bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multi-institutional prognostic modeling of survival outcomes in NSCLC patients treated with first-line immunotherapy using radiomics
Authors: Yolchuyeva Sevinj , Ebrahimpour Leyla , Tonneau Marion , Lamaze Fabien , Orain Michele , Coulombe François , Malo Julie , Belkaid Wiam , Routy Bertrand , Joubert Philippe , Manem Venkata SK.
Published: January 2024

Background

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have emerged as one of the most promising first-line therapeutics in the management of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, only a subset of these patients responds to ICIs, highlighting the clinical need to develop better predictive and prognostic biomarkers. This study will leverage pre-treatment imaging profiles to develop survival risk models for NSCLC patients treated with first-line immunotherapy.

Methods

Advanced NSCLC patients (n = 149) were retrospectively identified from two institutions who were treated with first-line ICIs. Radiomics features extracted from pretreatment imaging scans were used to build the predictive models for progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). A compendium of five feature selection methods and seven machine learning approaches were utilized to build the survival risk models. The concordance index (C-index) was used to evaluate model performance.

Results

From our results, we found several combinations of machine learning algorithms and feature selection methods to achieve similar performance. K-nearest neighbourhood (KNN) with ReliefF (RL) feature selection was the best-performing model to predict PFS (C-index = 0.61 and 0.604 in discovery and validation cohorts), while XGBoost with Mutual Information (MI) feature selection was the best-performing model for OS (C-index = 0.7 and 0.655 in discovery and validation cohorts).

Conclusion

The results of this study highlight the importance of implementing an appropriate feature selection method coupled with a machine learning strategy to develop robust survival models. With further validation of these models on external cohorts when available, this can have the potential to improve clinical decisions by systematically analyzing routine medical images.
Chorioamnionitis accelerates granule cell and oligodendrocyte maturation in the cerebellum of preterm nonhuman primates
Authors: Newman Josef , Tong Xiaoying , Tan April , Yeasky Toni , De Paiva Vanessa Nunes , Presicce Pietro , Kannan Paranthaman S. , Williams Kevin , Damianos Andreas , Tamase Newsam Marione , Benny Merline K. , Wu Shu , Young Karen C. , Miller Lisa A. , Kallapur Suhas G. , Chougnet Claire A. , Jobe Alan H. , Brambilla Roberta , Schmidt Augusto F.
Published: January 2024

Background

Preterm birth is often associated with chorioamnionitis and leads to increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism. Preterm birth can lead to cerebellar underdevelopment, but the mechanisms of disrupted cerebellar development in preterm infants are not well understood. The cerebellum is consistently affected in people with autism spectrum disorders, showing reduction of Purkinje cells, decreased cerebellar grey matter, and altered connectivity.

Methods

Preterm rhesus macaque fetuses were exposed to intra-amniotic LPS (1 mg,E. coliO55:B5) at 127 days (80%) gestation and delivered by c-section 5 days after injections. Maternal and fetal plasma were sampled for cytokine measurements. Chorio-decidua was analyzed for immune cell populations by flow cytometry. Fetal cerebellum was sampled for histology and molecular analysis by single-nuclei RNA-sequencing (snRNA-seq) on a 10× chromium platform. snRNA-seq data were analyzed for differences in cell populations, cell-type specific gene expression, and inferred cellular communications.

Results

We leveraged snRNA-seq of the cerebellum in a clinically relevant rhesus macaque model of chorioamnionitis and preterm birth, to show that chorioamnionitis leads to Purkinje cell loss and disrupted maturation of granule cells and oligodendrocytes in the fetal cerebellum at late gestation. Purkinje cell loss is accompanied by decreased sonic hedgehog signaling from Purkinje cells to granule cells, which show an accelerated maturation, and to oligodendrocytes, which show accelerated maturation from pre-oligodendrocytes into myelinating oligodendrocytes.

Conclusion

These findings suggest a role of chorioamnionitis on disrupted cerebellar maturation associated with preterm birth and on the pathogenesis of neurodevelopmental disorders among preterm infants.
Effect of dolutegravir-based versus efavirenz-based antiretroviral therapy on excessive weight gain in adult treatment-naïve HIV patients at Matsanjeni health center, Eswatini: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Mukuna Didier M. , Decroo Tom , Nyapokoto Clara M.
Published: January 2024

Background

There is limited data on dolutegravir (DTG)-associated weight gain from settings with a dual burden of HIV and overnutrition.

Methods

In Eswatini (at Matsanjeni), among 156 and 160 adult patients on DTG-based and EFV-based antiretroviral therapy (ART), respectively, we studied excessive weight gain (BMI at 24 months ART greater than baseline and ≥25 kg/m2).

Results

The median BMI increase in DTG-based patients was 1.09 (IQR:-0.28,3.28) kg/m2 compared to 0.20 (IQR:-0.85,2.18) kg/m2 in EFV-based patients (p value = 0.001). DTG-based ART predicted excessive weight gain (aOR 2.61;95% CI:1.39–4.93).

Conclusion

Practitioners should consider DTG-based regimens as one of the risk factors for overweight/obesity.
EMID2 is a novel biotherapeutic for aggressive cancers identified by in vivo screening
Authors: Cappelletto Ambra , Alfì Edoardo , Volf Nina , Vu Thi Van Anh , Bortolotti Francesca , Ciucci Giulio , Vodret Simone , Fantuz Marco , Perin Martina , Colliva Andrea , Rozzi Giacomo , Rossi Matilde , Ruozi Giulia , Zentilin Lorena , Vuerich Roman , Borin Daniele , Lapasin Romano , Piazza Silvano , Chiesa Mattia , Lorizio Daniela , Triboli Luca , Kumar Sandeep , Morello Gaia , Tripodo Claudio , Pinamonti Maurizio , Piperno Giulia Maria , Benvenuti Federica , Rustighi Alessandra , Jo Hanjoong , Piccolo Stefano , Del Sal Giannino , Carrer Alessandro , Giacca Mauro , Zacchigna Serena
Published: January 2024

Background

New drugs to tackle the next pathway or mutation fueling cancer are constantly proposed, but 97% of them are doomed to fail in clinical trials, largely because they are identified by cellular or in silico screens that cannot predict their in vivo effect.

Methods

We screened an Adeno-Associated Vector secretome library (> 1000 clones) directly in vivo in a mouse model of cancer and validated the therapeutic effect of the first hit, EMID2, in both orthotopic and genetic models of lung and pancreatic cancer.

Results

EMID2 overexpression inhibited both tumor growth and metastatic dissemination, consistent with prolonged survival of patients with high levels of EMID2 expression in the most aggressive human cancers. Mechanistically, EMID2 inhibited TGFβ maturation and activation of cancer-associated fibroblasts, resulting in more elastic ECM and reduced levels of YAP in the nuclei of cancer cells.

Conclusion

This is the first in vivo screening, precisely designed to identify proteins able to interfere with cancer cell invasiveness. EMID2 was selected as the most potent protein, in line with the emerging relevance of the tumor extracellular matrix in controlling cancer cell invasiveness and dissemination, which kills most of cancer patients.
Intra-aortic balloon pump still has a role in late-onset myocardial infarction complicated by ventricular septal rupture with intractable heart failure: a case report
Authors: Alsagaff Mochamad Yusuf , Revianto Oky , Sembiring Yan Efrata , Ilman Muhammad Insani , Intan Ryan Enast
Published: January 2024

Background

The current guidelines have discouraged the routine use of intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) in cardiogenic shock complicating acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Since then, the trend of IABP utilization in ACS has been declining. Nevertheless, the guidelines still preserve the recommendation of IABP use in hemodynamic instability or cardiogenic shock caused by post myocardial infarction (MI) ventricular septal rupture (VSR).

Case presentation

A 46-years-old diabetic Southeast Asian female was referred from a peripheral facility with intractable heart failure despite treatment with vasoactive agents and diuretics for five days. The ECG suggested a recent anteroseptal myocardial infarction with normal high-sensitivity troponin-I value. The echocardiography detected a regional wall motion abnormality and a 10 mm wide ventricular septal defect. Invasive coronary angiography revealed a severe two-vessel coronary artery disease. We planned a delayed surgical strategy with preoperative optimization using IABP as a bridge to surgery. IABP implantation followed by significant hemodynamic improvement and rapid resolution of heart failure without any inotrope support. Afterwards, coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and VSR surgical repair were performed. We safely removed IABP on the third postoperative day with proper weaning and minimal vasoactive support.

Conclusion

We report a case where IABP still provided benefits for a patient with intractable heart failure caused by undetermined onset MI complicated by VSR. The use of IABP in such a case is in accordance with the recommendation of the current guidelines. Several studies showed that IABP use during preoperative optimization in the case of post-MI VSR was associated with survival benefits.
Investigating environmental transmission to resolve a Bacillus cereus group outbreak in a neonatal intensive care unit using core genome multilocus sequence typing
Authors: Tönnies Hauke , Heep Axel , Herrmann Jörg , Lange Matthias , Mellmann Alexander , Hamprecht Axel
Published: January 2024

Background

We analyzed an outbreak of Bacillus cereus group (Bcg) at a single-center neonatal intensive care unit level IV by conducting comprehensive sampling of both patients and the environment.

Methods

Between 06/2020 and 10/2021, all Bcg isolates identified by both regular colonization screening and additional sampling of the environment were subjected to whole-genome sequencing, followed by in vitro extraction of MLST ST, resistance genes and virulence factors. Using publicly available genome sequences, we defined an ad hoc core genome multilocus sequence typing (cgMLST) scheme comprising 2759 target genes for Bcg typing, which we applied to the detected isolates. We have compared the results with a stable cgMLST that was published in the meantime and completed the investigation with a SNP analysis.

Results

We analyzed 28 Bcg isolates from patient and environmental samples using MLST and cgMLST. This revealed multiple sequence types, with ST127 being the most common (n = 13). Both cgMLST schemes grouped ten of the 13 ST127 isolates into a cluster, including two invasive isolates from two different patients and several environmental samples. SNP analysis postulated a screen from a ventilation machine as a possible reservoir.

Conclusion

In sensitive settings such as neonatal intensive care units, considering the environment in outbreak analyses is crucial, especially when investigating potential transmission routes through shared devices. When dealing with widespread bacteria such as Bcg, high-resolution typing techniques are necessary. In this study, we successfully resolved an outbreak of Bcg infections using a custom cgMLST scheme combined with a SNP analysis.
Analysis of customer reviews with an improved VADER lexicon classifier
Authors: Barik Kousik , Misra Sanjay
Published: January 2024

Background

The importance of customer reviews in determining satisfaction has significantly increased in the digital marketplace. Using sentiment analysis in customer reviews has immense potential but encounters challenges owing to domain heterogeneity. The sentiment orientation of words varies by domain; however, comprehending domain-specific sentiment reviews remains a significant constraint.

Aim

This study proposes an Improved VADER (IVADER) lexicon-based classification model to evaluate customer sentiment in multiple domains. The model involves constructing a domain-specific dictionary based on the VADER lexicon and classifying doeviews using the constructed dictionary.

Methodology

The proposed IVADER model uses data preprocessing, Vectorizer transformation, WordnetLemmatizer-based feature selection, and enhanced VADER Lexicon classifier.

Result

Compared to existing studies, the IVVADER model accomplished outcomes of accuracy of 98.64%, precision of 97%, recall of 94%, f1-measure of 92%, and less training time of 44 s for classification.

Outcome

Product designers and business organizations can benefit from the IVADER model to evaluate multi-domain customer sentiment and introduce new products in the competitive online marketplace.
Determination of the VS profile at a “noisy” industrial site via active and passive data: The critical role of Love waves and the opportunities of multicomponent group velocity analysis
Authors: Dal Moro Giancarlo , Mazanec Martin
Published: January 2024

To define the procedures necessary to unambiguously define the subsurface model, a comprehensive set of active and passive seismic data was collected in an industrial area characterized by an extremely high level of background microtremors. Passive data are recorded to define three observables: the dispersion curve of the vertical component of Rayleigh waves via miniature array analysis of microtremors, the Love-wave dispersion curve via extended spatial autocorrelation, and the horizontal-to-vertical spectral ratio (HVSR). Active data used for the holistic analysis of surface waves are extracted from data recorded through a hybrid acquisition procedure accomplished with only two 3C geophones used to simultaneously define the HVSR at two points. Defined observables are combined according to three different approaches: the joint analysis of Rayleigh waves and HVSR, the joint analysis of Rayleigh and Love waves together with the HVSR, and the joint analysis of multicomponent group velocities together with the HVSR and Rayleigh-wave particle motion (RPM) curves. In agreement with the theory, data indicate that, in general, surface-wave modeling cannot be performed considering modal dispersion curves: dispersion obtained from passive data needs to be modeled considering the effective curve, whereas group velocity obtained from active data can be analyzed using the full velocity spectrum technique. Results indicate that joint inversion of Rayleigh-wave dispersion and HVSR does not necessarily ensure the correctness of the obtained S-wave velocity ([Formula: see text]) profile and that Love waves represent a key observable to fully constrain an unambiguous inversion procedure. However, the joint analysis of multicomponent group velocity spectra (from active multicomponent single-offset data) together with the HVSR and RPM curves is a further efficient way to obtain robust [Formula: see text] profiles through the active and passive data obtained by a single 3C geophone.
Safety and Efficacy of Denosumab in Children With Osteogenesis Imperfecta—the First Prospective Comparative Study
Authors: Liu Jiayi , Lin Xiaoyun , Sun Lei , Zhang Qian , Jiang Yan , Wang Ou , Xing Xiaoping , Xia Weibo , Li Mei
Published: January 2024

Context

Denosumab is a potential therapeutic agent for osteogenesis imperfecta (OI), but its efficacy and safety remain unclear in children with OI.

Objective

We aimed to investigate the effects of denosumab on bone mineral density (BMD), spinal morphometry, and safety in children with OI compared with zoledronic acid.

Methods

In this prospective study, 84 children or adolescents with OI were randomized to receive denosumab subcutaneous injection every 6 months or zoledronic acid intravenous infusion once. Changes of BMD and its Z-score, vertebral shape, serum levels of calcium and bone turnover biomarkers were assessed during the 1-year treatment.

Results

After 12 months of treatment, BMD at the lumbar spine, femoral neck, and total hip significantly increased by 29.3%, 27.8%, and 30.2% in the denosumab group, and by 32.2%, 47.1%, and 41.1% in the zoledronic acid group (all P < .001 vs baseline). Vertebral height and projection area significantly increased after denosumab and zoledronic acid treatment. Rebound hypercalcemia was found to be a common and serious side effect of denosumab, of which 14.3% reached hypercalcemic crisis. Rebound hypercalcemia could be alleviated by switching to zoledronic acid treatment.

Conclusion

Treatment with denosumab or zoledronic acid is beneficial in increasing BMD and improving the spinal morphometry of children with OI. However, denosumab should be used with caution in pediatric patients with OI because of its common and dangerous side effect of rebound hypercalcemia. The appropriate dosage and dosing interval of denosumab need to be further explored in children with OI.
Imaging of Pheochromocytomas and Paragangliomas
Authors: Timmers Henri J L M , Taïeb David , Pacak Karel , Lenders Jacques W M
Published: January 2024

Pheochromocytomas/paragangliomas are unique in their highly variable molecular landscape driven by genetic alterations, either germline or somatic. These mutations translate into different clusters with distinct tumor locations, biochemical/metabolomic features, tumor cell characteristics (eg, receptors, transporters), and disease course. Such tumor heterogeneity calls for different imaging strategies in order to provide proper diagnosis and follow-up. This also warrants selection of the most appropriate and locally available imaging modalities tailored to an individual patient based on consideration of many relevant factors including age, (anticipated) tumor location(s), size, and multifocality, underlying genotype, biochemical phenotype, chance of metastases, as well as the patient's personal preference and treatment goals. Anatomical imaging using computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging and functional imaging using positron emission tomography and single photon emission computed tomography are currently a cornerstone in the evaluation of patients with pheochromocytomas/paragangliomas. In modern nuclear medicine practice, a multitude of radionuclides with relevance to diagnostic work-up and treatment planning (theranostics) is available, including radiolabeled metaiodobenzylguanidine, fluorodeoxyglucose, fluorodihydroxyphenylalanine, and somatostatin analogues. This review amalgamates up-to-date imaging guidelines, expert opinions, and recent discoveries. Based on the rich toolbox for anatomical and functional imaging that is currently available, we aim to define a customized approach in patients with (suspected) pheochromocytomas/paragangliomas from a practical clinical perspective. We provide imaging algorithms for different starting points for initial diagnostic work-up and course of the disease, including adrenal incidentaloma, established biochemical diagnosis, postsurgical follow-up, tumor screening in pathogenic variant carriers, staging and restaging of metastatic disease, theranostics, and response monitoring.
Clinical and Pathological Predictors of Death for Adrenocortical Carcinoma
Authors: Pato Eduardo , Srougi Victor , Zerbini Claudia , Ledesma Felipe L , Tanno Fabio , Almeida Madson Q , Nahas William , Latronico Ana Claudia , Mendonca Berenice B , Chambô Jose L , Fragoso Maria Candida B V
Published: January 2024

Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a rare and lethal disease with a poor prognosis. This study aims to share our 41-year experience as a referral center, focusing on identifying risk factors associated with ACC mortality. Our retrospective analysis included a cohort of 150 adult patients with ACC in all stage categories, treated between 1981 and 2022. Tumor hormonal hypersecretion was observed in 78.6% of the patients, and the median age of diagnosis was 40 years. The majority presented as European Network for the Study of Adrenal Tumors (ENSAT) III or IV (22.9% and 31.2%, respectively), and the overall mortality rate was 54.6%. Independent predictors of death were elevated secretion of cortisol (HR = 2.0), androstenedione (HR = 2.2), estradiol (HR = 2.8), 17-OH progesterone (HR = 2.0), and 11-deoxycortisol (HR = 5.1), higher Weiss (HR = 4.3), modified Weiss (HR = 4.4), and Helsinki scores (HR = 12.0), advanced ENSAT stage (HR = 27.1), larger tumor size (HR = 2.7), higher Ki-67 percentage (HR = 2.3), and incomplete surgical resection (HR = 2.5). Mitosis greater than 5/50 high-power field (HR = 5.6), atypical mitosis (HR = 2.3), confluent necrosis (HR = 15.4), venous invasion (HR = 2.8), and capsular invasion (HR = 2.4) were also identified as independent predictors of death. Knowing the risk factors for ACC's mortality may help determine the best treatment option.
Kisspeptin Regulates Cell Invasion and Migration in Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Wu Hsien-Ming , Chen Liang-Hsuan , Chiu Wei-Jung , Tsai Chia-Lung
Published: January 2024

Kisspeptin (a product of the KISS1 gene and its receptor) plays an important role in obstetrics, gynecology, and cancer cell metastasis and behavior. In hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis and placentation, Kisspeptin/Kisspeptin receptor affects hormone release and represses trophoblast invasion into maternal deciduae. Endometrial cancer is one of the common gynecological cancers and is usually accompanied by metastasis, the risk factor that causes death. Recently, research has demonstrated that Kisspeptin/Kisspeptin receptor expression in aggressive-stage endometrial cancer tissues. However, the detailed mechanism of Kisspeptin/Kisspeptin receptor in regulating the motility of endometrial cancers is not well understood. In this study, we use endometrial cancer cell lines RL95-2, Ishikawa, HEC-1-A, and HEC-1-B as models to explore the molecular mechanism of Kisspeptin on cell motility. First, we discovered that Kisspeptin/Kisspeptin receptor was expressed in endometrial cancer cells, and Kisspeptin significantly regulated the migration and invasion of endometrial cancer cells. Furthermore, we explored the epithelial–mesenchymal transition marker expression and the underlying signals were regulated on Kisspeptin treatment. In conclusion, we suggest that Kisspeptin regulates endometrial cancer cell motility via FAK and Src expression and the ERK1/2, N-Cadherin, E-Cadherin, beta-Catenin, Twist, and matrix metalloproteinase signaling pathways. We expect these molecules could be candidates for the development of new approaches and therapeutic targets.
Low-Dose Radiation Yields Lower Rates of Pathologic Response in Esophageal Cancer Patients
Authors: Mantziari Styliani , Farinha Hugo Teixeira , Messier Marguerite , Winiker Michael , Allemann Pierre , Ozsahin Esat Mahmut , Demartines Nicolas , Piessen Guillaume , Schäfer Markus
Published: January 2024

Background

Although neoadjuvant chemoradiation (nCRT) followed by surgery is standard treatment for locally advanced esophageal or gastroesophageal junction (E/GEJ) cancer, the optimal radiation dose is still under debate.

Objective

The aim of this study was to assess the impact of different preoperative radiation doses (41.4 Gy, 45 Gy or 50.4 Gy) on pathologic response and survival in E/GEJ cancer patients.

Methods

All consecutive patients with E/GEJ tumors, treated with curative intent between January 2009 and December 2016 in two referral centers were divided into three groups (41.4 Gy, 45 Gy and 50.4 Gy) according to the dose of preoperative radiotherapy. Pathologic complete response (pCR) rates, postoperative morbidity, overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) were compared among the three groups, with separate analyses for adenocarcinoma (AC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).

Results

From the 326 patients analyzed, 48 were included in the 41.4 Gy group (14.7%), 171 in the 45 Gy group (52.5%) and 107 in the 50.4 Gy group (32.8%). Postoperative complication rates were comparable (p = 0.399). A pCR was observed in 15%, 30%, and 34% of patients in the 41.4 Gy, 45 Gy and 50.4 Gy groups, respectively (p = 0.047). A 50.4 Gy dose was independently associated with pCR (odds ratio 2.78, 95% confidence interval 1.10–7.99) in multivariate analysis. Within AC patients, pCR was observed in 6.2% of patients in the 41.4 Gy group, 29.2% of patients in the 45 Gy group, and 22.7% of patients in the 50.4 Gy group (p = 0.035). No OS or DFS differences were observed.

Conclusions

A pCR was less common after a preoperative radiation dose of 41.4 Gy in AC patients. Radiation dose had no impact on postoperative morbidity, long-term survival, and recurrence.
Physical rehabilitation in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction: are the cardiac implantable devices a barrier?
Authors: Guşetu Gabriel , Caloian Bogdan , Tomoaia Raluca , Frîngu Florina , Mocanu Lorena , Irimie Diana , Comșa Horatiu , Cismaru Gabriel , Zdrenghea Dumitru , Pop Dana
Published: January 2024

The development of implantable cardiac devices brought a spectacular improvement in the prognosis of patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction, reducing the risk of sudden cardiac death by implanting a cardiac defibrillator, improving ventricular remodeling through cardiac resynchronization and, at the same time, increasing the pa-tient's functional capacity, reducing decompensation episodes and hospitalization. Phys-ical training at moderate exercise intensity is safe and effective in patients with heart fail-ure and cardiac implantable devices; even if they have a severely impaired effort capacity and device-related issues, the assessment of the disease status and of the device parame-ters before the enrollment in the training program warrants the improvement of physical performance and disease outcomes without notable adverse events.
The Impact of Mineral Water Balneotherapy on Pain and Physical Function in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis: A Pilot Study
Authors: Ciurba (Pastor) Anca-Paula , Haidu Ionel , Sîrbu Elena , Gavril Gavriliu Adrian , Marcu Florin , Motofelea Alexandru Cătălin , Boca Ioan Cosmin , Ianc Dorina
Published: January 2024

Objectives: This pilot study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a 2-week rehabilitation program consisting of electrotherapy, physical therapy, and balneotherapy in patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA); (2) Methods: A total of 98 patients were enrolled in the study and assigned to either an experimental group or a control group. The primary outcome measures were pain intensity and knee function scores, while secondary outcomes included functional tests such as the 30s chair stand test, stair climbing test, and 40-meter walk test; (3) Results: Results showed significant improvements in pain intensity, knee function scores, and the 30s chair stand test in both groups. However, the experimental group showed more significant improvement in the 40-meter walk test than the control group. Linear Model ANOVA test showed that after the 2-week treatment, participants receiving balneotherapy showed significant progress compared to the control group in pain intensity, knee function scores, and walking test. The results for the stair climbing test did not differ significantly between the two groups, but it improved in both; (4) Conclusions: Study findings suggest that a rehabilitation program consisting of electrotherapy, physical therapy, and balneotherapy can show significant improvement in regards to pain and function in patients with KOA.
The role of the Dual X-Ray Absorptiometry investigation in the design of personalized training programs for women with postmenopausal osteopenia / osteoporosis
Authors: Holubiac Iulian Ștefan , Leuciuc Florin Valentin
Published: January 2024

Osteoporosis affects many postmenopausal women and represents an economic burden. The purpose of the study was to observe the effects of a 1-year strength program on the bone mass at the level of the femur. Twenty-nine women were included in the randomized study, being divided into an exercise group (56±2.9 years old, n = 20) and a control group (56.4±2.1, n = 19). After 12 months of participation in the strength program (twice a week, using intensities of 70% of 1RM and 50% of 1RM) the exercise group showed statistically significant increases in all areas of interest of the femur as follows: femoral neck (+2.05%, p = .001, η_p^2 = .45), trochanteric area (+3.80%, p < .001, η_p^2 = .75), intertrochanteric area (+0.97%, p = .013, η_p^2 = .37), Ward's triangle (+1.77%, p = .023, η_p^2 = .24) and femur's total bone mineral density (+1.97%, p < .001, η_p^2 = .51). After 12 months, at the femoral neck region, the increase in bone density was 7.3 times higher compared to the control group (p = .01, F(1, 36) = 6.62, η_p^2 = .15, 95% CI [0.002, 0.020], at the trochanteric area the increase was 8 times higer compared to the control group (p < .001, F (1, 36) = 16.48, η_p^2 = .31, 95% CI [0.009, 0.027] and at the total level of the femur, the increase in bone density was 8.6 times higher compared to the control group (p = .01, F (1, 36) = 7.09, η_p^2 = .17, 95% CI [0.003, 0.024]. In conclusion, alternating the intensities of 70% of a maximum repetition with those of 50% of a maximum repetition within the same set of 12 repetitions, bone mineral density at the level of the femur can undergo improvements.
The COVID-19 pandemic has revealed an increase in cancer diagnoses and a decrease in prehabilitation programs among patients in Transylvania
Authors: Ciumărnean Lorena , Milaciu Mircea Vasile , Vesa Ștefan Cristian , Rebeleanu Codrin , Orășan Olga Hilda , Para Ioana , Leach Nicoleta Valentina , Hirișcău Elisabeta Ioana , Dogaru Gabriela Bombonica
Published: January 2024

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has brought significant disruptions to the landscape of oncological medicine, resulting in postponed cancer diagnoses and treatments, poor implementation of prehabilitation programmes, and an overall altered general care. Purpose: This paper aims to evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the profile of patients admitted to a clinical Hospital from Transylvania, and to evaluate its detrimental effect on the implementation of prehabilitation/rehabilitation programs for patients diagnosed with cancer. Material and methods: The study compared two groups of patients, the ones admitted to the hospital in the year before the pandemic (2019) and the others admitted in 2020. We recorded the number of new cancer diagnoses, the performed interventions of prehabilitation/rehabilitation and we compared the results. Results: The diagnosis of cancer was statistically significantly more frequent in the pandemic year 2020 compared to the same timeframe in 2019. Additionally, fewer interventions of physical prehabilitation or rehabilitation were applied during the pandemic period. Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic had a detrimental effect on the cancer patient´s benefit from prehabilitation/rehabilitation interventions
Effect of hyperbaric chamber on saturation and heart frequency
Authors: Bjelica Bojan , Zelenović Milan , Alexe Cristina Ioana , Aksović Nikola , Pržulj Radomir , Pan-telić Saša , Bubanj Saša , Kulundžić Dejan , Lungu Ecaterina , Ciocan Vasile Catalin , Alexe Dan Iulian
Published: January 2024

Introduction: (1) Background: The use of oxygen under pressure greater than atmospheric represents progress that can be measured in terms of importance with the introduction of blood transfusion and antibiotics in therapy. The aim of the research was to determine the impact of using a hyperbaric chamber (HC) on muscle, arterial saturation and heart rate.; (2) Methods: Twelve respondents who engaged in recreational exercise. HC Macy Pan O2 801 was used for oxygen delivery. Muscle saturation was assessed with the IDIAG Moxy device. Arterial saturation was monitored with an Omron OM-35 device, and intraventricular heart rate with a Polar FT2 device. All parameters were monitored before and after HC treatment for 50 min. and constant pressure of 2.5 ATA.; (3) Results: There was a significant increase in saturation in the pectoralis, (+8.99%) p=.038, hamstring (+8.62%) p=.042. In capillary saturation (+1.42%) p=.008. Heart rate was reduced on average by about 8.5 beats p= .003. In the region of the latissimus do not record a statistically significant change in oxygen (+6.64%) p=060, however, numerical differences were determined.; (4) Conclusions: HC is an effective means of achieving positive physiological effects. It needs to be determined whether a higher ATA or duration of treatment gives better effects.
Optimising Physical Education Classes in Schools Using Technology: The use of mobile apps for active participation of medically exempt students with a focus on skill development and medical rehabilitation
Authors: Pârvu Carmen , Szabo Dan Alexandru , Ungurean Bogdan Constantin , Silișteanu Sinziana Călina , Puni Alexandru Rareș
Published: January 2024

The literature focuses more on healthy students, and the methodologies for organising physical education lessons do not address in depth the problem of physically exempt students who, with time, transform from exempt students into possible patients.
This research aims to develop the application "Info-Scutit-Efort" in physical educa-tion lessons to facilitate learning, assessment of medically exempt students and their en-gagement in directed/adapted effort recovery programs in the physical education lesson.
The research also aims to extend the use of the application to cover a broader range of needs. This study highlights the usefulness of the "Info-Scutit-Efort" app to actively and consciously engage 55 medically exempt students (58.2% of the total and 42.8% partially) in physical education lessons.
The app, in an enhanced form, offers free and flexible access to different functionalities, in line with all the content of the curriculum and the Medical Checklist, transformed into questions so that the exempted student can access information about previously taught homework, homework taught in real-time, or information about general or particular medical recommendations depending on the diagnosis.
In the assessment section, students can access tasks and tests to assess their knowledge, and in the self-assessment section, they can use tools to track their progress. The assessment provided by the app after the session can give the student a grade for previously taught information if they access the homework from the lessons covered, or it can provide a grade for the current assessment to test active and conscious participation in the lesson just taught as well as information about the indications, recovery programs, received from doctors for various conditions for which students have received medical exemption.
The results of the simple linear regression analysis revealed that the relationship between the time spent accessing the application (minutes = 18.60±4.821) and the grade received is significant (p <0.05), with a regression coefficient of 0.241 and an R² of 0.762, which means that the time spent accessing the application explains 76.2% of the variation in the grade received.
The Polyperfluoromethylisopropyl Ether used as a surface tensiometry tool for non-invasive quality assessment of peloids (TVS mud index®): An overview
Authors: Rossi Davide
Published: January 2024

Background Surface tensiometry consented to characterize the surface free energy of geomaterials in an integrated and non-destructive way.
A new surface tensiometry tool, based on the contact angle measurement of Polyperfluoromethylisopropyl Ether (TVS mud index), has thus developed in the early 2000s. The TVS mud index was for the first time employed from 2005 to 2010 for surface tensiometry characterization of peloids for pelotherapy from Abano Terme and Montegrotto Terme (Pa-dova, Italy). We aim to report the surface tensiometry application in the thermal field, and show the potentialities of TVS mud index as a marker for the non invasive quality control of the peloids and their maturation process.
Methods The determination of the typical chemical-mineralogical characteristics of a Euganean Thermal Mud (ETM) and their surface tensiometry allowed us to demonstrate the link between the chemical data from X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis and they performed using a tensiometer to assess the quality of the peloid and its biological maturation process.
Results The liquid test Polyperfluoromethylisopropyl Ether-based demonstrated the link between variations in volume elements and surface free energy of muddy matrices. The research results here showed that the TVS mud index is linked to the chemical pattern of peloids.
Conclusions The research work implemented in the period 2005-2010 showed the potentialities of surface tensiometry in the assessment of peloids for pelotherapy using Polyperfluoromethylisopropyl Ether as a liquid test.
Gender differences in hand grip strength of children in Bosnia and Herzegovina aged 11 to 14 years. A cross - sectional study
Authors: Pavlović Ratko , Marko Marko , Eken Özgür , Radulovic Nikola , Badau Dana
Published: January 2024

Hand grip strength (HGS) serves as a multifaceted and critical parameter within the domain of motor function and is widely recognized as a pivotal aspect in the comprehensive evaluation of the development of school-aged children. The aim of the research was to determine the values of HGS, the trend of changes and differences between boys and girls aged 11-14 years from Bosnia and Herzegovina. A cross-sectional survey was conducted on a sample of 585 students. The subsample was divided into 307 boys (11y = 81; 12y = 87; 13y = 77; 14y = 62) and 278 girls (11y = 66; 12y = 83; 13 y =79; 14y = 50). Hand muscle strength was measured using the method of isometric dynamometry in laboratory conditions, with a standardized test - Hand grip (according to the American Society of Hand Therapists). The force achieved during the maximum hand grip (dynamometry) was measured with a digital hand dynamometer CAMRY-EH101, USA. Statistically significant differences between male and female respondents were confirmed (for age 12, T = -2.651, p<0.009; for age 13, T =-5.178; p<0.000; for age 14, T =-7.124; p<0.000). In both sexes, the dominance of the strength of the right (dominant) hand than left (non-dominant) hand is evident. The study confirmed a positive trend of strength development in both sexes, as well as gender differences in the HGS test between children aged 12 to 14 years.
Distribution of plantar pressures under static conditions, in various areas of the pediatric flatfoot in sensitive period of development – pilot study
Authors: Panaet Elena Adelina , Zwierzchowska Anna , Peyré-Tartaruga Leonardo Alexandre , Alexe Dan Iulian , Rosołek Barbara , Alexe Cristina Ioana
Published: January 2024

Background: Flatfoot can alter the foot's ability to uniformly distribute the body weight on the plantar areas, possibly leading to biomechanical imbalances in the entire body. The purpose of the study was to determine the correlation between flatfoot and plantar pressure distribution in static conditions. (2) Material and methods: The study included a group of 23 children with flat feet (7.43±0.58 years old), which analyzed the correlations between the Foot Posture Index 6 (FPI 6) values and the plantar pressure distribution values. The instruments used were the Foot Posture Index 6 (FPI 6- a quantitative anatomical assessment under static conditions) and the Podata (device for recording images in real time of the body weight distribution on the plantar support). (3) Results: The statistical results have indicated significant correlations of strong intensity between the flat foot and the plantar pressure distribution in the midfoot, but also that the flatfoot significantly influences the values of the plantar pressure distribution in the midfoot. (4) Conclusion: The data showed that flatfeet influence the values of the plantar pressure distribution in the mid-area of the sole.
Differences in body composition parameters between female handball players and non-athlete girls during puberty
Authors: Mocanu George Danut , Postelnicu Madalina Gabriela , Adam Andreea Maria , Popa Cristian
Published: January 2024

Background and Study Purpose.: The body composition study (Inbody 720/Biospace (Korea)) presents the advantage of a detailed exploration of some complex parameters, which can pro-vide useful information related to the nutritional status and health of those evaluated. The pur-pose of the research is the comparative analysis of these indicators for pubertal girls, divided in-to two categories: handball practitioners and non-athletes.
Material and Methods. The study participants come from 2 groups: 59 handball players/HB (Age=11.72±.82, Height =157.64±8.62, Weight =53.16±10.36) and 115 non-athletes/NA (Age=11.67±.75, Height = 155.33±7.16, Weight =48.84±10.40). The groups were investigated be-tween March and April 2023. Results. The BMI values obtained were interpreted by calculating the international percentages, for the age range 2-19 years. The group of handball players pre-sents superior values regarding weight, height, BMI percentiles, bone mineral content, body cell mass, basal metabolic rate, arm muscle circumference and fitness score. According to the BMI classification, there are no handball players in the underweight class, and 40% of the HB group and 31% of the NA belong to the Overweight and Obese classes. Better values for lean mass of the HB group are reported for all body areas and body segments, with significant differences compared to the NA group. Fat control recommendations indicate the need to remove more fat for the NA group and add more muscle (over 80% of the components of this group). Both groups have problems with abdominal obesity; approximately a quarter of the students having WHR values within Abd. Obesity. The Strength levels indicator shows better values for the HB group (majority in the Normal and Developed categories), and over a quarter of the NA group has problems at the lower body level (fall within the Weak level).
Conclusions. According to the values provided by Obesity Degree by Body Fat, one third of the female students of both groups have obesity problems, which represents an alarm signal for the health of the young generation, aspects also confirmed by the analyzed studies. The muscle/fat ratio indicates for the NA group lower percentage values for muscle/SMM and higher for fat/BFM, compared to the HB group, so the physical activity specific to handball players has a de-termining role in explaining these values. The results of our study provide important data relat-ed to body composition values in the puberty stage for handball girls. These data are useful as values to which these parameters can be compared in other stages of preparation (the competi-tive phase or the recovery phase after competitions).
Assessing quality management systems in physical therapy: a cross-sectional analysis of service performance and patient satisfaction
Authors: Iconaru Elena Ioana , Chirlesan Dumitru , Tudor Mariana , Ciucurel Constantin
Published: January 2024

Background: This study examined the quality of physical therapy services across di-verse settings through a cross-sectional correlational analysis. Its fundamental objective lies in exploring the nuanced factors that contextualize the quality of physical therapy practices. (2) Methods: We introduced the Physical Therapy Services Evaluation Ques-tionnaire (PSEQ) and gathered patient satisfaction data through a Visual Analog Scale (VAS). The study involved 30 physical therapists (average age 39.57 ± 9.37 years, 40% males and 60% females), assessed via PSEQ, with their work experience (WE) specified. Each physical therapist received feedback from 10 patients using VAS. (3) Results: Follow-ing content validation, PSEQ demonstrated strong internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha coefficient = 0.89). Correlational analyses showed significant positive associations be-tween age and WE, age and PSEQ global score, WE and PSEQ global score, and between VAS score and PSEQ global score (p ≤ 0.001). Linear regression analyses confirmed these relationships (p ≤ 0.001) and offered a quantifiable basis for predictions, essential for in-formed decision-making in physical therapy service management and research. (4) Con-clusions: The study established robust correlations between physical therapists' age, WE, and service evaluations. Patient satisfaction, measured through VAS, significantly influ-ences service evaluations, underscoring the importance of continuous professional devel-opment and patient-centered care in physical therapy services.
Incidental discovery of chronic lacunar infarction in the head of the caudate nucleus: pathophysiological considerations and retroactive etiologic diagnosis of a depressive syndrome. Case presentation
Authors: Anghelescu Aurelian , Rotarescu Virginia , Munteanu Constantin , Anghelescu Lucia Ana Maria , Onose Gelu
Published: January 2024

: Introduction. Neuroimaging studies demonstrated the complex caudate nucleus' interrelationships within topographically organized cortical networks and its strategic role in emotional balance.
Case presentation. The clinical case depicts a 71-year-old female patient with chronic depressive syndrome, orthostatic hypotension, hyperlipidemia, and arthritis. CT cerebral imagery incidentally revealed an old lacunar infarction in the right caudate nucleus with a diameter of about 6 mm.
Written informed consent was obtained from the patient for the inclusion and use of materials related to the case, respecting the confidentiality of her identity data. The presentation of this clinical case has the approval of the ethics commission of TEHBA (no. 40205/01.09.2023).
Discussion. The authors hypothesized that the old lacuna was incriminated as the organic substrate for chronic neuropsychiatric illness in an older woman with risk factors for cerebral small vessel disease.
The etiopathological assumption was contextualized in a selective literature review that focused on relevant data from recent publications and emphasized the caudate`s strategic role in emotional balance and dysthymia.
Unilateral or bilateral small lacunae in the caudate nuclei are associated with a high risk of developing psychiatric complications but not motor deficits after stroke.
Tylopilus dunensis (Boletaceae, Basidiomycota): notes on morphological, phylogenetical and distributional aspects
Authors: Valões-Araújo Juliane C. , Barbosa-Silva Anderlechi , Koroiva Ricardo , Sá Mariana C.A. , Roy Mélanie , Wartchow Felipe
Published: January 2024

Tylopilus is a worldwide distributed genus of boletes with about 100 known taxa, of which at least 16 are fromBrazil and Guyana. Tylopilus dunensis, a species originally described from sand dune habitats in the state of Rio Grande doNorte in northeastern Brazil, has now been recovered in a ‘tabuleiro’ (i.e., tableland forest) from Paraíba. The main pheneticfeatures of this still poorly known species are the orange to orange-ochraceous pileus with yellowish brown margins, unchangingpileus context, the pale cream hymenophore with wide pores, the yellowish stipe, the small and narrow basidiospores, andthe long and frequent dextrinoid pseudocystidioid pleurocystidia. After the discovery of the phylloporoid tube trama in ourspecimens, we emended tube trama type of T. dunensis.
The genera Hypotrachyna and Remototrachyna (Parmeliaceae, Ascomycota) in northeastern Argentina
Authors: Michlig Andrea , Moreno Sara , Rodríguez María Pía , Niveiro Nicolás , Neffa Viviana Solís
Published: January 2024

Morphological, chemical and phylogenetic examination of the lichen genera Hypotrachyna and Remototrachyna(Parmeliaceae, Ascomycota) revealed the presence of 12 species in northeastern Argentina. Three of them, H. osseoalba,H. subformosana, and R. costaricensis, are recorded for the first time for the country. The known distribution range of othereight species in the region is also extended. Distribution and comments are presented for all species, and descriptions andillustrations for most relevant records. The phylogenetic relationships of the species of Hypotrachyna and Remototrachynareported from northeastern Argentina are analyzed.