Search Results (1,012)

Objectives: Digitalization has revolutionized dentistry, introducing advanced technological tools that improve diagnostic accuracy and access to healthcare. This study aims to examine the effects of integrating digital technologies into the dental field, analyzing the associated benefits and risks, with particular paid attention to the therapeutic relationship and decision-making autonomy. Materials and Methods: A literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library, complemented by Google Scholar for non-indexed studies. The selection criteria included peer-reviewed studies published in English between 2014 and 2024, focusing on digital dentistry, artificial intelligence, and medical ethics. This is a narrative review. Elements of PRISMA guidelines were applied to enhance transparency in reporting. Results: The analysis highlighted that although digital technologies and AI offer significant benefits, such as more accurate diagnoses and personalized treatments, there are associated risks, including the loss of empathy in the dentist–patient relationship, the risk of overdiagnosis, and the possibility of bias in the data. Conclusions: The balance between technological innovation and the centrality of the dentist is crucial. A human and ethical approach to digital medicine is essential to ensure that technologies improve patient care without compromising the therapeutic relationship. To preserve the quality of dental care, it is necessary to integrate digital technologies in a way that supports, rather than replaces, the therapeutic relationship. Full article

Background/Objectives: Taste dysfunction is a highly prevalent yet underrecognized complication among patients with head and neck cancer (HNC), significantly impairing nutritional intake, treatment adherence, and quality of life (QoL). This comprehensive review synthesizes current knowledge on the pathophysiological mechanisms and clinical management of taste dysfunction associated with HNC and its treatments, particularly chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Methods: A structured literature search was performed across PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library for articles published between January 2015 and February 2025. Studies were included if they investigated taste dysfunction related to HNC, focusing on pathophysiological mechanisms and therapeutic interventions. A total of 47 original studies were analyzed through a narrative synthesis due to heterogeneity in study designs and outcomes. Results: Taste dysfunction in HNC patients arises from tumor-related inflammation, cytotoxic injury from chemotherapy, and radiation-induced epithelial and neural damage. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy often exert synergistic negative effects on gustatory function. Management strategies identified include dietary counselling, nutritional supplementation (zinc, lactoferrin, monosodium glutamate, miraculin), pharmacological agents targeting salivary function, and non-pharmacological interventions such as acupuncture, photobiomodulation, and reconstructive surgery. However, the evidence is limited by small sample sizes, methodological variability, and the frequent exclusion of HNC patients from broader dysgeusia trials. Reported prevalence of taste dysfunction ranged from 39% to 97.4%, with higher rates observed among patients treated with radiotherapy and chemoradiotherapy. Conclusions: Taste dysfunction remains a critical yet unmet clinical challenge in HNC patients. High-quality, targeted research is urgently needed to develop standardized assessments and evidence-based management strategies to improve patient outcomes. Full article

Massively parallel or next-generation sequencing (NGS) has enabled the genetic characterization of cancer patients, allowing the identification of somatic and germline variants associated with their diagnosis, tumor classification, and therapy response. Despite its benefits, NGS testing is not yet available in the Chilean public health system, rendering it both costly and time-consuming for patients and clinicians. Using a retrospective cohort of 67 formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) colorectal cancer (CRC) samples, we aimed to implement the identification, annotation, and prioritization of relevant actionable tumor somatic variants in our laboratory, as part of the public health system. We compared two different library preparation methodologies (amplicon-based and capture-based) and different bioinformatics pipelines for sequencing analysis to assess advantages and disadvantages of each one. We obtained 80.5% concordance between actionable variants detected in our analysis and those obtained in the Cancer Genomics Laboratory from the Universidad de Chile (62 out of 77 variants), a validated laboratory for this methodology. Notably, 98.4% (61 out of 62) of variants detected previously by the validated laboratory were also identified in our analysis. Then, comparing the hybridization capture-based library preparation methodology with the amplicon-based strategy, we found ~94% concordance between identified actionable variants across the 15 shared genes, analyzed by the TumorSec^TM bioinformatics pipeline, developed by the Cancer Genomics Laboratory. Our results demonstrate that it is entirely viable to implement an NGS-based analysis of actionable variant identification and prioritization in cancer samples in our laboratory, being part of the Chilean public health system and paving the way to improve the access to such analyses. Considering the economic realities of most Latin American countries, using a small NGS panel, such as TumorSec^TM, focused on relevant variants of the Chilean and Latin American population is a cost-effective approach to extensive global NGS panels. Furthermore, the incorporation of automated bioinformatics analysis in this streamlined assay holds the potential of facilitating the implementation of precision medicine in this geographic region, which aims to greatly support personalized treatment of cancer patients in Chile. Full article

Background: Oral lichen planus is a chronic, potentially malignant disorder affecting the mucous membrane. As the etiology remains not fully understood, the treatment of this condition is mainly symptomatic, involving corticosteroids and other immunosuppressive agents, e.g., calcineurin inhibitors. One of the alternative therapeutic approaches includes platelet concentrates, which are autologous bioactive materials. The aim of this review was to evaluate the effects of platelet concentrates in the treatment of oral lichen planus and to compare them to other therapeutic strategies. Methods: The electronic databases PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library were searched for articles published up to 30 March 2025, describing clinical studies focused on oral lichen planus and treatment with platelet concentrates. Results: Fourteen studies describing the effects of oral lichen planus therapy with three types of platelet concentrates (injectable platelet-rich plasma, injectable platelet-rich fibrin, and platelet-rich plasma gel) were included in this review. Comparative strategies included steroids and immunosuppressive agents. The treatment duration ranged from 3 weeks to 2 months. The follow-up period varied from 4 weeks to 6 months. In most of the studies, comparable efficacy was achieved for platelet derivatives and alternative treatments. Two of the studies demonstrated more beneficial effects for platelet concentrates compared to controls, while in one of the studies, more severe adverse reactions were revealed in the platelet group compared to the controls. Conclusions: Autologous platelet concentrates showed comparable efficacy in achieving clinical improvement in patients with oral lichen planus to steroids and immunosuppressive drugs. Platelet derivatives could be considered as an alternative treatment to topical immunosuppressives, especially in steroid-refractory cases. Full article

The Roman public library of Timgad (Algeria) constituted the study object of several extensive research works, particularly during the French colonial era. Following a virtual restitution-focused research work, this investigation aims to quantitatively characterize the daylighting conditions inside Timgad Public Library. Here, it must be remembered that the luminous environment inside libraries is a main design parameter and a main environmentalfactor. In addition, it must be highlighted that the Timgad region’s luminous climate differs from where Rome’s designers and builders practiced. Hence, at a first step, a comparison is carried out between the precepts of Vitruvius, the pioneer of ancient Roman architecture, and the outcomes of previous studies related to Roman libraries. Then, as a second step, a double approach combining both 3D geometric modeling and numerical simulation using Radiance (2.0Beta) software. These simulations are mainly elaborated for the case of the large reading room, including most of the building’s main activities—consulting, reading, and storing books. Finally, this inner luminous environment’s characterization highlights that the Timgad Roman antic library was not uniformly daylit and suggests that its use varied spatially and temporally with respect to this environmental parameter. Full article

Background/Objective: Fentanyl plays a pivotal role in the opioid epidemic, defined by four waves of overdose deaths. To analyse fentanyl research trends, examining its links to mental health, pharmaceutical development, healthcare, diseases, and pathophysiology within the broader social and health context of the time. Methods: To understand the evolution of scientific publications on fentanyl and its relationship to the opioid crisis, a search using Web of Science Core Collection and PubMed was conducted. A total of 53,670 documents were retrieved related to opioid scientific production, among which 1423 articles (3%) focused specifically on fentanyl. The 21,546 MeSH terms identified in these documents were analysed by publication year and specific fields: Psychiatry and Psychology, Chemicals and Drugs, Healthcare, Diseases, and Phenomena and Processes. R-statistical/FactoMineR libraries were used for the correspondence analysis. Results: In the first overdose death wave, research focused on improving therapies and reducing side effects. The second wave emphasised detoxification methods with naltrexone, methadone, and behavioural therapies. The third wave addressed psychological treatments and HIV-syringe-sharing prevention. The fourth wave prioritised less addictive analogues and understanding consumer profiles to combat the epidemic. Conclusions: Fentanyl research has evolved alongside real-world challenges, reinforcing the connection between patients’ needs, healthcare professionals’ roles, illicit users, policymakers, and the research community’s contributions to addressing both therapeutic use and its broader societal impact. These findings highlight the necessity for an interdisciplinary approach to scientific research integrating prevention, treatment, education, legal reform, and social support, emphasising the need for public health policies and collaborative research to mitigate its impact. Full article

Viral conjunctivitis is a highly contagious ocular condition that significantly impacts patient quality of life and healthcare resources. Despite its self-limiting nature, the condition remains a significant public health concern due to its high transmissibility, prolonged symptoms, and potential complications such as subepithelial infiltrates (SEIs). This review aimed to synthesize and evaluate current management strategies for adenoviral conjunctivitis and provide an evidence-based treatment framework. A systematic literature search of PubMed and the Cochrane Library was conducted, identifying 25 eligible studies published between 2009 and 2024 that focused on clinical interventions including supportive care, antiseptics, corticosteroids, antivirals, and immune modulators. The findings indicate that while supportive therapy and hygiene measures remain central to care, antiseptic agents, specifically povidone–iodine, and topical steroids offer additional benefit in reducing symptom duration and complications. Combination therapies integrating antiseptics, corticosteroids, and immunomodulators show promise for more severe cases, especially those complicated by SEIs. This review proposes an evidence-based comprehensive, multimodal approach management algorithm while highlighting the need for future research in antiviral development and diagnostic innovation to avoid mistreatment and unnecessary antibiotic use. Full article

Small Language Models (SLMs) have emerged as a critical area of study within natural language processing, attracting growing attention from both academia and industry. This systematic literature review provides a comprehensive and reproducible analysis of recent developments and advancements in SLMs post-2023. Drawing on 70 English-language studies published between January 2023 and January 2025, identified through Scopus, IEEE Xplore, Web of Science, and ACM Digital Library, and focusing primarily on SLMs (including those with up to 7 billion parameters), this review offers a structured overview of the current state of the art and potential future directions. Designed as a resource for researchers seeking an in-depth global synthesis, the review examines key dimensions such as publication trends, visual data representations, contributing institutions, and the availability of public datasets. It highlights prevailing research challenges and outlines proposed solutions, with a particular focus on widely adopted model architectures, as well as common compression and optimization techniques. This study also evaluates the criteria used to assess the effectiveness of SLMs and discusses emerging de facto standards for industry. The curated data and insights aim to support and inform ongoing and future research in this rapidly evolving field. Full article

Obesity-related low-grade inflammation is a significant factor responsible for the development of metabolic syndrome and chronic diseases, which can begin even in early childhood. Recently, there has been growing interest in the impact of vitamin D3 supplementation on inflammatory markers in overweight and obese individuals; however, findings remain inconsistent. Therefore, we aimed to conduct a systematic review to assess the effects of vitamin D3 supplementation on inflammatory markers in overweight and obese children and adolescents, focused exclusively on the analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) identified by searching PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library. The results of this study were synthesized and reported following the PRISMA statement. A total of 294 citations were identified through electronic literature searches, of which two RCTs were finally included in our systematic review. We found that vitamin D3 supplementation did not affect the changes in C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), but led to a decrease in leptin levels. The small number of studies meeting the inclusion criteria for our systematic review limits the value of the presented results, but also indicates the need for in-depth research on this topic. Full article

Background/Objectives: Caesarean section (CS) accounts for over 20% of global births and routinely involves perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis (PAP) to reduce surgical site infections. While the impact of such prophylaxis on neonatal microbiome development is well described, effects on the maternal gut microbiome remain underexplored. This systematic review synthesizes current evidence on how antibiotic prophylaxis during CS affects maternal gut microbiome composition and diversity—an underrepresented, but clinically relevant aspect of maternal–fetal medicine. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted in Medline (PubMed), the Cochrane Library, and the WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) through November 2024. Inclusion criteria were defined according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Eligible studies used molecular techniques to report maternal gut microbiome outcomes (alpha- and beta-diversity). The search concentrated on beta-lactam antibiotics. Reference lists were screened, but no additional grey literature was searched. Synthesis followed the Synthesis Without meta-analysis (SWiM) approach. No review protocol was registered. The review received no external funding. Results: Out of 1011 records, three studies (total 286 mothers) met the inclusion criteria. All reported maternal microbiome outcomes secondarily to infant-focused research. Only one study provided pre- and post-birth stool samples. Applied antibiotic regimens, sequencing methods, and reported microbiome metrics for alpha- and beta-diversity varied considerably, thus limiting comparability of results. Due to high heterogeneity, no formal risk of bias was assessed. While taxonomic diversity changes were inconsistent, significant shifts in functional diversity metrics were observed postpartum. Conclusions: Evidence on maternal microbiome disruption following perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis in CS is methodologically fragmented and limited by small sample sizes and inconsistent antibiotic protocols. Nonetheless, functional diversity appears sensitive to antibiotic exposure. To improve clinical understanding and safety, maternal-focused studies using standardized protocols are urgently needed. The maternal microbiome may play a key role in both recovery and shaping the newborn’s early microbial environment. Full article

Positron emission tomography (PET) and liquid biopsy have independently transformed prostate cancer management. This review explores the complementary roles of PET imaging and liquid biopsy in prostate cancer, focusing on their combined diagnostic, monitoring, and prognostic potential. A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases was conducted to identify human studies published in English up to January 2025. Seventeen studies met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed according to PRISMA guidelines. Across the included studies, PET-derived imaging metrics, such as metabolic activity and radiotracer uptake, correlated consistently with liquid biopsy biomarkers, including circulating tumor cells and cell-free DNA. Their joint application demonstrated added value in early detection, treatment monitoring, and outcome prediction, particularly in castration-resistant prostate cancer. Independent and synergistic prognostic value was noted for both modalities, including survival outcomes such as overall survival and progression-free survival. Combining PET imaging and liquid biopsy emerges as a promising, non-invasive strategy for improving prostate cancer diagnosis, monitoring, and therapeutic stratification. While preliminary findings are encouraging, large-scale prospective studies are essential to validate their integrated clinical utility. Full article

Background and objectives: The interest in studying the relationship between bruxism and sleep apnea has increased over the past decade, given its prevalence and its implications for both oral and overall health. Bruxism occurs in a significant portion of the population, with an overall incidence ranging between 8 and 31%. Obstructive sleep apnea affects 4–6% of middle-aged men and 2–4% of middle-aged women, and it is associated with diminished quality of life, hypertension, increased cardiovascular risks, traffic accidents, and a higher mortality rate. Although a possible association has been suggested, the causal relationship remains unclear. This review aimed to systematically evaluate the available evidence on the association between SB and OSA, focusing on potential shared risk factors and underlying mechanisms. Methods: An electronic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library for studies published between 2020 and 2025. Inclusion criteria encompassed observational studies and clinical trials involving adults with SB and/or OSA. Risk of bias was assessed using ROBINS-I, and the certainty of evidence was evaluated using GRADE. The review protocol was not registered. Results: A total of 11 studies met the inclusion criteria. The prevalence of SB was consistently higher in individuals with OSA compared to the general population. Several studies suggest a potential link through autonomic arousals and neurotransmitter dysregulation. However, inconsistencies in diagnostic criteria and moderate methodological quality limited the strength of the findings. Conclusions: There is a notable prevalence of bruxism in patients with OSA, suggesting possible shared pathophysiological mechanisms; however, it is necessary to standardize diagnostic criteria and conduct larger, more standardized studies to clarify the relationship. No funding was received, and the authors declare no conflicts of interest. Full article

This research aims to understand the evolving role of academic libraries, focusing on student perceptions of current services and their vision for the future. Data was collected using a survey at a midwestern research university in the United States. The survey contained both quantitative and qualitative questions. The objective of the survey was to understand the current utilization of library services and students’ future visions for academic libraries. Qualitative and quantitative analysis techniques were utilized as part of the study. Thematic analysis was employed as part of the qualitative analysis, while descriptive and inferential analysis techniques were utilized in the quantitative analysis. The findings reveal that many students use libraries for traditional functions such as studying and accessing resources. There is also an inclination toward digitalization due to convenience, accessibility, and environmental sustainability; however, print materials remain relevant as well. Another finding was a lack of awareness among some students regarding available library services, indicating a need for better marketing and communication strategies. Students envision future libraries as technology-driven spaces integrating artificial intelligence (AI), augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and innovative collaborative environments. Ethical considerations surrounding AI, including privacy, bias, and transparency, are crucial factors that must be addressed. Some of the actionable recommendations include integrating ethical AI, implementing digital literacy initiatives, conducting ongoing usability and user experience (UX) research within the library, and fostering cross-functional collaboration to enhance library services and student learning. Full article

Background and aims: Rheumatic diseases are chronic, progressive conditions associated with severe pain, joint damage, disability, and even death. Healthcare interventions play a critical role in symptom management, patient education, and adherence to treatment plans. This study evaluates the role of healthcare interventions in the management of patients with rheumatic diseases, focusing on pain management, functional rehabilitation, patient education, and multidisciplinary collaboration. In addition, barriers to optimal care and potential solutions, including digital health technologies, are explored. Materials and methods: We conducted a narrative review of the scientific literature. Studies published between 2014 and 2025 were selected from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Elsevier, Springer, Frontiers, and Wiley Online Library. Key areas of review included nurse-led pain management, education programs, and the impact of interdisciplinary care on patient outcomes. Results: Nursing interventions significantly improve pain control, treatment adherence, and self-management skills in patients with rheumatic diseases. Multidisciplinary approaches improve functional rehabilitation and increase quality of life in patients with rheumatic conditions. However, barriers such as insufficient health care resources, lack of patient awareness, and disparities in the availability of services hinder effective care delivery. Conclusions: A structured, multidisciplinary approach integrating healthcare interventions, digital health solutions, and patient-centered education is essential to optimize the management of rheumatic diseases. Future research should focus on improving access to non-pharmacological therapies and standardizing healthcare protocols for better patient outcomes. Full article

A Sanskrit manuscript of the Prajñāpāramitā or Perfection of Wisdom in eight thousand verses, now in the Cambridge University Library, Add.1643, is one of the most ambitiously designed South Asian manuscripts from the eleventh century, with the highest number of painted panels known among the dated manuscripts from medieval South Asia until 1400 CE. Thanks to the unique occurrence of a caption written next to each painted panel, it is possible to identify most images in this manuscript as representing those of famous pilgrimage sites or auspicious images of specific locales. The iconographic program transforms Add.1643 into a portable device containing famous pilgrimage sites of the Buddhist world known to the makers and users of the manuscript in eleventh-century Nepal. It is one compact colorful package of a book, which can be opened and experienced in its unfolding three-dimensional space, like a virtual or imagined pilgrimage. Building on the recent research focusing on early medieval Buddhist sites across Monsoon Asia and analyzing the representational potentials and ontological values of painting, this essay demonstrates how this early eleventh-century Nepalese manuscript (Add.1643) and its visual program document and remember the knowledge of maritime travels and the transregional and intraregional activities of people and ideas moving across Monsoon Asia. Despite being made in the Kathmandu Valley with a considerable physical distance from the actual sea routes, the sites remembered in the manuscript open a possibility to connect the dots of human movement beyond the known networks and routes of “world systems”. Full article