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Diesel exhaust (DE) is an air pollutant containing gaseous compounds and particulate matter. Diesel engines are common on gas extraction and oil sites, leading to complex DE exposure to a broad range of compounds through occupational settings. The US EPA concluded that short-term exposure to DE leads to allergic inflammatory disorders of the airways. To further evaluate the immunotoxicity of DE, the effects of whole-body inhalation of 0.2 and 1 mg/m3 DE (total carbon; 6 h/d for 4 days) were investigated 1-, 7-, and 27-days post exposure in Sprague-Dawley rats using an occupationally relevant exposure system. DE exposure of 1 mg/m3 increased total cellularity, number of CD4+ and CD8+ T-cells, and B-cells at 1 d post-exposure in the lung lymph nodes. At 7 d post-exposure to 1 mg/m3, cellularity and the number of CD4+ and CD8+ T-cells decreased in the LLNs. In the bronchoalveolar lavage, B-cell number and frequency increased at 1 d post-exposure, Natural Killer cell number and frequency decreased at 7 d post-exposure, and at 27 d post-exposure CD8+ T-cell and CD11b+ cell number and frequency decreased with 0.2 mg/m3 exposure. In the spleen, 0.2 mg/m3 increased CD4+ T-cell frequency at 1 and 7 d post-exposure and at 27 d post-exposure increased CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell number and CD8+ T-cell frequency. B-cells were the only immune cell subset altered in the three tissues (spleen, LLNs, and BALF), suggesting the induction of the adaptive immune response. The increase in lymphocytes in several different organ types also suggests an induction of a systemic inflammatory response occurring following DE exposure. These results show that DE exposure induced modifications of cellularity of phenotypic subsets that may impair immune function and contribute to airway inflammation induced by DE exposure in rats.

Objectives: The aim of this retrospective cohort study was to determine the prevalence and correlations between root canal treatment, periapical status, and coronal restoration detected using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) in the elderly Polish population (60–79 years). Methods: A total of 480 CBCT images were assessed. Collected data included: age, gender, the tooth location, direct restoration, decay, single crown, abutment of fixed bridge, the quality of the restoration, root canal treatment, post and core, apical periodontitis (AP), and quality of root filling. Results: The number of teeth in the elderly patients decreased, while the number of endodontically treated teeth increased with age. More teeth were preserved in mandible, the most common group of teeth were incisors. AP was more often detected in the maxilla in general, and in mandibular molars. The over-filling was observed more frequently in maxilla, in maxillary molars and in mandibular premolars, while the short-filling in maxillary and mandibular molars. AP was significantly more often observed in short-filled root canals than in other length criteria (overfilled, adequately, lack of filling). Conclusions: Inadequate prosthetic restoration, presence of post, pulpotomy, missed canals and root canal treated teeth were associated with increased prevalence of AP. Clinical significance: The article indicates the need of treatment of elderly population in Poland. There is the demand to enhance the quality of endodontic and restorative treatment in this population. Additionally, CBCT examination, if indicated, should be implemented in the course of endodontic therapy to provide adequate information to clinicians.

Abstract The central nervous system (CNS) is home to neuronal and glial cells. Traditionally, glia was disregarded as just the structural support across the brain and spinal cord, in striking contrast to neurons, always considered critical players in CNS functioning. In modern times this outdated dogma is continuously repelled by new evidence unravelling the importance of glia in neuronal maintenance and function. Therefore, glia replacement has been considered a potentially powerful therapeutic strategy. Glial progenitors are at the center of this hope, as they are the source of new glial cells. Indeed, sophisticated experimental therapies and exciting clinical trials shed light on the utility of exogenous glia in disease treatment. Therefore, this review article will elaborate on glial-restricted progenitor cells (GRPs), their origin and characteristics, available sources, and adaptation to current therapeutic approaches aimed at various CNS diseases, with particular attention paid to myelin-related disorders with a focus on recent progress and emerging concepts. The landscape of GRP clinical applications is also comprehensively presented, and future perspectives on promising, GRP-based therapeutic strategies for brain and spinal cord diseases are described in detail.

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large group of synthetic surfactants of over 12,000 compounds that are incorporated into numerous products for their chemical and physical properties. Studies have associated PFAS with adverse health effects. Although there is a high potential for dermal exposure, these studies are lacking. The present study evaluated the systemic and immunotoxicity of subchronic 28- or 10-days of dermal exposure, respectively, to PFHpS (0.3125–2.5% or 7.82–62.5 mg/kg/dose) or PFOS (0.5% or 12.5 mg/kg/dose) in a murine model. Elevated levels of PFHpS were detected in the serum and urine, suggesting that absorption is occurring through the dermal route. PFHpS induced significantly increased relative liver weight, significantly decreased relative spleen and thymus weight, altered serum chemistries, and altered histopathology. Additionally, PFHpS significantly reduced the humoral immune response and altered immune subsets in the spleen, suggesting immunosuppression. Gene expression changes were observed in the liver, skin, and spleen of genes involved in fatty acid metabolism, necrosis, and inflammation. Immune-cell phenotyping identified significant decreases in B-cells and CD11b+ monocyte and/or macrophages in the spleen along with decreases in eosinophils and dendritic cells in the skin. These findings support PFHpS absorption through the skin leading to liver damage and immune suppression.

Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of calcium-silicate based sealers and comparing them with a gold standard—an epoxy-based sealant. Two experimental cell lines were used, gingival fibroblasts (hGF) and monocyte/macrophage peripheral blood cell line (SC). The cytotoxicity (XTT assay) and genotoxicity (comet assay) were evaluated both after 24-h and 48-h incubation. Additionally, after 48-h incubation, the cell apoptosis and cell cycle progression was detected. BioRoot Flow induced a significant decrease in hGF cells viability compared to the negative control groups both after 24-h (p 20% DNA damage). BioRoot Flow and BioRoot RCS, may have potential genotoxic effects and induce apoptosis in hGF cells which may irritate periapical tissues, resulting in a delayed healing. The findings of the study would be useful in selection of an appropriate sealant for root canal filling without causing cytotoxicity and genotoxicity.

The article is devoted to determining the specifics of war injuries among people of various ages living in the deoccupied Kyiv and Kharkiv regions of Ukraine. The purpose of the research is to determine the residents’ traumatic experience in the de-occupied territories of Ukraine caused by the Russian-Ukrainian war. The direct effects of PTSD concern intimate relationships such as marriage, social interactions, decreased productivity, and decreased resilience. This study shows that PTSD symptoms are more common for respondents over fifty years of age, who have deficit of social resources. It has been proven that the severity of PTSD symptoms in the residents of the deoccupied Kharkiv region is statistically significantly lower than the symptoms of the residents of the de-occupied Kyiv region, which is due to the longer occupation and more pronounced joy from liberation. Therefore, the appearance of PTSD symptoms in a more delayed period is likely.

This systematic review aims to evaluate whether the application of antioxidant solutions can enhance the bond strength of resin-based materials to sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl)-treated dentin. This study follows the PICOT strategy: population (sodium hypochlorite-treated dentin), intervention (application of antioxidants), control (distilled water), outcome (bond strength), and type of studies (in vitro studies). The systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Electronic databases were searched for in vitro studies evaluating the effects of antioxidants on bond strength to sodium hypochlorite-treated dentin. Two independent reviewers screened articles, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias. Meta-analyses were performed using a random-effects model to compare standardized mean differences in bond strength between antioxidant pretreatment and control groups. Inclusion criteria consisted of in vitro studies that examined the bond strength of resin-based materials to NaOCl-treated dentin with antioxidant application, while exclusion criteria included studies with incomplete data, those not using a control group, or those that did not directly measure bond strength. From 3041 initial records, 29 studies were included in the qualitative analysis and 25 in the meta-analysis. Ascorbic acid, sodium ascorbate, grape seed extract, green tea, and rosmarinic acid significantly improved bond strength to sodium hypochlorite-treated dentin (p < 0.05). The effectiveness of grape seed extract varied with adhesive system type. Hesperidin, p-toluene sulfonic acid, and sodium thiosulfate did not significantly improve bond strength. Most studies had a high risk of bias. This suggests that the conclusions drawn from these studies should be interpreted with caution, and further research with more robust methodologies may be needed to confirm the findings. In conclusion, this systematic review implies that certain antioxidants can improve bond strength to sodium hypochlorite-treated dentin, with efficacy depending on the specific agent and adhesive system used. Further standardized studies are needed to optimize protocols and confirm these findings.

The central aim of adhesive dentistry is to improve the compatibility between current adhesives and a range of substrates by employing diverse application techniques. Therefore, the overarching objective of this review is to offer a comprehensive analysis of dentin bonding systems, starting with an introduction to adhesion and a detailed overview of enamel and dentin structures, their histology, and the impact of dentin structure on resin–dentin bonding. It covers the mechanisms of resin–dentin bonding, including resin adhesive application, bonding mechanisms, and factors influencing efficacy. Further, this review explores the composition of resin adhesive systems, including acidic components, cross-linking monomers, solvents, and other critical elements. It also examines various adhesive strategies—etch-and-rinse, self-etch, and universal adhesives—highlighting their applications and advantages. The review extends to clinical applications of dental adhesion, including direct restorations, indirect restorations, and immediate dentin sealing (IDS), demonstrating the practical implications of adhesive systems in enhancing restoration longevity and performance. In conclusion, despite significant advancements, no gold-standard method for optimal adhesion exists. Each adhesive system has distinct strengths and limitations. The review emphasizes the importance of evaluating methods for achieving durable adhesion and staying current with technological advancements in adhesive systems. Summary: This review provides a thorough analysis of dentin bonding systems, delving into the structures and bonding mechanisms of both enamel and dentin. By exploring various adhesive systems and their components, it highlights the ongoing challenges in achieving optimal resin–dentin adhesion. The review also addresses the clinical applications of dental adhesion, including direct restorations, indirect restorations, and immediate dentin sealing (IDS), illustrating how different adhesive techniques impact clinical outcomes. It underscores the necessity for continuous innovation and assessment of adhesive systems to enhance long-term bonding effectiveness in clinical practice.

We previously have shown that mRNA-based engineering may enhance mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) trafficking. However, optimal conditions for in vitro mRNA engineering of MSCs are unknown. Here, we investigated several independent variables: (1) transfection factor (Lipofectamine 2000 vs. TransIT), (2) mRNA purification method (spin column vs. high-performance liquid chromatography [HPLC] column), and (3) mRNA capping (ARCA vs. β-S-ARCA D1 and β-S-ARCA D2). Dependent variables included protein production based on mRNA template (measured by the bioluminescence of reporter gene luciferase over hours), MSC metabolic activity corresponding with their wellbeing measured by CCK-8 over days, and endogenous expression of genes by RT-qPCR related to innate intracellular immune response and decapping at two time points: days 2 and 5. We have found that Lipofectamine 2000 outperforms TransIT, and used it throughout the study. Then, we showed that mRNA must be purified by HPLC to be relatively neutral to MSCs in terms of metabolic activity and endogenous protein production. Ultimately, we demonstrated that β-S-ARCA D1 enables higher protein production but at the cost of lower MSC metabolic activity, with no impact on RT-qPCR results. Thus Lipofectamine 2000-based in vitro transfection of HPLC-purified and ARCA- or β-S-ARCA D1-capped mRNA is optimal for MSC engineering.

The present case report presents a digital workflow for designing an aesthetic rehabilitation of the upper anterior teeth in an adult male. The patient suffered from a gummy smile resulting from an unfavorable ratio between upper lip length and gingiva/tooth display. In addition, the tooth shapes, color, and position were not accepted by the patient. The treatment planning included gingivectomy based on a digitally designed PMMA guide performed using a soft tissue SOGA laser (Shenzhen Soga Technology Co., Ltd., Shenzhen, China). The preparation was guided by the plastic guides for preparation control created digitally in Exocad software (Rijeka 3.1. Darmstadt, Germany) and printed in three-dimensional plastic. Next, both arches and maximum intercuspation were scanned. The milled lithium disilicate veneers were manufactured using CAD-computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) equipment. The restorations were cemented using a translucent light-cure resin cement (RelyX Universal, 3M ESPE, St. Paul, MN, USA). Next, occlusion adjustment and polishing were executed. Based on the present case report, it can be assumed that the application of digital techniques allows us to achieve an aesthetic and functional result with reduced work time and errors. Emphasizing the clinical impact, these methods enhance patient satisfaction and treatment accuracy in intricate aesthetic rehabilitations.

Abstract The blood–brain barrier (BBB) is a sophisticated structure whose full functionality is required for maintaining the executive functions of the central nervous system (CNS). Tight control of transport across the barrier means that most drugs, particularly large size, which includes powerful biologicals, cannot reach their targets in the brain. Notwithstanding the remarkable advances in characterizing the cellular nature of the BBB and consequences of BBB dysfunction in pathology (brain metastasis, neurological diseases), it remains challenging to deliver drugs to the CNS. Herein, we outline the basic architecture and key molecular constituents of the BBB. In addition, we review the current status of approaches that are being explored to temporarily open the BBB in order to allow accumulation of therapeutics in the CNS. Undoubtedly, the major concern in field is whether it is possible to open the BBB in a meaningful way without causing negative consequences. In this context, we have also listed few other important key considerations that can improve our understanding about the dynamics of the BBB.

Objectives: Bruxism is a repetitive activity of the masticatory muscles characterized by clenching or grinding teeth and/or mandibular stiffening. Bruxism manifests itself in two forms: during sleeping and waking. The etiology of bruxism is multifactorial. The treatment of bruxism is mainly based on making the patient aware of the presence of the condition. The aim of the study was to assess knowledge on the causes and the effects of bruxism among Polish students as well as the possible management. Materials and methods: The anonymous online survey was conducted among students (aged between 18 and 25 years old) of universities across Poland, using the Google Forms platform. The survey contained questions concerning bruxism causes, effects and therapies. All variants of answers in these questions contained true information about bruxism. Results: The study found significant differences in awareness of bruxism among genders in favor of females. The awareness of bruxism among population residing in cities and in villages was comparable (p > 0.05). However, the results should be taken with care due to limited number of students that participated in the study and uneven gender distribution among urban and village residents. Conclusions: Within the limitations of the study it can be concluded that the knowledge of bruxism among Polish students is higher in comparison with the findings from the literature, as well as the superiority of women's awareness of bruxism over men. Future studies should be conducted on greater student population, with even distribution of participants among country areas and variety of universities. Significance: The findings may indicate the need for further education of male young adults, on bruxism causes, possible effects and therapies to increase their awareness of bruxism and encourage early diagnosis and treatment.

AbstractTriclosan is an anti-microbial chemical incorporated into products that are applied to the skin of healthcare workers. Exposure to triclosan has previously been shown to be associated with allergic disease in humans and impact the immune responses in animal models. Additionally, studies have shown that exposure to triclosan dermally activates the NLRP3 inflammasome and disrupts the skin barrier integrity in mice. The skin is the largest organ of the body and plays an important role as a physical barrier and regulator of the immune system. Alterations in the barrier and immune regulatory functions of the skin have been demonstrated to increase the risk of sensitization and development of allergic disease. In this study, the impact of triclosan exposure on the skin barrier and keratinocyte function was investigated using a model of reconstructed human epidermis. The apical surface of reconstructed human epidermis was exposed to triclosan (0.05–0.2%) once for 6, 24, or 48 h or daily for 5 consecutive days. Exposure to triclosan increased epidermal permeability and altered the expression of genes involved in formation of the skin barrier. Additionally, exposure to triclosan altered the expression patterns of several cytokines and growth factors. Together, these results suggest that exposure to triclosan impacts skin barrier integrity and function of human keratinocytes and suggests that these alterations may impact immune regulation.

Solvent evaporation within an adhesive layer is a crucial step during a bonding process. The aim of this current research was to test whether the use of different air temperatures (20 °C, 40 °C, and 60 °C) for solvent evaporation improves the performance of four adhesive systems to dentin. Sixty non-carious human molar teeth were randomly prepared for micro-tensile bond strength (μTBS) tests. Four different adhesive systems, Prime&Bond Universal (PBU), OptiBond Universal (OBU), OptiBond FL (OBFL), and Clearfil SE (CSE), were applied following the manufacturer’s instructions. Three groups based on the air-drying temperature were used: solvent evaporation was performed with either of warm (40 °C), (60 °C), and cold air as control group (20 °C) for 10 s at a distance of 5 cm. In all bonded surfaces, three resin composite (Reflectys, Itena Clinical, Paris, France) layers of 2 mm thickness were built up. The resin–dentin samples were kept in distilled water at 37 °C for 24 h and 6 months, respectively, before μTBS testing. Failure analysis, scanning electron microscopy of resin–dentin bonded interface, and solvent evaporation rate were tested as secondary variables. All analyses were conducted using a significance level of α = 0.05. Bond strength (BS) values were similar among all the adhesive systems used (p > 0.05). Also, the aging factor did not affect the BS (p > 0.05). Only the factor of temperature used for solvent evaporation resulted in a statistically significant effect (p < 0.05), with the temperature of 60 °C being the highest value (p < 0.05). A failure mode evaluation revealed mostly adhesive or mixed modes of failures in all the different temperatures of air used for the solvent evaporation of each adhesive system. The thickness of the adhesive layer and the creation of resin tags varied amongst the temperatures evaluated. For all adhesive systems tested, the use of 40 °C or 60 °C air for solvent evaporation led to an increased mass loss. Warmer temperatures for solvent evaporation contributed positively to bonding performance, enhancing both the quality of the adhesive layer and its interaction with the dentin tissue. Optimizing solvent evaporation with warmer air temperatures (40 °C and 60 °C) significantly improved µTBS, offering a practical means to enhance the quality and longevity of adhesive restorations in esthetic dentistry.

Abstract The genetic background of feline disorders of sex development (DSDs) is poorly understood. We performed comprehensive cytogenetic, molecular, and histological studies of 17 cats with abnormal external genitalia, unusual behavior, or tricolor coats (atypical in males). The DSD phenotype of three cats was associated with sex chromosome abnormalities: X/Y translocation (38,XX SRY+), 37,X/38,XY mosaicism, and XX/XY leukocyte chimerism. The remaining 14 affected cats were classified as XY DSD (SRY-positive). In this group and 38 normal males, we analyzed a priori selected candidate genes (SRY, TAC3, CYP11B1 and LHCGR). Only a previously reported nonpathogenic variant was found in SRY. Moreover, SRY gene copy number was determined, and three variants were observed: 6, 5 (modal), and 4 copies in a single DSD case. The known variants in TAC3 and CYP11B1, responsible for testicular hypoplasia, persistent primary dentition or congenital adrenal hyperplasia, were not found in the study group. Nine novel polymorphisms were identified in the LHCGR gene, one of which, a potentially regulatory indel variant in 5′UTR, was significantly associated (p = 0.0467) with XY DSD. Our report confirmed that abnormalities of sex chromosomes are important causes of feline DSDs. We also showed that the indel variant of LHCGR can be considered a promising marker associated with XY DSD phenotype.

Most hospitals in Poland date back to the 20th century. Due to developments in technology and medicine, these buildings need to be adapted to meet modern needs. Due to these needs and the possibility of EU funding for hospitals, modernisation has become an extremely topical subject. The aim of the research was to identify what types of modernisation work had been carried out after 2004 and to identify the main problems associated with this work. The subject of the study were 38 hospitals from the Lubelskie Voivodeship in which various types of modernisation work had been carried out. Based on the data collected on these hospitals, interviews with selected managers and the authors' own experience of working on the modernisation of hospitals from the 20th century, seven main problems associated with the ten different modernisation works identified were distinguished. The authors formulated ten questions that will be helpful to hospital managers before embarking on building upgrades and that will help them to define the main problems, objectives and a more holistic rather than fragmented approach to adapting hospitals to modern requirements.

Background: Candida albicans and similar species are significant pathogens in immunocompromised and hospitalized individuals, known for mucosal colonization and bloodstream/organ invasion. Many pathogenic fungi, including these species, exhibit autofluorescence (R/OF) under specific light conditions, a feature crucial for their detection. Aim: We investigated the use of a 405 nm diode laser for the direct observation of red/orange autofluorescence of Candida spp., common in the oral cavity, exploring its potential in health screenings. Methods: This study utilized cultures of Candida spp. on Sabouraud dextrose agar with Qdot 655 and 685 for fluorescence benchmarking, illuminated using a 405 nm diode laser (continuous wave, power 250 mW, 0.0425 J/cm² fluence, 0.0014 W/cm² power density). Images were captured using a yellow-filter camera at set intervals (48 to 144 h). Visual and computational analyses evaluated the R/OF in terms of presence, intensity, coloration, and intra-colony variation. Results: Most Candida strains displayed red/orange autofluorescence at all observation times, characterized by varied coloration and intra-colony distribution. Initially, there was an increase in R/OF intensity, which then stabilized in the later stages of observation. Conclusions: The majority of the Candida strains tested are capable of emitting R/OF under 405 nm laser light. This finding opens up new possibilities for integrating R/OF detection into routine dental screenings for Candida spp.

This study aimed to assess the ability of modern resin-based “bioactive” materials (RBMs) to induce dentine remineralisation via mineral deposition and compare the results to those obtained with calcium silicate cements (CSMs). The following materials were employed for restoration of dentine cavities: CSMs: ProRoot MTA (Dentsply Sirona), MTA Angelus (Angelus), Biodentine (Septodont), and TheraCal LC (Bisco); RBMs: ACTIVA BioACTIVE Base/Liner (Pulpdent), ACTIVA Presto (Pulpdent), and Predicta Bioactive Bulk (Parkell). The evaluation of the mineral deposition was performed through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) on the material and dentine surfaces, as well as at the dentine–material interface after immersion in simulated body fluid. Additionally, the Ca/P ratios were also calculated in all the tested groups. The specimens were analysed after setting (baseline) and at 24 h, 7, 14, and 28 days. ProRoot MTA, MTA Angelus, Biodentine, and TheraCal LC showed significant surface precipitation, which filled the gap between the material and the dentine. Conversely, the three RBMs showed only a slight ability to induce mineral precipitation, although none of them was able to remineralise the dentine–material interface. In conclusion, in terms of mineral precipitation, modern “bioactive” RBMs are not as effective as CSMs in inducing dentine remineralisation; these latter represent the only option to induce a possible reparative process at the dentin–material interface.