Search Results (160)

Including dietary fat can increase the energy density of diets fed to ruminants, reducing dry matter intake (DMI). Effects of different fat sources on nutrient digestion and fermentation can vary depending on dietary fat concentration and the forage-to-concentrate ratio (F:C). Therefore, this study’s objective was to screen the effects of fat sources supplemented at different concentrations to high- and low-forage diets on in vitro digestibility and fermentation. Treatments included either low forage (LF; 35%) or high forage (HF; 70%) with two fat levels (6 or 9% DM) using six different fat sources, plus control. The control diet (CON) had a basal level of fat in the diet (3% fat; 0% fat inclusion), and fat sources were added to attain 6% or 9% dietary fat and consisted of the following: Coconut oil, CO; Poultry fat, PF; Palm oil, PO; Palm kernel oil, PKO; Soybean oil, SOY; and Ca Salts, MEG. In vitro Gas Production (GP) modules were randomly assigned to treatments in a 2 × 2 × 7 factorial design and were incubated for four 24 h runs. The CO-fed module had the highest dry matter (DM) apparent digestibility (AD) (p < 0.01), followed by SOY and PF. The true DM digestibility (TDMD) and organic matter (OM) AD were the highest in CO (p < 0.01) than the other fat types. The AD for DM, OM, neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and acid detergent fiber (ADF) was higher in LF (p < 0.01). The 6% fat inclusion had a higher GP (109 vs. 103 mL ± 2.09; p < 0.03). Total volatile fatty acid (VFA) concentration was lower in different fat types than the CON and the acetate molar proportion (p > 0.01). The propionate was the lowest for the CON, which increased the acetate to propionate (A:P) ratio (p < 0.01). These results suggest that LF diets with high fat concentrations can be utilized, and different fat sources may improve DM and fiber digestibility. Full article

Although niflumic acid (NA) is one of the most used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, it suffers from poor solubility, low bioavailability, and significant adverse effects. To address these limitations, the complexation of NA with cyclodextrins (CDs) is a promising strategy. However, complexing CDs with low molecular weight drugs like NA can lead to low CE. This study explores the development of inclusion complexes of NA with 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (2HP-β-CD), including the effect of converting NA to its sodium salt (NAs) and adding hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) on complex formation. Inclusion complexes were prepared using co-evaporation solvent and freeze-drying methods, and their CE and Ks were determined through a phase solubility study. The complexes were characterized using physicochemical analyses, including FT-IR, DSC, SEM, XRD, DLS, UV-Vis, ¹H-NMR, and ¹H-ROESY. The dissolution profiles of the complexes were also evaluated. The analyses confirmed complex formation for all systems, demonstrating drug–cyclodextrin interactions, amorphous drug states, morphological changes, and improved solubility and dissolution profiles. The NAs-2HP-β-CD-HPMC complex exhibited the highest CE and Ks values, a 1:1 host-guest molar ratio, and the best dissolution profile. The results indicate that the NAs-2HP-β-CD-HPMC complex has potential for delivering NA, which might enhance its therapeutic effectiveness and minimize side effects. Full article

3-Nitrooxypropanol (3-NOP) is a nitrooxy compound that specifically targets methyl-coenzyme M reductase (MCR), ultimately resulting in a reduction in methane production. In this study, we undertook an in vitro investigation of the effects of different dosages of 3-NOP on ruminal fermentation parameters, methane production, and the microbial community. A single-factor completely randomized design was adopted, comprising a control treatment (C), where no 3-NOP was added to the fermentation substrate, and three 3-NOP treatments, where 0.025 mg (low-dose treatment, LD), 0.05 mg (medium-dose treatment, MD), or 0.1 mg (high-dose treatment, HD) was added to 1 g of fermentation substrate (DM basis), followed by incubation for 24 h in vitro. The results showed that, compared with the control treatment, the three dosages of 3-NOP reduced total gas production, methane production, and acetate production (all p < 0.01). In contrast, 3-NOP treatment increased H₂ production and the molar proportions of propionate and butyrate (all p ≤ 0.02), resulting in a decrease in the acetate-propionate ratio (p < 0.01). Meanwhile, the microbial profiles were not altered by the treatments, but the relative abundances of Prevotella, Methanobrevibacter, and Ophryoscolex were increased by the MD and HD treatments (all p < 0.01), whereas those of Methanosarcina, Methanosaeta, Sphaerochaeta, RFN20, Entodinium, and Diplodinium were decreased by the HD treatment (all p ≤ 0.03). Moreover, the results of a correlation analysis showed that there was a certain correlation between these microorganisms and total gas production, methane production, H₂ production, acetate, propionate, and butyrate. In summary, under in vitro conditions, the addition of 3-NOP to the diet affected the microbial community structure, thereby altering the ruminal fermentation pattern and reducing methane production. Our results indicated that 0.05 mg per g of dietary DM is the recommended inclusion ratio for 3-NOP in the diet of lambs. Full article

Cationic gemini surfactants have emerged as potential gene delivery agents as they can co-assemble with DNA due to a strong electrostatic association. Commonly, DNA complexation is enhanced by the inclusion of a helper lipid (HL), which also plays a key role in transfection efficiency. The formation of lipoplexes, used as non-viral vectors for transfection, through electrostatic and hydrophobic interactions is affected by various physicochemical parameters, such as cationic surfactant:HL molar ratio, (+/−) charge ratio, and the morphological structure of the lipoplexes. Herein, we investigated the DNA complexation ability of mixtures of serine-based gemini surfactants, (nSer)₂N5, and monoolein (MO) as a helper lipid. The micelle-forming serine surfactants contain long lipophilic chains (12 to 18 C atoms) and a five CH₂ spacer, both linked to the nitrogen atoms of the serine residues by amine linkages. The (nSer)₂N5:MO aggregates are non-cytotoxic up to 35–90 µM, depending on surfactant and surfactant/MO mixing ratio, and in general, higher MO content and longer surfactant chain length tend to promote higher cell viability. All systems efficaciously complex DNA, but the (18Ser)₂N5:MO one clearly stands as the best-performing one. Incorporating MO into the serine surfactant system affects the morphology and size distribution of the formed mixed aggregates. In the low concentration regime, gemini–MO systems aggregate in the form of vesicles, while at high concentrations the formation of a lamellar liquid crystalline phase is observed. This suggests that lipoplexes might share a similar bilayer-based structure. Full article

Objective: This systematic review aims to summarize the evidence on the use and applicability of AI in impacted mandibular third molars. Methods: Searches were performed in the following databases: PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. The study protocol is registered at the International Platform of Registered Systematic Review and Meta-analysis Protocols (INPLASY202460081). The retrieved articles were subjected to an exhaustive review based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria for the study. Articles on the use of AI for diagnosis, treatment, and treatment planning in patients with impacted mandibular third molars were included. Results: Twenty-one articles were selected and evaluated using the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN) evidence quality scale. Most of the analyzed studies dealt with using AI to determine the relationship between the mandibular canal and the impacted mandibular third molar. The average quality of the articles included in this review was 2+, which indicated that the level of evidence, according to the SIGN protocol, was B. Conclusions: Compared to human observers, AI models have demonstrated decent performance in determining the morphology, anatomy, and relationship of the impaction with the inferior alveolar nerve canal. However, the prediction of eruptions and future horizons of AI models are still in the early developmental stages. Additional studies estimating the eruption in mixed and permanent dentition are warranted to establish a comprehensive model for identifying, diagnosing, and predicting third molar eruptions and determining the treatment outcomes in the case of impacted teeth. This will help clinicians make better decisions and achieve better treatment outcomes. Full article

The copper–cobalt metal oxide composite magnesium oxide catalyst loaded with Ru has achieved the aerobic oxidation of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) to the bio-based polyester monomer 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) under base-free conditions. Several Ru/Cu-Co-O·MgO catalysts were prepared, with Cu-Co-O being a combination of CuO and Co₃O₄. The catalyst’s activity was boosted by the synergistic interaction between copper and cobalt, as well as an optimal copper-to-cobalt molar ratio. Optimal catalytic activity was observed in the Ru₄/Cu1-Co1-O·MgO catalyst, loaded with 4 wt% Ru when copper-to-cobalt molar ratio of 1:1 and magnesium oxide compounding amount of 6 mmol were employed. The inclusion of MgO and the load of Ru not only expanded the specific surface area of the catalyst but also heightened its basicity. Additionally, the presence of loaded Ru improved the catalyst’s reducibility at low temperatures. In aqueous solution under oxygen pressure, the conversion rate of HMF achieved 100%, and the yield of FDCA was 86.1%. After five reaction cycles, examining the catalyst and solution revealed that Ru nanoparticles resisted leaching or oxidation, and MgO exhibited only slight dissolution. The green separation of the product was achieved using semi-preparative liquid chromatography, selectively collecting the FDCA-containing solution by exploiting variations in interactions between solutes and the stationary/mobile phases. The subsequent steps involved rotary evaporation and drying, resulting in FDCA powder with a purity exceeding 99%. Notably, this approach eliminated the need to introduce concentrated hydrochloric acid into the system for FDCA separation, providing a novel method for synthesising powdered FDCA. Full article

Objectives: This study aimed to find if a relationship exists between antero-posterior malocclusions and the level of musculoskeletal disorders in adults, including body posture and static foot analysis. Methods: In all, 420 participants were recruited through convenience sampling (Kraków University students and patients of a local dentist’s practice). Following general medical interviews, dental examinations and consideration of inclusion and exclusion criteria, 90 healthy volunteers (ages 19–35) were enrolled and assigned to three groups (n = 30) based on occlusion type (Angle’s molar Class I, II or III). The research procedure involved occlusion and temporomandibular disorder assessment conducted by a dental specialist. Comprehensive morphological measurements of body asymmetry were performed using the Videography 2D package and FreeSTEP software, which calculated the parameters determined from anterior, posterior and lateral projection photos. Foot loading distribution was analyzed using the FreeMED baropodometric platform. Results: Significant differences were demonstrated in the positioning of the head, cervical and lumbar spine in the sagittal plane among individuals with the analyzed occlusal classes (p < 0.05). Individuals with Angle’s Class II exhibited significantly greater forward head positions and greater depths of cervical and lumbar lordosis compared with individuals with Class III or Class I. Those with overbites had higher forefoot loading. The Class III individuals exhibited greater L-R displacement, indicating a larger angle of displacement of the centers of the right and left feet relative to the lower edge of the measurement platform, suggesting pelvic rotation. Conclusions: An inclination for concurrent occurrences of malocclusions and posture deviations in the sagittal plane was observed. An interdisciplinary approach involving dentistry and physiotherapy specialists which utilizes tools for comprehensive posture assessment is crucial for diagnosing and treating such conditions. Full article

This study evaluated the synergistic effects of prebiotics containing galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) and/or mannan oligosaccharides (MOS), essential oil blend (EOB), and onion peel (OPE) on fermentation characteristics using the rumen simulation technique (RUSITEC) system. Three rumen-cannulated, non-lactating Holstein Friesian cows were the inoculum donors. The substrate used for the study was a total mixed ration (TMR), which consisted of corn silage, alfalfa hay, and concentrate at 6:2:2, respectively. Sixteen fermentation vessels were randomly allotted to four treatments with four replicates each over a 9-day period in a completely randomized design. The treatments assessed include: control [TMR only], GEO [TMR + GOS + EOB + OPE], MEO [TMR + MOS + EOB + OPE], and OLEO [TMR + OLG + EOB + OPE]. OLG comprises GOS and MOS in equal proportion. EOB was included at 3 µL/g, while OPE, GOS, MOS, and OLG were added at 30 mg/g TMR. Results showed that pH, gas volume, effluent volume, and ammonia-N were not affected (p > 0.05) by the different additives. Similarly, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and nutrient digestibility were not affected by the treatments. Compared to the control, total volatile fatty acids (VFA) were decreased (p < 0.05) by 14.8, 10.8, and 8.5% with GEO, MEO, and OLEO inclusion, respectively, while the molar proportion of acetate was increased (p = 0.011) by 3.3, 1.1, and 3.8% with GEO, MEO, and OLEO inclusion, respectively. MEO increased isobutyrate (p = 0.001) and branched chain VFA (p = 0.013) contents; however, GEO and OLEO inclusion reduced them. Overall, the interaction of EOB, OPE, GOS, and/or MOS did not affect nutrient digestibility or GHG emissions but reduced VFA production. Further research is recommended to assess the dose effect of the additives on GHG emissions and VFA production; and to determine the long-term effects of these interventions on the rumen microbiome and animal performance. Full article

Objective: This systematic review investigates the diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic implications of immunohistochemical markers in dentigerous cysts (DCs) and odontogenic keratocysts (OKCs) associated with impacted third molars. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive search strategy was employed across major databases including MEDLINE/PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science, from the inception of the databases to March 2024. Keywords and Medical Subject Heading (MeSH) terms such as “dentigerous cysts”, “odontogenic keratocysts”, “immunohistochemistry”, “Ki-67”, and “p53” were used. The PRISMA 2020 guidelines were followed to ensure methodological rigor. Inclusion criteria encompassed studies on humans and animals providing definitive diagnoses or specific signs and symptoms related to DCs and OKCs, with results on protein expression derived from immunohistochemistry, immune antibody, proteomics, or protein expression methods. Results: Of the 159 studies initially identified, 138 met the inclusion criteria. Our analysis highlighted significantly higher expressions of Ki-67 (22.1% ± 4.7 vs. 10.5% ± 3.2, p < 0.001), p53 (15.3% ± 3.6 vs. 5.2% ± 1.9, p < 0.001), and Bcl-2 (18.4% ± 3.2 vs. 8.7% ± 2.4, p < 0.001) in OKCs compared to DCs, indicating a higher proliferative index, increased cellular stress, and enhanced anti-apoptotic mechanisms in OKCs. Additionally, PCNA levels were higher in OKCs (25.6% ± 4.5 vs. 12.3% ± 3.1, p < 0.001). Genetic mutations, particularly in the PTCH1 gene, were frequently observed in OKCs, underscoring their aggressive behavior and potential malignancy. Conclusions: The findings emphasize the significant role of immunohistochemical markers in distinguishing between DCs and OKCs, with elevated levels of Ki-67, p53, Bcl-2, and PCNA in OKCs suggesting a higher potential for growth and recurrence. Genetic insights, including PTCH1 mutations, further support the need for personalized treatment approaches. These markers enhance diagnostic accuracy and inform targeted therapeutic strategies, potentially transforming patient management in oral and maxillofacial surgery. Full article

Bovine serum albumin (BSA) hydrogels are non-immunogenic, low-cost, biocompatible, and biodegradable. In order to avoid toxic cross-linking agents, gellan was oxidized with NaIO₄ to obtain new functional groups like dialdehydes for protein-based hydrogel cross-linking. The formed dialdehyde groups were highlighted with FT-IR and NMR spectroscopy. This paper aims to investigate hydrogel films for biomedical applications obtained by cross-linking BSA with oxidized gellan (OxG) containing immobilized β-cyclodextrin–curcumin inclusion complex (β-CD–Curc) The β-CD–Curc improved the bioavailability and solubility of Curc and was prepared at a molar ratio of 2:1. The film’s structure and morphology were evaluated using FT-IR spectroscopy and SEM. The swelling degree (Q%) values of hydrogel films depend on hydrophilicity and pH, with higher values at pH = 7.4. Additionally, the conversion index of -NH₂ groups into Schiff bases increases with an increase in OxG amount. The polymeric matrix provides protection for Curc, is non-cytotoxic, and enhances antioxidant activity. At pH = 5.5, the skin permeability and release efficiency of encapsulated curcumin were higher than at pH = 7.4 because of the interaction of free aldehyde and carboxylic groups from hydrogels with amine groups from proteins present in the skin membrane, resulting in a better film adhesion and more efficient curcumin release. Full article

Background: The management of the surgical wound of partially impacted mandibular third molar surgery has a great impact on recovery as well as on food impact retention. The present study used clinical parameters and health-related quality of life (HRQL) to compare outcomes of cyanoacrylate application versus traditional suture of third molar impaction surgery. Methods: This was a retrospective observational study of subjects scheduled for outpatient third molar surgery. Each participant signed an informed consent agreement. Inclusion criteria were as follows: presence of at least one partially impacted mandibular third molar, confirmed with a preoperative panoramic radiograph. Exclusion criteria were the following: smoking, diagnosed diabetes mellitus. Between June 2020 and September 2023, a total of 78 patients of mean age 31.14 years old (range 21–40 years, standard deviation 9.14), were included in this study—38 patients were male, 40 patients were female. A group of patients received traditional silk suture (G1 = 41 patients), while the second group (G2 = 37 patients) received hemostasis performed with fibrin sponge and, after complete soaking of the sponge, the application of cyanoacrylate gel on the blood clot and suture with one 2/0 stitch in order for recovery for secondary closure. The following parameters were measured: HRQL, average pain (AP), maximum pain (MP), complication score (CS), facial swelling (FS), and erythema. Results: For HRQL parameters, oral disability was found to be significantly higher in G1 while AP was significantly higher in G2 (p < 0.05). AP was higher in G2 (p = 0.0098), as well as MP (p = 0.001). No differences were found with regards to CS (p = 0.0759). FS and erythema were higher in G1 (p < 0.0001 for facial swelling, and p = 0.0001 for erythema). Conclusions: on the basis of this study, the use of cyanoacrylate after mandibular third molar surgery appears to be useful in order to reduce postoperative oral disability, facial swelling, and erythema after tooth extraction, with increased average and medium pain: clinicians may consider its use in selected cases. Full article

Introduction: With the popularity of clear aligners, the sequential distalization protocol has been more commonly used for molar distalization. However, the amount of molar distalization that can be achieved, as well as the accompanying side effects on the sagittal dimension, are unclear. Methods: Registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023447211), relevant original studies were screened from seven databases (MEDLINE [PubMed], EBSCOhost, Web of Science, Elsevier [SCOPUS], Cochrane, LILACS [Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature], and Google Scholar) supplemented by a manual search of the references of the full-reading manuscripts by two investigators independently. A risk of bias assessment was conducted, relevant data were extracted, and meta-analysis was performed using RStudio. Results: After the screening, 13 articles (11 involving maxillary distalization, two involving mandibular distalization) met the inclusion criteria. All studies had a high or medium risk of bias. The meta-analysis revealed that the maxillary first molar (U6) mesiobuccal cusp was distalized 2.07 mm [1.38 mm, 2.77 mm] based on the post-distalization dental model superimposition, and the U6 crown was distalized 2.00 mm [0.77 mm, 3.24 mm] based on the post-treatment lateral cephalometric evaluation. However, the U6 mesiobuccal root showed less distalization of 1.13 mm [−1.34 mm, 3.60 mm], indicating crown distal tipping, which was validated by meta-analysis (U6-PP angle: 2.19° [1.06°, 3.33°]). In addition, intra-arch anchorage loss was observed at the post-distalization time point (U1 protrusion: 0.39 mm [0.27 mm, 0.51 mm]), which was corrected at the post-treatment time point (incisal edge-PTV distance: −1.50 mm [−2.61 mm, −0.39 mm]). Conclusion: About 2 mm maxillary molar distalization can be achieved with the sequential distalization protocol, accompanied by slight molar crown distal tipping. Additional studies on this topic are needed due to the high risk of bias in currently available studies. Full article

Background: Molar distalization is used to correct molar relationships or to create space for mild anterior crowding. However, whether clear aligners can provide proper vertical control with the sequential distalization strategy has been highly debated. Thus, the current study aimed to systematically review the amount of dentoskeletal changes in the vertical dimension that results from sequential molar distalization in clear aligner therapy without temporary anchorage devices (TADs). Methods: Registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023447211), relevant original studies were screened from seven databases and supplemented by a manual search by two investigators independently. Articles were screened against inclusion and exclusion criteria, and a risk of bias assessment was conducted for each included article. Relevant data were extracted from the included articles and meta-analysis was performed using RStudio. Results: Eleven articles (nine for maxillary distalization and two for mandibular distalization) were selected for the final review. All studies have a high or medium risk of bias. For maxillary molar distalization, the meta-analysis revealed 0.26 mm [0.23 mm, 0.29 mm] of maxillary first molar intrusion based on post-distalization dental model analysis, as well as 0.50 mm [−0.78 mm, 1.78 mm] of maxillary first molar intrusion and 0.60 mm [−0.42 mm, 1.62 mm] of maxillary second molar intrusion based on post-treatment lateral cephalometric analysis. Skeletally, there was a −0.33° [−0.67°, 0.02°] change in the SN-GoGn angle, −0.23° [−0.30°, 0.75°] change in the SN-MP angle, and 0.09° [−0.83°, 1.01°] change in the PP-GoGn angle based on post-treatment lateral cephalometric analysis. There was insufficient data for meta-analysis for mandibular molar distalization. Conclusions: No significant changes in vertical dimension were observed, both dentally and skeletally, after maxillary molar distalization with a sequential distalization strategy. However, further studies on this topic are needed due to the high risk of bias in the currently available studies. Full article

The relevance of assessing the gingival phenotype prior to the initiation of periodontal, orthodontic, or prosthetic therapy has been clearly demonstrated. However, publications on this subject are either old or concerned with the means of assessing the gingival phenotype or the main factors likely to modify it. The main objective of this systematic review of the literature was therefore to investigate the prevalence of different gingival phenotypes in adults in good general health and with a healthy periodontium. A systematic review of the literature was performed following the guidelines of PRISMA recommendations using an electronic search strategy on four databases (PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and Embase) complemented by a manual search. Three independent authors were involved in study selection, data extraction, and bias assessment. Results: Of 807 articles, 17 of them, published between 2012 and 2023, involving 3277 subjects from 11 countries and 9766 dental sites, fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The prevalence of the gingival phenotype could not be determined at the level of an individual or a dental arch because all the publications assessed this phenotype only at the level of certain dental sectors, and were not chosen at random. The maxillary central incisors and maxillary or mandibular first molar sectors were associated with a high and thick gingival phenotype, independently of the dental morphology, gender, and age of adult subjects. Furthermore, in these regions, this gingival phenotype tended to be associated with a thick vestibular bone table. In contrast, maxillary and mandibular incisors and premolars more often had a thin gingival phenotype. For other teeth, the results were less conclusive. It is important not to rely solely on the overall appearance of the dentition but to independently assess the thickness and height of the gingiva at each dental site requiring intervention. Finally, this study highlights a key point, namely the need for further longitudinal studies to determine the prevalence in healthy adults. For practicality and feasibility reasons, these studies should be designed according to therapeutic needs, dental sector by dental sector, and within homogeneous source populations. PROSPERO registration: CRD 42023392602. Full article

Ethanamizuril (EZL) is a new anticoccidial drug developed by our Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute. Since EZL is almost insoluble in water, we conducted a study to improve the solubility of EZL by forming inclusion complexes with β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) and hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD). In this study, we performed molecular docking and then systematically compared the interactions of EZL with β-CD and HP-β-CD in both aqueous solution and the solid state, aiming to elucidate the solubilization effect and mechanism of cyclodextrins (CDs). The interactions were also examined in the solid state using DSC, PXRD, and FT-IR. The interactions of EZL with CDs in an aqueous solution were investigated using PSA, UV-vis spectroscopy, MS, ¹H NMR, and 2D ROESY. The results of phase solubility experiments revealed that both β-CD and HP-β-CD formed inclusion complexes with EZL in a 1:1 molar ratio. Among them, HP-β-CD exhibited higher K_f (stability constant) and CE (complexation efficiency) values as well as a stronger solubilization effect. Furthermore, the two cyclodextrins were found to interact with EZL in a similar manner. The results of our FT-IR and 2D ROESY experiments are in agreement with the theoretical results derived from molecular simulations. These results indicated that intermolecular hydrogen bonds existing between the C=O group on the triazine ring of EZL and the O-H group of CDs, as well as the hydrophobic interactions between the hydrogen on the benzene ring of EZL and the hydrogen of CDs, played crucial roles in the formation of EZL/CD inclusion complexes. The results of this study can lay the foundation for the future development of high-concentration drinking water delivery formulations for EZL. Full article