Retraction Notice:The authors have requested retraction following the identification of errors in the data.Reference:Xian Wang, Shan Wu Feng, Fuzhou Wang, Shiqin Xu, Modeled Behavioral Evaluation of the Neuropathic Pain with Social Defect in Rats:A Preliminary Methodology Evaluation. Med Sci Monit Basic Res. 2014; 20: 164-169. DOI: 10.12659/MSMBR.892615.
BACKGROUND Acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocation is a common shoulder injury, with a range of suture button techniques available for treatment. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical outcomes of a novel suture button technique - the FengChao button technique. MATERIAL AND METHODS Between December 2019 and December 2021, 25 patients with AC joint dislocation were treated using the arthroscopic triple FengChao button technique. Clinical outcomes measured included UCLA and CMS scores, operative time, and the incidence of complications. Radiological assessment focused on the coracoclavicular (CC) distance. RESULTS The follow-up period ranged from 6 to 19 months, with an average of 13.3 months. One patient required an open revision due to postoperative trauma. The mean operative time was 52.34±13.76 minutes. The UCLA score improved significantly from a preoperative average of 19.32±2.45 to 31.67±2.38 at the final follow-up (P<0.05). Similarly, the CMS score increased from 75.23±2.34 preoperatively to 92.73±2.96 at the final follow-up (P<0.05). The CC distance narrowed from a preoperative measurement of 21.34±1.32 mm to 9.23±1.13 mm 2 to 4 days postoperatively (P<0.05), and further to 11.93±1.03 mm at the final follow-up (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS The arthroscopic triple FengChao button technique for AC joint dislocation offers satisfactory short-term functional outcomes.
BACKGROUND This study aims to explore the therapeutic mechanisms of Jinshuiqing (JSQ) in IgA nephropathy (IgAN) using transcriptomic analysis and animal experimentation. MATERIAL AND METHODS Six-week-old male C57BL/6 mice (20±2 g) were divided into 2 groups: IgAN model and JSQ-treated. The IgAN model was induced in SIRT3 knockout mice with acidified BSA, CCl4, castor oil, and LPS injections. The IgAN group received saline, while the JSQ group was treated with JSQ (4 g/kg/day) for 11 weeks. Following euthanasia, kidney tissues were collected for transcriptomic analysis. RNA extraction and sequencing were performed, followed by differential gene expression and pathway enrichment analysis to assess JSQ's effects. RESULTS PCA and correlation analysis showed distinct differences between the JSQ-treated and control groups. Differential gene expression identified 118 genes with significant changes, indicating that JSQ induces transcriptional alterations. Gene ontology (GO) and KEGG enrichment analyses revealed that JSQ affects pathways related to inflammation, oxidative stress, and metabolism, suggesting its potential to improve kidney function and regulate immune responses in IgAN. CONCLUSIONS JSQ treatment modulates gene expression in IgAN mice, influencing pathways linked to inflammation, gut microbiota, and kidney function. These findings provide insight into how JSQ alleviates inflammation and promotes renal health, offering genetic evidence for its therapeutic efficacy in IgAN.
BACKGROUND Childhood asthma, especially in the youngest children, is difficult to diagnose and is often based on the patient's symptoms. This study compared metabolite concentrations in serum samples between 13 children with asthma and IgE-dependent allergy and 10 without asthma and IgE-dependent allergy, aged between 6 months and 5 years. MATERIAL AND METHODS The study included a total of 23 children. The targeted metabolomic analysis was performed using an AbsoluteIDQ p180 kit and analyzed using a triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometer coupled with a high-performance liquid chromatograph. Statistical analyses included univariate tests and univariate and multivariate receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. RESULTS Of the 188 metabolites, 131 were determined in the samples. Additionally, 48 sums and ratios of metabolites were calculated. Significant differences (P<0.05) were found for the 6 metabolites of sphingolipids and glycerophospholipids and ratio serotonin synthesis. Multivariate ROC curve analysis was performed for phosphatidylcholine 40: 4 and serotonin synthesis ratio, which were selected based on the univariate ROC curve analysis results. This combined indicator's area under the curve (AUC) demonstrated greater sensitivity and specificity than the individual variables. CONCLUSIONS Our study sheds new light on differences in serum metabolite concentrations between patients under 5 years of age with asthma and IgE-dependent allergy and patients without asthma or IgE-dependent allergy. A multiclassifier integrating PC 40: 4 and serotonin synthesis ratio is a promising biomarker for diagnosing childhood asthma with IgE-dependent allergy, facilitating faster, more precise, and personalized diagnosis and treatment of pediatric patients.
BACKGROUND Due to their good differentiation abilities, human periodontal ligament stem cells (hPDLSCs) and tissue engineering treatment modalities are used to treat bone defects due to periodontitis. This in-vitro study aimed to determine the effects of different melatonin concentrations on the viability of cultured periodontal ligament stem cells. MATERIAL AND METHODS Cultured hPLDSCs were treated with different melatonin concentrations. The study groups were divided into 9 concentration-based groups: Group 1, untreated hPDLSCs; Group 2, hPDLSCs exposed to physiological doses of melatonin (1 μM); Group 3, hPDLSCs exposed to 10 μM melatonin; Group 4, hPDLSCs exposed to 20 μM melatonin; Group 5, hPDLSCs exposed to 30 μM melatonin; Group 6, hPDLSCs exposed to 40 μM melatonin; Group 7, hPDLSCs exposed to 50 μM melatonin; Group 8, hPDLSCs exposed to 100 μM melatonin; Group 9, hPDLSCs exposed to 150 μM melatonin. Cell viability was evaluated at 14 and 21 days using the AlamarBlue (AB) Cell Viability Assay, a toxicity assay. RESULTS Melatonin had a positive effect on hPDLSC viability in all test groups. A general pattern of decreasing cell viability with increasing melatonin concentrations was observed, with Groups 8 and 9 showing the lowest viability. An abrupt pattern was detected in Groups 4 and 7, where a sudden, significant increase in cell viability was observed, in contrast with the general observed pattern. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, the hPDLSCs remained viable when exposed to the melatonin doses used, under osteogenic media, except for the 100µM and 150 µM melatonin groups. Therefore, further studies are required with hPDLSCs exposed to different concentrations of melatonin.
BACKGROUND Midazolam, a commonly used sedative, faces challenges in cancer therapy due to its central nervous system (CNS) toxicity and suboptimal targeting of tumor sites. This study explores the use of poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles to enhance the delivery of Midazolam, aiming to improve antitumor efficacy while minimizing CNS toxicity. MATERIAL AND METHODS We developed Midazolam-loaded PLGA nanoparticles (Midazolam PLGA NPs) using the ultrasonic emulsification-solvent evaporation technique. These nanoparticles were thoroughly characterized for particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, encapsulation efficiency, drug loading, and stability. We assessed cellular uptake and cytotoxicity via the MTT assay, while organ accumulation was quantified using high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS). The safety profile was evaluated by monitoring body weight changes in A549 tumor-bearing mice. RESULTS The Midazolam PLGA nanoparticles exhibited a spherical shape, uniform size, high encapsulation efficiency, and excellent colloidal stability. In vitro release studies indicated that 62.51% of Midazolam was released within 24 hours. Enhanced cellular uptake was noted for the nanoparticles in comparison to the solution, with significant accumulation at tumor sites and increased free drug release. The nanoparticles effectively killed tumor cells while sparing normal tissues, demonstrating superior antitumor activity compared to the Midazolam solution. Importantly, treated mice maintained stable body weight, suggesting a favorable safety profile. CONCLUSIONS Midazolam-loaded PLGA nanoparticles present a promising approach for targeted cancer therapy. They enhance encapsulation, stability, and selective tumor cell cytotoxicity, resulting in greater antitumor efficacy with minimal adverse effects compared to conventional Midazolam solutions.
BACKGROUND Raynaud's syndrome, a vascular dysfunction disorder characterized by paroxysmal spasms of small arteries in the extremities, has long attracted attention in the medical field. Despite the absence of a comprehensive understanding of its etiology, this condition is considered to be associated with impaired vascular endothelial function, neuromodulation disorders, and genetic factors. MATERIAL AND METHODS We conducted an analysis of data from 110 eligible patients, with approval from the Ethics Committee of our hospital. We assessed medical records, the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) scores, and adverse events linked to relapse. Survival analyses were carried out using the Kaplan-Meier method. Univariate and multivariate analyses were employed to identify factors associated with RD and to construct a prognostic line chart for postoperative recurrence. RESULTS In the 6-month survival analysis model, the following factors demonstrated statistical significance in multivariate analysis: primary disease (HR: 1.718; 95% CI: 1.044-2.829), surgical approach (HR: 0.454; 95% CI: 0.272-0.760), perfusion index difference (HR: 0.870; 95% CI: 0.76-0.994), and peripheral temperature difference (HR: 0.755; 95% CI: 0.615-0.928). In the 1-year survival analysis model, statistically significant factors in multivariate analysis included primary disease (HR: 1.881; 95% CI: 1.125-3.145), surgical approach (HR: 0.489; 95% CI: 0.291-0.821), perfusion index difference (HR: 0.866; 95% CI: 0.759-0.989), and peripheral temperature difference (HR: 0.757; 95% CI: 0.618-0.928). CONCLUSIONS Independent risk factors for postoperative recurrence of Reynaud's syndrome include the primary disease, surgical approach, changes in perfusion indices, and changes in peripheral temperature.
BACKGROUND For patients with end-stage renal disease, arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) are often used for hemodialysis, but stenosis can impair their function. Traditional inpatient procedures to address AVF stenosis are effective but resource-intensive, prompting the need for alternative approaches like day surgery to optimize care and reduce costs. This study evaluated the feasibility of a day surgery model for AVF stenosis treatment in maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) patients, aiming to develop a cost-effective and high-quality care model. MATERIAL AND METHODS A prospective cohort study was conducted with 186 MHD patients undergoing AVF stenosis intervention between July 2022 and May, 2023. Patients were divided into a day surgery group (n=112) and a ward group (n=74). Various preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative parameters were recorded, including AVF patency, complications, and rehospitalization rates. Follow-up assessments were conducted on postoperative days 1, 3, 7, and 30, with long-term patency evaluated at 6 and 12 months. RESULTS The day surgery group achieved a technical success rate of 99.11% and a complication rate of 3.57%, compared to 97.30% and 1.35% in the ward group. The day surgery group also had significantly shorter waiting times for beds, shorter hospital stays, and lower hospitalization costs (P<0.01). No significant differences were found between the groups in preoperative or postoperative parameters. CONCLUSIONS The day surgery model for AVF stenosis intervention in MHD patients is a viable option, showing comparable success and complication rates to inpatient surgery while significantly reducing hospital stays and costs.
Background: Dietary supplements (DS) are increasingly popular worldwide, with 78% of Polish adults reporting their use, and nearly half using them regularly. The wide availability, selection, and affordability contribute to this prevalence. However, misinformation and potential health risks from incorrect usage highlight the importance of health literacy in making informed choices about DS. This study aims to assess the knowledge and practices related to dietary supplement use among Polish patients. Material/Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in 2024 on a representative sample of 1,074 Polish adults, excluding healthcare professionals, using the computer-assisted web interview method. The questionnaire assessed respondents' understanding of DS, sources of information, purchasing habits, and consultations with healthcare professionals. Results: Most respondents (71.79%) believed they understood what a dietary supplement is. Women and individuals with higher education were more likely to claim understanding (p=0.001, p<0.00001). The Internet was the most common information source (38.64%), followed by mass media and healthcare professionals. Women and older respondents more often consulted doctors and pharmacists (p=0.002, p=0.004). Brick-and-mortar pharmacies were the preferred purchasing location (61.64%), with men more likely to use online pharmacies (p=0.0002). Conclusions: The study indicates high awareness of dietary supplements among Polish adults, with significant differences based on gender and education. Despite the Internet being a major information source, healthcare professionals remain crucial for informed decision-making. Efforts are needed to enhance public health literacy and ensure safe DS use.
Background: Adult intussusception (AI) is a rare condition with diverse clinical presentations and management challenges. Despite its rarity, understanding its epidemiology, clinical features, and predictive factors distinguishing benign and malignant lead points is crucial for effective management. This study aimed to assess the demographic and clinical characteristics of patients with pathological AI and examine factors associated with malignant lead points. Material/Methods: Medical records of patients aged >18 years with diagnosis of AI between January 1, 2014, and January 1, 2024 were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were classified based on location and etiology of intussusception. Predictive factors for malignant lead points were assessed, including age, sex, presenting symptoms, location, and size of intussusception. Computed tomography (CT) scan images were reviewed for diagnosis confirmation. Transient small bowel intussusceptions and intussusceptions related to feeding tubes were excluded. Results: Twenty-six cases of pathological AI were identified over 10 years, with a male predominance (69.2%) and a mean age of 53.3 years. Abdominal pain was the most common presenting symptom (65.4%), with bowel obstruction diagnosed in 23.1% of cases. CT scans were the primary diagnostic modality (92.3%). Colocolic intussusceptions were most prevalent (53.8%), and surgical management was common (69.2%). Histopathological examination revealed benign lead points in the majority (57.7%) of cases, with lipomas and polyps being the most common. Bleeding per rectum was significantly associated with malignant lead points (P=0.011). Conclusions: AI presents with diverse clinical features. It predominantly affects the colon. Bleeding per rectum indicates a higher likelihood of malignant lead points. A multidisciplinary approach is essential for optimal case-based management.
Background: The development and progression of prostate cancer are multistep processes involving several growth factors, hormones, and cytokines. This study aimed to measure the serum concentrations of different cytokines and determine their correlation with prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels and disease grade in patients with prostate adenocarcinoma. Material/Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from March 2023 to March 2024 at the Clinic of Oncology of the University Hospital Center in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina. Altogether, 50 male patients with prostate adenocarcinoma were included, of whom 28 had no proven metastases (PC group) and 22 had metastatic disease (MPC group). Serum concentrations of total (tPSA), free (fPSA), and complexed (cPSA) PSA were determined using a chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay, whereas serum concentrations of cytokines were measured using a flow cytometry bead-based assay. Results: The MPC group had higher serum tPSA, fPSA, and cPSA levels than the PC group. The PC group had significantly higher serum levels of monocyte chemotactic protein (MCP)-1 than the MPC group (P=0.008). In the PC group, serum levels of interleukin (IL)-10 significantly correlated with cPSA. In the MPC group, serum concentrations of IL-1(3, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-a, and IL-23 significantly correlated with disease grade. Conclusions: Our study emphasizes the importance of MCP-1 in the development of prostate cancer, while IL-10 was the only cytokine whose serum level significantly correlated with cPSA. Serum concentrations of IL-1(3, TNF-a, and IL-23 may serve as potential biomarkers for disease grade.
BACKGROUND Intravenous ciprofol is a short-acting sedative with minimal respiratory and circulatory suppression and limited analgesia. Intravenous lidocaine provides analgesia during surgical procedures. This study included 70 patients who underwent gastroscopy with analgesia and aimed to evaluate the effects of intravenous lidocaine on the dose of ciprofol required to produce 50% of the maximal effect (ED50). MATERIAL AND METHODS Seventy patients scheduled for elective painless gastroscopy were randomly assigned into 2 groups: group L (n=35, received ciprofol and 1.5 mg/kg lidocaine) and group S (n=35, received ciprofol and normal saline). The primary outcomes measured were the ED50 and the 95% effective dose (ED95) of ciprofol, determined using the modified up-down sequential method and Probit analysis. Secondary outcomes included induction, operation, and recovery times; monitoring of vital signs such as mean arterial pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation; and evaluation of postoperative adverse reactions, including sore throat, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and satisfaction scores from endoscopists and anesthesiologists. RESULTS The ED50 of ciprofol in group L was 0.315 mg/kg (95% CI, 0.291-0.342 mg/kg), which was significantly lower than that in group S, 0.42 mg/kg (95% CI, 0.371-0.491 mg/kg). Additionally, group L exhibited shorter induction and recovery times, a lower incidence of postoperative sore throat, and a temporary drop in blood pressure following induction. CONCLUSIONS Intravenous lidocaine during painless gastroscopy reduces the required ciprofol dose, shortens induction and recovery times, and lowers the incidence of postoperative complications, such as sore throat. These findings support its effective role in improving sedation quality and patient outcomes during gastroscopy.
Background: Modern prosthetic technologies make it possible to fabricate prosthetic restorations without material loss and to make prosthetic restorations with complex geometric shapes in a relatively simple way. One such technology is selective laser melting (SLM), or additive manufacturing of metal materials, better known as 3D printing from metal or selective laser melting, but currently the most commonly used method is casting. The present study investigated use of dental chromium-cobalt alloys for prosthetic bridges and compared methods of processing dental chromium-cobalt alloys to obtain the best mechanical properties. Material/Methods: We used dental chromium-cobalt alloy (SCHEFTNER GMBH) for laser melting StarbondCoSEeasy Powder with grain size of 10-30 mu m and StarbondCoS alloy casting, made in accordance with the European standard EN ISO 22674. SLM-made specimens and induction melted alloy castings were prepared for the study. A centrifugal casting system with induction current melting of the metal alloy was used to produce the samples. The melting and casting process is automatic and limits changes in chemical composition. Results: The results show that none of the samples changed their chemical composition, while the samples made by SLM had better mechanical properties. Conclusions: The SLM technique makes it possible to produce restorations faster and cheaper without any loss of quality compared to restorations made with the casting technique. Casting technology reduces mechanical properties, but still provides good mechanical properties.
Long COVID, or post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), also known as post-COVID-19 condition or post-COVID syndrome, can affect anyone infected with SARS-CoV-2, regardless of age or the severity of the initial symptoms of COVID-19. Long COVID/PASC is the continuation or development of new symptoms after three months from the initial SARS-CoV-2 infection, which lasts for at least two months and has no other identifiable cause. Long COVID/PASC occurs in 10-20% of patients infected with SARS-CoV-2. The most common symptoms include fatigue, cognitive impairment (brain fog), and shortness of breath. However, more than 200 symptoms have been reported. No phenotypic or diagnostic biomarkers have been identified for developing long COVID/PASC, which is a multisystem disorder that can present with isolated or combined respiratory, hematological, immunological, cardiovascular, and neuropsychiatric symptoms. There is no cure. Therefore, individualized patient management requires a multidisciplinary clinical approach. Because millions of people have had and continue to have COVID-19, even in the era of vaccination and antiviral therapies, long COVID/PASC is now and will increasingly become a health and economic burden that the world must prepare for. Almost five years from the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, this article aims to review what is currently known about long COVID/PASC, the anticipated increasing global health burden, and why there is still an urgent need to identify diagnostic biomarkers and risk factors to improve prevention and treatment.
Background: Anterior reduction disc displacement (ARDD) of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) can present with pain and clicking of the jaw when chewing. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between articular eminence cortication (AEC) and mandibular condyle cortication (MCC) in 81 patients with ARDD of the TMJ using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) imaging. Material/Methods: We examined images of 142 patients who applied to the outpatient clinic between 2022 and 2024 for various reasons and whose radiographic records included CBCT and MRI images. Sixty-one patients who did not meet the inclusion criteria were excluded from the study. MRI images of the remaining 81 patients were analyzed and evaluated for the presence of ARDD. Subsequently, all mandibular condylar processes and articular eminences included in the study were examined by CBCT and the degree of cortication was classified and noted. The relationship between MCC and AEC and ARDD was evaluated with the SPSS 23.0 program (SPSS, Results: ARDD was observed in 46 (28.4%) of 162 condyles examined. Type 1 cortications were observed in 8 (17.4%), type 2 in 36 (78.3%), and type 3 in 2 (4.3%) of the condyles with disc displacement; 80.0% (8) of type 2 cortications were found in patients with ARDD (P<0.001), and 75.0% of type 3 cortication was observed in intact Conclusions: This study shows that loss of AEC and MCC may be a significant factor in the diagnosis of ARDD, and decreased AEC and MCC may be a criterion for the diagnosis of ARDD.
Background: Technetium (99mTc)-labelled Methoxy-2-Isobutylisonitrile (MIBI) is a diagnostic lipophilic cationic radiotracer used to evaluate the cardiac, breast, thyroid, and parathyroid pathology. This study aimed to evaluate the role of MIBI combined with Tc-99m pertechnetate thyroid scintigraphy, thyroid ultrasonography, and measurement of thyrotropin, thyroid hormones, and autoantibodies to subtype amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis (AIT) and the contribution of semi-quantitative analysis of MIBI uptake. Material/Methods: This cross-sectional study included 36 patients with AIT who underwent thyrotropin, thyroid hormone, and autoantibody analysis using chemiluminescent method, ultrasonography, pertechnetate, and MIBI thyroid scintigraphy with semi-quantitative uptake, including calculation of the target-to-background ratio (TBR) with 2 different background regions. The MIBI washout rate (WR) was analyzed in all groups. Statistical analysis was performed using descriptive statistics, correlations, and the receiver operating characteristic curve - area under the curve (ROC-AUC). The results were compared with the control group. Results: Based on visual and semi-quantitative analyses, patients were successfully categorized into AIT groups (AIT-1, AIT-2 and AIT-3) but the latter method enabled better differentiation of MIBI uptake between all groups. Additionally, ROC-AUC analysis determined cutoff values which enabled discerning between AIT-1 and AIT-2 groups, and AIT-1 and AIT-3 groups. WR showed no significant difference between all AIT groups and controls (P>0.05). Conclusions: Visual MIBI analysis enabled differentiation between AIT-1 and 2 groups, but the method was substantially improved with semi-quantitative analysis, especially in defining AIT-3 group. However, multicenter collaboration with larger studies is needed to standardize the method and obtain more accurate and consistent results.
BACKGROUND Healthcare providers, particularly in dentistry and medicine, experience high stress levels, exacerbated by factors like patient anxiety, clinical work, and continuous training. The COVID-19 pandemic has further increased these risks. This study aimed to assess depression, anxiety, and stress (DAS) among dental and medical practitioners in Saudi Arabia, investigating influential factors on their psychological behavior. MATERIAL AND METHODS In this cross-sectional study conducted in July and August 2021, the depression, anxiety, and stress scale (DASS-21) was administered through a Google questionnaire. Data analysis involved stepwise mode modeling and bivariate analysis, with a significant P value <0.05, using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences. RESULTS The study included 376 dentists and 201 medical practitioners. Most worked more than four days a week, slept under six hours nightly, and were non-smokers. DAS scores indicated depression (51.7-57.4%), anxiety (50.7-58.2%), and stress (54.2-60.1%). Significant differences (P<0.05) were observed among younger, single, female, and lower-income participants. Higher DAS scores correlated with less sleep, extensive social media use, and smoking history. Socio-demographic factors were mostly non-significant for medical practitioners, except social media use. Sleep duration significantly impacted stress levels, while specialty, income, and marital status influenced depression CONCLUSIONS DAS levels were notably higher in dentists compared to medical practitioners, particularly regarding anxiety. The impact of socioeconomic factors varied, being more statistically significant for dentists.
BACKGROUND Urogenital bacterial infections have a high incidence in humans. The most frequent cause of infections of the urogenital tract is gram-negative bacteria. Antibiotics are very effective in curing infectious diseases but they are accompanied by health complications. Probiotics are live microorganisms that are believed to confer a beneficial effect on human health when consumed in adequate amounts. This study aimed to compare outcomes from antibiotic treatment with and without the use of probiotics in 897 patients with lower urogenital tract infections, including cystitis, urethritis, prostatitis, and vulvovaginitis. MATERIAL AND METHODS A total of 897 patients aged 18 to 55 years were included in this research. Patients were divided into an intervention group including 460 patients (254 women, 206 men) and a comparison group including 437 patients (240 women, 197 men). The probiotics received by patients were capsules of ProBalans®. The diagnosis of cystitis, urethritis, prostatitis, vulvovaginitis, and sexually transmitted infection was done using several tests, and antibiotics were used for treatment. Qualitative data were analyzed using the chi-square or Fisher exact test. RESULTS We found a significant difference regarding patients' impressions of improvement after therapy between patients in the intervention group and the comparison group. CONCLUSIONS Use of probiotics together with antibiotics in the treatment of urogenital tract infection can help to reduce the adverse effects of antibiotics, increase the efficiency of antibiotic therapy, and reduce bacterial resistance to antibiotics. However, further research is needed to confirm these potential health benefits.
BACKGROUND Cosmetics are applied topically to enhance appearance and are commonly used by women of all ages. Cosmetics contain many chemical agents, but the incidence of adverse reactions is low, possibly due to underreporting. This questionnaire-based study included 392 women to evaluate information on the types of cosmetics purchased between December 2018 and March 2019, their use by the women surveyed, and their associated adverse events. MATERIAL AND METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted among 392 women in Abbottabad, Pakistan, using a pre-structured and validated questionnaire to evaluate information on the types of cosmetics, their use, and their associated adverse events. Part 1 of the study collected information about demographics. Part 2 contained a total of 11 items, and collected the frequency of use of cosmetic on skin and hair care products. Part 3 consisted of 4 items and collected information about problems encountered due to the use of cosmetics. RESULTS In the winter season, 47.7% (n=187) of women preferred chemical-based cosmetic products, while 30.9% (n=121) preferred Ayurvedic products. Among commonly used cosmetic products, 26.9% (n=106) of women used foundations. The most frequently used skin care product was face wash 39.5% (n=155). The most prevalent adverse events related to cosmetics were pimples (19.9%, n=78), redness (17.6%, n=69), and eye discomfort (15.8%, n=62). Furthermore, 51.3% (n=201) strongly agreed that cosmetics aid in getting a whiter complexion. CONCLUSIONS The survey concluded that most women preferred cosmetics with a chemical base, which are associated with rashes, redness, and acne. It is important to encourage cosmetovigilance and awareness campaigns among cosmetic product sellers and users.
BACKGROUND Replicating the 3-dimensional (3D) color of natural teeth in artificial substitutes is challenging. Fixed dental prosthodontics require aesthetic, color-stable provisional restorations. Recent milling and 3D printing digital manufacturing techniques offer improved outcomes. This study assesses color stability in various digital manufacturing methods, tapers, and aging effects on anterior provisional resin restorations. MATERIAL AND METHODS Two all-ceramic tooth preparations on typodont teeth with 10° and 20° tapers were converted into experimental dies. Forty temporary crowns were manufactured using 3D printing and computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (milling). Within these 2 groups, 10 crowns were cemented using a regular and clear provisional cement. All samples were thermocycled to simulate clinical use of 6 months. Color difference formula (CIEDE2000) indicated changes between before and after cementation (ΔE00) and between after cementation and after thermocycling (ΔE00[II]). The color change was considered significant in terms of clinically perceptible (ΔE00 ≤0.62) and acceptable (ΔE00 ≤2.62) changes. One-way ANOVA (P value of less than 0.05) calculated overall differences, which were established using a Fisher post hoc test. RESULTS Crowns cemented with clear cement showed fewer color changes irrespective of the manufacturing technique or taper. Notably, only the 10° 3D-printed crown with clear cement had an imperceptible color change at the pre-/post-cementation phase. Meanwhile, the 10° and 20° milled crowns with regular cement exhibited unacceptable color changes after thermocycling. CONCLUSIONS For long‑term temporization in the aesthetic zone, properly optimized 3D-printed provisional restorations cemented with clear cement had better color stability.
