bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TNFAIP2 confers cisplatin resistance in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma via KEAP1/NRF2 signaling
Authors: Xu Teng , Yang Yuemei , Chen Zhihong , Wang Jinsong , Wang Xiaolei , Zheng Yang , Wang Chao , Wang Yachen , Zhu Zaiou , Ding Xu , Zhou Junbo , Li Gang , Zhang Hongchuang , Zhang Wei , Wu Yunong , Song Xiaomeng
Published: August 2023

Background

Drug resistance limits the treatment effect of cisplatin-based chemotherapy in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), and the underlying mechanism is not fully understood. The aim of this study was to explore the cause of cisplatin resistance in HNSCC.

Methods

We performed survival and gene set variation analyses based on HNSCC cohorts and identified the critical role of tumor necrosis factor alpha-induced protein 2 (TNFAIP2) in cisplatin-based chemotherapy resistance. Half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) examination, colony formation assays and flow cytometry assays were conducted to examine the role of TNFAIP2 in vitro, while xenograft models in nude mice and 4-nitroquinoline N-oxide (4NQO)-induced HNSCC models in C57BL/6 mice were adopted to verify the effect of TNFAIP2 in vivo. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) and coimmunoprecipitation coupled with mass spectrometry (Co-IP/MS) were performed to determine the mechanism by which TNFAIP2 promotes cisplatin resistance.

Results

High expression of TNFAIP2 is associated with a poor prognosis, cisplatin resistance, and low reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in HNSCC. Specifically, it protects cancer cells from cisplatin-induced apoptosis by inhibiting ROS-mediated c-JUN N-terminal kinase (JNK) phosphorylation. Mechanistically, the DLG motif contained in TNFAIP2 competes with nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) by directly binding to the Kelch domain of Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (KEAP1), which prevents NRF2 from undergoing ubiquitin proteasome-mediated degradation. This results in the accumulation of NRF2 and confers cisplatin resistance. Positive correlations between TNFAIP2 protein levels and NRF2 as well as its downstream target genes were validated in HNSCC specimens. Moreover, the small interfering RNA (siRNA) targeting TNFAIP2 significantly enhanced the cisplatin treatment effect in a 4NQO-induced HNSCC mouse model.

Conclusions

Our results reveal the antioxidant and cisplatin resistance-regulating roles of the TNFAIP2/KEAP1/NRF2/JNK axis in HNSCC, suggesting that TNFAIP2 might be a potential target in improving the cisplatin treatment effect, particularly for patients with cisplatin resistance.
The effects of sodium butyrate supplementation on the expression levels of PGC-1α, PPARα, and UCP-1 genes, serum level of GLP-1, metabolic parameters, and anthropometric indices in obese individuals on weight loss diet: a study protocol for a triple-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial
Authors: Amiri Parichehr , Hosseini Seyed Ahmad , Roshanravan Neda , Saghafi-Asl Maryam , Tootoonchian Mitra
Published: August 2023

Background

Obesity is a multifaceted disease characterized by an abnormal accumulation of adipose tissue. Growing evidence has proposed microbiota-derived metabolites as a potential factor in the pathophysiology of obesity and related metabolic conditions over the last decade. As one of the essential metabolites, butyrate affects several host cellular mechanisms related to appetite sensations and weight control. However, the effects of butyrate on obesity in humans have yet to be studied. Thus, the present study was aimed to evaluate the effects of sodium butyrate (SB) supplementation on the expression levels of peroxisome proliferator activated-receptor (PPAR) gamma coactivator-1α (PGC-1α), PPARα and uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) genes, serum level of glucagon-like peptide (GLP1), and metabolic parameters, as well as anthropometric indices in obese individuals on a weight loss diet.

Methods

This triple-blind randomized controlled trial (RCT) will include 50 eligible obese subjects aged between 18 and 60 years. Participants will be randomly assigned into two groups: 8 weeks of SB (600 mg/day) + hypo-caloric diet or placebo (600 mg/day) + hypo-caloric diet. At weeks 0 and 8, distinct objectives will be pursued: (1) PGC-1α, PPARα, and UCP1 genes expression will be evaluated by real-time polymerase chain reaction; (2) biochemical parameters will be assayed using enzymatic methods; and (3) insulin and GLP1 serum level will be assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit.

Discussion

New evidence from this trial may help fill the knowledge gap in this realm and facilitate multi-center clinical trials with a substantially larger sample size.

Trial registration

Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials: IRCT20190303042905N2. Registered on 31 January 2021.
Antibiotic treatment failure of uncomplicated urinary tract infections in primary care
Authors: Koh Sky Wei Chee , Ng Tracy Si Min , Loh Victor Weng Keong , Goh Jun Cong , Low Si Hui , Tan Wei Zhi , Wong Hung Chew , Durai Pradeep , Sun Louisa Jin , Young Doris , Tambyah Paul Anantharajah
Published: August 2023

Background

Higher resistance rates of > 20% have been noted in Enterobacteriaceae urinary isolates towards ciprofloxacin and co-trimoxazole (C + C) in Singapore, compared with amoxicillin-clavulanate and nitrofurantoin (AC + N). This study examined if treatment failure varied between different antibiotics, given different resistant rates, for uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) managed in primary care. We also aimed to identify gaps for improvement in diagnosis, investigations, and management.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted from 2019 to 2021 on female patients aged 18–50 with uncomplicated UTIs at 6 primary care clinics in Singapore. ORENUC classification was used to exclude complicated UTIs. Patients with uncomplicated UTIs empirically treated with amoxicillin-clavulanate, nitrofurantoin, ciprofloxacin or co-trimoxazole were followed-up for 28 days. Treatment failure was defined as re-attendance for symptoms and antibiotic re-prescription, or hospitalisation for UTI complications. After 2:1 propensity score matching in each group, modified Poisson regression and Cox proportional hazard regression accounting for matched data were used to determine risk and time to treatment failure.

Results

3194 of 4253 (75.1%) UTIs seen were uncomplicated, of which only 26% were diagnosed clinically. Urine cultures were conducted for 1094 (34.3%) uncomplicated UTIs, of which only 410 (37.5%) had bacterial growth. The most common organism found to cause uncomplicated UTIs was Escherichia coli (64.6%), with 92.6% and 99.4% of isolates sensitive to amoxicillin-clavulanate and nitrofurantoin respectively. Treatment failure occurred in 146 patients (4.57%). Among 1894 patients treated with AC + N matched to 947 patients treated with C + C, patients treated with C + C were 50% more likely to fail treatment (RR 1.49, 95% CI 1.10–2.01), with significantly higher risk of experiencing shorter time to failure (HR 1.61, 95% CI 1.12–2.33), compared to patients treated with AC + N.

Conclusion

Treatment failure rate was lower for antibiotics with lower reported resistance rates (AC + N). We recommend treating uncomplicated UTIs in Singapore with amoxicillin-clavulanate or nitrofurantoin, based on current local antibiograms. Diagnosis, investigations and management of UTIs remained sub-optimal. Future studies should be based on updating antibiograms, highlighting its importance in guideline development.
Multi-isotope (δ2H, δ13C, δ15N) feather profiles and morphometrics inform patterns of migratory connectivity in three species of North American swallows
Authors: Hobson Keith A. , Kardynal Kevin J.
Published: August 2023

Aerial insectivorous birds have suffered steep population declines in North America over the last 60 years. A lack of information on migratory connectivity between breeding and non-breeding grounds for these species limits our ability to interpret factors affecting their population-specific trends. We determined likely Latin American non-breeding regions of Bank (Riparia riparia), Barn (Hirundo rustica) and Cliff (Petrochelidon pyrrhonota) swallow from populations across their breeding ranges. We used predicted feather hydrogen (δ2Hf) and carbon (δ13Cf) isoscapes for winter-grown feathers to indicate areas of highest probability of moult origin and incorporated these results into a cluster analysis to determine likely broad non-breeding regions. We also assessed variation in wing length among populations to determine the potential for this metric to differentiate population moult origins. We then investigated patterns of multi-isotopic (δ2Hf,δ13Cf,δ15Nf) and wing-length niche occupancy by quantifying niche size and overlap among populations under the assumption that broad niches were consistent with low within-species migratory connectivity and narrow and non-overlapping niches with higher connectivity. Multivariate assignment identified different non-breeding regions and potential clusters of moult origin generally corresponding to Central America and northern South America, eastern and south-central South America, and the western and southern part of that continent, with variation within and among populations and species. Separate niche space indicated different wintering habitat or areas used by species or populations whereas niche overlap indicated only potential spatial similarity. Wing length varied significantly among populations by species, being longer in the west and north for Bank and Cliff Swallow and longer in eastern Canadian Barn Swallow populations. Barn Swallow occupied consistently larger isotopic and wing length niche space than the other species. Comparisons among populations across species showed variable isotopic and wing-length niche overlap generally being greater within breeding regions and lower between western and eastern breeding populations supporting a general North American continental divide for all species with generally low migratory connectivity for all species. We present a novel approach to assessing connectivity using inexpensive and broad isotopic approaches that provides the basis for hypothesis testing using more spatially explicit expensive techniques.
In silico prediction of siRNA to silence the SARS-CoV-2 omicron variant targeting BA.4, BA.5, BQ.1, BQ1.1. and XBB: an alternative to traditional therapeutics
Authors: Islam Rahatul , Shahriar Asif , Fatema Nour , Uddin Muhammad Ramiz , Acharjee Mrityunjoy , Shepon Md Mukhlesur Rahman , Sarkar Avishek , Aurin Khosnur Jahan
Published: August 2023

Background

After the first infection in December 2019, the mutating strains of SARS-CoV2 have already affected a lot of healthy people around the world. But situations have not been as devastating as before the first pandemic of the omicron strains of SARS-CoV2. As of January 2023, five more Omicron offshoots, BA.4, BA.5, B.Q.1, B.Q.1.1 and XBB are now proliferating worldwide. Perhaps there are more variants already dormant that require only minor changes to resurrect. So, this study was conducted with a view to halting the infection afterwards. The spike protein found on the virus outer membrane is essential for viral attachment to host cells, thus making it an attractive target for vaccine, drug, or any other therapeutic development. Small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) are now being used as a potential treatment for various genetic conditions or as antiviral or antibacterial therapeutics. Thus, in this study, we looked at spike protein to see if any potential siRNAs could be discovered from it.

Results

In this study, by approaching several computational assays (e.g., GC content, free energy of binding, free energy of folding, RNA–RNA binding, heat capacity, concentration plot, validation, and finally molecular docking analysis), we concluded that two siRNAs could be effective to silence the spike protein of the omicron variant. So, these siRNAs could be a potential target for therapeutic development against the SARS-CoV2 virus by silencing the spike protein of this virus.

Conclusion

We believe our research lays the groundwork for the development of effective therapies at the genome level and might be used to develop chemically produced siRNA molecules as an antiviral drug against SARS-CoV2 virus infection.

Graphical abstract
Removal of obstructive organized tracheo-bronchial clots under respiratory support using veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in a patient with blunt thoracic trauma: a case report
Authors: Tanikawa Atsushi , Fujita Motoo , Kudo Yasushi , Katsuta Ken , Kurokawa Yoshiaki , Sato Takeaki , Kushimoto Shigeki
Published: August 2023

Background

It has been reported that veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation is useful for treating patients with acute respiratory failure following severe thoracic trauma. However, the removal of an obstructive organized tracheo-bronchial clot under respiratory support using extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in a patient with trauma has never been reported.

Case presentation

A teenage female was injured in a fall and experienced right open hemopneumothorax and bilateral lung contusions. Since she was in refractory shock due to bleeding into the right thoracic cavity, we performed right thoracotomy and resection of the lacerated right middle lobe. After hemorrhage control, her respiratory status could not be maintained under mechanical respiratory support. Therefore, we initiated veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Although her respiratory failure gradually improved, the removal of obstructing tracheo-bronchial organized blood clots using bronchoscopy was required daily. Because of the size and firm adherence of organized clots to the airway membrane, we performed a tracheostomy to remove organized clots directly through the incision under extracorporeal membrane oxygenation without any adverse events on day 9. The next day, she was successfully removed from extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.

Conclusions

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation could provide respiratory support not only for acute respiratory failure but also for removal of obstructing tracheo-bronchial organized clots in patients with severe lung injury following trauma.
Cost-effectiveness analysis of physical activity interventions for people with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder: systematic review
Authors: Jin Huajie , Kolawole Oluwafunso , Wang Zhengwei
Published: August 2023

Background

Clinical guidelines recommend providing physical activity interventions (PAIs) to people with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder for weight management. However, the cost-effectiveness of PAIs is unknown.

Aims

To evaluate the availability and methodological quality of economic evaluations of PAIs for people with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.

Method

Four databases (MEDLINE, Embase, PsycInfo and Scopus) were searched on 5 July 2022. Based on the retrieved studies, forward and backward citation searches were conducted. Two reviewers independently selected studies for inclusion. Study quality was assessed using the Drummond checklist. Review results were presented using narrative synthesis.

Results

Fourteen articles reporting nine studies were included. All included studies assessed PAIs within a multicomponent lifestyle intervention. Mixed findings were reported on the cost-effectiveness of multicomponent lifestyle intervention: three studies reported it as cost-effective; four studies reported it as not cost-effective; and two studies did not conclude whether it was cost-effective or not. Very limited evidence suggests that certain patient subgroups might be more likely to benefit from multicomponent lifestyle interventions with a PAI component: men; individuals with comorbid type 2 diabetes; and individuals who have been psychiatric hospital in-patients for ≥1 year. The quality of included studies ranged from moderate to high.

Conclusions

The current economic evidence suggests that not all modalities of multicomponent lifestyle intervention including a PAI component are cost-effective for people with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder; and not all people with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder would benefit equally from the intervention. Future research is urgently needed to identify the cost-effective modality of PAI for different patient subgroups.
Enhancement and Implementation of a Health Information Technology Module to Improve the Discrete Capture of Cancer Staging in a Diverse Regional Health System
Authors: Walesa Macy B. , Denny Ashley , Patel Alpa , Mulcahy Mary , Kircher Sheetal , George Christopher , Tsarwhas Dean , Ross Ashley , Platanias Leonidas C. , Poylin Vitaly , Yang Anthony D. , Barnard Cynthia , Bilimoria Karl Y. , Merkow Ryan P.
Published: August 2023

PURPOSE

Cancer staging is the foundation for all cancer management decisions. For real-time use, stage must be embedded in the electronic health record as a discrete data element. The objectives of this quality improvement (QI) initiative were to (1) identify barriers to utilization of an existing discrete cancer staging module, (2) identify health information technology (HIT) solutions to support discrete capture of cancer staging data, and (3) increase capture across the oncology enterprise in our diverse health system.

METHODS

Six sigma QI methodologies were used to define barriers and solutions to improve discrete cancer staging. Design thinking principles informed solution development to test prototypes. Two multidisciplinary teams of disease-specific clinicians within GI and genitourinary conducted phased testing pilots to determine health system solutions. Solutions were expanded to all oncology specialties across our health system.

RESULTS

Baseline average discrete staging capture across our health system was 31%. Poor workflow efficiency, limited accountability, and technical design gaps were key barriers to timely, complete staging. Implementation of more than 25 design enhancements to a HIT solution and passive user alerts led to a postimplementation capture rate of 58% across 55 outpatient clinics involving more than 400 clinicians.

CONCLUSION

We identified key barriers to discrete data capture and designed solutions through iterative use of QI methodologies and disease-specific pilots. After implementation, discrete capture of cancer staging nearly doubled across our diverse health system. This approach is scalable and transferable to other initiatives to develop and implement clinically relevant HIT solutions across a diverse health system.
Μελέτη της επίδρασης του εκχυλίσματος από το φυτό Ceratonia siliqua (χαρούπι) στην πειραματικά επαγομένη οστεοπόρωση
Authors: Νέρη Άννα-Αικατερίνη
Published: August 2023

Πληθώρα ερευνητικών δεδομένων τεκμηριώνουν το ρόλο των οιστρογόνων στη ρύθμιση των συμπτωμάτων της εμμηνόπαυσης. Ωστόσο, επειδή η χρήση ορμονικής θεραπείας οιστρογόνων συνδέεται με αξιοπρόσεκτες/σοβαρές παρενέργειες, οι προτιμήσεις των γυναικών στρέφονται προς τα φυτοοιστρογόνα ως μία επιπρόσθετη, ασφαλέστερη επιλογή θεραπευτικής αντιμετώπισης της οστεοπόρωσης. Η δράση των φυτοοιστρογόνων κερδίζει το ενδιαφέρον και πολλών μελετητών. Σκοπός της παρούσας μελέτης ήταν να εξεταστεί η επίδραση του φυτoύ Ceratonia siliqua (χαρούπι) στην πειραματικά επαγόμενη οστεοπόρωση, σε αξιόπιστο μοντέλο μελέτης της μετεμμηνοπαυσιακής οστεοπόρωσης. Τριάντα θηλυκοί επίμυες φυλής Wistar, ηλικίας 10 μηνών, κατανεμήθηκαν τυχαία σε τρεις ομάδες των 10 επίμυων η καθεμία: ομάδα ελέγχου, ομάδα ωοθηκεκτομής (OVX), και ομάδα ωοθηκεκτομής συν C. siliqua (OVX+CS). Μετρήθηκε το σωματικό βάρος και η BMD με απορροφησιομετρία διπλής ενέργειας με ακτίνες Χ (DEXA), τη στιγμή έναρξης του πειράματος. Το σωματικό βάρος, η κατανάλωση τροφής και νερού υπολογίζονταν κάθε 2 εβδομάδες. Όλες οι ομάδες έλαβαν τροφή χωρίς σόγια και υποπροϊόντα σόγιας. Η τροφή που χορηγήθηκε στην ομάδα OVX+CS συμπληρώθηκε με C. siliqua, σε σταδιακά αυξανόμενη συγκέντρωση, μέχρι την επίτευξη της δόσης των 3 g/kg/ημέρα/επίμυ. Όλοι οι επίμυες υποβλήθηκαν σε τρεις μετρήσεις DEXA. Η πρώτη μέτρηση DEXA πραγματοποιήθηκε για όλα τα ζώα στην ηλικία των δέκα μηνών και προ της ωοθηκεκτομής των δύο ομάδων. Η πρώτη μέτρηση και η ωοθηκεκτομή αποτέλεσαν τον χρόνο μηδέν (επίπεδο αναφοράς) του πρωτοκόλλου. Οι επόμενες δύο μετρήσεις DEXA έγιναν τον τρίτο και έκτο μήνα, μετά την πρώτη μέτρηση (χρόνος 0, 3 και 6 μηνών). Μετά την τρίτη μέτρηση DEXA, οι επίμυες ευθανατώθηκαν. Τα αποτελέσματα της παρούσας μελέτη του C. siliqua, έδειξαν ότι, α) μεταξύ των ομάδων των ωοθηκεκτομημένων επίμυων και των ωοθηκεκτομημένων επίμυων που έλαβαν C. siliqua, υπήρχε σημαντική βελτίωση της απώλειας οστικής πυκνότητας της εγγύς κνήμης, και μη σημαντικές διαφορές ως προς την οστική πυκνότητα της κνήμης, β) η χορήγηση του C. siliqua αύξησε σημαντικά τον δείκτη πάχους σε σύγκριση με την ομάδα της ωοθηκεκτομής χωρίς αγωγή, για το δεξί μηριαίο οστό, παρόλο που ο δείκτης πάχους παρέμεινε σημαντικά χαμηλότερος σε σύγκριση με την ομάδα ελέγχου, όταν αυτός αξιολογήθηκε ανεξαρτήτως του υπό εξέταση άκρου. Τα αποτελέσματα αυτά καταδεικνύουν μια δυνητικά ευεργετική επίδραση του C. siliqua στην διαχείριση της μετεμμηνοπαυσιακής οστεοπόρωσης, δημιουργώντας νέες εναλλακτικές λύσεις για τη χρήση του του C. siliqua ως φαρμακολογικού παράγοντα με πιθανό ρόλο στην μείωση της οστικής απώλειας κατά την εμμηνόπαυση. Απαιτούνται περαιτέρω μελέτες, προκειμένου να προσδιοριστεί η αποτελεσματικότητα του C. siliqua ως οστεοπροστατευτικού παράγοντα.
Η πίστη παράγων πρόκλησης ή μη στεφανιαίας νόσου
Authors: Αναδιώτης Αθανάσιος
Published: August 2023

Στις ανεπτυγμένες χώρες, τα καρδιαγγειακά νοσήματα είναι η πιο κοινή αιτία τόσο θανάτου όσο και λειτουργικής αναπηρίας. Τις τελευταίες δεκαετίες, η επιστημονική κοινότητα δείχνει αυξανόμενο ενδιαφέρον για τη διερεύνηση της σχέσης μεταξύ θρησκευτικών και παραγόντων υγείας. Τα ευρήματα αυτής της μελέτης υποδηλώνουν ότι παράγοντες που σχετίζονται με τη θρησκευτικότητα, όπως η αμφιβολία για την πίστη στον Θεό και η θρησκευτική νηστεία μπορεί να επηρεάσουν τη συχνότητα εμφάνισης ΣΝ.
Εκτίμηση του ποσοστού λανθάνοντος άσθματος με ειδικές δοκιμασίες
Authors: Αρμεύτης Χάρης
Published: August 2023

Παρατηρείται υπερδιάγνωση του άσθματος στην Κύπρο; Μία κλινική μελέτη εξωτερικών ασθενών σε πρωτοβάθμια φροντίδα υγείας. Εισαγωγή: Το άσθμα είναι μια κοινή πάθηση του αναπνευστικού όμως αρκετές φορές η επιβεβαίωση της διάγνωσης μπορεί να απουσιάζει με αποτέλεσμα να έχουμε το φαινόμενο της υπερδιάγνωσης η ακόμα και της λανθασμένης διάγνωσης. Στόχος: Να διερευνηθεί εάν η διάγνωση του άσθματος από ιατρούς στην Κύπρο είναι σωστή μετά τη χρήση συστηματικού διαγνωστικού αλγορίθμου στο επίπεδο της πρωτοβάθμιας φροντίδας των ασθενών. Υλικά και Μέθοδοι: Συμπεριλήφθηκαν στη μελέτη 60 ενήλικες με αναφερόμενη ιατρική διάγνωση άσθματος στο ιστορικό τους , μέση ηλικία 47,8 ετών (29 άνδρες και 31 γυναίκες). Το ιατρικό ιστορικό και η φυσική εξέταση, η σπιρομέτρηση πριν και μετά από βρογχοδιαστολή και η δοκιμασία βρογχικής πρόκλησης μεταχολίνης χρησιμοποιήθηκαν για να επιβεβαιώσουν ή να αποκλείσουν τη διάγνωση του άσθματος. Επιπρόσθετα , υπολογίστηκε το κόστος της θεραπείας που έλαβαν πριν την έναρξη της μελέτης. Αποτελέσματα: 16 άτομα (27%) είχαν θετική σπιρομέτρηση προ και μετά βρογχοδιαστολης. Από τους 44 εναπομείναντες οι 9 είχαν θετική δοκιμασία πρόκλησης μεταχολίνης όπου επιβεβαίωσε τη διάγνωση του άσθματος . Οι υπόλοιποι 35 συμμετέχοντες πέρασαν περίοδο παρατήρησης 3 μηνών η και περισσότερο κατά τη διάρκεια της οποίας 2 παρουσίασαν συμπτώματα άσθματος. Σε αυτούς τους 2 πραγματοποιήθηκε δεύτερη δοκιμασία πρόκλησης που ήταν θετική και επιβεβαίωσε τη διάγνωση. Ως εκ τούτου, η διάγνωση άσθματος επιβεβαιώθηκε μόνο σε 27(45%) και αποκλείστηκε σε 33 (55%). Το συνολικό ετήσιο μη αναγκαίο κόστος φαρμακευτικής αγωγής ήταν περίπου 359 ευρώ/συμμετέχοντα που ανήκε στην ομάδα αποκλεισμού του άσθματος. Συμπεράσματα: Η διάγνωση του άσθματος υπερεκτιμά τη νόσο στην Κύπρο, καθώς αποδείχθηκε ότι περισσότεροι από τους μισούς συμμετέχοντες στην μελέτη δεν είχαν τελικά άσθμα. Αυτά τα άτομα καταναλώνουν μη αναγκαία φάρμακα με σημαντική οικονομική επιβάρυνση για το σύστημα. Είναι σημαντικό η διάγνωση του άσθματος να τεκμηριώνεται στα αρχικά στάδια μέσω ενός πλήρους διαγνωστικού αλγορίθμου.
Παράγοντες που επιδρούν στη δια ζώσης και στη διαδικτυακή διδασκαλία των οικονομικών
Authors: Τακάογλου Σοφία
Published: August 2023

Η παρούσα διδακτορική διατριβή έχει ως σκοπό τη διερεύνηση του βαθμού στον οποίο είναι δόκιμο κατά τη διδασκαλία των οικονομικών, η παραδοσιακή τεχνική της διάλεξης -που έρευνες δείχνουν ότι ήρθε για να μείνει- να διανθιστεί με ποικιλία ενεργητικών τεχνικών, ώστε να βελτιωθούν τα μαθησιακά αποτελέσματα. Επιπροσθέτως, στην καμπή δύο δεκαετιών, στην Ελλάδα που αφήνει πίσω της μια βαθιά και παρατεταμένη ύφεση και βιώνει τον απόηχο μιας πανδημίας, μελετήθηκε ο ρόλος που διαδραματίζουν οι κοινωνικο- δημογραφικοί παράγοντες στην κατανόηση και γνώση των οικονομικών εννοιών. Εν κατακλείδι, δραττόμενοι της ευκαιρίας, που δημιούργησαν οι έκτακτες συνθήκες της πανδημίας του κορονοϊού, ο διδακτικός σχεδιασμός μεταφέρθηκε αποκλειστικά σε διαδικτυακό περιβάλλον, ώστε να αποτιμηθεί η επίδραση της διδασκαλίας και σε αυτό το πλαίσιο. Με στόχο την εξεύρεση απαντήσεων σε αυτούς τους προβληματισμούς ξεκίνησε μια έρευνα στο πλαίσιο του μαθήματος Μικροοικονομική του 1ου εξαμήνου, που αφορά στη συνδιδασκαλία των φοιτητών του Τμήματος Οργάνωσης και Διοίκησης Επιχειρήσεων και του Τμήματος Τουριστικών Σπουδών του Πανεπιστημίου Πειραιώς. Σχεδιάστηκε ένα μοντέλο διδασκαλίας που συνδύαζε την εμπλουτισμένη διάλεξη με ποικίλες ενεργητικές τεχνικές (συζητήσεις, χρήση άρθρων από τον τύπο, γελοιογραφιών, ποίησης, βίντεο, φύλλων εργασίας, επίλυση ασκήσεων, ατομικών και ομαδικών εργασιών, κουίζ αξιολόγησης). Το έτος 2018-2019 εφαρμόστηκε το μοντέλο στην πλήρη του μορφή με όλες τις ενεργητικές τεχνικές που αναπτύχθηκαν. Το 2019-2020 τις εμπλουτισμένες διαλέξεις πλαισίωσαν λιγότερες ενεργητικές τεχνικές. Τέλος, το 2020-2021 υπό το βάρος της απαγόρευσης της δια ζώσης λειτουργίας των Πανεπιστημιακών τμημάτων που είχαν εγγεγραμμένους άνω των 50 ατόμων, οι εμπλουτισμένες διαλέξεις υλοποιήθηκαν σε ηλεκτρονικό, διαδικτυακό περιβάλλον μέσω σύγχρονης και ασύγχρονης διδασκαλίας. Η μέτρηση της κατανόησης και της γνώσης των οικονομικών εννοιών έγινε με το ευρέως χρησιμοποιούμενο Test of Understanding of College Economics (TUCE-4), το οποίο συμπλήρωσαν οι φοιτητές στην αρχή και στο τέλος κάθε έτους. Με βάση τα ευρήματα της στατιστικής ανάλυσης στα δεδομένα των τριών ετών, δεν υπάρχει κάποιος δημογραφικός παράγοντας που να συσχετίζεται σταθερά με τα μαθησιακά αποτελέσματα, ενώ η παρακολούθηση οικονομικού μαθήματος στο Λύκειο βελτιώνει την κατανόηση οικονομικών εννοιών. Τα μαθησιακά αποτελέσματα βελτιώθηκαν και στα τρία ακαδημαϊκά έτη. Το μοντέλο που εφαρμόστηκε το 2018-2019 με την πληθώρα των ενεργητικών τεχνικών παρουσίασε στατιστικά σημαντικότερη βελτίωση στα επίπεδα του TUCE-4 από αυτό με τις λιγότερες τεχνικές που χρησιμοποιήθηκε το 2019-2020. Μείζονος σημασίας εύρημα αποτελεί ότι τα διαδικτυακά μαθήματα όχι μόνο δεν υστερούσαν σε αποτελεσματικότητα σε σχέση με τα δια ζώσης του μοντέλου 2018-2019, αλλά βελτίωσαν σημαντικά τα αποτελέσματα σε σχέση με το 2019-2020.
A new species of Perinereis Kinberg, 1865 (Annelida: Nereididae) from the Western Mediterranean Sea revealed by morphological and molecular approaches
Authors: REZZAG MAHCENE HIBA , VILLALOBOS-GUERRERO TULIO  F , KURT GÜLEY , DENIS FRANCOISE , DAAS TAREK
Published: August 2023

This study uses morphological and molecular evidence to describe a new intertidal species of Perinereis Kinberg, 1865 (Annelida: Nereididae) from northeast Algeria. Perinereis louizomarum n. sp. belongs to Subgroup 1A, which is distinguished by a  single bar shaped paragnath on area VI of the proboscis and a dorsal ligule that is either slightly or not expanded in the posterior parapodia. The new species differs from P. cultrifera and similar congeners by having a bare area V and slightly enlarged posterior dorsal ligules. Furthermore, using newly generated and mined sequences from online databases, and mined sequences of Perinereis species from online, the analysis of cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COI) mitochondrial gene sequences supported its status as new species. An identification key of the Perinereis species belonging to Subgroup 1A is also provided.
Redefinition of Rural Spaces: A Methodological Tool
Authors: Kanaraki Evanthia , Konstantopoulou Anastasia , Ntogou Elina , Klabatsea Rena , Konstantinidou Elena
Published: August 2023

The desolation of rural areas and historic settlements is a particularly intense phenomenon in recent decades. Gradually, the tradition and history of these places are being worn away leading to the alteration of their identity. The economy is monopolized by the service and tourism sectors and quite often, this converts them into a seasonal touristic product.

The "redefinition" of the rural space is a necessary condition in order to formulate a sustainable strategic plan which will respond to contemporary needs and at the same time, respect the uniqueness of the place and preserve its cultural identity.

This paper attempts to highlight a methodological tool for the planning of the rural areas, in terms of protecting and promoting them, on the occasion of the research carried out in the context of a diploma project for the broader region of Fodele village, in northern Heraklion (Crete).

A key element for the research is the utilization of endogenous resources and their correlation with extraneous trends. Using this tool, conceptual networks of different resource types are created. By projecting these networks onto the space, and taking into consideration geospatial criteria (proximity, topography, type of resource), spatial units of particular identity are being formed. Resources- networks of social type and stakeholders co-act to implement a strategic plan for the revitalization and promotion of the spatial units (anthropogenic and physical environment).

The procedure relates to a system of successive space readings and interpretative mapping at multiple scales. The conclusions derived from each stage lead to the next. Ultimately, this interdisciplinary process forms the essential background and design principles, for the articulation of a comprehensive strategic plan, aiming at the revitalization of the rural space and its sustainable development/enhancement (cultural, heritage, economic, environmental, etc.) in contemporary terms.
Highlighting of the Interwar identity of the Fokionos Negri street-linear park.
Authors: Eleftheraki Georgia , Haniotou Helene , Markou Maria
Published: August 2023

The Greek legal framework for the protection of the architectural heritage of the center of Athens promotes, for historical-political reasons, its archaeological wealth and neoclassical interpretation, neglecting the protection and promotion of important buildings and open spaces of the 20th century which, as modern monuments, complete the city’s image and identity, interpreting its evolution mechanisms and the way that people appropriate it in the everyday life. Our research project aims to study the historic urban landscape of the Fokionos Negri street- linear park that has been formed during the first half of the 20th century and hosts many buildings characteristic of "Athenian modernism", an area of significant importance for the functional and social evolution of the wider center of Athens. The research goals have a triple approach, architecture, landscape and social. One of the main goals is the presentation and analysis of the notable morphological and typological features of the interwar apartment buildings on the street, but also of the history of their people. This approach is presented in the issue we created for one of the Interwar apartment buildings and landmark of the area, the Lanaras family’s apartment building. The project aims to contribute both to the documentation of the interwar architectural heritage of Athens and to the production of a broad framework of knowledge that may be the basis for how to understand and appreciate the historic urban landscape in Greece, in order to elaborate the criteria of its protection and prudent management.
Mutational profile of primary clear cell renal cell carcinoma predicts recurrence and potential candidacy for adjuvant immune checkpoint inhibition
Authors: Vlachostergios Panagiotis J. , Papathanassiou Maria , Anagnostou Maria , Thodou Eleni , Tamposis Ioannis , Mitrakas Lampros , Zachos Ioannis , Ioannou Maria , Koukoulis George K. , Samara Maria , Tzortzis Vassilios
Published: August 2023

Background: The risk of recurrence after nephrectomy for primary clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is estimated in daily practice solely based on clinical criteria. The aim of this study was to assess the prognostic relevance of common somatic mutations with respect to tumor aggressiveness and outcomes of ccRCC patients after definitive treatment.

Methods: Primary tumors from 37 patients with ccRCC who underwent radical nephrectomy were analyzed for presence of somatic mutations using a 15-gene targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) panel. Associations to histopathologic characteristics and outcomes were investigated in the study cohort (n=37) and validated in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) ccRCC cohort (n=451).

Results: VHL was the most frequently mutated gene (51%), followed by PBRM1 (27%), BAP1 (13%), SETD2 (13%), KDM5C (5%), ATM (5%), MTOR (5%), and PTEN (3%). One-third of patients did not have any somatic mutations within the 15-gene panel. The vast majority of tumors harboring no mutations at all or VHL-only mutations (51%) were more frequently of smaller size (pT1-2) and earlier stage (I/II), whereas presence of any other gene mutations in various combinations with or without VHL was enriched in larger (pT3) and higher stage tumors (III) (p=0.02). No recurrences were noted in patients with unmutated tumors or VHL-only mutations as opposed to three relapses in patients with non-VHL somatic mutations (p=0.06). Presence of somatic mutations in PBRM1, BAP1, SETD2, KDM5C, ATM, MTOR, or PTEN genes in 451 TCGA ccRCC patients was associated with a significantly shorter disease-free survival (DFS) compared to those with unaltered tumors (q=0.01).

Conclusions: Preliminary findings from this ongoing study support the prognostic value of non-VHL mutations including PBRM1, BAP1, SETD2, KDM5C, ATM, MTOR, and PTEN in primary ccRCC tumors as surrogates of earlier recurrence and potential selection for adjuvant immune checkpoint inhibition.
Addressing the Energy Consumption Factors in Job Shop Scheduling using MEESA
Authors: Kumaresan Anandapadmanabhan
Published: August 2023

In Job shop Scheduling Energy conservation is a key factor to be considers for minimizing the lateness and makespan of the shop here in this paper a new technic Modified Energy Efficiency Scheduling Algorithm (MEESA) is used in the proposed work it is divided into two parts analysing effective rate and modified scheduled aware mechanism, the MEESA algorithm enhances the efficiency rate, makespan, in job shop scheduling.
Recommender System (RS): Challenges, Issues & Extensions
Authors: Kumar Sahni Dheeraj
Published: August 2023

Recommendations are long chains followed from traditional life to today’s life. In everyday life, the chain of recommendation augments the social process via some physical media and digital applications. The issues and challenges of recommendation are still in the infancy due to the growth of technology. This article identifies the uncovered areas of concern and links them to novel solutions. We also provide an extensive literature with different dimension for the newbie to work with the subject. We observed the study with different taxonomy provided by the prevalent researcher of the recommender system. This article gives the remedial solution of the recommendation problems
Towards Controlling Mouse through Hand Gestures: A Novel and Efficient Approach
Authors: Waybhase Nitin , Joshi Hritik , Litoriya Ratnesh , Mangal Dharmendra
Published: August 2023

We tend to notice a lot of development in the computing world in today’s modern world. Computer science is a technique that combines today's technologies. This paper is also backed by a small portion of AI. This paper shows how to use our computer's window exploitation camera to create a hand gesture-based virtual mouse that allows you to control the entire system by merely moving your fingertips. Finger detecting methods for quick camera access and simple computer software make it even more accessible. A motion tracking mouse is implemented using the system. This technology eliminates the need for a physical mouse, saving time and effort.
Solution of Homogeneous Linear Fractional Differential Equations Involving Conformable Fractional Derivative
Authors: TYAGI ANUJ , Chandel Jyotsna
Published: August 2023

In this paper, we have found the solution of linear sequential fractional differential equations involving conformable fractional derivatives of order  with constant coefficients. For this purpose, we first discussed fundamental properties of the conformable derivative and then obtained successive conformable derivatives of the fractional exponential function. After this, we determined the analytic solution of linear sequential fractional differential equations (L.S.F.D.E.) in terms of a fractional exponential function. We have demonstrated this developed method with a few examples of homogeneous linear fractional differential equations. This method gives a conjugation with the method to solve classical linear differential equations with constant coefficients.
Fixed Point Theorem for Fuzzy B-type Contractions in Fuzzy Metric Spaces
Authors: Singh Vizender , Singh Bijender , Ahlawat Anil
Published: August 2023

Recently, in 2021, Bijender et al. proposed the establishment of  -contraction. Such sort of contraction is a genuine generalization of the standard contraction in the study of metric fixed point theory. The aim of the present study is the establishment of the novel concept of the fuzzy B-type contraction in the settings of fuzzy metric space and such contractions are also used to establish a few fixed point theorems.
Editorial
Authors: Vincent Jaiwant Sunanda
Published: August 2023

Lately, a greater number of industries are moving towards sustainability, sustainable products and process. Sustainable fashion is a term that is quite a in vogue lately. Study reveals that the fashion industry is the second largest industry polluting the environment. It is now driving several eco-conscious brands and individuals to opt-out of fast fashion and adopt more planet-friendly strategies. Sustainable fashion is catching up like fire in India. Sustainable, eco-conscious brands from across the country are organizing online as well as offline sales of their goods. India has witnessed many homegrown fashion and accessory brands that are moving towards sustainable clothing and fashion. The fashion industry has joined the bandwagon in the last few years to remain in the good books of their customers and to resonate with the sustainability revolution.
Analysing Research Trends in the Indian Hospitality and Tourism Sector: A Bibliometric Analysis for the Period 2000-21
Authors: Dahiya Ashish , Kumar Anoop , Duggal Shelly , Kumar Singh Pankaj , Dhoundiyal Himanshi
Published: August 2023

The purpose of the study was to have an overview of the popular themes studied by Indian researchers from 2000 to 2021. The paper helped to identify the trends and development in the research area in the context of the Indian hospitality and tourism sector. The study selected 1821 research papers of Indian origin from the Scopus database published in 22 years (2000-2021). The selected publications were analysed using different bibliometric methods of analysis using biblioshiny and VOS viewer within the scope of several parameters. The entire period was divided into three distinct timeframes to study the research trends during that time frame. The maximum number of articles have been published in recent years, i.e., 2020, while the minimum number of article publications was observed in 2001. 1241 citations were received in 2019 and received only 110 citations were seen in 2005. "Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes" and "International Journal of Contemporary Hospitality Management" have been reported to be the most productive journals. At the same time, 'Singh S.' is the most effective author with a maximum number of articles, while 'Jauhari V' has the most citations for the work. Sustainability and Conservation are the themes of common interest irrespective of timeframe, while the role of social media, covid 19, are recent trending topics for researchers. Despite contributing significantly to the hospitality and tourism literature in the Indian context, the study has a few limitations. The present study did not include publications other than articles like conference proceedings, book chapters, dissertations, etc. Selection of tools used and the keywords chosen for the study also limit the outcome. The findings of the analysis are helpful in better understanding the direction of research themes in the hotel and tourism sector. Evaluation of prominent authors and their work helps to focus on the trending themes in the sector among researchers. Additionally, it aids future researchers in determining the trends in the hospitality and tourism sector. To the best of the author’s knowledge, the sample used for this study was the most extensive group of publications published in India’s hospitality and tourism sector. By outlining the current research orientations and trends in hospitality and tourism, this study significantly contributes to the existing literature.
Analysing Moderating Effects of Demographic Variables on Customer Satisfaction: A Study of Quick Service Restaurant
Authors: Shandilya Gautam , Dubey Ajitabh , Srivastava Praveen
Published: August 2023

Customers' perceptions of service quality are essential for service companies' survival in today’s challenging business environment. While much research has been conducted on service quality, relatively few have examined how demographic variables influence the connection between the quality of service and price on customer satisfaction in the fast-food outlets or what is now known as Quick Service Restaurant (QSR). The present study attempts to gain a deeper insight into the association of Customer Satisfaction (CS) with Service Quality (SQ) and Pricing (value). Simultaneously, the current study also explores how the demographic variables moderate the relationship between the constructs described above.

It is a quantitative research that used a standardized, self-administered online questionnaire and a random sample technique to collect data from 360 customers of QSR in India. SPSS and Smart PLS were used to analyze the data obtained. Smart PLS was used to ascertain the impact of price and SQ on CS and the effect of moderating variables.

The finding suggests that both price and SQ have a positive and significant relation with CS. The demographic variables moderate the relationship between price and customer satisfaction; however, only income moderates the relationship between SQ and CS. These results suggest that restaurant QSR managers/owners should strengthen Service Quality to enhance Customer Satisfaction. Hence, the manager/owner should provide value for money and quality service to their customer to satisfy them.
German climate legislation on the pathway to the 1.5°C Temperature goal?
Authors: Stäsche Uta
Published: August 2023

Climate lawsuits are rising worldwide. Correspondingly, there are a growing number of landmark rulings by courts. On 29 April 2021, the German Federal Constitutional Court (BVerfG), issued its significant Order on the deficiencies of German Climate Change legislation. This paper analyses in detail the court’s key deliberations and outlines its unacceptable features. In this context, the similarities and differences between the Court Order and the historic Urgenda ruling of the Hoge Raad, the Supreme Court of the Netherlands, are illustrated. This paper explores the reasons why the amended German Climate Change Act of 2021, also lacks compatibility with the Basic Law of Germany, i.e., its Constitution. In the last section, the serious consequences of the current European security crisis caused by Russia’s war against Ukraine are highlighted. Here, the strong interweaving of fossil energy dependence and climate emergency is shown.
Legal Academia and Legal Aid clinics: The two invisible pillars for dispute resolution
Authors: A. Nagarathna , Mammen Rhea Roy
Published: August 2023

Justice delivery in a society depends on its legal framework and the institutional framework through which such justice is delivered. Law Schools through which legal education is delivered play a crucial role in the justice delivery system in a country. In India, different formats of legal educational institutions are found, all of which have their own conception of ‘justice’ and have adopted their own mode of delivering legal education in order to cater to the need of the ‘justice’ delivery system of the country. Two important limps of legal education are the legal academia and the Legal aid clinics. Restriction on engaging these resources for dispute resolution is not only a waste of intellectual resources but also a burden on society. The current paper focuses on different ways to engage the above limps as a catalyst to expedite justice delivery.
Misappropriation of Trade Secrets Under the Indian Legal Framework: An Analytical Study
Authors: T. N. Veena
Published: August 2023

The main purpose of this paper is to examine  the aspects of the misappropriation of trade secrets under the Indian legal framework, and how this can be prevented. The paper also tries  to understand the nature of trade secrets, the reasons for protecting them, and the practical challenges in identifying and protecting them as there is no legal framework in India to protect trade secrets from misappropriation. The  paper concludes by highlighting  the challenges to  the Indian legal framework, in handling and protecting the misappropriation of trade secrets.
Pathological personality traits from ICD-11 and attachment – Comparison of 10 models of attachment dimensions
Authors: Siczek Anna , Cieciuch Jan
Published: August 2023

Cel pracy

Celem badania była analiza związków między zaburzeniami osobowości w nowym dymensjonalnym ujęciu ICD-11 a przywiązaniem różnie konceptualizowanym w dziesięciu modelach i operacjonalizowanym w siedmiu kwestionariuszach.

Metoda

Badanie zostało przeprowadzane online i uczestniczyła w nim grupa niekliniczna N = 391 (68% kobiet, 30% mężczyzn i 2% osób które zaznaczyły kategorie ,,inna’’ w wieku od 16 do 65 lat; M = 24,91; SD = 7,8). Przywiązanie mierzone było za pomocą siedmiu kwestionariuszy, a do pomiaru zaburzeń osobowości wykorzystano polską adaptację Kwestionariusza PICD (pomiar zaburzeń osobowości wg ICD-11).

Wyniki

Przeprowadzona analiza regresji ujawniła spójny obraz związków między przywiązaniem pozabezpiecznym (niezależnie od modelu) a zaburzeniami osobowości. Negatywny Afekt i Rozhamowanie wiążą się z przywiązaniem lękowym a Izolacja oraz Dyssocjalność z unikającym. Anankastyczność wykazała jedynie sporadyczny związek z przywiązaniem.

Wnioski

Przywiązanie kształtujące się w dzieciństwie ma istotny związek z występowaniem zaburzeń osobowości u dorosłych. W przeprowadzonym badaniu uzyskano spójny obraz zależności dzięki zastosowaniu wielu konceptualizacji i operacjonalizacji przywiązania.