Olfactory-trigeminal integration in the primary olfactory cortex.

Humans naturally integrate signals from the olfactory and intranasal trigeminal systems. A tight interplay has been demonstrated between these two systems, and yet the neural circuitry mediating olfactory-trigeminal (OT) integration remains poorly understood. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), combined with psychophysics, this study investigated the neural mechanisms underlying OT integration. Fifteen participants with normal olfactory function performed a localization task with air-puff stimuli, phenylethyl alcohol (PEA; rose odor), or a combination thereof while being scanned. The ability to localize PEA to either nostril was at chance. Yet, its presence significantly improved the localization accuracy of weak, but not strong, air-puffs, when both stimuli were delivered concurrently to the same nostril, but not when different nostrils received the two stimuli. This enhancement in localization accuracy, exemplifying the principles of spatial coincidence and inverse effectiveness in multisensory integration, was associated with multisensory integrative activity in the primary olfactory (POC), orbitofrontal (OFC), superior temporal (STC), inferior parietal (IPC) and cingulate cortices, and in the cerebellum. Multisensory enhancement in most of these regions correlated with behavioral multisensory enhancement, as did increases in connectivity between some of these regions. We interpret these findings as indicating that the POC is part of a distributed brain network mediating integration between the olfactory and trigeminal systems. PRACTITIONER POINTS: Psychophysical and neuroimaging study of olfactory-trigeminal (OT) integration. Behavior, cortical activity, and network connectivity show OT integration. OT integration obeys principles of inverse effectiveness and spatial coincidence. Behavioral and neural measures of OT integration are correlated.

Basal Implant Placement in the Anterior Aesthetic Zone: A Case Report.

Aesthetics are one of the primary goals of restorative care. Teeth that are traumatized in the anterior maxilla usually avulse or require extraction due to fractures. Rehabilitation is challenging in such a therapeutic state since it presents several anatomical and aesthetic issues. There are circumstances in which traditional implant placement is problematic. There must be enough bone for implant placement to be uneventful and successful. Other surgical therapies may be necessary in addition to implant placement for certain operations, such as extensive grafting, direct or indirect sinus lifts, and nerve lateralization. Certain procedures are required for these operations but are not always achievable. Because single-piece basal implants provide immediate temporization and loading while receiving adequate anchoring from the basal cortical bone, they have been extensively used to rehabilitate resorbed ridges. This case report demonstrates the placement of the basal implant in the anterior zone.

Using Laser Therapy and Topical Ozone as an Effective Intervention to Revolutionize Denture Stomatitis Treatment: A Case Report.

In dentistry, denture stomatitis (DS), a frequent inflammatory illness of the oral mucosa mostly related to denture wearing, is a major concern. DS is a common oral mycotic infection for those who wear partial or total dentures. The most often found species of Candida that may be isolated from both healthy and diseased oral tissues is Candida albicans. DS is associated with uneven denture surfaces, inadequate oral hygiene, or ill-fitting dentures. The diagnosis and management of DS in a 72-year-old male patient is presented in this case study. The patient complained about burning in his palate and having difficulty chewing. Upon clinical examination, erythema and inflammation were seen in the palate region. The history and clinical findings were consistent with DS. The patient was told to completely stop using dentures. Interventions were included in the treatment plan, such as diode laser therapy, topical ozonated oil application, and teaching about denture hygiene. The third day's follow-up visit revealed a progressive healing of the lesions and symptom relief. The lesion fully resolved on the sixth day. This case emphasizes the value of all-encompassing management techniques in treating DS successfully. It also highlights the significance of patient education, good oral hygiene, and focused therapy in producing favorable results.

Anterior Palatal Radicular Cyst: A Case Report.

The most prevalent kind of odontogenic cysts is radicular cysts, which usually develop from the epithelial remnants in the periodontal ligament as a result of inflammation that follows pulp necrosis. We report a case of a 49-year-old male patient who complained of painless swelling in the maxillary anterior region, which turned out to be a radicular cyst. Upon clinical examination, a soft, nontender swelling that fluctuated was found. A periapical lesion was found upon radiographic assessment. A radicular cyst was tentatively diagnosed based on clinical and radiological features. The treatment plan included enucleation, restoration of the defect with bone graft, and endodontic therapy with antibiotics. Endodontic therapy was administered after the cystic lesion was surgically removed. The diagnosis of a radicular cyst was validated by histopathological analysis. The significance of a multidisciplinary approach for the successful management of radicular cysts is emphasized in this case report, which also underscores the need for a comprehensive clinical and radiographic evaluation for accurate diagnosis. Prompt identification and suitable intervention are essential to avert possible complications and guarantee successful treatment results.

Chronic Traumatic Ulcer: A Case Report.

Chronic traumatic ulcers (CTUs) of the oral cavity are frequently brought on by repeated mechanical stress, such as biting or friction from dental appliances, or sharp or broken carious teeth. Although they are frequently disregarded, patients with nonhealing ulcers in the mouth should have CTUs taken into consideration. This report highlights the significance of differential diagnosis and suitable treatment options by discussing a case of a CTU that persisted on the tongue's right lateral border.

BRET-based biosensors for SARS-CoV-2 oligonucleotide detection.

The need for the early detection of emerging pathogenic viruses and their newer variants has driven the urgent demand for developing point-of-care diagnostic tools. Although nucleic acid-based methods such as reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) have been developed, a more facile and robust platform is still required. To address this need, as a proof-of-principle study, we engineered a prototype-the versatile, sensitive, rapid, and cost-effective bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET)-based biosensor for oligonucleotide detection (BioOD). Specifically, we designed BioODs against the SARS-CoV-2 parental (Wuhan strain) and B.1.617.2 Delta variant through the conjugation of specific, fluorescently modified molecular beacons (sensor module) through a complementary oligonucleotide handle DNA functionalized with the NanoLuc (NLuc) luciferase protein such that the dissolution of the molecular beacon loop upon the binding of the viral oligonucleotide will result in a decrease in BRET efficiency and, thus, a change in the bioluminescence spectra. Following the assembly of the BioODs, we determined their kinetics response, affinity for variant-specific oligonucleotides, and specificity, and found them to be rapid and highly specific. Furthermore, the decrease in BRET efficiency of the BioODs in the presence of viral oligonucleotides can be detected as a change in color in cell phone camera images. We envisage that the BioODs developed here will find application in detecting viral infections with variant specificity in a point-of-care-testing format, thus aiding in large-scale viral infection surveillance.

Anterior Esthetic Rehabilitation with Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing Zirconia: A Case Report.

In layered zirconia prosthesis, the choice of zirconia composition, framework design, and shade is closely related to the properties of the abutments. This interdependence emphasizes how crucial it is to take a deliberate and tailored approach to meet the unique needs of every therapeutic circumstance. To successfully treat anterior teeth and achieve restorations that look natural, challenges such as incorrect size and shape, atypical gingival contour, and unsightly hues need to be resolved. Ceramodetal restorations have occasionally allowed for the most appealing, authentic replication of natural teeth, despite its proven strength, endurance, and improved aesthetics. Due to their superior cosmetic results, metal-free materials have been used for anterior rehabilitation. Materials like dental zirconia, which offers excellent aesthetics and desired mechanical characteristics, have emerged in response to the increased need for visually appealing and metal-free alternatives. In this case study context, experiences in the clinic using multilayer zirconia prostheses intended exclusively for anterior teeth are discussed.

Assessing the Adherence to Safety Protocol Among Personnel Working in the Dental Radiology Department: A Qualitative Cross-Sectional Study.

BACKGROUND: Implementing recommended radiation safety protocols in the radiology departments is crucial for the safety of the working personnel, patients, and environment. Similarly, adherence and continuous monitoring are essential, and few studies have been conducted in dental radiology settings regarding the occupational safety of employees. Hence, the present study was carried out to assess the knowledge and adherence of personnel to safety protocol in the dental radiology department. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The questionnaire-based study was conducted in a dental institute involving the relevant staff and students, consisting of 25 participants including radiographers (a technician, faculty, and postgraduates) and auxiliary staff. The 14-element questionnaire with questions on radiation exposure, hazards, safety protocols, protective devices, and infrastructure was given to study participants, and data was obtained. RESULTS: Overall, the responses to the questionnaire were favorable in terms of awareness or knowledge of participants about radiation protection and protection devices. Notably, 71.4 % (15) of the participants agreed that they consistently wear PPDs, and 86.5% (18) agreed that the radiology operatory is well-equipped concerning radiation safety measures. On the whole, the responses to the questionnaire were encouraging from the auxiliary staff in terms of radiation protection awareness. CONCLUSION: The perception of study participants provides valuable insight to enhance the adherence to radiation safety protocol in the institutes. The study demonstrated that most participants revealed adequate knowledge of radiation exposure hazards, the need for personnel protection, and adherence to radiation safety protocol. This study would serve as the pilot project and may provide a platform for further multicenter studies to be carried out.

Median Rhomboid Glossitis: A Case Study.

A smooth, red, oval, or rhomboid patch on the dorsal midline is the classic presentation of median rhomboid glossitis (MRG), a rare and benign lesion of the tongue. MRG is still not fully understood, which presents diagnostic hurdles and calls for additional clinical investigation. It is frequently associated with candidal infections. We describe a case of a 42-year-old man who initially appeared to have either mechanical irritation or thermal injury related to a painless patch on the dorsum surface of the tongue. We document a case of MRG that was consulted for a standard dental examination in this case report. This article also highlights a dentist's need to identify the lesion and provide appropriate education for the patient.

Conventional Frenectomy With Topical Ozonated Oil Application.

The frenum is a mucous membrane fold that connects the lip and cheek to the gingiva, periosteum, and alveolar mucosa. When the frena are linked too closely to the gingival border, there may be issues with plaque removal, and the overall gingiva may be affected. In addition, the maxillary frenum may provide aesthetic difficulties or interfere with the aesthetic outcome in cases of midline diastema, which may result in a recurrence after treatment. A labial frenectomy, a frequently performed surgical operation in the specialty of dentistry, is used to address such an abnormal frenum. This article describes a case study of a maxillary labial frenectomy using a traditional scalpel approach and topical application of ozonated olive oil.

Pyogenic Granuloma in the Mandibular Anterior Gingiva: A Case Study.

The oral cavity is frequently affected by gingival pyogenic granuloma (PG), a benign tumor that is known for its quick growth and tendency to hemorrhage. The clinical presentation, diagnostic procedure, and treatment of a patient with gingival pyogenic granuloma are all detailed in this case study. A female individual aged 25 years in otherwise good condition arrived with a sessile gingival tumor in the anterior mandibular region that was expanding quickly. During dental hygiene procedures, there was intermittent bleeding and discomfort related to the lesion. Based on histology analysis and clinical examination, PG was diagnosed. The course of treatment included surgical excision followed by a histological analysis to ensure total eradication. Appointments for follow-up revealed adequate healing and no indications of recurrence. This case study aims to demonstrate the need for prompt diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and diligent follow-up to effectively manage gingival pyogenic granuloma. Dental professionals can better treat patients and achieve better results with a thorough understanding of this common oral lesion and its management.

Rehabilitating Long Edentulous Span by Using Pier Abutment as a Non-rigid Connector: A Case Report.

An abutment having edentulous space on both sides is referred to as a pier abutment. The rehabilitation of a patient whose primary concern when they first came to the hospital was missing teeth is discussed in this case report. When using a pier abutment for a fixed dental prosthesis, there is a problem with fulcrum and torqueing pressures at the intermediate abutment. Forces on the pier abutment may become localized as a result of using a rigid connector. It has been suggested that non-rigid connectors be used to overcome this. Here, using a non-rigid connector as a stress breaker resulted in less stress being placed on the prosthetic assembly and abutment. This article offers a clinical case report that details the use of a non-rigid connector in a pier abutment scenario for rehabilitation.

Structural insights into the unique recognition module between α-synuclein peptide and nanobody.

Nanobodies are single-domain fragments of antibodies with comparable specificity and affinity to antibodies. They are emerging as versatile tools in biology due to their relatively small size. Here, we report the crystal structure of a specific nanobody Nbα-syn01, bound to a 14 amino acid long peptide of α-synuclein (αSyn), a 140-residue protein whose aggregation is associated with Parkinson's disease. The complex structure exhibits a unique binding pattern where the αSyn peptide replaces the N-terminal region of nanobody. Recognition is mediated principally by extended main chain interaction of the αSyn peptide and specificity of the interaction lies in the central 48-52 region of αSyn peptide. Structure-guided truncation of Nbα-syn01 shows tighter binding to αSyn peptide and improved inhibition of α-synuclein aggregation. The structure of the truncated complex was subsequently determined and was indistinguishable to full length complex as the full-length form had no visible electron density for the N-terminal end. These findings reveal the molecular basis for a previously unobserved binding mode for nanobody recognition of α-synuclein, providing an explanation for the enhanced binding, and potential for an alternate framework for structure-based protein engineering of nanobodies to develop better diagnostic and therapeutic tools.

Tongue Hemangioma on Dorsal Surface: A Case Report.

Benign vascular tumors known as hemangiomas usually appear in early childhood and adulthood. It rarely occurs in the oral cavity and is most frequently observed in the head and neck area. Oral hemangiomas are always clinically significant and need to be diagnosed as soon as possible and treated appropriately. Because the tongue is a highly mobile muscular organ and is, therefore, more prone to trauma and associated consequences, tongue hemangiomas pose a significant risk to patients. We are presenting a case of hemangioma on the dorsal surface of the tongue in a female patient of two years of age. The case report describes the lesion's diagnostic features and available treatment options while highlighting the importance of color Doppler ultrasonography, particularly for diagnosis and treatment.

Perception of Undergraduates in the Field of Periodontology.

The dentistry specialty known as periodontology focuses on problems with the tissues that support and surround teeth. A thorough understanding of basic sciences and health care is necessary for periodontology. To ensure that the dentition has adequate form, function, esthetics, and comfort, it is essential to have a thorough understanding of the relationship between periodontal tissues and how it relates to other branches of dentistry, such as restorative dentistry, orthodontics, prosthodontics, and implants. The periodontal ligament is a soft tissue between the alveolar bone and teeth. Since the alveolar bone is the foundation for successful dental treatment, proceeding with subsequent dental procedures, including restorative dentistry, implants, and prosthetic uses, is only possible with sufficient bone support. The current review article aims to assess the perception of undergraduate students regarding periodontics and its range of practice. It also gives a general overview of the field of periodontology by outlining current practices, exploring how students perceive this branch's range of courses, and emphasizing more recent and sophisticated developments.

Potentially Fatal Ludwig's Angina: A Case Report.

Ludwig's angina is a condition that could be fatal, causing severe diffuse cellulitis bilaterally that affects the submandibular, sublingual, and submental areas. It has an acute onset and progresses rapidly. A common and potentially deadly complication is airway impairment. Prompt diagnosis and treatment planning have the opportunity to save lives. An elective tracheostomy is recommended for the patient to maintain an open airway, followed by addressing potential affected spaces due to a widespread odontogenic infection. This infection has extended to the neck, causing elevation of the ventral surface of the tongue and floor of the mouth, leading to airway obstruction and the manifestation of stridor. In the latter stages of the illness, additional attention should be paid to maintaining the airway before surgical decompression and antibiotic treatment. In advanced cases, the usual protocol of care still includes surgical drainage of the infection, judicious administration of parenteral antibiotics, and airway management. A case report's objectives are to improve clinical knowledge, facilitate better diagnosis and treatment, and add to the body of medical research by offering a thorough and educational description of a particular patient's experience with this illness.

Sialolithiasis in the Left Submandibular Gland: A Case.

The most common illness affecting the salivary glands is submandibular gland sialoliths. The size of the sialolith and the patient's clinical history mainly influence how this salivary system abnormality is treated. This diagnosis is suggested by a history of salivary gland pain or swelling, particularly during mastication. Palliative therapy combined with conservative therapies, such as the milking of the ducts, can effectively treat small and accessible stones. When a stone or stones are large and inaccessible, surgical therapy should be considered if conservative approaches have not proven to be effective. A case of sialolithiasis affecting the left submandibular salivary gland is described in this article. Under local anesthesia, sialolith was removed following the opening of the duct. The wound was closed with sutures, and the patient was advised to practice tongue exercises and to maintain good oral hygiene.

Control of TGFß signalling by ubiquitination independent function of E3 ubiquitin ligase TRIP12.

Transforming growth factor ß (TGFß) pathway is a master regulator of cell proliferation, differentiation, and death. Deregulation of TGFß signalling is well established in several human diseases including autoimmune disorders and cancer. Thus, understanding molecular pathways governing TGFß signalling may help better understand the underlying causes of some of those conditions. Here, we show that a HECT domain E3 ubiquitin ligase TRIP12 controls TGFß signalling in multiple models. Interestingly, TRIP12 control of TGFß signalling is completely independent of its E3 ubiquitin ligase activity. Instead, TRIP12 recruits SMURF2 to SMAD4, which is most likely responsible for inhibitory monoubiquitination of SMAD4, since SMAD4 monoubiquitination and its interaction with SMURF2 were dramatically downregulated in TRIP12-/- cells. Additionally, genetic inhibition of TRIP12 in human and murine cells leads to robust activation of TGFß signalling which was rescued by re-introducing wildtype TRIP12 or a catalytically inactive C1959A mutant. Importantly, TRIP12 control of TGFß signalling is evolutionary conserved. Indeed, genetic inhibition of Drosophila TRIP12 orthologue, ctrip, in gut leads to a reduced number of intestinal stem cells which was compensated by the increase in differentiated enteroendocrine cells. These effects were completely normalised in Drosophila strain where ctrip was co-inhibited together with Drosophila SMAD4 orthologue, Medea. Similarly, in murine 3D intestinal organoids, CRISPR/Cas9 mediated genetic targeting of Trip12 enhances TGFß mediated proliferation arrest and cell death. Finally, CRISPR/Cas9 mediated genetic targeting of TRIP12 in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells enhances the TGFß induced migratory capacity of these cells which was rescued to the wildtype level by re-introducing wildtype TRIP12. Our work establishes TRIP12 as an evolutionary conserved modulator of TGFß signalling in health and disease.

DNAJB3 attenuates ER stress through direct interaction with AKT.

Metabolic stress involved in several dysregulation disorders such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) results in down regulation of several heat shock proteins (HSPs) including DNAJB3. This down regulation of HSPs is associated with insulin resistance (IR) and interventions which induce the heat shock response (HSR) help to increase the insulin sensitivity. Metabolic stress leads to changes in signaling pathways through increased activation of both c-jun N-terminal kinase-1 (JNK1) and the inhibitor of κB inflammatory kinase (IKKß) which in turn leads to inactivation of insulin receptor substrates 1 and 2 (IRS-1 and IRS-2). DNAJB3 interacts with both JNK1 and IKKß kinases to mitigate metabolic stress. In addition DNAJB3 also activates the PI3K-PKB/AKT pathway through increased phosphorylation of AKT1 and its substrate AS160, a Rab GTPase-activating protein, which results in mobilization of GLUT4 transporter protein and improved glucose uptake. We show through pull down that AK T1 is an interacting partner of DNAJB3, further confirmed by isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) which quantified the avidity of AKT1 for DNAJB3. The binding interface was identified by combining protein modelling with docking of the AKT1-DNAJB3 complex. DNAJB3 is localized in the cytoplasm and ER, where it interacts directly with AKT1 and mobilizes AS160 for glucose transport. Inhibition of AKT1 resulted in loss of GLUT4 translocation activity mediated by DNAJB3 and also abolished the protective effect of DNAJB3 on tunicamycin-induced ER stress. Taken together, our findings provide evidence for a direct protein-protein interaction between DNAJB3 and AKT1 upon which DNAJB3 alleviates ER stress and promotes GLUT4 translocation.

Case Report: Masseter hypertrophy: A case and review.

Masseter muscle hypertrophy is a rare condition with no known etiology that has become more prevalent due to growing aesthetic concerns. It is distinguished by either unilaterally or bilaterally enlarged masseter muscles. Its origin is still unknown. This study discusses a clinically confirmed case of unilateral masseter muscle hypertrophy and provides an outline of the condition's etiology, prevalence, diagnosis, and course of treatment.