Invasion History and Dispersion Dynamics of the Mediterranean Fruit Fly in the Balkan Peninsula.

The Mediterranean fruit fly (medfly), (Wiedemann 1824; Diptera, Tephritidae), is considered one of the most important pests, infesting more than 300 species of fresh fruit and vegetables worldwide. The medfly is an important invasive species, which has spread from the eastern part of sub-Saharan Africa to all of the world's continents in recent centuries. Currently, the medfly is expanding its geographical range to cooler, temperate areas of the world, including northern areas of Mediterranean countries and continental areas of Central Europe.

Current Status of Biology-Biotechnic, Agronomic, and Biological Control of : A Review.

(Olivier) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), the red palm weevil (RPW), is a concealed voracious pest of different ornamental and economically important palm species, particularly the date palm. It can cause huge losses in ornamental and commercial palm plantations. RPW has spread rapidly from its original distribution in Southeast Asia to date palm-growing countries worldwide.

Manganese(II) Complexes with Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs: Structure and Biological Activity.

Nine manganese(II) complexes with a series of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (namely sodium diclofenac, diflunisal, flufenamic acid, sodium meclofenamate, mefenamic acid, and tolfenamic acid) were prepared in the presence of diverse nitrogen donors, i.e., pyridine, 1,10-phenanthroline, 2,2'-bipyridine and neocuproine, as co-ligands and were characterized with spectroscopic techniques and single-crystal X-ray crystallography.

Beyond Calories: Individual Metabolic and Hormonal Adaptations Driving Variability in Weight Management-A State-of-the-Art Narrative Review.

The global rise in obesity underscores the need for effective weight management strategies that address individual metabolic and hormonal variability, moving beyond the simplistic "calories in, calories out" model. Body types-ectomorph, mesomorph, and endomorph-provide a framework for understanding the differences in fat storage, muscle development, and energy expenditure, as each type responds uniquely to caloric intake and exercise. Variability in weight outcomes is influenced by factors such as genetic polymorphisms and epigenetic changes in hormonal signaling pathways and metabolic processes, as well as lifestyle factors, including nutrition, exercise, sleep, and stress.

Special Issue: "Enzymes and Enzyme Inhibitors-Applications in Medicine and Diagnosis 2.0".

The first paper in this Special Issue explores the synthesis, characterization, biological, and catalytic activities of new gold(I) and silver(I) complexes that are stabilized by caffeine derivatives and used as NHC ligands [...

Beyond the "Dominant" and "Recessive" Patterns of Inheritance.

This study aimed to investigate whether genes with different modes of inheritance differ in the presence of promoter-enriched CGI loci. For each autosomal chromosome, the author searched for variations in the total number of diseases' phenotypes with autosomal dominant (AD) and recessive (AR) inheritance for a list of promoter-poor CGI (CGI-) and promoter-enriched CGI (CGI+) genes using the OMIM database. Then, the CGI- and CGI+ genes displaying random allelic or bi-allelic expression were examined.

Ticagrelor Induces Angiogenesis in Progenitor and Mature Endothelial Cells In Vitro: Investigation of the Possible Role of Adenosine.

Ticagrelor, a reversible platelet P2Y receptor antagonist, exerts various pleiotropic actions, some of which are at least partially mediated through adenosine. We studied the ticagrelor and adenosine effect on the angiogenic properties of progenitor CD34-derived endothelial colony-forming cells (ECFCs). Angiogenesis studies were performed in vitro using capillary-like tube formation and spheroid-based angiogenesis assays.

Gamified Health Promotion in Schools: The Integration of Neuropsychological Aspects and CBT-A Systematic Review.

This systematic review examines the integration of gamified health promotion strategies in school settings, with a focus on their potential to positively influence health behaviors and promote well-being among adolescents. This study explores the incorporation of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), artificial intelligence, and neuropsychological principles in gamified interventions, aiming to enhance engagement and effectiveness. A narrative synthesis of 56 studies, following PRISMA guidelines, underscores the significant impact of these gamified interventions on mental health outcomes, emphasizing reductions in anxiety, depression, and burnout while improving coping skills and lifestyle habits.

Predictive Value of Varicocele Grade and Histopathology in Simultaneous Varicocelectomy and Sperm Retrieval in Non-Obstructive Azoospermia: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

Varicocele repair in men with non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) remains a subject of debate due to inconsistent outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of microsurgical varicocelectomy on sperm recovery rates in men with NOA and to assess the role of varicocele grade and testicular histopathology in predicting postoperative outcomes. A retrospective cohort study was conducted of 78 men diagnosed with NOA and clinical varicocele who underwent microsurgical subinguinal varicocelectomy with simultaneous diagnostic and therapeutic testicular biopsy at the Department of Urology of the University of Ioannina between September 2013 and December 2021.

Prolactin Response to a Submaximal Dose of Ghrelin in Different Phases of the Normal Menstrual Cycle.

A similar secretory pattern of prolactin (PRL) and growth hormone (GH) during the menstrual cycle has been reported in response to a high dose of ghrelin in adult healthy women. The present study aimed to assess the pattern of PRL and GH secretions in response to a submaximal dose of ghrelin during different menstrual phases in adult healthy women. Eight female subjects with normal cyclicity were enrolled.

HER2-Positive Serous Endometrial Cancer Treatment: Current Clinical Practice and Future Directions.

The most common histological subtypes of endometrial cancer consist of endometrioid and uterine serous carcinoma, with the latter being more aggressive and accompanied by poor prognosis. Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) is a transmembrane tyrosine kinase receptor associated with cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival. HER2 positivity can be diagnosed in many solid tumors.

The Effectiveness of a Specific Exercise Program in Alleviating Work-Related Neck and Upper Back Pain and Improving Mood State in Various Occupational Populations-A Randomized Controlled Trial.

The COVID-19 pandemic brought significant challenges across governmental, industrial, and social systems. Additionally, numerous studies have reported a sharp increase in both mental health issues and musculoskeletal disorders worldwide. This study aimed to investigate whether a specific exercise program could alleviate neck and upper back pain symptoms and improve mood state among healthcare and office employees during the post-COVID-19 period.

Association Between Plasma ADAMTS-7 Levels and Diastolic Dysfunction in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.

A disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs-7 (ADAMTS-7) belongs to the family of metalloproteinases that contributes to tissue homeostasis during morphogenesis and reproduction. These metalloproteinases regulate various cell functions such as cell proliferation, are important regulators in tissue regeneration, and play a role in vascular remodelling, which is involved in atherosclerosis development. Despite the well-established association between ADAMTS-7 and atherosclerotic disease, data regarding the metalloproteinase's association with LV function remain scarce.

Anatomical Schemata Revealed by the Critical View of Safety Approach: A Proposal of the Hellenic Task Force on the Typology of Safe Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy (HETALCHO).

: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is the most commonly performed operation in general surgery in the Western World. Gallbladder surgery, although most of the time simple, always offers the possibility of unpleasant surprises. Despite progress, the incidence of common bile duct injury is 0.

Development and Prevention of Biofilm on Cochlear Implants: A Systematic Review.

Biofilm formation on cochlear implants (CIs) poses a major problem for surgeons, leading to a high incidence of explantation and revision surgery. Therefore, developing appropriate and cost-effective biofilm detection and prevention techniques is of the essence. In this systematic review, we sought to investigate the development of biofilm formation on CIs.

Paternal Contributions to Recurrent Pregnancy Loss: Mechanisms, Biomarkers, and Therapeutic Approaches.

: Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) affects numerous couples worldwide and has traditionally been attributed mainly to maternal factors. However, recent evidence highlights significant paternal influences on pregnancy viability and outcomes. This review aims to comprehensively examine male contributions to pregnancy loss, focusing on underlying mechanisms, novel biomarkers, and integrated strategies for improved reproductive success.

The Saphenous Vein Graft: Can a Frog Become a Princess?

The saphenous vein graft (SVG) has been a cornerstone of coronary bypass surgery, but its long-term patency is limited by accelerated atherosclerosis. Recent advancements, including the no-touch technique and the use of SVG as a limb of the left internal thoracic artery (LITA), have shown promise in improving outcomes. Both approaches enhance nitric oxide (NO) availability, a key factor in promoting endothelial stability and arterial-like behavior in the SVG.

Systematic Review of Acute Isolated Distal Radioulnar Joint Dislocation: Treatment Options.

: Acute isolated distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) dislocations are rare and often misdiagnosed during initial evaluation due to subtle clinical presentation, low index of suspicion, and imaging barriers. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are critical to avoid chronic instability, limited wrist mobility, and osteoarthritis. This systematic review evaluates the functional outcomes of conservative and surgical treatment protocols for acute isolated DRUJ dislocations.

The Role of Mirror Therapy in the Rehabilitation of the Upper Limb's Motor Deficits After Stroke: Narrative Review.

Stroke is one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide and poses a tremendous socioeconomic burden upon individuals, countries and healthcare systems. It causes debilitating symptoms and thus interferes with many aspects of the patient's life, including physical functioning, cognition, emotional status, activities of daily living, social reintegration and quality of life. Post-stroke patients frequently experience functional motor disabilities of the upper limb, which restrict autonomy and self-efficacy and cause limitations in engagement with activities and social participation, as well as difficulties in performing important occupations.

Real-World Effectiveness and Safety of Selective JAK Inhibitors in Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn's Disease: A Retrospective, Multicentre Study.

: Data on the real-world effectiveness and safety of selective JAK inhibitors (JAKis) in ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD) are limited. : We conducted a multicentre, retrospective study to assess clinical, biochemical, and endoscopic outcomes of selective JAKis in bio-experienced UC and CD. : A total of 246 patients (mean age: 40.

Navigating Heart-Lung Interactions in Mechanical Ventilation: Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Advanced Management Strategies in Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome and Beyond.

Patients in critical condition who require mechanical ventilation experience intricate interactions between their respiratory and cardiovascular systems. These complex interactions are crucial for clinicians to understand as they can significantly influence therapeutic decisions and patient outcomes. A deep understanding of heart-lung interactions is essential, particularly under the stress of mechanical ventilation, where the right ventricle plays a pivotal role and often becomes a primary concern.

Olfactory Receptors and Aortic Aneurysm: Review of Disease Pathways.

Aortic aneurysm, the pathological dilatation of the aorta at distinct locations, can be attributed to many different genetic and environmental factors. The resulting pathobiological disturbances generate a complex interplay of processes affecting cells and extracellular molecules of the tunica interna, media and externa. In short, aortic aneurysm can affect processes involving the extracellular matrix, lipid trafficking/atherosclerosis, vascular smooth muscle cells, inflammation, platelets and intraluminal thrombus formation, as well as various endothelial functions.

The Effect of Hepatic Surgical Margins of Colorectal Liver Metastases on Prognosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Colorectal cancer is the third most common malignancy, with around half of patients developing liver metastases. Hepatectomy is the preferred treatment, but its success depends on several factors, including surgical margins. Various surgical margins have been suggested to achieve optimal results.

Coronary Artery Disease and Severe Aortic Stenosis: Contemporary Treatment Options for Patients Undergoing Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation.

Approximately 50% of individuals eligible for transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) have coronary artery disease (CAD). The influence of CAD, both its prevalence and severity, on post-TAVI clinical results has yielded conflicting findings. Recent research has shown positive results for the use of computed tomography angiography and functional percutaneous evaluation of coronary lesions in the pre-TAVI assessment, besides the classic coronary angiography.

Abstracts of the 16th European Congress of Paediatric and Adolescent Gynaecology .

PAG aims to foster a collaborative environment that bridges knowledge from various disciplines to ensure the highest quality of care for children and adolescents with gynaecological issues. The European Association of PAG and HellenicPAG, like all National PAG Societies, support research and education to advance new insights, improve health outcomes, enhance quality of life, and protect future fertility. Additionally, PAG promotes international cooperation by proposing guidelines for good clinical practice in terms of prevention, diagnosis, procedures, and treatment.