Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome: Focused Vibrations Plus Kinesiotaping with Insights into Radiological Influences-An Observational Study.

Background: This observational study investigates the efficacy of combining local muscle vibration (LMV) therapy and kinesiotaping using the McConnell method (KMcCM) in patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS). PFPS is a prevalent knee condition characterized by anterior or medial knee pain exacerbated by activities that overload the patellofemoral joint.

Objective: The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of LMV combined with KMcCM in reducing pain and improving function in PFPS patients.

Enhancing Biomedicine: Proteomics and Metabolomics in Action.

The rapid and substantial advancements in proteomic and metabolomic technologies have revolutionized our ability to investigate biological systems [...

Regeneration, Regengrow and Tissue Repair in Animals: Evolution Indicates That No Regeneration Occurs in Terrestrial Environments but Only Recovery Healing.

The present, brief review paper summarizes previous studies on a new interpretation of the presence and absence of regeneration in invertebrates and vertebrates. Broad regeneration is considered exclusive of aquatic or amphibious animals with larval stages and metamorphosis, where also a patterning process is activated for whole-body regeneration or for epimorphosis. In contrast, terrestrial invertebrates and vertebrates can only repair injury or the loss of body parts through a variable "recovery healing" of tissues, regengrow or scarring.

Mesenchymal Traits as an Intrinsic Feature of Undifferentiated Cells.

Since its first conceptualization over a century ago, the mesenchymal phenotype has traditionally been viewed as either a transient phase between successive epithelial stages or as a feature of cell types primarily devoted to structural support. However, recent findings in cancer research challenge this limited view, demonstrating that mesenchymal traits and hybrid mesenchymal/epithelial states can mark cancer cells with stem cell properties. By analyzing publicly available single-cell transcriptome datasets from early embryonic stages and adult tissues, this study aims to extend this concept beyond pathological contexts, suggesting that a partial or fully mesenchymal phenotype may represent the morphological expression of undifferentiated and multipotent states in both the developing embryo and adult organs.

Autoantibodies, Oxidative Stress, and Nutritional State in Anorexia Nervosa.

: Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a complex psychiatric disorder characterized by an extreme fear of gaining weight, leading to severe calorie restriction and weight loss. Beyond its psychiatric challenges, AN has significant physical consequences affecting multiple organ systems. Recent research has increasingly focused on the interplay between autoantibodies, oxidative stress, and nutritional state in this condition.

Healthcare Workers' Attitudes Toward Older Adults' Nutrition: A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study in Italian Nursing Homes.

Malnutrition is a widespread issue among older people, significantly impacting health outcomes. Nutritional interventions can improve health, but their success often depends on the attitudes and knowledge of healthcare workers. This study assesses healthcare workers' attitudes toward older people's nutrition using the validated Italian version of the Staff Attitudes to Nutritional Nursing Geriatric care scale (SANN-G), focusing on staff in nursing homes in Northern Italy.

Comparing the PRISMA-7 and a Modified Version (PRISMA-6) for Frailty Screening: Addressing Sex Bias in Community-Dwelling Older Adults.

Frailty screening facilitates the identification of older adults at risk of adverse health outcomes. The Program of Research to Integrate Services for the Maintenance of Autonomy 7 (PRISMA-7) is a widely utilised frailty tool; however, concerns regarding its potential sex bias persist due to item 2, which assigns a frailty point for male sex. This study compared the PRISMA-7 with a modified version, the PRISMA-6 (excluding item 2), to assess their suitability for frailty screening in South Tyrol, Italy.

Intensive Speech Therapy for Hypokinetic Dysarthria in Parkinson's Disease: Targeting the Five Subsystems of Speech Production with Clinical and Instrumental Evaluation.

: Hypokinetic dysarthria is a speech disorder observed in almost 90% of PD patients that can appear at any stage of the disease, usually worsening as the disease progresses. Today, speech therapy intervention in PD is seen as a possible therapeutic option to alleviate and slow down the progression of symptoms. This study aims to investigate the validity of traditional speech therapy in dysarthria with the aim of improving the quality of life of PD patients, by comparing subjective clinical assessment with objective instrumental measures (IOPI and voice analysis).

Neurodegenerative Disorders in Criminal Offending and Cognitive Decline Among Aging Inmates.

Dementia, including Alzheimer's disease (AD) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD), presents critical challenges for correctional systems, particularly as global populations age. AD, affecting 60-80% of dementia cases, primarily impairs memory and cognition in individuals over 65. In contrast, FTD, rarer than AD but not uncommon in those under 65, affects the frontal and temporal brain regions, leading to deficits in social behavior, language, and impulse control, often resulting in antisocial actions and legal consequences.

Unilateral Versus Bilateral Cochlear Implants in Adults: A Cross-Sectional Questionnaire Study Across Multiple Hearing Domains.

Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the subjective experiences of adults with different cochlear implant (CI) configurations-unilateral cochlear implant (UCI), bilateral cochlear implant (BCI), and bimodal stimulation (BM)-focusing on their perception of speech in quiet and noisy environments, music, environmental sounds, people's voices and tinnitus.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey of 130 adults who had undergone UCI, BCI, or BM was conducted. Participants completed a six-item online questionnaire, assessing difficulty levels and psychological impact across auditory domains, with responses measured on a 10-point scale.

The Tinnitus Handicap Inventory Total Score: What Really Counts? Experience on a Sample of 1156 Patients.

Background: Tinnitus is a frequent symptom, and is present in 10-15% of people who suffer from chronic tinnitus, defined as heard every day for at least 6 months. Among these, 1-2% develop a strong emotive reaction, anxiety, and depression, leading to poor quality of life.

Objectives: to evaluate the comorbidities in tinnitus sufferers.

Predictive Factors for Hearing Loss in Congenital Cytomegalovirus Infection.

Objectives: The present study aims to identify potential predictive factors for developing sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) in individuals with congenital Cytomegalovirus (cCMV) infection.

Methods: A retrospective study was performed on 50 subjects with cCMV infection (symptomatic and asymptomatic), followed at the Audiology Service of Sant'Anna Hospital (University Hospital of Ferrara). The following data were analyzed: the type of maternal Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection (primary versus non-primary), time of in utero infection, systemic signs and symptoms or laboratory test anomalies due to cCMV infection, and signs and symptoms of central nervous system (CNS) involvement at birth.

Endocrine Disrupting Toxicity of Bisphenol A and Its Analogs: Implications in the Neuro-Immune Milieu.

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are natural or synthetic substances that are able to interfere with hormonal systems and alter their physiological signaling. EDCs have been recognized as a public health issue due to their widespread use, environmental persistence and the potential levels of long-term exposure with implications in multiple pathological conditions. Their reported adverse effects pose critical concerns about their use, warranting their strict regulation.

Nanoplastic-Induced Developmental Toxicity in Ascidians: Comparative Analysis of Chorionated and Dechorionated Embryos.

Nanoplastics pose a growing threat to marine ecosystems, particularly affecting the early developmental stages of marine organisms. This study investigates the effects of amino-modified polystyrene nanoparticles (PS-NH, 50 nm) on the embryonic development of , a model ascidian species. Both chorionated and dechorionated embryos were exposed to increasing concentrations of PS-NH so morphological alterations could be assessed with a high-content analysis of the phenotypes and genotoxicity.

Penetration of Microplastics and Nanoparticles Through Skin: Effects of Size, Shape, and Surface Chemistry.

Skin represents an effective barrier against the penetration of external agents into the human body. Nevertheless, recent research has shown that small particles, especially in the nanosized range, can not only penetrate through the skin but also work as vectors to transport active molecules such as contrast agents or drugs. This knowledge has opened new perspectives on nanomedicine and controlled drug delivery.

Simulation of the Long-Term Toxicity Towards Bobwhite Quail () by the Monte Carlo Method.

In this study, models for NOEL (No Observed Effect Level) and NOEC (No Observed Effect Concentration) related to long-term/reproduction toxicity of various organic pesticides are built up, evaluated, and compared with similar models proposed in the literature. The data have been obtained from the EFSA OpenFoodTox database, collecting only data for the Bobwhite quail (. Models have been developed using the CORAL-2023 program, which can be used to develop quantitative structure-property/activity relationships (QSPRs/QSARs) and the Monte Carlo method for the optimization of the model.

Impact of Short-Chain Perfluoropropylene Oxide Acids on Biochemical and Behavioural Parameters in (Savigny, 1826).

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a class of persistent organic pollutants that pose a growing threat to environmental and human health. Soil acts as a long-term reservoir for PFAS, potentially impacting soil biodiversity and ecosystem function. Earthworms, as keystone species in soil ecosystems, are particularly vulnerable to PFAS exposure.

Squamomelanocytic Tumor, An Entity Still Shrouded in Mystery: Case Report and Literature Review.

Cutaneous squamomelanocytic tumor (SMT) is a very rare cutaneous malignancy, composed of a dual phenotypic population of both malignant melanocytes and keratinocytes, intimately intermingled together. Herein, we report a new case of a SMT occurring in an 82-year-old man, located on the scalp. Histopathology revealed a mixed population consisting of squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma within the same lesion, also confirmed using immunohistochemical staining for high molecular-weight cytokeratins (HMWCKs) and Melan-A.

Impact of a Structured Social Skills Training Program on Adolescents and Young Adults with Level 1 Autism.

Background/objectives: Level 1 autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterised by challenges in social and communication skills. Despite these difficulties, individuals with level 1 ASD often exhibit average intelligence and typical language development. Improving socialisation skills in this population requires tailored approaches that address their specific needs and include targeted strategies.

Preliminary Results of Sensorimotor Room Training for the Improvement of Sensory and Motor Skills in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders.

Motor skills in early and middle childhood are essential for physical play, social interactions, and academic development. Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often exhibit atypical sensory responses, which can impact self-care and other developmental areas. This study explores the impact of sensory and motor rehabilitation using a Motor Sensory Room to stimulate motor development in children with ASD.

CiThroModel Improves Prediction of Symptomatic Venous Thromboembolism in Hospitalized Patients With Cirrhosis Without Hepatocellular Carcinoma.

Background & Aims: Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a recognized complication of acutely ill patients, but its incidence and risk factors in those with cirrhosis are uncertain.

Methods: We retrospectively studied a consecutive cohort of cirrhosis patients non-electively admitted to our medical unit to determine the rates of symptomatic VTE during hospitalization. Firstly, we explored associations with baseline, clinical and laboratory characteristics using logistic regression.

A cross-sectional survey of psychiatrists' experiences of using telepsychiatry during the COVID-19 pandemic and the relationship with burnout in selected high, middle, and low-income countries.

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated substantial modifications in the delivery of patient care on a global scale. Telemedicine-based care services were implemented worldwide to maximize access to healthcare systems.

Aims: This study aimed to investigate the use of and satisfaction with telepsychiatry services implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic by psychiatrists across low, middle, and high income countries, and to assess levels of burnout among psychiatrists providing telepsychiatry services in different settings and countries.

An update on promising and emerging protein kinase B/AKT inhibitors for breast cancer.

Introduction: . The PI3K pathway is crucial in breast cancer (BC), influencing cell survival, growth, and metabolism, with AKT playing a central role in treatment resistance. This pathway's involvement in breast carcinogenesis and its link to treatment resistance underscores the significance of targeting it in BC therapy.

Tumour-Associated Macrophages in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma.

Objective: Tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs) are crucial in the progression and treatment response of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). TAMs infiltrate OSCC, adopting an M2-like phenotype that promotes tumour growth, metastasis and immune suppression. The current narrative review explored the roles of TAMs in OSCC, focusing on their impact on the tumour microenvironment, invasion, metastasis, angiogenesis, immunosuppression and potential therapeutic targeting.