Background:Participation in sports is associated with many benefits to all aspects of health;however,it also comes with the risk of injury,particularly concussions.Self-disclosure and care seeking following a concussi...Background:Participation in sports is associated with many benefits to all aspects of health;however,it also comes with the risk of injury,particularly concussions.Self-disclosure and care seeking following a concussion are especially important because of the lack of outwardly visible signs and/or symptoms.Although recent research has explored factors affecting concussion disclosure,use of isolated methodologies limits the ability to contextualize how disclosure or nondisclosure occurs.Therefore,the purpose of this study was to describe the factors and expectations of National Collegiate Athletic Association(NCAA)athletes that may influence concussion disclosure.Methods:This mixed-methods convergent parallel research study included 25 NCAA Division I athletes representing 13 sports,all of whom completed a concussion-education session with pre-/post-test surveys and a semistructured interview.Eligible athletes were at least 18 years old and on an NCAA roster.The surveys focused on previous concussion-related disclosure behaviors,knowledge,attitudes,beliefs,norms,and intentions about disclosing concussion.Interviews focused on the athletes’experiences related to concussion disclosure.Survey data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Mann-Whitney U tests.Interviews were analyzed using a Consensual Qualitative Research tradition.Results:Participants had good concussion knowledge(median=46.0),positive attitudes(median=38.0),strong beliefs(median=13.0),and strong intentions to disclose concussion symptoms(median=7.0).None of the constructs differed by participants’gender.Although quantitative findings were mostly positive,interview data highlighted factors that may explain why some participants are successful in disclosing concussions and why others may find disclosure difficult.Educational efforts,sport culture,and medical professional presence were the primary facilitators discussed by participants.Stigma,pressure,and a lack of team support were perceived as disclosure barriers.Conclusion:The context in which concussion disclosure occurs or does not occur is vital to the success of educational interventions.Interventions must prioritize stakeholder-and team-based perspectives on concussion to establish a network supportive to disclosure.展开更多
BACKGROUND Online surveys can align with youth’s increased use of the internet and can be a mechanism for expanding youth participation in research.This is particularly important during the coronavirus disease 2019(C...BACKGROUND Online surveys can align with youth’s increased use of the internet and can be a mechanism for expanding youth participation in research.This is particularly important during the coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)pandemic,when inperson interactions are limited.However,the advantages and drawbacks of online systems used for research need to be carefully considered before utilizing such methodologies.AIM To describe and discuss the strengths and limitations of an online system developed to recruit adolescent girls for a sexual health research study and conduct a three-month follow up survey.METHODS This methodology paper examines the use of an online system to recruit and follow participants three months after their medical visit to evaluate a mobile sexual and reproductive health application,Health-E You/Salud iTuTM,for adolescent girls attending school-based health centers(SBHCs)across the United States.SBHC staff gave adolescent girls a web link to an online eligibility and consent survey.Participants were then asked to complete two online surveys(baseline and 3-month follow-up).Surveys,reminders,and incentives to complete them were distributed through short message service(SMS)text messages.Upon completing each survey,participants were also sent an email with a link to an electronic gift card as a thank-you for their participation.Barriers to implementing this system were discussed with clinicians and staff at each participating SBHC.RESULTS This online recruitment and retention system enabled participant recruitment at 26 different SBHCs in seven states across the United States.Between September 2021 and June 2022,415 adolescent girls were screened using the Qualtrics online survey platform,and 182 were eligible to participate.Of those eligible,78.0%(n=142)completed the baseline survey.Participants were racially,geographically,and linguistically diverse.Most of the participants(89.4%)were non-White,and 40.8%spoke Spanish.A total of 62.0%(n=88)completed the 3-month follow-up survey.Limitations of this system included reliance on internet access(via Wi-Fi or cell service),which was not universally available or reliable.In addition,an individual unrelated to the study obtained the survey link,filled out multiple surveys,and received multiple gift cards before the research team discovered and stopped this activity.As a result,additional security protocols were instituted.CONCLUSION Online systems for health research can increase the reach and diversity of study participants,reduce costs for research personnel time and travel,allow for continued study operation when in-person visits are limited(such as during the COVID-19 pandemic),and connect youth with research using technology.However,there are challenges and limitations to online systems,which include limited internet access,intermittent internet connection,data security concerns,and the potential for fraudulent users.These challenges should be considered prior to using online systems for research.展开更多
Background:The purported ergogenic and health effects of probiotics have been a topic of great intrigue among researchers,practitioners,and the lay public alike.There has also been an increased research focus within t...Background:The purported ergogenic and health effects of probiotics have been a topic of great intrigue among researchers,practitioners,and the lay public alike.There has also been an increased research focus within the realm of sports science and exercise medicine on the athletic gut microbiota.However,compared to other ergogenic aids and dietary supplements,probiotics present unique study challenges.The objectives of this systematic scoping review were to identify and characterize study methodologies of randomized controlled trials investigating supplementation with probiotics in athletes and physically active individuals.Methods:Four databases(MEDLINE,CINAHL,Cochrane CENTRAL,and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews)were searched for randomized controlled studies involving healthy athletes or physically active individuals.An intervention with probiotics and inclusion of a control and/or placebo group were essential.Only peer-reviewed articles in English were considered,and there were no date restrictions.Results were extracted and presented in tabular form to detail study protocols,characteristics,and outcomes.Bias in randomized controlled trials was determined with the RoB 2.0 tool.Results:A total of 45 studies were included in the review,with 35 using a parallel group design and 10 using a cross-over design.Approximately half the studies used a single probiotic and the other half a multi-strain preparation.The probiotic dose ranged from 2×10^(8)to 1×10^(11)colony forming units daily,and the length of intervention was between 7 and 150 days.Fewer than half the studies directly assessed gastrointestinal symptoms,gut permeability,or the gut microbiota.The sex ratio of participants was heavily weighted toward males,and only 3 studies exclusively investigated females.Low-level adverse events were reported in only 2 studies,although the methodology of reporting varied widely.The risk of bias was generally low,although details on randomization were lacking in some studies.Conclusion:There is a substantial body of research on the effects of prob iotic supplementation in healthy athletes and physically active individuals.Considerable heterogeneity in probiotic selection and dosage as well as outcome measures has made clinical and mechanistic interpretation challenging for both health care practitioners and researchers.Attention to issues of randomization of participants,treatments and interventions,selection of outcomes,demographics,and reporting of adverse events will facilitate more trustworthy interpretation of probiotic study results and inform evidence-based guidelines.展开更多
Wood,an essential natural resource in human civilization,remains widely used despite advances in technology and material substitution.The surge in greenhouse gas emissions and environmental concerns accentuates the ne...Wood,an essential natural resource in human civilization,remains widely used despite advances in technology and material substitution.The surge in greenhouse gas emissions and environmental concerns accentuates the need for optimizing wood utilization.Material flow analysis is a powerful tool for tracking material flows and stocks,aiding resource management and environmental decision-making.However,the full extent of its methodological dimensions,particularly within the context of the wood supply chain,remains relatively unexplored.In this study,we delve into the existing literature on wood flow analysis,discussing its primary objectives,materials involved,temporal and spatial scales,data sources,units,and conversion factors.Additionally,data uncertainty,data reconciliation and crucial assumptions in material flow analysis are highlighted in this paper.Key findings reveal the significance of wood cascading and substitution effects by replacing non-wood materials,where they can reduce greenhouse gas emissions more than the natural carbon sink of forests and wood products.The immediate impact of short-term wood cascading might not be as robust as the substitution effect,with energy substitution showcasing better results than material substitution.However,it's crucial to note that these conclusions could experience significant reversal from a long-term and global perspective.Strategies for improving wood efficiency involve maximizing material use,advancing construction technologies,extending product lifespans,promoting cascade use,and optimizing energy recovery processes.The study underscores the need for standardized approaches in wood flow analysis and emphasizes the potential of wood efficiency strategies in addressing environmental challenges.展开更多
Response surface methodology (RSM) using the central composite design (CCD) was applied to examine the impact of soda-anthraquinone pulping conditions on Grevillea robusta fall leaves. The pulping factors studied were...Response surface methodology (RSM) using the central composite design (CCD) was applied to examine the impact of soda-anthraquinone pulping conditions on Grevillea robusta fall leaves. The pulping factors studied were: NaOH charge 5% to 20% w/v, pulping time 30 to 180 minutes, and the anthraquinone charge 0.1 to 0.5% w/w based on the oven-dried leaves. The responses evaluated were the pulp yield, cellulose content, and the degree of delignification. Various regression models were used to evaluate the effects of varying the pulping conditions. The optimum conditions attained were;NaOH charge of 14.63%, 0.1% anthraquinone, and a pulping period of 154 minutes, corresponding to 20.68% pulp yield, 80.56% cellulose content, and 70.34% lignin removal. Analysis of variance (ANOVA), was used to determine the most important variables that improve the extraction process of cellulose. The experiment outcomes matched those predicted by the model (Predicted R2 = 0.9980, Adjusted R2 = 0.9994), demonstrating the adequacy of the model used. FTIR analysis confirmed the elimination of the non-cellulosic fiber constituents. The lignin and hemicellulose-related bands (around 1514 cm−1, 1604 cm−1, 1239 cm−1, and 1734 cm−1) decreased with chemical treatment, indicating effective cellulose extraction by the soda-anthraquinone method. Similar results were obtained by XRD, SEM and thermogravimetric analysis of the extracted cellulose. Therefore, Grevillea robusta fall leaves are suitable renewable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly non-wood biomass for cellulose extraction.展开更多
Integrated traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)and Western medicine(WM)is a new medical science grounded in the knowledge bases of both TCM and WM,which then forms a unique modern medical system in China.Integrated TCM a...Integrated traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)and Western medicine(WM)is a new medical science grounded in the knowledge bases of both TCM and WM,which then forms a unique modern medical system in China.Integrated TCM and WM has a long history in China,and has made important achievements in the process of clinical diagnosis and treatment.However,the methodological defects in currently published clinical practice guidelines(CPGs)limit its development.The organic integration of TCM and WM is a deeper integration of TCM and WM.To realize the progression of"integration"to"organic integration",a targeted and standardized guideline development methodology is needed.Therefore,the purpose of this study is to establish a standardized development procedure for clinical practice guidelines for the organic integration of TCM and WM to promote the systematic integration of TCM and WM research results into clinical practice guidelines in order to achieve optimal results as the whole is greater than the sum of the parts.展开更多
Silver nanoparticles(AgNPs)synthesized using tartaric acid as a capping agent have a great impact on the reaction kinetics and contribute significantly to the stability of AgNPs.The protective layer formed by tartaric...Silver nanoparticles(AgNPs)synthesized using tartaric acid as a capping agent have a great impact on the reaction kinetics and contribute significantly to the stability of AgNPs.The protective layer formed by tartaric acid is an important factor that protects the silver surface and reduces potential cytotoxicity problems.These attributes are critical for assessing the compatibility of AgNPs with biological systems and making them suitable for drug delivery applications.The aim of this research is to conduct a comprehensive study of the effect of tartaric acid concentration,sonication time and temperature on the formation of silver nanoparticles.Using Response Surface Methodology(RSM)with Face-Centered Central Composite Design(FCCD),the optimization process identifies the most favorable synthesis conditions.UV-Vis spectrum regression analysis shows that AgNPs stabilized with tartaric acid are more stable than AgNPs without tartaric acid.This highlights the increased stability that tartaric acid provides in AgNP ssssynthesis.Particle size distribution analysis showed a multimodal distribution for AgNPs with tartaric acid and showed the smallest size peak with an average size of 20.53 nm.The second peak with increasing intensity shows a dominant average size of 108.8 nm accompanied by one standard deviation of 4.225 nm and a zeta potential of−11.08 mV.In contrast,AgNPs synthesized with polyvinylpyrrolidone(PVP)showed a unimodal particle distribution with an average particle size of 81.62 nm and a zeta potential of−2.96 mV.The more negative zeta potential of AgNP-tartaric acid indicates its increased stability.Evaluation of antibacterial activity showed that AgNPs stabilized with tartaric acid showed better performance against E.coli and B.subtilis bacteria compared with AgNPs-PVP.In summary,this study highlights the potential of tartaric acid in AgNP synthesis and suggests an avenue for the development of stable AgNPs with versatile applications.展开更多
In the United States(US),the Surveillance,Epidemiology,and End Results(SEER)program is the only comprehensive source of population-based information that includes stage of cancer at the time of diagnosis and patient s...In the United States(US),the Surveillance,Epidemiology,and End Results(SEER)program is the only comprehensive source of population-based information that includes stage of cancer at the time of diagnosis and patient survival data.This program aims to provide a database about cancer incidence and survival for studies of surveillance and the development of analytical and methodological tools in the cancer field.Currently,the SEER program covers approximately half of the total cancer patients in the US.A growing number of clinical studies have applied the SEER database in various aspects.However,the intrinsic features of the SEER database,such as the huge data volume and complexity of data types,have hindered its application.In this review,we provided a systematic overview of the commonly used methodologies and study designs for retrospective epidemiological research in order to illustrate the application of the SEER database.Therefore,the goal of this review is to assist researchers in the selection of appropriate methods and study designs for enhancing the robustness and reliability of clinical studies by mining the SEER database.展开更多
[Objectives]To optimize the formulation and preparation of oregano oil microspheres by Box-Behnken response surface methodology.[Methods]Chitosan was used as the carrier material to prepare oregano oil microspheres by...[Objectives]To optimize the formulation and preparation of oregano oil microspheres by Box-Behnken response surface methodology.[Methods]Chitosan was used as the carrier material to prepare oregano oil microspheres by emulsion crosslinking method.The encapsulation efficiency,drug loading and ID 50 were used as the evaluation indicators,and the comprehensive score(OD)obtained by"coefficient of variation-AHP comprehensive weighting method"was used as the final evaluation indicator.The formulation design and preparation process were optimized by single factor experiment and Box-Behnken response surface methodology,and the optimal process parameters were determined.[Results]The optimal formulation and preparation process parameters of oregano oil microspheres were as follows:the ratio of oregano oil to chitosan was 2∶1,the emulsifying speed of double emulsion was 200 r/min,the amount of emulsifier in the colostrum was 4%,and the volume of curing agent was 1.0 mL.The average encapsulation efficiency was 45.33%±1.32%,the average drug loading was 30.59%±2.45%,and the median diameter(ID 50)was 52.596μm±0.023%.[Conclusions]The encapsulation efficiency,drug loading and ID 50 of oregano oil chitosan microspheres prepared by emulsion crosslinking method met the requirements.The drug-loaded microsphere not only can be used as a preparation finished product for direct application,but also be used as a product intermediate to lay a foundation for the research and development of subsequent dosage forms.展开更多
In this study, coconut husk cellulose was employed as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly adsorbent to eliminate methylene blue (MB) dye from aqueous solutions. The successful development of response surface...In this study, coconut husk cellulose was employed as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly adsorbent to eliminate methylene blue (MB) dye from aqueous solutions. The successful development of response surface methodology paired with a central composite design (RSM-CCD) enabled the optimization and modelling of the adsorption process. The study investigated the individual and combined effects of three variables (pH, contact time, and initial MB dye concentration) on the adsorption of MB dye onto coconut husk cellulose. The developed RSM-CCD model exhibited a remarkable degree of precision in predicting the removal efficiency of MB dye within the specified experimental parameters. This was demonstrated by the strong regression parameters, with an R<sup>2</sup> value of 99.79% and an adjusted R<sup>2</sup> value of 99.6%. The study depicted that the optimal parameters for attaining a 98.8827% removal of MB dye using coconut husk cellulose were as follows: an initial MB dye concentration of 30 mg∙L<sup>−1</sup>, contact time of 120 minutes, and pH 7 at a fixed adsorbent dose of 0.5 g. The Freundlich isotherm model provided the most satisfactory description of the equilibrium adsorption isotherms, suggesting that MB dye adsorption onto coconut husk cellulose occurs on a heterogeneous surface. The experimental results demonstrated a strong agreement with the pseudo-second-order kinetics model, indicating that the number of active sites present on the cellulose adsorbent predominantly influences the adsorption process of MB dye. Additionally, the adsorbent made from coconut husk cellulose exhibited the potential to be reused, as it retained its efficiency for a maximum of three cycles of adsorption of MB dye. The results of this study show that coconut husk cellulose has the potential to be an effective and sustainable adsorbent for removing MB dye from aqueous solutions.展开更多
This research introduces a novel approach to enhancing bucket elevator design and operation through the integration of discrete element method(DEM)simulation,design of experiments(DOE),and metaheuristic optimization a...This research introduces a novel approach to enhancing bucket elevator design and operation through the integration of discrete element method(DEM)simulation,design of experiments(DOE),and metaheuristic optimization algorithms.Specifically,the study employs the firefly algorithm(FA),a metaheuristic optimization technique,to optimize bucket elevator parameters for maximizing transport mass and mass flow rate discharge of granular materials under specified working conditions.The experimental methodology involves several key steps:screening experiments to identify significant factors affecting bucket elevator operation,central composite design(CCD)experiments to further explore these factors,and response surface methodology(RSM)to create predictive models for transport mass and mass flow rate discharge.The FA algorithm is then applied to optimize these models,and the results are validated through simulation and empirical experiments.The study validates the optimized parameters through simulation and empirical experiments,comparing results with DEM simulation.The outcomes demonstrate the effectiveness of the FA algorithm in identifying optimal bucket parameters,showcasing less than 10%and 15%deviation for transport mass and mass flow rate discharge,respectively,between predicted and actual values.Overall,this research provides insights into the critical factors influencing bucket elevator operation and offers a systematic methodology for optimizing bucket parameters,contributing to more efficient material handling in various industrial applications.展开更多
This study focuses on the extraction of cellulose nanocrystals (CNC), from microcrystalline cellulose (MCC), derived from Ayous sawdust. The process involves multiple steps and a large amount of chemical products. The...This study focuses on the extraction of cellulose nanocrystals (CNC), from microcrystalline cellulose (MCC), derived from Ayous sawdust. The process involves multiple steps and a large amount of chemical products. The objective of this research was to determine the effects of factors that impact the isolation process and to identify the optimal conditions for CNC isolation by using the response surface methodology. The factors that varied during the process were the quantity of MCC, the concentration of sulfuric acid, the hydrolysis time and temperature, and the ultrasonic treatment time. The response measured was the yield. The study found that with 5.80 g of microcrystalline cellulose, a sulfuric acid concentration of 63.50% (w/w), a hydrolysis time of 53 minutes, a hydrolysis temperature of 69˚C, and a sonication time of 19 minutes are the ideal conditions for isolation. The experimental yield achieved was (37.84 ± 0.99) %. The main factors influencing the process were the sulfuric acid concentration, hydrolysis time and temperature, with a significant influence (p < 0.05). Infrared characterization results showed that nanocrystals were indeed isolated. With a crystallinity of 35.23 and 79.74, respectively, for Ayous wood fiber and nanocrystalline cellulose were observed by X-ray diffraction, with the formation of type II cellulose, thermodynamically more stable than native cellulose type I.展开更多
Short-duration heavy rainfall(SHR),as delineated by the National Meteorological Center of the China Me-teorological Administration,is characterized by hourly rainfall amounts no less than 20.0 mm.SHR is one of the mos...Short-duration heavy rainfall(SHR),as delineated by the National Meteorological Center of the China Me-teorological Administration,is characterized by hourly rainfall amounts no less than 20.0 mm.SHR is one of the most common convective weather phenomena that can cause severe damage.Short-range forecasting of SHR is an important part of operational severe weather prediction.In the present study,an improved objective SHR forecasting scheme was developed by adopting the ingredients-based methodology and using the fuzzy logic approach.The 1.0°×1.0°National Centers for Environmental Prediction(NCEP)final analysis data and the ordinary rainfall(0.1-19.9 mm h-1)and SHR observational data from 411 stations were used in the improved scheme.The best lifted index,the total precipitable water,the 925 hPa specific humidity(Q 925),and the 925 hPa divergence(DIV 925)were selected as predictors based on objective analysis.Continuously distributed membership functions of predictors were obtained based on relative frequency analysis.The weights of predictors were also objectively determined.Experiments with a typhoon SHR case and a spring SHR case show that the main possible areas could be captured by the improved scheme.Verification of SHR forecasts within 96 hours with NCEP global forecasts 1.0°×1.0°data initiated at 08:00 Beijing Time during the warm seasons in 2015 show the results were improved from both deterministic and probabilistic perspectives.This study provides an objectively feasible choice for short-range guidance forecasts of SHR.The scheme can be applied to other convective phenomena.展开更多
The simulated patient methodology(SPM)is considered the“gold standard”as covert participatory observation.SPM is attracting increasing interest for the investigation of community pharmacy practice;however,there is c...The simulated patient methodology(SPM)is considered the“gold standard”as covert participatory observation.SPM is attracting increasing interest for the investigation of community pharmacy practice;however,there is criticism that SPM can only show a small picture of everyday pharmacy practice and therefore has limited external validity.On the one hand,a certain design and application of the SPM goes hand in hand with an increase in external validity.Even if,on the other hand,this occurs at the expense of internal validity due to the trade-off situation,the justified criticism of the SPM for investigating community pharmacy practice can be countered.展开更多
The Bureau of Statistics has demonstrated a forward-looking strategic approach in its economic census.By leveraging dual innovations in technology and management,and incorporating modern technologies such as big data,...The Bureau of Statistics has demonstrated a forward-looking strategic approach in its economic census.By leveraging dual innovations in technology and management,and incorporating modern technologies such as big data,cloud computing,and the Internet of Things,it has deepened the reform of the census methodology.Additionally,the Bureau has built a multi-dimensional collaborative network that enhances international cooperation,departmental coordination,and public participation.This approach not only addresses the limitations of traditional statistical methods in a complex economic environment but also improves data quality and census efficiency,providing an accurate and reliable foundation for national economic decision-making.展开更多
Methodological quality(risk of bias)assessment is an important step before study initiation usage.Therefore,accurately judging study type is the first priority,and the choosing proper tool is also important.In this re...Methodological quality(risk of bias)assessment is an important step before study initiation usage.Therefore,accurately judging study type is the first priority,and the choosing proper tool is also important.In this review,we introduced methodological quality assessment tools for randomized controlled trial(including individual and cluster),animal study,non-randomized interventional studies(including follow-up study,controlled before-and-after study,before-after/pre-post study,uncontrolled longitudinal study,interrupted time series study),cohort study,case-control study,cross-sectional study(including analytical and descriptive),observational case series and case reports,comparative effectiveness research,diagnostic study,health economic evaluation,prediction study(including predictor finding study,prediction model impact study,prognostic prediction model study),qualitative study,outcome measurement instruments(including patient-reported outcome measure development,content validity,structural validity,internal consistency,cross-cultural validity/measurement invariance,reliability,measurement error,criterion validity,hypotheses testing for construct validity,and responsiveness),systematic review and meta-analysis,and clinical practice guideline.The readers of our review can distinguish the types of medical studies and choose appropriate tools.In one word,comprehensively mastering relevant knowledge and implementing more practices are basic requirements for correctly assessing the methodological quality.展开更多
Objective: This study assessed the methodological quality of systematic reviews/meta-analysis of the effectiveness of probiotics against irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) using the accepted methodological quality assessm...Objective: This study assessed the methodological quality of systematic reviews/meta-analysis of the effectiveness of probiotics against irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) using the accepted methodological quality assessment scale AMSTAR and explored the factors that influenced the quality of methodology. It was designed to provide a reference for future research and systematic reviews/metaanalysis. Methods: The methodological quality of existing systematic reviews/meta-analysis was evaluated using the AMSTAR scale. Influencing factors of methodological quality were statistically analyzed using RevMan 5.3 software. The included systematic reviews/metaanalysis must include the following characteristics:(1) methods using systematic evaluation/meta-analysis,(2) probiotic intervention, and (3) language limitation to Chinese and English. Results: The AMSTAR score was 5-9 (7.42 ± 1.22), and the quality is above average. The factors affecting the methodological quality are the number of authors and whether they cooperate with the institution. Conclusions: Studies have shown that current systematic reviews/meta-analysis of the effectiveness of probiotics on IBS does not fully comply with methodological quality standards, and therefore the methodological quality of research in this area needs to be strengthened. To better clarify how probiotics affect IBS, future systematic reviews and meta-analyses should not only follow methodological quality standards but also include more effective outcome measures, and they should focus more on the discussion of research results. We look forward to the development of higher-quality randomized controlled trials in the future.展开更多
Objective: To try to give an objective evaluation on the clinical research situation about acupuncture treatment of facial paralysis in the past 50 years and try to provide a possible evidence for clinical practice. M...Objective: To try to give an objective evaluation on the clinical research situation about acupuncture treatment of facial paralysis in the past 50 years and try to provide a possible evidence for clinical practice. Methods: All papers are searched and assessed according to the international standards and clinical epidemiology. Results: There is no systematic review (SR) on acupuncture treatment of facial palsy in a total of 1021 articles enlisted in the present paper. Comparing with the quantity of the descriptive studies and expert opinions (constituting 84.84%), that of the randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and clinical controlled trials (CCTs) is smaller (constituting 15.16%), besides, the quality of RCTs and CCTs is unsatisfactory. Conclusion: At present, the quantity and quality of studies with RCTs about acupuncture treatment of facial paralysis can’t meet the need of clinical practice, and in order to improve the therapeutic effect, a higher quality of RCTs and SR is required.展开更多
In recent years,microbial metabolomics,a new field that has attracted wide attention,provides a map of metabolic pathways and clarifies the interaction mechanism between microorganisms and hosts.Many microorganisms ar...In recent years,microbial metabolomics,a new field that has attracted wide attention,provides a map of metabolic pathways and clarifies the interaction mechanism between microorganisms and hosts.Many microorganisms are found in the human intestine,oral cavity,vagina,etc.Probiotics could maintain the good health of the host,while pathogens and an imbalance of bacterial flora lead to a series of diseases of the body and mind.Metabolomics is a science for qualitative and quantitative analysis of all metabolites in an organism or biological system,which could provide key information to understand the related metabolic pathways and associated changes.This approach analyzes the final products of cellular regulatory processes,the level of which can be regarded as the ultimate response of the biological system to genetic or environmental changes.Microbial metabolomics has been widely used in different research fields,such as microbial phenotypic classification,mutant screening,metabolic pathways,microbial metabolic engineering,fermentation engineering monitoring and optimization,microbial environmental pollution,and so on.However,there are only a few reviews on microbial metabolomics of probiotics and pathogens.This review summarizes the main methodologies,including sample preparation,identification of metabolites,data processing,and analysis.Recent applications in microbial metabolomics of probiotics and pathogens are also described.This paper first summarized the research progress and application of microbial metabolomics from two aspects:probiotics and pathogenic bacteria.Probiotics and pathogenic bacteria do not exist independently most of the time;hence,these were reviewed in the research field of coexistence of probiotics and pathogenic bacteria,which was subdivided into important microbial research fields closely related to human health,including the human gut,oral cavity,food,and nutrition-related microorganisms.Then,the main problems and trends associated with microbial metabolomics are discussed.展开更多
基金supported by the National Collegiate Athletic Association—Department of Defense(NCAA—DOD)Mind Matters Research Challenge Award。
文摘Background:Participation in sports is associated with many benefits to all aspects of health;however,it also comes with the risk of injury,particularly concussions.Self-disclosure and care seeking following a concussion are especially important because of the lack of outwardly visible signs and/or symptoms.Although recent research has explored factors affecting concussion disclosure,use of isolated methodologies limits the ability to contextualize how disclosure or nondisclosure occurs.Therefore,the purpose of this study was to describe the factors and expectations of National Collegiate Athletic Association(NCAA)athletes that may influence concussion disclosure.Methods:This mixed-methods convergent parallel research study included 25 NCAA Division I athletes representing 13 sports,all of whom completed a concussion-education session with pre-/post-test surveys and a semistructured interview.Eligible athletes were at least 18 years old and on an NCAA roster.The surveys focused on previous concussion-related disclosure behaviors,knowledge,attitudes,beliefs,norms,and intentions about disclosing concussion.Interviews focused on the athletes’experiences related to concussion disclosure.Survey data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Mann-Whitney U tests.Interviews were analyzed using a Consensual Qualitative Research tradition.Results:Participants had good concussion knowledge(median=46.0),positive attitudes(median=38.0),strong beliefs(median=13.0),and strong intentions to disclose concussion symptoms(median=7.0).None of the constructs differed by participants’gender.Although quantitative findings were mostly positive,interview data highlighted factors that may explain why some participants are successful in disclosing concussions and why others may find disclosure difficult.Educational efforts,sport culture,and medical professional presence were the primary facilitators discussed by participants.Stigma,pressure,and a lack of team support were perceived as disclosure barriers.Conclusion:The context in which concussion disclosure occurs or does not occur is vital to the success of educational interventions.Interventions must prioritize stakeholder-and team-based perspectives on concussion to establish a network supportive to disclosure.
基金Supported by a Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute(PCORI)Dissemination and Implementation Award,No.DI-2020C2-20372.
文摘BACKGROUND Online surveys can align with youth’s increased use of the internet and can be a mechanism for expanding youth participation in research.This is particularly important during the coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)pandemic,when inperson interactions are limited.However,the advantages and drawbacks of online systems used for research need to be carefully considered before utilizing such methodologies.AIM To describe and discuss the strengths and limitations of an online system developed to recruit adolescent girls for a sexual health research study and conduct a three-month follow up survey.METHODS This methodology paper examines the use of an online system to recruit and follow participants three months after their medical visit to evaluate a mobile sexual and reproductive health application,Health-E You/Salud iTuTM,for adolescent girls attending school-based health centers(SBHCs)across the United States.SBHC staff gave adolescent girls a web link to an online eligibility and consent survey.Participants were then asked to complete two online surveys(baseline and 3-month follow-up).Surveys,reminders,and incentives to complete them were distributed through short message service(SMS)text messages.Upon completing each survey,participants were also sent an email with a link to an electronic gift card as a thank-you for their participation.Barriers to implementing this system were discussed with clinicians and staff at each participating SBHC.RESULTS This online recruitment and retention system enabled participant recruitment at 26 different SBHCs in seven states across the United States.Between September 2021 and June 2022,415 adolescent girls were screened using the Qualtrics online survey platform,and 182 were eligible to participate.Of those eligible,78.0%(n=142)completed the baseline survey.Participants were racially,geographically,and linguistically diverse.Most of the participants(89.4%)were non-White,and 40.8%spoke Spanish.A total of 62.0%(n=88)completed the 3-month follow-up survey.Limitations of this system included reliance on internet access(via Wi-Fi or cell service),which was not universally available or reliable.In addition,an individual unrelated to the study obtained the survey link,filled out multiple surveys,and received multiple gift cards before the research team discovered and stopped this activity.As a result,additional security protocols were instituted.CONCLUSION Online systems for health research can increase the reach and diversity of study participants,reduce costs for research personnel time and travel,allow for continued study operation when in-person visits are limited(such as during the COVID-19 pandemic),and connect youth with research using technology.However,there are challenges and limitations to online systems,which include limited internet access,intermittent internet connection,data security concerns,and the potential for fraudulent users.These challenges should be considered prior to using online systems for research.
文摘Background:The purported ergogenic and health effects of probiotics have been a topic of great intrigue among researchers,practitioners,and the lay public alike.There has also been an increased research focus within the realm of sports science and exercise medicine on the athletic gut microbiota.However,compared to other ergogenic aids and dietary supplements,probiotics present unique study challenges.The objectives of this systematic scoping review were to identify and characterize study methodologies of randomized controlled trials investigating supplementation with probiotics in athletes and physically active individuals.Methods:Four databases(MEDLINE,CINAHL,Cochrane CENTRAL,and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews)were searched for randomized controlled studies involving healthy athletes or physically active individuals.An intervention with probiotics and inclusion of a control and/or placebo group were essential.Only peer-reviewed articles in English were considered,and there were no date restrictions.Results were extracted and presented in tabular form to detail study protocols,characteristics,and outcomes.Bias in randomized controlled trials was determined with the RoB 2.0 tool.Results:A total of 45 studies were included in the review,with 35 using a parallel group design and 10 using a cross-over design.Approximately half the studies used a single probiotic and the other half a multi-strain preparation.The probiotic dose ranged from 2×10^(8)to 1×10^(11)colony forming units daily,and the length of intervention was between 7 and 150 days.Fewer than half the studies directly assessed gastrointestinal symptoms,gut permeability,or the gut microbiota.The sex ratio of participants was heavily weighted toward males,and only 3 studies exclusively investigated females.Low-level adverse events were reported in only 2 studies,although the methodology of reporting varied widely.The risk of bias was generally low,although details on randomization were lacking in some studies.Conclusion:There is a substantial body of research on the effects of prob iotic supplementation in healthy athletes and physically active individuals.Considerable heterogeneity in probiotic selection and dosage as well as outcome measures has made clinical and mechanistic interpretation challenging for both health care practitioners and researchers.Attention to issues of randomization of participants,treatments and interventions,selection of outcomes,demographics,and reporting of adverse events will facilitate more trustworthy interpretation of probiotic study results and inform evidence-based guidelines.
基金The China Scholarship Council finances this research (Grant number CSC202010220001)。
文摘Wood,an essential natural resource in human civilization,remains widely used despite advances in technology and material substitution.The surge in greenhouse gas emissions and environmental concerns accentuates the need for optimizing wood utilization.Material flow analysis is a powerful tool for tracking material flows and stocks,aiding resource management and environmental decision-making.However,the full extent of its methodological dimensions,particularly within the context of the wood supply chain,remains relatively unexplored.In this study,we delve into the existing literature on wood flow analysis,discussing its primary objectives,materials involved,temporal and spatial scales,data sources,units,and conversion factors.Additionally,data uncertainty,data reconciliation and crucial assumptions in material flow analysis are highlighted in this paper.Key findings reveal the significance of wood cascading and substitution effects by replacing non-wood materials,where they can reduce greenhouse gas emissions more than the natural carbon sink of forests and wood products.The immediate impact of short-term wood cascading might not be as robust as the substitution effect,with energy substitution showcasing better results than material substitution.However,it's crucial to note that these conclusions could experience significant reversal from a long-term and global perspective.Strategies for improving wood efficiency involve maximizing material use,advancing construction technologies,extending product lifespans,promoting cascade use,and optimizing energy recovery processes.The study underscores the need for standardized approaches in wood flow analysis and emphasizes the potential of wood efficiency strategies in addressing environmental challenges.
文摘Response surface methodology (RSM) using the central composite design (CCD) was applied to examine the impact of soda-anthraquinone pulping conditions on Grevillea robusta fall leaves. The pulping factors studied were: NaOH charge 5% to 20% w/v, pulping time 30 to 180 minutes, and the anthraquinone charge 0.1 to 0.5% w/w based on the oven-dried leaves. The responses evaluated were the pulp yield, cellulose content, and the degree of delignification. Various regression models were used to evaluate the effects of varying the pulping conditions. The optimum conditions attained were;NaOH charge of 14.63%, 0.1% anthraquinone, and a pulping period of 154 minutes, corresponding to 20.68% pulp yield, 80.56% cellulose content, and 70.34% lignin removal. Analysis of variance (ANOVA), was used to determine the most important variables that improve the extraction process of cellulose. The experiment outcomes matched those predicted by the model (Predicted R2 = 0.9980, Adjusted R2 = 0.9994), demonstrating the adequacy of the model used. FTIR analysis confirmed the elimination of the non-cellulosic fiber constituents. The lignin and hemicellulose-related bands (around 1514 cm−1, 1604 cm−1, 1239 cm−1, and 1734 cm−1) decreased with chemical treatment, indicating effective cellulose extraction by the soda-anthraquinone method. Similar results were obtained by XRD, SEM and thermogravimetric analysis of the extracted cellulose. Therefore, Grevillea robusta fall leaves are suitable renewable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly non-wood biomass for cellulose extraction.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82174230)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(2042022kf1213)。
文摘Integrated traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)and Western medicine(WM)is a new medical science grounded in the knowledge bases of both TCM and WM,which then forms a unique modern medical system in China.Integrated TCM and WM has a long history in China,and has made important achievements in the process of clinical diagnosis and treatment.However,the methodological defects in currently published clinical practice guidelines(CPGs)limit its development.The organic integration of TCM and WM is a deeper integration of TCM and WM.To realize the progression of"integration"to"organic integration",a targeted and standardized guideline development methodology is needed.Therefore,the purpose of this study is to establish a standardized development procedure for clinical practice guidelines for the organic integration of TCM and WM to promote the systematic integration of TCM and WM research results into clinical practice guidelines in order to achieve optimal results as the whole is greater than the sum of the parts.
基金funded by the Directorate of Research and Community Service (DRPM,Direktorat Riset dan Pengabdian Kepada Masyarakat)ITS through the ITS Research Local Grant (No:1665/PKS/ITS/2023).
文摘Silver nanoparticles(AgNPs)synthesized using tartaric acid as a capping agent have a great impact on the reaction kinetics and contribute significantly to the stability of AgNPs.The protective layer formed by tartaric acid is an important factor that protects the silver surface and reduces potential cytotoxicity problems.These attributes are critical for assessing the compatibility of AgNPs with biological systems and making them suitable for drug delivery applications.The aim of this research is to conduct a comprehensive study of the effect of tartaric acid concentration,sonication time and temperature on the formation of silver nanoparticles.Using Response Surface Methodology(RSM)with Face-Centered Central Composite Design(FCCD),the optimization process identifies the most favorable synthesis conditions.UV-Vis spectrum regression analysis shows that AgNPs stabilized with tartaric acid are more stable than AgNPs without tartaric acid.This highlights the increased stability that tartaric acid provides in AgNP ssssynthesis.Particle size distribution analysis showed a multimodal distribution for AgNPs with tartaric acid and showed the smallest size peak with an average size of 20.53 nm.The second peak with increasing intensity shows a dominant average size of 108.8 nm accompanied by one standard deviation of 4.225 nm and a zeta potential of−11.08 mV.In contrast,AgNPs synthesized with polyvinylpyrrolidone(PVP)showed a unimodal particle distribution with an average particle size of 81.62 nm and a zeta potential of−2.96 mV.The more negative zeta potential of AgNP-tartaric acid indicates its increased stability.Evaluation of antibacterial activity showed that AgNPs stabilized with tartaric acid showed better performance against E.coli and B.subtilis bacteria compared with AgNPs-PVP.In summary,this study highlights the potential of tartaric acid in AgNP synthesis and suggests an avenue for the development of stable AgNPs with versatile applications.
基金Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Informatization(2021B1212040007)Clinical Frontier Technology Program of the First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University,China(JNU1AF-CFTP-2022-a01235)Science and Technology Projects in Guangzhou,China(202201020054,2023A03J1032).
文摘In the United States(US),the Surveillance,Epidemiology,and End Results(SEER)program is the only comprehensive source of population-based information that includes stage of cancer at the time of diagnosis and patient survival data.This program aims to provide a database about cancer incidence and survival for studies of surveillance and the development of analytical and methodological tools in the cancer field.Currently,the SEER program covers approximately half of the total cancer patients in the US.A growing number of clinical studies have applied the SEER database in various aspects.However,the intrinsic features of the SEER database,such as the huge data volume and complexity of data types,have hindered its application.In this review,we provided a systematic overview of the commonly used methodologies and study designs for retrospective epidemiological research in order to illustrate the application of the SEER database.Therefore,the goal of this review is to assist researchers in the selection of appropriate methods and study designs for enhancing the robustness and reliability of clinical studies by mining the SEER database.
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China(81560659)General Program of Natural Science Foundation of Jiangxi Province(2023BAB206169)+2 种基金Science and Technology Research Project of Jiangxi Provincial Department of Education(GJJ2200903&GJJ2200952)Science and Technology Plan of Jiangxi Provincial Health Commission(202211411)National College Students Innovation and Entrepreneurship Training Program(202310412028&202110412041).
文摘[Objectives]To optimize the formulation and preparation of oregano oil microspheres by Box-Behnken response surface methodology.[Methods]Chitosan was used as the carrier material to prepare oregano oil microspheres by emulsion crosslinking method.The encapsulation efficiency,drug loading and ID 50 were used as the evaluation indicators,and the comprehensive score(OD)obtained by"coefficient of variation-AHP comprehensive weighting method"was used as the final evaluation indicator.The formulation design and preparation process were optimized by single factor experiment and Box-Behnken response surface methodology,and the optimal process parameters were determined.[Results]The optimal formulation and preparation process parameters of oregano oil microspheres were as follows:the ratio of oregano oil to chitosan was 2∶1,the emulsifying speed of double emulsion was 200 r/min,the amount of emulsifier in the colostrum was 4%,and the volume of curing agent was 1.0 mL.The average encapsulation efficiency was 45.33%±1.32%,the average drug loading was 30.59%±2.45%,and the median diameter(ID 50)was 52.596μm±0.023%.[Conclusions]The encapsulation efficiency,drug loading and ID 50 of oregano oil chitosan microspheres prepared by emulsion crosslinking method met the requirements.The drug-loaded microsphere not only can be used as a preparation finished product for direct application,but also be used as a product intermediate to lay a foundation for the research and development of subsequent dosage forms.
文摘In this study, coconut husk cellulose was employed as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly adsorbent to eliminate methylene blue (MB) dye from aqueous solutions. The successful development of response surface methodology paired with a central composite design (RSM-CCD) enabled the optimization and modelling of the adsorption process. The study investigated the individual and combined effects of three variables (pH, contact time, and initial MB dye concentration) on the adsorption of MB dye onto coconut husk cellulose. The developed RSM-CCD model exhibited a remarkable degree of precision in predicting the removal efficiency of MB dye within the specified experimental parameters. This was demonstrated by the strong regression parameters, with an R<sup>2</sup> value of 99.79% and an adjusted R<sup>2</sup> value of 99.6%. The study depicted that the optimal parameters for attaining a 98.8827% removal of MB dye using coconut husk cellulose were as follows: an initial MB dye concentration of 30 mg∙L<sup>−1</sup>, contact time of 120 minutes, and pH 7 at a fixed adsorbent dose of 0.5 g. The Freundlich isotherm model provided the most satisfactory description of the equilibrium adsorption isotherms, suggesting that MB dye adsorption onto coconut husk cellulose occurs on a heterogeneous surface. The experimental results demonstrated a strong agreement with the pseudo-second-order kinetics model, indicating that the number of active sites present on the cellulose adsorbent predominantly influences the adsorption process of MB dye. Additionally, the adsorbent made from coconut husk cellulose exhibited the potential to be reused, as it retained its efficiency for a maximum of three cycles of adsorption of MB dye. The results of this study show that coconut husk cellulose has the potential to be an effective and sustainable adsorbent for removing MB dye from aqueous solutions.
基金This research was funded by the Faculty of Engineering,King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok.Contract No.ENG-NEW-66-39.
文摘This research introduces a novel approach to enhancing bucket elevator design and operation through the integration of discrete element method(DEM)simulation,design of experiments(DOE),and metaheuristic optimization algorithms.Specifically,the study employs the firefly algorithm(FA),a metaheuristic optimization technique,to optimize bucket elevator parameters for maximizing transport mass and mass flow rate discharge of granular materials under specified working conditions.The experimental methodology involves several key steps:screening experiments to identify significant factors affecting bucket elevator operation,central composite design(CCD)experiments to further explore these factors,and response surface methodology(RSM)to create predictive models for transport mass and mass flow rate discharge.The FA algorithm is then applied to optimize these models,and the results are validated through simulation and empirical experiments.The study validates the optimized parameters through simulation and empirical experiments,comparing results with DEM simulation.The outcomes demonstrate the effectiveness of the FA algorithm in identifying optimal bucket parameters,showcasing less than 10%and 15%deviation for transport mass and mass flow rate discharge,respectively,between predicted and actual values.Overall,this research provides insights into the critical factors influencing bucket elevator operation and offers a systematic methodology for optimizing bucket parameters,contributing to more efficient material handling in various industrial applications.
文摘This study focuses on the extraction of cellulose nanocrystals (CNC), from microcrystalline cellulose (MCC), derived from Ayous sawdust. The process involves multiple steps and a large amount of chemical products. The objective of this research was to determine the effects of factors that impact the isolation process and to identify the optimal conditions for CNC isolation by using the response surface methodology. The factors that varied during the process were the quantity of MCC, the concentration of sulfuric acid, the hydrolysis time and temperature, and the ultrasonic treatment time. The response measured was the yield. The study found that with 5.80 g of microcrystalline cellulose, a sulfuric acid concentration of 63.50% (w/w), a hydrolysis time of 53 minutes, a hydrolysis temperature of 69˚C, and a sonication time of 19 minutes are the ideal conditions for isolation. The experimental yield achieved was (37.84 ± 0.99) %. The main factors influencing the process were the sulfuric acid concentration, hydrolysis time and temperature, with a significant influence (p < 0.05). Infrared characterization results showed that nanocrystals were indeed isolated. With a crystallinity of 35.23 and 79.74, respectively, for Ayous wood fiber and nanocrystalline cellulose were observed by X-ray diffraction, with the formation of type II cellulose, thermodynamically more stable than native cellulose type I.
基金Key R&D Program of Xizang Autonomous Region(XZ202101ZY0004G)National Natural Science Foundation of China(U2142202)+1 种基金National Key R&D Program of China(2022YFC3004104)Key Innovation Team of China Meteor-ological Administration(CMA2022ZD07)。
文摘Short-duration heavy rainfall(SHR),as delineated by the National Meteorological Center of the China Me-teorological Administration,is characterized by hourly rainfall amounts no less than 20.0 mm.SHR is one of the most common convective weather phenomena that can cause severe damage.Short-range forecasting of SHR is an important part of operational severe weather prediction.In the present study,an improved objective SHR forecasting scheme was developed by adopting the ingredients-based methodology and using the fuzzy logic approach.The 1.0°×1.0°National Centers for Environmental Prediction(NCEP)final analysis data and the ordinary rainfall(0.1-19.9 mm h-1)and SHR observational data from 411 stations were used in the improved scheme.The best lifted index,the total precipitable water,the 925 hPa specific humidity(Q 925),and the 925 hPa divergence(DIV 925)were selected as predictors based on objective analysis.Continuously distributed membership functions of predictors were obtained based on relative frequency analysis.The weights of predictors were also objectively determined.Experiments with a typhoon SHR case and a spring SHR case show that the main possible areas could be captured by the improved scheme.Verification of SHR forecasts within 96 hours with NCEP global forecasts 1.0°×1.0°data initiated at 08:00 Beijing Time during the warm seasons in 2015 show the results were improved from both deterministic and probabilistic perspectives.This study provides an objectively feasible choice for short-range guidance forecasts of SHR.The scheme can be applied to other convective phenomena.
文摘The simulated patient methodology(SPM)is considered the“gold standard”as covert participatory observation.SPM is attracting increasing interest for the investigation of community pharmacy practice;however,there is criticism that SPM can only show a small picture of everyday pharmacy practice and therefore has limited external validity.On the one hand,a certain design and application of the SPM goes hand in hand with an increase in external validity.Even if,on the other hand,this occurs at the expense of internal validity due to the trade-off situation,the justified criticism of the SPM for investigating community pharmacy practice can be countered.
文摘The Bureau of Statistics has demonstrated a forward-looking strategic approach in its economic census.By leveraging dual innovations in technology and management,and incorporating modern technologies such as big data,cloud computing,and the Internet of Things,it has deepened the reform of the census methodology.Additionally,the Bureau has built a multi-dimensional collaborative network that enhances international cooperation,departmental coordination,and public participation.This approach not only addresses the limitations of traditional statistical methods in a complex economic environment but also improves data quality and census efficiency,providing an accurate and reliable foundation for national economic decision-making.
基金supported(in part)by the Entrusted Project of National commission on health and health of China(No.2019099)the National Key Research and Development Plan of China(2016YFC0106300)the Nature Science Foundation of Hubei Province(2019FFB03902)。
文摘Methodological quality(risk of bias)assessment is an important step before study initiation usage.Therefore,accurately judging study type is the first priority,and the choosing proper tool is also important.In this review,we introduced methodological quality assessment tools for randomized controlled trial(including individual and cluster),animal study,non-randomized interventional studies(including follow-up study,controlled before-and-after study,before-after/pre-post study,uncontrolled longitudinal study,interrupted time series study),cohort study,case-control study,cross-sectional study(including analytical and descriptive),observational case series and case reports,comparative effectiveness research,diagnostic study,health economic evaluation,prediction study(including predictor finding study,prediction model impact study,prognostic prediction model study),qualitative study,outcome measurement instruments(including patient-reported outcome measure development,content validity,structural validity,internal consistency,cross-cultural validity/measurement invariance,reliability,measurement error,criterion validity,hypotheses testing for construct validity,and responsiveness),systematic review and meta-analysis,and clinical practice guideline.The readers of our review can distinguish the types of medical studies and choose appropriate tools.In one word,comprehensively mastering relevant knowledge and implementing more practices are basic requirements for correctly assessing the methodological quality.
文摘Objective: This study assessed the methodological quality of systematic reviews/meta-analysis of the effectiveness of probiotics against irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) using the accepted methodological quality assessment scale AMSTAR and explored the factors that influenced the quality of methodology. It was designed to provide a reference for future research and systematic reviews/metaanalysis. Methods: The methodological quality of existing systematic reviews/meta-analysis was evaluated using the AMSTAR scale. Influencing factors of methodological quality were statistically analyzed using RevMan 5.3 software. The included systematic reviews/metaanalysis must include the following characteristics:(1) methods using systematic evaluation/meta-analysis,(2) probiotic intervention, and (3) language limitation to Chinese and English. Results: The AMSTAR score was 5-9 (7.42 ± 1.22), and the quality is above average. The factors affecting the methodological quality are the number of authors and whether they cooperate with the institution. Conclusions: Studies have shown that current systematic reviews/meta-analysis of the effectiveness of probiotics on IBS does not fully comply with methodological quality standards, and therefore the methodological quality of research in this area needs to be strengthened. To better clarify how probiotics affect IBS, future systematic reviews and meta-analyses should not only follow methodological quality standards but also include more effective outcome measures, and they should focus more on the discussion of research results. We look forward to the development of higher-quality randomized controlled trials in the future.
文摘Objective: To try to give an objective evaluation on the clinical research situation about acupuncture treatment of facial paralysis in the past 50 years and try to provide a possible evidence for clinical practice. Methods: All papers are searched and assessed according to the international standards and clinical epidemiology. Results: There is no systematic review (SR) on acupuncture treatment of facial palsy in a total of 1021 articles enlisted in the present paper. Comparing with the quantity of the descriptive studies and expert opinions (constituting 84.84%), that of the randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and clinical controlled trials (CCTs) is smaller (constituting 15.16%), besides, the quality of RCTs and CCTs is unsatisfactory. Conclusion: At present, the quantity and quality of studies with RCTs about acupuncture treatment of facial paralysis can’t meet the need of clinical practice, and in order to improve the therapeutic effect, a higher quality of RCTs and SR is required.
基金This work was supported by the Science Foundation of Heilongjiang Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine(No.ZHY18-021).
文摘In recent years,microbial metabolomics,a new field that has attracted wide attention,provides a map of metabolic pathways and clarifies the interaction mechanism between microorganisms and hosts.Many microorganisms are found in the human intestine,oral cavity,vagina,etc.Probiotics could maintain the good health of the host,while pathogens and an imbalance of bacterial flora lead to a series of diseases of the body and mind.Metabolomics is a science for qualitative and quantitative analysis of all metabolites in an organism or biological system,which could provide key information to understand the related metabolic pathways and associated changes.This approach analyzes the final products of cellular regulatory processes,the level of which can be regarded as the ultimate response of the biological system to genetic or environmental changes.Microbial metabolomics has been widely used in different research fields,such as microbial phenotypic classification,mutant screening,metabolic pathways,microbial metabolic engineering,fermentation engineering monitoring and optimization,microbial environmental pollution,and so on.However,there are only a few reviews on microbial metabolomics of probiotics and pathogens.This review summarizes the main methodologies,including sample preparation,identification of metabolites,data processing,and analysis.Recent applications in microbial metabolomics of probiotics and pathogens are also described.This paper first summarized the research progress and application of microbial metabolomics from two aspects:probiotics and pathogenic bacteria.Probiotics and pathogenic bacteria do not exist independently most of the time;hence,these were reviewed in the research field of coexistence of probiotics and pathogenic bacteria,which was subdivided into important microbial research fields closely related to human health,including the human gut,oral cavity,food,and nutrition-related microorganisms.Then,the main problems and trends associated with microbial metabolomics are discussed.