bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Circulating tumor cells in precision oncology: clinical applications in liquid biopsy and 3D organoid model
Authors: Yang Chang , Xia Bai-Rong , Jin Wei-Lin , Lou Ge
Published: December 2019

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are a rare subset of cells found in the blood of patients with solid tumors, which function as a seed for metastases. Cancer cells metastasize through the bloodstream either as single migratory CTCs or as multicellular groupings—CTC clusters. The CTCs preserve primary tumor heterogeneity and mimic tumor properties, and may be considered as clinical biomarker, preclinical model, and therapeutic target. The potential clinical application of CTCs is being a component of liquid biopsy. CTCs are also good candidates for generating preclinical models, especially 3D organoid cultures, which could be applied in drug screening, disease modeling, genome editing, tumor immunity, and organoid biobanks. In this review, we summarize current knowledge on the value and promise of evolving CTC technologies and highlight cutting-edge research on CTCs in liquid biopsy, tumor metastasis, and organoid preclinical models. The study of CTCs offers broad pathways to develop new biomarkers for tumor patient diagnosis, prognosis, and response to therapy, as well as translational models accelerating oncologic drug development.
Markers of sulfadoxine–pyrimethamine resistance in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo; implications for malaria chemoprevention
Authors: van Lenthe Marit , van der Meulen Renske , Lassovski Maryvonne , Ouabo Adelaide , Bakula Edwige , Badio Colette , Cibenda Deogratias , Okell Lucy , Piriou Erwan , Grignard Lynn , Lanke Kjerstin , Rao Bhargavi , Bousema Teun , Roper Cally
Published: December 2019

Background

Sulfadoxine–pyrimethamine (SP) is a cornerstone of malaria chemoprophylaxis and is considered for programmes in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). However, SP efficacy is threatened by drug resistance, that is conferred by mutations in the dhfr and dhps genes. The World Health Organization has specified that intermittent preventive treatment for infants (IPTi) with SP should be implemented only if the prevalence of the dhps K540E mutation is under 50%. There are limited current data on the prevalence of resistance-conferring mutations available from Eastern DRC. The current study aimed to address this knowledge gap.

Methods

Dried blood-spot samples were collected from clinically suspected malaria patients [outpatient department (OPD)] and pregnant women attending antenatal care (ANC) in four sites in North and South Kivu, DRC. Quantitative PCR (qPCR) was performed on samples from individuals with positive and with negative rapid diagnostic test (RDT) results. Dhps K450E and A581G and dhfr I164L were assessed by nested PCR followed by allele-specific primer extension and detection by multiplex bead-based assays.

Results

Across populations, Plasmodium falciparum parasite prevalence was 47.9% (1160/2421) by RDT and 71.7 (1763/2421) by qPCR. Median parasite density measured by qPCR in RDT-negative qPCR-positive samples was very low with a median of 2.3 parasites/µL (IQR 0.5–25.2). Resistance genotyping was successfully performed in RDT-positive samples and RDT-negative/qPCR-positive samples with success rates of 86.2% (937/1086) and 55.5% (361/651), respectively. The presence of dhps K540E was high across sites (50.3–87.9%), with strong evidence for differences between sites (p < 0.001). Dhps A581G mutants were less prevalent (12.7–47.2%). The dhfr I164L mutation was found in one sample.

Conclusions

The prevalence of the SP resistance marker dhps K540E exceeds 50% in all four study sites in North and South Kivu, DRC. K540E mutations regularly co-occurred with mutations in dhps A581G but not with the dhfr I164L mutation. The current results do not support implementation of IPTi with SP in the study area.
Moderate maternal separation mitigates the altered synaptic transmission and neuronal activation in amygdala by chronic stress in adult mice
Authors: Qin Xia , He Ye , Wang Na , Zou Jia-Xin , Zhang Yong-Mei , Cao Jun-Li , Pan Bing-Xing , Zhang Wen-Hua
Published: December 2019

Exposure to moderate level of stress during the perinatal period helps the organisms to cope well with stressful events in their later life, an effect known as stress inoculation. Amygdala is one of the kernel brain regions mediating stress-coping in the brain. However, little is known about whether early life stress may affect amygdala to have its inoculative effect. Here, we observed that moderate maternal separation (MS) from postnatal day 3 to day 21 (D3–21, 1 h per day) significantly alleviated the increased anxiety-like behavior induced by chronic social defeat stress (CSDS) in adulthood, suggesting an obvious inoculative effect of moderate MS. Further studies revealed that MS prevented CSDS-evoked augmentation of glutamatergic transmission onto principal neurons (PNs) in the basolateral amygdala (BLA) by inhibiting presynaptic glutamate release. By contrast, it did not affect GABAergic transmission in BLA PNs, as indicated by unaltered frequency and amplitude of miniature inhibitory postsynaptic currents (mIPSCs). Moreover, the CSDS-induced increase of neuronal excitability was also mitigated by MS in BLA PNs. In conclusion, our results suggest that MS may have its inoculative effect through alleviating the influences of later life stress on the glutamatergic transmission and neuronal activity in amygdala neurons.
Correction to: Role of mitochondria and cardiolipins in growth inhibition of breast cancer cells by retinoic acid
Authors: Terao Mineko , Goracci Laura , Celestini Valentina , Kurosaki Mami , Bolis Marco , Di Veroli Alessandra , Vallerga Arianna , Fratelli Maddalena , Lupi Monica , Corbelli Alessandro , Fiordaliso Fabio , Gianni Maurizio , Paroni Gabriela , Zanetti Adriana , Cruciani Gabriele , Garattini Enrico
Published: December 2019

In the original publication of this article [1], the images of Figs. 4 and 5 were exchanged and the legends of the two figures did not correspond due to a typesetting error.
Whole genome DNA sequencing provides an atlas of somatic mutagenesis in healthy human cells and identifies a tumor-prone cell type
Authors: Franco Irene , Helgadottir Hafdis T. , Moggio Aldo , Larsson Malin , Vrtačnik Peter , Johansson Anna , Norgren Nina , Lundin Pär , Mas-Ponte David , Nordström Johan , Lundgren Torbjörn , Stenvinkel Peter , Wennberg Lars , Supek Fran , Eriksson Maria
Published: December 2019

Background

The lifelong accumulation of somatic mutations underlies age-related phenotypes and cancer. Mutagenic forces are thought to shape the genome of aging cells in a tissue-specific way. Whole genome analyses of somatic mutation patterns, based on both types and genomic distribution of variants, can shed light on specific processes active in different human tissues and their effect on the transition to cancer.

Results

To analyze somatic mutation patterns, we compile a comprehensive genetic atlas of somatic mutations in healthy human cells. High-confidence variants are obtained from newly generated and publicly available whole genome DNA sequencing data from single non-cancer cells, clonally expanded in vitro. To enable a well-controlled comparison of different cell types, we obtain single genome data (92% mean coverage) from multi-organ biopsies from the same donors. These data show multiple cell types that are protected from mutagens and display a stereotyped mutation profile, despite their origin from different tissues. Conversely, the same tissue harbors cells with distinct mutation profiles associated to different differentiation states. Analyses of mutation rate in the coding and non-coding portions of the genome identify a cell type bearing a unique mutation pattern characterized by mutation enrichment in active chromatin, regulatory, and transcribed regions.

Conclusions

Our analysis of normal cells from healthy donors identifies a somatic mutation landscape that enhances the risk of tumor transformation in a specific cell population from the kidney proximal tubule. This unique pattern is characterized by high rate of mutation accumulation during adult life and specific targeting of expressed genes and regulatory regions.
Elucidating vaginal fistulas on CT and MRI
Authors: Tonolini Massimo
Published: December 2019

Vaginal fistulas (VF) represent abnormal communications between the vagina and either the distal portion of the digestive system or the lower urinary tract, but lack an accepted classification and standardised terminology. Regardless of the underlying cause, these uncommon disorders result in profound physical, psychological, sexual and social distress to the patients.

Since diagnosis of VF is challenging at gynaecologic examination, ano-proctoscopy and urethro-cystoscopy, imaging is crucial to confirm the fistula, to visualise its site, course and involved organ, and to characterise the underlying disease. The traditional conventional radiographic studies provided limited cross-sectional information and are nowadays largely replaced by CT and MRI studies.

Aiming to provide radiologists with an increased familiarity with VF, this pictorial paper summarises their clinical features, pathogenesis and therapeutic approach, and presents the appropriate CT and MRI acquisition and interpretation techniques that vary according to the anatomic site and termination of the fistula. The current role of state-of-the art CT and MRI is presented with examples regarding both entero- (involving the colon, rectum and anus) and urinary (connecting the bladder, distal ureter or urethra) VF. The resulting combined anatomic and functional cross-sectional information is crucial to allow a correct therapeutic choice and surgical planning.
PAMAM-cRGD mediating efficient siRNA delivery to spermatogonial stem cells
Authors: Li Tianjiao , Chen Qiwen , Zheng Yi , Zhang Pengfei , Chen Xiaoxu , Lu Junna , Lv Yinghua , Sun Shiguo , Zeng Wenxian
Published: December 2019

Background

Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are the cornerstone of sperm production and thus perpetual male fertility. In clinics, transplantation of patient’s own SSCs into testes is a promising technique to restore fertility when male germ cells have been depleted by gonadotoxic therapies. Auto-transplantation of genetically modified SSCs even has the potential to treat male infertility caused by genetic mutations. However, SSCs are refractory to transfection approaches. Poly(amidoamine) (PAMAM) dendrimers have the unique three-dimensional architecture, surface charge, and high density of surface groups that are suitable for ligand attachment, thereby facilitating target delivery. The goal of this study was to elucidate whether PAMAM dendrimers can efficiently deliver short interfering RNAs (siRNAs) to SSCs.

Methods and results

We introduced cyclic arginine-glycine-aspartic acid (cRGD) peptides to the fifth generation of PAMAM dendrimers (G5) to generate PAMAM-cRGD dendrimers (G5-cRGD). The characterization of G5-cRGD was detected by Fourier transform infrared spectroscope (FTIR), transmission electron microscope (TEM), and the Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. Confocal microscopy and flow cytometry were used to evaluate the delivery efficiency of siRNA by G5-cRGD to SSCs. The results showed that G5-cRGD encompassing siRNA could self-assemble into spherical structures with nanoscale size and possess high transfection efficiency, excellent endosomal escape ability, and low cytotoxicity, superior to a commercial transfection reagent Lipofectamine® 2000. Moreover, we demonstrated that G5-cRGD efficiently delivered siRNAs and triggered gene silencing.

Conclusions

This study thus provides a promising nanovector for siRNA delivery in SSCs, facilitating the future clinical application of SSC auto-transplantation with genetically modified cells with a hope to cure male infertility that is caused by genetic disorders.
A comprehensive proteomics profiling identifies NRP1 as a novel identity marker of human bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cell-derived small extracellular vesicles
Authors: Munshi Afnan , Mehic Jelica , Creskey Marybeth , Gobin Jonathan , Gao Jun , Rigg Emma , Muradia Gauri , Luebbert Christian C. , Westwood Carole , Stalker Andrew , Allan David S. , Johnston Michael J. W. , Cyr Terry , Rosu-Myles Michael , Lavoie Jessie R.
Published: December 2019

Background

Clinical applications have shown extracellular vesicles (EVs) to be a major paracrine effector in therapeutic responses produced by human mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (hMSCs). As the regenerative capacity of EVs is mainly ascribed to the transfer of proteins and RNA composing its cargo, and to the activity attributed by the protein surface markers, we sought to profile the protein composition of small EVs released from hMSCs to identify hMSC-EV biomarkers with potential clinical relevance.

Methods

Small EVs were produced and qualified from five human bone marrow MSC donors at low passage following a 48-h culture in exosome-depleted medium further processed by steps of centrifugation, filtration, and precipitation. Quantitative proteomic analysis comparing the protein profile of the EVs released from hMSCs and their parental cell was conducted using tandem mass tag labeling combined to mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) to identify enriched EV protein markers.

Results

Nanoparticle tracking analysis showed no differences in the EV concentration and size among the five hMSC donors (1.83 × 1010 ± 3.23 × 109/mL), with the mode particle size measuring at 109.3 ± 5.7 nm. Transmission electron microscopy confirmed the presence of nanovesicles with bilayer membranes. Flow cytometric analysis identified commonly found exosomal (CD63/CD81) and hMSC (CD105/CD44/CD146) markers from released EVs in addition to surface mediators of migration (CD29 and MCSP). Quantitative proteomic identified 270 proteins significantly enriched by at least twofold in EVs released from hMSCs as compared to parental hMSCs, where neuropilin 1 (NRP1) was identified among 21 membrane-bound proteins regulating the migration and invasion of cells, as well as chemotaxis and vasculogenesis. Validation by western blot of multiple batches of EVs confirmed consistent enrichment of NRP1 in the nanovesicles released from all five hMSC donors.

Conclusion

The identification and verification of NRP1 as a novel enriched surface marker from multiple batches of EVs derived from multiple hMSC donors may serve as a biomarker for the assessment and measurement of EVs for therapeutic uses.
Novel human sex-typing strategies based on the autism candidate gene NLGN4X and its male-specific gametologue NLGN4Y
Authors: Maxeiner Stephan , Sester Martina , Krasteva-Christ Gabriela
Published: December 2019

Background

Since the early days of PCR techniques, sex identification, “sex-typing,” of genomic DNA samples has been a fundamental part of human forensic analysis but also in animal genetics aiming at strategic livestock breeding. Most analyses are employing the AMELX/AMELY gene loci on the X and Y chromosomes present in most mammals. We hypothesize that sex-typing in humans is also possible based on the genes NLGN4X and NLGN4Y, which represent X and Y chromosome-specific copies of a common ancestral neuroligin-4 orthologue.

Methods

Genomic DNA was isolated from human blood and buccal cell samples (total n = 111) and submitted to two different strategies: (a) a traditional two-primer PCR approach detecting an insertion/deletion (indel) polymorphism immediately upstream of the translational start on exon 1 and (b) detection of a single nucleotide polymorphism, SNP, on the translational stop carrying exon 7. The SNP detection was based on a quantitative PCR approach (rhAMP genotyping) employing DNA/RNA hybrid oligonucleotides that were blocked and which could only be activated upon perfect annealing to the target DNA sequence.

Results

All indel PCR-tested human DNA samples showed two bands for males representing X- and Y-specific copies of NLGN4 and a single band for female samples, i.e., homozygosity of NLGN4X and absence of NLGN4Y, in accordance with the self-reported sex of the donors. These results were in perfect agreement with the results of the rhAMP-based SNP-detection method: all males were consequently positive for both alleles, representing either SNP variant, and females were interpreted as homozygous regarding the SNP variant found in NLGN4X. Both methods have shown reliable and consistent results that enabled us to infer the sex of donor DNA samples across different ethnicities.

Conclusions

These results indicate that the detection of human NLGN4X/Y is a suitable alternative to previously reported methods employing gene loci such as AMELX/Y. Furthermore, this is the first report applying successfully the rhAMP-genotyping strategy as a means for SNP-based sex-typing, which consequently will be applicable to other gene loci or different species as well.
Effect of owner-manager’s financial literacy on the performance of SMEs in the Cape Coast Metropolis in Ghana
Authors: Agyapong Daniel , Attram Albert Bampo
Published: December 2019

Financial literacy enables owner-managers of SMEs to understand and assess their own financial needs and make rational financial decisions. The paper explores the financial literacy of owner-managers of SMEs in the Cape Coast Metropolis and how such literacy influences the performance of their businesses. The study population were owner-managers of registered SMEs in the Cape Coast Metropolis from the National Board for Small and Medium Enterprise, out of which a sample of 132 was selected through the simple random sampling technique. The data was analyzed using Structural Equation Model. The results showed a positive relationship between financial literacy and the firm’s financial performance (t = 35.631, p < .00). The paper recommends that policy makers should specifically design a program and platform targeted at further enhancing the financial literacy level of these owner-managers to help improve the performance of their firms.
The association of HIV and easy access to narcotics in Pakistan; calling drug policy makers
Authors: Mallhi Tauqeer Hussain , Khan Yusra Habib , Khan Amjad , Alotaibi Nasser Hadal , Alzarea Abdulaziz Ibrahim , Hashmi Furqan Khurshid
Published: December 2019

HIV in Pakistan is concentrated to people who inject drugs (PWID) and easy accessibility of narcotics to this population cannot be disregarded as a risk factor of growing encumbrance of AIDS in the country. All the narcotics and other medications having high potential of abuse are stratified into Schedule G of Punjab Drug Rules 2017. According to these rules, drugs in Schedule G shall be sold in pharmacy under the direct supervision of qualified pharmacist. However, Schedule G is not implemented in Punjab due to continuous resistance from pharmaceutical stakeholders including medical store owners (who are barred to sell drugs from schedule G). Since 1.6 million PWID reported misuse of prescription opioids for non-medical use, delayed implementation of schedule G is attributing to the unabated sale of narcotics without prescription and for non-medical purposes, which is further contributing to the staggering number of PWID in the country. Implementing schedule G will not only curb the existing situation of HIV but will also mitigate the contribution of PWID towards the future events.
Practicalities of implementing open pedagogy in higher education
Authors: Paskevicius Michael , Irvine Valerie
Published: December 2019

This paper presents findings from a study which explored the ways in which post-secondary educators in British Columbia are reforming their teaching and learning practice as result of open education. Using a phenomenological approach with self-identifying open education practitioners we explore how openness is being enacted through learning design. Structuration theory is used as a theoretical lens to explore innovations to pedagogy through three modalities, which include facilities, norms, and interpretive schemes. The analysis identifies how participants in this study draw upon these modalities to support openness in their teaching. The findings suggest that open educational resources and practices can support learner-centered educational designs and should be considered design technologies, those that have the capacity to enhance teaching and learning practice; rather than simply content delivery technologies, those that influence the cost and access to education.
Infected femorocele: case report of an extremely rare surgical condition in a middle-aged lady suffering from a painful inguinal swelling
Authors: Bakshi Sabyasachi
Published: December 2019

Background

The hydrocele of the femoral hernia sac, an extremely rare occurrence, is termed femorocele. Very few authentically reported cases of femorocele are available in the literature. The present case, diagnosed as a case of infected femorocele, was managed successfully by excision of the femorocele sac and repair of the femoral hernia. To the best of the author’s knowledge, it is the first-ever reported case of infected femorocele.

Case presentation

A 30-year-old lady presented with a painful 3 cm × 2 cm swelling in the right inguinal region. Though the swelling was there for 2 years, the pain and indurations started after a trivial blunt trauma over the swelling 7 days ago. The patient was febrile and mild tachycardic but had no dysuria. The oval-shaped, tense-cystic, poorly translucent, non-pulsatile, non-reducible swelling showed no cough impulse. There was also a (1.5 cm × 0.5 cm) palpable right-sided superficial inguinal lymph node. Routine blood and urine analysis reports were normal except leukocytosis (10,000/mm3) with neutrophilia. Ultrasonography of the right inguino-labial region revealed a mildly echogenic cystic swelling without any intra-abdominal communication. Exploration of the right inguinal region revealed a cystic (3 cm × 2 cm) swelling, medial to the femoral vessels, containing amber-colored fluid. The distal sac was excised, and anatomical repair of femoral canal defect was done after transfixing the neck of the femorocele sac. Fibro-fatty-collagenous tissue with mixed inflammatory cells along with a flattened mesothelial lining cell layer was found on histopathological examination. Sections from inguinal lymph node showed reactive hyperplasia. Culture of fluid from the sac revealed growth of Escherichia coli. The patient was put on anti-inflammatory drugs and antibiotics according to a sensitivity test. Patient was discharged in stable condition after 5 days. Four months after the operation, the patient is doing well, remaining asymptomatic and without any sign of recurrence.

Conclusions

The hydrocele of the femoral hernia sac is an extremely rare disease. When not infected, it presents a painless inguinal soft cystic swelling, commonly in women of fourth to sixth decade. This was diagnosed intraoperatively in all cases reported till date. Excision of the sac after transfixation of the neck and anatomical repair are the treatment of choice. In elderly patients, with larger defect, the mesh repair can be opted for. The femorocele may also get infected by uropathogens, and proper antibiotics should be used after a sensitivity test.
Relationship between ethanol consumption and TBL2 rs17145738 on LDL-C concentration in Japanese adults: a four season 3-day weighed diet record study
Authors: Akimoto S. , Goto C. , Kuriki K.
Published: December 2019

Background

LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) concentration is modified by dietary and genetic factors; however, little is known about the details of this relationship. Our aim was to investigate the associations taking into account dietary assessment methods, seasonal effects and missing values.

Methods

Study subjects completed food frequency questionnaires (FFQ) and supplied 3-day weighed dietary records (WDRs) and blood samples in four seasons. Approximately 660,000 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were measured. Candidate SNPs related to LDL-C concentration were systematically selected. Multiple imputation was applied for missing values. A total of 312 repeated measures data were used for analyses. After adjusting for season and subjects as fixed and random effects, effects of nutrient intake and SNPs on LDL-C concentration were assessed according to three dietary assessment methods: the FFQ and first and four season 3-day WDRs (4 s-3d WDRs).

Results

For LDL-C concentration, ethanol consumption derived from all three dietary assessment methods was consistently associated (P < 0.09 for all). Positive and negative relationships were consistently shown with rs651007 and rs1160985 in the first and four seasons; but the latter remained after adjusting for total dietary fiber intake derived from the FFQ and 4 s-3d WDRs (P < 0.05, excepting the first 3-day WDRs). rs599839 was negatively associated after cholesterol intakes derived from the first and 4 s-3d WDRs were considered (P < 0.05 and 0.07, respectively). Each rs17145738 and ethanol consumption based on the 4 s-3d WDRs was related to LDL-C concentration (P < 0.05). Seasonal variations of LDL-C concentration were observed only in summer.

Conclusions

In contrast to nutrient intake, ethanol consumption was shown to be comprehensively related to LDL-C concentration, regardless of dietary assessment methods. Taking into account seasonal effects, critical relationships with LDL-C concentration for some SNPs, after adjustment for specific nutrients, were revealed. Our findings can be used to help to interpret the relationships between dietary and genetic factors on LDL-C concentration in large-scale epidemiological studies.

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Nurse-led video-coaching interventions in childhood, adolescent and young adult cancer survivors (REVIVER): a protocol for mixed methods feasibility research
Authors: Bouwman Eline , Hermens Rosella P. M. G. , Blijlevens Nicole M. A. , Prins Judith B. , Loonen Jacqueline J.
Published: December 2019

Background

Successful cancer treatment can lead to cancer survivors being predisposed to an increased lifelong risk of adverse late health effects. Therefore, high-quality cancer survivorship care to earlier detect and treat late effects or to preserve survivor’s health is essential. Nevertheless, this care needs to be sustainable and cost-effective as well. We developed three different screen-to-screen nurse-led eHealth interventions for survivors of childhood, adolescent and young adult-onset cancer, collectively called the REVIVER interventions. Elaborating on person-centred care principles with content based on cognitive behavioural therapy modules and/or motivational interviewing techniques, these interventions aim to empower and coach survivors to improve (1) symptoms of cancer-related fatigue, (2) self-efficacy and self-management or (3) lifestyle. With the REVIVER study, we aim to evaluate the interventions’ feasibility and gain insights into the potential effectiveness.

Methods

The REVIVER study involves a mixed methods design, including (1) interviews till data saturation with cancer survivors who completed the interventions as well as with all involved medical professionals, (2) reviews of nurses reports and (3) a single-group, pre-post evaluation among cancer survivors. Eligible survivors are survivors of childhood, adolescent and young adult-onset cancer who are referred to one of the interventions, in complete remission of cancer, 16–44 years old at enrolment, completed treatment at least 5 years ago and have access to a device with Internet options. We will assess feasibility in terms of demand, adherence, acceptability, practicality and integration/implementation. Health-related quality of life, as primary outcome of the potential effectiveness evaluation, will be assessed at three different time points: prior to the intervention; immediately following the intervention and 6 months post-intervention. Secondary outcome measures include changes in level of fatigue, self-efficacy, self-management and lifestyle.

Discussion

This is the first study to evaluate the feasibility and potential effectiveness of eHealth nurse-led interventions elaborating on person-centred care, using cognitive behavioural therapy and/or motivational interviewing techniques as an innovative and promising approach for providing CAYA cancer survivorship care. If the interventions prove to be feasible and potential effective, a randomized controlled trial will be conducted to test the (cost)-effectiveness.
Myocardial potency of Caesalpinia bonducella Linn. on doxorubicin induced myocardial infarction in albino rats
Authors: Nayagam Agnel Arul John , Gunasekaran Shobana , Rangarajan Sivasubramanian , Muthaiah Suganya
Published: December 2019

Objective

Caesalpinia bonducella L. is well known and extremely valuable herb in ayurvedic system of medicine. The present study is aimed to design the evaluation of aqueous extract of Caesalpinia bonducella L. on doxorubicin induced myocardial infarction in wistar strains of albino rats of both sex.

Materials and methods

The experimental animals are divided in to 5 groups of 6 animals each. Group I (Normal Control), Group II (Negative Control, 2.5 mg/kgbw of Doxorubicin i.p.), Group III (2.5 mg/kgbw of Doxorubicin i.p.) + AECB (150 mg/kgbw), Group IV (2.5 mg/kgbw of Doxorubicin i.p.) + AECB (300 mg/kgbw), Group V (2.5 mg/kgbw of Doxorubicin i.p.) + standard drug (Propranolol 5 mg/kgbw). Doxorubicin induced myocardial infarction was confirmed by disturbances in levels of cardiac markers (Lactate Dehydrogenase, Troponin-T, Creatine Kinase-MB Isoenzyme, Creatine Phosphokinase), nucleic acid contents (DNA and RNA), Challenged levels of Membrane bound enzymes such as Na+/K + ATPase, Ca2 + ATPase and Mg2 + ATPase, Decreased tissue protein and altered lipid profile markers.

Results

Doxorubicin induced rats significantly showed increase in the activities of LDH, CK-MB, CPK, Troponin-T, nucleic acids, membrane bound enzymes, lipid profiles and decrease in the serum HDL. Treatment with AECB simultaneously at two different doses such as 150 mg/kg bw, 300 mg/kg bw prevented the leakage of myocardium markers and altered the levels of Protein, DNA, RNA and membrane bound enzymes. The AECB prevented the altered variations in Cholesterol, Triacylglycerols, Phospholipids and Free Fatty Acids. This extract also brought back the levels of Lipoproteins like HDL, LDL and VLDL which were varied in disease control animals.

Conclusion

The present study concludes that AECB is effective in controlling the cardiac markers and lipid levels which could be due to its ability to maintain the membrane stability and repair the myocardial damage.
Correction to: Reliability of intra-operative frozen section study in revision of infected hip arthroplasty
Authors: Doshi Karan , Daultani Deepesh , Kumar M. Ajith , Shetty Shantharam , Pai Shailesh
Published: December 2019

In the original publication of this article [1], Figure 1 is wrong due to a typesetting mistake. The correct one should be:
Remarks for a Roundtable on Transnational Feminism
Authors: James Stanlie
Published: December 2019

In 1977 a collective of Black Lesbian Feminists published the Combahee River Collective Statement, a manifesto that defined and described the interlocking oppressions that they and other women of color were experiencing and the deleterious impact of these oppressions upon their lives. They committed themselves to a lifelong collective process and nonhierarchical distribution of power as they struggle(d) to envision and create a just society. Twenty-nine years after the appearance of the Combahee River Collective Statement, over one hundred African Feminists met in Accra, Ghana to formulate their own manifesto and ultimately adopt the Charter of Feminist Principles for African Feminists, which was first published in 2007 simultaneously in English and French. This paper reviews both statements and acknowledges their critical contributions to the evolution of Transnational Feminisms.
Everything’s Connected
Authors: Lober Brooke
Published: December 2019

In this interview, the writer, activist, and well-known woman of color feminist and participant in grassroots left movements Aurora Levins Morales explores the action and language of participatory social change, considered through the lens of her social location and experience. With a focus on intergenerational communication among feminist and Left movement participants, Brooke Lober asks Levins Morales to share her method of writing and activism, based in histories of family and place; to comment on the term and practice of “identity politics”; to assess the current upsurge of feminist movements; and to revisit her historical and contemporary contributions to internationalism, women of color feminism, and Jewish organizing in the Palestine solidarity movement. Levins Morales offers insightful reconsideration of her life, work, and philosophy, with descriptions of the context and motivation of her published writing.
FOXO1 regulates developmental lymphangiogenesis by upregulating CXCR4 in the mouse-tail dermis
Authors: Niimi Kenta , Kohara Misaki , Sedoh Eriko , Fukumoto Moe , Shibata Satoshi , Sawano Toshinori , Tashiro Fumi , Miyazaki Satsuki , Kubota Yoshiaki , Miyazaki Jun-ichi , Inagaki Shinobu , Furuyama Tatsuo
Published: December 2019

Lymphangiogenesis plays important roles in normal fetal development and postnatal growth. However, its molecular regulation remains unclear. Here, we have examined the function of forkhead box protein O1 (FOXO1) transcription factor, a known angiogenic factor, in developmental dermal lymphangiogenesis using endothelial cell-specific FOXO1-deficient mice. FOXO1-deficient mice showed disconnected and dilated lymphatic vessels accompanied with increased proliferation and decreased apoptosis in the lymphatic capillaries. Comprehensive DNA microarray analysis of the causes of in vivo phenotypes in FOXO1-deficient mice revealed that the gene encoding C-X-C chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4) was the most drastically downregulated in FOXO1-deficient primary lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs). CXCR4 was expressed in developing dermal lymphatic capillaries in wild-type mice but not in FOXO1-deficient dermal lymphatic capillaries. Furthermore, FOXO1 suppression impaired migration toward the exogenous CXCR4 ligand, C-X-C chemokine ligand 12 (CXCL12), and coordinated proliferation in LECs. These results suggest that FOXO1 serves an essential role in normal developmental lymphangiogenesis by promoting LEC migration toward CXCL12 and by regulating their proliferative activity. This study provides valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying developmental lymphangiogenesis.
Reducing Core Stability Influences Lower Extremity Biomechanics in Novice Runners
Authors: CHAUDHARI AJIT M. W. , VAN HORN MARGARET R. , MONFORT SCOTT M. , PAN XUELIANG , OÑATE JAMES A. , BEST THOMAS M.
Published: December 2019

Purpose

The role of core stability in running and its influence on injury risk in runners is not well understood. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of core stability (and core fatigue) on running mechanics. We hypothesized that decreasing core stability in novice runners would result in altered running mechanics previously associated with increased risk for common lower extremity running injuries.

Methods

Three-dimensional running kinematics and kinetics and seated postural sway on an unstable surface were collected on 25 healthy, novice runners before and after they performed a core stability knockdown protocol (CSKP), designed to temporarily reduce participants’ core stability in a single testing session.

Results

Linear mixed models demonstrated that the CSKP resulted in an increased peak knee flexion moment (0.51%BW·ht increase, effect size = 0.49,P= 0.021) and a decreased vertical average loading rate (4.5 BW·s−1decrease, effect size = 0.44,P= 0.037) during running, but no significant changes in peak knee adduction moment, knee adduction impulse, hip adduction moment, hip adduction impulse, or peak vertical ground reaction force (allP> 0.05). Of 25 runners, 20 demonstrated a measurable decrement in their core stability as defined by their seated postural sway center of pressure excursion changing more than the standard error of measurement of 76 mm.

Conclusions

An experimentally induced decrement in core stability in novice runners caused an increased peak knee flexion moment during stance, which has previously been associated with increased patellofemoral contact pressure during running. Therefore, these results demonstrate that insufficient core stability in novice runners may be a risk factor for developing patellofemoral pain. Other results did not support a role of core stability in other common overuse running injuries in this population.
The adventures of translation in The Adventures of Pinocchio
Authors: Drosopulos Μary , Gavriilidis Sofia
Published: December 2019

Η έρευνα κατά τις τελευταίες δεκαετίες στον τομέα της μετάφρασης και των πολιτιστικών σπουδών έδειξε ότι, κατά τη μεταφορά ενός λογοτεχνικού κειμένου από ένα γλωσσικό / πολιτιστικό σύστημα σε άλλο, χρησιμοποιούνται τροποποιητικοί μηχανισμοί. Σύμφωνα με σχετικές μελέτες, η ανάλυση του πώς οι μεταφραστές διαχειρίζονται πολιτισμικά αλλότρια στοιχεία παρέχει πληροφορίες για τη δυναμική της διαπολιτισμικής λειτουργίας του μεταφρασμένου κειμένου. Το ίδιο το κείμενο είναι επίσης ενδεικτικό των ιδεολογικών αξιών που προωθεί η εγχώρια βιομηχανία βιβλίων. Συγκεκριμένα, στην περίπτωση της παιδικής λογοτεχνίας, μελέτες έχουν δείξει ισχυρές τροποποιήσεις στις μεταφράσεις. Αυτή η τάση έχει προκαλέσει αμφιβολίες σχετικά με τις έννοιες της διαπολιτισμικότητας και της ένταξης που φέρεται ότι συνδέονται με τη Παιδική Λογοτεχνία. Η παρούσα μελέτη εξετάζει την ποικιλομορφία της μεταφρασμένης παιδικής λογοτεχνίας αντιπαραθέτοντας τις πρόσφατες μεταφράσεις του κλασικού βιβλίου The Adventures of Pinocchio στα ελληνικά και τα τουρκικά με το αρχικό ιταλικό κείμενο. Οι μελέτες περιγραφικής μετάφρασης χρησιμοποιήθηκαν ως σημείο αναφοράς. Οι στρατηγικές των μεταφραστών εξετάζονται και σχολιάζονται σε σχέση με τις αξίες και τις αρχές του πολιτισμού-στόχου και το κοινωνικοπολιτικό πλαίσιο της περιόδου κατά την οποία εκδόθηκε κάθε μεταφρασμένη έκδοση. Η συγκριτική μελέτη των μεταφρασμένων κειμένων έδειξε ότι οι ελληνικές μεταφράσεις τείνουν να είναι πιο πιστές στο αρχικό κείμενο, ενώ οι τουρκικές μεταφράσεις εκδηλώνουν μια κλίση στις ηθικές αξίες που συνδέονται με τα εθνικά και θρησκευτικά ιδανικά.
Διερεύνηση της αξιοποίησης του διαδικτύου και του κινητού τηλεφώνου από τους νεοεισαχθέντες φοιτητές: η περίπτωση των φοιτητών του ΠΤΔΕ του Πανεπιστημίου Πατρών
Authors: Σαμαράς Χρήστος , Νιάρη Μαρία , Παναγιωτακόπουλος Χρήστος , Βερύκιος Βασίλειος
Published: December 2019

Στην παρούσα εργασία παρουσιάζονται τα αποτελέσματα μιας μεγάλης κλίμακας έρευνας στο Παιδαγωγικό Τμήμα Δημοτικής Εκπαίδευσης (Π.Τ.Δ.Ε) του Πανεπιστημίου Πατρών, με θέμα τη μετάβαση από το σχολείο στο πανεπιστήμιο και την αξιοποίηση του διαδικτύου και της τεχνολογίας στις σπουδές. Η έρευνα διεξήχθη επί τέσσερα συνεχόμενα ακαδημαϊκά έτη (2013-2017) και αφορούσε τους νεοεισαχθέντες φοιτητές και φοιτήτριες του τμήματος. Για την υλοποίηση της έρευνας αξιοποιήθηκε ερωτηματολόγιο με κλειστές και ανοιχτές ερωτήσεις.  Από τα ευρήματα της παρούσας ερευνητικής εργασίας προκύπτει  πως ο βαθμός της χρήσης του διαδικτύου και του κινητού τηλεφώνου, ως υποστηρικτικού μέσου στα συμβατικά πανεπιστημιακά ιδρύματα αλλά και από τους φοιτητές, ποικίλει. Για να είναι αποδοτική η χρήση των νέων τεχνολογιών και η επένδυση ενός ιδρύματος σ’ αυτές, χρειάζεται να έχουν τη γνώση και τη δυνατότητα να την αξιοποιήσουν και οι φοιτητές. Άρα, οι φοιτητές χρειάζεται να αναπτύξουν τις αντίστοιχες δεξιότητες.
Epidemiological - clinical features of primary malignant brain tumors of patients who underwent surgical resection and / or radiotherapy
Authors: Lagiou Anthoula , Papagiannopoulos Ioannis , Margari Nikoletta , Vasilopoulos Georgios
Published: December 2019

The aim of the present study was to describe the demographic characteristics of patients diagnosed with primary brain tumor, the clinical features and prognostic indicators of disease progression and treatment they received.Methods: A retrospective descriptive study was conducted on a convenience sample of 47 patients who attended the radiotherapeutic department of General Hospital of Athens over three years, from May 2011 until May 2014.For analysis used the statistical program SPSS 18.0.Results: 59.6% of patients were male and 40.4% of patients were between 61 and 69 years. 85.1% of patients had glioblastomamultiforme and meningioma 8.5%. 57.5% of patients with glioblastomamultiforme were men and 50.0% of patients with meningioma. It was found that the patients with grade I-III were considerably higher percentage between 61 and 69 years as compared to patients with grade IV (p = 0,021). Patients with grade IV underwent chemotherapy significantly higher rate compared with patients with grade I-III. No significant difference was found in the course of radiotherapy among patients with grade IV and patients with grade I-III. Differed significantly Ki-67 among patients with grade IV and of patients with grade I-III patients with grade IV were higher Ki-67.Conclusion: Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most frequently diagnosed intracranial malignant tumor in adults. Typical treatment for glioblastomas, with surgical resection followed by radiation and chemotherapy with temozolomide and anti - angiogenic therapy bevacizumab , have significantly improved the overall survival.
Correlation of the working environment with the quality of nursing care
Authors: Ntatseri Eugenia , Gerogianni Georgia , Kelesi Martha , Fasoi Georgia
Published: December 2019

Introduction: Improvement of the quality of health care and patients' satisfaction during their hospitalisation depends on many interconnected factors.Aim: This research study intends to investigate four aspects of the nursing environment (autonomy, relationships between doctors and nurses, commanding support and checking working conditions) and the effect they have on nursing care.Material and Methods: The study sample consists of 127 public hospital nurses with a mean age of 45 years (SD = 6.8 years). The questionnaire which was used was based on the revised version of NURSING WORK INDEX-REVISED (NWI-R).  Data analysis was performed by the statistical package SPSS 19.0.Results: Of the total sample, 72.4% of participants agree that supervisors support their staff and 60.6% thinks that there is support from nurses for the decisions of their colleagues. Also 10.3% agree that there are enough resources that allow them to spend time with patients, while 65.3% claims that they spend their personal time on different duties. Furthermore, correlation was detected among the aspects of autonomy, relationships between doctors and nurses and ''Control over the practice setting''. The workplace affects the autonomy's percentages (p<0.020), control of working conditions (p<0.004) and was related to organisational support (p<0.020). According to the above, nurses due to lowest direction's rating have less satisfaction from their research (p<0.004).Conclusion: The nurses’ job satisfaction is significantly related to the ‘’autonomy’’ factor and affects the quality of care provided to the patient. By investing in actions and practices that increase autonomy ,improve the control of working conditions as well as the cooperation between nurses and doctors and by increasing organisational support for the employee, there is significant improvement of the quality of nursing care and increased job satisfaction.
The importance of management culture in Health Services
Authors: Rovithis Michael
Published: December 2019

Abstact in greek
The impact of preoperative education in satisfaction and postoperative outcomes of patients undergoing cardiac surgery
Authors: Kalogianni Antonia , Georgiadis Georgios , Katselou Olga , Kadda Olga , Sotiropoulou Aikaterini , Argiriou Mihalis
Published: December 2019

Introduction: The effectiveness of preoperative education in postoperative course of cardiac surgery patients has been questioned. Aim: To estimate the impact of preoperative education in satisfaction and postoperative outcomes of patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Material and Method: A quasi-experimental trial was conducted. Sixty nine patients who admitted for elective cardiac surgery were divided randomly in intervention (34) and control group (35). Intervention group received written and verbal education based on patient centered communication by specially trained nurses. Patients’ satisfaction, postoperative complications and hospital length of stay (LOS) was measured. Results: Scores on all dimensions of satisfaction were greater for intervention group (p<0,001).No difference found for complications in intensive care unit (ICU) (p=0,150) in both groups. The total complications was lower (p=0,028) in intervention group with a lower proportion of arrhythmia (p=0,011). The median LOS in ICU was shorter for intervention group (p=0,035). No difference found in median hospital LOS in either group. Conclusions: Nurse-led preoperative education increases satisfaction of patients undergoing cardiac surgery and may have an effect on LOS shortening and complications control.
Analgesia of acute abdominal pain in the Emergency Department
Authors: Kalaronis Panteleimon , Kalogianni Antonia , Kelesi Martha , Evagelidou Eytichia , Mpalla Ioulia-Maria , Karanasou Amalia , Marvaki Christina
Published: December 2019

Introduction: Pain accounts for 40% of all patients admitted to the Emergency Department (ED). The most common cause of pain is abdominal pain, which accounts for 8%. In contrast to the international guidelines, pain is under-treated making the phenomenon of oligoanalgesia apparent.Aim: The purpose of this study was to explore the incidence of analgesia in patients admitted to the ED suffering from acute abdominal pain.  Material and Method: This is a descriptive cross-sectional study. The studied sample consisted of 197 patients, who admitted to the ED of a General Hospital of Athens, Greece with reported symptom: acute abdominal pain. For data collection, a special designed form of closed-type questionnaires was used. Data analysis was performed by using the Statistic Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) statistical packet ver.19.Results: Out of the total number of patients admitted to ED with reported abdominal pain, 74.6% received analgesia and the mean time of analgesia administration during ED admission was 46.43 minutes. The mean pain intensity at the first time point measurement was 7.16 and at the second one was 4.04, according to pain recording scale (0-10 scale). Non-opioid anti-inflammatories (52.3%),  non-steroidal analgesics (22.8%) and opioids (9.1%) were mainly administered patients during their ED stayConclusions: Despite the published international guidelines which refer to analgesia time and type, pain and especially abdominal pain, is under-treated. The key to tackling oligoanalgesia is to educate health professionals.
The doctor-patient relationship
Authors: Vargiami Maria , Goula Maria
Published: December 2019

The relationship between the doctor and the patient is a particular type of human relation. On one hand, the word «patient» states that a person is at a disadvantage, because of his/her illness, and therefore is automatically at a disadvantageous position compared to the doctor. On the other hand, the patient has the opportunity to inform him/herself from online sources, to communicate with other patients, to participate as equal and to choose consciously his/her treatment plan.There are many different types of patients depending on their personality and interaction with their doctor. These types constituted a research field in the 80’s which lead to the analysis of patients’ psychology. After an historical flashback, patients are put in categories according to their reaction to their illness. In addition, the verbal way of approaching patients by their doctor, the patients’ expectations and their encouragement by professionals to participate more actively concerning their health care is underlined. As a result, this is the beginning of a new era, where the patient has requirements concerning both the medical and the human aspect of the doctor-patient relationship.