Q Fever in Greece and Factors of Exposure: A Multiregional Seroprevalence Study.

INTRODUCTION: The epidemiology of Q fever, caused by Coxiella burnetii, varies significantly worldwide. This study aimed to document the prevalence of Coxiella burnetii in Greece by measuring specific IgG antibody levels in serum samples from the general population and high-risk groups, including farmers, veterinarians, and laboratory workers. METHODOLOGY: A multiregional, stratified sampling design was employed, with 1,345 participants from Thessaly and Central Macedonia. Serum samples were tested for Coxiella burnetii IgG antibodies, and multivariate analysis was conducted to identify factors associated with seroprevalence. RESULTS: Overall, 8.1% of participants tested positive for Coxiella burnetii antibodies, with the highest seroprevalence in Larissa (22.2%) and Karditsa (16.1%). High-risk occupational groups, particularly those with direct animal contact, showed a higher seroprevalence (13.6%). Multivariate analysis identified significant associations between seroprevalence and factors such as geographic region, occupation, and gender. CONCLUSION: The study reveals regional and occupational disparities in Q fever seroprevalence in Greece, particularly in rural areas. These findings underscore the need for targeted public health measures, including heightened surveillance and preventive interventions for high-risk groups.

Pioglitazone and asthma: a review of current evidence.

OBJECTIVE: This review aims to present existing evidence on the impact of pioglitazone, a thiazolidinedione class anti-diabetic drug, on asthma control and lung function, providing a comprehensive understanding of its potential as a treatment for asthma. DATA SOURCES: The review draws upon data from preclinical animal studies and clinical trials investigating the effects of pioglitazone on asthma, focusing on its role in reducing airway inflammation, hyperreactivity, and remodeling, and its impact on pulmonary function. STUDY SELECTIONS: Relevant studies were selected based on their examination of pioglitazone's therapeutic effects in asthma, including both animal models and clinical trials involving human asthma patients. RESULTS: Animal studies have suggested that pioglitazone could alleviate inflammation, airway hyperreactivity, and airway remodeling, thereby improving pulmonary function in asthma. However, clinical trials have not demonstrated significant therapeutic benefits, with minimal improvements observed in asthma control and lung function, and the presence of notable side effects. CONCLUSION: Despite promising preclinical data, the efficacy of pioglitazone in treating human asthma remains unproven, with safety concerns and limited clinical benefits observed in trials. Further research is needed to assess the safety and effectiveness of pioglitazone in asthma treatment and to explore its impact on other inflammatory mechanisms.

Psychopathology in asthma patients: analysis of demographic and clinical associations.

BACKGROUND: Asthma, a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the airways, significantly impacts both respiratory function and quality of life. Recent studies have highlighted the psychological dimensions of chronic diseases like asthma. Despite growing evidence linking asthma with various psychopathological conditions, comprehensive data remains scarce. AIM: This study aims to explore the psychopathological status of asthma patients and identify demographic and clinical factors associated with higher levels of psychopathological symptoms. METHODS: Data were collected from 42 asthma patients attending the Asthma Outpatient Clinic at the University of Thessaly, Greece. Participants completed a detailed questionnaire on demographics and clinical parameters, along with the Symptoms Checklist-90 (SCL-90) to assess psychological symptoms. RESULTS: The sample included patients with varying asthma severity: 38% with severe asthma and 62% with mild-moderate asthma, with a mean age of 60.8 ± 15.6 years. Results indicated that 23.8% exhibited somatization symptoms, 23.8% showed compulsive behaviors, 33.8% reported interpersonal sensitivity, and 38.1% experienced depression and 38.1% aggressiveness. Additionally, 45.2% struggled with fearful anxiety, 4.8% showed paranoid ideation, and 11.9% had traits of psychoticism. Women had significantly higher psychopathology scores than men. Factors such as longer disease duration, uncontrolled asthma, severe asthma, and comorbid conditions like atopy and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) were linked to higher psychopathological scores. CONCLUSIONS: The study found a high prevalence of psychopathological symptoms among asthma patients. Female gender, prolonged asthma duration, persistent symptoms, comorbid diseases (GERD, atopy) and greater disease severity were significantly associated with higher psychopathology, underscoring the need for integrated mental health care in asthma management.

Leptospirosis Incidence Post-Flooding Following Storm Daniel: The First Case Series in Greece.

The present study investigates the public health impact of flooding on leptospirosis incidence after Storm Daniel in Thessaly, Greece, in September 2023. A notable increase in cases was observed, with seven cases of female patients and a mean age of 40.2 years, indicating a significant risk among working-age adults. From the end of September to the beginning of November 2023, a total of 35 patients from flood-prone areas presented to the Emergency Department of the Tertiary University Hospital of Larissa. Diagnosis of leptospirosis was established by meeting the criteria suggested by the national public health organisation (EODY)-compatible clinical course, epidemiological exposure, molecular and serologic confirmation by the detection of immunoglobulin M antibodies to leptospira spp. using a commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and real-time quantitative PCR for the molecular detection of leptospira. The larger part (84.6%) of leptospirosis cases were associated with contact with floodwater. The majority of these patients (71.4%) were from the prefecture of Larissa, followed by 14.3% from the prefecture of Karditsa, 8.6% from the prefecture of Trikala, and 5.7% from the prefecture of Magnesia. Occupational exposure and urbanisation were key risk factors. The most prevalent clinical feature was rash (69.2%), followed by fever (61.5%) and myalgia (30.7%). The findings emphasise the need for robust public health strategies, improved sanitation, rodent control, and protective measures for sanitation workers. The data highlight the broader implications of climate change on public health and the necessity for ongoing surveillance and community education to mitigate future outbreaks.

Detection and Characterization of Extracellular Vesicles in Sputum Samples of COPD Patients.

BACKGROUND: Only one study has reported the presence of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in COPD patients' sputum. Thus, we aimed to isolate and characterize EVs from COPD and healthy individuals' sputum. METHODS: A total of 20 spontaneous sputum samples from COPD patients (m/f: 19/1) and induced sputum samples from healthy controls (m/f: 8/2) were used for EV isolation. The sputum supernatants were resuspended in PBS, precleared by centrifugation at 800× g for 10 min at 4 °C, and passed through a 0.22 µm filter (Millipore, Burlington, MA, USA). EVs were isolated by a standard membrane affinity spin column method (exoEasy maxi kit, Qiagen, Hilden, Germany). The EVs were then characterized by assessing their morphology and size using Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and determining the CD9 and CD81 EV-markers with Western blot analysis. RESULTS: The EVs had a spherical shape and their mean diameter in the COPD patients was significantly greater than in the controls. Enrichment of the EV markers, CD9 and CD81, were detected in both the healthy and COPD individuals. Total EV-associated protein was significantly increased in the COPD patients compared to the controls. ROC analysis showed that total EV-associated protein in the sputum could be used to differentiate between the controls and COPD patients, with a sensitivity of 80% and a specificity of 70% at a cut-off point of 55.59 µg/mL (AUC = 0.8150). CONCLUSIONS: EVs were detectable in both the COPD and healthy individuals' sputum. The ratio of EVs in the 150-200 nm range was twice as high in the COPD patients than in the controls. The COPD patients' sputum contained increased total EV-associated protein as compared to controls, highlighting their value as a new source of specific exoproteins.

Proportions and Seasonal Patterns of Respiratory Viruses via Rapid Tests in Adults at a Greek Hospital (Oct. 2023-Mar. 2024).

BACKGROUND: Respiratory infections pose a major public health threat. The predominant viruses causing viral respiratory infections are influenza A and B (Flu-A, Flu-B), coronaviruses, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and adenovirus. This study aims to investigate the proportion of these cases via rapid antigen tests and assess seasonal patterns. METHODS: Clinical samples were collected from symptomatic adults presenting to the Emergency and Respiratory Medicine Departments of the University Hospital of Larissa (UHL), Greece from 16 October 2023 to 31 March 2024. Nasal specimens were antigen-tested for Flu-A/B, SARS-CoV-2, RSV, and adenovirus. RESULTS: The total sample of specimens collected was 1434, of which 739 (51.5%) were female and 695 were male (48.5%). The mean age of participants was 57 ± 5.5 years. Among the positive results, we recorded a proportion of 40.18% and 11.40% for influenza A and B, respectively, followed by 35.79% for SARS-CoV-2, 10.70% for RSV, and 1.93% for adenovirus. CONCLUSIONS: In Greece, surveillance systems in infection control are underutilized. Rapid tests via multiple antigens can quickly identify viral infections, making them a valuable tool with financial benefits for health systems. Early detection of respiratory infections helps allocate resources efficiently, ensures adequate staff and facilities are available, and improves patient care through refined clinical management.

Assessing the Impact of Spatial and Temporal Variability in Fine Particulate Matter Pollution on Respiratory Health Outcomes in Asthma and COPD Patients.

Ambient air pollution's health impacts are well documented, yet the domestic environment remains underexplored. We aimed to compare indoor versus outdoor (I/O) air quality and estimate the association between indoor/ambient fine particulate matter (PM2.5) exposure and lung function in asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients. The study involved 24 h monitoring of PM2.5 levels indoors and outdoors, daily peak expiratory flow (PEF), and biweekly symptoms collection from five patients with asthma and COPD (average age of 50 years, 40% male) over a whole year. Data analysis was performed with linear mixed effect models for PEF and generalized estimating equations (GEE) for exacerbations. More than 5 million PM2.5 exposure and meteorological data were collected, demonstrating significant I/O PM2.5 ratio variability with an average ratio of 2.20 (±2.10). Identified indoor PM2.5 sources included tobacco use, open fireplaces, and cooking, resulting in average indoor PM2.5 concentrations of 63.89 µg/m3 (±68.41), significantly exceeding revised World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. Analysis indicated a correlation between ambient PM2.5 levels and decreased PEF over 0-to-3-day lag, with autumn indoor exposure significantly impacting PEF and wheezing. The study underscores the need to incorporate domestic air quality into public health research and policy-making. A personalized approach is required depending on the living conditions, taking into account the exposure to particulate pollution.

Assessment of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Vaccination Practices Regarding the New RSV Vaccine among Health Professionals in Greece.

The introduction of a new vaccine into immunization programs represents a significant advancement in the global effort to combat vaccine-preventable diseases. Data from the World Health Organization support that immunization prevents between 2 and 3 million deaths each year across various diseases, underscoring its pivotal role in global health. The present study aims to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and anticipated vaccination practices among health professionals in Central Greece in response to the potential introduction of new Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccination guidelines by the National Vaccines Committee. Among the 450 health professionals solicited for the study, 219 provided responses, yielding a response rate of approximately 55%. A substantial majority (70.3%) accurately identified the vaccine's current availability, and 62.1% were aware of the current recommendation for RSV vaccination in pregnant women. In response to whether health professionals support the inclusion of an RSV vaccine in the national vaccination program if it becomes commercially available and is recommended by the Greek National Immunization Program, general practitioners showed the most support, with an average score of 4.86 (95% CI, 4.69-5.00), followed by pediatricians at 4.76 (95% CI, 4.63-4.89), pulmonologists at 4.68 (95% CI, 4.36-5.00), and obstetricians at 4.33 (95% CI, 3.95-4.71). Concerning general opinions on vaccinations, a high level of agreement was noted among the majority of health professionals, excluding nurses. Pharmacists recorded the highest agreement, with a perfect score of 5 (CI, 5.00-5.00), followed closely by pediatricians at 4.99 (CI, 4.97-5.00), GPs at 4.95 (CI, 4.85-5.00), pulmonologists at 4.93 (CI, 4.83-5.00), obstetricians at 4.74 (CI, 4.42-5.00), and nurses at 3.80 (CI, 3.06-4.54). A tailored approach to education is needed to ensure that healthcare professionals can communicate more effectively about RSV risks and vaccination benefits, fostering a proactive stance towards disease prevention and patient care. In essence, our study underscores the importance of knowledge in shaping a compassionate and responsive healthcare environment, ready to meet the challenges of RSV head-on.

Short Term Exposure of Sheep Tracheal Epithelium to Cigarette Smoke Extract Reduces ENaC Current: A Pilot Study.

BACKGROUND/AIM: Cigarette smoke has been shown to induce a phenotype in humans known as "acquired cystic fibrosis". This occurs because the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) functions are impaired systemically due to the deleterious effects of smoke components. Elucidation of cigarette smoke effects on the tracheal epithelium is important. The aim of this study was to develop an ex vivo sheep tracheal model to investigate tracheal ion function. In this model, the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) is inhibited after exposure to cigarette smoke extract (CSE) as a proof of principle. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Tracheas were isolated from healthy sheep and the tracheal epithelium was surgically excised. Tissues were mounted in Ussing chambers and the short circuit current (Isc) was measured after incubation with 5% CSE in PBS or PBS alone for 30 min. The function of ENaC was investigated by the addition of amiloride (10-5M) apically. Western blot analysis was performed to assess differences in ENaC quantity after CSE exposure. Some specimens were stained with H&E for detection of histological alterations. RESULTS: The amiloride effect on normal epithelium led to a significant decrease in Isc [ΔI=33±5.92 µA/cm2; p<0.001 versus control experiments (ΔI=1.44±0.71 µA/cm2)]. After incubation with CSE, ENaC Isc was significantly reduced (ΔI=14.80±1.96 µA/cm2; p<0.001). No differences in αENaC expression were observed between CSE-exposed and normal tracheal epithelium. Histological images post CSE incubation revealed decreases in the height of the epithelium, with basal cell hyperplasia and loss of ciliated cells. CONCLUSION: Reduced ENaC inhibition by amiloride after CSE incubation could be due to alterations in the tracheal epithelium.

The Impact of Different Exercise Modes in Fitness and Cognitive Indicators: Hybrid versus Tele-Exercise in Patients with Long Post-COVID-19 Syndrome.

The purpose of our study was to obtain evidence that an unsupervised tele-exercise program (TEgroup) via an online platform is a feasible alternative to a hybrid mode of supervised and unsupervised exercise (HEgroup) sessions for improving fitness indexes, respiratory and cognitive functions, and biomarkers of oxidative stress in patients recovering from COVID-19. Forty-nine patients with long post-COVID-19 were randomly divided into two groups (HEgroup: n = 24, age 60.0 ± 9.5 years versus TEgroup: n = 25, age 58.7 ± 9.5 years). For each patient, we collected data from body composition, oxidative stress, pulmonary function, physical fitness, and cognitive function before and after the 12-week exercise rehabilitation program (ERP). Our data showed differences in both groups before and after 12-week ERP on fitness indicators, body composition, and pulmonary function indicators. Our findings demonstrated differences between groups after 12-week ERP on adjustment in the domains of cognitive function (HEgroup increased the "visuospatial" domain: 3.2 ± 1.1 versus 3.5 ± 0.8 score, p = 0.008 and TEgroup increased the "memory" domain: 3.3 ± 1.0 versus 3.8 ± 0.5 score, p = 0.003; after 12-week ERP showed differences between groups in domain "attention" TEgroup: 4.8 ± 1.5 versus HEgroup: 3.6 ± 1.8 score, p = 0.014) and the diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (HEgroup increased the percent of predicted values at 0.5 ± 32.3% and TEgroup at 26.0 ± 33.1%, p < 0.001). These findings may be attributed to the different ways of learning exercise programs, resulting in the recruitment of different neural circuits.

Sleep Quality in Greek Adolescent Swimmers.

The aim of our study was to investigate the relationship between sleep quality and functional indices, swimming distance and gender in adolescent competitive swimmers. Forty-eight adolescent swimmers (boys, n = 22, 15.7 ± 1.0 years and girls, n = 26, 15.1 ± 0.8 years) were included in our study. They were assessed for handgrip strength, respiratory muscle strength and pulmonary function, answered a Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index questionnaire (PSQI), and recorded their anthropometric and morphological characteristics and training load for the last four weeks. The results showed differences between swimming distance and chest circumference difference, between maximal inhalation and exhalation (Δchest) (p = 0.033), PSQI score (p < 0.001), and sleep quality domains for "cannot breathe comfortably" (p = 0.037) and "have pain" (p = 0.003). Binary logistic regression (chi-square = 37.457, p = 0.001) showed that the variables Δchest (p = 0.038, 95% CI: 1.05-6.07) and PSQI score (p = 0.048, 95% CI: 0.1-1.07) remained independent predictors of the swim distance groups. Girls had a lower percentage of predicted values for the maximal inspiratory pressure (p < 0.001), maximal expiratory pressure (p = 0.027), forced expiratory volume within the first second (p = 0.026), forced vital capacity (p = 0.008) and sleep quality domains for "cough or snore loudly" (p = 0.032) compared to boys. A regression analysis showed that the sleep quality score was explained by the six independent variables: respiratory muscle strength (t = 2.177, ß = 0.164, p = 0.035), Δchest (t = -2.353, ß = -0.17, p = 0.023), distance (t = -5.962, ß = -0.475, p < 0.001), total body water (t = -7.466, ß = -0.687, p < 0.001), lean body mass (t = -3.120, ß = -0.434, p = 0.003), and handgrip (t = 7.752, ß = 1.136, p < 0.001). Our findings demonstrate that sleep quality in adolescent swimmers is a multifactorial result of morphometric characteristics, strength and respiratory function.

Natural antibodies targeting LPS in pleural effusions of various etiologies.

Respiratory infection, cancer, and heart failure can cause abnormal accumulation of fluid in the pleural cavity. The immune responses within the cavity are orchestrated by leucocytes that reside in the serosal-associated lymphoid tissue. Natural antibodies (NAbs) are abundant in the serum (S) having a major role in systemic and mucosal immunity; however, their occurrence in pleural fluid (PF) remains an open question. Our aim herein was to detect and measure the levels of NAbs (IgM, IgG, IgA) targeting lipopolysaccharides (LPS) in both the pleural fluid and the serum of 78 patients with pleural effusions (PEs) of various etiologies. The values of anti-LPS NAb activity were extracted through a normalization step regarding the total IgM, IgG, and IgA levels, all determined by in-house ELISA. In addition, the ratios of PF/S values were analyzed further with other critical biochemical parameters from pleural fluids. Anti-LPS NAbs of all Ig classes were detected in most of the samples, while a significant increase of anti-LPS activity was observed in infectious and noninfectious compared with malignant PEs. Multivariate linear regression confirmed a negative correlation of IgM and IgA anti-LPS PF/S ratio with malignancy. Moreover, anti-LPS NAbs PF/S measurements led to increased positive and negative predictive power in ROC curves generated for the discrimination between benign and malignant PEs. Our results highlight the role of anti-LPS NAbs in the pleural cavity and demonstrate the potential translational impact that should be further explored.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Here we describe the detection and quantification of natural antibodies (NAbs) in the human pleural cavity. We show for the first time that IgM, IgG, and IgA anti-LPS natural antibodies are detected and measured in pleural effusions of infectious, noninfectious, and malignant etiologies and provide clinical correlates to demonstrate the translational impact of our findings.

Asbestos ban policies and mesothelioma mortality in Greece.

BACKGROUND: Malignant mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that mostly affects the pleura and has a strong link to asbestos exposure. Greece banned the use of asbestos in 2005, however, the public was already aware of this substance in the 1980s. This research aims to present an overview of Greece's mesothelioma age-standardized mortality rates (ASMR) from 1983 to 2019 by age, gender, and geographic region and to determine whether the actions to ban asbestos impacted these rates. METHODS: Data were retrieved by the Hellenic Statistical Authority (HSA) from death certificates that mentioned mesothelioma as the cause of death from 1983 to 2019 with details on the residence, gender, and age. Statistical analysis was performed using PRISM 6.0 software, a two-way ANOVA test, Trend analysis was conducted using Joinpoint Regression Program 5.0 software. The linear and non-linear model was used to calculate the age-standardized rates of annual percentage change (APC) and its 95% confidential interval (95% CI). RESULTS: From 1983 to 2019, 850 total mesothelioma deaths were recorded, the majority of whom were males (634). A rate of 74.6% accounts for males and 25.4% for females, and the ratio of Males: Females was 3:1. Males' ASMR and the whole population's ASMR reached their highest levels in 2011 (0.93/100000person-years and 0.53/100000person-years, respectively). To look for potential changes between the first two decades of the 21st century, we compared the mean ASMR of each geographic region in Greece between two different 10-year subperiods (2000-2009 and 2010-2019). Except for Epirus, all regions of Greece had elevated regional ASMRs, particularly in those with the highest asbestos deposits. Notably, the ASMR in Epirus decreased from 0.54/100000person-years (2000-2009) to 0.31/100000person-years (2010-2019). After 2011, the ASMR for men and the general population stabilized. This stability is important since mesothelioma in men is associated with occupational asbestos exposure. The intriguing discovery of a lower ASMR in Epirus emphasizes the need to raise awareness of the condition and implement effective public health measures. CONCLUSIONS: In Greece, the annual ASMR for males and the whole population reached its highest level in 2011, which is positive and encouraging and may be a sign that the rate will stabilize during the following years. Moreover, this study showed that the actions made in the 1980s regarding public awareness and surveillance directly impacted the decrease in Epirus rates. Future research, continual awareness, information, and recording are needed to monitor the mesothelioma epidemic. The possible benefit of a mesothelioma registry and the epidemiological surveillance of asbestos-related diseases, particularly mesothelioma mortality, need to be addressed. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Not applicable.

Investigation of Health-Related Quality of Life, Anxiety and Satisfaction in Patients with Pulmonary Embolism.

BACKGROUND: Features of post-traumatic stress disorder and anxiety may be present in pulmonary embolism (PE) patients, along with impaired quality of life (QoL). We aim to evaluate health-related QoL, anxiety and satisfaction with life in patients with PE. METHODS: Patients with PE were enrolled during their follow-up. All participants completed the Short Form 36 (SF-36) questionnaire, the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) X1 and X2 forms, and the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS). RESULTS: 92 PE patients were included (mean age ± SD = 62.50 ± 15.33 years, 56.5% males). The median values of the SF-36 subscales were below the corresponding values of the Greek general population (besides the mental health (MH) subscale). Mean STAIX1 levels were 37.05 ± 11.17 and mean STAIX2 levels were 39.80 ± 10.47. Mean SWLS levels were 23.31 ± 6.58. According to multiple linear regression analysis, the MH and general health subscales were predictive of SWLS levels (F (10.76) = 10.576, p < 0.001, R2 = 0.581). The MH score (ß = -0.242, p < 0.01) and STAIX1 level (ß = 0.312, p < 0.001) (F (9.77) = 26.445, p < 0.001, R2 = 0.756) were predictive of STAIX2. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with PE exhibit slight satisfaction with life, borderline anxiety and impaired HRQoL.

Diphtheria and Tetanus Immunity Status among Greek Adults: Results from a Nationwide Seroprevalence Study.

Diphtheria and tetanus could lead to serious morbidity. We aimed to evaluate immunity levels by measuring specific IgG antibodies for diphtheria and tetanus in serum samples from a nationally expanded sample of the Greek population. A geographically stratified sampling approach based on regional units (NUTS level 2) was applied by considering variables such as age group (30-80+) and sex. In total, 1201 persons (47.7% males and 52.3% females) participated in the survey. Bivariate analysis revealed a negative relationship between diphtheria and tetanus median antibody titers and age. The overall seropositivity rate for diphtheria IgG antibodies (≥0.10 IU/mL) was estimated at 31.5%. Regarding tetanus, the total seropositivity rate was estimated at 59.5% (tetanus IgG antibodies ≥0.10 IU/mL). Logistic regression analysis indicated that age groups <40 years and 40-59 years were independently associated with tetanus seropositivity. Logistic regression also revealed that male sex and being aged 60-69 years were independent risk factors for diphtheria-related seropositivity. Lastly, being resident of some regions was an independent risk factor for both diphtheria- and tetanus-related seropositivity. The present study shows that Greek adults are still not completely immune to diphtheria and tetanus. It is likely possible to achieve optimal immunization coverage by implementing serviceable public health initiatives after comprehending real community needs.

Investigation of admission serum creatinine as a predictor of hospital length of stay in triple-vaccinated COVID-19 inpatients.

BACKGROUND: This study assessed the association between admission kidney function and the duration of hospitalization in triple-vaccinated coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) inpatients during the omicron surge in Larissa, central Greece. METHODS: Regression analysis was used to estimate the effect of kidney function biomarkers on hospital length of stay (LoS) within a dataset from a cohort of 51 subjects. RESULTS: Sex- and age-adjusted admission serum creatinine was associated with hospital LoS (p=0.034). CONCLUSIONS: Serum creatinine concentration on admission should be further evaluated as a possible clinical predictor of hospital LoS among triple-vaccinated COVID-19 inpatients both at the country and global level.

2-Deoxy-glucose ameliorates the peritoneal mesothelial and endothelial barrier function perturbation occurring due to Peritoneal Dialysis fluids exposure.

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) and prolonged exposure to PD fluids (PDF) induce peritoneal membrane (PM) fibrosis and hypervascularity, leading to functional PM degeneration. 2-deoxy-glucose (2-DG) has shown potential as PM antifibrotic by inhibiting hyper-glycolysis induced mesothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (MMT). We investigated whether administration of 2-DG with several PDF affects the permeability of mesothelial and endothelial barrier of the PM. The antifibrotic effect of 2-DG was confirmed by the gel contraction assay with embedded mesothelial (MeT-5A) or endothelial (EA.hy926) cells cultured in Dianeal® 2.5 % (CPDF), BicaVera® 2.3 % (BPDF), Balance® 2.3 % (LPDF) with/without 2-DG addition (0.2 mM), and qPCR for αSMA, CDH2 genes. Moreover, 2-DG effect was tested on the permeability of monolayers of mesothelial and endothelial cells by monitoring the transmembrane resistance (RTM), FITC-dextran (10, 70 kDa) diffusion and mRNA expression levels of CLDN-1 to -5, ZO1, SGLT1, and SGLT2 genes. Contractility of MeT-5A cells in CPDF/2-DG was decreased, accompanied by αSMA (0.17 ± 0.03) and CDH2 (2.92 ± 0.29) gene expression fold changes. Changes in αSMA, CDH2 were found in EA.hy926 cells, though αSMA also decreased under LPDF/2-DG incubation (0.42 ± 0.02). Overall, 2-DG mitigated the PDF-induced alterations in mesothelial and endothelial barrier function as shown by RTM, dextran transport and expression levels of the CLDN-1 to -5, ZO1, and SGLT2. Thus, supplementation of PDF with 2-DG not only reduces MMT but also improves functional permeability characteristics of the PM mesothelial and endothelial barrier.

Physical Health-Related Quality of Life in Relation to Mediterranean Diet Adherence in a Sample of Greek Asthma Patients: A Pilot Study.

The role of nutrition in the management of asthma in obese patients is of increasing interest due to their limited response to inhaled corticosteroids. Some studies note that through diet and lifestyle, there can be an improvement in asthma control. The aim of the present study was to investigate the adherence to the Mediterranean Diet and its association with asthma severity and quality of life in patients with bronchial asthma. This is a cross-sectional study of 85 patients (70.6% female), with a mean age of 57 years, from the General University Hospital of Larissa and, more specifically, patients of the outpatient asthma clinic. Data were collected with the use of specific questionnaires. In relation to BMI, 12.9% of participants were of a normal weight, 45.9% were overweight, 25.9% were obese level I, 5.9% were obese level II, and 9.4% were in the morbidly obese range. Based on the Med Diet Score (ranging from 21 to 35), most participants (85.9%) reported moderate adherence to the Mediterranean Diet. Further analysis examined the correlations of the PCS-12 score with the frequency of consumption of each of the 11 food categories, as well as all demographic and health behavior variables. The ranked correlations indicated a significant relationship between PCS-12 score and Med Diet adherence and the consumption of alcoholic beverages (r = 0.437, p < 0.05), in accordance with the Mediterranean Diet suggestions, as well as a negative relationship with BMI score (r = -0.454, p < 0.010). Moreover, significant correlations were also present between the physical quality of life and AQLQ score and work type, as well as gender, age, and marital status. The results of our study showed a high rate of obesity in patients with asthma at the General University Hospital of Larissa and moderate adherence to the Mediterranean Diet. Increased BMI and alcoholic beverage consumption in asthma patients were significant predictors of lower physical health-related quality of life. In conclusion, personal and society-level interventions are required to effectively address obesity and poor diet in patients with asthma.