bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study of Substrate Temperatures Effects on the Properties of Ultrasonically Sprayed SnS2 Thin Films
Authors: Hadef Zakaria , Kamli Kenza , Zaidi Beddiaf , Boulkhessaim Salim , Chouial Baghdadi
Published: March 2023

Tin disulfide (SnS2) thin films have drawn worldwide attention because of their outstanding performance and earth-abundant constituents. However, problems such as coexistence of complex secondary phases (SnS, Sn2S3), the band tailing issue, and bulk defects need to be addressed for further efficiency improvement. In this regard, the present work is intended for the treatment of one of these problems. Herein, a single phase SnS2 has been obtained using an ultrasonic spray pyrolysis method. which is confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and energy dispersive X-rays (EDXs) characterization techniques. The substrate temperatures (Ts) were increased from 250 °C to 450 °C, and this significantly improved the film's characteristics, which varied from an amorphous phase and a mixture of crystalline phases, SnS2 and SnS (for the films obtained at Ts = 250 and 300 °C) to a SnS2 pure phase with a hexagonal structure (for Ts ≥ 350 °C). The morphological, optical, and electrical properties of SnS2 films are greatly improved by temperature increases too, especially for the film obtained at 450 °C. This suggests that there are opportunities for further efficiency by using the as-deposited SnS2 thin film at 450 °C.
Extraction Technology for Manganese Sulfate Solution Purification
Authors: Li Chen Zhe , Xie Hong Yan , Jin Hui Xin
Published: March 2023

Manganese sulfate is an important base manganese salt; nearly 80% of the world's manganese products are produced using manganese sulfate or manganese sulfate solution. Furthermore, manganese sulfate has many applications in industry and agriculture; thus, manganese sulfate solution impurity removal technology is important. This study aims to remove impurities from manganese sulfate solution-using complex low-grade manganese ore and manganese-rich fumes after pressure acid leaching to obtain a manganese sulfate solution, which is then purified through iron removal by oxidation neutralization; finally, the purified liquid is treated using extraction-back-extraction. We investigated the effects of various extraction parameters on the extraction rate of manganese, as well as the effects of various back-extraction parameters on the manganese back-extraction rate and manganese ion concentration in the back-extraction solution, and studied the extraction-back-extraction process. We found that the extraction and back-extraction rates of manganese could reach 95% and 96.9%, respectively, under optimal conditions..
Magnetic Hyperthermia of Polyvinylpyrrolidone Coated La0.6Sr0.4MnO3 Nanoparticles Synthesized by Sol-Gel Auto Combust Method
Authors: Yashpreet  , Chudasama Bhupendra
Published: March 2023

Lanthanum strontium manganite (La0.6Sr0.4MnO3) nanoparticles have been synthesized by sol-gel auto combustion method. Four sets of LSMO nanoparticles have been synthesized by varying the reaction pH from 10 to 13. LSMO nanoparticles were further functionalized with Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP). Structural properties of LSMO nanoparticles were determined by powder X-ray diffraction. Rietveld refinement of diffractograms revealed that irrespective of synthesis conditions, LSMO nanoparticles were synthesized with rhombohedral and orthorhombic crystal phases. Magnetic properties (saturation magnetization, domain magnetization and Curie temperature) of LSMO nanoparticles have been determined by vibration sample magnetometer. Synthesized LSMO nanoparticles are soft ferromagnetic and possesses Curie temperature in between 360 – 370 K. Their saturation magnetization increases with increases in reaction pH, which is in good agreement with the corresponding increase in their rhombohedral phase fraction. PVP coated LSMO nanoparticles when exposed to AC magnetic field produces magnetic hyperthermia temperature (45 °C) within 10 minutes of exposure. Hyperthermia efficiency of LSMO nanoparticles measured in terms of specific loss power (SLP) increases with magnetic field frequency and field strength and it decreases with nanoparticle concentration. LSMO nanoparticles synthesized at pH 10, 11 and 12 are suitable for the magnetic hyperthermia therapy of cancer while the one synthesized at pH 13 is not suitable for magnetic hyperthermia as it could not produce the requisite temperature of 45 °C needed to induce cell apoptosis in in-vivo experiments. Highest hyperthermia efficiency (15.69 W/g) was observed for PVP coated LSMO nanoparticles (concentration: 12.5 mg/mL) synthesized at pH 10 when exposed to an AC magnetic field of strength 10 mT and field frequency of 935.6 KHz.
Enhance the Growth of Clostridium ljungdahlii Microbial Cells by Modifying the Medium Composition and Trace Metals
Authors: Istiqomah Noviani Arifina , Krista Gustin Mustika , Mukti Rendy , Kresnowati Made Tri Ari Penia , Setiadi Tjandra
Published: March 2023

Syngas fermentation is an alternative route that combines the advantages of thermochemical and biochemical processes have been proposed for biomass conversion to ethanol. One of the main obstacles to syngas fermentation is the low yield of ethanol, caused by the limited utilization of the syngas substrate due to low microbial cell concentration in the fermentation system. This research examined the modification of fermentation medium to improve microbial cell growth. The modifications were to increase the concentration of micronutrients/trace metals and macronutrients in the medium. The results showed that the maximum mass cell and maximum growth rate produced by microbial growth in the modified trace metal medium were 0.63 g/L and 0.0076 h-1, while in a modified macronutrient medium were 0.97 g/L and 0.0298 h-1. Modification of the macronutrient medium was able to increase the yield of biomass, but the opposite occurred in the modification of the trace metals. Meanwhile, the maximum concentration of ethanol from syngas fermentation in the modified macronutrient medium was lower than the concentration of ethanol in the standard medium.
Effect of heparin on recurrent IVF-ET failure patients
Authors: Shirmohamadi Maryam , Mashayekhy Mehri , Alipourfard Iraj , Fazeli Javad , Ghasemi Nasrin
Published: March 2023

Objective:

To elucidate the possible role of unfractionated heparin in patients with failed repeated in in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET) and thrombophilia.

Methods:

This case control study evaluated the efficacy of the unfractionated heparin in increasing the pregnancy and implantation ratio in women with recurrent IVF-ET failures. Eighty-six women received in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF/ICSI) with a record of three or more previous IVF-ET failures. Participants were randomly distributed into two groups. Group A (n=43) received unfractionated heparin 5 000 IU twice daily, and group B (n=43) did not take any antithrombotic drugs. Coagulation abnormalities such as factor V Leiden (FVL) mutation, methylene tetra hydro folate reductase (MTHFR) mutation and prothrombin mutation (FII) were evaluated. Age, body mass index, basal follicular stimulating hormone, basal estradiol, duration of infertility, and number of IVF-ET failures were compared between two groups.

Results:

45.0% and 17.4% of women were pregnant with and without MTHFR and prothrombin mutation, respectively, when they received unfractionated heparin treatment. The implantation rate was more in group A (12.5%) than group B (4.3%) and differences in the fertilization rate of the two groups were observed (27.7% vs. 35.9%). The clinical pregnancy rate per cycle was remarkably more in group A (30.2%) than group B (14.0%).

Conclusions:

Heparin is a safe and valuable treatment for patients with repeated IVF-ET failures. The clinical pregnancy and implantation rates are higher in the heparin-treated group in contrast with the control group.

Trial registration:

The trial registration was done with clinical registration number of “ IRCT138807202575N1”.
Vitamin E modulates androgen receptor gene expression to attenuate ovarian dysfunctions in a rat model of dehydroepiandrosterone-induced polycystic ovary
Authors: Olaniyan Olugbemi T , Dare Ayobami , Adetunji Charles O. , Okotie Gloria E. , Dare Joseph B. , Adigun Bosun M. , Adebayo Femi
Published: March 2023

Objective:

To investigate the protective effect of vitamin E in dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)-induced polycystic ovary in rats.

Methods:

Premature female Wistar rats were randomly allocated into four groups, with 7 rats in each group. Group I received corn oil (vehicle) and served as the control group; group II received 0.2 mL of 0.06 mg/g DHEA in corn oil; group III received 200 mg/kg vitamin E; group IV received DHEA plus vitamin E. All treatments lasted for 15 days, with DHEA administered subcutaneously, while vitamin E and corn oil were administered orally. After the experiment, serum samples and ovaries were harvested for biochemical, immunohistochemical, hormonal, and histological analysis. The ovarian mRNA expression of androgen receptor was analyzed by reverse transcriptase quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR).

Results:

The antioxidant and metabolic enzyme activity significantly decreased in the DHEA-treated rats compared to the control rats (P<0.05). Administration of vitamin E to DHEA-treated rats significantly decreased cytokines and malondialdehyde compared to the DHEA-treated rats. The histological analysis showed reduced atretic and cystic ovaries, increased E-cadherin and Bcl-2 expression, and reduced expression of Bax in the DHEA-treated rats co-treated with vitamin E. The mRNA expression of androgen receptor was upregulated in the DHEA-treated rats compared to the control rats.

Conclusions:

Vitamin E ameliorates the hyperandrogenic effect of DHEA-induced polycystic ovaries via metabolic, antioxidant, and anti-apoptotic pathways.
Salivary 1,5-Anhydroglucitol and its Correlation with Postprandial Hyperglycemia: Development and Validation of a Novel Assay
Authors: Kedarnath Priyadarshini Subramaniam , Subramanian S. Sathasiva , Bhaskar Emmanuel , Kasi Mohan , Pillai Vinod , Subramanian Saravanan , Manohar Venkat
Published: March 2023

Background:

Saliva has the potential to be used as a noninvasive sample for testing hyperglycemia in diabetes mellitus. Serum 1,5-anhydroglucitol (1,5-AG) decreases with an increase in blood sugar >180 mg/dl. We hypothesized that salivary 1,5-AG can be used to identify blood sugar higher than 180 mg/dl using a novel biochemical method.

Aim:

This study aimed to develop a novel biochemical method for serum and salivary assessment of 1,5-AG and assess its correlation with postprandial blood sugar (PPBS) >180 mg/dl.

Methodology:

The study comprised 45 controls (healthy individuals) and 45 cases (type 2 diabetic patients with PPBS >180 mg/dl). Blood and salivary samples were collected according to the study protocol. A new method was developed for the quantification of 1,5-AG in serum and saliva using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry.

Results:

The value of serum (mean –22.19 μg/ml and median –22.12 μg/ml) and salivary (mean –0.124 μg/ml and median –0.088 μg/ml) 1,5-AG was higher in healthy individuals compared to corresponding serum (mean –3.89 μg/ml and median –2.52 μg/ml) and salivary (mean –0.025 μg/ml and median – 0.025 μg/ml) levels in diabetics with PPBS >180 mg/dl. In diabetics, a significant negative correlation was noticed with PPBS levels and 1,5-AG levels in serum and saliva. Salivary 1,5-AG level <0.054 μg/ml had an 86.4% sensitivity and 87.2% specificity in predicting a blood sugar value >180 mg/dl.

Conclusion:

The results of our study suggest that the short-term glycemic marker 1,5-AG can be detected in saliva and can be useful as an adjunct marker in monitoring of glycemic status in diabetic patients.
Relationship between Hemispheric Preference Score and Academic Performance among Preclinical Medical Students Studying Medicine and Dentistry
Authors: Khanal Laxman , Shah Sandip , Koirala Sarun , Rimal Jyotsna , Adhikari Baikuntha Raj , Baral Dharanidhar
Published: March 2023

Background:

Understanding the style of learning and thinking (SOLAT) of the students is necessary to keep students actively involved in learning, which could influence the academic performance of the students.

Aim:

The objective of this study was to compare the right and left hemisphere preferences for processing information with academic performance of medical students in both theory and practical exams.

Materials and Methods:

The hemispheric preference score for learning and thinking style among first year MBBS (95) and BDS (42) students was determined by SOLAT tool prepared by Dr. V. Venkataraman (1994). A comparison of the hemispheric score between high achievers and low achievers in theory and practical exams was performed by using the unpaired Student’s t-test and Mann–Whitney U-test.

Results:

The mean hemispheric scores for the right hemisphere, left hemisphere, and whole brain were 26.51, 14.5, and 6.76, respectively. High achievers in theory exam and practical exam received a higher left-hemispheric score and whole-brain score than low achievers; the difference in the mean value of hemispheric score was statistically not significant.

Conclusion:

There was no statistically significant relationship between academic achievement and hemispheric preference scores.
Pancytopenia in Carbamazepine Therapy: A Rare and Serious Entity with Simple Prevention
Authors: Bhardwaj Akansha , Prakash Rashmi , Gupta Dimple , Jose Nimmi
Published: March 2023

Carbamazepine is a commonly used drug in psychiatric settings used for indications such as partial seizures, generalized tonic-clonic seizures, mixed seizure patterns, pain associated with trigeminal neuralgia, acute manic, and mixed manic states. However, this drug comes with its own series of adverse effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, hyponatremia, headaches, and dry mouth. One serious side effect which is rarely documented includes “carbamazepine-induced pancytopenia.” In this case report, we wish to highlight a known case of schizophrenia, who was taking tablet carbamazepine as adjunctive treatment and subsequently developed pancytopenia. On removing the offending agent, her counts gradually returned to normal. By reporting this case, we wish to emphasize regarding the importance of regular monitoring of complete blood count, which often gets neglected. Furthermore, psychoeducating patients regarding regular blood monitoring and the importance of adherence holds considerable importance in enhancing their compliance. By ensuring such simple preventive measures, such serious and unusual side effects may be averted through early detection of warning signs.
Effect of Conventional and Rolled Cigarette Smoke on the Colour of Artificial Teeth and Effectiveness of Hygiene Protocols in Removing Pigmentation - An in vitro Study
Authors: Alvim Graziele Cristina , Paiva Gabriella Rodovalho , Alandia-Román Carla Cecilia , Lepri César P. , De Castro Denise T.
Published: March 2023

Context:

Artificial teeth are widely used in oral rehabilitation. Despite the benefits, they are more susceptible to colour changes, causing aesthetic problems.

Aims:

To evaluate the effect of conventional cigarette and straw smoke on the colour of artificial teeth and the effectiveness of hygiene protocols in removing pigmentation.

Material and Methods:

Acrylic resin incisors were divided into two groups (n = 50): Exposed to conventional cigarette and straw smoke. Regarding the effectiveness of hygiene protocols, the teeth were divided into ten subgroups with predetermined immersion times. The colour was measured with a colorimeter. The CIE values L* a* b* were recorded before and after exposure to smoke and after hygiene protocols. Statistical analysis used T-test of independent samples and two-way ANOVA with Bonferroni post-test (α = 0.05).

Results:

Conventional (16.16 ± 1.65) and straw (16.29 ± 1.95) cigarettes provided clinically unacceptable ΔE values, with no significant difference between them (P = 0.719). Conventional cigarettes promoted less luminosity (ΔL = –12.68 ± 1.28) (P < 0.001) and straw greater tendency to yellow (Δb = 11.00 ± 1.46) (P < 0.001). The hygiene protocols influenced the ΔE, ΔL, and Δb of the samples, depending on the type of smoke (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

The conventional and rolled cigarette smoke promote an unacceptable colour change in artificial teeth. Hygiene protocols with the use of brushing, in isolation or in association with chemical solutions are more effective in removing pigmentation caused by both types of cigarettes compared to only the chemical solution.
Evaluation of the Efficacy of Different Intracanal Medicaments Against Candida albicans and Enterococcus faecalis - An In-Vitro Study
Authors: Mathew Rohit , Sukumaran Ashok S. , Singh Prabath , Varughese Anju V.
Published: March 2023

Aim:

This study aims to evaluate the antimicrobial efficacy of certain intracanal medicaments against Candida albicans and Enterococcus faecalis.

Methods:

Freshly extracted 120 single rooted mandibular premolars were selected for the study. Teeth were decoronated and cleaning and shaping was done up to F3 universal protaper system and were divided mainly into two groups: Candida albicans (C. albicans) (n = 60) and Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis) (n = 60). The medicaments include: G1: chlorhexidine + calcium hydroxide, G2: sodium hypochlorite + calcium hydroxide, G3: 2% chlorhexidine gel, G4: octenisept, G5: 0.1% octenisept solution + calcium hydroxide, and G6: physiologic saline (n = 5). Teeth were contaminated with Enterococcus faecalis and Candida albicans which were cultured, respectively, in brain heart infusion and Sabouraud's dextrose agar for 21 days followed by intracanal medication and colony forming units were counted on the second and seventh day. Statistical analysis was done using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Tukey's post hoc test.

Results:

Against C. albicans, CHX + CH, 2% CHX gel, 0.1% octenidine (OCT) gel and OCT + CH showed statistically significant differences on the 2nd and 7th day. But against Enterococcus faecalis, only 0.1% OCT gel and 2% CHX gel showed statistically significant differences on the 2nd and 7th day. Among all the groups, 0.1% OCT gel and 2% CHX gel showed predominant antimicrobial efficacy.

Conclusion:

From the limitations of the current study, all the medicaments showed antimicrobial effect against Candida albicans and Enterococcus faecalis on the 2nd and 7th day with higher microbial inhibition on the 7th day.
The Effect of COVID-19 on Orthodontic Treatment Demand and its Delivery in India
Authors: Grewal Harpreet , Bhutiani Neha , Balachandran Rajiv
Published: March 2023

Introduction:

The ongoing pandemic has transformed the entire structural and functional framework of the world including the medical and dental healthcare services. The current study intends to examine the pattern of dynamically changing working conditions and orthodontic treatment delivery during the various phases of pandemic.

Method:

An online survey was conducted using Google form for orthodontic specialists practicing in India. Information regarding the impact of the pandemic on various aspects like patient turnover, treatment demand, clinical management, and new challenges faced were analysed through a self-designed close-ended questionnaire for two phases. Phase I (March 2020 to September 2020) corresponded to the onset of COVID 19 pandemic and lockdown, whereas the Phase II (October 2020 to March 2021) coincided with the time of Unlock and resumption of activities thereafter.

Results:

The parameters showing similar trend in Phases I and II included the willingness of ongoing orthodontic patients to report for appointments, choice of treatment modality, number and type of emergencies, cost of materials, guidelines for work, and duration of non-delivery of orthodontic procedures. The new patients reporting, complex orthodontic therapy, tele-consultation, and financial wellbeing showed an improvement while the usage of personal protective equipment kit, fear amongst orthodontists reduced in Phase II.

Conclusions:

Challenging situations warrant prudent measures to combat and continue the essential services, especially those related to the healthcare. A detailed analysis of the various phases of the ongoing pandemic will enable us to devise suitable measures to ensure uninterrupted orthodontic treatment even in such critical times.
Prevalence of Periodontitis and its Association with Smokeless Tobacco (SLT) Use Amongst the Adult Population of Greater Noida, India - A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Athar Simoona , Arora Sachit A. , Kalsi Rupali , Saurav Kumar , Arora Vikram , Baro Kamal
Published: March 2023

Context:

Smokeless tobacco (SLT) has been consumed in India since times immemorial. It is the need of an hour to emphasise about awareness and harmful effects of SLT in relation to periodontium.

Aim:

The aim of the study was to access the prevalence of periodontitis and its association with SLT amongst the adult population of Greater Noida, India. Settings and Design: Hospital-based study and cross-sectional design.

Methods and Material:

This cross-sectional study included 512 SLT subjects between the ages of 18 and 79 years. The study was carried out from December 2019 to January 2022. A self-designed questionnaire was used for recording demographic details, forms of SLT, frequency, duration of use, and sites of retention of SLT products. The clinical periodontal parameters such as periodontal pocket depth (PPD) and clinical attachment level (CAL) were recorded in a given point of time.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Chi-square test and logistic regression analysis.

Results:

The prevalence of periodontitis among SLT was 81.6% with the highest occurrence of Stage III Periodontitis (35.4%). The use of SLT for ≥10 years [odds ratio (OR) = 3.05, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.86–6.27] showed threefold the risk for periodontitis compared to others who consumed SLT for 4–5 years. Gutkha consumers [OR = 2.56 (95% CI = 0.75–3.48)] were 2.56 times more prone to have periodontitis as compared to other forms of SLT.

Conclusions:

Periodontitis is positively associated with SLT use. Awareness, timely intervention, and periodic screening in the SLT users will help to prevent the progression of periodontitis.
Evaluation of Wiping Edible Sesame Oils in the Oral Cavities of Hospitalised Older Patients Who Resist Oral Hygiene Management
Authors: Ogawa Toshiko , Nishio Junko
Published: March 2023

Context:

One of the causes of aspiration pneumonia is poor oral hygiene. We need care methods that caregivers can quickly, safely and inexpensively implement for convalescents with inadequate self-care. Edible sesame oil containing sesamin or sesaminol has already been shown to inhibit bacterial and fungal growth and have a vasodilating effect.

Aims:

The aim of this study is to evaluate the usefulness of using edible sesame oils for oral hygiene management.

Settings and Design:

This study evaluates an oral hygiene management method using two types of sesame oils in elderly hospitalised patients resistant to oral hygiene management.

Methods and Material:

The inpatients received oral care for 90 days. In the intervention groups, nurses brushed and wiped the oral cavity with roasted sesame oil (RSO) or sesame salad oil, while in the control group, care with tap water alone and brushing were done. Bacteria and Candida counts from tongue swabs, water content from the tongue's surface and cheek mucosa, oral health assessment tool (OHAT) and cytology of the cheek mucosa were assessed every 30 days before and after the intervention.

Results:

RSO showed a tendency to reduce the number of bacteria and Candida. There was an improvement in the OHAT scores with both oils. The water content or cytology was not changing.

Conclusions:

Sesame oils may improve oral hygiene and maintain health in older patients.
Effects of Different Storage Temperatures on the Properties of Nonlatex Orthodontic Modules
Authors: Sharma Shivam , Singh Ashish K. , Batra Puneet , Arora Nitin , Kannan Sridhar
Published: March 2023

Objective:

To evaluate and compare the effect of variation in storage temperatures and duration on a tensile load at failure of elastomeric modules.

Methods:

In total, 140 modules were used in the study, 20 of which were tested on day 0 as received from a company using a Universal testing machine for baseline estimation of tensile load at failure. The rest 120 modules were divided into 6 groups. Groups I, II, and III modules were stored at low (T1 = 1–5°C), moderate (T2 = 20–25°C) and high (T3 = 35–40°C) temperatures, respectively, for 6 months. Groups IV, V and VI modules were stored at temperatures T1, T2 and T3 for 1 year, respectively, and were tested for tensile load at failure.

Results:

The tensile load at failure for the control group was 21.588 ± 1.082 N and for 6-month interval at temperatures T1, T2 and T3 was 18.818 N ± 1.121 N, 17.841 N ± 1.334 N and 17.149 N ± 1.074 N, respectively, and for 1 year, it was 17.205 N ± 1.043 N, 16.836 N ± 0.487 N and 14.788 N ± 0.781 N, respectively. The tensile load at failure decreased significantly from 6 months to 1 year among each temperature group.

Conclusions:

Maximum force degradation was seen in modules at high temperature followed by medium temperature and low temperature at both 6 months and 1 year intervals, and tensile load at failure decreased significantly from 6 months to 1 year storage duration. These results conclude that the temperature and duration at which the samples were exposed during storage produce a significant change in the forces exerted by the modules.
Third Molar Maturity Index as an Efficient Tool for Prediction of Age in a Sample Indian Population - A Retrospective Study
Authors: Natarajan Srikant , Sharada C , Yellapurkar Shweta , Jose Nidhin Phillip , Shenoy Nandita , Naik Dilip G.
Published: March 2023

Introduction:

The age of 18 years is an important milestone for legal matters, and developmental parameters of teeth are often used for estimation of this age. The aim of this study is to assess the efficiency of third molar maturity index (I3M) in establishing age of 18 years in Dakshina Kannada population.

Methods:

A total of 700 orthopantomograms were retrieved from the archives of the radiology department of Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Mangalore. The length and the width of the open apex of the mandibular left third molar was assessed using Image J software and the Third molar maturity Index (I3M) was calculated and correlated with the age of the individual.

Results:

Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis showed the Area under curve of 0.94 and 0.96 in females and males, respectively, for prediction of age of 18 years. The cut-off of 0.08 predicted the 18-year cut-off with 97% specificity and 90.2% negative predictive value. The percentage of the accuracy was 80.23% if the I3M was <0.08.

Conclusion:

The efficiency of the cut-off of 0.08 of I3M has been tested in various population including Kosovar, Peruvian, South Indian, Libyan, Montenegro, Croatian, African (Botswana), Albanian, and Serbian. Our study also shows the efficiency of the same in South Indian Dakshina Kannada population.
Evaluation and Comparison of Mechanical Properties of Platelet-Rich Fibrin Membrane, Fish Collagen Membrane, Bovine Collagen Membrane and Chorionic Membrane – An SEM Study
Authors: Chhaya Deesha , Vaidya Naman , Patel Vasumati , Chudasama Krutika , Doshi Shivani H , Kumar Pravin
Published: March 2023

Objectives:

This study aimed to evaluate and compare the mechanical properties of platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) membrane with that of commercially available collagen membranes and chorionic membranes.

Materials and Methods:

The modulus of elasticity and hardness of PRF membrane, bovine collagen membrane, fish collagen membrane, and chorionic membrane were assessed using a universal testing machine. The in vitro degradation rate was assessed by placing these membranes on a temperature-controlled shaker set for one week. The degradation profiles were expressed as the accumulated weight loss of the membrane. A scanning electron microscope (SEM) evaluation of these membranes was done under both low and high magnification. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey's post hoc tests were performed for statistical analysis.

Results:

A statistically significant difference in the tensile strength and hardness of membranes was observed. Bovine collagen membrane had the highest strength (84.11 MPa and 16.46 MPa) followed by fish collagen membrane, chorionic membrane, and least for PRF membranes observed. The degradation rate at one week was highest for the PRF membrane (55.6%), followed by the fish collagen membrane (32.5%). SEM evaluation showed that the bovine collagen membrane had significantly higher numbers of collagen fibres compared to the fish collagen membrane and chorionic membrane.

Conclusion:

Bovine collagen membrane had the highest mechanical properties with the maximum amount of collagen fibre meshwork. Only the PRF membrane had cellular distribution in its composition, while the commercially available membrane had significantly higher numbers of collagen fibres with the total absence of cellular components.
“Oral Manifestations of HIV in Accordance with CD4 Count” – A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ayyagari Kameswara R. , Karra Kalyan K. , Birra Vinod , Triveni V.V.S. , Sreedevi Janapareddi , Peela Parameswar
Published: March 2023

Aims and Objectives:

Mouth acts as a mirror for most of the underlying systemic diseases. Very few studies were done in south Indian population to observe the oral manifestations of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in relation to the cluster of differentiation 4 (CD4) count, and this study mainly highlights the presenting complaint of HIV patients during their dental visit. The study was aimed to determine the chief complaints of patients along with oral manifestations of HIV and correlate them to CD4 count.

Materials and Methods:

One hundred consecutive HIV-positive patients were considered for the study. All the oral manifestations and the chief complaints along with the calculated CD4 counts were noted and the results were correlated. Spearman correlation was used for CD4 count and other oral manifestations.

Results:

The mean CD4 counts were 421 cells/mm3 with a standard deviation (SD) of 404.34 for the most common oral manifestation of burning mouth and 176.5 cells/mm3 for the least common manifestation of malignancies. The CD4 count ranged from 120 to 1100 cells/mm3. The mean age and CD4 count were 38 years and 398.86, respectively. There was a statistically significant correlation with candidiasis and gingivitis, and the rest of the conditions were insignificant.

Conclusion:

The study results suggest that the chief complaint of presentation of an HIV-positive patient is pain due to carious teeth/abscess followed by burning mouth, with candidiasis being the most common disease.
Antibiotic Prophylaxis Before Invasive Dental Procedures for Patients at High Risk of Infective Endocarditis - A Systematic Review
Authors: Albakri Aref , Ahsan Auswaf , Vengal Manoj , Ramacham parambathu Ashir Kolikkal , Majeed Abdul , Siddiq Hanan
Published: March 2023

Background:

Clinical use of antibiotics prophylaxis (AP) for preventing infective endocarditis (IE) after invasive dental procedures is controversial. Expert consensus guidelines are inconsistent, either restricting its use to high-risk individuals or advising its use again.

Objectives:

To determine whether there is a genuine need for AP to prevent IE in high-risk patients undergoing invasive dental procedures.

Methods:

Online search was performed on PubMed, Science Direct, British Dental Journal and Cochrane Register of Controlled Trials. The methodological quality of each study was assessed using the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions.

Results:

Seventeen (17) clinical trials were included in the final analysis recruiting 2,410 patients (AP = 1,366; placebo = 1,044). Bacteraemia was detected in 302 AP patients (22.1%) and 362 placebo patients (34.7%). AP reduced the risk of bacteraemia by 49% (risk ratio: 0.51; 95% CI; 0.45 to 0.58; P = 0.0001).

Conclusion:

Although using AP for IE may be pragmatic and justified for high-risk patients undergoing invasive dental procedures, the evidence is inconclusive because post-procedural bacteraemia may not be a good surrogate marker for IE. Moreover, trials investigating the direct association between AP and IE are lacking due to low disease prevalence and high-cost challenges.
Takotsubo Syndrome with Complete Heart Block and Cardiogenic Shock
Authors: Shukla Madhu , Mohan Jagdish Chander
Published: March 2023

This report describes a 62-year-old postmenopausal female patient who presented with cardiogenic shock, wide QRS complete heart block (CHB), left ventricular apical ballooning with severe systolic dysfunction, and normal coronary angiogram. She underwent permanent pacemaker implantation and showed a disappearance of apical dyskinesis and significant improvement in left ventricular function over the next 1 week. CHB was persistent at follow-up. Relevant literature with regard to this unique combination is discussed.
Clinicobacteriological profile and antibiotic susceptibility pattern of chronic dacryocystitis in adults
Authors: Minj Anita , Pareek Deergha , Satapathy Jasmita , Panigrahi Pradeep Kumar
Published: March 2023

Background:

Chronic dacryocystitis is a constant menace to delicate ocular structures. If left untreated, it can lead to sight as well as life-threatening complications. However, such complications may be prevented by timely intervention along with appropriate antibiotic prophylaxis. The objectives are to investigate the current bacterial community profile in adult patients with chronic dacryocystitis attending a referral eye care center in Odisha and to determine their drug susceptibility pattern to commonly used antimicrobial agents.

Materials and Methods:

An observational study was conducted on 70 adult patients with chronic dacryocystitis. The discharge from the punctum was collected by doing a regurgitation test or lacrimal passage irrigation and sent for microbiological analysis.

Results:

Out of 70 samples collected, 54 (77.1%) samples showed bacterial growth after 24–48 h of incubation. Among various isolates recovered, 68.5% were gram-positive and 27.8% were gram-negative organisms. Staphylococcus aureus was found to be the most common isolate among gram-positive, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa was most common among gram-negative organisms. Among all drugs used in the susceptibility test; amikacin, piperacilin + tazobactam, and netilmycin were found to be most sensitive and cefixime, and amoxycilin + clavulinic acid was found to be most resistant to gram-positive as well as for gram-negative organisms.

Conclusion:

Knowledge about the microbiological profile and the drug susceptibility pattern responsible for chronic dacryocystitis in a geographical area is important and should be kept in mind while treating these patients.
Awareness, willingness, and challenges of the informal sector toward state National Health Insurance Services in Benin City, Nigeria
Authors: Osunde Ngozi R , Olorunfemi Olaolorunpo , Oduyemi Rachael O
Published: March 2023

Background:

As access to vital health services expands and universal health coverage is attained, health insurance is projected to serve as a critical risk protection for families and small enterprises.

Aim:

To assess the informal sector’s awareness, willingness, and problems in enrolling in the state national health insurance program.

Materials and Methods:

This cross-sectional descriptive study was done in Benin City, Nigeria, in the unorganized sector. A self-structured questionnaire was created, distributed, and retrieved for this study, which was conducted among 155 artisans chosen through a stratified random sample procedure. To evaluate the data, Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, SPSS version 22 was used.

Results:

In total, 138 people (89.0%) are aware of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), while only 93 people (60.0%) know that Edo state has a state-owned Health Insurance Scheme (SHIS). Only 17 people, or 11.0%, are engaged in the NHIS/SHIS program, whereas 107 people, or 77.5%, have expressed interest. Lack of accessibility to authorized healthcare facilities near house 22 (71.0%) is a significant deterrent to enrollment in the program. Long lines at service points (3.88, 1.093), the time it takes to enroll new members in the program (3.78, 1.101), the time it takes for health maintenance organizations to issue authorization codes (3.62, 1.316), the accessibility of NHIS services outside of registration institutions (3.29, 1.289), and the standard of drugs provided by the SHIS (3.12, 1.358) are all factors that hinder utilization. Sex and place of residence each strongly correlated with readiness to sign up for the program (AOR = 4.234, P = 0.017, 95% CI: 1.293–13.873 and AOR = 5.224, P = 0.007, 95% CI: 1.557–17.530, respectively).

Conclusion:

The artisans have a low rate of health insurance coverage but are eager to sign up for the program. State policymakers should increase their reach and make enrollment required to attain a higher range.
Turnaround time for the issuing of packed red cells: A retrospective study in a tertiary care hospital
Authors: Sarkar Satyam , Singh Iqbal , Dhote Shweta W
Published: March 2023

Introduction:

Turnaround time (TAT) is one of the most crucial performance indicators for blood transfusion and laboratory services. It is especially crucial in transfusion services due to its seminal role as a determining factor in patient care outcomes. We examined our institution’s TAT for issuing blood units.

Materials and Methods:

The Department of Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion, MGM Medical College and Hospital in Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India, undertook this retrospective noninterventional study over 12 months from January 01, 2020 to December 31, 2020. TAT was determined using a random audit of 10% of all monthly requests at the blood center. All requests for packed red cells (PRCs) received in the blood center during the study period were included in the evaluation. All requests for other blood components such as fresh-frozen plasma, random donor platelets, and cryoprecipitates were excluded along with all reservations for PRCs. A team of investigators tracked 369 requests for packed red cells over the year, noting the turnaround time. The standard TAT was set depending on the nature of the clinical case. Any significant deviation from institutionally established TAT was investigated, and root cause analysis was done.

Results:

The majority of transfusion requests were routine (72%) followed by emergency (23%) and lifesaving (5%). For routine cases, the average TAT was observed at 104 minutes. For emergency cases, the average TAT was observed at 39 minutes. For lifesaving cases, the average TAT was observed at 12 minutes. The highest number of cases were categorized under routine, followed by emergency cases and lifesaving categories.

Conclusion:

It was observed that there were no significant variations in turnaround time in routine, emergency, or lifesaving cases. Overall, as per our blood center standards, TAT for the issue of packed red cells was observed to fall under the normal range for routine, emergency, and lifesaving. Any outliers observed during the duration of the study were mainly due to inadequate samples or patient details received at the blood center or the presence of irregular antibodies encountered during the crossmatch.
Associative role of methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase and thymidylate synthase 6bp del gene polymorphism in preterm delivery
Authors: Panikar Surya AS , Sharma Sunil , Sureshkumar Krishna , Dubey Shubhangi , Thakur Mansee Kapil
Published: March 2023

Objective:

Preterm delivery is a major adverse birth outcome, approximately 15 million babies are born prematurely every year. There are several causes for preterm deliveries. This study focuses on folate metabolic pathways. Dietary folate plays a crucial role in premature labor. We examined the relationship between methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) (C677T) and thymidylate synthase (TYMS) 6bpdel polymorphism.

Materials and Methods:

A total number of 300 pregnant women were selected for this study; among which (n = 150) were preterm and (n = 150) were term delivery cases. The selected samples were further processed for molecular polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis. The demographic profile of birth status resulted significantly with (P = 0.0001) proving chances of high infant mortality due to prematurity.

Results:

The genotype distribution of MTHFR C677T showed significant data (P = 0.0021) whereas insignificant genotypic distribution was observed for the TYMS gene (P = 0.067). Our results imply that genes that are involved in the folate pathway play a crucial role in early pregnancy.

Conclusion:

Advanced and better strategies can be brought to an improved intervention of folate at the time of pregnancy which will help to reduce the rate of premature deliveries.
Adverse events following COVID-19 vaccination: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Bansod Vaishali P , Agawane Shubhangi U , Gawade Sachin A , Gore Harishchandra D , Chawla Parvinder S
Published: March 2023

Background:

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines are essential to tear out the COVID-19 pandemic. COVAXIN and COVISHIELD were the first licensed vaccines in India for public use. For safety surveillance reporting, adverse events following immunization were an essential and integral part of the postlicensure phase for benefit-risk analysis of vaccines. Public trust in newly introduced vaccines will be strengthened by monitoring vaccine safety. So this study was planned to find out adverse events following COVISHIELD vaccination and the association of some factors with adverse events following COVISHIELD vaccination among vaccinees at vaccination centers of tertiary care hospitals.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional study was carried out among vaccinees at vaccination centers in tertiary care hospitals. Data was collected through Google forms containing a structured questionnaire.

Results:

A total of 530 adverse events following immunization (AEFI) were reported by 146 (39.46%) participants, where one participant experienced more than one AEFI with the COVISHIELD vaccine. The most common reported AEFI were myalgia (104 [19.62%]), fever (104 [19.62%]), and fatigue/lethargy (104 [19.62%]), followed by pain at the injection site (80 [15.09%]). Participants who experienced AEFI with other vaccines and had a previous history of COVID-19 infection were found to be significant independent predictors of AEFI with the COVISHIELD vaccine.

Conclusion:

Most AEFIs were mild and lasted for a short duration, subsiding on symptomatic treatment. We found only the history of AFFI with other vaccines and previous infection with COVID-19 as significant predictors for the occurrence of AEFI with the COVISHIELD vaccine.
Perception of Indian citizens regarding lockdown during COVID-19 pandemic in the Indian context
Authors: Kulkarni Shraddha S , Nannaware Maya , Singru Samir , Bansod Vaishali P , Chawla Col P S , Kalra Khyati
Published: March 2023

Background:

In response to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the government of India declared a lockdown on March 24, 2020. This affected the daily life of citizens, influencing the availability of daily needs. There was a diverse opinion among public health experts regarding the implementation of the lockdown. Therefore, this study was planned to assess the perceptions and to study the effects of lockdown and challenges faced by Indian citizens during the lockdown imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional study was carried out among Indian citizens above 18 years old using the snowball sampling method. Data were collected through Google forms containing a semistructured questionnaire.

Results:

Of 464 participants, 61.85% of them reported that lockdown is necessary to contain the spread of the coronavirus infection; 50.43% had a negative effect on their job; and felt mental health problems like anxiety, lack of sleep, stress due to increased workload, and the feeling of separated from family.

Conclusion:

According to the majority of participants, the lockdown was necessary to contain the spread of the pandemic. Participants who faced different problems also found ways to overcome them in a positive way.
Effect of selected physical exercises on low back pain
Authors: Badhe Archana M , Aman Marudhar , Sonawane Dhiraj V
Published: March 2023

Background:

Men and women are equally affected by low back pain (LBP), which can range in intensity from a dull, constant ache to a sudden, sharp sensation that hinders the person. Pain can begin abruptly due to an accident or by lifting something heavy, or it can develop over time due to age-related changes in the spine. LBP is one of the primary healthcare problems in all developing countries; nurses play a vital role in giving different interventions to treat back pain effectively. This study aims to study the effect of selected physical exercise on LBP among patients attending the outpatient department (OPD) in selected hospitals.

Materials and Methods:

A quasi-experimental, one-group pretest–posttest time series research design was used to conduct a study among the patients attending OPD in selected hospitals. A total of 160 respondents were studied from October 2021 to February 2022. A numerical pain scale and a semistructured self-administered questionnaire were used to collect data. Only respondents who gave informed consent were issued the questionnaire to complete at their convenience. Physical exercises were demonstrated and done by patients for 6 weeks, thrice a day in a week for 30 min regularly. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24.0. Descriptive data were presented in the form of bar graphs and frequency tables.

Results:

The study showed that 59.37% of the respondents had severe LBP in the pretest. After doing selected physical exercises, the severe pain level reduced to 56.25% in post-test-1, 32.5% in post-test-2, and 14.37% in post-test-3. The t value of the difference in mean reduction of LBP was tabulated, and the calculated t values were (0.78, 5.60, 9.64) statistically significant at 0.05 level of significance (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

LBP is seen as an issue for all ages and all sectors of society. One common component of pain treatment programs focuses on increased physical exercise reconditioning, and exercise would increase strength and concomitantly decrease pain as a long-term effect. The investigator found that physical activities were very effective and beneficial in reducing back pain among patients with LBP.
Parvovirus B19 infection in a patient of juvenile arthritis: A case report
Authors: Mohammed Tariq I , Deshmukh Ashish R , Kochhar Tanya , Patlola Alekhya
Published: March 2023

Parvovirus B19 infection, or fifth disease or erythema infectiosum, is a self-limiting viral exanthem and can occur along with other connective tissue disorders. Occasionally, children may have preceding chronic joint complaints suggestive of juvenile idiopathic arthritis. A 7-year-old female patient presented to the outpatient department with a rash over her face, upper and lower limbs, and trunk, which was preceded by fever. The patient is a known case of juvenile arthritis. On examination, there were multiple erythematous and skin-colored plaques over cheeks; few pustules over lips; multiple erythematous papules over upper limbs, lower limbs, and trunk; multiple erythematous macules over palms; and swelling over interphalangeal joints of bilateral hands, elbow and knee joints with genu valgum deformity of limbs. The patient was given topical antibiotic and steroid combination cream and oral antihistaminic for her cutaneous complaints.