Failure and complication rates of different materials, designs, and bonding techniques of ceramic cantilever resin-bonded fixed dental prostheses for restoring missing anterior teeth: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES: The objective of this review was to assess clinical trials that have examined the materials, design, and bonding of ceramic cantilevered resin-bonded fixed dental prostheses (RBFDPs) as a potential option for replacing missing anterior teeth. The evaluation primarily focuses on the rate of restoration failure and clinical complications. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A thorough search of databases including PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library, was conducted. The most recent search was performed in October 2023. Clinical studies that compared ceramic cantilevered RBFDPs with double retainers or cantilevered RBFDPs using different ceramic materials or bonding systems were included. The outcome measures considered were restoration failure and complication rates. RESULTS: Twelve studies met the eligibility criteria. The pooled data showed a statistically significant decrease in complication events when using cantilever designs compared with double retainer designs (p < 0.05); however, there were no differences found between the two designs in terms of restoration failure. The complication and failure rate of cantilever RBFDPs did not show a statistically significant difference with or without ceramic primer application before luting with phosphate monomer-containing luting resin (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Ceramic cantilevered RBFDPs have lower complication rates compared with those with double retainers. The use of a ceramic primer prior to luting composite resin for ceramic cantilevered RBFDPs decreases the occurrence of complications and failures, although this effect was not statistically significant. Additional research is required to confirm these findings. Glass ceramic cantilever RBFDPs showed a decrease in success after 6 years, requiring ongoing monitoring, but both zirconia and glass-infiltrated alumina cantilever RBFDPs have demonstrated durability with excellent long-term success and survival rates for up to 10 and 15 years. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Cantilever ceramic RBFDPs in the anterior region are a less invasive and valuable treatment option, providing good esthetic results.

Mitigating salt toxicity and overcoming phosphate deficiency alone and in combination in pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) plants through supplementation of hydrogen sulfide.

While it is widely recognized that hydrogen sulfide (H2S) promotes plant stress tolerance, the precise processes through which H2S modulates this process remains unclear. The processes by which H2S promotes phosphorus deficiency (PD) and salinity stress (SS) tolerance, simulated individually or together, were examined in this study. The adverse impacts on plant biomass, total chlorophyll and chlorophyll fluorescence were more pronounced with joint occurrence of PD and SS than with individual application. Malondialdehyde (MDA), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and electrolyte leakage (EL) levels in plant leaves were higher in plants exposed to joint stresses than in plants grown under an individual stress. When plants were exposed to a single stress as opposed to both stressors, sodium hydrosulfide (NaHS) treatment more efficiently decreased EL, MDA, and H2O2 concentrations. Superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, glutathione reductase and ascorbate peroxidase activities were increased by SS alone or in conjunction with PD, whereas catalase activity decreased significantly. The favorable impact of NaHS on all the evaluated attributes was reversed by supplementation with 0.2 mM hypotaurine (HT), a H2S scavenger. Overall, the unfavorable effects caused to NaHS-supplied plants by a single stress were less severe compared with those caused by the combined administration of both stressors.

Dental implant planning using artificial intelligence: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: Data on the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in dental implant planning is insufficient. PURPOSE: The purpose of this systematic review with meta-analysis was to analyze and evaluate articles that assess the effectiveness of AI algorithms in dental implant planning, specifically in detecting edentulous areas and evaluating bone dimensions. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A systematic review was conducted across the MEDLINE/PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane, and Scopus databases. In addition, a manual search was performed. The inclusion criteria consisted of peer-reviewed studies that examined the accuracy of AI-based diagnostic tools on dental radiographs for dental implant planning. The most recent search was conducted in January 2024. The Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies-2 (QUADAS-2) tool was used to assess the quality of the included articles. RESULTS: Twelve articles met the inclusion criteria for this review and focused on the application of AI in dental implant planning using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) images. The pooled data indicated an overall accuracy of 96% (95% CI=94% to 98%) for the mandible and 83% (95% CI=82% to 84%) for the maxilla in identifying edentulous areas for implant planning. Eight studies had a low risk of bias, 2 studies had some concern of bias, and 2 studies had a high risk of bias. CONCLUSIONS: AI models have the potential to identify edentulous areas and provide measurements of bone as part of dental implant planning using CBCT images. However, additional well-conducted research is needed to enhance the accuracy, generalizability, and applicability of AI-based approaches.

Adaptation of cobalt chromium frameworks fabricated by conventional versus selective laser melting techniques: An in vitro and clinical assessment.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: Three-dimensional (3D) printing of cobalt chromium (Co-Cr) removable partial dentures (RPDs)by selective laser melting (SLM) has been claimed to be less challenging than by conventional casting and provides significant improvements. However, the adaptation and fit of the SLM framework and the optimum build orientation are still unclear. PURPOSE: The purpose of this in vitro and clinical study was to evaluate the effect of different build orientations on the adaptation of removable partial denture frameworks fabricated by SLM technology in vitro and to compare the adaptation of the SLM and conventional RPD frameworks clinically. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A master model simulating a maxillary arch of Kennedy class III modification 1 was scanned and duplicated to create a virtual 3D cast and reference cast. Four groups (n=40) of Co-Cr RPD frameworks were fabricated. For the SLM groups, the Co-Cr framework was virtually designed and exported for SLM printing. The SLM printing was done in 3 different build orientations: 0-degree (n=10), 45-degree (n=10), and 90-degree (n=10) groups. Other Co-Cr frameworks were conventionally cast (n=10). All Co-Cr frameworks were scanned and virtually superimposed with the master model using a surface-matching software program. The gap under 9 selected points in the palatal major connectors was analyzed and calculated. A smaller gap indicates more surface adaptation and close contact between the palatal major connector and the master model. The data were analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis and Dunnett T3 tests (α=.05). Three patients with a partially dentate maxillary arch were enrolled in the clinical part based on inclusion criteria. Two RPD frameworks were provided for each patient (conventional casting and SLM printing). The adaptation of each framework was assessed by measuring the gap between the palatal major connector of the framework and the palate with light-body silicone. The differences in adaptation between the conventional and SLM frameworks were compared by using independent t tests (α=.05). RESULTS: The in vitro study identified significant differences in the adaptation of the palatal major connector among the 4 groups (P<.001), except for conventional and 0-degree SLM printing (P=.999). The conventional and 0-degree SLM frameworks exhibited the best adaptation, with the lowest gap underneath the palatal major connector of the RPD framework (0.01 ±0.02 mm and 0.01 ±0.01 mm, respectively). In the clinical part of the study, no significant difference was found between the adaptation of SLM and the conventional framework (P=.430) CONCLUSIONS: The adaptation of SLM printing can be maximized with less gap under the palatal major connector of the RPD framework when using the 0-degree build orientation. Co-Cr frameworks produced with SLM printing technology were comparable with conventionally produced frameworks; hence, SLM printed frameworks can be an alternative for clinical applications when optimum SLM parameters are applied.

Adhesion of Candida Albicans to digital versus conventional acrylic resins: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: The present systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the available evidence about the adherence of Candida Albicans to the digitally-fabricated acrylic resins (both milled and 3D-printed) compared to the conventional heat-polymerized acrylic resins. METHODS: This study followed the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analyses (PRISMA). A comprehensive search of online databases/search tools (Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, Ovid, and Google Scholar) was conducted for all relevant studies published up until May 29, 2023. Only in-vitro studies comparing the adherence of Candida albicans to the digital and conventional acrylic resins were included. The quantitative analyses were performed using RevMan v5.3 software. RESULTS: Fourteen studies were included, 11 of which were meta-analyzed based on Colony Forming Unit (CFU) and Optical Density (OD) outcome measures. The pooled data revealed significantly lower candida colonization on the milled digitally-fabricated compared to the heat-polymerized conventionally-fabricated acrylic resin materials (MD = - 0.36; 95%CI = - 0.69, - 0.03; P = 0.03 and MD = - 0.04; 95%CI = - 0.06, - 0.01; P = 0.0008; as measured by CFU and OD respectively). However, no differences were found in the adhesion of Candida albicans between the 3D-printed digitally-fabricated compared to the heat-polymerized conventionally-fabricated acrylic resin materials (CFU: P = 0.11, and OD: P = 0.20). CONCLUSION: The available evidence suggests that candida is less likely to adhere to the milled digitally-fabricated acrylic resins compared to the conventional ones.

Efficacy of photodynamic therapy on candida colonization and clinical symptoms in denture stomatitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has been recently proposed as a promising alternative therapy for Denture Stomatitis (DS). The present systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the current available evidence regarding the efficacy of PDT in the management of DS. MATERIALS AND METHODS: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and ProQuest were searched up to June 7, 2023. All relevant clinical trials were included. RevMan software was used for the statistical analyses. RESULTS: Elven randomized clinical trials (460 DS patients) were included. Eight studies assessed the efficacy of PDT vs. topical antifungal therapy, while three studies assessed the adjunctive use of PDT (PDT + antifungal therapy) vs. topical antifungal therapy alone. The results revealed comparable efficacy of PDT and conventional antifungal therapy on candida colonization at 15 days (MD: 0.95, 95% CI: -0.28, 2.19, p = 0.13) and at the end of follow-up (MD: -0.17, 95% CI: -1.33, 0.98, p = 0.77). The pooled two studies revealed relatively better efficacy of adjunctive use of PDT with antifungal therapy on candida colonization compared to antifungal therapy alone at 15 days (MD: -6.67, 95% CI: -15.15, 1.82, p = 0.12), and at the end of follow-up (MD: -7.14, 95% CI: -19.78, 5.50, p = 0.27). Additionally, the results revealed comparable efficacy of PDT and topical antifungal therapy on the clinical outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: PDT might be considered a viable option for DS either as an adjunct or as an alternative to the topical antifungal medications. Further studies with adequate sample sizes and standardized PDT parameters are warranted.

Development and Optimization of Label-Free Quantitative Proteomics under Different Crossing Periods of Bottle Gourd.

Bottle gourd, a common vegetable in the human diet, has been valued for its medicinal and energetic properties. In this experiment, the time-resolved analysis of the changes in the proteins' electrophoretic patterning of the seed development at different crossing periods was studied in bottle gourd using label-free quantitative proteomics. Hybrid HBGH-35 had the highest observed protein levels at the 4th week of the crossing period (F4) compared to the parental lines, viz. G-2 (M) and Pusa Naveen (F). The crossing period is significantly correlated with grain filling and reserve accumulation. The observed protein expression profile after storage was related to seed maturation and grain filling in bottle gourds. A total of 2517 proteins were identified in differentially treated bottle gourd fruits, and 372 proteins were differentially expressed between different crossing periods. Proteins related to carbohydrate and energy metabolism, anthocyanin biosynthesis, cell stress response, and fruit firmness were characterized and quantified. Some proteins were involved in the development, while others were engaged in desiccation and the early grain-filling stage. F4 was distinguished by an increase in the accumulation of low molecular weight proteins and enzymes such as amylase, a serine protease, and trypsin inhibitors. The seed vigor also followed similar patterns of differential expression of seed storage proteins. Our findings defined a new window during seed production, which showed that at F4, maximum photosynthetic assimilates accumulated, resulting in an enhanced source-sink relationship and improved seed production. Our study attempts to observe the protein expression profiling pattern under different crossing periods using label-free quantitative proteomics in bottle gourd. It will facilitate future detailed investigation of the protein associated with quality traits and the agronomic importance of bottle gourd through selective breeding programs.

Bibliometric analysis and evaluation of the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry from 1970 to 2019.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: A comprehensive bibliometric analysis to determine different aspects of the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry is lacking. PURPOSE: The purpose of this bibliometric study was to analyze the characteristics of the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry between 1970 and 2019. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The Web of Science Core Collection was used to retrieve 9 categories of the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry, including keywords and terms used, cited documents published, the countries and organizations of the authors, references, and sources cited during this period. Data were exported to a software program and analyzed for each 10-year period and for the entire 50 years. The highest 10 in each category were reported. Co-occurrence, couthorships, and linkage were also reported. RESULTS: A total of 11 989 records were reached by the search on the Web of Science Core Collection database; of which, 10 638 (92.9%) were included in the analysis. Articles made up 91.1%, of all records, with 217 review documents (1.8%). The most productive decade was 1980 to 1989 with 2936 documents. The total number of citations of all documents (available period 1980 to 2019) including self-citations was 155 112. During the period 1970 to 2019, 14 837 terms were used. The total number of keywords was 4933 (available period 1990 to 2019). There were 15 382 authors, 82 countries, and 2113 organizations identified in articles published in the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry during this period, with most from the United States. There were 43 027 authors, 95 324 references, and 14 594 sources cited in the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry during the period surveyed. CONCLUSIONS: This bibliometric analysis provided a comprehensive overview of the impactful role of the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry in contemporary dentistry, particularly in the field of prosthodontics.

Quality of web-based Arabic health information on dental implants: an infodemiological study.

BACKGROUND: In the era of the internet, patients seek health information ahead of getting the required treatment. Dental implant, which is among the most sought dental treatments, is not an exception. Incorrect health related information may lead to harmful deeds, so this study sought to assess the quality of web-based Arabic health information on dental implants. METHODS: The following engines were searched: Google ( http://www.google.com ), Yahoo! ( http://www.yahoo.com ), and Bing ( http://www.bing.com ) on 13 January 2022 for specific Arabic terms on "dental implants". The first 100 consecutive websites from each engine were analyzed for eligibility. The eligible websites were assessed using JAMA benchmarks tool, DISCERN tool, and HONcode. An online tool (including FKGL, SMOG and FRE) was used to assess readability of the websites. RESULTS: There were 65 eligible websites, of which only one (1.5%) was HONcode certified. Only 3 (4.5%) websites attained a high score (> 65 out of 80) based on DISCERN tool: The mean DISCERN score was 41.14 ± 12.64. The mean JAMA score was 1.69 ± 1.13; however, only five (7.6%) met all JAMA criteria. The main shortcomings were attributed to not meeting the "Attribution" (54 [83.1%]) and "Authorship" (43 [66.2%]) criteria. The mean grade level of FKGL score was 7.0 ± 4.5. The majority of the websites (60%) scored less than 7, indicating easy content to understand. The mean grade level of SMOG score required to understand a website's text was 3.2 ± 0.6. Around 91% of the websites had reading ease scores ≥ 80, suggesting that the website's content was easy to read. CONCLUSION: Unfortunately, although readable, most of the easily accessible web-based Arabic health information on dental implants does not meet the recognized quality standards.

The impact of periodontal disease on the clinical outcomes of COVID-19: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: A possible relationship between periodontitis (PD) and COVID-19 and its adverse outcomes has been suggested. Hence, the present systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to investigate the available evidence regarding the potential association between periodontitis (PD) and COVID-19 and its adverse outcomes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar were searched for relevant studies published up to April 15th, 2023. Studies that evaluated the association between PD and COVID-19 were included. Risk of bias was evaluated by two reviewers, and meta-analyses were performed using RevMan 5.3 software. RESULTS: A total of 22 studies involving 92,535 patients from USA, Europe, Asia, the Middle East and South America were included; of these, 12 were pooled into the meta-analysis. Most of the studies (19 studies) reported a significant association between PD and COVID-19. The pooled data found a significant association between PD and COVID-19 outcomes: more severe symptoms (OR = 6.95, P = 0.0008), ICU admissions (OR = 3.15, P = 0.0001), and mortality (OR = 1.92, P = 0.21). Additionally, compared to mild PD, severe PD was significantly associated with higher risks of severe COVID-19 outcomes: severe symptoms (P = 0.02); ICU admission (P = 0.0001); and higher mortality rates (P = 0.0001). The results also revealed 58% higher risk for COVID-19 infection in patients with PD (P = 0.00001). CONCLUSIONS: The present findings suggest a possible association between poor periodontal health and the risk of poor COVID-19 outcomes. However, owing to the observed methodological heterogeneity across the included studies, further prospective cohort studies with standardized methodologies are warranted to further unravel the potential association between periodontal disease and COVID-19 and its adverse outcomes.

The influence of horizontal glass fiber posts on fracture strength and fracture pattern of endodontically treated teeth: A systematic review and meta-analysis of in vitro studies.

PURPOSE: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to summarize available evidence regarding the effect of horizontal glass fiber posts (HGFPs) on fracture strength and fracture pattern of endodontically treated teeth (ETT) compared to controls without HGFP. The review protocol was registered on the OSF registries. METHODS: Literature searches were conducted in MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, Google Scholar, and ProQuest for all relevant studies published up to February 2022. All in vitro studies that assessed the influence of HGFPs on fracture strength and fracture pattern of ETT whether mesio-occluso-distal or mesio-occlusal or DO cavities were considered eligible. Review Manager (RevMan) was used for the meta-analysis. Subgroup and funnel plot analyses were also performed. Quality assessment was conducted by two independent reviewers. RESULTS: A total of 12 articles met the inclusion criteria, and 10 studies underwent quantitative evaluation. The pooled effect showed that fracture resistance of molar teeth restored with HGFP was significantly higher than teeth without HGFP (standardized mean difference [SMD]: 1.61, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.14, 3.09, p = 0.03), whereas marginally significant for premolars (SMD: 1.36, 95% CI: -0.00, 2.73, p = 0.05). Regarding fracture patterns, the presence of an HGFP significantly increased the occurrence of restorable fracture patterns for premolars (odds ratios [OR]: 4.15, 95% CI: 1.60, 10.82, p = 0.004) compared to controls, whereas the difference was not significant for molars (OR: 1.09, 95% CI: 0.43, 2.77, p = 0.85). Moderate risk of bias was identified in 9/12 studies; one study showed a high risk of bias and two studies showed a low risk of bias. CONCLUSIONS: Within the limitations of this study, there is evidence from in vitro studies that the use of HGFP increases the fracture resistance of the ETT when compared to teeth without HGFP and also reduces the occurrence of non-restorable fractures for premolars. However, well-conducted in vitro and prospective clinical studies are warranted to validate this finding.

Clinical Outcomes of Three versus Four Mini-Implants Retaining Mandibular Overdenture: A 5-Year Randomized Clinical Trial.

Background and Objectives: Due to a lack of long-term clinical studies that would clarify whether the insertion of three mini-implants (MDIs) can be as successful treatment as the insertion of four MDIs for the retention of mandibular overdentures (ODs), this 5-year prospective cohort study was set up. Materials and Methods: Participants (n = 83) randomly received either four or three MDIs and a mandibular OD. Clinical examinations were performed at the baseline, as well as after one, three, and five years, respectively. A total of 73 participants (38 in the four-MDI and 35 in the three-MDI groups) partook in the study. The marginal bone level change, success and survival rates, and prosthodontic maintenance were assessed. Results: Repeated measures showed that the mean peri-implant bone loss increased progressively at a small amount over five years in both groups (four-MDI group = -0.36 ± 0.74; three-MDI group = -0.33 ± 0.27 mm; p < 0.05). However, an ANCOVA revealed no significant effects of the group (no significant difference between the three- and the four-MDI groups; F = 0.085; p = 0.771), gender (F = 0.023; p = 0.88), or covariate age (F = 1.95; p = 0.167) on the dependent variable: the 5-year MBL change. The success rate (together with successful survival) was 93.8% in the four-MDI group and 91.7% in the three-MDI group. The log-rank (Mantel-Cox) test revealed no significant differences between them (X2 = 0.373; p = 0.541). Conclusions: In patients with narrow ridges, the insertion of three MDIs in the mandible for overdenture retention can be equally as successful as the insertion of four MDIs.

Children with Down syndrome: association of Bcl-I polymorphism of nuclear receptor subfamily 3 group C member 1 gene with obesity.

BACKROUND: This study aimed to assess the possible association between rs41423247 (Bcl-I) polymorphism in the gene for the human glucocorticoid receptor (GR) called Nuclear Receptor Subfamily 3 Group C Member 1 (NR3C1) with obesity in Egyptian children with and without Down syndrome. METHODS: The Bcl-I polymorphism was assessed, using real-time PCR, in 300 children divided into four groups: Down-obese, Down-non obese, normal-obese, and normal non-obese. RESULTS: There was no significant difference between normal-obese and normal-non obese children regarding the Bcl-I genotypes and allele frequencies, while there was a significant difference between Down-obese and Down-non obese children regarding the Bcl-I GC genotype frequency. Again, there was a highly significant difference between Down-obese and normal-non obese children and between children with Down-syndrome (obese and non-obese) and normal children (obese and non-obese) regarding the Bcl-I genotypes and alleles frequencies. CONCLUSIONS: Our study found a weak association of the G allele of Bcl-I rs41423247 with the presence of obesity among normal Egyptian children, while there was a significant association of the mutant C allele of the Bcl-I rs41423247 with Down syndrome, suggesting a possible association with Down syndrome pathophysiology. IMPACT: Bcl-I polymorphism is not strikingly associated with obesity in normal children. The GG genotype is higher in obese normal children but without significant difference. The significant increase of the mutant C allele in Down-children than normal children. This may be relevant to Down syndrome's pathophysiology which disturbs the whole genome's balance.

Drought-tolerant Bacillus megaterium isolated from semi-arid conditions induces systemic tolerance of wheat under drought conditions.

KEY MESSAGE: A detailed study of the response of wheat plants, inoculated with drought-tolerant PGPR is studied which would be beneficial to achieve genetic improvement of wheat for drought tolerance. Drought stress, a major challenge under current climatic conditions, adversely affects wheat productivity. In the current study, we observed the response of wheat plants, inoculated with drought-tolerant plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) Bacillus megaterium (MU2) and Bacillus licheniformis (MU8) under induced drought stress. In vitro study of 90 rhizobacteria exhibited 38 isolates showed one or more plant growth-promoting properties, such as solubilization of phosphorus, potassium, and exopolysaccharide production. Four strains revealing the best activities were tested for their drought-tolerance ability by growing them on varying water potentials (- 0.05 to - 0.73 MPa). Among them, two bacterial strains Bacillus megaterium and Bacillus licheniformis showed the best drought-tolerance potential, ACC deaminase activities, IAA production, and antagonistic activities against plant pathogens. Additionally, these strains when exposed to drought stress (- 0.73 MPa) revealed the induction of three new polypeptides (18 kDa, 35 kDa, 30 kDa) in Bacillus megaterium. We determined that 106 cells/mL of Bacillus megaterium and Bacillus licheniformis were enough to induce drought tolerance in wheat under drought stress. These drought-tolerant strains increased the germination index (11-46%), promptness index (16-50%), seedling vigor index (11-151%), fresh weight (35-192%), and dry weight (58-226%) of wheat under irrigated and drought stress. Moreover, these strains efficiently colonized the wheat roots and increased plant biomass, relative water content, photosynthetic pigments, and osmolytes. Upon exposure to drought stress, Bacillus megaterium inoculated wheat plants exhibited improved tolerance by enhancing 59% relative water content, 260, 174 and 70% chlorophyll a, b and carotenoid, 136% protein content, 117% proline content and 57% decline in MDA content. Further, activities of defense-related antioxidant enzymes were also upregulated. Our results revealed that drought tolerance was more evident in Bacillus megaterium as compared to Bacillus licheniformis. These strains could be effective bioenhancer and biofertilizer for wheat cultivation in arid and semi-arid regions. However, a detailed study at the molecular level to deduce the mechanism by which these strains alleviate drought stress in wheat plants needs to be explored.

Review of Learning-Based Robotic Manipulation in Cluttered Environments.

Robotic manipulation refers to how robots intelligently interact with the objects in their surroundings, such as grasping and carrying an object from one place to another. Dexterous manipulating skills enable robots to assist humans in accomplishing various tasks that might be too dangerous or difficult to do. This requires robots to intelligently plan and control the actions of their hands and arms. Object manipulation is a vital skill in several robotic tasks. However, it poses a challenge to robotics. The motivation behind this review paper is to review and analyze the most relevant studies on learning-based object manipulation in clutter. Unlike other reviews, this review paper provides valuable insights into the manipulation of objects using deep reinforcement learning (deep RL) in dense clutter. Various studies are examined by surveying existing literature and investigating various aspects, namely, the intended applications, the techniques applied, the challenges faced by researchers, and the recommendations adopted to overcome these obstacles. In this review, we divide deep RL-based robotic manipulation tasks in cluttered environments into three categories, namely, object removal, assembly and rearrangement, and object retrieval and singulation tasks. We then discuss the challenges and potential prospects of object manipulation in clutter. The findings of this review are intended to assist in establishing important guidelines and directions for academics and researchers in the future.

Effects of calcium hydroxide intracanal medicament on push-out bond strength of endodontic sealers: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of calcium hydroxide intracanal medicament on the push-out bond strength of resin-based and calcium silicate-based endodontic sealers. METHODS: A comprehensive search of was conducted for all relevant in-vitro studies. All randomized controlled in-vitro studies that evaluated the effect of calcium hydroxide on the push-out bond strength of resin-based or calcium silicate-based endodontic sealers were assessed. The variables of interest were extracted, and the risk of the included studies was evaluated. The standardized mean difference was calculated and the significance level was set at p value <0.05. RESULTS: A total of 26 studies were eligible for analysis. There were 45 independent comparison groups and 1009 recruited teeth. The pooled data showed no significant difference in push-out bond strength between calcium hydroxide and control group in the resin-based group (SMD = 0.03; 95% CI = -0.55, 0.60; p = 0.93), and calcium silicate-based group (SMD = 0.02; 95% CI = -0.31, 0.35; p = 0.90). Most of the studies (21 out of 26) were at medium risk of bias and five studies showed a low risk of bias. CONCLUSION: The available evidence suggests that calcium hydroxide used as intracanal medication does not influence the push-out bond strength of the resin- and calcium silicate-based endodontic sealers. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The results of this meta-analysis suggest that calcium hydroxide used as intracanal medication does not influence the push-out bond strength of resin-based and calcium silicate-based endodontic sealers.

Oral health practices and self-reported adverse effects of E-cigarette use among dental students in 11 countries: an online survey.

OBJECTIVES: E-cigarette use has become popular, particularly among the youth. Its use is associated with harmful general and oral health consequences. This survey aimed to assess self-reported oral hygiene practices, oral and general health events, and changes in physiological functions (including physical status, smell, taste, breathing, appetite, etc.) due to E-cigarette use among dental students. METHODS: This online, multicounty survey involved undergraduate dental students from 20 dental schools across 11 different countries. The questionnaire included demographic characteristics, E-cigarette practices, self-reported complaints, and associated physiological changes due to E-cigarette smoking. Data were descriptively presented as frequencies and percentages. A Chi-square test was used to assess the potential associations between the study group and sub-groups with the different factors. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS at P < 0.05. RESULTS: Most respondents reported regular brushing of their teeth, whereas only 70% used additional oral hygiene aids. Reported frequencies of complaints ranged from as low as 3.3% for tongue inflammation to as high as 53.3% for headache, with significant differences between E-cigarette users and non-users. Compared to non-smokers, E-cigarette users reported significantly higher prevalence of dry mouth (33.1% vs. 23.4%; P < 0.001), black tongue (5.9% vs. 2.8%; P = 0.002), and heart palpitation (26.3%% vs. 22.8%; P = 0.001). Although two-thirds of the sample reported no change in their physiological functions, E-cigarette users reported significant improvement in their physiological functions compared to never smokers or tobacco users. CONCLUSION: Dental students showed good oral hygiene practices, but E-cigarette users showed a higher prevalence of health complications.

Fracture Resistance of Titanium and Fiber Dental Posts: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

PURPOSE: The fracture resistance of dental post systems is influenced by the material of the post. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess if there is a difference in fracture resistance between prefabricated dental titanium posts and fiber posts. METHODS: An online electronic search was performed using the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases for in vitro studies published from 2010 to 2020 in English. The retrieved eligible studies that compared the fracture resistance of titanium and fiber posts on human teeth were selected. The pooled standardized mean difference (SMD) with a 95% confidence interval was calculated. In addition, the trial sequential analysis (TSA) was performed to test if the available studies are sufficient to make conclusive evidence. RESULTS: Of the 1165 retrieved studies, 17 studies were included in the qualitative analysis, while 16 studies were included in the quantitative analysis. Because of the high heterogeneity among studies, data from 10 studies were pooled and submitted to TSA. A total of 852 teeth were evaluated for fracture of the posts in 27 independent comparison groups. The pooled effect of the residual studies revealed no significant difference between titanium and fiber posts (SMD = -0.12; 95% CI = -0.30, 0.06; p = 0.20). Results of the TSA revealed no conclusive evidence. CONCLUSIONS: The results of the current evidence revealed no significant difference between fiber and titanium posts. The evidence is insufficient, and more standardized in vitro studies are required.

Curcumin mouthwashes versus chlorhexidine in controlling plaque and gingivitis: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of the present systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess the available evidence regarding the efficacy of curcumin mouthwashes on plaque and gingivitis. METHODS: A comprehensive online search of multiple databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar) was performed to identify all relevant studies published up to August 2020, using the following keywords: curcumin, turmeric, gingivitis, periodontal health, and plaque control. All clinical trials that compared the efficacy of curcumin mouthwash with chlorhexidine in controlling dental plaque and gingivitis were included. Data were analysed using Review Manager (RevMan) 5.3 software. The risk of bias was evaluated by two independent reviewers using the Cochrane assessment tool. RESULTS: Six randomized clinical trials (comprising 320 subjects) fulfilled the eligibility criteria. Five studies showed a high risk of bias and only one study showed a low risk of bias. The pooled data of the six included studies revealed comparable efficacy of curcumin and chlorhexidine in reducing dental plaque (I2  = 91%; standardized mean difference [SMD]: 0.27, 95% CI: -0.53, 1.07, p = 0. 51) and gingival inflammation (I2  = 40%; SMD: -0.13, 95% CI: -0.35, 0.09, p = 0.24), with no statistically significant differences between the two groups. CONCLUSION: The results suggest that curcumin mouthwashes have promising anti-plaque and anti-gingivitis properties. Further clinical trials with adequate sample sizes and standardized methodologies are required to discern the efficacy of curcumin mouthwash in reducing plaque and gingivitis.

Thiamin stimulates growth and secondary metabolites in turnip (Brassica rapa L.) leaf and root under drought stress.

Thiamin, an important member of the vitamin B family, is believed to play a significant role in mitigating environmental stresses including drought stress. In turnip, drought stress causes a reduced growth, biomass yield, pigment content, total phenolics and ascorbic acid (AsA), particularly at 50% field capacity (F.C.) in the two cultivars (cv) studied. However, a significant enhancement was observed in the contents of leaf proline, glycinebetaine (GB), malondialdehyde (MDA), hydrogen peroxide (H2 O2 ) and the activities of catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) as well as root proline, GB, total phenolics, AsA, H2 O2 , MDA and the activities of peroxidase (POD) and SOD. However, foliar-applied thiamin significantly improved (particularly 100 mM) all the growth attributes, photosynthetic pigments, leaf and root osmoprotectants (GB and proline), AsA, total phenolics and the activities of enzymatic antioxidants such as SOD and POD as well as root CAT in both turnip cultivars under drought stress conditions. Foliar application of thiamin was effective in decreasing the leaf and root H2 O2 and MDA content in both cultivars particularly at 50% F.C. Thiamin-induced growth of both turnip cultivars, particularly of cv. Purple Top, was found to be associated with increased photosynthetic pigments, proline and GB contents and antioxidant capacity, but reduced levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) under water deficit conditions. So, it is suggested that exogenous application of thiamin can be effective in improving drought tolerance of plants.