Effect of silver diamine fluoride on the longevity of the bonding properties to caries-affected dentine

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to evaluate the adhesive properties in dentine after the application of silver diamine fluoride (SDF) on carious dentine lesions immediately and after 2 years of water storage.

METHODS

96 human molars used were subjected to artificial dentine caries production, and then randomly divided into 12 experimental groups according to 1. application of an SDF solution (carious dentine lesion without SDF treatment [control], with 12 % silver diamine fluoride [SDF 12 %] or 38 % silver diamine fluoride [SDF 38 %]); 2. Universal adhesives (Clearfil Universal Bond Quick [CUQ] and Single Bond Universal [SBU]); 3. adhesive strategy (etch-and-rinse [ER] and self-etch [SE]). After restoration, the specimens were sectioned and submitted to the microtensile bond strength test (μTBS) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry analysis (SEM/EDX). All tests were performed immediately and after 2 years of water storage. Data from the μTBS were analyzed using four-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (α = 0.05).

RESULTS

Only the interaction of factors 'SDF' vs 'time' was significant (p = 0.03). After 2 years of storage, the groups where SDF was applied showed higher μTBS values compared to the control group. No significant decrease in μTBS values was observed for SBU when comparing immediate and 2-year results, but a significant reduction in μTBS values was observed after 2 years for CUQ.

CONCLUSION

Independent of the adhesive strategy, the use of SDF may be a promising alternative to maintain the bonding of universal adhesives to carious dentinal lesions.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

This study may clarify and support clinicians regarding the longevity of resin-based restoration in caries-affected dentine treated with silver diamine fluoride.

Demographic structure across all known populations of the rheophyte Dyckia brevifolia Baker (Bromeliaceae) in the Itajaí-Açu River, Southern Brazil

Understanding the distribution and demographic structure of populations is essential for species conservation. In Brazil, the rheophyte group has been greatly affected by the construction of hydroelectric dams. All know populations of Dyckia brevifolia Baker along Itajaí-Açu River were studied. The plants were classified as seedlings, immature or reproductive rosettes. In addition, the number of dead rosettes, except for seedlings, was determined in five populations of D. brevifolia. The total number of rosettes per population ranged from 273 to 7,185, totaling 30,443 rosettes, and 1,789 seedlings (5.9%). Only 2.4% of rosettes occurred isolated and 97.6% occurred clumped into 2,254 clumps. The number of rosettes per clump ranged from two to 339 rosettes. The percentage of reproductive rosettes per population ranged from 7.8 to 26.7%. The correlation between the number of clumps or between the total number of rosettes and the area of occupation was significant and positive (r = 0.82; P < 0.05). The production of offshoots (1-4) occurred on immature and reproductive rosettes. Dyckia brevifolia has herbivory by Hydrochaeris hydrochaeris (capybara). These rosettes die or often resprout, emitting from 1 to 20 shoots. The populations did not present a pattern of distribution of rosettes in the diametric classes, but in all populations a decrease in the number of rosettes can be observed in the classes with the largest diameter. The small area of occupation (9,185 m2) showed high environmental specificity and vulnerable to habitat loss and environmental changes. Therefore, the maintenance these sites is essential for the long-term conservation of D. brevifolia.

Dietary (poly)phenols as modulators of the biophysical properties in endothelial cell membranes: its impact on nitric oxide bioavailability in hypertension

Hypertension is a major contributor to premature death, owing to the associated increased risk of damage to the heart, brain and kidneys. Although hypertension is manageable by medication and lifestyle changes, the risk increases with age. In an increasingly aged society, the incidence of hypertension is escalating, and is expected to increase the prevalence of (cerebro)vascular events and their associated mortality. Adherence to plant-based diets improves blood pressure and vascular markers in individuals with hypertension. Food flavonoids have an inhibitory effect towards angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE1) and although this effect is greatly diminished upon metabolization, their microbial metabolites have been found to improve endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) activity. Considering the transmembrane location of ACE1 and eNOS, the ability of (poly)phenols to interact with membrane lipids modulate the cell membrane's biophysical properties and impact on nitric oxide (· NO) synthesis and bioavailability, remain poorly studied. Herein, we provide an overview of the current knowledge on the lipid remodeling of endothelial membranes with age, its impact on the cell membrane's biophysical properties and · NO permeability across the endothelial barrier. We also discuss the potential of (poly)phenols and other plant-based compounds as key players in hypertension management, and address the caveats and challenges in adopted methodologies.

Color Match of a Universal-shade Composite Resin for Restoration of Non-carious Cervical Lesions: An Equivalence Randomized Clinical Trial

PURPOSE

The objective of this double-blind, split-mouth, randomized clinical trial was to evaluate the color match of a single-shade composite resin Admira Fusion X-tra in comparison with a multi-shade composite resin Admira Fusion in non-carious cervical lesion restorations (NCCLs).

METHODS AND MATERIALS

One hundred and twenty restorations were performed on NCCLs with two restorative materials (n=60). After prophylaxis, the teeth were isolated with a rubber dam, and one universal adhesive was applied in the selective enamel etching strategy. For both groups, the restorations were inserted incrementally and light-cured. The values of the coordinates L*, a*, and b* in the cervical third before vs after the restorations and cervical vs middle third after the restorations were evaluated using a digital spectrophotometer after the coordinate values were used to calculate the CIEDE (ΔE00). The restorations were evaluated at baseline and after 7 days of clinical performance according to the FDI criteria. Statistical analysis was performed using the Chi-square test for all parameters. Color change was analyzed by Student t-test for paired samples (α=0.05).

RESULTS

All restorations were evaluated after 7 days. Regarding the color measurement, no significant difference was observed when Admira Fusion was compared to Admira Fusion X-tra for any of the comparisons performed (p>0.05). However, the values of ΔE00 in the cervical third before vs after the restorations were higher when compared with ΔE00 observed when the cervical vs middle third after restorations were compared. All restorations received the score "clinically very good" after 7 days for all outcomes, including the subjective color match, when evaluated for FDI criterion.

CONCLUSIONS

The single-shade composite resin used achieves the same color match when compared to a multi-shade composite resin after 7 days in NCCLs.

Prolonged application time effects on universal adhesives in non-carious cervical lesions: An 18-month split mouth randomized clinical trial

OBJECTIVE

This double-blind, split mouth randomized clinical trial aimed to assess the clinical performance of Clearfil Universal Bond Quick (CBUq) universal adhesive under different application times (no waiting and waiting) compared to Clearfil SE Bond adhesive in non-carious cervical lesions (NCCLs) over 18 months.

METHODS

One hundred and eighty-three restorations were distributed randomly into three groups based on the adhesive system and waiting time: CUBq without waiting time (CUBq-NW), CUBq with a 20 s waiting time (CUBq-W), and CSE with a 20 s waiting time. After placement, restorations were evaluated after 18 months using the International Dental Federation (FDI) and United States Public Health Service (USPHS) criteria. Statistical analyses involved Friedman repeated measures analysis of variance and Wilcoxon tests, with a significance level set at 5 %.

RESULTS

Over the 18-month period, no restorations were lost across the tested groups. Marginal adaptation evaluation indicated minor discrepancies in 21 restorations (8 CUBq-NW, 6 CUBq-W, and 7 CSE). There were no significant differences observed among the three groups following the 18-month clinical assessment (p > 0.05). Only two restorations showed marginal discoloration after 18 months (1 CUBq-NW and 1 CSE).

CONCLUSIONS

The application of Clearfil Universal Bond Quick using either the "waiting" or "no-waiting" technique exhibited excellent clinical results in NCCLs during the 18-month follow-up period, demonstrating comparable performance to Clearfil SE Bond in all assessed outcomes.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

The findings suggest that the new universal adhesive applied using the no-waiting technique demonstrates promising clinical performance when compared to conventional application methods.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov identifer RBR-69p7mpr.

End-to-End Solution for Analog Gauge Monitoring Using Computer Vision in an IoT Platform

The emergence of Industry 4.0 and 5.0 technologies has enabled the digital transformation of various processes and the integration of sensors with the internet. Despite these strides, many industrial sectors still rely on visual inspection of physical processes, especially those employing analog gauges. This method of monitoring introduces the risk of human errors and inefficiencies. Automating these processes has the potential, not only to boost productivity for companies, but also potentially reduce risks for workers. Therefore, this paper proposes an end-to-end solution to digitize analog gauges and monitor them using computer vision through integrating them into an IoT architecture, to tackle these problems. Our prototype device has been designed to capture images of gauges and transmit them to a remote server, where computer vision algorithms analyze the images and obtain gauge readings. These algorithms achieved adequate robustness and accuracy for industrial environments, with an average relative error of 0.95%. In addition, the gauge data were seamlessly integrated into an IoT platform leveraging computer vision and cloud computing technologies. This integration empowers users to create custom dashboards for real-time gauge monitoring, while also enabling them to set thresholds, alarms, and warnings, as needed. The proposed solution was tested and validated in a real-world industrial scenario, demonstrating the solution's potential to be implemented in a large-scale setting to serve workers, reduce costs, and increase productivity.

An ethics framework for social listening and infodemic management

Issue

Successful response to an infodemic requires social listening and integrated analysis to produce infodemic insights by identifying questions, concerns, information voids and circulating narratives including health misinformation. There is currently a wide variation in social listening and infodemic insights generation practices, and a lack of frameworks to be applied on ethical values and standards.

Description of the problem

In the context of infodemic management, infodemic insights are generated based on social listening, health system and data from online and offline sources. Where there is a difference between health guidance and behaviors during an emergency, rapid infodemic insights can help understand the underlying drivers of this divergence. Integrated analysis of this data informs infodemic management strategies generate insights that advise a wide range of public health interventions. Present ethical challenges influence data processing and use.

Results

The World Health Organization (WHO) convened a group of experts to develop an ethical framework for social listening and infodemic management. It will guide health authorities and practitioners in planning and setting up infodemic insights teams and implementing infodemic management activities. To support the deliberation of the WHO expert group, a systematic review has been conducted to understand present ethical concerns and challenges.

Lessons

Infodemic management strategies raise ethical concerns that relate to data control, commercialization, transparency, accountability and implications. Power and power imbalances, human rights, privacy and dignity, trust and respect for cultural practices may arise during data collection, analysis, interpretation, and intervention design. Without proper ethical oversight and guidance, the implementation of infodemic management strategies could harm individuals and communities, erode trust, and undermine the effectiveness of responses to a public health emergency.

Key messages

• Social listening and infodemic management by health authorities require consideration of ethical principles and guidance.

• WHO ethics guidance will help public health authorities establish infodemic management practices, policies and strategies.

Bleaching Gels Used After 1 Week of Mixing: Efficacy, Hydrogen Peroxide Penetration, and Physical-chemical Properties

OBJECTIVES

This in vitro study aimed to evaluate the bleaching efficacy (BE), hydrogen peroxide penetration into the pulp chamber (HPP), and physical-chemical properties (concentration, pH, and viscosity) of in-office bleaching gels immediately and after 1 week of mixing.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

We randomly divided 49 premolars into seven groups: control (no bleaching) and the following in-office bleaching (Opalescence Boost 40%, Total Blanc One Step 35%, and Whiteness HP Blue 35%) applied at two storage times: immediately and after 1 week. We evaluated the BE using a digital spectrophotometer and the HPP through UV-Vis spectroscopy. We measured the initial concentration, pH, and viscosity using titration, a Digital pH meter and Rheometer, respectively. For statistical analysis, we used a twoway analysis of variance and Tukey and Dunnet tests (α=0.05).

RESULTS

We observed higher BE and HPP for Opalescence Boost and Total Blanc One Step after 1 week of mixing than for Whiteness HP Blue (p<0.001). We observed a significantly lower initial concentration for Whiteness HP Blue 1 week after mixing compared to immediately (p=0.00001). All bleaching gels showed a decrease in pH after 1 week of mixing (p=0.00003). However, Total Blanc One Step had a lower pH at both evaluation times (p<0.001). Only Opalescence Boost maintained viscosity 1 week after mixing.

CONCLUSIONS

Opalescence Boost was the only bleaching gel able to keep bleaching efficacy, with the same characteristics of permeability and physical- chemical properties after 1 week of mixing.

Caregiver Quality of Life: Satisfaction and Burnout

Informal caregivers (ICs) of cancer patients play a crucial role in health care. Several of the challenges they face can affect their quality of life (QoL). This cross-sectional study explored role of burnout and caregiving satisfaction in their relationship to QoL. Portuguese ICs of adult cancer patients (N = 92) answered a sociodemographic and caregiving questionnaire, the WHOQOL-SRPB BREF, assessing physical, psychological, social, environmental, and spiritual QoL domains; the Maslach Burnout Interview, assessing the dimensions of depersonalization, emotional exhaustion, and personal accomplishment; and a Visual Analogic Scale on caregiving satisfaction. We tested correlations and a parallel mediation model for each domain of QoL, considering burnout dimensions as possible mediators between satisfaction and QoL domains. Our results show that satisfaction, burnout dimensions, and almost all QoL domains are correlated. Together, burnout dimensions seem to mediate the relationship between caregiving satisfaction and psychological, environmental, and spiritual QoL. Satisfaction had a significant indirect effect solely through emotional exhaustion on psychological QoL (β = 1.615, 95% BCI [0.590; 2.849]), environmental QoL (β = 0.904, 95% BCI [0.164; 1.876]), and spiritual QoL (β = 0.816, 95% BCI [0.019; 1.792]). It seems essential for mental health professionals to address these dimensions when providing support to an IC.

Pathogenic SCN2A variants cause early-stage dysfunction in patient-derived neurons

Pathogenic heterozygous variants in SCN2A, which encodes the neuronal sodium channel NaV1.2, cause different types of epilepsy or intellectual disability (ID)/autism without seizures. Previous studies using mouse models or heterologous systems suggest that NaV1.2 channel gain-of-function typically causes epilepsy, whereas loss-of-function leads to ID/autism. How altered channel biophysics translate into patient neurons remains unknown. Here, we investigated iPSC-derived early-stage cortical neurons from ID patients harboring diverse pathogenic SCN2A variants [p.(Leu611Valfs*35); p.(Arg937Cys); p.(Trp1716*)] and compared them with neurons from an epileptic encephalopathy (EE) patient [p.(Glu1803Gly)] and controls. ID neurons consistently expressed lower NaV1.2 protein levels. In neurons with the frameshift variant, NaV1.2 mRNA and protein levels were reduced by ~ 50%, suggesting nonsense-mediated decay and haploinsufficiency. In other ID neurons, only protein levels were reduced implying NaV1.2 instability. Electrophysiological analysis revealed decreased sodium current density and impaired action potential (AP) firing in ID neurons, consistent with reduced NaV1.2 levels. In contrast, epilepsy neurons displayed no change in NaV1.2 levels or sodium current density, but impaired sodium channel inactivation. Single-cell transcriptomics identified dysregulation of distinct molecular pathways including inhibition of oxidative phosphorylation in neurons with SCN2A haploinsufficiency and activation of calcium signaling and neurotransmission in epilepsy neurons. Together, our patient iPSC-derived neurons reveal characteristic sodium channel dysfunction consistent with biophysical changes previously observed in heterologous systems. Additionally, our model links the channel dysfunction in ID to reduced NaV1.2 levels and uncovers impaired AP firing in early-stage neurons. The altered molecular pathways may reflect a homeostatic response to NaV1.2 dysfunction and can guide further investigations.

Some Myths in Dentin Bonding: An Evidence-Based Perspective

Laboratory investigations are essential models responsible for science development. However, laboratory discoveries must be confirmed in a clinical environment where many known and unknown variables and complex mechanisms are involved. Using conclusions from laboratory studies to make clinical recommendations can lead to widespread "unreliable truths" or so-called myths in any field of knowledge. These myths may increase the costs (financial and time) or even cause harm (side effects) that would be unnecessary, given that the current protocol or conduct was previously evaluated in a more complex and complete clinical setting. This article will discuss certain myths in dentin bonding that may influence clinical decision-making, bringing some principles of evidence-based practice to allow a more critical evaluation of the literature findings.

Evaluation of Different Protocols with 4% Hydrogen Peroxide in Bleaching Efficacy and Tooth Sensitivity - A Single-blind, Randomized Clinical Trial

OBJECTIVES

To compare the bleaching efficacy and tooth sensitivity (TS) of 4% hydrogen peroxide (HP) in adults using a continuous or fractioned protocol.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

A single-blind randomized controlled trial with a parallel design was conducted. Eighty-six patients with upper canines A2 or darker were submitted to bleaching with 4% HP gel for three weeks after random allocation into the fractioned protocol (two 30-minute daily applications) or continuous protocol (single one-hour application). We evaluated the color change at baseline, weekly, and 30 days after the bleaching using Vita Classical and Vita Bleachedguide using the units of shade guides (SGU) and by spectrophotometer using CIELab 1976 (ΔEab) and CIEDE 2000 formulas (ΔE00), as well as Whiteness Index (ΔWID). We assessed the absolute risk of TS with a visual analog scale (VAS) and numeric rating scale (NRS). Color changes in each recall were compared with the Student t-test. The risk of TS was evaluated by the Chi-square test, and the intensity by Mann-Whitney test (NRS) and Student t-test (VAS).

RESULTS

The mean difference for the ΔSGU Vita Classical (0.5; 95% CI: -0.5 to 1.5), ΔSGU Vita Bleachedguide (-0.4; 95% CI: -1.5 to 0.7), ΔEab (1.4; 95% CI: -0.1 to 2.9), ΔE00 (0.6; 95% CI: -0.4 to 1.6), and ΔWID (-3.2; 95% CI: -7.3 to 0.9) after three weeks of bleaching was not clinically or statistically significant (p>0.10). The absolute risk of TS was 44% (95% CI: 30-58%) and 46% (95% CI: 32-61%) in the fractioned and continuous protocols, respectively (RR=1.0; 95% CI: 0.6 to 1.5; p>0.91).

CONCLUSION

A fractioned bleaching protocol with 4% HP (30 minutes twice daily) did not increase the whitening degree nor affect the risk and intensity of TS when compared with the one-hour continuous protocol.

Application Tip and Concentration of a Self-mixing Bleach: Hydrogen Peroxide Inside the Pulp Chamber, Color Change, and Amount of Bleaching Gel Used

PURPOSE

The objective of this study was to evaluate if the application method (tip with brush or tip without brush) and hydrogen peroxide (HP) concentration (6% or 35% self-mixing) of in-office bleaching gel influences the penetration of HP into the pulp chamber, color change, and the amount of bleaching gel used.

METHODS

Forty healthy premolars were randomly divided into the following five groups (n=8): no treatment; HP6% using a tip with a brush, HP6% using a tip without a brush, HP35% using a tip with a brush, and HP35% using a tip without a brush. After treatments, the HP concentration (μg/mL) within the pulp chamber was determined using UV-Vis spectrophotometry. The color change (ΔEab, ΔE00, and ΔWID) was evaluated using a digital spectrophotometer. The amount of gel used (g) in each group was measured using a precision analytical balance. Data from each test were submitted to parametric tests (α=0.05).

RESULTS

The tip with a brush resulted in a lower amount of HP inside the pulp chamber and less gel used when compared with the tip without a brush, regardless of HP concentration (p<0.05). However, regarding the tip used, although no significant difference was observed when HP35% was used (p>0.05), a higher whitening effect was observed when the 6% HP was applied without a brush as opposed to with a tip brush (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The use of a tip with a brush, regardless of the in-office bleaching gel concentration (6% or 35% self-mixing), presented a lower penetration and lower volume of spent gel when compared to a tip without brush. However, the whitening effect depended on the concentration of HP used.

From the first to the fourth critical period of COVID-19: what has changed in nursing practice environments in hospital settings?

BACKGROUND

The COVID-19 pandemic reinforced the need to invest in nursing practice environments and health institutions were led to implement several changes. In this sense, this study aimed to analyze the impact of the changes that occurred in nursing practice  environments between the first and fourth critical periods of the pandemic.

METHODS

Quantitative, observational study, conducted in a University Hospital, with the participation of 713 registered nurses. Data were collected through a questionnaire with sociodemographic and professional characterization and the Scale for the Environments Evaluation of Professional Nursing Practice, applied at two different points in time: from 1 to 30 June 2020 and from 15 August to 15 September 2021. Data were processed using descriptive and inferential statistics.

RESULTS

Overall, the pandemic had a positive impact on nursing practice environments. However, the Process component remained favourable to quality of care, while the Structure and Outcome components only moderately favourable. Nurses working in Medicine Department services showed lower scores in several dimensions of the Structure, Process and Outcome components. On the other hand, nurses working in areas caring for patients with COVID-19 showed higher scores in several dimensions of the Structure, Process and Outcome components.

CONCLUSIONS

The pandemic had a positive impact on various dimensions of nursing practice environments, which denotes that regardless of the adversities and moments of crisis that may arise, investment in work environments will have positive repercussions. However, more investment is needed in Medicine Department services, which have historically been characterised by high workloads and structural conditions that make it difficult to promote positive and sustainable workplaces.

Adding Value to Secondary Aluminum Casting Alloys: A Review on Trends and Achievements

Aluminum is a critical element of the circular economy as it can be recycled several times. Moreover, Al recycling is a more economically and environmentally efficient procedure than the primary Al production from ores. Secondary aluminum alloys are mostly used in casting applications since it is possible to accommodate their chemical composition through secondary manufacturing processes. However, the quality of the alloys may be considerably altered during the different steps of the recycling process. Inadequate waste sorting might result in excessive contamination. Iron is the most dangerous contaminant because it causes brittle and fragile intermetallic phases, which significantly impacts the mechanical characteristics of alloys. In addition, the microstructure of the alloy changes significantly after multiple cycles of remelting. These issues lead to the downcycling of aluminum, i.e., in other words, the reduction in the overall quality of the alloys. Thus, it has been shown that a number of procedures, including ultrasonic melt treatment and microalloying with rare earths, can somewhat alter the shape of the Fe-rich phases in order to reduce the shortcomings of downcycling. However, a solid mechanical characterization is still missing in order to improve the Fe-rich phase alteration.

Stearoyl CoA Desaturase-1 Silencing in Glioblastoma Cells: Phospholipid Remodeling and Cytotoxicity Enhanced upon Autophagy Inhibition

Modulation of lipid metabolism is a well-established cancer hallmark, and SCD1 has been recognized as a key enzyme in promoting cancer cell growth, including in glioblastoma (GBM), the deadliest brain tumor and a paradigm of cancer resistance. The central goal of this work was to identify, by MS, the phospholipidome alterations resulting from the silencing of SCD1 in human GBM cells, in order to implement an innovative therapy to fight GBM cell resistance. With this purpose, RNAi technology was employed, and low serum-containing medium was used to mimic nutrient deficiency conditions, at which SCD1 is overexpressed. Besides the expected increase in the saturated to unsaturated fatty acid ratio in SCD1 silenced-GBM cells, a striking increase in polyunsaturated chains, particularly in phosphatidylethanolamine and cardiolipin species, was noticed and tentatively correlated with an increase in autophagy (evidenced by the increase in LC3BII/I ratio). The contribution of autophagy to mitigate the impact of SCD1 silencing on GBM cell viability and growth, whose modest inhibition could be correlated with the maintenance of energetically associated mitochondria, was evidenced by using autophagy inhibitors. In conclusion, SCD1 silencing could constitute an important tool to halt GBM resistance to the available treatments, especially when coupled with a mitochondria disrupter chemotherapeutic.

Modelling Hyperglycaemia in an Epithelial Membrane Model: Biophysical Characterisation

Biomimetic models are valuable platforms to improve our knowledge on the molecular mechanisms governing membrane-driven processes in (patho)physiological conditions, including membrane permeability, transport, and fusion. However, current membrane models are over simplistic and do not include the membrane’s lipid remodelling in response to extracellular stimuli. Our study describes the synthesis of glycated dimyristoyl-phosphatidylethanolamine (DMPE-glyc), which was structurally characterised by mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) and quantified by NMR spectroscopy to be further incorporated in a complex phospholipid (PL) membrane model enriched in cholesterol (Chol) and (glyco)sphingolipids (GSL) designed to mimic epithelial membranes (PL/Chol/GSL) under hyperglycaemia conditions. Characterisation of synthesised DMPE-glyc adducts by tandem mass spectrometry (ESI-MS/MS) show that synthetic DMPE-glyc adducts correspond to Amadori products and quantification by ¹H NMR spectroscopy show that the yield of glycation reaction was 8%. The biophysical characterisation of the epithelial membrane model shows that excess glucose alters the thermotropic behaviour and fluidity of epithelial membrane models likely to impact permeability of solutes. The epithelial membrane models developed to mimic normo- and hyperglycaemic scenarios are the basis to investigate (poly)phenol-lipid and drug–membrane interactions crucial in nutrition, pharmaceutics, structural biochemistry, and medicinal chemistry.

The role of cardiac troponin-I as a prognostic tool for mortality in patients hospitalized with COVID-19

Background

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been associated with significant morbidity and mortality, with cardiovascular involvement being usual. Elevations in cardiac Troponin-I level has proposed as an independent biomarker for mortality among patients with COVID-19.

Aim

To evaluate the role of high sensivity Troponin-I (hs-TnI) level at hospital admission in predicting 30 day in-hospital mortality and 6-month mortality in patients hospitalized with a COVID-19 diagnosis.

Methods

We performed a retrospective single-center cohort study including consecutive patients aged 18 years and older who were admitted for COVID-19, during a 1-year period (n=818). We excluded patients with acute coronary syndrome (n=23), patients with acute heart failure (n=42), and patients in which hs-TnI level was not dosed at admission (n=163). Patients were divided into two groups according to hs-TnI levels: hs-TnI &lt;19.8 vs hs-TnI ≥19.8 pg/mL. Primary outcomes were 30-day in-hospital mortality and 6-months mortality. According to the data distribution, appropriate statistical tests were conducted to compare independent samples. Multivariable logistic regression was used to analyze mortality risk. Receiver operator characteristics (ROC) curve and area under the curve (AUC) were obtained to determine the discriminative power of hs-TnI as a predictor of mortality. (Figure 1).

Results

This cohort included 590 patients. Mean age was 71 ≥±15 years and 52.4% were men. Overall, 209 patients (35.4%) had elevated hs-TnI levels and 381 patients had normal hs-TnI levels. Individuals in the hs-TnI ≥19.8 pg/mL group were older (80±11 vs 66±14 years, p&lt;0.001) and presented higher prevalence of chronic heart failure (24.9% vs 7.1%, p&lt;0.001), hypertension (77.0% vs 57.5%, p&lt;0.001), atrial fibrillation/flutter (19.1% vs 5.5%, p&lt;0.001), prior stroke (12.4% vs 5.2%, p=0.001) and ischemic heart disease (12.4% vs 3.7%, p&lt;0.001). There was no difference in length of hospital stay between the groups (8.0 [IQR 9.6] in hs-TnI 19.8 pg/mL group vs 9.0 [IQR 8.0] normal hs-TnI group, p=0.669). Troponin-I was the only independent predictor of in-hospital mortality (OR 3.80, CI 95%: 2.44–5.93, p&lt;0.001), see Table 1. The troponin levels had the highest area under the receiver operating characteristic curv (AUC) with an AUC of 0.705 (95% CI: 0.667–0.742, p&lt;0.001) for association with the in-hospital mortality (figure 1). There was no difference in 6-months mortality between the two groups.

Conclusion

Acute myocardial injury is common in patients hospitalized with COVID-19. In the present study a TnI level ≥19.8 pg/mL was predictor of 30 days in-hospital mortality, suggesting that raised levels of this biomarker is associated with adverse prognosis. This tool might be useful for COVID-19 patient risk stratification. Further studies are needed to provide robust data and reliable recommendations on this theme.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

At-home Bleaching with a Novel Carbamide Peroxide Polymeric Nanoparticle Gel: A Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVES

To compare the risk and intensity of tooth sensitivity (TS) as well the effectiveness of at-home bleaching using two carbamide peroxide bleaching gels, specifically a novel polymeric nanoparticle gel (experimental) and a commercial gel (Opalescence PF, Ultradent, South Jordan, Utah, USA), applied at two application times.

METHODS

This multicenter, triple-blind, and split-mouth randomized controlled trial was conducted on 80 healthy adults with canine teeth that were shade A2 or darker. The participants all used the experimental and the control gels on one side of a tray, depending on the group to which they were allocated, for 30 or 60 minutes per day over four weeks. The absolute risk and intensity of TS were assessed daily using the five-point Numeric Rating Scale and the 0-10 Visual Analogue Scale. Color change was evaluated with shade guide units (ΔSGU) and a digital spectrophotometer (ΔEab, ΔE00, and ΔWid) at baseline and 30 days postbleaching. The risk and intensity of TS was evaluated by the McNemar and the Wilcoxon signed-rank tests, respectively. Color change (ΔSGU, ΔEab, ΔE00, and ΔWid) was evaluated by Mann-Whitney and paired t-tests (α=0.05).

RESULTS

No differences in the risk and intensity of TS were observed based on the bleaching gels used and the times of application (p>0.05). Thirty days after bleaching, there was no significant difference in color change, in terms of the bleaching gels used or the application times (p>0.05).

CONCLUSION

The novel carbamide peroxide polymeric nanoparticles gel, when applied for 30 or 60 minutes, produced effective color change and a low rate of tooth sensitivity, as compared to the control group.

Influence of Irradiance and Exposure Times on the Mechanical and Adhesive Properties of Universal Adhesives with Dentin

OBJECTIVES

This study evaluated the influence of irradiance/exposure time on the Knoop hardness (KHN) and polymer cross-linking density (PCLD), as well as microtensile bond strength (μTBS), nanoleakage (NL), and in situ degree of conversion (DC) of universal adhesives.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Two universal adhesive systems, Clearfil Universal Bond Quick (CUQ) and Scotchbond Universal Adhesive (SBU), were light-cured using various irradiance/exposure times: 1400 mW/cm2 for 5 s (1400*5); 1400 mW/cm2 for 10 s (1400*10); 3200 mW/cm2 for 5 s (3200*5); and 3200 mW/cm2 for 10 s (3200*10). Adhesive disks from each group were used to measure PCLD by KHN. One hundred and twenty-eight human molars were randomly assigned to 16 groups according to the following variables: adhesive system vs adhesive strategies vs radiance/exposure times. After restoration, specimens were sectioned into resin-dentin sticks and tested for μTBS, NL, and DC. The data from PCLD (%), KHN, μTBS (MPa), NL (%), and DC (%) data were subjected to ANOVA and Tukey's test (α=0.05).

RESULTS

Significant reductions in KHN, μTBS, and DC (p=0.00001) values and an increase in NL and PCLD (p=0.00001) values were observed for 3200*10 when compared with other groups. Higher KHN, μTBS, and DC (p=0.000001) values were observed for 3200*5 in comparison with the other groups. The 1400*5 (7 J/cm2) and 1400*10 (14 J/cm2) groups showed intermediate values (p=0.000001).

CONCLUSION

Although similar results in terms of hardness, polymer cross-linking density and nanoleakage were observed when 5 seconds at 3200 mW/cm2 and 10 seconds at 1400 mW/cm2 groups were compared, the use of higher irradiance (3200 mW/cm2) for only 5 seconds showed better results in terms of bond strength and degree of conversion for both universal adhesives to dentin. The prolonged exposure time (10 seconds) at the higher irradiance (3200 mW/cm2) showed the worst results.

P-247 Fresh oocyte donation, the use of donor sperm, and the number of usable blastocysts are associated with higher clinical pregnancy rates: results from 1655 cycles

Study question

What are the factors associated with clinical pregnancy in the first single embryo transfer of an oocyte donation treatment?

Summary answer

The number of blastocysts and the use of donor sperm were positively correlated with clinical pregnancy, while the use of vitrified/warmed oocytes was negatively correlated.

What is known already

The use of donor oocytes for in vitro fertilization treatments is often necessary to overcome infertility. The number of donor oocytes allocated to each recipient is a key variable to the cumulative success of these treatments. However, time to pregnancy is another key metric in assisted reproduction, and it is important to achieve a better understanding of the factors influencing the success of the first embryo transfer of an oocyte donation treatment.

Study design, size, duration

A retrospective study was conducted to analyze the outcome of the first single blastocyst transfer of 1665 oocyte donation cycles, from 8 private IVF units, from July 2018 to July 2021. Patients who underwent multiple cycles were only included in the study once, during their first treatment. The endpoint of the study was the clinical pregnancy rate, defined by the presence of a gestational sac confirmed by ultrasound one month after the transfer.

Participants/materials, setting, methods

All cycles during the study period, using donor oocytes, resulting in a first fresh or frozen single blastocyst transfer were analyzed. Cases that used PGT-A or sperm from testicular biopsy were excluded. Multiple logistic regression was used to determine the association of the variables: patient age, sperm origin, vitrified/warmed oocytes, fertilization and blastocyst development rate, total number of usable blastocysts obtained, fresh/frozen transfer, and embryonic day at transfer.

Main results and the role of chance

A total of 972 (58.4%) embryo transfers resulted in a clinical pregnancy in the study population. The mean age of the recipient and male partner was 42±4.4 years and 42.1±6.0 years, respectively, and did not differ between positive and negative transfer groups. Statistically significant higher pregnancy rates were observed for day 5 transfers vs. day 6 (59% vs 46%) and fresh vs. vitrified/thawed oocytes (64% vs. 55%). The mean number of zygotes (5.1 vs. 4.8, p = 0.032), the mean fertilization rate (76.3% vs. 72.8%, p = 0.007), the mean usable blastocyst development rate (60.0% vs. 57.7%, p = 0.006) and the mean total number of usable blastocysts (2.9 vs. 2.6, p &lt; 0.001) were higher in clinical pregnancy group.

The results of multiple logistic regression showed that the use of sperm donor increased the chances of achieving a clinical pregnancy rate in the first embryo transfer (OR 1.36, 1.04-1.79), and the use of vitrified/thawed oocytes reduced them (OR 0.69, 0.56-0.85). There was a positive association with a higher number of usable blastocysts obtained in a cycle, and higher pregnancy rates (OR 1.16, 1.07-1.26), presumably by allowing for additional morphological embryo selection.

Limitations, reasons for caution

Certain confounding factors were not accounted for: variability of results between the different IVF units, endometrial preparation protocols, post-warming embryo morphology, sperm analysis diagnostic, as well as variability in recipients’ and donors’ baseline characteristics.

Wider implications of the findings

Factors of an oocyte donation treatment influencing the outcome of the first embryo transfer were identified. A better understanding of these factors, and interactions amongst them, is key to maximize the efficacy of these treatments, and achieve an optimal use of a limited resource such as donated oocytes.

Trial registration number

not applicable

Combined Bleaching Technique Versus At-home Bleaching-A Single-blind Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVE

To compare the efficacy, color stability, and tooth sensitivity (TS) of combined bleaching, using a modified protocol with at-home bleaching.

METHODS

Eighty participants were randomized into two groups. In the combined group, a desensitizing gel was applied (10 minutes) prior to in-office bleaching (35% hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), 2×15 minute applications) and at-home bleaching (4% H2O2, 2×30 minutes for 21 days) started the next day. In the at-home group, only the at-home bleaching was performed. Color was recorded at the beginning and postbleaching with two scales (VITA Classical and Bleachedguide) and Easyshade spectrophotometer. The TS was recorded daily with a 0-10 visual analogue scale (VAS) and five-point numeric rating scale (NRS).

RESULTS

A 40% lower risk (RR=1.4; 95% CI 1.1-1.9) was observed in the at-home group. Higher color change and intensity of TS [mean difference 2.3 (95% CI 1.3-3.3) in the VAS] was observed in the first week for the combined group. After the end of the protocol, a bleaching degree was detected for both groups, with no significant difference between both groups (p>0.05).

CONCLUSION

The combined group produced a slightly higher degree of color change than at-home bleaching but with a higher risk and intensity of TS.

Massive fetomaternal hemorrhage: a case series and review of literature

Objectives

Massive fetomaternal hemorrhage (FMH) is a rare and difficult to diagnose event that can have catastrophic outcomes. Although many etiologies have been associated with FMH, the majority of cases are idiopathic and affect uncomplicated pregnancies. The prevailing symptom is decreased fetal movements but some cases are asymptomatic. Changes in the fetal Doppler ultrasound, a sinusoidal cardiotocographic pattern, neonatal anemia, unexplained hydrops or stillbirth can raise suspicion that such an event has occurred.

Case presentation

This article presents a case series of severe FMH diagnosed in our center between 2011 and 2020 as well as a review of the current available literature.

Conclusions

We highlight the importance of the clinician’s awareness on detecting this rare but potentially life-threatening event.

Effect of Dentin Moisture in Posterior Restorations Performed with Universal Adhesive: A Randomized Clinical Trial

OBJECTIVES

This double-blind, randomized clinical trial evaluated the influence of dentin moisture on postoperative sensitivity (POS), as well as, on clinical performance in posterior bulk-fill composite restorations, using a universal adhesive, until 12 months after clinical service.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

In accordance with a split-mouth design, 45 patients received posterior restorations, restored with a bulk-fill resin composite (Filtek Bulk Fill, 3M Oral Care) and a universal adhesive used in etch-and-rinse mode (SBU; Single Bond Universal Adhesive), which were applied on dry or moist dentin, with a cavity depth of at least 3 mm. Three operators placed 90 Class I/Class II restorations. Patients were evaluated for spontaneous and stimulated POS in the baseline, and after 48 hours, 7 days, and at 6 and 12 months. In addition, secondary parameters (marginal discoloration, marginal adaptation, fracture, and recurrent caries) were evaluated by World Dental Federation (FDI) criteria after 7 days and at 6 and 12 months. Statistical analyzes were performed using the Chi-square, Fisher exact, Friedman, Kruskall-Wallis, and Mann-Whitney tests (α=0.05).

RESULTS

No significant spontaneous and stimulated POS was observed when SBU was applied in dry and moist dentin (p>0.05). A significant and higher risk of spontaneous POS (20.0%; 95%CI 10.9-33.82 for dry dentin and 22.22%; 95%CI 12.54-36.27 for moist dentin) occurred up to 48 hours after restoration placement for the dry and moist dentin groups (p<0.02). However, the POS intensity was mild up to 48 hours with no significant difference between dry and moist dentin groups (p>0.79). When secondary parameters were evaluated, no significant differences between the groups were observed.

CONCLUSION

Dentin moisture did not influence POS in posterior bulk-fill composite restorations when associated with a universal adhesive applied in etch-and-rinse mode.

Grain Refinement of Inconel 718 Superalloy-The Effect of Rotating Magnetic Field

The effect of the application of a rotating magnetic field on the average grain size of IN718 castings was experimentally studied. For the purpose, four parts were produced by investment casting and characterized. The first casting was produced without application of RMF for comparison. The remaining ones were submitted to different RMF frequencies for 15 min and subsequently to the pouring of the nickel-based superalloy. In these three castings, the RMF frequencies applied were, respectively, 15 Hz, 75 Hz and 150 Hz. All the other process parameters were kept constant during the execution of the experimental procedure. The average grain size of the samples was determined according to the ASTM E112-13 standard, using intercept methods. Macro hardness measurements, tensile testing and SEM-EDS analysis were conducted in order to evaluate the casting’s mechanical properties and microstructures. The results demonstrate a noticeable grain size reduction in the samples submitted to rotating magnetic field. An average grain area reduction, greater than 96%, was achieved in the castings where RMF frequencies of 75 Hz and 150 Hz were applied. The application of RMF also caused a morphological change in the casting’s dendrites from cellular to almost equiaxed. Additionally, it originated the decrease of the size and amount of needle-like δ phase. Regarding mechanical properties of the cast parts, no major differences were verified.

In Vitro Performance of Different Universal Adhesive Systems on Several CAD/CAM Restorative Materials After Thermal Aging

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the microshear bond strength (mSBS) of 10 universal adhesive systems applied on five different CAD/CAM restorative materials, immediately and after thermal aging.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Five CAD/CAM materials were selected: 1) feldspathic glass ceramic (FeCe); 2) pre-polymerized reinforced resin composite (ReRC); 3) leucite-reinforced glass ceramic (LeGC); 4) lithium disilicate (LiDi); and 5) yttrium-stabilized zirconium dioxide (ZiDi). For each material, 15 blocks were cut into four rectangular sections (6 × 6 × 6 mm; n=60 per group) and processed as recommended by the respective manufacturer. For each indirect material, the following adhesive systems were applied according to the respective manufacturer's instructions: 1) AdheSE Universal [ADU]; 2) All-Bond Universal [ABU]; 3) Ambar Universal [AMB]; 4) Clearfil Universal Bond [CFU]; 5) Futurabond U [FBU]; 6) One Coat 7 Universal [OCU]; 7) Peak Universal Bond [PUB]; 8) Prime&Bond Elect [PBE]; 9) Scotchbond Universal Adhesive [SBU]; 10) Xeno Select [XEN, negative control]. After the application of the adhesive system, cylinder-shaped transparent matrices were filled with a dual-curing resin cement (NX3) and light cured. Specimens were tested in shear mode at 1.0 mm/ min (mSBS), after 24 hours and 10,000 thermal cycles (TC). All data were submitted to statistical analysis (α=0.05).

RESULTS

For FeCe, there was no significant decrease in mean mSBS for AMB, FBU, and SBU after TC when compared at 24 hours. For ReRC, AMB and SBU showed higher mean mSBS when compared to CFU and XEN, after 24 hours and TC. For LiDi, FBU and OCU showed higher mean mSBS when compared to CFU and XEN, after 24 hours and TC. For LeGC, AMB and PUB showed higher mean mSBS when compared to XEN, after 24 hours and TC. For ZiDi, OCU and SBU showed higher mean mSBS when compared to XEN, after 24 hours and TC. In addition, PBE and XEN showed the lowest mean mSBS after TC with higher percentage of bond strength reduction.

CONCLUSIONS

The mean mSBS among the different universal adhesives varied widely for each CAD/ CAM material used. In addition, most universal adhesives underwent a statistically significant bond strength reduction after TC.

Effect of dental headlights spectrum on the polymerization and working time of light-cured resin composites

Background

The use of dental headlights is a common practice to better illuminate the operatory field and achieve excellence in restorative dentistry. However, visible light-cured dental materials can have reduced working time under headlight illumination. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of the spectral irradiance power of two dental headlights on the degree of polymerization and working time of light-curable dental composites.

Material and Methods

Two headlights, StarLight Nano 3 (StarMed) (SN) and Zeon Endevour XL (Orascoptic) (ZE) were characterized using a spectrophotometer coupled to an integrating sphere (MARC® Light Collector, BlueLight Analytics). The degree of conversion of the two composites, Filtek Supreme (3M) and Tetric Prime (Ivoclar Vivadent), was evaluated using an FTIR spectroscope (NicoletTM iS20, Thermo Fisher).

Results

Both headlights emitted a significant amount of blue light. The Zeon headlamp without filter emitted a broader spectrum with lower blue intensity and higher CRI than the White LED of the Nano 3. The Zeon headlamp with the blue blocking filter emitted a broader spectrum than the Orange LED of the Nano 3. There were no differences in the degree of conversion and working time of the Filtek Supreme and Tetric Prime composites when illuminated by the different headlamps. Both Zeon and the White LED of the Nano 3 were capable to cure the composites within only 5-10 minutes of irradiation. There were no changes in the degree of conversion of the composites when the Orange LED of the Nano 3 or the blue blocking filter of the Zeon were used.

Conclusions

Both headlights reduced the working time of light-cured materials. The use of orange filters prevented the composite polymerization and maintained the working time.

Key words:Surgical Headlight, degree of conversion, working time, light-curing.

Five-year Randomized Clinical Trial on the Performance of Two Etch-and-rinse Adhesives in Noncarious Cervical Lesions

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the 5-year clinical performance of two-step etch-and-rinse adhesives in noncarious cervical lesions (NCCL).

METHODS AND MATERIALS

The sample comprised 35 adults with at least two similar-sized NCCL. Seventy restorations were placed, according to one of the following groups: Adper Single Bond 2 (SB) and Ambar (AM). The restorations were placed incrementally using a resin composite (Opallis). The restorations were evaluated at baseline and after 6 and 18 months and 5 years using some items of the FDI criteria. The differences in the ratings of the two materials after 6 months, 18 months, and 5 years were performed with Friedman repeated measures ANOVA by rank and McNemar test for significance in each pair (α=0.05).

RESULTS

Five patients did not attend the 60-month recall. No significant differences were observed between the materials for any criteria evaluated. Twenty-one restorations failed (12 for SB and 9 for AM) after 60 months. Thus, the retention rate for SB at 60 months were 55.6% for SB and 71% for AM (p=0.32). After 60 months, 12 restorations (6 for SB and 6 AM) showed some loss of marginal adaptation (p=1.0). Slight marginal discoloration was observed in 10 restorations (6 for SB and 4 AM; p=0.91). Five restorations (2 for SB and 3 for AM) showed recurrences of caries (p=1.0).

CONCLUSIONS

Both two-step etch-and-rinse adhesives-Adper Single Bond 2, a polyalkenoic acid-containing adhesive, and Ambar, a 10-methacryloyloxydecyl dihydrogen phosphate (MDP)-containing adhesive-showed acceptable clinical performance after 60 months.

Challenging the Concept that OptiBond FL and Clearfil SE Bond in NCCLs Are Gold Standard Adhesives: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

PURPOSE

The following PICO (Patient/Population, Intervention, Comparison, and Outcomes) question was proposed: "Are retention rates of composite resin restorations in noncarious cervical lesions (NCCLs) when using adhesives considered "gold standard" (OptiBond FL and Clearfil SE Bond) higher than those obtained with other adhesives brands"?

METHODS

A search was performed in February 2019 (updated in November 2019) in the PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, LILACS, BBO, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Grey Literature, and IADR abstracts (1990-2018); unpublished and ongoing trial registries, dissertations, and theses were also searched. Only randomized clinical trials (RCTs) conducted in NCCLs that compared either OptiBond FL or Clearfil SE Bond adhesive with other commercially available adhesives were included. The risk of bias (RoB) was applied by using the Cochrane Collaboration tool. A meta-analysis was performed for retention rates at different follow-up times using a random effects model for both the adhesives. Heterogeneity was assessed with the Cochran Q test and I2 statistics. Grading of Recommendations: Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) assessed the quality of evidence.

RESULTS

After removal of duplicates and noneligible articles, 25 studies remained for qualitative synthesis, as one study was common to the two adhesives, of which 9 studies were used for the OptiBond FL meta-analysis and 14 for the Clearfil SE Bond meta-analysis. No significant differences were observed for retention rates in follow-up periods of 12-24 months (p=0.97), 36-48 months (p=0.72), or 108-156 months (p=0.73) for OptiBond FL; and for 12-24 months (p=0.10) and 36-48 months (p=0.17) for Clearfil SE Bond. A significant difference was only found for OptiBond FL at 60-96 months (p=0.02), but only three studies were included in this meta-analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

The evidence from available RCTs conducted in NCCLs that compared OptiBond FL or Clearfil SE Bond does not support the widespread concept that these adhesives are better than any other competitive brands available in the dental market.

Effects of Microabrasion Prior to In-office Bleaching on Hydrogen Peroxide Permeability, Color Change, and Enamel Morphology

PURPOSE

This study evaluated hydrogen peroxide (HP) diffusion within the pulp chamber, as well as color change and the surface morphology of teeth subjected to various microabrasion (MA) protocols associated or not with in-office (IO) bleaching.

METHODS

Forty sound premolars were randomly divided into the following four groups (n=10): no treatment (NC); IO bleaching only; IO immediately after MA (IMA), and IO seven days after MA (7MA). After treatments, the HP concentration (μg/mL) within the pulp chamber was determined using ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectrophotometry. The color change (ΔE*) was evaluated using the digital spectrophotometer before and 1 week after bleaching. The surface morphology was evaluated by scanning electron microscope (SEM). Data from each test were submitted to one-way ANOVA and Tukey tests (α=0.05).

RESULTS

All experimental groups exhibited higher HP concentrations compared to the NC group (p<0.00001). However, higher amounts of HP were observed for the IMA group compared to the IO and 7MA groups (p<0.00001). No significant difference in color change was observed among the groups (p<0.001). Pronounced grooves in enamel were found in the IMA and 7MA groups. However, enamel erosion areas were observed only in the 7MA group.

CONCLUSIONS

The association between MA and IO bleaching could significantly affect the amount of HP inside the pulp chamber. Therefore, it is highly recommended to wait for 1 week after MA procedures before performing IO bleaching.

Evaluation of Tooth Sensitivity of In-office Bleaching with Different Light Activation Sources: A Systematic Review and a Network Meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

A systematic review and network meta-analysis were performed to answer the following research question: Are there differences in the risk and the intensity of tooth sensitivity (TS) among eight light activation systems for in-office bleaching in adults?

METHODS

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared at least two different in-office bleaching light activations were included. The risk of bias (RoB) was evaluated with the RoB tool version 1.0 from the Cochrane Collaboration tool. A random-effects Bayesian mixed treatment comparison (MTC) model was used independently for high- and low-concentration hydrogen peroxide. The certainty of the evidence was evaluated using the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations) approach. A comprehensive search was performed in PubMed, Bridge Base Online (BBO), Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature database (LILACS), Cochrane Library, Scopus, Web of Science, and grey literature without date and language restrictions on April 23, 2017 (updated on September 26, 2019). Dissertations and theses, unpublished and ongoing trials registries, and IADR (International Association for Dental Research) abstracts (2001-2019) were also searched.

RESULTS

After title and abstract screening and the removal of duplicates, 32 studies remained. Six were considered to be at low RoB, three had high RoB, and the remaining had an unclear RoB. The MTC analysis showed no significant differences among the treatments in each network. In general, the certainty of the evidence was graded as low due to unclear RoB and imprecision.

CONCLUSION

There is no evidence that the risk and intensity of TS are affected by light activation during in-office bleaching.

Evaluation of At-home Bleaching Times on Effectiveness and Sensitivity with 10% Hydrogen Peroxide: A Randomized Controlled Double-blind Clinical Trial

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this randomized double-blind controlled clinical trial was to evaluate different protocols for at-home use of 10% hydrogen peroxide in whitening effectiveness and tooth sensitivity.

METHODS

Seventy-two patients were selected according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, with the upper central incisors having color A2 or darker according to the Vita Classical scale (VITA Zahnfabrik, Bad Säckingen, Germany) and randomized into two groups: 10% hydrogen peroxide applied once daily for 15 minutes (HP 15) or applied once daily for 30 minutes (HP 30). Bleaching was performed for 14 days in both groups. The color was evaluated before bleaching, during bleaching (1st and 2nd weeks), and 1 month after the bleaching treatment using the Vita Classical, Vita Bleachedguide 3D-MASTER, and Vita Easyshade spectrophotometer (VITA Zahnfabrik). Dental sensitivity was recorded by the patients using the numerical rating scale (0-4) and visual analogue scale (0-10 cm). Color data were evaluated by two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) of repeated measures (group vs. treatment time). The Mann-Whitney test was performed to contrast the means (α=0.05). Tooth sensitivity was assessed by Fisher's exact test (p=1.00) and intensity of tooth sensitivity was evaluated by the Mann-Whitney test (α=0.05) for both scales.

RESULTS

A significant whitening effect was observed after 2 weeks of bleaching for all color measurements (p=0.01), with no difference between HP 15 and HP 30 (p>0.05). Also, the absolute risk and intensity of tooth sensitivity were similar (47%; p>0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The effectiveness and tooth sensitivity of at-home bleaching carried out with 10% hydrogen peroxide applied for 15 minutes or 30 minutes are similar.

Effect of Daily Usage Time of 4% Hydrogen Peroxide on the Efficacy and Bleaching-induced Tooth Sensitivity: A Single-blind Randomized Clinical Trial

OBJECTIVE

Compare the risk/intensity of tooth sensitivity (TS) and color change of a 30-minute vs. the recommended 120-minute application time of 4% hydrogen peroxide (HP) for at-home bleaching.

METHODS

A single-blind, parallel, randomized clinical trial was conducted with 92 adult patients with caries and restoration-free anterior teeth A2 or darker, randomly allocated to two groups. Bleaching trays containing 4% HP were used for three-weeks. A four-week regimen was also offered to the patients for the 30-min group after the end of the 3-week protocol. The color change was assessed with the Vita Classical (VITA Zahnfabrik, Bad Säckingen, Germany) and Vita Bleachedguide shade guides (VITA Zahnfabrik) and the Vita Easyshade spectrophotometer (VITA Zahnfabrik) at baseline, weekly, and 30 days after the bleaching. The absolute risk and the intensity of TS were assessed daily using the 0-10 visual analogue scale (VAS) and 5-point Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) scale, and patient satisfaction was recorded with a Likert 0-7 scale. Risk of TS (Fisher's test), intensity of TS in NRS scale (Mann-Whitney test), VAS scale (t-test), and a color change (t-test) were compared.

RESULTS

The 30-minute group saw color change of around 1 SGU inferior to the 120-minute group in all-time assessments (p<0.05). After an extra week of bleaching, mean color change was similar (p>0.05). Patient satisfaction was high for both groups (p>0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

A four-week protocol of at-home dental bleaching with 4% HP for 30 minutes/day whitened teeth similarly to the 120 minutes/day protocol, with low intensity of dental sensitivity and high patient satisfaction.

(Poly)phenol-Rich Diets in the Management of Endothelial Dysfunction in Diabetes Mellitus: Biological Properties in Cultured Endothelial Cells

Processed and ready-to-eat foods become routinely consumed resulting in a sharp rise of sugar intake in people's daily diets. The inclusion of fresh fruits and vegetables rich in (poly)phenols has been encouraged by the World Health Organization (WHO) as part of the daily choices to ameliorate endothelial dysfunction and ease the socio-economic burden of diabetes. Research in Food, Nutrition, and Cell Metabolism areas is revealing that the health benefits of (poly)phenol-rich foods go beyond their antioxidant properties and are in fact key modulators of redox and glycaemia status, and inflammatory response contributing to improved endothelial function and vascular health in diabetes. Other beneficial aspects include appetite modulation, regulation of hydrolytic enzymes involved in sugar and lipid metabolism, and mediation of cell-cell aggregation events. This work overviews the current knowledge on the biological properties of ingested (poly)phenols in cultured endothelial cells with emphasis on the circulating (poly)phenols, providing support to (poly)phenol-rich diets as alternatives to drug-based therapies in the prevention, treatment, and management of diabetes. A critical evaluation on the caveats and challenges involve in current experimental cell-based designs and approaches adopted is also discussed.

Comparison of the Effect of Agitation on Whitening and Tooth Sensitivity of In-Office Bleaching: A Randomized Clinical Trial

OBJECTIVE

This single-blind, split-mouth, randomized trial was aimed at evaluating the bleaching efficacy (BE) and tooth sensitivity (TS) of a 20% hydrogen peroxide (HP) bleaching agent used under active or passive application.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Twenty-two patients with canines darker than C2 were selected. Teeth were bleached in two sessions, with a one-week interval between treatments. The bleaching agent was applied using active (HPactive) or passive (HPpassive) application. Each tooth in the HPactive-allocated hemiarch received bleaching gel with sonic activation after 10 and 30 minutes from the start of treatment, with rounded movements all over the buccal surface. The color changes were evaluated by subjective (Vita Classical and Vita Bleachedguide) and objective (VITA Easyshade Spectrophotometer) methods at baseline and 30 days after the second session. TS was recorded up to 48 hours after treatment using a 0-10 visual analog scale. Color change in shade guide units (SGUs) and ΔE was analyzed using a Wilcoxon test (α=0.05). The absolute risk and intensity of TS were evaluated using McNemar test and a Wilcoxon test, respectively (α=0.05).

RESULTS

Significant whitening was observed in both groups after 30 days of clinical evaluation. The activation did not significantly influence BE (ΔSGU HPpassive=5.6 and HPActive=5.8; p=0.98; and ΔE HPpassive=10.6 and HPactive=10.3; p=0.83). Absolute risk of TS (HPactive=36.4% and HPpassive=31.8%; p=0.94) was similar for both groups (Fisher exact test). TS intensity (visual analogue scale) was higher during the bleaching sessions and up to 24 hours thereafter for both groups, with no differences between groups (twoway analysis of variance and Tukey).

CONCLUSION

The active application of a 20% HP gel did not improve BE and TS.

Topical application of a desensitizing agent containing potassium nitrate before dental bleaching: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the risk and intensity of tooth sensitivity (TS) after topical application of desensitizers containing potassium nitrate before dental bleaching.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, LILACS, BBO, Cochrane Library, and SIGLE. We also surveyed gray literature without restrictions. We meta-analyzed the data using the random-effects model to compare potassium nitrate and placebo in terms of risk and intensity of TS and color change (∆SGU or ∆E). The quality of the evidence was rated using the GRADE approach. The risk of bias (RoB) of the included studies was analyzed using the Cochrane RoB tool.

RESULTS

After the database screening, 24 articles remained. A significant 12% lower risk for the groups where desensitizing agents were applied (p = 0.02), with a risk ratio of 0.88 (95% CI 0.78 to 0.98). About the intensity of TS, a significant average mean difference of - 0.77 units of VAS units (95%CI - 1.34 to - 0.19; p = 0.01) in favor of the desensitizer group. In the NRS scale, a significant average mean difference of - 0.36 (95% CI - 0.61 to - 0.12; p value = 0.004) in favor of the desensitizer group. No significant difference was observed in color change (p > 0.28) in ∆SGU and ∆E.

CONCLUSIONS

Although a significant reduction in the risk and intensity of TS was observed in groups treated with a potassium nitrate at some point during the bleaching, the clinical significance of this reduction is subtle and clinically questionable. Color change is not affected by the use of agents.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

The reduction in the risk and intensity of TS with the topical application of potassium nitrate-based desensitizing agents in dental bleaching is subtle and maybe clinically questionable.

Dentin Cross-linking Effect of Carbodiimide After 5 Years

Carbodiimide (EDC)-based dentin primers preserve hybrid layer (HL) integrity. However, aging >1 y has not been investigated. The present study examined whether the cross-linking effect of EDC was reflected in dentin bond strength, endogenous enzymatic activity, and the chemical profile of the HL after 5-y aging in artificial saliva. Noncarious human third molars (N = 42) were cut to expose middle/deep coronal dentin and treated as follows: group 1, dentin etched with 35% H₃PO₄, pretreated with a 0.3M aqueous EDC primer for 1 min and restored with XP Bond (Dentsply Sirona); group 2, as in group 1 but without EDC pretreatment; group 3, Clearfil SE Bond (Kuraray-Noritake) primer applied to dentin surface, followed by EDC pretreatment as in group 1 and application of bond; group 4, as in group 3 without EDC pretreatment. After composite buildup, the specimens were cut into sticks or slabs, depending on the experiment. All tests were performed at baseline (T0) and after 5 y of aging (T5) in artificial saliva at 37 °C. Microtensile bond strength (µTBS) was tested at a crosshead speed of 1 mm/min until failure. Endogenous enzymatic activity was investigated with in situ zymography. The chemical profile of HL was determined via Raman spectroscopy. Three-way analysis of variance and post hoc Tukey test were used to analyze µTBS and in situ zymography data (α = 0.05). EDC pretreatment and aging significantly influenced µTBS and in situ zymography results (P < 0.05). Higher bond strength and lower gelatinolytic activity were identified in the EDC-treated groups at T5 (P < 0.05), especially in the etch-and-rinse groups. Raman spectra revealed less defined amide III peaks in control specimens at T5. The EDC cross-linking effect persisted in the HL for 5 y in terms of bond strength, collagen structure preservation, and dentinal enzyme silencing.

Physical activity and its clinical correlates in chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): Fundação para a Ciência (FCT) Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível (CAPES)

Background

 Limited data is available on physical activity (PA) levels in chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) patients, as well as on the impact of using different tools to assess PA such as questionnaires and accelerometers. 

Purpose

 We aimed to quantify PA levels of CTEPH patients and study its clinical correlates, as well as to compare PA levels measured by the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) with measures from accelerometers.

Methods

 This is a cross-sectional study (n = 50). Physical activity levels were measured using accelerometers and questionnaire (IPAQ). Clinical parameters evaluated were walked distance on the 6-minute-walking test (6MWT), pulmonary vascular resistance, N-terminal brain natriuretic peptide and quality of life (HRQoL) using the Cambridge Pulmonary Hypertension Outcome Review questionnaire.

Results

 Accelerometer-derived data showed that CTEPH patients spent 60% of the recorded time in sedentary behaviours and only 2% in moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA). MVPA was mildly correlated with 6MWT (r = 0.359; p= 0.023) and symptom domain of HRQoL (r=-0.371; p = 0.044) but not with NT-proBNP, pulmonary vascular resistance or functional domain of HRQoL. Time spent in sedentary behaviour was lower in self-reported measurement (279 ± 165min/day) compared to accelerometry (446 ± 117min/day, p &lt; 0.001). Self-reported MVPA was significantly higher than the one registered by the accelerometer (411 ± 569 vs. 131 ± 108 min/week, p = 0.027). Bland-Altman analysis indicated poor agreement between the two methods. 

Conclusions

 Our results showed that CTEPH patients spend most of their days in sedentary behaviors and only a small amount of time in MVPA. MVPA was associated with symptoms domain of HRQoL and submaximal functional capacity. In addition, we showed a poor agreement between self-reported and accelerometer-derived PA in CTEPH patients, with the former overestimating the overall PA activity.

Lack of Neutralization of 10-MDP Primers by Zirconia May Affect the Degree of Conversion of Dual-cure Resin Cement

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Use of zirconia primers with a low pH and a high acidic monomer concentration should be employed in combination with dual-cure resin cements that are less sensitive to an acidic environment. Primers with lower 10-MDP concentrations attain better outcomes.

SUMMARY

Clinical Performance of Filled/Nanofilled Versus Nonfilled Adhesive Systems in Noncarious Cervical Lesions: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

The use of filled adhesive systems does not influence the clinical performance of the adhesive restoration in noncarious cervical lesions.

SUMMARY

Species diversity, novel interactions and absence of well-supported host-guided phylogenetic groupings of Neotropical Alternaria isolates causing foliar lesions in Solanaceae

AIM

To report the characterization of 120 Alternaria isolates inducing early blight-like foliar lesions in nine species of five Solanaceae genera collected across all macrogeographical Brazilian regions.

MATERIAL AND RESULTS

Phylogenetic relationships were assessed via analyses of the Alternaria alternata allergenic protein-coding, glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase and the calmodulin gene sequences. Most of the tomato isolates were placed into the Alternaria linariae cluster, whereas most of the potato isolates were grouped with Alternaria grandis. Novel host-pathogen interactions were also reported. Seventeen isolates were selected for morphometrical characterization, and a subsample of 13 isolates was employed in pathogenicity assays on tomato, potato, eggplant, scarlet eggplant, Capsicum annuum, Datura stramonium, Physalis angulata and Nicotiana tabacum. Eleven isolates were able to induce foliar lesions in tomatoes but none in C. annuum. Potato was susceptible to a subgroup of isolates but displayed a subset of isolate-specific interactions. Morphological traits were in overall agreement with molecular and host range data.

CONCLUSION

Alternaria linariae and A. grandis were confirmed as the major causal agents of tomato and potato early blight, respectively. However other Alternaria species are also involved with early blight in solanaceous hosts in Brazil.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

The diversity and host-specific patterns of the Alternaria isolates from Solanaceae may have practical implications in establishing effective early blight genetic resistance and cultural management strategies especially for tomato and potato crops.