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Researchers from Sciensano in Brussels, Belgium, have explored the complex relationship between animal and human health outcomes in the context of climate change. They discuss how poor animal health can impact humans directly through zoonotic diseases, indirectly through changes in yields affecting nutrition and wealth, and through industry-related factors like pharmaceuticals and climate change. The study emphasizes the need for comprehensive frameworks to estimate the burden of disease and highlights the importance of considering the downstream effects of improving animal health on human well-being. Leveraging disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) for decision-making could transform approaches to animal health management if challenges are addressed and new methods are developed. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by the University libre of Bruxelles examined the impact of different hemoglobin thresholds on red blood cell transfusions in patients with acute brain injury. The study involved 850 patients across 22 countries and found that a liberal transfusion strategy led to a lower likelihood of unfavorable neurological outcomes compared to a restrictive strategy. This research, published in JAMA, provides valuable insights into the management of acute brain injury and highlights the importance of transfusion strategies in improving patient outcomes. [Extracted from the article]

The International Society of Nephrology recently held the World Congress of Nephrology 2024 in Buenos Aires, bringing together over 4,500 delegates from 121 countries to discuss advancements in global kidney care and patient outcomes. The event featured 1576 abstracts, 867 posters, and 252 speakers presenting a diverse scientific program in 30 languages using artificial intelligence. Exciting resources and initiatives were also introduced, such as the YNC Toolkit and the SharE-RR Toolkit. For more information, readers can refer to the Revista De Nefrologia Dialisis Y Trasplante journal. [Extracted from the article]

A report from the Catholic University of Louvain (UCLouvain) in Brussels, Belgium, discusses the heterogeneity of paramagnetic rim lesions (PRL) in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. The study found that long-T1 PRL, which are likely older and more destructive, were associated with higher MS disability and severity compared to short-T1 PRL. The research suggests that characterizing PRL heterogeneity could have clinical implications for MS treatment and management. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at the University libre of Bruxelles examined attitudes towards mandatory vaccination and the Covid certificate in Belgium in response to the Omicron outbreak. The research, funded by the Belgian Federal Ministry of Health, found that individuals generally preferred relaxed vaccination policies over restrictive ones, except when vaccinated with a booster dose and perceiving high risk. The study highlights the importance of considering risk perception and vaccination status when discussing the implementation of restrictive vaccination policies during pandemics. [Extracted from the article]

A recent systematic review and meta-analysis conducted by the Research Foundation-Flanders (FWO) in Belgium focused on the effectiveness of psychologically informed practice (PIP) with behavioral graded activity (BGA) in cancer patients and survivors. The study found that PIP with BGA had significant positive effects on anxiety, depression, physical activity, quality of life, and debilitating symptoms when compared to waitlist controls. However, further research is needed to determine the optimal timing and delivery of PIP + BGA in cancer rehabilitation. This research was peer-reviewed and published in the Journal of Cancer Survivorship. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) in Belgium explored the relationship between employment quality, unemployment history, and mental well-being in the United Kingdom. The research found that precarious types of employment and higher quality "protected part-time" work were associated with lower mental well-being, with notable gender differences. Past unemployment did not fully explain these associations, and no adverse effects were observed on increased psychological distress. The study emphasizes the importance of understanding employment quality as a social determinant of health and the need for gender-sensitive research in this area. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at the University libre of Bruxelles in Brussels, Belgium, focused on optimizing the detection of clinically significant prostate cancer through multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging-targeted biopsy. The research found that a perilesional biopsy template using a 10 mm margin could be a reasonable alternative to the combined method, with comparable detection rates of clinically significant prostate cancer. The study also identified three risk groups based on PI-RADS scores and PSA density, which could enhance patient selection for biopsies. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study from Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) explores the impact of altered upper limb motor behavior on breast cancer survivors, particularly in relation to pain. The research highlights the physical and psychological challenges faced by women following breast cancer treatment, emphasizing the importance of understanding motor behavior changes and their connection to pain. The study calls for further research to elucidate the mechanisms underlying these associations and to identify specific subgroups of breast cancer survivors who may be more affected. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the University libre of Bruxelles in Belgium explored the relationship between cognitive function, fatigue, anxiety, and depression symptoms in patients with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). The study found that lower Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT) scores were associated with higher disability and psychological fatigue symptoms, but not with anxiety or depression symptoms. The research highlighted the complex interplay between cognitive performance, fatigue, and neuropsychiatric symptoms in Belgian individuals with MS, emphasizing the importance of a multidimensional approach to assessing fatigue in this population. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) aimed to establish expert consensus on biopsychosocial factors associated with pediatric chronic pain. Through a modified Delphi method, 48 experts from 14 countries identified 47 factors linked to pediatric chronic pain, with physical activity, sedentary behavior, pain-related school absence, and the child's pain concept/knowledge being highly modifiable. The research highlighted the importance of identifying target outcomes for interventions to prevent and manage chronic pain in children. The study was published in the Journal of Pain and peer-reviewed. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the University libre of Bruxelles in Brussels, Belgium, focused on the formation of solid-supported artificial lipid membranes using surface-sensitive techniques like quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation monitoring (QCM-D). The research highlighted the pathways of vesicle adsorption and rupture under various experimental conditions, emphasizing the impact of lipid vesicle properties, aqueous buffer composition, and solid support characteristics on the mechanism of adsorption and rupture. The study concluded by pointing out the need for further research on properties like surface roughness and topography for biomimetic and sensing applications. For more information, readers can refer to the original article published in physica status solidi (a). [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the University libre of Bruxelles have developed a new data-driven sparse sensing framework for computed tomography of chemiluminescence, an imaging technique used to reconstruct the chemiluminescence field from images. By leveraging sparse sensing, the researchers were able to reconstruct the chemiluminescence field using only one view, compared to conventional methods that require multiple views. The methodology also showed promise in predicting the distribution of other features such as temperature and species concentrations. This research has been peer-reviewed and offers valuable insights into the field of imaging technology and information technology. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the University libre of Bruxelles in Belgium explored how neurotypical adults may experience distress when someone avoids eye contact during interactions. The research involved 80 adults, including both neurotypical and autistic individuals, who engaged in a live face-to-face paradigm. The findings suggest that neurotypicals may exhibit more stress when eye contact is avoided, while autistics did not show distress in the same situation. The study highlights the importance of considering social interaction difficulties in autism as a relational issue rather than an individual deficit. [Extracted from the article]

The article from Heart Disease Weekly discusses research conducted at Catholic University Louvain (UCLouvain) on the impact of early versus class I-triggered surgery on postoperative survival in severe aortic regurgitation. The study found that patients who underwent surgery based on early imaging triggers had better outcomes compared to those who underwent surgery based on class I triggers. The research suggests that surgery based on early triggers may lead to improved postoperative survival, especially in expert centers where aortic valve repair is feasible. The study was conducted on 1899 patients over a median follow-up of 37 months and has been peer-reviewed. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) discusses a case of a boy with KIF11-associated disorder, ADHD, and ASD. The boy did not have intellectual disability but showed delays in fine motor skills and attention deficits. The research emphasizes the importance of collaboration between ophthalmologists, pediatricians, and child psychiatrists for early detection and intervention. The study also suggests that understanding the higher prevalence of ASD and ADHD in individuals with KIF11 mutations could provide valuable insights into the genetic mechanisms underlying neurodevelopmental disorders. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) in Belgium have conducted a study on mental fatigue and its impact on cognitive performance. The study aims to investigate the role of brain neurotransmission in understanding how prolonged cognitive activity induces mental fatigue. The researchers will use a randomized cross-over design with sixteen healthy participants and will assess attention, response inhibition, and subjective indicators. The study will provide further insight into the complex relationship between the brain and fatigue. Future research plans involve exploring the connection between brain neurotransmission and physical fatigue. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report published by the Department of Mathematics highlights the importance of effective medical planning in the context of large-scale combat operations. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine from the Russian invasion presents a critical challenge, and the potential escalation of preventable morbidity and mortality underscores the need for efficient care from the point of injury to medical treatment facilities. The NATO Vigorous Warrior Live Exercise serves as a platform for experimentation and innovation in life-saving systems. The study discusses the strategic application of a computer simulator called SIMEDIS, which provides real-time insights into evolving injury patterns and helps optimize medical operations. The researchers recommend further iterations of similar methodologies for validation and information sharing across the Alliance to ensure best practice standards are met. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the University Hospital in Brussels, Belgium, explored the potential benefits of sensori-motor neurofeedback in improving inhibitory control. The study involved 53 healthy individuals who were randomly divided into two groups: one receiving neurofeedback training to enhance sensorimotor activity and the other receiving sham feedback. The results showed that the group receiving active neurofeedback demonstrated higher sensorimotor activity and improvements in inhibitory control compared to the placebo group. The researchers concluded that sensori-motor neurofeedback holds promise in cognitive rehabilitation. This research has been peer-reviewed and published in the International Journal of Clinical and Health Psychology. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) in Belgium explored the relationship between intra-articular biomarkers and peripheral and central sensitization in patients with late-stage knee osteoarthritis (KOA). The study involved 17 patients who were assessed for peripheral and central sensitization before undergoing total knee arthroplasty. The researchers found that increased levels of biomarkers associated with acute inflammation were related to peripheral sensitization, while biomarkers of cartilage degeneration and chronic inflammation were associated with central sensitization. These findings could contribute to a better understanding of the mechanisms behind KOA pain and the development of more targeted therapeutic interventions. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Universite Libre de Bruxelles explores the impact of the common-sense model of self-regulation on individuals with a genetic predisposition for breast and ovarian cancer. The study involved interviews with 15 carriers of the BRCA gene and found that mental representations of the condition developed in childhood and were influenced by emotional responses to familial experiences. The study also revealed that pre-existing beliefs about the condition were deeply ingrained and not easily challenged by medical information. These beliefs influenced emotional and behavioral experiences, leading to fear, anxiety, and a lack of hope for the future. The study suggests that negative representations of the BRCA predisposition can result in dysfunctional health behaviors. [Extracted from the article]

A report from Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) discusses the diagnosis and treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection in children. The research highlights that while most infected children do not show symptoms, the infection can lead to chronic gastritis, gastric ulceration, and even gastric cancer in the long term. The article reviews different diagnostic and treatment options, acknowledging the challenges of applying current guidelines in real-world situations. The research concludes that physicians may find it difficult to adhere to evidence-based guidelines when faced with specific clinical settings and the desire to maintain a trusting patient-physician relationship. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc in Brussels, Belgium, examined the concept of failure to rescue (FTR) in pediatric living donor liver transplantation (LDLT). The study retrospectively reviewed 500 pediatric LDLT cases performed at a single center between 1993 and 2022. The research found that the overall patient and graft survival rates were high, with 1-year and 5-year survival rates of 94.5% and 92.1% for patients, and 92.7% and 89.8% for grafts, respectively. The study suggests that this analytical method may provide valuable insights for improving the quality of care in pediatric LDLT. [Extracted from the article]

A report from the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) explores the concept of psychological capital (PsyCap) as a form of 'capital' that can explain social inequality. The researchers examine the relationship between PsyCap and social, economic, and cultural capital using data from the European Social Survey of 2012. They find positive correlations between PsyCap and indicators of economic and social capital, as well as weak correlations with indicators of cultural capital. The study suggests that integrating PsyCap into the Bourdieusian capital framework can help understand the relationship between social and individual differences in the study of social inequalities. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the Free University of Brussels explored the validity of temperament-based clinical personality types in a large sample of psychiatric inpatients. The study identified three personality types: Resilient, Undercontrolled/Dysregulated, and Overcontrolled/Inhibited. The Overcontrolled type exhibited more internalizing psychopathology, while the Undercontrolled type showed more externalizing psychopathology. The findings suggest that distinguishing subtypes based on temperament factors can inform therapeutic interventions and potentially improve outcomes for psychiatric patients. The research has been peer-reviewed and provides valuable insights into the field of mental health. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) in Belgium has explored the use of ovarian tissue oocyte-in vitro maturation (OTO-IVM) as a technique for fertility preservation in women. The researchers found that by inspecting the medium and fragmented medullar tissue during ovarian cortex preparation for cryopreservation, immature cumulus-oocyte complexes can be identified and successfully matured in vitro. This technique could provide an additional source of gametes for fertility preservation, particularly for women who need to start gonadotoxic treatment urgently or prepubertal children. The study suggests that OTO-IVM could be a valuable adjunct fertility preservation technique. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the University Hospital of Brussels in Belgium conducted a study to investigate the effects of a dietary supplement containing fermented soy on prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels, changes in prostate volume, and the development of prostate cancer in men at an increased risk of the disease. The study included 94 patients, and the results showed that 81% of the cases had a PSA response, and 25.8% experienced a decrease in International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS). The researchers concluded that prescribing a fermented soy supplement to patients with an increased risk of prostate cancer could help identify those at a higher risk of having occult prostate cancer. The study was supported by Health, Science Nutrition NV and has been peer-reviewed. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) in Belgium has found that patients with advanced melanoma who have not responded to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have a poor prognosis. The study investigated the use of trametinib and low-dose dabrafenib in these patients and found that the combination was associated with less skin toxicity compared to MEK inhibition alone. The study included 24 patients, with a confirmed objective response rate of 29.2%. The researchers also identified genetic alterations that may serve as predictive biomarkers for treatment response. Overall, the combination therapy showed promising efficacy and effective mitigation of skin toxicity in this patient population. [Extracted from the article]

The article reports on a study from the University libre of Bruxelles examining lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP) as a noninvasive biomarker for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Topics discussed include the evaluation of LBP levels in Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis patients, the correlation of LBP with C-reactive protein (CRP) and fecal calprotectin, and LBP's potential to enhance disease monitoring, particularly in cases where traditional biomarkers fall short.

A systematic review conducted by researchers at Saint Luc University Clinic in Brussels, Belgium, has found evidence supporting the benefits of telerehabilitation physical exercise for patients with lung cancer. Telerehabilitation can help overcome barriers to physical activity often faced by patients with lung cancer. The review included eight studies and found that telerehabilitation is safe and improves quality of life, muscle mass, depression, and anxiety for patients with lung cancer. It may be used as a complementary intervention to increase physical activity volume, compliance, and self-efficacy for patients who are unable to participate in hospital or community-based training programs. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from the Saint Luc University Clinic in Brussels, Belgium discusses research findings on the recovery from hypogonadism in men with prolactinoma who are treated with dopamine agonists. The study analyzed data from 97 men with prolactinoma, finding that testosterone levels recovered in a majority of patients, particularly during the first year of treatment. Factors associated with persistent hypogonadism included visual field deficit and lower testosterone levels at baseline. The researchers suggest considering testosterone replacement earlier in patients with large tumors or persistently low testosterone levels after 6 months of treatment. [Extracted from the article]

A report from the Cancer Center in Brussels, Belgium highlights the specific needs of children, adolescents, and young adults with cancer. The research emphasizes the importance of multidisciplinary care programs and collaboration between pediatric and adult oncology teams. The report also calls for the development of national precision programs for this population, including infrastructure for managing cancer gene predisposition. The goal of this plan is to improve outcomes and provide high-quality care for young cancer patients in Belgium, aligning with Europe's Beating Cancer Plan. The research has been peer-reviewed and can be accessed through the journal Archives of Public Health. [Extracted from the article]

A report from Brussels, Belgium discusses the challenges faced by childhood cancer survivors in the European Health Data Space. While innovation in cancer therapy has increased survival rates, survivors are still at risk of developing late effects. The Survivorship Passport (SurPass) is a tool that can support long-term follow-up care plans, but there are barriers to its adoption in daily clinical practice. The PanCareSurPass (PCSP) project aims to address these gaps by developing a new version of SurPass that can be linked to regional or national digital health infrastructures. The research concludes that implementing SurPass across Europe can enrich the European Electronic Health Record Exchange Format with use cases on the health and wellness of childhood cancer survivors. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the University libre of Bruxelles in Belgium explored the impact of HIV infection on the immune response to Tdap vaccination during pregnancy. The researchers found that pregnant women living with HIV had lower frequencies of memory B cells and attenuated pertussis-specific IgG levels and effector functions compared to HIV-uninfected pregnant women. Additionally, the study revealed that maternal HIV infection was associated with decreased levels of pertussis-specific IgG in cord blood, potentially increasing the risk of severe pertussis infection in HIV-exposed uninfected infants. The research was supported by various funding sources and published in the journal EBioMedicine. [Extracted from the article]

The article highlights a study from the University libre of Bruxelles investigates the safety and organ-at-risk dosimetry of Lu-177-DOTATATE peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) in patients with gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (GEP-NETs). Topics include PRRT safety, organ dosimetry, and toxicity in GEP-NET treatment.

A recent study conducted by Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) in Belgium examined the psychological factors that influence healthcare utilization in breast cancer survivors with pain. The study found that pain is a common side effect experienced by breast cancer survivors, and psychological factors play a role in pain mechanisms. The researchers analyzed various psychological factors, such as distress, catastrophizing, and perceived injustice, and their association with healthcare provider visits. The study concluded that psychological distress was the most significant factor related to healthcare utilization, while catastrophizing and perceived injustice were the most relevant factors related to visits to healthcare providers. This research highlights the complex relationship between psychological factors and healthcare utilization in breast cancer survivors with pain. [Extracted from the article]

European paediatricians need to be more aware of the risks faced by children who swallow button batteries and how to treat them, according to a study conducted by the European Academy of Paediatrics Research in Ambulatory Setting Network. The study surveyed 605 paediatricians from 41 countries and found that only 31.2% had received specific training on button battery ingestion. Additionally, only 35.7% were familiar with the advice issued by relevant medical societies. The study concluded that education for medical practitioners and raising public awareness should be strengthened to address these deficiencies. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at the Free University of Brussels in Belgium compared the effectiveness of bismuth-based quadruple therapy (BQT) and standard triple therapy (STT) in eradicating Helicobacter pylori (Hp) infection. The study found that there was no significant difference in eradication rates between the two treatments. The researchers suggest that further monitoring of resistance patterns and improved treatment adherence are necessary to optimize Hp eradication in Belgium. The study has been peer-reviewed and published in Acta Gastro Enterologica Belgica. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at the University libre of Bruxelles in Brussels, Belgium, aimed to understand the factors that contribute to variation in outcomes for patients with status epilepticus. The study analyzed data from Medicare beneficiaries admitted with status epilepticus between 2009 and 2019. The researchers found that hospital-to-hospital differences accounted for only a small percentage of the variation in outcomes, with patient characteristics, such as cardiac arrest, having a greater impact. The study suggests that interventions to improve outcomes should focus on individual or prehospital factors rather than inpatient systems. [Extracted from the article]

A report from Brussels, Belgium discusses the implications of teenage parenthood on adolescent parents, their children, and extended families. Despite a decrease in teenage pregnancy rates in Europe, the challenges associated with teenage parenthood persist. The report highlights the importance of specialized support and healthcare for teenage parents and their children, emphasizing the need for comprehensive care, proper sex education, and access to contraception to reduce unplanned teenage pregnancies. The research concludes that specialized healthcare and support are necessary to address the unique challenges faced by teenage parents and improve outcomes for both parents and children. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by investigators at Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) in Brussels, Belgium, explores the societal burden of radiation-induced small bowel toxicity in patients with rectal cancer. The research found that advancements in rectal cancer treatment have not only increased survival rates but also improved quality of life. However, these treatments can lead to gastrointestinal morbidity in many patients. The study suggests that innovative radiotherapy techniques, such as Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) and Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy - Image Guided Radiation Therapy (IMRT/IGRT), can improve quality of life and result in cost savings compared to traditional Three-Dimensional Conformal Radiation Therapy (3D-CRT). The findings highlight the importance of considering long-term cost-savings and improved quality of life when making decisions about rectal cancer treatments. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) in Belgium explored the acceptance of robot-assisted physical rehabilitation technology among therapists in Vietnam. The study found that Vietnamese therapists recognized the potential benefits of this technology and expressed a willingness to use it. They demonstrated higher levels of agreement across acceptance constructs compared to therapists in developed regions, which may be attributed to factors such as the novelty effect, cultural perceptions of robots, and the high workload of therapists in Vietnam. The study highlights the importance of considering socio-cultural factors in the adoption of technology and provides insights for enhancing the acceptance and effectiveness of robot-assisted physical rehabilitation in Vietnam. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from the Department of Medical Imaging in Brussels, Belgium discusses the use of whole-body MRI as a sensitive and radiation-free alternative for detecting and staging metastatic disease and myeloma. Traditionally, bone scintigraphy, skeletal radiographs, and CT scans have been used, but they have limitations. Whole-body MRI, along with PET/CT, is now accepted for staging and response assessment in many malignancies. The article reviews the validated indications, recent developments, growing acceptance, and future perspectives of whole-body MRI. [Extracted from the article]