bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A case report: anteroseptal ST elevation due to acute isolated right ventricular infarction
Authors: Sukmawati Indah , Goh Fang Qin , Yip Alfred , Loh Poay Huan , Chan Koo Hui
Published: July 2023

Background

Electrocardiogram (ECG) is the first diagnostic tool physicians use in diagnosing acute myocardial infarction (MI). In this case report, we present a case where the initial ECG diagnosis was that of an acute anteroseptal MI but emergency coronary angiography showed that the infarct-related artery was a small non-dominant right coronary artery (RCA) instead of the anticipated left anterior descending artery (LAD). Isolated right ventricular (RV) infarction from a non-dominant RCA is rarely seen in clinical practice, and it may exhibit ECG changes that can be confused with an acute anteroseptal MI. It is important to appreciate the subtle differences in the ECG changes that occur in either of these two types of MI for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

Case presentation

A 49-year-old non-smoking male with prior coronary stent implantation in LAD presented with acute chest pain and his pre-hospital ECG indicated an anteroseptal STEMI possibly due to stent thrombosis, but an emergency angiogram showed patent LAD and Circumflex arteries. There was however thrombotic occlusion of the right, non-dominant coronary artery, which was revascularized with a drug-eluting stent. The patient’s chest pain and ST elevations resolved, and subsequent echo showed moderate RV systolic dysfunction in keeping with RV myocardial infarction.

Discussion

RV myocardial infarction is usually due to an occlusion of the dominant RCA proximal to the origin of its RV wall branch, which often results in inferior ST elevation with reciprocal anterior ST depression. The ST elevation over V1 which would accompany RV infarction is often masked due to the more dominant electrical forces of inferior and posterior LV wall infarction. Our case demonstrates that in isolated RV infarction due to non-dominant proximal RCA occlusion, anterior ST elevation can be seen over V1-3, being most prominent in V1, which overlies the right ventricle, and resolved after restoring flow to the RCA. Spatial vector analysis of the ECG or right-sided ECG leads would be helpful to aid the diagnosis of RV infarction when clinical suspicion is present, for example when there is significant hypotension, raised jugular venous pressure but clear lung fields or deterioration after nitrate administration.
The Presence of Diabetes Mellitus or Pre-diabetes Mellitus Increases Mortality from Heart Disease in a Taiwanese Population: A 10-year Follow-Up Study
Authors: Tsai Hsuan-Chih , Hsu Po-Sheng , Pan Lung-Fa , Hung Chia-Lien , Yang Deng-Ho , Hung Kuang-Chen , Liao Chun-Cheng
Published: July 2023

Background

We evaluated hyperglycemia-associated mortality in the Taiwanese population by conducting a 10-year retrospective cohort study. Methods: From 2007 to 2017, all participants, regardless of their age or underlying diseases, were identified at a Health Screening Center in Taiwan. Overall, 114,534 participants were included in the analysis. They were classified into three subgroups according to glycemia and smoking status by combining survival for data analysis. Results: The mean follow-up time, age, and body mass index (BMI) were 8.14 ± 2.22 years, 40.95 ± 12.14 years, and 23.24 ± 3.65 kg/m2, respectively. The cumulative death rate increased from 0.9% in the normal fasting blood glucose(FBG) subgroup to approximately 6% in the diabetes FBG subgroup. After adjusting for age, gender, BMI, high-density lipoprotein, triglycerides, waist circumference(WC), and smoking status, the hazard ratio (HR) for all-cause, cancer, and heart disease mortality in the diabetes mellitus(DM) subgroup was 1.560, 1.381, and 1.828, respectively.HR was 0.989 in all-cause, 0.940 in cancer, and 1.326 in heart disease in the pre-DM subgroup.

Conclusion

Being tested for pre-DM is related to a higher risk of death from heart disease in the Taiwanese population at baseline. Therefore, cardiovascular risk must be actively measured among diabetes patients every visit.
Clinical and imaging differences between Stanford Type B intramural hematoma-like lesions and classic aortic dissection
Authors: Wei Chuanbin , Li Jinping , Du Enhui , Miao Yulu , Li Pinpin , Guan Wenhua
Published: July 2023

Background

Intramural hematoma (IMH) and Aortic dissection (AD) have overlapping features. The aim of this study was to explore the differences between them by comparing the clinical manifestations and imaging features of patients with acute Stanford type B IMH-like lesions and acute Stanford type B AD (ATBAD).

Methods

This study retrospectively analysed the clinical and computed tomography angiography (CTA) imaging data of 42 IMH-like lesions patients with ulcer-like projection (ULP) and 38 ATBAD patients, and compared their clinical and imaging features.

Results

(1) The IMH-like lesions patients were older than the ATBAD patients (64.2 ± 11.5 vs. 50.9 ± 12.2 years, P < 0.001). The D-dimer level in the IMH-like lesions group was significantly higher than that in the ATBAD group (11.2 ± 3.6 vs. 9.2 ± 4.5 mg/L, P < 0.05). The incidence rate of back pain was significantly higher in the ATBAD group than in the IMH-like lesions group (71.1% vs. 26.2%, P < 0.05). (2) The ULPs of IMH-like lesions and the intimal tears of ATBAD were concentrated in zone 4 of the descending thoracic aorta. The ULPs of IMH-like lesions and the intimal tears of ATBAD were mainly in the upper quadrant outside the lumen (64.3% vs. 65.8%, P > 0.05). (3) The maximum diameter of the ULPs in IMH-like lesions was smaller than that of the intimal tears in ATBAD (7.4 ± 3.4 vs. 10.8 ± 6.8 mm, P = 0.005). The lumen compression ratio in the ULPs plane and the maximum compression ratio of the aortic lumen in the IMH-like lesions group were smaller than that in the ADBAD group (P < 0.05). Fewer aortic segments were involved in IMH-like lesions patients than in ATBAD patients (5.6 ± 2.2 vs. 7.1 ± 1.9 segments, P < 0.005). The IMH-like lesions group had less branch involvement than that of the ATBAD group (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The degree of intimal tears, lumen compression ratio, extent of lesion involvement, and impact on branch arteries in ATBAD are more severe than that of IMH-like lesions. But for the ULPs of IMH-like lesions and intimal tears of ATBAD, they have astonishing similarities in the location of the partition and the lumen quadrant, we have reason to believe that intimal tear is the initial factor in the pathogenesis of this kind of disease, and their clinical and imaging manifestations overlap, but the severity is different. Concerning similarities between these two conditions, these two may be a spectrum of one disease.
Where do we look for the next breakthrough in sleep research?
Authors: Viganò Alessandro , Ghareghani Majid , Mallick Birendra , Russo Simone
Published: July 2023

The wakefulness-sleep cycle sets the pace of our life. Sleep research examines the transition between wakefulness and sleep, its hormonal regulation, and its pathological disruption. Understanding sleep mechanisms would improve quality-of-life well beyond sleep itself. To this aim, we invite contributions for the Collection “sleep physiology and circadian rhythms”.
Clinical value of circulating tumor cells and hematological parameters in 617 Chinese patients with colorectal cancer: retrospective analysis
Authors: He Yuhao , He Xinxin , Zhou Yubo , Luo Shanshan
Published: July 2023

Background

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) have been a non-invasive technique which allows investigation of tumor characteristics. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between circulating tumor cells and colorectal cancer.

Methods

The clinical data of 617 patients with colorectal cancer from October 2019 to March 2022 were retrospectively collected to analyze the correlation between CTCs and clinicopathologic characteristics.

Results

The CTCs value increased with the progression of Tumor(T) stage,Metastasis(M) stage and Tumor Node Metastasis(TNM) stage (P < 0.05), but not with Node (N) stage (P > 0.05). Binary logistic regression analysis showed that CTCs, CEA, CA125 and CA199 were independent risk factors for CRC metastasis. Compared with CTCs, CEA, CA125 and CA199, the Logistic model had the highest AUC (AUC = 0.778,95%CI: 0.732–0.824), and the specificity and sensitivity were 82.9% and 63.2%, respectively. After operation, chemo-radiotherapy and other treatment for CRC, CTCs and CEA were significantly decreased compared with before treatment (P < 0.05). In addition, Spearman Correlation showed significant correlation between CTCs and IgG (P = 0.000).

Conclusion

CTCs, CEA, CA125 and CA199 were independent risk factors for CRC metastasis.CTCs can be used for the prediction of tumur metastasis, and the evaluation of therapeutic effect.
Prevalence and clinical correlates of psychotic symptoms in first-episode untreated female chinese patients with major depressive disorder
Authors: Peng Ruijie , Zhang Xiaobin , Li Ronghua , Zhang Guangya , Yue Yan , Wu Siqi , Wu Yuxuan , Yang Ruchang , Zhou Yue , Du Xiangdong , Zhang Xiangyang
Published: July 2023

Background

Recent studies have reported that psychotic symptoms are common in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD). However, few studies have reported the relationship between thyroid function, lipid metabolism and clinical profiles in female MDD patients. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the prevalence of psychotic depression (PD) and its risk factors in first-episode and drug naive (FEDN) depression among the female population in China.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study involving a representative probability sample of 1,130 FEDN female outpatients with MDD (aged 18 years or older) in China. We collected information relating to socio-demographic characteristics, clinical data and blood samples. The Hamilton Depression Rating Scale 17-item version (HAMD-17), Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale 14-item version (HAMA-14), and Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) were used to evaluate depressive, anxiety, and psychotic symptoms.

Results

The prevalence of psychotic symptoms in female MDD patients was 10.97%. The findings revealed significant differences between MDD female patients with psychotic symptoms and non-PD female patients in the following areas: higher HAMD scores, higher HAMA scores, more severe anxiety and an increased risk of suicide attempts. Further logistic regression analysis showed that psychotic symptoms were associated with higher thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels and an odds ratio of 1.168.

Conclusions

Our findings supported the hypothesis that higher TSH levels were correlated with psychotic symptoms in female MDD patients. Therefore, serum TSH levels may be a potential biomarker of PD in female MDD patients. In addition, we found that PD was closely associated with suicide attempts and lipid levels, but did not reach statistical significance.
Problematic media use is associated with poor oral health in Turkish school-age children: a pilot cross-sectional study
Authors: Mustuloğlu Şeyma , Tezol Özlem
Published: July 2023

Objectives

In the recent years, problematic media use (PMU) has become a serious health concern for children. The precisely defined effects of PMU on children’s oral health are unknown. It was aimed to investigate the relationship between the PMU and oral health and oral habits in school-age children.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, mothers and their healthy children aged 6–11 years who applied to pediatric dentistry outpatient clinic were enrolled. PMU was assessed using the parent-reported Problematic Media Use Measure Short Form (PMUM-SF). PMUM-SF scores were divided into 3 groups from the lowest to the highest tertile. Multivariable logistic regressions for PMU (moderate-high vs. low) were used to predict the odds of having good and parafunctional oral habits, poor oral hygiene, gingivitis and caries.

Results

Totally 153 mother–child pairs participated in this study. Plaque index, gingival index, ICDAS-II (International Caries Detection and Evaluation System), DMFT and DMFS [decayed (D), missing (M), filled (F) tooth (T) /surfaces (S)] scores were significantly higher in children with moderate-high PMU (P < 0.05). After adjusting for potential confounders, moderate-high PMU decreased the probability of good oral habit of daily toothbrushing [Odds (95% CI) = 0.43 (0.20–0.94)] while it increased the risk of oral parafunctional habit of object sucking/biting [Odds (95% CI) = 3.34 (1.27–8.74)]. Moderate-high PMU increased the risk of moderate-severe gingivitis, moderate-extensive caries and the presence of DMFT [Odds (95% CI) = 2.13 (1.01–4.50); 4.54 (1.11–18.54) and 2.16 (1.07–4.36), respectively].

Conclusions

Turkish school-age children with a remarkable PMU were significantly more likely to have poor oral health and exhibit oral parafunctional habits Oral health screening seems to be needed for Turkish children experiencing PMU.
Analysis of the information ability of nurses in county hospitals in northern Henan province: a survey
Authors: Li Xizheng , Ma Guirui , Qiao Kuihong , Yan Yuwen , Zhang Huizhong , Zhang Yan
Published: July 2023

Objective

To investigate the status quo of nursing information ability of nurses in county-level hospitals and analyze its influencing factors.

Methods

In June 2022, a total of 303 on-the-job clinical nurses from 3 county-level hospitals in Hebi City, Henan Province were selected as subjects by convenience sampling method. General data questionnaire and self-rating nursing information ability scale were used to investigate them.

Results

The total score of nursing information ability of 303 nurses in county hospitals of Hebi City, Henan Province was (77.72 ± 18.76). There were statistically significant differences in the scores of nursing information ability among different ages, working years, positions, education, marriage, monthly income, whether they had learned computer-related knowledge and skills, and whether they had participated in the learning or training of nursing information system (all p < 0.05).Multiple linear regression analysis showed that age, years, position, monthly income and whether they had learned computer-related knowledge and skills were the main influencing factors of nursing information ability of county-level nurses (all p < 0.05).

Conclusions

The nursing information ability of nurses in county-level hospitals in northern Henan is at a medium level. The government or society should provide training and guidance on nursing information ability, so as to provide more opportunities for nurses in county-level hospitals to participate in and learn nursing information technology to improve their ability.
Changes in expression levels of erythrocyte and immune-related genes are associated with high altitude polycythemia
Authors: Feng Siwei , Wei Gang , Yang Xuelin , Zhang Zhiying , Qu Jingfeng , Wang Donglan , Zhou Tian , Ni Ting , Liu Lijun , Kang Longli
Published: July 2023

Background

As a chronic mountain sickness(CMS) with the highest incidence and the greatest harm, the pathogenesis of high altitude polycythemia (HAPC) is still not fully understood.

Methods

37 HAPC patients and 42 healthy subjects were selected from plateau, and peripheral venous blood samples were collected for transcriptome sequencing on Illumina NovaSeq platform. The sequenced data were analyzed by bioinformatics and phenotypic association analysis.

Results

The results showed significant differences in multiple clinical indicators including RBC and HGB et al. existed between HAPC and control. Based on the RNA-seq data, 550 genes with significant differential expression were identified in HAPC patients. GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis showed that the up-regulated genes were mainly enriched in processes such as erythrocyte differentiation and development and homeostasis of number of cells, while the down-regulated genes were mainly enriched in categories such as immunoglobulin production, classical pathway of complement activation and other biological processes. The coupling analysis of differential expression genes(DEGs) and pathological phenotypes revealed that 91 DEGs were in close correlation with in the phenotype of red blood cell volume distribution (width-CV and width-SD), and they were all up-regulated in HAPC and involved in the process of erythrocyte metabolism. Combined with the functional annotation of DEGs and literature survey, we found that the expression of several potential genes might be responsible for pathogenesis of HAPC. Besides, cell type deconvolution analysis result suggested that the changes in the number of some immune cell types was significantly lower in HAPC patients than control, implying the autoimmune level of HAPC patients was affected to a certain extent.

Conclusion

This study provides an important data source for understanding the pathogenesis and screening pathogenic genes of HAPC. We found for the first time that there was a significant correlation between HAPC and the pathological phenotype of width-CV and width-SD, wherein the enriched genes were all up-regulated expressed and involved in the process of erythrocyte metabolism. Although the role of these genes needs to be further studied, the candidate genes can provide a starting point for functionally pinning down the underlying mechanism of HAPC.
Dosimetric characteristics of 6MV flattening filter free and flattened beams among beam-matched linacs: a three-institutional study
Authors: Ghemiș Diana M. , Marcu Loredana G. , Virag Vasile , Virag Adriana
Published: July 2023

Background

Beam matching is a concept in radiotherapy applied to clinics where more than one linac is employed to harmonise beam characteristics across linacs for allowing patients interchange without replanning. In view of this, the current study analyzes and compares dosimetric characteristics of 6MV flattening filter free and flattened beams of three beam-matched linear accelerators (linacs) from three different clinics with the aim to evaluate the matching under tight criteria for gamma analysis.

Methods

Three Elekta linacs from three different clinics were included. The linacs have the same collimator assembly, Elekta Agility. Beam data were collected during commissioning process using PTW dosimetry systems. Dose profiles and percentage depth doses (PDD) were analyzed using 1D gamma analysis (1 mm/1%) as well as the following parameters: depth of maximum dose, PDD10, flatness, unflattnes, symmetry, penumbra, output factors. Additionally, five stereotactic treatment plans were optimized in one clinic and calculated by all three planning systems (Monaco) for a dosimetric comparison.

Results

Gamma analysis of dose profiles and PDDs showed clinically acceptable results of 96.3% passing rate for profiles and 100% passing rate for PDDs. All dosimetric parameters were in good agreement with the reference data. Furthermore, dosimetric comparisons between stereotactic treatment plans showed a maximum standard deviation of 0.48 Gy for the maximum dose to PTV, and a maximum standard deviation of 0.1 Gy for the dose to the organs at risk.

Conclusions

All three linacs showed a strong agreement between parameters and passed the gamma analysis using 1% DD/1mm DTA criteria. This study confirmed the matching between linacs, offering the possibility to interchange patients with no replanning.
Elderly hip fracture patients with isolated calf muscle vein thrombosis are more likely to have suffered an intertrochanteric fracture and be hypertensive
Authors: Jin Lin , Dong Lei , Zhu Yanbin , Li Xiuting , Hou Zhiyong , Zhang Yingze
Published: July 2023

Purpose

This study aimed to characterize the preoperative deep venous thrombosis (DVT) of lower extremity by locations and evaluate the diagnostic ability of plasma D-dimer level in elderly patients with hip fracture.

Method

This retrospective study reviewed the elderly patients presenting with a hip fracture definitely undergoing surgical treatment and identified those who had preoperative DVT. Data on demographics, lifestyle habits, comorbidities and laboratory indexes were extracted and collected. Four groups were divided by presence and locations of thrombi: non-DVT (controls), isolated calf muscle vein thrombosis (CMVT), deep calf vein thrombosis (DCVT) and proximal DVT group. The comparisons were conducted between either DVT group or the non-DVT group. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and the area under the curve (AUC) were used for determining the diagnostic ability of D-dimer for each group.

Results

Among 951 eligible patients included, 298 (31.3%) were found have preoperative DVT. Compared to non-DVT group, patients with CMVT had significantly lower albumin and hemoglobin concentration, more likely an intertrochanteric fracture and a higher prevalence of hypertension (P = 0.001, 0.006, 0.002 and 0.024, respectively); DCVT group was not observed to be significantly different in terms of any variables (all P > 0.05); and proximal DVT group had older age and more patients ≥ 80 years, lower albumin and hemoglobin concentration, higher prevalence of hypertension, more likely an intertrochanteric fracture, extended time from injury to imaging examination and higher age-adjusted Charlson comorbidity index (ACCI) (all P < 0.05). D-dimer demonstrated nonsignificant diagnostic ability for CMVT and DCVT, and a significant but poor ability for proximal DVT (AUC, 0.621; 95% CI 0.542–0.710; P = 0.011).

Conclusion

Varying characteristics were found among preoperative DVT stratified by locations after elderly hip fractures, and D-dimer level demonstrated no or poor diagnostic ability for DVTs by locations.

Level of evidence level III, diagnostic.

Trial registration statement Not applicable.
Evaluation of the immunoprotective effects of eight recombinant proteins from Baylisascaris schroederi in mice model
Authors: Xiong Lang , Chen Ling , Chen Yanxin , Shen Nengxing , Hua Ruiqi , Yang Guangyou
Published: July 2023

Background

Baylisascaris schroederi is the most common and harmful intestinal parasitic nematode of giant pandas, causing ascariasis. Although drug deworming is the main measure to control ascariasis in captive giant pandas, prolonged and repeated use of deworming drugs might induce resistance in nematodes and drug residues in giant pandas. Therefore, developing a safe and effective vaccine might provide a novel strategy to prevent ascariasis in captive giant pandas.

Methods

Four highly expressed secretome genes encoding excretory and secretory proteins of B. schroederi, including transthyretin-like protein 46 (BsTLP), uncharacterized protein (BsUP), hypothetical protein 1 (BsHP1), and hypothetical protein 2 (BsHP2) and four functional genes [(encoding Galectin (BsGAL), glutathione S-transferase (BsGST), fatty acid-binding protein (BsFABP), and thioredoxin peroxidase (BsTPX)] were identified based on genome and transcriptome databases of B. schroederi and used to construct recombinant proteins via prokaryotic expression. Kunming mice were vaccinated subcutaneously twice with the recombinant proteins (50 μg/mouse) mixed with Quil A adjuvant with a 2-week interval and then orally challenged with 3000 infective eggs. The immunoprotective effects of the eight recombinant proteins on mice were assessed comprehensively using surface lesion histology scores of the mouse liver and lung, larval worm reduction, serum antibody levels (IgG, IgE, IgA, IgG1, and IgG2a), and cytokine production [interferon gamma (IFN-γ), interleukin (IL)-2, IL-4, IL-5, and IL-10].

Results

Mice vaccinated with recombinant (r)BsUP (76.5%), rBsGAL (74.7%), and rBsHP2 (71.5%) showed a significant (P < 0.001) reduction in the larval worm rate compared with that in the adjuvant control. Besides, the surface lesions in the liver and lung of the vaccinated mice were alleviated. Serum levels of total IgG, IgE, IgA, IgG1, IgG2a, and cytokines, including IL-10, IL-5, and IFN-γ, were significantly higher (P < 0.001) than those in the control group.

Conclusions

The results showed that candidate three vaccines (rBsUP, rBsGAL, and rBsHP2) could provide effective protection against egg infection in mice associated with a mixed Th1/2-type immune response.

Graphical Abstract
Intensity-dependent gamma electrical stimulation regulates microglial activation, reduces beta-amyloid load, and facilitates memory in a mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Liu Qian , Contreras Adam , Afaq Muhammad Shan , Yang Weijian , Hsu Daniel K. , Russell Michael , Lyeth Bruce , Zanto Theodore P. , Zhao Min
Published: July 2023

Background

Gamma sensory stimulation may reduce AD-specific pathology. Yet, the efficacy of alternating electrical current stimulation in animal models of AD is unknown, and prior research has not addressed intensity-dependent effects.

Methods

The intensity-dependent effect of gamma electrical stimulation (GES) with a sinusoidal alternating current at 40 Hz on Aβ clearance and microglia modulation were assessed in 5xFAD mouse hippocampus and cortex, as well as the behavioral performance of the animals with the Morris Water Maze.

Results

One hour of epidural GES delivered over a month significantly (1) reduced Aβ load in the AD brain, (2) increased microglia cell counts, decreased cell body size, increased length of cellular processes of the Iba1 + cells, and (3) improved behavioral performance (learning & memory). All these effects were most pronounced when a higher stimulation current was applied.

Conclusion

The efficacy of GES on the reduction of AD pathology and the intensity-dependent feature provide guidance for the development of this promising therapeutic approach.
Multidimensional biomarkers for multiple system atrophy: an update and future directions
Authors: Wan Linlin , Zhu Sudan , Chen Zhao , Qiu Rong , Tang Beisha , Jiang Hong
Published: July 2023

Multiple system atrophy (MSA) is a fatal progressive neurodegenerative disease. Biomarkers are urgently required for MSA to improve the diagnostic and prognostic accuracy in clinic and facilitate the development and monitoring of disease-modifying therapies. In recent years, significant research efforts have been made in exploring multidimensional biomarkers for MSA. However, currently few biomarkers are available in clinic. In this review, we systematically summarize the latest advances in multidimensional biomarkers for MSA, including biomarkers in fluids, tissues and gut microbiota as well as imaging biomarkers. Future directions for exploration of novel biomarkers and promotion of implementation in clinic are also discussed.
Cytotoxicity of subcritical water extracts obtained from byproducts generated at commercial pecan shelling operations on cancer cells
Authors: Gur Canan Sevimli , Dunford Nurhan Turgut , Gumus Zinar Pinar
Published: July 2023

This study examined potential of the extracts obtained from the byproducts generated at commercial pecan nut-shelling operations in cancer treatment. The subcritical water extracts obtained from two varieties, Native and Pawnee, were analyzed for their phenolic contents and compositions. Effects of the extracts on viability and IC50 of the human cell lines representing a broad range of cancer types, cervical, lung, skin, breast, colon and prostate cancers, were investigated. Although the effect of the temperature on the phenolic contents and compositions of the extracts was not statistically significant, the influence of the variety was extensive. The pecan shell extracts were not cytotoxic to the healthy cell line Vero in the concentration range examined. Some of the pecan shell extracts had greater efficay than Doxorubicin, a drug used in cancer chemotherapy, in reducing cancer cell viability. This study is novel and practical implications of the data generated in this study are noteworthy, because this is the first report on the beneficial effects of subcritical water extracts obtained from pecan shelling industry byproducts on a broad range of cancer cell lines. It is likely that the experimental data presented in this study will support and encourage future research on the biological pathways involved in the interactions of the cancer cells and the extracts. The findings of this study will facilitate research on downstream processing and purification of the crude extracts exhibiting high cancer cell cytotoxcity, potentially improving the final product efficacy and lead to commercial applications.

Graphical Abstract
An introductory review of the thermal structure of subduction zones: I—motivation and selected examples
Authors: van Keken Peter E. , Wilson Cian R.
Published: July 2023

The thermal structure of subduction zones is fundamental to our understanding of 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 part I, the motivation to understand the thermal structure is presented based on experimental and observational studies. This is followed by a description of a selection of thermal models for the Japanese subduction zones.
A case study assessing the impact of mating frequency on the reproductive performance of the Hawaiian bobtail squid Euprymna scolopes
Authors: Cecere Andrew G. , Cook Rachel A. , Miyashiro Tim I.
Published: July 2023

Background

The symbiosis between the Hawaiian bobtail squid Euprymna scolopes and bacterium Vibrio fischeri serves as a model for investigating the molecular mechanisms that promote the initial formation of animal-bacterial symbioses. Research with this system frequently depends on freshly hatched E. scolopes, but the husbandry factors that promote hatchling production in a mariculture facility remain underreported. Here we report on the reproductive performance of E. scolopes in response to decreased mating frequency.

Results

One animal cohort was maintained in a mariculture facility for 107 days, with females assigned to either a control group (mating once every 14 days) or an experimental group (mating once every 21 days). No differences between the groups were observed in survival, the number of egg clutches laid, or hatchling counts. Each group featured multiple females that were hyper-reproductive, i.e., they generated more than 8 egg clutches while in captivity. Examination of the distributions for daily hatchling counts of individual egg clutches revealed significant variation in the hatching patterns among clutches that was independent of mating frequency. Finally, an assessment of hatchling production showed that 93.5% of total hatchlings produced by the cohort were derived from egg clutches laid within the first 70 days.

Conclusions

These results suggest a lower mating frequency does not impede hatchling production. Furthermore, the variation in hatchling production among egg clutches provides new insight into the reproductive performance of E. scolopes as a lab animal for microbiology research.
Mental health attitudes in Malta: a cross-sectional survey exploring the knowledge and perceptions of general practitioner trainees
Authors: Zammit Daniela , Grech Jonathan , Abela Patrick , Mamo David
Published: July 2023

Aims and method

This study aimed to assess current levels of knowledge, opinions and attitudes regarding mental health among the local cohort of general practitioner trainees (n = 45) working in Malta. A questionnaire adapted from the Mental Health Literacy Scale was used. Data were analysed using one-way analysis of variance and Pearson correlation tests.

Results

All participants had scores equal to or more than the mean score in their knowledge and confidence assessments; 51% of the participants achieved the maximum score for a very positive attitude towards mental health, with such scores found particularly among female trainees. Increased levels of knowledge are associated with a more positive attitude, which can in turn lead to greater acceptance and reduce stigma.

Clinical implications

Knowledge is a powerful tool for reducing stigma and improving the doctor–patient relationship, indicating that regular training initiatives are necessary to equip budding general practitioner specialists with the necessary skills and confidence.
Determinants of stereotypic and variable eye-movement patterning
Authors: Διάκος Στέφανος
Published: July 2023

Ενώ η διαφορική θετική ενίσχυση έχει παρατηρηθεί πως μπορεί να αλλάζει τις κινήσεις των ματιών, οι επιδράσεις της τιμωρίας στα μοτίβα βλεμματικής συμπεριφοράς δεν έχουν ακόμα επαρκώς μελετηθεί. Επιπλέον, οι επικρατούσες θεωρήσεις της τιμωρίας παραβλέπουν ουσιώδεις επιδράσεις της, οι οποίες μπορεί να είναι χρονικά απομακρυσμένες από το τιμωρητικό γεγονός. Μία από αυτές είναι η θεμελίωση της αρνητικά ενισχυτικής δύναμης των ερεθισμάτων που παράγονται από τις τιμωρημένες δράσεις, από τις όποιες μπορεί να «αποκτηθεί» ανακούφιση και ασφάλεια μετά από εκδήλωση και επανάληψη μοτίβων συμπεριφοράς που δεν έχουν τιμωρηθεί. Η στερεοτυπική επανάληψη «ασφαλών» μοτίβων δράσης καθίσταται προβληματική όταν εκδηλώνεται σε πλαίσια, τα οποία απαιτούν συμπεριφορές με μεγαλύτερη μεταβλητότητα. Σε μια σειρά δύο πειραμάτων, μελετήθηκε με τη χρήση τεχνολογίας καταγραφής των οφθαλμοκινήσεων, η δυνατότητα της τιμωρίας να προξενεί γενικευμένη στερεοτυπική παραγωγή οπτικοκινητικών μοτίβων εστίασης, όταν η παραγωγή των μοτίβων αυτών δεν τιμωρούταν ούτε ενισχυόταν μέσω κάποιου πειραματικά ελεγχόμενου τρόπου. Στο πρώτο πείραμα, σε μια συντελεστική αλυσίδα δύο κρίκων, ενήλικες εστίαζαν αρχικά το βλέμμα τους σειριακά σε τέσσερεις μαύρες βούλες με οποιαδήποτε σειρά επιθυμούσαν χωρίς κάποια προγραμματισμένη συνέπεια· στη συνέχεια, έψαχναν μια μικρή άσπρη βούλα που εμφανιζόταν στιγμιαία εντός μιας από τις τέσσερεις μαύρες βούλες. Η σωστή ανίχνευση ή το μάντεμα της τοποθεσίας της άσπρης βούλας ενισχυόταν με πόντους· τα λάθη στην ανίχνευση δεν παρήγαγαν κάποια συνέπεια, εκτός της εκκίνησης της επόμενης δοκιμασίας. Στη δεύτερη φάση, τα λάθη στην ανίχνευση είτε τιμωρούνταν είτε όχι με αφαίρεση πόντων. Ενώ η παραγωγή οπτικοκινητικών μοτίβων εστίασης δεν τιμωρούνταν καθόλη τη διάρκεια του πειράματος, η τιμωρία στον δεύτερο κρίκο της αλυσίδας προξένησε επαναλαμβανόμενη παραγωγή μοτίβων στον πρώτο κρίκο· τα επίπεδα μεταβλητότητας επανήλθαν στα αρχικά επίπεδα, όταν αφαιρέθηκε η τιμωρία από το περιβάλλον στην τρίτη φάση. Αυτή η γενικευμένη επίδραση της τιμωρίας δεν παρατηρήθηκε στο δεύτερο πείραμα, όπου στον πρώτο κρίκο της αλυσίδας οι συμμετέχοντες έπρεπε να παράγουν μοτίβα που διέφεραν από το αμέσως προηγούμενο μοτίβο. Κάτω από αυτές τις συνθήκες, αντί για στερεοτυπική επανάληψη οπτικοκινητικών μοτίβων εστίασης, η τιμωρία προξένησε την παραγωγή πιο μεταβλητών μοτίβων. Φαίνεται πως ένα τιμωρητικό πλαίσιο τείνει να προξενεί γενικευμένη επανάληψη μοτίβων, τα οποία έχουν εκδηλωθεί πρόσφατα και δεν έχουν τιμωρηθεί, ακόμα και όταν αυτή η στερεοτυπία/μεταβλητότητα δεν είναι με κάποιο τρόπο λειτουργική, ενώ η επίδραση αυτή μπορεί να εμποδιστεί ή ακόμα και να ανατραπεί με τη διαφορική ενίσχυση μεταβλητών μοτίβων στον πρώτο κρίκο της αλυσίδας. Αυτά τα ευρήματα, μαζί με τη θεωρητική ανάλυση των επιδράσεων της τιμωρίας, μπορεί να καταστούν βοηθητικά σε κλινικές περιπτώσεις όπου παρατηρούνται μη-τυπικά επίπεδα οπτικοκινητικών μοτίβων, όπως στη διαταραχή αυτιστικού φάσματος, στη διαταραχή ελλειμματικής προσοχής και υπερκινητικότητας και στη νόσο Alzheimer.
Καθημερινές πρακτικές και νοηματικές παραγωγές της γειτονιάς μέσα από τις γεωγραφίες των παιδιών στο Παγκράτι
Authors: Καραμπίνη Ζωή
Published: July 2023

Η διδακτορική διατριβή διερευνά τα νοήματα που παράγουν τα παιδιά για τη γειτονιά τους, μέσα από τις καθημερινές τους πρακτικές. Αντλώντας από τις επεξεργασίες της Νέας κοινωνιολογίας της παιδικής ηλικίας, των Γεωγραφιών των παιδιών, της Εθνογραφίας και της Μελέτης της πόλης, η διατριβή συγκροτεί μια διεπιστημονική πολυπρισματική οπτική, προκειμένου να διεισδύσει στους παιδικούς κόσμους και να αναδείξει την οπτική των παιδιών για τους τόπους της καθημερινότητάς τους. Σε αυτήν τη βάση, η μελέτη εστιάζει στις γεωγραφίες των παιδιών 7-12 χρονών που κατοικούν στο Παγκράτι, μια αστική κεντρική γειτονιά της Αθήνας, οργανώνοντας μια εις βάθος επιτόπια έρευνα. Μέσα από τις διαλογικές ερευνητικές μεθόδους της εθνογραφικής παράδοσης, επιδιώκεται η κατανόηση της βιωμένης εμπειρίας των παιδιών στη γειτονιά. Το εθνογραφικό υλικό αναδεικνύει τις πλούσιες και σύνθετες οπτικές των παιδιών για «το σπίτι» και «τον δρόμο», συζητά για τις πρακτικές ιδιοποίησης και διεκδίκησης του δημόσιου χώρου της γειτονιάς και επικεντρώνεται στην ιδιαίτερη προτίμηση των παιδιών στους ενδιάμεσους, οριακούς και «άλλους» τόπους. Μέσα από αυτά τα μονοπάτια, η διατριβή εξετάζει τους χωρικούς τρόπους με τους οποίους τα παιδιά οριοθετούν, αμφισβητούν και οικειοποιούνται τους τόπους της γειτονιάς. Το εθνογραφικό υλικό οδήγησε την παρούσα μελέτη στη διερεύνηση των κοινών τόπων των παιδιών, μέσα από την έννοια της συνάντησης, των κοινωνικών δικτύων και της πολλαπλότητας του τόπου. Αρχικά, η διατριβή εστιάζει στις συναντήσεις των παιδιών στο σχολείο, στην πλατεία και στον ψηφιακό χώρο, στη συνέχεια, στους κοινούς τόπους που παράγουν οι γιορτές, οι παραδόσεις και τα έθιμα, και τέλος, στους κοινούς χωροχρόνους που διαμορφώνουν τα τοπία απασχόλησης και φροντίδας των παιδιών μετά-το-σχολείο. Η διατριβή επιχειρεί να αναδείξει, όχι μόνο τις χωρικές αναγνώσεις που διαμορφώνουν τα παιδιά για τη γειτονιά τους, αλλά και τη συμβολή τους σε αυτήν τη νοηματική παραγωγή, ως ενσυνείδητοι ενεργοί δρώντες της γειτονιάς. Μέσα από τις καθημερινές τους πρακτικές, τα παιδιά αναπαράγουν, μετασχηματίζουν και επινοούν σημασίες για τους τόπους τους και τις κοινότητές τους. Η διερεύνηση των χωρικών διαπραγματεύσεων των παιδιών αποκαλύπτει το αίτημά τους στο χώρο. Η διατριβή φέρνει στο επίκεντρο τις χωρικές διεκδικήσεις των παιδιών και μεταφέρει αυτούς τους προβληματισμούς στη συζήτηση για τις διαδικασίες παραγωγής επιστημονικών ερευνών με παιδιά.
Αξιολόγηση του ογκογονιδίου HER2 στον καρκίνο του μαστού μέσω της τεχνικής Silver In Situ Hybridization (SISH)
Authors: Μανώλης Ιωάννης
Published: July 2023

Εισαγωγή: Ο καρκίνος του μαστού είναι μια ετερογενής ασθένεια που χαρακτηρίζεται από έναν έως εικοσιένα ξεχωριστούς ιστολογικούς υποτύπους και τουλάχιστον τέσσερις διαφορετικούς μοριακούς υποτύπους ο καθένας με διακριτές παρουσιάσεις, απόκριση στη θεραπεία και κλινικές εκβάσεις. Συσσώρευση από γενετικές ή επιγενετικές μεταλλάξεις από διάφορους παράγοντες και η διαταραχή αυτής της ισορροπίας οδηγεί στην ανάπτυξη του όγκου του μαστού. Η ενίσχυση του πρωτο - ογκογονιδίου HER2 και η πρωτεϊνική υπερέκφραση του παρατηρείται στο 20-40% των ασθενών με καρκίνο του μαστού και παίζει καθοριστικό ρόλο στη βιολογική συμπεριφορά. Η ανοσοϊστοχημεία είναι η πιο συχνά χρησιμοποιούμενη, πιο απλή και οικονομικά αποτελεσματική αρχική εξέταση για την έκφραση της πρωτεΐνης HER2. Ο Αμερικάνικος Οργανισμός Φαρμάκων (FDA) συνιστά τα ανοσοϊστοχημικά αποτελέσματα HER2 με σκόρ 0+ και 1+ να θεωρούνται HER2 αρνητικά καιτα άτομα με σκορ HER2 3+ θα πρέπει να θεωρούνται ως HER2 θετικά, ενώ ο HER2διφορούμενος διηθητικός καρκίνος του μαστού είναι εκείνος με σκορ HER2 2+. Αυτό είναικάτι που πρέπει να αξιολογηθεί περαιτέρω με την τεχνική του φθορίζοντα υβριδισμού(FISH), η οποία σαν διαδικασία είναι ακριβέστερη και πιο αξιόπιστη από τηνανοσοϊστοχημεία. Ωστόσο, στα μειονεκτήματα της είναι η ανάγκη για εξειδικευμένο χειριστή, η μακρά διαδικασία, ο ειδικός εξοπλισμός και η μη μακροχρόνια συντήρηση των δειγμάτων για μεταγενέστερη αναθεώρηση. Μια πλήρως αυτοματοποιημένη μέθοδος, η Silver In Situ Hybridization (SISH) μπορεί να ξεπεράσει τα μειονεκτήματα του FISH και να έχει την ίδια ακρίβεια με την τεχνική FISH. Σκοπός: Η επιβεβαίωση του διφορούμενου ανοσοϊστοχημικά ογκογονιδίου HER2 με σκορ2+ ως προβλεπτικού βιοδείκτη με την μοριακή τεχνική SISH. Υλικά και μέθοδοι: Θα μελετηθούν 151 περιστατικά διηθητικού καρκίνου μαστού και ηακριβής έκφραση του ογκογονιδίου HER2 σε όσα από αυτά το σκορ της ανοσοϊστοχημείαςείναι με σκόρ 2+ μέσω της τεχνικής SISH.Αναμενόμενα αποτελέσματα: Υπάρχουν ενδείξεις για την επιβεβαίωση του διφορούμενουανοσοϊστοχημικά ογκογονιδίου HER2 με σκορ 2+ ως προβλεπτικού δείκτη με την μοριακήτεχνική SISH. Συμπεράσματα: Η συγκεκριμένη μελέτη θα προσπαθήσει να αξιολογήσει το ογκογονίδιοHER2 στον καρκίνο του μαστού μέσω της τεχνικής SISH όταν αυτό είναι διφορούμενο μεσκόρ 2+ ανοσοϊστοχημικά.
Ανάπτυξη και εφαρμογές υβριδικών κεραμικών νανοϋλικών βιομημιτικά παραγόμενων μέσω μήτρας υπερδιακλαδισμένων πολυμερών
Authors: Παπαγεωργίου Μιχαέλα
Published: July 2023

Ο στόχος της παρούσας διατριβής είναι η σύνθεση και ο χαρακτηρισμός υβριδικών οργανικών/ανόργανων πολυλειτουργικών νανοϋλικών πυρήνα-κελύφους, τα οποία διαθέτουν καταλυτικές και αντιβακτηριακές ιδιότητες. Τα υλικά αυτά αποτελούνται από ένα μεταλλικό πυρήνα αργύρου και ένα περίβλημα πυριτίας ή από έναν αδρανή πυρήνα διοξειδίου του πυριτίου στον οποίο ενσωματώνονται νανοσωματίδια αργύρου ή νανοσωματίδια αργύρου δημητρίας. Το υπόστρωμα αλλά και το κέλυφος των υλικών αυτών παράγονται βιομιμητικά σε πολυμερική μήτρα, με κύριο πολυμερές την υπερδιακλαδισμένη πολυ(αιθυλεν)ιμίνη και εναλλακτικά την γραμμική πολυ(αιθυλενο)γλυκόλη. Ο χαρακτηρισμός των υλικών πραγματοποιήθηκε μέσω ηλεκτρονικής μικροσκοπίας σάρωσης, ηλεκτρονικής μικροσκοπίας διερχόμενης δέσμης, φασματοσκοπίας ορατού – υπεριώδους, φασματοσκοπίας υπερύθρου μέσω μετασχηματισμού Fourier, περίθλασης ακτίνων-Χ και το επιφανειακό φορτίο των υλικών εξετάστηκε μέσω ανάλυσης ζ-δυναμικού. Στην εργασία αυτή παρουσιάζονται επίσης οι μετρήσεις που πραγματοποιήθηκαν με στόχο την αξιολόγηση των καταλυτικών ιδιοτήτων για πρότυπες αντιδράσεις οργανικών ρύπων αλλά και των αντιμικροβιακών ιδιοτήτων των υλικών αυτών είτε σε μορφή κόνεως είτε ως επικάλυψη σε πορώδη υποστρώματα όπως το χαρτί. Τα υλικά αυτά περιλαμβάνουν νανοκόνεις υπερδιακλαδισμένης πολυ(αιθυλεν)ιμίνης – αργύρου- πυριτίας (Ag@SiO2), νανοκόνεις πυρήνα – κελύφους υπερδιακλαδισμένης πολυ(αιθυλεν)ιμίνης – πυριτίας αργύρου (SiO2@Ag/Ag2CO3/ Ag3PO4), αιωρήματα υπερδιακλαδισμένης πολυ(αιθυλεν)ιμίνης – πυριτίας αργύρου (SiO2@Ag) και αιωρήματα πολυ(αιθυλενο)γλυκόλης – πυριτίας αργύρου/δημητρίας (SiO2@Ag/CeO2). Τα αποτελέσματα αυτής της μελέτης επιβεβαίωσαν τη σύνθεση αποδοτικών και επαναχρησιμοποιούμενων καταλυτών που οδηγούν στην ολοκλήρωση της αντίδρασης αναγωγής της 4-νιτροφαινόλης σε 4-αμινοφαινόλη παρουσία περίσσειας βοροϋδριδίου του νατρίου σε λιγότερο από 1h. Τέλος, τα υλικά αυτά εμφανίζουν αντιμικροβιακή δράση έναντι Gram-αρνητικών βακτηρίων ή/και Gram-θετικών βακτηρίων ανάλογα με τη δομή και τη σύστασή τους.
Η πεζογραφία του Κώστα Μόντη
Authors: Παπαδόπουλος Μιχαήλ
Published: July 2023

Το πεζογραφικό έργο του Κώστα Μόντη παρά το γεγονός ότι εκτιμήθηκε ως εξόχως σημαντικό από το σύνολο των κριτικών της σύγχρονης νεοελληνικής λογοτεχνίας, ωστόσο, λόγω της αίγλης και του θαυμασμού που συγκέντρωσε το ποιητικό του έργο, παρέμεινε έως και σήμερα στο περιθώριο των ερευνητικών μελετών. Η παρούσα διατριβή αποσκοπεί στη διερεύνηση και ανάδειξη του πεζογραφικού του έργου με γνώμονα τον προσδιορισμό των ιδιαίτερων χαρακτηριστικών που συνθέτουν την αφηγηματική του γραφή. Στο πλαίσιο αυτό μελετάται η εκδοθείσα πεζογραφική του παραγωγή, και ειδικότερα η νουβέλα Κλειστές πόρτες, το μυθιστόρημα Ο αφέντης Μπατίστας και τ’ άλλα, οι διηγηματικές συλλογές, ενώ το ερευνητικό δείγμα της διατριβής επεκτείνεται και σε κάποια πρωτόλεια ή ανέκδοτα πεζά κείμενα. Πιο συγκεκριμένα, διερευνώνται η θεματική, η μορφή και το περιεχόμενο των κειμένων, οι λογοτεχνικές επιρροές και η εξελικτική πορεία της γραφής του αλλά και οι ευδιάκριτες «διασταυρώσεις» του πεζογραφικού λόγου με τον ποιητικό. Οι αφηγηματικές επιλογές του Κ. Μόντη καταγράφονται και κατηγοριοποιούνται υπό τη συνθήκη του θεωρητικού μοντέλου του Gérard Genette. Παράλληλα, από τη μελέτη τού εν λόγω έργου ανιχνεύονται και προβάλλονται οι ιδεολογικές και πολιτικές θέσεις του συγγραφέα, οι στάσεις και οι απόψεις του για γεγονότα ή πρόσωπα που διαδραμάτισαν ρόλο καθοριστικό είτε για τον ίδιο είτε για την πατρίδα του την Κύπρο. Ιδιαίτερη μνεία γίνεται στις θεωρητικές αντιλήψεις του συγγραφέα, όπως αυτές προκύπτουν μέσω αυτοαναφορικών σχολίων για τη συγγραφή, την τέχνη της αφήγησης και τη λογοτεχνία συλλήβδην.
Effect of lactoferrin in oral nutrition supplement (ONS) towards IL-6 and IL-10 in failure to thrive children with infection
Authors: Widjaja Nur Aisiyah , Hamidah Azizah , Purnomo Marissa Tulus , Ardianah Eva
Published: July 2023

Background: Growth failure due to infection in children is a major health problem throughout the world. It provokes a systemic immune response, with increased interleukin (IL)-6 and reduced IL-10. Lactoferrin (Lf) is a multifunctional iron-binding protein that can be found in whey protein inside formula milk such as oral nutrition supplement (ONS), which can upregulate anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10) and modulate pro-inflammatory cytokines. This study investigates the effect of Lf supplementation in ONS on IL-6 and IL-10 levels in children with failure to thrive and infection.

Methods: We performed a quasi-experimental pre- and post-study in children aged 12–60 months old with failure to thrive due to infectious illness. The subjects received 400 ml of oral nutritional supplements (ONS, 1 ml equivalent to 1 kcal) each day for 90 days, and their parents received dietary advice and medication based on the underlying illness. Blood was drawn to measure IL-6 and IL-10 before and after the intervention.

Results: There were 75 subjects recruited and divided into group-1 and group-2 based on age. The incidence of undernutrition was 37.33%. Lf in ONS intervention improved body weight and body length. Lf also reduced IL-6, although there was not a significant difference before and after the intervention. However, the IL-6 reduction was significantly higher in subjects with undernutrition compared with subjects with weight faltering. Pre-intervention IL-6 levels were higher in children with stunting than in children with normal stature. There was a greater change in IL-6 in children with severe stunting than in children with normal stature or stunting. IL-10 was significantly reduced after the intervention.

Conclusions: In addition to improving body weight and length, Lf supplementation in ONS improved immune response homeostasis by balancing IL-6 and IL-10 levels and by improving the IL-6/IL-10 ratio.

ClinicalTrials.gov number ID: NCT05289674, dated May 3rd 2022.