Unveiling the Mysteries of a Composite Compound Odontoma: Insights From the Management of a Rare Entity

Odontomas are one of the slow-growing odontogenic tumors. They are not a true neoplasm and are considered to be hamartoma. Odontomas consist of four distinct tissues, i.e., enamel, dentin, pulp, and cementum. Odontomas develop from fibroepithelial and undifferentiated mesenchymal cells which are essential for the development of the tooth. These are mostly asymptomatic and are incidentally detected on routine radiographic examination. This case report presents a unique case of a composite compound odontoma in an adult patient with flaring of teeth. A 28-year-old male patient reported to the Department of Dentistry for the correction of spacing in the upper front tooth region. Prompt diagnosis and management, including odontoma removal and aesthetic correction, were initiated. This case highlights the possibility of the presence of malformed tooth-like structures associated with flaring of teeth. It also focuses on the need for increased vigilance in individuals undergoing aesthetic correction procedures in the anterior maxillary region.

Bone augmentation in dental implants among Indian patients

It is of interest to compare guided bone regeneration (GBR) with titanium mesh, alveolar distraction osteo-genesis (DO), GBR with auto-genous bone and e-PTFE membranes and onlay bone grafts. This helps to restore vertically lacking alveolar ridges and their capacity to sustain the vertical bone growth acquired both prior to and following implant placement. The parameters such as (i) success and survival of dental implants (ii) peri-implant clinical parameters after prosthetic loading at 1 year, 2 year and 3 year follow up (iii) resorption of alveolar ridge regenerated before placement of dental implants and after placement of dental implants were assessed. Data shows that the distraction osteo-genesis is more predictable for long-term prognosis of vertical bone growth. However, all methods help to repair the vertically resorbed edentulous ridges.

Innovative ex vivo exploration: A comparative study of novel approaches of root canal filling material removal efficiency

Introduction

Retention of the natural tooth without any symptoms in the oral cavity is one of the prime desires of endodontic treatment. Root canal therapy usually leads to failure when treatment is not up to the mark of acceptable standards. To address these deficiencies, non-surgical endodontic retreatment is the most accepted option with the success rate ranging from 65% to 83%. Forty-five single-rooted mandibular premolars with undeviated canals (as per Schneider's criteria) were obtained and divided further into three groups with 15 specimens along with resin-based sealer solvent in each group: Group 1 - Retreatment rotary file system, Group 2 - Ultrasonics, and Group 3 - Diode laser. Specimens were then evaluated under a stereomicroscope at ×10 after cutting in two halves followed by evaluation of the remaining filling material using Hulsmann and Bluhm criteria.

Context

Nonsurgical retreatment.

Aims

The aim of the study was to evaluate and compare the efficacy of various retreatment techniques for the elimination of root canal filling material.

Settings and Design

The sample size was determined using the formula n = (Zα/2)2 s2/d2. The design of the study is in vitro experimental study.

Subjects and Methods

A sum of 45 single-rooted extracted human permanent mandibular premolars were included in this study. All teeth were biomechanically prepared and obturated followed by decoronating the samples. All specimens were randomly divided into 3 groups comprising 15 specimens along with solvent based on the technique for the filling material elimination from the root canal, i.e. Group I: retreatment rotary files, Group II: ultrasonics, and Group III: diode laser.

Statistical Analysis Used

The Tukey's post hoc tests and one-way analysis of variance were used for comparison of the study parameters among the groups.

Results

Results revealed that ultrasonics showed the least amount of remaining filling material within the root canal which had a significant difference from other groups, i.e. retreatment rotary files and diode laser.

Conclusions

Ultrasonics with a resin-based sealer solvent can be considered a preferred option for nonsurgical retreatment. However, none of the groups shows complete elimination of filling material inside the root canal system.

Oral Myiasis in an Immunocompromised Adult Undergoing Chemotherapy: A Rare Case and Comprehensive Treatment Protocol

Oral myiasis, a rare condition caused by the infestation of live maggots in the oral cavity, can present unique challenges in immunocompromised individuals. This case report presents a unique case of oral myiasis in an immunocompromised adult undergoing chemotherapy. A 67-year-old female suffering from metastatic carcinoma of the ovary was undergoing chemotherapy treatment at the time of presentation. Prompt diagnosis and management, including larval removal, wound care, and systemic antibiotics, were initiated. This case highlights the susceptibility of immunocompromised individuals to uncommon complications, such as oral myiasis, due to their compromised immune system. It also emphasizes the need for heightened vigilance in the oral care and monitoring of immunocompromised patients undergoing chemotherapy, as well as the importance of early intervention to prevent potential complications associated with oral myiasis. In this article, we have also included a comprehensive treatment protocol for treating this condition based on our clinical experience.

A Case Report on an Insurmountable Endodontic Problem: Internal Resorption

Endodontists have a major problem when dealing with perforating internal resorption, which is an uncommon condition in permanent teeth. Success in treating a resorbed root can only be achieved if the root is properly diagnosed, removed, and treated. Cone-beam computed tomography was used to locate the resorptive lesion and assess its severity (CBCT). A maxillary canine with significant root perforation owing to internal resorption was successfully surgically treated in this case report. 

Esthetic management of complicated crown fracture of three permanent maxillary teeth by grout technique -A case report

Dental injury particularly anterior teeth trauma has severe effects on the social and mental prosperity of a patient hence requiring useful and esthetic repair at the most urgent. Customarily, fracture anterior teeth have been reestablished with composite tars; in any case, they have the essential disservice of shading bungle and variable wear. On the off chance that the tooth's fracture section is accessible and sound, reclamation of the tooth utilizing its own particular piece has likewise been recommended. Reattachment of tooth part ought to be considered and is a practical other option to customary methodologies as a result of effortlessness, unmatched characteristic style, and preservation of tooth structure. It can give great and dependable style in light of the fact that the tooth's unique anatomic shape, shading, and surface are kept up. Patient collaboration and comprehension of the restrictions of the treatment is of most extreme significance for the good result. This case report accentuation the inventive strategy of overseeing crown root break treated effectively utilizing tooth part reattachment.

Effect of gutkha chewing on periodontal health and oral hygiene of peoples in Delhi NCR region of North India: A cross-sectional multicentered study

Background

In India, gutkha is popular among all socioeconomic groups, since it is available easily and is of less cost. Various investigations have demonstrated the relationship of gutkha biting with periodontal status and oral hygiene.

Aim

The aim of this study is to assess the effect of gutkha chewing on periodontal health and oral hygiene of patients attending the dental department in India.

Materials and Methods

A cross-sectional investigation was directed among 200 patients going to dental camps. Among them, 100 were gutkha chewers and 100 were smokers. The oral hygiene status of selected patients was determined by using the Simplified Oral Hygiene Index. Various periodontal parameters like a gingival recession, clinical attachment loss, mobility, and furcation were used to evaluate the periodontal status. Data were collected and analyzed with the help of SPSS software version 20.

Result

Among the 200 subjects, 102 were males and 78 were females. In 100 gutkha chewers, 67% were male and 33% were females. About 68% gutkha chewers showed poor oral hygiene as compared to nonchewers (41%). The values of all the periodontal parameters were significantly higher in gutkha smokers compared to nonchewers.

Conclusion

Gutkha chewing has a strong effect on oral hygiene. The findings can contribute to the evidence of smokeless tobacco (gutkha) as a risk factor for periodontal disease.

Effect of orthodontic treatment needs on oral health related quality of life among the young population in Delhi NCR-region of North India

Aim:

To assess the effect of orthodontic treatment needs on oral health-related quality of life among the young people of Delhi NCR.

Methods:

The study was conducted on 12–15 years of individuals attending dental clinic/hospital in Delhi NCR region. Data were collected using Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need -Dental Component and oral health impact profile 14 questionnaire. The Chi-square test was used to analyze the qualitative data. SPSS software version 20 was used for statistical analysis.

Results:

Orthodontic treatment needs had an almost similar impact on the daily activities of both males and females. The sense of taste was not significantly affected by the need for orthodontic treatment in either males or females. The proportions of orthodontic patients found to have the painful arch, embarrassment, tension, and self-conscious both in males and females.

Conclusion:

There is a significant correlation of orthodontic treatment needs among oral health-related quality of life.

Role of oral care to prevent VAP in mechanically ventilated Intensive Care Unit patients

Ventilator associated pneumonia (VAP) is the most common nosocomial infection in Intensive Care Unit. One major factor causing VAP is the aspiration of oral colonization because of poor oral care practices. We feel the role of simple measure like oral care is neglected, despite the ample evidence of it being instrumental in preventing VAP.

Characterization of Nutty Flavor in Cheddar Cheese

The objectives of this study were to determine the volatile components responsible for the sensory perception of nutty flavor in Cheddar cheese. Cheddar cheeses with and without nutty flavors were selected by descriptive sensory analysis. Volatile aroma components from Cheddar cheeses with and without nutty flavors were isolated and characterized using solvent extraction with high vacuum distillation, dynamic headspace analysis, gas chromatography-olfactometry, and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. More than 50 aroma-active compounds were detected in Cheddar cheeses. Consistent differences were observed between nutty and not nutty Cheddar cheeses. Strecker aldehydes were detected in higher amounts in Cheddar cheeses with nutty flavors compared with Cheddar cheeses without nutty flavors. Strecker aldehydes, dimethyl sulfide, and propionic acid were evaluated in young and aged Cheddar cheese models for nutty flavor by descriptive sensory analysis. Dimethyl sulfide and propionic acid did not contribute to nutty flavor in Cheddar cheese. The addition of Strecker aldehydes to young (<4 mo old) Cheddar cheese models resulted in nutty/malty flavor perceived by sensory analysis. When Strecker aldehydes were incorporated into aged (>9 mo old) Cheddar cheese models, nutty flavor perception increased. Strecker aldehydes contribute to nutty flavor in aged Cheddar cheese.

Modification of cysteine residues by N-ethylmaleimide inhibits annexin II tetramer mediated liposome aggregation

A role of cysteine residues in annexin II tetramer (AIIt)'s function was investigated using the sulfhydryl reagent N-ethylmaleimide (NEM). Incubation of AIIt with NEM resulted in a dose-dependent inhibition of AIIt-mediated liposome aggregation and loss of sulfhydryl groups of AIIt. The concentration effecting 50% inhibition was 0.18 mM. The inhibition was observed in all Ca2+ concentrations tested (1-1000 microM). NEM had no effects on liposome aggregation mediated by other annexins (I, III, and IV), indicating that the inhibitory effect caused by NEM modification is specific to AIIt. The NEM-treated AIIt still can bind to liposomes. However, once AIIt was bound to membrane, the cysteine residues were protected from NEM modification. Our results suggest that cysteine residues are critical for AIIt-mediated liposome aggregation.

Isolation and identification of further peptides in the diafiltration retentate of the water-soluble fraction of Cheddar cheese

Several peptides were isolated from the diafiltration retentate, prepared using 10 kDa membranes, of the water-soluble extract from a commercial mature Cheddar cheese and identified by amino acid sequencing and mass spectrometry. Most of the peptides were from the N-terminal half of the beta-casein, but peptides from alpha s1- and alpha s2-caseins were also identified; the extract also contained alpha-lactalbumin. Identified peptides showed the important role played by lactococcal cell envelope proteinases in the degradation of primary proteolytic products from alpha s1- and beta-caseins, produced by chymosin and plasmin respectively. Plasmin seemed to be involved in the hydrolysation of alpha s2-casein. Several phosphopeptides were identified and the action of phosphatase on these peptides was evident.

Direct agglutination test for early diagnosis of Indian visceral leishmaniasis

In a prospective study, 80 cases of fever with hepatosplenomegaly, anemia and leucopaenia coming from the hyperendemic zones for visceral leishmaniasis of North-Bihar, India were screened and subjected to bone marrow or splenic puncture for demonstration of Leishman-donovan bodies (LDB) and DIRECT AGGLUTINATION TEST (DAT) with antigen prepared by Harith et al. 59 cases were confirmed for Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL) by demonstration of LDB in which DAT was also positive in different titres ranging from 1:1600 onwards. Out of 21 cases in which the bone marrow was negative for parasite, DAT was positive in 10 cases. 8 Out of 10 cases responded to WHO regimen of treatment with sodium stibogluconate (SSG). Remaining two cases who did not respond to this therapy became positive for parasites on subsequent splenic aspirate. They were treated with pentamidine isethionate and were cured. 11 out of 80 cases showing a titre of 1:400 or lower in DAT, 6 proved to be cases of enteric fever and 5 of malaria. Thus DAT using Harith's antigen was found to be 100% sensitive and specific in detection of early cases of Indian VL.

Water-soluble peptides in Cheddar cheese: isolation and identification of peptides in the diafiltration retentate of the water-soluble fraction

The water-soluble extract of Cheddar cheese was fractionated by diafiltration using 10 kDa cut-off membranes. Peptides were isolated from the diafiltrate retentate by chromatography on DEAE-cellulose with a linear NaCl gradient in 50 mM-Tris-HCl. pH 8.6, and reversed-phase HPLC or electroblotting from urea-PAGE gels. Peptides were identified by determining N-terminal amino acid sequences and mass spectrometry. Most (45) of the total 51 peptides identified in the diafiltrate retentate originated from beta-casein, especially from a short region in the N-terminal half of the molecule. Only six peptides originated from alpha s1-casein; beta-lactoglobulin was also identified in the retentate. The origin of most of these peptides could be explained on the basis of known specificities of lactococcal cell envelope proteinases.

Use of amphotericin B in drug-resistant cases of visceral leishmaniasis in north Bihar, India

Thirty-four multidrug-resistant cases of Indian visceral leishmaniasis (kala-azar) were treated with amphotericin B. A complete hemogram, liver and renal function tests, determination of serum electrolyte levels, a chest radiograph, and an electrocardiogram were done before, during, and after completion of therapy. Assessment for clinical and parasitologic cure was done weekly. Thirty-one patients who completed treatment had full cure after receiving 10-15 injections at six-months follow up. One patient died of myocarditis. A febrile reaction was observed in all cases, while thrombophlebitis was found in six cases (18.75%). Anorexia, nausea, and vomiting were found in seven cases (21.88%). No significant nephrotoxicity or electrolyte disturbances were observed. It is concluded that amphotericin B is an effective second-line drug for Indian visceral leishmaniasis, but unpredictable drug-induced myocarditis remains a problem.

Effect of phospholipase C and apolipophorin III on the structure and stability of lipophorin subspecies

Four distinct subspecies of the insect hemolymph lipoprotein, lipophorin, that range in diacylglycerol (DAG) content from approximately 100 to 1000 molecules per particle, were treated with phospholipase C. Lipid analysis demonstrated that both phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine were hydrolyzed to DAG. Phospholipase C was used to remove 74-82% of the phospholipid of different lipophorins and these were analyzed for aggregation. Low density lipophorin (LDLp), the largest subspecies, with a diameter of approximately 23 nm, developed turbidity (monitored by sample absorbance at 340 nm) suggesting the formation of lipoprotein aggregates. High density lipophorin-adult (HDLp-A) and high density lipophorin-wanderer 1 (HDLp-W1) also displayed an increase in A340 when incubated with phospholipase C, although the maximal increase observed was considerably less than that for LDLp on a per particle basis. Phospholipase C caused only a minimal increase in A340 in a fourth subspecies, high density lipophorin-wanderer 2 (HDLp-W2), which contains an even lower amount of DAG. Electron microscopy was used to evaluate changes in particle morphology as a result of phospholipid depletion. HDLp-W2 and HDLp-W1 showed signs of progressive aggregation and particle fusion. A similar aggregation/fusion was seen in the case of high density lipophorin adult (HDLp-A) while LDLp samples contained multiple aggregation/fusion foci and resultant very large particles. In the presence of exogenous apolipophorin III (apoLp-III), phospholipase C-induced lipophorin aggregation/fusion was prevented. Electron microscopy of LDLp and HDLp-A samples revealed that apoLp-III-stabilized, phospholipase C-treated particles had a morphology similar to that of control particles.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

An assessment of serum lipid and lipoprotein levels in patients with ischaemic heart disease

A total of 166 patients who had one or more attacks of myocardial infarction and those with angina pectoris, forty-five relative of 18 hyperlipidemic survivors of ischaemic heart disease, and 330 healthy persons (controls) were investigated for serum lipid profiles. Fifty-six of the 166 patients were hyperlipidemic. The commonest abnormalities in lipoproteins were Types IIa, IIb and IV. 75.5% of the 45 relatives investigated were hyperlipidemic. The familial studies showed that hyperlipidemias occurred in the family members of persons with ischaemic heart disease suggesting that hyperlipidemia could play an important role in predisposing familial clustering of coronary heart disease. A family history of heart disease may be a useful marker for identifying persons who are more likely to have high levels of blood lipids for possible treatment.

A turbidimetric assay of lipid transfer activity

A novel method to assay insect plasma lipid transfer particle (LTP) activity has been developed that employs insect high density lipophorin (HDLp) and human low density lipoprotein (LDL) as donor/acceptor substrate particles. At a 3:1 or greater HDLp:LDL protein ratio, LTP-mediated net vectorial transfer of diacylglycerol from lipophorin to LDL produces destabilized LDL particles that aggregate, causing sample turbidity. Turbidity was measured spectrophotometrically as a function of absorbance at 340 nm. After an initial lag phase, lipoprotein sample turbidity increased as a function of reaction time and LTP concentration. Saturation was observed at longer times or higher LTP concentrations, indicating that a reaction end point had been reached. As the substrate HDLp concentration was increased relative to LDL, a saturable increase in LTP-induced lipoprotein sample turbidity was observed. When the LDL concentration was increased relative to HDLp, however, there was an initial production of turbidity but at higher concentrations the sample did not develop turbidity. Reaction progress was also dependent on temperature over the range 0-37 degrees C. Taken together the results are consistent with the concept that LTP-mediated diacylglycerol transfer from HDLp to LDL creates unstable product LDL particles that aggregate. The assay method is advantageous because it employs relatively abundant, natural lipoprotein substrates, does not require prelabeling of donor lipid particles with radioactive or fluorescent lipids, and does not require separation of donor and acceptor after incubation. This is the first description of a lipid transfer assay that can be measured spectrophotometrically.

Conversion of human low density lipoprotein into a very low density lipoprotein-like particle in vitro

The lipid substrate specificity of Manduca sexta lipid transfer particle (LTP) was examined in in vitro lipid transfer assays employing high density lipophorin and human low density lipoprotein (LDL) as donor/acceptor substrates. Unesterified cholesterol was found to exchange spontaneously between these substrate lipoproteins, and the extent of transfer/exchange was not affected by LTP. By contrast, transfer of labeled phosphatidylcholine and cholesteryl ester was dependent on LTP in a concentration-dependent manner. Facilitated phosphatidylcholine transfer occurred at a faster rate than facilitated cholesteryl ester transfer; this observation suggests that either LTP may have an inherent preference for polar lipids or the accessibility of specific lipids in the donor substrate particle influences their rate of transfer. The capacity of LDL to accept exogenous lipid from lipophorin was investigated by increasing the high density lipophorin:LDL ratio in transfer assays. At a 3:1 (protein) ratio in the presence of LTP, LDL became turbid (and aggregated LDL were observed by electron microscopy) indicating LDL has a finite capacity to accept exogenous lipid while maintaining an overall stable structure. When either isolated human non B very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) apoproteins or insect apolipophorin III (apoLp-III) were included in transfer experiments, the sample did not become turbid although lipid transfer proceeded to the same extent as in the absence of added apolipoprotein. The reduction in sample turbidity caused by exogenous apolipoprotein occurred in a concentration-dependent manner, suggesting that these proteins associate with the surface of LDL and stabilize the increment of lipid/water interface created by LTP-mediated net lipid transfer. The association of apolipoprotein with the surface of modified LDL was confirmed by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis analysis, and scanning densitometry revealed that apoLp-III bound to the surface of LDL in a 1:14 apoB:apoLp-III molar ratio. Electron microscopy showed that apoLp-III-stabilized modified LDL particles have a larger diameter (29.2 +/- 2.6 nm) than that of control LDL (22.7 +/- 1.9 nm), consistent with the observed changes in particle density, lipid, and apolipoprotein content. Thus LTP-catalyzed vectorial lipid transfer can be used to introduce significant modifications into isolated LDL particles and provides a novel mechanism whereby VLDL-LDL interrelationships can be studied.

Lipid transfer particle-catalyzed transfer of lipoprotein-associated diacylglycerol and long chain aliphatic hydrocarbons

Following injection of [1-14C]acetate into the sphinx moth, Manduca sexta, radiolabel was incorporated into lipid components of the major hemolymph lipoprotein, adult high density lipophorin (HDLp-A). Analysis of the labeled lipids by thin layer chromatography and radiochromatogram scanning revealed incorporation of radioactivity into the diacylglycerol (DAG) and hydrocarbon components as well as a third lipid fraction of unknown identity. Lipid transfer experiments were carried out using 14C-lipid HDLp-A and human low density lipoprotein (LDL) as donor/acceptor substrates and M. sexta lipid transfer particle (LTP) as catalyst. In control incubations lacking LTP, nearly all of the radiolabeled lipid remained associated with HDLp-A. LTP, however, induced a time-dependent vectorial transfer of radiolabeled lipid from HDLp-A to LDL. Lipid analysis of the LDL fraction, reisolated following the transfer reaction, revealed that labeled lipid components originally associated with HDLp-A were present in the acceptor LDL particles. The recovery of radiolabeled hydrocarbon associated with LDL demonstrates the capacity of LTP to facilitate transfer of these long chain, extremely hydrophobic, lipids and suggests LTP may function as a mediator of hydrocarbon transport and metabolism in vivo. When acceptor LDL particles were analyzed prior to complete transfer of HDLp-A-associated lipid it was observed that DAG was transferred preferentially during the initial stages of the reaction after which hydrocarbon transfer increased. This result suggests that LTP may have a lipid substrate preference for DAG versus hydrocarbon. Alternatively the observed preference for DAG may be a function of the relative accessibility of the substrates within the donor lipoprotein. In other experiments it was demonstrated that, unlike other lipids associated with HDLp-A, free fatty acid spontaneously transfers to LDL in the absence of lipid transfer catalyst.

Nitrate reductase of rice (Oryza sativa L.) under foot-rot disease

Studies reported here reveal a low nitrate reductase activity in the shoots of MTU 9 rice plants while in roots high enzyme activity has been recorded.Under pathogenesis, a low nitrate reductase activity in the roots and a high enzyme activity in the shoots have been recorded in susceptible rice plants. In the resistant rice plants (GEB 24) no such marked difference in the enzyme activity has been observed.The effect of fusaric and gibberellic acid on this enzyme activity has been studied. In the case of fusaric acid, the nitrate reductase activity in the roots is inversely proportional to the concentration whereas in gibberellic acid, it is directly proportional to the concentration in the shoots.