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Life
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Early Career Stars in Physiology and Pathology
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Early Career Stars in Physiology and Pathology

A special issue of Life (ISSN 2075-1729). This special issue belongs to the section "Physiology and Pathology".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (29 July 2022) | Viewed by 34383

Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Nicola Smania

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
1. Neuromotor and Cognitive Rehabilitation Research Center (CRRNC), Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, 37129 Verona, Italy
2. Neurorehabilitation Unit, AOUI Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
Interests: neurorehabilitation; rehabilitation; posture; physical rehabilitation; musculoskeletal disorders; movement analysis biomechanics; exercise science; sports injuries; muscle function
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Nicola Valè

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Neuromotor and Cognitive Rehabilitation Research Centre (CRRNC), Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Verona University, Neurorehabilitation Unit, Borgo Roma University Hospital, P.le. L.A. Scuro, 10, 37134 Verona, Italy
Interests: motor control; movement analysis biomechanics; rehabilitation; neurorehabilitation; posture; surface electromyography
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

“Early Career Stars (ECS) in Physiology and Pathology” is a Special Issue that aims to collect scientific contributions from early career researchers exploring timely aspects of human physiology and pathology.

In order to support young physiologists and pathologists and give them an international open access platform on which to display their achievements, we built this Special Issue and would like to encourage them to contribute their high-quality, innovative, and breakthrough work.

This Special Issue accepts manuscripts in the form of original research articles or reviews where the first author or corresponding author is an ECS (students and scholars who are at the undergraduate, graduate, or post-graduate level—up to 10 years post-doctoral degree.).

Prof. Dr. Nicola Smania
Dr. Nicola Valè
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Life is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  •  applied physiology
  •  biomechanics
  •  cardiovascular pathobiology
  •  cell physiology
  •  comparative pathology
  •  comparative physiology
  •  computational physiology and medicine
  •  defense physiology
  •  environmental pathology
  •  exercise physiology
  •  human behavior
  •  integrative physiology
  •  molecular physiology
  •  motor control
  •  neurophysiology
  •  organismal physiology
  •  pediatric pathology
  •  pathobiology
  •  pathophysiology
  •  physiome
  •  systems physiology
  •  vascular pathophysiology

Published Papers (16 papers)

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Research

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14 pages, 4677 KiB  
Article
In Vivo Evaluation of the Anti-Schistosomal Potential of Ginger-Loaded Chitosan Nanoparticles on Schistosoma mansoni: Histopathological, Ultrastructural, and Immunological Changes
by Mona M. El-Derbawy, Hala S. Salem, Mona Raboo, Ibrahim R. Baiuomy, Sana A. Fadil, Haifa A. Fadil, Sabrin R. M. Ibrahim and Walaa A. El Kholy
Life 2022, 12(11), 1834; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12111834 - 09 Nov 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1487
Abstract
Chemotherapy is the most widely advocated method of Schistosome control. However, repeated chemotherapy leads to the emergence of drug-resistant Schistosoma strains. Therefore, efforts to find alternative drugs, especially those of natural origin, have risen globally. Nanoparticles (NPs) have received special interest as efficient [...] Read more.
Chemotherapy is the most widely advocated method of Schistosome control. However, repeated chemotherapy leads to the emergence of drug-resistant Schistosoma strains. Therefore, efforts to find alternative drugs, especially those of natural origin, have risen globally. Nanoparticles (NPs) have received special interest as efficient drug delivery systems. This work aimed to investigate the anti-schistosomal potential of Zingiber officinale (ginger, Zingiberaceae)-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (GCsNPs) on Schistosoma mansoni experimentally infected mice that were exposed to 80 ± 10 cercariae/mouse. The study groups are: (G1) negative control; (G2) positive control; (G3) praziquantel in a dose of 500 mg/kg/day for two consecutive days; (G4) ginger in a dose of 500 mg/kg treated; (G5) chitosan nanoparticles in a dose 3 mg/kg (G6) GCsNPs in a dose 250 mg/kg; and (G7) GCsNPs in a dose 500 mg/kg. The anti-schistosome potential was assessed using histopathological scanning electron microscopically and immunological parameters. The results showed that there was a significant decrease in cellular granuloma count (p < 0.05) and granuloma diameter (p < 0.001) in all infected treated mice groups, in comparison to the infected non-treated group with the highest reduction in both G3 and G7. SEM of S. mansoni adult worm recovered from G3 showed mild edema of oral and ventral suckers with some peeling and blebs around them, while that recovered from G7 showed abnormal oedematous oral and retracted ventral sucker, edema of the tegument, rupture of many tubercles with vacuolation and complete loss of spines. All infected treated mice groups, in comparison to positive control G2, showed a significant reduction in IL-4, IL-10, and TNF-α levels (p-value < 0.001), especially groups G6 and G7 (p-value < 0.05); both G6 and G7 values were nearer to the normal that indicated recovery of the liver tissue. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Early Career Stars in Physiology and Pathology)
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17 pages, 3388 KiB  
Article
Structural Design and Synthesis of Novel Cyclic Peptide Inhibitors Targeting Mycobacterium tuberculosis Transcription
by Filia Stephanie, Mutiara Saragih, Usman Sumo Friend Tambunan and Teruna J. Siahaan
Life 2022, 12(9), 1333; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12091333 - 28 Aug 2022
Viewed by 2126
Abstract
Tuberculosis (TB) remains one of the deadliest infectious diseases in the world. Although several established antitubercular drugs have been found, various factors obstruct efforts to combat this disease due to the existence of drug-resistance (DR) TB strains, the need for lengthy treatment, and [...] Read more.
Tuberculosis (TB) remains one of the deadliest infectious diseases in the world. Although several established antitubercular drugs have been found, various factors obstruct efforts to combat this disease due to the existence of drug-resistance (DR) TB strains, the need for lengthy treatment, and the occurrence of side effects from drug–drug interactions. Rifampicin (RIF) is the first line of antitubercular drugs and targets RNA polymerase (RNAP) of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB). Here, RIF blocks the synthesis of long RNA during transcription initiation. The efficacy of RIF is low in DR-TB strains, and the use of RIF leads to various side effects. In this study, novel cyclic peptides were computationally designed as inhibitors of MTB transcription initiation. The designed cyclic peptides were subjected to a virtual screening to generate compounds that can bind to the RIF binding site in MTB RNAP subunit β (RpoB) for obtaining a new potential TB drug with a safe clinical profile. The molecular simulations showed that the cyclic peptides were capable of binding with RpoB mutants, suggesting that they can be possibility utilized for treating DR-TB. Structural modifications were carried out by acetylation and amidation of the N- and C-terminus, respectively, to improve their plasma stability and bioavailability. The modified linear and cyclic peptides were successfully synthesized with a solid-phase peptide synthesis method using Fmoc chemistry, and they were characterized by analytical HPLC, LC-ESI-MS+, and 1H NMR. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Early Career Stars in Physiology and Pathology)
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19 pages, 2735 KiB  
Article
Controllable and Uncontrollable Stress Differentially Impact Fear Conditioned Alterations in Sleep and Neuroimmune Signaling in Mice
by Austin M. Adkins, Laurie L. Wellman and Larry D. Sanford
Life 2022, 12(9), 1320; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12091320 - 26 Aug 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1712
Abstract
Stress induces neuroinflammation and disrupts sleep, which together can promote a number of stress-related disorders. Fear memories associated with stress can resurface and reproduce symptoms. Our previous studies have demonstrated sleep outcomes can be modified by stressor controllability following stress and fear memory [...] Read more.
Stress induces neuroinflammation and disrupts sleep, which together can promote a number of stress-related disorders. Fear memories associated with stress can resurface and reproduce symptoms. Our previous studies have demonstrated sleep outcomes can be modified by stressor controllability following stress and fear memory recall. However, it is unknown how stressor controllability alters neuroinflammatory signaling and its association with sleep following fear memory recall. Mice were implanted with telemetry transmitters and experienced escapable or inescapable footshock and then were re-exposed to the shuttlebox context one week later. Gene expression was assessed with Nanostring® panels using RNA extracted from the basolateral amygdala and hippocampus. Freezing and temperature were examined as behavioral measures of fear. Increased sleep after escapable stress was associated with a down-regulation in neuro-inflammatory and neuro-degenerative related genes, while decreased sleep after inescapable stress was associated with an up-regulation in these genes. Behavioral measures of fear were virtually identical. Sleep and neuroimmune responses appear to be integrated during fear conditioning and reproduced by fear memory recall. The established roles of disrupted sleep and neuroinflammation in stress-related disorders indicate that these differences may serve as informative indices of how fear memory can lead to psychopathology. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Early Career Stars in Physiology and Pathology)
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10 pages, 2913 KiB  
Article
Rescue IVM of Denuded GV- and MI-Stage Oocytes of Premenopausal Rats with Oncostatin M, Insulin-like Growth Factor I, and Growth Hormone
by Yesim Akdemir, Yaprak Donmez Cakil, Belgin Selam, Mustafa Erinc Sitar and Mehmet Cincik
Life 2022, 12(8), 1247; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12081247 - 16 Aug 2022
Viewed by 1752
Abstract
Immature oocytes are retrieved and matured through in vitro maturation (IVM). Maturation, fertilization rates, and embryo development via IVM are all lower than those found in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles. We investigated the effects of oncostatin M (OSM), insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-I), and [...] Read more.
Immature oocytes are retrieved and matured through in vitro maturation (IVM). Maturation, fertilization rates, and embryo development via IVM are all lower than those found in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles. We investigated the effects of oncostatin M (OSM), insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-I), and growth hormone (GH) in rescue IVM. A total of 111 germinal vesicle (GV) and 17 metaphase I (MI) oocytes were obtained after conventional IVF from 28 female Wistar albino rats. Denuded immature oocytes were cultured in maturation medium supplemented with OSM, IGF-1, or GH. The quantities of metaphase II (MII) oocytes matured from the GV stage were 17 of 30 (56.6%), 15 of 28 (53.5%), 10 of 30 (33.3%), and 7 of 23 (30.3%), in control, OSM, IGF-I, and GH groups, respectively. Maturation rates in control and OSM groups were higher than those in IGF-I and GH groups (p = 0.001). The quantities of MII oocytes matured from MI stage were 7 of 7 (100%), 4 of 4 (100%), 1 of 1 (100%), and 1 of 5 (20%) in control, OSM, IGF-I, and GH groups, respectively. Maturation rates from MI to MII stages in control, OSM, and IGF-I groups were higher than those in the GH group (p = 0.004). Acceptable maturation rates are observed with OSM in rat oocytes in rescue IVM. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Early Career Stars in Physiology and Pathology)
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15 pages, 783 KiB  
Article
The Effects of Soft Contact Lens Wear on The Tear Film and Meibomian Gland Drop-Out and Visibility
by José Vicente García-Marqués, Cristian Talens-Estarelles, Santiago García-Lázaro and Alejandro Cerviño
Life 2022, 12(8), 1177; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12081177 - 02 Aug 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1545
Abstract
As contact lens (CL) wear affects the ocular surface, this cross-sectional study aims to assess the effects of soft CL wear and its duration on the tear film and meibomian gland (MG) drop-out and visibility. Thirty non-CL wearers (22.5 ± 2.3 years) and [...] Read more.
As contact lens (CL) wear affects the ocular surface, this cross-sectional study aims to assess the effects of soft CL wear and its duration on the tear film and meibomian gland (MG) drop-out and visibility. Thirty non-CL wearers (22.5 ± 2.3 years) and twenty-four soft CL wearers (23.8 ± 2.2 years) participated in this study. The Keratograph 5M was used to assess the ocular surface. CL users were surveyed on years of CL wear and hours per week. MG visibility was assessed using a previously developed method based on analysing pixel intensity of meibographies. The CL group showed higher gland drop-out (p < 0.001) and lower gland visibility (p < 0.022). Gland drop-out was independently associated with CL wear (p = 0.006). When gland drop-out was excluded, the relative energy of pixel intensity values showed an independent association with CL wear (p = 0.005). Prolonged hours of CL wear were associated with higher dry eye symptoms and entropy of MGs (p < 0.029). A reduction in non-invasive keratograph break-up time was associated with using CLs for ≥8 years (p = 0.030). Overall, gland drop-out was higher and gland visibility lower in soft CL wearers. New gland visibility metrics might help to assess MGs in soft CL wearers quickly and objectively. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Early Career Stars in Physiology and Pathology)
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12 pages, 2044 KiB  
Article
Neuronal Activity during Exposure to Specific Phobia through fMRI: Comparing Therapeutic Components of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
by Ascensión Fumero, Rosario J. Marrero, Teresa Olivares, Francisco Rivero, Yolanda Alvarez-Pérez, Carmen Pitti and Wenceslao Peñate
Life 2022, 12(8), 1132; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12081132 - 27 Jul 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1646
Abstract
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) packages for anxiety disorders, such as phobias, usually include gradual exposure to anxious contexts, positive self-verbalizations, and relaxation breathing. The objective of this research was to analyze the specific neural activation produced by the self-verbalizations (S) and breathing (B) [...] Read more.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) packages for anxiety disorders, such as phobias, usually include gradual exposure to anxious contexts, positive self-verbalizations, and relaxation breathing. The objective of this research was to analyze the specific neural activation produced by the self-verbalizations (S) and breathing (B) included in CBT. Thirty participants with clinical levels of a specific phobia to small animals were randomly assigned to three fMRI conditions in which individuals were exposed to phobic stimuli in real images: a group underwent S as a technique to reduce anxiety; a second group underwent B; and a control group underwent exposure only (E). Simple effects showed higher brain activation comparing E > S, E > B, and S > B. In particular, in the E group, compared to the experimental conditions, an activation was observed in sensory-perceptive and prefrontal and in other regions involved in the triggering of emotion (i.e., amygdala, supplementary motor area, and cingulate gyrus) as well as an activation associated with interoceptive sensitivity (i.e., insula and cingulate cortex). According to the specific tool used, discrepancies in the neural changes of CBT efficacy were observed. We discuss the theoretical implications according to the dual model of CBT as a set of therapeutic tools that activate different processes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Early Career Stars in Physiology and Pathology)
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16 pages, 37065 KiB  
Article
Primary Intraosseous Osteolytic Meningioma with Aggressive Clinical Behaviour: Clinico-Pathologic Correlation and Proposed New Clinical Classification
by Nazmin Ahmed, Gianluca Ferini, Moududul Haque, Giuseppe Emmanuele Umana, Gianluca Scalia, Bipin Chaurasia, Atul Vats and Asifur Rahman
Life 2022, 12(4), 548; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12040548 - 06 Apr 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2399
Abstract
(1) Introduction: Primary intraosseous osteolytic meningiomas (PIOM) are non-dural-based tumors predominantly presenting an osteolytic component with or without hyperostotic reactions. They are a subset of primary extradural meningiomas (PEM). In this study, we present a peculiar case with a systematic literature review and [...] Read more.
(1) Introduction: Primary intraosseous osteolytic meningiomas (PIOM) are non-dural-based tumors predominantly presenting an osteolytic component with or without hyperostotic reactions. They are a subset of primary extradural meningiomas (PEM). In this study, we present a peculiar case with a systematic literature review and propose a new classification considering the limitations of previous classification systems. (2) Materials and Methods: Using a systematic search protocol in Google Scholar, PubMed, and Scopus databases, we extracted all case studies on PIOM published from inception to December 2020. A 46-year-old female patient form Dhaka, Bangladesh, was also described. The search protocol was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. (3) Results: Here, we present a 46-year-old female patient with PIOM who successfully underwent bifrontal craniotomy and gross total removal (GTR) of the tumor. At 6-month follow-up, no tumor recurrence was shown. Including our new case, 55 total cases from 47 articles were included in the analysis. PIOMs were in closer frequency among males (56.4%) and females (43.6%). The most common tumor location was the frontal and parietal calvarium, most commonly in the frontal bone (29.1%). Surgical resection was the predominant modality of treatment (87.3%); only 1.8% of patients were treated with radiotherapy, and 5.4% received a combination of surgery and radiotherapy. Gross total resection (GTR) was achieved in 80% of cases. Extracranial extension was reported in 41.8% of cases, dural invasion in 47.3%, and recurrence in 7.3%. Whole-body 68 Ga-DOTATOC PET/CT has also been reported as a useful tool both for differential diagnosis, radiotherapy contouring, and follow-up. Current treatments such as hydroxyurea and bevacizumab have variable success rates. We have also suggested a new classification which would provide a simple common ground for further research in this field. (4) Conclusions: Surgical resection, especially GTR, is the treatment of choice for PIOM, with a high GTR rate and low risk of complications and mortality. More research is needed on the differential diagnosis and specific treatment of PIOM. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Early Career Stars in Physiology and Pathology)
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9 pages, 1615 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of Surgical Cleavage Plane by Preoperative Magnetic Resonance Imaging Findings in Adult Intracranial Meningiomas
by Nazmin Ahmed, Gianluca Ferini, Mosharef A. T. M. Hossain, Kanak Kanti Barua, Mohammad Nazrul Hossain, Giuseppe Emmanuele Umana, Nathan A. Shlobin, Gianluca Scalia, Paolo Palmisciano, Ottavio S. Tomasi and Bipin Chaurasia
Life 2022, 12(4), 473; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12040473 - 24 Mar 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1754
Abstract
(1) Background: Meningiomas are usually benign encapsulated intracranial tumors with well-defined borders that offer a high chance of cure with complete removal. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between preoperative MRI features and surgical plane of cleavage. (2) Materials [...] Read more.
(1) Background: Meningiomas are usually benign encapsulated intracranial tumors with well-defined borders that offer a high chance of cure with complete removal. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between preoperative MRI features and surgical plane of cleavage. (2) Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional observational study conducted in the Department of Neurosurgery, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University. Data were recorded from 48 study participants with confirmed intracranial meningioma and analyzed by IBM SPSS (version 23). (3) Results: The highest incidence of intracranial meningioma was observed in the third decade of life of our study participants. The female to male ratio was 1.82:1. The most common location of meningiomas was convexity (29.16%), sphenoid wing (22.91%), parasagittal (20.83%), and falcine (14.58%). Most of the patients (68.8%) had medium-sized tumors, and 75.0% exhibited hyperintense signal change in the tumor parenchyma on T2-weighted imaging. One-third (33.3%) of patients were characterized as no edema, focal edema, and lobar/hemispheric edema. There was no statistically significant association between tumor size and types of surgical cleavage plane. Different signal intensities of tumor parenchyma, as well as types of peritumoral edema, showed no statistically significant association with surgical cleavage plane (p > 0.05). (4) Conclusion: There was no association among the size of the tumor, extent of peritumoral edema, the intensity of the tumor on T2-weighted images, and the types of surgical cleavage plane. Future studies with larger sample sizes are required to find out more precise findings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Early Career Stars in Physiology and Pathology)
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Review

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16 pages, 847 KiB  
Review
SARS-CoV-2 and Influenza Vaccines in People with Excessive Body Mass—A Narrative Review
by Julia Drożdżyńska, Wiktoria Jakubowska, Marika Kemuś, Martyna Krokowska, Konrad Karpezo, Marcelina Wiśniewska, Paweł Bogdański and Damian Skrypnik
Life 2022, 12(10), 1617; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12101617 - 17 Oct 2022
Viewed by 2552
Abstract
In the face of a growing number of overweight people and two widely known viral diseases, SARS-CoV-2 and influenza, it is crucial to be aware of the impact of excess body weight on immunisation against these diseases. The aim of this review is [...] Read more.
In the face of a growing number of overweight people and two widely known viral diseases, SARS-CoV-2 and influenza, it is crucial to be aware of the impact of excess body weight on immunisation against these diseases. The aim of this review is to show the effectiveness of SARS-CoV-2 and influenza vaccines in overweight and obese patients. Excessive adipose tissue releases cytokines and maintains local hypoxia, which causes persistent low-grade inflammation. These factors make excess body mass patients’ immune systems weaker. Under such conditions, the humoral response becomes less efficient, leading to a weakened ability to fight against infection and an increased risk of developing lower antibody titres. Vaccines help to reduce morbidity both in normal-weight and excess body mass people, although most studies show that patients with higher BMI tend to lose the antibodies produced more quickly. It is shown that the most effective vaccines (in terms of preventing the infection and potential post-illness complications) are the BNT162b2 vaccine against SARS-CoV-2 and the inactivated influenza vaccine against influenza among both obese and non-obese subjects. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Early Career Stars in Physiology and Pathology)
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14 pages, 541 KiB  
Review
Desynchronosis: Types, Main Mechanisms, Role in the Pathogenesis of Epilepsy and Other Diseases: A Literature Review
by Elena D. Bazhanova
Life 2022, 12(8), 1218; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12081218 - 11 Aug 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1998
Abstract
Circadian information is stored in mammalian tissues by an autonomous network of transcriptional feedback loops that have evolved to optimally regulate tissue-specific functions. Currently, stable circadian rhythms of the expression of clock genes (Bmal1/Per2/Cry1, etc.), hormones, and metabolic genes (Glut4/leptin [...] Read more.
Circadian information is stored in mammalian tissues by an autonomous network of transcriptional feedback loops that have evolved to optimally regulate tissue-specific functions. Currently, stable circadian rhythms of the expression of clock genes (Bmal1/Per2/Cry1, etc.), hormones, and metabolic genes (Glut4/leptin, etc.) have been demonstrated. Desynchronoses are disorders of the body’s biorhythms, where the direction and degree of shift of various indicators of the oscillatory process are disturbed. Desynchronosis can be caused by natural conditions or man-made causes. The disruption of circadian rhythms is a risk factor for the appearance of physiological and behavioral disorders and the development of diseases, including epilepsy, and metabolic and oncological diseases. Evidence suggests that seizure activity in the epilepsy phenotype is associated with circadian dysfunction. Interactions between epilepsy and circadian rhythms may be mediated through melatonin, sleep–wake cycles, and clock genes. The correction of circadian dysfunction can lead to a decrease in seizure activity and vice versa. Currently, attempts are being made to pharmacologically correct desynchronosis and related psycho-emotional disorders, as well as combined somatic pathology. On the other hand, the normalization of the light regimen, the regulation of sleep–wake times, and phototherapy as additions to standard treatment can speed up the recovery of patients with various diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Early Career Stars in Physiology and Pathology)
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14 pages, 851 KiB  
Review
The Repertoire of Tissue Inhibitors of Metalloproteases: Evolution, Regulation of Extracellular Matrix Proteolysis, Engineering and Therapeutic Challenges
by Salvatore Costa, Maria Antonietta Ragusa, Gabriele Lo Buglio, Simone Dario Scilabra and Aldo Nicosia
Life 2022, 12(8), 1145; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12081145 - 28 Jul 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2481
Abstract
Tissue inhibitors of metalloproteases (TIMPs) belong to a fascinating protein family expressed in all Metazoa. They act as regulators of the turnover of the extracellular matrix, and they are consistently involved in essential processes. Herein, we recapitulate the main activities of mammalian TIMPs [...] Read more.
Tissue inhibitors of metalloproteases (TIMPs) belong to a fascinating protein family expressed in all Metazoa. They act as regulators of the turnover of the extracellular matrix, and they are consistently involved in essential processes. Herein, we recapitulate the main activities of mammalian TIMPs (TIMP1–4) in the control of extracellular-matrix degradation and pathologies associated with aberrant proteostasis. We delineate the activity of TIMPs in the control of extracellular matrix (ECM) homeostasis and discuss the diversity of TIMPs across metazoans taking into account the emergence of the components of the ECM during evolution. Thus, the TIMP repertoire herein analysed includes the homologues from cnidarians, which are coeval with the origins of ECM components; protostomes (molluscs, arthropods and nematodes); and deuterostomes (echinoderms and vertebrates). Several questions, including the maintenance of the structure despite low sequence similarity and the strategies for TIMP engineering, shed light on the possibility to use recombinant TIMPs integrating unique features and binding selectivity for therapeutic applications in the treatment of inflammatory pathologies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Early Career Stars in Physiology and Pathology)
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Other

Jump to: Research, Review

10 pages, 1927 KiB  
Systematic Review
Adult-Onset Pilocytic Astrocytoma Predilecting Temporal Lobe: A Brief Review
by Nazmin Ahmed, Gianluca Ferini, Kanak Kanti Barua, Rathin Halder, Sudip Barua, Stefano Priola, Ottavio Tomasi, Giuseppe Emmanuele Umana, Nathan A. Shlobin, Gianluca Scalia, Kanwaljeet Garg and Bipin Chaurasia
Life 2022, 12(7), 931; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12070931 - 21 Jun 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1761
Abstract
(1) Introduction: Adult-onset pilocytic astrocytoma (APA) accounts for only 1.5% of all brain tumors, and studies regarding APA are limited. This review is focused on the history, clinical course, cytogenetics, neuroimaging features, management, and outcome of APAs. (2) Methods: Using a systematic search [...] Read more.
(1) Introduction: Adult-onset pilocytic astrocytoma (APA) accounts for only 1.5% of all brain tumors, and studies regarding APA are limited. This review is focused on the history, clinical course, cytogenetics, neuroimaging features, management, and outcome of APAs. (2) Methods: Using a systematic search protocol in Google Scholar, PubMed, and Science Direct databases, the authors extracted cases of APA predilecting the temporal lobe from inception to December 2020. Articles lacking necessary data were excluded from this study. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS 23 statistical package software. (3) Results: A total of 32 patients, 14 (43.8%) males and 18 (56.2%) females, with a male/female ratio of 0.77/1, were grouped. The mean age of the patients was 34.22 ± 15.17 years, ranging from 19 to 75. The tumors were predominantly located in the left side. We have also discussed the clinical presentation, and headache was the most common complaint, followed by visual disturbance. Preoperative neuroimaging features demonstrated cystic lesions in 16 patients, with mural nodule in 5 patients; intracerebral hemorrhage was present in 1 patient, and solid enhancing mass was observed in 3 patients. Only our reported case presented as a solid calcified mass. Most of the patients (78.1%) underwent a gross total resection (GTR), only 5 (21.9%) underwent subtotal resection (STR). The outcome and prognosis history were excellent, and no recurrence was observed. (4) Conclusion: Most of the APAs of the temporal lobe follow benign clinical courses, but some patients exhibit aggressive clinical behavior. There was no history of recurrence after treatment at up to 27 years of follow-up. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Early Career Stars in Physiology and Pathology)
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12 pages, 874 KiB  
Systematic Review
A Spotlight on the Role of Radiomics and Machine-Learning Applications in the Management of Intracranial Meningiomas: A New Perspective in Neuro-Oncology: A Review
by Lara Brunasso, Gianluca Ferini, Lapo Bonosi, Roberta Costanzo, Sofia Musso, Umberto E. Benigno, Rosa M. Gerardi, Giuseppe R. Giammalva, Federica Paolini, Giuseppe E. Umana, Francesca Graziano, Gianluca Scalia, Carmelo L. Sturiale, Rina Di Bonaventura, Domenico G. Iacopino and Rosario Maugeri
Life 2022, 12(4), 586; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12040586 - 14 Apr 2022
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 2664
Abstract
Background: In recent decades, the application of machine learning technologies to medical imaging has opened up new perspectives in neuro-oncology, in the so-called radiomics field. Radiomics offer new insight into glioma, aiding in clinical decision-making and patients’ prognosis evaluation. Although meningiomas represent [...] Read more.
Background: In recent decades, the application of machine learning technologies to medical imaging has opened up new perspectives in neuro-oncology, in the so-called radiomics field. Radiomics offer new insight into glioma, aiding in clinical decision-making and patients’ prognosis evaluation. Although meningiomas represent the most common primary CNS tumor and the majority of them are benign and slow-growing tumors, a minor part of them show a more aggressive behavior with an increased proliferation rate and a tendency to recur. Therefore, their treatment may represent a challenge. Methods: According to PRISMA guidelines, a systematic literature review was performed. We included selected articles (meta-analysis, review, retrospective study, and case–control study) concerning the application of radiomics method in the preoperative diagnostic and prognostic algorithm, and planning for intracranial meningiomas. We also analyzed the contribution of radiomics in differentiating meningiomas from other CNS tumors with similar radiological features. Results: In the first research stage, 273 papers were identified. After a careful screening according to inclusion/exclusion criteria, 39 articles were included in this systematic review. Conclusions: Several preoperative features have been identified to increase preoperative intracranial meningioma assessment for guiding decision-making processes. The development of valid and reliable non-invasive diagnostic and prognostic modalities could have a significant clinical impact on meningioma treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Early Career Stars in Physiology and Pathology)
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14 pages, 728 KiB  
Systematic Review
The Palliative Care in the Metastatic Spinal Tumors. A Systematic Review on the Radiotherapy and Surgical Perspective
by Giuseppe Roberto Giammalva, Gianluca Ferini, Fabio Torregrossa, Lara Brunasso, Sofia Musso, Umberto Emanuele Benigno, Rosa Maria Gerardi, Lapo Bonosi, Roberta Costanzo, Federica Paolini, Paolo Palmisciano, Giuseppe Emmanuele Umana, Rina Di Bonaventura, Carmelo Lucio Sturiale, Domenico Gerardo Iacopino and Rosario Maugeri
Life 2022, 12(4), 571; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12040571 - 12 Apr 2022
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2544
Abstract
Spine represents the most common site for metastatic disease involvement. Due to the close relationship between the spinal cord and critical structures, therapeutic management of spinal metastases remains challenging. Spinal localization can lead to neurological sequelae, which can significantly affect the quality of [...] Read more.
Spine represents the most common site for metastatic disease involvement. Due to the close relationship between the spinal cord and critical structures, therapeutic management of spinal metastases remains challenging. Spinal localization can lead to neurological sequelae, which can significantly affect the quality of life in patients with a limited life expectancy. The authors conducted a systematic literature review according to PRISMA guidelines in order to determine the impact of the most updated palliative care on spinal metastases. The initial literature search retrieved 2526 articles, manually screened based on detailed exclusion criteria. Finally, 65 studies met the inclusion criteria and were finally included in the systematic review. In the wide scenario of palliative care, nowadays, recent medical or surgical treatments represent valuable options for ameliorating pain and improving patients QoL in such this condition. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Early Career Stars in Physiology and Pathology)
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13 pages, 1903 KiB  
Systematic Review
Spinal Cord Stimulation to Treat Unresponsive Cancer Pain: A Possible Solution in Palliative Oncological Therapy
by Federica Paolini, Gianluca Ferini, Lapo Bonosi, Roberta Costanzo, Lara Brunasso, Umberto Emanuele Benigno, Massimiliano Porzio, Rosa Maria Gerardi, Giuseppe Roberto Giammalva, Giuseppe Emmanuele Umana, Francesca Graziano, Gianluca Scalia, Carmelo Lucio Sturiale, Rina Di Bonaventura, Domenico Gerardo Iacopino and Rosario Maugeri
Life 2022, 12(4), 554; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12040554 - 07 Apr 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2538
Abstract
(1) Background: Treatment of cancer-related pain is still challenging, and it can be managed by both medical and interventional therapies. Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) is a minimally invasive technique, and its use is rapidly increasing in the treatment of chronic pain. (2) Materials [...] Read more.
(1) Background: Treatment of cancer-related pain is still challenging, and it can be managed by both medical and interventional therapies. Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) is a minimally invasive technique, and its use is rapidly increasing in the treatment of chronic pain. (2) Materials and Methods: Our study aims to perform a review of the pertinent literature about current evidences in cancer pain treatment by Spinal Cord Stimulation. Moreover, we created a database based on case reports or case series (18 studies) in the literature. We analyzed a clinical group of oncological patients affected by intractable pain undergoing SCS implantation, focusing on outcome. (3) Results: The analysis of the 18 included studies in our series has shown a reduction in painful symptoms in 48 out of 56 treated patients (87.51%); also 53 out of 56 patients (96.64%) have shown an improvement in their Quality of Life (QoL). (4) Conclusions: Spinal Cord Stimulation can be considered an efficient method in the treatment of cancer-related pain. However, literature regarding SCS for the treatment of cancer-related pain is largely represented by case reports and small case series, with no effective population studies or Randomized Controlled Trials demonstrating the efficacy and the level of evidence. Further prospective studies are needed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Early Career Stars in Physiology and Pathology)
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14 pages, 1504 KiB  
Systematic Review
The Role of 3D-Printed Custom-Made Vertebral Body Implants in the Treatment of Spinal Tumors: A Systematic Review
by Roberta Costanzo, Gianluca Ferini, Lara Brunasso, Lapo Bonosi, Massimiliano Porzio, Umberto Emanuele Benigno, Sofia Musso, Rosa Maria Gerardi, Giuseppe Roberto Giammalva, Federica Paolini, Paolo Palmisciano, Giuseppe Emmanuele Umana, Carmelo Lucio Sturiale, Rina Di Bonaventura, Domenico Gerardo Iacopino and Rosario Maugeri
Life 2022, 12(4), 489; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12040489 - 28 Mar 2022
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 2436
Abstract
In spinal surgery, 3D prothesis represents a useful instrument for spinal reconstruction after the removal of spinal tumors that require an “en bloc” resection. This represents a complex and demanding procedure, aiming to restore spinal length, alignment and weight-bearing capacity and to provide [...] Read more.
In spinal surgery, 3D prothesis represents a useful instrument for spinal reconstruction after the removal of spinal tumors that require an “en bloc” resection. This represents a complex and demanding procedure, aiming to restore spinal length, alignment and weight-bearing capacity and to provide immediate stability. Thus, in this systematic review the authors searched the literature to investigate and discuss the advantages and limitations of using 3D-printed custom-made vertebral bodies in the treatment of spinal tumors. A systematic literature review was conducted following the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) statement, with no limits in terms of date of publication. The collected studies were exported to Mendeley. The articles were selected according to the following inclusion criteria: availability of full articles, full articles in English, studies regarding the implant of 3D custom-made prothesis after total or partial vertebral resection, studies regarding patients with a histologically confirmed diagnosis of primary spinal tumor or solitary bone metastasis; studies evaluating the implant of 3d custom-made prothesis in the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine. Nineteen published studies were included in this literature review, and include a total of 87 patients, 49 males (56.3%) and 38 females (43.7%). The main tumoral location and primary tumor diagnosis were evaluated. The 3D custom-made prothesis represents a feasible tool after tumor en-bloc resection in spinal reconstruction. This procedure is still evolving, and long-term follow-ups are mandatory to assess its safeness and usefulness. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Early Career Stars in Physiology and Pathology)
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