Effects of Dental Bleaching Agents on the Surface Roughness of Dental Restoration Materials.

Background and Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the surface roughness evolution of several finished and polished composites when bleaching materials are applied. The research was conducted on four microhybrid or nanofilled composites that are used in dental restorations. Materials and Methods: For each composite type, 5 samples were selected for control, 5 samples were subjected to the bleaching protocol "office bleach" with 40% hydrogen peroxide, and 5 other samples were subjected to the "home bleach" protocol with 16% carbamide peroxide, resulting in a total number of 60 samples. The surfaces of all the samples were tested for roughness, and the values of the most relevant parameter (Ra), were collected. Comparisons between composites and samples were performed using one-way ANOVA (in Statistical Package for Social Sciences). Results: After the bleaching protocol with 40% hydrogen peroxide gel, it was found that the roughness of the group increased considerably compared to the control group, so the highest roughness was found at GC Gradia direct anterior group, and the lowest value was registered for the 3M ESPE Valux Plus group. Following the bleaching protocol with 16% carbamide peroxide (home bleach), it was noted that the sample surfaces were not as affected. In this case, the lowest roughness was found at 3M ESPE Valux Plus group, and the highest roughness was registered for the GC G-aenial anterior group. Following the interpretation of the results, all four types of dental composites tested showed significant surface roughness differences between the groups subjected to bleaching protocols and those kept as control (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The surfaces of the samples were affected by the bleaching protocols by increasing the roughness compared to the control samples.

Acute Type A Aortic Dissection and Coarctation: Single-Stage Repair Using a Clamshell Incision and a Systematic Literature Review.

BACKGROUND: Aortic coarctation (CoAo) may be discovered only when complicated by acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD). We present a case with a one-stage repair of this pathologic association and review the relevant literature focusing on the surgical choices. CASE REPORT: A 43-year-old man presented with acute thoracic pain. Computed tomography and echocardiography demonstrated CoAo, ATAAD type II, an ascending aorta aneurysm, and moderate regurgitation of a bicuspid aortic valve. Emergency surgery was performed. A clamshell incision, cardiopulmonary bypass with dual arterial cannulation (axillo-femoral), CoAo repair (by resection-interposition), and supracoronary aorta replacement were performed. Four years later, the patient was healthy and asymptomatic. REVIEW: Thirty surgical cases of ATAAD with CoAo repair after the dissection onset were included. Iatrogenic dissections and formerly repaired CoAo without surgical indication were excluded. RESULTS: The mean patient age was 27.8 ± 12 years; there was a male predominance (76.7%). The patients frequently presented with ascending aorta aneurysm (86.2%), bicuspid aortic valve (69%), and type II dissection (79.3%); dissection never extended below the CoAo. The one-stage treatment (15 patients; 55.5%) included 12 surgical repairs of CoAo (mostly by ascending-to-descending aorta extra-anatomic bypass; 58.3%) and three balloon angioplasties. In patients with uncorrected CoAo at the onset of cardiopulmonary bypass, double arterial perfusion was used in 55.5%. CONCLUSIONS: One-stage repair (hybrid or surgical), double arterial perfusion, and extra-anatomic ascending-to-descending aorta bypass are the most common options for treating ATAAD-CoAo. The clamshell incision provides excellent access for an extended arch procedure and facilitates anatomic isthmus repair.

Examination of Gender Differences in Depression, Relationship Satisfaction, and Problematic Pornography Use Among Romanian Gay Men and Lesbian Women.

This study investigates factors influencing the psychological well-being of gay and lesbian individuals in Romania. Participants (N = 172) included 61.6% gay and 38.4% lesbians, currently in relationships, aged between 18 and 62 years (M = 28.28; SD = 9.53). Surveys assessed relationship satisfaction, depression, and problematic pornography use. Significant associations were found among these variables, with gender differences observed. We tested a regression model for problematic pornography use, where depression provided additional explanatory power to the initial model. Age, gender, and depression accounted for 18% of the variance in problematic pornography use. The theoretical and practical implications are discussed.

Orthodontic System Modeled and Simulated with the Lingual Technique to Assess Tooth Forces.

CBCT (cone beam computed tomography) is an imaging investigation that provides three-dimensional (3D) images of craniofacial structures. The purpose of this study is to determine the mechanical behavior of an orthodontic system where the lingual treatment technique was used in a 25-year-old female patient from whom a set of CBCT scans was used. CBCT images were processed through software programs such as Invesalius, Geomagic, and Solid Works, to create models containing virtual solids. These models were then imported into Ansys Workbench 2019 R3 (a finite element method software program) for successive simulations to generate displacement maps, deformations, stress distributions, and diagrams. We observed that in the lingual technique, the lowest force occurring on the maxillary teeth is at 1.1, while the highest force appears at 2.3. In the mandible, the lowest force occurs at 4.6, and the highest force at 3.1. The values of the forces and the results of the finite element method can represent a basis for the innovation of new orthodontic springs and also of bracket elements. Thus, by using new technologies, orthodontic practice can be significantly improved for the benefit of patients. Other virtual methods and techniques can be used in future studies, including the application of virtual reality for orthodontic diagnosis.

A Finite Element Method Study on a Simulation of the Thermal Behaviour of Four Methods for the Restoration of Class II Cavities.

The possibility of dental pulp damage during dental procedures is well known. According to studies, during finishing and polishing without cooling, temperatures of up to 140 °C or more can be generated. There are many studies that have analysed the influence of the finishing and polishing of fillings on the mechanical parameters, but the analysis of thermal parameters has led to uncertain results due to the difficulty of performing this in vivo. Background: We set out to conduct a study, using the finite element method, to determine the extent to which the type of class II cavity and the volume of the composite filling influence the duration of heat transfer to the pulp during finishing and polishing without cooling. Materials and Methods: A virtual model of an upper primary molar was used, with a caries process located on the distal aspect, in which four types of cavities were digitally prepared: direct access, horizontal slot, vertical slot and occlusal-proximal. All four cavity types were filled using a Filtek Supreme XT nanocomposite. Results: The study showed that the filling volume almost inversely proportionally influences the time at which the dental pulp reaches the critical temperature of irreversible damage. The lowest duration occurred in occlusal-distal restorations and the highest in direct access restorations. Conclusions: based on the results of the study, a working protocol can be issued so that finishing and polishing restorations without cooling are safe for pulpal health.

A Comprehensive Look at the Development of Asthma in Children.

Asthma, a prevalent chronic respiratory condition affecting millions of children globally, presents a significant health challenge. This review critically examines the developmental pathways of asthma in children, focusing on genetic, environmental, and early-life determinants. Specifically, we explore the impact of prenatal and postnatal factors such as maternal smoking, nutrition, respiratory infections, and allergen exposure on asthma development. Our analysis highlights the intricate interplay of these influences and their contribution to childhood asthma. Moreover, we emphasize targeted strategies and interventions to mitigate its burden, including genetic counseling for at-risk families, environmental modifications to reduce triggers, and early-life immunomodulation. By delving into these preventive measures and interventions, our review aims to provide actionable insights for healthcare professionals in developing tailored strategies to address the complexities of childhood asthma. In summary, this article offers a detailed examination of asthma development in children, aiming to enhance understanding and inform efforts to reduce its burden through targeted interventions.

Study on the Restoration of Class II Carious Cavities by Virtual Methods: Simulation of Mechanical Behavior.

The restoration of class II cavities is predominantly carried out with composite materials. Due to the high failure rate in restoring this type of cavity, composite materials with much-improved properties and new application techniques have been promoted. The study aimed to analyze the mechanical behavior of several topical composite materials (nanocomposites, nanohybrids and ormocer) using different application techniques. In a lower second molar, a class II occlusal cavity was prepared. As filling materials, we used the following combinations: Admira Fusion and Admira Fusion Flow, Grandio and Grandio Flow, Filtek Supreme XT and Filtek Supreme Flow. These were applied using a snow plow, injection molded and Bichacho techniques. Three-dimensional scanning of the molar with the prepared cavity was performed, and then scanning of each layer of added composite material was performed, obtaining three-dimensional models. The virtual molar models were analyzed with software specific to the finite element analysis method, where their physical-mechanical properties were entered and assigned to the components of the virtual molar. Simulations at high forces specific to bruxism were then carried out and analyzed, and compared. The values of displacements and strain, for all six analyzed situations, are relatively small (range from 5.25 × 10-6-3.21 × 10-5 for displacement, 6.22 × 10-3-4.34 × 10-3 for strain), which validates all three methods and the materials used. As far as the stress values are concerned, they are similar for all methods (250-300 MPa), except for the snow plow and injection-molded techniques using Grandio and Grandio Flow composites, where the maximum von Mises stress value was more than double (approximately 700 MPa). When using the combination of Grandio and Grandio Flow materials, the 1 mm thickness of the fluid composite layer was found to have a major influence on occlusal forces damping as opposed to 0.5 mm. Therefore, the Bichacho technique is indicated at the expense of the snow plow and injection-molded techniques. The composite materials used by us in this study are state-of-the-art, with clear indications for restoring cavities resulting from the treatment of carious lesions. However, their association and application technique in the case of Class II cavities is of clinical importance for resistance to masticatory forces.

An In Vitro Study regarding the Wear of Composite Materials Following the Use of Dental Bleaching Protocols.

Composite materials used in dental restorations are considered resistant, long-lasting and aesthetic. As the wear of restorations is an important element in long-term use, the aim of this study was to evaluate the surface condition of nanohybrid and microfilled composite resins, after being subjected to the erosive action of dental bleaching protocols. This paper reflects a comparative study between one nanofilled composite and three microfilled composites used in restorations. For each composite, three sets of samples (under the form of composite discs) were created: a control group, an "office bleach" group with discs bleached with 40% hydrogen peroxide gel, and a "home bleach" group with discs bleached with 16% carbamide peroxide gel. Wear was numerically determined as the trace and the coefficients of friction obtained using a tribometer, the ball-on-disk test method, and two balls: alumina and sapphire. For all composite groups, there were statistically significant differences between the wear corresponding to the control and bleaching groups, for both testing balls. Regarding the composite type, the largest traces were recorded for GC Gradia direct anterior, for all groups, using the alumina ball. In contrast, for the sapphire ball, 3M ESPE Filtek Z550 was characterized by the largest traces. With respect to the friction coefficients, the "office bleach" group recorded the largest values, no matter the composite or the ball type used. The 3M ESPE Valux Plus composite recorded the largest friction coefficients for the alumina ball, and 3M ESPE Filtek Z550 for the sapphire ball. Overall, the "office bleach" group was characterized by higher composite wear, compared to the "home bleach" protocol or control group. Nanofilled composite resins showed superior wear resistance to microfilled resins after undergoing a bleaching protocol.

Surgery for Functional Tricuspid Regurgitation in Adult Atrial Septal Defect - An Increasing Subject in a Decreasing Matter.

INTRODUCTION: Functional tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is known to complicate adult atrial septal defect (ASD), but its management is still under debate. We reviewed our experience in ASD surgery, focusing on associated functional TR and its treatment. METHODS: This retrospective study (2005-2019) included 206 consecutive adult ASD surgical cases without associated valve pathology, except functional TR. Variables were statistically compared on TR classes and surgery-defined groups. RESULTS: Mean age of the patients was 40.3±13 years; 19.9% had sinus venosus syndrome. TR severity was directly related to age, pulmonary systolic pressure, right ventricular and tricuspid annulus diameters, and heart failure class. TR ≥ 2 was found in 134 (65%) patients, while TR ≥ 3 in 56 (27.2%) patients. Tricuspid surgery was associated to shunt closure in 66 (32%) patients, almost all through valve repair; indication was directly related to age, right ventricular and tricuspid annulus diameters, and heart failure class ≥ 3. Tricuspid surgery was more efficient than isolated shunt closure in decreasing TR (79±23% vs. 36±26%; P=1.8 E-18). Device closure availability (last four years of the study) was associated with 1/3 reduction of surgical cases but increased the share of cases with TR>2 (> 51% vs. < 31%; P<0.05). CONCLUSION: In the era of device closure, surgery for adult ASD is less frequent, but the share of significant TR cases is in net increase. To avoid long-term postoperative TR, we plead for valve repair in all patients with severe TR and for considering repair in moderate TR at risk of persistence.

Triple-valve replacement for Rhizobium radiobacter endocarditis with septic shock in an adult with ventricular septal defect. A case report.

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE: Triple-valve replacement in active infective endocarditis has rarely been reported. This paper is the first report of a triple-valve replacement performed in endocarditis with septic shock and the first presentation of multivalvular endocarditis due to Rhizobium radiobacter. CASE PRESENTATION: A 26-year-old patient with a neglected ventricular septal defect referred to us in septic shock, with multiple organ failure, severe biventricular dysfunction, and pulmonary hypertension, due to Rhizobium radiobacter infective endocarditis affecting the aortic, tricuspid and pulmonary valves. Initially, he was deemed unfit for surgery. However, after clinical stabilization, triple-valve replacement, aortic annular abscess repair, membranous septum aneurysm resection, and ventricular septal defect patch closure were performed. The postoperative evolution was good; both ventricles showed functional recovery after six months. CLINICAL DISCUSSION: Although surgery provides the best chances of survival in endocarditis with septic shock, reportedly, most cases are considered inoperable. Clinical stabilization under intensive care using specific therapies to manage septic shock, myocardial dysfunction, and pulmonary hypertension was crucial for surgery success. Custodiol® cardioplegia, and replacement of the right-sided valves using a beating-heart technique were used to reduce the myocardial ischemic time. CONCLUSION: Rhizobium radiobacter, an opportunistic gram-negative bacterium, potentially may cause multiple valve endocarditis. Patients with endocarditis and septic shock initially considered inoperable can still benefit from surgery after tenacious intensive care (cytokine hemoadsorption and levosimendan are helpful in this process). In complex multivalvular procedures, a beating heart technique to replace the right-sided valves should be considered to minimize the duration of myocardial ischemia.

Approach of Acromegaly during Pregnancy.

Acromegaly-related sub/infertility, tidily related to suboptimal disease control (1/2 of cases), correlates with hyperprolactinemia (1/3 of patients), hypogonadotropic hypogonadism­mostly affecting the pituitary axis in hypopituitarism (10−80%), and negative effects of glucose profile (GP) anomalies (10−70%); thus, pregnancy is an exceptional event. Placental GH (Growth Hormone) increases from weeks 5−15 with a peak at week 37, stimulating liver IGF1 and inhibiting pituitary GH secreted by normal hypophysis, not by somatotropinoma. However, estrogens induce a GH resistance status, protecting the fetus form GH excess; thus a full-term, healthy pregnancy may be possible. This is a narrative review of acromegaly that approaches cardio-metabolic features (CMFs), somatotropinoma expansion (STE), management adjustment (MNA) and maternal-fetal outcomes (MFOs) during pregnancy. Based on our method (original, in extenso, English­published articles on PubMed, between January 2012 and September 2022), we identified 24 original papers­13 studies (3 to 141 acromegalic pregnancies per study), and 11 single cases reports (a total of 344 pregnancies and an additional prior unpublished report). With respect to maternal acromegaly, pregnancies are spontaneous or due to therapy for infertility (clomiphene, gonadotropins or GnRH) and, lately, assisted reproduction techniques (ARTs); there are no consistent data on pregnancies with paternal acromegaly. CMFs are the most important complications (7.7−50%), especially concerning worsening of HBP (including pre/eclampsia) and GP anomalies, including gestational diabetes mellitus (DM); the best predictor is the level of disease control at conception (IGF1), and, probably, family history of 2DM, and body mass index. STE occurs rarely (a rate of 0 to 9%); some of it symptoms are headache and visual field anomalies; it is treated with somatostatin analogues (SSAs) or alternatively dopamine agonists (DAs); lately, second trimester selective hypophysectomy has been used less, since pharmaco-therapy (PT) has proven safe. MNA: PT that, theoretically, needs to be stopped before conception­continued if there was STE or an inoperable tumor (no clear period of exposure, preferably, only first trimester). Most data are on octreotide > lanreotide, followed by DAs and pegvisomant, and there are none on pasireotide. Further follow-up is required: a prompt postpartum re-assessment of the mother's disease; we only have a few data confirming the safety of SSAs during lactation and long-term normal growth and developmental of the newborn (a maximum of 15 years). MFO seem similar between PT + ve and PT − ve, regardless of PT duration; the additional risk is actually due to CMF. One study showed a 2-year median between hypophysectomy and pregnancy. Conclusion: Close surveillance of disease burden is required, particularly, concerning CMF; a personalized approach is useful; the level of statistical evidence is expected to expand due to recent progress in MNA and ART.

Post Placement and Restoration of Endodontically Treated Canines: A Finite Element Analysis Study.

The purpose of this study was to show the improved outcomes of restoring endodontically treated teeth with fiberglass posts compared to restorations using metal posts. In our study, we used the Finite Element Method (FEM), which is based on the principle that a physical model that supports a given load distributes the stress throughout its volume. We sought to assess what stress results in a tooth when it is restored using a fiberglass post compared to restoration using a metal post. The finite element analysis showed that a system consisting of a tooth with a fiberglass post is more stable in terms of the maximum stress than a system consisting of a tooth with a metal post. The maximum displacements and deformations were obtained in the case of a canine restored with a fiberglass post, which showed that this system had a high elasticity, therefore, higher strength than a canine restored with a metal post, which had high rigidity.

Approach of Heterogeneous Spectrum Involving 3beta-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase 2 Deficiency.

We aim to review data on 3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type II (3ßHSD2) deficiency. We identified 30 studies within the last decade on PubMed: 1 longitudinal study (N = 14), 2 cross-sectional studies, 1 retrospective study (N = 16), and 26 case reports (total: 98 individuals). Regarding geographic area: Algeria (N = 14), Turkey (N = 31), China (2 case reports), Morocco (2 sisters), Anatolia (6 cases), and Italy (N = 1). Patients' age varied from first days of life to puberty; the oldest was of 34 y. Majority forms displayed were salt-wasting (SW); some associated disorders of sexual development (DSD) were attendant also-mostly 46,XY males and mild virilisation in some 46,XX females. SW pushed forward an early diagnosis due to severity of SW crisis. The clinical spectrum goes to: premature puberty (80%); 9 with testicular adrenal rest tumours (TARTs); one female with ovarian adrenal rest tumours (OARTs), and some cases with adrenal hyperplasia; cardio-metabolic complications, including iatrogenic Cushing' syndrome. More incidental (unusual) associations include: 1 subject with Barter syndrome, 1 Addison's disease, 2 subjects of Klinefelter syndrome (47,XXY/46,XX, respective 47,XXY). Neonatal screening for 21OHD was the scenario of detection in some cases; 17OHP might be elevated due to peripheral production (pitfall for misdiagnosis of 21OHD). An ACTH stimulation test was used in 2 studies. Liquid chromatography tandem-mass spectrometry unequivocally sustains the diagnostic by expressing high baseline 17OH-pregnenolone to cortisol ratio as well as 11-oxyandrogen levels. HSD3B2 gene sequencing was provided in 26 articles; around 20 mutations were described as "novel pathogenic mutation" (frameshift, missense or nonsense); many subjects had a consanguineous background. The current COVID-19 pandemic showed that CAH-associated chronic adrenal insufficiency is at higher risk. Non-adherence to hormonal replacement contributed to TARTs growth, thus making them surgery candidates. To our knowledge, this is the largest study on published cases strictly concerning 3ßHSD2 deficiency according to our methodology. Adequate case management underlines the recent shift from evidence-based medicine to individualized (patient-oriented) medicine, this approach being particularly applicable in this exceptional and challenging disorder.

Remote Water Temperature Measurements Based on Brillouin Scattering with a Frequency Doubled Pulsed Yb:doped Fiber Amplifier.

Temperature profiles of the ocean are of interest for weather forecasts, climate studies and oceanography in general. Currently, mostly in situ techniques such as fixed buoys or bathythermographs deliver oceanic temperature profiles. A LIDAR method based on Brillouin scattering is an attractive alternative for remote sensing of such water temperature profiles. It makes it possible to deliver cost-effective on-line data covering an extended region of the ocean. The temperature measurement is based on spontaneous Brillouin scattering in water. In this contribution, we present the first water temperature measurements using a Yb:doped pulsed fiber amplifier. The fiber amplifier is a custom designed device which can be operated in a vibrational environment while emitting narrow bandwidth laser pulses. The device shows promising performance and demonstrates the feasibility of this approach. Furthermore, the current status of the receiver is briefly discussed; it is based on an excited state Faraday anomalous dispersion optical filter.

Skeletal muscle regeneration involves macrophage-myoblast bonding.

Regeneration in adult skeletal muscle relies on the activation, proliferation, and fusion of myogenic precursor cells (MPC), mostly resident satellite cells (SC). However, the regulatory mechanism during this process is still under evaluation, with the final aim to manipulate regeneration when the intrinsic mechanism is corrupted. Furthermore, intercellular connections during skeletal muscle regeneration have not been previously thoroughly documented. Our hypothesis was that a direct and close cellular interaction between SC/MPC and invading myeloid cells is a key step to control regeneration. We tested this hypothesis during different steps of skeletal muscle regeneration: (a) the recruitment of activated SC; (b) the differentiation of MPC; (c) myotubes growth, in a mouse model of crush injury. Samples harvested (3 and 5 days) post-injury were screened by light and confocal microscopy. Ultrastructural analysis was performed by conventional transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) followed by 3D modeling of electron tomography (ET) data. This revealed a new type of interaction between macrophages and myogenic cells by direct heterocellular surface apposition over large areas and long linear distances. In the analyzed volume, regions spaced below 20 nm, within molecular range, represented 31% of the macrophage membrane surface and more than 27% of the myotube membrane. The constant interaction throughout all stages of myogenesis suggests a potential new type of regulatory mechanism for the myogenic process. Thus, deciphering structural and molecular mechanisms of SC-macrophage interaction following injury might open promising perspectives for improving muscle healing.

Surgery for Functional Tricuspid Regurgitation in Adult Atrial Septal Defect — An Increasing Subject in a Decreasing Matter

ABSTRACT Introduction: Functional tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is known to complicate adult atrial septal defect (ASD), but its management is still under debate. We reviewed our experience in ASD surgery, focusing on associated functional TR and its treatment. Methods: This retrospective study (2005-2019) included 206 consecutive adult ASD surgical cases without associated valve pathology, except functional TR. Variables were statistically compared on TR classes and surgery-defined groups. Results: Mean age of the patients was 40.3±13 years; 19.9% had sinus venosus syndrome. TR severity was directly related to age, pulmonary systolic pressure, right ventricular and tricuspid annulus diameters, and heart failure class. TR ≥ 2 was found in 134 (65%) patients, while TR ≥ 3 in 56 (27.2%) patients. Tricuspid surgery was associated to shunt closure in 66 (32%) patients, almost all through valve repair; indication was directly related to age, right ventricular and tricuspid annulus diameters, and heart failure class ≥ 3. Tricuspid surgery was more efficient than isolated shunt closure in decreasing TR (79±23% vs. 36±26%; P=1.8 E-18). Device closure availability (last four years of the study) was associated with 1/3 reduction of surgical cases but increased the share of cases with TR>2 (> 51% vs. < 31%; P<0.05). Conclusion: In the era of device closure, surgery for adult ASD is less frequent, but the share of significant TR cases is in net increase. To avoid long-term postoperative TR, we plead for valve repair in all patients with severe TR and for considering repair in moderate TR at risk of persistence.

Kinetic control of surface patterning by laser-induced photochemical deposition in liquid solutions. II. Experimental investigations.

We experimentally analyze the real-time formation of periodic surface patterning resulting from laser-driven photochemical deposition in liquid solutions. Using photochemical deposition of chromium hydroxide layers driven by a continuous Ar+ laser wave in a potassium chromate solution, we analyze the kinetic formation of three different types of patterning: dot array, periodic line writing, and holographic grating formed by interfering beams. Results are also presented for both flat and curved substrates. In each case, the deposit growth laws are measured and they show the emergence of scaling regimes that are predicted by our model [Phys. Rev. E 69, 051605 (2004)]]. Data taken from literature are also confronted to the model. The observed agreement suggests that a unified picture of the processes involved for photodeposition driven by a one-photon absorption can be devised, whatever the initial photosensitive medium is. This kinetic control of photodeposition, associated to the versatility in monitoring the geometry of laser/medium interaction and the flexibility in deposited materials by various photochemical reactions, offers a valuable level of development in substrate patterning for lithographic or holographic applications.

Can elastography replace fine needle aspiration?

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is one of the best diagnostic methods for diseases of the digestive tract and surrounding organs. Whereas EUS-guided fine needle aspiration (FNA) has been very useful for providing histological confirmation for previously hard to reach lesions, elastography is aiming to obtain a "virtual biopsy" by assessing differences in elasticity between the normal and pathological - usually malignant - tissue. A question that arises is whether EUS-elastography has reached a stage where it might successfully supplant the use of EUS-FNA in some of its clinical indications. The main indications of EUS-guided FNA are listed in this article and published data on the usage of elastography in these settings is reviewed for each one. In some of the indications, a plethora of studies have been published, notably for the evaluation of solid pancreatic masses and lymph nodes, while in others there is little relevant data (submucosal masses, left liver lesions, left adrenal masses), or elastography simply is not suitable as a diagnostic means (cystic lesions). Our conclusion is that elastography is not yet ready to replace EUS-FNA in its indications, but should complement it in various settings, especially for the assessment of lymph nodes. It can only be considered an alternative on a case-by-case basis, in situations where FNA is regarded as a contraindication. Furthermore, it could be used in conjunction with other imaging techniques, such as contrast-enhanced EUS, in order to further improve the accuracy of non-invasive EUS assessment, possibly making the case for a more limited or targeted use of EUS-FNA in selected cases.

Deuterium-depleted water has stimulating effects on long-term memory in rats.

Deuterium-depleted water (DDW) is a water which has a 6-7-fold less concentration of the naturally occurring deuterium (20-25ppm vs. 150ppm). While administrated for a longer period, it may reduce the concentration of deuterium throughout the body, thus activating cellular mechanisms which are depending on protons (channels, pumps, enzyme proteins). The aim of the present work was to study, for the first time in our knowledge, the possible influence of deuterium-depleted water (DDW) chronic administration in normal Wistar rats, as compared to a control group which received distilled water, on spatial working memory and the locomotor activity (as studied through Y-maze) or both short-term and long-term spatial memory (assed in radial 8 arms-maze task). Our results presented here showed no significant modifications in terms of spatial working memory (assessed through spontaneous alternation percentage) and locomotor activity (expressed through the number of arm entries) in Y-maze, as a result of DDW ingestion. Also, no significant differences between the DDW and control group were found in terms of the number of working memory errors in the eight-arm radial maze, as a parameter of short-term memory. Still, we observed a significant decrease for the number of reference memory errors in the DDW rats. In this way, we could speculate that the administration of DDW may generate an improvement of the reference memory, as an index of long-term memory. Thus, we can reach the conclusion that the change between the deuterium/hydrogen balance may have important consequences for the mechanisms that govern long-term memory, as showed here especially in the behavioral parameters from the eight-arm radial maze task.