An epidemiological survey of obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome among edentulous population based on modified Berlin questionnaire.

PURPOSE: This study aims to investigate the percentage of people in high risk of obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) in edentulous population using the modified Berlin questionnaire (MBQ), to identify sex difference in percentage of edentulous people at high risk of OSAHS, and to analyze the occurrence rate of OSAHS-related symptoms that were not included in the MBQ in this group of people. METHODS: Five hundred and forty patients (edentulous in mandible or maxilla or both) were recruited to participate in this study. Demographic information, nocturnal denture wearing habit, and sleeping posture were recorded. Meanwhile, subjects completed the MBQ in which participants' snoring behavior, wake-time sleepiness or fatigue, and the presence of obesity or hypertension were investigated. RESULTS: Four hundred qualified questionnaires were obtained. According to the MBQ, about 31 % of the subjects were classified at high risk of OSAHS. No significant difference in the percentage of people at high risk of OSAHS was found between male and female groups. Dry or sore mouth and throat, polyuria during sleep, and difficult to fall asleep/easy to wake up showed high occurrence rate equal to or higher than 60 % in the high-risk group. CONCLUSIONS: According to the MBQ, about 31 % of the edentulous population was identified as high risk of OSAHS. Equal attention should be given to elderly edentulous female and male since they are at the same level of risk of developing OSAHS.

Linguistic expressions of negative stances: A conversation analysis of turn-medial particle dai in Jishou dialect (Hunan Province, China).

The study focuses on the syntactic functions and prosodic features of the turn-media particle dai in Jishou dialect, Hunan Province, China, as well as its distributions and interactional functions across eight different contexts. The research utilizing a corpus of 70 h consisting of 300,000 characters of the Jishou dialect, employed the conversation analysis (CA) method to analyze the interactional behaviors of dai. The results show that dai serves as an overt marker of speakers' negative stances, including complaining and criticizing. It is treated as an emerging product continuously shaped by diverse factors, such as context, sequential positioning, prosodic manifestation in talk-in-interaction, and its influence on the subsequent development of the conversation.

Craniomaxillofacial derived bone marrow mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (BMSCs) for craniomaxillofacial bone tissue engineering: A literature review.

Craniomaxillofacial bone defects seriously affect the appearance, function, and psychological status of patients. Traditional autologous bone grafting is very challenging due to the limited sources of bone tissue, excessive surgical trauma, and high incidence of related complications. Craniomaxillofacial bone tissue engineering (BTE) strategies based on bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) are emerging as an alternative. Craniomaxillofacial BMSCs (C-BMSCs) are homologous to craniomaxillofacial bones, which develop from the mesoderm and neural crest. This article aims to compare the differences in osteogenesis, angiogenesis, and immune regulation of C-BMSCs and other sources of BMSCs, and propose ideas and strategies such as 3D printing and mechanotherapy to completely harness the characteristics of C-BMSCs. In conclusion, C-BSMCs are a promising source of stem cells for the repair and reconstruction of craniomaxillofacial bone defects, and more attention should be paid to accelerating their basic research and clinical practices.

A nucleic acid detection assay combining reverse transcription recombinase-aided amplification with a lateral flow dipstick for the rapid visual detection of porcine deltacoronavirus.

Porcine deltacoronavirus (PDCoV) is an emerging enteropathogen causing severe diarrhoea, dehydration, and death in nursing piglets and enormous economic losses for the global swine industry. Furthermore, it can infect multiple animal species including humans. Therefore, a rapid, definitive diagnostic assay is required for the effective control of this zoonotic pathogen. To identify PDCoV, we developed a nucleic acid detection assay combining reverse transcription recombinase-aided amplification (RT-RAA) with a lateral flow dipstick (LFD) targeting the highly conserved genomic region in the ORF1b gene. The RT-RAA-LFD assay exhibited good PDCoV detection reproducibility and repeatability and could be completed within 11 min. Ten minutes at 40 °C was required for nucleic acid amplification and 1 min at room temperature was needed for the visual LFD readout. The assay specifically detected PDCoV and did not cross-react with any other major swine pathogens. The 95% limit of detection (LOD) was 3.97 median tissue culture infectious dose PDCoV RNA per reaction. This performance was comparable to that of a reference TaqMan-based real-time RT-PCR (trRT-PCR) assay for PDCoV. Of 149 swine small intestine, rectal swab, and serum samples, 71 and 75 tested positive for PDCoV according to RT-RAA-LFD and trRT-PCR, respectively. The diagnostic coincidence rate for both assays was 97.32% (145/149) and the kappa value was 0.946 (p < 0.001). Overall, the RT-RAA-LFD assay is a user-friendly diagnostic tool that can rapidly and visually detect PDCoV.

Icariside II induces rapid phosphorylation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase via multiple signaling pathways.

Icariside II, as a favonoid compound derived from epimedium, has been proved to involed in a variety of biological and pharmacological effects such as anti-inflammatory, anti-osteoporosis, anti-oxidation, anti-aging, and anti-cancer but its mechanism is unclear, especially in terms of its effect on post-transcriptional modification of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS). Phosphorylation of eNOS plays an important role in the synthesis of nitric oxide in endothelial cells, which is closely related to erectile dysfunction, atherosclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, and other diseases. Our study aims to investigate the effect and mechanism of Icariside II on the rapid phosphorylation of eNOS. In this study, human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were stimulated with Icariside II in the presence or absence of multiple inhibitors (1 µM), including LY294002 (PI3K-inhibitor), MK-2206 (AKT-inhibitor), Bisindolylmaleimide X (AMPK-inhibitor), H-89 (CaMKII-inhibitor), KN-62 (PKA-inhibitor), Dorsomorphin (PKC-inhibitor). The proliferation of HUVECs was assessed using cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8). The release of nitric oxide (NO) within HUVECs was detected via fluorescence probe (DAF-FM). Western blot was used to examine the effect of Icariside II on the expression of eNOS, phosphorylation of eNOS, and common signaling pathways proteins. In this study, Icariside II was found to promote the cell proliferation and rapid NO release in HUVECs. The phosphorylation of eNOS-Ser1177 was significantly increased after Icariside II stimulation and reached a peak at 10 min (p < 0.05). Meanwhile, the phosphorylation of eNOS-Thr495 was significantly decreased after 45 min of stimulation (p < 0.05). Following the intervention with multiple inhibitors, it was found that MK-2206 (AKT inhibitor), LY294002 (PI3K inhibitor), KN-62 (AMPK inhibitor), and Bisindolylmaleimide X (PKC inhibitor) could significantly inhibit the phosphorylation of eNOS-Ser1177 caused by Icariside II (p < 0.05), while MK-2206, LY294002, and Bisindolylmaleimide X reversed the alleviated phosphorylation of eNOS-Thr495. We concluded that Icariside can regulate rapid phosphorylation of eNOS- Ser1177 and eNOS-Thr495 via multiple signaling pathways, resulting in the up-regulation of eNOS and the increased release of NO.

Proteomic analysis and miRNA profiling of human testicular endothelial cell-derived exosomes: the potential effects on spermatogenesis.

Testicular endothelial cells have been found to play an important role in spermatogenesis and fertility, but their mechanism is obscure. Exosomes released by various cells are recognized as cell-cell communication mediators during the initiation and progression of many diseases. Therefore, the current study aimed to investigate the protein and miRNA components of human testicular endothelial cell-derived exosomes (HTEC-Exos) and to explore their potential effects on spermatogenesis. In this study, HTEC-Exos were first isolated by the ultracentrifugation method, and then identified by nanoparticle tracking analysis, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and western blotting. The characteristics of HTEC-Exos were examined by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry and microRNA (miRNA) chip analysis. Bioinformatics analysis was performed to explore the potential role of the exosomal content on spermatogenesis. A total of 945 proteins were identified, 11 of which were closely related to spermatogenesis. A total of 2578 miRNAs were identified. Among them, 30 miRNAs demonstrated potential associations with male reproductive disorders, such as azoospermia, and spermatogenesis disorders. In particular, 11 out of these 30 miRNAs have been proven to be involved in spermatogenesis based on available evidence. This study provides a global view of the proteins and miRNAs from HTEC-Exos, suggesting that HTEC-Exos may function as potential effectors during the process of spermatogenesis.

Influence of marginal bone resorption on two mini implant-retained mandibular overdenture: An in vitro study.

PURPOSE: To investigate the biomechanical effect of marginal bone resorption (MBR) on the mandibular mini implant (MI)-retained overdenture (MI-OD) on the edentulous model. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The experimental mandibular edentulous model was modified from a commercial model with 2 mm thick artificial soft tissue under denture base. Two MIs (Φ2.6 mm × 10 mm) were bilaterally placed between the lateral incisor and the canine area and attached with magnetic attachments. Three groups were set up as follows: 1) alveolar bone around the MI without MBR (normal group), 2) with MBR to 1/2 the length of the implant (resorption group), and 3) complete denture (CD) without MI (CD group). Strain around the MI, pressure near the first molar area, and displacement of denture were simultaneously measured, loading up to 50 N under bilateral/unilateral loading. Statistical analysis was performed using independent-samples t test and one-way ANOVA (α=.05). RESULTS: The strain around the MI with MBR was approximately 1.5 times higher than that without MBR. The pressure in CD was higher than in MI-ODs (P <.05), while there was no statistical difference between the normal and resorption group (P >.05). Similarly, the CD demonstrated a greater displacement of the denture base than did the MI-ODs during bilateral and unilateral loadings (P <.05). CONCLUSION: The strain around the MI with MBR was approximately 1.5 times higher than that without MBR. The pressure on posterior alveolar ridge and denture displacement of MI-ODs significantly decreased compared to CDs, even when MBR occurs. Bilateral balanced occlusion was recommended for MI-ODs, especially when MBR occurred.

RNA-seq reveals correlations between cytoskeleton-related genes and the osteogenic activity of mesenchymal stem cells on strontium loaded titania nanotube arrays.

Strontium loaded titania nanotube arrays (NTSr), as well as titania nanotube arrays (NT), have been regarded as effective coatings to promote bone regeneration on titanium implants, but an understanding of the full extent of early processes affected by such surface modifications is absent. To address this limitation, we performed RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) of Sprague-Dawley rat bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (rBMMSCs) cultured on unmodified titanium sheets (Con), NT and NTSr specimens. By pairwise comparisons we found that NT and NTSr shared a majority of differentially expressed genes. The Gene Ontology (GO) analysis revealed that NT and NTSr up-regulated a bunch of genes that are annotated to the cytoskeleton. The results were supported by immunofluorescent, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and western blotting assays. By inhibiting the cytoskeleton through pharmacological agents, the activities of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) on NT and NTSr were also suppressed. Informed by these results, we concluded that NT and NTSr specimens reorganized the cytoskeleton of cultured cells that may play a crucial role in osteogenic lineage commitment.

Effect of Nerve Growth Factor on Osseointegration of Titanium Implants in Type 2 Diabetic Rats.

PURPOSE: Compared with the general population, a poorer quality of bone-implant osseointegration occurs and at a higher failure rate in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of local injection of nerve growth factor at the bone-implant interface after implantation in type 2 diabetic rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Goto-Kakizaki (GK) rats (n = 30) were used as a model of type 2 diabetes mellitus, and Wistar rats were used as a control (n = 15). GK rats were assigned randomly into two groups (n = 15/group): the diabetes mellitus group (saline only) and the nerve growth factor group (received nerve growth factor treatment). One titanium implant was placed in each rat's left tibia. Immediately postoperatively, nerve growth factor group rats were injected with nerve growth factor (0.4 µg/day) intramuscularly around the implant, daily for 7 days. Diabetes mellitus and control group rats received normal saline in an identical manner. Rats were sacrificed at 2, 4, and 8 weeks following implant surgery. RESULTS: Traditional light and confocal laser scanning microscopy were used on nondecalcified sections to investigate fluorochrome labeling changes and histologic features of bone adjoining the implants. Bone-to-implant contact and bone volume percentage in the diabetes mellitus group were significantly less than in the control and nerve growth factor groups, with no statistically significant differences between the control and nerve growth factor groups. Confocal laser scanning microscopy showed a significant increase in marked bone around the nerve growth factor group implant at 4 weeks (P < .01) and 8 weeks (P < .05) compared with the diabetes mellitus group. CONCLUSION: This study showed that local injection of nerve growth factor could improve implant-bone osseointegration in diabetic rats and may have important clinical implications.

[Effect of nerve growth factor on the early phase of osseointegration around oral implants].

OBJECTIVE: To observe the early bone integration of oral implants after injection of exogenous nerve growth factor (NGF) and investigate the effects of NGF on peri-implant osseointegration. METHODS: Twelve New Zealand white rabbits were used in this study to establish bi-mandible implant model. Then local injection of 1 µg NGF was given on the right side of the mandible as experimental group and normal saline only was injected on the left side as control group once a day for seven days. The rabbits were respectively sacrificed at 2, 4 and 8 weeks after surgery. The implant-bone grinding samples were prepared and stained by toluidine blue for general observation, X-ray, histology and bone histomorphometry analysis. RESULTS: The density of the new bone around implants at 2 and 4 weeks was lower than normal bone. Compared with the control group, the quantity of new bone and bone-implant contact ratio significantly increased in the experimental group. At 8 weeks, the new bone density in both groups was similar to the normal bone. In the experimental group, the haversian system was observed. Bone contact ratio was significantly different between experimental and control group at 2 and 4 weeks, but similar at 8 weeks.[control group at 2 weeks (26.67 ± 3.88)%, 4 weeks (52.59 ± 5.07)% and 8 weeks (97.33 ± 6.75)%, experimental group at 2 weeks (42.24 ± 6.67)%, 4 weeks (72.25 ± 6.30)% and 8 weeks (99.15 ± 4.68)%]. CONCLUSIONS: Applying exogenous NGF in the early phase could accelerate the formation and maturation of trabecular bone around the implants and shorten the period of osseointegration. Nerve growth factor could promote osseointegration in the early stage of oral implantation.

In vitro wear resistance of three types of composite resin denture teeth.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: The wear resistance of artificial teeth is important to the life of the removable prosthesis for the edentulous patient. The ability of artificial teeth to maintain a stable occlusal relationship over time may be influenced by this property. PURPOSE: The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the wear resistance of artificial teeth based on composite resin filler content when opposed by a denture tooth antagonist. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The right first molars (both maxillary and mandibular) of 3 composite resin denture teeth (Endura, 47% organic filler; Duradent, 42% organic and inorganic filler; and Duracross, 68% organic filler) were secured in an in vitro 2-body wear-testing apparatus that simulated masticatory function (60 strokes/min, grinding distance of 2 mm, under 37 degrees C flowing water). Wear resistance was assessed as volume loss (mm3) and height loss (mm) at 5 kgf (grinding force) after 50,000 strokes (6 pairs for each type). The Vickers microhardness (VHN) of the occlusal surfaces was measured with a load of 50 g and a loading time of 30 seconds. After testing, the worn surfaces were observed with a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Mean values were analyzed using a 1-way analysis of variance followed by the Fisher test (alpha=.05). RESULTS: The volume loss of Duradent teeth (0.87 +/- 0.03 mm3) was significantly higher than of the 2 other types of teeth tested (P<.001). The Duracross teeth (0.22 +/- 0.08 mm3 and 0.11 +/- 0.04 mm) exhibited the best wear resistance of the denture teeth tested. The wear resistance of the materials tested was consistent with their hardness (Endura 27.54 +/- 0.67 VHN, Duradent 24.00 +/- 0.60 VHN, Duracross 39.64 +/- 3.11 VHN). SEM observation showed that many filler particles were missing from the matrix of Duradent. CONCLUSION: The wear resistance among the 3 types of teeth was significantly different; Duracross and Endura were more wear resistant than Duradent. Although the densities as reported by the manufacturer were similar, hardness and microstructure were the primary factors affecting the wear resistance of artificial teeth. Hardness appears to correlate with wear resistance since the wear resistance of Duradent with a lower VHN of 24 was greater than the other 2 types of teeth with greater hardness.

[A pilot study on jaw relation of edentulous patients with digital cephalometric system].

OBJECTIVE: To study the edentulous patients facio-maxillary characters, and discuss the base of recording jaw relation by swallowing action. METHODS: Forty-three edentulous patients were included in this study, age ranged from 57 to 70 yr, with new comfortable full dentures. Two lateral cephalograms for one patient were taken by SIRONA digital X-ray dental system, one of which was centric occlusion with full denture, another was the end position of swallowing action without denture. RESULTS: The vertical facial dimensions of male were a little more than that of female. The ratio of lower front facial height/upper front facial height was about 6/5, angle S-N-Po was about 78 approximately 80 degrees. These data may be useful for dentists to make diagnoses if the jaw relation is right or not. Both in vertical or anterior-posterior (horizontal) dimension, the differences between two groups (two actions in one patient) were not significant. It showed that two positions of two actions were the same. CONCLUSIONS: The SIRONA digital X-ray dental system for cephalometry was swift, and had its own characters. The way of swallowing and occluding is one of efficient methods to record the jaw relation of edentulous patients veraciously and naturally.