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The alveolar bone is an essential consideration when planning treatment for patients with tooth agenesis. This study evaluated the changes in the alveolar bone and adjacent teeth in patients with a congenitally missing mandibular lateral incisor using cone-beam computed tomography.Twenty-three nonorthodontically treated adults with a unilateral congenitally missing mandibular lateral incisor were the missing group (M group). The control group (C group) consisted of 23 nonorthodontically treated adults with normal occlusion and no missing teeth. First, the difference in the arch perimeter between the groups was compared at the cementoenamel junction (CEJ) level and the root apex (RA) level. Next, the root divergence of the anterior teeth in the M group was observed. Finally, the alveolar bone thickness ratio was compared between the M and C groups at different vertical levels.The arch perimeter was significantly decreased in the M group at the CEJ and RA levels (P 0.05). Root divergence was observed adjacent to the missing site (P 0.0001). There were a reduction in total and cancellous cortical alveolar bone thickness (ABT) ratios at the 3-, 6-, and 9-mm positions (P 0.05). The buccal cortical ABT ratios decreased at the 3-and 6-mm positions. The lingual ABT ratio increased at the 9-mm position (P 0.05).The congenitally missing mandibular lateral incisor caused a reduction in the arch perimeter in the CEJ area and the RA area. The root divergences were observed in the teeth adjacent to the missing areas. A significant decrease in the buccal cortical bone and cancellous bone was observed in the missing area.

We assessed the safety and immunogenicity of two recombinant DNA vaccines for COVID-19: GX-19 containing plasmid DNA encoding the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, and GX-19N containing plasmid DNA encoding the SARS-CoV-2 receptor-binding domain (RBD) foldon, nucleocapsid protein, and plasmid DNA encoding the spike protein.Two open-label non-randomised phase 1 trials, one of GX-19 and the other of GX-19N were done at two hospitals in South Korea. We enrolled healthy adults aged 19-49 years for the GX-19 trial and healthy adults aged 19-54 years for the GX-19N trial. Participants who tested positive by serological testing for SARS-CoV-2 were excluded. At 4-week intervals, the GX-19 trial participants received two vaccine doses (either 1·5 mg or 3·0 mg), and the GX-19N trial participants received two 3·0 mg doses. The vaccines were delivered intramuscularly using an electroporator. The participants were followed up for 52 weeks after first vaccination. Data collected up to day 57 after first vaccination were analysed in this interim analysis. The primary outcome was safety within 28 days after each vaccination measured in the intention-to-treat population. The secondary outcome was vaccine immunogenicity using blood samples collected on day 43 or 57 after first vaccination measured in the intention-to-treat population. The GX-19 (NCT044445389) and GX-19N (NCT04715997) trials are registered with ClinicalTrials.gov.Between June 17 and July 30, 2020, we screened 97 individuals, of whom 40 (41%) participants were enrolled in the GX-19 trial (20 [50%] in the 1·5 mg group and 20 [50%] in the 3·0 mg group). Between Dec 28 and 31, 2020, we screened 23 participants, of whom 21 (91%) participants were enrolled on the GX-19N trial. 32 (52%) of 61 participants reported 80 treatment-emergent adverse events after vaccination. All solicited adverse events were mild except one (2%) case of moderate fatigue in the 1·5 mg GX-19 group; no serious vaccine-related adverse events were detected. Binding antibody responses increased after second dose of vaccination in all groups (p=0·0002 in the 1·5 mg GX-19 group; p0·0001 in the 3·0 mg GX-19; and p=0·0004 for the spike protein and p=0·0001 for the RBD in the 3·0 mg GX-19N group).GX-19 and GX-19N are safe and well tolerated. GX-19N induces humoral and broad SARS-CoV-2-specific T-cell responses. GX-19N shows lower neutralising antibody responses and needs improvement to enhance immunogenicity.The Korea Drug Development Fund, funded by the Ministry of Science and ICT, Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy, and Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Many studies have investigated the transcriptome profiles of dental stem cells for regenerative medicine. However, such studies use bulk RNA and do not consider cell-level heterogeneity. Here, we investigated the characteristics and heterogeneity of human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs) and human periodontal ligament stem cells (hPDLSCs) at the single-cell level and examined the differences between them.hDPSCs and hPDLSCs were obtained from caries-free premolars (n = 2). Single-cell RNA sequencing of hDPSCs and hPDLSCs was performed using a Single Emulsion Systems (Dolomite Microfluidics, Royston, UK) droplet microfluidic device and the Illumina NextSeq550 system (Illumina, San Diego, CA). Data alignment was performed using STAR v2.4.0, and further analysis was performed using the Seurat, singleR, and clusterProfiler packages in R (R Foundation for Statistical Computing, Vienna, Austria).hDPSCs and hPDLSCs were separated into 3 clusters. hDPSCs mainly exhibited osteogenic and neurogenic cell populations. The main populations of hPDLSCs comprised osteogenic and myofibroblastic populations. hPDLSCs showed high "scores" for osteogenic gene expression, whereas hDPSCs had high neurogenic and endogenic scores.Single-cell RNA sequencing of hDPSCs and hPDLSCs revealed that the genes were expressed in specific clusters. The results of these analyses can be used as reference databases and valuable resources for further research in dental therapeutics.

Orthodontic diagnosis is a comprehensive procedure that integrates various information obtained from the facial and occlusal structure as well as patient's individual needs. Hence it is not easy to imagine if the artificial intelligence(AI) would eventually replace the conventional diagnostic process. Nonetheless, recent advances in the machine learning and artificial intelligence have been applied to the cephalometric tracing and model analysis via automated image recognition, exhibiting relatively high reliability. Based on the cumulated experiences and research outcomes, orthodontic diagnostics have taken a small step towards an automated process. Considering that the orthodontic diagnosis starts from the recognition of the space discrepancy between the initial status and idealized occlusion, semi-automated three-dimensional visualized treatment objectives (VTO) may be established. This article covers the brief overview of the current status in machine learning especially focusing on the image recognition. Recent advances in the fabrication of three-dimensional VTO using surface landmarks and automated setup process is demonstrated. In the near future, a more clinically relevant VTO can be utilized using the imaginary center of resistance, to provide useful clues to the orthodontists in many of the borderline cases between extraction and non-extraction, and between surgery and non-surgery.

Background and Overview Orthodontic miniscrews have become popular tools for providing temporary anchorage during orthodontic treatment. Although they are easy to insert, damage to the periodontal ligament or dental root during insertion is an unfavorable iatrogenic complication. Root perforation during miniscrew insertion in human teeth has been reported in a few articles. In this article, the authors describe the spontaneous repair of an iatrogenic root perforation in a mandibular first molar that occurred during insertion of an orthodontic miniscrew in a young girl undergoing orthodontic treatment. Case Description A 15-year-old girl with malocclusion was undergoing orthodontic treatment when the mesial root of her mandibular right first molar was damaged by an orthodontic miniscrew. The miniscrew and corresponding bracket were immediately removed to avoid any unnecessary forces on the tooth. Because the pulp remained vital without any additional damage and infection for 6 months, orthodontic treatment was resumed and completed in 9 months without any pulp damage or unfavorable symptoms. Serial periapical radiographs and cone-beam computed tomographic images showed that the injured area was surrounded by reparative tissue without any apical lesion. Conclusions and Practical Implications The findings of this case suggest that immediate removal of unnecessary forces provides an environment for spontaneous repair in cases of iatrogenic root perforation by orthodontic miniscrews, even when the damage involves the pulp. If force stimulation is avoided for a certain period, which was 6 months in this case, it may be possible to complete the orthodontic treatment without unfavorable symptoms.

The miniscrew-assisted rapid palatal expander (MARPE) has extended not only skeletal effects with fewer dental changes and but also the age limit of nonsurgical maxillary expansion treatment. Amid its gaining popularity in clinical orthodontics, our current understanding of treatment effectiveness, efficiency, and stability needs to be reassessed. In this review article, the authors have attempted to evaluate MARPE from various aspects with a focus on recent studies.

Introduction The registration of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images and digital dental models is required for the design and manufacturing of dental devices such as implant guides and surgical wafers. This study aims to register intraoral scan (IS) models and cast scan (CS) models onto CBCT images using 3-dimensional (3D) planning software and evaluate the registration accuracy according to scanning methods and 3D planning software. Methods The CBCT image of an artificial skull model with reference markers was taken. The CS model and the IS model were obtained from the same skull model, registered onto the CBCT image using 3D planning software packages providing manual registration (MR) function and point-based registration (PR) functions, and set as the experimental groups. After registration, shell to shell deviations and positional differences between the reference model and the experimental models were evaluated. Results The shell to shell deviations ranged from 0.03 to 0.18 mm. Deviations in both the maxilla and mandible were significantly different according to scanning methods and software packages. In the anteroposterior direction, the IS-MR and CS-MR groups showed significantly different positions. In the superoinferior direction, the MR and PR groups showed significantly different positions. Conclusions The registration using the PR function of the 3D planning software packages was significantly more accurate than the registration using the MR function. There was no significant difference between the registrations using the IS model and the CS model when using the PR functions.

Introduction The aim of this study was to evaluate the height growth of Class I and III orthodontic patients according to the Fishman skeletal maturation index (SMI) and to compare it with that of a general population. Methods The study sample included 81 Class I and 71 Class III adolescents who had height measurements and hand-wrist radiographs taken annually and categorized according to SMI. Height completion rate, residual height, height increase per sequential SMI stage, and height velocity were analyzed. Sex differences were evaluated and comparisons between Class I and Class III groups were made. In addition, the height of orthodontic patients was indirectly compared with that of the general population. Results In boys and girls, height completion rate was >90% at SMI 6, residual height was fewer than 10 cm at SMI 7, and height increase per sequential SMI stage was greatest from SMI 6 to SMI 7. Height velocity was greatest from SMI 5 to SMI 6 in boys and from SMI 4 to SMI 5 in girls. Conclusions There was no significant difference in body height parameters for all SMI stages between Class I and Class III adolescents. Adolescents who had orthodontic treatment were not shorter in stature at growth completion compared with the general population.

Background and aims A few studies examined association between familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) in Asians with low levels of serum cholesterol. The objectives of this study were to estimate the prevalence of familial hypercholesterolemia phenotype (FH-P) and examined their associations with cardiovascular mortality among Korean population. Methods The Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) data and data from a cohort study were used to obtain the prevalence estimate of FH-P and the association of FH-P with mortality, respectively. A cohort study included 502,966 individuals who visited health promotion centers and were given a medical examination from 1994 to 2004. FH-P was defined using the Make Early Diagnosis to Prevent Early Death (MEDPED) criteria and the modified MEDPED which substracted 20 mg/dL from original MEDPED. Results FH-P prevalences defined by MEDPED and modified MEDPED among KNHANES were 0.11% and 0.25%. After 14.6-year follow-up, 23,413 deaths (3888 ASCVD) were observed. Overall, FH-P defined by MEDPED showed weaker associations with mortality compared with modified MEDPED. The hazard ratios (95% confidence intervals) of FH-P defined by modified MEDPED were 1.74 (1.46–2.07) for all-cause death, 2.18 (1.51–3.14) for ASCVD, and 2.06 (1.66–2.56) for non-cancer. Of note, the hazard ratios for all-cause death was 5.27 (2.62–10.57) among women aged less than 50 years. Conclusions FH-P increased all-cause and ASCVD mortality. Long-term follow-up studies with detailed information on cause of mortality are necessary to confirm these findings. Subjects with FH are at high risk for death and need appropriate treatment and management.

Introduction The aim of this study was to evaluate the dentofacial transverse dimensions of subjects with different sagittal facial patterns using 3-dimensional cone-beam computed tomography images. Methods Cone-beam computed tomography images of 63 men and 80 women were divided into skeletal Class I, Class II, and Class III groups. Skeletal and dental evaluations were made on frontal views and coronal cross-sections of the images. Independent 2-sample t tests and 1-way analysis of variance followed by post hoc Tukey tests were used for sex and group differences. Pearson correlation analysis was used to identify factors related to changes in ANB angle. Results The Class II subjects did not show differences in maxillomandibular width and maxillary width compared with Class I subjects; however, their maxillary molars were more lingually tipped. The Class III subjects showed greater maxillomandibular width differences and smaller maxillary widths and maxillary buccolingual alveolar widths at midroot level compared with Class I subjects. The maxillary molars were buccally inclined, and the mandibular molars were lingually compensated in Class III subjects. The ANB angle showed positive correlations with jugal process width, maxillary width, and maxillary buccolingual alveolar width at midroot level as well as mandibular molar buccal inclination; negative correlations were found in maxillomandibular width difference, mandibular width at midroot level, and maxillary molar buccal inclination. Conclusions A relative comparison of Class I, Class II, and Class III subjects showed that dental compensation had occurred to overcome the transverse skeletal discrepancies in the maxillary posterior segments of Class II and Class III subjects. This could escalate unidentified periodontal and functional problems in the long term. Future studies of transverse dentofacial dimensions, including periodontal evaluations and occlusal forces, would be useful for delivering proper orthodontic treatment for skeletal Class II and Class III subjects.

The performance of blue quantum dot light-emitting diode (QD-LED) device as one of the three primary color sources still lag behind that of red and green QD-LEDs. In this study, to obtain highly brightness, excellent color purity, and environmentally friendly blue-light-emitting materials for next generation display applications, we designed and synthesized ZnSeS quantum dots (GCS-QDs) from core Se–S composition-gradient to shell, in which the majority of Se resides close to the core domain and S dominantly locates outmost of the shells. The final GCS-QDs had a high quantum yield value of 78%, significantly narrow spectrum width of 12 nm, and reached an emission peak at 445 nm. Moreover, the blue-emitting QD-LED were fabricated by employing the GCS-QDs as light emitter, and the resulting device exhibited maximum brightness of 3,359 cd/m2, maximum current efficiency of 1.2 cd/A, maximum external efficiency of 3.5%, and full width at half maximum of only 16 nm at 448 nm).

Nickel (Ni) materials with a thickness of a few hundred nm were homogeneously coated on the surfaces of aluminum (Al) powders by an electroless plating process. The Ni-coated Al powders show characteristic interfacial structures mixed of Ni, Al and O instead of densely packed Al oxide at the surface. The explosion test of the Ni-coated Al powders utilizing flame ignition showed that the powders had a 3.6 times enhanced pressurization rate of 405 kPa/ms compared to 111 kPa/ms of uncoated Al powders. It was found that this is due to a feasible diffusion of oxygen atoms into the Al powders through the thin and rough interfacial layers present at the Ni/Al interface. These results clearly indicate that nano-sized Ni film introduced instead of surface oxide acts as a very profitable layer to achieve efficient combustion behaviors by a rapid oxidation of Al powders.

This study was performed to evaluate the long-term changes in mandibular width, lower facial width, and ramus angulation after intraoral vertical ramus osteotomy (IVRO) and to identify the factors influencing these changes. This retrospective study included 53 consecutive patients with mandibular prognathism who underwent IVRO with (n=33) or without (n=20) Le Fort I osteotomy. Postero-anterior cephalograms and frontal facial photographs obtained before, 1 month after, and at least 24 months after IVRO were used for measurements. A linear mixed model and paired t-tests were used to analyze temporal changes and the associated influencing factors. The mandibular width increased immediately after surgery (P0.05), but decreased continuously thereafter. The ramus angulation showed negligible change within the first month (P0.05) and decreased thereafter up to approximately 36 months. The amounts of mandibular setback and posterior impaction and the length of time postoperative influenced these changes. The lower facial width changed, although inconsistently, within 3mm over time (P0.05). In conclusion, the mandibular width increased after IVRO but seemed to normalize within approximately 3 years. The lower facial width did not reflect underlying skeletal changes. Therefore, long-term transverse changes after IVRO can be considered clinically irrelevant.

This case report describes the successful treatment of severely impacted mandibular second molars with severe apical root resorption of the mandibular first molars. The vertically impacted second molars were orthodontically moved (using orthodontic mini-implants) without additional root resorption of the first molars. The orthodontic treatment provided a satisfactory and stable outcome by improving the periodontium surrounding the first and second molars. The treatment also eliminated the need for prosthetic treatment by preserving the first and second molars.

Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) films were homogeneously coated onto aluminum powders. The synthesized PTFE-coated aluminum (PTFE/Al) powders showed a microstructure of spherical Al powders covered with PTFE film of a few hundreds of nm in thickness. The PTFE/Al powders showed significantly increased gravimetric energy of 4.80 kJ g −1 compared to the value of 0.88 kJ g −1 for pure Al powders during oxidation in a temperature range of 25–1450 °C. It was found that the PTFE/Al interface mixed with oxygen and fluorine atoms provided a vigorous oxidation of the Al powders. These results clearly confirm that the PTFE layer acts as a protective layer and an oxidation helper.

Tooth autotransplantation is a treatment option that has the potential to restore masticatory function and esthetics to edentulous spaces resulting from extracted teeth. The purpose of this study was to investigate the prognostic factors and clinical outcomes for autotransplanted teeth with complete root formation.Patients who had received tooth autotransplantation in the Department of Conservative Dentistry, Yonsei University Dental Hospital, Seoul, Korea, from July 2001 to August 2010 were electronically searched, and a total of 105 cases of autotransplanted teeth met the inclusion criteria. Tooth survival, inflammatory root resorption (IRR), ankylosis, and related prognostic factors were assessed by using the survival analysis that was based on clinical and radiographic examination.The cumulative tooth survival rate was 68.2% at 12 years after the tooth autotransplantation. According to the Cox proportional hazard regression analysis, patient age, donor position, and extraoral time were significantly associated with tooth survival (P.05). Donor extraction type was significantly associated with IRR (P.05), and transplantation timing and initial stability were significantly associated with ankylosis (P.05) CONCLUSIONS: Patients less than 45 years of age, maxillary donor teeth, and an extraoral time of less than 15 minutes were associated with significantly higher tooth survival. Surgical extraction of the donor tooth was associated with a significantly higher incidence of IRR. Immediate transplantation after the extraction of the recipient site's tooth and low initial stability were associated with a significantly lower incidence of ankylosis.

Background Identifying changes in serum metabolites before the occurrence of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is an important approach for finding novel biomarkers of AMI. Methods In this prospective cohort study, serum samples obtained from patients at risk of AMI (n = 112) and non-risk controls (n = 89) were tested using high-resolution metabolomics (HRM). Partial least-squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA), along with univariate analysis using a false discovery rate (FDR) of q = 0.05 were performed to discriminate metabolic profiles and to determine significantly different metabolites between healthy control and AMI risk groups. Results PLS-DA significantly separated the AMI risk sera from control sera. The metabolites associated with amino acid biosynthesis, 2-oxocarboxylic acid, tryptophan, and amino sugar and nucleotide sugar metabolism pathways were mainly elevated in patients at risk of AMI. Further validation and quantification by MS/MS showed that tryptophan, carnitine, L-homocysteine sulfinic acid (L-HCSA), and cysteic acid (CA) were upregulated, while L-cysteine and L-cysteine sulfinic acid (L-CSA) were downregulated, specifically among AMI risk sera. Additionally, these discriminant metabolic profiles were not related to hypertension, smoking or alcoholism. Conclusion In conclusion, detecting upregulated L-HCSA and CA along with carnitine among patients at risk for AMI could serve as promising non-invasive biomarkers for early AMI detection.

Summary Preadipocyte differentiation can be induced upon a hormonal treatment, and various factors secreted by the cells may contribute to adipogenesis. In this study, RNA-seq revealed Serpina3c as a critical factor regulating the signaling network during adipogenesis. Serpina3c is a secretory protein and is highly expressed in fat tissues. Knockdown of Serpina3c decreased adipogenesis by attenuating the mitotic clonal expansion of 3T3-L1 cells. These cells exhibited decreases in integrin α5, which abolished the phosphorylation of integrin β3. We found that Serpina3c inhibits a serine protease that regulates integrin α5 degradation. Knockdown of Serpina3c disrupted integrin-mediated insulin growth factor 1 (IGF-1) signaling and ERK activation. Serpina3c-mediated regulation of integrin-IGF-1 signaling is also associated with AKT activation, which affects the nuclear translocation of GSK3β. Altogether, our results indicate that Serpina3c secreted from differentiating adipocytes inhibits serine proteases to modulate integrin/IGF-1-mediated ERK and AKT signaling and thus is a critical factor contributing to adipogenesis., Graphical Abstract, Highlights • RNA-seq revealed Serpina3c as a critical factor regulating adipogenesis • Knockdown of Serpina3c attenuated the mitotic clonal expansion of 3T3-L1 cells • Knockdown of Serpina3c leads to the degradation of integrin α5 • Serpina3c regulates integrin-mediated IGF-1 signaling and ERK/AKT activation, Molecular Biology; Developmental Biology; Transcriptomics

Monoacylglycerol O-acyltransferase (MGAT) is an enzyme that is involved in triglyceride synthesis by catalyzing the formation of diacylglycerol from monoacylglycerol and fatty acyl CoAs. Recently, we reported that MGAT1 has a critical role in hepatic TG accumulation and that its suppression ameliorates hepatic steatosis in a mouse model. However, the function of MGAT enzymes in hepatic lipid accumulation has not been investigated in humans. Unlike in rodents, MGAT3 as well as MGAT1 and MGAT2 are present in humans. In this study, we evaluated the differences between MGAT subtypes and their association with peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ), a regulator of mouse MGAT1 expression. In human primary hepatocytes, basal expression of MGAT1 was lower than that of MGAT2 or MGAT3, but was strongly induced by PPARγ overexpression. A luciferase assay as well as an electromobility shift assay revealed that human MGAT1 promoter activity is driven by PPARγ by direct binding to at least two regions of the promoter in 293T and HepG2 cells. Moreover, siRNA-mediated suppression of MGAT1 expression significantly attenuated lipid accumulation by PPARγ overexpression in HepG2 cells, as evidenced by oil-red-O staining. These results suggest that human MGAT1 has an important role in fatty liver formation as a target gene of PPARγ, and blocking MGAT1 activity could be an efficient therapeutic way to reduce nonalcoholic fatty liver diseases in humans.

This case report demonstrates the successful treatment of facial asymmetry with condylar hyperplasia with limited surgical and orthodontic treatment. A high condylectomy was performed to shorten the elongated condyle and to remove its active growth site. The maxillary molars on the affected side were then orthodontically intruded using temporary anchorage devices to improve the occlusal cant and posterior open bite of the unaffected side. This combined surgical-orthodontic treatment provided a satisfactory outcome without additional orthognathic surgery.

Aluminum powder is used for energetic materials due to high energy density. Controlling oxidation rate, oxidation temperature, and reaction enthalpy is important parameters prior to practical use. Here, we engineered static and dynamic properties of oxidation of Al particles by mixing CNTs (carbon nanotubes) having high thermal conductivity and large exothermic energy. Morphologies of Al/CNT mixture were engineered by a mechanical pulverization. Among various morphologies of Al/CNT mixture of i) CNTs adhered on the surface of Al particles, ii) CNTs partially embedded onto Al particles, forming an urchin type, and iii) CNTs fully embedded into aggregated Al particles, urchin type Al/CNT revealed the largest exothermic enthalpy at the lower oxidation temperature for both γ-Al2O3 and α-Al2O3 phases. This was attributed to the fast heat transfer into Al particles via partially embedded CNTs. Large exothermic enthalpy as well as the mass of alumina were obtained in oxidation of Al/CNT mixture compared to pure Al particles up to 1000 °C oxidation. The exothermic enthalpy showed strong dependence on the CNT content, increasing to −188 kJ/g at 20 wt% CNT. The engineering ability of thermal properties in Al particles with CNTs opens a new research area for diverse use of solid fuel Al.

Introduction The aim of this study was to examine the effect of pulp cell injection on host angiogenesis during wound healing. Methods Pulp cells were isolated from extracted premolars by the outgrowth method. Fluorescently labeled pulp cells or phosphate-buffered saline were locally injected into a mouse wound healing model. Wound healing was evaluated using photographs, histology, and real-time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction. Injected cells were traced. Angiogenesis was measured by performing immunohistochemical staining of CD31, a marker of vascular endothelial cells. The level of secreted vascular endothelial growth factor in the pulp cell conditioned medium (CM) was compared with the CM of fibroblasts and keratinocytes. The paracrine effect of pulp CM on angiogenesis was evaluated by tubular network formation using endothelial cells. Results The local injection of pulp cells enhanced wound closure during the initial stage when compared to the injection of phosphate-buffered saline. The amount of extracellular matrix production and the expression of CD31+ cells were also increased in response to pulp cell injection when compared with the injection of phosphate-buffered saline. The fluorescently labeled pulp cells were engrafted into the hair follicles of the adjacent normal dermis but not into the wound site per se. A significantly higher level of vascular endothelial growth factor was secreted into the CM of pulp cells when compared with dermal fibroblast and keratinocytes. Tubular network formation of endothelial cells and the proliferation of dermal fibroblasts were significantly enhanced by the application of pulp cell CM when compared with control media. Conclusions Our results show that local injection of pulp cells is effective in enhancing wound healing during the initial proliferative phase, especially through paracrine mechanisms regulating host angiogenesis and proliferation.

In nongrowing patients with skeletal Class II malocclusion, premolar extraction or maxillary molar distalization can be used as camouflage treatment. Orthodontic miniscrew implants are widely used for this purpose because they do not produce undesirable reciprocal effects and do not depend on the patient's cooperation. This article reports on maxillary molar distalization by using miniscrew implants to correct a Class II problem. The main considerations of molar distalization treatment with miniscrew implants are discussed.

Although human consumption of Bacillus polyfermenticus provides several health benefits, the probiotic effect of this bacterium against colonic inflammation has not yet, to our knowledge, been studied. Therefore, we induced colitis in mice by oral or intrarectal administration of dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) or trinitrobenzenosulfonic acid (TNBS), respectively, and investigated the effect of B. polyfermenticus on colitis. We found that mice treated with DSS or TNBS along with B. polyfermenticus had reduced mortality and severity of colitis (weight loss, diarrhea, and mucosal damages) than mice treated with DSS or TNBS alone. B. polyfermenticus also reduced the expression of inflammatory molecules, including chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 1, intercellular adhesion molecule, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha, but enhanced the expression of the antiinflammatory cytokine interleukin-10 in the inflamed mouse colon. Moreover, B. polyfermenticus suppressed apoptosis both in vivo in inflamed colonic mucosa and in vitro in colonic epithelial cells stimulated with apoptosis-inducing agents (FasL or Clostridium difficile Toxin A) when the apoptotic response was determined by a terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling assay and cleavage of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase or caspase-3, respectively. Treating colonic epithelial cells with B. polyfermenticus-conditioned medium (BPCM) enhanced cell proliferation and induced the phosphoinositide 3-kinases/Akt signaling pathway, suggesting that this bacterium can promote epithelial cell proliferation. BPCM also promoted the migration of colonic epithelial cells. These data suggest that B. polyfermenticus ameliorates colonic inflammation by suppressing apoptosis and promoting epithelial cell proliferation and migration.

Analyses of the chitosan disks treated with proton ion beams were performed with Fourier transformed infrared spectrometer spectroscopy (FT-IR), 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (1H-NMR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), color changes and relative viscosity changes. The chitosan disks were irradiated with proton ion beams from a cyclotron ion generator with high energy after calculating in advance the conditions of proton ion beam irradiation such as beam species, time and energies with stopping and range of ions in matter software. Detection of any significant changes in the chemical structures of the beam-treated chitosan samples was not noticed when we compared to those of its corresponding chemical structures of the untreated ones by FT-IR and 1H-NMR. However, reductions of the molecular weights of the beam-treated samples were verified by the results of both measurement of their relative viscosities and visualization of its color changes. Irradiation of proton ion beams on the chitosan disks led to visual changes of its colors from white to brown. Further analysis of their atomic composition ratios and chemical structures with their survey scans and high resolution C1s XPS spectroscopy demonstrated significantly noticeable differences such as new peak positions in their chemical structures between the untreated and the ion beam-treated chitosans. These results indicated that analyses by XPS and measurement of relative viscosity changes were far more sensitive than those by NMR and FT-IR were in analyzing the changes of the chemical structures of the ion beam-treated chitosan samples in this study. These results indicated that reduction of chitosan molecular weight is possible by irradiation of proton ion beams with high energy.

Control of water-soluble chitosan molecular weight was performed by irradiation of cyclotron proton ion beams by changing treatment conditions such as beam irradiation time for upto 10 min, beam energies as well as beam distances between the sample surface and beam after pre-calculating the sample positions with Stopping and Range of Ions in Matter software. Irradiation of high energy cyclotron ion beam induced significant reduction of molecular weights of water-soluble chitosan as observed by changes in both relative viscosity and molecular weights measured by gel permeation chromatography. The molecular weights of the beam-treated chitosan were reduced to 55–20% compared to that of the untreated one, depending on the beam irradiation conditions such as treatment time and beam energy. Polydispersity index indicated that the reduced chitosan molecular weights were wider distributed compared to that of the untreated chitosan samples.

Hyaluronic acid-based hydrogel was synthesized by reacting hyaluronic acid with aminopropyl methacrylate and then with poly(ethylene oxide). Gelation was observed within 5.5 h with a rheometer by employing viscous and elastic modulus. While the hydrogel was analyzed by light and electron microscopy for morphological observation, other analysis was performed by Fourier-transformed infrared and electron spectroscopy for chemical analysis. Understanding of a putative reaction scheme was outlined by reference to N -(3-diethylpropyl)- N -ethylcarbodiimide hydrochloride for acrylation of hyaluronic acid and by a Michael-type reaction between methacrylate in aminopropyl methacrylate and thiol arms in PEO end groups.

Placing orthodontic mini-implants allows clinicians to use simple and esthetic appliances to retract anterior teeth. This usage is reported here in a patient with lip protrusion and mild crowding. The anterior teeth were splinted on the lingual side and retracted by an elastomeric chain connected to orthodontic mini-implants without the use of an archwire or brackets. After space closure, brackets were bonded for detailing individual teeth. The desired movement of the anterior teeth was achieved by changing the application point of the retraction force and adjusting the line of force.

We tested a possibility of surface modification of a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) film by irradiating either proton or helium ion beams for up to 20 min with both beam energies from 9 MeV to 50 MeV and beam currents from 1 nA to 100 nA. The treated PTFE films were evaluated by dynamic water contact angle measurement, scanning electron microscopy, X-photoelectron microscopy and cellular adhesion. The results indicated that lower energy and helium ion beams induced better surface modification than proton beams did, judged by the above chemical and physical changes of the films.

Caudal-related homeobox transcription factors are involved in the definition of the anteroposterior axis and intestinal development. Recent reports indicate that dysregulation of CDX1 and CDX2, the human homologues of Drosophila caudal, are associated with several types of cancer. Very little is known, however, about the regulatory mechanisms that direct the caudal-related homeobox gene expression. In this study, we have identified the binding sites for bHLH–PAS proteins, referred to as CNS midline element (CME), in the 5′-flanking region of the Drosophila caudal gene. Analyses using transgenic flies carrying a caudal-lacZ fusion gene bearing a wild-type or mutant CME indicate that the CME sites are required for caudal gene expression in vivo. We also determined that the caudal promoter activity can be regulated by Trachealess (Trh)/Tango (Tgo) bHLH–PAS proteins, via the CME sites. Our results suggest that the Drosophila caudal gene is a target of the Trh/Tgo bHLH–PAS proteins.

To improve our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying early embryo development, further characterization of gene activity in oocytes and embryos is urgently required. The transition from the two-cell to four-cell stage is particularly important in pre-implantation embryonic development, as it involves transcriptional reprogramming and cellular differentiation. In this study, we used a 7.4 K cDNA microarray to screen mRNA transcript levels in the pre-implantation mouse embryo. Real-time PCR was used to confirm microarray data. We profiled 7,410 genes and identified 4,562 genes that were differentially expressed in the pre-implantation embryo. We selected a total of 248 genes with significant expression changes that are functionally involved in the two-cell and two-cell block embryo. Of these genes, 114 were down-regulated and the remainder (n=134) were up-regulated in the two-cell embryo. This study provides a developmental map of a large number of genes in the pre-implantation mouse embryo with particular emphasis on gene expression in the two-cell embryo and two-cell block embryo. Further investigations based on this data will provide a better understanding of the effects of various external conditions and may facilitate comparative analysis of pre-implantation development in other mammalian species, including human.

We engineered a vascular media tissue by employing a hybrid ePTFE graft scaffold and vascular smooth muscle cells. The hybrid ePTFE scaffolds consisted of two porous biodegradable poly(lactide-co-glycolide) thin layers on the inner and the outer surfaces of the non-biodegradable ePTFE layer. The porous structure of the PLGA layers was obtained for control of tissue regeneration by gas-forming of ammonium bicarbonates as porogens. To improve tissue regeneration, we coated with gelatin on the porous biodegradable PLGA surface after testing its cellular adhesion over other biopolymers such as chitosan, fibrin and collagen. Media tissue regeneration was successfully achieved on the PLGA layer and their result was dependent on employment of gelatin coating and tissue culture period. While the two PLGA layers were expected to serve as biological layers of intima, media and adventitia of the blood vessel after their transformation into engineered tissues, the ePTFE in the middle of the hybrid scaffold did as a mechanically supporting layer.

Spin–orbit effects on the spectroscopic constants (bond lengths, dissociation energies and harmonic vibrational frequencies) for HX, X 2 (X = Cl, Br and I) and IZ (Z = F, Cl and Br) molecules have been studied using shape-consistent relativistic effective core potentials (RECPs) with effective one-electron spin–orbit operator at HF, MP2, CCSD and CCSD(T) levels. Basis sets of pVTZ quality have been derived for Cl, Br and I for the present work. The spectroscopic constants calculated by the two-component RECP method are in good agreement with those from all-electron Dirac–Coulomb calculations with the basis sets of the similar quality at all levels of theory considered, suggesting that RECP methods mimic all-electron Dirac–Coulomb methods calculations rather well for molecules. Spin–orbit effects elongate the bond lengths, while reduce the dissociation energies and harmonic vibrational frequencies. From the spin–orbit effects on the spectroscopic constants, especially on dissociation energies of IF, ICl, IBr and I 2 , it is confirmed that the magnitude of spin–orbit effects increases in the F

Bond lengths, harmonic vibrational frequencies and dissociation energies of TlAt and (1 1 3)(1 1 7) are calculated at the highly correlated level of theory with and without spin–orbit interactions. Spin–orbit effects of Group 13 and Group 17 elements almost cancel out for Re. The spin–orbit effects on De of TlAt(−1.20 eV) and (1 1 3)(1 1 7)(−2.05 eV) are roughly the sum of those of the corresponding element hydrides. Element 113 becomes more electronegative than Element 117 upon inclusion of spin–orbit interactions in the (1 1 3)(1 1 7) molecule. Electron correlations and spin–orbit effects are almost additive in the TlAt molecule, but the nonadditivity is quite pronounced for the (1 1 3)(1 1 7) molecule.

Introduction Anterior open bite results from the combined influences of skeletal, dental, functional, and habitual factors. The long-term stability of anterior open bite corrected with absolute anchorage has not been thoroughly investigated. The purpose of this study was to examine the long-term stability of anterior open-bite correction with intrusion of the maxillary posterior teeth. Methods Nine adults with anterior open bite were treated by intrusion of the maxillary posterior teeth. Lateral cephalographs were taken immediately before and after treatment, 1 year posttreatment, and 3 years posttreatment to evaluate the postintrusion stability of the maxillary posterior teeth. Results On average, the maxillary first molars were intruded by 2.39 mm (P Conclusions Most relapse occurred during the first year of retention. Thus, it is reasonable to conclude that the application of an appropriate retention method during this period clearly enhances the long-term stability of the treatment.

We have performed large-scale configuration interaction calculations for the electronic states of KRb dissociating into 4s+5s, 4s+5p, 4p+5s, 4s+4d, 4s+6s, 5s+5s, 3d+5s, 5s+6p and 5s+5d using the averaged relativistic effective core potentials. The core–valence correlation effect has been included through the use of the core-polarization potential. The core–core repulsion has been explicitly included by using small-core potential. Comparison with previous calculations without this term shows significant changes of the spectroscopic constants. The spin–orbit effect has been calculated by employing relativistic effective core potentials with spin–orbit operators. The most important changes caused by the spin–orbit interaction is the transformation of the 1 3 Π and 2 1 Σ + states into five states characterized by the Ω quantum number. The 1 1 Π state appears to be significantly perturbed by the 2 3 Σ + state through the spin–orbit coupling. The electric dipole moments and transition dipole moments for the excited states are also computed.

Background/Objectives: This study aimed to determine the epidemiology of nosocomial infections (NIs), common microorganisms and cost. Patients included in the study were taken from a newborn intensive care unit (NICU), in Children hospital No.1. Methods: A prospective cohort study was performed. The subjects were 892 neonates who were admitted to the NICU, survived longer than 48 hours after transferred to another unit, between Jan. 1, 2008 to Sep. 30, 2008. NIs were identified according to the NNIS definition. Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics by Stata 10. Results: Cumulative incidence rate for NIs was 12,4 NIs of 100 admissions, with a total of 111 infections for 892 patients. The most common infections were pneumonia (50%), bloodstream infection (31%), and Surgical site infection (10%). Major pathogens were Gram-negative such as Klebsiella 87 (36,5%), Acinetobacter spp 49 (20,5%). The factors associated with NI was also associated with a significantly increased risk of definite infection (OR > 1.19, 95% CI > 1 and p 7 days of hospitalized, CVC, mechanical ventilation, surgical. hospital stay (25 days for Ni and 16 days for non Ni) and fiscal costs (19,9 million VN Ð for NI and 6,5 million VND for non NI) of these infections are high. Conclusions: Nosocomial infection is a serious problem for neonates who are admitted for intensive care. Since it is associated with increases in morbidity, both hospital stay and fiscal costs of these infections are high. we need strategies for the prevention and treatment of nosocomial infection.

Anterior open bite results from the combined influences of skeletal, dental, functional, and habitual factors. The long-term stability of anterior open bite corrected with absolute anchorage has not been thoroughly investigated. The purpose of this study was to examine the long-term stability of anterior open-bite correction with intrusion of the maxillary posterior teeth.Nine adults with anterior open bite were treated by intrusion of the maxillary posterior teeth. Lateral cephalographs were taken immediately before and after treatment, 1 year posttreatment, and 3 years posttreatment to evaluate the postintrusion stability of the maxillary posterior teeth.On average, the maxillary first molars were intruded by 2.39 mm (P0.01) during treatment and erupted by 0.45 mm (P0.05) at the 3-year follow-up, for a relapse rate of 22.88%. Eighty percent of the total relapse of the intruded maxillary first molars occurred during the first year of retention. Incisal overbite increased by a mean of 5.56 mm (P0.001) during treatment and decreased by a mean of 1.20 mm (P0.05) by the end of the 3-year follow-up period, for a relapse rate of 17.00%. Incisal overbite significantly relapsed during the first year of retention (P0.05) but did not exhibit significant recurrence between the 1-year and 3-year follow-ups.Most relapse occurred during the first year of retention. Thus, it is reasonable to conclude that the application of an appropriate retention method during this period clearly enhances the long-term stability of the treatment.

G A A b st ra ct s (untreated), P F). The beneficial effects of E2 appeared to be mediated through ERb since DPN (ERb agonist), but not PPT (ERa agonist) appeared to decrease epithelial permeability in SAMP mice. Conclusions: These results indicate that estrogen/ERb interaction with IEC may modulate gut epithelial barrier function, potentially by regulating TJ protein expression, and subsequent chronic intestinal inflammation characteristic of CD.