Impact of signal-to-noise ratio and contrast definition on the sensitivity assessment and benchmarking of fluorescence molecular imaging systems.

Significance: Standardization of fluorescence molecular imaging (FMI) is critical for ensuring quality control in guiding surgical procedures. To accurately evaluate system performance, two metrics, the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast, are widely employed. However, there is currently no consensus on how these metrics can be computed. Aim: We aim to examine the impact of SNR and contrast definitions on the performance assessment of FMI systems. Approach: We quantified the SNR and contrast of six near-infrared FMI systems by imaging a multi-parametric phantom. Based on approaches commonly used in the literature, we quantified seven SNRs and four contrast values considering different background regions and/or formulas. Then, we calculated benchmarking (BM) scores and respective rank values for each system. Results: We show that the performance assessment of an FMI system changes depending on the background locations and the applied quantification method. For a single system, the different metrics can vary up to ∼ 35 dB (SNR), ∼ 8.65 a . u . (contrast), and ∼ 0.67 a . u . (BM score). Conclusions: The definition of precise guidelines for FMI performance assessment is imperative to ensure successful clinical translation of the technology. Such guidelines can also enable quality control for the already clinically approved indocyanine green-based fluorescence image-guided surgery.

Clinical Efficacy of a Novel Titania Nanoparticle-Reinforced Bonding Agent in Reducing Post-Restorative Sensitivity: A randomized clinical trial.

Objective: To evaluate the clinical efficacy of novel titania-nanoparticle reinforced bonding agent on post-restorative sensitivity in patients. Methods: This triple-blinded, randomized clinical trial included participants (n = 60) having Class- I and II cavitations with a minimum cavity depth of 3mm at Department of Operative Dentistry & Endodontics, School of Dentistry, Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto Medical University, Islamabad from January 5, 2023, to June 20, 2023. They were randomly assigned into two groups A and B (n = 30). After informed consent, restorative intervention was accomplished using an etch-and-rinse adhesive strategy. In Group-A, titania-nanoparticle-incorporated bonding agent was used for composite restoration, while in Group-B, bonding agent without nanoparticles was used. The primary outcome was assessed using Visual Analogue Scale mean score. Participants were instructed to rate their sensitivity status at follow-ups: 24 hours, one week, and one month. Mann-Whitney U test was employed to compare sensitivity between the two groups. Results: According to results of this trial, a significant difference was observed between two groups after 24 hours (p = 0.004) and one week (p = 0.002). However, no discernible difference was observed after one month (p = 0.643). Conclusion: Post-restorative sensitivity in patients with composite restorations was reduced using titania-reinforced bonding agents as compared to bonding agents without nanoparticles. This shows that inclusion of titania nanoparticles into adhesive dentistry could be beneficial in resolving post-restorative sensitivity occurring with composite restorations.

Deciphering the structure-function-quality improvement role of starch gels by wheat bran insoluble dietary fibers obtained from different fermentation patterns and its potential mechanisms.

Insoluble dietary fiber (IDF) isolated through co-fermented bran from probiotics may improve starch gel-based foods. This work aimed to elucidate the comprehensive impact of different IDF samples (CK, unfermented; NF, natively fermented; YF, yeast fermented; LF, Lactobacillus plantarum fermented; and MF, mix-fermented) and their addition ratios (0.3-0.9%) on gel structure-property function. Results indicated that IDF introduction altered the starch pasting behavior (decreased the viscosity and advanced the pasting time). Also, YF, LF, and MF showed less effect on gel multiscale morphology (SEM and CLSM); however, their excessively high ratio resulted in network structure deterioration. Moreover, FT-IR, XRD, and Raman characterization identified the composite gels interaction mechanisms mainly by hydrogen bonding forces, van der Waals forces, water competition, and physical entanglement. This modulation improved the composite gel water distribution, rheological/stress-strain behavior, textural properties, color, stability, and digestive characteristics. The obtained findings may shed light on the construction and development of whole-grain gel-based food products with new perspectives.

Biodegradable magnesium and zinc composite microspheres with synergistic osteogenic effect for enhanced bone regeneration.

Biodegradable polymer microspheres in bone tissue engineering have become appealing as their non-invasive advantages in irregular damage bone repair. However, current microspheres used in BTE still lack sufficient osteogenic capacity to induce effective bone regeneration. In this study, we developed osteogenic composite microspheres concurrently loaded with magnesium oxide (MgO) and zinc oxide (ZnO), both of which are osteogenic active substances, using a facile and scalable emulsification method. The osteogenic composite microspheres exhibited a sequential yet complementary release profile characterized by a rapid release of Mg2+ and a gradual release of Zn2+ in a physiological environment, thereby maintaining the concentration of bioactive ions at a sustained high level. As a result, the combination of Mg2+ and Zn2+ in the composite microspheres led to a synergistic enhancement in biomimetic mineralization and the upregulation in the expression of osteogenic-related genes and proteins at the cellular level. Through a critical-sized calvarial rate defect model, the osteogenic composite microspheres were demonstrated to have strong osteogenic ability to promote new bone formation via ultrasonic imaging, histological and immunohistochemical evaluations. In sum, these osteogenic composite microspheres as microcarriers of Mg2+ and Zn2+ have great potential in the delivery of therapeutic ions for treating bone defects.

A Delphi Panel Study for Public Education about Vascularized Composite Allograft Donation in the United States.

Introduction: Improving public awareness about the opportunity to become a vascularized composite allograft (VCA) donor is crucial to increasing access to organs. Prior research identified a need for comprehensive and comprehensible public education materials. A 2-round Delphi panel was conducted to garner US expert consensus on the topics and language to include in public education materials via an organ procurement organization-hosted website. Methods: The round 1 survey assessed the importance of educational topics and statements (n = 19) using 5-point Likert scales. The round 2 survey asked experts to rate new and repeated educational topics (n = 27). Open-ended comment boxes elicited experts' feedback and language revisions for educational statements. Responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics and rapid qualitative analysis. Findings: Eighteen experts responded to the round 1 survey and 15 to round 2. After round 2, 20 topics had mean (M) importance greater than neutral (M > 3.00) and were retained in the educational materials. The 5 most important topics by mean Likert ratings were: consent process for donation (M = 4.73), potential recipients (M = 4.73), most common vascularized composite organs transplanted (M = 4.47), purpose (M = 4.47), and definition (M = 4.47). Seven themes emerged from experts' open-ended comments about the importance and language of educational statements. Conclusions: Delphi panel findings identified expert-endorsed topics and educational statements for public education about vascularized composite organ donation via an educational website. Future research should assess the website's impact on public knowledge of VCA donation.

Effect of adding ytterbium trifluoride filler particles on the mechanical, physicochemical and biological properties of methacrylate-based experimental resins for 3D printing.

OBJECTIVE: To formulate an experimental methacrylate-based photo-polymerizable resin for 3D printing with ytterbium trifluoride as filler and to evaluate the mechanical, physicochemical, and biological properties. METHODS: Resin matrix was formulated with 60 wt% UDMA, 40 wt% TEGDMA, 1 wt% TPO, and 0.01 wt% BHT. Ytterbium Trifluoride was added in concentrations of 1 (G1 %), 2 (G2 %), 3 (G3 %), 4 (G4 %), and 5 (G5 %) wt%. One group remained without filler addition as control (GC). The samples were designed in 3D builder software and printed using a UV-DLP 3D printer. The samples were ultrasonicated with isopropanol and UV cured for 60 min. The resins were tested for degree of conversion (DC), flexural strength, Knoop microhardness, softening in solvent, radiopacity, colorimetric analysis, and cytotoxicity (MTT and SRB). RESULTS: Post-polymerization increased the degree of conversion of all groups (p < 0.05). G2 % showed the highest DC after post-polymerization. G2 % showed no differences in flexural strength from the G1 % and GC (p > 0.05). All groups showed a hardness reduction after solvent immersion. No statistical difference was found in radiopacity, softening in solvent (ΔKHN%), colorimetric spectrophotometry, and cytotoxicity (MTT) (p > 0.05). G1 % showed reduced cell viability for SRB assay (p < 0.05). SIGNIFICANCE: It was possible to produce an experimental photo-polymerizable 3D printable resin with the addition of 2 % ytterbium trifluoride as filler without compromising the mechanical, physicochemical, and biological properties, comparable to the current provisional materials.

Comprehensive dental care in patient with Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome: A 3-year case study using progressive desensitization techniques and oral sedation.

AIM: This case study delineates a minimally invasive and effective approach for the aesthetic and functional restoration of teeth in a patient with Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome (RTS), focusing on the challenges and strategies tailored to their specific dental care needs. METHODS AND RESULTS: A 20-year-old patient diagnosed with RTS presented at the Pediatric Dentistry Department for a comprehensive dental assessment and care. The individual's genetic condition manifested in unique dental and craniofacial anomalies, complicating standard dental procedures. Following an initial consultation that underscored limited cooperation due to intellectual disabilities, a customized treatment plan was developed. This included behavior modification techniques to acclimate the patient to dental settings and procedures. Utilizing "simplified technologies" such as volumetric polymerization composites and self-etching primer and adhesive systems, tooth 36 was successfully treated. The approach showcased the potential for dental care in RTS patients with minimal sedation, prioritizing patient comfort and cooperation. CONCLUSION: The successful dental treatment of the RTS patient highlights the importance of patient-centered, minimally invasive approaches in managing individuals with special healthcare needs. Emphasizing continuity of care and prioritizing restorative treatments facilitated significant improvements in oral health and patient cooperation. This case contributes to the sparse literature on dental care for RTS patients, advocating for specialized strategies to address their comprehensive oral health needs. The findings underscore the necessity for interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative care protocols to ensure effective and empathetic dental treatment for individuals with RTS.

Exploring healthy lifestyle with health locus of control and sociodemographic variables in Türkiye.

In this study, we aimed to explore the effects of Internal/Chance/Powerful Others Health Locus of Control (IHLC/CHLC/PHLC) on the healthy lifestyle and to assess the sensitivity of the healthy lifestyle to sociodemographic variables. To achieve this goal, we collected data by performing online and hand-delivered surveys (n = 950) with individuals aged 18 or older in Türkiye. The results showed that IHLC and PHLC had positive and significant effects on Healthy Lifestyle Index (HLI). However, the results expressed that CHLC had no negative and significant effect on HLI. Our assessment of a healthy lifestyle in terms of health locus of control (HLC) and sociodemographic variables revealed important findings, which may contribute to the development of public health strategies in several ways; for example, they can be used as a framework to conduct public health interventions that promote a healthy lifestyle.

Exploring essential oil-based bio-composites: molecular docking and in vitro analysis for oral bacterial biofilm inhibition.

Oral bacterial biofilms are the main reason for the progression of resistance to antimicrobial agents that may lead to severe conditions, including periodontitis and gingivitis. Essential oil-based nanocomposites can be a promising treatment option. We investigated cardamom, cinnamon, and clove essential oils for their potential in the treatment of oral bacterial infections using in vitro and computational tools. A detailed analysis of the drug-likeness and physicochemical properties of all constituents was performed. Molecular docking studies revealed that the binding free energy of a Carbopol 940 and eugenol complex was -2.0 kcal/mol, of a Carbopol 940-anisaldehyde complex was -1.9 kcal/mol, and a Carbapol 940-eugenol-anisaldehyde complex was -3.4 kcal/mol. Molecular docking was performed against transcriptional regulator genes 2XCT, 1JIJ, 2Q0P, 4M81, and 3QPI. Eugenol cinnamaldehyde and cineol presented strong interaction with targets. The essential oils were analyzed against Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis isolated from the oral cavity of diabetic patients. The cinnamon and clove essential oil combination presented significant minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) (0.0625/0.0312 mg/mL) against S. epidermidis and S. aureus (0.0156/0.0078 mg/mL). In the anti-quorum sensing activity, the cinnamon and clove oil combination presented moderate inhibition (8 mm) against Chromobacterium voilaceum with substantial violacein inhibition (58% ± 1.2%). Likewise, a significant biofilm inhibition was recorded in the case of S. aureus (82.1% ± 0.21%) and S. epidermidis (84.2% ± 1.3%) in combination. It was concluded that a clove and cinnamon essential oil-based formulation could be employed to prepare a stable nanocomposite, and Carbapol 940 could be used as a compatible biopolymer.

Evaluation of direct restorations for pit-and-fissure caries using stamp combined with single-shade composite resin technique: A 12-month follow-up in vivo study.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the clinical performance of direct restorations for pit-and-fissure caries in molars using stamp combined with single-shade composite resin (S/SCR) technique, and assess the effect of the number of stamp pressing on the trueness of S/SCR technique. METHODS: Twenty molars of fifteen patients with pit-and-fissure caries but with an intact or micro-cavitated occlusal morphology were restored using S/SCR technique and were randomly divided into single pressing group (n = 10) and double pressing group (n = 10). Intraoral scans were obtained before treatment (scan 1), after filling (scan 2) and after polishing (scan 3). Deviation distribution maps of pairwise fitting were created including comparison 1 (scan1/scan 2), comparison 2 (scan1/scan 3), and comparison 3 (scan2/scan 3) using Geomagic Control X software. Root mean square (RMS) values were calculated to evaluate the trueness of restorations. Clinical performances including esthetic, functional, and biological properties of all restorations were evaluated according to FDI criteria after a 12-month follow-up. Analysis of variance, independent-samples T test and Wilcoxon rank-sum test were used for statistical analysis (α=0.05). RESULTS: RMS values for comparison 1, comparison 2, and comparison 3 were 0.1243 ± 0.0151, 0.0966 ± 0.0136, and 0.0605 ± 0.0137 mm in single pressing group, while 0.0831 ± 0.0140, 0.0741 ± 0.0107, and 0.0475 ± 0.0099 mm in double pressing group, respectively. RMS value of single pressing group was higher than that of double pressing group in the same comparison (p ≤ 0.001). No statistically significant differences were observed between the two groups regarding esthetic, functional and biological properties (p > 0.05). For all properties, all restorations scored within 3, with over 80% scoring 1. CONCLUSION: S/SCR technique presents satisfying clinical performances for pit-and-fissure caries in molars after a 12-month follow-up. Besides, double pressing can improve the trueness of restorations compared to single pressing. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: S/SCR technique is efficient in direct composite resin restoration for pit-and-fissure caries, with satisfying esthetic, functional and biological properties after a 12-month follow-up. Significantly, double pressing improves the trueness of S/SCR technique, reducing the need for occlusion adjustment.

Exploring green environmental composites as hosts for shielding materials using experimental, theoretical and Geant4 simulation methods.

Rice straw is considered an agricultural waste harmful to the environment, which is abundant in most parts of the world. From this point, the present study is devoted to preparing new composites of two types of glue based on rice straw as a plentiful, low-cost matrix. Straw glue samples were prepared by mixing 20% wt. of rice straw with 80% wt. of animal glue (RS-An) and polyvinyl acetate (RS-PVAC) at different thicknesses of 1, 2, and 3 cm. The chemical composition of the prepared samples was identified by energy dispersive X-ray analysis and their morphology was examined using a scanning electron microscope. The mechanical test explored that RS-An and RS-PVAC respectively required a stress of 25.2 and 25.5 MPa before reaching the breaking point. γ-ray shielding performance was analyzed and determined at numerous photon energies from 0.059 to 1.408 MeV emitted from five-point γ-rays sources using NaI (Tl). Linear attenuation coefficient was calculated by obtaining the area under the peak of the energy spectrum observed from Genie 2000 software in the presence and absence of the sample. The experimental results of mass attenuation coefficient were compared with theoretical data of XCOM software with relative deviation ranging from 0.10 to 2.99%. Geant4 Monte Carlo simulation code was also employed to validate the experimental results. The relative deviation of XCOM and Geant4 outcomes was 0.09-1.77%, which indicates a good agreement between them. Other radiation shielding parameters such as half value layer (HVL), tenth value layer, and mean free path were calculated in three ways: experimentally, theoretically from the XCOM database, and by simulation using Geant4 code. Additionally, effective atomic number (Zeff), effective atomic number (Neff), equivalent atomic number (Zeq), and buildup factors were evaluated. It was confirmed that the γ-ray shielding properties were further boosted by mixing rice straw with the animal glue compared to the synthetic one.

Evaluation of the Effect of Various Beverages and Food Materials on the Color Stability of Provisional Materials: An In Vitro Study.

Aim This study aims to evaluate the color stability of four provisional materials: polymethyl methacrylate (DPI® Self-Cure), 10-ethoxylated bisphenol A dimethacrylate (Oratemp® C&B), bis-acryl composite resin (Systemp® C&B, Ivoclar Vivadent), and bis-acryl composite (Systemp® C&B, Ivoclar Vivadent) combined with light-cure composite (Fusion Flo® LC). Materials and methods A total of 40 specimens were meticulously crafted from modeling wax into discs, each precisely 2 mm thick and 20 mm in diameter. Four provisional materials were packed into molds, yielding 10 specimens for each material group. After mixing and polymerization, the specimens were trimmed and polished. Reflectance spectrophotometers were used for initial color assessments based on the CIELAB color space system. Staining solutions, including coffee, Tata Green Tea, Pepsi, and turmeric, were prepared to mimic dietary agents. Artificial saliva, replicating oral conditions, was formulated and sterilized. The specimens were then immersed in various solutions for 15 days at 37 °C. Color measurements were taken on days 2 and 15 using the same spectrophotometer, calculating color differences (ΔE) from changes in L*, a*, and b* values. Results DPI Self-Cure (polymethyl methacrylate) was found to be the most color-stable temporary restorative material, followed by Vivadent (bis-acryl composite resin), Oratemp (10-ethoxylated bisphenol A dimethacrylate), and Fusion Flo (light-cure composite). Fusion Flo exhibited the highest color change by the 15th day. Coffee and green tea demonstrated the greatest potential for causing color changes in the provisional restorative materials. Conclusion DPI Self-Cure exhibited the highest color stability among the provisional materials, with Vivadent and Oratemp following closely behind. Green tea and coffee were the most potent staining agents, while Pepsi and turmeric induced lesser color changes.

Composite hydrogels fabricated from CMC-PVA-GG incorporated with ZiF-8 for wound healing applications.

The skin is at risk for injury to external factors since it serves as the body's first line of defense against the external environment. Hydrogels have drawn much interest due to their intrinsic extracellular matrix (ECM) properties and their biomimetic, structural, and durable mechanical characteristics. Hydrogels have enormous potential use in skin wound healing due to their ability to deliver bioactive substances easily. In this study, composite hydrogels were developed by blending guar gum (GG), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) with crosslinker TEOS for skin wound treatment. The structural, surface morphology, surface roughness, and stability features of the composite hydrogels were characterized by several techniques, such as FTIR, SEM-EDX, AFM, and DSC. The increasing ZiF-8 causes more surface roughness, with decreased swelling in different media (Aqueous > PBS > NaCl). The increasing ZiF-8 amount causes less hydrophilic behavior and biodegradation with increasing gel fraction. The cytocompatibility of Zinc imidazolate framework-8 (ZiF-8) based composites was evaluated against fibroblast cell lines by cell viability, proliferation, and cell morphology. The increasing ZiF-8 caused more cell viability and proliferation with proper cell morphology. Hence, the results show that synthesized composite hydrogels may be a potential candidate for numerous wound repair applications.

Characterization of experimental resin composites with cholesteryl methacrylate organic matrix - Part 2.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the degree of conversion (%), flexural strength (MPa), elastic modulus (GPa), compressive strength (MPa), Knoop microhardness (KHN), post-gel shrinkage (%) and prediction of ideal concentration of cholesteryl methacrylate (CM) in experimental resins. METHODS: Four formulations were manipulated (F): F1, control group, (0 % CM); F2 (15 % CM); F3 (19.8 % CM) and F4 (30 % CM). Bis-GMA and CM percentages were determined using Statistica™ software. For the degree of conversion test, Raman spectroscopy was used. To testing flexural strength, elastic modulus and compressive strength, a universal testing machine was used. For the Knoop microhardness test five indentations were made in each sample. Post-gel shrinkage was determined using the strain gauge method. Statistica™ software processed all data obtained in this study. Results were submitted to one-way ANOVA and Tukey's post hoc tests (α = 0.05). RESULTS: Better performance was observed for F2 (15 % CM) and F3 (19,8 % CM) for degree of conversion, elastic modulus and post-gel shrinkage. For Knoop microhardness F2 (15 % CM), F3 (19,8 % CM) and F4 (30 % CM) showed higher values than F1 (0 % CM). For flexural strength F1 (0 % CM) and F3 (19,8 %) were similar and F4 showed the lowest values and for compressive strength F1 (0 % CM) showed the highest values. For mixture designs analysis data, concentrations ≤ 25 % of CM would provide better results. SIGNIFICANCE: Addition of CM at concentrations lower than 30 % contributed to a significant increase in the degree of conversion, microhardness values, elastic modulus and reduction of post-gel shrinkage.

Electron beam irradiation developed cinnamon oil- (polyvinyl alcohol/gum tragacanth)/graphene oxide dressing hydrogels: Antimicrobial and healing assessments.

This study aimed to develop hydrogel dressings for wound healing composed of gum tragacanth (TG) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) loaded with Graphene oxide (GO) and Cinnamon oil (CMO) using electron beam irradiation. The impact of the preparation conditions and the incorporation of GO and CMO on the characteristic properties of the prepared CMO-(PVA/TG)-GO wound dressings was evaluated. The healing-related characteristics were assessed, including fluid absorption and retention, water vapor transmission rate (WVTR), hemolytic assay, and antimicrobial potential. Wound healing efficacy was evaluated using a scratch wound healing assay. FTIR analysis verified the chemical structure, whereas scanning electron microscopy demonstrated an appropriate porosity structure necessary for optimal wound healing. The gel content increases with the initial total polymer concentration and the irradiation dose increases. Higher GO and CMO content improve the gel content and decreases swelling. WVTR decreases with the rise in CMO content. In vitro, cytotoxicity and hemolytic potency assessments confirmed their biocompatibility. The incorporation of GO and CMO enhances the antimicrobial activity and wound-healing capability. Based on the above findings, CMO-(PVA/TG)-GO dressings show promising potential as candidates for wound care.

In situ self-assembly of pulp microfibers and nanofibers into a transparent, high-performance and degradable film.

Despite the significant properties of fossil plastics, the current unsustainable methods employed in production, usage and disposal present a grave threat to both energy and environment. The development of degradable biomass materials as substitutes for fossil plastics can effectively address the energy-environment paradox at the source. Here, we prepared novel micro-nano multiscale composite films through assembling and crosslinking nanocellulose with coniferous wood pulp microfibers. The composite film combines the advantages of microfibers and nanocellulose, achieving a maximum transmittance of 91 %, foldability, excellent mechanical properties (tensile strength: 51.3 MPa, elongation at break: 4 %, young's modulus: 3.4 GPa), high thermal stability and complete degradation within 40 days. The composite film exhibits mechanochemical self-healing and retains properties even after fracture. Such exceptional performance fully meets the requirements for substituting petroleum plastics. By incorporating CaAlSiN3:Eu2+ into the composite film, it enables dual emission of red and blue light, thereby being able to promote plant growth and presenting potential as a novel sustainable alternative for agricultural films. By assembling microfiber and nanocellulose, such novel strategy is presented for the fabrication of high-quality biomass materials, thereby offering a promising avenue towards environment-friendly resource-sustainable new materials.

Mechanically activated self-propagating high-temperature synthesis of titanium silicide-molybdenum disilicide composite using constituent elements.

Silicides with potential to form a protective silica layer have garnered considerable attention as engineering ceramic materials. This research investigates the influence of initial composition and mechanical activation on the synthesis performance and microstructure of products in the Ti-Si-Mo system. Several compositions, including Ti8Mo29Si63, Ti15Mo25Si60, Ti22Mo22Si56, Ti40Mo12Si48, Ti52Mo6Si42, Ti62.5Si37.5, and Mo33Si67, were prepared and synthesized via mechanically activated self-propagating high-temperature synthesis (MASHS). XRD, SEM, and EDS analyses, along with related investigations such as grain size calculations and morphology studies, were performed. The results indicate that at low Ti concentrations, the composite contains (Ti0.8,Mo0.2)Si2 and MoSi2, whereas moderate Ti concentrations enable the formation of the MoSi2-Ti5Si3 composite. Moreover, a high amount of Mo can extensively dissolve into the titanium and titanium silicide structure, resulting in the synthesis of the (Ti,Mo)5Si3 phase in Ti-rich samples. The dissolution of Mo in the crystal structure of the compound decreases the lattice parameters of titanium silicide. Furthermore, mechanical activation facilitates the initiation of reactions in compositions with lower Ti content and yielding fine-grained products.

Association between composite dietary antioxidant index and metabolic dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease: result from NHANES, 2017-2020.

Background: The development of metabolic dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) has been associated with lipid accumulation, oxidative stress, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and lipotoxicity. The Composite Dietary Antioxidant Index (CDAI) is a comprehensive score representing an individual intake of various dietary antioxidants, including vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, selenium, zinc, and carotenoids. This study investigated the association between CDAI and MASLD. Materials and methods: Clinical and demographic data, as well as ultrasound transient elastography measurements at baseline, were collected from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2017-2020 (NHANES 2017-2020). The controlled attenuation parameter was utilized to diagnose the presence of hepatic steatosis and to categorize individuals into those with and without MASLD. Liver stiffness was measured by ultrasound transient elastography, and subjects were classified as those with and without advanced liver fibrosis. Results: This study included 5,884 adults, of whom 3,433 were diagnosed with MASLD, resulting in a weighted prevalence of 57.3%. After adjusting for covariates, the odds ratios for MASLD were 0.96 (95% CI: 0.82, 1.12) in the second quartile, 0.80 (95% CI: 0.68, 0.95) in the third quartile and 0.60 (95% CI: 0.49, 0.73) in the fourth quartile, respectively. CDAI, however, was not significantly associated with advanced liver fibrosis. Conclusion: These findings suggested that scores on the CDAI were linearly and negatively associated with the prevalence of MASLD in the United States adults.

In Vitro Effect of Luting Cement on Fracture Resistance of Primary Maxillary Central Incisors with Fiber Posts.

Objectives: The use of fiber posts in endodontically treated primary maxillary central incisors improves the retention of composite resin restorations. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of 4 different luting cements on fracture resistance of primary maxillary central incisors with fiber posts. Materials and Methods: In this in vitro study, 40 primary maxillary central incisors were endodontically treated and obturated with Metapex. They were then randomly divided into four groups (n=10) for cementation of fiber posts with GC Fuji I glass ionomer luting cement, Panavia F2.0 dual-cure luting cement, Panavia SA Luting Plus cement (self-adhesive), and TotalCem self-adhesive cement. After 1000 thermal cycles, the fracture resistance was measured. Data were statistically analyzed using ANOVA (alpha=0.05). Results: The mean fracture resistance was 267.07±130.01N in TotalCem, 257.27±102.56N in Panavia F2.0 dual-cure cement, 227.82±110.40N in Panavia SA Luting Plus self-adhesive cement, and 220.89±59.96N in GC Fuji I glass ionomer group. There was no statistically significant difference in fracture resistance among the four groups (P=0.714). Conclusion: Type of luting cement had no significant effect on fracture resistance of primary maxillary central incisors with fiber posts. Nonetheless, TotalCem yielded the highest fracture resistance. Considering its self-adhesive property and easy workability, it can be a good option for cementation of fiber posts in endodontically treated primary central incisors.

Push-Out Bond Strength of Fiber Posts to Overflared Root Canals in Different Root Regions: Effect of Reinforcement Techniques.

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the effect of different reinforcement techniques on the push-out bond strength of fiber posts to over-flared root canals. Materials and Methods: Forty-eight extracted human single-canal premolars were endodontically treated, over-flared, and randomly divided into four groups (N=12) including SARC: luting with self-adhesive resin cement, DCC: luting with dual-cure core build-up resin composite, CRR: relining root canal walls with bulk-fill resin composite, and DAP: relining fiber post with bulk-fill resin composite. After 24 hours, the roots were sectioned to obtain three cervical, middle, and apical 3mm slices. The push-out test was performed and failure pattern was examined. Kruskal-Wallis and post-hoc Dunn-Bonferroni tests were used for statistical analysis (P<0.05). Results: In all three regions, the lowest and highest bond strength was found in the SARC and DAP groups, respectively. In the middle region, there was a statistically significant difference between the bond strength of the SARC group and that of the DCC (P=0.044), CRR (P=0.021), and DAP (P<0.001) groups. There was no significant difference in the apical region. The lowest bond strength was observed in the apical region, and the highest was related to the cervical region. Adhesive failure was the most common failure pattern in all groups. Conclusion: Based on our results DCC, CRR and DAP methods increased bond strength in the middle and cervical sections of over-flared root regions. Considering that DCC is the easiest and most practical method, we propose that CRR and DAP can be replaced with this method in clinical procedures.