Metabolic and ultrastructural renal changes in adult Wistar rats fed by a cafeteria diet

ABSTRACT Purpose: To evaluate, by quantitative and qualitative methods, the glomerular ultrastructure in Wistar rats fed a cafeteria diet. Methods: Male Wistar rats were divided into two groups at 21 days of age: control (C, n = 10) and cafeteria diet (CAF, n = 8). The animals were followed up until 5 months of age, followed by euthanasia. The blood, kidneys, and fat deposits--epididymal, retroperitoneal, and subcutaneous--were extracted and analyzed. Data were analyzed by Student's t test, and p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The cafeteria diet promoted glucose intolerance, hyperglycemia (p < 0.0001), and deposition of retroperitoneal fat (p < 0.005). Scanning electron microscopy revealed that the length of the foot process was similar in both groups. The quantitative analyses by transmission electron microscopy revealed that the cafeteria diet reduced the thickness of the glomerular basement membrane (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The intake of lipids and simple carbohydrates were found to be associated with alteration in the glomerular ultrastructure. However, more studies are needed to evaluate not only the effects of high-protein and high-fat diets on components of the glomerular filtration barrier, but also renal physiology.

Does the combination of whitening toothpaste and hydrogen peroxide bleaching increase the surface roughness and change the morphology of a nanofilled composite?

Aim: To evaluate changes in the surface roughness and morphology of a nanofilled composite following toothbrushing with a whitening (WT) or regular toothpaste (RT), alone or combined with 35% hydrogen peroxide bleaching (HP). Methods: Seventy disc-shaped nanofilled composite (Filtek Z350XT) specimens were randomly divided into groups (n=10): WT, RT, TB (without toothpaste ­ control) or the combinations WT/ HP, RT/HP, TB/HP and HP. All groups underwent toothbrushing simulation (60,000 cycles) and bleaching treatment (4 sessions). Mean surface roughness (Ra, µm) was measured before (T0) and after treatments (TB). Surface morphology was assessed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) at TB. Mean Ra was analyzed using general mixed models and multiple comparisons by the Tukey-Kramer test (α=5%). Results: HP caused no surface roughness changes on the nanofilled composite after treatment (p>0.05). RT toothbrushing, combined or not with HP, increased the surface roughness (p<0.05). WT and WT/ HP protocols had no effect on the surface roughness of the composite (p>0.05). The nanofilled composite submitted to RT toothbrushing combined with HP (RT/HP) presented substantial surface alterations under SEM, showing deep depressions and round-shaped defects. Toothbrushing with RT combined with the bleaching agent increased exposure of the inorganic fillers. Conclusion: WT toothbrushing, regardless of HP combination, or the single HP protocol had no effect on the surface roughness of the nanofilled composite. However, RT combined with HP negatively affected surface roughness and presented the most noticeable surface changes among groups

The red ruffed lemur, Varecia rubra (É. Geoffroy Saint-Hilaire, 1812): a comparative morphology investigation of lingual papillae and connective tissue cores.

The morphology of the lingual papillae (filiform, foliate, fungiform, and vallate papillae) and the underlying connective tissue core of the red ruffed lemur (Varecia rubra) of a strepsirrhines species were studied using light and scanning electron microscopy. The filiform papillae distributed at the root of the tongue were larger than the structures distributed at the body and apex. Six to eight vallate papillae were arranged in a Y-shape at the border between the lingual body and the lingual root. Foliate papillae were observed at the posterior lateral border of the tongue. Scanning electron microscopy revealed a primary process and numerous auxiliary processes in the epithelial layer of filiform papillae. After epithelial removal, the connective tissue core of the filiform papilla showed several protrusions surrounding an oval-shaped depression that extended slightly posteriorly, and a large, maple-shaped filiform papilla was seen in the posterior portion of the tongue. The connective tissue cores of the fungiform papillae exhibited a longitudinally ridged cylindrical structure. The connective tissue core of the foliate papillae had numerous tubular projections arranged along a groove with a salivary gland conduit at the base. As a Lemuridae species, the appearance of the fungiform and filiform papillae of the red ruffed lemur is similar to that reported in previous studies of the ring-tailed lemur, with some differences, especially in the filiform papillary connective tissue core at the base and tongue body border. These findings suggest the taxonomic and phylogenetic origins of the lemurs as well as the influence of dietary diversity.

Cleaning of long oval canals with WaveOne Gold system associated with different irrigant agitation protocols

Aim: The aim of the study was to evaluate the cleaning of mandibular incisors with WaveOne Gold® (WO) under different preparation techniques. Methods: A total of 210 human mandibular incisors were selected and divided into seven groups (n = 30), prepared by WO single-files (Small 20/.07 ­ WOS; Primary 25/.07 ­ WOP; Medium 35/.06 ­ WOM; or Large 45/.05 - WOL) and sequential-file techniques (WOS to WOP; WOS to WOM; and WOS to WOL). Further subdivision was made according to irrigation protocol: control group (manual irrigation - CON), E1 Irrisonic® - EIR, and EDDY® - EDD. Debris removal and the smear layer were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy. Data were analyzed by using Spearman's correlation test. The significance level was set at 5%. Results: For debris and smear layer removal, WOS and WOP, EIR differed from CON and EDD (p <0.05). Conclusion: Regardless of the instrumentation used, the agitation of the irrigant solution provided better cleanability. These findings reinforce the need for agitation techniques as adjuvants in cleaning root canal systems in mandibular incisors

Surface characterization of indirect restorative materials submitted to different etching protocols.

OBJECTIVES: This in vitro study aimed to evaluate the effect of different times and concentrations of hydrofluoric acid etching on the surface of indirect restorative materials obtained from blocks used in CAD-CAM technology. METHODS: Specimens (4 mm × 4 mm × 0.8 mm) were obtained for each indirect restorative material: zirconia-reinforced lithium monosilicate ceramic (Celtra Duo), nanoceramic resin (Lava Ultimate), and polymer-infiltrated ceramic network material (Vita Enamic). The materials were submitted to etching with 5% or 10% hydrofluoric acid for 20, 40, 60, or 90 s. A control group for each material was evaluated without any surface treatment, totaling nine experimental groups for each material (n = 10). The specimens were evaluated for surface roughness (Ra and Rz), confocal optical microscopy, the contact angle (θ), surface free energy (γs), total free interaction energy (∆G) using a goniometer, and microshear bond strength to resin cement. Specimen images were obtained using scanning electron microscopy, confocal optical microscopy, and atomic force microscopy. Data on the surface roughness, the contact angle, surface free energy, total free interaction energy, and bond strength were subjected to two-way ANOVA and Tukey´s test (α=0.05). RESULTS: In general, Celtra Duo showed better results after etching with 10% hydrofluoric acid for 40 or 60 s. Lava Ultimate showed better performance after etching with 10% hydrofluoric acid for 20 or 40 s, whereas Vita Enamic showed better results after etching with 5% hydrofluoric acid for 90 s. CONCLUSION: Each material showed different characteristics after etching with hydrofluoric acid. Knowledge of the proper protocol for each material is essential to ensure improvements in the adhesion process and durability of indirect restorations. In general, Celtra Duo presented mechanical properties superior to those of Lava Ultimate and Vita Enamic. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Specific etching protocols must be recommended for each indirect material because longer exposure to hydrofluoric acid can jeopardize the surface, thus affecting the mechanical and bond strength properties.

Acanthocytes Identified in Huntington's Disease.

Background: Neuroacanthocytosis (NA) and Huntington's disease (HD) are neurodegenerative conditions that share clinical symptoms and imaging findings, despite their distinct genetic etiologies. Usually, the presence of acanthocytes can help narrow the differential diagnosis of a familial choreiform disorder, as the diagnosis of NA syndrome is supported by the presence of acanthocytes in peripheral blood. In this study, we demonstrate four patients who present with HD and acanthocytosis. Methods: We retrieved the data of 40 HD patients with fresh peripheral blood screened for erythrocytes in our hospital from 2014 to 2022. Of these 40 patients, four patients with acanthocytes were recruited for this study. Patients' investigations included clinical and laboratory studies, HTT gene sequencing, and whole-exome sequencing. Fresh peripheral blood was screened for erythrocytes by scanning electron microscopy. Results: The four adult patients were Han Chinese and unrelated. The age ranged from 45 to 61 years, with a disease duration of 4-10 years. The main neurological features at diagnosis included progressive involuntary movements, psychiatric changes, and dementia. Genetic analysis showed an expansion at the HTT gene. The mean proportion of acanthocytes was mild (6-10%) elevated in patient one and high (>20%) elevated in patients 2-4 by scanning electron microscopy examination. Conclusion: Our study illustrates that HD can combine with acanthocytosis, which may expand the clinical phenotype. Even though the primary gene defect appears to be predominately directed at the brain, a peripheral defect can be seen in HD. Our study highlights the complexity and diversity of HD.

Blood cell adhesion to arterial filters analysis by scanning electron microscopy and real-time PCR assay: observational clinical study in cardiac surgery patients.

INTRODUCTION: Arterial filter is the part of the cardiopulmonary bypass circuit where blood cells are exposed to high mechanical stress and where cellular aggregates may fasten in large quantities. The aim of this study was to analyse blood cell adhesiveness in the arterial filter through scanning electron microscopy and real-time PCR assay. METHODS: Prospective, clinical and observational study performed on 28 patients undergoing cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass. Arterial filters were analysed by scanning electron microscopy. Real-time PCR assay was performed in extracted material from the arterial filters for analysis of platelet GPIb and CD45 leucocyte gene expression. Blood coagulation was analysed during cardiopulmonary bypass. Patients were followed until hospital discharge or 28 days after surgery. RESULTS: All studied arterial filters used in the subject patients showed a degree of adhesion from blood elements at scanning electron microscopy. All studied filters were positive for platelets GPIb gene expression and 15% had CD45 leucocyte gene expression. The GPIb platelet gene expression in blood lowered at the end of cardiopulmonary bypass (p = 0.019). There was negative correlation between blood GPIb platelet gene expression and Clot SR (HEPSCREEN2 ReoRox®) (rho = 0.635; p = 0.027). The filter fields count was correlated to the D-dimer dosage (rho = 0.828; p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: There was adhesion of blood elements, especially nucleated platelets, on all arterial filters studied. Although the arterial filter worked as a safety device, that possibly prevented arterial embolisation, it may also have caused greater hyperfibrinolysis during cardiopulmonary bypass.

Microbiological and microstructural analysis of indwelling bladder catheters and urinary tract infection prevention / Análisis microbiológico y microestructural de sondas vesicales permanentes y prevención de infecciones del tracto urinario / Análise microbiológica e microestrutural dos cateteres vesicais de demora e prevenção de infecção do trato urinário

ABSTRACT Objective: To analyze the microbiological and microstructural part of indwelling urinary catheters and their association with urinary tract infection prevention. Method: This is a cross-sectional study, from June to December 2020, in which 42 indwelling urinary catheter tips and sterile urine samples were collected for analysis of crystals in optical microscopy and biofilms in scanning electron microscopy. Culture analysis and specification of the type of bacteria were performed. Results: It was found that 35.71% of the samples had mature biofilm adhered to the catheter tip. Biofilms of Proteus mirabilis, Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Enterococcus faecium and Enterobacter cloacae stood out. The presence of magnesium-ammonium-phosphate crystal was associated with the presence of urinary tract infection and with Proteus mirabilis. There was a significant association (p = 0.001) between the use of prophylactic antibiotics versus urine culture >105 CFU/mL. Conclusion: The analyzes contributed to clinical practice, as it reinforces the development of effective and monitored strategies on cultures and urinary tract infection prevention associated with indwelling urinary catheters.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Analizar la parte microbiológica y microestructural de los catéteres urinarios permanentes y su asociación con la prevención de la infección del tracto urinario. Método: Transversal, de junio a diciembre de 2020, en el que se recolectaron 42 puntas de sonda urinaria permanente y muestras de orina estéril para análisis de cristales en microscopía óptica y biopelículas en microscopía electrónica de barrido. Se realizaron análisis de cultivo y especificación del tipo de bacteria. Resultados: Se encontró que el 35,71% de las muestras presentaban biopelícula madura adherida a la punta del catéter. Se destacaron las biopelículas de Proteus mirabilis, Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Enterococcus faecium y Enterobacter cloacae. La presencia de cristales de fosfato de magnesio-amonio se asoció con la presencia de infección del tracto urinario y con Proteus mirabilis. Hubo una asociación significativa (p = 0,001) entre el uso de antibióticos profilácticos versus urocultivo >105 UFC/mL. Conclusión: Los análisis contribuyeron a la práctica clínica, ya que refuerzan el desarrollo de estrategias efectivas y monitoreadas sobre cultivos y prevención de la infección del tracto urinario asociada a los catéteres urinarios permanentes.

RESUMO Objetivo: Analisar a parte microbiológica e microestrutural dos cateteres vesicais de demora e sua associação com a prevenção de infecção do trato urinário. Método: Transversal, entre junho e dezembro de 2020, em que foram coletadas 42 pontas cateteres vesicais de demora e amostras de urina estéril para análise de cristais em microscopia óptica e de biofilmes em microscopia eletrônica de varredura. Fez-se analise de cultura e especificação do tipo de bactérias. Resultados: Verificou-se que 35,71% das amostras apresentaram o biofilme maduro aderido à ponta do cateter. Destacaram-se biofilmes de Proteus mirabilis, Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Enterococcus faecium e Enterobacter cloacae. A presença do cristal magnésio-amônio-fosfato foi associada à presença de infecção do trato urinário e ao Proteus mirabilis. Verificou-se associação significativa (p = 0,001) entre o uso de antibiótico profilático versus a urocultura >105 UFC/mL. Conclusão: As análises contribuíram para a prática clínica, pois reforçam a elaboração de estratégias efetivas e monitoradas sobre culturas e prevenção de infecção do trato urinário associada ao cateter vesical de demora.

Heat-treated NiTi instruments and final irrigation protocols for biomechanical preparation of flattened canals

Abstract This study evaluate shaping ability of heat-treated NiTi-alloy instruments associated with different final irrigation protocols in flattened root canals. Thirty human mandibular incisors with flattened root canals were divided into 5 groups (n = 10): (XP) Original Protocol XP-endo Shaper; (XP-WT) Original Protocol XP-endo Shaper with working time variation; (XP-K) XP-endo Shaper with kinematics variation; (XP-WTK) XP-endo Shaper with kinematics and working time variations; (Hyflex) Hyflex CM. For the variation in working time protocols the same sample of the XP-endo Shaper groups with and without kinematic variation were used. To evaluate final irrigation protocols, groups 1, 3 and 5 were submitted to 3 protocols: (NI) No irrigation (n = 2); (CI) conventional irrigation (n = 4), and (EndoVac) irrigation (n = 4). The samples were scanned by microcomputed tomography and prepared for scanning electron microscopy evaluation. Quantitative data were evaluated using the parametric ANOVA test, with statistical significance level set at 5%, and qualitative data obtained were compared to establish the agreement between examiners through the Kappa test. It was observed that in the analysis of XP-endo Shaper protocols, the additional working time did not cause difference in any of parameters evaluated (p > 0.05) in relation to time recommended by manufacturer. Compared to Hyflex, XP-K showed highest mean volume increase (p < 0.05) and lowest percentage of untouched walls (p < 0.05). In the qualitative evaluation, final irrigation protocol with EndoVac provided the best cleaning results when associated with XP-K and with Hyflex. Thus, supplementary techniques are effective tools to enhance cleaning and to promote higher touch of walls during root canal preparation.

Marginal misfit of heat-pressed milled wax-pattern and CAD/CAM crowns and its effect on stress distribution in implant-supported rehabilitations

Aim: To compare the marginal fit of lithium disilicate CAD/CAM crowns and heat-pressed crowns fabricated using milled wax patterns, and evaluate its effect on stress distribution in implantsupported rehabilitation. Methods: A CAD model of a mandibular first molar was designed, and 16 lithium disilicate crowns (8/group) were obtained. The crown-prosthetic abutment set was evaluated in a scanning electron microscopy. The mean misfit for each group was recorded and evaluated using Student's t-test. For in silico analysis, a virtual cement thickness was designed for the two misfit values found previously, and the CAD model was assembled on an implant-abutment set. A load of 100 N was applied at 30° on the central fossa, and the equivalent stress was calculated for the crown, titanium components, bone, and resin cement layer. Results: The CAD/CAM group presented a significantly (p=0.0068) higher misfit (64.99±18.73 µm) than the heat-pressed group (37.64±15.66 µm). In silico results showed that the heat-pressed group presented a decrease in stress concentration of 61% in the crown and 21% in the cement. In addition, a decrease of 14.5% and an increase of 7.8% in the stress for the prosthetic abutment and implant, respectively, was recorded. For the cortical and cancellous bone, a slight increase in stress occurred with an increase in the cement layer thickness of 5.9% and 5.7%, respectively. Conclusion: The milling of wax patterns for subsequent inclusion and obtaining heat-pressed crowns is an option to obtain restorations with an excellent marginal fit and better stress distribution throughout the implant-abutment set

Ultrastructural aspects of the skin in lipoid proteinosis (Urbach-Wiethe disease).

Lipoid proteinosis is a rare autosomal recessive disease, characterized by hyaline deposits of PAS-positive material in tissues due to mutations in the ECM1 gene. This study evaluated the ultrastructure of the skin of a 6-year-old child affected by this condition. The light microscopy identified PAS-positive hyaline deposits, which were more intense in the papillary dermis. Scanning electron microscopy of the dermis showed a compact papillary dermis and fibrillar deposits in the middle dermis. Transmission electron microscopy clearly showed the deposition of fibrillar material in the dermis, forming clusters adherent to elastic fibers, between the collagen bundles and the collagen fibers, and also filling up the cytoplasm of dermal fibroblasts.

Transmission and scanning electron microscopy of cutis rhomboidalis

Abstract Cutis rhomboidalis nuchae was assessed in a 65-year-old patient. Optical microscopy showed basophilic agglomerations in the reticular dermis with decreased elastic fibers. Trans- mission electron microscopy showed elongated, curved and fragmented structures, and in their interior the presence of electron-dense lumps was reduced and irregular, similar to modified elastic fibers, whereas the collagen fibers had a normal aspect. Scanning electron microscopy showed deposits between the bundles of collagen, resembling pebbles or stones. These findings demonstrate that, at one stage of the disease, the collagen remains normal and the alterations are seen in the elastic tissue.

Transmission and scanning electron microscopy of cutis rhomboidalis.

Cutis rhomboidalis nuchae was assessed in a 65-year-old patient. Optical microscopy showed basophilic agglomerations in the reticular dermis with decreased elastic fibers. Transmission electron microscopy showed elongated, curved and fragmented structures, and in their interior the presence of electron-dense lumps was reduced and irregular, similar to modified elastic fibers, whereas the collagen fibers had a normal aspect. Scanning electron microscopy showed deposits between the bundles of collagen, resembling pebbles or stones. These findings demonstrate that, at one stage of the disease, the collagen remains normal and the alterations are seen in the elastic tissue.

[Ultrastructural study of ampulla of mouse inner ear].

Objective: To observe the ultrastructure of the ampulla, and analyze its physiological and pathological significance. Methods: In this study, 20 Kunming mice were used, and scanning electron microscopy was used to observe the ultrastructure of the ampulla of inner ear. Results: Otoconia was found among the cilia bundles of different haircell(intercilla otoconia of ampulla). The cupula was attached to the lateral wall of the ampulla, and easily to be separated; after separated, a kind of slender crystal(surface otoconia of ampulla) could be seen between the cupula and lateral wall of the ampulla, both sides of ampullary crest were covered with slender crystals too. On the canal side of the ampulla wall, there was more particulate matter attached to the wall near the bottom of ampullary crest, partially embedded in the wall, and less on the utricle side of the ampulla wall. Conclusions: The observation of the ultrastructure of the ampulla is helpful for better understanding the physiological functions of the semicircular canals and the ampulla, and better understanding the pathogenesis and solution of some vertigo diseases.

Study of Nanofibrils Formation of Fibroin Protein in Specific Thermal and Acidity Conditions.

BACKGROUND: Amyloid fibrils are insoluble arranged aggregates of proteins that are fibrillar in structure and related to many diseases (at least 20 types of illnesses) and also create many pathologic conditions. Therefore understanding the circumstance of fibril formation is very important. OBJECTIVES: This study aims to work on fibrillar structure formation of fibroin (as a model protein). MATERIAL AND METHODS: In this experimental study, fibroin was extracted from bombyx mori silk cocoon, and the concentration was obtained by Bradford method. The protein was incubated in a wide range of times (0 min to 7 days) in specific acidity and thermal conditions (pH=1.6, T=70 °C). The assays of UV-vis spectroscopy with congo red, field emission scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy and circular dichroism spectroscopy were employed to monitor the fibrillation process. RESULTS: Fibroin assemblies were formed upon the process of aggregation and fibril formation with a variety of morphology ranging from nanoparticles to elongated fibrils. CONCLUSION: The results showed progressive pathway of fibril formation.

Influence of Chlorhexidine Gluconate on the Immediate Bond Strength of a Universal Adhesive System on Dentine Subjected to Different Bonding Protocols: An In Vitro Pilot Study.

PURPOSE: The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the influence of preapplication of 2% chlorhexidine gluconate on the immediate microtensile bond strength of a universal adhesive system on dentine subjected to different bonding protocols. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty human molars were used in this study, and the tooth surface was abraded to expose the dentine. The teeth were randomly divided into four groups according to the surface treatment (n = 5): SBU group: Single Bond Universal without acid etching; SBUPA group: 37% phosphoric acid + Single Bond Universal; SBUCG group: 2% chlorhexidine gluconate + Single Bond Universal; and SBUPACG group: 37% phosphoric acid + 2% chlorhexidine gluconate + Single Bond Universal. The microtensile bond strengths were measured using a microtensile tester 24 h after bonding. The bond strength data were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Sheffé's least statistically significant difference test (α = 0.05). RESULTS: No statistically significant differences between the analysed groups were observed (p > 0.05). However, conditioning with phosphoric acid without the action of the chlorhexidine gluconate group resulted in higher numerical values of bond strengths than that for the chlorhexidine gluconate without the acid conditioning group. CONCLUSION: The preapplication of 2% chlorhexidine gluconate did not reduce the immediate bond strength of the Single Bond Universal adhesive system under different bonding protocols.

Quantitative Assessment of Dentinal Tubule Disinfection in Absence of Biofilm on Root Canal Walls: An in vitro Study.

Introduction: This study aimed at assessing the quantitative effect of calcium hydroxide, 2% chlorhexidine gel, and 1.5% chlorhexidine linked to xanthan gel specifically against intratubular bacteria. Methods and Materials: Fifty-two semi-cylindrical bovine dentin specimens were infected with Enterococcus (E.) faecalis by centrifugation with subsequent 7-days incubation. The surface of specimens was disinfected with 3% H2O2. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and the count of bacterial colony-forming units (CFU/mg) were used to assess dentin infection. A total of 40 specimens were incubated for 2 weeks with one of the intracanal medication applied (10 samples for each group): 1) calcium hydroxide, 2) 2% chlorhexidine gel, 3) 1.5% chlorhexidine linked to xanthan gel and 4) sterile saline. Final passive ultrasonic irrigation with 3% sodium hypochlorite was performed in half of the total specimens. The effect of intracanal medications and irrigation against intratubular bacteria was assessed by bacterial culturing of dentin shavings. Two-Way ANOVA model was applied followed by post-hoc Tukey's test for multiple pair-wise comparisons of mean CFU/mg values. Results: SEM, CLSM, and bacterial culturing confirmed the absence of the surface biofilm on the root canal wall and showed vital intratubular bacteria at the depth up to 700  m. Two-week application of 1.5% chlorhexidine with xanthan gel and 2% chlorhexidine gel significantly decreased intratubular bacterial counts compared with saline (P=0.0003 and P=0.0005, respectively). Subsequent passive ultrasonic irrigation with 3% sodium hypochlorite significantly reduced the number of intratubular bacteria in all groups except for the group with 1.5% chlorhexidine-xanthan gel (P=0.0054). Conclusion: This modified ex vivo model study showed ultrasonically activated irrigation with sodium hypochlorite had greater effect on intratubular bacteria counts compared with 2-week application of intracanal medications.

Bactericidal and Smear Layer Removal Efficacy of Herbal Alternatives Against Enterococcus Faecalis Dentinal Biofilm - An ex-vivo Study

Abstract Objective: To assess the antibacterial and smear layer removal ability of Trigonella foenum, Syzygium cumini, Terminalia chebula seed extracts against E. faecalis dentinal biofilm. Material and Methods: Agar well diffusion, micro broth dilution assay and time-kill curve assay were performed to determine the antibacterial activity. The ability of the herbal extracts to remove the smear layer on the root canal surface was assessed by scanning electron microscopy. Results: Antibacterial activity was observed for the extracts of S. cumini and T. chebula on E. faecalis dentinal biofilm and its planktonic counterparts. The smear layer was efficiently removed by the seed extracts of T. chebula alone. Seed extracts of T. foenum neither possessed antibacterial effect nor smear layer removal ability. Conclusion: The extracts of T. chebula seeds may replace conventional irrigant due to its antibacterial properties and smear layer removing the ability. The extracts of S. cumini may be used as an intracanal medicament as it exhibited a bactericidal effect against the E. faecalis dentinal biofilm following 18 hours of incubation.