Effective corrosion inhibition of mild steel using novel 1,3,4-oxadiazole-pyridine hybrids: Synthesis, electrochemical, morphological, and computational insights.

An easy synthesis of two 1,3,4-oxadiazole derivatives, namely, 2-phenyl-5-(pyridin-3-yl)-1,3,4-oxadiazole (POX) and 2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-5-(pyridin-3-yl)-1,3,4-oxadiazole (4-PMOX), and their corrosion-inhibition efficacy against mild steel corrosion in 1 N HCl, is evaluated using weight loss from 303 to 323 K, Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS), Potentiodynamic Polarization (PDP), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX), UV-Vis spectroscopy, along with theoretical evaluation. Both POX and 4-PMOX exhibit excellent inhibition efficiency, with values reaching 97.83% and 98% at 500 ppm, respectively. The PDP analysis reveals that both derivatives act as mixed-type inhibitors. The Langmuir adsorption isotherm provides insights into the adsorption phenomena, demonstrating that 4-PMOX exhibits superior adsorption behavior on the mild steel surface compared to POX. This finding is further supported by SEM, DFT, RDF, and MSD analyses. Quantum mechanical parameters, including EHOMO, ELUMO, dipole moment (µ), energy gap (ΔE), etc., are in good agreement with the effectiveness of inhibition performance revealing ΔE values of 3.10 and 2.75 for POX and 4-PMOX, respectively. The results obtained from this study hold significant implications for researchers aiming to design more efficient organic inhibitors to combat metal corrosion.

Microplastics in landfill leachate: Occurrence, health concerns, and removal strategies.

Landfills are commonly used to manage solid waste, but they can contribute to microplastic (MPs) pollution. As plastic waste degrades in landfills, MPs are released into the surrounding environment, contaminating soil, groundwater, and surface water. This poses a threat to human health and the environment, as MPs can adsorb toxic substances. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the degradation process of macroplastics into microplastics, the types of MPs found in landfill leachate (LL), and the potential toxicity of microplastic pollution. The study also evaluates various physical-chemical and biological treatment methods for removing MPs from wastewater. The concentration of MPs in young landfills is higher than in old landfills, and specific polymers such as polypropylene, polystyrene, nylon, and polycarbonate contribute significantly to microplastic contamination. Primary treatments such as chemical precipitation and electrocoagulation can remove up to 60-99% of total MPs from wastewater, while tertiary treatments such as sand filtration, ultrafiltration, and reverse osmosis can remove up to 90-99%. Advanced techniques, such as a combination of membrane bioreactor, ultrafiltration, and nanofiltration (MBR + UF + NF), can achieve even higher removal rates. Overall, this paper highlights the importance of continuous monitoring of microplastic pollution and the need for effective microplastic removal from LL to protect human and environmental health. However, more research is needed to determine the actual cost and feasibility of these treatment processes at a larger scale.

Operator Experience and Fracture Location Affects the Rate of Facial Nerve Injury in Condylar Fractures: An Analysis of 89 Cases.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to measure the frequency and identify risk factors for facial nerve injury (FNI) in the open treatment of condylar neck and subcondylar fractures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A prospective cohort study was conducted over 5 years on patients who were treated surgically for mandibular condylar fractures using the retomandibular transparotid approach (RMTA). The primary result was FNI occurrence (yes/no). The predictor variables were demographic, fracture location, and pattern (dislocation, present or not), as well as surgeon experience. Post-treatment functional facial nerve changes were initially assessed in the operating room as the patient regained consciousness and documented thereafter within, the 1st and 3rd weeks, and 3rd and 6th months. Appropriate statistics were computed and, SPSS version 16 was used to analyze the data. χ2 test and Fisher exact test were used to assess significance (P ≤ 0.05). RESULTS: Eighty-nine patients with 102 condylar fractures (63 subcondylar and 26 condylar neck), with a mean age of 28.5±7.5 years and 91% men were evaluated. There were 15 subjects (16.8%) with FNI and among them 6 subjects had persistent facial weakness for 6-8 weeks that completely resolved within 3 months, with no permanent facial nerve paralysis. The marginal mandibular (n = 7), buccal (n = 6), and zygomatic (n = 2) were the facial nerve branches involved. Risk factors for FNI were operator' inexperience, fracture-dislocation, and condylar neck fracture to the site and location of the fracture. Multivariate logistic regression showed that the location of the fracture at neck level (0.030∗), fracture dislocation (<0.001∗), and operator's inexperience (0.003∗) were significant risk factors for postoperative facial nerve injury (P ≤ 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: If conducted properly, the RMTA is a safe method for treating condylar fractures with rare major complications; however, fracture dislocation, fractured condylar neck, and operator' in-experience were significantly associated with increased risk of developing transient postoperative FNI.

Outcome Study of Mandibular Fractures Treated by Surgical Stabilization With Plates and Screws.

This study aims to assess the outcomes of mandibular fractures treated through surgical stabilization using plates and screws, focusing on factors such as postoperative complications, patient satisfaction, and functional recovery. A total of 42 patients were included in the study. Surgical interventions involved the application of plates and screws at the fracture sites. Postoperative complications, including infection, hardware failure, and malocclusion, were recorded. Surgical stabilization of mandibular fractures using plates and screws demonstrates favorable outcomes in terms of stability, occlusal alignment, and patient satisfaction. The findings of this study contribute valuable insights into the efficacy of this surgical approach, highlighting its role in achieving successful outcomes for mandibular fracture management. Further prospective studies and randomized controlled trials are recommended to strengthen the evidence base and refine treatment protocols.

Comparison of Neurosensory Recovery of the Inferior Alveolar Nerve After Open and Closed Reduction for Mandibular Fractures: A Prospective Study.

INTRODUCTION: Traumatic mandibular fractures are the most common fractures of the facial region and are associated with loss of neurosensation in the inferior alveolar nerve (IAN). The present study aimed to compare IAN recovery after traumatic mandibular fractures between the open and closed reduction methods. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study included 90 patients with traumatic mandibular fractures of the body, angle, and symphysis, divided into two groups of 45 patients: group 1 was treated with closed reduction and fixation with rich arch-bar fixation under local anesthesia, and group 2 was treated with open reduction and rigid internal fixation with 2-mm titanium mini plates and monocortical screws (6 mm), and the plate was fixed to the fractured bony fragments. All patients underwent neurosensory testing using the Zuniga and Essick algorithm at baseline (preoperative), one week after surgery (postoperative), at three months, and at six months of follow-up. RESULTS: No statistically significant differences were observed in IAN recovery between the groups. The most common site of fracture was the body (44% in group 1 and 56% in group 2). The maximum recovery was observed in the younger age group (25-30 years). At baseline, functional nerve recovery was observed in 40 cases (88%) in group 1 and 38 cases (84%) in group 2, and the difference was not statistically significant. Levels A and B tests were affected by surgical management and improved after three months. The total recovery in group 1 ranged from 60% to 80%, and that in group 2 ranged from 56% to 72%. CONCLUSION: Based on the findings of the current study, both methods are recommended for surgical management of traumatic mandibular fractures with IAN recovery in 60-80% of cases six months postoperatively.

Ameloblastic fibro­odontoma in the posterior mandible: A case report.

Ameloblastic fibro-odontoma (AFO) is a rare, slow-growing neoplastic lesion classified as a benign, epithelial odontogenic mesenchymal tumor. This tumor exhibits histological features characteristic of both ameloblastic fibromas and complex odontomas. The clinical manifestation of AFO is typically characterized by the asymptomatic enlargement of the jawbones. Radiographically, it presents as a distinct radiolucent region, indicating the presence of radiopaque substances with varying degrees of irregularities in size and morphology. Standard therapeutic intervention involves enucleation. Despite its benign nature, AFO can cause significant morbidity if left untreated. Therefore, prompt diagnosis and appropriate management are essential to ensure optimal patient outcomes. The present study describes the case (clinical presentation and management) of an 18-year-old male patient with an AFO lesion located in the posterior mandible. This particular case was treated with conservative measures involving surgical enucleation along with the extraction of the impacted tooth and the curettage of residual bone.

Does leukocyte-platelet-rich fibrin (L-PRF) cause long term acceleration in the rate of canine retraction? A split-mouth, two-arm parallel group, randomized control trial.

OBJECTIVE: The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of leukocyte-platelet-rich fibrin (L-PRF) on the rate of maxillary canine retraction for a period of 5 months. METHODS: A split-mouth study was conducted on 16 subjects (9 males and 7 females; age range 17-25 years; mean age, 21.85±2.45 years) who required therapeutic extraction of bilateral maxillary first premolars. After the initial leveling and alignment, L-PRF plugs were placed in a randomly selected extraction socket (Experimental Group), and the other side served as a control (Control Group). Canine retraction was carried out by the activation of nickel-titanium (NiTi) closed-coil springs delivering 150 g of force. The rates of canine movement, canine rotation, tipping, root resorption, and molar movement were assessed at monthly intervals for five months (T0-T5). Pain, swelling and discomfort accompanying the procedure were assessed using a Likert scale. RESULTS: The study revealed a significant increase in the rate of canine movement on the experimental side in the first two months, and significant molar anchorage loss was observed only in the first month for control side. There were no statistically significant differences between the groups regarding canine rotation, tipping, probing depth, root resorption, and pain perception. CONCLUSIONS: The use of L-PRF plugs in extraction sockets considerably enhanced the rate of canine movement only in the first two months, and long-term efficacy was not observed in this study.

An Association of Morphological Characteristics of Palatal Rugae and Dental Malocclusion in an Adult Indian Population: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Introduction The formation of palatal rugae is completed in the early intrauterine stage, and because of their unique and permanent pattern in each individual, they can be utilized in forensics to identify a person. Objective The primary objective of this study was to determine an association between the rugae pattern and the dental malocclusion system described by Angle. Materials and methods A prospective cross-sectional, observational study was conducted on pretreatment dental casts of 400 subjects in an age range of 18-40 years. The samples were divided according to Angle's system of classification of malocclusion into Class I, Class II, and Class III. The number, length, pattern, and orientation of the three anterior-most primary rugae on both sides of the palatal region were studied. Results Significant differences were noted in the mean number of palatal rugae and mean lengths of rugae 1 and 2 on the right side (p < 0.001) and rugae 3 on the left (p < 0.001) side among the different malocclusion groups. Curved and wavy patterns were predominant, and significant differences were found among the groups (p < 0.05), whereas non-significant differences were observed in the rugae orientation between the groups on the right and left sides. Conclusions The current study showed significant differences in the length, number, and pattern of the palatal rugae among Angle's classes of malocclusion. Clinical implications Palatal rugae can be effectively used to identify dental malocclusion at an early stage and can, therefore, help intercept the developing malocclusion.

Nanovaccines: A game changing approach in the fight against infectious diseases.

The field of nanotechnology has revolutionised global attempts to prevent, treat, and eradicate infectious diseases in the foreseen future. Nanovaccines have proven to be a valuable pawn in this novel technology. Nanovaccines are made up of nanoparticles that are associated with or prepared with components that can stimulate the host's immune system. In addition to their delivery capabilities, the nanocarriers have been demonstrated to possess intrinsic adjuvant properties, working as immune cell stimulators. Thus, nanovaccines have the potential to promote rapid as well as long-lasting humoral and cellular immunity. The nanovaccines have several possible benefits, including site-specific antigen delivery, increased antigen bioavailability, and a diminished adverse effect profile. To avail these benefits, several nanoparticle-based vaccines are being developed, including virus-like particles, liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, nanogels, lipid nanoparticles, emulsion vaccines, exomes, and inorganic nanoparticles. Inspired by their distinctive properties, researchers are working on the development of nanovaccines for a variety of applications, such as cancer immunotherapy and infectious diseases. Although a few challenges still need to be overcome, such as modulation of the nanoparticle pharmacokinetics to avoid rapid elimination from the bloodstream by the reticuloendothelial system, The future prospects of this technology are also assuring, with multiple options such as personalised vaccines, needle-free formulations, and combination nanovaccines with several promising candidates.

Association between rheumatoid arthritis and periodontitis in an adult population - A cross sectional study.

BACKGROUND: This investigation was aimed to analyse the existence of an association between rheumatoid arthritis and periodontitis among Indian subjects. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This observational study included a total of 110 individuals between 18-78 years of age, which were divided equally into RA (Rheumatoid Arthritis) and NRA (Non-Rheumatoid Arthritis) groups. General, Oral and a complete Periodontal examination included recording of Gingival Index (GI), Plaque index (PI), Pocket Probing Depth (PPD), Clinical attachment level (CAL) in a questionnaire form. Laboratory and rheumatologcal parameters like C-reactive protein (CRP), Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and Disease Activity Score 28(DAS 28), Health Assessment Questionnaire-Disability Index (HAQ), Rheumatoid factor (RF) were also respectively estimated. RESULTS: Prevalence of moderate or severe periodontitis was higher in RA than in NRA group. (41.8% vs 23.6%, p= 0.047). Periodontal structural damage represented by clinical attachment level was more in RA patients (2.89 mm v/s 2.54mm, p=0.261). Mean score of HAQ was co-related significantly in patients with CAL ≥ 2mm than with CAL < 2mm (0.69 v/s 0.455, p=0.0415). Through logistic regression analysis, periodontitis and CAL were related to RA with OR (Odds Ratio) of 2.1 and 2.89 respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Indian RA patients have higher odds for periodontitis and CAL may act as a risk indicator for RA. Key words:Chronic periodontitis, rheumatoid arthritis, disease activity score 28, health assessment questionnaire, rheumatoid factor, c-reactive protein , erythrocyte sedimentation rate.

Does leukocyte-platelet-rich fibrin (L-PRF) cause long term acceleration in the rate of canine retraction? A split-mouth, two-arm parallel group, randomized control trial

ABSTRACT Objective: The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of leukocyte-platelet-rich fibrin (L-PRF) on the rate of maxillary canine retraction for a period of 5 months. Methods: A split-mouth study was conducted on 16 subjects (9 males and 7 females; age range 17-25 years; mean age, 21.85±2.45 years) who required therapeutic extraction of bilateral maxillary first premolars. After the initial leveling and alignment, L-PRF plugs were placed in a randomly selected extraction socket (Experimental Group), and the other side served as a control (Control Group). Canine retraction was carried out by the activation of nickel-titanium (NiTi) closed-coil springs delivering 150 g of force. The rates of canine movement, canine rotation, tipping, root resorption, and molar movement were assessed at monthly intervals for five months (T0-T5). Pain, swelling and discomfort accompanying the procedure were assessed using a Likert scale. Results: The study revealed a significant increase in the rate of canine movement on the experimental side in the first two months, and significant molar anchorage loss was observed only in the first month for control side. There were no statistically significant differences between the groups regarding canine rotation, tipping, probing depth, root resorption, and pain perception. Conclusions: The use of L-PRF plugs in extraction sockets considerably enhanced the rate of canine movement only in the first two months, and long-term efficacy was not observed in this study.

RESUMO Objetivo: O presente estudo foi realizado para investigar os efeitos da fibrina rica em leucócitos e plaquetas (L-PRF) na taxa de retração do canino superior, durante um período de cinco meses. Métodos: Um estudo de boca dividida foi realizado em 16 indivíduos (9 homens e 7 mulheres; faixa etária de 17 a 25 anos; idade média de 21,85 ± 2,45 anos) que precisavam de extração terapêutica dos primeiros pré-molares superiores de ambos os lados. Após o nivelamento e o alinhamento iniciais, os plugs de L-PRF foram colocados em um alvéolo pós-extração, selecionado aleatoriamente (Grupo Experimental), e o outro lado serviu como controle (Grupo Controle). A retração do canino foi realizada pela ativação de molas fechadas de níquel-titânio (NiTi) com 150 g de força. As taxas de movimentação do canino, rotação, inclinação e reabsorção radicular do canino e movimentação do molar foram avaliadas em intervalos mensais durante cinco meses (T0-T5). A dor, o inchaço e o desconforto após o procedimento foram avaliados por meio de uma escala de Likert. Resultados: O estudo revelou um aumento significativo na taxa de movimentação do canino no lado experimental nos dois primeiros meses, e uma perda significativa de ancoragem do molar foi observada apenas no primeiro mês no lado controle. Não houve diferenças estatisticamente significativas entre os grupos, com relação à percepção da dor e rotação, inclinação, profundidade de sondagem e reabsorção radicular do canino. Conclusões: O uso de plugs de L-PRF em alvéolos pós-extração aumentou consideravelmente a taxa de movimentação do canino apenas nos dois primeiros meses, não sendo observada uma eficácia em longo prazo.

Pediatric congenital atlantoaxial dislocation: differences between the irreducible and reducible varieties.

OBJECT: Clinicoradiological differences and outcome following surgery in pediatric patients (< or = 16 years of age) with congenital irreducible atlantoaxial dislocation (IAAD) and reducible atlantoaxial dislocation (RAAD) were analyzed. METHODS: Ninety-six patients (57 with IAAD and 39 with RAAD) were categorized as follows: Grade I, no deficits except hyperreflexia or neck pain (six patients); Grade II, minor deficits but independent for activities of daily living (25); Grade III, partially dependent (30); and Grade IV, totally dependent (35). Patients with RAAD underwent direct posterior fusion, and those with IAAD were treated with transoral decompression and posterior fusion. Patients with good outcomes included those who could walk unaided, with improvement in spasticity and weakness, and those who maintained Grade I status. The category of poor outcome included patients with the following conditions: postoperative deterioration or lack of improvement; inability to ambulate regardless of neurological improvement at a minimum follow-up duration of 3 months; or perioperative death. A significantly higher incidence of C-1 assimilation, C2-3 fusion, asymmetrical occiput-C2 facet joints, and basilar invagination were seen in patients with IAAD, and os odontoideum was noted in those with RAAD (p < 0.05). A good outcome was recorded in 35 patients with IAAD and 22 with RAAD, whereas 14 with IAAD and nine with RAAD had a poor outcome (eight patients in each category were lost to follow up). CONCLUSIONS: Radiological differences in the anatomy of patients with IAAD and those with RAAD may be due to improper segmentation of the occipital and upper cervical sclerotomes in the former and dysfunction of the transverse ligament in the latter. A significantly better outcome was noted in completely dependent patients with IAAD compared with those with RAAD. Respiratory compromise was an important prognostic factor.

Therapeutic efficacy of a novel nanosomal docetaxel lipid suspension compared with taxotere in locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer patients.

BACKGROUND: Nanosomal docetaxel lipid suspension formulation was developed to eliminate ethanol and polysorbate 80 from the currently used docetaxel (Taxotere) drug for treatment of cancer patients. NDLS clinical safety and efficacy was evaluated and compared with Taxotere at 75 mg/m(2) in metastatic breast cancer patients. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A total of 72 patients were randomized in a ratio of 2:1 (NDLS:Taxotere). Patients treated with NDLS were not premedicated with corticosteroids as required with solvent-based Taxotere. Disease status and tumor response was assessed after every 2 cycles of treatment using Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors 1.1 guidelines through cycle 6. RESULTS: Overall therapeutic response (complete + partial) rate in metastatic breast cancer patients treated with NDLS and Taxotere were 35.5% and 26.3%, respectively, indicating better response in patients treated with NDLS. Patients in the NDLS group were not premedicated but the safety results of NDLS were found to be comparable with Taxotere. CONCLUSION: NDLS formulation with no premedication provides an alternative treatment option for breast cancer patients.

Novel device (AirWave) to assess endotracheal tube migration: a pilot study.

INTRODUCTION: Little is known about endotracheal tube (ETT) migration during routine care among critically ill patients. AirWave is a novel device that uses sonar waves to measure ETT migration and obstructions in real time. The aim of the present study is to assess the accuracy of the AirWave to evaluate ETT migration. In addition, we determined the degree of variation in ETT position and tested whether more pronounced migration occurs in specific clinical scenarios. METHODS: After institutional review board approval, we included mechanically ventilated patients from February 2012 to May 2012. A chest radiography (CXR) was obtained at baseline and 24 hours when clinically indicated. The ETT distance at the lips was recorded at baseline and every 4 hours. The AirWave system continuously recorded ETT position changes from baseline, and luminal obstructions. RESULTS: A total of 42 patients (age: 61 [SD ±13] years, men: 52%) were recruited. A total of 19 patients had measurements of ETT migration at 24 hours by the 3 methodologies used in this study. The mean (SD) of the ETT migration at 24 hours was +0.04 (1.2), -0.42 (0.7) and +0.34 (1.81) cm when measured by portable CXR, ETT distance at the teeth and AirWave device, respectively. Bland-Altman analysis of tube migration at 24 hours comparing the AirWave with CXR readings showed a bias of 0.1 cm with 95% limit of agreement of -3.8 and +4.3 cm. Comparison of tube migration at 24 hours determined by AirWave with ETT distance at the lips revealed a bias of -0.4 with 95% limit of agreement -3.7 to +3 cm, similar to the values observed between CXR and ETT distance at the lips (bias of -0.3 cm, 95% limit of agreement of -3.4 to +2.8 cm). Factors associated with ETT migration at 24 hours were ETT size and initial measurement from ETT tip to carina by portable CXR. AirWave detected in eight patients some degree of ETT obstruction (30% ± 9.6%) that resolved with prompt ETT catheter suction. CONCLUSIONS: The AirWave may provide useful information regarding ETT migration and obstruction in real time.

Observation from scanning tunneling microscopy of a striped phase for octanethiol adsorbed on Au(111) from solution.

A self-assembled monolayer of 1-octanethiol was prepared on a Au(111) surface via liquid-phase adsorption. An investigation of the surface using ultrahigh-vacuum scanning tunneling microscopy revealed a striped phase of the octanethiol molecules under the conditions examined. This phase resembles the well-known "pinstripe" structure of alkanethiols on Au(111), with a registry that is similar to that of the previously observed p x radical3 structures. We discuss the nature of this structure with respect to those that have been observed for other n-alkanethiols.

Covalent attachment of a transition metal coordination complex to functionalized oligo(phenylene-ethynylene) self-assembled monolayers.

We have investigated the reaction of tetrakis(dimethylamido)titanium, Ti[N(CH(3))(2)](4), with N-isopropyl-N-[4-(thien-3-ylethynyl) phenyl] amine and N-isopropyl-N-(4-{[4-(thien-3-ylethynyl) phenyl]ethynyl}phenyl) amine self-assembled monolayers (SAMs), on polycrystalline Au substrates. The structure of the SAMs themselves has also been investigated. Both molecules form SAMs on polycrystalline Au bound by the thiophene group. The longer-molecular-backbone molecule forms a denser SAM, with molecules characterized by a smaller tilt angle. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and angle-resolved XPS have been employed to examine the kinetics of adsorption, the spatial extent of reaction, and the stoichiometry of reaction. For both the SAMs, adsorption is described well by first-order Langmuirian kinetics, and adsorption is self-limiting from T(s) = -50 to 30 degrees C. The use of angle-resolved XPS clearly demonstrates that the Ti[N(CH(3))(2)](4) reacts exclusively with the isopropylamine end group via ligand exchange, and there is no penetration of the SAM, followed by reaction at the SAM-Au interface. Moreover, the SAM molecules remain bound to the Au surface via their thiopene functionalites. From XPS, we have found that, in both cases, approximately one Ti[N(CH(3))(2)](4) is adsorbed per two SAM molecules.