Group Mean Research Articles

Influence of a Concomitant Medial Meniscus Injury on Knee Joint Function and Osteoarthritis Presence after Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction.

(1) Background: The aim of this study was to investigate how a medial meniscus injury accompanying an anterior cruciate ligament rupture affects the clinical outcome 10 years after ACL reconstruction. (2) Methods: A total of 37 patients who received anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) were included in this retrospective study. Two groups were analyzed at a single follow-up of 10 years: (i) "isolated (ACLR)" (n = 20) and (ii) "ACLR with medial meniscal injury" (n = 17). The following clinical scores were recorded: International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC), the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), Lysholm Score and Tegner Activity Score. To determine the degree of osteoarthritis the Kellgren-Lawrence score was used. (3) Results: The "isolated ACLR" study group scored significantly higher (p < 0.05) on the IKDC subjective questionnaire (mean: 88.4) than the "ACLR with medial meniscus injury" group (mean: 81). The KOOS category "activities of daily living" showed significantly better results in the isolated ACLR group (p < 0.05). The "ACLR with medial meniscus injury" group had significantly higher degree of osteoarthritis (p < 0.05). No significant differences were found in all the other clinical scores. (4) Conclusions: The results of this study further indicate that patients with a concomitant medial meniscus injury have slightly more discomfort in everyday life and increased risk of developing osteoarthritis 10 years after surgery.

Effects of Co-Curricular Activities on Academic Performance of Elementary School Students

Background: Co-curricular activities (CCAs) have been increasingly recognized for their pivotal role in enhancing both academic performance and overall student development. These activities complement traditional learning by fostering a range of skills crucial for personal and academic growth. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the effects of co-curricular activities on the academic performance of sixth-grade students at Government Girls High School Bharth, Sialkot, providing insights into how these activities influence educational outcomes. Methods: A quantitative, experimental design was employed involving 98 sixth-grade students who were randomly assigned to either the experimental (n=36) or control group (n=36). The intervention included various CCAs such as drama, quiz, painting, and sports over two months. Data were collected using pre- and post-tests from the Urdu textbooks, with the results analyzed using SPSS version 25 to conduct t-tests and calculate means and standard deviations. Results: The pre-test results showed no significant difference between the groups (experimental group mean=14.97, SD=2.560; control group mean=14.03, SD=2.667; p=.131). Post-intervention, the experimental group exhibited a significant improvement in scores (mean=16.69, SD=2.806) compared to the control group (mean=12.69, SD=3.206), with p&lt;.0001 indicating a substantial impact of CCAs on student performance. Conclusion: The study confirms that engagement in co-curricular activities significantly boosts academic performance among students, suggesting that such activities should be integral to educational curricula to promote comprehensive student development.

The effect of guided imagery pre-cesarean section on the perceived preoperative anxiety, surgical fear, and physiological parameters of women: A randomized controlled trial

IntroductionGuided imagery (GI) helps patients feel happy, relaxed, calm, and safe while ensuring positive thinking. This study was conducted to investigate the impact of GI applied before cesarean section (CS) on preoperative anxiety, surgical fear, and physiological parameters. MethodsParticipants were randomized into the GI (n = 29) or control (n = 28) groups in this randomized controlled trial. Participants in the GI group were given a 15-minute GI audio recording three days before their CS and were allowed to listen to it every night for 3 days until the CS. Finally, they listened on the day of the CS, immediately after preparing for the CS. Anxiety levels were evaluated using the State Anxiety Inventory-S (STAI-S) 3 days before the CS (STAI-S1) and 15 min after the preparations on the CS morning (STAI-S2); while surgical fear was evaluated using the Surgical Fear Questionnaire (SFQ) 3 days before the CS (SFQ1-Total) and 15 min after the preparations on the CS morning (SFQ2-Total). Blood pressure, temperature, heart rate, respiratory rate, and fetal heart rate were also evaluated. ResultsA significant difference in the mean STAI-S scores was observed 15 min after the preparations for the CS between the GI and control groups (mean difference (MD) -4.51, 95 % confidence intervals (CIs) [-7.71, -1.31]). However, no significant difference was found in the mean SFQ scores between the groups (MD -5.53, 95 %CIs [-16.69, 5.63]). In the within group comparison of GI and the control group, no statistically significant difference was observed in the score means of the GI group (STAI-S1 with STAI-S2 and SFQ1-Total with SFQ2-Total). However, the score means of the control groups STAI-S2 was higher than STAI-S1 (MD -5.82, 95 %CIs [-8.16, -3.48]), and SFQ2-Total was higher than SFQ1-Total (MD -6.71, 95 %CIs [-10.97, -2.46]). No significant difference was found in physiological parameters between the groups. ConclusionThis study revealed the effectiveness of GI during the period before CS in reducing preoperative anxiety and keeping surgical fear under control. Nurses and other healthcare professionals involved in preoperative care can utilize GI to reduce preoperative anxiety and manage surgical fear before a CS. Clinical trial registrationNCT05790954

Impact of economic growth and financial development on renewable energy use in selected oil-exporting countries

The aim of this study is to explore the influence of economic growth and financial development on renewable energy consumption. For the purpose of analysis, this investigation uses annual data on renewable energy consumption, economic growth, financial development, consumer price index, domestic investment, and foreign direct investment for 13 major oil-exporting countries, including Algeria, Guinea, Gabon, Iran, Libya, Nigeria, Congo, Republic of Venezuela, Saudi Arabia, Mexico, Malaysia, Sudan, and Russia, during the period 1990-2020. The study employs the Pooled Mean Group (PMG) method and Dumitrescu-Hurlin panel causality test to conduct the empirical analysis. The Hausman test determines the PMG estimator as the most suitable among the Mean Group (MG), Dynamic Fixed Effect (DFE), and PMG estimators. This research shows that economic growth and financial development have a positive and significant long-term impact on renewable energy consumption. This suggests that as the economy grows and financial systems develop, there is a potential for an increase in the use of renewable energy. The Dumitrescu-Hurlin causality test and the panel dynamic ordinary least squares (DOLS) method support these findings. From a policy standpoint, promoting economic growth and financial development could lead to greater use of renewable energy and contribute to sustainable development in oil-exporting countries.

Alterations in white matter integrity in Egyptian youth with smartphone dependence: does DTI have a role?

BackgroundSmartphones provide various functions that facilitate our communication, organization, and entertainment in different situations. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) is a method measuring tissue microstructure as well as white matter integrity of the brain and detecting early changes. Several research studies recently aim to utilize conventional MRI for assessing brain structural alterations among smartphone users, but our study was aimed at identifying the DTI value while assessing white matter alterations in Egyptian youth with smartphone dependence.ResultsOur prospective case–control study involved fifty-three individuals with smart phone dependence (SPD group) as well as twenty-five volunteers who represented the control group. SPD individuals and controls were right-handed. The SPD group mean age exhibited 20.54 ± 1.56 years, while controls exhibited 26.8 ± 15.1 years. When utilizing smart phone addiction scale-short version, SPD group median total score exhibited 33. The diagnostic performance of fornix (fractional anisotropy) FA and external capsule fractional anisotropy (EC FA) regarding area under curve (AUC) exhibited significant increase as opposed to all other tested regions, with a sensitivity of 90.6% as well as a specificity of 96%. While regarding the mean diffusivity (MD), the greatest (AUC) was for EC (0.927, p < 0.001), in which the MD value = 0.825 was the cutoff value and able to diagnose the smart phone dependency with a sensitivity of 92.5% as well as a specificity of 76%.ConclusionsQuantitative DTI parameters (FA, MD) in different white matter regions can diagnose and detect white matter changes in excessive smartphone users even when conventional MRI data are normal. This study demonstrates the recent noninvasive MRI technique value while revealing covered brain white matter alterations in Egyptian youth due to smartphone overuse.

It’s hard to be loved by idiots.Fred Perry’s troubled relationship with the Proud Boys

Research methodology For the design of this case study, the authors used primary sources of information from the shops visited by them in preparation of the case and website of Fred Perry and secondary sources of information from both academic and journalistic publications. Case overview/synopsis Fred Perry is a premium clothing brand, well-known for its polo shirts. It was created by Mr Fred Perry, a British tennis player. The brand’s stated values are integrity, personality and individuality. Throughout its history, the brand has been adopted by different British subcultures but recently it has faced a challenge because of the brand appropriation by the Proud Boys, a US far-right white supremacy group and other extremist groups as Antifa and hooligans. The nature and actions of the group mean that Fred Perry runs the risk of losing control over its brand equity. This brand hijack means that Fred Perry risks alienating some of its customers by openly opposing the group but also by embracing this subculture’s appropriation. Practically, the brand opposed the appropriation in a press release and by putting an end to the sale of the black and yellow polo shirts in the USA and Canada. Fred Perry has also made a lot of efforts to reposition the brand away from extremist groups while maintaining its strong historical and cultural roots. Through this case study, students will have the opportunity to discuss this topic and explore solutions for brands that face this type of dilemma. Complexity academic level This case is designed to be used in a marketing management, brand strategy or consumer behavior/culture course, especially in the subfield of market segmentation in the telecommunications sector. Specifically, this case is designed for college seniors or master students with basic strategic marketing training. This case will help students understand the difference between the brand identity that the brand owners intend and the brand image that consumers actually perceive. It provides the basis of discussions on the topics of brand management, consumer culture, consumers-brands relationships, brand architecture, brand equity, brand appropriation and repositioning strategy.

Impact of subjective and objective language function and psychological distress on quality of life in glioma patients awaiting surgery

ABSTRACT Background Maintaining quality of life (QoL) and identifying contributing factors is an important aspect of treatment for glioma patients. Little is known about to what extent language function and psychological distress impact QoL before surgery. Aims The aim of the present study was to investigate the impact of subjective and objective language function, as well as psychological distress on domains of QoL before surgery. Methods and procedures Twenty-seven patients (52% female) with a suspected glioma, grade 1‒3 based on symptoms and MRI imaging diagnostics were assessed pre-surgery. Subjective language concerns, psychological distress and QoL were investigated with self-reported questionnaires. A Subjective language index was calculated, based on items addressing word-finding, expression of thoughts, reading and writing. Objective language function was assessed with tasks of naming (The Boston Naming Test), verbal comprehension (Vocabulary and Similarities), verbal fluency (Semantic and Phonemic fluency) and verbal short-term and working memory (Digit span forward and backward). The strength of associations was determined using Spearman’s rho correlations. Linear regression analyses were used to examine predictors for QoL. Outcomes and Results Clinically significant reductions in QoL were found in 48% of the sample. Subjective language concerns were highly common, with 85% reporting some degree of difficulty. Group means on objective language tests were within normative range on the included measures. The Subjective language index correlated significantly with several QoL domains, whereas objective performance mainly correlated with functional well-being. Psychological distress was a strong predictor for QoL. Conclusions The findings demonstrate that reductions in QoL may occur during the diagnostic phase, even before glioma treatment starts. Subjective language concerns and psychological distress contributed to all aspects of QoL and highlight the importance of acknowledging patient-reported information. The results suggest a comprehensive multi-modal assessment of glioma patients pre-surgery, to establish a base-line and facilitate patient-centered treatment planning.

Hybrid Closed Wedge High Tibial Osteotomy Maintains the Leg Length After Surgery Compared With Open Wedge High Tibial Osteotomy.

This study aimed to assess the changes in leg length following open wedge high tibial osteotomy (OWHTO) and hybrid closed wedge high tibial osteotomy (h-CWHTO) and whether the change in leg length was associated with preoperative radiographic factors and the change in planned opening or closing width. We retrospectively evaluated the data of patients who underwent OWHTO (n=57) and h-CWHTO (n=31) between 2016 and 2019. Standing full-length anteroposterior radiographs were obtained preoperatively and one year postoperatively. Changes in the lower leg and tibial length were measured using radiography, and the planned opening or closing width was decided via operative planning. Flexion contracture was examined preoperatively and one year postoperatively using a goniometer, and the correlation factors and changes in leg length were analyzed using Spearman's rank correlation. In the OWHTO group, the lower leg was significantly longer by a mean of 6.0±8.7 mm compared to that preoperatively (p<0.01); however, no significant difference was observed in the h-CWHTO group (mean, -0.56±11.6 mm) (p=0.788). In the OWHTO group, flexion contracture did not improve after surgery, however, in the h-CWHTO group, flexion contracture significantly improved from -7.1±7.0 degrees to -4.7±6.2 degrees postoperatively (p<0.01). No radiographic factors or bone opening or closing width were associated with changes in leg length in both groups. OWHTO led to a significant elongation of the lower leg while leg length was maintained post-h-CWHTO. However, the changes in leg length following both OWHTO and h-CWHTO were not predictable from preoperative radiographic factors or changes in bone width.

Application of double plate fixation combined with Masquelet technique for large segmental bone defects of distal tibia: a retrospective study and literature review.

There is no effective consensus on the choice of internal fixation method for the Masquelet technique in the treatment of large segmental bone defects of the distal tibia. Thus, the study aimed to investigate the outcomes of the Masquelet technique combined with double plate fixation in the treatment of large segmental bone defects. This was a retrospective study involving 21 patients with large segmental bone defects of the distal tibia who were treated between June 2017 and June 2020. The length of bone defect ranged from 6.0cm to 11cm (mean, 8.19cm). In the first stage of treatment, following complete debridement, a cement spacer was placed to induce membrane formation. In the second stage, double plate fixation and autologous cancellous bone grafting were employed for bone reconstruction. Each patient's full weight-bearing time, bone healing time, and Iowa ankle score were recorded, and the occurrence of any complications was noted. All patients were followed up for 16 to 26months (mean, 19.48months). The group mean full weight-bearing time and bone healing time after bone grafting were 2.41 (± 0.37) months and 6.29 (± 0.66) months, respectively. During the treatment, one patient had a wound infection on the medial side of the leg, so the medial plate was removed. The wound completely healed after debridement without any recurrence. After extraction of iliac bone for grafting, one patient had a severe iliac bone defect, which was managed by filling the gap with a cement spacer. Most patients reported mild pain in the left bone extraction area after surgery. The postoperative Iowa ankle score range was 84-94 (P < 0.05). In this cohort, 15 cases were rated as "excellent", and 6 cases as "good" on the Iowa ankle scoring system. The Masquelet technique combined with double plate fixation is a safe and effective method for the treatment of large segmental bone defects of the distal tibia.

Home-Based Titration with Duodenal Infusion of Levodopa-Carbidopa Intestinal Gel in People with Parkinson's Disease: An Observational Feasibility Study.

Testing and titration of the right levodopa equivalent dose are usually performed during a hospital admission. However, optimal dose titration in people with Parkinson's disease (PwPs) may depend on home environment, emotional stress, and physical activity of everyday life. Firstly, to evaluate the feasibility and safety of a home-based LCIG titration program and patients'/caregivers' satisfaction. Secondly, to identify barriers and facilitators for home-based titration. This study assesses the feasibility and safety of home-based titration of levodopa duodenal infusions with the use of self-reported evaluation questionnaires with open-ended questions included, registration of total time used, and number of contacts/visits. A telemedicine solution was used to remotely monitor the patients, adjust treatment, and provide support and guidance to patients and caregivers. Ten of 12 PwPs (5 females and 7 males) completed the total titration program. Eight of the 12 PwPs were dependent on help. These 8 PwPs also had a high burden of nonmotor symptoms (NMS). Cognitive impairments varied in severity (range 16-30). Time spent with home visits was on average 93.4 minutes (ranging from 35 to 180 minutes), and the length of the total titration (LCIG initiation to termination of titration) was on average 3.4 days with 2-5 (mean 3.2) contacts/visits with PD team members. The average score on the satisfaction evaluation questionnaires was lower in the caregiver group (mean 31.8) than the PwP outcome (mean 36.2). Telehealth-assisted home-based titration programs are feasible due to the length of the titration period, number of contacts, and time spent in PwPs' private homes, are rated satisfactory and safe by PwPs and caregivers, and may be a substitute for in-hospital treatment. Clinical recommendations including facilitators and barriers from a patient/caregiver perspective are displayed. This trial is registered with NCT4196647.

Effectiveness of an articulating laparoscopic needle holder for cesarean scar defect repair.

To evaluate the efficacy of an articulating laparoscopic needle holder in laparoscopic surgery for cesarean scar defect. We performed a retrospective case-control study at the Shiga University of Medical Science. Patients who underwent laparoscopic uterine scar repair were divided into an articulating laparoscopic needle holder (ArtiSential®) group and a rigid needle holder (conventional) group to compare the suture and total operative times. Uterine myometrial suturing involves a double-layer interrupted suture, including a modified Gambee suture for the first layer. We measured the residual myometrial thickness using magnetic resonance imaging preoperatively and at 3 months postoperatively. Both groups comprised 10 patients each. The time per stitch for the first and second layers was significantly shorter in the ArtiSential group than in the conventional group (median 208 s vs. 403 s, p < 0.0001 and median 17 s vs. 29 s; p < 0.0001, respectively). The total operating time was significantly shorter in the ArtiSential group (mean 188 min vs. 240 min, p = 0.0015). The postoperative residual myometrial thickness (mean 9.1 mm in the ArtiSential group and 9.6 mm in the conventional group) was significantly higher than the preoperative residual myometrial thickness (mean 1.6 mm in the ArtiSential group and 1.6 mm in the conventional group) (p < 0.0001 in both groups). An articulating needle holder is useful in laparoscopic surgery for cesarean scar defect, especially when a modified Gambee suture is required.

Tranexamic acid reduces intraoperative red blood cell transfusion rates in craniosynostosis surgery: a 6-year retrospective analysis

Surgery for craniosynostosis in children is associated with substantial intraoperative bleeding and the need for blood transfusions. Recent studies have supported the efficacy of tranexamic acid (TXA) in reducing blood loss and transfusion requirements. The records of 72 patients under 18 months of age who had undergone 113 surgeries for non-syndromic craniosynostosis in a single institution for 6 years were retrospectively analyzed. The transfusion requirements in infants with and without TXA administration were compared. The concept of patient blood management before and after TXA implementation in practice was also examined. The rate of intraoperative packed red blood cells (PRBC) transfusion was significantly lower in the TXA than in the non-TXA group (26.7% vs. 83%, p < 0.001). The volume of intraoperatively transfused PRBC was also lower in the TXA group compared to the non-TXA group (mean 68.25 mL vs. 101.91 mL, p < 0.001), as was the weight-adjusted volume (mean 11.2 mL/kg vs. 15 mL/kg, p = 0.002). There were no significant differences in the rate and volumes of postoperative PRBC transfusion between groups. The volume of intraoperatively transfused PRBC was dependent on TXA administration, but not on the affected suture and type of intervention. We found that while in the pre-TXA period all patients were transfused intraoperatively, the frequency of intraoperative transfusions in the post-TXA period was reduced by 40.9% even in the patients who had not received TXA. TXA seems to effectively reduce the intraoperative transfusion requirements in children undergoing craniosynostosis surgery. The optimal blood management in this patient population remains to be further evaluated.

Revisiting openness-growth nexus: Panel data estimates for selected developing Asian countries

Trade openness is viewed as a way for Asian countries to progress economically and socially. Therefore, determining how trade affects economic growth is crucial for society, particularly for emerging economies. This paper provides empirical evidence on the issue of how openness to trade affects economic growth. A sample of 22 selected Asian countries has been taken as a balanced panel. To carry out the analysis, Auto Regressive Distributive Lag Model (ARDL) on annual data from 1990 to 2020 is used. To select between Pooled Mean Group (PMG) Mean Group (MG) and Dynamic Fixed Effect (DFE) estimators of ARDL, the Hausman test is used. PMG turns out as a better estimator. PMG estimation confirms that trade openness and economic growth exhibit a positive and statistically significant relation in the long run, however, short-run results lack significance. The study concluded with the recommendation that policymakers should adopt and implement an optimal trade policy. The optimal trade policy suggests the sample countries be more open to trade because it may result in higher long-run economic growth.

The Acute Effects of Ball Pressure on Anticipation Timing Following a Series of Purposeful Headers in Adult Football (Soccer) Players.

The purpose of this study is to investigate the acute effects of ball pressure on anticipation timing following a series of purposeful headers in adult football (soccer) players. There is evidence to suggest acute neurophysiological changes to the brain following purposeful heading; this may lead to altered anticipation timing as a result, potentially having future safety implications for players. A repeated measures crossover design was used. Seventeen participants aged between 20 and 30 years performed (i) 20 rotational headers with a lower-pressure match ball (58.6 kPa; 8.5 psi), (ii) 20 rotational headers with a higher-pressure match ball (103.4 kPa; 15 psi), or (iii) 20 non-headers (kicks) as a control each on separate days. The effect of ball pressure on anticipation timing accuracy, measured as absolute, constant, and variable errors, was assessed before and immediately after each intervention session using an anticipation timing task. Differences between group means were compared using repeated measures ANOVA and linear mixed effects models, with p-values of <0.05 considered statistically significant. No significant differences in anticipation timing accuracy across interventions were detected between control, occluded, and non-occluded trials. This finding differs from the previous literature regarding the measurable, acute effects of purposeful heading. The anticipation timing task may lack sensitivity for detecting the effects of repeated heading on brain function.

Role of cancer ratio (serum LDH/pleural ADA) and carcinoembryonic antigen in diagnosis of malignant pleural effusion

Abstract Background Pleural effusion may be malignant or nonmalignant, Cytology has been used in malignant pleural effusion (MPE) diagnosis due to its high specificity. Its sensitivity is about 0.6. Cancer ratio (CR) and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) may be used in MPE diagnosis. Aim Evaluate the role of CR and CEA as diagnostic markers of MPE and their role in differentiating different types of MPE. Patients and methods This cross-sectional study included 70 patients with pleural effusion admitted to Chest Department, Kasr Alainy Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University. Thirty-five patients had benign pleural effusions and 35 patients had MPE. Pleural fluid sample obtained from each patient for ADA, CEA, and serum LDH. CR and pleural fluid CEA were compared between patients with MPE and those with benign effusion. Results CR was statistically significantly higher in the malignant group (mean 23.66 ± 7.75) compared with benign group (mean 14.47 ± 11.42) with P value less than 0.001. CR cut-off value was 19.79, the sensitivity and specificity were 74.3 and 82.9%, respectively. Pleural fluid CEA had higher levels in malignant group (mean 104.78 ± 262.7) compared with benign group (mean 2.08 ± 2.49) with P value less than 0.001. The cut-off value of CEA was 3.4 U/l with sensitivity 74.3% and specificity 94.3%. Pleural fluid CEA was significantly higher in metastatic adenocarcinoma (mean 154.58 ± 314.53) compared with other types of malignancy (mean 9.34 ± 17.98) with P value less than 0.001. Conclusion CR and CEA could be used together as simple screening tests in cytology negative MPE with high specificity and sensitivity. CEA was significantly higher in metastatic adenocarcinoma compared with other types of malignancy and could be used to differentiate different types of MPE.

Cytotoxic effect of dental luting cement on human gingival mesenchymal stem cell and evaluation of cytokines and growth factor release - An in vitro study.

In routine dental care, various dental luting cements are utilized to cement the dental prosthesis. Thus, the aim of the current study was to assess the Cytotoxic effect of three different dental luting cements on human gingival mesenchymal stem cell and evaluation of cytokines and growth factors release. Cytotoxicity of glass ionomer cement (GIC), resin modified glass ionomer cement (RMGIC) and resin cement (RC) on the human gingival mesenchymal stem cells (HGMSCs) was evaluated. Amongst the cements tested, least cytotoxic cement was further tested for the release of cytokines and growth factors. MTT test was used to evaluate the cytotoxicity of the dental luting cements at 1 h, 24 h, and 48 h on HGMSCs. Cytokines such as interleukin (IL) 1α & IL 8 and growth factors such as platelet derived growth factor & transforming growth factor beta release from the least cytotoxic RC was evaluated using flow cytometry analysis. The mean absorbance values by MTT assay and cell viability at various time intervals between four groups were compared using a one way analysis of variance test and Tukey's post hoc test. The least cytotoxic RC group and the control group's mean levels of cytokines and growth factors were compared using the Mann-Whitney test. As exposure time increased, the dental luting cement examined in this study were cytotoxic. RC was the least cytotoxic, RMGIC was moderate and glass ionomer cement showed the highest cytotoxic effect. Concomitantly, a significant positive biological response of gingival mesenchymal stem cells with the release of ILs when exposed to the RC was observed. For a fixed dental prosthesis to be clinically successful over the long term, it is imperative that the biocompatibility of the luting cement be taken into account in order to maintain a healthy periodontium surrounding the restoration.

Comparative evaluation of the remaining dentin volume following instrumentation with rotary, reciprocating, and hand files during root canal treatment in primary molars: An ex vivo study

Background/purposeThe effectiveness of root canal treatments with different file systems in primary teeth is important in terms of clinical practice and the use of file systems that work with different principles in primary tooth pulpectomy is becoming widespread. The amount of remaining dentin in the coronal region of the root is important in terms of the prognosis of the tooth and the long-term success of the treatment in teeth that have undergone root canal treatment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the remaining dentin volume in the coronal part of the root after the use of rotary, reciprocating, and conventional hand files in primary tooth pulpectomy. Materials and methodsA total of 30 primary molars were divided into three groups. In each group, the preparations were made with three different file types: WaveOne Gold, which works with reciprocating motion; TruNatomy, which works with rotational motion; and conventional hand files. The three-dimensional images were evaluated for remaining dentin volume in the 2-mm coronal part of the root. Group means were compared using one-way analysis of variance, and post hoc analyses were performed with the Tukey test. ResultsThere was no statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of preoperative and postoperative dentin volume (P > 0.05). The mean difference after preparation was observed the most in the WaveOne Gold group and the least in the TruNatomy group. When the mean percentage differences were evaluated, it was observed that statistically significantly more dentin volume was preserved after the preparation with TruNatomy than with WaveOne Gold (P = 0.021). ConclusionIn primary tooth pulpectomy, file systems working with rotational motion can be preferred over file systems working with reciprocating motion in preserving the amount of dentin in the 2-mm coronal part of the root.

Bayes Optimal Integration of Social and Endogenous Uncertainty in Numerosity Estimation.

One of the most prominent social influences on human decision making is conformity, which is even more prominent when the perceptual information is ambiguous. The Bayes optimal solution to this problem entails weighting the relative reliability of cognitive information and perceptual signals in constructing the percept from self-sourced/endogenous and social sources, respectively. The current study investigated whether humans integrate the statistics (i.e., mean and variance) of endogenous perceptual and social information in a Bayes optimal way while estimating numerosities. Our results demonstrated adjustment of initial estimations toward group means only when group estimations were more reliable (or "certain"), compared to participants' endogenous metric uncertainty. Our results support Bayes optimal social conformity while also pointing to an implicit form of metacognition.

Role of Beta Trace Protein and Cystatin C as a Potential Biomarker for Early Detection of Type 2 Diabetic Nephropathy

Background: One of the most well-known diabetic microvascular consequences is diabetic nephropathy, which affects 40 percent of people with diabetes mellitus type 2. It develops into end stage renal disease, and diabetes biomarkers can be used as a predictor. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the concentration levels of serum Beta Trace Protein and serum Cystatin C in all stages of diabetic nephropathy disease. Subjects And Methods: A Case- control study included 120 Persons (30-persons appeared healthy as control and 90 patients proved with T2DM of both gender (64 males and 56 females), split into four groups by using urinary micro-albumin and albumin to creatinine ratio (UACR) as following: group-I: includes 30persons as a healthy control (UACR &lt; 30 mg/g creatinine). Group-II: includes 30patients with type2 DM normoalbuminuria (UACR &lt; 30 mg/g creatinine) as a positive control. Group-III: includes 30 patients with type 2 DM microalbuminuria (UACR 30 – 300 mg/g creatinine). Group-IV: includes 30 patientsا with type 2 DM macroalbuminuria (UACR˃ 300 mg/g creatinine), all groups with ages ranges between (40-69) years. in allا groups, Beta Trace Protein and Cystatin C quantitative enzyme immunoassay (double-antibody sandwich), calculated in serum and both biomarkers using the same methods. Results: Patients with diabetes have statistically substantially increased blood levels of Beta trace protein and Cystatin C. with macro-albuminuria groups in comparison to micro-albuminuria, normo-albuminuria and healthy control in addition, the mean for the micro-albuminuria group was greater than for the healthy control and normo-albuminuria groups. Conclusion: A rise in blood Beta trace protein and Cystatin C levels in the early nephropathy group microalbuminuria, which may be used as a predictor for early diagnosis of diabetic nephropathy.

The Effect of Graded Activity and Pain Education After Lumbar Spinal Fusion on Sedentary Behavior 3 and 12 Months Postsurgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial

ObjectivesTo examine the effect of an early postsurgical intervention consisting of graded activity and pain education (GAPE) in patients with chronic low back pain (CLBP) undergoing lumbar spinal fusion (LSF) on sedentary behavior, disability, pain, fear of movement, self-efficacy for exercise and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) at 3-, 6-, and 12 months follow-up. DesignA parallel-group, observer-blinded randomized controlled trial. SettingDepartment of Occupational- and Physiotherapy and the Centre for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Rigshospitalet, Denmark. ParticipantsIn total, 144 participants undergoing an LSF for CLBP were randomly assigned to an intervention or a control group. InterventionsThe intervention group received 9 sessions of GAPE, based on principles of operant conditioning. Main Outcome MeasuresThe primary outcome was reduction in time spent in sedentary behavior, measured by an accelerometer at 3 months. The secondary outcomes were reduction in time spent in sedentary behavior at 12 months and changes from baseline to 3-, 6-, and 12 months on disability, pain, fear of movement, self-efficacy for exercise, and HRQoL. ResultsNo difference in changes in sedentary behavior between groups was found 3 months after surgery. At 12 months after surgery, there was a significant difference between groups (mean difference: −25.4 min/d (95% confidence interval −49.1 to −1.7)) in favor of the intervention group. ConclusionsCompared with usual care, GAPE had no effect on short-term changes in sedentary behavior but GAPE had a statistical, but possibly not clinical significant effect on sedentary behavior 12 months after LSF. Further, the behavioral intervention was safe to perform.