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BMC Public Health Jun 2024Undernutrition increases the risk of TB infection to be active TB, death and relapse of the disease. Undernutrition also disturbs the management process of tuberculosis.... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
BACKGROUND
Undernutrition increases the risk of TB infection to be active TB, death and relapse of the disease. Undernutrition also disturbs the management process of tuberculosis. Therefore, this study aimed to estimate the pooled magnitude and determinants of undernutrition among TB patients in Ethiopia.
METHODS
From August 20, 2022 to January 6, 2023, the research articles were identified via the search engines Google Scholar, Medline, Pub Med, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science. Stata version 14 was used for analysis, along with a standardized data extraction checklist. The Cochrane Q test statistic and I2 statistics were used to determine heterogeneity. A random-effect model was used to assess the extent of undernutrition among TB patients. OR with a 95% CI was used to report the relationship between undernutrition and independent factors. A funnel plot and Egger's test were used to examine publication bias.
RESULTS
A total of 720 research articles were identified via several databases and 21 studies were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis. The pooled magnitude of undernutrition among TB patients was 48.23% (95% CI 42.84, 53.62). The current meta-analysis revealed that patients who had no formal education (OR = 2.11(95%CI: 1.09, 4.06), average monthly income < 1800 ETB (OR = 2.32 (95CI: 1.33, 4.04), unable to work (OR = 2.61(95CI:1.99, 3.43), patients who had eating disorder (OR = 2.73 (95CI: 2.09, 3.56), patients who had intestinal parasite (OR = 3.77 (95CI: 2.39, 5.94), patients of > 5 family size (OR = 3.79 (95CI: 1.06, 14.93), and patients who drank alcohol (OR = 1.47(95CI: 1.06, 2.05) were significantly associated with undernutrition.
CONCLUSION
This meta-analysis examined the high magnitude of undernutrition among TB patients in Ethiopia. Strategic and police-oriented intervention to prevent factors contributing to the problem is mandatory.
Topics: Humans; Ethiopia; Malnutrition; Tuberculosis; Risk Factors
PubMed: 38918733
DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-19220-3 -
Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience Jun 2024In electroencephalographic (EEG) data, power-frequency slope exponents (1/f) can provide non-invasive markers of in vivo neural activity excitation-inhibition (E:I)... (Review)
Review
In electroencephalographic (EEG) data, power-frequency slope exponents (1/f) can provide non-invasive markers of in vivo neural activity excitation-inhibition (E:I) balance. E:I balance may be altered in neurodevelopmental conditions; hence, understanding how 1/f evolves across infancy/childhood has implications for developing early assessments/interventions. This systematic review (PROSPERO-ID: CRD42023363294) explored the early maturation (0-26 yrs) of resting-state EEG 1/f measures (aperiodic [AE], power law [PLE] and Hurst [HE] exponents), including studies containing ≥1 1/f measures and ≥10 typically developing participants. Five databases (including Embase and Scopus) were searched during March 2023. Forty-two studies were identified (N=3478). Risk of bias was assessed using the Quality Assessment with Diverse Studies tool. Narrative synthesis of HE data suggests non-stationary EEG activity occurs throughout development. Age-related trends were complex, with rapid decreases in AEs during infancy and heterogenous changes thereafter. Regionally, AE maxima shifted developmentally, potentially reflecting spatial trends in maturing brain connectivity. This work highlights the importance of further characterising the development of 1/f measures to better understand how E:I balance shapes brain and cognitive development.
PubMed: 38917647
DOI: 10.1016/j.dcn.2024.101402 -
The Journal of Nutrition, Health & Aging Jun 2024Anorexia of aging (AoA) is a prevalent geriatric syndrome characterized by a multifactorial decline in appetite and reduced food intake associated with the aging... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES
Anorexia of aging (AoA) is a prevalent geriatric syndrome characterized by a multifactorial decline in appetite and reduced food intake associated with the aging process. This systematic review aims to investigate the use and outcomes of cannabinoids in addressing AoA, with the goal of providing a comprehensive understanding and discussing their potential integration into daily clinical practice.
METHODS
A thorough search of databases (Embase Ovid, Scopus, PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science) identified 6100 studies. After eliminating duplicates and screening titles and abstracts, 25 studies underwent full appraisal. Two reviewers assessed inclusion suitability, and study methodologies were evaluated using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) for observational studies and the modified Jadad Scoring Scale for randomized controlled trials. Ultimately, six studies published between 2002 and 2019, involving 869 participants, were included in the review.
RESULTS
Out of the 6 fin. l papers selected, 5 were randomized trials, and 1 was a prospective study. Megestrol acetate (800 mg/d) proved to be more effective than dronabinol 2.5 mg twice a day in increasing appetite. Nabilone (at a dosage of 0.5 mg per day) did not show superiority over placebo in alleviating symptoms such as pain, nausea, loss of appetite, and weight. However, with a double dosage followed by 1.0 mg/6 weeks, after eight weeks of treatment, patients recorded a significant increase in calorie intake and carbohydrate consumption compared to the placebo group, with some patients also experiencing substantial weight gain. Regarding delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a weight increase of ≥10% was observed in 17.6% of patients with doses of 5 mg or 10 mg capsules daily, without significant side effects. Additionally, patients treated with THC 2.5 mg reported improved chemosensory perception and increased appetite before meals compared to placebo. No significant side effects were reported in older adults taking cannabinoids.
CONCLUSIONS
Cannabinoids offer promise in enhancing the quality of life for older individuals with active neoplastic disease. However, to establish comprehensive guidelines, further research with larger sample sizes is essential. Only through this approach can we fully grasp the potential and application of cannabinoids in addressing the nutritional concerns associated with neoplastic diseases.
PubMed: 38917597
DOI: 10.1016/j.jnha.2024.100299 -
PloS One 2024To review published Physical Activity (PA) on the Mental Health of Children and Adolescents aged 5 to 18 years during COVID-19 pandemic-induced school closures.
PROPOSE
To review published Physical Activity (PA) on the Mental Health of Children and Adolescents aged 5 to 18 years during COVID-19 pandemic-induced school closures.
METHODS
From the database creation to April 2022, 10 databases are retrieved, with 4427 records filtered, 14 included in this research. The research takes Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) evaluation standards.
RESULTS
The thesis selects 14 studies from 6 countries, involving 400009 children and adolescents. These studies happened during the lockdown of COVID-19 (from December 2019 to April 2021). During the lockdown of COVID-19, schools were closed, which was considered part of a more extensive lockdown. Schools were closed for 1 to 4 weeks. There were 10 high quality studies (71.4%) and 4 medium quality studies (28.6%). 4 studies report that the pandemic reduces the time of PA but increases the time of watching screen and sitting. 10 studies (71.4%) identify that PA is positive for the mental health, because it helps reduce mental symptoms to a certain extent, especially anxiety, depression, and emotional disorders. 5 studies show that PA may not improve the mental health of children and adolescents under 12 during the pandemic. 4 studies indicate that the influence of PA on mental health of children and adolescents is determined by the amount of activity, including the extent, intensity, frequency, and duration, etc.
CONCLUSIONS
In this narrative synthesis of reports from the class suspension period, reports that PA has a improve on the mental health of children and adolescents to a certain extent. it is found that PA may be helpful in reducing mental health symptoms of children and adolescents who are influenced by class suspension because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, stakeholders of the mental health of children and adolescents around the world should recommend PA because it is a practicable and beneficial way for long-term mental support.
Topics: Humans; COVID-19; Child; Adolescent; Mental Health; Exercise; Schools; Pandemics; SARS-CoV-2; Child, Preschool; Anxiety; Quarantine
PubMed: 38917211
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0299158 -
Health Promotion International Jun 2024This systematic review and meta-analysis assessed the effectiveness of physical activity interventions on undergraduate students' mental health. Seven databases were... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
This systematic review and meta-analysis assessed the effectiveness of physical activity interventions on undergraduate students' mental health. Seven databases were searched and a total of 59 studies were included. Studies with a comparable control group were meta-analysed, and remaining studies were narratively synthesized. The included studies scored very low GRADE and had a high risk of bias. Meta-analyses indicated physical activity interventions are effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety (n = 20, standardized mean difference (SMD) = -0.88, 95% CI [-1.23, -0.52]), depression (n = 14, SMD = -0.73, 95% CI [-1.00, -0.47]) and stress (n = 10, SMD = -0.61, 95% CI [-0.94, -0.28]); however, there was considerable heterogeneity (anxiety, I2 = 90.29%; depression I2 = 49.66%; stress I2 = 86.97%). The narrative synthesis had mixed findings. Only five studies reported being informed by a behavioural change theory and only 30 reported intervention fidelity. Our review provides evidence supporting the potential of physical activity interventions in enhancing the mental health of undergraduate students. More robust intervention design and implementation are required to better understand the effectiveness of PA interventions on mental health outcomes.
Topics: Humans; Exercise; Students; Mental Health; Anxiety; Depression; Stress, Psychological; Universities; Health Promotion
PubMed: 38916148
DOI: 10.1093/heapro/daae054 -
Journal of Neuroengineering and... Jun 2024Repeated transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) could induce alterations in cortical excitability and promote neuroplasticity. To precisely quantify these effects,... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
Impact of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation on cortical activity: a systematic review and meta-analysis utilizing functional near-infrared spectroscopy evaluation.
BACKGROUND
Repeated transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) could induce alterations in cortical excitability and promote neuroplasticity. To precisely quantify these effects, functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), an optical neuroimaging modality adept at detecting changes in cortical hemodynamic responses, has been employed concurrently alongside rTMS to measure and tailor the impact of diverse rTMS protocols on the brain cortex.
OBJECTIVE
This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to elucidate the effects of rTMS on cortical hemodynamic responses over the primary motor cortex (M1) as detected by fNIRS.
METHODS
Original articles that utilized rTMS to stimulate the M1 cortex in combination with fNIRS for the assessment of cortical activity were systematically searched across the PubMed, Embase, and Scopus databases. The search encompassed records from the inception of these databases up until April, 2024. The assessment for risk of bias was also conducted. A meta-analysis was also conducted in studies with extractable raw data.
RESULTS
Among 312 studies, 14 articles were eligible for qualitative review. 7 studies were eligible for meta-analysis. A variety of rTMS protocols was employed on M1 cortex. In inhibitory rTMS, multiple studies observed a reduction in the concentration of oxygenated hemoglobin [HbO] at the ipsilateral M1, contrasted by an elevation at the contralateral M1. Meta-analysis also corroborated this consistent trend. Nevertheless, certain investigations unveiled diminished [HbO] in bilateral M1. Several studies also depicted intricate inhibitory or excitatory interplay among distinct cortical regions.
CONCLUSION
Diverse rTMS protocols led to varied patterns of cortical activity detected by fNIRS. Meta-analysis revealed a trend of increasing [HbO] in the contralateral cortices and decreasing [HbO] in the ipsilateral cortices following low frequency inhibitory rTMS. However, due to the heterogeneity between studies, further research is necessary to comprehensively understand rTMS-induced alterations in brain activity.
Topics: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation; Spectroscopy, Near-Infrared; Humans; Motor Cortex
PubMed: 38915003
DOI: 10.1186/s12984-024-01407-9 -
Iranian Journal of Public Health May 2024The educational needs of future health administrators, prioritizing their needs, and developing a relationship between these needs and the needs of the community are... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
The educational needs of future health administrators, prioritizing their needs, and developing a relationship between these needs and the needs of the community are very important to provide better responsiveness. We aimed to identify the knowledge and skills required for health care management students as future managers of the health community.
METHODS
In this systematic literature review, all studies conducted between 1990 and 2021 were searched in such databases as MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, ProQuest Iran Medex, Magiran and Scientific Information Database (SID), and the collected data were analyzed via the thematic analysis method.
RESULTS
Findings of this study were divided into two main categories and fourteen subcategories, including knowledge-related factors (awareness of the structure and processes in the field of health and knowledge of management science) and skill-related factors (planning, coordination, organization, leadership, control and evaluation, management of financial resources and budgeting, service management, communication and information management, human resource management, implementation of participatory and team activities, crisis management, entrepreneurship, innovation, marketing, policymaking, and decision-making).
CONCLUSION
By identifying the knowledge and skills that students need, it is possible to empower them through necessary education. Therefore, by providing responsive education, developing skills, and improving capabilities, we can take an effective step to improve the quality of health system services.
PubMed: 38912152
DOI: 10.18502/ijph.v53i5.15582 -
Iranian Journal of Public Health May 2024Burnout is an occupational syndrome, with a higher prevalence in professionals whose close involvement with other people is significant. There is a great diversity of... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Burnout is an occupational syndrome, with a higher prevalence in professionals whose close involvement with other people is significant. There is a great diversity of professionals at risk of burnout, and therefore the implementation of intervention programs is relevant, as helping people to maintain their mental and emotional health enables them to become more meaningfully involved in their communities and become more effective and active global citizens. We aimed to review systematically the characteristics of interventions targeting burnout in health professionals.
METHODS
The search was conducted in three databases: Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed, following the PRISMA model, and 16 eligible articles were identified between 2012 and 2023.
RESULTS
Mindfulness showed great efficacy in preventing burnout, by reducing stress levels and promoting empathy. In addition, relaxation and breathing techniques, yoga, and music therapy showed to improve burnout and occupational stress levels. Balint groups have also helped slow the progression of burnout. Implications about the need for future research to foster the promotion of well-being and mental health of health professionals are mentioned.
CONCLUSION
Mindfulness, relaxation and breathing techniques, yoga, music therapy and balint groups proved to be effective in preventing burnout.
PubMed: 38912141
DOI: 10.18502/ijph.v53i5.15580 -
Annals of Surgery Open : Perspectives... Jun 2024The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to identify current robotic assistance systems for percutaneous liver ablations, compare approaches, and determine...
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to identify current robotic assistance systems for percutaneous liver ablations, compare approaches, and determine how to achieve standardization of procedural concepts for optimized ablation outcomes.
BACKGROUND
Image-guided surgical approaches are increasingly common. Assistance by navigation and robotic systems allows to optimize procedural accuracy, with the aim to consistently obtain adequate ablation volumes.
METHODS
Several databases (PubMed/MEDLINE, ProQuest, Science Direct, Research Rabbit, and IEEE Xplore) were systematically searched for robotic preclinical and clinical percutaneous liver ablation studies, and relevant original manuscripts were included according to the Preferred Reporting items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. The endpoints were the type of device, insertion technique (freehand or robotic), planning, execution, and confirmation of the procedure. A meta-analysis was performed, including comparative studies of freehand and robotic techniques in terms of radiation dose, accuracy, and Euclidean error.
RESULTS
The inclusion criteria were met by 33/755 studies. There were 24 robotic devices reported for percutaneous liver surgery. The most used were the MAXIO robot (8/33; 24.2%), Zerobot, and AcuBot (each 2/33, 6.1%). The most common tracking system was optical (25/33, 75.8%). In the meta-analysis, the robotic approach was superior to the freehand technique in terms of individual radiation (0.5582, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.0167-1.0996, dose-length product range 79-2216 mGy.cm), accuracy (0.6260, 95% CI = 0.1423-1.1097), and Euclidean error (0.8189, 95% CI = -0.1020 to 1.7399).
CONCLUSIONS
Robotic assistance in percutaneous ablation for liver tumors achieves superior results and reduces errors compared with manual applicator insertion. Standardization of concepts and reporting is necessary and suggested to facilitate the comparison of the different parameters used to measure liver ablation results. The increasing use of image-guided surgery has encouraged robotic assistance for percutaneous liver ablations. This systematic review analyzed 33 studies and identified 24 robotic devices, with optical tracking prevailing. The meta-analysis favored robotic assessment, showing increased accuracy and reduced errors compared with freehand technique, emphasizing the need for conceptual standardization.
PubMed: 38911657
DOI: 10.1097/AS9.0000000000000406 -
Campbell Systematic Reviews Jun 2024Investment in mobile devices to support primary or elementary education is increasing and must be informed by robust evidence to demonstrate impact. This systematic... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Investment in mobile devices to support primary or elementary education is increasing and must be informed by robust evidence to demonstrate impact. This systematic review of randomised controlled trials sought to identify the overall impact of mobile devices to support literacy and numeracy outcomes in mainstream primary classrooms.
OBJECTIVES
The aim of this systematic review was to understand how mobile devices are used in primary/elementary education around the world, and in particular, determine how activities undertaken using mobile devices in the primary classroom might impact literacy and numeracy attainment for the pupils involved. Within this context, mobile devices are defined as tablets (including iPads and other branded devices), smartphones (usually those with a touchscreen interface and internet connectivity) and handheld games consoles (again usually with touchscreen and internet-enabled). The interventions of interest were those aimed at improving literacy and/or numeracy for children aged 4-12 within the primary/elementary school (or equivalent) classroom.Specifically, the review aimed to answer the following research questions: -What is the effect of mobile device integration in the primary school classroom on children's literacy and numeracy outcomes?-Are there specific devices which are more effective in supporting literacy and numeracy? (Tablets, smartphones, or handheld games consoles)-Are there specific classroom integration activities which moderate effectiveness in supporting literacy and numeracy?-Are there specific groups of children for whom mobile devices are more effective in supporting literacy and numeracy? (Across age group and gender).-Do the benefits of mobile devices for learning last for any time beyond the study?-What is the quality of available evidence on the use of mobile devices in primary/elementary education, and where is further research needed in this regard? An Expert Advisory Group supported the review process at key stages to ensure relevance to current practice.
SEARCH METHODS
The search strategy was designed to retrieve both published and unpublished literature, and incorporated relevant journal and other databases with a focus on education and social sciences. Robust electronic database searches were undertaken (12 databases, including APA PsychInfo, Web of Science, ERIC, British Education Index and others, and relevant government and other websites), as well as a hand-search of relevant journals and conference proceedings. Contact was also made with prominent authors in the field to identify any ongoing or unpublished research. All searches and author contact took place between October and November 2020. The review team acknowledges that new studies will likely have emerged since and are not captured at this time. A further update to the review in the future is important and would build on the evidence reflected here.
SELECTION CRITERIA
The review included children within mainstream primary/elementary/kindergarten education settings in any country (aged 4-12), and interventions or activities initiated within the primary school classroom (or global equivalent) that used mobile devices (including tablets, smartphones, or hand-held gaming devices) to intentionally support literacy or numeracy learning. In terms of study design, only Randomised Controlled Trials were included in the review.
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS
A total of 668 references were identified through a robust search strategy including published and unpublished literature. Following duplicate screening, 18 relevant studies, including 11,126 participants, 14 unique interventions, and 46 relevant outcome measures were synthesised using Robust Variance Estimation and a random effects meta-analysis model. Risk of Bias assessment was undertaken by three reviewers using the ROB2 tool to assess the quality of studies, with 13 studies rated as having some concerns, and 5 as having high risk of bias. Qualitative data was also extracted and analysed in relation to the types of interventions included to allow a comparison of the key elements of each.
MAIN RESULTS
A positive, statistically significant combined effect was found (Cohen's = 0.24, CI 0.0707 to 0.409, < 0.01), demonstrating that in the studies and interventions included, children undertaking maths or literacy interventions using mobile devices achieved higher numeracy or literacy outcomes than those using an alternative device (e.g., a laptop or desktop computer) or no device (class activities as usual). However these results should be interpreted with caution given the risk of bias assessment noted above (5 studies rated high risk of bias and 13 rated as having some concerns). As the interventions and classroom circumstances differed quite widely, further research is needed to understand any potential impact more fully.Sensitivity analysis aimed to identify moderating factors including age or gender, screen size, frequency/dosage of intervention exposure, and programme implementation features/activities (based on Puentedura's [2009] SAMR model of technology integration). There were too few studies identified to support quantitative analysis of sufficient power to draw robust conclusions on moderating factors, and insufficient data to determine impact beyond immediate post-test period. Sensitivty analysis was also undertaken to exclude the five studies identified as having a high risk of bias, to identify any impact they may have on overall findings.
AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS
Overall, this review demonstrates that for the specific interventions and studies included, mobile device use in the classroom led to a significant, positive effect on literacy and numeracy outcomes for the children involved, bringing positive implications for their continued use in primary education. However given the concerns on risk of bias assessment reported above, the differing circumstances, interventions and treatment conditions and intensities, the findings must be interpreted with caution. The review also supports the need for further robust research to better understand what works, under what circumstances, and for whom, in the use of mobile devices to support learning.
PubMed: 38911050
DOI: 10.1002/cl2.1417