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Keywords = rehabilitation (MeSH)

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13 pages, 2448 KiB  
Article
Pelvic Floor Functionality and Outcomes in Oncologic Patients Treated with Pelvic Bone Resection
by Edoardo Ipponi, Pier Luigi Ipponi, Fabrizia Gentili, Elena Bechini, Vittoria Bettarini, Paolo Domenico Parchi and Lorenzo Andreani
Cancers 2025, 17(16), 2629; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17162629 - 12 Aug 2025
Viewed by 238
Abstract
Background: Pelvic resections represent some of the most challenging procedures in orthopedic oncology, often necessitating the sacrifice of large bone segments and, subsequently, the loss of nearby soft tissues. Our study aims to evaluate the impact of surgical resections of pelvic bone tumors [...] Read more.
Background: Pelvic resections represent some of the most challenging procedures in orthopedic oncology, often necessitating the sacrifice of large bone segments and, subsequently, the loss of nearby soft tissues. Our study aims to evaluate the impact of surgical resections of pelvic bone tumors on the performance of the pelvic floor and digestive, urinary, and genital systems. Methods: We evaluated all malignant or locally aggressive pelvic bone tumors treated with bone resection in our institution between January 2017 and January 2024. The reconstructive approaches were recorded. Pre- and post-operative MRI and CT scans were used to evaluate the grade of pelvic prolapse. The prolapse of the pelvic floor was assessed with the M-line, the H-line, and the anorectal angle. Hydronephrosis was also evaluated. Urinary and fecal incontinence were evaluated with the Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire (PFIQ7). Results: Thirty cases were included in our study. Nine cases were treated with custom-made prostheses, five had ice-cone prostheses, two massive allografts, and one composite allograft-prosthesis. The others had no bone reconstruction. Meshes were used to reconstruct the pelvic floor in 9 cases. Patients with discontinuity of the pelvic ring had a significantly higher grade of pelvic prolapse (M-line) and worse PFIQ7 scores. Conclusions: The resection of pelvic bone tumors represents one of the main challenges in orthopedic oncology. While planning surgical demolition and performing the subsequent reconstruction, surgeons should also consider the impact of the surgical treatment on the pelvic floor and surrounding organs. Intra-operative reconstructions and post-operative rehabilitation are advisable. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sarcoma Management in Orthopaedic Oncology)
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12 pages, 6846 KiB  
Case Report
A Second Chance: Managing Late Implant Failure from Peri-Implantitis with Computer-Guided Bone Regeneration—A Clinical Case Report
by Marco Tallarico, Silvio Mario Meloni, Carlotta Cacciò, Francesco Mattia Ceruso and Aurea Immacolata Lumbau
Reports 2025, 8(3), 118; https://doi.org/10.3390/reports8030118 - 22 Jul 2025
Viewed by 429
Abstract
Background and Clinical Significance: The retreatment of failed dental implants remains a challenging clinical scenario, particularly when complicated by peri-implantitis and as sociated bone loss. Successful management requires a comprehensive and predictable approach that addresses both hard and soft tissue deficiencies. Case [...] Read more.
Background and Clinical Significance: The retreatment of failed dental implants remains a challenging clinical scenario, particularly when complicated by peri-implantitis and as sociated bone loss. Successful management requires a comprehensive and predictable approach that addresses both hard and soft tissue deficiencies. Case Presentation: This case report illustrates a fully digital, prosthetically driven workflow for the rehabilitation of a posterior mandibular site following implant failure. A 44-year-old female patient underwent removal of a failing implant and adjacent tooth due to advanced peri-implantitis and periodontitis. After healing, a digital workflow—including intraoral scanning, cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), and virtual planning—was employed to design and fabricate a customized CAD/CAM titanium mesh for vertical guided bone regeneration. The grafting procedure utilized a composite mixture of autogenous bone and anorganic bovine bone (A-Oss). After nine months of healing, two implants with a hydrophilic surface (SOI) were placed using a fully guided surgical protocol (OneGuide system). Subsequent soft tissue grafting and final prosthetic rehabilitation with monolithic zirconia restorations resulted in stable functional and aesthetic outcomes. Conclusions: This case highlights how the integration of modern digital technologies with advanced regenerative procedures and innovative implant surfaces can enhance the predictability and long-term success of implant retreatment in compromised posterior sites. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Dentistry/Oral Medicine)
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17 pages, 607 KiB  
Systematic Review
Incorporating Orthodontics in Maxillofacial Prosthetic Rehabilitation Following Tumor-Ablative Surgery: A Systematic Review
by Nikolaos Gavounelis, Heleni Vastardis and Ioli Ioanna Artopoulou
Prosthesis 2025, 7(4), 81; https://doi.org/10.3390/prosthesis7040081 - 11 Jul 2025
Viewed by 430
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The aim of this systematic review was to identify the role of orthodontics in patients undergoing tumor-ablative surgery, in collaboration with maxillofacial prosthodontic rehabilitation in a multidisciplinary fashion. Methods: This systematic review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The aim of this systematic review was to identify the role of orthodontics in patients undergoing tumor-ablative surgery, in collaboration with maxillofacial prosthodontic rehabilitation in a multidisciplinary fashion. Methods: This systematic review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) database (CRD42024582050). The focused question was constructed using the PICO (participant, intervention, comparison, and outcome) approach. A three-stage search was performed in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science using Medical Subject Heading (MeSH) terms. To assess the risk of bias, the National Institute of Health (NIH) “Quality Assessment Tool for case series/reports” was used. All data was synthesized qualitatively, according to the Synthesis Without Meta-analysis (SWiM) reporting guideline. Results: The initial search yielded 624 articles, of which 22 met the inclusion criteria after screening and eligibility assessment, with most being single-patient case reports and one case series involving 12 patients. The included studies primarily involved tumors in the mandible (64.5%) and maxilla (32.3%). Orthodontic treatment was initiated at various time points, ranging from one month pre-surgery to 19 years post-surgery, primarily utilizing fixed appliances (77.8%). In some studies, orthodontic appliances were used to enhance the stability of maxillofacial prostheses. The results of this study indicate that orthodontic treatment may facilitate prosthetic rehabilitation by improving conditions prior to prosthetic intervention and increasing the retention of the obturator prosthesis. Conclusions: Orthodontic treatment can enhance maxillofacial prosthetic rehabilitation after tumor-ablative surgery by optimizing jaw growth, improving occlusion, and facilitating prosthetic retention or space creation. Further research is needed to establish treatment guidelines. Orthodontic miniscrews may improve temporary prosthesis retention before final implant placement, when indicated. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Prosthodontics)
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22 pages, 2157 KiB  
Article
A GIS Approach to Modeling the Ecological Niche of an Ecotype of Bouteloua curtipendula (Michx.) Torr. in Mexican Grasslands
by Alma Delia Baez-Gonzalez, Jose Miguel Prieto-Rivero, Alan Alvarez-Holguin, Alicia Melgoza-Castillo, Mario Humberto Royo-Marquez and Jesus Manuel Ochoa-Rivero
Plants 2025, 14(14), 2090; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14142090 - 8 Jul 2025
Viewed by 417
Abstract
The reliance on imported seeds for grassland rehabilitation in Mexico has led to increased costs and other difficulties in implementing grassland rehabilitation programs. Varieties need to be generated from local ecotypes that are outstanding in forage production and their response to rehabilitation programs. [...] Read more.
The reliance on imported seeds for grassland rehabilitation in Mexico has led to increased costs and other difficulties in implementing grassland rehabilitation programs. Varieties need to be generated from local ecotypes that are outstanding in forage production and their response to rehabilitation programs. However, the scarcity of occurrence records is often a deterrent to niche and distribution modeling, hence the need for an approach that overcomes such limitations. The objectives of this study were (1) to develop a geographic information system (GIS)-based approach to determining the population distribution of a promising ecotype of Bouteloua curtipendula (Michx.) Torr. for grassland rehabilitation in the Chihuahuan Desert, Mexico; (2) to identify the edaphoclimatic variables that define the ecotype’s distribution; and (3) to develop models to determine the potential area for the use of the ecotype in grassland rehabilitation. The challenge for the present study was that only one georeferenced collection site of the ecotype in Chihuahua was available for use in the construction and calibration of the models. GIS software 10.3 was used to develop two potential distribution models: Model A, with variables obtained directly from a vector climate dataset, and Model B, with derived variables. A field work methodology was developed for the validation process using a georeferenced digital mesh and the nested sampling method modified by Whittaker. The information was analyzed with 10 non-parametric statistical tests. The two models had an overall accuracy and sensitivity level greater than 70% and a positive predictive power greater than 80%. The predicted population distribution areas in Chihuahua (18,158 ha) in the form of discontinuous patches cohered with those in previous reports on the distribution form of B. curtipendula. The edaphoclimatic variables influencing ecotype distribution were soil type, average minimum and maximum temperature in January, average maximum temperature in June, average minimum temperature in July, and average precipitation in August. The sensitivity analysis showed soil type as an important variable in defining the ecotype’s distribution. Considering soil as the main predictor variable, the potential rehabilitation area where the ecotype may be used was estimated at 7,181,735 ha in the Chihuahuan Desert region. The study developed and validated an approach to modeling the ecological niche of an ecotype of commercial interest, despite severe limitations in the number of georeferenced sites available for modeling. Further study is needed to explore its applicability to grassland rehabilitation in the Chihuahuan Desert and the study of rare and understudied ecotypes or species in other settings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Modeling)
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12 pages, 489 KiB  
Systematic Review
Technologies and Auditory Rehabilitation Beyond Hearing Aids: An Exploratory Systematic Review
by María Camila Pinzón-Díaz, Oswal Martínez-Moreno, Natalia Marcela Castellanos-Gómez, Viviana Cardona-Posada, Frank Florez-Montes, Johnatan Vallejo-Cardona and Luis Carlos Correa-Ortiz
Audiol. Res. 2025, 15(4), 80; https://doi.org/10.3390/audiolres15040080 - 3 Jul 2025
Viewed by 741
Abstract
Background: Traditionally, auditory rehabilitation in people with hearing loss has sought training in auditory skills to achieve an understanding of sound messages for communication. Assistive or supportive technology is limited to hearing aids that transmit sound through the air or bone to be [...] Read more.
Background: Traditionally, auditory rehabilitation in people with hearing loss has sought training in auditory skills to achieve an understanding of sound messages for communication. Assistive or supportive technology is limited to hearing aids that transmit sound through the air or bone to be used by the individual, and only in recent times have technologies for rehabilitation, of high cost and difficult access, begun to be used, employed by audiology professionals. Objective: The objective of this study was to compile the evidence reported in the literature on the use of technology in auditory rehabilitation for the improvement of hearing skills in people with hearing loss, beyond hearing aids and cochlear implants. Method: A systematic review of the literature was conducted between 2018 and 2024 in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases, using as search terms Technology AND “Auditory Rehabilitation” validated in DeCS and MeSH thesauri; the PICO method was used to propose the research question, and the PRISMA strategy was used for the inclusion or exclusion of the articles to be reviewed. Results: In the first search, 141 documents were obtained. Subsequently, inclusion criteria, such as development with vibrotactile stimulation, Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs), among others, and exclusion criteria, such as those related to cochlear implants and air conduction hearing aids, were applied, and finally, articles related to natural language processing, and other systematic reviews were excluded so that the database was reduced to 14 documents. To this set, due to their relevance, two papers were added, for a total of sixteen analyzed. Conclusions: There are solutions ranging from the use of smartphones for telehealth to solutions with multiple technologies, such as the development of virtual environments with vibrotactile feedback. Hearing-impaired people and even professionals in this area of healthcare have a high level of acceptance of the use of technology in rehabilitation. Finally, this article highlights the crucial role of technology in auditory rehabilitation, with solutions that improve hearing skills and the positive acceptance of these tools by patients and audiology professionals. Full article
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33 pages, 519 KiB  
Systematic Review
Impact of Oncological Treatment on Quality of Life in Patients with Head and Neck Malignancies: A Systematic Literature Review (2020–2025)
by Raluca Grigore, Paula Luiza Bejenaru, Gloria Simona Berteșteanu, Ruxandra Ioana Nedelcu-Stancalie, Teodora Elena Schipor-Diaconu, Simona Andreea Rujan, Bianca Petra Taher, Șerban Vifor Gabriel Berteșteanu, Bogdan Popescu, Irina Doinița Popescu, Alexandru Nicolaescu, Anca Ionela Cîrstea and Catrinel Beatrice Simion-Antonie
Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(7), 379; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32070379 - 30 Jun 2025
Viewed by 593
Abstract
Background: Quality of life (QoL) is a critical indicator in assessing the success of oncological treatments for head and neck malignancies, reflecting their impact on physiological functions and psychosocial well-being beyond mere survival. Treatments (surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy) pose multiple functional and emotional [...] Read more.
Background: Quality of life (QoL) is a critical indicator in assessing the success of oncological treatments for head and neck malignancies, reflecting their impact on physiological functions and psychosocial well-being beyond mere survival. Treatments (surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy) pose multiple functional and emotional challenges, and recent advancements underscore the necessity of evaluating post-treatment QoL. Objective: This literature review investigates the impact of oncological treatment on the QoL of patients with malignant head and neck cancers (oral, oropharyngeal, hypopharyngeal, laryngeal) and identifies factors influencing their QoL index. Methodology: Using a PICO framework, studies from PubMed Central were analyzed, selected based on inclusion (English publications, full text, PROM results) and exclusion criteria. The last research was conducted on 6 April 2025. From 231 identified studies, 49 were included after applying filters (MeSH: “Quality of Life,” “laryngeal cancer,” “oral cavity cancer,” etc.). Data were organized in Excel, and the methodology adhered to PRISMA standards. Results: Treatment Impact: Oncological treatments significantly affect QoL, with acute post-treatment declines in functions such as speech, swallowing, and emotional well-being (anxiety, depression). Partial recovery depends on rehabilitative interventions. Influencing Factors: Treatment type, disease stage, socioeconomic, and demographic contexts influence QoL. De-escalated treatments and prompt rehabilitation improve recovery, while complications like trismus, dysphagia, or persistent hearing issues reduce long-term QoL. Assessment Tools: Standardized PROM questionnaires (EORTC QLQ-C30, QLQ-H&N35, MDADI, HADS) highlighted QoL variations. Studies from Europe, North America, and Asia indicate regional differences in outcomes. Limitations: Retrospective designs, small sample sizes, and PROM variability limit generalizability. Multicentric studies with extended follow-up are recommended. Conclusions: Oncological treatments for head and neck malignancies have a complex impact on QoL, necessitating personalized and multidisciplinary strategies. De-escalated therapies, early rehabilitation, and continuous monitoring are essential for optimizing functional and psychosocial outcomes. Methodological gaps highlight the need for standardized research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Head and Neck Oncology)
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23 pages, 19248 KiB  
Article
Behavior of Self-Compacting Concrete Cylinders Internally Confined with Various Types of Composite Grids
by Aboubakeur Boukhelkhal, Benchaa Benabed, Rajab Abousnina and Vanissorn Vimonsatit
Buildings 2025, 15(8), 1286; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15081286 - 14 Apr 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 531
Abstract
Composite grids serve as reinforcement in concrete structures, offering alternatives to conventional steel reinforcement. These grids can be fabricated from various materials, including synthetic polymers, metals, and natural fibers. This study explores the use of composite grids as lateral confinement of self-compacting concrete [...] Read more.
Composite grids serve as reinforcement in concrete structures, offering alternatives to conventional steel reinforcement. These grids can be fabricated from various materials, including synthetic polymers, metals, and natural fibers. This study explores the use of composite grids as lateral confinement of self-compacting concrete (SCC) cylinders and examines their impact on the failure mode under axial compression. In the experiment, the types of grids and mesh shapes used were plastic grids of diamond mesh (PGD) and regular mesh (PGT), metallic grids of diamond mesh (MGD) and square mesh (MGS), vegetable grids of Alfa fiber mesh, 10 × 10 mm (VGAF-1) and 20 × 20 mm (VGAF-2), and vegetable grids of date palm fibers (VGDF). The binder of SCC mixtures incorporated 10% marble powder as a partial replacement for ordinary Portland cement (OPC). SCC mixtures were tested in the fresh state by measuring the slump flow diameter, V-funnel flow time, L-box blocking ratio, and segregation index. Cylinders with a diameter of 160 mm and a height of 320 mm were made to assess the mechanical properties of hardened SCC mixtures under axial compression. The results indicate that most of the confined cylinders exhibited an increase in ductility compared to unconfined cylinders. Grid types MGD and PGD provided the best performance, with ductility increases of 100.33% and 96.45%, respectively. VGAF-2 cylinders had greater compressive strength than cylinders with other grid types. The findings revealed that the type and mesh shape of the grids affects the failure mode of confined cylinders, but has minimal influence on their modulus of elasticity. This study highlights the potential of lateral grid confinement as a technique for rehabilitating, strengthening, and reinforcing weaker structural concrete elements, thereby improving their mechanical properties and extending the service life of building structures. Full article
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11 pages, 680 KiB  
Review
Effects of Oxygen–Ozone Injections in Upper Limb Disorders: Scoping Review
by Gianpaolo Ronconi, Ariani Mariantonietta, Sefora Codazza, Alberto Cutaia, Alessandra Zeni, Lucia Forastiere, Giorgio Ferriero and Paola Emilia Ferrara
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(7), 2452; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14072452 - 3 Apr 2025
Viewed by 1261
Abstract
Background: Ozone therapy is used for its immunomodulatory, antioxidant, and analgesic properties in several fields. It can be useful in the rehabilitation of musculoskeletal disorders. Studies showed that O2-O3 therapy can reduce pain and improve functioning in patients affected by [...] Read more.
Background: Ozone therapy is used for its immunomodulatory, antioxidant, and analgesic properties in several fields. It can be useful in the rehabilitation of musculoskeletal disorders. Studies showed that O2-O3 therapy can reduce pain and improve functioning in patients affected by low back pain and knee osteoarthritis. Only a few studies have been published about the efficacy of this treatment in upper limb disease. Objective: The aim of this study is to investigate the use of ozone therapy in upper limb pathologies, evaluating its quantity, quality, and reported results in upper limb musculoskeletal disease, supraspinatus tendinopathy, shoulder impingement, adhesive capsulitis, chronic epicondylitis, and carpal tunnel syndrome. O2-O3 reduces inflammation by stimulating anti-inflammatory cytokines and inactivating pro-inflammatory molecules, relieves pain by interacting with pain receptors and improving blood circulation, promotes the regeneration of damaged tissues by stimulating growth factors and improving vascularization, and, finally, activates endogenous antioxidant defense systems by protecting cells from oxidative damage. Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted on PubMed and Scopus using the following MeSH terms: ozone therapy, infiltration joint, musculoskeletal disease, rehabilitation, upper limb, shoulder, wrist, hand, elbow, including English papers published in the last five years. Results: Five papers have been selected: four randomized controlled trials and one retrospective cohort study. The RCTs compared the effectiveness of intra-articular ozone injection with steroid injection alone or with other conservative treatments in shoulder diseases; one paper studied the effectiveness of ozone injection and orthoses in carpal tunnel syndrome compared to orthoses alone; one paper used ozone injections compared with steroid injection in patients with chronic lateral epicondylitis. A total of 218 patients were studied in these trials. Conclusions: Ozone treatment seemed to improve pain and function as well as other therapies in upper limb musculoskeletal disease. However, the trials’ protocols and the upper limb areas treated are different. Further studies are needed to define the effectiveness of ozone therapy in upper limb diseases in rehabilitation fields. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Orthopedics)
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24 pages, 4613 KiB  
Article
Physicochemical Aspects Regarding the Sustainable Conversion of Carwash Slurry as Coverage Admixture for Landfills
by Simona Elena Avram, Lucian Barbu Tudoran, Gheorghe Borodi, Miuta Rafila Filip, Irina Ciotlaus and Ioan Petean
Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 2906; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17072906 - 25 Mar 2025
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 525
Abstract
Transport and vehicle traffic are closely connected with particulate matter (PM) pollution, inducing various fractions into the atmosphere, some of them forming significant deposits on the surface of the car. They are washed away during carwash-inducing slurries collecting the PM deposits, which are [...] Read more.
Transport and vehicle traffic are closely connected with particulate matter (PM) pollution, inducing various fractions into the atmosphere, some of them forming significant deposits on the surface of the car. They are washed away during carwash-inducing slurries collecting the PM deposits, which are characteristic of a large area. Crystalline PM matter was investigated by XRD coupled with polarized optical microscopy (POM). Organic matters were investigated by Fourier-Transform Infrared spectrometry (FTIR) and gas chromatography, GC-MS. Their microstructure and elemental composition were investigated by SEM-EDX. The crystalline features contain mainly quartz, calcite, and clay (muscovite and kaolinite) particles having traces of goethite and lepidocrocite. Slurry particle size distribution was established by sieving on the following meshes: 63 µm, 125 µm, 250 µm, 500 µm, 1000 µm, 2000 µm, and 4000 µm. Coarse fractions of 250–4000 μm are dominated by quartz and calcite particles. The quartz and calcite amount decreases with particle size, while the muscovite and kaolinite amount increases in the finest fractions of 0–125 μm. Organic matter was evidenced, firstly, by FTIR spectroscopy, revealing mostly CH2; C=O, and NH4 bonds that are more intense for the fine particulate fractions. The organic deposits form mainly amorphous crusts associated with micro- and nano-plastic particles related to the phthalates and traces of the washing detergents. Atomic Force Microscopy revealed their size range between 60 and 90 nm and evidenced nanoparticles within samples. The nanofractions adhere to the bigger particles in humid environments, assuring their immobilization to reduce their hazardous potential. Carwash slurry blending with fertile soil ensures proper grass seed germination and growth at mixtures of up to 60% slurry, allowing its sustainable reconversion as soil for landfill and dump rehabilitation, preventing the PM emission hazard. Blended compositions containing more than 60% slurry have noxious effects on the grass seeds, inhibiting their germination. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Control of Traffic-Related Emissions to Improve Air Quality)
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19 pages, 10945 KiB  
Article
Assessment of Fishery By-Products for Immobilization of Arsenic and Heavy Metals in Contaminated Soil and Evaluation of Heavy Metal Uptake in Crops
by Se Hyun Park, Sang Hyeop Park and Deok Hyun Moon
Agronomy 2025, 15(2), 423; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15020423 - 7 Feb 2025
Viewed by 720
Abstract
The contamination of soil with arsenic (As) and heavy metal is an increasing global environmental concern. The objective of this study was to rehabilitate soil contaminated with As, Pb, and Zn using fishery by-products as stabilizers to achieve both soil restoration and waste [...] Read more.
The contamination of soil with arsenic (As) and heavy metal is an increasing global environmental concern. The objective of this study was to rehabilitate soil contaminated with As, Pb, and Zn using fishery by-products as stabilizers to achieve both soil restoration and waste resource recycling. Cockle shells (CS) and manila clam shells (MC), selected as fishery by-product stabilizers, were processed into −#10-mesh and −#20-mesh materials. Additionally, a −#10-mesh material was calcined at a high temperature to produce calcined cockle shells (CCS) and calcined manila clam shells (CMC). Contaminated soil was treated with 2–10 wt% of these stabilizers and subjected to wet incubation for 1–4 weeks. Subsequently, the concentrations of As, Pb, and Zn eluted by 0.1 M HCl were evaluated. Additionally, lettuce was grown in stabilized soil to evaluate the reduction in contaminant mobility. The stabilization treatment results indicated that the concentrations of eluted As, Pb, and Zn were significantly reduced when treated with the −#10-mesh and −#20-mesh CS and MC, and they were rarely detected when treated with the calcined materials (CCS and CMC). The Pb concentration in lettuce grown in the contaminated soil pot exceeded the criterion for leafy vegetables (0.3 mg/kg); however, Pb was not detected in lettuce from the stabilized soil pot. An X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed that CaCO3, the main component of CS and MC, was converted to CaO after calcination. Scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX) and SEM elemental dot map analyses revealed that the immobilization of As was related to Ca–As precipitation and the immobilization of Pb and Zn to the pozzolanic reaction. Thus, recycling and processing CS and MC as stabilizers for contaminated soil can restore the agricultural value of the soil by immobilizing As, Pb, and Zn into safe forms, thus effectively preventing their uptake by crops. Full article
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15 pages, 1050 KiB  
Review
The Otoacoustic Emissions in the Universal Neonatal Hearing Screening: An Update on the European Data (2004 to 2024)
by Stavros Hatzopoulos, Ludovica Cardinali, Piotr Henryk Skarżyński and Giovanna Zimatore
Children 2024, 11(11), 1276; https://doi.org/10.3390/children11111276 - 23 Oct 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2025
Abstract
Background: The reported data on European universal neonatal hearing screening (UNHS) practices tend to be scarce, despite the fact that the European Union project, EUScreen, collected unofficial data from 38 collaborating European institutions. The objectives of this systematic review were as follows: (a) [...] Read more.
Background: The reported data on European universal neonatal hearing screening (UNHS) practices tend to be scarce, despite the fact that the European Union project, EUScreen, collected unofficial data from 38 collaborating European institutions. The objectives of this systematic review were as follows: (a) to identify the most recent (in a 20-year span) literature information about UNHS programs in Europe and (b) to provide data on the procedures used to assess the population, the intervention policies, and on the estimated prevalence of congenital hearing loss with emphasis on the bilateral hearing loss cases. Methods: Queries were conducted via the Pubmed, Scopus and Google Scholar databases for the time period of 2004–2024. The Mesh terms used were “OAE”, “Universal Neonatal Hearing Screening”, “congenital hearing loss” and “well babies”. Only research articles and review papers of European origin were considered good candidates. The standard English language filter was not used, in order to identify information from non-English-speaking scientific communities and groups. Results: Very few data and reports were identified in the literature search. Eleven manuscripts were identified corresponding to eight UNHS programs. Except in Poland, most of the data refer to regional and not national programs. The screening coverage estimates of all programs exceed 90%; infants were mostly assessed by a three-stage protocol (TEOAE + TEOAE + AABR), followed by a clinical ABR test. The average prevalence (i.e., from well babies AND NICU infants) of bilateral hearing loss ranged from 0.5 to 20.94 per 1000 (Zurich sample). Infants presenting unilateral or bilateral hearing losses were first rehabilitated by hearing aids and consequently (>15 mo) by cochlear implants. Conclusions: Even though UNHS programs are well-established clinical practices in the European States, the amount of information in the literature about these programs is surprising low. The existing data in the timespan 2004–2024 corroborate the international UNHS data in terms of coverage and bilateral hearing loss prevalence, but there is a strong need to supplement the existing information with the latest developments, especially in the area of hearing loss rehabilitation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Congenital Hearing Loss in Children)
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13 pages, 384 KiB  
Review
Modular Universal Tumor and Revision System Prostheses in Patients with Bone Cancer of the Lower Limbs: A Narrative Review of Functional Outcomes
by Paola E. Ferrara, Mariantonietta Ariani, Sefora Codazza, Adelaide Aprovitola, Daniele Polisano and Gianpaolo Ronconi
Cancers 2024, 16(19), 3357; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16193357 - 30 Sep 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1518
Abstract
The optimal management of bone tumors requires a multidisciplinary strategy to guarantee high-quality care. At specialized centers, the medical team responsible for managing patients with bone cancer comprises oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, pathologists, and rehabilitation specialists. The goal of treatment is to achieve long-term [...] Read more.
The optimal management of bone tumors requires a multidisciplinary strategy to guarantee high-quality care. At specialized centers, the medical team responsible for managing patients with bone cancer comprises oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, pathologists, and rehabilitation specialists. The goal of treatment is to achieve long-term survival with minimal disability and pain. Postoperative rehabilitation is a fundamental therapeutic approach to enhance functionality and sustain the utmost quality of life following a limb-sparing surgery. Currently, megaprostheses are used for reconstructing bone defects after tumor resection, but in the literature, only a few studies have investigated rehabilitation outcomes in terms of functionality and impact on daily activities. This narrative review explores the functional and quality of life outcomes after the implantation of MUTARS® prostheses in patients with lower extremity bone tumors. A comprehensive search was conducted on PubMed and Scopus using the following MESH terms: “MUTARS”, “Megaprosthesis”, “bone”, “tumors”, “metastasis”, “lower limb”, “rehabilitation”, “outcome”, and “quality of life”, and 10 studies were included. The most frequent oncological pathology was found to be primitive bone tumors treated with modular prostheses. The outcome measures used were the Henderson et al. classification, Harris Hip Scale, Musculoskeletal Tumor Society score, Visual Analog Scale, Range Of Motion, Karnofsky Performance Scale, and quality of life questionnaire. MUTARS® is a well-established treatment option after bone tumor resection, although it involves extensive and complex post-resection reconstruction that exposes joints and tissues to substantial mechanical stress. Proper rehabilitation after MUTARS® surgery is a fundamental therapeutic step, although there is still insufficient evidence in the literature focusing on functional and rehabilitative outcomes. Therefore, more studies and guidelines are needed to define standardized rehabilitation protocols for clinical practice after orthopedic oncologic surgery. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cancer Metastasis)
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52 pages, 1438 KiB  
Review
Customized 3D-Printed Mesh, Membrane, Bone Substitute, and Dental Implant Applied to Guided Bone Regeneration in Oral Implantology: A Narrative Review
by Federica Di Spirito, Francesco Giordano, Maria Pia Di Palo, Cosimo Ferraro, Luigi Cecere, Eugenio Frucci, Mario Caggiano and Roberto Lo Giudice
Dent. J. 2024, 12(10), 303; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj12100303 - 25 Sep 2024
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3522
Abstract
Background: The new frontiers of computer-based surgery, technology, and material advances, have allowed for customized 3D printed manufacturing to become widespread in guided bone regeneration (GBR) in oral implantology. The shape, structural, mechanical, and biological manufacturing characteristics achieved through 3D printing technologies allow [...] Read more.
Background: The new frontiers of computer-based surgery, technology, and material advances, have allowed for customized 3D printed manufacturing to become widespread in guided bone regeneration (GBR) in oral implantology. The shape, structural, mechanical, and biological manufacturing characteristics achieved through 3D printing technologies allow for the customization of implant-prosthetic rehabilitations and GBR procedures according to patient-specific needs, reducing complications and surgery time. Therefore, the present narrative review aims to elucidate the 3D-printing digital radiographic process, materials, indications, 3D printed manufacturing-controlled characteristics, histological findings, complications, patient-reported outcomes, and short- and long-term clinical considerations of customized 3D printed mesh, membranes, bone substitutes, and dental implants applied to GBR in oral implantology. Methods: An electronic search was performed through MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, BioMed Central, and Web of Science until 30 June 2024. Results: Three-dimensionally printed titanium meshes and bone substitutes registered successful outcomes in vertical/horizontal bone defect regeneration. Three-dimensionally printed polymeric membranes could link the advantages of conventional resorbable and non-resorbable membranes. Few data on customized 3D printed dental implants and abutments are available, but in vitro and animal studies have shown new promising designs that could improve their mechanical properties and tribocorrosion-associated complications. Conclusions: While 3D printing technology has demonstrated potential in GBR, additional human studies are needed to evaluate the short- and long-term follow-up of peri-implant bone levels and volumes following prosthetic functional loading. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Periodontal and Peri-Implant Tissues Health Management)
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16 pages, 671 KiB  
Systematic Review
Virtual Reality as a Therapeutic Tool in Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation: A Comprehensive Evaluation and Systematic Review
by Matteo Scalise, Tevfik Serhan Bora, Chiara Zancanella, Adrian Safa, Roberto Stefini and Delia Cannizzaro
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(18), 5429; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13185429 - 13 Sep 2024
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 4051
Abstract
Introduction: The spinal rehabilitation process plays a crucial role in SCI patients’ lives, and recent developments in VR have the potential to efficiently engage SCI patients in therapeutic activities and promote neuroplasticity. Objective: The primary objective of this study is to [...] Read more.
Introduction: The spinal rehabilitation process plays a crucial role in SCI patients’ lives, and recent developments in VR have the potential to efficiently engage SCI patients in therapeutic activities and promote neuroplasticity. Objective: The primary objective of this study is to assess a complete review of the extended impacts of VR-assisted training on spine rehabilitation in SCI patients. Methods: This systematic review was conducted according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) through a single database search in PubMed/Medline between the dates 1 January 2010 and 1 February 2024. MESH terms and keywords were combined in the following search strategy: (Augmented Reality OR VR OR Virtual Reality) AND (Spine OR Spinal) AND Rehabilitation. Included articles were written in English, involved adults with SCI, included an intervention with VR, AR, or any mixed reality system, and assessed changes in outcomes after the intervention. Results: The search produced 257 articles, and 46 of them were allocated for data extraction to evaluate 652 patients. Both when VR training was analyzed and reviewed separately, and when compared to traditional training, the findings exhibited predominantly promising outcomes, reflecting a favorable trend in the study. VR technologies were used in different settings and customizations, and the medium total time of VR training among the studies was 60.46 h per patient. Conclusions: This auspicious outcome of the study further motivates the intervention of VR and AR in the rehabilitation of SCI patients along with ameliorating their overall holistic well-being. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Spine Surgery and Rehabilitation: Current Advances and Future Options)
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11 pages, 234 KiB  
Review
Functional and Rehabilitative Outcomes of Patients Affected by Bone Cancer of the Upper Limb Treated with MUTARS Prosthesis: A Narrative Review
by Sefora Codazza, Paola Emilia Ferrara, Adelaide Aprovitola, Mariantonietta Ariani, Fabiana La Cagnina, Daniele Coraci, Giorgio Ferriero and Gianpaolo Ronconi
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(6), 1651; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13061651 - 13 Mar 2024
Viewed by 1758
Abstract
Megaprostheses are well-known, reliable, and effective reconstruction prostheses used in oncologic surgery for limb salvage in patients affected by primary or metastatic bone tumors. Rehabilitation plays a major role after MUTARS replacement, with the aim of improving function after surgery and maintaining the [...] Read more.
Megaprostheses are well-known, reliable, and effective reconstruction prostheses used in oncologic surgery for limb salvage in patients affected by primary or metastatic bone tumors. Rehabilitation plays a major role after MUTARS replacement, with the aim of improving function after surgery and maintaining the highest possible quality of life. Only a few studies have been published about the use of megaprostheses for the upper limb. The aim of this narrative review is to describe the results of functional and rehabilitative outcomes of patients affected by bone primary or metastatic bone cancer of the upper limb and surgically treated with MUTARS prostheses. A comprehensive search was conducted on PubMed and Scopus using the following MESH terms: “Mutars”, “Megaprosthesis”, “bone”, “tumors”, “metastasis”, “upper limb”, “rehabilitation”, “outcome”, “quality of life”, and 10 studies were included. The most frequent oncological pathology was found to be metastases of the proximal humerus treated with modular endoprosthesis or modular reverse implants. Outcome measures used were ROM, MSTS, ASES, DASH, Constant-Murley score, Enneking score, VAS, MEP, TESS, and WOSI. Reconstruction of the proximal humerus with the MUTARS system seemed to be a valid treatment option after bone tumor resection. Rehabilitation after MUTARS surgery is very relevant, but currently, functional and rehabilitative outcomes are inadequately represented in the literature. Hence, further studies are needed to define standardized rehabilitation protocols after oncological orthopedic surgery that can be applied routinely in clinical practice. Full article
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