Mm In Diameter Research Articles

Horizontal ridge augmentation using guided bone regeneration with an association of particulate allografts mixed with platelet-rich fibrin, collagen membrane and tent-screws: a prospective study.

BackgroundGuided Bone Regeneration (GBR) is a versatile technique employed not only to correct pre-implant alveolar bone defects but also to facilitate bone defect correction during simultaneous implant placement. The effectiveness of GBR varies significantly among different protocols, as reported in the literature. This study specifically aimed to radiologically evaluate the horizontal bone gain obtained using a GBR procedure combining a particulate allograft, platelet-rich fibrin, resorbable collagen membrane, and screw tents. Materials and methodsA total of 42 patients with an insufficient alveolar bone width for dental implant placement were treated with a GBR technique using a mixture of particulate allograft (demineralised freeze-dried bone allograft 300–500 and 500–1000 µm), advanced platelet-rich fibrin (A-PRF), resorbable collagen membranes and screws tents (1.2 mm in diameter). Over the course of the study, a total of 63 GBR procedures were performed on these patients. Bone gains were measured by cone-beam computed tomography at 9.1 ± 2.0 months post-operative. ResultsA significant mean increase (P < 0.001) of 3.2 ± 0.9 mm at the sites of the greatest bone defect was observed. This improvement was consistent across various locations, including both maxillary and mandibular regions, and in cases of terminal and embedded edentulism, without any post-operative complications during the entire post-operative follow-up. All patients benefited from implant placement following the bone augmentation protocol. ConclusionGBR combining particulate allografts, A-PRF, collagen membranes, and screw tents achieves reliable, predictable, and reproducible clinical gains that allow for future implant placement.

Identification of Indigenous Lactobacillus fermentum by 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing Isolated from Two Different Ecosystems: Newborn Infants and Bee’s Intestine

Background: The consumption of functional ferments that have functional characteristic sand contributes enormously to the safety and quality of food by offering several nutritional, technological and health properties. Lactobacillus fermentum (Lb. fermentum) is a Gram-positive bacterium belonging to the genus Lactobacillus and many are said to have the effect of preventing gastro-intestinal infections and improving immunological response. Additionally, Lb. fermentum produces diverse and potent antimicrobial peptides which can be applied as alternatives to antibiotics. Methods: In this study, samples were isolated from two different ecological niches, the first was feces of newborn infants (0-3 months) and the second from bee’s intestine, from south of Algeria : Ghardaïa 32°29'00" North, 3°41'00" East. Two indigenous lactic acid bacteria were isolated and evaluated for their probiotic properties. The isolate identification by sequencing 16S r DNA was performed using the universal primers 27F and 1492R. The NCBI Gen Bank database was used to have similarity of species. Result: The cultures showed good survival in simulated transit fluids as well as high acid and bile tolerance. The isolates also demonstrated antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, the inhibition zone was measured between 10 mm and 20 mm of diameter respectively. Comparing the sequences of the isolates with the Gen Bank database (NCBI), a high percentage with species of Lactobacillus fermentum was shown.

Return to Sports Activity After Microfracture for Osteochondral Lesion of the Talus in Skeletally Immature Children.

Osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLTs) are among the common sports-related injuries. However, there are few reports on the return to sports after OLT surgery in skeletally immature children. This study was performed to evaluate the return to sports after microfracture for OLTs in skeletally immature children. This study involved 17 ankles of 16 patients (mean age, 13.2 years; range, 10-16 years) with open tibial epiphyses on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) who underwent microfracture for OLTs <10 mm in diameter and confirmation of lesion instability under arthroscopy. Nine of 17 ankles had additional lateral ankle ligament stabilization. All patients were participating in some form of sports. The Japanese Society for Surgery of the Foot (JSSF) score, Ankle Activity Score (AAS), return to sports rate, lesion size, grade of subchondral bone marrow edema, and Magnetic Resonance Observation of Cartilage Repair Tissue (MOCART) score on MRI were evaluated after microfracture. The mean postoperative follow-up period was 53.5 months. The mean JSSF score significantly improved from 76.1 points preoperatively to 94.9 points at the final follow-up (P < .01). The mean AAS showed no change from preoperative state to final follow-up. The return to sports rate was 100%. The lesion size significantly decreased from 76.3 to 56.7 mm2 in area (P = .02) and from 283.2 to 185.6 mm3 in volume (P = .05). The bone marrow edema grade decreased in 8 of 17 ankles. The total MOCART score showed a significant improvement from 6 months to 1 year postoperatively (P = .05). All skeletally immature children who underwent microfracture for OLTs in this study were able to return to sports activity and showed improvements in clinical scores and MRI parameters. Microfracture may be considered an effective first-line treatment for OLTs <10 mm in diameter in skeletally immature athletes. Level IV, retrospective case-control study.

Undrained shear strength of soft clay reinforced with encapsulated stone dust columns

PurposeThe stone dust column was used to strengthen the sample and had a significant effect on improving the shear strength of the kaolin clay. The application of stone columns, which can improve the overall carrying capacity of soft clay as well as lessen the settlement of buildings built on it, is among the most widespread ground improvement techniques throughout the globe. The performance of foundation beds is enhanced by their stiffness values and higher strength, which could withstand more of the load applied. Stone dust is a wonderful source containing micronutrients for soil, particularly those derived from basalt, volcanic rock, granite and other related rocks. The aim of this paper is to evaluate the properties of soft clay reinforced with encapsulated stone dust columns to remediate problematic soil and obtain a more affordable and environmentally friendly way than using other materials.Design/methodology/approachIn this study, the treated kaolin sample's shear strength was measured using the unconfined compression test (UCT). 28 batches of soil samples total, 12 batches of single stone dust columns measuring 10 mm in diameter and 12 batches of single stone dust columns measuring 16 mm in diameter. Four batches of control samples are also included. At heights of 60 mm, 80 mm and 100 mm, respectively, various stone dust column diameters were assessed. The real soil sample has a diameter of 50 mm and a height of 100 mm.FindingsTest results show when kaolin is implanted with a single encased stone dust column that has an area replacement ratio of 10.24% and penetration ratios of 0.6, 0.8 and 1.0, the shear strength increase is 51.75%, 74.5% and 49.20%. The equivalent shear strength increases are 48.50%, 68.50% and 43.50% for soft soil treated with a 12.00% area replacement ratio and 0.6, 0.8 and 1.0 penetration ratios.Originality/valueThis study shows a comparison of how sample types affect shear strength. Also, this article provides argumentation behind the variation of soil strength obtained from different test types and gives recommendations for appropriate test methods for soft soil.

First Report of Leaf Spot on Eriobotrya japonica Caused by Alternaria alternata in Southwest Korea.

Loquat (Eriobotrya japonica) is a crop cultivated in Southwest Korea, covering an area of 101 ha and yielding 120 tons at harvest (KASS, 2024). Due to its high-income potential, the cultivation area is gradually expanding. In May 2023, 30% of leaf brown spots were observed on all three trees in the Suncheonman National Garden, Suncheon (3488'57.97" N, 12750'92.83" E). As the disease progressed, the brown spot gradually enlarged, turning greyish-ivory inside and forming concentric circles. Three leaf lesions from each tree were cut into 5 x 5 mm pieces, surface-sterilized with 70% ethanol for 1 min, and washed in sterile water three times to isolate the pathogen potentially responsible for these symptoms. The samples obtained were subsequently cultured on 1.5% water agar and then incubated in the dark at 25℃. A total of nine isolates were obtained, with three isolates from each of the three trees through single-spore isolation, namely SYP-1202-1 to 3, SYP-1202-4 to 6, and SYP-1202-7 to 9. The colonies reached 90 mm in diameter after 10 days on potato dextrose agar (PDA), initially dark green, and turned sooty gray after 2 weeks. The hyphae grown on a 0.6% KCl medium for 3 days produced long chains containing three to twelve conidia. The conidia were ellipsoidal or obpyriform in shape and light brown. The conidiophores were straight or curved, measuring 12.1-75.3 x 1.6-4.8 μm (n = 100). The primary and secondary conidia measured length × width of 19.1-60.6 × 6.1-14.4 μm and 8.4-27.8 × 3.5-9.5 μm (n = 100), respectively. The conidia had 1 to 7 transverse and 0 to 3 vertical septa. The morphology of the nine isolates was identical and consistent with Alternaria species (van der Waals et al., 2011; Woudenberg et al., 2015). For molecular identification, ITS (OR844500 to OR844508), GAPDH (OR866383 to OR866391), TEF1 (OR866392 to OR866400), RPB2 (OR866401 to OR866409), Alt a1 (OR866410 to OR866418), endoPG (OR866419 to OR866427), and OPA10-2 (OR866428 to OR866436) sequences from SYP-1202-1 to 9 showed a 100% (515 bp/515 bp), 100% (579/579), 100% (240/240), 100% (753/753), 95.1% (449/472), 100% (448/448), and 100% (634/634) identity with that of type strain A. alternata CBS 115152 (KP124348, KP124202, KP125124, KP124816, KP123896, KP124049, and KP124658, respectively). A pathogenicity test was conducted on three 5-year-old E. japonica cultivar Daebang trees in pots. The surface of the five leaves per tree was sterilized with 70% ethanol for 1 min. Before inoculation, the leaves were wounded with sterile needles and sprayed with the conidial suspension (1×106 conidia/ml) produced from a 1-week-old culture grown on PDA. In contrast, control leaves were sprayed with sterile distilled water. The inoculated leaves were wrapped with black plastic bags and kept at 100% relative humidity for two days. At seven days post-inoculation, symptoms were observed on the wounded leaves, whereas the nonwounded and control leaves did not exhibit any symptoms. The experiment was performed three times in the greenhouse. For each experiment, pathogens were reisolated from the two symptomatic leaves per plant. The identity of the reisolated pathogens was then confirmed via analysis of ITS and RPB2 genes, thereby confirming adherence to Koch's postulates. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of E. japonica being infected by A. alternata in Korea. This report provides important information to support effective disease control strategies for E. japonica in orchards in southern Korea.

Plug-Based Embolization Techniques of Aortic Side Branches during Standard and Complex Endovascular Aortic Repair.

Vascular plugs are an evolving family of vessel occluders providing a single-device embolization system for large, high-flow arteries. Nitinol mesh plugs and polytetrafluoroethylene membrane plugs are available in different configurations and sizes to occlude arteries from 3 to 20 mm in diameter. Possible applications during complex endovascular aortic procedures are aortic branch embolization to prevent endoleak or to gain an adequate landing zone, directional branch occlusion, and false lumen embolization in aortic dissection. Plugs are delivered through catheters or introducers, and their technical and clinical results are comparable to those of coil embolization. Plugs are more accurate than coils as repositionable devices, less prone to migration, and have fewer blooming artifacts on postoperative computed tomography imaging. Their main drawback is the need for larger delivery systems. This narrative review describes up-to-date techniques and technology for plug embolization in complex aortic repair.

First Report of Tobacco Leaf Tip Blight Caused by Alternaria gossypina in China.

Tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) belongs to the family Solanaceae, an economically significant crop (Zhou et al. 2023). Twelve samples with leaf spots were collected in Keti Village, Changshun County, Zunyi City, Guizhou province, China in 2022. Twenty-five percent of the samples had dry lesions near the leaf tip which resulted leaf tip blight after development. Fungi were isolated by a previous method (Wei et al. 2022). Six Alternaria strains were obtained and preserved in the Fungal Herbarium of Yangtze University (YZU), Jingzhou, Hubei, China. Among them, one strain YZU 221477 showed distinct cultural characteristics out of five A. alternata strains, which was again determined by growing on potato dextrose agar (PDA) at 25°C for 7 days in dark to evaluate. The colonies (60 mm in diameter) were white cottony in the center surrounded by vinaceous purple. To examine the morphology, mycelia were inoculated onto potato carrot agar (PCA) at 22°C, following an 8 h light/16 h dark photoperiod (Simmons 2007). Conidia were obclavate or ovoid, normally 3-5 conidial units per chain, 20-38 × 10-16.5 μm, 3 to 5 transverse septa, beakless or a short beak (4-30 μm). The observation results were consistent with those of A. gossypina (Zhang 2003). Total genomic DNA was extracted using the CTAB method and seven gene regions including internal transcribed spacer of rDNA (ITS), glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), translation elongation factor 1 alpha (TEF1), RNA polymerase second largest subunit (RPB2), Alternaria major allergen gene (Alt a 1), endopolygalacturonase (EndoPG) and an anonymous gene region (OPA10-2) were amplified with ITS5/ITS4, gpd1/gpd2, EF1-728F/EF1-986R, RPB2-5F/RPB2-7cR, Alt-for/Alt-rev, PG3/PG2b and OPA10-2L/OPA10-2R primers, respectively. All sequences were deposited in GenBank (ITS: OR710806; GAPDH: PP057862; TEF1: PP158601; RPB2: PP057863; Alt a 1: PP057865; EndoPG: PP057861; OPA10-2: PP057864). Combining with relevant sequences retrieved from the NCBI database were used for the phylogenetic analysis. Maximum Likelihood (ML) tree was constructed with RAxML v.7.2.8 employing GTRCAT model using 1000 bootstrap (BS) replicates to assess statistical support. The results indicated that the present strain grouped with A. gossypina (type strain of CBS 104.32) supported with 73% bootstrap values, also having a support of 0.83 Bayesian posterior probabilities values. Based on morphology and molecular evidence, the strain YZU 221477 is identified as Alternaria gossypina. Pathogenicity was examined to fulfill Koch's postulates. Mycelial plugs (6 mm diameter) of the present strain and A. alternata cultivated on PDA were taken from the margin and inoculated onto viable tobacco leaves (Cultivar: Yunyan 87, n=3) growing forty days, while controls were inoculated with sterile PDA. The assay was conducted three times. The plants were maintained at 25°C with humidity levels over 85% in a greenhouse. Leaves were evaluated after 7 days, necrotic spots encircled by yellow halos were on both inoculums, except controls. Pathogen re-isolation confirmed that it was the same as inoculated fungus based on morphology. A. gossypina was firstly found on cotton (Hopkins 1931), late reported to induce disease on Minneola, Nopalea, Hibiscus, Citrus, Solanum and Ageratina. To our knowledge, this is the first report of A. gossypina causing tobacco leaf tip blight in China, and it also provides a basis for controlling of tobacco leaf tip blight.

Retro-pancreatic pull-through reconstruction of the hypoplastic portal vein using the autologous mesosystemic shunt vessel in adult living donor liver transplantation: a case report

BackgroundIn liver transplant patients with hypoplastic portal vein (PV), when the narrowed segment is extended too deep into the dorsal side of the pancreas, it is difficult and dangerous to reconstruct the interposition graft from the upper part of the pancreas. Herein, we present a case of PV reconstruction with the autologous mesosystemic shunt vessel from the caudal side of the pancreas in a situation where the narrowed PV was deep, and we discuss the technical details.Case presentationA 25-year-old woman presented with cholestatic liver cirrhosis due to biliary atresia after Kasai procedure. Since her jaundice progressed, she was referred to our hospital for liver transplantation. Laboratory tests showed that her total bilirubin was elevated to 7.6 mg/dL. The Model for End-Stage Liver Disease score was 18, and the Child–Pugh score was 9 (Grade B). She underwent living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) using a right hemi-liver graft procured from her 54-year-old mother. The conventional approach from the cephalad side to the superior mesenteric vein (SMV) and splenic vein (SpV) confluence behind the pancreas was extremely difficult in this case because the confluence of SMV and SpV was close to the lower edge of the pancreas. Therefore, we decided to perform PV reconstruction from the caudal side. The main trunk of PV was documented as narrow (5 mm in diameter), for which retro-pancreatic pull-through PV reconstruction was successfully performed using her own mesosystemic shunt vessel. A contrast computed tomography (CT) scan was performed on postoperative day 5 because of an elevation of D-dimer and found a partial thrombus in the left pulmonary artery, as well as in the PV and left renal vein. Thereafter, thrombolytic therapy with low-molecular-weight heparin was started immediately and switched to a direct oral anticoagulant. The follow-up CT taken 3 months after liver transplantation revealed a patent PV without thrombus; therefore, anticoagulant therapy was discontinued. Currently, the patient has been well and active with a patent PV without anticoagulant therapy for 3 years after LDLT.ConclusionsRetro-pancreatic pull-through reconstruction of the hypoplastic PV is a feasible and effective method when conventional reconstruction is not indicated.

LONGITUDINAL ANALYSIS OF MICROVASCULAR CHANGES IN SICKLE CELL DISEASE USING SWEPT-SOURCE OPTICAL COHERENCE TOMOGRAPHY ANGIOGRAPHY.

To analyze the changes in macular vascular densities (VDs) and foveal avascular zone (FAZ) over a 6-year period using swept-source optical coherence tomography angiography in patients with sickle cell disease compared with unaffected control subjects. Thirty eyes of patients with sickle cell disease and 12 eyes of unaffected control subjects matched for age and ethnicity were examined at a 6-year interval using the same imaging protocol, including ultra-wide-field angiography, swept-source OCT, and 3 × 3-mm optical coherence tomography angiography. The macular VD and FAZ were measured on ImageJ software according to previously reported algorithms. In sickle cell eyes, the mean FAZ significantly increased ( P < 0.01), and the VD decreased in the foveal (within a circle of 1.5 mm in diameter around the foveal center) and temporal areas in both the superficial and the deep capillary plexuses ( P < 0.01). The VD did not change over time in the parafoveal area (annulus between two circles of 1.5 and 3 mm in diameter) and in the superior, inferior, and nasal sectors. No worsening of peripheral retinopathy was observed in the cohort during the follow-up, except for one eye that developed sea-fan. In the control eyes, no microvascular change was observed over time in FAZ size and VD. These longitudinal optical coherence tomography angiography findings in patients with sickle cell disease showed an enlargement of the FAZ and a decrease in VD in the temporal and perifoveal regions despite the absence of progression of peripheral retinopathy, suggesting a worsening of the macular nonperfusion over time in sickle cell disease.

Antibacterial Activity of the Vancomycin and Cefotaxime-Incorporated Total Etch Adhesive System – An In Vitro Study

ABSTRACT Background: Marginal failure at the resin dentin interface promotes biofilm formation, which further leads to secondary caries and hypersensitivity. This likelihood also increases if residual bacteria are present following cavity preparation. In order to achieve a proper biological seal without jeopardizing bonding, efforts were made to functionalize the adhesive system with antibacterial activity. Aim and objectives: To appraise the antibacterial activity of a total-etch adhesive system against S. mutans with and without incorporation of antibiotics Vancomycin and Cefotaxime. Materials and Method: A commercially available 5th-generation total-etch bonding agent (Te-Econorm) was used. S. mutans broth had been standardized and streaked over Muller-Hinton agar culture medium and round wells about 6 mm in diameter were made in the centre of the agar plates. Each experimental group comprised 10 samples, which include: Group 1 - 30µg Cefotaxime, Group 2- 30µg Cefotaxime + Bonding agent, Group 3- 30µg Vancomycin, Group 4- 30µg Vancomycin + Bonding agent, Group 5- Bonding agent, and Group 6- No material. Inoculated culture plates were examined for the zone of inhibition after incubation at 37° C for 24 hours. Results: There was a significant difference in the mean diameter of zone of inhibition (p=0.000), with the maximum exhibited by Group 4, followed by Group 3 and Group 2. The least zone of inhibition was exhibited by Groups 1 and 5. The negative control showed no zone of inhibition. Conclusion: The combination of Vancomycin and bonding agent had superior antibacterial activity against S. mutans in comparison to cefotaxime and bonding agent.

The effect of hydatid cyst protoscolex somatic antigens on full-thickness skin wound healing in mouse.

Wound healing has evolved in recent years, resulting in diverse therapeutic options. This study evaluated the effects of the somatic antigen of the hydatid cyst protoscolex on wound healing in mice with full-thickness skin wounds. Fifty-four adult mice, weighing 25±5g and approximately 60 days old, were divided into three groups (A, B, and C), each further divided into three subgroups. Subgroups A1, A2, and A3 were assigned negative controls. B1, B2, and B3 received hydatid cyst somatic antigen tests at 10µg/SC, whereas C1, C2, and C3 received somatic antigen tests at 20µg/SC. Under general anesthesia, a wound biopsy puncture of 9.8mm in diameter was performed on the mice's back and spine. In the experimental group, antigen and alum adjuvant were administered subcutaneously around the wound, while the control group received Phosphate-Buffered Saline (PBS). Using digital images, a geometric assessment was conducted on days 0, 1, 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, and 21 post-wounding. The obtained images were analyzed by Image J software and after analyzing the data by SPSS software. A significant difference in terms of epithelization was observed in the antigen treatment group with a dose of 20µg on days 3 and 6 (P<0.05). Furthermore, the 20µg antigen group was significantly higher than the 10µg antigen group in terms of this factor on day 3 (P<0.05). Skin samples were taken from all wounds on days 3, 10 and 21 for microscopic evaluation. Regarding epithelization, on day 10, a significant difference was observed in the treatment group with a concentration of 10µg with the control group and the treatment group with a concentration of 20µg (P<0.05). Based on the results of the present study, it can be concluded that somatic antigens of protoscolex hydatid cyst are dose-dependent and antigens with a dose of 20µg by subcutaneous injection accelerate wound healing and epithelialization.

Effect of an additional GnRH two days after the initiation of a resynchronization program 25 days after artificial insemination on fertility of lactating dairy cows

We investigated the effect of an additional GnRH 2d after initiation of resynchronization on d25 post-AI on the proportion of cows without a corpus luteum (CL) at nonpregnancy diagnosis (NPD) and pregnancy per AI (P/AI) of cows with a CL at NPD that were reinseminated. Once per week, cows that were inseminated 25d earlier were randomly assigned to receive either a GnRH treatment only (G25) or GnRH on this day and 2d later (G25&27). Pregnancy diagnosis and CL presence were determined d32 post-AI using ultrasonography. Nonpregnant cows with a CL were enrolled in different strategies for resynchronization of ovulation according to parity (primiparous or multiparous) and CL size. Primiparous and multiparous cows with a CL ≥ 20 mm in diameter continued Resynch-25 (PGF2α on d32; PGF2α on d33; GnRH on d34; and AI on d35). Multiparous cows with CL < 20 mm restarted a modified Ovsynch at NPD (GnRH – 7d – PGF2α – 1d – PGF2α – 1d – GnRH – 1d – AI). Primiparous cows with CL diameter < 20 mm started an Ovsynch+CIDR protocol on the day of NPD (GnRH + CIDR inserted – 7d – PGF2α + CIDR removed – 1d – PGF2α – 1d – GnRH – 1d – AI). Cows without a CL were not enrolled in any resynchronization program for a week and were excluded from fertility analyses. Only in multiparous cows, the additional d27 GnRH treatment was associated with a decreased P/AI 32d and 102d post-AI for the insemination before treatment. The overall proportion of nonpregnant cows without CL did not differ between treatments. Yet, the GnRH treatment 27d after AI tended to increase the proportion of overall nonpregnant cows with CL < 20 mm at NPD. Treatment did not affect fertility parameters of primiparous cows with a CL ≥ 20 mm that continued Resynch-25 at NPD. Primiparous cows in G25&27 with CL < 20 mm and submitted to Ovsynch+CIDR at NPD tended to have decreased P/AI 102d after AI and calving/AI. When fertility parameters of primiparous cows with a CL independent of size at NPD were analyzed combined, no effect of treatment was observed. Treatment did not affect fertility of multiparous cows with CL < 20 mm enrolled in Ovsynch at NPD. Multiparous cows in the G25&27 group that had a CL ≥ 20 mm and continued Resynch-25 at NPD tended to have a greater calving/AI due to a decreased total pregnancy loss. In summary, no treatment effect was observed on the overall fertility of primiparous cows with CL at NPD. In multiparous cows, G25&27 was associated with a decreased fertility of the previous AI, but it tended to increase calving/AI for multiparous cows with CL at NPD by decreasing the total pregnancy loss for the AI after treatment.

Development and validation of a dried blood spots assay for metabolic profiling of ginsenosides using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry

Ethnopharmacological relevancePanax ginseng C.A. Meyer., a famous and valuable traditional Chinese medicine with thousand years of history for its healthcare and therapeutic effects. It is necessary and meaningful to study the pharmacokinetic behavior of ginsenosides in vivo as they are the most active components. Dried blood spots (DBS) are a mature and advanced blood collection method with meet the needs for the measurement of numerous analytes. Aim of the studyThis study aimed to explore the feasibility on DBS in the metabolic profile analysis of complex herbal products. Materials and methodsAn ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) method was developed and validated for the determination of ginsenosides. The preparation of DBS samples was conducted by spiking the whole blood with analytes to obtain 20 μL of blood spots on Whatman 903 collection card. A punched dish of 10 mm in diameter was extracted with 70 % methanol aqueous solution, digoxin was used as an internal standard. Target compounds were separated on a Waters T3 column (2.1 × 100 mm, 1.8 μm) with acetonitrile and water (0.1 % formic acid) at a flow rate of 0.4 mL/min. ResultsThe various ginsenosides showed good linearity in the range of 1–2000 ng/mL. The extraction recoveries and matrix effects of the target analytes were above 82.2%. The intra- and inter-batch accuracy and precision were within the limits of ≤15% for all tested concentrations. Moreover, the collected dried blood spot samples could be stably stored at room temperature for 14 days and 4 °C for 1 month without being affected. And it is delightful that the DBS-based analysis is compatible or even superior to the conventional protein precipitation in terms of sensitivity, linearity, and stability. In particular, the target analytes are stable in the DBS sampling under normal storing condition and the sensitivity for some trace metabolites of ginsenosides, such as 20(S)-Rg3, 20(R)-Rg3, F1, Rk1, Rg5, etc. increases 3–4 folds as evaluated by LLOQ. ConclusionsThe established method was successfully applied to pharmacokinetic studies of ginseng extract in mice, this suggests a more feasible strategy for pharmacokinetic study of traditional and natural medicines both in animal tests and clinical trials.

In - Vitro Study on Anti Fungal Activity of Various Potencies of Sepia Against Candida Albicans

In this study , we have tested the ability of Sepia to limit the growth of a Candida culture. The current study's objective is to evaluate the effects of this drug on the fungus at various potencies. For almost two decades, homoeopaths have worked to establish the existence of the miraculous potential of little doses. The overall purpose of all of this research is to demonstrate, through in-vitro modifications, how Sepia acts on Candida fungus. The disc diffusion assay was used to evaluate the antifungal activity. Using a micropipette, a known volume of 10 μL of sepia of potency 200 C and 1M was loaded over small, circular, sterile paper discs (6mm in diameter) that had been impregnated in SDA plates. The plates were left at room temperature so that the sample could be absorbed into the medium before being incubated there for 24 to 48 hours. In order to assess the antifungal activity, the diameter of inhibition zone is measured. Itraconazole is used as positive control and ethanol as negative control.

A comparative evaluation of the variations on the shades of pressable ceramic system with the layering technique after different number of firing cycles: An in vitro study.

The main aim of the present study was to compare and evaluate the effect of repetitive firings on different shades of a pressable all ceramic system layered with veneering porcelain. In-vitro comparative study. An in vitro comparative study was conducted, and a total of 60 disc shaped specimens (15 mm in diameter and 0.8 mm in thickness) were made of heat pressed ceramic of shades A2, A3, and B2 (20 discs of each shade) grouped as Group I, II, and III, respectively, using the lost wax technique. The discs were subsequently layered with veneering porcelain followed by glazing and overglazing and underwent a firing cycle at each step until six times combined. CIE L*a*b* measurements were noted on each sample after the third, fourth, fifth, and sixth firing using VITA Easyshade Advance 4.0 spectrophotometer. Statistical Analysis was done by SPSS 17.0 software. One way analysis of variance, multiple comparisons using the Tukey test, and descriptive statistical analysis were done for all the groups in the study. P <0.05 was statistically significant. The mean color differences for the repeated firings were imperceptible (ΔE <1.67) to the human eye for all ceramic samples tested except between the fourth and fifth firing of Group II (shade A3). The analysis revealed that although repeated firings lead to changes in L*, a*, and b* values, the mean color difference was below the clinically acceptable color change (ΔE <3.7).

Fission counter array for pulse-mode measurements of high-flux and high-energy neutrons

This manuscript describes a neutron counting system based on cylindrical fission counters that can monitor neutron activity for high-energy neutron flux above 10 MeV under electrically noisy environments with intense gamma rays. Miniature fission counters with depleted uranium as sensitive material and modular electronics were built for digital signal processing and high-countrate operation. The counters are 9.5 mm in diameter and 71.1 mm in active length. The author presents the results of Monte Carlo simulations of the fission-counter response for selected neutron sources and energies based on ENDF, JENDL, and TENDL nuclear data libraries from 1 meV to 200 MeV. For a white neutron beam (E¯ = 16.36 MeV) that irradiates the front face of a counter, the intrinsic efficiency is evaluated to be (2.24 ± 0.02) × 10−5 counts/n, while the efficiency of the counter in the array appears to increase by at most 6.7%.

197 Pre-clinical Ex-vivo Study of a 3D Neuronavigation With a Neurosurgical Microrobot

INTRODUCTION: Access to deep brain structures for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes remains a challenge for neurosurgeons. To solve this obstacle, we are developing a micro-robot with the technology to navigate the brain with 3D curved trajectories that will open a new range of possibilities in the neurosurgical world (tumor identification, treatment of epileptic foci, DBS, targeted therapies, fenestration of membranes). The microrobot is tracked and navigated with a transcranial ultrasound system. METHODS: 10 cadaveric studies were performed using 4 adult swine and 6 human subjects using micro-robot models with diameters of 4.5 mm and 2.9 mm. The microrobotic base for injection and ultrasound tracking of the microrobot (CAP) was placed on the skull at the insertion hole. The micro-robot was remotely controlled, and the surgeries were performed in a hybrid operating room with 3D fluoroscopy, allowing us to validate the surgery feasibility and evaluate the accuracy of the transcranial tracking. RESULTS: 20 burr holes were performed with holes ranging from 4-9 mm in diameter. The microrobot was inserted successfully infall cases. The navigation was effective with straight or curved trajectories in 18 cases and the targeted points were reached in 16 cases. We observed a mean 3D tracking accuracy of 1.49mm with a S.D. of 0.58 mm, demonstrating a millimetric tracking accuracy, similar to the best stereotaxy performance. CONCLUSIONS: These results are a world first, proving the feasibility of intracerebral parenchymal microrobotic neuro-navigation with a millimetric ultrasound transcranial tracking. Future tests will allow testing new prototypes of 1.8mm diameter enabling clinical translation.

Association of Fordyce Granules with Skin Types – A Cross-Sectional Study

ABSTRACT Background: Fordyce granules, sometimes referred to as Fordyce dots, are aberrant sebaceous glands that present as diminutive, non-painful, elevated lesions exhibiting a yellowish or whitish hue, measuring 1 to 3 mm in diameter, and manifesting inside the oral cavity. Likewise, these particles may also be seen in the vaginal region and inside the oral cavity. Aim: The primary objective of the current study is to evaluate the potential association between Fordyce granules and the skin type of individuals who seek dental care at the Dental Clinics of Qassim University. Materials and Methods: The current cross-sectional research was undertaken at the Dental Clinics of Qassim University, with a sample of 87 patients diagnosed with Fordyce’s granules. The research consisted of a heterogeneous sample of participants, including individuals of all genders, ranging in age from 18 to 85 years. The study included a comprehensive evaluation of several anatomical regions to identify the existence of Fordyce’s granules. This examination was conducted by a single examiner who had undergone calibration. Additionally, the participants’ skin types were established using the Baumann Skin Typing System questionnaire. The data that was gathered was afterward analyzed utilizing statistical methods via the use of SPSS software. A pre-set significance level was established at P &lt; 0.05. Results: The distribution of skin types among the study participants with Fordyce’s granules were found to be oily skin (51.3%), dry skin (47.9%), sensitive skin (49.3%), and resistant skin (56.3%). The results of the research showed that there was no statistically significant correlation between the two variables, i.e. skin type and the presence of Fordyce’s granules. This conclusion is supported by the increased P values of 0.941 for those with oily skin and 0.785 for individuals with dry skin. Conclusion: No relation between skin type and Fordyce’s granules in the current study.

Evaluation of the Impact of Different Surface Treatments on Implant Surface: An In Vitro Study

ABSTRACT Aim: The current study was conducted to assess the effects of various surface treatments on the implant surface. Materials and Methods: A total of 45 dental implants measuring 16 mm in length and 5 mm in diameter were used, along with the appropriate abutments. Depending on the surface treatment used, the samples were randomly split into three groups, with 15 implants in each group: Group 1: Control, Group 2: UV light-treated, Group 3: Sandblasted and acid-etched (SLA)-treated. After surface treatment, a scanning electron microscope (SEM) was used to assess the test samples’ surface properties. All sample images were captured using a 3000× magnification. After all three groups’ surfaces were treated, the surface roughness was measured using a digital optical profilometer with a stylus speed of 0.5 mm/s that was connected to computer software. Results: The maximum surface roughness was found in the group treated with SLA (0.714 ± 0.12), followed by the group treated with UV light (0.692 ± 0.09) and the control group (0.516 ± 0.12). There was a significant difference found between different surface treatment methods. Conclusion: The present study concluded that the group that received the SLA treatment had the highest surface roughness when compared to the UV light and control groups.

Effects of various beverages on characteristics of provisional restoration materials.

To investigate the effect of common beverages on four currently used provisional restoration materials: Protemp®4, Integrity®, polymethyl methacrylate(PMMA) block, and acrylic resin. Flowable resin composite is included as a control group. Each material was formed into disks of 10-mm diameter and 4-mm thickness (N = 40) by loading the material into acrylic molds. The exposed surface in the mold was covered using a glass slide to prevent an oxygen inhibition layer, and polymerization then proceeded. The solidified disks were placed in distilled water for 24 h. These samples (n = 8) were then immersed for 14 days in one of four different beverages: water, orange juice, cola, and coffee. Changes in color dimension, hardness, and roughness were observed and then analyzed using two-way repeated analysis of variance. The provisional materials had more obvious changes in all three color dimensions than the flowable resin composite. Integrity showed the biggest changes, followed by acrylic resin and PMMA block, whereas Protemp had the smallest changes. The hardness of all the materials significantly decreased after immersion in any of the beverages for 14 days. There were no changes in surface roughness when the materials were immersed in distilled water. The surface roughness of the PMMA block significantly decreased in orange juice whereas that of Integrity and acrylic resin significantly increased in cola. Different kinds of provisional materials had different degrees of staining due to their composition. Moisture had a significant influence on the hardness of materials, and the acidity of cola significantly roughened the surface of the provisional materials.