Search

Aim: To explore the existing salivary, gingival crevicular fluid (GCF), blood, and serum biomarkers associated with grade C molar-incisor pattern (C/MIP) periodontitis in systemically healthy children and young adults. Materials and methods: Cross-sectional, case–control, and cohort studies on stage III grade C periodontitis or former equivalent diagnosis with analysis of molecular biomarkers in saliva, GCF, blood, or serum were retrieved from six databases and screened based on the eligibility criteria. The risk of bias in included studies was evaluated. Meta-analysis was planned for biomarkers assessed using the same detection methods and sample type in at least two papers. Results: Out of 5621 studies identified at initial screening, 28 papers were included in the qualitative analysis of which 2 were eligible for meta-analysis for IgG in serum samples. Eighty-seven biomarkers were assessed with the majority being higher in cases than in controls. Only the meta-analysis of total serum IgG with low heterogeneity value revealed a significant increase in its levels in C/MIPs compared to controls (standardised mean difference: 1.08; 95% CI: 0.76, 1.40). Conclusion: There is a paucity of data on biomarkers associated with molar-incisor pattern periodontitis. Although serum IgG levels are raised, other more specific biomarkers in saliva, GCF, and blood/serum may be promising but require further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vaccination remains the best strategy against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in terms of prevention. The efficacy and safety of COVID-19 vaccines is supported by well-designed clinical trials that recruited many participants. It is well-known that vaccination is associated with local side effects related to the injection site, and mild, systemic side effects. However, there has been an increase in the occurrence of what is known as infrequent adverse effects in the population of vaccinated individuals in real life. We present the case of a 46-year-old woman with no past medical history, who presented with a sharp chest pain with deep inspiration, a few days after receiving the third dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 mRNA vaccine (BNT162b2). There is an association between the BNT16b2 vaccination and myocarditis, pericarditis, and even bilateral pleural effusions. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report featuring a unilateral pleural effusion in a patient with no known past medical history, who did not develop cardiac involvement nor have any viral infection. The aim of our report is to inform health professionals of the possibility of encountering this rare adverse event in their daily practice, as the population of individuals who are receiving additional vaccine doses is increasing steadily. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnetic metal–organic frameworks (MMOFs) are gaining increased attention as emerging adsorbents/water remediation agents. Herein, a facile development of novel MMOFs comprised of coated ferrite nanoparticles (MNPs) and UiO-66 metal–organic framework is reported. In specific, coated Co- and Zn-doped ferrite magnetic nanoparticles were synthesized as building block while the metal–organic framework was grown in the presence of MNPs via a semi-self-assembly approach. The utilization of coated MNPs facilitated the conjugation and stands as a novel strategy for fabricating MMOFs with increased stability and an explicit structure. MMOFs were isolated with 13–25 nm crystallites sizes, 244–332 m2/g specific surface area (SSA) and 22–42 emu/g saturation magnetization values. Establishing the UiO-66 framework via the reported semi-self-assembly resulted in roughly 70% reduction in both magnetic properties and SSA, compared with the initial MNPs building blocks and UiO-66 framework, respectively. Nonetheless, the remaining 30% of the magnetization and SSA was adequate for successful and sufficient adsorption of two different pesticides, 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) and 2,4,5-Trichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4,5-T), while the recovery with a commercial magnet and reuse were also found to be effective. Adsorption and kinetic studies for all three MMOFs and both pesticides were performed, and data were fitted to Langmuir–Freundlich isotherm models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Central Andes in northwestern Argentina are characterized by steep topographic and climatic gradients. The humid foreland areas at 1 km asl elevation rapidly rise to over 5 km in the eastern Cordillera, and they form an orographic rainfall barrier on the eastern windward side. This topographic setting combined with seasonal moisture transport through the South American monsoon system leads to intense rainstorms with cascading effects such as landsliding and flooding. In order to better quantify the dynamics of water vapour transport, we use high-temporal-resolution global navigation satellite system (GNSS) remote sensing techniques. We are particularly interested in better understanding the dynamics of high-magnitude storms with high water vapour amounts that have destructive effects on human infrastructure. We used an existing GNSS station network with 12 years of time series data, and we installed two new ground stations along the climatic gradient and collected GNSS time series data for three years. For several stations we calculated the GNSS signal delay gradient to determine water vapour transport direction. Our statistical analysis combines in situ rainfall measurements and ERA5 reanalysis data to reveal the water vapour transport mechanism for the study area. The results show a strong relationship between altitude and the water vapour content, as well as between the transportation pathways and the topography. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To assess the beneficial and adverse effects on the dental and periodontal issues of periodontal-orthodontic treatment of teeth with pathological tooth flaring, drifting, and elongation in patients with severe periodontitis. Materials and methods: Nine databases were searched in April 2020 for randomized/non-randomized clinical studies. After duplicate study selection, data extraction, and risk-of-bias assessment, random-effect meta-analyses of mean differences (MDs) and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were performed, followed by subgroup/meta-regression analyses. Results: A total of 30 randomized and non-randomized clinical studies including 914 patients (29.7% male; mean age 43.4 years) were identified. Orthodontic treatment of pathologically migrated teeth was associated with clinical attachment gain (-0.24 mm; seven studies), pocket probing depth reduction (-0.23 mm; seven studies), marginal bone gain (-0.36 mm; seven studies), and papilla height gain (-1.42 mm; two studies) without considerable adverse effects, while patient sex, gingival phenotype, baseline disease severity, interval between periodontal and orthodontic treatment, and orthodontic treatment duration affected the results. Greater marginal bone level gains were seen by additional circumferential fiberotomy (two studies; MD = -0.98 mm; 95% CI = -1.87 to -0.10 mm; p = .03), but the quality of evidence was low. Conclusions: Limited evidence of poor quality indicates that orthodontic treatment might be associated with small improvements of periodontal parameters, which do not seem to affect prognosis, but more research is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To assess the beneficial and adverse effects on the dental and periodontal issues of periodontal–orthodontic treatment of teeth with pathological tooth flaring, drifting, and elongation in patients with severe periodontitis. Materials and methods: Nine databases were searched in April 2020 for randomized/non‐randomized clinical studies. After duplicate study selection, data extraction, and risk‐of‐bias assessment, random‐effect meta‐analyses of mean differences (MDs) and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were performed, followed by subgroup/meta‐regression analyses. Results: A total of 30 randomized and non‐randomized clinical studies including 914 patients (29.7% male; mean age 43.4 years) were identified. Orthodontic treatment of pathologically migrated teeth was associated with clinical attachment gain (−0.24 mm; seven studies), pocket probing depth reduction (−0.23 mm; seven studies), marginal bone gain (−0.36 mm; seven studies), and papilla height gain (−1.42 mm; two studies) without considerable adverse effects, while patient sex, gingival phenotype, baseline disease severity, interval between periodontal and orthodontic treatment, and orthodontic treatment duration affected the results. Greater marginal bone level gains were seen by additional circumferential fiberotomy (two studies; MD = –0.98 mm; 95% CI = –1.87 to −0.10 mm; p =.03), but the quality of evidence was low. Conclusions: Limited evidence of poor quality indicates that orthodontic treatment might be associated with small improvements of periodontal parameters, which do not seem to affect prognosis, but more research is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To assess the beneficial and adverse effects on the dental and periodontal issues of periodontal–orthodontic treatment of teeth with pathological tooth flaring, drifting, and elongation in patients with severe periodontitis. Materials and methods: Nine databases were searched in April 2020 for randomized/non‐randomized clinical studies. After duplicate study selection, data extraction, and risk‐of‐bias assessment, random‐effect meta‐analyses of mean differences (MDs) and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were performed, followed by subgroup/meta‐regression analyses. Results: A total of 30 randomized and non‐randomized clinical studies including 914 patients (29.7% male; mean age 43.4 years) were identified. Orthodontic treatment of pathologically migrated teeth was associated with clinical attachment gain (−0.24 mm; seven studies), pocket probing depth reduction (−0.23 mm; seven studies), marginal bone gain (−0.36 mm; seven studies), and papilla height gain (−1.42 mm; two studies) without considerable adverse effects, while patient sex, gingival phenotype, baseline disease severity, interval between periodontal and orthodontic treatment, and orthodontic treatment duration affected the results. Greater marginal bone level gains were seen by additional circumferential fiberotomy (two studies; MD = –0.98 mm; 95% CI = –1.87 to −0.10 mm; p =.03), but the quality of evidence was low. Conclusions: Limited evidence of poor quality indicates that orthodontic treatment might be associated with small improvements of periodontal parameters, which do not seem to affect prognosis, but more research is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims at investigating students' awareness of green chemistry principles (GCPs) which are infused in two context-based projects that are related to socio-scientific issues, namely climate change and materials' recycling. At first, content analysis of the projects' activities showed the infusion of four GCPs. Subsequently, the students' written reports associated with these activities were evaluated in order to examine the incorporation of different GCPs in their argumentation. The four principles identified in the first part of the study, were also shown to be incorporated in students' argumentation, although with variable frequency. The specific themes which manifest students' awareness of the different GCPs were also identified. These themes may guide the effective design of educational material dedicated to the infusion of GCPs in chemistry education, thus contributing to the promotion of students' environmental awareness and the development of skills which characterise socially responsible citizenship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most prevalent cause of dementia linked to the accumulation of amyloid-beta (Aβ) plaques-fibrils that impair cognitive functions. Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) are emerging as promising tools for the crusade against AD owning to appropriate biocompatibility and facile functionalization that can lead to theranostic agents. Herein, the fabrication of a multimodal (magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), fluorescence imaging, and drug carrier) magnetic nanoemulsion (MNE) is reported as an AD theranostic candidate. Initially zinc ferrite MNPs of high saturation magnetization (129 emu g−1) were synthesized through a modified microwave-assisted polyol process. Memantine (a registered AD drug) was labeled with fluorescein (Mem-Flu) and encapsulated with the MNPs in sodium dodecyl sulfate micelles to form the MNE. Small hydrodynamic size (107), high encapsulation (77.5%) and loading efficiencies (86.1%) and sufficient transverse relaxivity (48.7 mM−1 s−1) were achieved through the design while sustained release of Mem-Flu was unveiled by in zero-order, first-order, Higuchi and Korsmeyer–Peppas pharmacokinetic models. Moreover, the MNE acquired fluorescence imaging ability of Aβ1–42 peptide monomers and/or plaques-fibrils via the fluorescein labeling of Memantine. A novel inorganic-organic hybrid multimodal AD theranostic candidate is presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Heterometal oxide nanoparticles of bioessential metals are shedding new light to nanoparticle-inspired bioapplications. Pairing bioreactive elements like copper and iron can affect the redox dynamic and biological profile of the nanomaterial. Given the complexity of physicochemical properties, biological activity and toxicity concerns, extensive exploration is demanded, especially when active and less active oxidation states participate as in case of cuprous-ferric delafossite CuFeO 2 (copper(I)-iron(III)), a less widespread nanomaterial. In that vein, CuFeO 2 nanoparticles were synthesized and biological profile was evaluated in comparison with cuprous oxide (Cu 2 O NPs) counterpart, an already established antimicrobial agent. Interactions with bacteria, proteins and DNA were examined. Cu 2 O NPs exhibited stronger antibacterial activity (IC 50 < 25 μg/ml) than CuFeO 2 NPs (IC 50 > 100 μg/ml). In vitro exposure of nanoparticles on plasmid DNA unveiled toxicity in the form of DNA damage for Cu 2 O and enhanced biocompatibility for CuFeO 2 NPs. Genotoxicity estimated by the frequency of sister chromatid exchanges, cytostaticity based on the proliferating rate indices and cytotoxicity based on the mitotic indices at human peripheral lymphocyte cultures were all significantly lower in the case of CuFeO 2 NPs. Furthermore, through in vitro albumin denaturation assay, CuFeO 2 NPs showed better performance in protein denaturation protection, correlating in superior anti-inflammatory activity than Cu 2 O and similar to acetylsalicylic acid. Synergy of copper(I)-iron(III) in nanoscale is apparent and gives rise to fruitful bioapplications and perspectives. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • Bioreactivity vs toxicity of active & less active redox states, copper(I)-iron(III) • A synthetic pathway that favors the isolation of CuFeO 2 in nanoscale is proposed. • A comparative bioevaluation study of Cu(I)Fe(III)O 2 vs Cu(I) 2 O • Copper(I)-iron(III) synergy in nanoscale lessens bio-hostility & toxicity • CuFeO 2 displays high biocompatibility, bio-repair & protection against inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a growing field of research on the physicochemical properties of bimetallic nanoparticles (BMNPs) and their potential use in different applications. Meanwhile, their antimicrobial activity is scarcely reported, although BMNPs can potentially achieve unique chemical transformations and synergetic effects can be presented. Towards this direction a reproducible simple hybrid polyol process under moderate temperature solvothermal conditions has been applied for the isolation of non-oxide contaminated bimetallic CuFe nanoparticles (NPs). 1,2-propylene glycol (PG), tetraethylene glycol (TEG) and polyethylene glycol (PEG 8000), that exhibit different physicochemical properties, have been utilized to regulate the size, structure, composition and the surface chemistry of NPs. The BMNPs were found to be of small crystalline size, 30–45 nm, and high hydrophilicity, different wt% percentage of organic coating and variable hydrodynamic size and surface charge. The antimicrobial activity of the BMNPs was evaluated against the bacterial strains B. subtilis , E. coli and fungus S. cerevisiae . The IC 50 values for CuFe NPs were found significantly lower compared with Cu NPs of the same size, revealing an enhancement in the antimicrobial activity when iron and copper coexist in the crystal structure. The reactive oxygen species (ROS) production was measured intracellularly and extracellularly by the nitroblue tetrazolium assay in the fungal cultures. No extracellular ROS were measured suggesting that both CuFe and Cu NPs enter the fungal cells during the incubation, also verified by optical imaging of the fungal cells in the presence of NPs. Higher ROS concentrations were generated intracellularly for CuFe NPs supporting different red/ox reaction mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A priori registration of randomized clinical trials is crucial to the transparency and credibility of their findings. Aim of this study was to assess the frequency with which registered and completed randomized trials in orthodontics are published. We searched ClinicalTrials.gov and ISRCTN for registered randomized clinical trials in orthodontics that had been completed up to January 2017 and judged the publication status and date of registered trials using a systematic protocol. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, chi-square or Fisher exact tests, and Kaplan-Meier survival estimates. From the 266 orthodontic trials registered up to January 2017, 80 trials had been completed and included in the present study. Among these 80 included trials, the majority (76%) were registered retrospectively, while only 33 (41%) were published at the time. The median time from completion to publication was 20.1 months (interquartile range: 9.1 to 31.6 months), while survival analysis indicated that less than 10% of the trials were published after 5 years from their completion. Finally, 22 (28%) of completed trials remain unpublished even after 5 years from their completion. Publication rates of registered randomized trials in orthodontics remained low, even 5 years after their completion date. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To identify (i) the prevalence of meeting the endpoints of 'stable periodontitis' (probing pocket depth [PPD] ≤ 4 mm, bleeding on probing [BoP] < 10%, no BoP at 4 mm sites), 'endpoints of therapy' (no PPD > 4 mm with BoP, no PPD ≥ 6 mm), 'controlled periodontitis' (≤4 sites with PPD ≥ 5 mm), 'PPD < 5 mm' and 'PPD < 6 mm' at the start of supportive periodontal care [SPC]) and (ii) the incidence of tooth loss in relation to not meeting these endpoints within a minimum of 5 years of SPC. Materials and Methods: Systematic electronic and manual searches were conducted to identify studies where subjects, upon completion of active periodontal therapy, entered into SPC. Duplicate screening was performed to find relevant articles. Corresponding authors were contacted to confirm inclusion and retrieve required clinical data for further analyses to assess the prevalence of reaching endpoints and incidence of subsequent tooth loss, if available, within at least 5 years of SPC. Meta‐analyses were carried out to evaluate risk ratios for tooth loss in relation to not reaching the various endpoints. Results: Fifteen studies including 12,884 patients and 323,111 teeth were retrieved. Achievement of endpoints at baseline SPC was rare (1.35%, 11.00% and 34.62%, respectively, for 'stable periodontitis', 'endpoints of therapy' and 'controlled periodontitis'). Less than a third of the 1190 subjects with 5 years of SPC data lost teeth—a total of 3.14% of all teeth were lost. Statistically significant associations with tooth loss, at the subject‐level, were found for not achieving 'controlled periodontitis' (relative risk [RR] = 2.57), PPD < 5 mm (RR = 1.59) and PPD < 6 mm (RR = 1.98). Conclusions: An overwhelming majority of subjects and teeth do not achieve the proposed endpoints for periodontal stability, yet most periodontal patients preserve most of their teeth during an average of 10–13 years in SPC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives To study the association between periodontitis and serum parathyroid hormone ( PTH) and the response of PTH to periodontal therapy in type 1 diabetic patients (T1 DM). We also investigated the PTH-1,25( OH)2D axis in the T1 DM group. Methods Periodontal health status was recorded in 54 periodontitis patients and 30 periodontally healthy controls (case-control data). Data were also collected from patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus at the baseline ( n = 76) and after periodontal therapy (intervention data) ( n = 53). Results Periodontitis was not associated with serum PTH in the case-control data or at the baseline of the intervention data. A post-therapy increase in serum PTH was found in 61% of the T1 DM patients; in patients with moderate or severe periodontitis ( n = 26) the average increase was 0.6 pmol/l ( p = 0.016) and in patients with no or mild periodontitis ( n = 27) 0.2 pmol/l ( p = 0.250). In 47% of the T1 DM patients, an increase in PTH was associated with an increase in serum 1,25( OH)2D. Conclusion An association between serum PTH and periodontal infection was found only after periodontal therapy in T1 DM patients. This post-treatment response in serum PTH may partly explain the previously reported increase in serum 1,25( OH)2D. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To examine the influence of the following study characteristics on their study effect estimates: (1) indexing in MEDLINE, (2) language, and (3) design. For randomized trials, (4) trial size and (5) unequal randomization were also assessed. Study Design and Setting: The CAtegorical Dental and Maxillofacial Outcome Syntheses meta-epidemiologic study was conducted. Eight databases/registers were searched up to September 2012 for meta-analyses of binary outcomes with at least five studies in the field of dental and maxillofacial medicine. The previously mentioned five study characteristics were investigated. The ratio of odds ratios (ROR) according to each characteristic was calculated with random-effects meta-regression and then pooled across meta-analyses. Results: A total of 281 meta-analyses were identified and used to assess the influence of the following factors: non-MEDLINE indexing vs. MEDLINE indexing (n = 78; ROR, 1.12; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.05, 1.19; P = 0.001), language (n = 61; P = 0.546), design (n = 24; P = 0.576), small trials (<200 patients) vs. large trials (≥200 patients) (n = 80; ROR, 0.92; 95% CI: 0.87, 0.98; P = 0.009) and unequal randomization (n = 36; P = 0.828). Conclusion: Studies indexed in MEDLINE might present greater effects than non-indexed ones. Small randomized trials might present greater effects than large ones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim Besides their role in bone metabolism, receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappaB ligand ( RANKL) and osteoprotegerin ( OPG) are also known to be associated with inflammation. We explored associations between the extent/severity of periodontitis and circulating levels of sRANKL and OPG and their ratio using a cross-sectional study design. Subjects & methods The extent of periodontal inflammation and tissue destruction and the serum levels of sRANKL (pg/ml) and OPG (pg/ml) were determined in 80 subjects with type 1 diabetes mellitus ( T1DM). Plaque-, age-, gender-, smoking-, HbA1c- and body mass index-adjusted associations between periodontal parameters and serum sRANKL, OPG and their ratio were studied using multiple linear regression analysis. Results Adjusted regression analyses of all the subjects indicated a significant positive association between AL ≥ 4 mm and severity of periodontitis and the level of serum OPG. A major drop in the strength and statistical significance of the above association was observed when the analyses included only non-smokers. Serum sRANKL level and sRANKL/ OPG ratio were not associated with periodontitis. Conclusion Our observations suggest that serum OPG may be an indicator of periodontal tissue destruction in T1DM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: The cytolethal distending toxin (Cdt) is a highly conserved exotoxin that are produced by a number of Gram negative bacteria, including Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, and affects mammalian cells by inhibiting cell division and causing apoptosis. A complete cdt-operon is present in the majority of A. actinomycetemcomitans, but the proportion of isolates that lack cdt-encoding genes (A, B and C) varies according to the population studied. The objectives of this study were to examine serotype, Cdt-genotype, and Cdt-activity in isolates of A. actinomycetemcomitans collected from an adolescent West African population and to examine the association between the carrier status of A. actinomycetemcomitans and the progression of attachment loss (AL). Materials and Methods: A total of 249 A. actinomycetemcomitans isolates from 200 Ghanaian adolescents were examined for serotype and cdt-genotype by PCR. The activity of the Cdt-toxin was examined by DNA-staining of exposed cultured cells and documented with flow cytometry. The periodontal status of the participants was examined at baseline and at a two-year follow-up. Results: Presence of all three cdt-encoding genes was detected in 79% of the examined A. actinomycetemcomitans isolates. All these isolates showed a substantial Cdt-activity. The two different cdt-genotypes (with and without presence of all three cdt-encoding genes) showed a serotype-dependent distribution pattern. Presence of A. actinomycetemcomitans was significantly associated with progression of AL (OR = 5.126; 95% CI = [2.994–8.779], p<0.001). Conclusion: A. actinomycetemcomitans isolated from the Ghanaian adolescents showed a distribution of serotype and cdt-genotype in line with results based on other previously studied populations. Presence of A. actinomycetemcomitans was significantly associated with disease progression, in particular the b serotype, whereas the association with disease progression was not particularly related to cdt-genotype, and Cdt-activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This study investigates the efficiency of zero valent iron (ZVI) to remove arsenite from water. Batch experiments were carried out to study the removal rates of arsenite under different pH values and in the presence of low and high concentrations of various ions (chloride, carbonate, nitrate, phosphate, sulfate and borate), manganese and dissolved organic matter. Most of these parameters affect negatively the removal of arsenite. Particularly, borate and organic matter at high concentrations significantly inhibited the efficiency of ZVI. Column tests were carried out to investigate the removal of arsenic under dynamic conditions and breakthrough curves were found for arsenate, arsenite and a mixture of both. ZVI treatment was also applied to natural groundwaters with elevated arsenic concentrations under the geochemical conditions usually found in Greece. The method was efficient for groundwater containing As(V). However, in anoxic-reducing groundwaters with prevalence of As(III), treated water did not fulfill the guideline of 10μgL−1 for drinking water. Chlorination enhanced the ZVI efficiency producing concentrations below the proposed limit. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objective: This systematic review evaluated the effectiveness of soft tissue augmentation procedures for complete coverage and mean coverage of buccal soft tissue dehiscence (BSTD) in patients with implant‐supported restorations. Methods: Three databases were surveyed for randomized (RCTs), non‐randomized controlled clinical trials (CCTs), cohort studies, case–control studies, and case series with a minimum of five patients per control or test group. Studies dealing with soft tissue augmentation procedures to cover BSTD—occurring during implant function and not due to the result of peri‐implantitis—were included. Risk of bias was evaluated with RoB 2 or the National Institutes of Health's Quality Assessment. Whenever possible, exploratory meta‐analyses were performed to evaluate weighted mean effects (WME) for the different outcomes. The primary outcomes were the percentage of complete coverage and mean coverage of BSTD. Results: Seven articles were included. Only one study was a RCT, with a high risk of bias. Meta‐analyses showed that after 1 year (2 studies, n = 36 patients; WME = 70; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 50; 90; p =.23) as well as after 5 years (3 studies, n = 54 patients; WME = 70; 95%; CI = 60; 80; p =.44), complete coverage of BSTD could be achieved in 70% of the cases. Conclusion: Based on limited evidence, it can be concluded that BSTD can be substantially reduced with the use of soft tissue augmentation procedures. Further research with comparative trials using larger samples and longer follow‐up periods is needed to study the stability of soft tissues in the long term. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This systematic review evaluated the effectiveness of soft tissue augmentation procedures for complete coverage and mean coverage of buccal soft tissue dehiscence (BSTD) in patients with implant‐supported restorations. Methods: Three databases were surveyed for randomized (RCTs), non‐randomized controlled clinical trials (CCTs), cohort studies, case–control studies, and case series with a minimum of five patients per control or test group. Studies dealing with soft tissue augmentation procedures to cover BSTD—occurring during implant function and not due to the result of peri‐implantitis—were included. Risk of bias was evaluated with RoB 2 or the National Institutes of Health's Quality Assessment. Whenever possible, exploratory meta‐analyses were performed to evaluate weighted mean effects (WME) for the different outcomes. The primary outcomes were the percentage of complete coverage and mean coverage of BSTD. Results: Seven articles were included. Only one study was a RCT, with a high risk of bias. Meta‐analyses showed that after 1 year (2 studies, n = 36 patients; WME = 70; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 50; 90; p =.23) as well as after 5 years (3 studies, n = 54 patients; WME = 70; 95%; CI = 60; 80; p =.44), complete coverage of BSTD could be achieved in 70% of the cases. Conclusion: Based on limited evidence, it can be concluded that BSTD can be substantially reduced with the use of soft tissue augmentation procedures. Further research with comparative trials using larger samples and longer follow‐up periods is needed to study the stability of soft tissues in the long term. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the impact of timing of implant placement and loading on implant survival and biological outcomes of multiple‐unit implant‐supported fixed dental prosthesis (FDPs). Material and Methods: A literature search was performed by three independent reviewers for studies reporting on ≥10 patients with FPDs supported by ≥two implants over ≥3 years of follow‐up. Data were analyzed on implant survival and biological complications as primary outcomes and biological events, including changes in peri‐implant marginal bone level (MBL), probing depth, soft‐tissue level, and health condition as secondary outcomes. Results: 7002 titles were identified, 360 full‐texts were screened, and 14 studies were included. These comprised 6 randomized controlled studies (RCTs), 5 cohort studies, and 3 case series with identifiable implant placement and loading protocols in five of 09 possible combinations. All groups but one (IPIL) showed implant survival rates >90%. A meta‐analysis based on 3 RCTs found no differences in survival rate between DPIL and DPDL (p =.227). Conclusions: High survival rates for all studied implant placement and loading combinations were shown for FPDs over ≥3 years of follow‐up. When a delayed implant placement protocol is applied, immediate or delayed loading demonstrated similar survival rates. The heterogeneity of the data did not allow to draw any further conclusions on the occurrence of biological complications related to timing of implant placement/loading. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the impact of timing of implant placement and loading on implant survival and biological outcomes of multiple‐unit implant‐supported fixed dental prosthesis (FDPs). Material and Methods: A literature search was performed by three independent reviewers for studies reporting on ≥10 patients with FPDs supported by ≥two implants over ≥3 years of follow‐up. Data were analyzed on implant survival and biological complications as primary outcomes and biological events, including changes in peri‐implant marginal bone level (MBL), probing depth, soft‐tissue level, and health condition as secondary outcomes. Results: 7002 titles were identified, 360 full‐texts were screened, and 14 studies were included. These comprised 6 randomized controlled studies (RCTs), 5 cohort studies, and 3 case series with identifiable implant placement and loading protocols in five of 09 possible combinations. All groups but one (IPIL) showed implant survival rates >90%. A meta‐analysis based on 3 RCTs found no differences in survival rate between DPIL and DPDL (p =.227). Conclusions: High survival rates for all studied implant placement and loading combinations were shown for FPDs over ≥3 years of follow‐up. When a delayed implant placement protocol is applied, immediate or delayed loading demonstrated similar survival rates. The heterogeneity of the data did not allow to draw any further conclusions on the occurrence of biological complications related to timing of implant placement/loading. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Patients who were infected with COVID-19 may experience Long COVID syndrome. We examined the effectiveness of physiotherapy on dyspnea, muscle strength, and functional status in Long COVID syndrome. Methods: The exercise group underwent an 8-week supervised physiotherapeutic program consisting of interval aerobic exercise and strengthening exercises, each lasting 30 min. The control group did not engage in any exercise. Dyspnea, muscle strength, and functional status were assessed at the beginning and end of the intervention in both groups. Results: No significant baseline differences were found between the two groups. The exercise group demonstrated improvements compared to baseline in dyspnea, quadriceps muscle strength, and functional status. Specifically, there was a significant increase of 3.7 lifts in the 60-s sit-to-stand test (p = 0.01), an increase of 5.86 kg in right quadriceps muscle strength (p = 0.03), an increase of 8.26 kg in left quadriceps muscle strength (p = 0.01), and a decrease in dyspnea score by 0.95 points (p = 0.02). Conclusions: Similar studies have reported improvements in dyspnea, muscle strength, and functional status in the exercise group. However, further research with larger sample sizes is needed to confirm these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To assess the efficacy and adverse effects of resective surgery compared to access flap in patients with periodontitis. Methods: Randomized controlled trials with a follow‐up ≥6 months were identified in ten databases. Screening, data extraction, and quality assessment were conducted by two reviewers. The primary outcome was probing pocket depth, and the main secondary outcome was clinical attachment level. Data on adverse events were collected. Meta‐analysis was used to synthesize the findings of trials. Results: A total of 880 publications were identified. Fourteen publications from nine clinical trials met the inclusion criteria and were included for analysis. Meta‐analysis was carried out using all available results. The results indicated superior pocket depth reduction following resective surgery compared to access flap after 6–12 months of follow‐up (weighted mean difference 0.47 mm; confidence interval 0.7–0.24; p =.010). After 36–60 months of follow‐up, no differences were found between the two treatments in pocket depth and attachment level. The prevalence of adverse effects was not different between the groups. Post‐operative recession tended to be more severe for the resective approaches. Conclusion: Resective surgical approach was superior to access flap in reducing pocket depth 6–12 months post‐surgery, while no differences between the two modalities were found at 36–60 months of follow‐up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemotherapeutic metal-based compounds are effective anticancer agents; however, their cytotoxic profile and significant side effects limit their wide application. Natural products, especially flavonoids, are a prominent alternative source of anticancer agents that can be used as ligands for the generation of new bioactive complexes with metal ions of known biochemical and pharmacological activities. Herein, we present the synthesis and detailed structural and physicochemical characterizations of three novel complex assemblies of Ga(III) with the flavonoid chrysin and the ancillary aromatic chelators 1,10-phenanthroline, 2,2′-bipyridine and imidazole. The complexes constitute the only crystallographically characterized structures having a metal core from the boron group elements and a flavonoid as the ligand. The in vitro biological evaluation of the three complexes in a series of cancer cell lines of different origin established their cytotoxicity and ROS generating potential. In particular, the Ga(III)–chrysin–imidazole complex displayed the highest anticancer efficacy against all cancer cell lines with IC50 values in the low micromolar range (<1.18 μM), a result worth further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: this prospective observational study aims to assess serum levels of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), s100b, and total Tau in long-COVID patients, exploring correlations with symptoms, cognitive decline, mental health, and quality of life. Methods: Long-COVID patients visiting our outpatient clinic (February 2021–December 2022) were screened alongside age- and sex-matched controls. GFAP, s100b, and total Tau in serum were measured with ELISA. Cognitive function, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and quality of life were evaluated using MoCA, HADS (depression and anxiety), IES-R, and SF-36, respectively. Results: Sixty-five long-COVID patients and 20 controls were included. GFAP levels were significantly higher in long-COVID patients (p = 0.031), though not correlating with the presence of long-COVID symptoms. S100b and total Tau showed no significant differences between patients and controls. Nervous system-related symptoms were reported in 47% of patients. High rates of cognitive decline (65.9%), depression (32.2%), anxiety (47.5%), and post-traumatic stress disorder (44.1%) were observed. Over 80% of the study population scored below normative cutoffs for SF-36, indicating a significant impact on quality of life. Conclusions: in this long-COVID cohort with substantial psychological and cognitive symptoms, GFAP levels were elevated compared to controls, though not correlating with the presence of long-COVID symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dysautonomia in the post-COVID-19 condition appears to affect a significant number of patients, with reports raising the incidence up to 61%, having an overlap with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome. Quality of life and daily function are significantly impacted and conservative management interventions, despite the lack of high-quality evidence to date, are needed to ameliorate disability. A total of 50 adults with a dysautonomia post-COVID-19 diagnosis based on the Ewing battery and a NASA lean test will be enrolled in a randomized single blinded controlled trial with a crossover design. Feasibility and lack of definite dysautonomia diagnosis will be the primary outcomes, while secondary outcomes will be health-related, clinical and cardiopulmonary exercise test indicators. Safety and acceptance will also be checked, primarily excluding participants with post-exertional malaise. The Long-COVID patients Causal Diagnosis and Rehabilitation study in patients with Dysautonomia (LoCoDiRE-Dys) intervention will consist of an educational module, breathing retraining and an individualized exercise intervention of biweekly sessions for two months with regular assessment of both groups. LoCoDiRe-Dys aims to be the first post-COVID-19 randomized study in people with dysautonomia offering a multimodal intervention both in diagnosis and management. The need for evidence in effectively supporting patients is eminent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the beginning of the pandemic, both COVID-19-associated coagulopathy biomarkers and a plethora of endothelial biomarkers have been proposed and tested as prognostic tools of severity and mortality prediction. As the pandemic is gradually being controlled, attention is now focusing on the long-term sequelae of COVID-19. In the present study, we investigated the role of endothelial activation/dysfunction in long COVID syndrome. This observational study included 68 consecutive long COVID patients and a healthy age and sex-matched control group. In both groups, we measured 13 endothelial biomarkers. Moreover, in the long COVID patients, we evaluated fatigue and dyspnea severity, lung diffusion capacity (DLCO), and the 6-min walk (6MWT) test as measures of functional capacity. Our results showed that markers of endothelial activation/dysfunction were higher in long COVID patients, and that soluble intracellular adhesion molecule 1 (sICAM-1) and soluble vascular adhesion molecule 1 (sVCAM-1) negatively correlated with lung diffusion and functional capacity (sICAM-1 vs. DLCO, r = −0.306, p = 0.018; vs. 6MWT, r = −0.263, p = 0.044; and sVCAM-1 vs. DLCO, r= −0.346, p = 0.008; vs. 6MWT, r = −0.504, p < 0.0001). In conclusion, evaluating endothelial biomarkers alongside clinical tests might yield more specific insights into the pathophysiological mechanisms of long COVID manifestations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cosmic-ray neutron sensing (CRNS) allows for the estimation of root-zone soil water content (SWC) at the scale of several hectares. In this paper, we present the data recorded by a dense CRNS network operated from 2019 to 2022 at an agricultural research site in Marquardt, Germany – the first multi-year CRNS cluster. Consisting, at its core, of eight permanently installed CRNS sensors, the cluster was supplemented by a wealth of complementary measurements: data from seven additional temporary CRNS sensors, partly co-located with the permanent ones; 27 SWC profiles (mostly permanent); two groundwater observation wells; meteorological records; and Global Navigation Satellite System reflectometry (GNSS-R). Complementary to these continuous measurements, numerous campaign-based activities provided data by mobile CRNS roving, hyperspectral imagery via UASs, intensive manual sampling of soil properties (SWC, bulk density, organic matter, texture, soil hydraulic properties), and observations of biomass and snow (cover, depth, and density). The unique temporal coverage of 3 years entails a broad spectrum of hydro-meteorological conditions, including exceptional drought periods and extreme rainfall but also episodes of snow coverage, as well as a dedicated irrigation experiment. Apart from serving to advance CRNS-related retrieval methods, this data set is expected to be useful for various disciplines, for example, soil and groundwater hydrology, agriculture, or remote sensing. Hence, we show exemplary features of the data set in order to highlight the potential for such subsequent studies. The data are available at doi.org/10.23728/b2share.551095325d74431881185fba1eb09c95. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cosmic-ray neutron sensing (CRNS) allows for the estimation of root-zone soil water content (SWC) at the scale of several hectares. In this paper, we present the data recorded by a dense CRNS network operated from 2019 to 2022 at an agricultural research site in Marquardt, Germany - the first multi-year CRNS cluster. Consisting, at its core, of eight permanently installed CRNS sensors, the cluster was supplemented by a wealth of complementary measurements: data from seven additional temporary CRNS sensors, partly collocated with the permanent ones, 27 SWC-profiles (mostly permanent), two groundwater observation wells, meteorological records, and global navigation satellite system reflectometry (GNSS-R). Complementary to these continuous measurements, numerous campaign-based activities provided data by mobile CRNS-roving, hyperspectral imagery via unmanned aerial systems (UAS), intensive manual sampling of soil properties (SWC, bulk density, organic matter, texture, soil hydraulic properties), and observations of biomass and snow (cover, depth, and density). The unique temporal coverage of three years entails a broad spectrum of hydro-meteorological conditions, including exceptional drought periods, extreme rainfall, but also episodes of snow coverage, as well as a dedicated irrigation experiment. Apart from serving to advance CRNS-related retrieval methods, this data set is expected to be useful for various disciplines, e.g. soil and groundwater hydrology, agriculture, or remote sensing. Hence, we show exemplary features of the data set in order to highlight the potential for such subsequent studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare the use of odds ratio (OR), risk ratio (RR), and risk difference (RD) in meta-analyses of dichotomous outcomes and assess their influence on their results. Study Design and Setting: Initially, we included meta-analyses from a meta-epidemiologic database and reanalyzed them with OR, RR, and RD as summary metric. The primary outcomes were the effects of metric choice on the (1) statistical significance, (2) heterogeneity, and (3) Egger's test for publication bias. Additionally, meta-analyses that originally used OR were reanalyzed using RR to assess the differences in their results. Results: In the 235 meta-analyses (147 reviews) that were included, the conclusions in terms of significance rarely changed. On the other hand, use of OR displayed the lowest I² values (median 42%), followed by RR (+5.1%) and RD (+15.0%). The Egger's test was most often significant with RR (32%), followed by RD (29%) and OR (24%). Substitution of RR for OR led to a change of the observed effects in 3%, change of between-study heterogeneity in 6% to 24%, and change in Egger's test results in 7% of the cases, respectively. Conclusion: The choice of metric for meta-analyses of dichotomous outcomes might influence the identified between-study heterogeneity and the results of Egger's test. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To answer these PICO questions: #1: In adult patients with malocclusion, what are the effects of orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) on clinical attachment level (CAL) changes in treated periodontitis patients with a healthy but reduced periodontium compared to non-periodontitis patients? #2: In adult patients with treated periodontitis and malocclusion, which is the efficacy of skeletal anchorage devices compared to conventional systems in terms of orthodontic treatment outcomes? Material and methods: Seven databases were searched until June 2020 looking for randomized, non-randomized trials and case series. Mean effects (ME) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Results: Twenty-six studies with high risk of bias were included. PICO#1: In 26 patients without periodontitis and in 69 treated periodontitis patients, minimal changes in periodontal outcomes were reported after orthodontic therapy (p > 0.05). A significant CAL gain (mm) (ME = 3.523; 95% CI [2.353; 4.693]; p < 0.001) was observed in 214 patients when periodontal outcomes were retrieved before a combined periodontal and orthodontic therapy. PICO#2: Orthodontic variables were scarcely reported, and objective assessment of the results on orthodontic therapy was missing. Conclusions: Based on a small number of low-quality studies, in non-periodontitis and in stable treated periodontitis patients, OTM had no significant impact on periodontal outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To answer these PICO questions: #1: In adult patients with malocclusion, what are the effects of orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) on clinical attachment level (CAL) changes in treated periodontitis patients with a healthy but reduced periodontium compared to non‐periodontitis patients? #2: In adult patients with treated periodontitis and malocclusion, which is the efficacy of skeletal anchorage devices compared to conventional systems in terms of orthodontic treatment outcomes? Material and methods: Seven databases were searched until June 2020 looking for randomized, non‐randomized trials and case series. Mean effects (ME) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Results: Twenty‐six studies with high risk of bias were included. PICO#1: In 26 patients without periodontitis and in 69 treated periodontitis patients, minimal changes in periodontal outcomes were reported after orthodontic therapy (p > 0.05). A significant CAL gain (mm) (ME = 3.523; 95% CI [2.353; 4.693]; p < 0.001) was observed in 214 patients when periodontal outcomes were retrieved before a combined periodontal and orthodontic therapy. PICO#2: Orthodontic variables were scarcely reported, and objective assessment of the results on orthodontic therapy was missing. Conclusions: Based on a small number of low‐quality studies, in non‐periodontitis and in stable treated periodontitis patients, OTM had no significant impact on periodontal outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Long COVID-19 syndrome refers to persisting symptoms (>12 weeks) after the initial coronavirus infection and is estimated to affect 3% to 12% of people diagnosed with the disease globally. Aim: We conducted a collaborative study with the Long COVID patient organization in Greece, in order to estimate the characteristics, symptoms, and challenges these patients confront. Methods: Data were collected from 208 patients using unstructured qualitative free-text entries in an anonymized online questionnaire. Results: The majority of respondents (68.8%) were not hospitalized and reported lingering symptoms (66.8%) for more than six months. Eighteen different symptoms (fatigue, palpitations, shortness of breath, parosmia, etc.) were mentioned in both hospitalized and community patients. Awareness of Long COVID sequelae seems to be low even among medical doctors. Treatment options incorporating targeted rehabilitation programs are either not available or still not included inthe management plan of Long COVID patients. Conclusions: Patients infected with coronavirus with initial mild symptoms suffer from the same persistent symptoms as those who were hospitalized. Long COVID syndrome appears to be a multi-systemic entity and a multidisciplinary medical approach should be adopted in order to correctly diagnose and successfully manage these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To answer these PICO questions: #1: In adult patients with malocclusion, what are the effects of orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) on clinical attachment level (CAL) changes in treated periodontitis patients with a healthy but reduced periodontium compared to non‐periodontitis patients? #2: In adult patients with treated periodontitis and malocclusion, which is the efficacy of skeletal anchorage devices compared to conventional systems in terms of orthodontic treatment outcomes? Material and methods: Seven databases were searched until June 2020 looking for randomized, non‐randomized trials and case series. Mean effects (ME) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Results: Twenty‐six studies with high risk of bias were included. PICO#1: In 26 patients without periodontitis and in 69 treated periodontitis patients, minimal changes in periodontal outcomes were reported after orthodontic therapy (p > 0.05). A significant CAL gain (mm) (ME = 3.523; 95% CI [2.353; 4.693]; p < 0.001) was observed in 214 patients when periodontal outcomes were retrieved before a combined periodontal and orthodontic therapy. PICO#2: Orthodontic variables were scarcely reported, and objective assessment of the results on orthodontic therapy was missing. Conclusions: Based on a small number of low‐quality studies, in non‐periodontitis and in stable treated periodontitis patients, OTM had no significant impact on periodontal outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study was designed to assess the relation between apolipoprotein E (apoE) genotype and serum interleukin (IL)-10 levels in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and chronic stable angina (CSA). Background: Genetic variations in the apoE gene affect the risk for coronary artery disease (i.e., carriers of the e4 allele have an increased risk). Increased levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), an inflammatory marker, correlate with an increased risk of acute coronary events, whereas increased IL-10 concentrations have an atheroprotective role. Studies have reported a negative association between the apoE e4 allele and CRP levels. Methods: Apolipoprotein E genotypes were assessed in 166 consecutive ACS patients (119 men, mean age 68 years, interquartile range [IQR] 60 to 74 years) and 70 CSA patients (54 men, mean age 65 years, IQR 62 to 68 years). Serum IL-10 and CRP were assessed at study entry. Results: Analysis of covariance showed that genetic variation in the apoE gene locus significantly influences serum IL-10 levels in both ACS (p = 0.009) and CSA patients (p = 0.013). Among ACS patients, IL-10 levels were lower in E3/E4 carriers compared with E3/E3 carriers (p = 0.01) and marginally lower compared with E2/E3 carriers (p = 0.065). Among CSA patients, IL-10 levels were lower in E3/E4 carriers compared with E2/E3 carriers (p = 0.004) and marginally lower compared with E3/E3 carriers (p = 0.086). Conclusions: The IL-10 concentrations differ in ACS and in CSA patients with different apoE genotypes. The e4 allele was associated with a trend toward lower IL-10 serum levels. Our results may provide an explanation of findings in previous studies that cardiovascular risk is higher in e4 carriers despite the presence of low CRP levels. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

EDM is used to machine every electrically conductive material by removing material through electrical discharges in a dielectric fluid. During machining the heat intensity from the spark melts a part of the workpiece. This liquid phase of the material resolidifies rapidly and builds the recast layer. A lot of work has been done before to explain the physical principles governing the process and the thermal influenced zone. Effects on the recast layer by using microJoule-range discharge energies in combination with powder suspended working fluids are examined in this paper. The effects of a capacitor connected parallel to the gap were investigated in relation to the recast layer formation. In addition, transverse section pictures show the morphology and the depth of the thermal influenced zone. The aim was to investigate the influence of the powder particles in micro-sinking-EDM and especially in the gap, on the thermal spread in the dielectric and on the influenced zone. Pictures were taken during the spark generation in different suspended dielectrics with a high speed framing camera. Furthermore, a complete qualitative and quantitative analysis of an EDX spectrum has been performed in order to examine the changes of the recast layer composition by using powder suspended dielectrics at the workpiece surface. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The article discusses the use of robotic pyeloplasty as a treatment for pelvi-ureteric junction obstruction (PUJO). Historically, open pyeloplasty has been the gold standard for this condition, but minimally invasive techniques, such as robotic surgery, have become more popular in recent years. However, the increased cost of robotic surgery raises questions about its accessibility in less economically affluent countries. Studies have shown that robotic pyeloplasty has similar success rates to open pyeloplasty, but the cost difference remains a challenge. The article suggests that increasing market competition and centralizing robotic centers could help make the procedure more cost-effective and accessible. [Extracted from the article]

Bone preservation and primary regeneration is a daily challenge in the field of dental medicine. In recent years, bioresorbable metals based on magnesium (Mg) have been widely investigated due to their bone-like modulus of elasticity, their high biocompatibility, antimicrobial, and osteoconductive properties. Synthetic Mg-based biomaterials are promising candidates for bone regeneration in comparison with other currently available pure synthetic materials. Different alloys based on Mg were developed to fit clinical requirements. In parallel, advances in additive manufacturing offer the possibility to fabricate experimentally bioresorbable metallic porous scaffolds. This review describes the promising clinical results of resorbable Mg-based biomaterials for bone repair in osteosynthetic application and discusses the perspectives of use in oral bone regeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Staphylococcal enterotoxins are one of the most important causative agents of food poisoning. These molecules function as both gastrointestinal toxins and superantigens (SAgs) which can simultaneously bind MHC-II and T cell receptor leading to a non-specific polyclonal T cell activation and massive proinflammatory cytokine release. Common symptoms include vomiting and diarrhea; however, in more severe cases, systemic dissemination may result in toxic shock syndrome and can be lethal in a few hours. Only small amounts of these heat-stable toxins are needed to cause the disease. Therefore, it is highly important to detect quickly low concentrations of SAgs in biological samples. In this work, we report a surface plasmon resonance (SPR)-based capture immunoassay for the detection of the SAg SEG. We analyzed the use of different amplification strategies. The SPR-based double-antibody sandwich approach could detect picomolar levels of SEG. The use of antibody-coated silica nanoparticles (AbSiNPs) as an alternative enhancing reagent also detected SEG in the picomolar range. Although AbSiNPs did not improve the limit of detection, for the same amount of SAg tested, AbSiNPs gave a higher response level than free antibodies. This work highlights the suitability of silica nanoparticles for signal amplification in SPR-based biosensors. Overall, SPR biosensors offer the capability for continuous real-time monitoring and high sensitivity that can be befitting for the detection of enterotoxins in food industries, laboratories and regulatory agencies. [Display omitted] • SPR biosensors are useful tools for Staphylococcal enterotoxins detection. • SPR-based double-antibody sandwich assay could detect picomolar levels of SEG. • Antibody-coated silica nanoparticles can amplify the signal in SPR-based methods. • SEG detection in the picomolar range was achieved with AbSiNPs. • AbSiNPs gave higher binding responses than free antibodies for SEG detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The purpose of this experimental in vivo investigation was to evaluate the influence of modifying the implant surface by adding a monolayer of multi-phosphonate molecules on the development of experimental peri-implantitis. Material and methods: Eight beagle dogs received 5 tests and 5 control implants each following a split-mouth design 3 months after premolar and molar extraction. On the most mesial implant of each side, a 3-mm buccal dehiscence was artificially created. Experimental peri-implantitis was induced by silk ligatures over a 4-month period; after ligature removal, peri-implantitis was left to progress for another 4 months without plaque control. Clinical, histological, and radiographic outcomes were evaluated. Results: Radiographically, both implant groups showed a similar bone loss (BL) at the end of the induction and progression phases. BL measured on the histological sections of the test and control groups was 3.14 ± 0.42 mm and 3.26 ± 0.28 mm, respectively; the difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). The remaining buccal bone to implant contact (bBIC) percentage of the test and control groups was 59.38 ± 18.62 and 47.44 ± 20.46%, respectively; the difference, however, was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Bone loss observed at dehiscent sites compared to non-dehiscent ones showed no statistically significant difference (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Addition of a monophosphonate layer to a moderately rough implant surface did not affect development of experimental peri-implantitis. Clinical relevance: Influence of implant surface on peri-implantitis may condition implant selection by the clinician, especially on patients with disease risk factors. In that sense, monophosphate layer implants do not show higher peri-implantitis risk than control implants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Young and mature leaves of Arabidopsis thaliana were exposed by foliar spray to 30 mg L−1 of CuZn nanoparticles (NPs). The NPs were synthesized by a microwave-assisted polyol process and characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). CuZn NPs effects in Arabidopsis leaves were evaluated by chlorophyll fluorescence imaging analysis that revealed spatiotemporal heterogeneity of the quantum efficiency of PSII photochemistry (ΦPSΙΙ) and the redox state of the plastoquinone (PQ) pool (qp), measured 30 min, 90 min, 180 min, and 240 min after spraying. Photosystem II (PSII) function in young leaves was observed to be negatively influenced, especially 30 min after spraying, at which point increased H2O2 generation was correlated to the lower oxidized state of the PQ pool. Recovery of young leaves photosynthetic efficiency appeared only after 240 min of NPs spray when also the level of ROS accumulation was similar to control leaves. On the contrary, a beneficial effect on PSII function in mature leaves after 30 min of the CuZn NPs spray was observed, with increased ΦPSΙΙ, an increased electron transport rate (ETR), decreased singlet oxygen (1O2) formation, and H2O2 production at the same level of control leaves.An explanation for this differential response is suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The game of chess is the longest-studied domain in the history of artificial intelligence. The strongest programs are based on a combination of sophisticated search techniques, domain-specific adaptations, and handcrafted evaluation functions that have been refined by human experts over several decades. By contrast, the AlphaGo Zero program recently achieved superhuman performance in the game of Go by reinforcement learning from self-play. In this paper, we generalize this approach into a single AlphaZero algorithm that can achieve superhuman performance in many challenging games. Starting from random play and given no domain knowledge except the game rules, AlphaZero convincingly defeated a world champion program in the games of chess and shogi (Japanese chess), as well as Go.

Ghrelin is associated with glucose homeostasis but its' possible relevance with glucose levels in physiological and pathological conditions has so far been poorly investigated. The aim of the present study was to evaluate circulating ghrelin levels in prediabetic and diabetic patients in basal conditions and in response to oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). A total of 90 male adults aged 40 - 73 years old were enrolled in our study. Fasting and postprandial plasma ghrelin, insulin and glucose levels were measured at 0, 60, 120 and 180 min following an OGTT in 40 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), 20 with impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) and 30 controls. Incremental and total area under response curve were determined and calculated for glucose, insulin and ghrelin. Fasting plasma ghrelin concentrations were significantly lower in the T2DM group than IGT and control group patients (p<0.01) but not between healthy subjects and IGT group (p=0.746). In the diabetics' group ghrelin levels showed a statistically significant negative correlation with insulin and a positive correlation with HbA1c and glucose. At all time points after the OGTT ghrelin concentrations were significantly lower in the T2DM group compared to IGT group and controls. Plasma ghrelin concentrations are lower in male diabetic patients at the fasting state and remain lower at all time points after an OGTT while minor differences were found between normal and IGT subjects. Ghrelin might play a role in insulin and glucose metabolism in diabetic patients but not in patients with IGT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural killer (NK) cells are lymphocytes of the innate immune system that eliminate virally infected or malignantly transformed cells. NK cell function is regulated by diverse surface receptors that are both activating and inhibitory. Among them, the homodimeric Ly49 receptors control NK cell cytotoxicity by sensing major histocompatibility complex class I molecules (MHC-I) on target cells. Although crystal structures have been reported for Ly49/MHC-I complexes, the underlying binding mechanism has not been elucidated. Accordingly, we carried out thermodynamic and kinetic experiments on the interaction of four NK Ly49 receptors (Ly49G, Ly49H, Ly49I and Ly49P) with two MHC-I ligands (H-2Dd and H-2Dk). These Ly49s embrace the structural and functional diversity of the highly polymorphic Ly49 family. Combining surface plasmon resonance, fluorescence anisotropy and far-UV circular dichroism (CD), we determined that the best model to describe both inhibitory and activating Ly49/MHC-I interactions is one in which the two MHC-I binding sites of the Ly49 homodimer present similar binding constants for the two sites (~106 M-1) with a slightly positive co-operativity in some cases, and without far-UV CD observable conformational changes. Furthermore, Ly49/MHC-I interactions are diffusioncontrolled and enthalpy-driven. These features stand in marked contrast with the activation- controlled and entropy-driven interaction of Ly49s with the viral immunoevasin m157, which is characterized by strong positive co-operativity and conformational selection. These differences are explained by the distinct structures of Ly49/MHC-I and Ly49/m157 complexes. Moreover, they reflect the opposing roles of NK cells to rapidly scan for virally infected cells and of viruses to escape detection using immunoevasins such as m157. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thyroid dysfunction is accompanied by numerous changes in intermediary metabolism. Retinol binding protein-4 (RBP-4) and adiponectin are 2 adipocytokines that have multiple metabolic functions. The aim of our study was to examine serum RBP4 and adiponectin levels in clinical (before and after therapy) and subclinical hyperthyroid and hypothyroid subjects as compared to controls. 150 patients with thyroid dysfunction were recruited (65 hyperthyroid and 85 hypothyroid) while 28 euthyroid subjects served as a control group. We measured anthropometric, biochemical and hormonal (free T4, free T3, TSH, insulin) parameters in all participants. RBP-4 and adiponectin were measured using commercial ELISA kits. Mean baseline levels of RBP-4 were higher in patients with clinical hypothyroidism (29.0 ± 10.2 ng/ml, 25.1 ± 12.6 ng/ml, 38.8 ± 16.5 ng/ml, 31.9 ± 13.2 ng/ml, 20.4 ± 8.2 ng/ml in patients with hyperthyroidism, subclinical hyperthryrodism, hypothyroidism, subclinical hypothyroidism and controls respectively, F = 4.86, P < 0.001) and decreased significantly in patients with clinical hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism after normalization of thyroid hormones' levels (from 29.0 ± 10.2 to 24.9 ± 8.4 ng/ml, p = 0.003 and from 38.8 ± 16.5 to 29.0 ± 10.8 ng/ml, p = 0.001 respectively). We did not observe analogous changes in adiponectin levels in any of the studied groups. RBP-4 levels are higher in patients with clinical hypothyroidism and exhibit a marked decrease after normalization of thyroid function in both hyper and hypothyroid patients. We suggest that RBP-4 may play a role in the metabolic disturbances which accompany thyroid dysfunction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The theory of reinforcement learning provides a normative account, deeply rooted in psychological and neuroscientific perspectives on animal behaviour, of how agents may optimize their control of an environment. To use reinforcement learning successfully in situations approaching real-world complexity, however, agents are confronted with a difficult task: they must derive efficient representations of the environment from high-dimensional sensory inputs, and use these to generalize past experience to new situations. Remarkably, humans and other animals seem to solve this problem through a harmonious combination of reinforcement learning and hierarchical sensory processing systems, the former evidenced by a wealth of neural data revealing notable parallels between the phasic signals emitted by dopaminergic neurons and temporal difference reinforcement learning algorithms. While reinforcement learning agents have achieved some successes in a variety of domains, their applicability has previously been limited to domains in which useful features can be handcrafted, or to domains with fully observed, low-dimensional state spaces. Here we use recent advances in training deep neural networks to develop a novel artificial agent, termed a deep Q-network, that can learn successful policies directly from high-dimensional sensory inputs using end-to-end reinforcement learning. We tested this agent on the challenging domain of classic Atari 2600 games. We demonstrate that the deep Q-network agent, receiving only the pixels and the game score as inputs, was able to surpass the performance of all previous algorithms and achieve a level comparable to that of a professional human games tester across a set of 49 games, using the same algorithm, network architecture and hyperparameters. This work bridges the divide between high-dimensional sensory inputs and actions, resulting in the first artificial agent that is capable of learning to excel at a diverse array of challenging tasks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We evaluated the serum levels of monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1) and their association with peripheral arterial disease (PAD) in 199 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and metabolic syndrome ([MetS], group A) in comparison with 109 healthy controls (group B). In group A, MCP-1 levels were significantly (P < .001) higher than group B and exhibited a positive correlation with HbA1c (P < .001) and a negative correlation with ankle–brachial index (P < .001). In the same group, patients with PAD had significantly higher MCP-1 levels compared with those without PAD (P < .001). In conclusion, T2DM patients with MetS exhibit higher serum MCP-1 levels. The latter is associated with worse glycemic control and PAD. These results suggest a potential contributory role for MCP-1 in the pathogenesis of PAD in the presence of hyperglycemia and MetS in T2DM. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]