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BackgroundMarginal failure at the resin dentin interface promotes biofilm formation, which further leads to secondary caries and hypersensitivity. This likelihood also increases if residual bacteria are present following cavity preparation. In order to achieve a proper biological seal without jeopardizing bonding, efforts were made to functionalize the adhesive system with antibacterial activity. Aim and objectives: To appraise the antibacterial activity of a total-etch adhesive system against S. mutans with and without incorporation of antibiotics Vancomycin and Cefotaxime. Materials and MethodA commercially available 5th-generation total-etch bonding agent (Te-Econorm) was used. S. mutans broth had been standardized and streaked over Muller-Hinton agar culture medium and round wells about 6 mm in diameter were made in the centre of the agar plates. Each experimental group comprised 10 samples, which include: Group 1 - 30µg Cefotaxime, Group 2- 30µg Cefotaxime + Bonding agent, Group 3- 30µg Vancomycin, Group 4- 30µg Vancomycin + Bonding agent, Group 5- Bonding agent, and Group 6- No material. Inoculated culture plates were examined for the zone of inhibition after incubation at 37° C for 24 hours. ResultsThere was a significant difference in the mean diameter of zone of inhibition (p=0.000), with the maximum exhibited by Group 4, followed by Group 3 and Group 2. The least zone of inhibition was exhibited by Groups 1 and 5. The negative control showed no zone of inhibition. ConclusionThe combination of Vancomycin and bonding agent had superior antibacterial activity against S. mutans in comparison to cefotaxime and bonding agent.

In this study, we present a variational multiscale stabilized finite element method for steady-state incompressible fluid flow under magnetic forces. In particular, an algebraic approach of approximating the subscales has been considered, and then, the stabilization parameters are derived using Fourier analysis. The proposed scheme is used to trace the blood flow dynamics in complex arterial vessels under multiple pathological conditions. We examine the pressure and stress distribution in addition to the flow pattern to assess the criticality of the diseased condition.

Background: APOE-e4 is the strongest genetic risk factor for Alzheimer's disease. However, the influence of APOE-e4 on dietary fat intake and cognition has not been investigated. Objective: We aim to examine the association of types of dietary fat and their association to cognitive decline among those with and without the APOE-e4 allele. Methods: The study included 3,360 Chicago Health and Aging Project (CHAP) participants from four Southside Chicago communities. Global cognition was assessed using a composite score of episodic memory, perceptual speed, MMSE, and diet using a 144-item food frequency questionnaire. APOE genotype was assessed by the hME Sequenom mass-array platform. Longitudinal mixed-effect regression models were used to examine the association of dietary fat and the APOE-e4 allele with cognitive decline, adjusted for age, sex, education, smoking status, and calorie intake. Results: The present study involved 3,360 participants with a mean age of 74 at baseline, 62% African Americans, 63% females, and a mean follow-up of 7.8 years. Among participants with the APOE-e4 risk allele, higher intakes of total and saturated fat (SFA) were associated with a faster decline in global cognition. Among individuals with the APOE-e4 risk allele, a 5% increase in calories from SFA was associated with a 21% faster decline (β = −0.0197, P = 0.0038). In contrast, a higher intake of long-chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-n3 PUFA) was associated with a slower rate of decline in global cognition among APOE-e4 carriers. Specifically, for every 1% energy increment from LC-n3 PUFA, the annual rate of global cognitive decline was slower by 0.024 standardized unit (SD 0.010, P = 0.023), about 30.4% slower annual cognitive decline. Higher SFA or other types of dietary fat were not associated with cognitive decline among APOE-e4 non-carriers. Conclusions: Our study found a significant association between SFA and faster cognitive decline, LC-n3 PUFA and slower cognitive decline among those with the APOE-e4 allele. Our findings suggested that higher intake of SFA might contribute faster cognitive decline in combination with APOE-e4 whereas LC-n3 PUFA might compensate the adverse effects of APOE-e4. The interaction between intakes of different types of dietary fat and APOE-e4 on cognitive function warrants further research.

Abstract Background Little is known about how physical activity influences the relationship between neuroticism and cognitive function and cognitive decline. Methods Data from the Chicago Health and Aging Project (CHAP) was utilized to conduct this study. CHAP is a population-based cohort study of chronic conditions in older adults. Participants completed in-home interviews cycles of three years from 1993–2012. Mixed effects regression models were conducted to test the associations between physical activity, neuroticism, and the interaction between neuroticism and physical activity on outcomes: global cognitive function, global cognitive decline, episodic memory, decline in episodic memory, perceptual speed, and decline in perceptual speed. Stratified mixed effects regression models by physical activity level were conducted to test the associations between neuroticism and global cognitive function and global cognitive decline. Results A total of 7,685 participants were eligible for this study. Participants were 62% female and 64% African American. We found statistically significant associations for the interaction of high physical activity and neuroticism on baseline global cognitive function (β = 0.017 (SE = 0.007), p = .010) and on the interaction of neuroticism and high physical activity on baseline episodic memory (β = 0.020 (SE = .009), p = .021) and on decline in episodic memory over time (β = -0.003 (SE = .001), p = .039). Conclusion Higher physical activity lessened the association between higher neuroticism and poor cognitive outcomes.

The magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) Stokes equations have several applications in the field of biofluid dynamics. In the present study, we propose the staggered finite volume method (S-FVM) for MHD Stokes equations and establish its equivalence to a nonconforming finite element approximation. We also theoretically establish the convergence of the proposed S-FVM. The error estimation is carried out in an unstructured grid framework which is known for its flexibility and robustness in dealing with complex domains. The apriori estimate shows that the L2{L}_{2}-norm of the error for the pressure and velocity components is of order hh, the spacial grid size. After validating the numerical performance of the scheme against benchmark test cases, we do numerical simulations for the blood flow through an injured arteriole and analyze the influence of the magnetic force on hemodynamics in the arteriole under an injured condition.

Abstract Objective We aimed to determine whether combining white matter hyperintensity (WMH) with neurofilament light chain (NfL) could provide additional information for cognition in older adults. Methods Utilizing data from the population‐based Chicago Health and Aging Project, we studied 701 individuals with both biomarkers and cognitive data during the follow‐up period. NfL was measured using an ultrasensitive immunoassay, single‐molecule array technology. MRI scans of the brain were acquired using 1.5‐T systems. Global cognitive function was created as a composite measure of four neuropsychological tests, standardized and averaged to z‐scores. Multivariable linear mixed‐effects models were used to evaluate the association of WMH and NfL with the rate of cognitive decline. Results Higher WMH and NfL were associated with a faster rate of cognitive decline during the follow‐up; β‐coefficients (95%CIs) were −0.011 (−0.02, −0.001) and −0.010 (−0.017, −0.003), respectively. In individuals with lower concentration of NfL (i.e., bottom tertile), a higher WMH volume was associated with a faster cognitive decline (β: −0.030; 95%CI −0.046, −0.014). Similarly, in individuals with lower volumes of WMH (i.e., bottom tertile), a higher concentrations of NfL was associated with a faster cognitive decline (β: −0.023; 95%CI −0.042, −0.005). When we combined WMH with NfL, we noted a graded association with increasing volumes of WMH, particularly in people with lower NfL values. Interpretation While both biomarkers, WMH and NfL, were similarly associated with the annual rate of cognitive decline, our study suggests that they provide different underlying mechanisms affecting cognition.

Introduction: The orthodontic appliances have been known to accelerate enamel loss due to various reasons. Since there are few studies supporting the role of the nano-HAP in the mineralization of the demineralized tooth surfaces, the current study compared nano-HAP's capacity to remineralize the demineralized enamel layer surrounding braces at various concentration levels. Materials and Procedures: This investigation involved 60 healthy permanent premolars that had just been excised. All specimens had 3M-Unitek brackets glued to their buccal surfaces. The samples were artificially demineralized and divided into three groups. The control group, Toothpaste ApaCare, and ApaCareTM varnish. Before and after remineralization, selected samples from each group were analyzed using a “Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM)” and evaluated using “Energy Dispersive X-Ray Analysis (EDAX).” Spectrometer and profilometer were used for the study of surface and the color. Statistics were used to analyze the outcomes. The threshold for significance was fixed at 0.05. Results: After remineralization by nano-HAP, there was a significant rise (P < 0.001) in both calcium and phosphorus levels. This was picked up by EDAX, and SEM verified it. When compared to the control group, the nano-HAP application greatly improved the color measurements in the study groups (P < 0.001), and it also resulted in a significant decrease in surface roughness (P < 0.001). Conclusion: Our study's results showed that nano-HAP could be successful in restoring demineralized enamel around brackets, reducing the surface roughness and color of the enamel surface.

Background: COVID-19 caused havoc on the mankind. Post COVID-19 effects were also very painful. Post COVID-19 symptoms affected almost every organ system of the body not only physically, but also had a very profound effect on psyche of different individuals. We studied prevalence of anxiety and depression in post COVID-19 phase. Materials and methods: All patients attending various outpatient Departments, who had positive RTPCR for COVID-19, more than 3 months before the present symptoms, were included in this study. The patients were divided in two groups depending upon severity of the COVID-19 infection in past. Group-I patients were treated for COVID-19 on domiciliary basis while those required admission to hospital for treatment for COVID-19 were included in Group-II. Scoring system decided if the patient was normal or had anxiety or depression. Results: Both anxiety and depression were common in post COVID-19 phase. Group-II patients were affected more 38.65% (167 out of 432) as compared to only 10.13% (62 out of 612) of Group-I patients. Depression was seen in 52 out of 237 (22.94%) in males as compared to female 20 out of 195 (10.25%) in Group-II. Anxiety was also more common in males in Group-II, 62 out of 237 (26.18%) than females 33 out of 195 (16.92%). Conclusion: Both anxiety and depression were very common post COVID-19 infection. Hospitalized patients suffered more than those who had milder disease and were treated at home for COVID-19. Males suffered more than the females.

This research investigates the efficacy of integrated Pest management (IPM) techniques in cucumber cultivation, focusing at the utilization of natural control strategies to reduce pest-associated losses and improve crop productivity. No matter the growing emphasis on biological strategies, their adoption remains limited because of several challenges, including market pressures, regulatory hurdles, and pest resistance. But, through promoting awareness, expertise, and collaboration among organic and IPM communities, barriers to adoption may be overcome. The study underscores the importance of monetary useful resource for natural control and advocates for its integration into sustainable crop protection practices. Through a comparative evaluation of IPM and non-IPM farming processes, the studies highlight the fee implications and profitability of implementing biological control measures in cucumber production. Findings reveal that even as IPM farmers incur higher initial expenses, they reap advanced internet returns and benefit-cost ratios in comparison to non-IPM counterparts, demonstrating the monetary viability and sustainability of IPM strategies in cucumber farming.

Through a meta-heuristic framework, this study examines various wastewater treatment methods in detail and proposes a novel application of genetic algorithms (GAs) in plant optimization. ASM models are adapted to include ion speciation and pairing models, and microplastics (MPs) are challenged, indicating the need for further research. An integrated model accounts for carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, oxygen, and hydrogen, emphasizing pH’s crucial role in biological treatment processes by examining microbial growth rates and organic compound removal. By applying natural selection and evolutionary processes, GAs are investigated as an optimization tool for plants, improving gene sequence structures and, by extension, treatment processes. The importance of this is particularly evident when dealing with non-standard numerical solutions and algebraic calculations. A robust and adaptable wastewater treatment strategy that accommodates variable weather conditions is provided by the study, which illustrates GAs, their stopping conditions, and the selection process for fitness functions.

This study examines the difficulties in implementing sustainable building practices in the construction industry, with a particular emphasis on the lack of details and cost views as the main barriers. The Use of the material in concrete, combining environmental advantages as well as limitations, and utilizing recovered solid waste in geopolymer composites for sustainable building are all explored in this research. With regard to sustainable materials and technologies in the construction sector, the research studies provide a thorough overview that points the way for future investigation and implementation.

Glioma is the most devastating high-grade tumor of the central nervous system, with dismal prognosis. Existing treatment modality does not provide substantial benefit to patients and demands novel strategies. One of the first-line treatments for glioma, temozolomide, provides marginal benefit to glioma patients. Repurposing of existing non-cancer drugs to treat oncology patients is gaining momentum in recent years. In this study, we investigated the therapeutic benefits of combining three repurposed drugs, namely, metformin (anti-diabetic) and epigallocatechin gallate (green tea-derived antioxidant) together with temozolomide in a glioma-induced xenograft rat model. Our triple-drug combination therapy significantly inhibited tumor growth in vivo and increased the survival rate (50%) of rats when compared with individual or dual treatments. Molecular and cellular analyses revealed that our triple-drug cocktail treatment inhibited glioma tumor growth in rat model through ROS-mediated inactivation of PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, arrest of the cell cycle at G1 phase and induction of molecular mechanisms of caspases-dependent apoptosis.In addition, the docking analysis and quantum mechanics studies performed here hypothesize that the effect of triple-drug combination could have been attributed by their difference in molecular interactions, that maybe due to varying electrostatic potential. Thus, repurposing metformin and epigallocatechin gallate and concurrent administration with temozolomide would serve as a prospective therapy in glioma patients.

Women’s safety has always been an issue in the modern era. They endure lot of problems like sexual harassment, physical abuse and trafficking. These are the most alarming problems in society. All these problems show a very dangerous impact on women empowerment. So, to protect women from such assaults it is very important to find a solution. In this present research work, authors designed a women safety TARA wrist band, a self-defence device for women. TASER [Thomas A. Swift’s Electric Rifle] system is used in this device. This paper deals with the materials which are used in the device, battery, mechanical, thermal and physical analysis of the device. From this analysis, operating temperatures and the load conditions are analysed to manufacture a perfect women safety wristband. Fused Deposition Modelling 3D Printing technique is used for development of the prototype.

Pulse-tube refrigerators are considered as the mainstream elements in cryogenic plants. Normally, the efficacy of the inertance tube pulse tube refrigerator (ITPTR) is considered to be the highest among other pulse-tube refrigerators. In the current study, the mechanical performance of ITPTR system is numerically investigated to identify the impact of compressor frequency. The finite volume approach (FVM) is utilized to model the whole ITPTR with the specified boundary conditions using a commercial program ANSYS. The modelled ITPTR includes an inertance tube, reservoir, pulse-tube, cold heat exchangers, after cooler, regenerator, compressor and hot heat exchangers. These coupled systems that are simulated in a steady-state to reveal the performance and cooling rate. It has been discovered that the compressor’s frequency has a significant impact on the ITPTR’s performance and cooling rate. In four distinct ways, the compressor’s frequency has been changed from 10 Hz to 100 Hz. When the compressor runs at 20 Hz, the rate of cooling is determined to be at its highest.

In the realm of advanced materials, Intermetallic Matrix Composites (IMCs) have garnered significant attention due to their potential for high-temperature applications. This study systematically investigates the influence of various processing parameters on the microstructure and mechanical properties of IMCs. Utilizing a combination of powder metallurgy and subsequent heat treatments, samples were prepared under varied conditions. The microstructural evolution was meticulously examined using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), revealing distinct morphological changes as a function of processing parameters. Quantitative analysis demonstrated a direct correlation between processing conditions and the distribution, size, and morphology of the reinforcing phases. Mechanical testing, including tensile, compression, and hardness tests, was conducted to evaluate the resultant properties. The findings indicate that specific processing conditions can be optimized to achieve a desirable balance between ductility and strength. Notably, a unique set of parameters was identified that yielded an unprecedented combination of high strength and ductility, challenging the conventional trade-off paradigm in composite materials. This research underscores the critical role of processing in tailoring the microstructure and, consequently, the mechanical performance of IMCs, paving the way for their application in demanding environments.

In the Gudivada region, surface and ground water are important sources for drinking, agriculture, and aquaculture. The environment and human health gets depleted as the water and groundwater become contaminated as a result of man-made activities. The objective of this study is to provide a brief overview of the environmental impact of aquaculture as well as an assessment of ground water quality in the Gudivada Krishna District of Andhra Pradesh. Aquaculture activities have a substantial physical, chemical, and biological influence on water supplies. Physical pressure is exerted on the water; chemically, the water and land are polluted; and biologically, foreign species, infections, and diseases are introduced. For daily change activities, these aquaculture ponds require the mixing of bore-well or creek waters with fresh water; as a result of this practise, the upstream ponds discharging the polluted water into the channels, and the downstream ponds are utilising the same. This is attributed to increase of pollution in the aquatic environment. Over exploitation of water also leads to salt water intrusion, usage of ground water and conversion of land use to aquaculture. Pollution, damage of delicate coastal ecosystems, dangers to aquatic biodiversity, and significant socioeconomic costs are all factors to consider. Change in land distribution data over a period of 2005 to 2021 is collected and water quality parameters are collected and water quality index is assessed at three locations of gudivada region.

The review study is to investigate the possibility of utilizing industrial waste materials as a strengthening component in the manufacturing of metal-matrix composites (MMCs) and assess the associated environmental benefits. The study focused on examining two distinct sets of waste materials: metal matrix composites that were reinforced with fly ash, and composites produced from different kinds of industrial waste materials. Technical and property-related data were reviewed to evaluate the potential of these waste materials in MMC production. The study results indicated that fly ash-reinforced metal-matrix composites exhibited exceptional physical and mechanical properties, which make them well-suited for various applications, particularly in the automotive sector. The research highlights the necessity for further studies to innovate advanced materials with improved properties while mitigating environmental pollution. Overall, the research demonstrates the potential of utilizing industrial waste materials as reinforcement in MMC production and underscores the importance of this approach for the future development of advanced materials.

Ankur K Shrivastava, Pranayee Behera, Rajaram Kacher, Binod KumarDepartment of Ophthalmology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Raipur, IndiaCorrespondence: Ankur K ShrivastavaDepartment of Ophthalmology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Flat No 603, Type 5A, AIIMS residential complex, Kabir Nagar, Raipur, Chhattisgarh 492099, IndiaTel +91 971 310 0777Email shrivastavadrankur@gmail.comPurpose: This study aimed to evaluate whether different anterior chamber depth (ACD) affects the predictive accuracy of intraocular lens formulas in eyes with axial length (AL) less than 22 mm.Methods: Eighty-five eyes of 85 patients with AL less than 22 mm were included in this retrospective study, which were divided into three groups: Group 1, ACD less than 2.4 mm; Group 2, ACD between 2.4 and 2.9 mm; and Group 3, ACD greater than 2.9 mm. Optical biometry with partial coherence interferometry was performed in all cases. The median absolute error (MedAE) was compared by Friedman’s test, using the optimized lens constant, among seven formulas (Barrett Universal II, Haigis, Hill-RBF, Hoffer Q, Holladay 1, Holladay 2, and SRK/T) in each group.Results: Friedman’s test showed no significant difference in MedAE among all formulas in Groups 1 and 3. However, as the Haigis formula had the highest MedAE and lowest percentage of eyes within ±0.25 Diopter, it is least preferred in Group 1. On the contrary, in Group 3 it fared the best, having the least MedAE and highest percentage of eyes within ±0.25 Diopter. In Group 2, Friedman’s test gave significant difference, and post-hoc analysis showed statistical superiority of Haigis over the Holladay 1 (p=0.02), Holladay 2 (p=0.01), Hill-RBF (p=0.04), and SRK/T (p=0.02) formulas. However, there was no statistical difference between the Barrett Universal II, Haigis, and Hoffer Q formulas.Conclusion: Considering the ACD in eyes with AL less than 22 mm, Haigis is the preferred formula while SRK/T proved to be the worst formula in Groups 2 and 3.Keywords: short axial length, optical biometry, anterior chamber depth, intraocular lens formulas, optimized lens constant

BCZT (Ba0.85Ca0.15Zr0.1Ti0.9O3) is a recent class of lead-free ferroelectric material associated with high piezoelectric coefficient, making it suitable to inspire hydroxyapatite (HA)-BCZT ceramics for bone materials. Nano-crystalline hydroxyapatite (HA) synthesized using the hydrothermal route was characterized via FT-IR, Raman spectroscopy, X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). We also rationalized its formation as a function of operating conditions such as dwell time and temperature in this route. The nano-crystalline BCZT powder was synthesized via a sol-gel technique and its structural and morphological characterization were carried out using Raman Spectroscopy, XRD and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). These investigations facilitated the optimization of HA-BCZT compositions and their electrical poling conditions to achieve enhanced piezoelectric effect. The composites (HA-BCZT) sintered at 1350∘C exhibited promising piezoelectric properties. We report the enhanced piezoelectric coefficient (d33) of 7±1 pC/N for 50% HA-BCZT which is significant as compared to that reported in the literature for ~98% BT (barium titanate) -HA composites. We highlight the role of Simulated Body Fluid (SBF) on the intriguing phase-change of Tricalcium Phosphate (TCP) obtained at this sintering temperature, to hydroxyapatite for its essential contribution to promote bone growth. We theoretically support the confirmed in vitro biocompatibility of these composites.

Adherence to Mediterranean-DASH Diet Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay (MIND) may lower the risk of dementia by impacting immunity and cholesterol, which are pathways also implicated by genome-wide association studies of Alzheimer’s Dementia (AD). We examined whether adherence to the MIND diet could modify the association of genetic risk for AD with incident dementia. We used three ongoing US cohorts: Chicago Health and Aging Project (CHAP, n = 2449), Rush Memory and Aging Project (MAP, n = 725), and Women’s Health Initiative Memory Study (WHIMS, n = 5308). Diagnosis of dementia was based on clinical neurological examination and standardized criteria. Repeated measures of global cognitive function were available in MAP and CHAP. Self-reported adherence to MIND was estimated using food-frequency questionnaires. Global and pathway-specific genetic scores (GS) for AD were derived. Cox proportional hazard, logistic regression, and mixed models were used to examine associations of MIND, GS, and GS-MIND interactions with incident dementia and cognitive decline. Higher adherence to MIND and lower GS were associated with a lower risk of dementia in MAP and WHIMS and a slower rate of cognitive decline in MAP (p < 0.05). MIND or GS were not associated with incident dementia or cognitive decline in CHAP. No gene–diet interaction was replicated across cohorts. Genetic risk and MIND adherence are independently associated with dementia among older US men and women.

Author(s): Deepak Menon (corresponding author) [1]; Priyanka Chakkera [1]; Shreyashi Jha [2]; B Pradeep Kumar [1]; JSS Anjusha [1]; M Chandra Sena [3]; Shilpa Rao [4]; Faheem Arshad [1]; Saraswati [...]

Abstract ᅟ The Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire (MEQ) and Munich ChronoType Questionnaire (MCTQ) are sometimes used to estimate circadian timing. However, it remains unclear if they can reflect a change in circadian timing after a light treatment. In this study, 31 participants (25–68 years) completed both questionnaires before and after a 13–28 day morning light treatment. The dim light melatonin onset (DLMO), a physiological marker of circadian timing, was also assessed in a subsample of 16 participants. The DLMO phase advanced on average by 47 min (p

Abdi A Gele,1–3 Mohamed Yusuf Ahmed,4 Prabhjot Kour,2 Sadiyo Ali Moallim,5 Abdulwahab Moallim Salad,3 Bernadette Kumar2 1Institute of Nursing and Health Promotion, Department of Health, Oslo and Akershus University College of Applied Science, 2Department for Research, Norwegian Centre for Minority Health Research, Oslo, Norway; 3Center for Health Research, Somali National University, 4Department of Business Management, Simad University, 5Faculty of Medicine, Benadir University, Mogadishu, Somalia Background: In 2005, the World Health Conference called for all nations to move toward universal health coverage, which is defined as “access to adequate health care for all at an affordable price”. Despite this, an estimated 90% of Somalia’s largely impoverished population use private health care. Therefore, considering that the private health care system is the dominant health care system in Mogadishu, Somalia, exploring the accessibility to, as well as people’s trust in, the private sector is essential to help contribute an equitable and affordable health care system in the country.Methods: A qualitative study using unstructured interviews was conducted in Mogadishu from August to November of 2016. A purposive sampling approach was used to recruit 23 participants, including seven medical doctors who own private health centers, eight patients, five medical students and three senior officials who work for the Ministry of Health. Data were analyzed using a thematic analysis.Results: Our findings show that the private health care system in Mogadishu is not only unregulated but also expensive, with the cost of health care often unaffordable for the majority of the country’s citizens. There is evidence of prescription of inappropriate treatment, tendency to conduct unnecessary laboratory tests, excessive use of higher diagnostic technologies and overcharging – including the widespread practice of further appointments for follow-up – which inflates the costs. The study also found poor patient–provider relationship and widespread distrust of the private health care system.Conclusion: The study findings underline the need for the Somali government to develop regulatory mechanisms and guidelines with the potential to guide the private health care sector to provide equitable and affordable health care to people in Mogadishu. The doctor–patient relationship has been – and remains – a keystone of care; thus, there is an urgent need for guidelines for private health care providers to treat their patients with dignity and respect. The education system, particularly the syllabus used by medical faculties, should be reviewed and improved to provide medical students with necessary knowledge, skills and attitudes to maintain patient dignity and rights. Keywords: Somalia, private health care, user fees, dignified care

Abdi A Gele,1,2 Samera A Qureshi,1 Prabhjot Kour,1 Bernadette Kumar,1 Esperanza Diaz1,3 1Norwegian Center for Minority Health Research, 2Department of Health, Institute of Nursing and Health Promotion, Oslo and Akershus University College, Oslo; 3Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway Abstract: Norway has a low incidence and mortality rate of cervical cancer, which is mainly due to the high participation rate of women in cervical cancer screening. However, the attendance of cervical cancer screening was reported to be low among immigrant women. For this reason, we conducted a qualitative study to obtain better insight into perceived barriers and challenges to cervical cancer screening among Somali and Pakistani women in the Oslo region. A convenient sample of 35 (18 Pakistani, 17 Somali) women were recruited for the study in collaboration with Somali and Pakistani community partners. Focus group discussions were used to explore barriers and facilitators to cervical cancer screening, whereas the Ecological Model was used as the framework for the study. The study found three levels of barriers to cervical cancer screening. The individual level included a lack of understanding of the benefits of the screening. The sociocultural level included the stigma attached to the disease and the belief that women who are unmarried are sexually inactive. The system-related level included a lack of trust toward the health care system. Based on the study results, and using a common denominator approach for the immigrant groups included, the study recommends three communication strategies with the potential to improve women’s participation in cervical cancer screening: 1) in-person communication and information material at health centers; 2) verbal communication with women through seminars and workshops to educate them about their risk of cancer and the importance of screening and 3) the initiation of better recall through SMS and letters written in native languages. Finally, an intervention study that compares the aforementioned strategies and proves their effectiveness in increasing immigrant women’s participation in cervical cancer screening is recommended. Keywords: cervical cancer, immigrant women, Somali and Pakistani women, preventive health

Introduction: Cortical bony morphology is influenced by force applications and stresses and strains produced by functional load of associated muscles of mastication. Also, Facial Growth Pattern is related to muscular function and there is a relationship between cortical bone thickness and facial divergence. Aim: To compare the thickness of cortical bone and interradicular distance in both the jaws among hypo divergent, hyper divergent and normal facial growth pattern. Materials and Methods: Total 45 individuals classified into hyper divergent, hypo divergent and normal facial growth pattern were selected for the study. Three-Dimensional Volumetric Tomography (DVT) scan was conducted for both the jaws and 3-DVT images were generated for each patient by using digital software, curved slicing images with sections of 76 μm thickness were chosen for measurements. The images were oriented in three planes of space so that the inter-radicular space and buccal cortical plates could be measured from the Cemento Enamel Junction (CEJ). One-way ANOVA test was used to analyse the data with statistical significance considered at a p-value lower than 0.05 at 95% confidence interval. Results: The average cortical bone thickness in hypo, hyper and normal facial divergent pattern was 1.16 to 1.5 mm, 0.92 to 1.28 mm and 0.96 to 1.5 mm respectively in maxilla whereas it was 1.48 to 2.82 mm, 1.14 to 2.30 mm and 1.24 to 2.62 mm respectively in mandible. The average inter-radicular space in hypo, hyper and normal divergent facial profile ranged from 1.7 to 4.32 mm,1.62 to 4.06 mm and 1.36 to 3.7 mm respectively in maxilla and 1.66 to 4.5 mm,1.52 to 4.32 mm and 1.86 to 3.4 mm respectively in mandible. Conclusion: Findings of the present study suggests that cortical bone thickness in the maxilla and mandible variably increases from anterior to posterior in different levels and mandibular cortical bone is thicker than maxillary cortical bone in all facial growth pattern individuals.