bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Endoscopic transpapillary drainage for walled-off pancreatic necrosis with complete main pancreatic duct disruption by metallic stent placement: A retrospective study
Authors: Meng Yajie , Ding Jiewen , Tian Chuan , Wang Min , Tang Kejiang
Published: December 2022

Background

Walled-off pancreatic necrosis (WOPN) is a serious complication of acute necrotizing pancreatitis (ANP) and may lead to disruption of the main pancreatic duct (MPD). Endoscopic passive transpapillary drainage (PTD) is an effective method for treating MPD disruptions. However, WOPN with complete MPD disruption is usually accompanied by disconnected pancreatic duct syndrome (DPDS), especially with infected necrosis. Endoscopic PTD with a fully covered self-expanding metallic stent (FCSEMS) and a plastic stent placement may have the potential for future application in treating complete MPD disruption in patients with WOPN.

Methods

Patients with WOPN caused by ANP were classified according to the 2012 Atlanta classification and definition. In all patients, ERCP was performed 2 times. First, 3 patients were diagnosed with complete MPD disruption by ERCP. At the time of diagnosis, a plastic pancreatic stent (7Fr) was placed. Second, they underwent endoscopic PTD for WOPN with complete MPD disruption in which an FCSEMS and plastic stent placement were the only access routes to the necrotic cavity.

Results

The etiology of pancreatitis in these patients was of biliary, lipogenic, and alcoholic origin. The WOPN lesion size ranged from 6.5 to 10.2 cm in this study, and the type of WOPN was mixed in two cases and central in one case. The type of MPD disruption was complete in all three patients. The locations of disruption included the pancreatic body and head. The time from occurrence to the first ERCP was 18, 23, and 26 days, respectively. The main symptoms were abdominal pain, abdominal distention, fever, gastrointestinal obstruction, and/or weight loss. The three patients with symptomatic WOPN and MPD disruption underwent endoscopic PTD with FCSEMS and plastic pancreatic stent placement. Technical and therapeutic successes were achieved in 3/3 of patients. The mean time of stenting was 28–93 days. The clinical symptoms connected with WOPN and collection disappeared postoperatively in all three patients. During the follow-up period of 4–18 months, no patient developed collection recurrence or other complications, such as gastrointestinal bleeding or reinfection. All patients recovered uneventfully.

Conclusion

In patients with WOPN with complete MPD disruption, endoscopic PTD with FCSEMSs and plastic stent placement may be an effective and safe method of treatment.
Diagnostic efficiency of metagenomic next-generation sequencing for suspected spinal tuberculosis in China: A multicenter prospective study
Authors: Li Yuan , Yao Xiao-wei , Tang Liang , Dong Wei-jie , Lan Ting-long , Fan Jun , Liu Feng-sheng , Qin Shi-bing
Published: December 2022

Background

The pathogens of suspected spinal tuberculosis (TB) include TB and non-TB bacteria. A rapid and effective diagnostic method that can detect TB and non-TB pathogens simultaneously remains lacking. Here, we used metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) to detect the pathogens in patients with suspected spinal TB.

Methods

The enrolled patients with suspected spinal TB were regrouped three times into patients with spinal infection and controls, patients with spinal TB and controls, and patients with non-TB spinal infection and controls. We tested the three groups separately by using mNGS and conventional detection methods.

Results

Ultimately, 100 patients were included in this study. Pathogens were detected in 82 patients. Among the 82 patients, 37 had TB and 45 were infected with other bacteria. In patients with spinal infection, the sensitivity of the mNGS assay was higher than that of culture and pathological examination (p < 0.001, p < 0.001). The specificity of the mNGS assay was not statistically different from that of culture and pathological examination (p = 1.000, p = 1.000). In patients with spinal TB, no statistical difference was found between the sensitivity of the mNGS assay and that of Xpert and T-SPOT.TB (p = 1.000, p = 0.430). The sensitivity of the mNGS assay was higher than that of MGIT 960 culture and pathological examination (p < 0.001, p = 0.006). The specificities of the mNGS assay, Xpert, MGIT 960 culture, and pathological examination were all 100%. The specificity of T-SPOT.TB (78.3%) was lower than that of the mNGS assay (100%; p < 0.001). In patients with non-TB spinal infection, the sensitivity of the mNGS assay was higher than that of bacterial culture and pathological examination (p < 0.001, p < 0.001). The specificity of the mNGS assay was not statistically different from that of bacterial culture and pathological examination (p = 1.000, p = 1.000).

Conclusion

Data presented here demonstrated that mNGS can detect TB and non-TB bacteria simultaneously, with high sensitivity, specificity and short detection time. Compared with conventional detection methods, mNGS is a more rapid and effective diagnostic tool for suspected spinal TB.
Construction and analysis of gene co-expression network in the pathogenic fungus Ustilago maydis
Authors: Soberanes-Gutiérrez Cinthia V. , Castillo-Jiménez Alfredo , Pérez-Rueda Ernesto , Galán-Vásquez Edgardo
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Biological systems respond to environmental disturbances and a wide range of compounds through complex gene interaction networks. The enormous growth of experimental information obtained using large-scale genomic techniques such as microarrays and RNA sequencing led to the construction of a wide variety of gene co-expression networks in recent years. These networks allow the discovery of clusters of co-expressed genes that potentially work in the same process linking them to biological processes often of interest to industrial, medicinal, and academic research.

Methods

In this study, we built the gene co-expression network of Ustilago maydis from the gene expression data of 168 samples belonging to 19 series, which correspond to the GPL3681 platform deposited in the NCBI using WGCNA software. This network was analyzed to identify clusters of co-expressed genes, gene hubs and Gene Ontology terms. Additionally, we identified relevant modules through a hypergeometric approach based on a predicted set of transcription factors and virulence genes.

Results and Discussion

We identified 13 modules in the gene co-expression network of U. maydis. The TFs enriched in the modules of interest belong to the superfamilies of Nucleic acid-binding proteins, Winged helix DNA-binding, and Zn2/Cys6 DNA-binding. On the other hand, the modules enriched with virulence genes were classified into diseases related to corn smut, Invasive candidiasis, among others. Finally, a large number of hypothetical, a large number of hypothetical genes were identified as highly co-expressed with virulence genes, making them possible experimental targets.
The effect of Lactobacillus with prebiotics on KPC-2-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae
Authors: Tang Hung-Jen , Chen Chi-Chung , Lu Ying-Chen , Huang Hui-Ling , Chen Hung-Jui , Chuang Yin-Ching , Lai Chih-Cheng , Chao Chien-Ming
Published: December 2022

Objectives

This study investigated the inhibitory effect ofLactobacillusspp. with prebiotics againstKlebsiella pneumoniaecarbapenemase-2 (KPC-2)-producingKlebsiella pneumoniaeusing bothin vitroexperiments and animal models.

Methods

Thirty-threeLactobacillusspp. strains were confirmed by 16S rDNA sequencing, and four different PFGE genotyped KPC-2-producingK. pneumoniaestrains were selected for investigation.In vitrostudies, including broth microdilution assays, changes in pH values in lactobacilli cultures with different prebiotics, time-kill tests ofLactobacillusspp. against KPC-2-producingK. pneumoniaeand furtherin vivo Lactobacillusalone or in combination with prebiotics against KPC-2-producingK. pneumoniaein an animal model, were performed.

Results

The lower pH value of the cell-free supernatant was associated with a lower minimal inhibitory percentage of theLactobacillusstrain against KPC-2-producingK. pneumoniae.Furthermore, lactulose/isomalto-oligosaccharide/inulin and fructo-oligosaccharide can enhance the inhibitory effect of all 107CFU/mlLactobacillusstrains against KPC001. ThreeLactobacillusstrains (LYC1154, LYC1322, and LYC1511) that could be persistently detected in the stool were tested for their ability to reduce the amount of KPC001 in the feces individually or in combination. A significantly better effect in reducing the amount of KPC001 was observed for the combination of three differentLactobacillusspecies than for each of them alone. Furthermore, their inhibitory effect was enhanced after adding lactulose or isomalto-oligosaccharide (bothp < 0.05).

Conclusion

This study demonstrates the inhibitory effect of probioticLactobacillus, including LYC1154, LYC1322, and LYC1511, with prebiotics such as lactulose or isomalto-oligosaccharide against the colonization of KPC-2-producingK. pneumoniae.
Protective effects of thiamine on Wickerhamomyces anomalus against ethanol stress
Authors: Li Yinfeng , Long Hua , Jiang Guilan , Yu Zhihai , Huang Mingzheng , Zou Shiping , Guan Tianbing , Zhao Yan , Liu Xiaozhu
Published: December 2022

Wickerhamomyces anomalus (W. anomalus) is widely reported in the brewing industry and has positive effects on the aromatic profiles of wines because of its unique physiological characteristics and metabolic features. However, the accumulation of ethanol during fermentation inhibits the growth of W. anomalus. Thiamine is involved in the response against various abiotic stresses in microorganisms. Therefore, we used transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses to study the effect of thiamine on ethanol-stressed W. anomalus. The results indicate that thiamine could alleviate the inhibitory effect of ethanol stress on the survival of W. anomalus. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and differentially expressed metabolites (DEMs) caused by the thiamine intervention were identified as oxidative phosphorylation through integrated transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses. In addition, ethanol treatment decreased the content of intracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP), while thiamine partially alleviated this phenomenon. The present comprehensive transcriptional overview and metabolomic analysis provide insights about the mechanisms of thiamine protection on W. anomalus under ethanol stress and promote the potential applications of W. anomalus in the fermentation industry.
A practical guide to botulinum neurotoxin treatment of shoulder spasticity 2: Injection techniques, outcome measurement scales, and case studies
Authors: Wissel Jörg , Camões-Barbosa Alexandre , Carda Stefano , Hoad Damon , Jacinto Jorge
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Botulinum neurotoxin type A (BoNT-A) is a first-line treatment option for post-stroke spasticity, reducing pain and involuntary movements and helping to restore function. BoNT-A is frequently injected into the arm, the wrist, the hand, and/or the finger muscles but less often into the shoulder muscles, despite clinical trials demonstrating improvements in pain and function after shoulder BoNT-A injection.

Methods

In part 2 of this two-part practical guide, we present an experts' consensus on the choice of outcome measurement scales and goal-setting recommendations for BoNT-A in the treatment of shoulder spasticity to increase awareness of shoulder muscle injection with BoNT-A, alongside the more commonly injected upper limb muscles. Expert consensus was obtained from five European experts with a cumulative experience of more than 100 years of BoNT-A use in post-stroke spasticity. Case studies are included as examples of approaches taken in the treatment of shoulder spasticity.

Results

Although the velocity-dependent increase in muscle tone is often a focus of patient assessment, it is only one component of spasticity and should be assessed as part of a wider range of measurements. For outcome measurement following BoNT-A injection in shoulder muscles, shoulder-specific scales are recommended. Other scales to be considered include Pain Numerical Rating and/or global functioning, as well as the quality of life and global perception of benefit scores.

Goal setting is an essential part of the multidisciplinary management process for spasticity; goals should be patient-centric, realistic, and achievable; functional-focused goal statements and a mixture of short- (3–6 month) and long-term (9–18 month) goals are recommended. These can be grouped into symptomatic, passive function, active function, involuntary movement, and global mobility.

Clinical evaluation tools, goal setting, and outcome expectations for the multipattern treatment of shoulder spasticity with BoNT-A should be defined by the whole multidisciplinary team, ensuring patient and caregiver involvement.

Discussion

These recommendations will be of benefit to clinicians who may not be experienced in evaluating and treating spastic shoulders.
Role of serum ceruloplasmin in the diagnosis of Wilson's disease: A large Chinese study
Authors: Yang Yue , Hao Wenjie , Wei Taohua , Tang LuLu , Qian Nannan , Yang Yulong , Xi Hu , Zhang Shijie , Yang Wenming
Published: December 2022

Background

Conventionally, serum ceruloplasmin levels below the lower reference limit (0. 20 g/L) is considered a diagnostic cutoff point for Wilson's disease (WD). However, the lower reference limit varies with assay methodologies and the individuals in the included studies. The objective of this study was to determine the optimal cutoff value of serum ceruloplasmin levels for the diagnosis of WD in a large Chinese cohort and to identify factors associated with serum ceruloplasmin.

Methods

The cutoff value of ceruloplasmin levels was developed based on a retrospective derivation cohort of 3,548 subjects (1,278 patients with WD and 2,270 controls) and was validated in a separate validation cohort of 313 subjects (203 patients with WD and 110 controls). The performance of immunoassay was tested by receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis, and differences among the groups were analyzed by using the Mann–Whitney U-test and the Kruskal–Wallis test.

Results

The conventional cutoff of serum ceruloplasmin levels of <0.2 g/L had an accuracy of 81.9%, which led to a false-positive rate of 30.5%. The optimal cutoff of the serum ceruloplasmin level for separating patients with WD from other participants was 0.13 g/L, as determined by ROC analysis. This cutoff value had the highest AUC value (0.99), a sensitivity of 97.0%, and a specificity of 96.1%. Moreover, it prevented unnecessary further investigations and treatments for 492 false-positive patients. By determining the correlation between serum ceruloplasmin and phenotypes/genotypes in patients with WD, we found that the serum ceruloplasmin level was lower in early-onset patients and higher in late-onset patients. Interestingly, patients with the R778L/R919G genotype had higher serum ceruloplasmin levels than patients with other hot spot mutation combinations.

Conclusion

Our work determined the optimal cutoff value of serum ceruloplasmin levels for the diagnosis of WD and identified differences in serum ceruloplasmin levels with respect to the age of symptom onset and ATP7B mutations, which may provide some valuable insights into the diagnosis and counsel of patients with WD.
Physical properties, antioxidant capacity, and starch digestibility of cookies enriched with steam-exploded wheat bran
Authors: Kong Feng , Li Yue , Xue Di , Ding Yishuai , Sun Xiaofan , Guo Xingfeng , Wang Wenhao
Published: December 2022

Wheat bran-based food is rich in bioactive compounds, and steam explosion enhances the nutritional properties of wheat bran. This study examined the potential utilization of steam-exploded wheat bran (SWB) in cookie formulation. The influence of steam explosion on the chemical compounds in wheat bran and the effects of SWB on the physical properties, antioxidant capacity, and starch digestibility of cookies were investigated. The results showed that steam explosion facilitated the release of reducing sugar, flavonoids, phenolic substances, and amino acid nitrogen in wheat bran, thereby improving its nutritional properties. The reduction of sugar, total flavonoids, total phenolics, and amino acid nitrogen contents of wheat bran after steam explosion increased by 34.22, 183.02, 284.09, and 93.39%, respectively, compared with those of native wheat bran. Substitution of SWB for wheat flour mainly induced higher water, sodium carbonate, and sucrose solvent retention capacities, which were positively related to the spread ratio and hardness of cookies. The cookies with more SWB substitution (30–50%) expressed a higher spread ratio and harder texture than the others. The substitution of SWB caused changes in the antioxidant properties of cookies, which were related to the phenolic content. The cookies with SWB showed a higher DPPH radical scavenging activity (16.30–30.93%) than that of the control (14.74%). SWB might form a matrix barrier to hinder starch digestion, thus reducing the digestibility of cookies. The cookies enriched with 30–50% of the SWB exhibited greater physical properties and antioxidant capacity but lower starch digestibility than those of other cookies. The results will contribute to expanding the application range and improving the quality of bran-rich flour products.
Adding value to strawberry agro-industrial by-products through ultraviolet A-induced biofortification of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory phenolic compounds
Authors: Villamil-Galindo Esteban , Antunes-Ricardo Marilena , Piagentini Andrea Marcela , Jacobo-Velázquez Daniel A.
Published: December 2022

Background

The revalorization of agro-industrial by-products by applying ultraviolet A (UVA) radiation to biofortify with phenolic compounds has been studied in recent times, showing improvements in the individual and total phenolic content and their bioactivity. Therefore, the main aim of this work was to optimize the biofortification process of phenolic compounds by UVA radiation to strawberry agro-industrial by-products (RF). Moreover, the effect of UVA radiation on the potential biological activity of the phenolics accumulated in RF due to the treatment was also determined.

Methods

The assays followed a factorial design with three variables at three levels: UVA dose (LOW, MEDIUM, and HIGH), storage temperature (5, 10, and 15°C), and storage time (0, 24, 48, and 72 h). At each experimental condition, phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) and polyphenol oxidase (PPO) enzymatic activities, total phenolic compound content (TPC), phenolics profile (TPCHPLC), and agrimoniin content (AGN) were evaluated; and the optimal UVA dose, storage time, and temperature were determined. In vitro bioaccessibility of the accumulated phenolic compound was studied on RF tissue treated with UVA at optimal process conditions. The digested extracts were tested for antiproliferative activity in colorectal cancer cells, cellular antioxidant capacity, and anti-inflammatory activity.

Results

The results showed that applying UVA-HIGH (86.4 KJ/m2) treatment and storing the tissue for 46 h at 15°C increased PAL activity (260%), phenolic content (240%), and AGN (300%). The biofortification process improves the bioaccessibility of the main phenolic compound of RF by 9.8 to 25%. The digested optimum extract showed an IC50 for HT29 and Caco-2 cells of 2.73 and 5.43 μg/mL, respectively, and presented 60% cellular antioxidant capacity and 30% inhibition of NOX production.

Conclusion

The RF treated with UVA is an excellent source of phenolic compounds; specifically, ellagitannins and the UVA radiation proved to be efficient in biofortify RF, significantly improving the phenolic compounds content and their bioactive properties with adequate bioaccessibility, adding value to the strawberry agro-industrial by-products.
Extranodal natural killer/T-cell lymphoma invading a patient’s heart: A rare case report and literature review
Authors: Xiang Yifei , Lin Xueqin , Cai Xiaoling , Qu Shuang , Lin Kai-Yang
Published: December 2022

Extranodal NK/T-cell lymphoma (ENKTL) is a rare but aggressive subtype of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, which is derived from NK cells or T cells. There are very few cases of ENKTL invading the heart. Only 12 cases of ENKTL invading the heart have been reported in the English literature. Due to the rarity of this lymphoma, an effective therapeutic strategy has not been defined. Here, we present a case of a 51-year-old Chinese male with extranodal NK/T-cell lymphoma invading the heart and review the literature. The patient received a chemotherapy regimen of PD1 monoclonal antibody (Sintilimab) in combination with first-line P-Gemox. The patient survived for 2 months after diagnosis.
Modelling of immune response in chronic myeloid leukemia patients suggests potential for treatment reduction prior to cessation
Authors: Karg Elena , Baldow Christoph , Zerjatke Thomas , Clark Richard E. , Roeder Ingo , Fassoni Artur C. , Glauche Ingmar
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Discontinuation of tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) treatment is emerging as the main therapy goal for Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) patients. The DESTINY trial showed that TKI dose reduction prior to cessation can lead to an increased number of patients achieving sustained treatment free remission (TFR). However, there has been no systematic investigation to evaluate how dose reduction regimens can further improve the success of TKI stop trials.

Methods

Here, we apply an established mathematical model of CML therapy to investigate different TKI dose reduction schemes prior to therapy cessation and evaluate them with respect to the total amount of drug used and the expected TFR success.

Results

Our systematic analysis confirms clinical findings that the overall time of TKI treatment is a major determinant of TFR success, while highlighting that lower dose TKI treatment for the same duration is equally sufficient for many patients. Our results further suggest that a stepwise dose reduction prior to TKI cessation can increase the success rate of TFR, while substantially reducing the amount of administered TKI.

Discussion

Our findings illustrate the potential of dose reduction schemes prior to treatment cessation and suggest corresponding and clinically testable strategies that are applicable to many CML patients.
Can popular films instil carcinophobia? Images of cancer in popular Polish cinema
Authors: Domaradzki Jan
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Although cancer is currently considered a serious socio-medical challenge and health education in Poland has been positioned as a public health priority, the impact of popular culture on people’s ideas about cancer has been neglected. This study therefore aims to analyse the way popular Polish films portray cancer and the experience of cancer.

Material and Methods

Seven popular Polish films featuring cancer were analysed both quantitatively and qualitatively. The main categories included in the coding frame were disease, therapy, patient, physicians/oncologists and psychosocial issuses related to cancer.

Results

Polish films fail to provide the audience with basic information about the disease, its diagnoses and treatment and cancer is often represented as a mysterious disease with an unclear cause, an unpredictable and unsuccessful course of treatment, characterised by pain, suffering and inevitable death. Films may therefore instil carcinophobia. Since films accurately reflect problems of daily life faced by cancer patients and their families they have educational potential.

Conclusion

Although Polish films reinforce harmful stereotypes about cancer, its treatment, oncological institutions and specialists, cinema has the ability to raise the public’s and health professionals’ awareness regarding the psycho-social and emotional strains faced by cancer patients and the medical problems related to cancer.
VLDLR disturbs quiescence of breast cancer stem cells in a ligand-independent function
Authors: Yang Mengying , Zhan Yajing , Hou Zhijie , Wang Chunli , Fan Wenjun , Guo Tao , Li Zhuoshi , Fang Lei , Lv Shasha , Li Sisi , Gu Chundong , Ye Mingliang , Qin Hongqiang , Liu Quentin , Cui Xiaonan
Published: December 2022

Breast cancer stem cells are responsible for cancer initiation, progression, and drug resistance. However, effective targeting strategies against the cell subpopulation are still limited. Here, we unveil two splice variants of very-low-density lipoprotein receptor, VLDLR-I and -II, which are highly expressed in breast cancer stem cells. In breast cancer cells, VLDLR silencing suppresses sphere formation abilities in vitro and tumor growth in vivo. We find that VLDLR knockdown induces transition from self-renewal to quiescence. Surprisingly, ligand-binding activity is not involved in the cancer-promoting functions of VLDLR-I and -II. Proteomic analysis reveals that citrate cycle and ribosome biogenesis-related proteins are upregulated in VLDLR-I and -II overexpressed cells, suggesting that VLDLR dysregulation is associated with metabolic and anabolic regulation. Moreover, high expression of VLDLR in breast cancer tissues correlates with poor prognosis of patients. Collectively, these findings indicate that VLDLR may be an important therapeutic target for breast cancer treatment.
Trends in the contributions of atopic family history to pediatric food sensitization and allergy
Authors: Fang Heping , Ma Zhuoying , Chen Lin , Xian Ruoling , Wang Juan , Chen Jing , Li Haiqi , Hu Yan
Published: December 2022

Objective

Family history of atopic diseases (FHA) contributes to food allergy (FA). But little is known whether FHA primarily increases IgE–mediated, non–IgE–mediated FA, or both. And the trends in the contributions of FHA to food sensitization (FS) and FA remain unclear. We aim to clarify the associations among FHA, FS and FA and to understand the trends in the contributions of FHA to FS and FA.

Methods

We used chi–square test and mediating effect model to analyze the associations among FHA, FS and FA through comparisons between two cross–sectional investigations on FA in children under 2 years old in 2009 and 2019.

Results

In 2009 and 2019, the positive FHA proportion tended to be increasing without significance (28.9% to 31.6%, P = 0.39). Subgroup analysis showed the FS rate in FA group decreased significantly (37/39 to 44/62, P = 0.003). In 2009, the FS rate and FA prevalence were higher in FHA (+) group than in FHA (–) group (26% vs. 14.7%, P = 0.008 and 15% vs. 7.7%, P = 0.03), and FS had a complete mediating effect on the association between FHA and FA (Z = 2.54, P = 0.011), but the results lost significance in 2019.

Conclusions

The association between FHA and FA was completely mediated by FS, which means FHA mainly increases IgE–mediated FA. And the contributions of FHA to FS and FA tended to be stabilized or even diminished, which means FHA alone could no longer be enough to screen high–risk children.
Panax notoginseng preparation plus aspirin versus aspirin alone on platelet aggregation and coagulation in patients with coronary heart disease or ischemic stroke: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Dai Lulu , Zhang Ying , Jiang Yuerong , Chen Keji
Published: December 2022

Purpose: We aimed to evaluate the effects of Panax notoginseng preparations (PNP) containing Panax Notoginseng Saponins (PNS) or Panaxatriol Saponin (PTS) on platelet aggregation and coagulation in the adjuvant treatment of coronary heart disease (CHD) and ischemic stroke (IS).

Methods: Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the combination of PNP and aspirin (ASA) versus ASA alone for CHD or IS were searched in eight databases. Subgroup analysis was performed according to saponin category. When statistical heterogeneity was significant, sensitivity analysis was performed using the leave-one-out approach. Funnel plot, Egger’ test, and Begg’ test was adopted to detect publication bias.

Results: Twenty RCTs involving 2216 patients were analyzed. Compared with ASA alone, PNP plus ASA had a stronger inhibitory effect on in PAgR [PNS, WMD = −6.10 (−7.25, −4.95), p < 0.00001; PTS, WMD = −3.53 (−4.68, −2.38), p < 0.00001]; PNS plus ASA better reduced FIB [WMD = −0.43 (−0.49, −0.36)] and DD [WMD = −0.59 (−0.67, −0.51), p < 0.00001], while PLT (p = 0.07) and PT (p = 0.34) were not significantly different; PTS plus ASA better prolonged PT [WMD = 1.90 (1.47, 2.32), p < 0.00001] and PT-INR [WMD = 0.22 (0.11, 0.32), p < 0.0001], whereas no significant difference in DD (p = 0.1) and bleeding-related events (positive fecal occult blood, p = 0.96; upper gastrointestinal bleeding, p = 0.67; subcutaneous hemorrhage, p = 0.51; bulbar conjunctival hemorrhage, p = 0.51; hematuria, p = 0.58). There was no significant difference between PNP plus ASA and ASA alone in terms of gastrointestinal side effect (PNS, p = 0.65; PTS, p = 0.56) and urticaria (PNS, p = 0.57; PTS, p = 0.55).

Conclusion: PNP combined with ASA might produce stronger antiplatelet aggregation and anticoagulation effects without increasing bleeding risk, gastrointestinal side effects, and urticaria compared with ASA alone.

Systematic Review Registration:https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/#recordDetails, identifier CRD42022339234.
Effect of aspirin in patients with established asymptomatic carotid atherosclerosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Hu Xianjin , Hu Yao , Sun Xiankun , Li Ying , Zhu Ye
Published: December 2022

Background: Aspirin is widely used as an antiplatelet agent for secondary prevention in patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. However, it remains unclear whether aspirin can prevent the progression of carotid atherosclerosis or reduce vascular events and all-cause death.

Methods: We performed a meta-analysis of the effect of aspirin in asymptomatic carotid atherosclerotic patients. Electronic databases including Pubmed, EMBase, ISI Web, Medline, Cochrane, and clinicaltrial.gov were searched for relevant randomized controlled trials. A total of five studies (841 individuals, 2,145 person-years) were included in this study. Two reviewers independently performed the study assessment and data extraction. Forest plots were used to assess the efficacy of aspirin. Egger’s test was used to evaluate publication bias.

Results: Aspirin did not alleviate the progression of carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) compared with control patients (WMD: −0.05 mm, 95% confidence interval 95%CI: −0.12, 0.03). In subset analysis, aspirin was only associated with regression of cIMT when compared with the empty/placebo group (WMD: −0.10 mm, 95%CI: −0.18, −0.02). In type 2 diabetes mellitus, there were no statistical significance between groups (WMD: 0.10 mm, 95%CI: −0.31, 0.50). For the main vascular events and all-cause death, there were no differences between the aspirin group (RR: 0.73, 95%CI: 0.41, 1.31) and the control group (RR: 0.88, 95%CI: 0.41, 1.90). For outcome events, similar results were observed when patients were classified by different cIMT value (p > 0.05). The risk of gastrointestinal bleeding was similar between participants receiving and not receiving aspirin therapy (RR: 1.04, 95%CI: 0.07, 16.46).

Conclusion: In patients with asymptomatic carotid atherosclerosis, low-dose aspirin may slightly alleviate the progression of cIMT, but does not reduce vascular events and all-cause death.

Systematic Review Registration:https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, identifier PROSPERO
Spatial opinion dynamics incorporating both positive and negative influence in small-world networks
Authors: Okada Isamu , Okano Nozomi , Ishii Akira
Published: December 2022

When we consider tipping points of political and social opinions in groups, we often rely on a physics-based opinion dynamics approach. Despite the many studies on simple models, studies on more realistic situations have yet to be done. In this paper, we extend the basic model of opinion dynamics in two ways. The first extension incorporates negative influence between individuals. The second arranges individuals in a small-world network and fixes them in neighborhoods to consider their relationships. Our results show that a consensus tends to result with a higher positive trust ratio in the network, a denser network, and a milder degree of trust between individuals. In a real society, the development of consensus opinions depends on frequent communication, reliable people, and mild opinions. Moreover, we explore the conditions for merging the majority with a minority of individuals who are strongly connected. Our dense city model shows that the opinions of two parties connecting in dense interactions will gradually attract each other, and when a certain threshold is exceeded, those opinions will be integrated at once like a phase transition.
Influence of rapidly oscillating inspired O2 and N2 concentrations on pulmonary vascular function and lung fluid balance in healthy adults
Authors: Kelley Eli F. , Carlson Alex R. , Wentz Robert J. , Ziegler Briana L. , Johnson Bruce D.
Published: December 2022

Introduction: Aircrew may experience rapidly oscillating inspired O2/N2 ratios owing to fluctuations in the on-board oxygen delivery systems (OBOG). Recent investigations suggest these oscillations may contribute to the constellation of physiologic events in aircrew of high-performance aircraft. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine whether these “operationally-relevant” environmental challenges may cause decrements in measures of pulmonary vascular physiology.

Methods: Thirty healthy participants (Age: 29 ± 5 years) were recruited and assigned to one of the three exposures. Participants were instrumented for physiologic monitoring and underwent baseline cardiopulmonary physiology testing (ground level) consisting of a rebreathe method for quantifying pulmonary blood flow (Qc), pulmonary capillary blood volume (Vc) and alveolar–capillary conductance (Dm). Ultrasound was used to quantify “comet tails” (measure of lung fluid balance). After baseline testing, the participants had two 45 min exposures to an altitude of 8,000 ft where they breathed from gas mixtures alternating between 80/20 and 30/70 O2/N2 ratios at the required frequency (30 s, 60 s, or 120 s), separated by repeat baseline measure. Immediately and 45 min after the second exposure, baseline measures were repeated.

Results: We observed no changes in Qc, Dm or Vc during the 60 s exposures. In response to the 30 s oscillation exposure, there was a significantly reduced Qc and Vc at the post-testing period (p = 0.03). Additionally, exposure to the 120 s oscillations resulted in a significant decrease in Vc at the recovery testing period and an increase in the Dm/Vc ratio at both the post and recovery period (p < 0.01). Additionally, we observed no changes in the number of comet tails.

Conclusion: These data suggest “operationally-relevant” changes in inspired gas concentrations may cause an acute, albeit mild pulmonary vascular derecruitment, reduced distention and/or mild pulmonary-capillary vasoconstriction, without significant changes in lung fluid balance or respiratory gas exchange. The operational relevance remains less clear, particularly in the setting of additional environmental stressors common during flight (e.g., g forces).
Role of extracellular matrix components and structure in new renal models in vitro
Authors: Lacueva-Aparicio Alodia , Lindoso Rafael Soares , Mihăilă Silvia M. , Giménez Ignacio
Published: December 2022

The extracellular matrix (ECM), a complex set of fibrillar proteins and proteoglycans, supports the renal parenchyma and provides biomechanical and biochemical cues critical for spatial-temporal patterning of cell development and acquisition of specialized functions. As in vitro models progress towards biomimicry, more attention is paid to reproducing ECM-mediated stimuli. ECM’s role in in vitro models of renal function and disease used to investigate kidney injury and regeneration is discussed. Availability, affordability, and lot-to-lot consistency are the main factors determining the selection of materials to recreate ECM in vitro. While simpler components can be synthesized in vitro, others must be isolated from animal or human tissues, either as single isolated components or as complex mixtures, such as Matrigel or decellularized formulations. Synthetic polymeric materials with dynamic and instructive capacities are also being explored for cell mechanical support to overcome the issues with natural products. ECM components can be used as simple 2D coatings or complex 3D scaffolds combining natural and synthetic materials. The goal is to recreate the biochemical signals provided by glycosaminoglycans and other signaling molecules, together with the stiffness, elasticity, segmentation, and dimensionality of the original kidney tissue, to support the specialized functions of glomerular, tubular, and vascular compartments. ECM mimicking also plays a central role in recent developments aiming to reproduce renal tissue in vitro or even in therapeutical strategies to regenerate renal function. Bioprinting of renal tubules, recellularization of kidney ECM scaffolds, and development of kidney organoids are examples. Future solutions will probably combine these technologies.
Cross-lagged relationship between home numeracy practices and early mathematical skills among Chinese young children
Authors: Wei Wei , Wang Qi-Yi , Luo Qin , Li Yan
Published: December 2022

The present study examined the cross-lagged relationship between home numeracy practices (e.g., formal teaching, number games, and number application) and early mathematical skills (basic number processing, and arithmetic skills) among Chinese young children. A total of 155 children (82 boys; mean age = 67.49 months, SD = 3.58 months) were assessed with basic number processing and arithmetic skills at three timepoints during the kindergarten year, and their parents reported the frequency of parent–child numeracy activities. Main results from random-intercept cross-lagged panel models showed that, at the within-family level, earlier basic teaching activities uniquely predicted subsequent basic number processing, while both advanced teaching activities and number game activities at earlier timepoints predicted the following arithmetic skills. These results indicated a unidirectional effect from home numeracy practices on early mathematical skills during the early years.
Analysis of the cognitive processes involved in creating and sustaining cooperative group activity
Authors: Skau Simon
Published: December 2022

A cooperative group activity (CGA) and shared intentionality are two phenomena whereby two or more individuals engage in an activity with the intention that the group will succeed, that is, to act as a “we. ” This ability to act together as a “we” is an important human psychological feature and has been argued to demarcate an important developmental step. Many CGA and shared intentionality theories have centered around philosophical problems of what counts as a “we” and how to give a cognitively plausible account of children's engagement in such activities, e.g., pretend play by toddlers. The aims of this paper are (i) to highlight the importance of distinguishing between creating and sustaining a CGA, since they require different cognitive abilities, (ii) to give a cognitively plausible account of the creation of a CGA, and iii) to present a formal framework of the sustainability of a CGA that can illuminate how engagement in a CGA stimulates cognitive change in its members. In the first part (section Creating cooperative group activity) of the paper, several theoretical problems are discussed, including thecommon knowledge problem, the jointness problem, the central problem, and thecognitively plausible explanation problem. The section ends with a cognitively plausible account of the creation of a CGA. The second part (section Sustainability of cooperative group activity) of the paper presents a formal framework of belief compatibility and trust relations. It explores how engagement in a CGA places certain cognitive constraints on its members while stimulating cognitive change and development. The paper ends with a discussion of empirical postulations derived from this account.
Promoting caregiver involvement at the public library: An evaluation of a math and science storytime program for young children
Authors: Gaias Larissa , Taylor Michelle , Pratt Megan E. , Whelan Mariko
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Public libraries are asset institutions that provide important spaces for families to engage in meaningful, authentic STEM learning. However, limited budgets and a model centered on open-access and broad inclusion makes conducting rigorous evaluations in these spaces, such as randomized control trials, challenging. There is a need to consider evaluation designs that consider both rigor and feasibility. The aims of the present study were to: (1) describe an innovative interactive parent–child interactive storytime program, Fun with Math and Science (FMS); and (2) conduct a preliminary evaluation of FMS in a large, urban public library setting, using a quasi-experimental static group comparison design.

Methods and Results

Post-test scores for caregivers who completed the program in the fall or winter (n = 80) were compared to pre-test scores for caregivers who completed the program the following spring (n = 35); Fall/winter caregivers scored higher on program items related to concrete behaviors to support math and science learning, but significant differences were not found on items related to caregiving beliefs or general caregiving practices. Demographic differences were also found related to program outcomes.

Discussion

Results are discussed both in terms of implications for the development and implementation of caregiver-child interactive programming, as well as the use of innovative analytic approaches to program evaluation in community settings.
How nostalgic taste on the screen stimulates the consumption of time-honoured restaurants: The mediation role of parasocial interaction
Authors: Yang Jian , Tang Jianle , Zhang Lingmin
Published: December 2022

As a unique cultural asset, time-honoured restaurants carry the crystallisation of traditional cuisine and the spirit of artisanship with an inestimable value. Nostalgia is a characteristic element of time-honoured restaurants and the central theme of their online marketing. However, few studies have examined the effect of nostalgia evoked in bloggers’ content on consumer behaviour in the context of time-honoured restaurants. To fill this gap, this study employed the SOR model as an underpinning theory and selected parasocial interaction among bloggers and viewers as a mediation to examine how the nostalgic taste on the screen affected behavioural intention towards time-honoured restaurants. Emotional involvement and credibility were also added as variables to enrich the research framework from cognitive and affective perspectives. A PLS-SEM approach was used to analyse the research models, including evaluating the measurement and structure models. The result, tested by the online survey data from 319 valid responses, demonstrated that nostalgia evoked in bloggers’ content can directly facilitate parasocial interaction or indirectly through credibility and emotional involvement, finally resulting in behavioural intention. The fully mediating role of parasocial interaction between emotional involvement and behavioural intention was also confirmed. The findings of this study offer theoretical and practical implications, highlighting the critical roles of nostalgia and parasocial interaction in the mechanism that online stimulus influences realistic behavioural intention, and therefore exploring a way forward for time-honoured restaurant marketing that fits in with the online media age.
Increased both cortical activation and functional connectivity after transcranial direct current stimulation in patients with post-stroke: A functional near-infrared spectroscopy study
Authors: Yang Caihong , Zhang Tingyu , Huang Kaiqi , Xiong Menghui , Liu Huiyu , Wang Pu , Zhang Yan
Published: December 2022

Background

Previous studies have shown that cognitive impairment is common after stroke. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a promising tool for rehabilitating cognitive impairment. This study aimed to investigate the effects of tDCS on the rehabilitation of cognitive impairment in patients with stroke.

Methods

Twenty-two mild–moderate post-stroke patients with cognitive impairments were treated with 14 tDCS sessions. A total of 14 healthy individuals were included in the control group. Cognitive function was assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). Cortical activation was assessed using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) during the verbal fluency task (VFT).

Results

The cognitive function of patients with stroke, as assessed by the MMSE and MoCA scores, was lower than that of healthy individuals but improved after tDCS. The cortical activation of patients with stroke was lower than that of healthy individuals in the left superior temporal cortex (lSTC), right superior temporal cortex (rSTC), right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (rDLPFC), right ventrolateral prefrontal cortex (rVLPFC), and left ventrolateral prefrontal cortex (lVLPFC) cortical regions. Cortical activation increased in the lSTC cortex after tDCS. The functional connectivity (FC) between the cerebral hemispheres of patients with stroke was lower than that of healthy individuals but increased after tDCS.

Conclusion

The cognitive and brain functions of patients with mild-to-moderate stroke were damaged but recovered to a degree after tDCS. Increased cortical activation and increased FC between the bilateral cerebral hemispheres measured by fNIRS are promising biomarkers to assess the effectiveness of tDCS in stroke.
Traffic-related air pollution is a risk factor in the development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Zheng Jinzhen , Liu Sha , Peng Jieqi , Peng Huanhuan , Wang Zihui , Deng Zhishan , Li Chenglong , Li Naijian , Tang Longhui , Xu Jianwu , Li Jingwen , Li Bing , Zhou Yumin , Ran Pixin
Published: December 2022

Background

Outdoor traffic-related air pollution has negative effects on respiratory health. In this study, we aimed to explore the effect of outdoor traffic-related air pollution on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in Guangzhou.

Methods

We enrolled 1,460 residents aged 40 years or older between 21 January 2014 and 31 January 2018. We administered questionnaires and spirometry tests. The distance of participants' residences or locations of outdoor activities from busy roads (as indicators of outdoor traffic-related air pollution), indoor air pollution, and smoking history were queried in the questionnaires.

Results

Of the 1,460 residents with valid survey and test results, 292 were diagnosed with COPD, with a detection rate of 20%. Participants who lived and did their outdoor activities near busy roads had a higher detection rate of COPD. Among residents living at distances of <50 meters, 50–199 meters, and more than 200 meters from busy roads, the detection rates were 20.6, 21.2, and 14.8%, respectively; the rates for outdoor activities at these distances were 23.8, 24.5, and 13.7%, respectively (p < 0.05). After adjusting for sex, age, smoking status, family history, and smoking index, the distance of outdoor activities from busy roads was an independent risk factor for COPD. Participants whose outdoor activities were conducted <50 meters and 50–199 meters of main roads had odds ratios of 1.54 (95% confidence interval 1.01–2.36) and 1.84 (95% interval 1.23–2.76) for the risk of COPD in comparison with a distance of more than 200 meters from busy roads.

Conclusions

Residents of Guangzhou whose outdoor activities were close to busy roads had a high risk of COPD. Traffic-related air pollution presents a risk to human health and a risk of COPD.