Global Popularity Research Articles

Book review: Kwok, Virginia H. Y. (2023). <i>Language learning in the digital age: YouTube and learners of English as a foreign language</i>. Cambridge Scholars Publishing.

YouTube has gained global popularity for language education, especially among young language learners in informal contexts. Language Learning in the Digital Age: YouTube and Learners of English as a Foreign Language by Virginia H. Y. Kwok explores how university students in Hong Kong use YouTube to enhance their English language proficiency outside formal classroom settings. Through a qualitative, case study approach, the author delves into diverse ways students navigate and personalise their language learning opportunities on YouTube. This paper reviews the book, focusing on how the book provides a nuanced understanding of student engagement with YouTube and its role in facilitating autonomous and self-directed language learning.

Enhancing Yoga Awareness Among Future Healthcare Practitioners: A Study on MBBS Students' Knowledge and Perceptions

Background: Yoga, and art and science rooted in ancient Indian culture, is increasingly recognized for its holistic benefits, contributing to physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Despite its global popularity, knowledge and awareness of yoga amongst medical students, particularly within Health Professions Education, remain underexplored. This study aimed to assess the understanding of yoga and yoga therapy among MBBS students to help integrate these concepts into future medical practice. Aim and Objective: The study sought to evaluate the general awareness of yoga among medical students, particularly focusing on misconceptions, technical terminology, and therapeutic applications, aiming to enhance their ability to utilize yoga in a healthcare context. Materials and Methods: Conducted at the School of Yoga Therapy, Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth, this study involved 221 MBBS students participating in a yoga orientation program. The Yoga Awareness Questionnaire (YAQ), a 10-item pre-validated tool, was administered both before and after a single 60-minute yoga session. Paired t-tests were used to analyze changes in awareness with statistical significance set at p<0.05. Results: The average YAQ score increased significantly from 5 to 7 post-intervention, indicating improved awareness. Increases were noted across understanding holistic yoga, Ashtanga Yoga concepts, and dispelling misconceptions. However, some variability persisted in technical terminology understanding. Conclusion: A single yoga awareness session effectively enhanced medical students' understanding of yoga, promoting a more uniform baseline knowledge. These findings suggest that integrating yoga education in healthcare curricula could prepare future practitioners to incorporate holistic practices into patient care. As the Government of India and the National Medical Commission are advocating integration of Ayush systems within modern medicine, the results of this study have several important implications.

Korean Templestay as a Sustainable Global Cultural Product: The Case of Manggyeongsansa

While the trend of de-religiousization has accelerated globally, Korean Buddhism has become very hip around the world. While it was traditionally known as a symbol of a solemn and old religion, with its innovative transformation, Korean Buddhism has gained wide popularity in friendly and trendy atmospheres, especially among people in their 20s and 30s in Korea and abroad, regardless of religion. Thus, Korean Buddhism has a cultural affinity beyond religion, nationality, age, and gender. At the center of this popularization of Buddhism, there exists “Templestay”. Templestay is defined as staying in a Korean temple and experiencing traditional Korean culture, the spirit of Buddhist practice, the natural environment, and the daily life of temples. Templestay was selected as one of the world’s top five most successfully developed tourism and cultural resources by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), and one of the top 10 icons representing Korea according to the Republic of Korea’s Presidential Council on Nation Branding. Thus, Templestay is not just a Buddhist cultural experience but has been officially recognized as a sustainable global cultural product representing Korea with a history of 1700 years, where a global cultural product is defined as a cultural product that is shared on a global level. Considering Templestay’s wide global popularity, as well as its significant impact on the national economy, tourism, and cultural succession, with over 7 million participants, it is important to investigate Templestay from the perspective of sustainable management, such as CSR, CSV, and ESG. However, while a few studies exist on Templestay, the theoretical aspects of Templestay as a subject of sustainable management have not been sufficiently developed, since most research on Templestay has focused on the perspectives of religion or visitor experiences. Thus, by focusing on Manggyeongsansa Templestay, which was selected as one of the best Korean temples among the 150 temples offering Templestay in 2023, the findings from this case study provide significant implications and practical guidelines for the sustainable management of global cultural products to address fundamental issues from an angle that has not been covered sufficiently.

Ultrasound-guided minimally invasive removal of deep contraceptive implants: outcomes and challenges.

Contraceptive arm implants, such as Implanon NXT®/Nexplanon®, are reversible methods of birth control that have gained global popularity, with over 20 million worldwide users. While palpable implants can be easily removed, deep or non-palpable implants pose complications during extraction, often requiring open surgery. This ultrasound-guided removal technique offers a minimally invasive, safe, and effective alternative, providing real-time control over the implant and neurovascular structures. Our study aims to evaluate the effectiveness and challenges of this implant removal method. In this retrospective observational study, all cases referred to our institution for ultrasound-guided removal of contraceptive implants, from June 2022 to December 2023, were reviewed. Our facility serves as a referral center for handling challenging implants. Twenty-nine women with contraceptive implants were referred for implant removal in this period of time. Thirty implants were sent for removal in total (one patient had a double implant). Data specific to the patients were collected: age and body mass index (BMI). Data specific to the implant were also collected: time since implant insertion (months), history of a previous removal attempt, type of implant (single or double rod), implant palpability, laterality of the implant, supra or subfascial location, success or failure of the ultrasound-guided removal procedure and presence of complications in the post-procedure. Statistical analysis was conducted to determine the relationship between the procedure success rate and these variables, and also between these variables and the supra or subfascial location of the implant. Twenty-six of the 30 implants (86.67%) were successfully removed with this fully ultrasound-guided technique. In cases where the implant could not be removed, there was a higher rate of subfascial implant location (75%), while in cases where the removal was successful, the rate of subfascial implant location was significantly lower at 19.23% (P=0.048). Patients whose implants could be removed had a median BMI of 23.71 kg/m2, which was higher than the BMI of patients whose implants could not be removed (20.82 kg/m2), with a P=0.022. No complications were registered. Percutaneous real-time ultrasound-guided implant removal is effective, safe and offers a minimally-invasive alternative to open surgery. The removal of subfascial implants is also feasible but more challenging, leading to a reduction of success rate in this group. These positive outcomes suggest its potential as a standard initial approach for deep contraceptive implant removal.

In vino veritas: A metabolomics approach for authenticating Provence Rosé wines

Provence rosé wines have gained global popularity, making them vulnerable to fraud. This study aimed to identify specific chemical markers to detect counterfeit Provence rosé wines. An untargeted LC-MS-based metabolomics analysis was performed on a set of 30 wines classified as “Provence,” “Non-Provence,” and “Provence imitations.” Using the Molnotator workflow, 1300 potential metabolites were generated, and five key chemomarkers were selected through a machine learning pipeline. Further targeted analysis and bioinformatics using in silico MS/MS fragmentation systems confidently annotated three specific chemomarkers for “Provence” rosé: acuminoside, tetrahydroxydimethoxyflavone, and 5′-methoxycastavinol. A composite score using a PLS model combining the 3 chemomarkers effectively distinguished authentic wines, with high accuracy (sensitivity 83.3 %, specificity 100 %, accuracy 93.3 %).

College Student Social Network Characteristics and Alcohol Use: Differences (and Similarities) Based on Sexual Identity and Attraction.

Sexual minority (SM) college students have higher alcohol use and alcohol-related consequences than heterosexual students. Peers are salient determinants of young adult drinking, and examining social network characteristics is useful for understanding peer influence. This study used social network methods to understand network characteristics, alcohol use (i.e., max drinks), and alcohol consequences of SM and heterosexual college students. Sexual minority and heterosexual junior-year college students (N = 1,150) were compared on (1) social network features (eigenvector centrality, indegree, outdegree, mutuality, closeness), and (2) alcohol use and consequences. We also determined (3) whether social network characteristics were associated with alcohol use and consequences, and (4) whether these associations differed based on sexual identity or attraction. Students reporting a bisexual identity or same-gender attraction had greater eigenvector centrality (global popularity or prestige) than heterosexual or students reporting exclusively other-gender attraction, respectively. Students reporting same-gender attraction had higher outdegree (expansiveness) and more reciprocated ties (mutuality) than individuals reporting exclusively other-gender attraction, but heterosexual students and students with other-gender attraction reported higher relationship closeness; they also reported a higher number of drinks than bisexual students and students with same-gender attraction. One significant interaction showed that outdegree (expansiveness) was associated with alcohol consequences for students who reported any same-gender attraction, but not for students who reported exclusively opposite-gender attraction. SM college students' greater network prominence differs from research with adolescents and might reflect students' efforts to establish more affirming social connections in a college environment.

Effectiveness and Long-Term Effects of SER+ FELIZ(mente): A School-Based Mindfulness Program for Portuguese Elementary Students

School-based mindfulness programs (SBMPs) have gained global popularity. Yet, there is a need for more rigorous procedures to develop and assess them. This study aimed to address these limitations by examining the effectiveness of a Portuguese SBMP, called SER + FELIZ(mente). The final sample included 190 third and fourth-graders: 99 in the SBMP group and 91 in a wait-list group. Effects on attentional control, emotional regulation and wellbeing were examined in the short term (T2) and 6 months later (T3). We also tested the moderating role of age, gender, and baseline scores. Using a multilevel modeling approach, results showed a clear benefit of SBMP on emotional wellbeing at T2 but not T3. Despite SBMP students surpassing wait-list students in attentional control, cognitive reappraisal, and social wellbeing at T2, these effects were due to a levelling off among SBMP students, coupled with a decline among wait-list students from T1 to T2. These effects were moderated by age at T3. While universal improvements were limited, our SBMP seemed to have acted as a shield against school stressors (i.e., likely, test anxiety at T2). This opens a new avenue for research concerning the role of SBMPs in preventing (rather than repairing) mental-health issues in elementary students.

Perceptions and experiences of a multi-domain preventive health programme: a qualitative study informing future community-based health interventions in singapore

BackgroundDespite global popularity, Community-based Health Intervention (CBHI) programmes have yet to be fully incorporated into Singapore’s public healthcare systems, with most initiatives focusing on specific diseases. This qualitative study aimed to evaluate older adults’ perceptions of the “Get Well, Live Well” multi-domain preventive health programme, explore the effectiveness of Community Health Workers (CHWs) in promoting health literacy and modifying health behaviours, and examine participants’ experiences in the CHW-delivered CBHI programme.MethodsPurposeful sampling was used to recruit study subjects from participants in the “Get Well, Live Well” programme until data saturation was achieved. In-depth, semi-structured, one-to-one telephone interviews were conducted in English or Chinese with participants aged ≥ 40 years. Audio recordings were translated into English as needed and transcribed in full. The collected data were anonymised, and thematic analysis was performed by three trained evaluators using a structured process.ResultsThe final study sample included 19 subjects (median age of 64 years; 84% women; and 95% Chinese). Three key themes emerged regarding the programme’s value, interactions with CHW, also known as Care Connectors, and their facilitation of health services/behaviours. Participants acknowledged that the “Get Well, Live Well” programme provided physical/emotional support, improved health literacy, and enhanced social interaction. The programme’s effectiveness may depend on Care Connector’s personal qualities, service quality beyond expectation, connection with participants, and their proactive and authoritative roles in facilitating health services/behaviours.ConclusionThe findings suggest that future Community-based Health Interventions could benefit from deploying CHWs with strong people skills to enhance the programme’s success.

The Role of Exotic Fruits in Modern Diets: Health Benefits and Nutritional Value

Exotic fruits, once restricted to certain regions of the world, have gained global popularity due to their unique flavor, bright color, and exceptional nutritional profile. These fruits, including acai berry, dragon fruit, kiwifruit, and mangosteen, are increasingly being incorporated into modern diets due to their potential health benefits. Rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, exotic fruits are associated with improved immunity, heart health, and digestive health. Additionally, many exotic fruits are valued for their high fiber content, anti-inflammatory properties, and role in combating oxidative stress, which is important for disease prevention. This research explores the growing role of exotic fruits in dietary trends, emphasizing their contribution to nutrition and health. Through examining their nutritional value, bioactive compounds, and the specific benefits they provide, it becomes evident that these fruits can play an important role in increasing dietary diversity and promoting a balanced, health-conscious lifestyle. As consumer demand for exotic fruits grows, incorporating them into the everyday diet serves as both a culinary trend and a nutritional strategy to address modern health challenges.

A students-as-partners-inspired approach to assessment rubric design

The global popularity of the students-as-partners (SaP) model in the higher education sector demonstrates that students, through their lived experiences, have valuable perspectives to contribute to shaping university curricular and co-curricular experiences. While there are numerous inherent benefits associated with facilitating SaP arrangements, incorporating such practices to influence curricular change can be difficult in highly regulated and accredited courses. This article presents a successfully trialled SaP-inspired model involving assessment rubric design in the Bachelor of Laws degree offered at Curtin University in Australia, which is subject to multiple layers of regulation at national and state levels by public and private bodies. The SaP-inspired model presented in the paper is a useful starting point for academics wanting to engage in SaP co-creation of curricular initiatives in contexts that are not especially conducive to SaP, for example, heavily regulated and accredited courses. This article further contributes to existing SaP literature as it presents qualitative and quantitative data collected from the students who engaged in the SaP-inspired model, as well as data collected from students who experienced the SaP-inspired outputs first hand. This article commences with a student reflection on the SaP-inspired model, written by Ryan Kirby who participated in the workshop and assisted in the creation of the assessment rubric and supplementary materials.

Comparison of quadriceps and hamstring muscle strength ratios between dominant and non-dominant legs in Saudi under-17 and under-19 premier league football players: A cross-sectional study

Football’s global popularity is often overshadowed by frequent lower limb injuries, particularly hamstring strains, which are linked to imbalances in the strength ratio of hamstring-to-quadriceps (H/Q). Research on these factors among Saudi Premier League players, specifically in Madinah City, is limited. Our study is a cross-sectional study that assessed 42 male professional football players from Ohoud Football Club, divided into Underage 17 (UD- 17) and Under age 19 (UD-19) of age groups. The Strength of muscle for hamstrings and quadriceps, as well as the H/Q ratio, was measured using handheld dynamometers (HDD), and demographic data were analyzed using SPSSv26. Results showed that UD-19 players had significantly greater quadriceps strength on both dominants (dominant and non-dominant) sides compared to UD-17 players, with no significant differences in strength of hamstring. The ratio of hamstring to quadriceps was significantly higher in UD-17 players on the dominant side compared to UD-19 players, but statistically significant differences were not found on the non-dominant side. These results suggest that quadriceps strength develops with age and training, potentially reducing injury risk, while the strength of hamstring stabilizes earlier. Tailored training programs focusing on quadriceps strength and balanced hamstring development are recommended for improving injury prevention and performance. Future research involving larger and more diverse samples could further validate these findings and provide a deeper understanding of muscle dynamics in young football players.

Tracing the technological trajectories of smart logistics domain based on citation analysis and topic modelling

ABSTRACT The emergence and development of intelligent technology are triggering major changes in the logistics industry, and relevant scientific and technological research on smart logistics (SL) is emerging endlessly. However, there is no research that systematically explores SL from the technological perspective. Therefore, this article selects 47,253 documents retrieved from the Derwent Innovation Index for systematic analysis and provides a comprehensive understanding of the SL domain. We combine main path analysis (MPA) and LDA topic modelling approaches to identify technological evolution trajectories. Through three main paths, the key technologies and technological evolution directions in the SL domain are revealed. Through topic identification and topic correlation calculation, global topic popularity trends and local topic evolution paths are identified. Finally, this study summarises our findings, contributions, and limitations. This is the first attempt to detect key technologies in the SL domain through MPA and topic analysis, thereby guiding relevant researchers and enterprises.

ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING AND DESIGN: EXPLORING URBAN RESILIENCE THROUGH E-HAILING

Sustainable cities strive for balance in environmental health, economic vitality and social equity through efficient and resilient urban planning. Crucial to this balance, sustainable transportation systems reduce carbon emissions, ease traffic congestion and promote clean energy. Among various sustainable transportation options, e-hailing has gained global popularity, offering convenient rides through smartphone apps. This quantitative research focuses on exploring the usage patterns of e-hailing services among university students at the main campus of Universiti Sains Malaysia. A total of 392 university students were surveyed using stratified random sampling, and SPSS analysis revealed a moderate positive correlation between attitudes towards e-hailing and satisfaction with safety, price, convenience and availability. Furthermore, regression analysis confirmed significant relationships between attitude and satisfaction levels. By investigating how travel behaviour patterns and attitudes towards e-hailing influence student satisfaction, the study aims to understand e-hailing’s role as an alternative mode of transportation in enhancing overall transportation service satisfaction. These insights offer valuable guidance for transport planners, e-hailing companies and university administrations seeking to improve transportation options and student satisfaction.

Low‐Temperature Domestic Deep‐Frying of Soybean‐Cake Tempe in Vegetable Cooking Oils: How Many Times Are Stable to Use?

ABSTRACTTempe has gained global popularity, with local vegetable oils commonly used for frying. This study evaluates the cooking temperature and stability of five vegetable oils (olive [Oo], palm [Po], canola [Cnlo], sunflower [Sfo], and coconut [Cco]) for deep‐frying Tempe, using acid and peroxide values (AV and PV), antiradical activity, and saturated and unsaturated fatty acids. AV, PV, and linolenic acid (LNA) were referenced to international standards for vegetable oil (0.6 mg KOH/g, 10 mEq of oxygen/kg oil, and 2% for AV, PV, LNA respectively). The initial oil temperature was 130°C ± 1°C, with final temperatures between 145.7°C ± 6.8°C at the lowest and 156.8°C ± 13.0°C at the highest, well below existing studies (≥170°C–250°C). Based on AV and PV, Oo, Po, and Cco were stable up to the fourth, fifth, and eighth frying repeat (FR). The PV of Cnlo (10.2 mEq of oxygen/kg oil) and Sfo (15.5 mEq of oxygen/kg oil) exceeded the maximum limit after one use. The Fresh Cnlo LNA (7.35%) was higher than the limit, while the rest of the oils remained lower and stable until the seventh FR. Po exhibited the highest average antiradical activity (85.42% ± 4.63%), followed by Oo (31.01% ± 10.26%), Sfo (27.96% ± 9.67%), Cnlo (21.85% ± 5.71%), and Cco (14.40% ± 3.46%). Cco had the highest saturated fatty acids (SFA), Oo had the highest monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), and Sfo had the highest polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). No significant SFA, MUFA, or PUFA changes were observed up to the seventh FR. Trans‐fatty acids C18:1n 9T and C18:2n 6T were undetected in fresh and used oil, indicating a unique character in low‐temperature deep‐frying in domestic settings. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of low‐temperature deep‐frying of Tempe. It suggests that Oo, Po, Cnlo, Sfo, and Cco were stable to deep‐fried Tempe for four, five, zero, one, and eight FR, respectively. Deep‐frying Tempe at lower temperatures and for a shorter duration may enhance its health benefits and help retain its flavor.”

Enhancing practical skills of TVET students using mathematics as a tool: A case study in some selected TVET schools in Kwahu

Ghana, a developing nation, is no exception to the growing global popularity of technical and vocational education and training (TVET) education. However, the idea of making TVET more applicable and work-oriented in Ghana has only been briefly considered. This investigation examines how mathematics is used as a tool to enhance the practical skills of TVET students. 316 respondents, consisting of 234 males and 82 females, were chosen as the target group by a straightforward random selection procedure. Using the purposive sampling technique, second-year students from three TVET institutions in Kwahu were chosen as the target respondents. For the purpose of investigation, an exploratory survey approach was utilized. Typically, questionnaires were administered to a sample of students at a specific period in order to record their attitudes, beliefs, actions, perceptions, or qualities for descriptive analysis. The data-collection techniques employed in this study, which concentrated on aspects including TVET students’ attitudes toward mathematics (ATTI), TVET students’ interest in mathematics, and TVET students’ practical skills, were modified from those used in earlier studies conducted by other researchers. The acquired data was examined making use of Amos version 23’s structural equation modeling software. The study’s findings showed that TVET students’ attitudes about mathematics significantly influenced their interest in the subject. The outcomes also revealed that ATTI had a positive effect and were statistically significant for their practical skills.

Comparative Analysis of Shelf-Life, Antioxidant Activity, and Phytochemical Contents of Australian-Grown and Imported Dragon Fruit under Ambient Conditions

Dragon fruit (Hylocereus spp.), renowned for its aesthetic appeal and rich antioxidant content, has gained global popularity due to its numerous health benefits. In Australia, despite growing commercial interest in cultivating dragon fruit, there is uncertainty for local growers stemming from competition with imported varieties. Notably, there is a lack of comparative research on the shelf-life, antioxidant activity, and phytochemical contents of Australian-grown versus imported dragon fruit, which is crucial for enhancing market competitiveness and consumer perception. This study compares the shelf-life, antioxidant activity, and phytochemical content of Australian-grown and imported dragon fruits under ambient conditions, addressing the competitive challenges faced by local growers. Freshly harvested white-flesh (Hylocereus undatus) and red-flesh (H. polyrhizus) dragon fruit were sourced from Queensland and the Northern Territory and imported fruit were sourced from an importer in Queensland. All fruit were assessed for key quality parameters including peel color, firmness, weight loss, total soluble solids (TSS), pH, titratable acidity (TA), total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), cupric reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC), total betalain content (TBC), and total anthocyanin content (TAC). The results indicate that Australian-grown white dragon fruits exhibited average one day longer shelf-life with less color degradation, better firmness retention, and less decline in weight loss, TSS, and acidity compared to imported fruits. Australian-grown red dragon fruits showed similar shelf-life compared to fruits from overseas. Antioxidant activities and phytochemicals were consistently higher in Australian-grown fruits throughout their shelf-life. These findings indicate that Australian-grown dragon fruits offer better physical quality and retain more nutritional value, which could enhance their marketability.

Acceptance of Korean Food Culture among Young Generations in Malaysia: Health and Authentic Taste Perspectives

The Korean Wave, also known as Hallyu, has significantly impacted global culture, and has affected people around the world. This influence has also become a trend in Malaysia, where Korean cultural products are widely embraced, especially by the younger generation. The authenticity of Korean flavors is essential for maintaining its unique culinary identity while health-conscious markets around the world have led to a surge in demand for Korean food Therefore, this study aims to assess the consumer acceptance of Korean food in Malaysia, particularly in Sungai Petani, Kedah, and Pulau Pinang. The Korean Wave, which represents the global popularity of South Korean culture since the 2000s, has exerted a considerable influence on various cultural aspects, including cuisine. Through a quantitative survey, data were collected from 150 participants in the northern area, specifically targeting Generations Y and Z through convenience sampling. The collected data was then analyzed for descriptive statistics, and the correlation to test the hypotheses. The results indicate a significant positive correlation between consumer acceptance of Korean food, health perspectives, and authentic taste variables. The findings of this study suggest that increased exposure to Korean culture through the Korean Wave boosts consumer acceptance and purchase intentions for Korean food culture in Malaysia. This information is valuable for marketers and restaurateurs seeking to capture the growing demand for Korean cuisine. This study offers a localized perspective on the global phenomenon of Korean cultural influence and provides practical recommendations for future research.

Outstanding Scientist I. Ya. Horbachevsky (dedicated to the 170th birth anniversary)

Ivan Yakovych Horbachevsky is one of the outstanding scientists of world science, whose activities span the middle of the 20th century. He, our compatriot, comes from the village Zarubyntsi, Ternopil region. The numerous scientific and governmental titles, ranks and awards that he was awarded confirm Ivan Horbachevsky’s global authority and popularity. He was elected honorary president of international scientific forums and congresses. He was also entrusted with the most difficult tasks in medicine and education. The scientist brought recognition to University of Vienna. He was elected a member (and later chairman) of the Royal Sanitary Council, given several high titles and appointed the first minister of health in Austria-Hungary. Ivan Horbachevsky’s scientific heritage includes more than 50 works published in German, Czech and Ukrainian languages (only 6 of them were in Ukrainian). He proposed the nomenclature of organic (1924–1926) and inorganic compounds (1939–1941), which formed the basis of the chemical substance classification and nomenclature. His nomenclature was implemented in Ukraine before World War II. Ivan Yakovych Horbachevsky was a candidate for the Nobel Prize in Physiology and Medicine in 1911. He lived for 67 years outside of his motherland, but he was closely connected with Ukraine, and did a lot for our state independence.

Long- and short-term effectiveness of traditional Chinese exercises in improving the overall physical capacity of patients with knee osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

The increasing global popularity of traditional Chinese exercise (TCE) provides substantial evidence of its significant efficacy in treating knee osteoarthritis (KOA). To assess the impact of different types of TCE and varying exercise durations on KOA patients, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on this topic. Two investigators extensively searched four electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science) from their inception until December 16, 2023, to identify all relevant RCTs on the use of TCE for KOA treatment. The included studies were assessed for risk of bias using the Cochrane Collaboration Risk of Bias Tool (CCRBT), and data analysis was performed using Stata 15.0. A total of 20 RCTs, involving 1367 patients with KOA, met the inclusion criteria. Compared to the control group, TCE demonstrated significant improvement in three subscale scores of the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) [Pain (SMD = -0.44; P = .0001); Stiffness (SMD = -0.35; P = .001); Physical function (SMD = -0.52; P = .0001)] and two subscale scores of the 36-item Short-Form (SF-36) [Physical score (WMD = 2.76; P = .001); Mental score (WMD = 2.49; P = .0001)] in KOA patients. Subgroup analysis showed that both long-term habitual exercise (over 12 weeks) and short-term exercise (within 12 weeks) were more effective than the control group in improving pain, joint stiffness, and physical function in KOA patients. Tai Chi, among the four TCE modalities analyzed, demonstrated improvements in all indicators. Based on the results of our meta-analysis, it can be concluded that both long-term and short-term TCE interventions are effective in alleviating the main symptoms of KOA and improving patients' physical function. However, due to limited methodological quality and inconsistent outcome measures in the included RCTs, further high-quality RCTs with larger sample sizes and longer-term interventions are necessary to validate our findings before TCE can be recommended as a treatment for KOA.

A Bibliometric Analysis of the 100 Most-Cited Articles concerning Atraumatic Restorative Treatment.

The present study aimed to identify the 100 most-cited articles concerning Atraumatic Restorative Treatment (ART) through a bibliometric analysis. The search was conducted in the Web of Science database in December 2023. Scopus and Google Scholar were used to compare the number of citations. The following data were extracted from the articles: title, authors, number of citations, access type, institution, country, continent, year of publication, journal, keywords, study design, and theme. Collaborative networks were generated using the VOSviewer software. Google Trends was used to investigate the global popularity of "atraumatic restorative treatment" research. The 100 selected articles, published between 1996 and 2019, were cited 5,092 times, ranging from 21 to 239 citations. Caries Research (12%) and Community Dentistry and Oral Epidemiology (12%) published the highest number of articles. Clinical study (52%) was the most prevalent study design. The main theme addressed was restoration longevity (43%). Conventional high-viscosity glass ionomer was the most used restorative material (69%). The country with the highest number of articles was the Netherlands (33%) and Europe was the continent with most publications (38%). The Rabboud University of Nijmegen had the highest number of articles (25%). Frencken JE was the most prominent author (38%). The most common keyword was "atraumatic restorative treatment" (n=60). According to Google Trends, Tanzania was the country that searched the most about ART. The 100 most cited articles on ART were mainly composed of clinical studies focusing on the longevity of restorations and originated in Europe.