Fish scale-derived hydroxyapatite for alveolar ridge preservation.

Alveolar ridge resorption following tooth extraction poses significant challenges for future dental restorations. This study investigated the efficacy of fish scale-derived hydroxyapatite (FSHA) as a socket preservation graft material to maintain alveolar bone volume and architecture. FSHA was extracted from *Labeo rohita* fish scales and characterized using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis. In vitro, biocompatibility and osteogenic potential were assessed using Saos-2 human osteosarcoma cells. Cell viability, migration, and proliferation were evaluated using MTT and scratch assays. In vivo performance was assessed in a rat model, and FSHA was compared to a commercial xenograft (Osseograft) and ungrafted controls. Histological analysis was performed at 8-week post-implantation to quantify new bone formation. FTIR confirmed the purity and homogeneity of FSHA. In vitro, FSHA enhanced Saos-2 viability, migration, and proliferation compared to controls. In vivo, FSHA demonstrated superior bone regeneration compared to Osseograft and ungrafted sites, with balanced graft resorption and new bone formation. Histological analysis revealed an active incorporation of FSHA into new bone, with minimal gaps and ongoing remodeling. Approximately 50%-60% of FSHA was resorbed by 8 weeks, closely matching the rate of new bone deposition. FSHA stimulated more bone formation in the apical socket region than in coronal areas. In conclusion, FSHA is a promising biomaterial for alveolar ridge preservation, exhibiting excellent biocompatibility, osteogenic potential, and balanced resorption. Its ability to promote robust bone regeneration highlights its potential as an effective alternative to currently used graft materials in socket preservation procedures.

Supramolecular Interactions-Assisted Polymorphism and Unique Mechanofluorochromism in 9,10-Bis((E)-4-(trifluoromethyl)styryl)anthracene.

A fluorinated distyrylanthracene (DSA) derivative, 9, 10-bis((E)-4-(trifluoromethyl)styryl)anthracene abbreviated as 4FDSA with two crystalline polymorphs (4FDSA-G (green emission) and 4FDSA-O (orange emission)), showing remarkable aggregation-induced enhanced emission and mechanofluorochromic characteristics, was developed. One of the polymorphs in its crystalline arrangement exhibits the hardly seen F…F interactions. It questions the conventional belief of the non-polarisable nature of fluorine atoms in forming the halogen bond. The twisted molecular conformation facilitated by the various supramolecular interactions resulted in the formation of another intensely emissive bluer nanocrystal (4FDSA-NC) at aggregating conditions. Even though, the both polymorphs show distinct tricolor luminescence switching on the action of mechanical force, fumigation of ground crystals with solvent vapor resulted in the formation of a more thermodynamically favorable 4FDSA-NC form. The work demonstrates the effect of supramolecular interactions assisted conformational changes in tuning the unique mechanofluorochromic characteristics of the polymorphic crystals.

Prevalence and radiological characteristics of palatogingival groove: A retrospective cone-beam computed tomography study in an Indian cohort.

Aim: This study aims to investigate the prevalence of palatogingival groove (PG) in anterior maxillary teeth in an Indian cohort using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans. Study Design: Retrospective study. Materials and Methods: Analysis of 119 CBCT scans (64 males, 55 females, and mean age 31.6 ± 13.5 years) was performed. The data of 636 anterior maxillary teeth (220 canine, 212 lateral incisor, and 204 central incisor teeth) were studied for PG's presence. Demographic details of patients and characteristics of PG, i.e., location, extension, depth, and type were recorded. Results: Out of the 636 anterior maxillary teeth studied, PGs were detected in 12 (1.88%) teeth (3 [1.47%] central incisors, 9 [4.2%] lateral incisors, and 0 canines). All the teeth were categorized as having either type I (Seven teeth) or type II (Five teeth) radicular groove. Two of the 12 PGs were present in the mesial, six in the mid-palatal, and four were present in the distal portion of the palatal surface of the teeth. Conclusions: The prevalence of PG in maxillary incisors in this Indian cohort is 2.88%. Maxillary lateral incisors are the most affected teeth.

Elevated beta human chorionic gonadotropin in a non-pregnant female diagnosed with anal squamous cell carcinoma.

INTRODUCTION: Elevated serum beta human chorionic gonadotrophin (ß-hCG) in a female normally indicates pregnancy or possibly, gestational trophoblastic disease or ovarian germ cell tumours. Expression of ß-hCG has been demonstrated in cervical and endometrial carcinoma and other non-germ cell tumours of the ovary, vulva, breast, prostate, lung, colon, oral/facial tissue and stomach. CASE REPORT: We report a 43-year-old premenopausal woman with p16 positive squamous cell anal cancer. Pre-treatment urinary screening was positive for ß-hCG (218 IU/L), which was confirmed on serum and expressed in the tumour. Pelvic ultrasound ruled out pregnancy. Cervical cytology detected human papilloma virus p16 infection and a potential squamous intraepithelial lesion. Management and outcome: She received definitive chemoradiation (Mitomycin/5-fluorouracil) for six weeks. ß-hCG, taken four weeks post completion, had returned to normal levels (<2 IU/L). DISCUSSION: Cases of elevated serum ß-hCG are documented in different cancers including breast, gastric, lung, ovarian and renal cell. In our case, the elevated ß-hCG is probably ectopic excretion by the squamous cell carcinoma tumour in the anus. While this has never been reported previously in the anus, it is likely due to the documented risk of development of precancerous as well as cancerous anal and cervical lesions through human papilloma virus infection. Raised levels of ß-hCG have been reported in cervical cancers. Other possible causes of ß-hCG elevation were excluded. Following treatment, her ß-hCG level returned to normal strengthening the hypothesis that ß-hCG elevation was due to the anal carcinoma. In conclusion, unexplained ectopic secretion of ß-hCG may be the first sign of a primary malignancy.

Autologous emulsified fat injection for rejuvenation of scars: A prospective observational study.

BACKGROUND: The skin rejuvenation potential of the autologous emulsified nanofat was studied by Tonnard et al. in 2013. This property is due to the viable adipose-derived stem cells present in the nanofat; although, there are no viable adipocytes. The aim of this study was to determine the aesthetic outcome of autologous emulsified nanofat injection in scars using a standardised and validated Patient Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS) and photographs. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 34 patients with scars of varied aetiologies were included in the study as per inclusion criteria. Pre-operative scoring of the scars with the POSAS scale was done, and photographs were taken. Fat aspiration was done from the lower abdominal wall using syringe liposuction under tumescent anaesthesia. The lipoaspirate was mechanically emulsified, filtered and injected intralesionally into the scar using 26G needle and insulin syringe. Post-operative scar reassessment was done at 3 months with the POSAS scale score and photographs. The improvement in scar characteristics and symptoms were tested statistically using a paired t-test. Pre-operative and post-operative photographic comparison was also done. RESULTS: Out of the 34 patients included in the study, male:female ratio was 22:12. Majority (79.4%) had post-traumatic facial scars. On statistical analysis, there was statistically significant improvement in symptoms such as pain (P = 0.001), itching (P = 0.001), stiffness (P = 0.001), thickness (P = 0.001), colour (P = 0.001), irregularity (P = 0.001) and scar characteristics such as vascularity (P = 0.005), relief (P = 0.001), pliability (P = 0.001), thickness (P = 0.001) and pigmentation (P = 0.001) 3 months after injection. The photographic comparison also showed good aesthetic outcome. CONCLUSION: Autologous emulsified nanofat injection is effective in improving the scar characteristics as well as symptoms and helps in scar rejuvenation.

Treatment Outcome Following Direct Pulp Capping Using Bioceramic Materials in Mature Permanent Teeth with Carious Exposure: A Pilot Retrospective Study.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to investigate the sequelae of direct pulp capping (DPC) using mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) and Biodentine in mature permanent teeth with carious exposure. METHODS: Clinical records of 30 patients (15 each with MTA and Biodentine) treated with DPC technique from January 2015 to June 2015 were retrieved. Success rates (based on symptoms, sensibility tests, and radiographic analysis) and adverse events were analyzed. RESULTS: The patients were reviewed at 1, 3, 6, 12, and 18 months after treatment. Four cases (2 each of MTA and Biodentine) were lost to follow-up. MTA and Biodentine groups showed success rates of 84.6% and 92.3%, respectively, with overall success rate of 88.5%. Radiographically visible dentin bridge formation was observed in 69.2% (9/13) and 61.5% (8/13) of cases done with MTA and Biodentine, respectively. The cases done with MTA showed coronal discoloration on review. Diffuse calcifications of the pulp chamber were observed in 1 (7.7%) case done with MTA and 3 (23.1%) cases done with Biodentine. CONCLUSIONS: The advent of bioceramic materials with better biocompatibility and sealing properties can make the outcome of DPC technique in mature permanent teeth with carious exposure more predictable. The success rate observed in this study should be confirmed through randomized controlled trials with long follow-up periods. Effects of adverse events like coronal discoloration and calcifications of the pulp chamber also need to be evaluated.

Zero-Dimensional Methylammonium Bismuth Iodide-Based Lead-Free Perovskite Capacitor.

Symmetrical electrochemical capacitors are attracting immense attention because of their fast charging-discharging ability, high energy density, and low cost of production. The current research in this area is mainly focused on exploring novel low-cost electrode materials with higher energy and power densities. In the present work, we fabricated an electrochemical double-layer capacitor using methylammonium bismuth iodide (CH3NH3)3Bi2I9, a lead-free, zero-dimensional hybrid perovskite material. A maximum areal capacitance of 5.5 mF/cm2 was obtained, and the device retained 84.8% of its initial maximum capacitance even after 10 000 charge-discharge cycles. Impedance spectroscopy measurements revealed that the active layer provides a high surface area for the electrolyte to access. As a result, the charge transport resistance is reasonably low, which is advantageous for delivering excellent performance.

Trivandrum Developmental Screening Chart.

The Trivandrum Developmental Screening Chart (TDSC) was designed by selecting 17 test items from BSID (Baroda Norms). It was validated both at the hospital and community level against the standard DDST. TDSC had a sensitivity of 66.7% and specificity of 78.8%, which makes it an acceptable simple screening tool even for the community level worker.