bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparing teaching of amalgam and direct posterior composite restorations to undergraduates: A cross-sectional study among faculties from the Department of Conservative Dentistry & Endodontics in Kerala, India
Authors: P Mohanan Remya , Chandrababu K , Prabhu Sudheer Kumar R , Shoba Krishnamma , Sheena Peethambaran
Published: March 2024

Background:

Posterior composites are widely used in dental practice today. But whether the undergraduate dental curriculum equip the students with the knowledge and skills in posterior composite placement is questionable. Further, amalgam seems to be an ideal choice of restoration by a few dental professionals. Thus this study aims to compare the theoretical, pre-clinical, and clinical curricular aspects of amalgam and direct posterior restoration from the perspective of dental teaching faculty.

Materials and Methods:

This observational cross-sectional study was conducted across all dental colleges in Kerala. A questionnaire designed through google forms were sent to 100 dental teaching faculty, selected by random sampling. The responses were entered in Microsoft excel and analysed using Statistical Product and Service Solution (SPSS) trial version 25. Appropriate descriptive and inferential statistics were employed.

Results:

Only 34.1% of the dental teaching faculty strongly agreed on the adequacy of the theoretical aspects of posterior composite restoration compared to 69.3% for amalgam restorations. Fifty percent of the study participants believed that amalgam will be completely replaced by posterior composite in future. Eighty three percent of the dental teaching faculty pointed out the inadequacy of time in preclinical exercises for posterior composite restorations.

Conclusion:

The findings highlighted inadequacy in the theoretical, pre-clinical, and clinical aspects of teaching posterior composite restorations among dental undergraduates and warranted the curricular reforms should be made accordingly.
Evaluation of antioxidant application on bond strength of composite resins to bleached enamel
Authors: Suthakar Surya , Narasimhappa Vathsala , Sreenivasalu Pavan Kumar Pavagada , Shankaregowda Adarsha Mandya , Palathingal Anshida Valiya , Airsang Akshata Jagadish
Published: March 2024

Aim:

This study aims to assess and evaluate the application of 10% sodium ascorbate, 5% green tea extract, 5% pomegranate peel extract, and 5% grape seed extract on shear bond strength of composite to bleached enamel.

Materials and Methods:

Sixty extracted human maxillary central incisors were randomly divided into seven groups. The enamel surface of these specimens was bleached with hydrogen peroxide (35%), except group VII (control group). Postbleaching, the specimens of group II were placed in artificial saliva for 2 weeks before restoration and the specimens of groups III and IV and groups V and VI underwent antioxidant application; 10% sodium ascorbate, 5% green tea extract, 5% pomegranate peel extract, 5% grape seed extract, respectively, for 10 min, followed by composite resin restoration, respectively. The specimens of group I were restored with composite resin immediately after bleaching. The specimens’ shear bond strength was tested using universal testing equipment. The data obtained were statistically analyzed using a one-way analysis of variance and the Tukey post hoc test.

Results:

There was no statistically significant difference in the effects of various antioxidants on the shear bond strength of bleached enamel.

Conclusion:

Within the constraints of the study, it was concluded that the application of antioxidants efficiently recovered the bond strength of bleached enamel. The application of 5% grape seed extract treatment demonstrated better bond strength among the antioxidants tested.

Clinical Significance:

Antioxidants can be used immediately following bleaching to restore resin composite bond strength without the requirement of delay in the treatment to reduce the nascent oxygen species in bleached teeth.
Peer influence and its impact on behavior among South Indian adolescents: A descriptive cross-sectional study
Authors: Alexander Jisha M. , Yesodharan Renjulal , Nayak Malathi G.
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND:

Peer influence, the development of attitudes, and behavioral changes are some of the phenomenal changes that happen in adolescence.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A descriptive cross-sectional study was undertaken to find out the association between peer influence and behavior among 355 adolescents within the age group of 16 to 18 years, randomly chosen from Pre-university schools of Udupi district, Karnataka using the Peer Influence Scale (PIS) and Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ).

RESULT:

The results indicate that their peers highly influenced 43.9% of the participants. Meanwhile, 23.1% and 7.9% of adolescents who participated in the survey showed borderline and abnormal behavior, respectively. The association between peer influence and behaviour was assessed using the Chi-square test; the results (χ2=14.545, P = 0.001) revealed that peers highly influence adolescent behavior and change adolescent conduct significantly.

CONCLUSION:

Adolescents should be aware of the accepted and non-accepted behaviors in society and be wise in choosing the right peers who later influence their behavior. Parents need to check the conduct of their children and guide them in developing their identity.
Impact of social factors responsible for Juvenile delinquency – A literature review
Authors: Abhishek R , Balamurugan J
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND:

Juvenile delinquency appears to be the most widespread social issue in comparison to other social issues. Social factors and conditions have a significant impact on the prevalence of delinquency. Individuals who engage in criminal behavior before reaching the age of 18 are commonly referred to as juvenile offenders. The aim of this study is to comprehensively elucidate the research and work carried out on juvenile offenders, with a specific focus on the critical role played by social factors in all facets of juvenile delinquency. Additionally, this research seeks to investigate the social roots and influences that contribute to the criminal behavior of young offenders.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This article uses a literature review methodology to analyze research on social factors influencing juvenile delinquency. It synthesizes and evaluates prior findings to understand the complex interplay between social factors and young individuals’ involvement in delinquent behaviors. The study analyzed 80 articles from reputable online databases, focusing on juvenile delinquency, offenders, crime, and social factors. Out of the 80 articles, 53 were cited, meeting inclusion criteria, including publication within 2000–2023, rigorous peer-review, and reputable database indexing.

RESULTS:

As per the findings of the research, it has been observed that children who grow up in households that exhibit affection, hospitality, and encouragement are comparatively less susceptible to the manifestation of societal maladies. Children who have experienced parental abandonment are at heightened risk of developing delinquent behaviors.

CONCLUSION:

The presence of negative family dynamics and associations with delinquent peers are widely recognized as significant contributors to the development of drug abuse behavior. It is imperative for policymakers and preventive initiatives to have a comprehensive understanding of this complex relationship. Therefore, this literature review presented a distinct overview of the influence of social factors on juvenile offenders in India.
Efficacy of Google Form–based MCQ tests for formative assessment in medical biochemistry education
Authors: Panchbudhe Sanjyoti , Shaikh Simran , Swami Hanmant , Kadam Charushila Y. , Padalkar Ramchandra , Shivkar Rajni R. , Gulavani Gouri , Gulajkar Supriya , Gawade Shubhangi , Mujawar Farheen
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND:

Biochemistry, being a vast and complex subject, can be challenging for Phase I MBBS students to comprehend and retain. Embracing rapidly evolving technology can facilitate a more accessible learning experience. In this study, we investigated the effectiveness of using Google Form–based multiple-choice question (MCQ) tests as a formative assessment tool after each biochemistry lecture series. The aim was to assess the improvement and gather feedback of Phase I MBBS students on the utility of this assessment tool.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This educational prospective longitudinal study was conducted by the Department of Biochemistry at a university-affiliated medical college and tertiary care hospital. The study included 150 Phase I MBBS students as participants. Google Form–based MCQ tests were implemented as educational interventions after each lecture series during the study period. The study compared the internal assessment (IA) MCQ marks of students before and after the implementation of the intervention. In addition, feedback questionnaires were collected from the students.

RESULTS:

There was a significant improvement in students’ scores between the first IA (mean ± standard deviation [SD], 8.16 ± 3.08) and second IA (mean ± SD, 17.64 ± 2.02) (P < 0.0001). According to students’ feedback, 149 out of 150 (99.3%) students found the use of Google Form–based MCQ tests as a formative assessment tool in the teaching–learning process to be highly beneficial and motivated them to engage in their biochemistry studies.

CONCLUSION:

With the shift toward competency-based medical education (CBME) in India, it is crucial for educators to embrace novel teaching–learning and evaluation approaches. Our study highlighted the efficacy of employing Google Form–based MCQ tests in enhancing students’ comprehension of the biochemistry subject, evaluating their scores and improving the overall quality of learning. Through this mode of assessment, teachers were able to provide targeted feedback on areas that required improvement, thereby enhancing the learning experience.
Role of Personality Traits in Adherence to COVID 19 Precautions among Outpatient Department Patients in Tertiary Care Dental Hospital in Delhi – A Cross sectional Study
Authors: Gupta Radhika , Mohanty Vikrant , Balappanavar Aswini Y. , Chahar Puneet , Rijhwani Kavita , Bhatia Sonal
Published: March 2024

Background:

Due to the high transmissibility of COVID-19, the government has implemented certain precautionary measures aimed at flattening the curve of infection and limiting the spread of the disease. Personality traits of an individual have been found as one of the main determinants that might affect adherence to preventive personal practices.

Aim:

This study aimed to assess the role of personality traits in adherence to COVID-19 precautions among the patients attending outpatient department (OPD) in a tertiary care dental hospital in Delhi.

Methodology:

A cross-sectional questionnaire survey was conducted among 400 participants aged 15–70 years attending the OPD of a public sector tertiary care dental hospital in New Delhi. A convenience sampling technique was utilized to collect the data for 2 months’ period. A self-administered validated questionnaire was used to record demographic variables, COVID-19-related status, personality traits (using 20-item Mini-International Personality Item Pool), and self-reported adherence to COVID-19 precautions. The association between personality traits with precautionary behaviors and demographic factors was analyzed using the Mann–Whitney U-test, Kruskal–Wallis test, and Spearman correlation.

Results:

Of the 400 participants, 193 were male and 207 female. Participants belonging to the 20–34 years of age group (44.3%), high income (<99,931 INR, 51.3%), and professionals-semiprofessional’s occupation (9%) were more adherent to COVID-19 precautions. A significant association was found between personality traits with education status (agreeableness, P = 0.017 and imaginative, P = 0.007) and gender (neuroticism, P = 0.03). Regarding the potential influence of Big Five personality traits, only conscientiousness shows a statistically significant association with adherence to COVID-19 precautions (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

This study concluded that only personality factors such as conscientiousness and demographic variables such as age, income, and occupation are directly associated with greater adherence to COVID-19 precautions.
Assessment of Oral Health-related Quality of Life and Nutritional Status in Institutionalized Elderly Goan Population: A Descriptive, Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Kaur Loveleen , Aras Meena Ajay , Chitre Vidya , Nagarsekar Aradhana , Mascarenhas Kennedy , Ferreira Amanda Nadia , Da Costa Fhelen , Gaunkar Ridhima Birmani
Published: March 2024

Background:

The geriatric population is continuously at risk for nutritional deficiency and malnutrition, especially in developing countries like India. The aim of this study was to determine if the oral health-related quality of life is associated with malnutrition among the institutionalized elderly Goan population.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted among the institutionalized elderly in Goa. The elderly was assessed by a 12-item Geriatric Oral Health Assessment Index (GOHAI) questionnaire and the Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) test. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data using the SPSS version 21.

Results:

There were 102 elderly participants, of which 60.8% were females. The majority of study subjects (83%) were between the age group of 65 and 74 years. Among the assessed subjects, nearly 55.9% of them had a total score of GOHAI between 12 and 57 which was categorized as “needed dental care.” As per MNA, 32.4% had adequate nutrition, 65.7% were at risk of malnutrition, and the remaining 2% of subjects were malnourished. There was a significant correlation between GOHAI and MNA scores.

Conclusion:

In the elderly, nutritional status played a significant role in the oral health quality of life. The geriatric denture population is particularly vulnerable to compromised nutritional health.
Provisioning Oral Health Care through Indian Public Health Standards, 2022
Authors: Das Diptajit , Gupta Arpit
Published: March 2024

The Indian Public Health Standards (IPHS) were initially developed in 2007 to provide an effective and optimal level of quality health care in our country. IPHS was later revised in 2012, and more recently, in 2022. IPHS revised guidelines for 2022 take into account several new initiatives and programs, including Ayushman Bharat Health and Wellness Centers, the introduction of the National Urban Health Mission and Urban Primary Health Centers (polyclinics) in urban areas. These revised guidelines also make provision for the delivery of oral health services at each facility level. This review highlights the oral health-care services and delivery mechanisms mentioned in all the four volumes of IPHS revised guidelines 2022 under the headings of infrastructure, human resource, service provisions and essential drugs, diagnostics, and equipment required at all the levels of health care.
The Effect of Lycopene Administration in Periodontal Diseases: A Systematic Review and Meta analysis
Authors: Sanadi Rizwan M. , Mandavkar Samiksha Ashok , Patil Ekta Anant , Chaudhari Shraddha Raghu
Published: March 2024

Background: Lycopene is a dietary antioxidant which provides defense against oxidation. Oxidative stress may result in periodontal tissue damage. There is a positive relationship between lycopene consumption and reduction in the risk of development of degenerative diseases caused by free radicals, such as periodontitis and other diseases like cancer, cardiovascular diseases, asthma, arthritis, stroke, hepatitis. This systematic review discusses the studies conducted to assess the effect of lycopene in periodontal health. Aim: To evaluate the effect of lycopene in maintaining periodontal health. Search Methods: An electronic database search was conducted from the following databases: PubMed, EBSCO Host, Science Direct, EMBASE and Google scholar. Selection Criteria: Randomized controlled trials, experimental studies, case-control studies, and cohort studies published in peer reviewed journals in English language were included. Case reports, case series, animal model studies, in-vitro studies, studies where lycopene was combined with other antioxidants or with additional therapeutic methods and unpublished research were excluded. Data Collection and Analysis: Total 36451 results were obtained after database search. It included case- control studies, experimental studies, reviews and randomized control trials. Out of which, only six studies satisfied the selection criteria. Data extraction sheet was prepared & the studies were analyzed. Results: Out of the six studies analyzed, all were randomized controlled trial. Conclusion: Lycopene has been used widely as an antioxidant in the treatment of chronic diseases. However, Literature is deficient in the studies regarding the effect of lycopene on periodontal health.
Oral Health Status and Treatment Needs among Patients with Oral Potentially Malignant Disorders – A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Bhat Padma K. , Mohandas Nayana , Jayachandra MY , Rangan Vinod
Published: March 2024

Background:

Oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs) such as oral leukoplakia, erythroplakia, lichen planus, and oral submucous fibrosis have been shown to have a high rate of transformation to oral cancer. Although many studies have already been done on the risk factors of OPMDs and oral cancer, there are only a few literature on oral health status of patients suffering from OPMDs in Indian scenario.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to assess the oral health status and treatment needs of patients with OPMDs.

Methodology:

A descriptive cross-sectional survey was carried out at the Department of Oncology, Rajarajeswhwari Medical college and hospital and Outpatient Department of Rajarajeswari Dental College and Hospital in Bengaluru after obtaining required permission from the concerned authorities and due ethical clearance. Clinical examination was conducted using the World Health Organization Oral Health Assessment Form for Adults, 2013.

Results:

Majority of the participants were males, with an age range of 21–75 years, and majority were suffering from leukoplakia (49.9%). Decayed, missing, and filled tooth component was statistically significant (P< 0.05) when comparing mean Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth scores between age, gender, and socioeconomic status. The highest CPI score (score of 2) was found highest in participants (32.47%) with leukoplakia. Regarding the treatment needs, about 94.5% of the participants needed prompt treatment (including scaling).

Conclusion:

Results revealed that the oral health status of participants with OPMD was average. The CPI score (periodontal status) was high in most participants with OPMD, with the maximum score of 2 found in a large number of participants.
Artificial Intelligence in Dentistry
Authors: Shinde Sachin , Patil Yojana , Jamkhande Amol , Shah Yashodharaa , Kakde Neelam , Waghmare Pramod , Sonone Rachna , Pote Snehal , Vaidya Isha
Published: March 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a technological breakthrough that is rapidly progressing all over the world. AI has a variety of uses in medicine and dentistry, ranging from data analysis to using neural networks for diagnosis. AI has received enormous attention and has gone through a transition stage from being a pure statistical tool to being one of the main drivers of modern medicine. We are at the dawn of a new era, and AI is undoubtedly the future of dental practice management. This aim article is to review the various applications of AI in all the specialties of dentistry.
Factors Determining Publication in a Journal: A Questionnaire Study among Dentists of Odisha
Authors: Nanda Jagruti , Satyarup Dharmashree , Panigrahi Priyanca
Published: March 2024

Introduction:

Research activities have increased manifold due to the importance of scientific publication in advancing an academic career. Researchers find it strenuous to choose journals due to the availability of a higher number of scientific journals.

Objectives:

The objective of this study was to determine the various journal factors that affect its selection to publish research work and the motivating factors involved in it.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 219 dental professionals that included dental faculties, postgraduate students, and private dental practitioners of Odisha, through a self-administered questionnaire via Google Forms consisting of 15 items. Descriptive statistics and Chi-square test were used for statistical analysis with a level of significance set at 0.05.

Results:

Respondents were predominantly dental faculty (53%). Factors influencing journal selection were citation of the journal (89.4%), followed by impact factor and indexing of the journal. Less than half (42.4%) agreed to pay the publishing charges. It was observed that PubMed indexing was preferred, followed by Scopus. The reason to publish was different for faculty and postgraduate students.

Conclusions:

Researchers consider various factors before publishing in a journal with the intent of discoverability and recognition. The study revealed that indexing of journals and impact factor as important aspects of choosing a journal for publication.
Effect of Sterilization on Different Community Periodontal Index of Treatment Needs Probe Ball Dimension: An Analytical Study
Authors: Medha Vaidhya , Nagappa Karibasappa Gundabaktha , Ankita Vidhate , Kulkarni Shriram Gururaj , Bharatesh J. V. , Yogita Vaidhya
Published: March 2024

Background:

Quantification of disease is an important procedure for an appropriate planning. Periodontal pocket determination helps to measure the extent and severity of periodontal disease. Community Periodontal Index of Treatment Needs (CPITN) periodontal probe and its ball dimension are very important in true estimation of disease.

Methodology:

Probe 1, Probe 2, and Probe 3 ball dimensions were measured from baseline after subjecting to autoclaving, microwave, and Korsolex sterilization. Rapid I Vision Measuring System was used to measure the ball dimension. The CPITN probe ball dimensions were measured at baseline, 10th, 20th, and 40th cycles of different sterilization methods.

Results:

CPITN ball dimension of different brands did not meet the World Health Organization specifications before the start of the study, and there was a linear and gradual reduction in ball dimension of all the probes after each cycle of sterilization. There was a reduction in the dimensions after the 20th cycle of sterilization. Probe 1 had better dimensional stability, and Korsolex solution had the least effect on ball dimension in all the probes.

Conclusion:

CPITN probe should be discontinued after the 40th cycle of sterilization in order to avoid inaccurate diagnosis, and in field surveys, Korsolex solution could be recommended to increase the longevity of the probe.
Association of spiritual well-being with quality of life among undergraduate nursing students
Authors: Shahid Ahmad , Hussain Hina , Shuaib Nazia , Rasool Ahmad , Younis Fatima , Nasab Zoya
Published: March 2024

Objective:

The study was conducted with the aim of determining the spiritual well-being (SWB) of nursing students and its association with quality of life (QOL).

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted with a sample size of 504 nursing students collected from January 2023 to March 2023 in the nursing institutes of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, using convenient sampling techniques. A Spiritual Health and Life-Orientation Measure (SHALOM) questionnaire for SWB and K-27 QOL (K-27 QOL) instrument were used for data collection that contains three parts.

Results:

The number of female participants was in the majority (50.4%) compared to male nurses (49.6%). The overall mean score of SWB of the students was 3.79 ± 0.48, while the mean K-27 QOL score was 3.73 ± 0.57. There were significant differences between the groups of gender (P = 0.001), while no significant difference within the groups of semester (P = 0.061) and college status (0.285). In QOL, there were significant differences within the groups of semester (P = 0.000) and college status (P = 0.036) while no significant difference in gender category (P = 0.480). SHALOM score is positively and moderately correlated with QOL score (r = 0.597, P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Spiritual practices are one of the important factors that are associated positively with QOL, therefore to enhance the QOL, it will require spiritual practices.
Vasoactive-ventilation-renal (VVR) score: A potential tool for predicting early postoperative outcomes in adult mitral valve surgery
Authors: Kiran K. S. Ram , Parikh Nirav , Venuthurupalli Rajesh S. P. , Haranal Maruti , Pandya Himani , Kapoor Anuj , Patel Kaushal P.
Published: March 2024

Background and Aims:

Vasoactive-ventilation-renal (VVR) score has been validated in predicting postoperative outcomes in pediatric cardiac surgery. The aim was to evaluate its potential in predicting early postoperative outcomes in adult patients undergoing mitral valve surgery.

Material and Methods:

A single-center prospective observational study involved 100 patients undergoing mitral valve surgery. We evaluated preoperative variables (Ambler score), VVR, and vasoactive-inotropic score (VIS) on admission to the intensive care unit (ICU) and then at 12, 24, and 48 hrs postoperatively. Outcomes assessed were length of stay in ICU (LOS-ICU), length of hospital stay (LOHS), and mortality. The data were analyzed using multivariable logistic regression model, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, and areas under curve (AUC).

Conclusion:

Our study showed the potential utility of the VVR score as a powerful tool for predicting early outcomes after mitral valve surgery, with VVR at 48 hrs having superior predictive capability.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice on Brucellosis among the Rural Population in Nagpur, Maharashtra, India
Authors: Ghugey Satish L , Deshmukh Jyotsna S , Ghugey Apurva V , Chaudhari Sandeep P , Ghugey Abhinav V
Published: March 2024

Introduction:

Brucellosis is a disease that can have severe consequences for both humans and animals, resulting in considerable economic losses due to its impact on human health and animal productivity. To prevent the transmission of this disease from animals to humans, it is essential to improve the community’s knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP). This study aimed to evaluate the KAP and associated risk factors for human brucellosis among rural populations in Nagpur, Maharashtra, India.

Materials and Methods:

Using closed-ended questionnaires, a cross-sectional study was conducted to collect data on demographics and risk exposure variables from 382 participants. The collected data were entered into Microsoft Excel and analyzed using SPSS. Descriptive statistics were used to evaluate demographic features and KAP

Results:

78.5% were male, and 21.5% were female. Their ages ranged from 18 to 90 years, and 92.1% were married. Only 4.5% of respondents had heard of brucellosis, 21.5% consumed unpasteurized milk, 3.9% used protective gloves while assisting during calving, and 15.4% milked the animal. Furthermore, 21.2% buried animal birth products, 10.9% burned animal birth products, and 13.6% threw animal birth products in the dustbin. Overall, the respondents’ attitude was average to poor

Conclusion:

This study revealed that the rural population has poor knowledge and high-risk self-reported practices and behaviors for brucellosis. Therefore, enhancing public health education and local organizational involvement is imperative to increase the community’s capacity to prevent brucellosis as an integral part of the National Control Program on Brucellosis in India.
Highlighting the Effect of Pro-inflammatory Mediators in the Pathogenesis of Periodontal Diseases and Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Hashim Nada , Babiker Rasha , Mohammed Riham , Chaitanya Nallan CSK , Rahman Muhammed M. , Gismalla Bakri
Published: March 2024

ABSTRACT

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurological condition that is much more common as people get older. It may start out early or late. Increased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and microglial activation, both of which contribute to the central nervous system’s inflammatory state, are characteristics of AD. As opposed to this, periodontitis is a widespread oral infection brought on by Gram-negative anaerobic bacteria. By releasing pro-inflammatory cytokines into the systemic circulation, periodontitis can be classified as a “low-grade systemic disease.” Periodontitis and AD are linked by inflammation, which is recognized to play a crucial part in both the disease processes. The current review sought to highlight the effects of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are released during periodontal and Alzheimer’s diseases in the pathophysiology of both conditions. It also addresses the puzzling relationship between AD and periodontitis, highlighting the etiology and potential ramifications.
Knowledge and Preparedness of Dentists in Response to Bioterrorism
Authors: Chaitanya Nallan CSK , Chelluri Shreya Reddy , Saba Asra , Priya Sivan Padma , Hashim Nada Tawfig , Shetty Shishir Ram , Padmanabhan Vivek , Shaga Pranathi , Pulluri Saraswathi Sravani , Bahra Shadi El
Published: March 2024

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

In the current climate of heightened terrorist activity, the deliberate release or threat of biological agents like viruses, bacteria, fungi, or their toxins to induce sickness or death among civilians has become a genuine possibility. The most crucial action during a bioterrorist strike is early warning. The possibility of such an occurrence in dental setting is underestimated.

Methods and Materials:

Seventy five graduate students participated in the research. In a survey on zoonotic diseases, participants were asked whether they were familiar with the transmission from person to person, if the diseases caused significant morbidity and mortality, whether they were simple to produce and disseminate, and whether they posed a high risk of infection.

Results:

Graph Prism was used to examine the data. A single proportion test was used to determine the “Aware Not Aware” group. The first 10 questions assessed dentists objective knowledge of bioterrorism. The importance of the last six questions was determined by their analysis of dentists’ preparedness and desire to respond to a bioterrorism associated occurrence via perceived knowledge.

Conclusion:

Given the real danger they may face, dentists needed to be vigilant regarding the prevention, detection, and treatment of zoonotic illnesses transmitted in their offices or as a vector while being commended for their courage in the face of adversity.
Artificial intelligence in pharmacovigilance – Opportunities and challenges
Authors: Desai Mira Kirankumar
Published: March 2024

Pharmacovigilance (PV) is a data-driven process to identify medicine safety issues at the earliest by processing suspected adverse event (AE) reports and extraction of health data. The PV case processing cycle starts with data collection, data entry, initial checking completeness and validity, coding, medical assessment for causality, expectedness, severity, and seriousness, subsequently submitting report, quality checking followed by data storage and maintenance. This requires a workforce and technical expertise and therefore, is expensive and time-consuming. There has been exponential growth in the number of suspected AE reports in the PV database due to smart collection and reporting of individual case safety reports, widening the base by increased awareness and participation by health-care professionals and patients. Processing of the enormous volume and variety of data, making its sensible use and separating “needles from haystack,” is a challenge for key stakeholders such as pharmaceutical firms, regulatory authorities, medical and PV experts, and National Pharmacovigilance Program managers. Artificial intelligence (AI) in health care has been very impressive in specialties that rely heavily on the interpretation of medical images. Similarly, there has been a growing interest to adopt AI tools to complement and automate the PV process. The advanced technology can certainly complement the routine, repetitive, manual task of case processing, and boost efficiency; however, its implementation across the PV lifecycle and practical impact raises several questions and challenges. Full automation of PV system is a double-edged sword and needs to consider two aspects – people and processes. The focus should be a collaborative approach of technical expertise (people) combined with intelligent technology (processes) to augment human talent that meets the objective of the PV system and benefit all stakeholders. AI technology should enhance human intelligence rather than substitute human experts. What is important is to emphasize and ensure that AI brings more benefits to PV rather than challenges. This review describes the benefits and the outstanding scientific, technological, and policy issues, and the maturity of AI tools for full automation in the context to the Indian health-care system.
Parents’ perception and level of readiness to change toward childhood obesity and overweight in Riyadh
Authors: Alshahran Turki Mari , Rahman Saeed U
Published: March 2024

Background:

Childhood obesity is considered one of the most prevalent health problems in Saudi Arabia. When attempting to prevent such a problem, parents’ perceptions of their child’s weight status are critical factors to consider.

Objectives:

This research aimed to understand parents’ perception and level of readiness to bring change to mitigate childhood obesity and overweight in Riyadh.

Materials and Methods:

This is a cross-sectional study conducted in primary schools of National Guard Housing Compounds in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. In this study, 320 primary school children of both genders and their parents were recruited. Measurements of weight and height and the body mass index (BMI) percentile were done, and the questionnaire was distributed to be filled out by their parents. Items of the questionnaire included demographic information about the parents and their perceptions of the child’s weight status, their beliefs toward obesity, their assessment of dietary and physical activity, and their level of readiness to change the child’s diet and physical activity.

Results:

A total of 28% of parents misperceive their children to be overweight or obese. Furthermore, parents with a higher BMI have children with a higher BMI, and the relationship was found to be statistically significant (p-value of 0.05) for fathers and (p-value of 0.01) for mothers. Moreover, the parental belief that spending more screen time is the cause of childhood obesity was also found to be significantly associated with the higher BMI status of the child at a P value of 0.02. Furthermore, with a P value of 0.001, parental readiness to change the diet and physical activity of children is significantly associated with an improved lifestyle in children.

Conclusions:

The parents included in the current study demonstrated a higher level of readiness to make positive changes in the diet of their children as well as improve their physical activity. These findings provide hope for involving parents in the prevention of childhood obesity in Saudi Arabia.
Lightweight Cryptography for Internet of Things: A Review
Authors: Amrita  , Ekwueme Chika Paul , Adam Ibrahim Hussaini , Dwivedi Avinash
Published: March 2024

The paper examines the rising significance of security in Internet of Things (IoT) applications and emphasizes the need for lightweight cryptographic solutions to protect IoT devices. It acknowledges the growing prevalence of IoT in various fields, where sensors collect data, and computational systems process it for action by actuators. Due to IoT devices' resource limitations and networked nature, security is a concern. The article compares different lightweight cryptographic block cipher algorithms to determine the best approach for securing IoT devices. It also discusses the merits of hardware versus software solutions and explores potential security threats, including intrusion and manipulation. Additionally, the article outlines future work involving the implementation of the trusted Advanced Standard Encryption block cipher in IoT devices, including its use in quick-response (QR) code scanning and messaging platforms. It acknowledges existing drawbacks and suggests areas for improvement in IoT system performance and security.
On finite groups in which all minimal subgroups are BNA-subgroups
Authors: Wang Yanhui , Guo Xiuyun
Published: March 2024

A subgroup

H

of a group

G

is said to be a BNA-subgroup of

G

if either

H^{x}= H

or

x \in \langle H, H^{x}\rangle

for all

x\in G

. The purpose of this paper is first to give the best bound for the Fitting height of

G

if all minimal subgroups of

G

are BNA-subgroups of

G

, and next to give an answer to the question of He, Li, and Wang [Rend. Semin. Mat. Univ. Padova 136 (2016), 51–60]. Finally, we use a few BNA-subgroups of prime order to determine the structure of the finite groups. In fact, some new conditions for a finite group to be supersolvable have been given.
Amebic liver abscess: An update
Authors: Kumar Ramesh , Patel Rishabh , Priyadarshi Rajeev Nayan , Narayan Ruchika , Maji Tanmoy , Anand Utpal , Soni Jinit R
Published: March 2024

Amebic liver abscess (ALA) is still a common problem in the tropical world, where it affects over three-quarters of patients with liver abscess. It is caused by an anaerobic protozoan Entamoeba hystolytica , which primarily colonises the cecum. It is a non-suppurative infection of the liver consisting primarily of dead hepatocytes and cellular debris. People of the male gender, during their reproductive years, are most prone to ALA, and this appears to be due to a poorly mounted immune response linked to serum testosterone levels. ALA is more common in the right lobe of the liver, is strongly associated with alcohol consumption, and can heal without the need for drainage. While majority of ALA patients have an uncomplicated course, a number of complications have been described, including rupture into abdomino-thoracic structures, biliary fistula, vascular thrombosis, bilio-vascular compression, and secondary bacterial infection. Based on clinico-radiological findings, a classification system for ALA has emerged recently, which can assist clinicians in making treatment decisions. Recent research has revealed the role of venous thrombosis-related ischemia in the severity of ALA. Recent years have seen the development and refinement of newer molecular diagnostic techniques that can greatly aid in overcoming the diagnostic challenge in endemic area where serology-based tests have limited accuracy. Metronidazole has been the drug of choice for ALA patients for many years. However, concerns over the resistance and adverse effects necessitate the creation of new, safe, and potent antiamebic medications. Although the indication of the drainage of uncomplicated ALA has become more clear, high-quality randomised trials are still necessary for robust conclusions. Percutaneous drainage appears to be a viable option for patients with ruptured ALA and diffuse peritonitis, for whom surgery represents a significant risk of mortality.With regard to all of the aforementioned issues, this article intends to present an updated review of ALA.
We shall live: the experiences and responses of women to marginality in the ongoing Alavanyo - Nkonya land conflict in Ghana
Authors: Awienagua Gariba Joshua
Published: March 2024

This paper focuses on how women deal with challenges of marginality in the Alavanyo and Nkonya land conflict in Ghana. Using ethnographic data, the paper examines the collective and specific experiences of women and how they negotiate and navigate the challenges of marginality. The study observes that while marginality has become an enduring quality defining how women navigate everyday life, it also remains a contingent historical construction that could be contested so that women’s access to power, land, livelihoods and property may be negotiated in a way that may lead to the achievement of their social mobility aspirations and futures.
False opinion or false alarm? About the criminal liability of an expert for giving a false opinion
Authors: Hrehorowicz Małgorzata
Published: March 2024

This article aims to address the significance of the problem regarding the issuance of false expert opinions in practice. This issue is of great importance and considerably consequential for the public opinion. An expert opinion that is unfavorable to a party often raises suspicions of bribery and manipulation. However, not every litigant’s dissatisfaction necessarily implies a criminal offense. This article highlights the magnitude of the problem of false expert opinions in the Polish justice system and the consequential effects associated with it.

In the preparation of the article, a review of domestic and international literature and an analysis of criminal case files on the offence of Article 233 § 4 of the Penal Code were used. The results of the research show that the issue of the crime of issuing a false opinion by an expert has not yet received a comprehensive analysis in the domestic and international literature. The number of criminal cases concerning the issuance of a false opinion by an expert is not significant. Courts usually acquit defendants of this offence which may mean that it is difficult to prove in practice. However, the problem is not as high profile as it presents itself to the public. The results of the research can be used to supplement theoretical considerations of the issue. The results can also be used by practitioners to introduce changes to increase the effectiveness of prosecuting the perpetrators of these crimes or to analyse legislative changes.
Grunt jej mać. Kobiece narracje z górnośląskich marginesów – prolegomena
Authors: Pospiszil-Hofmańska Karolina
Published: March 2024

Celem artykułu jest przedstawienie wybranych kobiecych narracji z rolniczych peryferii Górnego Śląska – ziemi hulczyńskiej. Autorka skupia się na twórczości Evy Tvrdej i Anny Malchárkovej, ich autousytuowaniu, sposobie opowieści oraz na punktach wspólnych ich narracji o autochtonkach. Miejscowe kobiety w ciągu XX wieku musiały się mierzyć z wielopłaszczyznową dyskryminacją – częściowo ze względu na pochodzenie etniczne i wiarę, częściowo ze względu na płeć. Wychowane w patriarchalnej kulturze podlegały jej wzorcom i powielały je, ale ich pozycja względem mężczyzn była ambiwalentna – potrafiły przejąć ich obowiązki, chciały także decydować o wykonywanej przez siebie pracy reprodukcyjnej. Istotna dla protagonistek analizowanych tekstów jest ich więź z ziemią, odkrywana ponownie przez ich potomkinie. Wnuczki jednak częściowo zmieniają schematy wypracowane przez babcie i matki, przerywając krąg milczenia i cichej akceptacji własnego losu.
Hybrid Naive Bayes Classifier dan Markov Chain Untuk Prediksi Tingkat Penggunaan Quick Response Indonesian Standard (QRIS)
Authors: Chairina Chairina , Widyasari Rina , Siregar Machrani Adi Putri
Published: March 2024

Sistem pembayaran berbasis digital telah menyediakan beragam format dan interaksi pembayaran. Mengingat manfaat dan efektivitas kode Quick Response, Bank Indonesia menetapkan teknologi tersebut sebagai standar penggunaan metode pembayaran. Metode Hybrid Naϊve Bayes Classifier dan Markov Chain merupaka metode klasifikasi dan prediksi yang dapat digunakan untuk memprediksi tingkat penggunaan QRIS pada penelitian ini. Data yang digunakan berasal dari data Bank Indonesia Kota Medan pada Januari tahun 2020 sampai Februari 2023 dengan 3 parameter tingkat penggunaan QRIS. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan dengan data testing hasil klasifikasi tingkat penggunaan QRIS sebagai alat pembayaran elektronik di Indonesia mengalami kenaikan dan hanya di bulan Desember tahun 2022 mengalami penurunan. Kemudian berdasarkan nilai perhitungan peluang pesentase menggunakan metode Markov Chain dengan n menuju tak hingga maka nilai peluang pada matriks peluang transisi konvergen ke suatu nilai. Nilai ini sama dengan nilai peluang yang dihitung dengan limitting probability dalam Markov Chain . Nilai peluang persentase tingkat penggunaan QRIS sebagai alat pembayaran elektronik di Indonesia peluang kenaikannya yaitu sebesar 0,7076 atau 70,76%, dan peluang persentase turunnya yaitu sebesar 29,24 atau 29,24%.
Relationship of pericardial effusion thickness and volume measurement by non-ECG gated computed tomography
Authors: Patharateeranart Karnkawin , Wasinrat Jitladda , Stapornchaisit Jidapa
Published: March 2024

Background: An accurate estimation of pericardial fluid volume could improve communication between radiologists and the multidisciplinary team.
Objective: To find the correlation between the volume and thickness of pericardial effusion measured by CT scan.
Materials and Methods: The chest CT scans of 38 patients with pericardial effusion were measured for volume using manual segmentation and for thickness on axial and 3-chamber planes from the anterior and posterior aspects. The correlation between volume and thickness was evaluated using Pearson’s correlation coefficient (r). The reliability of the measurements was tested using intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and Bland-Altman analysis.
Results: There was a fair to moderately strong correlation between the volume and thickness of pericardial effusion (r= 0.435-0.625, p= <0.01). An ICC of 0.452-0.703 indicated moderate inter-observer agreement. The best measurement is the sum of the anterior and posterior thicknesses on the axial plane (ICC of 0.703) that correlates well with the volume (r= 0.624). A linear regression equation demonstrating the relationship between pericardial effusion thickness and the effusion volume was computed as; Volume (mL) = 73 + 71*(the sum of anterior and posterior thicknesses on axial view in cm). The equation was applied: a value of approximately 3 cm = small, 6 cm = moderate, and 9 cm = large pericardial effusion.
Conclusion: There is a moderate correlation between the sum of the anterior and posterior pericardial thicknesses and the pericardial volume. Our preliminary formula enables a rapid estimation of the effusion volume. Further validation and refinement of the formula in a larger, prospective study is needed.
The Report from the 2023 annual meeting of thoracic radiologists in Thailand: The development and reviews of the standards, guidelines, and advice concerning diagnostic radiology of thoracic disorders in Thailand
Authors: Kaewsathorn Chayaporn , Thiravit Phakphoom , Piyavisetpat Nitra , Nitiwarangkul Chayanin , Totanarungroj Kanyarat , Tanomkiat Wiwatana
Published: March 2024

The rising issues in practice related with thoracic diagnostic imaging in both private and public sectors were presented to a panel consisting of thoracic radiologist experts from all parts of Thailand in a meeting held on 20 October 2023 by the Royal College of Radiologists of Thailand (RCRT) in collaboration with Foundation of Orphan and Rare Lung Disease (FORLD) at Asoke Conference Room on the fourth floor of Eastin Grand Hotel, Phaya Thai, Bangkok. The issues were grouped into 3 agendas: a post implementation review of the National HRCT Protocol, the safety and effectiveness of the diagnostic imaging, the standard report of HRCT in patients with fibrotic lung disease, and the recommended CT protocol for patients with thoracic malignancy in the public health universal coverage system.