bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of multiple sclerosis with mortality in sepsis: a population-level analysis
Authors: Oud Lavi , Garza John
Published: July 2022

Background

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is associated with increased risk of sepsis and higher sepsis-related mortality, compared to the general population. However, the evidence on the prognostic impact of MS in sepsis has been scarce. We aimed to evaluate the population-level association of MS with short-term mortality in sepsis.

Methods

We performed a retrospective population-based cohort study using a statewide data set to identify hospitalizations aged ≥ 18 years in Texas with sepsis, with and without MS during 2010–2017. Multilevel logistic models were fit to estimate the association of MS with short-term mortality among all sepsis hospitalizations, and for sensitivity analyses among hospitalizations with septic shock and those admitted to ICU.

Results

Among 283,025 sepsis hospitalizations, 1687 (0.6%) had MS. Compared to sepsis hospitalizations without MS, those with MS were younger (aged ≥ 65 years 35.0% vs 56.8%), less commonly racial/ethnic minority (36.2% vs 48.1%), and had lower mean Deyo comorbidity index (1.6 vs 2.7). The rates of septic shock and ICU admission were similar for sepsis hospitalizations with and without MS (58.7% vs 59.6% and 46.7% vs 46.0%, respectively). The unadjusted short-term mortality among sepsis hospitalizations with and without MS for the whole cohort, among those with septic shock, and among ICU admissions were 20.2% vs 31.3%, 25.6% vs 40.0%, and 24.0% vs 34.8%, respectively. On adjusted analyses, MS was associated with 17% lower odds of short-term mortality (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.828 [95% CI 0.723–0.947]). Similar findings were observed on sensitivity analyses of patients with septic shock (aOR 0.764 [95% CI 0.651–0.896]), but MS was not associated with mortality among sepsis hospitalizations admitted to ICU (aOR 0.914 [95% CI 0.759–1.101]).

Conclusions

MS was associated with lower short-term mortality among septic patients, with findings consistent among the subset with septic shock. Among septic patients admitted to ICU, MS was not associated with mortality.
Pancreas-preserving partial duodenectomy for non-ampullary duodenal neoplasms: three case reports
Authors: Ishida Shunsuke , Hirashita Teijiro , Kawano Yoko , Orimoto Hiroki , Amano Shota , Kawamura Masahiro , Fujinaga Atsuro , Kawasaki Takahide , Masuda Takashi , Endo Yuichi , Ohta Masayuki , Inomata Masafumi
Published: July 2022

Background

There are multiple surgical procedures for resecting non-ampullary duodenal neoplasms (NADNs), and the appropriate method is selected depending on the tumor location and diagnosis. We herein report 3 cases of NADNs that were resected using pancreas-preserving partial duodenectomy (PPD).

Case reports

The first patient, a 73-year-old woman with a circumferential duodenal adenoma in the supra-ampullary duodenum, underwent surgery. After laparotomy, the duodenum proximal to the tumor was confirmed using intraoperative endoscopy and dissected. The duodenum distal to the tumor was dissected under direct visualization, and the specimen was removed. The distal stump of the duodenum was closed, and duodenojejunostomy was performed as described by Billroth II. The tumor was diagnosed as an adenoma 75 mm in size. She was discharged 12 days after surgery without any complications. The second patient, a 48-year-old man, was diagnosed with a neuroendocrine neoplasm (NEN) with a diameter of 14 mm in the supra-ampullary duodenum. Laparoscopic PPD was performed. He was diagnosed with NEN G1 and discharged the 11th day after surgery. The third patient, a 71-year-old man with a 0–Is + IIa lesion in the horizontal duodenum, underwent surgery. After laparotomy, the horizontal duodenum and proximal jejunum were resected, and duodenojejunostomy was performed. The patient was diagnosed with stage I adenocarcinoma and discharged on the 15th day after surgery.

Conclusion

PPD is useful for avoiding the morbidity of pancreatoduodenectomy in the management of NADNs without invasion to the ampulla of Vater or pancreas.
Landscape scale ecology of Tetracladium spp. fungal root endophytes
Authors: Lazar Anna , Mushinski Ryan M. , Bending Gary D.
Published: July 2022

Background

The genus Tetracladium De Wild. (Ascomycota) has been traditionally regarded as a group of Ingoldian fungi or aquatic hyphomycetes—a polyphyletic group of phylogenetically diverse fungi which grow on decaying leaves and plant litter in streams. Recent sequencing evidence has shown that Tetracladium spp. may also exist as root endophytes in terrestrial environments, and furthermore may have beneficial effects on the health and growth of their host. However, the diversity of Tetracladium spp. communities in terrestrial systems and the factors which shape their distribution are largely unknown.

Results

Using a fungal community internal transcribed spacer amplicon dataset from 37 UK Brassica napus fields we found that soils contained diverse Tetracladium spp., most of which represent previously uncharacterised clades. The two most abundant operational taxonomic units (OTUs), related to previously described aquatic T. furcatum and T. maxilliforme, were enriched in roots relative to bulk and rhizosphere soil. For both taxa, relative abundance in roots, but not rhizosphere or bulk soil was correlated with B. napus yield. The relative abundance of T. furcatum and T. maxilliforme OTUs across compartments showed very similar responses with respect to agricultural management practices and soil characteristics. The factors shaping the relative abundance of OTUs homologous to T. furcatum and T. maxilliforme OTUs in roots were assessed using linear regression and structural equation modelling. Relative abundance of T. maxilliforme and T. furcatum in roots increased with pH, concentrations of phosphorus, and increased rotation frequency of oilseed rape. It decreased with increased soil water content, concentrations of extractable phosphorus, chromium, and iron.

Conclusions

The genus Tetracladium as a root colonising endophyte is a diverse and widely distributed part of the oilseed rape microbiome that positively correlates to crop yield. The main drivers of its community composition are crop management practices and soil nutrients.
Two cases of catheters inserted from the femoral vein straying into the hepatic vein, possibly owing to a Eustachian valve: a case report
Authors: Takise Yoshiaki , Maeda Takuma , Yonezawa Hiroki , Minami Kimito , Morinaga Masahiro , Ohnishi Yoshihiko
Published: July 2022

Background

In minimally invasive cardiac surgery (MICS) and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), a guidewire is inserted from the femoral vein (FV) into the right atrium. However, rarely, the guidewire or catheter strays into the hepatic vein (HV) because of the inferior vena cava (IVC)-HV angle. We report two cases in which a guidewire and venous cannula from the FV strayed into the HV, likely owing to a Eustachian valve.

Case presentation

Both patients were women who underwent transesophageal echocardiography-guided FV cannulation. In case 1, a guidewire from the FV strayed into the HV owing to a Eustachian valve. In case 2, ECMO was established postoperatively. Transthoracic echocardiography confirmed the venous cannula had strayed into the HV. Computed tomography indicated IVC-HC angles of 129° (case 1) and 102° (case 2).

Conclusion

A Eustachian valve can impede devices inserted from the FV and even allow them to stray into the HV.
Does health economics research align with the disease burden in the Middle East and North Africa region? A systematic review of economic evaluation studies on public health interventions
Authors: Nagi Mouaddh Abdulmalik , Rezq Mustafa Ali Ali , Sangroongruangsri Sermsiri , Thavorncharoensap Montarat , Dewi Pramitha Esha Nirmala
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Economic evaluation studies demonstrate the value of money in health interventions and enhance the efficiency of the healthcare system. Therefore, this study reviews published economic evaluation studies of public health interventions from 26 Middle East and North Africa (MENA) countries and examines whether they addressed the region's major health problems.

Methods

PubMed and Scopus were utilized to search for relevant articles published up to June 26, 2021. The reviewers independently selected studies, extracted data, and assessed the quality of studies using the Consolidated Health Economic Evaluation Reporting Standards (CHEERS) checklist.

Results

The search identified 61 studies. Approximately half (28 studies; 46%) were conducted in Israel and Iran. The main areas of interest for economic evaluation studies were infectious diseases (21 studies; 34%), cancers (13 studies; 21%), and genetic disorders (nine studies; 15%). Five (8%), 39 (64%), 16 (26%), and one (2%) studies were classified as excellent, high, average, and poor quality, respectively. The mean of CHEERS checklist items reported was 80.8% (SD 14%). Reporting the structure and justification of the selected model was missed in 21 studies (37%), while price and conversion rates and the analytical methods were missed in 21 studies (34%).

Conclusions

The quantity of economic evaluation studies on public health interventions in the MENA region remains low; however, the overall quality is high to excellent. There were obvious geographic gaps across countries regarding the number and quality of studies and gaps within countries concerning disease prioritization. The observed research output, however, did not reflect current and upcoming disease burden and risk factors trends in the MENA region.
Influence of knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of added sugars consumption on periodontal status in low-income women
Authors: Babaei Mahsa , Freeland-Graves Jeanne , Sachdev Prageet K. , Wright Gary J.
Published: July 2022

Background

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease caused by interactions between bacterial infection and host response. Nutrition education plays an important role in preventing oral health diseases and related problems. The present research will assess oral hygiene practices, nutrition knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors related to added sugars, within the context of periodontal disease in low-income women.

Methods

A pre-validated Dental Nutrition Attitudes, Beliefs, and Behaviors questionnaire was distributed among 220 low-income women. Periodontal disease was measured using clinical attachment loss and probing pocket depth. One-way ANOVA, linear, and multivariate logistic regression were utilized for analysis.

Results

Linear regression analysis exhibited significant positive associations of knowledge with attitude (r = 0.190, P = 0.000), and behavior (r = 0.298, P = 0.000), as well as attitude with behavior (r = 0.542, P = 0.000) of the low-income women. Women who scored higher on knowledge subscale were less likely to be in stage 2 [OR = 0.21, 95% CI: 0.008–0.582, P = 0.002] and 3 [OR = 0.32, 95% CI: 0.009–0.916, P = 0.021], as compared to the lower stage. Those who scored higher on the attitude and behavior subscales were less likely to be in stage 2 [OR = 0.191, 95% CI: 0.066-.0559, P = 0.003 vs OR = 0.501, 95% CI: 0.172–1.461, P = 0.046] and 3 [OR = 0.178, 95% CI: 0.051–0.620, P = 0.007 vs OR = 0.215, 95% CI: 0.062–0.744, P = 0.015] than in stage 1.

Conclusions

Significant limited dental nutrition attitude, belief, and behavior regarding periodontal disease were observed. Health care professionals and dentists should provide nutrition counseling about periodontal disease during health care delivery visits.
Ethnobotanical survey of herbs used in the preservation of food products in Fez, Morocco
Authors: Ez zoubi Yassine , Lairini Sanae , El Amrani Soukaina , El-Akhal Fouad , Farah Abdellah , Bouslamti Rabia , El Ouali Lalami Abdelhakim
Published: July 2022

Morocco has a rich plant biodiversity and an ancient ethnobotanical knowledge influenced by the ethnic diversity of the Moroccan population. This heritage has been preserved from generation to generation by traditional herbalists. In this study, data were collected via a survey of herbalists based on the direct interview technique. Questions addressed the herbalists’ age and education level as well as the vernacular names and parts of the plants used for the preservation of food. The species use value was used to identify the most important species recommended by herbalists. The average age of the participants was 52.55 years, and the illiteracy rate was 46%. A total of 32 plant species representing 16 families were identified as being used in the preservation of various food products. The most important family was Lamiaceae, followed by Apiaceae and Rosaceae. The most frequently used parts of the plant were the leaves (26.37%), followed by the fruit (24.7%), and the whole plant (12.7%). The highest use values were recorded for Citrus limon (0.16), Thymus vulgaris (0.14), Rosmarinus officinalis (0.12), Artemisia herba alba (0.11) and Lavandula dentata (0.1). Meat, vegetables and fish were the most commonly preserved food products. This ethnobotanical survey on the preservation of food products is the first of its kind conducted in Morocco and has implications for meeting consumer demands and understanding the potential uses of plants in the preservation of food products.
Middle-East obgyn graduate education (MOGGE) foundation practice guidelines: diagnostic approach to pregnancy of unknown location: practice guideline no. 03-O-21
Authors: Shazly Sherif A. , Radwan Ahmad A. , Abdo Mohamed S. , Moustafa Hajer Y. , Abd-Elkariem Ahmed Yassien , Ali Shimaa Salah , Ahmed Nermeen B. , Hosny Esraa M. , Abouzeid Mostafa H. , Eltaweel Nashwa A. , Hortu Ismet , Abdelbadie Amr S. , Fahmy Mohamed S. , Attyia Mohamed I. , Shawki Abdelrahman A. , Said Aliaa E. , Mohamed Yasmin I. , Hemdan Heba N. , Hemdan Menna N. , Mohamed Norhan G. , Adam Rania I.
Published: July 2022

Background

Pregnancy of unknown location (PUL) is a term used to describe failure of visualization of intrauterine or extrauterine gestational sac in a woman with a positive pregnancy test.

Body of the abstract

Ectopic pregnancy (EP) accounts for 1–2 % of all pregnancies. EP contributes to maternal mortality of a known cause by 4% in developed countries. However, case fatality rate may be 10 times higher in low-resource countries. This may be attributed to delayed diagnosis and lack of resources. PUL is a temporary term that may eventually lead to diagnosis of viable intrauterine pregnancy, pregnancy loss, or more seriously, EP.

Conclusion

This guideline appraises current evidence on assessment of PUL and early diagnosis of EP particularly in low-resource settings.
An unusual case of bronchopericardial fistula secondary to necrotizing pneumonia
Authors: Bharti Prachi , Agarwal Vivek , Kuruvilla Jerin , Singla Subhash
Published: July 2022

Background

Pneumopericardium is a rare complication in patients with bacterial necrotizing pneumonia and proven to be lethal with a high incidence of mortality due to cardiopulmonary failure.

Case presentation

This is a rare case of broncho-pericardial fistula in a 21 year old, who was a known case of T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia status post-chemotherapy, presented with relapse of acute lymphoblastic leukemia. He was evaluated for febrile neutropenia. Further investigation showed features of necrotizing pneumonia and follow-up chest X-ray during the hospital stay showed evidence of pneumopericardium. To localize the cause, computed tomography chest was performed, further confirming the etiology of bronchopericardial fistula.

Conclusions

Our case illustrates broncho-pericardial fistula as a rare complication of necrotizing pneumonia and the utility of multimodality imaging in its diagnosis and determination of tension pneumopericardium.
Multidisciplinary approach in diagnosis and treatment of COVID-19-associated mucormycosis: a description of current reports
Authors: Gogineni Hyma , So Wonhee , Mata Kenneth , Greene John N.
Published: July 2022

Background

We reviewed the epidemiology, risk factors, pathophysiology, and clinical presentations of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)-associated mucormycosis (CAM), then discussed the importance of rapid diagnosis and treatment facilitated by multidisciplinary approach.

Main body

India has reported world’s highest number of CAM cases where Rhizopus arrhizus was the most predominant etiology. CAM caused by Rhizopus microsporus was the most common from the rest of the world. Multiple risk factors for CAM were identified including diabetes mellitus, inappropriate corticosteroid use, COVID-19-related hypoxia, and lung damage.

Rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis (ROCM) accounted for almost 90% of CAM in India while 64% of global cases were ROCM. Less than 10% of CAM from India were pulmonary while the rest of the world reported 21% of pulmonary CAM.

CAM is diagnosed by confirmed SARS-CoV2 infection along with clinical, radiological, histopathological, and/or microbiological evidence of mucormycosis. In patients with risks of CAM and associated symptoms, CT or MRI are recommended. If ROCM is suspected, endoscopy and biopsy are recommended. If pulmonary CAM is suspected, tissue biopsies, nasal samples, or bronchoalveolar lavage is recommended with histopathological exams.

Early diagnosis, surgical, and pharmaceutical interventions are key to treat mucormycosis. Upon diagnosis, antifungal therapy with liposomal amphotericin B (IV) is considered first-line of therapy. Alternatively, posaconazole (PO/IV) or isavuconazole (PO/IV) can be used.

Conclusion

Treating CAM requires a multidisciplinary approach for early diagnosis and prompt initiation of interventions to maximize patient’s chance of survival.
Comparative study between single-stage multilevel surgery and staged surgery for management of snoring and/or obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: Gafar Hazem Abdel-Latif , Abdulla Alaa El-Din Ali , Ghanem Youssef Yehia , Bahgat Ahmed Yassin
Published: July 2022

Abstract

Background

When the nasal obstruction is identified in cases of snoring and/or OSA with suspected oropharyngeal and nasal obstruction, the combination of nasal and palate surgeries is suggested to be conducted in either a single-staged or multi-staged manner. This study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of combined nasal-palatopharyngeal surgery in a staged versus a single-stage multilevel procedure.

Methods

Prospective randomized comparative study included 60 patients with combined nasal and retropalatal obstruction, > 18 years old, BMI < 40, with snoring and/or mild to moderate OSA (AHI ˂ 30) and ASA < 3. Patients were randomly allocated into three groups (every 20 patients); groups 1 and 2 patients underwent a staged procedure, where group 1 had a nasal surgery as a first step for management of nasal obstruction, followed by a BRP after 3 months and vice versa for group 2 patients, while group 3 patients had a single-stage combined nasal surgery and (BRP). Preoperative and 6 months post-operative SOS, SBPS, ESS scores, and polysomnography data (AHI, ODI) were recorded. Post-operative complications, pain (VAS), and duration of hospital stay were monitored.

Results

Post-operative improvement in SOS, SBPS, EES, AHI, and ODI were similar after a staged or a single-stage multilevel procedure with no significant intergroup differences. Total operative time for single-stage multilevel surgery (80 ± 25 min) was significantly shorter than that for the staged procedure (135 ± 30 min). Post-operative complications were temporary and not severe in both surgical procedures and included wound infection (11.67%) and nasal bleeding (11.67%), which were resolved immediately by firm pressure and nasal packing and suture extrusion (5%). However, it didn't appear to alter anatomical and functional outcomes. Post-operative pain by VAS was significantly higher after a single-stage multilevel procedure (5.8 ± 1.4) compared to (2.8 ± 0.6 and 3.7 ± 0.7, respectively) in groups 1 and 2 that underwent a staged surgery.

Conclusion

Combined nasal surgery and BRP, either staged or single-stage multilevel procedure in the treatment of snoring and/or mild and moderate OSA with nasal obstruction, provide similar successful improvement in subjective and objective findings. A single-stage procedure was safer because of a significantly shorter total operative time, and repeated hospitalization and need for anesthesia were avoided.
Asymptomatic idiopathic submandibular abscess — a diagnostic conundrum
Authors: Agarwal Shreya , Gupta Nimish
Published: July 2022

Background

Facial and neck abscesses are often seen in patients. Usually, they are linked to a primary source of infection in orofacial, dental, or otolaryngeal region and are associated with the classic signs and symptoms of infection and inflammation. We came across a case of submandibular abscess whose behavior pattern defied the typical trends.

Case presentation

A completely asymptomatic boy reported with a huge swelling below the left-side lower jaw, extending onto the neck region. The history of swelling was acute with progressive nature since the last 5–6 days. His clinical examination and the laboratory investigations were quite routine without any deviation from usual. Despite exploring for all probable causes, authors could not find the definitive reason for such unusual presentation.

Conclusion

Although the patient was cured with conventional medical and surgical treatment for head and neck space infection, the pathophysiology of such asymptomatic and idiopathic abscess remained a diagnostic dilemma.
Early detection of cochlear hearing loss in rheumatoid arthritis patients: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Elnagdy Ola H. , Elfarrash Sara , Fawzy Iman M. , Elnagdy Noha H.
Published: July 2022

Background

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory autoimmune disorder that has cardinal articular and peri-articular symptoms. Extra-articular manifestations (EAMs) are also reported among RA patients. In the current study, we assessed hearing function in 50 RA patients. An extensive audiological assessment including pure tone audiometry (PTA), extended high-frequency audiometry (EHFA), tympanometry, and acoustic reflex in addition to the oto-acoustic emission (OAEs) were done.

Results

Our data demonstrates that among the 50 participants with median disease duration of 8 years, about 80% had normal hearing using PTA and EHFA. However, 46% of them had—interestingly—demonstrated absent OAEs, suggesting early stages of cochlear hearing loss.

Conclusion

We conclude that rheumatoid arthritis can cause hearing impairment that can be early diagnosed by TEOAEs.
Recent advances in proteomics and metabolomics in plants
Authors: Yan Shijuan , Bhawal Ruchika , Yin Zhibin , Thannhauser Theodore W. , Zhang Sheng
Published: July 2022

Over the past decade, systems biology and plant-omics have increasingly become the main stream in plant biology research. New developments in mass spectrometry and bioinformatics tools, and methodological schema to integrate multi-omics data have leveraged recent advances in proteomics and metabolomics. These progresses are driving a rapid evolution in the field of plant research, greatly facilitating our understanding of the mechanistic aspects of plant metabolisms and the interactions of plants with their external environment. Here, we review the recent progresses in MS-based proteomics and metabolomics tools and workflows with a special focus on their applications to plant biology research using several case studies related to mechanistic understanding of stress response, gene/protein function characterization, metabolic and signaling pathways exploration, and natural product discovery. We also present a projection concerning future perspectives in MS-based proteomics and metabolomics development including their applications to and challenges for system biology. This review is intended to provide readers with an overview of how advanced MS technology, and integrated application of proteomics and metabolomics can be used to advance plant system biology research.
Experimental evaluation of a modified direct evaporative cooling system combining luffa fiber—charcoal cooling pad and activated carbon dehumidifying pad
Authors: Ahmadu T. O. , Sanusi Y. S. , Usman F.
Published: July 2022

Evaporative cooling technology has a potential to serve as a substitute to conventional vapor compression cooling. Direct evaporative cooling however usually introduces more moisture to the cooling space. In this study, the performance of a modified direct evaporative cooling system that combines a cooling pad and a removable dehumidifying pad has been experimentally evaluated for space cooling. The cooling pad is made of luffa fiber lagged with charcoal, while the dehumidifying pad is made of activated carbon derived from tamarind seed. Results for two experimental days, which span from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm each day are reported in this work. The peak cooling load requirement of the room was evaluated as 4.53 kW. On the first experimental day, in which the dehumidifying pad was removed from the system, results indicated a minimum room temperature of 24oC was achieved, which resulted in a maximum temperature drop of 11oC from ambient temperature. However, indoor relative humidity increased to a maximum of 84%, while outdoor relative humidity was 30%. The dehumidifying pad was used on the second experimental day. Results from the second experimental day showed a minimum room temperature of 26.5oC was achieved, resulting in a maximum temperature drop of 10oC from ambient. Maximum indoor relative humidity recorded was 49%, while the outdoor relative humidity was 34%, an indication that the dehumidifying pad was able to absorb moisture from the cooled air. Maximum cooling capacity, efficiency, and COP of 3.84 kW, 84.6% and 16.1 respectively were achieved by the system without the dehumidifying pad. Corresponding values of 3.2 kW, 71.4% and 13.4 respectively were recorded when the system was operated with the dehumidifying pad.
Ambulatory Glucose Profile According to Different Phases of the Menstrual Cycle in Women Living With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Tatulashvili Sopio , Baptiste Julla Jean , Sritharan Nanthara , Rezgani Imen , Levy Vincent , Bihan Helene , Riveline Jean-Pierre , Cosson Emmanuel
Published: July 2022

Context

Some women living with type 1 diabetes complain of changes in glucose values according to the different phases of menstruation.

Objective

To evaluate this variability through continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) data in type 1 diabetes patients.

Design

Observational study.

Setting

Ambulatory data, recruitment in 2 centers in the Paris region.

Patients

Twenty-four women with type 1 diabetes having spontaneous menstrual cycles.

Intervention

Collection of CGM data for 62 spontaneous menstrual cycles, with evaluation of five 3-day phases during each cycle: (1) early follicular (menstruations), (2) mid-follicular, (3) peri-ovulatory, (4) mid-luteal, and (5) late luteal.

Main outcome measure

Time in range (TIR, prespecified).

Results

TIR decreased for each consecutive phase (61 ± 18%; 59 ± 18%; 59 ± 20%; 57 ± 18%; and 55 ± 20%, P = 0.02). The linear mixed model highlighted a decrease in TIR in the mid-luteal (P = 0.03) and late luteal (P < 0.001) phases compared with the early follicular phase. Time above range was significantly higher during the late luteal phase than the early follicular phase (P = 0.003). Time below range was significantly higher during the mid-follicular phase than in the early follicular phase.

Conclusion

In most of the study population, glucose levels rose linearly throughout the menstrual cycle, reaching a maximum in the late luteal phase. A sharp decrease was seen for most participants at the beginning of menstrual bleeding. This should be taken into consideration in daily care of type 1 diabetes patients to avoid hypoglycemia.
A Modified Ultra-Sensitive ELISA for Measurement of LH in Mice
Authors: Kreisman Michael J , McCosh Richard B , Breen Kellie M
Published: July 2022

A major obstacle to monitoring pulsatile luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion in mice has been an assay with sufficient sensitivity in small blood volumes. In 2013, Steyn and colleagues published a highly sensitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) that overcame this barrier by coupling a duo of LH antibodies effective in accurately measuring LH in 4-µL whole-blood aliquots. To address the unavailability of the original detection antibody, AFP240580Rb, we validated a replacement detection antibody, biotinylated-5303 SPRN-5, to be used within the established ELISA. This modified LH ELISA demonstrated a minimum detection limit of 0.0028 ng/mL and a limit of quantification of 0.0333 ng/mL or 0.0666 ng/mL in diluted whole-blood samples of volume 6.4 µL (1:10) or 3.2 µL (1:20), respectively. Detection antibody 5303 SPRN-5 demonstrated parallelism, high precision, and accuracy across the standard curve. LH concentrations in comparison assays, using either 5303 SPRN-5 or AFP240580Rb, were highly correlated (R2 = 0.9829) and demonstrated LH pulse profiles from gonadectomized mice that were nearly superimposable. Pulsatile LH secretion was demonstrated in gonad-intact males and diestrous females and basal LH levels measured with 5303 SPRN-5 were approximately 5-fold higher than the limit of quantification. In addition, we document utility of this new LH ELISA to accurately measure LH in whole blood or serum across multiple sampling sites, as well as in pituitary extracts, LβT2 cells, or media. In summary, the modified LH ELISA described here is highly effective in measuring LH across a range of sample types and small volumes in mice.
Influence of weighted downhill running training on serial sarcomere number and work loop performance in the rat soleus
Authors: Hinks Avery , Jacob Kaitlyn , Mashouri Parastoo , Medak Kyle D. , Franchi Martino V. , Wright David C. , Brown Stephen H. M. , Power Geoffrey A.
Published: July 2022

Increased serial sarcomere number (SSN) has been observed in rats following downhill running training due to the emphasis on active lengthening contractions; however, little is known about the influence on dynamic contractile function. Therefore, we employed 4 weeks of weighted downhill running training in rats, then assessed soleus SSN and work loop performance. We hypothesised trained rats would produce greater net work output during work loops due to a greater SSN. Thirty-one Sprague-Dawley rats were assigned to a training or sedentary control group. Weight was added during downhill running via a custom-made vest, progressing from 5–15% body mass. Following sacrifice, the soleus was dissected, and a force-length relationship was constructed. Work loops (cyclic muscle length changes) were then performed about optimal muscle length (LO) at 1.5–3-Hz cycle frequencies and 1–7-mm length changes. Muscles were then fixed in formalin at LO. Fascicle lengths and sarcomere lengths were measured to calculate SSN. Intramuscular collagen content and crosslinking were quantified via a hydroxyproline content and pepsin-solubility assay. Trained rats had longer fascicle lengths (+13%), greater SSN (+8%), and a less steep passive force-length curve than controls (P<0.05). There were no differences in collagen parameters (P>0.05). Net work output was greater (+78–209%) in trained than control rats for the 1.5-Hz work loops at 1 and 3-mm length changes (P<0.05), however, net work output was more related to maximum specific force (R2=0.17-0.48, P<0.05) than SSN (R2=0.03-0.07, P=0.17-0.86). Therefore, contrary to our hypothesis, training-induced sarcomerogenesis likely contributed little to the improvements in work loop performance.

This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.
Η επιμόρφωση και κατάρτιση των εκπαιδευτικών στο πεδίο της 4ης Βιομηχανικής Επανάστασης
Authors: Ζωγόπουλος Κωνσταντίνος , Γιώτη Λαμπρίνα
Published: July 2022

Σκοπός της παρούσας έρευνας είναι η διερεύνηση των αντιλήψεων εκπαιδευτικών της Δευτεροβάθμιας Εκπαίδευσης (Δ.Ε.) της Περιφέρειας Δυτικής Ελλάδας για την επιμόρφωση και κατάρτιση υπό το πρίσμα της 4ης βιομηχανικής επανάστασης. Η έρευνα υλοποιήθηκε με ποσοτική μεθοδολογία και τη χορήγηση ερωτηματολογίου στο οποίο ανταποκρίθηκαν 422 εκπαιδευτικοί. Τα αποτελέσματα της έρευνας καταδεικνύουν ότι η ενημέρωση των εκπαιδευτικών Δ.Ε. του δείγματος για την 4η βιομηχανική επανάσταση κινείται σε χαμηλά επίπεδα, αν και οι ίδιοι θεωρούν ότι η επιμόρφωση τους σε αντίστοιχα θέματα είναι σημαντική για τη δουλειά τους και πιστεύουν ότι καλύτερος φορέας οργάνωσης επιμορφωτικών σεμιναρίων είναι το Πανεπιστήμιο. Επίσης, υποστηρίζουν ότι η επιμόρφωση θα πρέπει να έχει προαιρετικό χαρακτήρα, να είναι εξάμηνης διάρκειας και να υλοποιείται με τη μεικτή μέθοδο (σύγχρονες - ασύγχρονες δράσεις με περιορισμένο αριθμό δια ζώσης συνεδριών). Κύρια θεματολογία της επιμόρφωσης θα πρέπει να είναι οι νέες τεχνολογίες και η χρήση τους στην εκπαίδευση. Τέλος, διαπιστώνεται θετική συσχέτιση των δημογραφικών χαρακτηριστικών του δείγματος με τις αντιλήψεις τους για την 4η βιομηχανική επανάσταση και τις επιμορφωτικές τους ανάγκες.
Active Labor market policies and Lifelong Learning in Greece
Authors: Tsiboukli Anna , Efstratoglou Angelos
Published: July 2022

The main goal of the present paper is to discuss how and under what circumstances, active labor market policies and adult education could assist staff to cope with stress and enhance skills and abilities to achieve employment. The high numbers of unemployed in Greece together with the long-term ineffective austerity measures and policies imposed in the country and the reduction of the social welfare state, created many multiple and complex issues that deteriorated after the pandemic. The present paper suggests that specific active labor market policies must be employed together with lifelong learning policies and programmes to ensure future developments. Greece, more than any other modern European country, was faced for several years with extreme austerity measures that affected the social, economic, and personal level. The working population and especially young people had to cope with prolonged unemployment, limited options for reentering the job market and the associated stress that follows exposure to adverse experiences. The phenomena of brain drain and brain waste, are well documented in Greek research and literature. Covid-19 pandemic was another stroke in an already unbalance economy. Lifelong learning programmes, that are meant to assist not only the working but also the general population to increase social and other skills, as a way of ensuring access to the labour market, are addressed to only a small portion of the population and usually to those who need them the least. The current paper presents the challenges that Active labor market and Lifelong policies in Greece must face in the process of coping with prolonged unemployment, brain drain and brain waste.
In search of a model of mentoring adult educators
Authors: Koutsoukos Marios
Published: July 2022

Since the Treaty of Lisbon in 2000, there has been a growing interest in the European area concerning mentoring in adult education, which, however, focuses on adult learners and is linked to their participation in educational programs as well as their inclusion in the labor market (Raschauer & Resch, 2016). This article focuses on adult educators and refers to research aimed at exploring adult educators' views on mentoring as a tool to support their teaching work. The results showed that adult educators desire to mentor and describe a framework that incorporates the concepts of teamwork and reflection. On this basis, a group, reflective model of mentoring is proposed which aims to the inspiration, development, empowerment, and action of adult educators.
Ανάλυση και επεξεργασία ιατρικών δεδομένων
Authors: Μεντζελόπουλος Αναστάσιος
Published: July 2022

Αντικείμενο της παρούσας Διδακτορικής Διατριβής είναι η μελέτη της επίδρασης της χημειοθεραπείας στον εγκέφαλο ασθενών που πάσχουν από μικροκυτταρικό καρκίνο του πνεύμονα (ΜΚΠ), με την αξιοποίηση σύγχρονων τεχνικών απεικόνισης μαγνητικού συντονισμού (MRI,T1,T2), απεικόνισης του τανυστή διάχυσης (DTI) και λειτουργικής απεικόνισης (fΜRI). Για να επιτευχθεί ο σκοπός της παρούσας διατριβής πραγματοποιήθηκε η συλλογή δεδομένων Τ1, Τ2, DTI και fMRI από 24 ασθενείς που πάσχουν από ΜΚΠ και έχουν λάβει χημειοθεραπεία καθώς επίσης και από 14 υγιείς εθελοντές. Το πρώτο στάδιο της ανάλυσης των δεδομένων είχε ως στόχο τη διερεύνηση της ύπαρξης αποδιοργάνωσης της αρχιτεκτονικής των δεσμίδων (fiber tracts) της λευκής ουσίας του εγκεφάλου των ασθενών και το οποίο επιτεύχθηκε με την πραγματοποίηση δυο ειδών επεξεργασίας των δεδομένων DTI,την ντετερμινιστική ανάλυση και την ανάλυση των δεσμίδων σε επίπεδο ογκοστοιχείου (voxel-to-voxel). Επιπλέον μελετήθηκε η ύπαρξη δομικών καταστροφών της φαιάς ουσίας με και την πραγματοποίηση ογκομετρίας στις Τ1 εικόνες ενώ η ανάλυση των fMRI δεδομένων σε επίπεδο λειτουργικής συνδεσιμότητας κατέστησε δυνατή την μελέτη της ύπαρξης λειτουργικών ελλειμάτων. Τα αποτελέσματα των παραπάνω αναλύσεων έδειξαν ότι οι ασθενείς παρουσίασαν διαφορές στην λειτουργική συνδεσιμότητα καθώς επίσης και αλλοιώσεις της φαιάς και της λευκής ουσίας. Το επόμενο στάδιο ήταν σύνδεση του DTI με την θεωρία των γράφων με στόχο την μελέτη της τοπολογικής οργάνωσης των δομικών δικτύων της λευκής ουσίας του εγκεφάλου των ασθενών με ΜΚΠ καθώς επίσης και της δομικής συνδεσιμότητας αυτών των δικτύων. Επιπλέον, μελετήθηκε ένας μεγάλος αριθμός μετρητικών στοιχειών των γράφων όπως το μέσο μήκος διαδρομής, ο συντελεστής ομαδοποίησης, η αποδοτικότητα σε τοπικό και παγκόσμιο επίπεδο, οι κόμβοι υψηλής συνδεσιμότητας και οι προϋποθέσεις μικρόκοσμου. Τα αποτελέσματα αυτής της ανάλυσης έδειξαν ότι οι ασθενείς παρουσίασαν εικόνα σαφούς αποδιοργάνωσης των δομικών δικτύων του εγκεφάλου και ταυτόχρονα και διαφορετική δομική συνδεσιμότητα σε σύγκριση με τους υγιείς, Τέλος, αναπτυχθήκαν μέθοδοι Μηχανικής Εκμάθησης (Machine Learning) οι οποίες εκμεταλλευόμενοι τα δίκτυα δομικής συνδεσιμότητας οδήγησαν στον επιτυχή διαχωρισμό τωνασθενών από τους υγιείς με μεγάλη ακρίβεια. Τα συνολικά αυτά αποτελέσματα παρέχουν μια καλύτερη κατανόηση της επίδρασης και των επιπτώσεων της χημειοθεραπείας στον ανθρώπινο εγκέφαλο.
Η αποτίμηση της πολιτιστικής κληρονομιάς: Μια ανάλυση των οικονομικών εργαλείων και των περιορισμών τους
Authors: Δραγούνη Μήνα
Published: July 2022

Τα τελευταία χρόνια, η διεθνής νεοφιλελεύθερη πολιτική για τον πολιτισμό προωθεί τη ρητορική της «ανταποδοτικότητας των επενδύσεων» στα πολιτιστικά αγαθά και κατ’ επέκταση την ανάγκη δημιουργίας κατάλληλων μεθοδολογιών για την αποτίμηση της αξίας τους. Σε αυτό το πλαίσιο, το παρόν άρθρο εξετάζει ορισμένες από τις βασικές έννοιες και τις μεθόδους των συστημικών οικονομικών, οι οποίες επιστρατεύονται στη μέχρι τώρα βιβλιογραφία για να ορίσουν και να οριοθετήσουν την οικονομική και κοινωνική αξία της πολιτιστικής κληρονομιάς. Όπως υποστηρίζεται, παρότι η αξία των μνημείων συγκροτείται συλλογικά μέσα από πολύπλοκες κοινωνικές διαδικασίες και αλληλεπιδράσεις, οι νεοκλασικές οικονομικές τεχνικές περιορίζονται στην αποσπασματική αποτύπωσή της με όρους ατομικής κατανάλωσης. Καθώς προκύπτει η ανάγκη για μια ολιστική προσέγγιση στο ζήτημα, προτείνεται η σύνθεση μεθοδολογιών που αφενός συνδυάζουν τα εργαλεία των οικονομικών με την ποιοτική συμμετοχική έρευνα και αφετέρου εδράζονται σε ευρύτερες ιδέες και προβληματικές της πολιτικής οικονομίας που απομακρύνονται από τις συνηθισμένες υποθέσεις της μικροοικονομικής θεωρίας.
Μια τυπολογία των ερευνητικών σχεδίων στην ποιοτική έρευνα
Authors: Χριστοδούλου Μιχάλης
Published: July 2022

Στο άρθρο αυτό εισηγούμαστε την ιδέα ότι η αξίωση αιτιακής γνώσης είναι το επιστημολογικό πλαίσιο το οποίο διαφοροποιεί τα ερευνητικά σχέδια μελέτης περίπτωσης από τα ερευνητικά σχέδια βιογραφικών μεθόδων, αφηγηματικής και εθνογραφικής έρευνας, σε καθένα από τα οποία προκρίνεται διαφορετικό είδος αξίωσης γνώσης. Αντλώντας από την κοινωνική οντολογία του Κριτικού Ρεαλισμού, προτείνεται η θέση ότι αιτιακή γνώση κομίζεται μέσα από την τυπολογική θεωρία και τους σχεσιακούς μηχανισμούς. Αναπτύσσουμε μια τυπολογία των ερευνητικών σχεδίων μελέτης περίπτωσης ανάλογα με το αν υπάρχει ή όχι θεωρία για τις συνθήκες και τα αποτελέσματα στα οποία ξεδιπλώνεται το υπό εξέταση φαινόμενο σε σχέση με την οποία (θεωρία) πριμοδοτούνται συγκεκριμένα είδη δειγματοληψίας. Έμφαση δίνεται στους λόγους για τους οποίους οι μελέτες περίπτωσης είναι ένα ισχυρό μεθοδολογικό εργαλείο οικοδόμησης θεωρίας και παραγωγής νέας γνώσης.
Effectiveness and safety profile of mesenchymal stem cell secretome as a treatment for severe cases of COVID-19: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Abdullah Murdani , Pawitan Jeanne Adiwinata , Irawan Cosphiadi , - Rahyussalim , Aditianingsih Dita , Liem Isabella Kurnia , Sinto Robert , Susilo Adityo , Yulianti Mira , Handayani Raden Rara Diah , Pratomo Irandi Putra , Burhan Erlina , Damayanti Triya , Wibowo Heri , Dilogo Ismail Hadisoebroto , Muliawan Hary Sakti , Elhidsi Mia
Published: July 2022

Background: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are known to have immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and angiogenesis effects that are useful for relieving inflammation, recovery, and protection of lung tissues in COVID-19 patients. Secretome, a secretory product of MSCs, has several advantages over MSCs. We conducted a study to investigate secretomes’ effectiveness and safety profile as a treatment for severe COVID-19. 

Methods: A double-blind, multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled trial was conducted between February 2021 and July 2021 in three top COVID-19 referral hospitals in the Greater Jakarta area, Indonesia. Eligible subjects (n=40) were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to an intervention group (n=20) and a control group (n=20). The primary outcome of this study was the changes in inflammatory markers and the ratio of inflammatory to anti-inflammatory markers. The secondary outcomes of this study included clinical outcome, laboratory outcome, radiological outcome, RT-PCR result conversion, and safety profile of MSC secretome.

Results: Our analysis showed that on the 14th day after placebo administration, IL-6 level in the control group was significantly increased [4.110 (2.403–12.820) at baseline to 13.320 (2.958–33.285) on the 14th day after intervention, p=0.017]. The IL-6/IL-10 ratio in the control group was significantly increased (p=0.036) on the 14th day after placebo administration. We also found that most of the subjects who received placebo had high levels of IL-6 and ferritin (p=0.043) on the seventh day after the intervention. However, we found no significant differences in inflammatory marker levels on the seventh day and 14th day after intervention between both groups. There was no adverse event reported. There were no significant differences in the laboratory outcome, radiology outcome, RT-PCR result conversion, and safety profiles between both groups.

Conclusions: MSC secretome can control inflammation in patients with severe COVID-19 and has a good safety profile. MSC secretome is a promising treatment modality for severe COVID-19.
Psychomotor performance in video games
Authors: Horoszkiewicz Krzysztof , Horoszkiewicz Bartosz , Załęski Grzegorz
Published: July 2022

Introduction: Interactive electronic games allow to access virtual environments and interact using a computer or TV screen. Anyone who has played a video game, or seen others playing, is aware of the importance of reaction speed and eye-hand coordination skills.

Objective: To determine the differences in psychomotor performance between professional gamers and amateurs.

Material and Methods:  A total of 62 gamers took part in the study, including 31 people - professional video game users who had participated in e-tournaments in the last month (age: M = 20.6, SD = 6.3) and 31 people who did not play video games or played very rarely (they declared that they did not participate in e-sports tournaments), who constituted the control group (age: M = 17.9, SD = 5.4). Integrated computer SDP-System with an executive module for stimulus generation and reception was used to assess psychomotor performance.

Results: Professional gamers have higher psychomotor skills than amateurs. They reveal better results for fast thinking, motor reactions, perception, attention, and working memory.

Conclusion:

Playing video games has a positive impact on players' psychomotor performance and can promote improvements in elementary cognitive functions.

Key words: video-games; e-sport; psychomotor performance; cognitive functions
Effectiveness of ICT Integrated 5e Learning Model on Higher Order Thinking Skills in Biology at Secondary Level
Authors: Shivam Priyank Kumar , Mohalik Prof. Ramakanta
Published: July 2022

The present study ascertains the effectiveness of ICT integrated 5E learning model on higher order thinking skills in biology over 5E learning model at secondary level. Quantitative design and quasi-experimental method was used in this study. Total 65 students were divided in experimental group (34) and control group (31) by taking two sections of class-IX randomly. The experiment was continued for two months with 5E learning model and ICT integrated 5E learning model strategy with control and experimental group respectively. The self-developed test on higher order thinking skills on biology section of class-IX science textbook of National Council of Educational Research and Training was used as an instrument. The collected data was processed and analysed with the help of jamovi (1.6) open-source software and descriptive and inferential statistics are calculated. The study found that the learners taught through ICT integrated 5E learning model were significantly better in higher order thinking skills in biology than those who were taught through the 5E learning model at 0.01 levels. The ICT integrated 5E learning model is suitable for improving students higher order thinking skills in biology subject. This study has suggested that the ICT integrated 5E learning model can be utilized in teaching learning of biological science for the improvement of students higher order thinking skills.