Tag: pubmed

J Can Dent Assoc. 2025 Nov;91:p16.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Social media have emerged as valuable tools for dentists to connect with patients; however, their misuse may adversely affect the patient-dentist relationship. Given the trend toward commercialized, cosmetically oriented values within the general population, this study examined how dentists use the LinkedIn social network to promote themselves as cosmetic dentists. It also assessed whether dentists’ social media practices align with the professional and ethical obligations of dentistry’s social contract, given that cosmetic dentistry is not a recognized specialty.

METHODS: A cross-sectional, convenience sampling method was used to retrieve LinkedIn profiles of dentists from 6 Canadian provinces: British Columbia, Ontario, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador. Profiles were screened for the term “cosmetic” in the headline, position title and/or company name fields to determine whether dentists promoted themselves as cosmetic dentists or appropriately represented themselves as dentists with skills in cosmetic dentistry.

RESULTS: A total of 896 dentists had LinkedIn profiles, of whom 612 were registered with their respective dental regulatory authorities and were eligible for screening, after which 527 profiles were subjected to content analysis. Overall, 469 (89%) of the 527 profiles included in the content analysis did not misrepresent their credentials. Ontario dentists had the highest frequency of misrepresentation, followed by British Columbia and Nova Scotia; for all 3 provinces, misrepresentation was most prevalent in LinkedIn headlines. Profiles of dentists in the other 3 Atlantic provinces (New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Prince Edward Island) had no mentions of the term “cosmetic.” No significant relationship was found between the province of practice and the distribution of misrepresentation across the different sections of the LinkedIn profile (p = 0.84).

CONCLUSION: These findings offer insight into the potential of social media to jeopardize dentistry’s social contract and highlight the importance of professionalism as dentistry evolves.

PMID:41805206

J Can Dent Assoc. 2025 Jul;91:p15.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: The recently launched income-based Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) may help to reduce oral health inequities and financial barriers for almost 9 million uninsured residents of Canada. The objective of this study was to critically appraise early CDCP data in terms of patient eligibility and provider enrolment and participation in the program.

METHODS: This study was based on cross-sectional and retrospective publicly available data from the CDCP and from the Survey of Oral Health Care Providers (SOHCP) released by the Government of Canada, Health Canada and Statistics Canada in 2024 and 2025. The results of descriptive statistical analyses are reported as means, percentages and averages.

RESULTS: The number of approved applicants (where eligibility was based on annual income tax records), the number of those receiving care and the number of oral health care providers (e.g., dentists, dental therapists, independent practising hygienists) participating in the CDCP increased by 77.2%, 344.6% and 34.0%, respectively, between August 2024 and May 2025. According to the providers participating in the SOHCP, more than 60% of practices would be able to accommodate the forecasted additional patient visit load associated with introduction of the CDCP. As wait times for existing patients increased, the likelihood of accommodating more patients decreased. At the time this study was conducted, no claims data on types of treatment provided or patients’ perspectives about the program were available.

CONCLUSION: The CDCP is a form of policy offering publicly funded oral health care, but potential enrolment is restricted to those who file their income tax returns. Most practices seem able to cope with the foreseen increase in patients seeking oral health care. Service utilization and oral health indicators are still emerging; comprehensive claims data and further research on patients’ perspectives are needed to explore the extent to which the CDCP is addressing oral health inequities.

PMID:41805205

J Can Dent Assoc. 2025 Aug;91:p8.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Although condylar fractures are common in the field of oral and maxillofacial surgery, the approach to their treatment is not straightforward. Multiple soft-tissue approaches are available, but it is unclear which yields the best outcomes. In this retrospective study, we aimed to determine whether a transparotid or submandibular soft-tissue approach to treating condylar fractures yields better outcomes.

METHODS: This study consisted of a retrospective chart audit and an in-person assessment. The chart audit involved all patients who presented to the Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Centre (Halifax) between 2012 and 2022 with condylar fracture treated with open reduction and internal fixation. The chart review assessed each patient’s maximum interincisal opening, paresthesia, nerve function, infection and occlusion. The in-person assessment further assessed scar satisfaction, overall patient satisfaction with the treatment process and cosmetic results, and the incidence of Frey syndrome. Outcomes with the transparotid and submandibular approaches were compared using the Mann-Whitney U test for continuous variables and the χ² or Fisher exact test for categorical variables, with significance level set at p < 0.05 (2-tailed).

RESULTS: Data were collected from the charts of 32 patients who met the eligibility criteria during the study period; 14 of these patients also underwent an in-person assessment (at 1 to 7 years after the surgery). Statistical analysis of data from the chart audit and in-person assessment suggested no difference between the 2 approaches in terms of surgical outcomes after condylar fractures.

CONCLUSION: The optimal approach for treatment of condylar fractures should be determined individually, based on the surgeon’s preference, fracture location and extent of the fracture.

PMID:41805201

Neurosurgery. 2026 Mar 10. doi: 10.1227/neu.0000000000003979. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

In an era in which digital connectivity transcends geographical borders, multimedia platforms can affect neurosurgical education on a global scale. Multimedia educational programs are reaching neurosurgeons worldwide, exposing them to complex cases and novel techniques that they might not otherwise see. After collecting analytical data on engagement with Barrow Neurological Institute’s Barrow Live Surgery, Neurosurgery Base Camp, and Seven Series, as well as its educational posts published on the social media platforms YouTube, Instagram, and X, a survey was developed to measure the effect of each program on viewer confidence and knowledge. Data from academic institutions with active neurosurgical multimedia channels (>30 000 impressions) were used as a comparator. Statistical tests were conducted using R (version 4.3.2) with significance defined as P < .05. Between October 23, 2020, and July 18, 2024, Barrow Neurological Institute’s educational material had 1 906 197 views and 21 754 hours of total watch time, reaching more than 30 low- and middle-income countries. Barrow Neurological Institute had the most impressions and the highest impression-to-subscriber ratio among comparable institutions. Viewers preferred engaging with videos in a continuous series rather than with segmented episodes. Forty-nine percent of survey respondents resided outside the United States, and 26% were from low- and middle-income countries. Based on a 10-point Likert scale, median confidence in treating complex cases increased from 1 to 4 (P < .001) and confidence in recognizing disease pathophysiology increased from 2.5 to 5.5 (P < .001). Our results suggest that free online media can democratize access to advanced neurosurgical education, especially in areas with limited access to specialized training.

PMID:41805191 | DOI:10.1227/neu.0000000000003979

Prep Biochem Biotechnol. 2026 Mar 10:1-16. doi: 10.1080/10826068.2026.2636922. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

The article presents the optimal characteristics of RSM-based microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) of Lakadong turmeric in the soy milk system. Either pepper or a combination of 6-herbs as adjuvants were considered for improved palatability of the in-situ prepared liquid soy milk-based turmeric extracts (SMTE). Microwave power (W) and heating time (min) were systematically varied. In these investigations, curcumin and anti-oxidant activity (AA) were evaluated as the response variables. Non-linear quadratic models were affirmed by RSM. Statistical analysis confirmed upon the adequacy of the models with higher R² values, significant model terms (p < 0.05), and lower errors. Pareto charts revealed the terms with significant influence on the response variables. The optimized process parameter combinations, as obtained from numerical optimization, were 450 W, 7.0 min for powder-based and 450 W and 10 min for paste-based liquid SMTEs. For these conditions, the highest combination of curcumin (14.755-17.154 mg/100 mL) and AA (119.820-135.011%) was achieved for the liquid SMTEs. The RSM-associated MAE-based turmeric milk products’ development has been successful to infer upon the functional dairy products. However, the conducted study can only be utilized as a generic framework for the integration of plant-based bio-actives into the plant-based matrices and with the household appliances.

PMID:41805174 | DOI:10.1080/10826068.2026.2636922

Minerva Surg. 2026 Mar 10. doi: 10.23736/S2724-5691.25.11007-1. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: From an anesthesiologic perspective, carotid endarterectomy (CEA) is an operation that is increasingly being performed with locoregional techniques and sedation. The aim of this observational study was to compare dexmedetomidine with midazolam and fentanyl during CEA in terms of perioperative adverse events, patient, anesthetist, and surgeon satisfaction, as well as the possible reduction in clamping time and the number of times additional local anesthesia is needed.

METHODS: Sixty patients listed for CEA were enrolled and two types of sedation were used, both protocols widely used in our hospital, resulting in the formation of two groups of patients. Both the intermediate and superficial cervical plexus blocks were administered, and the patients in Group 1 were sedated with midazolam and fentanyl, and Group 2 was sedated with dexmedetomidine. We examined comorbidities, surgical time and clamping, and possible intraoperative use of local anesthetics and intraprocedural complications, and follow-up at 180 days to observe any residual deficits. The data were analyzed with SPSS Statistics 25 (IBM).

RESULTS: Patients, anesthetists and surgeons levelled off on a high level of satisfaction (scores 3 and 4). Clamping and operation times were similar between the two groups and within the ranges described in the literature.

CONCLUSIONS: There were no significant differences between the two groups regarding perioperative adverse events or decreased clamping or intervention times. Only surgeons and anesthetists were clearly aligned towards a satisfaction score of 4 with dexmedetomidine, although patients did not seem to experience any differences between the two sedations under study.

PMID:41805154 | DOI:10.23736/S2724-5691.25.11007-1

Menopause. 2026 Mar 10. doi: 10.1097/GME.0000000000002759. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) significantly impacts postmenopausal women, yet conventional treatments, such as vaginal estrogen creams, have limitations related to adherence and efficacy. This study aims to develop and evaluate a novel hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC)-based bioadhesive vaginal hydrogel containing estetrol (E4) and estetrol-zinc, with hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HPβCD) as an excipient, to enhance drug retention, bioavailability, and patient compliance.

METHODS: The hydrogel formulations (E4/200 and E4/200/CN) were prepared and characterized for solubility, stability, and drug release. In vitro biocompatibility was assessed using HaCaT keratinocyte and reconstituted human vaginal epithelium models through methyl tetrazolinium (MTT) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) cytotoxicity assays. Permeability was evaluated using a reconstructed vaginal epithelial model. Statistical significance was determined using appropriate tests (t test, ANOVA).

RESULTS: The phase-solubility study demonstrated a stable 1:1 complexation between E4 and HPβCD, improving drug solubility. The hydrogels exhibited excellent biocompatibility, without cytotoxic effects on vaginal epithelial cells (P<0.0001). Permeability testing confirmed E4 retention within vaginal tissues, reducing systemic exposure. The hydrogel formulations ensured sustained and controlled drug release.

CONCLUSIONS: The estetrol-containing HEC-based and HPβCD-based vaginal hydrogel is nontoxic, and the estetrol is readily bioavailable. The formulation enhances estetrol bioavailability while ensuring localized, controlled release and optimizing therapeutic efficacy. Future clinical trials are required to confirm in vivo effectiveness and long-term safety.

PMID:41805135 | DOI:10.1097/GME.0000000000002759

J Appl Res Intellect Disabil. 2026 Mar;39(2):e70192. doi: 10.1111/jar.70192.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: People with intellectual disabilities who menstruate are underrepresented in menopause research and care.

METHODS: A mixed-methods service evaluation was conducted in one NHS Trust. In Phase 1, prescribing data from electronic health records for women aged 40-79 with intellectual disabilities (n = 149) was extracted and statistically compared to estimates for the general population. Phase 2 comprised a focus group with psychiatrists (n = 6) and an interview with a GP (n = 1); data were analysed using framework analysis.

FINDINGS: HRT was prescribed to 3.3% of people with intellectual disabilities, versus 17.2% in the general population, indicating significantly lower prescribing (p < 0.0001). Qualitative themes highlighted low clinician awareness, diagnostic overshadowing, concerns about monitoring and system-level issues. Facilitators included psychiatrist advocacy, proactive carers and clearer primary-to-secondary care collaboration.

CONCLUSIONS: Women with LD were substantially less likely to receive HRT, suggesting a marked inequity in menopause care. Recommendations are made to improve recognition, treatment access and outcomes.

PMID:41805101 | DOI:10.1111/jar.70192

Int J STD AIDS. 2026 Mar 10:9564624261434784. doi: 10.1177/09564624261434784. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BackgroundMen who have sex with men (MSM) receiving HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) are often exposed to repeated antimicrobials due to a high burden of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). These factors may contribute to the selection of antimicrobial resistant bacteria within the intestinal microbiota. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) among Enterobacteriaceae isolated from rectal swabs of MSM receiving PrEP and to assess possible associations with behavioral and PrEP-related variables.MethodsIn this cross-sectional study, rectal swabs were collected from MSM receiving PrEP who had no gastrointestinal symptoms and were attending the Infectious Diseases Clinic of the ‘IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna’ (Italy) for routine STI screening. The same anorectal specimens were used for culture-based isolation, and antimicrobial susceptibility testing of Enterobacteriaceae. Behavioral and clinical data were collected through structured questionnaires.ResultsA total of 126 Enterobacteriaceae isolates, predominantly Escherichia coli (n = 79; 63%) and Klebsiella spp. (n = 35; 28%), were recovered from 89 of the 92 subjects enrolled. Nearly three-quarters of participants reported antimicrobial use in the previous 12 months, and almost one quarter in the month preceding enrolment. Overall, 40% and 39% of participants reported Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae, respectively, within the previous two years. Considering all Enterobacteriaceae isolates, resistance to sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim was the most frequent, followed by ciprofloxacin; resistance to third-generation cephalosporins ranged from 5% to 8%. Resistance to piperacillin/tazobactam was rare (2%), and no carbapenem-resistant isolates were detected. Although not statistically significant, participants reporting recent antibiotic use were more likely to harbor resistant strains across all antimicrobial classes.ConclusionsRepeated antimicrobial exposure for STI management may shape intestinal resistance patterns of Enterobacteriaceae among MSM receiving PrEP. Our findings support the need for continued AMR monitoring and targeted antimicrobial stewardship interventions in this population.

PMID:41805090 | DOI:10.1177/09564624261434784

Paediatr Anaesth. 2026 Mar 10. doi: 10.1002/pan.70166. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The choice of a central venous catheter (CVC) lumen to connect the central venous pressure (CVP) measurement line varies by facility. However, if the CVP values differ based on the connected CVC lumen, this variation could significantly affect the interpretation of the CVP measurements, raising major concerns regarding circulatory management of the patient.

AIMS: This study aimed to determine whether a difference exists in the CVP values between the proximal and distal lumens of the CVC in small pediatric patients undergoing cardiac surgery.

METHODS: Seventeen pediatric patients with congenital heart disease, aged 1 to 31 months, who underwent cardiac surgery between November 2022 and November 2023, were included in this study. The CVC was inserted via the right internal jugular vein or right supraclavicular approach. Separate transducers were connected to the proximal and distal lumens. The CVP values from each were recorded simultaneously throughout the surgery. Differences were examined in the following phases: (1) after general anesthesia induction, (2) after initiation of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), and (3) after weaning from CPB.

RESULTS: No statistically significant differences were observed in A-wave pressure, X-descent pressure, or mean CVP values measured from the distal and proximal lumens after general anesthesia induction or after weaning from CPB. The distal lumen showed significantly lower pressure than the proximal lumen after CPB initiation.

CONCLUSIONS: Our findings revealed no significant difference in the CVP values between the proximal and distal lumens of the CVC in small pediatric patients; moreover, the proximal lumen provided reliable CVP values, even during CPB. These findings support connecting the CVP line to the proximal lumen, offering the great advantage of early detection of CVC slippage through changes in the CVP values and waveforms.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: This study was registered in the UMIN Clinical Trials Registry (registration number: UMIN000052944).

PMID:41805088 | DOI:10.1002/pan.70166