Decongestant Effect of "Coldamaris Akut", a Carrageenan- and Sorbitol-Containing Nasal Spray in Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis.

Purpose: This study aimed to develop a hyperosmolar, barrier-forming nasal spray based on carrageenan and sorbitol, and to demonstrate its decongestant effect in the context of allergic rhinitis (AR).

Methods: The efficacy of the nasal spray components was tested in vitro by barrier function, virus replication inhibition, and water absorption assays. The decongestant effectiveness was assessed in a randomized, controlled, crossover environmental chamber trial, where participants with a history of seasonal grass pollen AR were exposed to grass pollen allergens under controlled conditions.

Passive-dynamic ankle-foot orthoses change post-stroke lower extremity constituent work profile.

Stiffness-customized passive-dynamic ankle-foot orthoses (PD-AFOs) have been shown to reduce the mechanical cost of transport (COT) of individuals post-stroke. However, the mechanisms underlying this reduced COT are unknown. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the factors driving COT reduction with PD-AFO use for individuals post-stroke.

Castration Levels of Testosterone Results in Atrophy of Androgen-Sensitive Perineal Muscles: A Potential Biomarker for Male Hypogonadism.

Objective: To evaluate MRI-based measurements of androgen-sensitive perineal/pelvic muscles in men with prostate cancer before and after androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) as a novel imaging marker for end-organ effects of hypogonadism. Diagnosing hypogonadism or testosterone deficiency (TD) requires both low serum testosterone and clinical symptoms, such as erectile dysfunction and reduced libido. However, the non-specific nature of many TD symptoms makes it challenging to initiate therapy.

Predicting post-surgical complications using renal scoring systems.

Current surgical approaches for renal malignancies primarily rely on qualitative factors such as patient preferences, surgeon experience, and hospital capabilities. Applying a quantitative method for consistent and reliable assessment of renal lesions would significantly enhance surgical decision-making and facilitate data comparison. Nephrometry scoring (NS) systems systematically evaluate and describe renal tumors based on their anatomical features.