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15 pages, 925 KiB  
Article
Are There Gender Differences in the Benefits of Multidisciplinary Care in Patients with Heart Failure? Results from the UMIPIC Program
by Alicia Conde-Martel, Manuel Méndez-Bailón, Manuel Montero-Pérez-Barquero, Álvaro González-Franco, José Manuel Cerqueiro, José Pérez-Silvestre, José María Fernández-Rodríguez, Pau Llàcer, Jesús Casado, Francesc Formiga, Prado Salamanca-Bautista, Jose Carlos Arévalo-Lorido and Luis Manzano
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(16), 5818; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14165818 (registering DOI) - 17 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Heart failure (HF) is a leading cause of hospitalization in older adults, with significant sex differences in presentation, treatment, and outcomes. Transitional care models may benefit women more, yet they often receive less follow-up. This study assessed whether the clinical impact [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Heart failure (HF) is a leading cause of hospitalization in older adults, with significant sex differences in presentation, treatment, and outcomes. Transitional care models may benefit women more, yet they often receive less follow-up. This study assessed whether the clinical impact of the UMIPIC multidisciplinary HF management program differs by sex. Methods: This prospective, multicenter, observational cohort study included HF patients enrolled in the UMIPIC program or followed through conventional care in the RICA registry. Outcomes (30-day and one-year mortality and readmissions) were compared between groups, stratified by sex. Multivariate Cox models adjusted for age, HF phenotype, comorbidities, and baseline therapy. Results: A total of 5644 HF patients were included, with 2034 (36%) managed in UMIPIC and 3610 (64%) receiving conventional care. Women represented 55% of UMIPIC patients and were older, with higher prevalence of hypertension, anemia, and HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) compared to conventional care. At 30 days, women in UMIPIC had lower all-cause mortality (4.0% vs. 8.0%), cardiovascular mortality (2.0% vs. 6.0%), and readmissions (9.0% vs. 18.0%; all p < 0.01); these benefits persisted at one year. In multivariate analysis, UMIPIC enrollment remained protective (HR: 0.79; 95% CI: 0.71–0.87; p < 0.001). In men, UMIPIC patients were older with more comorbidities and higher HFpEF prevalence. They also showed lower 30-day mortality (2.0% vs. 8.0%; p < 0.05) and readmissions (8.0% vs. 18.0%; p < 0.01), with benefits maintained at one year. UMIPIC enrollment remained independently associated with reduced one-year mortality in men (HR: 0.79; 95% CI: 0.71–0.88; p < 0.001). Conclusions: The UMIPIC multidisciplinary care model reduced one-year mortality and readmissions in both women and men with HF, supporting integrated care strategies to improve outcomes in this high-risk population. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cardiovascular Medicine)
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12 pages, 560 KiB  
Article
Association of Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 Inhibitor Use with COVID-19 Mortality in Diabetic Patients: A Nationwide Cohort Study in Korea
by Jung Wan Park, Mi Kyung Kwak, Samel Park, Nam Hun Heo and Eun Young Lee
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(16), 5815; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14165815 (registering DOI) - 17 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Patients with diabetes mellitus face increased risk of severe outcomes and mortality from COVID-19. Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors, widely used antidiabetic agents, are hypothesized to affect COVID-19 outcomes via anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating mechanisms. However, real-world evidence, especially in Korean populations, remains limited. [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Patients with diabetes mellitus face increased risk of severe outcomes and mortality from COVID-19. Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors, widely used antidiabetic agents, are hypothesized to affect COVID-19 outcomes via anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating mechanisms. However, real-world evidence, especially in Korean populations, remains limited. Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study using Korea’s nationwide Health Insurance Review and Assessment (HIRA) database. Adults with diabetes hospitalized for confirmed COVID-19 between 1 March 2021, and 28 February 2022, were included and stratified by DPP-4 inhibitor use. The primary outcome was 30-day all-cause mortality. Cox proportional hazards models adjusted for age, sex, and comorbidities estimated hazard ratios (HRs). Subgroup analyses examined angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) and insulin use. Results: Among 16,134 eligible patients, 7082 received DPP-4 inhibitors. The 30-day mortality rate was lower in DPP-4 inhibitor users than non-users (4.3% vs. 10.3%, p < 0.0001). Adjusted analyses showed DPP-4 inhibitor use was associated with reduced mortality risk (adjusted HR: 0.455; 95% CI: 0.414–0.499). Subgroup analyses yielded consistent results across ARB and insulin users. Kaplan-Meier curves demonstrated higher survival probability in the DPP-4 inhibitor group. Conclusions: In this nationwide Korean cohort, DPP-4 inhibitor use was associated with lower mortality among hospitalized diabetic patients with COVID-19. While these findings suggest a potential benefit, causality cannot be confirmed due to the observational design. Prospective studies are needed to verify these associations and explore underlying mechanisms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Endocrinology & Metabolism)
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21 pages, 1109 KiB  
Review
Pharmacological and Adjunctive Management of Non-Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients During the Omicron Era: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
by Lorenzo Vittorio Rindi, Drieda Zaçe, Loredana Sarmati, Roberto Parrella, Gianluca Russo, Massimo Andreoni and Claudio Maria Mastroianni
Viruses 2025, 17(8), 1128; https://doi.org/10.3390/v17081128 (registering DOI) - 16 Aug 2025
Abstract
Introduction: The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron subvariants characterized by increased transmissibility and immune escape has raised concerns about the efficacy of current treatments. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions in Omicron-infected non-hospitalized patients, focusing on key clinical outcomes [...] Read more.
Introduction: The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron subvariants characterized by increased transmissibility and immune escape has raised concerns about the efficacy of current treatments. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions in Omicron-infected non-hospitalized patients, focusing on key clinical outcomes such as hospitalization, respiratory failure, ICU admission, and 30-day mortality. Methods: Searches were performed in MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, Cochrane, and ClinicalTrials.gov (last update: 13 July 2025). Eligible studies reported outcomes on antiviral agents, monoclonal antibodies, adjunctive therapies, or telemedicine. Random-effects meta-analyses were conducted when appropriate, with heterogeneity assessed by I2. Publication bias was evaluated via funnel plots and Egger’s test. Subgroup analyses explored sources of heterogeneity. Results: Eighty-eight studies were included. Meta-analyses, comparing treatment vs. no treatment, revealed that nirmatrelvir/ritonavir reduced hospitalization by 52% (RR 0.48, 95% CI 0.36–0.63) and all-cause mortality by 84% (RR 0.16, 95% CI 0.11–0.24). Remdesivir reduced hospitalization by 70% (RR 0.30, 95% CI 0.19–0.47) and respiratory failure by 89% (RR 0.11, 95% CI 0.03–0.44). Sotrovimab decreased hospitalization (RR 0.71, 95% CI 0.54–0.93) and mortality (RR 0.34, 95% CI 0.19–0.61). Molnupiravir modestly reduced hospitalization (RR 0.80, 95% CI 0.70–0.91) and respiratory failure (RR 0.45, 95% CI 0.27–0.77). Conclusions: Nirmatrelvir/ritonavir and remdesivir remain important for reducing severe outcomes, while sotrovimab retains partial efficacy. Rapid access to antivirals remains an important factor in mitigating SARS-CoV-2’s burden. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Coronaviruses)
17 pages, 2265 KiB  
Article
Is There a Role for the Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio for Rebleeding and Mortality Risk Prediction in Acute Variceal Bleeding? A Comparative 5-Year Retrospective Study
by Sergiu Marian Cazacu, Dragos Ovidiu Alexandru, Alexandru Valentin Popescu, Petrica Popa, Ion Rogoveanu and Vlad Florin Iovanescu
Diseases 2025, 13(8), 265; https://doi.org/10.3390/diseases13080265 (registering DOI) - 16 Aug 2025
Abstract
(1) Background: Acute variceal bleeding (AVB) represents an important cause of upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB). Several prognostic scores may be useful for assessing mortality and rebleeding risk, with the Glasgow-Blatchford score (GBS) and Rockall score being the most commonly used for non-variceal bleeding. [...] Read more.
(1) Background: Acute variceal bleeding (AVB) represents an important cause of upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB). Several prognostic scores may be useful for assessing mortality and rebleeding risk, with the Glasgow-Blatchford score (GBS) and Rockall score being the most commonly used for non-variceal bleeding. Scores assessing liver failure (MELD and Child) do not reflect bleeding severity. The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) increases in UGIB and can predict survival and rebleeding. (2) Methods: We analyzed the predictive role of NLR, GBS, Rockall, AIMS65, Child, and MELD for mortality (48 h, 5-day, in-hospital, and 6-week) and rebleeding in AVB patients admitted to our hospital from 2017 to 2021. ROC analysis was performed, and a multivariate analysis with logistic regression was used to construct a simplified model. (3) Results: A total of 415 patients were admitted. NLR exhibited fair accuracy for 48-h mortality (AUC 0.718, 95% CI 0.597–0.839, p < 0.0001), with limited predictive value for medium-term mortality. The NLR accuracy was better than that of the GBS and Rockall score, similar to that of the AIMS65 and Child scores, but inferior to that of MELD. The value for all scores in predicting rebleeding was poor, with the highest AUC for the NLR. (4) Conclusions: The NLR exhibited reasonable accuracy in predicting short-term mortality in AVB. Our model (including NLR, age, creatinine, bilirubin, albumin, INR, platelet count, HCC, and etiology) demonstrated 80.72% accuracy in predicting 6-week mortality. Full article
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12 pages, 232 KiB  
Article
Minimally Invasive Mitral Valve Surgery in Patients Aged ≥75 Years: An Expanding Standard of Care
by Mariafrancesca Fiorentino, Elisa Mikus, Diego Sangiorgi, Simone Calvi, Antonino Costantino, Elena Tenti, Alberto Tripodi and Carlo Savini
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(16), 5798; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14165798 (registering DOI) - 16 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background: Right anterior mini-thoracotomy has gained increasing popularity as a preferred approach for mitral valve surgery due to its numerous advantages. This study aims to evaluate the safety and efficacy of this technique in elderly patients. Methods: Between January 2010 and November [...] Read more.
Background: Right anterior mini-thoracotomy has gained increasing popularity as a preferred approach for mitral valve surgery due to its numerous advantages. This study aims to evaluate the safety and efficacy of this technique in elderly patients. Methods: Between January 2010 and November 2024, a total of 4092 adult patients underwent mitral valve repair or replacement at our institution. Of these, 1687 patients were treated using a minimally invasive approach. This analysis focuses on elderly patients aged 75 years and older (n = 402), further subdivided into two groups: 75–79 years (n = 253) and 80 years and older (n = 149). Results: The study population comprised 49.8% male patients. A small percentage (1.7%) had a history of endocarditis, and 6.5% had undergone prior cardiac surgery. The median logistic EuroSCORE was 7.68 (IQR 5.83–11.00), and the median EuroSCORE II was 2.75 (1.71, 4.40). Alternative cannulation strategies, guided by AngioCT scans, can expand the applicability of this technique to patients unsuitable for femoral cannulation. Median durations for cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) and aortic cross-clamping were 99.5 and 80.0 min, respectively. Median ventilation time was 7 h, and the median ICU stay was 2 days. Atrial fibrillation was the most common postoperative complication (20.9%). A significant proportion of patients (47.8%) required blood transfusions, and 3.0% needed re-exploration for bleeding. The in-hospital mortality rate was 3.7%, with 7 (1.7%) patients requiring postoperative dialysis and 5 (1.2%) experiencing sepsis and multiple organ failure. Patients aged 80 years and older exhibited worse renal function and higher EuroSCOREs compared to the younger group (p < 0.001). However, they had shorter CPB (p = 0.004) and cross-clamp times (p = 0.001) and underwent a higher proportion of valve replacements (p = 0.003). Rates of major complications and in-hospital mortality were comparable between the two age groups. Logistic regression analysis identified the logistic EuroSCORE as the only significant preoperative risk factor (p = 0.001). Conclusions: Right anterior minithoracotomy is a safe and reproducible surgical approach, even in elderly patients, promoting faster recovery with a lower risk of complications. Among patients aged >80 years, despite higher comorbidities and elevated EuroSCORE II, in-hospital outcomes are comparable to those aged 75–79 years. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cardiovascular Medicine)
16 pages, 1398 KiB  
Article
Prognostic Impact of Vaccination, Comorbidity, and Inflammatory Biomarkers on Clinical Outcome in Hospitalized Patients with COVID-19
by Sandra Bižić-Radulović, Tijana Subotički, Olivera Mitrović Ajtić, Teodora Dragojević, Emilija Živković, Sanja Miljatović, Dalibor Petrović, Dejana Stanisavljević, Snežana Jovanović, Milanko Šekler, Dejan Vidanović, Bojana Beleslin Čokić and Vladan P. Čokić
Biomedicines 2025, 13(8), 1995; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13081995 (registering DOI) - 16 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has more severe symptoms and increased mortality among men than women. To address the prognostic impact of vaccination, comorbidities, and inflammatory biomarkers on classified clinical outcomes in hospitalized COVID-19 patients, we compared common and sex differences. [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has more severe symptoms and increased mortality among men than women. To address the prognostic impact of vaccination, comorbidities, and inflammatory biomarkers on classified clinical outcomes in hospitalized COVID-19 patients, we compared common and sex differences. Methods: Besides laboratory and clinical parameters at hospital admission, we performed a common and sex-based comparative analysis for the clinical outcomes, RT-qPCR analyses, and measured severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2)-specific IgM and IgG antibody levels of 702 COVID-19 patients in a single center from June 2020 to April 2022. Results: Pro-inflammatory biomarkers (C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), fibrinogen, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), D-dimer, ferritin), and liver enzymes (AST, ALT, GGT) were significantly more increased in COVID-19 male patients and generally elevated with the severity of clinical outcome, regardless of the SARS-CoV-2 variant. Cycle threshold (Ct) values of RT-qPCR testing were in negative correlation with IL-6 in COVID-19 male patients, indicating that higher viral load largely increased IL-6 levels in parallel with the severity of clinical outcome and regardless of vaccination. IgG levels were higher in early post-COVID-19 male patients. Comorbidities were more frequent in COVID-19 female patients and generally more common in the severe clinical outcomes. Vaccination was negatively correlated with the severity of clinical outcome, liver enzymes, LDH, and inflammatory parameters in hospitalized COVID-19 patients, while the risk of pneumonia was reduced. Vaccination reduced the need for corticosteroid and anti-inflammatory therapies, but increased the need for antiviral drug treatment. Conclusions: In addition to confirming inflammatory biomarkers and the importance of anti-inflammatory therapy in vaccinated patients, this study showed that vaccination reduces, but does not prevent, mortality in patients with COVID-19. Full article
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11 pages, 797 KiB  
Review
Heart Failure in Poland: A 20-Year Epidemiological Perspective
by Michał Bohdan, Anna Kowalczys, Jadwiga Nessler, Ewa Straburzyńska-Migaj, Marcin Gruchała and Małgorzata Lelonek
Medicina 2025, 61(8), 1472; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61081472 (registering DOI) - 16 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the leading cause of mortality in Poland, with heart failure (HF) presenting a significant public health issue. Materials and Methods: This study aimed to analyze trends in HF incidence, hospitalization rates, patient demographics, and [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the leading cause of mortality in Poland, with heart failure (HF) presenting a significant public health issue. Materials and Methods: This study aimed to analyze trends in HF incidence, hospitalization rates, patient demographics, and mortality over two decades A comparative analysis was performed using data from two national reports: (1) the 2013 report “Heart Failure—Analysis of Economic and Social Costs, “ assessing HF patients from 2004 to 2012, and (2) the 2023 report “Heart Failure in Poland 2014–2021,” based on data from the Polish Ministry of Health, National Health Fund, and HTA Consulting. This study examined the prevalence of HF (ICD-10 codes: I50, J81), hospitalization rates, comorbidities, mortality trends, and access to rehabilitation. Results: Between 2014 and 2019, the number of HF patients grew by 34%, reaching 1.02 million in 2019. Only 9% of HF patients were younger than 60 years. Multimorbidity was common, with arterial hypertension, atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, and arrhythmias, often preceding HF diagnosis. HF-related mortality increased, with 149,963 in 2021, compared to 16,606 in 2012. In 2019, hospitalizations related to HF increased by 41% compared to 2014. The economic burden of HF care increased by 117% between 2014 and 2020, with hospitalizations accounting for 94% of total costs, up from 65% in 2012. Access to cardiac rehabilitation remained limited. Conclusions: HF prevalence, hospitalization rates, and mortality have increased in Poland, alongside a rising burden of multimorbidity. These findings provide a foundation for future healthcare planning to reduce the impact of HF in Poland. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Heart Failure)
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16 pages, 698 KiB  
Review
Broad-Spectrum Antiviral Activity of Cyclophilin Inhibitors Against Coronaviruses: A Systematic Review
by Abdelazeem Elhabyan, Muhammad Usman S. Khan, Aliaa Elhabyan, Rawan Abukhatwa, Hadia Uzair, Claudia Jimenez, Asmaa Elhabyan, Yee Lok Chan and Basma Shabana
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(16), 7900; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26167900 - 15 Aug 2025
Abstract
Cyclophilins (Cyps), a family of peptidyl-prolyl isomerases, play essential roles in the life cycle of coronaviruses by interacting with viral proteins and modulating host immune responses. In this systematic review, we examined cell culture, animal model, and clinical studies assessing the anti-viral efficacy [...] Read more.
Cyclophilins (Cyps), a family of peptidyl-prolyl isomerases, play essential roles in the life cycle of coronaviruses by interacting with viral proteins and modulating host immune responses. In this systematic review, we examined cell culture, animal model, and clinical studies assessing the anti-viral efficacy of cyclosporine A (CsA, PubChem CID: 5284373) and its non-immunosuppressive derivatives against coronaviruses. CsA demonstrated robust anti-viral activity in vitro across a broad range of coronaviruses, including but not limited to HCoV-229E, SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, and SARS-CoV-2, with potent EC50 values in the low micromolar range. Non-immunosuppressive analogs such as Alisporivir and NIM811 exhibited similar inhibitory effects. In vivo, CsA treatment significantly reduced viral load, ameliorated lung pathology, and improved survival in coronavirus-infected animals. Clinical studies further indicated that CsA administration was associated with improved outcomes in COVID-19 patients, including reduced mortality and shorter hospital stays. Mechanistic studies revealed that CsA disrupts the formation of viral replication complexes, interferes with critical Cyp–viral protein interactions, and modulates innate immune signaling. These findings collectively demonstrate the therapeutic potential of cyclophilin inhibitors as broad-spectrum anti-virals against current and emerging coronaviruses. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Immunology)
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14 pages, 729 KiB  
Article
Contralateral Robotic-Assisted Anatomical Resection for Synchronous or Metachronous Lung Cancer: A Retrospective Case Series
by Alessio Campisi, Nabil Khan, Federica Pinna, Dennis Aliev, Raffaella Griffo, Philip Baum, Werner Schmidt, Hauke Winter and Martin Eichhorn
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(16), 5786; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14165786 - 15 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background: Advances in screening programs have led to increased detection of early-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), including synchronous or metachronous nodules amenable to surgical resection. Patients requiring contralateral anatomical lung resections present a unique surgical challenge due to potential impairments in [...] Read more.
Background: Advances in screening programs have led to increased detection of early-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), including synchronous or metachronous nodules amenable to surgical resection. Patients requiring contralateral anatomical lung resections present a unique surgical challenge due to potential impairments in lung function and the complexities of one-lung ventilation. This study evaluates the feasibility, safety, and perioperative outcomes of robotic-assisted thoracic surgery (RATS) for contralateral anatomical lung resections in patients with NSCLC. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 20 patients who underwent RATS contralateral anatomical resection between January 2019 and June 2024. Preoperative pulmonary function, perioperative characteristics, and oncological outcomes were assessed. Operative parameters, including conversion rates, intraoperative oxygenation, need for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), and postoperative complications, were recorded. Results: Seventy percent of the patients underwent surgery for metachronous tumors. The median forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) was 75.94% (66.62–89.24). The most common resection was segmentectomy (65.0%). The median operative time was 148.0 min (108.0–194.75). There were no conversions to open surgery or ECMO requirements. Intraoperative parameters remained stable (median FiO2: 0.8; lowest SaO2: 92.0%). Complications occurred in 25% of the patients, mostly Clavien–Dindo grade 2. No in-hospital, 30-day, or 90-day mortality was observed. Conclusions: Robotic-assisted contralateral anatomical lung resection is a feasible and safe approach for patients with previous contralateral surgery, supporting its role as a minimally invasive alternative for complex surgical cases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Robot-Assisted Surgery: Current Trends and Future Perspectives)
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14 pages, 802 KiB  
Article
Complete Revascularization in NSTE-ACS and Multivessel Disease: Clinical Outcomes and Prognostic Implications
by Silviu Raul Muste, Cristiana Bustea, Elena Emilia Babes, Francesca Andreea Muste, Gabriela S. Bungau, Delia Mirela Tit, Alexandra Georgiana Tarce and Andrei-Flavius Radu
Life 2025, 15(8), 1299; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15081299 - 15 Aug 2025
Viewed by 84
Abstract
Non-ST-segment-elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE-ACS) often coexists with multivessel coronary artery disease (MVD), complicating treatment decisions. Current guidelines suggest complete revascularization (CR), yet robust evidence in hemodynamically stable patients remains insufficient. However, the comparative benefit of CR over incomplete revascularization (IR) in reducing [...] Read more.
Non-ST-segment-elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE-ACS) often coexists with multivessel coronary artery disease (MVD), complicating treatment decisions. Current guidelines suggest complete revascularization (CR), yet robust evidence in hemodynamically stable patients remains insufficient. However, the comparative benefit of CR over incomplete revascularization (IR) in reducing ischemic events and improving cardiac function in this population is not well established. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of CR on all-cause mortality, cardiac death, and ischemic readmissions at 6 and 12 months, as the composite primary outcome, and to assess left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) improvement at discharge and hospital length of stay, as secondary outcomes. A total of 282 hemodynamically stable NSTE-ACS patients with MVD were included, of whom 218 (77.3%) underwent CR and 64 (22.7%) IR. The primary composite outcome occurred in 40.6% of IR patients versus 11.0% in the CR group at 6 months (p < 0.001), and 68.8% vs. 22.0% at 12 months (p < 0.001). CR was associated with significantly lower rates of all-cause and cardiac death, myocardial infarction, and unstable angina. Stroke incidence was similar. Event-free survival favored CR. Multivariable analysis identified CR and baseline LVEF as independent predictors of 12-month outcomes (HR for CR: 7.797; 95% CI: 3.961–15.348; p < 0.001; HR for LVEF: 0.959; CI: 0.926–0.994; p = 0.021). These findings strongly support CR as the preferred therapeutic strategy. Future prospective randomized studies are warranted to confirm the results. Full article
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14 pages, 263 KiB  
Article
Predictors of Intensive Care Unit Outcomes in Elderly Patients with Acute Respiratory Failure: A Retrospective Cohort Study
by Nazlıhan Boyacı Dündar, Kamil İnci, İrem Pamuk, Gulbin Aygencel and Melda Turkoglu
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(16), 5761; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14165761 - 14 Aug 2025
Viewed by 189
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Acute respiratory failure (ARF), a major cause of intensive care unit (ICU) admission in elderly patients, is strongly associated with adverse outcomes. Despite its clinical significance, data on prognostic factors in this patient group remain limited. This study aims to identify [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Acute respiratory failure (ARF), a major cause of intensive care unit (ICU) admission in elderly patients, is strongly associated with adverse outcomes. Despite its clinical significance, data on prognostic factors in this patient group remain limited. This study aims to identify key prognostic factors in elderly ICU patients with ARF to guide clinical management. Methods: This retrospective cohort study analyzed data from elderly patients (≥65 years) admitted to the tertiary medical ICU of Gazi University Hospital due to ARF between February 2020 and December 2022. Collected data included demographic characteristics, comorbidities, reasons for ICU admission, organ support requirements, and clinical scores. Statistical analyses were performed to identify independent predictors of ICU mortality and invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) requirement. Results: Of 244 patients, the median age was 76 (70–82) years, with a mortality rate of 49.2%. Independent predictors of mortality included higher SOFA scores (OR: 1.316, 95% CI: 1.089–1.590, p = 0.005), presence of shock at ICU admission (OR: 2.875, 95% CI: 1.046–7.905, p = 0.041), requirement of IMV (OR: 9.415, 95% CI: 3.591–24.679, p < 0.001), requirement of renal replacement therapy (RRT) (OR: 3.039, 95% CI: 1.125–8.206, p = 0.028), and hypoalbuminemia (OR: 3.647, 95% CI: 1.238–10.742, p = 0.019). IMV support was required in 56.9% of patients and was associated with more severe illness, worse oxygenation, and higher ICU mortality (77.6% vs. 11.4%, p < 0.001). Conclusions: In elderly patients with ARF, ICU mortality was independently associated with organ dysfunctions (higher SOFA scores, presence of shock at ICU admission, requirements of IMV and RRT) and hypoalbuminemia. Our findings highlight the need for individualized risk assessment and targeted supportive strategies in elderly patients with ARF. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Intensive Care)
17 pages, 1244 KiB  
Article
Decoding Sepsis: A 16-Year Retrospective Analysis of Activation Patterns, Mortality Predictors, and Outcomes from a Hospital-Wide Sepsis Protocol
by Marcio Borges-Sa, Andres Giglio, Maria Aranda, Antonia Socias, Alberto del Castillo, Joana Mena, Sara Franco, Maria Ortega, Yasmina Nieto, Victor Estrada, Roberto de la Rica and Son Llatzer’s Multidisciplinary Sepsis Unit
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(16), 5759; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14165759 - 14 Aug 2025
Viewed by 152
Abstract
Background: Sepsis remains a leading cause of mortality in hospitalized patients. We evaluated characteristics and outcomes of patients identified through a comprehensive hospital-wide sepsis protocol over a 16-year period. Methods: This retrospective cohort study analyzed hospital-wide sepsis protocol activations at a tertiary care [...] Read more.
Background: Sepsis remains a leading cause of mortality in hospitalized patients. We evaluated characteristics and outcomes of patients identified through a comprehensive hospital-wide sepsis protocol over a 16-year period. Methods: This retrospective cohort study analyzed hospital-wide sepsis protocol activations at a tertiary care hospital in Spain from 2006 to 2022. The protocol required at least two SIRS criteria plus evidence of organ dysfunction in patients over 14 years old. We analyzed demographics, activation criteria, hospital location, mortality predictors using univariate and multivariate analyses, including propensity score modeling, and resource utilization trends. Results: A total of 10,919 patients with 14,546 protocol activations were identified. The median age was 69 years (IQR: 56–78), with 60.9% male patients. Protocol activations occurred in the emergency department (54%), ICU (34.2%), and inpatient wards (11.8%). The most common SIRS criteria were tachycardia (75.6%), tachypnea (50.4%), and fever (48.5%). Prevalent organ dysfunctions included hypotension (53%), hypoxemia (50.1%), oliguria (28.9%), and altered mental status (22%). Overall in-hospital mortality showed a significant linear downward trend from 26.5% in the first year to 13.6% in later years (p < 0.01). Propensity score analysis confirmed independent mortality predictors included hyperlactatemia (aOR 2.21), altered consciousness (aOR 2.09), hypotension (aOR 1.87), and leukopenia (aOR 1.79). ICU admission rate decreased from 58% to 24% over the study period. Conclusions: This 16-year analysis shows that comprehensive hospital-wide sepsis protocols achieve sustained mortality reduction with improved resource utilization efficiency. These findings support implementing comprehensive sepsis protocols as an effective strategy for improving sepsis outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sepsis: New Insights into Diagnosis and Treatment)
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16 pages, 876 KiB  
Article
Lung Cancer Under Siege in Spain: Timeliness, Treatment, and Survival Before and After the COVID-19 Pandemic
by Manuel Luis Blanco-Villar, José Expósito-Hernández, Eulalia Navarro-Moreno, Adrián Aparicio Mota and José María López Martín
Cancers 2025, 17(16), 2655; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17162655 - 14 Aug 2025
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Abstract
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic prompted concerns about delays in cancer diagnosis and treatment, particularly for lung cancer (LC). We assessed the impact of the pandemic on lung cancer care, diagnostic efficiency, treatment timelines, and short-term survival in a Spanish tertiary hospital. Methods [...] Read more.
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic prompted concerns about delays in cancer diagnosis and treatment, particularly for lung cancer (LC). We assessed the impact of the pandemic on lung cancer care, diagnostic efficiency, treatment timelines, and short-term survival in a Spanish tertiary hospital. Methods: We performed a retrospective cohort study including 530 patients diagnosed with primary lung cancer from March 2019 to March 2022. Patients were grouped into three cohorts: pre-pandemic (2019), first pandemic year (2020), and second pandemic year (2021). Key intervals—referral-to-diagnosis and diagnosis-to-treatment—along with survival outcomes were compared across cohorts. Multivariate Cox regression identified independent predictors of mortality. Results: LC diagnoses declined by 19% in 2020, rebounding by 42% in 2021. The proportion of patients receiving the first definitive treatment remained stable (~70%). Diagnostic timeliness improved: the median referral-to-diagnosis interval shortened from 19 to 14 days (p < 0.0001), with >80% of patients diagnosed within 30 days throughout all periods. Molecular testing turnaround increased (median 11 to 15 days, p = 0.0226). The diagnosis-to-treatment interval remained unchanged (median 34–35 days). One-year survival improved from 37% (2019) to 43% (2020–2021), and two-year survival from 22% to 30%. In multivariate analysis, only advanced stage and poor ECOG performance status independently predicted mortality; delays in diagnosis or treatment had no significant impact. Conclusions: Despite pandemic-related disruptions, essential LC care and short-term outcomes were largely maintained in our center. Early stage at diagnosis and favorable performance status outweighed the effect of moderate delays. Health system resilience and streamlined care pathways proved critical for sustaining cancer outcomes during the COVID-19 crisis. These findings offer actionable lessons for the Spanish healthcare system and may help guide national preparedness strategies for future oncologic crises. Full article
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17 pages, 1152 KiB  
Review
Optimizing Recovery in Cardiac Surgery: A Narrative Review of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery Protocols and Clinical Outcomes
by Arzina Jaffer, Kayleigh Yang, Alisha Ebrahim, Amy N. Brown, Ryaan EL-Andari, Aleksander Dokollari, Alex J. Gregory, Corey Adams, William D. T. Kent and Ali Fatehi Hassanabad
Med. Sci. 2025, 13(3), 128; https://doi.org/10.3390/medsci13030128 - 14 Aug 2025
Viewed by 188
Abstract
Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) is an evidence-based, holistic perioperative recovery protocol intended to improve patient outcomes and decrease postoperative complication rates. While ERAS protocols were first introduced in 1997, specific guidelines for cardiac surgery were not established until 2019. Although the core [...] Read more.
Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) is an evidence-based, holistic perioperative recovery protocol intended to improve patient outcomes and decrease postoperative complication rates. While ERAS protocols were first introduced in 1997, specific guidelines for cardiac surgery were not established until 2019. Although the core principles of ERAS remain constant across surgical disciplines, ERAS guidelines for cardiac surgery have remained relatively understudied, likely due to the unique complexities posed by cardiac procedures. Within this comprehensive narrative review, we aimed to explore the current guidelines and evidence for ERAS in both cardiac and non-cardiac surgeries. In non-cardiac surgeries, ERAS has been shown to improve various outcomes, including ICU length of stay, patient satisfaction, and pain management. ERAS for cardiac surgery has also shown encouraging results, including shorter ICU and hospital stays, reduced postoperative opioid use, and faster recovery times. However, there is limited consensus across studies, particularly regarding its impact on morbidity and mortality, with mixed results reported. Furthermore, the limited data on the efficacy of ERAS in minimally invasive cardiac surgeries makes it difficult to establish well-supported guidelines for these procedures. Despite its limitations, the overall outcomes of ERAS for cardiac surgery remain promising. As our understanding and application of ERAS in cardiac surgery continue to evolve, these protocols have the potential to redefine cardiac surgical care standards. Full article
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21 pages, 834 KiB  
Article
Mismatch Between Perceived and Actual Dietary Nutrition in Hospitalized Cardiovascular Patients and Clinicians: A Cross-Sectional Assessment and Recommendations for Improvement
by Di Li, Jiaheng Han, Ye Peng, Xi Yu, Ying Xiao, Junxian Song and Peng Liu
Nutrients 2025, 17(16), 2624; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17162624 - 13 Aug 2025
Viewed by 269
Abstract
Background: Multiple studies demonstrated that nutritional risk and malnutrition were associated with prolonged hospitalization, extended rehabilitation duration, and increased mortality among patients with cardiovascular diseases (CVD). However, current research on dietary behaviors and nutritional status in hospitalized CVD patients remains insufficient. Objective: This [...] Read more.
Background: Multiple studies demonstrated that nutritional risk and malnutrition were associated with prolonged hospitalization, extended rehabilitation duration, and increased mortality among patients with cardiovascular diseases (CVD). However, current research on dietary behaviors and nutritional status in hospitalized CVD patients remains insufficient. Objective: This study systematically evaluated the concordance between cardiology inpatients’ and clinicians’ subjective nutritional status assessments and objective energy and protein intake achievement rates, while comprehensively investigating the multidimensional associations among Nutritional Risk Screening 2002 (NRS 2002), Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition (GLIM), blood parameters, and dietary intake. Methods: This study adopted a cross-sectional design to investigate hospitalized patients in the department of cardiology. Dietary knowledge and behavior data were collected through questionnaires, and actual dietary intake was recorded. Nutritional risk assessment and malnutrition diagnosis were performed for all inpatients. Differences between subjective evaluations and actual intake were compared, and the correlation between blood biochemical indicators and nutritional status was analyzed. Results: The study enrolled 618 valid cases, with male and female patients accounting for 67.48% and 32.52%, respectively. The patients’ age was 61.89 ± 12.88 years. The NRS 2002 score was 3.01 ± 0.94, with 132 inpatients diagnosed with malnutrition according to GLIM criteria. Energy and protein intake reached only 63.09 ± 18.23% and 74.98 ± 22.86% of target values, respectively. NRS 2002 showed significant correlations with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), C-reactive protein (CRP), albumin (ALB), etc. No significant difference was found between physician and inpatient evaluations (χ2 = 1.465, p < 0.05). Both ordinal and multivariable logistic regression analyses demonstrated significant discrepancies between subjective assessments (inpatient perceptions and physician evaluations) and objective energy and protein intake levels (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Hospitalized cardiovascular patients commonly exhibited insufficient nutritional intake and limited dietary awareness. A mismatch existed between patient/clinician perceptions and objectively assessed nutritional intake. Subjective evaluations could not accurately reflect actual nutritional status, necessitating enhanced nutritional monitoring—including nutritional risk screening, biochemical testing, and dietary surveys—along with personalized interventions. Future efforts should enhance collaboration between clinicians and dietitians to improve patients’ nutritional status and clinical prognosis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Clinical Nutrition)
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