bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Serum uric acid is associated with coronary artery calcification in early chronic kidney disease: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Han Miyeun , Kim Hyunsuk , Kim Hyo Jin , Kang Eunjeong , Kim Yong-Soo , Choi Kyu Hun , Kim Soo Wan , Ahn Curie , Oh Kook-Hwan
Published: July 2021

Background

Although uric acid (UA) is regarded as a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, whether UA is an independent risk factor contributing to coronary artery calcification in chronic kidney disease (CKD) is not well known. We evaluated whether UA level is associated with coronary artery calcium (CAC) score in a predialysis CKD cohort.

Methods

A total of 1,350 subjects who underwent coronary computed tomography as part of the KoreaN Cohort Study for Outcome in Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease were analysed. We conducted a logistic regression analysis to evaluate the association between UA and the presence of CAC.

Results

CAC was detected in 705 (52.2 %) patients, and the level of UA was significantly higher in CAC > 0 patients. UA showed a positive relationship with CAC > 0 in age- and sex-adjusted logistic regression analysis (Odds ratio (OR) 1.11, 95 % confidence interval (CI) 1.04–1.19,P = 0.003). However, UA showed no association with CAC > 0 in multivariate analysis. Further analysis showed that UA showed a positive association with CAC > 0 only in estimated glomerual filtration rate (eGFR) > 60 ml/min/1.73 m2(OR 1.23, 95 % CI 1.02–1.49,P = 0.036) but not in eGFR 30–59 ml/min/1.73 m2(OR 0.92, 95 % CI 0.78–1.08,P = 0.309) or < 30 ml/min/1.73 m2(OR 0.92, 95 % CI 0.79–1.08,P = 0.426).

Conclusions

UA level was significantly associated with CAC in early CKD, but not in advanced CKD.
A method to define the relevant ego-centred spatial scale for the assessment of neighbourhood effects: the example of cardiovascular risk factors
Authors: Breckenkamp Jürgen , Razum Oliver , Spallek Jacob , Berger Klaus , Chaix Basile , Sauzet Odile
Published: July 2021

Introduction

The neighbourhood in which one lives affects health through complex pathways not yet fully understood. A way to move forward in assessing these pathways direction is to explore the spatial structure of health phenomena to generate hypotheses and examine whether the neighbourhood characteristics are able to explain this spatial structure. We compare the spatial structure of two cardiovascular disease risk factors in three European urban areas, thus assessing if a non-measured neighbourhood effect or spatial processes is present by either modelling the correlation structure at individual level or by estimating the intra-class correlation within administrative units.

Methods

Data from three independent studies (RECORD, DHS and BaBi), covering each a European urban area, are used. The characteristics of the spatial correlation structure of cardiovascular risk factors (BMI and systolic blood pressure) adjusted for age, sex, educational attainment and income are estimated by fitting an exponential model to the semi-variogram based on the geo-coordinates of places of residence. For comparison purposes, a random effect model is also fitted to estimate the intra-class correlation within administrative units. We then discuss the benefits of modelling the correlation structure to evaluate the presence of unmeasured spatial effects on health.

Results

BMI and blood pressure are consistently found to be spatially structured across the studies, the spatial correlation structures being stronger for BMI. Eight to 22% of the variability in BMI were spatially structured with radii ranging from 100 to 240 m (range). Only a small part of the correlation of residuals was explained by adjusting for the correlation within administrative units (from 0 to 4 percentage points).

Discussion

The individual spatial correlation approach provides much stronger evidence of spatial effects than the multilevel approach even for small administrative units. Spatial correlation structure offers new possibilities to assess the relevant spatial scale for health. Stronger correlation structure seen for BMI may be due to neighbourhood socioeconomic conditions and processes like social norms at work in the immediate neighbourhood.
Measurement and determinants of financial protection in health in Afghanistan
Authors: Dastan Ilker , Abbasi Asiyeh , Arfa Chokri , Hashimi Mir Najmuddin , Alawi Said Mohammad Karim
Published: July 2021

Background

Out of pocket (OOP) payments for health are significant health financing challenges in Afghanistan as it is a source of incurrence of catastrophic health expenditure (CHE) and impoverishment. Measuring and understanding the drivers and impacts of this financial health hardship is an economic and public health priority, particularly in the time of COVID-19. This is the first study that measures the financial hardship and determines associated factors in Afghanistan.

Methods

Afghanistan Living Conditions Survey data for 2016–2017 was used for this study. We calculated incidence and intensity of catastrophic health expenditure by using different thresholds ranging from 5 to 40% of total and nonfood consumption and subsequent impoverishment due to OOPs. Logistic regression was used to assess the degree to which Afghan households are protected from the catastrophic household expenditure.

Results

Results revealed that 32% of the population in Afghanistan incurred catastrophic health expenditure (as 10% of total consumption) and when healthcare payments are netted out of household consumption, the Afghan population live in extreme poverty ($1.9 in 2011 PPP), increased from 29 to 36%. Based on our findings from logistic regression in Afghanistan, having an educated head or being employed are protective factors from financial hardship while having a female head, an elderly member, a disabled, or a sick member are the risk factors of facing catastrophic health expenditure. Moreover, the people living in rural/nomadic areas or facing an economic shock are more likely to face catastrophic health expenditure and hence to be impoverished due to direct OOPs on health.

Conclusions

The high rate of poverty and catastrophic health expenditure in Afghanistan emphasizes the need to strengthen the health financing system. Although Afghanistan has made great efforts to support households against health expenditure burden during the pandemic, households are at higher risk of poverty and financial hardship due to OOPs. Therefore, there is need for more financial and supportive response policies by providing a better and easier access to primary health services, extending to all entitlement to health services particularly in the public sector, eliminating user fees for COVID-19 health services and suspending fees for other essential health services, expanding coverage of income support, and strengthening the overall health financing system.
Chandipura virus dysregulates the expression of hsa-miR-21-5p to activate NF-κB in human microglial cells
Authors: Pandey Neha , Rastogi Meghana , Singh Sunit K.
Published: July 2021

Background

Chandipura virus (CHPV) is a negative single-stranded RNA virus of the Rhabdoviridae family. CHPV infection has been reported in Central and Western India. CHPV causes acute encephalitis with a case fatality rate of 70 % and mostly affects children below 15 years of age. CHPV infection in brain leads to neuronal apoptosis and activation of the microglial cells. The microRNAs (miRNAs) are small endogenous non-coding RNA that regulate the gene expression. Viral infections perturb the expression pattern of cellular miRNAs, which may in turn affect the expression pattern of downstream genes. This study aims to investigate hsa-miR-21-5p mediated regulation of PTEN, AKT, NF-ĸBp65, IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β, in human microglial cells during CHPV infection.

Methods

To understand the role of hsa-miR-21-5p in CHPV infection, the human microglial cells were infected with CHPV (MOI-0.1). Real-time PCR, western blotting, Luciferase assay, over-expression and knockdown techniques were used to understand the role of hsa-miR-21-5p in the regulation of PTEN, AKT and, NF-ĸBp65, IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β in this study.

Results

The hsa-miR-21-5p was found to be upregulated during CHPV infection in human microglial cells. This led to the downregulation of PTEN which promoted the phosphorylation of AKT and NF-ĸBp65. Over-expression of hsa-miR-21-5p led to the decreased expression of PTEN and promoted further phosphorylation of AKT and NF-ĸBp65 in human microglial cells. However, the inhibition of hsa-miR-21-5p using hsa-miR-21-5p inhibitor restored the expression.

Conclusions

This study supports the role of hsa-miR-21-5p in the regulation of pro-inflammatory genes in CHPV infected human microglial cells.
A cross sectional study to compare cardiac structure and diastolic function in adolescents and young adults with youth-onset type 1 and type 2 diabetes: The SEARCH for Diabetes in Youth Study
Authors: Shah Amy S. , Isom Scott , Dabelea Dana , D’Agostino Ralph , Dolan Lawrence M. , Wagenknecht Lynne , Imperatore Giuseppina , Saydah Sharon , Liese Angela D. , Lawrence Jean M. , Pihoker Cate , Urbina Elaine M. ,   SEARCH for Diabetes in Youth Study Group
Published: July 2021

Aims

To compare left ventricular structure (LV) and diastolic function in young adults with youth- onset diabetes by type, determine the prevalence of abnormal diastolic function by diabetes type using published values from age similar healthy controls, and examine the risk factors associated with diastolic function.

Methods

In a cross sectional analysis we compared LV structure and diastolic function from two dimensional echocardiogram in participants with type 1 (T1D) and type 2 diabetes (T2D) who participated in the SEARCH for Diabetes in Youth Study. Linear models were used to examine the risk factors associated with worse diastolic function.

Results

Of 479 participants studied, 258 had T1D (mean age 21.2 ± 5.2 years, 60.5% non-Hispanic white, 53.9% female) and 221 had T2D (mean age 24.8 ± 4.3 years, 24.4% non-Hispanic white, 73.8% female). Median diabetes duration was 11.6 years. Participants with T2D had greater LV mass index and worse diastolic function that persisted after adjustment for differences in risk factors compared with participants with T1D (all p < 0.05). Abnormal diastolic function, quantified using healthy controls, was pronounced in both groups but greater in those with T2D than T1D (T2D: 57.7% vs T1D: 47.2%, respectively), p < 0.05. Risk factors associated with worse diastolic function included older age at diabetes diagnosis, female sex, higher BP, heart rate and HbA1c and longer diabetes duration.

Conclusions

LV structure and diastolic function is worse in individuals with T2D compared to T1D. However, abnormal diastolic function in seen in both groups compared to published values from age similar healthy controls.
Post treatment NLR is a predictor of response to immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy in patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Wu Xianbin , Han Runkun , Zhong Yanping , Weng Nuoqing , Zhang Ao
Published: July 2021

Background

In view of the fact that peripheral blood parameters have been reported as predictors of immunotherapy to various cancers, this study aimed to determine the predictors of response to anti-programmed death-1 (anti-PD-1) therapy in patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) from peripheral blood parameters.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted to investigate the predictive value of peripheral blood parameters including neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio (MLR) and systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) in the response to anti-PD-1 antibody treatment. 119 ESCC patients receiving combined treatment including anti-PD-1 antibody were enrolled in this study.

Results

The median progression-free survival (PFS) of all ESCC patients was 3.73 months. PFS rate in ESCC patients with low NLR at 6 weeks post treatment was higher than patients with high NLR (HR = 2.097, 95% CI 0.996–4.417, P = 0.027). However, PFS rate in ESCC patients with low NLR at baseline (HR = 1.060, 95% CI 0.524–2.146, P = 0.869) or 3 weeks post treatment (HR = 1.293, 95% CI 0.628–2.663, P = 0.459) was comparable with high NLR. And no statistically different was found in PFS rate between low PLR and high PLR at baseline (HR = 0.786, 95% CI 0.389–1.589, P = 0.469), 3 weeks post treatment (HR = 0.767, 95% CI 0.379–1.552, P = 0.452) or 6 weeks post treatment (HR = 1.272, 95% CI 0.624–2.594, P = 0.488) in ESCC patients. PFS rate was also comparable between low MLR and high MLR at baseline (HR = 0.826, 95% CI 0.408–1.670, P = 0.587), 3 weeks post treatment (HR = 1.209, 95% CI 0.590–2.475, P = 0.580) or 6 weeks post treatment (HR = 1.199, 95% CI 0.586–2.454, P = 0.596). PFS rate was similar between patients with low SII and high SII at baseline (HR = 1.120, 95% CI 0.554–2.264, P = 0.749), 3 weeks post treatment (HR = 1.022, 95% CI 0.500–2.089, P = 0.951) and 6 weeks post treatment (HR = 1.759, 95% CI 0.851–3.635, P = 0.097).

Conclusions

NLR at 6 weeks post treatment is a predictor of the response to anti-PD-1 treatment in patients with ESCC.
Phloretin suppresses neuroinflammation by autophagy-mediated Nrf2 activation in macrophages
Authors: Dierckx Tess , Haidar Mansour , Grajchen Elien , Wouters Elien , Vanherle Sam , Loix Melanie , Boeykens Annick , Bylemans Dany , Hardonnière Kévin , Kerdine-Römer Saadia , Bogie Jeroen F. J. , Hendriks Jerome J. A.
Published: July 2021

Background

Macrophages play a dual role in neuroinflammatory disorders such as multiple sclerosis (MS). They are involved in lesion onset and progression but can also promote the resolution of inflammation and repair of damaged tissue. In this study, we investigate if and how phloretin, a flavonoid abundantly present in apples and strawberries, lowers the inflammatory phenotype of macrophages and suppresses neuroinflammation.

Methods

Transcriptional changes in mouse bone marrow-derived macrophages upon phloretin exposure were assessed by bulk RNA sequencing. Underlying pathways related to inflammation, oxidative stress response and autophagy were validated by quantitative PCR, fluorescent and absorbance assays, nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2 (Nrf2) knockout mice, western blot, and immunofluorescence. The experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) model was used to study the impact of phloretin on neuroinflammation in vivo and confirm underlying mechanisms.

Results

We show that phloretin reduces the inflammatory phenotype of macrophages and markedly suppresses neuroinflammation in EAE. Phloretin mediates its effect by activating the Nrf2 signaling pathway. Nrf2 activation was attributed to 5′ AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)-dependent activation of autophagy and subsequent kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) degradation.

Conclusions

This study opens future perspectives for phloretin as a therapeutic strategy for neuroinflammatory disorders such as MS.

Trial registration

Not applicable.
Bone plate fixation ability on the dorsal and lateral sides of a metacarpal shaft transverse fracture
Authors: Chiu Yung-Cheng , Hsu Cheng-En , Ho Tsung-Yu , Ting Yen-Nien , Tsai Ming-Tzu , Hsu Jui-Ting
Published: July 2021

Background

Metacarpal shaft fractures are a common hand trauma. The current surgical fixation options for such fractures include percutaneous Kirschner wire pinning and nonlocking and locking plate fixation. Although bone plate fixation, compared with Kirschner wire pinning, has superior fixation ability, a consensus has not been reached on whether the bone plate is better placed on the dorsal or lateral side.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the fixation of locking and regular bone plates on the dorsal and lateral sides of a metacarpal shaft fracture.

Materials and methods

Thirty-five artificial metacarpal bones were used in the experiment. Metacarpal shaft fractures were created using a saw blade, which were then treated with four types of fixation as follows: (1) a locking plate with four locking bicortical screws on the dorsal side (LP_D); (2) a locking plate with four locking bicortical screws on the lateral side (LP_L); (3) a regular plate with four regular bicortical screws on the dorsal side (RP_D); (4) a regular plate with four regular bicortical screws on the lateral side (RP_D); and (5) two K-wires (KWs). All specimens were tested through cantilever bending tests on a material testing system. The maximum fracture force and stiffness of the five fixation types were determined based on the force–displacement data. The maximum fracture force and stiffness of the specimens with metacarpal shaft fractures were first analyzed using one-way analysis of variance and Tukey’s test.

Results

The maximum fracture force results of the five types of metacarpal shaft fracture were as follows: LP_D group (230.1 ± 22.8 N, mean ± SD) ≅ RP_D group (228.2 ± 13.4 N) > KW group (94.0 ± 17.4 N) > LP_L group (59.0 ± 7.9 N) ≅ RP_L group (44.5 ± 3.4 N). In addition, the stiffness results of the five types of metacarpal shaft fracture were as follows: LP_D group (68.7 ± 14.0 N/mm) > RP_D group (54.9 ± 3.2 N/mm) > KW group (20.7 ± 5.8 N/mm) ≅ LP_L group (10.6 ± 1.7 N/mm) ≅ RP_L group (9.4 ± 1.2 N/mm).

Conclusion

According to our results, the mechanical strength offered by lateral plate fixation of a metacarpal shaft fracture is so low that even KW fixation can offer relatively superior mechanical strength; this is regardless of whether a locking or nonlocking plate is used for lateral plate fixation. Such fixation can reduce the probability of extensor tendon adhesion. Nevertheless, our results indicated that when lateral plate fixation is used for fixating a metacarpal shaft fracture in a clinical setting, whether the mechanical strength offered by such fixation would be strong enough to support bone union remains questionable.
MiR-330-5p inhibits intervertebral disk degeneration via targeting CILP
Authors: Li Shangzhi , Liu Jinwei , Chen Liang
Published: July 2021

Background

Intervertebral disk degeneration (IDD) is caused by nucleus pulposus (NP) degeneration and extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling and cartilage intermediate layer protein (CILP) expression has been confirmed to be increased in IDD. This study is mainly conducted to clarify the mechanism of CILP in the NP cell degeneration and ECM remodeling in IDD.

Methods

CILP expression in the degenerated NP tissues and cells is quantified by quantitative real-time PCR and western blot. CILP function is assessed by cell cycle assay, 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay and flow cytometry, β-galactosidase staining, and the detection of ECM-related molecules aggrecan, collagen type I, collagen type II, MMP-3, and MMP-9 expression is accomplished by qRT-PCR. The potential mechanism is authenticated by dual-luciferase reporter gene assay.

Results

CILP was increased in the degenerated NP tissues and cells, and the knockdown of CILP promoted the NP cell cycle, increased cell activity, and repressed cell apoptosis and repressed cell senescence and ECM production. Moreover, miR-330-5p targeted the CILP 3′-untranslated region, and miR-330-5p negatively regulated CILP expression. Moreover, the overexpression of miR-330-5p repressed NP cell degeneration and ECM remodeling to relieve IDD by downregulating CILP.

Conclusion

MiR-330-5p represses NP cell degeneration and ECM remodeling to ameliorate IDD by downregulating CILP.
Effect of silencing C-erbB-2 on esophageal carcinoma cell biological behaviors by inhibiting IGF-1 pathway activation
Authors: Niu Zhigao , Zhang Wenping , Shi Jialun , Li Xiangdong , Wu Hanlei
Published: July 2021

Objective

C-erbB-2 has been confirmed to be an oncogene that participates in cell growth, differentiation and division of tumors. We are wondered if its silenced expression can exert an anti-tumor effect. Therefore, this study is conducted to investigate the mechanism of C-erbB-2 silencing and IGF-1 pathway on esophageal carcinoma (EC) cell biological behaviors.

Methods

The objects of study were 84 EC patients from Heping Hospital Affiliated to Changzhi Medical College, with the collection of EC tissue and adjacent normal tissue (> 5 cm away from cancer tissue). C-erbB-2 protein expression in EC tissues was detected by immunohistochemistry. Human EC cell line Eca-109 was purchased from Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences. Based on different transfection protocols, EC cells with logarithmic growth phase of 3–5 passages were divided into blank control group, oe-C-erbB-2 NC group, siRNA C-erbB-2 NC group, oe-C-erbB-2 group, siRNA C-erbB-2 group, OSI-906 group, Rg5 group, Rg5 + siRNA C-erbB-2 NC group and Rg5 + siRNA C-erbB-2 group. Cell proliferation was detected by MTT assay; cell cycle distribution and apoptosis by flow cytometry; C-erbB-2, IGF-1, IGF-1R and Akt mRNA and protein expressions by qRT-PCR and western blot; and cell invasion and migration by Transwell assay and scratch test. Tumor growth was observed in male BALB/c nude mice (Shanghai Experimental Animal Center) based on Eca109 cell implantation, raising, and measurement.

Results

C-erbB-2, IGF-1, IGF-1R and Akt expression were higher in EC tissues than those in adjacent tissues (all P < 0.05). Compared with blank control group, both si-C-erbB-2 and OSI-906 groups had decreased IGF-1, IGF-1R and Akt mRNA and protein expressions, decreased cell proliferation, migration and invasion, prolonged G0/G1 phase, shortened S phase, increased cell apoptosis, and inhibited tumor growth (all P < 0.05); while opposite trends were detected in C-erbB-2 vector and Rg5 groups (all P < 0.05), without statistical differences in siRNA C-erbB-2 + Rg5 group (all P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Silencing C-erbB-2 expression may inhibit EC cell proliferation, promote cell apoptosis and block cell cycle progression by inhibiting IGF-1 pathway activation. The beneficial effect of silencing C-erbB-2 expression can be reversed by promoting the activation of IGF-1 pathway. Findings in our study may provide potential reference for understanding the molecular mechanism of EC and supply possible axis for preventing the development of EC from the perspective of molecular biology.
Adolescent and early adulthood inflammation-associated dietary patterns in relation to premenopausal mammographic density
Authors: Garzia Nichole A. , Cushing-Haugen Kara , Kensler Thomas W. , Tamimi Rulla M. , Harris Holly R.
Published: July 2021

Background

Adolescence and early adulthood has been identified as a critical time window for establishing breast cancer risk. Mammographic density is an independent risk factor for breast cancer that may be influenced by diet, but there has been limited research conducted on the impact of diet on mammographic density. Thus, we sought to examine the association between adolescent and early adulthood inflammatory dietary patterns, which have previously been associated with breast cancer risk, and premenopausal mammographic density among women in the Nurses’ Health Study II (NHSII).

Methods

This study included control participants with premenopausal mammograms from an existing breast cancer case-control study nested within the NHSII who completed a Food Frequency Questionnaire in 1998 about their diet during high school (HS-FFQ) (n = 685) and/or a Food Frequency Questionnaire in 1991 (Adult-FFQ) when they were 27–44 years old (n = 1068). Digitized analog film mammograms were used to calculate the percent density, absolute dense, and non-dense areas. Generalized linear models were fit to evaluate the associations of a pro-inflammatory dietary pattern and the Alternative Healthy Eating Index (AHEI, an anti-inflammatory dietary pattern) with each breast density measure.

Results

Significant associations were observed between an adolescent pro-inflammatory dietary pattern and mammographic density in some age-adjusted models; however, these associations did not remain after adjustment for BMI and other breast cancer risk factors. No associations were observed with the pro-inflammatory pattern or with the AHEI pattern in adolescence or early adulthood in fully adjusted models.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is the first study to evaluate the dietary patterns during adolescence and early adulthood in relation to mammographic density phenotypes. Our findings do not support an association between adolescent and early adulthood diet and breast density in mid-adulthood that is independent of BMI or other breast cancer risk factors.
Design and implementation of a smart elderly positioning management system based on wireless communication network
Authors: Yu Tiantian , Wang Ruping
Published: July 2021

Wireless communication refers to long-distance transmission communication between multiple nodes without propagation through conductors or cables, and wireless communication can be carried out by radio and electromagnetic waves, etc. Judging from the current situation, the home space positioning design of the medical and elderly care communities is not perfect, which affects the traditional home care. Wireless communication can give wisdom, coordination, and development space in the smart elderly care space positioning design, allowing the elderly to interact, contact, and know their precise location and behavior. This article mainly studies the design and implementation of smart pension space positioning under BIM technology. This paper introduces the frontier of Internet-of-things technology and the theory of sensor network topology control. It uses basic IoT technology to implement the "point, line, and surface" combination of personnel placement algorithms, sensor network communication protocols, topology checks, security models, sensor network wireless communication units, and wireless communication technology. The basic technology and communication technology of personnel deployment based on BIM technology are introduced, the development strategy of wireless communications node is studied, the installation of equipment radio personnel and communication equipment is designed, and the system management platform for the design and development of staff placement in pension institutions is provided. The Web site's information service management, standardized procedures, optimized services, provision of information, intelligent management, and pension services. The experimental results of this paper show that the smart pension space positioning under the BIM technology solves the management loopholes in nursing homes, shortage of nursing staff, inefficiency, lack of services, and family conflicts. It improves the efficiency of the elderly by 25% and the safety index by 23–27%. The development of wireless communication technology promotes the development of intelligent pension space. It will be an important future development direction for the smart community pension.
Growth, biochemical quality and antioxidant capacity of coriander leaves under organic and inorganic fertilization programs
Authors: Serri Fereshte , Souri Mohammad Kazem , Rezapanah Mohammadreza
Published: July 2021

Background

Soil salinity buildup and soil degradation are emerging challenges in cropping systems practicing high chemical fertilization. Application of biostimulants and organic fertilizers are better deserve agricultural sustainability and are generally reflected in more nutritious foods than chemical fertilization.

Materials and methods

In this study, the growth, quality and antioxidant capacity of coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) were evaluated under application of organic and biological compared to chemical fertilization in a pot experiment. Different soil fertilization treatments including vermicompost (20% pot volume), cow manure (20% pot volume), biophosphate (as seed inoculation), glycine amino acid (as a biostimulant at 300 mg/kg soil), mixed NPK fertilizer (at 600 mg/kg soil) and unfertilized control were applied to plants under a completely randomized design with four replications.

Results

The results showed that application of organic fertilizers mainly vermicompost and glycine, and to lesser extent NPK fertilizer significantly increased many growth, yield and biochemical quality traits of coriander including root and shoot biomass, leaf SPAD value, ascorbic acid, mineral nutrients, flavonoids and antioxidant activity compared to control plants. Fertilization practices resulted in higher biomass production of root (all treatments) and shoot (all treatments except biophosphate) than control plants. Leaf minerals including N and K (in vermicompost, NPK and glycine treatments), leaf P and Fe (in vermicompost and glycine treatments), leaf Zn (in vermicompost treatment) were significantly increased compared to control plants. Application of manure recorded the lowest leaf Ca and total phenols, while the highest leaf Ca was in vermicompost and glycine-treated plants and the highest leaf phenols was in vermicompost treatment. Application of glycine resulted in the highest leaf ascorbic acid as well as catalase enzyme activity. Leaf antioxidant capacity was significantly higher in vermicompost, glycine and NPK treatments compared to control plants. Leaf carotenoids, peroxidase activity, the concentration of Mg, Cu and Mn were not significantly affected by treatments.

Conclusion

The results indicate that cow manure and biophosphate treatments were not much effective on plant growth; however, vermicompost and glycine showed promising improvement of coriander growth and antioxidant capacity even more than NPK fertilization.

Graphic Abstract
Molecular systematics of Keratinophyton: the inclusion of species formerly referred to Chrysosporium and description of four new species
Authors: Labuda Roman , Bernreiter Andreas , Hochenauer Doris , Kubátová Alena , Kandemir Hazal , Schüller Christoph
Published: July 2021

Four new Keratinophyton species (Ascomycota, Pezizomycotina, Onygenales), K. gollerae, K. lemmensii, K. straussii, and K. wagneri, isolated from soil samples originating from Europe (Austria, Italy, and Slovakia) are described and illustrated. The new taxa are well supported by phylogenetic analysis of the internal transcribed spacer region (ITS) region, the combined data analysis of ITS and the nuclear large subunit (LSU) rDNA, and their phenotype. Based on ITS phylogeny, within the Keratinophyton clade, K. lemmensii is clustered with K. durum, K. hubeiense, K. submersum, and K. siglerae, while K. gollerae, K. straussii and K. wagneri are resolved in a separate terminal cluster. All four new species can be well distinguished from other species in the genus based on phenotype characteristics alone. Ten new combinations are proposed for Chrysosporium species which are resolved in the monophyletic Keratinophyton clade. A new key to the recognized species is provided herein.
Variations in oxidative stress and antioxidant defense level during different phases of hibernation in common Asian toad,Duttaphrynus melanostictus
Authors: Patnaik Prabhati , Sahoo Deba Das
Published: July 2021

To assess redox status during hibernation with metabolic depression, oxidative stress parameters and antioxidant defense were assessed during different phases of hibernation including active period, hibernation, arousal, and post-arousal period, in the liver and brain tissues of Duttaphrynus melanostictus. We hypothesized low levels of oxidative stress and antioxidant defense during the hibernation period in comparison to the summer active period, due to hypometabolism and their subsequent increase during the arousal period following an increase in body temperature and metabolism. Contrary to our hypothesis, increased oxidative stress with significantly higher lipid peroxidation, protein carbonylation, oxidized glutathione (GSSG): glutathione (GSH) ratio, and elevated antioxidants defense consisting of higher catalase activity and high ascorbic acid content to control oxidative stress were found during hibernation. However, GSH and uric acid levels were found low with super oxide dismutase (SOD) activities at a steady level during hibernation. Supporting our hypothesis, increased oxidative stress with high lipid peroxidation and GSSG:GSH ratio were found during arousal from hibernation owing to increased oxygen consumption and rewarming. Augmented catalase and SOD activities and nonenzymatic antioxidants (GSH, ascorbic acid, and uric acid) level were found to counteract oxidative stress during arousal periods as it was expected. A steady level of protein carbonylation, indicating no oxidative damage during arousal from hibernation due to elevated antioxidant defense, shows the significance of hibernation to overcome food and water scarcity and cold climatic condition. Decrease in antioxidants levels accompanying coming down of lipid peroxidation, protein carbonylation, and GSSG:GSH ratio to their lower levels during the post-arousal period showing normalcy in redox status as it was during active period indicates controllability of oxidative stress in hibernating toads.
Knowledge, attitude, and behaviours on diet, physical activity, and tobacco use among school students: A cross-sectional study in two Indian states
Authors: Bassi Shalini , Bahl Deepika , Harrell Melissa Blythe , Jain Neha , Kandasamy Arun , Salunke Subhash R. , Shah Vinod Gajanan , Raghunathan Prema , Markandan Selvarajan , Murthy Pratima , Arora Monika
Published: July 2021

Background:Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are escalating in India and can be attributed to behavioural risk factors such as unhealthy diet, physical inactivity and tobacco use that began in early years. Understanding adolescents’ knowledge, attitudes and behaviours (KAB) related to NCD risk factors would inform the development of school-based health programmes to prevent NCDs.

Methods:Sixth-grade students (n=1026) in 20 schools (10 private, 10 public) from two Indian cities (n=667 from Pune; n=359 from Bengaluru) participated in a KAB survey in 2019. Differences in KAB by gender, school type within cities were investigated.

Results:Knowledge about the harms of tobacco use was higher than knowledge about a healthy diet and the importance of physical activity. Only a small proportion of students did not eat breakfast (8.7%) or fruits (11.3%) daily. Only 33.4% of students read nutrition labels before choosing their food. Moderate-to-vigorous physical activity of less than an hour per day was reported by 42.5% of students. Approximately one-third of students had ever tried smoking tobacco (30.1%), smokeless tobacco (30.5%), and e-cigarettes (32.4%). Differences in these behaviours by gender and school type showed that both boys, girls and students of private and public schools are vulnerable.

Conclusions:The findings highlight that knowledge is low for thematic areas like diet and physical activity. Low knowledge can be attributed to unfavourable behaviours like lack of reading nutrition labels and indulgence in sedentary activities. To protect India’s young population (adolescents), there is a need to amplify health education activities and context-specific health intervention materials for them by engaging parents and communities. Thus, these programmes should be incorporated into the curriculum as part of the regular teaching, as they may induce positive changes in their knowledge and behaviours. In India, school health programmes should dedicate significant time to health promotion and NCD risk prevention.
Outcomes after Arterial Reconstruction with Autogenous Vein Graft for Limb Salvage in Traumatized Extremity
Authors: Jeon Mooheon , Lee Young Keun
Published: July 2021

Purpose: The patients with major vascular injuries in the traumatized extremity and underwent arterial reconstruction using autogenous vein grafts for limb salvage. This study aims to report the outcomes of arterial reconstruction with autogenous vein graft in patients.Methods: From February 2015 to April 2017, a study was retrospectively analyzed 13 patients with limb injuries caused by significant arterial damage and underwent arterial reconstruction using vascular autografts for limb salvage. Such as cause, Mangled Extremity Severity Scores (MESS), ischemic time, length of the grafted vein, reconstructed arterial status, and survival status were analyzed. Results: Among the patients analyzed, nine patients’ injuries were caused by traffic accidents and three industrial accidents, one fall down. Mean MESS was 6.2 (range, 5–8) and mean ischemic time was 12.3 hours (range, 5–25 hours). As arterial reconstruction, seven patients underwent posterior tibial artery reconstruction, three underwent popliteal artery reconstruction, two underwent anterior tibial artery reconstruction, and one underwent radial artery reconstruction; the greater saphenous vein was grafted in 12 reconstruction cases. Mean length of the grafted vein was 4.9 cm (range, 3–10 cm). All patients have salvaged injured limbs.Conclusion: Artery reconstruction using autogenous vein graft is an efficient treatment method when vascular damage cannot be directly repaired during limb salvage.
Make your voice heard on standards of specialist practice
Authors: Oldman Crystal
Published: July 2021

The NMC consultation on the recordable Specialist Practitioner Qualification – General Practice Nursing is now open. Crystal Oldman urges you to make your views known
What the practice nurse needs to know about Lyme disease
Authors: Knight Julia
Published: July 2021

Lyme disease has been found in ticks all over the UK. Julia Knight provides an overview of the risks, diagnosis and treatment
Construct Exploration of Teacher Readiness as an Assessor of Vocational High School Competency Test
Authors: Cahyono Sulistio Mukti , Kartawagiran Badrun , Mahmudah Fitri Nur
Published: July 2021

Teachers who can adapt and be ready for all changes will also be able to provide a balance to increase the competence of vocational high school students. This is also not denied when teachers become assessors in student competency tests. The objectives of this study were to produce an instrument for the readiness of teachers as assessors; to knowing good grain reliability; to know the characteristics of the instrument; and to know the difficulty level of the item. The method used in this research is instrument development. Respondents were vocational school teachers who were candidates for competency test assessors. Data collection techniques using a questionnaire. Analysis of construct validity using Confirmatory Factor Analysis. Reliability using Cronbach’s alpha. Test the instrument items using the Rasch model. The results are the readiness instruments of the vocational teacher as an assessor has 19 indicators that have been grouped into 5 factors with consistency values being in the same construct (proven construct validity). The result of the calculation of the reliability of this instrument is 0.852, which means that the reliability coefficient is high; There are two items, namely numbers 24 and 18 which indicate the absence of a fit item in the overall item fit criteria; At the item difficulty level, items 8 and 6 have a difficulty score of more than 2, while this indicates that items 8 and 6 have a high difficulty level.
Mathematics Teachers’ Practices of STEM Education: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Rahman Noor Anita , Rosli Roslinda , Rambely Azmin Sham , Halim Lilia
Published: July 2021

Science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education is regarded as one of the formulas to embracing many of our imminent challenges. STEM education benefits the learners by encouraging interest in STEM disciplines. This daunting task needs everyone’s concerted efforts in creating and innovating mathematics teachers’ classroom practices Therefore, a systematic review was conducted to identify best practices for STEM education following the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) by Moher et al. (2015). The reviewed articles were published from 2016 to 2020 and accessed using the Scopus and Web of Science (WoS) databases. Three themes for best practices were identified namely (a) core competencies encompassing 21st-century teaching skills; (b) instructional designs; and (c) requisite STEM execution. Results of PRISMA determined the dominant STEM practices were critical thinking, communication, collaboration, problem-solving, research-based pedagogy, problem-based learning and project-based learning, technological integration, accessibility, professional development and learning support, evidence of effectiveness, access to materials and practitioner support, and scalability. Mathematics teachers should determine the best STEM practices to employ even though there is a lack of studies on integrated STEM domains. When more students are interested in venturing and exploring into the field of STEM, the high demand for STEM related careers could be met by the younger generation.
La guerra asimétrica como expresión yihadista. Los ataques de noviembre de 2015 en París
Authors: Plana Joya Genís
Published: July 2021

Los ataques del 13 de noviembre de 2015 en París son parte de una secuencia de acciones armadas protagonizadas por la yihad islámica. Además del fundamento ideológico-teológico que relaciona los ataques, éstos presentan como ligazón el modus operandi en que son efectuados. El objetivo del presente estudio consiste en situar el episodio armado referido dentro del marco conceptual que proporciona la tipología bélica denominada «guerra asimétrica». Al explotar las debilidades del adversario mediante formas bélicas no convencionales, la guerra asimétrica aspira a contrarrestar la acentuada diferencia en las capacidades militares de los contendientes en liza. La negación del carácter estatal de la contienda por medio de redes logísticas de alcance internacional es otra de las particularidades de la guerra asimétrica que puede ser observada a partir de los ataques de París.
Conflictos intergeneracionales en contextos agroindustriales. Juventudes rurales ante el monocultivo y las fumigaciones aéreas en México
Authors: Sánchez Sánchez David
Published: July 2021

El artículo muestra una perspectiva de análisis de las problemáticas socioambientales provocadas por el crecimiento de la agroindustria. Dicho modelo agrícola, en el caso específico analizado, ha promovido desde hace algunas décadas el monocultivo del maíz; el modelo de desarrollo rural implementado está llegando a sus límites y provocando gran parte de la crisis generalizada que se vive en el medio rural mexicano. Uno de los elementos imprescindibles en esta forma de producción es el uso de agroquímicos, cuyo crecimiento ha sido exponencial y se van acumulando sus efectos. Se presenta una experiencia donde distintas generaciones se confrontan sobre los efectos de estas prácticas agrícolas, analizándola desde una perspectiva intergeneracional, que permite ver la complejidad de los conflictos que se juegan en los territorios rurales.
Matronería, estallido social y Covid-19. Discursos de matronas y matrones chilenos en torno al rol profesional en contextos de crisis
Authors: Obando-Cid Augusto , Infante-Grandón Gonzalo
Published: July 2021

Introducción y Objetivo. La matronería en Chile tiene un incuestionable rol social, con particular protagonismo en contextos de crisis. Nace como profesión, ante una situación sociosanitaria de fenomenal vulnerabilidad de las mujeres. La presente investigación tiene por objetivo analizar los discursos sobre el despliegue e incidencia de la matronería en los escenarios propiciados por el «estallido social» de octubre 2019 y la pandemia de COVID-19. Material y Método. La presente investigación adhiere al paradigma simbólico-interpretativo, desde una metodología cualitativa, situado en el enfoque de estudio de caso, en el que las estrategias de construcción de datos son documentales y conversacionales, utilizándose las técnicas de revisión documental para prensa escrita/online y entrevistas semiestructuradas. Se seleccionó 11 notas de prensa nacional y se realizaron 6 entrevistas semiestructuradas a matronas y matrones que se desempeñan en atención primaria, atención hospitalaria y docencia. Para el análisis de datos se utilizó la perspectiva de Verón de la semiosis social y el análisis de los discursos sociales. Resultados y Conclusiones. Frente al estallido social y la crisis sanitaria causada por la COVID-19, la matronería toma un rol activo de denuncia, demanda y emplazamiento a la autoridad sanitaria y gubernamental, visibilizando las necesidades de salud sexual y reproductiva, exigiendo que las gestantes sean consideradas población prioritaria en la pandemia, solicitando protocolos de acción, incluso generando uno, sin obtener respuesta, advirtiendo con interponer acciones legales para proteger a las mujeres y gestantes del país, ante el olvido tácito por parte del Ministerio de Salud.
Gestar y parir en pandemia: vulneración de derechos y marcas subjetivas en la atención obstétrica/perinatal en contexto de COVID-19 en Argentina
Authors: Lázzaro Ana Inés , Arnao-Bergero Magdalena
Published: July 2021

Objetivo. Durante la emergencia sanitaria por COVID-19 la atención en torno a embarazos y partos se vio directamente afectada. Este estudio exploratorio indaga sobre las percepciones, emociones y vivencias de las personas gestantes en relación con la atención obstétrica en instituciones de salud de Argentina en los primeros meses del aislamiento social en este país. Material y método. Los datos fueron obtenidos mediante un cuestionario semiestructurado dirigido a personas gestantes y/o que hubieran parido desde el comienzo de la cuarentena. Para este artículo, nos basamos en el apartado cualitativo del mismo a partir del análisis de tres preguntas abiertas que apuntaban a registrar los efectos subjetivos de atravesar la gestación y/o parto durante la emergencia sanitaria. El enfoque teórico retoma los desarrollos en materia de derechos perinatales desde una perspectiva de género y estudios sociales sobre violencia obstétrica. Resultados y Conclusiones. Se advierte la insistencia de emociones negativas y malestar por parte de la población encuestada, entendidos como «marcas subjetivas». Asimismo, se pone en relieve el estado de desinformación sobre protocolos de atención como factor clave para dicho malestar y el recrudecimiento en la vulneración de derechos perinatales (contemplados en marcos legislativos vigentes) como parte de los derechos sexuales y (no) reproductivos para todas las personas gestantes y con capacidad de gestar.