Biological investigation of resinous endodontic sealers containing calcium hydroxide

The purpose of this study was to evaluate, in vivo, the biocompatibility, biomineralization, collagen maturation and the in vitro antibacterial and cytotoxicity of resinous endodontic sealers containing calcium hydroxide. Forty rats were implanted with polyethylene tubes containing Sealer 26, Sealer Plus, Dia-ProSeal and an empty tube, examined after 7, 15, 30 and 60 days. Antimicrobial activity was evaluated against Enterococcus faecalis by Agar Diffusion Test (ADT) through inhibition zones. For cytotoxicity, undifferentiated pulp cells (OD-21) were cultured and assessed using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, exposed to dilution of serial extracts at 6, 24, 48h. Cytotoxicity was analyzed by two-way ANOVA and Bonferroni correction. Kruskal-Wallis test followed by Dunn test was performed for nonparametric data (p<0.05). MTT assay revealed cell proliferation affected by sealers extract in all periods (p<0.0001), except for Dia-Proseal and Sealer Plus ⅛ dilution. Subcutaneous analysis showed at day 7th moderate inflammatory infiltration. After 30 days, Sealer 26 still showed moderate inflammatory infiltrate compared to mild inflammation from control and Dia-ProSeal (p = 0.006). At day 60th, all groups showed similar mild inflammatory infiltrate (p>0.05). Sealer 26 induced more biomineralization than other sealers in all periods. At 7 and 15 days, all sealers had significant percentage of immature collagen fibers. After 60 days Sealer 26 showed more mature fibers compared to other sealers (p<0.001). All sealers had a smaller zone of inhibition than chlorhexidine, but with no significant difference among any group (p>0.05). All sealers showed satisfactory biological responses with in vitro/in vivo biocompatibility and antimicrobial activity against planktonic bacteria. Sealer 26 induced more biomineralization than Sealer Plus and Dia-ProSeal.

Retention in fissure resin-based sealants in schoolchildren: the etching step importance

DESIGN

Randomized controlled trial.

STUDY POPULATION

Forty-seven schoolchildren aged 9-10 years with fully sound/noncavitated erupted first permanent molars were included and randomly allocated in control and experimental groups in a split-mouth design.

CASES

47 schoolchildren (94 molars) fissure sealants applied using self-etch universal adhesive system.

CONTROLS

47 schoolchildren (94 molars) fissure sealants applied using conventional acid-etching technique.

OUTCOME MEASURE

Retention of sealants and secondary caries incidence (ICDAS).

DATA ANALYSIS

Chi-square test.

RESULTS

Conventional acid-etch sealants retention was superior to self-etch after 6 and 24 months (p < 0.001), but no differences were found in caries incidence after 6 and 24 months (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Clinical retention of fissure sealants using conventional acid-etch technique is greater than self-etch.

Safety Profile of Pistacia lentiscus powder and tears in rat

Pistacia lentiscus L (PL) is commonly known as gum mastic. Its powder and tears are widely used in herbal/ medicinal item, cosmetics and food supplements. The oil and gum resin of (PL) are anticipated to be consuming with other pharmacological agents in order to avoid any drug- drug interaction. The study was design to evaluate the sub-acute toxicity of gum mastic powder (GMP) and gum mastic tears (GMT) at the dose of 0.2857g/kg for a duration of 14 days. On 14th day of experiment, different biochemical test was performed on animal blood sample and then sacrificed for histopathological analysis of heart, liver and kidney and spleen. There were no significant differences in the gross and histopathology changes in vital organs like heart, liver and kidney and spleen tissues at the dose of 0.2857g/kg of gum mastic tears and powder and their corresponding control. The results indicate that both GMP and GMT can be used as cardio-protective and in gout treatment. It was concluded that use of gum mastic tears and powdered was found to be safe and consequently use in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries.

Assassin bugs enhance prey capture with a sticky resin

Tool-use in animals is a complex and rare phenomenon, particularly in insects. Tool-use in assassin bugs has been suggested as several species apply adhesive plant resins to their body, which has been hypothesized to function in enhancing prey capture. Here, we staged predatory interactions of resin-deprived and resin-equipped assassin bugs (Gorareduvius sp.) and discovered that applying resin as a tool conveys a clear predatory advantage to the assassin bugs. Gorareduvius sp. can thus be considered a tool-user, and since this behaviour was present in all individuals, including newly hatched nymphs, tool-use can be considered to be stereotyped. Our study, along with others, suggests that, when compared with other insects, tool-use is disproportionately common within the assassin bugs.

Gastroprotective 2-(2-phenylethyl)chromone-sesquiterpene hybrids from the resinous wood of Aquilaria sinensis (Lour.) Gilg

Six previously unprecedented 2-(2-phenylethyl)chromone-sesquiterpene hybrids, aquisinenins A-F (1 - 6), were isolated from the resinous wood of Aquilaria sinensis by a LC-MS-guided fractionation procedure. Their structures were determined by extensive spectroscopic analysis (1D and 2D NMR, UV, IR, and HRMS) and experimental and computed ECD data. Compounds 1 - 6 were rare dimeric 2-(2-phenylethyl)chromone-sesquiterpene derivatives featuring 5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-2-(2-phenylethyl)chromone hybridized with different sesquiterpene (eudesmane/guaiane type) moieties via ester bond. Furthermore, all the isolated compounds were evaluated for their protective effects on taurocholic acid (TCA)-induced GES-1 cell injury. The most effective aquisinenin F (6) was used to elucidate the involved mechanism on protection against TCA-induced gastric mucosal damage. Our results indicated that 6 protected against gastric mucosal cell insult by downregulation of the ER stress triggered by TCA.

Comparison and evaluation of the effect of polymerization of resin-modified glass ionomer cement and dual-cure resin cement on the crystalline structure of dentin using synchrotron X-ray diffraction and its clinical correlation with postoperative sensitivity

Aim

To compare the effect of polymerization of resin-modified glass ionomer cement and dual-cure resin cement on the crystalline structure and to correlate it clinically with postoperative sensitivity.

Settings and Design

The evaluation of crystalline strain in the dentin slabs was done using Synchrotron X-ray diffraction. The post operative sensitivity was measured clinically using Schiff's sensitivity scale.

Materials and Methods

A total of 44 extracted and noncarious premolars were collected. Dentin slabs of dimensions 2 mm × 2 mm × 1.5 mm were prepared from the buccal aspect of the extracted teeth. The dentin slabs were then divided into two groups, Group A dual-cured resin cement and Group B resin-modified glass ionomer cement was applied. The dentin slabs first underwent synchrotron X-ray diffraction before and after the application of cement. Forty-two patients who were undergoing complete metal fixed prostheses on vital posterior abutments were selected. In this, 21 vital abutments were included in each group. Tooth preparation and fabrication of complete metal prostheses were done in the conventional manner and cemented using the 2 luting cements in Groups A and B, respectively. Dentinal hypersensitivity was measured using Schiff 's scale, postcementation, after 1 week and 1 month.

Statistical Analysis

Independent t-test was done for comparing the two cements in two cements in terms of lattice strain. Mann-Whitney U-test was done for comparing the cements with respect to dentinal hypersensitivity. Spearman's correlation coefficient was used for clinical correlation between dentinal hypersensitivity and crystalline strain.

Results

The lattice strain generated in dual cure resin cement was higher than that in resin-modified glass ionomer cement and was statistically significant. Postcementation hypersensitivity was higher in dual-cured resin than resin-modified glass ionomer cement but was not statistically significant in the follow-up visits. Spearman's correlation coefficients did not reveal any significant clinical correlation between lattice strain and dentinal hypersensitivity.

Conclusion

Dual cure resin cements generate greater lattice strain as compared to resin modified glass ionomer cements.

The assessment of internal adaptation and fracture resistance of glass ionomer and resin-based restorative materials applied after different caries removal techniques in primary teeth: an in-vitro study

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate the 3-dimensional (3D) internal adaptation (IA) and fracture resistance (FR) of compomer and glass ionomers applied after conventional caries removal to sound dentin (CCRSD) and selective caries removal to firm dentin (SCRFD) in in-vitro.

Methods

Thirty extracted primary molars were randomly assigned to three main groups (n = 10) as glass hybrid restorative (GHR) (Equia Forte® HT), conventional glass ionomer (CGIR) (Voco Ionofil Molar) and compomer (Dyract XP). Each group was randomly divided into two subgroups according to caries removal technique as CCRSD (n = 5) and SCRFD (n = 5). The restoration procedures were completed after caries removal (CCRSD or SCRFD) in all samples. Then, specimens were subjected to IA and FR tests. Data were analyzed with Student’s t, one-way ANOVA, and Kruskal Wallis-H tests. The correlation between IA and FR results was analyzed with a Pearson test. The statistical significance level was considered as 5%.

Results

While CCRSD showed superior IA results than SCRFD for all restorative materials (p < 0.05), no statistical difference was found between CCRSD and SCRFD in FR assessment (p > 0.05). In CCRSD, compomer showed superior results for IA and FR than glass ionomers (p < 0.05). In SCRFD, it was found no significant difference between the restoratives for IA (p > 0.05). However, compomer showed superior FR results than glass ionomers (p < 0.05). There was moderate negative correlation between internal voids and FR without statistically significant difference (r = −0.333, p = 0.072).

Conclusions

Despite the advantages of SCRFD, it was found to be less superior than CCRSD in IA assessment. Therefore, when SCRFD is preferred, a peripheral seal should be provided for ideal restorative treatment. On the other hand, compomer mostly showed superior results compared to others.

Biodegradable thermoset poly(lactic acid) resin containing phosphorus: Flame retardancy, mechanical properties and its soil degradation behavior

With the growing environmental awareness, poly(lactic acid) (PLA) is regarded as one of the most promising varieties of bio-based polyesters owing to its environment-friendly and biodegradable advantages. However, poor thermal stability and flammability disadvantages limit the applications of PLA. Herein, a series of biodegradable intrinsic flame-retardant thermoset PLA resins (DMMP-M4sPLA) were designed. DMMP-M4sPLA resins exhibit excellent flame retardancy, achieving UL 94 V-0 rating and limiting oxygen index (LOI) of 28.1 %-31.7 %. Meanwhile, the cured DMMP-M4sPLA resins show a high glass transition temperature and tensile strength. In addition, the resins demonstrate full degradation with no harmful degradation products. This work provides an advanced design strategy to create bio-based and biodegraded resins with superior flame retardant and mechanical performance, holding great potentials in the fields of aviation interior, automotive, etc.

A macroporous resin purification process to obtain food-grade phlorotannin-rich extracts with α-glucosidase inhibitory activity from Chilean brown seaweeds: An UHPLC-MSn profiling

An efficient macroporous resin purification process was designed to obtain food-grade phlorotannin-rich extracts from the seaweeds Durvillaea incurvata and Lessonia spicata. Phlorotannins were profiled to relate structures with the α-glucosidase inhibitory activity of the extracts. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry was applied for tentative identification. The best phlorotannin purification performance was achieved with HP-20 resin and elution with 80% v/v ethanol. This is the first study that demonstrates the effectivity of HP-20 resin for removing potentially toxic elements (As, Cd) from seaweed extracts. Fucols/phlorethols/fucophlorethols isomers up to 4 phloroglucinol units (PGU) were the most representative phlorotannins. High molecular weight species (11-21 PGU), although in low abundances, were detected in D. incurvata for the first time. Eckols, carmalols, fuhalols, phenolic acids, and flavonoids were also detected. Some extracts' potent α-glucosidase inhibitory activities were related to their high phlorotannin abundances, the presence of phlorotannins of a high degree of polymerization, and the phlorotannins class.

Development of strong, tough and flame-retardant phenolic resins by using Acacia mangium tannin-functionalized graphene nanoplatelets

Constructing an eco-friendly phenolic resin with high toughness, strength, and flame retardancy is of great significance and challengeable in the wood-based panels industry. Acacia mangium tannin (AMT), as a biological macromolecule, was decorated onto graphene through ball milling. The formed AMT-functionalized graphene nanoplatelets (AMT@GnPs) were used to replace 40 % phenol to greenly modify and reinforce phenolic resins. The fabricated phenolic resin (BGTPF) exhibited high wet bonding strength of 1.58 MPa, high tensile strength of 24.4 MPa, and large toughness of 0.35 MJ m^-3, which were 38.6 %, 27.7 %, and 75.0 % increments compared with the 1.14 MPa, 19.1 MPa and 0.20 MJ m^-3 of the neat AMT-modified phenolic resin (TPF). These improvements were attributable to the good compatibility and strong interfacial interactions between AMT@GnPs and the resin matrix, which promoted the transfer and dissipation of load energy. The prepared BGTPF resin showed good flame retardancy and high thermal stability. The peak HRR decreased from 15.5 for TPF to 6.9 W/g for BGTPF. This work presents a new, low-cost, and sustainable strategy to construct mechanically strong, tough, and flame-retardant tannin-based phenolic resins for many promising applications such as engineered wood-based products.

Flame-Retardant Cycloaliphatic Epoxy Systems with High Dielectric Performance for Electronic Packaging Materials

Flame-retardant cycloaliphatic epoxy systems have long been studied; however, the research suffers from slow and unsatisfactory advances. In this work, we synthesized a kind of phosphorus-containing difunctional cycloaliphatic epoxide (called BCEP). Then, triglycidyl isocyanurate (TGIC) was mixed with BCEP to achieve epoxy systems that are rich in phosphorus and nitrogen elements, which were cured with 4-methylhexahydrobenzene anhydride (MeHHPA) to obtain a series of flame-retardant epoxy resins. Curing behaviors, flame retardancy, thermal behaviors, dielectric performance, and the chemical degradation behaviors of the cured epoxy system were investigated. BCEP-TGIC systems showed a high curing activity, and they can be efficiently cured, in which the incorporation of TGIC decreased the curing activity of the resin. As the ratio of BCEP and TGIC was 1:3, the cured resin (BCEP₁-TGIC₃) showed a relatively good flame retardancy with a limiting oxygen index value of 25.2%. In the cone calorimeter test, they presented a longer time to ignition and a lower heat release than the commercially available cycloaliphatic epoxy resins (ERL-4221). BCEP-TGIC systems presented good thermal stability, as the addition of TGIC delayed the thermal weight loss of the resin. BCEP₁-TGIC₃ had high dielectric performance and outperformed ERL-4221 over a frequency range of 1 HZ to 1 MHz. BCEP₁-TGIC₃ could achieve degradation under mild conditions in an alkali methanol/water solution. Benefiting from the advances, BCEP-TGIC systems have potential applications as electronic packaging materials in electrical and electronic fields.

Commiphora wildii Merxm. Essential Oil: Natural Heptane Source and Co-Product Valorization

As an alternative to fossil volatile hydrocarbon solvents used nowadays in perfumery, investigation on essential oil of Commiphora wildii Merxm. oleo gum resin as a source of heptane is reported here. Heptane, representing up to 30 wt-% of this oleo gum resin, was successfully isolated from the C. wildii essential oil, using an innovative double distillation process. Isolated heptane was then used as a solvent in order to extract some noble plants of perfumery. It was found that extracts obtained with this solvent were more promising in terms of sensory analysis than those obtained from fossil-based heptane. In addition, in order to valorize the essential oil depleted from heptane, chemical composition of this oil was found to obtain, and potential biological activity properties were studied. A total of 172 different compounds were identified by GC-MS in the remaining oil. In vitro tests-including hyaluronidase, tyrosinase, antioxidant, elastase and lipoxygenase, as well as inhibitory tests against two yeasts and 21 bacterial strains commonly found on the skin-were carried out. Overall, bioassays results suggest this heptane-depleted essential oil is a promising active ingredient for cosmetic applications.

Effects of particle size on the adsorption behavior and antifouling performance of magnetic resins

Adequately choosing the physicochemical characteristics of adsorbent is crucial in improving its adsorption performance. This work investigated the effect of particle size of magnetic resins on adsorption behaviors of tetracycline (TC) and their antifouling performance. Smaller particle size resin Q150 (10-30 μm) shows notably faster TC adsorption kinetics when compared resins with hundreds of microns (Q100 and Q1). Simulated by Weber-Morris equation, the film diffusion time of Q150 was only 20 min, 2-25 times faster than that of other resins. At this adsorption time, Q150 can reach more than 80% of the maximum adsorption, and the ring-like fluorescence images indicate that the molecules are accumulated on the external surface. Q150 also shows better reusability and antifouling performance over Q100 and Q1. After 20 adsorption-desorption cycles, the adsorption capacity of Q150 at 20 min only decreases 9.7%. The presence of tannic acid also only slightly decreases the adsorption capacity. The faster adsorption kinetics and the superior antifouling performance of Q150 make it a promising adsorbent in future use.

Continuous Countercurrent Chromatography in Protein Purification

Continuous countercurrent chromatography can be applied for both capture and polishing steps in the downstream processing of biopharmaceuticals. This chapter explains the concept of countercurrent operation, focusing on twin-column processes and how it can be used to alleviate the trade-offs of traditional batch chromatography with respect to resin utilization/productivity and yield/purity. CaptureSMB and MCSGP, the main twin-column continuous countercurrent chromatography processes, are explained, and the metrics by which they are compared to single-column chromatography are identified. Practical hints for process design and application examples are provided. Finally, regulatory aspects, scale-up, and UV-based process control are covered.

Evaluation of dimensional stability, compressive resistance, and detail reproduction of thermoplastic resin (BDIMPRESS), elastomeric and composite bite registration material: An in vitro study

Aim

The fabrication of an accurate prosthesis depends mainly on precise recording of the maxillo-mandibular relationship of the patient and transferring it to the articulator. BDIMPRESS is a new thermoplastic material that has been proposed as a potential material to be used as an inter-occlusal registration, but there has been no literature evidence regarding its application as a bite registration. The main purpose of this study is to evaluate and compare the dimensional stability, detail reproduction, and compressive resistance of new interocclusal recording material with other two commonly used materials.

Settings and Design

In Vitro Comparative study.

Materials and Methods

The study was conducted according to ADA Specification standards of testing for dimensional stability, detail reproduction and compressive resistance. Specimens were prepared for three different materials (Thermoplastic resin, Polyvinyl siloxane, and Bis- acrylic) with 12 samples each.

Statistical Analysis Used

One way ANOVA was done for statistical analysis.

Results

Polyvinyl siloxane material was dimensionally stable (mean at 1 hr: 24.928 mm; 24 hrs: 24.919 mm & 48 hrs: 24.912 mm) followed by Bis- acrylic material (mean at 1 hr: 24.851 mm; 24 hrs: 24.825 mm & 48 hrs: 24.815 mm). On one way ANOVA, strong significance was observed between groups (P = 0.00). Thermoplastic resin showed higher amount of detail reproduction with 10 (out of 12 samples) samples showing satisfactory results. While bis- acrylic material showed the least compressive resistance (Strain %: 0.484%; Displacement- 0.0990mm). One-way ANOVA showed presence of significance between the groups (P = 0.024).

Conclusion

Polyvinyl siloxane showed superior dimensional stability, thermoplastic resin showed better detail reproduction and bis- acrylic showed high resistance to compression over other materials.

Multi‑objective optimization of nitrile rubber and thermosets modified bituminous mix using desirability approach

A variety of materials, including waste and rubber products, have been used in road construction to improve the performance of bituminous pavements. The present investigation is focused on modifying bitumen using Nitrile rubber (NBR) with different thermosets namely Bakelite (B), Furan Resin (FR), and Epoxy resin (ER). The emphasis of the problem is to arrive at a mix to achieve maximum Marshall Stability (MS) and minimum flow value of Modified Bituminous Concrete. Taguchi DOE technique has been used to design the experiments using Minitab software. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Multi-objective optimization has been performed using the desirability approach in Design expert software. ANOVA analysis predicts that NBR, B, ER, and FR are the major significant parameters for Marshall Stability (MS) and Flow Value (FV). It has also been analyzed from SEM and EDS images of modified bitumen that sample S1 (5% NBR, 10% Bakelite, 10% FR, 2.5% ER) has a fine surface with small pores as compared to sample S34 (10% NBR, 0% Bakelite 10% FR, 2.5% ER). Multi-optimization results suggested the optimal conditions are achieved at NBR-7.6%, Bakelite-4.8%, FR-2.5%, and ER-2.6% for MS and FV. The maximum MS is 14.84 KN and the minimum FV is 2.84 mm is obtained using optimum conditions. To validate the optimization results, the confirmation runs have been conducted, and obtained results are within 5% error with optimal conditions.

Curcuma longa and Boswellia serrata extract combination for hand osteoarthritis: an open-label pre-post trial

CONTEXT

Osteoarthritis (OA) of the hand is a common painful musculoskeletal disorder with no cure. There is a need for an efficient and safe treatment to relieve OA pain.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects of a Curcuma longa and Boswellia serrata food supplement in addition to standard care on hand pain.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This open-label, non-controlled, post-observational study was based on 232 patients suffering from hand pain with or without joint deformity. Patients received a medical prescription for a three-month treatment with a food supplement containing 89 mg of C. longa dry extract, 120 mg of B. serrata resin, and 1.8 µg vitamin D. Pain was evaluated on a 10-point visual analog scale (VAS). The number of painful hand joints, patient satisfaction, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs intake, and side effects were also recorded.

RESULTS

Baseline pain intensity (regression coefficient ± SE: -0.19 ± 0.01, p < 0.0001) and the number of painful joints (regression coefficient ± SE: -0.022 ± 0.0029, p < 0.0001) decreased significantly throughout the 3 months treatment period. NSAIDs intake and topical drug application were significantly decreased by 64% (p < 0.0001) and 79% (p < 0.0001) after 12 weeks, respectively. Only 3/239 (1.3%) patients reported side effects probably related to the product. 80.3% were satisfied with the treatment and 75.5% wished to continue treatment.

CONCLUSION

This is the first clinical trial showing that C. longa and B. serrata resin can relieve symptoms in patients with hand osteoarthritis. The study provides useful information for the design of a clinical trial including a broader population.

Greener Cleavage of Protected Peptide Fragments from Sieber Amide Resin

Following the successful introduction of two benign solvents for cleaving protected acid peptide fragments from 2-chlorotrityl chloride (2-CTC) resin, there is a need to green the cleavage process for obtaining protected peptide amide fragments. In this work, p-xylene and toluene are introduced as greener alternates to dichloromethane (DCM) for preparing protected peptide amide fragments from a Sieber amide resin. The N-dealkylation is a demanding chemical reaction, requiring that the cleavage protocol be optimised to ensure complete cleavage from the resin. After a 30 min reaction time, only 66 % of the final peptide product was retrieved even with the conventional dichloromethane solvent. Therefore, 120 min was considered sufficient to fully cleave the peptide from the Sieber amide resin. This work reaffirms the fact that greening strategies are far from detrimental, with green alternatives often outperforming their replaced counterparts.

Fast and Reversible Photoresponsive Self-Assembly Behavior of Rosin-Based Amphiphilic Polymers

Designing stimulus-responsive amphiphilic polymers with a fast photoresponsive self-assembly behavior remains a challenge. Two series of rosin-terminated and azobenzene-terminated amphiphilic polymers (PAM_n and PMA_n) with fast and reversible photoresponsive properties were prepared using rosin-based azobenzene groups and polyethylene glycol, respectively. Under 5-10 s of UV irradiation, the polymers showed trans-to-cis isomerization and reached a photosteady state. For the PAM_n polymer, the absorbance of the absorption peak at 325 nm recovered to more than 95% of the initial value under visible light for 5-10 s, whereas that of the PMA_n polymer recovered completely. Notably, the PAM_n and PMA_n polymers initially self-assembled to vesicles or spherical micelles, and various morphological changes were achieved by manipulating UV irradiation time, with the initial morphology again recovered under dark conditions or visible-light irradiation. Remarkably, vesicles of the PAM₃₄ and PMA₃₄ polymers presented an intermediate open-vesicle state before being completely deformed under UV irradiation because of the existence of a π-π interaction. Finally, the ability of PAM₃₄ and PMA₃₄ polymer vesicles to perform the controlled release and reversible loading of a fluorescent probe was evaluated.

Iron Oxide Powder as Responsible for the Generation of Industrial Polypropylene Waste and as a Co-Catalyst for the Pyrolysis of Non-Additive Resins

For the synthesis of polymeric resins, it is of great importance to review the raw materials and the equipment to be used to avoid the presence of compounds that may affect the effectiveness of the polymerization and the characteristics of the plastic to be obtained. Iron oxide is a compound that can be present in reactors after maintenance due to the techniques used and the cleaning of this equipment, and it can affect the characteristics of the resins, reducing their quality. In this study, the presence of FeO in different concentrations was evaluated to determine its effects on the properties and pyrolysis of polypropylene resins by using X-ray refraction to determine the elements of the samples, evaluating thermal degradation by TGA, the variation in molecular weight by measuring the MFI, and the compounds obtained from pyrolysis by chromatography. The results showed that the thermal degradation decreased as the FeO concentration increased, while for the MFI, the relationship was directly proportional. The evaluation of the compounds obtained from pyrolysis showed an increase in the production of alcohols, alkynes, ketones, and acids, and a decrease in alkanes and alkenes, showing that FeO affects the properties of polypropylene and the compounds that are produced during pyrolysis.

Shilajit extract reduces oxidative stress, inflammation, and bone loss to dose-dependently preserve bone mineral density in postmenopausal women with osteopenia: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Accelerated bone loss associated with aging and estrogen withdrawal is mediated in part by increased oxidative stress and inflammation.

OBJECTIVE

Investigate dietary supplementation with a standardized aqueous extract of shilajit with clinically demonstrated antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and collagen-promoting activity on attenuating bone loss in postmenopausal women with osteopenia.

DESIGN

Sixty postmenopausal women aged 45 - 65 years with osteopenia were randomized to receive 1 of 3 treatments daily for 48 weeks: (1) placebo, (2) 250 mg shilajit extract, or (3) 500 mg shilajit extract. Bone mineral density (BMD) of the lumbar spine (LS) and femoral neck (FN) were measured at weeks 0, 24, and 48, and circulating markers of bone turnover (CTX-1, BALP, RANKL, OPG), oxidative stress (MDA, GSH), and inflammation (hsCRP) at weeks 0, 12, 24, and 48.

RESULTS

BMD of both the LS and FN progressively decreased in women receiving placebo but was dose-dependently attenuated with shilajit extract supplementation, resulting in significantly increased percentage changes from baseline in BMD at 24- and 48-weeks in both supplemented groups compared to placebo (p < 0.001). CTX-1, BALP, and RANKL decreased, whereas OPG increased, in both groups supplemented with the shilajit extract, but not in the placebo group, resulting in significantly decreased or increased percentage changes from baseline, respectively. MDA was significantly decreased (p < 0.001) and GSH was significantly increased (p < 0.001) in both supplemented groups compared to placebo from week 12 for the duration of the study. Progressive reductions in hsCRP were observed in both supplemented groups, resulting in significantly decreased percentage changes from baseline in supplemented women compared to placebo (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Daily supplementation with this shilajit extract supports BMD in postmenopausal women with osteopenia in part by attenuating the increased bone turnover, inflammation and oxidative stress that coincides with estrogen deficiency in this population at increased risk for osteoporosis and bone fractures.

Identification of Genes and Metabolic Pathways Involved in Resin Yield in Masson Pine by Integrative Analysis of Transcriptome, Proteome and Biochemical Characteristics

Masson pine (Pinus massoniana L.) is one of the most important resin-producing tree species in southern China. However, the molecular regulatory mechanisms of resin yield are still unclear in masson pine. In this study, an integrated analysis of transcriptome, proteome, and biochemical characteristics from needles of masson pine with the high and common resin yield was investigated. The results showed that chlorophyll a (Chl a), chlorophyll b (Chl b), total chlorophyll (Chl C), carotenoids (Car), glucose (Glu), gibberellin A9 (GA9), gibberellin A15 (GA15), and gibberellin A53 (GA53) were significantly increased, whereas fructose (Fru), jasmonic acid (JA), jasmonoyl-L-isoleucine (JA-ILE), gibberellin A1 (GA1), gibberellin A3 (GA3), gibberellin A19 (GA19), and gibberellin A24 (GA24) were significantly decreased in the high resin yield in comparison with those in the common one. The integrated analysis of transcriptome and proteome showed that chlorophyll synthase (chlG), hexokinase (HXK), sucrose synthase (SUS), phosphoglycerate kinase (PGK), dihydrolipoamide dehydrogenase (PDH), dihydrolipoamide succinyltransferase (DLST), 12-oxophytodienoic acid reductase (OPR), and jasmonate O-methyltransferases (JMT) were consistent at the transcriptomic, proteomic, and biochemical levels. The pathways of carbohydrate metabolism, terpenoid biosynthesis, photosynthesis, and hormone biosynthesis may play crucial roles in the regulation of resin yield, and some key genes involved in these pathways may be candidates that influence the resin yield. These results provide insights into the molecular regulatory mechanisms of resin yield and also provide candidate genes that can be applied for the molecular-assisted selection and breeding of high resin-yielding masson pine.

Accelerating effect of Shilajit on osteogenic property of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs)

BACKGROUND

Shilajit has been widely used remedy for treating a numerous of illness such as bone defects in Iran traditional folk medicine since hundreds of years ago. The aim of the present study was to explore the effect of Shilajit on the osteogenic differentiation of human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) in two- (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) cultures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

ASCs were seeded in 3D 1% alginate (Alg) hydrogel with or without Shilajit (500 µg/mL) and compared with 2D cultures. Then, characterization was done using electron microscopy (SEM)/energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, alizarin red staining and Raman confocal microscopy.

RESULTS

Adding Shilajit had no impact on the Alg scaffold degradability. In the 3D hydrogel and in the presence of osteogenic medium (OM), Shilajit acted as enhancer to increase ALP activity and also showed osteoinductive property in the absence of OM compared to the 2D matched groups at all time points (days 7 and 21 both P = 0.0006, for 14 days P = 0.0006 and P = 0.002, respectively). In addition, calcium deposition was significantly increased in the cultures exposed to Shilajit compared to 2D matched groups on days 14 (P < 0.0001) and 21 (P = 0.0003 and P = 0.003, respectively). In both 3D and 2D conditions, Shilajit induced osteogenic differentiation, but Shilajit/Alg combination starts osteogenic differentiation in a short period of time.

CONCLUSION

As Shilajit accelerates the differentiation of ASCs into the osteoblasts, without changing the physical properties of the Alg hydrogel, this combination may pave the way for more promising remedies considering bone defects.

Biological Activity of Copaiba in Damage to the Alveolar Bone in a Model of Periodontitis Induced in Rats

Several studies have investigated the effects of natural products in the treatment of diseases. Traditional Amazonian populations commonly use copaiba due to its well-known anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and healing properties. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of systemic administration of copaiba oleoresin (Copaifera reticulata Ducke) on ligature-induced periodontitis in rats. To do so, 21 adult rats were divided into three groups (n = 7 each): a control group, ligature-induced periodontitis group, and ligature-induced periodontitis group treated with copaiba oleoresin (200 mg/kg/day). The ligature remained from day 0 to 14, and the copaiba oleoresin was administered via oral gavage during the last seven days. On day 14, the animals were euthanized, and mandibles were collected for histopathological evaluation and microcomputed tomography analysis. Our data showed that the administration of copaiba considerably reduced the inflammatory profile. Moreover, copaiba oleoresin limited alveolar bone loss, increased trabecular thickness and bone-to-tissue volume ratio, and decreased the number of trabeculae compared with those of the untreated experimental periodontitis group. Our findings provide pioneering evidence that supports the potential of copaiba oleoresin in reducing periodontitis-induced alveolar bone damage in rats.

Rapid Determination and Quantification of Nutritional and Poisonous Metals in Vastly Consumed Ayurvedic Herbal Medicine (Rejuvenator Shilajit) by Humans Using Three Advanced Analytical Techniques

‏Shilajit is used commonly as Ayurvedic medicine worldwide which is Rasayana herbo-mineral substance and consumed to restore the energetic balance and to prevent diseases like cognitive disorders and Alzheimer. Locally, Shilajit is applied for patients diagnosed with bone fractures. For safety of the patients, the elemental analysis of Shilajit is imperative to evaluate its nutritional quality as well as contamination from heavy metals. The elemental composition of Shilajit was conducted using three advanced analytical techniques (LIBS, ICP, and EDX). For the comparative studies, the two Shilajit kinds mostly sold globally produced in India and Pakistan were collected. Our main focus is to highlight nutritional eminence and contamination of heavy metals to hinge on Shilajit therapeutic potential. In this work, laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) was applied for qualitative and quantitative analysis of the Shilajit. Our LIBS analysis revealed that Shilajit samples composed of several elements like Ca, S, K, Mg, Al, Na, Sr, Fe, P, Si, Mn, Ba, Zn, Ni, B, Cr, Co, Pb, Cu, As, Hg, Se, and Ti. Indian and Pakistani Shilajits were highly enriched with Ca, S, and K nutrients and contained Al, Sr, Mn, Ba, Zn, Ni, B, Cr, Pb, As, and Hg toxins in amounts that exceeded the standard permissible limit. Even though the content of most elements was comparable among both Shilajits, nutrients, and toxins, in general, were accentuated more in Indian Shilajit with the sole detection of Hg and Ti. The elemental quantification was done using self-developed calibration-free laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (CF-LIBS) method, and LIBS results are in well agreement with the concentrations determined by standard ICP-OES/MS method. To verify our results by LIBS and ICP-OES/MS techniques, EDX spectroscopy was also conducted which confirmed the presence above mentioned elements. This work is highly significant for creating awareness among people suffering due to overdose of this product and save many human lives.