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Introduction: Three-dimensional filling of the root canal system is widely recognized as crucial for the success of endodontic treatment, the main reason for endodontic failure persists as microleakage that happens between the filling material in the root canal and the walls of the canal. A significant factor contributing to microleakage subsequent to endodontic procedures is the leakage of blood from the apex of the tooth. Therefore, it is imperative to provide a good apical seal to prevent reinfection by spread of microbial toxins. Root canal sealers combined with core obturating material are aimed to create a fluid tight apical seal. Aim: To evaluate the sealing ability of MTA Fillapex, CeraSeal, CeraSeal-B and AH Plus. Objectives: To evaluate and compare the sealing ability of MTA Fillapex, CeraSeal, CeraSeal-B and AH Plus. Material and Methods: Sixty freshly extracted single rooted sound human teeth were selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. The samples were divided by simple random sampling method into 4 groups with 15 teeth in each group namely Group A: MTA Fillapex, Group B: CeraSeal, Group C: CeraSeal B, Group D: AH Plus. The teeth sealed with respective sealers were obturated using thermoplasticized gutta percha technique. The samples were stored at 37°C and 100% humidity to assure the setting of the sealer. The samples were immersed in 2% methylene blue solution for 7 days. The linear measurement of dye penetration from the root apex to the greatest coronal extent was evaluated under stereomicroscope at 20 X magnification. Results: After complete statistical evaluation, it was inferred that the intergroup comparison showed MTA Fillapex, CeraSeal, AH Plus to have statistically non-significant mean difference (p>0.05). Cera Seal B had highest mean dye penetration (2.59 ± 1.11) and the difference was statistically significant (p

Abstract A core component of every blood program is the supply of safe blood and blood products. The elevated risk of transmission through these products is due to parvovirus B19 (B19V) resistance to the virus inactivation procedures. Our study aimed to screen asymptomatic blood donors for B19V at a tertiary care hospital in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, between September 2020 and June 2021. Sera from 106 healthy blood donors who tested negative for Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), Hepatitis C virus (HCV), syphilis, and malaria were tested for anti-B19V IgM and IgG using a qualitative indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). In the study population, 23.5% (n = 25) of donors tested IgM positive, 38.6% (n = 41) tested IgG positive, and 7.5% (n = 8) tested positive for both IgM and IgG. A proportion of 61.3% (n = 65) of the blood donors tested IgG negative, suggesting they had no past B19V infection. B19V DNA was not detected in any of the subjects. The high seroprevalence of IgM indicates that blood donors may have been recently exposed to B19V, potentially posing a risk to immunocompromised individuals and those with hematological stress. Further longitudinal studies with a larger sample size are recommended to better understand the risk of B19V transfusion transmission.

Introduction: With the rising use of medications, Adverse Drug Reactions (ADRs) have emerged as a significant public health issue. Therefore, establishing a robust pharmacovigilance system across the nation has become imperative. The present study focussed to analyse the trends and frequency of ADRs to enhance the safety of drug prescriptions and ensure public health protection. Aim: To assess the pattern of adverse effects, drugs implicated, causality, severity, and outcomes of ADRs reported to the ADR monitoring centre in the Department of Pharmacology, Government TD Medical College, Alappuzha, Kerala, India. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study in which 262 ADRs reported to the Department of Pharmacology, Government TD Medical College, Alappuzha, Kerala, India from May 2022 to April 2023 were analysed for patient demographics, drug and ADR characteristics, and the outcomes of the ADR. Causality and severity assessments of these ADRs were performed using the World Health Organisation (WHO)-Uppsala Monitoring Centre (UMC) scale and the modified Hartwig and Siegel’s scale, respectively. Data were tabulated using Microsoft Excel and expressed as mean, standard deviation, frequency, and percentage as appropriate, with the help of descriptive statistics using Epi Info 7 software. Results: A total of 262 ADRs were analysed. The mean age of the patients was 47.4±20.1 years. The majority were females 160 (61.1%). The intravenous route was the most common route involved in ADRs 158 (59.8%), followed by the oral route 91 (34.5%). Skin reactions accounted for more than half of the ADRs 151 (53.2%), followed by blood dyscrasias 48 (16.9%). Antibiotics were the most common group of implicated drugs 124 (44.9%), followed by anticancer drugs 43 (15.6%) and antitubercular drugs 34 (12.3%). Among antibiotics, cephalosporins (36.3%) were the most frequently encountered, followed by penicillins (30.6%). A total of 148 patients (56.5%) had recovered by the day of reporting, 146 (55.7%) ADRs were found to be ‘possible’ using the WHO-UMC causality scale, and 144 (54.9%) ADRs were classified as moderate severity. Conclusion: The study identified a widespread occurrence of ADRs, some of which increased healthcare costs due to prolonged hospital stays. The high incidence of ADRs from antimicrobials is concerning, as it contributes to antimicrobial resistance. This underscores the urgent need for prudent antimicrobial usage. The present study emphasises the importance of ADR reporting among healthcare workers and the necessity for hospitals to establish ADR reporting strategies for optimal patient care.

Abstract Digital transformation in the health sector can revolutionize a country’s healthcare system. However, the effective sustainability of digital health relies on various factors that influence its implementation. Addressing such implementation challenges is crucial in designing and delivering digital health services. Therefore, this systematic review attempted to identify the potential barriers to the implementation of digital transformation in the health sector of India. Systematic searches were employed across databases PubMed, PsycINFO, Science Direct, Web of Science, and Google Scholar for studies that reported digital transformation in India from inception to December 2022. Following narrative synthesis, studies were assessed for quality using JBI and the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT). Out of 1129 initially identified records, 26 studies that met the inclusion criteria were deemed eligible for final analysis. Although digital transformation in India’s health sector occurred rapidly, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, there are still potential barriers that impede its successful implementation in the country. Barriers identified are mainly associated with limited technological and medical infrastructure, data security and privacy, and a lack of physical examination. The need to address these barriers, recommendations for government and healthcare practitioners, and implications for future research are discussed.

Background: Thyroid cancer (TC) is the most common endocrine cancer and has been increasing over the past decades worldwide. A notable finding is that Kerala's capital Thiruvananthapuram ranks the first among men and the second highest among women in the incidence of TC in India. Reasons for this increase have not been established. Objectives: Here, we investigated the spatiotemporal pattern of TC incidence in Thiruvananthapuram. Materials and Methods: TC incidence data (n = 1937) of Population Based Cancer Registry Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India, between 2012 and 2016, were analyzed for identifying geographical patterns by spatial methods, temporal methods for studying spatial variation in TC incidence, distribution of age, gender, and histology in lowland (coastal), midland, and highland. Results: Spatial clustering of TC incidence was identified consistently near the coastal region based on all geospatial analyses. 56.9%, 23.9%, and 19.2% of TC cases were observed in the coastal, midland, and highland areas, respectively. A significant clustered pattern of TC incidence was revealed by Moran's index I (0.49), high-high clusters by local Moran's, hotspot by Getis-Ord-Gi* (P < 0.05), point pattern analysis by nearest neighbor ratio and kernel density estimation. The relative risk of the significant cluster was obtained as 1.60 (95% confidence interval: 1.03–1.84) by SaTScan analysis. Conclusion: This study identified spatial variations in the pattern of TC cases with significant clusters near the coastal region of Thiruvananthapuram. This would help to pinpoint the high-risk geographical areas of TC and for more effective cancer control programs.

Explaining how a childhood nutrition can influence the development of adult bone cancer is an attractive review in some aspects of public health and preventive medicine. Skeletal growth is primarily determined in formative years and nutritional deficiencies during these years raises susceptibility to bone malignancies in future. This systematic review is aimed at reviewing how deficiencies in some of the macro- and micronutrients affect the bone health in the long run as well as the risks of cancer. This systematic review examines the link between childhood nutrition and later life bone cancers, following PRISMA guidelines, utilizing databases like PubMed and Scopus, and focusing on peer-reviewed studies from 2000-2023. Some of the important nutrients include; protein, calcium and magnesium they are vital in the development of bones as well as the strength of bones. Dietary protein requirement in children affects bone mineralization and insulin-like growth Factor I IGF-I. Calcium is necessary for the development of bones and teeth and also phosphorus needed for DNA synthesis. Lack of these nutrients can make the bones to become weak and acts as a stage where diseases such as osteoporosis can be developed and this makes those affected to be at a higher risk of getting bone cancers like osteosarcoma. Also, various deficiencies including zinc, phosphorus, potassium and other vitamins and minerals affect bone formation and remodelling. These risks increase probably due to the increased intake of fast foods which have led to nutritional imbalances. Digital public health literacy interventions for improving childhood nutrition education and security have to be an all-inclusive program. Measures should also help consumers meet their needs of other essential nutrients especially in the interest-bearing regions. Proper childhood nutrition is essential for establishing strong skeletal foundations, potentially reducing the risk of bone cancers in later life. Ensuring adequate intake of vital nutrients during the formative years can significantly contribute to lifelong bone health and lower the incidence of bone malignancies. Childhood obesity and reduced fruit/vegetable intake are increasing, and nutritional awareness is low even among literates. Public awareness campaigns targeting students about proper nutrition and its role in preventing bone cancer are needed to address health issues and to better long-term outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chlorhexidine is considered a gold standard among the chemical plaque control measures. Recently, a search for a natural alternative having similar effectiveness of that of chlorhexidine is gaining importance due to various side effects reported. Honey is a natural product with antibacterial properties that can be used to improve oral health. Manuka honey (MH) is considered superior due to its antibacterial properties. However, studies pertaining to effectiveness of MH and chlorhexidine on oral health are limited. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of MH and 0.2% chlorhexidine digluconate (CHX) mouthwash on reducing gingivitis and Streptococcus mutans count (SM). Materials and Methods: A randomized controlled trial blinded study was conducted among 12–15 years old children with (Decayed, Missing, Filled Teeth) scores of 1–4, plaque and gingival scores of 1–2 were selected, and an equal number of children (30 each) were randomly allocated to MH and CHX groups. Participants were instructed to rinse 5 ml of MH and 10 ml of CHX twice daily for 14 days. Unstimulated saliva was collected from the children, and plaque and gingival indices were assessed at baseline, 7th day, and 14th day. Unstimulated saliva was subjected to microbiological analysis for SM. Student's t-test and repeated-measures analysis of variance test were applied for inter- and intragroup comparison, respectively. P < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: There was no statistically significant difference in plaque and gingival scores and SM count between the groups at baseline, 7th day, and 14th day. Statistically significant reductions (P < 0.01) in plaque, gingival scores, and SM count were observed in both the groups at 7th and 14th day from baseline. No adverse events were reported during the trial. Conclusion: Effectiveness of MH was comparable with CHX mouthwash in reducing gingivitis and SM count. MH seems to be a promising antimicrobial agent effective in improving gingival health and reducing caries risk.

Background: Individuals with burning mouth suffer from a variety of difficulties in their day-to-day life. Studies related to the role of saliva in burning mouth complaining individuals and their effect on oral health conditions are scarce. Aim: The aim of the study was to determine an association of the salivary flow rate and oral health among individuals with and without burning mouth. Materials and Methods: A case–control study was conducted among 200 individuals aged 18–75 years with and without burning mouth in Bangalore city. Demographic profile, medical, dental and personal history were recorded. Unstimulated and stimulated salivary flow rate and oral health status were assessed. Chi-square test, unpaired t-test, Spearman's correlation, and binary logistic regression were applied.P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Majority of individuals who complained of burning mouth were females aged 45–64 years. The most common systemic condition and lesion were anemia and oral submucous fibrosis. A statistically significant very weak negative correlation was present between unstimulated and stimulated salivary flow rate and Decayed, Missing and Filled teeth. Individuals with reduced salivary flow rate had 3–5 times higher odds of having burning mouth (P < 0.001). Conclusions: There is an association between salivary flow and caries experience among individuals with a burning mouth. Hence, proper diagnosis and appropriate management of these individuals must be done to reduce the difficulties faced by them.

Background: The leather industry stands as one of India's burgeoning sectors, boasting significant manpower. Workers in the finishing sector, particularly those involved in polishing, face heightened risks due to exposure to formaldehyde, aniline, and resins, which can lead to respiratory complications. Aims and Objectives: The aims and objectives of the study are to determine the small airway obstruction in asymptomatic finishing sector workers of a leather factory. Materials and Methods: The current study was a cross-sectional study conducted in a leather factory located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. A random sample of 60 workers was drawn from different sectors of a leather factory. Basic demographic details, smoking history, nature of work, exposure to irritants along with duration, and respiratory symptoms were collected. All workers were subjected to spirometry as per ATS guidelines and the results were analyzed. Association between length (years) of exposure, respiratory symptoms, and spirometry impairment among the workers were analysed. Results: Out of 60 samples, 38 were exposed to irritants and 22 were not exposed to irritants. Out of 38, 25 had small airway disease, seven had large airway obstruction, one had a restrictive pattern, and five had normal spirometry. 42.1% of them were asymptomatic. Conclusion: Small airway obstruction is notably prevalent, especially among asymptomatic workers in the polishing sector. Prolonged exposure is associated with the development of large airway obstructive disease. This study underscores the importance of continuous monitoring for airway diseases in occupationally exposed workers, advocating for timely preventive and protective measures to curb disease progression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to explore the role of neuromarketing in understanding and influencing consumer behavior within digital advertising. By examining how neurological insights can enhance advertising strategies, the study addresses the effectiveness of neuromarketing in optimizing engagement, recall, and decision-making processes in digital marketing contexts. The paper is grounded in consumer behavior theories and cognitive neuroscience, focusing on how brain activity and emotional responses can be leveraged to interpret consumer preferences. The theoretical approach integrates elements from behavioral psychology, marketing theory, and neuroscience to outline how consumers process digital advertising stimuli and make purchase decisions. This paper identifies key neuromarketing techniques that enhance consumer engagement and ad effectiveness, such as targeting emotional triggers and optimizing visual content. It reveals that neuromarketing tools can provide valuable insights into consumer preferences, enabling marketers to tailor advertisements that resonate more deeply with target audiences, thereby boosting conversion rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urban Green Infrastructure (UGI) has emerged as a sustainable strategy in urban planning to address the pressing challenges posed by climate change. This review explores the multifaceted potential of UGI in mitigating climate change effects within urban environments. Urban areas, due to high population densities, often suffer from the urban heat island effect, increased pollution levels, and reduced biodiversity, all of which are exacerbated by climate change. UGI, encompassing green roofs, parks, street trees, and wetlands, offers natural solutions by enhancing carbon sequestration, improving air quality, and promoting cooling effects. This paper systematically examines various UGI interventions, emphasizing their roles in carbon storage, stormwater management, temperature regulation, and habitat provision. Studies reveal that well-integrated green infrastructure not only contributes to the reduction of greenhouse gases but also fosters resilience against extreme weather events, such as floods and heatwaves. Through a comprehensive review of recent research, this paper identifies critical factors that influence the effectiveness of UGI, including vegetation type, urban design, and maintenance practices. The study further discusses socio-economic benefits, highlighting how UGI supports mental health, recreational spaces, and property value enhancement, making it a viable option for sustainable urban development. The paper concludes with policy recommendations for maximizing the benefits of UGI, advocating for inclusive planning, cross-sector collaboration, and community engagement. This research underlines the need for proactive urban planning strategies that integrate UGI as a core element in climate adaptation and mitigation efforts, setting the stage for greener, more resilient cities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Influencer marketing has emerged as a powerful tool in digital marketing, particularly in niche markets where targeted consumer engagement is critical. This paper explores the strategic approaches that businesses can adopt to harness influencer marketing effectively in niche sectors. It delves into the distinct characteristics of niche markets, such as smaller audience sizes and specialized interests, and examines how these factors influence marketing strategies. The paper highlights the importance of aligning influencers with a brand's values, products, and target audience to build authenticity and trust. Moreover, the study discusses various influencer selection criteria, including relevance, reach, and engagement rates, which are essential for creating impactful campaigns in niche markets. It also explores the role of micro and nano influencers, whose deeper connections with their followers make them particularly valuable in targeting specific audiences. The study emphasizes the need for brands to foster long-term partnerships with influencers to maintain credibility and drive sustained engagement. Additionally, it analyzes the metrics and tools available to measure the effectiveness of influencer campaigns, focusing on return on investment (ROI), audience reach, and engagement. Finally, the paper identifies potential challenges, such as limited scalability and the risk of market saturation, and provides recommendations for overcoming these barriers. This review offers valuable insights into the evolving landscape of influencer marketing and presents strategic frameworks that businesses can adopt to succeed in niche markets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Introduction: Dental anxiety is very frequent among population of many countries. It is assessed with a noninvasive biomarker, Salivary alpha amylase. Assessment of dental anxiety or stress can be a vital part of children management during treatment as it affects the children behaviour. Aim: To evaluate acute psychological stress undergone by children during their first visit and subsequent dental visit using salivary biomarker of stress namely salivary alpha amylase. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in Department of Paediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Saveetha Dental College, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. Twenty children were selected for the study. To measure anxiety, the child’s parent completed Modified Dental Anxiety Scale (MDAS). Unstimulated whole salivary samples were collected from 20 children in their first dental visit and in their second visit. Salivary alpha amylase concentrations were obtained using an automatic analyser and assay kits from Roche. Paired t-test was used to compare the two study groups (new and returning patients). Results: Moderate and severe anxiety was present in seven and twelve children out of twenty new patients. Six children had moderate anxiety while no one reported severe anxiety among returning children. Salivary alpha amylase levels were higher in children in their first dental visit (61.29±4.51) compared to their second visit (45.56±3.58). Conclusion: Children during their first dental visit experienced higher levels of stress compared to subsequent visit.

Dental caries is one of the major public health problems which affect the quality of life of an individual. Of all the etiologic factors of dental caries, diet is the most crucial etiologic factor which leads to dental caries [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inorganic cesium lead halide perovskites have evoked wide popularity because of their excellent optoelectronic properties, high photoluminescence (PL) quantum yield (PLQY), and narrowband emission. Here, cesium lead bromide (CsPbBr3) quantum dots (QDs) were synthesized via the ligand‐assisted re‐precipitation method. Post‐synthesis treatment of CsPbBr3 QDs using antimony tribromide improved the PL stability and optoelectronic properties of the QDs. In addition, the PLQY of the post‐treated sample was enhanced to 91% via post‐treatment, and the luminescence observed was maintained for 8 days. The post‐synthesis treatment ensured defect passivation and improved the stability of CsPbBr3 perovskite QDs. High‐resolution transmission electron microscopy revealed the presence of more ordered, uniform‐sized CsPbBr3 QDs after post‐synthesis treatment, and the uniformity of the sample improved as the day passed. The formation of a mixed crystal phase was observed from X‐ray diffraction in both as‐synthesized, as well as post‐treated QDs samples with the possibility of a polycrystalline nature in the post‐treated CsPbBr3 QDs as per the selected area electron diffraction pattern. The X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy spectra confirmed the presence of antimony and the possibility of defect passivation in the post‐treated samples. These QDs can act as potential candidates in various optoelectronic applications such as photodetectors and light‐emitting diodes due to their high PLQY and longer lifetime. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pulpectomy is the treatment of choice for severely infected primary molars. The aim of the study is to evaluate the instrumentation time and obturation quality using Kedo SG blue, Kedo SH, and reciprocating hand K files in primary mandibular molars. To evaluate the instrumentation time and obturation quality using Kedo-SG blue, Kedo-SH, and reciprocating hand K-files in primary mandibular molars. Materials and Methods: A double-blinded randomized controlled trial was conducted on 45 mandibular molars and were randomly assigned to three experimental groups (n = 15). Group I was instrumented using Kedo-SG blue pediatric rotary files, Group II with Kedo-SH pediatric hand files, and Group III with reciprocating hand K-files. Standardized digital radiographs were taken before and after root canal instrumentation. Root canal preparation time was also recorded. Statistical analysis of the obtained data was done using SPSS software version 17.0. An intergroup comparison of the instrumentation time and the quality of obturation were done using ANOVA and Chi-square test with the level of significance set at 5%. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: No significant differences were noted with regard to the quality of obturation between the three groups (P < 0.14). However, a statistically significant difference was noted in the instrumentation time between the three groups (P = 0.000). Kedo-SG blue rotary file had significantly lesser instrumentation time when compared to that of Kedo-SH hand files and reciprocating hand K-files. Conclusion: On comparative evaluation, Kedo-SG blue pediatric rotary file showed a marked reduction in instrumentation time, followed by Kedo-SH pediatric hand files and reciprocating hand K-files.