Should intravitreal dexamethasone implant in refractory diabetic macular edema be used as an adjuvant therapy or switch therapy?

ABSTRACT Purpose: To compare the outcomes of intravitreal dexamethasone implant used as either an adjuvant or a switching therapy for diabetic macular edema in patients with poor anatomic response after three consecutive monthly injections of ranibizumab. Methods: This retrospective study included patients with diabetic macular edema who received three consecutive doses of ranibizumab as initial therapy and demonstrated poor response. A single dose of intravitreal de xamethasone implant was administered to these patients. The patients were divided into two groups according to the treatment modalities: the adjuvant therapy group, consisting of patients who continued treatment with ranibizumab injection after receiving intravitreal dexamethasone implant, and the switch therapy group, consisting of patients who were switched from ranibizumab treatment to intravitreal dexamethasone implant as needed. The main outcome measurements were best corrected visual acuity and central retinal thickness at baseline and at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months of follow-up. Results: In this study that included 64 eyes of 64 patients, the best corrected visual acuity and central retinal thickness values did not significantly differ between the groups at baseline and at 6 months of follow-up (p>0.05). However, at 12 months, the best corrected visual acuity values in the adjuvant and switch therapy groups were 0.46 and 0.35 LogMAR, respectively (p=0.012), and the central retinal thickness values were 344.8 and 270.9, respectively (p=0.007). Conclusions: In a real-world setting, it seems more reasonable to use intravitreal dexamethasone implant as a switch therapy rather than an adjuvant therapy for diabetic macula edema refractory to ranibizumab despite three consecutive monthly injections of ranibizumab. Patients switched to intravitreal dexamethasone implant were found to have better anatomic and visual outcomes at 12 months than those who continued ranibizumab therapy despite their less-than-optimal responses.

Estándares de perímetro cefálico argentinos y de la Organización Mundial de la Salud: estudio comparativo / Argentine and World Health Organization head circumference standards: A comparison study

Introducción. Diversos estudios han evidenciado diferencias poblacionales en el tamaño cefálico que cuestionan la validez universal del estándar de la Organización Mundial de la Salud (OMS) para evaluar el crecimiento cefálico. Objetivos. Comparar las referencias argentinas de perímetro cefálico (PC) de 0 a 5 años con los estándares de la OMS. Población y métodos. Se compararon los percentiles 3 y 97 de PC de las referencias argentinas con los correspondientes del estándar de la OMS y se calcularon los porcentajes de niños clasificados como microcefálicos (PC < percentil 3 de la OMS) y macrocefálicos (PC > percentil 97 de la OMS) a edades específicas entre el nacimiento y los 5 años de edad. Resultados. La comparación de las referencias argentinas con los estándares de la OMS, muestra que ­en ambos sexos­ en el percentil 3, desde el primer mes y hasta los 6 meses, las referencias argentinas se encuentran por debajo de los estándares de la OMS, son similares entre los 9 y 18 meses, y luego se ubican por encima hasta los 60 meses. En relación con el percentil 97, las referencias argentinas se ubican por encima de los estándares de la OMS desde el nacimiento hasta los 60 meses en ambos sexos. Conclusiones. El tamaño cefálico de los niños y niñas argentinos difiere del de los estándares de la OMS. La adopción de los estándares de la OMS en nuestra población incrementa el porcentaje de diagnóstico de macrocefalia a todas las edades.

Introduction. Several studies have shown population differences in head circumference (HC) that question the universal validity of the World Health Organization (WHO) standard to assess head growth. Objectives. To compare the Argentine reference charts for HC from 0 to 5 years of age with the WHO standards. Population and methods. The 3rd and 97th percentiles for HC based on the Argentine reference charts were compared with the corresponding WHO standard and the percentage of children classified as having microcephaly (HC < 3rd percentile of the WHO) and macrocephaly (HC > 97th percentile of the WHO) at specific ages between 0 and 5 years were estimated. Results. The comparison of the Argentine reference charts with the WHO standards shows that, in both males and females, at the 3rd percentile, the Argentine reference charts are below the WHO standards from 1 to 6 months of age, similar from 9 to 18 months of age, and then above until 60 months old. In relation to the 97th percentile, the Argentine reference charts are above the WHO standards from birth to 60 months in both boys and girls. Conclusions. The head size of Argentine children is different from that established by the WHO standards. The adoption of the WHO standards for our population increases the percentage of macrocephaly diagnosis at all ages.

Estimation of standing height in spina bifida: model development and validation

Abstract Objective Childhood standing height has been estimated from arm span-related (heightAS) models. The authors aimed to develop and cross-validate a heightAS model in individuals with spina bifida (SB) and examine the accuracy of existing heightAS models. Methods Participants were individuals with sacral and low-lumbar SB (n = 14) and non-SB (n = 83), 7-16 years old. Arm span, age, sex, and group (SB vs. non-SB) were candidate height predictors. Sequential regression and leave-one-out cross-validation approaches were used for the model development (M1) and cross-validation (M1-M5). Existing models were: an SB-specific model from Polfuss et al. (M2) and non-SB specific models from Gauld et al. (M3), Mulu et al. (M4), and Zverev et al. (M5) studies. Results Arm span and group explained 95 % of the variance in height (R2 = 0.95; p < 0.001; SEE = 3.666 cm) and were included in the M1. Mean differences between actual and estimated height were 0.0 cm (M1), 0.4 cm (M2), and 0.5 cm (M5), all not significant (p > 0.05). However, Bland-Altman analysis revealed some variability in the predictability of the models across participants with limits of agreement ranging from 7.4 to 10.9 cm. Considerable errors were observed with M3 (mean diff: −5.58 cm, 95 % CI: −1.6, −20.2 cm), and M4 (mean diff: 10.5 cm, 95 % CI: −13.8, −27.3 cm). Conclusions Models (M1, M2 and M5) may accurately estimate standing height in groups of children with SB. However, due to the wide limits of agreement, caution is recommended when applying these models for individual height estimations.

Association between type of feeding at hospital discharge and nutritional status of Brazilian very preterm infants: a multicenter study

Abstract Objectives To examine trends over time in diet and size of very preterm infants, and associations of diet with size at hospital discharge/transfer. Methods The authors studied 4062 surviving very preterm infants born < 32 weeks' gestational age and < 1500 g between January 2012 and December 2020 from 12 Brazilian Neonatal Intensive Care Units. Diet type at discharge/transfer was classified as exclusive human milk, exclusive formula, or mixed. Outcomes were weight and head circumference at hospital discharge and the change in each from birth to discharge. The authors used linear regression to estimate adjusted associations of diet type with infant size, overall, and stratified by fetal growth category (small vs. appropriate for gestational age). The authors also examined trends in diet and infant size at discharge over the years. Results Infants' mean gestational age at birth was 29.3 weeks, and the mean birth weight was 1136 g. Diet at discharge/transfer was exclusive human milk for 22 %, mixed for 62 %, and exclusive formula for 16 %. Infant size in weight and head circumference were substantially below the growth chart reference for all diets. Infants fed human milk and mixed diets were lighter and had smaller heads at discharge/transfer than infants fed formula only (weight z: −2.0, −1.8, and −1.5; head z: −1.3, −1.2 and −1.1 for exclusive human milk, mixed and exclusive formula respectively). Conclusion Results suggest high human milk use but gaps in nutrient delivery among hospitalized Brazilian very preterm infants, with little evidence of improvement over time.

Selected Actinomycetes as Potential Biostimulant of Eggplant (Solanum melongena L) in Mali

Aims: This study aims to formulate at least one efficient biostimulant based on actinomycetes that promotes good eggplant growth in Mali. Study Design: The experimental design was a completely randomized block design with three replications and four treatments randomly distributed. The treatments were three Actinomycete strains (Act, S1 and St1) and a non inoculated control and the mode of application (inoculation or spraying) of these treatments were considered as blocking factor. Place and Duration of Study: The trials were conducted in Bamako, in the Greenhouse of the LaboREM-Biotech situated on the colline of Badalabougou. Methodology: Eggplant seeds inoculated or not with Actinomyces sp. Ts1, Actinomyces sp. S1 and Actinomyces sp. Act; were randomly sown in plastic pots filled with approximately 2.50 kg of air-dried soil. The first block sown with coated seeds and the second with non-inoculated seeds and seedlings from them pulverized. Leaf length, leaf area, leaf diameter, leaf area, leaf fresh weight, leaf dry weight, root fresh weight, root dry weight, plant height and root length were determined. Results: Eggplant seed inoculated with all the tested Actinomycetes strains had significantly enhanced leaf length, leaf diameter, leaf area, leaves fresh weight. The highest results were obtained with the strain Act, followed by strain St1. Sprayed treatment improved eggplant leaf length, leaf diameter, leaf area, leaves fresh weight, leaves dry weight, root fresh weight, root dry weight; compared to the coated treatment Conclusion: Field application of actinomyctes may reduce production cost, by increasing eggplant growth and fruit yield while reducing production cost. The present work showed that Act and Ts1 using spray method were best suited for eggplant. Actinomyces sp. Act produced the highest leaf length, leaf diameter, leaf area, leaves fresh weight. Therefore, Actinomyces sp. Act is suggested as bioinoculant for eggplant.

Aatmanirbhar Bharat And GDP With Industrial Growth Rate And Unemployment Rate Since 2019

Before independence, India was a self reliant country. The British not only made a political slave but also an economic slave to India. That is why their rule over India lasted for a long time almost 200 years i.e. India was theirs for a long time slave. To establish their rule, the British first of all destroyed the handicraft industry of India because India was self reliant only because of its handicraft industry. And they started manufacturing goods using machines in England and selling them in India. Through this policy England made India an exporter of raw material and an importer of finished goods. That is, it made India a supplier of raw material and a consumer of finished goods. India's demand which was for handicraft industry of India was transformed into demand for England's industries. Goods made by machines in England were cheaper and reached the market quickly while goods made by India's handicraft industries were expensive and took more time. Mahatma Gandhi started the Swadeshi movement. People were appealed to buy goods made by Indian industries. Mahatma Gandhi tried to explain through this movement that we first have to get freedom from economics level until we became financially independent, we cannot be free .So use thing made by India only. Not use things made in British factory. After independence five year plans were initiated and the objective of self reliance was set to take India to a new path of economic development. India has not yet succeeded in achieving this objective set in the five year plans. Even today, raw materials and traditional goods have a greater place in our exports, while machines and finished goods have a greater place in the imported goods. Now after covid -19 ,a new campaign has been started by prime minister Narendra Modi to make India a self reliant country " Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan(Self Reliant India Campaign )on 12 may 2020.� This paper reviewed on GDP with industrial growth rate and unemployment rate since 2019 and discussed challenge for achieving the goal Atmanirbhar Bharat & future prespective.

Referencias argentinas de perímetro cefálico desde el nacimiento hasta los 19 años / Argentine reference charts for head circumference from birth to 19 years of age

Introducción. El perímetro cefálico (PC) es un indicador del crecimiento cerebral y es necesario contar con referencias de crecimiento que permitan determinar variaciones normales o patológicas. Objetivos. Presentar las primeras referencias argentinas de perímetro cefálico entre el nacimiento y los 19 años, y compararlas con las referencias de Nellhaus, utilizadas en nuestro país hasta la actualidad. Población y métodos. Para la construcción de estas referencias, se combinaron datos de la Encuesta Nacional de Nutrición y Salud 2018 y estudios transversales realizados entre 2004 y 2007 en las provincias de Buenos Aires y La Pampa, que incluyeron 8326 niños, niñas y adolescentes sanos. Las curvas de crecimiento fueron ajustadas con el método LMS. Para evaluar la magnitud de las diferencias entre estas referencias y las de Nellhaus, a diferentes edades, se graficaron los centilos 2, 50 y 98. Resultados. El PC mostró un incremento de tamaño variable con la edad, de mayor magnitud en los primeros años de vida, y un ligero incremento en la pubertad. Los valores del centilo 98 de las referencias argentinas fueron mayores que los de Nellhaus en todas las edades. Los valores del centilo 2 de la referencia nacional fueron menores que los de Nellhaus durante los primeros 2 años de vida, similares entre los 3 y 7 años, y mayores a partir de esta edad. Conclusiones. Las curvas argentinas describen adecuadamente el patrón de crecimiento del PC. Las diferencias halladas con la referencia de Nellhaus pueden atribuirse a cambios seculares.

Introduction. Head circumference (HC) is an indicator of brain growth; growth charts are necessary to determine normal or pathological variations. Objectives. To present the first Argentine HC reference charts between birth and 19 years of age and to compare them with the Nellhaus charts, which have been used in our country to date. Population and methods. These references were developed based on combined data from the National Survey on Nutrition and Health of 2018 and cross-sectional studies conducted between 2004 and 2007 in the provinces of Buenos Aires and La Pampa, which included 8326 healthy children and adolescents. Growth curves were adjusted using the LMS method. To assess the differences between these reference charts and the Nellhaus charts, at different ages, the 2nd, 50th, and 98th percentiles were plotted. Results. HC showed a variable increase in size with age, which was greater in the first years of life, and a slight increase at puberty. The values for the 98th percentile of the Argentine reference charts were higher than those of the Nellhaus charts at all ages. The values for the 2 nd percentile of the national reference were lower than those of the Nellhaus charts during the first 2 years of life, similar between 3 and 7 years of age, and higher after this age. Conclusions. The Argentine curves adequately describe the growth pattern of HC. The differences found with the Nellhaus charts may be attributed to secular changes.

Lack of association between the −2549 insertion/deletion variant of vascular endothelial growth factor and coronary artery disease in the Turkish population

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: Coronary artery disease is the leading cause of death worldwide. Vascular endothelial growth factor is known to induce endothelial cell migration and proliferation, increase vascular permeability, and modulate thrombogenicity. The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between the VEGF insertion/deletion (I/D) variant (rs35569394) and coronary artery disease susceptibility in the Turkish population. METHODS: A total of 206 subjects, including 106 coronary artery disease patients and 100 controls, were included in this study. The VEGF I/D variant was genotyped using the polymerase chain reaction method. RESULTS: The frequency of the I/I, I/D, and D/D genotypes was 35.84 versus 37%, 33.97 versus 36%, and 30.19 versus 27% in patients and the control group, respectively. VEGF I/D genotype and allele distribution were not statistically significant between coronary artery disease patients and controls (p>0.05). There was no significant difference between VEGF I/D genotype distribution and patient characteristics including age, gender, disease duration, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglyceride, history of hypertension, history of diabetes mellitus, and smoking (p>0.05). CONCLUSION: This study suggests that the VEGF I/D variant is not a predisposing factor to coronary artery disease disease in a Turkish sample.

Study of Neonatal Morbidity and Mortality in Very Low Birth Weight Neonates Admitted in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in a Tertiary Care Centre: An Observational Study

Background: Thorough documentation of morbidity and mortality is crucial for understanding health trends in very low birth weight (VLBW) neonates. Morbidity and mortality in VLBW neonates represent significant health issues, making it essential to identify associated risk factors. The perinatal and neonatal periods are critical in highlighting the health conditions of at-risk populations. This study aims to examine intricate patterns of morbidity and mortality among VLBW neonates. Methods: VLBW neonates admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, BKL Walawalkar Hospital, from November 2022 to May 2024 were examined. We collected comprehensive maternal information, such as age, birth locality, gestational age, and various risk factors. The study focused on demographic profiles, clinical variables, and outcomes. Results: Out of 203 VLBW neonates, 31% were appropriate for gestational age, 66% were small, and 6.4% were restricted Intrauterine growth. Common morbidities were respiratory distress syndrome (39.9%) followed by sepsis (25.6%). The majority of VLBW neonates were born of normal vaginal delivery (44.8%) with gestational age between 28-32 weeks (54.7%). A significant statistical association between gestational age and mortality outcomes was found(p-value=0.005) Conclusion: Respiratory distress syndrome is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in VLBW neonates. It is crucial to utilize surfactant therapy effectively and ensure timely transportation for neonates. To address these issues, it is essential to improve prenatal care, guarantee skilled attendance during childbirth, conduct regular screenings, implement infection control measures, and educate parents.

Effect of Different Levels of Uptake Stimulants on the Yield of Dolichos Bean (Lablab purpureus)

This case study investigates the impact of different levels of uptake stimulants on the growth and yield of a leguminous vegetable crop Dolichos bean (Lablab purpureus). The field experiment was conducted during the Rabi season of 2024 at agricultural land of ASPEE Foundation based in Palghar, Maharashtra. The study utilized a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications and seven treatments. Each treatment received drenched well-formulated nutrients in different concentration. The highest pod yield was recorded 2.187 ton/ha with the application of 2 ml P star used per liter of water(T2). For the considered Bauni variety of Dolichos bean, the soil parameters of experimental field are as follows: pH 7.28, Organic Carbon (OC) 0.17%, Electrical Conductivity (EC) 0.84 dS/m, Nitrogen (N) 85.29 kg/ha, Phosphorus (P) 92.19 kg/ha, and Potassium (K) 394.17 kg/ha. This indicates that the application of appropriate treatments using appropriate crop protection equipment with integrated nutrient management (INM) significantly enhanced both growth and yield parameters of Dolichos bean such as number of pods per cluster, pod weight, number of seeds per pod, pod yield per plant and pod Yield (kg/ha).

Evaluation of VEGF, BDNF, TRKB expression in oral epithelial dysplasia, oral verrucous carcinoma and oral squamous cell carcinoma and their role as prognostic indicator

Background: Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a serious health disease that can lead to a reduced quality of life or even death. It ranks sixth in terms of cancer expansion. It is one of India’s primary causes of natural death. In OSCC such potentially malignant Disorders (PMDs) are precancerous lesions with such a high risk of progression. Tumor angiogenesis is a one of the basic biomarkers that may influence the proliferation of a precancerous lesion into the cancerous lesion. Tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and brain?derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) also play important roles in carcinogenesis by promoting angiogenesis. The construction of new vessels of blood from existing vasculature is referred as angiogenesis. Aim of the Study: To get deep insights of immunohistochemistry expression of VEGF, BDNF, and TRKB in oral epithelial dysplasia (OED), verrucous carcinoma (VC), and OSCC. Material and Methods: The study included 100 formalin?fixed paraffin?embedded tissue blocks from 20 cases of OED, 20 cases of VC, and 60 cases of OSCC [20 cases of well?differentiated oral squamous cell carcinoma (WD?OSCC), 20 cases of moderately differentiated oral squamous cell carcinoma (MD?OSCC), and 20 cases of poorly differentiated oral squamous cell carcinoma (PD?OSCC). The staining intensity and distribution of VEGF, BNDF, and TrkB were examined and statistically analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA), post hoc Bonferroni test, independent t?test, Pearson’s Chi?square test, and Pearson’s correlation coefficient test. Results: The immunoexpression of VEGF, BDNF, and TrkB was found to be elevated in the order of OEDs, VC, and OSCC. The percentage of positive was highest in PD?OSCC, followed by MD?OSCC and WD?OSCC. Conclusion: Based on our findings, angiogenesis plays a significant role in tumor growth and metastasis. A substantial relationship was discovered between VEGF, BDNF, TrkB expression, and increases in vascularity throughout the transition from OEDs to VCs and OSCCs.

Growth and yield of carrot (Daucus carota L.) as influenced by seed priming

The research work was conducted at the Horticulture Farm of the School of Agriculture, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, from October 2021 to February 2022 to examine the influence of seed priming on the growth and yield of carrots in the Punjab region. The experiment was conducted using a two-factorial randomized block design replicated thrice. The first factor consisted of fourteen priming agents (T1- Zinc (ZnSO4 at 1%), T2- GA3 (50 ppm), T3- GA3 (100 ppm), T4- Cinnamon (10%), T5- Cinnamon (15%), T6- Coconut water (5%), T7- Coconut water (12.5%), T8- Panchagavya (3%), T9- Panchagavya (5%), T10- KNO3 (0.5%), T11- KCl (1%), T12- Cow urine (2%), T13- Cow urine (5%), T14- Water) and one control (T15- Unprimed seeds). The second factor comprised two commercial cultivars, namely, V1- Carrot Deep Red and V2- Black Wonder. Results revealed that the application of 100 ppm GA3, Panchagavya (5%), cow urine (2%), and coconut water (5%) as priming agents in carrots had better growth and yield as compared to the remaining treatments. Therefore, priming carrot seeds could be recommended as an effective method to improve the performance of the plants in terms of both growth and yield attributes.

Tratamiento de paciente clase III esqueletal por hipoplasia maxilar con canino superior retenido / Treatment of skeletal class III patient due to maxillary hypoplasia with retained upper canine

La maloclusión clase III esqueletal por hipoplasia maxilar puede provocar la retención de algunas piezas dentales, ocupando los caninos superiores el tercer lugar de los dientes más afectados; por lo que es necesario el trabajo interdisciplinario con otras especialidades odontológicas para su correcto abordaje quirúrgico. Mientras que, para la corrección de la hipoplasia maxilar, el expansor Hyrax es el tratamiento ortopédico más utilizado en pacientes con crecimiento remanente. Se presenta caso clínico de paciente femenina de 14 años, clase III esqueletal por hipoplasia maxilar, biotipo mesofacial, perfil cóncavo, mordida cruzada anterior y posterior unilateral izquierda con canino superior derecho retenido. Los principales objetivos fueron: corregir la mordida cruzada y traccionar el canino retenido a su correcta posición. Al finalizar el tratamiento se eliminó la mordida cruzada y se logró la expansión palatina, incorporando así, el canino retenido en el arco dentario. En conclusión, el correcto diagnóstico, el adecuado plan de tratamiento y la atención temprana de la paciente fueron factores indispensables ya que proporcionaron un pronóstico favorable y un tratamiento conservador, evitando futuras complicaciones y tratamientos invasivos.

Skeletal class III malocclusion due to maxillary hypoplasia can cause the retention of some teeth, with the upper canines occupying the third place of the most affected teeth; therefore, interdisciplinary work with other dental specialties is necessary for its correct surgical approach. Likewise, for the correction of maxillary hypoplasia, the Hyrax expander is the most commonly used orthopedic treatment in patients with remnant growth. We present a clinical case of a 14-year-old female patient, skeletal class III due to maxillary hypoplasia, mesofacial biotype, concave profile, left unilateral anterior and posterior crossbite with retained right upper canine. The main objectives were: to correct the crossbite and pull the retained canine to its correct position. At the end of the treatment, the crossbite was eliminated and palatal expansion was achieved, thus incorporating the canine retained in the dental arch. In conclusion, the correct diagnosis, the adequate treatment plan and the early care of the patient were indispensable factors since they pro-vided a favorable prognosis and conservative treatment, avoiding future complications and invasive treatments.

Recent Developments And Trends In Indian Economy

The economy of India is characterized as a developing market economy. It is the world's fifth-largest economy by nominal GDP and the third-largest by purchasing power parity. According to the IMF, on a per capita income basis, India ranked 142nd by GDP and 119th by GDP per capita in 2018. The Indian economy has experienced a notable turnaround in recent years. Growth has rebounded, inflation has moderated, and the budget and trade deficits have narrowed. The Indian Government has also initiated policies and reforms aimed at encouraging investment, strengthening productivity and ensuring fiscal sustainability.

Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi Efficiency on Plant Growth and Nutrient Acquisition: A Comprehensive Review

Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) play a crucial role in enhancing plant growth and nutrient acquisition. The impacts of pressures on crop yield have been made worse by climate change and agricultural practices such as overuse of pesticides and fertilizers, which have also damaged the environment. AMF are one environmentally friendly management strategy that is desperately needed to increase agricultural output. More importantly, it's widely acknowledged that the AMF inoculation confers resistance in host plants to a range of stressful environments, such as heat, salt, drought, metals, and abnormally high or low temperatures. This review paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the current understanding of AMF efficiency on various aspects of plant physiology, including nutrient uptake and overall plant development. The paper synthesizes information from recent studies to present a nuanced perspective on the multifaceted interactions between AMF and plants. Furthermore, challenges and future directions in AMF research are discussed, highlighting the need for a more integrated and holistic approach to harness the full potential of these fungi for enhancing plant productivity and nutrient acquisition.

miR-7160 inhibits gastric cancer cell proliferation and metastasis by silencing SIX1

Upregulation of homeoprotein SIX1 in gastric cancer (GC) is related to tumour proliferation and invasion. MicroRNA-7160 (miR-7160) is a homeoprotein SIX1-targeting miRNA that downregulates miR-7160, leading to cancer development. Total gastric cancer samples were collected from six patients, and relative expression levels of SIX1 mRNA and miRNAs were analysed by qRT-PCR. To evaluate the regulation of SIX1 by miR-7160, pGL3-SIX1-mut, pGL3-SIX1, and miR-7160 mimics transfected into cells using lipofec- tamine 2000. After transfection, proliferation and apoptosis in cultured cells were assessed using the nuclear TUNEL staining and CCK8 reagent, respectively. We demonstrated that the downregulation of miR-7160 in human gastric cancer cells is related to the upregulation of SIX1 mRNA. In gastric cancer cell lines, miR-7160 overexpression could downregulate the expression and inhibit cancer cell proliferation and growth in vitro. However, overexpression of miR-7160 did not increase gastric cancer cell apoptosis. In vitro downregulation of SIX1 decreased vimentin, N-cadherin, and other EMT-related gene expression and increased E-cadherin expression. In brief, miR-7160, by targeting SIX1, inhibits gastric cancer proliferation and cell growth in vitro, which provides an idea for introducing a new treatment option for gastric cancer.

Conocimiento de los padres de familia sobre prevención de infecciones respiratorias agudas / Knowledge of parents about prevention of acute respiratory infections / Conhecimento dos pais sobre prevenção de infecções respiratórias agudas

Muchos países toman como estrategia la educación de salud, para incrementar los conocimientos de la población en la prevención de enfermedades, en caso de los niños menores de 5 años quienes son vulnerables a las infecciones respiratorias agudas (IRA), son sus padres a quienes se evalúa el conocimiento en medidas preventivas de las IRA. Objetivo: determinar el nivel de conocimiento de los padres de familia sobre prevención de IRA de un distrito del Perú. Materiales y métodos: Estudio de tipo básico, nivel descriptivo, transversal y prospectivo. Con una muestra de 210 padres de familia, los cuales fueron escogidos por conveniencia. La técnica de recolección de datos fue la encuesta y el instrumento un cuestionario con sus dos dimensiones, la primera dimensión el de medidas preventivas de CRED (Crecimiento y desarrollo) e inmunizaciones, la segunda dimensión sobre medidas preventivas de las condiciones ambientales, mencionado instrumento paso por el proceso de validez y confiabilidad, luego se entregó el consentimiento informado antes de aplicar el instrumento a la muestra en estudio. Resultados: Las edades de los padres de familia en un 71,43% lo conforman de 18 a 33 años, el nivel de conocimiento de los padres de familia sobre prevención de IRA fue considerado alto con 45,24%, en nivel regular con 31,90% y en nivel deficiente con 22,86%. Conclusión: El nivel de conocimiento de los padres de familia de niños menores de 5 años sobre prevención de IRA fue alto en menos del 50%, siendo mayor en la sumatoria de deficiente y regular

Many countries take health education as a strategy to increase the population's knowledge of disease prevention. In the case of children under 5 years of age who are vulnerable to acute respiratory infections (ARI), it is their parents who are evaluates knowledge of preventive measures for ARI. Objective: determine the level of knowledge of parents about ARI prevention in a district of Peru. Materials and methods: Basic type study, descriptive, transversal and prospective level. With a sample of 210 parents, who were chosen by convenience. The data collection technique was the survey and the instrument was a questionnaire with its two dimensions, the first dimension on preventive measures of CRED (Growth and Development) and immunizations, the second dimension on preventive measures of environmental conditions, mentioned instrument step through the validity and reliability process, then informed consent was given before applying the instrument to the study sample. Results: The ages of the parents in 71.43% are between 18 and 33 years old, the level of knowledge of the parents about ARI prevention was considered high with 45.24%, at a regular level with 31.90% and at a deficient level with 22.86%. Conclusion: The level of knowledge of parents of children under 5 years of age about ARI prevention was high at less than 50%, being higher in the sum of deficient and regular.

Rentabilidad de la ratio angiogénica en el seguimiento de gestantes de alto riesgo de preeclampsia precoz tratadas con ácido acetilsalicílico / Profitability of the angiogenic ratio in the follow-up of pregnant women at high risk of early preeclampsia treated with acetylsalicylic acid

Objetivo: Evaluar el valor predictivo negativo de la ratio antigénica y conocer su rentabilidad para descartar preeclampsia precoz en pacientes de alto riesgo de desarrollarla, con profilaxis de ácido acetilsalicílico. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo transversal que recogió a las gestantes con cribado de preeclampsia precoz de alto riesgo (384 gestantes) en el Hospital Santa Lucía durante el año 2021, para lo que se usó test Elecsys® tabulado a un riesgo mayor a 1/150 en primer trimestre, y que tomaran ácido acetilsalicílico antes de la semana 16, quedando en 368 gestantes vistas en las semanas 20, 26, 31 y 36. Se realizó biometría, ratio angiogénica y doppler. Resultados: La incidencia de preeclampsia precoz en la población fue 4 casos (incidencia 1,08 %). Son significativos por su alto valor predictivo negativo del 100 % de preeclampsia precoz: la ratio angiogénica mayor a 38 en la semana 26 y el doppler de las uterinas en semana 20 y 26. Conclusión: En gestaciones con cribado de alto riesgo de preeclampsia que tomen ácido acetilsalicílico, una ratio angiogénica menor a 38 en la semana 26, además de un doppler uterino normal en semana 20 y 26 permite reducir el seguimiento gestacional(AU)

Objective: Our main objective was to evaluate the negative predictive value of the angiogenic ratio and to know its profitability to rule out early preeclampsia in patients at high risk of early preeclampsia with acetylsalicylic acid prophylaxis. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out that included pregnant women with high-risk early preeclampsia screening (384 pregnant women) at the Santa Lucía Hospital during the year 2021, for which the Elecsys® test tabulated at a risk >1/ was used. 150 in the first trimester, and who take acetylsalicylic acid before week 16, leaving 368 pregnant women seen in weeks 20, 26, 31 and 36, with biometry, angiogenic ratio and Doppler performed. Results: The incidence of early preeclampsia in the population was 4 cases (incidence 1.08%). They are significant due to their high negative predictive value of 100% of early preeclampsia: Angiogenic ratio > 38 in week 26, uterine Doppler in weeks 20 and 26. Conclusion: Pregnancies with high risk screening for preeclampsia who take acid acetylsalicylic acid, an angiogenic ratio < 38 at week 26 in addition to a normal uterine Doppler at weeks 20 and 26 allows for reduced gestational follow-up(AU)

Platelet reserve of Epidermal Growth Factor: approach to a possible emerging concept

Introduction: Epidermal growth factor precursor is immersed in the context to Platelets membrane. The regular procedure to obtain serum implies a barrier to biological understanding of the theoretical meaning of its values. Objective: To describe the effect to modified procedure to measure sample epidermal growth factors and the possible biological implications for this. Method: An in vitro experimental study was carried put, with blood samples from individuals with apparent health history, in adulthood. Serum epidermal growth factor precursor values were determined with the UMELISA-EGF kit recommended by the manufacturer; the experimental variation in sample collection was carried out according to SAMERSAC recommendations for platelet-rich plasma, with adjustments. Results: The average age was 45.89± 3.35 years, in a range of 27 to 62 years. The female sex predominates in a 1.8:1 ratio. Application of the experimental procedure showed significant and notable differences between the epidermal growth factor values (g=17.7; p=0.0001-23); no linear correlation was evident between the values (r= 0.1305; p= 0.6843). The "reserve" value was on average 1498.61 ±160.68 pg*mL-1, observing large effect differences, as well as a similar behavior to a transition value. The observed data suggest, a posteriori, consumption effect on the course of platelet lysis under standard conditions. Conclusions: Epidermal growth factor values are higher after platelet isolation; the existence of an intraplatelet reserve of epidermal growth factor is plausible.

Introducción: El precursor del factor de crecimiento epidérmico está inmerso en el contexto de la membrana plaquetaria. El procedimiento actual para obtener suero implica un reto para una interpretación suficiente del significado biológico de sus valores. Objetivo: Describir el efecto de la modificación del procedimiento de obtención de muestra para la determinación del factor de crecimiento epidérmico, y las posibles implicaciones biológicas de sus resultados. Método: Se llevó a cabo un estudio experimental in vitro, con muestras de sangre de sujetos con antecedentes de salud aparente, en edad adulta. Se determinaron los valores de factor de crecimiento epidérmico sérico con el kit de UMELISA-EGF según recomendaciones del fabricante; la variación experimental en la obtención de la muestra se realizó según recomendaciones de SAMERSAC para plasma rico en plaquetas, con ajustes. Resultados: En la casuística, la edad promedio fue de 45.89± 3.35 años, con rango de 27-62 años. Predominó el sexo femenino en una razón 1.8:1. La aplicación del procedimiento experimental evidenció diferencias significativas y notorias entre los valores de EGF (g=17.7; p=0.0001-23); no se evidenció correlación lineal entre los valores (r= 0.1305; p= 0.6843). El valor de "reserva", fue en promedio de 1498.61±160.68 pg*mL-1, observándose diferencias de efecto grande, así como un comportamiento similar a un valor de transición. Los datos observados sugieren, a posteriori, un efecto de consumo en el curso de la lisis plaquetaria en condiciones estándar. Conclusiones: Los valores del factor de crecimiento epidérmico son superiores luego del aislamiento de las plaquetas; la existencia de una reserva intraplaquetaria de factor de crecimiento epidérmico es plausible.

Examining Economic Hurdles to the Affordability of a Healthy Diet in Tanzania

Tanzania has made significant strides in improving the cost of accessing a healthy diet to enhance health for economic growth. However, it was determined that around 59% of households experience difficulties with affordable access to healthy food, thus prohibiting the expansion of dietary options. This study thus sought to investigate the economic hurdles to the affordability of a healthy diet in Tanzania from 2010 to 2023, specifically to: (i) visualize trends and correlations between the people who cannot afford a healthy diet and socioeconomic indices; (ii) estimate the overall and specific food category costs of a healthy diet, and (iii) compute econometric coefficients related to economic barriers to affordability of a healthy diet. Using descriptive statistics and ordinary least squares (OLS) linear regression models on a panel dataset, the study found significant changes in socioeconomic status over the period. The number of people unable to afford a nutritious diet increased from 30.7 million (53%) in 2010 to 57.2 million in 2023. Despite a decrease in poverty and unemployment rates, the affordability issue persisted due to a 31% rise in the cost of a healthy diet, from $1.988 to $2.866. GDP per capita nearly doubled from $878 to $1,742, indicating economic growth; however, this increase was outpaced by the rising costs of a nutritious diet, reducing actual purchasing power. Urbanization rates increased from 27.4% to 36.4%, potentially contributing to higher living costs. Literacy rates improved from 73% to 93.5%, yet did not significantly impact food affordability. Inflation rates decreased from 7.19% to 4%, suggesting price stability, but this did not address the high cost of a healthy diet. The overall cost of a nutritious diet rose from $1.988 in 2010 to $2.903 in 2023. Animal-based foods consistently had the highest share of diet expenses, followed by starchy staples, while the costs of fruits, legumes, nuts, seeds, vegetables, oils, and fats showed minor increases. In addition, econometric analysis revealed that the macroeconomic challenges to affordable healthy food include inflation, unemployment, poverty level, household income, and the expense of a healthy diet at a probability level of P < 0. 05. The paper recommends directing capital towards the livestock and agricultural production of foodstuffs in a bid to bring down food production costs and therefore retail prices for the improvement of the dietary policy in Tanzania.