Evaluation of the effectiveness of four alternative approaches for the classical cough test during a urodynamic study in the context of the COVID-19 global pandemic.

BACKGROUD: To evaluate four different alternatives to the classical cough test during a urodynamic study in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: Patients who needed to undergo a urodynamic study (UDS) at the West China Hospital of Sichuan University between April 2021 and May 2021 were randomly selected according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. During the UDS process, we used four alternative methods to the "cough test": 1) quickly pressing the bladder area, 2) performing the Valsalva maneuver, 3) performing the Kegel maneuver, and 4) letting the patient close their mouth while performing the cough test. The "cough" waveform amplitudes and characteristics of the graphics were obtained and compared with the classical cough test. RESULTS: A total of 120 patients (89 men, 31 women) were included in the study. There was no significant difference between the cough waveform amplitude induced by the Valsalva maneuver compared with the classical cough test (P = 0.182); there was no significant difference between the cough waveform amplitude induced by the cough test with the mouth closed and the classical cough test (P = 0.342); there was no significant difference between pressing quickly on the bladder area and the classical method (P = 0.076); and there was a significant difference between the data obtained by the Kegel maneuver and the classical method (P < 0.05). The average "cough" amplitudes obtained were 73.14 ± 22.48 cm H2O, 66.17 ± 17.12 cm H2O, 82.93 ± 18.95 cm H2O, 26.50 ± 8.68 cm H2O, and 68.90 ± 20.32 cm H2O by the classical cough test, by quickly pressing the bladder area, by the Valsalva maneuver, by the Kegel maneuver, and by coughing with a closed mouth, respectively. CONCLUSION: Quickly pressing the bladder area, performing the Valsalva maneuver, and letting the patient close their mouth while performing the cough test can all provide effective cough waveforms and amplitudes. TRIAL REGISTRATION: No. 2021-183.

Endoscopic radiofrequency ablation plus plastic stent placement versus stent placement alone for unresectable extrahepatic biliary cancer: a multicenter randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: We sought to compare the efficacy and safety between endoscopic radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and stent placement alone in patients with unresectable extrahepatic biliary cancer (EBC). METHODS: In this randomized controlled trial, patients with locally advanced or metastatic cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) or ampullary cancer who were unsuitable for surgery were recruited from 3 tertiary centers. Eligible patients were randomly assigned to RFA plus plastic stent placement (RFA group) or plastic stent placement alone (stent placement alone group) in a 1:1 ratio. Both groups underwent 2 scheduled interventions with an interval of approximately 3 months. The primary outcome was overall survival (OS). RESULTS: Altogether, 174 participants completed the 2 index endoscopic interventions. No significant differences in baseline characteristics were noted between the 2 groups. The median OS was significantly higher in the RFA group (14.3 vs 9.2 months; hazard ratio, .488; 95% confidence interval, .351-.678; P < .001). A survival benefit was also shown in patients with CCA (13.3 vs 9.2 months; hazard ratio, .546; 95% confidence interval, .386-.771; P < .001). However, no significant between-group differences were found in jaundice control or stent patency duration. The postprocedural Karnofsky performance scores were significantly higher in the RFA group until 9 months (all P < .001). Adverse events were comparable between the 2 groups (27.6% vs 19.5%, P = .211), except for acute cholecystitis, which was more frequently observed in the RFA group (9 vs 0, P = .003). CONCLUSIONS: Compared with stent placement alone, additional RFA may improve OS and quality of life of patients with inoperable primary EBC who do not undergo systemic treatments. (Clinical trial registration number: NCT01844245.).

Is imidafenacin an alternative to current antimuscarinic drugs for patients with overactive bladder syndrome?

PURPOSE: Previous studies have included a limited number of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and compared limited parameters after treatment with imidafenacin and other anticholinergic drugs (ADs) for overactive bladder syndrome (OAB), and controversy about the superiority of these ADs still remains. We aim to update the evidence and provide better clinical guidance. METHODS: A systematic search of PubMed, Embase, ClinicalTrial.gov and Cochrane Library Central Register of Controlled Trials was conducted from January 2007 to April 2019. Meta-analysis of all published RCTs comparing imidafenacin with other ADs in patients with OAB was performed. The primary outcomes were the changes in OAB symptoms and OAB symptom score (OABSS). Secondary outcomes included adverse events (AEs) and the dropout rate related to AEs. RESULTS: A total of 6 studies including 7 RCTs involving 1430 patients with mean follow-up of 23.43 weeks were included. All ADs improved OAB symptoms. Regarding efficacy, these drugs had similar efficacy in voids, urgency episodes, urgency incontinence episodes, incontinence episodes and OABSS. However, imidafenacin performed better in the reduction of nocturia episodes (MD = -0.24, 95% CI -0.44 to -0.04, P = 0.02). Moreover, imidafenacin was associated with a statistically lower dry mouth rate (RR = 0.87, 95% CI 0.75-1.00, P = 0.04), lower constipation rate (RR = 0.68, 95% CI 0.50-0.93, P = 0.01) and lower AE-related withdrawal rate (RR = 0.51, 95% CI 0.29-0.89, P = 0.02). There was no significant difference in terms of other complications. CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, imidafenacin was comparable to other ADs in the treatment of OAB. Moreover, imidafenacin presented a lower dry mouth rate, lower constipation rate and higher adherence and persistence.

Fabrication of pH-Responsive Nanoparticles with an AIE Feature for Imaging Intracellular Drug Delivery.

Here we have demonstrated a facile method for construction of self-assembled nanoparticles with excellent fluorescent properties by the synergetic combination of unique AIE effects and tadpole-shaped polymers. The introduction of acid-sensitive Schiff base bonds furnished the polymeric vesicles and micelles with unique pH responsiveness that can possess maximal drug-release controllability inside tumor cells upon changes in physical and chemical environments, but present good stability under physiological conditions. Having benefited from the efficient fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET), the DOX-loaded fluorescent aggregates were employed for intracellular imaging and self-localization in surveillance of systemic DOX delivery. Cytotoxicity assay of the DOX-loaded aggregates indicated a fast internalization and a high cellular proliferation inhibition to MCF-7 cells while the PEG-POSS-(TPE)7 nanoparticles displayed no cytotoxicity, exhibiting excellent biocompatibility and biological imaging properties. These results indicated that these biodegradable nanoparticles, as a class of effective pH-responsive and visible nanocarriers, have the potential to improve smart drug delivery and enhance the antitumor efficacy for biomedical applications.

Effect of Topological Structures on the Self-Assembly Behavior of Supramolecular Amphiphiles.

Three types of azobenzene-based telechelic guest polymers, PEG-azo, azo-PEG-azo, and PEG-azo4, were synthesized by a facile method. Subsequently, a series supramolecular amphiphiles with three distinct topological structures (hemitelechelic, ditelechelic, and quadritelechelic) were constructed through coupling with host polymer ß-cyclodextrin-poly(l-lactide) (ß-CD-PLLA) by combined host-guest complexation. Research on the self-assembly behavior of these amphiphiles demonstrated that the variation in self-assembly was tuned by the synergistic interaction of hydrophilicity and the curvature of the polymer chains, and very importantly, the topological structure of amphiphiles demonstrated effective control of the self-assembly behavior.

Controlled Endolysosomal Release of Agents by pH-responsive Polymer Blend Particles.

PURPOSE: A key step of delivering extracellular agents to its intracellular target is to escape from endosomal/lysosomal compartments, while minimizing the release of digestive enzymes that may compromise cellular functions. In this study, we examined the intracellular distribution of both fluorecent cargoes and enzymes by a particle delivery platform made from the controlled blending of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) and a random pH-sensitive copolymer. METHODS: We utilized both microscopic and biochemical methods to semi-quantitatively assess how the composition of blend particles affects the level of endosomal escape of cargos of various sizes and enzymes into the cytosolic space. RESULTS: We demonstrated that these polymeric particles enabled the controlled delivery of cargos into the cytosolic space that was more dependent on the cargo size and less on the composition of blend particles. Blend particles did not induce the rupture of endosomal/lysosomal compartments and released less than 20% of endosomal/lysosomal enzymes. CONCLUSIONS: This study provides insight into understanding the efficacy and safety of a delivery system for intracellular delivery of biologics and drugs. Blend particles offer a potential platform to target intracellular compartments while potentially minimizing cellular toxicity.

Self-assembly behavior of a linear-star supramolecular amphiphile based on host-guest complexation.

A star polymer, ß-cyclodextrin-poly(l-lactide) (ß-CD-PLLA), and a linear polymer, azobenzene-poly(ethylene glycol) (Azo-PEG), could self-assemble into a supramolecular amphiphilic copolymer (ß-CD-PLLA@Azo-PEG) based on the host-guest interaction between ß-CD and azobenzene moieties. This linear-star supramolecular amphiphilic copolymer further self-assembled into a variety of morphologies, including sphere-like micelle, carambola-like micelle, naan-like micelle, shuttle-like lamellae, tube-like fiber, and random curled-up lamellae, by tuning the length of hydrophilic or hydrophobic chains. The variation of morphology was closely related to the topological structure and block ratio of the supramolecular amphiphiles. These self-assembly structures could disassemble upon an ultraviolet (UV) light irradiation.

Global research trend and hotspot in the low FODMAP diet: a bibliometric analysis.

BACKGROUND: According to national guidelines, a diet low in fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols (FODMAP) is a second-line therapy option for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and improves functional intestinal symptoms. Numerous noteworthy results have been published in this field over the past fifteen years. This study aims to analyze the global research trend and hotspot of the low FODMAP diet research, and provide a comprehensive perspective and direction for researchers. METHODS: The Science Citation Index-Expanded of the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) was used to identify low FODMAP diet-related articles and reviews. Three bibliometric programs (CiteSpace, VOSviewer, Scimago Graphic) were utilized to analyze and visualize the annual publications, authors, countries, institutions, journals, citations, and keywords. RESULTS: In total, 843 documents related to the low FODMAP diet research were published in 227 journals by 3,343 authors in 1,233 institutions from 59 countries. The United States, which was the most engaged nation in international collaboration, had the largest annual production and the fastest growth. The most productive organization was Monash University, and the most fruitful researcher was Gibson PR. Nutrients ranked first in terms of the number of published documents. The article "A diet low in FODMAPs reduces symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome" (Halmos EP, 2014) received the most co-citations. Keywords that appear frequently in the literature mainly involve two main aspects: the clinical efficacy evaluation and mechanism exploration of the low FODMAP diet. The term "gut microbiota" stands out as the most prominent keyword among the burst keywords that have remained prevalent till date. CONCLUSION: The restriction stage of the low FODMAP diet is superior to other dietary therapies for IBS in terms of symptom response, but it has a negative impact on the abundance of gut Bifidobacteria and diet quality. Identification of biomarkers to predict response to the low FODMAP diet is of great interest and has become the current research hotspot.

Causal effects of genetically predicted testosterone on Alzheimer's disease: a two-sample mendelian randomization study.

OBJECTIVE: Although several studies have reported that testosterone may protect against Alzheimer's disease, no evidence of a causal relationship has been demonstrated. METHODS: A Mendelian randomization (MR) study was performed to determine the causal role of testosterone in Alzheimer's disease. The study utilized public databases obtained from separately published genome-wide associationstudies (GWAS). Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for testosterone were extracted from the most recent and largest published GWAS meta-analysis (178,782 participants), and SNPs for Alzheimer's disease were extracted from UK Biobank (954 AD cases and 487,331 controls). The odds ratio (OR) of the inverse variance weighting (IVW) approach was the primary outcome, and the weighted median and MR Egger regression were used for sensitivity analysis. RESULTS: Through IVW, we observed a causal association between genetically predicted testosterone and the risk of Alzheimer's disease, with an OR of 0.99 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.998-0.999, p = 0.047). In the sensitivity analyses, the weighted median regression showed directionally similar estimates (OR = 0.99, 95% CI = 0.998-0.999, p = 0.048). The MR Egger regression showed similar estimates (OR = 0.99, 95% CI = 0.998-1.00, p = 0.35), but with lower precision. Funnel plots, MR Egger intercepts, and Mendelian randomization pleiotropy residual sum and outlier (MR-PRESSO) analysis indicated the absence of directional pleiotropy effects. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, our MR study provides evidence of a causal relationship between testosterone levels and Alzheimer's disease; however, this relationship must be validated in future studies with larger sample sizes. Early testosterone monitoring may enable the prevention of Alzheimer's and related diseases.

Three new species of Neohelicomyces (Tubeufiales, Tubeufiaceae) from freshwater and terrestrial habitats in China.

Neohelicomyces species are a group of helicosporous hyphomycetes with the potential to produce secondary metabolites. During our investigation of helicosporous fungi, six collections were isolated from both terrestrial and freshwater habitats in Guizhou Province, China. Based on multigene phylogenetic analysis (ITS, LSU, tef1α and rpb2), coupled with morphological data, three new Neohelicomyces species, viz. N.guizhouensis, N.helicosporus and N.hydei were established. A list of accepted Neohelicomyces species with molecular data was provided. The strain of Neohelicomycespallidus (UAMH 10535) was synonymised under N.denticulatus based on molecular data.

Incidence and prognosis of olfactory and gustatory dysfunctions related to SARS-CoV-2 Omicron strain infection in China: A national multicenter survey of 35,566 individuals.

Objective: This cross-sectional study aimed to determine the epidemiology of olfactory and gustatory dysfunctions related to COVID-19 in China. Methods: This study was conducted by 45 tertiary Grade-A hospitals in China. Online and offline questionnaire data were obtained from patients infected with COVID-19 between December 28, 2022, and February 21, 2023. The collected information included basic demographics, medical history, smoking and drinking history, vaccination history, changes in olfactory and gustatory functions before and after infection, and other postinfection symptoms, as well as the duration and improvement status of olfactory and gustatory disorders. Results: Complete questionnaires were obtained from 35,566 subjects. The overall incidence of olfactory and taste dysfunction was 67.75%. Being female or being a cigarette smoker increased the likelihood of developing olfactory and taste dysfunction. Having received four doses of the vaccine or having good oral health or being a alcohol drinker decreased the risk of such dysfunction. Before infection, the average olfactory and taste VAS scores were 8.41 and 8.51, respectively; after infection, they decreased to 3.69 and 4.29 and recovered to 5.83 and 6.55 by the time of the survey. The median duration of dysosmia and dysgeusia was 15 and 12 days, respectively, with 0.5% of patients having symptoms lasting for more than 28 days. The overall self-reported improvement rate was 59.16%. Recovery was higher in males, never smokers, those who received two or three vaccine doses, and those that had never experienced dental health issues, or chronic accompanying symptoms. Conclusions: The incidence of dysosmia and dysgeusia following infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus is high in China. Incidence and prognosis are influenced by several factors, including sex, SARS-CoV-2 vaccination, history of head-facial trauma, nasal and oral health status, smoking and drinking history, and the persistence of accompanying symptoms.

Bioactive dental restorative materials: a review.

PURPOSE: To present an updated knowledge on the remineralizing dental restorative materials and their performance in vivo and/or in vitro. METHODS: A search of English peer-reviewed dental literature over the last 30 years from PubMed and MEDLINE databases was conducted, and the key words included: remineralization, pulp capping, restoration, composite, cement, primer, bonding, adhesive, liner and sealant. Titles and abstracts of the articles listed from search results were reviewed and evaluated for appropriateness. RESULTS: A variety of dental restorative materials are able to promote tooth remineralization and/or inhibit tooth demineralization. These remineralizing materials include fluoride- and/or calcium-containing pulp capping materials, bonding agents, resin composites, resin cements, glass-ionomer cements, and sealants.

Effect of incorporating BisGMA resin on the bonding properties of silane and zirconia primers.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: Some silane primers and some zirconia primers contain extra resins such as bisphenol A glycol dimethacrylate (BisGMA) in their formulations for better wetting. No studies exist on the bonding properties of zirconia and silane primers, which contain extra resins. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of incorporating BisGMA resin on the bonding properties of silane and zirconia primers. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Silica-base lithium disilicate was etched and treated with BisGMA-incorporated Porcelain Primer, unmodified Porcelain Primer, or resin-containing Kerr Silane. Zirconia ceramic was airborne-particle abraded and treated with BisGMA-incorporated Monobond Plus, unmodified Monobond Plus, or BisGMA-containing ZPrime Plus. After primer treatment and cleaning with ethanol, the contact angles were measured to determine surface change (n=10). Shear bond strength tests were also performed to measure the adhesion strength between resin cements and ceramic surfaces (n=10). Data were statistically analyzed by 1-way ANOVA followed by the Tukey multiple comparison as a post hoc test (significance level .05). RESULTS: The incorporation of BisGMA resin did not significantly influence the bond strength or contact angle of the zirconia primer (P>.05), but it did significantly reduce those of the silane primer (P<.05). Resin-containing Kerr Silane (22 degrees, 23 MPa) had a similar contact angle and higher bond strength than the control (21 degrees, 18 MPa), but lower than Porcelain Primer (88 degrees, 34 MPa). Resin-containing ZPrime Plus (75 degrees, 29 MPa) had a similar contact angle and higher bond strength than both Monobond Plus (74 degrees, 18 MPa) and the control (15 degrees, 4 MPa). CONCLUSIONS: The addition of BisGMA resin significantly inhibited the efficacy of silane-containing porcelain primers but did not affect that of phosphate-containing zirconia primers.

[In vitro biological evaluation of PEGylated poly(glycerol sebacate)/ß-TCP-coating modified magnesium alloy].

PURPOSE: To prepare PEGS/ß-TCP modified magnesium alloy (PEGS/ß-TCP/MZG) membranes by forming a glycolated poly(sebacate)/ß-tricalcium phosphate (PEGS/ß-TCP) coating on the surface of magnesium-zinc-gadolinium alloy (MZG) membranes, and to evaluate the osteogenic induction activity and immunomodulatory properties of PEGS/ß-TCP/MZG using the material extract medium. METHODS: PEGS/ß-TCP coating was prepared on the surface of MZG by solvent method, and the PEGS/ß-TCP/MZG membrane was fabricated and compared with PEGS/ß-TCP and MZG to examine the morphology, composition, and hydrophilicity. The amount of magnesium ions released and the pH value of the materials were tested after 3 days of immersion. The cell viability and osteogenic differentiation of MC3T3 cells induced by extract medium were investigated by CCK-8 assay, ALP and mineralized nodule staining. The cell viability and polarization of RAW cells induced by extract medium were then investigated. The expression of macrophage-secreted cytokines was examined by PCR analysis. GraphPad Prism 9.0 software package was used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: PEGS/ß-TCP/MZG membranes with PEGS/ß-TCP coating tightly embedded with MZG were successfully fabricated, and the material had good hydrophilicity. The results of degradation experiments indicated that the PEGS/ß-TCP coating effectively slowed down the degradation rate of MZG, leading to a lower pH value and concentration of Mg2+ ion in the extract medium of PEGS/ß-TCP/MZG group. The results of in vitro cell experiments showed that PEGS/ß-TCP/MZG had no significant effect on the proliferation activity of both MC3T3-E1 and macrophages. PEGS/ß-TCP/MZG significantly enhanced the expression of ALP and mineralized nodule staining in MC3T3-E1. Although there was no significant difference in macrophage polarization pattern between PEGS/ß-TCP and PEGS/ß-TCP/MZG groups, PEGS/ß-TCP/MZG further reduced inflammation based on the immunomodulation of PEGS/ß-TCP coating related TNF-α expression and increased osteogenesis related TGF-ß expression. CONCLUSIONS: MZG membrane modified by PEGS/ß-TCP may provide a new material option for the development of bone tissue engineering.

Symptom clusters after chemoradiotherapy in discharged nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients.

Objective: To investigate the incidence of complications and types of chemoradiotherepy induces symptom clusters in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) who were first diagnosed after treatment and discharged from hospital. Methods: After their discharge home, 130 NPC patients who had been treated with chemoradiotherapy were asked to complete a modified Chinese version of the Quality of Life Questionnaire-Head and Neck Module developed by the European Organization for the Research and Treatment of Cancer in the Head and Neck. Symptom clusters in patients were identified through exploratory factor analysis. Results: The most serious symptoms for discharged NPC patients who had received chemoradiotherapy were dental problems, a sense of obstruction while swallowing, embarrassment in physical contact with family members and friends, difficulty in speaking with others, and embarrassment in public. The six symptom clusters identified through exploratory factor analysis were (1) painful eating, (2) social difficulties, (3) psychological disorders, (4) symptomatic shame, (5) teeth/throat injuries, and (6) sensory abnormalities. The total contribution rate of variance was 65.73%. Conclusion: NPC patients who are treated with chemoradiotherapy can experience adverse symptom clusters that continue after discharge. Nurses should evaluate the patients' symptoms before discharge and provide targeted health education services which would reduce the patients' complications and improve the quality of life at home. Besides, medical staff should evaluate the complications in a timely and comprehensive manner and provide individualized health education for the affected patients to help them manage chemoradiotherapy side effects.

Effect of the poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) density on the access and uptake of particles by antigen-presenting cells (APCs) after subcutaneous administration.

Lymphatic trafficking of particles to the secondary lymphoid organs, such as lymph nodes, and the cell types that particles access are critical factors that control the quality and quantity of immune responses. In this study, we evaluated the effect of PEGylation on the lymphatic trafficking and accumulation of particles in draining lymph nodes (dLNs) as well as the cell types that internalized particles. As a model system, 200 nm polystyrene (PS) particles were modified with different densities of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) and administered subcutaneously to mice. PEGylation enhanced the efficiency of particle drainage away from the injection site as well as the access of particles to dendritic cells (DCs). The accumulation of particles in dLNs was dependent on the PEG density. PEGylation also enhanced uptake by DCs while reducing internalization by B cells at the single cell level. Our results indicate that PEGylation facilitated the trafficking of particles to dLNs either through enhanced trafficking in lymphatic vessels or by enhanced internalization by migratory DCs. This study provides insight into utilizing PEGylated particles for the development of synthetic vaccines.

Antibacterial dental restorative materials: a state-of-the-art review.

This review presents an updated knowledge on the antibacterial dental restorative materials and their performance clinically and in the laboratory. A search of English peer-reviewed dental literature over the last 30 years from PubMed and MEDLINE databases was conducted, and the key words included antibacterial, antimicrobial, dental, primer, adhesive, bonding agent, cement, and composite. Titles and abstracts of the articles listed from search results were reviewed and evaluated for relevancy. In summary, the incorporation of an appropriate amount of antibacterial agent provided dental restorative materials (dental bonding agents, resin composites, resin cements, glass-ionomer cements) antibacterial activity without significantly influencing mechanical properties.

A new two-dimensional cadmium(II) coordination polymer based on Cd6(CHADC)6 clusters (H2CHADC is cyclohexane-1,2-dicarboxylic acid): synthesis, structure and properties.

The highly effective recognition and detection of metal ions and anions in water has attracted much attention with respect to environmental safety. Herein, a novel Cd-based coordination polymer, poly[[4,4'-bis(2-methylimidazol-1-yl)biphenyl]bis(cyclohexane-1,2-dicarboxylato)dicadmium(II)], [Cd2(C8H10O4)2(C20H18N4)]n or [Cd(CHADC)(4,4'-BMIBP)0.5]n, (I), has been synthesized employing cis-cyclohexane-1,2-dicarboxylic acid (H2CHADC) and 4,4'-bis(2-methyl-1H-imidazol-1-yl)biphenyl (4,4'-BMIBP). Single-crystal X-ray analysis reveals that (I) presents a 6-connected hxl two-dimensional layer based on Cd6(CHADC)6 clusters with the point symbol (36·46·53). Furthermore, (I) has been characterized by elemental analysis, IR spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis and fluorescence spectroscopy, and exhibits good stability and excellent photoluminescence properties. Coordination polymer (I) was chosen as a fluorescent probe to sense different target analytes and shows an obvious selective recognition response to Fe3+ cations and Cr2O72-/CrO42- anions through luminescence-quenching effects in aqueous solution. The sensing mechanism was investigated and showed that the detection mechanism was resonance energy transfer between (I) and the Fe3+, Cr2O72- and CrO42- ions.

Oral Health Status of Residents in Jiangsu Province, China: An Epidemiologic Survey.

INTRODUCTION: This study was conducted to characterise the oral health conditions of residents in Jiangsu Province, China. METHODS: In this descriptive study, 5 groups of participants were selected by a multistage stratified equal capacity random sampling, including 3- to 5-year-olds, 12- to 15-year-olds, 35- to 44-year-olds, 55- to 64-year-olds, and 65- to 74-year-olds. The data were collected by using the fifth edition of Oral Health Surveys-Basic Methods recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). RESULTS: In these 5 groups, the mean DMFT/dmft of coronal caries were 3.07, 0.69, 4.03, 7.15, and 11.97, respectively, resulting in prevalence rates of 59.69%, 34.98%, 52.05%, 56.86%, and 72.19%, respectively. However, the filling rates were low in all age groups (1.88%, 17.53%, 29.88%, 16.13%, and 19.36%, respectively). Only 3.58% of the 12-year-old participants had good pit and fissure sealants. The adults include three groups, 35- to 44-year-olds, 55- to 64-year-olds, and 65- to 74-year-olds, and the prevalence rates of clinical attachment loss (CAL ≥4 mm) were 32.19%, 76.47%, and 85.43%, respectively. The proportions of adult groups with implant dentures, fixed dentures, removable partial dentures, complete dentures, and substandard dentures were 0%, 26.44%, 11.11%, 0.67%, and 4.89%, respectively. Additionally, 49.64% of adults had missing teeth that were not replaced. CONCLUSIONS: Dental caries and periodontal disease were frequent and common in Jiangsu, China. But only a few of the residents sought treatment. Oral diseases continued to be a major problem for local residents.

lncRNA SNHG1 regulates odontogenic differentiation of human dental pulp stem cells via miR-328-3p/Wnt/ß-catenin pathway.

BACKGROUND: Elucidating the mechanism of odontogenic differentiation of human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs) is the key to in-depth mastery and development of regenerative endodontic procedures (REPs). In odontogenic differentiation, lncRNAs have a regulatory role. The goal of this research is to determine the involvement of short nucleolar RNA host gene 1 (SNHG1) in hDPSCs' odontogenic differentiation and the mechanism that underpins it. METHODS: hDPSCs were isolated from the dental pulp tissue of healthy immature permanent teeth. Follow-up experiments were performed when the third generation of primary cells were transfected. The proliferation ability was measured by CCK-8. The biological effects of SNHG1 and miR-328-3p were determined by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), western blot (WB), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining and activity, alizarin red S staining (ARS) and quantification, and immunofluorescence staining. The binding of SNHG1 and miR-328-3p was confirmed using a dual-luciferase reporter assay. qRT-PCR and WB were used to determine whether the canonical Wnt/ß-catenin pathway was activated. RESULTS: On the 0th, 3rd, and 7th days of odontogenic differentiation of hDPSCs, SNHG1 showed a gradual up-regulation trend. SNHG1 overexpression enhanced the mRNA and protein expression of dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP), dentine matrix protein 1 (DMP-1) and ALP. We found that SNHG1 could bind to miR-328-3p. miR-328-3p inhibited the odontogenic differentiation of hDPSCs. Therefore, miR-328-3p mimics rescued the effect of SNHG1 overexpression on promoting odontogenic differentiation. In addition, SNHG1 inhibited Wnt/ß-catenin pathway via miR-328-3p in odontogenic differentiation of hDPSCs. CONCLUSION: lncRNA SNHG1 inhibits Wnt/ß-catenin pathway through miR-328-3p and then promotes the odontogenic differentiation of hDPSCs.