Exploring the concept of disease control in chronic cough.

Background: Disease control in chronic diseases is an overarching concept that reflects the degree to which the goals of therapy are met. However, to date, there is no consensus on the definition of disease control in chronic cough. This study aimed to provide a conceptual exploration of patient-reported cough control in chronic cough. Methods: This research is comprised of two subanalyses. First, patients with chronic cough receiving care at referral clinics were evaluated. Correlation analyses were performed between patient-reported cough control (a 5-point Likert scale), cough-specific patient-reported outcomes (PROs) and generic health PRO scores. Second, a survey was conducted among patients with refractory chronic cough and physicians to identify factors pertinent to cough control. Results: The analysis of 341 patients (mean age: 55.5±15.1 years; female: 66.6%) revealed that cough control rating was moderately correlated with cough severity visual analogue scale and Leicester Cough Questionnaire scores, while demonstrating weaker correlations with cough-associated throat symptoms, cough-related complications or general health-related quality of life (QoL). In the survey of patients and physicians, both groups considered certain factors, such as cough frequency, severity and impact on QoL, to be relevant to the concept of cough control. However, patients rated "need for cough rescue drug" notably higher than physicians. Conclusion: Patient-reported cough control was associated with cough severity or impact on QoL; however, cough control may not be fully captured by conventional cough PRO measurement tools. Further studies are warranted to define the consensus and tools to measure disease control in chronic cough.

Functional connectivity of the amygdala in relation to high stress and low mindfulness.

BACKGROUND: High psychological stress has been associated with several brain functional changes, including functional connectivity (FC) alterations in regions such as the prefrontal cortex and the amygdala. This study explored FC alterations associated with high perceived stress, and also investigated whether these neuroimaging features were correlated with low levels of mindfulness. METHODS: This study included 29 adults (12 males and 17 females; mean age: 27.6 ± 3.2) who complained of moderate or higher perceived stress and 31 adults (17 males and 14 females; mean age: 29.2 ± 7.2) who complained of low-level stress on the questionnaire scale. Seed-based resting-state FC analysis was conducted to compare between high and low stress groups. The dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), the ventromedial prefrontal cortex (VMPFC) and the amygdala were selected as seeds. RESULTS: High stress group showed weaker left amygdala-based FC in the left cerebellum crus II and the left orbitofrontal cortex compared with low stress group. High stress group had weaker FC between the left DLPFC and the left inferior parietal lobule. On the contrary, high stress group had stronger FC between the left VMPFC and the left caudate compared with low stress group. Weaker FC between the amygdala and the cerebellum crus II was correlated with lower level of awareness facet of mindfulness. CONCLUSIONS: Those with high perceived stress showed low levels of mindfulness and several FC alterations centered on the prefrontal cortex and amygdala. Our findings also suggest that weak amygdala-based FC alterations associated with high psychological stress are related to low-level awareness facet of mindfulness.

Polymer Hosts Containing Carbazole-Dibenzothiophene-Based Pendants for Application in High-Performance Solution-Processed TADF-OLEDs.

The film-forming capability of the host plays a crucial role in effectively forming a light-emitting layer through a solution process in organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs). In this study, we synthesized two side-chain polymer hosts, PCz-DBT and P2Cz-DBT, consisting of carbazole and dibenzothiophene. The synthesis was carried out through radical polymerization using styrene-based host monomers. Their photophysical characteristics and molecular energy levels are similar to those of the reference small molecule hosts, namely, Cz-DBT and 2Cz-DBT. However, compared to the small-molecule hosts Cz-DBT and 2Cz-DBT, the two polymer hosts showed high thermal stability and good film-forming properties in the neat and host-emitter blend films. Specifically, bluish-green multiple-resonance (MR) thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) OLEDs, fabricated via solution processing with an emissive layer based on P2Cz-DBT, exhibited remarkable performance. These devices achieved a maximum external quantum efficiency of 17.4% without utilizing a hole transport layer. This polymer host design strategy is considered to significantly contribute to enhancing the performance of TADF-OLEDs fabricated through solution processing.

Doctor shopping trend of patients before undergoing rotator cuff repair in Korea: a multicenter study.

BACKGROUND: This study aims to investigate the trend of doctor shopping among patients with rotator cuff tear (RCT) before undergoing surgery and to examine the relevance of these findings to the public. METHODS: A survey was conducted of 326 patients from 10 hospitals (male, 176; female, 150) who underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR) for symptomatic RCT between September 2019 and February 2020. A questionnaire was used to obtain data regarding the type of medical care service, medical institutions visited before surgery, number of treatments received, and cost of treatment. RESULTS: A total of 326 patients (87%) received treatment at least once at another medical institution before visiting the hospital where the surgery was performed. Patients visited an average of 9.4 health providers or physicians for shoulder pain before visiting the hospital where surgery was performed. Among the 326 patients, 148 (45%) visited more than two medical institutions and spent an average of 641,983 Korean won (KRW; $466, 50,000-5,000,000 KRW) before surgery. Medical expenses before surgery were proportional to the number of medical institutions visited (P=0.002), symptom duration (P=0.002), and initial visual analog scale (VAS) pain score (P=0.007) but were not associated with sex, age, VAS pain score immediately before surgery, or RCT size. CONCLUSIONS: Medical expense before ARCR was associated with the severity of preoperative pain and duration of symptoms. After onset of shoulder symptoms, patients should visit as soon as possible a hospital that has surgeons who specialize in shoulder repair to prevent unnecessary medical expense and proper treatment. Level of evidence: IV.

Effect of intramolecular energy transfer in a dual-functional molecular dyad on the performance of solution-processed TADF OLEDs.

This paper introduces the design concept of a dual-functional molecular dyad tailored specifically for solution-processable organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs). Cy-tmCPBN, characterized by an asymmetric molecular dyad structure, integrates a host unit (tmCP) and a multiple-resonance (MR) emitter (CzBN) via a non-conjugated cyclohexane linker. Cy-tmCPBN exhibited efficient intramolecular energy transfers (EnTs) from tmCP to the CzBN unit, as confirmed by time-resolved fluorescence experiments. The fluorescence lifetime of the tmCP unit was approximately three times shorter in a highly diluted solution of Cy-tmCPBN than in a mixed solution of Cy-tmCP and Cy-CzBN. In addition, Cy-tmCPBN exhibited excellent solubility and film-forming ability, making it suitable for solution processing. Notably, OLEDs utilizing Cy-tmCPBN achieved over twice the brightness and improved external quantum efficiency of 12.3% compared to OLEDs using Cy-CzBN with the same concentration of CzBN in the emitting layer. The improved OLED performance can be explained by the increased EnT efficiency from Cy-tmCP to Cy-tmCPBN and the intramolecular EnT within Cy-tmCPBN. In our dual-functional dyad, incorporating both host and emitter units in an asymmetric molecular dyad structure, we induced a positive synergy effect with the host moiety, enhancing OLED performance through intramolecular EnT.

Randomized controlled trial on the efficacy of a custom-made, fully guided implant system for flapless crestal sinus floor elevation: Accuracy and patient-reported outcomes.

OBJECTIVE: To compare fully guided flapless implant surgery using a light-cured surgical guide (FG group) with partially guided open flap surgery (PG group) in the posterior maxilla when performing simultaneous sinus floor elevation in terms of the accuracy, time requirements, and patient/clinician-reported outcomes (PROMs and CROMs). MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this study, 56 tissue-level implants were placed with crestal sinus floor elevation in 56 patients at single-tooth sites, with 28 implants allocated to the PG group and 28 to the FG group. The deviations of the placed implants from the virtually planned positions were measured at the implant platform and apex and for the angular deviation. The presurgical preparation time and the duration of surgery were measured. PROMs and CROMs were made by administering questionnaires at multiple time points. RESULTS: Horizontal deviations at the platform and apex and the angular deviation were significantly smaller in the FG group than the PG group (p < .05). Presurgical preparation and surgery times were significantly shorter in the FG group (p < .001). Patient satisfaction and willingness to receive repeat treatment were significantly better in the FG group than in the PG group (p < .005 and .025, respectively). Clinicians were more satisfied in the FG group than the PG group (p < .05). CONCLUSION: When placing an implant with sinus floor elevation, the flapless approach using a fully guided surgical system can be more accurate, faster, and increase the satisfaction of both the clinician and patient compared to the partially guided surgery.

Intracellular infection of Cutibacterium acnes in macrophages of extensive peri-implantitis lesions: A clinical case series.

Cutibacterium acnes is a facultative anaerobic, gram-positive rod, and a commensal bacterium of the body surface including oral cavity. A causal relationship between C. acnes and chronic granulomatous diseases, such as sarcoidosis and orthopedic implant-associated infections, has been previously reported. Typically, C. acnes has been observed inside macrophages, allowing evasion of host immunity, and triggering a persistent inflammatory response. However, such findings have not been reported in peri-implantitis lesions. In this case series, we collected inflamed tissues from extensive peri-implantitis lesions of eight patients. Out of the eight samples, seven tested positive for the 16 s rRNA gene of C. acnes by polymerase chain reaction, and six were positive by immunohistochemistry. Immunohistochemical staining revealed the presence of C. acnes in the cytoplasm of macrophages, suggesting a role in lesion formation. This finding may enhance our understanding of the pathophysiology of persistent peri-implantitis lesions and provide implications for future therapy.

Continuous Template Growth of Large-Scale Tellurene Films on 1T'-MoTe2.

Use of a template triggers an epitaxial interaction with the depositing material during synthesis. Recent studies have demonstrated that two-dimensional tellurium (tellurene) can be directionally oriented when grown on transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) templates. Specifically, employing a T-phase TMD, such as WTe2, restricts the growth direction even further due to its anisotropic nature, which allows for the synthesis of well-oriented tellurene films. Despite this, producing large-area epitaxial films still remains a significant challenge. Here, we report the continuous synthesis of a 1T'-MoTe2 template via chemical vapor deposition and tellurene via vapor transport. The interaction between helical Te and the 1T'-MoTe2 template facilitates the Te chains to collapse into ribbon shapes, enhancing lateral growth at a rate approximately 6 times higher than in the vertical direction, as confirmed by scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy. Interestingly, despite the predominance of the lateral growth, cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy analysis of the tellurene ribbons revealed a consistent 60-degree incline at the edges. This suggests that the edges of the tellurene ribbons, where they contact the template surface, are favorable sites for additional Te absorption, which then stacks along the incline angle to expand. Furthermore, controlling the synthesis temperature, duration, and preheating time has facilitated the successful synthesis of tellurene films. The resultant tellurene exhibited hole mobility as high as ∼400 cm2/V s. After removing the underlying metallic template with plasma treatment, the film showed a current on/off ratio of ∼103. This ratio was confirmed by two-terminal field-effect transistor measurements and supported by near-field terahertz (THz) spectroscopy mapping.

In vivo experimental study comparing alveolar ridge preservation versus guided bone regeneration after unassisted socket healing at intact and damaged sites in narrow alveolar ridges.

BACKGROUND: To compare bone regeneration and dimensional alteration of alveolar ridge at intact and damaged extraction sockets after alveolar ridge preservation (ARP) and implant placement versus unassisted socket healing followed by guided bone regeneration (GBR) with simultaneous implant placement. METHODS: In 6 beagle dogs, 3 types of extraction sockets in the mandible were created: (1) intact sockets, (2) 1-wall defect sockets and (3) 2-wall defect sockets. The sockets were allocated to undergo either (1) ARP and implant placement 8 weeks later (ARP group) or (2) GBR with simultaneous implant placement after 8 weeks of unassisted socket healing (GBR group). After an additional healing period of 8 weeks, bone regeneration and dimensional changes were evaluated radiographically and histologically. RESULTS: GBR showed superior bone formation and greater bone gains compared to ARP, regardless of the initial extraction-socket configuration. Although ARP maintained the preexisting alveolar ridge dimensions, peri-implant bone defects were still detected at 8 weeks of follow-up. Histomorphometric analyses confirmed that GBR increased dimensions of the alveolar ridge compared to baseline, and the augmentation and bone regeneration were greater with GBR than with ARP. CONCLUSION: Early implant placement with ARP can mitigate alveolar ridge changes in the narrow alveolar ridge. However, early implant placement with simultaneous GBR creates the conditions for enhanced bone regeneration around the implant and greater ridge augmentation compared to ARP, irrespective of the extraction-socket configuration.

Does an untreated peri-implant dehiscence defect affect the progression of peri-implantitis?: A preclinical in vivo experimental study.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the early impact of plaque accumulation in a buccal dehiscence defect on peri-implant marginal bone resorption. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In six male Mongrel dogs, four dental implants were placed in the posterior maxilla on both sides (two implants per side). Based on the group allocation, each implant was randomly assigned to one of the following four groups to decide whether buccal dehiscence defect was prepared and whether silk ligation was applied at 8 weeks post-implant placement for peri-implantitis induction: UC (no defect without ligation); UD (defect without ligation); LC (no defect with ligation); and LD (defect with ligation) groups. Eight weeks after disease induction, the outcomes from radiographic and histologic analyses were statistically analyzed (p < .05). RESULTS: Based on radiographs, the exposed area of implant threads was smallest in group UC (p < .0083). Based on histology, both the distances from the implant platform to the first bone-to-implant contact point and to the bone crest were significantly longer in the LD group (p < .0083). In the UD group, some spontaneous bone fill occurred from the base of the defect at 8 weeks after implant placement. The apical extension of inflammatory cell infiltrate was significantly more prominent in the LD and LC groups compared to the UC group (p < .0083). CONCLUSION: Plaque accumulated on the exposed implant surface had a negative impact on maintaining the peri-implant marginal bone level, especially when there was a dehiscence defect around the implant.

Effect of Membrane Fixation and the Graft Combinations on Horizontal Bone Regeneration: Radiographic and Histologic Outcomes in a Canine Model.

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of membrane fixation and combinations of bone substitute materials and barrier membranes on horizontal bone regeneration in peri-implant defects. Eight mongrel dogs underwent chronic buccal peri-implant dehiscence defects creation and were randomized into 4 groups: (a) deproteinized bovine bone mineral 1 (DBBM1) with a native collagen membrane (CM) (BB group, positive control group), (b) DBBM1 with native CM and 2 fixation pins (BBP group), (c) DBBM2 with a cross-linked CM (XC group), and (d) DBBM2 with cross-linked CM and 2 fixation pins (XCP group). Following 16 weeks of healing, tissues were radiographically and histomorphometrically analyzed. The total augmented area was significantly larger in the BBP, XC, and XCP groups compared to the BB group (4.27 ± 3.21, 7.17 ± 7.23, and 6.91 ± 5.45 mm2 versus 1.35 ± 1.28 mm2, respectively; P = 0.022). No significant difference for the augmented tissue thickness was observed among the 4 groups. The augmented tissue thickness measured at 3 mm below the implant shoulder was higher in BBP, XC, and XCP than that in BB (2.43 ± 1.53, 2.62 ± 1.80, and 3.18 ± 1.96 mm versus 0.80 ± 0.90 mm, respectively), trending toward significance (P = 0.052). DBBM2 and a cross-linked CM were significantly more favorable for horizontal bone regeneration compared to DBBM1 and a native CM. However, when DBBM1 and a native CM were secured with fixation pins, outcomes were similar. The addition of pins did not lead to more favorable outcomes when a cross-linked CM was used.

Synchrotron Analysis of Damaged Extraction Sockets Augmented Using a Synthetic Bone Block: A Pilot Study.

This study aimed to investigate the dimensional stability and quality of the alveolar ridge augmented using a synthetic bone block (SBB) at damaged extraction sockets. Four participants were included, and socket augmentation was performed using SBB and a collagen membrane. Intraoral and CBCT scans were performed before extraction (baseline), immediately postoperative (IP), and at 6 months postoperative (6M). At 6M, a trephine biopsy sample was obtained during implant placement, and the sample was observed using synchrotron. Soft tissue profile changes were assessed using profilometric analysis of the intraoral scan data, while dimensional changes in hard tissue were evaluated based on CBCT measurements. Bone quality was analyzed using synchrotron imaging. There were minimal changes in the soft tissue profile between baseline and IP, baseline and 6M, and IP and 6M (0.11 ± 1.08 mm3, 0.02 ± 0.8 mm3, and -0.65 ± 0.82 mm3, respectively). Horizontal bone width was measured at 1-mm increments from the augmented bone crest to 5 mm apically and revealed only a slight reduction (< 1 mm) at all levels between IP and 6M. The augmented bone height was well maintained from IP until 6M (-0.21 ± 0.53 mm). Synchrotron analysis revealed low to moderate bone quality after 6M (percentage of new bone: 16.49% ± 4.91%). Socket augmentation using SBB appears to be a viable technique for regenerating damaged extraction sockets, with the augmented ridge dimensions maintained up to 6M. Further long-term randomized clinical trials are needed.

The impact of bone marrow stimulation on arthroscopic rotator cuff repair for small to large rotator cuff tears: a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Bone marrow stimulation (BMS), a procedure involving the creation of multiple channels in the greater tuberosity, is often performed alongside arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR). This study evaluated the effect of BMS on clinical and structural outcomes following ARCR. METHOD: This study involved 204 patients with small, medium, and large full-thickness rotator cuff tears. In all, 103 patients who underwent BMS and ARCR made up the BMS group, while the 101 patients who only had ARCR made up the control group with randomization. Clinical and functional outcomes were assessed before and at 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years after surgery, using parameters such as range of motion, functional scores (American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons and Constant score), and clinical scores (Visual Analogue Scale). Tendon integrity was also examined postoperatively via ultrasound at 6 months and 2 years. RESULTS: There were no significant differences between the two groups concerning range of motion, functional scores (American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score and Constant score), and clinical score (Visual Analogue Scale) during the 2-year postsurgery period (all P > .05). Similarly, the rotator cuff retear rate, as assessed using ultrasonographic tendon integrity checks over 2 years postsurgery, did not significantly vary between the groups (all P > .05). CONCLUSION: There were no significant disparities in functional scores and clinical outcomes between the BMS and control groups. Further, no significant differences were observed in tendon integrity postsurgery. Therefore, the inclusion or exclusion of BMS is not anticipated to influence the postoperative outcome in ARCR for patients with small, medium, or large rotator cuff tears.

Effect of Home-Based Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation on Cognitive Function in Patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Two-Week Intervention.

PURPOSE: Repeated transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is expected to have the potential to improve cognitive function in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of at-home tDCS for elderly patients with MCI. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients aged 60-80 years, who maintained normal daily living but reported objective memory impairments, were enrolled. Active or sham stimulations were applied to the dorsal frontal cortex (left: anode; right: cathode) at home for 2 weeks. Changes in cognitive function were assessed using visual recognition tasks and the Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE), and safety and efficacy were assessed using self-reports and a remote monitoring application. RESULTS: Of the 19 participants enrolled, 12 participants were included in the efficacy analysis. Response times and MMSE scores significantly improved after active stimulation compared to the sham stimulation; however, there were no significant differences in the proportion of correct responses. The mean compliance of the efficacy group was 97.5%±4.1%. Three participants experienced burns, but no permanent sequelae remained. CONCLUSION: This preliminary result suggests that home-based tDCS may be a promising treatment option for MCI patients; however, it requires more attention and technological development to address safety concerns. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: Clinical Research Information Service (CRIS), KCT0002721.

Nationwide survey of Helicobacter pylori seropositivity and gastric atrophy in Zambia.

BACKGROUND: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a common bacterial infection which predominately drives upper gastrointestinal pathology. We carried out a nationwide serological survey in response to the deficiency of robust African data on H. pylori prevalence, age of acquisition, socio-geographic determinants, and impact on gastric physiology. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study of archival plasma samples collected during the Zambia Population-based HIV impact Assessment (ZAMPHIA) 2016 survey. ZAMPHIA used a two-stage door-to-door stratified cluster sample approach to collect samples from adults and children from age 0 to 59 years (n = 24,266). We randomly retrieved one fifth of these samples from each of Zambia's 10 provinces and used ELISA to test for H. pylori IgG antibodies, pepsinogen 1 and 2 and gastrin-17. A pepsinogen 1:2 ratio of <3 was used to define gastric atrophy. RESULTS: The analysis of 4050 plasma samples (30% <16 years, 53% females) revealed an overall H. pylori seroprevalence of 79%. By the age of 10 years, more than 75% of the children had H. pylori. Urban residence was associated with increased odds (OR 1.8, 95% CI 1.5-2.2, p < 0.001) and HIV infection was associated with reduced odds (OR 0.7, 95% CI 0.5-0.9, p = 0.02) of H. pylori seropositivity. Gastric atrophy was detected in 6% of H. pylori seropositive adults below 45 years of age and 9% in those between 45 and 59 years. CONCLUSIONS: We have confirmed a high prevalence of H. pylori seropositivity in Zambia, predominantly in urban settings. The prevalence of gastric atrophy is broadly consistent with other populations around the globe, but our sample did not include adults over 60 years.

Photoluminescence of MoS2 on Plasmonic Gold Nanoparticles Depending on the Aggregate Size.

Transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) are promising candidates for ultrathin functional semiconductor devices. In particular, incorporating plasmonic nanoparticles into TMD-based devices enhances the light-matter interaction for increased absorption efficiency and enables control of device performance such as electronic, electrical, and optical properties. In this heterohybrid structure, manipulating the number of TMD layers and the aggregate size of plasmonic nanoparticles is a straightforward approach to tailoring device performance. In this study, we use photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy, which is a commonly employed technique for monitoring device performance, to analyze the changes in electronic and optical properties depending on the number of MoS2 layers and the size of the gold nanoparticle (AuNP) aggregate under nonresonant and resonant excitation conditions. The PL intensity in monolayer MoS2/AuNPs increases as the size of aggregates increases irrespective of the excitation conditions. The strain induced by AuNPs causes a red shift, but as the aggregates grow larger, the effect of p-doping increases and the blue shift becomes prominent. In multilayer MoS2/AuNPs, quenched PL intensity is observed under nonresonant excitation, while enhancement is noted under resonant excitation, which is mainly contributed by p-doping and LSPR, respectively. Remarkably, the alteration in the spectral shape due to resonant excitation is evident solely in small aggregates of AuNPs across all layers.

Barium molybdate up-conversion nanoscale particles with IR-LED chip, temperature sensing, and anti-counterfeiting applications.

Barium molybdate nanoparticles exhibiting up-conversion luminescence were synthesized via the solvothermal method. Analysis revealed a prominent signal corresponding to the (112) plane in the XRD pattern, indicating the tetragonal structure of the synthesized nanoparticles. Raman spectroscopy detected the symmetric stretching frequencies of MoO4. When excited at 980 nm, the nanoparticles emitted a green spectrum with peaks at 532 and 553 nm. The luminescence intensity varied with the excitation light source, supporting the mechanism involving energy transfer from Yb-doped Er ions via the two-photon effect of the up-conversion phosphor. Moreover, the synthesized nanoparticles exhibited diminished luminous intensity with increasing temperature, suggesting potential for flexible composite sensor fabrication. Integration with a 980 nm LED chip yielded a green emission color. Furthermore, when applied to banknotes, plastic cards, fabrics, and artwork, the opaque solution mixed with polymers remained invisible to the naked eye; however, under 980 nm laser irradiation, the distinct green color became apparent, offering a viable approach for anti-counterfeiting measures.

Immediate loading of definitive restorations in partially edentulous patients requiring an implant-supported prosthesis: A scoping review.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: Interest is growing in immediately loading definitive implant-supported prostheses. However, it appears that implant protocols are evolving faster than their scientific validation. PURPOSE: The purpose of this scoping review was to identify the current trends, feasibility, and clinical outcomes of a specific clinical loading scenario (type A), where a single definitive implant-retained restoration is delivered within 3 days. The focus question was "In partially edentulous patients requiring an implant-retained prosthesis (population), is immediate loading with a definitive restoration (concept) a viable treatment option (context)?" MATERIAL AND METHODS: An electronic search was conducted in the PubMed, CENTRAL, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science databases. Two authors independently reviewed the studies, screened titles and abstracts, and performed full-text analysis. Cross-reference checks within the bibliography of included studies, relevant reviews, and guideline were conducted. Bibliometric information and study details were extracted. RESULTS: The search identified 2568 titles after removing duplicates. Four studies involving 91 participant and 100 implant-retained restorations were included in this scoping review. The selected articles were a randomized controlled trial (RCT), a prospective clinical study, and the remaining 2 were case series. The follow-up periods investigated ranged from 6 to 26 months. All studies evaluated marginal bone loss as a primary outcome, and only 1 implant failure was reported. Patient-reported outcome measures were favorable, and no major biological or technical complications were reported in any study. CONCLUSIONS: Immediate loading with a definitive restoration within 3 days appears to be a suitable approach in specific clinical situations.

A 10-Gene Signature to Predict the Prognosis of Early-Stage Triple-Negative Breast Cancer.

Purpose: Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a particularly challenging subtype of breast cancer, with a poorer prognosis compared to other subtypes. Unfortunately, unlike luminal type cancers, there is no validated biomarker to predict the prognosis of patients with early-stage TNBC. Accurate biomarkers are needed to establish effective therapeutic strategies. Materials and Methods: In this study, we analyzed gene expression profiles of tumor samples from 184 TNBC patients (training cohort, n=76; validation cohort, n=108) using RNA sequencing. Results: By combining weighted gene expression, we identified a 10-gene signature (DGKH, GADD45B, KLF7, LYST, NR6A1, PYCARD, ROBO1, SLC22A20P, SLC24A3, and SLC45A4) that stratified patients by risk score with high sensitivity (92.31%), specificity (92.06%), and accuracy (92.11%) for invasive disease-free survival. The 10-gene signature was validated in a separate institution cohort and supported by meta-analysis for biological relevance to well-known driving pathways in TNBC. Furthermore, the 10-gene signature was the only independent factor for invasive disease-free survival in multivariate analysis when compared to other potential biomarkers of TNBC molecular subtypes and T-cell receptor ß diversity. 10-gene signature also further categorized patients classified as molecular subtypes according to risk scores. Conclusion: Our novel findings may help address the prognostic challenges in TNBC and the 10-gene signature could serve as a novel biomarker for risk-based patient care.

Immediate loading on two adjacent single dental implants with definitive nonsplinted restorations: A proof of concept in the posterior zone.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate clinical, clinician- and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) of two adjacent single posterior implants immediately loaded with definitive single crowns up to 1 year. Ten patients in need of two adjacent posterior single implants were included. All implants were placed applying a fully digital workflow. Definitive screw-retained single zirconia crowns were delivered within 72 h after implant placement. Clinical parameters, patient- and clinician-reported outcomes were assessed up to 1 year of follow-up. CLINICAL CONSIDERATIONS: Clinical outcomes remained stable, with no implant failures or technical and biological complications throughout the observation period. Patient satisfaction was very high at baseline (crown delivery) and remained consistently high at 6 and 12 months of follow-up. Crown insertion 3 days after implant placement was rated as an easy procedure by clinicians. CONCLUSIONS: Two adjacent single implants with immediate definitive restorations (<72 h) in the posterior region appear to be a viable and easy treatment option to shorten the overall treatment time and potentially enhancing patient satisfaction. However, randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm the advantages of this treatment protocol over a delayed loading approach. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: In selected cases, immediate implant loading with definitive restorations in the posterior region appears a valuable and straightforward option to shorten the overall treatment time.