Mouse Brain Tissue Preparation for Scanning Electron Microscopy.

Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) is used to observe the surface structure of an object by irradiating an electron beam onto the sample and detecting the reflected and emitted electrons. Because of its large depth of focus, SEM can provide the three-dimensional structure of small surfaces that cannot be observed using an optical microscope. Furthermore, the cross-sectional structure of the tissue can be observed by freeze-cracking. Observing the ultrastructure of organisms that contain large amounts of water in their bodies while maintaining high resolution is challenging; however, this has recently become possible. Here, we explain the fixation and freeze-cracking method for mouse brain samples.

Comprehensive characterization of unscientifically disposed municipal solid waste (MSW) in Kashmir Region, India.

Unscientific dumping of municipal solid waste (MSW) is a common practice in Kashmir. To have an environmentally friendly and sustainable waste management system, MSW was collected from nine study locations of this region. They were air-dried, then oven-dried at 105 °C for 24 h, segregated, and characterized for various components. The overall average organic waste was > 55%, plastic waste about 17%, inert material about 10%, paper 9%, and cloth waste 7%. The calorific value of paper and plastic wastes exhibited was 4910 kcal/kg, while organic waste had a calorific value of 1980 kcal/kg. The proximate analysis showed that the moisture content ranged from 16 to 29%, volatile matter ranged from 49 to 72%, ash content ranged from 0.03 to 5%, and fixed carbon ranged from 5 to 20%. In S7, the volatile matter content recorded the lowest value at 49.15%, while in S5, the volatile matter content was notably higher at 71.84%, indicating easier ignition. Further, elemental analysis revealed that the major elements in MSW were carbon and oxygen, 53% and 37%, respectively, with small traces of heavy metals with an average of 0.02% cadmium (Cd) and 0.006% lead (Pb). Moreover, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) micrographs provided confirmation that the majority of components in the MSW exhibited either partial or complete degradation, resulting in a rough surface texture. In addition, the presence of silica and other silicate groups was also detected. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) analysis revealed that the main functional groups were alcohol. In the X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, all the major mineral phases were detected between 20 and 30° 2θ, except for the peaks at 50-60° 2θ in S3 and S9 where catalysts such as zeolite Y and zeolite X were detected. Overall, the MSW had low moisture content but higher calorific value, making it a viable feedstock.

Microstructural studies of imitation cheese with a shift in continuous phase.

When casein is replaced with starch in imitation cheese, the functionality changes. Three different microscopy methods were applied to understand the microstructural differences in the product depending on which component dominates the microstructure. Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy (CLSM) for component identification. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Cryogenic Scanning Electron Microscopy (Cryo-SEM) for studying surface structures. Differences in the surface structures were detected between SEM and Cryo-SEM. In SEM, starch appeared rough and protein smooth, while in Cryo-SEM no starch roughness of the surface was found. A change in starch modification and effects of protein prehydration was also analysed. Adding octenyl succinic anhydride (OSA) modified starch for emulsifying properties resulted in a microstructure with fragmented protein at a protein level of 7 %, but not at 9 or 12 %. Protein prehydration had limited effect on microstructure. On a macrostructural level, the change to an emulsifying starch increased hardness in imitation cheese with 7 and 9 % protein. Protein prehydration slightly decreased the hardness, but the difference was not significant at all concentrations. This research provides valuable information about the microstructure of imitation cheese at a 50/50 composition, how the microstructure changes with an emulsifying starch and what occurs after a protein prehydration was included in the production.

Bioactive and biodegradable cotton fabrics produced via synergic effect of plant extracts and essential oils in chitosan coating system.

Functional antibacterial textile materials are in great demand in the medical sector. In this paper, we propose a facile, eco-friendly approach to the design of antibacterial biodegradable cotton fabrics. Cotton fiber fabrics were enhanced with a chitosan coating loaded with plant extracts and essential oils. We employed Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), UV-Vis spectrophotometry, optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) to characterize the color, structure, and thermal properties of the modified fabrics. The fabrics were found to effectively induce growth inhibition of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, especially when a synergic system of aloe vera extract and cinnamon essential oil was applied in the coating formulation. Additionally, we observed significant color and weight changes after 5, 10, and 20 days in soil biodegradability tests. Given the straightforward modification process and the use of non-toxic natural materials, these innovative bio-based and biodegradable cotton fabrics show great promise as protective antimicrobial textiles for healthcare applications.

Contribution of microscopy to a better understanding of the anatomy of pathogenic protists.

In this Inaugural Article the author briefly revises its scientific career and how he starts to work with parasitic protozoa. Emphasis is given to his contribution to topics such as a) the structural organization of the surface of protozoa using freeze-fracture and deep-etching; b) the cytoskeleton of protozoa, especially structures such as the subpellicular microtubules of trypanosomatids, the conoid of Toxoplasma gondii, microtubules and inner membrane complex of this protozoan, and the costa of Tritrichomonas foetus; c) the flagellulm of trypanosomatids, that in addition to the axoneme contains a complex network of filaments that constitute the paraflagellar rod; d) special organelles such as the acidocalcisome, hydrogenosome, and glycosome; and e) the highly polarized endocytic pathway found in epimastigote forms of Trypanosoma cruzi.

High-resolution 3-D scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images of DOTTM polynucleotides (PN): Unique scaffold characteristics and potential applications in biomedicine.

INTRODUCTION: Polynucleotides (PN) are becoming more prominent in aesthetic medicine. However, the structural characteristics of PN have not been published and PN from different companies may have different structural characteristics. This study aimed to elucidate the structural attributes of DOT™ PN and distinguish differences with polydeoxyribonucleotides (PDRN) using high-resolution scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging. MATERIALS AND METHODS: DOT™ PN was examined using a Quanta 3-D field emission gun (FEG) Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). Sample preparation involved cryogenic cooling, cleavage, etching, and metal coating to facilitate high-resolution imaging. Cryo-FIB/SEM techniques were employed for in-depth structural analysis. RESULTS: PDRN exhibited an amorphous structure without distinct features. In contrast, DOT™ PN displayed well-defined polyhedral shapes with smooth, uniformly thick walls. These cells were empty, with diameters ranging from 3 to 8 micrometers, forming a seamless tessellation pattern. DISCUSSION: DOT™ PN's distinct geometric tessellation design conforms to the principles of biotensegrity, providing both structural reinforcement and integrity. The presence of delicate partitions and vacant compartments hints at possible uses in the field of pharmaceutical delivery systems. Within the realms of beauty enhancement and regenerative medicine, DOT™ PN's capacity to bolster cell growth and tissue mending could potentially transform approaches to rejuvenation treatments. Its adaptability becomes apparent when considering its contributions to drug administration and surgical procedures. CONCLUSION: This study unveils the intricate structural scaffold features of DOT™ PN for the first time, setting it apart from PDRN and inspiring innovation in biomedicine and materials science. DOT™ PN's unique attributes open doors to potential applications across healthcare and beyond.

Influence of pozzolanic addition on strength and microstructure of metakaolin-based concrete.

The intent of this study is to explore the physical properties and long-term performance of concrete made with metakaolin (MK) as a binder, using microsilica (MS) and nanosilica (NS) as substitutes for a portion of the ordinary Portland cement (OPC) content. The dosage of MS was varied from 5% to 15% for OPC-MK-MS blends, and the dosage of NS was varied from 0.5% to 1.5% for OPC-MK-NS blends. Incorporation of these pozzolans accelerated the hardening process and reduced the flowability, consistency, and setting time of the cement paste. In addition, it produced a denser matrix, improving the strength of the concrete matrix, as confirmed by scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction analysis. The use of MS enhanced the strength by 10.37%, and the utilization of NS increased the strength by 11.48% at 28 days. It also reduced the penetrability of the matrix with a maximum reduction in the water absorption (35.82%) and improved the resistance to the sulfate attack for specimens containing 1% NS in the presence of 10% MK. Based on these results, NS in the presence of MK can be used to obtain cementitious structures with the enhanced strength and durability.

Ultramicroscopic organization of the exterior olfactory organ in Anguilla vulgaris in relation to its spawning migration.

Background: Catadromous fishes have well-developed elongated olfactory organs with numerous lamellae and different types of receptor neurons related to their breeding migration. Aim: The current study showed how the olfactory system adapted to the catadromous life. Our work declared the need of the migratory fishes for the sense of smell that is exhibited by a higher number of the olfactory lamellae and the receptor neuron verification in the olfactory epithelium. Methods: Ten specimens of fully grown, but pre-matured, silver eels of Anguilla vulgaris were captured at the outlet of Edco Lake, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, east of Alexandria. Olfactory rosettes were dissected and fixed for scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM). Results: Our study gave a morphological description of the olfactory system of A. vulgaris. At the ultrastructural level using SEM and TEM, one olfactory rosette was provided with 90-100 flat radial olfactory lamellae. The nasal configuration allowed water to enter and exit, transferring odorant molecules to olfactory receptor cells which comprise long cylindrical ciliated and microvillous receptors as well as rod-tipped cells. These cells are bipolar neurons with upward dendritic knobs. The olfactory epithelia also include crypt receptor cells. Interestingly, the olfactory neurons are delimited by nonsensory supporting cells, including long motile kinocilia and sustentacular supporting cells beside mucus secretory goblet cells and ionocytes or labyrinth cells that contribute to the olfaction process. Conclusion: Olfaction is crucial in all vertebrates, including fishes as it involves reproduction, parental, feeding, defensive, schooling, and migration behaviors. Here, A. vulgaris is an excellent model for catadromous fishes. It has a well-developed olfactory organ to cope with the dramatic climate change, habitat loss, water pollution, and altered ocean currents effect during their catadromous life for reproduction.

75 Years Ago: Discovery of Resin Adhesion to Acid-etched Enamel - A Comparison of the 1949 and 1955 Methods.

PURPOSE: This paper describes previously unknown details about the discovery of resin adhesion to acid-etched human enamel. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A literature review was performed through manual assessments. Primary sources revealing the discovery of resin curing on etched enamel were analyzed considering the research objectives and methodological procedure during that era, including the type of teeth used, preparatory measures, acid-etching process, type of resin and its application, and follow-up observations. Additionally, the political and economic contexts were examined. RESULTS: In 1949, acid etching was found to promote adhesion with acrylic resin, a finding described again in 1955. The 1949 studies utilized nitric acid for enamel etching and the acrylate resin Paladon from the Kulzer company (Germany). Conversely, the 1955 investigations employed phosphoric acid and an unnamed acrylate, likely a self-curing resin supported by Kulzer in the late 1930s. Disparities in the 1949 and 1955 findings can be ascribed to varying objectives and test conditions amidst a turbulent political backdrop, significantly impacting the Kulzer company. CONCLUSION: The discovery of resin adhesion to acid-etched enamel, approaching its 75th anniversary in 2024, is a landmark in 20th-century adhesive dentistry. Paladon represents a pioneering compound, exemplifying the influence of political, ideological, and economic factors on scientific advancements during that period.

Morphology and chemical composition of Taiwan oil millet (Eccoilopus formosanus) epicuticular wax.

MAIN CONCLUSION: Taiwan oil millet has two types of epicuticular wax: platelet wax composed primarily of octacosanol and filament wax constituted essentially by the singular compound of octacosanoic acid. Taiwan oil millet (TOM-Eccoilopus formosanus) is an orphan crop cultivated by the Taiwan indigenous people. It has conspicuous white powder covering its leaf sheath indicating abundant epicuticular waxes, that may contribute to its resilience. Here, we characterized the epicuticular wax secretion in TOM leaf blade and leaf sheath using various microscopy techniques, as well as gas chromatography to determine its composition. Two kinds of waxes, platelet and filaments, were secreted in both the leaf blades and sheaths. The platelet wax is secreted ubiquitously by epidermal cells, whereas the filament wax is secreted by a specific cell called epidermal cork cells. The newly developed filament waxes were markedly re-synthesized by the epidermal cork cells through papillae protrusions on the external periclinal cell wall. Ultrastructural images of cork cell revealed the presence of cortical endoplasmic reticulum (ER) tubules along the periphery of plasma membrane (PM) and ER-PM contact sites (EPCS). The predominant wax component was a C28 primary alcohol in leaf blade, and a C28 free fatty acid in the leaf sheath, pseudopetiole and midrib. The wax morphology present in distinct plant organs corresponds to the specific chemical composition: platelet wax composed of alcohols exists mainly in the leaf blade, whereas filament wax constituted mainly by the singular compound C28 free fatty acids is present abundantly in leaf sheath. Our study clarifies the filament wax composition in relation to a previous study in sorghum. Both platelet and filament waxes comprise a protection barrier for TOM.

Freezing-mediated formation of supraproteins using depletion forces.

Hypothesis Long-acting formulations such as microparticles, injectable depots and implantable devices can realize spatiotemporally controlled delivery of protein drugs to extend their therapeutic in vivo half-lives. To efficiently encapsulate the protein drugs into such drug delivery systems, (sub)micron-sized protein particles are needed. The formation of micronized supraproteins can be induced through the synergistic combination of attractive depletion forces and freezing. The size of the supraproteins can be fine-tuned from submicron to several microns by adjusting the ice crystallization rate through the freeze-quench depth, which is set by the target temperature. Methods Supraprotein micron structures were prepared from protein solutions under various conditions in the presence and absence of nonadsorbing polyethylene glycol. Scanning electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering were employed to determine the sizes of the supraproteins and real-time total internal reflection fluorescent microscopy was used to follow the supraprotein formation during freezing. The protein secondary structure was measured before and after micronization by circular dichroism. A phase diagram of a protein-polyethylene glycol mixture was theoretically predicted to investigate whether the depletion interaction can elucidate the phase behavior. Findings Micronized protein supraparticles could be prepared in a controlled manner by rapid freeze-drying of aqueous mixtures of bovine serum albumin, horseradish peroxidase and lysozyme mixed with polyethylene glycol. Upon freezing, the temperature quench initiates a phase separation process which is reminiscent of spinodal decomposition. This demixing is subsequently arrested during droplet phase separation to form protein-rich microstructures. The final size of the generated protein microparticles is determined by a competition between phase separation and cooling rate, which can be controlled by target temperature. The experimental phase diagram of the aqueous protein-polyethylene glycol dispersion aligns with predictions from depletion theory for charged colloids and nonadsorbing polymers.

Back to the water: Tongue morphology associated to contrasting lifestyles in two Andean frogs of the genus Telmatobius.

The evolution of the tongue in tetrapods is associated with feeding in the terrestrial environment. This study analyzes the tongue morphology of two closely related frog species, Telmatobius oxycephalus and T. rubigo, which exhibit contrasting feeding mechanisms. Telmatobius oxycephalus, a semi-aquatic species, relies on its tongue to capture terrestrial prey whereas T. rubigo, a secondarily aquatic species, uses suction feeding not involving the tongue. Through anatomical, histological and scanning electron microscopy analyses, we revealed remarkable differences in tongue morphology between these species. Telmatobius oxycephalus exhibits a well-developed tongue whose dorsal epithelium has numerous and slender filiform papillae. The epithelial cells of the papillae are protruded and have a complex array of microridges. In contrast, T. rubigo possesses a reduced tongue with flat and less numerous filiform papillae. The epithelial cells are completely flat and lack microridges. These findings highlight the remarkable adaptability of lingual morphology in Telmatobius to respond to the contrasting ecological niches and prey capture mechanisms. This study sheds light on the relationship between tongue shape and the different functional demands, contributing to our understanding of the evolution of prey capture mechanisms in amphibians.

Gross Taper Failure and Fracture of the True Neck in Total Hip Arthroplasty: Retrieval Scanning Electron Microscope Analysis.

Background and objectives: wear and corrosion can lead to the gross failure of the Morse taper junction with the consequent fracture of the true neck of the prosthetic stem in hip arthroplasty. Materials and Methods: 58-year-old male patient, with a BMI of 38 kg/m2. Because of avascular necrosis, in 2007, a metal-on-metal total hip arthroplasty was implanted in him, with a TMZF stem and a Co-Cr head. In December 2020, he complained of acute left hip pain associated with the deterioration of his left leg and total functional impairment, preceded by the crunching of the hip. X-rays and CT scan showed a fracture of the prosthetic neck that necessitated prosthetic revision surgery. A Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) analysis of the retrieved prosthetic components was conducted. Results: Macroscopically, the trunnion showed a typical bird beak appearance, due to a massive material loss of about half of its volume. The gross material loss apparently due to abrasion extended beyond the trunnion to the point of failure on the true neck about half a centimeter distal from the taper. SEM analysis demonstrated fatigue rupture modes, and the crack began close to the neck's surface. On the lateral surface, several scratches were found, suggesting an intense wear that could be due to abrasion. Conclusions: The analysis we conducted on the explanted THA showed a ductile rupture, began close to the upper surface of the prosthetic neck where the presence of many scratches had concentrated stresses and led to a fatigue fracture.

Revision of the Mexican ladybird genus Vedalia Mulsant (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae).

The ladybird genus Vedalia was established by Mulsant in 1850 to accommodate a single species Vedalia sieboldii Mulsant. Since its description the genus attracted little attention, and its systematic position in modern classification of the subfamily Coccinellinae remained unclear. Here we provide revisionary study based on the type and non-type material from various collections. Male and female genitalia are illustrated for the first time, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) illustrations of the key characters are also provided. Position of the genus within the tribe Chnoodini Mulsant is confirmed. Distribution and biology of Vedalia are also discussed.

The first record of the giant pill-millipede genus Prionobelum Verhoeff, 1924 from Thailand, with the integrative description of two species (Diplopoda, Sphaerotheriida, Zephroniidae).

Thailand hosts a very rich but underexplored giant pill-millipede (Sphaerotheriida) fauna, with 11 of its 13 species described in the last three years. Currently, all known Thai giant pill-millipedes belong to the genera Zephronia Gray, 1832 (nine species) and Sphaerobelum Verhoeff, 1924 (four species). Here we describe the first two species of the genus Prionobelum Verhoeff, 1924 (previously restricted to Vietnam and China), Prionobelum inthanonense n. sp. and P. naevium n. sp. from Thailand. The species occur at Thailands highest mountain (2500 m) Doi Inthanon and the lowland rainforests at Bang Lang National Park touching the border with Malaysia. Both species are described integratively, utilizing light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy as well as DNA barcoding. Both new species of Prionobelum differ from other Zephroniidae species, as well as from one another, by more than 20% p-distance in the COI barcoding gene suggesting that potential closer related species are still awaiting discovery.

Setal morphology of oral apparatus of Aegla longirostri Bond-Buckup & Buckup, 1994 (Decapoda: Aeglidae).

The seta, a type of projection of the cuticle in crustaceans, has essential mechanical and sensory functions. Due to the diversity of their morphology and distribution patterns on the articles of different appendages, setae can be helpful as taxonomic characters. To assist future studies on the potential use of setae as a diagnostic character in aeglids, we used scanning electron microscopy to analyze the morphology of setae from the oral apparatus of Aegla longirostri Bond-Buckup & Buckup, 1994, and compared our data to the literature. We identified nine setal types (simple, serrate, stout serrate, sword, plumose, pappose, comb, serrulate, and cuspidate), of which the last two had not been previously described in adult aeglids. Our results are a first step towards future comparisons of setal morphology in the genus Aegla, which includes cryptic species complexes, to ascertain the usefulness of setae as a character to aid in the description of species of this group, which has a conserved general morphology.

Nanotopography and oral bacterial adhesion on titanium surfaces: in vitro and in vivo studies.

The present study aimed to evaluate the influence of titanium surface nanotopography on the initial bacterial adhesion process by in vivo and in vitro study models. Titanium disks were produced and characterized according to their surface topography: machined (Ti-M), microtopography (Ti-Micro), and nanotopography (Ti-Nano). For the in vivo study, 18 subjects wore oral acrylic splints containing 2 disks from each group for 24 h (n = 36). After this period, the disks were removed from the splints and evaluated by microbial culture method, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and qPCR for quantification of Streptococcus oralis, Actinomyces naeslundii, Fusobacterium nucleatum, as well as total bacteria. For the in vitro study, adhesion tests were performed with the species S. oralis and A. naeslundii for 24 h. Data were compared by ANOVA, with Tukey's post-test. Regarding the in vivo study, both the total aerobic and total anaerobic bacteria counts were similar among groups (p > 0.05). In qPCR, there was no difference among groups of bacteria adhered to the disks (p > 0.05), except for A. naeslundii, which was found in lower proportions in the Ti-Nano group (p < 0.05). In the SEM analysis, the groups had a similar bacterial distribution, with a predominance of cocci and few bacilli. In the in vitro study, there was no difference in the adhesion profile for S. oralis and A. naeslundii after 24 h of biofilm formation (p > 0.05). Thus, we conclude that micro- and nanotopography do not affect bacterial adhesion, considering an initial period of biofilm formation.

Ho3+ -doped BaGd2 ZnO5 green-emitting phosphor for solid-state lighting: synthesis, characterization, and photoluminescence properties.

In this work, we present the synthesis of a green-emitting series of BaGd2 ZnO5 :xHo3+ (0.5-3 mol%) phosphors using a high-temperature solid-state reaction method. Phase purity and crystal structure information were evaluated through X-ray powder diffraction patterns. Optical properties were examined through diffuse reflectance spectra, revealing that the prepared phosphor exhibited a band gap of 4.65 eV. The effect of Ho3+ doping on the morphology and ion distribution on the surface was assessed using scanning electron microscopy and time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry techniques, respectively. The excitation spectra of the synthesized phosphor exhibited a charge transfer band and strong absorption transitions. The emission spectra displayed typical holmium emission characteristics, featuring a strong green emission band associated with f-f transitions from 5 F4 + 2 S2 → 5 I8 . Decay dynamics of the synthesized phosphor exhibited a single-exponential decay pattern, with lifetimes ranging from 0.103 to 0.053 ms. The intrinsic radiative lifetime, calculated through Auzel's fitting was determined to be 0.14 ms. Using the emission spectra, colorimetric behaviour was analyzed, revealing that the Commission Internationale de l'éclairage (CIE) coordinates exclusively lay within the green region at (0.285, 0.705), with an impressive colour purity of 99.6%. Given these marked properties, the synthesized phosphor exhibits great potential for a wide range of green-emitting applications, including displays, white light-emitting diodes, and security signage.

Effects of Nd:YAG laser irradiation at different energy densities on dentin bond durability under simulated pulpal pressure.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effects of Nd:YAG laser irradiation on the microstructures of dentin surfaces and the long-term bond strength of dentin under simulated pulpal pressure. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Under simulated pulp pressure, 30 freshly extracted caries-free third molars were cut into 2-mm-thick dentin samples and then divided into five groups: the control and laser groups (93.3 J/cm2; 124.4 J/cm2; 155.5 J/cm2; 186.6 J/cm2). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), and Vickers hardness were used to analyze the surface morphology, composition, and mechanical properties of the dentin before and after laser irradiation. Another 80 caries-free third molars were removed and treated as described above, and the resin was bonded to the dentin surface with Single Bond Universal (SBU) adhesive in self-etch mode to make stick specimens. Microtensile bond strength (µTBS), confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM), and interfacial silver nanoleakage tests before and after 10,000 times thermocycling were then performed to analyze the bonding properties and interfacial durability of each group. RESULTS: SEM observations revealed that the surfaces of all laser group specimens were rough with open dentin tubules. Laser irradiation altered the surface composition of dentin while removing some collagen fibers but did not affect its surface hardness or crystallographic characteristics. Furthermore, laser irradiation with an energy density of 124.4 J/cm2 significantly promoted the immediate and aging bond strengths and reduced nanoleakage compared to those of the control group. CONCLUSIONS: Under simulated pulp pressure, Nd:YAG laser pretreatment altered the chemical composition of dentin and improved the immediate and long-term bond strength. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This study investigated the optimal parameters for Nd:YAG laser pretreatment of dentin, which has potential as a clinical method to strengthen bonding.

Assessment of the Smear Layer Removal Efficacy of Three Different Agents on Periodontally Compromised Tooth: An In Vitro Study.

AIM: The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the smear layer removal efficacy of three various agents on periodontally compromised tooth. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The current study included 75 molar teeth that were extracted due to periodontal disease. After that, 25 samples were randomly assigned using a simple random technique to the three different agent groups, group A: Scaling and root planing (SRP) and application of SofScale agent, group B: SRP and application of QMix agent, group C: SRP and application of MTAD agent. Using a diamond circular saw, the treated portions were divided into horizontal and vertical halves. All samples were viewed under Scanning Electron Microscope. Every tooth was focused at the coronal third, middle third, and apical third portion with a magnification of 1000×. Data were recorded and statistically analyzed. RESULTS: The smear layer removal efficacy was more in the QMix agent (3.06 ± 0.04) group followed by MTAD agent (3.28 ± 0.09) and SofScale agent (4.14 ± 0.10) group on the root surface. On intra group comparison, there was a statistically significant difference found in all the intra group agents with all the three levels. On inter group evaluation, at coronal third, there was no significant difference found between the different agents. There was a significant difference found between the different agents at middle and coronal third. CONCLUSION: On conclusion, the current investigation found that, the root surfaces treated with QMix shown a greater ability to remove smear layers compared to tooth surfaces treated with MTAD and SofScale agent. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Conventional therapies such as SRP effectively eliminate calculus, plaque, and necrosed cementum; nevertheless, they leave behind a smear layer that could impede normal healing. In an effort to overcome this, root conditioning agents were applied on the root surface to remove the smear layer. The traditional root conditioning agents such as citric acid have certain disadvantages, though, such as an acidic pH that could harm the root surface. As a result, researchers have been looking for biocompatible root conditioning treatments that are more effective. How to cite this article: Singh DK, BS Raj H, Soans CR, et al. Assessment of the Smear Layer Removal Efficacy of Three Different Agents on Periodontally Compromised Tooth: An In Vitro Study. J Contemp Dent Pract 2024;25(2):156-159.