bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The reliability and validity of the restoration difficulty evaluation system tool for assessing the restoration of endodontically treated teeth: A pilot study
Authors: Mahajan Angad , Nawal Ruchika Roongta , Talwar Sangeeta , Verma Minaal , Yadav Sudha
Published: January 2025

Introduction:

Restoration of endodontically treated teeth (ETT) is crucial for their long-term functionality, yet current practices lack structured approaches, leading to variable outcomes. The restorative difficulty evaluation system (RDES) offers a systematic method to assess restoration complexity tailored to each patient. This pilot study aims to evaluate RDES’s reliability and validity in guiding clinicians’ decisions on ETT restoration.

Methodology:

Ten participants were recruited, and two endodontists independently assessed clinical parameters using RDES. Interrater reliability was assessed to determine agreement between examiners. Test–retest reliability was evaluated over two time points (baseline and 2 weeks). Face and content validity were assessed by a panel of 10 experts.

Results:

Intrarater reliability was robust (Evaluator 1: r = 0.667 and Evaluator 2: r = 0.655). Interrater reliability was substantial (κ =0.783). Face validity affirmed RDES parameters’ relevance with scores exceeding the impact score threshold. Content validity showed high item-rated content validity index (I-CVI) scores for both relevance (I-CVI [R]) and clarity (I-CVI [C]), resulting in high scale-level CVI scores, affirming all RDES items’ appropriateness. The Gunning Fog Index (14.79) suggests tool’s suitability for college junior or undergraduate-level readers.

Conclusion:

The study demonstrates RDES’s reliability and validity in assessing restoration complexity in ETT. Its systematic approach can inform treatment decisions, potentially enhancing patient outcomes.
Innovative management of complicated crown-root fracture with biomimetic materials: A case report with a 2-year follow-up
Authors: Kaur Maninder , Singla Munish , Kaur Harleen , Gupta Saloni , Arora Reetu
Published: January 2025

The concurrent complicated horizontal crown-root fracture and complicated vertical crown fracture are rarely delineated in the literature. This case report suggests a twophase singlevisit treatment to reinstate the maxillary lateral incisor with bioinspired materials. In Stage 1, endodontic therapy was given, followed by fracture fragment stabilization innovatively in Stage 2. At 2 years of follow-up, clinical examinations revealed satisfactory periodontal condition without mobility or discoloration of the tooth. Cone-beam computed tomography revealed a close approximation of the vertical fracture line and healing of the horizontal crown-root fracture with a type II pattern. This case report concludes that a minimally invasive procedural approach with biomimetic materials can be performed instead of extensive therapy like extraction.
Comparative analysis of Biodentine and Mineral Trioxide Aggregate repair High Plasticity in reinforcing roots with perforation: An in vitro study
Authors: Anija R. , Kalita Chandana , Satheesh S. L. , Seal Mukut , Kalita Tribisha , Saikia Anindita
Published: January 2025

Context:

Root perforation increases the fracture risk, and bioceramic materials can be used for repair. Evaluating the fracture resistance (FR) of these cements in teeth with simulated perforations is crucial for assessing their effectiveness.

Aim:

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of Biodentine (Septodont, France) and Mineral Trioxide Aggregate High Plasticity (MTA Repair HP, Angelus, Brazil), on the FR of teeth with simulated root perforations.

Design and Settings:

An in vitro experimental design was conducted to compare and determine the most reliable repair and obturating material for root perforation.

Materials and Methods:

Fifty extracted mandibular premolars were randomly assigned to one control group (n = 10) and four test groups (n = 10) based on the repair and backfilling materials used: Biodentine + gutta percha (GP) (Dentsply Maillefer, Germany) and AH Plus sealer (Dentsply, Germany), Biodentine + Biodentine, MTA HP + GP and sealer, and MTA HP + MTA HP. FR was assessed using a universal testing machine.

Statistical Analysis:

The variance among the five groups was tested using Analysis of Variance and pairwise post hoc Tukey’s test for intergroup comparisons. The level of statistical significance was set at P < 0.05.

Results:

The highest mean FR value was observed in the MTA HP + MTA HP group. ANOVA test revealed statistically significant differences between the groups (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Bioceramic cements with a MOE similar to dentin enhance FR by forming a monoblock for uniform stress distribution. Perforation repair and backfilling with these cement reinforce the tooth.
Translucency and color stability of advanced lithium disilicate ceramic material: An in vitro study
Authors: Alazemi Bader M. , Rayyan Mohammad R.
Published: January 2025

Context:

The dental restoration can closely resemble the tooth structure around it when the color and translucency are the right combination. Color stability and translucency are critical factors influencing the optical blending of restorations with natural dentition, enhancing their overall esthetics.

Aim:

This study aimed to compare the translucency and color stability of advanced lithium disilicate (ALD) ceramic material in comparison to conventional lithium disilicate ceramics.

Materials and Methods:

Eighty specimens, measuring 12 mm × 14 mm, were fabricated from two types of ceramics: lithium disilicate glass-ceramic (LDS) and ALD. Two types were used for each material, High translucency (HT) and Medium translucency (MT). The samples were divided into 4 groups (n = 20) based on the material and the translucency. Each group was subsequently separated into two additional subgroups based on thickness, specifically 0.5 and 1.0 mm (n = 10). The translucency parameter (TP) was determined by employing a spectrophotometer to measure color on both white and black backgrounds. The experiment involved subjecting samples with a thickness of 1 mm to a total of 10,000 thermocycles, followed by immersing them in coffee for 12 days. Color change (ΔE) was calculated using CIELAB color coordinates at the initial state, as well as after the application of TC and immersion.

Results:

A significant difference in TP existed between LDS (18.16 ± 2.149) and ALD (15.115 ± 0.877) for 0.5 mm thickness (P < 0.05). Color change for both materials was perceivable above ∆E 1.2. Only ALD MT showed ∆E 3.03 above the acceptability threshold.

Conclusion:

The translucency of LDS was more than ALD at a thickness of 0.5 mm. In both materials, the color change was above the perceptibility threshold but within the clinical acceptable limits except for ALD MT which had a color change above the clinical acceptability threshold.
A comparative evaluation of the decalcifying effects of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid and N-acetyl cysteine on root canal dentin using energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy
Authors: Shenvi Suresh , Joshi Sonal B. , Seal Mukut
Published: January 2025

Background:

Chelating agents used to remove the inorganic part of the smear layer from prepared canals can alter dentin mineral composition, potentially affecting the adhesion of resin-based root canal cement and sealers.

Aim:

This study aimed to compare the decalcifying effects of 17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), 20% N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), and deionized water (control) on root canal dentin using energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDXS).

Materials and Methods:

Sixty-nine extracted human mandibular premolars were randomly divided into three groups, yielding 138 root halves treated with either 17% EDTA, 20% NAC, or a control solution (n = 46). The mineral content was assessed using EDXS, and statistical analysis was conducted with the Kruskal–Wallis test, using an alpha level of 5%.

Results:

Twenty percent NAC and control groups retained more calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus than 17% EDTA, suggesting better mineral preservation, while 17% EDTA resulted in the lowest mineral content across all elements analyzed.

Conclusion:

Twenty percent NAC exhibited milder decalcifying effects compared to EDTA while preserving mineral content. Twenty percent NAC could be a biocompatible alternative to EDTA for smear layer removal in endodontic treatments.
Successful treatment of epidermal growth factor receptor exon 19 deletion non-small cell lung cancer with almonertinib after osimertinib-induced interstitial lung disease: A case report
Authors: Li Zhichao , Wang Gang , Xue Guoliang , Wang Nan , Hu Yanting , Cao Pikun , Cai Hongchao , Wei Zhigang , Ye Xin
Published: January 2025

Osimertinib, a third-generation epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)–tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI), has revolutionized one of the standard most efficient treatments for EGFR mutation-positive non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Osimertinib, a third-generation EGFR–TKI, is currently one of most efficient treatments in clinical practice. However, it has a potentially fatal side effect: interstitial lung disease (ILD). When severe ILD occurs, a drug substitution is often required, and there is a rising concern about which drug to choose to inhibit the progression of NSCLC and avoid aggravating while alleviating ILD. Herein, we report an NSCLC case with osimertinib-induced ILD successfully rechallenged by almonertinib. In addition, we conducted a literature review on the clinical efficacy and adverse effects of almonertinib, hoping to provide insight into NSCLC treatment.
In vitro prebiotic activity of millets with selected probiotic microorganisms
Authors: Soni Hemant , Bhagwat Prateeksha , Singh Gagandeep , Tandon Smriti , Yadav Sunanda , Parihar Akanksha Singh , Lale Sanjeev Kumar , Prasad Shyam Baboo , Thakur Akanksha , Kumar Vijay , Charde Vaibhav , Jagtap Chandrashekhar Yuvaraj , Arya Jagdish Chandra , Narasimhaji Ch. Venkata , Srikanth Narayanam , Acharya Rabinarayan
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND:

Millets are an inexpensive grain that contains many major and minor nutrients, such as carbohydrates, protein, fats, and dietary fibers. As millets are rich in carbohydrates, and carbohydrates tend to be a great prebiotic source for the proliferation of gut microbes (probiotics), this study was designed to evaluate the prebiotic potential of millets. Millets used in this study include pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.), finger millet (Eleusine coracana L.), sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.), and foxtail millet (Setaria italica L.).

METHODS:

The prebiotic activity was performed by using them as a sole carbon source in De Man–Rogosa–Sharpe agar media with probiotic strains Lactobacillus plantarum [Microbial Type Culture Collection (MTCC) 1407], Lactobacillus paracasei (Microbial Culture Collection 4490), Lactobacillus rhamnosus (MTCC 1408), and Saccharomyces boulardii. Millets were ground into a fine powder with the grinder, and the powder was used as a carbon source in media for cultivating microorganisms under anaerobic conditions maintained in an anaerobic jar at 37°C.

RESULTS:

The results revealed that the growth of all microorganisms was confluent on their respective Petri plates under anaerobic conditions as observed on positive control plates. When these selected millets powder were mixed in the same ratio and used as a carbon source to check prebiotic activity, the results showed similar trends as observed with individual millets.

CONCLUSION:

The study concludes that whole grain millets showed prebiotic activity and thus can be recognized as an essential prebiotic nutritious food. These millets may support the growth of the population of healthy gut microbes, thus playing an important role in promoting digestion. Further, in-vivo and clinical validation is necessary to establish the prebiotic potential of these millets leading to the development of millets based ayurvedic prebiotic formulations.
Medicinal flowers and their bioactive phytochemicals with therapeutic benefits: A comprehensive review
Authors: Dey Ganesh , Giri Simran , Sarkar Bapi Ray , Pal Prosanta
Published: January 2025

Flowers are modified shoots of plants and have an important role directly or indirectly. Morphologically, medicinal flowers may be divided into pollen, nectar, petals, and other parts. From ancient times, flowers have played an important role in our day-to-day life. These are the integral parts of praying to God. These are also used to add fragrance, color, and flavor to the food in different forms, such as salads, soups, desserts, and drinks. On the other hand, properly identifying flowers is necessary. This review summarizes the significance of “flower drugs” based on their health effects. Due to visual aspects, esthetic value, nutritional value, and medicinal value, medicinal flowers create an increasing demand. The phytoconstituents (alkaloids, glycosides, flavonols, flavones, tannins, saponins, and steroids), macronutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, sulfur, and magnesium), and micronutrients (boron, zinc, manganese, iron, copper, molybdenum, and chlorine) of flower are the foremost themes on health benefits. The medicinal flowers are frequently used as either fresh, cooked, or in extract form to treat or prevent various ailments. The flower drugs are widely used for various pharmacological activities such as: anti-oxidant, anti-microbial, anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, anti-anxiety, hepatoprotective, anti-nociceptive, hypolipidemic activity and also used in gynecological disorders,cosmetic formulations and aromatherapy.
Induction training programme of resident doctors: The need of the hour
Authors: Sameer Md , Pillai Jawahar S. K. , Sahoo Biswajeevan
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACT

Background:

An induction training program is a structured process to acclimatize and orient the newly inducted staff or employees to an organization. As per the literature, there is no structured induction training program for resident doctors available in tertiary care teaching hospitals in India. Unlike other institutions, hospitals are complex places with several departments, processes, and patient services. Resident doctors in teaching medical institutions are a valuable human resource as they form the frontline doctors for delivering healthcare services. Therefore, the resident doctor needs to be oriented to the institution as early as possible to ensure quality in patient care services. The study aims to develop an induction training program for newly joined residents in teaching medical institutions and evaluate its effectiveness. The study setting was AIIMS, Bhubaneswar and the duration of the study was 6 months.

Methodology:

The ADDIE (analyze, design, develop, implement, and evaluate) model of human resource management was used as the study tool to develop the training program. An online national survey was conducted in the analyze phase to identify the training needs of residents. A comprehensive training module was developed based on the findings and referring the NABH Standards. The modules were implemented in a pilot mode in the study setting, and feedback was collected to understand the effectiveness of the program.

Results:

A training program for residents with 14 modules was developed and implemented. It consisted of 22 credits. The findings of the online survey and the feedback of the training program were found to be similar in many aspects though study participants were different in the analyze and evaluate phases. The Hospital Infection Control Practices, Hospital Management Information Systems, and Medico-legal Module were rated high by the residents. The study outlined the need for an induction training program for resident doctors in medical institutions. Based on the survey, the module was prepared and implemented. This module can be a model that can be replicated in other medical institutions.

Conclusion:

An induction training program for resident doctors was developed that helped them to get oriented to their workplace and improve their skills. This activity directly affects the quality of healthcare services thereby significantly contributing to patient safety.
Pigmentary demarcation lines: Three cases encapsulating a benign condition
Authors: Chalupczak Natalia , Woods Alexander , Kirchner Allison , Hoyer Sheryl , Haber Roger
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACT

Pigmentary demarcation lines (PDL), or Voigt-Futcher lines, are lines marking an abrupt transition between hyperpigmented skin and normal skin. They are usually seen in African, Hispanic, and Japanese populations, but can be rarely observed in Caucasians. The distribution of these markings is postulated to follow “Voigt’s lines,” which mark the underlying peripheral nerves. We report three cases of patients presenting with PDL and review this phenomenon to raise awareness across specialties of this benign condition.
Two faces of the same coin non alcoholic fatty liver disease; with and without diabetes: Comparative clinico pathological analysis: A cross sectional observational study
Authors: Mushfiq Syed , Yatoo Ghulam Nabi , Mir Bilal Ahmad , Rasool Zubaida
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim:

Non-alcohol fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a metabolic disorder that represents the hepatic manifestation of systemic process, and is a strong risk factor for diabetes Meletus, whereas the presence of DM increases the severity of NAFLD/NASH and its progression. Data on the impact of diabetes on NASH phenotype is sparse from northern India. We studied and compared the clinical profile of NALFD in the presence and absence of DM and the effect of diabetes on NASH.

Methods:

We did a cross-sectional analysis of data from NAFLD patients (n = 90) who were divided into diabetic and non-diabetic cohorts and their respective demographic, biochemical, imaging and histological features were recorded and compared.

Results:

Out of 90 patients, 53.3% were females with a mean age of 44 ± 12 years. The mean BMI and WHR of the study cohort were 28.9 ± 3.4 and 1.01 ± 0.15, respectively. The current study showed that 35.8% were diabetics. The mean age and WHR were 52 ± 11 years vs 40 ± 10 years and 1.1 ± 0.17 vs 0.99 ± 0.09, respectively, in diabetic and non-diabetic NAFLD patients. Non-invasive fibrosis scores, including BARD (2.8 vs 1.73), FIB-4 (3.4 vs 2.2) and NFS (0.97 vs −1.13), were significantly higher in diabetic NAFLD compared to non-diabetic NAFLD (P < 0.03). The histological grade of steatosis and fibrosis as depicted by the mean NAS score (5.7 ± 1.2 vs 4.63 ± 0.8) was higher in diabetic NAFLD vs non-diabetic NAFLD; however, only the fibrosis stage was statistically significant between the groups (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Despite the small no of cases, we should conclude that there is a bidirectional relationship between NAFLD and DM where the progression of one increases the rate of progression of other. Diabetic patients have higher risk of NASH and hence increased risk of liver related mortality and should be screened early for NAFLD/NASH.
The prevalence and risk factors of diabetes and hypertension among police personnel: A population-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Chaturvedi Deepak V. , Gupta Digant , Maheshgauri Darpan M. , Yadav Gauri E. , Debnath Dhrubajyoti J. , Chaturvedi Asmita D.
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACT

Background:

Police personnel represent a special occupational group who because of the nature of their jobs are at an increased risk of lifestyle disorders such as diabetes and hypertension. Although studies have been conducted to assess the health status of police personnel in India, most of them suffer from small sample sizes, selection bias, and poor generalizability.

Objectives:

This large-scale study evaluated the prevalence of diabetes and hypertension along with their risk factors among police personnel in Mumbai, India.

Methods:

A population-based cross-sectional study was conducted in 3474 police personnel. The key risk factors of interest were age, gender, and body mass index (BMI). Binary logistic regression was used to quantify the relationship between the independent variables (age, gender, and BMI) and the dichotomous dependent variables (diabetes and hypertension).

Results:

86.3% were males while 13.7% were females. The mean age was 41.6 years. In total, 48.7% of participants were overweight while 19.9% were obese. Totally, 29.2% of participants were pre-diabetic/diabetic and 55.2% were hypertensive. Using adjusted logistic regression, participants with > = 55 years were 7.9 and 3.7 times more likely to have diabetes and hypertension respectively compared to those with < = 34 years. Similarly, obese individuals were 1.6 and 3.1 times more likely to have diabetes and hypertension respectively compared to those with normal BMI.

Conclusions:

This study demonstrates a high prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors such as diabetes, hypertension, and obesity among Indian police personnel and provides the scientific basis for planning interventional strategies to improve their health.
Smartphone-based health monitoring in India: Data collection and evaluation for pulse rate estimation
Authors: Shetty Achal , Narasimhamurthy Sanjana S. , Nataraj KS , Prabhu Srilakshmi M. , Jagadeesh Neha , Katre Kunal , Kumar Sumit , Kapoor Neelesh , Haladi Sudhir P. , Gulati Sankalp
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Over the past decade, monitoring of body vitals has gained significant popularity, specifically during and post the recent COVID pandemic. Advancements in smartphones and wearables have been pivotal, providing accessible and cost-effective solutions for at-home health monitoring. Their development often requires a large corpus of labeled datasets, but such large and diverse datasets for developing smartphone-based vital estimation systems, particularly adapted to Indian context, are scarce.

Aims and Objectives:

This observational study focuses on development of such a dataset in a diverse Indian context and evaluation of smartphone-based pulse rate estimation based on this dataset.

Methods:

Data collection considered Indian patients with various medical conditions, body mass index profiles, blood pressure levels, ages, and smoking habits, reflecting a broad demographic spectrum. As part of this study, an algorithm was implemented to estimate the photoplethysmogram (PPG) signal from video recordings of fingers placed on the smartphone camera and subsequently to estimate pulse rate using the acquired PPG data. Smartphone-based pulse rate estimates were compared with readings from pulse oximeters to assess accuracy and feasibility.

Results:

The smartphone-based PPG algorithm provides reasonably accurate estimations of pulse rate when compared to traditional pulse oximeters under varied healthcare settings (mean absolute error < 5, intraclass correlation coefficient > 0.90).

Conclusion:

Results indicate that the smartphone-based PPG signal captures sufficient information of the cardiac cycle to reliably estimate the pulse rate. Furthermore, system accuracy is consistent across varied subjects and settings, highlighting the importance of tailored data collection for development and evaluation of vital estimation algorithms.
A study to correlate the association of Gender, Age, Physiology (GAP) index and radiological patterns in interstitial lung disease
Authors: Bhushan Aditya Shashi , Shashibhushan B L , Ashwin K
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACT

Background:

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) encompasses a heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by inflammation and fibrosis of lung tissue, leading to impaired gas exchange and respiratory failure. The GAP index, based on gender, age, and pulmonary function, predicts mortality and disease severity in patients with ILD. High-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) is a critical diagnostic tool that provides detailed information on lung morphology and disease extent. This study aims to investigate the relationship between HRCT patterns and the GAP index in patients with ILD, enhancing disease staging and prognostication.

Objectives:

1. To identify various radiological patterns in ILD patients using HRCT of the thorax. 2) To correlate these radiological patterns with the GAP index and verify the relationship mentioned above.

Materials and Methods:

This retrospective observational study analyzed data from 154 patients with ILD treated at Victoria Hospital, Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute, from January 2021 to September 2023. The inclusion criteria included patients aged ≥ 18 years diagnosed with ILD based on the ATS/ERS criteria. Thoracic HRCT was performed using a Philips Ingenuity 128-slice CT scanner, and pulmonary function tests (PFTs) were conducted using a Power cube Diffusion Plus spirometer. The GAP score was calculated, and the HRCT patterns were compared with the GAP stages. Statistical analyses were performed using IBM SPSS Statistics software.

Results:

The study population had a mean age of 55.5 years, consisting of 68 males and 86 females. Shortness of breath (97.4%) and cough (87.7%) were the most common symptoms. Hypertension (31.2%) and diabetes mellitus (28.6%) were the most common comorbidities observed. The prevalence of definitive UIP sharply increased in stage 3 (58.8%) compared to stage 1 (9.5%) and stage 2 (41.5%), with a highly significant P value (<0.0001). In contrast, NSIP was more common in Stage 1 (39.3%) and decreases in later stages, with a significant P value (0.011). Over half of the patients were in GAP Stage 1 (54.5%), with significant correlations found between advancing GAP stages and an increased prevalence of honeycombing (P = 0.0005) and traction bronchiectasis (P = 0.010). The ground-glass opacity decreased with increasing GAP stage (P = 0.035).

Conclusion:

This study revealed a significant correlation between particular HRCT patterns and GAP index stages in patients with ILD, highlighting the importance of honeycombing and traction bronchiectasis as indicators of advanced disease. This approach is advantageous in both resource-limited settings, where HRCT availability is limited, and in advanced medical centers, as it can help minimize the need for frequent CT scans.
A study of lipid profile peculiarities and atherogenic index of plasma in patients younger than fifty years of age with newly diagnosed rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Bhatt Varsha R. , Krishna Kavita K. , Asrani Vishal , Chauhan Rajat
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACT

Context:

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is an important cause of mortality in rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Aims:

Evaluation of lipid profile and atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) in newly diagnosed DMARD naïve patients of RA younger than 50 years of age, and its comparison with age- and sex-matched healthy controls.

Settings and Design:

Cross-sectional comparative study.

Methods and Material:

48 patients aged 18 to 50 years fulfilling the ACR/EULAR criteria for RA, not yet on DMARD or steroids and 51 healthy controls were included. Disease activity was assessed, and lipid profile was estimated: total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), triglycerides (TG) and very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL). Atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) was calculated using a standard formula.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Independent sample t-tests were used to determine the statistical significance of mean values between the case and control groups. Pearson’s correlation test was used to correlate various components of the lipid profile and the atherogenic index with DAS28-ESR.

Results:

Significantly reduced levels of HDL (39.31 ± 6.52 mg/dl) were found in patients with RA as compared to the healthy controls. Serum TG was significantly higher in the cases (138.35 ± 39.23 mg/dl). TC level was significantly elevated in the cases. Mean atherogenic index in cases was significantly higher (0.17 + 0.14) in some cases. Only a weak correlation was found between lipid profile components and DAS28-ESR.

Conclusions:

Serum HDL level was significantly lower, and TC, TG levels and AIP were significantly higher in younger patients of early DMARD naïve RA pointing to a higher CV risk.
Impact of over 6 months of digital hearing aid usage on auditory working memory in acquired severe to profound hearing loss
Authors: Yadav Arun K. , Ahsan Amra , Kumar Vijay , Banik Arun
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Hearing amplification devices provide ample auditory input that can help to decrease the cognitive strain caused by hearing loss. Depending on the kind and severity of hearing loss, using hearing aids has variable effects on auditory working memory. This study looked into the auditory working memory capacity after using hearing aids for more than 6 months.

Method:

Sixty individuals of a mean age of 53.4 ± 6.07 years with severe to profound hearing loss in the age range of 40–60 years participated. Out of them, 30 individuals with a mean age of 53.5 ± 6.7 were using digital hearing aids and another 30 individuals with a mean age of 53.3 ± 5.4 years were not using a hearing aid. Forward and backward digit span task (DST) and Mini-Mental Status Examination (MMSE) were investigated to estimate the auditory working memory capacity.

Results:

Mean MMSE scores of those individuals with severe to profound hearing loss (53.3 ± 5.43) using (HAU) a hearing aid (25.7 ± 2.97) and individuals not using (NHAU) a hearing aid (22.1 ± 5.11) were compared across each other. The result revealed that the mean MMSE score of HAU was significantly higher than the mean score of NHAU. The mean DST (forward, backward, and total) score of HAU (6.40 ± 1.47) was cosiderably higher than the mean score of NHAU (5.33 ± 1.12).

Conclusion:

Results showed that mean MMSE and DST scores were higher in the HAU category, but when compared across the gender, no statistical differences were observed. The change in auditory working memory and other cognitive abilities were attributed to the usage duration of the hearing aids.
Acanthosis nigricans and its association with cardio-metabolic risk factors in children with overweight/obesity: A school-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Das Rashmi R. , Mangaraj Manaswini , Nayak Saurav , Satapathy Amit K. , Mahapatro Samarendra
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACT

Background:

Acanthosis nigricans (AN) is a common finding often associated with hyperinsulinemia and childhood obesity. There has been a lack of studies evaluating the association of AN with underlying cardio-metabolic risk factors in children and adolescents. Our objective was to study the association between AN and cardio-metabolic risk factors in children with overweight/obesity.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study included school-going children (6–16 years of age) with overweight/obesity. Physical examination, anthropometry, and blood pressure (BP) data were collected. Fasting blood samples were collected to measure insulin, glucose, homeostasis model assessment index (HOMAIR), and lipid profile.

Results:

Of 1930 children screened, 545 had overweight/obesity, and were included. Boys to girls ratio was 1.27. AN was present in 46.4% of children. Children with AN had higher body mass index [BMI] (P < 0.01), waist circumference [WC] (P < 0.01), systolic (P = 0.03), and diastolic BP (P = 0.02), hyperglycemia (P = 0.02), hyperinsulinemia (P < 0.01), and a higher HOMA-IR (P < 0.01) compared to those without AN. HDL level was lower in children with AN.

Conclusions:

Children with overweight/obesity who have AN have significant elevations of BP, insulin level, and HOMA-IR. AN is a clinical marker that seems to be associated with cardio-metabolic risk factors in children with overweight/obesity in the given study population.
Burden and pattern of diseases among tribes of South-West Rajasthan
Authors: Dwivedi Rakhi , Goel Prachi , Jain Riddhi , Sharma Aditya , Dwivedi Pradeep , Singh Pratibha , Singh Kuldeep
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Policymakers can better grasp regional health challenges by investigating the disease profile in a specific area. It is challenging to understand the burden and pattern of diseases in the aspirational district of Sirohi, Rajasthan, which is also a partially tribal district, due to the lack of studies on disease profiling among the tribals in the state.

Aim:

To determine the prevalent diseases among the people of district Sirohi through secondary data analysis of data collected from government healthcare facilities.

Materials and Methods:

We conducted a retrospective analysis of health data from the records of the government health system in the district Sirohi, Rajasthan, for the last three years, from 2020 to 2022. Our analysis specifically examined illnesses that affected pregnant women, children, and patients attending outpatient and inpatient departments.

Results:

Over three consecutive years, tribal blocks had a higher load of diseases compared to the non-tribal blocks of the Sirohi district. Diarrhoea contributed 67.9% of childhood illnesses, followed by pneumonia (14.4%). The occurrence of maternal anaemia among pregnant women was 81%, with a noticeable upward trajectory. The most common reasons for admission to the in-patient department were respiratory illnesses (n = 6,145), diarrhea with dehydration (n = 4,339), snake bites (n = 687), and typhoid (n = 539). Pindwara had the highest number of respiratory illness (n = 2897, 47.1%) compared to all other blocks.

Conclusion:

This study emphasizes the necessity of addressing the health challenges encountered by tribes in district Sirohi. To tackle these issues, it is imperative to execute a targeted and precise strategy. There is a lack of data within tribal communities, which necessitates additional research to formulate a targeted strategy for tribal health.
Exploring barriers and facilitators of vaginal birth after caesarean section (VBAC), awareness, and preferences among females in Western Saudi Arabia
Authors: Aloufi Daniyah , Saggaf Omar , Alkhalifah Zainab Ali , Alalawi Hassan , Alhazmi Nadia
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACT

Background:

Women with a history of previous Cesarean Sections (CS) are faced with two choices during their pregnancy: Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC) or Elective Repeat Cesarean Delivery (ERCD). VBAC refers to vaginal delivery in women who have previously undergone a CS.

Objectives:

Despite limited studies on VBAC in Saudi Arabia, this research aims to assess the knowledge and awareness of Saudi women regarding VBAC.

Methodology:

This cross-sectional study was conducted among adult females in Western Saudi Arabia utilizing a convenient snowball sampling technique. The total number of participants was 901 females. The participants completed a self-administered questionnaire, which covered general information, knowledge about VBAC, and factors influencing their decision. Statistical analysis employed Chi-squared, Independent T-Test, and ANOVA.

Results:

Our findings revealed that 67.5% of participants had inadequate knowledge about VBAC. Only 45.6% of participants were familiar with the term VBAC. The primary reason for choosing CS over VBAC was medical necessity, as reported by 36.3% of participants. The most common reasons for rejecting VBAC were fear for their child’s safety and the fact that a CS was recommended, both reported by 35.1%. The lowest reported reason was external interference from family or spouses, at 10.5%.

Conclusion:

Although the majority of our sample consisted of highly educated women, most exhibited poor knowledge regarding VBAC. Therefore, raising awareness about VBAC, especially through healthcare professionals and their clinics, is essential.
Managing thyroid hormone replacement after total thyroidectomy: Guidance for family medicine
Authors: Ahmad Ahmar , Mughal Zahir , Jangan Akash , Diakos Emmanuel , Minhas Satvir , Mughal Faraz
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACT

Thyroid hormones are among the most prescribed medications to patients worldwide and are commonly used to treat hypothyroidism. Thyroxine is also indicated after total thyroidectomy for Graves’ disease or a multinodular goitre. In this commentary, we discuss and provide guidance for family medicine and primary care clinicians on how to navigate thyroid hormone replacement in patients after total thyroidectomy for cancer.
Pioneering a New Frontier: Artificial Intelligence (AI)-Driven Lip Print Pattern Analysis—A Systematic Review
Authors: Maheswari T. N. Uma , Bohra Ankita , Sharuniveda S
Published: January 2025

Background:

Artificial intelligence (AI) technology is a trailblazer in obtaining critical information in oral observational studies involving forensic medicine. It holds immense potential in forensic odontology. Machine learning’s involvement in our daily lives has doubled. The constructive upgraded mechanism of machine learning involved in exploring lip print patterns is a crucial perspective for future diagnostic studies.

Objectives:

To illuminate the significance and application of AI technology in forensic odontology, specifically lip print analysis. The cardinal objective is to identify the most effective algorithm for lip print analysis using AI.

Methodology:

The data for this study were collected by conducting a thorough search of articles published in reputable search engines between January 2010 and January 2024. The QUADAS-2 tool forms an impression of the risk of bias in the selected studies. Search engines such as PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane were extensively searched for data collection.

Results:

All studies shortlisted for this review present promising results. Results showed that of all algorithms, VGG16 and VGG19 are better than other algorithms in terms of accuracy, precision, and recall.

Conclusion:

Our focus in this study is to determine whether AI is efficient in providing results for lip print pattern analysis and standardize an AI network algorithm that works best for it.
Rarity in Common Palatal Pathology: A Diagnostic Dilemma of Enigmatic Case on Palatal Swelling
Authors: Srivastava Shilpi , Nayak Anjali , Nayak Meghanand T. , Gupta Durga Shanker
Published: January 2025

Palatal lesions pose a great challenge for clinicians to diagnose. It is one of the myriad regions of the oral cavity with an array of tissues that may give rise to a plethora of different pathologies. In-depth knowledge of anatomy with proper investigation remains the key to success in the diagnosis and treatment of palatal lesions along with a high index of clinical suspicion. In this paper, we present a rare case report of traumatic neuroma at an unusual site of the palate.
Prevalence and Morphological Variations of Prelacrimal Recess in Maxillary Sinus - A Retrospective CBCT Study
Authors: Palanisamy Anitha , Karthikeyan Bakyalakshmi , Najmutheen Benazir
Published: January 2025

Background:

The pathology of the maxillary sinus (MS) can be treated using the prelacrimal recess approach, an intranasal method for accessing the MS. This approach exhibits significant individual variations in its prevalence and varying widths.

Aim:

To determine the occurrence of the prelacrimal recess (PLR) in the MS and explore its morphological variations.

Methods:

A retrospective analysis was performed on 225 cone beam computed tomography scans obtained from the department’s archives. The patients ranged in age from 18 to 78. Statistical analysis were conducted to evaluate the frequency of PLR occurrence in the MS. Data from both sides were compared between males and females.

Results:

The analysis of the data revealed that PLR was present in 84.9% of patients with MS. Each patient exhibited asymmetry between the left and right sides. Although PLR was less likely to occur in women, the difference was not statistically significant.

Conclusion:

The anatomical variations of the PLR in individuals should be considered prior to procedures to prevent complications.
Antimicrobial and Cytotoxic Activity of Citrus macroptera and Cucumis sativus Herbal Formulation: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Amani Turaga , Surenthar Mouttoukichenin
Published: January 2025

Background:

Natural cures are becoming more and more popular since they might lessen the possibility of negative side effects and provide a substitute for pharmaceutical drugs. This study used in vitro experiments to evaluate the cytotoxic and antibacterial properties of a combination of C. sativus, C. macroptera, and glycerol extract.

Materials and Method:

Fruits of C. macroptera (citrus) and C. sativus (cucumber) were washed and dried. Following the preparation of their extracts, a 10 ml extract solution was created by combining them with 8 ml of glycerol. The mixture was filtered, stored at 4°C, and tested using the Agar well diffusion method against the bacterial suspension and the brine shrimp lethality assay against the nauplii.

Results:

The extract showed similar antibacterial and cytotoxic effects to standard values at 100 μg/ml. Higher concentrations increased the zone of inhibition. The brine shrimp lethality test indicated good cytotoxicity.

Conclusion:

The formulation of glycerol extract, cucumber, and citrus could be a useful substitute for the synthetic antibacterial medications that are now on the market because of their good cytotoxic efficacy and minimal side effects. When it comes to developing new drugs to treat oral cavity lesions, these extracts may offer a viable approach.
Evaluation of ChatGPT as a New Assessment Tool in Dental Education
Authors: Shete Anagha , Shete Mrinal , Chavan Mahesh , Channe Pallavi , Sapkal Rashmi , Buva Kirti
Published: January 2025

Background:

Chat-generative pretrained transformer (ChatGPT) has the potential to offer personalized, effective learning experiences for students, creating realistic virtual simulations for hands-on learning.

Objectives:

Assessment of efficiency of ChatGPT against subject experts for assessment in BDS curriculum.

Methods:

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among students of a dental college, in accordance with the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology guidelines. A self-administered, validated questionnaire was used for Short Answer Questioning (SAQ) and critical questioning. Group comparison was done through an independent sample t-test and statistical significance through the Pearson Chi-square test. A P value of <0.05 was considered significant.

Results:

The mean score obtained by Group 1 in SAQs was 4.61 ± 0.28, and for Group 2, it was 4.37 ± 0.26. A higher mean score was seen in Group 1 as compared to Group 2, but this difference was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). At the same time, group comparison for critical reasoning revealed that the mean score obtained by Group 1 in critical reasoning was 4.68 ± 0.24, and for Group 2, it was 2.09 ± 1.10. The difference in mean scores between the two groups was statistically significant.

Conclusion:

Instead of treating artificial intelligence as a threat, dental educators need to adapt teaching and assessments in dental education for the benefit of learners while mitigating its dishonest use.
Reliability of Orthopantomogram in Predicting Bone Mineral Density as Compared to Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry in Post-menopausal Indian Females: A Radiological Original Study
Authors: Kale Isha P. , Mhapuskar Amit A. , Hiremutt Darshan R. Prasad , Rao Prashant R. , Karmarkar Pradnya H. , Jahanvi Vandana
Published: January 2025

Background:

Osteoporosis is commonly seen affecting the bones in post-menopausal females, especially in India. Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) is the gold standard for identifying osteoporosis in female patients. Digital panoramic radiography (OPG) is a common imaging modality used frequently in routine dental practice. Mandibular cortical index (MCI) on OPG can be used to diagnose osteoporosis. Therefore, this study evaluated the efficacy of MCI on OPG to help detect osteoporosis in postmenopausal Indian females.

Aim:

To evaluate the accuracy of OPG versus DEXA in predicting bone mineral density (BMD).

Materials and Methods:

The research involved forty-two women with a postmenopausal history for a minimum of a year. The BMD was measured using DEXA. OPG was taken, and analysis of the mandible on OPG was done by two observers using the MCI given by Klemetti et al.

Results:

OPG had an overall sensitivity and specificity of 71% in the normal group, sensitivity of 50%, specificity of 68% in the osteopenia group, and sensitivity of 36%, specificity of 89% in the osteoporotic group in predicting the BMD using MCI. A positive correlation was seen in the efficacy of OPG in predicting BMD in the normal (P = 0.031*) and osteoporotic groups (P = 0.000*).

Conclusion:

MCI on OPG helped diagnose normal and osteoporotic patients efficiently, but osteopenia was misdiagnosed as normal or osteoporotic. Hence, MCI alone should not be used to predict BMD.
A Comparative Study between Self-Controlled Energetic Neuro: Adaptive Regulator (SCENAR) and Commercially Available Equipment in the Management of Orofacial Pain
Authors: Mahesh KP , Vijayan M Aparna
Published: January 2025

Background:

SCENAR[™] is a noninvasive neuroadaptive device which works on biofeedback mechanism. A case–control study was conducted on 24 patients of either sex with age group between 20 and 35 years of which 12 patients were diagnosed with trigeminal neuralgia and 12 with TMJ pain.

Aims:

To compare the effectiveness of SCENAR[™] and commercially available similar equipment in management of trigeminal neuralgia and TMJ pain.

Objective:

To assess the efficacy of SCENAR[™] in management of trigeminal neuralgia and TMJ pain.

Methods:

Diagnostic criteria for trigeminal neuralgia and TMJ pain were taken into consideration. The patients were divided into test and control groups. SCENAR[™] was used in the test group, and commercially available similar equipment was used in the control group. Pre- and post-treatment pain were recorded using the visual analogue scale. Statistical analysis was done using Chi-square tests (Pearson Chi-square test and Fisher’s exact test).

Results:

The patient group treated with SCENAR[™] showed significant improvement in pain when compared to the control group. The patient group with trigeminal neuralgia showed an effective pain reduction of 79.12% and the patient group with TMJ pain showed 67.65% of pain reduction.

Conclusion:

The results obtained from our present study showed that we can incorporate SCENAR[™] as a treatment modality in the management of orofacial pain as it has fewer side effects and more patient compliance.
Morphometric Analysis of Extensor Hallucis Longus Muscle - A Cadaveric Study
Authors: Bhele Ashwini Vijay , Nirmale Vivek Kisanrao , Vedpathak Shashank Bhaskarrao , Belsare Swati Milind
Published: January 2025

Background:

Extensor hallucis longus (EHL) is the muscle of the anterior compartment of the leg. It has origin from the medial surface of the fibula; insertion is on the base of the distal phalanx of the big toe. Action of the muscle is an extension of the phalanges of the big toe and dorsiflexion of the foot. Tendon grafting is a very common procedure done in branches such as plastic surgery, maxillofacial surgery, and lacerated wounds of tendons where extra tendons will preserve the function of muscle. EHL is one of the preferred tendons for this purpose. The purpose of this study was to observe variations in the morphology of EHL.

Methodology:

The study was performed on a total 85 numbers of lower limbs available in the department of anatomy. The sample contains 46 female and 34 male cadavers. Attachments of the EHL were studied.

Results:

Three different types of insertion of EHL were observed: Type 1 - The most common type, insertion on the extensor hood on the dorsum of the distal phalanx, Type 2 - Two distal tendons while insertion, and Type 3 - Trilaminar insertion.

Conclusion:

The EHL is vital for tendon grafting in reconstruction surgeries. Its close anatomical relationship with the tibialis anterior and extensor digitorum longus highlights the need for precise morphological knowledge. Accessory tendons can be utilized without significant clinical deficits. Preoperative radiological assessment is crucial to confirm donor muscle morphology.