Merkel cell: Friend or felon.

Merkel cells are perceived as tactile receptors within skin and oral mucosa containing abundant intermediate filaments but lacking characteristic condensation of tonofilaments, hence are also referred to as non-keratinocytes. Merkel cell carcinomas (MCCs) are primary aggressive neuroendocrine neoplasms occurring in elderly individuals. Toker in 1972 reported MCC of skin pointing towards sweat glands as the source of origin which was later rectified by Tang with the aid of ultrastructural studies as Merkel cells to be a lineage of such tumours.

Beyond Decay: Exploring the Age-associated Variations in and in Dental Caries.

Background: and play an important role in the etiopathogenesis and progression of dental caries (DC). Their quantification and identification may be helpful for epidemiological and early intervention measures.

Objectives: We conducted the study to evaluate the colony counts of and with the location of DC and correlate their prevalence with the age of the patient.

Evaluation of the Impact of Smoking on Orthodontic Treatment.

Smoking is a prevalent habit known for its detrimental effects on oral health and it affects not only oral health but also various organ systems. The influence of smoking on periodontal health, including gingival inflammation, bone loss and delayed wound healing, poses significant challenges during orthodontic therapy. Orthodontic treatment depends on healthy bone and periodontal remodelling.

Management of complex vertebral artery anatomy in craniocervical surgery: A case report.

Background: The surgery on the craniocervical junction is associated with complex techniques that endanger the vertebral artery (VA), especially if there are some anatomical variations present, thereby increasing the risk of vascular injury, particularly during cervical decompression or instrumentation.

Case Description: A case of a 60-year-old female with progressive myelopathy and craniocervical junction malformation is presented. Key preoperative imaging findings included basilar invagination, C1 assimilation, and os odontoideum, along with VA anomalies such as a tortuous, hypoplastic left VA arising anomalously from the aortic arch and a right VA with a V2 segment forming a high-riding medial loop into the C2 vertebral body.

Anchorage and Stability of Orthodontic Mini Implants in Relation to Length and Types of Implants.

Anchorage control is crucial for achieving optimal results in orthodontic treatment. Scientific literature has documented the exploration of various methods to prevent anchorage loss, including the use of extraoral and intraoral devices. The advent of mini implants and micro implants has introduced new possibilities by allowing placement in previously inaccessible areas.