Background: Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are small, naturally occurring molecules that are integral components of the innateimmune system across many organisms. In humans, saliva is rich in various AMPs that play a pivotal role in maintaining oral health by serving as the primary line of defense in the oral cavity. These peptides are essential for protection against a broad spectrum of pathogens, including bacteria and fungi. Recently, active research has been conducted on both naturally occurring AMPs and modified or synthetic AMPs for the treatment of oral pathogens and their application in dental materials. Methods: We compiled previous studies on AMPs present in saliva and their target oral microorganisms. Additionally, wesummarized research on artificially created AMPs targeting oral pathogens. Furthermore, we analyzed recent trends in applied studies, such as the development of oral rinses, toothpaste, and implant coatings using AMPs. Results: Through a literature review, we identified 19 studies on AMPs present in the oral cavity and 40 studies testing AMPs derivedfrom other organisms or synthetically engineered against oral pathogens. Additionally, we reviewed seven studies on the development of implant coatings and oral hygiene material additives using AMPs. These findings suggest the potential for discovering or developing AMPs with activity against specific oral pathogens that can be applied to improve oral health. Conclusion AMPs exhibit broad antimicrobial activity against a wide range of pathogens. Their mechanisms of action primarilyinvolve attacking and disrupting the cell membranes of target microorganisms, making them effective against various pathogens.AMPs have the potential for use as coating materials for dental implants or restorative materials that require long-term use.Further research is needed to investigate the cytotoxicity, durability, and stability of AMPs in the oral environment to support their clinical use in dentistry.

Background: Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are small, naturally occurring molecules that are integral components of the innateimmune system across many organisms. In humans, saliva is rich in various AMPs that play a pivotal role in maintaining oral health by serving as the primary line of defense in the oral cavity. These peptides are essential for protection against a broad spectrum of pathogens, including bacteria and fungi. Recently, active research has been conducted on both naturally occurring AMPs and modified or synthetic AMPs for the treatment of oral pathogens and their application in dental materials. Methods: We compiled previous studies on AMPs present in saliva and their target oral microorganisms. Additionally, wesummarized research on artificially created AMPs targeting oral pathogens. Furthermore, we analyzed recent trends in applied studies, such as the development of oral rinses, toothpaste, and implant coatings using AMPs. Results: Through a literature review, we identified 19 studies on AMPs present in the oral cavity and 40 studies testing AMPs derivedfrom other organisms or synthetically engineered against oral pathogens. Additionally, we reviewed seven studies on the development of implant coatings and oral hygiene material additives using AMPs. These findings suggest the potential for discovering or developing AMPs with activity against specific oral pathogens that can be applied to improve oral health. Conclusion AMPs exhibit broad antimicrobial activity against a wide range of pathogens. Their mechanisms of action primarilyinvolve attacking and disrupting the cell membranes of target microorganisms, making them effective against various pathogens.AMPs have the potential for use as coating materials for dental implants or restorative materials that require long-term use.Further research is needed to investigate the cytotoxicity, durability, and stability of AMPs in the oral environment to support their clinical use in dentistry.

Background: Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are small, naturally occurring molecules that are integral components of the innateimmune system across many organisms. In humans, saliva is rich in various AMPs that play a pivotal role in maintaining oral health by serving as the primary line of defense in the oral cavity. These peptides are essential for protection against a broad spectrum of pathogens, including bacteria and fungi. Recently, active research has been conducted on both naturally occurring AMPs and modified or synthetic AMPs for the treatment of oral pathogens and their application in dental materials. Methods: We compiled previous studies on AMPs present in saliva and their target oral microorganisms. Additionally, wesummarized research on artificially created AMPs targeting oral pathogens. Furthermore, we analyzed recent trends in applied studies, such as the development of oral rinses, toothpaste, and implant coatings using AMPs. Results: Through a literature review, we identified 19 studies on AMPs present in the oral cavity and 40 studies testing AMPs derivedfrom other organisms or synthetically engineered against oral pathogens. Additionally, we reviewed seven studies on the development of implant coatings and oral hygiene material additives using AMPs. These findings suggest the potential for discovering or developing AMPs with activity against specific oral pathogens that can be applied to improve oral health. Conclusion AMPs exhibit broad antimicrobial activity against a wide range of pathogens. Their mechanisms of action primarilyinvolve attacking and disrupting the cell membranes of target microorganisms, making them effective against various pathogens.AMPs have the potential for use as coating materials for dental implants or restorative materials that require long-term use.Further research is needed to investigate the cytotoxicity, durability, and stability of AMPs in the oral environment to support their clinical use in dentistry.

Background: Recent studies have elucidated the quorum-sensing mechanisms, biofilm formation, inter-pathogen interactions,and genes related to oral pathogens. This review aims to explore the recent expansion of drug targets against oral pathogens and summarize the current research on novel antibiotic substances derived from marine organisms that target oral pathogens. Methods: A comprehensive literature review summarized the novel mechanisms pertaining to quorum-sensing signal transmission systems, biofilm formation, and metabolite exchange in oral pathogens. The amino acid sequences of the 16 proteins identified as potential drug targets were systematically classified and compared across various oral microorganisms. Results: Through a literature review, we identified nine studies researching quorum sensing signaling inhibitors targeting oral pathogens. A comparison of the amino acid sequences of 16 potential drug targets in oral microorganisms revealed significant differences between oral pathogens and beneficial oral symbiotic microorganisms. These findings imply that it is possible to design drugs that can bind more selectively to oral pathogens. Conclusion By summarizing the results of recent research on the signaling mechanisms that cause pathogenicity, new drug targets against oral pathogens were proposed. Additionally, the current status of developing new antibiotics for oral pathogens using recently developed quorum sensing inhibitors and natural products derived from marine organisms was introduced.Consequently, marine natural products can be used to develop drugs targeting new proteins in oral pathogens.

Background: In the Rivaroxaban Once-daily oral direct factor Xa inhibition Compared with vitamin K antagonism for prevention of stroke and Embolism Trial in Atrial Fibrillation (ROCKET AF) trial, rivaroxaban 20 mg was the on-label dose, and the dose-reduction criterion for rivaroxaban was a creatinine clearance of < 50 mL/min. Some Asian countries are using reduced doses label according to the J-ROCKET AF trial. The aim of this study was to assess the safety and efficacy of a high-dose rivaroxaban regimen (HDRR, 20/15 mg) and low-dose rivaroxaban regimen (LDRR, 15/10 mg) among elderly East Asian patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) in real-world practice. Methods: This study was a multicenter, prospective, non-interventional observational study designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of rivaroxaban in AF patients > 65 years of age with or without renal impairment. Results: A total of 1,093 patients (mean age, 72.8 ± 5.8 years; 686 [62.9%] men) were included in the analysis, with 493 patients allocated to the HDRR group and 598 patients allocated to the LDRR group. A total of 765 patients received 15 mg of rivaroxaban (203 in the HDRR group and 562 in the LDRR group). There were no significant differences in the incidence rates of major bleeding (adjusted hazard ratio [HR], 0.64; 95% confidential interval [CI], 0.21–1.93), stroke (adjusted HR, 3.21; 95% CI, 0.54–19.03), and composite outcomes (adjusted HR, 1.13;95% CI, 0.47–2.69) between the HDRR and LDRR groups. Conclusion This study revealed the safety and effectiveness of either dose regimen of rivaroxaban in an Asian population for stroke prevention of AF. Considerable numbers of patients are receiving LDRR therapy in real-world practice in Asia. Both regimens were safe and effective for these patients.

Background: This study aimed to determine the skeletal and dental effects in pediatric and adolescent Korean patients with ClassII Division 1 malocclusion treated using the Invisalign Mandibular Advancement (MAⓇ ) appliance. Methods: The study included patients aged 6 to 18 years who received orthodontic treatment with the MAⓇ appliance for Class II Division 1 malocclusion at the Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Wonkwnag University Daejeon Dental Hospital, between July 1, 2018, and December 31, 2021. The treatment group consisted of 20 patients, 10 boys and 10 girls. The control participants were also 10 boys and 10 girls. Lateral cephalometric radiographs were taken before and after treatment, and 41 measurements of skeletal and dental changes were measured and analyzed using the V-CephTM 8.0 (Osstem Implant). All analyses were performed using SPSS software (IBM SPSS for Windows, ver 26.0; IBM Corp.), and statistical significance was tested using paired and independent samples t-tests for within-group and between-group comparisons, respectively. Results: The patients in the treatment group showed significant decreases in ANB (A point, Nasion, B point), maxillary protrusion,maxillary anterior incisor labial inclination, and maxillary protrusion after treatment. However, when compared with the growth changes observed in the control group, only ANB and maxillary protrusion decreased, with no significant differences in SNA, SNB, and mandibular length. Conclusion Collectively, the results of this study confirm that the use of MAⓇ appliance in pediatric and adolescent Korean patients with Class II Division 1 malocclusion results in a reduction of anteroposterior skeletal and dental disharmony.

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of a prefabricated functional appliance (MyobraceⓇ ) on skeletal, dental, and soft tissue components in children with Class II, division 1 malocclusion. Methods: Thirteen patients with Class II, division 1 malocclusion (9 girls and 4 boys; mean age, 8.2±0.9 years at the start and 9.3±1.0 years at the end of the treatment) were treated with MyobraceⓇ for a mean period of 12.9±4.0 months. Patients were instructed to use the appliance daily for 1 hour and overnight while sleeping. A control group of 10 patients with untreated Class II, division 1 malocclusion (3 girls and 7 boys; mean age, 9.0±1.6 years at the start and 10.4±2.1 years at the end of the observation) was included to eliminate possible growth effects. The mean observation period for this group was 17.7±11.2 months. Lateral cephalograms were taken at the start and end of the treatment, and findings from 41 measurements were analyzed using the V-CephTM program. The mean and standard deviation of cephalometric measurements were analyzed using paired and independent sample t-tests. Results: The treatment group showed significant changes in SNB, ANB, maxillary protrusion, ramus height, proclination of upper anterior teeth, interincisal angle, overjet, and upper lip protrusion compared with the control group. However, only decrease in ANB, maxillary protrusion, overjet, upper lip protrusion, and increase in interincisal angle were significantly higher in the treatment group than in the control group. Conclusion The prefabricated functional appliance induced skeletal, dentoalveolar, and soft tissue changes, resulting in a significant reduction in anteroposterior discrepancy.

Background: In our study, a silver diamine fluoride (SDF) compound for the treatment of dental caries was synthesized to characterize its remineralization activity upon direct application to deciduous teeth. This study aimed to use microscopic computed tomography (microCT) and nanoindentation to evaluate whether SDF composite application could effectively arrest dental caries in five exfoliated primary molars. Methods: Carious teeth were extracted and visually examined using quantitative photofluorescence devices (Qraycam and QraypenTM). After performing microCT, the SDF composite was applied to the teeth according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The researchers exchanged and precipitated the irritant saliva once daily for 1 week. The teeth were sectioned longitudinally through the centers of the mesial and distal surfaces, embedded, polished, and measured using nanoindentation. Thereafter, microCT was repeated. Statistical analyses were performed using GraphPad Prism software. Results: Following SDF composite application, a remineralized layer was observed on microCT images, and the hardness increased when measured using nanoindentation. We found that demineralized enamel presented with an increased number of irregular crystals in the deep carious lesion group compared with those in the shallow carious lesion group, resulting in a rougher surface. Conclusion The SDF composite may be used for remineralization of early caries and cessation of advanced caries in primary molars.

Purpose: Healthy aging is an important concern in an aging society. Although the causal relationship between hypogonadism and erectile dysfunction in elderly men remains unclear, many physicians have achieved positive results after implementing exogenous testosterone supplementation therapy in patients with normal or slightly low blood testosterone. The purpose of this study was to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis on whether testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) could improve sexual function in the elderly, as reported recently. Materials and Methods: As a comprehensive literature search was performed to find articles published in PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases by January 2022. The search used keywords of ‘aged’, ‘male’, ‘sexual behavior’, and ‘testosterone’. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were finally selected. As the main effect variable, results of a questionnaire on sexual function were analyzed and the effects of TRT were compared to those of placebo control. Results: Five RCT studies were included in this meta-analysis. The overall improvement by mean difference of sexual function for testosterone supplementation was 0.082 (95% CI: -0.049 to 0.213). In subgroup analysis, only intramuscular injection of 1,000 mg testosterone significantly improved sexual function of the elderly (0.229, 95% CI: 0.112 to 0.347). There was no significant difference in sexual function according to testosterone dose in meta-ANOVA (p=0.957). The difference was not statistically significant either in the meta-regression test (p=0.310). Egger’s regression coefficient test did not indicate a publication bias (p=0.132). Conclusions Although our overall effect size (that is, sexual function effect of TRT) did not show a significant improvement, the direction of improvement in erection and motivation was clearly shown. The injection formulation resulted in a significant sexual function improvement. Since only a few RCTs were included in the analysis, more well-designed prospective studies are needed to have a definite conclusion.

Background: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the composition of the crystal phases of various calcium silicate-based materials (CSMs): ProRoot white MTAⓇ (mineral trioxide aggregate) (WMTA), Ortho MTAⓇ (OM), Endocem MTAⓇ (EM), Retro MTAⓇ (RM), Endocem ZrⓇ (EN-Z), BiodentineTM (BD), EZ-sealTM (EZ), and OrthoMTA III (OM3). Methods: In a sample holder, 5 g of the powder sample was placed and the top surface of the material was packed flat using a sterilized glass slide. The prepared slides were mounted on an X-ray diffraction (XRD) instrument (D8 Advance; Bruker AXS GmbH, Germany). The X-ray beam 2θ angle range was set at 10∼90° and scanned at 1.2° per minute. The Cu X-ray source set to operate at 40 kV and 40 mA in the continuous mode. The peaks in the diffraction pattern of each sample were analyzed using the software Diffrac (version 2.1). Then, the peaks were compared and matched with those of standard materials in the corresponding Powder Diffraction File (PDF-2, JCPDS International Center for Diffraction Data). A powder samples of the materials were analyzed using XRD and the peaks in diffraction pattern were compared to the Powder Diffraction File data. Results: Eight CSMs showed a similar diffraction pattern because their main component was calcium silicate. Eight CSMs showed similar diffraction peaks because calcium silicate was their main component. Two components were observed to have been added as radiopacifiers: bismuth oxide was detected in WMTA, OM, and EM while zirconium oxide was detected in RM, EN-Z, BD, EZ, and OM3. Unusual patterns were detected for the new material, OM3, which had strong peaks at low angles. Conclusion It was caused by the presence of Brushite, which is believed to have resulted in crystal growth in a particular direction for a specific purpose.