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Lambadiari V, Kountouri A, Psahoulia F, Koliou GA, Lazaris A, Michalopoulos E, Mallis P, Korakas E, Eleftheriadou I, Balampanis K, Sarris M, Tsirigotis P, Geroulakos G, Stavropoulos-Giokas C, Dimitriadis GD, Tentolouris N. Treatment with Umbilical Cord Blood Platelet Lysate Gel Improves Healing of Diabetic Foot Ulcer. J Clin Med 2024; 13:1310. [PMID: 38592188 PMCID: PMC10932121 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13051310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2024] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study was conducted to examine the hypothesis that umbilical cord blood platelet lysate (UCB-PL) gel has a significant impact on the healing rate of DFU. Μethods: In this open-labeled, randomized controlled trial, 110 patients were randomized to treatment with UCB-PL gel (UCB-PL group, n = 52) every three days for one month or dressing with normal saline (control group, n = 58). All participants were followed up for 20 weeks post treatment. Ulcer surface area was assessed with the imitoMeasure application at two, four, and six weeks, and two, four and six months. This study's main outcome was the reduction in ulcer size over the six-month study period. RESULTS The mean ulcer area at baseline was 4.1 cm2 in the UCB-PL group and 1.7 cm2 in the control group. At six months post treatment, patients on the UCB-PL treatment displayed a significant reduction in ulcer size compared to baseline 0.12 (0-8.16) in contrast to a more modest change in the control group 1.05 (0-24.7). The ulcer area was decreased at the end of the study in 40 patients (97.6%) in the UCB-PL group and 27 (73%) in the control group (Fisher's p = 0.002). CONCLUSIONS The application of UCB-PL gel in DFU resulted in a significant reduction in ulcer size compared to regular saline dressing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vaia Lambadiari
- Second Department of Internal Medicine, Attikon University Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece; (A.K.); (G.-A.K.); (E.K.); (K.B.); (P.T.)
| | - Aikaterini Kountouri
- Second Department of Internal Medicine, Attikon University Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece; (A.K.); (G.-A.K.); (E.K.); (K.B.); (P.T.)
| | - Fοteini Psahoulia
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Attikon University Hospital, 12462 Athens, Greece; (F.P.); (A.L.); (G.G.)
| | - Georgia-Angeliki Koliou
- Second Department of Internal Medicine, Attikon University Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece; (A.K.); (G.-A.K.); (E.K.); (K.B.); (P.T.)
| | - Andreas Lazaris
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Attikon University Hospital, 12462 Athens, Greece; (F.P.); (A.L.); (G.G.)
| | - Efstathios Michalopoulos
- Hellenic Cord Blood Bank, Biomedical Research Foundation Academy of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (E.M.); (P.M.); (C.S.-G.)
| | - Panagiotis Mallis
- Hellenic Cord Blood Bank, Biomedical Research Foundation Academy of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (E.M.); (P.M.); (C.S.-G.)
| | - Emmanouil Korakas
- Second Department of Internal Medicine, Attikon University Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece; (A.K.); (G.-A.K.); (E.K.); (K.B.); (P.T.)
| | - Ioanna Eleftheriadou
- First Department of Propaedeutic Internal Medicine, Diabetes Centre, Laiko General Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (I.E.); (N.T.)
| | - Konstantinos Balampanis
- Second Department of Internal Medicine, Attikon University Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece; (A.K.); (G.-A.K.); (E.K.); (K.B.); (P.T.)
| | - Markos Sarris
- Health and Social Care Management, University of West Attica, 12241 Athens, Greece;
| | - Panagiotis Tsirigotis
- Second Department of Internal Medicine, Attikon University Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece; (A.K.); (G.-A.K.); (E.K.); (K.B.); (P.T.)
| | - George Geroulakos
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Attikon University Hospital, 12462 Athens, Greece; (F.P.); (A.L.); (G.G.)
| | - Catherine Stavropoulos-Giokas
- Hellenic Cord Blood Bank, Biomedical Research Foundation Academy of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (E.M.); (P.M.); (C.S.-G.)
| | - George D. Dimitriadis
- Sector of Medicine, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Nikolaos Tentolouris
- First Department of Propaedeutic Internal Medicine, Diabetes Centre, Laiko General Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (I.E.); (N.T.)
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Chatzis A, Brilakis E, Papadopoulou D, Giannouli V, Stamouli MA, Goula A, Sarris M, Soulis S. Beliefs and behaviours of radiographers and other health professionals concerning radiation protection safety in a high-volume Greek public hospital. Development of a new measuring instrument. Radiography (Lond) 2021; 27:1038-1043. [PMID: 33933361 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2021.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The use of fluoroscopy-assisted surgical procedures has been increasing recently. The extensive use of fluoroscopy, combined with the lack of knowledge about radiation risks among operating room (OR) personnel (surgeons, anaesthetists, nurses, and radiographers), may lead to misconceptions. The perceptions and beliefs of any health professional concerning radiation protection safety (RPS) may affect their behaviour during surgery, leading to negative outcomes. The aim of this study was to construct a new, original, reliable, and valid instrument to record the beliefs, perceptions, and behaviours of health professionals during surgery, which reflects the established culture of RPS. METHODS A questionnaire was designed, consisting of 95 questions grouped into six coherent sections. The study was performed at a Greek public hospital with a high workload in terms of fluoroscopically guided surgical operations. RESULTS It was distributed among 136 people, and 132 completed questionnaires were collected (response rate 97%). Exploratory factor analysis was performed separately for each scale studied and Cronbach's Alpha reliability analysis was also performed. The reliability of the greater part of the new measurement tool ranged from very good to acceptable. CONCLUSION The questionnaire developed in this study is a valid and reliable option for recording health professionals' perceptions, beliefs, and behaviours concerning the RPS culture. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE This study helps clinical radiographers to understand a possible knowledge gap about RPS and locates the specific fields that the OR personnel misunderstand. It also can support and establish local learning organisations with regular targeted staff training for health professionals, thereby leading to a generally improved RPS culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Chatzis
- General Hospital "Asklepieio Voulas", Voula, Greece; Department of Business Administration, University of West Attica, Egaleo, Greece.
| | - E Brilakis
- Associate Director of 3rd Orthopaedic Department of Hygeia Hospital, Athens, Greece.
| | | | - V Giannouli
- Department of Business Administration, University of West Attica, Egaleo, Greece; Attica Psychiatric Hospital "Dafni", Dafni, Greece.
| | - M-A Stamouli
- Department of Business Administration, University of West Attica, Egaleo, Greece.
| | - A Goula
- Department of Business Administration, University of West Attica, Egaleo, Greece.
| | - M Sarris
- Department of Business Administration, University of West Attica, Egaleo, Greece.
| | - S Soulis
- Department of Business Administration, University of West Attica, Egaleo, Greece.
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Goula A, Stamouli MA, Latsou D, Gkioka V, Sarris M. Validation of Dimensions of Learning Organization Questionnaire (DLOQ) in health care setting in Greece. J Public Health Res 2020; 9:1962. [PMID: 33381473 PMCID: PMC7753320 DOI: 10.4081/jphr.2020.1962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: In health care systems the organizational learning is a continuous process to improve actions through better knowledge and detect or correct errors. This study examines the validity and reliability of the Dimensions of Learning Organization Questionnaire in addition to the applicability of the instrument in a Greek health care cultural context. Design and methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out in 6 general hospitals of Attica and the sampling scheme was the stratified sampling. Questionnaires were distributed to 487 healthcare professionals and 380 valid questionnaires were returned. The research tool used in this survey is the extensive form of DLOQ, which has been adapted and translated into Greek language. Data analysis was carried out with SPSS 25. Results: Three leading experts of the health sector examined the face validity assessment of the translated DLOQ and stated that it is characterized by high face validity. As regard construct validity of the DOLQ throughout Multitrait-Multimethod Matrix, was proved that all the variables of the same factors are statistically significantly correlated (p<0.001), and their correlation coefficients have moderate to high power ranging between 0.563 and 0.798. Moreover, the discriminant validity was demonstrated as certain correlation coefficients between variables of different factors were found to be higher than of certain correlation coefficients between variables of the same factors. The internal consistency among the items of the DOLQ range between 0.842 and 0.977 and they are considered to be good to excellent. Conclusions: Our results confirmed that DLOQ is a valuable tool in measuring Learning Organizational in Greek public hospitals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aspasia Goula
- Master of Health and Social Care Management, University of West Attica, Egaleo Attikis, Greece
| | - Maria-Aggeliki Stamouli
- Master of Health and Social Care Management, University of West Attica, Egaleo Attikis, Greece
| | - Dimitra Latsou
- Master of Health and Social Care Management, University of West Attica, Egaleo Attikis, Greece
| | - Vasiliki Gkioka
- Master of Health and Social Care Management, University of West Attica, Egaleo Attikis, Greece
| | - Markos Sarris
- Master of Health and Social Care Management, University of West Attica, Egaleo Attikis, Greece
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Papadakaki M, Gnardellis CH, Tsalkanis A, Stamouli MA, Petelos E, Morandi A, Otte D, Sarris M, Tzamalouka G, Chliaoutakis J. Injury profile and healthcare expenditure of cyclists admitted in intensive care units. Eur J Public Health 2019. [DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckz186.657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
The current paper is part of the EU-funded REHABILAID Project and aims to describe the profile of cyclists sustaining severe injuries in a road traffic incident as well as the healthcare costs associated with their injury, including hospitalization costs and out-of-pocket expenditure.
Methods
Seven public hospitals were involved; Greece=5, Italy=1 and Germany=1. Both the intensive care units (ICU) and sub-intensive care units (as high-dependency areas) were involved. Participants enrolled during a 12-month period starting from April 2013 and were followed for one year from admission date. The study used widely recommended classifications for injury severity (AIS-Update 2008, MAIS). Information on the injury was retrieved upon patients’ consent, from medical records while interviews were carried out at months 1,6,12 for personal and cost-related information. Health Care Expenditure was assessed through the MUARC’s framework. Diagnosis-related groups (DRGs) were used to estimate hospitalization costs.
Results
120 subjects enrolled in the study in total and 14 were cyclists(Greece=1, Germany=3, Italy=10). Most of them were men(n = 9, 64.3%), with a mean age of 55.5 years (SD16.3;min 32-max 84). As for the current incidents, the majority occurred at city roads (n = 10;71.4%), straight roads (n = 9;64.3%) and intersections (n = 3;21.4%). Many were single-vehicle (n = 4;28.6%), lateral (n = 4;28.6%) and front-lateral (n = 3;21.4%). Half of the cyclists sustained an injury of MAIS3+ severity (n = 7;50.0%). A major injury was primarily sustained at the lower extremities (n = 10;71.4%), head (n = 7;50.0%), face (5=35.7%) and upper extremities (n = 5;35.7%). The mean total hospitalization cost was 5815,6(min 209,00-max 20.647,00) and the mean direct costs arising from injury was 4.047,5(min 0,0-max 24.670,00).
Conclusions
Individual differences need to be taken into account in future injury prevention efforts as well as in attempts to improve healthcare system’s response to road victims.
Key messages
Systematic collection of data relevant to health condition and economics of the victims is necessary at European level. Personalized rehabilitation plans are necessary to facilitate the recovery process of victims.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Papadakaki
- LaHeRS Lab, Department of Social Work, Hellenic Mediterranean University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
| | | | - A Tsalkanis
- Social Work Department, University of West Attica, Athens, Greece
| | - M A Stamouli
- Department of Health Care Units and Business Administration, University of West Attica, Athens, Greece
| | - E Petelos
- Clinic of Social and Family Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
- Department of Health Services Research, CAPHRI Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - A Morandi
- Centre of Study and Research on Road Safety, Medical School, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - D Otte
- Hannover Medical University, Hannover, Germany
| | - M Sarris
- Department of Health Care Units and Business Administration, University of West Attica, Athens, Greece
| | - G Tzamalouka
- LaHeRS Lab, Department of Social Work, Hellenic Mediterranean University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
| | - J Chliaoutakis
- LaHeRS Lab, Department of Social Work, Hellenic Mediterranean University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
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Papadakaki M, Tsalkanis A, Sarris M, Pierrakos G, Eleonora Ferraro O, Stamouli MA, Orsi C, Otte D, Tzamalouka G, Lajunen T, Özkan T, Morandi A, Gnardellis C, Chliaoutakis J. Physical, psychological and economic burden of two-wheel users after a road traffic injury: Evidence from intensive care units of three EU countries. J Safety Res 2018; 67:155-163. [PMID: 30553418 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsr.2018.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2018] [Revised: 06/04/2018] [Accepted: 10/10/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This study aimed to assess the physical, psychological, and economic burden shouldered by severely injured two-wheel users in three European countries as well as the cost resulting from their hospitalization. METHODS A total of seven public hospitals were involved in three countries: Greece, Italy, and Germany. Participants enrolled during a 12-month period starting in April 2013. Eligibility criteria included an injury sustained at Road Traffic Crashes (RTC) irrespective of the type of vehicle, hospitalization 1 day in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) or sub-ICU, and age 18 years or over. Patients were interviewed at 1, 6, and 12 months upon admission. The study used widely recommended classifications for injury severity (Abbreviated Injury Severity [AIS]; Maximum Abbreviated Injury Severity [MAIS]) and standardized measures such as the Disability Assessment Schedule II (WHODAS 2.0), "Impact of Event Scale" (IES-R), Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES-D Scale). Health Care Expenditure was assessed through the Monash University Accident Research Centre (MUARC's) framework, which included measures of 'Direct' and 'Indirect' costs. Diagnosis-related groups (DRGs) were used to estimate hospitalization costs. RESULTS A total of 54 two-wheel users enrolled in the study in all the countries and 32 completed all follow-up questionnaires. Physical disability increased over 12 months following the injury. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) symptoms of avoidance remained at high levels over the study period. PTSD symptoms of intrusion improved significantly during the second half of the year under investigation. The total annual cost of injury for the two-wheel users who were hospitalized in the selected ICU of all the partner countries for severe injury in 2013/2014, was estimated at €714,491 made up of €123,457 direct and €591,034 indirect costs. Men, aged 50-64 years and those who sustained slight injuries primarily at the lower extremities presented higher indirect costs per person. A total of €1032.092 was spent on hospitalization payments. Women, aged 65+ and those who sustained severe injuries at the central body region presented higher direct costs per person. Women, aged 50-64 years, those with severe injuries and a major injury at the central body and the upper body region presented the highest hospitalization costs per person. CONCLUSIONS There is a need for effective strategies to early detect and treat groups at risk of being confronted with prolonged psychosocial and economic consequences. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS A holistic understanding of the impact of injury on individuals is important in order to achieve effective treatment of psychological co-morbidities in a timely manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Papadakaki
- Laboratory of Health and Road Safety, Department of Social Work, School of Health and Social Welfare, Technological Educational Institute of Crete, Estavromenos, P.C. 71004 Heraklion, Greece.
| | - Angelos Tsalkanis
- Department of Social Work, School of Health and Social Welfare, University of West Attica, Athens, Greece.
| | - Markos Sarris
- Department of Health Care Units and Business Administration, University of West Attica, Athens, Greece.
| | - George Pierrakos
- Department of Health Care Units and Business Administration, University of West Attica, Athens, Greece.
| | - Ottavia Eleonora Ferraro
- Centre of Study and Research on Road Safety, Medical School, University of Pavia, Via Forlanini 2, 27100 Pavia, Italy.
| | - Maria-Angeliki Stamouli
- Department of Health Care Units and Business Administration, University of West Attica, Athens, Greece
| | - Chiara Orsi
- Centre of Study and Research on Road Safety, Medical School, University of Pavia, Via Forlanini 2, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Dietmar Otte
- Hannover Medical University, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625 Hannover, Germany.
| | - Georgia Tzamalouka
- Laboratory of Health and Road Safety, Department of Social Work, School of Health and Social Welfare, Technological Educational Institute of Crete, Estavromenos, P.C. 71004 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Timo Lajunen
- Suomalainen liikennetutkimuskeskus, Traffic Research Centre of Finland, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Türker Özkan
- Suomalainen liikennetutkimuskeskus, Traffic Research Centre of Finland, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Anna Morandi
- Centre of Study and Research on Road Safety, Medical School, University of Pavia, Via Forlanini 2, 27100 Pavia, Italy.
| | | | - Joannes Chliaoutakis
- Laboratory of Health and Road Safety, Department of Social Work, School of Health and Social Welfare, Technological Educational Institute of Crete, Estavromenos, P.C. 71004 Heraklion, Greece.
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Gkioka V, Tsirigotis P, Sarris M, Soulis S, Apostolou A, Noutsias M, Dimitriadis G, Kostakis A, Boletis I, Karabinis A. Biovigilance for the Quality and Safety of Medical Products of Human Origin. J Clin Med Res 2018; 10:857-867. [PMID: 30425757 PMCID: PMC6225864 DOI: 10.14740/jocmr3549w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2018] [Accepted: 08/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Progress in science and technology in the health services has led to the development of methods of regenerating and replacing solid organs, tissues and cells, using human body components to create medical products of human origin intended for clinical use. In the activities in which products of human origin are used, however, from the point of donation and harvesting to the subsequent care of the recipient, medical products of human origin are exposed to the risk of specific complications related to the transmission of infectious diseases, and further side-effects. Biovigilance system application is a basic requirement for ensuring the quality and safety of tissues and cells intended for human use. The quality system focuses on error prevention, maintaining a consistent pattern of agreed assays for tissues and cells intended for clinical use. The implementation of quality and safety standards, the development of medical protocols and cooperation protocols between member states, the implementation of Single European Code (SEC), and the development of electronic traceability systems, all aim at vigilance and the surveillance of medical products of human origin from donation to transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasiliki Gkioka
- Biomedical Research Foundation Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Tsirigotis
- Second Propedeutic Department of Internal Medicine, "Attiko" University General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Markos Sarris
- Health and Social Care Management, University of West Attica, Athens, Greece
| | - Sotiris Soulis
- Health and Social Care Management, University of West Attica, Athens, Greece
| | - Athanasios Apostolou
- Department of Immunology and Histocompatibility, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, 41500, Larissa, Greece
| | - Michel Noutsias
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Mid-German Heart Center, Angiology and Intensive Medical Care, University Hospital Halle, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Ernst-Grube-Strasse 40, D-06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Georgios Dimitriadis
- Second Propedeutic Department of Internal Medicine, "Attiko" University General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Ioannis Boletis
- Nephrology Clinic and Kidney Transplant Unit, "Laiko" General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Andreas Karabinis
- The Onassis Cardiac Surgery Center, Cardiac Surgery Intensive Care Unit, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Abstract
The shift of the majority of cancer care from inpatient to outpatient settings has given rise to a number of issues that have not yet been adequately addressed. This is especially true in countries undergoing rapid and profound socioeconomic changes that have substantially affected the health care sector. We conducted 12 in-depth interviews with family cancer caregivers residing in socioeconomically deprived areas of Attica, Greece. Using an inductive thematic approach, we identified three major themes: (a) the truth within boundaries, focusing on the flow of information in the triad doctor-caregiver-patient; (b) the evil called "cancer," reflecting caregivers' perceptions of the illness; and (c) being left "high and dry," reflecting participant experiences of home-based care. Against a background of financial crisis, this study underlines the need for safeguarding the rights of chronically ill patients and ensuring that informal cancer care, apart from a cost-effective solution, will also be an efficient one.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Markos Sarris
- National Technological Educational Institute, Athens, Greece
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Pierrakos G, Balourdos D, Soulis S, Sarris M, Pateras J, Skolarikos P, Farfaras A. Comparative analysis and evaluation of the effectiveness of demographic policies in EU countries (2009-2010). ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 15:31-43. [PMID: 24702764 DOI: 10.12927/whp.2014.23720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This article contains a comparative analysis and evaluation of the effectiveness of population policies in European Union (EU) countries, using multivariate analysis. DATA AND METHODS To study these differences, it is primarily necessary to have the relevant data. The most recent database available was developed by the OECD in 2007 and currently covers OECD countries and most EU Member States. We used multivariate analysis to categorize the indicators into the following groups: (a) economic indicators, (b) indicators reconciling work and family life, and (c) demographic indicators. RESULTS The results of measuring the degree of coherence of factors reveal that the four most important factors influencing the effectiveness of population policy are (i) the average maternal age at first childbirth, (ii) social protection expenditure, (iii) GDP, and (iv) public spending for benefits. Based on the data from the evaluation of the correlation matrix of variables and data, the classification of countries, according to the values of the coefficients of analysis, appears as follows: the Nordic countries (together with France and the United Kingdom), the Southern European countries and the Northern countries: Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania (by a very slight margin Romania), and Bulgaria, Poland, Slovakia (and, marginally, Malta). CONCLUSIONS The key comparative findings from benchmarking best practices in the context of the European experience are the following: The EU is being demographically transformed as a direct result of an increase in average life expectancy and immigration and a decrease in fertility. Demographic factors are influenced by specific features, in contrast with economic factors which seem be less stable.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Pierrakos
- Associate Professor of Department of Health Care and Social Units Administration, Faculty of Management and Economics, Technological Educational Institute (TEI) of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Dionyssis Balourdos
- Member of the Institute for Social Policy, National Centre for Social Research, Athens, Greece
| | - Sotiris Soulis
- Professor of Department of Health Care and Social Units Administration, Faculty of Management and Economics, Technological Educational Institute (TEI) of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Markos Sarris
- Professor of Department of Health Care and Social Units Administration, Faculty of Management and Economics, Technological Educational Institute (TEI) of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - John Pateras
- Lecturer of Department of Department of Health Care and Social Units Administration, Faculty of Management and Economics, Technological Educational Institute (TEI) of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Skolarikos
- Director of Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Helena Venizelou Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Athanasios Farfaras
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Helena Venizelou Hospital, Athens, Greece
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Sarris M, Nikolaou K, Talianidis I. Context-specific regulation of cancer epigenomes by histone and transcription factor methylation. Oncogene 2013; 33:1207-17. [PMID: 23503463 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2013.87] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2012] [Accepted: 02/01/2013] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Altered expression or activity of histone lysine methylases and demethylases in cancer lead to aberrant chromatin modification patterns, which contribute to uncontrolled cell proliferation via cancer-specific deregulation of gene expression programs or the induction of genome instability. Several transcription factors that regulate growth-associated genes undergo lysine methylation, expanding the repertoire of regulatory targets modulated by histone-methylating enzymes during tumorigenesis. In certain specific tumor types or specific physiological conditions, these enzymes may trigger chromatin structure and/or transcription factor activity changes that result in opposite effects on cancer initiation or progression. The mechanisms of such context-specific dual functions and those involved in the crosstalk between factor and histone modifications are subject to extensive research, which is beginning to shed light into this novel level of complexity of cancer-related epigenetic pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Sarris
- Biomedical Sciences Research Center Alexander Fleming, Vari, Greece
| | - K Nikolaou
- Biomedical Sciences Research Center Alexander Fleming, Vari, Greece
| | - I Talianidis
- Biomedical Sciences Research Center Alexander Fleming, Vari, Greece
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Marques FZ, Pringle KG, Conquest A, Hirst JJ, Markus MA, Sarris M, Zakar T, Morris BJ, Lumbers ER. Molecular characterization of renin-angiotensin system components in human intrauterine tissues and fetal membranes from vaginal delivery and cesarean section. Placenta 2011; 32:214-21. [PMID: 21215447 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2010.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2010] [Revised: 12/05/2010] [Accepted: 12/07/2010] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
A prorenin-angiotensin system (RAS) could, via the (pro)renin receptor (ATP6AP2), have various effects in human intrauterine tissues, either directly by prorenin/ATP6AP2 cell signaling, or indirectly via angiotensin II and/or angiotensin 1-7. Here we describe RAS components in fetal membranes, decidua and placenta collected at elective cesarean section (non-laboring), after spontaneous delivery (after labor, n = 38), and in myometria (n = 16) from elective (non-laboring) or emergency cesarean (laboring) deliveries. Angiotensinogen (AGT), angiotensin-converting enzyme 1 and 2 (ACE; ACE2), angiotensin receptor 1 and 2 (AGTR1; AGTR2) and angiotensin 1-7 receptor (MAS1) mRNAs were measured by qRT-PCR and proteins were localized by immunohistochemistry. In myometrium, prorenin (REN), ATP6AP2, and downstream signaling proteins zinc finger and BTB domain-containing protein 16 (ZBTB16), transforming growth factor-β1 (TGFβ1) and prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 (PTGS2) mRNAs were also measured. RAS mRNAs, except AGTR1 and AGTR2, were abundant in decidua and lowest in amnion compared to the other tissues. ACE, AGT and PTGS2 mRNAs were higher in laboring than non-laboring myometrium, suggesting that the myometrial RAS is involved in labor. Angiotensinogen and prorenin staining in amnion, chorion and decidua was pervasive despite their mRNAs being low in amnion and chorion. In placenta, prorenin, angiotensinogen and AGTR2 were present in syncytiotrophoblasts, ACE was in fetal endothelium, while ACE2 distribution was diffuse. AGTR1 and AGTR2 mRNAs and proteins were abundant. No differences were evident in the staining patterns with labor. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that fetal vascular ACE might contribute angiotensin II to the fetus, whilst syncytial ACE2 might hypothetically have a role in converting angiotensin II to angiotensin 1-7 in maternal blood.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Z Marques
- Basic & Clinical Genomics Laboratory, School of Medical Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
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Shum A, Mahendradatta T, Gao J, Ku D, Sarris M, Clarke S, Tan T, Polly P. A Morphological Characterisation of Cancer Induced Cardiomyopathy Independent of Chemotherapeutic Intervention. Heart Lung Circ 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2011.05.145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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12
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Marques FZ, Pringle KG, Markus M, Conquest A, Hirst JJ, Sarris M, Zakar T, Morris BJ, Lumbers ER. 147. MOLECULAR CHARACTERIZATION OF RENIN - ANGIOTENSIN SYSTEM COMPONENTS IN HUMAN INTRAUTERINE TISSUES AND FETAL MEMBRANES FROM VAGINAL DELIVERY AND CAESAREAN SECTION. Reprod Fertil Dev 2010. [DOI: 10.1071/srb10abs147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The expression of the (pro)renin receptor (ATP6AP2) in late gestational human tissues suggests that the prorenin-angiotensin system (RAS) might influence pregnancy outcome. Here w e characterized the RAS in term fetal membranes (amnion and chorion), decidua and placenta (n = 38) from women undergoing elective cesarean section (non-labouring) or following spontaneous delivery (after labour), and myometrium (n = 16) from elective or emergency cesarean (labouring) deliveries. RT-qPCR was used to quantify prorenin (REN), AGT, ACE, ACE2, AGTR1, AGTR2, ATP6AP2 and MAS1 mRNAs, and immunohistochemistry was used to localize prorenin, AGT, ACE, ACE2 and AGTR1 proteins. In myometrium, mRNAs for downstream signalling proteins (ZBTB16, TGFB1 and PTGS2) were also measured. ACE and AGT mRNA levels were higher in labouring myometrium (P < 0.05), consistent with elevated production of angiotensin II (Ang II), which, by the upregulation of PTGS2 occurring in labour (P = 0.022), could influence labour. In amnion, expression of all RAS component mRNAs, except ATP6AP2, was low. After labour amnion showed lower ACE (P = 0.014) and higher AGTR2 (P = 0.01) mRNA levels. In decidua, RAS components other than AGTR1 and AGTR2 were abundant. Amnion and chorion exhibited higher immunostaining of AGT and prorenin than expected from their low mRNA levels, suggesting that these proteins could have been originated from decidua, where the cognate genes are more active. In placenta, prorenin and AGT were localized to syncytiotrophoblasts and ACE was localized to fetal capillary endothelial cells, while ACE2 distribution was diffuse. AGTR1 mRNA and protein expression was high in the placenta. We propose that ACE in fetal vessels could contribute Ang II to the fetus, while ACE2 in syncytiotrophoblasts might convert placental or maternal circulating Ang II to angiotensin-(1–7), which might then be supplied to the maternal bloodstream. In conclusion, the abundance and distribution of intrauterine RAS components suggest diverse roles for this local RAS in pregnancy.
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Watson SL, Marcal H, Sarris M, Di Girolamo N, Coroneo MTC, Wakefield D. The effect of mesenchymal stem cell conditioned media on corneal stromal fibroblast wound healing activities. Br J Ophthalmol 2009; 94:1067-73. [PMID: 19965828 DOI: 10.1136/bjo.2009.165837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To investigate the effects of conditioned media from mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) on the wound healing activities of corneal stromal fibroblasts. METHODS Cell cycle analysis and early stage activation of apoptosis, chemotactic chambers and fibroblast-populated type I collagen gels were used to assess corneal stromal fibroblast proliferation, migration and contraction, respectively. Fibroblasts were obtained from human donor corneas and MSC from fresh rat bone marrow. MSC conditioned media and fibroblast culture medium (FCM), with and without calf serum supplementation, were compared. RESULTS MSC conditioned media and serum-free FCM had an inhibitory effect on the progression of corneal fibroblasts through the cell cycle. There was a significant increase in the number of cells in the G0-G1 phase for MSC conditioned media and serum-free FCM (p=0.001, p=0.97 respectively). Fibroblast migration and relaxed and stressed gel contraction were significantly inhibited by MSC conditioned media and serum-free FCM compared with FCM with serum (all p=0.001). Glucose and lactate analysis confirmed that these factors were not contributing to this effect. CONCLUSION MSC conditioned media was found to inhibit the wound healing activities of corneal stromal fibroblasts in vitro. Putative factors secreted by MSC could be developed for therapeutic use in corneal repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- S L Watson
- Department of Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia.
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Krauthausen M, Carter S, Sarris M, Wakefield D, Heneka M, Campbell I, Müller M. CXCR3 promotes cerebellar inflammation but prevents ocular destruction in transgenic mice with a TH1-driven neuroinflammation. Akt Neurol 2008. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0028-1086722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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15
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Lauto A, Stoodley M, Marcel H, Avolio A, Sarris M, McKenzie G, Sampson DD, Foster LJR. In vitro and in vivo tissue repair with laser-activated chitosan adhesive. Lasers Surg Med 2007; 39:19-27. [PMID: 17066480 DOI: 10.1002/lsm.20418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Sutures are currently the gold standard for wound closure but they are still unable to seal tissue and may induce scarring or inflammation. Biocompatible glues, based on polysaccharides such as chitosan, are a possible alternative to conventional wound closure. In this study, the adhesion of laser-activated chitosan films is investigated in vitro and in vivo. In particular we examine the effect of varying the laser power, as well as adding a natural cross-linker (genipin) to the adhesive composition. STUDY DESIGN/MATERIALS AND METHODS Flexible and insoluble strips of chitosan films (surface area approximately 34 mm(2), thickness approximately 20 microm) were bonded to sheep intestine using several laser powers (0, 80, 120, and 160 mW) at 808-nm wavelength. The strength of repaired tissue was tested by a calibrated tensiometer to select the best power. A natural cross-linker (genipin) was also added to the film and the tissue repair strength compared with the strength of plain films. The adhesive was also bonded in vivo to the sciatic nerve of rats and the thermal damage induced by the laser assessed 4 days post-operatively. RESULTS Chitosan adhesives successfully repaired intestine tissue, attaining a maximum repair strength of 14.7+/-4.3 kPa (n = 30) at the laser power of 120 mW. The chitosan-genipin films achieved lower repair strength (9.1+/-2.9 kPa). The laser caused partial demyelination of axons at the site of operation, but the myelinated axons retained a normal morphology proximally and distally. CONCLUSIONS The chitosan adhesive effectively bonded to tissue causing only localized thermal damage in vivo, when the appropriate laser parameters were selected.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Lauto
- Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, The University of New South Wales, 2052 New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.
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Dixon G, Garrick T, Whiteman I, Sarris M, Sithamparanathan S, Harper CG. Characterization of gabaergic neurons within the human medial mamillary nucleus. Neuroscience 2004; 127:365-72. [PMID: 15262327 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2004.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/03/2004] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The morphology, distribution and relative frequency of GABAergic neurons in the medial mamillary nucleus (MMN) of normal human individuals was studied using a glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) antiserum. GAD-immunoreactive (GAD-IR) neurons were found sparsely distributed throughout the MMN and most displayed a simple bipolar morphology. A small population of large diameter GAD-IR neurons was found in the white matter capsule adjacent to the ventral border of the MMN. Results of double-labeling experiments revealed no evidence of calretinin, parvalbumin or calbindin immunoreactivities co-localizing with GAD-IR neurons. GAD-IR neurons of the MMN had an average somal area of 138+/-41 microm2, compared with the average somal area of 384+/-137 microm2 for the population of MMN neurons as a whole. GAD-IR neurons had a tendency to cluster in groups of two (and occasionally three) and showed a distribution gradient across the MMN with higher densities being found near the insertion of the fornix, the origin of the mamillo-thalamic tract and toward the medial MMN border. Quantitative estimates of GAD-IR neuron frequency revealed the GAD-IR phenotype to constitute an average of 1.7% percent of the total neuron population within the human MMN. These findings suggest that inhibitory activity within the human MMN is regulated in part by a small population of intrinsic GABAergic interneurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Dixon
- Department of Pathology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia.
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17
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Abstract
The New South Wales (NSW) Tissue Resource Centre (TRC) has been set up to provide Australian and international researchers with fixed and frozen brain tissue from cases that are well characterised, both clinically and pathologically, for projects related to neuropsychiatric and alcohol-related disorders. A daily review of the Department of Forensic Medicine provides initial information regarding a potential collection. If the case adheres to the strict inclusion criteria, the pathologist performing the postmortem examination is approached regarding retention of the brain tissue. The next of kin of the deceased is then contacted requesting permission to retain the brain for medical research. Cases are also obtained through donor programmes, where donors are assessed and consent to donate their brain during life. Once the brain is removed at autopsy, the brain is photographed, weighed and the volume determined, the brainstem and cerebellum are removed. The two hemispheres are divided, one hemisphere is fresh frozen and one fixed (randomised). Prior to freezing, the hemisphere is sliced into 1-cm coronal slices and a set of critical area blocks is taken. All frozen tissues are kept bagged at -80 degrees C. The other hemisphere is fixed in 15% buffered formalin for 2 weeks, embedded in agar and sliced at 3-mm intervals in the coronal plane. Tissue blocks from these slices are used for neuropathological analysis to exclude any other pathology. The TRC currently has 230 cases of both fixed and frozen material that has proven useful in a range of techniques in many research projects. These techniques include quantitative analyses of brain regions using neuropathological, neurochemical, neuropharmacological and gene expression assays.
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Millar EK, Beretov J, Sarris M, Lee CS. Mucinous differentiation in colonic adenocarcinoma is associated with a reduction in tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes. Eur J Surg Oncol 2001; 27:273-7. [PMID: 11373104 DOI: 10.1053/ejso.2000.1094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS The aim of this study was to examine the density of tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in colorectal carcinomas showing mucinous differentiation. METHODS We examined 33 adenocarcinomas showing variable mucinous differentiation and compared the density of TILs with that of 65 adenocarcinomas of no special type (NOS) showing no mucinous differentiation. RESULTS Mucinous differentiation is associated with a significantly lower density of TILs compared to adenocarcinoma NOS (P=0.0016; chi-squared test with continuity correction). This reduction in TILs is present also in adjacent foci of adenocarcinoma NOS within mucinous tumours. CONCLUSIONS There is a reduction in the number of TILs in all areas of colorectal adenocarcinomas that show mucinous differentiation, which may help explain the increased biological aggressiveness associated with this pattern of differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- E K Millar
- Discipline of Anatomical Pathology, Hunter Area Pathology Service and University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW 2310, Australia
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Wang MX, Murrell DF, Szabo C, Warren RF, Sarris M, Murrell GA. Nitric oxide in skeletal muscle: inhibition of nitric oxide synthase inhibits walking speed in rats. Nitric Oxide 2001; 5:219-32. [PMID: 11384195 DOI: 10.1006/niox.2001.0348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Nitric oxide (NO*) is a multifunctional messenger molecule generated by a family of enzymes called the nitric oxide synthases (NOSs). Although NOSs have been identified in skeletal muscle, specifically brain NOS (bNOS) and endothelial NOS (eNOS), their role has not been well clarified. The goals of this investigation were to (1) characterize the immunoreactivity, Ca(2+) dependence, and activity of NOS in human and rat skeletal muscle and (2) using a rat model, investigate the effect of chronic blockade of NOS on skeletal muscle structure and function. Our results showed that both human and rodent skeletal muscle had NOS activity. This NOS activity was similar to that of the endothelial and brain NOS isoforms in that it was calcium-dependent. However, Western blot analysis consistently showed that a polyclonal antibody raised against a peptide sequence of human inducible NOS (iNOS) reacted with a protein with a molecular weight (95 kDa) that was different from that of other NOS isoforms. RT-PCR analysis identified the mRNA expression of not only eNOS and bNOS but also iNOS in human and rat muscle. Inhibition of nitric oxide synthase in rats with N(omega)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) resulted in a progressive, severe reduction in walking speed (30-fold reduction in walking velocity at day 22, P < 0.001), muscle fiber cross-sectional area (40% reduction at day 22, P < 0.001), and muscle mass (40% reduction in dry weight at day 22, P < 0.01). Rats fed the same regimen of the enantiomer of L-NAME (d-NAME) had normal motor function, muscle fiber morphology, and muscle mass. Taken together, these results imply that there may be a novel nitric oxide synthase in muscle and that NO. generated from muscle may be important in muscle function.
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Affiliation(s)
- M X Wang
- Orthopaedic Research Institute, St George Hospital Campus, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
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20
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Abstract
AIMS The nm23 gene has been shown to have metastasis suppressing activity and abnormalities of the gene or its expression may be important in tumour progression and dissemination. This study was set out to investigate the possible role of the nm23 in colorectal adenocarcinoma dissemination by examining the level of nm23 protein expression in colorectal carcinoma metastasis in regional lymph nodes and the liver. METHODS Using a monoclonal antibody, NCL-nm23 (Novocastra), immunohistochemical expression of the nm23 protein was examined in cases of metastatic colorectal adenocarcinoma in regional lymph nodes (n=71) and liver (n=36). RESULTS The cases of lymph-node metastasis also had tissues from the primary carcinoma (n=71) and matching normal non-neoplastic mucosal tissues (n=71) from the colon and rectum available for the study. More than half of the cases of primary colorectal carcinoma (43/71; 60%) displayed strong nm23 immunoreactivity, with a similar proportion of the lymph-node metastases (40/71 cases; 56%) having strong nm23 immunostaining. However, only a small minority of the normal controls of non-neoplastic colorectal epithelia (12/71 cases; 17%) had strong nm23 immunoreactivity. The difference in nm23 protein expression between normal colorectal mucosa and primary colorectal carcinoma was statistically significant (P=0.0001; chi-squared test with continuity correction). However, no significant difference in nm23 protein expression was found between primary colorectal carcinoma and lymph-node metastases (P=0.81; chi-squared test with continuity correction). Most of the liver metastases (24/36 cases; 67%) had strong nm23 immunostaining but this finding was not statistically significant when compared with that seen in primary colorectal carcinoma (P=0.62; chi-squared test with continuity correction). In addition, nm23 expression was not found to significantly correlate with 5-year survival of patients with liver metastasis (P=0.86), suggesting that it had no predictive value for overall patient survival. There was also no significant correlation between disease recurrence and nm23 expression (P=0.63). CONCLUSIONS In summary, increased nm23 protein immunoreactivity is seen in the majority of colorectal carcinomas when compared to normal colorectal tissues but no significant difference in nm23 expression was found between primary colorectal carcinoma and metastatic carcinoma in regional lymph nodes or the liver. This study suggests that increased nm23 expression may be important in early colorectal carcinoma but not in later progression and dissemination of the tumour. In conclusion, the role and importance of the nm23 gene in the development of tumour metastasis in colorectal carcinoma is questionable.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Sarris
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital and Department of Pathology, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Fang ZM, Lee CS, Sarris M, Kearsley JH, Murrell D, Lavin MF, Keating K, Clarke RA. Rapid radiation-induction of ATM protein levels in situ. Pathology 2001; 33:30-6. [PMID: 11280605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
Abstract
Ataxia-telangiectasia (A-T) is characterised by hypersensitivity to ionising radiation (IR), immunodeficiency, neurodegeneration and predisposition to malignancy. Mutations in the A-T gene (ATM) often result in reduced levels of ATM protein and/or compromise ATM function. IR induced DNA damage is known to rapidly upregulate ATM kinase activity/phosphorylation events in the control of cell cycle progression and other processes. Variable expression of ATM levels in different tissues and its upregulation during cellular proliferation indicate that the level of ATM is also regulated by mechanisms other than gene mutation. Here, we report on the IR induction of ATM protein levels within a number of different cell types and tissues. Induction had begun within 5 min and peaked within 2 h of exposure to 2 Gy of IR, suggesting a rapid post-translational mechanism. Low basal levels of ATM protein were more responsive to IR induction compared to high ATM levels in the same cell type. Irradiation of fresh skin biopsies led to an average three-fold increase in ATM levels while immunohistochemical analyses indicated "low expressing" cells within the basal layer with ten-fold increases in ATM levels following IR. ATM "high expressing" lymphoblastoid cell lines (LCLs) which were initially resistant to the radiation-induction of ATM levels also became responsive to IR after ATM antisense expression was used to reduce the basal levels of the protein. These results demonstrate that ATM is present in variable amounts in different tissue/cell types and where basal levels are low ATM levels can be rapidly induced by IR to saturable levels specific for different cell types. ATM radiation-induction is a sensitive and rapid radioprotective response that complements the IR mediated activation of ATM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z M Fang
- Division of Cancer Services, The St. George Hospital, University of NSW, Kogarah, Australia
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Millar EK, Beretov J, Marr P, Sarris M, Clarke RA, Kearsley JH, Lee CS. Malignant phyllodes tumours of the breast display increased stromal p53 protein expression. Histopathology 1999; 34:491-6. [PMID: 10383692 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2559.1999.00666.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To determine the variation in p53 protein expression in phyllodes tumours and fibroadenomas of the breast. METHODS AND RESULTS Fifteen phyllodes tumours (six malignant, nine benign) and 20 fibroadenomas were examined for p53 expression by immunohistochemistry. Five of the six malignant phyllodes tumours showed moderate or strong p53 positivity at sites of peri-epithelial stromal condensation and atypia. All 20 fibroadenomas, nine benign phyllodes tumours and one malignant phyllodes tumour showed either negativity or focal weak nuclear positivity of scattered stromal cells. CONCLUSIONS Increased p53 immunoreactivity is present in malignant phyllodes tumours in contrast to benign phyllodes tumours and fibroadenomas. Malignant phyllodes tumours display a distinctive pattern of p53 immunostaining which may be of diagnostic value. These findings suggest that p53 protein may be important in the progression of benign to malignant phyllodes tumours.
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Affiliation(s)
- E K Millar
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, N.S.W., Australia
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Abstract
BACKGROUND The gene Nm23 is thought to play a role in the suppression of tumour metastasis. Reduced expression of Nm23 is seen in a number of human cancers, and is associated with increased metastasis and reduced survival, most strongly in ductal breast and colorectal carcinomas. METHODS Nm23 gene expression was compared in gastric carcinoma and normal gastric mucosa. Twenty-three gastric carcinomas were graded for differentiation as either well, moderately or poorly differentiated. Metastatic deposits from seven of the cases were also examined, along with 10 samples of normal gastric mucosa. Specimens were incubated with a murine monoclonal antibody against the protein product of Nm23, and examined by immunohistochemical staining. A semiquantitative immunostaining index was used. RESULTS All normal mucosa showed moderate to strong staining; 8 of 15 poorly differentiated carcinomas showed absent or weak staining; 1 of 6 moderately differentiated carcinomas stained weakly. Both well-differentiated carcinomas stained strongly; 1 of 7 metastatic deposits stained weakly. The difference in Nm23 expression between normal mucosa and carcinomas was statistically significant (P=0.024). However, there was no statistically significant difference between the three grades of carcinomas (P=0.51), or between primary and metastatic tumour (P=0.25, all by Chi-squared test). CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that Nm23 may have a role in gastric carcinoma pathogenesis, but do not show a correlation with metastasis. A larger study, involving detailed clinical staging and follow-up, may be of benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Yeung
- Department of Surgery, Sutherland Hospital, Caringbah, New South Wales, Australia
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Varla-Leftherioti M, Sarris M, Zarmacoupi P, Katsani M, Mitsaki C, Papadaki O, Stavropoulos-Giokas C. Organ donors reported to the Hellenic Transplant Service during the last 5 years. Transplant Proc 1991; 23:2524-5. [PMID: 1926461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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Sarris M, Georgoulis J, Gatos M, Dariotis A. [A case of strangulated congenital diaphragmatic hernia with necrosis and rupture of the colon and herniation into a left hemithorax in an adult (author's transl)]. Sem Hop 1980; 56:43-5. [PMID: 6244627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
This is a case report of a successful repair of congenital diaphragmatic hernia in a 48 years old male that contained the transverse colon which was strangulated and ruptured in the left thoracic cavity. It was approached in two stages. First through a laparotomy the proximal part of the transverse colon was divided. The side going to the hernial sac was sutured and the proximal stump was anastomosed to the descending colon. In a second stage, two days later, through a felt thoracotomy the strangulated and ruptured colon was resected and the distal stump of the transverse colon was sutured and the hernia repaired.
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Sarris M, Georgoulis I, Dariotis A. [Benign duodeno-colic fistula due to duodenal ulcer (author's transl)]. J Chir (Paris) 1978; 115:305-6. [PMID: 681464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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Sarris M, Georgoulis J, Gatos M, Zervos SN. [Intestinal obstruction caused by anticoagulant therapy (author's transl)]. Schweiz Rundsch Med Prax 1974; 63:1309-11. [PMID: 4438248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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Sarris M, Georgoulis J, Gatos M, Zervos SN. [Intestinal obstruction syndrome as a complication of prolonged anticoagulant treatment]. Schweiz Med Wochenschr 1974; 104:1480-2. [PMID: 4547853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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Sarris M, Poungouras P. [Ischemic stenosis of the transverse colon]. Ann Chir 1968; 22:1341-5. [PMID: 5712353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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30
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Sarris M. [Use of the free skin graft in the surgical treatment of hernias]. Ann Chir 1965; 19:1365-8. [PMID: 5321649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
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