Search

Abstract Background Despite the promising results of both MitraClip and PASCAL systems for the treatment of mitral regurgitation (MR), there is limited data on the comparison of both systems regarding their safety and efficacy. We aim to compare both systems for MR. Materials and methods Five databases were searched until October 2024. Original studies were only included and critically appraised using an adapted version of the Newcastle–Ottawa scale for observational cohort studies and the Cochrane risk of bias tool for randomized controlled trials. The risk ratio (RR) and mean difference (MD) with their corresponding 95% confidence interval (95% CI). Results From the database search, we identified 197 studies, of which eight studies comprising 1,612 patients who underwent transcatheter edge-to-edge repair with either MitraClip or PASCAL were included in this meta-analysis. The statistical analysis revealed no significant difference between the two devices in achieving a two-grade reduction in MR severity (RR = 0.95; 95% CI: [0.86, 1.04]; p = 0.28), one-grade reduction (RR = 1.17; 95% CI: [0.92, 1.49]; p = 0.19), or in cases with no improvement (RR = 1.23; 95% CI: [0.79, 1.90]; p = 0.36). Additionally, there were no significant differences between PASCAL and MitraClip regarding procedure time, procedural success, reinterventions, or all-cause mortality. However, PASCAL trended towards better residual MR reduction, although this was accompanied by moderate heterogeneity. Both devices demonstrated comparable safety profiles and were effective in reducing MR and improving cardiac function. Conclusion MitraClip and PASCAL devices showed comparable safety profiles and procedural success rates. However, the analysis did not reveal a statistically significant difference between the two devices in reducing the severity of MR.

Abstract Background We aimed at investigating the efficacies of probiotics in alleviating the core and associated symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Methods Randomized placebo-controlled trials were identified from major electronic databases from inception to Nov 2023. The outcomes of interests including improvements in the total and associated symptoms of ASD were quantitatively expressed as effect size (ES) based on standardized mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence interval (CI). Results Ten studies with 522 participants (mean age = 8.11) were included in this meta-analysis. The primary results revealed significant improvement in total symptoms in the probiotics group compared with the controls (SMD = − 0.19, p = 0.03, ten studies, n = 522) but not the core symptoms (i.e., repetitive restricted behaviors, As affiliations 3 and 5 are same, we have deleted the duplicate affiliations and renumbered accordingly. Please check and confirm.problems with social behaviors/communication). Subgroup analyses demonstrated improvement in total symptoms in probiotics users relative to their controls only in studies using multiple-strain probiotics (SMD = − 0.26, p = 0.03, five studies, n = 288) but not studies using single-strain regimens. Secondary results showed improvement in adaptation (SMD = 0.37, p = 0.03, three studies, n = 139) and an improvement trend in anxiety symptoms in the probiotics group compared with controls (SMD = − 0.29, 95% CI − 0.60 to 0.02, p = 0.07, three studies, n = 163) but failed to demonstrate greater improvement in the former regarding symptoms of irritability/aggression, hyperactivity/impulsivity, inattention, and parental stress. Conclusions Our study supported probiotics use against the overall behavioral symptoms of ASD, mainly in individuals receiving multiple-strain probiotics as supplements. However, our results showed that probiotics use was only associated with improvement in adaptation and perhaps anxiety, but not core symptoms, highlighting the impact of adaptation on quality of life rather than just the core symptoms. Nevertheless, the limited number of included trials warrants further large-scale clinical investigations.

Background: We aimed at investigating the efficacies of probiotics in alleviating the core and associated symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Methods: Randomized placebo-controlled trials were identified from major electronic databases from inception to Nov 2023. The outcomes of interests including improvements in the total and associated symptoms of ASD were quantitatively expressed as effect size (ES) based on standardized mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence interval (CI). Results: Ten studies with 522 participants (mean age = 8.11) were included in this meta-analysis. The primary results revealed significant improvement in total symptoms in the probiotics group compared with the controls (SMD = − 0.19, p = 0.03, ten studies, n = 522) but not the core symptoms (i.e., repetitive restricted behaviors, As affiliations 3 and 5 are same, we have deleted the duplicate affiliations and renumbered accordingly. Please check and confirm.problems with social behaviors/communication). Subgroup analyses demonstrated improvement in total symptoms in probiotics users relative to their controls only in studies using multiple-strain probiotics (SMD = − 0.26, p = 0.03, five studies, n = 288) but not studies using single-strain regimens. Secondary results showed improvement in adaptation (SMD = 0.37, p = 0.03, three studies, n = 139) and an improvement trend in anxiety symptoms in the probiotics group compared with controls (SMD = − 0.29, 95% CI − 0.60 to 0.02, p = 0.07, three studies, n = 163) but failed to demonstrate greater improvement in the former regarding symptoms of irritability/aggression, hyperactivity/impulsivity, inattention, and parental stress. Conclusions: Our study supported probiotics use against the overall behavioral symptoms of ASD, mainly in individuals receiving multiple-strain probiotics as supplements. However, our results showed that probiotics use was only associated with improvement in adaptation and perhaps anxiety, but not core symptoms, highlighting the impact of adaptation on quality of life rather than just the core symptoms. Nevertheless, the limited number of included trials warrants further large-scale clinical investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: Post-tuberculosis (TB) sequelae present a significant challenge in the management of TB survivors, often leading to persistent health issues even after successful treatment. Identifying risk factors associated with post-TB sequelae is important for improving outcomes and quality of life of TB survivors. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to identify risk factors associated with long-term physical sequelae among TB survivors. Methods: We systematically searched Medline, Embase, PROQUEST, and Scopus for studies on long-term physical sequelae among TB survivors up to December 12, 2023. The primary outcome of interest was to quantify risk factors of long-term physical sequelae (i.e., respiratory, hepatic, hearing, neurological, visual, renal, and musculoskeletal sequelae). We included all forms of TB patients who experienced long-term physical sequelae. We used narrative synthesis for risk factors reported once and random-effect meta-analysis for primary outcomes with two or more studies. Findings were presented with odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Publication bias was assessed using funnel plots and Egger regression, and heterogeneity was examined with a Galbraith radial plot. The protocol was registered on Prospero (CRD42021250909). Findings: A total of 73 articles from 28 countries representing 31,553 TB-treated patients were included in the narrative synthesis, with 64 of these studies included in the meta-analysis. Risk factors associated with post-TB lung sequelae include older age (OR = 1.62, 95% CI: 1.07–2.47), previous TB treatment history (OR = 3.43, 95% CI: 2.37–4.97), smoking (OR = 1.41, 95% CI: 1.09–1.83), alcohol consumption (OR = 1.84, 95% CI: 1.04–3.25), smear-positive pulmonary TB diagnosis (OR = 3.11, 95% CI: 1.77–6.44), and the presence of radiographic evidence of pulmonary lesions at the commencement of treatment (OR = 2.04, 95% CI: 1.07–3.87). Risk factors associated with post-TB liver injury included pre-existing hepatitis (OR = 2.41, 95% CI: 1.16–6.08), previous TB treatment (OR = 2.64, 95% CI: 1.22–6.67), hypo-albuminemia (OR = 2.10, 95% CI: 1.53–2.88), HIV co-infection (OR = 2.72, 95% CI: 1.66–4.46), and CD4 count

Abstract Background About 20–40% of people with Heart failure (HF) suffer from some depression, which is 4–5% greater than the overall population. This depression can lead to undesirable outcomes, including elevated mortality rate and frequent hospitalization. Purpose The current study aims to evaluate the impact of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) on self-care and the symptoms of depression and anxiety in HF patients. Methods We searched PubMed, Web of Science (WOS), Scopus, and Cochrane Library till 15 October 2022. All relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included. The data were extracted and pooled using Review Manager software (RevMan 5.4). Continuous data were pooled as mean difference and 95% confidence interval (CI). Results Our search retrieved 1146 records, and 7 studies (611 patients) were finally included. We assessed the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) as the primary outcome of the study. Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HRSD-17), Change in Beck Anxiety Inventory, Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (KCCQ), and Self-Care of Heart Failure Index (SCHFI) were also assessed as secondary outcomes. With CBT, BDI-II showed a significant reduction after 4 to 6 months follow-up (MD = -4.87, 95% CI: [-8.06; -1.69], P = 0.003) as well as 8 to 9 months follow-up (MD = -5.71, 95% CI: [-8.95; -2.46], P = 0.0006). But no significant difference was shown with 3 months follow-up (M.D=-4.34; 95%CI: [-10.70; 2.03], P = 0.18). Conclusions CBT has long-term (4–9 months) significant favorable outcomes decreasing anxiety and depression compared to non-CBT groups. No significant short-term (less than 3 months) impact on HF patients’ self-care, depression, or anxiety were shown.

Background: About 20–40% of people with Heart failure (HF) suffer from some depression, which is 4–5% greater than the overall population. This depression can lead to undesirable outcomes, including elevated mortality rate and frequent hospitalization. Purpose: The current study aims to evaluate the impact of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) on self-care and the symptoms of depression and anxiety in HF patients. Methods: We searched PubMed, Web of Science (WOS), Scopus, and Cochrane Library till 15 October 2022. All relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included. The data were extracted and pooled using Review Manager software (RevMan 5.4). Continuous data were pooled as mean difference and 95% confidence interval (CI). Results: Our search retrieved 1146 records, and 7 studies (611 patients) were finally included. We assessed the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) as the primary outcome of the study. Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HRSD-17), Change in Beck Anxiety Inventory, Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (KCCQ), and Self-Care of Heart Failure Index (SCHFI) were also assessed as secondary outcomes. With CBT, BDI-II showed a significant reduction after 4 to 6 months follow-up (MD = -4.87, 95% CI: [-8.06; -1.69], P = 0.003) as well as 8 to 9 months follow-up (MD = -5.71, 95% CI: [-8.95; -2.46], P = 0.0006). But no significant difference was shown with 3 months follow-up (M.D=-4.34; 95%CI: [-10.70; 2.03], P = 0.18). Conclusions: CBT has long-term (4–9 months) significant favorable outcomes decreasing anxiety and depression compared to non-CBT groups. No significant short-term (less than 3 months) impact on HF patients' self-care, depression, or anxiety were shown. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is clinically aggressive breast cancer with a poor prognosis. Approximately 20% of TNBC has been found to express programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1), making it a potential therapeutic target. As a PD-L1 inhibitor, atezolizumab is a recently approved immunotherapeutic drug for TNBC, this meta-analysis (MA) was aimed to review the randomized controlled trial studies (RCTs) of combined atezolizumab and nab-paclitaxel in the treatment of TNBC and synthesize the evidence-based results on its effectiveness and safety. Method We searched PubMed, Embase, EBSCOhost and ClinicalTrials.gov for the eligible RCTs which compared the efficacy and safety of combined atezolizumab and nab-paclitaxel with nab-paclitaxel alone. The outcomes analyzed included overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), objective response rate (ORR) and treatment-related adverse effects (AEs). Results A total of six RCTs were included in this MA. For efficacy, although OS was not significantly prolonged with combined atezolizumab and nab-paclitaxel (HR 0.90, 95% CI [0.79, 1.01], p=0.08), this combination therapy significantly improved PFS (HR 0.72, 95% CI [0.59, 0.87], p=0.0006) and ORR (RR 1.25, 95% CI [0.79, 1.01] p

Background: Both men and women can have a wide range of physical, emotional, and sexual issues as a result of diabetes. One of them is sexual dysfunction, which has an effect on marital relationships as well as the effectiveness of therapy and can develop into a serious social and psychological condition. As a result, the purpose of this study was to identify the global prevalence of sexual dysfunction among diabetic patients. Methods: Science Direct, Scopus, Google Scholar, and PubMed were all searched for information. Data were extracted using Microsoft Excel (v. 14), STATA statistical software, and STATA. Publication bias was investigated by a forest plot, rank test, and Egger's regression test. To detect heterogeneity, I2 was calculated and an overall estimated analysis was performed. Subgroup analysis was done by study region and sample size. The pooled odds ratio was also computed. Results: The study was able to include 15 of the 654 publications that were evaluated since they met the criteria. 67,040 people participated in the survey in all. The pooled global prevalence of sexual dysfunction among diabetic patients was 61.4% (95% CI: 51.80, 70.99), I2 = 71.6%. The frequency of sexual dysfunction was highest in the European region (66.05%). For males, the prevalence of sexual dysfunction was 65.91%, while for females, it was 58.81%. Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus were more likely (71.03%) to experience sexual dysfunction. Conclusion: Finally, sexual dysfunction was fairly common all across the world. There were variations in the prevalence of sexual dysfunction depending on the sex, type of diabetes, and location of the study participant. Our findings imply that screening and appropriate treatment are required for diabetes persons exhibiting sexual dysfunction.

BackgroundInconsistent relationships have been shown between cigarette smoking and hypospadias in offspring. The purpose of this study was to summarize epidemiological evidence to evaluate the relationship between parental smoking and the risk of hypospadias.MethodsUp until October 2022, PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library were systematically searched for qualified research. The summary RRs and 95% CIs were calculated using either a fixed-effects or a random-effects model. There were subgroup analyses undertaken to identify potential sources of heterogeneity.Results44 studies with 16,637,830 participants were included in our meta-analysis. Overall, maternal active smoking [risk ratio (RR) = 0.94; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.90–0.99; P

Background: Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is clinically aggressive breast cancer with a poor prognosis. Approximately 20% of TNBC has been found to express programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1), making it a potential therapeutic target. As a PD-L1 inhibitor, atezolizumab is a recently approved immunotherapeutic drug for TNBC, this meta-analysis (MA) was aimed to review the randomized controlled trial studies (RCTs) of combined atezolizumab and nab-paclitaxel in the treatment of TNBC and synthesize the evidence-based results on its effectiveness and safety.Method: We searched PubMed, Embase, EBSCOhost and ClinicalTrials.gov for the eligible RCTs which compared the efficacy and safety of combined atezolizumab and nab-paclitaxel with nab-paclitaxel alone. The outcomes analyzed included overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), objective response rate (ORR) and treatment-related adverse effects (AEs).Results: A total of six RCTs were included in this MA. For efficacy, although OS was not significantly prolonged with combined atezolizumab and nab-paclitaxel (HR 0.90, 95% CI [0.79, 1.01], p=0.08), this combination therapy significantly improved PFS (HR 0.72, 95% CI [0.59, 0.87], p=0.0006) and ORR (RR 1.25, 95% CI [0.79, 1.01] p<0.00001). For safety, any AEs, haematological, gastrointestinal, and liver AEs showed no statistically significant differences between the atezolizumab and nab-paclitaxel combination group and nab-paclitaxel alone group. However, serious AEs, high grade, dermatological, pulmonary, endocrine, and neurological AEs were significantly lower with nab-paclitaxel alone compared to atezolizumab and nab-paclitaxel combined (p-value range from <0.00001 to 0,02).Conclusion: Atezolizumab combined with nab-paclitaxel was associated with improved outcomes in the treatment of TNBC; however, this combination resulted in more toxicity compared to nab-paclitaxel alone. While nab-paclitaxel alone produced chemotherapy-related AEs, the combination of atezolizumab with nab-paclitaxel produced AEs, especially immune-related AEs such as haematological, pulmonary, endocrine, and neurological AEs.Trial Registration: This research work of systematic review has been registered on PROSPERO (Registration number: CRD42022297952). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Toxoplasmosis is caused by the protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii , a food- and water-borne zoonotic protozoan parasite that is able to infect almost all warm-blooded vertebrates. It has a major effect on public health, particularly in underdeveloped nations. Immune-competent individuals typically exhibit no symptoms or experience a mild influenza-like sickness, while there is a possibility of severe manifestation and fatal or high-risk for life-threatening diseases in immunocompromised people like pregnant women and HIV/AIDS patients and lead to severe pathological effects on the fetus. We conducted a systematic search of databases (PubMed, Google Scholar, Science Direct, EMBASE, and Scopus) using the PRISMA criteria. We used specific keywords such as Toxoplasma gondii, Toxoplasmosis, pregnant women, prevalence, HIV/AIDS, and worldwide studies published from 2018 to 2022. We use Stata (version 14) software to estimate the pooled prevalence and heterogeneity of toxoplasmosis in pregnant women and HIV-infected people using a random-effects model and the Cochran's Q-test, respectively. The Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Instrument and Egger's regression asymmetry test were used to assess study quality and publication bias, respectively, while the single study omission analysis was used to test the robustness of a pooled estimate. We included and analyzed a total of 12,887 individuals in this review. The pooled prevalence of T. gondii in this review was 40% (95% CI = 0.31–0.50). The sub-group analysis revealed that the evaluation included 11,967 pregnant women. In pregnant women, the pooled sero-prevalence was 40% (95% CI = 0.31–0.50). In pregnant women and HIV/AIDS patients, 920 individuals were evaluated, and the pooled sero-prevalence was 41% (95% CI = 0.20–0.61). This review identified an overall sero-prevalence of Toxoplasma infection of 40% among pregnant women and HIV/AIDS. The expansion of prevention and control strategies, with a primary focus on enhancing educational initiatives, is necessary to avoid reactivation and stop the spread of infection, so investigative sero-prevalence is important work among pregnant women and HIV patients. In order to achieve a comprehensive explanation of the disease condition and reach this goal, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis in Worldwide for future use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Tuberculosis is a major public health problem caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, occurring predominantly in population with low socioeconomic status. It is the second most common cause of death from infectious diseases. Tuberculosis becomes a double burden among anemic patients. Anemia increases an individual’s susceptibility to infectious diseases including tuberculosis by reducing the immunity level. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine whether anemia is a risk factor for tuberculosis. Method Relevant published articles were searched in electronic databases like PubMed, Google Scholar, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library using the following MeSH terms: risk factor, predictors, tuberculosis, TB, Anaemia, Anemia, hemoglobin, Hgb, and Hb. Articles written in the English, observational studies conducted on the incidence/prevalence of tuberculosis among anemic patients, or papers examined anemia as risk factors for tuberculosis were included. From those studies meeting eligibility criteria, the first author’s name, publication year, study area, sample size and age of participants, study design, and effect measure of anemia for tuberculosis were extracted. The data were entered using Microsoft Excel and exported to Stata version 11 for analysis. The random-effects model was applied to estimate the pooled OR and HR, and 95% CI. The sources of heterogeneity were tested by Cochrane I-squared statistics. The publication bias was assessed using Egger’s test statistics. Results A total of 17 articles with a 215,294 study participants were included in the analysis. The odd of tuberculosis among anemic patients was 3.56 (95% CI 2.53–5.01) times higher than non-anemic patients. The cohort studies showed that the HR of tuberculosis was 2.01 (95% CI 1.70–2.37) times higher among anemic patients than non-anemic patients. The hazard of tuberculosis also increased with anemia severity (HR 1.37 (95% CI 0.92–2.05), 2.08 (95% CI 1.14–3.79), and 2.66 (95% CI 1.71–4.13) for mild, moderate, and severe anemia, respectively). Conclusion According to the current systematic review and meta-analysis, we can conclude that anemia was a risk factor for tuberculosis. Therefore, anemia screening, early diagnose, and treatment should be provoked in the community to reduce the burden of tuberculosis.

Abstract Background Immunization is the process by which a person is made immune or resistant to an infectious disease, typically by the administration of vaccine. Vaccination coverage for other single vaccines ranged from 49.1% for PCV to 69.2% for BCG vaccine. The vaccination coverage for basic vaccinations was 39.7% in Ethiopia. There have been epidemiological studies available on immunization in Ethiopia. Yet, these studies revealed a wide variation over time and across geographical areas. This systematic review and Meta-analysis aim to estimate the overall immunization coverage among 12–23 months children in Ethiopia. Methods Cross-sectional studies that reported on immunization coverage from 2003 to August 2019 were systematically searched. Searches were conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar, Cochrane library, and gray literature. Information was extracted using a standardized form of Joanna Briggs Institute. The search was updated 20 Jan 2020 to decrease time-lag bias. The quality of studies assessed using Joanna Briggs Institute cross-sectional study quality assessment criteria. I-squared statistics applied to check the heterogeneity of studies. A funnel plot, Begg’s test, and Egger’s regression test was used to check for publication bias. Results Out of 206 studies, 30 studies with 21,672 children with mothers were included in the Meta-analysis. The pooled full immunization coverage using the random-effect model in Ethiopia was 58.92% (95% CI: 51.26–66.58%). The trend of immunization coverage was improved from time to time, but there were great disparities among different regions. Amhara region had the highest pooled fully immunized coverage, 72.48 (95%CI: 62.81–82.16). The I2 statistics was I2 = 99.4% (p = 0.0001). A subgroup meta-analysis showed that region and study years were not the sources of heterogeneity. Conclusion This review showed that full immunization coverage in Ethiopia was 58.92% (95% CI: 51.26–66.58%). The study suggests that the child routine immunization program needs to discuss this low immunization coverage and the current practice needs revision.

There is a lack of evidence that directly shows the best antihypertensive treatment options for post partum management of the hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. Our objective was to analyze the safest and most effective antihypertensive drugs post partum for patients with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. PubMed, Cochrane, and MEDLINE were searched to find relevant articles published from inception to Feb 2024. We included randomized control trials, in English, featuring a population of postnatal women with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy or postpartum women with de novo hypertension with a follow-up of up to 6 months in which any antihypertensive medication was compared with Placebo or a comparison between different doses of antihypertensives was done. The statistical analyses were conducted using Review Manager with a random-effects model. Our analysis revealed that almost all antihypertensives are effective in treating postpartum hypertension. However, some medications had alternating roles in controlling specific outcomes. Using calcium channel blockers resulted in a faster time to sustain BP control than the control (SMD: -0.37; 95% CI: -0.73 to -0.01; P = 0.04). In contrast, using ACE inhibitors or ARBs demanded the use of other antihypertensives in contrast to all other drugs assessed (RR: 2.09; 95% CI: 1.07 to 4.07; P = 0.03). Timely management of the hypertensive disorders of pregnancy postpartum is life-saving. All the traditional antihypertensives we assessed effectively manage hypertension postpartum, thus allowing the physician to tailor the particular drug regimen according to the patient's needs and comorbidities without any hindrance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Little is known regarding the impact of multiple sclerosis (MS) on maternal and neonatal outcomes. Consequently, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to study the impacts of MS on maternal and neonatal outcomes in pregnant women with a history of MS. This review was designed in line with the PRISMA guidelines. Two researchers conducted independent reviews of the literature without time restrictions until January 2023 using international databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, CINAHL Plus, Embase, Scopus, Science Direct, and Google Scholar. A random-effect meta-analysis, using the db metan command in Stata 17.2, was used to calculate the pooled measure of association. The meta-analysis identified 15 studies involving 33,174,541 pregnant women (32,191 with MS and 33,142,350 as controls). The findings indicate that women with a history of MS are at an increased risk of cesarean delivery (OR=1.28, 95% Confidence Intervals [CI]: 1.14–1.45, p-value: 0.042). Also, these women are at higher risk of neonatal outcomes, such as preterm birth (OR= 1.39, 95% CI: 1.08–1.78, p-value: 0.02), congenital malformations (OR=1.32, 95%CI: 1.16–1.50, p-value: 0.031), Apgar score <7 (OR=2.13, 95% CI: 1.19–3.79, p-value: 0.03), and small for gestational age (OR=1.27, 95% CI: 1.08–1.51, p-value: 0.040). Pregnant women with MS have a greater chance of adverse pregnancy results than pregnant women without MS. Consequently, pregnant women with MS should create detailed before and after pregnancy plans, in consultation with their doctors, spouses, families, and friends, regarding the necessary care and supplements. Future studies applying a prospective cohort design that control for potential confounders are needed to further validate the findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between reading interest strength and vocabulary acquisition in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners through a systematic review and meta-analysis of eleven relevant studies conducted over the last decade, from 2010 to 2020. This study attended by the guidelines of PRISMA. Several stages conducted, such as; identifying the problem, collecting the data, screening, assessing the data, and extracting the data. The data was gathered from peer-reviewed journal articles indexed in databases such as Google Scholar, DOAJ, and Science Direct. Jamovi 1.6.7 was applied to analyze the data. This study aimed to report findings of a meta-analysis assessing correlation among reading interest and vocabulary acquisition. The result obtained was a relatively high relation in reading interest and vocabulary acquisition with pooled correlation = .485 (95% CI = .120 to - .850). The workings between variables were positive, which meant the students read more and increased vocabulary acquisition. Reading lots of text could improve students' vocabulary acquisition. The reading interest strength could develop vocabulary acquisition for EFL learners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Immunization is the process by which a person is made immune or resistant to an infectious disease, typically by the administration of vaccine. Vaccination coverage for other single vaccines ranged from 49.1% for PCV to 69.2% for BCG vaccine. The vaccination coverage for basic vaccinations was 39.7% in Ethiopia. There have been epidemiological studies available on immunization in Ethiopia. Yet, these studies revealed a wide variation over time and across geographical areas. This systematic review and Meta-analysis aim to estimate the overall immunization coverage among 12-23 months children in Ethiopia.Methods: Cross-sectional studies that reported on immunization coverage from 2003 to August 2019 were systematically searched. Searches were conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar, Cochrane library, and gray literature. Information was extracted using a standardized form of Joanna Briggs Institute. The search was updated 20 Jan 2020 to decrease time-lag bias. The quality of studies assessed using Joanna Briggs Institute cross-sectional study quality assessment criteria. I-squared statistics applied to check the heterogeneity of studies. A funnel plot, Begg's test, and Egger's regression test was used to check for publication bias.Results: Out of 206 studies, 30 studies with 21,672 children with mothers were included in the Meta-analysis. The pooled full immunization coverage using the random-effect model in Ethiopia was 58.92% (95% CI: 51.26-66.58%). The trend of immunization coverage was improved from time to time, but there were great disparities among different regions. Amhara region had the highest pooled fully immunized coverage, 72.48 (95%CI: 62.81-82.16). The I2 statistics was I2 = 99.4% (p = 0.0001). A subgroup meta-analysis showed that region and study years were not the sources of heterogeneity.Conclusion: This review showed that full immunization coverage in Ethiopia was 58.92% (95% CI: 51.26-66.58%). The study suggests that the child routine immunization program needs to discuss this low immunization coverage and the current practice needs revision. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Dengue is a vector-borne disease, especially important in tropical and subtropical areas. The first presentation of many arboviral diseases occurred mainly in animals, including multiple Alphaviruses and Flaviviruses , such as dengue., Objective: To determine the serological and molecular frequency of the dengue virus in animals., Methods: A systematic literature review was carried out in five databases for the proportion of animals infected with dengue, defined by molecular and serological tests. A meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model to calculate the pooled prevalence and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Cochran?s Q test and the I2 statistic were used to assess the heterogeneity between the two studies., Results: The presence of dengue in bats, primates, birds, sheep, horses, cattle, pigs, rodents and buffaloes, according to serological methods, had a prevalence of 10%, 29%, 8%, 1%, 11%, 0%, 49%, 2%, 7%, respectively. According to molecular methods, the presence of dengue in bats had a seroprevalence of 6.0%., Conclusion: The present study confirms the presence of the Dengue virus in a large group of animal species, with potential implications as possible reservoirs of this virus, raising the possibility of zoonotic transmission., Competing Interests: Conflict of interest: None.

Objective: To review efficacy of percutaneous closure of patent foramen ovale compared with medical therapy in prevention of recurrent strokes in patients with cryptogenic stroke. Methods and Results: Electronic databases; PUBMED, EMBASE, Cochrane registry and web of knowledge were searched for relevant studies. In three randomised clinical trials involving 2303 participants, risk of the recurrent strokes (pooled HR 0.62, 95% CI=0.36-1.07, P=0.09, I2 =10%) did not show benefit with device closure when compared with medical therapy group on meta-analysis of all three trials. However, on sensitivity analysis in trials using Amplatzer PFO occluder device, the closure of PFO was associated with significantly lower recurrent strokes (pooled HR=0.44, 95% CI=0.21-0.94, P=0.03, I2 =0%) compared with medical therapy. Conclusion: The closure of PFO with Amplatzer PFO occluder device was associated with significant reduction in recurrent strokes in patients with cryptogenic stroke and patent foramen ovale. The better outcome in prevention of secondary stroke in patients with cryptogenic stroke and PFO may be associated with type of closure device used. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This research aimed to make a systematic review of the experimental studies related to Jigsaw technique, one of cooperative learning techniques, conducted in the years of 2005-2012 in Turkey and to determine the effect of Jigsaw technique on students' academic achievements, retention and attitudes. In this context it was tried to answer the question of "What's the effect of Jigsaw technique on students' academic success?". Among 37 studies (25 articles, 12 theses) searched, 11 ones (6 articles, 5 dissertation) in which pretest-posttest method was applied and comparisons between groups were made were selected in particular. Those studies incorporated into meta-analysis and including academic achievement scores were analyzed with random effects model and it was identified that the calculated value had large effect size (ES = 1.1971) according to Cohen's (1992) classification. In conclusion, it was found that using Jigsaw technique in learning environments was effective on students' academic success, retention and attitude scores. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many studies have analyzed the effects of β-cryptoxanthin (BCX) on osteoporosis and bone health. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed at providing quantitative evidence for the effects of BCX on osteoporosis. Publications were selected and retrieved from three databases and carefully screened to evaluate their eligibility. Data from the final 15 eligible studies were extracted and uniformly summarized. Among the 15 studies, seven including 100,496 individuals provided information for the meta-analysis. A random effects model was applied to integrate the odds ratio (OR) to compare the risk of osteoporosis and osteoporosis-related complications between the groups with high and low intake of BCX. A high intake of BCX was significantly correlated with a reduced risk of osteoporosis (OR = 0.79, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.70–0.90, p = 0.0002). The results remained significant when patients were stratified into male and female subgroups as well as Western and Asian cohorts. A high intake of BCX was also negatively associated with the incidence of hip fracture (OR = 0.71, 95% CI 0.54–0.94, p = 0.02). The results indicate that BCX intake potentially reduces the risk of osteoporosis and hip fracture. Further longitudinal studies are needed to validate the causality of current findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Subcutaneous abdominal adipose tissue (SAT), is the largest fat depot and major provider of free fatty acids to the liver. Abdominal fat is indirectly (via increased levels of low-grade inflammation) correlated with many of the adverse health effects of obesity. Although exercise is one of the most prominent components of obesity management, its effects on SAT are still unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the independent effects of aerobic training (AT) and resistance training (RT) modalities and combined exercise modalities on SAT in adults. PubMed, SCOPUS, and Google Scholar were searched to find relevant publications up to November 2018. The effect sizes were represented as weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% CIs. Between-study heterogeneity was examined using the I2 test. Overall, 43 identified trials that enrolled 3552 subjects (2684 women) were included. After removal of outliers, combining effect sizes indicated a significant effect of AT (WMD: -13.05 cm2; 95% CI: -18.52, -7.57; P < 0.001), RT (WMD: -5.39 cm2; 95% CI: -9.66, -1.12; P = 0.01), and combined exercise training (CExT; WMD: -28.82 cm2; 95% CI: -30.83, -26.81; P < 0.001) on SAT relative to control groups. Pooled effect sizes demonstrated a significant effect of AT on SAT compared with a CExT group (WMD: 11.07 cm2; 95% CI: 1.81, 20.33; P = 0.01). However, when comparing the AT and RT groups, no significant difference was seen in SAT (WMD: -0.73 cm2; 95% CI: -4.50, 3.04; P = 0.70). Meta-analysis of relevant trials indicated that AT, RT, and CExT lead to SAT reduction. Aerobic exercise was shown to produce greater efficacy in decreasing SAT., (Copyright © The Author(s) on behalf of the American Society for Nutrition 2020.)

This study aimed to systematically review studies that examined the prevalence of gender based violence (GBV) that included intimate partner violence (IPV) and non-IPV among women in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). This evidence is an important aspect to work towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG's) target of eliminating all forms of violence in SSA. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines were followed. Ovid Medline, CINAHL, Cochrane Central, Embase, Scopus and Web of Science were used to source articles with stringent eligibility criteria. Studies on GBV in SSA countries that were published in English from 2008 to 2019 were included. A random effect meta-analysis was used. Fifty-eight studies met the inclusion criteria. The pooled prevalence of IPV among women was 44%, the past year-pooled prevalence of IPV was 35.5% and non-IPV pooled prevalence was 14%. The highest prevalence rates of IPV that were reported included emotional (29.40%), physical (25.87%) and sexual (18.75%) violence. The sub-regional analysis found that women residing in Western (30%) and Eastern (25%) African regions experienced higher levels of emotional violence. Integrated mitigation measures to reduce GBV in SSA should focus mainly on IPV in order to achieve the SDG's that will lead to sustainable changes in women's health.

Background: There are several epidemiological studies available on hepatitis B virus among pregnant women in Ethiopia. These individual studies revealed wide variation over time and across geographical areas. The aim of this systematic review and Meta-analysis is to estimate the overall prevalence of hepatitis B virus infection among pregnant women in Ethiopia.Methods: A comprehensive search of electronic databases including PubMed, Popline, Lalicus, Ovid, MedNar, African Journal Online (AJOL) and advanced Google Scholar was conducted regardless of publication year from August 30, 2017 to September 25, 2017. The search was updated on January 02, 2018 to minimize time-lag bias. The methodological qualities of included studies were assessed using Joanna Briggs Institute Meta-Analysis of Statistics Assessment and Review Instruments.Results: Out of 103 studies, 17 studies with a total of 5629 pregnant women were included in the Meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of hepatitis B virus infection among pregnant women using random-effect model was 4.7%(95% CI 4.0-5.4%). The I2 statistics was I2 = 37.9%(p = 0.0575). Even though significant heterogeneity among studies was not detected, the I2 = 37.9% suggests medium heterogeneity. A subgroup Meta-analysis showed that study site, region, mean/median sample size, hepatitis B virus screening methods and methodological quality were not source of heterogeneity (p-difference > 0.05).Conclusion: This review shows an intermediate level of hepatitis B virus infection among pregnant women in Ethiopia. In addition to the current practice of child vaccination, routine and universal antenatal hepatitis B virus screening program need to be implemented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]