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Keywords = calcification rate

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16 pages, 1571 KiB  
Article
Effectiveness of Ultrasound-Guided Lavage for Rotator Cuff Calcific Tendinopathy: A Case Series Study from a Clinical and Radiological Perspective
by Lucrezia Moggio, Michele Mercurio, Nicola Marotta, Umile Giuseppe Longo, Giorgio Gasparini, Antonio Ammendolia and Alessandro de Sire
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(15), 5376; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14155376 - 30 Jul 2025
Viewed by 157
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Rotator cuff calcific tendinopathy (RCCT) is one of the most common causes of non-traumatic shoulder pain. To date, there is still no consensus regarding the most effective method for its treatment. Ultrasound-guided percutaneous aspiration is suggested during the reabsorption phase of [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Rotator cuff calcific tendinopathy (RCCT) is one of the most common causes of non-traumatic shoulder pain. To date, there is still no consensus regarding the most effective method for its treatment. Ultrasound-guided percutaneous aspiration is suggested during the reabsorption phase of calcific metaplasia. We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of ultrasound-guided lavage for RCCT from a clinical and radiological perspective. Methods: We involved patients affected by RCCT of the supraspinatus tendon. The approach used for the calcification lavage was the one-needle technique, consisting in inserting a 16–18 G needle on a 20 mL syringe with 0.9% saline solution, in the calcific metaplasia, under ultrasound guidance, using an in-plane approach; the repetitive action of pressing and releasing the plunger was repeated until the contents of the syringe became milky, at which point the syringe was replaced with a new one, always containing saline solution. The physiotherapy treatment began 7 days after the procedure. We assessed the Numeric Rating Scale, the Gartner classification, the Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand scale, the Constant–Murley shoulder score, and the passive range of motion of flexion and abduction. Results: We included 23 subjects. The analysis of the data at baseline and t1 showed a statistically significant improvement in all the functional variables (p < 0.05). This result was mainly evident for pain, with a p-value of 0.001. Conclusions: The findings of the present prospective case series study showed an improvement in the clinical and radiological outcomes after ultrasound-guided percutaneous aspiration for rotator cuff calcific tendinopathy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Musculoskeletal Imaging and Intervention)
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12 pages, 1214 KiB  
Article
Quadruple Fenestrated Stentgrafts for Complex Aortic Aneurysms: Outcomes of Non-Stented Celiac Artery Fenestrations
by Daniela Toro, Kim Bredahl, Katarina Björses, Tomas Ohrlander, Katja Vogt and Timothy Resch
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(15), 5189; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14155189 - 22 Jul 2025
Viewed by 253
Abstract
Background: Fenestrated stentgrafting has become a first-line treatment for juxtarenal aneurysms, and the incorporation of all renovisceral vessels with fenestrations has become common to increase the proximal sealing zone. This increases the complexity of the repair compared to using fewer fenestrations, and [...] Read more.
Background: Fenestrated stentgrafting has become a first-line treatment for juxtarenal aneurysms, and the incorporation of all renovisceral vessels with fenestrations has become common to increase the proximal sealing zone. This increases the complexity of the repair compared to using fewer fenestrations, and stenting of the celiac artery (CA), in particular, can be technically challenging. Objective: This study evaluates the mid-term outcomes of leaving the celiac artery unstented during quadruple fenestrated stentgrafting for complex aortic aneurysms. Additionally, it explores the clinical and anatomical factors that influence the decision to not stent the celiac artery. Methods: A retrospective review was conducted of patients with complex aortic aneurysms who underwent elective fenestrated endovascular aneurysm repair (FEVAR) between 2018 and 2023. Custom Cook Zenith grafts were used, and all patients underwent preoperative computed tomography angiography (CTA) as well as follow-up CTA to assess the celiac artery. This study evaluated celiac artery anatomic factors, such as proximal and distal diameter; presence of stenosis (<50% or >50%) and patency; length of any CA stenosis; CA takeoff angulation, CA tortuosity, early CA division; calcification; and presence of CA aneurysm or ectasia anatomical abnormalities. Recorded outcomes of CA instability included any stent stenosis, target vessel occlusion, reintervention, or endoleak (types 1C and 3). Results: A total of 101 patients underwent FEVAR, with 72 receiving a stent in the celiac artery and 29 not receiving it. Rates of technical success (96.5% vs. 100%), intervention times (256 min vs. 237 min), and lengths of hospital stay (5.1 vs. 4.7 days) were similar between unstented vs. stented groups. At one year, no significant difference in celiac artery instability was noted (17.2 vs. 5.5%; p = 0.06). Risk factors for CA occlusion on univariate analysis included a steep takeoff angle (≥140°), length of stenosis >6.5 mm, proximal diameter ≤6.5 mm, preoperative stenosis ≥50%, and celiac artery tortuosity. Conclusions: Anatomical features of the CA impact the ability to achieve routine CA stenting during FEVAR. Selectively not stenting the celiac artery during FEVAR might simplify the procedure without compromising patient safety and mid-term outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aortic Aneurysms: Recent Advances in Diagnosis and Treatment)
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14 pages, 5696 KiB  
Article
Growth Patterns of Reef-Building Porites Species in the Remote Clipperton Atoll Reef
by Ania Ochoa-Serena, J. J. Adolfo Tortolero-Langarica, Fabián A. Rodríguez-Zaragoza, Juan P. Carricart-Ganivet, Eric Clua and Alma P. Rodríguez-Troncoso
Diversity 2025, 17(7), 492; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17070492 - 18 Jul 2025
Viewed by 1101
Abstract
Remote reefs offer insights into natural coral dynamics, influenced by regional environmental factors and climate change fluctuations. Clipperton Atoll is the eastern tropical Pacific’s most isolated reef, where coral reef growth and life strategies have been poorly studied so far. Recognizing the coral [...] Read more.
Remote reefs offer insights into natural coral dynamics, influenced by regional environmental factors and climate change fluctuations. Clipperton Atoll is the eastern tropical Pacific’s most isolated reef, where coral reef growth and life strategies have been poorly studied so far. Recognizing the coral species’ growth response might help understand ecological dynamics and the impacts of anthropogenic stressors on coastal reefs. The present study evaluates annual coral growth parameters of the most abundant coral reef-building species, Porites australiensis, Porites arnaudi, Porites lutea, and Porites lobata. The results showed that during 2015–2019, corals exhibited the lowest annual linear extension (0.65 ± 0.29 cm yr−1), skeletal density (1.14 ± 0.32 g cm−3), and calcification rates (0.78 ± 0.44 g cm−2 yr−1) for the genera along the Pacific. Differences in growth patterns among species were observed, with Porites lutea and Porites lobata showing a higher radial extension, developing massive-hemispherical morphologies, and acting as structural stabilizers; meanwhile, P. arnaudi and P. australiensis exhibited more skeletal compaction but also with a high plasticity on their morphologies, contributing to benthic heterogeneity. These differences are particularly important as each species fulfills different ecological functions within the reef, contributing to the ecosystem balance and enhancing the relevance of the massive species in the physical structure of remote reef systems, such as Clipperton Atoll. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Eco-Physiology of Shallow Benthic Communities)
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15 pages, 1341 KiB  
Article
Stratifying Breast Lesion Risk Using BI-RADS: A Correlative Study of Imaging and Histopathology
by Sebastian Ciurescu, Simona Cerbu, Ciprian Nicușor Dima, Victor Buciu, Denis Mihai Șerban, Diana Gabriela Ilaș and Ioan Sas
Medicina 2025, 61(7), 1245; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61071245 - 10 Jul 2025
Viewed by 351
Abstract
Background and Objectives: The accuracy of breast cancer diagnosis depends on the concordance between imaging features and pathological findings. While BI-RADS (Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System) provides standardized risk stratification, its correlation with histologic grade and immunohistochemical markers remains underexplored. This [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: The accuracy of breast cancer diagnosis depends on the concordance between imaging features and pathological findings. While BI-RADS (Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System) provides standardized risk stratification, its correlation with histologic grade and immunohistochemical markers remains underexplored. This study assessed the diagnostic performance of BI-RADS 3, 4, and 5 classifications and their association with tumor grade and markers such as ER, PR, HER2, and Ki-67. Materials and Methods: In this prospective study, 67 women aged 33–82 years (mean 56.4) underwent both mammography and ultrasound. All lesions were biopsied using ultrasound-guided 14G core needles. Imaging characteristics (e.g., margins, echogenicity, calcifications), histopathological subtype, and immunohistochemical data were collected. Statistical methods included logistic regression, Chi-square tests, and Spearman’s correlation to assess associations between BI-RADS, histology, and immunohistochemical markers. Results: BI-RADS 5 lesions showed a 91% malignancy rate. Evaluated features included spiculated margins, pleomorphic microcalcifications, and hypoechoic masses with posterior shadowing, and were correlated with histological and immunohistochemical results. Invasive tumors typically appeared as irregular, hypoechoic masses with posterior shadowing, while mucinous carcinomas mimicked benign features. Higher BI-RADS scores correlated significantly with increased Ki-67 index (ρ = 0.76, p < 0.001). Logistic regression yielded an AUC of 0.877, with 93.8% sensitivity and 80.0% specificity. Conclusions: BI-RADS scoring effectively predicts malignancy and correlates with tumor proliferative markers. Integrating imaging, histopathology, and molecular profiling enhances diagnostic precision and supports risk-adapted clinical management in breast oncology. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Developments in Diagnosis and Management of Breast Cancer)
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13 pages, 933 KiB  
Article
Bisphosphonate Use and Cardiovascular Outcomes According to Kidney Function Status in Post-Menopausal Women: An Emulated Target Trial from the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis
by Elena Ghotbi, Nikhil Subhas, Michael P. Bancks, Sammy Elmariah, Jonathan L. Halperin, David A. Bluemke, Bryan R Kestenbaum, R. Graham Barr, Wendy S. Post, Matthew Budoff, João A. C. Lima and Shadpour Demehri
Diagnostics 2025, 15(13), 1727; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15131727 - 7 Jul 2025
Viewed by 437
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Bisphosphonates may influence vascular calcification and atheroma formation via farnesyl pyrophosphate synthase inhibition in the mevalonate pathway regulating bone and lipid metabolism. However, the clinical impact of NCB use on cardiovascular outcomes remains uncertain, largely due to methodological heterogeneity in prior studies. [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Bisphosphonates may influence vascular calcification and atheroma formation via farnesyl pyrophosphate synthase inhibition in the mevalonate pathway regulating bone and lipid metabolism. However, the clinical impact of NCB use on cardiovascular outcomes remains uncertain, largely due to methodological heterogeneity in prior studies. We aimed to evaluate the association between nitrogen-containing bisphosphonate (NCB) therapy and coronary artery calcium (CAC) progression, as well as the incidence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and coronary heart disease (CHD) events. Methods: From 6814 participants in MESA Exam 1, we excluded males (insufficient male NCB users in the MESA cohort), pre-menopausal women, baseline NCB users, and users of hormone replacement therapy, raloxifene, or calcitonin. Among 166 NCB initiators and 1571 non-users with available CAC measurements, propensity score matching was performed using the available components of FRAX, namely age, race, BMI, LDL cholesterol, alcohol, smoking, and steroid use, and baseline CAC yielded 165 NCB initiators matched to 473 non-users (1:3 ratio). Linear mixed-effects models evaluated CAC progression, and Cox models analyzed incident CVD and CHD events. Results: In the overall cohort, NCB use was not significantly associated with CAC progression (annual change: −0.01 log Agatston units; 95% CI: −0.05 to 0.01). However, among participants with a baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) < 65 mL/min/1.73 m2, NCB use was associated with attenuated CAC progression compared with non-users (−0.06 log Agatston units/year; 95% CI: −0.12 to −0.007). No significant association was observed between NCB use and incident CVD events in the overall cohort (HR: 0.90; 95% CI: 0.60−1.36) or within kidney function subgroups. Conclusions: Incident NCB use among postmenopausal women with mild or no CAC at baseline was associated with reduced CAC progression only in women with impaired kidney function. However, this association did not correspond to a decreased risk of subsequent cardiovascular events, suggesting that the observed imaging benefit may not translate into meaningful clinical association. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnosis and Management of Cardiovascular Diseases)
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11 pages, 1895 KiB  
Article
Comparison of Adenine-Induced Rat Models for Vascular Calcification in Chronic Kidney Disease
by Ho Won Kang, Ji Hye Kim, A Ro Yoon, Jahyung Kim, Joonhee Kim, Min Gyu Kyung and Dong Yeon Lee
Biology 2025, 14(7), 814; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14070814 - 4 Jul 2025
Viewed by 322
Abstract
Vascular calcification significantly contributes to cardiovascular complications and limb loss in chronic kidney disease (CKD). To establish an optimal rat model for vascular calcification, we tested varying adenine concentrations and feeding durations in Sprague–Dawley rats (n = 72), divided into six groups (n [...] Read more.
Vascular calcification significantly contributes to cardiovascular complications and limb loss in chronic kidney disease (CKD). To establish an optimal rat model for vascular calcification, we tested varying adenine concentrations and feeding durations in Sprague–Dawley rats (n = 72), divided into six groups (n = 12 each). The control group received a standard diet for 18 weeks. Group 1 was given 0.5% adenine for 4 weeks, followed by a standard diet. Group 2 received 0.5% adenine for 4 weeks, then 0.25% for 14 weeks. Group 3A received 0.5% adenine for 12 weeks and then standard diet; group 3B received 0.5% adenine for 12 weeks, followed by 0.25% for 6 weeks; group 3C received 0.5% adenine for 18 weeks. At week 18, vascular calcification was absent in the control and group 1. Groups 2 and 3A showed low incidence (12.5%), while groups 3B and 3C showed high incidence (66.7%). However, survival rates differed: 75.0% in 3B and 50.0% in 3C after 12 wk. Thus, 0.5% adenine for 12 weeks followed by 0.25% for 6 weeks effectively induced vascular calcification while maintaining acceptable survival, providing a practical model for studying CKD-related vascular pathology. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Medical Biology)
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12 pages, 2032 KiB  
Article
Qualitative and Quantitative Computed Tomography Analyses of Lung Adenocarcinoma for Predicting Spread Through Air Spaces
by Fumi Kameda, Yoshie Kunihiro, Masahiro Tanabe, Masatoshi Nakashima, Taiga Kobayashi, Toshiki Tanaka, Yoshinobu Hoshii and Katsuyoshi Ito
Tomography 2025, 11(7), 76; https://doi.org/10.3390/tomography11070076 - 27 Jun 2025
Viewed by 295
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Spread through air spaces (STAS) is defined as the spread of tumor cells into the parenchymal alveolar space beyond the margins of the main tumor, and it is associated with worse clinical outcomes in resected lung adenocarcinoma. This study aimed to evaluate [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Spread through air spaces (STAS) is defined as the spread of tumor cells into the parenchymal alveolar space beyond the margins of the main tumor, and it is associated with worse clinical outcomes in resected lung adenocarcinoma. This study aimed to evaluate the preoperative computed tomography (CT) findings of primary lung adenocarcinoma in surgically resected T1 cases and to compare CT findings with and without STAS. Methods: A total of 145 patients were included in this study. The following factors were evaluated on CT images: nodule type (pure ground-glass nodule [GGN], part-solid nodule, or solid nodule), margin (smooth or irregular), the presence of lobulation, spicula, cavity, calcification, central low attenuation, peripheral opacity (well-defined or ill-defined), air bronchogram, satellite lesions, pleural retraction, pulmonary emphysema, and interstitial pneumonia; CT values (maximum, minimum, and mean); volume (tumor and solid component); and diameter (tumor and solid component). CT criteria were compared between the presence and absence of STAS. Results: Lobulation and central low attenuation were significantly more frequent in patients with STAS (p < 0.05). The mean CT value, and the volume, rate, and diameter of the solid component were significantly larger in cases with STAS (p < 0.05). A multiple logistic regression analysis identified central low attenuation as an indicator of the presence of STAS (p < 0.001; odds ratio, 3.993; 95% confidence interval, 1.993–8.001). Conclusions: Quantitative and qualitative analyses are useful for differentiating between the presence and absence of STAS. Full article
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11 pages, 1374 KiB  
Article
Long-Term Outcomes of the Ovation Stent Graft System: Single-Center Experience
by Gianluigi Fino, Giacomo Isernia, Gianbattista Parlani, Adriana Belardi, Francescopio Del Mastro, Enrico Cieri, Massimo Lenti and Gioele Simonte
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(12), 4177; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14124177 - 12 Jun 2025
Viewed by 367
Abstract
Background/Objective: To report mid-term to long-term outcome data for endovascular aortic repair using the Ovation stent graft system (Endologix, Santa Rosa, CA) for the correction of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) in a single center. Methods: All patients treated with the Ovation [...] Read more.
Background/Objective: To report mid-term to long-term outcome data for endovascular aortic repair using the Ovation stent graft system (Endologix, Santa Rosa, CA) for the correction of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) in a single center. Methods: All patients treated with the Ovation stent graft between December 2011 and February 2018 were included. Patient demographics, anatomical and operative details, as well as follow- up data including complications, the need for further interventions, and mortality were recorded prospectively in an electronic dataset and analyzed. Results: A total of 99 patients (86.10% males; mean age 73.6 ± 7.26 years) were treated with the Ovation stent graft. The mean maximal aortic diameter was 53.7 ± 8.8 mm mm. The main indications for Ovation use were small iliac accesses and thrombus/calcification at the proximal neck level. The technical success rate was 93.06%. No perioperative reintervention or limb occlusion was reported. Two graft-related perioperative adverse events were recorded. At a mean follow up of 82.70 ± 40 months, cumulative late survival was 97.90%, 92.60%, 81.00%, 73.40%, 48.70%, and 45.10%, respectively, at 12, 24, 48, 60, 108, and 120 months. No AAA-related death was recorded. Actuarial freedom from reintervention rate was 97.90%, 95.70%, 92.10%, and 80.10%, respectively, at 12, 24, 60, 108, and 120 months; estimated freedom from conversion was 98.90%, 97.70%, and 95.20% at 24, 60, 108, and 120 months. Conclusions: The Ovation stent graft demonstrated durable AAA exclusion even in complex anatomies evidenced by successful aneurysm exclusion and mid- to long-term freedom from aneurysm-related mortality. However, in this series, the not insignificant graft-related adverse event rate suggested the need for structural improvements, which were implemented in the next-generation devices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue State of the Art in Invasive Vascular Interventions (Second Edition))
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12 pages, 1030 KiB  
Article
Retrospective Analysis of Laparoscopic Varicocelectomy in Pediatric Patients: Impact of Lymphatic-Sparing Techniques and Methylene Blue on Outcomes—A Series of Cases
by Arzu Canmemis, Meltem Caglar and Cigdem Ulukaya Durakbasa
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(11), 3814; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14113814 - 29 May 2025
Viewed by 724
Abstract
Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes and complications of laparoscopic varicocelectomy (LV) in pediatric and adolescent patients, comparing lymphatic-sparing (LS) and non-lymphatic-sparing (NLS) techniques, with a particular focus on the postoperative effects of methylene blue dye. Methods: A retrospective [...] Read more.
Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes and complications of laparoscopic varicocelectomy (LV) in pediatric and adolescent patients, comparing lymphatic-sparing (LS) and non-lymphatic-sparing (NLS) techniques, with a particular focus on the postoperative effects of methylene blue dye. Methods: A retrospective review was conducted for patients with Grade 3 left-sided varicocele who underwent LV between 2010 and 2023. Patients were grouped according to whether lymphatic-sparing techniques were used. Testicular volumes were measured pre- and postoperatively by ultrasonography. Surgical complications including hydrocele, recurrence, and intratesticular calcification were recorded. Statistical comparisons were made between the two groups. Results: A total of 21 patients with a median age of 15 years were included. LS suvrgery was performed in seven patients (33.3%), and arterial sparing in four (19%). Methylene blue was used to identify lymphatic vessels in the LS group. Postoperative hydrocele was observed in three patients (14.3%) and occurred equally in both groups. However, testicular calcification was detected only in the LS group and was significantly more common compared to the NLS group (p = 0.002). Recurrence rates were not significantly different between groups (p = 0.694). No cases of testicular atrophy were observed. The median follow-up duration was 6 years in the NLS group and 3 years in the LS group (p = 0.026). Conclusions: Lymphatic-sparing laparoscopic varicocelectomy appears effective in preserving testicular volume, but the use of intratesticular methylene blue is associated with a higher incidence of calcification. These findings highlight the need for caution and further long-term evaluation of vital dyes in pediatric varicocelectomy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Clinical Pediatrics)
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15 pages, 2354 KiB  
Article
Segmental Pulse Volume Recordings at the Forefoot Level as a Valuable Diagnostic Tool for Detection of Peripheral Arterial Disease in the Diabetic Foot Syndrome
by Andreas Nützel, Lilly Juliane Undine Reik, Maximilian Hamberger, Christian Lottspeich, Sinan Deniz, Anja Löw, Holger Schneider, Hans Polzer, Sebastian Baumbach and Michael Czihal
Biomedicines 2025, 13(6), 1281; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13061281 - 23 May 2025
Viewed by 560
Abstract
Introduction: Evidence for the diagnostic yield of noninvasive diagnostic assessment for the diagnosis of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) in diabetic foot syndrome (DFS) is poor. Pulse volume recordings (PVRs) at the forefoot level could be a valuable diagnostic tool in the presence of [...] Read more.
Introduction: Evidence for the diagnostic yield of noninvasive diagnostic assessment for the diagnosis of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) in diabetic foot syndrome (DFS) is poor. Pulse volume recordings (PVRs) at the forefoot level could be a valuable diagnostic tool in the presence of medial arterial calcification. Patients and methods: Patients with DFS who underwent invasive angiography between 01/2020 and 11/2024 and had corresponding PVRs performed within 30 days prior to the procedure were included. DFS was classified according to the Wagner–Armstrong classification. Clinical characteristics and hemodynamic parameters, including systolic ankle pressures and ankle–brachial index were recorded. PVRs were analyzed semiquantitatively by investigators blinded to the clinical information and quantitatively with determination of upstroke time (UST), upstroke ratio (USR), and maximum systolic amplitude (MSA). Angiographic PAD severity was graded according to the GLASS classification. Statistical analysis included univariate significance tests, 2 × 2 contingency tables, receiver–operator characteristic (ROC) analysis and determination of interobserver agreement. Results: In this study, 90 extremities of 70 patients were analyzed, 47 of whom had an ABI ≥ 1.3. Critical limb-threatening ischemia with non-pulsatile PVRs was evident in 6.7%. An abnormal PVR curve morphology (mildly or severely abnormal) yielded a sensitivity and specificity of 63.3% and 85.7% for detection of severe PAD (GLASS stages 2 and 3). Interobserver agreement of semiquantitative PVR rating was substantial (Cohen’s kappa 0.8) in 51 evaluated cases. For detection of any PAD (GLASS ≥ 1) or severe PAD (GLASS ≥ 2), we found the highest diagnostic accuracy for MSA (area under the curve [AUC] 0.89 and 0.82). With a cut-off value of 0.58 mmHg, MSA had a sensitivity of 91.4% and a specificity of 80.8% for detection of any PAD (GLASS ≥ 1). MSA with a cut-off of 0.27 mmHg had a sensitivity of 72.2% and a specificity of 77.1% for detection of severe PAD, whereas the sensitivity and specificity for detection of inframalleolar disease were 62.9% and 69.4%, respectively. Results were consistent in subgroup analyses. Conclusions: PVRs with extraction of quantitative features offer promising diagnostic yield for detection of PAD in the setting of DFS. MSA outperformed UST and USR but showed limited capability of detecting impaired inframalleolar outflow. Full article
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23 pages, 3087 KiB  
Article
Patients with Higher Pulse Wave Velocity Are More Likely to Develop a More Severe Form of Knee Osteoarthritis: Implications for Cardiovascular Risk
by Tina Zavidić, Emina Babarović, Vedrana Drvar, Božena Ćurko-Cofek and Gordana Laškarin
Biomedicines 2025, 13(5), 1208; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13051208 - 15 May 2025
Viewed by 634
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a progressive degenerative joint disease characterised by low-grade inflammation and is associated with increased cardiovascular (CV) risk and arterial stiffness. Pulse wave velocity (PWV) is a quantitative measure of arterial stiffness and an important tool for detecting [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a progressive degenerative joint disease characterised by low-grade inflammation and is associated with increased cardiovascular (CV) risk and arterial stiffness. Pulse wave velocity (PWV) is a quantitative measure of arterial stiffness and an important tool for detecting subclinical arterial calcification and CV risk. This study aimed to determine whether PWV can distinguish radiographically mild KOA (Kellgren–Lawrence grades 1-2) from severe KAO (Kellgren–Lawrence grades 3-4) in terms of CV risk factors. Methods: A total of 223 postmenopausal women with KOA participated in this cross-sectional study. Assessments included anthropometry, laboratory analyses, blood pressure and PWV measurements, a 6 min walk test, pain evaluation using a visual analogue scale (VAS), and completion of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Results: PWV was significantly higher in the severe KOA group (10.53 m/s vs. 8.78 m/s, p < 0.001). A cut-off value of 8.4 m/s effectively distinguished between severe and mild forms of KOA (AUC = 0.798, p = 0.001). OA grade, pain, age, waist circumference, WHR, SCORE 2/SCORE 2OP, systolic blood pressure, serum glucose, HbA1c, uric acid, creatinine, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate were increased in the group with PWV > 8.4 m/s, compared to the group with PWV ≤ 8.4 m/s. Conversely, eGFR, the 6 min walk test and physical activity of patients were reduced in the group with PWV > 8.4 m/s. A patient with a PWV > 8.4 m/s has a 1.77 times higher chance of developing a more severe form of the disease than a patient with a lower PWV. Conclusions: Patients with a higher PWV are more likely to develop a more severe form of KOA, which is associated with increased cardiovascular risk. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular and Translational Medicine)
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17 pages, 6643 KiB  
Case Report
Calciphylaxis of the Upper Limbs—A Rare and Serious Disease with Multidisciplinary Treatments—A Case Series and Literature Review
by Mihaela Pertea, Malek Benamor, Andra-Irina Bulgaru-Iliescu, Abderrazek Abid, Said Abid and Alexandru-Hristo Amarandei
Diagnostics 2025, 15(9), 1179; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15091179 - 6 May 2025
Viewed by 873
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Calciphylaxis or calcific uremic arteriolopathy is a rare but highly lethal pathology that occurs most frequently in a uremic context, although it can also occur outside of this context. It is characterized by the appearance of necrotic skin lesions. Localization to the [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Calciphylaxis or calcific uremic arteriolopathy is a rare but highly lethal pathology that occurs most frequently in a uremic context, although it can also occur outside of this context. It is characterized by the appearance of necrotic skin lesions. Localization to the upper limbs is rare and has a similarly progressive evolution. Methods: We present a series of two cases—a male and a female—with calciphylaxis diagnoses (including biopsies) and with the patients undergoing dialysis for end-stage renal disease, both with infected and extensive necrotic lesions to the hands and fingers. Both cases required serial debridement treatments and amputations. A literature review was conducted using the precise search terms “calciphylaxis”, “upper limb”, “uremic calcific arteriolopathy”, and “end-stage renal disease” from January 2010 to May 2024. Results: One of the two reported cases ended with the patient’s death. The results of the literature review (comprising seven similar cases) confirmed the rarity of calciphylaxis lesion localization to the upper limbs and the high mortality rate among these patients despite administered treatments. No therapeutic protocol for these cases was confirmed. Conclusions: The treatment of calciphylaxis cases is multidisciplinary. Although surgical intervention is controversial, it is necessary in some cases, sometimes serially. Localization to the thoracic limbs has the same evolution and poor prognosis as other localizations. A standardized therapeutic protocol for these cases is still far from being established. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pathology and Molecular Diagnostics)
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15 pages, 1224 KiB  
Article
Development of a Pulmonary Nodule Service and Clinical Pathway: A Pragmatic Approach Addressing an Unmet Need
by Georgia Hardavella, Ioannis Karampinis, Nikolaos Anastasiou, Konstantinos Stefanidis, Kyriaki Tavernaraki, Styliani Arapostathi, Nektaria Sidiropoulou, Petros Filippousis, Alexandro Patirelis, Eugenio Pompeo, Panagiotis Demertzis and Stefano Elia
Diagnostics 2025, 15(9), 1162; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15091162 - 2 May 2025
Viewed by 786
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The surveillance of patients with incidental pulmonary nodules overloads existing respiratory and lung cancer clinics, as well as multidisciplinary team meetings. In our clinical setting, until 2018, we had numerous patients with incidental pulmonary nodules inundating our outpatient clinics; therefore, the need [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The surveillance of patients with incidental pulmonary nodules overloads existing respiratory and lung cancer clinics, as well as multidisciplinary team meetings. In our clinical setting, until 2018, we had numerous patients with incidental pulmonary nodules inundating our outpatient clinics; therefore, the need to develop a novel service and dedicated clinical pathway arose. The aims of this study are to 1. provide (a) a model of setting up a novel pulmonary nodule service, and (b) a pragmatic clinical pathway to address the increasing need for surveillance of patients with incidental pulmonary nodules. 2. share real-world data from a dedicated pulmonary nodule service running in a tertiary setting with existing resources. Methods: A retrospective review of established processes and referral mechanisms to our tertiary pulmonary nodule service was conducted. We have also performed a retrospective collection and review of data for patients reviewed and discussed in our tertiary pulmonary nodule service between April 2018 and April 2024. Results: Our tertiary pulmonary nodule service (PNS) comprises a dedicated pulmonary nodule clinic, a nodule multidisciplinary team (MDT) meeting and a dedicated proforma referral system. Due to the current national health system legislation and relevant processes, patients are required to physically attend clinic appointments. There are various sources of referral, including other departments within the hospital, other hospitals, various specialties in primary care and self-referrals. Between 15 April 2018 and 15 April 2024, 2203 patients were reviewed in the pulmonary nodule clinic (903 females, 1300 males, mean age 64 ± 19 years). Of those patients, 65% (1432/2203) were current smokers. A total of 1365 new patients and 838 follow-up patients were reviewed in total. Emphysema was radiologically present in 72% of patients, and 75% of those (1189/1586) already had a confirmed diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Coronary calcification was identified in 32% (705/2203), and 78% of those (550/705) were already known to cardiology services. Interestingly, 27% (368/1365) of the new patients were discharged following their first MDT meeting discussion, and 67% of these were discharged as the reason for their referral was an intrapulmonary lymph node which did not warrant any further action. Among all patients, 11% (246/2203) were referred to the multidisciplinary thoracic oncology service (MTOS) due to suspicious appearances/changes in their nodules that warranted further investigation, and from those, 37% were discharged (92/246) from the MTOS. The lung cancer diagnosis rate was 7% (154/2203). Conclusions: The applied pathway offers a pragmatic approach in setting up a service that addresses an increasing patient need. Its application is feasible in a tertiary care setting, and admin support is of vital importance to ensure patients are appropriately tracked and not lost to follow-up. Real-world data from pulmonary nodules services provide a clear overview and contribute to understanding patients’ characteristics and improving service provision. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Clinical Diagnosis and Prognosis)
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12 pages, 999 KiB  
Article
The Naples Prognostic Score as a Predictor of High-Risk Coronary Plaques Detected on Coronary CT Angiography in Chronic Coronary Syndrome
by Cagatay Bolgen and Mustafa Mazıcan
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(8), 2661; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14082661 - 13 Apr 2025
Viewed by 431
Abstract
Background/Objectives: High-risk coronary plaques (HRP), identified through coronary CT angiography (CCTA), are closely linked to cardiovascular events. Nutritional status and systemic inflammation may play a critical role in the development of HRP. The Naples Prognostic Score (NPS), which integrates markers of nutritional status [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: High-risk coronary plaques (HRP), identified through coronary CT angiography (CCTA), are closely linked to cardiovascular events. Nutritional status and systemic inflammation may play a critical role in the development of HRP. The Naples Prognostic Score (NPS), which integrates markers of nutritional status and systemic inflammation, has emerged as a potential predictor of outcomes in various cardiovascular conditions. This study aimed to investigate the association between NPS and HRP as assessed by CCTA. Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed on 753 patients with chronic coronary syndrome (CCS) who underwent CCTA. The patients were categorized into two groups: those with high-risk plaques (HRP present), and those without (HRP absent). Additionally, they were further stratified based on their NPS. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify the most relevant clinical factors and the role of NPS in relation to HRP and the need for revascularization. Results: The study population had a mean age of 56.9 ± 10.7 years, with 40% being female. The NPS was significantly higher in the HRP-present group compared to the HRP-absent group (p = 0.001). Stratification by NPS groups revealed that higher NPS groups were associated with increased coronary artery calcification scores (CAC) and revascularization rates (p < 0.001 and p = 0.003, respectively). Multivariable regression analysis demonstrated a significant association between NPS and HRP (OR = 1.228, 95% CI: 1.013–1.489, p = 0.036). Conclusions: The NPS is independently associated with the presence of high-risk coronary plaques in patients with chronic coronary syndrome. NPS may serve as a complementary risk stratification tool by reflecting systemic inflammation and nutritional status. Further prospective studies are needed to validate its prognostic value. Full article
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16 pages, 550 KiB  
Article
Assessment of Sexual Function in Relation to Microbiological Findings in Patients with Chronic Bacterial Prostatitis
by Vittorio Magri, Gianpaolo Perletti, Konstantinos Stamatiou and Alberto Trinchieri
Diagnostics 2025, 15(7), 887; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15070887 - 1 Apr 2025
Viewed by 833
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Patients with chronic bacterial prostatitis (CBP) often present symptoms of sexual dysfunction. We aimed to evaluate the impact of the infection location and etiology on sexual dysfunction in patients with CBP. Methods: Male patients with CBP diagnosed by microbiological tests [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Patients with chronic bacterial prostatitis (CBP) often present symptoms of sexual dysfunction. We aimed to evaluate the impact of the infection location and etiology on sexual dysfunction in patients with CBP. Methods: Male patients with CBP diagnosed by microbiological tests underwent a complete clinical assessment and were administered questionnaires for prostatitis (NIH-CPSI), voiding (IPSS), and sexual function (IIEF-15, PEDT). Results: Out of 614 patients, erectile dysfunction (ED) was present in 49.8%, and premature ejaculation (PE) in 40.7%. At least one sexual disorder was present in 86.3% when other disorders of ejaculation, orgasm, and sexual desire were considered. Patients with Gram-negative infections in expressed prostatic secretion (EPS) or voided urine after prostatic massage (VB3) had higher odds of moderate to severe erectile dysfunction compared to patients with infection by atypical pathogens (OR 3.31, CI 1.43–7.63, p = 0.0039). Rates of orgasmic dysfunction were also higher in Gram-negative and Gram-positive with respect to atypicals (OR 3.2, CI 1.36–7.90, p = 0.006 and OR 3.78, CI 1.64–8.71, p = 0.001). Hemospermia was more frequent in patients with semen infection by Gram-positive than in patients with infection by atypical pathogens (OR 2.2984, CI 1.3239–3.9901, p = 0.002). Prostatic calcifications at transrectal ultrasound were less frequent in patients with semen infection by Gram-negative compared to Gram-positive (OR 0.471, CI 0.3029–0.7322, p = 0.000). The addition of an “S” (sexual) domain to the UPOINT classification achieves a more significant correlation between the number of positive domains in each patient and the NIH-CPSI score. Conclusions: Infections by Gram-negative are associated with more sexual morbidity in patients with CBP. The use of a questionnaire investigating all the main domains of sexual dysfunction could be very useful for the phenotyping of patients with chronic prostatitis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Diagnostic Microbiology and Infectious Disease)
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