Dunnett's Test Research Articles

Combining Chemotherapy Agents and Autophagy Modulators for Enhanced Breast Cancer Cell Death

Purpose: Autophagy, governed by genes with dual roles in cell death and survival, plays a crucial role in cancer persistence. Arsenic trioxide (ATO), carboplatin (CP), and cyclophosphamide (CY) are used to treat various cancers. ATO impedes cell proliferation and triggers apoptosis in cancer cells. CP, a platinum-based drug, damages cancer cell DNA, while CY acts as an alkylating agent, disrupting cell proliferation. This study investigates the combined effects of ATO, CP, and CY on inducing apoptosis and modulating autophagy in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cell lines, BT-20 and MDA-MB-231. Methods: The cytotoxic effects of ATO, CP, and CY, alone and in combination, were evaluated using the MTT assay on BT-20 and MDA-MB-231 cells. Apoptosis and cell cycle progression were analyzed by annexin-V FITC/PI staining and flow cytometry. Gene expression of autophagy- and apoptosis-related markers, including Beclin 1, LC3, caspase 3, and BCL2, was quantified using RT-PCR. Data were analyzed using GraphPad Prism 4.0 with one-way ANOVA followed by Dunnett's test. Results: The The combination of ATO, CP, and CY significantly reduced cell viability and enhanced apoptosis, evidenced by increased caspase-3 activity and reduced BCL2 expression. Cell cycle arrest in the G1 phase was observed, alongside elevated autophagy markers Beclin 1 and LC3. Conclusion: The combination of ATO, CP, and CY induces synergistic effects in promoting apoptosis and autophagy in TNBC cell lines. These findings suggest that this combination therapy could be a promising approach to enhancing treatment efficacy in aggressive breast cancers, offering new insights into potential therapeutic strategies.

Effect of the Intaglio Surface Treatment and Thickness of Different Types of Yttria-Stabilized Tetragonal Zirconia Polycrystalline Materials on the Flexural Strength: In-Vitro Study

Background: Surface treatment of the intaglio surface of zirconia is important for bonding. However, it could affect the strength of the materials. The purpose of this study is to compare the effect of laser, etching, and air abrasion surface treatment methods to a control group on the flexural strength of three zirconia materials with two different thicknesses. (1) Methods: A total of 120 disks were divided into three groups according to the type of zirconia and the ceramic thickness. Then, according to the surface treatment method, the groups were divided into four subdivisions. The change in the microstructure of the ceramic material was investigated through Scanning Electron Microscope (EVO LS10, Carl Zeiss SMT Ltd. Oberkochen, Germany). Phase identification was performed using an X-ray diffraction device (XRD; Ultimate IV X-ray Diffractometer, Rigaku Inc., Tokyo, Japan). The flexural strength was assessed with a biaxial flexural strength test in a universal testing machine. Data were analyzed using SPSS Software (SPSS version 26.0.Armonk, NY: IBM Corp). A three-way ANOVA and a post hoc Dunnett T3 test were employed to evaluate the effect of the yttria concentration, thickness, and surface treatment on the flexural strength of zirconia (α = 0.05). (2) Results: At 0.8 mm thickness, air abrasion significantly increased the flexural strength of 3Y-TZP (1130.6 ± 171.3 MPa) and 4Y-TZP (872 ± 108.6 MPa). However, air abrasion significantly decreased the flexural strength of 5Y-TZP materials (373 ± 46.8 MPa). Laser irradiation significantly decreased the flexural strength of 5Y-TZP (347 ± 50.3 MPa), while etching significantly decreased the flexural strength of both 3Y-TZP (530 ± 48.8) and 4Y-TZP (457.1 ± 57.3). When the thickness increased to 1 mm, air abrasion continued to significantly decrease the flexural strength of 5Y-TZP materials. (3) Conclusions: There was a negative effect of surface treatment on the flexural strength at 0.8 mm thickness rather than at 1 mm thickness. Air abrasion enhances the flexural strength of 3Y-TZP and 4Y-TZP materials but significantly reduces the flexural strength of 5Y-TZP materials. Zircos-E etching and Er:YAG surface treatment methods did not significantly reduce the flexural strength of 5Y-TZP materials at 1 mm thickness and can be recommended as an alternative surface treatment for 5Y-TZP materials.

Evaluation of Reliability and Validity of Different Thicknesses of Occlusal Contact Registration Strips Vs Conventionally used Articulating Papers – An Invitro Study

Aim: To compare and evaluate the reliability and validity of different thicknesses of Occlusal Contact Registration Strips (OCRS) under simulated occlusal load.  Settings and Design: In-Vitro Comparative Study  Materials and Methods: Articulated epoxy resin dental models obtained from completely dentulous patients were interposed with occlusal contact registration strip of various thicknesses and subjected to constant axial compressive load using universal testing machine. The photographs of consistent registration marks were subjectively assessed using a computer software.  Statistical Analysis Used: Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and post hoc mean multiple comparison using Dunnett T3 test.  Results: The thinnest occlusal registration strip used in this study registered the highest average number of markings with a borderline statistically significant difference (P=0.06). The highest average area of markings was registered by the thickest strip, which had a near marginal significance (P=0.09), whereas the lowest average area was produced by the thinnest strip which was statistically significant (P=0.03).  Conclusion: There exists a relationship between the thickness of an occlusal contact registration strip, the number and the area of the marks registered. The average number of marks registered was inversely proportional to the thickness of the occlusal indicator. Hence, the thinner the occlusal contact registration strip, the more reliable is the occlusal contact registration. The average area of occlusal contact registration mark varies proportionately to its thickness. Hence, the thickest occlusal contact registration strips were more valid for marking occlusal contacts.

Effect of Implant Analog Design and Additively Manufactured Casts' Printing Layer Thickness on the Linear and Angular Accuracy of Analogs for Direct Digital Workflow: An In Vitro Study.

To evaluate how implant analog design and printing layer thickness affect the linear and angular accuracy of implant analogs in additively manufactured casts, comparing with conventional implant analogs in stone casts. A reference cobalt chromium mandibular model with a single implant was digitized with an industrial optical scanner and scan bodies compatible with a pressure/friction fit (S) or a screw-retained (N) implant analog for direct digital workflow. These scans were used to fabricate casts with 50 μm (S-50 and N-50) and 100 μm (S-100 and N-100) layer thickness (n=10). Ten stone casts were made after single-step closed-tray polyvinylsiloxane impressions of the model (CNV). All casts were digitized with the same metal scan body and scanner used to digitize the master model, and these scans were superimposed over the scan of the master model to measure the linear (x, y, and z-axes) and angular (XY and YZ planes) deviations (Geomagic Control X). The precision of measured deviations was defined with the average deviation values. Generalized linear model analysis was used to compare the deviations within implant analogs for direct digital workflow, while 1-way analysis of variance and Dunnett's test were used to compare these analogs and conventional analogs (α = .05) Results. The analog design affected the linear deviations (y-axis), while the interaction between the analog design and the layer thickness, and the analog design affected the angular deviations (XY plane, P ≤ .030). S analogs had lower linear and angular deviations than N analogs, and S-50 led to lower angular deviations than N-50 (P ≤ .030). CNV led to higher linear accuracy (y-axis) than N-50, N-100, and S-100 and led to lower angular deviations than all test groups (XY plane) (P ≤ .025). The analogs in S-50 casts had positional trueness similar to or higher than those in other test groups and their accuracy was mostly similar to those in CNV casts. Implant analogs for direct digital workflow deviated more towards lingual and gingival, and conventional analogs deviated more towards buccal, occlusal, and distal. All analogs had a tendency to tilt towards lingual and distal.

Influence of echo time on pulmonary ventilation and perfusion derived by phase-resolved functional lung (PREFUL) MRI using multi-echo ultrashort echo time acquisition.

Non-contrast enhanced 1H magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is promising for ventilation/perfusion (V/Q) assessment of the lung but the influence of the echo time (TE) on V/Q parameters is lacking. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of different TEs on pulmonary V/Q parameters derived by phase-resolved functional lung (PREFUL) MRI using a multi-echo ultrashort TE (UTE) acquisition. A 2D multi-echo UTE sequence with radial center out readout and tiny golden angle increment was developed. Forty-eight participants were enrolled in this study: 25 healthy subjects, six patients with asthma, and 17 patients with pulmonary fibrosis. Participants underwent two acquisitions of 2D multi-echo UTE MRI with three TEs per acquisition (TE1-6: 0.07, 0.82, 1.72, 2.47, 3.37, and 4.12 ms). Regional ventilation (RVent), flow-volume loop cross-correlation metric (FVL-CM), and normalized perfusion-weighted signal (QN) maps were calculated. V/Q defect percentages (VDP/QDP) were determined. To assess repeatability, the measurement was repeated in healthy subjects. Median and interquartile range of RVent, FVL-CM, QN, VDP, and QDP were calculated. To assess significant differences between parameters obtained at different TEs, Friedman's test and Dunnett's test were performed. Pearson correlation coefficients between RVent derived at TE1 and the difference in RVent between TE2,3 and TE1 were calculated. For repeatability assessment, coefficient of variation (CoV) and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) were determined. Significant differences were found comparing V/Q parameters obtained at TE3-6 compared to TE1. CoV increased with TE. For ICC, values between 0.35 (QDP at TE1) and 0.83 (VDPRVent at TE2) were obtained for T1,2. Statistically significant differences for ventilation and perfusion parameters derived by PREFUL were found for TE3-6 compared to TE1. All V/Q parameters were well repeatable for TE1-2. With increasing TE and respiratory volume, RVent shows a T2*-dependency leading to biased ventilation assessment compared to TE1.

Effectiveness of art-based health education on anemia and health literacy among pregnant women in Western Nepal: A randomized controlled trial.

As Nepalese pregnant women vary widely in literacy levels and cultural backgrounds and are reluctant to make decisions about their health, general interventions are insufficient to improve maternal anemia. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of "face-to-face health education using educational material created using pictures, photos, and nomograms" in reducing anemia and improving health literacy. A total of 156 Nepalese pregnant women with hemoglobin (Hb) levels below 11.0 g/dl were divided into three groups: the education group received three sessions of face-to-face health education using art-based material unaffected by literacy skills; the distribution group received material used in the education group; and the control group underwent general perinatal checkups. Hb levels and health literacy scores were assessed at baseline early pregnancy (8-12 weeks) and late pregnancy (36-40 weeks). A Nepalese version of the 14-item Health Literacy Scale (HLS-14) was developed to assess health literacy. The post-intervention three-group comparison showed a statistically significant difference (P < 0.042) in mean Hb levels after the intervention. Dunnett's test showed a statistically significant difference (P < 0.044) between the education and control groups but no significant difference between the distribution and control groups (P = 0.972). No significant differences in health literacy (total scores and subscales) were observed among the three groups before the intervention in the Kruskal-Wallis test and after the intervention (although there was a trend towards improvement). Total health literacy scores before and after the intervention were statistically significantly different for the total group and all three groups (P<0.001). Only the education group showed statistically significant differences in functional (P<0.012), communication (P<0.004), and critical (P<0.014) literacy subscale scores. Continuous face-to-face health education using literacy material significantly reduced anemia and improved health literacy among Nepalese pregnant women. UMIN Clinical Trials Registry (UMIN-CTR), URL: https://www.umin.ac.jp/ctr/ (Registration number: UMIN000049603).

Comparative Evaluation of Fracture Strength of Implant Supported Crown Fabricated from CAD/CAM and 3D Printed Resin Matrix Ceramic

Objective: To compare fracture strength of screw-retained implant-supported crown of resin matrix ceramic when fabricated using CAD/CAM and 3D printing Material and method: vericom Mazic® Duro (CAD/CAM Nano Hybrid Ceramic) was used as particle-filled composite CAD/CAM material, saremco Print Crowntec (3D printable resins-based) as 3D printed composite material, and the control group was composed of IPS e.max. ZirCAD ivoclar vivadent (zirconia) was used to fabricate mandibular first molar screw-retained, implant-supported crowns. After the fabrication, the crowns were cemented with the Rely X U200 self-adhesive resin cement (3M ESPE, Germany) on stock abutments tightened to analogs embedded in acrylic resin. Finally, all crowns were subjected to a fracture resistance test. fracture strength was evaluated by using one–way ANOVA with Chi-square used for the association between the modes of fracture. Result: The results showed that there were significant differences between all the groups used, the control group (Group zirconia) was significantly higher, as the mean was equal to 6391 N. Followed by Group vericom (cad/cam) with a mean of 2558 N, then Group seramco (3D printing) with a mean of 817.92 N. Dunnett T3 test showed statistically significant differences in fracture resistance between the three groups. There was no significant difference between the modes of fracture and the methods. Conclusion: Screw-retained implant-supported crowns manufactured by CAD/CAM technique had better fracture resistance value than those of the 3D printed technique. Clinical Relevance: resin matrix ceramic is a possible substitute for zirconia in an implant-supported crown

Expression changes of miRNAs and EMT-related genes in human mesothelial cells induced by long-term exposure to asbestos

Objective: To investigate the effects of long-term exposure to chrysotile and crocidolite on miRNAs and epithelial mesenchymal transformation (EMT) -related gene expression in human pleural mesothelial cells. Methods: In November 2020, fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was used to detect the expressions of EMT-related genes in human pleural mesothelioma cells (NCl-H2052 cells, NCl-H2452 cells) and human normal mesothelial cells (Met-5A cells). MiRNAs with abnormal expression in human pleural mesothelioma cells were screened out from the previous miRNA chip data of research group, and target genes of differentially expressed miRNAs were predicted using miRWalk database (http: //mirwalk.umm.uni-heidelberg.de). RT-qPCR was used to verify the abnormal expression of EMT-related miRNAs in cell lines. Met-5A cells were treated with 5μg/cm(2) chrysotile and crocidolite respectively for 48 h a time, once a week and a total of 10 times. Chrysotile group, crocidolite group and control group were set up. And the control group was added with the same volume of PBS. The expression changes of EMT-related genes and abnormal expression miRNAs in each group were detected by RT-qPCR. The differences among the groups were compared by one-way ANOVA, and the differences between the control group and the experimental group were compared by dunnet-t test. Results: Compared with Met-5A cells, the expression levels of Vimentin and Twist genes were increased, and the expression level of E-cadherin genes was decreased in NCl-H2052 cells and NCl-H2452 cells (P<0.001). Target genes of miRNAs with abnormal expression in miRNA chip were predicted, and the results showed four abnormally expressed miRNAs associated with EMT and verified the expression of these four miRNAs in the cell lines. Compared with Met-5A cells, the expression level of hsa-miR-155-5p was increased in NCl-H2052 cells and NCl-H2452 cells, the expression levels of hsa-miR-34b-5p, hsa-miR-34c-5p and hsa-miR-28-5p were decreased in NCl-H2052 cells and NCl-H2452 cells (P<0.001), which was consistent with the results of chip analysis. After exposure of Met-5A cells, it was found that compared with the control group, the expression levels of Vimentin and Twist genes, hsa-miR-155-5p, hsa-miR-34b-5p and hsa-miR-34c-5p in the crocidolite group were increased, while the expression level of E-cadherin gene was decreased (P<0.05). Compared with the control group, the expression levels of Vimentin, Twist and E-cadherin genes in chrysotile group were increased, while the expression levels of hsa-miR-34b-5p, hsa-miR-34c-5p and hsa-miR-28-5p were decreased (P<0.05) . Conclusion: Long-term exposure to chrysotile and crocidolite could cause Met-5A cells to produce miRNAs and EMT-related gene expression changes similar to mesothelioma cells.

237 Increasing the threonine-to-lysine ratio improves the growth performance of slow-growing pigs when fed with precision feeding techniques

Abstract Individual precision feeding (IPF) is a suitable tool to account for the nutritional requirement variability among pigs. It was previously reported that, within IPF, pigs require greater Thr:Lys than conventional group-phase feeding (GPF) pigs. It remains unknown if these differences in Thr:Lys requirements occur due to different growth rates (Gr). This study evaluated whether the Thr:Lys requirements of pigs fed with IPF systems are affected by Gr. Sixty pigs (30 barrows and 30 gilts) with 38.1 ± 3.8 kg of body weight were distributed in a completely randomized 3 × 5 factorial arrangement. Pigs were classified into fast (FGr), medium (MGr) and slow (SGr) Gr based on their average daily gain (ADG) during 6 wk previous to the trial. After classification, pens with 2 barrows and 2 gilts from the same Gr group were randomly assigned to one of five treatments (12 repetitions per treatment). Treatments consisted of a conventional GPF (GPF100) receiving 100% of the optimal 0.65 Thr:Lys and 4 IPF treatments providing 140% (IPF140), 120% (IPF120), 100% (IPF100) and 80% (IPF80) of the optimal ratio. GPF100 pigs were fed a single diet with 0.97% standardized ileal digestible Lys. IPF diets of the pigs were adjusted every 2 d to meet the Lys requirements of the most demanding pig in the pen. Body weight was recorded twice a week, and individual feed intake (ADFI) daily over 21 d. At d 1 and 21, pigs were scanned with dual X-ray to estimate their body composition. Body weight, body protein and lipid masses were analyzed as repeated measures over time. The Dunnett test was used to compare the IPF treatments to GPF100 and the Tukey test to compare Gr groups. The pig was considered the experimental unit. FGr maintained greater (treatment × Gr, P &amp;lt; 0.05) ADFI and ADG and greater (P &amp;lt; 0.05) lipid deposition over the trial when compared with MGr and SGr. However, increasing Thr:Lys enhanced (P &amp;lt; 0.05) ADG and ADFI of SGr pigs within IPF, resulting in similar (P &amp;gt; 0.05) values between Gr groups in IPF120 and IPF140. Although FGr tended (P = 0.05) to have greater final body protein mass, SGr presented leaner gain (P &amp;lt; 0.05), independently of the Thr:Lys. Threonine supplementation supports metabolic processes like glycine and serine synthesis, impacting gut health, protein synthesis, energy production, and oxidative stress, potentially explaining lower lipid deposition in SGr pigs when the same level of energy in the diet. SGr pigs might need a different AA profile where a higher Thr:Lys ratio likely enhances the metabolic capacity to support fast growth in SGr pigs within IPF. Consequently, increasing the Thr:Lys ratio within IPF led to improved growth performance in SGr pigs.

Impact of cathepsin K-induced proteoglycans degradation on dentin collagen

ObjectivesThis study aimed to investigate the effects of cathepsin K (catK) on proteoglycans (PGs) and the subsequent impacts on dentin collagen degradation. Materials and MethodsDemineralized dentin samples were prepared and divided into the following groups: deionized water (DW), 0.1 U/mL chondroitinase ABC (C-ABC), and 1 μM odanacatib (ODN). Then, they were immersed for 48 h and then incubated in 1 mL of PBS (pH=5.5) at 37 °C for 5 d. Glycosaminoglycan (GAG) were examined to explore the degradation of PGs by catK. To determine the effect of catK-mediated PGs on dentin collagen degradation, hydroxyproline (HYP) assays, assessment of the degree of dentin crosslinking, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were assessed. Statistical analysis was conducted using one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey’s tests or Welch's ANOVA followed by Dunnett's tests at a significance level of 0.05. ResultsThe production of GAG was significantly lower in the ODN group than in the DW group (P < 0.05), revealing that PG degradation was reduced in dentin after ODN treatment. Additionally, ODN treatment minimized the gaps in collagen fibers, improved fiber arrangement, and significantly increased the degree of collagen crosslinking, subsequently reducing the total amount of collagen fiber degradation in the dentin (P < 0.05). ConclusionsCatK-mediated degradation of PGs negatively impacted the stability of collagen fibers, promoted gaps, led to a less organized arrangement of dentin collagen fibers, ultimately increasing collagen degradation.

FDA-approved PDE4 inhibitors alleviate the dominant toxicity of ALS-FTD-associated CHCHD10S59L by reducing the PINK1/Parkin pathway.

Mutations in coiled-coil-helix-coiled-coil-helix domain containing 10 (CHCHD10) have been identified as a genetic cause of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and/or frontotemporal dementia(ALS-FTD). In our previous studies using in vivo Drosophila model expressing CHCHD10S59L, and human cell models expressing CHCHD10S59L, we have identified that the PINK1/Parkin pathway is activated and causes cellular toxicity. Furthermore, we demonstrated that pseudo-substrate inhibitors for PINK1 and mitofusin2 agonists mitigated the cellular toxicity of CHCHD10S59L. Evidences using in vitro, in vivo genetic, and chemical tools indicate that inhibiting PINK1 would be the most promising treatment for CHCHD10S59L-induced diseases. An in vivo human cell culture and in vivo Drosophila models expressing CHCHD10S59L mutant were utilized in this study to evaluate the effect of PDE4 inhibitors in PINK-parkin mediated cytotoxicity through immunohistochemical and seahorse assays. Data were analysed using one-way ANOVA and post-hoc Dunnett's test for statistical significance. We investigated cellular pathways that can modulate the PINK1/Parkin pathway and reduce CHCHD10S59L-induced cytotoxicity. Here, we report that FDA-approved PDE4 inhibitors reduced CHCHD10S59L-induced morphological and functional mitochondrial defects in human cells and an in vivo Drosophila model expressing C2C10HS81L. Multiple PDE4 inhibitors decreased PINK1 accumulation and downstream mitophagy induced by CHCHD10S59L. These findings suggest that PDE4 inhibitors currently available in the market may be repositioned to treat CHCHD10S59L-induced ALS-FTD and possibly other related diseases, and that disease treatment with PDE4 inhibitors should include careful consideration of the PINK1/Parkin pathway, as it is generally recognized as a protective pathway.

Efficiency of dry versus wet Er,Cr:YSGG laser debonding of lithium disilicate veneers using different power outputs

Since water is the chromophore for the erbium, chromium-yttrium scandium gallium garnet (Er,Cr:YSGG) laser, the laser energy reaching the restoration decreases as part of it is absorbed by water. Theoretically, reducing the water or implementing dry debonding could reduce the energy consumed by water, increasing laser efficiency. Studies on whether it is suitable for removing veneers without using coolant are lacking. The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the debonding time, intrapulpal temperature, and translucency of veneers during wet versus dry debonding with an Er,Cr:YSGG laser using different power outputs. Sixty-three maxillary central incisors were flattened labially to receive ceramic specimens. After cementation, ceramic specimens were irradiated with an Er,Cr:YSGG laser for debonding with different power outputs and water percentages (N=70): subgroup A1, 4W and 1% water; A20, 4W and 20% water; A40, 4W and 40% water; B1, 5W and 1% water; B20, 5W and 20% water; B40, 5W and 40% water; C1, 6W and 1% water; C20, 6W and 20% water; C40, 6W and 40% water, and a control group of unbonded ceramic specimens. During debonding, the temperature rise and debonding time were evaluated, followed by the evaluation of the translucency and surface topography of the debonded specimens. Two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the Dunnett test were used to analyze the data (α=.05). The mean intrapulpal temperature rise varied significantly among groups B and C (P<.001), with the highest mean temperature rise found in subgroup B1 (4.00 ±0.00 ºC) and the lowest mean temperature rise in subgroup C20 (1.20 ±0.45 ºC). For the debonding time, the mean values of time required for debonding varied significantly among different groups (P<.001), with the longest time recorded in subgroup A1 (333.4 ±74.8s) and the shortest time recorded in subgroup C20 (17.0 ±6.0s). Only subgroups C1 (18.89 ±0.2) and C40 (18.60 ±0.2) showed a significantly lower translucency than the control group (19.44 ±0.06) (P<.001). Dry Er,Cr:YSGG laser debonding resulted in increased intrapulpal temperature when using high power outputs, but without exceeding the critical threshold of dental pulp temperature. Dry debonding also limited the transmission of laser energy, affecting the debonding efficiency. A power output of 5W and 20% water can be considered efficient and safe laser parameters for debonding lithium disilicate veneers if their reuse is intended.

Performance of plant growth regulators in soybean cultivation under differente aplication methods

The utilization of biostimulants has emerged as a promising approach in agriculture, aiming to augment the physiological processes associated with germination and growth across diverse plant species, thereby leading to substantial and sustainable enhancements in agricultural productivity. Grounded in scientific insights, this study endeavored to juxtapose the efficacy of a biostimulant compound against conventional market-available products. The application methodologies encompassed seed treatment and foliar spraying at the V2 growth stage, with a primary focus on productivity augmentation. The investigation transpired at the Agricultural Technological Center of Paraguay (CETAPAR) in Colônia Iguazu, Paraguay, utilizing a randomized complete block design (RCBD) featuring 16 treatments replicated four times. Dosages were administered in adherence to label recommendations. Productivity data underwent rigorous statistical analyses, including the F-test and Dunnett's test, with a significance level set at 10%. Remarkably, foliar applications at the V2 phenological stage and seed treatments outperformed other modalities, yielding notable outputs of 4,431 kg.ha-1 and 4,419 kg.ha-1, respectively. Noteworthy is the observation that the tested biostimulant formulation exhibited equivalent or superior potential when juxtaposed with commercial counterparts. The findings underscore the viability of integrating biostimulants as a compelling strategy to optimize agricultural productivity, thereby furnishing farmers with an efficacious and sustainable alternative.

Validation of high-resolution continuum source flame atomic absorption spectrometry for determination of selected toxic and potential toxic metals in the decontamination process of wastewater discharged in natural receivers.

A new method based on high-resolution continuum source flame atomic absorption spectrometry (HR-CS-FAAS) was validated for the determination of selected toxic and potentially toxic metals in wastewater resulting from mining activity. The results were compared with inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). The HR-CS-FAAS method was characterized by detection limits in the range (µg L-1) 0.9(Mn)-33.6(Pb), better than ICP-OES for Cu, Fe, Ni, Co, Pb and Mn, and poorer for Cd, Zn and Cr. The Dunnett's and Tukey's statistical test showed that both methods were not affected by significant bias against certified value and between them. The recovery in HR-CS-FAAS method was in the range of 98-103% with relative extended uncertainty of 9-25%, and precision of 1.5-14.1%. The results indicated that the HR-CS-FAAS method is suitable for the determination of toxic and potentially toxic elements directly in filtered water samples without any chemical treatment.

Sensory evaluation and chemical composition of Solanum nigrum and Solanum torvum herbal tea and spice.

Herbal teas are ingested for various purposes and by diverse populations across the globe. There is a growing recognition among individuals of the advantages associated with the use of this beverage, leading to a heightened demand for the manufacture of herbal tea derived from therapeutic plants. Spices on the other hand add flavour to food but could pose harm if it is high in phytates and oxalates. The objective of this study was to develop natural spices and herbal tea with health beneficial properties using Solanum nigrum and Solanum torvum berries. Herbal tea samples from S. nigrum were prepared by sorting berries, maceration, divided into two (fermenting at 18 °C and non-fermenting) and dried at 60 °C for 12 h in a hot oven. Spices from S. torvum and S. nigrum were prepared by removing the berries from the stalk, freeze-drying and smooth milling into fine powder. In addition, antinutrient, phytochemical and sensory evaluation studies were conducted on these spices and herbal teas. A nine-point hedonic scale was utilized for the purpose of conducting a consumer acceptability sensory evaluation test using 101 untrained panelists. Data was then analyzed by t-test, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the level of significance (p < 0.05) was assessed using Tukey's and Dunnett's multiple comparison tests. The panellists expressed a favourable perception towards Solanum nigrum unripe unfermented green herbal tea (6.65 ± 2.08) as compared to the other formulated teas due to the components working together in a way that produces a nice tea sample. Both Solanum nigrum and Solanum torvum spices contained various levels of catechins, saponins, flavonoids, oxalates, phytates and tannins comparable to literature. The herbal tea samples exhibited a range of catechin content, varying from 0.255 to 0.756 mg/g. The antioxidant activity of the various herbal tea samples ranged from 66.37 ± 0.24 to 78.53 ± 0.18 µg/mL GAE as determined by the DPPH free radical assay Fermented black herbal teas recorded higher total phenols (2.80 ± 0.09d), total flavonoids (21.84 ± 1.84c) and showed greater antioxidant activity (78.53 ± 0.18a) as compared to the unfermented green herbal teas. The process of fermentation resulted in a decrease in pH from 7.22 to 6.53 within a period of 12 h. The Total Titratable Acidity (TTA) grew as the fermentation period progressed, whereas the Total Soluble Solids (TSS) decreased. Phytates were the least antinutrients among the two Solanum species accounting for 0.02 mg/100 g and 0.03 mg/100 g in S. torvum berries (STBs) and (S. nigrum berries) SNBs respectively.

Whitening toothpastes with hydrogen peroxide concentrations vs. at-home bleaching.

To evaluate the effect of whitening toothpastes with different hydrogen peroxide (HP) concentrations on HP permeability, color change, and physicochemical properties, compared to at-home bleaching treatment. Forty-nine premolars were randomized into seven groups (n = 7): untreated (control); at-home bleaching with 10% carbamide peroxide gel (AH; 10% CP) with 14 and 28 applications of 180min each (AH [14 × 180min] and AH [28 × 180min]); three whitening toothpastes (3% HP; 4% HP and 5% HP) and 10% CP brushed 28 times for 90s each (TB [28 × 90s]). HP permeability was measured using a UV-VIS spectrophotometer and color change by a digital spectrophotometer (ΔEab, ΔE00, and ΔWID). Initial concentration, pH, and viscosity were measured through titration, digital pH meter, and rheometer, respectively. Statistical analysis included one-way ANOVA, Tukey's test, and Dunnett's test (α = 0.05). 4% HP group showed acidic pH, the lowest viscosity and the highest HP concentration into the pulp chamber (p < 0.05). The 10% CP groups had lower HP in the pulp chamber and greater color change than other groups (p < 0.05), except the 5% HP group in ΔEab and ΔE00. For ΔWID, the 10% CP AH groups showed greater whitening than other groups (p < 0.05). Whitening toothpaste with up to 5% HP resulted in higher HP permeability and less color change compared to 10% CP. Higher HP commercial concentrations in toothpaste increased whitening effect; however, acidic pH toothpastes exhibited greater HP permeability. Whitening toothpastes with high hydrogen peroxide concentrations were less effective than at-home bleaching, resulting in less color change and greater permeability of hydrogen peroxide, potentially increasing the risk of tooth sensitivity.

Effect of a brush tip on in-office bleaching gels in an attachable syringe: Hydrogen peroxide penetration, bleaching efficacy and amount of gel expended

ObjectiveEvaluate the penetration of hydrogen peroxide (HP) into the pulp chamber, bleaching efficacy (BE) and amount of gel expended during in-office bleaching using an applicator brush tip and conventional tip from different commercial brands. Materials and Methods104 human premolars were randomly distributed into thirteen groups (n = 8) according to the commercial brand: DSP White Clinic 35 % Calcium (DW), Nano White 35 % (NW), Total Blanc One-Step 35 % (TS), Whiteness HP Blue 35 % (WB), Potenza Bianco Pro SS 38 % (PB), Opalescence XTra Boost 40 % (OB), no bleaching (negative control), and application method: applicator brush tip and conventional tip for all groups. Initial HP concentration (%) was determined via titration and pH was measured with digital pH meter. Concentration (µg/mL) of HP into the pulp chamber was measured using UV–Vis spectrophotometry, the BE (ΔE*ab, ΔE00 and ΔWID) was evaluated with a digital spectrophotometer, and the amount of gel expended was evaluated using a precision analytical digital balance. Statistical analysis included two-way ANOVA, Tukey's, and Dunnett's test. Comparison between HP into the pulp chamber vs BE was performed with Person's correlation (α = 0.05). ResultsBrush tip demonstrated a low amount of HP in the pulp chamber compared to the conventional method for all bleaching gels (p < 0.0003), as well as lower amount of gel expended (p < 0.002). The brush tip did not result in a significant difference in BE compared to the conventional (p > 0.05). No correlations were found between both factors (p > 0.05). ConclusionBrush tip showed lower penetration of HP in the pulp chamber and a reduced volume of spent gel when compared to the conventional tip, for all commercial brands. Clinical relevanceBrush tip is recommended for bleaching gels in an attachable syringe due to its ability to reduce the penetration of HP into the pulp chamber and minimize the amount of bleaching gel used.

The Effectiveness of Three Different Irrigant Activation Methods in the Elimination of Enterococcus faecalis from Root Canals.

Background and Objective: Eliminating intracanal Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis) is challenging because of its ability to penetrate deep dentinal tubules and its high resistance to many chemicals. This study evaluated the effectiveness of conventional needle irrigation and three different irrigant activation methods in reducing E. faecalis. Methods: The root canals of extracted teeth were shaped, contaminated with E. faecalis, and incubated for three weeks. They were randomly allocated to four experimental groups of 15 teeth each according to the final irrigation method: group 1, conventional needle irrigation; group 2, passive ultrasonic (PU) irrigation; group 3, XP-endo Finisher (XPF); and group 4, laser-activated (LA) irrigation. Bacterial samples were taken and cultured before and after these final irrigation procedures. The colony-forming units were counted, and the bacterial reduction percentages of each group were calculated. The Kruskal-Wallis and Dunnet tests were used for statistical analysis. Results: All irrigant activation methods were significantly more effective than conventional needle irrigation. Although the LA group generated more negative samples than PU, there was no statistically significant difference between the LA and PU groups. LA was significantly more effective than the XPF, whereas PU and XPF were statistically similar. Conclusions: Within the limitations of this study, the final irrigation with LA and PU showed the best reductive effect on E. faecalis colonies. Considering that the LA group had more negative samples, it may be chosen as an alternative to enhance root canal disinfection, especially in difficult cases.

Facet joint loading after 1-, 2- and 3-level cervical disc arthroplasty: a comparison of spiked versus keeled baseplates

BackgroundThe purpose of this study was to examine facet contact forces above, below, and at surgical index levels induced by artificial disc implantation and compare the results from spiked versus keeled baseplates comprising the arthroplasty device. MethodsHuman specimens from C2 to C7 were subjected to flexion, extension, and lateral bending prior to, and following random allocation to spiked or keeled cervical arthroplasty at the index (C5-C6), inferior (C6-C7), and superior (C4-C5) levels. Thin film force sensors were inserted unilaterally into the corresponding facets prior to intact testing. Force data was normalized to the minimum forces recorded during each loading mode under each condition, reported as (Max/Min) force ratio and subjected to a 1-way ANOVA with Dunnett's post-hoc tests for comparison to intact specimens. ResultsUnder flexion, compared to intact, all levels displayed a significant reduction in force ratio following a 1- and 3-level implantation for the spiked baseplate device. An increase in force ratio was observed at the index level for a 2-level implantation but was mitigated with the completion of a superior device insertion. No statistical differences were noted for keeled devices. In extension, the spiked baseplate device reduced the force ratio for 1- and 2-level implantations. A 3-level insertion did not alter facet force ratios. For the keeled device, no statistical changes were noted. Lateral bending associated with spiked devices resulted in statistically reduced or nonsignificant changes in facet loading ratios. The keeled devices did not display significant changes to facet force ratios. ConclusionsImplantation of multilevel disc devices can reduce or sustain unaltered facet loading conditions. In general, 3-level arthroplasty statistically reduced or does not increase facet force ratios compared to intact values. The use of spiked versus keel device baseplates is a clinical selection involving anterior/posterior placement and endplate degeneration conditions.

Acute Cannabis Administration Transiently Reduces Mitochondrial DNA in Young Adults: Findings from a Secondary Analysis of a Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Randomized Clinical Trial.

Background: Cannabis is one of the world's most commonly used substances; however, many questions remain unanswered as to how cannabis impacts the body. Recently, there has been a resurgence of research into the effects of plant-derived cannabinoids on mitochondrial health. In particular, a number of studies implicate mitochondrial-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) interactions with altered memory, metabolism, and catalepsy in mice. Although the research in this field is expanding rapidly, there is little known about the effects of cannabis on mitochondria health in human subjects either in acute or chronic term use. Methods: Blood samples were obtained from a double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group randomized clinical trial in which adults who regularly use cannabis (1-4 days/week) aged 19-25 years were randomized 2:1 to receive either an active (12.5% Δ9-THC) cigarette or placebo (<0.01% Δ9-THC) cigarette containing 750 mg of cannabis before driving simulator testing. DNA was extracted from whole blood using commercial spin columns, followed by measurement of mt-ND1, mt-ND4, and β2M using quantitative polymerase chain reaction. One-way repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Dunnett's multiple comparisons test was used to observe changes in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy number over time. A two-tailed Pearsons R test was used to assess correlations between mtDNA copy number and cannabinoid levels (Δ9-THC and metabolites) in blood. Results: We found that exposure to active cannabis containing Δ9-THC, as opposed to placebo, was associated with an acute reduction in mitochondrial DNA copy number in whole blood at 15 min and 1 h after smoking. The observed decrease in mtDNA copy number negatively correlated with blood concentrations of 11-hydroxy-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (11-OH-THC) and 11-Nor-9-carboxy-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC-COOH), the two primary metabolites of Δ9-THC, but not Δ9-THC itself. Further, the negative correlation between 11-OH THC and THC-COOH concentrations and mtDNA copy number was found in only a subgroup of participants who use cannabis infrequently, suggesting a tolerance effect. Conclusions: These results illuminate mitochondrial alterations attributed to Δ9-THC consumption, which may be mediated by metabolites. These results appear to suggest stronger effects in individuals who consume cannabis less frequently, suggesting some form of tolerance to the effects of Δ9-THC and its metabolites on mtDNA content in whole blood. Keywords: Mitochondria; mtDNA; cannabis; THC; THC metabolites; blood; THC-COOH; 11-OH-THC.