bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Retention and Effectiveness of School-based Dental Sealant Programs in Lucknow – A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Poddar Piyali , Reddy Vamsi Krishna , Saha Sabyasachi 
Published: July 2024

Background:Pit-and-fissure sealants, particularly the resin-based type, are widely used as the most efficient technique for preventing caries on the occlusal surfaces of permanent molars. School-based dental sealant (SBDS) program is a system where sealants are applied to the children in their schools with the primary aim to certify and safeguard the permanent molars that are sealed at the earliest after eruption.Aim:The aim of this study was to evaluate the retention and effectiveness of SBDS Programs in Lucknow, UP.Materials and Methods:A split-mouth randomized controlled trial was conducted among 6-year-old school-going children of Lucknow, UP. The study was carried out by a single trained and calibrated investigator who recorded the dentition status. The investigator interviewed the participants using a pro forma and examined the subjects included in the study. The sealant was applied to one tooth in the pair of fully erupted permanent first molars, and no treatment was done on the other side.Results:The proportion of total retention after 1½ years was significantly higher in mandibular as compared with maxillary molars (Z= 2.04;P= 0.04). The risk of having caries was 3.52 times more among children with no treatment as compared to children with treatment (odds ratio [OR] – 3.52 [1.01, 13.11];P= 0.04; statistically significant). The association between survival rate of sealant and International Caries Detection and Assessment System codes (0 and 1–2) as well as that between retention of sealant and caries status was statistically significant (P< 0.01 and 0.00001, respectively). The risk of having caries was 1.28 times more among males as compared to females (OR – 1.28 [0.38, 4.24];P= 0.06), 1.61 times for sugar exposure (OR – 1.61 [0.53, 6.19];P= 0.53; nonsignificant).Conclusion:Sealant application proved to be an efficient method in preventing dental caries development; hence, SBDS programs, wherein the sealants were placed at school, were highly efficacious and acceptable in the vulnerable populace.
Effect of Online Teaching Methods on Dental Education among Undergraduate Dental Students during Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic in Nellore City: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Kamireddy Mounika , Kumar R. V. S. Krishna , Athuluru Deepthi , Gomasani Srinivasulu , Reddy V. Prathyusha , Prasanth Punamalli Symon 
Published: July 2024

Introduction:
During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, education through online teaching became a new normal for India though it is fairly a very new concept for majority of students and teachers. As per the UNESCO estimates, COVID-19-related closure of educational institutions impacted the study of 1540 million students across 191 nations.

Aim:
The present study aimed to assess the effect of online teaching methods on dental education and perspectives among dental undergraduates.

Materials and Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted among 1st-, 2nd-, 3rd-, and 4th-year undergraduate dental students in Nellore city. A structured questionnaire was given through Google Forms regarding their opinion on comfort, flexibility, interaction, and stress during online teaching. It also included the impact of online teaching on academic performance and their preference for future curriculum. To assess the qualitative data, the Chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests were applied. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05.

Results:
Out of 266 who filled the questionnaire, 215 students never used online platform to attend classes before the pandemic. Eighty-nine percent were using smartphones to attend the classes. 38.3% are comfortable and 61.6% are not comfortable with online teaching. 74.4% of students responded that their preclinical and clinical learning was reduced since the transition to online teaching. There is no significant difference in content presentation, interaction, and response of lecturers. However, there is a lack of online quizzes or polls in between lectures.

Conclusion:
Overall, online teaching can be used as an adjunct rather than replacement for traditional classroom teaching in their future curriculum.
To Correlate the Oral Health-related Quality of Life Between Smokers and Smokeless Tobacco Users Among 35–44 Years Age Group Attending Teerthanker Mahaveer Dental College and Research Centre, Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
Authors: Pandey Harshita , Tangade Pradeep , Singh Vikas , Jain Ankita , Srivastava Rangoli , Sharma Mukund 
Published: July 2024

Background:
Tobacco use poses severe health risks globally, affecting both young people and adults. It is highly addictive and a major contributor to various diseases, including cancer. This research at Teerthanker Mahaveer Dental College and Research Centre (TMDC and RC), Moradabad, focused on participants aged 35–44, highlighting the urgent need to address tobacco-related issues for public health and economic well-being.

Aim:
This study assesses the occurrence of smokers and smokeless tobacco and analyzes its correlation with the oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) among participants.

Materials and Methods:
A prevalence study was substantiated at TMDC and RC, Moradabad, involving 640 participants aged between 35 and 44 years. Informed assent was obtained from all participants. Sociodemographic information was collected, and their oral mucous lesions were assessed using the World Health Organization form. In addition, participants completed a validated Hindi version of the Oral Health Impact Profile-14 questionnaire to evaluate their OHRQoL.

Results:
The study revealed a higher prevalence of tobacco usage among males compared to females. Furthermore, the prevalence of smoking was established to be greater than that of smokeless tobacco. Consequently, a statistically apparent association was recognized between smokers and their OHRQoL, as well as between users of smokeless tobacco and their OHRQoL. However, no association was established between smokers, smokeless tobacco users, and OHRQoL when considering the significance value.

Conclusion:
The study indicates that individuals aged 35–44 years who use either smoked or smokeless tobacco experience similar impacts on their OHRQoL. Encouraging regular dental examinations, facilitating access to tobacco cessation programs, and extending support for individuals to sustain tobacco-free lifestyles are indispensable strategies for amplifying oral health outcomes besides the overall quality of life among individuals aged 35–44.
Antibacterial Effect of Mouth Rinsing with a Solution Containing 1.6% Syzygium aromaticum Extract against Streptococcus mutans: An In vivo Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Yavagal Puja C. , Kamakeri Aishwarya , Narayanaswamy Muktha , Nekkanti Monisha , Bhuvija Pinnapareddy 
Published: July 2024

Background and Objective:
Clove (Syzygium aromaticum) extract has antimicrobial and antioxidant potential. The objective was to assess and compare the salivary Streptococcus mutans counts on Mitis Salivarius Bacterium agar plates after 1 h of mouth rinsing with 30 mL solutions containing S. aromaticum and 0.2% chlorhexidine among 18–30-year-old adults in a clinical setting.

Methodology:
Sixteen participants fulfilling the eligibility criteria were randomized into two groups. Group A: rinsed with 0.16% S. aromaticum extract mouth rinse and Group B: rinsed with 0.2% chlorhexidine mouthwash. Saliva samples of the participants were collected before and 1 h after mouth rinsing with 30 mL of interventional mouth rinse, for S. mutans count analysis. IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows version 20 (IBM Corp., Armonk, N.Y., USA) was used for statistical analysis. The significance level was fixed at P < 0.05. Intra and Intergroup comparison of microbial counts was done using the Wilcoxon signed–rank test and Mann–Whitney U-test, respectively.

Results:
The results of the study showed that there was a significant reduction in salivary S. mutans counts in both the groups postmouth rinsing with interventional solutions (P < 0.05). However, the intergroup comparison revealed that, in the chlorhexidine group, there was significantly more reduction in salivary S. mutans counts compared to S. aromaticum mouth rinsing group (P = 0.02).

Conclusion:
There was a reduction in salivary S. mutans counts after mouth rinsing with a solution containing S. aromaticum. Hence, clove mouth rinse could be an effective aid for the prevention and control of dental caries since it is safe and culturally acceptable.
Schoolchildren’s Musculoskeletal Pain and Backpack Weight Impact on Posture: A Short-Term Study
Authors: Ahmed Nishath Anjum , Ahmed Mohammed Musheer , Ahmed Nida Anjum , Shahid Afreen , Mittal Gaurav 
Published: July 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:
Research indicates heavy backpacks can cause students to adjust their posture, potentially harming their spine and shoulders. This study focuses on musculoskeletal pain in schoolchildren in Bangalore, attributed to backpack weight, and examines postural impacts in both urban and rural settings.

Methodology:
With consent, 500 students from various schools underwent physical measurements, including backpack weight, and provided data through questionnaires. Postural angles were assessed without backpacks to determine the impact of weight.

Findings:
On average, students carried backpacks weighing 6.53 kg, about 13.53% of their body weight. Pain was reported by 50.9% of boys and 63.9% of girls, with a higher incidence among girls from private schools (88.2%) compared to boys from government schools (51.6%).

Conclusion:
A significant link was found between heavier backpacks and decreased craniovertebral angle, head on neck (HON), and head and neck on trunk (HNOT) angles, aligning with increased pain prevalence. This underscores the health risks of heavy school backpacks and the need for weight management.
Study on Knowledge of Infection Control Practice of Healthcare Workers
Authors: Rahman Gazi Reaz , Bhaumik Amiya 
Published: July 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:
Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), also known as nosocomial infections, are a significant risk in hospitals, leading to increased morbidity and mortality among patients due to poor hygiene practices.

Materials and Methods:
This descriptive study involved 350 participants from Wuhan’s private hospitals. Respondents answered a questionnaire distributed in person or via email, and data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0.

Results:
Analysis revealed a knowledge gap among healthcare workers in infection control, affecting their ability to maintain hospital cleanliness. Education levels were assessed, showing that 60% of participants held diplomas or higher qualifications.

Conclusion:
The study highlights the urgent need for enhanced training and information dissemination on infection control practices among healthcare staff. Identifying this knowledge and practice gap is crucial for improving hospital hygiene and reducing HAI incidence.
Comparative Evaluation of Surgical Techniques for Pterygium Management: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Alharbi Abdulmajeed 
Published: July 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:
Pterygium is a common ocular surface disorder characterized by the growth of fibrovascular tissue onto the cornea, leading to discomfort and visual impairment. Various surgical techniques, including conjunctival autografting, amniotic membrane transplantation, and bare sclera excision, are employed in the management of pterygium.

Materials and Methods:
Cultured human conjunctival epithelial cells were subjected to simulated pterygium conditions, mimicking the fibrovascular proliferation observed in vivo. Subsequently, different surgical techniques, including conjunctival autografting, amniotic membrane transplantation, and bare sclera excision, were simulated in vitro. Cell viability, proliferation, migration, and inflammatory cytokine expression were assessed using various assays, including MTT assay, scratch assay, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Untreated cells served as controls for comparison.

Results:
Conjunctival autografting demonstrated superior outcomes in terms of cell viability and proliferation compared to amniotic membrane transplantation and bare sclera excision. Autografted cells exhibited a significantly higher percentage of viable cells and enhanced proliferative capacity compared to cells subjected to other surgical techniques (P < 0.05). Additionally, conjunctival autografting promoted faster cell migration into the defect area, resulting in more rapid wound closure compared to other techniques. Furthermore, reduced expression of inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), was observed in cells treated with conjunctival autografts compared to other groups.

Conclusion:

In vitro findings suggest that conjunctival autografting may offer superior outcomes in the management of pterygium compared to amniotic membrane transplantation and bare sclera excision.
The Role of Tele-Orthodontics in Enhancing Patient Compliance and Treatment Monitoring
Authors: Almoammar Salem 
Published: July 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:
Tele-orthodontics, the application of telecommunications technology in orthodontic care, has emerged as a promising tool to enhance patient compliance and facilitate treatment monitoring. In traditional orthodontic practice, patient compliance and monitoring are pivotal but often challenging aspects. Tele-orthodontics offers a solution by providing remote communication and monitoring capabilities, potentially improving patient engagement and treatment outcomes.

Materials and Methods:
This study conducted a retrospective analysis of orthodontic patients who utilized tele-orthodontics as part of their treatment plan. A total of 100 patients were included in the study, with ages ranging from 12 to 40 years old. Patients were provided with mobile applications or web-based platforms enabling them to communicate with their orthodontists, submit progress images, and receive feedback remotely. Treatment compliance was assessed based on adherence to scheduled appointments, wearing of orthodontic appliances, and completion of prescribed exercises.

Results:
The analysis revealed a significant improvement in patient compliance with the implementation of tele-orthodontics. Adherence to scheduled appointments increased by 30%, with patients attending 95% of their appointments compared to 65% before the introduction of tele-orthodontics. Moreover, compliance with wearing orthodontic appliances showed a remarkable rise, with patients consistently wearing their appliances for an average of 22 h per day, up from 14 h per day previously. Additionally, the completion rate of prescribed exercises saw a notable enhancement, with 80% of patients completing their exercises as instructed, compared to 50% previously.

Conclusion:
Tele-orthodontics plays a significant role in enhancing patient compliance and treatment monitoring in orthodontic care. The remote communication and monitoring capabilities provided by tele-orthodontic platforms empower patients to actively participate in their treatment process, leading to improved adherence to appointments, better compliance with wearing orthodontic appliances, and increased completion of prescribed exercises. These findings underscore the importance of integrating tele-orthodontics into orthodontic practice to optimize patient outcomes and satisfaction.
The Effectiveness of Zirconia Crowns Versus Metal Crowns in Anterior Teeth: In vitro Study
Authors: Alharethi Naji Ahmad 
Published: July 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:
The selection between Zirconia crowns and metal crowns for anterior teeth restorations is pivotal in prosthodontics due to their distinct properties. However, a comprehensive investigation into their effectiveness in anterior tooth restorations is warranted.

Materials and Methods:
This in vitro study aimed to compare the effectiveness of Zirconia crowns and metal crowns in anterior teeth restorations. A total of thirty extracted human maxillary central incisors were prepared to receive crowns and randomly allocated into two groups: group A, zirconia crowns; and group B, metal crowns. The crowns were fabricated following standardized protocols and cemented onto the prepared teeth. Various tests, including fracture resistance, marginal adaptation, and color-matching assessment, were conducted on the samples.

Results:
The mean fracture resistance of Zirconia crowns (Group A) was determined to be 320 N (SD ± 25), whereas it was 280 N (SD ± 30) for metal crowns (Group B). Marginal adaptation assessment revealed a mean gap width of 50 microns (SD ± 10) for Zirconia crowns and 70 microns (SD ± 15) for metal crowns. Evaluation of color matching showed a higher percentage of acceptable matches for Zirconia crowns compared to metal crowns.

Conclusion:
Zirconia crowns exhibited superior fracture resistance, marginal adaptation, and color matching in comparison to metal crowns for anterior teeth restorations. These findings advocate for Zirconia crowns as a more effective choice for restoring anterior teeth, offering both strength and esthetic appeal.
Primary central nervous system neuroblastoma mimicking a meningioma: A case report
Authors: Yadav K , Sharma PK , Singh DK , Mishra VK 
Published: July 2024

ABSTRACT
Neuroblastomas are the most common extracranial solid tumor in the pediatric age group (~8%–10% of childhood neoplasms). Most cases of intracranial neuroblastomas occur due to metastasis from some primary extracranial sites and are known as secondary neuroblastomas. However, the occurrence of primary central nervous system neuroblastomas (PCN-NB) is very rare, and only a few cases and case series have been reported in the literature. PCN-NB is mainly an intra-axial pathology, and extra-axial involvement is mainly due to metastasis from some extracranial primary site with involvement of the skull bone. Herein we report a case of a 23-year-old female having a large extra-axial space-occupying lesion in the right frontal region that was mimicking a meningioma, and surprisingly the histopathology was suggestive of a supratentorial neuroblastoma. A right frontal craniotomy was made, and Simpson’s grade 1 excision of the tumor was done. The excised tissue was sent for histopathological examination. PCN-NB located extra-axially are extremely rare to occur. Due to inconsistent radiological imaging, it becomes very difficult to diagnose these tumors preoperatively, and these should be kept in mind as one of the differential diagnoses of extra-axial intracranial space-occupying lesions. Histopathological examination is crucial in diagnosing the intracranial neuroblastomas.
The Effectiveness of Superior Hypogastric Plexus Block with Bupivacaine for Pain Relief after Total Abdominal Hysterectomy: A Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Abdullahi Muhammad , Bello Galadima Ibrahim , Mustapha Tijjani Yusuf , Panti Abubakar Abubakar , Bala Mujtaba 
Published: July 2024

Background:
Postoperative pain is a major concern after total abdominal hysterectomy (TAH). We suggest that the use of intraoperative superior hypogastric plexus block (SHPB) could be a viable and safe alternative for managing postoperative pain in patients who have undergone TAH.

Materials and Methods:
After receiving ethical approval, 54 patients who were scheduled for TAH were divided equally into two groups: Group A and Group B. Following the procedure, patients in Group A (n = 27) were injected with 20 ml of 0.25% bupivacaine, whereas patients in Group B (n = 27) were injected with 20 ml of 0.9% saline into the superior hypogastric plexus’s (SHPs) anatomical position. After the surgery and recovery from anesthesia, all patients were administered intravenous morphine at a dosage of 0.1 mg/kg for postoperative pain relief. The Visual Analog Pain Scale was used to evaluate the postoperative pain. The quantity of morphine consumed within 24 h was also recorded. The data collected from the study were analyzed using IBM SPSS version 23.0.

Results:
The pain score measured in the postanesthesia care unit and at 1, 2, and 4 h after surgery was significantly lower in Group A when compared to Group B, with P < 0.05. There were no significant differences observed in the Visual Analog Scale scores at 12 and 24 h postsurgery between the two groups, with P > 0.05. The amount of morphine consumed in the 24 h following surgery was found to be significantly lower in Group A when compared to Group B. This difference was statistically significant, with P < 0.001.

Conclusion:
Intraoperative SHPB block after abdominal hysterectomy provides effective postoperative analgesia and reduces postoperative morphine consumption compared to placebo, with fewer incidences of opioid adverse effects.
The effect of nebulized heparin in the attenuation of coronavirus disease 2019-induced acute lung injury: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ismail Tarek I. , Bader Mohamed , Mahrous Rabab S.S. , Abulfatth Amr M. 
Published: July 2024

Background
Since the declaration of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) as a pandemic by the WHO in January 2020, efforts have been exerted by the scientific community to clarify the pathogenesis of severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus-induced acute lung injury. Corticosteroids, inhaled vasodilators, B2 agonists, surfactant therapy, antibiotics, and/or antiviral agents are used as a pharmacological treatment for acute respiratory distress syndrome. However, we studied whether prophylactic nebulized heparin could limit this form of lung injury.

Patients and methods
In all, 100 adult patients with COVID-19 suffering from moderate symptoms of the disease were randomized to prophylactic nebulized heparin (1000 IU/kg) every 6 h or placebo. The primary outcome of this study was the average daily ratio of partial pressure of PaO2 to FiO2 (P/F ratio), while the patient was on room air for 7 days. The secondary outcome was the levels of fibrin degradation products in the pulmonary lavage fluid measured at baseline and on study days 3 and 7 through minibronchoalveolar lavage (mini-BAL) fluid samples.

Results
We found nebulized heparin was accompanied by a better hypoxic index as it was linked to a lesser D-dimer change at the intermediate phase of the study (day 3). Moreover, nebulized heparin was not associated with bleeding complications.

Conclusion
In conclusion, prophylactic nebulized heparin may provide an adequate therapeutic approach in COVID-19 patients.