Investigation of the precision of a novel jaw tracking system in recording mandibular movements: A preliminary clinical study

OBJECTIVES

This preliminary study aimed to clinically assess the precision of a novel optical jaw tracking system (JTS) in registering mandibular movements (MMs) of protrusion and mediotrusion.

METHODS

Twenty healthy participants underwent recordings using Cyclops JTS (Itaka Way Med) for functional MMs of protrusion and laterotrusion by two trained clinicians. Each subject performed five registrations at different times according to a standardized pattern within one-month period. The angulations of protrusive and mediotrusive functional paths within the first 2 mm from the maximal intercuspal position (MIP) were calculated for each trace, using a data software for angle measurements. Descriptive statistics were used to assess the repeatability of the recordings for each participant and MM. Additionally, inferential statistics were carried out on standard deviation values obtained (α=0.05).

RESULTS

The overall precision for all the patients was 7.07±3.37° for the protrusion angle, 5.24±2.24° for right laterotrusion and 5.14±3.06° for left laterotrusion angles. The protrusion angle ranged from 3.08° to 13.57°, while the right and left laterotrusion ranged from 1.82° to 9.42° and from 1.58° to 10.59°, respectively. No statistically significant differences were observed between different functional MM types and gender (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Recordings functional MMs of mediotrusion and protrusion using Cyclops JTS showed consistent repeatability, regardless of gender and functional MM type. The results revealed non-negligible variations that may be due to the patients' abilities to precisely reproduce jaw movements or to the operator's ability to consistently connect the kinesiograph.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Capturing functional MMs digitally and importing the data into dental CAD software is essential for virtual waxing in prosthetic rehabilitations to design a functionalized adapted occlusion. Establishing the repeatability of MM recordings by a JTS is a crucial step in better understanding this novel JTS in the market. This process could facilitate the interpretation of cusp angles, aid in CAD dynamic technical modeling, and enhance clinical data communication between clinicians and technicians in a modern workflow.

Preliminary Ultrasonographic Study of Healthy California Sea Lion (Zalophus californianus) Pregnancy and Fetal Development

Reproductive success is an important aspect of marine mammals' population health, as it is an indicator of the trajectory for the population into the future. The aim of this study is to provide additional relevant data on fetus-maternal ultrasonographic monitoring in sea lion species, in order to evaluate possible fetal distress or abnormalities. From 2018 to 2023, serial ultrasonographic scans of two healthy California sea lion females (16 ± 4 years old), kept under human care, were performed over the course of two pregnancies for each female. Animals were monitored from the ovulation to the delivery. Ultrasonography was performed weekly, and, during the last month, daily images were recorded using Logiq Versana Active, General Electric, with a 2-5 MHz curvilinear transducer, and Logiq V2, General Electric, with a 2-5 MHz curvilinear transducer. Right and left lateral recumbencies have been used during the examination. To the author's knowledge, this is the first study describing in detail the sea lion organogenesis and their correlation with the stage of pregnancy.

The 4D virtual patient: A proof of concept in digital dentistry

This dental technique article updates the 3-dimensional (3D) virtual patient digital workflow by introducing the space-time information acquired with jaw tracking motion. The direct digital procedure involved scanning the interim prostheses, creating virtual casts, and transferring the digital facebow, virtual articulation, and jaw-tracking motion. All 3D files and records from the intraoral scanner, cone beam computed tomography, extraoral scanner, and jaw tracking motion were superimposed using existing teeth as the connecting link in all data sets and adopting the best-fit alignment. The main advantages of the technique were creating a 4-dimensional virtual patient and standardizing the introduction of clinical space-time information (the fourth dimension) beyond the static condition.

Novel complete-arch pillar system (CAPS) to register implant position and maxillomandibular relationship in one single visit

OBJECTIVES

This article presents a novel complete-arch pillar system (CAPS) to register implant position and maxillomandibular relationship in one single visit for implant-supported fixed complete dental prostheses (IFCDPs).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The novel system presents a 3-unit toolset comprising intraoral scan bodies (ISBs), lateral pillar attachments (LPAs) and occlusal pillar attachments (OPAs). A 2-stage single visit workflow by an intraoral scanner (Trios 5) was introduced. The first stage "Screw-Scan-Done" was used to describe complete-arch intraoral implant scanning using LPAs. The second stage "Screw-Occlude-Done" involved virtual occlusal recording using OPAs. Two patients with one single edentulous arch were selected for this study. In the first patient, 6 bone level implants (Bone Level Tapered, Straumann) were placed in the edentulous maxilla at positions 12, 14, 16, 22, 24 and 26. In the second patient, 4 bone level implants (NobelActive CC, Nobel Biocare) were placed in the edentulous mandible at positions 32, 35, 42 and 45. A CAD-CAM procedure was initiated with the acquired IOS data to fabricate an interim IFCDP at the same day. Periapical radiographs were obtained of the implant-prosthetic connection of the definitive IFCDPs to verify the passive fit. Metrology software (Geomagic Qualify, 3D Systems - Matlab, Mathworks) was used to assess the implant analogs position in the 3D-printed casts used for fabricating the definitive IFCDPs. A quantitative occlusal relationship analysis was performed with IOS.

RESULTS

Radiographic examination revealed no gaps at implant-prosthetic connection of the definitive IFCDPs. The 3D-printed casts showed an overall average distance deviation within the clinically acceptable range of errors of 150 µm. Quantitative occlusal relationship analysis with IOS showed well-distributed contacts.

CONCLUSION

Within the limitations of this study, the following conclusions can be drawn: (1) A 3-unit toolset with ISBs, LPAs and OPAs allows to register the implant position and maxillomandibular relationship in one single visit; (2) the 2-stage clinical workflow with the CAPS system facilitates the IOS data acquisition for fabrication of an interim IFCDP at the same day; (3) a passive fit was demonstrated for the interim and the definitive IFCDPs.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

The CAPS system can help clinicians to register the implant position and the maxillomandibular relationship in one single visit for the fabrication of an IFCDP.

Maxillomandibular relationship and virtual facebow integration in complete-arch intraoral implant scan: A novel clinical technique

This clinical report introduces a novel clinical technique to create a 3D virtual patient for transferring the edentulous maxillary arch position with maxillomandibular relationship by using a facial scan device and an intraoral scanner and omitting CBCT imaging.

Fracture strength of 3-units fixed partial dentures fabricated with metal-ceramic, graphene doped PMMA and PMMA before and after ageing: An in-vitro study

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the fracture strength and linear elongation at break of three-units fixed partial dentures (FPDs) fabricated with traditional and new materials for fixed prosthodontics before and after ageing.

METHODS

Sixty models of three-units FPDs were fabricated and cemented onto a Co-Cr model simulating the replacement of a maxillary second premolar. The samples were randomly divided into 3 groups: metal-ceramic (MCR), graphene-doped polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA-GR) and polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA). Half of the samples were directly subjected to fracture test, while the remaining half underwent an ageing process and then a fracture loading test using an electrodynamic testing machine. Fracture load and elongation at break values were taken and statistically analysed.

RESULTS

Significant differences were detected between the different materials (p<0.05). All groups showed a reduction of the fracture load and elongation at break values after ageing, but not statistically significant, except for PMMA group (p = 2.012e-19) (p = 3.8e-11).

CONCLUSIONS

MCR and PMMA-GR three-units FPDs showed higher fracture strength and lower elongation at break compared to PMMA. MCR and PMMA-GR had higher resistance to ageing processes compared to PMMA.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

PMMA-GR could be considered a material for long-term provisional restorations as its mechanical behaviour and ageing resistance are more like MCR than PMMA.

Atypical histological presentation of bone regeneration after insertion of cryoprotected allogeneic bone graft

BACKGROUND

To evaluate bone regenerative capacity of cryoprotected corticocancellous allogeneic bone graft performed in type II and III post-extraction sockets for ridge preservation after twelve weeks in-vivo.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Twenty-seven type II or III bony-walled extraction sockets (mandible and maxilla) were selected for this study. Following atraumatic tooth-extraction a cryoprotected corticocancellous allogeneic bone graft material and a resorbable porcine-derived collagen membrane were used for ridge preservation. During re-entry surgery at approximately 12 weeks, bone core biopsies were obtained using a 3.2 mm trephine drill and samples were histologically processed and subjected to qualitative and quantitative histomorphometric analysis. Quantitative data was analyzed using a general linear mixed model with results presented as mean values with the corresponding 95% confidence interval values.

RESULTS

Healing without incident and ridge preservation allowed for the placement of dental implants after 12 weeks in 25 out of the 27 treated socket sites. Analyses yielded an average of ~21.0±7% of old/native bone, ~17±5.5% of newly regenerated bone (total of ~38±12.8% for all bone), 0.23±0.14% of new bone presenting with nucleating sites within the matrix, ~52±5.12% of soft tissue, and 3.6±2.09% of damaged bone. The average regenerated bone was statistically analogous to that of old/native bone (p=0.355). Furthermore, an atypical histological pattern of bone regeneration was observed, with newly formed bone exhibiting "infiltration-like" behavior and with new bone nucleating sites observed within the demineralized bone matrix.

CONCLUSIONS

Cryoprotected corticocancellous allogeneic bone-graft demonstrated osteoconductive, osteoinductive, and osteogenic properties, yielding unique healing patterns which does warrant further investigation.

Rehabilitation with implant-supported overdentures in preteens patients with ectodermal dysplasia: A cohort study

INTRODUCTION

Hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia (HED) patients suffering of oligo-anodontia require early dental treatment to improve oral functions and reduce social impairment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the skeletal growth, implant and prosthetic survival rate, success, and complications after the rehabilitation with a maxillary denture and an implant-supported overdenture provided by a sliding bar in case of severe hypodontia/anodontia related to HED.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective cohort study began in 2009. Nine patients over 7 years old with HED and associated oligo-anodontia who presented at the University of Bologna for dental treatment were included in the study. They were first treated with conventional dentures and then with a maxillary denture and an implant-supported overdenture with a sliding bar connected to two implants placed in the anterior mandible. The subjects treated were followed for 3-12 years. In each case, orthopanoramic and lateral cephalometric radiographic exam were taken before implant placement and annually after prosthetic load. Vertical and transverse dimensions of the mandible in the symphysis area at implant sites were taken on the lateral cephalometric radiography at the time of implant placement and after 5 years from the prosthetic loading to assess the presence or absence of an anterior mandibular growth. Biologic and mechanical complications were also recorded at every visit.

RESULTS

A mandibular vertical growth under the implant apex, at the implant neck, and a sagittal growth of the symphysis after 5 years from the prosthetic loading were observed and measured. Implant and prosthetic success and survival rates were 100% after 8.1 years (mean) follow-up period. No complications were reported except in one patient, where the repositioning of a retentive cap on the counter bar in the superstructure was necessary after 3 years from the prosthetic loading.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study suggests that the growth of the mandible near implant sites continues even after their positioning. Implants can be successfully placed and provide support for prosthetic rehabilitation in preteens patients with HED.

Hygienic maintenance in patients with maxillae atrophy and in oncological patients with maxillary resection rehabilitated with zygomatic implants: A nested monocentric prospective cohort study

OBJECTIVE

To assess peri-implant soft tissues condition, comparing clinical parameters of implants placed in patients with atrophic upper jaws and patients who underwent maxillary resection for oncological reasons.

BACKGROUND

Zygomatic implants (ZIs) in oncologic patients could be affected by more complications compared to implants placed in atrophic maxillae. The soft tissue condition is an essential requirement for implant success, but few studies have investigated this topic.

METHODS

A nested monocentric prospective parallel cohort (atrophic vs. oncological patients) study was performed. Clinical visits and professional hygiene sessions were performed every three months, and bleeding on probing (BOP), probing pocket depth (PPD), gingival index (GI), plaque index (PI) and implant mobility were recorded by a blind outcome assessor.

RESULTS

In total, 77 ZIs placed in 21 patients were evaluated: 54 (70.1%) ZIs were inserted in patients belonging to the atrophic cohort (PAM) and 23 (29.9%) ZIs in the oncologic cohort (OP). The probability of having BOP at the considered mean follow-up (27 months) was 24.8% (95% CI 19.0-31.9) for PAM and 22.9% (95% CI 15.1-33.9) OP. The mean PPD values were 2.78 ± 1.28 (range 1-8) in PAM and 2.91 ± 1.98 (range 0-10) in OP. None of the implants showed mobility. No associations between group belongingness and the entity of PPD, PI, GI and the risk of BOP were found, adjusting for the considered confounding factors (age, smoking and implant position).

CONCLUSIONS

Under a strict supportive hygiene therapy protocol ZIs in oncologic patients showed similar peri-implant tissue conditions to that of patients with maxillary atrophy.

Evaluation of Tension and Deformation in a Mandibular Toronto Bridge Anchored on Three Fixtures Using Different Framework Materials, Abutment Systems, and Loading Conditions: A FEM Analysis

OBJECTIVE

 The aim of this study was to investigate by finite element method analysis the behaviour of a three-implant mandible Toronto framework made by three different materials, with two abutment systems and two loading conditions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

 Three implants were virtually inserted in a mandible model in positions 3.6, 4.1, and 4.6. Three prosthetic framework bars with the same design and dimension (4.8 × 5.5 mm) were projected. The variables introduced in the computer model were the framework materials (glass fiber reinforced resin, Co-Cr, TiAl6V4), the abutment systems (Multi-Unit-Abutment [MUA]/OT-Bridge), and the loading conditions (500 N vertical load on all the framework area and 400 N on a 7-mm distal cantilever). The computer was programmed with physical properties of the materials as derived from the literature. Maximum tension and deformation values for each variable were registered at framework, screws, and abutment level and then compared.

RESULTS

 Metal frameworks Cr-Co and TiAl6V4 resulted in lower deformation than glass fiber-reinforced resin frameworks while presenting higher tension values. The OT-Bridge exhibited lower maximum tension and deformation values than the MUA system. The first loading condition reached higher tension and deformation values than the second and it resulted in more uniformly distributed load on all the framework area, especially with the OT-Bridge system.

CONCLUSION

 More rigid materials and OT-Bridge system decrease the deformation on the prosthetic components. Tension stresses are more uniformly distributed with glass fiber-reinforced resin, in the OT-Bridge system and avoiding cantilever loading.

Influence of Thickness and Thermocycling on Tensile Strength of Two Resin-Based Cements Used for Overdenture Bar-Type Attachments: An In Vitro Study

PURPOSE

This study aimed to evaluate the tensile strength of five different thicknesses of two resin cements placed between two titanium surfaces, before and after ageing.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

One hundred titanium 5 grade models composed of two surfaces simulating a semiprecision attachment for overdenture and its housing in the framework, were used. Samples were cemented using two different resin cements (SoloCem and OT-Cem). Five groups representing five different cement thicknesses (from 50 to 250μm) were created by varying the housing diameter. A half of the sample underwent to a tensile strength test 24h after luting, while the other half after 30000 thermic cycles from 5°C to 55°C. Shapiro-Wilk and ANOVA with post-hoc tests were performed to relate the tensile strength to the variables: cement type, thermal ageing and cement thickness (p <0.05).

RESULTS

Statistical differences were found between the cements both at T0 and T1; the mean values of tensile strength of SoloCem were three times higher than those of OT-Cem. The thermic cycles determined a reduction of the tensile force values for both cements; statistical evidence was found only for the SoloCem except for the 100μm thickness group. Significant differences were also found between the cement thicknesses of both cements, with 50µm and 100μm expressed the best tensile strength. Most of the fractures were of cohesive nature.

CONCLUSION

SoloCem showed a higher tensile strength than OT-Cem but has been more stressed by the ageing. For each group the cement thickness influenced the tensile strength values with an inverse relationship.

Preliminary clinical study of the accuracy of a digital axiographic recording system for the assessment of sagittal condylar inclination

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to clinically evaluate the accuracy of a digital axiographic recording system in tracing the sagittal condylar inclination.

METHODS

An axiographic examination that records the sagittal condylar path during protrusive/retrusive movement was performed on ten patients. Each subject was registered five different times by two different systems: 1) the Cadiax Gamma Diagnostic 4 computerized system as the control; 2) the Zebris Jaw Motion Analyser+  Optic System as the tested digital axiographic recording system. The records obtained allow to calculate the kinematic terminal transverse horizontal axis and the sagittal condylar inclination (SCI) at 3 and 5 mm along the pro-retrusive path. A linear mixed model was used to analyze if there was a statistically significant difference between the two systems.

RESULTS

The mean left SCI value recorded by Zebris system were 49.81 ± 10.64° at 3 mm, 48.10 ± 11.04° at 5 mm, while the values recorded by Gamma system were 55.16° at 3 mm, 52.18° at 5 mm. The mean right SCI value recorded by Zebris system were 54.53 ± 10.26° at 3 mm, 51.85 ± 8.55° at 5 mm, while the values recorded by Gamma system were 49.68° at 3 mm, 48.23° at 5 mm. Linear mixed model showed no significant statistical difference between the two systems.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on preliminary results, the Zebris Jaw Motion Analyzer+ Optic System demonstrates comparable accuracy to the Cadiax Gamma Diagnostic 4 when measuring sagittal condylar inclination.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

The digital axiographic recording system enables to evaluate sagittal condylar inclination and to adjust virtual articulators in a digital workflow.

Comparison of the accuracy between full-arch digital scans and scannable impression materials: an in vitro study

BACKGROUND

In some clinical cases, full-arch impression could be difficult to take correctly with the digital way. Patients with high flow salivary rate or with difficulties in mouth opening can still benefit from a conventional impression with elastomer materials that can be directly or indirectly digitized. The aim of this study was to compare the accuracy and precision of two different intraoral scanners (IOSs) and an impression material with scannable properties, by means of three-dimensional analysis of a complete dental arch.

METHODS

An anatomical model of complete upper arch, modified with a Scan body placed in the retroincisive area, was used. It was firstly scanned by a desktop scanner to create a digital reference model. Then, 3 groups were created, each constituted by 5 samples. In the first group, 5 impressions were taken from the same master model with the scannable PVS material (Hydrorise Implant), 5 scans were taken using Trios4 (3Shape) and other 5 scans with iTero Element 5D (iTero). STL files obtained from IOSs, and scanned impressions were three-dimensionally superimposed on the STL file of the reference model using the Scan body geometry.

RESULTS

The ANOVA Test (P<0.005) did not show any statistically significant difference between the accuracy and precision values of the groups. Each group shows clinically acceptable deviations from the reference model.

CONCLUSIONS

Scannable polyvinylsiloxane impression materials are equally accurate and precise as the two IOSs tested in full-arch dentate impressions.

Evaluation of Load Distribution in a Mandibular Model with Four Implants Depending on the Number of Prosthetic Screws Used for OT-Bridge System: A Finite Element Analysis (FEA)

In full-arch implant rehabilitations, when the anterior screw abutment channel compromises the aesthetic of the patient, the OT-Bridge system used with its Seeger rings may provide the necessary retention of the prosthesis. However, no studies have evaluated the forces generated at the Seeger level during loading. This Finite Element Analysis aims to investigate the mechanical behavior of Seeger rings in a mandibular model with four implants and an OT-Bridge system, used without one or two anterior prosthetic screws. A 400 N unilateral load was virtually applied on a 7 mm distal cantilever. Two different variables were considered: the constraint conditions using two or three screws instead of four and the three different framework materials (fiberglass reinforced resin, cobalt-chrome, TiAl6V4). The FEA analysis exhibited tensile and compressive forces on the Seeger closest to the loading point. With the resin framework, a tension force on abutment 3.3 generates a displacement from 5 to 10 times greater than that respectively expressed in metal framework materials. In a full-arch rehabilitation with four implants, the case with three prosthetic screws seems to be a safer and more predictable configuration instead of two. Considering the stress value exhibited and the mechanical properties of the Seeger, the presence of only two prosthetic screws could lead to permanent deformation of the Seeger in the screwless abutment closest to the loading point.

A comparison of accuracy between three different facial detection systems for prosthodontic esthetic preview: a single-blinded in vitro study

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to compare the accuracy of 3 different devices for facial images acquisition, useful for prosthodontic esthetic preview.

METHODS

Bidimensional extraoral photographs (Nikon D300), facial scans (Bellus3D) and 3D digital stereophotogrammetry photos (3dMD Face System) were acquired from 15 patients. The intraoral impressions of all subjects were digitally taken through a scanner (i500; Medit). Files obtained from each acquisition method were transferred on Exocad Software, and the measurements of the frontal teeth were performed and compared with those of the intraoral scans, assumed as reference. The data were statistically analyzed (Friedman and Dunn tests) with P<0.05.

RESULTS

As for central and lateral incisors, no significant difference emerged between 2D digital photography and intraoral scans, both in height and width. Measures obtained with Bellus3D significantly differed from the reference data in width of all teeth, except for central incisors. Values referred to canines were those more subjected to significant distortions in width for all devices.

CONCLUSIONS

Within the limits of this study, measures of frontal teeth acquired by 2D digital photography were similar to those of intraoral scans both in height and width, while those obtained with 3D facial scanners were more subjected to distortions in mesial-distal dimension.

Digital planning of composite customized veneers using Digital Smile Design: Evaluation of its accuracy and manufacturing

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to evaluate the production of customized composite veneers starting from a two-dimensional (2D) digital preview using the Digital Smile System (DSS). MATERIAL AND METHODS: A photographic examination of 30 patients was performed by taking two digital pictures of the face and a digital preview through the DSS. Moreover, optical scans of the dental arches were obtained and the data were entered into a three-dimensional (3D) software to prepare a virtual preview. The standard tessellation language files were sent for production using CAD-CAM technology. The Friedman test, Bonferroni, and Dunn post hoc tests were used, comparing the linear measurements of the 2D and 3D plans and the final veneers (α = .05).

RESULTS

Significant differences emerged between the pictures and digital scans on the mesial-distal widths of the lateral incisors and canine. Linear measurements in the 2D plan were significantly different from those of the 3D plan, except for the height measures of incisors. No significant changes were found on comparing the parameters of the 2D and 3D plans with those of the final pieces.

CONCLUSIONS

The customized veneers were clinically adequate and similar to 2D and 3D plans, although significant differences emerged between the picture and digital scans as well as between the 2D and 3D plans.

Computer-Aided Rehabilitation Supported by Zygomatic Implants: A Cohort Study Comparing Atrophic with Oncologic Patients after Five Years of Follow-Up

The aim of this study was to evaluate the survival and clinical success rate, complications, and patients’ quality of life after computer-aided rehabilitation supported by zygomatic implants in cases of severe maxillary atrophy (ten patients) and in bone defects in oncologic patients (ten patients). All patients underwent computer-aided planning and surgery. Seventy-three zygomatic implants were placed. The mean follow-up period was 39.9 months. Implant survival and clinical success rate, the effectiveness of planning the implant length, biological and prosthetic complications, and the quality of life were evaluated. The five-year implant survival rate for patients with maxillary atrophy and oncologic patients was 97.4% and 96.7%, respectively. The prosthetic survival rate was 100%. Two implant failures occurred in the first year. One implant failure was observed in each group. Minor biological and prosthetic complications occurred in both groups without significant differences. All complications were managed without affecting the treatment. The quality of life increased by 71.3% in the atrophic group and by 82.9% in the oncologic group. Zygomatic implant rehabilitation seems to be a reliable technique for patients with maxillary atrophy and for oncologic patients. The three-dimensional computer-aided approach allows the surgeon to plan the surgery and increase its predictability. Early prosthesis loading certainly allows for better functional outcomes.

Hand-Rearing of Three Lesser Flamingo Chicks (Phoeniconaias minor)

Simple Summary

Like many other colonial nesting waterbirds, all six flamingo species are considered of conservation concern because of their dependence on a limited number of wetlands, particularly for breeding. Population decreases of some species have been linked to changes in the ecosystem. Specifically, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the lesser flamingo (Phoeniconaias minor) population is declining and near threatened. The ability to hand-rear nestlings of this endangered species and return them to the wild is, therefore, an important aspect of the conservation of the lesser flamingo and of flamingos in general. Hand-rearing of abandoned chicks is recommended as a conservation tool to limit mortality and to bolster the population at specific colonies. When adults are not able to rear chicks, chicks must be offered a diet that allows them to maintain adequate growth and development. Successful hand-rearing is based on a formula that meets the nutritional needs of the chicks as they develop. The aim of this study is to describe the diet composition, dietary intake, feeding protocols, and growth index of three lesser flamingo chicks hand-reared with the diet described in the paper to share important data useful for the conservation of the populations in the wild. All the aforementioned parameters were recorded daily, from hatching to 2 months of age.

Abstract

There are few published studies regarding lesser flamingo (Phoeniconaias minor) reproduction, crop milk composition, and hand-rearing under human care. Between the end of June and the beginning of August of 2017, three eggs were laid in a group of 29 lesser flamingos kept under human care. Two eggs and one chick were abandoned by the parents, and three chicks were hand-reared. This report describes diet composition, dietary intake, feeding protocols, and growth index, from the first day to 60 days after hatching, for three lesser flamingo chicks.

Three-Dimensional Radiographic Evaluation of the Malar Bone Engagement Available for Ideal Zygomatic Implant Placement

Zygomatic implant rehabilitation is a challenging procedure that requires an accurate prosthetic and implant plan. The aim of this study was to evaluate the malar bone available for three-dimensional zygomatic implant placement on the possible trajectories exhibiting optimal occlusal emergence. After a preliminary analysis on 30 computed tomography (CT) scans of dentate patients to identify the ideal implant emergencies, we used 80 CT scans of edentulous patients to create two sagittal planes representing the possible trajectories of the anterior and posterior zygomatic implants. These planes were rotated clockwise on the ideal emergence points and three different hypothetical implant trajectories per zygoma were drawn for each slice. Then, the engageable malar bone and intra- and extra-sinus paths were measured. It was possible to identify the ideal implant emergences via anatomical landmarks with a high predictability. Significant differences were evident between males and females, between implants featuring anterior and those featuring posterior emergences, and between the different trajectories. The use of internal trajectories provided better bone engagement but required a higher intra-sinus path. A significant association was found between higher intra-sinus paths and lower crestal bone heights.

Pregnancy and Fetal Development: Cephalic Presentation and Other Descriptive Ultrasonographic Findings from Clinically Healthy Bottlenose Dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) under Human Care

Simple Summary

Ultrasound data are vital for monitoring and detecting problems in pregnancies, and although there is a significant amount of data for domestic species, data for marine mammals are scarce. In domestic species, the use of ultrasonography to monitor a pregnancy usually has the following aims: fetal movements, fetal heart rates, measurements of the skull and the thorax for the prediction of the birth date interval, the morphological aspects of the fetal organs, the appearance of the umbilical cord, and the placentation. The purpose of this study is to provide to the clinician additional relevant data on fetal development and well-being during a dolphin pregnancy that may also be useful for wild population monitoring. This study is the result of a retrospective analysis of 192 ultrasound scans over 10 years that, for the first time, describes the sonographic findings of the bottlenose dolphin organogenesis and their correlation with the stage of pregnancy, as well as the calf presentation at birth, according to its position within the uterus, and moreover a complete literature review.

Abstract

Ultrasonography is widely used in veterinary medicine for the diagnosis of pregnancy, and can also be used to monitor abnormal pregnancies, embryonic resorption, or fetal abortion. Ultrasonography plays an important role in modern-day cetacean preventative medicine because it is a non-invasive technique, it is safe for both patient and operator, and it can be performed routinely using trained responses that enable medical procedures. Reproductive success is an important aspect of dolphin population health, as it is an indicator of the future trajectory of the population. The aim of this study is to provide additional relevant data on feto-maternal ultrasonographic monitoring in bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) species, for both the clinicians and for in situ population studies. From 2009 to 2019, serial ultrasonographic exams of 11 healthy bottlenose dolphin females kept under human care were evaluated over the course of 16 pregnancies. A total of 192 ultrasound exams were included in the study. For the first time, the sonographic findings of the bottlenose dolphin organogenesis and their correlation with the stage of pregnancy are described. Furthermore, this is the first report that forecasts the cephalic presentation of the calf at birth, according to its position within the uterus.

Erysipelas vaccination protocols in dolphins Tursiops truncatus evaluated by antibody responses over twenty continuous years

Erysipelas is an infection caused by Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae that affects many different species around the world, including cetaceans. The acute septicemic form can rapidly cause death in bottlenose dolphins Tursiops truncatus. The ultimate goals of this long-term study were the development and identification of the most effective vaccination protocol against clinical erysipelas in T. truncatus using a commercially available swine vaccine, and to determine whether there is a need for a semi-annual vaccination versus an annual vaccination. The present study concentrated on the immunization of a dolphin population (7 wild-born and 22 captive-born individuals) with 2 swine vaccines, the European 'Eurovac Ery®' vaccine and the American 'ER Bac Plus®' vaccine, and immunological profile results over a 20-yr time period. The general protocol was a primo-vaccination (between 3 and 7 mo of age for calves) with or without a booster 1 mo post primo-vaccination and either annual or semi-annual vaccination thereafter. Sera were collected prior to vaccination, 2 wk post-vaccination and monthly. A dolphin-specific ELISA was developed to analyze the erysipelas-specific antibody response of vaccinated animals. The final ELISA results (n = 1362 samples from 29 animals at pre- and post-vaccination time) suggest that (1) there is a significant difference in antibody levels at the start of the vaccination between older and younger animals; (2) at least 3 vaccinations are necessary to obtain antibody levels above the levels at pre-vaccination; (3) thereafter, annual vaccinations seem sufficient to keep antibody levels above the levels at pre-vaccination; and (4) both vaccines induced similar responses. No case of erysipelas infection was observed in this population during the study.

Genomic and expression analyses of Tursiops truncatus T cell receptor gamma (TRG) and alpha/delta (TRA/TRD) loci reveal a similar basic public γδ repertoire in dolphin and human

BACKGROUND

The bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) is a mammal that belongs to the Cetartiodactyla and have lived in marine ecosystems for nearly 60 millions years. Despite its popularity, our knowledge about its adaptive immunity and evolution is very limited. Furthermore, nothing is known about the genomics and evolution of dolphin antigen receptor immunity.

RESULTS

Here we report a evolutionary and expression study of Tursiops truncatus T cell receptor gamma (TRG) and alpha/delta (TRA/TRD) genes. We have identified in silico the TRG and TRA/TRD genes and analyzed the relevant mature transcripts in blood and in skin from four subjects. The dolphin TRG locus is the smallest and simplest of all mammalian loci as yet studied. It shows a genomic organization comprising two variable (V1 and V2), three joining (J1, J2 and J3) and a single constant (C), genes. Despite the fragmented nature of the genome assemblies, we deduced the TRA/TRD locus organization, with the recent TRDV1 subgroup genes duplications, as it is expected in artiodactyls. Expression analysis from blood of a subject allowed us to assign unambiguously eight TRAV genes to those annotated in the genomic sequence and to twelve new genes, belonging to five different subgroups. All transcripts were productive and no relevant biases towards TRAV-J rearrangements are observed. Blood and skin from four unrelated subjects expression data provide evidence for an unusual ratio of productive/unproductive transcripts which arise from the TRG V-J gene rearrangement and for a "public" gamma delta TR repertoire. The productive cDNA sequences, shared both in the same and in different individuals, include biases of the TRGV1 and TRGJ2 genes. The high frequency of TRGV1-J2/TRDV1- D1-J4 productive rearrangements in dolphins may represent an interesting oligo-clonal population comparable to that found in human with the TRGV9- JP/TRDV2-D-J T cells and in primates.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the features of the TRG and TRA/TRD loci organization reflect those of the so far examined artiodactyls, genomic results highlight in dolphin an unusually simple TRG locus. The cDNA analysis reveal productive TRA/TRD transcripts and unusual ratios of productive/unproductive TRG transcripts. Comparing multiple different individuals, evidence is found for a "public" gamma delta TCR repertoire thus suggesting that in dolphins as in human the gamma delta TCR repertoire is accompanied by selection for public gamma chain.

The maximum likelihood degree of Fermat hypersurfaces

We study the critical points of the likelihood function over the Fermat hypersurface. This problem is related to one of the main problems in statistical optimization: maximum likelihood estimation. The number of critical points over a projective variety is a topological invariant of the variety and is called maximum likelihood degree. We provide closed formulas for the maximum likelihood degree of any Fermat curve in the projective plane and of Fermat hypersurfaces of degree 2 in any projective space. Algorithmic methods to compute the ML degree of a generic Fermat hypersurface are developed throughout the paper. Such algorithms heavily exploit the symmetries of the varieties we are considering. A computational comparison of the different methods and a list of the maximum likelihood degrees of several Fermat hypersurfaces are available in the last section. 

Evaluation of seasonal changes of serum and plasma estradiol-17β, progesterone and testosterone in dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) by chemiluminescence

Aim:

The purpose of the research was to test and validate an innovative and safe chemiluminescence method to evaluate sexual hormones in serum and plasma samples of Tursiops truncatus.

Materials and Methods:

The research was performed on 9 bottlenose dolphins entertained in Oltremare and in Zoomarine aquatic parks, sampled by the tail vein or from the ventral one and an ultrasound monitoring, throughout a 6 months period. Blood samples were analyzed using a chemiluminescence method. Data obtained were compared to radioimmunoassay and enzyme immuno assay reference data, with the purpose to test and validate this method, through the calculation of the coefficient of variability, and its reliability on serum and plasma samples. A one-way analysis of variance was applied to test the effect of time on serum and plasma hormonal changes.

Results:

Mean concentrations of estradiol-17β in serum were equal to 149.07±6.82 pmol/L, and in plasma equal to 159.14±12.99 pmol/L; mean values of progesterone in serum were equal to 0.69±0.05 pmol/L, and in plasma equal to 0.64±0.05 pmol/L; mean values of testosterone in serum were equal to 44.43±14.42 nmol/L, and in plasma equal to 48.99±11.20 nmol/L.

Conclusion:

It would be interesting to widen the investigations on a larger number of subjects, in which the relationship between the concentrations of free and binding steroid hormones, with the dosing of binding proteins, would define the physiological ranges of reference in the T. truncatus.

An approach to the stereo-controlled synthesis of polycyclic derivatives of l-4-thiazolidinecarboxylic acid active against HIV-1 integrase

Herein, we describe a new strategy for the preparation of thiazolothiazepine-based inhibitors of human immunodeficiency virus type-1 integrase (IN). The present method allows facile preparation of the title compounds in a single enantiomeric form starting from l-4-thiazolidinecarboxylic acid. This method could be easily extended to the synthesis of several analogs derived from optically active cyclic aminoacids. We also present a putative model showing the interaction between l- and d-isomers of compound 1 in the IN active site. A sensibly lower IC(50) value was found for (-)-1 over racemic-1 in an anti-IN assay.

Demolition of a hospital building by controlled explosion: the impact on filamentous fungal load in internal and external air

The demolition of a maternity building at our institution provided us with the opportunity to study the load of filamentous fungi in the air. External (nearby streets) and internal (within the hospital buildings) air was sampled with an automatic volumetric machine (MAS-100 Air Samplair) at least daily during the week before the demolition, at 10, 30, 60, 90,120, 180, 240, 420, 540 and 660 min post-demolition, daily during the week after the demolition and weekly during weeks 2, 3 and 4 after demolition. Samples were duplicated to analyse reproducibility. Three hundred and forty samples were obtained: 115 external air, 69 'non-protected' internal air and 156 protected internal air [high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filtered air under positive pressure]. A significant increase in the colony count of filamentous fungi occurred after the demolition. Median colony counts of external air on demolition day were significantly higher than from internal air (70.2 cfu/m(3) vs 35.8 cfu/m(3)) (P < 0.001). Mechanical demolition on day +4 also produced a significant difference between external and internal air (74.5 cfu/m(3) vs 41.7 cfu/m(3)). The counts returned to baseline levels on day +11. Most areas with a protected air supply yielded no colonies before demolition day and remained negative on demolition day. The reproducibility of the count method was good (intra-assay variance: 2.4 cfu/m(3)). No episodes of invasive filamentous mycosis were detected during the three months following the demolition. Demolition work was associated with a significant increase in the fungal colony counts of hospital external and non-protected internal air. Effective protective measures may be taken to avoid the emergence of clinical infections.

Cord blood lipoprotein-cholesterol: relationship birth weight and gestational age of newborns

Umbilical plasma levels of lipoproteins-cholesterol were measured in 60 premature (less than 37 weeks), 60 small for gestational age (SGA, greater than 37 weeks), and 60 full term newborns (greater than 37 weeks) to ascertain the relationship between gestational age, infant's weight and concentration of plasma lipoprotein cholesterol. Umbilical levels of total cholesterol (TC), unesterified cholesterol (UC), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) in premature newborns were significantly higher (P less than .001) than in term infants. The levels of TC, UC, HDL-C and very low density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-C) were substantially higher (P less than .05) in umbilical cord plasma of SGA newborns than in cord plasma of full term newborns. Lecithin:cholesterol acyltransferase activity in cord plasma was indirectly assessed by measuring the ratio of esterified cholesterol to unesterified cholesterol (CE/UC). This ratio was significantly lower (P less than .01) in preterm and SGA than in full term newborns. In addition, plasma TC, UC, LDL-C and HDL-C levels were inversely correlated with gestational age of newborns. By contrast, CE/UC ratio had an inverse correlation with gestational age and HDL-C of the newborns. These findings suggest that the levels of TC in newborns are regulated by the uptake of LDL-C by the fetal adrenal and, additionally, by the lecithin:cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT) activity of newborn plasma. Only by careful follow-up of hyperlipidemic neonates can the true incidence of familial hyperlipoproteinemia and the value of early diagnosis be assessed.

Longitudinal study of plasma lipids and lipoprotein cholesterol in normal pregnancy and puerperium

Plasma lipids and lipoprotein cholesterol distribution were measured in 60 normal pregnancies studied longitudinally at 12, 20, 28, and 36 weeks of gestation and 3 and 40 days postpartum. Total cholesterol, unesterified cholesterol, phospholipids, triglycerides and cholesterol in low- and very-low-density lipoproteins rose progressively during pregnancy. Maximal values were reached at 36 weeks for total cholesterol, unesterified cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and at partum for triglycerides, very-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and phospholipids. High-density lipoprotein cholesterol was hardly affected by pregnancy. During the second half of pregnancy and postpartum period, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol was consistently and negatively correlated with triglycerides and very-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. In each period studied total cholesterol showed very high positive correlation with low-density lipoprotein cholesterol but a weak correlation with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol.

[Antilipolytic activity in vitro of various analogs of nicotinic acid. Structure-activity relationship]

The antilipolytic activity of a series of N aryl-nicotinamides and of alpha picolinic acid, has been tested in vitro. Lipolysis was stimulated by epinephrine (20 micrograms/ml of incubation medium) using rat's epididymal adipose tissue slices. Only N(2-carboxy methyl phenyl) nicotinamide showed antilipolytic effect comparable to that of nicotinic acid at similar concentrations (2 X 10(-5) M). Picolinic acid (10(-4) M) showed no antilipolytic effect. These results, together with those of the literature, are discussed in regard to the relations between structure and antilipolytic activity.

Plasma lipids and cholesterol esterification rate during pregnancy

Total plasma cholesterol, cholesterol in high-density lipoproteins, unesterified cholesterol, total plasma triglycerides, and plasma cholesterol esterification rate were measured in three groups of subjects, including 176 pregnant, 22 nonpregnant, and 22 postpartum women. Total cholesterol levels showed a 49% increase during pregnancy, reaching a maximum at 33 to 36 weeks. Triglycerides showed a three-fold increase over the levels in nonpregnant women by 37 to 40 weeks' gestation. However, unesterified cholesterol percentage and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol were hardly affected by pregnancy. The hyperlipidemia of pregnancy is accompanied by an increase in the plasma cholesterol esterification rate for the first half of gestation. During the second half of gestation there is little change in the plasma cholesterol esterification rate, in the presence of a continuing increase in plasma lipid levels.