Salivary Levels Research Articles

Cytokines levels in saliva in periodontitis, oral potentially malignant disorders and squamous cell carcinoma

Biopsy and histopathological examination continue to be the gold standards for diagnosing oral cancer and oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMD). The prognosis of these conditions is significantly influenced by established factors such as the degree of dysplasia, tumour size, grade, and patient age. While these traditional diagnostic approaches are crucial, there is a growing need for innovative methods to improve diagnosis and monitoring of these conditions. We hypothesize that identifying specific diagnostic biomarkers in human saliva, alongside traditional methods, could enhance clinical outcomes in managing both malignant and non-malignant oral pathologies. In this study, salivary levels of previously described biomarkers BDNF, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-15, IL-1RA, LIF, and TNF-α were compared among oral cancer patients, patients with OPMD, periodontal disease patients, and healthy volunteers. The results indicated that these cytokines have the potential to distinguish cancer cases, though they are less effective in differentiating between OPMD and periodontitis. Using pairs or groups of biomolecules could improve the ability to differentiate between different pathological entities. We found the following panel IL-6, IL-15, and IL-1RA to be particularly significant as diagnostic biomarkers for oral squamous cell carcinoma and OPMD.

The Impact of Triclosan-Containing Toothpaste on the Overall and Cariogenic Salivary Microbiota Among Primary School Children

Objectives: Triclosan-diphenyl ether derivate is an agent, which belongs to the Non-Ionic antimicrobial agents group. This study aims to estimate the salivary levels of Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus species in the saliva before and after teeth brushing with a dentifrice containing triclosan/copolymer and to compare the number of whole salivary flora by saliva analysis before and after teeth brushing. Methods: To accomplish our objective, we used a Colgate Total Plus Whitening®, Colgate-Palmolive dentifrice. The group consisted of 24 healthy schoolchildren aged 9 – 13 of both sexes. The counts of Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus species were determined with commercial CRT bacteria strips produced by Ivoclar-Vivadent, Liechtenstein. The total count of the saliva microbial was determined by standard microbiological methods. Results: A significant reduction in salivary MS and LB levels was observed in all samples as well as a decrease in the total count of aerobe and anaerobe bacteria and yeast. Conclusion: The effectiveness of Colgate Total Plus Whitening® toothpaste in reducing salivary aerobes is statistically significant, but its impact on reducing salivary anaerobic microbes is statistically negligible. The bacteria Streptococcus mutans experiences a decrease that is greater than tenfold, while the bacterium Lactobacillus species experiences a reduction of around tenfold.

Evaluation of the Relationship Between Salivary Adipokine Levels With Appetite and Anthropometric Indices in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes.

This study aimed to evaluate the association between salivary adipokine levels, including leptin, chemerin, resistin and interleukin-6, with body mass index (BMI), waist and wrist circumference and appetite in patients with type 2 diabetes. In this cross-sectional study, 104 participants were divided into three groups: 35 diabetic patients, 35 pre-diabetic individuals and 34 healthy controls. Unstimulated saliva samples were collected using the spitting method, and salivary levels of leptin, chemerin, resistin and interleukin-6 were measured via ELISA. Appetite was assessed using a standard questionnaire, and BMI, waist and wrist circumferences were measured with a tape measure. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 26, with a significance threshold set at 0.01. Significant differences were found in the salivary levels of leptin, chemerin, and resistin among the three groups (p < 0.01), but no significant difference was observed in the salivary levels of interleukin-6 (p > 0.01). Analysis also revealed significant differences in appetite traits among the groups, with the highest appetite trait observed in pre-diabetic subjects (p = 0.0002). The salivary level of chemerin was significantly associated with appetite traits regardless of diabetic status (p = 0.009). Appetite was also significantly related to BMI (p = 0.002) and waist circumference (p = 0.001) in all subjects. However, no significant relationship was observed between appetite and fasting plasma glucose or HbA1c levels (p > 0.01). The results of this study indicate that salivary levels of certain adipokines, such as leptin, chemerin and resistin, may be significantly higher in diabetic patients, although this is not true for all adipokines. While pre-diabetic patients exhibited a higher level of appetite, no positive correlation was found between salivary adipokine levels (except chemerin) and appetite or anthropometric characteristics, irrespective of diabetic status.

Original salivary sex hormone data of naturally menstruating athletes and hormonal contraceptive users

ObjectivesThere is a lack of data on salivary sex hormones across the menstrual cycle (MC) or hormonal contraceptive (HC) cycle of elite athletes. We aimed to provide original data on salivary sex hormones (17β-estradiol, progesterone and free testosterone) in naturally menstruating female athletes with a regular cycle or irregular cycle and using combined HC. A secondary purpose was to compare these data with published data from the general population according to the menstrual status (MC or HC or irregularly menstruating).Methods367 saliva tests were performed on 44 elite athletes during 6 months of follow-up to certify for cycle regularity. Athletes were grouped into regular MC, n=13; irregular MC, n=5; and HC, n=26. We compared salivary data of regular MC across six cycle phases (menses, mid-follicular, late follicular, early luteal, mid-luteal and late luteal phases) with published data from women with a similar MC or HC status from the general population.ResultsWe provided salivary original data according to six sub-phases among elite athletes with regular MC. HC athletes showed lower salivary sex hormonal levels, markedly after the first week of active HC compared with regular MC. Athletes with irregular cycles do not show a progesterone rise from the first half to the second half of the cycle (Δirregular=0.38 (1.90), a rise detectable within regular MC group ΔregularMC=2.86 (2.88)).ConclusionsWe provided original data for salivary sex hormone levels in elite female athletes. These references may be valuable for research investigating MC or combined HC data, particularly in longitudinal follow-ups requiring repeated measurements.

The Impact of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus on Minipuberty in Girls.

Minipuberty is the second phase of physiological activation of the reproductive axis, playing a role in the postnatal development of sexual organs. The course of female minipuberty was found to be affected by low maternal vitamin D status and hypothyroidism during pregnancy. The aim of the current study was to assess the hormonal profile and the size of sexual organs in daughters of mothers with gestational diabetes mellitus. The study included three matched groups of infant girls: daughters of healthy women without metabolic disorders during pregnancy (group 1), daughters of women with poorly controlled gestational diabetes mellitus (group 2), and daughters of women with gestational diabetes mellitus adequately controlled during pregnancy (group 3). Urinary levels of gonadotropins, salivary levels of estradiol, testosterone, DHEA-S and progesterone, ovarian volume, uterine length and breast diameter were measured from postnatal month 1 to postnatal month 18. Concentrations of FSH, LH and estradiol were higher, while concentration of progesterone was lower in group 2 than in the remaining groups. There were no between-group differences in concentrations of testosterone and DHEA-S. Levels of LH, FSH, estradiol and progesterone correlated with maternal whole-blood levels of glycated hemoglobin. Group 2 was also characterized by the longest detection periods for LH and estradiol. Ovarian volume, uterine length and breast diameter were greater in group 1 than in the remaining two groups. Over the entire observation period, there were no differences in hormone levels and sizes of the sexual organs between groups 1 and 3. The obtained results suggest that poorly controlled, but not well controlled, gestational diabetes mellitus affects the course of female minipuberty.

Impact of resistance training on salivary interleukin-6 and c-reactive protein – A scoping review

This review examines the impact of resistance training on salivary interleukin-6 (IL-6) and C-reactive protein (CRP). These biomarkers are essential indicators of inflammation and immune response. The study employed a systematic literature review method following the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. 20 articles published so far were included in the literature review, sourced from various databases: PubMed, Google Scholar, ERIC, EBSCO, Embase, Medline, Global Health, and Scopus. Keywords including MESH terms “resistance training,” “salivary IL-6,” “salivary CRP,” and “inflammation.” The inclusion criteria were fixed to studies that involved human participants, measured salivary IL-6 and CRP, and incorporated resistance-training protocols. Studies were excluded if they focused on other forms of exercise or used invasive measurement techniques and were not randomized control traits or quasi-experimental trials. The study population in these articles includes a diverse range of patients, such as the general population, adults, elderly adults, individuals with type 2 diabetes, COVID-19 patients with and without diabetes, patients with systemic inflammation and cardiovascular disease, overweight and obese individuals, and men with varying levels of physical fitness. By focusing on salivary measurements, this review emphasizes non-invasive methods for monitoring the physiological effects of resistance training. This review highlights the potential of resistance training to modulate inflammation as measured by salivary biomarkers. It underscores the importance of considering various factors when designing training programs and interpreting their physiological impacts. The variability in findings suggests that the relationship between resistance training and salivary IL-6 and CRP is complex. The reductions in these markers observed in some studies may be attributed to the anti-inflammatory effects of regular exercise. The final remarks from an intense review of the literature have shown resistance training has the potential to influence salivary IL-6 and CRP levels, reflecting changes in systemic inflammatory and immune responses. However, the impact varies based on training protocols and individual differences. Resistance training and biomarkers have practical applications in physiotherapy, such as developing tailored treatment programs, making progressive load adjustments, selecting appropriate exercise modalities, and providing patient feedback and monitoring. Additionally, more focused studies could investigate the underlying mechanisms behind observed outcomes, and new technologies such as advanced imaging and biomarkers could be incorporated to gain deeper insights. Research could also explore the impact of combining resistance training with other therapeutic modalities or investigate the role of individualized treatments in enhancing patient outcomes.

Salivary IL-1 Beta Level Associated with Poor Sleep Quality in Children/Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Background: Sleep disorders are common in youths with autism spectrum disorders. Inflammatory cytokines such as Il-1 beta and Il-6 in saliva have been associated with alterations in sleep quality in various conditions. We assessed whether there were associations between the salivary concentration of IL-1 beta and IL-6 and sleep quality in youths with ASD versus typically developing (TD) age- and gender-matched youths. Method: Forty children and adolescents with ASD or TD participated in this study (20% females). Their parents answered the items of a validated questionnaire on sleep quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index). Results: The mean Pittsburgh score was significantly higher (i.e., the quality of sleep was poorer) in the ASD group (8.68 ± 0.35 (SEM), ranging from 7 to 12 points), compared to the TD group (7.35 ± 0.54 (SEM), ranging from 2 to 12 points) (p = 0.02, Mann–Whitney U test). There were no significant differences in the salivary concentration of Il-1 beta and IL-6 receptor between the two groups, but salivary IL-1 beta concentration was inversely associated with poor sleep quality in the ASD group. No associations between the salivary Il-6 concentration and sleep quality were found in either group. Linear regression analysis by separate groups revealed significant associations between the sleep quality score and the concentration of IL-1 beta in the ASD group (p = 0.01, OR = −0.53, 95% CI −0.008–0.001). In contrast, no significant associations were observed in the TD group, or for IL-6 in either group. No significant effects of sex, age, or use of psychotropic medications were found. Conclusions: Children and adolescents with ASD showed significantly poorer sleep quality based on their parents’ reports compared to the TD group, and the salivary IL-1 beta concentration was inversely associated with sleep quality only in the ASD group. Further studies on the associations between inflammatory cytokines and sleep in ASD are needed.

Exploring Salivary Alpha-Amylase as a Biomarker in Periodontitis: A Comparative Analysis of Disease Stages and Clinical Correlations

Periodontal disease, characterized by bacterial plaque accumulation and subsequent immune response, can lead to gingivitis and periodontitis if untreated. Salivary alpha-amylase (sAA) has emerged as a potential biomarker with implications in periodontal disease progression. Objectives: This study aimed to assess and compare salivary alpha-amylase levels in individuals with periodontitis and healthy controls and to investigate its relationship with clinical parameters of periodontal disease. Forty-five participants were categorized into periodontally healthy (n = 13), Stage I and II Periodontitis (n = 17), and Stage III and IV periodontitis (n = 15) groups. Saliva samples were collected and analyzed using ELISA kits. Statistical analyses included tests for normality, group comparisons, post hoc analysis, and correlation analysis. Significant differences in salivary alpha-amylase levels were observed among severity groups (p &lt; 0.05), with higher levels in periodontitis patients than healthy controls. Spearman correlation revealed moderate positive associations between alpha-amylase levels and probing depth (PD) and clinical attachment loss (CAL). Elevated salivary alpha-amylase levels were found to be associated with more severe periodontal disease, suggesting its potential as a biomarker for periodontitis severity. These findings support the utility of salivary biomarkers in periodontal disease diagnosis and monitoring, although further validation and standardization are warranted for clinical application.

Comparison of the efficacy of aescin and diclofenac sodium in the management of postoperative sequelae and their effect on salivary Prostaglandin E2 and serum C-reactive protein levels after surgical removal of impacted mandibular third molar: a randomized, double-blind, controlled clinical trial.

Surgical removal of an impacted third molar is one of the most common oral surgical procedures performed in dental offices. The postoperative phase is often associated with severe inflammation. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are usually prescribed to manage postoperative discomfort. NSAIDs have been associated with gastrointestinal bleeding, renal function disturbances, and platelet count reductions. Thus, the present study demonstrates the utility of aescin in managing postoperative discomfort after the surgical removal of impacted mandibular third molars.This study aimed to correlate and compare the impact of aescin and diclofenac on salivary PGE2 levels and serum C-reactive protein levels after surgical extraction of the mandibular third molar. The study will also evaluate and compare the effectiveness of individual drug therapy in managing postoperative pain, swelling and mouth opening. The planned study is a single-center, double-blind, randomized, parallel, prospective clinical trial. Each patient will be prescribed either diclofenac sodium 150 mg/day or aescin (escin) 120 mg/day to be taken orally in divided doses for five days after surgically removing the impacted mandibular third molar.Pain will be assessed using a visual analog scale. Facial swelling and mouth opening will be recorded using a metric scale with standardized reference points. ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) will be employed to measure salivary Prostaglandin E2 and serum C-reactive protein levels. All parameters will be recorded preoperatively (T0) on the second postoperative day (T1) and fifth postoperative day (T2). The proposed study is expected to show a clinically acceptable response to the administration of aescin for the management of postoperative discomfort compared to diclofenac sodium after third molar surgery.The proposed study is expected to positively manipulate the levels of salivary Prostaglandin E2 and serum C-reactive protein, which are reliable inflammatory markers.The outcome of this study may provide an efficacious and safe alternative to conventional nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for managing postoperative discomfort following third molar surgery.

Comparing the Sedative Effect of Dexmedetomidine and Propofol in Mechanically Ventilated Patients Using Salivary Alpha-Amylase as a Stress Marker: A Randomized Open-Label Trial

Background: Patients receiving mechanical ventilation (MV) in the intensive care unit (ICU) experience significant distress, which triggers a stress response. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of dexmedetomidine and propofol in reducing stress levels, using salivary alpha-amylase (SAA) as a specific indicator of stress. Methods: A randomized, open-label trial was conducted involving 40 patients newly placed on MV. In a parallel study design, participants were randomly assigned into two equal groups (n = 20) through the sealed envelope method using computer-generated randomization. Group D received dexmedetomidine at a dosage of 0.2 to 1.4 μg/kg/h, while group P received propofol at a dosage of 0.3 to 4 mg/kg/h for sedation. Salivary alpha-amylase levels were measured according to the kit manufacturer's protocol. Results: Salivary alpha-amylase levels were significantly lower in group D than in group P at 12, 24, 36, and 48 hours after the initiation of MV (P &lt; 0.05). Heart rate and mean arterial pressure were also significantly lower in group D at 12, 18, and 24 hours (P &lt; 0.05). The duration of MV was significantly shorter in group D compared to group P (4.4 ± 1.85 vs 6.1 ± 2.45 days, P = 0.018). There were no significant differences in ICU length of stay, mortality, or adverse events between the groups. Conclusions: Dexmedetomidine demonstrated superior stress-reducing effects compared to propofol in MV patients, as evidenced by lower SAA levels and improved hemodynamic stability. The shorter duration of MV in the dexmedetomidine group further suggests potential clinical benefits of its use in managing stress in MV patients.

The Variability of the Salivary Antimicrobial Peptide Profile: Impact of Lifestyle.

Saliva is crucial in maintaining oral health; its composition reflects the body's physiological and diseased state. Among salivary components, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) stand out for their broad antimicrobial activities and role in modulating the oral microbiota and innate immune response. Local and systemic diseases can affect the levels of AMPs in saliva, making them attractive biomarkers. However, the large variability in their concentrations hampers their use in diagnostics. Knowledge of the various factors influencing the profile of salivary AMPs is essential for their use as biomarkers. Here, we examine how lifestyle factors such as physical activity, dietary supplementation, tobacco smoking, and psychological stress impact salivary AMP levels. By understanding these sources of variability, we can take a step forward in using AMPs for diagnostics and prognostics and develop new tailored and preventative approaches.

Comparative Analysis of Glandular and Extraglandular Manifestations in Primary and Secondary Sjögren's Syndrome: A Study in Two Academic Centers in North-East Romania.

This study investigates the clinical characteristics and differences between primary Sjögren's Syndrome (pSS) and secondary Sjögren's Syndrome (sSS) in a cohort of 50 patients. Conducted across two academic facilities in North-East Romania, the study emphasizes the importance of glandular and extraglandular manifestations, focusing on salivary flow rates, pH levels, and buffer capacity. Patients were diagnosed using the 2016 ACR-EULAR classification criteria, with a detailed examination including salivary tests, biopsies, and antibody presence. The findings highlight significant differences between pSS and sSS, particularly in salivary function, with pSS patients exhibiting more severe glandular dysfunction. The study also notes a higher prevalence of inflammatory joint involvement in sSS patients, often associated with rheumatoid arthritis. Statistical analysis revealed correlations between salivary parameters and disease progression, underscoring the necessity of tailored treatment strategies. The research suggests that lower salivary flow rates and altered pH levels in pSS patients contribute to compromised oral health, including increased dental cavities and periodontal disease. The study's results contribute to a deeper understanding of Sjögren's Syndrome and reinforce the need for multidisciplinary management to address both systemic and oral health complications in these patients.

Preoperative hyperamylasemia relates to renal dysfunction and hyperamylasemia in cardiac surgery: an observational study.

The role of preoperative hyperamylasemia in the perioperative enzyme levels in patients undergoing cardiac surgery is unclear. The primary outcome of this observational clinical study was to determine whether patients with preoperative hyperamylasemia undergoing on-pump cardiac surgery document an increase in serum amylase levels perioperatively compared with patients with normal serum amylase levels preoperatively. This prospective study evaluated serum total, pancreatic, and salivary amylase levels, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and serum creatinine before the operation at postoperative days (POD) 1, 2, 3, and 7. We also followed up on any perioperative symptoms, including abdominal pain and lower ear or jaw swelling. We preoperatively had 157 patients with normal amylase levels (Normal group) and 45 with hyperamylasemia (Hyperamylasemia group). The Hyperamylasemia group demonstrated continuously lower eGFR and higher creatinine values at the preoperative time, postoperative days 1, 2, 3, and 7, compared with the Normal group. The Hyperamylasemia group showed higher serum total, pancreatic, and salivary amylase levels at preoperative (total 70 [55-90] [Normal] vs. 142 [107 to 162] [Hyperamylasemia] IU/L, median [25-75th percentile], P < 0.001) and postoperative periods compared with the Normal group. The relationship between renal dysfunction and serum amylase levels in all patients was significant in the preoperative, but not postoperative, periods. We noted no patients demonstrating clinical symptoms. Preoperative hyperamylasemia in patients undergoing on-pump cardiac surgery was associated with renal dysfunction without needing hemodialysis. However, whether the relation affects postoperative serum amylase levels is inconclusive.

Association between total functional tooth unit score and hemoglobin A1c levels in Japanese community-dwelling individuals: the Nagasaki Islands study.

It is widely recognized that periodontal disease is associated with diabetes mellitus. Periodontal disease is accompanied by inflammation of the periodontal tissue, impaired masticatory function, and the presence of periodontopathic bacteria, all of which may affect glycemic control. However, the exact relationship between these factors and glycemic control has not yet been established. In this study, we aimed to investigate the relationship between periodontal disease-related factors and glycemic control in Japanese community-dwelling individuals. We conducted a cross-sectional study involving 671 participants aged 29-92 (65.3 ± 12.1) years, using data from the Nagasaki Islands Study. Participants underwent routine medical examinations, including body mass index (BMI) and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels. Information on the participants' demographics (age and sex) and whether they were on diabetes medications, had an exercise habit, consumed alcohol, engaged in late-night eating, had regular dental checkups, and smoked was obtained using a self-administered questionnaire. Dental examinations were performed to examine dentition status, probing pocket depth, clinical attachment level (CAL), and bleeding on probing. Functional tooth units (FTUs), defined as pairs of occluding posterior teeth, were used as an indicator of occlusal support area. Saliva samples were collected and levels of two species of periodontopathic bacteria (Porphyromonas gingivalis and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans) were determined using real-time polymerase chain reaction. We analyzed the association between HbA1c levels and variables related to periodontal status, masticatory function, and salivary levels of periodontopathic bacteria. Bivariate analysis showed that HbA1c levels were significantly associated with age, sex, exercise habit, BMI, diabetes medications, CAL, salivary P. gingivalis level, number of teeth, and three FTU subcategories. In the multiple regression analysis, age, BMI, diabetes medications, and total FTU score (i.e., including natural teeth, implant-supported artificial teeth, fixed prostheses, and removable dentures) remained associated with HbA1c levels (B = 0.23, 0.14, 0.52, and - 0.12; p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, and p = 0.008, respectively). In this community-based cross-sectional study, total FTU was significantly associated with HbA1c levels, independent of other risk factors. This suggests that reconstructed occlusal support areas, including dentures, are associated with glycemic control in the older population.

Stress Levels and Coping Strategies in Medical Students and its Association with Salivary IL-6 Levels

Background: Medical students face ongoing stress during their training but have developed coping mechanisms. Stress alters various physiological processes, including pro-inflammatory markers like Interleukin-6(IL-6). The present study was conducted to assess stress levels and coping strategies in medical students and their association with salivary IL-6 levels. Methods: This descriptive study was conducted after obtaining institutional ethical clearance. A total of 76 consenting undergraduate medical students answered the Cohen’s perceived stress scale and BriefCOPE questionnaire. Unstimulated saliva was used to assess salivary IL-6 levels using a Diaclone human IL-6 ELISA kit and the data obtained was analyzed. Results: Out of the 76 participants, 59(77.6%) were female and 17(22.4%) were male. Mild stress was reported by 9 students, moderate by 53, and severe stress by 14 students. Based on Kruskal-Wallis p test, most students used approach coping for stress of all levels. This active strategy involves problem-solving and future planning. Approach coping has shown better responses to adversity, physical health, and emotional responsiveness. Mild and moderate stressed students used acceptance, positive-refrain, and planning, while severe stressed students used planning, self-distraction, and self-blame. Despite the perceived stress, there were no significant differences in the salivary IL-6 levels among the three categories. Conclusion: ‘Approach’ coping was commonly used and linked to positive outcomes. Despite this, a number of students have reported to experience stress. Therefore, more effective strategies are needed to handle stress and demands of the profession effectively. Further research with larger samples is recommended to explore salivary IL-6 levels’ relation to stress.

Oxidative damage biomarkers and antioxidant enzymes in saliva of patients with peri-implant diseases

Objectives8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and Malondialdehyde (MDA) are commonly used as markers to evaluate oxidative DNA and Lipid damage in disorders including chronic inflammatory diseases. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) protect tissues against oxidative injury from free oxygen radicals generated by various metabolic processes. The aim of this study was to evaluate 8-OHdG and MDA levels, and SOD and GPx activities in whole saliva of patients with peri-implant diseases.Materials and methodsA cross-sectional study was conducted on a sum of 60 age gender balanced; peri-implantitis (n = 20), peri-mucositis (n = 20) and healthy (n = 20) individuals. Unstimulated whole saliva samples were collected and to determine the clinical condition of each subject; the plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), peri-implant probing pocket depth (PIPD), peri-implant presence of bleeding on probing (BOP) (with/without suppuration) and radiographic signs of crestal bone loss (BL) were measured. The salivary 8-OHdG level was measured using the ELISA method. SOD, GPx activities and MDA levels were determined spectrophotometrically.ResultsA total of 60 individuals had evaluations of 318 implants. In comparison to the peri-mucositis and peri-implantitis groups, the healthy group had significantly lower PI and GI scores (p < 0.001). The PIPD value differed amongst the groups, with the peri-implantitis group having the highest value (p < 0.001). Compared to the peri-mucositis and control groups, the peri-implantitis group had a significantly higher BL score (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively). The peri-implantitis group showed a significantly higher 8-OHdG level (p < 0.001; p < 0.001 respectively) than the peri-mucositis and control groups. Compared to the peri-mucositis and control groups, the peri-implantitis group had a significantly higher MDA level (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively). The peri-implantitis group had a significantly higher SOD level (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively) in comparison to the peri-mucositis and control groups. There was no significant difference in GPx levels between the peri-mucositis and control groups (p > 0.05), while the peri-implantitis group had significantly lower GPx levels than the peri-mucositis and control groups (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively).ConclusionsElevated levels of oxidative stress in saliva may indicate the onset of pathological bone loss surrounding the implant and may be an indication of peri-implantitis.Clinical relevanceIn peri-implant diseases, changes may occur in the levels of 8-OHdG, MDA, SOD and GPx in saliva, which may lead to a deterioration in the oxidant/antioxidant balance.

Quantitative Determination of Salivary Cariogenic Bacteria in Patients With Fixed Orthodontic Appliances.

Fixed orthodontic treatment can alter the oral environment, potentially increasing cariogenic bacteria levels. This study aimed to utilize real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) to quantify salivary levels of cariogenic bacteria in patients undergoing orthodontic treatment with fixed appliances. This case-control study was conducted in Erbil, Iraq, from April 2024 to August 2024. One hundred participants were included in the study by random sampling method and equally divided into two groups: case group ororthodontic group and control group. The orthodontic group included participants with fixed orthodontic brackets, while the control group included participants without current or past orthodontic treatment with matching age and sex as the orthodontic group. Data were collected via questionnaires, clinical examinations, and saliva sampling. Salivary samples were analyzed using real-time PCR to detect Streptococcus mutans (SM) and Lactobacillus (LB) spp. levels. The age ranged from 18 to 30 years, and the mean age of participants was 23.96 ± 3.64 years. No significant differences were observed between the two groups across most parameters, except in the use of fluoride therapy, where the control group demonstrated better usage (p≤0.003). Real-time PCR results indicated a significant difference in the levels of LB and SM between patients with fixed orthodontics and the control group (p≤0.001). However, no significant differences were found in decay indices such as decayed, missing, and filled teeth; decayed, missing, and filled surfaces; and plaque index in this study. The quantity and levels of LB and SM were higher in the orthodontic group compared to the control group. Despite the elevated bacterial levels in the orthodontic group, there was no significant difference in decay and plaque indices between the two groups.

Association of serum and salivary dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) with oral cancerous and precancerous lesions; an observational diagnostic accuracy study

BackgroundEnhancing the prognosis and treatment outcomes of oral cancer relies heavily on its early detection. This study aims to establish a connection between serum and salivary dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) levels and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), comparing them with oral potentially malignant lesions (OPMLs) and control subjects and validating salivary DPP-4 as a diagnostic marker for the early detection of oral cancer.MethodologyForty-five systemically healthy individuals were categorized into three groups: Group I consisted of 15 patients diagnosed with OSCC, Group II comprised 15 patients with OPMLs (including leukoplakia and oral lichen planus), and Group III included 15 participants without any oral mucosal lesions. Serum and whole unstimulated salivary samples were collected from all participants to assess DPP-4 levels using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was conducted to determine the area under the curve (AUC), sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic accuracy of DPP-4.ResultsBoth serum and salivary DPP-4 levels were highest in the healthy group, followed by OPMLs, and lowest in the OSCC group, with statistically significant differences observed. ROC analysis demonstrated excellent diagnostic accuracy of salivary DPP-4 in distinguishing OSCC from healthy individuals, OPMLs from healthy individuals, and OSCC from OPMLs, with accuracies of 100%, 100%, and 96.67%, respectively. Salivary DPP-4 levels also exhibited a statistically significant correlation with OSCC grades.ConclusionsDPP-4 appears to play a protective, anti-oncogenic role in maintaining oral tissue health. The remarkable diagnostic accuracy of both serum and salivary DPP-4 in discriminating between OSCC, OPMLs, and healthy controls suggests its potential utility as a well-established marker for early oral cancer diagnosis. Salivary DPP-4, being non-invasive, could serve as a convenient chair-side diagnostic tool for the early detection of OSCC.Clinical trial registrationThe study was retrospectively registered on clinicaltrial.gov with NCT06087042, date of registration (first posted date): 17/10/2023

Histological Improvement and Cytokine Levels Reduction in Patients with Oral Lichen Planus after Photobiomodulation Therapy.

Background: Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a mucocutaneous disease associated with the formation of symptomatic lesions in the mouth that are often refractory to treatment. An as-yet-unknown antigen triggers an inflammatory reaction in which various immune and non-immune cells release multiple cytokines that contribute to disease progression. The ability of photobiomodulation (PBM) to reduce the symptoms and signs of the disease has been shown, but little is known about its molecular and cellular effects. The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in pro-inflammatory cytokine levels and in histological findings in OLP patients treated with photobiomodulation therapy. Methods: Twenty OLP patients underwent PBM with diode laser (810 nm), (0.50 W, 30 s, 1.2 J/cm2), 3 times weekly for a month. Pain level and clinical scores of lesions were recorded before and after therapy. Salivary levels of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α in OLP patients were measured before and after PBM and compared with those of 10 healthy controls. Biopsies were taken at the beginning and end of treatment to assess pathomorphological changes. Results: PBM significantly reduced the level of pain and clinical scores of the lesions. Salivary levels of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α in OLP patients were significantly higher compared to those in healthy controls and decreased after therapy. 60% of the post-treatment OLP biopsies demonstrated histological improvement, characterized by inflammatory infiltrate reduction (50%), epithelial hyperplasia reduction (30%), epithelial thickening (15%), or epidermal-dermal attachment repair (5%). Conclusion: The effectiveness of PBM therapy in OLP patients was confirmed at the clinical, molecular, and histomorphological levels.

Mental rotation-related neural interactions between gender and cognitive strategy

Abstract A long-standing history of research has focused on the differences between men and women in cognitive tasks, including that men would be more accurate and faster than women in mental rotation (MR). This advantage suggests that men would use an object-based cognitive strategy (OBS) to perform MR, whereas women would rely more on an effector-based cognitive strategy (EBS). To test this hypothesis, participants in the present study performed MR using OBS and EBS (plus a control condition) while their brain activity was recorded using fMRI. As sex hormones have often been reported to influence spatial ability, we also assessed the relationship between MR and testosterone levels and digit ratio. Behavioral results showed that (1) men performed faster MR than women in the OBS and control conditions, (2) men were more accurate than women in the OBS condition, and (3) women performed better in OBS than the other two conditions. No relationship was found between MR and testosterone or digit ratio. fMRI data showed that women in the OBS condition had greater activation than men in the inferior frontal and somatosensory cortices. Salivary testosterone levels had no effect on whole-brain activity. Combining behavioral and brain imaging data, these findings suggest that the additional somatosensory activation found in women during OBS somehow affects their MR, preventing the use of a purely spatial strategy and promoting the use of body-based sensorimotor processing, which would result in lower accuracy. These results support that gender differences in MR would be better explained by considering their relationship with the cognitive strategies used to perform MR.