BMC Research Notes最新文献

Objective: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) disproportionately affects socially disadvantaged individuals. While tumor stage and liver function predict survival, biologic stress from chronic adversity, measured by allostatic load (AL), may provide additional prognostic insight. We aimed to evaluate the association between AL and mortality in patients with HCC and assess whether health literacy (HL) modifies this relationship.

Results: We conducted a secondary analysis of 139 adults with HCC at two hospitals in Indianapolis (2019-2022). AL was calculated from six physiologic biomarkers, with scores ≥ 3 indicating high AL. HL and cumulative social disadvantage were measured using validated tools. Higher AL (HR 1.27; 95% CI 1.05-1.55) and lower HL (HR 1.83; 95% CI 1.10-3.05) were independently associated with mortality. After adjustment, AL remained significant but was attenuated when HL was included. Stratified analyses showed that AL predicted mortality only among patients with high HL. These exploratory findings suggest AL may help identify higher-risk patients, warranting validation in prospective, multi-center studies.

Introduction: The indigenous knowledge of bonesetters and the practice of bone setting has contributed a lot to the modern medicine, and yet serving as primary source of care in low- and middle-income countries but got little attention. This study explored the indigenous knowledge of traditional bonesetters and bone-setting practice in Southwest Ethiopia.

Methods: A mixed study design approach was done in southwest of Ethiopia, from August 15 to December 15, 2022. A total of 80 traditional bonesetter who predominantly manage injury and disorder to the bone and the musculoskeletal, and also health professionals were interviewed regarding their traditional knowledge and range of practice.

Result: The mean age of the study participant was 69 ± 6 and majority (99%) of them were male. Traditional bonesetters participated in this study primarily acquired their knowledge through family transmission (45%), spiritual belief or divine gift (30%), and observation or experience (25%). Qualitative interviews revealed three themes: transgenerational learning, spiritual grant often linked to twin births, and experiential practice. Most TBSs had over 20 years of experience treating fractures, dislocations, and sprains, mainly at home or via mobile visits. Diagnostic methods included history-taking, palpation, and inspection. Treatment relied on massage, splinting, and natural materials like leaves, butter, and animal skin. All TBSs emphasized that healing power resides in their hands, often viewed as a divine gift.

Conclusion: Traditional bonesetters in Southwest Ethiopia possess rich indigenous knowledge rooted in family heritage, spiritual beliefs, and experiential learning. Their practices reflect deep cultural traditions and community trust, often passed down through generations or revealed through personal experience. Despite limited formal training, they demonstrate diagnostic skill and therapeutic effectiveness using locally available materials. Massage and splinting remain central to their treatment approach. Recognition and documentation of these practices are essential to preserve Ethiopia's healing heritage. Future collaboration with formal healthcare could enhance integration and mutual learning.

Objective: In Endodontics, the primary objective of regenerative treatment is to revitalize the pulpo-dentinal complex of immature permanent teeth, promote continued root development, and achieve complete closure of the open apical terminus. Traditionally, apexification has been performed using conventional pulp space therapy for all non-vital immature permanent teeth. In this study, after rubber dam isolation and local anesthesia, routine endodontic procedures were initiated. Access cavity preparation was followed by biomechanical preparation using ProTaper hand files (size F3). Irrigation was carried out with 3% sodium hypochlorite, and two rounds of intracanal calcium hydroxide dressing were placed. At subsequent visits, the dressing was removed, the canals were dried with absorbent points, and an amniotic membrane scaffold (Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, India) was positioned at the apex for two weeks. The entire pulp space was then obturated with Biodentin, and composite resin was used for post-endodontic restoration.

Results: Apexification protocols were followed in ten adult non-vital permanent teeth with open apices. Clinical and radiographic evaluations demonstrated satisfactory healing. The amniotic membrane appeared to contribute to apical closure within two weeks and showed no adverse effects. It may represent a promising scaffold material for apexification in developing non-vital permanent teeth.

Trial registration number: Current Controlled Trials CTRI/2025/11/097852 [Registered on 21/11/2025].