Vissarion Efthymiou

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This study looked at how using electronic media like phones, computers, and video games might be linked to attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms in Greek teenagers. They found that a significant number of teens showed signs of potential internet addiction, and about 19% of participants could be at risk for behavioral issues related to ADHD. It’s important because as teens spend more time on electronic media, addressing these issues could help improve their mental health and behavior. Who this helps: This benefits adolescents and their parents by highlighting the importance of monitoring electronic media use.

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This study looked at stress levels among Greek university students during the COVID-19 lockdown. Out of 610 students surveyed, 51.3% reported moderate stress, and 24.3% reported severe stress, with factors like pressure and life changes contributing to their difficulties. The findings show that high stress negatively impacts students' well-being, underscoring the need for better mental health support at universities. Who this helps: This helps university students seeking to manage stress and improve their mental health.

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This study looked at how and when children in Greece reported instances of sexual abuse. Researchers found that out of 89 cases, most victims were girls aged about 10, and the average time before a child reported the abuse was nearly 80 days, with only about a quarter reporting it within a week. Delayed reporting made it harder to gather evidence, which is crucial for justice, so improving care and support for these children is vital. Who this helps: This helps children who are victims of abuse and the professionals supporting them.

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Researchers examined a blood test that detects tumor DNA in patients with a specific type of head and neck cancer that doesn't involve HPV. They found that when the test showed positive results after treatment, it indicated a higher chance of cancer recurrence and lower survival rates. This finding is important because it suggests that this blood test could help doctors identify patients at greater risk after treatment, potentially leading to more tailored monitoring and care.

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Researchers studied a blood test that detects tiny amounts of tumor DNA in patients with a specific type of throat cancer that is not linked to HPV. They found that when this DNA was present, patients were more likely to experience a recurrence of their cancer and had a shorter survival time. This finding is important because it suggests that this blood test could help doctors predict outcomes and make better treatment decisions for patients with this type of cancer.

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Researchers developed a blood test that detects HPV cancer DNA years before oropharyngeal cancer (a common throat cancer) develops, finding the virus DNA in 79% of patient blood samples taken up to 7.8 years before diagnosis, while showing no false positives in healthy people. Using advanced computer analysis, they improved the test to detect the cancer signal in 96% of cases up to 10 years before symptoms appear. This discovery could enable doctors to catch this aggressive cancer much earlier, when treatment is more likely to succeed and causes less harm.

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This study looked at how activating a specific receptor in fat cells, called the GIP receptor, affects weight loss in mice. The researchers found that when they turned on this receptor in fat cells, the mice experienced about a 35% reduction in weight and showed increased energy use and fat burning. This is important because it suggests a new way to help combat obesity and related health problems like diabetes by targeting fat cells directly. Who this helps: This benefits patients struggling with obesity and type 2 diabetes.

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This study looked at how type 2 diabetes affects DNA changes in sperm and overall sperm quality in men. Researchers found that men with type 2 diabetes had 655 areas in their sperm DNA that were different from men without diabetes, with 96.5% of those showing higher DNA methylation levels. This matters because these changes in the sperm DNA could influence the health of future children and highlight the need for further research into how controlling blood sugar may impact these effects. Who this helps: This helps men with type 2 diabetes and their potential offspring.

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This study focused on mapping the different types of cells found in human and mouse fat tissue at a detailed level. The researchers provided new guidelines and a clear framework for identifying and categorizing these cells, which is important for understanding how fat tissue works in the body. This information is essential because it can aid in the development of treatments for obesity, diabetes, and other metabolic conditions. Who this helps: Patients dealing with obesity and metabolic disorders.

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This study focused on the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), which measures how much support teenagers feel they receive from their family, friends, and others. Researchers tested a Greek version of this scale with 999 secondary school students, finding it to be a reliable tool with a high score for consistency (0.932). This is important because understanding how supported young people feel can help prevent social and health issues, especially during the challenging teenage years. Who this helps: This helps adolescents who need better support, as well as the professionals working with them.

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This study looked at how well a new mental health service designed for people with borderline personality disorder (BPD) works compared to standard care. Researchers examined 212 BPD patients who received either the new specialized service or usual care, finding that those in the specialized program experienced better improvement in their symptoms and quality of life. This matters because it shows that tailored, comprehensive care can lead to better outcomes and might save money on healthcare costs. Who this helps: Patients with borderline personality disorder and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at levels of a protein called irisin in children and teens who survived cancer, comparing them to healthy kids. Researchers found that cancer survivors had significantly lower irisin levels (about 6.5 ng/mL) compared to healthy controls (about 11.7 ng/mL). This matters because low irisin may be linked to health issues related to metabolism, bones, and hormones in these young survivors. Who this helps: This research helps childhood cancer survivors and their doctors understand potential health risks and monitor their recovery.

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This study looked at a natural remedy from Palau called Phaleria nisidai, which is traditionally used to help manage high blood sugar in type 2 diabetes. Researchers found that an active compound in Phaleria nisidai, known as genkwanin, significantly helps improve sugar absorption in fat cells, which is important for better insulin sensitivity. In fact, the effects of genkwanin were similar to those of a common diabetes medication called metformin. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with type 2 diabetes seeking natural treatment options.

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This study looked at how a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet, known as the ketogenic diet, causes liver fat accumulation and insulin resistance, which are issues related to obesity and type 2 diabetes. Researchers found that removing a specific protein called gp130 from fat cells reduced fat buildup in the liver by 68% and improved insulin sensitivity, unlike removing it from liver cells, which had no effect. This matters because it reveals a potential target for new treatments to prevent liver diseases linked to obesity and diabetes. Who this helps: This helps patients with obesity and type 2 diabetes who are at risk for liver disease.

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This study looked at different types of fat cells in human bodies to understand how they affect health. Researchers identified 26 different groups of fat cells, including two main types: one that matures properly and one that does not. The "bad" fat cells were found to be more common in people with a higher body weight, and they can lead to inflammation and other health issues. Who this helps: This research benefits doctors and patients by improving understanding of how fat cells relate to metabolic diseases.

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This study looked at the lengths of telomeres, which are protective caps on the ends of chromosomes, and how they relate to the severity of COVID-19 in patients aged 30-75. The researchers found that patients with severe COVID-19 had much shorter telomeres compared to those with non-severe COVID-19 and healthy controls; specifically, this difference was statistically significant (p < 0.001). This matters because it suggests that shorter telomeres could be an indicator of more severe illness, pointing to a potential area for further research in understanding how to predict and treat COVID-19. Who this helps: This helps researchers and doctors who are looking for ways to assess and manage COVID-19 risk in patients.

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This research paper reviews how effective corticosteroids are when added to standard treatments for children with pneumonia, specifically community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). The study analyzed data from 22 different articles involving over 75,000 children and found that those who received corticosteroids had a shorter hospital stay and less time with fever compared to those who did not; in randomized trials, the hospital stay was reduced by about half a day on average. This matters because it suggests that corticosteroids can help children recover more quickly from pneumonia with few side effects. Who this helps: This helps children suffering from pneumonia and their doctors in deciding on treatment options.

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This study focused on testing the Greek version of a questionnaire called the Colorado Learning Difficulties Questionnaire (CLDQ), which helps identify learning challenges in children and teenagers. Researchers analyzed responses from 303 parents of kids aged 11-17 who have learning difficulties and found that the Greek version accurately measured five key areas: Reading, Mathematics, Social Cognition, Social Anxiety, and Spatial Problems. This is important because it means that educators in Greece can better identify students with learning difficulties, leading to more effective support and resources. Who this helps: This helps parents and teachers of children with learning difficulties in Greece.

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Researchers studied how well a new test called MAESTRO could detect tiny amounts of remaining cancer after surgery in patients with head and neck cancer. They found that in a group of 24 patients, those with detectable tumor DNA in their blood immediately after surgery were more likely to experience cancer recurrence or death. Specifically, 13 out of 15 patients who had an event were found to have minimal residual disease, indicating those at higher risk for poor outcomes. This matters because detecting this residual cancer early can help doctors decide on the best follow-up treatment for patients. Who this helps: Patients with head and neck cancer undergoing surgery.

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This study looked at a new way to detect leftover cancer cells after surgery in patients with head and neck cancer. It found that among 24 patients, those with detectable levels of cancer DNA in their blood shortly after surgery were more likely to experience cancer recurrence and had worse survival rates; specifically, 92.9% of patients with recurrences had detectable cancer DNA, while only 38.5% of those without recurrences showed the same. This is important because it shows that early detection of minimal residual disease can help doctors make better treatment decisions after surgery, potentially improving patient outcomes. Who this helps: This helps patients with head and neck cancer by guiding their post-surgery treatment.

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Researchers studied how changes in blood samples containing tumor DNA could help predict how well patients with advanced head and neck cancer respond to treatment and how long they might live. They found that when patients had lower levels of this tumor DNA during treatment, they were more likely to respond positively and have better survival rates. This is important because using this DNA information could help doctors make better treatment decisions, potentially improving outcomes for patients.

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Researchers studied patients with a severe type of head and neck cancer that often comes back or spreads. They found that monitoring a specific marker in the blood, known as circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), can help predict how well patients will respond to treatment and how long they might live. This is important because it offers a new way to tailor treatments to individual patients, potentially improving their chances of survival and minimizing side effects from ineffective therapies.

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Researchers developed a new blood test using advanced DNA sequencing to detect HPV-associated head and neck cancers early, before symptoms appear, and compared it to three other blood-based detection methods. The new sequencing test detected cancer 98.7% of the time it was present and correctly identified healthy people 98.7% of the time—significantly better than existing blood tests. This breakthrough matters because HPV-related head and neck cancers are becoming more common, yet doctors currently have no way to catch them early when treatment is most effective.

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This study looked at when Greek girls enter puberty, focusing on the ages they start menstruating (menarche), develop breasts (thelarche), and experience body hair growth (pubarche). Researchers analyzed records from 298 girls and found that the average age at first menstruation was 12 years, with some showing signs of puberty even earlier; 24% experienced premature breast development. Importantly, the timing of these developments is getting earlier over time, but there was no link between when girls started menstruating and their body weight. Who this helps: This information is useful for doctors and health professionals who work with young girls, as it provides insights into trends in puberty timing.

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This research looked at how well three tools assess frailty in older adults in Greece. The study involved 74 participants, aged 65 to 95, and found that the modified PRISMA-7 tool is very effective at detecting frailty, achieving an impressive 88.1% sensitivity and 99.9% specificity if one question is removed. The findings suggest that using these validated tools can improve how we identify frailty, which is important for managing the health of older people. Who this helps: This helps older patients and their healthcare providers by improving frailty assessments.

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This study looked at how a two-day training course for healthcare professionals, called the Generic Instructor Course (GIC), affected their empathy and mental resilience. After completing the course, 90 healthcare workers showed significant increases in empathy, with a notable score increase (p = 0.023), while resilience levels did not change significantly (p = 0.084). This is important because higher empathy can lead to better patient care and communication in stressful situations. Who this helps: This benefits healthcare professionals and ultimately their patients.

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This study looked at how probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria, affect blood sugar control in children and teenagers with type 1 diabetes. Out of 388 participants in five different studies, those who received probiotics had higher blood sugar levels and worse overall control compared to those who did not use probiotics. This is important because it suggests that probiotics might not be helpful for managing diabetes in young people, and more research is needed to understand their effects. Who this helps: This helps doctors and medical researchers looking for effective treatments for young patients with type 1 diabetes.

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This study looked at how the body processes serotonin in people who experience low blood sugar after eating following weight-loss surgery, specifically the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. Researchers found that, compared to people without symptoms, those with post-bariatric hypoglycemia had significantly lower levels of certain amino acids and serotonin before meals, but serotonin levels were nearly double after eating. These findings suggest that the rise in serotonin after meals may trigger low blood sugar episodes, pointing to possible new treatment strategies for this condition. Who this helps: This research benefits patients who have undergone bariatric surgery and experience post-meal low blood sugar.

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This study looked at how certain genetic variations related to heart and metabolic health might influence the severity of COVID-19. They found two rare gene variants in patients: one in those with mild symptoms and another in those severely ill, both of which could be linked to a genetic risk for severe COVID-19. Understanding these genetic factors matters because it could help identify individuals at higher risk for serious illness from COVID-19. Who this helps: Patients at risk for severe COVID-19 illness.

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This study looked at the presence of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) in patients right after surgery to see if it can predict cancer recurrence. Researchers found that in the eight studies analyzed, patients with detectable ctDNA right after surgery had a higher chance of their cancer returning, regardless of the cancer type. This is important because it suggests that checking for ctDNA soon after surgery can help doctors make better treatment decisions earlier on. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors by providing critical information for treatment planning.

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The study looked at two tests to help diagnose HPV-related throat cancer: one that checks for HPV DNA in the blood and another that looks for antibodies against HPV proteins. Out of 75 patients, 67 had HPV-associated cancer, with 79% testing positive for antibodies and 89% for HPV DNA. Combining these tests significantly improved the chances of correctly diagnosing the cancer, making it easier for doctors to identify and treat patients early. Who this helps: This benefits patients with throat cancer and their doctors by providing more accurate diagnostic options.

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Researchers developed a blood test that can detect a common cancer caused by HPV (the virus linked to cervical cancer) years before symptoms appear—up to 10 years early in some cases. The test works by finding tiny pieces of HPV DNA floating in the bloodstream, which the cancer releases long before the disease becomes noticeable. When they tested blood samples taken years before patients were actually diagnosed with cancer, the test caught 79% of future cancer cases while giving zero false alarms in healthy people. Using artificial intelligence to analyze the blood samples improved detection even further, catching 96% of cases. This matters because unlike cervical cancer, there's currently no screening test for this type of HPV-related throat cancer—the most common HPV cancer in America. A blood test that finds it a decade early could save lives by catching cancer when it's easiest to treat.

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This study looked at how common non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is among adolescent girls with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Researchers found that 22.7% of girls with PCOS had NAFLD compared to only 6.1% of girls without PCOS. The study highlights that girls with PCOS and high levels of certain hormones had more severe liver issues and showed worse insulin sensitivity, indicating a strong link between PCOS and liver problems. Who this helps: This information is important for doctors treating adolescent girls with PCOS.

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This study looked at unusual rotavirus strains in children under 16 years old who were hospitalized with severe stomach issues in Greece between 2007 and 2021. Out of over 4,400 children, 62 had rare rotavirus genotypes, with the most common being P[9] in nearly half of those cases and P[14] making a return after 8 years, mainly during the spring months. These findings indicate that some of these strains may come from animals, which could lead to new and potentially more serious rotavirus infections in humans. Who this helps: This research benefits doctors treating young patients with severe gastroenteritis by informing them about emerging rotavirus strains.

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This study examined how human fat cells (both white and brown) develop by analyzing over 20,000 cells from a single person’s neck to avoid differences between individuals. The researchers found that certain genes are important for the development of these fat cells, particularly a gene called TRPS1, which, when turned off, hinders the formation of white fat cells. Understanding these processes is crucial because it helps scientists target metabolic diseases like obesity effectively. Who this helps: This helps patients struggling with obesity and doctors treating metabolic disorders.

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This research focused on a protein called AXL that controls how fat cells function in mice. When AXL was blocked, the mice burned more energy, helping to prevent weight gain from a high-fat diet. Specifically, the changes led to an increase in energy expenditure that protected the mice from obesity. Who this helps: This benefits patients struggling with obesity and metabolic diseases.

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This study looked at how matchmaking, powered by artificial intelligence, can improve collaboration in research and education. It focused on creating platforms and algorithms that help people connect and work together more effectively, leading to better use of resources in these fields. The findings highlight the importance of these tools in fostering strong networks and innovative research practices. Who this helps: This benefits researchers, educators, and institutions looking to enhance collaboration and efficiency in their work.

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This study looked at the levels of a protein called Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) in teenagers with metabolic syndrome, comparing those with obesity to those with a normal weight. Researchers found that teenage boys and girls with obesity had significantly higher BDNF levels—specifically, the increase was over three times more in adolescents with obesity (p < 0.001) compared to their normal-weight peers, with females showing a greater increase than males (p = 0.005). Understanding these differences is important because it highlights the severe impact of obesity on brain health in adolescents, which can have long-term consequences. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors and healthcare providers working with adolescents, especially those addressing obesity and metabolic health.

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This research reviewed 34 studies to understand how the distance from cancer-free tissue, called margin distance, in surgeries for oral tongue cancer affects patients' chances of survival and recurrence of the cancer. The findings showed that a margin of 5 millimeters or more generally leads to better outcomes, but margins of 4 mm, 3.3 mm, and even 10 mm can still provide good results, although these were less common in the research. This information is important because it helps guide surgical practices and may improve the quality of care for patients with oral tongue cancer. Who this helps: Patients with oral tongue cancer and their doctors.

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This study looked at how circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) levels right after surgery can indicate the risk of cancer coming back. Researchers found that in patients with six types of cancer, those who tested positive for ctDNA within three days post-surgery were at a higher risk of recurrence. This matters because it shows that checking ctDNA soon after surgery can help guide future treatment decisions. Who this helps: Patients recovering from cancer surgery.

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Researchers tracked blood tests that measure HPV DNA in two throat cancer patients to monitor their disease during and after treatment. Both patients unexpectedly developed a second separate HPV-related cancer while being treated for their first one, which made the blood test results confusing because the test couldn't tell which cancer the detected DNA was coming from. This matters because as doctors increasingly use this blood test to catch cancer recurrence early, they need to know that rising levels don't always mean the original cancer is coming back—a patient might have developed a completely new cancer instead, which requires different treatment decisions.

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This study looked at how certain proteins affect glucose metabolism in the body and found that blocking a specific protein (Brd4) led to higher blood sugar levels and problems with how the body handles glucose. Specifically, mice treated with a drug called JQ-1 showed hyperglycemia and reduced insulin secretion, but when a related factor (FGF19) was introduced, the negative effects were reversed, bringing blood sugar levels back to normal. This is important because it reveals a new pathway for understanding how our intestines and liver interact regarding metabolism, which could lead to new treatments for blood sugar control. Who this helps: This helps patients with diabetes and health professionals managing glucose levels.

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This research looked at the makeup of fat tissues in both humans and mice at a very detailed level, focusing on individual cells. The study found many different types of cells in fat tissues, revealing new insights about how fat functions in relation to obesity, age, and health issues like insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Understanding these differences is important because it could lead to better treatments for metabolic diseases. Who this helps: This helps patients struggling with obesity and related health conditions, as well as doctors treating them.

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This study looked at how well the COVID-19 BNT162b2 vaccine works in adolescents and young adults with cystic fibrosis compared to healthy individuals. Researchers found that the cystic fibrosis patients generated higher antibody levels after vaccination, with a median total antibody level of 3,396 U/ml, compared to 1,452 U/ml in healthy controls. Additionally, they experienced fewer side effects from the vaccine. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with cystic fibrosis by demonstrating the vaccine's effectiveness and safety for them.

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The study looked at how the time of day that healthcare workers received the BNT162b2 COVID-19 vaccine affected their immune response, specifically measuring two types of antibodies. It found that workers vaccinated in the evening had higher total SARS-CoV-2 antibodies one month after the second dose. However, the time of vaccination did not influence the neutralizing antibodies, which are crucial for fighting off infections. This matters because understanding optimal vaccination timing could improve immune responses, potentially enhancing protection against COVID-19. Who this helps: This helps healthcare workers and patients receiving the COVID-19 vaccine.

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This study looked at how Greek parents feel about vaccinating their children against COVID-19. Researchers found that only 36.6% of parents were open to vaccinating their children, and just 23.9% had actually done so. Factors like being female, having a higher education, and previously getting vaccinated themselves were linked to greater acceptance of the vaccine. This shows that improving parents' positive attitudes toward vaccination is crucial for increasing children's vaccination rates. Who this helps: This helps parents and public health officials aiming to increase children's vaccination rates.

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This study looked at how to improve the survival of skin grafts taken from the ear to repair defects on the side of the nose. Researchers found that using specific surgical techniques, such as preparing the skin and using platelet-rich plasma during the procedure, can significantly increase the chances of the graft surviving. It's important because these methods can lead to better outcomes for patients needing reconstruction after skin damage. Who this helps: Patients with skin defects on the nose following surgery or injury.