Oxidative stress and COVID-19-associated neuronal dysfunction: mechanisms and therapeutic implications.

Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)-CoV-2 virus causes novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), and there is a possible role for oxidative stress in the pathophysiology of neurological diseases associated with COVID-19. Excessive oxidative stress could be responsible for the thrombosis and other neuronal dysfunctions observed in COVID-19. This review discusses the role of oxidative stress associated with SARS-CoV-2 and the mechanisms involved. Furthermore, the various therapeutics implicated in treating COVID-19 and the oxidative stress that contributes to the etiology and pathogenesis of COVID-19-induced neuronal dysfunction are discussed. Further mechanistic and clinical research to combat COVID-19 is warranted to understand the exact mechanisms, and its true clinical effects need to be investigated to minimize neurological complications from COVID-19.

Role of cGAS-Sting Signaling in Alzheimer's Disease.

There is mounting evidence that the development of Alzheimer's disease (AD) interacts extensively with immunological processes in the brain and extends beyond the neuronal compartment. Accumulation of misfolded proteins can activate an innate immune response that releases inflammatory mediators and increases the severity and course of the disease. It is widely known that type-I interferon-driven neuroinflammation in the central nervous system (CNS) accelerates the development of numerous acute and chronic CNS diseases. It is becoming better understood how the cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) and its adaptor protein Stimulator of Interferon Genes (STING) triggers type-I IFN-mediated neuroinflammation. We discuss the principal elements of the cGAS-STING signaling pathway and the mechanisms underlying the association between cGAS-STING activity and various AD pathologies. The current understanding of beneficial and harmful cGAS-STING activity in AD and the current treatment pathways being explored will be discussed in this review. The cGAS-STING regulation offers a novel therapeutic opportunity to modulate inflammation in the CNS because it is an upstream regulator of type-I IFNs.

Clinical correlation of salivary alpha-amylase levels with pain intensity in patients undergoing emergency endodontic treatment.

BACKGROUND: Pain is usually subjective and thus it is challenging to describe its characteristics such as nature, intensity, and origin. Non-invasive methods such as assessing salivary alpha-amylase (SAA) may aid the practitioner to evaluate the pain intensity. Hence, the current study aimed to correlate the levels of SAA with the pain intensity in patients presenting with varied endodontic pain levels. METHODS: Sixty patients who presented with varied intensities of endodontic pain were selected for the present study out of which seven patients were excluded/dropped, leaving a total sample of fifty-five patients for assessment. Mandibular molar with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis without periapical pathology were included in the study. A 5ml of un-stimulated was obtained from the patients, following which the local anesthesia was administered. Root canal treatment was then performed and the pain scores at pre-operative and post-operative were recorded. Additionally, salivary samples were collected after emergency endodontic treatment and sent for sialochemical analysis. IBM.SPSS statistics software 23.0 was employed to assess the obtained data. RESULTS: A statistically significant drop in the pain score (P < 0.001) and SAA levels (P < 0.001) were observed post-operatively in the contract to pre-operative state. A strong positive correlation was reported between SAA levels and pain scores in patients undergoing emergency endodontic treatment at both time intervals namely pre-operative (P < 0.001) and post-operative (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The results of this preliminary showed a strong association between the pain score and SAA levels in patients undergoing an emergency endodontic treatment.

Designing Novel Multi-Epitope Vaccine Construct against Prevotella intermedia-Interpain A: An Immunoinformatics Approach.

Background and Objectives: Periodontitis is a chronic multifactorial inflammatory infectious disease marked by continuous degradation of teeth and surrounding parts. One of the most important periodontal pathogens is P. intermedia, and with its interpain A proteinase, it leads to an increase in lethal infection. Materials and Methods: The current study was designed to create a multi-epitope vaccine using an immunoinformatics method that targets the interpain A of P. intermedia. For the development of vaccines, P. intermedia peptides InpA were found appropriate. To create a multi-epitope vaccination design, interpain A, B, and T-cell epitopes were found and assessed depending on the essential variables. The vaccine construct was evaluated based on its stability, antigenicity, and allergenicity. Results: The vaccine construct reached a more significant population and was able to bind to both the binding epitopes of major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-I and MHC-II. Through the C3 receptor complex route, P. intermedia InpA promotes an immunological subunit. Utilizing InpA-C3 and vaccination epitopes as the receptor and ligand, the molecular docking and dynamics were performed using the ClusPro 2.0 server. Conclusion: The developed vaccine had shown good antigenicity, solubility, and stability. Molecular docking indicated the vaccine's 3D structure interacts strongly with the complement C3. The current study describes the design for vaccine, and steady interaction with the C3 immunological receptor to induce a good memory and an adaptive immune response against Interpain A of P. intermedia.

Health influence of SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) on cancer: a review.

The novel coronavirus, namely, SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19), broke out two years ago and has caused major global health issues. Adequate treatment options are still lacking for the management of COVID-19 viral infections. Many patients afflicted with COVID-19 may range from asymptomatic to severe symptomatic, triggering poor clinical outcomes, morbidity, and mortality. Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. It is pertinent to re-examine cancer prevalence during the COVID-19 pandemic to prevent mortality and complications. Understanding the impact of SARS-CoV-2 on cancer is key to appropriate healthcare measures for the treatment and prevention of this vulnerable population. Data was acquired from PubMed using key search terms. Additional databases were utilized, such as the Centers for Disease Prevention and Control, American Cancer Society (ACS), and National Cancer Institute (NCI). Cancer patients are more prone to SARS-CoV-2 infection and exhibit poor health outcomes, possibly due to a chronic immunosuppressive state and anticancer therapies. Male sex, older age, and active cancer disease or previous cancer are risk factors for COVID-19 infection, leading to possible severe complications, including morbidity or mortality. The speculated mechanism for potentially higher mortality or COVID-19 complications is through reduced immune system function and inflammatory processes through cancer disease, anticancer therapy, and active COVID-19 infection. This review includes prostate, breast, ovarian, hematologic, lung, colorectal, esophageal, bladder, pancreatic, cervical, and head and neck cancers. This review should help better maintain the health of cancer patients and direct clinicians for COVID-19 prevention to improve the overall health outcomes.

ß-hydroxybutyric acid attenuates oxidative stress and improves markers of mitochondrial function in the HT-22 hippocampal cell line.

Ketone bodies have been the topic of research for their possible therapeutic neurotropic effects in various neurological diseases such as Parkinson's disease, dementia, and seizures. However, continuing research on ketone bodies as a prophylactic agent for decreasing the risk for various neurodegenerative diseases is currently required. In this paper, hippocampal HT-22 cells were treated with ß-hydroxybutyric acid at different doses to elucidate the neurotropic effects. In addition, markers of oxidative stress, mitochondrial function, and apoptosis were investigated. As a result, the ketone body (ß-hydroxybutyric acid) showed a significant increase in hippocampal neuronal viability at a moderate dose. Results show that ß-hydroxybutyric acid exhibited antioxidant effect by decreasing prooxidant oxidative stress markers such as reactive oxygen species, nitrite content, and increasing glutathione content leading to decreased lipid peroxidation. Results show that ß-hydroxybutyric acid improved mitochondrial functions by increasing Complex-I and Complex-IV activities and showing that ß-hydroxybutyric acid significantly reduces caspase-1 and caspase-3 activities. Finally, using computational pharmacokinetics and molecular modeling software, we validated the pharmacokinetic effects and pharmacodynamic (N-Methyl-D-aspartic acid and acetylcholinesterase) interactions of ß-hydroxybutyric acid. The computational studies demonstrate that ß-hydroxybutyric acid can interact with N-Methyl-D-aspartic acid receptor and cholinesterase enzyme (the prime pharmacodynamic targets for cognitive impairment) and further validates its oral absorption, distribution into the central nervous system. Therefore, this work highlights the neuroprotective potential of ketone bodies in cognitive-related neurodegenerative diseases.

Predictable hematological markers associated with cognitive decline in valid rodent models of cognitive impairment.

Endogenous (hyperglycemia) and exogenous (therapeutic, prophylactic, street drugs) factors can considerably contribute to cognitive impairment (CI). Currently, there are few invasive and/or noninvasive markers that correlate with CI and those that do exist require expensive or invasive techniques to predict and accurately measure the cognitive decline. Therefore, we sought to determine hematological markers as predictors of CI in two different chemically induced valid rodent models of CI (streptozotocin induced hyperglycemic model and chemotherapy [doxorubicin/cyclophosphamide] treated rodent model). Hematological markers were analyzed in the above rodent models of CI CI and compared to their respective control groups. There was a significant increase in creatinine kinase, lactate dehydrogenase and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) in the chemotherapy group. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), bilirubin, creatinine and glucose levels were significantly increased in the streptozotocin group. Interestingly, triglycerides were significantly elevated in both the streptozotocin and chemotherapy groups. Previous studies with human subjects have shown a potential link between the increase in triglyceride levels and CI. Likewise, our data indicate a notable correlation with an increase in triglycerides to cognitive impairment in the rodent models. This suggests elevated levels of triglycerides could prove to be a potential noninvasive hematological marker for the increased risk of CI. Further studies are warranted to determine the causal relationship between elevated triglyceride levels and CI.

Autotaxin⁻Lysophosphatidic Acid Signaling in Alzheimer's Disease.

The brain contains various forms of lipids that are important for maintaining its structural integrity and regulating various signaling cascades. Autotaxin (ATX) is an ecto-nucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase-2 enzyme that hydrolyzes extracellular lysophospholipids into the lipid mediator lysophosphatidic acid (LPA). LPA is a major bioactive lipid which acts through G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) and plays an important role in mediating cellular signaling processes. The majority of synthesized LPA is derived from membrane phospholipids through the action of the secreted enzyme ATX. Both ATX and LPA are highly expressed in the central nervous system. Dysfunctional expression and activity of ATX with associated changes in LPA signaling have recently been implicated in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). This review focuses on the current understanding of LPA signaling, with emphasis on the importance of the autotaxin⁻lysophosphatidic acid (ATX⁻LPA) pathway and its alterations in AD and a brief note on future therapeutic applications based on ATX⁻LPA signaling.

Comparing the dopaminergic neurotoxic effects of benzylpiperazine and benzoylpiperazine.

Benzylpiperazine has been designated as Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act by Drug Enforcement Administration. Benzylpiperazine is a piperazine derivative, elevates both dopamine and serotonin extracellular levels producing stimulatory and hallucinogenic effects, respectively, similar to methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA). However, the comparative neurotoxic effects of Piperazine derivatives (benzylpiperazine and benzoylpiperazine) have not been elucidated. Here, piperazine derivatives (benzylpiperazine and benzoylpiperazine) were synthesized in our lab and the mechanisms of cellular-based neurotoxicity were elucidated in a dopaminergic human neuroblastoma cell line (SH-SY5Y). We evaluated the in vitro effects of benzylpiperazine and benzoylpiperazine on the generation of reactive oxygen species, lipid peroxidation, mitochondrial complex-I activity, catalase activity, superoxide dismutase activity, glutathione content, Bax, caspase-3, Bcl-2 and tyrosine hydroxylase expression. Benzylpiperazine and benzoylpiperazine induced oxidative stress, inhibited mitochondrial functions and stimulated apoptosis. This study provides a germinal assessment of the neurotoxic mechanisms induced by piperazine derivatives that lead to neuronal cell death.

Calotropis procera and the Pharmacological Properties of Its Aqueous Leaf Extract: A Review.

Calotropis procera (C. procera) is a versatile plant often used for fuel, fodder, wood, fiber, phytoremediation, medicine, and synthesis of nanoparticles. Its ability to tolerate abiotic stresses and its morphophysiological adaptation have made it popular worldwide. Currently, it is identified as an environmental weed across the world. C. procera owes its therapeutic qualities to the secondary metabolites like tannins, alkaloids, and phenols present in it. New synthetic drugs are being formulated by using these secondary metabolites as a prototype. This review aimed to provide a summary of the chemometric profile, toxicity, and pharmacological activities of the aqueous leaf extract of C. procera based on the current literature.

A Comparative Evaluation of Antimicrobial and Cytotoxic Efficacy of Biosynthesized Silver Nanoparticles and Chemically Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles Against Enterococcus faecalis: An In Vitro Study.

Introduction Effective root canal cleaning and sealing are essential for a successful endodontic procedure. For the purpose of disinfecting root canals, both herbal and non-herbal medications are recommended. This study aimed to analyze the antimicrobial and cytotoxic properties of biosynthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) synthesized from Azadirachta indica/neem and chemically synthesized AgNPs from trisodium citrate (TSC) against oral pathogens to be further used as an irrigant in endodontic treatment. Materials and methods To synthesize A. indica AgNPs, powdered fresh A. indica leaves were weighed, added to double distilled water, heated for 30 minutes, and then combined with silver nitrate solution. TSC was also used to create TSC AgNPs. X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), ocular observation, and the ultraviolet-visible light (UV-vis) spectrum were used to characterize the AgNPs. Studies were conducted on the extract's characteristics, including its cytotoxicity and antibacterial activity. Results The hue shift and peak on the UV-vis spectrophotometer were signs that AgNPs were forming. The XRD pattern showed that the sample included crystalline AgNPs, mostly spherical ones. By using SEM, the presence of AgNPs was also verified. AgNPs that were synthesized showed antimicrobial efficacy against Enterococcus faecalis. Compared to chemically synthesized AgNPs, A. indica AgNPs showed lower minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values, a bigger zone of inhibition (ZOI), and less cytotoxic action. Conclusion This study demonstrates the minimal cytotoxicity and antibacterial activity of A. indica AgNPs against E. faecalis. This suggests that they might also be employed as root canal cleaners. Before experimenting with animals or cell lines in clinical trials for endodontic treatment, further research should be done.

Assessment of Apical Pressures in Single and Joining Canals - An Ex Vivo Study Based on Computational Fluid Dynamic Analysis.

OBJECTIVE: Computational fluid dynamic analysis (CFD) is claimed to be a reliable tool for analysing the fluid flow and the generated apical pressures in the simulated root canal. The current study aimed to analyse the apical pressures in extracted teeth with single and joining canals. METHODS: Forty-six freshly extracted teeth were collected for the present study. The power was set at 95%, with an effect size of 0.55 (1-ß=95%, α=0.05). Once the root canal anatomy was confirmed with cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), they were divided into two groups: group I: mandibular second premolars with Vertucci type-I (n=23), and group II: maxillary second premolars with Vertucci type-II (n=23). The instrumentation of the specimens was carried out to a 0.04-taper using rotary instruments. A post-instrumentation CBCT was obtained, and computer-aided design models were obtained. The CFD simulations were then con- ducted with simulated 30-gauge side vented needles at 25, 50, and 75% short of the working length (WL). RESULTS: Group I recorded significantly (p<0.05) higher apical pressures at needle positions 25% short of the WL. However, no significant differences were elicited in the groups at other needle positions. CONCLUSION: Single canal specimens recorded higher apical pressures at needle positions 25% short of the WL. However, no differences were elicited between single and joining canals at higher needle positions.

Assessment of Anatomical Dentin Thickness in Mandibular First Molar: An In Vivo Cone-Beam Computed Tomographic Study.

Aim: To determine the minimum dentin thickness in the mesial and distal walls of the mesiobuccal (MB) and mesiolingual (ML) canals of the mandibular first molars using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Materials and Methods: CBCT examinations of 624 mandibular first molars from an Indian subpopulation were analyzed. The mesial and distal minimum dentin thickness was evaluated in 1 mm intervals apical to the furcation area. Independent t-test was used to analyze the data (α = 0.05). Using Cohen's kappa coefficient, the interexaminer and intraexaminer reliability was evaluated. Results: The mesial dentin thickness was significantly higher than the distal dentin thickness for MB and ML canals (P=0.01). The average dentin thickness in the distal and mesial plane of the MB canal was 1.15 ± 0.15 mm and 1.52 ± 0.19 mm at the 1 mm level and 0.83 ± 0.13 and 1.08 ± 0.18 at the 5 mm level, respectively. For the ML canal, the average dentin thickness in the distal plane and the mesial plane was 1.24 ± 0.18 mm and 1.44 ± 0.21 at the 1 mm level and 0.91 ± 0.16 and 1.01 ± 0.17 at the 5 mm level, respectively. Statistical analysis between the MB and ML canals showed significant differences in the dentin thickness at 4 and 5 mm levels in both the distal and the mesial planes (P=0.01). In more than 85% of the cases, the minimum dentin thickness was seen at the 5 mm level in both the distal and mesial planes in MB and ML canals. Conclusion: The distal planes of the mesiolingual and mesiobuccal canals were thinner in most cases, making the distal surface more prone to iatrogenic perforations. Considerably, at 4 and 5 mm from the furcation, the distal wall was significantly thinner than the mesial walls. Understanding the anatomy of the danger zone in the mesial roots of the mandibular first molars may serve to minimize the risk of endodontic mishaps such as strip perforations.

An in vitro evaluation of microtensile bond strength of resin-based sealer with dentin treated with diode and Nd:YAG laser.

BACKGROUND: Smear layer is a negative factor which prevents adhesion of the filling material to the dentinal walls. Recent advances in dental research have incorporated lasers as a potential adjunct in root canal treatment by removing the smear layer before filling the root canal system, enhancing the adhesion of sealers to dentin and improving the sealing ability. AIM: To evaluate the microtensile bond strength of AH-Plus resin-based sealer to dentin after treatment with 980 nm diode and 1,064 nm neodymium-doped:yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) laser in vitro. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty specimens prepared for three groups namely group I (control), group II (980 nm diode-lased specimens) and group III (Nd:YAG-lased specimens). One tooth from each group was observed under scanning electron microscope for evaluation of intracanal root dentin morphology. Remaining specimens were used for making microsections by hard tissue microtome. Specimens for groups II and III were lased with 980 nm diode and 1,064 nm Nd:YAG laser. AH Plus sealer was applied onto specimens and mounted onto Instron universal testing machine for microtensile bond strength testing. Results were subjected to statistical analysis using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey's test. RESULTS: Group III Nd:YAG had maximum mean microtensile bond strength values (11.558 ± 0.869), followed by group II diode (9.073 ± 0.468) and group I control (6.05 ± 0.036). Statistically significant differences were seen among all the groups. SEM analysis shows removal of smear layer in both groups II and III. CONCLUSION: Both Nd:YAG and diode laser were more effective than control group in improving the microtensile bond strength of AH Plus sealer to dentin. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Lasers have the potential to increase the adhesiveness of root canal sealer to dentin surface, thereby improving the quality of root canal obturation.

Biomechanical Performance of Mandibular Molars with Deep Mesio-Occlusal-Distal Cavities Rehabilitated with Horizontal Posts: A 3D Finite Element Analysis.

Aim: To compare and contrast by three-dimensional finite element analysis the biomechanical performance of deep mesio-occlusal-distal cavities of mandibular molars reinforced by different sizes of horizontal fiber posts. Materials and Methods: The finite element (FE) stress analysis was performed with the ANSYS, a commercial finite element method package. Based on the evidence-based scientific data and on the mechanical properties of materials, i.e., Young's modulus and Poisson ratio, the model of a mandible and mandibular first molar was replicated. The mandibular molar models replicating the clinical scenarios were simulated, designed, and built, assuming all materials to be homogenous, isotropic, and linearly elastic as follows: Model 1 control: the model of an intact first mandibular molar. Model 2: the prepared cavity mesio-occlusal-distal is replicated by the subtraction Boolean method. The remaining thickness of dentin is 1 mm. Model 3: these were rehabilitated by three different diameters of two horizontal fiber posts. Model 3A: fiber post diameter 1 mm, Model 3B: 1.5 mm and Model 3C: 2 mm. The dimensions of the cavity, the intercuspal distance between buccal walls and lingual walls, and the distance of placement of the post from occlusal reference points were all kept constant for all three subgroups of Model 3. The cavities of Model 3 were restored with Filtek bulk-fill posterior composite. After meshing the models, loads were defined on the buccal and lingual distal cusps with a constant value of 600 N and at an angle of 45°. Results: The results of finite element analysis are expressed as stresses, i.e., tensile compressive, shear, or a combination known as von Mises stresses. The overall von Mises stresses were as follows: Model 1:154.83 Mpa; Model 2: 376.877 Mpa; Model 3A: 160.221 Mpa; Model 3B: 159.488 Mpa; Model 3C: 147.231 Mpa. Statistical analysis of the compiled data was carried out. It was seen that there was a significant difference in stress values from the intact tooth Model 1 and cavity Model 2 (p < 0.05) with means values of 53.1 and 139.22, respectively. The means of all subgroups were comparable but there was a statistically significant difference between Model 3, i.e., 3A (67.74), Model 3B (60.47), Model 3C (53.70), and Model 2. Model 1 and Model 3C had comparable mean values. Conclusion: Rehabilitation of deep mesio-occlusal-distal cavities of molars with intact buccal and lingual walls with the aid of a horizontal post of any diameter has a similar stress distribution to an intact tooth. However, the biomechanical performance of a 2 mm horizontal post was exacting of the natural tooth. Horizontal posts can be included in expanding our restorative option for rehabilitating grossly mutilated teeth.

Endodontic retreatment efficacy with and without solvents: A systematic review.

Introduction: This systematic review investigates the crucial need for solvent use in root canal retreatment, as it effectively removes filling materials, reduces apical debris extrusion, and alleviates postoperative pain, ultimately enhancing treatment success. The review aims to assess the success rates, compare outcomes, explore benefits and drawbacks, and identify subgroups where solvent use may be more effective during root canal retreatment. Materials and Methods: The search was performed in PubMed Central, Scopus, Cochrane, LILAC, ScienceDirect, Google Search, Web of Science, and manually using the search items alone and in combination by means of PUBMED search builder. The studies were assessed for eligibility according to the eligibility criteria by two independent reviewers. Groups containing solvent with nonsolvent groups and randomized control trials were included and in vitro studies, retrospective studies, and animal studies were excluded from the study. Quality assessment was performed using the risk of bias (RoB) 2.0 tool. Results: Out of the 596 articles obtained, 14 were shortlisted for full-text reading and finally two articles were included in the study. The studies were assessed for quality, and data were extracted in a tabulated form. Overall RoB is low, but due to the lack of homogeneity, meta-analysis could not be conducted. Conclusion: The use of solvent does not cause any significant difference in the postoperative pain levels or analgesic intake for retrieval of gutta-percha in cases of root canal retreatment. Due to the limited number of studies available and the lack of clinician-related outcomes such as time taken to retrieve the gutta-percha, these results should be taken into consideration with caution.

Natural Polyphenols From Moringa and Centella Extracts as Collagen Cross-Linkers and Matrix Metalloproteinase (MMP) Inhibitors in Dentin Preservation: An In Vitro Study.

Background In adhesive dentistry, creating a long-lasting bond between resin composite and dentin is crucial. The durability of this bond dramatically depends on the structural integrity of collagen fibrils present in the hybrid layer. However, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) can degrade collagen fibrils, compromising the bond's longevity. Aim The objective is to evaluate the potential effectiveness of natural extracts from Moringa and Centella in preventing collagen degradation caused by MMPs. Material and methods The phenol and flavonoid content of the extracts were evaluated. Dentin beams were demineralized and pre-treated with 1% or 5% Moringa, 1% or 5% Centella, or 2% chlorhexidine (CHX) (five minutes), with untreated beams as control. Beams were incubated in calcium- and zinc-containing media (CM) at pH 7.2 and 37°C for one, 10, 20, and 30 days, and C-terminal cross-linked telopeptide of type I collagen (ICTP) release (collagen telopeptide) was assessed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit after 30 days. Results Data were analyzed with a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). All test groups showed a different dry mass loss. The control group had the highest loss, followed by CHX, with the least loss in the 5% Moringa and Centella groups. ICTP release ranged from 1.781 ± 0.319 to 3.146 ± 0.684, with 5% Moringa showing the most negligible release. Conclusion The group that received 5% Moringa exhibited the most effective reduction in collagen degradation compared to all the other groups.

Clinical Assessment of Moringa oleifera as a Natural Crosslinker for Enhanced Dentin Bond Durability: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Dentin biomodification is a biomimetic approach that strengthens the collagen network, making it less susceptible to enzymatic degradation and improving the durability of bonded restorative materials, using collagen crosslinkers. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of Moringa oleifera as a natural crosslinker in improving the clinical success of resin-dentin restorations. METHOD: A double-blind, controlled, randomized clinical trial was conducted in accordance with Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) guidelines, with 50 adult participants with initial carious lesions (ICDAS 4 and 5) enrolled. Participants were randomly assigned to either the experimental group (which received Moringa oleifera as a pretreatment liner) or the control group (standard restorative procedures without a liner). Functional and biological outcomes were assessed at baseline, six months, and 12 months using the FDI criteria. Statistical analysis included Fisher's exact test, Wilcoxon sign rank test, and Mann-Whitney U test. RESULTS: Both groups exhibited excellent functional properties and marginal adaptation at baseline and six months. At the 12-month mark, the test group displayed clinically better functional properties (97.9%, n=47) compared to the control group (95.8%, n=46), but there was no significant difference (p-value>0.05). Marginal gaps were observed in both groups at six and 12 months (8.3%, n=4), with no significant inter-group variation (p-value>0.05). Radiographic examination showed a harmonious restoration-to-tooth transition. Patient satisfaction remained high, with the test group 4.2% (n=2) and control 2.1% (n=1) reporting minor issues at 12 months, though not statistically significant (p-value>0.05). Postoperative sensitivity was minimal, and tooth integrity was well-preserved. CONCLUSION: Moringa oleifera, as a pretreatment liner, showed promise in enhancing the clinical success of resin-dentin restorations. Despite minor reported issues, the groups had no statistically significant differences regarding functional and biological outcomes.

Comparative Evaluation of Preemptive and Preventive Analgesic Effect of Oral Ibuprofen in Single Visit Root Canal Treatment- A Prospective Randomised Pilot Study.

OBJECTIVE: Adequate pain management is an essential key to success in endodontics. The present study aimed to evaluate the postoperative pain levels and analgesic intake on preemptive versus preventive oral administration of ibuprofen in single visit root canal treatment. METHODS: A total of 100 participants presented with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis and with severe baseline pain scores were selected for the study. The participants were randomly allocated into two groups as follows: Group I: preemptive group (n=50), Group II: preventive group (n=50). Participants in group I were administered preoperatively with 600 mg of ibuprofen tablet 1 hour before the procedure, whereas in group II, participants were administered only with a placebo preoperatively. The treatment was finished in a single visit, and 200 mg ibuprofen tablet was administered every eight hours in both groups. The participants were asked to take tablets only when required and evaluated for pain scores and analgesic intake at 6, 24, 48, 72 hour intervals. RESULTS: There was a statistically significant decrease (P<0.05) in both the pain levels and tablet intake in the preemptive group compared to the preventive group at 6, 24, 48 and 72 hours. Preemptive group was beneficial in reducing postoperative pain scores and analgesic intake at all time intervals. CONCLUSION: Preemptive analgesic administration seems beneficial in reducing postoperative pain levels and analgesic intake in single visit root canal treatment.

Knowledge, attitude, and practice of ultrasonics in endodontic treatment: A Survey among general practitioners and endodontists.

The use of ultrasonics (US) has greatly expanded in the field of dentistry. Over the past few decades, the application of US has increased substantially in endodontics owing to the predictable prognosis and ease of operation. The objective of this survey was to determine the knowledge, practice, and attitude of US in endodontics among the general practitioners, postgraduates, and endodontists. An electronic questionnaire containing 16 questions regarding the knowledge, attitude, and practice of US in endodontics was circulated among the general dentists, postgraduates, and endodontists and the responses were collected online. Data were statistically examined using IBM SPSS software. A total of 202 dentists (general dentists = 92, endodontists = 77, and postgraduates = 33) participated in the survey. Eighty-nine percent of them were aware of the use of US in endodontics, 36.1% of them preferred using US in the removal of pulp chamber calcifications, pulp stones, access refinement, and troughing hidden canals, and 61.4% chose <3% sodium hypochlorite for root canal irrigation with US. The cost of the ultrasonic unit and heat generation during procedures were considered the greatest limitation in using the US. The majority of the dentists were well aware of the use of US and its advantages in various endodontic procedures but they did not use it routinely in their practice. The use of US has been reported to have greatly increased the predictability of endodontic treatment.