Stereomicroscope Research Articles

Investigating the Microarchaeological Record at Underwater Sites: Operating an On-Site Laboratory During the Antikythera Shipwreck Excavation

AbstractUnderwater excavations require an immense amount of logistics and have inherent time limitations. Underwater challenges such as nitrogen toxicity, underwater color change, and dive time limits increase with working depths, affecting the interpretation of archaeological contexts. Thus, underwater excavations involve methods and approaches to extract the maximum information from small areas while providing a comprehensive understanding of the archaeological record. Here, we present the benefits of using an on-site laboratory comprising a microscope, binocular microscope, Fourier transform infrared spectrometer and blue light inspection device. Three case studies are presented, focusing on the identification of stratigraphic boundaries, as well as the preservation and identification of archaeological materials. The results show a complex stratigraphic sequence containing seven layers divided into four mineralogical units: (1) Calcite, (2) Calcite and aragonite, (3) Aragonite, and (4) Dolomite. Additionally, the use of an on-site laboratory is effective in preventing the misidentification of archaeological materials, which could affect the final interpretation of the archaeological site (e.g., glass, lead, bone), and enabling the identification of materials invisible to the naked eye, such as opaline phytoliths. In the case of the Antikythera shipwreck, the on-site laboratory facilitated the examination of stratigraphy and quality of the archaeological context while streamlining excavation practices and documentation. Furthermore, the on-site laboratory allowed for the assessment of material preservation and provide crucial insights to inform post-excavation treatments and analysis of artifacts.

The Study of Calcium Chloride Effect on Silver Nanoparticles Capping with Roselle Extract Granule against Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans

Abstract Objectives The primary aim of this research is to investigate the influence of calcium chloride on the synthesis of silver nanoparticles coated with roselle extract and enclosed within alginate and calcium chloride (SNP-Ro-CaCl2) beads, designated as SNP-Ro-CaCl2 beads. Additionally, the study aims to assess their antimicrobial activity. Materials and Methods For the preparation of SNP-Ro-CaCl2 beads, SNPs and alginate gel were mixed, followed by dropping in three different concentrations of CaCl2 solution (1%, 3%, and 5% w/v). The morphological structure of the SNP-Ro-CaCl2 beads was analyzed using a stereoscope and scanning electron microscope (SEM). Over a period of 14 days, the release of SNPs was monitored using ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy. Additionally, the activity against Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans was evaluated using the disk diffusion technique. Statistical Analysis The data for this experiment were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Scheffe's method. Results The results revealed that varying concentrations of calcium chloride had distinct crosslinking effects on alginate, resulting in different voids and porosity within the SNP-Ro-CaCl2 beads. In the SNP-Ro-1% CaCl2 beads, the inner element exhibited higher porosity, facilitating faster activation and greater efficiency in releasing SNPs. Regarding activity against A. actinomycetemcomitans after 14 days, SNP-Ro-1% CaCl2 beads showed a larger inhibition zone diameter compared to other concentrations, while no statistically significant difference in the inhibition zone diameter was observed between SNP-Ro-3% CaCl2 and SNP-Ro-5% CaCl2 beads. Additionally, it was observed that the antimicrobial effectiveness diminished after 17 days through testing of the lifetimes of the three concentrations. Conclusions This study developed a method for depositing SNP-Ro into alginate gel and crosslinking it with CaCl2 to produce small beads for the sustained release of SNP-Ro in periodontal lesions. Consequently, the SNP-Ro-CaCl2 beads have the potential to be developed as adjunctive locally delivered antimicrobial agents in periodontal therapy.

Effect of different chelators on the push-out bond strength of hydraulic cements in retrograde obturation.

This study examined the effect of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and etidronic acid (HEDP) in retrograde cavities on the bond strength of MTA Angelus and NeoPutty. Sixty-six teeth with single roots and canals were decoronated and enlarged up to F3 using the ProTaper Universal file system. After removing the apical 3 mm within the scope of endodontic surgery procedures, retrograde cavities were prepared with ultrasonic tips. The teeth were divided into three main groups according to the irrigation solution used: saline, 17% EDTA, and 9% HEDP. Following the irrigation of retrograde cavities, each main group was further divided into two subgroups in terms of using MTA Angelus and NeoPutty as retrograde filling materials. Bond strength values of hydraulic cements were measured by the push-out test. Fracture modes were examined under a stereo microscope. Two dentin sections from each group were examined under scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to observe dentinal tubules. Two-way ANOVA and post hoc Tukey tests were used to analyze the data. Irrigation solutions similarly affected the bond strength values of hydraulic cements (P=0.115). MTA Angelus showed significantly higher values than NeoPutty in all the solution groups (P=0.34). Adhesive and cohesive fracture modes were mostly observed in the MTA Angelus and NeoPutty groups, respectively. EDTA, HEDP, and saline had a similar effect on the bond strength of hydraulic cements. The higher bond values of MTA Angelus compared to NeoPutty could support its safe use in endodontic surgery procedures.

The abundance and analytical characterization of microplastics in the surface water of Haryana, India.

Microplastic (MP) contamination has become a serious environmental concern that affects terrestrial environments, aquatic ecosystems, and human health. The current study assesses the presence, abundance, and morphology of MPs present in the surface water of Rohtak district, Haryana, India, which is rapidly undergoing industrialization. While the morphological studies of MPs were conducted through stereo microscopy and field emission-scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), the elemental composition of polymers was analyzed through attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR). The results revealed that the surface water was significantly contaminated by polyethylene, polypropylene, and polystyrene. Moreover, the abundance of MPs was found to be 16-28 particles/L with an average value of 23 particles/L. Most of the MPs had fibrous morphology with the specifics being, fibers (43.9%), fragments (23.7%), films (17%), and pellets (15.4%). The MPs exhibited a size range of 0.61-4.87 mm, with an average size measured at 2.03 ± 0.04 mm. Also, the MP pollution load index values for the surface water bodies were found to be below 10, indicating a low risk category. Though currently designated as "low risk," it is important that mitigation strategies be brought over at this juncture to further prevent the deterioration of quality of water. Thus, this study not only intends to bring forth the impact of human activities, industrial waste, open waste dumping, and inadequate municipal waste management practices on increasing MP concentration but also highlights the sustainable alternatives and strategies to address this emerging pollutant in urban water systems. For further prevention, the implementation of stringent regulations and on-site plastic waste segregation is a critical component in preventing the disposal of plastic waste in surface water bodies. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: The abundance of MPs was found to be 16-28 particles/L, with an average value of 23 particles/L. The surface water bodies in Rohtak district fall into the hazard categories of low risk with values less than 10. The overall MP concentration in water, across all five areas, based on color was in order: white/transparent (39.1%), black (15%), gray (9.1%), green (8.7%), blue (7.8%), red (7.8%), orange (6.3%), and yellow (6.1%). The dominant polymers were polyethylene (PE) (42%) and polypropylene (41%) as determined by FTIR spectroscopy.

Silver Nanoparticles Exposure Impairs Cardiac Development by Suppressing the Focal Adhesion Pathway in Zebrafish.

The potential toxic effects of wastewater discharges containing silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and their release into aquatic ecosystems on aquatic organisms are becoming a major concern for environmental and human health. However, the potential risks of AgNPs to aquatic organisms, especially for cardiac development by Focal adhesion pathway, are still poorly understood. The cardiac development of various concentrations of AgNPs in zebrafish were examined using stereoscopic microscope. The expression levels of cardiac development-related genes were analyzed by qRT-PCR and Whole-mount in situ hybridization (WISH). In addition, Illumina high-throughput global transcriptome analysis was performed to explore the potential signaling pathway involved in the treatment of zebrafish embryos by AgNPs after 72 h. We systematically investigated the cardiac developing toxicity of AgNPs on the embryos of zebrafish. The results demonstrated that 2 or 4 mg/L AgNPs exposure induces cardiac developmental malformations, such as the appearance of pericardial edema phenotype. In addition, after 72 h of exposure, the mRNA levels of cardiac development-related genes, such as myh7, myh6, tpm1, nppa, tbx5, tbx20, myl7 and cmlc1, were significantly lower in AgNPs-treated zebrafish embryos than in control zebrafish embryos. Moreover, RNA sequencing, KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes) and Genomes and GSEA (gene set enrichment analysis) of the DEGs (differentially expressed genes) between the AgNPs-exposed and control groups indicated that the downregulated DEGs were mainly enriched in focal adhesion pathways. Further investigations demonstrated that the mRNA levels of focal adhesion pathway-related genes, such as igf1ra, shc3, grb2b, ptk2aa, akt1, itga4, parvaa, akt3b and vcla, were significantly decreased after AgNPs treatment in zebrafish. Thus, our findings illustrated that AgNPs could impair cardiac development by regulating the focal adhesion pathway in zebrafish.

Zebrafish as a rapid model system for early cardiotoxicity assessment of drugs

ObjectiveThere are some problems in the evaluation of drug cardiotoxicity in zebrafish, such as unsystematic indicators and weak sensitivity. This study aims to explore the advantages and disadvantages of various evaluation methods in rapid cardiotoxicity assessment, and to identify and establish representative and highly sensitive evaluation indicators. MethodsFour typical cardiotoxic drugs (Doxorubicin, 5-Fluorouracil, Ibuprofen and Lidocaine) with different concentrations were selected to act on zebrafish embryos. The death, cardiac malformation, heart rate, blood flow and sinus venosus-bulbus arteriosus (SV-BA) distance of zebrafish in each group were observed and recorded by stereo microscopy. The behavioral changes of zebrafish after drug treatment were counted and analyzed using a zebrafish behavior recorder. Adult zebrafish were used to screen the cardiotoxic expressed genes, and the spatiotemporal expression stability and concentration-dose dependence of the specifically highly expressed genes were studied. ResultsAll the 4 drugs can reduce the heart rate and blood flow velocity of zebrafish embryos to varying degrees, increase the SV-BA distance of zebrafish embryos, reduce the activity behavior of zebrafish embryos, and have different degrees of inhibitory effects on the cardiac function of zebrafish. Among the selected 12 genes expressed only in the heart, one and only CMLC1 showed high specific expression in the heart of zebrafish. However, doxorubicin did not affect the expression of CMLC1 gene in a concentration-dose dependent manner, and the other three drugs could significantly induce the up-regulation of CMLC1 gene expression. ConclusionEthology is a faster and more sensitive method than the traditional cardiotoxicity evaluation indicators (heart rate, blood flow velocity, and SV-BA distance). Zebrafish have a small number of highly heart-specific expressed genes and are not suitable for assessing cardiotoxicity based solely on heart-specific expression of circulating mRNA.

Effect Of Adhesive Application Protocols On Bond Strength Of Ceramic Veneer Thickness

Aim: The aim of this study is to evaluate Shear Bond Strength of lithium disilicate ceramic veneers usingthree adhesive application protocols (pre-curing, co-curing and no adhesive application) using two resin cements (light cure total etch and dual cure self-etch). Material and Methods: By using CAD/CAM milling machine, 42 ceramic disc samples of dimensions 4X 4 mm in diameter and 0.5mm in thickness from Lithium disilicate ceramic material (Up-cad blocks). Buccal surface of 42 premolar teeth were flattened and etched then divided into 3 groups first group(P) received bonding agent then curing, second group (C) received bonding agent with no curing, third group(N)did not receive any bonding agent. Then each group is further subdivided into two subgroups according type of cement: light-cured luting cement total etch and a dual-cured self-adhesive resin cement.. All specimen underwent thermocycling aging and then shear bond strength test was carried out. A stereo microscope wasused to measure mode of failure of each specimen. Results: Regardless of type of cement co-curing application protocol had highest bond strength, followed by Noadhesive application protocol, while pre-curing application protocol had the lowest bond strength. Regardless of adhesive application protocol Self-etch dual-cured cement had a higher bond strength than the total-etch light-cured cement. While for mode of failure statistical analysis, there was no significant difference in adhesive application protocol and cement types. Conclusions: To Increase adhesive protocol the Co-curing is better than other methods. With regards toCement types, self-etch dual cure cement gave a more reliable bond than the total etch light cure cement

Efficacy of Otoendoscopy for Residual Cholesteatoma Detection During Microscopic Chronic Ear Surgery.

The aim of this article is to determine the efficacy of otoendoscopy during microscopic cholesteatoma surgery on residual cholesteatoma rates postoperatively. The medical records of patients (aged 4-90) with primary acquired cholesteatoma who underwent microscopic cholesteatoma surgery (exclusively transcanal approach or canal wall-up tympano-mastoidectomy) with subsequent otoendoscopic examination (80 ears) for intraoperative cholesteatoma residues were retrospectively reviewed. All cases with mixed microscopic/endoscopic, fully endoscopic, or fully microscopic dissection were excluded, as well as cases where a canal wall-down technique was used. After microscopic cholesteatoma removal, the otoendoscope was used to inspect the middle ear recesses for intraoperative cholesteatoma residues. The intra- and postoperative cholesteatoma residue rate were evaluated. On endoscopic examination, intraoperative cholesteatoma residues were encountered in 24 patients (30%). A total of 30 foci were detected. Most of them were found in the superior retrotympanum (15 foci). In 9 cases an antral remnant guided the surgeon to convert to a canal wall up tympanomastoidectomy. During the postoperative follow-up period, residual cholesteatoma was detected on postoperative magnetic resonance imaging in 6 patients (7.5%). Adding an otoendoscopic examination to microscopic cholesteatoma surgery reduced the postoperative cholesteatoma residues rate (odds ratio=0.16). A negative otoendoscopic examination led to a cholesteatoma residue-free follow-up period in 95% of cases(NPV=0.95). Otoendoscopy is effective in identifying intraoperative cholesteatoma residues after microscopic cholesteatoma surgery. It reduces the postoperative cholesteatoma residue rate, and a negative otoendoscopic examination increases the likelihood of a cholesteatoma residue-free follow-up.

Establishing a Mouse Model of Surgical Vocal Fold Injury.

Animal models of vocal fold (VF) surgical injury and scar formation provide insight into the wound healing process. The purpose of this study was to establish an alternative model of surgical injury to the mouse VF using materials commonly available in most research laboratories or for purchase and to investigate wound healing of the epithelium (EP) and lamina propria (LP). Mice were anesthetized by isoflurane gas delivery and positioned on a platform so that the larynx could be observed using a laryngoscope and dissection microscope. Unilateral VF injury was created using a wire brush. Mice were euthanized and the larynx evaluated 1-, 3-, 5-, 7-, 14-, and 28-days following injury. Histological and immunofluorescent analysis was used to evaluate thickness of the EP, LP area, proliferative (Ki67+) and basal cells (p63+) in the EP, and collagen III content in the LP. The depth of injury reached the superficial thyroarytenoid muscle on Day 1. The thickness of the EP of the injured VF was increased on Days 3 and 5, and the LP area was increased on Days 3, 5, and 7 as compared with the uninjured VF. Ki67+ and p63+ cells were increased on Day 3 and collagen III content was increased on Days 5 and 28 as compared with the uninjured VF. We successfully established an alternative method of creating unilateral VF injury in the mouse. This method will be useful for future research regarding VF surgical injury and wound healing. N/A Laryngoscope, 2024.

Floral dimorphism of Elsholtzia angustifolia (Loes.) Kitag. (Lamiaceae)

Gynodioecy is a sexual system in which hermaphrodites coexist with females and is frequently observed in Lamiaceae. The aim of this study was to investigate the floral morphology of Elsholtzia angustifolia (Loes.) Kitag (Lamiaceae) using stereomicroscopy (SM), light microscopy (LM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to identify floral dimorphism in a potential gynodioecious species. Two different floral morphs were found in Elsholtzia angustifolia, hermaphroditic and female individuals, from three natural populations in South Korea (Ihwa Pass, Mt. Joryeong, and Mt. Sokli). However, females rarely occur in natural populations. Statistical analysis revealed significant size differences in the floral organs of the floral morphs. Micromorphological and anatomical characteristics were also examined using LM and SEM to compare the differences between the female and hermaphroditic types, revealing significant differences in the stamens between the two sexual types. Additionally, floral scent analysis was performed to identify floral morph-specific scent components, with elsholtzia ketone and dehydroelsholtzia ketone as the major components.

From microscope to head-mounted display: integrating hand tracking into microsurgical augmented reality.

The operating microscope plays a central role in middle and inner ear procedures that involve working within tightly confined spaces under limited exposure. Augmented reality (AR) may improve surgical guidance by combining preoperative computed tomography (CT) imaging that can provide precise anatomical information, with intraoperative microscope video feed. With current technology, the operator must manually interact with the AR interface using a computer. The latter poses a disruption in the surgical flow and is suboptimal for maintaining the sterility of the operating environment. The purpose of this study was to implement and evaluate free-hand interaction concepts leveraging hand tracking and gesture recognition as an attempt to reduce the disruption during surgery and improve human-computer interaction. An electromagnetically tracked surgical microscope was calibrated using a custom 3D printed calibration board. This allowed the augmentation of the microscope feed with segmented preoperative CT-derived virtual models. Ultraleap's Leap Motion Controller 2 was coupled to the microscope and used to implement hand-tracking capabilities. End-user feedback was gathered from a surgeon during development. Finally, users were asked to complete tasks that involved interacting with the virtual models, aligning them to physical targets, and adjusting the AR visualization. Following observations and user feedback, we upgraded the functionalities of the hand interaction system. User feedback showed the users' preference for the new interaction concepts that provided minimal disruption of the surgical workflow and more intuitive interaction with the virtual content. We integrated hand interaction concepts, typically used with head-mounted displays (HMDs), into a surgical stereo microscope system intended for AR in otologic microsurgery. The concepts presented in this study demonstrated a more favorable approach to human-computer interaction in a surgical context. They hold potential for a more efficient execution of surgical tasks under microscopic AR guidance.

Evaluating the effectiveness of color changing adhesives versus ultraviolet absorbent dye additive adhesives in the removal of adhesive remnants after orthodontic debonding

The fixed orthodontic treatment initiates with bonding and ends up with debonding of brackets which alters the enamel surface. The adhesive remnants present on the enamel surface after debonding are removed with the help of various aids but alters the enamel surface to an extent and there is no alternative material or instrument for removing the adhesives. The aim of the study was to compare the effectiveness of color changing orthodontic bonding adhesives versus ultraviolet absorbent dye additive orthodontic bonding adhesives in the removal of adhesive remnants after orthodontic debonding.: 40 extracted human premolars were procured and metal brackets were bonded to the buccal surface with Group 1 – Enlight, Group 2 – Grengloo, Group 3 - Brace Paste & Group 4 – Enlight + UV dye additive. Debonding of brackets were done in INSTRON and evaluated for ARI score in stereo microscope and photo micrographs were taken to analyze the surface area in ImageJ software with conventional and UV light source. Then the adhesive remnants were removed with tungsten carbide bur at low speed with appropriate illumination and the enamel surface is assessed under scanning electron microscope for EDI score. This study resulted with time taken for the removal of adhesive remnants between the 4 groups and indicates statistically significant difference (p<0.05). Group 3 (Brace Paste) possesses the less time taken for the removal of adhesive remnants between the other three groups and shear bond strength reveals a statistically significant difference (p<0.05) between the three adhesive groups. This current study concluded that the color changing adhesives with the fluorescence property were significantly different when compared with other adhesives due to the reduction in time taken for the removal of adhesive remnants from the enamel surface with minimal damage. Additionally the introduction of a UV dye additive for the visual distinction between the enamel structure and adhesive remnant also proves to be a valuable aid in the assessment of adhesive remnant index and removal.

Ecofaunistic Study and Egg Morphology: Egg Laying Behavior of Hydrometra stagnorum (Linnaeus, 1753) (Gerromorpha: Heteroptera) Newly Recorded From the Karabük Province of Western Black Sea (Türkiye).

This study examines the egg-laying behavior and egg morphology of Hydrometra stagnorum (Linnaeus, 1753) (Gerromorpha: Heteroptera) to provide ecofaunistic information about the species. Newly recorded H. stagnorum samples were collected from the Karabük province of Western Black Sea region of Türkiye. Physicochemical parameters of the water were also recorded. The morphology and egg-laying behavior of H. stagnorum eggs were identified using a stereo, light and electron microscopy. Mature eggs were observed to be blackish dark brown in color. The study reveals distinctive characteristics of the egg structure and micropyle areas, which may contribute to the classification of the species at the subfamily level. Additionally, it was found that H. stagnorum inhabits high-quality waters.

Assessing the composition and abundance of beneficial fauna trapped in Ceratitis capitata (Diptera: Tephritidae) traps in peach orchards in Tunisia

Experiment on trapping non-target arthropods in conventional delta traps baited with Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann, 1824) female attractant was undertaken in multi-variety peaches orchards in the north East of Tunisia during the cultivation season (from May 2022 to September 2022). Hence, 24 Delta traps having white sticky panels were placed in the experimental site and inspected generally at weekly interval. Captured insects were determined to family level visually using a manual magnifying glass when possible, or gently removed and identified in the laboratory under binocular microscope either on family or species levels. Results indicated that traps attracted very low number of non-target arthropods compared to Mediterranean fruit fly adults. Collected species belonged to families: Apidae, Halictidae, Colletidae, Megachilidae, Braconidae, Ichneumonidae, Scelionidae, Pteromalidae, Torymidae, Chalcididae, Eucoilidae, Syrphidae, Pompilidae, Crabronidae, Coccinellidae, Chrysopidae and Formicidae. In total, more than 700 adults of Chrysoperla carnea (Stephens, 1836) were attracted and 53 % of captured individuals are parasitic wasp species belonging particularly to Pteromalidae and Scelionidae families. Compared to the highest level of MedFly capture, the effect of delta traps baited with the female attractants on beneficials can be considered as insignificant (Kruskal-Wallis test ANOVA H = 35.6947, P < 0.00001). Hence, trapping grid can be used to monitor the population of MedFly without hazardous effects on beneficial insect fauna.

The first record of Aspidogaster conchicola (Trematoda: Aspidogastridae) in the freshwater mussel Unio pictorum in Croatia

Although Aspidogaster conchicola is a common and widespread parasite of freshwater molluscs, knowledge about its distribution and hosts in Croatia is still insufficient. The aim of our research was to investigate the presence of A. conchicola in the freshwater mussel Unio pictorum, which is widely distributed in the rivers of Europe. The study was conducted in the Mrežnica River, where U. pictorum is a common species. Five specimens of U. pictorum were collected by scuba diving in October 2021. The dissection of mussels was carried out in the laboratory, and all tissues were inspected under a stereo microscope. Determination of the parasite was performed based on the number and arrangement of alveoli. The results showed that the prevalence of infection was 40% (two out of five mussels were infected), and the intensity of infection was 2 to 3 specimens per mussel. All parasites were detected in the mussels’ pericardial cavity. In conclusion, this is the first record of A. conchicola in U. pictorum in Croatia.

FORENSIC EVALUATION OF SELF-INFLICTED SUICIDES WITH MULTIPLE GUNSHOT WOUNDS

Suicide is a common cause of premature death and a serious social problem. The use of firearms for suicide is quite common. The infliction of multiple self-inflicted wounds, including a fatal one, is rare among suicides, but it is possible and requires careful investigation. Aim To provide a forensic assessment of the possibility of suicide by multiple gunshot wounds. Methods. Archival material from the Kyiv City Clinical Bureau of Forensic Medicine and the Zhytomyr Regional Bureau of Forensic Medicine (2 "medical examination reports") was used. The objects of the study were: gunshot wounds on the head (wounds, wound channels), elastic bullets up to 9 mm cartridges and 9 mm bullets for pistol "Makarov", shot products, pistol "Makarov-MP 79" converted to shoot elastic bullets. Their characteristics were examined visually and under the stereo microscope. The detection of shot soot layers on skin flaps and gunsmith's grease was carried out in infrared and ultraviolet rays. The study of the elemental composition of shot products in objects of biological and non-biological origin was carried out using the X-ray fluorescence spectrometer "M4 TORNADO". Standard methods of variational statistics were used in the study. Results. The forensic examination of the entry and exit wounds and wounds on the head of the corpses of persons who died as a result of self-inflicted gunshot wounds, as well as of the bullets and weapons that caused bodily injuries, confirmed the possibility of committing suicide by firing double shots from pistols to shoot bullets of the so-called "non-lethal type": elastic bullets up to 9 mm cartridges and 9 mm bullets for pistol "Makarov". It was established that in case No 1 the first injury was non-fatal and the second was fatal, accompanied by damage to the skull and brain. In case No. 2, the first wound was fatal and the second was non-fatal, as it damaged only the soft tissues of the head without damaging the bones of the skull and brain. The wounds were caused by automatic shots due to the poor technical condition of the weapon, i.e. partial damage and wear of the trigger mechanism and the pistol sear. This was facilitated by a one-time partial self-destruction of the weapon, followed by the wedging of the next cartridge with an elastic bullet in the lower part of the barrel. Conclusion. Thus, the cases of double head injuries caused by shots from firearms (pistols) for shooting bullets of the so-called "non-lethal type" (elastic bullets up to 9 mm cartridges and 9 mm bullets for pistol "Makarov") serve as evidence of suicide. In case No. 1, one of the wounds was not fatal, as the wound channel began with an entrance hole in the lower half of the right temporal region, continued on the right through the right mastoid process and the soft tissues of the neck, and ended in the middle with an exit wound in the back of the neck. This wound was the first inflicted. The second wound was final and fatal, as there was damage to the skull and brain, as evidenced by the wound channel which passed through the right temporal cyst, the brain and its membranes, the left occipital bone, and ended with the exit wound in the left occipital region. It was the second in order of entry. In case 2, the first wound was fatal, resulting in damage to the bones of the skull and brain and the presence of an elastic ball in the substance of the brain. The second wound was non-fatal and tangential, injuring only the soft tissues of the head without damaging the bones of the skull and brain. It occurred as a result of automatic (independent) shots due to the poor technical condition of the weapon, namely partial damage and wear of the trigger mechanism and the pistol sear. This was facilitated by a one-time partial self-destruction of the weapon, followed by the wedging of the next cartridge with an elastic bullet in the lower part of the barrel.

The Condition of Contemporary Murals in Sun-Exposed Urban Environments: A Model Study Based on Spray-Painted Mock-Ups and Simulated Light Ageing

The present work investigates the physicochemical stability of spray paints when irradiated with artificial solar light (at spectral range 300–800 nm). This research highlights the importance of understanding the materials used in street art and public murals, recognising them as a significant component of contemporary cultural heritage. By examining the stability and degradation of spray paints toward solar light exposure, the study aims to contribute to the preservation of contemporary murals, which reflect current social and cultural narratives. A physicochemical approach was employed for the study of spray paints’ physical and thermal properties, as well as the effect of specific photochemical ageing reactions/processes. The photochemical ageing results were compared with reference (unaged) samples. Specifically, a multi-technique approach was applied using stereo microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), contact angle measurement, colorimetry, glossimetry, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), UV-Vis spectroscopy, attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), and pyrolysis-GC/MS (Py-GC/MS). The photodegradation of the spray paints occurred from the first 144 h of solar light irradiation, resulting in changes in morphology, colour, gloss, roughness, and wettability. Regarding photochemical stability, ageing seems to affect the binders more than the synthetic organic pigments and the inorganic fillers. In particular, acrylic binders showed small chemical changes, whereas the alkyd, nitrocellulose, and styrene binders underwent severe chemical modification. The results suggest that simulated daylight irradiation prompts the migration of additives toward the surface of the spray paint films. In addition, the results of the analyses on the white spray paints in comparison with the coloured paints (from the same manufacturer) showed that there seems to be an active distinct photoageing mechanism involving titanium dioxide, but the whole issue needs further investigation.

Enhancing Fixed Partial Denture Pontic Fabrication: An In Vitro Comparative Study of the Digital and Manual Techniques.

Background Advancements in computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) technology have significantly improved the accuracy and consistency of producing fixed partial dentures (FPDs) compared to traditional manual methods. However, the fully digital transfer of mock-up morphology to final FPDs is not yet fully explored. Proper pontic design, which avoids direct gingival contact, is essential for maintaining oral hygiene and preventing tissue irritation. Aim and objectives This study aims to compare the effectiveness of digital versus manual methods in FPD pontic fabrication, focusing on the trueness of digitally fabricated FPD patterns. Key objectives include assessing thickness, vertical gaps, and anatomical accuracy to determine the advantages of CAD-CAM technologies over traditional techniques. Materials and methods In this in vitro study, a total of 45 FPD pontics were fabricated and divided into three groups (15 each): digitally fabricated (using CAD software and CAM systems), manually fabricated (using traditional wax-up techniques), and a control group (typodont teeth). Tooth preparation was performed on a typodont, and impressions were taken to create casts. One cast was scanned and digitally designed, while the other was used for manual fabrication. Outcome assessments included vertical gap measurement using a stereo microscope, thickness evaluation with a digital caliper, and anatomical similarity assessment by independent evaluators. Statistical analysis involved one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), post hoc Tukey's analysis, and unpaired t-tests using SPSS software version 26.0 (IBM Inc., Armonk, New York). Statistical significance was set at 0.05. Results The digital group exhibited lower mean thickness at the incisal (1.92±0.130 mm vs. 2.46±0.219 mm for manual, p=0.000), middle (7.00±0.223 mm vs. 8.88±0.983 mm for manual, p=0.001), and cervical sites (9.06±0.134 mm vs. 10.08±0.454 mm for manual, p=0.000). No significant differences were found between the digital and control groups. No significant differences were observed between digital, manual, and control groups at any site (p=0.688 to 0.997). The digital group demonstrated superior accuracy and consistency compared to the control group (mean value of 1.00±0.00 vs. 2.93±0.798, p=0.000). Conclusion CAD-CAM technology greatly improves the precision and consistency of FPD pontic fabrication compared to traditional manual techniques. Digital methods produce thinner pontics with superior anatomical accuracy, although vertical gap measurements are similar across methods. These findings emphasize the benefits of CAD-CAM in enhancing prosthetic outcomes and suggest potential improvements in clinical practices for prosthodontic rehabilitation.

Wound healing induced by new synthetic peptide, A7-1, in C57BL/6 mouse model

The effects of the novel synthetic peptide, A7-1, on wound healing and skin grafts were evaluated in a C57BL/6 mouse model. Two 15-mm wide circular skin excisions were made on the backs of mice and to each excision, 100 µM A7-1 or normal saline was applied daily. The treatments were applied and sutured for skin graft analysis. Digital photos were acquired on days 4, 7, 11, and 14 and fluorescein angiography was conducted. Wound sizes were verified using stereoscopic microscopy. Histological analysis was performed via hematoxylin and eosin staining and Masson’s trichrome staining. Western blotting was performed using vascular endothelial growth factor. Using a stereoscopic microscope, significantly faster wound healing (17.3%) and skin graft healing (16.5%) were observed in the A7-1 treatment group in comparison to that of the control. The angiogenesis was significantly faster in fluorescein angiography examination in wound healing (11%) and skin grafts (15%). However, the average completion of epithelization (overall time for wound healing), did not show any significant differences. In comparison to the control, the new protein, A7-1, led to significantly faster wound healing in the initial angiogenesis.

Teknik Pemeriksaan Parasit Myxobolus sp. pada Ikan Hias Air Tawar di Balai Karantina Ikan Pengendalian Mutu dan Keamanan Hasil Perikanan Surabaya I

The increase in ornamental fish farming in Indonesia has increased significantly during the 2017-2019 period. This improvement process is certainly faced with various challenges such as disease, which is caused by ectoparasites, one of which is Myxobolus sp. This parasite can infect the skin and gills of fish, causing significant financial losses. This study aims to determine the prevalence and intensity of Myxobolus sp parasites in freshwater ornamental fish at the Surabaya I Fish Quarantine Center for Quality Control and Safety of Fishery Products (BKIPM), which was conducted on June 19 - August 18, 2023. The tools and materials used include fish samples, distilled water, 70% alcohol, giemsa dye, swallow and tissue, tray, binocular microscope, computer, dissecting set, object glass, cover glass, dropper pipette, ruler, gloves, beaker glass, workbook, method, and stationery. Native and staining methods were used to examine parasites, while prevalence and intensity were calculated using Kabata's (1985) formula. The results showed that comet fish and koi fish were infected with Myxobolus sp in their gills. The intensity of Myxobolus sp infection in koi fish was classified as severe, while in comet fish it was classified as very severe. The prevalence of Myxobolus sp parasites found in koi fish was 2.32% and in comet fish was 4.20%, both categorized as moderate infection.