bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Ultrastructural Changes of Synapses in the Hippocampus of Sprague Dawley Rat Brain following Exposure to Naphthalene Balls
Authors: Angu Bala Ganesh Koduvai S. V. , Soman Sharath , Reginald Sharon Roshin , Yamunadevi Andamuthu , Yadav Omnath P. 
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Introduction:
The synaptic contacts play an important role in central nervous system (CNS) functioning. Ultrastructural features of synapses in CNS are not studied in naphthalene neurotoxicity model.

Materials and Methodology:
In the present work, transmission electron microscopy was used for studying the ultrastructural features of synapses in the hippocampus of Sprague Dawley rat brain, on subsequent exposure to naphthalene balls. The ultrastructural changes were observed for naphthalene low dose (200 mg), high dose (400 mg) after the treatment for 28 days, and post-delayed toxicity phase after 14 days in Sprague Dawley rats.

Results:
In comparison with different groups of naphthalene exposure including control and satellite, axon degeneration, axonal demyelination and abnormal synapses was observed in high dose naphthalene administration group. In the post-delayed naphthalene toxicity group, degeneration of synaptic contacts was observed.

Conclusions:
This exploration of ultrastructural variations in the synapses of Hippocampus gives information that will be valued in naphthalene neurotoxicological research.
Evaluation of Lingual Foramen in the South Indian Population Using Cone-Beam Computed Tomography: A Prospective Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: DevaThambi T. Jones Raja , Aswath Nalini 
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:
Surgical procedures in the anterior mandibular region require a profound understanding of the complex anatomical structures to ensure patient safety. The lingual foramen (LF) and its intra-osseous canal are pivotal structures, supplying vascular and neural support to the mental region. The prevalence of LF is widely recognized, with variations among populations.

Methods:
The study involved 650 adult participants. Data were collected using high-resolution cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), and statistical analysis was conducted, establishing inter-rater agreement.

Results:
The population had a varied age distribution, with males comprising 53.23% and females comprising 46.77%. The median lingual canal was found in the Supra and Infra spinosum (65.38%). Most participants had lateral lingual canals (60.92%). The most prevalent lingual foramina was 4 (30.62%). The study found no significant associations between gender and LF diameter, distribution in different travel directions, or LF locations. However, males had a slightly larger diameter.

Conclusion:
The findings provide valuable insights into LF variations based on anatomical locations, and there were no statistically significant differences in measurements across different age groups. This knowledge contributes to the evolving field of oral and maxillofacial surgery, ensuring better patient outcomes.
The GC-MS Analysis of Kabasura Kudineer: A Vital Siddha Drug in COVID-19 Therapy
Authors: Sudhan Aparna , Prabhu K , Jones Sumathi , Balakrishnan Deepalakkshmi , Muttevi Hayagreva Kumar , Kalaivannan J 
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Introduction:
This study focuses on the gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis of Kabasura Kudineer, a Siddha formulation renowned for its properties against cold and exclusively utilized during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

Methods:
The medication was obtained from a reputable Siddha vendor in Chennai, India, and subsequently extracted and subjected to GC-MS analysis.

Results:
The GC-MS profiling revealed the presence of several molecules, including benzoic acid, eugenol, alpha-ylangeneol, trans-2,4-dimethylthiane, S, S-dioxide, humulene, methyl 4,7,10,13-hexadecatetraenoate, 17-octadecynoic acid, 1-hexadecyn-3-ol, 3,7,11,15-tetramethyl, sulfurous acid, butyl heptadecyl ester, chloroacetic acid, tetradecyl ester, n-propyl cinnamate, oleyl alcohol, trifluoroacetate, 1-heptatriacotanol, and fenretinide. These compounds exhibit expansive medicinal roles.

Conclusion:
Kabasura Kudineer emerges as a highly effective remedy for cold-related ailments, particularly owing to the presence of bioactive compounds such as eugenol and humulene. These constituents play pivotal roles in antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities. Further investigations into the individual medicinal efficacy of each identified molecule are warranted to substantiate the therapeutic potential of Kabasura Kudineer, providing valuable insights for future applications.
Canal-Centering and Apical Transportation Ability of Similar Cross-Section NiTi Instruments Working with Different Kinematics—Micro-CT-based In Vitro Analysis
Authors: Shareef Mohammed S. , Reddy Smitha , Habeeb Aisha , Singh Thakur Veerandar , Firdaus Tamanna , Bhattacharjee Priyendu 
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Objective:
Evaluating the canal-centering and apical transportation ability of endodontic file systems working with different kinematics but of similar cross section.

Materials and Methods:
Sixty human maxillary first molar mesiobuccal (MB) roots were assigned to three experimental groups based on instrumentation techniques: Reciproc Blue (RB), Mtwo (M2), and OneShape (OS). Pre- and post-instrumentation micro-computed tomographic analysis was performed. Centering ability and apical transportation were analyzed at 3 mm, 6 mm, and 9 mm short of the apex. Statistical analysis was conducted using Mann–Whitney U test and Kruskal–Wallis test.

Results:
OS showed better canal-centering ability than RB and M2 at 3 mm, 6 mm, and 9 mm. No significant difference among the tested groups was observed during the assessment of apical transportation (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:
The systems evaluated safely prepared curved MB canals with minimal canal transportation. OS showed superior canal-centering ability compared to the other two groups.
A Pharmacy-Based Cross-Sectional Study to Assess the Antibiotic Prescription Pattern by Medical and Dental Practitioners in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Almutairi Waleed , Alrasheed Ali S. , Alaglan Yasir K. , Aleyeoni Saleh , Almogbel Abdulmajeed 
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Introduction:
The misuse and overuse of antibiotics in dental practice are well known and have become widespread worldwide. Its potential effect and high risk of serious reaction have emphasized the need to reduce and limit the precipitation. In this study we aimed to identify the prevalence, type, dose, and duration of antibiotics prescribed by general medical and dental practitioners in Saudi Arabia.

Materials and Methods:
This cross-sectional study was performed from April 2020 to December 2020. A total of 45,100 antibiotic prescriptions were collected from different governmental and private pharmacies and screened to be included in this study. Data extraction from all prescriptions followed a standardized form that included the following information: Doctor specialty, type of antibiotic, duration, and dose of antibiotic.

Results:
A total of 38,175 antibiotic prescriptions prescribed by licensed doctors practicing in governmental or private hospitals were included in this study. Thirty-five thousand one hundred and seventy-eight (92%) outpatient antibiotics were prescribed by medical practitioners, and 2997 (8%) antibiotics were prescribed by dentists. The most commonly prescribed antibiotic was Augmentin (60%), followed by metronidazole and amoxicillin (35%). The most common dose and duration prescribed by dentists for Augmentin was 625 mg, 3 times per day for 5 days, whereas that of metronidazole was 500 mg, 3 times per day for 7 days. Prescribed dose and duration of amoxicillin was 500 mg, 3 times per day for 7 days.

Conclusions:
This study helps in understanding healthcare practitioners’ patterns and adds to the knowledge on how to deal with odontogenic infections. Further national studies are recommended to include more regions in Saudi Arabia and to illustrate the misuse of outpatient antibiotics.
Pharmacological Effect of In Vitro Antioxidant Property and Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles (AgNPs) Utilizing Murraya koenigii Antibacterial Application
Authors: Vinyagamoorthy Sneha , Sivalingam Azhagu Madhavan , Alex Arockia , Brahma Neha 
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:
Nonessential heavy metals pose a significant threat to human health due to their toxicity. Mercury, in particular, is identified as a hazardous metal. The study aims to detect mercury using colorimetric analysis with Murraya koenigii, emphasizing the eco-friendliness of the method.

Aims and Objectives:
The primary objective is to detect mercury using a colorimetric analysis method employing Murraya koenigii. Additionally, the study aims to investigate the eco-friendliness of this detection method.

Materials and Methods:
Colorimetric analysis was conducted using Murraya koenigii to detect mercury. Ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy was employed to detect the formation of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), with a characteristic surface plasmon resonance (SPR) band observed. X-ray diffraction (XRD) data analysis was performed to determine the crystalline nature and size of AgNPs. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was utilized to visualize the morphology of AgNPs. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was employed to identify functional groups involved in reducing silver ions. Antibacterial properties of synthesized AgNPs were tested against various microorganisms, including Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus mutans, and Enterococcus faecalis.

Results:
Mercury was successfully detected using colorimetric analysis with Murraya koenigii. Formation of AgNPs was confirmed by UV-vis spectroscopy, with a characteristic SPR band at 418 nm. AgNPs were found to be crystalline with an average size of 5.20 nm, as determined by XRD analysis. SEM images revealed spherical and polycrystalline AgNPs. FTIR spectra indicated the involvement of the -OH group of compounds in the extract in reducing silver ions. Synthesized AgNPs exhibited antibacterial properties against various microorganisms.

Conclusion:
A sustainable and eco-friendly method for synthesizing AgNPs using Murraya koenigii extract was successfully developed. This method not only detected mercury but also demonstrated antibacterial properties against various microorganisms. The study underscores the health implications of nonessential heavy metals, emphasizing the importance of eco-friendly detection and mitigation methods.
Elucidating the Role of Pelargonidin-3-O-Glucoside on C1QL3, CYBB, and CYTIP Involved in Glucose Metabolism: An In Silico Approach
Authors: Krishna Aravind , Renu Kaviyarasi 
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Aim:
The metabolism of glucose is carefully regulated by several chemical elements and plays a critical part in preserving cellular energy balance. Our study investigates possible connections between the essential proteins CYTIP, C1QL3, and CYBB, which are involved in the metabolism of glucose, and pelargonidin, a naturally occurring plant chemical. The underlying mechanisms of pelargonidin’s anti-diabetic effects are still unknown.

Materials and Methods:
We examine the binding affinities and possible binding sites between pelargonidin and C1QL3/CYBB AND CYTIP using molecular docking simulations. The results demonstrate favorable docking scores and potential binding sites, suggesting the formation of stable complexes between pelargonidin and the target proteins.

Results:
This finding means that pelargonidin may modulate the function of C1QL3 and CYBB, CYTIP consequently influencing glucose metabolism.

Conclusion:
This study provides a foundation for future experimental investigations to validate the predicted interactions and explore the mechanisms through which pelargonidin affects glucose metabolism. Understanding these molecular interactions could lead to the development of new therapeutic strategies for glucose metabolism and its related disorders.
Retrospective Case Study on the Evaluation of Inflammatory Markers, Macrophage Inhibitory Protein-1α and Interferon-γ in Sleep Deprivation Condition
Authors: Visallini T.S. , Parameswari R.P. 
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim:
Sleep is an important physiological process that is necessary for the normal functioning of the body. Sleep greatly affects all aspects of our body, including the immune pathways or immune response system of our body, which plays a determinant role in the development and progression of chronic inflammatory diseases. In this study, we worked to find the relation between sleep deprivation and levels of pro-inflammatory markers macrophage inflammatory protein 1-alpha (MIP-1α) and interferon gamma (IFN-γ). To find the relation between sleep deprivation and levels of pro-inflammatory markers MIP-1α and IFN-γ.

Objective:
To find the relation between sleep deprivation and levels of pro-inflammatory markers MIP-1α and IFN-γ.

Materials and Methods:
The study was conducted with 40 individuals as participants, of which 20 were sleep-deprived (SD), and 20 had adequate amounts of sleep. The sleep duration details of the individuals were obtained by questionnaire. Blood was withdrawn from all the subjects after due consent from them. Plasma was separated and was used to evaluate their MIP-1α levels and IFN-γ levels.

Results:
The MIP-1α levels and levels of IFN-γ were found to be significantly elevated in the SD individuals than that of individuals who had adequate sleep.

Conclusion:
Sleep loss and sleep deprivation are associated with altered expressions of key regulatory factors and upregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines production. Thus, sleep deprivation can be considered to be one of the major contributors to the development and progression of various chronic inflammatory diseases.
Awareness of Side Effects of Corticosteroids among Users and Nonusers in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al-Jabr Khalid H. , Alhumaidan Lama Saleh , Alghamdi Abdullrahman A. , Almutairi Meshari Sanad L. , Alsubaihi Abdulrahman Abdullah , Alrasheedi Sami M. , Alkhdairi Ahmad , Alzweihary Ali M , Alrasheedi Majed Swailem , Alrasheedi Khaled Ali Mohammed , Alrashdi Mousa Nasser 
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:
Corticosteroids are anti-inflammatory medications that are used to reduce inflammation and inhibit the immune system in a variety of disorders, including allergies, asthma, systemic lupus erythematous, eczema, inflammatory bowel disease, and swollen joints or muscles. The goal of this study was to assess the level of awareness and sources of information about the side effects of corticosteroids among the general population in Saudi Arabia.

Methods:
This observational cross-sectional study was conducted in Saudi Arabia using an electronic questionnaire. A non-probability convenience sampling technique was used. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) was used for data analysis.

Results:
The study included 755 participants from Saudi Arabia (67.3% females and 32.7% males). Around 26.8% reported using corticosteroids, and 73.9% were aware of the side effects of glucocorticoids. Among steroid users (202 participants), the most common conditions were allergies (36.1%), asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (21.8%), and skin diseases (27.7%). The majority of respondents (57.9%) used steroids for less than 2 weeks, and topical application (52.5%) was the most common form. Only 30.7% received information about side effects at the time of prescription. The most reported side effects were truncal obesity, moon face, skin thinning, bruising, and slower wound healing.

Conclusion:
This study highlights the importance of promoting awareness and knowledge regarding the side effects of corticosteroids in Saudi Arabia. While overall awareness levels were relatively satisfactory, specific side effects require further attention in educational efforts.
Evaluation of Interstitial Fibrosis and Tubular Atrophy (IFTA) in Renal Allograft Biopsies:- Comparison of Visual Analysis with Morphometric Quantification and its Correlation with Renal Function
Authors: Paliwal Gourang , Kritya Mangesh , Prakash Sudeep , Kashif Ahmed Waheed , Sahu Rajesh 
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Introduction:
With the increase in number of allografts being performed, the frequency of chronic allograft nephropathy (CAN) has also increased. It is characterized clinically by a progressive decline in glomerular filtration rate, and histologically, by a progressive interstitial fibrosis (IF) and tubular atrophy (TA) which can even be seen in recipients with good allograft function.

Objectives:
To compare visual analysis with morphometric quantification of interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy (IFTA) in renal allograft biopsies and its correlation with renal function.

Materials and Methods:
A total of 29 renal allograft biopsies were evaluated for fibrosis and tubular atrophy by light microscopy by visual method on Masson’s trichrome-stained and PAS-stained sections, respectively, as well as by computer-assisted morphometry. IFTA was graded as per Banff working classification of renal allograft pathology, which includes a four-point estimate of the prevalence of IF (ci score) and for tubular atrophy (ct score). The estimation of IF and TA by the two methods was correlated with the renal function state; the serum creatinine level.

Result:
The percentage of IFTA showed statistically significant correlation between manual and morphometric methods (P < 0.001). Each of the method was correlated with serum creatinine level. IF showed a good correlation with serum creatinine by both the methods; however, no correlation could be established between TA and serum creatinine by either method.

Conclusion:
When calculating scoring IFTA as per Banff criteria, by either the visual method or the morphometric method, there was a significant correlation between the two methods. However when expressed only as a percentage of total area, the visual method was associated with slight overestimation of both the parameters.
Carbapenem Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii: Current Status of Problem in a Tertiary Care Hospital, Jaipur
Authors: Rajni Ekadashi , Kataria Shaveta , Garg Vishnu , Jorwal Ayushi , Bacchani Daisy , Sharma Richa 
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:
Carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB) is a serious global health challenge. It is increasingly associated with nosocomial infections and outbreaks in healthcare facilities. This study was conducted in a tertiary care teaching hospital in Jaipur to quantitate the burden of CRAB in our setup, examine the clinico-epidemiological profile of patients infected with this bug, and determine their antibiotic susceptibility pattern.

Methods:
Clinical specimens collected from patients admitted in various wards and ICUs were processed. Bacterial identification and susceptibility testing were done using standard laboratory techniques and VITEK 2 automated system. Only one isolate per patient was included for study purposes. The data on the sociodemographic and epidemiological profile was collected and analyzed statistically.

Results:
A total of 4897 clinical samples were received in the department of microbiology during the study period, out of which 1517 exhibited significant growth, sample positivity rate being 31%. Acinetobacter baumannii was the third most common gram-negative isolate (228/1067; 21.3%). Out of the total 228 A. baumannii isolates, 221 (97%) were carbapenem resistant. The maximum number of CRAB isolates were obtained from endotracheal secretions (103), followed by blood (59). All patients were critically ill and needed intensive care. The antibiotic susceptibility testing of these clinical isolates revealed a high level of resistance (99%) against ceftazidime, meropenem, and imipenem with the least resistance against colistin (2%) and tigecycline (9%).

Conclusions:
CRAB is an important global pathogen contributing to increased morbidity and mortality in hospitalized patients. Viable treatment options that may be used with success against bugs include minocycline, tigecycline, and polymyxins.
Prevalence of Thrombotic Microangiopathy Among Patients With Snake Bite-Induced Hemotoxic Clinical Syndrome in the Hills of Himachal Pradesh, India
Authors: Ihsan Haseeb , Raina Sujeet , Raina Rashmi K. , Sharma Rajesh 
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Objective:
Snakebite envenomation-related thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) is observed in a subset of patients with venom-induced consumption coagulopathy (VICC). The study was planned to determine the prevalence of TMA among patients with hemotoxic envenomation admitted to a medical college hospital in Himachal Pradesh, India.

Methods:
This was a hospital-based open cohort observational study conducted on patients diagnosed with hemotoxic envenomation. The study period was of 1 year and patients were recruited using a nonprobability sampling method. Hemotoxic envenomation was defined as prolonged bedside 20-min whole blood clotting time (20 WBCT) following a history of snake bites. TMA was defined as the triad of microangiopathic hemolytic anemia (MAHA), thrombocytopenia, and acute kidney injury (AKI).

Results:
A total of 56 patients (32 females and 24 males) were included in the study. The prevalence of TMA was (7/56) 12.5%. Out of the seven patients with TMA, four (57.1%) patients improved without renal replacement therapy and three (42.9%) patients took referrals for getting nephrology services outside the state and hence were lost in follow-up. AKI was developed in 17 (30%) patients.

Conclusion:
The study demonstrated that TMA is not an uncommon entity. Investigation protocol for TMA should be included in all patients with VICC.
Ultrasound-Guided Thoracolumbar Interfascial Plane Block with and Without Dexamethasone: A Comparative Study in Patients Undergoing Lumbar Spine Surgeries
Authors: Tarigonda Sumanth , Papireddy Sujatha M. , Senthamarai Shrieaswari , Voleti Vishnuvardhan , Srinivasa Manohar 
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:
Thoracolumbar interfascial plane (TLIP) block is a novel regional anesthetic technique that can provide effective postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing lumbar spine surgeries. This block targets the dorsal rami of thoracolumbar nerves as they pass through the paraspinal muscles. Multilevel spine surgeries are often prolonged, requiring extended duration of postoperative analgesia.

Objective:
To compare the duration and quality of postoperative analgesia of TLIP block when given with and without dexamethasone as an additive to bupivacaine.

Methodology:
This was a prospective, double-blinded randomized study done on 20 patients undergoing two- or three-level lumbar spine surgeries. Ten patients in group C received 20 ml of 0.25% bupivacaine alone, whereas 10 patients in Group D received 8 mg dexamethasone along with 20 ml of bupivacaine for TLIP block before skin incision. Time for first analgesic request and pain scores using Wong–Baker Faces Pain Rating Scale were measured postoperatively.

Results:
The mean duration of sensory block was longer in group D when compared to group C (502.00 ± 95.13 vs. 383.5 ± 54.53 min with a P value of 0.001). The amount of rescue analgesic requirement was also higher in group C compared to group D.

Conclusion:
Dexamethasone, as an additive to bupivacaine, prolongs the duration and improves the quality of TLIP block for lumbar spine surgeries.