Beta-Glucan as a Soluble Dietary Fiber Source: Origins, Biosynthesis, Extraction, Purification, Structural Characteristics, Bioavailability, Biofunctional Attributes, Industrial Utilization, and Global Trade.

This paper explores the multifaceted nature of ß-glucan, a notable dietary fiber (DF) with extensive applications. Beginning with an in-depth examination of its intricate polysaccharide structure, the discussion extends to diverse sources like oats, barley, mushrooms, and yeast, emphasizing their unique compositions. The absorption and metabolism of ß-glucan in the human body are scrutinized, emphasizing its potential health benefits. Extraction and purification processes for high-quality ß-glucan in food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics are outlined. The paper underscores ß-glucan's biofunctional roles in immune modulation, cholesterol regulation, and gastrointestinal health, supported by clinical studies. The review discusses global trade dynamics by tracing its evolution from a niche ingredient to a global commodity. In summary, it offers a comprehensive scientific perspective on ß-glucan, serving as a valuable resource for researchers, professionals, and industries exploring its potential in the dietary fiber landscape.

Clinical and radiographic assessment of post-treatment endodontic disease by primary healthcare professionals: A hospital-based 1-year follow-up.

Background: The comprehensive healthcare approach including prophylactic guidance and motivation by the primary healthcare professionals towards oral and maxillofacial diseases such as post-treatment endodontic disease (PTED) plays a significant role in diagnosing and managing the condition. Especially in the developing countries like India where the hygiene practices are severely compromised, the primary healthcare professional plays an upfront role. Objectives: The present study was conducted to assess the clinical and radiographic characteristics of PTED by primary healthcare professional. Materials and Methods: The cross-sectional study was conducted in a dental hospital in Kutch, Gujarat, India. In the present study, out of a total of 755, 96 patients were diagnosed with PTED, met the inclusion criteria, and were enrolled for the study. After performing intraoral and extraoral examination, intraoral periapical radiographs were taken of the concerned teeth. Under dark room conditions, radiographs were examined using dentsply light box and magnifying glass by healthcare professionals. Results: Out of 755 patients, 96 (12.71%) patients were enrolled in the study with 98 concerned teeth. The most common teeth diagnosed with PTED were maxillary molars with 25.51% (21) individuals. Well-defined radiolucent lesions were seen in 62.24% (61) individuals. Voids in both coronal and apical region were seen in majority (38.77%) of patients. The length of root-end fillings with respect to the radiographic apex was satisfactory in 44.89% (44) individuals. The present study showed strong correlation between sinus formation and presence of periapical lesion with P value of 0.0219*. Conclusion: The proper guidance and preventive care by primary healthcare professionals leads to the relatively less prevalence of post-treatment endodontic disease in Indian population. The present study further suggests the higher substandard quality of root-end fillings of endodontically treated teeth.

Comparative Evaluation of Internal Margin Adaptation and Integrity of Class I Preparations using Two Composites: An In Vitro Study.

AIM AND OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study is to evaluate the internal margin adaptation and integrity of Class 1 preparations using two composites types (bulk fill/conventional) with two placement methods (4/2 mm increments). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Class 1 preparations of 4 mm × 4 mm dimensions were made on 30 extracted human mandibular molars. They were randomly divided into three groups; among them, in Group 1 (n = 10), cavities were filled with SureFil SDR Bulk Fill, Group 2 (n = 10) cavities were filled with Filtek Bulk Fill of 4 mm increments in both groups, and in Group 3 (n = 10), cavities were filled with conventional composite Filtek Z350 with 2 mm increments. Samples were sectioned occlusogingivally. Then, dye was on internal margins, and images of each specimen were recorded using a digital camera to evaluate the marginal integrity and adaptation of restorative material to the tooth surface with image analysis software. Then, collected data were put under the statistical analysis with analysis of variance test and post hoc Tukey's test. RESULTS: There was no significant difference in overall dye penetration in bulk fill and conventional (incremental fill) composite resins; however, when dye penetration was evaluated at different locations, within enamel and mid-dentin, significantly more gap-free margins were found than at the pulpal interface. Filtek Bulk Fill and conventional composite (Filtek Z350) showed comparatively more dye penetration toward the pulpal interface compared to SDR Bulk Fill. CONCLUSION: There were no significant differences in percentage of gap-free margins between fill types for any of the composite materials. The proportions of gap-free margin were less at the pulpal interface and mid-dentin portions and enamel when filled with 4 and 2 mm increments.

Multiple hamartoma syndrome with characteristic oral and cutaneous manifestations.

Aim. To present a case of Cowden's syndrome and emphasize the importance of continued cancer surveillance in these patients. Cowden syndrome is an inherited autosomal dominant trait with incomplete penetrance and a range of expressivity. It is characterized by multiple hamartomas and neoplasms. Mucocutaneous features include trichilemmomas, oral mucosal papillomatosis, acral keratosis, and palmoplantar keratosis. Here, we report a case of Cowdens syndrome of a 30-year-old female patient who came with a complaint of multiple growths in the oral cavity of a three-month duration. On examination, multiple skin-colored, flat-topped papules over her forehead and right malar bone and multiple papillomatous papules involving all the mucosal surfaces intraorally were observed. This syndrome is associated with the development of several types of malignancies, especially breast carcinoma and thyroid carcinoma, which is why early recognition and regular and vigilant surveillance of individuals with the syndrome are important.