Research outputs from Pure / Zinātniskās darbības rezultāti no ZDIS Pure

Kolekcijas nemainīgs URIhttp://hdl.handle.net/123456789/3714

Pārlūkot

Tagad rāda 1 - 20 no 3757

Head trauma in polytrauma patients : computed tomography imaging findings and correlation with Glasgow coma scale
(2022) Pitura, Reinis; Kāpostiņš, Armands; Petriņina, Anna; Buce-Satoba, Ieva; Krūmiņa, Gaida; Rīga Stradiņš University
Objective: The most critical period for acute polytrauma patients with head injuries is first three days after ictus. Severity of head injuries and their early secondary progress could determine fatal outcome in this patient group. The aim of our study was to determine frequency and kind of early secondary intracranial injuries CT signs developed in acute polytrauma patients and their impact on survival. Methods: A retrospective one-year study included in general 264 polytrauma patients, admitted at Riga East Clinical University hospital, Intensive care unit and primary scanned using original standardized CT polytrauma protocol. From them, 75 polytrauma patients, having acute intracranial traumatic CT signs were selected for father neuroradiologic analysis and research. In 32 patients with clinical deterioration repeated head CT scans using standardized head CT protocol were performed within the first 5 days. CT images were analysed in soft tissue and bone windows independently by two physicians: ESNR board certified neuroradiologist and radiologist-in-training, conclusions were reached by consensus. Statistical data analysis was processed using IBM SPSS Statistics. A chi-square test was used to find associations between modalities. A p-value Results: 32 patients (M=44.9 years, min=16, max=82; SD=18.5) underwent follow-up CT within 5 days after primary CT due to worsening of neurological state; 27 of them (84%) underwent head CT within the first two days. 9 patients (28%) of the study group underwent urgent operative intervention, the remaining patients received conservative treatment. Negative dynamics were found on control CT in 16 (50%) of cases, including increase size of haemorrhagic foci, their multiplicity; increase of perifocal edema volume - 11 cases; appearance of IVH in 3 cases, extension of SAH in 4 patients; increase of SDH in 2 cases and increased volume of EDH in 1 case. Secondary cerebral ischaemia was found in 3 patients, global cerebral oedema and cerebral herniation in 2 cases. Statistically, there was a tendency between SAH progression and an increase of haemorrhagic contusion volume (p=0.007). The in-hospital recovery rate in the study group was 78%, in-hospital mortality 19%. Simultaneous progression of several types of intracranial traumatic pathology correlated with higher mortality (p=0.01). Conclusions: The severity of head trauma with early progression may play a leading role of death in acute polytrauma patients. Timely repeated head CT follow-up within the first 5 days in severe acute polytrauma patients is a sensitive and highly important diagnostic tool for emergency neurosurgical planning and intensive care selection.
Legal Aspects of Organising Chaplaincy Services in the Hospitals of Republic of Latvia in the Context of Patients and Their Relatives Right to Receive Spiritual Health Care
(2021) Šāberte, Laura; Juridiskā fakultāte
The study analyses fifth paragraph of Article 3 of the Law On the Rights of Patients which states a patient and his or her relatives have the right to receive mental care which, in accordance with the laws and regulations governing the activities of chaplain services and religious organisations (Law On Religious Organisations; Cabinet Regulation No. 134 of 15 February 2011, Rules for chaplaincy service; other Cabinet Regulations which regulates the requirements to medical treatment support person professions), shall be provided by the chaplain of a medical treatment institution. The right to receive mental care is considered as a unique and specific patient right and the purpose of this right is very closely linked to the human right to freedom of thought, conscience, and religion established in such legal acts as Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms, International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, The Constitution of the Republic of Latvia. The study presents the results of analysed national legal acts, scientific literature in the field of medical law and the results of the empirical study that the author has examined in Latvian hospitals.
Crypthecodinium cohnii and Zymomonas mobilis syntrophy for production of omega 3 fatty acid
(2019-08-12) Stalidzāns, Egils; Pentjušs, Agris; Dace, Elina; Bērziņš, Kristaps; Prikule, Santa; Didrihsone, Elīna; Vanags, Juris; Kalnenieks, Uldis
One of missions of industrial biotechnology is to produce valuable products from waste. In the current study we aim to establish a bioprocess of syntrophic co-cultivation of two microorganisms (Crypthecodinium cohnii and Zymomonas mobilis) at laboratory prototype level for bioconversion of renewables (molasses, the byproduct of sugar industry, and glycerol, byproduct of biodiesel production) into valuable vegetarian (produced by microorganisms) docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) from omega 3 fatty acid family. Cells of Z.mobilis strain (respiratory-deficient mutant derivative of the wild type strain Z.mobilis ATCC 29191) will be immobilized, following the previously described procedure of calcium alginate gel encapsulation. Mathematical modelling will be used for different components and at different stages of the syntrophic process to assist its improvement. The syntrophic bioprocess will be optimized with respect to (i) the medium composition, (ii) feed rates, (iii) oxygen supply, and (iv) the amounts of added immobilized Z. mobilis cells at particular stages of the fermentation. Genome and/or central carbon metabolism scale stoichiometric modelling and optimization will be performed to increase the utilization of cheap substrates and pre-treated residuals of C.cohnii. Bioprocess dynamics with respect to growth speed of batch fermentations will be modelled to ensure optimal proportions of syntrophic organisms, taking into account Z.mobilis production and immobilization as “slave” process of C.cohnii cultivation. Within several iterative cycles the fermentation data will be used for modelling and computer simulation of the bioprocess, and at the same time, the model-predicted dynamic behaviour of the system will aid further improvement of fermentation performance.
Influence of PAI-1 gene promoter-675 (4G/5G) polymorphism on fibrinolytic activity after cardiac surgery employing cardiopulmonary bypass
(2012) Ozoliņa, Agnese; Strike, Eva; Jaunalksne, Inta; Serova, Jelena; Romanova, Tatjana; Zake, Liene Nikitina; Sabelnikovs, Olegs; Vanags, Indulis; Department of Anaesthesiology, Intensive Care and Clinical simulations
Background and Objective. The plasminogen activator inhibitor type-1 (PAI-1) gene promoter contains 675 (4G/5G) polymorphism. The aim of this study was evaluate the effect of the PAI-1 promoter-675 (4G/5G) polymorphism on the concentrations of PAI-1 and tissue plasminogen activator/PAI-1 (t-PA/PAI-1) complex and bleeding volume after on-pump cardiac surgery. Material and Methods. A total of 90 patients were included in the study at Pauls Stradins Clinical University Hospital. Seven patients were excluded due to surgical bleeding. Eighty-three patients were classified according to the PAI-1 genotype: 21 patients had the 4G/4G genotype; 42, the 4G/5G genotype; and 20, the 5G/5G genotype. Thefollowing fibrinolysis parameters were recorded: the PAI-1 level preoperatively, D-dimerlevel at 0, 6, and 24 hours after surgery, and t-PA/PAI-1 complex level 24 hours postoperatively. A postoperative bleeding volume was registered in mL 24 hours after surgery.Results. The patients with the 5G/5G genotype had significantly lower preoperative PAI-1 levels (17 [SD, 10.8] vs. 24 ng/mL [SD, 9.6], P=0.04), higher D-dimer levels at 6 hours (371 [SD, 226] vs. 232 ng/mL [SD, 185], P=0.03) and 24 hours (326 [SD, 207] vs. 209 ng/mL [SD, 160], P=0.04), and greater postoperative blood loss (568 [SD, 192] vs. 432 mL [168], P=0.02) compared with the 4G/4G carriers. There were no significant differences inthe levels of the t-PA/PAI-1 complex comparing different genotype groups. Conclusions. Thecarriers of the 5G/5G genotype showed the lower preoperative PAI-1 levels, greater chesttube blood loss, and higher D-dimer levels indicating that the 5G/5G carriers may have enhanced fibrinolysis.
Predicting Drug Loading Capacity for PLA-Amorphous Drug System Using Hansen Solubility Parameters
(2026-03) Paulausks, Artūrs; Iljičevs, Artjoms; Bernatoniene, Jurga; Pētersone, Līga; Logviss, Konstantīns; Laboratory of Finished Dosage Forms; Lead Researcher Group
Objective: In this work, we look at Hansen solubility parameters (HSPs) to predict drug miscibility with polymers, in order to create a saturated amorphous drug phase. Methods: We used the Yamamoto molecular break (Y-MB) group contribution method (GCM) and solvent experiments to establish HSPs for PLA and 12 model drugs. Drug-loaded samples were made using solvent casting (SC) and vacuum compression moulding (VCM) in incremental drug concentrations until a saturated amorphous drug load was achieved. The amorphous drug phase was confirmed by X-ray diffraction after 24 h. These amorphous samples were further analysed by HPLC to confirm drug concentration. These drug concentrations were expressed as volume concentration in PLA, and they correlate with linearised HSP distance between drug and polymer. Results: This gives a statistically significant linear correlation between drug concentration and HSPs with R2 values ranging from 0.85 to 0.93 for SC and VCM methods. Conclusions: This work entails a possible concept for novel application of HSPs to predict miscible drug–polymer pairs and to estimate amorphous saturation concentration.
Evaluation of Essential Oils as Potential Antimicrobial and Biofilm-Disrupting Agents
(2026-04) Ribačuka, Sabīna; Bankoviča, Viktorija; Skadiņš, Ingus; Department of Biology and Microbiology
The global rise in antimicrobial resistance has spurred increased interest in alternative antimicrobial agents, particularly essential oils (EOs). These oils are complex mixtures of volatile compounds that exhibit documented biological activity. This study evaluated antimicrobial and antibiofilm effects of selected EOs against clinically relevant bacterial and fungal pathogens. Antimicrobial activity against planktonic cells was assessed using disc diffusion assays with DMSO-diluted EO solutions against Escherichia coli (E.coli), Staphylococcus aureus (S.aureus), Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Candida albicans. Antibiofilm activity of E. coli and S. aureus was examined using ethanol-based EO formulations, with biofilm viability quantified by colony forming unit (CFU) enumeration. Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum) oil showed the strongest and most consistent activity, inhibiting planktonic and biofilm models. Tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia), lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus), rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis), rose (Rosa damascena), and jasmine (Jasminum officinale) oils showed significant planktonic antimicrobial effects, while jasmine oil (Jasminum officinale) demonstrated pronounced antibiofilm activity against S. aureus, including strong biofilm eradication in several replicates. In contrast, chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) and sandalwood (Santalum austocaledonicum) oils showed limited or no activity. These findings highlight differences between planktonic and biofilm responses, emphasizing the importance of incorporating biofilm models into antimicrobial evaluation. Overall, Cinnamomum verum and Jasminum officinale oils may serve as complementary antimicrobial agents, warranting further investigation.
Manual Therapy-Associated Dural Tear Causing Intracranial Hypotension Treated with an Epidural Blood Patch : A Case Report
(2026-05-17) Nemme, Niklāvs; Balodis, Arturs; Klibus, Māra; Sabeļņikovs, Oļegs; Novasa, Arina; Ošiņa, Jolanta; Šarkele, Marina; Department of Radiology; Department of Anaesthesiology, Intensive Care and Clinical simulations
Background/Objectives: Intracranial hypotension is a rare and underdiagnosed serious condition characterized by low cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pressure, often resulting from trauma to the dura mater. While manual therapy is increasingly used for musculoskeletal complaints, it is not without risk and may, in rare cases, result in complications such as dural tears. Although these complications are rare, they require early recognition and appropriate treatment to prevent further morbidity. This case report aims to highlight a rare presentation of multilevel dural defects in temporal association with manual therapy and to demonstrate the efficacy of epidural blood patch (EBP) treatment. Case Presentation: We report a case of a 46-year-old woman without chronic illness who developed worsening orthostatic headaches, weakness, and vomiting after multiple manual therapy sessions. Only after 6 months did the patient undergo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which revealed intracranial hypotension due to dural damage in the spinal dura mater at C6–T1 and T8–T10, brain sagging, and an increased risk of subdural hematoma. After excluding other causes of dural defects, EBP was performed under CT guidance at C6–C7 and T8–T9, which resulted in symptom regression. Follow-up MRI was recommended for the patient. Conclusions: This case highlights a rare but clinically significant occurrence of multilevel dural defects and intracranial hypotension in temporal association with manual therapy. This emphasizes the critical role of timely diagnosis using MRI and the clinical effectiveness of EBP as a minimally invasive procedure.
Functional Biomechanical Tests of the Foot and Ankle in Physiotherapy and Sports—Outcome Measures, Wearable Sensor Integration, and Psychometric Properties : A Systematic Review
(2026-05-18) Semjonova, Guna; Vallejo-Martínez, Rodrigo; Ceballos-Laita, Luis; Jiménez-del-Barrio, Sandra; Davidovičs, Sergejs; Davidoviča, Anna; Department of Rehabilitation
Objectives: To systematically synthesize existing evidence on functional biomechanical tests of the foot and ankle in physiotherapy and sports, focusing on their outcome measures, compatibility with wearable sensor technologies, and psychometric properties. Methods: We performed a systematic review (PRISMA-guided) of PubMed, Web of Science, PEDro, and SPORTDiscus from inception to December 2025. Eligible studies evaluated functional foot/ankle biomechanics in athletes, healthy adults, or adults with musculoskeletal foot/ankle conditions using wearable sensors (e.g., IMUs, wireless pressure insoles). Two reviewers independently screened, extracted data, and appraised methodological quality using the COSMIN Risk of Bias tool, applying property-specific ratings. Heterogeneity precluded meta-analysis; findings were narratively synthesized and tabulated. Results: Twenty full texts were reviewed; four studies (n = 83 participants) met the inclusion criteria. Wearable devices included foot- or trunk-mounted IMUs and wireless pressure insoles. Reported outcomes spanned temporal gait events and inner-stance phases, vertical ground reaction force (vGRF) and centre-of-pressure trajectories, running step rate/stride length, and jump counts in competition. Validity was most frequently assessed: foot-worn IMUs showed millisecond-level agreement with in-shoe pressure references for stance and inner-stance events; pressure insoles demonstrated acceptable agreement with force plates for vGRF/COP alongside fair-to-excellent test–retest reliability; foot- vs. shank-mounted IMUs provided strong agreement for running step rate and stride length; and competition-based jump detection using IMUs achieved high sensitivity. Across studies, reliability indices were inconsistently reported, measurement error (SEM/MDC) was sparse, and MCID was not reported. The COSMIN appraisal ranged from very good/adequate to inadequate, driven primarily by small sample sizes, nongold-standard comparators, and incomplete psychometric reporting.
Methodological Quality of Umbrella Reviews in Paediatric Dentistry : A Cross-Sectional Study
(2026-06) Gopinath, Vellore Kannan; Govindaraju, Lokhasudhan; Pulikkotil, Shaju Jacob; Narasimhan, Srinivasan; Shetty, Raghavendra M.; Faggion, Clovis M.; Dummer, Paul M.H.; Nagendrababu, Venkateshbabu; Research Professor (Tenured Professor) Group at the Faculty of Dentistry
Introduction and aims. There has been a substantial increase in the number of umbrella reviews (URs) published in dentistry. To ensure their conclusions are accurate, these URs must be assessed for methodological quality. Therefore, the present study aims to evaluate the methodological quality of URs in paediatric dentistry, and to identify predictive factors associated with their methodological quality. Method. A literature search was conducted to identify URs published in paediatric dentistry and their methodological quality assessed using an 11-item checklist. Further analysis examined the relationship between 6 predictive factors and the methodological quality scores for each UR (H-index, publication year, number of authors, JCR impact factor, a priori protocol registration, and continent of the corresponding author). Results. Twenty-six URs were included. Item 1 (including the selection criteria), Item 7 (describe the included systematic reviews), and Item 8 (use a satisfactory tool for assessing the risk of bias or methodological quality) were reported adequately in all URs. The majority (73%) of URs did not adequately report item 9 (sources of funding for the systematic reviews included in the UR) A priori protocol registration was the only significant predictor of quality. Conclusion. URs published in paediatric dentistry exhibited a range of methodological flaws. A priori protocol registration was associated with greater quality. In the future, authors intending to conduct systematic reviews should take into account the deficiencies identified in this study. Clinical Relevance. Authors who conduct URs in paediatric dentistry should consider the deficiencies identified in this study in order to improve their design, implementation and reporting and thus ensure their findings are valid.
Avacincaptad Pegol for Geographic Atrophy Secondary to Age-Related Macular Degeneration
(2026-04) GATHER2 trial investigators
Purpose Avacincaptad pegol (ACP) is a pegylated RNA aptamer that inhibits complement C5. The efficacy and safety of ACP 2 mg was investigated in GATHER2, with positive year 1 results published. Herein, 2-year results are reported. Design Phase 3, randomized, sham-controlled study ( ClinicalTrials.gov identifier, NCT04435366). Participants Patients with non–center point-involving geographic atrophy (GA). Methods Eligible patients were randomized 1:1 to receive monthly ACP 2 mg (n = 225) or sham (n = 222) for 1 year. At month 12, patients who received ACP 2 mg were randomized again 1:1 to dosing every month (EM; n = 96) or every other month (EOM; n = 93) with ACP 2 mg. Patients who had received monthly sham continued with sham (n = 203). Main Outcome Measures The safety and efficacy of ACP versus sham administration over 2 years and the effect of ACP EM or EOM dosing in year 2. Results Overall, 175 and 184 patients in the ACP and sham group completed the study at year 2, respectively. At 2 years, treatment with ACP demonstrated a continued reduction in GA growth (slope) with both ACP EM and EOM versus sham. From baseline to year 2, the mean rate of GA area growth was 4.46 mm2 (standard error [SE], 0.25 mm2) with ACP EM and 5.18 mm2 (SE, 0.17 mm2) with sham, a difference in growth of 0.724 mm2 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.133–1.315 mm2; P = 0.0165), representing a 14% difference. From baseline to year 2, the mean rate of GA area growth was 4.20 mm2 (SE, 0.25 mm2) with ACP EOM, a difference in growth of 0.976 mm2 (95% CI, 0.377–1.575 mm2; nominal P = 0.0015) versus sham, representing a 19% difference. The incidence of choroidal neovascularization (study eye) was 11.6% with ACP (all treated) versus 9.0% with sham over 2 years. No events of retinal vasculitis, ischemic optic neuropathy, or serious intraocular inflammation occurred over 2 years. Conclusions Dosing of ACP 2 mg, either EM or EOM, continued to reduce GA growth versus sham therapy over 2 years with no new safety signals compared with year 1. Financial Disclosure(s) Proprietary or commercial disclosure may be found in the Footnotes and Disclosures at the end of this article.
Knowledge and Awareness of Performance Metrics in Dental Image Analysis with Artificial Intelligence : A Cross-Sectional Survey of Researchers and Clinicians
(2026-08) Ramani, Rishi; Jones, Bree; Chaurasia, Akhilanand; Khazaei, Yeganeh; Schwärzler, Julia; Uribe, Sergio E.; Schwendicke, Falk; Tichy, Antonin; Department of general dentistry
Introduction and aim. Appropriate performance metrics are essential for evaluating machine learning (ML) algorithm performance in dental image analysis. A broad variety of performance metrics are used in dental artificial intelligence (AI) research which could cause confusion regarding model performance. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, awareness, and self-reported confidence of oral health researchers and clinicians regarding AI performance metrics. Methods. This cross-sectional, questionnaire-based survey initially recruited participants ( n = 100) from the ITU/WHO/WIPO Global Initiative on AI for Health Topic Group – Oral Health and affiliated professional global networks. An online self-administered questionnaire evaluated theoretical knowledge and applied knowledge. Participants also reported basic demographics and their confidence in using different metrics. Results. Overall performance was poor with participants achieving a mean score of 17.1% (SD: 15.2%, median: 16.7%, IQR: 16.7%) for fully correct responses. Responses to theoretical questions were rarely fully correct (range: 1%-15%; median: 5.5%). Applied scenario performance ranged from 17% to 37% correct responses (median: 29%). Participants demonstrated greater knowledge of common metrics (accuracy, specificity) but struggled with advanced measures (Intersection over Union & Dice Similarity Coefficient). Common errors included terminology confusion, familiarity bias towards accuracy, and task-metric misalignment. Conclusion. Substantial gaps exist in knowledge and awareness of both theory and practical applications of AI performance metrics amongst dental professionals and researchers. Frequent misapplication of commonly known metrics suggests overgeneralisation without consideration of task-specific requirements. Clinical Relevance. Inadequate knowledge or awareness of metric selection and interpretation may lead to the deployment of suboptimal algorithms, which can compromise diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes. Enhanced understanding of performance metrics is critical for ensuring reliable, fair, safe, and effective AI systems in clinical dentistry.
The criterion of the sufficiency of legal reasoning in decisions of the panels of the constitutional court and its significance for ensuring the effectiveness of legal protection
(2026-04-27) Neimanis, Jānis; Faculty of Social Sciences
This article examines the requirement of sufficient legal reasoning in applications to the Constitutional Court of the Republic of Latvia and its importance for effective protection of constitutional rights. It focuses on the Court's panel practice at the admissibility stage, where insufficient legal reasoning is among the most frequent grounds for refusing to initiate proceedings. Drawing on statutory requirements and recent panel decisions, the article defines legal reasoning as a coherent set of legal arguments that connects the facts of the case with the claim for constitutional review and substantiates the alleged incompatibility between a lower-ranking norm and a higher-ranking norm, especially the Constitution. The analysis shows that sufficient reasoning must follow a clear methodological sequence: identifying the content of the contested norm, clarifying the content of the higher-ranking norm, and offering a reasoned comparative assessment that demonstrates a genuine normative conflict. The article concludes that this requirement is not merely formalistic but serves procedural efficiency, disciplines applicants and strengthens the quality and credibility of constitutional adjudication.
The Criterion of Sufficient Legal Reasoning in the Decisions of the Constitutional Court’s Panels and Its Significance for Ensuring the Effectiveness of Legal Protection
(2026-04-27) Neimanis, Jānis; Faculty of Social Sciences
The article examines the criterion of “sufficient legal reasoning” applied in the decisions of the panels of the Constitutional Court of Latvia. It analyses how this requirement shapes the admissibility stage of constitutional complaints and safeguards the effectiveness of legal protection. The article outlines the key elements of adequate reasoning, its function in filtering clearly unfounded claims, and its role in ensuring that individuals receive meaningful access to constitutional review.
Fundamental rights under geopolitical pressure : The limits of restricting freedoms in democracies bordering authoritarian or totalitarian regimes
(2026-03-29) Neimanis, Jānis; Faculty of Social Sciences
The tension between national security and the protection of fundamental rights has become increasingly acute in democracies bordering authoritarian or totalitarian regimes. Governments frequently rely on the ‘geopolitical argument’ to justify restrictions on rights, such as freedom of expression, assembly or political participation. While external security threats are real, the uncritical use of geopolitics risks transforming it into a general justification for limitations that may undermine democratic governance. This article examines the permissible limits of relying on geopolitical reasoning when restricting fundamental rights. It analyses the jurisprudence of the European Court of Human Rights and selected constitutional case law, with particular attention to decisions of the Constitutional Court of the Republic of Latvia. Using doctrinal and comparative methods, the study identifies the legal standards governing such restrictions, including legality, necessity, proportionality and evidentiary substantiation. The findings show that geopolitical con-siderations may justify heightened security measures only where concrete and verifiable threats are demonstrated and where restrictions remain subject to strict judicial scrutiny. This article concludes that democratic self-defence must not rely on abstract geopolitical narratives but on principled, evidence-based reasoning. The resilience of democracy lies in its ability to respond to external pressure without compromising the rule of law and fundamental rights.
Association Between the Spheno-Occipital Synchondrosis and Mandibular Condyle Periphery Maturation in Relation to Chronological Age
(2026-05-14) Bokvalde, Zanda; Domokejeva, Elizabete; Neimane, Laura; Department of general dentistry
Background: Investigation of craniofacial growth and maturation, particularly of structures such as the spheno-occipital synchondrosis (SOS) and mandibular condyle cortication (MCC), provides valuable insight into late adolescent development. These markers may serve as valuable tools in age assessment, especially in legal and forensic contexts, where accurate determination of the 18-year threshold is critical. In addition, understanding their maturation can support more accurate assessment of skeletal development and improve clinical decision-making in growth-related dental treatments. Methods: This retrospective observational cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate the stage of SOS and MCC maturation on a group of 230 individuals aged 14–22 years. Data was acquired from the mid-sagittal and sagittal sections of CBCT images representing, respectively, the SOS and the condyles. MCC was assessed bilaterally using a three-type system (Types I–III), and SOS fusion was evaluated using a four-stage system (Stages 0–3). Statistical analysis was performed to evaluate the association and correlation between the variables. Results: The Kruskal–Wallis test showed statistically significant differences in the age distribution of right and left MCC types, as well as SOS fusion stages (p < 0.001). Statistically significant differences were found in age distributions between all four SOS fusion stages in the MCC Type II groups of both condyles in both sexes, as well as Type III groups of the right condyle in both sexes and the left condyle in females (p < 0.001). Statistically significant differences were not observed in the MCC Type I group of the right and left condyle in both sexes and in the Type III group of the left condyle in males (p > 0.05). Spearman’s correlation analysis showed that the correlation between SOS fusion stages and MCC types was positive and statistically significant both between the parameters and with chronological age between sexes (rs = 0.461–0.534, p < 0.001). Conclusions: This study revealed a statistically significant association and correlation between the maturation of the SOS, the MCC and chronological age. Simultaneous MCC Type III and SOS Stage 3 maturation was predominantly observed in individuals aged 18 years or older, although a small number of cases were identified below this threshold. SOS fusion and MCC may serve as skeletal parameters for age assessment; thus, they could be used as an adjunct method in a multifactorial age assessment procedure.
Juvenile Nasopharyngeal Angiofibroma in an Adult Patient : A Rare Presentation with Fahr Syndrome and Multiple Comorbidities—A Case Report and Literature Review
(2026-05-03) Zālīte, Sigita; Čudare, Karīna; Vērzemnieks, Kalvis; Pavlovičs, Sergejs; Kupčs, Kārlis; Vilks, Ingus; Tone, Tatjana; Briede, Inese; Balodis, Arturs; Department of Radiology; Department of Otorhinolaryngology; Department of Pathology
Background and Clinical Significance: Juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma (JNA) is a benign but locally aggressive vascular tumor, classically affecting adolescent males. Diagnosis in adulthood is exceptionally uncommon and may mimic other vascular or malignant nasopharyngeal lesions. This patient also had chronic hypocalcemia with Fahr-like intracranial calcifications secondary to long-standing postoperative hypoparathyroidism after thyroid carcinoma treatment. To our knowledge, this coexistence has not been previously reported. Case Presentation: A 34-year-old Caucasian male with papillary thyroid carcinoma treated with total thyroidectomy developed postoperative hypoparathyroidism with chronic hypocalcemia and Fahr-like intracranial calcifications. During admission for acute respiratory insufficiency due to tracheostomy dysfunction, imaging revealed a 37 × 33 × 32 mm heterogeneous, hypervascular nasopharyngeal mass extending into the right pterygopalatine fossa (PPF) with bone remodeling and focal bony dehiscence. Digital subtraction angiography demonstrated a markedly hypervascular tumor, predominantly supplied by branches of the right internal maxillary artery (via the sphenopalatine artery). Endoscopic resection was performed, and histopathology confirmed JNA. Most JNA cases occur between 7 and 19 years of age; presentations in men older than 30 years are rare and often generate diagnostic uncertainty, particularly when differentiating from nasopharyngeal carcinoma or other lesions. In adults, magnetic resonance imaging/computed tomography for assessment of local extent and angiography for vascular mapping are key to minimizing hemorrhagic risk. The concurrent endocrine disorder emphasizes the need for multidisciplinary perioperative metabolic optimization, without implying a pathophysiological link. Conclusions: This report illustrates JNA diagnosed in adulthood in a male with Fahr-like intracranial calcifications secondary to chronic hypoparathyroidism. It highlights the necessity of considering JNA in the differential diagnosis of hypervascular nasopharyngeal masses in adults, especially in patients with complex comorbidities.
State-transition and simulation-based modeling approaches for simulating the progression of dental caries : a scoping review
(2026-05-14) Teplitzky, Xenia; Gostilo, Darja; Tsilingaridis, Georgios; Hamza, Blend; Petrova, Lina; Pulikkotil, Shaju Jacob; Research Professor (Tenured Professor) Group at the Faculty of Dentistry
Dental caries is a common chronic disease in children, influenced by biological, behavioral, and environmental factors, and modeling approaches provide a structured way to simulate disease progression, evaluate preventive or therapeutic interventions, assess economic outcomes, and inform policy. Despite increasing use of decision-analytic and simulation-based frameworks in pediatric dental caries, a comprehensive overview of model types, structures, and applications is lacking. The objective of this scoping review is to identify and describe state-transition and simulation-based modeling approaches used to simulate the progression of dental caries in children, including models applied to the evaluation of preventive or therapeutic interventions and economic outcomes, and to summarize their structural characteristics, applications, and methodological features. This review includes studies of children and adolescents (birth to 18 years) from any health status or risk profile and in any geographic or clinical setting. Eligible studies described, developed, or applied state-transition or simulation-based models of dental caries progression, while studies limited to predictive, statistical, or cross-sectional approaches, as well as reviews and commentaries, were excluded. MEDLINE (PubMed) and Scopus were searched using a structured strategy, limited to English-language publications. Studies were screened and charted key model features independently by two authors. A total of 43 studies were included, most using state-transition approaches, primarily Markov cohort models and Markov microsimulations. Model structures ranged from simple caries presence to multi-state models incorporating enamel-dentin progression, ICDAS stages, or restorative pathways. These findings highlight how structural and methodological choices in caries modeling determine the scope of addressable research questions and underscore the need for standardized health-state classifications. This review was registered in the Open Science Framework, DOI 10.17605/OSF.IO/6BT7K.
The evolving landscape of RSV immunization : Current policies and practices across Europe
(2026-03-19) Franck, Zazie; Hofstraat, Sanne; Jonker, Lotte; PIPELINE National Coordinators; Zavadska, Dace
BackgroundFollowing approval of the first Maternal RSV vaccine (MV) and long-acting monoclonal RSV antibody (la-mAbs) in Europe, several countries have begun integrating the products into their infant RSV immunization programs.MethodsBased on a survey supplemented by policy documents, this paper provides a descriptive, policy-focused cross-sectional overview of RSV immunization strategies across 32 European countries.ResultsAs of September 2025, 22 countries offered programmatic RSV prophylaxis for infants. Of these, 5 use only MV, 10 use only la-mAbs and 7 countries offer both. Considerable variation was observed in programmatic approaches with respect to (gestational) age of administration, delivery pathways, eligibility criteria for mothers and infants, and reimbursement mechanisms.ConclusionsThe RSV immunization policy landscape in Europe is diverse and dynamic, presenting both challenges and opportunities for shared learning and policy development.
Dissolution-permeation approach for biopharmaceutical evaluation: a feasibility study using naproxen
(2026-05-11) Šitovs, Andrejs; Gurkina, Katarīna; Pētersone, Līga; Mohylyuk, Valentyn; Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy; Lead Researcher Group
Objective: Dissolution and/or release profile alone are insufficient to predict the in vivo absorption of poorly soluble drugs. Thus, permeation test becomes a critical component for biopharmaceutical assessment. Currently, none of the dissolution-permeation systems include the compendial dissolution, or provide large acceptor volumes, or are compatible with ex vivo membranes. Addressing the limitations of the existing dissolution-permeation testing systems, we propose the integration of the Ussing (permeability) chamber to the dissolution apparatus. Methods: The assembled dissolution-permeation system evaluated the effect of 5% and 10% soy L-a-phosphatidylcholine in dodecane (LiDo) and permeable membrane material on apparent permeability coefficients of naproxen, a BCS II class drug. Results: Naproxen release from the tablets reached approximately 100% within 30 minutes. Naproxen Papp across a 0.45 µm PVDF membrane was 0.91 ± 0.35 × 10-8 cm/s for 5% LiDo, and 0.75 ± 0.23 × 10-8 cm/s for 10% LiDo. The 0.20 µm PC membrane with 5% LiDo showed a Papp of 1.99 ± 0.57 × 10-8 cm/s. Conclusion: The proposed compendial dissolution-permeation system with an Ussing chamber allowed for the simultaneous determination of dissolution and permeability of naproxen. All Papp values obtained were approximately 100-fold lower than those reported in the literature. The results may have been influenced by the differences in sink conditions and permeable membrane composition. The use of a PC membrane resulted in higher permeability, compared to the PVDF membrane. Adequately improved, this methodology could be transferred for the ex vivo membrane dissolution-permeability testing.
Acetic Acid Stress Hampers Kluyveromyces marxianus Growth on Lactose
(2026-05-09) Martynova, Jekaterina; Rozenšteina, Kristiāna; Liepins, Janis; Kokina, Agnese; Vigants, Armands; Faculty of Medicine
Kluyveromyces marxianus is a non-conventional yeast capable of efficiently metabolizing lactose, but acetate can inhibit its growth. Because K. marxianus strains differ physiologically, their tolerance to acetate also varies. Acetate tolerance was investigated in four K. marxianus strains grown on glucose, lactose, and an equimolar mixture of glucose and galactose. The inhibitory effect of 40 mM acetate on growth was evaluated at pH 4.5–6.0 by using acetate and citrate buffer systems. In lactose-containing media at pH 4.5, the strongest inhibition was observed in strain NCYC 2791, whose specific growth rate decreased from 0.51 ± 0.01 h−1 to 0.13 ± 0.01 h−1, while lag-phase duration increased from 10.11 ± 0.35 h to 21.09 ± 1.95 h. In contrast, DSM 5422 showed a smaller decrease in specific growth rate, from 0.54 ± 0.03 h−1 to 0.31 ± 0.06 h−1. NCYC 2791 also reached only OD600 = 0.18 after 45 h in acetate-containing lactose media, whereas the other three strains reached approximately OD600 = 0.6. The distribution of cytosolic and non-cytosolic β-galactosidase activity differed among strains, with the highest proportion of cytosolic activity in NCYC 2791 (80% of total activity). A significant positive correlation was found between the proportion of cytosolic β-galactosidase and the degree of growth inhibition by acetate at pH 4.5 (Pearson r = 0.9967, p = 0.0033). These findings suggest that strain-dependent β galactosidase localization may be related to acetate tolerance, although this association should be interpreted cautiously because localization was not measured under acetate stress conditions.

Pārlūkot

Nesenie iesniegumi