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A new report discusses research conducted at the University of Bari 'Aldo Moro' in Italy on the treatment of oral ulcers in Behçet's disease (BD). The study compared the effectiveness and safety of TNF inhibitors (TNFis) and apremilast in controlling oral ulcers in BD patients. The study found that both treatments significantly reduced oral ulcers, with apremilast having a notable effect in reducing the use of corticosteroids. TNFis were more effective in addressing articular involvement, while apremilast had a higher discontinuation rate due to gastrointestinal side effects. The research suggests that treatment selection should consider individual disease severity and clinical features for personalized management strategies. [Extracted from the article]

A report from the University Teaching Hospital in Bari, Italy, discusses the clinical and virological characteristics of enterovirus (EV) infections in children hospitalized with acute respiratory infection in Southern Italy. Between July 2022 and August 2023, 173 EV infections were identified, with case numbers peaking at various times during this period. The study found that a new variant of echovirus 11 (E11) was identified in children in Southern Italy, although the cases were mild. The researchers suggest that further surveillance is needed to better understand the clinical impact of EV infections and develop preventive strategies. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Bari 'Aldo Moro' in Italy explores the use of CAD/CAM technology in bone reconstruction for head and neck surgical oncology. The study highlights that bone defects resulting from tumor resections can lead to functional and aesthetic issues. The researchers suggest that CAD/CAM technology, which includes virtual planning software and 3D printing of plates and prostheses, has shown promising results in terms of accuracy, precision, and predictability. However, the technology still faces challenges such as high costs and limited adaptability. The study recommends the use of CAD/CAM technology for reconstructing mandibular or maxillary defects and secondary bone reconstructions. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the University of Bari 'Aldo Moro' in Italy have developed a new method for delivering brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) to the brain using microfluidic-based nanoscale drug delivery systems. BDNF is important for healing brain injuries, and this new formulation of BDNF-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (BDNF-SLNs) showed promising results in terms of size, stability, and permeability. The researchers found that BDNF-SLNs were more effective in reducing neuroinflammation compared to plain BDNF. This study highlights the potential of microfluidic-based drug delivery systems for the treatment of brain injuries. [Extracted from the article]

A report from the University of Bari in Italy discusses the use of polydopamine-modified liposomes in cancer gene therapy. Polydopamine is a polymer with unique properties that make it suitable for biomedical applications. Liposomes, on the other hand, are biomimetic nanocarriers commonly used in drug delivery. By combining the properties of polydopamine and liposomes, researchers have developed multifunctional nanocarriers with enhanced stability, biocompatibility, and functionality. These hybrid liposome/PDA systems have potential applications in targeted drug delivery and cancer therapy. The report also highlights the synthetic strategies for preparing PDA-modified liposomes and suggests future prospects for their use. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted in Bari, Italy, examined the occurrence of drug-induced sarcoidosis-like reactions (DISR) in patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC) who were treated with immune-based combinations. The researchers retrospectively reviewed the data of 83 mRCC patients and found that two cases (2.4%) of DISR were identified. These cases presented with enlarged mediastinal lymph nodes that mimicked disease progression, but biopsy results confirmed the presence of DISR. The study highlights the importance of recognizing DISR as it can be mistaken for disease progression in patients receiving immunotherapy. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted in Bari, Italy compared the frequency of left atrial or left atrial appendage thrombosis (LAT) detected by transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) before cardiac ablation (CA) or cardioversion (CV) in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) who were treated with direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) or vitamin K antagonists (VKAs). The study found that the overall prevalence of LAT was smaller in patients treated with DOACs compared to VKAs. This suggests that DOACs may be more effective in preventing AF-related left atrial thrombotic formation. Further research is needed to better understand the differences between these two classes of anticoagulant drugs. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers from the Polytechnic University of Bari in Italy explores the use of telemedicine to improve care pathways for chronic patients. The study emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach that includes not only advanced telemedicine technologies, but also improvements in organizational processes, clinical models, and interactions between healthcare providers. The researchers propose a novel methodological framework called TALIsMAn, which integrates telemedicine services with business process management and digitalization of care pathways. The goal is to create a sustainable and scalable IT system that can enhance the care of chronic patients. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Bari 'Aldo Moro' in Italy compared the efficacy and safety of the drug iGlarLixi with or without sodium glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) in people with type 2 diabetes (T2D). The study found that iGlarLixi provided similar improvements in glycemic control without an increased risk of hypoglycemia, regardless of whether it was used in combination with SGLT2is or not. The findings suggest that iGlarLixi may be a viable treatment option for individuals with T2D at high risk of cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, and/or heart failure. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers from the University of Bari in Italy evaluated the use of a lab-on-chip real-time PCR system for the diagnosis of leishmania infantum infection in dogs. Leishmaniasis is a vector-borne disease that affects humans and other mammals, with L. infantum being the main agent of canine leishmaniasis. The study found that the lab-on-chip system showed a higher sensitivity in detecting L. infantum DNA in biological samples compared to traditional PCR methods. This research suggests that the lab-on-chip system could be a reliable tool for point-of-care diagnosis of canine leishmaniasis. [Extracted from the article]

A report from the University Teaching Hospital in Bari, Italy discusses the clinical and virological characteristics of enterovirus (EV) infections in children hospitalized with acute respiratory infection in Southern Italy. The study found that a new variant of echovirus 11 (E11) infection is a major health concern in neonates. The research identified different genotypes of enteroviruses, including coxsackievirus A2, coxsackievirus B5, echovirus E11, and EV-D68. Although the cases were mild, the data suggest that transmission routes and host factors are likely to be main drivers for the development of potentially severe diseases. The researchers recommend systematic epidemiological/molecular surveillance to better understand the clinical impact of EV infections and develop preventive strategies. [Extracted from the article]

A report from the University of Bari Aldo Moro in Italy suggests that the Italian food environment may offer protection against hyper-palatable foods. The study compared the prevalence and hyper-palatability of similar foods in Italy and the United States, finding that less than one third of foods in the Italian food system were hyper-palatable, while US hyper-palatable items had higher fat, sugar, and sodium content. Italian hyper-palatable items, on the other hand, had higher fiber and protein. The research concludes that HPF products in Italy have lower palatability-related nutrients and higher satiety-promoting nutrients. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the University of Bari Medical School in Italy examined the psychological status and quality of life of patients on the heart transplant waiting list. The study found that one third of the patients experienced overall mental distress, with symptoms of somatization, anxiety, and depression being frequently observed. Additionally, the majority of the patients reported low levels of perceived physical health status. The research concludes that heart transplant candidates often experience mental distress and have a low quality of life related to their physical health. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the University of Bari 'Aldo Moro' in Italy have conducted a study on the use of polydopamine (PDA) coating as an alternative to PEGylation for stabilizing liposomes, which are nanocarriers used in biomedical applications. PEGylation is currently the most common method for stabilization, but it can have side effects. The researchers found that PDA-coated liposomes exhibited similar behavior to PEG-coated liposomes in biological fluids, suggesting that PDA coating could be a viable alternative. The study was supported by financial grants from the European Union and the Italian government. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the University of Bari 'Aldo Moro' in Italy have reported new findings on the potential impact of the oral-gut-estrobolome axis on oral cancer. The estrobolome, a subset of bacterial species involved in the metabolism of conjugated estrogens, may play a role in the development of oral cancer. The activation of the estrobolome is influenced by oral and gut microbiota, and high estrogen levels in saliva can increase the risk of oral cancer. This pilot hypothesis suggests a need for further research on the relationship between oral dysbiosis, alterations of the gut estrobolome, and hormone-dependent cancers. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Bari 'Aldo Moro' in Italy has explored the use of explainable machine learning radiomics models for classifying primary progressive aphasia (PPA). PPA is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by linguistic impairment, with two main clinical subtypes: semantic (svPPA) and non-fluent/agrammatic (nfvPPA) variants. The study utilized white matter texture analysis on T1-weighted images to train a tree-based algorithm, achieving high accuracy in distinguishing svPPA patients from controls and from nfvPPA patients. The research highlights the potential of radiomics features and an explainable machine learning approach in assessing PPA. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the University of Bari in Italy explores the potential health benefits of cynara scolymus, a type of artichoke. The study suggests that cynara scolymus, which is rich in bioactive compounds, may have various health-promoting properties. These include anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, liver-protective, bile-expelling, antimicrobial, and lipid-lowering effects. The high concentration of polyphenols in cynara scolymus gives it antioxidant activity, which can help neutralize free radicals and reduce the risk of developing conditions such as cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. The study concludes by discussing the nutritional profiles and potential therapeutic effects of cynara scolymus. [Extracted from the article]

A report from Aldo Moro University in Bari, Italy discusses the complex and bidirectional relationship between cardiomyopathies (CMPs) and psychiatric disorders. The research suggests that CMPs may increase the risk of psychiatric disorders due to the psychological stress, physical limitations, social isolation, or poor prognosis associated with the underlying disease. On the other hand, psychiatric disorders can also contribute to the development or worsening of CMPs due to the behavioral, neuroendocrine, inflammatory, or pharmacological effects of mental illness or its treatment. The report provides an overview of the current evidence on the interconnection between CMPs and psychiatric disorders, including epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical implications, and management strategies. [Extracted from the article]

A report from the University of Bari Aldo Moro in Italy discusses the issue of dissimulation in forensic psychological and psychiatric evaluations. The researchers aimed to determine if there were significant differences in the scores of the Millon Clinical Multiaxial Inventory-III (MCMI-III) scales between dissimulators and non-dissimulators. The study found that dissimulators had higher scores in the Desirability, Histrionic, Narcissistic, and Compulsive scales of the MCMI-III. The researchers concluded that dissimulation can occur in forensic settings and that the MCMI-III can be a useful tool for assessing dissimulation in forensic psychiatry and psychology. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted in Bari, Italy examined the impact of choroid plexus size on the prenatal diagnosis of normal and abnormal closure of the fourth ventricle in fetuses. The study included two groups of patients from fetal medicine referral centers. The researchers found that separate visualization of the choroid plexus and cerebellar vermis is crucial for accurately diagnosing the causes of an open fourth ventricle. The findings highlight the importance of this visualization in improving the accuracy of anomaly scans and their clinical implications. [Extracted from the article]

A report from the University of Bari A. Moro in Italy discusses the increased risk of nephrolithiasis (kidney stones) in children with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency. The study involved 52 children with CAH and found that the incidence of nephrolithiasis was 17.3% at the beginning of the study and decreased over time. The researchers suggest that regular screening of kidney ultrasounds may be indicated for these patients. Further research is needed to understand the causes and risk factors for this condition. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the Polytechnic University of Bari in Italy have published a review on the miniaturization of interferometric optical gyroscopes. Gyroscopes are inertial sensors used in various applications, and there is a growing interest in miniaturized gyroscopes for integration in small devices. The review examines the scientific and research and development activity in this area, focusing on recent results, perspectives, and physical limitations. The researchers compare the technology with other competitive technologies and highlight their strengths and limitations. The study was supported by the National Science and Technology Council of Taiwan and has been peer-reviewed. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at the University of Bari in Italy has found that high concentrations of urinary calcium can counteract the action of vasopressin, a hormone involved in water regulation in the body. This counteraction occurs through the activation of the Calcium-Sensing Receptor (CaSR) in the collecting duct cells of the kidney, which impairs the trafficking of aquaporin-2 (AQP2), a protein involved in water reabsorption. The study also found that mice with a genetic mutation mimicking a condition called autosomal dominant hypocalcaemia displayed decreased levels of AQP2 and increased levels of AQP2 phosphorylation, which leads to its degradation. Treatment with a CaSR antagonist was able to reverse these effects. These findings provide evidence for the role of CaSR in impairing the response to vasopressin and reducing AQP2 abundance. [Extracted from the article]

A report from the University of Bari Aldo Moro in Italy highlights the limitations of current approaches to combating obesity. The study suggests that lifestyle modifications and weight loss therapies have had limited success in the long term. The pharmaceutical industry is investing in anti-obesity drugs, but these come with high costs and potential adverse effects. The researchers argue that individual responsibility alone cannot address the complex factors driving obesity, such as unsustainable food production, marketing, environmental pollution, and climate change. They emphasize the need for effective primary prevention measures, including changes in food production and marketing, and reduced release of toxic chemicals into the environment. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at the University of Bari 'Aldo Moro' in Italy investigated the effects of two different anti-VEGF drugs on choroidal morphology in patients with exudative age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The study included 73 treatment-naive eyes and compared the effects of intravitreal aflibercept and brolucizumab. The results showed that both drugs led to a reduction in sub-foveal choroidal thickness, but only brolucizumab had a significant impact on choroidal remodeling. The study suggests that brolucizumab may be more effective in modifying choroidal morphology in patients with type 1 neovascular AMD compared to aflibercept. [Extracted from the article]

A report from the University of Bari Aldo Moro in Italy discusses the presence of parasites in raccoons in Germany. The study found that while no larvae of the Trichinella parasite were found, there were instances of Spirocerca lupi and an unidentified Trichinella-like nematode in the examined samples. The presence of these parasites in raccoons raises concerns about potential transmission to humans and other animals. This study is the largest investigation of muscular parasites in raccoons in Europe and highlights the need for further research on this invasive species. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at the University of Bari 'Aldo Moro' in Italy has found that telemedicine and remote monitoring devices, such as implantable loop recorders (ILR), are effective tools for assessing the risk of sudden cardiac death in patients with Brugada syndrome. The researchers reported a case of an asymptomatic 18-year-old boy with Brugada syndrome who had an ILR implanted with remote monitoring. A few months later, an episode of asymptomatic sustained polymorphic ventricular tachycardia was detected through remote monitoring, leading to the timely implantation of a subcutaneous cardiac implantable defibrillator. This research has been peer-reviewed and provides valuable insights into the use of telemedicine in cardiac care. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at the University of Bari 'Aldo Moro' in Italy explored the effects of various interventions on fatigue in individuals receiving dialysis for kidney failure. The study found that exercise, aromatherapy, massage, and acupressure may improve fatigue compared to placebo, standard care, or no intervention. However, the effects of pharmacological and other non-pharmacological interventions on fatigue or fatigue-related outcomes were uncertain. The researchers concluded that future high-quality studies are needed to provide more definitive evidence on interventions for fatigue in people receiving dialysis. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by the University of Bari in Italy focuses on the cardiovascular risk assessment in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The study aims to provide Italian rheumatologists with a simple and efficient method for assessing cardiovascular risk in their daily practice. The research suggests that RA patients should have their cardiovascular profile monitored using the Italian 'Progetto Cuore' chart, following the current European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) recommendations for cardiovascular risk management. The study concludes that a standardized approach to cardiovascular risk profiling can help identify patients who may benefit from intensive preventive strategies to improve their cardiovascular outcomes. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers from the University of Bari in Italy explores the sleep and circadian rhythm disruptions in behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD). The study found that patients with bvFTD experience longer sleep duration, lower sleep quality, and rest-activity rhythm alterations in the morning and early afternoon. Actigraphy, a cost-effective and accessible tool, was used to monitor changes in sleep duration in bvFTD patients. The findings suggest that these sleep disturbances may serve as early signs of neurodegeneration. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by the University of Bari Aldo Moro in Italy explored the relationship between tinnitus (the perception of sound in the absence of an external source) and cognitive functioning and psychosomatic symptoms. The study involved 62 patients with tinnitus and 62 non-tinnitus controls. The results showed that tinnitus patients exhibited higher rates of psychosomatic conditions and cognitive impairment compared to the control group. The study suggests the importance of early cognitive and psychological screening for tinnitus patients to improve their quality of life. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Pediatric Hospital Giovanni XXIII in Bari, Italy, examined the gastrointestinal complications associated with hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) in children. The study found that gastrointestinal complications are common in children with HUS, ranging from mild laboratory abnormalities to severe complications such as bowel perforation. The study also investigated the relationship between specific strains of Escherichia coli and Shiga toxin variants with hepatopancreatic involvement, but no correlation was found. The researchers concluded that hepatopancreatic involvement in HUS is frequent but usually self-limiting. [Extracted from the article]

A report from the University of Bari Aldo Moro in Italy discusses the sustainable use of wastewater in agricultural systems. The study conducted a systematic literature review of different ways to treat wastewater for agricultural purposes, such as irrigation, production of bio-based compounds, and soil amendment. The review found that wastewater recovery can be effective for the environmental sustainability of agricultural systems, and life cycle assessments (LCAs) are a valuable tool for assessing and improving sustainability. The authors believe that their findings can guide future research and inform public administrations in implementing circular bioeconomy paths based on wastewater recovery for sustainable agriculture. The research was conducted as part of the Progetto GRINS, which aims to build a dataset for the circular economy of Italian production systems. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Bari 'Aldo Moro' in Italy explores the correlation between computer science and psychology in the context of bullying and cyberbullying. The study focuses on the use of smartphone sensors and a questionnaire application to predict users' personality index. The researchers developed an Android application that collected sensor data and analyzed it using artificial intelligence algorithms. The results indicate that certain algorithms performed well in predicting bullying behavior. This research has important implications for future developments in this field. [Extracted from the article]