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11 pages, 429 KiB  
Systematic Review
Measuring the Marginal Gap of Pre-Cemented All-Metal Single Crowns: A Systematic Review of In Vitro Studies
by James Dudley and Taseef Hasan Farook
Dent. J. 2025, 13(5), 204; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj13050204 - 2 May 2025
Viewed by 1040
Abstract
Background: Different methods have been used to fabricate and measure marginal gap in all-metal crowns, yet a systematic review on this topic has not been conducted. Objective: To review the existing literature regarding the measurement methods employed for the in vitro marginal gap [...] Read more.
Background: Different methods have been used to fabricate and measure marginal gap in all-metal crowns, yet a systematic review on this topic has not been conducted. Objective: To review the existing literature regarding the measurement methods employed for the in vitro marginal gap measurement of pre-cemented all-metal single crowns and examine the influence of crown fabrication method on the marginal gap. Materials and Methods: A systematic search was performed from December 2024 backwards across EBSCO Host, Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science databases following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and predefined eligibility criteria. The quality of included articles was evaluated using the Joanna Briggs Critical Appraisal Checklist. Results: Ten studies, involving 180 crowns, assessed marginal gaps using computerised superimposition (102 µm), scanning electron microscopy (89 µm), profilometry (100 µm), photogrammetry (59 µm), impression replica techniques (124 µm), and direct view microscopy (35 µm). Marginal gaps varied across crowns constructed with cobalt–chromium (97 µm), titanium (56 µm), noble metals (127 µm), and base metal alloys (35 µm). No significant differences (t = 1.06, p = 0.315) were observed between CAD/CAM (103.21 ± 58.56 µm) and lost wax casting method (71.59 ± 43.94 µm) of crown fabrication when analysed using an independent t-test. Conclusions: Cobalt–chromium was the most used material for AMCs, while titanium alloys produced the lowest mean marginal gap per crown. No significant differences in reported marginal gaps were observed between crowns fabricated using lost wax casting and CAD/CAM techniques. However, the limited number of studies, variation in measurement methods, and inconsistency in methodological rigour restricted the generalisability of the findings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Dental Materials)
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11 pages, 1239 KiB  
Systematic Review
The Influence of Tranexamic Acid (TXA) on Postoperative Infection Rates Following Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA)—A Systematic Review
by Radu Prejbeanu, Mihail Lazar Mioc, Eleftherios Tsiridis, Eustathios Kenanidis, Federico Valli, Andrea Pasquini and Bogdan Deleanu
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(9), 2910; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14092910 - 23 Apr 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 566
Abstract
Background: Tranexamic acid (TXA) has become a cornerstone in total hip arthroplasty for reducing blood loss and minimizing transfusion requirements. However, its influence on postoperative infection rates, including surgical site infections and periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs), remains a topic of debate. This systematic [...] Read more.
Background: Tranexamic acid (TXA) has become a cornerstone in total hip arthroplasty for reducing blood loss and minimizing transfusion requirements. However, its influence on postoperative infection rates, including surgical site infections and periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs), remains a topic of debate. This systematic review aims to explore the association between tranexamic acid use and infection rates in total hip arthroplasty. Methods: Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines, an electronic search was performed in the PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane, and Epistemonikos databases. A PICO-based question was developed to select relevant studies, which were assessed for quality using the MINORS tool for non-randomized studies and the RoB 2 tool for randomized controlled trials (RCTs). This review critically appraises three studies, including one RCT and two retrospective cohort studies. Results: Of 277 studies identified, 3 met inclusion criteria, totaling 146,227 patients. Findings indicate that tranexamic acid is generally associated with reduced periprosthetic joint infections and surgical site infection rates, with some variability based on administration routes and dosages. Despite these promising results, methodological limitations in the included studies underscore the need for further high-quality research to establish optimal tranexamic acid protocols. Conclusions: In summary, this systematic review indicates that TXA could reduce postoperative infection rates following total hip arthroplasty (THA). Further well-designed randomized controlled trials are required to validate these findings and determine the best dosing and administration strategies. PROSPERO registration: CRD42024589078. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Management of Prosthetic Joint Infection (PJI))
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15 pages, 594 KiB  
Review
A Scoping Review of Educational and Training Interventions on Parkinson’s Disease for Staff in Care Home Settings
by Stacey Finlay, Tara Anderson, Elizabeth Henderson, Christine Brown Wilson, Patrick Stark, Gillian Carter, Matthew Rodger, Mihalis Doumas, Emma O’Shea, Laura Creighton, Stephanie Craig, Sophie Crooks, Arnelle Gillis and Gary Mitchell
Nurs. Rep. 2025, 15(1), 20; https://doi.org/10.3390/nursrep15010020 - 13 Jan 2025
Viewed by 1194
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a complex neurodegenerative disorder that presents significant challenges for care home residents and staff. This scoping review aimed to synthesize evidence on PD education and training available to care home staff, examine existing programs and their effectiveness, and [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a complex neurodegenerative disorder that presents significant challenges for care home residents and staff. This scoping review aimed to synthesize evidence on PD education and training available to care home staff, examine existing programs and their effectiveness, and identify gaps in current educational approaches. Methods: A scoping review (ScR) was conducted and guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis extension for ScR (PRISMA-ScR) checklist. A comprehensive search of six electronic databases was conducted in September 2024. Studies focusing on PD education and training for care home staff were included. Data extraction and quality appraisal were performed, followed by thematic analysis to identify key patterns and themes. Results: Seven studies met the inclusion criteria. The thematic analysis revealed four main themes: improvements in PD knowledge and confidence, improvements in care practices and outcomes, the need for increased specialist education, and the incorporation of communication training. Educational interventions led to significant improvements in staff knowledge, confidence, and care practices. However, these studies also highlighted a critical need for more specialized PD training among care home staff. Conclusions: This review provides evidence of promise regarding the potential impact of PD-specific education on care home staff knowledge and practices. Future research should focus on developing and evaluating comprehensive, tailored educational programs to enhance the quality of care for people with PD in care home settings. Full article
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17 pages, 1045 KiB  
Systematic Review
The Influence of an Intense Training Regime in Professional and Non-Professional Athletes on Semen Parameters: A Systematic Review
by Francesca Greco, Giovanni Guarascio, Elisa Giannetta, Francesco Pio Oranges, Federico Quinzi, Gian Pietro Emerenziani and Maria Grazia Tarsitano
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(1), 201; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14010201 - 1 Jan 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2462
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Male infertility is influenced by physiological factors like age, as well as lifestyle factors, including physical activity. However, the specific impact of sport activity on semen parameters, and thus on male fertility, remains unclear. Specifically, the aim of this systematic review [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Male infertility is influenced by physiological factors like age, as well as lifestyle factors, including physical activity. However, the specific impact of sport activity on semen parameters, and thus on male fertility, remains unclear. Specifically, the aim of this systematic review is to evaluate how an intense regime of training may affect sperm parameters in professional and non-profession athletes. Methods: Studies reporting sperm parameters associated with high training load were included. In April 2024, three electronic databases and literature sources (PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) were searched. Quality appraisal was performed independently by three authors using the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Quality Assessment Tools (NHLBI-QAT). Results: Four studies met the inclusion criteria, reporting a total of 156 participants. Sixteen weeks of intensive cycling training produced a significant decrease in seminal volume, sperm concentration, sperm motility, and morphology, with a return to their initial levels, except for sperm morphology and sperm concentration, after at least one week of rest. In addition, in athletes with varicocele, a 6-month stop from sports activity went a long way toward improving sperm concentration and sperm motility. However, DNA fragmentation, a greater presence of round cells, and high numbers of active macrophages were described. At least 30 days improve semen parameters in professional and non-professional athletes. Conclusions: Intensive training could worsen seminal parameters and, consequently, male fertility. However, certainty of evidence is very low, and the results should be interpreted with caution. Full article
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23 pages, 1252 KiB  
Systematic Review
The Relationship Between Gut Microbiota, Muscle Mass and Physical Function in Older Individuals: A Systematic Review
by David J. Barry, Sam S. X. Wu and Matthew B. Cooke
Nutrients 2025, 17(1), 81; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17010081 - 28 Dec 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3131
Abstract
Background: Recent evidence suggests that sarcopenia and subsequent changes in muscle mass and functional outcomes are linked to disruption to the gastrointestinal microbiota composition and/or function via the microbiota-gut-muscle axis. Despite growing interest, few studies have systemically analysed (1) the relationship between the [...] Read more.
Background: Recent evidence suggests that sarcopenia and subsequent changes in muscle mass and functional outcomes are linked to disruption to the gastrointestinal microbiota composition and/or function via the microbiota-gut-muscle axis. Despite growing interest, few studies have systemically analysed (1) the relationship between the gut microbiota, muscle mass and physical performance and (2) the effects of gut-modulating dietary interventions on these outcomes within older individuals with or without sarcopenia. Methods: Four electronic databases (PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase and Scopus) were searched for articles published from the year 2004 until July 2023. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) were followed. Revised Cochrane Risk of Bias (RoB 2.0) and Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal checklist were utilised to evaluate the risk of bias within intervention and observational studies, respectively. Results: A total of 20 studies (14 observational and 6 interventional) involving 4071 older participants (mean age 69.9 years, 51.6% female) were included. There was significant heterogeneity regarding interventions and outcome measures used in these studies. Correlations between microbiota diversity and composition and sarcopenia-related functional outcomes were observed. Interventional studies targeting the gut microbiota resulted in improved muscle strength, body composition or physical function in some, but not all, studies. Conclusions: Despite limitations in the studies reviewed, the findings provide further evidence that the development of sarcopenia is likely influenced by an altered gut microbial environment and that interventions targeting the microbiome could hold therapeutic potential for the treatment or management of sarcopenia. Full article
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35 pages, 2257 KiB  
Review
Prognostic and Predictive Determinants of Colorectal Cancer: A Comprehensive Review
by Horia T. Cotan, Radu A. Emilescu, Cristian I. Iaciu, Cristina M. Orlov-Slavu, Mihaela C. Olaru, Ana M. Popa, Mariana Jinga, Cornelia Nitipir, Oliver Daniel Schreiner and Romeo Cristian Ciobanu
Cancers 2024, 16(23), 3928; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16233928 - 23 Nov 2024
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3341
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a significant global health burden, necessitating a thorough understanding of prognostic and predictive factors to enhance patient outcomes. This systematic review aims to comprehensively evaluate prognostic and predictive determinants in CRC, encompassing both traditional and emerging biomarkers. A systematic [...] Read more.
Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a significant global health burden, necessitating a thorough understanding of prognostic and predictive factors to enhance patient outcomes. This systematic review aims to comprehensively evaluate prognostic and predictive determinants in CRC, encompassing both traditional and emerging biomarkers. A systematic search of major electronic databases was conducted to identify relevant studies published from 1995 up to 2024. Eligible articles were critically appraised, and data extraction was performed according to predefined criteria. The prognostic determinants examined included clinicopathological features such as tumor stage, grade, and lymph node involvement, as well as molecular biomarkers including RAS, BRAF, and MSI status. Predictive determinants encompassed biomarkers influencing response to targeted therapies and immunotherapy, such as HER2 and Immunoscore. The review also explores novel prognostic and predictive markers, including tumor microenvironment characteristics and liquid biopsy-based biomarkers. Synthesizing evidence from diverse studies, this review provides insights into the prognostic and predictive landscape of CRC, highlighting the potential clinical implications of identified determinants. Understanding the multifaceted nature of prognostic and predictive factors in CRC is imperative for the advancement of personalized treatment strategies and improvement of patient outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cancer Causes, Screening and Diagnosis)
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31 pages, 1085 KiB  
Article
Appraising the Role of Strategic Control in Financial Performance: The Mediating Effect of the Resource Allocation Process—The Case of the Ministry of Finance–North Lebanon
by Basma Bchennaty, Muhammad Nauman Khan, Mazen Massoud and Tamima Elhassan
Int. J. Financial Stud. 2024, 12(3), 90; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijfs12030090 - 10 Sep 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 4582
Abstract
This paper aims to appraise the influence of strategic control tactics on financial performance. The goal is to examine the mediating effect of the resource allocation process on the relationship between financial performance and five strategic control tactics. A quantitative hypothetico-deductive methodology was [...] Read more.
This paper aims to appraise the influence of strategic control tactics on financial performance. The goal is to examine the mediating effect of the resource allocation process on the relationship between financial performance and five strategic control tactics. A quantitative hypothetico-deductive methodology was used in this study. A basic random sample of the Ministry of Finance–North Lebanon’s workforce was used to conduct an electronic questionnaire. A total of 232 valid responses were collected. Two statistical analysis methods, an exploratory and a confirmatory factor analysis, were implemented. The sample adequacy was confirmed by a KMO value higher than 0.7 before instigating the principal component analysis (PCA). The latter kept more than 60% of the initial data while structuring the data. The findings of the KMO and Barlett tests supported the adoption of PCA. The correlation matrix confirmed a statistically significant relationship between resource allocation, financial success, and strategic control techniques. The structural equation model (SEM) validated the linear correlations and statistical significance between the variables. The hypotheses were examined. Results confirmed that the model satisfactorily fits the data. The RMSEA is below the 0.05 threshold. The incremental indices are higher than 0.9. Results confirmed that the resource allocation process mediates the relationship between preventive control, operational control, special alert control, implementation control, and financial performance. Full article
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17 pages, 879 KiB  
Systematic Review
Maxillary Sinus Augmentation with Autogenous Tooth Grafting Material: A Systematic Review
by Diba Ghodsian, Sofía D’Jesús, Luis Sánchez-Labrador, Carlos Manuel Cobo-Vázquez, Jorge Cortés-Bretón Brinkmann, José María Martínez-González and Cristina Meniz-García
Biomimetics 2024, 9(9), 518; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9090518 - 29 Aug 2024
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2192
Abstract
The aim of this systematic review was to determine whether autogenous tooth grafting material (ATGM) is as safe and effective as other bone substitutes used for maxillary sinus augmentation procedures, evaluating histomorphometric and/or histological data, implant primary stability, associated complications and radiographic bone [...] Read more.
The aim of this systematic review was to determine whether autogenous tooth grafting material (ATGM) is as safe and effective as other bone substitutes used for maxillary sinus augmentation procedures, evaluating histomorphometric and/or histological data, implant primary stability, associated complications and radiographic bone height measurements. An automated electronic search was conducted using four databases (Medline/PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Cochrane Library), supplemented by a manual search, to identify clinical human studies using particulate ATGM for the aforementioned procedure. The included studies had a sample size of at least four patients and were published before 31st July 2024. The Newcastle–Ottawa scale (NOS) and Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal Checklist were used to assess the risk of bias in cohort studies and case series, respectively. Seven studies were included in the descriptive analysis, obtaining 128 participants (46.8% only treated with ATGM) and 192 placed implants. Due to the heterogeneity of the studies, meta-analysis could not be performed. The authors concluded that ATGM appears to be a feasible and safe alternative for maxillary sinus augmentation procedures. These results should be interpreted with caution due to the limited amount of scientific evidence on this topic and the heterogeneity between the included studies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioinspired Materials for Tissue Engineering)
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15 pages, 1247 KiB  
Systematic Review
The Effectiveness of Curcumin Nanoparticle-Coated Titanium Surfaces in Osteogenesis: A Systematic Review
by Nandita Suresh, Matti Mauramo, Tuomas Waltimo, Timo Sorsa and Sukumaran Anil
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(9), 247; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15090247 - 27 Aug 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1914
Abstract
(1) Background: This systematic review critically appraises and synthesizes evidence from in vitro studies investigating the effects of curcumin nanoparticles on titanium surface modification, focusing on cell adhesion, proliferation, osteogenic differentiation, and mineralization. (2) Methods: A comprehensive electronic search was conducted in PubMed, [...] Read more.
(1) Background: This systematic review critically appraises and synthesizes evidence from in vitro studies investigating the effects of curcumin nanoparticles on titanium surface modification, focusing on cell adhesion, proliferation, osteogenic differentiation, and mineralization. (2) Methods: A comprehensive electronic search was conducted in PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Google Scholar databases, yielding six in vitro studies that met the inclusion criteria. The search strategy and study selection process followed PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. A qualitative methodological assessment was performed using the SciRAP (Science in Risk Assessment and Policy) method, which evaluated the reporting and methodological quality of the included studies. (3) Results: All six studies consistently demonstrated that curcumin-coated titanium surfaces inhibited osteoclastogenesis and promoted osteogenic activity, evidenced by enhanced cell adhesion, proliferation, osteogenic differentiation, and mineralization. The mean reporting quality score was 91.8 (SD = 5.7), and the mean methodological quality score was 85.8 (SD = 10.50), as assessed by the SciRAP method. Half of the studies used hydroxyapatite-coated titanium as a control, while the other half used uncoated titanium, introducing potential variability in baseline comparisons. (4) Conclusions: This systematic review provides compelling in vitro evidence supporting the osteogenic potential of curcumin nanoparticle-coated titanium surfaces. The findings suggest that this surface modification strategy may enhance titanium implants’ biocompatibility and osteogenic properties, potentially improving dental and orthopedic implant outcomes. However, the review highlights significant heterogeneity in experimental designs and a concentration of studies from a single research group. Further research, particularly in vivo studies and clinical trials from diverse research teams, is essential to validate these findings and comprehensively understand the translational potential of this promising surface modification approach. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Synthesis of Biomaterials via Advanced Technologies)
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40 pages, 494 KiB  
Systematic Review
A Systematic Review of the Relationship between Social Isolation and Physical Health in Adults
by Deborah Witt Sherman, Alliete Rodriguez Alfano, Fernando Alfonso, Carmen R. Duque, Daniella Eiroa, Yamile Marrero, Teresa Muñecas, Erica Radcliffe-Henry, Ana Rodriguez and Chelsea L. Sommer
Healthcare 2024, 12(11), 1135; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12111135 - 1 Jun 2024
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 11165
Abstract
Background: According to the World Health Organization, social isolation, particularly of older adults, is a public health issue endangering the well-being of individuals, families, and communities. Social isolation affects health through biological, behavioral, and psychological pathways and is associated with physical and psychological/emotional [...] Read more.
Background: According to the World Health Organization, social isolation, particularly of older adults, is a public health issue endangering the well-being of individuals, families, and communities. Social isolation affects health through biological, behavioral, and psychological pathways and is associated with physical and psychological/emotional well-being, increases morbidity and mortality rates, and lowers quality of life. Purpose: This systematic review examined the relationship between social isolation and physical health, including subjective and objective dimensions, and factors that influence this relationship in adults. Methods: This systematic review examined six electronic databases covering the field of health and human services and included results from 1 January 2017 to 10 March 2023 with key terms including adult social connection or social isolation coupled with health, physical, psychological, emotional, mental, or behavioral. The initial search yielded 925 research articles across all databases and was narrowed to 710 when the decision was made to focus on social isolation and physical health. Covidence was used throughout the retrieval and appraisal process, as provided in a PRISMA flow diagram. Twenty-four studies that scored 90 or above in the appraisal process were included in the systematic review. Results: The studies represented included seven studies conducted in the United States and seventeen studies conducted internationally. Regarding study design, twenty-three studies were quantitative, one was qualitative, and one was mixed methods. The majority of quantitative studies were correlational in design with nine being longitudinal. The majority of studies were based on large national data sets representing in total 298,653 participants aged 50 and older. The results indicate that social isolation is related to increases in inflammatory biomarkers associated with diseases, all-cause mortality, lower expectations of longevity, and frailty. In addition, social isolation was associated with cognitive decline and disruptions in sleep. Poor oral health increased social isolation. The results further indicated that decreased physical performance/function and a decline in physical activity were associated with social isolation, as well as decreased overall physical health, poor health behaviors, and self-care, and decreased health-related quality of life. Further research is warranted to examine the possible bidirectionality of these relationships and possible mediating, moderating, or confounding variables. Implications: Future research is needed to explore the biological and behavioral pathways in which social isolation negatively impacts physical health. Going forward, studies are needed that move beyond descriptive, exploratory methods and integrate data from qualitative and mixed-method designs that will inform the development and testing of a conceptual framework related to social isolation and health. By advancing the science behind social isolation, comprehensive interventions can be identified and tested with implications at the individual, family, community, and societal levels to reduce social isolation, particularly among adults, and improve health and quality of life. Full article
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25 pages, 801 KiB  
Systematic Review
Performance of Artificial Intelligence Models Designed for Automated Estimation of Age Using Dento-Maxillofacial Radiographs—A Systematic Review
by Sanjeev B. Khanagar, Farraj Albalawi, Aram Alshehri, Mohammed Awawdeh, Kiran Iyer, Barrak Alsomaie, Ali Aldhebaib, Oinam Gokulchandra Singh and Abdulmohsen Alfadley
Diagnostics 2024, 14(11), 1079; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14111079 - 22 May 2024
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2087
Abstract
Automatic age estimation has garnered significant interest among researchers because of its potential practical uses. The current systematic review was undertaken to critically appraise developments and performance of AI models designed for automated estimation using dento-maxillofacial radiographic images. In order to ensure consistency [...] Read more.
Automatic age estimation has garnered significant interest among researchers because of its potential practical uses. The current systematic review was undertaken to critically appraise developments and performance of AI models designed for automated estimation using dento-maxillofacial radiographic images. In order to ensure consistency in their approach, the researchers followed the diagnostic test accuracy guidelines outlined in PRISMA-DTA for this systematic review. They conducted an electronic search across various databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Cochrane, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and the Saudi Digital Library to identify relevant articles published between the years 2000 and 2024. A total of 26 articles that satisfied the inclusion criteria were subjected to a risk of bias assessment using QUADAS-2, which revealed a flawless risk of bias in both arms for the patient-selection domain. Additionally, the certainty of evidence was evaluated using the GRADE approach. AI technology has primarily been utilized for automated age estimation through tooth development stages, tooth and bone parameters, bone age measurements, and pulp–tooth ratio. The AI models employed in the studies achieved a remarkably high precision of 99.05% and accuracy of 99.98% in the age estimation for models using tooth development stages and bone age measurements, respectively. The application of AI as an additional diagnostic tool within the realm of age estimation demonstrates significant promise. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in the Diagnosis of Oral and Maxillofacial Disease)
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18 pages, 1348 KiB  
Review
Wearable Sensors and the Evaluation of Physiological Performance in Elite Field Hockey Players
by Francesca Latino and Francesco Tafuri
Sports 2024, 12(5), 124; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports12050124 - 29 Apr 2024
Cited by 26 | Viewed by 4575
Abstract
Sports performance tracking has gained a lot of interest and widespread use in recent years, especially in elite and sub-elite sports. This makes it possible to improve the effectiveness of training, to calibrate and balance workloads according to real energy expenditure, and to [...] Read more.
Sports performance tracking has gained a lot of interest and widespread use in recent years, especially in elite and sub-elite sports. This makes it possible to improve the effectiveness of training, to calibrate and balance workloads according to real energy expenditure, and to reduce the likelihood of injuries due to excessive physical stress. In this context, the aim of this review was to map the scientific literature on wearable devices used in field hockey, evaluating their characteristics and the available evidence on their validity in measuring physiological and movement parameters. A systematic investigation was carried out by employing five electronic databases and search terms that incorporated field hockey, wearables, and performance analysis. Two independent reviewers conducted assessments of the 3401 titles and abstracts for inclusion, and at the end of the screening process, 102 full texts were analyzed. Lastly, a total of 23 research articles that specifically concentrated on field hockey were incorporated. The selected papers dealt with performance monitoring (6 papers), technical analysis and strategy game (6), injury prevention (1), and physiological measurements (10). To appraise the quality of the evaluations, the Oxford quality scoring system scale was employed. The extraction of information was carried out through the utilization of the participants, intervention, comparison, and outcomes (PICOS) format. The analysis encompassed research studies that implemented wearable devices during training and competitive events. Among elite field hockey competitions, GPS units were identified as the predominant wearable, followed by heart rate monitors. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) related to wearable devices showed reasonably high between-trial ICCs ranging from 0.77 to 0.99. The utilization of wearable devices in field hockey primarily centers around the measurement of player activity profiles and physiological demands. The presence of discrepancies in sampling rates and performance bands makes it arduous to draw comparisons between studies. Nevertheless, this analysis attested to the fact that wearable devices are being employed for diverse applications in the realm of field hockey. Full article
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14 pages, 837 KiB  
Review
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Replacement Affects Quality of Life: A Systematic Review and Synthesis of Clinical Trials
by Maciej Chęciński, Kamila Chęcińska, Filip Bliźniak, Karolina Lubecka, Natalia Turosz, Iwona Rąpalska, Adam Michcik, Dariusz Chlubek and Maciej Sikora
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(7), 2912; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14072912 - 29 Mar 2024
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3301
Abstract
This systematic review aims to determine the impact of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) replacement on health-related quality of life. The review was reported following the Enhancing Transparency in Reporting the Synthesis of Qualitative Research (ENTREQ) guidelines. An electronic search using the Bielefeld Academic Search [...] Read more.
This systematic review aims to determine the impact of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) replacement on health-related quality of life. The review was reported following the Enhancing Transparency in Reporting the Synthesis of Qualitative Research (ENTREQ) guidelines. An electronic search using the Bielefeld Academic Search Engine was performed to identify primary studies reported in English and published up until November 2023. Ten reports fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were assessed according to the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP): Qualitative Studies Checklist. The overall research value of the studies ranged from high (dominant) to moderate. The synthesis of the results concerning TMJ replacement in severe degenerative disease showed an improvement in (1) quality of life, (2) pain intensity, (3) mastication efficiency, and (4) mandibular mobility. One study presented favorable outcomes for patients suffering from ankylosis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Orthodontics and Maxillofacial Surgery)
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26 pages, 2577 KiB  
Systematic Review
Virtual, Augmented, and Mixed Reality Applications for Surgical Rehearsal, Operative Execution, and Patient Education in Spine Surgery: A Scoping Review
by Tim Bui, Miguel A. Ruiz-Cardozo, Harsh S. Dave, Karma Barot, Michael Ryan Kann, Karan Joseph, Sofia Lopez-Alviar, Gabriel Trevino, Samuel Brehm, Alexander T. Yahanda and Camilo A Molina
Medicina 2024, 60(2), 332; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60020332 - 15 Feb 2024
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 6988
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Advances in virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR) technologies have resulted in their increased application across many medical specialties. VR’s main application has been for teaching and preparatory roles, while AR has been mostly used [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Advances in virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR) technologies have resulted in their increased application across many medical specialties. VR’s main application has been for teaching and preparatory roles, while AR has been mostly used as a surgical adjunct. The objective of this study is to discuss the various applications and prospects for VR, AR, and MR specifically as they relate to spine surgery. Materials and Methods: A systematic review was conducted to examine the current applications of VR, AR, and MR with a focus on spine surgery. A literature search of two electronic databases (PubMed and Scopus) was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). The study quality was assessed using the MERSQI score for educational research studies, QUACS for cadaveric studies, and the JBI critical appraisal tools for clinical studies. Results: A total of 228 articles were identified in the primary literature review. Following title/abstract screening and full-text review, 46 articles were included in the review. These articles comprised nine studies performed in artificial models, nine cadaveric studies, four clinical case studies, nineteen clinical case series, one clinical case–control study, and four clinical parallel control studies. Teaching applications utilizing holographic overlays are the most intensively studied aspect of AR/VR; the most simulated surgical procedure is pedicle screw placement. Conclusions: VR provides a reproducible and robust medium for surgical training through surgical simulations and for patient education through various platforms. Existing AR/MR platforms enhance the accuracy and precision of spine surgeries and show promise as a surgical adjunct. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Application of Augmented Reality (AR) in Neurosurgery)
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15 pages, 654 KiB  
Review
Living with Multimorbidity through Time: A Meta-Synthesis of Qualitative Longitudinal Evidence
by Cheng Cheng and Martin Christensen
Healthcare 2024, 12(4), 446; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12040446 - 9 Feb 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1913
Abstract
The growing prevalence of multimorbidity places a strain on primary healthcare globally. The current study’s aim was to identify, appraise, and synthesize published qualitative longitudinal research on individuals’ experiences concerning living with multimorbidity through time. The authors searched two electronic databases, MEDLINE and [...] Read more.
The growing prevalence of multimorbidity places a strain on primary healthcare globally. The current study’s aim was to identify, appraise, and synthesize published qualitative longitudinal research on individuals’ experiences concerning living with multimorbidity through time. The authors searched two electronic databases, MEDLINE and CINAHL, and performed an additional literature search in Google Scholar. A thematic synthesis approach was used to analyze the qualitative data across the studies. A total of 10 reports that met the inclusion and exclusion criteria were included in the synthesis. Five descriptive themes emerged from the analysis of the living experiences of individuals with multimorbidity: (1) perceiving multimorbidity, (2) managing chronic conditions, (3) emotional struggles in everyday life with multimorbidity, (4) interactions with the healthcare system and healthcare professionals, and (5) family support. This meta-synthesis provides insights into the diverse perceptions of multimorbidity and how individuals cope with their chronic conditions in their daily lives. The findings highlight the importance of establishing effective patient-centered care that acknowledges and supports the multifaceted needs of this population. It is also recommended to involve a psychological component in the care of individuals with multimorbidity, as part of a collaborative and interprofessional approach. Full article
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