bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pitfalls and solutions of the fully-automated radiosynthesis of [11C]metoclopramide
Authors: Pichler Verena , Ozenil Marius , Bamminger Karsten , Vraka Chrysoula , Hacker Marcus , Langer Oliver , Wadsak Wolfgang
Published: December 2019

Background

[11C]Metoclopramide is a new radiotracer for investigating the activity of P-glycoprotein at the blood-brain barrier. A highly stable and reproducible radiosynthesis is a prerequisite for clinical studies applying [11C]metoclopramide or other 11C-labelled radiotracers, therefore all potential pitfalls must be identified and monitored to allow a stable process.

Results

Long-term production (n = 94 in a time range of approximately 2 years) of [11C]metoclopramide synthesized on two commercially available synthesizers yielded 3.9 ± 2.0 GBq of product with a molar activity of 132 ± 164 GBq/μmol and an overall success rate of 93%. During all successful productions, the product quality was in accordance with the recommendations of the European Pharmacopoeia. The most common pitfalls that were identified for the radiosynthesis included poor turnover into [11C]CH3OTf, decomposition of the solvent or insufficient semi-preparative HPLC performance.

Conclusion

The study provides long-term insight in the improved, robust and stable preparation of [11C]metoclopramide for human use.
Hemodynamic differences in isometric counter-pressure maneuvers and their efficacy in vasovagal syncope
Authors: Mitro Peter , Muller Ervin , Lazurova Zora
Published: December 2019

Background

Isometric counter-pressure maneuvers (ICM) were proposed as first-line treatment in patients with vasovagal syncope (VVS). The aim was to study hemodynamic mechanisms and effectiveness of ICM in prevention of head-up tilt (HUT)-induced and spontaneous VVS.

Methods

In 38 patients with VVS (9 men, 28 women, mean age 35.82 ± 15.2 years), following ICM were performed—squatting (SQ), leg crossing with muscle tensing (LCMT), whole-body tensing (WBT), heel raises (HeR), toe extension (TE), and unilateral handgrip (HG). Hemodynamic parameters were recorded during ICM using photopletysmographic principle: blood pressure, heart rate, cardiac output, stroke volume, and total peripheral resistance. Clinical efficacy of ICM was assessed during HUT-induced presyncope. The recurrence of syncope and quality of life were also evaluated during 26 ± 7 month follow-up period.

Results

All maneuvers increased mean arterial pressure. The hemodynamic background of ICM was not uniform. In most ICM (LCMT, WBT, HeR, and TE), an increase in CO due to simultaneous increase in HR and SV was observed. In SQ, the underlying mechanism was augmentation of stroke volume by increased venous return. In unilateral HG, a rise in peripheral resistance was the principal mechanism. ICM were able to prevent syncope in 47% of patients during HUT-induced presyncope and in 71% of patients during spontaneous presyncope. Quality of life improved in all patients.

Conclusions

ICM increase blood pressure by variable hemodynamic mechanisms. ICM effectively counteract the HUT-induced and spontaneous vasovagal syncope and improve quality of life.
Validation of diagnostic codes of major clinical outcomes in a National Health Insurance database
Authors: Park Jiesuck , Kwon Soonil , Choi Eue-Keun , Choi You-jung , Lee Euijae , Choe Wonseok , Lee So-Ryoung , Cha Myung-Jin , Lim Woo-Hyun , Oh Seil
Published: December 2019

Background and objectives

The Korean National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) database has been widely used for cardiovascular research. We validated the primary diagnostic codes of major clinical outcomes, including acute myocardial infarction (AMI), gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB), stroke, and intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) used for Korea NHIS claims.

Subjects and methods

From 2016 to 2017, 800 patients with primary diagnostic codes of AMI, GIB, stroke, or ICH at discharge were randomly selected from a single tertiary medical center in Korea (200 patients per each diagnosis). The positive predictive value (PPV), sensitivity, and specificity of the primary diagnostic codes were calculated using hospital medical record review as the gold standard. Further improvement in the diagnostic validity of the codes was assessed by combining clinical information such as duration of hospitalization, blood transfusion, brain imaging studies, or prescription records of antithrombotic agents.

Results

Among 200 patients with AMI as the primary discharge diagnosis, 184 patients were clinically confirmed (PPV of 92.0%). For GIB, 184 (92.0%) patients with the primary discharge diagnosis were verified to have true GIB events, showing PPV of 92%. For stroke, 181 (90.5%) patients were clinically confirmed with true stroke events. For ICH, 143 (71.5%) patients were verified to be true ICH events. In stroke and ICH, the PPV and specificity improved after combining with the hospitalization duration, imaging studies, and prescription of antithrombotic agents.

Conclusions

For major clinical outcomes in the NHIS database, the primary diagnostic codes showed favorable reliability. For stroke and ICH, considerations of relevant clinical information could improve the accuracy of diagnosis.
Short tip–more function? Atrial fibrillation ablation using the novel third-generation cryoballoon in resected pulmonary vein
Authors: Chen Shaojie , Schmidt Boris , Bordignon Stefano , Bologna Fabrizio , Chun K. R. Julian
Published: December 2019

Background

Cryoballoon ablation is an established procedure for atrial fibrillation (AF). Patients who had previous pulmonary surgery undergoing pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) were seldom reported.

Case presentation

We describe an AF ablation using the novel short-tip third-generation cryoballoon in a patient with resected pulmonary vein. All pulmonary veins were successfully isolated without complication. The short-tip third-generation cryoballoon shows advantageous profile in PVI for AF patients with previous pulmonary surgery.

Conclusions

This report indicates that for AF patient who had previous resected PV surgery, the short-tip CB 3 provides an ideal device option for real-time PVI.
Clinicopathological features of Egyptian colorectal cancer patients regarding somatic genetic mutations especially in KRAS gene and microsatellite instability status: a pilot study
Authors: Kassem Neemat M. , Emera Gamal , Kassem Hebatallah A. , Medhat Nashwa , Nagdy Basant , Tareq Mustafa , Moneim Rabab Abdel , Abdulla Mohammed , El Metenawy Wafaa H.
Published: December 2019

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cause of cancer-related deaths which contributes to a significant public health problem worldwide with 1.8 million new cases and almost 861,000 deaths in 2018 according to the World Health Organization. It exhibits 7.4% of all diagnosed cancer cases in the region of the Middle East and North Africa. Molecular changes that happen in CRCs are chromosomal instability, microsatellite instability (MSI), and CpG island methylator phenotype. The human RAS family (KRAS, NRAS, and HRAS) is the most frequently mutated oncogenes in human cancer appearing in 45% of colon cancers. Determining MSI status across CRCs offers the opportunity to identify patients who are likely to respond to targeted therapies such as anti-PD-1. Therefore, a method to efficiently determine MSI status for every cancer patient is needed.

Results

KRAS mutations were detected in 31.6% of CRC patients, namely in older patients (p = 0.003). Codons 12 and 13 constituted 5/6 (83.3%) and 1/6 (16.7%) of all KRAS mutations, respectively. We found three mutations G12D, G12C, and G13D which occur as a result of substitution at c.35G>A, c.34G>T, and c.38G>A and have been detected in 4/6 (66.6%), 1/6 (16.7%), and 1/6 (16.7%) patients, respectively. Eleven (57.9%) patients had microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) CRC. A higher percentage of MSI-H CRC was detected in female patients (p = 0.048). Eight patients had both MSI-H CRC and wild KRAS mutation with no statistical significance was found between MSI status and KRAS mutation in these studied patients.

Conclusion

In conclusion, considering that KRAS mutations confer resistance to EGFR inhibitors, patients who have CRC with KRAS mutation could receive more tailored management by defining MSI status. MSI-high patients have enhanced responsiveness to anti-PD-1 therapies. Thus, the question arises as to whether it is worth investigating this association in the routine clinical setting or not. Further studies with a larger number of patients are needed to assess the impact of MSI status on Egyptian CRC care.
Claudia Coca’s Chola Power
Authors: Daly Tara
Published: December 2019

This essay showcases the work of Claudia Coca, a contemporary pop artist from Lima, Peru whose paintings and drawings critique the links between race, gender, and class in a decolonial, transnational frame. First, the essay explores the way Coca celebrates the Peruvian chola by presenting herself as an empowered subject instead of as an insulted object in her paintings. While the term chola has historically been used derogatorily, Coca reappropriates her chola identity and reclaims it as her own, consequently subverting its prejudicial, racist origins. Second, the essay studies the critiques she performs of the “afterlives of colonialism” on the natural and cultural environment in her most recent series of drawings from 2017. She demonstrates that not only human bodies, but other natural materials are tangled up with the project of cultural colonization. Throughout the article, the work of Chela Sandoval is drawn on to argue that Coca practices an oppositional aesthetic that makes sensible the perspectives of subjects whose voices and bodies have been disparaged instead of valued within an uneven global capitalist system.
Listening in Arabic
Authors: Maghbouleh Neda , Omar Laila , Milkie Melissa A. , Peng Ito
Published: December 2019

This article reflects upon three developments emergent from a feminist approach in research with Syrian newcomer mothers in Toronto, Canada. First, a feminist approach shapes how the authors build their research team and facilitate internal meetings as a diverse, multigenerational group open to learning from others. Second, a feminist approach requires that the authors center mothers’ words through the critical practice of ensuring shared Arabic language and local knowledge in the research process. The authors offer excerpts in Arabic and English from participants’ narratives to describe how giving nuance to multiple forms of expression is key to a feminist practice of translation. Third, the authors describe how this approach opens their project to involve a range of participatory-action activities driven by the voices and desires of participants. The authors end by summarizing their ethical and methodological practices in light of inequalities at the intersection of citizenship status, class, nation, race, and other categories of asymmetrical power. These inequalities shape the authors’ attempts to reorganize conventional participant-researcher and student-faculty dynamics in their work together.
Use of in-gel peroxidase assay for cytochrome c to visualize mitochondrial complexes III and IV
Authors: Hara Tsukasa , Shibata Yuma , Amagai Ryosuke , Okado-Matsumoto Ayako
Published: December 2019

The in-gel activity assay (IGA) is a powerful technique that uses enzymatic activity and compares intensities of detected bands in mitochondrial respiratory chain supercomplexes, and it is applicable to eukaryotic organisms. However, no IGA has been established for complex III because of the difficulty of access by ubiquinol, a substrate for complex III. Herein, we demonstrate that cytochrome c (Cyt c) showed peroxidase activity on IGA as a component of complexes III and IV. We used pre-incubation with sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) before IGA to loosen complexes in the gel after high-resolution clear native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (hrCN-PAGE), a refinement of blue native PAGE. The signals of IGA based on peroxidase activity were obtained using enhanced chemiluminescence solution. Then, the gel was directly used in western blotting or hrCN/SDS 2-dimensional PAGE. Our findings indicate that IGA for Cyt c reflected the indirect activity of complexes III and IV.
Establishment and validation of an endoplasmic reticulum stress reporter to monitor zebrafish ATF6 activity in development and disease
Authors: Clark Eric M. , Nonarath Hannah J. T. , Bostrom Jonathan R. , Link Brian A.
Published: December 2019

Induction of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress is associated with diverse developmental and degenerative diseases. Modified ER homeostasis causes activation of conserved stress pathways at the ER called the unfolded protein response (UPR). ATF6 is a transcription factor activated during ER stress as part of a coordinated UPR. ATF6 resides at the ER and, upon activation, is transported to the Golgi apparatus, where it is cleaved by proteases to create an amino-terminal cytoplasmic fragment (ATF6f). ATF6f translocates to the nucleus to activate transcriptional targets. Here, we describe the establishment and validation of zebrafish reporter lines for ATF6 activity. These transgenic lines are based on a defined and multimerized ATF6 consensus site, which drives either eGFP or destabilized eGFP, enabling dynamic study of ATF6 activity during development and disease. The results show that the reporter is specific for the ATF6 pathway, active during development and induced in disease models known to engage UPR. Specifically, during development, ATF6 activity is highest in the lens, skeletal muscle, fins and gills. The reporter is also activated by common chemical inducers of ER stress, including tunicamycin, thapsigargin and brefeldin A, as well as by heat shock. In models for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and cone dystrophy, ATF6 reporter expression is induced in spinal cord interneurons or photoreceptors, respectively, suggesting a role for ATF6 response in multiple neurodegenerative diseases. Collectively our results show that these ATF6 reporters can be used to monitor ATF6 activity changes throughout development and in zebrafish models of disease.

This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.
Evaluating 2D and 3D serious games: The significance of student-player characteristics
Authors: Kaimara Polyxeni , Fokides Emmanuel , Oikonomou Andreas , Atsikpasi Penelope , Deliyannis Ioannis
Published: December 2019

Τα σοβαρά παιχνίδια (ψηφιακά εκπαιδευτικά παιχνίδια μαθησιακού σκοπού)  κερδίζουν ολοένα και περισσότερο το ενδιαφέρον πολλών μελετητών της μαθησιακής διαδικασίας όλων των εκπαιδευτικών επιπέδων. Σημαντικές πτυχές της εφαρμογής τους στην εκπαίδευση σχετίζονται με τα χαρακτηριστικά τους, τη συνάφειά τους με την παιδαγωγική και τις απόψεις των μαθητών. Αυτή η ποσοτική έρευνα επικεντρώθηκε στα χαρακτηριστικά των φοιτητών παιδαγωγικών τμημάτων (φύλο, επιστημονικό υπόβαθρο, προηγούμενη εμπειρία με παιχνίδια και δεξιότητες ΤΠΕ) και στους παράγοντες που επηρεάζουν και διαμορφώνουν την μαθησιακή εμπειρία τους όταν παίζουν σοβαρά παιχνίδια δύο (2D) και τριών (3D) διαστάσεων, όπως είναι η εμβύθιση, η απόλαυση, η υποκειμενική αντίληψη των μαθητών σχετικά με τη χρησιμότητά τους για τη βελτίωση της γνώσης, την επάρκεια της αφήγησης, τον ρεαλισμό, την ανατροφοδότηση, την οπτικοακουστική επάρκεια, τη συνάφειά τους με τα προσωπικά ενδιαφέροντά τους, τη σαφήνεια του στόχου τους, την ευκολία χρήσης τους, την καταλληλότητα του μαθησιακού υλικού και τα κίνητρα. Συνολικά 542 φοιτητές συμμετείχαν στη μελέτη. Σειρά μη παραμετρικών αναλύσεων (Mann-Whitney U tests και Kruskal-Wallis H tests) αποκάλυψε ότι οι φοιτητές προτίμησαν το 2D παιχνίδι. Το φύλο, το επιστημονικό υπόβαθρο και οι δεξιότητες στις ΤΠΕ δεν είχαν αντίκτυπο στις απόψεις τους. Από την άλλη πλευρά, οι φοιτητές με υψηλή ικανότητα στη χρήση των παιχνιδιών φαίνεται να έχουν καλύτερη μαθησιακή εμπειρία, καθώς οι βαθμολογίες τους στους περισσότερους παράγοντες ήταν υψηλότερες σε σύγκριση με τους φοιτητές με χαμηλότερη ικανότητα. Αυτά τα αποτελέσματα μας οδήγησαν να προσανατολιστούμε στην εξέταση άλλων πτυχών/δεξιοτήτων των φοιτητών πέρα από τα συνήθη δημογραφικά στοιχεία, όπως είναι η αυτορρύθμιση, η χωρική ικανότητα και η νοητική περιστροφή και να ερευνήσουμε τη δυνατότητα των σοβαρών παιχνιδιών να βελτιώσουν αυτές τις δεξιότητες.
Παράδοση, Τέχνη και Εκπαίδευση στο Λαογραφικό και Εθνολογικό Μουσείο Μακεδονίας-Θράκης
Authors: Κερτεμελίδου Παρασκευή
Published: December 2019

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The role of using a special support surface in heel pressure ulcers appearance in intensive care unit patients
Authors: Karabekiou Eirini , Kadda Olga , Marvaki Christina , Routsi Christina
Published: December 2019

Introduction: Intensive Care Unit (ICU) patients suffer complications such as the development of pressure ulcers. Aim: The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between the use of special designed heel protector and the frequency and severity of heel pressure ulcers occurrence in ICU patients. Material and Method: The studied sample consisted of 40 patients hospitalized in ICU of a general hospital in Attica. Hospital Acquired Skin Injury (HASI) and Cubin Jackson (Score Cubin-Jackson) were used and data analysis was performed by the statistical package SPSS 19. Results: 62,5% of the studied sample were men, with mean age 59±17.7 years and length of hospital stay 21.4±18 days. The preventive intervention applied in the present study was effective, as no patient develop pressure ulcers. However, the incidence of tissue lesions at the unstressed edge did not appear to be influenced by factors such as patient age (p = 0.586), gender (p = 0.674 F = 0.180), total blood protein levels (p = 0.732 ), albumin levels (0.185) and hematocrit (p = 0.669). Conclusions: In those patients that the pressure ulcers heel protectors were applied no one develops pressure ulcers during their stay in ICU. On the contrary, in those patients
Radial versus femoral access in cardiac catheterization and angioplasty. a comparative study
Authors: Mavrogianni Georgia , Karantzoula Evaggelia , Toulia Georgia , Kiriakopoulos Vasilios , Kadda Olga
Published: December 2019

Introduction: The radial artery’s use for performing cardiac catheterization, angiography and angioplasty of the coronary vessels, is an alternative way versus the access widely utilized femoral artery.Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the potential advantages of radial versus femoral access.Material and Method: The study population was 202 patients, who were referred to coronary angiography or intervention coronary angioplasty.Statistical analysis was performed using the statistical package SPSS ver.18. For evaluation of pain was used Visual Numeric Pain Intensity Scale (visual analogue scale, VAS), which comprises using a calibrated scale of 0- 10.Results: From 1 to 30 May 2014 underwent coronary angiography in 202 patients, of whom 112 (55.4%) with RA and 90 (44.6%) with FA.Patients in the RA group showed higher VAS scores (1 ± 0.1) than those in FA group after catheterization (0.2 ± 0.4) P <0.001 + . In contrast, patients in the FA group had higher percentage of injuries / extravasations (13.3%) compared with the RA group (0.9%) P <0.001. Τhe time fluoroscopic was significantly higher in the FA (12.6 ± 10.5) compared to RA (7.6 ± 8.3) P <0.001. About the time of hospitalization, those who underwent femoral access were hospitalized significantly longer (2.6 ± 1.3) compared to patients who underwent radial access (2 ± 1.3) P <0.001+ .Conclusions: The efficacy and safety of the method in combination with the smallest rate of local complications are able to establish access way first choice in hemodynamically laboratories.
Assessment of noise pollution in operating theatre
Authors: Svardagalou Paraskevi , Kalogianni Antonia , Papageorgiou Dimitris
Published: December 2019

Introduction: Noise is considered as a common and widespread problem in the working environment. There is a matter of noise pollution in operating theatres, which has side effects on health and working efficiency of the personnel.Aim: The assessment of the level of noise in the operating room and the analysis of the burnout and health effects of the healthcare staff working in a tertiary hospital.Material and Methods: Measurements were performed with sound meters in all three operating theatre zones during all three shifts. At the same time, the effect of noise on workers was investigated through self-completion of questionnaires during their work.Results: The results of the medical staff have shown that the workplace is noisy (59.2%) and 53.4% stated that the noise is disturbing. The majority of physicians (70%), in terms of their health effects due to noise, said they were not significantly affected, with the exception of anxiety and discomfort (40%). Relatively high professional burnout has proven in medical staff (75,7% high depersonalization and 48,6% emotional exhaustion) . As far as the responses of the nursing staff are concerned, 63% said that the workplace was noisy and 53.7% replied that the noise was disturbing. The nursing staff also stated that they are irritable (37,1%) and they feel stress(48,2%) and fatigue(72,2%). The professional burnout of nurses was also high (59,3% high depersonalization and 61,1% emotional exhaustion) . Statistically significant differences were found between medical and nursing staff in assessing exposure to noise and the symptoms caused by it, with nursing staff being more influenced by operating room noise (p≤0.05). Differences were also found among workers in different operational zones and specialties (p≤0.05).Conclusions: The results suggest the presence of noise pollution with impact on working performance. Noise effected  health staff  in a negative way due to specialty, different operational zone and burn out levels.
Severity and mortality of patients undergoing continuous haemodiafiltration in the icu
Authors: Fegari Kasiani , Rikos Nikolaos , Vasilopoulos Georgios , Marvaki Christina
Published: December 2019

Εισαγωγή: Ανεξάρτητα από την πρωτοπαθή νόσο η οξεία νεφρική βλάβη(ΟΝΒ) αποτελεί επιπρόσθετο επιβαρυντικό παράγοντα που αυξάνει τη νοσοκομειακή θνητότητα και βαρύτητα. . Έχει υπολογιστεί ότι στους ασθενείς της Μονάδας Εντατικής Θεραπείας (ΜΕΘ) που βρίσκονται σε μηχανική υποστήριξη της αναπνοής, ένα ποσοστό από 5%-35% θα εμφανίσει σε κάποια φάση της νοσηλείας του κάποιου βαθμού οξεία νεφρική ανεπάρκεια, η οποία σχετίζεται με θνητότητα που ξεπερνά το 20%.Σκοπός: Σκοπός της παρούσας ερευνητικής μελέτης είναι η διερεύνηση της βαρύτητας και θνητότητας των ασθενών που υποβάλλονται σε συνεχή αιμοδιαδιήθηση σε  ΜΕΘ.Υλικό και Μέθοδος: Η μελέτη είναι μία  περιγραφική ανάλυση όλων των ασθενών που υπεβλήθησαν  σε συνεχή αιμοδιαδιήθηση στη ΜΕΘ μεταξύ Απριλίου 2017 και Δεκεμβρίου 2017. Καταγράφηκαν δημογραφικά στοιχεία όπως  ηλικία, φύλο διάγνωση εισαγωγής, διάρκεια νοσηλείας και έκβαση. Επίσης καταγράφηκε η διάρκεια της κάθε συνεδρίας αιμοδιαδιήθησης  καθώς και ειδικά κλινικά δεδομένα που αφορούσαν τη θεραπεία νεφρικής υποκατάστασης.Αποτελέσματα: Το δείγμα αποτέλεσαν  33 ασθενείς (32,3%) οι οποίοι υπεβλήθησαν σε συνεχή αιμοδιαδιήθηση (CVVHDF)το χρονικό διάστημα της μελέτης. Η  μέση ηλικία του δείγματος ήταν τα  72,7+ 9,46 έτη, Η διάμεση διάρκεια νοσηλείας ήταν 16,5 ημέρες (1-91 ημέρες). ενώ μέση τιμή στο APACHE II των ασθενών κατά την εισαγωγή ήταν 28,5 +9,08. Η θνητότητα στο υπό μελέτη δείγμα ανήλθε στο   60,6%.Συμπεράσματα: Το υψηλό κόστος της μεθόδου καθώς και το υψηλό ποσοστό θνητότητας των ασθενών,   καθιστά αναγκαίο τον προσδιορισμό σαφών κριτηρίων εφαρμογής της μεθόδου, συνεχούς αξιολόγησης και εκτίμησης της αποτελεσματικότητας αυτής, καθώς και συνεχή εκπαίδευση του προσωπικού στη χρήση αντίστοιχων τεχνολογιών.
Pleural effusion in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft and valve replacement: a population study
Authors: Rossolatou Maria , Papageorgiou Dimitris , Toylia Georgia , Vasilopoulos Georgios
Published: December 2019

Introduction: The postoperative pleural effusion (PE) is common in patients who undergo cardiac surgery. Most of these effusions develop as a consequence of the surgical procedure itself and follow a generally benign course. The characteristics of PE and the factors predisposing factors should be documented further.Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of PE after cardiac surgery. And also to determine whether this prevale is related to the type of cardiac surgery.Material and Methods: This retrospective study was conducted at a large private hospital in Athens. The sample of the study was all adult patients who undergo coronary artery bypass graft (CABG), valve replacement or a combination of these surgeries. A special form was made to record patients’ demographic and clinical data. Descriptive statistics and correlation studies were performed with the SPSS 22.0, at significant level a=0.05.Results: Among the 118 patients, who included in this study, 42.4% underwent CABG surgery, 29.7% valve surgery, and 28% a combination of two types of surgery. Postoperative pleural effusion was developed in 40% of those who underwent CABG, 42.9% of those who underwent cardiac valve surgery, and 42.4% of those who underwent in both types of surgeries. The mean time development of PE was 6.65 days for the CABG group, 4.8 days for the valve group and 8.7 days for the CABG +valve group. There was no statistically significant difference in the demographic and clinical data of patients with pleural effusion according the type of cardiac surgery.Conclusions: Postoperative PE is a common complication at cardiac surgery and is more common in patients undergoing surgical recuperation of valve.
Health And Research Journal:A new Beggining
Authors: Marvaki Christina
Published: December 2019

2019: it was a joint decision of the journal’s Editorial Board, to change the language from Greek to English. The Greek language is the language that is appreciated and recognized internationally as the language with an amazing and unique wealth. This change has one purpose and that is, to OPEN “out of borders”, a movement that will provide and secure opportunities of international prospect.Three years ago, in 2015, we decided to publish the HEALTH and RESEARCH JOURNAL, with the aim of publishing all MSc dissertations of postgraduate students. Today we believe that this goal needs to be modified. The journal, besides the Master's Program "Intensive Care Units" (which is the main publisher), collaborates and supports the Master's Program of “Clinical and Experimental Neurosurgery”, the Master's Program of “Hellenic Society for Ergospirometry, Exercise and Rehabilitation” and the “Hellenic Society of Nursing Research and Education” which is the co-publisher. The road has already been opened and in the near future our journal will collaborate with the National Documentation Center, which will give new prospect. We hope that this change will receive the acceptance and consent we expect. Value, reliability and scientific approach depend on the entire scientific community that will decide to participate by publishing their manuscripts. We hope the new year to bring something new to HEALTH and RESEARCH JOURNAL and to make it equal to many remarkable and reputable scientific journals.Happy New Year with peace, health and scientific achievements.The Editorial Board
Communications Methods to patients with locked-in syndrome
Authors: Tzogia Maria , Papageorgiou Dimitrios
Published: December 2019

ntroduction: Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) that promote communication with individuals suffering from locked-in syndrome (LIS), are variously superior to the classic methods. These interfaces, whether intrusive or not, have evolved and are now accessible to patients, thus contributing mainly to the production of written speech, to the control of personal computers, and to the management of the patient’s environment. Aim: The aim of the present review was to evaluate the effectiveness with LIS patients of communication methods using technology. Methodology: The search of the Greek and international bibliography involved the databases: Pubmed, Cinahl, Sciverse Scopus Proquest, Researchgate, Cochranelibrary, etc. 1,652 items were found and 15 were judged appropriate for study. Results: There is a wide variety of available BCIs, depending on the minimum demands made on the user, the needs served and the time the user takes to learn them. Communication remains a time-consuming process and thus a source of great anxiety to patients. Furthermore, there is a slight superiority in the possibilities offered by intrusive BCIs. However, they are often not preferred because they require a surgical operation. Conclusions: There is an identified need to find new methods, or to modify already existing ones, for the more effective communication with patients who suffer from all forms of LIS. However, the dysfunctions in the control of the sensorimotor rhythms (due to alterations or damage to the cerebral cortex) may adversely impact the perfection of BCI technology.
Evaluation of the degree of preparedness in mass accidents and disasters of a general hospital in Attica
Authors: Farmaki Anastasia , Kotanidou Anastasia
Published: December 2019

ntroduction: Preparedness against mass and technological disasters is a fundamental obligation of contemporary hospitals. Aim: The investigation and evaluation the degree of preparedness in mass accidents and disasters of a General Hospital in Attica. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted where the data collection was based on stratified sampling, with a self-completed questionnaire, and lasted from August to September 2015. The study sample consisted of 300 members of hospital staff. A structured questionnaire was used, where the higher the score the higher the hospital's degree of preparedness. Results: Τhe majority (58.3%) declared that the hospital has experience in dealing with the consequences of a mass disaster. However, a small percentage (21.7%) was aware of the business plans. 42.7% has been trained in first-aid care, but only 7.7% has been involved in activity of major accident and disaster. Also, 50.6% believed that the staff’s responsiveness is good/very good, while 44.3% believed that it is moderate. Hospital preparedness was rated good/very good by 46% and moderate by 41%. However, the total preparedness of hospital was 11 (± 4.7), which means moderate and in particular 41.7% of the participants scored their preparedness from 6 to 10 degrees. Furthermore,theanalysishasshownthatthehospital’sdegreeof preparednessisinfluencedbyage, professional status, responsibility, and years of experience. Conclusions: The preparedness of hospital was moderately assessed. It is therefore necessary to inform and train staff in managing major accidents and disasters.
Anxiety control as a means of preventing the mortality and morbidity of patients undergoing cardiac surgery
Authors: Kalogianni Antonia
Published: December 2019

Not available
Case-management for nursing care of patient with stroke: a cross-cultural critical reflective analysis
Authors: Theofanidis Dimitrios
Published: December 2019

Introduction: Stroke remains a heavy financial burden on health care systems around the world. Yet, health care reforms have called for sophisticated management systems in order to provide high-quality care on equal terms for the entire population within a cost-conscious environment. Aim: The main aim of this discussion paper is to define and reflect cross-culturally on the merits of the Case-Management (CM) approach for contemporary stroke care delivery.Methods: Critical reflective analysis was used for this paper’s needs, whereby readers are gradually introduced to skills of critical and reflective thinking. This can then be applied into a clinical context which may assist nurses to achieve a better understanding of their professional role within the complexities of contemporary health care delivery.Discussion: An overview for stroke care differences between Greece and USA is provided using the following critical analysis components: Situation, Experience evaluated, Personal Reflections and Opportunities for Change.Conclusions: CM in the USA aims to meet the urgent challenges of stroke care. CMs are health care professionals whose role is to serve as client advocates and to coordinate services whilst assuring financial and gate keeping functions as required. As these services are currently unavailable in Greece, despite adverse financial circumstances, efforts should be made to introduce a culturally adopted CM initiative for stroke care.
Leading causes of bronchial asthma exacerbation
Authors: Papadakou Georgia , Dokoutsidou Eleni , Kadda Olga , Marvaki Aikaterini
Published: December 2019

Introduction: Bronchial asthma is one of the most common chronic respiratory diseases. The frequency of occurrence differs from country to country, ranging from 1-18%.Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the causes leading to exacerbation of bronchial asthma.Material and Methods: Α prospective observational study. The studied sample consisted of 82 patients who attended the emergency department or hospitalized in pulmonary clinics of Athens General Hospital, due to exacerbation of bronchial asthma. For data collection a specific registration form was used. Data analysis was performed with the statistical package Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS).Results: Twenty two patients (26.8%) were male. The majority of patients (37.8%, n=31) were aged 46-65 years old. There were no statistically significant differences among patients admitted to the hospital for asthma exacerbation, during the last year and factors such as smoking, type of occupation, place of residence and pet ownership. Statistically significant correlation was found between patients who were trained for taking their medication, those who comply with medical orders and history of asthma exacerbation during the last year, (p<0.05).Conclusions: Patients suffering from bronchial asthma education is an integral part of disease prevention and treatment strategies with a view to comply with medication treatment.
Attitudes and perceptions of health professionals towards mental patients attending emergency room
Authors: Douki Stamatina , Marvaki Christina , Toulia Georgia , Stavropoulou Areti
Published: December 2019

Introduction: Mental health patients are a group of population that has predominantly been stigmatized throughout the centuries. Aim: The aim of the present study was to explore attitudes of health professionals in the emergency department towards the mentally ill.Material and Methods: The sample of the study consisted of 278 health professionals working in Emergency Departments. A questionnaire scale O.M.I. (Opinion about Mental Illness) was used for data collection. Data analysis was performed with the statistical package Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) ver.22.Results: The correlation of five O.M.I. scale factors there is no statistically significant relationship (p-value> 0.05) with the variables sex and years of employment. Age had a statistically significant relationship (p-value=0.034) with the factor "social integration" and has no statistically significant relationship (p-value> 0.05) with the remaining factors O.M.I. scale ("Social discrimination", "social constraint", "social care" and "ground"). In association with education there is a statistically significant relationship with the agents 'social discrimination'(p-value<0.001),  'social restriction'(p-value=0.001),  and "ground"(p-value=0.045) and there statistically significant relationship (p-value> 0.05) with the "social inclusion"(p-value<0.001) and "social care" specialty.The variable has a statistically significant difference (p-value <0.05) the factor "social distinction” (p-value<0.001) between doctors andnurses, in the "social restriction 'among doctors and nurses and between nurses and other disciplines and the factor "social integration"(p-value<0.001) between physicians-nurses and doctors with other specialties.Conclusions: The statistical analysis of the questionnaires (O.M.I. scale) distributed showed that the variables age, educational level, specialty affect the attitudes and perceptions of health professionals towards the mentally ill (negative stops), which form the stigma of mental illness.
Benchmarkıng ındıcators nursing workload ın Intensıve Care Unıts
Authors: Kollia Thomai , Argyriou Georgios , Prevyzi Evangelia , Nestor Athanasia , Kotanidou Anastasia , Marvaki Christina
Published: December 2019

Introduction: The high and continues increasing nursing workload in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) is a remarkable increase in mortality factor of heavy ill patients.Aim: The aim of this study was a comparison evaluation between the score of Nursing Workload (NW), Nursing Activity Score (NAS) and Comprehensive Nursing Intervention Score (CNIS) in nurses who treat critically ill patients in Intensive Care Unit (ICU).Material and Methods: The studied population was 100 patients who were hospitalized in Intensive Care Units (ICU) hospitals in Athens and private clinic of Piraeus. It was used a special designed questionnaire by the researchers based on Nursing Activity Score (NAS) score and Comprehensive Nursing Intervention Score (CNIS) score. Data analysis was performed with the statistical package SPSS 17.0.Results: The 56% of study were men. The average age of the sample was 74 ± 15 years. The average Nursing Activity Score (NAS) for the first 10 days of hospitalization was 55, 4 ± 4, 9 and Comprehensive Nursing Intervention Score (CNIS) was 129, 5 ± 15, 4. Compared with indicators gravity nursing workload, with prognostic score APACHE II, SAPS II, the Glasgow scale and with laboratory markers creatinine and white blood showed that the Nursing Activity Score (NAS) and Comprehensive Nursing Intervention Score (CNIS) indicators a statistically significant difference (p = 0.005 and p <0.001, respectively) compared with patient outcome.Conclusions: The nursing workload (NW) as measured on scales Nursing Activity Score (NAS) and Comprehensive Nursing Intervention Score (CNIS).  Both scales are equality and validity. Similarly, the outcome of these patients was associated with disease severity as measured by the score APACHE II and SAPS II.
High dependency unit patients’ satisfaction from health care provided
Authors: Apostolou Eleni , Papageorgiou Dimitrios , Dokoutsidou Eleni
Published: December 2019

Introduction: Patient satisfaction, while influenced by many factors, is a multidimensional phenomenon, which could be used to optimize the quality of the services provided by hospitals, as well as in the patient-centered care.Aim: The aim of the present study was to explore High Dependency Unit (HDU) patients’ satisfaction from health care provided. Material and Method: The studied sample consisted of 101 HDU patients of a general hospital in Attica. Data collection was conducted through the questionnaire of Inpatient Survey Questionnaire, which included demographic data as well as questions relevant to the hospitalization characteristics. Data analysis was performed by the statistical package SPSS ver.22.  Results: Patients were satisfied both by the general hospital provisions and staff. A statistically significant difference (t(99) = 2,69 , p = ,008) was found between the subscale “Room” with the majority of men to score higher these services (Μ = 3,83, Τ.Α. = 0,34) compared to women (Μ = 3,65, Τ.Α. = 0,35). Men also scored higher  (t(97) = 2,40 p = ,018) the subscale “nursing staff” (Μ = 4,30, Τ.Α. = 0,21) ) compared to women (Μ = 4,17, Τ.Α. = 0,32). A statistically significant difference (t(99) = 2,37, p = ,020) was found between the subscale “food” with the majority of older patient to score higher these services (Μ = 4,06, Τ.Α. = 0,36) than the youngest patients (Μ = 3,88, Τ.Α. = 0,39).Conclusions: Patient satisfaction is a vital factor for optimizing hospital services, is influenced by multiple factors and needs further research so that there will be effective strategies which will focus on optimizing the degree at which patients’ needs are met.
Health Promotion in contemporary world
Authors: Maria Saridi
Published: December 2019

Not available
Acute kidney injury. the need for renal replacement therapy and complications during the application
Authors: Karpathiou Katerina , Panagidis Dimitris , Kadda Olga , Dokoutsidou Helen , Routsi Christine , Nanas Serafim
Published: December 2019

Introduction: Acute kidney  injury (AKI) is a  very common complication of critically ill patients in ICU. It  is  associated  with significantly increased morbidity and mortality. Renal replacement is a treatment with a lot of complications.Aim: The  aim of  the present  study  was  to  observe the incidence of  AKI, the need for treatment with continuous renal replacement and the problems during the  therapy.Material and Methods: This  is  an  observational  study. The study sample were patients admitted to the ICU of General  hospital ‘’Evagelismos’’. AKI, was defined according to the  RIFLE criteria. For quantitative variables analysis was used the test of independence through '' t-test (Independent Samples T-Test) '', while the quality was analyzed by X2 test of independence. The analysis was performed with SPSS 19.0 statistical package.Results: Of the 192 study patients, 28% had AKI and the 17% received renal replacement therapy. AKI is associated with increased mortality which increases as increases the severity. The most commonly problems of treatment were:  hypothermia to 57.5%, hypotension and clotting filters in 54.5% and 51.5%, respectively. Factor that affect early clotting of the extracorporeal circulation, is  the use of heparin versus citrate as anticoagulation.Conclusions: AKI  is  associated with severe  mortality which increases as increases the severe  of  AKI  stage , respectively. Factor that is associated with higher rates of unsuccessful completion of treatment, is the choice  of  anticoagulation  strategy.
Teamwork in cardiac rehabilitation
Authors: Kadda Olga
Published: December 2019

No abstract available
Acupuncture, Alternative - Complementary Therapy in the Treatment of Chronic Pain
Authors: Giavasopoulos Evangelos
Published: December 2019

No abstract available
Benefits of home care for children with advanced cancer
Authors: Kiriaki Panagiota , Saridi Maria
Published: December 2019

Introduction: It is considered that the home nursing care is better than the hospital care for a child with cancer because of the fact that the environment of a hospital may provoke a kind of psycho-emotional burden.Aim: The purpose of this review was to investigate literature which concerns the hospital care of pediatric patients with advanced cancer and the size of psycho-emotional burden on these children.Materials and methods: The data search was made in international databases for the period 2000-2015 and in earlier typical studies which signal the beginning of home care for children with cancer.Results: Pediatric patients receiving home health care are vulnerable groups of the population with specific and unique needs. Home care for children with life-threatening diseases is a process which aims to provide quality of life to both children and their family. This holistic care involves not only the biological needs of the pediatric patient but also concerns their mental, social and spiritual needs. Pediatric nurses, as well as other health professionals, that deal with such cases should convey positive energy and love to the children except from just possessing knowledge. Psychotherapy and drug treatment are the two main intervening approaches in children with depression symptoms. The most important support resource during child cancer care is the family environment. Good communication between family members is the first step that will help them cope with the child’s disease.Conclusion: Given that home care is superior to all other types of care, pediatric cancer patients being treated in their home receive the best possible care in aspects of meeting their biological, psychological, social and spiritual needs.
Setting the stage for strengthened annual monitoring of Family Planning program performance at the National and Subnational level in Myanmar
Authors: Nwe Tin Khaing , Williamson Jessica , Sonneveldt Emily
Published: December 2019

Background: Although Myanmar has made good progress in family planning by increased contraceptive prevalence rate (CPR) from 41% in 2007 to 52.2% in 2016, it remains lower than the target of 60% by 2020. There are also huge disparities sub-nationally, ranging from 25% to 60%. While there is a strong need to monitor the progress of family planning program regularly at the national and sub-national level, Myanmar has limited surveys, data quality and methodological issues in its Health Management Information System (HMIS), and a scattered rollout of the Logistic Management Information System (LMIS).

Methods: To identify viable options for annual monitoring, four data sources: modelled contraceptive prevalence rate for modern methods (mCPR) estimates from Track20’s  Family Planning Estimation Tool (FPET); method-specific prevalence from the  2015-16 Myanmar Demographic and Health Survey (DHS); mCPR estimates and method prevalence from  HMIS and estimates of modern method use (EMU) based on commodity consumption data from LMIS, were used to compare for the years 2015-2017. Estimates of mCPR from HMIS were tested for accuracy based on whether they fell within the 95% confidence interval of mCPR estimates from the FPET for the corresponding years. EMU from LMIS was also tested for those years and States/Regions where available.

Results: For annual tracking of mCPR, direct estimates of HMIS were considered; they were much higher than those of the DHS survey and were not matched by FPET results, except in Chin and Kayin. To monitor the method mix, HMIS data can be used as these are similar pattern with DHS in both national and State/Regional level except Chin and Kayin. LMIS could be used in annual tracking when there are high reporting rates and valid information of consumption.

Conclusions: Track20’s FPET is the method of choice to get valid information for annual monitoring of family planning program.