bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Knowledge, Attitude and Perception about Neurodevelopmental Disorder among Pregnant Women: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Khisty Abha , Saini Seema , Choudhary Neha , Dalvi Sayali , Dave Toral , Baretto Deborah , Dere Pranjali , Palekar Tushar
Published: February 2022

Introductuion: Neurological Developmental Disorders (NDD) reflects disruptions of neuroanatomic structure or psychophysiological function and place a child at-risk for developmental, cognitive, emotional, behavioural, psychosocial and adaptive challenges. The common NDD are Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Tics disorder, Intellectual disabilities, Specific Learning Disorders (SLD), Motor disorders and communication disorders. The purpose of the study was in agreement with the literature overviewed, which suggests, the prevalence of NDD is high in children. Complications that happen during the antenatal or perinatal period, and the awareness of the same in pregnant women is significantly low. Aim: To know about the knowledge, attitude and perception of NDD among pregnant women. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at Dr DY Patil College of Physiotherapy, Pimpri, Pune from September 2020 to February 2021 on pregnant women with informed and voluntary consent. A total of 200 primigravida women were included and women with complicated pregnancy were excluded. A self-constructed questionnaire was prepared and administered. It had three domains of total 21 items- the knowledge domain with 8 questions, the attitude domain with 7 questions and the perception domain with 6 questions. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the results. Results: Total 200 women were included, mean age was 25.6±2 years. A 24% of the women had heard about the term NDD and only 13% of them knew its meaning. Attitude of pregnant women where 79.5% were aware about infections, use of drugs and alcohol and smoking during pregnancy can lead to harmful effects on the foetus. Perception of NDD, where 84% women believed that good health of the mother during pregnancy can prevent NDD, 91.5% believed that a proper diet and nutrition during pregnancy plays a role in prevention. Conclusion: The study concluded that, only 24% have ever heard of the term NDD and only 13% were aware of the meaning of it. While 79% of the pregnant women knew about the importance of antenatal care, significantly less pregnant women had knowledge about NDD and only few of them were aware about the possible signs of NDD.
Association between Intrapartum Cardiotocography and Umbilical Cord Blood pH in Term Pregnancies: A Cross-sectional Study in a Tertiary Care Centre, Kolkata, India
Authors: Sethia Roshni , Naskar Animesh , Tripathy Saikat , Das Rupkamal
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Labour, a physiological process for majority of foetuses, often acts as a challenge to foetal reserves causing foetal hypoxia. Foetal monitoring with intrapartum cardiotocography is an important tool to enable timely intervention to reduce adverse neonatal outcomes like postnatal cerebral palsy. Aim: To determine an association between cardiotocography tracing and umbilical artery cord blood pH in term pregnancies in labour where the influence of drugs and the presence of other comorbid medical/obstetric adverse outcomes have been ruled out. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional, hospital-based, observational study involved singleton uncomplicated term pregnancies with a normal baseline cardiotocography and spontaneous labour onset and progression admitted to the labour ward of R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital, Kolkata, West Bengal, India. Intrapartum continuous cardiotocography traces were recorded and those showing abnormal traces were documented and delivery expedited within two hours. Total of 90 such consecutive women were included in the study and umbilical arterial cord blood sample was taken for all these pregnancies immediate postpartum. Cardiotocography traces were then statistically compared with cord blood parameters and the findings were computed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 22.0. Results: Out of 90 participants the mean age was 24.21±3.43 years, most (43, 47.8%) of them were in between 21 to 25 years. Of the abnormal traces, 51 (56.7%) were NICE Category II (Suspicious) and 39 (43.3%) were NICE category III (pathological). Cord blood analysis revealed that 40% had a pH<7, 44.4% had blood lactate levels above 6 mmol/L and another 47.7% had a base deficit ≥12 mmol/L. On crosstabulation and Chi-square analysis, these were all found to be statistically significant (p-value <0.05). Abnormalities of Foetal Heart Rate (FHR) and baseline variability had higher Odds ratio of predicting umbilical artery acidemia with Odd’s ratio for baseline variability abnormality as high as 2.768. Conclusion: Although there has been a rising trend towards operative deliveries, the overall incidence of neonatal morbidity due to cerebral palsy is still on the rise. Cardiotocography can be a very important tool to identify neonatal acidosis in “at risk” foetuses and helps in timely intervention giving long term best outcomes.
Assessment of Impact of Vitiligo and its Distribution on Psychosocial Life: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Pahwa Aarzoo , Suganita . , Rathore Praveen Kumar
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Vitiligo is a common depigmenting disorder of skin/mucosa. Its aetiology is multifactorial. Clinically, it presents as milky white macules as a result of loss of melanocytes from skin, hair or both. It does not cause any physical hindrance but can cause cosmetic deformity, which has a serious effect on patient’s quality of life. Aim: To evaluate and compare the psychosocial impact on vitiligo patient having lesions on exposed and unexposed site using Vitiligo Impact Scale (VIS)-22. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 70 vitiligo patients attending the Outpatient Department of Rohilkhand Medical college and Hospital, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, India, over a period of six months between October 2020 to March 2021. Patients were categorised into two groups- exposed and non exposed group. VIS-22 scores were calculated and effect on quality of life in vitiligo patients was calculated. Demographic data and clinical characteristics were also documented. Appropriate statistical software, including Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23.0 was used for statistical analysis and Chi-square test was applied. Results: A total of 70 patients (24 males and 46 females) were enrolled in this study who were similar in demographic profile. A mean VIS score in exposed group was 31.51 and in non exposed group was 21.45 which indicated large effect and moderate effect on their psychosocial life respectively. Mean score of each question was calculated, with highest mean score of 2.68, showing that patients were worried regarding the progression of disease. Most patients felt that others donot think that the disease spreads by touch and this was indicated by receiving the mean score of 0.75. Conclusion: In this study, it was seen that patients having lesions on exposed sites had a greater impact on quality of life, interpersonal relationships and patients felt more depressed as compared to those on non exposed sites.
Knowledge, Awareness and Practices of the use of Digital Technology in Dentistry among Postgraduate Students and Dental Practitioners in India: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Nayakar Ramesh , Sardesai Poonam , Killedar Sayed , Patil Anandkumar , Kakodker Mangesh
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Currently, digital dentistry is an umbrella topic that predominantly includes the areas of intraoral scanning, 3D printing and Computer Aided Designing/Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAD/CAM). It allows the transfer of information between physical and digital data, with the significant advantage of easing the transition process and increasing efficiency. Digital technology is a crucial component of modern dentistry which has a significant influence on our present and future dental practice. Aim: To assess the knowledge, awareness and practices of the use of digital technology and its implications in dentistry among dental postgraduate students and dental practitioners. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire based online survey was undertaken at KLE VK Institute of Dental Sciences, Belagavi, Karnataka, India between April 2021 and July 2021 amongst dental practitioners and dental postgraduate students of different regions across India. The questionnaire consisted of 21 questions which evaluated their awareness towards digital dentistry, its advantages and shortcomings, their knowledge and practices towards digital dentistry. Statistical analysis was done using Chi-square test in each group, using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0. The p-value <0.05 was considered significant. Results: Of total 270, 261 respondents (96.67%) were aware of CAD/CAM technology in dentistry. A total of 237 respondents (87.78%) felt that the lack of knowledge was one of the shortcomings of CAD/CAM with a p-value=0.039 rather than its high cost (184 respondents 68.15%, p-value=0.009) and there was a need to increase the knowledge and understanding regarding the same. A total of 252 respondents (93.33%) were of the opinion that digital technology is the future of dentistry and it will have a positive impact on our profession and 83.59 % respondents felt that digital technology would have a role to play in the current COVID-19 scenario. The teaching faculty (92.86%), showed better understanding about the digital technology compared to private practitioners (66.22%) and postgraduate students (62.59%). Conclusion: In the given set of participants, most of the participants were aware about digital technology which shows a satisfactory outcome. The teaching faculty showed better understanding about the digital technology compared to private practitioners and postgraduate students. However, to make them acquainted with CAD/CAM, dental education programmes and workshops should be conducted which will create a future generation of dentists who will be well versed with digital dentistry. With so much room to grow, it will help dentists to work as one and deliver the absolute best care to their patients and create a better tomorrow.
Clinico-immunological Study of HIV Infected Children Attending ART CenterA Prospective Longitudinal Study
Authors: Soni Kailash Chandra , Verma Preeti , Arya Priyanka , Tiwari Bhavana , Midha Tanu , Chaudhary Sachin
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection is a growing concern in paediatric population and large number of children are registered and treated at Antiretroviral Treatment (ART) centres across the country. Children with HIV progress more rapidly, develop more bacterial infections, suffer from neurologic developmental problems and have higher mortality than adults. So the screening and counselling of HIV positive parents and their children must be done timely. This helps the physician for starting the treatment timely. Aim: To determine the clinico-immunological profile of paediatric patients registered in ART, and to compare the immunological profile and clinical staging of paediatric patients receiving ART. Materials and Methods: This prospective longitudinal study was conducted in the ART centre of Sarojini Naidu Medical College, Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India, from October 2017 to October 2018. Total 51 children, upto the age group of 18 years, suffering from HIV/Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) were enrolled in the study. Diagnosis of HIV was confirmed using EnzymeLinked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) method (using two different antigens Comb HIV test, TRI-DOT) in children more than 18 months of age. In children less than 18 months age, diagnosis was confirmed using Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) (repeated twice with cessation of breast feeding for minimum of six weeks). Statistical analysis was done by using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) trial version 23.0 and simple frequency and Chi-square test was used for analysis. Results: Majority of the children (20, 39.26%) were in the age group of 5-10 years, and male: female ratio was 2.4:1. Most common presenting complaint was cough (52.94%), followed by fever (47.05%), chronic diarrhea (37.25%). Most common clinical signs seen were hepatosplenomegaly (41.17%), pneumonia (33.33%) and lymphadenopathy (31.37%). Initially the mean CD4 count was 370.31±231.5 cell/mm3 , and after starting ART mean CD4 count was 524.6±260.4 cell/mm3 . Significant improvement in CD4 count was observed in age group of 5-10 years (p-value=0.009), and 10-15 years (p-value=0.001) after six months of starting the ART. In the beginning, maximum (56.7%) children belonged to World Health Organization (WHO) clinical staging III and after starting ART maximum 40% belonged to stage II. Conclusion: ART improves symptomatology and immunological status HIV infected children, so there is need to screen the children of HIV affected parents and identify the children suffering with HIV in order to initiate ART at the earliest indication in order to improve their general health, freedom from illness and better immunological status.
Feasibility Analysis of Seaweed, Gracilaria sp., Cultivation in Polyculture System In Ponds: A Case Study From Domas Village, Pontang Serang Banten, Indonesia
Authors: Naufal Ismah , Nurhayati Atikah , Rizal Achmad , Maulina Ine , Handaka Suryana Asep Agus
Published: February 2022

This research aims to analyze business feasibility of cultivation of seaweed, Gracilaria sp., and factors that affect farmers' income in Domas Village, Pontang District, Serang Banten Regency. This research was conducted from April 2021 to June 2021 in Domas Village, Pontang Subdistrict, Serang Regency, Banten and was conducted by survey method. Location determination was done by the census sampling method. Sampling was conducted for 35 seaweed farmers in Domas Village. The data analysis used was a business feasibility analysis that includes income analysis, R/C ratio, Payback period, Break event point, sensitivity analysis, and multiple linear regression analysis. The result of the business feasibility analysis obtained was the profit value of Gracilaria sp., cultivation in Domas Village, which was 115,168,232 / year, R / C of 1.32% means that the business was worth running, the payback period value was 1.51 years since the company was established. The product's BEP (kg) value in this study was 1,320 kg. Meaning that the break-even point will be reached if the cultivation produces Gracilaria sp. So that the business can be developed. As for the sensitivity, the value increases acceptable operating costs by 5%. In addition, the calculation of sensitivity to the decline in selling value is known to be a very sensitive variable because it’s 3% decrease will lower the of R / C value to less than 1. This indicates that variable selling prices are more sensitive to investment value than operating costs. Factors that affect the income of cultivators in Domas Village of Pontang Subdistrict are Modal (X1), Total Production (X2), Gracilaria sp. (X5), and Bandeng Fish Seedlings (X6) with a coefficient of determination of 91.8%.
Medicinal Plants Used for Management of Asthma in FCT, Abuja and Its Environs
Authors: Adigwe Obi Peter , Ibrahim Jemilat Aliyu , Gegele Ibrahim Babatunde , Adzu Bulus , Yetunde Isimi Christiana
Published: February 2022

Aim: Asthma is a condition that affects the airways in human lungs. It causes its (lungs) inflammation and hyper-responsiveness. Conventional therapies used in its management are expensive and have been found to come with undesirable side effects. The use of herbal remedies in treating the disease is widespread especially in local communities with little or no access to primary health care. This indigenous knowledge on the cure of asthma is gradually being lost among the populace. This study is aimed at documenting local remedies used in the management of asthma.

Methodology: Ethnobotanical survey was carried out in Federal Capital Territory (FCT)- Abuja and surrounding communities, among Traditional Medicine Practitioners (TMPs), Herb’s sellers and elderly in the community using semi-structured questionnaire and interview methods. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and ethnobotany index.

Results: 80 respondents were interviewed, 58 of them laid claims to knowledge about medicinal plants used in asthma management. Majority of the respondents are Traditional  Medicine Practitioners (48%). 59 plants species belonging to 38 plant families was documented with most belonging to the Moraceae plant family (10%). The recipes mentioned were mostly prepared as decoctions which are taken orally with a case of two being by smoking and inhalation.   

Conclusion: This study has shown that the Federal Capital Territory and settlements within its environ are blessed with medicinal plants used in the management of asthma which serve as a cheap and alternative source of remedy for the local populace and as well, being a repository for scientific inquest that may lead to yet another drug discovery from plant origin used in the management of asthma.
Fungal Biofilms in Drinking Water Storage Containers: Flipping through their Health Risks. A Case-Study of Households at Diobu, Port Harcourt, Nigeria
Authors: Amadi-Ikpa C. N. , Williams J. O. , Aaron U. U.
Published: February 2022

The formation of fungal biofilm in drinking water storage containers has not been giving considerable attention over the years despite the challenges posed by bacterial biofilms. Hence, the study aimed to determine the fungal occurrence and the associated biofilm formation capacity from domestic drinking water storage containers in Diobu homes of Port Harcourt. Fifty water samples were obtained from domestic storage containers in different house units, and the sample was subjected to the standard microbiological procedure. The spread and streak techniques were applied on antibiotics treated Saboraud Dextrose and Congo red growth media. The results shows that the mean fungi count of 6.2 x 102 and 6.1 x 102 CFU/ml in household sizes of 4 and 5 persons respectively were less than that of the household population of 2, 6, and 8 persons with the fungal count of 8.7x102, 8.3x102 and 8.0x102CFU/ml respectively. Positive, negative and zero relationships were established between the household sizes and the fungal recovered. The analysis further revealed a total of 25 fungal isolates of which three genera were distinguished morphologically, namely, Aspergillus flavus, Candida albicans and Penicillium notatum. All isolates were able to form a heavy mass of biofilm; except Candida albicans which had a delayed formation after 24hours with less biofilm development potential, and thus signifies its inability to persist, despite having the highest count or load. The success of fungi biofilm is based on the constant growth rate of Aspergillus flavus and Penicillium notatum biofilms for which, the household size has reasonably be attributed. The study recommends that storage facilities in the homes be regularly cleaned and always disinfected to inhibit the successes of fungal biofilm.
Nanotechnology in Periodontics- Review Article
Authors: Agarwal Palak , Durge Khushboo , Bajaj Pavan , Kale Bhairavi , Bharate Rudra
Published: February 2022

The field of nanotechnology is concerned with the study of small objects. This is done through the development of stuff, gadget, as well as organization those display different properties of materials which differ from those found on a larger scale. Use of nanotechnology in the procedures of periodontal treatment has made it possible to allow the treatment with less invasive techniques and reaching the same target. Nanodental care has a lot of promise in terms of developing technologically sophisticated clinical instruments and equipment for oral health care. Robots are said to be capable of inducing oral analgesia, desensitizing teeth, manipulating tissue to realign and straighten crooked teeth, as well as improving tooth durability. The aim of the article is to examine the concept of nanotechnology and how it may be used in dentistry in the form of nanodentistry, a new discipline of dentistry.
Antimicrobial Activity of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Synthesized Using Leaves Extract of Abies webbiana
Authors: Nivethitha R. , Jeevitha M. , Rajeshkumar S. , Jayaraman Selvaraj
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Green synthesis of nanoparticles using plant extract, bacteria, fungi and enzymes are eco-friendly and cost effective which do need high pressure, energy, temperature and toxic chemicals for its synthesis protocol. Zinc oxide nanoparticles have various physical, chemical and biological properties which can be applied in the treatment of oral diseases.

Aim: The main objective of the current study was to synthesize the zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) in a cost effective biological method. The extract of A. webbiana was used to synthesis Zinc oxide nanoparticles.

Materials and Methods: In this report, we used the extract of A. webbiana to synthesize zinc oxide nanoparticles and were characterized using U-V visible spectrophotometer and were tested for their antimicrobial activity against oral pathogens.

Results: These biosynthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles exhibited potent antimicrobial activity against oral pathogens, Streptococcus mutans, Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis, Candida albicans and can be developed as a novel medicine against pathogenic oral diseases. Abies webbiana extract mediated zinc oxide nanoparticles showed effective antimicrobial activity comparable to others.

Conclusion: With increasing demand in advancements in diagnosis and treatment modalities, green synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles using A. webbiana which was found to have potent antimicrobial action has wider applications in dentistry. This formulation needs to be further purified to isolate the component in the extract that makes it effective to be used in large scale production for targeted drug delivery against a wide array of oral microbial infections.
Role of Gastrografin in Adhesive Intestinal Obstruction
Authors: Kumar Sandesh , Naz Samina , Mangi Munawar Hussain , Bhurgri Karim Bux , Talpur Altaf Ahmed , Shaikh Ubedullah
Published: February 2022

Objective: To determine the role of gastrografin in adhesive intestinal obstruction.

Study Design: This is an observational study.

Setting: Study carried out at General Surgery Department, Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences Jamshoro and Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Medical College, Lyari Karachi, from January 2020 to July 2021.

Material & Method: Patients having clinical and radiological signs evidence of adhesive bowel obstruction over the age of 18 years were selected for the study. One hundred milliliters of gastrografin were given via nasogastric tube and its transit was followed by serial abdominal radiographs and fluoroscopy.

Results: In the time of 1 and half years, we received 53 patients with adhesive intestinal obstruction. It included 54.7% (n= 29) males and 45.2% (n=24) females with a mean age of 61 years. Out of 53 patients, 46 patients had a single previous abdominal surgery. After complete examination and investigations emergency laparotomy was performed in 15% (n=8) patients. Hence, out of total 53 patients, 27 patients fit into our criteria for gastrografin meal and follow through. Fluoroscopy revealed a partial obstruction in 19 patients and complete obstruction in 8 patients. After gastrografin follow through obstruction was relieved in 17 patients within the meantime of 63 hours (range 20-78h).

Conclusion: In our study, gastrografin is found to be of great diagnostic and therapeutic value, with fewer adverse effects. It also reduces the need for surgery, hence decreasing the financial burden of operative treatment. In Pakistan, its use is still limited because of a lack of equipment, expertise, and radiological imaging facilit.
Impact of Ingudi (Balanites aegyptiaca Linn. Delile) Seed oil on Prameha Pidika (Diabetic Carbuncle): A Case Study
Authors: Kumar Sanjeev , Bhartiya Satyanam Kumar , Dwivedi Kamal Nayan
Published: February 2022

Background: We gone a thorough the literature the use of medicinal plants and plant-based products for topical ulcers and discovered the natural products and its derivatives account for more than half of all medications taken globally today.

Case Presentation: A fifty-eight-year-old gentleman of middle socioeconomic status developed a carbuncle on right side of the nape of the neck with firm edge and a necrotic fowl smelling slough on the floor. Despite his attempts to treat the carbuncle at home and nearby allopathic physicians "it continued to enlarge and fester" (became inflamed and suppurated). The patient was visited the Trauma Surgery Out Patient Department (OPD), Banaras Hindu University (BHU) Trauma center & Super specialty Hospital, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India, and, following surgical incision and drainage. ET nurse consultation for regular dressing but wound did not show the progressive healing, patient was referred to the Ayurvedic OPD wing of Banaras Hindu University for Ayurvedic management. Sushruta used Ingudi oil for the management of vitiated/chronic wounds. This case study aims to anticipate the clinical efficacy of Ingudi seed oil in the treatment of chronic diabetic wounds without causing any side effect, which is a complex type of Diabetic carbuncle (Prameha pidika).

Conclusion: Ingudi seed oil has prompt healing properties against diabetic wounds. Ingudi seed oil is natural, safe, and cost-effective material used in chronic diabetic wounds (Prameha pidika).
A Case Report of USG Guided Spinal Anaesthesia in a Patient with Kyphoscoliosis
Authors: Madavi Sheetal , Sneha Kota , Verma Neeta , Akhijom Nikhil , Jadhav Jui
Published: February 2022

Patients with spine abnormalities like kyphoscoliosis are very much challenging for the spinal anaesthesia. We report an interesting and challenging case of thoracolumbar kyphoscoliosis patient posted for supra pubic catheterization. We planned to do USG guided spinal anaesthesia. Lumbar vertebra and intervertebral spaces of the patient were scanned with help of ultrasound.  For spinal access L2-L3 interveretebral space through which dura can be observed is selected. Patient had good spinal effect and procedure is uneventful. This case demonstrates that spinal anesthesia performed under the guidance of ultrasonography will be successful in case of severe kyphoscoliosis.
A Comprehensive Review of Quantifications, Profiling, and Regulations of Pharmaceutical Impurities
Authors: Dahiya Dev Prakash , Saini Geetanjali , Chaudhary Amit , Singh Bhupendra , Sharma Pooja , Thakur Vandana , Thakur Nisha , Vyas Manish
Published: February 2022

In the past few decades impurity profiling has continuously gained the attention of regulatory bodies due to the rise in the number of drugs frequently entering the market. International regulatory agencies like ICH, FDA, Canadian Drug and Health Agency emphasize carrying out impurity profiling of drugs in strict compliance with the regulatory guidelines that have been laid down intending to ensure production of high quality and safe pharmaceutical drugs to serve mankind. Simple impurities can be easily evaluated by conventionally available methods whereas impurities present within complex matrix structure pose significant challenges to the analyst and require a more sophisticated approach. The work has been carried out with great efforts to make the study possible distinctively and comprehensively.
1,3,4-Thiadiazole Derivatives as an Antimicrobial: An Update
Authors: Sawarkar Harigopal S. , Singh Mahavir , Shrivastav Birendra , Bakal R. L.
Published: February 2022

Persistent and uncontrolled use of antibiotics results in development of bacterial resistant. The situation is getting worsen day by day and scientists are investigating thousands of potentially active drugs like molecule in laboratories around the world every day in search of effective antibiotics. During last decade considerable attention was given to five-member heterocyclic moieties while designing new antimicrobial agents. One of important heterocycle is five-membered 1,3,4-thiadiazole with unique bioisosteric properties displaying unusually wide spectrum of biological activities. This comprehensive review represent the recent 1,3,4-thiadiazole and its derivatives, which can be considered as potential antimicrobial agents in the period of 2015 and onwards. This review may help the medicinal chemists to develop new leads possessing 1,3,4-thiadiazole nucleus with higher efficacy and reduced side effects.
A Scoping Review of the Genotypic Diversity of Streprococcus mutans
Authors: Supraja K. Kunguma , Poorni Saravanan , Nivedhitha . , Srinivasan Manali Ramakrishnan , Jeevitha M. , Jeyaraman Selvaraj
Published: February 2022

Aim: This paper reviews the literature on the pathogenic genotypes of S. mutans that may be more virulent colonizers and the phenotypic variability of its main virulence factors.

Methods: A thorough literature search on S. mutans was performed and the relevant datas supporting its association to dental caries were extracted.

Results: Dental caries is a microbial disease caused by frequent intake of dietary sugars. Fermentation of sugars by biofilm microbiota produces acids that disrupt microbial homeostasis and cause dissolution of tooth minerals. Identifying S. mutans as the most important cariogenic microorganism has led to the design of target specific preventive measures that intend to reduce its presence in oral cavity.

Conclusion: Due to environmental changes and selective pressure in the oral cavity, Streptococcus mutans endure extensive genotypic diversity thereby exhibiting new physiological and metabolic properties. However, the role of the variants are poorly understood.
Risk Factors of Heart Failure among the Patients Suffering from Hypertension Attending a Hospital in Islamabad, Pakistan
Authors: Bandeshah Akhtar Ali , Ali Imran , Anwar Aftab , Khan Fahad Amir , Makhdoom Usama , Javed Muhammad
Published: February 2022

Objective: To determine the risk factors of heart failure (HF) in the hypertensive cases attending the cardiology unit of tertiary care Hospital.

Methods: This Case-Control study was conducted from April 2020 to May 2021 at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, Islamabad. One hundred (100) patients of sex - and age -matched pairs were included in the study. Adults clinically diagnosed as cases of Hypertensive heart failure (HF) and individuals having systemic hypertension but no HF (controls) were included in the study. Cardiovascular risk factors were assessed by the questioner. Assessment of the study variables was done and the data analysis was carried out using SPSS version 26.

Results: A total of one hundred (100) cases and 100 cases as controls were studied. The average age of the study subjects (cases) was 38.4±9.28 years and 38.35±9.04 years of controls. Males were in majority in both groups. Obesity, renal impairment and hypertension in the first degree relative were higher in the hypertensive heart failure in contrast to controls. Average proteinuria and serum creatinine level were higher among study subjects compared to controls (p-<0.05). Medication adherences were considerably higher among the subjects in the control group than in the subjects of case group. Hypertension control group members were more inclined to eat vegetables and fruits on a daily basis, whereas no significant difference was found in the consumption of the salt between the cases and controls. History of anti-hypertensive drugs intake, lower intake of vegetables and fruits, and medication adherence represented the highest levels amongst the risk factors.

Conclusion: In the conclusion of current study, the particular lifestyle, poor dietary habits, medication adherence, and lack of exercise were observed to be the commonest risk factors of heart failure. Awareness programs should be expanded in general and specialty health care settings.
Short Note on Tecovirimat
Authors: Padmaja S. , Sushil C.
Published: February 2022

Smallpox, an infectious disease, caused by one of the two virus variants, Variola major and Variola minor. Smallpox is a highly contagious and fatal disease. The last case which occurred naturally was in October 1977. The disease was eradicated globally by the World Health Organisation in the year 1980. Since there is a longstanding concern that smallpox can be used as a bioweapon, US FDA has approved the drug, Tecovirimat (TPOXX) for its treatment.
Effect of Fenugreek on Lactation among Postnatal Women’s of Selected Hospital at Vadodara
Authors: Rathwa R. Chhayankben , Kumary T. Vinaya
Published: February 2022

Background of the Study: Breast feeding is the pleasant vitamins for infants. Most of the postnatal moms face the trouble of inadequate breast milk which influences the wellness of an infant. Hence the researcher had taken up this study, used fenugreek among the postnatal mother who has insufficient breast milk secretionas an effective way to boost the production of breast milk.

Methods: A quantitative research approach with experimental pre-test post-test control group design was used to assess effect of fenugreek on lactation among postnatal woman. The study was conducted among 60 postnatal mothers in a selected hospital, Vadodara.

Results: The present study revealed that in experimental group in pre-test, majority 25(83.3%) had insufficient lactation and only 5(16.7%) had sufficient lactation while in post-test 20(66.7%) had sufficient lactation and 10(33.3%) had insufficient lactation. The impact of fenugreek on lactation amongst experimental group turned into examined through the usage of paired t test with obtained t value (t=8.348, df=29, p=0.001) turned into statistically highly significant at p<0.05 level of significance. The post-test lactation revealed that in control group mean score was 22.97±3.755 and in experimental group mean score was 30.03±5.334 with mean difference of 7.06 with obtained t value (t=5.934, df=58, p=0.001) was statistically significant at p<0.05 level. The association between pre interventions lactation of postnatal woman of experimental and control group with selected demographic variables such as age, educational status, occupational status, religion, residency, type of family and food habits were found statistically not significant at p<0.05 level with pre interventions lactation of postnatal woman of experimental and control group. 

Conclusion: The overall effect of fenugreek on lactation among experimental group was tested by using paired t test with obtained t value (t=8.348, df=29, p=0.001) was statistically highly significant at p<0.05 level of significance. Study findings revealed that fenugreek was effective in promoting lactation of postnatal mothers in experimental group as compared to control group.
Morphological and Morphometric Analysis of Gonial Angle with Reference to Lingula in South Indian Mandibles
Authors: Venkatakarthikeswari G. V. , Mohanraj Karthik Ganesh
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Gonial angle is located at the junction of lower border and posterior region of mandible. Lingula is a bony projection which provides attachment for sphenomandibular ligament and is superior to mandibular foramen. The purpose of this study was to research the gonial angle in reference to the position of the lingula helps to guide the oral surgeons to stop injury to inferior alveolar nerve and peripheral blood vessels during surgeries.

Materials and Methods: The distance from the gonial angle to the tip of the lingula and the gonial angle to the base of the lingula on both right and left sides of the mandible was measured using a protractor. The values are calculated from gonial angle with reference to lingula on both sides. The obtained values of both sides were correlated using descriptive statistical analysis and by applying paired t-test. p<0.05 was considered statistically significant for this study.

Results: The mean value for right gonial angle to base of  lingula is 26.54 mm ± 3.30 mm and the left gonial angle to base of lingula is 25.59 ± 0.56 mm. The right gonial angle to lingula tip is 33.25 ± 2.65 and the left gonial angle to lingula tip is 32.83 ± 1.36mm. The mean gonial angle on the right side is 88.60° and on the left side it is 89.40°.

Conclusion: It was found that there was no correlation between the right and left side gonial angle to mandibular lingula since the mandibular angle, was measured within the group of unknown sex of dry human mandible.
Interphase Formed at Li6.4La3Zr1.4Ta0.6O12/Li Interface Enables Cycle Stability for Solid‐State Batteries
Authors: Gao Zhonghui , Bai Yang , Fu Haoyu , Yang Jiayi , Ferber Thimo , Feng Junrun , Jaegermann Wolfram , Huang Yunhui
Published: February 2022

Garnet‐type Li6.4La3Zr1.4Ta0.6O12 (LLZTaO) is considered a promising solid‐state electrolyte (SSE) for all‐solid‐state batteries (SSBs), but LLZTaO/Li interfacial issues limit their power density. The key question of whether LLZTaO does or does not form an interphase layer before and at the initial stage of electrochemical cycling remains debatable. An XPS interface approach, electrochemical cycling, and an electrochemically coupled phase field model to study the dynamic changes of interfacial resistance during cycling are utilized, and it is found that the generation rate of the interphase via electrochemical reaction processes at the LLZTaO/Li interface depends on the applied current density. For a Li/LLZTaO/Li cell, the impedance and overpotential increase gradually at the initial stage of electrochemical cycling at a current density of 0.1 mA cm–2 due to the formation of a passivating reaction zone (interphase) at LLZTaO/Li interface, which can protect the LLZTaO from being continuously reacted. With increasing the current density to 0.5 mA cm–2, the electrochemical reaction is suppressed and tied to uneven Li ion transport across the LLZTaO/Li interface on plating, leading to a short circuit of the cell. Understanding how interface dynamic transformations influence electrochemical degradation is helpful to stabilize these interfaces in SSBs.
Single Copolymer Chain‐Templated Synthesis of Ultrasmall Symmetric and Asymmetric Silica‐Based Nanoparticles
Authors: Zhang Yan , Yi Chenglin , Dong Wenhao , Zheng Di , Yang Yiqun , Li Wei , Duan Xiaozheng , Yang Dong , Nie Zhihong
Published: February 2022

Ultrasmall silica‐based nanoparticles (SNPs) are attractive for application in many fields, but existing synthetic approaches show limited control over the size and morphology of these SNPs. This study describes a general single copolymer chain‐mediated strategy for the scalable synthesis of highly monodispersed symmetric and asymmetric SNPs with sub‐50 nm diameter. Random copolymers of poly(acrylic acid‐r‐styrene) intramolecularly collapse into ultrasmall single‐chain nanoparticles and serve as seeds to template the hydrolysis of silica precursors to produce uniform SNPs. It is shown in experiments and simulations that the composition and random architecture of the copolymers are crucial to the formation of ultrasmall seeds and the uniform deposition of silica. Furthermore, tailoring the architecture of copolymers can be used to produce ultrasmall asymmetric Janus‐like and dumbbell‐like SNPs with well‐defined polymer and silica domains. This study paves a new route to the scalable production of ultrasmall SNPs with tailored morphologies.
A High‐Efficiency Mo2C Electrocatalyst Promoting the Polysulfide Redox Kinetics for Na–S Batteries
Authors: Zhou Xuefeng , Yu Zuxi , Yao Yu , Jiang Yu , Rui Xianhong , Liu Jiaqin , Yu Yan
Published: February 2022

Room‐temperature sodium–sulfur (RT Na–S) batteries, as promising next‐generation energy storage candidates, are drawing more and more attention due to the high energy density and abundant elements reserved in the earth. However, the native downsides of RT Na‐S batteries (i.e., enormous volume changes, the polysulfide shuttle, and the insulation and low reactivity of S) impede their further application. To conquer these challenges, hierarchical porous hollow carbon polyhedrons embedded with uniform Mo2C nanoparticles are designed deliberately as the host for S. The micro‐ and mesoporous hollow carbon indeed dramatically enhances the reactivity of the S cathodes and accommodates the volume changes. Meanwhile, the highly conductive dispersed Mo2C has a strong chemical adsorption to polysulfides and catalyzes the transformation of polysulfides, which can effectively inhibit the dissolution of polysulfides and accelerate the reaction kinetics. Thus, the as‐prepared S cathode can display a high reversible capacity (1098 mAh g−1 at 0.2 A g−1 after 120 cycles) and superior rate performance (483 mAh g−1 at 10.0 A g−1). This work provides a new method to boost the performance of RT Na–S batteries.
Interfacial Engineering Approach to Pattern Resilient Polymer Photonic Crystals with Temperature‐Responsive Optical Properties
Authors: Robertson Mark , Obando Alejandro Guillen , Qiang Zhe
Published: February 2022

Planar, 1D photonic crystals (1D‐PCs) are stacks of alternating layers with different refractive indices, which can reflect specific wavelengths of light through the formation of a photonic bandgap. Typical systems for 1D‐PC fabrication possess relatively limited thermal and/or chemical stabilities and may require several steps for producing patterned features. Additionally, enabling stimuli‐responsive behaviors in 1D‐PCs are often achieved through relatively complex chemistries that might be difficult to scale‐up due to associated cost and energy consumption, presenting challenges toward their implementation in practical systems. Herein, through sequential depositions of phenolic resin (resol) and poly(vinylidene fluoride‐co‐hexafluoropropylene) (PVDF‐HFP), two low‐cost chemical reagents which are broadly used in industry, bright 1D‐PCs are prepared with high thermal and chemical stability at long exposure times. Furthermore, spatial differences in the reflectance behavior of the 1D‐PCs and thus resulted patterns are demonstrated through a simple, generalizable interfacial engineering approach that controls the surface wettability of PVDF‐HFP layer. Stimuli‐responsive behavior is imparted into the 1D‐PC system by leveraging the semicrystalline nature of PVDF‐HFP to provide on‐demand switchable light‐reflecting behaviors upon exposure to elevated temperatures. Overall, this work demonstrates a simple and efficient technique to develop 1D‐PCs with excellent stability, ease of patterning, and thermoresponsive reflectance from low‐cost precursors, potentially enabling their broader use in a wide array of nanotechnological applications.
Light‐operated On‐chip Autonomous Vision Using Low‐dimensional Material Systems
Authors: Walia Sumeet
Published: February 2022

Human‐brain inspired machine vision can revolutionise new technologies across sectors. Monolithic devices that are able to achieve image capture, processing, and storage with ultra‐low energy requirements can result in smart automation and enhance industrial output (both quality and quantity). This requires tapping into emerging novelties in materials physics, optical materials, and neuromorphic hardware. In this perspective, the author discusses the role of electrophotoactive low‐dimensional materials and how their unique intrinsic properties can be harnessed for futuristic machine vision systems in a major way. The author comments on some of the latest developments in 2D, 1D, and 0D material systems that have enabled smart devices and low‐energy neuromorphics. The perspective further critically assesses the challenges that the research community still needs to overcome and potential promising pathways to create miniaturized, highly efficient machine vision technologies that can transform healthcare, transport, and advanced manufacturing.
Simple Phenazine‐Based Compounds Realizing Superior Multicolored Emission
Authors: Xie Mingchen , Cai Jiaheng , Wang Xueqi , Shan Tong , Jung Sinyeong , Zhong Hongliang , Guo Xiaojun , Zhou Dongying , Li Tao
Published: February 2022

A new family of phenazine‐based compounds is synthesized to achieve multicolored emission from deep blue (418 nm) to red (625 nm). Emitters have unique hybrid local and charge‐transfer excited states for S1, T1, T2, and even higher‐layer excited states, respectively, while all emitters possess thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) nature. The rigid structure of phenazine and steric hindrance of donors are sufficiently utilized to suppress the nonradiative consumption, manipulate the configurations of excited states, and regulate the luminescence color. Organic light‐emitting diodes exhibit superior multicolored emission with 10.74% external quantum efficiency. Employing such kind of simple‐structured and easily synthesized compounds to realize multicolored emission would provide a new strategy for designing high‐performance and multicolored TADF materials.
Full‐Color Metaoptical Imaging in Visible Light
Authors: Huang Luocheng , Colburn Shane , Zhan Alan , Majumdar Arka
Published: February 2022

Metaoptics is a fast‐growing field with the potential to dramatically miniaturize image sensors. Unlike many other scientific endeavors, metaoptics are poised to make a technological and commercial impact within a few decades of inception. In particular, metaoptics is touted for next‐generation, multifunctional optical elements, with the potential to largely replace refractive optics. The performance of metaoptics for full‐color imaging, however, remains poor due to strong chromatic aberrations. Arguably, color cameras are the most prevalent in lives, and the poor performance of metaoptics in this application significantly limits their commercial opportunities. Herein, the current landscape of full‐color imaging in the visible wavelength range using metaoptics is reviewed. Imaging approaches using a single metaoptic are focused on, where the size and the weight can be reduced by the largest amount. Future research directions to this effect are outlined.
Universal Transparent Artificial Neural Network‐Based Fault Section Diagnosis Models for Power Systems
Authors: Xie Xuan , Xiong Guojiang , Chen Jun , Zhang Jing
Published: February 2022

Fault section diagnosis (FSD) is significant for the power system dispatching. Artificial neural network (ANN)‐based FSD method has strong fault tolerance but it looks like a black box and lacks the interpretability to the diagnosis outputs. In addition, when the topology of power systems changes, the ANN structure needs to be reconstructed and retrained, and thus has low adaptive capability. In order to tackle these challenges, in this paper, an ANN‐based FSD method by constructing universal transparent diagnosis models is proposed. The diagnosis models are constructed for the transmission line, transformer, and bus types rather than for a specific power system section. They can express the logical relations among sections, protective relays (PRs) and circuit breakers (CBs) clearly and intuitively. In addition, fuzzy values are used to model the uncertainties of PRs and CBs, and to determine the inputs of diagnosis models. Furthermore, the differential evolution algorithm is employed to optimize the network parameters of diagnosis models. The proposed method is verified on the IEEE 30‐bus test system and an actual local power system in Jilin Province of China.