bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Outcomes of COVID-19 in Patients With Cancer: A Closer Look at Pre-Emptive Routine Screening Strategies
Authors: Xie Zhuoer , Saliba Antoine N. , Abeykoon Jithma , Majeed Umair , Almquist Daniel R. , Wiedmeier-Nutor Julia E. , Bezerra Evandro , Andrade-Gonzalez Xavier , Hickman Ashley , Sorenson Karl , Rakshit Sagar , Wee Christopher , Tella Sri Harsha , Kommalapati Anuhya , Abdallah Nadine , Pritchett Joshua , De Andrade Mariza , Uprety Dipesh , Badley Andrew , Manochakian Rami , Ailawadhi Sikander , Bryce Alan H. , Hubbard Joleen M. , Gangat Naseema , Thompson Carrie A. , Witzig Thomas E. , McWilliams Robert R. , Leventakos Konstantinos , Halfdanarson Thorvardur R.
Published: June 2021

PURPOSE:

The benefit of routine pre-emptive screening for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infections in patients with cancer before cancer-directed therapies is unclear. Herein, we characterize the outcomes of a cohort of patients with cancer who were diagnosed with COVID-19 by routine screening (RS) in comparison with those diagnosed on the basis of clinical suspicion or exposure history (nonroutine screening [NRS]).

METHODS:

A multisite prospective observational study was conducted at three major and five satellite campuses of the Mayo Clinic Cancer Center between March 18 and July 31, 2020. The primary outcome was COVID-19–related hospital admission. Secondary outcomes included intensive care unit admissions and all-cause mortality.

RESULTS:

Five thousand four hundred fifty-two patients underwent RS in the outpatient setting only, and 44 (0.81%) were diagnosed with COVID-19. RS detected 19 additional patients from the scheduled inpatient admissions for surgical or interventional procedures or inpatient chemotherapy. One hundred sixty-one patients were diagnosed with COVID-19 on the basis of NRS. COVID-19–related hospitalization rate (17.5% v 26.7%; P = .14), intensive care unit admission (1.6% v 5.6%; P = .19), and mortality (4.8% v 3.7%; P = .72) were not significantly different between the RS and NRS groups. In the multivariable analysis, age ≥ 60 years (odds ratio, 4.4; P = .023) and an absolute lymphocyte count ≤ 1.4 × 109/L (odds ratio, 9.2; P = .002) were independent predictors of COVID-19–related hospital admission.

CONCLUSION:

The COVID-19 positivity rate was low on the basis of RS. Comparing the hospital admission and mortality outcomes with the NRS cohort, there were no significant differences. The value of routine pre-emptive screening of asymptomatic patients with cancer for COVID-19 remains low.
New Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Fibrosis Progression Associate With the Risk of Incident Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Zuo Guangmin , Xuan Liping , Xin Zhuojun , Xu Yu , Lu Jieli , Chen Yuhong , Dai Meng , Zhang Di , Wang Weiqing , Li Mian , Bi Yufang , Ning Guang , Xu Min
Published: June 2021

Context

Little is known about the link between nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) evolution and incident chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Objective

We aim to assess the associations of NALFD status changes and NAFLD fibrosis progression with the risk of incident CKD.

Methods

We conducted a community-based prospective study that included participants aged 40 years or older and free of CKD at baseline in 2010, with follow-up evaluations after a mean of 4.4 years. NAFLD was diagnosed by ultrasonography and NAFLD fibrosis score (NFS) was used to evaluate fibrosis stage and progression. CKD was defined by estimated glomerular filtration rate or urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio. All the measurements were performed at baseline and follow-up examination.

Results

Among 4042 participants with 4 NAFLD status change groups, incident NAFLD was associated with an increased risk of incident CKD (odds ratio [OR] = 1.44; 95% CI, 1.003-2.06; P = 0.048) compared with non-NAFLD after adjustments for the confounders, including evolution of diabetes, hypertension, and obesity, in addition to the baseline levels. However, the risk of incident CKD was not significantly different between NAFLD resolution and persistent NAFLD. Among 534 participants in the persistent NAFLD group, fibrosis progression from low NFS to intermediate or high NFS was associated with a significantly increased risk of incident CKD compared with stable fibrosis in low NFS (OR = 2.82; 95% CI, 1.22-6.56; P = 0.016).

Conclusion

NAFLD development and fibrosis progression are associated with increased risk of incident CKD.
Glucose-lowering Drugs and Hospitalization for Heart Failure: A Systematic Review and Additive-effects Network Meta-analysis With More Than 500 000 Patient-years
Authors: Cintra Riobaldo M , Nogueira Ana Claudia , Bonilha Isabella , Luchiari Beatriz M , Coelho-Filho Otavio R , Coelho Otavio R , Schwartzmann Pedro , Muscellie Elza , Nadruz Wilson , Carvalho Luiz Sergio F , Sposito Andrei C
Published: June 2021

Background

Sodium glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) prevent hospitalization resulting from heart failure (HHF). However, patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus use multiple antihyperglycemic drugs to achieve glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) targets. In these drug combinations, the risk of HHF is unpredictable and so is the parallel effect of glucose-lowering.

Purpose

To examine the impact of antihyperglycemic drugs and their association on HHF.

Data Sources

Forty randomized controlled trials (RCTs) reporting HHF.

Study Selection

Published RCTs were the data source.

Data Extraction

Incidence rates of HHF.

Data Synthesis

Random additive-effects network meta-analysis showed that metformin (P = 0.55), sulfonylureas (P = 0.51), glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor-agonist (P = 0.16), and dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitors (DPP4is; P = 0.54) were neutral on the risk of HHF. SGLT2is and SGLT2is + DPP4is reduced the risk of HHF with a hazard ratio (HR) of 0.68 (95% CI, 0.60-0.76; P < 0.0001) and 0.70 (95% CI, 0.60-0.81; P < 0.0001), respectively. Increased risk of HHF was associated with thiazolidinediones (TZDs) as monotherapy or in combination with DPP4is (HR: 1.45; 95% CI, 1.18-1.78; P = 0.0004) and 1.49 (95% CI, 1.18-1.88; P = 0.0008), respectively. Regardless of the therapy, a 1% reduction in HbA1c reduced the risk of HHF by 31.3% (95% CI, 9-48; P = 0.009).

Limitations

There are no data to verify drug combinations available for clinical use and to discriminate the effect of drugs within each of the therapeutic classes.

Conclusions

The risk of HHF is reduced by SGLT2is as monotherapy or in combination with DPP4is and increased by TZDs as monotherapy or in combination. Glucose-lowering provides an additive effect of reducing HHF.
Postprandial Hypotension in the Intensive Care Unit Due To Portal Hypertension and Coronavirus Disease 2019: A Case Report
Authors: Palmon Philip , Glazer Joshua M. , Long Micah T.
Published: June 2021

A 49-year-old man with cirrhosis and portal hypertension was admitted for acute respiratory distress syndrome secondary to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia. His course was complicated by postprandial hypotension (PPH)—episodic hemodynamic collapse that occurred minutes after enteral administration of medications or fluids. Octreotide, which reduces splanchnic pooling and can treat PPH, successfully prevented ongoing events. PPH is associated with mortality in the outpatient setting, and at-risk patients include the elderly and those with autonomic dysfunction, including those with COVID-19. Portal hypertension is a likely additional risk factor that has not been previously described. Octreotide is the mainstay of PPH prophylaxis.
Exocrine pancreas proteases regulate β-cell proliferation in zebrafish ciliopathy models and in murine systems
Authors: Hostelley Timothy L. , Nesmith Jessica E. , Larkin Emily , Jones Amanda , Boyes Daniel , Leitch Carmen C. , Fontaine Magali , Zaghloul Norann A.
Published: June 2021

Pancreatic β-cells are a critical cell type in the pathology of diabetes. Models of genetic syndromes featuring diabetes can provide novel mechanistic insights into regulation of β-cells in the context of disease. We previously examined β-cell mass in models of two ciliopathies, Alström Syndrome (AS) and Bardet-Biedl Syndrome (BBS), which are similar in the presence of metabolic phenotypes, including obesity, but exhibit strikingly different rates of diabetes. Zebrafish models of these disorders show deficient β-cells with diabetes in AS models and an increased β-cells absent diabetes in BBS models, indicating β-cell generation or maintenance that correlates with disease prevalence. Using transcriptome analyses, differential expression of several exocrine pancreas proteases with directionality that was consistent with β-cell numbers were identified. Based on these lines of evidence, we hypothesized that pancreatic proteases directly impact β-cells. In the present study, we examined this possibility and found that pancreatic protease genes contribute to proper maintenance of normal β-cell numbers, proliferation in larval zebrafish, and regulation of AS and BBS β-cell phenotypes. Our data suggest that these proteins can be taken up directly by cultured β-cells and ex vivo murine islets, inducing proliferation in both. Endogenous uptake of pancreatic proteases by β-cells was confirmed in vivo using transgenic zebrafish and in intact murine pancreata. Taken together, these findings support a novel proliferative signaling role for exocrine pancreas proteases through interaction with endocrine β-cells.
Morphological mechanism allowing a parasitic leech, Ozobranchus jantseanus (Rhynchobdellida: Ozobranchidae), to survive in ultra-low temperatures
Authors: Gu Shengli , Liu Jianjun , Xiong Lei , Dong Jinxiu , Sun Entao , Hu Haoran , Yang Mengli , Nie Liuwang
Published: June 2021

Ozobranchus jantseanus is the largest metazoan known to survive in liquid nitrogen without pretreatment to date; however, the mechanism underlying this tolerance remains unclear. In this study, the first analyses of histological and morphological changes in normal, frozen, and dehydrated states were performed. Adults survived after direct placement in liquid nitrogen for 96 h, with a survival rate of approximately 86.7%. The leech could withstand rapid desiccation and its survival rate after rehydration was 100% when its water loss was below about 84.8%. After freezing, desiccation, and ethanol dehydration, the leech immediately formed a hemispherical shape. Particularly during drying, an obvious transparent glass-like substance was observed on surface. Scanning electron microscopy revealed many pores on the surface of the posterior sucker, creating a sponge-like structure, which may help to rapidly expel water, and a hemispherical shape may protect the internal organs by contraction and folding reconstruction in the anterior–posterior direction. A substantial amount of mucopolysaccharides on the surface and acid cells and collagen fibers in the body, all of which contained substantial polysaccharides, may play a key protective role during freezing. Our results indicate that the resistance of leeches to ultra-low temperatures can be explained by cryoprotective dehydration/vitrification strategies.

This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.
Differential gene regulation in DAPT-treated Hydra reveals candidate direct Notch signalling targets
Authors: Moneer Jasmin , Siebert Stefan , Krebs Stefan , Cazet Jack , Prexl Andrea , Pan Qin , Juliano Celina , Böttger Angelika
Published: June 2021

In Hydra, Notch inhibition causes defects in head patterning and prevents differentiation of proliferating nematocyte progenitor cells into mature nematocytes. To understand the molecular mechanisms by which the Notch pathway regulates these processes, we performed RNA-seq and identified genes that are differentially regulated in response to 48 h of treating the animals with the Notch inhibitor DAPT. To identify candidate direct regulators of Notch signalling, we profiled gene expression changes that occur during subsequent restoration of Notch activity and performed promoter analyses to identify RBPJ transcription factor-binding sites in the regulatory regions of Notch-responsive genes. Interrogating the available single-cell sequencing data set revealed the gene expression patterns of Notch-regulated Hydra genes. Through these analyses, a comprehensive picture of the molecular pathways regulated by Notch signalling in head patterning and in interstitial cell differentiation in Hydra emerged. As prime candidates for direct Notch target genes, in addition to Hydra (Hy)Hes, we suggest Sp5 and HyAlx. They rapidly recovered their expression levels after DAPT removal and possess Notch-responsive RBPJ transcription factor-binding sites in their regulatory regions.
Essays on labour economics
Authors: Κακουλίδου Θεώνη
Published: June 2021

Η διδακτορική διατριβή εξετάζει τις επιπτώσεις που είχαν οι μεταρρυθμίσεις στο θεσμικό πλαίσιο του κατώτατου μισθού που εισήχθησαν σύμφωνα με το Δεύτερο Πρόγραμμα Οικονομικής Προσαρμογής. Η διατριβή περιλαμβάνει τρία εμπειρικά κείμενα καθώς και ένα εισαγωγικό κεφάλαιο στο οποίο αναφέρονται οι κύριες μεταρρυθμίσεις που έγιναν βάσει των τριών Προγραμμάτων Οικονομικής Προσαρμογής. Η θεματολογία και των τριών κειμένων εμπίπτει στον τομέα των οικονομικών της εργασίας. Σε κάθε κείμενο, εξετάζει και διαφορετική μεταρρύθμιση με τη χρήση οικονομετρικών μοντέλων, ώστε να εξετασθούν οι επιπτώσεις που είχαν στην απασχόληση, τη συμμετοχή στην αγορά εργασίας και τις εξαγωγές. Η κύρια οικονομετρική μέθοδος που εφαρμόζεται είναι οι διαφορές των διαφορών.
Decaffeinated light-roasted green coffee and green tea extract combination improved metabolic parameters and modulated inflammatory genes in metabolic syndrome rats
Authors: Saifur Rohman Mohammad , Lukitasari Mifetika , Nugroho Dwi Adi , Ramadhiani Risa , Widodo Nashi , Kusumastuty Inggita , Nugrahini Nur Ida Panca
Published: June 2021

Background: Individually, green tea and green coffee have been extensively studied for mitigation of metabolic syndrome (MS) in both rats and humans; however, their combined effect requires further investigation. Thus, we compared the metabolic effect of combining green tea and decaffeinated light roasted green coffee on MS in rats.

Methods: An MS animal model was constructed by feeding Sprague-Dawley rats with a high-fat-high-sucrose (HFHS) diet for eight weeks and a low dose of streptozotocin (STZ) injection at week 2. Rats fed with HFHS diets and injected with STZ successfully developed MS phenotypes, indicated by higher body weight, systolic blood pressure, plasma triglyceride level, plasma fasting blood glucose level, and lower plasma HDL-C level, compared to those fed with a normal chow diet. Subsequently, MS rats were continuously fed with HFHS and divided into four groups: MS rats, MS with 300 mg/bw.t green tea extract (GT), MS with 200 mg/bw.t green coffee extract (GC), and MS with combined green tea and green coffee extract (CM) for nine weeks.

Results: Combining green tea and green coffee have synergistic effects on reducing plasma fasting blood glucose and triglyceride level. Inflammatory markers both in plasma and liver tissue robustly decreased in CM group rats. However, the reduction of systolic blood pressure was observed only in GT and CM groups. Moreover, all treatment resulted in an increase in plasma HDL-C level in MS rats.

Conclusions: Our data highlighted that, in MS animal models, combined green tea and decaffeinated light roasted green coffee augment their several individual beneficial effects of improved metabolic parameters and modulated inflammatory genes.
Phytochemicals With Anti 5-alpha-reductase Activity: A Prospective For Prostate Cancer Treatment
Authors: Azizi Aziemah , Mumin Nuramalina H , Shafqat Naeem
Published: June 2021

Prostate cancer (CaP) is one of the leading causes of death in men worldwide. Much attention has been given on its prevention and treatment strategies, including targeting the regulation of 5-alpha-Reductase (5αR) enzyme activity, aimed to limit the progression of CaP by inhibiting the conversion of potent androgen dihydrotestosterone from testosterone that is thought to play a role in pathogenesis of CaP, by using the 5-alpha-Reductase inhibitors (5αRis) such as finasteride and dutasteride. However, 5αRis are reported to exhibit numerous adverse side effects, for instance erectile dysfunction, ejaculatory dysfunction and loss of libido. This has led to a surge of interests on plant-derived alternatives that might offer favourable side effects and less toxic profiles. Phytochemicals from plants are shown to exhibit numerous medicinal properties in various studies targeting many major illnesses including CaP. Therefore, in this review, we aim to discuss on the use of phytochemicals namely phytosterols, polyphenols and fatty acids, found in various plants with proven anti-CaP properties, as an alternative herbal CaP medicines as well as to outline their inhibitory activities on 5αRs isozymes based on their structural similarities with current 5αRis as part of CaP treatment approaches.
Effective principal leadership behaviors to improve the teacher performance and the student achievement
Authors: Pardosi Jawatir , Utari Tria Ina
Published: June 2021

The principal’s role as a leader is crucial in improving the teacher performance and student achievement. However, it still remains unknown what kinds of school leadership behaviors that are effective to improve teacher performance and student achievement. This study aims to determine the level of significance of the effect of (1) the quality of principal's leadership behaviors on teacher performance, (2) the quality of principal's leadership behaviors on student achievement, and (3) the teacher performance on student achievement.This study is a quantitative descriptive research. The study population was 317 teachers with 281 teachers as the samples. The data collection technique was carried out through questionnaires, participant observation, and teacher performance appraisals. The data analysis technique used the Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). The results of this study showed a significant (5%) influence between: (1) the quality of the principal's leadership behaviors on the teacher performance where the estimated rate was 0.89 with the value of -t = 3.23> 1.96. The higher the quality of the principal's leadership behaviors had become, then it increased the quality of the teachers’ performance; (2) the quality of the principal's leadership behaviors on the level of student achievement where the estimated rate was 0.77 with the value of -t = 2.86> 1.96; and (3) the level of teacher performance on the level of learning achievement where the estimated rate was 0.92 with the value of -t = 4.45> 1.96. The structural model of learning outcomes showed that the loading factor of report cards had a greater effect of 0.995 when it compared to the school exam scores with an effect of 0.897. Effective principal leadership behaviors were limited to (a) the relationship between leaders and followers, (b) task structure, and (c) position power.
From frustration to enlightenment: experiences of student exchange program awardees in Taiwan
Authors: Silalahi Wolter Parlindungan , Sitorus Friska Ria
Published: June 2021

Background: Studying abroad is one of the most exciting experiences for a college student who is running a student exchange program, as it creates opportunities to learn, work, solve problems, and ensure a secured life. However, Indonesians who are into student exchange programs face some difficulties in adjusting to their new environment. They experience awkwardness in the use of advanced equipment from technology and cultural aspects. This study investigates the experiences of two Indonesian students who participated for a semester at a Taiwanese university. It aims to explore the Indonesian student exchange program awardees’ experiences by examining both the obstacles and benefits of attending the Taiwanese university.

Methods: This study used qualitative data analysis. Data were collected through a semi-structured interview, informal participant observations, and a set of open and closed-ended questions. Two Indonesian undergraduate students who belonged to the same major, year, and university were recruited to act as ambassadors.

Results: The two students reported facing some problems but felt more independent and became more adaptable. They met with new people and explored new places, and learned much in terms of teaching pedagogy and personal development from the 21st-century classroom pedagogy, which was important for their future carrier in education. Aside from being able to feel the 21st-century classroom environment, they were able to learn the host language and culture, which enriched their insights. Five main findings emerged: departure and journey, difficulties in settling in, inability to use technology facilities, meeting new people and exploring new places, and 21st century classroom environment.

Conclusions: Despite the challenges that are associated with being a student exchange awardee, there are vast opportunities for self-development and learning the ropes associated with teaching from the 21st-century classroom pedagogy.
Knowledge sharing and discovery across heterogeneous research infrastructures
Authors: Farshidi Siamak , Liao Xiaofeng , Li Na , Goldfarb Doron , Magagna Barbara , Stocker Markus , Jeffery Keith , Thijsse Peter , Pichot Christian , Petzold Andreas , Zhao Zhiming
Published: June 2021

Research infrastructures play an increasingly essential role in scientific research. They provide rich data sources for scientists, such as services and software packages, via catalog and virtual research environments. However, such research infrastructures are typically domain-specific and often not connected. Accordingly, researchers and practitioners face fundamental challenges introduced by fragmented knowledge from heterogeneous, autonomous sources with complicated and uncertain relations in particular research domains. Additionally, the exponential growth rate of knowledge in a specific domain surpasses human experts’ ability to formalize and capture tacit and explicit knowledge efficiently. Thus, a knowledge management system is required to discover knowledge effectively, automate the knowledge acquisition based on artificial intelligence approaches, integrate the captured knowledge, and deliver consistent knowledge to agents, research communities, and end-users. In this study, we present the development process of a knowledge management system for ENVironmental Research Infrastructures, which are crucial pillars for environmental scientists in their quest for understanding and interpreting the complex Earth System. Furthermore, we report the challenges we have faced and discuss the lessons learned during the development process.
Effects of total replacement of dietary fish oil by vegetable oils on growth performance, nutritional quality and fatty acid profiles of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) at optimum and high temperature conditions
Authors: Dernekbaşı Seval , Parlak Akyüz Ayşe , Karayücel İsmihan
Published: June 2021

The present study investigated the effects of total replacement of dietary fish oil by different vegetable oils on growth performance, nutritional quality and fatty acid profiles of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) at optimum and high temperature conditions. Five iso-nitrogenous and iso-lipidic diets including 100% fish oil and vegetable oils were prepared for rainbow trout fingerlings with an average weight of 11.27±0.01 g. After the fish were fed experimental diets for 9 weeks at the optimum temperature (17.74±0.01°C), all groups were fed an FO diet containing only fish oil for 4-weeks at the upper optimum temperature conditions (19.28±0.11°C). In both feeding trials, experimental fish were hand-fed ad libitium twice a day. Results showed that growth performance and feeding efficiency were significantly better (p<0.05) in groups fed by VO-based diets compared to groups fed by FO based diet at optimum temperature. Survival was 100% in CANO, SFO, CO PNO groups and 94.12±3.39% in FO (control) group at the end of the 9 weeks. Growth, feed consumption and survival of fish fed the upper-optimum temperature were significantly differed (p<0.05). In particular, while the survival rate of the groups fed with vegetable oil-based diets at optimum temperature and then fed only fish oil remained 100%, this rate decreased to 54.17±1.39% in the control group. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, 20:5n-3), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6n-3) and n-3 PUFA of fish fed by VO based diets were low. When all groups were fed only FO diet for 4 weeks at upper-optimum temperatures, EPA, DHA and n-3 PUFA ratios increased. In addition, after the upper-optimum temperature trial, increases in the nutritional quality indices of fish meat were also detected.
The pleomorphic adenomas of the small salivary glands in the Department of Maxillofacial Surgery in a Provincial Hospital in Rzeszow
Authors: De Sternberg Stojałowski Sebastian , Lewandowski Bogumił , Marynowski Bartosz , Brodowski Robert , Mucha Przemysław , Bielak Kaja
Published: June 2021

Pleomorphic adenomas are non-malignant tumours originating in epithelium. They are most often found in the parotid gland. Their location apart from the parotid gland is quite rare. That type of tumour is usually treated surgically. The aim of this paper is to describe own observations of the symptoms of pleomorphic adenomas that were not located in the parotid gland. Analysis of the clinical material was based on retrospective assessment of 41 patients hospitalised in the Department of Maxillofacial Surgery during the period 1991-2010 because of pleomorphic adenomas located in the small salivary glands. The group consisted of 24 women and 17 men aged between 24 and 79. Tumours were most often round or oval, between 0.7 cm and 3.5 cm and found in the palate area. All patients were treated surgically. Pleomorphic adenomas of small salivary glands, similarly to tumours located in the parotid gland, were more often found in women. Non-symptomatic course of the illness was the main reason behind late diagnosis. Tumours from the group of pleomorphic adenomas originated from small mouth glands were most often found in the hard palate.
Postprandial hyperglycemia changed fucosylated pattern of the oesophageal epithelial barrier activity through the nitrogen oxide
Authors: Zayachkivska Oksana , Hrycevych Nazar , Yaschenko Antonina
Published: June 2021

The present study was designed to evaluate the role of postprandial hyperglycemia (PHG) on oesophageal epithelial barrier (OEB) integrity via evaluation expression of fucosylated glycans by PFA and LABA labeling and mechanism in formation PHG induced pre-ulcer lesions through the NO/NOS activity in OEB and therapeutic potential and mechamism of L-Tryptophan influence on OEB lesions. Fucosaylated glycans are contributed in OEB integrity. NO/NOS activity seem to play a critical role in OEB ulcerogenesis because blocking its activity aggravates experimental OEB lesions, most likely through the inflammation, vascular and perivascular changes.
Evaluation of physicochemical and mechanical properties of polymeric formulations for use in the oral cavity
Authors: Nowak Karolina Maria , Bodek Kazimiera Henryka
Published: June 2021

The aim of this research was to create and investigate a formulation that could be placed within post-extraction alveolus. The main material used in this work is a natural polymer, known as microcrystalline chitosan (MCCh). It was formulated as an aqueous hydrogel with the addition of the cross-linking agent (CaCl2) and various plasticizers (propylene glycol, glycerol and sorbitol). The swelling of the preparations was tested by three different methods under completely different acceptor fluids such as distilled water, phosphate buffer and simulated saliva. The pH was measured on the surfaces of each formulation, as well as the pH of the acceptor fluids; evidently, both of them had a similar pH to that of the oral cavity. Additionally, mechanical properties of the tested materials such as hardness, springiness and cohesiveness were evaluated. Based on research, the best compositions of materials were chosen to obtain preparations of the desired geometry and mechanical characteristics. The results from the study are able to prove that MCCh not only creates a neutral environment within the oral cavity but also, due to its significant absorptive properties, can reduce exu date and po ten tially be considered as a new carrier for medicinal substances used in dental implantation and management.
Does adiponectin play a role in gestational diabetes?
Authors: Matyjaszek-Matuszek Beata , Lenart-Lipińska Monika , Rudzki Grzegorz
Published: June 2021

Current literature provides contradictory information on the role of adiponectin (AdipoQ) in the course of gestational diabetes (GDM). The aim of the study was to measure AdipoQ concentration in blood of women with GDM and to find relationships between this adipokine and clinical and biochemical parameters. The study group included 50 women diagnosed with GDM between 24 and 28 weeks of gestation who underwent routine prenatal tests for GDM in compliance with the guidelines of the Polish Diabetes Association. All patients underwent clinical and laboratory evaluation at GDM diagnosis. Laboratory tests included serum AdipoQ concentration, fasting glucose, fasting insulin, OGTT and lipid parameters in serum. AdipoQ concentrations did not differ significantly between the groups during gestation (p=0.7054). In the subgroup (2h glucose level in the OGTT 200 mg/dl) the concentration of AdipoQ tended to be decreased as compared to the remaining patients from the study and control groups, though the decline was insignificant (p=0.0541). The concentration of AdipoQ in the subgroup was about 20% lower than in the other patients from the study group. No correlations, except with the neonatal weight (r= - 0.29, p<0.05), were found between AdipoQ and the studied parameters. The GDM group showed significantly elevated fasting glucose, insulin, HOMA-IR values, total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol and triglicerydes, as compared with the control group (p.05). These results lead to the conclusion that women with newly diagnosed and promptly treated GDM have normal adiponectin level. A negative correlation between AdipoQ level and the birth weight may suggest that this adipokine plays a role in the control of the birth weight especially in the incidence of macrosomia.
Screening of the antioxidant potentials of polar extracts from fruits of Eryngium planum and Eryngium amethystinum
Authors: Wojtanowski Krzysztof Kamil , Skalicka-Woźniak Krystyna , Głowniak Kazimierz , Mroczek Tomasz
Published: June 2021

The research shows the antioxidant potential of methanolic and methanolic-water extracts of two species Eryngium amethystinum and Eryngium planum using the β-carotene-linoleic acid assay. The fruits of both species were the source for preparing the samples. The antioxidant measurements were done by UV-VIS spectrophotometric using the phenomenon of bleaching of solution of β-carotene during its oxidation. The results are presented as AA50 value, which refers to the concentration of a substance needed to inhibit 50% oxidation of a sample and the standard activity coefficient (SAC), which corresponds to the amount of reference substance (trolox) to which it has the same potential like the tested substance.
The effect of selenium supplementation in organic and in organic form on oxidant balance in rat heart and femoral muscle
Authors: Musik Irena , Kiełczykowska Małgorzata , Kocot Joanna
Published: June 2021

Total antioxidant status (TAS), activity of antioxidant enzymes - superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), concentrations of non-enzymatic antioxidants - ascorbic acid (AA) and reduced glutathione (GSH) as well as concentration of lipid peroxidation marker - malonyldialdehyde (MDA) were determined in heart and femoral muscle of rats receiving different selecompounds (inorganic selenite and organic selenosemicarbazide of chain structure and selenazoline of ring structure). Chain selenosemicarbazide markedly decreased TAS values vs. control without Se-supplementation in heart. GPx was significantly depressed vs. control in heart of animals receiving organic selenium. Ring selenazoline decreased heart AA, whereas selenosemicarbazide increased heart GSH. Inorganic selenite diminished femoral muscle GSH. Selenium supplementation distinctly inhibited process of lipid peroxidation - MDA was decreased in Se-given animals, particularly in heart. As organic ring selenocompound depressed heart MDA to the highest degree, did not impair total antioxidant status and caused no disturbance of antioxidant barrier in femoral muscle, it could be suggested that further research may reveal possibilities of its application as a Se-supplement.
Investigating Day and Nighttime Variability of Major Water-Soluble Inorganic Species and Role of Reactive Nitrogen Species in PM2.5 and PM10 - A Two Year Study
Authors: Chandra Subhash , Kulshrestha Monika J , Singh Ruchi
Published: June 2021

The study reports day and nighttime temporal variation of prominent water-soluble inorganic species (WSIS) of fine and coarse mode particulate matter at a site in central Delhi for 2012 and 2013. The two years’ concentrations of major ionic species (NH4+, K+, Ca2+ and Mg2+ and NO3-, SO42-) showed that mean levels of both ∑cations and ∑anions were higher in nighttime than daytime in both PM2.5 and PM10. Moreover, the difference of mean levels in daytime and nighttime was noticed higher in PM2.5 compared to PM10. Among anions, more variation was observed for NO3-, i.e., ~49% higher level in nighttime compared to daytime, while~9% higher values in the nighttime for SO42-. Higher variation of NO3- level might be due to active participation of NOx in daytime photo-oxidation process. Among cations,Ca2+ and Mg2+ showed higher concentration in daytime compared to nighttime. Higher day and nighttime variation of Ca2+ and Mg2+ in coarse particulate matter suggested their dominance in PM10 compared to PM2.5. In PM10, the highest Ca2+ concentration was observed in daytime summer and least in nighttime monsoon, indicating the role of loose soil and meteorological conditions. The higher daytime SO42- concentration in monsoon compared to summer show edits significant formation as secondary aerosols in fine mode. The reactive nitrogen species NO3- and NH4+ were correlated during the day and nighttime in PM2.5 and PM10.Moreover, NH4+ was highly correlated to SO42- and NO3-, mainly in the form of (NH4)2SO4 and NH4NO3.
Potential of Biotechnology in Phytoremediation
Authors: Khan Misbah , Mir Javid I
Published: June 2021

The accumulation of toxic substances involving the inorganic and organic contaminants in the soil is a global problem. Status of the World's Soil Resources Report (SWSR) recognized soil pollution as one of the main reasons affecting global soils and the ecosystem services provided by them. However, transgenic approaches utilizing the biodegradation capabilities of microbes and mammals into plants pledge an efficient and eco-friendly approach to renewing the environment. An effective method of phytoremediation involves an enhanced rate of pollutant uptake by the plant, followed by the detoxification of the chemicals absorbed or translocated. It also involves the production of genetically modified herbicide-resistant plants for herbicide remediation and exploits the principles of biotechnology and molecular biology for the introduction and improvement of potentially superior genes into plants. This review discusses the various transgenic approaches involved in the phytoremediation of persistent organic pollutants, metals, metalloids, and explosives. Besides, it also focuses on the limitations of transgenics and provides an insight into the future potential of emerging biotechnological tools and techniques in this field.
An update on radiation protection and the ionizing radiation regulations
Authors: Feinberg Lee W , Nixon Paul P
Published: June 2021

In this article, the risks associated with dental X-ray examinations, the doses from different types of dental x-ray examinations, the principles of radiation protection and the key points set out in the IRR 17 and IRMER 17 legislation, with emphasis on the relevant changes between these new sets of legislation and the preceding IRR 99 and IRMER 2000 legislation, are considered.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: An update and overview for the dental team on radiation protection and the relevant legislation.
‘DIY orthodontics’ – ‘don't do it yourself’!
Authors: Townend Georgia C , Misra Sangeeta
Published: June 2021

Do-it-yourself (DIY) orthodontics is becoming more popular as the demand for straight teeth increases, particularly with the ever-growing pressures of social media. In this article, the trends seen, the patients it attracts and what is being done, both nationally and internationally, to warn patients about the adverse effects this new phenomenon can have on dental health are discussed.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: This article outlines the risks, trends, patient motivators and attempts to raise awareness associated with DIY orthodontics.
A case of grafted repair of an oro-antral fistula following non-surgical periodontal therapy
Authors: Heggie Claudia , Smorthit Kelly , Sood Banoo , Thayer Tom
Published: June 2021

Oro-antral communication is a well-recognized complication of dental extractions in the maxilla, but is rarely reported to occur from periodontal causes. This article describes the formation of an oro-antral communication following non-surgical periodontal therapy, and its subsequent management.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: This article presents a previously unreported formation of an oro-antral communication following non-surgical periodontal therapy, in a patient with localized periodontitis and presence of a root cementum defect. It is of relevance to all dentists managing periodontal disease.
Polypharmacy and multimorbidity
Authors: Robertson Deborah
Published: June 2021

Deborah Robertson provides an overview of recently published articles that may be of interest to non-medical prescribers. Should you wish to look at any of the papers in more detail, a full reference is provided
Soil macrofauna diversity in andisol after eight years of Mount Sinabung eruption in Sumatra, Indonesia
Authors: Sembiring Mariani , MUNAWAROH HIDAYATULAH , MUKHLIS MUKHLIS , HIDAYAT BENNY , SABRINA TENGKU
Published: June 2021

Abstract. Sembiring M, Munawaroh H, Mukhlis, Hidayat B, Sabrina T. 2021. Soil macrofauna diversity in andisol after eight years of Mount Sinabung eruption in Sumatra, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 22: 3024-3030. The eruption of Mount Sinabung resulted in volcanic ash covering the soil of various thicknesses. That will affect the population and diversity of macrofauna in it. This research aimed to determine the Andisol soil macrofauna in Karo District with various thicknesses of volcanic ash covering from Mount Sinabung. This research was conducted in May 2019. Plots were placed in four locations, Location I: processed land (0 cm), Location II: Land covered by thin ash (?2 cm), Location III: Land covered by medium ash (2-5 cm), Location IV: Land covered by thick ash (?5 cm). Sampling was conducted by using the Pitfall trap, Monolith squared, and Hand sorting methods. The research results indicated that the thicker the volcanic ash covering the soil surface, it would reduce soil moisture, soil water content, organic C, and soil pH, but on the other hand, increase the soil temperature. A total of 20 species were able to live on the Andisols affected by the eruption of Mount Sinabung.
The effect of magnetized seawater on physiological and biochemical properties of different rice cultivars
Authors: Sutiyanti Ekris , Rachmawati Diah
Published: June 2021

Abstract. Sutiyanti E, Rachmawati D. 2021. The effect of magnetized seawater on physiological and biochemical properties of different rice cultivars. Biodiversitas 22: 3083-3091. Seawater is an alternative source to overcome the reduced availability of freshwater in agricultural practices. However, seawater cannot be used directly because it has high salinity that causes various disturbances in plant growth and development. Magnetic field treatment can be used for seawater desalination. The objective of this study was to analyze the potential of magnetized seawater for agricultural irrigation by observing the effect of magnetized seawater on physiological and biochemical properties of different rice cultivars. This research was conducted in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with  3 research factors, which were 2 rice cultivars ('IR 64' and 'Inpari 35'), 2 levels of salinity (0 and 10 dS m-1), and 4  types of magnetic treatment (0 untreated with magnetic device, 1, 2 and 3 cycles treated with magnetic device). Variables including plant growth (plant height, fresh weight and dry weight), physiological characters (chlorophyll content, carotenoid content, membrane stability index, relative water content, proline content) and biochemical properties (superoxide dismutase, malondialdehyde, H2O2 and anthocyanin content) were observed. Magnetized seawater 3 cycles enhanced growth, physiology and biochemical parameters of ‘IR 64’ and ‘Inpari 35’ in 0 and 10 dS m-1 level salinity with decreasing level salinity of water to minimize effect of salinity. The effect of magnetized seawater treatment is more visible to increase the growth of ‘IR 64' rice plants.
Species composition, stand characteristics, aboveground biomass, and carbon stock of mangroves in Panabo Mangrove Park, Philippines
Authors: ALIMBON JEMER A. , MANSEGUIAO MARK RONALD S.
Published: June 2021

Abstract. Alimbon JA, Manseguiao MRS. 2021. Species composition, stand characteristics, aboveground biomass, and carbon stock of mangroves in Panabo Mangrove Park, Philippines. Biodiversitas 22: 3130-3137. Mangrove ecosystems have been recognized for their roles in climate change mitigation through their carbon sequestration capacity. However, information on the ecology and carbon stock of mangroves is limited. Thus, this study assessed the species composition, stand characteristics, aboveground biomass, and carbon stock of mangroves in Panabo Mangrove Park, Panabo City, Davao del Norte, Philippines. Data for vegetation analysis and biodiversity assessment were collected using transect line plots method. Meanwhile, aboveground biomass estimation was conducted using nondestructive method. Twenty plots with size of 10 m x 10 m each were established to account for the stand characteristics and aboveground biomass of mangroves. Species composition data identified five species from four families. Avicennia marina was the most important species with an importance value of 153.33%. Stand structure analysis revealed a basal area of 14.65 m² ha?¹ and a mean density of 11835 stems ha?¹. Biodiversity indices indicated very low species diversity (H’ = 1.027), low species richness (R = 0.5148) and less even distribution of species (J = 0.6383). Using allometric equation, the aboveground biomass was 77.45 Mg ha?¹ with an estimated stored carbon of 37.18 Mg ha?¹ and sequestration potential of 136.44 Mg CO?ha?¹. These baseline data demonstrate that the area can store and sequester potential amounts of carbon and carbon dioxide, respectively, despite the low diversity.
Genomewide SNP marker identification associated with drought tolerance in oil palm
Authors: Yono Dwi , Nugroho Yogo Adhi , Tanjung Zulfikar Achmad , Utomo Condro , Liwang Tony
Published: June 2021

Abstract. Yono D, Nugroho YA, Tanjung ZA, Utomo C, Liwang T. 2021. Genomewide SNP marker identification associated with drought tolerance in oil palm. Biodiversitas 22: 3138-3144. Drought stress is one of the abiotic stresses that frequently occurred in the oil palm plantation and has a negative impact on fresh fruit bunch (FFB) production.  Therefore, drought-tolerant palms are essential to be selected to mitigate this challenge. In Indonesia, several oil palm plantation areas have a dry climate, such as Lampung province.  Distinct yield performance palms were identified from well-recorded agronomic trials in these areas, where the palms are frequently exposed to drought stresses every year and lead them to suffer from water deficit response.  Group of high and low-yielding palms was selected based on FFB production of each palm for at least ten constitutive years. The double digest restriction amplified DNA (ddRAD) genotyping methods were used to capture the Single Nucleotide Polymorph (SNP) variant from pools of sample association datasets.  At least, 538k SNPs were identified from these pooled datasets. A bulked segregant analysis with a Case-Control approach was implemented to screen the contrast SNP profiles between both pools. A total of 56 association signals was selected from sequential filtering. These SNP sites are located in 21 genes. Further SNP validation and phenotypic verification are necessary to obtain SNPs marker for drought-tolerant palm selections.
Short Communication: Ethnobotanical and ecological studies of medicinal plants in a mangrove forest in Mempawah District, West Kalimantan, Indonesia
Authors: Arbiastutie Yanieta , Diba Farah , Masriani Masriani
Published: June 2021

Abstract. Arbiastutie Y, Diba F, Masriani. 2021. Short Communication: Ethnobotanical and ecological studies of medicinal plants in a mangrove forest in Mempawah District, West Kalimantan, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 22: 3164-3170. The mangrove forest Polaria Tanjung Pagar in Mendalok Village, Mempawah District, West Kalimantan, Indonesia, is a mangrove forest maintained by the local community. Currently, this mangrove forest has become one of the tourist attractions, not only visited by local and national, but also foreign tourists. This study aims to identify plants in Polaria Tanjung Pagar mangrove forest Kalimantan with the potential for medicinal uses. The research used a survey method in the mangrove forest by conducting an inventory of the medicinal plants found in the mangrove forest. Observations were made using a transect line with the total area understudy of 0.012 ha and sampling intensity of 0.4%. The investigation was based on cross-checking the traditional use of medicinal plants by the surrounding communities and the scientific literature. The results showed 13 types of medicinal plants (including tree and understorey plants) from 6 different families, i.e., Acrostichum aureum, Aegiceras corniculatum, Avicennia marina, Avicennia alba, Bruguiera parviflora, Bruguiera gymnorrhiza, Bruguiera cylindrica, Ceriops decandra, Rhizophora apiculata, Rhizophora stylosa, Rhizophora mucronata, Xylocarpus moluccensis, and Sonneratia caseolaris. The community structure of the mangrove forest had moderate diversity for tree species and low diversity for understorey plant species, with an H' valued at 2.39 and 0.25, respectively.