bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strengthening the occupational and social participation of multiple sclerosis patients - design of a multicenter, parallel-group randomized controlled trial (MSnetWork-study)
Authors: Meyer-Moock Sandra , Raths Susan , Strunk Katharina , Siebert Bernward , Hinkfoth Katrin , Weih Markus , Fleßa Steffen , Kohlmann Thomas
Published: December 2022

Background

Multiple Sclerosis is an autoimmune inflammatory disease of the central nervous system that often leads to premature incapacity for work. Therefore, the MSnetWork project implements a new form of care and pursues the goal of maintaining or even improving the state of health of MS patients and having a positive influence on their ability to work as well as their participation in social life. A network of neurologists, occupational health and rehabilitation physicians, psychologists, and social insurance suppliers provide patients with targeted services that have not previously been part of standard care. According to the patient’s needs treatment options will be identified and initiated.

Methods

The MSnetWork study is designed as a multicenter randomized controlled trial, with two parallel groups (randomization at the patient level with 1:1 allocation ratio, planned N = 950, duration of study participation 24 months). After 12 months, the patients in the control group will also receive the interventions. The primary outcome is the number of sick leave days. Secondary outcomes are health-related quality of life, physical, affective and cognitive status, fatigue, costs of incapacity to work, treatment costs, out-of-pocket costs, self-efficacy, and patient satisfaction with therapy.

Intervention effects are analyzed by a parallel-group comparison between the intervention and the control group. Furthermore, the long-term effects within the intervention group will be observed and a pre-post comparison of the control group, before and after receiving the intervention in MSnetWork, will be performed.

Discussion

Due to the multiple approaches to patient-centered, multidisciplinary MS care, MSnetWork can be considered a complex intervention. The study design and linkage of comprehensive, patient-specific primary and secondary data in an outpatient setting enable the evaluation of this complex intervention, both on a qualitative and quantitative level. The basic assumption is a positive effect on the prevention or reduction of incapacity for work as well as on the patients’ quality of life. If the project proves to be a success, MSnetWork could be adapted for the treatment of other chronic diseases with an impact on the ability to work and quality of life.

Trial registration

The trial MSnetWork has been retrospectively registered in the German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS) since 08.07.2022 with the ID DRKS00025451.
Schwannomas of the greater superficial petrosal nerve – case series, discussion of surgical techniques, and review of literature
Authors: Aftahy A. Kaywan , Groll Maximilian , Wagner Arthur , Barz Melanie , Bernhardt Denise , Combs Stephanie E. , Meyer Bernhard , Gempt Jens , Negwer Chiara
Published: December 2022

Background

Facial nerve schwannomas account for about 0.8% of all petrous mass lesions. Schwannomas of the greater superficial petrosal nerve (GSPN) are a rare subtype with few case-reports up to date.

Case presentations

A retrospective analysis of clinical outcomes, radiographic findings and postoperative complication between June 2007 and December 2020 was performed. Four cases of GSPN schwannomas were reported. The presenting symptoms were facial nerve palsy and hearing loss. Imaging studies showed a subtemporal mass on the anterosuperior aspect of the petrous bone, in one case with extraordinary petrous bone and mastoid infiltration and destruction. Three cases were removed through a subtemporal extra- or intradural approach, one case via a combined pre- and retrosigmoid approach. Improvement of facial nerve palsy occurred in one case; new hearing loss was observed in another case. Xeropthalmia was a short-term temporary deficit in three cases. Short- to mid-term follow-up of the patients has not shown any tumor recurrence.

Conclusions

GSPN schwannomas are rare entities presenting with heterogenous symptoms. Our surgical findings emphasize safe resection. Complete remission is possible by GTR. Since the small data set limits the expressiveness of statements regarding standard of care and alternative therapy options, additional data is needed.
Study protocol of Branch Atheromatous Disease-related stroke (BAD-study): a multicenter prospective cohort study
Authors: Li Shengde , Ni Jun , Fan Xiaoyuan , Yao Ming , Feng Feng , Li Dongxue , Qu Jianxun , Zhu Yicheng , Zhou Lixin , Peng Bin
Published: December 2022

Background

As a meaningful subtype of ischemic stroke in Asians, Branch atheromatous disease (BAD)-related stroke is associated with high early neurological deterioration (END) and disability, but is understudied and without recommended therapy. The mechanism of END still remains unclear. Branch atheromatous disease-related stroke study (BAD-study) therefore aims to investigate demographic, clinical and radiological features, and prognosis of BAD-related stroke in Chinese patients.

Methods/design

BAD-study is a nationwide, multicenter, consecutive, prospective, observational cohort study enrolling patients aged 18–80 years with BAD-related stroke within 72 h after symptom onset. Initial clinical data, laboratory tests, and imaging data are collected via structured case report form, and follow-ups will be performed at 7 days, 30 days, 90 days, 6 months and 12 months after enrollment. The primary outcome is the score on modified Rankin Scale at 90-day follow-up with single-blinded assessment. Secondary outcomes include END within 7 days, and National institute of health stroke scale score, Barthel index, cerebrovascular events, major bleeding complications, and all-cause mortality during 90-day follow-up. Characteristics of penetrating and parent artery will be assessed by high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging combined with other imaging techniques.

Discussion

BAD-study can provide demographic, clinical, radiological, and prognostic characteristics of BAD-related stroke, and thereby potentially figure out the vascular mechanism of early neurological deterioration and optimize therapy strategy with the aid of advanced imaging technique. Baseline data and evidence will also be generated for randomized controlled trials on BAD-related stroke in the future.
An atypical imaging characteristic of calvarial metastasis of neuroblastoma as multiple multi-loculated cystic masses with internal blood-fluid levels: a case report
Authors: Khoei Samin , Boustani Mohammad Reza , Pak Neda
Published: December 2022

Background

As the third most common malignancy of childhood, Neuroblastoma has a great propensity to metastasize to multiple organs. The most common site of metastasis is the bone and bone marrow. Concerning the central nervous system, neuroblastoma usually involves the calvarium and the external dural surface. The skull metastases may show different appearances, including: multiple lytic bone lesions, bone thickening, hair-on-end periosteal reaction, irregular suture widening and/or plaque like epidural deposits. Here we present a case of metastatic neuroblastoma, appearing as multiple multi-loculated cystic epidural masses with internal blood-fluid levels as a rare imaging manifestation of calvarial metastasis.

Case presentation

An 8-year-old boy with known history of autism, presented to the emergency department with a 3-month history of intermittent fever, malaise and myalgia and headache along with significant weight loss. Laboratory examination revealed elevated ESR and CRP and anemia. On Abdomino-Pelvic imaging a well-defined, 45*30*24 mm, solid-cystic mass was observed, replacing the normal left adrenal gland. On brain MRI, multiple multi-loculated cystic, lentiform masses were observed on the external surface of cerebral hemispheric dura. Multiple fluid–fluid levels were noted in the locules in some of which the dependent fluid was hyperintense on T1w and FLAIR and hypointense on T2w sequences, compatible with blood, representing blood-fluid level. The wall and septa of the masses, enhanced after contrast administration. Associated abnormal marrow signal and aggressive type periosteal reactions were identified in the overlying bone. All of the lesions had increased uptake in MIBG scan. Bone marrow biopsy revealed small round cells, diagnostic for neuroblastoma. The patient underwent chemotherapy treatment. All calvarial/epidural metastatic lesions resolved after chemotherapy and residual adrenal tumor was resected.

Conclusion

Cystic epidural lesions, especially when associated with adjacent abnormal bone marrow signal, or periosteal reaction and containing blood-fluid level should raise the suspicion of a calvarial metastasis.
MYBL2 regulates de novo purine synthesis by transcriptionally activating IMPDH1 in hepatocellular carcinoma cells
Authors: Zhao Jun-Zhang , Wang Wei , Liu Tao , Zhang Lei , Lin De-Zheng , Yao Jia-Yin , Peng Xiang , Jin Gang , Ma Tian-Tian , Gao Jin-Bo , Huang Fang , Nie Jun , Lv Qing
Published: December 2022

Background

Metabolic reprogramming is a hallmark of cancer, alteration of nucleotide metabolism of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is not well-understood. MYBL2 regulates cell cycle progression and hepatocarcinogenesis, its role in metabolic regulation remains elusive.

Patients and methods

Copy number, mRNA and protein level of MYBL2 and IMPDH1 were analyzed in HCC, and correlated with patient survival. Chromatin Immunoprecipitation sequencing (Chip-seq) and Chromatin Immunoprecipitation quantitative polymerase chain reaction (ChIP-qPCR) were used to explore the relationship between MYBL2 and IMPDH1. Metabolomics were used to analyze how MYBL2 affected purine metabolism. The regulating effect of MYBL2 in HCC was further validated in vivo using xenograft models.

Results

The Results showed that copy-number alterations of MYBL2 occur in about 10% of human HCC. Expression of MYBL2, IMPDH1, or combination of both were significantly upregulated and associated with poor prognosis in HCC. Correlation, ChIP-seq and ChIP-qPCR analysis revealed that MYBL2 activates transcription of IMPDH1, while knock-out of MYBL2 retarded IMPDH1 expression and inhibited proliferation of HCC cells. Metabolomic analysis post knocking-out of MYBL2 demonstrated that it was essential in de novo purine synthesis, especially guanine nucleotides. In vivo analysis using xenograft tumors also revealed MYBL2 regulated purine synthesis by regulating IMPDH1, and thus, influencing tumor progression.

Conclusion

MYBL2 is a key regulator of purine synthesis and promotes HCC progression by transcriptionally activating IMPDH1, it could be a potential candidate for targeted therapy for HCC.
App-based learning for kindergarten children at home (Learning4Kids): Study protocol for cohort 2 and the school assessments
Authors: Niklas Frank , Birtwistle Efsun , Wirth Astrid , Schiele Tina , Mues Anna
Published: December 2022

Background

Children’s early literacy and mathematical competencies are very important predictors for their later success in school and their educational attainment in general. However, not all children are able to develop to their full potential and some are at risk of failing to reach sufficient competence levels. The project “App-based learning for kindergarten children at home” (Learning4Kids) is designed as a longitudinal intervention study that tests the potential impact of a computer tablet-based intervention for kindergarten children and their families before school entry. Here, the focus lies on both, potential short-term and long-term influences on children’s competencies development in kindergarten and school.

Methods/design

Learning4Kids uses a multi-method intervention approach and draws on expertise from different fields such as psychology, education, informatics, and didactics. It combines child test assessments with parental, educator, and teacher surveys and checklists, interviews as well as observations in the families to measure child competencies and their behaviour, and to assess family characteristics. The participating children and their families will be visited and assessed altogether seven times, starting in the second-last year of kindergarten until children are at the end of Grade 2. In cohort 1, 190 families participated in this project, whereas in cohort 2 another 310 families joined the Learning4Kids project. For the school assessments, standardized and curriculum-based tests will be used to assess children’s mathematical and literacy competencies. In addition, cognitive and non-cognitive child abilities will be assessed.

Discussion

Learning4Kids offers substantive advances for the scientific fields of psychology and education, and also provides implications for policy and practice in the long term. Improving young children’s learning trajectories and analysing these trajectories from kindergarten to primary school is both a social and economic imperative as it contributes to greater individual success and thus to societal prosperity.
Variations in the uptake of telemental health technologies in community and crisis mental health services during the early pandemic: a survey of mental health professionals in the UK
Authors: Rains Luke Sheridan , Dalton-Locke Christian , Landau Sabine , Needle Justin J. , Johnson Sonia
Published: December 2022

Background

One of the many challenges faced by mental health services during the COVID-19 pandemic was how to deliver care during lockdown. In community and crisis services, this often meant rapidly adopting or expanding the use of telemental health technologies, including phone and video calls. The aim of this study is to explore variations in use and report staff views of such technologies during the early stages of the pandemic. The primary analysis compared rates of use between professions, demographic groups, genders, regions, and crisis and community services.

Methods

We used data from an online survey conducted by the Mental Health Policy Research Unit in Spring 2020 regarding the impact of the pandemic on mental healthcare in the United Kingdom. We included quantitative data from all professional groups working in community or crisis services providing care to working age adults, including general and specialist services. Our outcome of interest was the percentage of clients whom clinicians primarily interacted with via videocall. We also collected demographics and professional characteristics such as the type of mental health service respondents worked in. In addition, we explored respondents’ views and experiences of telemental health as a medium for providing care.

Results

978 participants were included in the primary analysis (834 provided outcome data for community services, 193 for crisis services). In community services, virtually all staff reported stopping some or all face-to-face appointments following the onset of the pandemic, with a large majority using video or phone call appointments where possible instead. Telemental health use was higher in community than in crisis services, and amongst professionals who mainly provided psychotherapy or peer support than in other groups. There was also evidence of use being lower in regions in Northern England, Scotland, and Wales than elsewhere. There was no evidence of an association with staff gender, age, or ethnicity. Staff were generally positive about telemental health and intended to make more use of technologies following the pandemic. However, significant barriers to its use were also reported, often involving skills and available infrastructure.

Conclusions

Despite its rapid implementation, telemental health was viewed positively by clinicians who saw it as an effective alternative to face-to-face appointments in some contexts, including during the pandemic. However, adoption of the technology also has the potential to exacerbate existing or create new inequalities without effective management of training and infrastructure needs.
Design and rationale for evaluating the impact of salad bars on elementary school students’ fruit, vegetable, and energy intake: a wait list control, cluster randomized controlled trial
Authors: Bean Melanie K. , Raynor Hollie A. , Thornton Laura M. , de Jonge Lilian , Mazzeo Suzanne E.
Published: December 2022

Background

Most children do not consume the recommended amount of fruit and vegetable (FV) servings. Changing the school food environment can be a cost-efficient, effective approach to improving children’s dietary quality. There is great popular support for school salad bars as a means to increase children’s FV intake within the National School Lunch Program (NSLP), yet empirical research is limited. Further, although FV consumption can facilitate healthy weight management if these foods replace high calorie items, there is a need to enhance understanding of salad bars’ influence on children’s diet quality and energy intake within the NSLP. This is particularly important to investigate in schools in communities characterized by high poverty, as students they serve are particularly likely to rely on school meals.

Methods

This report describes the design and rationale of a federally-funded investigation that uses validated methods to evaluate school salad bars. This district plans to install salad bars into 141 elementary schools over 5-years, facilitating the conduct of a waitlist control, cluster randomized controlled trial. Specifically, 12 pairs of matched schools will be randomly selected: half receiving a salad bar (Intervention) and half serving pre-portioned FVs only, standard under the NSLP (Control). Thus, groups will have different FV presentation methods; however, all schools will operate under a policy requiring students to take at least one FV serving. Schools will be matched on Title I status and percent of racial/ethnic minoritized students. Intake will be objectively assessed at lunch in each school pair, prior to (baseline), and 4–6 weeks after salad bars are installed (post), yielding ~ 14,160 lunch observations throughout the study duration. Cafeteria sales and NSLP participation data will be obtained to determine how salad bars impact revenues. Finally, implementation factors and cafeteria personnel’s perspectives will be assessed, to identify barriers and facilitators to salad bars use and inform sustainability efforts. Proposed methods and current status of this investigation due to COVID-19 are described.

Discussion

Results will have great potential to inform school nutrition policies and programs designed to improve dietary quality and reduce obesity.

Trial registration

Retrospectively registered (10/28/22) in clinicaltrials.gov (NCT05605483).
Factors influencing physical inactivity status among chinese pregnant women: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Zhou Tianchun , Lin Yuping , Xu Feng , Ma Xiaoxia , Wang Na , Ding Yan
Published: December 2022

Background

Regular prenatal physical activity provides numerous health benefits to both mother and fetus. However, little is known about the physical activity status of pregnant women in China and whether they meet the current guidelines for prenatal physical activity. The aims of the study were to assess physical inactivity status and associated factors among pregnant women in Shanghai, China.

Methods

A cross-sectional study of 1636 pregnant women were recruited at a tertiary obstetrics and gynecology hospital in Shanghai. Maternal sociodemographic characteristics and health information were obtained using structured questionnaires or from the electronic medical records. Physical inactivity status was assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form. Factors pertinent to physical inactivity were identified by binary logistic regression and were reported with adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). All statistical analyses were performed using the SPSS software package.

Results

In total, the prevalence of physical inactivity was 47.5%. Walking was the main form of physical activity and only 2.8% of the pregnant women achieved the goal of at least 150 min of moderate-intensity physical activity weekly. Multivariate logistic regression identified a significant negative association of physical inactivity with personal monthly income (adjusted OR 0.648, 95% CI 0.505–0.831), engagement in regular exercise before pregnancy (adjusted OR 0.575, 95% CI 0.464–0.711) and in the second (adjusted OR 0.534, 95% CI 0.411–0.693) or third (adjusted OR 0.615, 95% CI 0.470–0.806) trimester of pregnancy. Women with nausea or vomiting during pregnancy were more likely to be physically inactive during pregnancy (adjusted OR 1.307, 95% CI 1.002–1.705).

Conclusion

Physical inactivity is highly prevalent among pregnant women in China. Further efforts should be taken to overcome the barriers to prenatal physical activity and to promote moderate- to vigorous-intensity activities among Chinese pregnant women.
Evaluation of preoperative calculation methods of osteotomy size in ankylosing spondylitis with thoracolumbar or lumbar kyphosis
Authors: Cheng Jie , Zhang Shuwen , Sheng Weibin
Published: December 2022

Background

To evaluate the accuracy of different preoperative calculation methods of osteotomy size in ankylosing spondylitis with thoracolumbar or lumbar kyphosis and analyze its clinical significance.

Methods

Twenty-two cases of AS patients with thoracolumbar or lumbar kyphosis, from January 2015 to December 2018, who underwent one-level SPO surgery in our hospital, were retrospectively reviewed. The sagittal parameters were measured at pre-operation and last follow up using Surgimap software, and theoretical values of sagittal parameters were calculated according to pre-operative PI. The osteotomy angles of different methods were measured using Surgimap software. Paired t test was used to for the statistical analysis.

Results

The mean follow-up time of all patients was 30.00 $$\pm$$
±
3.56 months. The osteotomy sites were located at T12 in 3 cases, L1 in 6 cases, L2 in 9 cases, and L3 in 4 cases. Compared to pre-operative sagittal parameters, post-operative PT, SS, LL, and SVA were significantly improved (P$$<$$
<
0.05). Compared to the OVA (46.57 $$\pm$$
±
2.32 $$^\circ$$

∘

), there was a significantly larger angle predicted by Surgimap method (53.80 $$\pm$$
±
9.79 $$^\circ$$

∘

), CAM-HA method (56.61 $$\pm$$
±
8.58 $$^\circ$$

∘

), and HP-HA method (60.07 $$\pm$$
±
13.58 $$^\circ$$

∘

), respectively (P$$<$$
<
0.05). But no significant difference was found between the postoperative osteotomy angle and those of SFA method (51.24 $$\pm$$
±
12.14 $$^\circ$$

∘

) and FBI method (48.08 $$\pm$$
±
12.49 $$^\circ$$

∘

) (P$$>$$
>
0.05).

Conclusion

For AS patients with thoracolumbar or lumbar kyphosis, the SFA method, FBI method, and Surgimap method can be used to predict the osteotomy angle precisely, however, considering the rationality of parameter settings and the operability, SFA method is relatively more suitable for such population.
Low incidence of pelvic sepsis following Hartmann’s procedure for rectal cancer: a retrospective multicentre study
Authors: Mariusdottir Elin , Jörgren Fredrik , Mondlane Amelia , Wikström Jens , Lydrup Marie-Louise , Buchwald Pamela
Published: December 2022

Background

Results of previous studies regarding pelvic sepsis after Hartmann’s procedure (HP) for rectal cancer have been inconsistent and few studies report the risk factors. This study aimed to investigate the incidence of pelvic sepsis after HP, identify risk factors and describe when as well as how pelvic sepsis was diagnosed and treated.

Methods

Data were collected from the Swedish Colorectal Cancer Registry on all patients undergoing HP for rectal cancer in the county of Skåne from 2007–2017. Patients diagnosed with pelvic sepsis were compared with patients without pelvic sepsis and risk factors for developing pelvic sepsis were analysed in a multivariable model.

Results

A total of 252 patients were included in the study, with 149 (59%) males, and a median age of 75 years (range 20–92). Altogether, 27 patients (11%) were diagnosed with pelvic sepsis. Risk factors for developing pelvic sepsis were neoadjuvant radiotherapy (OR 7.96, 95% CI 2.54–35.36) and BMI over 25 kg/m2 (OR 5.26, 95% CI 1.80–19.50). Median time from operation to diagnosis was 21 days (range 5–355) with 11 (40%) patients diagnosed beyond 30 days postoperatively. The majority of cases 19 (70%) were treated conservatively and none needed major surgery.

Conclusion

Pelvic sepsis occurred in 11% of patients. Neoadjuvant radiotherapy and higher BMI were significant risk factors for developing pelvic sepsis. Forty percent of patients were diagnosed later than 30 days postoperatively and most patients were successfully treated conservatively. Our findings suggest that HP is a valid treatment option for rectal cancer when anastomosis is inappropriate, even in patients receiving neoadjuvant radiotherapy.
Electrolyzed water for the microbiologic control in the pandemic dental setting: a systematic review
Authors: Cárdenas Angélica M. , Campos-Bijit Vanessa , Di Francesco Fabrizio , Schwarz Frank , Cafferata Emilio A. , Vernal Rolando
Published: December 2022

Background

Electrolyzed water has brought recent attention due to its antimicrobial properties. Indeed, electrolyzed water has been proposed to sterilize dental materials and instruments without compromising their structural integrity. In addition, electrolyzed water has been proposed as a mouthwash to control bacterial and viral oral infections without detrimental effects on the oral mucosa. However, no current consensus or evidence synthesis could indicate its potentially favorable use in the dental setting, particularly during the COVID-19 context. Therefore, this systematic review aimed to elucidate whether electrolyzed water could improve microbiologic control in the COVID-19 pandemic dental setting.

Methods

MEDLINE via Pubmed, EMBASE, Cochrane’s CENTRAL, Scopus, LILACS, and Web of Science databases were searched up to September 2021 to identify experimental studies utilizing electrolyzed water for eliminating microorganisms in a dental setting. Besides, a manual and a grey literature search were performed. The data selection and extraction were performed individually and in duplicate. The Risk of Bias (RoB) was assessed with the Nature Publication Quality Improvement Project (NPQIP) score sheet. The study protocol was registered at PROSPERO CRD42020206986.

Results

From a total of 299 articles, 63 studies met the inclusion criteria. The included studies assessed several types of electrolyzed waters, which showed a high disinfection potential when used to deal with different oral conditions. Electrolyzed water demonstrated a broad antimicrobial spectrum and was highly efficient in the dental office disinfection against viruses, fungi, and bacteria, being compatible with most dental materials. In addition, electrolyzed water could protect against SARS-CoV-2 infection and contamination in the dental office. Regarding the RoB, only 35.18% of entries were answered as ‘Yes’, thus achieving less than half of the reporting sheet.

Conclusion

Electrolyzed water effectively disinfects contaminated surfaces, dental materials, and equipment. Therefore, their use is recommendable in the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic dental setting.
Traumatic temporomandibular joint bony ankylosis in growing rats
Authors: Ma Zhen , Wang Yiming , Xue Yang , Zhang Wuyang , Li Dengke , Li Yuan , Li Guowei , Zhou Hongzhi , Hu Xiangxiang , Deng Tiange , Hu Kaijin
Published: December 2022

Background

The pathogenesis of traumatic temporomandibular joint (TMJ) bony ankylosis remains unknown. This study aimed to explore the pathogenesis of traumatic TMJ bony ankylosis in a rat model.

Methods

Twenty-four 3-week-old male Sprague–Dawley rats were used in this study. Excision of the whole disc, the fibrocartilage damage of the condyle and glenoid fossa, and narrowed joint space were performed in the left TMJ of the operation group to induce TMJ bony ankylosis (experimental side). The right TMJ underwent a sham operation (sham side). The control group did not undergo any operations. At 1, 4, and 8 weeks postoperatively, rats of the operation group were sacrificed and TMJ complexes were evaluated by gross observation, Micro-CT, histological examinations, and immunofluorescence microscopy. Total RNA of TMJ complexes in the operation group were analyzed using RNA-seq.

Results

Gross observations revealed TMJ bony ankylosis on the experimental side. Micro-CT analysis demonstrated that compared to the sham side, the experimental side showed a larger volume of growth, and a considerable calcified bone callus formation in the narrowed joint space and on the rougher articular surfaces. Histological examinations indicated that endochondral ossification was observed on the experimental side, but not on the sham side. RNA-seq analysis and immunofluorescence revealed that Matrix metallopeptidase 13 (MMP13) and Runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2) genes of endochondral ossification were significantly more downregulated on the experimental side than on the sham side. The primary pathways related to endochondral ossification were Parathyroid hormone synthesis, secretion and action, Relaxin signaling pathway, and IL-17 signaling pathway.

Conclusions

The present study provided an innovative and reliable rat model of TMJ bony ankylosis by compound trauma and narrowed joint space. Furthermore, we demonstrated the downregulation of MMP13 and RUNX2 in the process of endochondral ossification in TMJ bony ankylosis.
Are platelet concentrate scaffolds superior to traditional blood clot scaffolds in regeneration therapy of necrotic immature permanent teeth? A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Tang Qianwei , Jin Hua , Lin Song , Ma Long , Tian Tingyu , Qin Xiurong
Published: December 2022

Background

The effectiveness of platelet concentrates in promoting root development of necrotic immature permanent teeth is unclear. The present study evaluated whether the platelet concentrate protocol was superior to the traditional blood clot protocol in regeneration therapy.

Methods

We searched Electronic databases, such as PubMed, Cochrane Library, ClinicalTrials and EMBASE. Randomized controlled trial studies, cohort studies, case-control studies and cross-sectional studies were included, in which platelet-rich concentrates were tested for periapical healing and root development, with the blood clot treatment protocol as the control group. Clinical and radiographic outcomes were considered. Selected articles were assessed for risk of bias. Pooled risk ratios (risk ratio, RR) were calculated for clinical success, responses to cold and electric pulp tests, periapical lesions, apex closure, root lengthening, and thickening of the dentin walls. Subgroup meta-analysis were conducted according to the type of platelet concentrate used.

Results

Of the 1272 screened studies, 13 randomized controlled studies, 2 case-control studies and 1 cohort study were selected, in which 465 immature necrotic permanent teeth, particularly incisors and premolars, were treated. Of these 465 teeth, 457 (98.2%) in both the control and experimental groups remained clinically asymptomatic for the entire study duration, whereas eight (1.8%) showed signs and symptoms of failure, including spontaneous pain, sensitivity to percussion or reinfection. Compared with control teeth, teeth treated with PRP achieved better apical healing than BC group (RR 1.13, 95% CI 1.01–1.26,P = 0.03), and teeth treated with platelet concentrates showed improved apical closure (RR 1.04, 95% CI 0.86–1.25,P = 0.69), root lengthening (RR 1.01, 95% CI 0.74–1.39,P = 0.93), and thickening of the dentin walls (RR 1.35, 95% CI 0.95–1.93,P = 0.09), although these differences were not statistically significant.

Conclusions

Platelet concentrates can be used as successful scaffolds for regenerative endodontic treatment of necrotic immature permanent teeth, and PRP as a scaffold may achieve better periapical healing of teeth with periapical inflammation, although they did not differ significantly from conventional blood clot scaffolds in development of the root.
The incidence of radicular groove on maxillary lateral incisors of Saudi population: CBCT evaluation
Authors: Alkahtany Sarah M. , Alrwais Fatemah , Altamimi Asma , Bukhary Sundus M. , Mirdad Amani
Published: December 2022

Background

The radicular groove (RG) is one of the developmental anomalies that is commonly found in maxillary incisors. The formation of radicular groove is initiated around the cingulum and can reach the root at different levels. The incidence of radicular grooves was reported in different countries but there was no published data about the incidence of RG in Saudi Arabia. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the incidence of radicular grooves on maxillary lateral incisors in the Saudi population using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT).

Methods

The dental records of 490 patients (N = 490) with CBCT images of maxillary anterior teeth were screened for inclusion criteria. Then 264 included cases were evaluated independently by two Endodontists. The evaluation was performed on CBCT images in the axial, sagittal, and coronal sections using Planmeca Romexis® software. The following data were recorded for each patient: Patients’ age and gender, radicular groove presence or absence, and if it is bilateral or unilateral. The type of radicular groove was recorded according to Gu’s classification (type I, II, or III).

Results

The incidence rate of radicular grooves in maxillary lateral incisors was 4.9%. RG was found to be unilateral in 61.5% and bilateral in 38.5%. The majority of RG were classified as type I in 69.2%, followed by type II in 15.4%, and type III was found in 15.4%.

Conclusion

4.9% of the Saudi population has RG in the upper lateral incisor. This anatomical variation is mostly present as type I on one side only (unilateral).
General dentists’ readiness and barriers in intimate partner violence screening: a cross-sectional study in Jeddah City
Authors: Alshouibi Ehab N.
Published: December 2022

Background

Intimate partner violence (IPV) has varying prevalence rates and risk factors based on cultural, social, and economic backgrounds. However, it is common for IPV victims to be seen in dental settings on a regular basis. Identifying IPV victims in dental settings might help address this overlooked global dilemma. This study was conducted to evaluate general dentists’ readiness and potential barriers to performing IPV screening in a dental setting.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted using the Domestic Violence Healthcare Providers Survey (DVHPS). This validated and structured questionnaire was adopted, modified, and self-administered to evaluate general dentists’ readiness and barriers to IPV screening. General dentists were recruited for the study population from 5 administrative territorial regions in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The questionnaire consists of 7 domains that assess general dentists’ readiness and barriers to performing IPV screening for all dental patients.

Results

Out of the 273 dentists approached, a total of 200 participated in the study, with a total response rate of 73.3%. The percentages of female and male dentists were 54% and 46%, respectively. Almost 73% of the study population believed they could identify IPV in a dental setting. The multiple linear regression model indicated a substantial decrease in general dentists’ readiness to perform IPV screening due to fear of offending patients, an increased number of patients treated per day, and professional role resistance.

Conclusion

The current study suggests the high readiness of general dentists to perform IPV screening for all patients. However, prominent barriers to implementing IPV screening for all patients include fear of offending patients, an increased number of patients treated per day, and professional role resistance. Postgraduate continuous education is encouraged to re-enforce the importance of IPV screening in dental settings.
Fracture resistance of prefabricated versus custom-made zirconia crowns after thermo-mechanical aging: an in-vitro study
Authors: El Shahawy Osama Ibrahim , Azab Maha Moussa
Published: December 2022

Background

Prefabricated zirconia crowns for a young permanent molar is a child-friendly solution for restoring a permanent molar at a young age. This in-vitro study aimed to compare the fracture resistance of prefabricated versus custom-made permanent molar crowns.

Methods

16 identical resin dies were fabricated to receive permanent molar zirconia crowns, dies were divided into 2 groups, 1) received perfricated crowns, 2) custom-made crowns. Thermo-dynamic cycling was performed to simulate 6 months in the oral cavity, Fracture resistance of each group was assessed by applying increasing load till fracture. Data were tested for normality using Shapiro–Wilk and Levene's tests. Data were analyzed using independent t test.

Results

No statistically significant difference was found between fracture resistance of prefabricated and custom-made crowns (1793.54 ± 423.82) and (1987.38 ± 414.88) respectively. 3 crowns of the custom-made group fractured with the underlying die, versus zero dies fractured in the prefabricated group.

Conclusions

Prefabricated permanent molars zirconia crowns can perform as well as custom-made crowns for an adult in terms of fracture resistance, it is suitable for children and can withstand the occlusal forces of an adult.
Endometrial microstimulation effects on endometrial receptivity assessed by transvaginal color Doppler sonography
Authors: Cheng Fang , Xv Bao-Mei , Liu Yan-Lin , Sun Rui , Wang Lin , Yi Jin-Ling
Published: December 2022

Objective

This study investigated the effect of endometrial microstimulation (EM) on endometrial receptivity using transvaginal color Doppler sonography (TVCDS).

Method

Women of childbearing age who were preparing to conceive (n = 90) were randomly divided into the EM group (n = 30), who were examined by EM on days 3–5 of the menstrual cycle, and the control group (n = 60). TVCDS was conducted during the implantation window phase, and endometrial thickness, endometrial pattern, endometrial movement, blood flow type, and uterine and spiral arterial hemodynamic parameter measurements were made. The groups were compared to identify differences.

Results

Endometrial thickness (0.97 ± 0.18 cm and 0.95 ± 0.17 cm), endometrial movement (type 1: 46.7% and 51.7%; type 2: 30.0% and 28.3%; type 3: 6.7% and 5.0%; type 5: 16.7% and 15.0%), and hemodynamic parameters of the uterine (pulsatility index [PI]: 2.46 ± 0.50 and 2.41 ± 0.48; resistance index [RI]: 0.85 ± 0.05 and 0.84 ± 0.05) and spiral (PI: 1.11 ± 0.32 and 1.19 ± 0.33; RI: 0.48 ± 0.11 and 0.51 ± 0.08) arteries did not differ significantly between groups (P > 0.05). However, the endometrial pattern (a trilaminar pattern: 80.0% and 58.3%;P = 0.041) and blood flow type (type I: 16.7% and 43.3%; type II: 63.3% and 40.0%; type III 20.0% and 16.7%;P = 0.038) differed significantly between groups.

Conclusion

Endometrial microstimulation did not alter endometrial pathological staging, endometrial thickness, or movement, nor did it affect uterine and spiral arterial blood flow parameters. However, it may be able to abrade abnormal endometrial tissue, optimizing the endometrial pattern. Endometrial microstimulation may support local spiral artery regeneration and increase endometrial blood supply in new cycles.
Psychosocial working conditions as determinants of concerns to have made important medical errors and possible intermediate factors of this association among medical assistants – a cohort study
Authors: Mambrey Viola , Angerer Peter , Loerbroks Adrian
Published: December 2022

Objective

We sought to examine the association of psychosocial working conditions with concerns to have made important medical errors and to identify possible intermediate factors in this relationship.

Methods

We used data from 408 medical assistants (MAs) in Germany who participated in a 4-year prospective cohort study (follow-up period: 03–05/2021). Psychosocial working conditions were assessed at baseline by the effort-reward imbalance questionnaire and by a MA-specific questionnaire with seven subscales. MAs reported at follow-up whether they are concerned to have made an important medical error throughout the last 3 months, 12 months or since baseline (yes/no). These variables were merged into a single variable (any affirmative response vs. none) for primary analyses. Potential intermediate factors measured at baseline included work engagement (i.e., vigor and dedication, assessed by the UWES), work satisfaction (COPSOQ), depression (PHQ-2), anxiety (GAD-2) and self-rated health. We ran Poisson regression models with a log-link function to estimate relative risks (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Doing so, we employed the psychosocial working condition scales as continuous variables (i.e. z-scores) in the primary analyses. Potential intermediate factors were added separately to the regression models.

Results

Poor collaboration was the only working condition, which was significantly predictive of the concern of having made an important medical error (RR = 1.26, 95%CI = 1.00–1.57, p = 0.049). Partial intermediate factors in this association were vigor, depression and anxiety.

Conclusion

We found weak and mostly statistically non-significant associations. The only exception was poor collaboration whose association with concerns to have made an important medical error was partially explained by vigor and poor mental health.
Comparing mental and physical health of U.S. veterans by VA healthcare use: implications for generalizability of research in the VA electronic health records
Authors: Fink David S. , Stohl Malka , Mannes Zachary L. , Shmulewitz Dvora , Wall Melanie , Gutkind Sarah , Olfson Mark , Gradus Jaimie , Keyhani Salomeh , Maynard Charles , Keyes Katherine M. , Sherman Scott , Martins Silvia , Saxon Andrew J. , Hasin Deborah S.
Published: December 2022

Objective

The Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) electronic health records (EHR) offer a rich source of big data to study medical and health care questions, but patient eligibility and preferences may limit generalizability of findings. We therefore examined the representativeness of VA veterans by comparing veterans using VA healthcare services to those who do not.

Methods

We analyzed data on 3051 veteran participants age ≥ 18 years in the 2019 National Health Interview Survey. Weighted logistic regression was used to model participant characteristics, health conditions, pain, and self-reported health by past year VA healthcare use and generate predicted marginal prevalences, which were used to calculate Cohen’s d of group differences in absolute risk by past-year VA healthcare use.

Results

Among veterans, 30.4% had past-year VA healthcare use. Veterans with lower income and members of racial/ethnic minority groups were more likely to report past-year VA healthcare use. Health conditions overrepresented in past-year VA healthcare users included chronic medical conditions (80.6% vs. 69.4%, d = 0.36), pain (78.9% vs. 65.9%; d = 0.35), mental distress (11.6% vs. 5.9%; d = 0.47), anxiety (10.8% vs. 4.1%; d = 0.67), and fair/poor self-reported health (27.9% vs. 18.0%; d = 0.40).

Conclusions

Heterogeneity in veteran sociodemographic and health characteristics was observed by past-year VA healthcare use. Researchers working with VA EHR data should consider how the patient selection process may relate to the exposures and outcomes under study. Statistical reweighting may be needed to generalize risk estimates from the VA EHR data to the overall veteran population.
Stratification of COPD patients towards personalized medicine: reproduction and formation of clusters
Authors: van Zelst Cathelijne M. , Goossens Lucas M. A. , Witte Jan A. , Braunstahl Gert-Jan , Hendriks Rudi W. , Rutten-van Molken Maureen P. M. H. , Veen Johannes C. C. M. in’t
Published: December 2022

Background

The global initiative for chronic obstructive lung disease (GOLD) 2020 emphasizes that there is only a weak correlation between FEV1, symptoms and impairment of the health status of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Various studies aimed to identify COPD phenotypes by cluster analyses, but behavioral aspects besides smoking were rarely included.

Methods

The aims of the study were to investigate whether (i) clustering analyses are in line with the classification into GOLD ABCD groups; (ii) clustering according to Burgel et al. (Eur Respir J. 36(3):531–9, 2010) can be reproduced in a real-world COPD cohort; and (iii) addition of new behavioral variables alters the clustering outcome. Principal component and hierarchical cluster analyses were applied to real-world clinical data of COPD patients newly referred to secondary care (n = 155). We investigated if the obtained clusters paralleled GOLD ABCD subgroups and determined the impact of adding several variables, including quality of life (QOL), fatigue, satisfaction relationship, air trapping, steps per day and activities of daily living, on clustering.

Results

Using the appropriate corresponding variables, we identified clusters that largely reflected the GOLD ABCD groups, but we could not reproduce Burgel’s clinical phenotypes. Adding six new variables resulted in the formation of four new clusters that mainly differed from each other in the following parameters: number of steps per day, activities of daily living and QOL.

Conclusions

We could not reproduce previously identified clinical COPD phenotypes in an independent population of COPD patients. Our findings therefore indicate that COPD phenotypes based on cluster analysis may not be a suitable basis for treatment strategies for individual patients.
Current methods for studying metastatic potential of tumor cells
Authors: Bouchalova Pavla , Bouchal Pavel
Published: December 2022

Cell migration and invasiveness significantly contribute to desirable physiological processes, such as wound healing or embryogenesis, as well as to serious pathological processes such as the spread of cancer cells to form tumor metastasis. The availability of appropriate methods for studying these processes is essential for understanding the molecular basis of cancer metastasis and for identifying suitable therapeutic targets for anti-metastatic treatment. This review summarizes the current status of these methods: In vitro methods for studying cell migration involve two-dimensional (2D) assays (wound-healing/scratch assay), and methods based on chemotaxis (the Dunn chamber). The analysis of both cell migration and invasiveness in vitro require more complex systems based on the Boyden chamber principle (Transwell migration/invasive test, xCELLigence system), or microfluidic devices with three-dimensional (3D) microscopy visualization. 3D culture techniques are rapidly becoming routine and involve multicellular spheroid invasion assays or array chip-based, spherical approaches, multi-layer/multi-zone culture, or organoid non-spherical models, including multi-organ microfluidic chips. The in vivo methods are mostly based on mice, allowing genetically engineered mice models and transplant models (syngeneic mice, cell line-derived xenografts and patient-derived xenografts including humanized mice models). These methods currently represent a solid basis for the state-of-the art research that is focused on understanding metastatic fundamentals as well as the development of targeted anti-metastatic therapies, and stratified treatment in oncology.