Isolated systolic hypertension

Introduction. Isolated systolic hypertension constitutes an important cardiovascular health problem, particularly in older adults, due to its association with aging and arterial stiffness. Although it has traditionally been associated with advanced age, its presence in young adults is also currently recognized, in whom different pathophysiological mechanisms may be involved. Its progression is usually asymptomatic, which may delay diagnosis and contribute to the development of target-organ damage and cardiovascular complications. Objective. To analyze the available scientific evidence on isolated systolic hypertension. Methodology. A non-experimental, documentary, descriptive-level study was conducted using a narrative literature review approach. A search for scientific literature was conducted in databases and specialized academic sources, prioritizing recent publications. The selected documents were critically reviewed and organized according to the categories established in the research objectives, followed by a narrative synthesis of the main findings. Results. The reviewed evidence showed that isolated systolic hypertension is strongly associated with increased arterial stiffness and loss of vascular elasticity, particularly during aging. In young adults, heterogeneous phenotypes were identified, including forms associated with hemodynamic alterations and peripheral amplification of systolic blood pressure. Likewise, the evidence demonstrated that lifestyle modifications and appropriate pharmacological treatment reduce the risk of cardiovascular events. Therefore, therapeutic targets should be individualized according to age, comorbidities, frailty, and cardiovascular risk. Conclusion. Isolated systolic hypertension is a clinically relevant condition whose management requires moving beyond the consideration of systolic blood pressure as an isolated finding and understanding the vascular and hemodynamic mechanisms underlying it. Early identification, comprehensive cardiovascular risk assessment, and individualized treatment are essential to prevent complications and improve prognosis. General Area of Study: Medicine. Specific area of study: Cardiology. Type of study: Narrative review.

Angie Alexandra Azúa Arteaga, Rosselyn Nahely Tumbaco Montesdeoca, María Katherine Garcés Andrade, Gissel Monserrath Tamayo Salguero

6-23

Polyethylene fiber versus short glass fiber as biomimetic substitutes for dentin: a systematic review and critical synthesis of biomechanical evidence

Introduction. Dentin is a complex tissue; therefore, the biomimetic approach aims to restore its mechanical function, particularly load transfer, energy dissipation, and crack control. SFRCs and Ribbond employ different reinforcement architectures: SFRCs deflect and arrest cracks, whereas Ribbond redistributes loads and provides structural containment. Objective. To critically compare the biomechanical behavior of short glass fiber-reinforced composites (SFRCs) and polyethylene fiber-reinforced composites, with emphasis on their ability to restore dentin-related functions rather than on presumed compositional equivalence. Methodology. A systematic synthesis of experimental and clinical studies on Ribbond/UHMWPE and SFRCs was conducted, with priority given to permanent teeth. Methodological quality was assessed using RoBDEMAT and appropriate risk-of-bias tools. The substantial heterogeneity across studies precluded a global meta-analysis. Results. Contemporary evidence indicates that both systems increase fracture resistance compared with non-reinforced composites, without demonstrating universal superiority of either approach. Direct comparisons have yielded variable results, and a 2026 study found no significant difference between SFRCs (2132.9 ± 169.5 N) and Ribbond (2084.5 ± 177.2 N). SFRCs provide multidirectional short fibers that deflect and arrest cracks, whereas polyethylene fibers act as continuous reinforcement that redistributes loads and bridges cracks. Conclusion. The evidence does not demonstrate universal superiority of SFRCs or polyethylene fibers. Both increase fracture resistance and may promote more repairable failure patterns. General Field of Study: Health Sciences. Specific Field of Study: Dentistry. General Type of study: Narrative systematic review.

Roba Izzeddin Abou

24-43