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Search Results (10,669)

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11 pages, 638 KiB  
Communication
Millet in Bioregenerative Life Support Systems: Hypergravity Resilience and Predictive Yield Models
by Tatiana S. Aniskina, Arkady N. Kudritsky, Olga A. Shchuklina, Nikita E. Andreev and Ekaterina N. Baranova
Life 2025, 15(8), 1261; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15081261 (registering DOI) - 7 Aug 2025
Abstract
The prospects for long-distance space flights are becoming increasingly realistic, and one of the key factors for their implementation is the creation of sustainable systems for producing food on site. Therefore, the aim of our work is to assess the prospects for using [...] Read more.
The prospects for long-distance space flights are becoming increasingly realistic, and one of the key factors for their implementation is the creation of sustainable systems for producing food on site. Therefore, the aim of our work is to assess the prospects for using millet in biological life support systems and to create predictive models of yield components for automating plant cultivation control. The study found that stress from hypergravity (800 g, 1200 g, 2000 g, and 3000 g) in the early stages of millet germination does not affect seedlings or yield. In a closed system, millet yield reached 0.31 kg/m2, the weight of 1000 seeds was 8.61 g, and the yield index was 0.06. The paper describes 40 quantitative traits, including six leaf and trichome traits and nine grain traits from the lower, middle and upper parts of the inflorescence. The compiled predictive regression equations allow predicting the accumulation of biomass in seedlings on the 10th and 20th days of cultivation, as well as the weight of 1000 seeds, the number of productive inflorescences, the total above-ground mass, and the number and weight of grains per plant. These equations open up opportunities for the development of computer vision and high-speed plant phenotyping programs that will allow automatic correction of the plant cultivation process and modeling of the required yield. Predicting biomass yield will also be useful in assessing the load on the waste-free processing system for plant waste at planetary stations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physiological Responses of Plants Under Abiotic Stresses)
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23 pages, 5370 KiB  
Article
Evidence of Chronic Tusk Trauma and Compensatory Scoliosis in Mammuthus meridionalis from Madonna della Strada (Scoppito, L’Aquila, Italy)
by Leonardo Della Salda, Amedeo Cuomo, Franco Antonucci, Silvano Agostini and Maria Adelaide Rossi
Quaternary 2025, 8(3), 46; https://doi.org/10.3390/quat8030046 (registering DOI) - 7 Aug 2025
Abstract
A remarkably well-preserved skeleton of a male Mammuthus meridionalis, approximately 60 years old, from the Early Pleistocene that is housed at the Castle of L’Aquila (Italy) exhibits a fractured left tusk with severe bone erosion of the alveolus and premaxillary bone, as [...] Read more.
A remarkably well-preserved skeleton of a male Mammuthus meridionalis, approximately 60 years old, from the Early Pleistocene that is housed at the Castle of L’Aquila (Italy) exhibits a fractured left tusk with severe bone erosion of the alveolus and premaxillary bone, as well as marked spinal deformities. The cranial region underwent ultrasonographic, radiological, and histological examinations, while morphological and biomechanical analyses were conducted on the vertebral column. Microscopic analysis revealed intra vitam lesions, including woven bone fibers indicative of early bone remodeling and lamellar bone with expanded and remodeled Haversian systems. These findings are consistent with osteomyelitis and bone sequestration, likely resulting from chronic pulpitis following the tusk fracture, possibly due to an accident or interspecific combat. The vertebral column shows cervical scoliosis, compensatory curves, fusion between the first cervical vertebrae, and asymmetric articular facets, suggesting postural adaptations. Evidence of altered molar wear and masticatory function also support long-term survival post-trauma. Additionally, lesions compatible with spondyloarthropathy, an inflammatory spinal condition not previously documented in Mammuthus meridionalis, were identified. These findings provide new insights into the pathology and adaptive responses of extinct proboscideans, demonstrating the critical role of (paleo)histological methods in reconstructing trauma, disease, and aspects of life history in fossil vertebrates. Full article
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20 pages, 780 KiB  
Article
A Semantic Behavioral Sequence-Based Approach to Trajectory Privacy Protection
by Ji Xi, Weiqi Zhang, Zhengwang Xia, Li Zhao and Huawei Tao
Symmetry 2025, 17(8), 1266; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym17081266 (registering DOI) - 7 Aug 2025
Abstract
Trajectory data contain numerous sensitive attributes. Unauthorized disclosure of precise user trajectory information generates persistent privacy and security concerns that significantly impact daily life. Most existing trajectory privacy protection schemes focus on geographic trajectories while neglecting the critical importance of semantic trajectories, resulting [...] Read more.
Trajectory data contain numerous sensitive attributes. Unauthorized disclosure of precise user trajectory information generates persistent privacy and security concerns that significantly impact daily life. Most existing trajectory privacy protection schemes focus on geographic trajectories while neglecting the critical importance of semantic trajectories, resulting in ongoing privacy vulnerabilities. To address this limitation, we propose the Semantic Behavior Sequence-based Trajectory Privacy Protection method (SBS-TPP). Our approach integrates short-term and long-term behavioral patterns within a user behavior modeling layer to identify user preferences. A dual-model framework (geographic and semantic) generates noise-injected trajectories with maximized noise potential. This methodology applies symmetric noise addition to both geographic trajectory fragments and semantic trajectory segments, optimizing trajectory data utility while ensuring robust protection of sensitive information. The SBS-TPP framework operates in the following two phases: firstly, behavior modeling, which comprises interest extraction from behavioral trajectory sequences, and secondly, noise generation, which creates synthetic noise locations with maximal semantic expectation from original locations, yielding privacy-enhanced trajectories for publication. Experimental results demonstrate that our interest extraction model achieves 93.7% accuracy while maintaining 81.6% data utility under strict privacy guarantees. The proposed method significantly enhances data usability and enables effective recommendation services without compromising user privacy or security. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Computer)
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13 pages, 283 KiB  
Review
Integrating Peripheral Nerve Blocks in Multiple Trauma Care: Current Evidence and Clinical Challenges
by Liliana Mirea, Ana-Maria Dumitriu, Cristian Cobilinschi, Răzvan Ene and Raluca Ungureanu
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(15), 5598; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14155598 (registering DOI) - 7 Aug 2025
Abstract
Pain management in multiple trauma patients presents a complex clinical challenge due to competing priorities such as hemodynamic instability, polypharmacy, coagulopathy, and the urgency of life-saving interventions. In this context, peripheral nerve blocks (PNBs) are increasingly recognized as a valuable asset for their [...] Read more.
Pain management in multiple trauma patients presents a complex clinical challenge due to competing priorities such as hemodynamic instability, polypharmacy, coagulopathy, and the urgency of life-saving interventions. In this context, peripheral nerve blocks (PNBs) are increasingly recognized as a valuable asset for their role in managing pain in patients with multiple traumatic injuries. By reducing reliance on systemic opioids, PNBs support effective pain control and facilitate early mobilization, aligning with enhanced recovery principles. This narrative review summarizes current evidence on the use of PNBs in the context of polytrauma, focusing on their analgesic efficacy, integration within multimodal analgesia protocols, and contribution to improved functional outcomes. Despite these advantages, clinical application is limited by specific concerns, including the potential to mask compartment syndrome, the risk of nerve injury or local anesthetic systemic toxicity (LAST), and logistical barriers in acute trauma settings. Emerging directions in the field include the refinement of ultrasound-guided PNB techniques, the expanded use of continuous catheter systems, and the incorporation of fascial plane blocks for anatomically complex or multisite trauma. Parallel efforts are focusing on the development of decision-making algorithms, improved risk stratification tools, and integration into multimodal analgesic pathways. There is also growing emphasis on standardized clinical protocols, simulation-based training, and patient education to enhance safety and consistency in practice. As evidence continues to evolve, the long-term impact of PNBs on functional recovery, quality of life, and healthcare utilization must be further explored. With thoughtful implementation, structured training, and institutional support, PNBs may evolve into a cornerstone of modern trauma analgesia. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Anesthesia and Intensive Care in Orthopedic and Trauma Surgery)
36 pages, 7591 KiB  
Article
Inspection Data-Driven Machine Learning Models for Predicting the Remaining Service Life of Deteriorating Bridge Decks
by Gitae Roh, Changsu Shim and Hyunhye Song
Buildings 2025, 15(15), 2799; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15152799 (registering DOI) - 7 Aug 2025
Abstract
The bridge deck is more vulnerable to deterioration than other structural components. This is due to its direct exposure to environmental factors such as vehicular loads, chloride ingress, and freeze–thaw cycles. The resulting accelerated degradation often results in a serviceability life that is [...] Read more.
The bridge deck is more vulnerable to deterioration than other structural components. This is due to its direct exposure to environmental factors such as vehicular loads, chloride ingress, and freeze–thaw cycles. The resulting accelerated degradation often results in a serviceability life that is shorter than the intended design life. However, the absence of standardized condition assessment methods coupled with clear definitions of remaining service life has limited the establishment of rational guidelines for repair and strengthening. In a bid to address this lack, this study focuses on PSC-I type bridges in South Korea, utilizing long-term field inspection data to analyze environmental, structural, and material factors—including reinforcement corrosion, chloride diffusion, and freeze–thaw actions. Environmental zoning was applied based on regional conditions, while structural zoning was performed according to load characteristics, thereby allowing the classification of deck regions into moment zones and cantilever sections. Machine learning models were employed to identify dominant deterioration mechanisms, with the validity of the zoning classification being evaluated via model accuracy and SHAP value analysis. Additionally, a regression-based approach was proposed to estimate the remaining service life of the bridge deck for each corrosion phase, thereby providing a quantitative framework for durability assessment and maintenance planning. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Knowledge Management in the Building and Construction Industry)
15 pages, 1229 KiB  
Article
Population Dynamics of the Florida Softshell Turtle (Apalone ferox) in a Protected Spring Ecosystem
by Eric C. Munscher, Zachary A. Siders, Andrew S. Weber, Jessica Munscher, Madeleine Morrison, Wayne Osborne, Shannon Letcher, Brian P. Butterfield, Michael Skibsted and Andrew D. Walde
Biology 2025, 14(8), 1018; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14081018 (registering DOI) - 7 Aug 2025
Abstract
The Florida softshell turtle, Apalone ferox, is considered common and found in many different types of freshwater habitats throughout its range. However, despite its prevalence where it occurs, little is understood about the species’ life history and population dynamics due to difficulties [...] Read more.
The Florida softshell turtle, Apalone ferox, is considered common and found in many different types of freshwater habitats throughout its range. However, despite its prevalence where it occurs, little is understood about the species’ life history and population dynamics due to difficulties with capture and long-term marking. Building on a foundational study of the Florida softshell turtle at Wekiwa Springs State Park (WSSP) from 2007 to 2012, we present findings from an extended 16-year mark–recapture study spanning from 2007 to 2023. A total of 31 sampling events were conducted with a median of two capture events per year. Sampling events were spread over a median of 5 days each year (range, 2–11 days), with a total of 88 capture days. One hundred and twenty individual A. ferox were captured over 225 encounters. We estimated an average population size of 135.6 individuals using an annual Schumacher–Eschmeyer ratio estimator. Using a state-space Jolly–Seber model, we estimated that 204 individuals entered the population over the 16 years (the superpopulation), while the average current population size was 40 individuals. The median survival probability was 0.884 but the median detection probability was 0.10, reinforcing the perceived difficulty with capturing A. ferox. The continued influx of new juveniles, recapture of these individuals as adults, and strong female bias support the possibility that the WSSP and Rock Springs greater ecosystem functions as a potential nursery habitat for the Florida softshell. Though population estimates dropped 20% following a two-year sampling gap owing to the COVID-19 pandemic, the population is currently growing slowly and highlights the value of continued, long-term monitoring of elusive freshwater turtle species. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wetland Ecosystems (2nd Edition))
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21 pages, 496 KiB  
Review
Improving the Patient Experience in Breast Reconstruction: ERAS and Beyond
by Evan J. Haas, Bilal F. Hamzeh, Zain Aryanpour, Jason W. Yu, David W. Mathes and Christodoulos Kaoutzanis
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(15), 5595; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14155595 (registering DOI) - 7 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Breast reconstruction after mastectomy has been shown to significantly improve psychosocial wellbeing and quality of life. Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols, especially those tailored to breast reconstruction, have revolutionized recovery by reducing complications, pain, opioid use, and hospital [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Breast reconstruction after mastectomy has been shown to significantly improve psychosocial wellbeing and quality of life. Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols, especially those tailored to breast reconstruction, have revolutionized recovery by reducing complications, pain, opioid use, and hospital stay while improving patient satisfaction. The purpose of this narrative review was to present existing practices and supporting evidence within current ERAS protocols, as well as propose a modern ERAS framework centered around enhancing the patient experience following breast reconstruction. Methods: A focused literature search was conducted to identify studies investigating emerging approaches to patient care and surgical techniques adopted as part of a broader ERAS workflow Results: Some recent innovations include digital ERAS tracking, robot-assisted techniques, neurotization, and closed incision negative pressure therapy (ciNPT). These innovations show promise in reducing morbidity following reconstruction and may greatly improve sensory and functional outcomes. These advancements also reflect a shift toward more holistic, patient-centered care, extending beyond immediate clinical needs to address long-term wellbeing through psychosocial support and patient-reported outcome measures. Incorporating tools that validate patient perspectives helps guide interventions to optimize satisfaction and recovery. Conclusions: Future research should aim to standardize ERAS protocols by incorporating evidence-based practices, reinforcing breast reconstruction as a patient-centered, evidence-driven process that is focused on comprehensive recovery and improved quality of life. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current State of the Art in Breast Reconstruction)
12 pages, 1620 KiB  
Article
Maxillary Sinus Puncture: A Traditional Procedure in Decline—Insights from SHIP
by Fabian Paperlein, Johanna Klinger-König, Chia-Jung Busch, Christian Scharf and Achim Georg Beule
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(15), 5578; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14155578 - 7 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background: Maxillary sinus puncture (MSP), once a cornerstone for diagnosing and treating acute rhinosinusitis (ARS), has declined with the rise in less invasive techniques. This study explores MSP trends, its association with age, and long-term effects on quality of life using data from [...] Read more.
Background: Maxillary sinus puncture (MSP), once a cornerstone for diagnosing and treating acute rhinosinusitis (ARS), has declined with the rise in less invasive techniques. This study explores MSP trends, its association with age, and long-term effects on quality of life using data from the Study of Health in Pomerania (SHIP). Methods: Data from SHIP-START-2 (n = 2332), SHIP-START-3 (n = 1717), and SHIP-TREND-0 (n = 4420) cohorts were analyzed to assess MSP prevalence, demographic correlations, and quality- of-life impacts using SNOT-20-D, EQ-5D-3L, and SF-12. Results: MSP prevalence was higher in older SHIP-START cohorts (11.2% in START-2) compared to SHIP-TREND-0 (9.5%), reflecting its historical decline. The procedure was more frequently reported by participants aged > 60 years (e.g., 14.0% in START-2) than by younger groups (<40 years: 3.5% in START-2). MSP was associated with increased SNOT-20-D scores across cohorts (e.g., +0.28 in START-2, p < 0.001) and minor reductions in EQ-5D-3L and SF-12 mental health scores, indicating greater symptom burden but limited general health impact. The age- and time-related decline in MSP highlights its diminishing role in modern practice. Conclusions: While MSP offers diagnostic insights and serves as an indicator for ARS, its modest impact on long-term quality-of-life underscores the need for alternative, minimally invasive techniques for sinonasal conditions. Full article
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28 pages, 3469 KiB  
Review
Prostate Cancer Treatments and Their Effects on Male Fertility: Mechanisms and Mitigation Strategies
by Aris Kaltsas, Nikolaos Razos, Zisis Kratiras, Dimitrios Deligiannis, Marios Stavropoulos, Konstantinos Adamos, Athanasios Zachariou, Fotios Dimitriadis, Nikolaos Sofikitis and Michael Chrisofos
J. Pers. Med. 2025, 15(8), 360; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm15080360 - 7 Aug 2025
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second most frequently diagnosed malignancy in men worldwide. Although traditionally considered a disease of older men, the incidence of early-onset PCa (diagnosis < 55 years) is steadily rising. Advances in screening and therapy have significantly improved survival, creating [...] Read more.
Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second most frequently diagnosed malignancy in men worldwide. Although traditionally considered a disease of older men, the incidence of early-onset PCa (diagnosis < 55 years) is steadily rising. Advances in screening and therapy have significantly improved survival, creating a growing cohort of younger survivors for whom post-treatment quality of life—notably reproductive function—is paramount. Curative treatments such as radical prostatectomy, pelvic radiotherapy, androgen-deprivation therapy (ADT), and chemotherapy often cause irreversible infertility via multiple mechanisms, including surgical disruption of the ejaculatory tract, endocrine suppression of spermatogenesis, direct gonadotoxic injury to the testes, and oxidative sperm DNA damage. Despite these risks, fertility preservation is frequently overlooked in pre-treatment counseling, leaving many patients unaware of their options. This narrative review synthesizes current evidence on how PCa therapies impact male fertility, elucidates the molecular and physiological mechanisms of iatrogenic infertility, and evaluates both established and emerging strategies for fertility preservation and restoration. Key interventions covered include sperm cryopreservation, microsurgical testicular sperm extraction (TESE), and assisted reproductive technologies (ART). Psychosocial factors influencing decision-making, novel biomarkers predictive of post-treatment spermatogenic recovery, and long-term offspring outcomes are also examined. The review underscores the urgent need for timely, multidisciplinary fertility consultation as a routine component of PCa care. As PCa increasingly affects men in their reproductive years, proactively integrating preservation into standard oncologic practice should become a standard survivorship priority. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Advances in Male Genitourinary and Sexual Health)
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19 pages, 371 KiB  
Review
Human Breast Milk as a Biological Matrix for Assessing Maternal and Environmental Exposure to Dioxins and Dioxin-like Polychlorinated Biphenyls: A Narrative Review of Determinants
by Artemisia Kokkinari, Evangelia Antoniou, Kleanthi Gourounti, Maria Dagla, Aikaterini Lykeridou, Stefanos Zervoudis, Eirini Tomara and Georgios Iatrakis
Pollutants 2025, 5(3), 25; https://doi.org/10.3390/pollutants5030025 - 7 Aug 2025
Abstract
(1) Background: Dioxins and dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (dl-PCBs) are persistent organic pollutants (POPs), characterized by high toxicity and strong lipophilicity, which promote their bioaccumulation in human tissues. Their detection in breast milk raises concerns about early-life exposure during lactation. Although dietary intake is [...] Read more.
(1) Background: Dioxins and dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (dl-PCBs) are persistent organic pollutants (POPs), characterized by high toxicity and strong lipophilicity, which promote their bioaccumulation in human tissues. Their detection in breast milk raises concerns about early-life exposure during lactation. Although dietary intake is the primary route of maternal exposure, environmental pathways—including inhalation, dermal absorption, and residential proximity to contaminated sites—may also significantly contribute to the maternal body burden. (2) Methods: This narrative review examined peer-reviewed studies investigating maternal and environmental determinants of dioxin and dl-PCB concentrations in human breast milk. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science (2000–2024), identifying a total of 325 records. Following eligibility screening and full-text assessment, 20 studies met the inclusion criteria. (3) Results: The included studies consistently identified key exposure determinants, such as high consumption of animal-based foods (e.g., meat, fish, dairy), living near industrial facilities or waste sites, and maternal characteristics including age, parity, and body mass index (BMI). Substantial geographic variability was observed, with higher concentrations reported in regions affected by industrial activity, military pollution, or inadequate waste management. One longitudinal study from Japan demonstrated a declining trend in dioxin levels in breast milk, suggesting the potential effectiveness of regulatory interventions. (4) Conclusions: These findings highlight that maternal exposure to dioxins is influenced by identifiable environmental and behavioral factors, which can be mitigated through public health policies, targeted dietary guidance, and environmental remediation. Breast milk remains a critical bioindicator of human exposure. Harmonized, long-term research is needed to clarify health implications and minimize contaminant transfer to infants, particularly among vulnerable populations. Full article
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18 pages, 2161 KiB  
Article
Performance Degradation Behavior and Service Life Prediction of Hydraulic Asphalt Concrete Under Long-Term Water Immersion
by Xinhe Cai, Feng Li, Kangping Li, Zhiyuan Ning and Jing Dong
Materials 2025, 18(15), 3706; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18153706 - 7 Aug 2025
Abstract
Hydraulic asphalt concrete (HAC) is susceptible to performance deterioration under long-term water immersion. This study conducted compressive, tensile, and bending tests on HAC under various immersion times (0–96 h), established a multidimensional performance evaluation method, and developed a service-life prediction model for long-term [...] Read more.
Hydraulic asphalt concrete (HAC) is susceptible to performance deterioration under long-term water immersion. This study conducted compressive, tensile, and bending tests on HAC under various immersion times (0–96 h), established a multidimensional performance evaluation method, and developed a service-life prediction model for long-term water immersion. The average relative error between test values and predicted values was less than 5%, validating the model’s effectiveness and applicability. Results indicate that the rate of mechanical property degradation exhibits stage-dependent characteristics with immersion time, and the water damage resistance of alkaline aggregate is significantly superior to that of acidic aggregate. The predictive model shows that after 192 h of immersion, the retention rate of key mechanical properties for the alkaline aggregate reaches 92.71%, while that for acidic aggregate was only 73.85%. This study establishes a predictive model that provides a theoretical basis for assessing the lifespan of HAC under long-term immersion conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Material Characterization and Pavement Modeling)
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14 pages, 1554 KiB  
Article
Cytokinin Potentials on In Vitro Shoot Proliferation and Subsequent Rooting of Agave sisalana Perr. Syn
by Mayada K. Seliem, Neama Abdalla and Mohammed E. El-Mahrouk
Horticulturae 2025, 11(8), 929; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11080929 - 6 Aug 2025
Abstract
Agave species are plants with great economic value and multiple possibilities of use as ornamentals, medicinal plants, and fibers, as well as being significant sources of bioethanol. However, their long life cycles hinder their conventional breeding. Therefore, biotechnology tools are the most effective [...] Read more.
Agave species are plants with great economic value and multiple possibilities of use as ornamentals, medicinal plants, and fibers, as well as being significant sources of bioethanol. However, their long life cycles hinder their conventional breeding. Therefore, biotechnology tools are the most effective means for clonal propagation and genetic improvement. In vitro micropropagation of A. sisalana via axillary shoot proliferation from bulbil explants was attained using Murashige and Skoog medium (MS) supplemented with cytokinins (CKs), such as 6-benzyladenine (BA), kinetin (KIN), or thidiazuron (TDZ). The optimum significant shoot proliferation (14.67 shoots/explant) was achieved on 1.0 mg L−1 TDZ. The carry-over effect of CKs on subsequent rooting could be detected. Control and KIN treatments could enhance the rooting of shoots on shoot proliferation media. The regenerated plantlets were acclimatized directly with 100% survival. To mitigate this carry-over effect, that causes hindering further root growth and development, and promote healthy growth of roots, subculturing shoots onto a CK-free medium is a recommended practice. The shoots induced on all BA treatments, and TDZ at 0.5 and 1.0 mg L−1 could be rooted after two subcultures on CK-free medium, then they were acclimatized with 100% survival. However, the higher concentrations of TDZ inhibited in vitro rooting even after two subcultures on CK-free medium, and the acclimatization percentage was reduced by increasing the TDZ concentration recorded from 10 to 0%. Full article
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6 pages, 196 KiB  
Brief Report
One-Shot, One Opportunity: Retrospective Observational Study on Long-Acting Antibiotics for SSTIs in the Emergency Room—A Real-Life Experience
by Giacomo Ciusa, Giuseppe Pipitone, Alessandro Mancuso, Stefano Agrenzano, Claudia Imburgia, Agostino Massimo Geraci, Alberto D’Alcamo, Luisa Moscarelli, Antonio Cascio and Chiara Iaria
Pathogens 2025, 14(8), 781; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens14080781 - 6 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background: Skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs) are a major cause of emergency room (ER) visits and hospitalizations. Long-acting lipoglycopeptides (LALs), such as dalbavancin and oritavancin, offer potential for early discharge and outpatient management, especially in patients at risk for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus [...] Read more.
Background: Skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs) are a major cause of emergency room (ER) visits and hospitalizations. Long-acting lipoglycopeptides (LALs), such as dalbavancin and oritavancin, offer potential for early discharge and outpatient management, especially in patients at risk for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) or with comorbidities. Methods: We conducted a retrospective observational cohort study from March to December 2024 in an Italian tertiary-care hospital. Adult patients treated in the ER with a single dose of dalbavancin (1500 mg) or oritavancin (1200 mg) for SSTIs were included. Demographic, clinical, and laboratory data were collected. Follow-up evaluations were performed at 14 and 30 days post-treatment to assess outcomes. Results: Nineteen patients were enrolled (median age 59 years; 53% female). Most had lower limb involvement and elevated inflammatory markers. Three patients (16%) were septic. Fourteen patients (74%) were discharged without hospital admission; hospitalization in the remaining cases was due to comorbidities rather than SSTI severity. No adverse drug reactions were observed. At 14 days, 84% of patients had clinical resolution; only 10% had recurrence by day 30, with no mortality nor readmission reported. Conclusions: LALs appear effective and well-tolerated in the ER setting, supporting early discharge and reducing healthcare burden. Broader use may require structured care pathways and multidisciplinary coordination. Full article
9 pages, 838 KiB  
Review
Merging Neuroscience and Engineering Through Regenerative Peripheral Nerve Interfaces
by Melanie J. Wang, Theodore A. Kung, Alison K. Snyder-Warwick and Paul S. Cederna
Prosthesis 2025, 7(4), 97; https://doi.org/10.3390/prosthesis7040097 - 6 Aug 2025
Abstract
Approximately 185,000 people in the United states experience limb loss each year. There is a need for an intuitive neural interface that can offer high-fidelity control signals to optimize the advanced functionality of prosthetic devices. Regenerative peripheral nerve interface (RPNI) is a pioneering [...] Read more.
Approximately 185,000 people in the United states experience limb loss each year. There is a need for an intuitive neural interface that can offer high-fidelity control signals to optimize the advanced functionality of prosthetic devices. Regenerative peripheral nerve interface (RPNI) is a pioneering advancement in neuroengineering that combines surgical techniques with biocompatible materials to create an interface for individuals with limb loss. RPNIs are surgically constructed from autologous muscle grafts that are neurotized by the residual peripheral nerves of an individual with limb loss. RPNIs amplify neural signals and demonstrate long term stability. In this narrative review, the terms “Regenerative Peripheral Nerve Interface (RPNI)” and “RPNI surgery” are used interchangeably to refer to the same surgical and biological construct. This narrative review specifically focuses on RPNIs as a targeted approach to enhance prosthetic control through surgically created nerve–muscle interfaces. This area of research offers a promising solution to overcome the limitations of existing prosthetic control systems and could help improve the quality of life for people suffering from limb loss. It allows for multi-channel control and bidirectional communication, while enhancing the functionality of prosthetics through improved sensory feedback. RPNI surgery holds significant promise for improving the quality of life for individuals with limb loss by providing a more intuitive and responsive prosthetic experience. Full article
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9 pages, 351 KiB  
Article
Button Cystostomy in Children with Neurogenic Bladder: Outcomes from a Single Center
by Michela Galati, Rebecca Pulvirenti, Ida Barretta, Noemi Deanesi, Chiara Pellegrino, Antonio Maria Zaccara, Maria Luisa Capitanucci and Giovanni Mosiello
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(15), 5532; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14155532 - 6 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background: Neurogenic bladder (NB) in children may lead to recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs), renal deterioration, and a reduced quality of life. Clean intermittent catheterization (CIC) is the standard of care, but in some patients, CIC may be unfeasible due to anatomical, [...] Read more.
Background: Neurogenic bladder (NB) in children may lead to recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs), renal deterioration, and a reduced quality of life. Clean intermittent catheterization (CIC) is the standard of care, but in some patients, CIC may be unfeasible due to anatomical, sensory, or compliance issues. Button cystostomy (BC) has emerged as a minimally invasive, bladder-preserving alternative. This study aimed to assess the feasibility, safety, and outcomes in the long-term of BC in pediatric NB patients. Methods: Retrospective analysis was conducted on children with NB who underwent endoscopic BC placement between January 2020 and December 2024 in a tertiary pediatric center. Demographic data, operative time, complications, and follow-up outcomes were collected. All procedures used an endoscopic approach with cystoscopic guidance for safe device placement. Results: Thirty-three patients (25 males; median age 7.96 years) underwent BC placement. Most had spinal dysraphism (63.6%). The mean operative time was 48.5 ± 6 min. During a mean follow-up of 2.1 ± 1.4 years, five patients (15.2%) had febrile UTIs and two had minor leakage. No major complications occurred. Four buttons were removed due to clinical improvement (N = 1), the fashioning of a continent derivation (N = 1) and implantation of a sacral neuromodulator (N = 2); two patients accepted CIC. Satisfaction was reported by 93.9% of families. Conclusions: BC is an effective, minimally invasive alternative for urinary drainage in children with NB, even when compared to continent diversion techniques such as the Mitrofanoff, due to its lower invasiveness, greater feasibility, and lower complication rate. Broader adoption may be warranted, but prospective studies are needed to confirm long-term outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Reconstructive Urology and Prosthetic Surgery)
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