Medicine and Pharmacology

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Article
Medicine and Pharmacology
Cardiac and Cardiovascular Systems

Muzakkir Amir,

Nooryasni Muchlis,

Peter Kabo,

Aussie Fitriani Ghaznawie,

Andi Alief Utama Armyn,

Muhammad Zaki Rahmani

Abstract: Background: Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is an adaptive response to hypertension. The Cornell Product (CP) criteria, combining Cornell voltage and QRS duration in Electrocardiogram (ECG), is a widely used method for diagnosing LVH due to its sensitivity in detecting changes in the left ventricle’s electrical activity and structure. The CP criteria remain one of the most accessible and effective ECG-based methods for LVH detection in hypertensive populations. However, research on the diagnostic performance remains limited. Methods: This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of the CP criteria in hypertensive patients. A cross-sectional design was employed with normal group (41) and LVH group (74). Results: Age was the most significant predictor of left ventricular geometry (LVG) (adjusted p-value 0.000, OR 9.01, 95% CI 2.81-28.9). The correlation between LVH detection using ECG with CP criteria and echocardiography was not significant (p-value 0.513). At the standard threshold of ≥2440 mmms, the CP criteria showed a sensitivity of 16.22% and high specificity of 88%. After modifying the cutoff to ≥1240 mmms, sensitivity improved to 55.41% and specificity to 58%. Conclusion: while the CP criteria show high specificity, their sensitivity for detecting LVH remains suboptimal, though adjusting the cutoff enhances diagnostic performance.
Review
Medicine and Pharmacology
Pharmacy

Shree Devi M. S.,

Ashwin Kumar K.,

Sathiyarajeswaran P.,

Vinayak S.,

Muthukumar N. J.

Abstract: This review highlights the innovative development of orally disintegrating tablets (ODTs) derived from Siddha traditional herbal medicine dosage forms. It emphasizes the advancements and transformative approaches in Siddha medicine that enable its integration into modern ODT’s formulations, primarily aimed at improving patient compliance. The focus is particularly on pediatric and geriatric populations, addressing the unique challenges in adapting traditional formulations into contemporary dosage forms. Additionally, the incorporation of taste-masking techniques to enhance palatability for herbal drugs and enhance the patient compliance is discussed. Key aspects of preparation techniques, evaluation parameters, and strategies for ensuring the efficacy and stability of these formulations are comprehensively reviewed. This work underscores the potential of ODTs to enhance the accessibility and therapeutic acceptability of traditional herbal medicine Siddha across diverse age groups.
Article
Medicine and Pharmacology
Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Thierry Poynard,

Olivier Deckmyn,

Raluca Pais,

Judith Aron-Wisnewsky,

Valentina Peta,

Pierre Bedossa,

Frederic Charlotte,

Maharajah Ponnaiah,

Jean-Michel Oppert,

Jean-Michel Siksik

+6 authors
Abstract: Background and aims: Bariatric surgery (BS), drugs approved for type-2-diabetes (T2D), obesity, and liver fibrosis (resmetirom) announce the widespread use of fibrosis-tests in patients with metabolic liver disease (MASLD). An unmet need is to reduce the uncertainty of biomarkers for the diagnosis of the early stage of clinically significant fibrosis (eF). This can be achieved if three essential but neglected STARD methods (3M) are used—a more sensitive histological score than the standard comparator (five-tiers), the weighted area under the characteristic-curve (wAUROC) instead of the binary-AUROC, and biopsy length. We applied 3M to FibroTest-T2D to demonstrate this reduction of uncertainty, and constructed proxies predicting eF in large populations. Methods: For uncertainty, seven subsets were analyzed, four included biopsies (n=1,903), and to assess eF incidence, three MASLD-populations (n=299,098). FibroTest-T2D classification-rates after BS and in out-patients-T2D (n=402) were compared with and without 3M. In MASLD, trajectories of proxies and incidence against confounding-factors used hazard-ratios.Results: After BS (110 biopsies), reversal of eF was observed in 16/29 patients (84%) using seven-tier scores vs. 3/20 patients (47%) using five-tier scores (P=.005). When biopsy length was above the median, FibroTest-T2D wAUROC was .90 (SD=.01), and the wAUROC was .88 (SD=.1) when the length was below the median (P<.001). For the first time, obesity was associated with eF, before T2D (P<.001), and perimenopausal age with apoA1 and haptoglobin increases (P<.0001).Conclusion: Validations of circulating biomarkers need to assess their uncertainty. FibroTest-T2D predicts fibrosis regression after BS. Applying 3M and adjustments could avoid misinterpretations in MASLD surveillance.
Review
Medicine and Pharmacology
Neuroscience and Neurology

Gianluca Galieri,

Vittorio Orlando,

Roberto Altieri,

Manlio Barbarisi,

Alessandro Olivi,

Giovanni Sabatino,

Giuseppe La Rocca

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Lumbar spine surgery has undergone significant technological transformation in recent years, driven by the goals of minimizing invasiveness, improving precision, and enhancing clinical outcomes. Emerging tools—including robotics, augmented reality, computer-assisted navigation, and artificial intelligence—have complemented the evolution of minimally invasive surgical (MIS) approaches, such as endoscopic and lateral interbody fusions. Methods: This systematic review evaluates literature from February 2020 to February 2025 on technological and procedural innovations in LSS. Eligible studies focused on degenerative lumbar pathologies, advanced surgical technologies, and reported clinical or perioperative outcomes. Randomized controlled trials, comparative studies, meta-analyses, and large case series were included. Results: A total of 32 studies met inclusion criteria. Robotic-assisted surgery demonstrated high accuracy in pedicle screw placement (~92–94%) and reduced intraoperative blood loss and radiation exposure, although long-term clinical outcomes were comparable to conventional techniques. Intraoperative navigation improved instrumentation precision, while AR enhanced ergonomic workflow and reduced surgeon distraction. AI tools showed promise in surgical planning, guidance, and outcome prediction but lacked definitive evidence of clinical superiority. MIS techniques—including endoscopic discectomy and MIS-TLIF—offered reduced blood loss, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery, with equivalent pain relief, fusion rates, and complication profiles compared to open procedures. Lateral and oblique approaches (XLIF/OLIF) further optimized alignment and indirect decompression, with favorable perioperative metrics. Conclusions: Recent innovations in lumbar spine surgery have enhanced technical precision and perioperative efficiency without compromising patient outcomes. While short-term benefits are clear, long-term clinical advantages and cost-effectiveness require further investigation. Integration of robotics, navigation, AI, and MIS into spine surgery reflects an ongoing shift toward personalized, data-driven, and less invasive care.
Article
Medicine and Pharmacology
Immunology and Allergy

Jiyue Zhu,

Xiang Zhu,

Tingting Su,

Huiqing Zhou,

Shouhua Wang,

Weibin Shi

Abstract: Background: Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are crucial factors affecting the occurrence, progression and prognosis of gastric cancer. Disulfidptosis, a type of programmed cell death, results from abnormal accumulation of disulfide bonds in high-SLC7A11 cells. Research have demonstrated that upregulated SLC7A11 is common in human cancers, but the effect of disulfidptosis on gastric cancer remains unclear. It is of great significance to recognize disulfidptosis -related lncRNAs (drlncRNAs) and develop a risk signature with prognostic value in gastric cancer. Methods: The transcriptome data and clinical information of gastric cancer patients were obtained from TCGA (the Cancer Genome Atlas) database. A 3 drlncRNAs risk model was built by three common regression analysis methods. Then we used ROC curves, independent prognostic analysis and other methods to assess the accuracy of the model. Furthermore, GO and KEGG enrichment analysis, immune infiltration analysis and drug sensitivity prediction were also performed in this study. Finally, TMB, MSI, and TIDE analyses were conducted to further explore the difference of high- and low- risk score group in immunotherapy response. Results: We constructed a prognostic model composed of 3 drlncRNAs (AC107021.2, AC016394.2 and AC129507.1). Univariate and multivariate Cox regression proved that the model was able to predict the prognosis of GC patients independently. GO and KEGG analyses suggested that the high-risk group mainly enriched in sulfur compound binding, canonical WNT signaling pathway, cell-substrate adherens junction, cAMP signaling pathway and so on. TME analysis indicated that ImmuneScores, StromalScores, and ESTIMATEScores were higher in the high-risk group. Meanwhile, the high-risk group showed higher levels of immune cell infiltration, while the low-risk group exhibited higher expression levels of immune checkpoints. Our research further revealed that, compared to patients in the high-risk group, patients in the low-risk group had higher tumor mutation burden, a higher proportion of MSI-H, and lower TIDE scores. Finally, gemcitabine, ABT.888 (veliparib) and other sensitive drugs were confirmed to be more effective in low-risk groups. Conclusion: The risk model we constructed can independently predict prognosis and provide precise and individual clinical treatment guidance for patients with GC.
Article
Medicine and Pharmacology
Pathology and Pathobiology

Alyne Riani Moreira,

Camila Uchoa Silva,

Leticia de Paula Costa Mattos,

Jussara Jesus Simão,

Veronica Camargo Berti,

Franciele Jesus Lima,

Alex Ferreira Silva,

Suellen Karoline Moreira Bezerra,

Cintia Nascimento Silva,

Maria Isabel Cardoso Alonso Vale

+3 authors
Abstract: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is characterized by an abnormal inflammatory response in the airways and alveoli due to prolonged exposure to harmful particles or gases. Despite treatments like bronchodilators and corticosteroids, challenges remain due to the disease’s heterogeneity and medication side effects, such as pulmonary infections. Recent studies suggest that blocking IL-17 could reduce inflammation in lung injury models. This study evaluated the effects of an IL-17 neutralizing antibody in a cigarette smoke-induced COPD mouse model. Mice were exposed to cigarette smoke for 6 months, and treatment with the antibody was initiated in the 5th month. Three experimental groups were formed: control, COPD, and COPD + anti-IL-17. Results showed an increase in the mean linear intercept (Lm) in the COPD group, while treatment with the neutralizing antibody reversed the structural changes. Additionally, the expression of inflammatory cytokines and the RORγt gene was higher in the COPD group. The study concludes that IL-17 neutralizing antibody treatment can reverse functional and structural lung alterations in COPD.
Article
Medicine and Pharmacology
Oncology and Oncogenics

Tomohiro Tanaka,

Hiroyuki Suzuki,

Tomokazu Ohishi,

Manabu Kawada,

Mika K. Kaneko,

Yukinari Kato

Abstract: Podoplanin (PDPN), also referred to as T1a/Aggrus, is a type I transmembrane sialoglycoprotein that plays a crucial role in invasiveness, stemness, and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, all of which contribute to malignant progression of tumors. Therefore, monoclonal antibody (mAb) against PDPN has been evaluated in preclinical models as a promising tumor therapy strategy. However, PDPN plays an essential role in normal development, such as in the development of the lungs. The on-target toxicity by anti-PDPN mAbs to normal cells should be avoided to minimize adverse effects. A cancer-specific mAb (CasMab) against PDPN, PMab-117 (rat IgM, kappa) was previously established. This study engineered the humanized IgG1 version (humPMab-117) to investigate antitumor activity. Flow cytometry analysis confirmed that humPMab-117 recognized PDPN-overexpressed glioma LN229 (LN229/PDPN) cells as well as PDPN-positive PC-10 (human lung squamous cell carcinoma) and LN319 (human glioblastoma) cells. In contrast, humPMab-117 did not react with normal epithelial cells from the lung bronchus, gingiva, mammary gland, corneal, and normal kidney podocytes, suggesting that humPMab-117 retains the cancer-specific reactivity. Furthermore, humPMab-117 effectively induced antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity and complement-dependent cytotoxicity against LN229/PDPN, PC-10, and LN319 cells. In the xenograft tumor models, humPMab-117 demonstrated strong antitumor efficacy. These results suggest the potential of humPMab-117 as a therapeutic antibody for treating PDPN-positive malignant tumors.
Review
Medicine and Pharmacology
Clinical Medicine

Tyler Hu

Abstract: An electrocardiogram (ECG, or EKG) is a non-invasive recording of the heart’s electrical activity, captured via electrodes on the skin. Developed by Willem Einthoven in 1902, who later earned the 1924 Nobel Prize in Medicine, the ECG has become a fundamental tool in cardiac diagnostics. Physiologically, each heartbeat is driven by the coordinated depolarization and repolarization of cardiac muscle cells. The cardiac conduction system (including the sinoatrial node, atrioventricular node, bundle branches, and Purkinje fibers) orchestrates the orderly spread of electrical impulses through the atria and ventricles. The ECG tracings on paper or monitor represent the summation of these electrical currents over time, providing insight into heart rhythm, rate, and the integrity of myocardial tissue. Clinically, ECGs are prevalent in evaluating chest pain, palpitations, syncope, and numerous other cardiovascular presentations, and they are routinely used to screen for heart disease and monitor cardiac therapies. This paper provides an overview of ECG basics, interpretation of normal waveforms and intervals, and an in-depth review of various ECG abnormalities. We will discuss arrhythmias, conduction blocks, ischemic changes, electrolyte disturbances, and structural heart disease indications on ECG, describing their characteristic ECG features, clinical implications, pathophysiology, and common causes.
Article
Medicine and Pharmacology
Obstetrics and Gynaecology

Balint Farkas,

Kata Szilvia Papp,

Szilard Kolumban,

Kálmán András Kovács,

József Bódis,

Gabor Fazekas

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Uterus transplantation (UTx) is a novel, clinically successful treatment option for patients with absolute uterine factor infertility (AUFI) seeking biolog-ical motherhood. The procedure has been performed over 100 times worldwide in the past decade at 20 centers, but it remains widely unfamiliar, even among healthcare profes-sionals. This study assessed general knowledge of the procedure and identified knowledge gaps to better understand the general population’s perception of UTx in prep-aration for Hungary’s first procedure. Methods: This prospective study, conducted between December 18, 2024, and January 5, 2025, distributed an online survey to 1500 Hungarian men and women aged 18 to 70 via e-mail. The questionnaire contained 24 questions on their opinions about organ donation, transplantation, infertility, surrogacy, and uterus transplantation. Results: Most of the participants (77%, 1155/1500) supported UTx (strongly agree: 44%, 660/1500; agree: 33%, 495/1500). Among participants personally affected by fertility prob-lems, 84% (152/181) supported UTx, with 51% (92/181) strongly agreeing that it should be performed. Only 4% of respondents rejected UTx. Notably, only 15% of respondents had heard of UTx being performed abroad. Conclusions: Our representative online survey demonstrates favorable public attitudes and opinions regarding UTx; increased public awareness is necessary for higher ac-ceptance rates.
Article
Medicine and Pharmacology
Epidemiology and Infectious Diseases

José Daniel Sánchez,

Kimberlly Pamela Montenegro Cuello,

Arjuna Alejandro Rodriguez Proano

Abstract: This study examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on vaccination coverage in Ecuador, analyzing trends before (2019) and during the pandemic (2020-2021). Using data from the Ministry of Public Health and the National Institute of Statistics and Censuses, the study compares routine childhood vaccination coverage and COVID-19 vaccination efforts. Results indicate a significant decline in routine vaccination coverage during the pandemic, with reductions observed for vaccines such as BCG, pentavalent, pneumococcal, and rotavirus. Furthermore, the study highlights socioeconomic and geographical disparities in COVID-19 vaccine coverage, with vulnerable populations facing challenges in accessing vaccination. In conclusion, the pandemic has negatively impacted routine immunization programs in Ecuador; addressing disparities in access is crucial for improving overall vaccination coverage and public health outcomes.
Article
Medicine and Pharmacology
Cardiac and Cardiovascular Systems

Zahraa Alomar,

Meize Guo,

Tyler Bland

Abstract: Medical students face significant challenges retaining complex information, such as interpreting ECGs for coronary artery occlusions, amidst demanding curricula. While artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly used for medical image analysis, this study explored using generative AI (DALLE-3) to create mnemonic-based images to enhance human learning and retention of medical images, in particular electrocardiograms (ECG). We conducted a comparative study with 275 first-year medical students across six campuses; an experimental group (n=40) received a lecture supplemented with AI-generated mnemonic ECG images, while control groups (n=235) received standard lectures with traditional ECG diagrams. Student achievement and retention was assessed by course examinations, and student preference and engagement were measured using the Situational Interest Survey for Multimedia (SIS-M). Control groups showed a significant decline in scores on the relevant exam question over time, whereas the experimental group's scores remained stable, indicating improved long-term retention. Experimental students also reported significantly higher situational interest in the mnemonic-based images over traditional images. AI-generated mnemonic images can effectively improve long-term retention of complex ECG interpretation skills and enhance student engagement and preference, highlighting generative AI's potential as a valuable cognitive tool in medical education of image analysis.
Article
Medicine and Pharmacology
Veterinary Medicine

Roberta Troia,

Claudia Iannucci,

Lisa Niemann,

Alessio Vigani

Abstract: Double filtration plasmapheresis (DFPP) is a plasma exchange modality that allows selective clearance of high molecular weight proteins, potentially minimizing albumin loss and the need for volume replacement. Reports concerning DFPP use in dogs are scarce. This study evaluates the quantitative net loss of different plasma proteins fractions in an ex-vivo model using canine blood processed via DFPP. DFPP treatment with INUSpheresis processing 1.5, 2 and 3 plasma volumes (PV) was performed. Plasma proteins fractions were measured in the reservoir blood bag at baseline (pre-treatment) and in the effluent bag at the end of each target PV exchanged to calculate the net loss of selected plasma proteins. At 1.5 PV, net globulin and albumin loss was 41 and 25% respectively. At 3 PV, net globulin and albumin loss was 47 and 40%, respectively. Fibrinogen concentration were unmeasurable low in the reservoir blood bag after processing 1.5 PV. INUSpheresis allows selective plasma proteins removal, with sparing effect on albumin at 1.5 PV. Selectivity is however progressively reduced with incremental target PV. A description of five DFPP treatments in three dogs is additionally presented. Semi-selective protein removal was demonstrated also in-vivo, with a significantly lower percentage reduction of albumin compared to total globulin (P=0.01) and fibrinogen (P=0.007).
Article
Medicine and Pharmacology
Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine

Jason Parmar,

Saba Javed

Abstract: Background/Objectives This case series investigates the hypothesis that optimizing lead placement for peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) relative to symptomatic areas in chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) enhances pain relief, improves neurological function, and leads to decreased opioid use. Methods We conducted a case series involving four adult patients diagnosed with CIPN, who reported moderate to severe pain (NRS ≥ 4). Patients received PNS with lead placement varying from proximal (L5/S1 nerve roots) to distal (saphenous/popliteal nerves at midthigh). Pain severity was measured using the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) at baseline, 1 month, 2 months, and 3 months post-implantation. Neurological function was assessed using the Treatment Induced Neuropathy Assessment Scale (TNAS) at the same time intervals. A comparative analysis was conducted across different lead placement sites, assessing outcome measures such as pain scores and neurological function scores. Results Two patients receiving distal lead placement experienced significant pain relief, with reductions of 30-40% and 20-30% over three months, while proximal placements yielded only 10% relief. Neurological assessments indicated minimal improvement for two patients, but significant enhancements in tingling, pain, and sleep quality for those with distal placements. Patients with distally placed leads demonstrated a reduced need for opioids compared to those with proximally placed leads. Conclusion This case series suggests that strategically placing PNS leads closer to symptomatic areas improves clinical outcomes in CIPN treatment. These findings provide preliminary evidence supporting the importance of lead placement in PNS efficacy and highlight the need for larger, controlled studies to further validate these results and optimize treatment protocols for CIPN and other neuropathic conditions.
Review
Medicine and Pharmacology
Medicine and Pharmacology

Ana Maria Carmona-Ribeiro,

Ricardo Márcio Silva,

Yunys Pérez-Betancourt

Abstract: Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are bioactive molecules that can effectively destabilize microbes cells. AMPs can reduce the side effects of drugs and other bioactive mole-cules, ensure greater bioavailability of the peptide/bioactive molecule combination, and eventu-ally act synergistically in these combinations. Several AMPs such as linear gramicidins and melittin, which are among the oldest AMPs reported, are considered promising anti-cancer weapons among other applications alone or in combinations. By improving drug bioavailability, targeting, and reducing drug resistance, AMP-based formulations offer a promising avenue for future cancer pharmacology.
Article
Medicine and Pharmacology
Urology and Nephrology

Seon Min Kim,

Sooin Choi,

You Kyoung Lee,

Cheol Wan Lim,

Byung Chul Yu,

Moo Yong Park,

Jin Kuk Kim,

Seng Chan You,

Seo Jeong Shin,

Soo Jeong Choi

Abstract: Background and Objectives: Peritoneal dialysis (PD) requires well-functioning medical de-vices (MDs). PD complications can result in significant adverse events, including discon-tinuation of PD, hospitalization, and death. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of detecting various PD complications and data related to MDs. Materials and Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on patients who received PD catheter insertions between January 2001 and March 2021 to evaluate PD-related compli-cations. PD complications were evaluated through diagnostic, procedural, and MD codes using a common data model (CDM) and compared with those from electronic health rec-ords (EHR). The results from one CDM database were compared with those from another CDM database. Results: A total of 342 patients were enrolled. One hundred ninety-five patients experi-enced PD complications more than once. Nineteen prescription codes and 20 diagnostic codes from the EHR were identified, covering 11 procedures, 3 MDs, and 7 complications related to PD. Infectious complications were detected using the CDM, whereas mechanical complications were missed. Although data on PD catheters and adaptors were available in the EHR, they were not detected by the CDM. Some infectious and mechanical compli-cations were identified by CDM in the other database. After implementing amended matching, these data were detected. Conclusions: While some PD-related medical data recorded in EHR were misrepresented or omitted during the CDM database extract, transform, and load process, the CDM still pro-vides valuable real-world data.
Article
Medicine and Pharmacology
Obstetrics and Gynaecology

Akiha Nakano,

Kohei Uno,

Yusuke Matsui

Abstract: Background: Late-onset preeclampsia (LO-PE) poses substantial risks to maternal–fetal health yet remains more challenging to predict than early-onset preeclampsia (PE), partly due to its stronger association with maternal factors such as obesity and chronic hyper-tension. Methods: We leveraged cell-free RNA (cfRNA) sequencing of maternal plasma in 48 samples—comprising early-onset PE, late-onset PE, and corresponding control groups—to identify LO-PE–specific biomarkers. Differential expression analyses and elastic net regression were used to extract LO-PE gene signatures, with solution paths guiding the selection of the most predictive features. Results: Incorporating these LO-PE signatures into predictive models yielded area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) values of up to 0.88–1.00, surpassing baseline models that plateaued around 0.69. Pathway enrichment indicated that immune and metabolic processes—including Allograft Rejection and Estrogen Response—were strongly implicated, highlighting genes such as HLA-G, IL17RB, and KLRC4 as potential biomarkers. Combining early- and late-onset signatures in a single model introduced performance trade-offs, empha-sizing the fundamental pathophysiological differences between these sub-types.Conclusions: These findings suggest cfRNA-seq–based signatures can substantially enhance LO-PE screening. Nevertheless, larger cohorts and multi-omics integration will be crucial to establish robust, clinically actionable risk stratification.
Article
Medicine and Pharmacology
Neuroscience and Neurology

Nathalia Akemi Neves Kohara,

José Guilherme Pinhatti Carrasco,

Luís Fernando Fernandes Miranda,

Pablo Pompeu Quini,

Elaine Del-Bel Guimarães,

Humberto Milani,

Rúbia Maria Weffort De Oliveira,

Cristiano Correia Bacarin

Abstract: Evidence supporting the clinical use of neuroprotective drugs for cerebral ischemia remains limited. Spatial and temporal disorientation, along with cognitive dysfunction, are among the most prominent long-term consequences of hippocampal neurodegeneration following cerebral ischemia. Cannabigerol (CBG), a non-psychotomimetic constituent of Cannabis sativa, has demonstrated neuroprotective effects in experimental models of cerebral injury. This study investigated the neuroprotective mechanisms of CBG in mitigating memory impairments caused by transient global cerebral ischemia in C57BL/6 mice using the bilateral common carotid artery occlusion (BCCAO) model. Mice underwent sham or BCCAO surgeries and received intraperitoneal (i.p.) injections of either a vehicle or CBG (1, 5, or 10 mg/Kg), starting 1 h post-surgery and continuing daily for 7 days. Spatial memory performance and depression-like behaviors were assessed using the object location test (OLT) and tail suspension test (TST), respectively. Additional analyses examined neuronal degeneration, neuroinflammation, and neuronal plasticity markers in the hippocampus. CBG attenuated ischemia-induced memory deficits, reduced neuronal loss in the hippocampus, and enhanced neuronal plasticity. These findings suggest that CBG’s neuroprotective effects against BCCAO-induced memory impairments may be mediated by reductions in neuroinflammation and modifications in neuroplasticity within the hippocampus.
Article
Medicine and Pharmacology
Cardiac and Cardiovascular Systems

Cassandra Gallant,

Lori Bernard,

Cherise Kwok,

Stephanie Wichuk,

Michelle Noga,

Kumaradevan Punithakumar,

Abhilash Hareendranathan,

Harald Becher,

Brian Buchanan,

Jacob Jaremko

Abstract: Background: Echocardiography is crucial to understanding cardiac function in the In-tensive Care Unit (ICU), often by measuring the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Traditionally measures of LVEF are completed as part of comprehensive ex-amination by an expert sonographer or cardiologist, but front-line practitioners in-creasingly perform focused point-of-care estimates of LVEF while managing life-threatening illness. The two main echocardiographic windows used to grossly es-timate LVEF are parasternal and apical windows. Artificial intelligence (AI) algo-rithms have recently been developed to assist non-experts in obtaining and interpret-ing point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) echo images. We tested the feasibility, accuracy and reliability of novice users estimating LVEF using POCUS-AI echo. Methods: A total of 30 novice users (most never holding an ultrasound probe before) received 2 hours of instruction, then scanned ICU patients (10 patients, 80 scans) using the Exo Iris POCUS probe with AI guidance tool. They were permitted up to 5 minutes at-tempting parasternal long axis (PLAX) and apical 4 chamber (A4C) views. AI-reported LVEF results from these scans were compared to gold-standard LVEF obtained by an expert echo sonographer. To further assess accuracy, this so-nographer also scanned another 65 patients using Exo Iris POCUS-AI vs. conventional protocol. Results: Novices obtained images sufficient to estimate LVEF in 96% of pa-tients in < 5 minutes. Novices obtained PLAX views significantly faster than A4C (1.5 min vs. 2.3 min). Inter-rater reliability of LVEF estimation was very high (ICC 0.88-0.94) whether images were obtained by novices or experts. In n=65 patients, POCUS-AI LVEF was highly specific for a decreased LVEF< 40% (SP=90% for PLAX) but only moderately sensitive (SN=56-70%). Conclusion: Estimating cardiac LVEF from AI-enhanced POCUS is highly feasible even for novices in ICU settings, particu-larly using the PLAX view. POCUS-AI LVEF results were highly consistent whether performed by novice or expert. When AI detected a decreased LVEF, it was highly accurate, although a normal LVEF reported by POCUS-AI was not necessarily reas-suring. This POCUS-AI tool could be clinically useful to rapidly confirm a suspected low LVEF in an ICU patient. Further improvements to sensitivity for low LVEF are needed.
Review
Medicine and Pharmacology
Orthopedics and Sports Medicine

Calogero Cicio,

Gianluca Testa,

Giancarlo Salvo,

Benedetta Liguori,

Andrea Vescio,

Vito Pavone,

Marco Sapienza

Abstract: Proximal femoral fractures (PFFs) are the most frequent bone fractures in elderly people. In Italy, from 2007 to 2017, there were 906,111 hospitalizations for hip fractures. These fractures are expected to reach up to 21.3 million globally by 2050 because of aging. Femoral neck fractures in elderly people are usually treated with protheses. Hemiarthroplasty has been the treatment of choice. However, high-demand patients require total hip replacement. A dual mobility cup is more powerful than total hip arthroplasty or hemiarthroplasty and has less complications. We did a search of the literature about the best choice between a dual mobility cup and hemiarthroplasty in treatment of femur neck fracture. In this literature review, we found many works that show better results in patients treated with dual mobility total hip arthroplasty, compared to hemiarthroplasty. In elderly people femoral neck fractures, dual mobility total hemiarthroplasty should be the solution of choice except for cases with internal or anesthetic problems, which should have a less invasive intervention.
Concept Paper
Medicine and Pharmacology
Psychiatry and Mental Health

Vincenzo Romeo

Abstract: Substance use disorders (SUDs) remain a global public health challenge, with traditional treatment methods often hindered by barriers such as accessibility, stigma, and cost. Telemedicine and online interventions offer promising alternatives to overcome these obstacles. These technologies provide flexible, accessible, and private treatment options that can rival traditional approaches in efficacy. Research indicates that telemedicine achieves comparable outcomes in terms of abstinence rates and treatment retention, while also expanding access to underserved populations. Benefits include reduced stigma, cost-effectiveness, continuous monitoring, and enhanced patient engagement. However, challenges such as technological barriers, regulatory constraints, and maintaining high standards of care must be addressed. Future directions involve integrating telemedicine with traditional care, advancing personalized medicine through data analytics, and fostering policy adaptations to ensure equitable access. Telemedicine thus represents a transformative innovation, with the potential to significantly enhance SUD treatment outcomes globally.

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