METHODS: Lizardfish bone collagens were extracted with various acids (i.e., acetic, lactic and citric acids). All extraction processes were conducted in a chiller room (4 °C). The extracted collagens were biochemically characterized, such as hydroxyproline content, Ultraviolet (UV) absorption, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy spectra (FTIR), Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and solubility in different pH values and NaCl concentrations.
RESULTS: The yield of extracted collagens ranged between 1.73% and 2.59%, with the highest (p
METHODS: Eighty-two extracted premolar teeth with single canals, infected with Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis) and cultured for two weeks, were randomly assigned to four groups: negative control, 4% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), 60 s HIFU, and 120 s HIFU (operated at 250 kHz/20W). Post-treatment, biofilm samples were collected from the root canals to assess viable bacterial cells using colony-forming unit (CFU) and 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5 diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assays. The root canal surfaces were subsequently examined using scanning electron microscopy, confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM), microhardness, and Raman spectroscopy. Acoustic wave penetration, distribution, and temperature changes within the RCS were examined using CLSM and thermal camera.
RESULTS: HIFU at 60 s and 120 s consistently demonstrated superior anti-bacterial efficacy against E. faecalis biofilms compared to 4% NaOCl. MTT and CFU assays revealed a significant reduction in biofilm viability, particularly at 120 s of HIFU exposure (p<0.05). CLSM and SEM analyses demonstrated enhanced penetration and detachment of biofilms, as well as improved smear layer removal and preservation of dentinal tubules, especially at 120 s of HIFU exposure. HIFU treatment did not adversely affect the amide/mineral content of root dentine or its surface microhardness. Additionally, HIFU enhanced acoustic wave propagation and resulted in a controlled increase in temperature within the root canal over time.
CONCLUSION: This minimally invasive approach shows promise for removing bacterial biofilms in the RCS, positioning HIFU as a valuable adjunctive treatment for enhancing root canal disinfection. (EEJ-2024-08-123).
METHODS: We assessed the relationship between STRN status in humans (HyperPATH cohort) and SSBP and on volume regulated systems in humans and a striatin knockout mouse (STRN+/-).
RESULTS: The previously identified association between a striatin risk allele and systolic SSBP was demonstrated in a new cohort (P = 0.01). The STRN-SSBP association was significant for the combined cohort (P = 0.003; β = +5.35 mm Hg systolic BP/risk allele) and in the following subgroups: normotensives, hypertensives, men, and older subjects. Additionally, we observed a lower epinephrine level in risk allele carriers (P = 0.014) and decreased adrenal medulla phenylethanolamine N-methyltransferase (PNMT) in STRN+/- mice. No significant associations were observed with other volume regulated systems.
CONCLUSIONS: These results support the association between a variant of striatin and SSBP and extend the findings to normotensive individuals and other subsets. In contrast to most salt-sensitive hypertensives, striatin-associated SSBP is associated with normal plasma renin activity and reduced epinephrine levels. These data provide clues to the underlying cause and a potential pathway to achieve, specific, personalized treatment, and prevention.