bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
2019 Sidney Licht Lecture
Authors: Laffont Isabelle
Published: June 2021

Neuro-orthopedics refers to limb and spine deformities related to various neurological diseases, mostly in a context of spastic disorders. Physical and rehabilitation medicine (PRM) specialists are familiar with these deformities that often lead to functional consequences. It is crucial in our specialty to focus on their prevention and management. A better understanding of the musculoskeletal and neurological physiopathology underlying these phenomena has enabled physicians to improve their prevention and treatment approaches. The clinical assessment of spastic and neuro-orthopedic deformities, based on a rigorous anatomical and physiological knowledge, is deeply rooted in our PRM clinical examination. The evaluation of their functional consequences relies on a patient-centered approach including detailed analysis of gait and upper limb function. There is an increased relevance of motor nerve blocks, dynamic electromyography, and motion analysis in these indications. The treatment of spasticity and its sequelae is emblematic of PRM care due to an integrative multimodal approach including rehabilitation, pharmacological treatments, local management like botulinum toxin injections, and microinvasive or conventional surgery in a multidisciplinary perspective. Finally, spasticity and neuro-orthopedics represent an incredible field of research for the future of PRM, covering basic science, nonpharmacological and pharmacological studies, surgical procedure improvements, and technological developments (neuromodulation, functional electrical stimulation, and robotics).
Outcomes After Acute Inpatient Rehabilitation Following Epilepsy Surgery
Authors: Sherwood David , Tran Alan , Gill Benjamin , Westerhaus Benjamin , Arickx Alexandra , Landazuri Patrick , Eickmeyer Sarah
Published: June 2021

Objective:

To describe functional outcomes following discharge from an acute inpatient rehabilitation facility (IRF) in patients following epilepsy surgery, comparing laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT) versus surgical resection for epilepsy.

Design:

Retrospective case series.

Setting:

Academic tertiary hospital.

Participants:

Eight patients who received LITT (n = 3) or surgical resection (n = 5) for epilepsy.

Interventions:

Acute inpatient rehabilitation.

Main Outcome Measures:

Functional independence measure (FIM), seizure incidence, discharge destination.

Level of Evidence:

IV.

Results:

The epilepsy cohort demonstrated a FIM change of 38.88 (vs. national average 29.55), average length of stay (LOS) of 15.13 days (vs. 13.38 days), and LOS efficiency was 3.4 (vs. 2.68). No patients in the epilepsy cohort were discharged to acute care hospital compared to a national average of 9.82%. Eighty-seven percent in the epilepsy cohort discharged to home (vs. 77%) and 12.5% to skilled nursing facility (vs. 11.90%). Between the subset who received LITT and those who received surgical resection, there was no statistically significant change in mean total FIM change (43.7 vs. 36), FIM efficiency (5.3 vs. 2.2), or FIM change in subset measures of memory (0.5 vs. 0.25) or problem solving (0 vs. 0.8). There was no statistical significance between groups in adverse events, including seizure.

Conclusions:

Outcome measures in this population appear to be consistent with national outcome measures for other IRF diagnoses. This suggests that acute inpatient rehabilitation should be considered after patients undergo surgical intervention for epilepsy. However, a larger sample size and controlled studies are necessary before generalizations can be made. In addition, no statistically significant functional difference was seen between patients who underwent LITT or surgical resection.
Assessment of Levels of C-Reactive Proteins and Interleukin 6 in Patients with Peri-Implantitis: A Case–Control Study
Authors: Khichy Aditya , Khichy Ruhani , Singh Ravpreet , Bali Yashika , Kaur Supreet , Gill Tarunpreet Kaur
Published: June 2021

Aim:

The present study was undertaken for assessing the C-reactive proteins (CRP) levels and IL-6 levels in patients with peri-implantitis.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 20 patients with confirmed clinical and radiographic diagnosis of peri-implantitis were included in the present study. Another set of 20 subjects who reported for routine health check-up were included as healthy controls. All the subjects were recalled in the morning and fasting (minimum of 12 h) venous blood samples were obtained. Plain vials were used for collecting the venous blood which was sent to the laboratory for biochemical analysis. In the laboratory, levels of CRP were assessed by means of latex enhanced nephelometric method, and interleukin 6 (IL-6) was assessed by means of Elisa kit.

Results:

Mean levels of CRPs in patients of the peri-implantitis group and the control group was found to be 0.795 mg/dL and 0.294 mg/dL respectively. Mean IL-6 levels among the patients of the peri-implantitis group and the control group was found to be 12.178 pg/ml and 6.458 pg/ml respectively. While analyzing statistically, significant results were obtained.

Conclusion:

Enhanced periodontal inflammation in peri-implantitis patients is accompanied by a considerable increase in the concentration of CRPs and IL-6.
Skeletal and Soft-Tissue Stability Following Advancement Genioplasty: A Comparative Analysis between Wire and Miniplate Osteosynthesis
Authors: Brar Ramandeep Singh , Gupta Ritesh , Gupta Shuchi , Chaudhary Kuldeep , Singh Preeti , Kaur Mandeep
Published: June 2021

Background:

Genioplasty has nowadays become a routine procedure in the correction of dentofacial deformities. The present study aimed to evaluate and compare the osseous and soft-tissue stability after advancement genioplasties, stabilized using wire and plate osteosynthesis.

Methodology:

The study was conducted on ten patients who underwent advanced genioplasty. The patients were divided equally into two groups. In the Group I patients, plates and in Group II, wires were used for stabilization. Lateral cephalograms preoperative and 6 months postoperative were analyzed using Park et al. method of cephalometric analysis.

Results:

All the ten patients experienced a reliable improvement in esthetics. Although statistically not significant, Group II wire patients have slightly more relapse in the horizontal direction than Group I. The mean ratio of sagittal changes of osseous soft tissue for Group I was 1:0.88 and for Group II wires was 1:0.80.

Conclusion:

The choice of method of fixation following genioplasty would entirely be based on the merits of the individual cases. The marginal edge of advantage seen in miniplate osteosynthesis when compared to wire osteosynthesis is seen in cases that require larger chin advancements.
Clinico-Cytological Study of Fungal Elements in the Buccal Smears of Prediabetic, Diabetic, and Nondiabetic Individuals in Association with Burning Sensation
Authors: Divyadharshini C. , Sathya R. , Rao Gururaj Narayana , Rachel J. Beryl , Harishini B. S. , Daniel T. Divyna
Published: June 2021

Introduction:

Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder that may have profound effects on oral mucosa being prone to infections, particularly candidiasis. In healthy individuals, the candida is a commensal, but in diabetic patients, it forms severe colonization, even in the absence of any clinically evident lesion and may cause a burning sensation of the mouth. This study aims to identify the presence or absence of fungal elements in buccal smears of nondiabetic, prediabetic, and diabetic individuals and to correlate the presence or absence of burning sensation in the oral cavity.

Materials and Methods:

A total of ninety individuals were selected for the study and divided into Group 1 – thirty cases of diabetics, Group 2 – thirty cases of prediabetic patients, and Group 3 – thirty cases of nondiabetic individuals. Detailed case history and thorough intra and extraoral examination were recorded. The buccal smears were cultured in Sabouraud dextrose agar, subcultured in HiCrome™ agar, observed for the colonies of fungal elements, and were analyzed for species differentiation.

Results:

There was a positive correlation between the presence of fungal elements and burning sensation in diabetic individuals, whereas it was not the case in the nondiabetic and prediabetic individuals.

Conclusion:

Candida colonization is one among a factor in diabetic individuals related with burning sensation of the mouth.
Antimicrobial Efficacy of Irreversible Hydrocolloid Impression Impregnated with Silver Nanoparticles Compared to Surface Disinfected Impressions - An In vivo Study
Authors: Rajendran Vaishnavi , Suma Karthigeyan , Ali Seyed Asharaf , Karthigeyan R. , Kalarani G.
Published: June 2021

Background:

Routine disinfection procedures have shown to cause incomplete disinfection and detrimental effects on dimensional properties of the impression. Hence, self-disinfecting impression materials impregnated with antimicrobial agents were developed.

Purpose:

The purpose is to evaluate the antimicrobial efficacy of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) impregnated in irreversible hydrocolloid (IH) impression material in in vivo conditions.

Materials and Methods:

This study comprised of four groups-IH impressions disinfected by immersion in 2% glutaraldehyde, IH impregnated with AgNPs of sizes 80–100 nm and 20–30 nm, nondisinfected impressions as control. Five impressions were made for each group and a total of 20 impression samples were made. The antimicrobial action of each sample was assessed by counting the number of colony forming units and by disc diffusion method.

Results:

The results were obtained and the data were statistically analyzed by Kruskal–Wallis test and tabulated. The results revealed that AgNPs of size 80–100 nm when impregnated in irreversible impression material showed effective antimicrobial action.

Conclusion:

The anti-microbial action of 80–100 nm AgNP impregnated IH impressions is comparable to that of impressions disinfected by immersion in 2% glutaraldehyde for 10 min.
Comparative Evaluation of Changes in Microflora in Delayed and Immediate Implant Placement: An In vivo Study
Authors: Choudhary Shivendra , Verma Neeraj , Anand Santosh , Sinha Abhishek , Shankar Daya
Published: June 2021

Aim:

This study is aimed to compare and evaluate the changes in the microflora in immediate and delayed placed implants.

Materials and Methods:

In this study, the implant site sample was taken and assessed during different phases of treatment for delayed and immediate implants. They were looked for Streptococcus, Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Prevotella intermedia, Porphyromonas gingivalis, and Fusobacterium nucleatum.

Results:

The results showed that Streptococci were found in a higher number in all the phases of the treatment. The presence of pathogenic organisms such as P. gingivalis and Fusobacterium, in considerable amounts, was seen in both the groups.

Conclusion:

Thus, we conclude that implant mode of placement, delayed or immediate placement does not alter the flora of the oral cavity. Organisms present remains the same in all the phase of the treatment. To prevent the disease, one must continuously monitor the implant, with the increasing age changes, the microflora is continually changing in the oral cavity. The periodontal health should be assessed before the placement of the implant, followed by follow-ups after a set period for a better prognosis.
In vivo Comparison of Crestal Bone Heights Following Implant Placement with “Flapless” and “Flap” Techniques in the Sites of Early Loaded Implants
Authors: Pahuja Suhani Kukreja , Negi Pooja , Singh Anjali , Singh Gangesh Bahadur , Rayast Deepa , Minz Manisha
Published: June 2021

Purpose:

The purpose was to evaluate the difference in crestal bone loss (CBL) around implants with flap and flapless methods followed by early loading.

Materials and Methods:

Twenty implants were placed in twenty patients – ten using flap and ten using flapless techniques. The difference in CBL was measured on standardized digital periapical radiograph taken at 0 week, 6 weeks, 12 weeks, and 6 months.

Results:

The present study showed the mean CBL on proximal surfaces when evaluated at intervals of 0 week, 6 weeks, 12 weeks, and 6 months for flapless method was significantly lower than with flap method the values of which were +0.07 mm against +0.26 mm on mesial side and +0.15 mm against +0.33 mm on distal side at 6 months.

Conclusion:

The flapless approach is a predictable procedure when patient selection and surgical technique are appropriate, and results in lesser CBL.
Analysis of Age and Gender-Related Changes in Gingival Width in Patients of Known Population: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Gandhi Vaishali , Singh Purushottam , Bakshi Rimjhim , Singh Ravpreet , Sood Ritesh , Brar Arundeep S.
Published: June 2021

Aims:

The present study was conducted for analyzing age and gender-related alterations in gingival width (GW) in patients of known population.

Materials and Methods:

Two hundred and ten healthy participants were enrolled in the present research. All the participants were divided into the following study groups with seventy participants in each group based on their age: adolescents, young adults, and older adults. All the participants were recalled and oral and periodontal examination was carried out using mouth mirror, probe, and explorer. Lidocaine spray was used for anesthetizing the anterior gingival region. A probe was used for assessing the width of the gingiva, in which and rubber stopper was fitted. In all the six maxillary anterior and mandibular anterior teeth, the width and thickness of the attached gingivae were assessed. All the measurements were recorded and analyzed.

Results:

Mean width of the attached gingiva in the maxillary arch in adolescents, young adults, and older adults were found to be 2.51 mm, 2.93 mm, and 3.92 mm, respectively. Mean width of the attached gingiva in the mandibular arch in adolescents, young adults, and older adults were found to be 1.76 mm, 2.39 mm, and 3.19 mm, respectively. Significant results were observed while comparing the GW among participants divided on the basis of age group. Nonsignificant results were observed while comparing the GW among participants divided on the basis of gender.

Conclusion:

There is a significant enhancement of GW with the advancement of age in both the maxillary arch and mandibular arch.
Oral Health-Related Quality of Life and Severity of Periodontal Disease
Authors: Bhargava Neetha , Jadhav Atul , Kumar Pratiksha , Kapoor Aliza , Mudrakola Durga Prasad , Singh Sandeep
Published: June 2021

Background:

Oral diseases are among the most common diseases which could not dissociate from general conditions with regards to impacts on quality of life (QoL). The present study is aimed to assess the impact of the severity of periodontal disease on oral health QoL using oral health-related quality of life (OHQoL)-UK questionnaire.

Materials and Methods:

The OHQoL-UK questionnaire consists of 16 variables within four domains made up of symptoms, psychological, social dimensions, and physical dimensions. Summing up the responses produce overall OHQoL-UK scores ranging from 16 to 80. Internal consistency was assessed using Cronbach's reliability coefficient. Each patient underwent a periodontal examination including periodontal attachment levels with Williams' periodontal probe as part of his or her routine assessment by one clinician collaborating on the study.

Results:

Within 200 patients participating in this study, 51% were < diploma, 32% were < bachelor's degree, and 17% were bachelor's degree and higher. Patients with higher educational level have a higher mean QoL score (P = 0.0001) which was statistically significant in regard to all aspects.

Conclusion:

The mean QoL score was significantly lower in patients with severe periodontitis when compared to patients with mild periodontitis, patients with better academic qualification have higher mean QoL score. According to the effect of severity of periodontal condition and educational level on QoL, required intervention should be done for treatment to improve QoL as a result.
Assessment of Levels of Plasma Oxidative Stress in Patient Having Aggressive Periodontitis before and after Full Mouth Disinfection
Authors: Bhagat Sachin , Singh Parthivi , Parihar Anuj Singh , Kaur Gurpreet , Takkar Harsh , Rela Rathi
Published: June 2021

Aim:

The primary purpose of the study was to evaluate the levels of oxidative stress in plasma in patients with aggressive periodontitis (AgP) before and after full-mouth disinfection.

Materials and Methods:

Twenty-five healthy controls and 25 participants with aggressive periodontal were assessed for plaque index, probing pocket depth, papillary bleeding index, and clinical attachment level. Periodontal bone support was assessed by taking full mouth periapical radiographs. Full-mouth disinfection of the patient was done within 24 h of clinical assessment of AgP. These parameters were assessed at the baseline and after 8 weeks of initial periodontal therapy. Plasma samples were taken and evaluated for various oxidative stress markers.

Results:

Strong positive correlation was observed among periodontal parameters and levels of enzymatic/nonenzymatic biomarkers for oxidative stress (thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances [TBARS], glutathione peroxidase [GPX], and catalase [CAT]) (P < 0.05), before and after periodontal management. The patients with AgP had high levels of TBARS, GPX, and CAT levels in the plasma matched to the healthy individuals (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Enzymatic and nonenzymatic oxidative stress may have a role in the pathogenesis AP. Initial periodontal treatment can lead to the reduction of these stresses.
Comparative Evaluation of Primary Stability of Two Different Types of Orthodontic Mini-Implants
Authors: Singh Jyotirmay , Singh Sanjay Kumar , Gupta Abhinav Raj , Nayak Subhash Chandra , Vatsa Ritesh , Priyadarshni Priyanka
Published: June 2021

Background:

The mini-implants introduced new possibilities of adequate anchorage in orthodontics. Furthermore, due to its small size, it can even be placed at relatively difficult sites with ease. Removal torque should be high to prevent implant unscrewing.

Objective:

This prospective clinical trial was aimed to evaluate the insertion torque and removal torque of single-threaded and double-threaded cylindrical orthodontic mini-implants.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 36 cases were randomly divided into two groups, with an equal number of patients in each group (n = 18). In Group 1 single-threaded cylindrical mini-implant was placed, and in the other group, cylindrical implants with double-threaded were placed. Maximum insertion torque (MIT) and maximum removal torques (MRTs) were recorded for both groups. Data collected were subjected to statistical analysis.

Results:

MIT was found to be significantly higher than MRT for both the groups and between the groups. Intergroup comparison in the present study showed significantly higher values for MIT than MRT. Intergroup comparison of MIT showed more values for Group 2 as compared to Group 1. Similar statistically significant values were seen in terms with MRT, where double-threaded cylindrical mini-implants had more torque value than the other group.

Conclusions:

Orthodontic mini screws represent effective temporary anchorage devices. Double-threaded cylindrical mini-implants have significantly higher insertion and removal torque than single-threaded mini-implants and hence better stability.
Assessment of Implant Stability in Immediate Implant Placement using Different Bone Grafting materials: A Clinical Study
Authors: Jalaluddin Mohammad , Sathe Saurabh , Thomas Joyce , Haleem Shaista , Naik Sachin , Shivanna Madhuniranjanswamy Mahalakshmamma
Published: June 2021

Aim:

The aim of the present study was to assess the implant stability in immediate implant placement using different bone grafting materials.

Materials and Methods:

Twelve patients (5 males, 7 females, range of 40–58 years) were included in the study. All patients were divided into two groups based on the graft material used. For Group 1, Xenograft bone grafting material was used, and for Group 2, Freeze-dried bone allograft was used. The patients were suggested to rinse with 0.2% chlorhexidine mouth wash for 1 min. Periotome was used for atraumatic tooth extraction, and necessary care was taken to avoid fracture of socket wall. The implant was placed with respective bone grafting materials. An Orthopantomogram (OPG) radiograph is taken at the day of the operation to serve as baseline data for the marginal bone level. Clinical and radiological parameters were evaluated at baseline, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months to assess the mean marginal bone level changes. Periotest was used for the measurement of implant stability.

Results:

The mean marginal bone level in Group 1 at baseline (13.58 ± 1.09), 3 months (12.64 ± 0.88), 6 months (12.02 ± 1.42), and 12 months (11.20 ± 1.26), respectively. In Group 2, the marginal bone level was at baseline (14.22 ± 0.26), 3 months (13.52 ± 1.28), 6 months (13.10 ± 0.32), and 12 months (12.12 ± 1.26), respectively. There was a statistically significant difference found in both the groups. Moreover, there was no statistically significant differences found between the groups at all the duration on intergroup comparison of the mean marginal bone level. The mean difference of implant stability in Group 1 the implant stability was 188.6 ± 22.5 and in Group 2 was 191.5 ± 18.2, and there was no statistically significant difference found between the groups.

Conclusion:

Both bone grafting materials used in the study showed improvement in implant stability and marginal bone levels after immediate placement of implant.
Prevalence of Bruxism among the Students of Gulf Medical University: A Cross-Sectional Questionnaire Study
Authors: Hussain Anam , Rizvi Marsha , Vohra Umika , Kohli Kavleen , Asim Sundus , Fikree Manahil , Ovais Zainab , Ahmed Sura Ali
Published: June 2021

Introduction:

Bruxism is a multifactorial phenomenon that involves grinding or clenching of teeth. The parafunctional habit includes abnormal tooth wear, tooth fracture, pain, and tooth mobility, along with headaches and facial muscle hypertrophy. It is imperative for students to be conscious of teeth grinding along with its possible causes. The student will be alert to visit the dentist if required and contribute to the recognition of etiological factors, to eliminate them.

Objective:

This study aims to find the prevalence and understanding of bruxism among Gulf Medical University (GMU) students.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study was conducted among 451 GMU students. The parameters for data collection were age, gender, prevalence, associated signs and symptoms, causes, genetic predisposition, time of day, and effect on the appearance of teeth.

Results:

While 35.9% were unaware, 41.7% of our samples reported bruxism. The majority recognized temporomandibular joint and facial pain as causative, and 24.8% reported symptoms. Headache (26.4%) was prime and 7.5% were associated with fracture and abnormal tooth wear to bruxism (38.1%) experienced night bruxism. A significant number of students (32.4%) identified abnormal anterior teeth relationship as the cause and (64.3%) associated bruxism and esthetics.

Conclusion:

Nearly 41.7% of the students reported bruxism. Around 35.9% of the samples were uninformed. Nearly 20.8% believed that bruxism had genetic relevance. Nearly 51.9% of the participants were asymptomatic. Around 38.1% had night bruxism and 32.4% identified abnormal anterior teeth relationship as the cause. The majority of the sample (64.3%) connected bruxism to negative effects on teeth and esthetics.
Comparison of the Efficacy of K-File, Canal Brush Technique, and Sonic Irrigation Technique in the Retrievability of Calcium Hydroxide and Metapex Intracanal Medicaments from Root Canals: An In vitro Cone-Beam Computed Tomography Analysis
Authors: Chandran Arunima , Gaffoor Faisal M. A. , Gopakumar Rethi , Girish Sabari , Soumya S. , Nair Maya R.
Published: June 2021

Background and Objectives:

At present, none of the routinely used irrigating agents and activation techniques were able to completely remove the Ca(OH)2 intracanal medicament placed inside the root canal system during endodontic therapy. With this as the background, the aim of this study was to achieve complete removal of Ca(OH)2 when mixed with two different vehicles, using various irrigant activation techniques such as K-file, canal brush technique, and sonic irrigation technique, from the root canals of extracted human teeth.

Materials and Methods:

Seventy-two mandibular premolar teeth with straight single root canal were selected and filled either with oil-based Metapex or calcium hydroxide powder mixed with distilled water and were activated using different activation techniques such as K-file, canal brush, and sonic MM1500 and NaOCl alone. Volumetric analysis was performed utilizing cone-beam computed tomography.

Results:

None of the irrigants used were able to completely remove Ca(OH)2 from root canal. Sonic MM1500 showed significant removal efficacy than K-file, canal brush technique, and NaOCl for both aqueous-based and oil-based calcium hydroxide.

Conclusion:

Sonic MM1500 performed better than K-file, canal brush technique, and NaOCl in removing both Metapex and Ca(OH)2 powder. Regardless of the vehicles and agitation technique used, the remnants of Ca(OH)2 were present on all thirds of the canal walls.
Nano-hydroxyapatite: A Driving Force for Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Rajula M. Prem Blaisie , Narayanan Vivek , Venkatasubbu G. Devanand , Mani Rekha Chandra , Sujana A.
Published: June 2021

Bone is an amazing nanocomposite tissue made of both organic (primarily collagen) and inorganic (primarily nano-hydroxyapatite [n-HA]) elements. Bone grafting is a widely used surgical technique in dental and orthopedic surgeries to enhance bone regeneration. In view of the significant drawbacks of traditional treatments, nanomaterials offer new strategies for bone regeneration. The HA with the chemical formula of Ca10(OH) 2(PO4) 6 is very identical to the inorganic portion of bone. Due to its high stability and minimal solubility, it is often used in orthopedic and dental procedures. Currently, n-HA, which facilitates the growth of new bone, has garnered considerable attention because of better bioactivity and bone integration ability when compared to porous HA. This review gives comprehensive insights related to n-HA structure, chemical composition, surface modification techniques, and their application in bone tissue engineering.
Awareness and Knowledge about Sugar Substitutes among Population in Riyadh Region
Authors: Gowdar Inderjit Murugendrappa , Aljuaid Bader Khalid , Almasaad Abdulilah Ibrahim , Bamuqadm Mohammed Abdullah , Alfaifi Tariq Ahmed , Alhoti Abdulmalik Abdullah
Published: June 2021

Background:

The food we consume will have sugar in one or the other form, which is not ideal for our teeth. This can be replaced by the use of sugar substitutes available in the market. Sugar substitutes have beneficial and adverse effects on health. In spite of their beneficial effects, long-term use of sugar substitutes is not recommended because of their health-related complications. Therefore, before consuming any sugar substitutes, everyone needs to know about both health benefits and their health hazards; hence, the present study was designed to assess the awareness, knowledge, and utilization of sugar substitutes among the general population in Riyadh Region, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Objectives:

The aim is to assess the awareness and knowledge about sugar substitutes.

Methodology:

Questionnaire consisting of demographic details, awareness, and knowledge about sugar substitutes were sent through social media and it was in the Arabic and English Language. After completing the questionnaire, participants are requested to send the link to their friends and relatives.

Results:

About 60.20% of participants were aware of sugar substitutes. Statistically significant difference was observed for gender and awareness of sugar substitutes (P < 0.05). About 31.5% of the participants are of the view that sugar substitutes have got side effects. About 61.9% of participants are of the view that Sugar substitute reduces the chance of occurrence of dental caries.

Conclusions:

Overall, 60.2% of study participants were aware of sugar substitutes, but the controversy on most of the artificial sweeteners cannot be ignored. Hence, the safety of these sweeteners is of prime importance for scientists. Any usage of sugar substitutes should be weighed against the adverse effects.
Influence of Titania Nanotubes Diameter on Its Antibacterial Efficacy against Periodontal Pathogens: An In vitro Analysis
Authors: Rajeswari S. Raja , Nandini Vidyashree , Perumal Agilan , Rajendran  , Gowda Triveni
Published: June 2021

Background:

Peri implant infection in dental implantology is a frequently encountered clinical problem. Titania nanotubes (TNTs) are recent improvement in surface characterization, showing promising results.

Aim:

The nanosurface parameter tweaking has been implicated with profound change in the microbiological and biological response. Hence, it was proposed that alteration in the nanotube diameter could have positive influence in its antibacterial activity against salient periodontal pathogens.

Materials and Methods:

Commercially, pure titanium discs of 8-mm diameter and 1.5-mm thickness were prepared. Polished titanium discs were used as control (Group A). Vertically oriented, structured TNTs were fabricated by anodization technique and grouped as B and C, having nanotube diameter, 40 and 80 nm subsequently. The surface characterizations of the samples were done by scanning electron microscope analysis. The antibacterial activity was evaluated with the bacterial colony counting method, at 24 h, 72 h, and 1-week intervals.

Statistical Analysis:

The one-way analysis of variance and Tukey's honest significance post hoc test were employed to assess the statistical significance.

Results:

The 80 nm nanotubes showed better antibacterial activity comparatively, at all three-time intervals investigated.

Conclusion:

The optimal TNT diameter of 80 nm was the most effective from an antimicrobial stand point of view.
Disinfection of Impression Materials with Glutaraldehyde, Ultraviolet Radiation, and Autoclave: A Comparative Study
Authors: Kotwal Monica , Singh Vishal Partap , Mushtaq Humaira , Ahmed Rimsha , Rai Gaurav , Kumar Amit
Published: June 2021

Background:

The present study was conducted to compare various methods of disinfection of impression materials such as glutaraldehyde, ultraviolet (UV) radiation, and autoclave.

Materials and Methods:

The present study was conducted on eighty alginate impression materials which were disinfectant with 2.2% glutaraldehyde, UV radiation, and autoclave. The pre- and postbacterial count was assessed.

Results:

The mean premicrobial contamination in Group I was 362.2 106 colony-forming unit (CFU)/ml, in Group II was 306.4 106 CFU/ml, and in Group III was 336.2 106 CFU/ml. The mean postmicrobial contamination in Group I was 65.2 106 CFU/ml, in Group II was 76.7 106 CFU/ml, and in Group III was 28.4 106 CFU/ml.

Conclusion:

The authors found that autoclave proved to be better in terms of reduction in bacterial colonies as compared to glutaraldehyde and UV radiation.
Clinical Photography Knowledge and Skills among Dental Students in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-sectional Survey
Authors: Albugami Rozan Khaled , Binmahfod Nadin Naji , Muhsin Manar Abdulkareem , Bamane Rafal Ahmad , Almuqrin Abdulrahman Dhaher , Aldahri Ohoud Abdullah , Pullishery Fawaz
Published: June 2021

Background and Aim:

Clinical photographs have become an important entity in contemporary dental education in Saudi Arabia. The study assessed the knowledge and skills related to clinical photography among final-year undergraduate dental students in different dental schools in the Western province of Saudi Arabia.

Materials and Methods:

A face-to-face interview was conducted using a pretested and validated questionnaire after obtaining relevant consent from the college administration and the students. Trained and calibrated data collectors interviewed the dental students between November 2019 and February 2020.

Results:

The knowledge related to clinical photography was “good” only in 17.2% of the participants, and most of the students demonstrated “poor” knowledge (58.9%). Digital single lens-reflex (DSLR) camera was used by only 43.9% of the students for taking clinical photographs. The practice of taking informed consent from patients for taking and using clinical photographs was reported in 77.6% of the dental students.

Conclusion:

The knowledge related to dental clinical photography was not satisfactory, and students need to improve the understanding of the proper functioning of digital cameras and also the medicolegal issues related to clinical photography.
Influence of Dental Prostheses on Cognitive Functioning in Elderly Population: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ahmed Syed Ershad , Mohan Jayashree , Kalaignan Parithimar , Kandasamy Saravanan , Raju Ramesh , Champakesan Bharath
Published: June 2021

Aim:

The aim of the systematic review was to assess the influence of dental prostheses on cognitive functioning in elderly population.

Materials and Methods:

This systematic review was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines. The initial electronic search was conducted using the following search databases: MEDLINE (PubMed), Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, and EMBASE. The search was limited to English language using the search items/keywords: “dental prostheses and cognitive functioning,” “dental prostheses and brain function,” “Tooth loss and cognitive loss,” “mastication and prefrontal activity,” and “prostheses on mental state.” The search strategy was followed using the PICOS framework.

Results:

A total of 19 studies were selected according to the selection criteria. Out of 19 studies, 15 studies were included and 4 studies were excluded from the review.

Conclusion:

With the available evidence in the literature, it can be concluded that dental prostheses have a very significant role in preventing the cognitive impairment and act as a protective factor in enhancing the cognitive function in patients with dementia-related diseases and neurodegenerative diseases.
COVID-19 Antibody Tests: An Overview
Authors: Ravi Arjun B. , Singh V. P. Prabath , Chandran Roshni , Venugopal Krishnan , Haridas Kaushik , Kavitha R.
Published: June 2021

Novel coronavirus (nCoV) first emerged in Hubei province of China in December 2019. The virus initially known as 2019-nCoV was renamed to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) by the International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses. The associated disease is known as coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). As the COVID-19 pandemic has unfolded, interest has grown in antibody testing as a way to measure how far the infection has spread and to identify individuals who may be immune. Molecular diagnostic tests like polymerase chain reaction are developed rapidly, however they are not able to fulfill all the requirements of an epidemic reaction. Hence, to complement molecular diagnostic tests, serology tests emerged as a vital aspect of the overall response by confirming the presence of antibodies during the early stage of the infection. Antibody tests help in assessing herd immunity, data about the ongoing phase of infection, identifying potential donors for convalescent plasma therapy, etc. This review currently focuses on giving an overview about the antibody tests in SARS-CoV-2 infections.
Evaluation of Quality of Endodontic Re-Treatment and Changes in Periapical Status
Authors: Aga Nausheen , Thakur Manoj Kumar , Agwan Muhammad Atif Saleem , Eisa Muna , Habshi Amel Yousif , Azeem Sarah
Published: June 2021

Background:

The present study was conducted to assess quality of root canal (RC) filling before and after RC re-treatment.

Materials and Methods:

Two hundred and thirty-eight radiographs of failed endodontic treatment were assessed. The periapical status of the endodontic treatment was evaluated with periapical index (PAI) scoring system. PAI <3 showed absence and PAI >3 showed presence of periapical lesion.

Results:

There was a statistically significant increase in scores 1 and 3 and decrease in scores 2, 4, 5, and 6 after treatment (P < 0.05). PAI score >3 was seen in 37% before which decreased to 16% after endodontic retreatment. 34.6% obturation was homogenous and 65.4% was nonhomogenous before endodontic retreatment. After endodontic retreatment, 95.2% became homogenous and 4.8% nonhomogenous. The reason for endodontic failure was furcation in 2%, iatrogenic causes in 3%, loss of coronal seal in 16%, periapical pathology in 25%, and inadequate root filling in 54%.

Conclusion:

There was significant improvement and decrease in size of periapical lesions in re-endodontic cases as compared to primary RC treated teeth.
COVID-19, Hypertension, and Diabetes – Hunt for the Link!
Authors: Saha Kaustav , Mukherjee Shatavisa
Published: June 2021

The recent pandemic outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has left everyone baffled. The exponential rise in deaths worldwide, with such an extensive rapid spread, has made it a public health emergency. While the scientists at the frontier are untiringly putting their utmost efforts to come up with evidence-based pharmacological interventions, attempts have also been made to demystify the disease link with associated comorbidities and further risk prognostication. The presence of comorbidities has been documented to be associated with increased risk of developing acute respiratory diseases. Older hypertensives have been posed to be at greater risk of being affected, with associated complications and severity in grade. Diabetic and obese individuals have also been shown to be in increased risk of infections and other complications. Cytokine storm, a major complication of this disease, has also led to adverse renal outcomes. The present review aimed to probe the possible link between COVID-19 and various comorbidities.
Carleson measure estimates and $\varepsilon$-approximation for bounded harmonic functions, without Ahlfors regularity assumptions
Authors: Garnett John
Published: June 2021

Let

\Omega

be a domain in

\mathbb{R}^{d+1}

, where

d \geq 1

. It is known that if

\Omega

satisfies a corkscrew condition and

\partial\Omega

is

d

-Ahlfors regular, then the following are equivalent:

(a) a square function Carleson measure estimate holds for bounded harmonic functions on

\Omega

;(b) an

\varepsilon

-approximation property holds for all such functions and all

0 < \varepsilon < 1

;(c)

\partial \Omega

is uniformly rectifiable.

Here we explore (a) and (b) when

\partial \Omega

is not required to be Ahlfors regular. We first observe that (a) and (b) hold for any domain

\Omega

for which there exists a domain

\tilde\Omega \subset \Omega

such that

\partial \tilde \Omega

is uniformly rectifiable and

\partial \Omega \subset \partial \tilde \Omega

. We then assume

\Omega

satisfies a corkscrew condition and

\partial \Omega

satisfies a capacity density condition. Under these assumptions, we prove conversely that if (a) or (b) holds for

\Omega

then such a domain

\tilde \Omega \supset \Omega

exists. And we give two further characterizations of domains where (a) or (b) holds. The first is that harmonic measure for

\Omega

satisfies a Carleson packing condition with respect to diameters similar to a condition comparing harmonic measures to

\mathcal{H}^d

already known to be equivalent to uniform rectifiability. The second characterization is reminiscent of the Carleson measure description of

H^{\infty}

interpolating sequences in the unit disc.
Centennials en TikTok: tipología de vídeos. Análisis y comparativa España-Gran Bretaña por género, edad y nacionalidad
Authors: Suárez-Álvarez Rebeca , García-Jiménez Antonio
Published: June 2021

Introducción: TikTok es una red social nativa digital que ha logrado generar el interés entre los adolescentes pero ¿qué tipo de contenidos crean y difunden en esta aplicación? Abordamos esta pregunta con el objetivo de conocer la tipología de vídeos que están subiendo los tiktokers adolescentes españoles y británicos a sus perfiles en esta red social. Metodología: Mediante metodología de análisis de contenido se estudian 447 vídeos de 12 tiktokers británicos y 12 españoles chicos y chicas de entre 11 y 17 años con más de medio millón de seguidores, con una visión individual y comparada de ambas nacionalidades. Resultados: Los contenidos que crean y difunden ambos géneros y nacionalidades son videoselfies, coreografías y vídeos con finalidad divertida. Los resultados muestran que los adolescentes de 16 y 17 años son los más activos en esta red social. Españoles y británicos crean y difunden vídeos con contenidos similares, siendo la edad, y no el género, la variable determinante para su producción digital. Se observa que los chicos abandonan los videojuegos para dar lugar a una auto-representación más protagónica. Discusión y conclusiones: Se observa una carencia en la pluralidad del tipo de contenidos que crean y difunden en TikTok ambos géneros y nacionalidades. Resulta interesante la atenuación de los tradicionales roles de género que los centennials muestran en sus producciones audiovisuales en TikTok, lo que refleja la posible evolución de su comportamiento de género en las redes sociales.
The “Normative” Concept of Personhood in Wiredu’s Moral Philosophy
Authors: Molefe Motsamai
Published: June 2021

The article explores the place and status of the normative concept of personhood in Kwasi Wiredu’s moral philosophy. It begins by distinguishing an ethic from an ethics, where one involves cultural values and the other strict moral values. It proceeds to argue, by a careful exposition of Wiredu’s moral philosophy, that he locates personhood as an essential aspect of communalism [an ethic], and it specifies culture-specific standards of excellence among traditional African societies. I conclude the article by considering one implication of the conclusion, which is that personhood embodies cultural values of excellence concerning the place and status of partiality in Wiredu’s moral philosophy.

Keywords: Afro-communitarianism, agent-centred personhood, Ethic, Ethics, Kwasi Wiredu, Partiality Personhood.
Studying and teaching ethnic African languages for Pan-African consciousness, Pan-Africanism and the African Renaissance: A Decolonising Task
Authors: Sesanti Simphiwe
Published: June 2021

In order to conquer and subjugate Africans, at the 1884 Berlin Conference, European countries dismembered Africa by carving her up  into pieces and sharing her among themselves. European colonialists also antagonised Africans by setting up one ethnic African  community against the other, thus promoting ethnic consciousness to undermine Pan-African consciousness. European powers also imposed their own “ethnic” languages, making them not only “official”, but also “international”. Consequently, as the Kenyan  philosopher, Ngũgῖ wa Thiong’o, persuasively argues, through their ethnic languages, European colonialists planted their memory  wherever they went, while simultaneously uprooting the memory of the colonised. Cognisant of efforts in some South African institutions of higher learning to promote African languages for the purpose of promoting literacy in African languages, this article argues that while this exercise is commendable, ethnic African languages should be deliberately taught to “re-member” Africa and rediscover Pan-African consciousness. By doing this, African scholarship would be aiding Africans’ perennial and elusive quest for Pan-Africanism and the African Renaissance.

Keywords: African Renaissance, Ethnic African Languages, Ethnic European Languages, European Colonialism, Pan-African  Consciousness, Pan-Africanism
Pharmacognostic and elemental analysis of the rhizome of C. spectabilis (Fenzl) Schumann (Costaceae)
Authors: Shehu Salisu , Abubakar Abdulmumin Z. , Danmalam Umar H. , Ilyas Najma , Danjuma Nuhu M.
Published: June 2021

The extract from the rhizome of Costus spectabilis (Costaceae) has been used to treat many illnesses including eye infections and cataract. The present study aimed to establish the pharmacognostic features of the rhizome by evaluating its macro-morphological characteristics, micro-morphological features using its anatomical section, physicochemical constants and elemental profile of its powder according to standard methods. Macro-morphology revealed features typical of a rhizome. Microscopical examination shows vascular bundles scattered throughout the ground tissue of starch-filled cellulosic parenchyma, parenchymatous cortex, endodermis and Oleoresin cells. Chemomicroscopy of the powder showed cellulosic cell walls, lignified cell walls, starch grains, fats and oil. The powder was found to have a moisture content of 12.3%, Total ash of 4.3%, acid insoluble ash of 2.0%, water soluble ash of 1.2%, water soluble extractive of 11.0% and alcohol soluble extractive of 6.5%. Elemental analysis showed the presence of Zn, Cu, Mg, Fe, Pb, Ni, Mn and Cd at concentrations of 24.62, 2.63, 1449.21, 113.23, 36.50, 31.90, 86.93 and 1.23 mg/kg in the powder respectively. The study has established some pharmacognostic features and elemental composition of the rhizome of C. spectabilis. The information could serve useful in providing quality control parameters and standardization of the crude drug.

Keywords: Macro-morphology; Microscopical; Physico-chemical; Standardization; Elemental analysis
Willingness of Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm.) students to be custodians of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM): case study of Kenyatta University, Nairobi
Authors: Ogaji Ikoni , Lubayo Jackson , Aliyu Fullaila O.
Published: June 2021

Appropriate training on standardization of quality characteristics of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) practices has the potential to pave way for integrative and collaborative healthcare delivery in African health facilities. The purpose of this study was to understand how willing pharmacy students are to taking on the custody of CAM, especially provision of expertise services on traditional medicines. A questionnaire on the willingness of Bachelor of Pharmacy students to be trained and certified as CAM experts in an integrated health system was administered to one hundred and nineteen (119) pharmacy students of Kenyatta University, Nairobi, Kenya. Ninety-four respondents (78.99 %) were excited to be trained on CAM and become experts on CAM alongside orthodox but not solely on CAM. Majority of the respondents acknowledged the important role of CAM in the nation’s healthcare delivery systembut were not ready to be trained solely as such without the commitments of governments for better status. The study revealed that with necessary support from governments and stakeholders, specialists from those desiring to study pharmacy can be developed to focus on safety, purity and efficacy of CAM, especially traditional medicines, to enhance their incorporation into the national healthcare system.

Keywords: Pharmacy students; CAM; Experts; Integrative healthcare system
Cocoa Export Permit and Quota System In Nigeria During World War II, 1939-45
Authors: Muojam OG
Published: June 2021

The cocoa trade in colonial West Africa, before World War II, had been operated through market forces. All attempts made by foreign trading firms to form ‘cocoa buying pool’ and eliminate market forces met with stiff opposition by African farmers and middlemen, the famous of which was the cocoa hold-up in Ghana in 1937-8. However, following the outbreak of World War II in 1939, the British colonial government abrogated the virtue of free market and took control of the cocoa trade in West Africa, appointing the trading firms as its buying agents. This paper examines the organisation, operations and contradictions of cocoa permit and quota system which were the principal elements of the war-time cocoa control scheme in British West Africa.