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Background: Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) poses a significant global health burden, particularly prevalent in regions like India. Despite advancements in diagnostics, early detection of OSCC remains challenging, necessitating novel diagnostic modalities. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and their polymorphisms have emerged as potential contributors to OSCC pathogenesis. Methods: This retrospective case-control study examined 120 individuals, including 60 OSCC cases and 60 healthy controls. Genotyping of TLR3 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) rs3775290 and rs3775291 was conducted using TaqMan allelic discrimination real-time polymerase chain reaction. Functional consequence analysis and TLR3 expression profiling were performed to elucidate their role in OSCC pathogenesis. Results: Significant associations were observed between TLR3 SNPs and OSCC susceptibility, particularly at loci rs3775290 and rs3775291. Functional consequence analysis revealed pathogenic mutations in TLR3 genes, potentially affecting protein structure and function. TLR3 overexpression was detected in OSCC lesions, implicating its involvement in disease progression. Conclusion: TLR3 polymorphisms play a pivotal role in OSCC pathogenesis, offering potential biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis. Targeting TLR3-mediated pathways may hold promise in personalised OSCC management. Further research is warranted to elucidate the precise mechanisms underlying TLR3-mediated carcinogenesis in OSCC, facilitating the development of tailored therapeutic strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was conducted during 2022-23 to assess the level of food insecurity and income status among farm households. Data from 474 farmers through personal interview method were collected. Agriculture was the primary occupation for most households followed by off-farm activities. Average per capita annual income (Rs. 1,00,073) was lower than the national average. The per capita annual income was Rs. 73,303, Rs. 93,256 and Rs. 1,44,456 for marginal, small, and medium farmers, respectively. About 47 per cent of the expenditure was made on consumption. A comparison of calorie intake to recommended calorie intake indicated that food insecurity was prevailing among 26 percent of the farmers. The major contribution to calorie intake was from cereals, the consumption of vegetables and fruits was low. A decision tree model using machine learning algorithms was used to identify the factors influencing food security. Per capita income, family size, consumption expenditure, social participation, and land holdings had significant importance in classifying the households as food secure and insecure. Diversifying farm activities and creating additional opportunities in rural areas, teaching households about balanced diets, promoting home gardening, and institutional policies to improve food security may be the strategic points. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study looked into the dynamics of Dashehari mango value chain in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. A survey of 120 farmers from the Malihabad and Mall blocks of Lucknow was used to collect data. The total cultivation cost per hectare was determined to be Rs. 1,79,469, with variable costs accounting for 53%. Farmers reported an average yield of 11.3 tons per hectare, which falls short of Uttar Pradesh's state productivity for mango. The net return over variable costs was calculated to be Rs. 1,57,050 per hectare. Athorough mapping of the mango value chain in the study area was carried out, followed by a constraint analysis. Harvesting and postharvest losses totaled 13.2%, with retailers bearing the brunt. Pre-harvest contracts were the most common method of mango marketing, with 60-65% of farmers using them. Producers' shares of the consumer rupee varied, ranging from 24% in pre-harvest contract channels to 87% and 62.5%, respectively, in direct marketing and marketing through Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs). Farmers in the mango value chain faced challenges such as pest management, low shelflife, senile orchards, poor price realization, a lack ofprocessing facilities, and a lack of crop insurance schemes. The study emphasizes the importance of long-term interventions to improve the orchard ecosystem and nutrient management, thereby improving farmers' livelihoods. To address these challenges, promoting the widespread adoption of good agricultural practices, canopy management, integrated pest, disease, nutrient management and advanced harvesting techniques is necessary. Furthermore, the study emphasizes FPOs' critical role in establishing a strong and interconnected network within the agricultural community. By implementing these strategies, the mango-producing region of Uttar Pradesh has the potential to foster a sustainable and thriving industry, contributing to farmer prosperity and the community's overall economic growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Epithelial membrane antigen (EMA) has been used as a marker for the expression of tumour margins in various glandular neoplastic lesions. Histopathologically, oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) may exhibit several features within the same tumour cells, portraying that these cells at the invasive margins commonly display certain features that differ from those of the superficial part of the tumour. Aim: To identify and study the invasive tumour front and also to recognise any micrometastases in an OSCC lesion. Materials and Method: A retrospective study of 30 OSCC cases with superficial and most invasive parts were sectioned at 4 µm. Routine H&E staining and immunohistochemical staining with mouse antihuman EMA were done. The OSCC cases were graded into well differentiated squamous cell carcinoma (WDSCC), moderately differentiated squamous cell carcinoma (MDSCC) and poorly differentiated squamous cell carcinoma (PDSCC). The EMA-stained slides were observed and analysed under higher magnification to identify the individual EMA-stained cells. Results: Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) analysis revealed that when comparing the superficial and invasive fronts of OSCC, it was evident that the P values were significant across the groups. In WDSCC, positive predictive value was 70.6% and sensitivity was 100% when the same slide was analysed for large and small islands to individual cells in an EMA-stained section, while MDSCC and PDSCC showed both sensitivity and positive predictive value to be 100%. Conclusion: EMA could be considered a useful prognostic marker for describing the nature of the neoplastic epithelium as well as recognising the typical anaplastic cells in cases of OSCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was conducted during 2022 in Lucknow district of Uttar Pradesh to analyze the livelihood security of rural households. Data was collected from 515 households through personal interview method using kobo collect. Landless and marginal farmers were more food insecure in the region. Forty four % of the households were food insecure. Composite livelihood security index was constructed using six domain indicators viz., habitat, health, economic, food, nutrition and social participation security. The weight for each domain indicator was derived from principal component analysis. The composite livelihood security index was 0.44 among the respondents. The livelihood security was high for medium farmers (0.46) followed by small farmers (0.45). Farming experience, social participation, livestock possession, income, calorie intake, body mass index and wealth significantly influenced the livelihood security. Lack of awareness on pest and disease control and poor price realization were the major constraints faced by the farmers. Technological, institutional and policy interventions are necessary to enhance their livelihood status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gingival Stillman's cleft is one of the least-studied mucogingival defects that may jeopardize the periodontal health and esthetic of the affected teeth. The etiology behind this lesion is believed to be multifactorial, and the histopathology remains unclear. In this report, we present a case of composite gingival Stillman's cleft in anterior maxillary teeth that was clinically treated with a laterally moved coronally advanced flap. The cleft tissue was removed during root coverage surgery and then was harvested for histopathological analysis using hematoxylin and eosin, Masson's trichrome, and van Gieson's stain. In the cleft site, microscopic examination revealed variable degrees of epithelial bifurcations with elongated forking of rete ridges into the stroma. Endothelial-lined blood vessels and inflammatory cells, primarily lymphocytes and fibroblasts, were seen in the stroma. The Masson trichrome (blue) and Van Gieson (pink) revealed colored gingival tissue with prominent collagen fiber distribution at the cleft site, which is suggestive of gingival fibrous hyperplasia brought on by repeated damage from tooth brushing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fibrolipoma, a subtype of lipoma, is a painless, well-circumscribed, slow-growing, submucosal benign adipocyte tumour. It is uncommon in the oral cavity and oropharyngeal region. It accounts for 1.6% of all facial lipomas. Fibrolipomas mostly affect the buccal mucosa and buccal vestibule and cause functional and cosmetic disabilities. The diagnosis and differentiation of fibrolipoma with clinically similar lesions such as fibroma and pleomorphic adenoma are very essential for a correct treatment plan and complete follow-up. Here, we present fibrolipoma, a very rare subtype of lipoma involving the buccal mucosa of the left premolar region in a 44-year-old male patient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mucosal malignant melanoma arising from the head and neck region is a rare entity, and it is more aggressive than cutaneous melanoma. Furthermore, the complexity of the oral cavity makes surgical excision more difficult. Oral malignant melanoma is a rare tumour of melanocytic origin, accounting for 20–30% of malignant melanomas at the mucosal surface and 16% intra-orally. Hard palate and maxillary gingiva are the most common involved sites. The age of reported patients ranges from 20 years to 80 years. Hence, we do hereby present a case of malignant melanoma of mandibular gingiva with review of the literature in a 42-year-old female patient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Treatment of patients with moderate-severe psoriasis and/or psoriatic arthritis includes systemic biologic, antimetabolite, and immunosuppressive therapy. However, adverse events such as serious infectious complications must be considered before starting [...]

During recent decades, India experienced more frequent and severe floods due to increasing extreme rainfall events over different Indian River Basins (IRBs). The present study uses Generalized Extreme Value distribution, Expert Team on Climate Change and Detection Indices, and Standardized Precipitation Index to examine the trend in extreme rainfall events over the IRBs using long‐term observed high‐resolution gridded rainfall data (1901‐2019) obtained from India Meteorological Department. The analysis depicts a marked shifting trend in extreme rainfall events from northeastern Indian river basins toward the western Indian river basins during the recent decades of 1981‐2019. The spatial variations in the annual maximum rainfall for the 10‐, 30‐, and 100‐year return levels show statistically significant increasing trends over the IRBs. The observed decadal changes of rainfall during wet and dry conditions showed the shifting and increasing (15%–58.74%) pattern in extreme rainfall events during the last decades of the 20th and current twenty first century over the west‐flowing river basins. This research highlights the significant increasing trend in extreme rainfall events, which may pose a grave risk to agriculture, human life, and infrastructure, predominantly on the vulnerable sections of the society. Key Points: High‐resolution gridded data sets used for the assessment of the rainfall extremes over the Indian River Basins (IRBs)A western shift in a significantly increasing trend of extreme rainfall events was observed over the western part of the IRBs in the last four decadesWest and North‐east flowing river basins were found to be highly flood‐prone regions resulting in vulnerable hazards [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Regional climate models (RCMs) are routinely applied for regional climate assessments. The RCM simulated rainfall typically overpredict the light rain/drizzle events. To correct the typical errors noted in RCM rainfall simulations, in this study, three bias‐correction methods: linear scaling (SCL), local intensity scaling (LOCI), and empirical quantile mapping (EQM), have been employed. These methods are used to correct monsoon rainfall simulations from 7 RCMs across 14 agroclimatic zones (ACZs) in India from 1970 to 2005. The corrected rainfall data were compared to the observations obtained from India Meteorological Department. The performance of the three methods was assessed using: probability distribution function, consecutive dry day index (CDD), R95 (rainfall distribution at 95th percentile), and spatial correlation. The results vary spatially across the different ACZs. Overall, SCL method is more effective followed by EQM while LOCI was relatively less effective in correcting the errors. Spatial analysis of the rainfall indicates notable improvements over the Western Himalayan Region, which has a complex topography and land use. Error metricsreveal broad improvements across different ACZs, except for Central Plateau Hill Region, East Coast Plain Hill Region, and Southern Plateau Hill Region. The SCL and EQM perform well, and the results are particularly good for simulating wet days (R95), while no distinct variation was found among correction methods to reduce dry bias (CDD). The results provide ACZ and region‐specific utilization of an effective bias correction technique for impact assessment studies in the Indian monsoon region. Key Points: Linear scaling (SCL) and empirical quantile mapping (EQM) performed well, particularly for simulating wet days (R95)Local intensity scaling (LOCI) method was relatively less effective in correcting the errorsNo distinct variation noted among correction methods to reproduce dry bias (CDD) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Xylene is a routinely used clearing agent in histopathology. It is potentially toxic and flammable in nature. Histotechnicians are routinely exposed to this hazardous chemical. Because xylene is used so pervasively in histopathology, it has always been a concern for pathologists and laboratory workers, as its regular and prolonged exposure have serious health effects. Considering its toxicity, different biocompatible xylene substitutes have been evaluated. Aim and Objective(s): This study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of coconut oil as a clearing agent and compare with xylene. Materials and Methods: Two equal halves of 45 soft-tissue specimens were processed simultaneously in xylene and coconut oil as clearing agents. The xylene-treated specimens and coconut oil-treated specimens were checked for gross and histological features, and a comparison was done between the two groups. Results: Significant shrinkage was noted in xylene-treated specimens compared to that in coconut oil-treated specimens. No difference was found in either of the sections when checked for staining quality, overall morphological features and cellular details. Conclusion: It may be substituted for xylene without loss of information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Oral cancer is one of the ten most common cancers in the world. More than 95% of the carcinomas of the oral cavity are of squamous cell type in nature. Oral Candida is a "yeast-like opportunistic pathogen." The Candida genus is comprised of over 150 species of asporogenous "yeast-like" fungi. Aim and Objectives: The aim of study is to correlate the association of oral fungal infection in progression of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and potentially malignant disorders. The current study was undertaken to probe the isolation and identification of oral Candida species in potentially malignant disorder and OSCC versus normal oral mucosa. Materials and Methods: Twenty patients for each abovementioned three lesions were randomly selected by using swabs. These swabs were subsequently inoculated in agar medium. Candida grows as white, convex colonies. Samples growing 1–3 colony-forming units (CFUs) were considered normal flora of the oral cavity. The specimens showing moderate to heavy growth were subjected to tests for identification of species of Candida. The chromogenic medium, HiMedia CHROMagar, has chromogenic substances which helps in the quick detection of Candida species, based on the reactions between the extract enzymes of the dissimilar species and the chromogenic substances. Statistical Analysis: Chi-square test, one-way analysis of variance test, and post hoc Tukey's test were utilized. Results: According to our study, Candida albicans, Candida krusei, Candida tropicalis, and Candida parapsilosis in the culture were found to be in increasing incidence from healthy, OSCC, and oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs). These results clearly indicated that Candida species are increasing in the CFUs (P < 0.0001). Conclusion: Our study showed a higher intensity of Candida in OPMD and squamous cell carcinoma patients with results. The increasing CFU level and hyphae of Candida species in individual biopsy tissue with oral potentially malignant lesions to OSCC suggest that this pathogen plays a role in disease development and could aid in identifying the pathogenic commensal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Meat products are highly susceptible to spoilage. In the present study, the effect of antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of edible coating of chitosan mixed with clove essential oil was investigated for improvement in quality and shelf‐life of chicken patties. The chicken patties were divided into four groups and dipped in edible coatings of different compositions. Among four groups, T1 was kept as control, T2 was dipped in 1% glacial acetic acid, T3 was dipped in 1.5% chitosan while T4 was dipped in 1.5% chitosan mixed with 0.5% clove essential oil. Treatments were analyzed for the various quality parameters for 35 days during refrigeration storage (4 ± 1°C). The results revealed that T4 had significantly (p <.05) improved quality parameters than other treatments. The study established that T4 was the most stable among all treatments with a shelf‐life of 30 days while the control had a shelf‐life of 10 days at refrigeration storage (4 ± 1°C). Practical applications: This work provides a potential application of natural preservations of meat products dodging the use of synthetic preservatives which are detrimental for health. The shelf‐life of chicken patties was extended to almost thrice by application of edible coatings. Thus, the results obtained in the present study can be replicated in meat and meat products as a natural method of preservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Solid tumors such as oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) are composed of malignant epithelial cells and the stroma in which these cells are dispersed. As the tumor progresses, the extracellular matrix undergoes dramatic morphological and architectural changes. Special stains make analysis easy and less erroneous by highlighting the area of interest and can be used to study these changes. Aim: The aim of the study was to analyze morphological changes in collagen fibers in various histological grades of OSCC using Masson's trichrome (MT) and Picrosirius red (PSR). Study Design: The study comprised 74 tissue samples, divided into two groups: Group I consisted of 63 cases of histologically proven OSCC (39 cases of well-differentiated squamous cell carcinoma [WDSCC], 17 moderately differentiated squamous cell carcinoma [MDSCC] and 7 poorly differentiated squamous cell carcinoma [PDSCC]) and Group II consisted of 11 cases of normal mucosa as controls. Materials and Methods: Sections were stained with hematoxylin and eosin, MT and PSR and observed under light and polarizing microscope, respectively. Statistical Analysis: ANOVA, Tukey's honestly significant difference post hoc multiple comparison test, Chi-square test and paired t-test were used for the statistical analysis. Results: As the grade of OSCC progressed, collagen fibers became thin, loosely packed and haphazard. The mean area fraction also decreased. They exhibited orange-red hue and strong birefringence in WDSCC, yellowish-orange hue and strong birefringence in MDSCC and greenish-yellow hue and weak birefringence in PDSCC. Conclusion: Initially, there is a reorganization of the collagen fibers in an attempt to prevent the invasion of tumor cells, but as cancer progresses, the stromal change enhances movement of the tumor cells within it, leading to metastasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Stromal response to cancer is usually characterized by intense lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate. However, recently, the attention has shifted to tumor-associated tissue eosinophils (TATE). Tumor-associated blood eosinophils (TABE) are rare in solid cancers; however, carcinoma of the head and neck shows its prevalence. Aim: The aim of the study was to investigate the prevalence and relationship of tissue and blood eosinophils in various grades of oral cancer. The purpose of the article is to emphasize the possible clinical and biological significance of eosinophils in patients of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) so that appropriate therapeutic strategies can be devised accordingly. Study Design: Thirty histologically confirmed cases of oral squamous cell carcinoma were divided into well, moderate and poorly differentiated carcinoma. Eosinophilic infiltration in the tissue was graded as low, moderate and massive TATE. The number of eosinophils per 100 WBCs was taken as the differential eosinophil count. Blood eosinophilia (BE) >6% was considered to be TABE. Materials and Methods: Hematoxylin and eosin-stained tissue sections at 5 μ were evaluated. Prolonged staining in dilute 0.05% aqueous eosin demonstrated eosinophils selectively. Blood smears were stained by Leishman stain. Statistical Analysis: Student's t-test, Chi-square test, ANOVA, Newman–Keuls Multiple Comparison Test and Karl Pearson correlation coefficient® method were used. Results: The mean TATE value was highest in poorly differentiated carcinoma. TABE was seen only in a few cases and was associated mostly with poorly differentiated OSCC. Conclusion: There was a statistically significant correlation between TATE and histological grades of OSCC. Eosinophilia of the peripheral blood is an adverse sign in patients with carcinoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lipase based enzymatic TTI was prepared using tricaprylin as substrate to monitor thermal abuse history of frozen chicken meat during supply chain. TTI showed an irreversible distinct colour change from initial green to intermediate orange to final red during temperature abuse with corresponding decrease in pH of TTI solution from 8.11 to 6.93 and 5.75, respectively. Temperature dynamicity of TTI on kinetic parameters was derived through Arrhenius equation and activation energy (Ea) of TTI was calculated as 50.94 kJ/mol. At different temperature abuse conditions viz. 5 ± 1 °C, 15 ± 1 °C, 25 ± 1 °C, and 35 ± 1 °C, quantitative changes in various parameters of chicken meat were evaluated and correlated with distinct colour response of TTI. The results showed significant correlation of parameters with colour changes in TTI at 35 ± 1 °C, insignificant correlation at 5 ± 1 °C and 15 ± 1 °C and slight correlation at 25 ± 1 °C indicating concurrent change in quality characteristics of frozen chicken meat on exposure to different temperature abuse conditions. Therefore, suggesting single lipase based enzymatic TTI cannot be utilized for quality marking of frozen chicken meat at different temperature abuse conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC) is a rare salivary gland malignancy characterized by diverse cellular components. This case report presents a unique instance of low-grade MEC in a 28-year-old female, emphasizing the importance of accurate diagnosis and tailored management. The patient exhibited a painless, enlarging lower lip swelling over a year, with imaging suggestive of a fibrolipomatous lesion. Surgical excision was successfully performed, with subsequent histopathological analysis displaying mucinous cystic spaces, varied epithelial cell types and other characteristic features consistent with MEC. The case findings aligned with hallmark MEC features are seen in established literature, highlighting the significance of precise diagnosis and grading for appropriate management. This report contributes to the understanding of MEC's varied presentations and underscores the importance of thorough: histopathological examination, lower lip, mucoepidermoid carcinoma clinical evaluation, accurate histopathological analysis and interdisciplinary collaboration. The case highlights the value of considering MEC in younger patients, even with atypical presentations, and encourages ongoing exploration of diagnostic and therapeutic strategies to improve patient outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pleomorphic adenoma (PA) is the most common benign tumor of major or minor salivary glands. PA exhibits a great histological diversity, such as differentiation into oncocytic, sebaceous, mucinous, squamous, chondroid, osseous or adipose cells. Squamous metaplasia rarely results in the formation of extensive keratin-filled cyst lined by squamous epithelium. Extensive squamous metaplasia can be mistaken for malignancy, including mucoepidermoid carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Here, we report a case of slowly enlarging PA with extensive squamous metaplasia and keratin cyst formations in a minor salivary gland in hard palate and discuss its microscopic features. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: Forensic dentistry plays a vital role in detection and resolution of crime, civil proceedings and personal identification. With ever‑increasing demands placed upon law enforcement to provide sufficient physical evidence linking a perpetrator to a crime, it makes sense to utilize any type of physical characteristic to identify a suspect of an offense. The least invasive and cost‑effective procedure among all methods of human identification is the study of lip prints and fingerprints. This study is done to determine the predominant pattern of fingerprint and lip print in males and females and to correlate it for gender identification. Materials and Methods: The study sample comprised 100 individuals (50 males and 50 females) aged between 20 and 50 years; dark‑colored lipstick was applied uniformly on the lips. The glued portion of cellophane tape was dabbed first in the center and then pressed uniformly over the corner of lips. Cellophane tape was then stuck to a white chart sheet for the purpose of permanent record. Lip print patterns were analyzed following the classification of Suzuki and Tsuchihashi. The imprint of left thumb was taken on a white chart sheet using a blue ink stamp pad and visualized using magnifying lens. Fingerprints were analyzed by following the classification given by Kücken. Correlation of lip print and fingerprint was analyzed using Chi‑square test. Results: The overall correlation of lip prints with fingerprints in males revealed branched lip pattern associated with whorl fingerprint and in females as vertical lip print pattern associated with loop fingerprint. Conclusion: We conclude that the study between lip print and fingerprint can aid in gender determination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Juvenile ossifying fibroma (JOF) is a benign fibroosseous lesion containing various amounts of calcified masses scattered in a fibro cellular stroma. Distinguishing feature of JOF from other fibro-osseous lesions is by its propensity to recur. Case report: Herewith, we report a case of Juvenile ossifying fibroma in the mandible of a 10-year-old female girl. Based on the clinical, radiographic and histopathological evaluation, the present case was diagnosed as juvenile active ossifying fibroma Management: The lesion was treated by partial mandibulectomy using transmandibular approach under antibiotic coverage. Oral functions of the patient remained adequate. The patient was kept under one year of follow up and did not show any sign of recurrence. Conclusion: Juvenile active ossifying fibroma is considered to be a distinctive entity due to its predilection for a specific age group, complex histopathological appearance, and its aggressive clinical behavior. High recurrence rates have been reported which warrant a need for long term follow-ups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MPNSTs are rare malignant tumors of nerve sheath origin. It comprises of approximately 5-10% of all soft tissue sarcomas. The most preferred site of occurrence is lower extremities. Involvement of maxillo-mandibular area is extremely rare. It mainly affects individuals in the age range of 20-50 years. They can develop in pre-existing neurofibromas or schwannomas, de novo from peripheral nerves, or following radiation therapy. Most MPNSTs are easily diagnosed as malignant tumors, but the major challenge is faced in distinguishing them from fibrosarcoma, monophasic synovial sarcoma and leiomyosarcoma. These are difficult tumors to treat due to their inherently aggressive nature as well as limitations in both diagnostic and therapeutic methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioterrorism is a potential public health threat to India. The impact of a biological attack to our nation could be devastating. Most biological warfare agents do not produce symptoms for many hours or several days, so Indians exposed to a contagious biological warfare agent could easily spread the agent to thousands before symptoms manifest. The dental profession could potentially play a significant role in the emergency response to a major bioterrorism attack. This article provides a brief overview of the threat from biological weapons, its consequences, clinical presentation of diseases and state of preparedness in India as a response to this potentially catastrophic danger. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patients with surgical resection of maxilla face an abrupt change of the physiologic processes, oronasal communication, hypernasal speech and impaired esthetics. Restricted mouth opening further compounds the problem, making it necessary to devise ways to easily seat and remove the prosthesis. Magnets like Cobalt-Samarium aid in the attachment of sectional prosthesis, by virtue of their high magnetism, magnetic permanence, ability to be recycled, and yet being cost effective. Corrosion resistance is an issue, but it can be addressed by encapsulating the magnets. This paper discusses the prosthetic rehabilitation of a maxillectomy patient using a two-piece magnet retained hollow bulb obturator. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Halitosis or bad breath is a problem faced by many and can limit their potential to even interact with the society in a positive manner. It is very subjective in that for many this malady is "A perception rather than a real thing, everybody's breath smells to a certain extent". However real halitosis is an unpleasant condition which creates huge embarrassment with potentially grave consequences. Most of the individuals suffering from halitosis seek help from general practioners initially, not the dentist. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tissue microarray (TMA) technology enables high-throughput tissue analyses to keep pace with the rapid process of advance discovery. With this technique, up to 1000 minute tissue samples are brought into an array format and analyzed simultaneously. The TMA technology is a fast, cost-effective, and statistically powerful method that will substantially facilitate translational research. The ability to study archival tissue specimens is an important advantage as such specimens are usually not applicable in other high-throughput genomic and proteomic surveys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) is a rare malignant tumor. It is believed to arise from the epithelial cells of mucoussecreting glands. It most commonly occurs in the major and minor salivary glands of the head and neck. Many individuals are diagnosed with the disease in the fourth to sixth decades of life. There is a slight female preponderance (3:2). No strong, genetic or environmental risk factors have been identified. It is a slow-growing but aggressive tumor with a propensity for perineural invasion. Positive margins, perineural invasion and solid histology of ACC are associated with increased morbidity and treatment failure. An interesting case of adenoid cystic carcinoma along with clinical presentation, differential diagnosis, ultra sonography, histo- pathological features and surgical treatment is described here. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peripheral giant cell granuloma (PGCG) is one of the reactive hyperplastic lesions of the oral cavity, which originates from the periosteum or periodontal membrane following local irritation or chronic trauma. It manifests as a firm nodule or a sessile or pedunculated mass. Hereby, we present a case report of PGCG in a 10 year old male patient in the lower left posterior teeth region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tuberculosis (TB) is a communicable disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which is transmitted by aerosolized saliva droplets among individuals in close contact with expelled sputum of a diseased patient. However, TB lesions of the oral cavity are often overlooked in the differential diagnosis. We report here a case of tuberculosis of oral cavity affecting the gingiva of a 24-year-old male. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Identification and determination of sex of unknown human skeletal remains has been one of the most challenging tasks for forensic dentistry. The purpose of this study was to determine the gender from the analysis of mental foramen on panoramic radiographs in a north Indian population., Materials and Methods: One hundred radiographs were selected for the analysis of mental foramen. Tangents were drawn to the superior and inferior borders of the foramen and perpendiculars were drawn from the tangents to the lower border of the mandible (S-L and I-L). The data obtained were tabulated and subjected to statistical analysis., Results: The average values of S-L and I-L were significantly higher in males than in females, while the distances for the right and left sides of an individual were almost similar in both the male and the females group, and the results were non-significant., Conclusion: The distances from the mental foramen to the lower border of the mandible exhibit sexual dimorphism in the north Indian population.