bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What do we know about the sleep effects of caffeine used to treat apnoea of prematurity? A systematic review of the literature
Authors: de Toledo Ana Renata Pinto , Caetano Higor Arruda , Skupien Jovito Adiel , Boeck Carina Rodrigues , Fiori Humberto , da Silva Rosane Souza
Published: September 2023

Objective

Scientific scrutiny has proved the safety and benefits of caffeine to treat apnoea of prematurity (AOP). However, there is no consensus on the effects of this treatment on sleep, especially considering the key role of adenosine and early brain development for sleep maturation. We systematically reviewed studies with sleep as a primary and/or secondary outcome or any mention of sleep parameters in the context of caffeine treatment for AOP.

Methods

We performed a systematic search of PubMed, Web of Science and the Virtual Health Library from inception to 7 September 2022 to identify studies investigating the short- and long-term effects of caffeine to treat AOP on sleep parameters. We used the PIC strategy considering preterm infants as the Population, caffeine for apnoea as the Intervention and no or other intervention other than caffeine as the Comparison. We registered the protocol on PROSPERO (CRD42021282536).

Results

Of 4019 studies, we deemed 20, including randomised controlled trials and follow-up and observational studies, to be eligible for our systematic review. The analysed sleep parameters, the evaluation phase and the instruments for sleep assessment varied considerably among the studies. The main findings can be summarised as follows: (i) most of the eligible studies in this systematic review indicate that caffeine used to treat AOP seems to have no effect on key sleep parameters and (ii) the effects on sleep when caffeine is administered earlier, at higher doses or for longer periods than the most common protocol have not been investigated. There is a possible correlation between the caffeine concentration and period of exposure and negative sleep quality, but the sleep assessment protocols used in the included studies did not have high-quality standards and could not provide good evidence.

Conclusions and implications

Sleep quality is an important determinant of health, and better investments in research with adequate sleep assessment tools are necessary to guarantee the ideal management of children who were born preterm.
Acute and long-term psychosocial consequences in grandparents when a grandchild is diagnosed with cancer – the GROKids Project: a population-based mixed-methods study protocol
Authors: Michel Gisela , Raguindin Peter Francis , Priboi Cristina , Ilic Anica , Holmer Pauline , Scheinemann Katrin ,   the GROKids Project, von der Weid Nicolas , Brazzola Pierluigi , Roessler Jochen , Ansari Marc , Diezi Manuel , Beck-Popovic Maja , Schilling Freimut , Greiner Jeanette , Hengartner Heinz
Published: September 2023

Background

Grandparents play a crucial role in providing their families with love, support, and wisdom, often also supporting them in practical and financial ways. The psychosocial effects experienced by grandparents when a grandchild is diagnosed with an illness can be significant, including increased stress, anxiety, grief, and disruptions in their own lives. Yet, the experience of grandparents is often overlooked in the literature.

Methods/design

The GROKids Project aims to investigate how grandparents are affected by a grandchild's cancer diagnosis. It employs a mixed-methods approach and consists of three studies: a longitudinal cohort study (Study 1) and a qualitative study (Study 2) involving grandparents of children with a recent cancer diagnosis, and a cross-sectional study (Study 3) of grandparents of childhood cancer survivors. Study 1 covers four time points over two years after the cancer diagnosis, while Study 2 explores the lived experiences of a subsample of these grandparents. Study 3 collects data from grandparents of childhood cancer survivors diagnosed 3 to 10 years ago. Participants are recruited across eight pediatric oncology centers in Switzerland, and through patient advocacy and support groups. Eligibility criteria include having a grandchild diagnosed with cancer and being fluent in German, French, or Italian.

Study procedures involve requesting grandparents’ contacts from eligible families, and later contacting grandparents, providing study information, obtaining informed consent, and sending out questionnaires by post or online. Reminder calls and mails are used to improve response rates. Data analysis includes multilevel regression (Study 1), thematic analysis (Study 2), and regression analyses (Study 3). Various validated questionnaires are used to assess physical health and overall well-being, psychological health, internal, and external factors.

Discussion

This project addresses the gaps in understanding the psychosocial effects on grandparents having a grandchild diagnosed with cancer. It utilizes a comprehensive approach, including multiple methodologies and considering the broader family context. The project’s strengths lie in its mixed-methods design, longitudinal approach, and inclusion of the perspectives of the sick children, siblings, and parents, besides grandparents. By gaining a more profound understanding of grandparents' experiences, researchers and healthcare professionals can develop targeted interventions and support services to address grandparents’ unique needs.
A review of the tools and techniques used in the digital preservation of architectural heritage within disaster cycles
Authors: Li Yuan , Du Yanan , Yang Mengsheng , Liang Jiaqi , Bai Huanxia , Li Rui , Law Andrew
Published: September 2023

Architectural heritage is vulnerable to disasters. Digital technologies can fight destruction and can ensure integrity by monitoring, managing and protecting architectural heritage from disasters. In this paper, we clarify the relationship between disasters, digitalization and architectural heritage conservation for the sustainability of cultural heritage. This study used the PRISMA process, and bibliometric tools VOSviewer and Citespace to explore the potential of digital technologies in the protection of architectural heritage—especially during disaster cycles, from the perspectives of both universal and typicality; the results revealed that digital twins, deep learning, and preventive conservation are currently hot topics in digital preservation research (especially that research which relates to disaster cycles). On this basis, this paper summarizes the relevant technologies involved in architectural heritage preservation from the perspective of the disaster cycle and the digital phase, and proposes three future research directions: accurate prediction of multi-disasters, automatic early warning of structural damages, and intelligent monitoring of human–computer interaction. This paper constructs a new research frame for digital preservation of architectural heritage during disasters, providing theoretical reference and practical guidance for architectural heritage conversation.
Significant correlations between postoperative outcomes and various limb and component alignment strategies in medial unicompartmental knee arthroplasty: a systematic review
Authors: Sava Manuel‐Paul , Leica Alexandra , Scala Isabel , Beckmann Johannes , Hirschmann Michael T.
Published: September 2023

Purpose

To investigate the correlation between postoperative limb/component alignments and clinical/functional outcomes following medial unicondylar knee arthroplasty (mUKA).

Methods

Inclusion criteria included peer‐reviewed English‐ or German‐language publications assessing postoperative limb or implant alignment and clinical outcomes of mUKA. Methodological Index for Non‐Randomized Studies (MINORS) was used to assess article quality.

Results

A total of 2767 knees from 2604 patients were evaluated. Significant correlations were observed between postoperative limb/component alignments and clinical/functional outcomes after mUKA. Inferior outcomes were associated with lower placement and excessive valgus alignment of the tibia component (> 3°). A recommended external rotation of 4°‐5° was identified for the tibia component, with specific cut‐off values for the femoral and tibia components.

Conclusions

Optimal outcomes in mUKA were associated with a varus coronal limb alignment. The tibia implant component performed well within a specific alignment range. An exact external rotation value was recommended for the tibia component, while internal rotation correlated negatively with the femoral component.

Level of evidence

IV (level IV retrospective case series were included).
CT-based deep learning radiomics nomogram for the prediction of pathological grade in bladder cancer: a multicenter study
Authors: Song Hongzheng , Yang Shifeng , Yu Boyang , Li Na , Huang Yonghua , Sun Rui , Wang Bo , Nie Pei , Hou Feng , Huang Chencui , Zhang Meng , Wang Hexiang
Published: September 2023

Background

To construct and assess a computed tomography (CT)-based deep learning radiomics nomogram (DLRN) for predicting the pathological grade of bladder cancer (BCa) preoperatively.

Methods

We retrospectively enrolled 688 patients with BCa (469 in the training cohort, 219 in the external test cohort) who underwent surgical resection. We extracted handcrafted radiomics (HCR) features and deep learning (DL) features from three-phase CT images (including corticomedullary-phase [C-phase], nephrographic-phase [N-phase] and excretory-phase [E-phase]). We constructed predictive models using 11 machine learning classifiers, and we developed a DLRN by combining the radiomic signature with clinical factors. We assessed performance and clinical utility of the models with reference to the area under the curve (AUC), calibration curve, and decision curve analysis (DCA).

Results

The support vector machine (SVM) classifier model based on HCR and DL combined features was the best radiomic signature, with AUC values of 0.953 and 0.943 in the training cohort and the external test cohort, respectively. The AUC values of the clinical model in the training cohort and the external test cohort were 0.752 and 0.745, respectively. DLRN performed well on both data cohorts (training cohort: AUC = 0.961; external test cohort: AUC = 0.947), and outperformed the clinical model and the optimal radiomic signature.

Conclusion

The proposed CT-based DLRN showed good diagnostic capability in distinguishing between high and low grade BCa.
An introductory review of the thermal structure of subduction zones: III—Comparison between models and observations
Authors: van Keken Peter E. , Wilson Cian R.
Published: September 2023

The thermal structure of subduction zones is fundamental to our understanding of the physical and chemical processes that occur at active convergent plate margins. These include magma generation and related arc volcanism, shallow and deep seismicity, and metamorphic reactions that can release fluids. Computational models can predict the thermal structure to great numerical precision when models are fully described but this does not guarantee accuracy or applicability. In a trio of companion papers, the construction of thermal subduction zone models, their use in subduction zone studies, and their link to geophysical and geochemical observations are explored. In this last part, we discuss how independent finite element approaches predict the thermal structure of the global subduction system and investigate how well these predictions correspond to geophysical, geochemical, and petrological observations.
A momentary lack of rituals: urban festivities cancelations in Geneva, Turin, and Zurich during the COVID-19 lockdowns
Authors: Cattacin Sandro , Gamba Fiorenza , Alzola Nerea Viana
Published: September 2023

Rituals of territorial belonging as established practices of inclusion improve dynamics of belonging and coexistence. They are particularly significant in the city where people need rituals to trust each other. But what happens when rituals disappear? The Covid-19 pandemic is an experiment on a societal level on the role of rituals. We will analyze three canceled or strongly modified traditional events in Geneva, Zurich, and Turin. We conclude that these cancellations of rituals in urban public spaces generated a lack of territorial belonging and produced mistrust and anger, but at the same time pushed people to develop new dynamics to fill this void. Frustration over the cancellation was transformed into agency. This sense of emptiness was filled through the multiplication of personal and social rituals, through the rediscovery of the city’s territory alone or with their groups of affiliation, and through new digital rituals linked to the urban ritual.
Measuring needs-based quality of life and self-perceived health inequity in patients with multimorbidity: investigating psychometric measurement properties of the MultiMorbidity Questionnaire (MMQ) using primarily Rasch models
Authors: Bissenbakker Kristine , Siersma Volkert , Jønsson Alexandra Brandt Ryborg , Møller Anne , Christensen Karl Bang , Brodersen John Brandt
Published: September 2023

Background

Multimorbidity is a burden for the individual and to the healthcare sector worldwide, leading to a rising number of intervention studies towards this patient group. To measure a possible effect of such interventions, an adequate patient-reported outcome measure (PROM) is essential. The aim of this study was to assess the draft MultiMorbidity Questionnaire (MMQ), a PROM measuring needs-based quality of life and self-perceived inequity in patients with multimorbidity, for its psychometric properties and to adjust it accordingly to create a content- and construct valid measure.

Methods

The draft MMQ was sent to 1198 eligible respondents with multimorbidity. Modern test theory and classical test theory were used to analyse data. Dimensionality of the suggested domains and invariance of the items were assessed through item analysis, examining the fit to a psychometric model.

Results

The psychometric analyses were based on responses from 390 patients with multimorbidity. In the MMQ1, measuring needs-based QoL, evidence of six unidimensional scales was confirmed: physical ability (6 items), worries (6 items), limitations in everyday life (10 items), my social life (6 items), self-image (6 items), and personal finances (3 items). The psychometric analyses of the MMQ2 outlined four unidimensional scales measuring the feeling of Self-perceived inequity in patients with multimorbidity: experiences of being stigmatised (4–5 items), Experiences of insufficient understanding of the burden of disease (3 items), Experiences of not being seen and heard (4 items), Experience of powerlessness (5 items). These scales are relevant for patients’ with multimorbidity encounters with (1) their general pratitioner, (2) staff at their general practitioner’s surgery, (3) healthcare professionals, (4) staff at the local authorities and (5) friends, family, and others.

Conclusion

The MMQ, a QoL measure for patients living with multimorbidity has been validated: the MMQ1 is a condition-specific PROM with adequate psychometric properties designed to measure needs-based QoL. The MMQ2 measuring Self-perceived inequity, has also been found to possess adequate measurement properties; however due to the risk of type 2 error a revalidation of MMQ2 is suggested.
The collagen enhancement by Spirulina extract in intrinsic and extrinsic skin aging in albino rat
Authors: Sharafeldein Khaled , Ayesh Hanan , Salama Safwatt , Marei Azza M.
Published: September 2023

Background

The aging of the skin is considered a cumulative process that is classed as intrinsic or extrinsic. Environmental factors like sun exposure and air pollution are considered the main cause of extrinsic aging. Mainly, intrinsic aging reflects the genetic background and depends on time. Spirulina platensis unicellular blue–green algae have a variety of biological and nutritional activities because of their high level of nutrients. The current study aims to investigate the mechanism by which spirulina extract (SE) may act anti-aging in female albino rats. Spirulina extract (20 mg/mL) was injected subcutaneously before UVA irradiation (2.16 J/cm2), daily for 7 days. The epidermal thickness and the collagen fibers layer were stained utilizing hematoxylin and eosin and Masson.

Results

SE induced significant improvements in the activities of antioxidants including superoxide dismutase and reduced glutathione, down-regulating in expressions of inflammatory cytokines: interleukin-1β and tumor necrosis factor-α and reverses excessive ROS levels. As well as , the recovery of collagen density and reduction in the production of matrix metalloproteinases were presented.

Conclusions

The results found that spirulina extract may delay the signs of skin aging by enhancing collagen as well as antioxidant activities and inhibiting collagen degradation and inflammation.
Exploration of the anti-diabetic potential of hydro-ethanolic leaf extract of Koenigia polystachya L.: an edible wild plant from Northeastern India
Authors: Kiba Alokali , Saha Dipankar , Das Bhrigu Kumar
Published: September 2023

Background

Globally, medicinal plants are used to treat diseases like diabetes. The present study evaluates the possible antioxidant, acute oral toxicity, the in-vitro and in-vivo antidiabetic potential of the hydro-ethanolic leaf extract of Koenigia polystachya (HELeKP) against beta-cell damage in experimentally induced diabetes mellitus. The DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazine), ABTS [2,2′-azino bis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)], H2O2 (Hydrogen peroxide), superoxide radical scavenging activity and NO (Nitric oxide) assay estimated the in-vitro antioxidant assay of HELeKP. The acute oral toxicity study was evaluated per the OECD (Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development) test guidelines 425. Diabetes was stimulated in rats with a single dose of Streptozotocin (STZ), and after confirmation of diabetes, HELeKP was given orally for 21 days. Blood/serum samples were gathered and examined for biochemical changes, while tissue samples were evaluated for histopathological alterations.

Results

The IC50 value of the HELeKP for all the anti-oxidant assays confirms the free radical scavenging activity. The data on acute oral toxicity revealed that the HELeKP used in the study was comparatively very safe. The outcomes of the in-vivo study suggested that the extract significantly reduced (p < 0.001) the fasting glucose level in STZ-induced diabetic rats. Furthermore, the lipid profile level was significantly normalized (p < 0.01, p < 0.001) in diabetic rats. The histopathological observation of the pancreas in HELeKP-treated rats showed significant beta-cell restoration.

Conclusions

Based on the outcomes of this study, the HELeKP-treated rats have significant free radical scavenging and anti-diabetic potential. Therefore, it can be recommended as a beneficial functional vegetable for consumption.
Mandibular small cell osteosarcoma: a case report and review of literature
Authors: Amer Hatem Wael , Algadi Hana’a Hezam , Hamza Shyma’a Ahmed
Published: September 2023

Background

Small cell osteosarcoma is an extremely rare histopathological variant of conventional osteosarcoma. Due to nonspecific symptoms, most osteosarcomas of the jaws are misdiagnosed as periapical abscesses and mistreated by teeth extraction and drainage.

Case presentation

We report, to our knowledge, the seventh case of small cell osteosarcoma in gnathic sites affecting the mandible of an old female with history of a large painful swelling related to the right mandibular molar area for 2 months. Cone-beam computed tomography scan showed an osteolytic lesion related to the lower molar area with involvement of the inferior alveolar nerve. An incisional biopsy was taken, and after histopathological examination and immunohistochemical staining, a diagnosis of small cell osteosarcoma was reached. Hemi-mandibulectomy was performed by a maxillofacial surgeon. No clinical evidence for recurrence was noted until manuscript writing.

Conclusion

Accurate diagnosis is very important, and general practitioners should be aware of this entity considering that small cell osteosarcoma has a poor prognosis when compared to conventional osteosarcoma.
Design principles for transporting vesicles with enclosed active particles
(a)
Authors: Uplap Sarvesh , Hagan Michael F. , Baskaran Aparna
Published: September 2023

We use coarse-grained molecular-dynamics simulations to study the motility of a 2D vesicle containing self-propelled rods, as a function of the vesicle bending rigidity and the number density, length, and activity of the enclosed rods. Above a threshold value of the rod length, distinct dynamical regimes emerge, including a dramatic enhancement of vesicle motility characterized by a highly persistent random walk. These regimes are determined by clustering of the rods within the vesicle; the maximum motility state arises when there is one long-lived polar cluster. We develop a scaling theory that predicts the dynamical regimes as a function of control parameters, and shows that feedback between activity and passive membrane forces govern the rod organization. These findings yield design principles for building self-propelled superstructures using independent active agents under deformable confinement.
Catheter Tract Hemorrhages and Intracerebral Hemorrhage Outcomes in the Clot Lysis: Evaluating Accelerated Resolution of Intraventricular Hemorrhage Trial
Authors: Garton Andrew L. A. , Oh Stephanie E. , Müller Achim , Avadhani Radhika , Zhang Cenai , Merkler Alexander E. , Awad Issam , Hanley Daniel , Kamel Hooman , Ziai Wendy C. , Murthy Santosh B.
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Factors associated with external ventricular catheter tract hemorrhage (CTH) are well studied; whether CTH adversely influence outcomes after intracerebral hemorrhage (sICH), however, is poorly understood. We therefore sought to evaluate the association between CTH and sICH outcomes.

METHODS:

We performed a post hoc analysis of the Clot Lysis: Evaluating Accelerated Resolution of Intraventricular Hemorrhage trial. The exposure was CTH and evaluated on serial computed tomography scans between admission and randomization (approximately 72 hours). The primary outcomes were a composite of death or major disability (modified Rankin Score >3) and mortality alone, both assessed at 6 months. Secondary outcomes were functional outcomes at 30 days, permanent cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) shunt placement, any infection, and ventriculitis. We performed logistic regression adjusted for demographics, comorbidities, sICH characteristics, and treatment assignment, for all analyses.

RESULTS:

Of the 500 patients included, the mean age was 59 (SD, ±11) years and 222 (44%) were female. CTH occurred in 112 (22.4%) patients and was more common in minority patients, those on prior antiplatelet therapy, and patients who had more than 1 external ventricular drain placed. The end of treatment intraventricular hemorrhage volume was higher among patients with CTH (11.7 vs 7.9 mL, P = .01), but there were no differences in other sICH characteristics or the total duration of external ventricular drain. In multivariable regression models, CTH was not associated with death or major disability (odds ratio, 0.7; 95% CI: 0.4-1.2) or death alone (odds ratio, 0.8; 95% CI, 0.5-1.4). There were no relationships between CTH and secondary outcomes including 30-day functional outcomes, permanent CSF shunt placement, any infection, or ventriculitis.

CONCLUSION:

Among patients with sICH and large intraventricular hemorrhage, CTH was not associated with poor sICH outcomes, permanent CSF shunt placement, or infections. A more detailed cognitive evaluation is needed to inform about the role of CTH in sICH prognosis.
Visual Morbidity in Patients With Ophthalmic Segment Aneurysms Treated With Flow Diverters: A Dual-Center Experience
Authors: Levy Bennett R. , Monteiro Andre , Raygor Kunal P. , Donnelly Brianna M. , Davies Jason M. , Snyder Kenneth V. , Siddiqui Adnan H. , Levy Elad I. , Sigounas Dimitri
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

Flow diverter (FD) treatment for aneurysms of the ophthalmic segment of the internal carotid artery (ICA) may raise concerns about visual morbidity related to coverage of the ophthalmic artery by the device. Our objective was to evaluate clinical and angiographic outcomes associated with FD treatment of these aneurysms, with particular emphasis on visual morbidity.

METHODS:

We performed a retrospective analysis of the endovascular databases at 2 US centers to identify consecutive patients with aneurysms along the ophthalmic segment of the ICA that were treated with FDs between January 2010 and December 2022. Baseline demographics, aneurysm characteristics, and periprocedural and postprocedural data, including the occurrence of visual complications, were collected.

RESULTS:

One hundred and thirteen patients with 113 aneurysms were identified for inclusion in this study. The mean age of the patients was 59.5 ± 12.4 years, and 103 (91.2%) were women. The ophthalmic artery origin was involved in 40 (35.4%) aneurysms, consisting of a neck origin in 33 (29.2%) and a dome origin in 7 (6.2%). New transient visual morbidity during the hospital stay included impaired visual acuity or blurriness in 1 (0.9%) patient, diplopia in 1 (0.9%), and floaters in 1 (0.9%). New transient visual morbidity during follow-up included impaired visual acuity or blurriness in 5 patients (4.4%), diplopia in 3 (2.7%), ipsilateral visual field defect in 1 (0.9%), and floaters in 6 (5.3%). Permanent visual morbidity occurred in 1 patient (0.9%). Among the 101 patients who had angiographic follow-up, the Raymond-Roy occlusion classifications were I (complete aneurysm occlusion) in 85 (84.2%), II (residual neck) in 11 (10.9%), and III (residual aneurysm) in 5 (4.9%).

CONCLUSION:

In our experience, flow diversion for ICA ophthalmic segment aneurysms resulted in low rates of visual morbidity, which was mostly transient in occurrence.
Neuromuscular Plantar Flexor Performance of Sprinters versus Physically Active Individuals
Authors: CROTTY EVAN D. , FURLONG LAURA-ANNE M. , HARRISON ANDREW J.
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Comparison of the neuromuscular performance of different athlete types may give insight into the in vivo variability of these measures and their underpinning mechanisms. The study aims to compare the neuromuscular function of the plantar flexors of sprinters and physically active individuals to assess any differences in explosive force performance.

Methods

Neuromuscular performance of a group of sprinters (highly trained/national level, n = 12; elite/international level, n = 2) and physically active individuals (n = 14) were assessed during involuntary, explosive, and maximum voluntary isometric plantar flexions, across different muscle–tendon unit (MTU) lengths (10° plantarflexion, 0° (anatomical zero/neutral), and 10° dorsiflexion). Plantarflexion rate of torque development (RTD) was measured in three 50-ms time windows from their onset. The synchronous activation of the plantar flexor agonist muscles was calculated as the time difference between 1) the first and last muscle onset and 2) the onsets of the two gastrocnemii muscles. Muscle size and MTU stiffness were assessed using sonograms of the medial gastrocnemius and myotendinous junction.

Results

Sprinters exhibited greater involuntary RTD across time points (0–50 ms, 50–100 ms) and MTU lengths. In addition, sprinters demonstrated greater early phase voluntary RTD (0–50 ms, 50–100 ms) across MTU lengths. Sprinters also demonstrated greater late-phase RTD (100–150 ms), and relative maximal voluntary torque at the DF angle only. The sprinters demonstrated a more synchronous activation of the gastrocnemii muscles. There were no observable differences in muscle size and MTU stiffness between groups.

Conclusions

These findings suggest sprint-specific training could be a contributing factor toward improved explosive performance of the plantar flexors, particularly in the early phase of muscular contraction, evidenced by the greater explosive torque producing capabilities of sprinters.
Assessment of brainstem function and haemodynamics by MRI: challenges and clinical prospects
Authors: Woodward Owen Bleddyn , Driver Ian , Schwarz Stefan Theodor , Hart Emma , Wise Richard
Published: September 2023

MRI offers techniques for non-invasively measuring a range of aspects of brain tissue function. Blood oxygenation level dependent (BOLD) functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) is widely used to assess neural activity, based on the brain’s haemodynamic response, while arterial spin labelling (ASL) MRI is a non-invasive method of quantitatively mapping cerebral perfusion. Both techniques can be applied to measure cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR), an important marker of the health of the cerebrovascular system. BOLD, ASL and CVR have been applied to study a variety of disease processes and are already used in certain clinical circumstances. The brainstem is a critical component of the central nervous system and is implicated in a variety of disease processes. However, its function is difficult to study using MRI because of its small size and susceptibility to physiological noise. In this article, we review the physical and biological underpinnings of BOLD and ASL and their application to measure CVR, discuss the challenges associated with applying them to the brainstem and the opportunities for brainstem MRI in the research and clinical settings. With further optimisation, functional MRI techniques could feasibly be used to assess brainstem haemodynamics and neural activity in the clinical setting.
Inflammation and fibrosis in patients with atrial fibrillation
and heart failure: is there a need for rehabilitation?
Authors: Frîngu Florina , Tomoaia Raluca , Caloian Bogdan , Zdrenghea Dumitru , Irimie Diana , Comsa Horatiu , Simu Gelu , Dădrlat-Pop Alexandra , Pop Dana , Guşetu Gabriel
Published: September 2023

Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is increasingly prevalent among the general
population as well as in those exhibiting heart failure (HF), and the symptomatology
progressively worsens when both conditions are met. The aim of this study was to analyse the role of inflammation and fibrosis biomarkers in patients with AF and HF.

Methods: 108 subjects with heart failure were enrolled in the study. All patients were
evaluated clinically, biologically and echocardiographically. Plasma values of NTproBNP, Gal-3 and sST2 were determined.

Results: Out of all patients, 64.8% experienced at least one AF event. There were no
differences in the mean left ventricular ejection fraction between the groups, which was
39.4 ± 11.2%. In terms of left atrium dimensions, the values in the AF group were
significantly higher ( 51.19 ± 7.3 vs. 44.68 ± 7.16 mm, p<0.001). AF history was associated
with a trend of decreased eGFR - 59,22±24,1 ml/min/1.73m3 vs 75,95±29,1 ml/min/1.73m3(p=0.006). There was no statistically significant difference in the level of HF biomarkers
(sST2, Galectin-3 and NT-pro BNP) between individuals with or without AF.
Conclusion: Patients with HF are at greater risk to develop AF. HF biomarkers (sST2,
Galectin-3 and NT-pro BNP) are not influenced by the presence of AF.
Πρόβλεψη παροξυσμών κολπικής μαρμαρυγής μετά από κυκλοτερή απομόνωση των πνευμονικών φλεβών με αναίμακτες τεχνικές
Authors: Ταχματζίδης Δημήτριος
Published: September 2023

Η απομόνωση των πνευμονικών φλεβών αποτελεί βασική επιλογή για την αντιμετώπιση της κολπικής μαρμαρυγής (Κ.Μ.). Η ανεύρεση των ασθενών εκείνων που εμφανίζουν αυξημένη πιθανότητα υποτροπής της αρρυθμίας μετά από μια τέτοια επέμβαση είναι θεμελιώδους σημασίας. Η παρούσα προοπτική μελέτη παρατήρησης στοχεύει στην αξιολόγηση ενός νεότερου δείκτη του κύματος P, που σχεδιάστηκε για την εντόπιση ασθενών με χαμηλό φορτίο Κ.Μ. και βασίζεται στην από παλμό σε παλμό (beat-to-beat, B2B) μορφολογική και κυματιδιακή ανάλυση, ως προγνωστικού δείκτη υποτροπής της Κ.Μ. ένα έτος μετά από επιτυχή επέμβαση κατάλυσης. Στη μελέτη συμμετείχαν συνολικά 138 ασθενείς που προγραμματίστηκαν για κατάλυση Κ.Μ. Από τους ασθενείς αυτούς ελήφθησαν ηλεκτροκαρδιογραφήματα 12 απαγωγών καθώς και δεκάλεπτες ανυσματοκαρδιογραφικές καταγραφές για τον υπολογισμό των κλασσικών ηλεκτροκαρδιογραφικών δεικτών καθώς και του B2B δείκτη. Επίσης διερευνήθηκε το ιστορικό των ασθενών και καταγράφηκαν διάφορες κλινικές παράμετροι και score που έχουν αξιολογηθεί στο παρελθόν ως ικανά να προβλέπουν την πιθανότητα υποτροπής της Κ.Μ. Παράλληλα, με τη χρήση διαθωρακικής ηχοκαρδιογραφίας εκτιμήθηκαν κλασικές ηχοκαρδιογραφικές παράμετροι. Η μονοπαραμετρική ανάλυση αποκάλυψε ότι οι ασθενείς με υψηλότερο B2B δείκτη εμφανίζουν διπλάσιο κίνδυνο για υποτροπή της Κ.Μ. (HR: 2.35, 95% CI: 1.24–4.44, p: 0.010). Επιπλέον, η παρατεταμένη διάρκεια του κύματος P, ο διακολπικός αποκλεισμός, η πρώιμη υποτροπή της Κ.Μ, το γυναικείο φύλο, το ιστορικό καρδιακής ανεπάρκειας, το ιστορικό παλαιού αγγειακού εγκεφαλικού επεισοδίου και CHA2DS2-VASc score μεγαλύτερο ή ίσο με 2 επίσης αποτελούν παράγοντες κινδύνου. Από την πολυπαραμετρική ανάλυση των χαρακτηριστικών που μπορούν να είναι διαθέσιμα πριν την επέμβαση κατάλυσης προκύπτει ότι ο B2B δείκτης, μαζί με το ιστορικό καρδιακής ανεπάρκειας και παλαιότερου εγκεφαλικού επεισοδίου αποτελούν ανεξάρτητους προγνωστικούς παράγοντες. Συμπερασματικά, η B2B μορφολογική και κυματιδιακή ανάλυση του κύματος P αποτελεί εν δυνάμει ένα κλινικό εργαλείο ικανό να προβλέπει με επιτυχία την πιθανότητα υποτροπής της Κ.Μ. εντός ενός έτους από την επέμβαση κατάλυσης. Περαιτέρω μελέτες είναι απαραίτητες για την εκτίμηση της προγνωστικής ικανότητας του συγκεκριμένου δείκτη με μεγαλύτερη ακρίβεια καθώς και για τη διερεύνηση μιας πιθανή συσχέτισής του με δείκτες δομικής και λειτουργικής αναδιαμόρφωσης του κολπικού υποστρώματος.
Mitigation of cyber attacks in wearable devices
Authors: Καζλούσκι Ανδρέας
Published: September 2023

Η αγορά των έξυπνων ρολογιών, και των έξυπνων συσκευών γενικότερα, αυξάνεται αδιάκοπα, έχοντας φτάσει σε ανεπανάληπτους αριθμούς πωλήσεων κατά τα δύο πρώτα χρόνια της πανδημίας του COVID-19. Αυτή τη στιγμή, εκατομμύρια ή ακόμη και δισεκατομμύρια χρήστες παγκοσμίως χρησιμοποιούν τέτοιες συσκευές για να παρακολουθούν τις προσωπικές τους δραστηριότητες (π.χ. άθληση, ύπνο, περπάτημα, κλπ.) είκοσι τέσσερις ώρες το εικοσιτετράωρο και επτά μέρες την εβδομάδα. Ωστόσο, η γρήγορη διάδοση αυτών των συσκευών δεν συνοδεύεται απαραίτητα από επαρκή προστασία ασφαλείας και προστασία της ιδιωτικότητας της ραγδαία αυξανόμενης βάσης χρηστών τους. Σε αυτή τη διατριβή, ερευνούμε εάν η χρήση αυτών των συσκευών μπορεί να οδηγήσει σε σημαντική απώλεια της ιδιωτικότητας. Ειδικότερα, εξετάζουμε δύο πτυχές αυτών των συσκευών: (1) τις συσκευές μέσα στο σχετικό οικοσύστημά τους σε συνδυασμό με το λογισμικό που χρησιμοποιούν, και (2) τα δεδομένα που παράγουν. Δείχνουμε ότι ιδιωτικές πληροφορίες των χρηστών μπορούν να εξαχθούν, όταν οι συσκευές μεταδίδουν τα συλλεγόμενα δεδομένα στη μόνιμη αποθήκευση του κατασκευαστή τους. Τέτοιες πληροφορίες περιλαμβάνουν (1) πόσο συχνά ασκούνται οι χρήστες (2) ποιος είναι ο παλμός τηςκαρδιάς τους, (3) εάν αντιμετωπίζουν προβλήματα ύπνου, (4) αν είναι υπέρβαροι, κλπ. Παράλληλα δείχνουμε ότι αυτές οι συσκευές επικοινωνούν με ιστοσελίδες που ανήκουν σε τρίτες οντότητες (όχι στον κατασκευαστή της συσκευής) και στέλνουν δεδομένα σε αυτές τις ιστοσελίδες. Επιπλέον, δείχνουμε ότι η κοινοποίηση δεδομένων που δημιουργούνται από αυτές τις συσκευές, μπορεί να οδηγήσει σε σημαντική αποκάλυψη προσωπικών δεδομένων και ακόμη και πλήρη επαναταυτοποίηση των χρηστών. Κατέχοντας πολύ περιορισμένες ποσότητες δεδομένων από αυτές τις συσκευές, μια επιδέξια εχθρική πλευρά μπορεί να αποκτήσει πληροφορίες σχετικά με το φύλο, το βάρος και το ύψος του χρήστη και ακόμη και να ανακατασκευάσει ένα ‘αποτύπωμα της συσκευής’ – ένα μοναδικό μοτίβο καθημερινής ρουτίνας. Για να αντιμετωπιστούν οι απειλές που αναφέρθηκαν, προτείνουμε μια μεθοδολογία για τον αποκλεισμό ανεπιθύμητων συνδέσεων αυτών των συσκευών, περιορίζοντας σοβαρά τις δυνατότητες διαρροής προσωπικών πληροφοριών. Παρουσιάζουμε επίσης οδηγίες για την διατήρηση της ιδιωτικότητας κατά τη δημοσίευση δεδομένων αυτών των συσκευών, τόσο από τους κανονικούς χρήστες όσο και από τους ελεγκτές δεδομένων, οι οποίοι συγκεντρώνουν αυτές τις πληροφορίες σε σύνολα δεδομένων. Επισημαίνουμε ότι όλοι οι προτεινόμενοι μηχανισμοί άμυνας μπορούν εύκολα να χρησιμοποιηθούν από κανονικούς χρήστες με περιορισμένες τεχνικές γνώσεις και δεν απαιτούν επιπλέον εξοπλισμό.
Προδιαθεσικοί παράγοντες για ανάπτυξη ΧΑΠ (Χρόνιας Αποφρακτικής Πνευμονοπάθειας) σε νεαρούς καπνιστές και παθητικούς καπνιστές
Authors: Γάκη Ελένη
Published: September 2023

ΣΚΟΠΟΣ: Ο προσδιορισμός των κοινωνικοοικονομικών, δημογραφικών και περιβαλλοντικών παραγόντων καθώς και του τρόπου ζωής της ελληνικής οικογένειας, που ενδεχόμενα διαμορφώνουν το βαθμό του παθητικού και ενεργητικού καπνίσματος στους εφήβους – μαθητές των επαγγελματικών λυκείων. ΥΛΙΚΟ ΚΑΙ ΜΕΘΟΔΟΣ: Στο δείγμα συμμετείχαν 265 μαθητές τεχνικών επαγγελματικών λυκείων του νομού Αχαΐας, οι οποίοι ελέγχθηκαν σπιρομετρικά (η μέγιστη % εκπνευστική ροή -PEF,pred79%, η βίαιη ζωτική χωρητικότητα - FVC και ο βιαίως εκπνεόμενος όγκος στο 1οδευτ. -FEV1.pred80%) και απάντησαν σε ερωτηματολόγιο, το οποίο βασίζεται στα εργαλεία της Global Youth Tobacco Survey. ΑΠΟΤΕΛΕΣΜΑΤΑ: Το 61,2% του δείγματος ήταν άνδρες, οι περισσότεροι ηλικίας 14-18 ετών και με ποσοστό καπνιστών 81,1%. Ως ανεξάρτητοι προγνωστικοί παράγοντες του PEF εκτιμήθηκαν η ηλικία, η ηλικία έναρξης του καπνίσματος, το ενεργητικό ή παθητικό κάπνισμα, η κατοικία και ο αριθμός των τσιγάρων (p/y). Οι καπνιστές και εκείνοι που βρίσκονταν στο τέλος της εφηβείας τους είχαν επίσης χαμηλότερο FEV1 (% pred). Ενδιαφέρον φαίνεται το γεγονός ότι παρά την αναπνευστική δυσχέρεια, την εν γένει όχι καλή φυσική κατάσταση και τη συνολική χαμηλή ποιότητα ζωής, η δημοφιλία και η κοινωνικότητα αυτών των μαθητών παραμένει υψηλή. Η μέγιστη % εκπνευστική ροή (PEF,pred79%), η βίαιη ζωτική χωρητικότητα και ο βιαίως εκπνεόμενος όγκος στο 1ο δευτ.(FEV1.pred80%) ήταν οι λειτουργικές παράμετροι του αναπνευστικού που διέφεραν λίαν στατιστικά σημαντικά μεταξύ καπνιστών και μη καπνιστών (p<0,001). ΣΥΜΠΕΡΑΣΜΑΤΑ: Φαίνεται ότι στους νεαρούς καπνιστές – μαθητές των επαγγελματικών λυκείων η αναπνευστική λειτουργία τους έχει μειωθεί αρκετά νωρίς χρονικά στη ζωή τους, συνεπώς οι άμεσες προληπτικές παρεμβάσεις στη δευτεροβάθμια εκπαίδευση είναι αναγκαίες. Έτσι οι μαθητές μέσα από τη συμμετοχή τους σε διαδραστικά προγράμματα θα αποκτήσουν, θα συμπληρώσουν ή θα ανασκευάζουν τις γνώσεις και αντιλήψεις τους, αναπτύσσοντας και ενδυναμώνοντας αντικαπνιστικές στάσεις, καλλιεργώντας αξίες και συμπεριφορές θετικές ως προς την υγεία.
Ο ρόλος του ογκοκατασταλτικού γονιδίου Cyld στην ομοιόσταση των λιπιδίων
Authors: Γωνίδας Χρήστος
Published: September 2023

Η πρωτεΐνη CYLD είναι προϊόν του γονιδίου Cyld και έχει χαρακτηριστεί ως μια ογκοκατασταλτική απoουβικουιτινάση που εξειδικεύεται στην υδρόλυση αλυσίδων πολυουβικουιτίνης διασυνδεόμενων μέσω λυσίνης 63 ή μεθειονίνης 1. Μεταλλάξεις του Cyld έχουν συσχετιστεί με διάφορους τύπους καρκίνου. Η CYLD ρυθμίζει ένα φάσμα από φυσιολογικές διεργασίες, συμπεριλαμβανομένων του κυτταρικού κύκλου, του προγραμματισμένου κυτταρικού θανάτου και διαφόρων αναπτυξιακών διεργασιών. Καλά χαρακτηρισμένος είναι ο ρόλος της CYLD στη ρύθμιση ανοσοαποκρίσεων και μηχανισμών φλεγμονής. Στόχος αυτής της διατριβής ήταν η διερεύνηση του ρόλου της CYLD στην ομοιόσταση του λιπώδους ιστού και τη λιπογένεση. Η in vitro ανάλυση αυτών των φαινομένων έγινε με την ανάπτυξη κυτταρικών σειρών προλιποκυττάρων, καρκινικών ηπατοκυττάρων και κυττάρων σμηγματογόνου αδένα που χαρακτηρίζονταν από επαγόμενη υπερέκφραση της φυσιολογικής ή καταλυτικά ανενεργής CYLD ή από απαλοιφή της έκφρασής της, με χρήση των συστημάτων pInducer20 και CRISPR/Cas9 αντίστοιχα. Οι αναλύσεις που αφορούσαν το λιπώδη ιστό πραγματοποιήθηκαν σε διαγονιδιακούς μύες που χαρακτηρίζονταν από στοχευμένη στο λιπώδη ιστό απαλοιφή του εξωνίου 9 του Cyld, που κωδικοποιεί για την καταλυτική επικράτειά της πρωτεΐνης CYLD, με χρήση του συστήματος Cre-loxP. Παρατηρήθηκε υψηλή αποδοτικότητα διαφοροποίησης προλιποκυττάρων προς λιποκύτταρα, χωρίς ωστόσο να προκύπτει στατιστικά σημαντική συσχέτιση μεταξύ της αποδοτικότητας διαφοροποίησης και των επιπέδων έκφρασης της CYLD. Στα κυτταρικά μοντέλα λιπογένεσης παρατηρήθηκε αυξημένη συσσώρευση λιπιδίων κατόπιν διέγερσης της αποταμίευσής τους. Η έκφραση της CYLD δεν φάνηκε να συνδέεται σε στατιστικά σημαντικό βαθμό με τα ενδοκυτταρικά επίπεδα λιπιδίων στις κυτταρικές σειρές που μελετήθηκαν. Η ανάλυση του ρόλου της CYLD στην ομοιόσταση του λιπώδους ιστού μυών ανέδειξε πιθανή εμπλοκή της στην ρύθμιση μηχανισμών φλεγμονής ή/και κυτταρικής επιβίωσης τόσο σε φυσιολογικές συνθήκες, όσο και σε συνθήκες που προωθούν την ανάπτυξη παχυσαρκίας με χρήση ειδικών τροφών. Οι σχετικές ενδείξεις αφορούν διαφορές στην έκφραση προφλεγμονωδών χημειοκινών και τη στρατολόγηση μακροφάγων στο λιπώδη ιστό που δημιουργούν δομές που προσομοιάζουν σε στέμμα (crown-like structures). Δεδομένου του ρόλου της χρόνιας φλεγμονής του λιπώδους ιστού στην ανάπτυξη νοσηροτήτων που σχετίζονται με το μεταβολικό σύνδρομο, η περεταίρω ανάλυση των μηχανισμών μέσω των οποίων η CYLD ρυθμίζει την ανάπτυξη φλεγμονής στο λιπώδη ιστό μπορεί να αναδείξει νέες οδούς μέσω των οποίων συσχετίζεται η παχυσαρκία με τη φλεγμονή και να επεκτείνει τις δυνατότητες ανάπτυξης νέων θεραπευτικών προσεγγίσεων.
H εκκλησιαστική αργυροχοΐα στη Ζάκυνθο (17ος-19ος αι.)
Authors: Λυκογιάννης Διονύσιος
Published: September 2023

Η εκκλησιαστική αργυροχοΐα στη Ζάκυνθο από τον 17ο έως τον 19ο αιώνα επηρεάζεται από την παρουσία διαφόρων προσφύγων αργυροχόων από την Κρήτη, την Πελοπόννησο και την Ήπειρο, οι οποίοι προσάρμοσαν τις καλλιτεχνικές τους καταβολές με τα πολιτιστικά δεδομένα της Ζακύνθου. Οι οικογένειες των Μιλατιανών και του Μπάφα, είναι αυτές που κυρίως σφράγισαν με τα έργα τους την τέχνη της αργυροχοΐας στη Ζάκυνθο τον 18ο και 19ο αιώνα, εκφράζοντας το μπαρόκ, ροκοκό και νεοκλασικό ύφος στις δημιουργίες τους. Στην παρούσα εργασία εκτός από την οργάνωση και λειτουργία της τέχνης της αργυροχοΐας στη Ζάκυνθο, παρατίθενται αλφαβητικός κατάλογος των αργυροχόων καθώς και κατάλογος των σφραγίδων, που εντοπίστηκαν είτε στις αρχειακές πηγές είτε στα ίδια τα αργυρά αντικείμενα.
Public engagement with genomics
Authors: Middleton Anna , Adams Avery , Aidid Hugbaad , Atutornu Jerome , Boraschi Daniela , Borra Julian , Bircan Tuba , Burch Claudette , Costa Alessia , Dickinson Anna , Enticknap Ann , Galloway Catherine , Gale Francesca , Garlick Emma , Haydon Em , Henriques Sasha , Mitchell Marion , Milne Richard , Monaghan Jack , Morley Katherine I , Muella Santos Milena , Olivares Boldu Laura , Olumogba Fifi , Orviss Kate , Parry Vivienne , Patch Christine , Robarts Lauren , Shingles Sam , Smidt Cindy , Tomlin Ben , Parkinson Sarah
Published: September 2023

As detailed in its flagship report, Genome UK, the UK government recognises the vital role that broad public engagement across whole populations plays in the field of genomics. However, there is limited evidence about how to do this at scale. Most public audiences do not feel actively connected to science, are often unsure of the relevance to their lives and rarely talk to their family and friends about it; we term this dis-connection a ‘disengaged public audience’. We use a narrative review to explore: (i) UK attitudes towards genetics and genomics and what may influence reluctance to engage with these topics; (ii) innovative public engagement approaches that have been used to bring diverse public audiences into conversations about the technology. Whilst we have found some novel engagement methods that have used participatory arts, film, social media and deliberative methods, there is no clear agreement on best practice. We did not find a consistently used, evidence-based strategy for delivering public engagement about genomics across diverse and broad populations, nor a specific method that is known to encourage engagement from groups that have historically felt (in terms of perception) and been (in reality) excluded from genomic research. We argue there is a need for well-defined, tailor-made engagement strategies that clearly articulate the audience, the purpose and the proposed impact of the engagement intervention. This needs to be coupled with robust evaluation frameworks to build the evidence-base for population-level engagement strategies.
ANOMALIES IN AN ADVERTISING TEXT (ON THE EXAMPLE OF THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE)
Authors: Massalskaya Yuliya V. , Nikolaeva Anastasiya V.
Published: September 2023

This article is devoted to anomalies, i.e. non-standard ways of using vocabulary in advertising texts, by means of which the communication is carried out. The interest in the study of the mechanisms of speech impact made this study relevant. The novelty of this study lies in insufficient research on anomalies in the language of advertising. The hypothesis of this study was the assumption that speech anomalies could be used in advertising texts, since they had been previously studied in fiction and article writing.

The aim of the article is to demonstrate examples of non-standard, occasional use of the English language means in the texts of commercial advertising. In order to achieve it the following tasks were set: to describe the principles according to which a word, phrase or other formation can be considered anomalous; to find examples and systematize the types of anomalies used by copywriters in English-language advertising texts.

Materials and methods. The material for the study involved the texts selected by random sampling from printed periodicals and online stores. To prove the logical or illogical use of words, we applied the analysis of semantic meaning, i.e. decomposition of meaning into components, as well as morphological analysis of word forms. These methods involve the use of English-English thesauri. At the sentence level, syntactic analysis was used.

Results. The analysis showed that the examples of anomalous use of the vocabulary can be reduced to three groups: lexical-semantic, morphological and syntactic. As a result, we managed to show that the most numerous group is the first one, which includes examples of illogical combinations on the principle of animate-inanimate, incorrect designation of quality, concrete-abstract, violations of stylistic combination of words, as well as deformation of phraseological units. The second group is represented by morphological violations of word-formation patterns, simple conjunction of bases, changes in spelling. The third group – syntactic anomalies – is represented by examples of violations in cohesion and split infinitive.

Practical implications. The results can be used by copywriters, marketers, who compose advertising texts not only in English, but also in Russian.