bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Comparison of the Adhesive Remnant Index and Shear Bond Strength of Different Metal Bracket Bases on Artificially Aged Human Teeth: An In vitro Study
Authors: Cervantes-Ganoza Luis , Castro-Ramirez Leonor , Aroste-Andía Rosa , Huamani-Echaccaya José , Ladera-Castañeda Marysela , Cayo-Rojas César 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Aim:
Bond failure can compromise the clinical efficacy and duration of orthodontic treatment. A decemented bracket can lengthen the course of treatment by about 0.6 months. This study aimed to compare the adhesive remnant index (ARI) and shear bond strength of different metal bracket bases on artificially aged human teeth.

Materials and Methods:
In this experimental in vitro, prospective, cross-sectional study, thirty-six human premolars were cemented with three types of metal bracket base designs: Group 1 had a laser-structured base, Group 2 had a mesh base, and Group 3 had a base with retention grooves. All groups were bonded with Transbond XT light-curing resin. Shear strength testing was performed, and the ARI was evaluated. The parametric one-factor analysis of variance test and Tukey’s post hoc test were used for the comparison of shear bond strength, and the effect size was also evaluated with eta squared. In addition, the Kruskal–Wallis test was used to compare the ARI of the three groups on an ordinal scale. All statistics were set at a significance of P < 0.05.

Results:
The ARI scores did not exhibit any statistically significant differences (P = 0.163). Nevertheless, the three groups exhibited statistically significant differences in shear bond strength, with an effect size of 69% (P < 0.001). The mesh base bracket had the lowest average (9.9 ± 2.6 MPa) (P < 0.001), while the laser-structured base bracket had the greatest average (19.1 ± 3.0 MPa) (P = 0.006).

Conclusion:
The variation in shear bond strength was influenced by 69% due to the type of the metal bracket base used. Laser-structured and mesh-based brackets had the highest and lowest shear strength, respectively. All bases left a similar ARI on the tooth enamel.
The Parental Concern and Acceptance of Silver Diamine Fluoride Treatment in Preschool Children: A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Ladparkdy Souphavady , Asvanund Yuwadee , Prapansilp Woranun , Srimaneekarn Natchalee 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Aim:
Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) is a minimally invasive treatment with proven efficacy for managing early childhood caries. However, the dark staining associated with SDF treatment remains a major concern that affects parental acceptance. This study examines the level of parental acceptance of SDF treatment for preschool children in Laos and explores associated factors such as parental anxiety, previous dental experience, and demographic data.

Materials and Methods:
A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 324 parents of children aged 2–5 years enrolled in preschools in Vientiane Capital, Laos. Participants provided demographic information, details on their children’s dental history, and their own dental anxiety levels. Following a video demonstration of the effectiveness and application of SDF, parents completed a survey assessing their acceptance of and concerns about SDF using a 5-point Likert scale. Parental dental anxiety was measured with the modified dental anxiety scale. Data were analyzed using chi-square tests, independent t tests, and multiple logistic regression (P ≤ 0.05).

Results:
Eighty percent of the parents accepted SDF treatment for their children. Those highly concerned about SDF staining were significantly less likely to accept it as a treatment option (P < 0.01). Increased acceptance correlated with reduced concern about staining (95% confidence interval = 15.57–1095.88). Additionally, 84.9% of parents reported some level of dental anxiety, with older parents showing higher acceptance of SDF.

Conclusions:
Parents were highly receptive of the SDF treatment for their children’s primary dentition. Parents who were older tended to be less concerned about the staining, and those who had a high level of dental anxiety were more likely to accept SDF treatment.
Interesting Life Journey of a Type 1 Diabetes Individual from the Era of Injectable Insulins to the Hybrid Closed-Loop Insulin Pump
Authors: Damle Varun Anil , Amutha Anandakumar , Lovelena Munnavar , Mohan Viswanathan 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) pump has shown good outcomes in individuals with diabetes. An individual with type 1 diabetes (T1D) was diagnosed in 1996 at the age of 14 years with GAD-positive and absent C Peptide reserves confirming the diagnosis. Initially, the individual was started with the conventional treatment for T1D consisting of multiple insulin injections per day, however, with this treatment, there was a wide fluctuation in the blood sugar levels with frequent hyperglycemic and hypoglycemic episodes, and could not achieve strict HbA1c control. In 2019, the treatment was switched to a 620G CSII pump, the fluctuations in blood sugar levels were reduced, but still, there were occasional hyperglycemic and hypoglycemic episodes failing to achieve the target HbA1c control. In 2022, again the treatment was changed to the latest 780G CSII pump termed the artificial pancreas which helped the person with T1D to achieve strict blood sugar level control and excellent ‘Time in Range’ with no hyperglycemic and hypoglycemic episodes and a better quality of life.
Improving Medication Adherence in Geriatric T2DM Patients: A Factorial Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Samajdar Shambo Samrat , Tripathi Rohan , Mukherjee Shatavisa , Biswas Kaushik , Joshi Shashank R. , Sarkar Sougata , Tripathi Santanu K. , Saboo Bharat 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background:
The complexity of managing type 2 diabetes (T2D) in the elderly is compounded by the need to balance over-prescription, under-prescription, and appropriate prescription. Managing hyperglycemia and its complications, along with geriatric syndromes such as cognitive impairment and falls, often leads to use of an increased number of medications. Quality improvement measures, while aimed at better management, can inadvertently contribute to the burden of polypharmacy. Addressing medication non-adherence is crucial, as it is a significant contributor to poor clinical outcomes, increased hospitalizations, and healthcare costs.

Objectives:
This study thus aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions to improve medication adherence among elderly patients with T2D. It assessed the impact of a medication adherence device, clinical pharmacological intervention, and their combination compared to standard of care (SOC) alone on adherence rates, adverse drug reactions (ADRs), and glycemic control.

Materials and Methods:
This pilot study was a factorial randomized controlled trial. A total of 120 elderly T2D patients with a medication adherence rate of less than 80% over the past year were randomized into four groups: (1) medication adherence device + SOC, (2) clinical pharmacological intervention + SOC, (3) combined intervention + SOC, and (4) SOC alone. The primary outcome was medication adherence, assessed through pill counting. ADRs were evaluated using the Naranjo ADR causality assessment scale, and glycemic control was monitored through HbA1c levels. Statistical analyses included chi-square tests and ANOVA, with significance set at P < 0.05.

Results:
Interim analysis showed the highest adherence rate in the combined intervention group (82.1%), followed by the clinical pharmacological intervention + SOC group (75.3%), the medication adherence device + SOC group (73.1%), and the SOC alone group (70.0%). The combined intervention group also recorded the lowest ADR rate (6.6%). Regarding glycemic control, 81% of the combined intervention group achieved an HbA1c level of less than 7%, compared to 80% in the clinical pharmacological intervention + SOC group, 78% in the medication adherence device + SOC group, and 69% in the SOC alone group. Differences in glycemic control were not statistically significant (P = 0.950).

Conclusions:
The study indicates that combined interventions including medication adherence devices along with SOC significantly improve medication adherence and reduce ADRs in elderly T2D patients. Future research should focus on diverse populations and long-term sustainability of these interventions.
Cardiorenal Benefit of Tirzepatide in Type 1 Diabetes: A Case Report
Authors: Ahmed Khalid , Koubeh Sakina , Ahmed Aisha , Hussain Suleiman 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D) who are obese are at risk of cardiovascular disease, renal diseases, and other complications. Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for T1D, necessitating individuals with this condition to rely on lifelong insulin therapy. Tirzepatide, a dual-acting glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide/glucagon-like peptide-1 agonist, has recently been approved for treating type 2 diabetes. We report the case of a 38-year-old male who presented with T1D, stage 2 chronic kidney disease, obesity, and other comorbidities. He was prescribed tirzepatide 2.5 mg initially, followed by titration up to 5 mg. A significant reduction in blood glucose levels, weight, and microalbumin levels was observed. Additionally, the systolic blood pressure level was also seen to improve. These results highlight new indications of tirzepatide in managing T1D and obesity. However, further studies are warranted to explore its efficacy and safety in patients with T1D.
Clinical Utility of Serial Monitoring of C-Peptide in Diagnostic Dilemmas of Young-Onset Diabetes: A Case-Based Discussion
Authors: Gangadhara Praveen , Mohan Anjana Ranjit , Unnikrishnan Ranjit , Mohan Viswanathan 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Diabetes in the young has been traditionally defined as onset of diabetes below 35 years of age. In this age bracket, a variety of distinct types of diabetes might occur which poses a unique challenge in the diagnosis and management. Phenotypic features such as age of onset, presence of obesity and family history have traditionally been used in differentiating the various types of diabetes. With the increasing prevalence of obesity and T2DM in youth, these features have become less reliable in classifying diabetes in this age group. Along with detailed patient history and physical examination, biochemical parameters such as C-peptide and presence or absence of pancreatic autoantibodies (along with imaging studies for pancreatic pathology and genetic testing for monogenic forms of diabetes) are assuming greater importance in appropriate diagnosis and understanding the types of diabetes. C-peptide test which is a proxy for pancreatic beta cell function plays an important role in classifying type / subtypes of diabetes. When used appropriately it also helps in personalized approach to treatment and practice of Precision Diabetes.
Comparative Effects of Different Focus Methods on Muscular Activation During Single-Leg-Squat Exercise
Authors: Atalay ES , Soylu Ç , Kılınç B , Şahan TY , Türker D , Demir P , Yıldırım NÜ 
Published: October 2024

Background:
Single-leg squats are frequently featured in training and rehabilitation programs. The use of focus during exercise changes the state of concentration during exercise. This causes changes in muscular activity. No study has been found comparing focusing methods’ effectiveness during single-leg squat movement.

Aim:
This study aims to compare the changes in lower extremity muscular activations in cases of external focus, internal focus, and absence of focus.

Methods:
The muscular activities (Gluteus Medius, Vastus Lateralis, Vastus Medialis, Rectus Femoris, Biceps Femoris, and Semitendinosus) of the healthy participants included in the study were measured with the surface electromyography (EMG) device. External focus, internal focus and without-focus positions were used.

Results:
Seventeen recreationally active participants were included in this study. The muscular activities of the participants, which occurred in three different situations, were measured with the surface electromyography (EMG) device. While the quadriceps were more active in the descent phase, the hamstring muscle group was more active in the ascent phase. The external focus provided more muscular activation than the other two focal conditions.

Conclusion:
According to the results of this study, the use of focus during single-leg squat training and rehabilitation may change the muscular response obtained.
Comparison of the Effects of Microfracture, Soft Callus Implantation, and Matrix-Supported Chondrocyte Implantation in an Experimental Osteochondral Defect Model in Rats
Authors: Özkan ÖC , Kurdal DP , Yılmaz B , Tutcu HK , Somuncu ÖS , Yücel IA , Savaşır E , Midi A 
Published: October 2024

Background:
The treatment of cartilage defects remains challenging due to the avascular nature of cartilage.

Aim:
This study investigates the therapeutic effect of soft callus in osteochondral defects and explores the ability of multipotent and pluripotent cells within the callus to form fibrous or hyaline cartilage in the defective area.

Methods:
Twenty-one rats were divided into three equal groups: Group 1 received only microfracture (MF), group 2 received microfracture with autologous chondrocyte implantation (MF+ACI), and group 3 received microfracture with soft callus implantation (MF+SCI). All rats underwent diaphyseal fracture in their left tibias, which was stabilized with a Kirshner wire. One week later, osteochondral defects were created in the right knees of all rats. For group 1, microfracture alone was applied to initiate healing in the defects. In group 2, heterologous chondrocytes, previously harvested from the lateral condyle of a rat’s left femur and cultivated in a laboratory environment, were implanted into the microfracture site. In group 3, soft callus tissue obtained from the left tibial fracture was compressed and implanted into the defective area. All groups were sacrificed at the 6th week, and the healing status of the osteochondral defect areas was histopathologically evaluated.

Results:
Macroscopic examination at the end of the study revealed comparable ICRS-1 scores for MF+ACI (group 2) (11.28 ± 1.25) and MF+SCI (group 3) (11.14 ± 0.37), while MF alone (group 1) (4.28 ± 1.25) showed significantly lower results. Microscopic examination yielded similar outcomes. Regarding histological scores, ICRS-2 scores for MF (group 1) (35.30 ± 1.13), MF+ACI (group 2) (47.09 ± 1.63), and MF+SCI (group 3) (43.97 ± 1.49) were statistically significantly lower.

Conclusion:
Defects treated with soft callus implantation demonstrated comparable outcomes to the widely used and gold-standard autologous chondrocyte implantation. When compared to microfracture alone, better macroscopic and microscopic results were achieved with soft callus implantation.
Comparison of the Analgesic Effect of Erector Spinae Plane Block Versus Caudal Epidural Block Following Unilateral Pediatric Inguinal Hernia Surgery: A Prospective, Randomized Study
Authors: Kart K , Gencer M , İtal İ 
Published: October 2024

Background:
Caudal epidural block (CEB) has long been used as a standard method for pain control in pediatric surgery. Erector spinae plane block (ESPB) is a newer technique that has attracted attention for its potential to provide analgesia in children.

Aim:
The aim of this study was to compare and evaluate the effectiveness of ESPB and caudal block on postoperative pain in pediatric patients who underwent unilateral inguinal hernia surgery.

Methods:
This prospective, randomized trial was conducted with a total of 60 pediatric patients, aged 1–8 years, in the ASA I–II group. The patients were randomly divided into two groups as Group CEB (n = 30), and Group ESPB (n = 30). In the caudal block group, 0.25% bupivacaine 0.5 ml/kg (max 20 ml) was administered in the caudal space, while in the ESPB block group, the block was performed with 0.5 ml/kg 0.25% (max 20 ml) bupivacaine at the L1 vertebral level. Face, legs, activity, cry, and consolability (FLACC) scores were recorded postoperatively at 1, 2, 4, 6, 12, and 24th hours. The first analgesic requirements and time for rescue analgesia were also recorded.

Results:
While no significant difference was noticed between the two groups’ FLACC scores at the zeroth hour, first hour, second hour, fourth hour, and sixth hour (i.e. postoperatively [P > 0.05]), the FLACC scores of 12th hour in the ESPB group were significantly lower than the caudal block group (P < 0.05). There was also no significant difference in intraoperative additional analgesia requirements between the groups (P > 0.05). The time to first postoperative analgesia in the ESPB group was higher than that in the caudal block group (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:
The ESPB provided superior postoperative analgesia to the CEB in pediatric patients undergoing inguinal hernia surgery, and ESPB can be used as a relatively safer postoperative multimodal analgesia approach as an alternative to CEB.
Exploring Myrrh Oil as a Natural Antimicrobial Agent Against Oral Pathogens: An In Vitro Research
Authors: Koppolu P , Khan HF , AlQasem SM , AlShaban RAA , AlAjmi HK , Afroz M , Swapna LA 
Published: October 2024

Background:
While contemporary pharmaceuticals play a critical role in managing oral infections, there remain persistent concerns regarding their chemical composition and potential adverse effects. This apprehension has led to an increased focus on exploring natural alternatives, particularly herbal substances, for their potential therapeutic benefits in oral health.

Aim:
This study aimed to examine the antibacterial properties of myrrh oil against common oral bacteria, including Candida, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella, and Staphylococcus aureus, and to assess its suitability as a natural alternative in oral healthcare.

Methods:
Oral swabs were obtained from 50 individuals from various socioeconomic backgrounds. The isolated organisms were cultivated on different types of media and identified using established microbiological methods. Bacterial growth inhibition was evaluated by culturing subsequent cultures on Muller-Hinton agar with myrrh oil. This agar medium was selected for its suitability in evaluating myrrh oil’s suppressive impact on oral bacteria proliferation.

Results:
Candida demonstrated abundant proliferation on the control media but showed a reduction in colony-forming units when treated with myrrh oil. E. coli, Klebsiella, and Staphylococcus aureus exhibited decreased growth and suppressed colony formation when exposed to myrrh oil.

Conclusion:
These findings indicate that myrrh oil can prevent the growth of oral bacteria, making it a promising natural antibacterial agent for managing oral health. Additional investigations are needed to examine the safety, ideal dosage, and clinical feasibility of this treatment.
Neurological manifestation and complications of coronavirus disease 2019: MRI findings
Authors: Elsayed Alaa Hamdy , Khdrah Rania S.A. , Elbahnasy Wafik S. , Abd Al Haleem Kareem M. 
Published: October 2024

Background
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease that commonly manifests in forms that are systemic and/or respiratory. Although less common, some individuals also manifest mild symptoms of gastrointestinal tract or cardiovascular system. We aimed to assess the MRI findings in patients suffering from neurological manifestations after COVID-19.

Aim
We aimed to assess the MRI findings in patients suffering from neurological manifestations after COVID-19.

Patients and methods
This study was conducted on 60 patients with clinical criteria of both sexes, with clinical criteria of neurological manifestations after COVID-19 infection. Patients were subdivided in to two groups according to computed tomography (CT) severity index (moderate n=33 and severe n=27), ICU admission (negative n=4 and positive n=56) and white matter changes (negative n=20 and positive n=40). All patients were subjected to radiological assessment by CT scan of the chest and MRI examinations of the brain.

Results
There was statistically significant higher mean O2 saturation among cases with moderate CT severity index than cases with severe CT index and higher mean D-dimer among cases admitted to ICU than cases not admitted. There was a statistically significant higher frequency of bilateral lobar involvement, CONSOL among cases with severe than moderate CT severity index, and higher frequency of reticulation among cases admitted to ICU than cases not admitted.

Conclusion
There may be a link between the neurological development symptoms and a poor prognosis in COVID-19 individuals.
Psycho-spatial predictors of drug use among Inner City Youths in Uyo
Authors: Akpan Wilson Eseme , Abikoye Gboyega Emmanuel 
Published: October 2024

This study examined psycho-spaal predictors (psychological – opmisc bias and stress: spaal-drug availability, neighborhood density and proximity) of drug use among inner city youths of Uyo. A descripve cross-seconal survey design was used to interview 228 youths in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. Parcipants, with an average age of 31.46, were 75% male. A standardized quesonnaire, consisng of Drug Use Disorder Idenficaon Test (DUDIT), the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), and the Revised Life Orientaon Test-Revised (LOT-R) were used for data collecon. Drug availability was assessed in this study in terms of ease of difficulty in obtaining the drug ranging from very easy to very difficult. Environmental proximity was assessed by asking the respondents the proximity between their residence and where the drug they used are sold- ranging from “On the same street” to “not available in my neighborhood”. Neighborhood density was assessed by asking the respondents their area of residence in Uyo – as high density or low density. Result showed that drug availability [β= -4.23; t = - 4.22; p < 0.05] stress level [β=0.33; t =2.96; p < 0.05] and opmisc bias [β= - 0.52; t=-3.18; p< 0.05] predicted drug use. The study concluded that these psychospaal variables are very important in understanding drug use among young persons and the need to situate intervenon within this psychospaal domain was emphasized.
Role of type a personality and substance use on perceived social stigma among undergraduates
Authors: Umoren Eene N. , Ukor Ruth E. , Okoye Cynthia A. , Ajibola Abdul-Rahman A. , Udo-Okuk Erikan N. , Okediji Abayomi A. 
Published: October 2024

This study explored the relaonship between Type A personality, substance use and perceived social sgma among university undergraduates. The study was a survey research which adopted the cross-seconal (exploratory) design. The Social Interaconist Theory by Goffman guided the study. A hypothesized model was developed and its empirical suitability was tested with three clearly delineated hypotheses. A sample of three hundred and ninety-seven (397) parcipants consisng of two hundred and two (202) males and one hundred and ninety-five (195) females, was surveyed. They were selected from twelve facules from three Universies. Parcipants' age ranged from 18 to 50 with a mean age of 34 years. The independent t-test was used to test hypotheses 1 and 2, while mulple regression was used for hypothesis 3. The first finding of the study revealed a significant influence of Type A personality on social sgma among the parcipants, thus the hypothesis was accepted. The second finding revealed a significant influence of substance use on social sgma among the parcipants, the hypothesis was also accepted. The third finding showed that Type A personality and substance use significantly and jointly predicted social sgma, the hypothesis was accepted. The findings of this study provide a beer understanding of the social sgma surrounding substance use and how it is perceived by students with Type A personality. The findings were discussed in relaon with past theorecal and empirical literature. Conclusions were drawn and recommendaons advanced in line with the study's findings.