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BackgroundIntracranial hemorrhage due to a ruptured aneurysm is one of the most serious neurosurgical emergencies. The patient mostly presents with severe headaches and neurological deterioration. A rapid diagnosis and an interdisciplinary approach play a major role in the fate of these patients. The treatment can vary from endovascular to surgical and must be carefully and individually planned. Neurovascular expertise and an interdisciplinary approach are of vital importance and obligatory for the best possible outcome.MethodsIn this narrative review, we scrutinize the current literature and discuss the actual data and guidelines in order to emphasize the importance of the interdisciplinary expertise and approach in patients with ruptured intracranial aneurysm.ResultsThe current approach to patients with ruptured aneurysm is inhomogeneous and often ineffective due to internal disputes between different disciplines. Although there is plenty of literature and hard evidence to “show the way,” many still choose to base their decisions on personal experience or opinion.ConclusionsEvery ruptured brain aneurysm should be approached in an interdisciplinary manor and treated according to the current evidence and guidelines.

Abstract Introduction In the present letter we share the results of an analysis of more than 140,000 non traumatic arterial subarachnoid hemorrhages whereas the majority of them is expected to be after aneurysm rupture, in which we investigate a possible correlation of climatic changes and emotional bursts as correlating factors for such a rupture. Methods We obtained the daily number of SAH from 2006 to 2018 for males and females from the German National statistics agency. The ICD codes provided to us were I60.1-I60.7, which are SAHs originating from intracranial arteries and excluding traumatic SAH and other not specified SAH. Results An increase of mean SAH per day could be seen in winter compared to summer and family events seemed to have a protective effect against aneurysmal SAH. Additionally 6.55 more women per day suffer an SAH compared to men. Conclusion There is a statistical significant higher risk of aneurysm ruptures in winter and in females, and a statistical lower number in Mother’s day.

Alpha-synuclein (SNCA) accumulation plays a central role in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease. Determining and interfering with the mechanisms that control SNCA expression is one approach to limiting disease progression. Currently, most of our understanding of SNCA regulation is protein-based. Post-transcriptional mechanisms directly regulating SNCA mRNA expression via its 3′ untranslated region (3′UTR) were investigated here. Mass spectrometry of proteins pulled down from murine brain lysates using a biotinylated SNCA 3′UTR revealed multiple RNA-binding proteins, of which HNRNPD/AUF1 was chosen for further analysis. AUF1 bound both proximal and distal regions of the SNCA 3′UTR, but not the 5′UTR or CDS. In the nucleus, AUF1 attenuated SNCA pre-mRNA maturation and was indispensable for the export of SNCA transcripts. AUF1 destabilized SNCA transcripts in the cytosol, primarily those with shorter 3′UTRs, independently of microRNAs by recruiting the CNOT1-CNOT7 deadenylase complex to trim the polyA tail. Furthermore, AUF1 inhibited SNCA mRNA binding to ribosomes. These data identify AUF1 as a multi-tasking protein regulating maturation, nucleocytoplasmic shuttling, stability and translation of SNCA transcripts.

Purpose: Carotid-cavernous fistulas (CCFs) are often underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed. In polytraumatized patients, the focus is primarily on treating potentially life-threatening conditions such as increased intracranial pressure and hemorrhages. This case report aims to identify common diagnostic mistakes in rare pathologies. Objective: We present a case of a young female patient who was admitted to the emergency room after a motorbike accident. The patient's vital parameters were successfully stabilized, and she spent approximately four weeks in the ICU and neurosurgical ward. The patient exhibited limited communication, ophthalmoplegia, and a swollen, red left eye. After four weeks, the patient's parents initiated admission to our department due to the suspicious red swollen eye. Angiography revealed a complete rupture of the internal carotid artery (ICA) into the cavernous sinus, and occlusion of the ICA showed significant improvement in the eye edema and the patient's mental state. Two days later, the patient was able to communicate with complex sentences. Three months after the occlusion, the patient showed positive progress, posting dancing videos on TikTok. Conclusion and Importance: A carotid-cavernous fistula presenting with a red swollen eye can be misdiagnosed as retrobulbar hematoma or conjunctivitis. Failure to recognize and treat it promptly can lead to severe morbidity.

Background and Aim: Vascular neurosurgical expertise is highly in demand in African countries.To create a sustainable environment for treating the patients, local neurosurgeons have tobe trained and be able to operate under the local circumstances, and equipment and on-sitefellowship programs are needed. We have reported the results of the first completed on-sitecerebrovascular fellowship in Cameroon and to our knowledge, in central Africa. Methods and Materials/Patients: Forty-two cerebrovascular cases (38 aneurysms) wereoperated by the cerebrovascular expert and his fellows microsurgically from April 2021to November 2022. The expert traveled to Cameroon four times. Online conferences andtheoretical courses were organized.Results: The overall morbidity rate was 10.5% with a long-term functional morbidity rate of5.2%. The intraoperative mortality rate was 0 and the 30-day mortality rate was 2.7%. Aftercompletion of the program, the fellow’s surgical skills concerning operating time, intraoperativecomplications, and mortality improved significantly. Conclusion: The on-site cerebrovascular fellowship program in sub-Saharan countries is feasibleand provides the patient with high-quality surgery with outcomes similar to Western countries.The caseload in two years is sufficient enough to provide excellent training to the local fellows.There is a high demand for further fellowships, like the one we described. It is important for thetrainer to stay dedicated to the program until the completion of it. To provide the fellows with ahigh caseload, only two fellows should be trained, which are participating in every case

The present work evaluates the effect of Co content on the microstructure and corrosion performance of Al–Co alloys of various compositions (2–32 wt% Co), fabricated by flux-assisted stir casting. A preliminary investigation on the effect of heat treatment (600 °C, up to 72 h) on the microstructure and corrosion behavior of Al–20 wt% Co and Al–32 wt% Co was also conducted. The Al– (2–10) wt% Co alloys were composed of acicular Al9Co2 particles uniformly dispersed in an Al matrix. The Al–20 wt% Co and Al–32 wt% Co alloys additionally contained Al13Co4 blades enveloped in Al9Co2 wedges. Heat treatment of Al–20 wt% Co and Al–32 wt% Co led to a significant reduction in the volume fraction of Al13Co4 and a decrease in hardness. Al–Co alloys with high Co content (10–32 wt% Co) exhibited greater resistance to localized corrosion in 3.5 wt% NaCl, but lower resistance to general corrosion compared to the (0–5 wt% Co) alloys. Heat treatment led to a slight increase in the corrosion resistance of the Al–Co alloys. The microstructure of the produced alloys was analyzed and correlated with the corrosion performance. Finally, corrosion mechanisms were formulated.

In this study, we perform an extensive evaluation of a simple model for hydrate equilibrium calculations of binary, ternary, and limited quaternary gas hydrate systems that are of practical interest for separation of gas mixtures. We adopt the model developed by Lipenkov and Istomin and analyze its performance at temperature conditions higher than the lower quadruple point. The model of interest calculates the dissociation pressure of mixed gas hydrate systems using a simple combination rule that involves the hydrate dissociation pressures of the pure gases and the gas mixture composition, which is at equilibrium with the aqueous and hydrate phases. Such an approach has been used extensively and successfully in polar science, as well as research related to space science where the temperatures are very low. However, the particular method has not been examined for cases of higher temperatures (i.e., above the melting point of the pure water). Such temperatures are of interest to practical industrial applications. Gases of interest for this study include eleven chemical components that are related to industrial gas-mixture separations. Calculations using the examined methodology, along with the commercial simulator CSMGem, are compared against experimental measurements, and the range of applicability of the method is delineated. Reasonable agreement (particularly at lower hydrate equilibrium pressures) between experiments and calculations is obtained considering the simplicity of the methodology. Depending on the hydrate-forming mixture considered, the percentage of absolute average deviation in predicting the hydrate equilibrium pressure is found to be in the range 3–91%, with the majority of systems having deviations that are less than 30%.

(1) Background: The chicken egg is an animal product of great agronomic interest. The egg white and yolk constitute high-quality protein sources for humans with high digestibility and well-balanced amino acid profiles. Despite the egg white and yolk protein’s undisputed value, research to unravel their full proteome content and its properties is still ongoing. We aimed to exhaustively analyze the proteome of egg white and yolk by applying intrinsic proteomics and bioinformatics approaches in order to unravel the full protein potential of this landmark food. (2) Methods: A total of 45 freshly laid, unfertilized, chicken eggs were subjected to nanoLC-MS/MS Orbitrap analysis following a peptide pre-fractionation step. A comprehensive bioinformatics processing step was undertaken towards elucidating potential activities and roles of identified molecules. In parallel, the literature was mined concerning all reported egg white and yolk protein identifications. (3) Results: Our analysis revealed 371 and 428 new proteins, reported for the first time to be present in the egg white and yolk, respectively. From the bioactivity standpoint, egg white and yolk proteins showed high enrichment for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory processes, while exerting high relevance for the apoptosis and focal adhesion pathways. (4) Conclusions: Egg white and yolk proteins exert diverse and multifaceted properties. A total of 799 proteins were reported for the first time as being part of the egg and yolk. Our novel protein data enriched those already published in the literature and the first ever chicken egg white and yolk Protein Atlas, comprising 1392 protein entries, was generated. This dataset will provide a cornerstone reference for future studies involving egg proteins.

Novel aluminium matrix composites have been fabricated using a powder metallurgy route with reinforcement phase particles of high entropy alloy (HEA) consisting of third transition metals. These new composites are studied as far as their microstructure (SEM, XRD), basic mechanical properties (hardness, elastic modulus) and creep response using nanoindentation techniques are concerned. Wear (sliding wear tests) and corrosion behaviour (in 3.5 wt.% NaCl environment) were also assessed. It was observed that, microstructurally, no secondary intermetallic phases were formed. Hardness and wear resistance seemed to increase with the increase in HEA particles, and in terms of corrosion, the composites exhibited susceptibility to localised forms. Nanoindentation techniques and creep response showed findings that are connected with the deformation nature of both the Al matrix and the HEA reinforcing phase.

The global outbreak of SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19 provided the stage to accumulate an enormous biomedical data set and an opportunity as well as a challenge to test new concepts and strategies to combat the pandemic. New research and molecular medical protocols may be deployed in different scientific fields, e.g., glycobiology, nanopharmacology, or nanomedicine. We correlated clinical biomedical data derived from patients in intensive care units with structural biology and biophysical data from NMR and/or CAMM (computer-aided molecular modeling). Consequently, new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches against SARS-CoV-2 were evaluated. Specifically, we tested the suitability of incretin mimetics with one or two pH-sensitive amino acid residues as potential drugs to prevent or cure long-COVID symptoms. Blood pH values in correlation with temperature alterations in patient bodies were of clinical importance. The effects of biophysical parameters such as temperature and pH value variation in relation to physical-chemical membrane properties (e.g., glycosylation state, affinity of certain amino acid sequences to sialic acids as well as other carbohydrate residues and lipid structures) provided helpful hints in identifying a potential Achilles heel against long COVID. In silico CAMM methods and in vitro NMR experiments (including 31P NMR measurements) were applied to analyze the structural behavior of incretin mimetics and SARS-CoV fusion peptides interacting with dodecylphosphocholine (DPC) micelles. These supramolecular complexes were analyzed under physiological conditions by 1H and 31P NMR techniques. We were able to observe characteristic interaction states of incretin mimetics, SARS-CoV fusion peptides and DPC membranes. Novel interaction profiles (indicated, e.g., by 31P NMR signal splitting) were detected. Furthermore, we evaluated GM1 gangliosides and sialic acid-coated silica nanoparticles in complex with DPC micelles in order to create a simple virus host cell membrane model. This is a first step in exploring the structure–function relationship between the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and incretin mimetics with conserved pH-sensitive histidine residues in their carbohydrate recognition domains as found in galectins. The applied methods were effective in identifying peptide sequences as well as certain carbohydrate moieties with the potential to protect the blood–brain barrier (BBB). These clinically relevant observations on low blood pH values in fatal COVID-19 cases open routes for new therapeutic approaches, especially against long-COVID symptoms.

Abstract Background Although a larger proportion of colorectal surgeries have been performed laparoscopically in the last few years, a steep learning curve prevents us from considering laparoscopic colorectal surgery as the gold standard technique for treating disease entities in the colon and rectum. The purpose of this single centre study was to determine, using various parameters and following a well-structured and standardized surgical procedure, the adequate number of cases after which a single surgeon qualified in open surgery but with no previous experience in laparoscopic colorectal surgery and without supervision, can acquire proficiency in this technique. Methods From 2012 to 2019, 112 patients with pathology in the rectum and colon underwent laparoscopic colorectal resection by a team led by the same surgeon. The patients were divided into two groups (group A:50 – group B:62) and their case records and histopathology reports were examined for predefined parameters, statistically analysed and compared between groups. Results There was no significant difference between groups in the distribution of conversions (p = 0.635) and complications (p = 0.637). Patients in both groups underwent surgery for the same median number of lymph nodes (p = 0.145) and stayed the same number of days in the hospital (p = 0.109). A statistically important difference was found in operation duration both for the total (p = 0.006) and for each different type of colectomy (sigmoidectomy: p = 0.026, right colectomy: p = 0.013, extralevator abdominoperineal resection: p = 0.050, low anterior resection: p = 0.083). Conclusions Taking into consideration all the parameters, it is our belief that a surgeon acquires proficiency in laparoscopic colorectal surgery after performing at least 50 diverse cases with a well structured and standardized surgical procedure.

Phthalates are used in industry as plasticizers or additives in everyday products and they have been considered as endocrine disrupting chemicals. Maternal exposure during pregnancy has been associated with neonatal exposure, preterm birth and impacts in the reproductive and respiratory systems. The aim of this study is to determine six phthalate metabolites (mono isobutyl phthalate, miBP, mono n-butyl phthalate, mnBP, mono benzyl phthalate, mBzP, mono ethylhexyl phthalate, mEHP, mono 2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexyl phthalate, mEHHP, mono 2-ethyl-5-oxohexyl-phthalate, mEOHP) in amniotic fluid and urine from 100 pregnant women. Participants answered questionnaires for the use of plastics and cosmetics, dietary habits, health effects, pregnancy problems, health and infant development. Positive amniotic fluid samples ranged from 1% to 21% and urine from 27% to 54%. The median levels for amniotic fluid were 2.3 μg/L - 10.7 μg/L and for urine 4.9 μg/L - 46.7 μg/L. The major results include significant correlations between urinary phthalates indicating their common sources of exposure, the frequent use of deodorant was significantly associated with higher urinary miBP (p = 0.050) and mnBP (p = 0.028) and a weak inverse association was found for the use of make-up products with mBzP (p = 0.053). The frequent use of plastic food containers was significantly associated with urinary mEHP (p = 0.026), and a positive trend was noticed for mEHP in amniotic fluid (p = 0.093). An association although weak was found between urinary mEHP and lower birth length (rs = 0.396, p = 0.062). No other associations were found for infant health problems or development. The daily intake of the total phthalates was calculated 5.4 μg/kg body weight/day which corresponds to hazard index 0.10 and exposure follows the declining trend that has been observed the last decades.

Donkey's milk has been recognized as milk of high biological value and it also has the closest composition to human milk. However, the total protein content of donkey's milk has not been adequately identified. The aim of this analysis is to investigate the proteomic content of that milk. Specific commercially available only milk was analyzed by ``shotgun'' proteomic methods to identify the proteins it contained in as much detail as possible. The application of the above approach resulted in the identification of a total of 633 different proteins, which were grouped based on their molecular function and their biological process. Furthermore, the proteins visualized graphically according to the GeneOntology (GO) system. The identified proteins confirm the high nutritional value of the donkey milk, governing future steps in optimizing its characteristic and uses.

The objectives of the present work were to evaluate the semen of dogs by means of proteomics methods and to compare with proteomics results of the blood of the animals, in order to increase available knowledge on the topic and present relevant reference values for semen samples. Semen samples were collected from five Beagle-breed dogs. Reproductive assessment of the animals by means of clinical, ultrasonographic and seminological examinations confirmed their reproductive health. The sperm-rich fraction and the prostatic fraction of semen were processed for proteomics evaluation. LC-MS/MS analysis was performed by means of a LTQ Orbitrap Elite system. The technology combines high separation capacity and strong qualitative ability of proteins in biological samples that require deep proteome coverage. Protein classification was performed based on their functional annotations using Gene Ontology (GO). In blood plasma, semen sperm-rich fraction, and semen prostatic fraction, 59, 42 and 43 proteins, respectively, were detected. Two proteins were identified simultaneously in plasma and the semen sperm-rich fraction, 11 proteins in plasma and the semen prostatic fraction, and three proteins in the semen sperm-rich and prostatic fractions. In semen samples, most proteins were related to cell organization and biogenesis, metabolic processes or transport of ions and molecules. Most proteins were located in the cell membrane, the cytosol or the nucleus. Finally, most proteins performed functions related to binding or enzyme regulation. There were no differences between the semen sperm-rich fraction and prostatic fractions in terms of the clustering of proteins. In conclusion, a baseline reference for proteins in the semen of Beagle-breed dogs is provided. These proteins are involved mostly in supporting spermatozoan maturation, survival and motility, enhancing the reproductive performance of male animals. There appears potential for the proteomics examination of semen to become a tool in semen evaluation. This analysis may potentially identify biomarkers for reproductive disorders. This can be particularly useful in stud animals, also given its advantage as a non-invasive method.

The collagen-integrin interactions are mediated by the doubly charged Mg2+ cation. In nature this cation seems to have the optimal binding strength to stabilize this complex. It is essential that the binding is not too weak so that the complex becomes unstable, however, it is also of importance that the ligand-receptor binding is still labile enough so that the ligand can separate from the receptor in a suited environment. In the case of crystal growing for experimentally useful integrin-collagen fragment complexes it turned out that Co2+ cations are ideal mediators to form stable complexes for such experiments. Although, one can argue that Co2+ is in this context an artificial cation, however, it is now of special interest to test the impact of this cation in cell-culture experiments focusing on integrin-ligand interactions. In order to examine, in particular, the role cobalt ions we have studied a Co2+ based model system using quantum chemical calculations. Thereby, we have shown that hybrid and long-range corrected functional, which are approximations provide already a sufficient level of accuracy. It is of interest to study a potential impact of cations on the binding of collagen-fragments including collagens from various species because different integrins have numerous biological functions (e.g. Integrin – NCAM (Neural cell adhesion molecule) interactions) and are triggered by intact and degraded collagen fragments. Since integrin–carbohydrate interactions play a key role when bio-medical problems such as tumor cell adhesion and virus-host cell infections have to be addressed on a sub-molecular level it is essential to understand the interactions with heavy-metal ions also at the sub-atomic level. Our findings open new routes, especially, in the fields of tissue repair and neuro-oncology for example for cell-culture experiments with different ions. Since Co2+ ions seem to bind stronger to integrin than Mg2+ ions it should be feasible to exchange these cations in suited tumor tissues although different cations are present in other metalloproteins which are active in such tissues. Various staining methods can be applied to document the interactions of integrins with carbohydrate chains and other target structures. Thereby, it is possible to study a potential impact of these interactions on biological functions. It was therefore necessary to figure out first which histological–glycobiological experimental settings of tumor cells are suited for our purpose. Since the interactions of several metalloproteins (integrin, ADAM12) with polysialic acid and the HNK-1 epitope play a crucial role in tumor tissues selected staining methods are proper tools to obtain essential information about the impact of the metal ions under study.

The introductory article offers a general overview of the highly complicated concept of insularity as discussed variously in historical and archaeological discourse. It also provides a context of sacred landscapes and religious identities, when discussed in relation to insularity. Finally, it outlines the general themes discussed in this Special Issue and situates the Unlocking Sacred Landscapes (UnSaLa) research network and the current volume in the context of the current state-of-art.

Abstract Background Postpneumonectomy-like syndrome is a rare condition resulting from unilateral lung disease with severe lung volume loss leading to excessive mediastinal shift and herniation of the healthy lung into the contralateral hemithorax, mimicking the mediastinal shift observed in postpneumonectomy syndrome after pneumonectomy. We report a unique case of postpneumonectomy-like syndrome caused by an atypical bronchial carcinoid completely occluding the left main bronchus. Case presentation A 25-year-old woman presented with symptoms of chronic exertional dyspnea and productive cough. Imaging studies showed complete left lung atelectasis due to a mass occluding the left main bronchus, as well as extreme mediastinal deviation and substantial herniation of the right lung into the left hemithorax. Bronchoscopic biopsy of the tumor and subsequent left pneumonectomy with concurrent lymph node dissection revealed an atypical carcinoid. Sixteen months after surgery the patient has been asymptomatic with repeat imaging studies showing no change in mediastinal shifting. Conclusion Bronchial carcinoids are notorious for causing bronchial obstruction. The present case represents an extreme complication of centrally located bronchial carcinoid, resulting in postpneumonectomy-like syndrome with severe mediastinal shift and herniation of the healthy lung into the diseased hemithorax.

Al-Co alloys is an emerging category of metallic materials with promising properties and potential application in various demanding environments. Over the years, different manufacturing techniques have been employed to fabricate Al-Co alloys, spanning from conventional casting to rapid solidification techniques, such as melt spinning, thus leading to a variety of different microstructural features. The effect of the fabrication method on the microstructure is crucial, affecting the morphology and volume of the precipitates, the formation of supersaturated solid solutions and the development of amorphous phases. In addition, the alloy composition has an effect on the type and volume fraction of intermetallic phases formed. As a result, alloy properties are largely affected by the microstructural outcomes. This review focuses on highlighting the effect of the fabrication techniques and composition on the microstructure and properties of Al-Co alloys. Another goal is to highlight areas in the field that are not well understood. The advantages and limitations of this less common category of Al alloys are being discussed with the scope of future prospects and potential applications.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the central nervous system, and results in the degradation of the myelin sheath. The study investigates the neuroprotective effects of krill oil (KO) on the cuprizone (CPZ)-induced demyelination of the MS mouse model. The results suggested that KO treatment can improve the motor abnormalities and cognitive deficit of MS mice, as demonstrated by the open field, rotarod and Morris water maze tests. Meanwhile, the CPZ-induced demyelination of mice was alleviated after KO treatment and KO can attenuate the CPZ-induced oxidative stress. Furthermore, KO reduces M1 microglia activation and promotes M2 microglia polarization in the corpus callosum. Moreover, our studies indicated that KO diminished histone deacetylase (HDAC)3, phosphorylated signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) 3 and NF-κB p65 protein expression levels. In conclusion, KO exerts its neuroprotective actions in mice with CPZ-induced demyelination possibly by modulating the HDAC3/STAT3/NF-κB signaling pathways.

Intracranial aneurysms are known to rupture spontaneously in the absence of exogenous stimuli. Physical exercise or stress situations, with their accompanying rise in blood pressure, are often associated with aneurysm rupture. Very few cases reported in the literature show a suspected correlation of aneurysm rupture, aneurysm formation, or both with traumatic head injury. In most cases reported in the literature, a diagnosis of ruptured aneurysm is made only at postmortem examination, which explains why these cases are published in forensic medicine journals. We present a case of a 36-year-old male patient with ruptured aneurysm of the left posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA) in the context with head trauma, allegedly under the influence of alcohol. The initial native computed tomography (CT) scan of the patient showed blood pattern, which was atypical for traumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) and typical for aneurysmal SAH. The CT-Angiography was inconclusive. Conventional angiography was performed and the PICA aneurysm was diagnosed. Trapping of the aneurysm with PICA-PICA side to side anastomosis was performed. The patient was discharged 21 days after admission without neurological deficits. In conclusion, even in cases of obvious head trauma, patients should undergo further diagnostic testing, when CT imaging reveals a blood pattern, which is typical for aneurysmal SAH.

The purpose of the study is to examine the effect of the ankle joint range of motion (ROM) on the vertical jump (VJ) performance of adult handball players. The active (ACT) and passive (PAS) ankle joint ROM of 12 male members of the U21 National Handball Team with the knee joint at 0°, 40°, and 90° flexion (0° = fully extended knee) was evaluated using a video analysis measuring method. Participants also performed maximum VJ with (CMJ) and without (SQJ) countermovement, as well as with (AS) and without (NAS) an arm swing. Statistical analyses included 2 × 2 × 3 MANOVA, 2 × 2 repeated measures ANOVA, and Pearson’s correlation. Results reveal that PAS-ROM was larger (p < 0.05) in all knee joint flexion angles. ROM was smaller (p < 0.05) by approximately 10° at 0° compared to 90° knee flexion. No lateral effects on ROM due to the handedness of the players were observed. AS and CM resulted in increased jump height (p < 0.05). Finally, ACT-ROM when the knee joint was flexed at 40° was highly correlated (r ≥ 0.66, p < 0.05) with VJ performance except for CMJ-AS. In conclusion, the differences in the bi-articular gastrocnemius muscle flexibility due to the alteration of the angular position of the examined joints affected the ability to generate impulse during the VJ tests.

Bacteriological, cytological and proteomics data have been obtained from ewes in two experiments, after intramammary challenge with Mannheimia haemolytica or Staphylococcus chromogenes. Animals were sampled before and sequentially after challenge. Conventional techniques were employed for bacterial isolation and somatic cell counting in milk samples; milk whey samples were subjected to proteomics evaluation by using two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry. There was a correlation between leucocyte content and cathelicidin-1 spot densities in milk samples, although the protein was detected in milk earlier than the increase in leucocyte content. There was also a significant association between presence of mastitis in a mammary gland and detection of cathelicidin-1 in the respective milk sample; the degree of association was greater during the first 24 h post-inoculation. The data are further discussed in the research article “Detection of cathelicidin-1 in the milk as an early indicator of mastitis in ewes” [1]. Keywords: Biomarker, Diagnosis, Mastitis, Sheep, Somatic cell counts

The Cyclades islands in the South Aegean initially attracted the attention of prehistorians approaching islands as ‘laboratories’ for the study of cultural development, examining the notions of ‘isolation’ and ‘connectivity’, or, more recently, by introducing new terminologies, such as ‘seascape’ and ‘islandscape’. The wealth of material remains of the post-medieval era in the Cyclades islands (e.g., ecclesiastical architecture, ceramics) and the textual record available (e.g., Ottoman tax registers, travellers’ accounts) provide fascinating evidence regarding the construction of sacred landscapes, self-expression, community, and maritime identities throughout the period of Ottoman domination. The main aim of this article is to examine the historical contingencies and the distribution of a vast number of rural churches, primarily as evidence for religious expression, in order to capture island dynamics and the formation of religious and community identities, as imprinted onto the sacred landscapes of the island of Paros. By shifting our focus from the imperial Ottoman to the local Cycladic, we come to appreciate islanders as decisive agents of their maritime identities, creating rituals and sacred spaces, sometimes beyond the strict borders of institutional religion.

The medical term xerostomia refers to the subjective sensation of oral dryness. The etiology seems to be multifactorial with the most frequently reported causes being the use of xerostomic medications, neck and head radiation, and systematic diseases (such as Sjögren’s syndrome). Xerostomia is associated with an increased incidence of dental caries, oral fungal infections, and difficulties in speaking and chewing/swallowing, which ultimately affect the oral health-related quality of life. The development of successful management schemes is regarded as a highly challenging project due to the complexity of saliva. This is why, in spite of the fact that there are therapeutic options aiming to improve salivary function, most management approaches are alleviation-oriented. In any case, polymers are an integral part of the various formulations used in every current treatment approach, especially in the saliva substitutes, due to their function as thickening and lubricating agents or, in the case of mucoadhesive polymers, their ability to prolong the treatment effect. In this context, the present review aims to scrutinize the literature and presents an overview of the role of various polymers (or copolymers) on either already commercially available formulations or novel drug delivery systems currently under research and development.

Abstract Drosophila chorion represents a remarkable model system for the in vivo study of complex extracellular-matrix architectures. For its organization and structure, s38 protein is considered as a component of major importance, since it is synthesized and secreted during early choriogenesis. However, there is no evidence that proves its essential, or redundant, role in chorion biogenesis. Hence, we show that targeted downregulation of s38 protein, specifically in the ovarian follicle-cell compartment, via employment of an RNAi-mediated strategy, causes generation of diverse dysmorphic phenotypes, regarding eggshell’s regionally and radially specialized structures. Downregulation of s38 protein severely impairs fly’s fertility and is unable to be compensated by the s36 homologous family member, thus unveiling s38 protein’s essential contribution to chorion’s assembly and function. Altogether, s38 acts as a key skeletal protein being critically implicated in the patterning establishment of a highly structured tripartite endochorion. Furthermore, it seems that s38 loss may sensitize choriogenesis to stochastic variation in its coordination and timing.

Over the last years, there has been tremendous debate regarding the identity of feta cheese and under which terms such food with historical ties to ancient Greece can be discriminated among others, based on its unique traits and characteristics. This analysis sets the foundation towards a much anticipated control procedure, by deciphering for the first time the core elements of this food; its proteins. In this initial report, we amassed representative feta cheese samples/types from parts of Greece entitled to produce this “protected designation of origin” (p.d.o) cheese type and analyzed in full their protein content by employing exhaustive deep-proteome analyses. Several groups of proteins were identified, implicated in diverse functions as well as proteins under multiple abundances, while the final feta cheese protein list was set to include solely core-proteins identified in every analyzed sample. Through this data article we report, for the first time, the complete protein content of feta cheese, consisting of 489 proteins, thus setting the foundation towards developing a method for identification of the original Greek product.

Abstract Background Inflammatory responses are implicated as crucial patho-mechanisms of vascular brain malformations. Inflammation is suggested to be a key contributor to aneurysm rupture; however it is unclear whether inflammation contributes similarly to bleeding of cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs). Black blood MRI is a sequence which identifies inflammation in blood vessel walls and in the present study is used to detect inflammatory response in CCMs. Methods Fifteen patients with 17 CCMs treated in our department in 2017 were retrospectively analysed. All patients received black blood MRIs and the results were analysed in correlation with, size and bleeding of CCMs. Results Size and bleeding status of CCMs did not correlate with contrast enhancement in the CCM wall. One of 3 patients with bleeding displayed contrast enhancement in black blood MRI, whereas the others had non enhancing lesions. Because of the small number of cases a statistical analysis was not performed. Conclusion In this limited cohort, inflammatory reactions in CCMs could not be detected by black blood MRI suggesting that the level of inflammation is minimal in these lesions and those different patho-mechanisms play a more important role in the rupture of CCMs.

Abstract Background There are controversies concerning the natural history of arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) in literature and it is not clear which AVMs should be treated and which should be just observed. Objective criteria beyond growth in serial MRIs or angiographies are needed. The use of black blood MRI is currently under investigation for evaluating the rupture risk of cerebral aneurysms, however its use for assessment of AVMs has yet to be evaluated. We therefore conducted a feasibility study on the application of black blood MRI (bbMRI) in AVMs to assess rupture risk. Methods Retrospective study of 10 patients with intracranial AVMs and 4 patients with arteriovenous fistulas who received a black blood MRI before treatment. Results AVM niduses (9/10) show contrast enhancement irrespective of rupture or size. All arteriovenous fistulas (4 / 4) were contrast enhancing irrespective of rupture. Conclusion High flow malformations are in a permanent stage of inflammation which does not seem to allow conclusions on their rupture risk at the current stage. BbMRI is a feasible method of identifying inflammation in AVMs and arteriovenous fistulas. However, future prospective studies are needed to evaluate whether bbMRI contrast enhancement correlates with rupture risk.

Prof. Peñalva and co-workers provided evidence that AN11127 is related by sequence and function to Sec12 [...]

Proteomics, through application of modern high-end mass spectrometric (MS) approaches, offers the advantage of in-depth analysis of cancer tissues regarding their protein composition. Pediatric brain tumor malignancies are scarcely approached by modern holistic technologies (e.g. genomics, proteomics) due to rarity of samples and most importantly difficulty in their collection. Ependymoma, is the third most common tumor in children and is thought to arise from ependymal cells in the wall of the cerebral ventricles or the spinal canal. Due to the heterogeneity of the disease its biological characteristics remain largely unknown and prognostic factors are basically based on clinical and histological criteria. Through application of a modified nanoLC-MS/MS analysis experimental approach we achieved, for the first time, the in-depth examination of the pediatric ependymoma tissue proteome. In the present article we report on the construction of a high-confidence database; the Pediatric Ependymoma Protein Database (PEPD), including 4,157 protein groups originating from the identification and analysis of more than 15,000 peptides. The PEPD offers a first step towards targeted protein validation of the protein content of this specific devastating disease affecting the young population. Keywords: Pediatric brain tumors, Ependymoma, Ependymoma protein database

Osteoarthritis belongs to the most common joint diseases in humans and animals and shows increased incidence in older patients. The bioactivities of collagen hydrolysates, sulfated glucosamine and a special fatty acid enriched dog-food were tested in a dog patient study of 52 dogs as potential therapeutic treatment options in early osteoarthritis. Biophysical, biochemical, cell biological and molecular modeling methods support that these well-defined substances may act as effective nutraceuticals. Importantly, the applied collagen hydrolysates as well as sulfated glucosamine residues from marine organisms were strongly supported by both an animal model and molecular modeling of intermolecular interactions. Molecular modeling of predicted interaction dynamics was evaluated for the receptor proteins MMP-3 and ADAMTS-5. These proteins play a prominent role in the maintenance of cartilage health as well as innate and adapted immunity. Nutraceutical data were generated in a veterinary clinical study focusing on mobility and agility. Specifically, key clinical parameter (MMP-3 and TIMP-1) were obtained from blood probes of German shepherd dogs with early osteoarthritis symptoms fed with collagen hydrolysates. Collagen hydrolysate, a chondroprotective food supplement was examined by high resolution NMR experiments. Molecular modeling simulations were used to further characterize the interaction potency of collagen fragments and glucosamines with protein receptor structures. Potential beneficial effects of collagen hydrolysates, sulfated glycans (i.e., sulfated glucosamine from crabs and mussels) and lipids, especially, eicosapentaenoic acid (extracted from fish oil) on biochemical and physiological processes are discussed here in the context of human and veterinary medicine.

Cheese is a worldwide produced and consumed commodity. There are many varieties of cheese from soft to hard, white to yellow, and fresh to aged after ripening. Especially, each category has its own producing technology. Many countries have labeled their most traditional cheese as Protective Designation of Origin (PDO). Moreover, several studies using advanced technologies, such as proteomics, have been performed to enhance labeling. In this review, broadly diffused and marketed, as well as Mediterranean countries’ special interest in Mediterranean diet-related PDO cheeses have been chosen as a reference. The aim of this work was to highlight the use of proteomics methods to examine how cheese proteins and peptides rearrange after ripening and use of starters. Further, we aimed to examine what kind of proteins are produced. Finally, we focused on bioactive molecules in cheeses and distinction of the original product from its counterfeit.

Solute and ion transporters are proteins essential for cell nutrition, detoxification, signaling, homeostasis and drug resistance. Being polytopic transmembrane proteins, they are co-translationally inserted and folded into the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) of eukaryotic cells and subsequently sorted to their final membrane destination via vesicular secretion. During their trafficking and in response to physiological/stress signals or prolonged activity, transporters undergo multiple quality control processes and regulated turnover. Consequently, transporters interact dynamically and transiently with multiple proteins. To further dissect the trafficking and turnover mechanisms underlying transporter subcellular biology, we herein describe a novel mass spectrometry-based proteomic protocol adapted to conditions allowing for maximal identification of proteins related to N source uptake in A. nidulans. Our analysis led to identification of 5690 proteins, which to our knowledge constitutes the largest protein dataset identified by omics-based approaches in Aspergilli. Importantly, we detected possibly all major proteins involved in basic cellular functions, giving particular emphasis to factors essential for membrane cargo trafficking and turnover. Our protocol is easily reproducible and highly efficient for unearthing the full A. nidulans proteome. The protein list delivered herein will form the basis for downstream systematic approaches and identification of protein–protein interactions in living fungal cells.

Proteomics data have been obtained from experimental mastitis in ewes after intramammary challenge with Mannheimia haemolytica. Animals were sampled before and sequentially after challenge; blood plasma and milk whey samples were produced and were subjected to proteomics evaluation by means of two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry. Full protein maps and differential proteomics in sequential samples from blood plasma and milk whey of experimental ewes were presented. Post-challenge, 33 and 89 proteins were identified with differential abundance in blood plasma and milk whey, respectively. Also, 74 proteins were identified with differential abundance between the inoculated and contralateral glands. The data provide further insight in the pathogenesis of mastitis in sheep and indicate potential biomarkers for the disease. The data are further discussed in the research article “Differential quantitative proteomics study of experimental Mannheimia haemolytica mastitis in sheep” [1]. Keywords: Biomarker, Immune response, Mammary defence, Mannheimia haemolytica, Mastitis, Sheep, Subclinical mastitis

Introduction: Telomere length (TL) is causally related to aging and several age-related diseases. Specifically, the abundance of short telomeres and the rate of telomere shortening are strong determinants of cell homeostasis. Thus, tools for analyzing and manipulating TL data can vastly improve research focused on aging. Aim: In this study, we developed a semi-automated worksheet, BIOTEL, to generate individual and group TL statistics and provide a crude estimation of biological age.Results: Data from the Telomere Length Database Project (TLDP) were implemented to the spreadsheet to produce TL statistics. 150 participants were included, and their age was from 21 to 82 years, and the sex distribution ratio was 52.3%: 47.7% (male: female). Initially, we analyzed the fluorescence intensities of telomeres that were measured on metaphase spread leukocytes using three-dimensional (3D) quantitative-fluorescent in situ hybridization (Q-FISH) procedures (3D DNA FISH) with a (C3TA2)3 peptide nucleic acid (PNA) probe. Raw data of fluorescence intensities, demographic data and medical records from the participants were imported into the worksheet. Basic statistical analyses of TL data were provided through BIOTEL, including TL percentiles, specialized charts for TL distribution including the percentage of critically short telomeres (< 3,000 kilobases), individual telomere profiles, and graphs of biological age vs. chronological age.Conclusion: BIOTEL ver. 2.4 is a functional semi-automated worksheet that calculates a wide range of TL statistics, thus a useful tool with applications in research of telomeres and biological age estimation.

Novel aluminium matrix composites reinforced by MoTaNbVW refractory high-entropy alloy (HEA) particulates have been fabricated by powder metallurgy. The microstructure of the produced composites has been studied and the corrosion behaviour assessed in 3.5% NaCl solution. The composites exhibited low porosity, good homogeneity, few defects, and good distribution of the reinforcing phase in the Al matrix. No secondary intermetallic phases have been formed while the interface between matrix/reinforcement showed good bonding with no signs of reactivity. Increasing the volume of the reinforcing phase leads to increased hardness values. Al-HEA composites exhibited susceptibility to localised forms of corrosion in 3.5% NaCl solution. The microstructure has been analysed and corrosion mechanisms have been formulated.

Due to its rarity and unique biological traits, as well as its growing financial value, milk of dairy Greek small ruminants is continuously attracting interest from both the scientific community and industry. For the construction of the present dataset, cutting-edge proteomics methodologies were employed, in order to investigate and characterize, for the first time, the milk whey proteome from the two indigenous Greek goat breeds, Capra prisca and Skopelos. In total 822 protein groups were identified in milk whey of the two breeds, The present data are further discussed in the research article “Milk of Greek sheep and goat breeds; characterization by means of proteomics” [1]. Keywords: Foodomics, milk whey, Capra prisca breed, Skopelos Breed, LC-MS/MS, Greek goat

The importance and unique biological traits, as well as the growing financial value, of milk from small Greek ruminants is continuously attracting interest from both the scientific community and industry. In this regard the construction of a reference dataset of the milk of the Greek sheep breeds is of great interest. In order to obtain such a dataset we employed cutting-edge proteomics methodologies to investigate and characterize, the proteome of milk from the three indigenous Greek sheep breeds Mpoutsko, Karagouniko and Chios. In total, more than 1300 protein groups were identified in milk whey from these breeds, reporting for the first time the most detailed proteome dataset of this precious biological material. The present results are further discussed in the research paper “Milk of Greek sheep and goat breeds; characterization by means of proteomics” (Anagnostopoulos et al. 2016) [1].

Electronic navigational charts (ENCs) are geospatial databases, compiled for the operational use of Electronic Chart Display and Information systems (ECDIS) according to strict technical specifications of the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO). ECDIS is a GIS system designed for marine navigation according to the relevant standards of the International Maritime Organization (IMO). The international standards for ENCs and ECDIS, issued by the IHO and IMO, cover many aspects of the portrayal of ENCs in ECDIS but do not specify or recommend map projections. Consequently, in some cases, the unjustified employment of map projections by the manufacturers has caused certain functional drawbacks and inadequacies. This article reviews, evaluates and supplements the results of earlier studies on the selection of map projections for the depiction of ENCs in ECDIS and proposes a reasonable set of suitable projections with pertinent selection/implementation rules. These proposals took into consideration that ECDIS users (navigators) are not GIS experts or professional cartographers and consequently, the proposed election/implementation rules have to be simple and straightforward.

The increasing number of incidental intracranial aneurysms creates a dilemma of which aneurysms to treat and which to observe. Clinical scoring systems consider risk factors for aneurysm rupture however objective parameters for assessment of aneurysms stability are needed. We retrospectively analysed contrast enhancing behaviour of un-ruptured aneurysms in the black blood magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in N=71 patients with 90 aneurysms and assessed correlation between aneurysm wall contrast enhancement (AWCE) and aneurysm anatomy and clinical scoring systems. AWCE is associated with aneurysm height and height to width ratio in ICA aneurysms. AWCE is correlated to larger aneurysms in every anatomical location evaluated. However the mean size of the contrast enhancing aneurysms is significantly different between anatomical localizations indicating separate analyses for every artery. Clinical scoring systems like PHASES and UIATS correlate positively with AWCE in black blood MRI. MRI aneurysm wall contrast enhancement is a positive predictor for aneurysm instability and should be routinely assessed in follow up of incidental aneurysms. Aneurysms smaller than 7 mm with AWCE should be followed closely with focus on growth, as they may be prone to growth and rupture.

Black blood magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)is a promising imaging tool in predicting aneurysm rupture. Could it be also valuable in evaluating the treatment effect of endovascular and conservative treated aneurysms? Two patients were treated with stent and coil and one with Aspirine (ASS). Correlation of treatment response and contrast enhancement of the aneurysm wall is examined. In the first case stenting failed to treat the aneurysm and contrast enhancement in the wall did never subside during follow up black blood MRI. In the second case the aneurysm responded well to stenting and decreased in size, which was correlating significantly with attenuation of contrast enhancement in black blood MRI. In the third case the aneurysm responded to ASS treatment by decreasing in size as shown in follow up MR-angiography and the contrast enhancement in its wall decreased after 8 months of therapy. Black blood MRI seems to be a promising tool not only in predicting aneurysms at risk of rupture, but also in observing treatment responses after endovascular procedures or even Aspirine administration. When contrast enhancement decreases, aneurysm treatment seems to be successful as can be shown in decreasing size in the follow up angiography.