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Search Results (2,351)

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Keywords = patient-reported outcome measures

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15 pages, 1799 KB  
Article
The Biological Variation in Serum ACE and CPN/CPB2 Activity in Healthy Individuals as Measured by the Degradation of Dabsylated Bradykinin—Reference Data and the Importance of Pre-Analytical Standardization
by Malte Bayer, Michael Snyder and Simone König
Proteomes 2025, 13(3), 40; https://doi.org/10.3390/proteomes13030040 (registering DOI) - 27 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background: Bradykinin (BK) is an inflammatory mediator. The degradation of labeled synthetic BK in biofluids can be used to report on the activity of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) and basic carboxypeptidases N and CBP2, for which the neuropeptide is a substrate. Clinical studies have [...] Read more.
Background: Bradykinin (BK) is an inflammatory mediator. The degradation of labeled synthetic BK in biofluids can be used to report on the activity of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) and basic carboxypeptidases N and CBP2, for which the neuropeptide is a substrate. Clinical studies have shown significant changes in the serum activity of these enzymes in patients with inflammatory diseases. Methods: Here, we investigated variation in the cleavage of dabsylated synthetic BK (DBK) in serum and the formation of the major enzymatic fragments using a thin-layer chromatography-based neuropeptide reporter assay (NRA) in a large cohort of healthy volunteers from the international human Personal Omics Profiling consortium based at Stanford University. Results: Four major outcomes were reported. First, a set of NRA reference data for the healthy population was delivered, which is important for future investigations of patient sera. Second, it was shown that the measured serum degradation capacity for DBK was significantly higher in males than in females. There was no significant correlation of the NRA results with ethnicity, body mass index or overnight fasting. Third, a batch effect was noted among sampling sites (HUPO conferences). Thus, we used subcohorts rather than the entire collection for data mining. Fourth, as the low-cost and robust NRA is sensitive to enzyme activity, it provides such a necessary quick test to eliminate degraded and/or otherwise questionable samples. Conclusions: The results reiterate the critical importance of a high level of standardization in pre-analytical sample collection and processing—most notably, sample quality should be evaluated before conducting any large and expensive omics analyses. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Proteomics Technology and Methodology Development)
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14 pages, 406 KB  
Systematic Review
Comparison of Patient-Reported Outcome Measures Between Robotic-Assisted and Manual Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review with a Minimum 2-Year Follow-Up
by Itay Ron, Jacob Shapira, Ady H. Kahana-Rojkind, Roger Quesada and Benjamin G. Domb
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(17), 6036; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14176036 - 26 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Since robotic THA is a relatively new procedure, there is a paucity of high-quality research evaluating long-term PROMs, and as such this study aimed to compare the long term outcomes in robotic and manual THA. To systematically review the literature comparing mid- [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Since robotic THA is a relatively new procedure, there is a paucity of high-quality research evaluating long-term PROMs, and as such this study aimed to compare the long term outcomes in robotic and manual THA. To systematically review the literature comparing mid- to long-term patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) between robotic-assisted and manual THA. Methods: This study focused specifically on full-body text of studies comparing robotic and manual THA and comparing PROMs with a minimum of 2 years follow-up. Inclusion criteria were studies comparing robotic THA and manual THA and showing at least 1 PROMs with a minimum follow-up period of 2 years. Results: Five studies reported higher scores in 2-year follow-up for patient undergone robotic surgery. In addition, most studies did not show significant difference in dislocation nor revision rate between robotic and manual THA. Six studies assessed limb-length discrepancy using radiographic measurements and found no evidence of superior outcomes in either group. Conclusions: Based on the current evidence, this review identified evidence suggesting a trend toward better PROMs in patients operated on robotically. However, there was not enough evidence to conclude a correlation between lower risks for post-operative complications, revisions, and dislocations and robotic surgery. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hip Fracture and Surgery: Clinical Updates and Challenges)
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12 pages, 372 KB  
Article
Early Clinical Outcomes of a Nitrided Ti-6Al-4V Titanium Alloy Anatomic Total Knee Replacement System
by Derek Johnson, P. Maxwell Courtney, Henry Boucher, Erik Kowalski, Roberta E. Redfern and Krishna R. Tripuraneni
Osteology 2025, 5(3), 26; https://doi.org/10.3390/osteology5030026 - 26 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: To prevent potential complications for patients with metal hypersensitivity requiring total knee arthroplasty (TKA), implant coatings have been developed. Thermal nitriding of the titanium surface creates a TiN layer that increases hardness and wear resistance while preventing release of cobalt and chromium [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: To prevent potential complications for patients with metal hypersensitivity requiring total knee arthroplasty (TKA), implant coatings have been developed. Thermal nitriding of the titanium surface creates a TiN layer that increases hardness and wear resistance while preventing release of cobalt and chromium ions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical safety and performance of an anatomic implant system comprised of thermally nitrided Ti-6Al-4V. Methods: This is an ongoing prospective, multicenter observational cohort study of primary and revision TKA patients. Patient-reported outcome measures including the Oxford Knee Score (OKS), Knee Society Score (KSS) Expectations subscale, EQ-5D-5L, physical exams, and radiographic assessments to document abnormalities were investigated in 94 patients who provided at least two years of follow-up data. The primary endpoint was improvement in the Oxford Knee Score (OKS), defined as the minimal clinically important difference (MCID, 7.0 points). Results: All outcome measures including patient-reported function (OKS) demonstrated significant improvements (19.4–22.6 points) exceeding the MCID with no between-group differences by bearing types utilized. Health-related quality of life as measured by EQ-5D-5L improved over the cohort and was maintained at 2-years post-operative. In total, three (1.4%) radiographic abnormalities were observed, all of which resolved at two-year follow-up. 12 (5.3%) serious complications were reported, none of which were related to the device. Two revisions have occurred, one due to infection and one due to a fall, in the ultracongruent bearing cohort (survivorship 98.1%, 95%CI 87.4–99.7). Implant survivorship was 100% in all other bearing cohorts. Conclusions: This anatomically designed, thermally nitrided titanium alloy implant demonstrated clinically significant improvements in function, PROMs, and quality of life in patients undergoing TKA regardless of bearing type. Excellent two-year implant survivorship between 98.1% and 100% across cohorts were observed, with no radiographic abnormalities at 2 years. Full article
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16 pages, 330 KB  
Article
Early Injury-Related Predictors of Disability 6 Months After Moderate to Severe Trauma: A Longitudinal Study
by Christoph Schäfer, Håkon Øgreid Moksnes, Mari S. Rasmussen, Torgeir Hellstrøm, Helene Lundgaard Soberg, Olav Røise, Cecilie Røe, Shirin Frisvold, Kristian Bartnes, Pål Aksel Næss, Christine Gaarder, Eirik Helseth, Cathrine Brunborg, Nada Andelic and Audny Anke
Disabilities 2025, 5(3), 73; https://doi.org/10.3390/disabilities5030073 - 25 Aug 2025
Abstract
Trauma often causes long-lasting functional impairment, but the extent varies across populations. This study investigated disability six months after moderate to severe injury and identified sociodemographic and early injury-related predictors, including estimated rehabilitation complexity. Further, we assessed the implementation of direct transfer from [...] Read more.
Trauma often causes long-lasting functional impairment, but the extent varies across populations. This study investigated disability six months after moderate to severe injury and identified sociodemographic and early injury-related predictors, including estimated rehabilitation complexity. Further, we assessed the implementation of direct transfer from acute care in the trauma centre to specialised inpatient rehabilitation, bypassing local hospitals. In this prospective study 398 adults, treated from January 2020 to January 2021 at two Norwegian trauma centres, were included. Self-reported disability was measured using the 12-item World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0. Ordinal logistic regression was applied to identify predictors of the 6-month disability outcome. At follow-up, 22% reported no disability, 49% mild/moderate and 29% severe. In multivariable analyses, low education, comorbidities, number of injuries and higher estimated rehabilitation complexity at discharge from acute care were significantly associated with greater disability. Only 20% were transferred directly to specialised inpatient rehabilitation, while 17% went via local hospitals. Participants with orthopaedic injuries and women were less likely to be transferred directly. In summary, most participants experienced some disability at 6 months. Indirect pathways to specialised rehabilitation via local hospitals remained common. Understanding predictors of disability and optimising rehabilitation pathways may improve trauma rehabilitation outcomes, highlighting the need for guidelines that identify patients with high rehabilitation needs. Full article
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12 pages, 1081 KB  
Article
Retrospective Observational Cohort Study of Mid-Term Outcomes Following Ponseti Method for Idiopathic Clubfoot
by Gianluca Testa, Vito Pavone, Giovanni Maria Zerbito, Giorgia D’Amico, Mirko Sicurella, Federico Canavese and Marco Sapienza
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(17), 9316; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15179316 - 25 Aug 2025
Viewed by 64
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Commonly known as clubfoot, congenital talipes equinovarus (CTEV) is a structural deformity characterized by cavus, adductus, varus, and equinus (CAVE) positioning of the foot. Idiopathic clubfoot requires prompt treatment to achieve functional, pain-free, and aesthetically normal feet. The Ponseti method is a [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Commonly known as clubfoot, congenital talipes equinovarus (CTEV) is a structural deformity characterized by cavus, adductus, varus, and equinus (CAVE) positioning of the foot. Idiopathic clubfoot requires prompt treatment to achieve functional, pain-free, and aesthetically normal feet. The Ponseti method is a conservative treatment involving serial manipulation, casting, and Achilles tenotomy, which has demonstrated high success rates. The purpose of this study is to report 10 years of experience using the Ponseti method. Methods: A retrospective and follow-up analysis were conducted with 72 patients (118 feet) with idiopathic clubfoot were treated between 2011 and 2023 who met the minimum follow-up requirement of 12 months (mean follow-up: 54.15 months). The severity of deformities was assessed using the Pirani score. Data collection included demographic details, number of casts, tenotomy procedures, adherence to the Denis Browne brace protocol, and complications. Results: Initial correction of deformities was achieved in all 91 patients (100%). Outcomes were measured using the Ponseti functional scoring system. The average number of casts applied was 9.51 per patient. Percutaneous Achilles tenotomy was performed in 91.21% of cases. Relapse occurred in 22.2% of patients, which required additional treatments. The outcomes were excellent in 77.7% of cases, good in 13.88%, fair in 6.94%, and poor in 1.38%. Discussion: The Ponseti method is effective for idiopathic clubfoot treatment and achieves high rates of initial correction, favorable mid-term outcomes, and minimal complications. These results confirm its reliability and align with previously reported success rates. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Sports Science and Biomechanics)
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12 pages, 779 KB  
Article
Epidemiological-Based Study of SARS-CoV-2 in Faisalabad
by Sana Ullah, Muhammad Waseem Khan, Qurat-ul-Ain, Khushbu Farva, Niaz Muhammad Khan and Hayat Ullah
Zoonotic Dis. 2025, 5(3), 23; https://doi.org/10.3390/zoonoticdis5030023 - 25 Aug 2025
Viewed by 78
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) raced around the world across different populations; there needs to be a consolidated effort to understand the divergence of the epidemiology of SARS-CoV-2. Population-based epidemiological characteristics studies measure the extent of SARS-CoV-2 infection in a country. [...] Read more.
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) raced around the world across different populations; there needs to be a consolidated effort to understand the divergence of the epidemiology of SARS-CoV-2. Population-based epidemiological characteristics studies measure the extent of SARS-CoV-2 infection in a country. The current research study was designed to report epidemiological data from Pakistan. For this purpose, 246 SARS-CoV-2-infected patients were included in the study. For SARS-CoV-2 confirmation, viral samples were collected from all the study participants; SARS-CoV-2 infection was confirmed by viral nucleic acid detection using a nucleic acid detection kit. After SARS-CoV-2 confirmation, all the study participants were interviewed for epidemiological data through a detailed questionnaire. The study results showed that the disease ratio was higher between 30 and 59 years (51.21%) of age. The male ratio (55.28%) was higher compared to the female ratio (44.71%). The patients’ illiteracy and low socioeconomic status were 32.52% and 59.75%, respectively. The majority of the patients (97.56%) had cough, smell or taste disturbance (79.67%), or fever (76.42%), and 70.73% had fatigue. For comorbidities, a higher ratio was observed for diabetes (38.61%), hypertension (36.17%), and respiratory disease (16.26%). The vaccination status analysis revealed that 51.21% of patients had not received routine immunizations, and 65.5% were un-vaccinated against SARS-CoV-2. Notably, not a single patient was vaccinated for influenza vaccine. The current research study concluded that SARS-CoV-2 was more prevalent in individuals who were middle aged, male, and had low socio-economic status. The most common symptoms were cough, smell or taste disturbance, and fever. The patients’ vaccination status highlights a critical gap in preventive healthcare and shows the need to strengthen vaccination awareness and accessibility in the population to reduce vulnerability to future outbreaks. Future research should focus on investigating the impact of COVID-19 outcomes on comorbidities such as diabetes and hypertension. Full article
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41 pages, 639 KB  
Review
Clinical Role of Pharmacists in the Care of Incarcerated People at Correctional Facilities: A Scoping Review
by Christian Eduardo Castro Silva, Beatriz Bernava Sarinho, Michelle Bonafé, Tácio de Mendonça Lima, Inajara Rotta, Samara Jamile Mendes, Patricia Melo Aguiar and Marília Berlofa Visacri
Pharmacy 2025, 13(5), 113; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmacy13050113 - 24 Aug 2025
Viewed by 249
Abstract
This study aimed to map the literature on the clinical role of pharmacists in the care of incarcerated people at correctional facilities and to identify gaps in this field. A scoping review was conducted on 30 July 2024, using the PubMed, Scopus, and [...] Read more.
This study aimed to map the literature on the clinical role of pharmacists in the care of incarcerated people at correctional facilities and to identify gaps in this field. A scoping review was conducted on 30 July 2024, using the PubMed, Scopus, and LILACS databases. Gray literature was searched via Google Scholar, and references of included studies were manually reviewed. Primary studies of any design reporting pharmacists’ clinical services and/or activities for incarcerated individuals were eligible. Study selection and data extraction were performed independently by two reviewers, with a third resolving disagreements. The search yielded 894 records, from which 27 studies were included. Most studies were conducted in the United States (n = 16; 59%) and France (n = 7; 26%). Eleven (41%) focused exclusively on male populations, and one (4%) on female inmates. Most studies addressed pharmacists’ clinical roles in mental health conditions and substance use disorders (n = 9; 33%), infectious diseases (n = 5; 19%), and diabetes (n = 4; 15%). Clinical services and/or activities related to direct patient care were the most frequently reported (n = 18; 67%). Process measures were reported in 18 studies (67%), and clinical outcomes were the most common type of outcome (n = 13; 48%). This review highlights the pharmacist’s clinical role in treating mental health conditions and substance abuse, infectious diseases, and diabetes in incarcerated care. It underscores the need for further research in low- and middle-income countries, on women’s health, and on other prevalent conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pharmacy Practice and Practice-Based Research)
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18 pages, 2150 KB  
Systematic Review
Role of Radical Prostatectomy in Oligo-Metastatic Hormone-Sensitive Prostate Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
by Karthik Rajan, Kalpesh Parmar, Shri-Ishvarya Rajamoorthy, Robert Geraghty, Eleanor Whyte and Bhavan Prasad Rai
Cancers 2025, 17(17), 2757; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17172757 - 24 Aug 2025
Viewed by 230
Abstract
Introduction and Aims: Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) with systemic anti-cancer treatment (SACT) ± palliative radiotherapy (pRT) is the current standard of care for Oligo-metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer (o-mHSPC). Cytoreductive radical prostatectomy (cRP) has gained interest in this group of patients, with potential benefits [...] Read more.
Introduction and Aims: Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) with systemic anti-cancer treatment (SACT) ± palliative radiotherapy (pRT) is the current standard of care for Oligo-metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer (o-mHSPC). Cytoreductive radical prostatectomy (cRP) has gained interest in this group of patients, with potential benefits including reduced tumour burden and a lower risk of local events from disease progression. In this review, we compare both survival outcomes and local event rates between cRP and upfront ADT ± SACT. Methods: All randomised trials and observational studies comparing cRP with standard treatment (ST), which we defined as ADT ± SACT for o-mHSPC, were included in the review. The study protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42024516586), and the review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). The databases searched included Embase, Medline, Cochrane Library, PubMed, and Web of Science. A risk of bias assessment was performed for the included studies as recommended by the Cochrane Handbook of Systematic Reviews and Interventions. The primary outcome measures were Overall Survival (OS), Cancer-Specific Survival (CSS), Progression-free Survival (PFS), Castrate-resistant Prostate Cancer-free Survival (CRPC-FS), and local complication rates. The secondary outcome measures were complication rates and functional outcomes post-cRP. Results: A total of 5130 studies were identified for this review (5119 by database searching and 11 through manual searching). Eight studies were included in the review, comprising 611 patients. cRP was identified to have superior OS (HR: 0.56 (95% CI: 0.34–0.92), I2 = 0%, p = 0.02 (very low certainty)) and CSS (HR: 0.27 (95% CI: 0.15–0.47), I2 = 0%, p < 0.0001 (very low certainty)). The PFS (HR: 0.67 (95% CI: 0.34–1.33), I2 = 58%, p = 0.25 (very low certainty)) and CRPC-FS (HR: 0.67 (95% CI: 0.32–1.43), I2 = 57%, p = 0.30 (very low certainty)) were similar between the two groups. The rates of local events were significantly lower in patients undergoing cRP (RR 0.27 (95% CI: 0.13–0.59), I2 = 17%, p = 0.001 (low certainty)). The rates of Clavien–Dindo (CD) grade 3 or higher complications ranged from 0% to 13.1%. Additionally, the reported continence rates ranged from 81.5% to 91.3%. The review is limited by the lack of a uniform definition for o-mHSPC and the predominance of low-quality, heterogeneous studies. Despite mitigation strategies, the overall certainty of evidence remains very low per GRADE assessment. Conclusion: cRP significantly reduces local event rates compared with ST and offers comparable PFS and CFPC-FS, with superior OS and CSS in the cRP arm compared to the ST arm in patients with o-mHSPC. However, there is a paucity of high-quality literature on this subject. Ongoing randomised controlled trials may soon clarify the role of cRP in the context of o-mHSPC concerning survival benefits. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Advances in Surgery for Prostate Cancer)
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14 pages, 1692 KB  
Systematic Review
The Safety of Abiraterone Acetate in Patients with Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer: An Individual-Participant Data Meta-Analysis Based on 14 Randomized Clinical Trials
by Amy L. Shaver, Nikita Nikita, Swapnil Sharma, Scott W. Keith, Kevin K. Zarrabi, Wm. Kevin Kelly and Grace Lu-Yao
Cancers 2025, 17(17), 2747; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17172747 - 23 Aug 2025
Viewed by 211
Abstract
Background/objectives: Multiple systemic treatments are available for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC), with unclear safety profiles. This study seeks to describe the safety determined in randomized clinical trials of a systemic treatment for mCRPC and whether safety differs by age. Methods: [...] Read more.
Background/objectives: Multiple systemic treatments are available for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC), with unclear safety profiles. This study seeks to describe the safety determined in randomized clinical trials of a systemic treatment for mCRPC and whether safety differs by age. Methods: We utilized individual patient data from industry-funded phase 2/3 trials in mCRPC on abiraterone acetate (AA). Vivli, a clinical trial repository site, was used. One investigator independently performed screening. Relative effects of treatment were assessed with frequencies and odds of serious adverse events (SAEs). The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guideline was used. Subgroup analysis measured odds of SAEs as modified by age. Results: We identified 14 trials with 4296 patients. The median age of participants was 69 years. Nearly all participants experienced at least one adverse event (98.4% abiraterone, 97.3% standard of care [SOC]). More serious adverse events (grade 3 or 4) and deaths (grade 5) occurred in those receiving SOC (71.8%) compared to abiraterone (64.1%). The most frequent adverse event category was “Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue Disorders”. The most frequent event types included anemia, back pain, hypertension, fatigue, hypokalemia, and bone pain. The odds of all events were lower in those receiving abiraterone compared to SOC. Odds of a serious musculoskeletal event were lower in older subjects by 22% (OR 0.78; 95% CI 0.63, 0.96). Conclusions: In this IPD meta-analysis, abiraterone acetate provides no greater risk of SAE in those receiving abiraterone than those receiving SOCs. Patients in the RCTs are younger and healthier than those in the general population; consequently, the results of RCTS might not be applied to the general population, especially those under-represented in the RCTs. There is a need to further evaluate abiraterone-related fractures and neuromuscular toxicities (NMTs) as key outcomes to gain insight into risk factors related to these adverse events. A real-world prospective study is warranted to examine the overall risks and benefits associated with treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into General, Functional and Oncologic Urology)
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11 pages, 286 KB  
Article
Treatment Adherence in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: The Role of Demographic, Clinical, and Psychosocial Factors
by Tudor Gheorghe Stroie, Liliana Veronica Diaconescu, Carmen Preda, Mircea Diculescu, Teodora Mihaela Chirea, Doina Istratescu, Corina Meianu, Rucsandra Diculescu, Cosmin Ciora, Cristian George Tieranu and Ovidiu Popa-Velea
Medicina 2025, 61(9), 1512; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61091512 - 23 Aug 2025
Viewed by 108
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) are chronic conditions of the digestive tract, often requiring life-long treatments in order to achieve and maintain remission. However, treatment adherence among patients with IBD can frequently be suboptimal, which can compromise disease control and [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) are chronic conditions of the digestive tract, often requiring life-long treatments in order to achieve and maintain remission. However, treatment adherence among patients with IBD can frequently be suboptimal, which can compromise disease control and long-term outcomes. The aim of this study was to analyze the adherence rate and to identify factors that significantly influence treatment adherence in patients with IBD. Materials and Methods: The study employed a cross-sectional design and was conducted at the Fundeni Clinical Institute, a tertiary medical center in Bucharest, Romania. The treatment adherence was assessed using the Medication Adherence Report Scale-5 (MARS-5), with patients scoring greater than 23 considered adherent. Anxiety, depression and perceived stress were assessed using the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21). Perceived social support was measured with the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), and coping strategies were assessed using the Brief Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced Inventory (Brief COPE Inventory). Results: A total of 188 patients were included in the final analysis. Of these, 99 patients (52.7%) were male and 109 (58.0%) had a diagnosis of Crohn’s disease. The majority of patients (81.9%) were receiving treatment with advanced therapies, including biologics or small molecules. Forty patients were receiving their therapy through more than one route of administration. Optimal adherence was noted in 160 patients (85.1%). Patients treated with advanced therapies (biologics and small molecules) had significantly higher odds of optimal adherence (OR 10.52, 95% CI: 4.3–25.74, p < 0.001), with a rate of adherence of 92.2%. Significantly lower odds of adherence were found for the oral (OR 0.35, 95% CI: 0.14–0.83, p = 0.01) and rectal (OR 0.09, 95% CI: 0.03–0.29, p < 0.001) routes of administration, while the intravenous administration had higher odds of adherence (OR 4.85, 95% CI: 1.02–22.9, p = 0.04) compared to the subcutaneous route. Other factors associated with an improved adherence were being retired (OR 3.5, 95% CI: 1.13–10.8, p = 0.029) and using positive reframing (p = 0.04), planning (p = 0.01) and venting (p = 0.02) as coping strategies; active smoking (OR 0.26, 95% CI: 0.11–0.6, p = 0.002), active disease (OR 0.36, 95% CI: 0.16–0.81, p = 0.014) and behavioral disengagement (p = 0.04) were associated with impaired treatment adherence. No significant differences in adherence were observed between disease phenotypes. Conclusions: The route of administration, smoking status and psychosocial factors, such as perceived stress of social support and coping strategies, may play an important role in influencing treatment adherence in patients with IBD. While the disease phenotype was not associated with differences in adherence, patients with active disease had significantly lower odds of optimal adherence. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Gastroenterology & Hepatology)
13 pages, 488 KB  
Systematic Review
Carbon Ion and Proton Therapy in Sacral Chordoma: A Systematic Review
by Andrea Santoro, Riccardo Totti, Alessandro El Motassime, Cesare Meschini, Doriana Di Costa, Elena Gabrielli, Giulio Maccauro and Raffaele Vitiello
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(17), 5947; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14175947 - 22 Aug 2025
Viewed by 485
Abstract
Background: chordomas are characterized as locally aggressive yet infrequently metastasizing malignant neoplasms of bone, primarily arising in the axial skeleton, with a notable prevalence in the sacral region. En bloc resection is recognized as the standard treatment for sacral chordoma; however, its [...] Read more.
Background: chordomas are characterized as locally aggressive yet infrequently metastasizing malignant neoplasms of bone, primarily arising in the axial skeleton, with a notable prevalence in the sacral region. En bloc resection is recognized as the standard treatment for sacral chordoma; however, its feasibility is not universally guaranteed. Therefore, definitive proton, carbon ion, or photon therapy is often utilized as an alternative to surgical intervention or as a (neo-)adjuvant measure in conjunction with surgery, owing to their role in enhancing local control. Methods: a search of PubMed yielded 127 articles, with 18 that were ultimately included in the review. This review aims to systematically evaluate clinical outcomes and complications associated with hadron therapy in cases of sacral chordomas. The review followed the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines, including publication dates up to January 2025. Results: data extraction showed promising outcomes for patients treated with hadron therapy alone or when hadron therapy was used as an adjuvant for surgery, even if complications are described. The 5-year overall survival estimated from evaluating 10 of 18 articles was 82.4%, although some articles reported different results in shorter follow-up periods. Skin ulceration and pain were described in 323 (29%) and 186 (16%) patients, respectively. Chronic complications reported were sacral fractures, metastasis, rectal disorders, urinary disorders, and peripheral motor and sensory neuropathy. Conclusions: hadron therapy represents a highly effective and promising treatment for sacral chordomas. In cases of inoperable tumors, it has demonstrated outcomes comparable to surgery while significantly reducing treatment-related morbidity. Hadron therapy is also viable as adjuvant therapy and provides superior outcomes for patients who undergo surgery with positive margins compared to those treated with surgery alone, improving local control and overall prognosis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Oncology)
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48 pages, 2541 KB  
Review
Impact of Exercise Therapy on Outcomes in Patients with Low Back Pain: An Umbrella Review of Systematic Reviews
by Dmitriy Viderman, Sultan Kalikanov, Zhuldyz Myrkhiyeva, Shakhrizat Alisherov, Mukhit Dossov, Serik Seitenov and Yerkin Abdildin
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(17), 5942; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14175942 - 22 Aug 2025
Viewed by 412
Abstract
Objective: This umbrella review aims to analyze the effectiveness of exercise therapy for low back pain through an analysis of systematic reviews that evaluate pain reduction, quality of life improvement, and functional outcomes. Methods: This review adhered to PRISMA guidelines and [...] Read more.
Objective: This umbrella review aims to analyze the effectiveness of exercise therapy for low back pain through an analysis of systematic reviews that evaluate pain reduction, quality of life improvement, and functional outcomes. Methods: This review adhered to PRISMA guidelines and systematic review of review recommendations by searching across PubMed, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library. This study searched for systematic reviews alongside meta-analyses that evaluated exercise interventions in treating low back pain (LBP). This study included reviews that examined exercise therapy for LBP patients and presented data regarding their pain intensity, disability, and quality-of-life outcomes. Data extraction and quality assessment were performed independently by several reviewers. The methodological quality of the included systematic reviews was assessed using the AMSTAR 2 tool. Results: This research yielded 88 systematic reviews from 997 evaluated records. Reduction of pain emerged as the primary measured outcome in systematic reviews (81.8%, n = 72), and these studies showed significant improvement rates of 83.0%. The proportion of studies that concluded no change was 9.1%. The most frequently studied exercises were strengthening, aerobic, and mind–body exercises. The reviews reported quality of life improvements in 27.3% (n = 24), but most reviews (68.2%) did not assess this outcome. No studies indicated worsening outcomes. Exercise interventions demonstrated various forms that effectively contribute to LBP management, according to the study results. Conclusions: This umbrella review of 88 systematic reviews highlights that exercise therapy is a safe, effective, and commonly used strategy for managing low back pain. However, key limitations include the low methodological quality of several included reviews, risk of bias, imprecision, limited reporting of adverse effects, and confounding from multicomponent interventions. While there is limited certainty that any one type of exercise is more effective than others, individualized approaches and patient adherence appear to be critical factors in optimizing outcomes. Full article
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15 pages, 1106 KB  
Review
Temporary Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS) of the Cervical Medial Branch Nerve (CMBN) for Chronic Axial Neck Pain—A Literature Review and Case Series
by Vinicius Tieppo Francio, Kelsey Gustafson, Logan Leavitt, Ryan Zwick, Christopher M. Lam, Andrew Sack, Dawood Sayed and Usman Latif
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(16), 5910; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14165910 - 21 Aug 2025
Viewed by 278
Abstract
Background: Peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) has been employed as a therapeutic modality for managing chronic pain across diverse etiologies and neural targets. Nevertheless, its application in treating chronic axial neck pain remains markedly underexplored. Accordingly, this study aimed to both review the existing [...] Read more.
Background: Peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) has been employed as a therapeutic modality for managing chronic pain across diverse etiologies and neural targets. Nevertheless, its application in treating chronic axial neck pain remains markedly underexplored. Accordingly, this study aimed to both review the existing literature and present a retrospective single-center case series of patients who underwent temporary PNS targeting the cervical medial branch nerves (CMBNs) for chronic axial neck pain. Methods: This investigation comprises a narrative literature review alongside a single-center, retrospective case series evaluating percutaneous, temporary PNS for the management of cervical spondylosis facet arthropathy in the absence of myelopathy or radiculopathy. The primary outcomes were pain reduction, as measured by the numeric rating scale, and improvements in functional disability, with assessments conducted at baseline and at 60 days post-intervention. Results: PNS represents a neuromodulatory, nondestructive intervention that targets the CMBN to alleviate chronic axial neck pain, in contrast to the destructive mechanisms inherent in cervical radiofrequency ablation (CRFA). Although PNS has been applied to other neural targets, its use in the cervical region is sparsely documented, with limited case studies available. Notably, this case series is the first to report pain and disability outcomes specifically associated with CMBN PNS. At the 60-day follow-up, 66% of subjects achieved the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) for pain reduction, while 77% met the MCID for disability reduction. Moreover, our analysis uniquely examined the impact of previous CRFA and a history of cervical spine surgery on treatment outcomes, revealing that patients with such interventions experienced more modest improvements compared to their surgery- and CRFA-naive counterparts. Conclusions: The current literature reveals a significant gap regarding the use of CMBN PNS, underscoring an unmet need in the treatment algorithm for chronic axial neck pain beyond conservative modalities. Our findings suggest that CMBN PNS may offer a promising adjunctive therapy for carefully selected patients with refractory chronic axial neck pain who have not improved after medications, physical therapy, or injections. Additionally, the comparative analysis of outcomes in patients with a history of CRFA or cervical surgery underscores potential advantages of PNS prior to destructive therapies. Future research, ideally in the form of prospective studies with larger cohorts and extended follow-up durations, is warranted to further evaluate long-term outcomes and refine the place of PNS in the treatment algorithm. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Neck Pain: Advancements in Assessment and Contemporary Management)
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10 pages, 237 KB  
Article
Clinical Setting Does Not Impact Baseline Patient Reported Outcomes Measures in Patients Undergoing Anterior Cervical Diskectomy and Fusion: A Prospective Study
by Rohan Gopinath, Rohan I. Suresh, Hershil Patel, Ivan B. Ye, Alexandra E. Thomson, Jacob Bruckner, Julio J. Jauregui, Ali A. Aneizi, Louis J. Bivona, Daniel L. Cavanaugh, Eugene Y. Koh, R. Frank Henn, Daniel Gelb and Steven C. Ludwig
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(16), 5852; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14165852 - 19 Aug 2025
Viewed by 260
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) are widely used tools in orthopedic surgery for evaluating clinical outcomes, guiding research, and supporting value-based care. However, the optimal timing for collecting baseline PROMs, whether in clinic prior to surgery or on the day of surgery, [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) are widely used tools in orthopedic surgery for evaluating clinical outcomes, guiding research, and supporting value-based care. However, the optimal timing for collecting baseline PROMs, whether in clinic prior to surgery or on the day of surgery, remains uncertain. This study investigated whether the clinical setting (preoperative clinic vs. day of surgery) affects baseline PROMs in patients undergoing anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF). Methods: Patients undergoing elective, primary ACDF at a single institution between August 2019 and June 2021 were prospectively enrolled. Inclusion criteria included age over 18, English literacy, and eligibility for primary ACDF. Participants completed PROMIS domains, Neck Disability Index (NDI), Modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association (mJOA) score, and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) at two time points: during the preoperative clinic visit and again in the perioperative area on the day of surgery. A subgroup analysis was performed for patients with anxiety, defined as a PROMIS anxiety score ≥ 59.4. Results: A total of 63 patients were enrolled, with 48 completing both sets of surveys. The average time between the two assessments was 7.9 days (95% CI: 6.4–9.3). After Bonferroni correction (α = 0.005), no significant differences were observed in any PROMs across the two time points, including PROMIS physical function (p = 0.398), pain interference (p = 0.682), fatigue (p = 0.019), social satisfaction (p = 0.331), anxiety (p = 0.047), depression (p = 0.042), NDI (p = 0.072), mJOA (p = 0.566), VAS neck pain (p = 0.054), or VAS overall pain (p = 0.335). Subgroup analysis of anxious patients similarly revealed no statistically significant changes between settings. Conclusions: PROM scores were not meaningfully different between the preoperative clinic and the day of surgery in patients undergoing ACDF. These results are most applicable when baseline PROMs are collected within about one week of ACDF. These findings support flexibility in workflow design for PROM collection, as the timing and setting do not significantly impact baseline responses. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Orthopedic Surgery: Latest Advances and Future Prospects)
22 pages, 1940 KB  
Systematic Review
OnabotulinumtoxinA in the Management of Pain in Adult Patients with Spasticity: A Systematic Literature Review
by Francesca Bianchi, Mariana Nelson, Jörg Wissel, Heakyung Kim, Alexandra Traut, Darshini Shah, Tiziana Musacchio and Bahman Jabbari
Toxins 2025, 17(8), 418; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxins17080418 - 18 Aug 2025
Viewed by 291
Abstract
Many patients with spasticity report pain which can be debilitating. Numerous studies have shown onabotulinumtoxinA (onabotA) is efficacious in the management of spasticity but comprehensive data on its impact on spasticity-associated pain is limited. This systematic review aimed to assess the published evidence [...] Read more.
Many patients with spasticity report pain which can be debilitating. Numerous studies have shown onabotulinumtoxinA (onabotA) is efficacious in the management of spasticity but comprehensive data on its impact on spasticity-associated pain is limited. This systematic review aimed to assess the published evidence on the efficacy of onabotA in the management of pain in adults with spasticity. Search strategies were conducted from 1990 to 2023 for journal publications and from 2020 to 2023 for congress proceedings to identify relevant studies on onabotA in adults with spasticity where pain was a reported outcome. Of 665 records identified, 31 unique studies from 33 publications were included (2740 patients). Twenty-seven studies demonstrated a reduction in pain compared to baseline following treatment with onabotA in adults with spasticity (n = 2740). Of these, 12 studies reported a statistically significant reduction in pain with onabotA versus baseline. Sixteen studies reported a clinically meaningful reduction in pain (≥30% reduction). The reduction in pain with onabotA was consistent across etiologies and a range of pain measures. There was a high level of heterogeneity in the design and quality of the studies identified, which limited statistical analysis; however, the published evidence overall shows a consistent positive trend for the use of onabotA in reducing spasticity-related pain in adults. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Botulinum Toxins: New Uses in the Treatment of Diseases (2nd Edition))
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