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Context: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a common metabolic abnormality which affects ~2-5% of the pregnancies annually. Various risk factors such as advanced maternal age, previous infants with macrosomia, a strong family history of non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) or GDM, poor glycaemic control and a high pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) have been implicated for the development of GDM. Aims: To compare the serum creatinine, uric acid and the albumin levels in patients with GDM and in normal pregnant women and to see if there existed any correlation between these biochemical markers and certain clinical parameters in the study groups. Settings and Design: Hospital based prospective study. Methods and Material: The study group consisted of 40 patients with gestational diabetes mellitus and 40 normal healthy pregnant women who served as the controls. We evaluated the biochemical and the metabolic alterations in these women by measuring their serum creatinine, uric acid and albumin levels. We also concentrated on the maternal complications and the perinatal outcomes. Statistical analysis used: The independent samples t-test and the Pearson’s correlation test. Results: There was a significant increase in the serum creatinine and the uric acid levels and a significant decrease in the serum albumin levels in the GDM patients. The incidence of GDM in the studied groups was influenced by factors such as maternal age, gravidity, pre-pregnancy BMI and blood pressure. We observed quite a number of complications such as pre-eclampsia, polyhydramnios, hyperbilirubinaemia, RDS, etc. in the GDM women and their foetuses. Conclusions: The estimation of serum creatinine, uric acid and albumin can help us in predicting the metabolic alterations which occur in the GDM patients and their foetuses. Further, it is quite essential to identify and manage the complications which are associated with GDM and to prevent its recurrence by considering the modifiable risk factors, since such women would in all probability be prone for GDM in their future pregnancies.

20-year-old male patient R.B. reported with the complaint of uneven smile and inability to chew. On clinical examination, patient had a straight profile, competent lips, normal nasolabial angle, bilateral class I molar and canine, minimum centric occlusion and centric relation discrepancy, unilateral posterior cross bite extending from 22 to 26, moderate crowding in the upper and lower arches. Maxillary arch was narrow and 'V' shaped. Dental midlines were not coinciding. His lower dental midline was shifted to the left by 4 mm. Treatment included Fixed mechanotherapy, asymmetric unilateral expansion on left side of maxilla and facemask therapy for protraction. Patient was treated with MBT brackets with 0.022 slot and AMEX appliance. When upper arch expanded adequately, lower strap up was carried out. At the end of treatment, patient had class I molar and canine. Dental midlines were coinciding. Unilateral posterior cross-bite was corrected with good posterior interdigitation. Patient's facial asymmetry and smile were improved. Currently patient is in retention therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cancer stands as a leading global cause of human mortality, predominantly driven by solid tumors that can ravage vital organs. The scientific community has made significant strides in comprehending the molecular and cellular underpinnings of cancer. However, translating these discoveries into effective, targeted therapeutics has proven challenging. This gap highlights the existence of critical bottlenecks hindering the journey from fundamental research findings to fully realized anticancer drugs. Recent insights into cancer biology have illuminated one potential bottleneck: the presence of cancer stem cells (CSCs). These represent a minority subset of cells within a tumor, believed to orchestrate the relentless growth of the entire tumor. The concept of CSCs has gained substantial traction, thanks to advancements in stem cell research. Developing more potent and precise cancer therapies hinges on our ability to identify and understand these cancer-initiating cells within solid tumors. It is essential to discern how CSCs differ from other cancer cells coexisting in the same tissue. This review endeavors to compile the accumulated scientific evidence supporting the existence of CSCs, elucidate the cell surface markers employed for their isolation, dissect the pathways governing their self-renewal and differentiation, and outline future directions for harnessing them as therapeutic targets to eradicate tumor growth comprehensively.

Background: Periodontitis is a ubiquitous and irreversible inflammatory condition that affects the supporting structures of teeth, which could lead to tooth loss as well as contribute to systemic inflammation. During the inflammatory phase, there is a release of superoxide ions and reactive oxygen species, which causes an increase in the oxidative stress. To combat this stress, the use of certain antioxidants has been proposed, which will help in maintaining the harmonious equilibrium. Aim: The aim of the present systematic review is to investigate the efficacy of topical and intrasulcular application of coenzyme Q10 in nonsurgical treatment of periodontal disease. Materials and Methods: We conducted a systematic review on the clinical studies which compared the use of coenzyme Q10 as an adjunct to nonsurgical periodontal therapy. The studies mentioned in this review were in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines and met our inclusion criteria – only randomized control trials in humans and literature published between 2000 and 2020 were included. Results: Therapies with coenzyme Q10 as an adjunct to scaling and root planing (SRP) proved to show superior improvement by reduction in the clinical parameters (plaque index, gingival index, bleeding on probing, and clinical attachment loss) when compared to SRP alone. Conclusions: Adjunctive therapy with coenzyme Q10 provides longer-lasting therapeutic effects and better results when compared with SRP alone. The possibility to use the gel as a sole agent to support standard treatment procedures in periodontitis is also suggested.

Currently, granular urea (most commonly used fertilizer) is applied through broadcasting by farmers in the field. Granular urea causes significant losses due to slower soil mineralization rates, as well as ammonia volatilization and immobilization. Hence, fertilizing crops is becoming an increasingly difficult task due to low use efficiency and in mulch field conditions, it becomes more severe. The research done on mechatronic systems of applying liquid fertilizer by spot injection in field is limited. In the present study, the performance of the developed tractor operated liquid urea applicator consisting of electronic metering mechanism was evaluated at the Research Farm of Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab during 2020–22. Research was done at two different types of soil (S1: sandy loam, and S2: loam) for three different forward speeds (3.6, 2.7, 1.8 km/h). Results obtained from experiments indicated that both soil type and forward speed had a significant (P

We conducted qualitative research exploring the treatment experience of people with DR-TB. We held nine focus group discussions with 57 adults undergoing/recently completed treatment for DR-TB in Georgia, Mongolia and South Africa. Translated transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis. We identified three higher order themes: (1) Treatment experience and the role of good relationships with healthcare providers: Treatment duration, pill burden and side-effects were challenging aspects of treatment. Side-effects/symptoms that were visible signs of illness were particularly troubling. Good relations with clinical staff helped combat fear and uncertainty regarding treatment. (2) Mental distress and opportunities for wellbeing: The shame, stigma and isolation people experienced as a result of their DR-TB diagnosis was an important cause of mental distress. No longer being infectious enabled people to resume work and socialising. Positive emotions emerged with good treatment outcomes. (3) Fear and worry along the treatment journey: Participants expressed fears about TB: infecting others; whether they would be able to endure treatment; side-effects; health consequences of treatment. Worries mostly disappeared with successful treatment. Alongside measuring side-effects, time to culture conversion and cure rates, future trials of DR-TB treatments should capture how quickly visible symptoms resolve, quality of life measures, and mental health outcomes.

Semi-arid region can benefit greatly from surface and subsurface drip irrigation techniques in overcoming the problem of water scarcity. Therefore, a field study was carried out at the research farm of CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana during winter (rabi) season 2019–20 and 2020–21 to investigate the effectiveness of surface and subsurface drip irrigation on growth and yield of broccoli (Brassica oleracia L.). Subsurface drip irrigation shows higher moisture content than surface drip irrigation at vertical as well as radial distance. The growth parameters were found highest in the treatment irrigation after one day under subsurface drip irrigation. The average highest (14610 kg/ha in 2019–20 and 14740 kg/ha in 2020–21) and lowest (12920 kg/ha in 2019–20 and 13030 kg/ha in 2020–21) total yield was recorded under irrigation after one day in subsurface drip irrigation and irrigation after three days in surface drip irrigation treatments, respectively. It is concluded that alternate days irrigation with subsurface drip irrigation gives better performance to obtain the maximum yield of broccoli grown in the semi-arid region of India.

Comprehensive preoperative evaluation of potential donors is crucial for selecting the right donor. Early segmentary arterial branching is present in 10%–12% of cases. Expert surgeons require at least 1 cm of main donor renal artery to clamp and properly anastomose the artery in the recipient. We report a case of live-related renal transplantation wherein the recipient had a crossed renal ectopia and the donor had early branching of the left renal artery (

The study deals with the optimization of paddy residue management technologies for the management of paddy straw in combine harvested fields. The study emphasizes paddy straw management under different techniques (Retention, Incorporation and Removal of straw) with the use of different combinations of machinery. The research was conducted at farmer's field Dabra, Hisar, Haryana during 2017–18. The objective of the research was to evaluate techno-economic feasibility of different options of machinery. According to the results of the trials, the M4 (Combine harvester with SMS + Reversible mould board plough + Rotavator + Seed drill) had the greatest fuel consumption of 53.12 l/ha. M2 (Combine harvester with SMS + Spatial till drill) had the lowest fuel consumption of 22.29 l/ha. The lowest cost of operation of 63.32 `/q was found in treatment M2. Highest unit cost operation of 140.52 `/q was found in M9 (Traditional combine + Stubble shaver + Hay rake + Straw baler + Disc harrow (2 pass) + Planker + Seed drill). The benefit-cost ratio was found to be highest in traditional combine (1.99) and lowest in zero-till drill (1.11). Treatment-wise, benefit-ratio ratio was found maximum in treatment M10 (1.80) and minimum in M5 (1.50). According to the findings of study, residue retention technology is found better in comparison to straw incorporation and straw removal.

Propolis is a good source for flavonoids, however, their recovery is challenging, as it is a waxy material. This study investigated edible oils virgin coconut oil (VCO), corn oil (CO), and ghee (G) as co-extractants for the supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO2) extraction of flavonoids from the propolis. The extraction of flavonoids using 20% VCO as co-extractant with scCO2 (25 g/min) for 210 min at 150 bar and 50°C was found to be the most appropriate, yielding a total flavonoid content (TFC) of 11.7 mg/g and 25% TFC recovery. At a higher temperature (60°C) and pressure (250 bar and 350 bar), the propolis became softer and compressed causing the extractions to retrograde. The extraction curves correlated to the diffusion model with 1.6% (AARD). The matrix diffusivities increased from 4.7 × 10-11 m2/s (scCO2) to 6.9 × 10-11-21.4 × 10-11 m2/s upon the addition of edible oils. Thus, edible oils could be used with scCO2 to improve the flavonoid extraction from propolis.

BackgroundCoronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) is associated with thromboembolism. Antiphospholipid antibody (APLa) formation is one of the mechanisms. Vitamin D deficiency has been associated with thrombosis in antiphospholipid antibody syndrome.ObjectiveMeasure APLa and vitamin D in hospitalized COVID-19 patients with and without thrombosis to evaluate if thromboembolism is associated with concomitant APLa and vitamin D deficiency.MethodsCase-control study. Hospitalized COVID-19 patients with a thromboembolic event (ischemic stroke, myocardial infarction, deep venous thrombosis/pulmonary embolism, Cases n = 20). Controls (n = 20): Age, sex-matched without thromboembolic events. Patients with autoimmune disorders, antiphospholipid antibody syndrome, thrombophilia, anticoagulation therapy, prior thromboembolism, chronic kidney disease 3b, 4, end-stage renal disease, and malignancy were excluded. Given the limited current literature on the role of concomitant antiphospholipid antibodies and vitamin D deficiency in causing venous and/or arterial thrombosis in hospitalized COVID-19 patients, we enrolled 20 patients in each arm. Anti-cardiolipin IgG/IgM, beta-2 glycoprotein-1 IgG/IgM, lupus anticoagulant and vitamin D levels were measured in both groups.ResultsCases were 5.7 times more likely to be vitamin D deficient (OR:5.7, 95% CI:1.3-25.6) and 7.4 times more likely to have any one APLa (OR:7.4, 95% CI: 1.6-49.5) while accounting for the effects of sex. Patients with both APLa and vitamin D deficiency had significantly more thrombosis compared to patients who were antibody positive without vitamin D deficiency (100% vs 47.4%; p = 0.01).ConclusionsThrombosis in COVID-19 was associated with concomitant APLa and vitamin D deficiency. Future studies in COVID-19 should assess the role of vitamin D in reducing thrombosis.

Objective: To evaluate influence of asthma on polysomnographic variables of patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).Methods: A longitudinal retrospective study using data collected from the Sleep Heart Health Study (SHHS).Results: All 2822 patients included had OSA, 2599 were non-asthmatic whereas 223 were asthmatics. Average BMI for non-asthmatics was 28.8 kg/m2 whereas asthmatics had 29.5 kg/m2. Median pack-years of smoking was 1.42 vs. 1.98 in non-asthmatic and asthmatic groups, respectively. Sex distribution, age (in years), BMI, FEV1, FVC, AHI ≥ 4% (all apneas, hypopneas with ≥4% oxygen desaturation or arousal per hour of sleep), RDI ≥ 3% (overall respiratory distribution index at ≥3% oxygen desaturation or arousal), sleep latency, percentage of sleep time in apnea/hypopnea and Epworth sleep scale score were all statistically significant. Non-asthmatics had greater AHI (12.63/hr) compared to asthmatics (11.34/hour), p = 0.0015. RDI in non-asthmatics and asthmatics was (23.07 vs 20.53; p = 0.009). Sleep latency was found to be longer in asthmatics 19.8 minutes vs. 16 minutes (p = 0.008). Epworth sleepiness scale score was high in asthmatics (9 vs. 8, p = 0.002).Conclusion: OSA was found more severe in non-asthmatic subgroup, but asthmatics had statistically significant higher Epworth sleepiness scale score and sleep latency. Clinicians should be vigilant and keep low threshold to rule out OSA particularly on patients with difficult to control asthma, smoker, GERD, obese and nasal disease.

The mechanisms underlying the differentiation of Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) toward neuronal cell type are not clearly understood. Earlier, we reported that laminin-1 induces neurite outgrowth in human MSCs via c-Jun/AP-1 activation through ERK, JNK, and Akt pathways. In this study, we demonstrate that laminin-1 increases the expression of proneural gene, neuroD1 and induces the expression of immediate-early biomarkers of neuronal cell-programming-Egr1, Egr3, PC3, and PC4. Gene expression profiling of MSCs cultured on laminin-1 and Poly- l-lysine for 12 h revealed differential regulation of 267 genes (>1.5 fold, p < 0.05), predominantly in the category of nervous system development and affected the pathways involved in TGF-β/TNF-α signaling, regulation of MAPK and JNK cascade. Data for 11 selected genes related to nervous system development was validated by real time PCR. Transcriptional regulatory network analysis revealed c-Jun as the key transcription factor regulating majority of differentially expressed genes and identified Disrupted in schizophrenia 1, as a novel target of c-Jun. Modeling and analysis of biological network showed selective induction of Growth Arrest and DNA damage 45 (GADD45B) and repression of NF-κB inhibitor A (NFκBIA). Collectively, our findings provide the basis for understanding the molecular mechanisms associated with laminin-1-induced neurogenic expression in MSCs. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 103A: 746-761, 2015. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Pigmentation of the gingiva plays a negative role in an otherwise acceptable “smile window”. In the present world, people are more concerned about their aesthetics. Several techniques have been employed such as scalpel surgery, electrosurgery, cryosurgery, chemical agents, abrasion and LASER method for the removal of melanin hyper-pigmentation. The present study is aimed at comparing the efficacy of LASER and soft tissue trimmer for gingival depigmentation. Methods: A randomized split-mouth study was conducted for twenty patients with gingival pigmentation. Dummet Oral Pigmentation Index (DOPI), Gingival Pigmentation Index (GPI) for pigmentation, bleeding factor, wound healing factor, gingival colour and visual analogue scale (VAS) score for pain were evaluated for both the groups at baseline, 7th day, 1st month and 6th month. Results: Intra-group comparison between baseline and 6th month showed highly significant difference for both LASER and bur groups. There was no statistically significant difference found between both the groups at 6th month using gingival pigmentation index. Conclusion: It can be concluded that LASER and soft tissue trimmer both are comparable in achieving aesthetic satisfaction. Hence, the soft tissue trimmer could also be used for depigmentation as it is very cost effective, readily available and acceptable by the patients.

Background: Considering the microbial etiology of the periodontal disease, the periodontal therapy aims to control or abolish the pathogenic microbes. The gold standard scaling and root planing procedure has been used since time immemorial but the drawbacks associated with it have led to the development of various adjunctive means. The current study was therefore, performed to comparatively assess the efficacy of local delivery of chlorhexidine and 808-nm diode LASER as an appurtenance to scaling and root planing in patients with chronic periodontitis. Methods: In a randomized split mouth evaluation, 30 patients having probing depth of ≥5 mm which bled on probing at least at 3 different sites were included. At baseline, the evaluation of plaque index, bleeding index, probing pocket depth and clinical attachment level was done and the microbial samples were collected for the assessment of spirochetes, motile rods and coccoid cells. The 3 selected sites of each subject were allocated to 3 different groups A, B, C viz; Scaling and root planing (SRP) + chlorhexidine chip, SRP + diode LASER and SRP respectively. The patients were recalled after 4 weeks to re-evaluate the clinical and microbiological parameters. Results: All the parameters significantly reduced from baseline to 4 weeks in all the 3 groups. Intergroup comparisons revealed remarkable difference between group A and C and group B and C, respectively; no notably significant difference was found between group A and B. Conclusion: The additional use of LASER and chlorhexidine chip assures anti-inflammatory effect and anti-microbial effect that allows reduction in bacterial counts and promotes healing. The use of adjuncts have been found to be efficacious in controlling disease and promoting periodontal health and thereby reducing the need for surgical procedures to be undertaken.

Background: Dentinal hypersensitivity occurs on exposed dentin and depends on the patency of dentinal tubules. The purpose of this study was to evaluate different desensitizing agents on dentinal tubule occlusion by scanning electron microscopy. Materials and Methods: Thirty teeth were collected from extracted sound maxillary premolars. Samples were sectioned mesiodistally to obtain 30 buccal and 30 lingual surfaces, and enamel was removed in order to simulate hypersensitive dentin. Specimens were randomly divided into four groups. Group 1: 10 samples were coated with Gluma desensitizer, Group 2: 10 samples were coated with VivaSens, Group 3: 10 samples were coated with MS Coat, Group 4: 10 samples each of the contralateral parts of samples were coated with Gluma desensitizer, VivaSens, and MS Coat on which no desensitizing agent was applied, which acted as the controls. All the specimens were examined under SEM, and photomicrographs were evaluated to assess the opening of dentinal tubules in the controls and occlusion of dentinal tubules in their contralateral parts coated with the desensitizing agents. Results: Statistically significant amount of tubules got occluded after the application of MS Coat desensitizer as compared to tubules that got occluded after the application of VivaSens desensitizer and Gluma desensitizer. Conclusion: MS Coat showed better results in the closure of the dentinal tubules, followed by VivaSens and then Gluma desensitizer.

Background: Alveolar bone loss at the crest and interdental osseous defects are the frequent outcomes of periodontal disease. Radiographs act as valuable adjunct as they provide essential information regarding the morphology of residual bone and help in determining the prognosis, formulating treatment plan, and establishing the outcome of various therapies. Aims: The aim of the study was to compare the measurements obtained by conventional (intraoral periapical [IOPA] radiographs) and digital radiographs (radiovisiography [RVG]) for the assessment of alveolar bone by utilizing intrasurgical (IS) measurements as the gold standard. Methods: Thirty systemically healthy periodontitis patients with 100 interproximal sites were selected to undergo periodontal flap surgery. IOPA radiographs and RVG were taken before surgery using paralleling cone technique with the help of extension cone paralleling technique (XCP)®. Measurements in case of horizontal and vertical bone loss were taken and compared to IS measurements. Statistical Analysis Used: Analysis of variance and post hoc test were used. Results: No statistically significant difference was found between conventional and digital radiographic method in comparison to IS (IS) method for the assessment of alveolar bone level. Conclusion: Both radiographic methods (conventional and digital) showed statistically nonsignificant results in comparison to IS measurements. Hence, either IOPA radiograph or RVG can be used to visualize the alveolar bone level in periodontal disease.

The treatment of periodontitis primarily consists of mechanical debridement carried out by means of thorough scaling and root planing that might sometimes be a painful procedure which requires the administration of some form of local anesthesia. The present study comparatively evaluates the anesthetic effect of three such forms, viz; eutectic mixture of 25 mg/g lignocaine plus 25 mg/g prilocaine (EMLA) and needleless jet anesthesia during SRP. 30 patients with probing depth of 5 mm or more and visual analog scale (VAS) score of ≥30 mm on probing were selected and asked to assess the pain by VAS and verbal rating scale (VRS) during SRP after application of the two agents. The difference between the visual analogue values of control, EMLA and Madajet XL is highly significant (p

Radicular gingival groove is a developmental anomaly most commonly occurring in the maxillary anterior teeth that acts as a hidden trap in the tooth which accumulates plaque and periodontal pathogens, leading to the formation of periodontal pocket with or without pulpal involvement. The diagnosis of these grooves in terms of radiographic images is very difficult to predict and can only be appreciated as per patient's chief complaint along with clinical examination of periodontal pocket depth with probing and endodontic treatment of tooth if pulpal involvement is present.

Context: Polishing is an important step in oral prophylaxis procedure, which retards further accumulation of plaque on the root surface. Aim: The present in vitro study was to evaluate the efficacy of Sodium Bicarbonate Prophy Powder and Glycine Prophy Powder to produce minimum roughness on the root surface of cementum and dentin. Methods: Forty-five samples were collected and stored in saline. Scaling and root planing of each sample were done. Each sample was mounted on acrylic block so as to leave one surface of the root exposed. A tentative area on the proximal side of root 4 mm apically from cementoenamel junction was demarcated. Forty-five specimens were randomly divided into three groups – Group 1: Control group, Group 2: Polished with Sodium Bicarbonate Prophy Powder, and Group 3: Polished with Glycine Prophy Powder. All the samples were analyzed under surface roughness tester, and average roughness values were calculated. Statistical Analysis Used: The values obtained were statistically analyzed using the NPAR test. Results: The study revealed that average roughness is significantly less after using Glycine Prophy Powder than Sodium Bicarbonate Prophy Powder. Conclusion: Glycine Prophy Powder is a more efficient polishing powder in producing less roughness on the root surface as compared to Sodium Bicarbonate Prophy Powder.

Aim: This is a hospital-based questionnaire survey to investigate the awareness of the pictorial warnings on tobacco products among the residents of Paonta Sahib, Himachal Pradesh. Materials and Methods: A total of 840 tobacco user subjects were enrolled in the study. Data were collected by a self-designed, close-ended structured questionnaire which comprised 15 questions related to demographic details, knowledge about tobacco products, practices of tobacco habits, etc., Results: Most of the study participants (69.9%) were aware of statutory and pictorial warnings present on the tobacco products. Majority of the subjects (48.3%) said pictorial representation on the tobacco packets does not help them in refraining from intake of tobacco. Conclusion: The recently updated pictorial warnings are helpful to some extent but requires more strengthening to make pictorial health warnings easier to comprehend to assess the deleterious effects of tobacco by its consumers and general public.

Introduction: Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC) is the sixth most common cancer in the world and is of significant public health importance. There is a clear evidence of rise in the prevalence rate of oropharyngeal cancers mostly located at the base of the tongue and tonsillar region, which is attributed to the augmented incidence of high risk Human Papilloma Viruses (HPV) infections and requires a routine screening tool. Aim: To detect and genotype HPV in the saliva of OSCC subjects using nested Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). Materials and Methods: Saliva rinse of 30 OSCC patients from JSS Dental College Hospital and Bharath Hospital & Institute of Oncology and 30 each from normal and high risk individuals from different regions of Mysore were collected and nested PCR based high-risk HPV genotyping was carried out. Results: Using consensus PCR primers it was observed that 13.3% of normal subjects, 46.6% of high risk subjects and 43.3% of OSCC subjects were infected with HPV irrespective of specific type. In all the three groups the prevalence of HPV 16 was significantly higher than HPV 18. The odds ratio for high risk subjects to be HPV positive was found to be 5.68 (p= 0.007*) and for OSCC subjects to be HPV positive was 4.97 (p= 0.01*). Conclusion: Our study has emphasised, the fact that utilisation of saliva sample as a non-invasive tool in screening of HPV associated oropharyngeal cancers can be more patient friendly without compromising on the detection ability.

Background: The anti-inflammatory and immune enhancing effects of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) and hyaluronic acid are well established in medical literature. The present study was undertaken to evaluate their role in chronic periodontitis. Materials and Methods: One hundred twenty sites in 24 patients with clinically confirmed periodontitis were included in the study. A split-mouth design was used for intrasulcular application of CoQ10as adjunct to scaling and root planing (SRP), 0.8% hyaluronic acid as adjunct to SRP and SRP alone. Clinical parameters such as plaque index (PI), gingival color change index (GCCI), Eastman interdental bleeding index (EIBI), pocket depth (PD), and clinical attachment level (CAL) were recorded. All the clinical parameters PI, EIBI, GCCI, PD, and CAL were recorded at baseline before SRP. Only PI, EIBI, and GCCI were recorded at 1st and 2nd week. Twenty-one days post 2nd week, i.e., 6th week all the clinical parameters were recorded again. Results: Intragroup analysis of all the clinical parameters showed clinical significant results between baseline and 6th week. However, on intergroup analysis, the results were not significant. Conclusion: The local application of CoQ10and hyaluronic acid gel in conjunction with SRP may have a beneficial effect on periodontal health in patients with chronic periodontitis.

Background: The etiology of periodontal diseases is multifactorial including both systemic and local causes. Local factors such as grooves on root surfaces contribute a great deal to the causation of periodontal diseases. Materials and Methods: Proximal radicular grooves were studied in 150 extracted maxillary and mandibular anterior teeth. Periodontal attachment loss was measured after staining the root surfaces with 0.1% toluidine blue stain. The relationship of the presence and absence of grooves with periodontal attachment loss was also studied. Results: The prevalence of proximal root grooves was found to be 86.67%. The prevalence of grooves on maxillary teeth was 43.42% and on mandibular teeth was 56.67%. A greater loss of attachment was present on grooved surfaces than on nongrooved surfaces. Conclusion: The proximal radicular grooves present as one of the major etiological factors in periodontal diseases.

Introduction: The waste created by the healthcare services while providing services which may be either curative, promotive, or preventive may be hazardous to health and environment if there is indiscriminate disposal of hospital waste. Objective: The objective was to assess knowledge, attitude, and practices of students (3 rd years, 4 th years), interns and teaching staff. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a close-ended questionnaire among the students, interns and teaching staff of three dental colleges in Himachal Pradesh. A total of 578 subjects were included in the study with their prior consent. Statistical Analysis: The data were tabulated, and interpretation was done in percentages by using SPSS version 13.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA). Results: Many dentists have the knowledge about the waste management, but they lack in the attitude and practice. Conclusion: There is a need for education regarding hazards associated with improper waste disposal at all levels of dental personnel.

Introduction: Vitamin D has been implicated to play a very important role in different types of cancers due to its pleotropic effects such as cell proliferation, cell differentiation, apoptosis etc. The implications of vitamin D deficiency are more evident in breast, prostate and colorectal cancer. Studies have revealed vitamin D supplementation reduces the risk of Breast cancer. Aim: The main objective of our study was to find out whether low serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D levels was associated with breast cancer. Materials and Methods: Study group included 25 diagnosed cases of breast cancer. Equal number of age and sex matched healthy persons were included in the control group. Serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D was estimated by electrochemiluminiscence immunoassay. Results: Mean vitamin D levels were low in breast cancer patients, when compared to controls (p-value < 0.05),which shows that low vitamin D levels are associated with increased risk of breast cancer. Conclusion: Our study showed that low levels of vitamin D are associated with breast cancer when compared to apparently healthy controls. Estimation of serum vitamin D in patients with breast cancer might help in the early diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer.

Background: Low-intensity laser therapy (LILT) can be utilized for different treatments in the field of orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of LILT on (1) the rate of canine movement during canine retraction phase and (2) evaluate the radiographic changes occurring during LILT around the irradiated area. Materials and Methods: A total of 10 patients of both genders were included for this study. One quadrant of the upper arch was considered control group (CG) and received mechanical activation of the canine teeth with 150 g. The opposite quadrant received the same mechanical activation and was also irradiated with a diode emitting light (gallium-arsenide laser) at 904 nm, for 10 s at 12 mW, at 4.2 J/cm 2 . Laser application was done on 1 st day, 3 rd , 7 th , 14 th , 21 th , 28 th , 35 th , 42 nd , 49 th , 56 th day respectively during the canine retraction phase. Distance was measured on 1 st day, 35 th day and 63 rd day and appliance activation was done on 1 st and 35 th day. Results were analyzed using t-test with the significance level set at P < 0.01. Results: Mean value obtained from 1 st to 63 rd day was 3.30 ± 2.36 mm for CG and 3.53 ± 2.30 mm for laser group (LG). Conclusion: There was no statistically significant difference in the rate of tooth movement during canine retraction between the LG and the CG. There was no evidence of any pathologic changes in the radiograph following LILT.

Recent epidemiological studies reveal that more than two-third of the world′s population suffers from one of the chronic forms of periodontal disease. The primary etiological agent of this inflammatory disease is a polymicrobial complex, predominantly Gram negative anaerobic or facultative bacteria within the sub-gingival biofilm. These bacterial species initiate the production of various cytokines such as interleukin-8 and TNF-α, further causing an increase in number and activity of polymorphonucleocytes (PMN) along with these cytokines, PMNs also produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) superoxide via the respiratory burst mechanism as the part of the defence response to infection. ROS just like the interleukins have deleterious effects on tissue cells when produced in excess. To counter the harmful effects of ROS, human body has its own defence mechanisms to eliminate them as soon as they are formed. The aim of this review is to focus on the role of different free radicals, ROS, and antioxidants in the pathophysiology of periodontal tissue destruction.

Menopause is a physiological process typically occurring in the fifth decade of life. One of the most annoying oral symptoms in this age group is the burning mouth syndrome (BMS), which may be defined as an intraoral burning sensation occurring in the absence of identifiable oral lesion or laboratory findings. Pain in burning mouth syndrome may be described as burning, tender, tingling, hot, scalding, and numb sensation in the oral mucosa. Multiple oral sites may be involved, but the anterior two-third part and the tip of tongue are most commonly affected site. There is no definite etiology for BMS other than the precipitating causative factors, and it is still considered idiopathic. Various treatment options like use of benzodiazepine, anti-depressants, analgesics, capsaicin, alpha lipoic acids, and cognitive behavioral therapy are found to be effective, but definite treatment is still unknown. The present article discusses some of the recent concepts of etiopathogenesis of BMS as well as the role of pharmacotherapeutic management in this disorder.

Background: The study aimed at comparing the effectiveness of rotary instruments with hand instruments in non-surgical treatment of chronic periodontitis. Materials and Methods: Thirty-eight patients with chronic periodontitis, enrolled to this randomized, controlled clinical trial, were divided into two groups. Patients in the control group received scaling and root planing with hand instruments, whereas patients in the test group received treatment with rotary instruments. Clinical assessment by plaque index, bleeding on probing, probing depth, gingival recession, and clinical attachment level was made prior to and at 6 months after treatment. Differences in the clinical parameters were analyzed using the Wilcoxon signed rank test and Mann-Whitney U test. Results: Both treatments resulted in a significant improvement in all clinical recordings, but no differences in any of the investigated parameters were observed at baseline between the two groups. Conclusion: Non-surgical periodontal therapy with the tested rotary instruments may lead to clinical improvements comparable to those obtained with conventional hand instruments.

Meticulous plaque control on a daily routine basis is the single most important step to achieve good oral health. Herbal chewing sticks, commonly known as Miswak, are among the ancient and traditional oral hygiene aids popular in India, Pakistan, most of the Arabian countries, and several African countries. But nowadays, because of low cost, free availability, unique chemical composition, and spiritual beliefs, miswak is being used worldwide. A large number of studies have proved that miswak is as effective as, or even superior to the present day′s most common oral hygiene aid, i.e., toothbrush. The aim of this review article is to discuss various pharmacological and therapeutic aspects of miswak and also to compare the effectiveness of miswak with modern toothbrushes in terms of oral hygiene practice.

Background: The aim of this study was to compare root surface characteristic following root planing with various hand and power driven instruments. Materials and Methods: A total of 20 single rooted teeth were used in this study, of which two specimens were used as control (no instrumentation done) and remaining 18 specimens were equally divided into three groups. Specimens from each group were then subjected to root planing by one of the following instruments: (1) a Gracey curette (2) Ultrasonic tip and (3) a Rotary bur. In each case, the time required for scaling and root planing was measured. After treatment, the specimens were observed under scanning electron microscope and surface roughness was measured by using Roughness and loss of tooth substance index (RLTSI). Results: The mean RLTSI scores for Gracey curette, ultrasonic and rotary instrument group were 2.5, 2.0 and 0.667 respectively. The mean scores of time spent for scaling and root planing by Gracey curette, ultrasonic and rotary instrument group in seconds were 42.50, 35.83 and 54.50. Conclusion: All the three instruments namely Gracey curette, Ultrasonic tip and Rotary bur were effective in mechanical debridement of root surface. The results favoured the use of rotary instruments for root planing to achieve smooth clean root surface; however, the use of rotary instrument was more time consuming which might limit its use in clinical practice.

Obesity is a multifaceted subject. It has increased at an alarming rate in recent years. Being overweight increases the likelihood of a patient having associated health and social problems which may affect dental services and dental management. A review of the literature on obesity and periodontal disease suggested that they both confound each other and obesity itself has been recognized as a major risk factor for periodontal disease. It has been found that adverse effects of obesity on the periodontium may be mediated through pro-inflammatory cytokines and various other bioactive substances. This article tries to focus on the possible role of obesity and obesity-related diseases like diabetes and coronary heart diseases (CHD), as a potential contributor to periodontal disease and vice versa. The meanings of these associations can be useful for various diagnostic and treatment planning purposes.

Aim: The aim of this study was to compare root surface characteristics following root planing with various hand- and power-driven instruments. Materials and Methods: A total of 20 single, rooted teeth were used in this study; two specimens were used as control (no instrumentation done) and the remaining 18 specimens were equally divided into three groups. Specimens from each group were then subjected to root planing by one of the following instruments: (1) a Gracey curette, (2) ultrasonic tip and (3) a Rotary bur. In each case, the time required for scaling and root planing and surface roughness using the Roughness and Loss of Tooth Substance Index (RLTSI) was measured. Result: The mean RLTSI scores for the Gracey curette, ultrasonic and rotary instrument groups were 2.5, 2.0 and 0.667, respectively. The mean scores of time spent for scaling and root planing by the Gracey curette, ultrasonic and rotary instrument groups in seconds were 42.50, 35.83 and 54.50, respectively. Conclusions: All the three instruments, namely Gracey curette, ultrasonic tip and rotary bur, were effective in mechanical debridement of the root surface. The results favored the use of rotary instruments for root planing to achieve a smooth, clean root surface; however, the use of rotary instrument was more time consuming, which might limit its use in clinical practice.

Background: Type1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) results from autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing β cells and is characterized by the presence of insulitis and β-cell autoantibodies. Up to one third of patients develop an autoimmune polyglandular syndrome (APS). Presence of other autoimmune disorders in patients with T1DM has been associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Hypoglycemia resulting from concurrent hypothyroidism or adrenal crisis can be dangerous; starting replacement therapy for hypothyroidism may result in adrenal crisis if background hypocortisolism is not recognized. Early detection of antibodies and latent organ-specific dysfunction is advocated to alert physicians to take appropriate action in order to prevent full-blown disease. Aims: The objectives of this study were to assess the concurrence of various autoimmune disorders in patients with T1DM, to review the concept and detect the overt forms of Autoimmune Thyroid Disease (AITD), Addison’s Disease (AD), Vitamin B 12, vitiligo in T1DM and to find their correlation according to age and sex of the patients. Methods: It is a retrospective study where medical records between January 2007-June 2010 of all the patients diagnosed with T1DM, followed up at Department of Endocrinology were reviewed to find out the presence of (AD), AITD, vitiligo, Vitamin B12 deficiency and Primary Gonadal Failure, which were diagnosed clinically with available investigational procedures. Results: A total of 100 cases of T1DM were evaluated during the present study. The age group of patients ranged from 8 to 40 years, with the average being 21.56 years. 64% of the patients were males and the rest were females. 29 % of T1DM subjects had AITD (Hashimoto’s or Graves’disease), 5% were diagnosed with Vitamin B12 deficiency, 4% had AD, and 6% showed Vitiligo. 28 % had family history of autoimmune endocrinopathy. Conclusion: The commonest autoimmune disorder associated with T1DM found in our study was AITD. Because genetic/ autoantibodies testing is not a feasible option, it is important to screen them with best available laboratory facilities and clinical assessment in view of high prevalence of associated autoimmune conditions.

Background: The effect of thyroid status on insulin sensitivity is of great interest but despite various studies there is conflicting data on this subject. Hypothyroidism has been associated with disorders of glucose and insulin metabolism involving defective insulin secretion in response to glucose, hyperinsulinemia, altered peripheral glucose disposal and insulin resistance. Thyroid dysfunction leads to alterations in glucose and lipid metabolism which is an important risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. The dyslipidemia and insulin resistance should be managed aggressively to reduce the impending risk. Objectives: The prime objectives of the study were as follows: 1. To compare and correlate insulin resistance levels with T3, T4, and TSH in hypothyroidism patients. 2. To compare and correlate lipid profile with T3, T4, and TSH in hypothyroidism patients with healthy controls. Materials and Methods: Forty hypothyroidism patients and Forty healthy age and sex matched controls in the age group of 18 to 45 years were taken for the study. The venous blood samples collected were used for estimation of thyroid hormones, insulin, glucose and lipid profile. Results and Discussion: There is significant increase in insulin, Homa-IR and glucose levels in hypothyroidism cases when compared to controls. Cholesterol, LDL, VLDL and triglycerides were significantly increased, whereas HDL was significantly decreased in hypothyroidism cases when compared with controls. Insulin was moderately correlated with cholesterol but there was no correlation with other lipid profile parameters in hypothyroidism patients. Homa-IR was significantly correlated with TSH in hypothyroidism cases when compared with controls. TSH was significantly correlated with cholesterol and LDL in hypothyroidism cases (both clinical and subclinical) when compared with controls. The present study helps to evaluate changes in insulin resistance and lipid risk factors. These factors should be managed aggressively to reduce the impending risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Gliomas are the most common and aggressive of brain tumors in adults. Cancer stem cells (CSC) contribute to chemoresistance in many solid tumors including gliomas. The function of prostate apoptosis response-4 (Par-4) as a pro-apoptotic protein is well documented in many cancers; however, its role in CSC remains obscure. In this study, we aimed to explore the role of Par-4 in drug-induced cytotoxicity using human glioma stem cell line--HNGC-2 and primary culture (G1) derived from high grade glioma. We show that among the panel of drugs- lomustine, carmustine, UCN-01, oxaliplatin, temozolomide and tamoxifen (TAM) screened, only TAM induced cell death and up-regulated Par-4 levels significantly. TAM-induced apoptosis was confirmed by PARP cleavage, Annexin V and propidium iodide staining and caspase-3 activity. Knock down of Par-4 by siRNA inhibited cell death by TAM, suggesting the role of Par-4 in induction of apoptosis. We also demonstrate that the mechanism involves break down of mitochondrial membrane potential, down regulation of Bcl-2 and reduced activation of Akt and ERK 42/44. Secretory Par-4 and GRP-78 were significantly expressed in HNGC-2 cells on exposure to TAM and specific antibodies to these molecules inhibited cell death suggesting that extrinsic Par-4 is important in TAM-induced apoptosis. Interestingly, TAM decreased the expression of neural stem cell markers--Nestin, Bmi1, Vimentin, Sox2, and Musashi in HNGC-2 cell line and G1 cells implicating its potential as a stemness inhibiting drug. Based on these data and our findings that enhanced levels of Par-4 sensitize the resistant glioma stem cells to drug-induced apoptosis, we propose that Par-4 may be explored for evaluating anti-tumor agents in CSC.

We report the synthesis and characterization of bis(diiminate)-supported tricoordinated zinc complexes ( 1-4 ) and demonstrate the catalytic activity of one representative compound in the hydroboration of nitriles and carbodiimides using pinacolborane (HBpin). Experimental and theoretical studies were performed to elucidate the reaction mechanism. Our findings indicate that the hydroboration reaction initiates with the formation of a tricoordinated zinc hydride intermediate, followed by the subsequent attack of nitriles and carbodiimides. This leads to the formation of a four-membered metallacycle before the release of the diborylated amine. This work provides access to new types of zinc complexes and highlights its effectiveness in the hydroboration of nitriles and carbodiimides, offering a milder alternative to existing reduction methods., Competing Interests: The authors declare no competing financial interest., (© 2025 The Authors. Published by American Chemical Society.)

A series of N,O donor-based mono- and binuclear four-coordinated boron complexes were synthesized. Depending on the substitution and spacer, these complexes exhibit intense blue, green and yellow emission in solution states. Notably, the fluorescence quantum yields (Φ F ) and fluorescence decay (lifetime, τ) of mononuclear boron complexes (2 a-2 e) were higher than the binuclear boron complexes (2 f-2 k). The lowest lifetime and quantum yield in binuclear boron complexes were due to intramolecular rotation induced non radiative processes. The disulphide spacer-based boron complexes 2 i-2 k showed aggregation-caused quenching in the THF/H 2 O mixture whereas no other complexes were ACQ responsive. These complexes show large Stokes shift, one of them i. e. 2 e has the highest Stokes shift of 130 nm. Further, the electrochemical study suggests the presence of two redox incidences. Theoretical studies show close corroboration between the TD-DFT computed and experimentally measured absorption maxima as well as DFT (GIAO) calculated and experimentally measured 11 B NMR values. This complements the appropriate selection of the theoretical methods to shed light on the electronic transitions in the mono- and binuclear BF 2 complexes., (© 2024 Wiley-VCH GmbH.)

A series of boron difluoro bis(diiminate) complexes have been prepared and used to obtain triflate substituted fluoroborane complexes. The corresponding well-defined bis(borenium) cations were subsequently synthesized and structurally authenticated. We are also presenting the first experimental and theoretical study of bis(borenium) cations that are derivative of cationic borinic acid.

Objective: To review the effects of the ketogenic diet on epilepsy in children and adolescents., Data Sources: A literature search was conducted in PubMed with no publication date or language restrictions based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta Analyses guidelines. Keywords used included children , adolescent , ketogenic diet , epilepsy , and seizure ., Study Selection: After excluding articles that did not meet the inclusion criteria, such as missing variables of study, adult population, and nonrandomized clinical trials, a total of 12 studies were included in the final review., Data Extraction: Data on study design, duration, sample size, population, and type of intervention were collected using a standard template., Results: The ketogenic diet and its modified versions were noted to have beneficial effects in reduction of seizure frequency and severity, with manageable adverse effects such as gastrointestinal disturbances, dehydration, dyslipidemia, hyperuricemia, infection, and metabolic acidosis., Conclusions: Depending on patient compliance and comorbidities, all variations of the ketogenic diet were found to be helpful for seizure treatment, whether as an additive or an alternative treatment option, for children and adolescents with epilepsy., Prim Care Companion CNS Disord 2024;26(3):23r03661 ., Author affiliations are listed at the end of this article., (© Copyright 2024 Physicians Postgraduate Press, Inc.)

In this series we report the structure-based design, synthesis and anticancer activity evaluation of a series of eighteen cyclopropylamine containing cyanopyrimidine derivatives. The computational predictions of ADMET properties revealed appropriate aqueous solubility, high GI absorption, no BBB permeability, no Lipinski rule violations, medium total clearance and no mutagenic, tumorigenic, irritant and reproductive toxic risks for most of the compounds. Compounds VIIb, VIIi and VIIm emerged as the most potent anticancer agents among all compounds evaluated against 60 cancer cell lines through the one-dose (10 µM) sulforhodamine B assay. Further, the multiple dose cell viability studies against cancer cell lines MOLT-4, A549 and HCT-116 revealed results consistent with the one-dose assay, besides sparing normal cell line HEK-293. The three potent compounds also displayed potent LSD1 inhibitory activity with IC 50 values of 2.25, 1.80 and 6.08 µM. The n-propyl-thio/isopropyl-thio group bonded to the pyrimidine ring and unsubstituted/ electron donating group (at the para- position) attached to the phenyl ring resulted in enhanced anticancer activity. However, against leukemia cancer, the electron donating isopropyl group remarkably enhanced anti-cancer activity. Our findings provide important leads, which merit further optimization to result in better cancer therapeutics., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)