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Various photon attenuation software tools are being used widely by researchers to evaluate the radiation shielding parameters of the elements/compounds/composites theoretically. Attempts are being made by a few researchers to update and develop software tools of these kinds. However, the efficacy of these tools in terms of their comparison is yet to be explored. Thus, an attempt has been made in the present study to compare & explore the best tool among the widely used and most trusted tools, such as Phy-X, XCOM, FFAST and XMuDat photon attenuation databases, to evaluate the shielding parameters of PVA-based composites filled with bismuth and tungsten, and also for materials such as bismuth, tungsten, gold, copper, platinum, lead and barite. Careful analysis of the data obtained computationally and experimentally shows that, although the Phy-X tool provides various shielding parameters with multiple choices in the selection of energy range, it is noticed that this tool needs to be figured out for obtaining the absorption edges of the composites of interest precisely. The XCOM database provides sharp absorption edges; however, this tool gives multiple values of mass attenuation coefficients corresponding to a particular absorption edge energy. On the other hand, The FFAST tool provides sharp absorption edges along with X ray fine structure. However, the tool restricts to work with elements and compounds in the energy range 1 keV–433 keV, which limits the utilization of this tool. Furthermore, the XMuDat tool has a limiting option to work with the materials available in its library/database and provides the mass attenuation coefficient and four other parameters. However, the XMuDat provides a large number of data points, which helps to identify any minute deviation in the values of the parameters. Therefore, the present study suggests that the XMuDat tool is much more advantageous and reliable than the other tools for the detailed study of various radiation shielding parameters.

Breast Cancer (BC) is a major health issue in women of the age group above 45. Identification of BC at an earlier stage is important to reduce the mortality rate. Image-based noninvasive methods are used for early detection and for providing appropriate treatment. Computer-Aided Diagnosis (CAD) schemes can support radiologists in making correct decisions. Computational intelligence paradigms such as Machine Learning (ML) and Deep Learning (DL) have been used in the recent past in CAD systems to accelerate diagnosis. ML techniques are feature driven and require a high amount of domain expertise. However, DL approaches make decisions directly from the image. The current advancement in DL approaches for early diagnosis of BC is the motivation behind this review. This article throws light on various types of CAD approaches used in BC detection and diagnosis. A survey on DL, Transfer Learning, and DL-based CAD approaches for the diagnosis of BC is presented in detail. A comparative study on techniques, datasets, and performance metrics used in state-of-the-art literature in BC diagnosis is also summarized. The proposed work provides a review of recent advancements in DL techniques for enhancing BC diagnosis.

This article highlights the influence of a split-type diffuser on the overall performance augmentation of a centrifugal fan equipped with a forward-curved impeller. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis calculates performance metrics like static pressure rise and total pressure coefficients for design and off-design flow circumstances. The split ratio for the diffuser is varied parametrically by providing a splitter type of wall at salient locations of the diffuser passage. The effect of the split ratio on the three-dimensional flow domain is quantitatively studied. The Re-Normalization Group (RNG) k-e turbulence model is offered in ANSYS, and the fluent is used in the simulation. The transient analysis is performed using the standard moving mesh technique. According to the CFD study, the arrangement with a split ratio 0.5 is the best option for fan performance augmentation. Compared to the conventional fan model, this optimal configuration improves the static pressure increase coefficient by roughly 17.5% on average. Compared to the non-split type base model, this optimized split diffuser arrangement provides a more significant total pressure coefficient of approximately 3.03%, enhancing static pressure recovery. As a result, this CFD study demonstrates the usefulness of appropriately implementing a split-type diffuser of a forward-bladed centrifugal fan for its overall performance enhancement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Study was carried out to evaluate the efficacy of a glucometer for screening diabetes using gingival crevicular blood and to compare the blood glucose levels in the gingival crevicular blood sample and blood sample collected by finger puncture method using glucometers. Subjects and Methods: A total of 24 known diabetic patients who fulfilled the selection criteria were selected after obtaining their informed consent. Samples were collected from two sites, i.e., gingival crevice and fingertip which was measured using a self-monitoring device. Statistical Analysis Used: Karl Pearson correlation. Results: This study revealed the existence of a positive correlation between gingival crevicular blood and capillary blood glucose level (r = 0.826), and gingival blood glucose level estimates 68.2% of capillary blood glucose level. Hence, based on the observations of the study using gingival crevicular blood glucose level, capillary blood glucose level may be estimated based on the following regression equation. Capillary blood glucose = 84.66 + 0.77x gingival crevicular blood glucose level. Conclusions: The intraoral sampling technique is safer, convenient, and cost-effective for the dental practitioner as the sample can be obtained during the routine periodontal examination. It can be concluded that with the regression equation based on the gingival crevicular blood glucose level, capillary blood glucose can be estimated.

Aim: This study was conducted to estimate and correlate salivary thiocyanate (SCN) levels in periodontally healthy subjects, smokers, nonsmokers, and gutka-chewers with chronic periodontitis. Methodology: The study population consisted of 40 systemically healthy subjects in the age group of 18-55 years that was further divided into four groups: Control, smokers, nonsmokers, and gutka-chewers with chronic periodontitis. Gingival index (GI) (Loe and Silness-1963), probing depth (PD), clinical attachment loss was assessed. Estimation of SCN was performed by ultraviolet spectrophotometer at 447 nm wavelength. Statistical analysis was performed using the one-way ANOVAs Welch test and Pearson′s correlation test using SPSS version 17 software. Results: Results showed statistically significant increase in SCN levels in smokers as compared to gutka-chewers with chronic periodontitis, control, and nonsmokers with chronic periodontitis subjects. Significantly higher PD and loss of attachment were seen in smokers group compared with other groups. A negative correlation observed between the GI and thiocyanate levels. Conclusion: The present study revealed a significant increase in SCN levels in smokers with periodontitis as compared to nonsmokers.

Based on the interaction with PDB protein 1PXX of the cox-2 enzyme, a novel series of substituted thiazolidinones (TZD 5a-s) and azetidinones (AZT 6a-s) was designed and synthesized. Molecules were synthesized from 2-mercapto benzoxazole (1) using both conventional and microwave irradiation methods, and their in-vitro antioxidant activity was evaluated using the DPPH free radical scavenging activity, as well as their in-vivo anti-inflammatory activity using the carrageenin-induced rat paw edema method. The reaction time, yield, and purity of microwave and conventionally produced molecules are compared in this work. The molecule ethyl 2-(benzoxazol-2-ylthio)acetate (2) is obtained by reacting 2-mercapto benzoxazole (1) with ethyl 2-chloroacetate in the presence of potassium carbonate and dry acetone. The molecule 2-(benzoxazol-2-ylthio)acetohydrazide (3) was synthesized by reacting ethyl 2-(benzoxazol-2-ylthio)acetate (2) with hydrazine hydrate in the presence of absolute alcohol. Compound 2-(benzoxazol-2-ylthio)acetohydrazide (3) on reacting with different aromatic and heterocyclic aldehyde derivative forms 2-(benzoxazol-2-ylthio)-N'-substituted acetohydrazide Schiff bases (4a-s). 2-(benzoxazol-2-ylthio)-N-(4-oxo-2-substituted thiazolidin-3-yl)acetamide (5a-s) i.e. thiazolidinones benzoxazole derivatives obtained on reacting Schiff bases (4a-s) with thioglycolic acid in a dioxane medium and anhydrous zinc chloride. The Schiff bases (4a-s) were converted into 2-(Benzo[d]oxazol-2-ylthio)-N-(3-chloro-2-oxo-4-substituted azetidin-1-yl)acetamide (6a-s) after treatment with chloroacetyl chloride in the presence of triethanol amine and dioxane. This study focuses on screening of novel synthesized benzoxazole derivatives for in vitro antioxidant, in vivo anti-inflammatory activity, and the evaluation of ulcerogenic activity. The in vivo activity is correlated with the in silico activity, the 3 D QSAR studies were performed for all the compounds by using computer program i.e. SYBYL-X 2.1.1 software. The best CoMFA and CoMSIA models were obtained for the training set compounds with 0.753 and 0.646 leave-one-out coefficients (q2), 0.714 and 0.619 cross validated correlation coefficients (r2cv), and 0.975 and 0.983 conventional coefficients (r2), respectively. Both models were validated with a test set of eight compounds, giving the CoMFA and CoMSIA models a satisfactory prediction (r2pred) of 0.788 and 0.663, respectively. The findings of the study would provide valuable information for the design of new compounds and would also help in predicting the activity of designed compounds. To identify the lead molecule docking studies are performed on COX-2 enzyme of protein 1PXX, the molecules 5c, 5q, 5j, 6q, and 6 g derivatives obtained good - c-docker interaction energy respectively, and in vivo acute ulcerogenic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Welding of two dissimilar alloys of aluminium such as AA5082 and AA6061 using friction stir welding (FSW) and their weldability has been studied in terms of microstructural and mechanical characteristics of the formed joint. Assessment of tensile strength of the weld joint and microhardness in the weld zone and the thermo-mechanically affected zone were done. The joint showed a tensile strength of 0.253 kN/mm2 and a Rockwell hardness of 54 HRA. Optical microscopy was conducted to study microstructure in different areas on the joined workpieces. Neither cracking nor porosity was observed in the weld zone in several high-resolution optical examinations, implying that defect free zones seem to have formed with the process parameters used, i.e. at 1000 RPM and 30 mm/min. This indicates a very good compatibility in welding the two alloys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In previous research studies, the risk of several chronic illnesses has been evaluated by comparing cardiovascular parameters among smokers and non-smoking or non-tobacco users. There are no sufficient explorations in the research relating blood pressure and smokeless tobacco consumption. This study aims to compare the blood pressure levels in chewers of Gutka (a popular form of smokeless tobacco in South Asia) with that of non-tobacco-consuming individuals. Sixty smokeless tobacco users (gutka chewers) and sixty non-tobacco users were chosen as participants of the study. These subjects were men aged between 18 and 35 years. After describing the nature and aim of the research, consenting participants gave a formal consent, and a detailed history was collected from these men. After knowing their demographics, weight, height and body mass index, their blood pressure was recorded. The results indicated that the blood pressure of non-tobacco users is significantly better when compared to the users of smokeless tobacco. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 has made us realize the importance of "R4: information must reach the 'right information' 'in right time' 'to right person' and 'through a right channel or platforms' and eventually witnessed to the era of 'teach for all' 'learn by all' 'learn without a wall, without teacher' 'service on finger' and 'information on devices.' The unexpected outbreak of COVID-19 infections in 2020 has a global impact without any man-women, aged-child, color, rich-poor, literate-illiterate, and other geographical and ethnographical differentiation. As non-profit service centers of libraries, geographic locality and size are learning the facts about this global health crisis, informing the different communities and adapting community-centric emerging services and facilities to meet changing community information needs and expectations during these health emergencies. It is time to realize and remind the social communities of the essentialness of libraries and their library professionals to collect, organize, preserve, and disseminate information through different virtual platforms to fulfill the remotely scattered library users due to the shocking spread of COVID-19 deadly disease. This paper researcher has demonstrated the role of libraries and library professionals in selecting, collecting, organizing, preserving, and disseminating information along with challenges of library professionals to restricting library services, facilities, and other 'user-centric' functional activities to move on user door-steps and fulfill existing information needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The existing symmetric searchable encryption plans go for permitting a client to outsource the original information to a cloud server and agent the last to inquiry on benefit. These plans don't qualify as an issue and adaptable answer for the multiparty setting, where clients outsource their encoded information to a cloud server and specifically approve each other to hack. Because of the likelihood that the cloud server might intrigue with a malicious user, it is a test to have a secure and versatile Advanced Multiparty Searchable Encryption (AMSE) plan. In order to avoid this situation a new security model MPSE has been taken. In this symmetric searchable encryption scheme is used the user may share their key to other user for accessing the data. If other users have the key then can access the data. If other users have the key then can access the data, to avoid this problem we are using MPSE (Multiparty Searchable Encryption) scheme. In this scheme the other user cannot access the file, if they have key also. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dental caries is progressive damage to the teeth caused by microbial organisms and is also most common disease affecting 80% of the population. Now a days, Restorative dentistry has moved away from a "drill and fill" philosophy to a minimally invasive approach. Several decades ago, increased Auto fluorescence has been found in the carious dentin which was supposed to be emitted by bacterial metabolites, and developed a novel caries excavation device based on fluorescence properties of dentin. Fluorescence is a visible light system that offers the opportunity to differentiate infected dentin and sound dentin using two forms of fluorescence Red and Green. The improved removal of infected dentin achieved using this new technique may be appealing to the clinician. Because it reduces the clinical working time. This also puts the dentist in a position to make an "informed decision" for the first time regarding the removal of carious dentin near the pulp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Study was carried out to evaluate the efficacy of a glucometer for screening diabetes using gingival crevicular blood and to compare the blood glucose levels in the gingival crevicular blood sample and blood sample collected by finger puncture method using glucometers. Subjects and Methods: A total of 24 known diabetic patients who fulfilled the selection criteria were selected after obtaining their informed consent. Samples were collected from two sites, i.e., gingival crevice and fingertip which was measured using a self-monitoring device. Statistical Analysis Used: Karl Pearson correlation. Results: This study revealed the existence of a positive correlation between gingival crevicular blood and capillary blood glucose level (r = 0.826), and gingival blood glucose level estimates 68.2% of capillary blood glucose level. Hence, based on the observations of the study using gingival crevicular blood glucose level, capillary blood glucose level may be estimated based on the following regression equation. Capillary blood glucose = 84.66 + 0.77x gingival crevicular blood glucose level. Conclusions: The intraoral sampling technique is safer, convenient, and cost-effective for the dental practitioner as the sample can be obtained during the routine periodontal examination. It can be concluded that with the regression equation based on the gingival crevicular blood glucose level, capillary blood glucose can be estimated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study was conducted to estimate and compare inorganic salivary calcium, phosphate, magnesium, salivary flow rate, and pH of unstimulated saliva and oral hygiene status of healthy subjects, subjects with periodontitis and dental caries, and to correlate salivary calcium level with number of intact teeth. Materials and Methods: The study population consisted of 48 systemically healthy subjects in the age group of 18-55 years, which was further divided into three groups: healthy, periodontitis, and dental caries. Oral hygiene index-simplified, probing pocket depth, clinical attachment level, the number of intact teeth, and active carious lesions were recorded. Estimation of inorganic salivary calcium, phosphate, and magnesium was performed spectrophotometrically using Vitros 5.1 FS. Statistical analysis was performed using the one-way analysis of variance test at 5% significance level. Results: There was a statistically significant increase in inorganic salivary calcium, phosphate, pH, flow rate, and poor oral hygiene status in periodontitis group compared to dental caries and healthy group. Conclusion: Subjects with increased inorganic salivary calcium, phosphate, pH, flow rate, and poor oral hygiene are at a higher risk of developing periodontitis. Since there is increased remineralization potential, these subjects have more number of intact teeth compared to the dental caries group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

External beam radiotherapy (EBRT) for carcinoma of uterine cervix is a basic line of treatment with three dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3DCRT) in large number of patients. There is need for an established method for verification dosimetry. We tried to document absorbed doses in a group of carcinoma cervix patients by inserting a 0.6 cc Farmer type ion chamber in the vaginal cavity. A special long perspex sleeve cap is designed to cover the chamber for using in the patient's body. Response of ionization chamber is checked earlier in water phantom with and without cap. Treatment planning was carried out with X-ray computed tomography (CT) scan and with the chamber along with cap in inserted position, and with the images Xio treatment planning system. Three measurements on 3 days at 5-6 fraction intervals were recorded in 12 patients. Electrometer measured charges are converted to absorbed dose at the chamber center, in vivo. Our results show good agreement with planned dose within 3% against prescribed dose. This study, is a refinement over our previous studies with transmission dosimetry and chemicals in ampules. This preliminary work shows promise that this can be followed as a routine dose check with special relevance to new protocols in the treatment of carcinoma cervix with EBRT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Researchers are beginning to study the combined influences of lifestyles, psychological factors and social conditions on human well-being and not only the standard risk factors, which do not explain everything. More emphasis is now directed towards the combined influence of lifestyle and psychosocial factors along with standard risk factors. The present study is a pilot study conducted to correlate the periodontal status of people with reference to gender, lifestyle, education level, and dental health behavior. Material and methods: A total of 60 patients who fulfilled the mentioned inclusion and exclusion criteria were selected. Information about their gender, lifestyle, education level and dental health behavior were assessed by using a questionnaire followed by clinical recordings of inflammation, bleeding on probing, periodontal pockets, and clinical attachment loss. Index used to measure periodontal and gingival status was Russell's Periodontal Index (PI). Results: Results showed that there was high statistically significant difference when lifestyle and education level were compared with their periodontal status. No significant association was observed in gender and dental health behavior with periodontal status. Conclusion: This study points out that there are lifestyle factors other than brushing and flossing that may affect patient's oral health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 40-year-old female patient reported to the Department of Periodontology and Implantology with a chief complaint of discoloration in upper left lateral incisor. She gave a history of trauma for which tooth was endodontically treated 5 years back. On clinical examination localized gingival inflammation, bleeding on probing and palatogingival groove was present in the distal aspect of maxillary left lateral incisor. Periodontal examination revealed a probing pocket depth of 6mm and grade I mobility. The case was treated with periodontal flap surgery followed by saucerization and placement of bone graft plug resulting in a significant improvement in clinical parameter after 5 months post-operatively. Palatogingival groove is a rare developmental anomaly and it is one of the most important diagnostic and therapeutic challenges faced by periodontists. This case report confirms the role of palatogingival groove to cause localized chronic periodontitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To compare the effect of chewing gutkha on oral hygiene, gingival and periodontal status. Methods: The oral hygiene status, gingival and periodontal status of 100 subjects (50 were gutkha chewers and 50 were non-chewers) was evaluated and compared using Simplified Oral Hygiene Index (OHI-S), gingival index (GI) and Community periodontal index (CPI) respectively. Results: The mean OHI-S score in gutkha chewers was 2.1596 which was approximately three fold greater than 0.8160 observed in non-chewers. The number of subjects with good oral hygiene (82%) was significantly higher among non-chewing subjects when compared with gutkha chewers where none of the subjects had good oral hygiene. The number of subjects with mild and moderate gingivitis was significantly higher among non-chewers when compared with gutkha chewers. Less than half (46%) had periodontal pocket of 4-5mm and 66% had LOA of 4- 5mm in gutkha chewers when compared to non-chewers where 10% subjects had 4-5mm periodontal pocket and 24% had loss of attachment of 4-5mm. Conclusions: Chewing gutkha has been found to have a role in deterioration of oral hygiene, gingival status and periodontal status and also development of oral lesions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Dentinal hypersensitivity (DH) is a commonly encountered problem. Several products are used in management of DH with varying results. Need is felt in dentistry for a material that chemically reacts, physically occludes and adheres intimately to dentinal tubules to reduce the possibility of its recurrence. One such material is calcium sodium phosphosilicate-Novamin®. Aim: To evaluate an efficacy of a 5% calcium sodium phosphosilicate (Novamin® SHY NMTM) containing dentifrice compared to placebo for the relief of DH. Settings and Design: Outpatients visiting Dept of Periodontics, Yenepoya Dental College with DH were deemed eligible for this case-control clinical trial after an informed consent. Materials and Methods: 30 patients having at least 2 sensitive teeth with a VAS (Visual Analogue Scale) of >3 cm after air blast stimulation, qualified to participate in the study. Test (SHY NMTM toothpaste containing 5% calcium sodium phosphosilicate) and control (Pepsodent toothpaste without a desensitizing agent) groups, each containing 15 participants, were subjected to cold water and air blast stimulation for an assessment of DH at baseline, 6th and 8th week using VAS. Statistical analysis used: Unpaired t-test and repeated measures ANOVA. Results: 5% Novamin® containing dentifrice significantly reduced DH within 6th and 8th week of usage when compared to a placebo dentifrice. Conclusions: A Novamin® containing dentifrice significantly reduced DH when compared to a placebo dentifrice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To compare the effect of two manual tooth brushes with varying textures in relation to plaque removing efficacy. Methods: The present trial was examiner blind, randomized and three visit study with 20 volunteers using either of the two types of manual tooth brushes with varying textures. Subjects were assessed for dental plaque according to the criteria of Simplified oral hygiene index (OHI-S) and Turesky's Gilmore modification of Quigley-Hein plaque index using two tone disclosing agent at baseline, first visit (7 days) and second visit (14 days). All the subjects were demonstrated modified Bass method of brushing at each visit. Results: OHI-S score and Quigley Hein plaque scores of subjects using Thermoseal ultra-soft tooth brush was significantly higher than those using Plakoff smart soft tooth brush at both first and second visits. There was a definite trend with plaque scores at 1st visit and 2nd visits being significantly higher than the baseline among ultra-soft tooth brush users in contrast to soft tooth brush users who demonstrated significantly lower scores at 1st and 2nd visit when compared to the baseline score. Conclusions: Plakoff smart soft tooth brush (0.25 mm tuft filament diameter) was effective in reducing plaque compared to Thermo seal ultra-soft tooth brush (0.18 mm tuft filament diameter). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Dynamic Contrast-enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging (DCE-MRI) imaging is the mainstay of breast MRI techniques in characterising breast masses. Diffusion-weighted Imaging (DWI) is an adjunct MRI technique to differentiate between benign and malignant breast masses. Aim: To evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of breast MRI by combining DCE-MRI and DWI to differentiate benign from malignant breast masses and compare it with histopathology. Materials and Methods: The present cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Radiology and Imaging, Bharat Scans private limited, Chennai, India, from July 2013 to April 2015. A total of 51 patients with suspicious breast masses detected by mammography and/or ultrasonography were evaluated by DCE-MRI and DWI using General Electric (GE) 3 Tesla Magnetic Resonance Imaging. The results were compared with histopathology. Sensitivity, specificity, Positive Predictive Value (PPV) and Negative Predictive Values (NPV) were calculated for DCE-MRI and for the combined method using DCE-MRI with DWI. Statistical analysis was done using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 17.0 and Open Epi software. A p-value

The study taken up during 2021 aimed at assessing the extent of financial inclusion and its determinants among the farmers in two aspirational districts (Raichur and Yadgir) of Karnataka and selected 30 respondents per block from two block per district making a sample size of 120. The overall extent of financial inclusion was moderate. The level of awareness of majority of the respondents on financial products and services was moderate to high, but majority of them reported difficulty in accessing them. The level of usage was found to be low, whereas satisfaction level was moderate. The determinants study revealed that age, distance to financial institute and education (Illiteracy, Primary) were negatively related to extent of financial inclusion. Operational land holding and annual income were observed to be positive and significant. Frequency of visit to financial institute was positive and significant contributor to extent of financial inclusion. The results are clear cut indication for tailored plans, polices and strategies for farmers’ financial inclusion.

Background: The etiology of gingival recession is often multifactorial. Wide array of surgical techniques are available to manage gingival recession. The aim of the present study was to compare, minimally invasive approach (vestibular incision subperiosteal tunnel access [VISTA]), in combination with platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) and connective tissue graft (CTG) in the management of multiple recession defects in maxillary anterior region. Materials and Methods: A total of 32 sites from 10 systemically healthy controls were allocated randomly to VISTA with PRF (VISTA + PRF) and VISTA with CTG (VISTA + CTG). Plaque index, gingival index, Probing probing pocket depth (PPD), relative attachment level (RAL), recession depth (RD), recession width (RW), width of keratinized gingiva (WKG), and percentage of root coverage (%RC) were calculated at 6 months postoperatively. Results: Results showed significant improvement in mean PPD, RAL, RD, RW, and KTW. %RC in VISTA + PRF and VISTA + CTG was 83.25% ± 25.02% and 86.43% ± 22.79%, respectively, at 6 months. There were no significant differences in the parameters between the VISTA + PRF and VISTA + CTG groups. Conclusion: VISTA is a minimally invasive surgical approach, which can be combined with CTG or PRF in the management of Miller's Class I and Class II recession defects, with predictable outcomes. There were significant improvements in the clinical parameters from baseline to 6 months in both the groups. To match with the CTG, which is the gold standard procedure, PRF can be used as an alternative for treating multiple recession defects.

Background and aim: Assessment of normal dimension of cerebral ventricles is important for early detection of changes due to intrinsic and extrinsic pathology producing ventriculomegaly. Hence normal upper and lower limits of the cerebral ventricular system in various age groups and in both sexes are important for diagnosing it. Our aim is to establish a baseline reference value for the third and fourth ventricular width using Computed Tomogram [CT] for normal South Indian population. Materials and methods: 100 subjects aged between 5 to 90 years, comprising of 54 males and 46 females, with normal CT brain were analyzed. Subjects with intracranial and intraventricular pathology were excluded. Axial CT brain was obtained in Siemens Somatom scope multislice slice CT scanner. The widest diameter of the third and fourth ventricles on axial images using linear approach was measured. Student's t test and one way analysis of variance was used. Results: Mean third ventricle size in male: 5.11 +/- 2.37 mm and in female: 4.35 +/- 2.08 mm. Mean fourth ventricle size in male: 13.40 +/- 1.66 mm and in female: 12.84 +/- 1.85 mm. Conclusion: The highest of the dimension in the third ventricle occurs in the highest age group of >60 years in both males and females. There was a steady rise in the third ventricle size across age groups until the seventh decade.

Background: Accuracy in fit of cast metal restoration has always remained as one of the primary factors in determining the success of the restoration. A well-fitting restoration needs to be accurate both along its margin and with regard to its internal surface. Aim: The aim of the study is to evaluate the marginal fit of metal ceramic crowns obtained by conventional inlay casting wax pattern using conventional impression with the metal ceramic crowns obtained by computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technique using direct and indirect optical scanning. Materials and Methods: This in vitro study on preformed custom-made stainless steel models with former assembly that resembles prepared tooth surfaces of standardized dimensions comprised three groups: the first group included ten samples of metal ceramic crowns fabricated with conventional technique, the second group included CAD/CAM-milled direct metal laser sintering (DMLS) crowns using indirect scanning, and the third group included DMLS crowns fabricated by direct scanning of the stainless steel model. The vertical marginal gap and the internal gap were evaluated with the stereomicroscope (Zoomstar 4); post hoc Turkey's test was used for statistical analysis. One-way analysis of variance method was used to compare the mean values. Results and Conclusion: Metal ceramic crowns obtained from direct optical scanning showed the least marginal and internal gap when compared to the castings obtained from inlay casting wax and indirect optical scanning. Indirect and direct optical scanning had yielded results within clinically acceptable range.

Background: Sex hormones may be a modifying factor in the periodontal disease pathogenesis. Aim: The association between gingival enlargement and sex hormone levels in adolescent patients undergoing fixed orthodontic therapy needs to be determined. Settings and Design: This study was conducted in the Department of Periodontology in association with the Department of Orthodontics, Yenepoya Dental College, Yenepoya University, Mangaluru. Materials and Methods: A pilot study was conducted on 21 adolescent patients between the age group of 13–19 years, who had undergone fixed orthodontic therapy for at least 3 months. Apicocoronally, the gingival enlargement was assessed by the index described by Miller and Damm. Miranda and Brunet index was used to assess gingival overgrowth in the buccal–lingual direction in the interdental papilla. Furthermore, the patients were assigned to two groups - Group 1-GE and Group 2-non-GE. Sex hormones assessed were estradiol and progesterone in females and testosterone in males in both groups. Results: 57.1% of the study population had enlargement of the gingiva. The mean plaque score was 0.59 and 0.56, respectively, in both groups. A statistically significant relationship was found between estradiol and testosterone levels with gingival enlargement. However, a significant relationship was not obtained for progesterone levels with the gingival enlargement. Conclusion: Direct correlation between estradiol, testosterone, and gingival enlargement was seen.

External beam radiotherapy (EBRT) for carcinoma of uterine cervix is a basic line of treatment with three dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3DCRT) in large number of patients. There is need for an established method for verification dosimetry. We tried to document absorbed doses in a group of carcinoma cervix patients by inserting a 0.6 cc Farmer type ion chamber in the vaginal cavity. A special long perspex sleeve cap is designed to cover the chamber for using in the patient′s body. Response of ionization chamber is checked earlier in water phantom with and without cap. Treatment planning was carried out with X-ray computed tomography (CT) scan and with the chamber along with cap in inserted position, and with the images Xio treatment planning system. Three measurements on 3 days at 5-6 fraction intervals were recorded in 12 patients. Electrometer measured charges are converted to absorbed dose at the chamber center, in vivo. Our results show good agreement with planned dose within 3% against prescribed dose. This study, is a refinement over our previous studies with transmission dosimetry and chemicals in ampules. This preliminary work shows promise that this can be followed as a routine dose check with special relevance to new protocols in the treatment of carcinoma cervix with EBRT.

BACKGROUND: Relationship among periodontitis, obesity, and chronic diseases may be multidirectional. Inflammatory diseases such as periodontitis induce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1, and IL-6. It has been suggested that the secretion of TNF-α by adipose tissue triggered by lipopolysaccharides from periodontal Gram-negative bacteria promotes hepatic dyslipidemia and decreases insulin sensitivity. AIM: To study the association of obesity with the severity of periodontitis and to compare the blood glucose levels and plasma lipid profile in obese and non-obese subjects with chronic periodontitis. METHODOLOGY: A total of 84 systemically healthy subjects, aged 30–60 years, were included in the study. Periodontal status of the subjects was assessed by recording Community Periodontal Index (CPI) and Gingival Index (Loe and Silness, 1963). Body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) were used as measures to assess obesity. The fasting plasma lipids level and fasting blood glucose level were measured. Data were analyzed by unpaired 't'test, Fisher's Exact test, and Chi-square test. RESULTS: There was a statistically significant difference in Gingival Index and Community Periodontal Index between the obese and non-obese group. Total cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels showed significant difference between the two groups. There was no statistically significant difference in mean age, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels, and fasting blood glucose levels between the two groups. CONCLUSION: The present study showed a positive association between obesity and chronic periodontitis. Further long-term studies involving larger sample size are required to confirm this association.

Calixarene bulk modified screen-printed electrodes (SPCCEs) have been designed, fabricated and utilized as one-shot disposable electrochemical sensors towards the simultaneous measurement of toxic metal ions lead(II), copper(II) and mercury(II) within environmental samples. These SPCCEs have been fabricated upon polyester strips, which have been modified over a range of different calixarene compositions. These bespoke sensors have been utilized as disposable electrochemical sensors and quantified in model aqueous solution of 0.1 M HCl giving rise to the simultaneous sensing of lead(II), copper(II) and mercury(II) using cyclic voltammetry and differential pulse anodic stripping voltammetry techniques. These SPCCEs have additionally been applied for the sensing of lead(II), copper(II) and mercury(II) within industrial and environmental samples such as industrial effluents and wastewater samples, furthermore the presented method has been subjected to a comprehensive interference study and further validated with an atomic absorption spectrometric method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evidence indicates that chronic infections and inflammation are associated with increased risk of cancer development. There has also been considerable evidence that proves the interrelationship between bacterial and viral infections and carcinogenesis. Periodontitis is a chronic oral infection thought to be caused by gram-negative anaerobic bacteria in the dental biofilm. Periodontal bacteria and viruses may act synergistically to cause periodontitis. Many studies have shown that periodontal pockets may act as reservoirs for human papilloma virus, cytomegalovirus, Epstein Barr virus, and suspected agents associated with oral cancer. Periodontitis, characterized by epithelial proliferation and migration, results in a chronic release of inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, prostaglandins, and enzymes, all of which are associated with cancer development. This review article intends to shed light on the association between periodontal health and carcinogenesis.

ROS are a risk factor of several cardiovascular disorders and interfere with NO/soluble guanylyl cyclase/cyclic GMP (NO/sGC/cGMP) signaling through scavenging of NO and formation of the strong oxidant peroxynitrite. Increased oxidative stress affects the heme-containing NO receptor sGC by both decreasing its expression levels and impairing NO-induced activation, making vasodilator therapy with NO donors less effective. Here we show in vivo that oxidative stress and related vascular disease states, including human diabetes mellitus, led to an sGC that was indistinguishable from the in vitro oxidized/heme-free enzyme. This sGC variant represents what we believe to be a novel cGMP signaling entity that is unresponsive to NO and prone to degradation. Whereas high-affinity ligands for the unoccupied heme pocket of sGC such as zinc-protoporphyrin IX and the novel NO-independent sGC activator 4-[((4-carboxybutyl){2-[(4-phenethylbenzyl)oxy]phenethyl}amino) methyl [benzoic]acid (BAY 58-2667) stabilized the enzyme, only the latter activated the NO-insensitive sGC variant. Importantly, in isolated cells, in blood vessels, and in vivo, BAY 58-2667 was more effective and potentiated under pathophysiological and oxidative stress conditions. This therapeutic principle preferentially dilates diseased versus normal blood vessels and may have far-reaching implications for the currently investigated clinical use of BAY 58-2667 as a unique diagnostic tool and highly innovative vascular therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

HER2 receptors, overexpressed in certain human cancers, have drawn significant attention in cancer research due to their correlation with poor survival rates. Researchers have developed monoclonal antibodies like Trastuzumab and Pertuzumab against HER2 receptors, which have proven highly beneficial in cancer therapy. Bispecific antibodies like Zanidatamab and antibody-drug conjugates like T-DM1 have been developed to overcome the resistance associated with monotherapy. Small molecules such as Lapatinib, Neratinib, and Pyrotinib were initially developed for treating breast cancer. However, ongoing research is investigating their potential use in other types of cancer, often in combination with other medications. EGFR/HER2 dual-targeted drugs have overcome drug resistance associated with HER2-targeted monotherapy. This comprehensive review covers the structural characteristics of HER2, the HER family signaling pathway mechanism, recent findings regarding HER2 receptor involvement in various cancers, and diverse HER2-targeted therapies. This information provides a comprehensive understanding of HER2-targeted strategies in the evolving field of cancer treatment., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: The advent of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) unveiled the worst national blood crisis that the United States had witnessed in over a decade. With the pandemic influencing the different stages of the acquisition of blood products outside the hospital setting, we aimed to explore the possible barriers contributing to the shortage of blood products within the medical community., Aim: To assess the adherence to restrictive blood transfusion practices for patients in the COVID era and pre-COVID era., Methods: We conducted a retrospective cross-sectional study on hospitalized patients distinguishing the pattern of blood transfusion during the COVID and pre-COVID era in a community hospital. Data was tabulated to include the number of red blood cell (RBC) transfusions and if transfusions met restrictive blood transfusion criteria as per institutional guidelines. Chi-square was applied to test the statistical association between qualitative variables. Unpaired t test and Mann Whitney U test were applied respectively to test the mean difference of quantitative variables., Results: A total of 208 patients were included in the study, of which 108 were during COVID era and 100 were during pre-COVID era. The leading reason for admission in both the COVID era and pre-COVID era transfused patients was shortness of breath (53.7% and 36% P = 0.001), followed by gastrointestinal bleeding (25.9% and 21% P = 0.001). There was a higher percentage of RBC transfusions in the intensive care unit in the COVID-era group than in the pre-COVID era group (38.9% vs 22%, P = 0.008). The restrictive transfusion criteria were met in 62% vs 79% in the COVID and pre-COVID eras, respectively ( P = 0.008)., Conclusion: The COVID-era group received RBC transfusions with less stringent adherence to restrictive blood transfusion practices in comparison to pre-COVID era group., Competing Interests: Conflict-of-interest statement: Our study was conducted in adherence to a well-defined protocol. The authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest regarding the publication of this manuscript., (©The Author(s) 2024. Published by Baishideng Publishing Group Inc. All rights reserved.)

A female patient in her mid-60s presented with progressive shortness of breath, pleuritic chest pain and bilateral leg swelling for 1 week. Initial diagnostic workup revealed pericardial effusion, and a localised pericardial tubular mass on CT chest. Pericardial fluid analysis showed elevated white cells, with predominance of medium-large sized atypical lymphoid cells. Atypical lymphocytes stained positive for CD79a, CD10, PAX-5, BCL-2 and BCL6. Fluorescence in situ hybridisation testing demonstrated MYC and BCL6 rearrangements without BCL2 gene rearrangement. The overall morphological, immunohistochemical and cytogenetic findings supported a diagnosis of high-grade B cell lymphoma with MYC and BCL6 rearrangements. After extensive staging workup, localised disease involving the pericardium with a diagnosis of primary cardiac large B cell lymphoma was established. She was treated with dose-adjusted etoposide, prednisone, vincristine, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin and rituximab chemotherapy. Rituximab was discontinued owing to largely absent CD20 expression. Interim positron emission tomography-CT after three cycles revealed a complete response, and the patient completed six cycles of therapy., Competing Interests: Competing interests: None declared., (© BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2023. No commercial re-use. See rights and permissions. Published by BMJ.)

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a heterogeneous subtype of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that has been historically associated with poor 5-year overall survival rates, especially for aggressive variants. Traditional cytotoxic chemotherapy had been a mainstay of therapy for relapsed/refractory (R/R) MCL for many years until the advent of molecularly targeted therapies and cell-based approaches. However, a significant concern is the lack of definitive consensus guidelines for management of R/R MCL. The managerial conundrum partly stems from the absence of head-to-head comparisons of novel therapies, with conclusions drawn from cross-trial comparisons. In this evidence-based review, we discuss the current therapeutic options for R/R MCL, including the most recent data from the BRUIN study that led to the approval of the first-in-class non-covalent reversible Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor pirtobrutinib in 2023, as well as the recent removal of ibrutinib from the market. We discuss outlooks for targeted therapy and tolerability considerations for novel agents, including unique considerations for the elderly population. We highlight emerging data that support the curative potential of chimeric antigen receptor-T (CAR-T) therapy from ZUMA-2, relative to other promising investigational agents in the pipeline, including glofitamab, epcoritamab, and zilovertamab vedotin. We summarize management recommendations based upon the most rigorous clinical evidence to date., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest SAP served on the Multiple Myeloma advisory board for Pfizer, the COMMANDS trial advisory board for Bristol Myers Squibb, and the Acute Myeloid Leukemia advisory board for Bristol Myers Squibb. SAK and JG have no conflicts of interest., (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) has numerous cell wall and non-cell wall mediated receptors for drug action, of which cell wall mediated targets were found to be more promising because of their pivotal role in bacterial protection and survival. Herein, we reported the design and synthesis of a series of pyrazole-linked triazoles based on the reported structural features of promising drug candidates that target DprE1 receptors through a Structure-based drug design (SBDD) approach (6a-6j and 7a-7j). The synthesized compounds were evaluated for their in-vitro antitubercular activity against virulent strains of Mtb H37Rv. In-silico studies revealed that most compounds exhibit binding interactions with crucial amino acids like Lys418, Tyr314, Tyr60, and Asp386 at DprE1. Furthermore, the protein-ligand (7j) shows appreciable stability compared to innate protein in a 100 ns molecular dynamic simulation study. In-vitro MAB assay revealed that 14 compounds exhibit significant antitubercular activity with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the 3.15-4.87 μM of the 20 compounds tested. An in-vitro cytotoxicity study on normal cell lines (MCF10) revealed safe compounds (IC 50 values:341.85 to 726.08 μM). Hence, the present study opens the development of new pyrazole-linked triazoles as probable DprE1 inhibitors., (© 2023 Wiley-VHCA AG, Zurich, Switzerland.)