Clinical influencing factors of vital pulp therapy on pulpitis permanent teeth with 2 calcium silicate-based materials: A randomized clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Compared with traditional root canal therapy (RCT), vital pulp therapy (VPT) is a personalized and minimally invasive method for the treatment of pulpitis caused by dental caries. However, there are still no clear guidelines for VPT because high-quality randomized clinical trials are scarce. This prospective cohort study evaluated the clinical efficacy of VPT with the light-curable calcium silicate-based material TheraCal LC (TH) and bioceramic material iRoot BP Plus (BP) in reversible and irreversible pulpitis permanent teeth with carious exposures. METHODS: 115 teeth with reversible or irreversible pulpitis caused by deep care were randomly divided into 2 groups. TheraCal LC and iRoot BP Plus were used for the pulp capping. Direct pulp capping (DPC), partial pulpotomy (PP) and full pulpotomy (FP) were performed based on observation of the exposed pulp. Postoperative discomforts were enquired and recorded via follow-up phone calls. Clinical and radiographic evaluations were performed 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. RESULTS: The overall clinical success rate in the first year was 90.4% (47/52) in both groups. The TH group required less operating time, showed lower levels of pain, and had shorter pain duration post-operative (P < .001). According to the binary logistic regression model, preoperative pain duration was significantly correlated with the prognosis of VPT (P = .011). CONCLUSION: VPT with TheraCal LC and iRoot BP Plus in pulpitis permanent carious teeth both achieved good clinical outcomes, and TheraCal LC can be easily operated for clinical use. Preoperative pain duration of the affected tooth might have a significant correlation with the prognosis of VPT.

Intra-allantoic injection of calcium promotes hatching of chick embryos grown in shell-less culture.

The hatch rate of chick embryos cultured outside of the eggshell with 350 mg calcium l-lactate hydrate (CaL) and 3.5 mL water is fourfold greater in cultures in which the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) surrounds the egg contents by incubation day 17.5 (E17.5) an event which occurs in ovo by E13. It was first investigated whether decreasing the volume of water added with 350 mg CaL would promote CAM expansion due to the smaller volume to enclose. When 350 mg CaL was present, the CAM did not surround the egg contents by E13. By E17.5, the CAM surrounded the egg contents in 53%-74% of cultures; however, CAM expansion was not significantly different when 0, 1, 2, or 3.5 mL water was present. The hatch rate with 2 or 3.5 mL water was greater than 50% but was not improved with less water. Second, it was investigated whether CaL or water inhibits CAM expansion. In the absence of CaL, the CAM surrounded the egg contents in up to two-thirds of cultures by E13, whether 2 mL water was present or not. Thus CaL, but not water, inhibits expansion of the CAM by E13, even though CaL promotes hatching. Finally, it was investigated whether injection of aqueous CaL into the allantoic fluid, in conjunction with not adding CaL to culture hammocks, would promote CAM expansion. Allantoic injection of CaL starting at E13 did not promote CAM expansion at E17.5 but resulted in hatch rates of approximately 30%. Allantoic injection is a novel route for supplementation of calcium in cultured chick embryos.

Pyrolysis of High-Ash Natural Microalgae from Water Blooms: Effects of Acid Pretreatment.

Natural microalgae (NA, cyanobacteria) collected from Taihu Lake (Jiangsu, China) were used for biofuel production through pyrolysis. The microalgae were de-ashed via pretreatment with deionized water and hydrochloric acid, and the samples obtained were noted as 0 M, 0.1 M, 1 M, 2 M, 4 M, 6 M, 8 M, respectively, according to the concentration of hydrochloric acid used in the pretreatment. Pyrolysis experiments were carried out at 500 °C for 2 h. The products were examined by various techniques to identify the influence of the ash on the pyrolysis behavior. The results showed that the ash inhibited the thermal transformation of microalgae. The 2 mol/L hydrochloric acid performed the best in removing ash and the liquid yield increased from 34.4% (NA) to 40.5% (2 M). Metal-oxides (mainly CaO, MgO, Al2O3) in ash promoted the reaction of hexadecanoic acid and NH3 to produce more hexadecanamide, which was further dehydrated to hexadecanenitrile. After acid pretreatment, significant improvement in the selectivity of hexadecanoic acid was observed, ranging from 22.4% (NA) to 58.8% (4 M). The hydrocarbon compounds in the liquid product increased from 12.90% (NA) to 26.67% (2 M). Furthermore, the acid pretreatment enhanced the content of C9-C16 compounds and the HHV values of bio-oil. For natural microalgae, the de-ashing pretreatment before pyrolysis was essential for improving the biocrude yield and quality, as well as the biomass conversion efficiency.

Effects of mesoporous SiO2-CaO nanospheres on the murine peritoneal macrophages/Candidaalbicans interface.

The use of nanoparticles for intracellular drug delivery could reduce the toxicity and side effects of the drug but, the uptake of these nanocarriers could induce adverse effects on cells and tissues after their incorporation. Macrophages play a central role in host defense and are responsible for in vivo nanoparticle trafficking. Assessment of their defense capacity against pathogenic micro-organisms after nanoparticle uptake, is necessary to prevent infections associated with nanoparticle therapies. In this study, the effects of hollow mesoporous SiO2-CaO nanospheres labeled with fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC-NanoMBGs) on the function of peritoneal macrophages was assessed by measuring their ability to phagocytize Candidaalbicans expressing a red fluorescent protein. Two macrophage/fungus ratios (MOI1 and MOI5) were used and two experimental strategies were carried out: a) pretreatment of macrophages with FITC-NanoMBGs and subsequent fungal infection; b) competition assays after simultaneous addition of fungus and nanospheres. Macrophage pro-inflammatory phenotype markers (CD80 expression and interleukin 6 secretion) were also evaluated. Significant decreases of CD80+ macrophage percentage and interleukin 6 secretion were observed after 30 min, indicating that the simultaneous incorporation of NanoMBG and fungus favors the macrophage non-inflammatory phenotype. The present study evidences that the uptake of these nanospheres in all the studied conditions does not alter the macrophage function. Moreover, intracellular FITC-NanoMBGs induce a transitory increase of the fungal phagocytosis by macrophages at MOI 1 and after a short time of interaction. In the competition assays, as the intracellular fungus quantity increased, the intracellular FITC-NanoMBG content decreased in a MOI- and time-dependent manner. These results have confirmed that macrophages clearly distinguish between inert material and the live yeast in a dynamic intracellular incorporation. Furthermore, macrophage phagocytosis is a critical determinant to know their functional state and a valuable parameter to study the nanomaterial / macrophages / Candida albicans interface.

Effectiveness of a toothpaste and a serum containing calcium silicate on protecting the enamel after interproximal reduction against demineralization.

To evaluate the effectiveness of a calcium silicate/phosphate fluoridated tooth paste and a serum compared with a toothpaste containing hydroxyapatite on protecting the enamel after interproximal reduction against demineralization. 3 sets of eleven incisors were created. The teeth underwent interproximal enamel reduction (IER) of 0.5 mm. Each set was allocated to one of three groups: (1) Brushing without toothpaste (control group); (2) Vitis toothpaste + Remin Pro; (3) Regenerate toothpaste + Regenerate Serum. The agents were applied three times a day and specimens subjected to demineralization cycles for 30 days. The weight percentages of calcium (Ca) and phosphorous (P) were quantified by X-ray microfluorescence spectroscopy. Surface microhardness measurements and electron scanning microscopy (SEM) observations were made. Ca data and the Ca/P ratio were significantly higher in Group 3 than the other groups (p < 0.017), while P was significantly lower in Group 3 (p < 0.017). No significant differences were found between Groups 1 and 2 (p > 0.017). Group 3 showed significantly higher microhardness values (p < 0.05) than Group 1. No significant differences were found for other comparisons between groups (p < 0.05). SEM images showed less demineralization in Group 3. The application of a calcium silicate/phosphate fluoridated tooth paste (Regenerate advance) and a dual serum (Regenerate advance enamel serum) protect the enamel with interproximal reduction against demineralization. Therefore, this treatment could be used to prevent the dissolution of hydroxyapatite after IER.

Calcium supplementation and cardiovascular disease in postmenopausal women: a study in South Brazil / Suplementação de cálcio e doença cardiovascular em mulheres na pós-menopausa: um estudo no Sul do Brasil

Objective: To evaluate the link between calcium supplementa- tion and cardiovascular disease in postmenopausal women (aged 55 years or older). Methods: A standardized questionnaire was employed to collect data about calcium supplements, eart di- sease, and demographic of women attended at Primary Care in the South Region of Brazil. Generalized linear regression models were performed to evaluate the association and adjust for poten- tial confounders. Results: Overall, 1,057 women completed the questionnaire. Information about calcium supplementation was present in 1,035 questionnaires. The mean ± standard deviation of the age of participants was 67.2±7.6 years. The frequency of calcium supplementation was 18.6%. There was no association between heart failure, stroke, and ischemic heart disease and cal- cium supplementation (prevalence ratio; 95% confidence interval of 0.3; -0.9-0.4, -0.2; -0.8-0.4 and -0.5; -1.0-0.02, respectively. Con- clusions: Our study did not find an association of higher risk of cardiovascular disease in women using calcium supplementation at Primary Care in South Brazil.

Objetivo: Avaliar a ligação entre a suplementação de cálcio e doença cardiovascular em mulheres na pós-menopausa (com 55 anos ou mais). Métodos: Um questionário padronizado foi em- pregado para coletar dados sobre suplementos de cálcio, doenças cardíacas e demográficos de mulheres que frequentavam a Aten- ção Primária na Região Sul do Brasil. Modelos de regressão linear generalizada foram realizados para avaliar a associação e ajustar os potenciais fatores de confusão. Resultados: No total, 1.057 mulheres responderam ao questionário. As informações sobre su- plementação de cálcio estavam presentes em 1.035 questionários. A média ± desvio-padrão da idade dos participantes foi de 67,2 ± 7,6 anos. A frequência de suplementação de cálcio foi de 18,6%. Não houve associação entre insuficiência cardíaca, acidente vas- cular cerebral e doença cardíaca isquêmica e suplementação de cálcio (razão de prevalência; intervalo de confiança de 95% de -0,3; -0,9-0,4, -0,2; -0,8-0,4 e -0,5; -1,0-0,02, respectivamente). Con- clusão: Nosso estudo não encontrou associação de maior risco de doença cardiovascular em mulheres em uso de suplementação de cálcio na Atenção Primária no Sul do Brasil.

Recubrimiento directo con agregado trióxido mineral (MTA) comparado con hidróxido de calcio para caries dentinaria profunda en pacientes con dentición permanente / Direct pulp capping using mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) versus calcium hydroxide for deep dental caries in permanent dentition

RESUMEN: Introducción: El recubrimiento pulpar directo es un método para tratar la pulpa vital expuesta conservando su vitalidad. Tradicionalmente se ha utilizado el hidróxido de calcio como material de elección para este tratamiento, sin embargo, sus efectos adversos han promovido el desarrollo y utilización de agregado trióxido mineral (MTA), del cual aún existe controversia sobre una mayor efectividad. Métodos: Realizamos una búsqueda en Epistemonikos, la mayor base de datos de revisiones sistemáticas en salud, la cual es mantenida mediante el cribado de múltiples fuentes de información, incluyendo MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane, entre otras. Extrajimos los datos desde las revisiones identificadas, analizamos los datos de los estudios primarios, realizamos un metanálisis y preparamos una tabla de resumen de los resultados utilizando el método GRADE. Resultados y conclusiones: Identificamos cuatro revisiones sistemáticas que en conjunto incluyeron siete estudios primarios, de los cuales, cuatro corresponden a ensayos aleatorizados. Concluimos que el recubrimiento directo con agregado trióxido mineral (MTA) comparado con hidróxido de calcio probablemente aumenta el éxito clínico y que podría aumentar la sobrevida pulpar, pero la certeza de la evidencia es baja.

ABSTRACT: Introduction: Direct pulp capping has been suggested as the treatment of exposed vital pulp. Conventionally calcium hydroxide (CH) has been the main biomaterial option for maintaining pulp vitality, but its adverse effects have promoted the development and use of mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA). However, there is still uncertainty regarding its effectiveness. Methods: We searched in Epistemonikos, the largest database of systematic reviews in health, which is maintained by screening multiple information sources, including MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane, among others. We extracted data from the systematic reviews, reanalyzed data of primary studies, conducted a meta-analysis and generated a summary of findings table using the GRADE approach. Results and conclusions: We identified four systematic reviews including seven studies overall, of which four were randomized trials. We conclude that direct pulp capping with mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) probably improves clinical success rate and may improve pulp survival rate, however, the certainty of the evidence has been assessed as low.

Pulpotomía parcial con agregado de trióxido mineral (MTA) comparado con hidróxido de calcio en caries dentinaria profunda en pacientes con dientes permanentes inmaduros / Partial pulpotomy with mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) versus calcium hydroxide in immature permanent teeth with deep caries

RESUMEN: Introducción: La pulpotomía parcial se utiliza para el tratamiento de caries con exposición pulpar en dientes permanentes inmaduros. El agregado de trióxido mineral (MTA) ha sido propuesto como uno de los biomateriales de elección para el tratamiento, pero existe incertidumbre en relación a su efectividad comparado con la del hidróxido de calcio. Métodos: Realizamos una búsqueda en Epistemonikos, la mayor base de datos de revisiones sistemáticas en salud, la cual es mantenida mediante el cribado de múltiples fuentes de información, incluyendo MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane, entre otras. Extrajimos los datos desde las revisiones identificadas, analizamos los datos de los estudios primarios, realizamos un metanálisis y preparamos una tabla de resumen de los resultados utilizando el método GRADE. Resultados y conclusiones: Encontramos cinco revisiones sistemáticas, que incluyeron tres estudios primarios, de los cuales todos corresponden a ensayos aleatorizados. Concluimos que la pulpotomía parcial con agregado de trióxido mineral (MTA) podría resultar en poca o nula diferencia en la tasa de éxito comparado a la pulpotomía parcial con hidróxido de calcio, pero la certeza de la evidencia es baja.

ABSTRACT: Introduction: Partial pulpotomy is the treatment of choice following carious pulp exposure in immature permanent teeth. Mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) has been suggested as the biomaterial first option for treatment, but there is still uncertainty regarding its effectiveness compared to calcium hydroxide. Methods: We searched in Epistemonikos, the largest database of systematic reviews in health, which is maintained by screening multiple information sources, including MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane, among others. We extracted data from the systematic reviews, reanalyzed data of primary studies, conducted a meta-analysis and generated a summary of findings table using the GRADE approach. Results and conclusions: We identified five systematic reviews including three studies overall, of which all were randomized trials. We conclude that partial pulpotomy with mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) may make little or no difference to success rate compared to partial pulpotomy with calcium hydroxide, however, the certainty of the evidence has been assessed as low.

Investigating the health disparities in the association between lifestyle behaviors and the risk of head and neck cancer.

Many studies have reported a positive association between lower socioeconomic status (SES) and higher head and neck cancer (HNC) risk. Fewer studies have examined the impact of SES on the association between alcohol or cigarette use and HNC risk. The current case-control study (1104 HNC cases and 1363 controls) investigated the influence of education, a SES indicator, on the association between HNC and the use of alcohol, cigarettes, or betel quids in Taiwan, a country with universal health care. Our results showed a larger increase in HNC risk associated with alcohol among those with lower educational level (odds ratio [OR] = 2.07; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.53-2.80) than those with higher educational level (OR = 1.38; 95% CI, 1.04-1.85) (heterogeneity-P = .03). Educational level had an influence on the association between alcohol use and HNC risk among those with genetic susceptibility (ALDH2-deficient) to the carcinogenic effect of alcohol. The association between cigarette or betel quid use and HNC risk was similar between the high and low educational groups. National policies and social interventions have led to the decline in the prevalence of cigarette and betel quid users in Taiwan. In contrast, due to the lack of adequate alcohol control policies, alcohol consumption in Taiwan has continued to rise. A higher impact of alcohol on HNC risk among lower SES individuals even with universal health care could be the result of insufficient alcohol control policies in Taiwan.

Induction of root development and apical closure in permanent mandibular molar with irreversible pulpitis through total pulpotomy with application of mineral trioxide aggregate / Inducción del termino de desarrollo radicular y cierre apical en molar mandibular permanente con pulpitis irreversible a través de pulpotomía total con aplicación de agregado de trióxido mineral

Loss of teeth vitality when root formation is incomplete, results in weaker structures leaving them prone to fractures and unfavourable long-term prognosis. Apexogenesis is currently the treatment of choice in immature teeth and is indicated in vital teeth without pulpal pathologies. The treatment aims to eliminate the causal agent of the damage, and provide the necessary conditions to preserve vitality in the tooth and induce apical root closure. A 6-year-old male patient was treated at the Endodontics Clinic, Universidad de La Frontera upon complaining of acute pain in tooth 30. The tooth presented incomplete root development due to dental caries with pulp exposure and a diagnosis of irreversible symptomatic pulpitis. Total pulpotomy was performed with the application of Mineral Trioxide Aggregate and controlled at 1, 4, 6, 7 and 12 months, achieving root development and apical closure in the permanent molar. The result was comparable with studies that support this therapy in teeth with irreversible pulpitis. This work seeks to contribute to the existing evidence on the management of immature permanent teeth with irreversible pulpitis to induce root development and apical closure, and maintain pulp vitality.

La pérdida de vitalidad en dientes con formación radicular incompleta trae como resultado el debilitamiento de estos, dejándolos propensos a fracturas con un desfavorable pronóstico a largo plazo. Las terapéuticas actuales de regeneración pulpar en dientes inmaduros estan principalmente indicadas en cuadros de pulpitis irreversible y buscan eliminar el agente causal de daño y brindarle al diente las condiciones y estímulos necesarios para preservar vitalidad e inducir el cierre apical radicular. Un paciente de 6 años de edad y de sexo masculino, acude a la Clínica de Especialidad de Endodoncia de la Universidad de la Frontera, consultando por un dolor agudo en diente 4.6 el cual presentaba un desarrollo radicular incompleto producto de una caries con exposición pulpar con diagnóstico de Pulpitis Irreversible Sintomática. Se realiza una pulpotomia total con aplicación de Mineral Trioxide Aggregate y se controla a los 1, 4, 6 y 7 meses obteniendo un interesante resultado comparable con estudios que avalan dicha terapeutica en dientes con pulpitis irreversible. Este trabajo busca contribuir a la evidencia existente sobre el manejo de dientes permanentes inmaduros con cuadros de pulpitis irreversible para inducir el desarrollo radicular, cierre apical y mantener vitalidad pulpar.

Alphitobiusdiaperinus control and physicochemical study of poultry litters treated with quicklime and shallow fermentation.

Poultry litter reuse in Brazil is a common practice to reduce broiler production costs. Quicklime and shallow fermentation treatments are methods used to reduce microbial contamination and infestation of insects such as Alphitobius diaperinus (Panzer). The aim of this study was to evaluate the physicochemical parameters of reused poultry litter to better characterize the effects of quicklime and shallow fermentation on Salmonella and A. diaperinus control. Ammonia and humidity concentrations significantly increased on the litter treated with shallow fermentation and pH when treated with virgin and hydrated quicklime. For A. diaperinus control, shallow fermentation with 2 and 3 L of water and 3 L plus 600g of quicklime/m2 eliminated 100% of the insects. Results of assessed physicochemical parameters indicated that the treatments with quicklime and shallow fermentation are inefficient to control Salmonella spp. because they do not reach the indexes required for this pathogen elimination, mainly ammonia and pH. Ammonia index produced by microbial fermentation in shallow fermentation treatment eliminates A. diaperinus.

Effect of calcium and vitamin D supplementation with and without collagen peptides on bone turnover in postmenopausal women with osteopenia.

OBJECTIVES: Collagen peptides (CPs) seem to exert beneficial effects on bone and may have a role as a treatment option. In the present randomized prospective study, we aimed to examine the efficacy, as expressed by changes in P1NP and CTX, and the tolerability of 3-month supplementation of calcium, vitamin D with or without bioactive CPs in postmenopausal women with osteopenia. METHODS: Fifty-one female, postmenopausal women with osteopenia were allocated to two groups: Group A received a sachet containing 5 g CPs, 3.6 g calcium lactate (equivalent to 500 mg of elemental calcium) and 400 IU vitamin D3 and group B received a chewable tablet containing 1.25 g calcium carbonate (equivalent to 500 mg of elemental calcium) and 400 IU vitamin D3 daily. RESULTS: In group A, the P1NP levels significantly decreased by 13.1% (p<0.001) and CTX levels decreased by 11.4% (p=0.058) within 3 months of supplementation. In group B, P1NP and CTX did not change. Group A presented better compliance in comparison to group B and no adverse events contrary to group B. CONCLUSIONS: These findings may reflect the reduction of the increased bone turnover in postmenopausal women with the use of calcium, vitamin D and CPs supplements. The addition of CPs in a calcium and vitamin D supplement may enhance its already known positive effect on bone metabolism. Clinical Trial ID: NCT03999775.

Systemic lime sulfur toxicosis secondary to dermal exposure in two cats.

OBJECTIVE: To describe a case series of systemic lime sulfur toxicosis secondary to topical administration in 2 cats. CASE SUMMARY: Two cats from the same household that were being previously treated for Microsporum canis were presented following topical administration of an incorrectly diluted lime sulfur dip. A 30% solution was used rather than the recommended 3% solution, resulting in a 10-fold concentration overdose. The cats presented to the emergency service 1 hour after dermal application of the lime sulfur product at home. The first cat, a 2-year-old female, intact Cornish Rex, had severe hypotension, bradycardia, and hypothermia. Chemical burns were also present on the ventrum and paws. Clinicopathological data revealed profound acid-base disturbances, hypercalcemia, hyperphosphatemia, and azotemia. After aggressive fluid resuscitation, electrolyte supplementation, and treatment, the patient was stabilized and discharged after 5 days of hospitalization; full recovery was later reported. The second littermate, also a 2-year-old female, intact Cornish Rex, presented the following day with similar clinical signs, physical examination findings, and clinicopathological findings. After supportive care and 2 days of hospitalization, the patient was also discharged and reported to fully recover. NEW OR UNIQUE INFORMATION PROVIDED: This case series is the first to report systemic toxicosis secondary to dermal exposure of lime sulfur. As lime sulfur is commonly used in veterinary medicine for the treatment of ectoparasites, veterinary professionals should be aware of the significant signs of poisoning that can be seen as a result of iatrogenic dosing errors by pet owners or veterinary professionals.

Immunohistochemistry and gene expression of GLUT1, RUNX2 and MTOR in reparative dentinogenesis.

OBJECTIVES: To determine glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1) and runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2) expression during reparative dentinogenesis after pulpotomy with mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) capping. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Eight-week-old male Wistar rats were used. Pulp of the upper left first molar was exposed and capped with MTA. The upper right first molar of the same animal was used as a control. After collecting molars at various time points, GLUT1, RUNX2 and mammalian target of rapamycin (MTOR) were examined by immunohistochemistry. mRNA levels of Slc2a1 (encoding GLUT1), Runx2, Nestin and Mtor were determined by real-time PCR. RESULTS: Pulp exhibited progressive formation of reparative dentine lined with GLUT1- and MTOR-immunoreactive odontoblast-like cells at 5 days after pulpotomy. RUNX2 was detected in nuclei of most pulp tissue cells at day 5 after pulpotomy. Double immunofluorescence staining revealed GLUT1 immunoreactivity on odontoblast-like cells positive for Nestin or RUNX2, 5 days after pulpotomy. Slc2a1, Runx2, Nestin and Mtor mRNA levels were significantly upregulated on days 3-5 after pulpotomy. CONCLUSIONS: After rat molar pulpotomy, dental pulp induced formation of reparative dentine with colocalization of GLUT1 and Nestin or RUNX2. Moreover, mRNA levels of Slc2a1, Runx2, Nestin and Mtor were significantly upregulated in pulpotomized dental pulp.

Liming and Nitrogen Fertilization Effects on Soil Microbial Community in Long Term No-till

Abstract Soil management influences organic matter decomposition rates as well soil microbial community functional behavior. No-till (NT) is the most used management system by farmers due to its conservation practices and high productivity. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of surface-applied lime, nitrogen (N) application, and black oat residues on soil microbial community of a Typic Hapludox under continuous NT. Therefore, soil chemical attributes, microbial biomass carbon, basal respiration, metabolic quotient, most probable number of diazotrophs, as well as bacterial functional analysis were performed. The effect of liming and N fertilization amendments inputs were saw in soil respiration and metabolic quotient measurements, showing them to be good indicators of soil quality. Further studies should be carried out in order to molecularly identify microbial communities present in soils with different liming and N fertilization management to evaluate the behavior of specific bacterial taxa under such conditions.

Cardioplegia defibrillation of circulatory and metabolic phase ventricular fibrillation in a swine model.

INTRODUCTION: We previously found potassium cardioplegia followed by rapid calcium reversal (Kplegia) can achieve defibrillation in a swine model of electrical phase of ventricular fibrillation (VF) comparable to standard care. HYPOTHESIS: Exploring 3 possible potassium dose and timing protocols, we hypothesize Kplegia may benefit resuscitation of longer duration untreated VF. METHODS: Three separate blinded randomized placebo-controlled trials were performed with electrically-induced VF untreated for durations of 6, 9, and 12min in a swine model. Experimental groups received infusion of 1 or 2 boluses of intravenous (IV) potassium followed by a single calcium reversal bolus. Potassium was replaced by saline in the control groups. Outcomes included: amplitude spectrum area (AMSA) during VF, resulting rhythms, number of defibrillations, return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC), and hemodynamics for 1h post ROSC. Binomial and interval data outcomes were compared with exact statistics. Serial interval data were assessed with mixed regression models. RESULTS: Twelve, 12, and 8 animals were included at 6, 9, and 12min VF durations for a total of 32. ROSC was achieved in: 4/6 Kplegia and 3/6 control animals in the 6min protocol, (p=1.00), 4/6 Kplegia and 2/6 control animals in the 9min protocol,(p=0.57), and 0/5 Kplegia and 1/3 control animals in the 12min protocol,(p=0.38). Two of 8 Kplegia animals achieved ROSC with chemical defibrillation alone. CONCLUSIONS: The majority of animals achieved ROSC after up to 9min of untreated VF arrest using K plegia protocols. K plegia requires further optimization for both peripheral IV and intraosseous infusion, and to assess for superiority over standard care. Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee protocol #15127224.

Home Fortification of Rice With Lime: A Novel Potential Way to Reduce Calcium Deficiency in Bangladesh.

BACKGROUND: In order to improve calcium status, fortified rice should have acceptable organoleptic properties of that food. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to assess whether home fortification of rice with slaked lime can increase calcium content of rice and whether this fortified rice is well tolerated in a nutritionally at-risk population. METHODS: This experimental study measured the calcium content of rice cooked with different concentration of lime and assessed the acceptability of fortified rice among 400 women and children. Each participant received fortified rice with one of five concentrations of lime (0, 2.5, 5, 7.5 or 10 gm per 500 gm of rice), with or without additional foods (lentil soup or fried green papaya). All participants were asked to score the organoleptic qualities on a hedonic scale. RESULTS: Analysis showed that rice calcium content increased in a dose- response manner with increased lime during cooking (76.03, 205.58, 427.55, 614.29 and 811.23 mg/kg for given lime concentrations). Acceptability of the meal was greater when additional foods were served with rice at all lime concentrations. In both groups, the 7.5M arm reported highest overall acceptability (children, 6.25; women 6.10). This study found significant association between overall acceptability (different concentrations of lime mixed rice; with/without additional foods) and between groups (women vs. children) (p value = < 0.001) where-as no association was found within groups. CONCLUSIONS: Lime-fortified rice can be feasible considering the calcium uptake of rice and organoleptic character. Further research on bioavailability can establish a solid foundation that will support design of an effective intervention to reduce calcium deficiency in this population.

Immediate restoration after mineral trioxide aggregate pulpotomy with amalgam condensation: an in vitro study.

Mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) pulpotomy may be an alternative to root canal therapy, with reported success rates as high as 85%. However, little technique-specific information has been reported regarding MTA placement in 1 visit. The purpose of this study was to evaluate different placement methods for MTA and resin-modified glass ionomer (RMGI) cement before immediate restoration with amalgam. Forty pulpotomized extracted third molars were randomly divided into 4 groups, and moist cotton was used to simulate pulp tissue in all teeth. In group 1, cotton was placed over the entire pulp chamber floor and in each canal orifice, and MTA was placed over the cotton. The procedure for group 2 was the same as that for group 1 except that a layer of RMGI was placed over the MTA. In group 3, cotton was placed in the canal orifices only, a layer of MTA was placed only over the cotton in the orifices, and RMGI was layered over the MTA and pulp chamber floor. The procedure for group 4 was the same as that for group 3 except that RMGI was placed over the MTA but not on the pulpal floor. Each of these procedures was followed by amalgam condensation. After a 7-day setting period, restored teeth were sectioned mesiodistally, photographed, measured, and evaluated for disturbance of the MTA-restoration junction. The study findings showed that the MTA layer was disturbed in 40% of the specimens in group 1, whereas 10%-20% of specimens in groups 2 through 4 demonstrated disturbed MTA. Analysis with a Pearson chi-square test indicated that the difference between group 1 and groups 2 through 4 was statistically significant (P < 0.05), but there was no significant difference (P > 0.05) between groups 2, 3, and 4. Group 3, in which MTA was placed over each canal orifice and RMGI was placed over the entire pulpal floor, performed best--only 10% of specimens exhibited deformed MTA. The findings suggest that RMGI may protect initially placed MTA during amalgam condensation.

Pharyngeal trauma in dairy cattle: 27 cases.

BACKGROUND: Characterization of the clinical signs, response to treatment and prognosis can be useful information for decision-making when evaluating cattle with pharyngeal trauma. OBJECTIVE: To describe the signalment, history, clinicopathologic, endoscopic, ultrasonographic, radiographic, and postmortem findings as well as treatments and outcomes of cattle diagnosed with pharyngeal perforation/trauma. ANIMALS: Review of medical records of cattle >1 month of age admitted to a Veterinary Teaching Hospital from 1995 to 2017. METHODS: Retrospective study. Review of medical records of cattle with pharyngeal perforation/trauma identified by oral or endoscopic examination in hospital setting. RESULTS: Twenty-seven out of 7550 (0.36%) cases met the inclusion criteria. Pharyngeal perforation/trauma was associated with the administration of a bolus in 24 (89%) cows and a magnet in 3 (11%) cases. The boluses contained monensin (n = 12), calcium salts (n = 5), iodine (n = 1), aspirin (n = 1), vitamins (n = 1), and an unknown product (n = 4). The primary clinical signs were dysphagia, swelling of the throatlatch, subcutaneous emphysema, swelling, and pain on palpation of the throatlatch. Seventeen (63%) cows were discharged whereas 10 (37%) were euthanized. Median time between the suspected traumatic event and hospital admission was 1 day (range: 0.5-3 days) and 2 days (range: 0.5-15) for surviving and nonsurviving cattle, respectively. All 5 cows that suffered pharyngeal trauma associated with administration of calcium salt bolus were euthanized. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: Pharyngeal trauma is a rare condition in cattle. Case fatality rate increases if not diagnosed and treated promptly. The nature of the penetrating foreign body influences the outcome.

Radioluminescent nanoparticles for radiation-controlled release of drugs.

The present work demonstrates a novel concept for intratumoral chemo-radio combination therapy for locally advanced solid tumors. For some locally advanced tumors, chemoradiation is currently standard of care. This combination treatment can cause acute and long term toxicity that can limit its use in older patients or those with multiple medical comorbidities. Intratumoral chemotherapy has the potential to address the problem of systemic toxicity that conventional chemotherapy suffers, and may, in our view, be a better strategy for treating certain locally advanced tumors. The present study proposes how intratumoral chemoradiation can be best implemented. The enabling concept is the use of a new chemotherapeutic formulation in which chemotherapy drugs (e.g., paclitaxel (PTX)) are co-encapsulated with radioluminecsnt nanoparticles (e.g., CaWO4 (CWO) nanoparticles (NPs)) within protective capsules formed by biocompatible/biodegradable polymers (e.g., poly(ethylene glycol)-poly(lactic acid) or PEG-PLA). This drug-loaded polymer-encapsulated radioluminescent nanoparticle system can be locally injected in solution form into the patient's tumor before the patient receives normal radiotherapy (e.g., 30-40 fractions of 2-3 Gy daily X-ray dose delivered over several weeks for locally advanced head and neck tumors). Under X-ray irradiation, the radioluminescent nanoparticles produce UV-A light that has a radio-sensitizing effect. These co-encapsulated radioluminescent nanoparticles also enable radiation-triggered release of chemo drugs from the polymer coating layer. The non-toxic nature (absence of dark toxicity) of this drug-loaded polymer-encapsulated radioluminescent nanoparticle ("PEG-PLA/CWO/PTX") formulation was confirmed by the MTT assay in cancer cell cultures. A clonogenic cell survival assay confirmed that these drug-loaded polymer-encapsulated radioluminescent nanoparticles significantly enhance the cancer cell killing effect of radiation therapy. In vivo study validated the efficacy of PEG-PLA/CWO/PTX-based intratumoral chemo-radio therapy in mouse tumor xenografts (in terms of tumor response and mouse survival). Results of a small-scale NP biodistribution (BD) study demonstrate that PEG-PLA/CWO/PTX NPs remained at the tumor sites for a long period of time (> 1 month) following direct intratumoral administration. A multi-compartmental pharmacokinetic model (with rate constants estimated from in vitro experiments) predicts that this radiation-controlled drug release technology enables significant improvements in the level and duration of drug availability within the tumor (throughout the typical length of radiation treatment, i.e., > 1 month) over conventional delivery systems (e.g., PEG-PLA micelles with no co-encapsulated CaWO4, or an organic liquid, e.g., a 50:50 mixture of Cremophor EL and ethanol, as in Taxol), while it is capable of maintaining the systemic level of the chemo drug far below the toxic threshold limit over the entire treatment period. This technology thus has the potential to offer a new therapeutic option that has not previously been available for patients excluded from conventional chemoradiation protocols.