Medicina

Background and Objectives: Elderly trauma patients face unique physiological challenges that often lead to undertriage under the current guidelines. The present study aimed to develop machine-learning (ML)-based, age-specific triage guidelines to improve predictions for intensive care unit (ICU) admissions and in-hospital mortality. Materials and Methods: A total of 274,347 trauma cases transported via Emergency Medical System (EMS)-119 in Seoul (2020–2022) were analyzed. Physiological indicators (e.g., systolic blood pressure; saturation of partial pressure oxygen; and alert, verbal, pain, unresponsiveness scale) were incorporated. Bayesian optimization was used to fine-tuned models for sensitivity and specificity, emphasizing the F2 score to minimize undertriage. Results: Compared with the current guidelines, the alternative guidelines achieved superior sensitivity for ICU admissions (0.728 vs. 0.541) and in-hospital mortality (0.815 vs. 0.599). Subgroup analyses across injury severities, including traumatic brain and chest injuries, confirmed the enhanced performance of the alternative guidelines. Conclusions: ML-based, age-specific triage guidelines improve the sensitivity of triage decisions, reduce undertriage, and optimize elderly trauma care. Implementing these guidelines can significantly enhance patient outcomes and resource allocation in emergency settings. Full article

Background and Objectives: Dexmedetomidine is a potent selective α₂ receptor agonist with analgesic and sedative effects. Many reports indicate that compared to fentanyl, the combination of dexmedetomidine with propofol provides comparably acceptable conditions for a laryngeal mask airway (LMA). However, no study has evaluated the effectiveness of combined dexmedetomidine and thiopental in LMA insertions compared to that of combined dexmedetomidine and propofol. This prospective, randomized, double-blind study aimed to compare the effects of dexmedetomidine with thiopental or propofol on LMA insertion conditions, hemodynamic responses, and pharyngolaryngeal morbidity, which in this study was defined as the presence of postoperative sore throat, dysphagia, or visible blood in the airway following a laryngeal mask airway (LMA) insertion. Materials and Methods: A total of 80 premedicated ASA I-II patients aged 18–65 years were randomized to the propofol group (Group P, n = 40) or thiopental group (Group T, n = 40). Anesthesia was induced by infusing 1 μg·kg⁻¹ dexmedetomidine over 10 min followed by 2.5 mg·kg⁻¹ propofol or 5 mg·kg⁻¹ thiopental. LMA insertion conditions were evaluated on a scale assessing six variables. Systolic arterial pressure (SAP), diastolic arterial pressure (DAP), mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), and bispectral index values were recorded at baseline; 1 min before; and at 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 min after an LMA insertion. The baseline values for the systolic arterial pressure (SAP), diastolic arterial pressure (DAP), mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), and bispectral index (BIS) values were recorded before dexmedetomidine infusion. Measurements for all patients were then taken 1 min before and at 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 min after the LMA insertion Results: Demographic data were similar between the groups. In Group P, the time to loss of eyelash reflex and LMA insertion time were significantly shorter, the apnea duration was significantly longer, and the rates of full jaw opening and optimal LMA insertion conditions were significantly higher when compared with those of Group T (p < 0.05). Group P showed a significantly greater percentage decrease in HR compared to that of Group T at 1 min before and 1, 2, and 3 min after the LMA insertion (p < 0.05). Group T had a greater decrease in SAP and MAP at 1 min before insertion, while the SAP decrease was lower in Group T at 3, 4, and 5 min after insertion. The MAP and DAP values after the LMA insertion showed a greater decrease in Group P compared to in Group T (p < 0.05) The incidence of bradycardia was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in Group P than in Group T. There was no significant difference between the groups in terms of the frequency of hypotension, sore throat, presence of blood, or dysphagia at discharge from the recovery unit (p > 0.05). Conclusions: This study showed that the use of dexmedetomidine with thiopental provided comparably acceptable LMA insertion conditions with more stable hemodynamics compared to propofol. Full article

Background and Objectives: Low back pain (LBP) is a highly prevalent musculoskeletal condition that frequently recurs, leading to increased healthcare utilization and socioeconomic burden. While short-term management strategies are well-documented, long-term recurrence patterns remain insufficiently studied. This study aims to describe the long-term recurrence patterns and healthcare utilization associated with LBP in a nationwide cohort over a 17-year period. Materials and Methods: This descriptive, retrospective longitudinal cohort study utilized data from the Korean National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) database (2002–2018). We included 3,086,665 patients who sought medical care for LBP (ICD-10 code M54.5) at least once in 2010. Patients with a history of disability rating assessments were excluded. The primary outcomes included the number of LBP episodes, episode duration, recurrence patterns, and changes in healthcare utilization. We assessed the number of healthcare visits per episode and the interval between episodes over time. Results: Among the study population, 79.4% experienced recurrent LBP, with an average of 5.0 ± 4.9 episodes per patient. Recurrence rates increased with each episode. In addition, episode duration lengthened, and intervals between episodes shortened. Healthcare utilization also increased, with patients requiring more visits per episode over time. The demographic and socioeconomic characteristics of the LBP patients in our sample were also described. Conclusions: In this population-based sample, LBP follows a progressive course, with increasing episode frequency, prolonged duration, and escalating healthcare utilization over time. These findings highlight the need for early intensive management and long-term follow-up strategies to mitigate the growing burden of recurrent LBP on individuals and healthcare systems. Full article

Background and Objectives: Frailty can represent the transitional stage between successful aging and old age in need of care; it is a guide for setting goals for regaining robust old age in the individual at risk. Frailty is associated with longer intensive care unit duration, hospital stay, and higher mortality. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between mortality and frailty in geriatric patients (65 years and older) admitted to the intensive care unit with a diagnosis of pneumonia. Materials and Methods: In total, 478 patients were included in the study. The demographic data, such as age, gender, body mass index (BMI), Charlson comorbidity index (CCI), Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS), acute physiology and chronic health evaluation (APACHE II) scores, sequential organ failure assessment score (SOFA), invasive/noninvasive mechanical ventilator days, length of stay in the hospital and intensive care unit, inotropic requirement, and 28-day mortality, were retrospectively scanned and recorded. Results: Advanced age, lower BMI, higher Charlson Comorbidity index (CCI), SOFA score, and CFS increased 28-day mortality. CFS was found to be associated with 28-day mortality similar to the use of inotropic agents, prolonged MV duration, and ICU length of stay (LOS). Conclusions: CFS is effective in predicting 28-day mortality in geriatric patients diagnosed with pneumonia in intensive care. It also provides insights into morbidity parameters such as requirement for inotropic agents, duration of mechanical ventilation (MV), and LOS ICU. Full article

Background and Objectives: Sleep disorders are highly prevalent in society and require focused attention within healthcare systems. While patient history, reported complaints, and subjective sleep questionnaires can provide initial insights into potential sleep issues, polysomnography (PSG) remains the gold standard for diagnosing various sleep disorders. However, long waiting times for PSG appointments in many healthcare facilities pose challenges for timely diagnosis and treatment. This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic value of subjective measures, including patient-reported parameters, in comparison to the objective findings of PSG. Materials and Methods: In this study, we retrospectively analysed the data from 562 patients who underwent clinical evaluation and PSG testing at the Hospital of Lithuanian University of Health Sciences Kaunas Clinics between 2018 and 2024. We report the diagnostic accuracy of different sleep questionnaires to detect various sleep disorders in our population. Results: We report the corresponding sensitivity and specificity values: the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS)—73.2% and 44.1% for detecting severe obstructive sleep apnoea and 87.1% and 76.8% for detecting hypersomnia; the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI)—77.2% and 63.3% for detecting insomnia; the Berlin Questionnaire (BQ)—67.8% and 68.8% for detecting obstructive sleep apnoea; the Ullanlina Narcolepsy Scale (UNS)—84.4% and 58.9% for detecting hypersomnia; the Innsbruck REM Sleep Behaviour Disorder Inventory (RBD-I)—93.3% and 52.5% for detecting RBD; the REM Sleep Behaviour Disorder Single-Question Screen (RBD1Q)—73.3% and 81.0% for detecting RBD; and the Paris Arousal Disorder Severity Scale (PADSS)—57.5% and 90.5% for detecting parasomnia. Conclusions: When comparing our findings with the previous literature, we found that the screening tools generally demonstrated a slightly poorer performance in our population. However, our results suggest that certain individual questions from the comprehensive questionnaires may provide comparable diagnostic values, while reducing the patient burden. We propose a targeted screening approach that integrates fundamental clinical parameters, key screening questions, and selected validated questionnaires, enabling primary care and outpatient clinicians to more efficiently identify patients who may require referral for specialised sleep evaluation and treatment. Full article

Background and Objectives: The neutrophil-percentage-to-albumin ratio (NPAR) has been recognized as an independent risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. In our study, we investigated whether the NPAR is associated with the formation of coronary collateral circulation (CCC) in patients with chronic coronary syndrome (CCS). Materials and Methods: A total of 681 patients with CCS were included in this study. Of these patients, 571 had chronic total occlusion in at least one major vessel and developed collateral vessels. In total, 110 patients were in the control group, who had CCS but did not have complete occlusion in a major vessel and did not develop collateral vessels. Patients with collateral vessels on coronary angiography were divided into two groups according to the Rentrop score: poor CCC (Rentrop 0–1) and good CCC (Rentrop 2–3). Blood samples were taken for the NPAR and other biochemical parameters in all patients during hospitalization. The NPAR was calculated as the neutrophil-percentage-to-albumin ratio. Results: The group of patients with poor CCC had a higher white blood count (WBC), neutrophil, C-reactive protein (CRP), neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio (NLR), CRP/albumin ratio (CAR), and NPAR values than patients with good CCC (p < 0.001, for all). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that high NPAR levels were an independent predictor of poor CCC (OR: 2.79, 95% CI:1.7–4.6, p < 0.001), accompanied by neutrophil, CRP, CAR, and NLR levels. In the receiver operator characteristic curve (ROC analysis), the cut-off value for the NPAR to indicate poor CCC was 1.78 with a sensitivity of 76.6% and specificity of 81.4% (area under ROC curve = 0.804 95% CI (0.753–0.854), p < 0.001). Conclusions: We demonstrated that the NPAR may be an independent predictor of poor CCC development in clinical practice. Full article

Background and Objectives: Postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) is a common complication following cardiac surgery, associated with increased morbidity and prolonged hospital stays. Oxidative stress has been implicated in POAF pathogenesis, with malondialdehyde (MDA), a marker of lipid peroxidation, proposed as a potential biomarker. However, conflicting evidence exists regarding its predictive value. This study aimed to assess the association between serum MDA levels and POAF incidence in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Materials and Methods: This prospective observational study included 99 consecutive patients undergoing elective on-pump cardiac surgery. Patients with preoperative atrial fibrillation, chronic kidney disease requiring dialysis, or emergency surgery were excluded. Blood samples for MDA measurement were collected at six perioperative time points: preoperatively, intraoperatively after aortic clamp release, and at 8, 24, 48, and 72 h postoperatively. Patients were monitored for new-onset POAF during the first three postoperative days. Statistical analyses included independent samples t-tests, Mann–Whitney U-tests, and Fisher’s exact tests, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: POAF occurred in 33 (33%) patients. Patients who developed POAF were significantly older (p = 0.017) and had higher EuroSCORE II values (p = 0.019). No significant differences were observed in serum MDA concentrations between POAF and non-POAF patients at any measured time point. The incidence of POAF was higher in patients undergoing valvular surgery (p = 0.014). Conclusions: Serum MDA levels were not associated with POAF development, suggesting that lipid peroxidation alone may not play a central role in POAF pathogenesis. These findings challenge the predictive value of MDA for POAF risk stratification. Future research should explore alternative oxidative stress markers and their potential therapeutic implications in POAF prevention. Full article

Background and Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic potential of systemic inflammatory indices such as Systemic Inflammation Response Index (SIRI) and Systemic Inflammatory Response (SIR). These were assessed in combination with CA 125 to distinguish ovarian carcinoma (OC) from borderline ovarian tumors (BOT) in patients with suspicious adnexal masses. Materials and Methods: A retrospective multicenter observational study including patients undergoing surgery for suspected ovarian neoplasms was conducted. Inclusion criteria required preoperative blood sampling for inflammatory markers and CA 125. SIR-125 and SIRI-125 were developed by combining SIR and SIRI with CA 125 levels. Diagnostic performance was assessed using ROC curve analysis and linear regression models. Results: A total of 63 patients (42 BOT, 21 OC) were analyzed. OC patients exhibited significantly higher SIR-125 and SIRI-125 values (p < 0.001). ROC analysis demonstrated good diagnostic accuracy, with AUCs of 0.83 (SIR-125) and 0.82 (SIRI-125). SIR-125 showed higher specificity (0.83), while SIRI-125 had superior sensitivity (0.86). Conclusions: SIR-125 and SIRI-125 enhance diagnostic differentiation between OC and BOT, providing a simple, cost-effective preoperative tool. Future prospective studies are needed to validate these findings in broader patient populations. Full article

Background and Objectives: Conversion surgery for liver metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) has been associated with prolonged survival. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of integrating biological therapies with fluorouracil-based induction chemotherapy in patients with isolated liver mCRC who subsequently underwent curative resection of both the primary tumor and liver metastases. Materials and Methods: This multicenter, retrospective study, conducted by the Turkish Oncology Group (TOG), included 116 patients from 11 tertiary centers who underwent conversion surgery following induction chemotherapy between 2009 and 2024. Results: The median age was 57 years, with 62% male patients. The median follow-up period was 55.3 months. The median progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were 21.1 and 53.7 months, respectively. No significant differences in PFS or OS were observed based on biological therapy use or tumor localization. Among patients with RAS/RAF wild-type tumors, PFS and OS were comparable between those receiving Anti-EGFR and Anti-VEGF therapy. In RAS/RAF mutant tumors, the addition of Anti-VEGF therapy did not confer a survival benefit. Factors associated with shorter PFS included advanced tumor stage (ypT3-T4), lymph node metastasis, and multiple metastases, while shorter OS was linked to advanced tumor stage and lack of objective response. Conclusions: Surgical resection plays a pivotal role in improving survival outcomes in patients with potentially resectable liver mCRC. Optimizing induction chemotherapy regimens may enhance conversion rates and prolong long-term survival. Further studies are needed to refine treatment selection based on tumor localization, mutation status, and molecular biomarkers. Full article

Background and Objectives: The superior thyroid artery (STA) typically has its origin inferiorly to the greater hyoid horn (GHHB) either from the external carotid artery (ECA) or from the carotid bifurcation (CB) or the common carotid artery (CCA). We aimed to determine the topographic variants of the STA related to the GHHB and the artery of origin and to check their bilateral symmetry. Materials and Methods: Determinations were performed in a sample of 85 archived angio CT adult cases, comprising 53 men and 32 women. The origins of the STAs from the CCA/CB/ECA were classified as types A–C. We defined the vertical topographies of the STA as follows in relation to the GHHB: type 1 (infrahyoid), type 2 (hyoid), and type 3 (suprahyoid). Subtypes of the STA course were added: “a”, lateral to the GHHB; “b”, medial; and “c”, posterior to it. Unilateral combinations of types and bilateral associations of these were established. Results: In 170 carotid axes, we detected STA type A in 8.82%, type B in 28.82%, and type C in 60% of cases. It was absent in 2.35% of the cases. The infrahyoid type 1 of STA was found in 47.06% of cases. The hyoid type 2 was found in 20.59% (2a), 0.59% (2b), and 4.71% (2c). The suprahyoid type 3 was found in 21.18% (3a), 0% (3b), and 3.53% (3c). Thirteen unilateral combinations of types were found. The most prevalent ones were C1 (27.71%), C3a (17.47%), and B1 (15.66%). We established thirty-seven bilateral associations of unilateral combinations of types. The cases with asymmetrical bilateral associations of unilateral combinations of types prevailed. A lowered hyoid bone overlapping the thyroid cartilage was found in one of these cases. The prevailing associations were C1-C1 (bilateral infrahyoid origin of the STA from the ECA, 13/85, 15.29%), C3a-C3a (suprahyoid origins of the STAs from the ECAs and lateral courses over the GHHB, 9/85, 10.58%) and C1-B1 (infrahyoid origins from the ECA and CB, 8/85, 9.41%). Conclusions: The vertical topography of the STA is highly variable and hardly predictable but can be examined in imaging studies. The GHHB may be of use to identify and manage the artery. The STA is rarely absent. Full article

Background and Objectives: The increased prevalence of knee osteoarthritis (OA) and need for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) indicate a growing need for effective prehabilitation. The effect of preoperative home exercise programs (HEPs) on gait in patients with severe knee OA is under-investigated. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of an 8-week preoperative HEP on gait characteristics, leg extensor muscle strength, knee function, and health status in women with severe knee OA scheduled for TKA and to compare them with healthy control data. Material and Methods: Eighteen women with severe knee OA (KOA, aged 61.8 ± 1.6 years) and ten age-matched healthy women (CON) participated in this study. The KOA group performed an HEP with 15 exercises aimed at improving lower limb muscle strength, motion, balance, and coordination. Gait spatiotemporal and kinetic characteristics during the loading response, isometric leg extensor strength, knee active range of motion (AROM), and The Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) were investigated. Associations between characteristics were analyzed. Results: Improvements in ground reaction force (GRF) during the loading response of gait, leg extensor muscle strength, the knee AROM, and the WOMAC index were found post-HEP. The KOA group demonstrated lower (p < 0.05) spatiotemporal and GRF characteristics than the CON group. Knee extension moment (KEM) was lower pre-HEP (p < 0.05) but did not differ significantly from the CON group post-HEP. Gait characteristics and WOMAC were associated with leg extensor muscle strength and knee AROM and pain in the KOA group. Conclusions: An eight-week preoperative HEP improved GRF and KEM during the loading response of gait, muscle strength, knee function, and self-reported knee OA-related health status in women with severe knee OA. Preoperative HEP before TKA, focusing on leg extensor muscle strength, range of motion, and pain relief, is an effective alternative to supervised exercise therapy in women with severe knee OA. Full article

Although the acute phase of the COVID-19 pandemic has subsided, the emergence of the post-COVID-19 condition presents a new and complex public health challenge, characterized by persistent, multisystem symptoms that can endure for weeks or months after the initial infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus, significantly affecting survivors’ quality of life. Among the most concerning sequelae are cardiovascular complications, which encompass a broad spectrum of conditions, including arrhythmias, myocardial damage, or postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome. This narrative review explores the burden of the SARS-CoV-2 infection on cardiovascular health by reviewing the latest and most relevant findings in the literature and highlighting different aspects of COVID-19’s cardiovascular involvement. This review investigates the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying cardiovascular involvement in the post-COVID-19 condition, with a focus on direct viral invasion via ACE2 receptors, immune-mediated cardiovascular injury, cytokine storm, systemic inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and mitochondrial injury. The interplay between pre-existing cardiovascular diseases, such as hypertension, atherosclerosis, diabetes, and atrial fibrillation, and COVID-19 is also explored, revealing that individuals with such conditions are at heightened risk for both severe acute illness and long-term complications. Long-term immune activation and the persistence of viral antigens are increasingly recognized as contributors to ongoing cardiovascular damage, even in individuals with mild or asymptomatic initial infections. As the healthcare system continues to adapt to the long-term consequences of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, a deeper understanding of these cardiovascular manifestations is essential. This knowledge will inform the development of targeted strategies for prevention, clinical management, and rehabilitation of affected patients. Furthermore, the insights gained from the intersection of COVID-19 and cardiovascular health will be instrumental in shaping responses to future viral epidemics, highlighting the necessity for multidisciplinary approaches to patient care and public health preparedness. Full article

Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD) is the most common corneal endothelial dystrophy. It is characterized by the progressive loss of corneal endothelial cells (CECs), guttae formation on the Descemet membrane, and corneal edema, leading to visual impairment. Corneal transplantation remains the standard treatment, but it has limitations such as donor shortages, infection risk, and graft rejection. Rho-kinase (ROCK) inhibitors have emerged as a promising pharmacological alternative. These agents promote CEC proliferation, migration, and adhesion while inhibiting apoptosis and enhancing corneal endothelial wound healing. Several studies have demonstrated the efficacy of ROCK inhibitors in improving corneal clarity and endothelial function, particularly when used as an adjunct to Descemet Stripping Only (DSO) surgery. Additionally, they show potential in preventing corneal edema in FECD patients undergoing cataract surgery. The methodology involved a literature search through the PubMed and Medline databases using relevant keywords. Only peer-reviewed articles in English were included, with additional references from selected articles reviewed to ensure comprehensive coverage. ROCK inhibitors offer a novel pharmacological approach to managing FECD. They have shown potential in promoting endothelial cell regeneration and improving corneal functIion. Despite promising results, further research is required to determine ROCK inhibitors’ long-term safety, optimal dosing, and efficacy in surgical and non-surgical FECD patients. Their potential to delay or prevent corneal transplantation represents a significant advancement in FECD management. Full article

Background and Objectives: Carotid artery stenosis is a significant risk factor for ischemic stroke due to impaired cerebral blood flow (CBF). Even asymptomatic unilateral stenosis can induce subclinical cerebrovascular changes, potentially affecting both hemispheres through collateral circulation. This study aimed to systematically assess cerebral perfusion in asymptomatic individuals with unilateral carotid artery stenosis by comparing ipsilateral and contralateral hemispheres with healthy controls, challenging the assumption that the contralateral hemisphere remains unaffected. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study included 114 participants, comprising 54 asymptomatic individuals (mean age 65.5) with significant unilateral carotid stenosis and 60 age-matched controls (mean age 64.8). Cerebral perfusion was assessed using 1.5T Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) with pseudo-continuous arterial spin labeling (pCASL). CBF was measured bilaterally in four predefined middle cerebral artery (MCA) regions: precentral gyrus, lentiform nucleus, insular cortex, and temporal cortex. Statistical analyses included multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA), analysis of variance (ANOVA), paired t-tests, and discriminant analysis (DA). Results: Significant bilateral reductions in CBF were observed in individuals with carotid stenosis compared to controls (MANOVA and ANOVA, p < 0.001). The greatest perfusion deficit was in the ipsilateral insular cortex (49.88 ± 10.83 mL/100 g/min), followed by intermediate contralateral perfusion (51.49 ± 8.86 mL/100 g/min) and higher control values (58.78 ± 10.44 mL/100 g/min). DA indicated the insular cortex as the region with the highest discriminative contribution (64.7%). Conclusions: Unilateral carotid artery stenosis in asymptomatic individuals is associated with significant bilateral cerebral hypoperfusion, suggesting widespread hemodynamic effects. Pronounced perfusion deficits in the insular cortex underline its vulnerability. The observed contralateral perfusion reductions challenge the traditional use of the contralateral hemisphere as a reference standard, underscoring the need for comprehensive perfusion assessment in carotid artery disease. Full article

Background and Objectives: Spirituality and loneliness are widely recognized as important aspects of holistic healthcare. This observational study was conducted among hospitalized patients with chronic illnesses in a medical ward during three waves of the epidemic in Taiwan, from April 2022 to March 2023, to examine changes in spiritual needs and loneliness. Materials and Methods: These waves were classified as the first wave (outbreak period, April 2022 to July 2022); second wave (mitigation period, August 2022 to November 2022); and third wave (December 2022 to March 2023). The Spiritual Needs Scale and Loneliness Scale were used to assess changes in spiritual needs and loneliness of the enrolled patients across the different waves of the epidemic. Results: We found that the spiritual needs of the enrolled patients were higher during the outbreak period (F = 9.847, p < 0.001) compared to the other periods. In addition, loneliness was higher during the conclusion period (F = 45.764, p < 0.001) compared to the other two periods. Age (r = 0.261, p < 0.001) and the Charlson comorbidity index (r = 0.193, p < 0.01) were significantly positively correlated with spiritual needs. Furthermore, the number of daily confirmed COVID-19 cases (r = −0.392, p < 0.001) was significantly negatively correlated with loneliness. Conclusions: Hospitalized patients with chronic illnesses experienced heightened spiritual needs during the COVID-19 outbreak, while loneliness increased as the epidemic waned. The study’s prospective observational design is a strength, but incorporating additional temporal measures between periods would have enhanced the findings. Full article

Objectives: This study assessed the potential benefits of supplemental flunarizine administration in patients with sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) experiencing incomplete recovery with conventional steroid treatment. Methods: Thirty-nine SSNHL patients, unresponsive to conventional steroid therapy, received either oral ginkgo biloba (control group, n = 24) or a combination of oral ginkgo biloba and flunarizine (treatment group, n = 15). Pure-tone average (PTA) evaluation at 0.5, 1, 2, and 4 kHz was conducted upon each patient’s visits. A change of ≥10 dB was considered ‘significant hearing gain’. Results: The treatment group showed a higher rate of hearing gain ≥10 dB (46.7%) compared to the control group (12.5%) (p = 0.03). Additional treatment with flunarizine was associated with greater improvement in hearing thresholds compared with ginkgo biloba alone (p = 0.004), suggesting a potential therapeutic benefit. Conclusion: This retrospective study suggests that flunarizine may provide additional benefit in patients with SSNHL experiencing incomplete recovery following conventional steroid treatment. These findings are preliminary and require validation in larger, controlled studies. Full article

Background and Objectives: Indications for liver transplants are increasing worldwide due to the growing number of transplants performed on patients with significant cardiovascular and respiratory risk factors. Additional support for this trend comes from the growing use of marginal organs, which is made possible by donations made after circulatory death (DCD). Liver transplantation (LT) in such high-risk patients may be challenging and may require perioperative Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO). There is a lack of evidence on the best hemodynamic monitoring techniques for patients undergoing ECMO support during the perioperative period of LT. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the hemodynamic monitoring standards of patients supported by ECMO before, during, and after LT. Materials and Methods: Comprehensive research was conducted through the PubMed database, and 153 articles regarding patients who needed perioperative ECMO support were found. Among these, 18 articles were finally included in our analysis as the authors specified hemodynamic monitoring techniques and data. The articles included case reports, letters to the editor, and correspondence. Results: We identified 20 cases of patients supported by ECMO as a planned preoperative strategy (9 patients), as a rescue therapy during surgery (7 patients), and as a postoperative support (4 patients). Cardiac catheterism and echocardiography (transthoracic and transesophageal) were the authors’ most cited hemodynamic monitoring techniques. Conclusions: Data on hemodynamic monitoring methods used to manage patients supported by ECMO during the whole perioperative period of LT are poor and derived from descriptive low-quality studies. However, a multimodal approach that includes continuous monitoring of pulmonary pressures and echocardiography can increase diagnostic accuracy and improve the decision-making process to manage this complex patient population. Full article

Background and Objectives: Elevated von Willebrand factor (vWF) levels have been reported in malaria, but their relationship with disease severity remains unclear. This study aimed to compare vWF levels between Plasmodium-infected and uninfected individuals and assess changes in severe infections. Materials and Methods: The systematic review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42024558479). A comprehensive search across six databases identified studies reporting vWF levels in malaria. A meta-analysis was conducted using a random-effects model, with standardized mean difference (SMD) as the effect measure due to varying measurement units. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I² statistic. Results: Of 1647 identified records, 26 studies met the inclusion criteria. The meta-analysis showed significantly higher vWF levels in Plasmodium-infected individuals compared to uninfected controls (p < 0.001, SMD: 2.689 [95% CI 1.362; 4.017], I²: 98.1%, 12 studies, 3109 participants). However, no significant difference was found between severe and less severe cases (p = 0.051, SMD: 3.551 [95% CI −0.007; 7.109], I²: 99.3%, 8 studies, 1453 participants). Conclusions: vWF levels are significantly elevated in individuals with Plasmodium infections, indicating a potential role in malaria pathophysiology. Although levels tend to be higher in severe cases, current evidence is insufficient to support vWF as a reliable marker for disease severity. Further prospective and well-controlled studies are needed to validate its diagnostic and prognostic value in malaria management. Full article

Background and Objectives: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common chronic liver disease associated with significant morbidity, including cardiovascular complications. This study investigates the relationship between NAFLD and electrocardiographic parameters indicative of ventricular arrhythmia risk. Materials and Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study enrolling 136 patients with NAFLD and 136 healthy controls. Electrocardiographic parameters—Tp-e interval, QT and corrected QT (QTc) intervals, and Tp-e/QTc ratio—were measured and compared between groups. Results: Patients with NAFLD exhibited significantly higher Tp-e, QTc, Tp-e/QT ratio, and Tp-e/QTc ratio (p < 0.001, for all) than controls. Subgroup analysis showed progressive increases in Tp-e and Tp-e/QT ratio correlating with NAFLD severity (p < 0.001 and p = 0.001, respectively, for grade 1 vs. grade 2; p < 0.001 and p = 0.001, respectively, for grade 1 vs. grade 3). ROC analysis indicated that the Tp-e interval was a strong predictor for identifying grade 2 or more NAFLD (AUC 0.887, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Our findings highlight the association of NAFLD with prolonged electrocardiographic intervals that may predispose patients to ventricular arrhythmias. These parameters can serve as valuable markers for cardiac risk stratification in patients with NAFLD, suggesting the need for vigilant cardiac follow-up in this population. Full article