bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The strength of migration and stay aspirations: understanding harmonious, conflicting and indeterminate aspirations
Authors: Rodriguez-Pena Naiara
Published: September 2024

Studies on migration aspirations have provided fresh perspectives for two decades by focusing on the changing nature of aspirations, the aspirations-cap/abilities nexus, and by offering a counterpoint through the ‘aspirations to stay’. Building from these, this article proposes a model to explain the intensity and strength of (im)mobility aspirations, given that these can be strong and specific but also weak, mild, conditional, and even conflicting. To do so, I focus on the preferences to migrate or to stay by examining how the two dimensions of (im)mobility – the intrinsic and the instrumental – interact. I study the different emotions and thoughts attached to (im)mobility, how life and migration aspirations are intertwined, and the ways in which migration and stay aspirations can co-exist. In doing so, I differentiate between three ideal-type strengths of aspirations: harmonious, conflicting, and indeterminate aspirations. Harmonious aspirations capture strong convictions about what is more convenient: staying or migrating. Conflicting aspirations stress that both migration and stay aspirations can be concurrently present and equally strong. Indeterminate aspirations represent uncertainty or indifference about where to be. With this focus, the paper provides a simple approach to orient research beyond ideal-type categories by incorporating complex, often contradictory emotions. The paper draws on 37 qualitative interviews in two former mining regions in North-West Spain to advance theorization on migration aspirations and decision-making and to question if the division between migration and stay aspirations is clear-cut.
Evaluating qualitative data analysis workshops from the perspective of public contributors
Authors: Moult Alice , McGrath Carmel , Lippiett Kate , Coope Caroline , Turner Andrew , Chillcott Simon , Parton Linda , Holloway Pam , Dace Sally , Gibson Andy , Jinks Clare , Paskins Zoe , Portillo Mari Carmen , Mann Cindy , Dziedzic Krysia
Published: September 2024

Background

The aim of this project is to evaluate public contributors’ experiences of their involvement in qualitative data analysis workshops during an on-going research project titled ‘Personalised Primary care for Patients with Multiple long-term conditions’.

Methods

Four qualitative data analysis workshops were designed and conducted between August and December 2023. We used the Cube evaluation framework (henceforth referred to as the Cube) to evaluate the workshops. The Cube suggests four domains for successful PPI (voice, agenda, change, contribute).Within Workshops One, Two and Three public contributors had to login to an account to access the Cube; this was modified in Workshop Four following feedback from public contributors.

Findings

Across the four workshops the Cube was completed 11 times. Across all four workshops, public contributors thought that their voice was heard, that there were diverse ways to contribute and that they led the agenda. Public contributors thought that researchers responded to their questions and issues, when necessary.

Conclusion

This evaluation has shown that public contributors can gain new skills and lead qualitative data analysis discussions.
In vitro evaluation of the clinical utility of Apitolisib/Vorinostat combination in Apitolisib-resistant H1975 lung adenocarcinoma cells
Authors: Hmmier Abduladim , Dowling Paul
Published: September 2024

Background

The PI3K signalling pathway regulates the metabolic activity of cells. Disruption by PI3K inhibitors causes an aerobic/anaerobic imbalance that decreases energy production and cell growth. Cancer cells adapt to PI3K inhibitors in order to reduce their effectiveness. Resistance to Apitolisib could be due to intrinsic factors or acquired adaptation. Oncologists often ask whether to discontinue Apitolisib, increase its dose, or use a drug combination.

Methods

We observed the proliferation of resistant cells in (H1975R+) and out (H1975R−) of Apitolisib treatment, cell cycle pattern, energy phenotyping/reprogramming, and the effects of combining Apitolisib with Vorinostat on the acquired proliferation of H1975R− cells.

Results

The Proliferation of H1975R− cells increased, while that of H1975R+ cells remained suppressed. Both conditions showed a 5 × decrease in the number of cells at the Go/G1 phase and doubled at S and G2/M phases (p < 0.0001). Both H1975R− and H1975R+ cells exhibited decreased ECAR, with a stronger effect observed in H1975R+ cells (p < 0.0001). Oxygen consumption (OCR) increased significantly in H1975R− compared with that in H1975P (p = 0.02). The resistant cells became energetically active using mitochondrial respiration in drug-free medium; H1975R+ was hypo-energetic and consumed more free fatty acids (p = 0.0001). Ketone bodies in H1975R+ were increased by 40% and 2 × in BOHB and AcAc levels, respectively, compared to that in H1975P and H1975R− (p < 0.0001). H1975R− cell survival was 80% compared with 20% in H975R+ cells treated with 7 μM Vorinostat. Vorinostat effectively controlled acquired hyperproliferation of H1975R− cells.

Conclusion

If a tumour becomes unresponsive to Apitolisib, it is advisable to continue the inhibitor and consider a combination with non-tyrosine kinase inhibitors.
Machine learning based Parkinson’s disease detection and progression evaluation using gray and white matter segmentation from 3D MRI
Authors: Islam Nair Ul , Khanam Ruqaiya
Published: September 2024

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a movement-related neurological condition caused by the death of brain nerve cells that produce dopamine. T1 MR images were obtained from the Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI) database. Data was collected at baseline, and at 48 months duration. SPM12 software was used to segment gray matter (GM) and white matter (WM) from the MR images. For the classification of PD, CNN and machine learning (ML) classifiers were used to train on the segmented GM and WM. The findings demonstrated that utilizing the segmented GM and WM obtained from MR images at 48 months had a better predictive ability than the data obtainment at the baseline. CNNs did not perform as well as the conventional ML algorithms, especially for the baseline data. This result is most likely due to the smaller dataset available for training the CNNs, as CNNs normally require more data for best performance. Overall, machine learning algorithms were able to distinguish between people with Parkinson’s disease and healthy controls by analyzing GM and WM in brain scans. The classifiers trained at different stages demonstrated varying degrees of accuracy, with the predictive accuracy for the 48-month dataset surpassing that of the baseline data by a significant margin. The accuracy rate for GM was 65.78% at baseline and improved significantly to 92.59% at 48 months. Similarly, the accuracy rate for WM was 60.52% at baseline and improved to 88.89% at 48 months.
Impact of air pollution exposure on the severity of major depressive disorder: Results from the DeprAir study
Authors: Borroni E. , Buoli M. , Nosari G. , Ceresa A. , Fedrizzi L. , Antonangeli L. M. , Monti P. , Bollati V. , Pesatori A. C. , Carugno M.
Published: September 2024

Background

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is one of the most prevalent medical conditions worldwide. Different factors were found to play a role in its etiology, including environmental ones (e.g., air pollution). The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between air pollution exposure and MDD severity.

Methods

Four hundred sixteen MDD subjects were recruited. Severity of MDD and functioning were evaluated through five rating scales: Montgomery–Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS), Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD), Clinical Global Impression (CGI), Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF), and Sheehan Disability Scale (SDS). Daily mean estimates of particulate matter with diameter ≤10 (PM10) and 2.5 μm (PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and apparent temperature (AT) were estimated based on subjects’ residential addresses. Daily estimates of the 2 weeks preceding recruitment were averaged to obtain cumulative exposure. Multivariate linear and ordinal regression models were applied to assess the associations between air pollutants and MDD severity, overall and stratifying by hypersusceptibility and AT.

Results

Two-thirds of subjects were women and one-third had a family history of depression. Most women had depression with symptoms of anxiety, while men had predominantly melancholic depression. NO2 exposure was associated with worsening of MDD severity (HAMD: β = 1.94, 95% confidence interval [CI], [0.41–3.47]; GAF: β = −1.93, 95% CI [−3.89 to 0.02]), especially when temperatures were low or among hypersusceptible subjects. PM exposure showed an association with MDD severity only in these subgroups.

Conclusions

Exposure to air pollution worsens MDD severity, with hypersusceptibility and lower temperatures being exacerbating factors.
Research evidence on the management of the cognitive impairment component of the post-COVID condition: a qualitative systematic review
Authors: Melillo Antonio , Perrottelli Andrea , Caporusso Edoardo , Coltorti Andrea , Giordano Giulia Maria , Giuliani Luigi , Pezzella Pasquale , Bucci Paola , Mucci Armida , Galderisi Silvana , Maj Mario
Published: September 2024

Background

Cognitive impairment (CI) is one of the most prevalent and burdensome consequences of COVID-19 infection, which can persist up to months or even years after remission of the infection. Current guidelines on post-COVID CI are based on available knowledge on treatments used for improving CI in other conditions. The current review aims to provide an updated overview of the existing evidence on the efficacy of treatments for post-COVID CI.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted for studies published up to December 2023 using three databases (PubMed–Scopus–ProQuest). Controlled and noncontrolled trials, cohort studies, case series, and reports testing interventions on subjects with CI following COVID-19 infection were included.

Results

After screening 7790 articles, 29 studies were included. Multidisciplinary approaches, particularly those combining cognitive remediation interventions, physical exercise, and dietary and sleep support, may improve CI and address the different needs of individuals with post-COVID-19 condition. Cognitive remediation interventions can provide a safe, cost-effective option and may be tailored to deficits in specific cognitive domains. Noninvasive brain stimulation techniques and hyperbaric oxygen therapy showed mixed and preliminary results. Evidence for other interventions, including pharmacological ones, remains sparse. Challenges in interpreting existing evidence include heterogeneity in study designs, assessment tools, and recruitment criteria; lack of long-term follow-up; and under-characterization of samples in relation to confounding factors.

Conclusions

Further research, grounded on shared definitions of the post-COVID condition and on the accurate assessment of COVID-related CI, in well-defined study samples and with longer follow-ups, is crucial to address this significant unmet need.
Patient Enrollment to Industry-Sponsored Versus Federally-Sponsored Cancer Clinical Trials
Authors: Unger Joseph M. , Xiao Hong , Vaidya Riha , LeBlanc Michael
Published: September 2024

PURPOSE

The conduct of cancer clinical research in the United States is supported by both private and public sponsors. Industry aims to obtain new drug approvals. Federally-sponsored trials examine a broad set of research questions that are not typically addressed by industry; these trials, which are also more commonly conducted in diverse populations, were recently shown to have contributed to gains of 14 million life-years for patients with cancer. Despite the different mandates, the proportion of patients who might participate in industry-sponsored versus federally-sponsored cancer studies is unknown.

METHODS

We evaluated trial enrollment patterns from 2008 to 2022 using ClinicalTrials.gov data. The ratio of enrollments attributable to industry versus federal sponsors was estimated. A large set of estimates on the basis of different combinations of study characteristics were generated. Point estimates were determined as the mean of combinations and confidence limits by the IQR. Five-year intervals were examined to smooth annual variation.

RESULTS

In total, N = 26,080 studies were examined. The estimated enrollment ratio from 2018 to 2022 for all industry-sponsored versus federally-sponsored trials was 8.1 (IQR, 6.2-9.9). For adult trials, the ratio increased from 4.8 (IQR, 4.4-5.3) during 2008-2012 to 9.6 (IQR, 7.4-11.8) during 2018-2022; for trials in children, the ratio increased from 0.7 (IQR, 0.6-0.7) to 2.3 (IQR, 1.8-2.7). Despite increasing cancer incidence, enrollment counts for federally-sponsored trials were flat over the study period.

CONCLUSION

In the United States, there is a growing reliance on industry to conduct cancer clinical research. Underinvestment in federally-sponsored research comes at a cost for both patients and researchers, with lost opportunities for scientific, clinical, and population advances.
Brain Stiffness Correlates With Pathological Tissue in Patients With Drug-Resistant Epilepsy Due to Rasmussen Encephalitis and Focal Cortical Dysplasia
Authors: Brunette-Clément Tristan , Chang Julia W. , Owens Geoffrey C. , Hadjinicolaou Aristides , Weil Alexander G. , Fallah Aria
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Complete resection of epileptogenic zone is the single most important determinant of favorable seizure outcomes in resective surgery. However, identifying and resecting this zone is challenging in patients harboring diffuse; MRI-occult malformations of cortical development, such as focal cortical dysplasia; or acquired pathology, such as Rasmussen encephalitis. Intraoperative adjuncts that can aid in identifying the lesion and/or epileptogenic zone can optimize the extent of resection and seizure outcome. We sought to study a novel intraoperative tool, brain tonometer, to measure brain stiffness and correlate with histopathological and radiological findings.

METHODS:

Brain stiffness was measured at various presumed normal and abnormal areas of the cortex during surgery in 2 patients with drug-resistant epilepsy. These results were correlated with preoperative and intraoperative neuroimaging and histopathology.

RESULTS:

We found brain stiffness correlated well with the degree of inflammation and cortical disorganization.

CONCLUSION:

Brain tonometry may help to intraoperatively identify inflammatory brain tissue along with structural and histopathological abnormalities. In select cases, this could potentially allow more tailored resections of the underlying lesion, to ensure complete removal of the epileptogenic lesion and improve the probability of achieving seizure freedom, while sparing normal brain leading to better functional outcomes.
The Price of Power: Costs of Political Corruption in Indian Electricity
Authors: Mahadevan Meera
Published: September 2024

Politicians may target public goods to benefit their constituents, at the expense of others. I study corruption in the context of Indian electricity and estimate the welfare consequences. Using new administrative billing data and close-election regression discontinuities, I show that billed electricity consumption is lower for constituencies of the winning party by almost 40 percent, while actual consumption, measured by nighttime lights, is higher. I document the covert way in which politicians subsidize constituents by manipulating bills. These actions have substantial welfare implications, with an efficiency loss of US$0.9 billion, leading to unreliable electricity supply and significant negative consequences for development. (JEL D72, D73, L94, L98, O13, O17)
Gestão do Cuidado em Saúde na Atenção Primária
Authors: Rodrigues Coelho Ana Célia , Almeida Silva Denise , Bomfim Filho Carlos Rogério , Hermelinda Maia Macena Raimunda , De Vasconcelos Thiago Brasileiro
Published: September 2024

Objetivo: Analisar no âmbito da Atenção Primária à Saúde (APS), as principais estratégias de gestão e políticas de saúde que proporcionem o efetivo cuidado em saúde para a população da Área Descentralizada de Saúde de Crateús/CE. Métodos: Este estudo contou com o arranjo metodológico de revisão bibliográfica, a busca documental e a pesquisa de campo sobre os 11 municípios que compõem a Área Descentralizada de Saúde de Crateús, apresentando os resultados e as discussões em dois eixos: Aplicabilidade de Estratégias, Programas e Políticas Públicas de Saúde no Âmbito Regional, e Percepção dos Gestores para Avaliação e Efetivação das Políticas Públicas. Resultados: Não foram encontrados estudos originais que respondam à temática da pesquisa; no entanto, podem-se observar similaridades nos programas e nas políticas disponibilizadas nos municípios e importante reconhecimento dos gestores em saúde sobre a valorização do território e dos atributos da APS. Conclusão: Apesar da pouca adesão dos participantes e da necessidade de aprimorar o uso dos instrumentos de gestão, este trabalho se mostrou fundamental para o reconhecimento dos serviços de saúde disponíveis na APS e o alinhamento de iniciativas na governança regional.
Οι μορφές του φορολογικού ανταγωνισμού στην ενωσιακή έννομη τάξη υπό το πρίσμα των οικονομικών ελευθεριών
Authors: Ράδοβιτς Παναγιώτα
Published: September 2024

Η παρούσα μελέτη ερευνά το ζήτημα του φορολογικού ανταγωνισμού στην άμεση φορολογία και ειδικότερα τις μορφές αυτού στην ενωσιακή έννομη τάξη, υπό το πρίσμα των οικονομικών ελευθεριών. Πρόκειται για ένα φαινόμενο που έχει προκαλέσει έντονα το παγκόσμιο ενδιαφέρον, καθώς αποτελεί μια sui generis σχέση ανταγωνιστικότητας μεταξύ των διοικούντων σε διαφορετικές γεωγραφικές περιοχές, η οποία εντάσσεται στον τομέα της φορολογικής πολιτικής στην οποία κυρίαρχα εξακολουθούν έως σήμερα να είναι τα κράτη. Η προοδευτική κατάργηση των εμποδίων αλληλοδιείσδυσης των εθνικών αγορών σε συνδυασμό με τον ολοένα αναπτυσσόμενο ρόλο των πολυεθνικών εταιρειών και τη φορολογική κυριαρχία οδήγησε σε σημαντικό βαθμό στην εξάπλωση του εν λόγω φαινομένου. Το εν λόγω ζήτημα έχει προκαλέσει ποικίλες αντιδράσεις, έχοντας από το ένα στρατόπεδο θερμούς υποστηρικτές και από το άλλο σκληρούς επικριτές. Λόγω της ιδιαιτερότητάς του το παρόν πόνημα εξετάζεται σε ένα διμερές καρτεσιανό πλάνο, μέσα από το οποίο μελετώνται και αναλύονται σε βάθος οι δύο του μορφές: ο θεμιτός και ο αθέμιτος ή ζημιογόνος φορολογικός ανταγωνισμός. Εξετάζοντας τις δύο αυτές μορφές και αντιλαμβανόμενοι τα όρια και το πεδίο της καθεμίας, στόχος της παρούσας είναι να καταλήξει στο τι τελικά είναι ο φορολογικός ανταγωνισμός- θεμιτός ή αθέμιτος- και ποιος είναι ρόλος του σε επίπεδο Ένωσης. Λαμβάνοντας υπόψη τις συνεχείς εξελίξεις του δικαίου τόσο σεδιεθνές όσο και σε ενωσιακό επίπεδο σε αυτό το άκρως επίκαιρο ζήτημα, σε μια εποχή όπου το όραμα για την ευρωπαϊκή ενοποίηση τίθεται πολλές φορές υπό αμφισβήτηση, η παρούσα έρευνα φιλοδοξεί να συμβάλει στην περαιτέρω προώθηση του επιστημονικού διαλόγου στο γνωστικό πεδίο του ενωσιακού δικαίου.
Η παγκόσμια αλυσίδα της αξίας στη Digital
Authors: Γεωργιτσόπουλος Κυριάκος
Published: September 2024

Ο κύριος στόχος της παρούσας διδακτορικής διατριβής είναι να ερευνηθεί η επίδραση της αναδιάρθρωσης στην εργασιακή διαδικασία στο τοπικό κέντρο Ε&Α, στους εργαζόμενους με υψηλού επιπέδου δεξιότητες, τους μηχανικούς λογισμικού. Μεθοδολογικά η προσέγγιση των υποκειμένων γίνεται είτε συγκρίνοντας ομάδες μηχανικών σε διαφορετικές επιχειρήσεις, είτε εμβαθύνοντας κατά μήκος μιας πολυεθνικής επιχείρησης. Η παρούσα έρευνα επιλέγει τη δεύτερη κατεύθυνση γιατί θεωρεί ότι υπάρχουν όρια στη μελέτη μεμονωμένων επιχειρήσεων ενσωματωμένων σε εθνικά θεσμικά πλαίσια ως προς τα τιθέμενα ερευνητικά ερωτήματα. Η ανάλυση των εργασιακών σχέσεων σε μια παγκοσμιοποιημένη εποχή όπου η παραγωγή και οι υπηρεσίες συντονίζονται όλο και περισσότερο μεταξύ χωρών και επιχειρήσεων λαμβάνει υπόψη της και τη θεωρία της παγκόσμιας αλυσίδας της αξίας. Η εργασιακή διαδικασία, δηλαδή, στο κέντρο Ε&Α στην Ελλάδα δεν αναλύεται μόνο με βάση τους εθνικούς παράγοντες (όπως η εθνική νομοθεσία, το συνδικαλιστικό κίνημα στην Ελλάδα) αλλά λαμβάνεται υπόψη η σχέση του τοπικού κέντρου Ε&Α με το παγκόσμιο δίκτυο που έχει αναπτύξει η συγκεκριμένη πολυεθνική επιχείρηση. Η χρηματιστικοποίηση, η παγκόσμια αλυσίδα της αξίας και ο παγκόσμιος τεχνικός καταμερισμός της εργασίας δημιουργούν το πρόσφορο έδαφος για ευρείες αναδιαρθρώσεις που με τη σειρά τους οδηγούν σε συνεχείς μετασχηματισμούς στην εργασία. Μέσα από την εξαγορά της Siemens Networks και της Alcatel- Lucent έχει φανεί ότι οι εταιρείες πριν από την εξαγορά μείωναν το εργατικό δυναμικό τους ώστε η «νέα» εταιρεία να φορτωθεί με τα ελάχιστα γενικά έξοδα. Επιπλέον, διαπιστώθηκε ότι η Digital συνεχίζει να μειώνει το εργατικό δυναμικό μετά από κάθε εξαγορά μέσω αυστηρών εσωτερικών προγραμμάτων αναδιάρθρωσης. Έτσι, η εταιρεία από τη μία κερδίζει σε νέα προϊόντα, ταλαντούχους υπαλλήλους και υψηλότερα μερίδια αγοράς. Από την άλλη πλευρά, ελαχιστοποιεί τα περισσότερα από τα γενικά έξοδα με περικοπές θέσεων εργασίας παγκοσμίως και στοχεύει να επιστρέψει σε επίπεδο απασχόλησης πριν συμβεί η απόκτηση.Το παράδειγμα της εξαγοράς της Alcatel-Lucent το 2016 είναι χαρακτηριστικό. Η τρίτη -σε μερίδιο αγοράς- Digital απέκτησε την τέταρτη Alcatel- Lucent «μεταλλάσοντας» την παγκόσμια αλυσίδα της αξίας. Η διαδικασία ολοκλήρωσης ήταν τεράστια, διάρκειας τουλάχιστον τεσσάρων ετών, με τη διοίκηση να προσανατολίζεται στην περικοπή δαπανών και σε συνεχείς πολυετείς εσωτερικές αναδιοργανώσεις. Μέσω της συνεχιζόμενης αναδιάρθρωσης της εταιρείας, οι εργαζόμενοι βίωσαν πολλαπλά φαινόμενα ως προς την απώλεια της εργασίας τους, την αυξανόμενη εντατικοποίηση, τη διαχείριση των γνώσεων, αλλά και εν γένει ως προς τις τροχιές σταδιοδρομίας τους και τις επαγγελματικές τους ταυτότητες. Εν τέλει, οι εργαζόμενοι αντιλαμβάνονται την αναδιάρθρωση ως μια ατέρμονη διαδικασία η οποία δύναται να αποτελέσει ένα ισχυρό γεγονός που θα σημαδεύσει την αφήγηση της βιογραφίας τους.
Μελέτη της επίδρασης της μεταμόσχευσης αιμοποιητικών κυττάρων στο αγγειακό ενδοθήλιο
Authors: Βυθούλκας Διονύσιος
Published: September 2024

Εισαγωγή: Η αλλογενής μεταμόσχευση αρχέγονων πολυδύναμων αιμοποιητικών κυττάρων (allo-HSCT) παραμένει η μόνη θεραπευτική επιλογή για μια ποικιλία κακοήθων και μη κακοήθων αιματολογικών ασθενειών. Ωστόσο, κατά τη διάρκεια της allo-HSCT, τα ενδοθηλιακά κύτταρα (ECs) των αγγείων του οργανισμού αντιμετωπίζουν πολλαπλές προκλήσεις, με συνέπεια την εμφάνιση συνδρόμων ενδοθηλιακής δυσλειτουργίας. Η έγκαιρη διάγνωση των συνδρόμων ενδοθηλιακής δυσλειτουργίας είναι υψίστης σημασίας για την ανάπτυξη αποτελεσματικών προφυλακτικών και θεραπευτικών στρατηγικών. Σκοπός: Διερεύνηση της συσχέτισης των επιπέδων αγγειοποιητίνης-2 (Ang2) ορού και της παρουσίας αντισωμάτων έναντι της αγγειοτενσίνης ΙΙ τύπου 1 (AT1R) και του υποδοχέα ενδοθηλίνης Α (ETAR) με την έκβαση ασθενών με TΑ-MA ή/και νόσο μοσχεύματος έναντι ξενιστή (GVHD) μετά από allo-HSCT. Μεθοδολογία: Στην μελέτη συμμετείχαν συνολικά 52 ασθενείς που υποβλήθηκαν σε allo-HSCT από το 2016 έως το 2019 σε δύο διαφορετικά Κέντρα Μεταμόσχευσης Μυελού των Οστών στην Ελλάδα, και οι οποίοι διαγνώστηκαν με GVHD ή/και TA-TMA.Αποτελέσματα: Τα αυξημένα επίπεδα Ang2 ορού κατά τη στιγμή της διάγνωσης TΑ-ΤMA σχετίζονται σημαντικά με αυξημένη θνησιμότητα μη-σχετιζόμενη με την υποτροπή της νόσου και μειωμένη συνολική επιβίωση. Από όσο γνωρίζουμε, αυτή είναι η πρώτη μελέτη που αποδεικνύει μια συσχέτιση μεταξύ των αυξημένων επιπέδων Ang2 και της πρόγνωσης σε ασθενείς με TΑ-ΤMA. Αντισώματα έναντι των AT1R (AT1R-Abs) και ETAR (ETAR-Abs) ανιχνεύθηκαν στο 27% και 23% των ασθενών, αντίστοιχα, αλλά δεν υπήρξε συσχέτιση μεταξύ της παρουσίας αυτό-αντισωμάτων και της έκβασης των ασθενών με TΑ-ΤMA. Συμπεράσματα: Αυτή είναι η πρώτη μελέτη που καταδεικνύει συσχέτιση μεταξύ αυξημένων επιπέδων Ang2 και κακών εκβάσεων (βραχύτερη OS και υψηλότερη NRM) σε ασθενείς με TMA. Το πιο ενδιαφέρον είναι ότι τα αυξημένα επίπεδα AT1R-Abs βρέθηκαν να συσχετίζονται θετικά με την εμφάνιση ινωτικής χρόνιας GvHD μετά από αλλο-HSCT, γεγονός που υποδηλώνει ότι ο έλεγχος για αυτά τα αντισώματα μπορεί να έχει κλινική χρησιμότητα και ειδικά στην εποχή των πολλαπλών παραγόντων αποκλεισμού των υποδοχέων αγγειοτενσίνης και ενδοθηλίνης Α. Ωστόσο, απαιτούνται μεγαλύτερες, προοπτικές μελέτες για την επικύρωση αυτών των αποτελεσμάτων πριν από την κλινική μετάφρασή τους.
Μελέτη των λειτουργικών γαστρεντερικών διαταραχών σε παιδιά με νευροαναπτυξιακές διαταραχές
Authors: Πετρόπουλος Ανδρέας
Published: September 2024

Οι λειτουργικές γαστρεντερικές διαταραχές (LGED) παρουσιάζουν υψηλότερο επιπολασμό σε άτομα με νευροαναπτυξιακές διαταραχές (ΝΑΔ). Το σύστημα στρες και ο άξονας εντέρου-εγκεφάλου (ΜΕΕ) μπορούν να μεσολαβήσουν σε αυτές τις σχέσεις. Στόχος μας ήταν να αξιολογήσουμε τον επιπολασμό και το προφίλ των ΛΓΕΔ σε ένα κλινικό δείγμα παιδιών με Διαταραχή Αυτιστικού Φάσματος (ΔΦΑ) και Διαταραχή Ελλειμματικής Προσοχής / Υπερκινητικότητας (ΔΕΠΥ) σε σύγκριση με τυπικά αναπτυσσόμενα παιδιά (ΤΑ), καθώς και να διερευνήσουμε πιθανές σχέσεις μεταξύ βιοδεικτών που σχετίζονται με το άγχος και προβλημάτων εσωτερίκευσης / εξωτερίκευσης σε παιδιά με ΝΑΔ.
Improvement of serum B12, certain biochemical variables and rumen function indicators after live yeast feeding with or without cobalt in dairy cattle with signs of impaired digestion
Authors: Katsoulos PD , Dedousi A , Kalaitzakis E , Katsogiannou EG , Athanasiou LV
Published: September 2024

The objective of this study was to evaluate under field conditions the effect of live yeast feeding with or without cobalt on rumination time, manure score and serum concentrations of vitamin B12, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), total protein (TP), albumin and fructosamine in dairy cattle with impaired rumen function. The study was conducted in a commercial dairy herd in a commercial dairy herd of 94 milking cows and lasted for for 75 days. The first 15 days (Day -15 to Day -1) the animals were fed the basal total mixed ration without supplementation of live yeast or Co and served as control period. The evaluation period lasted for sixty days (Day 0 to Day 60). During days 0 (D0) to 30 (D30), the cows were fed the basal ration supplemented with a commercial live yeast product (4gr/cow/day), and during days 31 to 60 (D60) were fed the same ration supplemented with live yeast and cobalt (cobalt carbonate; 6mg/cow/day). Rumination time was evaluated daily using a commercial monitoring system. Prior to the onset (D0) and at the end of the first (D30) and second month (D60) of the study manure was scored and blood samples were obtained. Rumination time was higher and manure scores were improved on D60 than D0. Serum B12 concentration was higher on D30 and even higher on D60 compared to D0. BUN was unaffected on D30 but significantly lower on D60 than D0 and D30. Serum albumin was lower on D30 and D60 compared to D0 whereas serum globulins concentration was significantly different between all sampling days and the highest value was recorded on Day 30. Serum fructosamine was significantly higher at the end of the study than D0. Combined in-feed inclusion of live yeast and cobalt improves digestion, serum B12 levels, and energy status of dairy cows with impaired rumen function and provide evidence for possible acute phase reaction by live yeast feeding
Haemonchus contortus infection of goats and the use of anthelmintic natural alternative : An updated review
Authors: Soliman SM , Salem HM , El-Saadony M , Ahmed AE , Saad A , El-Saadony MT
Published: September 2024

Haemonchus contortus is a gastrointestinal nematode common in small ruminants and is a significant cause of economic loss in livestock enterprises. Progressive anthelmintic resistance of Haemonchus contortus is the most limiting factor in the effective control of this parasite. The utilization of botanical supplements with suspected anthelmintic activity for treating Haemonchus contortus is gaining popularity. This review aims to light on the prevalence of Haemonchus contortus in goats and possible control strategies to overcome such problems by using Allium sativum, commonly known as garlic, which has multiple health benefits.
Concentrations of plasma estradiol, progesterone, melatonin, serotonin and nitric oxide in Tuj ewes after estrus syncronization in and out of breeding season
Authors: Okulmus C , Atakisi E
Published: September 2024

This study aimed to determine and compare the concentrations of progesterone, estradiol, melatonin, serotonin and nitric oxide in the blood plasma following induced estrus in (autumn) and outside (spring) the natural breeding season in ewes. In addition, seasonal changes in serotonin levels following induced estrus in ewes were examined for the first time. A total of 20 Tuj ewes were used in the study. The ewes were synchronized in the breeding season (n=10) and non-breeding season (n=10) by using an intravaginal progestin-containing sponge (60 mg medroxy-progesterone acetate) for 12 days. Then, the sponge was withdrawn, and 2.5 mL of prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2α) was injected intramuscularly with 500 IU pregnant mare serum gonadotrophin (PMSG). The first blood samples were collected immediately after removal of the intravaginal sponge (at 0 hour) and the rest was collected at 4-hour intervals between 24 and 68 hours.
Throughout both seasons, all animals displayed estrus. However, estrus appeared sooner and was more intense in the breeding season than in the non-breeding season. Plasma concentrations of progesterone (respectively; 0.65±0.36 vs. 0.47±0.20 ng/mL, P < 0.05), estradiol (respectively; 35.42±26.66 vs. 28.36±19.86 ng/L, P < 0.05), nitric oxide (respectively 15.01±2.32 vs. 14.41±2.74 µmol/L, P < 0.05) and melatonin (respectively; 118.76 ±35.5 vs. 93.03±44.34 ng/L, P < 0.05) were higher in the breeding season and a positive correlation was recorded between estradiol and changes in progesterone (r=0.685; P < 0.05) and nitric oxide (r=0.535; P < 0.05). However, the plasma serotonin concentrations (respectively; 66.16 ±21.93 vs. 50.79±29.18 ng/mL, P < 0.05) were higher in the non-breeding season and showed a positive correlation with melatonin (r=0.671; P < 0.05). In addition, significant differences were noted between day and night concentration changes in melatonin and serotonin hormones in both seasons (P < 0.05). In conclusion, the results show seasonal differences in the secretion of ovarian steroid hormones and nitric oxide following induced estrus, which suggests a different reproduction capacity in the two seasons. Seasonal differences in the profile of nitric oxide release during estrus are likely related to estradiol secretion. The study shows that changes in melatonin and serotonin concentrations and circadian differences in their release in and out the breeding season are not affected by estrus synchronization.
Comparison of growth, carcass and meat quality characteristics of triploid and diploid Black Sea trout (Salmo trutta labrax) under laboratory conditions
Authors: Delihasan Sonay F , Başçınar N , Akhan S
Published: September 2024

This study compared the growth performance of triploid and diploid Black Sea trout (Salmo trutta labrax) during their fry (initial weight 0.21 – 0.21 g), fingerling (1.97 – 2.08 g) and juvenile (52.15 – 57.81 g) stages. The carcass ratio, gonadosomatic index (GSI), hepatosomatic index (HIS), proximate and fatty acid composition for the juvenile fish were also investigated. The results evinced no metabolic advantage resulting from triploidy before sexual maturation of Black Sea trout as the triploid growth was equal to diploid siblings. The juvenile triploid Black Sea trout grew faster than diploid having significantly higher weight gain, length increment, thermal growth coefficient, specific growth rate, and lower feed conversion ratio. The GSI values tended to increase over time in diploid and their significantly lower values were observed in triploid in the last three months of the trial. The HSI of triploids were significantly higher than diploid siblings. Triploid had significantly higher fat contents, and possessed higher levels of saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids than diploid. Diploid had higher polyunsaturated fatty acids than triploid siblings. These findings indicate the potential for superior triploid growth with better carcass ratio suggesting a great benefit of induced triploidy in Black Sea trout culture.
A Case of Canine Renal Cell Carcinoma: an Immunohistochemical Approach
Authors: Usta M , Ayaz A , İlhan F , Karaman M , Özen H
Published: September 2024

Canine Renal Cell Carcinoma (Canine RCC) is a primary renal tumor in dogs. No definitive immunohistochemical marker for this tumor is yet defined in veterinary medicine. In this case presentation, a Canine RCC detected in an 8-year-old intact male Golden Retriever was described and suitability of RCC-PN15 mouse monoclonal antibody as a diagnostic marker in this tumor was investigated. The primary tumor mass was in the right kidney and there were metastases in liver, spleen, lung, and the left kidney. Solid, tubular, and papillary subtypes of Canine RCC were noted in the primary tumor mass. In immunohistochemical staining for RCC-PN15, weak to strong immunoreactivities were observed in the primary and metastatic nodules. In this case report, RCC-PN15 was shown to be successfully used in diagnosis of Canine RCC.
Observations on Helminth Parasites in Endemic and Native Fish from Susurluk Basin, Türkiye Using a Genetic- Molecular Approach: With New Host and Geographical Records
Authors: Aydogdu N , Emre N , Aco-Alburqueque R , Mattıuccı S , Aydogdu A
Published: September 2024

Bu çalışmada Chondrostoma angorense (n=13), Oxynoemacheilus simavicus (n= 9) ve Oxynoemacheilus angorae (n= 12) olmak üzere üç endemik balık türünden ve bir yerli balık türü olan Silurus glanis (n = n)'den toplam 50 birey kullanıldı. =16), Türkiye'nin kuzeybatı Anadolu bölgesindeki Nilüfer deresi ve Simav deresinden Şubat 2021 ile Aralık -2021 arasında helmint parazitleri açısından incelenmiştir.
Paradiplozoon homoion ( C. angorense'de ) ve Ancylodiscoides vistulensis ( S. glanis'te ), bir digenean: Clinostomum complanatum metacercariae ( C. angorense ), 2 nematod: Contracaecum rudolphii B ( C.angorense , O. simavicus ve O. angorae'de ) ve Eustrongylides excicus larvaları ( S. glanis'te ). A. vistulensiskalan parazit türlerine göre en yüksek sayı olarak bulunmuştur.
Bu çalışma, C. angorense'de P. homoion, C. complanatum metacercariae ve C. rudolphii B'nin ve O. simavicus ve O. angorae'de C. rudolphii B'nin oluşumunu ilk kez bildirdi. Bu, beş helmint paraziti için yeni konakçı kayıtlarını ve coğrafi dağılımı tasvir etti.
Ultrasonographic study on pastern soft tissue injuries in tent pegging horses
Authors: Zohier A , Baraka T , Abdelgalil A , Aboelmaaty A , Yehia SG
Published: September 2024

Background: Pastern ultrasonography remains a useful and affordable choice, whether it is used in the field or when advanced imaging is not an option due to availability or cost considerations. Tent pegging is a high-speed sport practiced since the 4th century BC. There is a paucity of literature available about injuries associated with this type of sport. Aim of work: To study the incidence of soft tissue injuries at the pastern region in tent-pegging horses. Materials and methods: Ultrasonographic study was carried out on the palmar pastern region of 46 forelimbs (23 horses) to detect the different soft tissue injuries that occurred in association with this kind of sport. Results: Bilateral SDF chronic tendonitis was the highest percentage of the scanned affections, representing (52.2%). The most affected level in the SDFT was the right P1A (60.9%) and also showed a significant positive correlation with age. Conclusion: Long-term exposure to tent-pegging sports and poor rehabilitation programs lead to chronic tendonitis and adhesions, which subsequently lead to poor performance.
Bacterial and Parasitic Co-Infection in Carassius gibelio Bloch, 1782 Caught in the Onaç Reservoir, Türkiye
Authors: Yıldırım P , Kan Ş , Güçlü SS , Özmen Ö , Özdamar A , Bahrioğlu E , Kubilay A
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the bacterial and parasitic co-infection of Prussian carp (Carassius gibelio Bloch, 1782). C. gibelio belongs to the Cyprinidae family, an alien species in the freshwater systems of Turkey. Alien species can cause the emergence of new diseases in native species that constitute the ichthyofauna. C. gibelio specimens were examined from Onaç Reservoir in Burdur, Turkey. Symptoms were skin lesions, exophthalmos, darkening in color, rupture, and hemorrhage in the radius of the caudal fin, and loss of scale of the fish. Gyrodactylus sprostonae and Trichodina sp. were also observed. Additionally, Shewanella putrefaciens and Aeromonas sobria were isolated from the fish specimens.  Erosive and ulcerative lesions were frequently seen during the histopathological investigation. Both isolates were resistant to penicillin, oxacillin, lincomycin, and ampicillin. In conclusion, the presence of various bacterial strains, a ciliate parasite, and a monogenic parasite was determined in C. gibelio. We report that the aforementioned fish pathogens created a co-infection in the region. In the future, more study is needed to a clearer awareness of the silver carp dealing with co-infection and the details of the interaction between bacterial and parasitic diseases. This will be beneficial for fish disease management.
Effect of ß-glucan from Euglena gracilis as an antioxidant on goat semen cryopreservation
Authors: Ustuner B , Soylu MK , Sengul E , Karakci D , Gokce E , Aktar A , Ak Sonat F , Cimen T , Huraydin O , Yılmaz MM , Nur Z
Published: September 2024

This study aimed to determine the influence of different doses of β-glucan on post-thaw spermatological parameters, lipid peroxidation, and total antioxidant activity of buck semen.
In the non-breeding season, semen was collected from bucks twice weekly. After then, ejaculates were pooled and divided into four equal aliquots: β-glucan concentrations of 1 mM (βG1), 2 mM (βG2), and 4 mM (βG4), and a control group without antioxidants. Each sample group was diluted for cryopreservation using a dilution method involving two steps. The experimental groups were then evaluated for several parameters including sperm motility, plasma membrane functional integrity [hypoosmotic swelling test (HOST)], damaged acrosome rate [FITC-Pisum sativum agglutinin (FITC-PSA)], DNA integrity [terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL)], mitochondrial membrane potential using JC-1, evaluation of lipid peroxidation, and determination of total antioxidant activity.
The post-thaw motility and plasma functional integrity of the control group were significantly lower than those values in the βG groups (P < 0.05). Although the numerically greatest acrosome damage was detected in the control group, it was only statistically different from βG1 and βG4 (P<0.05). While the DNA fragmentation rate of the control group was higher than βG4 group (P<0.05), it was similar to βG1 and βG2 groups (P>0.05). There was no statistical difference among all the groups regarding low mitochondrial membrane potential, MDA, and TAC rates.
In line with our results, supplementation of 1mM, 2 mM and 4 mM β-glucan to freezing extender improves the post-thaw spermatological characteristics of goat semen.
Comparative investigation of the nutritional value of cow, goat, and sheep white cheeses in brine
Authors: Paskas S , Becskei Z , Savic M
Published: September 2024

In the present work, three different types of cheese in brine have been compared based on their nutritional quality parameters. The cheeses were made from cow's milk (commercial cheese) and goat and sheep milk (traditional cheese). The physicochemical composition, fatty acid profile, amino acid profile, and related health lipid indices of the cheeses were investigated. The study revealed a significant difference (p<0.05) between the cheeses studied in brine in terms of physicochemical composition. In particular, goat and sheep brine cheeses have a higher concentration of dry matter, fat and protein. Conversely, the Ca content was significantly higher (p<0.05) in the commercial cheeses, as was the Ca/protein ratio (mg g-1 protein). The results also highlighted the health-beneficial fatty acid profile of sheep and goat brine cheeses, particularly the more favourable values of the nutritional indices: AI, TI, HPI, HH and n-6/n-3 ratio compared to commercial cow brine cheeses. The lipid composition of goat and sheep brine cheeses contained significantly lower amounts of long-chain saturated fatty acids and higher amounts of short- and medium-chain saturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Analysis of the amino acid profile showed that goat brine cheeses were rich in branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) and had the best essential/non-essential amino acid ratio compared to sheep and cow brine cheeses.  According to these results, traditional brine cheeses made from goat's and sheep's milk have a high nutritional value. To make the production of these cheeses more sustainable, they need to be promoted as valuable sources of health-promoting compounds.
Effect of black cumin (Nigella sativa) and high fat supplemented diet on lipid profile, C-reactive protein and cardiac histopathology in rabbits
Authors: Fatima S , Naureen I , Naeem M , Aman S , Ullah R
Published: September 2024

Present study determined effects of Nigella sativa on risk factors associated with cardiovascular disease. A typical marker for predicting cardiovascular risk is lipid profile. An independent predictor of future coronary heart disease has recently been found to be the inflammatory marker C-reactive protein. People who consume a high fat diet have been shown to have higher amounts of the CRP (C-reactive protein) levels and lipid profile. Current was purposefully designed to evaluate the effects of Nigella sativa and high fat diet and their co-administration in 7 months old rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) for 30 days. Effects of Nigella sativa and high fat diet were analyzed on the structure of heart, lipid profile and C-reactive protein in rabbits. For this purpose, rabbits (n=15) were kept in animal house under standard laboratory condition. 15 rabbits were divided into three groups, one control and two experimental groups. Control group was treated with standard diet. Experimental group 1 was treated with high fat diet and experimental group 2 was treated with 5% Nigella sativa and high fat diet. Body weight showed significant (P>0.05) increase in group 1 fed high fat diet and significant (P>0.05) decrease in body weight was observed in group2 (5% Nigella sativa). Cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, VLDL and C-reactive protein showed significant (P>0.05) increased in group1 (fed high fat diet) and in contrast significant decreased level of HDL was found in group1 (fed high fat diet). Group 2 (5% Nigella sativa) showed significant (P>0.05) decrease in C-reactive protein levels, cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, VLDL compared to the high fat diet group. Histomorphological study of heart showcd moderate congestion, loss of sarcoplasm and fragmentation in many cardiac muscle fibers in group 1(fed high fat diet) however group 2 (5% Nigella sativa) heart tissues showed no morphometric changes in the heart structure which indicate that 5% Nigella sativa might rescue or protect the heart structure from damage. It was concluded from present study that 5% Nigella sativa had anti-atherogenic cardioprotective properties. Using this plant with fat-rich diets simultaneously may reduce their adverse health effects.
Evaluation of using probiotics, prebiotics and symbiotic as growth promoters in broilers and their effects on some growth performance-related genes
Authors: El-kahal Hassanien A , EL-Kaiaty AM , Sobhy HM , El Moghazy GM , Gomaa AH , Abdel A’al MH , EL-Attrouny MM , Hekal SHA
Published: September 2024

This study was conducted in an attempt to evaluate the impact of dietary addition of probiotics (Enterococcus faecium, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bacillus subtilis and Saccharomyces cerevisiae) and prebiotics (beta glucan and mannan oligosaccharides) on broiler diets with respect to some growth related genes (mucin2, chicken growth hormone (cGH), and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) gene expressions. It was also our aim to evaluate the growth performance and economic efficiency of the diet. A total of 350 one-day male broiler chicks (ROSS) were randomly divided into 14 groups each group contained 25 birds were fed different doses of probiotics, prebiotics and symbiotic except the control group. The results showed that there was a significant improvement in body weight gain (BWG) of the treatments fed on probiotics, prebiotics and symbiotic compared to the control group. The best result was T8, 2007.5± 23.88 which contains Probiotics (108 cfu / ml) + 250 ppm prebiotics/ ton. The same treatment (T8) also showed a clear improvement in feed intake (FI), as the birds consumed the least amount of feed 3064± 26.53 compared to other groups with the best feed conversion rate 1.52± 0.01. The liver of birds fed T8 had higher IGF1 and cGH expression compared to other treatments 7.60±1.33 and 8.66±1.38 respectively. Enhanced expression of the muc2 was found in treatments fed on probiotics, prebiotics and symbiotic, the best result was T8 8.70±1.29. The economic evaluation showed that birds fed on symbiotic at a 250 ppm level of prebiotics was the best treatments. It could be concluded that supplementation with probiotics, prebiotics, and symbiotic had beneficial effects on total BWG, FI, FCR and IGF1, cGH and muc2 expression in broiler chickens. They also enhanced the expression of some growth-related genes, so they can be used as an alternative to antibiotics.
GDF9 gene c.260G>A mutation and sheep litter size: a meta-analysis
Authors: Sahib MR , AL-Jaryan IL , Al-Thuwaini TM
Published: September 2024

Growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) has been identified as a major gene associated with sheep litter size. The most frequent single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) associated with GDF9 is c.260G>A, altering protein sequence. Some studies found that this SNP did not affect litter size, while others found that it had an effect. This study examined the impact of this polymorphism on litter size through a meta-analysis. An analysis was conducted on six eligible published studies to examine the effects of c.260G>A polymorphism on litter size using four different genetic models: dominant (GG + GA versus AA), recessive (GG versus GA + AA), additive (GG versus AA) and co-dominant (GG + AA versus GA). The data were analyzed according to the I-squared value using fixed-effects and random-effects models. The c.260G>A polymorphism affected litter size significantly when analyzed as recessive (SMD = -0.24, 95 % CI [-0.41, -0.08]) and co-dominant (SMD = -0.36, 95 % CI [-0.64, -0.07]). In contrast, the c.260G>A polymorphism had no effect when used with dominant (SMD = 0.35, 95 % CI [-0.26, 0.96]) and additive (SMD = 0.18, 95 % CI [-0.78, 1.15]) genetic models. A statistical sensitivity analysis of pooled SMDs revealed no differences, indicating the overall results did not result from a single study. A meta-analysis shows that sheep litter size is related to genotype GA. This study supported the concept that GDF9 is a fundamental factor that influences sheep litter size.