Porphyromonas gingivalis with collagen immunization induces ACPA-positive rheumatoid arthritis in C3H mice.

The pathogenic anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPA) are thought to play a vital role in the initiation and immune maintenance of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, it is noteworthy that ACPA is not a salient characteristic of any conventional RA animal model. Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg) is the first microorganism identified to induce citrullination and a target of autoantibodies in early rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Thus, we employed C3H mice with specific MHC types and combined Pg infection with collagen immunity to develop an animal model of ACPA-positive RA. The resulting model exhibited citrullination characteristics, as well as pathological and immune cell changes. 1) Mice showed a significant increase in ACPA levels, and various organs and tissues exhibited elevated levels of citrullinated protein. 2) The mice experienced heightened pain, inflammation, and bone destruction. 3) The spleen and lymph nodes of the mice showed a significant increase in the proportion of Tfh-GCB cell subpopulations responsible for regulating autoantibody production. In conclusion, the C3H mouse model of Pg infection with collagen immunity demonstrated significant alterations in ACPA levels, citrullinated protein expression, and immune cell subpopulations, which could be a crucial factor leading to increased pain, inflammation, and bone destruction.

Influence of exposure protocol, voxel size, and artifact removal algorithm on the trueness of segmentation utilizing an artificial-intelligence-based system.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effects of exposure protocol, voxel sizes, and artifact removal algorithms on the trueness of segmentation in various mandible regions using an artificial intelligence (AI)-based system. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Eleven dry human mandibles were scanned using a cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scanner under differing exposure protocols (standard and ultra-low), voxel sizes (0.15 mm, 0.3 mm, and 0.45 mm), and with or without artifact removal algorithm. The resulting datasets were segmented using an AI-based system, exported as 3D models, and compared to reference files derived from a white-light laboratory scanner. Deviation measurement was performed using a computer-aided design (CAD) program and recorded as root mean square (RMS). The RMS values were used as a representation of the trueness of the AI-segmented 3D models. A 4-way ANOVA was used to assess the impact of voxel size, exposure protocol, artifact removal algorithm, and location on RMS values (α = 0.05). RESULTS: Significant effects were found with voxel size (p < 0.001) and location (p < 0.001), but not with exposure protocol (p = 0.259) or artifact removal algorithm (p = 0.752). Standard exposure groups had significantly lower RMS values than the ultra-low exposure groups in the mandible body with 0.3 mm (p = 0.014) or 0.45 mm (p < 0.001) voxel sizes, the symphysis with a 0.45 mm voxel size (p = 0.011), and the whole mandible with a 0.45 mm voxel size (p = 0.001). Exposure protocol did not affect RMS values at teeth and alveolar bone (p = 0.544), mandible angles (p = 0.380), condyles (p = 0.114), and coronoids (p = 0.806) locations. CONCLUSION: This study informs optimal exposure protocol and voxel size choices in CBCT imaging for true AI-based automatic segmentation with minimal radiation. The artifact removal algorithm did not influence the trueness of AI segmentation. When using an ultra-low exposure protocol to minimize patient radiation exposure in AI segmentations, a voxel size of 0.15 mm is recommended, while a voxel size of 0.45 mm should be avoided.

The 3D-printed shell complete denture technique: Simplifying prosthodontic diagnosis prior to implant planning.

Traditionally, artificial teeth arrangements or the definitive complete dentures are used to establish important prosthodontic parameters such as the occlusal plane orientation, vertical dimension, and the incisal edge position. The relationship of these elements with the underlying bony structures is commonly evaluated using advanced planning protocols such as the dual scan technique. This technique article presents an uncomplicated alternative approach to establish these parameters intraorally using a 3D-printed shell complete denture generated from a 3D scan of the patient's existing complete denture.

Color stability of precolored and extrinsically colored monolithic multilayered polychromatic zirconia: Effects of surface finishing and aging.

PURPOSE: To explore the impact of zirconia types, coloring methods, and surface finishing on the color stability of monolithic multilayered polychromatic zirconia after artificial aging, including thermocycling and simulated toothbrushing. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Eighty square-shaped zirconia samples were divided into 2 types (M3Y-TZP and M6Y-PSZ), further categorized based on coloring methods (precolored and extrinsically colored) and surface finishing techniques (mechanical polishing or glazing). The color stability was assessed using the CIEDE2000 formula. Artificial aging was simulated via thermocycling and toothbrushing. All samples were analyzed with a spectrophotometer to determine the post-aging color changes (ΔE00). The ΔE00 were interpreted and classified using the 50:50% perceptibility threshold (PT) and the 50:50% acceptability threshold (AT). Comparisons between groups for ΔE00 differences were performed using three-way ANOVA, with pairwise comparisons facilitated by Fisher's protected least significant difference test, α = 0.05. RESULTS: The study results indicated significant impacts of zirconia type, coloring method, and surface finishing on color stability. The M6Y groups experienced significantly greater color changes (6.61 ± 1.63) compared to the M3Y groups (3.40 ± 2.24), p < 0.0001. For both types of zirconia, extrinsically colored samples exhibited significantly higher ΔE00 when mechanically polished (p = 0.004). However, surface finishing had no significant effect on ΔE00 in precolored samples of either zirconia material (p = 1.000). The evaluation and categorization of ΔE00 variations indicated that nearly all color changes in the M6Y groups, regardless of being precolored, extrinsically colored, polished, or glazed, were deemed extremely unacceptable (Grade 1). In contrast, the M3Y groups showed more acceptable results, with the majority of color changes classified as moderately unacceptable (Grade 3). CONCLUSIONS: The color stability of multilayered polychromatic zirconia is influenced by the type of material, extrinsic coloring, and the chosen surface treatment post-artificial aging. The translucent 6Y-PSZ exhibited lower color stability, especially with only mechanical polishing. For the fabrication of M3Y-TZP and 6Y-PSZ monolithic multilayered polychromatic zirconia restorations, extrinsic coloring should be paired with glazing to maintain color stability. Conversely, in the absence of extrinsic coloring, both glazing and mechanical polishing are effective in preserving color stability.

Topological Gradients for Metal Film-Based Strain Sensors.

Metal film-based stretchable strain sensors hold great promise for applications in various domains, which require superior sensitivity-stretchability-cyclic stability synergy. However, the sensitivity-stretchability trade-off has been a long-standing dilemma and the metal film-based strain sensors usually suffer from weak cyclic durability, both of which significantly limit their practical applications. Here, we propose an extremely facile, low-cost and spontaneous strategy that incorporates topological gradients in metal film-based strain sensors, composed of intrinsic (grain size and interface) and extrinsic (film thickness and wrinkle) microstructures. The topological gradient strain sensor exhibits an ultrawide stretchability of 100% while simultaneously maintaining a high sensitivity at an optimal topological gradient of 4.5, due to the topological gradients-induced multistage film cracking. Additionally, it possesses a decent cyclic stability for >10 000 cycles between 0 and 40% strain enabled by the gradient-mixed metal/elastomer interfaces. It can monitor the full-range human activities from subtle pulse signals to vigorous joint movements.

Layered double hydroxides - poloxamer 188 nanocomposites based on exfoliation reassembling for improved cellular uptake and controlled delivery of methotrexate.

Exploitation of advanced methotrexate (MTX) delivery with nanocomposites has important clinical application value. Poloxamer 188 micelle and layered double hydroxide loaded with MTX (LDH-MTX) by exfoliation reassembling were used to prepare LDH-MTX-poloxamer 188 nanocomposites with good dispersibility and efficient cellular uptake for controlled drug delivery. The LDH-MTX-poloxamer 188 nanocomposites with sphere-like morphology, of which the average hydrodynamic diameter was <100 nm, were shown to have better dispersion state than naked LDH-MTX. Importantly, the LDH-MTX-poloxamer 188 nanocomposites could achieve significant sustained drug release and have obvious pH dependent responsive release ability. In addition, these nanocomposites also exhibited long-term and excellent in vitro antitumor efficacy as opposed to pure MTX or LDH-MTX as evident from cell viability. More interestingly, compared to pure FITC used to simulate MTX, LDH nanocomposites labeled with FITC were considered to have better cell adhesion through cell uptake. Therefore, the studied nanocomposites of LDH-MTX-poloxamer 188 can be further used as a new advanced MTX delivery nanovehicles with desired properties in future therapeutic aspects.

Stem cell-based therapy in periodontal regeneration: a systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical studies.

BACKGROUND: Periodontitis is a common and chronic inflammatory disease characterized by irreversible destruction of the tooth surrounding tissues, especially intrabony defects, which eventually lead to tooth loss. In recent years, stem cell-based therapy for periodontitis has been gradually applied to the clinic, but whether stem cell-based therapy plays a positive role in periodontal regeneration is unclear at present. METHODS: The clinical studies related to the evaluation of mesenchymal stem cells for periodontal regeneration in PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled trials (CENTRAL), Web of Science (WOS), Embase, Scopus, Wanfang and China national knowledge infrastructure (CNKI) databases were searched in June 2023. The inclusion criteria required the studies to compare the efficacy of stem cell-based therapy with stem cell free therapy for the treatment periodontitis, and to have a follow-up for at least six months. Two evaluators searched, screened, and assessed the quality and the risk of bias in the included studies independently. Review Manager 5.4 software was used to perform the meta-analysis, and GRADEpro GDT was used to evaluate the level of the evidence. RESULTS: Five randomized controlled trials (RCTs) including 118 patients were analyzed. The results of this meta-analysis demonstrated that stem cell-based therapy showed better therapeutic effects on clinical attachment level (CAL) (MD = - 1.18, 95% CI = - 1.55, - 0.80, P < 0.00001), pocket probing depth (PPD) (MD = - 0.75, 95% CI = - 1.35, - 0.14, P = 0.020), and linear distance from bone crest to bottom of defect (BC-BD)( MD = - 0.95, 95% CI = - 1.67, - 0.23, P = 0.010) compared with cell-free group. However, stem cell-based therapy presented insignificant effects on gingival recession (P = 0.14), linear distance from cementoenamel junction to bottom of defect (P = 0.05). CONCLUSION: The results demonstrate that stem cell-based therapy may be beneficial for CAL, PPD and BC-BD. Due to the limited number of studies included, the strength of the results in this analysis was affected to a certain extent. The high-quality RCTs with large sample size, multi-blind, multi-centric are still required, and the methodological and normative clinical study protocol should be established and executed in the future.

Performance of the caries diagnosis feature of intraoral scanners and near-infrared imaging technology-A narrative review.

PURPOSE: To describe and discuss the benefits and drawbacks of various dental caries diagnostic techniques, including the use of intraoral scanners for caries diagnosis based on near-infrared imaging (NIR) technology. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A MEDLINE search from 1980-2023 focused on dental caries diagnostic techniques, emphasizing intraoral scanners using NIR technology. Alternative caries detection methods were also evaluated for their advantages and limitations, enabling a comparison with NIR. The review included traditional caries tools, the latest detection methods, and NIR's role in intraoral scanners, drawing from case reports and both in vivo and in vitro studies. Keywords like "caries detection," "intraoral scanners," and "Near Infrared Imaging (NIRI)" guided the search. After screening titles and abstracts for relevance, full texts with valuable insights were thoroughly analyzed. The data was grouped into three: traditional diagnostics, advanced digital methods, and intraoral scanner-based detection. RESULTS: This comprehensive narrative review described and discussed the current state of dental caries diagnostic methods, given the insufficient number of clinical investigations suitable for a systematic review. Traditional caries diagnosis techniques have shown variable accuracy dependent on a dentist's experience and the potential over-removal of healthy tooth structures. Intraoral scanners have emerged as a novel caries detection method, because of their integration of NIR technology. Various studies have confirmed the efficacy of NIR in detecting interproximal caries and in the early diagnosis of non-cavitated caries. Specifically, intraoral scanners have demonstrated promising results, proving comparable to established diagnostic methods like bitewing radiography. Nevertheless, while the integration of NIR into intraoral scanners seems promising, the technology still faces challenges, notably its accuracy in detecting secondary and subgingival cavities. However, with anticipated integrations of AI, NIR in intraoral scanners could revolutionize early caries detection. CONCLUSIONS: Intraoral scanners with NIR technology offer non-destructive imaging, real-time lesion visuals, and enhanced patient communication. Although comparable to bitewing radiography in some studies, a universally accepted diagnostic tool is lacking. Future research should compare them with existing methods, focusing on clinical outcomes, cost-effectiveness, and patient acceptance.

Comparison of surface characteristics of denture base resin materials with two surface treatment protocols and simulated brushing.

PURPOSE: To investigate the effects of 4 denture base materials, 2 surface treatment protocols, and simulated brushing (SB) on the surface hardness, surface roughness, surface gloss, and the surface loss of denture base materials. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Four denture base resin material groups (compression-molded, injection-molded, 3D-printed, and milled) with two different surface treatment protocols (polished and glazed) were utilized in this study. A total of 80 samples (n = 10) were evaluated for surface hardness (Vickers) before SB. SB was performed for each sample (custom-built V8 cross brushing machine, 50,000 reciprocal strokes). Surface roughness (Ra) was measured before and after SB with a non-contact optical profilometer. Surface gloss was performed using a glossmeter to determine changes in surface reflectivity of the specimens before and after SB. Surface loss (wear resistance) was measured after SB using optical profilometry. The effects of material, surface treatment, and SB on all surface characteristics were examined with two-way and three-way analysis of variance models (ANOVA) (α = 0.05). RESULTS: The polished compression-molded group had significantly higher surface hardness than all other groups. The protective glaze coating significantly increased the surface hardness for all groups (P < 0.001). SB increased the surface roughness of all groups regardless of surface treatments (P < 0.001). The increase in surface roughness after SB was significantly higher with polished surface treatment than with a glazed surface treatment in all groups (P < 0.001). Surface gloss was significantly higher with the glazed surface treatment than with the polished surface treatment for all denture base materials (P < 0.001). After SB, milled denture base material showed the highest, and 3D-printed material showed the second highest surface gloss compared to the other groups (P < 0.001), regardless of surface treatment. In all materials tested, surface glaze significantly decreased surface loss (P < 0.001). With the glaze surface treatment, compression-molded denture base material had significantly less surface loss (more surface gain) than other materials, while with the polished surface treatment, 3D-printed denture base material had the least surface loss when compared with other groups. CONCLUSIONS: A single layer of nano-filled, light-polymerizing protective glaze coating has displayed potential for enhancing the longevity of denture base materials, as evidenced by increased hardness and wear resistance. Following simulated brushing, the milled denture material exhibited the highest surface gloss and lowest surface roughness among all groups, regardless of the surface treatment protocol. This indicates that milled denture base material possesses favorable surface properties and may serve as a viable alternative to traditional denture base materials.

Tensile bond strength of auto-polymerizing and heat-polymerizing denture reliners on the conventional and CAD-CAM denture base materials.

PURPOSE: The study aimed to compare the tensile bond strength (TBS) of auto-polymerizing and heat-polymerizing denture reliners on the conventional (compression-molding and injection-molding) and computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (milled and 3D-printed) denture base materials. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Eighty standard dogbone-shaped specimens were fabricated from four materials: compression-molding, injection-molding, milled, and 3D-printed denture base materials. A 3-mm cutoff was removed from each specimen at the midsection, and all specimens were reattached with either auto-polymerizing (n = 10) or heat-polymerizing (n = 10) reliner. The TBS was measured on the universal testing machine. A scanning electron microscope (SEM) was used to examine the fractured surfaces at cross sections to determine the dominant failure mode in each group. Two-way ANOVA was used to examine the effects of denture base material and reliner on the TBS (α = 0.05). Weibull survival analysis was also used to determine the survival probability curves. RESULTS: Heat-polymerizing reliner led to a higher TBS than the auto-polymerizing reliner, except in the compression-molding (p = 0.573) groups. Compression-molding denture base material connected with a heat-polymerizing reliner showed the highest TBS (29.8 ± 6.9 MPa), whereas 3D-printed denture base material connected with an auto-polymerizing reliner showed the lowest TBS (7.2 ± 0.9 MPa). The survival probability based on the Weibull model demonstrated that the compression-molding denture base material connected with either auto-polymerizing or heat-polymerizing reliners had the longest survival time to failure, whereas 3D-printed denture base material relined with auto-polymerizing reline material showed the shortest survival time to failure. Under the SEM, the compression-molding groups demonstrated that the failure modes were mixed but predominantly cohesive. The injection-molding and milled groups showed predominantly adhesive failures at the denture base-reline material interfaces. The dominant mode of failure in the 3D-printed groups was cohesive failures within the bonding adhesive. CONCLUSIONS: Although the heat-polymerizing reliner led to a higher TBS than the auto-polymerizing reliner in most denture base materials, the compression-molding denture base material can achieve high TBS with both reliners. When the auto-polymerizing reliner is used with 3D-printed denture base material, clinicians should be aware of lower TBS value and possible cohesive failures, and the detachment of the reliner from the denture base.

Accuracy of digital duplication scanning methods for complete dentures.

PURPOSE: To compare the accuracy of four digital scanning methods in duplicating a complete denture. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Four scanning methods were used: cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), Straumann desktop scanner (DS), Trios intraoral scanner (TIO), and Virtuo Vivo intraoral scanner (VVIO). Each method was used to duplicate all the surfaces of a printed complete denture. The denture was scanned 10 times in each group. The trueness (in root mean square, RMS) and precision (in standard deviation, SD) were calculated by comparing the combined dentition, denture extension, and intaglio surfaces with the reference file. One-way analysis of variance and F-tests were used to test statistical differences (α = 0.05). RESULTS: For the scanning accuracy of the whole denture, CBCT showed the highest RMS (0.249 ± 0.020 mm) and lowest trueness than DS (0.124 ± 0.014 mm p < 0.001), TIO (0.131 ± 0.006 mm p < 0.001), and VVIO (0.227 ± 0.020 mm p = 0.017), while DS and TIO showed smaller RMS than VVIO (p < 0.001). For the trueness of dentition, denture extension, and intaglio surfaces, CBCT also showed the highest mean RMS and lowest trueness among all groups (p < 0.001). DS and TIO had smaller mean RMS and higher trueness among all groups in all surfaces (p < 0.001, except VVIO in intaglio surface, p > 0.05). TIO had significantly lower within-group variability of RMS and highest precision compared to DS (p = 0.013), CBCT (p = 0.001), and VVIO (p < 0.001) in the combined surface. For dentition and denture extension surfaces, TIO showed similar within-group variability of RMS with the DS group (p > 0.05) and lower than CBCT and VVIO (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The 7 Series desktop scanner and Trios 4 intraoral scanner can duplicate dentures in higher trueness than CBCT and the Virtuo Vivo intraoral scanner. The Trios 4 intraoral scanner was more precise in the combined surfaces than other scanning methods, while the 7 Series desktop scanner and Trios 4 intraoral scanner were more precise in the denture extension surface.

The effects of additive manufacturing technologies and finish line designs on the trueness and dimensional stability of 3D-printed dies.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effects of 5 manufacturing technologies and 2 finish line designs on the trueness and dimensional stability of 3D-printed definitive dies at finish line regions under different storage conditions and time. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Preparation of light chamfer and round shoulder finish lines were adopted individually on two mandibular first molar typodont teeth and digitalized as standard tessellation language (STL) files. A total of 240 samples (192 AM definitive dies and 48 definitive conventional stone dies) in 20 groups (n = 12) were manufactured based on 2 finishing line designs (chamfer and shoulder), 5 manufacturing technologies (4 additively manufactured technologies and conventional stone die), and 2 storage conditions (light exposure and dark). The 4 additively manufactured (AM) technologies include a DLP 3D-printer, an economic LED 3D-printer, a CLIP 3D-printer, and an SLA 3D-printer. All the study samples were distributed into two storage conditions. Subsequently, samples were digitalized to STL files at 3 different time points (within 36 hours, 1-month, and 3-months). A surface matching software was used to superimpose the sample STL files onto the corresponding original STL files with the best-fit alignment function. The trueness of each printed and stone definitive dies and their dimensional stabilities were measured by the root mean square (RMS, in mm). A linear mixed-effects model was used to test the effects of the finish line design, manufacturing technology, storage condition, and storage time on RMS values (α = 0.05). RESULTS: While finish line designs had no significant effects [F(1, 220) = 0.85, p < 0.358], the manufacturing technologies [F(3, 220) = 33.02, p < 0.001], storage condition [F(1, 220) = 4.11, p = 0.044], and storage time F(2, 440) = 10.37, p < 0.001] affected the trueness and dimensional stability of 3D-printed dies at finish line regions. No significant interactions were found among the 4 factors. For the manufacturing technologies, Type IV stone groups and LCD 3D-printer groups had significantly higher RMS values than the other 3 printers (p < 0.001) with no significant differences between Type IV stone and LCD 3D-printer groups (p = 0.577). DLP 3D-printer groups had higher RMS values than both SLA 3D-printer groups and CLIP 3D-printer groups (p < 0.001). There were no significant differences between SLA 3D-printer groups and CLIP 3D-printer groups, p = 0.671. For the effects of storage conditions, RMS values were significantly higher in the groups stored with the direct light exposure than the ones stored in the dark, p = 0.044. In terms of the effects of storage time, the RMS values were significantly higher after 1-month storage, p = 0.002; and 3-month storage, p < 0.001, than the ones at the immediate postmanufacturing stage. However, the RMS values after 1-month and 3-month storage were not significantly different from each other (p = 0.169). CONCLUSIONS: Manufacturing technologies, storage conditions, and storage time significantly affected the trueness and dimensional stability of 3D-printed dies at finish line regions, while finish line designs had no significant effects. Among the AM technologies tested, all have produced either comparable or truer 3D-printed dies than the Type IV dental stone dies, and the CLIP and SLA 3D-printers produced the best outcomes. 3D-printed dies showed significant distortion after 1-month and 3-months storage, especially under light exposure storage conditions. These findings may negate the clinical need to preserve 3D-printed dies, and digital data should be preserved instead.

Unraveling Sequence Effect on Glass Transition Temperatures of Discrete Unconjugated Oligomers.

Sequence plays a critical role in enabling unique properties and functions of natural biomolecules, which has promoted the rapid advancement of synthetic sequence-defined polymers in recent decades. Particularly, investigation of short chain sequence-defined oligomers (also called discrete oligomers) on their properties has become a hot topic. However, most studies have focused on discrete oligomers with conjugated structures. In contrast, unconjugated oligomers remain relatively underexplored. In this study, three pairs of discrete oligomers with the same composition but different sequence for each pair are employed for investigating their glass transition temperatures (Tg s). The resultant Tg s of sequenced oligomers in each pair are found to be significantly different (up to 11.6 °C), attributable to variations in molecular packing as demonstrated by molecular dynamics and density function theory simulations. Intermolecular interaction is demonstrated to have less impact on Tg s than intramolecular interaction. The mechanistic investigation into two model dimers suggests that monomer sequence caused the difference in intramolecular rotational flexibility of the sequenced oligomers. In addition, despite having different monomer sequence and Tg s, the oligomers have very similar solubility parameters, which supports their potential use as effective oligomeric plasticizers to tune the Tg s of bulk polymer materials.

The Effects of Beverages and Surface Treatments on the Color Stability of 3D-Printed Interim Restorations.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the color stability of 3D-printed interim restorations with different surface treatments while immersed in various staining solutions or beverages (artificial saliva, tea, coffee, and wine) for 6 months. MATERIAL AND METHODS: An acrylic tooth was prepared for an all-ceramic full-coverage restoration. A laboratory scanner was used to digitize the prepared abutment tooth. A virtual all-ceramic full-coverage restoration was designed on the digitized abutment tooth using a laboratory CAD/CAM software. Eighty abutment teeth and interim restorations were 3D-printed with tooth-colored photopolymerizing resin. The restorations were randomly allocated into two different groups: Polish and Optiglaze. For the Polish group, interim restorations were finished and polished with aluminum oxide finishers/polishers. For the Optiglaze group, one layer of nanofilled, light-polymerizing protective coating was then applied. The 80 printed interim crowns were divided into 4 different groups depending on where they would be immersed: Artificial saliva, coffee, wine, and tea. After the sample allocations, there were 8 experimental groups. Each group was allocated with 10 specimens. Color measurements were obtained using a digital spectrophotometer in conjunction with The CIE L*a*b* system before the immersion and 6 months after the immersion. Two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to test the effects of surface treatment, immersion liquid, and their interaction on ΔE at 6-month post-immersion. Fisher's protected least significant differences (LSD) was used as post hoc test to compare groups differences (α = .05). RESULTS: There were significant effects of surface treatment [F(1,72) = 13.39, p = 0.000], immersion liquid [F(3,72) = 74.18, p = 0.000], and their interaction [F(3,72) = 16.33, p = 0.000] on ΔE at 6-month post-immersion at the α = .05 level. The polish group showed significantly higher ΔE than the Optiglaze group when immersed in coffee (p < 0.001) and wine (p = 0.015). The Optiglaze group showed significantly higher ΔE than the polish group that was immersed in artificial saliva (p < 0.001). The wine group showed higher ΔE than all other immersion liquid groups for both polish and Optiglaze surface treatments (p < 0.001 for all comparisons). ΔL* showed a reduction that was significantly higher than the 2.0 acceptability threshold in the wine-polish (p < 0.001) and wine-Optiglaze (p < 0.001) groups. ΔE showed a color change that was significantly higher than the perceptibility and acceptability thresholds for all the groups under polish surface treatment (p < 0.001). ΔE also showed a color change that was significantly higher than the perceptibility and acceptability thresholds for artificial saliva, tea, and wine under Optiglaze surface treatment (p = 0.004). CONCLUSIONS: 3D-printed interim restorations showed significant discoloration after 6-months immersions in the artificial saliva and common beverages (including tea, coffee, and wine). Among all the chromogenic beverages, red wine caused the most significant discoloration on the interim restorations. When 3D-printed interim restorations are needed for extended intraoral service, nano-filled, light polymerizing protective coating can reduce the restoration discoloration caused by chromogenic beverages. The protective effect is most significant against coffee.

The Trueness of Obturator Prosthesis Base Manufactured by Conventional and 3D Printing Techniques.

PURPOSE: To compare the intaglio surface trueness of obturator prosthesis bases manufactured by traditional compression molding, injection molding, and 3D printing techniques. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A complete edentulous master cast with Aramany Class I maxillary defect was selected for this in vitro study. Four study groups (n = 10/group) were included in this study, Group A: Compression Molding, Group B: Injection Molding, and Group C: Cara Print 3D DLP Printer, and Group D: Carbon 3D DLS Printer. All obturator prostheses' intaglio surfaces were scanned with a laboratory scanner (E4; 3Shape Inc, New Providence, NJ) and the dimensional differences between study samples and their corresponding casts were calculated as the root mean square (measured in mm, absolute value) using a surface matching software (Geomagic design X; 3D Systems, Rock Hill, SC). One-way Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Fisher's least significant difference (LSD) test were used to compare groups differences in RMS (α = 0.05). RESULTS: There was a significant effect of manufacturing technique on the RMS values for the 4 conditions [F(3,36) = 5.743, p = 0.003]. Injection Molding (0.070 mm) and Compression Molding groups (0.076 mm) had a lower interquartile range, and the Cara Print 3D-Printer group (0.427 mm) and Carbon 3D-Printer (0.149 mm) groups had a higher interquartile range. The Injection Molding group showed the best and uniform surface matching with the most area in green in the color maps. The Injection Molding group (0.139 ± 0.049 mm) had significantly lower RMS than all other groups (p < 0.001 for all comparisons). Compression Molding (0.269 ± 0.057 mm), Cara Print 3D-Printer (0.409 ± 0.270 mm), and Carbon 3D-Printer (0.291 ± 0.082 mm) groups were not significantly different from each other (Compression Molding versus Carbon 3D-Printer, p = 0.59; Compression Molding versus Cara Print 3D-Printer, p = 0.25; Cara Print 3D-Printer versus Carbon 3D-Printer, p = 0.40). CONCLUSION: Obturator prosthesis bases manufactured with injection molding technique showed better intaglio surface trueness than ones made by the compression molding technique and 3D printers. Although obturator prosthesis bases manufactured from different 3D printers showed similar trueness, a DLP 3D printer produced less consistent outcome than a DLS 3D printer.

Multifunctional Natural Polymer Nanoparticles as Antifibrotic Gene Carriers for CKD Therapy.

BACKGROUND: Progressive fibrosis is the underlying pathophysiological process of CKD, and targeted prevention or reversal of the profibrotic cell phenotype is an important goal in developing therapeutics for CKD. Nanoparticles offer new ways to deliver antifibrotic therapies to damaged tissues and resident cells to limit manifestation of the profibrotic phenotype. METHODS: We focused on delivering plasmid DNA expressing bone morphogenetic protein 7 (BMP7) or hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)-NK1 (HGF/NK1) by encapsulation within chitosan nanoparticles coated with hyaluronan, to safely administer multifunctional nanoparticles containing the plasmid DNA to the kidneys for localized and sustained expression of antifibrotic factors. We characterized and evaluated nanoparticles in vitro for biocompatibility and antifibrotic function. To assess antifibrotic activity in vivo, we used noninvasive delivery to unilateral ureteral obstruction mouse models of CKD. RESULTS: Synthesis of hyaluronan-coated chitosan nanoparticles containing plasmid DNA expressing either BMP7 or NGF/NKI resulted in consistently sized nanoparticles, which-following endocytosis driven by CD44+ cells-promoted cellular growth and inhibited fibrotic gene expression in vitro. Intravenous tail injection of these nanoparticles resulted in approximately 40%-45% of gene uptake in kidneys in vivo. The nanoparticles attenuated the development of fibrosis and rescued renal function in unilateral ureteral obstruction mouse models of CKD. Gene delivery of BMP7 reversed the progression of fibrosis and regenerated tubules, whereas delivery of HGF/NK1 halted CKD progression by eliminating collagen fiber deposition. CONCLUSIONS: Nanoparticle delivery of HGF/NK1 conveyed potent antifibrotic and proregenerative effects. Overall, this research provided the proof of concept on which to base future investigations for enhanced targeting and transfection of therapeutic genes to kidney tissues, and an avenue toward treatment of CKD.

Automatic Assessment of 3-Dimensional Facial Soft Tissue Symmetry Before and After Orthognathic Surgery Using a Machine Learning Model: A Preliminary Experience.

PURPOSE: An objective and quantitative assessment of facial symmetry is essential for the surgical planning and evaluation of treatment outcomes in orthognathic surgery (OGS). This study applied the transfer learning model with a convolutional neural network based on 3-dimensional (3D) contour line features to evaluate the facial symmetry before and after OGS. METHODS: A total of 158 patients were recruited in a retrospective cohort study for the assessment and comparison of facial symmetry before and after OGS from January 2018 to March 2020. Three-dimensional facial photographs were captured by the 3dMD face system in a natural head position, with eyes looking forward, relaxed facial muscles, and habitual dental occlusion before and at least 6 months after surgery. Three-dimensional contour images were extracted from 3D facial images for the subsequent Web-based automatic assessment of facial symmetry by using the transfer learning with a convolutional neural network model. RESULTS: The mean score of postoperative facial symmetry showed significant improvements from 2.74 to 3.52, and the improvement degree of facial symmetry (in percentage) after surgery was 21% using the constructed machine learning model. A Web-based system provided a user-friendly interface and quick assessment results for clinicians and was an effective doctor-patient communication tool. CONCLUSIONS: This work was the first attempt to automatically assess the facial symmetry before and after surgery in an objective and quantitative value by using a machine learning model based on the 3D contour feature map.

A new mixed-ligand coordination polymer: protective activity on influenza a virus-induced COPD via regulating tlr3 gene expression on alveolar epithelial cells.

A new Cu(II) coordination polymer (CP) of [Cu5(µ3-OH)2(bcpt)4(bib)2] (1, bib = 1,4-bis(1-imidazoly)benzene and H2bcpt = 3,5-bis(3'-carboxyphenyl)-1,2,4-triazole) was synthesized by reaction of Cu(NO3)2·3H2O reacting with 3,5-bis(3'-carboxyphenyl)-1,2,4-triazole in the existence of 1,4-bis(1-imidazoly)benzene as the second ligand. The treatment activity of the compound on influenza A virus induced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) was evaluated. First, the biological function of the lung was assessed by measuring the partial pressure for the carbon dioxide (PaCO2) and oxygen (PaO2) via the analysis of blood gas. Next, the inflammatory cytokines released by alveolar epithelial cells were determined via the ELISA test kit. In addition to this, the real-time RT-PCR was carried out to determine the inflammatory response relative expression in the alveolar epithelial cells. Finally, the relative expression of the TLR3 on the alveolar epithelial cells was revealed by western blot. Possible binding patterns were acquired from the post scoring software and molecular docking, which exhibited two possible functional side chain binding sites of TLR3 to compounds binding, possibly offering distinct regulatory mechanisms.

Rice OVATE family protein 6 regulates leaf angle by modulating secondary cell wall biosynthesis.

Secondary cell wall not only provides rigidity and mechanical resistance to plants, but also has a large impact on plant growth and adaptation to environments. Biosynthesis of secondary cell wall is regulated by a complicated signaling transduction network; however, it is still unclear how the transcriptional regulation of secondary cell wall biosynthesis works at the molecular level. Here, we report in rice that OVATE family proteins 6 (OsOFP6) is a positive regulator in modulating expression of the genes related to biosynthesis of the secondary cell wall. Transgenic plants with knock-down of OsOFP6 by RNA interference showed increased leaf angle, which resulted from the thinner secondary cell wall with reduced amounts of cellulose and lignin, whilst overexpression of OsOFP6 in rice led to the thinker secondary cell wall with increased lignin content. Protein-protein interaction analysis revealed that OsOFP6 interacts with Oryza sativa homeobox 15 (OSH15), a class I KNOX protein. The interaction of OsOFP6 and OSH15 enhanced the transcriptional activity of OSH15 which binds to the promoter of OsIRX9 (Oryza sativa IRREGULAR XYLEM 9). Taken together, our study provides insights into the function of OsOFP6 in regulating leaf angle and the control of biosynthesis of secondary cell wall.

Homogeneity and heterogeneity of biological characteristics in mesenchymal stem cells from human umbilical cords and exfoliated deciduous teeth.

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have proven powerful potential for cell-based therapy both in regenerative medicine and disease treatment. Human umbilical cords and exfoliated deciduous teeth are the main sources of MSCs with no donor injury or ethical issues. The goal of this study was to investigate the differences in the biological characteristics of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (UCMSCs) and stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHEDs). UCMSCs and SHEDs were identified by flow cytometry. The proliferation, differentiation, migration, chemotaxis, paracrine, immunomodulatory, neurite growth-promoting capabilities, and acetaldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) activity were comparatively studied between these two MSCs in vitro. The results showed that both SHEDs and UCMSCs expressed cell surface markers characteristic of MSCs. Furthermore, SHEDs exhibited better capacity for proliferation, migration, promotion of neurite growth, and chondrogenic differentiation. Meanwhile, UCMSCs showed more outstanding adipogenic differentiation and chemotaxy. Additionally, there were no significant differences in osteogenic differentiation, immunomodulatory capacity, and the proportion of ALDHBright compartment. Our findings indicate that although both UCMSCs and SHEDs are mesenchymal stem cells and presented some similar biological characteristics, they also have differences in many aspects, which might be helpful for developing future clinical cellular therapies.