Journal Description
Journal of Personalized Medicine
Journal of Personalized Medicine
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on personalized medicine, published monthly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, PMC, Embase, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Medicine, General & Internal) CiteScore - Q2 (Medicine (miscellaneous))
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 17.8 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.6 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor:
3.4 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
3.5 (2022)
Latest Articles
Therapeutic Effects of Engineered Exosomes from RAW264.7 Cells Overexpressing hsa-let-7i-5p against Sepsis in Mice—A Comparative Study with Human Placenta-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cell Exosomes
J. Pers. Med. 2024, 14(6), 619; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm14060619 (registering DOI) - 9 Jun 2024
Abstract
This study compared the therapeutic effects of engineered exosomes derived from RAW264.7 cells overexpressing hsa-let-7i-5p (engineered exosomes) to exosomes from human placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hpMSC exosomes) against sepsis-induced acute lung injury. Adult male C57BL/6 mice were divided into lipopolysaccharide (LPS), LPS plus
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This study compared the therapeutic effects of engineered exosomes derived from RAW264.7 cells overexpressing hsa-let-7i-5p (engineered exosomes) to exosomes from human placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hpMSC exosomes) against sepsis-induced acute lung injury. Adult male C57BL/6 mice were divided into lipopolysaccharide (LPS), LPS plus engineered exosome (LEExo), or LPS plus hpMSC exosome (LMExo) groups, alongside control groups. The results showed that lung injury scores (based on pathohistological characteristics) and the levels of lung function alterations, tissue edema, and leukocyte infiltration in LEExo and LMExo groups were comparable and significantly lower than in the LPS group (all p < 0.05). Furthermore, the levels of inflammation (nuclear factor-κB activation, cytokine upregulation), macrophage activation (hypoxia-inducible factor-1α activation, M1 phase polarization), oxidation, and apoptosis were diminished in LEExo and LMExo groups compared to the LPS group (all p < 0.05). Inhibition of hsa-let-7i-5p attenuated the therapeutic effects of both engineered and hpMSC exosomes. These findings underscore the potent therapeutic capacity of engineered exosomes enriched with hsa-let-7i-5p and their potential as an alternative to hpMSC exosomes for sepsis treatment. Continued research into the mechanisms of action and optimization of engineered exosomes could pave the way for their future clinical application.
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(This article belongs to the Section Personalized Critical Care)
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Sleep Apnea and Atrial Fibrillation: Clinical Features and Screening Diagnostic Options
by
Azamat Maratovich Baymukanov, Yuliya Dmitrievna Weissman, Irina Andreevna Bulavina, Ilya Leonidovich Ilyich and Sergey Arturovich Termosesov
J. Pers. Med. 2024, 14(6), 618; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm14060618 (registering DOI) - 9 Jun 2024
Abstract
Introduction: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is associated with an increased risk of hypertension, coronary artery disease, heart failure (HF), and atrial fibrillation (AF). Materials and methods: A total of 179 patients aged 34–81 years were included in the study. The median age was
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Introduction: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is associated with an increased risk of hypertension, coronary artery disease, heart failure (HF), and atrial fibrillation (AF). Materials and methods: A total of 179 patients aged 34–81 years were included in the study. The median age was 63 years (interquartile range: 56–69 years). Of these patients, 105 (58.7%) were men, and 74 (41.3%) were women; there were cases of paroxysmal (n = 99), persistent (n = 64), and permanent AF (n = 16). All patients underwent investigations including respiratory sleep monitoring, echocardiography, and 24 h Holter electrocardiography monitoring. Statistical analyses were performed using IBM SPSS Statistics 26.0. Results: OSA was detected in 131 (73.2%) patients. In patients with OSA, paroxysmal AF was commonest (n = 65), followed by persistent AF (n = 51) and permanent AF (n = 15). The patients with sleep apnea had increased body mass index (33.6 kg/m2; p = 0.02), waist circumference (114 cm; p < 0.001), and neck circumference (42 cm; p < 0.001) values. HF (OR 2.9; 95% CI: 1.4–5.9; p = 0.004) and type 2 diabetes (OR 3.6; 95% CI: 1.5–8.3; p = 0.001) were more common in patients with AF and OSA. The STOP-BANG scale (AUC = 0.706 ± 0.044; 95% CI: 0.619–0.792; p < 0.001) and the Berlin questionnaire (AUC = 0.699 ± 0.044; 95% CI: 0.614–0.785) had a higher predictive ability for identifying sleep apnea. Conclusions: Patients with AF demonstrate a high prevalence of OSA and an increased association with cardiovascular comorbidities. The STOP-BANG scale and the Berlin questionnaire can be used to screen for OSA in patients with AF.
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(This article belongs to the Section Clinical Medicine, Cell, and Organism Physiology)
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Open AccessArticle
Local Perineal Capillary Perforator Flaps: A Minimally Invasive Technique for the Correction of Vulvar Stenosis
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Anna Amelia Caretto, Giorgia Garganese, Simona Maria Fragomeni, Luca Tagliaferri, Bruno Fionda, Giovanni Scambia and Stefano Gentileschi
J. Pers. Med. 2024, 14(6), 617; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm14060617 (registering DOI) - 8 Jun 2024
Abstract
Background: Vulvar stenosis is a debilitating condition that compromises sexual function, urination, and the ability to undergo gynecological examinations. The purpose of this study is to describe the technique of capillary perforator perineal flaps (CPPF) for the correction of vulvar stenosis. Methods: We
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Background: Vulvar stenosis is a debilitating condition that compromises sexual function, urination, and the ability to undergo gynecological examinations. The purpose of this study is to describe the technique of capillary perforator perineal flaps (CPPF) for the correction of vulvar stenosis. Methods: We retrospectively examined patients with vulvar stenosis treated through surgical separation and reconstruction with CPPF. The procedure involved vulvar separation with the creation of a subsequent defect, repaired using a flap, harvested laterally to the labia majora including a capillary perforator and transferred through a subcutaneous tunnel to repair the vulvar defect. The functional outcome was evaluated with the Bradford scale, comparing the preoperative and postoperative scores using the Student’s t-test. Results: thirteen patients were included, three with stenosis following treatment for vulvar cancer and ten due to lichen sclerosus. In total, we analyzed 29 flaps, with an average size of 15.6 cm2. We always included just one perforator in the flap and no postoperative complications. Stenosis was resolved in all patients, with no recurrences one year after the surgery. The preoperative average severity of the stenosis was 2.3 + 0.6, reducing to 0.3 + 0.4 post-intervention, indicating a significant improvement (p < 0.01). Conclusions: CPPF has proven to be a quick and safe method for the reconstruction of vulvar stenosis.
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(This article belongs to the Section Sex, Gender and Hormone Based Medicine)
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Open AccessArticle
Characteristics of Patients with Sarcoidosis with Emphasis on Acute vs. Chronic Forms—A Single Center Experience
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Mihailo Stjepanovic, Nikola Maric, Slobodan Belic, Jelena Milin-Lazovic, Natasa Djurdjevic, Jelena Jankovic, Masa Petrovic, Jovan Peric, Ivan Tulic, Jelena Cvejic, Spasoje Popevic, Sanja Dimic Janjic and Violeta Mihailovic Vucinic
J. Pers. Med. 2024, 14(6), 616; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm14060616 (registering DOI) - 8 Jun 2024
Abstract
Sarcoidosis is a granulomatous disease of unknown etiology that can affect almost any organ. Although the acute form can have spontaneous regression, a certain number of patients can have a chronic form, which leads to an increase in mortality and a decrease in
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Sarcoidosis is a granulomatous disease of unknown etiology that can affect almost any organ. Although the acute form can have spontaneous regression, a certain number of patients can have a chronic form, which leads to an increase in mortality and a decrease in the quality of life. Considering that the risk factors are still unknown, we wanted to compare the characteristics of patients with acute and chronic forms of sarcoidosis in Serbia in order to determine significant differences between them with hopes of contributing to everyday clinical practice. A total of 2380 patients treated in our clinic were enrolled in this study. They were separated into the following two groups: 1126 patients with acute form and 1254 patients with chronic form. They were further compared by gender, smoking status, radiological status, exposition, biomarkers for sarcoidosis, organ involvement, and other comorbidities; the distribution of patients according to regions of Serbia was also noted. Statistical significance was found in radiological findings (p < 0.001), biomarkers (calcium in 24 h urine p < 0.001; chitotriosidase p = 0.001), and the affliction of organs (p < 0.001). The differences noted in this paper could help improve our understanding of this disease.
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(This article belongs to the Section Clinical Medicine, Cell, and Organism Physiology)
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Open AccessArticle
The Relationship between Seropositive Rheumatoid Arthritis and Congestive Heart Failure: A Nationwide Longitudinal Cohort Study in Korea
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Yeo Song Kim, Je Beom Hong, Hakyung Kim, Seung Hun Sheen, In-bo Han, Jeong Gyun Kim, Sin Soo Jeun and Seil Sohn
J. Pers. Med. 2024, 14(6), 615; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm14060615 (registering DOI) - 8 Jun 2024
Abstract
Objectives: The aim of this nationwide longitudinal cohort study is to determine the risk of congestive heart failure (CHF) associated with a seropositive rheumatoid arthritis (RA) population in Korea. Methods: In this study, National Health Insurance Service-Health Screening Cohort (NHIS-HEALS) data from 2002
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Objectives: The aim of this nationwide longitudinal cohort study is to determine the risk of congestive heart failure (CHF) associated with a seropositive rheumatoid arthritis (RA) population in Korea. Methods: In this study, National Health Insurance Service-Health Screening Cohort (NHIS-HEALS) data from 2002 to 2003 were used. The cohort was followed up with for 12 years until December of 2015. Seropositive RA was defined as a patient prescribed with a disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug (DMARD) among patients with the International Classification of Diseases code M05 (seropositive RA). Patients who were diagnosed before 2004 were excluded. The seropositive RA group consisted of 2765 patients, and a total of 13,825 patients were in the control group. The Kaplan–Meier method was used to calculate the 12-year CHF incidence rate for each group. A Cox proportional hazards regression analysis was used to estimate the hazard ratio of CHF. Results: The hazard ratio of CHF in the seropositive RA group was 2.41 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.40–4.14) after adjusting for age and sex. The adjusted hazard ratio of CHF in the seropositive RA group was 2.50 (95% CI: 1.45–4.30) after adjusting for age, sex, income, and comorbidities. In females aged ≥65 and aged <65, the incidence rates in the non-hypertension, non-diabetes mellitus, and non-dyslipidemia subgroups were significantly higher in the seropositive RA group than in the control group. Conclusions: This nationwide longitudinal cohort study shows an increased risk of CHF in patients with seropositive RA.
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(This article belongs to the Section Epidemiology)
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The Relationship between Sense of Presence, Emotional Response, and Clinical Outcomes in Virtual Reality-Based Therapy for Treatment-Resistant Schizophrenia: An Exploratory Correlational Study
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Elischa Augustin, Mélissa Beaudoin, Sabrina Giguère, Hind Ziady, Kingsada Phraxayavong and Alexandre Dumais
J. Pers. Med. 2024, 14(6), 614; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm14060614 (registering DOI) - 8 Jun 2024
Abstract
Avatar therapy (AT) is a novel virtual reality-based psychotherapy that has been developed to treat auditory verbal hallucinations (AVH) in treatment-resistant schizophrenia. Various psychotherapeutic components, such as emotions and sense of presence, could contribute to clinical outcomes. However, the interplay between sense of
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Avatar therapy (AT) is a novel virtual reality-based psychotherapy that has been developed to treat auditory verbal hallucinations (AVH) in treatment-resistant schizophrenia. Various psychotherapeutic components, such as emotions and sense of presence, could contribute to clinical outcomes. However, the interplay between sense of presence, emotions, and clinical response has seldom been investigated. This study aimed to explore the relations between sense of presence, emotions, and clinical outcomes in AT. To conduct this investigation, data from previous and ongoing AT trials were used. Sense of presence and emotions were assessed using standardized questionnaires. AVH were evaluated using the Psychotic Symptom Rating Scales. While sense of presence was positively associated with positive emotions such as control and serenity, no significant associations were found for negative emotions. Moreover, a higher level of sense of presence was associated with a bigger decrease in AVH. Overall, positive emotions seem to be associated with sense of presence in AT. Sense of presence also seems to be involved in the therapeutic outcome, thereby suggesting that this could be an important component related to clinical response. More studies are needed to confirm these trends, which could be generalized to other virtual reality-based psychotherapies.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Psychiatry: Emerging Clinical Research in Personalized Medicine)
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Open AccessArticle
Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) with Small Beads for the Treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
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Genti Xhepa, Lucilla Violetta Sciacqua, Andrea Vanzulli, Andrea Enzo Canì, Velio Ascenti, Alexis Ricoeur, Andrea Antonio Ianniello, Agostino Inzerillo, Paolo Nicotera, Filippo Del Grande, Anna Maria Ierardi and Gianpaolo Carrafiello
J. Pers. Med. 2024, 14(6), 613; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm14060613 (registering DOI) - 8 Jun 2024
Abstract
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is the most frequent cause of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTSs) in elderly populations. Minimally invasive treatments of BPH are safe and effective and are gaining popularity among both professionals and patients. Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) has proven to
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Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is the most frequent cause of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTSs) in elderly populations. Minimally invasive treatments of BPH are safe and effective and are gaining popularity among both professionals and patients. Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) has proven to be effective in Trans-Urethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) in terms of prostate volume reduction and LUTS relief. PAE entails the selective catheterization of the prostatic artery and later embolization of distal vessels with beads of various calibers. Universal consensus regarding the ideal particle size is yet to be defined. We retrospectively evaluated 24 consecutive patients (median age: 75 years; range: 59–86 years) treated with PAE at our institution from October 2015 to November 2022. Particles of different sizes were employed; 12 patients were treated with 40–120 µm particles, 5 with 100 µm, 5 with 100–300 µm and 2 with 250 µm. Technical success, defined as selective prostate artery catheterization and controlled release of embolizing beads, was achieved in all patients. Removal vs. retention of the urinary catheter at the first post-procedural urological visit was the main clinical objective. No major peri-procedural complications were recorded, with 56% of patients successfully removing the urinary catheter.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Interventional Radiology: Towards Personalized Medicine)
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Open AccessArticle
Comparative Analysis of Large Language Models in Emergency Plastic Surgery Decision-Making: The Role of Physical Exam Data
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Sahar Borna, Cesar A. Gomez-Cabello, Sophia M. Pressman, Syed Ali Haider and Antonio Jorge Forte
J. Pers. Med. 2024, 14(6), 612; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm14060612 (registering DOI) - 8 Jun 2024
Abstract
In the U.S., diagnostic errors are common across various healthcare settings due to factors like complex procedures and multiple healthcare providers, often exacerbated by inadequate initial evaluations. This study explores the role of Large Language Models (LLMs), specifically OpenAI’s ChatGPT-4 and Google Gemini,
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In the U.S., diagnostic errors are common across various healthcare settings due to factors like complex procedures and multiple healthcare providers, often exacerbated by inadequate initial evaluations. This study explores the role of Large Language Models (LLMs), specifically OpenAI’s ChatGPT-4 and Google Gemini, in improving emergency decision-making in plastic and reconstructive surgery by evaluating their effectiveness both with and without physical examination data. Thirty medical vignettes covering emergency conditions such as fractures and nerve injuries were used to assess the diagnostic and management responses of the models. These responses were evaluated by medical professionals against established clinical guidelines, using statistical analyses including the Wilcoxon rank-sum test. Results showed that ChatGPT-4 consistently outperformed Gemini in both diagnosis and management, irrespective of the presence of physical examination data, though no significant differences were noted within each model’s performance across different data scenarios. Conclusively, while ChatGPT-4 demonstrates superior accuracy and management capabilities, the addition of physical examination data, though enhancing response detail, did not significantly surpass traditional medical resources. This underscores the utility of AI in supporting clinical decision-making, particularly in scenarios with limited data, suggesting its role as a complement to, rather than a replacement for, comprehensive clinical evaluation and expertise.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Artificial Intelligence for Personalized Medicine: Bridging Innovative Technologies and Patient-Centric Care)
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Oncologic and Obstetric Outcomes Following Radical Abdominal Trachelectomy in Non-Low-Risk Early-Stage Cervical Cancers: A 10-Year Austrian Single-Center Experience
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Melina Danisch, Marlene Kranawetter, Thomas Bartl, Magdalena Postl, Christoph Grimm, Eva Langthaler and Stephan Polterauer
J. Pers. Med. 2024, 14(6), 611; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm14060611 (registering DOI) - 8 Jun 2024
Abstract
Radical trachelectomy allows for fertility preservation in patients with early cervical cancer not qualifying as “low-risk” as defined by ConCerv. This study reports on the 10-year surgical, oncological, and obstetrical experience of patients treated by radical abdominal trachelectomy at an Austrian tertiary care
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Radical trachelectomy allows for fertility preservation in patients with early cervical cancer not qualifying as “low-risk” as defined by ConCerv. This study reports on the 10-year surgical, oncological, and obstetrical experience of patients treated by radical abdominal trachelectomy at an Austrian tertiary care center. A retrospective chart analysis and telephone survey of all patients with FIGO stage IA2-IB2 (2018) cervical cancer treated by radical abdominal trachelectomy and pelvic lymphadenectomy between 2013 and 2022 were performed. Radical abdominal trachelectomy was attempted in 29 patients, of whom 3 patients underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Three cases, including one after neoadjuvant therapy, required conversion to radical hysterectomy due to positive margins; four cases had positive lymph nodes following surgical staging and were referred to primary chemo-radiotherapy. Twenty-two (75.9%) successful abdominal radical trachelectomies preserving fertility were performed. According to final histopathology, 79.3% of tumors would not have met the “low-risk”-criteria. At a median follow-up of 64.5 (25.5–104.0) months, no recurrence was observed. Eight (36.4%) patients attempted to conceive, with a live birth rate of 62.5%. Radical abdominal trachelectomy appears oncologically safe in early-stage cervical cancers that do not fulfill the “low-risk”-criteria. Strict preoperative selection of patients who might qualify for more conservative surgical approaches is strongly recommended.
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(This article belongs to the Section Mechanisms of Diseases)
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Open AccessArticle
Association between Height and Functional Outcomes of Patients 6 Months after a Stroke: A Multicenter Prospective Observational Cohort Study
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Nae Yoon Kang, Sung-Hwa Ko, Yong-Il Shin, Ji Hong Min, Mi Sook Yun, Min Kyun Sohn, Jongmin Lee, Deog Young Kim, Gyung-Jae Oh, Yang Soo Lee, Min Cheol Joo, So Young Lee, Min-Keun Song, Junhee Han, Jeonghoon Ahn, Yun-Hee Kim and Won Hyuk Chang
J. Pers. Med. 2024, 14(6), 610; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm14060610 - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
Many physical factors influence post-stroke functional outcomes. However, few studies have examined the influence of height on these outcomes. Here, data from the Korean Stroke Cohort for Functioning and Rehabilitation were used and patients’ height was categorized into three groups: short (lower 25%),
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Many physical factors influence post-stroke functional outcomes. However, few studies have examined the influence of height on these outcomes. Here, data from the Korean Stroke Cohort for Functioning and Rehabilitation were used and patients’ height was categorized into three groups: short (lower 25%), middle (middle 50%), and tall (upper 25%). Differences in the modified Rankin scale (mRS), functional ambulatory category (FAC), and Korean-translated version of the Modified Barthel Index (K-MBI) scores were analyzed for each group at 6 months post-stroke. A subgroup analysis was conducted based on the initial Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA) score. We analyzed functional outcomes in 5296 patients at 6 months post-stroke, adjusting for age and body mass index. The short-height group exhibited higher mRS scores (1.88 ± 0.043), lower FAC scores (3.74 ± 0.045), and lower K-MBI scores (82.83 ± 0.748) than the other height groups (p < 0.05). In the subgroup analysis, except for the very severe FMA group, the short-height group also exhibited worse outcomes in terms of mRS, FAC, and K-MBI scores (p < 0.05). Taken together, the short-height group exhibited worse outcomes related to disability, gait function, and ADLs at 6 months post-stroke.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stroke Management—Personalized Diagnostic, Therapy and Rehabilitation)
Open AccessArticle
Clinical Factors Associated with Binge-Eating Episodes or Purging Behaviors in Patients Affected by Eating Disorders: A Cross-Sectional Study
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Alice Caldiroli, Letizia Maria Affaticati, Sara Coloccini, Francesca Manzo, Alberto Scalia, Enrico Capuzzi, Davide La Tegola, Fabrizia Colmegna, Antonios Dakanalis, Maria Salvina Signorelli, Massimiliano Buoli and Massimo Clerici
J. Pers. Med. 2024, 14(6), 609; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm14060609 - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to investigate the potential associations between clinical/socio-demographic variables and the presence of purging/binge-eating episodes in eating disorders (EDs). Clinical/socio-demographic variables and psychometric scores were collected. Groups of patients were identified according to the presence or absence
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The aim of the present study was to investigate the potential associations between clinical/socio-demographic variables and the presence of purging/binge-eating episodes in eating disorders (EDs). Clinical/socio-demographic variables and psychometric scores were collected. Groups of patients were identified according to the presence or absence of purging or objective binge-eating episodes (OBEs) and compared through t-test and chi-square tests. Binary logistic regression analyses were run. A sample of 51 ED outpatients was recruited. Patients with purging behaviors had a longer duration of untreated illness (DUI) (t = 1.672; p = 0.019) and smoked a higher number of cigarettes/day (t = 1.061; p = 0.030) compared to their counterparts. A lower BMI was associated with purging (OR = 0.881; p = 0.035), and an older age at onset showed a trend towards statistical significance (OR = 1.153; p = 0.061). Patients with OBEs, compared to their counterparts, were older (t = 0.095; p < 0.001), more frequently presented a diagnosis of bulimia or binge-eating disorder (χ2 = 26.693; p < 0.001), a longer duration of illness (t = 2.162; p = 0.019), a higher number of hospitalizations (t = 1.301; p = 0.012), and more often received a prescription for pharmacological treatment (χ2 = 7.864; OR = 6.000; p = 0.005). A longer duration of the last pharmacological treatment was associated with OBE (OR = 1.569; p = 0.046). In contrast to purging, OBE was associated with a more complicated and severe presentation of ED. A lower BMI and a later age at onset, as well as long-lasting previous pharmacological treatments, may predict the presence of purging/binging. Further research is needed to thoroughly characterize ED features and corroborate our preliminary findings.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Disease Biomarker)
Open AccessEditorial
The Promise of Personalized Peripheral Nerve Surgery
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Konstantin Davide Bergmeister and Leila Harhaus
J. Pers. Med. 2024, 14(6), 608; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm14060608 - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
In peripheral nerve surgery, neuropathology and neural anatomy intersect with the complexities of injury and dysfunction [...]
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnosis and Treatment in Peripheral Nerve Surgery)
Open AccessArticle
Evaluation of a New Multiparametric Microdot Array-Based Immunoassay Panel for Systemic Autoimmune Disease Diagnosis
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Maria Infantino, Francesca Pavia, Valentina Grossi, Barbara Lari, Maurizio Benucci, Francesca Li Gobbi, Silvia Pancani and Mariangela Manfredi
J. Pers. Med. 2024, 14(6), 607; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm14060607 - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
Background: The early reliable detection and quantification of autoantibodies play an important role in autoimmune disease diagnosis and in disease-course monitoring. New technologies, such as the multiplexed determination of autoantibodies, have recently been introduced and are being adopted more frequently. The aim of
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Background: The early reliable detection and quantification of autoantibodies play an important role in autoimmune disease diagnosis and in disease-course monitoring. New technologies, such as the multiplexed determination of autoantibodies, have recently been introduced and are being adopted more frequently. The aim of this study was to evaluate the ability of a new microdot array-based multiparametric assay (ZENIT AMiDot CTD panel, A. Menarini Diagnostics, Firenze, Italy) to correctly classify patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases (ARDs) and compare it to a fluorescence enzyme immunoassay (FEIA) for the detection of anti-ENAs. Methods: The study included 69 consecutive samples from patients with ARDs that were analyzed using two different methods (FEIA and AMiDot) to detect anti-CENP B and six anti-ENA antibodies: anti-Scl-70, anti-SSB/La, anti-Jo-1, anti-U1-RNP, anti-Ro52, and anti-Ro60. The control group sera came from sixty-eight blood donors. Tests were run on the automated slide processor ZENIT FLOW, and then the slides were imaged and analyzed using ZENIT fast. Results: Since the samples were selected for at least one antibody positivity with an ARD diagnosis, we did not calculate clinical sensitivity but only specificity, which was 98.53%, ranging from 90% for anti-SSB/La antibodies to 100% for anti-CENP B ones. Mean agreement among the methods assessed by Cohen’s kappa was 0.816 ± 0.240. Conclusions: The assay demonstrated good clinical performance and may be considered a valuable aid in detecting ARD patients, offering an alternative to methods such as FEIA which are largely in use today.
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(This article belongs to the Section Methodology, Drug and Device Discovery)
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Open AccessReview
Controversies and Advances in the Personalized Surgical Treatment of Cervical Cancer
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Vasilios Pergialiotis, Ioannis Rodolakis, Alexandros Rodolakis and Nikolaos Thomakos
J. Pers. Med. 2024, 14(6), 606; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm14060606 - 6 Jun 2024
Abstract
Cervical cancer represents a global health issue as it is mostly encountered in women of reproductive age, while at the same time, survival outcomes seem to have remained constant during the last two decades. The need to implement fertility-sparing strategies as well as
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Cervical cancer represents a global health issue as it is mostly encountered in women of reproductive age, while at the same time, survival outcomes seem to have remained constant during the last two decades. The need to implement fertility-sparing strategies as well as to decrease the morbidity that accompanies radical treatment has been extensively studied. During the last decade, several randomized clinical trials have been released, resulting in significant advances in the surgical treatment of early-stage disease. At the same time, evidence about the surgical treatment of advanced-stage disease as well as recurrent disease has gradually appeared and seems to be promising, thus leading the point forward towards personalized medicine that will remove the surgical barriers that seem concrete in our era. Nevertheless, the discrepancies in perioperative morbidity and survival outcomes that were observed among published studies raise several questions. In the present article, we chose to review the gray fields in the surgical treatment of early-stage and advanced-stage cervical cancer. Studies that are based on strong evidence that support current clinical practice are compared to smaller cohorts that present novel data that may form the basis for future research, and issues that remain poorly explored are discussed in an effort to help establish a consensus for future research development.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Personalized Surgical Oncology)
Open AccessArticle
Incidence of Late-Onset Psoriasis Following Tonsillectomy: A Longitudinal Follow-Up Study Using a National Health Screening Cohort
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Sung Joon Park, Hahn Jin Jung, Min Woo Park, Hyo Geun Choi, Heejin Kim and Jee Hye Wee
J. Pers. Med. 2024, 14(6), 605; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm14060605 - 6 Jun 2024
Abstract
Tonsillectomy has been suggested as a potential intervention to resolve psoriasis; however, its preventive effects on the development of psoriasis remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the risk of developing late-onset psoriasis among a Korean adult population who had undergone tonsillectomy. Data
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Tonsillectomy has been suggested as a potential intervention to resolve psoriasis; however, its preventive effects on the development of psoriasis remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the risk of developing late-onset psoriasis among a Korean adult population who had undergone tonsillectomy. Data from the Korean National Health Insurance Service-Health Screening Cohort between 2002 and 2019 were utilized. Out of a total of 514,866 participants, 1082 participants aged 40 years or older who had undergone tonsillectomy were matched with 4328 control participants using overlap weighting adjustment based on the propensity score. The incidence and hazard ratio (HR) of psoriasis were calculated for both tonsillectomy and control groups. The incidence rates of psoriasis were 1.30% in the tonsillectomy group and 1.20% in the control group. The incidence of psoriasis (overlap-weighted HR = 1.08, 95% confidence of interval = 0.69–1.69, and p = 0.732) did not differ significantly between the patients who underwent tonsillectomy and those in the control group. The cumulative probability of developing psoriasis was not different between the two groups (Log-rank test: p = 0.440). These findings were consistent across subgroups divided by age, sex, income, and region of residence. We found that tonsillectomy did not confer a preventive effect on the development of late-onset psoriasis in the Korean adult population.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Epidemiology)
Open AccessArticle
Role of Autologous Micro-Fragmented Adipose Tissue in Osteoarthritis Treatment
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Paolo Trentani, Elena Meredi, Paola Zarantonello and Alessandro Gennai
J. Pers. Med. 2024, 14(6), 604; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm14060604 - 6 Jun 2024
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common complex musculoskeletal disorder, resulting from the degeneration of the articular cartilage and characterized by joint pain and dysfunction that culminate in progressive articular cartilage loss. We present our experience in the management of hip and knee OA
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Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common complex musculoskeletal disorder, resulting from the degeneration of the articular cartilage and characterized by joint pain and dysfunction that culminate in progressive articular cartilage loss. We present our experience in the management of hip and knee OA by means of the intra-articular injection of fat micrograft, describing our approach, which was developed from the belief in the powerful reparative effect of autologous fat graft on damaged tissue, as well as its natural lubricating effect on the joints. Inclusion criteria were as follows: men and women, aged 20 to 80 years, that referred articular pain of the hips and/or knees, showing initial-stage degenerative OA. From October 2018 to July 2023, a total of 250 patients underwent treatment with the Sefficare® device (SEFFILINE srl, Bologna, Italy). The Superficial Enhanced Fluid Fat Injection device was used to perform autologous regenerative treatments in a safe, standardized, easy, and effective way on 160 women, 64%, and 90 men, 36%. A total of 190 procedures (76%) involved the knees, with 20 patients who were bilaterally treated, while 60 procedures, all unilateral, involved the hips (24%). The mean age at treatment was 52.4 years. Before treatment, each patient had undergone X-rays and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the painful hip/knee to evaluate and grade the articular OA. Postoperatively, each patient was assessed after one, three, six, and twelve months. The donor site postoperative course was uneventful other than minimal discomfort. Clinically, the ROM (range of motion) of the treated knee/hip increased an average of 10 degrees 3 months after treatment, but the stiffness was reduced, as reported by the patients. The VAS (Visual Analog Scale) was submitted at 3, 6, and 12 months, demonstrating a progressive reduction of pain, with the best score obtained at six months postoperatively. In total, 85% of patients were satisfied one year after treatment, with a considerable improvement in pain and quality of life. The satisfactory outcome of this minimally invasive procedure indicates that the intra-articular injection of fat micrograft can replace or considerably delay the need for the classical major joint replacement surgery, thanks to its impact on the quality of life of patients and financial cost.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Diagnosis, Management, and Prognostic Assessment of Chronic Disease)
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Open AccessCase Report
Neurophysiological and Ultrasound Correlations in Guillain Barré Syndrome and CIDP—Case Series
by
Justyna Pigońska, Walkowiak Paweł and Marta Banach
J. Pers. Med. 2024, 14(6), 603; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm14060603 - 5 Jun 2024
Abstract
Introduction: Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS) and chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) are inflammatory polyneuropathies with an autoimmune etiology. These diseases differ mainly in the timing of their course but also in certain clinical differences. Electroneurography and electromyography are crucial for fulfilling the primary (for
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Introduction: Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS) and chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) are inflammatory polyneuropathies with an autoimmune etiology. These diseases differ mainly in the timing of their course but also in certain clinical differences. Electroneurography and electromyography are crucial for fulfilling the primary (for CIDP) and secondary (for GBS) diagnostic criteria. High-resolution ultrasound (HRUS) is recognized as a complementary method in the diagnosis of CIDP and GBS. Aim: The aim of this study was to present the neurophysiological and ultrasound findings of patients with clinically diagnosed inflammatory neuropathies (GBS and CIDP). Material and Methods: We collected data from clinically confirmed patients with GBS (3 persons) and CIDP (6 persons). The neurography and high-resolution ultrasound examinations according to the UPSS scale were performed. Results: The neurography tests of GBS and CIDP patients showed mainly demyelinating lesions of the examined nerves, often with abnormal F-wave recordings. Examination using HRUS in GBS patients showed mild and regional nerve swelling with hypoechoic bundles with a predilection for proximal segments and cervical spinal nerve roots. In contrast, CIDP patients had diffused nerve swelling with hypoechoic bundles of greater severity and extent than those with GBS. Conclusion: Neurophysiological tests and HRUS of peripheral nerves, plexi, and roots performed together can be very valuable, complementary diagnostic methods for the early diagnosis and effective treatment of inflammatory polyneuropathies.
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(This article belongs to the Section Clinical Medicine, Cell, and Organism Physiology)
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Symptom Clusters in Acute SARS-CoV-2 Infection and Long COVID Fatigue in Male and Female Outpatients
by
Vincenza Leone, Dennis Freuer, Yvonne Goßlau, Inge Kirchberger, Tobias Warm, Alexander Hyhlik-Dürr, Christine Meisinger and Jakob Linseisen
J. Pers. Med. 2024, 14(6), 602; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm14060602 - 5 Jun 2024
Abstract
(1) Background: After an acute SARS-CoV-2 infection, patients are at risk of developing Long COVID, with fatigue as a frequent and serious health problem. Objectives: To identify symptom clusters in acute SARS-CoV-2 infections and investigate their associations with the development of Long COVID
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(1) Background: After an acute SARS-CoV-2 infection, patients are at risk of developing Long COVID, with fatigue as a frequent and serious health problem. Objectives: To identify symptom clusters in acute SARS-CoV-2 infections and investigate their associations with the development of Long COVID fatigue, and to examine sex-specific differences. (2) Methods: The analysis included a total of 450 COVID-19 outpatients, of whom 54.4% were female. The median ages of the men and women were 51 years (IQR 36.0; 60.0) and 48 years (IQR 33.0; 57.0), respectively. Data collection took place between November 2020 and May 2021, with a median time between acute SARS-CoV-2 infection and examination in the study center of 240 days (IQR 133; 326). The Fatigue Assessment Scale (FAS) was used to identify fatigue and its severity. A multiple correspondence analysis was used to group forty-two COVID-19 symptoms into seven symptom clusters. Logistic and log-linear regressions were used to investigate associations between acute symptom clusters and Long COVID fatigue as dichotomous and continuous outcome, respectively. (3) Results: Fatigue occurred more frequently in women than in men (45% vs. 25%) and the median FAS score, indicating severity of fatigue, was higher in women than in men. The comparison between men and women revealed notable differences in four out of seven clusters. The strongest associations between symptom clusters in infection and Long COVID fatigue were identified for the cluster “cognitive and mental symptoms”. In the log-linear regression model, each additional symptom in this cluster was associated with an increase of the FAS score by 5.13% (95% CI: [0.04; 0.07]; p < 0.001). The results of the logistic regression models supported this finding. Each additional symptom in this symptom cluster increased the odds of fatigue by 42% (95% CI: [1.23; 1.66]; p < 0.001). (4) Conclusions: In our study in COVID-19 outpatients, a strong association was observed between the number of symptoms in the cluster “cognitive and mental symptoms” during acute SARS-CoV-2 infection and the risk of developing fatigue months later. The consequent use of preventive and therapeutic strategies is necessary to decrease the burden of fatigue in the context of Long COVID.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Personalized Medicine for Post COVID and Long COVID)
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Comparison of Long-Term Outcomes in Early-Stage Endometrial Cancer: Robotic Single-Site vs. Multiport Laparoscopic Surgery
by
Heeju Kang, Hyewon Chung, Seungmee Lee, Tae-Kyu Jang, So-Jin Shin, Sang-Hoon Kwon and Chi-Heum Cho
J. Pers. Med. 2024, 14(6), 601; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm14060601 - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to establish the noninferiority of robotic single-site (RSS) surgery compared with multiport laparoscopic (MPL) surgery in surgical outcomes and overall survival for early endometrial cancer. This study was conducted retrospectively in a single center and included 421
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The purpose of this study was to establish the noninferiority of robotic single-site (RSS) surgery compared with multiport laparoscopic (MPL) surgery in surgical outcomes and overall survival for early endometrial cancer. This study was conducted retrospectively in a single center and included 421 patients who underwent either RSS (n = 146) or MPL (n = 275) surgery between 2014 and 2022. In terms of perioperative outcomes, the RSS group had a longer operating time than the MPL surgery group (mean (standard deviation [SD]) RSS 97.55 [29.79] vs. MPL 85.56 [26.13], p < 0.001). However, no significant differences in estimated blood loss or perioperative complications were found between the groups (p = 0.196 and p = 0.080, respectively). The patients in the RSS group were discharged earlier than those in the MPL group (mean [SD]): 4.06 [3.24] vs. 9.39 [4.76], p < 0.001). Regarding oncologic outcomes, no significant differences in the type of therapy, disease stage, tumor grade, histopathological type, or lymphovascular invasion were found between the groups. No statistically significant differences were found in the disease-free (p = 0.27) and overall survival rates (p = 0.5) either. In conclusion, this study suggests that RSS and MPL surgery are both safe and effective options for staging operations in patients with early-stage endometrial cancer.
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(This article belongs to the Section Methodology, Drug and Device Discovery)
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Differences in Anthropometric, Sleep and Respiratory Characteristics between Hypercapnic and Normocapnic Patients with COPD-OSA Overlap Syndrome
by
Athanasios Voulgaris, Kostas Archontogeorgis, Konstantina Chadia, Dimitra Siopi, Evangelia Nena and Paschalis Steiropoulos
J. Pers. Med. 2024, 14(6), 600; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm14060600 - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
Background: Overlap syndrome (OS), the coexistence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and obstructive sleep apnea, is frequently characterized by the presence of daytime hypercapnia (pCO2 ≥ 45 mmHg). The aim of this study was to investigate potential differences in anthropometric, sleep and
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Background: Overlap syndrome (OS), the coexistence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and obstructive sleep apnea, is frequently characterized by the presence of daytime hypercapnia (pCO2 ≥ 45 mmHg). The aim of this study was to investigate potential differences in anthropometric, sleep and respiratory characteristics between hypercapnic and normocapnic patients with OS. Methods: Consecutive patients who underwent polysomnography, pulmonary function testing and arterial blood gases and had been diagnosed with OS were enrolled in the study. Results: According to pCO2 levels in wakefulness, the patients were divided into group A, consisting of OS patients without hypercapnia (n = 108) or group B, consisting of OS patients with hypercapnia (n = 55). The majority of included patients in both groups were males (n = 92 in group A vs. n = 50 in group B). Group B had increased BMI (p = 0.001), neck (p = 0.017) and waist circumference (p = 0.013), higher scores in Epworth sleepiness scale (ESS) (p = 0.008), increased sleep efficiency (p = 0.033), oxygen desaturation index (p = 0.004) and time with oxyhemoglobin saturation <90% (p = 0.006) than group A. Also, Group B had decreased average and minimum oxyhemoglobin saturation during sleep (p < 0.001). Hypercapnic patients had lower FEV1% (p = 0.003), FVC% (p = 0.004), pO2 and pCO2 (p < 0.001 for both) values compared with normocapnic patients. In binary regression analysis, which assessed various predictors on the likelihood of having hypercapnia, it was found that BMI (OR: 1.313, 95% CI: 1.048–1.646, p = 0.018) and FVC (OR: 0.913, 95% CI: 0.845–0.986, p = 0.020) were the major determinants of hypercapnia in OS patients. Conclusions: Hypercapnic OS patients were more obese and sleepy and presented worse respiratory function in wakefulness and sleep hypoxia characteristics compared with normocapnic OS patients.
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(This article belongs to the Section Clinical Medicine, Cell, and Organism Physiology)
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