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INTRODUCTION: Advances in composite resins have changed the way restorative dentistry is now performed. The objective of restorative dentistry is to replace lost hard tissue with restorative material that has a good prognosis and longevity. In spite of the great improvements in the field of adhesive dentistry, hybridization of caries-affected dentin has been broadly avoided by clinicians and researchers. The loss of mineral content during a caries process is further compounded by action of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) on collagen of dentin. Recently, inhibition of MMPs has been the focus of research. OBJECTIVES: To compare the effect of MMP inhibitors on the bond strength of healthy dentin and caries-affected dentin. MMP inhibitors selected for this study were grape seed extract and riboflavin. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Thirty-six extracted teeth were divided into two groups: healthy dentin and caries-affected dentin (CAD). Samples were grounded to expose dentinal surfaces. CAD samples were exposed to 10% citric acid for 5 minutes to simulate caries. The exposed dentinal surfaces of samples in each group were then treated, either with grape seed extract or riboflavin, followed by application of eighth-generation bonding agent and restoration with a composite resin, standardized to a specific height and diameter. This assembly was then subjected to testing in a universal testing machine to evaluate tensile bond strength (TBS) of adhesive layers. RESULTS: The average TBS of healthy dentin treated with grape seed extract was found to be the highest (34.28 MPa) amongst the groups. The lowest TBS was found in the group with caries-affected dentin treated with riboflavin. There was a marked increase in TBS obtained in CAD after the application of MMP inhibitors. CONCLUSIONS: There is a significant difference between the bond strengths of healthy and caries-affected dentins. GSE and riboflavin both enhanced the bonding performance of eighth-generation bonding agent in both healthy dentin and CAD samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perovskite solar cells without a hole transport layer have gained popularity due to their stability and affordable manufacturing cost. In this work, device simulation of the solar cell structure is done using SCAPS-1D software with TiO2 as the Electron Transport Layer while toxic-free compound CH3NH3SnBr3 as the absorber material. The efficiency of the structure is found to be 12.63%. The cell performance parameters are investigated by varying individual cell parameters such as absorber layer thickness, absorber layer defect density and doping concentration, ETL thickness, ETL doping concentration, temperature and defect density of the absorber/ETL interface while holding others constant. Simulation with the optimised cell parameter values improves the efficiency to 24.02%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Liquid biopsy is a non tissue specimen method uses body fluids for molecular analysis of biomarkers Objectives: Liquid biopsies has the potential to advance early cancer detection, treatment modification, and disease recurrence surveillance. Biomarkers like exosomes, circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), and circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and techniques to analyze are discussed. It also emphasizes the significance of liquid biopsy, which proposes a possible substitute for solid biopsy for diagnosis and prognosis of cancer Conclusion: This review enlightens biological and clinical importance of various biomarkers and their detection for the diagnosis and prognosis of oral cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to develop fermented wheat flour (FWF) using native yeast lactic starter consortium isolated from dahi, a popular Indian fermented dairy product. Yeast and Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB) were isolated from samples of local household dahi to assess their milk fermentation potential. Molecular methods were used to identify the LAB isolates, while yeast isolates were identified using a carbohydrate fermentation profile. Dahi samples were prepared with LAB isolate Lactiplantibacillus pentosus, and yeast isolate Candida spherica, and their combination showed superior sensory scores. The FWF was prepared using LAB, yeast and their combination, and sensory evaluation of FWF-based soup was performed. The FWF prepared had lower moisture (6%), carbohydrate (71.14%) and calorific value (345.4 kcal) content compared to commercially available wheat flour/atta. Microbiological analysis showed the absence of coliforms, E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus, indicating hygienic preparation and inhibition of spoilage and pathogenic bacteria. The low moisture content and acidic pH (4.4) of the FWF contributed to its storage stability. In conclusion, fermented wheat flour produced using native LAB from dahi is a costeffective, storage-stable functional food with live beneficial microorganisms, suitable for promoting gut health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In developing nations, the increased prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has resulted in significant morbidity and socioeconomic consequences. Hypomagnesemia has been associated with insulin resistance and related microvascular consequences due to its ability to trigger hyperglycemia. Although many research articles on glycemic control have been published in recent years, the latest therapeutic approaches may not be feasible to all. As a result, prioritising preventative and primary care research becomes critical. Aim and objective: The study is aimed at estimating serum magnesium concentration and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels in patients with Type 2 Diabetes mellitus. This will help us evaluate how glycemic control in Diabetes can influence serum Magnesium levels. Method: The study consists of 50 consenting patients who came for routine blood investigations. Those patients having high random blood sugar were selected and divided into two groups based on their age. i.e. 25-50, 51-75. Other parameters considered were age, gender and diet. After an overnight fasting, blood of the consenting patient was collected. Magnesium was measured by Cobas 6000 using the calorimeter end-point method. The other blood sample was transferred into an EDTA test tube which was used to estimate HbA1c level. Result: Participants were divided into two groups based on their age. i.e. 25-50, 51-75. The mean serum magnesium levels were 1.46 mg/dL for group 1 and 1.3 mg/dL for group 2. The mean HbA1c levels for group 1 were 7.65 and and 8.36 for group 2 respectively. According to Pearson’s correlation coefficient, inverse correlation was found between HbA1c levels and Serum magnesium levels. Conclusion: Magnesium insufficiency has been linked to a higher incidence of diabetic due to poor glycemic management in people with diabetes. To avoid such problems and maintain glycemic control, dietary supplements may be recommended. Large-scale clinical research is also required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aetiology and significance of internal carotid artery variations at the skull base remain controversial after decades, with limited available literature. Approximately 10–40 per cent of the general population has parapharyngeal internal carotid artery variations. Method: A prospective observational study was conducted on internal carotid artery variations in 36 cadavers, in a tertiary care hospital, between March 2019 to March 2020. Results: The most common internal carotid artery variation observed in the specimens was tortuosity, in 30 per cent, followed by kinking in 18 per cent and coiling in 10 per cent. Thirty per cent of specimens had variations present bilaterally. A loop pattern of the internal carotid artery was identified. Coiling of the internal carotid artery may present as a node; hence, meticulous dissection is advocated near the skull base to avoid complications. These variations hold utmost importance for otorhinolaryngologists performing pharyngeal and nasopharyngeal surgical procedures. Conclusion: A detailed knowledge of anatomy, along with its variations, and surgical expertise, will help reduce the incidence of surgical complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Tumors like Odontogenic Keratocyst (OKC), Dentigerous Cyst (DC)and Pyogenic Granuloma are frequently occurring in the oral cavity with each of them having relation to angiogenesis. Higher angiogenesis may be associated with increased tissue metabolism, more aggressive biologic behaviour, and increased recurrence and growth rate. Tumor growth is dependent not only on a rise in the number of blood vessels, but also on factors such as protein molecules produced in endothelial cells. Microvessel density (MVD), Microvessel area (MVA), Microvessel perimeter (MVP) can predict the growth of the tumour, metastasis and patient's survival and this value is related to the aggressiveness of the tumour. Aims: The aim of the present study was to determine the angiogenic potential of OKC and DCcompared with normal mucosa using CD 105 marker immunohistochemically. Materials and methods: Immunohistochemical staining was done on 70 paraffin embedded tissue samples. Histopathologically diagnosed cases of OKC, DC and Pyogenic granuloma and healthy gingival tissue samples were retrieved for the study purpose. Results: There was no statistically significant difference in the mean MVD, MVA, MVP values of OKC, DC and pyogenic granuloma groups. Conclusion: The angiogenic potential was determined in 3 different cases of OKC, Dentigerous Cyst and Pyogenic granuloma in terms of MVD, MVA and MVP and compared to normal mucosa using CD105 marker immunohistochemically. Though the mean values of MVA, MVD, MVP were statistically not significant but was estimated to be higher than the normal mucosa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Meals, chores, entertainment, Lockdown brings families closer. Lockdown has come with its fair share of advantage. Families that mostly live apart now find grace in getting to spend quality time with other members of the house. In this study, A survey-based self-structured questionnaire was prepared with 15 questions using a random sampling method and was circulated among 100 people through an online portal link. The results were collected and then analysed through SPSS software. Descriptive statistical analysis was carried out and chi square test was used and p value was calculated. The results thus obtained in the form of pie charts and graphs. These graphs are then discussed. The results show that 96.46% of the people spend their lockdown period at home and 35.40% of the people are extremely happy in the lockdown within the family. But some develop anxiety and mental illness in the lockdown while 73.45% feels comfortable to be quarantined. From this study, it was concluded that since the p value was more than 0.05, there is no significant statistical difference that has been analysed. Thus, it was observed that lockdown helps us to build more and quality time within the family with the preventive measures to be followed against the pandemic COVID-19 without any anxiety or stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In December 2019, a local outbreak of pneumonia of initially unknown reason was identified in Wuhan(Hubei, China), also, was quickly determined to be caused by a novel Coronavirus, namely Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV-2). The Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus is known to cause 2019 Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19). Nationwide lockdown is being implemented to stop public transport, keep people at their homes and out of their work, and maintain social distancing. In turn, large geographical areas of the world (India, USA, China, Italy, Spain) have been almost halted. The temporary slashed down global air pollution as a result of COVID-19 minimizes the global emissions and maintains the economies once the pandemic eases. The Control plans implemented have improved air quality. Due to National and International Lockdown, the self revival rate of nature is boosted. There is a 30% reduction in terms of pollution in countries like Wuhan, Italy, Spain, and the USA. And the recent satellite images also show a significant reduction in terms of NO2. Due to the shutdown of Major Industrial units, there is a reduction in waste discharge into water bodies. Hence, this study aims to understand the positive impacts of the lockdown on nature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dentistry is a service sector where the doctors are in close contact with the patients. Hand hygiene is very important in the dental practice as it can prevent infection to a great extent. The aim of the survey was to assess the importance of hand hygiene among dentists. A Questionnaire of 15 questions was prepared and circulated in the google forms, the responses were collected, compiled, and updated on the SPSS software for data analysis. Pie charts and bar graphs were used to evaluate and interpret the results. Chi-Square test was carried out to check statistical significance and p value <0.05 was considered as significant. The results obtained from the dentists who participated in the survey provide that the dentists were aware of hand hygiene protocol and the survey showed that hand hygiene is important to every dentist in their dental practice . 98.1% of the population agreed that maintenance of hand hygiene by the dentists prevents the spread of infections; 81.1% of the dentists participated were aware that 7 steps involved in the hand hygiene protocol ; 85% of the dentists were aware that, a minimum of 20 seconds are required for proper handwashing to maintain the hand hygiene, All the dentists participated in this survey agreed that hand hygiene has to be maintained definitely before the patient contact; 97.2% of dentists also suggested that hand hygiene maintenance is more necessary among the health care workers and 74.8% of the dentists agreed as hand hygiene is the most important criterion among their dental clinics. Thus, This survey could make awareness among the dentist regarding hand hygiene protocol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concept of boosting immunity was a popular one. Although the lay public is exposed to information on how to boost immunity and the only evidence-based approach to this is vaccination. The aim of this review was to analyze such immune boosters as a myth or reality and the information about immune-boosting drugs available on the Internet. Of the 30 approaches to boost immunity recorded, the top ones were diet (76%), fruit (70%), vitamins (65%), antioxidants (54%), probiotics (52%), minerals (49%), and vitamin C (56%). Interestingly, vaccines ranked 27th, with only 12% mentioning them. Commercial websites are an important component of the information available to the public on the topic and thus contribute to providing information that is biased. Vaccines have developed society by saving lives and dramatically reducing the burden of infectious disease. Most successful vaccines have been developed empirically, but recent advances in immunology are beginning to shed new light on the mechanisms of vaccine-mediated protection and the development of long-term immunity. The role of vaccination is to generate long term protection against diseases. Prime-boost vaccine strategies could improve cellular and also humoral immunity in several animal models, among various vaccine modalities. Although natural infection will often provide lifelong immunity, current vaccinations need a booster dose to achieve durable protective humoral immune responses, regardless of whether the vaccine is based on infection with replicating live-attenuated vaccine strains of the specific pathogen or whether they are derived from immunization with inactivated, non-replicating vaccines or subunit vaccines. This review discusses the recent advances in immunization and the immune boosters and decides whether these are a myth or reality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apex locator is an electronic device used in endodontics that determines the position of the apical construction and it determines the root canal space length. Usually the correct working length determination is identified by using radiograph,but electronic apex locators are being used increasingly nowadays. These electronic apex locators reduce the number of radiographs required and assist where radiographic methods create difficulties. Detection of root canal perforation is also considered as one of the roles of an apex locator. The benefit of apex locators include that these devices are much less affected by fluid conductive media in the canal. Some experience in the use of the apex locator will allow the clinician to recognize the differences immediately. It is used to find the working length determination, cementing the file in place, extracting the tooth and locating the file under magnification in the root canal. This review assesses the advantages and advances that would enable the use in dentistry and determination of working length. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infertility is defined as the failure to achieve clinical pregnancy after 1 or more years of unprotected sex. It may be due to physiological dysfunction hormonal and physiological disturbances. In many cases the reason for infertility is not known. The aim of this study was to assess the awareness of the guidelines for infertility among medical students. A questionnaire of 15 questions were prepared and circulated in Google forms. 100 students have responded to the present survey, among the 100 participants 61.17% of them are female and 38.83% of them are male The data collected were updated in the SPSS software and results were interpreted. Chi-Square test was carried out to check statistical significance . p value < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. 80% of the students who participated in the study self claimed that they had the knowledge about infertility. 76% of the study population said that infertility means failure to achieve clinical pregnancy. 75% of the population reported that they had previous knowledge about the diagnostic guidelines for infertility. This study could create awareness among medical students about the diagnostic guidelines for infertility and the importance of their knowledge about it, is highlighted in this research article. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]