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Decomposition of arbitrary graphs into subgraphs of small size is assuming importance in the literature. There are several studies on the isomorphic decomposition of graphs into paths, cycles, trees, stars, sunlet etc. Fork is a tree obtained by subdividing any edge of a star of size three exactly once. In this paper, we investigate the necessary and sufficient for the fork-decomposition of Strong product of graphs.

Internet of things plays a major role in the health care domain, It not only helps in monitoring the patient continuously but also useful in drawing inferences from those information which will be helpful to treat the patient with appropriate treatment, This work aims at delivering at most care to the elderly people who would like to live independent living, the idea is deploying the sensors in the places where the individual lives and monitoring their activities through internet of things, the data acquired are saved in the IoT cloud that can be used to draw some inferences about their health behaviour and daily activities through data analytics, those data will be useful for the doctors to understand the elderly people health conditions and the same will be intimated to the care takers under the circumstances when the immediate attention is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Glass ionomer cement (GIC) serves as a crucial biomaterial in dental restoration, offering applications in filling, lining, and adhesive procedures. Nevertheless, its mechanical properties often fall short, particularly in regions subjected to considerable stress. To address this issue, zirconia nanoparticles are incorporated at specific levels. Aim To assess the antimicrobial efficacy and compressive resilience of GIC modified with zirconia nanoparticles synthesized through green synthesis methods. Material and methods Zirconia nanoparticles were synthesized via a green method utilizing aloe vera extract in solvent form. These nanoparticles were then mixed into GIC at different concentration levels. Group I incorporated zirconia nanoparticles at a concentration of 3%, Group II at 5%, and Group III at 10%, while Group IV was the control, consisting of traditional GIC. Following that, samples were prepared and underwent characterization through various analytical techniques. The ability to inhibit microbial growth and the compressive resilience of the groups were examined. Microbial inhibition against the bacterial strains was assessed through minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), and the ability to withstand compression was gauged by measuring the maximum force the specimen could endure before fracturing. Data underwent analysis with Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, IBM Corp., Version 24.0, Armonk, NY). Repeated measures of analysis of variance (ANOVA) were utilized to gauge average MIC values and compressive strength. Following this, Tukey's post hoc test was employed for pairwise comparisons. Results The findings indicated, incorporating zirconia nanoparticles into GIC led to an improvement in its antimicrobial effectiveness, with a noticeable enhancement observed as the weight percent (% wt) of the additive increased. This improvement was notably noticeable in its effectiveness against Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus , exceeding that of the control with a noteworthy distinction. Furthermore, there were significant enhancements in compressive strength, in Group I (180.48 ± 1.02), Group II (191.25 ± 0.52), and Group III (197.52 ± 0.75), compared to Group IV (167.22 ± 1.235), with significant disparities (p < 0.05). Conclusion The research illustrates that introducing green-synthesized zirconia nanoparticles into GIC leads to heightened bactericidal potency and compressive resilience when contrasted with the control group (Group IV). Notably, the highest concentration of 10% demonstrated the most favourable antimicrobial attributes alongside enhanced strength. Consequently, integrating green-synthesized zirconia nanoparticles into GIC holds potential as a proficient material. In future studies, there should be an exploration of molecular chemistry and bonding mechanisms to enhance our comprehension of its capabilities., Competing Interests: Human subjects: All authors have confirmed that this study did not involve human participants or tissue. Animal subjects: All authors have confirmed that this study did not involve animal subjects or tissue. Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Jain et al.)

Background Glass ionomer cement (GIC) plays a vital role in dental restorative procedures, serving purposes such as filling, luting, and adhesion. However, its inadequate mechanical properties pose challenges, especially in areas experiencing significant stress. To overcome this limitation, nanohydroxyapatite (nHA), known for its bioactive phosphate content, is added to the GIC at specific concentrations to improve its properties. Aim  We aim to evaluate the antimicrobial property and compressive strength of green-mediated nHA-incorporated GIC. Material and methods Green synthesis of hydroxyapatite nanoparticles was prepared using Moringa oleifera extract in a solvent form and eggshell waste served as the calcium source. These nHA powders were then integrated into the GIC at varying concentrations (3%, 5%, and 10%) designated as Group I, Group II, and Group III, respectively, while Group IV (control) consisted of conventional GIC. Specimens were fabricated and subjected to chemical structure analysis through Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The antimicrobial activity and compressive strength of all groups were investigated. The antimicrobial activity against Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus was evaluated through the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) test, while compressive strength was evaluated by measuring the maximum force endured by the specimen before fracturing. Data analysis utilized IBM SPSS Statistics software, employing repeated measures ANOVA to determine mean MIC values and compressive strength, with Tukey's posthoc test for pairwise comparisons. Results The results of the study showed that the antimicrobial efficacy of nHA GIC improved with increasing weight percent (% wt) of the additive, exhibiting significantly enhanced activity against Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus compared to the control group (Group IV) with statistical significance (p < 0.05). Moreover, the compressive strength exhibited notable enhancements in the modified groups, including Group I (172.55 ± 0.76), Group II (178.16 ± 0.760), and Group III (182.45 ± 0.950), when compared to the control (162.46 ± 1.606), with statistically significant differences (p < 0.05). Conclusion The study demonstrates that the incorporation of green-mediated nHA-containing GIC results in superior antimicrobial efficacy and compressive strength compared to the control group (Group IV). In particular, the highest concentration of nHA-modified GIC (10%) exhibited the most favorable antimicrobial properties along with increased strength. Therefore, utilizing green-mediated nHA in the GIC shows promise as an effective restorative material. Future investigations should delve into the molecular chemistry and bonding mechanisms to further explore its potential., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright © 2024, Ilancheran et al.)

Background Glass ionomer cement (GIC) demonstrates biocompatibility and fluoride ion release, indicating their potential to inhibit a wide range of bacteria, although this remains uncertain. Lemongrass and neem are recognized for their potent antimicrobial activity against numerous pathogenic microorganisms. The objective of the study is to evaluate the antimicrobial effectiveness and compressive strength of GIC modified with neem and lemongrass. Methodology Lemongrass and neem were incorporated into conventional GIC at varying concentrations. Group I - neem-modified GIC (0.5%, 1%, 2%), group II - lemongrass-modified GIC (0.5%, 1%, 2%), and group III (non-modified GIC as a control group). The disk-shaped specimens were then compared to unmodified GIC (control). Antimicrobial effectiveness was assessed using the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) assay against Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus . Compressive strength was assessed using a Universal Testing Machine, with a crosshead speed set to 0.5 mm per minute. Statistical analysis was conducted with a significance level set at p < 0.05. Results Neem modification displayed superior antimicrobial effectiveness against both Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus at all concentrations when compared to the control, with 2% showing the least mean value of 0.262. In contrast, lemongrass modification exhibited a significant difference in effectiveness against Streptococcus mutans but no difference against Lactobacillus . Neem modification demonstrated superior performance compared to lemongrass (p < 0.05). Both modified groups showed no significant impact on compressive strength. Conclusions Neem-modified GIC demonstrated the highest antimicrobial efficacy against Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus without altering its compressive strength. This suggests its potential as a promising alternative material in restorative dentistry. Additional in vivo investigations are needed to assess the extended-term effectiveness of the material., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright © 2024, Jaikumar Ram et al.)

Background and objective Glass ionomer cement (GIC), also known as polyalkenoate cement, has been extensively used in dentistry for both luting and restorative purposes. Despite being the first choice for aesthetic restorations due to their chemical bonding ability to teeth, GICs have faced challenges such as low mechanical properties, abrasion resistance, and sensitivity to moisture, leading to the search for improved materials.  This study aims to assess the effects of thermocycling on the compressive, flexural strength, and microhardness of green-mediated nanocomposite-modified GIC in comparison to traditional GIC. Methodology Green-mediated nanoparticles, consisting of chitosan, titanium, zirconia, and hydroxyapatite (Ch-Ti-Zr-HA), were synthesized using a one-pot synthesis technique to form nanocomposites. These nanocomposites were then incorporated into GIC specimens in varying concentrations (3%, 5%, and 10%), denoted as Group I, Group II, and Group III, respectively. Group IV served as the control, consisting of conventional GIC. To assess the performance of the novel restorative materials over an extended period, compressive strength, flexural strength, and microhardness were measured before and after thermocycling using a universal material testing machine. Furthermore, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis was carried out following the thermocycling process. The collected data were subjected to statistical analysis through one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and paired t-tests. Results  The findings demonstrated that, in comparison to the control group, both the mean compressive strength and flexural strength, as well as hardness, were notably higher for the 10% and 5% nanocomposite-modified GIC specimens before and after thermocycling ( P  < 0.05). Notably, there was no notable difference observed between the 5% and 10% concentrations ( P > 0.05). These results suggest that incorporating green-mediated nanocomposites (Ch-Ti-Zr-HA) modified GIC at either 5% or 10% concentration levels leads to improved mechanical properties, indicating their potential as promising alternatives in dental restorative materials. Conclusions Based on our findings, it can be inferred that the 10% and 5% concentrations of green-mediated (Ch-Ti-Zr-HA) modified GIC exhibit superior compressive and flexural strength compared to conventional GIC. Additionally, analysis of the scanning electron microscope (SEM) morphology revealed that green-mediated GIC displays smoother surface characteristics in contrast to conventional GIC. These results underscore the potential advantages of utilizing green-mediated nanocomposite-modified GIC in dental applications, suggesting enhanced mechanical properties and surface quality over conventional., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright © 2024, Ravi et al.)

Background Glass ionomer cement (GIC) is widely recognized for its self-adhesive characteristics and biocompatibility, making it commonly used as a restorative material. However, challenges related to limited antibacterial effectiveness and relatively low mechanical properties have hindered its widespread clinical use. Clove and ginger are recognized for their potent antimicrobial activity against numerous pathogenic microorganisms. The present study aims to enhance the clinical applicability of GIC by modifying it with clove and ginger extract. Aim The objective of the study is to assess the antimicrobial effectiveness and compressive strength of GIC modified with ginger and clove extract. Materials and methods Ginger and clove extracts were prepared and incorporated into conventional GIC at three concentrations for each, creating ginger-modified GIC groups (Group A, Group B, and Group C) and clove-modified GIC groups (Group D, Group E, and Group F), with Group G as the control (conventional GIC without modification). The antimicrobial assessment was conducted on disc-shaped GIC specimens (3.0 mm height x 6.0 mm diameter) prepared using molds. Bacterial strains were used to evaluate antimicrobial properties, with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) assays conducted at intervals of one to four hours for both modified and unmodified groups. Compressive strength specimens were prepared using cylindrical molds (6.0 mm height × 4.0 mm diameter), according to the ISO (International Organization for Standardization) guidelines. The evaluation was conducted using a Zwick universal testing machine (ElectroPuls® E3000, Instron, Bangalore, India), with the highest force at the point of specimen fracture recorded to determine compressive strength. Statistical analysis was conducted utilizing a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) alongside Tukey's post hoc test, with a significance threshold set at p < 0.01. Results The antimicrobial effectiveness of clove and ginger-modified GIC was assessed through a MIC assay, revealing a statistically significant improvement in antimicrobial potency against Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus within the modified groups compared to the control group (p < 0.01). Increased extract concentration correlated with enhanced antimicrobial activity. Clove-modified GIC exhibited superior antimicrobial efficacy compared to ginger extract. Compressive strength was higher in clove-modified GIC groups (p < 0.01), with Group F showing a maximum value of 175.88 MPa, while other modified groups demonstrated similar results to the control, with a value of 166.81 MPa (p > 0.01). Conclusion The study concludes that both clove-modified GIC and ginger-modified GIC exhibited antimicrobial activity against Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus species. The antimicrobial activity was notably higher in clove-modified GIC compared to ginger-modified GIC. Additionally, the compressive strength of clove-modified GIC surpassed all other groups. Thus, clove-modified GIC emerges as a promising restorative material for addressing recurrent caries. Future investigation is necessary to assess the long-term durability of the material., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright © 2024, Paulraj et al.)

Background According to existing literature, introducing natural antibacterial agents into glass ionomer cement (GIC) has been associated with potential negative impacts on their strength properties. Hence, this study aims to explore the antibacterial effectiveness of glass ionomer cement enriched with Acacia nilotica and subsequently assess its compressive strength characteristics. Aim The objective of the study is to assess the antimicrobial effectiveness and compressive strength of glass ionomer cement modified with Acacia nilotica . Materials and methods  The plant extract was incorporated into the conventional glass ionomer cement in three different proportions (powder GIC : extract: liquid GIC ), divided into group I, group II, and group III with ratios of 2:1:1, 3:1:2, and 3:2:1 respectively. Additionally, a control group denoted as group IV was included without any modifications. Subsequently, the specimens were prepared, and their chemical structure was analyzed using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), followed by testing for antimicrobial activity using the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) assay against Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus . The assessment of compressive strength was conducted following ISO 9917-1:2007 standards, and the recorded values represent the maximum force the specimen could withstand before fracturing. Results The antimicrobial effectiveness against Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus exhibited a notable increase in all modified specimens compared to the control group, with a significance level of p<0.05. Additionally, significant improvements in compressive strength were observed in group III (183.49±2.99) when compared to the remaining groups. The higher concentrations of the plant extract resulted in superior outcomes. Conclusion Therefore, the incorporation of Acacia nilotica into GIC shows promising potential as a restorative material. These investigations can provide valuable insights into the material's performance and durability, contributing to its potential application in dental restorations. Future research is needed to thoroughly investigate the bonding chemistry between Acacia nilotica and GIC, as well as to assess the extent of microleakage., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright © 2024, Paulraj et al.)

Background Discoloration affects glass ionomer cement (GIC) color stability due to its brittle nature and microporosity. To counter this, incorporating alternative materials is essential for maintaining color stability. Aim This study aims to determine the color stability and gloss of GIC modified with bioactive chitosan, titanium, zirconia, and hydroxyapatite nanoparticles before and after artificial aging. Materials and methods  The study was conducted at Saveetha Research Centre, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, located in Chennai, India. Green-mediated chitosan, titanium, zirconia, and hydroxyapatite (Ch-Ti-Zr-HA) nanoparticles were synthesized using the one-pot synthesis technique. Forty-eight disc-shaped specimens were prepared by incorporating the obtained nanoparticles (nanocomposite) into the GIC, with a diameter of 5 mm and thickness of 2 mm. The specimens were prepared in different concentrations (3%, 5%, and 10%) designated as group I, group II, and group III, respectively. Group IV, serving as the control, consisted of conventional GIC without any modifications. Following preparation, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) microanalysis confirmed sample elements, and the specimens were submerged in distilled water for a duration of 24 hours prior to the commencement of testing. Subsequently, the specimens underwent artificial aging (thermocycling), between temperatures of 5°C and 55°C, for a total of 30,000 cycles, with a 30-second dwell time. Color change and gloss characteristics were assessed both after 24 hours and following thermocycling using a spectrophotometer and glossometer, respectively. The average color change parameter (ΔE) was measured using Adobe Photoshop. The data obtained were subjected to statistical analysis using an unpaired t-test. Results Significant color stability variations were observed post thermocycling (P = 0.001). Group 2 (5%) exhibited minimal delta E difference (0.508 ± 0.105), indicating superior color stability, while group 4 (control) had maximum difference (1.15 ± 0.187), indicating lower stability. Gloss tests confirmed GIC's polishability, where there were significant differences among all the groups. Conclusion It can be concluded that 5% nanoparticle-modified GIC has better color stability and gloss than conventional GIC. Further studies are needed to analyze the color stability and gloss through dentifrices and other beverages., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright © 2024, E et al.)

Background: Glass ionomer cement (GIC) restorations are commonly used in primary dentition, due to their aesthetic appeal, self-adhesive nature, and biocompatibility. However, the material's limited antibacterial activity and inadequate mechanical strength highlight the necessity for modifying the material., Aim: The study aims to evaluate and compare the antimicrobial potency and compressive strength of GIC-incorporated Miswak extract with that of conventional GIC., Materials and Methods: After obtaining the Miswak extract, a modified GIC was formulated by combining the extract with the conventional GIC powder and liquid components, in three different ratios (Powder: Extract and Liquid), Group I (2:1:1), Group II (3:1:2), Group III (3:2:1), and the Group IV as control, which consist of unmodified/conventional GIC. To evaluate and compare the antibacterial efficacy of the modified and unmodified GIC, standard strains of Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus were utilized. For each group, the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) assay was tested. For the evaluation of compressive strength, cylindrical moulds were utilized in compliance with ISO 9917-1:2007 standards and tested using the universal testing machine (Instron, ElectroPuls®, Bangalore, IND). The highest force exerted at the point of specimen fracture was recorded to calculate the compressive strength values in MPa. The data obtained were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, IBM Corp., Version 24.0, Armonk, NY) software. The statistical analysis was conducted utilizing repeated measures of analysis of variance (ANOVA) to calculate the mean MIC values and compressive strength, with pairwise comparisons assessed using Tukey's post hoc test., Results: The results proved that the antimicrobial properties of Miswak containing GIC performed better against S. mutans and Lactobacillus with a statistically significant difference when compared with group IV (p<0.05), it has been found that an increase in the concentration of extract increased the antimicrobial potency. Significant results were obtained in compressive strength where Group II (41.49±3.6) and Group III (15.23±4.96) proved to be weaker than the control (62.69±2.58), while Group I showed no differences from the control group (p>0.05)., Conclusion: It can be concluded that Group I was found to be better in terms of both antimicrobial properties and compressive strength, where no significant difference in compressive strength was identified when comparing Group I with Group IV. Thus, the overall study depicts that a lesser concentration of extract can be the best option in terms of good antimicrobial properties without altering its strength. Hence, the Miswak containing GIC could be a promising restorative material; further studies should include considering intraoral variables such as masticatory stress, moisture levels and in-vivo tests of this combination., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright © 2024, Devi et al.)

Background: Glass ionomer cements are commonly utilized in dental restorations due to their biocompatibility, strong chemical bond with dental tissues, and ability to resist tooth decay. However, their effectiveness can be compromised by the presence of persistent cavity-causing microorganisms. Therefore, it is essential to consider incorporating antibacterial agents into these restorative materials. Swertia chirayita (S. chirayita) and Terminalia arjuna (T. arjuna) are well-known for their rich composition of phytochemicals that can potentially inhibit the growth of bacteria. Hence, the current research is focused on modifying glass ionomer cement with Chirayita and T. arjuna extracts to enhance its antibacterial properties., Aim: This research aims to determine the antimicrobial efficacy and compressive strength of glass ionomer cement modified with Chirayita and T. arjuna extracts., Methodology: Plant extracts were prepared from both Chirayita and T. arjuna. The powder and liquid components of conventional glass ionomer cement (GIC) were mixed, followed by adding these extracts at three different concentrations. To assess antimicrobial properties, typical strains of Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus were employed to test both the modified GIC and unmodified GIC (used as a control). For Chirayita and T. arjuna-modified GIC, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) assays were conducted at three different concentrations. MIC was assessed at various time intervals ranging from 1 to 4 hours for modified and unmodified groups. Moreover, compressive strength was measured using cylindrical molds. The highest force exerted at the point of specimen fracture was recorded to calculate the compressive strength values in megapascal (MPa)., Results: The antimicrobial efficiency of Chirata and T. arjuna-modified GIC was evaluated using a MIC assay, indicating a statistically significant enhancement in antimicrobial potency against S. mutans and Lactobacillus within the modified groups in contrast to the control group (p<0.05). However, there were no notable changes in compressive strength when comparing the control group to the modified groups (p>0.05)., Conclusion: The antimicrobial effectiveness against S. mutans was observed to be greater in both T. arjuna and Chirayita-modified GIC. In the case of Lactobacillus, Chirayita-modified GIC exhibited more pronounced antimicrobial properties compared to T. arjuna. Importantly, both extracts did not alter the compressive strength of Conventional (unmodified) GIC. Hence, Chirayita-modified GIC appears to be a promising restorative material for combatting recurrent caries. Additional investigation is required to assess the material's stability over an extended period., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright © 2024, Devi et al.)

Goodpasture syndrome is a rare autoimmune disease which affects young adults with a male preponderance and can be triggered at any point in life with a classical clinical triad of rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis, diffuse pulmonary haemorrhage and circulating anti-glomerular basement membrane antibody (anti-GBM antibody). Here we are presenting a case of a young man with hypertension in his early 20s who presented with fatigue, recurrent haemoptysis, breathlessness and decreased urine output without features of infection. He was diagnosed at an early stage of the disease with the help of clinical, serological and radiological findings. An early diagnosis with effective treatment using plasma exchange, intravenous high-dose methylprednisolone, and cyclophosphamide showed a rapid improvement in the patient's condition with an immediate decrease in anti-GBM titres and proteinuria., Competing Interests: Competing interests: None declared., (© BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2024. No commercial re-use. See rights and permissions. Published by BMJ.)

Developing biomaterials for hip prostheses is challenging and requires dedicated attention from researchers. Hip replacement is an inevitable and remarkable orthopedic therapy for enhancing the quality of patient life for those who have arthritis as well as trauma. Generally, five types of hip replacement procedures are successfully performed in the current medical market: total hip replacements, hip resurfacing, hemiarthroplasty, bipolar, and dual mobility systems. The average life span of artificial hip joints is about 15 years, and several studies have been conducted over the last 60 years to improve the performance and thereby increase the lifespan of artificial hip joints. Present-day prosthetic hip joints are linked to the wide availability of biomaterials. Metals, ceramics, and polymers are some of the most promising types of biomaterials; nevertheless, each biomaterial has advantages and disadvantages. Metals and ceramics fail in most applications owing to stress shielding and the emission of wear debris; ongoing research is being carried out to find a remedy to these unfavorable responses. Recent research found that polymers and composites based on polymers are significant alternative materials for artificial joints. With growing research and several biomaterials, recent reviews lag in effectively addressing hip implant materials' individual mechanical, tribological, and physiological behaviors. This Review comprehensively investigates the historical evolution of artificial hip replacement procedures and related biomaterials' mechanical, tribological, and biological characteristics. In addition, the most recent advances are also discussed to stimulate and guide future researchers as they seek more effective methods and synthesis of innovative biomaterials for hip arthroplasty application.

This paper discusses about the design and analysis of a novel multi-cavity tubular receiver developed for small- and medium-scale concentrated solar power applications from the existing basic baffle-plated volumetric receiver model which is used in large-scale applications. The design and analysis work has been completed to enhance the thermal performance of cavity receivers for the average solar power input of 12 kW with a dish concentrator of 15 m 2 aperture area. This was carried out by replacing the baffle plates from the conventional basic volumetric receiver with multi-cavity tubes, keeping the heat transfer area as constant. The tubular arrangement improves the flow and heat transfer characteristics through minimized pressure drop. The receiver models with aluminum, copper, and silicon carbide materials have been analyzed using commercially available CFD software ANSYS-FLUENT for different flow rates of air and water. The computational analysis reveals that the thermal performance of a modified multi-cavity tubular receiver model made up of SiC material is better than receiver model with aluminum and copper materials. The maximum energy efficiency of 21.11% and 75.81% are achieved by the heat transfer fluids air and water, respectively. The maximum efficiency is achieved at the flow rate of 1.35 l/min and 0.9 l/min for the heat transfer fluids air and water, respectively. The study concludes that the multi-cavity tubular configurations may be well suited for small-scale CSP applications than the volumetric receivers with foams, rods, honeycomb, and baffle-plated structures.

Background: The antimicrobial activity of restorative materials has a major role in preventing recurrent caries., Aim: To assess the antimicrobial activity of triphala and propolis-modified glass ionomer cement (GIC) against Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus ., Materials and Methods: The samples were prepared using cylindrical molds (6 mm in diameter and 2 mm in thickness). A total of 30 samples were prepared containing 10 samples in each group. Group I, 10 samples of glass ionomer with aqueous extract of triphala were prepared; group II, 10 samples of glass ionomer with 50% of ethanolic extract of propolis (EEP); and group III as control consisting of 10 samples of glass ionomer. The samples were placed in to agar plates containing inoculum of S. mutans and Lactobacillus and incubated at 37°C for 48 hours and using a digital caliper, zones of inhibition formed around specimens were measured., Results: Data obtained were analyzed using nonparametric Kruskal-Wallis test followed by pairwise comparison was done using Dunn-Bonferroni test. Group I and group II showed highest antimicrobial efficacy against S. mutans and Lactobacillus with no statistical significant difference, i.e., ( p value > 0.05) but in both groups I and II, there was a statistical significant difference when comparing with group III i.e., ( p < 0.05)., Conclusion: Thus, triphala and propolis-modified GIC provided higher antibacterial effect with increased level of inhibition against the S. mutans and Lactobacillus ; hence, it can be used as a choice of restorative material to treat dental caries. Further studies are required to determine the physical and mechanical characteristics of the material., How to Cite This Article: Paulraj J, Nagar P. Antimicrobial Efficacy of Triphala and Propolis-modified Glass Ionomer Cement: An In Vitro Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2020;13(5):457-462., Competing Interests: Source of support: Nil Conflict of interest: None, (Copyright © 2020; Jaypee Brothers Medical Publishers (P) Ltd.)

Diaminocyclohexane-Pt(ii)-phenalenyl complexes (1 and 2) showed an appropriate balance between efficacy and toxicity. Compound 2 showed nearly two-fold higher tumour growth inhibition than oxaliplatin in a murine NSCLC tumour model, when a combined drug development approach was used. The fluorescent properties of phenalenone were utilized to understand the mechanistic details of the drug.

Spilanthes spp. are popular, over-the-counter remedies; they are sold over the internet under various names and are widely used in traditional medicine in various cultures. This review will summarize the important reports on the ethnopharmacology, botany, phytochemistry, and pharmacological properties as described in the literature from recent years (1920 to 2013). Spilanthes spp. are used for more than 60 types of disorders. They are reported to contain a number of biologically active phytochemicals, although a large number of ethnopharmacological uses have been documented; only a few of these species have been investigated for their chemical and biological activities. The studies are carried out mainly on Spilanthes extracts and a few metabolites substantiate the uses of these plants in traditional medicine. Well-conducted pharmacological studies are still needed for several traditional indications, and the mechanisms of action by which the plant extracts and the active compounds exert their pharmacological effects remain to be studied. They are predominantly used as extracts in personal care products, traditional medicines, and the pharmaceutical and culinary areas. Suggestions are made regarding some of the possible mechanisms of action as to how the known compounds may exert their biological activity.