Journal of Personalized Medicine

Research

11 pages, 1282 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Artichoke (Cynara Scolymus) Methanolic Leaf Extract Alleviates Diethylnitrosamine-Induced Toxicity in BALB/c Mouse Brain: Involvement of Oxidative Stress and Apoptotically Related Klotho/PPARγ Signaling

by Betul Cicek, Sidika Genc, Yesim Yeni, Mehmet Kuzucu, Ahmet Cetin, Serkan Yildirim, Ismail Bolat, Mecit Kantarci, Ahmet Hacimuftuoglu, Georgios Lazopoulos, Aristidis Tsatsakis, Konstantinos Tsarouhas and Ali Taghizadehghalehjoughi

J. Pers. Med. 2022, 12(12), 2012; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm12122012 - 4 Dec 2022

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 2848

Abstract

(1) Background: Various epidemiological studies suggest that oxidative stress and disrupted neuronal function are mechanistically linked to neurodegenerative diseases (NDs), including Parkinson’s disease (PD) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). DNA damage, oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation, and eventually, cell death such as NDs can be [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Various epidemiological studies suggest that oxidative stress and disrupted neuronal function are mechanistically linked to neurodegenerative diseases (NDs), including Parkinson’s disease (PD) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). DNA damage, oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation, and eventually, cell death such as NDs can be induced by nitrosamine-related compounds, leading to neurodegeneration. A limited number of studies have reported that exposure to diethylnitrosamine (DEN), which is commonly found in processed/preserved foods, causes biochemical abnormalities in the brain. Artichoke leaves have been used in traditional medicine as a beneficial source of bioactive components such as hydroxycinnamic acids, cynarine, chlorogenic acid, and flavonoids (luteolin and apigenin). The aim of this study is to investigate the favorable effects of exogenous artichoke (Cynara scolymus) methanolic leaf extract supplementation in ameliorating DEN-induced deleterious effects in BALB/c mouse brains. (2) Methods: This study was designed to evaluate DEN (toxicity induction by 100 mg/kg) and artichoke (protective effects of 0.8 and 1.6 g/kg treatment) for 14 days. All groups underwent a locomotor activity test to evaluate motor activity. In brain tissue, oxidative stress indicators (TAC, TOS, and MDA), Klotho and PPARγ levels, and apoptotic markers (Bax, Bcl-2, and caspase-3) were measured. Brain slices were also examined histopathologically. (3) Results: Artichoke effectively ameliorated DEN-induced toxicity with increasing artichoke dose. Impaired motor function and elevated oxidative stress markers (decreasing MDA and TOS levels and increasing TAC level) induced by DEN intoxication were markedly restored by high-dose artichoke treatment. Artichoke significantly improved the levels of Klotho and PPARγ, which are neuroprotective factors, in mouse brain tissue exposed to DEN. In addition, caspase-3 and Bax levels were reduced, whereas the Bcl-2 level was elevated with artichoke treatment. Furthermore, recovery was confirmed by histopathological analysis. (4) Conclusions: Artichoke exerted neuroprotective effects against DEN-induced brain toxicity by mitigating oxidant parameters and exerting antioxidant and antiapoptotic effects. Further research is needed to fully identify the favorable impact of artichoke supplementation on all aspects of DEN brain intoxication. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Trends in Precision Medicine)

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24 pages, 6138 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Detecting the Effect Size of Weather Conditions on Patient-Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs)

by Frida Milella, Andrea Seveso, Lorenzo Famiglini, Giuseppe Banfi and Federico Cabitza

J. Pers. Med. 2022, 12(11), 1811; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm12111811 - 1 Nov 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1743

Abstract

One of the next frontiers in medical research, particularly in orthopaedic surgery, is personalized treatment outcome prediction. In personalized medicine, treatment choices are adjusted for the patient based on the individual’s and their disease’s distinct features. A high-value and patient-centered health care system [...] Read more.

One of the next frontiers in medical research, particularly in orthopaedic surgery, is personalized treatment outcome prediction. In personalized medicine, treatment choices are adjusted for the patient based on the individual’s and their disease’s distinct features. A high-value and patient-centered health care system requires evaluating results that integrate the patient’s viewpoint. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) are widely used to shed light on patients’ perceptions of their health status after an intervention by using validated questionnaires. The aim of this study is to examine whether meteorological or light (night vs. day) conditions affect PROM scores and hence indirectly affect health-related outcomes. We collected scores for PROMs from questionnaires completed by patients (N = 2326) who had undergone hip and knee interventions between June 2017 and May 2020 at the IRCCS Orthopaedic Institute Galeazzi (IOG), Milan, Italy. Nearest neighbour propensity score (PS) matching was applied to ensure the similarity of the groups tested under the different weather-related conditions. The exposure PS was derived through logistic regression. The data were analysed using statistical tests (Student’s t-test and Mann−Whitney U test). According to Cohen’s effect size, weather conditions may affect the scores for PROMs and, indirectly, health-related outcomes via influencing the relative humidity and weather-related conditions. The findings suggest avoiding PROMs’ collection in certain conditions if the odds of outcome-based underperformance are to be minimized. This would ensure a balance between costs for PROMs’ collection and data availability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Trends in Precision Medicine)

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15 pages, 3171 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Application of Machine Learning to Improve Appropriateness of Treatment in an Orthopaedic Setting of Personalized Medicine

by Frida Milella, Lorenzo Famiglini, Giuseppe Banfi and Federico Cabitza

J. Pers. Med. 2022, 12(10), 1706; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm12101706 - 12 Oct 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1936

Abstract

The rise of personalized medicine and its remarkable advancements have revealed new requirements for the availability of appropriate medical decision-making models. Computer science is an area that plays an essential role in the field of personalized medicine, where one of the goals is [...] Read more.

The rise of personalized medicine and its remarkable advancements have revealed new requirements for the availability of appropriate medical decision-making models. Computer science is an area that plays an essential role in the field of personalized medicine, where one of the goals is to provide algorithms and tools to extrapolate knowledge and improve the decision-support process. The minimum clinically important difference (MCID) is the smallest change in PROM scores that patients perceive as meaningful. Treatment that does not achieve the minimum level of improvement is considered inappropriate as well as a potential waste of resources. Using the MCID threshold to identify patients who fail to achieve the minimum change in PROM that results in a meaningful outcome may aid in pre-surgical shared decision-making. The decision tree algorithm is a method for extracting valuable information and providing further meaningful information to the domain expert that supports the decision-making. In the present study, different tools based on machine learning were developed. On the one hand, we compared three XGBoost models to predict the non-achievement of the MCID at six months post-operation in the SF-12 physical score. The prediction score threshold was set to 0.75 to provide three decision-making areas on the basis of the high confidence (HC) intervals; the minority class was re-balanced by weighting the positive class to penalize the loss function (XGBoost cost-sensitive), oversampling the minority class (XGBoost with SMOTE), and re-sampling the negative class (XGBoost with undersampling). On the other hand, we modeled the data through a decision tree (assessment tree), based on different complexity levels, to identify the hidden pattern and to provide a new way to understand possible relationships between the gathered features and the several outcomes. The results showed that all the proposed models were effective as binary classifiers, as they showed moderate predictive performance both regarding the minority or positive class (i.e., our targeted patients, those who will not benefit from surgery) and the negative class. The decision tree visualization can be exploited during the patient assessment status to better understand if those patients will benefit or not from the medical intervention. Both of these tools can come in handy for increasing knowledge about the patient’s psychophysical state and for creating an increasingly specialized assessment of the individual patient. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Trends in Precision Medicine)

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9 pages, 240 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Diagnosis, Management and Prescription Practices of Adrenaline in Children with Food-Induced Anaphylaxis: Audit in a Specialized Pediatric Allergy Department

by Konstantinos Vamvakaris, Alkmini Koumpoura, Maria Farmaki, John Lakoumentas, Maria Pasioti, Nikolaos Papadopoulos and Paraskevi Xepapadaki

J. Pers. Med. 2022, 12(9), 1477; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm12091477 - 9 Sep 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2881

Abstract

In the era of evidence-based medicine, physicians worldwide should abide by universally approved practices and healthcare units should seek quality control and operational improvement. This audit evaluates the degree of compliance with the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology guidelines for the [...] Read more.

In the era of evidence-based medicine, physicians worldwide should abide by universally approved practices and healthcare units should seek quality control and operational improvement. This audit evaluates the degree of compliance with the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of anaphylaxis in a pediatric Allergy Department. Medical records of 248 children with food-induced allergic reactions who presented both on emergency and outpatient basis were reviewed. Data were also collected from the e-prescription database and anaphylaxis severity was graded according to Sampson’s criteria. An accuracy metric was used to calculate the consistency rate. Anaphylaxis was documented in 188/423 allergic reactions. The degree of agreement for the classification of the reactions as anaphylactic was 88.3%, while the respective rate for non-anaphylactic was 58.7%. In the anaphylactic cases, adrenaline was prescribed in 84.8%, while the respective rates for other drugs were: antihistamines: 27.6%; corticosteroids: 26.1%; inhaled β2-agonists: 11.8%. This study, through the example of pediatric food-induced anaphylaxis, underlines the significance of compliance to guidelines, organized documentation in healthcare units using specially formulated medical history forms and continuous medical stuff training. Thus, diagnosis and treatment practices can be improved for the benefit of patients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Trends in Precision Medicine)

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11 pages, 715 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effectiveness of a Comprehensive Mental Health Literacy Educational Programme for Junior High School Students: A Randomised Controlled Trial Examining Changes in Their Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behaviour

by Ryoichi Mori, Takashi Uchino, Masafumi Mizuno, Taiju Yamaguchi, Naoyuki Katagiri and Takahiro Nemoto

J. Pers. Med. 2022, 12(8), 1281; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm12081281 - 4 Aug 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3446

Abstract

Background: This study evaluated the effectiveness of a comprehensive mental health literacy (MHL) educational programme known as “Sanita” for improving junior high school students’ knowledge of mental illness, attitudes towards people with mental health problems, and help-seeking behaviour. Methods: A randomised controlled trial [...] Read more.

Background: This study evaluated the effectiveness of a comprehensive mental health literacy (MHL) educational programme known as “Sanita” for improving junior high school students’ knowledge of mental illness, attitudes towards people with mental health problems, and help-seeking behaviour. Methods: A randomised controlled trial with a parallel-group design was conducted. A total of 125 students (51 in the intervention group and 74 in the control group) received three 50-min classes and completed self-report questionnaires (Mental Illness and Disorder Understanding Scale, MIDUS; Reported and Intended Behaviour Scale, RIBS-J; and an original questionnaire investigating help-seeking behaviour) before and after the programme and three months later. Results: Regarding MIDUS, the post-test and 3-month follow-up test results showed a significant main effect of time-by-group interactions in a linear mixed model. Regarding RIBS-J, the post-test results showed a significant main effect of time-by-group interactions; however, the 3-month follow-up test showed no significant effect. No significant effects of time-by-group interactions were seen in the post-test and 3-month follow-up test results for help-seeking behaviour in a logistic regression-mixed model. Conclusions: The Sanita MHL educational programme was longitudinally effective at improving junior high school students’ knowledge of mental illness, although improvements in attitudes and help-seeking behaviour were insufficient. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Trends in Precision Medicine)

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13 pages, 285 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Mediterranean Diet Combined with CrossFit Training on Trained Adults’ Performance and Body Composition

by Salvatore Ficarra, Domenico Di Raimondo, Giovanni Angelo Navarra, Mohammad Izadi, Alessandra Amato, Francesco Paolo Macaluso, Patrizia Proia, Gaia Musiari, Carola Buscemi, Anna Maria Barile, Cristiana Randazzo, Antonino Tuttolomondo, Silvio Buscemi and Marianna Bellafiore

J. Pers. Med. 2022, 12(8), 1238; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm12081238 - 28 Jul 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3355

Abstract

CrossFit is a high-intensity training discipline increasingly practiced in recent years. Specific nutritional approaches are usually recommended to maximize performance and improve body composition in high-intensity training regimens; notwithstanding, to date there are no targeted nutritional recommendations for CrossFit athletes. The Mediterranean Diet [...] Read more.

CrossFit is a high-intensity training discipline increasingly practiced in recent years. Specific nutritional approaches are usually recommended to maximize performance and improve body composition in high-intensity training regimens; notwithstanding, to date there are no targeted nutritional recommendations for CrossFit athletes. The Mediterranean Diet (MD) is a diet approach with a well-designed proportion of macronutrients, using only available/seasonal food of the Mediterranean area, whose health benefits are well demonstrated. No studies have evaluated this dietary strategy among CrossFit athletes and practitioners; for this reason, we tested the effects of 8 weeks of MD on CrossFit athletes’ performance and body composition. Participants were assigned to two groups: a diet group (DG) in which participants performed CrossFit training plus MD, and a control group (CG) in which participants partook in the CrossFit training, continuing their habitual diet. Participants were tested before and after the 8 weeks of intervention. At the end of the study, no significant difference was noted in participants’ body composition, whereas improvements in anaerobic power, explosive strength of the lower limbs, and CrossFit-specific performance were observed only in the DG. Our results suggest that adopting a MD in CrossFit athletes/practitioners could be a useful strategy to improve specific strength, endurance, and anaerobic capacity while maintaining overall body composition. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Trends in Precision Medicine)

9 pages, 261 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impaired Human Sexual and Erectile Function Affecting Semen Quality, in Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Pilot Study

by Konstantina Kyrkou, Emmanouil Alevrakis, Katerina Baou, Manos Alchanatis, Cornelia Poulopoulou, Christos Kanopoulos, Emmanouil Vagiakis and Dimitris Dikeos

J. Pers. Med. 2022, 12(6), 980; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm12060980 - 16 Jun 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3155

Abstract

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a rising problem, with important implications for public health. Recent evidence has revealed a link between OSA and reduced male fertility. We investigated the association between OSA and sexual and erectile function, as well as semen quality, and [...] Read more.

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a rising problem, with important implications for public health. Recent evidence has revealed a link between OSA and reduced male fertility. We investigated the association between OSA and sexual and erectile function, as well as semen quality, and the effect of treatment by continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). A total of 41 male subjects, who underwent polysomnography for suspected OSA, participated in the study. Erectile and sexual function were assessed with the 15-item International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-15) questionnaire, blood samples, and sperm analysis. OSA patients after the initiation of CPAP treatment were followed for a period of 1 year. Thirty-two patients were diagnosed with OSA, and nine subjects without OSA were used as a control group. OSA patients demonstrated significantly impaired erectile function, reduced testosterone levels, and lower semen quality. Multivariable regression analysis showed that BMI and IIEF score were independent determinants of AHI. Sexual function improved after a year of CPAP therapy in OSA patients. This study provides further evidence regarding the association between OSA and erectile function impairment, as well as semen quality. Longitudinal adherence to CPAP treatment has a beneficial effect on erectile function. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Trends in Precision Medicine)

15 pages, 3960 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Skeletal and Dental Morphological Characteristics of the Maxillary in Patients with Impacted Canines Using Cone Beam Computed Tomography: A Retrospective Clinical Study

by María Elena Montes-Díaz, Alicia Martínez-González, Riánsares Arriazu-Navarro, Alfonso Alvarado-Lorenzo, Nuria Esther Gallardo-López and Ricardo Ortega-Aranegui

J. Pers. Med. 2022, 12(1), 96; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm12010096 - 12 Jan 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2837

Abstract

The aim of this study is to analyze the skeletal and dentoalveolar morphological characteristics of the maxillary in subjects with a unilateral palatally impacted canine using Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT). A retrospective clinical study was conducted of 100 adult patients divided into [...] Read more.

The aim of this study is to analyze the skeletal and dentoalveolar morphological characteristics of the maxillary in subjects with a unilateral palatally impacted canine using Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT). A retrospective clinical study was conducted of 100 adult patients divided into two groups: one consisting of patients with a unilaterally palatally impacted maxillary canine (GI), with the subgroups in the right and left hemiarches (GI-R and GI-L), and the second, without impacted canine, as the control group (CG). The CBCT measured skeletal variables (maxillary basal width and alveolar crest height) and dentoalveolar variables (inclination of the upper incisor, tooth lengths of incisors and canines, arch length, tooth size and bone dental discrepancy). In skeletal variables, statistically significant differences were found in alveolar crest height (ACH) in all groups and subgroups (p < 0.01). In the dentoalveolar variables, there were differences in the angle of the upper incisor (II) and lateral incisor length (LLIL) between the GI and GC and the angle of the upper incisor (II′), arch length (AL′) and arch length-tooth size discrepancy (ATD′) among the GI subgroups (p < 0.01). There are skeletal and dentoalveolar differences in patients with unilateral palatally impacted maxillary canines, with lower angular and linear measurements compared with patients without impaction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Trends in Precision Medicine)

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9 pages, 3336 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Comparative Analysis of the Piezoelectric Ultrasonic Appliance and Trephine Bur for Apical Location: An In Vitro Study

by Esther Cáceres Madroño, Paulina Rodríguez Torres, Soraya Oussama, Álvaro Zubizarreta-Macho, María Bufalá Pérez, Jesús Mena-Álvarez, Elena Riad Deglow and Sofía Hernández Montero

J. Pers. Med. 2021, 11(10), 1034; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm11101034 - 15 Oct 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2069

Abstract

To compare and contrast the accuracy of piezoelectric ultrasonic insert (PUI) and trephine bur (TB) osteotomy site preparation techniques for apical location. (1) Material and methods: A total of 138 osteotomy site preparations were randomly distributed into one of two study groups. Group [...] Read more.

To compare and contrast the accuracy of piezoelectric ultrasonic insert (PUI) and trephine bur (TB) osteotomy site preparation techniques for apical location. (1) Material and methods: A total of 138 osteotomy site preparations were randomly distributed into one of two study groups. Group A: TB technique (n = 69) and B: PUI technique (n = 69). A preoperative cone-beam computed tomography scan and an intraoral scan were performed and uploaded to implant-planning software to plan the virtual osteotomy site preparations for apical location. Subsequently, the osteotomy site preparations were performed in the experimental models with both osteotomy site preparation techniques and a postoperative CBCT scan was performed and uploaded into the implant-planning software and matched with the virtually planned osteotomy site preparations to measure the deviation angle and horizontal deviation as captured at the coronal entry point and apical end-point between osteotomy site preparations using Student’s t-test statistical analysis. (2) Results: The paired t-test found statistically significant differences at the coronal entry-point deviations (p = 0.0104) and apical end-point deviations (p = 0.0104) between the TB and PUI study groups; however, no statistically significant differences were found in the angular deviations (p = 0.309) between the trephine bur and piezoelectric ultrasonic insert study groups. (3) Conclusions: The results showed that the TB is more accurate than the PUI for apical location. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Trends in Precision Medicine)

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11 pages, 2334 KiB

Open AccessArticle

New Trends in Precision Medicine: A Pilot Study of Pure Light Scattering Analysis as a Useful Tool for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) Diagnosis

by Domenico Rossi, David Dannhauser, Bianca Maria Nastri, Andrea Ballini, Alfonso Fiorelli, Mario Santini, Paolo Antonio Netti, Salvatore Scacco, Maria Michela Marino, Filippo Causa, Mariarosaria Boccellino and Marina Di Domenico

J. Pers. Med. 2021, 11(10), 1023; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm11101023 - 13 Oct 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2139

Abstract

Background: To date, in personalized medicine approaches, single-cell analyses such as circulating tumour cells (CTC) are able to reveal small structural cell modifications, and therefore can retrieve several biophysical cell properties, such as the cell dimension, the dimensional relationship between the nucleus and [...] Read more.

Background: To date, in personalized medicine approaches, single-cell analyses such as circulating tumour cells (CTC) are able to reveal small structural cell modifications, and therefore can retrieve several biophysical cell properties, such as the cell dimension, the dimensional relationship between the nucleus and the cytoplasm and the optical density of cellular sub-compartments. On this basis, we present in this study a new morphological measurement approach for the detection of vital CTC from pleural washing in individual non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. Materials and methods: After a diagnosis of pulmonary malignancy, pleural washing was collected from nine NSCLC patients. The collected samples were processed with a density gradient separation process. Light scattering analysis was performed on a single cell. The results of this analysis were used to obtain the cell’s biophysical pattern and, later on, as basis for Machine Learning (ML) on unknown samples. Results: Morphological single-cell analysis followed by ML show a predictive picture for an NSCLC patient, screening that it is possible to distinguish CTC from other cells. Moreover, we find that the proposed measurement approach was fast, reliable, label-free, identifying and count CTC in a biological fluid. Conclusions: Our findings demonstrate that CTC Biophysical Profile by Pure Light Scattering in NSCLC could be used as a promising diagnostic candidate in NSCLC patients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Trends in Precision Medicine)

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17 pages, 22301 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of the Computer-Aided Static Navigation Technique and Mixed Reality Technology on the Accuracy of the Orthodontic Micro-Screws Placement. An In Vitro Study

by Elena Riad Deglow, Sergio Toledano Gil, Álvaro Zubizarreta-Macho, María Bufalá Pérez, Paulina Rodríguez Torres, Georgia Tzironi, Alberto Albaladejo Martínez, Antonio López Román and Sofía Hernández Montero

J. Pers. Med. 2021, 11(10), 964; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm11100964 - 27 Sep 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3180

Abstract

To analyze the effect of a computer-aided static navigation technique and mixed reality technology on the accuracy of orthodontic micro-screw placement. Material and methods: Two hundred and seven orthodontic micro-screws were placed using either a computer-aided static navigation technique (NAV), a mixed [...] Read more.

To analyze the effect of a computer-aided static navigation technique and mixed reality technology on the accuracy of orthodontic micro-screw placement. Material and methods: Two hundred and seven orthodontic micro-screws were placed using either a computer-aided static navigation technique (NAV), a mixed reality device (MR), or a conventional freehand technique (FHT). Accuracy across different dental sectors was also analyzed. CBCT and intraoral scans were taken both prior to and following orthodontic micro-screw placement. The deviation angle and horizontal deviation were then analyzed; these measurements were taken at the coronal entry point and apical endpoint between the planned and performed orthodontic micro-screws. In addition, any complications resulting from micro-screw placement, such as spot perforations, were also analyzed across all dental sectors. Results: The statistical analysis showed significant differences between study groups with regard to the coronal entry-point (p < 0.001). The NAV study group showed statistically significant differences from the FHT (p < 0.001) and MR study groups (p < 0.001) at the apical end-point (p < 0.001), and the FHT group found significant differences from the angular deviations of the NAV (p < 0.001) and MR study groups deviations (p = 0.0011). Different dental sectors also differed significantly. (p < 0.001) Additionally, twelve root perforations were observed in the FHT group, while there were no root perforations in the NAV group. Conclusions: Computer-aided static navigation technique enable more accurate orthodontic micro-screw placement and fewer intraoperative complications when compared with the mixed reality technology and conventional freehand techniques. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Trends in Precision Medicine)

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14 pages, 3534 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Novel Digital Measurement Technique to Analyze the Palatine Suture Expansion after Palatine Rapid Maxillary Expansion Technique

by Mariano Requena Pérez, Álvaro Zubizarreta-Macho, Pedro Colino Gallardo, Alberto Albaladejo Martínez, Daniele Garcovich and Alfonso Alvarado-Lorenzo

J. Pers. Med. 2021, 11(10), 962; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm11100962 - 27 Sep 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2767

Abstract

The aim of the study was to validate a novel digital measurement method to quantify the volume of the midpalatal suture after rapid maxillary expansion (RME). Material and methods: Eight patients with maxillary skeletal transverse deficiency were submitted to palatine suture expansion using [...] Read more.

The aim of the study was to validate a novel digital measurement method to quantify the volume of the midpalatal suture after rapid maxillary expansion (RME). Material and methods: Eight patients with maxillary skeletal transverse deficiency were submitted to palatine suture expansion using the McNamara orthodontic appliance during a period of nine months. After 30 days of treatment, all patients were exposed postoperatively to a cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scan. Afterwards, the scans were uploaded into the three-dimensional orthodontic-planning software to allow the volumetric assessment of the palatine suture expansion through palatine rapid maxillary expansion using a McNamara appliance. The repeatability was analyzed by repeating twice the measures by a single operator and reproducibility was analyzed by repeating three times the measures by two operators, and Gage R&R statistical analysis was performed. Results: The expansion of the midpalatal suture by means of the rapid maxillary expansion technique, in terms of digital volume measurement, showed a repeatability value of 0.09% and between the two operators a reproducibility value of 0.00% was shown. Conclusions: The novel measurement technique demonstrated a high repeatability and reproducibility rate for volume assessment of the palatine suture expansion through palatine rapid maxillary expansion technique. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Trends in Precision Medicine)

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9 pages, 2278 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

A Novel Digital Technique for Measuring the Accuracy of an Indirect Bonding Technique Using Fixed Buccal Multibracket Appliances

by Ignacio Faus-Matoses, Clara Guinot Barona, Álvaro Zubizarreta-Macho, Vanessa Paredes-Gallardo and Vicente Faus-Matoses

J. Pers. Med. 2021, 11(9), 932; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm11090932 - 18 Sep 2021

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2579

Abstract

The aim of this study was to analyze the accuracy and predictability of the indirect bonding technique of fixed buccal multibracket appliances using a customized iterative closest point algorithm. Materials and Methods: A total of 340 fixed buccal multibracket appliances were virtually planned [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to analyze the accuracy and predictability of the indirect bonding technique of fixed buccal multibracket appliances using a customized iterative closest point algorithm. Materials and Methods: A total of 340 fixed buccal multibracket appliances were virtually planned and bonded on 34 experimental anatomically based acrylic resin models by using orthodontic templates designed and manufactured to indirectly bond the fixed buccal multibracket appliances. Afterwards, the models were submitted to a three-dimensional impression technique by an intraoral scanner, and the standard tessellation language digital files from the virtual planning and the digital impression were aligned, segmented, and realigned using morphometric software. Linear positioning deviations (mm) of the fixed buccal multibracket appliances were quantified at mesio-distal, bucco-lingual/palatal, and gingival/occlusal (vertical) planes, and angular deviations (°) were also recorded by analyzing the torque, tip, and rotation using a customized iterative closest point algorithm, the script for which allowed for an accuracy measurement procedure by comparing the tessellation network positioning of both standard tessellation language digital files. Results: The mean mesio-distal deviation was −0.065 ± 0.081 mm, the mean bucco-lingual/palatal deviation was 0.129 ± 0.06 m, the mean vertical deviation was −0.094 ± 0.147 mm, the mean torque deviation was −0.826 ± 1.721°, the mean tip deviation was −0.271 ± 0.920°, and the mean rotation deviation was −0.707 ± 0.648°. Conclusion: The indirect bonding technique provides accurate and predictable positioning of fixed buccal multibracket appliances. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Trends in Precision Medicine)

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Review

Jump to: Research, Other

17 pages, 816 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Effectiveness of Negative Pressure Therapy: Nursing Approach

by Álvaro Astasio-Picado, María Dolores Murcia Montero, Miriam López-Sánchez, Jesús Jurado-Palomo, Paula Cobos-Moreno and Beatriz Gómez-Martín

J. Pers. Med. 2022, 12(11), 1813; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm12111813 - 1 Nov 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3760

Abstract

Introduction: Complex wounds require advanced techniques for their management and care. Wound care costs are high, so healthcare professionals need to be aware of available therapies. Negative pressure therapy is a technology for which more and more data on its effectiveness in complex [...] Read more.

Introduction: Complex wounds require advanced techniques for their management and care. Wound care costs are high, so healthcare professionals need to be aware of available therapies. Negative pressure therapy is a technology for which more and more data on its effectiveness in complex wounds are being collected. Objective: The objectives of this review were to analyze if the application of negative pressure therapy in complex wounds is effective; to compare the effectiveness of negative pressure therapy with other conventional treatments, as well as its combination with other therapies; and to evaluate the quality of life of patients undergoing negative pressure therapy and collect their main characteristics. Methodology: A bibliographic review focused on articles published between November 2015 and June 2022 was carried out. The following databases were consulted: PubMed (Medline), Google Scholar, Web of Science (WOS), Scielo and Scopus. Results: The most used pressures in the studies coincide at −125 mmHg and in the range of −125 mmHg to −150 mmHg. In the pediatric population, pressure levels vary by age group. A pressure of −75 to −125 mmHg is recommended for children over 12 years of age, and −50 to −75 mmHg is recommended for children under 2 years of age. Conclusions: Negative pressure therapy stands out for its rapid rate of granulation, the prevention and effective treatment of infections, the variety and malleability of dressings, its various applications and the possibility of using it with other therapies to accelerate wound closure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Trends in Precision Medicine)

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26 pages, 803 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Intestinal Microbiota May Be a Potential Theranostic Tool for Personalized Medicine

by Marina Di Domenico, Andrea Ballini, Mariarosaria Boccellino, Salvatore Scacco, Roberto Lovero, Ioannis Alexandros Charitos and Luigi Santacroce

J. Pers. Med. 2022, 12(4), 523; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm12040523 - 24 Mar 2022

Cited by 28 | Viewed by 4094

Abstract

The human intestine is colonized by a huge number of microorganisms from the moment of birth. This set of microorganisms found throughout the human body, is called the microbiota; the microbiome indicates the totality of genes that the microbiota can express, i.e., its [...] Read more.

The human intestine is colonized by a huge number of microorganisms from the moment of birth. This set of microorganisms found throughout the human body, is called the microbiota; the microbiome indicates the totality of genes that the microbiota can express, i.e., its genetic heritage. Thus, microbiota participates in and influences the proper functioning of the organism. The microbiota is unique for each person; it differs in the types of microorganisms it contains, the number of each microorganism, and the ratio between them, but mainly it changes over time and under the influence of many factors. Therefore, the correct functioning of the human body depends not only on the expression of its genes but also on the expression of the genes of the microorganisms it coexists with. This fact makes clear the enormous interest of community science in studying the relationship of the human microbiota with human health and the incidence of disease. The microbiota is like a unique personalized “mold” for each person; it differs quantitatively and qualitatively for the microorganisms it contains together with the relationship between them, and it changes over time and under the influence of many factors. We are attempting to modulate the microbial components in the human intestinal microbiota over time to provide positive feedback on the health of the host, from intestinal diseases to cancer. These interventions to modulate the intestinal microbiota as well as to identify the relative microbiome (genetic analysis) can range from dietary (with adjuvant prebiotics or probiotics) to fecal transplantation. This article researches the recent advances in these strategies by exploring their advantages and limitations. Furthermore, we aim to understand the relationship between intestinal dysbiosis and pathologies, through the research of resident microbiota, that would allow the personalization of the therapeutic antibiotic strategy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Trends in Precision Medicine)

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21 pages, 3053 KiB

Open AccessReview

From Bench to Bedside in Precision Medicine: Diabetes Mellitus and Peri-Implantitis Clinical Indices with a Short-Term Follow-Up: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

by Mario Dioguardi, Stefania Cantore, Salvatore Scacco, Cristian Quarta, Diego Sovereto, Francesca Spirito, Mario Alovisi, Giuseppe Troiano, Riccardo Aiuto, Daniele Garcovich, Vito Crincoli, Luigi Laino, Michele Covelli, Annarita Malcangi, Lorenzo Lo Muzio, Andrea Ballini and Michele Di Cosola

J. Pers. Med. 2022, 12(2), 235; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm12020235 - 8 Feb 2022

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3115

Abstract

Background and objective: Diabetes mellitus (DM) refers to a group of metabolic disorders characterized by hyperglycemia resulting from impaired secretion or action of insulin. The high levels of glucose in the blood can negatively affect the healing processes through alterations in vascularization, [...] Read more.

Background and objective: Diabetes mellitus (DM) refers to a group of metabolic disorders characterized by hyperglycemia resulting from impaired secretion or action of insulin. The high levels of glucose in the blood can negatively affect the healing processes through alterations in vascularization, bone remodeling, and with increased susceptibility to infections. Diabetes mellitus is therefore a risk factor not only for many systemic diseases, but also for localized problems such as peri-implantitis. The objective of this systematic review was to identify a clear relationship between peri-implant inflammation indices and glycemic levels, through the investigation of prospective studies that report data on a short-term follow-up period. Our hypothesis was that peri-implant inflammatory indices may already present themselves in a statistically significant way as altered in patients with DM compared to patients without DM. Materials and methods: This review was reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA). Results: More than 992 records were identified in the PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trial electronic databases and only seven studies were included in the meta-analysis. The results of the meta-analysis report worse outcomes in patients with DM, even in the short period of six months, for peri-implatitis inflammation indices, such as Marginal bone loss (standardized (Std). mean difference (MD) 12\6 months 0.81 [0.45, 1.17]\1.82 [0.53, 3.10]), Bleeding on probing (Std. MD 12\6 months 2.84 [1.34, 4.34]\3.44 [1.41, 5.50]), Probing depth (Std. MD 12\6 months 1.14 [0.60, 1.68]\2.24 [0.66, 3.83]), and the plaque index (Std. MD 12 months 2.83 [0.09, 5.57]). Conclusion: The literature linking glycaemic control to peri-implant disease is highly heterogeneous due to lack of consistency of the definition of peri-implantitis and its clinical indicators among studies. Therefore, interpretation of finding and relevance to clinical practice should be considered on individual bases. In the era of personalized medicine, the clinician should utilize individualized information from translational researches and analyze all risk factors to provide the patient with evidence-based treatment options. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Trends in Precision Medicine)

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10 pages, 861 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

A Multi-Institutional Informed Consent Proposal as a Prevention Tool for Combined Oral Contraceptive Intake and Thrombotic Risk

by Marina Vinciguerra, Eliano Cascardi, Bruno Lamanna, Maricla Marrone, Fortunato Pititto, Enrica Macorano, Romualdo Sciorio, Giorgio Maria Baldini, Antonio Malvasi, Andrea Ballini, Gerardo Cazzato, Antonella Vimercati, Senthil Kumaran, Ettore Cicinelli, Salvatore Scacco and Miriam Dellino

J. Pers. Med. 2023, 13(4), 584; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm13040584 - 27 Mar 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2431

Abstract

Combined oral contraceptives (COC), are among the most widely used contraceptive methods in the world today. Despite the different changes in terms of estrogen/progestogen combinations and dosages, the thromboembolic risk for a woman who takes combined oral contraceptives persists to date. Methods: The [...] Read more.

Combined oral contraceptives (COC), are among the most widely used contraceptive methods in the world today. Despite the different changes in terms of estrogen/progestogen combinations and dosages, the thromboembolic risk for a woman who takes combined oral contraceptives persists to date. Methods: The review of relevant literature and international guidelines on prescription of combined oral contraceptives made it possible to create a proposal for informed consent to be used for prescribing. Results: The several sections of our consent proposal were designed according to a rationale in order to cover all the aspects presented by worldwide guidelines: how to take, adverse effects, advertisements, extra-contraceptive benefits and effects, a checklist for condition at risk of thromboembolism, the signature of the woman. Conclusions: An informed consent to standardize combined oral contraceptives prescription can improve women’s eligibility, mitigate thromboembolic risk, and assure legal protection to healthcare providers. In this systematic review in particular, we refer to the Italian medical–legal scenario, to which our group of researchers belongs. However, the model proposed was designed in the respect of main healthcare organization guidelines, and it could be easily used by any center in the world. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Trends in Precision Medicine)

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13 pages, 1156 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Temporomandibular Disorders as a Risk Factor for Suicidal Behavior: A Systematic Review

by Vittorio Dibello, Francesco Panza, Giorgio Mori, Andrea Ballini, Michele Di Cosola, Madia Lozupone, Antonio Dibello, Filippo Santarcangelo, Vincenzo Vertucci, Mario Dioguardi and Stefania Cantore

J. Pers. Med. 2022, 12(11), 1782; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm12111782 - 28 Oct 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3977

Abstract

Background: Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are a group of common musculoskeletal dysfunctions that affect the temporomandibular joint or masticatory muscles and related structures or are expressed as a clinical combination of these two factors. The etiology of TMD is multifactorial and features related to [...] Read more.

Background: Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are a group of common musculoskeletal dysfunctions that affect the temporomandibular joint or masticatory muscles and related structures or are expressed as a clinical combination of these two factors. The etiology of TMD is multifactorial and features related to anxiety, depression and mental disorders can contribute to the predisposition, onset and progression of TMD. The ability to adapt and develop coping attitudes was reduced in patients presenting with chronic pain, while suicidal behavior (suicidal ideation, suicide attempts, and suicide completion) was increased. The objective of this review was therefore to investigate suicidal behavior in relation to TMD. Methods: The review was performed according to the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Six databases (PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scopus, Ovid, and Google Scholar) were consulted through the use of keywords related to the review topic. The study is registered on PROSPERO (CRD42022320828). Results: The preliminary systematic search of the literature yielded 267 records. Excluding duplicates, 15 were considered potentially relevant and kept for title and abstract analysis. Only six articles were considered admissible reporting a single exposure factor, TMD and a single outcome, suicidal behavior, although these were evaluated through different assessment tools. We found a low association of TMD with suicidal behavior in observational studies, with estimates partly provided [prevalence ratio (PR) from 1.26 to 1.35, 95% confidence intervals (CI) from 1.15 to 1.19 (lower) and from 1.37 to 1.54 (higher); and odds ratios (OR) from 1.54 to 2.56, 95% CI from 1.014 to 1.157 (lower) and 2.051 to 6.484 (higher)], a relevant sample size (n = 44,645), but a few studies included (n = 6). Conclusions: The results of the included studies showed that the prevalence data of suicidal behavior were more present in young adults with TMD, with a controversial association with gender. Suicidal behavior was also correlated and aggravated by the intensity of pain. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Trends in Precision Medicine)

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15 pages, 2258 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Does miR-197 Represent a Valid Prognostic Biomarker in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC)? A Systematic Review and Trial Sequential Analysis

by Mario Dioguardi, Stefania Cantore, Diego Sovereto, Lucia La Femina, Francesca Spirito, Giorgia Apollonia Caloro, Marino Caroprese, Marta Maci, Salvatore Scacco, Lorenzo Lo Muzio, Michele Di Cosola, Giuseppe Troiano and Andrea Ballini

J. Pers. Med. 2022, 12(9), 1436; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm12091436 - 31 Aug 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 1685

Abstract

(1) Background: Between tumors of the head and neck region, the squamous cell variant (HNSCC) is the most common and represents one of the main neoplasms affecting humans. At the base of carcinogenesis processes, there are genetic alterations whose regulation can be influenced [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Between tumors of the head and neck region, the squamous cell variant (HNSCC) is the most common and represents one of the main neoplasms affecting humans. At the base of carcinogenesis processes, there are genetic alterations whose regulation can be influenced by changes in the expression of microRNA (miR). Consequently, despite recent studies indicating miR-197 as a potential prognostic biomarker of survival for many varieties of cancer, there are currently no systematic reviews and trial sequential/bioinformatics/meta-analysis regarding the role of miR-197 in HNSCC. Our hypothesis was that with the existing literature, it is possible to clarify whether the different expressions of miR-197 in neoplastic tissues can represent a prognostic biomarker of survival in head and neck tumors. (2) Methods: The systematic review was reported following the indications of PRISMA and by consulting six electronic databases (including one register). Moreover, this review was carried out using the Kaplan–Meier plotter database portal, and hazard ratio (HR) data were extracted. Finally, a trial sequential analysis (TSA) was conducted to test the robustness of the proposed meta-analysis. (3) Results: This search identified 1119 articles and outcomes of the meta-analysis, reporting an aggregate HR for overall survival (OS) between the highest and lowest miR-197 expression of 1.01, 95% CI: [1.00, 1.02]. (4) Conclusions: We can state that, from the literature data included in the present meta-analysis, and from the TSA and bioinformatics analysis data, miR-197 does not currently represent a valid prognostic biomarker for HNSCC, although the data provided by the Kaplan–Meier plotter suggest that miR-197 can serve as a putative biomarker in short-term (5 years) survival. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Trends in Precision Medicine)

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11 pages, 2294 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

New Translational Trends in Personalized Medicine: Autologous Peripheral Blood Stem Cells and Plasma for COVID-19 Patient

by Mario Giosuè Balzanelli, Pietro Distratis, Rita Lazzaro, Ernesto D’Ettorre, Andrea Nico, Francesco Inchingolo, Gianna Dipalma, Diego Tomassone, Emilio Maria Serlenga, Giancarlo Dalagni, Andrea Ballini, Kieu Cao Diem Nguyen and Ciro Gargiulo Isacco

J. Pers. Med. 2022, 12(1), 85; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm12010085 - 10 Jan 2022

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3288

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), still remains a severe threat. At the time of writing this paper, the second infectious wave has caused more than 280,000 deaths all over the world. Italy was one of the [...] Read more.

The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), still remains a severe threat. At the time of writing this paper, the second infectious wave has caused more than 280,000 deaths all over the world. Italy was one of the first countries involved, with more than 200,000 people reported as infected and 30,000 deaths. There are no specific treatments for COVID-19 and the vaccine still remains somehow inconclusive. The world health community is trying to define and share therapeutic protocols in early and advanced clinical stages. However, numbers remain critical with a serious disease rate of 14%, ending with sepsis, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), multiple organ failure (MOF) and vascular and thromboembolic findings. The mortality rate was estimated within 2–3%, and more than double that for individuals over 65 years old; almost one patient in three dies in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Efforts for effective solutions are underway with multiple lines of investigations, and health authorities have reported success treating infected patients with donated plasma from survivors of the illness, the proposed benefit being protective antibodies formed by the survivors. Plasma transfusion, blood and stem cells, either autologous or allograft transplantation, are not novel therapies, and in this short paper, we propose therapeutic autologous plasma and peripheral blood stem cells as a possible treatment for fulminant COVID-19 infection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Trends in Precision Medicine)

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