Mechanism of (-)-epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) dimerization by low-temperature plasma.

The efficient dimerization of (-)-Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which is the major bioactive constituent isolated from the leaves of Camellia sinensis, was initially reported without changes in its stereochemistry using low-temperature plasma. The contribution of plasma during the dimerization of EGCG in a methanolic solution was quantified using a major factor, with the major factor demonstrated based on the contents of newly generated products, in this case the sum of oolonghomobisflavans A and B depending on the plasma treatment method. Samples were treated in three methods: plasma direct treatment, an indirect treatment using only reactive species, and an indirect treatment using effects other than those by reactive species. Ozone was identified as a major factor during the plasma treatment, and the operating ranges of the ozone concentration for regulated dimerization were evaluated. The mechanism by which EGCG synthesizes dimers A and B during the treatment process using low-temperature plasma was investigated using the derived major factor and prior literature. The ozone generated by the plasma reacted with methanol to form formaldehyde, and dimers A and B were synthesized by oligomers through a methylene-bridge by the formaldehyde. A plausible pathway of regulated dimerization was deduced based on these results, and the mechanism of EGCG dimerization by plasma is described using this pathway.

Intrusion of posterior teeth using mini-screw implants.

It is often difficult to perform prosthodontic treatment for missing molars because the antagonist has become extruded. However, some problems can be overcome with successful molar intrusion with mini-screws if the direction and the amount of force are carefully controlled.