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The effectiveness of COVID-19 mRNA vaccines in individuals with periodontitis is crucial. This study evaluated the efficacy of the BNT162b2 vaccine in individuals with periodontitis who had been vaccinated at least 6 months earlier. Using real-time PCR, the association between the SARS-CoV-2 receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and miRNA-200c-3p and miRNA-421-5p as well as interleukin-6 (IL-6) was examined in the saliva of moderate (G1, n = 10) and severe (G2, n = 10) periodontitis subjects. Participants without periodontitis were included as a control group. The transcription levels of soluble ACE2 and IL-6 were higher in periodontitis participants than in control participants, but within periodontitis groups, only IL-6 expression was higher in G2 than in G1. A positive strong correlation between ACE2 and IL-6 was only observed in the G2 group (p = 0.008). The expression of miR-200c-3p but not miR-421-5p was higher in periodontitis individuals. Their relationship was positive but a strong correlation was only observed in the G2 group. In all periodontitis groups, a strong inverse correlation was observed between the two microRNAs and ACE2. However, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis showed that only the relationship between ACE2 and miR-4215p had potential as a biomarker for the efficacy of the mRNA vaccine, with areas under the ROC curve of 0.92 and 0.80 in the G1 and G2 groups, respectively. Our study revealed that active and non-active periodontitis conditions do not interfere with the efficacy of the BNT162b2 vaccine for at least 6 months post-vaccination. This suggests that in individuals with periodontitis, soluble ACE2 in the saliva may serve as a preliminary indicator of vaccine response.

It has been suggested that a corona virus infection is linked to chronic periodontitis (COVID-19). Our objectives were to look at the expression of angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE2) in periodontal compartments containing periodontal infections to determine if ACE2 is directly or indirectly responsible for the inflammation in periodontal tissues getting worse. In this study, six non-COVID-19 periodontitis patients without diabetes served as controls, and 23 hospitalized periodontitis patients were admitted with PCR-confirmed COVID-19 with diabetes mellitus (Group 1/G1, n = 10), and without diabetes (Group 2/G2, n = 13). We evaluated the mRNA expression of ACE2, IL-6, IL-8, complement C3, and LL-37, as well as the relative proportion of Porphyromonas gingivalis, Fusobacterium nucleatum, and Veillonella parvula to represent the dysbiosis condition in periodontal microenvironment using subgingival plaque and gingival crevicular fluids (GCF) samples and quantitative real time PCR (qPCR). Every analysis was done to ascertain how they related to one another. The area under the curve (AUC) and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve were used to determine the sensitivity and specificity of inflammatory indicators. All the grouped patients had ACE2 detected, according to our findings, but only the G1 patients had a positive correlation (p

Background The available evidence suggests that inflammatory responses, in both systemic and oral tissue, contribute to the pathology of COVID-19 disease. Hence, studies of inflammation biomarkers in oral fluids, such as saliva, might be useful to better specify COVID-19 features. Methods In the current study, we performed quantitative real-time PCR to measure salivary levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in saliva obtained from patients diagnosed with mild COVID-19, in a diabetic group (DG; n = 10) and a non-diabetic group (NDG; n = 13). All participants were diagnosed with periodontitis, while six participants with periodontitis but not diagnosed with COVID-19 were included as controls. Results We found increases in salivary total protein levels in both the DG and NDG compared to control patients. In both groups, salivary CRP and IL-6 levels were comparable. Additionally, the levels of salivary CRP were significantly correlated with total proteins, in which a strong and moderate positive correlation was found between DG and NDG, respectively. A linear positive correlation was also noted in the relationship between salivary IL-6 level and total proteins, but the correlation was not significant. Interestingly, the association between salivary CRP and IL-6 levels was positive. However, a moderately significant correlation was only found in COVID-19 patients with diabetes, through which the association was validated by a receiver operating curve. Conclusions These finding suggest that salivary CRP and IL-6 are particularly relevant as potential non-invasive biomarker for predicting diabetes risk in mild cases of COVID-19 accompanied with periodontitis.

Background: /Purposes: Studies have indicated that salivary molecules from patients with periodontitis and diabetes are confounded with pathological conditions associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection. The study aimed to address whether the abundance of Porphyromonas gingivalis which causes periodontitis, differed compared with that of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (used as control) and to analyze the correlation of periodontitis with the expression levels of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 receptor (ACE2) and periodontitis inflammatory markers (TLR-2/TLR-4, TNFα, and miR-155). Materials and Methods: A saliva sample (5 mL) was obtained from 23 hospitalized patients with COVID-19, categorized into two groups: diabetic (G1, n = 10) and non-diabetic (G2, n = 13). Saliva from patients with periodontitis without diabetes and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19; n = 6) were included as control. The quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction measured the levels of P. gingivalis and A. actinomycetemcomitans, as well as periodontitis markers in saliva. The obtained data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and the Spearman correlation test. Results: The abundance of P. gingivalis was observed to be higher (p

Pandemi covid-19 memberikan dampak yang sangat besar dalam berbagai aspek kehidupan terutama aspek pendidikan, dimana pembelajaran yang sebelumnya dilakukan secara konvensional harus dialihkan sepenuhnya pada pembelajaran daring (online). Untuk menunjang proses pembelajaran tersebut, dibutuhkan komponen-komponen pembelajaran lainnya seperti penggunaan media pembelajaran. Salah satu media yang digunakan dalam pembelajaran daring (online) dimasa pandemi covid-19 adalah pengunaan teknologi aplikasi google classroom, dengan harapan dapat memudahkan guru dalam mengelola pembelajaran dan menyampaikan materi secara tepat dan akurat, sehingga pembelajaran akan lebih mudah. Namun dalam prosesnya, terkadang penggunaan aplikasi teknologi google classroom tidak berjalan efektif sesuai dengan yang diharapkan. Sehingga perlu adanya kajian terkait bagaimana motivasi minat belajar siswa dalam proses pembelajaran melalui daring (online) dengan menggunakan aplikasi teknologi google classroom selama pandemi covid-19 sebagai bahan evaluasi dan langkah perbaikan dalam proses pembelajaran. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk menganalisa dan mengevaluasi penggunaan teknologi berbasis e-learning yaitu google classroom sebagai media pembelajaran terhadap motivasi minat belajar siswa pada pembelajaran Bahasa Inggris dimasa Pandemi covid-19. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode penelitian deskriptif kualitatif dan pendekatan kuantitatif dengan prosedur pengumpulan data menggunakan teknik observasi, wawancara, angket (kuesioner) dan dokumentasi.

Context.Proteins in the saliva are one of the defense mechanism factors that can protect the oral cavity from disease. However, smoking might affect the properties of saliva. Aim: To determine the differences in salivary protein profiles and total concentrations in smokers and non-smokers and their correlation with dental caries severity as indicated by the Decayed, Missing, Filled-Teeth (DMF-T) scores. Methods and material: This cross-sectional study included 25 smokers and 25 non-smokers. The DMF-T scores were recorded. The total salivary protein was measured by the Bradford method, and the profile proteins were determined by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). Results: The average of salivary protein concentration in smokers was lower than that in non-smokers (551.486 µg/mL versus 765.361 µg/mL), but the difference was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). Further correlation analyses showed a negative correlation between the concentration of proteins based on the extent of smoking. A weak negative correlation was found between protein concentration and DMF-T scores (r = −0.239). Dominant salivary protein bands of 11.6 kDa and 54.5 kDa were found in smokers and 27 kDa, 60 kDa, and 94.5 kDa were found in non-smokers. Conclusion: Different protein bands appeared in smokers and non-smokers. There was a weak correlation between protein concentration, DMF-T scores, and the extent of smoking.

Aging can change the ability to respond to various stimuli and physical conditions. A decreased immune response is a form of deterioration of function in older people, who then become more vulnerable when exposed to pathogens. Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease of the periodontal tissues that often occurs in older people. This study aimed to clinically analyze the periodontal status and cytokine levels of IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-10 in older people and adults with periodontitis. This clinical study examined 20 persons in a group of older people and 20 persons in a group of adults. The clinical measurements of periodontal status included the Simplified Oral Hygiene Index (OHI-S), Plaque Index (PlI), and Papilla Bleeding Index (PBI). The cytokine levels in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) were quantified by using ELISA kits. The OHI-S, PlI, and PBI were found to be higher in the older group. The mean values of cytokines were higher in the older group than in adults, although no statistically significant differences were found. A strong correlation was found between the clinical measurements and the cytokine levels in the GCF. There was an increasing tendency of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines in the older group compared to the adult group.

Background: A relationship between oral microbiota and susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection has been extensively studied. However, the relationship between oral commensal flora and expression of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) remains to be established. In this observational study, we collected saliva from patients with COVID-19 and evaluated the relationship between ACE2 expression and Candida albicans as well as with selected gram-negative bacteria (Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Fusobacterium nucleatum, and Veillonella parvula). We investigated how this may be directly or indirectly involved in oral dysbiosis in patients with COVID-19. Methods: We included 23 hospitalized patients admitted to Universitas Indonesia Hospital with PCR-confirmed COVID-19, with six healthy participants serving as controls. Saliva and tongue surface swabs were collected from patients with diabetes (DG) and without diabetes (NDG) and subject controls. Using quantitative PCR (qPCR) we assessed the mRNA expression of ACE2, the abundance of C. albicans, and the transcription levels of its biofilm-associated genes, agglutinin-like protein 3 (ALS3), hyphal wall protein 1 (HWP1), and yeast-form wall protein 1 (YWP1). We also counted the relative proportion of the three selected gram-negative oral bacteria in saliva. All analyses were performed to determine the relationship between ACE2 expression and C. albicans and gram-negative bacteria. Results: ACE2 mRNA expression was significantly higher in tongue swab samples than in saliva. However, no significant difference was observed between the patient groups. Conversely, DG patients had a significantly higher abundance of C. albicans in saliva compared to NDG patients and control group patients. The correlation and sensitivity/specificity relationship between ACE2 expression and C. albicans or the selected oral bacteria were also observed. Conclusions: The data show that ACE2 expression can be detected in saliva of patients with COVID-19 and its association with C. albicans and gram-negative oral bacteria might contribute toward developing an oral dysbiosis based predictor for prognosis of COVID-19 severity.

Background: A relationship between oral microbiota and susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection has been extensively studied. However, the relationship between oral commensal flora and expression of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) remains to be established. In this observational study, we collected saliva from patients with COVID-19 and evaluated the relationship between ACE2 expression and Candida albicans as well as with selected gram-negative bacteria (Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Fusobacterium nucleatum, and Veillonella parvula). We investigated how this may be directly or indirectly involved in oral dysbiosis in patients with COVID-19. Methods: We included 23 hospitalized patients admitted to Universitas Indonesia Hospital with PCR-confirmed COVID-19, with six healthy participants serving as controls. Saliva and tongue surface swabs were collected from patients with diabetes (DG) and without diabetes (NDG) and subject controls. Using quantitative PCR (qPCR) we assessed the mRNA expression of ACE2, the abundance of C. albicans, and the transcription levels of its biofilm-associated genes, agglutinin-like protein 3 (ALS3), hyphal wall protein 1 (HWP1), and yeast-form wall protein 1 (YWP1). We also counted the relative proportion of the three selected gram-negative oral bacteria in saliva. All analyses were performed to determine the relationship between ACE2 expression and C. albicans and gram-negative bacteria. Results: ACE2 mRNA expression was significantly higher in tongue swab samples than in saliva. However, no significant difference was observed between the patient groups. Conversely, DG patients had a significantly higher abundance of C. albicans in saliva compared to NDG patients and control group patients. The correlation and sensitivity/specificity relationship between ACE2 expression and C. albicans or the selected oral bacteria were also observed. Conclusions: The data show that ACE2 expression can be detected in saliva of patients with COVID-19 and its association with C. albicans and gram-negative oral bacteria might contribute toward developing an oral dysbiosis based predictor for prognosis of COVID-19 severity.

Objective: The studies on the influence of geographical and socio-economic factors on the oral microbiome remain underrepresented. The Indonesia basic health research (RISKESDAS) 2018, showed an increasing trend in non-communicable diseases compared with the previous report in 2013. The prevalence of diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, and obesity are reported to be higher in urban areas than in rural areas. Interestingly, non-communicable diseases were found to be more prevalent in women than men. This pilot study aimed to examine the oral health and oral microbiome derived from tongue samples of healthy Indonesian women from urban and rural areas.Methods: Twenty women aged 21–47 years old from West Jakarta, residents of DKI Jakarta (n = 10) as representative of the urban area, and residents of Ende, Nangapanda, East Nusa Tenggara (n = 10) as representative of the rural area were recruited for this pilot study. The participants were evaluated by the Simplified Oral Hygiene Index (OHI-S) according to the criteria of Greene and Vermillion and divided into three groups. High-throughput DNA sequencing was performed on an Illumina iSeq 100 platform.Results: The principal component analysis displayed a marked difference in the bacterial community profiles between the urban and rural localities. The presence of manifest was associated with increased diversity and an altered oral bacterial community profile in the urban women. Two bacterial taxa were present at significantly higher levels (adjusted p < 0.01) in the urban oral microflora (Genus Prevotella and Leptotricia) could account for this difference irrespective of the individual oral hygiene status. The linear discriminant analysis effect size (LEfSe) analysis revealed several distinct urban biomarkers. At the species level, Leptotrichia wadei, Prevotella melaninogenica, Prevotella jejuni, and P. histicola, show an excellent discriminatory potential for distinguishing the oral microflora in women between urban and rural areas. Further, using SparCC co-occurrence network analysis, the co-occurrence pattern in the dominant core oral microbiome assembly was observed to be specific to its ecological niche between two populations.Conclusions: This is the first pilot study demonstrating the characterization of the oral microbiome in Indonesian women in urban and rural areas. We found that the oral microbiome in women displays distinct patterns consistent with geographic locality. The specific characterization of the microbiota of Indonesian women is likely linked to geographical specific dietary habits, cultural habits, and socio-economic status or the population studied.

Background: Subgingival niche is one biofilm habitat containing rich microbiota, which plays an active role in maintaining the health of periodontal tissue and determining host response. As such, a study of changing subgingival biofilms is important for understanding the effect of a systemic condition. In this study, we compared the occurrence of six bacteria cohabiting in the subgingival area of periodontitis subjects, with (DP, n = 8) and without (NDP, n = 4) diabetes. Methods: The six genus and species of targeted bacteria were confirmed by 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing on MinION nanopore platform. Descriptive statistic was used to describe the obtained data. Results: We found that the six genus and species of targeted bacteria were detected but in different quantities in either group's periodontal pocket. Our data showed that Tannerella forsythia was the most abundant species in subgingival biofilms of the DP group of the red complex bacteria. In contrast, Aggregatibacter sp., which belongs to the phylum of proteobacteria, was present at a relatively lower level. In contrast, Fusobacterium sp., which belongs to orange complex bacteria, showed relative similarities in subgingival biofilms of both groups tested, while Veillonella sp., were abundant in the DP groups. Conclusions: Our data show that the diversity of classic periodontopathogens increased in the subgingival niche of periodontitis subjects with diabetes. It is the first study in Indonesia to apply MinION-based, full-length 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing in periodontitis patients with and without diabetes.

Background: Subgingival niche is one biofilm habitat containing rich microbiota, which plays an active role in maintaining the health of periodontal tissue and determining host response. As such, a study of changing subgingival biofilms is important for understanding the effect of a systemic condition. In this study, we compared the occurrence of six bacteria cohabiting in the subgingival area of periodontitis subjects, with (DP, n = 8) and without (NDP, n = 4) diabetes. Methods: The six genus and species of targeted bacteria were confirmed by 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing on MinION nanopore platform. Descriptive statistic was used to describe the obtained data. Results: We found that the six genus and species of targeted bacteria were detected but in different quantities in either group's periodontal pocket. Our data showed that Tannerella forsythia was the most abundant species in subgingival biofilms of the DP group of the red complex bacteria. In contrast, Aggregatibacter sp., which belongs to the phylum of proteobacteria, was present at a relatively lower level. In contrast, Fusobacterium sp., which belongs to orange complex bacteria, showed relative similarities in subgingival biofilms of both groups tested, while Veillonella sp., were abundant in the DP groups. Conclusions: Our data show that the diversity of classic periodontopathogens increased in the subgingival niche of periodontitis subjects with diabetes. It is the first study in Indonesia to apply MinION-based, full-length 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing in periodontitis patients with and without diabetes.

Porphyromonas gingivalis has virulence factors such as gingipain and lipopolysaccharide, causing bacteremia to reach the brain and activate neuroinflammatory release cytokines. This study analyzed the effect of the co-culture of neuron cells with P. gingivalis coated with anti-P. gingivalis antibodies against cytokines produced by neuron cells. The gene expressions of the TNF, IL1B, iNOS2 in neurons was evaluated using RT-qPCR. The results showed that P. gingivalis coated with anti-P. gingivalis antibody before co-culture with neuron cells could decrease the gene expression of TNF, IL1B, and iNOS2 of neuron cells.

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 has claimed thousands of lives worldwide. To enhance knowledge and awareness of COVID-19, considerable online resources have been made available, including aspects related to the dental profession. The study aim was to examine the knowledge, perception, and attitude of dental professionals in Indonesia toward COVID-19. We conducted a survey via a questionnaire created using Google docs and distributed to 632 members of the Indonesian Dental Association in the context of a webinar hosted by the Indonesian Oral Biology Association on first June, 2020.Materials and Methods: The questionnaire consisted of 17 items pertaining to demographic data, knowledge and virus identification, awareness regarding drugs commonly used in dentistry during pandemic and research opportunities. Participants were asked to complete the questionnaire after the webinar by choosing one answer to each question. For the analysis, participants were divided into three groups according to their professional background i.e., employment at national hospital, private hospital, or academic faculty. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and expressed as frequencies and percentages. The chi-square test was used to investigate the association between professional activity and the level of knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes about COVID-19.Results: Sixty percent of the participants correctly identified the pathogenesis of the disease. This knowledge was not associated with their professional affiliation (p = 0.95). Sixty-seven percentage had comprehensive knowledge about virus detection methods. This knowledge was not associated with their affiliation either (p = 0.54). Questions regarding drugs of choice, prevention, and the spread of COVID-19 were correctly answered by 89, 96, and 82% of the participants, respectively. Knowledge of these aspects were significantly associated with the professional affiliation (p < 0.05). All respondents were optimistic regarding research opportunities (p < 0.01). Respondents from academics were more interested in joining COVID-19-related research projects with governmental institutions (p < 0.01).Conclusion: Knowledge and awareness of COVID-19 among Indonesian dentists are reasonably good. However, further improvement would be beneficial to manage patients during this pandemic. As the number of COVID-19 cases continue to rise in Indonesia, it is important that dentists keep abreast of the updated knowledge on this moving field. Dentist knowledge on infection control should be strengthened through continuous educational programs.

Quantitative proteomic workflow based on mass spectrometry (MS) is recently developed by the researchers to screen for biomarkers in periodontal diseases comprising periodontitis. Periodontitis is known for chronic inflammatory disease characterized by progressive destruction of the tooth-supporting apparatus, yet has a lack of clear pathobiology based on a discrepancy between specified categories and diagnostic vagueness. The objective of this review was to outlined the accessible information related to proteomics studies on periodontitis. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematical Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) statement guides to acquaint proteomic analysis on periodontal diseases was applied. Three databases were used in this study, such as Pubmed, ScienceDirect and Biomed Central from 2009 up to November 2019. Proteomics analysis platforms that used in the studies were outlined. Upregulated and downregulated proteins findings data were found, in which could be suitable as candidate biomarkers for this disease.

Increasing evidence has shown an association between periodontitis and cognitive impairment. Subgingival microbiota play a great role in periodontitis pathogenesis. However, the correlation between the subgingival microbiome and cognitive impairment remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the red and orange complex subgingival microbiome of cognitively impaired and cognitively normal elderly Indonesian subjects with periodontitis. Twenty-eight elderly subjects diagnosed with periodontitis underwent two cognitive examinations using the Hopkins Verbal Learning Test and the Mini-Mental State Examination. Gingival crevicular fluid taken from the periodontal pocket, at a depth between 5 and 7 mm, using a paper point was used as the subgingival samples. The subgingival microbiome in the cognitive impairment group (n = 14) and cognitively normal group (n = 14) was compared using the 16S rRNA Metagenomic iSeq™ 100 Sequencing System. There was β-diversity in the subgingival microbiota between the cognitively impaired and cognitively normal subjects. The metagenomic analysis showed a higher abundance of Porphyromonas and Treponema bacteria in the cognitive impairment group than in the normal cognitive group (p < 0.05). The abundance of Porphyromonas gingivalis and Treponema denticola was higher in the cognitively impaired elderly subjects. The role of P. gingivalis and T. denticola in the pathogenesis of cognitive impairment needs further investigation.

Background: One of the most interesting effects of probiotics is their ability to modulate the immune system through the induction of cytokines and to enhance the host immune response. Aims: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effect of glycerol-supplemented Lactobacillus reuteri on the transcription level of interleukin (IL)-8 and human-beta-defensin (hBD)-2 expressed by epithelial cells after exposure to bacteria. Materials and Methods: The confluent-cultured HaCat cell line (105 cells/mL) was exposed to Streptococcus mutans ATCC-25175 and Porphyromonas gingivalis ATCC-33277 (107 colony-forming units [CFU]/mL) for 24 h and challenged with probiotic L. reuteri ATCC-55730 (107 CFU/mL) supplemented with glycerol. Subsequently, the transcription levels of IL-8 and hBD-2 in HaCat cells were analyzed using reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). In addition, cell viability was analyzed using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. All the obtained data were statistically analyzed using the one-way analysis of variance test, with P < 0.05 set as the level of significance. Results: The MTT assays confirmed no cytotoxic effects of glycerol-supplemented L. reuteri on HaCat cells (viability >90%). mRNA expression of IL-8 and hBD-2 increased after exposure to both bacteria. The presence of glycerol-supplemented L. reuteri significantly reduced the expression of IL-8 and hBD-2 on HaCat cells (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Glycerol-supplemented L. reuteri reduced the expression of IL-8 and hBD-2, and the results may be proof of principle for a probiotic approach to combating inflammation. However, further studies are needed to validate this probiotic effect.

Betle leaf (Piper betle L.) essential oil and catechu nut (Areca catechu L.) extracts have been known to be able to inhibit biofilm formation of S. mutans. This research aimed to characterize the chemical compounds of betle leaf esssential oil, screen the phytochemicals in catechu nut ethanol extract, and assess the inhibitory potential of betle and catechu in chewy candy on biofilm formation by S. mutans. The experiment included preparation of extracts and chemical characterization of the raw materials, formulation of chewy candy, measurement of biofilm inhibition, and sensory evaluation of the candy. In vitro examination for inhibitory potency of betle and catechu chewy candy against biofilm formation S. mutans ATCC 31987 was performed in adhesion phase (4 hours) and active accumulation phase (18 hours). Antibacterial assay was performed in BHI broth media on microplate 96 wells. Crystal violet 0.5% was used to stain the biofilm and Optical Density (OD) was measured at λ 450 nm. The GC-MS analysis detected 32 compounds in the essential oil of betle leaf. The Betle leaf essential oil contained chavicol acetate, isoeugenol, chavibetol acetate, chavicol, and allylcatechol 3.4-diacetate, while catechu nut ethanol extract contained flavonoids and tannins. The components were possibly the inhibitory agents of S. mutans biofilm formation. Chewy candy containing 0.8% betle leaf essential oil and 2.3% catechu nut extract had effective inhibitory potential for S. mutans biofilm formation. Inhibition during adhesion phase was 74.5±0.7%, while that for accumulation phase was 60.8±1.8%. Sensory analysis suggests that the candy was slightly liked by the panelists (5±2).

Abstract Objective We have previously demonstrated that unencapsulated Enterococcus faecalis cps2 inhibits biofilm formation of Candida albicans, a fungus commonly found with E. faecalis in periapical lesion. In this study, we compared encapsulated and unencapsulated E. faecalis cps2 strains relationship with osteoblastic (MG-63) cells, whereas E. faecalis ATCC 29212 were used as a reference strain. Results The binding capacity of E. faecalis to MG-63 cells as shown by each tested strain was comparable, but the unencapsulated strain was less invasive compared to the encapsulated and the reference strains. Moreover, quantitative real time-PCR (qPCR) results showed that infecting unencapsulated E. faecalis cps2 is a stronger stimulator for toll like receptor 2 (TLR2) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) mRNAs, but not for inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) mRNA in osteoblastic cells. In conclusion, the performance of unencapsulated E. faecalis cps2 when the bacterium interacts with osteoblastic cells is quite different from that of encapsulated E. faecalis cps2 and reference strains. It appears that the unencapsulated strain might contribute to the persistence of the periapical inflammatory response, depending on down-regulation of iNOS mRNA expression.

Abstract Aptamers that bind live bacterial cells have been widely investigated, but their potential to inhibit Candida albicans biofilm formation needs to be further explored. The aims of this study were to evaluate the binding of C. albicans to RNA aptamers and to examine the potential of aptamers to inhibit C. albicans biofilm formation in vitro. In this study, RNA aptamers selected against yeast cells of C. albicans ATCC 10231 were developed using the systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (SELEX) technique. The binding affinity of the resulting aptamers was then determined by an aptamer‐linked immobilized sorbent assay (ALISA), and a colorimetric (MTT) assay was used to measure the metabolic activity of Candida biofilms. After 11 rounds of SELEX, two candidate aptamers, Ca‐apt‐1 and Ca‐apt‐12, were identified. The Ca‐apt‐1 aptamer also recognized C. albicans isolated from clinical specimens but did not recognize other oral microorganisms (i.e., Streptococcus mutans and Saccharomyces cerevisiae). The ALISA results showed that the binding affinity of these aptamers was comparable to that of an anti‐C. albicans monoclonal antibody. In addition, Ca‐apt‐1 could inhibit biofilm and hyphal formation of C. albicans in vitro, as demonstrated using biofilm assays. This study shows that RNA aptamers could potentially be used in diagnostic and therapeutic applications for C. albicans‐related disease in the future.

Background/purpose: In the oral environment, Candida albicans interacts with many bacteria, including Enterococcus faecalis. We investigated the susceptibility of C. albicans biofilm development to the presence of unencapsulated E. faecalis cps2 in comparison with reference strains (E. faecalis ATCC 29212) or their respective spent medium (collected at 6 hours). Material and methods: Crystal violet stain was used to measure the total biofilm mass, whereas quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to analyze the change in expression of the mRNA of hypha morphology (ALS1 and ALS3) and biofilm maturation (EFB1). Results: At the intermediate stage, C. albicans resisted the presence of each E. faecalis strain tested and their spent medium. However, at the maturation stage, the unencapsulated strain was stronger in reducing C. albicans biofilms than the reference strain (P

This study was carried out to investigate the phenotype and genotype of E. faecalis isolated from the root canal and saliva of primary endodontic patients with periapical lesions. Eighteen adult male and female individuals suffering from primary endodontic infection, either had or had not periapical lesions, were involved in this study. Root canal scraping and saliva were collected from each subject and used for bacterial quantitation using a real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Enterococci were isolated using ChromAgar medium and then identified using both biochemical (Gram staining and catalase tests) and molecular biology (conventional PCR) methods. Gelatinase activity, polysaccharide capsul profile and mRNA ace expression level were determined using microbiological, biochemical and molecular biology approach, respectively. Genotype of E. faecalis was determined based on nucleotide sequence of ace and gelE genes analyzed using web-based 3730xl DNA Analyze software. The results showed that high proportion of E. faecalis found in both root canal and saliva of is related to the incidence of periapical lessions in the primary endodontic patients. This is contrast to the insignificant relationship found between Cps polymorphism, gelatinase activity, and mRNA ace expression with periapical lesions in the patients, respectively.DOI: 10.14693/jdi.v23i1.960

Background: The aim of this study was to analyze the synergistic relationship between Candida albicans and Streptococcus mutans in children with early childhood caries (ECC) experience. Methods: Dental plaque and unstimulated saliva samples were taken from 30 subjects aged 3-5 years old, half with (n=15, dmft > 4) and half without (n=15) ECC. The abundance of C. albicans and S. mutans and relative to total bacteria load were quantify by real-time PCR (qPCR). This method was also employed to investigate the mRNA expression of glycosyltransferase (gtfB) gene in dental plaque. Student’s t-test and Pearson’s correlation were used to perform statistical analysis. Results: Within the ECC group, the quantity of both microorganisms were higher in the saliva than in dental plaque. The ratio of C. albicans to total bacteria was higher in saliva than in plaque samples (p

Introduction: Early Childhood Caries (ECC) affects a significant proportion of the child population worldwide. Salivary proteins contain a host defense system that plays a role in the caries pathogenesis. Aim: To analyse the protein profile and salivary viscosity from ECC and caries-free subjects. Materials and Methods: The number of subjects included in the study was 16 ECC and 16 caries-free. Salivary viscosity was assessed visually and salivary protein profile was analysed using SDS PAGE. Results: The five most prominent protein bands with molecular mass 15 kDa, 25 kDa, 60 kDa, 65 kDa and 95 kDa were found in ECC patients with the frequency of occurrences in order 8, 3, 16, 6, 2 and caries-free subjects 14, 5, 16, 16, 9. The saliva viscosity of ECC patient was higher than the caries-free subjects. Conclusion: In ECC patients, the frequency of occurrences of salivary protein profile 15 kDa, 25 kDa, 65 kDa and 95 kDa were found less than in caries-free subjects. Meanwhile, protein profile 60 kDa has the same frequency of occurrence in ECC and caries-free subjects. Viscosity of ECC patient was higher than the caries-free subject.

Background: The aim of this study was to analyze the synergistic relationship between Candida albicans and Streptococcus mutans in children with early childhood caries (ECC) experience. Methods: Dental plaque and unstimulated saliva samples were taken from 30 subjects aged 3-5 years old, half with (n=15, dmft > 4) and half without (n=15) ECC. The abundance of C. albicans and S. mutans and relative to total bacteria load were quantify by real-time PCR (qPCR). This method was also employed to investigate the mRNA expression of glycosyltransferase (gtfB) gene in dental plaque. Student’s t-test and Pearson’s correlation were used to perform statistical analysis. Results: Within the ECC group, the quantity of both microorganisms were higher in the saliva than in dental plaque. The ratio of C. albicans to total bacteria was higher in saliva than in plaque samples (p

Heat Shock Proteins (HSP) are highly conserved immunoreactive group of proteins found in microorganisms and animal/human tissue. In addition to heat, other stressful conditiions also induce stressed proteins, especially anorexia, heavy metal ion, exposure to H2O2 and infection by DNA or RNA viruses. Recent studies suggest the involvement of HSPs as autoantigens in autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, Bechet's syndrome, recurrent oral uclers, oral lichen planus and other. The HSPs 60 - 65 KDa might be involved in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases such as Bechet's syndrome, recurrent oral ulcers, and oral lichen planus. This paper will discuss the immunopathogenesis mechanism of those diseases induced by HSPs.

The utilization of cajuput essential oil as a flavor in candy may produce a physiological active added value. Some compounds of cajuput plant (Melaleuca cajuputi L) have been reported for their anti-microbial activities. Candida albicans is a normal commensal organism in human mouth. However, it may become virulent and responsible for oral diseases known as oral candidiasis. This study aimed to determine the effect of cajuput and peppermint oil in cajuputs candy in inhibiting the C. albicans biofilms formation by using in vitro biofilm assay and viability assay. Furthermore, the influence of concentration of cajuput oil on the anti-microbial activities had been analyzed. All the tested concentration of cajuput oil in cajuputs candy was effective to inhibit the viability of C. albicans. The provision of flavor components of cajuput and peppermint oil could produce synergistic effects compared to a single flavor component. The addition of cajuput oil at 0.6% was able to inhibit the viability of C. albicans. The activities of the cajuput oil showed positive correlation to the concentration. The variable of plus and minus 0.1% addition of the cajuput oil concentration, however, produced no significant difference to inhibit the growth of C. albicans in biofilm. Sensory test, hedonic test, was conducted to evaluate the flavor, aroma, and overall attributes, resulting in no significant difference between 0.6 to 0.8% additions of cajuput oil upon the sensory acceptance.

Prevotella intermedia and Porphyromonas gingivalis are two of the specific microorganisms that frequently occurs in chronic periodontitis. As protein plays an important role in bacteria's life and its virulence factor, we tried to explore variation in P. intermedia and P. gingivalis cell protein profile which isolated from different periodontl pocket depth of chronic periodontitis patient. P. intermedia and P. gingivalis were identified using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) technique, and its protein profile were evaluated using Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate - Polyacrylamide Gel Electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). SDS-PAGE result showed that there were significant difference between protein profile of P. intermedia cell which isolated from slhallow and deep pocket with dominant proteins of molecular weight 200 kDa, 110 kDa, 40 kDa, and 25 kDa, however, relationship between pocket depth and P. intermedia cell protein pofile could not be concluded because unrepresentative number of P. intermedia colonies. In the other hand the variation in P. gingivalis cell protein profile was not influenced by pocket depth with dominant protein called hemin binding protein (HbBp).DOI: 10.14693/jdi.v17i1.110

Xylitol is reported to inhibit the growth of C. albicans. Objectives: Investigating serum factor role in inhibiting the growth of C. albicans and the effect of 1%, 5%, 10% xylitol on C. albicans resistance in serum in vitro. Methods: Identification of C. albicans (oral swab of candidiasis patient) was conducted using CHROMAgar, confirmed by germ tube test. The cultures were serially diluted, inoculated in Saburoud Dextrose Broth (SDB) contained 0% (control), 1%, 5%, or 10% xylitol, and kept for 3 or 7 days. These inoculations were then exposed to either active or inactive serum (Fetal Bovine Serum heated in 65ºC for 30 minutes) for 2 hours in 37ºC. The colony forming unit (CFU) of C. albicans in Saburoud Dextrose Agar (SDA) were counted after 2 days. C. albicans ATCC 10231 strain was used as a comparison. One-way ANOVA with 0.05 was used. Results: After 3 days cultured in media with or without xylitol, the CFU of C. albicans exposed to active serum were significantly lower than those exposed to inactive serum (p=0.032). Although not statistically significant (p=0.689), increased concentration of xylitol lead to increased resistance of C. albicans in active serum. Only 7 day exposure of 10% xylitol resulted in significantly higher growth of C. albicans (p=0.034). No significant difference of C. albicans CFU in active or inactive serum (p=0.404). Conclusion: Serum factor has role in inhibiting C. albicans growth in vitro. Exposure of 1%, 5%, or 10% xylitol for 3 or 7 days has no significant effect on C. albicans resistance in serum.DOI: 10.14693/jdi.v16i2.98

The growth of C. albicans is influenced by glucose intake. Xylitol is commonly used as sugar substitute. Reported effective concentrations of xylitol in reducing C. albicans growth in vitro were varied, 1%, 5%, and 10%. Objectives: Investigate the effect of different concentration and duration of xylitol exposure in inhibiting C. albicans growth in vitro. Method: Identification of C. albicans from oral swab of a male candidiasis patient was conducted using CHROMagar, confirmed by germ tube test. C. albicans suspension (108 cells/μl) were inoculated in SDB contained 1%, 5%, 10% xylitol, and without xylitol (as control), for 3 and 7 days, then incubated in 37oC on SDA and counted for their CFU after 48 hours. The C. albicans ATCC 10231 strain was used as a comparison. Results: After 3 days, increased concentration of xylitol (1%, 5%, 10%) lead to decrease growth of C. albicans, both the ATCC 10231 (125%; 51%; 14% respectively) and the clinical isolate (103%; 81%; 42%), p = 0.044. Significant lower growth of C. albicans compared to control were only seen in those exposed to 10% xylitol (p = 0.024). After 7 days, exposure of 1%, 5%, 10% xylitol did not significantly affect the growth of C. albicans (p = 0.396). Conclusion: The growth of C. albicans could be inhibited by 10% xylitol for 3 days.DOI: 10.14693/jdi.v16i1.12

High carbohydrate intake is one of predisposing factors of oral candidiasis. Objective: Investigating the effect of 1%,5%,10% glucose addition on the growth of C.albicans in vitro. Method: C.albicans sample was taken from oral swab of a male oral candidiasis patient. Identification of C.albicans was conducted using CHROMagar and confirmed by germ tube formation in serum. As a comparison, C.albicans ATCC10231 was used. After 2 days the cultures were serially diluted and inoculated in SDB without glucose, and with 1%,5%,10% addditional glucose, kept for 3 and 7 days in room temperature, then inoculated in SDA. The CFU/ml were counted after 2 days. ANOVA with α0.05 was used. Result: Statisticaly, additional 1% glucose for 3 days lead to significant decreased of growth of both clinical strain and ATCC 10231 C. albicans. However, only additional 5% and 10% glucose in clinical isolate for 7 days increased the growth of C.albicans significantly. Conclusion: The effect of additional glucose on the increased growth of C.albicans in vitro is influenced by the concentration, exposure duration of glucose, and by the strain of C.albicans.DOI: 10.14693/jdi.v16i1.14

Background: Elderly often suffer malnutrition and oral candidiasis. Candida albicans (C. albicans) which is the most prominent cause of oral candidiasis, is one of commensal oral micro-flora. Nutritional status affect the characteristic of saliva. Saliva is the regulator in the development of C. albicans from comensal into pathogen. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determining the correlation between elderly nutritional status with salivary total protein and its activity in inhibiting C. albicans growth and biofilm formation. Methods: Using mini nutritional assessment 30 elderly were classified into normal and malnutrition groups. Total protein of unstimulated saliva was measured using Bradford protein assay. The colony forming unit (CFU) of C. albicans was counted on 72 hours on SDA cultures without (control) or with 2 hour saliva exposure. Biofilm formation was analyzed from the optical density of 10–5 C. albicans suspension without saliva exposure (control) or with exposure of 10.000 μg/ml saliva and incubated in 37° C for 2 days. The suspension was put into 96 well plates, stained with crystal-violet dye, and analyzed using microplate reader. Differences between groups were analyzed using independent t-test or Kruskall-Wallis. Correlation between variables was analyzed using Spearman test. Results: Salivary total protein of normal elderly (1.113.5 ± 1.1143.3) was higher than those of malnutrition (613.6 ± 253.6) but not statistically significant (p > 0.05). The CFU of C. albicans exposed to saliva of normal samples (2.060 cfu/ml) was significantly lower than control (24.100 cfu/ml) and those exposed to malnutrition saliva (5.513.3 cfu/ml). C. albicans biofilm formation is highest in controls (0.177), lower in those exposed to malnourished saliva (0.151) and lowest in those exposed to saliva of good nourished elderly (0.133). Conclusion: Although does not cause significant decrease of salivary total protein, malnutrition in elderly results in lower capacity of saliva in inhibiting the growth and declining the virulence of C. albicans.Latar belakang: Lansia sering menderita malnutrisi dan kandidiasis oral. Candida albicans yang merupakan penyebab utama terjadinya candidiasis, adalah salah satu mikroflora rongga mulut yang bersifat konvensional. Malnutrisi memengaruhi karakteristik saliva. Saliva merupakan regulator utama perkembangan Candida albicans (C. albicans) dari sifat konvensional menjadi bersifat patogen.Tujuan: Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk menentukan korelasi antara status gizi lansia dengan total protein dan aktivitas saliva dalam menghambat pertumbuhan dan pembentukan biofilm C. albicans. Metode: Menggunakan mini nutritional assessment, 30 lansia diklasifikasikan menjadi kelompok gizi baik dan gizi buruk. Total protein unstimulated saliva diukur dengan metode Bradford protein assay. Colony forming unit (CFU) dihitung pada kultur C. albicans pada saburaud dextrose agar (SDA) berusia 72 jam yang sebelumnya telah dipaparkan saliva selama 2 jam. Kontrol adalah kultur C. albicans tanpa paparan saliva. Pembentukan biofilm adalah pengukuran optical density suspensi 10–5 C. albicans tanpa paparan saliva (kontrol) atau dengan paparan saliva 10.000 μg/ml dan diinkubasi pada suhu 37° C selama 2 hari. Suspensi tersebut kemudian dimasukkan ke dalam 96 well plates, diberi pewarna crystal violet, dan diukur menggunakan microplate reader. Analisis data menggunakan uji beda t Independen atau Kruskall-Wallis, dan uji korelasi Spearman. Hasil: Total protein saliva lansia gizi baik (1.113,5 ± 1.1143,3) lebih tinggi dari lansia gizi buruk (613,6 ± 253,6) tetapi tidak bermakna secara statistik (p > 0,05). Pembentukan koloni C. albicans yang terpapar saliva lansia gizi baik (2.060 cfu/ml) secara signifikan lebih rendah dari kontrol (24.100 cfu/ml) dan daripada yang terpapar saliva lansia gizi buruk (5.513,3 cfu/ml). Pembentukan biofilm C. albicans tetinggi pada kontrol (0,177), lebih rendah pada yang terpapar saliva gizi buruk (0,151) dan terrendah pada yang terpapar saliva gizi baik (0,133). Kesimpulan: Meskipun malnutrisi tidak menyebabkan penurunan total protein saliva lansia, tetapi menurunkan kapasitasnya dalam menghambat pertumbuhan dan mengurangi virulensi C. albicans.

Experimental studies have shown that dental pulp tissue has potential to regenerate dentine in response to adverse stimuli, such as caries and associated operative procedures. However, the potential of dental pulp regeneration seems to be limited by regenerative capacity of the cell involved. In this study, we report the effect of transfection of a recombinant plasmid containing human BMP-2 gene in proliferation and differentiation of dental pulp tissue in vitro. The regenerative capacity was analyzed by ALP production and calcium content. Results showed that the transfected dental pulp cell was able to differentiate into the odontoblast phenotype, indicating the presence of odontoblast progentitor cells in dental pulp tissue.

Background: Dental caries remains as main problem in Indonesia and its prevalence is high (90.05%). However, there is no appropriate data that can be used to analyze dental caries in toddlers, especially baby bottle tooth decay syndrome (BBTD), though the number of BBTD cases is high in some pediatric dental clinics (90% of patients visiting the clinics). Even though some factors have already been considered to be the risk factor of BBTD, the main risk factor of BBTD is still unknown, especially BBTD in Indonesia. Purpose: This research was aimed to obtain data relating with bottle-feeding habit in 3-5 year old children in Indonesia and its caries risk. Method: The study was an observational research conducted with clinical examination through caries status (deft) of each child deserved by pediatric dentists and through questionnaire distributed to parents to examine the risk factor of BBTD. Observation was conducted on 62 children in the range of age 3 to 5 years old with bottle-feeding habit. Result: The results revealed that status of caries was various. The data showed that the frequency of bottle feeding more than twice could trigger BBTD 2.27 times higher than other factors such as the use of bottle feeding as a pacifier prior sleeping, the period of bottle-feeding, and the breast-feeding experience. Conclusion: though milk as subtract can possibly become a factor triggering caries, the frequency of bottle-feeding is highly considered as main factor. Since it could modulated the bacterial colonization on dental surface, which affects its virulence.Latar belakang: Karies masih menjadi masalah utama di Indonesia. Dalam praktek sehari-hari prevalensi karies masih sangat tinggi (90.05%). Belum ada data yang memadai dalam penelaahan karies yang spesifik pada anak balita selama ini khususnya kasus sindroma karies botol (SKB) sementara itu kasus SKB ditemukan sangat tinggi di beberapa klinik gigi anak (90% dari jumlah pasien yang datang ke klinik). Beberapa faktor menjadi resiko kejadian SKB dan belum diketahui faktor resiko utama kejadian karies khususnya di Indonesia. Tujuan: Penelitian ini dilakukan guna mendapatkan data yang berhubungan dengan kebiasaan minum susu botol pada anak usia 3-5 tahun di Indonesia serta resiko kejadian karies yang ditimbulkannya. Metode: Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian observasional yang dilakukan dengan metode pemeriksaan klinis melalui pencatatan status karies (deft) setiap anak oleh dokter gigi anak serta pengisian kuesioner yang dilakukan oleh orang tua untuk menentukan faktor resiko kejadian SKB. Pengamatan dilakukan pada 62 orang anak usia 3-5 tahun yang mempunyai kebiasaan minum susu botol sesuai dengan kriteria inklusi. Hasil: Hasil pemeriksaan klinis dan kuesioner memberikan gambaran status karies yang bervariasi. Data yang didapat dari penelitian ini menjelaskan, bahwa frekuensi minum susu botol lebih dari dua kali menyebabkan SKB 2.27 kali lebih besar dibandingkan dengan beberapa faktor lain, seperti menjadikannya pengantar tidur, lamanya mengonsumsi, dan riwayat minum ASI. Kesimpulan: Susu sebagai subtrat mungkin dapat dijadikan alasan kejadian karies akan tetapi yang menjadi resiko utama kejadian adalah frekuensi konsumsi susu botol itu sendiri. Kondisi ini dapat dihubungkan dengan modulasi substrat terhadap perkembangan kolonisasi bakteri di permukaan gigi, sehingga secara tidak langsung juga mempengaruhi virulensinya.

Background: Streptococcus mutans are gram positive bacteria classified into viridians group, and have a role in pathogenesis of dental caries. It’s adhesion to the tooth surface is mediated by cell surface proteins, which interact with specific receptor located in tooth pellicle. Glucan binding protein, Glukosyltransferase, and antigen I/II are basic proteins of S. mutans, which have a role in initiating the interaction. A previous study showed that chicken’s IgY can interfere the interaction. Purpose: The objective of this study was to assess the ability of IgY in recognizing the surface molecule of Streptococcus mutans expressed by various serotypes (c, d, e, f) and a strain derived from IPB, Bogor. Method: Western blot was used as a method to determine such capability. Result: The result showed that IgY has a potency to recognize antigen I/II, but not the other proteins on the cell surface of all bacteria tested. Conclusion: The ability of IgY to bind the surface protein, antigen I/II, indicates that this avian antibody could be used as a candidate for anti-adhesion in preventing dental caries.

Quorum sensing systems has been identified as one of mechanism carried out by numerous Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria to coordinate virulence and biofilm development. Using quorum sensing bacterial colonies synchronize gene expression and phenotype change allowing them to protect their niche. The purpose of this review is to present a synopsis of the literature on bacterial quorum sensing and we highlight the role of specific signaling molecules that might be used as a target of inhibitor agent in dental preventive perspective.

Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, a Gram-negative bacterium, and Candida albicans, a polymorphic fungus, are both commensals of the oral cavity but both are opportunistic pathogens that can cause oral diseases. A. actinomycetemcomitans produces a quorum-sensing molecule called autoinducer-2 (AI-2), synthesized by LuxS, that plays an important role in expression of virulence factors, in intra- but also in interspecies communication. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of AI-2 based signaling in the interactions between C. albicans and A. actinomycetemcomitans. A. actinomycetemcomitans adhered to C. albicans and inhibited biofilm formation by means of a molecule that was secreted during growth. C. albicans biofilm formation increased significantly when co-cultured with A. actinomycetemcomitans luxS, lacking AI-2 production. Addition of wild-type-derived spent medium or synthetic AI-2 to spent medium of the luxS strain, restored inhibition of C. albicans biofilm formation to wild-type levels. Addition of synthetic AI-2 significantly inhibited hypha formation of C. albicans possibly explaining the inhibition of biofilm formation. AI-2 of A. actinomycetemcomitans is synthesized by LuxS, accumulates during growth and inhibits C. albicans hypha- and biofilm formation. Identifying the molecular mechanisms underlying the interaction between bacteria and fungi may provide important insight into the balance within complex oral microbial communities.

Background The available evidence suggests that inflammatory responses, in both systemic and oral tissue, contribute to the pathology of COVID-19 disease. Hence, studies of inflammation biomarkers in oral fluids, such as saliva, might be useful to better specify COVID-19 features. Methods In the current study, we performed quantitative real-time PCR to measure salivary levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in saliva obtained from patients diagnosed with mild COVID-19, in a diabetic group (DG; n = 10) and a non-diabetic group (NDG; n = 13). All participants were diagnosed with periodontitis, while six participants with periodontitis but not diagnosed with COVID-19 were included as controls. Results We found increases in salivary total protein levels in both the DG and NDG compared to control patients. In both groups, salivary CRP and IL-6 levels were comparable. Additionally, the levels of salivary CRP were significantly correlated with total proteins, in which a strong and moderate positive correlation was found between DG and NDG, respectively. A linear positive correlation was also noted in the relationship between salivary IL-6 level and total proteins, but the correlation was not significant. Interestingly, the association between salivary CRP and IL-6 levels was positive. However, a moderately significant correlation was only found in COVID-19 patients with diabetes, through which the association was validated by a receiver operating curve. Conclusions These finding suggest that salivary CRP and IL-6 are particularly relevant as potential non-invasive biomarker for predicting diabetes risk in mild cases of COVID-19 accompanied with periodontitis.

Background: The available evidence suggests that inflammatory responses, in both systemic and oral tissue, contribute to the pathology of COVID-19 disease. Hence, studies of inflammation biomarkers in oral fluids, such as saliva, might be useful to better specify COVID-19 features. Methods: In the current study, we performed quantitative real-time PCR to measure salivary levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in saliva obtained from patients diagnosed with mild COVID-19, in a diabetic group (DG; n = 10) and a non-diabetic group (NDG; n = 13). All participants were diagnosed with periodontitis, while six participants with periodontitis but not diagnosed with COVID-19 were included as controls. Results: We found increases in salivary total protein levels in both the DG and NDG compared to control patients. In both groups, salivary CRP and IL-6 levels were comparable. Additionally, the levels of salivary CRP were significantly correlated with total proteins, in which a strong and moderate positive correlation was found between DG and NDG, respectively. A linear positive correlation was also noted in the relationship between salivary IL-6 level and total proteins, but the correlation was not significant. Interestingly, the association between salivary CRP and IL-6 levels was positive. However, a moderately significant correlation was only found in COVID-19 patients with diabetes, through which the association was validated by a receiver operating curve. Conclusions: These finding suggest that salivary CRP and IL-6 are particularly relevant as potential non-invasive biomarker for predicting diabetes risk in mild cases of COVID-19 accompanied with periodontitis.

Background: The available evidence suggests that inflammatory responses, in both systemic and oral tissue, contribute to the pathology of COVID-19 disease. Hence, studies of inflammation biomarkers in oral fluids, such as saliva, might be useful to better specify COVID-19 features. Methods: In the current study, we performed quantitative real-time PCR to measure salivary levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in saliva obtained from patients diagnosed with mild COVID-19, in a diabetic group (DG; n = 10) and a non-diabetic group (NDG; n = 13). All participants were diagnosed with periodontitis, while six participants with periodontitis but not diagnosed with COVID-19 were included as controls. Results: We found increases in salivary total protein levels in both the DG and NDG compared to control patients. In both groups, salivary CRP and IL-6 levels were comparable. Additionally, the levels of salivary CRP were significantly correlated with total proteins, in which a strong and moderate positive correlation was found between DG and NDG, respectively. A linear positive correlation was also noted in the relationship between salivary IL-6 level and total proteins, but the correlation was not significant. Interestingly, the association between salivary CRP and IL-6 levels was positive. However, a moderately significant correlation was only found in COVID-19 patients with diabetes, through which the association was validated by a receiver operating curve. Conclusions: These finding suggest that salivary CRP and IL-6 are particularly relevant as potential non-invasive biomarker for predicting diabetes risk in mild cases of COVID-19 accompanied with periodontitis.

Vision, mission, goals, and objectives (VMGOs) function as the foundation of an educational institution. The Accrediting Agency for Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACCUP) underscored that an educational institution is assessed according to the degree how its VMGOs are achieved, but not in comparison with others. This descriptive cross-sectional survey research was used to gauge the level of awareness and acceptability of the stakeholders on the PRMSU vision statement and mission and the goals and objectives (VMGO) of the Communication and Information Technology Programs of PRMSU Sta Cruz Campus. The stakeholders are “very much aware” of the university’s new vision statement, mission, goals, and objectives of the teacher education program, they have full participation in the revision of the vision statement. The VMGO is clear, understandable, and acceptable as perceived by the stakeholders. Massive information dissemination of the new vision statement in all media types is recommended. Furthermore, stakeholders must be encouraged to share their part in realizing the university’s VMGO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research disclosed the narrative of a police evangelist facilitating the moral recovery among offenders. Researchers utilized a qualitative single-case study design, employing one police officer who conducts spiritual services inside jail facilities chosen through a purposive sampling technique. This study aimed to motivational factors, experiences, and insights of the police-evangelist in journeying towards moral recovery among offenders. Researchers gathered the data through an in-depth interview and analyzed the data using thematic analysis to create themes and core ideas. Three emerging themes were created on the motivational factors of the police evangelist: driven by faith and compassion, responding to the call, and PDL’s eagerness to be taught. Four themes emerged from the experiences of the police evangelist: conduct of spiritual services, getting support, joy in changing one’s life, happiness and fulfillment, and dealing with PDL’s different emotions. Three emerging themes were found in the insights of the police evangelist: volunteerism in sharing God’s words, God’s words change lives, and doing what you learned. This study substantiates the Social Learning Theory. Practical implications for the police officers, police stations, jail facilities, religious groups, and local government units were presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]