Mechanisms Underlying Graft Union Formation and Rootstock Scion Interaction in Horticultural Plants.

Grafting is a common practice for vegetative propagation and trait improvement in horticultural plants. A general prerequisite for successful grafting and long term survival of grafted plants is taxonomic proximity between the root stock and scion. For the success of a grafting operation, rootstock and scion should essentially be closely related. Interaction between the rootstock and scion involves complex physiological-biochemical and molecular mechanisms. Successful graft union formation involves a series of steps viz., lining up of vascular cambium, generation of a wound healing response, callus bridge formation, followed by vascular cambium formation and subsequent formation of the secondary xylem and phloem. For grafted trees compatibility between the rootstock/scion is the most essential factor for their better performance and longevity. Graft incompatibility occurs on account of a number of factors including of unfavorable physiological responses across the graft union, transmission of virus or phytoplasma and anatomical deformities of vascular tissue at the graft junction. In order to avoid the incompatibility problems, it is important to predict the same at an early stage. Phytohormones, especially auxins regulate key events in graft union formation between the rootstock and scion, while others function to facilitate the signaling pathways. Transport of macro as well as micro molecules across long distances results in phenotypic variation shown by grafted plants, therefore grafting can be used to determine the pattern and rate of recurrence of this transport. A better understanding of rootstock scion interactions, endogenous growth substances, soil or climatic factors needs to be studied, which would facilitate efficient selection and use of rootstocks in the future. Protein, hormones, mRNA and small RNA transport across the junction is currently emerging as an important mechanism which controls the stock/scion communication and simultaneously may play a crucial role in understanding the physiology of grafting more precisely. This review provides an understanding of the physiological, biochemical and molecular basis underlying grafting with special reference to horticultural plants.

Isolated gingival overgrowths: A review of case series.

Clinicians are often intrigued by the varied manifestations of the gingival tissue. Gingival overgrowth is a common clinical finding and most of them represent a reactive hyperplasia as a direct result of plaque-related inflammatory gingival disease. These types of growth generally respond to good plaque control, removal of the causative irritants, and conservative tissue management. This case series highlights three different cases of localized gingival overgrowth and its management with emphasis on the importance of patient awareness and motivation.

Efficacy of Human Chorion Membrane Allograft for Recession Coverage: A Case Series.

BACKGROUND: Membranes of human placentas have been used in the field of medicine for skin grafts, treatment of burns, and ulcerated skin conditions with great success. The use of placenta allografts in dentistry is a more recent development, with the first commercial product being made available in 2008. The unique inherent biologic properties in placenta allografts enhance wound healing and may propagate regeneration. METHODS: Ten healthy adult patients presenting with 21 Miller Class I gingival recession (GR) defects (isolated or adjacent multiple) were surgically treated with a modified coronally advanced flap and chorion membrane for root coverage. Clinical parameters measured at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months were probing depth, clinical attachment level, GR height, width of keratinized gingiva, and assessment of gingival biotype. Statistical analysis was performed to compare the treatment outcomes at the follow-up intervals. RESULTS: The results showed statistically significant (P <0.001) improvements in all clinical parameters at the 3- and 6-month follow-ups. The mean percentage of root coverage at the end of 6 months was 89.92% ± 15.59%, and 14 of 21 treated GR defects showed 100% root coverage. The gingival biotype also showed a thick biotype in nine sites that had an initial thin biotype. CONCLUSIONS: Fetal membranes possess distinctive properties that can be harnessed to promote periodontal healing. The chorion membrane covered by a modified coronally advanced flap is a new approach that has shown promising results in terms of root coverage, increased width of keratinized tissue, and thickness of the gingival biotype.

Informed consent: Issues and challenges.

Informed consent is an ethical and legal requirement for research involving human participants. It is the process where a participant is informed about all aspects of the trial, which are important for the participant to make a decision and after studying all aspects of the trial the participant voluntarily confirms his or her willingness to participate in a particular clinical trial and significance of the research for advancement of medical knowledge and social welfare. The concept of informed consent is embedded in the principles of Nuremberg Code, The Declaration of Helsinki and The Belmont Report. Informed consent is an inevitable requirement prior to every research involving human being as subjects for study. Obtaining consent involves informing the subject about his or her rights, the purpose of the study, procedures to be undertaken, potential risks and benefits of participation, expected duration of study, extent of confidentiality of personal identification and demographic data, so that the participation of subjects in the study is entirely voluntary. This article provides an overview of issues in informed consent: The obligations of investigator, sponsor and Institutional Review Board to protect rights and welfare of human research subjects. It discusses about the basic elements of informed consent and the process to be followed while obtaining informed consent. Some of the circumstances under which informed consent can be waived and ethical challenges faced by physicians in obtaining informed consent from subjects are also highlighted in this article.

Randomized, controlled clinical study to evaluate efficacy of novel indigenously designed controlled release flurbiprofen gel system for management of periodontal diseases.

BACKGROUND: This randomized, controlled clinical study was planned to evaluate the use of anti-inflammatory drug flurbiprofen in the form of locally delivered controlled release gel in the treatment of periodontal disease. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The flurbiprofen gel was indigenously prepared in the concentration of 0.3%. The 30 patients with localized periodontal pockets measuring ≥5 mm were randomly divided into three groups. The groups received flurbiprofen gel, flurbiprofen gel after prophylaxis, and placebo gel after oral prophylaxis, respectively. The clinical parameters for plaque and gingival inflammation were evaluated at baseline, 7(th) day, and 14(th) day. RESULTS: The results of the study suggested the statistically significant (P < 0.05) improvement in the gingival status of the patients with the use of flurbiprofen gel as an adjunct to scaling and root planing as compared to oral prophylaxis or gel alone. CONCLUSION: The data demonstrated that the additional use of local drug delivery of flurbiprofen through gel media enhances the positive effects of scaling and root planing and helps in faster resolution of the inflammation.

Retromolar foramen and canal: a comprehensive review on its anatomy and clinical applications.

The retromolar foramen (RMF) and retromolar canal (RMC) are the anatomical structures of the mandible located in retromolar fossa behind the third molar tooth. This foramen and canal contain neurovascular structures which provide accessory/additional innervation to the mandibular molars and the buccal area. These neurovascular contents of the canal gain more importance in medical and dental practice, because these elements are vulnerable to damage during placement of osteointegrated implants, endodontic treatment and sagittal split osteotomy surgeries and a detailed knowledge of this anatomical variation would be vital in understanding failed inferior alveolar nerve blockage, spread of infection and also metastasis. Although few studies have been conducted in the past showing the incidence and types in different population groups, a lacunae in comprehensive review of this structure is lacking. Though this variation posed challenging situations for the practicing surgeons, it has been quite neglected and the incidence of it is not well presented in all the textbooks. Hence, we made an attempt to provide a consolidated review regarding variations and clinical applications of the RMF and RMC.

Stress and periodontal disease: The link and logic!!

Stress is an equated response to constant adverse stimuli. At one point or another everybody suffers from stress. Stress is compatible with good health, being necessary to cope with the challenges of everyday life. Problems start when the stress response is inappropriate to the intensity of the challenge. Psychological stress can down regulate the cellular immune response. Communication between the central nervous system and the immune system occurs via a complex network of bidirectional signals linking the nervous, endocrine, and immune systems. Stress disrupts the homeostasis of this network, which in turn, alters immune function. Direct association between periodontal disease and stress remains to be proven, which is partly due to lack of an adequate animal models and difficulty to quantifying the amount and duration of stress and also there are many factors influencing the incidence and severity of periodontal disease. Nevertheless, more recent studies indicate that psychosocial stress represents a risk indicator for periodontal disease and should be addressed before and during treatment. This paper discusses how stress may modulate host response to bacteria and influence the course and progression of periodontal disease.

Ovarian development in Wistar rat treated prenatally with single dose diisobutyl phthalate.

Phthalates are a class of industrial compounds with an array of toxicological properties used in day to day life. Diisobutyl phthalate on (DIBP) is used as an additive to keep the plastics soft or flexible (plasticizer) in nitrocellulose plastic, nail polish, explosives, lacquer manufacturing etc. Although DIBP exposure in humans is generally low, people in adhesive industries and pharmaceutical industries are exposed to higher levels. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of single dose of DIBP on developing ovary of Wistar rat. One hundred and eight adult pregnant Wistar rats were divided into control and experimental groups. Rats in experimental group were given DIBP on day 10, 12 and 14 of gestation at 0.375, 0.75 and 1.25 ml/kg body weight dose intraperitoneally in a single dose. Sections of ovaries collected on day 21 of gestation were stained with hematoxylin and eosin and examined and Masson's trichrome histologically. Sections belonging to the control group showed the presence of oocytes in clusters separated by thin fibrous septa. Degeneration oocytes, empty follicles surrounded by follicular cells without gonocytes in the center were observed in ovarian stroma. Blood vessels in the ovarian stroma were prominent and congested. Around a bunch of follicles total architectural disarray was observed although on special staining fibrosis was not evident. As pregnant women are constantly exposed, effect of DIBP on ovary of a developing fetus would denote the long term consequence in future generations (Fig. 5, Ref. 39).

Comparison of immuno-phenotypes of stem cells from human dental pulp and periodontal ligament.

It has been established that human dental pulp and periodontal ligament contain a population of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). However, the phenotypic analysis in terms of putative stem cell markers expressed by these stem cell populations is incomplete. It is relevant to understand whether stem cells derived from closely related tissues are programmed differently. The aim of the present study is to analyze whether these stem cells depict distinct characteristics by gaining insight into differences in their immunophenotype. Dental pulp and periodontal ligament tissue samples were obtained from extracted impacted wisdom teeth. Cell cultures were analyzed for surface and intracellular markers by indirect immunoflourescence. Detailed immunophenotype analysis was carried out by flow cytometry using relevant markers. The present study data shows dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) and periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) expressed embryonic stem (ES) cell markers Oct-4, Nanog and mesodermal marker Vimentin by indirect immunoflourescence. PDLSCs, however, had a weak expression of Nanog. Immunophenotyping revealed strong expression of MSC markers (CD73, CD90) in DPSCs and PDLSCs. Differences were observed in expression of stemness-related markers. DPSCs displayed increased percentages of SSEA4, CD13 and CD166 and decreased CD9 expression compared to PDLSCs. Both stem cells express common MSC markers, different levels of expression suggests there might be more than one stem cell population existing within these tissues which differ in their embryonic status, and DPSCs are a more primitive stem cell population in comparison to PDLSCs.

Rabbit as an animal model for experimental research.

Animal experimentation is carried out in consultation with the veterinary wing but it is essential that be familiar with experimental protocols of animal model to be able to design an approriate study. This is more so in place where the veterinary facilities are not easily available.Span Rabbits are commonly used as subjects for screening implant material. They have gained favour for their numerous advantages even though they should be ideally used prior to testing in a larger animal model. Though experimentation on rabbits seems to be easy there are many pitfalls. Our endeavor in this article is to integrate all the data about maintaining rabbits as a model and to critically analyze it on the basis of our experimentation.

Evaluation of a porous hydroxyapatite alloplast in the management of grade II furcation defects in molars; A case series.

INTRODUCTION: The present case series evaluates the efficacy of a hydroxyapatite graft material in the management of grade II furcation involvement in first molars. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Eight patients presenting with a total of 9 grade II furcation defects in relation to the facial aspect of either maxillary or mandibular first molars were treated with a porous hydroxyapatite alloplast. The clinical outcomes were measured in terms of change in probing pocket depth and clinical attachment level (vertical and horizontal) at 6 months post-operatively. Radiographs were used as supplements. RESULTS: At 6 months, there was a mean pocket depth reduction of 3.12±1.25 mm, a mean vertical attachment gain of 2.75±1.17 mm, and a mean horizontal attachment gain of 3.25±1.28 mm. Radiographs showed bone fill at all treated sites. The outcomes were better in mandibular teeth compared to maxillary teeth. The use of hydroxyapatite graft is effective in reducing pocket depth and bringing out gain in attachment levels when used in grade II furcation defects. Key words:Grade II furcation, bone grafts, hydroxyapatite.

Effect of Cissus quadrangularis Linn on the development of osteopenia induced by ovariectomy in rats.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of our study was to see the efficacy of petroleum ether extract of Cissus quadrangularis (CQ) on development of osteopenia in ovariectomy induced Wistar rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The female Wistar rats were ovariectomized or Sham operated. The rats were anesthetized with pentobarbital sodium (40 mg/ kg b.w, i.p.), the ovaries were removed bilaterally. Sham-operation was performed in the same manner but only exposing the ovaries (sham operated (SHAM) group). A day later, the ovariectomized rats were randomly divided into four groups of eight animals each. The groups are 1. Sham operated (SHAM), 2. Ovariectomized (OVX), 3. Ovariectomized and treated with 25 mg/kg b.w of raloxifene (OVX+RAL), 4. Ovariectomized and treated with 500 mg/kg b.w of petroleum ether extract of CQ (OVX+CQ). The treatment continued for 30 days. At the end of the treatment, rats in all groups were sacrificed by cervical dislocation. Before sacrifice, blood was collected for the estimation of serum ALP, TRAP, Calcium and hydroxyproline; where as the left femur was used for histomorphometrical analysis. RESULTS: The findings assessed on the basis of animal weight, morphology of femur, histomorphometry and biochemical analysis. As compared to SHAM group, OVX group animals showed a significant rise in serum ALP, TRAP and hydroxyproline levels at the end of 1 month following ovariectomy while no significant change was seen in the serum calcium levels. ALP and TRAP levels of OVX + RAL and OVX + CQ groups showed a further increase following administration of raloxifene and Cissus quadrangularis. The serum hydroxyproline content was found to be increased in the OVX + CQ compared to SHAM group. CQ significantly increased the thickness of both cortical (p <0.001) and trabecular bone (p <0.001).This action of CQ is comparable to action of Raloxifene. )These data suggest a strong anti-osteoporotic activity of CQ. CONCLUSION: The results confirm, at least in part, for the use of Cissus quadrangularis in folk medicine to treat osteoporosis.

A preliminary survey of the median artery in human cadavers of South Indian origin.

BACKGROUND: The median artery is a transitory vessel that represents the arterial axis of the forearm during early embryonic life. It normally regresses in the second embryonic month. Its persistence in the human adult has been recorded in 2 different patterns: as a large, long vessel (palmar type) which reaches the hand; or as a small and short vessel (antebrachial type) which ends before reaching the wrist joint. The palmar type is of major clinical significance. OBJECTIVE: This study was undertaken to investigate the incidence and course of the palmar type of the median artery in South Indian cadavers. MATERIAL AND METHODS: 25 upper limbs of South Indian cadavers were taken to study the median artery. RESULTS: The occurrence of median artery was 8%; of which 4% was on the right side and the other 4% was on the left side. On both sides, the artery originated from the ulnar artery. On the right side, the artery was involved in the formation of superficial palmar arch, whereas the artery on the left side did not join the arch; it terminated as 1st and 2nd common palmar digital arteries. CONCLUSION: Persistent median artery is closely related to the anterior interosseous nerve, it is possible that the artery may compress the anterior interosseous nerve and cause the anterior interosseous nerve syndrome (Fig. 2, Ref. 17).

Chondrohumeralis and axillary arch of Langer: a rare combination of variant muscles with unique insertion.

During routine dissection, we found a rare case of an aberrant muscular slip originating from the pectoralis major called as the "chondroepitrochlearis / thoracoepicondylaris / costohumeralis" and an anomalous slip from the latissimus dorsi called as "axillary arch of Langer / musculus dorsoepitrochlearis" in the same axilla. Interestingly, these two slips found to have a common insertion after arching superficial to the axillary neurovascular bundle, into the fascia covering the biceps brachi and to the lateral lip of the intertubercular sulcus of the humerus. Presence of combination of these two rare variant muscles and their unique insertion pattern has not been reported earlier. The knowledge of these muscle variations is important for the clinicians and physiotherapist for better diagnosis and treatment. Here in this report, in addition to the case presentation, we also discuss their clinical significance and the review of literature in detail.

Unusual communication between the lingual nerve and mylohyoid nerves in a South Indian male cadaver: its clinical significance.

It is well known that variations in the branching pattern of the mandibular nerve frequently account for the failure to obtain adequate local anesthesia in routine oral and dental procedures, and also for the unexpected injury to branches of the nerves during surgery. During our routine dissection, we found the presence of a communicating branch between the mylohyoid and lingual nerves in a middle aged male cadaver. We also discussed its clinical and surgical implications in this report.

High origin of ulnar artery in South Indian male cadaver: a case report.

Superficial ulnar artery, a rare variation may arise from axillary or brachial artery. Here we report a case of high origin of superficial ulnar artery from the axillary artery. Superficial ulnar artery, after running under the bicipital aponeurosis in the cubital fossa, it terminated as superficial palmar arch in the hand. We also discuss its clinical and embryological relevance.

Salvaging a tooth with a deep palatogingival groove: an endo-perio treatment--a case report.

AIM: To describe the diagnosis and management of tooth 22 with a necrotic pulp and severe periodontal destruction associated with a deep palatogingival groove extending to the root apex. SUMMARY: Palatogingival grooves are uncommon in maxillary lateral incisors, but when present may contribute to the pathogenesis of periodontal and endodontic lesions. In the present case, the prognosis was considered poor, as the patient presented with a deep probing defect, advanced bone loss and grade III mobility of tooth 22. Root canal treatment was performed, followed by periodontal surgery, during which the groove was conditioned and sealed with conventional glass-ionomer cement and the osseous defect filled with indigenously prepared hydroxyapatite. The 18 month post-operative follow up showed substantial resolution of the osseous defect with gain in attachment and decreased tooth mobility. KEY LEARNING POINTS: Teeth with deep palatogingival grooves may be significantly compromised with severe periodontal and periapical bone loss. Following thorough evaluation, the careful application of endodontic and periodontal surgical procedures may restore satisfactory function.

A novel antioxidant 3-O-Caffeoyl-1-methylquinic acid enhances ultraviolet A-mediated apoptosis in immortalized HaCaT keratinocytes via Sp1-dependent transcriptional activation of p21(WAF1/Cip1).

It has become clear that ultraviolet A (UVA) radiation from the solar spectrum is a major environmental challenge to the skin. This necessitates developing novel mechanism-based agents capable of ameliorating UVA-induced effects in the skin. We recently described a novel antioxidant, 3-O-Caffeoyl-1-methylquinic acid (MCGA3) from leaves of bamboo. Here, we investigated the photochemopreventive effects of MCGA3 against UVA-mediated apoptosis in immortalized HaCaT keratinocytes. Pretreatment of MCGA3 rendered cells more sensitive to subsequent UVA irradiation-induced apoptosis as well as completely reversed UVA-induced sustained phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 and protein kinase Calpha, downregulation of p21, and reactive oxygen species generation. Interestingly, MCGA3 itself effectively induced p21 protein and mRNA levels. Silencing of p21 by RNA interference revealed a pivotal role of p21 in generating G(1)-S arrest and in enhancing UVA-mediated apoptosis. Transcriptional activation of p21 by MCGA3 was mediated through the proximal region of multiple Sp1 sites regardless of p53-binding site in p21 promoter, and this effect was augmented by desferroioxamine, an iron chelating agent. Additional studies suggested that iron chelation-driven hypoxia by MCGA3 may function in activation of p21. MCGA3 could be a useful agent to prevent photocarcinogenesis via apoptotic elimination of p53 mutant and DNA-repair defective cells caused by UVA radiation.

Oral malodor: a review of the literature.

Oral malodor or halitosis is any unpleasant odor emerging from the mouth that is detected by others. Many patients experience extreme discomfort and embarrassment and therefore seek help for this problem. Oral causes, such as poor oral hygiene, periodontal disease, tongue coating, food impaction, unclean dentures, faulty restorations, and dry mouth, are far more common than nonoral causes of malodor. Management may include simple measures such as scaling and root planing, instructions in oral hygiene, tongue cleaning, and mouth rinsing. This paper reviews the current knowledge, etiology, diagnosis, and possible treatment strategies for oral malodor. Emphasis is placed on the recognition of the dental hygienist as a specialist in aspects of patient care and instruction, which relate to the prevention and control of oral malodor.

LC determination and pharmacokinetics of meloxicam.

A simple and rapid HPLC assay method for the estimation of meloxicam in plasma was developed. The method totally eliminated the solvent extraction procedure. The plasma proteins were precipitated using perchloric acid (70%) and acetonitrile mixture (1:1 v/v) and the supernatant was directly injected to the HPLC system. The separation was achieved on a Lichrospher C18 5 micron (125x4.0 mm) analytical column with a mobile phase of sodium acetate buffer (pH 3.3, 170 mmol):acetonitrile (62:38 v/v) mixture. Detection was by UV detector at 355 nm. The retention time observed for meloxicam and piroxicam (internal standard) were at 6.0 and 4.0 min, respectively. The response was linear over a range of 50-1500 ng x ml(-1) in human plasma. The method was simple, specific, precise and accurate. The method was also used for the bioequivalence study of meloxicam formulation in healthy, human, Indian, male volunteers.