Exploration of Sargassum wightii: Extraction, Phytochemical Analysis, and Antioxidant Potential of Polyphenol.

Background The marine environment, with its rich biodiversity and nutrient-dense ecosystems, offers immense potential for discovering novel pharmaceutical products. Sargassum wightii is a type of brown seaweed that is particularly abundant in sulfated polysaccharides and polyphenolic compounds. These compounds are renowned for their wide range of biological activities. The exploration of such marine resources is crucial for identifying new compounds that can be harnessed for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications. Aims and objectives The primary aim of this study is to explore the bioactive compounds present in S. wightii, with a specific focus on its polyphenolic content. Additionally, the study seeks to evaluate the antioxidant properties of the compound. By doing so, the research aims to contribute to the growing body of knowledge on marine bioresources and their potential health benefits. Methods S. wightii samples were collected from the Mandapam coastal region in Rameshwaram, India. The cleaned seaweed was transported to the laboratory, where it was further washed, shade-dried, and ground into a fine powder. The powdered seaweed was then subjected to extraction using four different solvents: n-hexane, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, and methanol. Phytochemical analyses were conducted on these extracts to identify the presence of various bioactive compounds. The total phenolic content of the extracts was determined, and antioxidant activity was assessed using the phosphomolybdenum method. Functional groups present in the extracts were identified using Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. Results Among the solvents used, the methanol extract yielded the highest amount of crude extract. Phytochemical analysis revealed a variety of bioactive compounds, with the methanol extract showing a notable presence of polyphenols. The total phenolic content was measured at 1.25 ± 0.6 mg gallic acid equivalence (GAE)/g of extract. The antioxidant activity, assessed through the phosphomolybdenum method, demonstrated significant free radical scavenging capabilities with an IC50 (half maximal inhibitory concentration) value of 68.23 ± 3.5 µg/mL. FT-IR spectroscopy confirmed the presence of functional groups characteristic of polyphenols and other bioactive compounds. Conclusion The study highlights the significant potential of S. wightii as a source of bioactive compounds with substantial antioxidant properties. These findings emphasize the importance of marine algae in the development of pharmaceutical and nutraceutical products, showcasing S. wightii's promising role in health-related applications.

Biocompatibility Evaluation of Ampicillin-Loaded Whitlockite for Bone Regeneration.

Introduction Whitlockite (WH), a rare phosphate mineral within the apatite group, shows potential for bone regeneration owing to its superior composition and biocompatibility compared to hydroxyapatite. It can serve as a carrier for bioactive molecules, gradually releasing them to stimulate bone growth and expedite healing. This study aims to assess the biocompatibility of antibiotic-loaded WH, focusing on ampicillin, for bone regeneration applications. Methodology WH particles loaded with varying concentrations of ampicillin (10 and 25 mM) underwent biocompatibility assessments using the MTT assay. One gram of particles was incubated in 10 mL of culture medium for 24 and 48 hours. Experimental groups included control, WH, WH with ampicillin at 10 mM (WH+A10), WH with ampicillin at 25 mM (WH+A25), and positive control treated with 0.1% Triton X detergent. Subsequently, after a three-day culture period, RunX2 gene expression, indicative of osteoblastic differentiation, was quantified using real-time PCR analysis. Results Our research evaluated the bioactivity of WH particles treated with human osteoblastic cells using the MTT assay. While 10 mM ampicillin-loaded WH showed no significant difference in metabolic activity at both 24 and 48 hours, 25 mM ampicillin-loaded WH exhibited a slight reduction in metabolic activity at 24 hours, which normalized by 48 hours. Additionally, we assessed osteogenic potential and showed a significant increase in RunX2 expression with ampicillin-loaded WH, indicating sustained osteogenic properties. Conclusions Our study underscores the promising biocompatibility of WH particles by retaining their osteogenic properties even when, loaded with ampicillin, offering a potential avenue for future bone regeneration strategies.

Titanium- and Strontium-Infused Calcium Silicates Toward Restorative and Regenerative Purposes.

BACKGROUND: Dental materials with dentine regenerative properties are preferred over conventional materials. Calcium silicate cements, such as Biodentine, are bioactive and offer excellent sealing ability, making them ideal for various dental treatments. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to fabricate bioactive calcium silicates infused with titanium (Ti) and strontium (Sr) to optimize their neo-angiogenic, antimicrobial, and regenerative properties while maintaining mechanical stability. METHODOLOGY: Ti- and Sr-infused calcium silicate cements were synthesized, and their mineral phases were characterized using X-ray diffraction. Morphological and elemental analyses were performed using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). Raman spectroscopy was used to confirm the formation of bioactive material. A hemocompatibility assessment was conducted to evaluate blood compatibility. RESULTS: The presence of Ca2, SiO4, and SrTiO3 mineral phases indicated the successful infusion of Ti and Sr into the calcium silicate cement. FESEM and EDS revealed interconnected small spheres and rods in the silicate network with the relevant elemental compositions. Raman spectra verified that Si-O-Si and Ti-O-Ti vibrations exist, validating the formation of a bioactive material. The hemocompatibility assessment demonstrated optimal blood compatibility. CONCLUSIONS: This study successfully fabricated an improved calcium silicate-based material with enhanced regenerative properties and excellent biocompatibility. This newly formed substrate holds promise for providing superior restorative solutions and aiding in conservative treatment modalities during dental procedures.

Analyzing the Surface Topography of Hafnium Nitride Coating on Titanium Screws: An In Vitro Analysis.

Background The use of surface coatings to enhance the properties lacking in titanium has attracted significant focus in recent times. Hafnium nitride (HfN) coatings could be explored as promising in the osteoinductive properties of titanium implants. HfN exhibits excellent mechanical attributes, such as hardness and wear resistance, and is often used as a coating on high-end equipment for protection. The findings from this research may carve a new path for the production and optimization of HfN coatings to enhance the longevity and augment properties of implant materials. Thus, the present study was orchestrated to elucidate the surface morphology of HfN coating, ultimately contributing to the advancement of dental implant biomaterials. Materials and methods A total of twenty samples of medical grade commercially pure titanium screws (2 mm diameter and 7 mm length) were procured from G. R. Bioure Surgical System Pvt. Ltd., Ravali, Uttar Pradesh, India, and ten samples were reacted with HfN (0.1 M) (Nano Research Elements, Kurukshetra, Haryana, India) in 100% ethanol and stirred continuously for about 48 hours. Then these screw samples were immersed in the prepared colloidal suspension and sintered for two hours at 400 degrees centigrade. The implant screws were affixed onto metal supports. The magnifications for photomicrographs at ×30, ×200, ×1,500, ×3,000, and ×5,000 were standardized. Elementary semi-quantitative analysis of both dental implants was conducted using energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDX) coupled with the field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM) equipment (JEOL Ltd., Akishima, Tokyo, Japan). The software used for the analysis of the obtained images is SEM Center. Results The surface analysis using the scanning electron microscope (SEM) showed the coating of HfN over titanium screws. The difference in surface morphology of both the group of implant screws can be visualized under 40.0 and 10.0 mm working distance (WD) for both groups. The surface analysis using the EDX of uncoated titanium screws shows five elements in the spectrum: titanium (Ti), oxygen (O), aluminum (Al), carbon (C), and vanadium (V). The EDX of the HfN-coated screws has two additional metals dispersed in the spectrum, hafnium (Hf). The element characteristics are tabulated with their apparent concentration, k ratio, line type, weight percentage, standard label, and factory label for uncoated titanium screws and HfN-coated titanium screws. Conclusion The study evaluated HfN coating over medical grade commercially pure titanium. The surface topography of coated versus uncoated was visualized. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) images showed a homogenous coating over the titanium surfaces, and the EDX showed elemental dispersion of the coated implant. The study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the coating's surface morphology, which will aid in the development of more durable and biocompatible implants. This thereby provides a promising scope for further research of this novel metal coating for use in the biomedical sectors, specifically for dental implants.

Advanced photocatalytic materials based degradation of micropollutants and their use in hydrogen production - a review.

The use of pharmaceuticals, dyes, and pesticides in modern healthcare and agriculture, along with expanding industrialization, heavily contaminates aquatic environments. This leads to severe carcinogenic implications and critical health issues in living organisms. The photocatalytic methods provide an eco-friendly solution to mitigate the energy crisis and environmental pollution. Sunlight-driven photocatalytic wastewater treatment contributes to hydrogen production and valuable product generation. The removal of contaminants from wastewater through photocatalysis is a highly efficient method for enhancing the ecosystem and plays a crucial role in the dual-functional photocatalysis process. In this review, a wide range of catalysts are discussed, including heterojunction photocatalysts and various hybrid semiconductor photocatalysts like metal oxides, semiconductor adsorbents, and dual semiconductor photocatalysts, which are crucial in this dual function of degradation and green fuel production. The effects of micropollutants in the ecosystem, degradation efficacy of multi-component photocatalysts such as single-component, two-component, three-component, and four-component photocatalysts were discussed. Dual-functional photocatalysis stands out as an energy-efficient and cost-effective method. We have explored the challenges and difficulties associated with dual-functional photocatalysts. Multicomponent photocatalysts demonstrate superior efficiency in degrading pollutants and producing hydrogen compared to their single-component counterparts. Dual-functional photocatalysts, incorporating TiO2, g-C3N4, CeO2, metal organic frameworks (MOFs), layered double hydroxides (LDHs), and carbon quantum dots (CQDs)-based composites, exhibit remarkable performance. The future of synergistic photocatalysis envisions large-scale production facilitate integrating advanced 2D and 3D semiconductor photocatalysts, presenting a promising avenue for sustainable and efficient pollutant degradation and hydrogen production from environmental remediation technologies.

Histological validation of in-vivo larvicidal efficacy of marine Streptomyces sp. RD06 secondary metabolites against filariasis causing Culex quinquefasciatus and statistical media optimization for larvicidal derivatives production.

Mosquito-borne disease pandemics, such as the Zika virus and chikungunya, have escalated cognizance of how critical it is to implement proficient mosquito vector control measures. The prevention of Culicidae is becoming more difficult these days because of the expeditious imminence of synthetic pesticide resistance and the universal expansion of tremendously invasive mosquito vectors. The present study highlights the insecticidal and larvicidal efficacy of the prospective novel actinobacterium derived from the marine Streptomyces sp. RD06 secondary metabolites against Culex quinquefasciatus mosquito. The pupicidal activity of Streptomyces sp. RD06 showed LC50=199.22 ± 11.54 and LC90= 591.84 ± 55.41 against the pupa. The purified bioactive metabolites 1, 2-Benzenedicarboxylic acid, diheptyl ester from Streptomyces sp. RD06 exhibited an LC50 value of 154.13 ± 10.50 and an LC90 value of 642.84 ± 74.61 tested against Cx. quinquefasciatus larvae. The Streptomyces sp. RD06 secondary metabolites exhibited 100 % non-hatchability at 62.5 ppm, and 82 % of hatchability was observed at 250 ppm. In addition, media optimization showed that the highest biomass production was attained at a temperature of 41.44 °C, pH 9.23, nitrogen source 11.43 mg/ml, and carbon source 150 mg/ml. Compared to control larvae, the histology and confocal microscopy results showed destruction to the anal gill, lumen content, and epithelial layer residues in the treated larvae. Utilizing an eco-friendly method, these alternative inventive insecticidal derivatives from Streptomyces sp. RD06 eradicates Culex quinquefasciatus. This study highlights the promising potential of these Streptomyces sp. RD06 secondary metabolites to develop affordable and efficacious mosquito larvicides to replace synthetic insecticides in the future.

Denture base materials: An in vitro evaluation of the mechanical and color properties.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to compare the physical and mechanical properties of four denture base materials: Polyan IC (PA), milled polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), three-dimensional (3D)-printed resin (3DP), and SR Ivocap (SR). METHODS: Ninety-six samples were prepared and divided into four groups as follows. Group A consisted of 3DP (Asiga DentaBASE, Asiga) fabricated using a manufacturer-recommended 3D printer (Asiga Pro 4k, Asiga). Group B comprised milled PMMA (MP) (Ivotion Base, Ivoclar Vivadent). Group C included PA (BredentSenden), meanwhile, group D involved SR (Ivoclar VivadentSchaan). Cuboid samples (65 mm x 10 mm x 2.5 mm) were used for biaxial flexure strength testing in a universal testing machine (UTM). Cylindrical samples of 20 mm x 40 mm were used for compressive strength testing in a UTM. Additionally, cuboid samples (65 mm x 10 mm x 2.5 mm) were used for Vickers surface hardness testing in a microhardness tester. disk samples (10 mm x 2.5 mm) were employed for color stability testing both in a coffee solution and Coca-Cola, using a digital spectrophotometer. Statistical analyses were performed using one-way analysis of variance and Tukey's post hoc analysis (α=0.05). RESULTS: MP demonstrated superior compressive strength (p = 0.002) and color stability compared to that exhibited by 3DP (p < 0.001) while displaying similar flexure strength (p = 0.336) and hardness (p = 0.708). MP and PA displayed similar compressive strength (p = 0.081), flexure strength (p = 0.159), and color stability in coke (p = 0.071). However, MP had reduced hardness (p < 0.001) and color stability in coffee (p < 0.001). Moreover, MP demonstrated a higher compressive strength (p < 0.001) than that displayed by SR. However, the flexure strength, hardness, and color stability were similar (p > 0.05). Furthermore, 3DP exhibited comparable compressive strength (p = 0.334) to that of PA but demonstrated significantly lower flexure strength (p = 0.005), hardness (p < 0.001), and color stability (p < 0.001) compared to PA. In comparison to SR, PA had a higher compressive strength (p < 0.001), hardness (p = 0.001), and color stability in coffee (p < 0.001), although they demonstrated similar (p > 0.05) flexure strength and color stability in coke. CONCLUSIONS: The MP and PA demonstrated superior compressive strength than that exhibited by the other materials tested. The tested materials had similar flexure strengths, except for PA which demonstrated superiority over the 3DP. Among all tested materials, PA exhibited the highest hardness, while the 3DP was the least color-stable. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Considering the mechanical properties and color stability, Polyan and milled polymethylmethacrylate are preferred for complete denture fabrication. However, the limited repairability and complex handling of Polyan should be considered.

Evaluation of the Success of Autogenous Block Grafting in Atrophic Maxillary and Mandibular Ridges Prior to and After Implant Placement.

BACKGROUND: Dental implantology's success relies on adequate bone volume and quality, necessitating bone augmentation for implant placement. Primary lateral bone augmentation, utilizing autogenous block grafts, addresses horizontal bone loss. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of autogenous block grafting, specifically ramus and fibula blocks, in addressing severe atrophic ridges before and after implant placement. METHODS: Twenty-one patients underwent block grafting, predominantly using the ramus technique (80/20 ratio). CBCT measurements assessed horizontal grafting outcomes. Implant success and bone volume changes were analyzed. RESULTS: Post-grafting, bone width increased from 1.8-3.1 mm to 4.5-6 mm, exceeding critical thresholds. Implant success reached 95%, indicating the grafting techniques' effectiveness. CONCLUSION: Autogenous block grafting, especially with ramus and fibula blocks, transforms severe atrophic ridges, enabling successful implant integration. Long-term follow-up is essential for a comprehensive evaluation. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This study provides crucial insights into autogenous block grafting's transformative impact on challenging cases, guiding future applications in reconstructive dentistry.

Assessment of Antimicrobial Activity of Nanocomposites Based on Nano-Hydroxyapatite (HAP), Chitosan, and Vitamin K2.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial potential of nanocomposites containing vitamin K2, hydroxyapatite nanoparticles (nHAP), and chitosan (Chito)-coated dental implants against clinically relevant microbial strains. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Four test compounds were prepared: vitamin K2 + nHAP, K2 + Chito + nHAP, vitamin K2, and vitamin K2 + Chito. Agar well diffusion test was conducted to assess the antimicrobial activity of these compounds against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans), Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis), and Candida albicans (C. albicans). Results: The vitamin K2 + nHAP nanocomposite exhibited antimicrobial activity against all tested microorganisms, with E. faecalis showing the highest sensitivity (25 mm zone of inhibition at 100 µL concentration). The K2 + Chito + nHAP nanocomposite demonstrated potent antimicrobial activity with C. albicans displaying the highest sensitivity (28 mm zone of inhibition at 100 µL concentration). Pure vitamin K2 showed limited antimicrobial activity, vitamin K2 combined with chitosan exhibited significant susceptibility to C. albicans, resulting in a substantial inhibition zone of 24 mm diameter at a concentration of 100 µL. CONCLUSION: The synergistic effects of vitamin K2 with nHAP and chitosan highlight the potential of these nanocomposites for biomedical applications. These findings contribute to the development of effective nanocomposites to address antimicrobial resistance and improve infection control in various biomedical fields.

Therapeutic evaluation of titanium dioxide nanoparticles based herbal dental varnish derived from rosemary and ginger extracts:A comprehensive investigation into anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

BACKGROUND: Titanium nanoparticles (NPs) offer promising applications in the treatment and prevention of inflammatory disorders due to their unique physicochemical characteristics. However, additional research is necessary to attain a thorough comprehension and validate the efficacy of this approach in dental practice. OBJECTIVE: This study scrutinizes the anti-inflammatory properties of a dental varnish infused with ginger and rosemary extracts mediated by titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles. METHODS: A herbal dental varnish was formulated by integrating ginger and rosemary extracts with titanium dioxide nanoparticles at concentrations of 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 µL. Anti-inflammatory properties were assessed through Bovine Serum Albumin denaturation and membrane stabilization assays, comparing results with a control group. RESULTS: The results reveal concentration-dependent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in the test group when compared to the control group. The BSA assay corroborates increased percent inhibition with rising titanium dioxide nanoparticle concentrations. In line with existing literature, titanium dioxide nanoparticles enhance dental material properties. CONCLUSION: The bioactive compounds in ginger and rosemary, such as phenolic compounds and terpenes, contribute to anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of the varnish. Additionally, the therapeutic potential of titanium dioxide nanoparticles in addressing inflammatory diseases underscores their significance in this formulation.

Effectiveness of Photobiomodulation With Low-Level Laser Therapy on the Implant Stability Quotient at Different Time Intervals: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

Background Photobiomodulation techniques, particularly low-level laser therapy (LLLT), have gained traction due to their ability to accelerate osseointegration by stimulating cellular metabolism and promoting tissue healing. This study explores the effectiveness of LLLT around dental implants at various intervals after placement. Using resonance frequency analysis (RFA), the implant stability quotient (ISQ) was measured to assess implant stability. Methodology This split-mouth, randomized, single-blinded clinical trial included 20 participants undergoing dental implant placement. The test group received LLLT while the control group had no laser treatment. Implant stability was assessed using RFA at one, two, four, and twelve weeks post-implant placement. Statistical analysis involved descriptive statistics, repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA), and t-tests. Results The repeated-measures ANOVA analysis showed significant differences in the ISQ values between the LLLT group and the control group at two weeks and three months post-implant placement. The LLLT group exhibited higher ISQ values, indicating greater implant stability and improved osseointegration compared to the control group. These findings suggest the potential benefits of LLLT in enhancing dental implant outcomes. Conclusions LLLT shows promise in improving dental implant outcomes, with enhanced stability and osseointegration. Further research is needed to validate these results and integrate LLLT into routine dental implant procedures.

Treatment of dental biofilm-forming bacterium Streptococcus mutans using tannic acid-mediated gold nanoparticles.

Biosynthesized gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are highly attracted as a biocompatible nanodrug to treat various diseased conditions in humans. In this study, phytochemical tannic acid-mediated AuNPs (TA-AuNPs) are successfully synthesized and tested for antibacterial and antibiofilm activity against dental biofilm-forming Streptococcus mutans biofilm. The synthesized TA-AuNPs are appeared as spherical in shape with an average size of 19 nm. The antibacterial potential of TA-AuNPs was evaluated using ZOI and MIC measurements; while, antibiofilm efficacy was measured by checking the eradication of preformed biofilm on the tooth model. The ZOI and MIC values for TA-AuNPs are 25 mm in diameter and 4 µg/mL, respectively. The MTT assay, CLSM, and SEM results demonstrate that the preformed S. mutans biofilm is completely eradicated at 4xMIC (16 µg/mL) of TA-AuNPs. Finally, the present study reveals that the synthesized TA-AuNPs might be a great therapeutic drug to treat dental biofilm-forming bacterium S. mutans.

Zinc and Silver-Infused Calcium Silicate Cement: Unveiling Physicochemical Properties and In Vitro Biocompatibility.

INTRODUCTION: Calcium silicate-based types of cement have gained recognition in various dental applications due to their exceptional sealing capabilities, bioactivity, and minimal adaptability. However, these materials have certain shortcomings that can lead to mechanical failures and premature degradation. The inclusion of metal ions into their structure is expected to promote their biological activity. This article focuses on the preparation and characterization of calcium silicate cement to enhance its fundamental material properties, by introducing zinc and silver while retaining its biomaterial characteristics. AIM: This study aims to evaluate the biomedical potential of zinc and silver-impregnated bioactive calcium silicate cement. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The calcium silicate powder was synthesized via the sol-gel method. Tetraethyl orthosilicate, calcium nitrate, silver nitrate, and zinc nitrate were sequentially added to create the bioactive calcium silicate material. The synthesized particles underwent physicochemical characterization using techniques such as scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, and biological characterization through in vitro hemocompatibility assays. RESULTS: The study's results revealed the presence of multiple crystalline phases (Ag6Si2O7, Zn2SiO4, CaCO3) as indicated by X-ray diffraction. Raman spectra displayed vibrations associated with Si-O-Si and Zn-O bonding in the zinc and silver-infused bioactive calcium silicate. Scanning electron microscopy confirmed a mixture of spherical and sheet-like morphologies, while energy dispersive spectra confirmed the presence of elements Ca, Si, Zn, Ag, O, and C. In vitro hemocompatibility testing affirmed the material's biocompatible nature. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, the zinc and silver-infused calcium silicate cement was successfully synthesized through an in-house procedure and demonstrated biocompatibility. The inclusion of zinc and silver, known for their osteogenic and antimicrobial properties, is anticipated to enhance the cement's biological properties and broaden its utility in dentistry. Further in vitro and in vivo investigations are imperative to validate its clinical applications and elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying its efficacy.

Genetic Association of the C-C Motif Chemokine Ligand 2 (CCL2) rs1024611 Polymorphism With Periodontitis.

Introduction To a large extent, a person's susceptibility to developing periodontitis is determined by their genetic makeup. Research has shown that chemokines generated during an immune response can harm the periodontal ligaments, gingiva, and alveolar bone. Various chemokine genes located on different chromosomes contribute to periodontitis, and one such gene is C-C motif chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2), associated with the rs1024611 polymorphism, which is part of a cytokine gene cluster on the q-arm of chromosome 17. Objective Our specific objective was to investigate whether CCL2 polymorphisms could influence the relative risk of developing periodontitis. Building on these findings, we aimed to compare the frequency of a specific single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the CCL2 gene between individuals with and without periodontitis. Materials and methods Fifty participants were enrolled in the study after obtaining informed consent and ethical clearance. Clinical assessments, including probing pocket depth, clinical attachment loss, and bleeding on probing, were utilized to classify individuals into two groups: a control group (Group A, n=25) and a periodontitis group (Group B, n=25). DNA extraction from collected samples involved drawing 2 ml of venous blood from the antecubital fossa and transferring it into a sterile tube with a pinch of ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA) to prevent clotting. DNA extraction was performed and polymorphisms of CCL2 were assessed through polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and restriction enzyme digestion. Results The periodontitis group consisted of 25 patients, with an average age of 39.0±0.22 years, who met the American Academy of Periodontology's 2018 criteria for at least stage II periodontitis. The control group comprised 25 individuals with an average age of 41.3±0.49 years. Regarding the CCL2 gene polymorphism (rs1024611), there was no substantial variation in genotype frequencies between the patients and controls (p = 0.695). An agarose gel electrophoretogram, along with a standard DNA ladder, demonstrated partial amplification of the CCL2 gene spanning the polymorphism site (rs1024611). Genotypes observed were as follows: homozygous AA - 333 bp; heterozygous AG - 333 + 250 + 73 bp; homozygous GG - 250 + 73 bp. Conclusion In conclusion, there is no significant association between the CCL2 gene polymorphism rs1024611 and susceptibility to periodontitis.

An Invitro Chewing Simulation Study Comparing the Wear Resistance Behavior of Polyetheretherketone-Layered Composite Crown and Ceramic-Layered Zirconia Crown.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to compare the wear resistance and color stability of fixed dental prostheses (FDPs) fabricated using two different materials: zirconia veneered with feldspathic porcelain and polyetheretherketone (PEEK) veneered with indirect composite. The assessment included samples subjected to thermocycling and wear simulation. METHODS: Two groups of FDPs were examined: one made of zirconia veneered with feldspathic porcelain (control and thermocycled) and the other made of PEEK veneered with indirect composite (worn and thermocycled). The samples were evaluated for wear resistance, antagonist wear, and color stability. Computer-aided design (CAD) software and a digital spectrophotometer were used for analysis. RESULTS: Zirconia veneered with porcelain demonstrated higher wear resistance compared to PEEK veneered with indirect composite. PEEK veneered with indirect composite exhibited significantly lower antagonist wear, indicating a protective effect on opposing teeth. There was no significant difference in color stability between the two groups, even after subjecting them to thermocycling and wear simulation. CONCLUSION: The study concludes that FDPs fabricated with PEEK veneered with indirect composite may have lower wear resistance compared to zirconia veneered with porcelain. However, PEEK FDPs appear to be safer for antagonists due to reduced antagonist wear. Importantly, both materials exhibited similar color stability, making PEEK a viable alternative for FDPs when aesthetic appeal and antagonist protection are primary considerations.