Online Databases Research Articles

Analysis of the kinematic pattern of free throw by wheelchair basketball athletes: a systematic review

Athletes are stratified into classes that range from 1.0 to 4.5 points subdivided at intervals of 0.5 points in the Wheelchair Basketball (WCB) modality. The discussion regarding the non-utilization of quantitative data based on functional classification (FC) in WCB has become considerably important for research due to its impact on athletes’ careers. The aim of this systematic review was to verify the kinematic patterns of the free throw performed by WCB athletes of distinct FC. After researching four online databases, only 7 out of 68 studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria. High-class players (classes 3.0 – 4.5) presented a throw pattern, with a greater angle on the shoulder joint, on the angular speed of the wrist, and the height of the ball throw; low-class athletes (classes 1.0 – 2.5) exhibited a pushing pattern, with greater speed and throw angles, greater angular speed at the shoulder and elbow joints. Thus, inter-individual differences allow for the stratification of players into distinct classes and serve as relevant tools for increasing accuracy and performance despite different disabilities. Further studies are necessary to explore the associated patterns for each FC.

Diagnosis of carbon monoxide exposure in clinical research and practice: A scoping review.

To undertake a scoping review to identify methods and diagnostic levels used in determining unintentional, non-fire related carbon monoxide exposure. Online databases and grey literature were searched from 1946 to 2023 identifying 80 papers where carbon monoxide levels were reported. 80 papers were included; 71 research studies and 9 clinical guidelines. Four methods were described: blood carboxyhaemoglobin (arterial or venous blood analysis), carbon monoxide oximetry (SpO2), expired carbon monoxide, and ambient carbon monoxide sampling. Blood analysis methods predominated (60.0% of the papers). Multiple methods of measurement were used in 26 (32.5%) of the papers. Diagnostic levels for carboxyhaemoglobin were described in 54 (67.5%) papers, ranging between 2% and 15%. 26 (32.5%) papers reported diagnostic levels that were adjusted for the smoking status of the patient. Four methods were found for use in different settings. Variability in diagnostic thresholds impairs diagnostic accuracy. Agreement on standardised diagnostic levels is required to enable consistent diagnosis of unintentional, non-fire related carbon monoxide exposure.

Efficacy and safety of premixed versus basal-bolus regimens as intensification of insulin therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.

To estimate the efficacy and safety of the basal-bolus and premixed insulin as intensification regimens in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). A comprehensive search of online databases was performed until December 2022 to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing premixed insulin versus basal-bolus regimen with treat-to-target intention. The Cochrane ROB-2 tool and GRADE approach were used for quality assessment and certainty of the evidence, respectively. Pooled weighted mean difference (WMD) and odds ratio (OR) were calculated using random-effects meta-analysis models. Eighteen RCTs were included in the meta-analysis, and 66% had a low risk of bias. We found no significant difference between the two regimens regarding HbA1c reduction (WMD: 0.03% [-0.05%, 0.10%]). The basal-bolus regimen improved fasting plasma glucose (FPG) more than the premixed regimen (WMD: 6.35 mg/dL [0.31, 12.39]). Both had similar effects on weight gain. The odds of developing overall, nocturnal, and severe hypoglycemia were comparable (pooled OR: 0.9, 1.02, and 1.00, respectively) with no heterogeneity. Findings of the model were robust. The certainty of the evidence was moderate to high for all outcomes except FPG. Two regimens are clinically comparable. Patient preference should be considered when adopting an individualized approach in a real-world setting.

Nurturing an empathic mindset in human–computer interaction education: an integrative review of empathy enhancement strategies

ABSTRACT This study involved an integrative literature review of successful empathy training methods in higher education to provide a compressive understanding of effective empathy training strategies for human–computer interaction (HCI). The initial keyword search using six online databases found 1,384 articles published from January 2010 to July 2020, and 16 studies met the inclusion criteria. Four types of intervention emerged as effective in fostering empathy across disciplines: reflective projects, scenario-based learning, hands-on practices, and multi-media storytelling. This study categorised the significant impacts of interventions into four themes: looking into one’s own empathic mindset, walking into real-world issues, practising better communication, and inspiring prosocial motivation. All of these themes effectively amplified cognitive and affective empathy, with successful cases of empathy-focused content. Based on the findings, this review offers pedagogical implications for HCI education.

The potential role of neoadjuvant treatment in thyroid cancers in the era of kinase inhibitors: a narrative review.

To analyse the literature on the potential role of kinase inhibitors (KI) as neoadjuvant treatment (NAT) in all thyroid cancers (TC). Online databases were systematically examined, including MEDLINE (via PubMed) Embase, ISI Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Scopus. As many papers were published before the classification of TC was revised, our search was conducted as follows: NAT in TC, NAT in papillary thyroid cancer (PTC), NAT in follicular thyroid cancer (FTC), NAT in anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC), and NAT in medullary thyroid cancer (MTC). The search revealed 21 single case reports and three small series on NAT in TC. Overall, 32 cases were found: 24 follicular cell derived cancers (FCDC) of which nine were ATC, eight were MTC. We also found four major retrospective series, in two of which the cohort was divided and analysed into different groups according to the kind of treatment. In these four series, NAT was performed in in a total of 99 patients (32 FCDC, 60 ATC, and 7 MTC). While awaiting large-scale clinical trials, the literature highlights that NAT may be an option for locally advanced TC (and above all ATC) when surgery may be too destructive or when the tumour is inoperable. The use of NAT should be discussed with the patient. An R0 or at least an R1 should be the goal of NAT, and the molecular profile should be performed as rapidly as possible.

The associations of obesity with demographic and lifestyle factors among Hong Kong adults.

Background: Obesity is a risk factor for leading causes of death. Aim: This study investigated the associations of obesity with demographic and lifestyle factors among adults aged 18-64 in Hong Kong. Methods: The study uses data (n = 24,855) from the government online database. It uses T-tests to compare mean values for body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, and weight-to-height ratio obese; analysis of variance for not-obese, BMI-obese-only, central-obese, and BMI + central-obese; Pearson chi-square tests for categorical variables; and multinomial logistic regression to obtain the odd ratios. It uses IBM SPSS version 26 to conduct all analyses, and at a 95% confidence level. Results: The analyses show that the risks of central-obese, and BMI + central-obese increase by 4%, and 4%/year of age, respectively. Females have 60%, 38%, and 60% lower risks of BMI-obese-only, central-obese, and BMI + central-obese, respectively, and people with tertiary education have 28%, 20%, and 20% lower risks, respectively. Employed people have a 40% higher risk of BMI-obese-only when compared with the unemployed; students have a 46% lower risk of BMI + central-obese and home-makers have a 38% higher risk. The risk of central-obese decreases by 14%/10 min/day of moderate physical activity, but could be different among females, and vigorous physical activity yielded mixed results. The risk of BMI + central-obese decreases by 9%/day/week of vegetable intake. Conclusions: Obesity is associated with multiple demographic and lifestyle factors. Keep doing vigorous and moderate physical activity but state alert to obesity risk factors, and frequent vegetable intake are recommended. Lifelong learning and continuing education could be an effective strategy to combat obesity.

National Survey on Corneal Transplantation in Japan.

To report the results of a national survey on corneal transplantation in Japan. The Japan Cornea Society conducted a national survey on corneal transplantation performed from 2017 to 2019. Data from various institutions were collected through an online database and subsequently analyzed. In total, 4951 cases from 44 facilities were documented. The leading cause of corneal transplantation was corneal edema (CE), which accounted for 39.3% of cases, followed by repeat keratoplasty at 27.7%. Among CE cases, postcataract surgery was the most prevalent (25.1%), followed by postglaucoma surgery (20.8%) and laser iridotomy-induced CE (18.2%). Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy was the fourth most common cause (10.9%). Regarding surgical methods, Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty was the most common, used in 41.3% of procedures, followed by penetrating keratoplasty at 37.1%. Deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty and Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty were used in 8.1% and 2.6% of cases, respectively. One year after transplantation, graft clarity was maintained in 80.5% of cases, and regrafting was necessary in 15.2% of instances. The national survey reveals that CE is the most frequent indication for corneal transplantation in Japan. Increases in cases from glaucoma surgery and Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy were noted among patients with CE. Endothelial keratoplasty, especially Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty, is now the preferred surgical technique for these transplants.

Concept of Nidra - A Review Article

Introduction: Nidra (sleep) is very essential for our body and mind. Proper sleep is useful for maintaining physical and mental well-being. It is considered one of the three sub-pillars of life (Trayopasthambha) along with diet and celibacy. Acharya Charaka says, when Manas (mind) along with Atma (soul) become tired (exhausted / inactive) and Karmatamanaha/Indriyas (sense organs) are withdrawn from their Viṣayas (objects of sense organs) then man gets sleep. Objectives of the study: Provide a comprehensive overview study of Nidra (sleep) and review the role of Nidra (sleep) in maintaining the health. Materials and Methods: Complete review of Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtang Sangrah, Ashtang Hridaya, Sharangadhara Samhita and other existing literature on published articles and online databases are referred about concerned topic, analysis of role of Nidra and importance in maintain of health was accessed. Conclusion: The review study observed that “Proper sleep helps numerous benefits for our overall health and wellbeing like-growth and development of body, Happy status of mind, nourishment of body, strength of body, virility, knowledge, and life” are the gifts of sleep.

A Comprehensive Systematic Review of Risk Factor and Management Approach of Gout Arthritis in General Practice

Background: Gout arthritis is a chronic inflammatory joint disease caused by the accumulation of monosodium urate (MSU) crystals. The main factor that triggers the formation of MSU crystals is high serum uric acid levels (hyperuricemia). This systematic review aims to identify and analyze the risk factors, management, and prevention of gout arthritis based on literature published in the last ten years. Methods: This study followed the PRISMA 2020 standard, examining English-language literature from 2015 to 2025. This study excluded editorials, reviews from the same journal, and submissions without DOI. PubMed, SagePub, SpringerLink, and Google Scholar were used as literature sources. Results: Initially obtaining 360 articles from online databases (PubMed, SagePub, SpringerLink, and Google Scholar), eight relevant papers were selected after three rounds of screening for full-text analysis. Conclusions: Treatment of gouty arthritis is done through a combination of pharmacological therapy and lifestyle changes. Prevention involves managing risk factors such as hypertension, obesity, and alcohol consumption. Education and appropriate long-term treatment can reduce attacks and improve the patient's quality of life.

The association between the oral microbiome and hypertension: a systematic review

ABSTRACT Background This study systematically reviewed the available evidence regarding the potential association between oral microbiota and hypertension. Methods A comprehensive search of online databases was conducted by two independent investigators for all relevant articles. All observational studies that assessed the association between oral microbiota and hypertension were included. Quality appraisal was conducted using the NOS tool. Results A total of 17 studies comprising 6007 subjects were included. The studies varied with respect to sample type and microbial analysis method. All studies, except one, found significant differences in microbial composition between hypertensive and normotensive subjects. However, there were substantial inconsistencies regarding the specific differences identified. Still, a few taxa were repeatedly found enriched in hypertension including Aggregatibacter, Kingella, Lautropia, and Leptotrachia besides the red complex periodontal pathogens. When considering only studies that controlled for false discovery rates and confounders, Atopobium, Prevotella, and Veillonella were identified as consistently associated with hypertension. Conclusion There are significant differences in the oral microbiome between hypertensive and normotensive subjects. Despite the heterogeneity between the included studies, a subset of microbial taxa seems to be consistently enriched in hypertension. Further studies are highly recommended to explore this association. Registration PROSPERO database (ID: CRD42023495005).

LITERATURE REVIEW: PREJUDICE TERHADAP K-POPERS DI INDONESIA

In Indonesia, the growth rate of kpop is very rapid, notinfrequently boy band and girl band fans often have negativeassumptions from society. Where it tends to be viewednegatively and stereotyped as a fanatic, obsessive, hysterical,crazy, and consumptive figure. Based on previous research, noone has explained the background of the phenomenon ofpeople's views on kpopers specifically. Therefore, thisresearcher aims to find out how prejudice against kpopers inIndonesian society can arise and find out how to reduce theprejudice. The research method used is the literature studymethod. Literature searches are carried out by accessingelectronic databases online from Pubmed, Google Scholar,science direct, and other reading sources. for the selection ofjournals the author tries to classify based on the last 10 years,and the suitability of the information needed. So that the totalliterature that the author uses is 8 scientific literature consistingof books and journals. Based on the results of 8 literatureobtained information about the definition of prejudice, thesource of prejudice and how to reduce prejudice. It can beconcluded that prejudice is part of the affective or emotionalcomponent that forms a negative attitude or form of Intergrouprelations. Prejudice itself is always closely related toStereotypes and also Discrimination. Then in overcoming orreducing prejudice can be done by increasing contact fromother groups, building cooperation and interdependence,shifting stereotypes on groups with an exception, providingmulticultural education.

Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) associated with the use of antiseizure medications-An overview of clinical data.

The United States Food and Drug Administration (US FDA) released a warning regarding Drug Reactions with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS) linked to the use of antiseizure drugs, including levetiracetam and clobazam, on November 28, 2023. Hence, our review focuses on DRESS associated with the use of antiseizure drugs, including Levetiracetam, Clobazam, Carbamazepine, Phenytoin, Phenobarbital, Valproate, Oxcarbazepine, and Lamotrigine. The online databases, such as Medline/Pubmed/PMC, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Science Direct, Ebsco, Embase, and reference lists, were searched for relevant publications. Several case reports and reviews of pharmacovigilance data by different regulatory bodies were published regarding DRESS associated with antiseizure drugs. Management strategies for DRESS may include immediate discontinuation of offending medication, administration of systemic corticosteroids, and administration of cyclosporine and intravenous immunoglobulin in cases that are not responding to systemic corticosteroids. Early detection and treatment of DRESS by healthcare professionals is necessary to lower mortality and improve outcomes. The US FDA advises healthcare professionals to be aware of the connection between DRESS and specific antiseizure medications. Patients should be informed by medical professionals about the symptoms and signs of DRESS as well as the risks associated with it. In conclusion, DRESS syndrome, though rare, is a serious hypersensitivity reaction linked to antiseizure drugs like levetiracetam and clobazam. Early detection and discontinuation of the offending drug, coupled with systemic corticosteroids, are essential for effective management. Healthcare professionals must be vigilant in identifying DRESS to reduce mortality and improve patient outcomes.

Screening of Natural Compounds as Inhibitor of Mpro SARS-CoV-2 Protein; A Molecular Dynamics Approach.

New strains of SARS-CoV-2 are continually emerging worldwide. Recently, WHO warned of a severe new wave in Europe. Current vaccines cannot fully prevent reinfection in vaccinated individuals. Given this issue, recent research focuses on new antiviral candidates with high efficacy and minimal side effects. Screen natural compounds as inhibitors of Mpro SARS-CoV-2 protein using molecular dynamics. In this study, we have screened the potential of plant-based natural anti-viral compounds. A library of the 579 compounds was generated using currently available literature and online databases. All these compounds were screened based on their binding affinities as predicted by molecular docking analysis and compounds having binding affinity values ≤ -10 Kcal/mol were considered for analysis. Furthermore, from physicochemical assessment, drug-likeness initially nine compounds were identified as the antiviral targets for the selected viral proteins. After ADMET analysis and simulations, the compound 9064 with the lowest RMSD, Coul-SR interaction energy (-71.53 kJ/mol), and LJ-SR energy (-95.32 kJ/mol) was selected as the most stable drug candidate against COVID-19 main protease Mpro. The ΔG value, calculated using MMGBSA also revealed strong binding of the compound with Mpro. The selected antiviral compound 9064 is an antioxidant flavonoid (Catechin or Cianidanol), which was previously known to have significant immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Considering the limitations of currently available vaccines, our study may provide new insight into potential drugs that may prevent SARS-CoV-2 infection in humans.

GNLY as a novel cis-eQTL and cis-pQTL mediated susceptibility gene in suppressing prostatitis. Mendelian randomization study

BackgroundProstatitis is characterized by high prevalence, low cure rates, and frequent recurrences, and remains one of the most clinically challenging problems. Hence, in this article, we first integrated Mendelian randomization (MR) with expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) and protein quantitative trait loci (pQTL) data to identify novel therapeutic targets and their potential metabolic mechanisms for prostatitis. MethodsProstatitis-related genetic data, eQTLs, pQTLs, and 1,400 metabolites were downloaded from online databases. MR, or summary data-based MR (SMR) analyses were applied to assess the potential causal relationships between exposures and predicted outcomes. Sensitivity analysis was conducted using pleiotropy, heterogeneity, and leave-one-out analysis to evaluate the robustness of our results. ResultsBased on our results, we first identified and validated GNLY as a novel cis-eQTL and cis-pQTL-mediated susceptibility gene for reducing prostatitis risk in five independent datasets (one discovery dataset and four validation datasets) (all p <0.05). Meanwhile, we also found that the GNLY eQTL could increase the metabolite of sphingomyelin level (d18:0/20:0, d16:0/22:0) risks (p <0.05), and the metabolite of sphingomyelin level (d18:0/20:0, d16:0/22:0) could reduce the risk of prostatitis (p <0.05). According to the above-mentioned relationships, we finally revealed the potential metabolic mechanism of GNLY eQTL in suppressing prostatitis via regulating the metabolite of sphingomyelin level (d18:0/20:0, d16:0/22:0). ConclusionsWe successfully identified GNLY as a novel cis-eQTL and cis-pQTL-mediated susceptibility gene in suppressing prostatitis and its potential metabolic mechanism via regulating sphingomyelin (d18:0/20:0, d16:0/22:0) levels, providing a novel therapeutic target and paving the way for future GNLY-related studies in prostatitis.

Evaluating the clinical benefits of anti-cancer drugs approved by Food and Drug Administration for gastrointestinal neoplasms for the past two decades.

820 Background: The number of FDA-approved anticancer drugs have increased in recent years with a more use of surrogate endpoints. However, it is unclear whether the same trend applies to GI cancers. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the trend in FDA-approved GI cancer drugs over the past two decades and the associated clinical benefit. Methods: The FDA’s online database was searched for drugs approved for GI cancers from 2006 until 2024. Primary and secondary endpoints along with trial characteristics were extracted. ESMO Magnitude of Clinical Benefit Scale (ESMO-MCBS) was assessed by two blinded investigators with a third resolving disagreements. We divided the study into period A (01/2006-12/2014) and period B (01/2015-08/2024). Results: Since 2006, FDA approved 62 regimens for GI cancer based on 70 trials, mostly (n= 45;72.6%) in period B. Most trials (n=44) were phase III with only 26 phase II: 22 single arm, and 4 randomized. All the 22 single-arm phase II trials were approved in period B with two randomized phase II trials approved in each period. Approvals based on phase III trials dropped by 33.5% (from n=15 to n=29) between the two periods. Half (n=34) of the approvals were based on overall survival (OS) benefit, while the use of objective response rate (ORR) as an endpoint has increased from 11.8% (n=2) in period A to 45.3% (n=24) in period B. Quality of life (QoL) was assessed only in 27% of the studies and found benefit only in 22.7%. The mean gain in OS was similar across both periods; 2.3 months [1.2-4.7]. Out of the 19 accelerated approvals, 17 were in period B, of which 23% (4/17) were based on secondary endpoint, 18% (3/17) were withdrawn, and 59% (10/17) received full approval. Substantial clinical benefit (ESMO score 4-5) was seen in 11.8% of the trials in period A and 19.6% in period B, with 17.4% overall from 2006-2024. Conclusions: Despite rising FDA approvals for GI cancer drugs since 2006, only 17.4% demonstrated substantial clinical benefit based on ESMO-MCBS. Recent approvals rely more on single-arm phase II studies and ORR, often without OS or QoL benefit. These trends underscore the need for more rigorous clinical trials that prioritize meaningful endpoint to ensure that new therapies provide real clinical value to the patient.

Nature, prevalence and determinants of mental health problems experienced by adolescents in south Asia: a systematic review.

Adolescence is a sensitive phase of human development where individuals, aged 10-19 years, are particularly vulnerable to developing mental health problems (MHPs). South Asia, home to 24% of the world's population, is mostly comprised of low- and middle-income countries (LMIC). Most of the world's young people live in LMICs. This systematic review aims to assess the available evidence on the nature, prevalence and determinants of MHPs experienced by adolescents in south Asia. Following PRISMA guidelines, searches were conducted in four online databases (Ovid Medline, Ovid EMBASE, Ovid Global Health, Ovid PsycInfo), titles, abstracts, and full-texts were screened, data extracted and quality assessed. Extracted data were categorised into school-based studies (SBS) and non-school-based studies (NSBS). Data were further stratified according to country, MHPs and narratively synthesised. Of the 5847 records identified in the searches, 117 met inclusion criteria. Most (n=87) were SBS. Key MHPs reported across countries include anxiety disorders and depression. Wide ranges of prevalence rates were reported for anxiety in Indian SBS (1.5-81.6%) and NSBS (1.8-88.1%), and for depression, Pakistani SBS (21-79%) and Indian NSBS (0.4-98.5%). Determinants include individual characteristics; violent victimisation; poor family/home/school environment/peer relationships; already experiencing MHPs and substance use/abuse. Increased physical activity, adequate nutrition, safe/positive homes/family environment, being unmarried females, higher maternal education, peer support/friendship, higher education level and engaging in extra-curricular activities were protective of mental well-being. Prevalence of MHPs among south Asian adolescents appears high. Determinants include social, cultural, environmental and socioeconomic factors often beyond individual control. Mental health policies and programs and research appropriate to the cultural context, that address social determinants of MHPs and evidence gaps, are needed to tackle the significant mental health burden among south Asian adolescents. Authors CM and MW are supported by a Monash University Research Training Program Scholarship. JF is supported by the Finkel Professorial Fellowship funded by the Finkel Family Foundation.

Challenges and Innovations in Minimally Invasive Surgery for Pediatric Patients in Africa: A Comprehensive Review

ABSTRACTBackgroundMinimally invasive surgery (MIS) has proven to be a successful, developing improvement in surgical practice. Allowing surgeons to operate with minimal incisions, ensures the completion of such procedures with minimal damage to the patient and provides recovery in a shorter time. The use of MIS in the pediatric population has also been growing with the increased involvement of surgeons in the evaluation of training and expertise. In Africa, however, the growth of MIS in the pediatric population faces some obstacles which are in research and innovation, cost, and affordability. Additionally, to the scarcity of resources, the limited number of pediatric surgeons available leads to a substantial workload that affects the quality of care. This paper aims to evaluate the challenges facing MIS in Africa and assess its potential in the future.MethodsData were collected through online databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, Ovid MEDLINE, and Embase. The research team reviewed all relevant articles regarding MIS in Africa and pediatrics.ResultsThe utilization of MIS in the pediatric population in Africa faces some major challenges. In addition to the limited resources, there is a significantly disproportionate number of physicians per population, and the training received by pediatric surgeons rarely incorporates minimally invasive techniques. This leaves a lot of work to be done to allow better access to MIS on the African continent. The recent advances by Africans in minimally invasive and endoscopic surgical training programs, as well as the establishment of minimally invasive centers, show great promise in the attempt to increase the utilization of MIS in Africa.ConclusionsThe work done to grow the field of MIS application in Africa is commendable, but efforts need to be strengthened and focus needs to be given to ensure the sustainability of these programs. Furthermore, the work accomplished by countries like Egypt, Senegal, and Nigeria will serve as a huge teaching point to increase the technical expertise of surgeons in the region.

A systematic review of the relationship between gut microbiota and prevalence of pancreatic diseases.

Acute pancreatitis (AP) represents one of the most common gastrointestinal (GI) diseases; it can manifest in varying degrees of severity, sometimes leading to a life-threatening condition for the patient. Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), due to its high malignancy and uncertain prognosis, is widely regarded as one of the most fatal diseases. The increasing prevalence of AP and PDAC represents a major burden on public health and the healthcare system worldwide. The aim of this systematic review was to discuss the current state of knowledge regarding the relationship between the gut microbiota and the incidence, prognosis, diagnosis and treatment of AP and PDAC. To identify studies that analyzed the relationship between the gut microbiota and the occurrence/development of pancreatic diseases or PDAC, the online databases PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar were searched between November 2023 and January 2024. Finally, 14 publications met the inclusion criteria (1. were conducted exclusively in humans and/or animals; 2. original, published in English in peer-reviewed journals after 2019; 3. described the relationship between gut microbiota and the occurrence of AP or PDAC). The collected studies indicated significant changes in the gut microbiota of patients with AP and PDAC. Moreover, they highlighted the presence of a relationship between the gut microbiota and the occurrence, course, treatment efficiency and prognosis of the disease in question. Further research is needed to understand precisely the relationship between the gut microbiota and the occurrence of pancreatic diseases and whether it may be a starting point for the development of modern forms of therapy based on the use of prebiotics and/or diet to restore the normal composition of the intestinal bacteria.

Characteristics of the distribution of minerals among the space groups

Abstract The RRUFF online database (a project by Robert Downs, University of Arizona) catalogs the occurrence of point and space group symmetries of over 4800 of the nearly 6000 currently accepted mineral species. Of these, over 90% are monomorphic, while the remaining species have been recognized to be polymorphic. To avoid issues of reliability and inconsistency of characterization, the 4499 monomorphic minerals are the subject of this analysis. It has long been recognized that minerals are non-uniformly distributed among the space groups as well as their corresponding point groups and crystal systems. However, this non-uniformity is not non-systematic. A random distribution of minerals among the space groups would result in an average of about 20 species per group. In fact, the observed distribution of minerals is highly skewed. Analysis of the frequency distribution of minerals among the space groups reveals three distinct populations: those without currently known monomorphic species (52), those sparsely populated by minerals that exhibit an exponential distribution of species abundances (170), and those most populous space groups (8) that are differentiated from the others by an inflection in the slope of the species frequency distribution. Additionally, a series of relationships have been identified, and they collectively characterize crystallographic controls on and resultant distributions of mineral occurrence. First, there is a strong preference across all crystal systems for minerals to exhibit structures associated with the holohedral space groups relative to those pedial groups of the lowest symmetry. Second, mineral species exhibit a strong preference for the Laue class space groups over their paired Sohncke groups. Furthermore, it is recognized that the space groups that make up the 11 enantiomorphic pairs are either sparsely populated or devoid of known mineral species. Third, the centering types of the Bravais lattices and structures defined by the Wyckoff multiplicities of the various space groups are recognized to strongly influence the distribution of mineral species such that more structurally and symmetrically complex space groups (those with non-primitive lattice structures) tend to be represented by more minerals. Fourth, when considering the 73 arithmetic space group classes, in most cases non-symmorphic space groups are more richly populated than their linked symmorphic space groups, and in those cases where both hemisymmorphic and asymmorphic space groups are present in the same arithmetic class, the asymmorphic space groups typically contain more species. Together, these observations and interpretations augment and advance previously achieved understandings of mineral frequency distributions among the point groups and imply four future lines of inquiry: extending consideration to polymorphic species as well as relating distributions among the space groups to terrestrial mineral species abundance, mineral chemistry, as well as the evolution of mineral chemistry and paragenesis.

MiR-186-5p carried by M2 macrophage-derived exosomes downregulates TRPP2 expression in airway smooth muscle to alleviate asthma progression.

Bronchial asthma (asthma) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways that remains an unresolved problem. Reportedly M2 macrophages and exosomes play a role in inflammation, including asthma. We investigated the roles of M2 macrophage-derived exosomes (M2-Exos) effect in asthmatic progression by using ovalbumin (OVA) induced asthmatic mice model. M2-Exos significantly ameliorated the pulmonary inflammatory response and airway hyperresponsiveness in asthmatic mice and suppressed aberrant proliferation and transient receptor potential polycystic protein 2(TRPP2) expression in LPS-stimulated primary airway smooth muscle cells (ASMCs). Then, we found that miR-186-5p of M2-Exos could target TRPP2 through online database analysis. However, miR-186-5p downregulation by miR-186-5p inhibitors decreased the protective effect of M2-Exos in asthmatic mouse and cellular models. miR-186-5p was identified and selectively combined with the polycystin-2 gene encoding TRPP2 protein, inhibited TRPP2 protein production, and downregulated TRPP2 expression. A reduction in the number of TRPP2 calcium (Ca) channels formed on the cell membrane leads to a decreased intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+] i), causing reduced ASMC contraction and proliferation, thereby improving airway hyperresponsiveness and airway remodeling in asthma. Collectively, we conclude that M2 exosomal miR-186-5p to alleviate asthma progression and airway hyperresponsiveness though downregulating TRPP2 expression. These results may offer a novel insight to the treatment and drug delivery of asthma.