(1) Background: this study aimed to evaluate the worries, anxiety, and depression in the public during the initial coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic lockdown in three culturally different groups of internet survey respondents: Middle Eastern (Israel), European (Poland), and North American (Canada). (2) Methods: a cross-sectional online survey was conducted in the mentioned countries during the lockdown periods. The survey included a demographic questionnaire, a questionnaire on personal concerns, and the Patient Health Questionnaire-4 (PHQ-4). A total of 2207 people successfully completed the survey. (3) Results: Polish respondents were the most concerned about being infected. Canadian respondents worried the most about their finances, relations with relatives and friends, and both physical and mental health. Polish respondents worried the least about their physical health, and Israeli respondents worried the least about their mental health and relations with relatives and friends. Canadian respondents obtained the highest score in the PHQ-4, while the scores of Israeli respondents were the lowest. (4) Conclusions: various factors should be considered while formulating appropriate solutions in emergency circumstances such as a pandemic. Understanding these factors will aid in the development of strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of stress, social isolation, and uncertainty on the well-being and mental health of culturally different societies.
1 January 2024 in Therapeutic Advances in Chronic Disease
Growth factors were introduced to increase predictability in periodontal regeneration and have since been widely applied in dentistry. This narrative review article highlights histological and latest findings of recombinant human platelet-derived growth factor-BB (rhPDGF-BB) and recombinant human fibroblast growth factor-2 (rhFGF-2) for periodontal regeneration. rhPDGF-BB enhances the proliferation and chemotaxis of periodontal ligament and alveolar bone cells. The optimal dose for rhPDGF-BB, in combination with beta-tricalcium phosphate, is 0.3 mg/ml. It is approved in the United States, Canada, and Taiwan for use in periodontal regeneration and treatment of gingival recession. rhFGF-2 promotes periodontal wound healing through mitogenic and angiogenic effects on mesenchymal cells in the periodontal ligament. It is approved in Japan at an optimal dose of 0.3% for periodontal regeneration in intrabony defects. Both recombinant growth factors show histological evidence of new bone, cementum, and periodontal ligament. Clinical studies demonstrate improved clinical attachment levels and defect resolution for treating intrabony and furcation periodontal defects. Presented clinical cases and consensus reports may serve as a reference for clinicians. rhPDGF-BB and rhFGF-2 are safe and effective biologics that can be applied to improve the outcomes of periodontal regeneration.