Lantana camara leaf extract ameliorates memory deficit and the neuroinflammation associated with scopolamine-induced Alzheimer's-like cognitive impairment in zebrafish and mice.

CONTEXT: Lantana camara Linn. (Verbenaceae) is used for improving memory in certain African societies. OBJECTIVE: This study investigated the effect of prophylactic treatment with hydroethanolic leaf extract of Lantana camara (LCE) on short-term memory deficit and neuroinflammation induced with scopolamine in zebrafish and mice. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Zebrafish (AB strain) and mice (ICR) were given donepezil (0.65 mg/kg, oral) and LCE (10, 30, 100 mg/kg, oral) for 7, and 10 days, respectively, before induction of cognitive impairment with scopolamine immersion (200 µM) and intraperitoneal injection (2 mg/kg), respectively. Spatial short-term memory was assessed in zebrafish using both Y- and T-mazes, whereas Y-maze was used in mice. Mice hippocampal and cortical tissues were analyzed for mRNA expression of proinflammatory genes (IL-1ß, IL-6, TNF-α, COX-2) using qRT-PCR. RESULTS: In the zebrafish Y-maze, LCE (10 and 100 mg/kg) increased time spent in the novel arm by 55.89 ± 5.70%, and 68.21 ± 2.75%, respectively, but not at 30 mg/kg. In the zebrafish T-maze, there was an increase in time spent in the food-containing arm at 30 (44.23 ± 2.13) and 100 mg/kg (52.30 ± 1.94). In the mouse Y-maze, spontaneous alternation increased by 52.89 ± 4.98% at only 10 mg/kg. LCE (10, 30, 100 mg/kg) inhibited proinflammatory gene (IL-1ß, IL-6, TNF-α, COX-2) mRNA expression, with the highest inhibitory effect on IL-6 in both the hippocampus (83.27 ± 2.49%; 100 mg/kg) and the cortex (98.74 ± 0.11%; 10 mg/kg). DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: LCE ameliorated scopolamine-induced AD in both zebrafish and mice.

Effect of Different Chemical Solvents on Bond Strength of Orthodontic Brackets: An In Vitro Study.

AIM: The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the impact of various chemical solvents on bond strength of orthodontic brackets. MATERIALS AND METHODS: One hundred healthy human premolars with undamaged buccal surfaces that were extracted for orthodontic purposes were gathered. Using 37% orthophosphoric acid, primer, and Transbond XT adhesive, ceramic 0.018" × 0.022" slot orthodontic brackets were adhered to the tooth surface. Following thermocycling, all samples were divided into four groups, with 25 samples in each group: group I: control; group II: application of ethanol; group III: application of acetone; and group IV: application of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). Following the debonding tests, a double-ocular stereomicroscope was used to inspect the tooth surfaces. Additionally, adhesive remnant index (ARI) values were evaluated at 40× magnification. Data were recorded and statistically analyzed. RESULTS: The bond strength was lesser in acetone applied group (16.18 ± 3.64) followed by DMSO applied group (22.08 ± 2.86), ethanol applied group (24.36 ± 4.02), and control group (27.14 ± 3.68). There was a highly significant difference found between the chemical solvents group. The ARI score 3 was present in control (12%), ethanol (8%), and DMSO (4%), and it was absent in acetone applied group. The ARI score 0 was more in acetone applied group (24%). CONCLUSION: The present study concluded that the reduced debonding force was found with the application of acetone solvent followed by DMSO, ethanol, and control groups. Applying acetone can be a substitute technique to help with ceramic bracket debonding. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Orthodontic bracket debonding cannot occur without shear bond strength (SBS). The need for an ideal debonding technique for ceramic brackets without negative consequences arises from the risk of enamel damage that frequently follows the process. Acetone treatment prior to ceramic bracket debonding could be an alternate clinical technique to preventing enamel damage and facilitating debonding. How to cite this article: Bhushan R, Singh S, Sam G, et al. Effect of Different Chemical Solvents on Bond Strength of Orthodontic Brackets: An In Vitro Study. J Contemp Dent Pract 2023;24(12):940-943.

Ponticulus Posticus: An Important Diagnostic Finding Often Missed in Lateral Cephalograms.

AIM: The purpose of the current study was to investigate the presence of the ponticulus posticus (PP) frequently encountered in lateral cephalograms. MATERIALS AND METHODS: About 500 patients of age 12-40 years were selected whose digital lateral cephalogram was recorded and traced to confirm the presence of the PP and categorize as: (A) Absent, as evidenced by lateral cephalograms. (B) Complete PP evidenced by the presence of circumferential bone bridge that connected the upper articular process to the atlas's posterior arch. (C) Partial PP: presented as a bone spike that protruded from the top articular process or the posterior arch of the atlas and extended above the vertebral artery sulcus. Symptoms of migraine, shoulder discomfort, orofacial pain, and headache were also evaluated on interaction with the patients. Using the Chi-square test, the relationship between the patient's gender and the presence of the PP was assessed. A p-value of 0.05 or less was regarded as statistically significant. RESULTS: About 10% of the patients reported with the presence of complete variant, 70% with partial variant and rest 20% of patients with neither a partial nor a complete form of PP. There was no statistically significant association between the PP and gender, as indicated by the Chi-square values (3.146; p = 0.526). CONCLUSION: On conclusion, according to the findings of the current study, patients with a complete form of PP experience more symptoms than those with a partial form of PP. In both groups, the PP frequency was higher in females. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: In lateral cephalograms, the cervical spine region is typically ignored and given little weight. A common variation of atlas vertebrae is the PP, which is located in the posterior arch of the atlas. The PP exacerbates symptoms, such as migraine, tension headaches, shoulder pain, double vision, vertigo, stroke, and pain in the neck and orofacial region. Therefore, orthodontic specialists serve as initial diagnosticians and direct the patients to qualified physicians so that they can experience symptom relief.

Prevalence of Ectopic Canine in Different Sagittal and Vertical Skeletal Patterns.

AIM: The present investigation aims to find out the prevalence of ectopic canines among skeletal class I, II, and III malocclusions and to evaluate its variability among different genders and their growth patterns. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study sample included orthopantomograms (OPGs), lateral skull views, and study models of 999 patients collected from departmental archives. Among the selected samples, 258 were males and 738 were females. They were divided into skeletal class I, II, and III malocclusions sagittally and hypodivergent, normodivergent, and hyperdivergent groups according to their angle formed between point A-Nasion - point B (ANB) and angle formed between the Sella-Nasion (SN) plane and Gonion (Go) - Gnathion (Gn) plane (SnGoGn) values respectively. RESULTS: Of the 999 samples, 738 (73.9%) were female and 260 (25.8%) were male patients. When compared to men, females had a higher proportion of ectopic canines. An estimated 62.3% of skeletal class I, 29.1% of skeletal class II, and 8.6% of skeletal class III cases were found to have ectopic canines. An estimated 720 (72.1%) patients were found to have maxillary ectopic canines and out of the available sample, 474 patients have horizontal growth patterns, 335 have average growth patterns and 190 patients have vertical growth patterns. Labial impaction was the commonest (65.4%) followed by palatal (24.8%). Bilateral impaction was comparatively more (51.1%) than unilateral impaction (48.2%). Maxilla was more prevalent (72.1%) as compared to the mandible (16.3%) and for both the arches it was (11.6%). Ectopic canines were identified in a total of 62.3% of cases with skeletal class I, 29.1% of cases with skeletal class II, and 8.6% of cases with skeletal class III. CONCLUSION: The bilateral ectopic canine was mostly seen in skeletal class I and class III malocclusions, whereas, a unilateral presentation was mostly seen in skeletal class II malocclusions. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Knowing the likelihood of a maxillary canine erupting ectopically will aid clinicians in starting with interceptive therapy since this condition necessitates complex orthodontic mechanics.

Comparison of the Antimicrobial Activity of Aloevera Mouthwash with Chlorhexidine Mouthwash in Fixed Orthodontic Patients.

AIM: Aim of the present research was to compare the antimicrobial activity of Aloevera mouthwash with chlorhexidine mouthwash in fixed orthodontic patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A sample of 90 fixed Orthodontic patients participated in this study. Full-mouth oral prophylaxis was performed for every patient at the start of the study. Patients were advised to brush twice a day with the modified bass technique and rinse with respective mouthwashes for 20 days. Once the patients with fixed orthodontic appliances were accepted to participate in the study, they received dental prophylaxis which includes the removal of plaque, calculus, and stains from the teeth by scaling and polishing. Then they were randomly divided into the following three groups: chlorhexidine (group I), Aloevera (group II), and control (group III). A washout period of 8-10 days (baseline) was awaited post-oral prophylaxis and then the following clinical parameters were recorded: Plaque index (PI) and gingival index (GI). The data included clinical examination, inspection, and microscopic observation techniques. RESULTS: The mean reduction of the PI score on the 20th day of group II was 0.03 ± 0.18, group I was 0.43 ± 0.49, and the control group was 1.65 ± 0.88. The mean reduction of GI score on the 20th day of group II was 0.83 ± 0.40, group I was 0.93 ± 0.55, and group III was 1.85 ± 0.77. Student's t-test had been used to evaluate within each group between day 1 and day 20, group I and group II had shown higher differences compared to control. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, both chlorhexidine mouthwash and Aloevera mouthwash are important chemical adjuncts in controlling gingival inflammation, gingival bleeding, and plaque accumulation in orthodontic patients. Aloevera could be an alternative to chlorhexidine in patients who are seeking a chemical-free, indigenous, and patient-friendly oral hygiene aid. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Chlorhexidine is known to produce temporary tooth discoloration, allergic responses, dry mouth, burning in the mouth, and transient bad taste, which deter patients from using this mouthwash. The hunt for plant extract-based antimicrobial medicines has been prompted by the emergence of medication resistance and the unfavorable side effects of several antibiotics. These natural remedies can be a valuable substitute for creating a comparable effect.

Evaluation of the Impact of Acidic Drink on the Microhardness of Different Esthetic Restorative Materials: An In Vitro Study.

AIM: The aim of this study was to assess the impact of acidic drink on the microhardness of different esthetic restorative materials. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty samples (20 samples of each group) were prepared. group I: nanohybrid ormocer-based composite, group II: glasiosite compomer, and group III: nanoceramic composite. A cylindrical aluminum mold of 5 mm depth and 10 mm internal diameter was used to prepare the samples. All the esthetic restorative samples were submerged in 25 mL of acidic drink (Coca-Cola) for 10 minutes each day up to 15 days. The microhardness of each sample was measured using a Vickers diamond intender. These values were matched with baseline, 7th day, and 15th day for final microhardness values. RESULTS: The mean surface microhardness of 61.13 ± 0.82 was shown by group I, which was slightly more than that in group II (59.65 ± 1.16) and group III (59.22 ± 1.30). Analysis of covariance did not show any statistically significant difference between the groups. The samples in group III showed the highest reduction in surface microhardness value after immersion into acidic drink, followed by group II and group I on 7th day and 15th day. A statistically significant difference (p < 0.001) was found on 7th day. CONCLUSION: The present study concludes that the esthetic restorative material-nanohybrid ormocer-based composite-showed the finest behavior both before and after being dipped in the acidic drink followed next by glasiosite compomer and nanoceramic composite. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The various esthetic restorative materials with different physical characteristics and colors are marketed in numerous ways. Nevertheless, all dental restorative materials show surface degradation under acidic conditions over a period of time. So, it helps to know the surface microhardness changes of various esthetic restorative materials upon repeated exposure to acidic beverages.

Effectiveness of Various Dental Varnishes in Prevention of Enamel Demineralization around Orthodontic Brackets: An In Vitro Study.

AIM: The present study aimed to assess the efficacy of different dental varnishes in prevention of demineralization of enamel along the orthodontic brackets. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 60 premolars that do not have caries and were extracted for orthodontic purposes were used in this study. Transbond™ Plus was used to bond premolar brackets onto the treated surface of enamel. The teeth were then divided into three groups. Group I: Profluorid varnish, group II: CPP-ACP varnish, and group III: Duraflor™ varnish. A Vickers diamond indenter was used to assess the microhardness of the surface of enamel at baseline, fourth day, and seventh day. RESULTS: A slightly meaner surface microhardness (SMH; 334.20 ± 2.10) was seen in group III when compared with group I (332.16 ± 3.02) and group II (330.40 ± 2.02). The mean SMH was 342.02 ± 0.82 in group I on the fourth day which was slightly higher than that of the baseline values, followed by group III (339.48 ± 0.34) and group II (336.64 ± 1.14). No statistically significant differences were noted between the groups. A higher mean microhardness of 349.84 ± 0.66 was seen in group I on the seventh day, followed by group III (342.26 ± 1.08) and group II (338.18 ± 1.08). A statistically highly significant difference was seen between the groups. CONCLUSION: The present study concluded Profluorid varnish to have maximum potential to reduce demineralization of enamel followed by Duraflor and casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP) group. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: A most common clinical challenge encountered in orthodontic clinical practice is enamel demineralization or white spot lesion (WSL) development throughout the fixed appliance treatment. Thus, the information about several available varnishes is important to prevent demineralization in regular dental practice.

Persistence in gestural communication predicts sociality in wild chimpanzees.

A key challenge for primates is coordinating behaviour with conspecifics in large, complex social groups. Gestures play a key role in this process and chimpanzees show considerable flexibility communicating through single gestures, sequences of gestures interspersed with periods of response waiting (persistence), and rapid sequences where gestures are made in quick succession, too rapid for the response waiting to have occurred. The previous studies examined behavioural reactions to single gestures and sequences, but whether this complexity is associated with more complex sociality at the level of the dyad partner and the group as a whole is not well understood. We used social network analysis to examine how the production of single gestures and sequences of gestures was related to the duration of time spent in proximity and individual differences in proximity in wild East African chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes schweinfurthii). Pairs of chimpanzees that spent a longer duration of time in proximity had higher rates of persistence sequences, but not a higher rate of single gestures or rapid sequences. The duration of time spent in proximity was also related to the rate of responding to gestures, and response to gesture by activity change. These results suggest that communicative persistence and the type of response to gestures may play an important role in regulating social interactions in primate societies.

Evaluation of Different Pretreatment Efficacy with Fluoride-releasing Material on Shear Bond Strength of Orthodontic Bracket: An In Vitro Study.

AIM: The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of different pretreatments with fluoride-releasing material on shear bond strength (SBS) of orthodontic bracket. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 60 human mandibular premolars were taken in this study. These samples were stored in periodically changed distilled water at room temperature so as to stop bacterial growth. All samples were randomized to three pretreatment groups: group I, acid etching; group II, fluoride varnish; group III, casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP) paste. Later, Transbond XT was applied on brackets made of stainless steel and brackets were centered buccally and then light-cured. The INSTRON universal machine was used to measure SBS. Based on the values, the adhesive remnant index (ARI) was estimated. RESULTS: The maximum SBS was seen in group III (18.84 µ 1.04), followed by group II (14.18 µ 0.23), and the minimum bond strength was found in group I (13.90 µ 1.22). The one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed high statistically significant difference within the pretreatment groups. The pretreatment group comparisons showed statistically significant difference between group I vs group III and group II vs group III. Score 0 was more in group III [8 (40%)] followed by group II [4 (20%)] and group I [2 (10%)]. The lowest number of score 3 was found in CPP-ACP paste group. After comparing the ARI scores within the groups, the Chi-square test showed a probability of 0.001 which was statistically significant. CONCLUSION: Our study established that the CPP-ACP paste pretreatment improves the SBS of orthodontic bracket significantly followed by fluoride varnish and acid etching. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The bond strength of orthodontic brackets that were bonded should be adequate to resist orthodontic forces applied during treatment. The effect of the adhesive material to improve the adequate bond strength depends on the efficient pretreatment methods.

Evaluation of the Bond Strength of Universal Tray Adhesives on Silicone Impression Materials Using an Acrylic Tray.

AIM: To evaluate the bond strength of two commercially available universal tray adhesives on polyvinylsiloxane addition silicone and condensation silicone impression materials to an autopolymerizing polymethyl methacrylate acrylic tray material. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty flat square specimens were fabricated from autopolymerizing polymethyl methacrylate tray material to which an eye hook was incorporated to serve as the point of attachment to a universal testing machine. A polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipe of 15 mm diameter and 25 mm long was used to house the impression material, and a metal rod was inserted into two centered holes to provide retention that serves as the second point of attachment to the universal testing machine. The specimens were divided into 4 groups of 15 specimens each. The first and second groups of specimens were applied with Coltene and Zhermack universal tray adhesives and tested with addition silicone impression material. The third and fourth groups were coated with the above-mentioned adhesives, respectively, and tested with condensation silicone. Each specimen was then attached to the universal testing machine. The maximum force at which separation failure occurred was divided by the area of adhesion and recorded as the adhesive strength in MPa. RESULTS: A significant difference was observed between mean MPa values of Zhermack and Colten universal tray adhesives, where the F value of 1314.116 was found to be significant at 0.000 levels indicating that the Zhermack adhesive had higher MPa than Coltene adhesive. Impression material again indicated significant difference (F = 132.514; p = 0.000), where addition silicone had higher MPa value than condensation silicone. Also, the interaction between adhesive and impression material was found to be significant (F = 10.794; p = 0.002). CONCLUSION: The adhesive bond strength of Zhermack universal tray adhesive was higher compared to that of Coltene universal tray adhesive irrespective of the elastomeric impression material. It was also found that bond strength of Zhermack universal tray adhesive with addition silicone impression material was the highest and Coltene universal tray adhesive with condensation silicone impression material was the least of all the four groups. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Tray adhesives need to be applied to the tray to obtain an accurate and consistent impression. If there is a separation of impression materials from the tray, it may results in a distorted impression leading to poor final restorations.

In vitro Analysis of Shear Bond Strength and Adhesive Remnant Index of Stainless Steel Brackets with Different Adhesive Systems to Enamel.

AIM: This study aimed at evaluating and comparing the bond strength of stainless steel brackets bonded with multiple orthodontic adhesives. MATERIALS AND METHODS: About 60 premolars extracted to create space during orthodontic treatment were included in the present study. Premolar stainless steel brackets of size 0.022" slot with the surface area of bracket base of 11.15 mm2 were used. The premolars were divided randomly into three groups of 20 in each. Group I: Conventional Acid Etching (Transbond XT); group II: Seventh-generation adhesive materials (Xeno V); and group III: Flowable composite (Filtek Z350 XT). Calculation of Adhesive Remnant Index (ARI) was done and shear bond strength was assessed. The probability level of 0.05 was considered as clinically significant. RESULTS: The shear bond strength was highest in group II (17.46 ± 1.36), which was followed by group I (15.33 ± 2.78) and the least was shown by group III (13.96 ± 1.44). A statistically significant difference was found between group I vs II, group II vs III, and group III vs II. Utmost prevalence of about 35% was found in Transbond XT with an ARI score of 3 (followed by all adhesive left on the tooth), Filtek Z350 XT with 20%, and the least was found with Xeno V, about 5%. The probability was found to be p = 0.025 among different groups, which is statistically significant according to chi-square test. CONCLUSION: The study concluded that the adhesive materials of the seventh generation showed higher shear bond strength than that of the flowable composite and conventional acid etching. The ARI indicated that a minimum amount of the residual adhesive was found on the surface of the enamel after debonding. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: This study helps orthodontists to select appropriate adhesive and orthodontic brackets for the benefit of the patient and to distinguish the distribution of stress homogeneously within the layer of cement while loading and subsequently minimizing the damage to the enamel during the debonding of orthodontic brackets.

Association between Cheiloscopic Patterns and ABO Blood Groups among South Indian Population.

BACKGROUND: Human beings have few characteristics that are unique from others. Lip prints are one of such feature. They are not changed throughout the life and are not influenced by injuries, diseases, or environmental changes. According to the various antigen-antibody reactions in the bloodstream, different individuals have specific blood groups. AIM: To study the distribution of lip print patterns among individuals with different ABO and Rh blood groups and also to know the relation between their characters and blood groups. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In the present study, lip prints were collected randomly from 85 individuals, and their blood group matching was performed. This is to identify the most common lip print type and to know any association between lip print types and blood groups. Tsuchihashi's classification of lip prints was used to compare with the ABO and Rh blood grouping systems. RESULTS: It was observed that in individuals with B+, A+, and O- blood groups, predominant pattern was Type IV and individuals having blood group O+ and AB+ common lip print pattern was Type II. CONCLUSION: This study showed strong association between lip print patterns and ABO blood groups as some blood groups were not included in statistical analysis; further studies including larger sample are essential to substantiate the results. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Correlating lip print with blood group helps in identification of the suspects. Along with lip prints, another biological record that remains unchanged throughout the lifetime of a person is the blood group. Determining the blood group of a person from the samples obtained at the site of crime and also recovering lip prints from site can help identify a person.

Comparative Study of Piezoelectric and Rotary Osteotomy Technique for Third Molar Impaction.

INTRODUCTION: Bone removal is necessary for extracting the third molars that are erupted, partially erupted, and/or impacted in bone. Hence, it is necessary to choose a surgical method or instruments that conform to anatomic landmarks and are based on physiological principles. Many authors have reported injuries to the adjacent tooth, especially the distal part of periodontium after removal of second molar. Hence, the present study was undertaken to assess and compare the surgical and postsurgi-cal outcomes of third molar removal using piezoelectric surgery and rotary bur. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 30 healthy adult individuals who were in need of prophylactic removal of impacted man-dibular third molar tooth with ideal condition were included for the study. Individuals were divided randomly into study groups of 15 each, so that the difficulty of surgery will be the same in both the groups. Group I - piezoelectric osteotomy technique and group II - rotary osteotomy technique. The rotary device consists of a hand piece and a rotary speed ranging around 35,000 rpm was used. The piezoelectric device consists of a hand piece, and a frequency of 25 to 29 kHz with a microvibration of 60 to 200 mm/sec was used with a boosted working mode. Data were analyzed using unpaired t-test and qualitative data were analyzed using Fischer's exact test. RESULTS: The average age of the study subjects in the piezo-surgery group and rotary group was 28.40 ± 2.69 and 30.06 ± 3.15 years respectively. The time taken for removal of impacted tooth by rotary bur was less than that by piezoelectric device, which was significant statistically (p < 0.05). Until the 4th postoperative day, severity of pain experienced was more in the rotary group, which was statistically significant (p < 0.005). Mouth opening was significantly better in the piezoelectric group as compared with rotary bur until the 7th postoperative day. CONCLUSION: The piezosurgery method reduces postoperative pain, trismus, and swelling. Also, it may play an important role in increasing bone density within the extraction socket and decreasing the amount of bone loss of adjacent tooth in the distal aspect. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: In clinical practice, piezosurgery plays an important role because piezosurgery reduces postoperative pain, trismus, and also swelling.

An in vitro Evaluation of Friction Characteristics of Conventional Stainless Steel and Self-ligating Stainless Steel Brackets with different Dimensions of Archwires in Various Bracket-archwire Combination.

AIM: The purpose of this research is to compare the frictional attributes of stainless steel conventional brackets and self-ligating stainless steel brackets with different dimensions of archwires. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The test was carried with two sets of maxillary brackets: (1) Conventional stainless steel (Victory Series), (2) stainless steel self-ligating (SmartClip) without first premolar brackets. Stainless steel, nickel-titanium (NiTi), and beta-Ti which are the types of orthodontic wire alloys were tested in this study. To monitor the frictional force, a universal testing machine (Instron 33R 4467) that comprises 10 kg tension load cell was assigned on a range of 1 kg and determined from 0 to 2 kg, which allows moving of an archwire along the brackets. One-way analysis of variance was used to test the difference between groups. To analyze the statistical difference between the two groups, Student's t-test was used. RESULTS: For Victory Series in static friction, p-value was 0.946 and for kinetic friction it was 0.944; at the same time for SmartClip, the p value for static and kinetic frictional resistance was 0.497 and 0.518 respectively. Hence, there was no statistically significant difference between the NiTi and stainless steel archwires. CONCLUSION: It is concluded that when compared with conventional brackets with stainless steel ligatures, self-ligating brackets can produce significantly less friction during sliding. Beta-Ti archwires expressed high amount of frictional resistance and the stainless steel archwires comprise low frictional resistance among all the archwire materials. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: In orthodontics, frictional resistance has always had a major role. Its ability to impair tooth movement leads to the need for higher forces to move the teeth and it extends the treatment time which results in loss of posterior anchorage. Friction in orthodontics is related with sliding mechanics when a wire is moving through one or a series of bracket slots.

Noninvasive Technique for Estimating Blood Glucose Levels among Diabetic Patients.

AIM: The present study was aimed to assess the fasting and postprandial gingival crevicular blood (GCB) glucose and finger stick blood glucose measurements using a glucometer. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 30 subjects with periodontitis and positive bleeding on probing were considered. Subjects were instructed to report to the department after overnight fasting. Gingival crevicular blood samples were collected from anterior region showing bleeding on probing followed by finger stick blood sample collection. Then, the patients were instructed to take 75 gm of glucose and after 2 hours blood samples from two sites were collected similarly. Results were analyzed using unpaired t test and Pearson's correlation. RESULTS: Mean glucose levels form GCB and finger stick blood did not differ either during fasting or postprandial (p > 0.05). Significant correlation was found between GCB glucose levels and capillary finger stick blood (CFB) glucose levels during fasting (r = 0.946, p < 0.001) and postprandial (r=0.930, p < 0.001) blood estimation. CONCLUSION: Periodontal probing can be considered as an alternate noninvasive method of blood glucose estimation for screening of diabetes mellitus (DM). The technique described is safe, easy to perform, and helps to increase the frequency of diabetes screening in dental office. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The GCB from probing can be a good source of blood for estimating blood glucose levels and screening for diabetes using portable glucose monitors. Also, it will be a simple and relatively inexpensive in office screening procedure for any patient suspected to have diabetes.

Evaluation of Two Facebow/Semi-adjustable Articulator Systems for Orienting Maxillary Cast on Articulators: A Pilot Study.

AIM: The present study was aimed to assess the transferability of occlusal plane (OP) orientation from the patient to the articulators with the help of two different facebow systems and evaluated with a gold standard. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty dentate patients were selected for the study. Two semi-adjustable arcon articulators that are Hanau Wide(®) Vue using SpringBow and Whip Mix(®) using quick-mount facebow were used in the study. Mean angle between OP to horizontal reference plane obtained from Hanau Wide Vue articulator system (SpringBow using Orbitale as anterior reference point) and Whip Mix articulator system (quickmount facebow using nasion as anterior reference point) was tabulated. These values obtained were further compared with each other and evaluated against cephalometric evidence, which was considered as the gold standard for the study. Descriptive statistics, analysis of variance, Scheffe post hoc analysis for group comparison, and level of significance (P) was calculated using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 16 (IBM, New York, USA) software program. RESULTS: Intragroup comparison of mean angle OP values showed highly significant difference (p = 0.000). Comparison between Hanau Wide Vue articulator system and Whip Mix articulator system showed statistically highly significant with a mean difference of 10.51° with Hanau system values being lower than Whip Mix system. Difference between Hanau system and cephalometric values were statistically significant with a mean difference of 2.835° and Hanau system consistently recording lower values than cephalometric values. Difference between Whip Mix system and cephalometric values was also statistically significant with a mean difference of 7.680° with group 2 values were on average 7.680° higher than group 3. CONCLUSION: Within the limitations of this study, the Hanau system and Whip Mix system showed significant difference in reproduction of angle between OP and horizontal reference plane. Hanau articulator system showed closer values to that of cephalometric values in comparison with Whip Mix articulator system. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Orientation of the maxillary cast in an articulator is a crucial part of several techniques used in dentistry. Orientation of maxillary cast in the articulator acts as a baseline from which further steps for occlusal rehabilitation of the patients are carried out. Recording and transferring of the occlusal cant to articulators require facebow.

Evaluation of Different Bracket's Resistance to Torsional Forces from Archwire.

AIM: The present study was aimed to evaluate the resistance to deformation or fracture of brackets of various materials (ceramic, ceramic reinforced with metal slot, and stainless steel brackets) with archwires during application of torque. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The sample size included 30 brackets of maxillary right central incisor with slot dimension of 0.022 × 0.028" and made of three materials (10 of each type): (1) Ceramic brackets (cer), (2) ceramic brackets reinforced with stainless steel slot (cer/ss), and (3) stainless steel brackets (metal). Thirty stainless steel archwire segments of 0.019 × 0.025" SS 5 cm in length were used. Elastomeric ties were also used in this study. RESULTS: Highest to lowest deformation or fracture torque found is as follows: Stainless steel brackets (5713.2 gfmm), metal ceramic reinforced with metal slot brackets (4080.8 gfmm), and ceramic brackets (3476 gfmm). CONCLUSION: Stainless steel brackets showed significantly higher values of torsional load than ceramic brackets reinforced with metal slot and ceramic brackets. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Clinically orthodontic treatment is based on specific force applications to the dentition, the maxilla and the mandible. In order to obtain these forces, orthodontic brackets are attached to the teeth. Most commonly used brackets are metal (stainless steel), ceramic, and combination of metal reinforced ceramic brackets. For successful orthodontic treatment, it is necessary to maintain proper torque and avoid torque loss. Torque loss leads to deepening of bite. Torque loss occurs due to many reasons, one of them being bracket failure to withstand applied torque.

Effect of Neem containing Toothpaste on Plaque and Gingivitis--A Randomized Double Blind Clinical Trial.

AIM: The present study was designed to assess the effect of toothpaste containing neem on plaque and gingivitis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Randomized, double blind clinical trial was designed. Thirty first year dental students volunteered to participate in the study. Neem containing tooth paste was used as an intervention. Clinical examination was carried out using Silness and Loe plaque index (PI) and Loe and Silness gingival index (GI). Independent t-test and paired t-test was used for the intergroup and the intragroup comparison. RESULTS: Out of 30 participants, 22 (73.3%) were females and eight (26.7%) were males. A statistically significant difference was found between the test and control group after intervention with respect to the PI and GI. CONCLUSION: Neem containing toothpaste can be used as an adjunct for maintenance of oral hygiene. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Regular brushing with neem toothpaste might act as an adjunct to maintenance of good oral hygiene, and thus improve oral health.

Effect of Dental Varnishes in Prevention of Enamel Demineralization Adjacent to Orthodontic Brackets.

Aim: The aim of the current research was to assess the ability of different dental varnishes in averting enamel demineralization adjoining the orthodontic brackets. Materials and Methods: Seventy-five premolars devoid of dental caries that were subjected to extraction for orthodontic purposes were employed in this research. The surface of enamel was etched with 37% phosphoric acid and subjected to primer application. Individual brackets were placed on the midregion of the buccal surfaces of the premolars with Transbond™ XT adhesive. Postbracket bonding, the dry premolar tooth samples were set aside cautiously. The samples were then allocated to three groups: Group I: Duraphat Varnish, Group II: Clinpro XT Varnish, and Group III: Profluorid Varnish. Every sample was independently subjected to immersion in demineralizing solution for a period of 96 h at 37°C in an incubator. Areas of demineralization were evaluated by documenting the microhardness along the severed surface using a microhardness tester equipped with a Vickers diamond. Results: The highest surface microhardness was noted with Profluorid Varnish group at 328.48 ± 1.12 in pursuit by Clinpro XT Varnish group at 322.08 ± 0.04 as well as Duraphat Varnish group at 307.42 ± 0.28 with a statistically noteworthy dissimilarity amid the groups. Conclusion: In conclusion, the three varnishes employed had an influence on the prevention of enamel demineralization surrounding the orthodontic brackets. Profluorid varnish however exhibited maximum efficiency in avoiding enamel demineralization versus Clinpro XT varnish as well as Duraphat varnish group.

Responses to autobiographical memories involving being a victim or perpetrator of betrayal in people with OCD and community controls.

Mental contamination in people with OCD has been linked to the perceived impact of being betrayed and betraying others. In this study, participants with OCD (N = 56) and community controls (N = 37) were randomised to an induction involving eliciting autobiographical memories of either being betrayed by someone they trusted or betraying someone that trusted them. The OCD group experienced greater increases in state mental contamination and anxiety than the control group, but no differences were observed between groups in urges to wash or drink. Both betrayal conditions elicited similar levels of mental contamination and anxiety. The results of this study suggest that people with OCD experience similar increases in mental contamination and anxiety not only when recalling memories of being a victim of betrayal but also when recalling being a perpetrator. People with OCD are therefore more sensitive to betrayal experiences than community controls. Clinical implications and implications for future research are discussed.