maternal perinatal morbidity and a range of negative child outcomes. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to review and assess the diagnostic test accuracy of selected screening tools (Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale [EPDS], EPDS-3A, Patient Health Questionnaire [PHQ-9]-, PHQ-2, Matthey Generic Mood Question [MGMQ], Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale [GAD-7], GAD-2, and the Whooley questions) used to identify women with antenatal depression or anxiety in Western countries. Material and methods: On January 16, 2023, we searched 10 databases (CINAHL, Cochrane Library, CRD Database, Embase, Epistemonikos, International HTA Database, KSR Evidence, Ovid MEDLINE, PROSPERO and PsycINFO); the references of included studies were also screened. We included studies of any design that compared case-identification with a relevant screening tool to the outcome of a diagnostic interview based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fourth or fifth edition (DSM-IV or DSM-5), or the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, 10th revision (ICD-10). Diagnoses of interest were major depressive disorder and anxiety disorders. Two authors independently screened abstracts and full-texts for relevance and evaluated the risk of bias using QUADAS-2. Data extraction was performed by one person and checked by another team member for accuracy. For synthesis, a bivariate model was used. The certainty of evidence was assessed using Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE). Registration: PROSPERO CRD42021236333. Results: We screened 8276 records for eligibility and included 16 original articles reporting on diagnostic test accuracy: 12 for the EPDS, one article each for the GAD-2, MGMQ, PHQ-9, PHQ-2, and Whooley questions, and no articles for the EPDS-3A or GAD-7. Most of the studies had moderate to high risk of bias. Ten

Context: Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disease that causes synovitis. Vitamin D deficiency is common in rheumatoid arthritis. Objective: This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated whether vitamin D supplementation affects the inflammatory and clinical outcomes in patients with rheumatoid arthritis on the basis of randomized clinical trials. Data Sources: A literature search was performed in the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, and Google Scholar for articles published until May 2022. Data Extraction: The studies were selected according to PRISMA guidelines, and the risk of bias was assessed for randomized controlled trials. Data Analysis: A random effects model was used to conduct a meta-analysis, and heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 statistic. Of 464 records, 11 studies were included from 3049 patients. Conclusion: Vitamin D supplementation did not significantly reduce C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), disease activity score in 28 joints (DAS28), or the health assessment questionnaire score; however, the response to supplementation was highly heterogeneous. The pooled analysis showed that vitamin D significantly reduced the pain–visual analogue scale (VAS) weighted mean difference (WMD¼ –1.30, 95% confidence interval [CI] [–2.34, 27], P = .01), DAS28–CRP (WMD = –.58, 95% CI [–.86, –.31], P < .0001), and DAS28–ESR (WMD = –.58, 95% CI [–.86, –.31], P = .0001). Subgroup analysis for vitamin D doses (>100 mg per day versus <100 mg per day) showed that the higher doses had a more significant effect on CRP than the lower doses (P < .05). Conclusions: There was no significant difference between the effect of 2 vitamin D doses on ESR and DAS28. To minimize the high heterogeneity among studies in this meta-analysis, other confounding factors such as baseline vitamin D, age, dietary

In light of the fact that fast scientific growth has a profound impact on life in the 21st century, this research aimed to explore the effects of STEM teaching approach on the development of key 21st century competencies related to learning of natural sciences. Consequently, four research hypotheses which state that STEM approach promotes the development of creativity (H1), critical thinking (H2), problem-solving (H3), and science-processing skills (H4) to a greater extent than the traditional approach to teaching of natural sciences have been posed, and their correctness was assessed by means of the meta-analysis. Within the meta-analysis, the results of 21 studies that examined the effects of STEM approach on the development of the above-mentioned competencies among both elementary and high-school pupils were used to calculate the corresponding mean Cohen’s d value for each of the four hypotheses. The mean Cohen’s d values for hypotheses related to creativity and science-processing skills were in the range between 0.5 and 0.8 indicating a moderate positive effect, while the mean Cohen’s d values for hypotheses referring to critical thinking and problem-solving skills were higher than 0.8, indicating a strong positive effect of STEM approach on the development of these competencies, in comparison to traditional teaching approach. Based on such results it can be concluded that all four research hypotheses that were posed are correct, which confirms the considerable potential of STEM teaching approach to contribute to the development of key 21st century skills related to leaning of natural sciences.

Our meta-analysis investigates the environmental sustainability performance of family firms (FFs) distinguishing between environmental hand- and footprint and accounting for FF heterogeneity. Based on a sample of 87 primary studies comprising 118,538 firms, we find no significant difference between FFs and non-FFs regarding their overall environmental sustainability performance. Yet, distinguishing between environmental hand- and footprint, we show that FFs have a lower footprint than non-FFs but do not differ regarding their handprint. Firm size, being a public firm, and type of family involvement moderate the effects of FF status on environmental sustainability performance. Our research note extends prior meta-analytical evidence and contributes to a more fine-grained and nuanced understanding of the environmental sustainability performance of FFs. Theoretical and managerial implications are discussed.

BACKGROUND: Residual disease following cytoreductive surgery in patients with ovarian cancer has been associated with poorer survival outcomes compared with no residual disease. We performed a meta-analysis to assess the impact of varying levels of residual disease status on survival outcomes in patients with ovarian cancer who have undergone primary cytoreductive surgery or interval cytoreductive surgery in the setting of new therapies for this disease. METHODS: Medline, Embase, and Cochrane databases (January 2011 - July 2020) and grey literature, bibliographic and key conference proceedings, were searched for eligible studies. Fixed and random-effects meta-analyses compared progression and survival by residual disease level across studies. Heterogeneity between comparisons was explored via type of surgery, disease stage, and type of adjuvant chemotherapy. RESULTS: Of 2832 database and 16 supplementary search articles screened, 50 studies were selected; most were observational studies. The meta-analysis showed that median progression-free survival and overall survival decreased progressively with increasing residual disease (residual disease categories of 0 cm, > 0-1 cm and > 1 cm). Compared with no residual disease, hazard ratios (HR) for disease progression increased with increasing residual disease category (1.75 [95% confidence interval: 1.42, 2.16] for residual disease > 0-1 cm and 2.14 [1.34, 3.39] for residual disease > 1 cm), and also for reduced survival (HR versus no residual disease, 1.75 [ 1.62, 1.90] for residual disease > 0-1 cm and 2.32 [1.97, 2.72] for residual disease > 1 cm). All comparisons were significant (p < 0.05). Subgroup analyses showed an association between residual disease and disease progression/reduced survival irrespective of type of surgery, disease stage, or type of adjuvant chemotherapy. CONCLUSIONS: This meta-analysis provided an update on the impact of residual disease following primary or interval cytoredu

Anaerobic digestion (AD) has shown the potential to reduce the abundance of antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) and mobile genetic elements (MGEs) in animal manures. It stands as a promising option to reduce the risk of the spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) due to livestock production and manure applications. However, the underlying mechanisms driving these changes still need to be fully understood. This multidisciplinary study aimed to utilize metagenomics to investigate the molecular and microbial mechanisms associated with the evolution of ARGs and MGEs during the anaerobic digestion (AD) of bovine dairy manure. The research focused on three main aspects: 1) examining the long-term effects of mesophilic (MAD) and thermophilic (TAD) anaerobic digestion on the entire set of ARGs (resistome) and MGEs (mobilome) in manure; 2) comparing the impact of alternative manure treatments, such as storage and solid-liquid separation, on resistomes and mobilomes; 3) identifying microbial groups potentially associated with ARGs and MGEs and microbial shifts potentially driving changes in resistomes and mobilomes. A meta-analysis conducted early in this research informed the primary focus of this research. Two anaerobic digesters operating at mesophilic (36 °C) and the other at thermophilic (55 °C) temperatures were set up, operated, monitored, and studied for 4 and 2 years, respectively. Metagenomics analyses were used to evaluate resistomes, mobilomes, and microbiomes in the mesophilic and thermophilic digesters operating under steady state and in the bovine manure used as substrate. The results indicated that MAD and TAD lowered ARG levels in fresh cattle manure by over 50% and MGEs by over 65%. Surprisingly, TAD did not outperform MAD at reducing ARGs and MGEs. Co-occurrence analysis indicated a strong association between microbial groups from the phyla Bacillota (e.g., Jeotgalicoccus, Streptococcus, Enterococcus), Actinomycetota (e.g., Brevibacterium, Rhodococcus)

BACKGROUND: Due to the rapid growth of the world´s oldest population, the number of older persons with stroke is expected to rise. Knowledge of stroke etiology is essential to offer personalized and equal health care across age groups. The present systematic review aimed to investigate the prevalence of etiological subtypes of ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke in older compared to younger people. METHODS: MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane, Epistemonikos, and Cinahl were systematically searched for studies regarding etiological classification in people ≥80 years compared to those <80 years with ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke. RESULTS: Out of 28 441 identified articles, eight met the inclusion criteria. In total, 8223 individuals were included in meta-analyses, of whom 2997 were 80 years or older. We demonstrated a higher prevalence of cardioembolic stroke in people ≥80 years OR 1.68 (95% CI, 1.12-2.53). Small vessel disease was significantly less common in older people OR .64 (95% CI, .50-.81). Regarding large vessel disease, no statistically significant difference between the two groups was shown OR 1.05 (95% CI, .77-1.43). CONCLUSION: In people ≥80 years, cardioembolic stroke is more common, and small vessel disease less common compared to people <80 years. Overall, the results have to be interpreted with caution due to few studies. Large studies using validated classification systems are needed.

Background: While previous studies have indicated variability in distant metastatic potential among different mismatch repair (MMR) states in colorectal cancer (CRC), their findings remain inconclusive, especially considering potential differences across various ethnic backgrounds. Furthermore, the gene regulatory networks and the underlying mechanisms responsible for these variances in metastatic potential across MMR states have yet to be elucidated. Methods: We collected 2058 consecutive primary CRC samples from the South West of China and assessed the expression of MMR proteins (MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, and PMS2) using immunohistochemistry. To explore the inconsistencies between different MMR statuses and recurrence, we performed a meta-analysis. To delve deeper, we employed Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA), ClueGo, and iRegulon, pinpointing gene expression networks and key regulatory molecules linked to metastasis and recurrence in CRC. Lastly, both univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were applied to determine the impact of core regulatory molecules on metastasis. Results: Of the samples, 8.2% displayed deficient MMR (dMMR), with losses of MLH1 and PSM2 observed in 40.8% and 63.9%, respectively. A unique 24.3% isolated loss of PMS2 without concurrent metastasis was identified, a result that diverges from established literature. Additionally, our meta-analysis further solidifies the reduced recurrence likelihood in dMMR CRC samples compared to proficient MMR (pMMR). Two gene expression networks tied to distant metastasis and recurrence were identified, with a majority of metastasis-related genes located on chromosomes 8 and 18. An IRF1 positive feedback loop was discerned in the metastasis-related network, and IRF1 was identified as a predictive marker for both recurrence-free and distant metastasis-free survival across multiple datasets. Conclusion: Geographical and ethnic factors might influence peculiarities in MMR protein loss. Ou, This work was supported by the Research Foundation of Outstanding Young Scholars of Sichuan University (Grant No. 2016SCU04B04, C Wang), Natural Science Foundation of Sichuan Province, China (Grant No. 2022NSFSC0764, CW Fan), the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities (Grant No.2022SCU12025 and 2022SCU12020, CW Fan and FW Long), and Swedish Cancer Foundation and Swedish Research Council (XF Sun).

AIM: The potential role of postmastectomy radiation therapy (PMRT) on prognosis in patients with T1-2 breast cancer and micrometastatic disease in sentinel lymph node dissection (SLND) has not yet been established. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of PMRT on prognosis in patients with T1-2 breast cancer and micrometastatic in SLND. METHOD: A register- and population-based cohort was utilized by identifying eligible patients on the research database BcBase 3.0. Multivariate Cox regression models were applied for survival outcomes. In addition, a systematic literature review and meta-analysis including all relevant studies on this topic was performed. RESULTS: In total, 956 patients fulfilling the inclusion criteria were found through the BcBaSe 3.0 with 237 (25.0 %) receiving PMRT and 719 (75.0 %) not receiving PMRT. No statistically significant differences between the two patient groups in terms of neither breast cancer-specific (adjusted Hazard Ratio (HR): 0.49; 95 % Confidence Interval (CI): 0.14 - 1.73) nor overall survival (adjusted HR: 0.63; 95 % CI: 0.29 - 1.35) was found. In the pooled analyses after literature review, PMRT did not result in better breast cancer-specific (5 studies; pooled HR: 1.06; 95 % CI: 0.88-1.27; I2 = 1 %; low certainty of evidence) or overall survival (6 studies; pooled HR: 1.01; 95 % CI: 0.91-1.13; I2 = 10 %; low certainty of evidence). CONCLUSION: PMRT does not seem to impact survival in patients with T1 or T2 breast cancer with micrometastatic disease in SLND. Considering the low level of evidence and the relatively short follow-up of included studies, caution in interpreting the results into clinical practice is suggested.

This thesis investigates two questions: the methodological strengths and weaknesses of meta-analysis and the diagnostic performance of the Stockholm3 test for clinically significant prostate cancer. Through a systematic review and meta-analysis, we explore the robustness and limitations of meta-analysis, focusing on aspects such as bias assessment, heterogeneity, and the impact of the file-drawer problem. Applying these methods, we evaluate the Stockholm3 test’s performance, comparing it to the conventional Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test. Our analysis synthesizes data from four studies consisting of 6 497 men, indicating that the Stockholm3 test offers improved diagnostic accuracy, with a higher pooled Area Under the Curve (AUC), in turn suggesting better identification of clinically significant prostate cancer. Nonetheless, the study also reveals challenges within the practice of meta-analysis, including variation among study methodologies and the presence of bias. These findings highlight the dual purpose of the research: demonstrating the utility and drawbacks of meta-analysis and validating the Stockholm3 test’s potential as a diagnostic tool. The conclusions drawn emphasize the need for continued research to enhance both meta-analytic methods and the clinical applicability of the Stockholm3 test in broader populations.

The aim of the present systematic review was to investigate the clinical outcomes after the perforation of the maxillary sinus by dental implants, or after maxillary sinus membrane perforation during sinus lift procedure. Twenty-nine publications were included. Failure rates of implants in cases where perforation of sinus floor had happened (11 studies) was generally low, and only one case of transient sinusitis was reported. The estimated failure rate of these implants was 2.1% (SE 1.0%, p = 0.035). There were 1817 implants (73 failures) placed in augmented sinuses in which the sinus membrane was perforated and 5043 implants (274 failures) placed in sinuses with no perforated membrane, from 18 studies. The odds of implant failure difference between the groups were not significant (OR 1.347, p = 0.197). log OR of implant failure between perforated and non-perforated membrane groups did not significantly change with the follow-up time (-0.004/month; p = 0.500). In conclusion, implant failure rate is generally low either for implants penetrating in the floor of the maxillary sinus or implants placed in augmented sinuses in which the sinus membrane was perforated. The prevalence of postoperative infection/sinusitis is low, and it may depend either on the dimensions of the perforation or on the anatomical predisposition.

Deforestation poses a global threat to biodiversity and its capacity to deliver ecosystem services. Yet, the impacts of deforestation on soil biodiversity and its associated ecosystem services remain virtually unknown. We generated a global dataset including 696 paired-site observations to investigate how native forest conversion to other land uses affects soil properties, biodiversity, and functions associated with the delivery of multiple ecosystem services. The conversion of native forests to plantations, grasslands, and croplands resulted in higher bacterial diversity and more homogeneous fungal communities dominated by pathogens and with a lower abundance of symbionts. Such conversions also resulted in significant reductions in carbon storage, nutrient cycling, and soil functional rates related to organic matter decomposition. Responses of the microbial community to deforestation, including bacterial and fungal diversity and fungal guilds, were predominantly regulated by changes in soil pH and total phosphorus. Moreover, we found that soil fungal diversity and functioning in warmer and wetter native forests is especially vulnerable to deforestation. Our work highlights that the loss of native forests to managed ecosystems poses a major global threat to the biodiversity and functioning of soils and their capacity to deliver ecosystem services.

Background Post COVID-19 Condition (PCC), characterized by lingering symptoms post-acute COVID-19, poses clinical challenges, highlighting the need to understand its underlying molecular mechanisms. This meta-analysis aims to shed light on the transcriptomic landscapes and sex-specific molecular dynamics intrinsic to PCC. Methods A systematic review identified three studies suitable for comprehensive meta-analysis, encompassing 135 samples (57 PCC subjects and 78 recovered subjects). We performed meta-analysis on differential gene expression, a gene set enrichment analysis of Reactome pathways, and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). We performed a drug and disease enrichment analysis and also assessed sex-specific differences in expression patterns. Key findings A clear difference was observed in the transcriptomic profiles of PCC subjects, with 530 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) identified. Enrichment analysis revealed that the altered pathways were predominantly implicated in cell cycle processes, immune dysregulation and histone modifications. Antioxidant compounds such as hesperitin were predominantly linked to the hub genes of the DEGs. Sex-specific analyses highlighted disparities in DEGs and altered pathways in male and female PCC patients, revealing a difference in the expression of ribosomal proteins. PCC in men was mostly linked to neuro-cardiovascular disorders, while women exhibited more diverse disorders, with a high index of respiratory conditions. Conclusion Our study reveals the intricate molecular processes underlying PCC, highlighting that the differences in molecular dynamics between males and females could be key to understanding and effectively managing the varied symptomatology of this condition.

[Purpose] This overview of reviews aimed to summarize the prevalence of burnout and the dimensions of burnout (emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and personal accomplishment) in oncology professionals around the world., [Methods] The CINAHL, Embase, PsycINFO, and PubMed databases were searched from inception to September 13, 2023. AMSTAR 2 was used to assess the quality of reviews. The overlap between reviews was calculated., [Results] Twelve reviews were included. Overall, reviews showed that burnout was prevalent in oncologists and oncology nurses. On the other hand, no reviews meta-analyzed the prevalence of burnout in oncology radiation therapists. In addition, the dimensions of burnout, high emotional exhaustion, high depersonalization, and low personal accomplishment were highly prevalent across reviews in oncologists, oncology nurses, and oncology radiation therapists. In oncologists, the Americas (specifically Canada) showed the highest prevalence rates for high emotional exhaustion, whereas high depersonalization and low personal accomplishment were mainly prevalent in Europe and Asia, respectively. In oncology nurses, high emotional exhaustion and high depersonalization were mainly prevalent in Asia, whereas low personal accomplishment was more prevalent in the Americas (specifically Canada). The prevalence of overall levels of burnout was not meta-analyzed by continents., [Conclusion] Some methodological improvements may help to make more robust the findings of this overview (e.g., specific subgroup meta-analyses by oncology specialties), which may help readers reach more precise, direct, and consistent findings.

[Objective] To summarize the evidence on the effectiveness of Hatha or Iyengar yoga exercises on cancer-related fatigue, depression symptoms, and the overall quality of life in adults with cancer., [Methods] A systematic review with meta-analysis was conducted. The CINAHL (via EBSCOhost), Embase, PubMed, and SPORTDiscus (via EBSCOhost) databases were searched from inception to 7th November 2022. Clinical trials evaluating cancer-related fatigue, depression symptoms, and the overall quality of life were included. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool 2. The Template for Intervention Description and Replication (TIDieR) checklist was used to check if the interventions reviewed were described in detail to be implemented in the clinical setting. The Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations approach was used to rate the certainty of evidence. Meta-regressions, sensitivity analyses, and subgroup meta-analyses were conducted to explore sources of heterogeneity., [Results] Eleven studies were included (N = 777 participants). Overall, Hatha, Iyengar, and the combination of both yoga styles did not improve any of the outcomes of interest. In addition, five studies had a high risk of bias, and six studies had some concerns about biases. Weaknesses in reporting modifications during the development of the study were observed (TIDieR item 10). The certainty of evidence ranged from low to very low across the outcomes., [Conclusions] We could not make sound clinical recommendations with the current quality of the findings.

The dataset consists of comprehensive information on litter mass loss, elemental recycling (specifically nitrogen and phosphorus release rates), and associated environmental factors. The data was collected using standardized methods and includes details such as study location coordinates, climatic conditions (temperature and precipitation), ecosystem types (terrestrial and aquatic), study subjects (species identity), litterbag specifics (exclusion method and mesh size), and litter tissue types (woody and non-woody). Missing climatic data were obtained from the WorldClim database. The dataset comprises 1568 sets of pairwise comparisons, with 1060 for plant decomposition, 360 for nitrogen release, and 148 for phosphorus release. This comprehensive dataset serves as a valuable resource for studying litter decomposition, nutrient cycling, and the interplay between environmental factors and decomposition processes.

Mercury (Hg) is a global pollutant known for its significant bioaccumulation and biomagnification capabilities, posing a particular threat to marine environments. Seabirds have been recognized as effective bioindicators of marine pollution, and, among them, penguins present a unique opportunity to serve as a single taxonomic group (Sphenisciformes) for monitoring Hg across distinct marine ecosystems in the Southern Hemisphere. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive systematic review of Hg concentrations, and performed a meta-analysis that took into account the various sources of uncertainty associated with Hg contamination in penguins. Beyond intrinsic species-specific factors shaping Hg levels, our results showed that the penguin community effectively reflects spatial patterns of Hg bioavailability. We identified geographic Hg hotspots in Australia, the Indian Ocean, and Tierra del Fuego, as well as coldspots in Perú and the South Atlantic. Furthermore, specific penguin species, namely the Southern Rockhopper (Eudyptes chrysocome) and Macaroni penguin (Eudyptes chrysolophus), are highlighted as particularly vulnerable to the toxic effects of Hg. Additionally, we identified knowledge gaps in geographic areas such as the Galápagos Islands, South Africa, and the coast of Chile, as well as in species including Fiordland (Eudyptes pachyrhynchus), Snares (Eudyptes robustus), Erect-crested (Eudyptes sclateri), Royal (Eudyptes schlegeli), Yellow-eyed (Megadyptes antipodes), and Galápagos (Spheniscus mendiculus) penguins. Overall, our study contributes to the growing body of literature emphasizing the role of penguins as bioindicators of Hg pollution, but it also highlights areas where further research and data collection are needed for a more comprehensive understanding of Hg contamination in marine ecosystems in the Southern Hemisphere

Purpose: The aim of the study was to analyze the effects of functional or biomechanical bandages, whether elastic or inelastic, in Chronic Ankle Instability (CAI). • Methods: This review used PubMed, WoS, SCOPUS, and CINAHL following PRISMA and registering in Prospero. Main PICOS: (1) CAI; (2) intervention, functional/biomechanical bandages; (3) comparison, taping effect versus placebo/no taping, or another functional taping; (4) outcomes, improvement of CAI functionality (dynamic/static balance, ankle kinematic, perception, agility and motor control, endurance and strength; (5) experimental and preexperimental studies. The meta-analyses considered mean and s.d. of the results per variable; effect size (ES) of each study and for each type of intervention. Homogeneity (Q), heterogeneity (H2 and I2), and 95% CI were calculated. • Results: In total, 28 studies were selected. Significant differences were found for dynamic balance (66.66%) and static balance (87.5%), ankle kinematics (75.00%), perceptions (88.88%), plantar flexor strength (100%), muscle activity (66.6%), endurance (100%), functional performance (100%), and gait (66.6%). The main results of meta analyses (eight studies) are as follows – h/M ratio soleus, ES: 0.080, 95% CI: −5.219–5.379; h/M ratio peroneus, ES: 0.070, 95% CI: −6.151–6.291; posteromedial KT, ES: 0.042 95% CI: −0.514–0.598; posteromedial—overall, ES: −0.006 95% CI: −1.071–0.819; mSEBT-KT, ES: 0.057 95% CI: −0.281–0.395; mSEBT—overall, ES: −0.035 95% CI: −0.190–0.590. • Conclusions: All biomechanical or functional bandages, whether elastic or inelastic, applied in CAI were favorable, highlighting patient perception, dynamic and static balance, kinematics and agility and motor control, for its effectiveness and evidence. Thus, bandages increase ankle functionality. The meta-analyses found no statistical significance. Clinically, soleus muscle activity, h-reflex/M-responses using fibular reposition with rigid tape, and dynamic balance with comb

The adoption of Green Supply Chain Management (GSCM) and its impact on firm's performance is gaining importance in both academic and corporate fields. While past studies found a positive relationship between GSCM and Corporate Environmental Performance (CEP), there is no evidence of either which are the green practices that improve CEP the most or the moderating roles that affect such relationship. In order to provide clarity as to which tools are key in leading to a stronger CEP, this study aims to examine how GSCM relates to CEP, under the effect of several moderating roles. To that end, 166 articles published between 2001 and 2023 were included in our meta-analysis sample. Our central results reveal that the link between the variables is significantly positive, with investment recovery being the practice with the strongest impact. Moreover, it is confirmed that moderators do have an impact in this relationship. Practical implications are relevant for policy makers and upper management that is willing to introduce environmental thinking in their business strategy.

Background: Part of the population over 65 years of age suffer from several pathologies and are therefore polymedicated. In this systematic review and metanalysis, we aimed to determine the efficacy of several strategies developed to improve adherence to pharmacological treatment in polymedicated elderly people. Design: Web Of Science, PubMed and the Cochrane Library were searched until 2 January 2024. In total, 17 of the 1508 articles found evaluated the efficacy of interventions to improve adherence to medication in polymedicated elderly patients. Methodological quality and the risk of bias were rated using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. Open Meta Analyst® software was used to create forest plots of the meta-analysis. Results: In 11 of the 17 studies, an improvement in adherence was observed through the use of different measurement tools and sometimes in combination. The most frequently used strategy was using instructions and counselling, always in combination, in a single strategy used to improve adherence; one involved the use of medication packs and the other patient follow-up. In both cases, the results in improving adherence were positive. Five studies using follow-up interventions via visits and phone calls showed improved adherence on the Morisky Green scale compared to those where usual care was received [OR = 1.900; 95% CI = 1.104–3.270] (p = 0.021). Discussion: There is a high degree of heterogeneity in the studies analyzed, both in the interventions used and in the measurement tools for improving adherence to treatment. Therefore, we cannot make conclusions about the most efficacious strategy to improve medication adherence in polymedicated elderly patients until more evidence of single-intervention strategies is available.

Sketch-based image retrieval (SBIR) utilizes sketches to search for images containing similar objects or scenes. Due to the proliferation of touch-screen devices, sketching has become more accessible and therefore has received increasing attention. Deep learning has emerged as a potential tool for SBIR, allowing models to automatically extract image features and learn from large amounts of data. To the best of our knowledge, there is currently no systematic literature review (SLR) of SBIR with deep learning. Therefore, the aim of this review is to incorporate related works into a systematic study, highlighting the main contributions of individual researchers over the years, with a focus on past, present and future trends. To achieve the purpose of this study, 90 studies from 2016 to June 2023 in 4 databases were collected and analyzed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) framework. The specific models, datasets, evaluation metrics, and applications of deep learning in SBIR are discussed in detail. This study found that Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) and Generative Adversarial Networks (GAN) are the most widely used deep learning methods for SBIR. A commonly used dataset is Sketchy, especially in the latest Zero-shot sketch-based image retrieval (ZS-SBIR) task. The results show that Mean Average Precision (mAP) is the most commonly used metric for quantitative evaluation of SBIR. Finally, we provide some future directions and guidance for researchers based on the results of this review. © 2013 IEEE.

Context: Former literature revealed team performance is contingent on personality composition and interactive effects of team climate. While decades of research on personality prevails in software engineering, team climate remains sparsely researched. Objective: In agile software development, individuals and interactions are key sources of agility. This study replicates a previous study and analyzes the relationship between five-factor-model personality traits and team climate dimensions among agile teams in a telecom company. Method: A Web-based survey was replicated twice, first with 75 professionals from 12 teams in Sweden, followed by 46 professionals from seven teams in India. The data was used for correlation, regression analyses, and meta-analysis. Results: We observed significant negative correlations between neuroticism and all the team climate dimensions. Meta-analysis identified a significant medium-sized negative effect between neuroticism and participative safety. Regression analysis showed personality traits accounted for around 10 % of the variance in team climate dimensions. Conclusions: High neuroticism is not conducive to team climate as emotionally unstable members could impair team cohesion by being reactive and susceptible to stress. Managers assembling Scrum teams ought to mitigate higher neuroticism by counterbalancing it with an elevation of corresponding negatively correlated personality variables and providing support/training towards increasing the aforementioned variables. © 2023

Suicide remains the second most common cause of death in young people aged 10–24 years and is a growing concern globally. The literature reports a vast number of factors that can predispose an adolescent to suicidality at an individual, relational, community, or societal level. There is limited high-level research identifying and understanding these risk and protective factors of adolescent suicidality. The present study used an umbrella review and meta-analysis to synthesize evidence from the review literature in the past 20 years on risk and protective factors of self-harm and suicidality (behavior and ideation) in adolescents. The umbrella review included 33 quantitative reviews with 1149 individual studies on suicidality and self-harm. Based on the data synthesis, it compared the public health impact of exposure on the population of the identified exposure. Bullying victimization was the most attributed environmental exposure for suicidality. The other identified significant school and individual factors were sleeping disturbance, school absenteeism, and exposure to antidepressants. Several significant vulnerable young populations were identified with significantly higher prevalence of suicidality, including lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (or questioning) youth and those with mental health disorders, problem behaviors, previous suicidality, self-harm, and gender (female). A person-centered approach emphasizing connectedness and bully-free school environments should be a priority focus for schools, health professionals, and public health policymakers.

Aims: To evaluate relationships between diet quality and cardiovascular outcomes. Methods: Six databases were searched for studies published between January 2007 and October 2021. Eligible studies included cohort studies that assessed the relationship between a priori diet quality and cardiovascular disease mortality and morbidity in adults. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Checklist was used to assess the risk of bias. Study characteristics and outcomes were extracted from eligible studies using standardised processes. Data were summarised using risk ratios for cardiovascular disease incidence and mortality with difference compared for highest versus lowest diet quality synthesised in meta-analyses using a random effects model. Results: Of the 4780 studies identified, 159 studies (n = 6 272 676 adults) were included. Meta-analyses identified a significantly lower cardiovascular disease incidence (n = 42 studies, relative risk 0.83, 95% CI 0.82–0.84, p < 0.001) and mortality risk (n = 49 studies, relative risk 0.83, 95% CI 0.82–0.84, p < 0.001) among those with highest versus lowest diet quality. In sensitivity analyses of a high number of pooled studies (≥13 studies) the Mediterranean style diet patterns and adherence to the heart healthy diet guidelines were significantly associated with a risk reduction of 15% and 14% for cardiovascular disease incidence and 17% and 20% for cardiovascular disease mortality respectively (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Higher diet quality is associated with lower incidence and risk of mortality for cardiovascular disease however, significant study heterogeneity was identified for these relationships.

Leptospirosis is a neglected zoonotic disease transmitted by contact with the urine of animals infected with pathogenic species of the bacteria Leptospira or by contact with environments contaminated with the bacteria. Domestic dogs and cats may act as reservoirs or as sentinels of environmental contamination with leptospires, posing a public health concern. There is a great diversity of leptospires, and one common way to classify them is into serogroups that provide some information on the host species they are associated with. The aims of this study were: (1) to quantitatively summarize the overall prevalence and serogroup-specific prevalence of antibodies against pathogenic leptospires in asymptomatic dogs and cats and (2) to identify environmental and host characteristics that may affect the prevalence. Three electronic databases and the reference lists of eligible articles were screened, for epidemiological studies conducted between the years 2012–2022. We estimated overall and serogroup-specific prevalence using three-level meta-analysis models and assessed potential sources of heterogeneity by moderator analysis and meta-regression. Eighty-four studies met the inclusion criteria (dog studies 66.7%, cat studies 26.2%, and both species 7.1%). There were significant differences between dogs and cats in the overall prevalence model (P < 0.001), but not in the serogroup-specific model (P>0.05). In dogs, the prevalence of Leptospira interrogans serogroup Canicola was significantly higher than the other pathogenic serogroups (P < 0.001), while in cats there were no significant differences among serogroups (P = 0.373). Moderator analysis showed that the prevalence of L. kirschneri serogroup Grippotyphosa was significantly higher in stray/sheltered dogs than in domiciled dogs (P = 0.028). These results suggest that pathogenic serogroups associated with small mammals are circulating among asymptomatic pets and should be taken into account in the transmission cycle of l

According to Vygotsky’s cultural-historical activity theory, pretend play can be an important context for the development of children’s social competence. The aim of this meta-analysis was to synthesize the current evidence about the relation between pretend play and social competence in early childhood (age 3–8 years). A systematic literature search of PsycINFO, ERIC, and Web of Science identified a total of 34 relevant empirical studies. The included studies were systematically coded and categorized for pretend play and social competence. Overall, the findings of this meta-analysis reveal a positive relation between pretend play and social competence, irrespective of how the latter was measured. The relation between pretend play and social competence was slightly negatively impacted by children’s age, suggesting that the relation weakens as children get older. Studies measuring the amount of pretend play found lower correlations between pretend play and social competence than studies measuring the quality of pretend play. Most included studies adopted a cross-sectional design, so claims about causal effects could not be supported. Future research is required to determine the direction of causality and potential mechanisms that may explain the relation between pretend play and social competence.

This thesis explores state-of-the-art and novel methods of research synthesis to investigate psychotherapy and self-help interventions for common mental health disorders. By demonstrating a range of synthesis techniques, the thesis provides a comprehensive examination of the evidence currently available in the field. The thesis progresses from conventional meta-analyses to multiverse meta-analyses and meta-meta analyses to offer a broader understanding of the state of the research field. Through this systematic approach, the thesis aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of the factors influencing efficacy estimates of psychotherapy and self-help interventions, ultimately supporting evidence-based decision-making in clinical practice and informing future research directions. Chapter 1 provides a general overview of the concepts of this thesis, namely mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and irritable bowel syndrome; research synthesis techniques like meta-analyses, multiverse meta-analyses, and umbrella reviews; and psychological interventions including psychotherapy, internet-based and smartphone-based interventions. Chapter 2 uses conventional meta-analytic methods to investigate whether self-help interventions are effective in reducing symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. The results suggest that self-help interventions, particularly online-based ones, are effective in reducing symptom severity and improving the quality of life for patients. Chapters 3 and 4 explore the effectiveness of psychotherapy for depression, and Chapter 5 investigates whether digital psychological therapies are effective, using a multiverse meta-analysis approach. This novel approach conducts extensive sensitivity analyses to investigate the robustness of meta-analytical findings by analyzing whether most meta-analytic strategies yield similar results. The results suggest that these therapies are all clinically meaningful. However, different data-analytical decisions

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) play a crucial role in cancer development and progression. This study aimed to identify potential circRNA biomarkers for osteosarcoma. Articles published from January 2010 to September 2023 were searched across eight databases to compare circRNA expression profiles in osteosarcoma and control samples (human, animal and cell lines). Meta-analysis was conducted under a random effects model. Subgroup analysis of circRNAs in different samples and tissues was performed. Diagnostic value was evaluated using receiver operator characteristic curves. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis explored functions of circRNA host genes. A circRNA-miRNA-mRNA axis depicted the regulatory mechanism in osteosarcoma. Among 1356 circRNAs with differential expression were identified across 226 original studies, only 74 were reported in at least three published sub-studies. Meta-analysis identified 58 dysregulated circRNAs (52 upregulated and 6 downregulated). Eleven circRNAs consistently showed dysregulation in tissues and cell lines, with hsa_circ_0005721 showing potential as a circulating biomarker in osteosarcoma. Sensitivity analysis demonstrated 97 % consistency. The overall area under the curve was 0.87 (95 % CI, 0.83–0.89). GO and KEGG enrichment analyses revealed host gene involvement in cancer. The circRNA-miRNA-mRNA axis revealed the regulatory axis and interactions within osteosarcoma specifically. This study demonstrates circRNAs as potential diagnostic biomarkers for osteosarcoma. Consistently reported dysregulated circRNAs are potential biomarkers in osteosarcoma pathogenesis, with hsa_circ_0005721 as a potential circulating biomarker for diagnosis and treatment.

The response of groundwater recharge to climate change needs to be understood to enable sustainable management of groundwater systems today and in the future, yet observations of recharge over long-enough time periods to reveal responses to climate trends are scarce. Here we present a meta-analysis of 60 years of recharge studies over the Gnangara Groundwater System of South-West Western Australia, covering a period of sustained drying consistent with climate change projections. The recharge process in the area is defined by a wet winter during which rain saturates a deep, highly permeable soil profile with very low water storage capacity. Measurements of recharge since the 1960s show near-linear reductions in potential recharge of 50%, in response to a 20% reduction in rainfall. For the best-represented land cover in the dataset (Banksia woodland), the reduction in potential recharge was closer to 70%. A simple analytical model suggests that reductions in the duration of winter, coupled with a decreased frequency of winter storms, were most responsible for these declines, and reveals the potential for nonlinear relationships between the recharge fraction (recharge/precipitation) and climatic variables such as mean storm frequency, mean storm depth, and the length of the winter wet season. Overall, results suggest that recharge declines in drying Mediterranean groundwater systems are likely to outstrip the declines in rainfall, and that leveraging existing observation networks worldwide to characterise recharge responses to changing climate is needed to overcome existing interpretation challenges created by inconsistent sites, methods and durations of recharge estimation.

Collaborative and network governance assume that network management and trust matter for network outcomes. We test this assumption by conducting a meta-analysis of public administration studies investigating the correlation between network management and network outcomes (50 effect sizes), and trust and network outcomes (28 effect sizes). While both matter for achieving network outcomes across countries, trust matters most. Trust is particularly important for achieving process outcomes and multiple network management strategies combined are more effective than separate single strategies. A research agenda centred on complex modelling, comparative research and using mixed, multisource, experimental and longitudinal data is stipulated in conclusion., Information and Communication Technology

Two neurodevelopmental conditions, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), have been associated with executive function (EF) impairments but the specificity of their impairments is still controversial. The present meta-analysis aimed to identify the differences in EF profiles of ASD, ADHD, and ASD+ADHD in relation to a control group of individuals with typical development (TD) and to understand whether the EF performance could change depending upon the type of measure used to assess EF (performance tests vs. questionnaires). Results from 36 eligible studies revealed that ADHD and ASD showed more difficulties than the TD group in tests and, particularly, in questionnaires. No significant differences in the EF profile emerged between ASD and ADHD when assessed through neuropsychological tests (d = 0.02), while significant differences emerged when assessed through questionnaires, with ADHD having higher ratings than ASD (d = -0.34). EF questionnaires and neuropsychological tests may catch two different constructs of EF, with the former being more predictive of everyday life EF impairments. The comparison between the double diagnosis group (ADHD+ASD) and the clinical groups pointed out that the former has a more similar EF profile to the ADHD-alone one and that it shows more difficulties than ASD-alone.

Objectives: To summarize current evidence of high-dose influenza vaccine (HD-IV) vs standard-dose (SD-IV) regarding severe clinical outcomes. Methods: A prespecified meta-analysis was conducted to assess relative vaccine effectiveness (rVE) of HD-IV vs SD-IV in reducing the rates of (1) pneumonia and influenza (P&I) hospitalization, (2) all hospitalizations, and (3) all-cause death in adults ≥ 65 years in randomized controlled trials. Pooled effect sizes were estimated using fixed-effects models with the inverse variance method. Results: Five randomized trials were included encompassing 105,685 individuals. HD-IV vs SD-IV reduced P&I hospitalizations (rVE: 23.5 %, [95 %CI: 12.3 to 33.2]). HD-IV vs SD-IV also reduced rate of all-cause hospitalizations (rVE: 7.3 %, [95 %CI: 4.5 to 10.0]). No significant differences were observed in death rates (rVE = 1.6 % ([95 %CI: −2.0 to 5.0]) in HD-IV vs SD-IV. Sensitivity analyses omitting trials with participants sharing the same comorbidity, trials with ≥ 100 events, and random-effects models provided comparable estimates for all outcomes. Conclusions: HD-IV reduced the incidence of P&I and all-cause hospitalization vs SD-IV in adults ≥ 65 years in randomized trials, through no significant difference was observed in all-cause death rates. These findings, supported by evidence from several randomized studies, can benefit from replication in a fully powered, individually randomized trial.

Low physical activity and high sedentary behaviour have been clearly linked with colorectal cancer development, yet data on their potential role in colorectal cancer survival is limited. Better characterisation of these relationships is needed for the development of post-diagnosis physical activity and sedentary behaviour guidance for colorectal cancer survivors. We searched PubMed and Embase through 28 February 2022 for studies assessing post-diagnosis physical activity, and/or sedentary behaviour in relation to all-cause and cause-specific mortality and recurrence after colorectal cancer diagnosis. Total and recreational physical activity were assessed overall and by frequency, duration, intensity, and volume using categorical, linear, and non-linear dose–response random-effects meta-analyses. The Global Cancer Update Programme (CUP Global) independent Expert Committee on Cancer Survivorship and Expert Panel interpreted and graded the likelihood of causality. We identified 16 observational studies on 82,220 non-overlapping patients from six countries. Physical activity was consistently inversely associated with colorectal cancer morbidity and mortality outcomes, with 13%–60% estimated reductions in risk. Sedentary behaviour was positively associated with all-cause mortality. The evidence had methodological limitations including potential confounding, selection bias and reverse causation, coupled with a limited number of studies for most associations. The CUP Global Expert panel concluded limited-suggestive evidence for recreational physical activity with all-cause mortality and cancer recurrence. Total physical activity and its specific domains and dimensions, and sedentary behaviour were all graded as limited-no conclusion for all outcomes. Future research should focus on randomised trials, while observational studies should obtain objective and repeated physical activity measures and better adjustment for confounders., Low physical activity and high sedentary behaviour have been clearly linked with colorectal cancer development, yet data on their potential role in colorectal cancer survival is limited. Better characterisation of these relationships is needed for the development of post-diagnosis physical activity and sedentary behaviour guidance for colorectal cancer survivors. We searched PubMed and Embase through 28 February 2022 for studies assessing post-diagnosis physical activity, and/or sedentary behaviour in relation to all-cause and cause-specific mortality and recurrence after colorectal cancer diagnosis. Total and recreational physical activity were assessed overall and by frequency, duration, intensity, and volume using categorical, linear, and non-linear dose–response random-effects meta-analyses. The Global Cancer Update Programme (CUP Global) independent Expert Committee on Cancer Survivorship and Expert Panel interpreted and graded the likelihood of causality. We identified 16 observational studies on 82,220 non-overlapping patients from six countries. Physical activity was consistently inversely associated with colorectal cancer morbidity and mortality outcomes, with 13%–60% estimated reductions in risk. Sedentary behaviour was positively associated with all-cause mortality. The evidence had methodological limitations including potential confounding, selection bias and reverse causation, coupled with a limited number of studies for most associations. The CUP Global Expert panel concluded limited-suggestive evidence for recreational physical activity with all-cause mortality and cancer recurrence. Total physical activity and its specific domains and dimensions, and sedentary behaviour were all graded as limited-no conclusion for all outcomes. Future research should focus on randomised trials, while observational studies should obtain objective and repeated physical activity measures and better adjustment for confounders.