Determining the Accuracy of the Mandibular Canal Region in 3D Biomodels Fabricated from CBCT Scanned Data: A Cadaveric Study

Objective: To validate the accuracy of the mandibular canal region in 3D biomodel produced by using data obtained from Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) of cadaveric mandibles. Methods: Six hemi-mandible samples were scanned using the i-CAT CBCT system. The scanned data was transferred to the OsiriX software for measurement protocol and subsequently into Mimics software to fabricate customized cutting jigs and 3D biomodels based on rapid prototyping technology. The hemi-mandibles were segmented into 5 dentoalveolar blocks using the customized jigs. Digital calliper was used to measure six distances surrounding the mandibular canal on each section. The same distances were measured on the corresponding cross-sectional OsiriX images and the 3D biomodels of each dentoalveolar block. Results: Statistically no significant difference was found when measurements from OsiriX images and 3D biomodels were compared to the “gold standard” -direct digital calliper measurement of the cadaveric dentoalveolar blocks. Moreover, the mean value difference of the various measurements between the different study components was also minimal. Conclusion: Various distances surrounding the mandibular canal from 3D biomodels produced from the CBCT scanned data was similar to that of direct digital calliper measurements of the cadaveric specimens. © 2019 Bentham Science Publishers

An analysis on nature of limited liability partnerships in Malaysia

Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) is an additional form of business entity available for an entrepreneur who decides to carry on a business in Malaysia. The Companies Commission of Malaysia introduces this business entity under the Limited Liability Partnership Act (LLPA) in 2012. This paper looks into the history of the legislation of LLPA in Malaysia while using the doctrinal approach in analyzing the nature of LLP. The conceptual understanding of LLP and a valid definition of LLP is presented by referring to provisions of LLPA. Evaluation of the best features of LLP is provided, and the important provisions of LLPA are included and discussed in detail. This paper also reviews the relevant authorities and their responsibilities in monitoring LLP in Malaysia. By doing so, a clear exposure in the application of LLP can be provided. Finally, a recommendation for future research and a conclusion are provided at the end of the paper

Common oncogenic mutations are infrequent in oral squamous cell carcinoma of Asian origin.

ObjectivesThe frequency of common oncogenic mutations and TP53 was determined in Asian oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC).Materials and methodsThe OncoCarta(™) panel v1.0 assay was used to characterize oncogenic mutations. In addition, exons 4-11 of the TP53 gene were sequenced. Statistical analyses were conducted to identify associations between mutations and selected clinico-pathological characteristics and risk habits.ResultsOncogenic mutations were detected in PIK3CA (5.7%) and HRAS (2.4%). Mutations in TP53 were observed in 27.7% (31/112) of the OSCC specimens. Oncogenic mutations were found more frequently in non-smokers (p = 0.049) and TP53 truncating mutations were more common in patients with no risk habits (p = 0.019). Patients with mutations had worse overall survival compared to those with absence of mutations; and patients who harbored DNA binding domain (DBD) and L2/L3/LSH mutations showed a worse survival probability compared to those patients with wild type TP53. The majority of the oncogenic and TP53 mutations were G:C > A:T and A:T > G:C base transitions, regardless of the different risk habits.ConclusionHotspot oncogenic mutations which are frequently present in common solid tumors are exceedingly rare in OSCC. Despite differences in risk habit exposure, the mutation frequency of PIK3CA and HRAS in Asian OSCC were similar to that reported in OSCC among Caucasians, whereas TP53 mutations rates were significantly lower. The lack of actionable hotspot mutations argue strongly for the need to comprehensively characterize gene mutations associated with OSCC for the development of new diagnostic and therapeutic tools

The presence of mutations in association with overall patient survival.

<p>Log Rank (Mantel-Cox) test showing that patients who harbor (a) overall <i>TP53</i> and oncogenic mutations, (b) overall <i>TP53</i> mutations, (c) L2/L3/LSH <i>TP53</i> mutations and (d) DBD <i>TP53</i> mutations have a worse overall survival compared to wild type patients.</p