Medical Science Monitor最新文献

BACKGROUND Studies on the emotional labor of caregivers of elderly people with dementia and disabilities are rare. This study aimed to investigate the emotional labor of caregivers of elderly patients with dementia and disabilities in a psychiatric hospital in China and to propose measures to improve emotional labor of the caregivers. MATERIAL AND METHODS Convenience sampling was used in this study. A questionnaire survey was conducted with the caregivers from the Department of Geriatrics, Chengdu Psychiatric Hospital in May 2021. A total of 73 questionnaires were distributed, and 69 valid questionnaires were returned. Descriptive analysis was performed on the frequency and intensity of emotional labor, using minimum value, maximum value, mean, and standard deviation. An independent-sample t test and one-way analysis of variance were performed on the frequency and intensity of emotional labor between different individuals and groups. RESULTS Statistically significant differences (P<0.05) were identified in surface acting among caregivers by sex, age, educational attainment, and monthly income. A statistically significant difference (P<0.05) was identified between deep acting and emotional expression by marital status. A statistically significant difference (P<0.05) was identified between surface acting and deep acting by the number of elderly patients the respondent was taking care of. No statistically significant differences were identified by the form of contract and job position (P>0.05). CONCLUSIONS Heavy emotional labor and negative emotions widely existed among caregivers of the elderly patients with dementia and disabilities in the psychiatric hospital. More training on emotional labor shall be provided for the caregivers.

BACKGROUND Obesity is described as excessive fat accumulation. Almost 47% of pregnant women gain more weight than recommended. The prevalence of obesity doubled from 2007 to 2018 (10.5% to 21.8%) in Indonesia. An increase in body mass index (BMI) before pregnancy is associated with delayed labor and vaginal delivery failure. Women with overweight or obesity in pregnancy are at increased risk of developing gestational hypertension and gestational diabetes, resulting in the induction of labor or elective cesarean section. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between pre-pregnancy BMI and outcomes from induction of labor in 248 women during 1 year at a hospital in Purwokerto, Indonesia. MATERIAL AND METHODS The study was conducted at Margono Soekarjo General Hospital and involved all pregnant women delivered between 2023 and 2024. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied. Total number of pregnant women was 248, BMI used Asian parameters, induction of labor was performed with oxytocin or misoprostol, and outcomes were according to the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics. The design was a case-control study. Statistical analysis performed using IBM SPSS Statistics version 29.0.1.0 was used to analyze odds ratio and chi-square test. RESULTS This research study revealed pregnant women with obesity had statistically significant higher odds, with an odds ratio of 3.78 (95% CI 1.53-9.31, P=0.002), of labor induction failure than did those without obesity. CONCLUSIONS The findings from this study showed that increased BMI in pre-pregnancy significantly increased the risk of failure of labor induction.

BACKGROUND Lumbar degenerative diseases, such as lumbar disc herniation, cause significant pain and neurological deficits. Traditional surgeries like posteriior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) have drawbacks, including extensive tissue damage. We sought to evaluate the efficacy of unilateral biportal endoscopy (UBE) compared with PLIF, with a focus on clinical outcomes and complication rates. MATERIAL AND METHODS This retrospective study (January 2020 to January 2023) included 109 patients with lumbar degenerative diseases; 53 treated with UBE and 56 with PLIF. We followed Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) guidelines with ethical approval. The statistical analyses used t-tests and Chi-square tests (P<0.05). RESULTS The UBE group showed significantly shorter surgery times (107.3±11.2 minutes) and less intraoperative blood loss (50.2±5.7 mL) compared with the PLIF group (113.5±15.7 minutes; 91.3±9.0 mL). Postoperative pain reduction was greater in the UBE group, with a mean Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score of 3.50±0.85 vs 4.10±0.95 in the PLIF group (P<0.001). The UBE group also had better lumbar function recovery, with higher Japanese Orthopaedic Association scores (19.80±2.30 vs 17.20±2.05; P<0.001). The incidence of postoperative complications was lower in the UBE group (5.67%) compared with the PLIF group (14.29%), although this difference was not statistically significant (P=0.14). CONCLUSIONS UBE could offer significant clinical efficacy in treating lumbar degenerative diseases. It may improve surgical outcomes, reduce postoperative pain, and present a favorable safety profile. These findings suggest UBE might be a viable, minimally invasive option, promoting better recovery and fewer complications.

Acne vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory disease of the hair follicle-sebaceous gland unit and is the most common skin disorder worldwide. Although it can occur at any age, it predominantly affects young individuals, manifesting as comedones, papules, pustules, cysts, and nodules, primarily in the sebaceous-rich areas of the face, often in a symmetrical distribution. The development of acne vulgaris is believed to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors, including sun exposure, skincare habits, diet, sleep patterns, and psychological stress, all of which can induce or exacerbate the condition. The pathogenesis of acne vulgaris involves androgen-induced sebaceous gland hyperplasia, excessive sebum production, abnormal follicular duct keratinization, microbial colonization, and immune-inflammatory responses. Historically, treatment has focused on regulating sebum production, improving follicular keratinization, and providing antibacterial and anti-inflammatory therapies, with less attention given to repairing the skin barrier. Treatment outcomes have often been suboptimal, with frequent recurrences, high incidence of skin sensitivity, and significant economic and psychological burdens on patients. This review explores the mechanisms of skin barrier impairment in acne vulgaris and discusses strategies for its repair, offering new perspectives for the clinical management of acne.

BACKGROUND This systematic review aimed to evaluate literature on the use and reliability of extraoral facial scanning/extraoral scanning in capturing 3D geometry in association with intraoral evaluation for dental prostheses fabrication. MATERIAL AND METHODS Two independent reviewers performed a systematic database search of PubMed-Medline, Web of Science, Embase, and Scopus with MeSH terms (keywords), including "extraoral Scanner", "facial scanner", "intraoral scanner", and "dental prosthesis" to identify studies on extraoral facial scanning/extraoral scanning reliability in association with intraoral evaluation measurements (from January 1, 2012 to June 1, 2024). The study was registered with International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO CRD42024544106) and followed the PRISMA statement. The focused question was "Does data obtained from extraoral facial scanning/extraoral scanning provide a reliable guideline in association with intraoral evaluation for dental prostheses fabrication?" The main measure used to assess reliability was the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Risk of bias was assessed using Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT). RESULTS Out of 1066 studies, 8 studies were included based on eligibility criteria. The studies showed that extraoral facial scanning/extraoral scanning captured 3D geometry of tissues with a high ICC, indicating excellent consistency and accuracy. Elevated ICC values (ICC >0.75; range 0.75-0.99) indicated that these systems possess the ability to consistently reproduce facial geometries, which is a critical factor in fabricating precise and comfortable prostheses using intraoral scanners. CONCLUSIONS The study findings support that extraoral facial scanning/extraoral scanning can be combined with intraoral evaluation and digitized workflow to provide high-quality dental prosthetics.

The liver serves as a crucial organ for detoxification and exhibits a robust regenerative capacity. The improper administration of pharmaceuticals frequently results in drug-induced liver injury (DILI), a condition closely associated with the overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS). In addressing DILI, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) often employs plant-based remedies, which have demonstrated favorable therapeutic outcomes. These plant-based treatments are typically rich in antioxidants capable of neutralizing ROS. However, there is a notable lack of comprehensive reviews that synthesize the therapeutic effects of antioxidants derived from medicinal plants on DILI. The present review starts by exploring ROS generation and clearance in human health, then outlines DILI characteristics and treatments, emphasizing its strong link to oxidative stress. Furthermore, we discuss the properties and classification of antioxidants found in plant-based pharmaceuticals, with a particular emphasis on the synergistic effects of these antioxidants and their mechanisms for repairing DILI. Finally, we provide a summary of commonly utilized medicinal plants from TCM for the treatment of DILI. In conclusion, this article explores the future prospects and potential solutions for treating DILI using antioxidants found in plant-based drugs derived from TCM. The objective of this review is to examine the role of antioxidants in TCM and their impact on DILI.

BACKGROUND Tubal infertility caused by proximal occlusion of fallopian tubes is a common cause of female infertility. Lipiodol (ethiodized oil) is an oil-based iodinated contrast medium, previously used in hysterosalpingography, and is now used as a therapeutic agent. This single-center study aimed to evaluate the experience of outcomes from the use of Lipiodol in 96 women with infertility due to fallopian tube occlusion. MATERIAL AND METHODS In total, 96 women with infertility caused by tubal obstruction, confirmed in hysterosalpingography and/or laparoscopy, who underwent tubal recanalization followed by Lipiodol injection were enrolled. Information regarding the reproductive outcome at a minimum of 6 months following the treatment was collected by a telephone survey or direct contact. Pregnancy rate was calculated. RESULTS Average age on admission was 33±4.1 years. In most cases (79%, 76/96), infertility was primary. Average duration of infertility was 2.8 years. Comorbidities included endocrinopathies and endometriosis. Complete patency was achieved in 96% of cases (92/96 patients). In 4 cases (4%), distal occlusion of 1 ovary was observed, resulting in partial procedural success. Tubal catheterization was needed in 29 patients (30%). No procedural complications were noted. Thirty-four patients conceived, resulting in a 35.8% pregnancy rate. Miscarriage was noted in 5 patients, and tubal ectopic pregnancy in 1 patient. No long-term complications were reported. CONCLUSIONS Our results show that use of oil-based contrast for tubal recanalization is safe and effective treatment for proximal tubal occlusion, with a relatively high pregnancy rate (36%). Further studies are required to fully discover its potential benefits.

BACKGROUND Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) causes serious bacterial illnesses from consuming undercooked meat and foods contaminated with feces. This study aimed to describe the characteristics of an STEC outbreak associated with hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) that emerged in Turkey and affected 21 adults. MATERIAL AND METHODS The medical records of 21 adult patients who were admitted to Ankara Bilkent City Hospital Internal Medicine Intensive Care Department with the diagnosis of HUS between July and September 2022 were retrospectively evaluated through the system. RESULTS While a positive correlation was detected between the length of hospital stay and N-terminus pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and troponin during hospitalization, a negative correlation was detected with glomerular filtration rate (GFR). Patients requiring plasmapheresis had higher creatinine, amylase, and LDH values at the time of admission. In patients given eculizumab, high NT-proBNP and creatinine levels and low GFR levels at the time of admission were found to be statistically significant. The use of antibiotics before admission did not change the length of hospital stay. CONCLUSIONS A statistically significant difference was detected between LDH, GFR, troponin, NT-proBNP parameters, and length of hospital stay. Creatine and LDH values of patients requiring eculizumab and plasmapheresis at the time of admission were found to be statistically high. It should be kept in mind that eculizumab and plasmapheresis treatment can be required for patients with elevated creatine and LDH at the time of admission.

BACKGROUND This study used an edentulous mandibular resin model with 6 parallel osteotomy sites and aimed to compare the accuracy (trueness and precision) of 10 digital impressions using 3 intraoral scanners, the 3Shape TRIOS 5, Medit i700, and Primescan, using Medit Link v3.3.2 software. MATERIAL AND METHODS A model simulating a patient's lower jaw was surgically prepared at 6 parallel sites (implant osteotomy), allowing placement of 6 implant analogues. Matrix-Direct transfer abutments were attached to the analogs, and a reference scan was obtained using a CeramilMap 600 extraoral scanner. Three intraoral scanners (3Shape TRIOS 5, Medit i700, and Primescan) made 10 digital impressions of each model. The data obtained were superimposed and compared using software (Medit Link 3.3.2) to evaluate accuracy. Mean values were statistically analyzed using one-way ANOVA and post hoc Tukey test. Differences were considered significant at a P value of less than 0.05. RESULTS The TRIOS 5 intraoral scanner displayed the lowest deviation for precision (37.8±4.53 μm) and trueness (54.9±11 μm), followed by Medit i700 (precision 40.6±4.17 μm, trueness 60.5±10.9 μm), whereas the highest deviation (precision: 49.1±8.31 μm, trueness: 72.3±10.4 μm) was reported when Primescan intraoral scanner was used for recording impressions of full arch implants. When the 3 intraoral scanners were compared, a statistically significant difference was observed in terms of precision (P<0.005) and trueness (P<0.005). CONCLUSIONS TRIOS 5 intraoral scanner displayed the lowest deviation values for precision and trueness (more accurate), followed by Medit i700 and Primescan intraoral scanners. However, deviation values of all scanners were within clinically acceptable limits.

BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to identify the changes in the levels of total oxidant status (TOS) and total antioxidant status (TAS) in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) samples of patients treated with conventional brackets (CBs) and clear aligners (CAs) over a 30-day period. MATERIAL AND METHODS Thirty-four patients who received non-extraction treatment with either CBs or CAs were included in the study. GCF samples were obtained at baseline (T0) and on days 7 (T1) and 30 (T2) following initial phase of treatment. Clinical periodontal parameters were used to determine periodontal conditions of patients. ELISA method was used to determine TAS and TOS levels in GCF samples. RESULTS In the group treated with CAs, TOS levels in GCF were significantly high at T1 but approached T0 after the first month (T2) of treatment. In contrast, the group treated with CBs showed significantly high TOS levels in GCF at both T1 and T2 compared with T0. No significant changes were observed in GCF TAS data at T1 and T2 in either group (CA and CB), compared with T0. When comparing TOS data between the groups at T1 and T2, the CA group had lower TOS levels than the CB group (Mann-Whitney U with Bonferroni correction). Additionally, the CA group had lower periodontal clinical indexes than did the CB group. CONCLUSIONS Oxidative tissue damage during orthodontic teeth movements may be lower with CA treatment. In cases in which higher oxidative stress is anticipated, CA treatment may be preferred over CB treatment.