Chung-Hsien Chou, Kuo-Wei Chang, Wan-Wen Hung
et al.
Background/purpose: Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), including oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), remains a major malignancy with limited therapeutic efficacy. Apoptosis-inducing factor mitochondria-associated 2 (AIFM2), also known as ferroptosis suppressor protein 1, regulates ferroptosis and tumor progression. This study investigated the oncogenic function, clinical relevance, and regulation of AIFM2 in OSCC. Materials and methods: Transcriptomic data from TCGA HNSCC and in-house OSCC RNA-Seq datasets were analyzed to assess AIFM2 expression and its association with clinicopathological features and outcomes. Functional assays evaluated the effects of AIFM2 knockdown or overexpression on OSCC cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and therapeutic response. MicroRNAs targeting AIFM2 were identified through bioinformatics, luciferase reporter, and mimic assays. A Light Gradient Boosting Machine (LGBM) model was used for prognostic prediction. Results: AIFM2 overexpression was associated with advanced stage, poor tumor differentiation, and unfavorable survival in HNSCC/OSCC. AIFM2 knockdown suppressed, whereas its overexpression enhanced, OSCC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, while exerting minimal effects on cisplatin, palbociclib, or cold atmospheric plasma sensitivity. miR-32-5p and miR-432-5p directly targeted AIFM2 and were downregulated in tumors. AIFM2-associated transcripts were enriched in pathways related to oxidative stress, lipid metabolism, and E2F targets. The LGBM-derived AIFM2 gene signature demonstrated strong prognostic predictive power. Conclusion: AIFM2 acts as an oncogenic driver in OSCC, regulated by tumor-suppressive miR-32-5p and miR-432-5p, and serves as a potential prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target.
Mehvish Aqil, Malik Istikhar Ali Sajjad , Mehr Muhammad Imran
et al.
Background: Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM), a diverse group of environmental organisms rapidly proliferating in water, soil, and dust, are becoming a common cause of clinical disease. This study analyzed patient data from two major hospitals in Faisalabad, Pakistan, to improve early detection of NTM lung disease and to guide clinical practice in seeking earlier and quicker intervention.
Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted from January 2020 to December 2021, using the records of 294 tuberculosis patients at Allied Hospital and DHQ Hospital, Faisalabad. Non-probability convenience sampling was used for sample collection and sample size was collected using OpenEpi 3.0.0. Data from patients with NTM lung disease were checked. The diagnosis was based on criteria defined by the ATS/IDSA (a clinical, radiological and microbiological evidence). Testing of specimens (sputum, BAL fluid, puncture fluid) was conducted using AFB smear, culture (MGIT 960) and species identification by molecular techniques. Chi-square, Wilcoxon tests and logistic regression were performed using SPSS version 26.0.p<0.05 was considered as significant.
Results: There were 294 patients (147 males; 147 females); median age 61 years, 77.2% had bronchiectasis. The most frequently identified species was the Mycobacterium avium-intracellulare complex (MAC 56.1%) followed by M. kansasii (19%) and M. abscessus (15.3%). Sputum cultures had the highest positivity rate (87.4%), outperforming BAL fluid (80.3%) and puncture fluid (61.5%).
Conclusion: The M. avium-intracellulare complex is the most common NTM species found in patients in these hospitals. The signs of expectoration, gender and bronchiectasis increased likelihood of BAL culture positivity, which aids in diagnosis.
Esra Bilgi-Ozyetim, Gökçen Dinçer, Ammar Sulaiman
et al.
Abstract Background This study aims to evaluate the stress distribution in peri-implant bone, implant surfaces, and within the framework material under vertical and oblique loads, considering various angulations and abutment types of bendable one-piece implants in the All-on-4 concept. Methods A three-dimensional model of an edentulous mandible was constructed. Six different configurations were modeled according to prosthesis connection type and inclination of the posterior implants based on the All-on-4 protocol. Four one-piece implants were placed in each model and a cobalt-chromium frameworks with 14 mm cantilever lengths were designed. Under vertical and oblique loading conditions, maximum principal stress and minimum principal stress values were obtained for cortical and trabecular bone and von Mises stress values were calculated for implants and frameworks. Results Implant angulation, connection type, and loading conditions affected stress distribution in the peri-implant bone, implants, and frameworks. Higher stress values were observed in posterior implants with increased angulation. Screw-retained models demonstrated greater stress values compared to cement-retained ones under both loading conditions. Conclusions For optimal stress distribution in peri-implant bone and frameworks, cement-retained prosthesis may be preferred, especially in cases with increased implant angulation in one-piece bendable systems. Additionally, careful consideration of posterior implant angulation and loading conditions is crucial to minimize the excessive stress and to enhance long-term stability. Clinical trial number Not applicable.
(1) Background: Advancements in dental imaging technologies have significantly transformed diagnostic and surgical practices. The integration of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), artificial intelligence (AI), augmented reality (AR), and virtual reality (VR) is enhancing clinical precision, streamlining workflows, and redefining dental education. This review examines the evolution, applications, and future potential of these technologies in modern dental practice. (2) Methods: A narrative literature review was conducted, synthesizing findings from recent studies on digital radiography, CBCT, AI-assisted diagnostics, 3D imaging, and involving simulation tools (AR/VR). Peer-reviewed journal articles, systematic reviews, and clinical studies were analyzed to explore their impact on diagnosis, treatment planning, surgical execution, and training. (3) Results: Digital and 3D imaging modalities have improved diagnostic accuracy and reduced radiation exposure. AI applications enhance image interpretation, automate clinical tasks, and support treatment simulations. AR and VR technologies provide involved, competency-based surgical training and real-time intraoperative guidance. Integrating 3D printing and portable imaging expands accessibility and personalization in care delivery. (4) Conclusions: The integration of CBCT, AI, AR, and VR represents a paradigm shift in dentistry, elevating precision, efficiency, and patient outcomes. Continued research, standardization, and ethical practice will be essential for widespread adoption and maximizing clinical benefits.
Maria Fernanda Cavalcante MEIRA, Gabriela Leal Peres FERNANDES, Andréa Simone Stucchi DE CAMARGO
et al.
Abstract The incorporation of bioactive agents into resin-modified glass ionomer cement (RMGIC) is a promising strategy to improve its mechanical strength and biofilm control, especially for patients with active dental caries. Objective This study aimed to evaluate the effects of incorporating ZnONPs and CaGP into RMGIC on its mechanical and microbiological properties. Design Six groups were tested: 1) RMGIC (without CaGP/ZnONPs); 2) RMGIC-1.0%ZnONPs; 3) RMGIC-2.0%ZnONPs; 4) RMGIC-3.0%CaGP; 5) RMGIC-3.0%CaGP-1.0%ZnONPs; and 6) RMGIC-3.0%CaGP-2.0%ZnONPs. The compressive strength (CS), diametral tensile strength (DTS), and surface hardness (SH) were evaluated after 24 hours and 7 days. Antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity were evaluated using agar diffusion and biofilm metabolic activity (XTT) assays. Results After 24 hours, all the groups showed similar DTS values (p>0.05), except for RMGIC-3.0%CaGP-1.0%ZnONPs, which showed the highest DTS value (p<0.05). Comparing 24 hours and 7 days, the DTS values of RMGIC-3.0%CaGP-2.0%ZnONPs, RMGIC-3.0%CaGP, and RMGIC-3.0%CaGP-2.0%ZnONPs were similar (p=0.360). After 24 hours, the RMGIC group showed the CS highest value, followed by RMGIC-2.0%ZnONPs (p < 0.05). After 7 days, the RMGIC-3.0%CaGP-1.0%ZnONPs group exhibited the highest CS value, approximately 15% higher than RMGIC (p<0.05). The RMGIC-1.0%ZnONPs group exhibited significantly higher SH at 24 hours (p=0.621). At 7 days, the highest SH value was observed for the RMGIC-3.0%CaGP-1.0%ZnONPs group (p<0.05). Regarding antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity, including results from biofilm metabolism assays, the RMGIC-3.0%CaGP-1.0%ZnONPs group demonstrated the most effective antimicrobial and inhibitory effects (p<0.05). Conclusion This study demonstrated that adding ZnONPs and CaGP to RMGIC enhanced its mechanical and antimicrobial and antibiofilm properties, suggesting enhanced mechanical performance and improved protection against cariogenic biofilms—critical factors for successful restorative treatments. Therefore, the addition of ZnONPs and CaGP is a promising strategy to develop advanced restorative materials that improve clinical outcomes, especially for patients with active dental caries.
Atefeh Yousefi Jordehi, Saeed Abdollahi, Ghazal Golshahirad
et al.
Objective: This study evaluated the effects of different adhesive strategies and silane application on the repair bond strength of bulk-fill composites.Methods: Seventy specimens were prepared using a bulk-fill condensable composite. After thermocycling, they were randomly divided into five groups (n = 14) based on the bonding protocol: Group 1: Gluma Bond 5 (two-step etch-and-rinse), Group 2: Silane + Gluma Bond 5, Group 3: Gluma Bond Universal (self-etch mode), Group 4: Silane + Gluma Bond Universal (self-etch mode), and Group 5: Gluma Bond Universal (etch-and-rinse mode). The repair process involved treating the aged composite surface according to the assigned adhesive protocol, after which bulk-fill composite was placed in molds positioned against the treated surface to complete the restoration. Shear bond strength (SBS) was measured using a universal testing machine, and failure modes were determined. The data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and Fisher’s exact test (α = 0.05).Results: The mean SBS values (MPa) were: Group 1 = 9.37 ± 3.04, Group 2 = 8.37 ± 2.86, Group 3 = 7.44 ± 3.43, Group 4 = 8.27 ± 3.34, and Group 5 = 7.27 ± 2.65. No statistically significant differences were found in bond strength (P = 0.393) or failure mode distribution (P = 0.422) among the groups.Conclusions: Neither the adhesive type (etch-and-rinse versus universal) nor the application mode of universal adhesive (self-etch versus etch-and-rinse) significantly affected the repair bond strength of aged bulk-fill composites. In addition, silane application did not improve bond strength during composite repair.
The present case report describes the non-surgical treatment of alveolar inferior nerve
paresthesia caused by the extrusion of calcium hydroxide as intracanal medicament. A
45-year-old female patient had a chief complaint of numbness and pain in the left lower lip
region for 2 months. Radiographic examination revealed calcium hydroxide overflow into
the mandibular canal. Irrigation of the root canal system with saline using a 27-gauge needle was done to remove as much calcium hydroxide as possible but proved ineffective in
removing material from the outside tissues. Root canal treatment was completed in 1 week,
and non-surgical paresthesia treatment with steroids and pregabalin was done for one
month. In the 1-year follow-up control, the paresthesia had reduced significantly. In a 4-year
follow-up visit, there was a complete resolution of paresthesia, and the radiographic analysis showed that calcium hydroxide was completely resorbed.
Etienne Lefrançois, Victor Delanoue, Samuel Morice
et al.
<b>Background:</b> The present article describes a step-by-step maximally digitalized workflow protocol with computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) in partial-arch edentulous patients rehabilitated with fixed dental prostheses and removable partial dentures (FDPs and RPDs). <b>Methods:</b> Facial digitalization, intraoral scans, and functional mandibular movement recordings were used to create a 4D virtual patient on commercially available CAD software. The fixed components including post-and-cores, both metal–ceramic with extra-coronal attachment and monolithic zirconia crowns, and the RPDs were manufactured by computer numerical controlled direct milling. <b>Results:</b> This innovative digital approach using the virtual patient and the superimposition of interim RPDs fitted in the mouth has been used to provide fixed and removable rehabilitation to the patient without clinical complications with 2 years of follow-up. <b>Conclusions:</b> Within the limitations of this report, the developed combined prosthesis fabrication technique allowed optimization of the production by decreasing the clinical steps and laboratory procedures in partial-arch edentulous rehabilitated with FDPs and RPDs.
Linda Batsa Debrah, Charles Gyasi, Monica Ahiadorme
et al.
Abstract Background Onchocerciasis causes chronic systemic inflammation. Several studies have used markers such as haemato-biochemical indices to predict the occurrence of systemic inflammation. This study assessed the variability and predictability of haemato-biochemical indices and blood composite ratios (BCRs) in microfilariae positive (MF+) and microfilariae negative (MF-) subgroups of onchocercomata participants. Methods One hundred and five (105) MF + and 34 MF- participants were retrospectively recruited into the study. Screening for the presence of O. volvulus microfilariae was done from skin snips taken from the left and right iliac crests of participants using established and approved protocols. Haematological and biochemical indices were measured using standard laboratory automated analyzers. Blood composite ratios (BCRs) were calculated as ratios of the absolute parameters involved. Results A significantly increased total WBC, absolute eosinophil, eosinophil percent and absolute basophil were observed in the MF + participants compared to MF- participants. Reduced gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) with increased estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was significantly associated with MF + participants compared to MF- participants. BCRs were significantly higher for eosinophil-to-neutrophil ratio (ENR), eosinophil-to-monocyte ratio (EMR), eosinophil-to-basophil ratio (EBR) and eosinophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (ELR) in MF + participants compared to MF- participants. After multivariate adjustment, onchocercomata participants with increased eosinophil counts (aOR = 13.86, 95% CI [2.07–92.90], p = 0.007), ENR x10 (aOR = 1.42, 95% CI [1.05–1.93], p = 0.025), EMR (aOR = 2.64, 95% CI [1.25–5.60], p = 0.011), EBR (aOR = 1.07, 95% CI [1.01–1.10], p = 0.020) and ELR x10 (aOR = 1.69, 95% CI [1.14–2.51], p = 0.009) were more likely to have microfilaridermia. Conclusions Elevated eosinophil counts with higher ENR, EMR, EBR and ELR levels are significantly associated with microfilaridermia in onchocercomata participants. Combining BCRs with eosinophil count significantly led to an improvement in the conventional model for predicting microfilaridermia.
Edward Rosenbaum, Judith Lasker, Shailendra Prasad
et al.
Participating in Short-Term Experiences in Global Health (STEGHs) has become an increasingly popular way for dental students to learn about the global burden of disease and health inequalities by traveling to a low-income community. However, there is little information available in the dental education literature providing guidelines on best practices for STEGHs. Often little is known about the local dental practice laws and ethics guidelines. One useful resource is the Brocher Declaration. The Brocher Declaration, created by the Advocacy for Global Health Partnerships (AGHP), is a comprehensive document outlining best practices for developing ethical and sustainable global health partnerships. The six guiding principles are: (1) mutual partnership with bidirectional input and learning, (2) empowered host country and community-defined needs and activities, (3) sustainable programs and capacity building, (4) compliance with applicable laws, ethical standards, and code of conduct, (5) humility, cultural sensitivity, and respect for all involved, and (6) accountability for actions. The principles of the Brocher declaration can serve as a foundation for ethics and sustainability and can be easily applied to STEGHs in dental education. The authors present a set of recommendations specific to each principle to guide dental schools in offering STEGHs to their students. Participating in STEGHs represents a unique opportunity for students to learn about the global burden of oral disease, its risk factors, and the population and public health strategies to reduce oral disease in diverse populations. When done ethically, they may serve as a spark for students to become future leaders in global health.
Mehrnaz Karimi Afshar, Marzieh Karimi Afshar, Elham Abbaszadeh
et al.
Objective: To study the frequency of self-medication and knowledge about out-of-counter drugs during the COVID-19 pandemic in a group of Iranian dental students. Material and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among dental undergraduates from September 2021 to November 2021 after receiving ethical clearance from the Kerman Medical University Ethical Committee. A valid and reliable questionnaire, consisting of demographic data and questions about self-medication and knowledge about out-of-counter drugs, was sent to participants via E-mail. Data was analyzed by SPSS 26 software by using a t-test. The P-value was considered at a 0.05% significant level. Results: A total of 88 students participated in the study with a mean age of 21.39±3.71 years. Prevalence of self-medication was found in 53.4%. The most common cause for self-medication was headache. Acetaminophen was the most commonly used medicine for self-medication. Females had more self-medication than males, but there was no significant differences. There was no significant differences between entering year to university and self-medication. Younger students had significantly more self-medication (p=0.007). Knowledge about out-of-counter drugs was moderate. Conclusion: Moderate self-medication as noticed. The out-of-counter drugs were the most used. Although out-of-counter drugs seem relatively safe, their improper use can cause serious side effects. Dental students need to be educated regarding appropriate safe medication and out-of-counter drugs.
PurposeThis study aimed to assess the effectiveness of ultrasonic denture hygiene interventions in improving denture cleanliness among elderly individuals.Materials and MethodsSixty-six participants who had received upper metal framework removable partial dentures within the past 5 years were randomly allocated into three denture hygiene intervention groups: group 1 (mechanical cleaning with a toothbrush and ultrasonic cleaning with cetylpyridinium chloride), group 2 (mechanical cleaning with a toothbrush and ultrasonic cleaning with distilled water), and control (mechanical cleaning with a toothbrush only). Denture cleanliness was assessed at baseline and 1-month using: i) Denture Cleanliness Index (DCI) scores; ii) plaque coverage percentage; and (iii) microbiological samples for bacterial and yeast detection. Differences between groups were assessed with one-way analysis of variance and Chi-squared tests.ResultsMean DCI scores and mean percentages of plaque coverage area were significantly reduced in group 1 and group 2, compared to the control group for both cobalt chromium (CoCr) and acrylic fitting surfaces (p<0.001). No significant differences were found between groups 1 and 2 with regard to the prevalence and viable counts of yeasts or total microbial viable counts. No significant differences in the investigated clinical and microbiological parameters were observed between CoCr and acrylic surfaces following the intervention period.ConclusionThe ultrasonic cleaner was significantly more effective than mechanical cleaning in the reduction of biofilm coverage on metal framework removable partial dentures over a 1-month intervention period. Nevertheless, the adjunctive use of cetylpyridinium chloride with ultrasonic cleaning did not yield additional benefits.
Sara Jafarimofrad, Hamid Sarlak, Shima Nourmohammadi
Background: Control of pain, fear, and anxiety of pediatric dental patients is a common concern for the parents and dental clinicians. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of audiovisual distraction (AVD) and mute-video distraction (MVD) for reduction of pain and anxiety of pediatric dental patients.
Materials and Methods: This randomized split-mouth crossover clinical trial evaluated 60 systemically healthy children between 4 and 7 years requiring bilateral pulpotomy of primary maxillary first molars. The samples were randomly divided into 6 groups based on the distraction technique and sequence of its receipt: (I) control-AVD, (II) AVD-control, (III) control-MVD, (IV) MVD-control, (V) AVD-MVD, and (VI) MVD-AVD and were treated. The severity of pain and anxiety of patients during anesthetic injection was measured using physiological (pulse rate [PR]), sound, eyes, and motor (SEM) and faces pain rating (FPR) scales. Data were compared between Groups 1 and 2, 3 and 4, and 5 and 6 using crossover clinical trial analysis (P = 0.05).
Results: The increase in PR and the mean FPR and SEM scales during anesthetic injection was significantly smaller in AVD than MVD (P < 0.05). No significant difference was noted between MVD and control technique regarding PR and mean FPR or SEM (P = 1.00).
Conclusion: It appears that MVD has no significant efficacy for reduction of pain and anxiety of pediatric dental patients. AVD, however, can effectively decrease the pain and anxiety of pediatric dental patients during anesthetic injection.
Objective: Missing maxillary lateral incisors is a common developmental anomaly and often creates a major esthetic problem due to their position in the dental arch. Treatment in such cases depends on either creation of space followed by prosthetic replacement or closing the space and replacing the missing lateral incisors by canines. In this report we highlight some of the key factors which should be considered for replacement of missing lateral incisors using single tooth implant. Methods: This clinical report describes the treatment of a patient with bilateral missing maxillary lateral incisors. An interdisciplinary approach involving Orthodontist, implant surgeon and prosthodontist was used in the treatment. Results: At the end treatment, the patient presented with class I molar and canine, normal overbite and overjet, and good facial esthetics with canine protected occlusion. Conclusion: When indicated, space opening and replacement of missing lateral incisors with implant supported tooth substitution may provide excellent esthetics and functional results.
Kei Namba, Shuta Tomida, Takehiro Matsubara
et al.
Abstract Background In lung cancer, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitor sensitizing mutations co-existing with rare minor EGFR mutations are known as compound mutations. These minor EGFR mutations can lead to acquired resistance after EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor treatment, so determining the mutation status of patients is important. However, using amplicon-based targeted deep sequencing based on next-generation sequencing to characterize mutations is prone to sequencing error. We therefore assessed the benefit of incorporating molecular barcoding with high-throughput sequencing to investigate genomic heterogeneity in treatment-naïve patients who have undergone resection of their non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) EGFR mutations. Methods We performed amplicon-based targeted sequencing with the molecular barcoding system (MBS) to detect major common EGFR mutations and uncommon minor mutations at a 0.5% allele frequency in fresh–frozen lung cancer samples. Results Profiles of the common mutations of EGFR identified by MBS corresponded with the results of clinical testing in 63 (98.4%) out of 64 cases. Uncommon mutations of EGFR were detected in seven cases (10.9%). Among the three types of major EGFR mutations, patients with the G719X mutation had a significantly higher incidence of compound mutations than those with the L858R mutation or exon 19 deletion (p = 0.0052). This was validated in an independent cohort from the Cancer Genome Atlas dataset (p = 0.018). Conclusions Our findings demonstrate the feasibility of using the MBS to establish an accurate NSCLC patient genotype. This work will help understand the molecular basis of EGFR compound mutations in NSCLC, and could aid the development of new treatment modalities.
Neoplasms. Tumors. Oncology. Including cancer and carcinogens
Understanding microbiology, specifically biofilm biology is an essential component of creating targeted therapeutic modalities that are effective and efficient.[...]
Daniel Carreño-Henríquez, Javier Silvestre-Rangil, Alonso Carrasco-Labra
et al.
Introduction: Cerebral palsy is a syndrome that involves a large number of childhood movement and posture disorders, resulting in activity limitation. It is attributed to non-progressive alterations in the fetal or infant brain. This disorder can also be accompanied by oral alterations, some of which can be prevented if the caretaker knows how to manage them. An adequate knowledge of oral health on the part of the caregivers has a positive impact on the oral status of their patients. Objective: To design and validate a questionnaire to assess the oral health knowledge of caregivers of children with cerebral palsy. Methods: A literature search was conducted to identify published questionnaires on oral health knowledge related to people with disabilities. In the absence of questionnaires in Spanish, the search was focused on other surveys aimed at parents of healthy children. Validation of appearance and content was carried out by a panel of experts and a group representing the target population. Subsequently, two pilot studies were carried out to determine the questions that would make up the final instrument, analyze the need to modify its wording and establish alternative answers. Results: The designed questionnaire was approved by the panel of experts and by the representatives of the population at whom the instrument is aimed. After two pilot studies, a Cronbach's alpha of 0.83 was obtained. Conclusion: The designed and validated questionnaire has good internal consistency. It is necessary to evaluate its reliability so that it can be used clinically and in research studies.
Helena Podrouzkova, Vera Feitova, Roman Panovsky
et al.
Background: Advances in nanotechnology have lead to the development of a novel contrast media for Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) - the superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticle (SPIO). SPIO nanoparticles are used to image inflammation on the cellular level in various settings.
This review covers the physicochemical characteristics of SPIO particles as well as relevant animal and clinical studies and discusses the potential of SPIO particles to image cardiac inflammation including cardiac graft rejection.
Methods: We searched the scientific biomedical databases Medline/PubMed, BioMedCentral, Google Scholar, Ovid and, ProQuest from to 2000 to 2013 for publications relevant to the topic.
Conclusions: SPIO nanoparticles due to their unique properties could become a useful tool in imaging cardiac inflammation. However, the task is to find a suitable particle size and coating with corresponding pharmacokinetics, establish the right dose and MRI scan timing for individual applications.
Omid Savabi, Farahnaz Nejatidanesh, Mohamad Hossein Fathi
et al.
Background: The interim restorative materials should have certain mechanical properties to withstand in oral cavity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the hardness and wear resistance of interim restorative materials.
Materials and Methods: Fifteen identical rectangular shape specimens with dimensions of 2 mm × 10 mm × 30 mm were made from 7 interim materials (TempSpan, Protemp 3 Garant, Revotek, Unifast LC, Tempron, Duralay, and Acropars). The Vickers hardness and abrasive wear of specimens were tested in dry conditions and after 1 week storage in artificial saliva. The depth of wear was measured using surface roughness inspection device. Data were subjected to Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests. The Pearson correlation coefficient was used to determine the relationship between hardness and wear (α =0.05).
Results: TempSpan had the highest hardness. The wear resistance of TempSpan (in dry condition) and Revotek (after conditioning in artificial saliva) was significantly higher (P < 0.05). There was no statistically significant correlation between degree of wear and hardness of the materials (P = 0.281, r = -0.31).
Conclusion: Hardness and wear resistance of interim resins are material related rather than category specified.
Sudip Indu, Venkatapathy Ramesh, Nirima Oza
et al.
Gene therapy "the use of genes as medicine" involves the transfer of a therapeutic or working copy of a gene into specific cells of an individual in order to repair a faulty gene copy. The technique may be used to replace a faulty gene, or to introduce a new gene whose function is to cure or to favorably modify the clinical course of a condition. The objective of gene therapy is to introduce new genetic material into target cells while causing no damage to the surrounding healthy cells and tissues, hence the treatment related morbidity is decreased. The delivery system includes a vector that delivers a therapeutic gene into the patient′s target cell. Functional proteins are created from the therapeutic gene causing the cell to return to a normal stage. The vectors used in gene therapy can be viral and non-viral. Gene therapy, an emerging field of biomedicine, is still at infancy and much research remains to be done before this approach to the treatment of condition will realize its full potential.