Search Results (49)

Improving the texture and shelf-life of whey-based ice cream remains a key challenge in clean-label food formulation. This study investigated the effects of different stabilizing ingredients—including Cremodan SI 320 (0.6%), oat β-glucan (0.25–0.5%), and yeast β-glucan (0.25–0.5%)—on the physicochemical properties and freezing dynamics of ice cream made from liquid hydrolyzed demineralized whey concentrate. Compared to Cremodan, oat β-glucan significantly lowered the freezing point, improved overrun, and enhanced melting resistance. Yeast β-glucan led to the smallest initial ice crystals (8.49 ± 0.37 μm) and minimal growth after one month (9.52 ± 0.16 μm), outperforming the control and Cremodan samples in crystal stability. The chemical composition and textural properties of each formulation were also evaluated. These findings demonstrate that oat and yeast β-glucans function as natural stabilizers, offering clean-label potential and improved structural integrity in frozen dairy desserts. Full article

Background: Dental fluorosis can affect the micromorphology of dentin, a fact that could present constraints relating to the structural, mechanical, and chemical stability of dentin when it is demineralized in operative maneuvers. Introduction: The aim of this article is to quantify the amount of calcium and the microhardness of both a healthy and a fluorotic dentin through conditioning with a two-step self-etching system (Optibond Versa, Kerr, CA, USA). Methods: Dentin samples were obtained from healthy molars diagnosed with mild, moderate, and severe fluorosis. The amount of calcium was quantified utilizing an atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The hardness was evaluated using a Vickers durometer. Two dentin samples from each study group were examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results: A one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey–Kramer test were applied as post hoc tests for determining the differences in calcium values between the study groups and to show the difference in the hardnesses evaluated. The Student’s t-test was applied to related samples. The level of significance was set at p < 0.05. Statistically significant results were obtained for the amount of calcium and microhardness of the healthy dentin group. The SEM images demonstrated irregular etching patterns in the fluorotic dentin, indicating potential bonding challenges. Conclusion: In conclusion, there is a lower amount of calcium and a significant reduction in microhardness in healthy dentin when applying the self-etching system compared to fluorotic dentin. Fluorotic dentin is more resistant to demineralization, which may influence adhesive bonding strategies. Clinicians should consider adjusting conditioning protocols for optimal adhesion in fluorotic teeth. Full article

Background: We compared the camouflage effect of three white spot lesion (WSL) treatments (infiltration, nano-hydroxyapatite (nHAP) remineralization, and microabrasion) and color stability of the treated surfaces. Methods: Fifty sound extracted teeth were used in the study. WSLs were created on 40 buccal dento-enamel specimens through the use of acidic methylcellulose gel. These specimens were randomly assigned to treatment groups (n = 10 per group): negative controls, nano-hydroxyapatite (nHAP), resin infiltration, and microabrasion. After the treatment, all 50 specimens were immersed in coffee for 7 days. Color measurements were performed four times: at baseline (T0), after the demineralization procedure (T1), after the treatments (T2), and after immersion in coffee (T3). Results: No restoration of the initial enamel color was observed in any of the groups. The ICON and MA groups exhibited the highest masking effect, with the mean ΔE_T0-T2 = 7.46, although the differences among the study groups were insignificant. All three treatments increased the resistance of WSLs to discoloration in coffee compared to the negative control group; however, infiltration (∆E_T2-T3 = 4.13) and microabrasion (∆E_T2-T3 = 3.49) showed a better color stability tendency than nHAP remineralization (∆E_T2-T3 = 7.26). Conclusions: Despite its well-known remineralizing and desensitizing effects, nHAP showed the least masking effect for WSLs and lower color stability compared to resin infiltration and microabrasion. However, none of the methods allowed for complete restoration of the original color. After the discoloration procedure, the color changes in the white spots treated with microabrasion and infiltration were comparable to those of the sound enamel. Full article

Recently, photoactivated riboflavin (RF) treatments have been approved to improve resin–dentin bonding by enhancing dentinal collagen crosslinking. This study aimed to evaluate whether RF activated by blue light (BL, 450 nm) strengthens the collagen matrix, increases resistance to enzymatic degradation, and improves adhesion as effectively as ultraviolet A (UVA, 375 nm) activation. Six groups were examined: control (no treatment); RF0.1UV2 (0.1% RF with 2 min of UVA irradiation); RF0.1BL1, RF0.1BL2, RF1BL1, and RF1BL2 (0.1% and 1% RF with 1 or 2 min of BL irradiation). The effects of RF/BL on collagen crosslinking were validated by gel electrophoresis. A nanoindentation test showed that both RF/UVA and RF/BL treatments enhanced the elastic modulus and nanohardness of demineralized dentin. A zymography assay using collagen extracted from demineralized dentin also revealed significant matrix metalloproteinase-2 inhibition across all RF treatments. Microtensile bond strength (µTBS) tests conducted both post-treatment and after 7-day enzymatic degradation showed that three RF0.1 groups (RF0.1UV2, RF0.1BL1, and RF0.1BL2) maintained high µTBS values after degradation, while RF0.1BL1 generated a significantly thicker hybrid layer compared to other groups. These findings suggest that RF/BL is as effective as RF/UVA in crosslinking dentinal collagen and resisting enzymatic degradation, with 0.1% RF proving superior to 1% RF in enhancing dentin bonding. Full article

This study aimed to clarify the effects of high-concentration fluoride varnish application on the inhibition of the progression of initial enamel caries. Remineralization capacity and acid resistance following high-concentration fluoride varnish application were compared with untreated models and models treated with fluoride mouthwash. Bovine enamel was used to create a model of initial enamel caries. The high-concentration fluoride varnishes Enamelast and Clinpro White Varnish and the fluoride mouthwash Miranol were used. Specimens were evaluated using Contact Microradiography (CMR) and an Electron Probe Micro-Analyzer (EPMA). While a single application of high-concentration fluoride varnish and short-term fluoride mouthwash use did not appear to cause remineralization in the subsurface demineralized layer, improvements in acid resistance were observed, leading to reduced demineralization under subsequent acidic challenges. Full article

This study aimed to assess the antibiofilm effects of dentin desensitizers using a modified Robbins device flow cell system. The test desensitizers were Saforide, Caredyne Shield, and Clinpro White Varnish. Standardized dentin specimens were prepared from human single-rooted premolars, treated with one of the materials, and mounted on the modified Robbins device flow cell system. Streptococcus mutans biofilms were developed for 24 h at 37 °C under anaerobic conditions. Scanning electron microscopy, fluorescence confocal laser scanning microscopy, viable and total cell counts, acid production, and gene expression analyses were performed. A wavelength-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy electron probe microanalyzer was used to analyze the ion incorporations. Clinpro White Varnish showed the greatest inhibition, suggesting its suppression of bacterial adherence and transcription of genes related to biofilm formation. Saforide reduced only the number of viable bacteria, but other results showed no significant difference. The antibiofilm effects of Caredyne Shield were limited. The uptake of ions released from a material into dentin varies depending on the element. Clinpro White Varnish is effective for the short-term treatment of tooth sensitivity due to dentin demineralization. It prioritizes remineralization by supplying calcium and fluoride ions while resisting biofilm formation. Full article

Promising results were recently reported for hierarchical ion-exchange membranes, fabricated by the UV crosslinking of a thin functional coating on a porous substrate, on model NaCl solution demineralization by electrodialysis (ED). Hierarchical anion-exchange membranes (hAEMs) have never been tested with complex solutions to demonstrate their potential use in the biofood industry. The impact of three different crosslinking densities of the ion-exchange coating (EbN-1, EbN-2 and EbN-3) on the performances of whey demineralization by ED was investigated and compared with commercial AMX. The results showed that by increasing the coating crosslinking density, the membrane conductivity decreased, leading to an increase in the global system resistance during whey demineralization (from +28% to +64%). However, 18% sweet whey solutions were successfully treated until 70% demineralization for all membranes. The energy consumption (averaged EbN value of 14.8 vs. 15.1 Wh for AMX) and current efficiency (26.0 vs. 27.4%) were similar to the control. Potential fouling by non-protein nitrogen was detected by ATR-FTIR for hAEMs impacting some membranes properties and ED performances. Overall, EbN-1 obtained results were comparable with the benchmark and can be considered as an alternative membrane for whey demineralization by ED and other applications in the demineralization of complex products from the food industry. Full article

The removal of persistent organic micropollutants (OMPs) from secondary effluent in wastewater treatment plants is critical for meeting water reuse standards. Traditional treatment methods often fail to adequately degrade these contaminants. This study explored the efficacy of a hybrid ozonation membrane filtration (HOMF) process using CeO₂ and CeTiO_x-doped ceramic crossflow ultrafiltration ceramic membranes for the degradation of OMPs. Hollow ceramic membranes (CM) with a 300 kDa molecular weight cut-off (MWCO) were modified to serve as substrates for catalytic nanosized metal oxides in a crossflow and inside-out operational configuration. Three types of depositions were tested: a single layer of CeO₂, a single layer of CeTiO_x, and a combined layer of CeO₂ + CeTiO_x. These catalytic nanoparticles were distributed uniformly using a solution-based method supported by vacuum infiltration to ensure high-throughput deposition. The results demonstrated successful infiltration of the metal oxides, although the yield permeability and transmembrane flow varied, following this order: pristine > CeTiO_x > CeO₂ > CeO₂ + CeTiO_x. Four OMPs were examined: two easily degraded by ozone (carbamazepine and diclofenac) and two recalcitrant (ibuprofen and pCBA). The highest OMP degradation was observed in demineralized water, particularly with the CeO₂ + CeTiO_x modification, suggesting O₃ decomposition to hydroxyl radicals. The increased resistance in the modified membranes contributed to the adsorption phenomena. The degradation efficiency decreased in secondary effluent due to competition with the organic and inorganic load, highlighting the challenges in complex water matrices. Full article

Background. Enamel plays an essential role in protecting the underlying layers of the human tooth; therefore, preserving it is vital. This experimental study aimed to evaluate the potential ability of L. brevis to counteract the action of a demineralizing agent on dental enamel morphology and mineral composition in vitro. Methods. The sample consisted of 12 healthy human posterior teeth. The coronal portion of each tooth was subdivided into two equal parts longitudinally. The specimens were randomly divided into four groups: artificial saliva, L. brevis suspension, demineralizing agent (DA), and DA plus L. brevis. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) were used to evaluate the surface micromorphology and the mineral content, respectively. The statistical analysis was conducted using a one-way ANOVA, followed by Tukey’s post hoc test. Results. SEM analysis did not highlight significant changes in the enamel microstructure of L. brevis-treated specimens compared to the control. DA-induced damage to the enamel structure was drastically reduced when the specimens were contextually exposed to the probiotic. The treatment with DA substantially reduced the weight % of crucial enamel minerals, i.e., Ca and P. Notably, the probiotic was able to reverse the demineralization process, bringing Ca and P weight % back to basal levels, including the Ca/P ratio. Conclusions. The findings indicate that L. brevis is able to efficiently protect the dental enamel surface from the damage caused by DA and increase the enamel resistance to demineralization. Overall, L. brevis confirms its efficacy in preventing or counteracting the action of carious lesions through a novel mechanism that protects the tooth surface under a chemical challenge that mimics the caries process. Full article

Background: The effects of combining resistance training (RT) and concurrent training (CT; resistance + endurance training) with varied protein doses on bone measures remain poorly understood. Hence, we conducted a comparison of the impacts of two high-protein diets (1.6 or 3.2 g kg⁻¹ d⁻¹) over 16 weeks in resistance-trained males, either with CT or RT alone. Methods: A total of forty-eight males, all of whom were resistance-trained, had the following demographics: 26.6 ± 6 years, body mass index: 25.6 ± 2.9 kg m⁻² administered either 3.2 g kg⁻¹ d⁻¹ protein (CT2; n = 12; RT2; n = 12) or 1.6 g kg⁻¹ d⁻¹ protein (CT1; n = 12; RT1; n = 12) during 16 weeks (four sessions·w⁻¹). Bone parameters were assessed pre- and post-intervention. Results: There was no significant interaction between the intervention group and time for the legs, arms, ribs, or pelvis area BMC and BMD (p > 0.05). For the BMD of the pelvis and the BMC of the right ribs, however, there were significant time effects noted (p < 0.05). Furthermore, there was a significant interaction between the intervention group and time in the lumbar and thoracic spines, with a particular time effect noted for the thoracic spine region (p < 0.05). The regional differences in skeletal responses to the intervention are highlighted by these data. Conclusion: Our findings show that the intake of two high-protein diets combined with RT and CT during 16 weeks had no adverse effects on bone tissue parameters. While these findings indicate that protein intake between 2 and 3 times the current RDI does not promote bone demineralization when consumed in conjunction with exercise, future studies investigating the long-term effects of chronic high protein intake on bone tissue health are warranted. Full article

Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) is the main cariogenic bacterium with acidophilic properties, in part due to its acid-producing and -resistant properties. As a result of this activity, hard tooth structures may demineralize and form caries. Trans-cinnamaldehyde (TC) is a phytochemical from the cinnamon plant that has established antibacterial properties for Gram-positive and -negative bacteria. This research sought to assess the antibacterial and antibiofilm effects of trans-cinnamaldehyde on S. mutans. TC was diluted to a concentration range of 156.25–5000 μg/mL in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) 0.03–1%, an organic solvent. Antibacterial activity was monitored by testing the range of TC concentrations on 24 h planktonic growth compared with untreated S. mutans. The subminimal bactericidal concentrations (MBCs) were used to evaluate the bacterial distribution and morphology in the biofilms. Our in vitro data established a TC MBC of 2500 μg/mL against planktonic S. mutans using a microplate spectrophotometer. Furthermore, the DMSO-only controls showed no antibacterial effect against planktonic S. mutans. Next, the sub-MBC doses exhibited antibiofilm action at TC doses of ≥625 μg/mL on hydroxyapatite discs, as demonstrated through biofilm analysis using spinning-disk confocal microscopy (SDCM) and high-resolution scanning electron microscopy (HR-SEM). Our findings show that TC possesses potent antibacterial and antibiofilm properties against S. mutans. Our data insinuate that the most effective sub-MBC of TC to bestow these activities is 625 μg/mL. Full article

Laying hens can experience a progressive increase in bone fragility due to the ongoing mobilization of calcium from bones for eggshell formation. Over time, this escalates their susceptibility to bone fracture, which can reduce their mobility and cause pain. The provision of perches as an exercise opportunity could potentially enhance bone strength, but the timing of exposure to perches during the birds’ development may modulate its impact. The objective of this study was to investigate the enduring impacts of perch provision timing on the musculoskeletal health of laying hens. A total of 812 pullets were kept in different housing conditions (seven pens/treatment, 29 birds/pen) with either continuous access to multi-tier perches from 0 to 40 weeks of age (CP), no access to perches (NP), early access to perches during the rearing phase from 0 to 17 weeks of age (EP), or solely during the laying phase from 17 to 40 weeks of age (LP). At weeks 24, 36, and 40 of age (n = 84 birds/week), three birds per pen were monitored for individual activity level, and blood samples were collected from a separate set of three birds per pen to analyze serum levels of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5b (TRACP-5b) and C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX-I) as markers of bone demineralization. At 40 weeks of age, three birds per pen (n = 84) were euthanized for computed tomography scans to obtain tibial bone mineral density (BMD) and cross-sectional area (CSA) with further analysis including muscle deposition, tibial breaking strength, and tibial ash percent. During week 24, hens from CP, EP, and LP pens had the highest overall activity compared to hens from NP pens (p < 0.05) with no differences between treatments for overall activity level during weeks 36 or 40 (p > 0.05). During weeks 24, 36, and 40, hens from CP and LP pens showed greater vertical and less horizontal activity compared to hens from EP and NP pens (p < 0.05). TRACP-5b and CTX-I concentrations did not differ between treatments at week 24 of age (p > 0.05). Hens from CP pens had the lowest TRACP-5b and CTX-I concentrations at 36 weeks of age with EP and LP hens showing intermediate responses and NP hens having the highest concentration (p < 0.05). At 40 weeks of age, CP hens had the lowest TRACP-5b and CTX-I concentrations compared to NP hens (p < 0.05). Total bone CSA did not differ between treatments (p > 0.05), but CP had greater total BMD than NP (p < 0.05) with no differences between EP and LP treatments. CP and LP hens had larger biceps brachii, pectoralis major, and leg muscle groups as well as greater tibial breaking strengths than EP and NP treatments (p < 0.05). CP hens had higher tibial ash percentages compared to EP, LP, and NP (p < 0.05). Our results indicate that providing continuous perch access improves the musculoskeletal health and activity of laying hens at 40 weeks of age compared to no access and that late access to perches has a beneficial impact on activity, muscle deposition, and bone strength. Full article

Background: Graphene-based materials have great prospects for application in dentistry and medicine due to their unique properties and biocompatibility with tissues. The literature on the use of graphene oxide in orthodontic treatment was reviewed. Methods: This systematic review followed the PRISMA protocol and was conducted by searching the following databases: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane. The following search criteria were used to review the data on the topic under study: (Graphene oxide) AND (orthodontic) ALL FIELDS. For the Scopus database, results were narrowed to titles, authors, and keywords. A basic search structure was adopted for each database. Initially, a total of 74 articles were found in the considered databases. Twelve articles met the inclusion criteria and were included in the review. Results: Nine studies demonstrated the antibacterial properties of graphene oxide, which can reduce the demineralization of enamel during orthodontic treatment. Seven studies showed that it is biocompatible with oral tissues. Three studies presented that graphene oxide can reduce friction in the arch-bracket system. Two studies showed that it can improve the mechanical properties of orthodontic adhesives by reducing ARI (Adhesive Remnant Index). Three studies demonstrated that the use of graphene oxide in the appropriate concentration can also increase the SBS (shear bond strength) parameter. One research study showed that it can increase corrosion resistance. One research study suggested that it can be used to accelerate orthodontic tooth movement. Conclusion: The studies included in the systematic review showed that graphene oxide has numerous applications in orthodontic treatment due to its properties. Full article

The proximal caudal vertebrae and notochord in thick-toed geckos (TG) (Chondrodactylus turneri, Gray, 1864) were investigated after a 30-day space flight onboard the biosatellite Bion-M1. This region has not been explored in previous studies. Our research focused on finding sites most affected by demineralization caused by microgravity (G0). We used X-ray phase-contrast tomography to study TG samples without invasive prior preparation to clarify our previous findings on the resistance of TG’s bones to demineralization in G0. The results of the present study confirmed that geckos are capable of preserving bone mass after flight, as neither cortical nor trabecular bone volume fraction showed statistically significant changes after flight. On the other hand, we observed a clear decrease in the mineralization of the notochordal septum and a substantial rise in intercentrum volume following the flight. To monitor TG’s mineral metabolism in G0, we propose to measure the volume of mineralized tissue in the notochordal septum. This technique holds promise as a sensitive approach to track the demineralization process in G0, given that the volume of calcification within the septum is limited, making it easy to detect even slight changes in mineral content. Full article

This in vitro study aimed to evaluate the preventive action of topical fluoride application combined with laser irradiation under different pH conditions using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). A total of 180 samples of human dental enamel were prepared and divided into groups: Negative Control, Fluoride (FFA 12.300 µF⁻/g), Laser (Nd:YAG 84.9 J/cm²), and Laser + Fluoride (Nd:YAG 84.9 J/cm² + FFA 12.300 µF⁻/g). The pH cycling was performed at three different pH conditions: pH 5 (below the critical pH for hydroxyapatite), pH 4.5 (below the critical pH in the presence of fluorapatite), and pH 4 (investigating acid resistance of hydroxyapatite and fluorapatite forms with laser irradiation). In the FTIR analysis, the Laser + Fluoride group demonstrated statistically significant differences compared to the Negative Control group and Fluoride group at pH 4.5 and pH 4 when evaluating the phosphate bands. Similar results were observed in the SEM analysis, where the Laser + Fluoride group exhibited lower demineralization compared to the other treatments at pH 4.5 and pH 4. In conclusion, the Laser + Fluoride group demonstrated a significant reduction in demineralization even at pH levels below the critical threshold for fluorapatite, highlighting its superior acid resistance compared to fluoride alone. Full article