bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Normal ex vivo mesenchymal stem cell function combined with abnormal immune profiles sets the stage for informative cell therapy trials in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis patients
Authors: Atanasova Elena , Milosevic Dragana , Bornschlegl Svetlana , Krucker Karen P. , Jacob Eapen K. , Carmona Porquera Eva M. , Anderson Dagny K. , Egan Ashley M. , Limper Andrew H. , Dietz Allan B.
Published: January 2022

Background

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic, progressive pulmonary disease characterized by aberrant tissue remodeling, formation of scar tissue within the lungs and continuous loss of lung function. The areas of fibrosis seen in lungs of IPF patients share many features with normal aging lung including cellular senescence. The contribution of the immune system to the etiology of IPF remains poorly understood. Evidence obtained from animal models and human studies suggests that innate and adaptive immune processes can orchestrate existing fibrotic responses. Currently, there is only modest effective pharmacotherapy for IPF. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs)-based therapies have emerged as a potential option treatment of IPF. This study characterizes the functionality of autologous MSCs for use as an IPF therapy and presents an attempt to determine whether the disease occurring in the lungs is associated with an alterated immune system.

Methods

Comprehensive characterization of autologous adipose-derived MSCs (aMSCs) from 5 IPF patient and 5 age- and gender-matched healthy controls (HC) was done using flow cytometry, PCR (ddPCR), multiplex Luminex xMAP technology, confocal microscopy self-renewal capacity and osteogenic differentiation. Additionally, multi-parameter quantitative flow cytometry of unmanipulated whole blood of 15 IPF patients and 87 (30 age- and gender-matched) HC was used to analyze 110 peripheral phenotypes to determine disease-associated changes in the immune system.

Results

There are no differences between autologous aMSCs from IPF patients and HC in their stem cell properties, self-renewal capacity, osteogenic differentiation, secretome content, cell cycle inhibitor marker levels and mitochondrial health. IPF patients had altered peripheral blood immunophenotype including reduced B cells subsets, increased T cell subsets and increased granulocytes demonstrating disease-associated alterations in the immune system.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that there are no differences in aMSC properties from IPF patients and HC, suggesting that autologous aMSCs may be an acceptable option for IPF therapy. The altered immune system of IPF patients may be a valuable biomarker for disease burden and monitoring therapeutic response,
Multistep schemes for solving backward stochastic differential equations on GPU
Authors: Kapllani Lorenc , Teng Long
Published: January 2022

The Backward Stochastic Differential Equation (BSDE) is an important tool for pricing and hedging. Highly accurate pricing for low computation time becomes interesting for minimizing monetary loss. Therefore, we explore the opportunity of parallelizing high-order multistep schemes in option pricing. In the multistep scheme the computations at each space grid point are independent and this fact motivates us to select massively parallel GPU computing using CUDA. In our investigations we identify performance bottlenecks and apply appropriate optimization techniques to reduce the computation time in a uniform space domain. Runtime experiments manifest optimistic speedups for the parallel implementation on a single GPU, NVIDIA GeForce 1070 Ti.
Antibacterial effect on microscale rough surface formed by fine particle bombarding
Authors: Nishitani Tomoko , Masuda Kyosuke , Mimura Soma , Hirokawa Takahiko , Ishiguro Hitoshi , Kumagai Masao , Ito Takeshi
Published: January 2022

Fine particle bombarding (FPB) is typically utilized to modify metal surfaces by bombarding them with fine particles at high-speed. The diameters of the particles range from several to tens of micrometers. FPB forms fine microscale concavities and convexities on a surface. As FPB-treated surfaces are widely used in the food industry, the influence of bacteria on their surface must be considered. In this study, we examined the antibacterial activity of microscale rough surfaces formed by FPB. We applied FPB to a stainless-steel surface and evaluated the antibacterial effect of FPB-treated surfaces based on JIS Z 2801 (a modified test method from ISO 22196:2007). Our results indicated that the FPB-treated surfaces (FPB-1 (avg. pitch: 0.72 µm) and FPB-2 (avg. pitch: 3.56 µm)) exhibited antibacterial activity both against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus.

Graphical Abstract
Utility and reliability of the Clinical Frailty Scale in patients scheduled for major vascular surgery: a prospective, observational, multicentre observer-blinded study
Authors: Ayyash Reema , Knight Joanne , Kothmann Elke , Eid Mohamed , Ayyash Katie , Colling Kerry , Yates David , Mill Aileen , Danjoux Gerard
Published: January 2022

Background

Frailty is a distinctive health state associated with a loss of physiological reserve that results in higher rates of perioperative complications and impaired return to pre-morbid functional status. It is prevalent in the vascular population; however routine assessment is not common despite national guidance to the contrary. We aimed to evaluate the reliability of the Clinical Frailty Scale in assessing frailty in the surgical vascular population.

Methods

In this prospective, observational, observer-blinded study, we compared assessment of frailty in patients scheduled for major vascular surgery attending the pre-operative assessment clinic using the Clinical Frailty Scale against the Edmonton Frailty Scale.

The study investigator completed the Edmonton Frailty Scale assessment; this was compared to the Clinical Frailty Scale assessments performed by the pre-assessment consultant and pre-assessment nurse, who were blinded to the Edmonton Frailty Scale score. The inter-rater reliability of the Clinical Frailty Scale between the pre-assessment consultant and pre-assessment nurse was determined by comparing their frailty scores for each patient.

Results

Ninety-seven patients were included in the analysis (median age 72 years, 84% male and 16% female). There was a moderate level of agreement between the Edmonton and Clinical Frailty Scale score for both consultants (87.6% agreement) and pre-assessment nurses (87.6% agreement). There was a substantial level of agreement between consultants and pre-assessment nurses for the Clinical Frailty Scale (89.7% agreement)

Conclusions

The Clinical Frailty Scale is a useful tool to assess frailty in the vascular surgical population. It is more practical than the Edmonton Frailty Scale: quick to complete, requires minimal training and can be used when physical disability is present.

Trial registration

The study was approved by the Wales Health and Care Research Ethics Service (REC reference 17/WA/0160, IRAS 201173). Trial registration: NCT03403673. Registered 19 January 2018, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03403673
What are the effects of herbivore diversity on tundra ecosystems? A systematic review protocol
Authors: Barrio Isabel C. , Barbero-Palacios Laura , Kaarlejärvi Elina , Speed James D. M. , Heiðmarsson Starri , Hik David S. , Soininen Eeva M.
Published: January 2022

Background

Changes in the diversity of herbivore communities can strongly influence the functioning of northern ecosystems. Different herbivores have different impacts on ecosystems because of differences in their diets, behaviour and energy requirements. The combined effects of different herbivores can in some cases compensate each other but lead to stronger directional changes elsewhere. However, the diversity of herbivore assemblages has until recently been a largely overlooked dimension of plant–herbivore interactions. Given the ongoing environmental changes in tundra ecosystems, with increased influx of boreal species and changes in the distribution and abundance of arctic herbivores, a better understanding of the consequences of changes in the diversity of herbivore assemblages is needed. This protocol presents the methodology that will be used in a systematic review on the effects of herbivore diversity on different processes, functions and properties of tundra ecosystems.

Methods

This systematic review builds on an earlier systematic map on herbivory studies in the Arctic that identified a relatively large number of studies assessing the effects of multiple herbivores. The systematic review will include primary field studies retrieved from databases, search engines and specialist websites, that compare responses of tundra ecosystems to different levels of herbivore diversity, including both vertebrate and invertebrate herbivores. We will use species richness of herbivores or the richness of functional groups of herbivores as a measure of the diversity of the herbivore assemblages. Studies will be screened in three stages: title, abstract and full text, and inclusion will follow clearly identified eligibility criteria, based on their target population, exposure, comparator and study design. The review will cover terrestrial Arctic ecosystems including the forest-tundra ecotone. Potential outcomes will include multiple processes, functions and properties of tundra ecosystems related to primary productivity, nutrient cycling, accumulation and dynamics of nutrient pools, as well as the impacts of herbivores on other organisms. Studies will be critically appraised for validity, and where studies report similar outcomes, meta-analysis will be performed.
Compliance with hand disinfection in the surgical area of an orthopedic university clinic: results of an observational study
Authors: Baier Claas , Tinne Maren , von Lengerke Thomas , Gossé Frank , Ebadi Ella
Published: January 2022

Background

Hand hygiene using alcoholic hand rub solution is essential for the prevention of surgical site infections. There are several opportunities for hygienic hand disinfection (termed “hand hygiene” in the following) during immediate pre-, intra- and postoperative orthopedic patient care. However, the level of hand hygiene compliance among surgical and anesthesia staff in this context is unclear. Therefore, we conducted an observational study in operating theatres of an orthopedic university clinic in northern Germany during July and August 2020.

Methods

One trained person directly and comprehensively observed hand hygiene compliance of surgical and anesthesia staff according to the WHO “My 5 moments for hand hygiene” model (WHO-5). In addition to cross-tabulations with Chi2 tests, multiple logistic regression models were used to study associations between occupational group, medical specialty, and compliance (both overall and for each WHO-5 indication). Models were adjusted for hand hygiene opportunities being associated with female or male healthcare workers, being located within or outside the operation room, and occurring in adult or pediatric surgery.

Results

In total, 1145 hand hygiene opportunities during 16 surgeries were observed. The overall compliance was 40.8% (95% CI 37.9–43.6%), with a larger difference between surgical versus anesthesia staff (28.4% vs. 46.1%, p < 0.001) than between physicians versus nurses (38.5% vs. 42.9%, p = 0.13). Adjusting for sex, place of observation, and adult versus pediatric operation theatre, logistic regression analyses revealed a significant interaction between medical specialty and occupational group (p < 0.001). In particular, the odds for compliance were higher for anesthesiologists (47.9%) than for surgeons (19.6%) (OR = 4.8, 95% CI 3.0–7.6). In addition, compliance was higher in pediatric surgery (OR = 1.9, 95% CI 1.4–2.6). In general, WHO-5-stratified results were in line with these overall patterns.

Conclusions

Hygienic hand disinfection compliance was approximately 41%. Notably, surgeons performed worse than anesthesiologists did. These results indicate that hand hygiene compliance in orthopedic surgery needs to be improved. Tailored interventions promise to be an appropriate way to address each occupational group’s specific needs.
An integrated model for evaluation of big data challenges and analytical methods in recommender systems
Authors: Asemi Adeleh , Asemi Asefeh , Ko Andrea , Alibeigi Ali
Published: January 2022

The study aimed to present an integrated model for evaluation of big data (BD) challenges and analytical methods in recommender systems (RSs). The proposed model used fuzzy multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) which is a human judgment-based method for weighting of RSs’ properties. Human judgment is associated with uncertainty and gray information. We used fuzzy techniques to integrate, summarize, and calculate quality value judgment distances. Then, two fuzzy inference systems (FIS) are implemented for scoring BD challenges and data analytical methods in different RSs. In experimental testing of the proposed model, A correlation coefficient (CC) analysis is conducted to test the relationship between a BD challenge evaluation for a collaborative filtering-based RS and the results of fuzzy inference systems. The result shows the ability of the proposed model to evaluate the BD properties in RSs. Future studies may improve FIS by providing rules for evaluating BD tools.
Myocardial CT perfusion imaging for the detection of obstructive coronary artery disease: multisegment reconstruction does not improve diagnostic performance
Authors: Preuß Daniel , Garcia Gonzalo , Laule Michael , Dewey Marc , Rief Matthias
Published: January 2022

Background

Multisegment reconstruction (MSR) was introduced to shorten the temporal reconstruction window of computed tomography (CT) and thereby reduce motion artefacts. We investigated whether MSR of myocardial CT perfusion (CTP) can improve diagnostic performance in detecting obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) compared with halfscan reconstruction (HSR).

Methods

A total of 134 patients (median age 65.7 years) with clinical indication for invasive coronary angiography and without cardiac surgery prospectively underwent static CTP. In 93 patients with multisegment acquisition, we retrospectively performed both MSR and HSR and searched both reconstructions for perfusion defects. Subgroups with known (n= 68) or suspected CAD (n= 25) and high heart rate (n= 30) were analysed. The area under the curve (AUC) was compared applying DeLong approach using ≥ 50% stenosis on invasive coronary angiography as reference standard.

Results

Per-patient analysis revealed the overall AUC of MSR (0.65 [95% confidence interval 0.53, 0.78]) to be inferior to that of HSR (0.79 [0.69, 0.88];p= 0.011). AUCs of MSR and HSR were similar in all subgroups analysed (known CAD 0.62 [0.45, 0.79]versus0.72 [0.57, 0.86];p= 0.157; suspected CAD 0.80 [0.63, 0.97]versus0.89 [0.77, 1.00];p= 0.243; high heart rate 0.46 [0.19, 0.73]versus0.55 [0.33, 0.77];p= 0.389). Median stress radiation dose was higher for MSR than for HSR (6.67 mSvversus3.64 mSv,p< 0.001).

Conclusions

MSR did not improve diagnostic performance of myocardial CTP imaging while increasing radiation dose compared with HSR.

Trial registration

CORE320:clinicaltrials.govNCT00934037, CARS-320: NCT00967876.
Mobile phone radiation might alter gene expression in the oral squamous epithelial cells
Authors: Khalil Ahmad M. , Al-Qaoud Khaled M. , Alemam Israa F. , Okour Mohammad A.
Published: January 2022

Background

Accumulating evidence has shown that radiofrequency radiation (RFR) emitted by mobile phones is a potential factor for DNA damage. Whether RFR affects the gene expression of human genes still requires further research. This may help in understanding the mechanisms of action of this radiation. On the assumption that expression of BAMBI and Survivin in the oral squamous epithelial cells might be modified in response to RF electromagnetic field (RF-EMF) exposure, the current study was conducted on a group of young university student volunteers.

Results

Statistical analysis of the RT-PCR data indicated that no significant association (P value ˃ 0.05) exists between the expression of either gene, and neither the length of history nor the frequency of the phone use.

Conclusions

Although no clear RF-EMF signature on gene expression could be detected in this in this preliminary study, it is one of the few studies indicating that molecular-level changes might take place in humans in response to chronic mobile phone EMR exposure. Further investigations in this field are warranted.
Efficacy and safety of sofosbuvir and daclatasvir in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus induced cirrhosis with Child-Pugh class B
Authors: El Raziky Mayssa , Hamdy Sherif , Hamada Yasser , Abdelaziz Nermin Mohamed , Hassany Mohamed , Doss Wahid , Zakaria Zeinab
Published: January 2022

Background

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy, safety and tolerability of SOF/DCV ± RBV in a cohort of Egyptian patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC)-induced cirrhosis with decompensation (class B7–B9).

Results

After excluding the 9 patients who withdrew, SVR12 rate according to per protocol analysis was 82.9% (92/111), non-response and relapse rates were 2.7% (3/111) for each, 4 patients died secondary to hematemesis, and 8.1% stopped therapy due to worsening of Child’s class. SVR12 rate was significantly higher among patients with higher baseline WBCs count and lower among patients with Child-Pugh class B9. All treatment intolerant patients had ascites in pre-treatment assessment (P = 0.02). There was a significant decline in the levels of hemoglobin, ALT and AST, and serum bilirubin (P < 0.001) and a significant increase in albumin level (P < 0.001) at the end of treatment when compared to their pre-treatment levels. Follow-up of the three HCC did not show evidence of tumor recurrence.

Conclusions

The SOF/DCV combination ± ribavirin is an effective and safe regimen for patients with CHC induced cirrhosis with mild decompensation. Treatment did not increase the risk of HCC recurrence.
Cost-effectiveness of psychosocial assessment for individuals who present to hospital following self-harm in England: A model-based retrospective analysis
Authors: McDaid David , Park A-La , Tsiachristas Apostolos , Brand Fiona , Casey Deborah , Clements Caroline , Geulayov Galit , Kapur Nav , Ness Jennifer , Waters Keith , Hawton Keith
Published: January 2022

Background

Guidance in England recommends psychosocial assessment when presenting to hospital following self-harm but adherence is variable. There is some evidence suggesting that psychosocial assessment is associated with lower risk of subsequent presentation to hospital for self-harm, but the potential cost-effectiveness of psychosocial assessment for hospital-presenting self-harm is unknown.

Methods

A three-state four-cycle Markov model was used to assess cost-effectiveness of psychosocial assessment after self-harm compared with no assessment over 2 years. Data on risk of subsequent self-harm and hospital costs of treating self-harm were drawn from the Multicentre Study of Self-Harm in England, while estimates of effectiveness of psychosocial assessment on risk of self-harm, quality of life, and other costs were drawn from literature. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) for cost per Quality Adjusted Life Year (QALY) gained were estimated. Parameter uncertainty was addressed in univariate and probabilistic sensitivity analyses.

Results

Cost per QALY gained from psychosocial assessment was £10,962 (95% uncertainty interval [UI] £15,538–£9,219) from the National Health Service (NHS) perspective and £9,980 (95% UI £14,538–£6,938) from the societal perspective. Results were generally robust to changes in model assumptions. The probability of the ICER being below £20,000 per QALY gained was 78%, rising to 91% with a £30,000 threshold.

Conclusions

Psychosocial assessment as implemented in the English NHS is likely to be cost-effective. This evidence could support adherence to NICE guidelines. However, further evidence is needed about the precise impacts of psychosocial assessment on self-harm repetition and costs to individuals and their families beyond immediate hospital stay.
Genetically inducible and reversible zebrafish model of systemic inflammation
Authors: Lanham Kevin A. , Nedden Megan L. , Wise Virginia E. , Taylor Michael R.
Published: January 2022

The inflammatory response is a vital defense mechanism against trauma and pathogen induced damage, but equally important is its appropriate resolution. In some instances of severe trauma or sustained infection, inappropriate and persistent activation of the immune response can occur, resulting in a dangerous systemic inflammatory response. Untreated, this systemic inflammatory response can lead to tissue damage, organ shutdown, and death. Replicating this condition in tractable model organisms can provide insight into the mechanisms involved in the induction, maintenance, and resolution of inflammation. To that end, we developed a non-invasive, inducible, and reversible model of systemic inflammation in zebrafish. Using the Gal4-EcR/UAS system activated by the ecdysone analog tebufenozide, we generated transgenic zebrafish that allow for chemically induced, ubiquitous secretion of the mature form of zebrafish interleukin-1β (Il-1βmat) in both larval and adult developmental stages. To ensure a robust immune response, we attached a strong signal peptide from the Gaussia princeps luciferase enzyme to promote active secretion of the cytokine. We observe a dose-dependent inflammatory response involving neutrophil expansion accompanied by tissue damage and reduced survival. Washout of tebufenozide permits inflammation resolution. We also establish the utility of this model for the identification of small molecule anti-inflammatory compounds by treatment with the immunosuppressant rapamycin. Taken together, these features make this model a valuable new tool that can aid in identifying potential new therapies while broadening our understanding of systemic inflammation, its impact on the immune system, and its resolution.
Facile Synthesis of BiVO4 Nanorods by a Template Method
Authors: Jia Yulong , Yin Guoliang , Zhang Chenyang , Lin Yinhe , Ma Ying
Published: January 2022

BiVO4 nanorods are synthesized by using V2O5 nanorods as growth template and vanadium source. The outward diffusion of V2O5 nanorods and ion-exchange reaction between V2O5 and Bi(NO3)3 guarantee the fabrication of uniform BiVO4 nanorods. The morphology, crystal phase, and chemical states of samples are characterized. The result indicates that the V2O5 nanorods have a critical effect on the preparation of BiVO4 nanorods.
Catalytic Activity Comparison of Gold Nanoparticles in Annealed and Quenched Spherical Polyelectrolyte Brushes
Authors: Li Lingshan , Li Min , Qiu Zhiqiang , Chen Kaimin , Xu Yisheng , Guo Xuhong , Wang Jie
Published: January 2022

Two kinds of cationic spherical polyelectrolyte brushes (SPB), quenched poly(methacryloxyethyltrimethyl ammonium chloride) brush and annealed poly(2-aminoethyl methacrylate hydrochloride) brush with polystyrene cores (PS-PMETAC and PS-PAEMH), were synthesized by photo-emulsion polymerization. The small and uniform gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) were successfully immobilized in these two SPBs. The chain layer extension of the quenched SPB loaded with AuNPs (SPB-Au) was more complete than that of the annealed SPB-Au in alkaline system. Compared the catalysis of the prepared AuNPs onto the two SPBs, it was found that the catalytic activity of AuNPs in quenched SPB is higher than that in annealed SPB.
In Situ Generation of Catalytically Active Cu0 Species Derived from Cu-Al Layered Double Hydroxides for Acceptorless Alcohol Dehydrogenation
Authors: Kurniawan Enggah , Hara Takayoshi , Permana Yessi , Ichikuni Nobuyuki , Shimazu Shogo
Published: January 2022

A CuO-CuAl2O4 nanocomposite (CuAl NC) synthesized by high temperature calcination of Cu-Al layered double hydroxides (CuAl LDHs) acted as an effective heterogeneous catalyst for acceptorless dehydrogenation of various alcohols. The catalytically active Cu0 species was formed by in situ reduction with alcohol. The catalytic activity strongly depended on the Cu/Al ratio in preparation and calcination temperature. The synthesized catalyst was reusable without loss of its high activity and selectivity.
Novel Environmentally Friendly Blue Pigments Based on Na4Cu(PO4)2
Authors: Shirai Hiroaki , Tamura Shinji , Imanaka Nobuhito
Published: January 2022

Novel environmentally friendly blue pigments, Na4Cu1−xMgx(PO4)2 (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.25), were synthesized. By doping Mg2+ with lower electronegativity into Cu2+ sites, the crystal lattice was distorted, which strongly affects the charge transfer from O2− to Cu2+ and the d–d transition of Cu2+. In the series of Na4Cu1−xMgx(PO4)2, the Na4Cu0.85Mg0.15(PO4)2 solid showed a vivid blue hue with a blueness value (−b*) of 38.2 in the CIE L*a*b* system.
Desafios da gestão regionalizada no Sistema Único de Saúde
Authors: Aleluia Ítalo Ricardo Santos , Medina Maria Guadalupe , Vilasbôas Ana Luiza Queiroz
Published: January 2022

O objetivo deste ensaio é discutir os principais desafios da gestão regionalizada no Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS). Realizou-se uma revisão integrativa da literatura nas bases de dados da BVS, Lilacs e SciELO, com base nos seguintes descritores: “regionalização/regionalization”, “Sistema Único de Saúde/Unified Health System”, “Brasil/Brazil” e “federalismo/federalism”. Incluíram-se 54 artigos, cinco teses de doutorado, doze capítulos de livros e uma dissertação de mestrado, publicados entre 2006 e 2018, que tratavam da política de regionalização do SUS. Entre os principais desafios da regionalização da saúde, destacaram-se a organização federativa tripartite do sistema que dificulta institucionalizar acordos e cooperações interfederativas; as limitações fiscais em cenários de crise financeira de municípios e estados, bem como as desigualdades regionais, que influenciam a distribuição de serviços de saúde, pessoal e tecnologias; os equívocos de demarcação regional, que limitam a coordenação estadual dos municípios; as relações entre atores sociais e entes federativos que conformam uma trama social com poderes desigualmente distribuídos; as mudanças político-administrativas, que tendem a fragilizar as pactuações e o planejamento regional; e as relações público-privadas, muito influentes nas decisões regionais, que colaboram para a organização de um sistema de saúde centrado nos interesses de mercado. A política de regionalização do SUS opera num ciclo político instável e impredizível. Os estudos da revisão indicam desafios para institucionalizar uma política regional que atenda à diversidade das regiões de saúde. Sugerem-se novas investigações sobre a política de regionalização do SUS, especialmente em cenários de fronteiras entre países e estados.
Συσχέτιση των επιπέδων του αυξητικού παράγοντα ινοβλαστών 21 στον ορό με το μεταβολικό ρυθμό ηρεμίας σε παιδιά και εφήβους με θυρεοειδίτιδα Hashimoto
Authors: Δρογγίτης Παύλος
Published: January 2022

Σκοπός: Ο αυξητικός παράγοντας των ινοβλαστών 21 (FGF-21) είναι μια πολύπλοκη ορμόνη που μοιράζεται κοινούς τόπους δράσεις με τις θυρεοειδικές ορμόνες. Σκοπός της παρούσας μελέτης ήταν να διερευνήσει πιθανή συσχέτιση των επιπέδων FGF-21 με τον μεταβολικό ρυθμό ηρεμίας (RMR) και τη θεραπεία με λεβοθυροξίνη (LT4) σε παιδιά και εφήβους με θυρεοειδίτιδα Hashimoto. Υλικό και μέθοδος: Μελετήθηκαν 60 νέοι με χρόνια αυτοάνοση θυρεοειδίτιδα (AIT) (30 με υποκλινικό υποθυρεοειδισμό, 30 με ευθυρεοειδισμό) και 30 υγιή άτομα σταθμισμένα για ηλικία και φύλο (5-18 ετών). Σε όλους τους συμμετέχοντες καταγράφηκαν: σωματομετρικά, βιοχημικοί δείκτες και επίπεδα RMR, ενώ οι συγκεντρώσεις του FGF-21 στο ορό προσδιορίστηκαν στην ομάδα ελέγχου και στην ομάδα υποκλινικό υποθυρεοειδισμό πριν και 6 μήνες μετά τη θεραπεία με LT4. Αποτελέσματα: Τα επίπεδα του FGF-21 ήταν χαμηλότερα στα άτομα με υποκλινικό υποθυρεοειδισμό σε σύγκριση με την ομάδα ελέγχου αλλά η διαφορά δεν ήταν στατιστικώς σημαντική, πριν την έναρξη της θεραπείας με LT4 (p>0,05). Μετά την θεραπεία με LT4 για 6 μήνες παρατηρήθηκε αύξηση των επιπέδων FGF-21 στον ορό των ατόμων με υποκλινικό υποθυρεοειδισμό, ωστόσο η αύξηση δεν ήταν στατιστικώς σημαντική (p>0,05). Η ελεύθερη θυροξίνη συσχετίστηκε καλά με τα επίπεδα του FGF-21 (r=0.399, p<0.01). Η εξάμηνη θεραπεία με LT4 δε φάνηκε να επηρεάζει σημαντικά το RMR και το λιπιδαιμικό, γλυκαιμικό και ηπατικό προφίλ των ασθενών με υποκλινικό υποθυρεοειδισμό. Καταγράφηκε σημαντική αύξηση της λιπώδους και άλιπης μάζας σώματος μετά τη θεραπεία με LT4, ανεξάρτητα από τα επίπεδα του FGF-21 στον ορό. Συμπεράσματα: Σε νέους με υποκλινικό υποθυρεοειδισμό λόγω της θυρεοειδίτιδας Hashimoto, τα επίπεδα FGF-21 στον ορό δεν είναι σημαντικά χαμηλότερα σε σύγκριση με τους υγιείς συνομηλίκους τους, ενώ αυξάνουν μετά τη θεραπεία με LT4 όχι όμως σε στατιστικά σημαντικό επίπεδο. Επιπλέον απαιτούνται μελέτες σε μεγαλύτερο αριθμό νέων ασθενών με σοβαρό υποθυρεοειδισμό προκειμένου να επιβεβαιωθούν τα ερευνητικά μας αποτελέσματα.
Υπολογιστική μοντελοποίηση βιοχημικών δικτύων
Authors: Ρίτης Δημήτριος
Published: January 2022

Η μελέτη των βιολογικών λειτουργιών και συστημάτων έχει γνωρίσει μεγάλη ανάπτυξη τα τελευταία χρόνια και έχει οδηγήσει σε πολλές ανακαλύψεις στον τομέα της Βιολογίας, καθώς και στην χρήση των επιτευγμάτων που προέκυψαν από αυτήν και σε άλλους επιστημονικούς τομείς (με ένα πολύ γνωστό παράδειγμα την μελέτη για την λειτουργία των νευρωνικών συνάψεων και την σύνδεση της λειτουργίας αυτής με την τεχνική των νευρωνικών δικτύων στον τομέα της τεχνικής νοημοσύνης). Η εργασία αυτή είναι μια προσπάθεια προς την αντίθετη κατεύθυνση, δηλαδή η μελέτη των αρχών της επιστήμης των υπολογιστών και της σύνδεσης που αυτές μπορεί να έχουν με την βιολογία. Πιο συγκεκριμένα, σκοπός σε αυτή την εργασία είναι παρουσίαση ενός ιεραρχικά δομημένου προτύπου με το οποίο είναι δυνατή η κατασκευή μοντέλων/αναλόγων βιολογικών ενζυματικών αντιδράσεων τα οποία λειτουργούν τρόπο παρόμοιο με τις σύγχρονες ηλεκτρονικές συσκευές. Το πρότυπο που παρουσιάζεται χρησιμοποιείται και για την κατασκευή σύνθετων ηλεκτρονικών συσκευών, όπως την ηλεκτρική κλειδαριά του Shannon, και στο τέλος χρησιμοποιείται για την κατασκευή υπολογιστικών αυτομάτων, π.χ. μηχανών πεπερασμένων καταστάσεων (finite state machines). Οι τελευταίες είναι απλές προγραμματιζόμενες συσκευές, πράγμα που σημαίνει ότι η δομή που παρουσιάζεται έχει την δυνατότητα κατασκευής ηλεκτρονικών υπολογιστών με βάση βιολογικά ανάλογα.
Αξιολόγηση της στένωσης του στελέχους της αριστερής στεφανιαίας αρτηρίας με οπτική συνεκτική τομογραφία (FD-OCT) και με κλασματική στεφανιαία εφεδρεία (FFR)
Authors: Βλάντ Ιωάννα-Ντέλια
Published: January 2022

Σκοπός της μελέτης: Ο σκοπός της παρούσας μελέτης είναι η αξιολόγηση της ασφάλειας και αποτελεσματικότητας της οπτικής συνεκτικής τομογραφίας (FD-OCT) για την εκτίμηση της βαρύτητας της νόσου του στελέχους της αριστερής στεφανιαίας αρτηρίας (LM), όπως αυτή καθορίζεται από τη μέτρηση της κλασματικής στεφανιαίας εφεδρείας (FFR) και η σύγκριση της ασφάλειας και αποτελεσματικότητας της νέας μεθόδου για την εκτίμηση της βαρύτητας της νόσου του στελέχους σε διαβητικούς και μη διαβητικούς ασθενείς.Μέθοδος και αποτελέσματα: Εκατό έναν ασθενείς με νόσος στελέχους ( στένωση 20-70% αγγειογραφικά) υποβλήθηκαν σε εκτίμηση της λειτουργικής βαρύτητας της νόσου με μέτρηση του FFR και απεικόνηση του στελέχους με FD-OCT. Η ανάλυση των εικόνωντης FD-OCT περιελάμβανε τις εξής μετρήσεις στο στέλεχος: επιφάνειααναφοράς του αυλού (RLA), διάμετρος αναφοράς του αυλού (RLD), ελάχιστηεπιφάνεια του αυλού (MLA), ελάχιστη διάμετρος του αυλού (MLD), %στένωση της επιφάνεια του αυλού (% AS), % στένωση της διαμέτρου τουαυλού (% DS). Η ανάλυση των βλαβών του στελέχους με την FD-OCT ήτανεφικτή σε 88/101 (87.1%) ασθενείς. Οι 39/88 (44.3%) ασθενείς είχαν τιμήFFR ≤ 0.80, κατά την μέγιστη υπεραιμία. Οι τιμές της FFR είχαν καλήσυσχέτιση με τους παράμετρούς του αυλού του στελέχους μετρούμενους απότην FD-OCT. Η MLA ≤5.38mm² προβλέπει τιμή FFR<0.80 με ευαισθησία 82%και ειδικότητα 81%, ακολουθούμενη από την MLD <2.43mm με ευαισθησία77% και ειδικότητα 72% και την %AS >60% με ευαισθησία 72% και ειδικότητα72%. Στους διαβητικούς η MLA≤5.49mm² προβλέπει τιμή FFR≤0.80 μεευαισθησία 87.5% και ειδικότητα 100% ενώ στους μη διαβητικούς ηMLA≤5.38mm² προβλέπει τιμή FFR≤0.80 με ευαισθησία 82% και ειδικότητα82%.ΣυμπεράσματαΗ FD-OCT είναι μία εφικτή και ασφαλής μέθοδος για την αξιολόγηση τηςνόσου του στελέχους. Η MLA ≤5.38mm² μετρούμενη με FD-OCT προβλέπειέντονα την λειτουργική βαρύτητα της βλάβης του στελέχους. Δεν υπάρχειστατιστικά σημαντική διαφορά μεταξύ των διαβητικών και μη διαβητικώνασθενών.
Οι απαρχές της Αλβανικής παιδικής λογοτεχνίας έως σήμερα
Authors: Κουτσού Έλσα
Published: January 2022

Σκοπός της παρούσας μελέτης είναι η διερεύνηση της ανάπτυξης της παιδικής λογοτεχνίας, από τις απαρχές της έως σήμερα, στην Αλβανία. Μελετώνται οι περίοδοι ανάπτυξης, όπως αποτυπώνονται στην αλβανική και ξένη βιβλιογραφία και οι κύριοι εκπρόσωποι κάθε εποχής. Παράλληλα γίνεται μνεία στα σημαντικότερα ιστορικά και κοινωνικοοικονομικά γεγονότα που στιγμάτισαν την εκάστοτε περίοδο, καθώς και στον αντίκτυπο που αυτά είχαν στην λογοτεχνική δημιουργία της εποχής. Πιο συγκεκριμένα, αρχής γενομένης με τα πρώτα δείγματα παιδικής λογοτεχνίας αντλούνται από την λαϊκή παράδοση και έπονται τα πρώτα δείγματα γραπτής λογοτεχνίας με διδακτικού περιεχομένου έργα, που χρονολογούνται μεταξύ 16ου-18ου αιώνα. Στην συνέχεια παρουσιάζεται η περίοδος του Ρομαντισμού και ταυτόχρονα για την Αλβανία η περίοδος της Αναγέννησης και οι προσπάθειες συγκρότησης του Αλβανικού Κράτους ( τέλη 18ου – αρχές 20ου αιώνα). Ακολουθούν η μελέτη της γενιάς των συγγραφέων του 30΄ καθώς και η επιρροή του Δεύτερου Παγκόσμιου Πολέμου (1930 – 1945). Σημαντική περίοδος τόσο πολιτικά όσο και κοινωνικά, κατά συνέπεια και λογοτεχνικά, είναι η περίοδος του σοσιαλιστικού ρεαλισμούς και η ηγεσία του Ενβέρ Χότζα (1945 – 1960 και 1960-2010). Τέλος παρουσιάζεται η ανάπτυξη και εξέλιξη της αλβανικής παιδικής λογοτεχνίας την περίοδο της τελευταίας δεκαετίας. Στο σημείο αυτό δεν θα μπορούσε να παραληφθεί η προσπάθεια δημιουργίας παιδικής λογοτεχνίας από τους συγγραφείς και λόγιους της Εθνικής Ελληνικής Μειονότητας της Αλβανίας. Σύμφωνα με τα αποτελέσματα της έρευνας προκύπτει ότι η αλβανική παιδική λογοτεχνία γνωρίζει μια σοβαρή ωρίμανση αναφορικά με το περιεχόμενο και τη δομή των έργων από το 1960 και έπειτα. Οι έως τότε δημιουργίες ήταν απόρροια είτε εκπαιδευτικών αναγκών, είτε εθνικο-απελευθερωτικού και πολιτικού περιεχομένου λόγω των συνεχόμενων ιστορικών αναταραχών. Η σύγχρονη αλβανική παιδική λογοτεχνία υιοθετεί παγκόσμια πρότυπα ανάπτυξης και έχει ως επίκεντρο το ίδιο το παιδί, τις ψυχο-συναισθηματικές και αναπτυξιακές ανάγκες του. Ωστόσο, παρατηρείται έντονα ότι την τελευταία δεκαετία υπάρχει αισθητή μείωση στον αριθμό των συγγραφέων παιδικής λογοτεχνίας. Τα αίτια της μείωσης αυτής, σύμφωνα με την αλβανική βιβλιογραφία, άπτονται οικονομικών ζητημάτων, καθώς το κόστος έκδοσης είναι πολύ μεγάλο για τα αλβανικά δεδομένα. Παράλληλα οι εκπρόσωποι της Εθνικής Ελληνικής Μειονότητας κατέβαλλαν φιλότιμες προσπάθειες λογοτεχνικής δημιουργίας ωστόσο δεν μπορεί να χαρακτηριστεί αυτούσια παιδική λογοτεχνία, πάραυτα αξιοποιείται έως και σήμερα για διδακτικούς λόγους στα σχολεία της Μειονότητας.
Groundwater modelling of a coastal semi-arid hydrogeological system
Authors: Πουλιάρης Χρήστος
Published: January 2022

Η παρούσα μελέτη αφορούσε την ανάπτυξη ενός μοντέλου ροής υπόγειων υδάτων για την αξιολόγηση διαφορετικών σεναρίων MAR στην παράκτια πεδιάδα του Λαυρίου, Ελλάδα. Στα αρχικά στάδια της μελέτης, πραγματοποιήθηκε αναγνώριση των κύριων στοιχείων του υδρολογικού κύκλου και της αλληλεπίδρασής τους, χρησιμοποιώντας εκτεταμένη βιβλιογραφική ανασκόπηση και μια σειρά δραστηριοτήτων στο πεδίο. Προσδιορίστηκαν οι κύριες υδρολογικές διεργασίες που λαμβάνουν χώρα και συλλέχθηκαν δεδομένα που θα χρησιμοποιηθούν αργότερα στην κατασκευή του μοντέλου ροής υπόγειων υδάτων. Στη συνέχεια κατασκευάστηκε μοντέλο ροής υπόγειων υδάτων για το παράκτιο υδροσύστημα του Λαυρίου. Τα δεδομένα που συλλέχθηκαν στο προηγούμενο βήμα χρησιμοποιήθηκαν ως δεδομένα εισόδου. Πρωταρχικός στόχος του μοντέλου ήταν μια ποιοτική, τουλάχιστον, εκτίμηση της δυναμικής μεταξύ των δύο συστημάτων υδροφορέων που υπάρχουν στην περιοχή και της παρακείμενης θάλασσας. Η ανάλυση ευαισθησίας του μοντέλου έγινε διεξοδικά και οδήγησε στην διαδικασία εκτίμησης παραμέτρων. Στο τελευταίο βήμα, κατασκευάστηκε ένα μοντέλο που επικεντρώθηκε στον καρστικό υδροφορέα. Στο προαναφερθέν μοντέλο συλλέχθηκαν επιπλέον δεδομένα που χαρακτηρίζουν το καρστικό σύστημα του Λαυρίου. Πραγματοποιήθηκε ανάλυση ευαισθησίας των επί μέρους τμημάτων των διαφορετικών συστατικών του υδροφόρου ορίζοντα προκειμένου να εντοπιστούν οι παράμετροι του μοντέλου που παίζουν σημαντικό ρόλο στα αποτελέσματά του. Στόχος του μοντέλου ήταν να εντοπίστουν αυτές οι βασικές παράμετροι και να προταθεί μια νέα μεθοδολογία για τη λήψη τέτοιων δεδομένων. Η εργασία έγινε στα πλαίσια του έργου MARSOL FP7 (Managed Aquifer Recharge as SOLution to Water Scarcity and Dought, Grant No. 619120, 2013-2016).
Evaluation of the effectiveness of combination ultrasound treatment and basic care in the healing of pressure ulcers: A Systematic Review
Authors: Sotnikova Christina , Bibou Polyxeni , Fasoi Georgia , Toylia Georgia , Kelesi Martha
Published: January 2022

Introduction: When the pressure ulcer does not respond to established standard care, then international guidelines recommend the use of alternative forms of therapy such as electrical stimulation, negative pressure wound treatment, ultraviolet radiation, electromagnetic field therapy or ultrasound. Low and high frequency ultrasound is used to treat various types of chronic ulcers including venous, diabetic and pressure ulcers.Aim: The aim of the present systematic review was to investigate the effectiveness of ultrasound in promoting the healing of pressure ulcers.Method and Material: A systematic review was carried out in the electronic databases PubMed and Cochrane Library. Inclusion criteria were primary and secondary studies, whose sample were patients with pressure ulcers, regardless of age, published in English language of the last decade (2008-2018).Results: The review revealed 5 articles that met the inclusion criteria. The results of these studies showed an advantage in the use of ultrasound for the treatment of pressure ulcers in relation to the standard wound care only.Conclusions: The use of ultrasound seems to be a process which improves and accelerates the healing of pressure ulcers. The method of low and high frequency ultrasound in the treatment of chronic wounds, presents many advantages. It appears to be easy to use, painless, less stressful and better accepted by patients.
Quality of information in news media reports about the effects of health interventions: Systematic review and meta-analyses
Authors: Oxman Matt , Larun Lillebeth , Pérez Gaxiola Giordano , Alsaid Dima , Qasim Anila , Rose Christopher James , Bischoff Karin , Oxman Andrew David
Published: January 2022

Background

Many studies have assessed the quality of news reports about the effects of health interventions, but there has been no systematic review of such studies or meta-analysis of their results. We aimed to fill this gap (PROSPERO ID: CRD42018095032).

Methods

We included studies that used at least one explicit, prespecified and generic criterion to assess the quality of news reports in print, broadcast, or online news media, and specified the sampling frame, and the selection criteria and technique. We assessed criteria individually for inclusion in the meta-analyses, excluding ineligible criteria and criteria with inadequately reported results. We mapped and grouped criteria to facilitate evidence synthesis. Where possible, we extracted the proportion of news reports meeting the included criterion. We performed meta-analyses using a random effects model to estimate such proportions for individual criteria and some criteria groups, and to characterise heterogeneity across studies. 

Results

We included 44 primary studies in the review, and 18 studies and 108 quality criteria in the meta-analyses. Many news reports gave an unbalanced and oversimplified picture of the potential consequences of interventions. A limited number mention or adequately address conflicts of interest (22%; 95% CI 7%-49%) (low certainty), alternative interventions (36%; 95% CI 26%-47%) (moderate certainty), potential harms (40%; 95% CI 23%-61%) (low certainty), or costs (18%; 95% CI 12%-28%) (moderate certainty), or quantify effects (53%; 95% CI 36%-69%) (low certainty) or report absolute effects (17%; 95% CI 4%-49%) (low certainty). 

Discussion

There is room for improving health news, but it is logically more important to improve the public’s ability to critically appraise health information and make judgements for themselves.
TRAIT2D: a Software for Quantitative Analysis of Single Particle Diffusion Data
Authors: Reina Francesco , Wigg John M.A. , Dmitrieva Mariia , Vogler Bela , Lefebvre Joël , Rittscher Jens , Eggeling Christian
Published: January 2022

Single particle tracking (SPT) is one of the most widely used tools in optical microscopy to evaluate particle mobility in a variety of situations, including cellular and model membrane dynamics. Recent technological developments, such as Interferometric Scattering microscopy, have allowed recording of long, uninterrupted single particle trajectories at kilohertz framerates. The resulting data, where particles are continuously detected and do not displace much between observations, thereby do not require complex linking algorithms. Moreover, while these measurements offer more details into the short-term diffusion behaviour of the tracked particles, they are also subject to the influence of localisation uncertainties, which are often underestimated by conventional analysis pipelines. we thus developed a Python library, under the name of TRAIT2D (Tracking Analysis Toolbox – 2D version), in order to track particle diffusion at high sampling rates, and analyse the resulting trajectories with an innovative approach. The data analysis pipeline introduced is more localisation-uncertainty aware, and also selects the most appropriate diffusion model for the data provided on a statistical basis. A trajectory simulation platform also allows the user to handily generate trajectories and even synthetic time-lapses to test alternative tracking algorithms and data analysis approaches. A high degree of customisation for the analysis pipeline, for example with the introduction of different diffusion modes, is possible from the source code. Finally, the presence of graphical user interfaces lowers the access barrier for users with little to no programming experience.
SPARClink: an interactive tool to visualize the impact of the SPARC program
Authors: Soundarajan Sanjay , Kuruppu Sachira , Singh Ashutosh , Kim Jongchan , Achalla Monalisa
Published: January 2022

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) Stimulating Peripheral Activity to Relieve Conditions (SPARC) program seeks to accelerate the development of therapeutic devices that modulate electrical activity in nerves to improve organ function. SPARC-funded researchers are generating rich datasets from neuromodulation research that are curated and shared according to FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable) guidelines and are accessible to the public on the SPARC data portal. Keeping track of the utilization of these datasets within the larger research community is a feature that will benefit data-generating researchers in showcasing the impact of their SPARC outcomes. This will also allow the SPARC program to display the impact of the FAIR data curation and sharing practices that have been implemented. This manuscript provides the methods and outcomes of SPARClink, our web tool for visualizing the impact of SPARC, which won the Second prize at the 2021 SPARC FAIR Codeathon. With SPARClink, we built a system that automatically and continuously finds new published SPARC scientific outputs (datasets, publications, protocols) and the external resources referring to them. SPARC datasets and protocols are queried using publicly accessible REST application programming interfaces (APIs, provided by Pennsieve and Protocols.io) and stored in a publicly accessible database. Citation information for these resources is retrieved using the NIH reporter API and National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) Entrez system. A novel knowledge graph-based structure was created to visualize the results of these queries and showcase the impact that the FAIR data principles can have on the research landscape when they are adopted by a consortium.
A case series of ocular involvement in bullous pemphigoid: clinical features, management, and outcomes
Authors: Kate Anahita , Shanbhag Swapna , Donthineni Pragnya Rao , Basu Sayan
Published: January 2022

Ocular involvement in cases of bullous pemphigoid is rare and when present, the signs are usually subtle and in the form of fine tarsal scarring and dry eye disease. The current report aims to describe the clinical features and management protocols in a series of cases with aggressive ocular manifestations at presentation.

All cases of bullous pemphigoid seen between 2017 and 2020 were included in this retrospective case series. Data regarding the clinical features, treatment administered, and outcomes was collected.

Five cases (n=10 eyes) of bullous pemphigoid disease with ocular involvement were included. All eyes had significant cicatricial conjunctival changes in the form of symblephara, inferior forniceal shortening, and tarsal conjunctival scarring. Conjunctival granulomas were present in 3/10 eyes. Corneal involvement in the form of punctate keratitis was present in all eyes while 4/10 eyes had an epithelial defect as well. The management of these cases involved topical therapy with corticosteroids and lubricants (n=10 eyes) while pulse doses of intravenous methyl prednisolone were administered in 5/5 cases. Pulse intravenous cyclophosphamide was supplemented in 2/5 cases. Adequate control of the disease was noted in 3/5 cases while one case had a recalcitrant form of the disease and developed a dermalised ocular surface in both eyes. The last patient was lost to follow up during the course of therapy.

Bullous pemphigoid can present with an aggressive form of cicatrizing conjunctivitis similar to other variants of autoimmune blistering disorders and must be considered as a differential in cases presenting with ocular cicatricial disease. Long-term intensive immunosuppression is required for the management of these cases to preserve the visual function and the integrity of the globe.