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Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

Monday, May 31, 2021

A simple metric to study the mechanisms generating event-related potentials

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J Neurosci Methods. 2021 May 27:109230. doi: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2021.109230. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: There is an active debate about the mechanism underlying the generation of event-related potentials, and, particularly, whether these are generated by additive components, independent of the background EEG, or the phase-resetting of ongoing oscillations.

METHOD: We present a new metric to evaluate trial-by-trial covariations of successive ERP components. Our main assumption is that if two successive ERP components are generated by phase-resetting of a unitary oscillation, they should be time-locked to each other and their single-trial latencies should covary. In contrast, if the components are generated by independent additive components, single-trial latency covariation would not be observed. To quantify the covariance between the single-trial latencies, we define a metric based on latency-corrected averages, which w e applied to both simulated and real ERPs.

RESULTS: For the simulated data, there was a clear distinction in latency covariation between the ERPs generated with unitary phase-resetting versus additive models. For real visual and auditory ERPs, we observed a lack of latency covariation of successive components.

COMPARISON WITH EXISTING METHODS: The new metric is complementary to other approaches to study the mechanisms underlying ERP generation, and does not suffer from potential caveats due to filtering artifacts. Moreover, the method proved to be more sensitive than another estimation of single-trial latency covariations using the cross-correlation function.

CONCLUSION: The observed lack of latency covariation shows the presence of parallel, independent processing within each cortical sensory pathway.

PMID:34052290 | DOI:10.1016/j.jneumeth.2021.109230

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Inhibitory effect of Salvia coccinea on inflammatory responses through NF-κB signaling pathways in THP-1 cells and acute rat diabetes mellitus

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Via histochem

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Acta Histochem. 2021 May 27;123(5):151735. doi: 10.1016/j.acthis.2021.151735. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress has been implicated in diabetes and its complications. Medicinal plants possessing antioxidant activity may decrease oxidative stress by scavenging radicals and reducing power activity and would be a promising strategy for the treatment of inflammatory disorders like diabetes. This study was designed to evaluate the antioxidant effect of Aqueous Extract of S.coccinea leaf (AESL) in HG treated THP-1 cells and streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic Wistar rats. AESL and the standard antidiabetic drug glibenclamide were administered orally by intragastric tube for 14 days and pre-treated HG grown THP-1 cells. AESL treatment reduced HG induced increase in ROS production, NF-κB dependent proinflammatory gene expression by influencing NF-κB nuclear translocation in THP-1 cells. Oral administration of AESL inhibited STZ-induced increase in serum lipid peroxidation, aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, and Lactate dehydrogenase of diabetic rats. Significant increase in activity of superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase, and a reduced level of glutathione, were observed in AESL treatment. The results demonstrate that AESL is useful in controlling blood glucose and also has antioxidant potential to influence the translocation of NF-κB, protect damage caused by hyperglycemia-induced infl ammation.

PMID:34052674 | DOI:10.1016/j.acthis.2021.151735

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Ultrastructural aberrations, histological disruption and upregulation of the VEGF, CD34 and ASMA immunoexpression in the myocardium of anemic albino rats

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Acta Histochem. 2021 May 27;123(5):151731. doi: 10.1016/j.acthis.2021.151731. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a global health problem affecting various body systems and tissues including the cardiovascular system. Several literatures described the associated physiological and clinical changes in the cardiovascular system and heart. However, the associated structural changes were poorly investigated. Therefore, the main aim of the present work was to elucidate whether IDA induces structural changes and alterations in the VEGF, CD34 and ASMA immunoexpression in the myocardium of albino rats. Thirty adult male albino rats were divided into two groups (fifteen rats each); control and anemic. Hematological data for all animals were assessed weekly and statistically analyzed. Three weeks later, animals were sacrificed, and heart specimens were obtained and processed for light and electron microscopy. All hematological parameters showed a statistically significant decrease in the anemic group. Structurally, the anemic group showed markedly degenerated, disrupted and disorganized cardiomyocytes in addition to markedly congested blood vessels, fibroblasts, collagen fibers deposition and perivascular cellular infiltration were noted. Also, positive immunostaining for VEGF, CD34 and ASMA was observed. Ultra-structurally, the myocardium of the anemic group showed disrupted and degenerated myofibrils with degenerated nuclei, perinucl ear edema, widened interstitial spaces and marked collagen deposition. Mitochondria markedly increased with abnormal shapes. IDA induced myocardial injury that may propagate to regeneration through activated CD34 progenitor cells and increased VEGF or to degeneration and fibrosis through collagen fibers deposition and enhanced ASMA. So, early diagnosis and treatment of IDA is mandatory to avoid the associated myocardial structural changes.

PMID:34052675 | DOI:10.1016/j.acthis.2021.151731

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RN181 regulates the biological behaviors of oral squamous cell carcinoma cells via mediating ERK/MAPK signaling pathway

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Acta Histochem. 2021 May 27;123(5):151733. doi: 10.1016/j.acthis.2021.151733. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To explore the role of RN181 in the pathogenesis of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cells via mediating ERK/MAPK signaling.

METHODS: The expression of RN181 was detected in OSCC tissues and cells. CAL27 and SCC-15 cells were divided into Control, Empty, RN181, si-RN181, U0126 (an inhibitor of ERK/MAPK pathway) and si-RN181 + U0126 groups. MTT was used to determine cell proliferation, flow cytometry to determine cell cycle and apoptosis, Transwell assay and wound healing test to determine cell invasion and migration, respectively. Western blotting was used to measure the protein expression. Furthermore, a xenograft tumor model was established to observe the effect of RN181 on the in vivo growth of OSCC cells.

RESULTS: RN181 was down-regulated in OSCC tissues and cells. As compared to the Control group, CAL27 and SCC-15 cells in the RN181 group and U0126 group presented with decreases in the proliferation, invasion and migration, but increases in the cell ratio at the G0/G1 phase and apoptosis, while the p-ERK 1/2/ERK 1/2 was down-regulated. Cells in the si-RN181 group manifested the opposite changes. U0126 could reverse the positive effect of si-RN181 on the growth of OSCC cells. In vivo experiment demonstrated that the tumor growth and weight were reduced in the RN181 group, with decreased Ki67 positive expression and elevated TUNEL positive cells.

CONCLUSION: RN181 was down-regulated in OSCC, and it could inhibit the proliferation, invasion and migration, cause the G0/G1 arrest, while promote the apoptosis of OSCC cells via inhibiting ERK/MAPK pathway.

PMID:34052676 | DOI:10.1016/j.acthis.2021.151733

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Breast cancer-related thrombotic microangiopathy: A review

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Bull Cancer. 2021 May 26:S0007-4551(21)00183-1. doi: 10.1016/j.bulcan.2021.03.017. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Thrombotic Microangiopathies (TM) have been described since the 1960s. They are characterized by presence of mechanical haemolytic anemia associated with peripheral thrombocytopenia. TM in cancer can be related to several causes, whose cancer himself: cancer-related microangiopathic haemolytic anaemia (MAHA). Incidence of cancer related MAHA remains unknown. Cancer-related MAHA are mainly observed in mucin-producer adenocarcinomas, such as gastric (half of reported cases) and breast cancer. We conducted a review of all original published cases of TM reported in breast cancer, and we specifically investigated BC-MAHA cases. A Medline search identified 158 MAHA cases including 118 BC-MAHA, and 40 drug-related MAHA. Most of BC-MAHA occur in disseminated cancers, mainly with medullar involvement, and/or bone metastasis. Patien ts typically suffer from poor general state, bone pain, and/or dyspnea. Laboratory abnormalities such as myelemia or erythromyelemia in peripheral blood are frequently observed. Incidence of coagulation disorders is increased, compared to other MAHA causes. BC-MAHA prognosis is dramatically poor. Treatments classically used in other MAHA causes, such as plasmapheresis or immunoglobulins, are inefficient. Urgent anti-neoplastic therapy may be the only effective treatment, associated to symptomatic therapies (transfusions, blood pressure control).

PMID:34052032 | DOI:10.1016/j.bulcan.2021. 03.017

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An overview of genetic predisposition to familial hematological malignancies

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Bull Cancer. 2021 May 26:S0007-4551(21)00178-8. doi: 10.1016/j.bulcan.2021.03.013. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Genetic predisposition has been always noted in the context of familial hematological malignancies. Epidemiological studies have provided evidence consisting of an increased risk to develop blood cancer in relatives diagnosed with the same pathology and characterized by early age at diagnosis and higher severity compared to sporadic forms. With the emergence of new genomic testing approaches, the prevalence of familial aggregations of hematological malignancies seems to be under estimated. The heterogeneity of clinical features explains the wide number of genes' mutations reported to date and the variable penetrance of variants. Nevertheless, the genetic basis of familial hematological malignancies is still not well understood. Identifying the genetic background in familial aggregations provides a valuable tool for prognos tic evaluation, personalized treatment and better genetic counseling in high-risk families. Herein, we provide an overview of genes reported in the last few years in association to hematological malignancies including familial form of Hodgkin Lymphoma, Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma, Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia, acute Myeloid Leukemia and acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia.

PMID:34052033 | DOI:10.1016/j.bulcan.2021.03.013

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Assessment of children with speech sound disorders in otolaryngology outpatient clinics

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Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2021 May 30. doi: 10.1007/s00405-021-06905-3. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the utility of Ankara Articulation Test (AAT) for the diagnosis of Speech Sound Disorders (SSD) in children by an Otolaryngologist independent of Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP).

METHODS: In this prospective single-center study, 83 children comprising 45 boys (54.2%) and 38 girls (45.8%) were enrolled. AAT was applied to the children aged 3-12 years with primary SSD who presented to the otolaryngology outpatient service. Video recording was carried out while testing and the responses to the test were evaluated by another otolaryngologist and SLP.

RESULTS: A perfectly significant agreement was found between the speech-language pathologist and otolaryngologist's assessments (Cronbach's Alpha > 0.80).

CONCLUSION: Otolaryngologists could evaluate SSD with the help of AAT as well as an SLP ana lysis. Standardized visual tests, such as the AAT, assist the otolaryngologist in the diagnosis of SSD in outpatient clinics.

PMID:34052863 | DOI:10.1007/s00405-021-06905-3

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Comparison of long-term outcome of two endoscopic transtympanic myringoplasty without tympanomeatal flap elevating for repairing large chronic perforations

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Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2021 May 30. doi: 10.1007/s00405-021-06913-3. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: We compare the long-term efficacy of the cartilage-perichondrium modified over-underlay technique and transtympanic underlay alone technique using endoscopic myringoplasty without tympanomeatal flap elevating for repairing large chronic perforations.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: Nine chronic large perforations with mucosal chronic otitis media were recruited and randomly allocated to endoscopic cartilage-perichondrium modified over-underlay myringoplasty (MOUM, n = 55) and endoscopic cartilage-perichondrium transtympanic underlay alone myringoplasty (TUAM, n = 54). The graft success rate, hearing gain, mean operation time and postoperative complications were compared between the groups at 6 and 24 months.

RESULTS: In total, 99 patients were finally analysed. The graft success rates 6 months after surgery between MOUM and TUAM groups were not significantly different (100.0% vs 96.0%, p = 0.484). However, the MOUM group had a significantly higher success rate 24 months after surgery than the TUAM group (93.9% vs 76.0%, p = 0.028). In addition, postoperative ABG < 10 dB was 73.5% patients in the MOUM group and 76.0% in the TUAM group, the difference wasn't significant (p = 0.953). CT examination revealed well-pneumatised middle ears 24 months after surgery in both groups, and no middle ear cholesteatoma was observed.

CONCLUSION: Endoscopic modified cartilage-perichondrium over-underlay myringoplasty without tympanomeatal flap elevating is reliable and effective for repairing large perforations. It improves the long-term graft success rate compared to the endoscopic cartilage-perichondrium transtympanic underlay alone technique. The risk for iatrogenic cholesteatoma is minimal.

PMID:34052865 | DOI:10.1007/s00405-021-06913-3

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Cochlear implantation in common cavity deformity: a systematic review

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Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2021 May 29. doi: 10.1007/s00405-021-06884-5. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Cochlear implantation became a valid hearing rehabilitation option in common cavity deformity. This study aimed to assess the audiological and speech outcomes of cochlear implantation in common cavity deformity patients and to address the surgical aspect used in this population.

METHODS: A comprehensive systematic literature review based on preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guideline from database inception through April 2020. Eighteen published articles including 138 patients with common cavity deformity met the inclusion criteria. These articles studied the surgical techniques and the audiological outcomes of cochlear implantation in patients with common cavity deformity in English language.

RESULTS: Trans-mastoid labyrinthotomy was the common surgical approach in thes e patients. The average speech intelligibility rating and categories of auditory performance scores in common cavity deformity were lower than in normal cochlea subjects (p < 0.05), and non-significant (p > 0.05) compared with other types of inner ear malformations.

CONCLUSION: Patients with common cavity deformity who underwent cochlear implantation showed a beneficial audiological and speech outcome. However, their performance is highly variable. Therefore, pre-operative counseling of the parents is necessary. The surgical approaches should be individualized according to clinical, radiological, and surgical findings.

PMID:34052873 | DOI:10.1007/s00405-021-06884-5

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Intraoperative spinal accessory nerve monitoring in neck dissections

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Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2021 May 30. doi: 10.1007/s00405-021-06909-z. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The identification and preservation of the spinal accessory nerve (SAN) is essential in neck surgeries due to possible complications. We report the technique to intraoperative neuromonitoring (IONM) of SAN in functional neck dissections.

METHOD: SAN was monitored by needle electrodes placed on the trapezius muscle. Preoperative and postoperative nerve mapping was performed.

CONCLUSION: IONM for spinal accessory nerve in patients undergoing neck dissection is a useful technique that can be valuable for neck surgeries where spinal nerve injury is at risk.

PMID:34052866 | DOI:10.1007/s00405-021-06909-z

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Myoelectric characteristics of tensor palatini and collapsibility of upper airway in OSA patients with different phenotypes under DISE

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Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2021 May 30. doi: 10.1007/s00405-021-06795-5. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: This study aims to evaluate the combination of myoelectric characteristics of tensor palatini muscle (TP) and collapsibility of upper airway in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) patients with different external phenotypes of collapse pattern at velum level under drug-induced sleep endoscopy (DISE).

STUDY DESIGN: Case series with planned data collection.

SETTING: Operation room.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS: 36 mainly collapse pattern at velum level OSA subjects underwent DISE with synchronous tensor palatini electromyograms (TP EMG), and polysomnography (ALICE 6). According to the phenotype of collapse pattern at velum level in DISE, the subjects were divided into group 1 (concentric collapse), group 2 (anteroposterior collapse), and group 3 (lateral collapse). Each group consisted of 13, 14, and 9 subjects, respect ively, and was observed the electromyographic indexes at awake, sleep onset, during apnea and the third respiratory cycle after apnea. The active and passive upper airway critical closing pressure (Pcrit) of each group were measured at the same time, and the difference of neuromuscular response between different groups was evaluated.

RESULTS: In tonic TPEMG, group 1 showed the highest value during awake and sleep onset, while group 2 was the highest during apnea and after apnea. In peak TPEMG, group 1 showed the highest value during awake. Group 2 showed the highest value during other states. In passive Pcrit and D value (difference between passive Pcrit and active Pcrit), group 2 was the highest, while group 1 was the highest in active Pcrit. Difference was statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS: Under different states of awake, sleep onset, apnea and after apnea, the response force of tensor palatini muscle of OSA subjects with different phenotypes under DISE was diffe rent. Group 1 showed the highest EMG values only when awake and sleep onset, and it was most prone to collapse. Group 2 had the highest anatomical load (passive Pcrit) and the highest neuromuscular compensatory effect (D value).

PMID:34052864 | DOI:10.1007/s00405-021-06795-5

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