Alterations in certain immunological parameters in the skin mucus of the carp, Cirrhinus mrigala, infected with the bacteria, Edwardsiella tarda.

The bacterial fish pathogen Edwardsiella tarda causes heavy stock mortality, severely hampering fish production, resulting in great economic loss to the farming industry. The first biological barriers that confer immune protection against pathogen entry are the fish mucosal surfaces. The present study was undertaken to investigate the influence of E. tarda on certain enzymatic and non-enzymatic parameters in the skin mucous secretions of the fish Cirrhinus mrigala using spectrophotometry and zymography. Fish were randomly divided into three groups: control, vehicle control, and infected. A sublethal dose of E. tarda (2.2 × 106 CFU/fish) suspended in 50 µL of PBS was injected intra-peritoneally at 0 day (d). Subsequently, mucus samples were collected at 2 d, 4 d, 6 d and 8 d post-infection. The activities of lysozyme (LYZ), protease (PROT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), acid phosphatase (ACP), catalase (CAT), peroxidase (PER), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione S-transferase (GST) decreased significantly in the skin mucus of the challenged fish, indicating the suppressed immune system and decreased antioxidant capacity of C. mrigala to E. tarda infection. Lipid peroxidation (LPO) and total nitrate-nitrite were significantly higher at several time points post-infection, suggesting that physiological functions have been impaired following pathogen challenge. The present findings could be relevant for fish aquaculture and underline the importance of skin mucus not only for assessing fish immune status but also for identifying early warning signals of disease caused by pathogens.

Gingival bleeding and pocket depth among smokers and the related changes after short-term smoking cessation.

BACKGROUND: Smoking is associated with the deteriorating health of the gingiva and periodontium. The long-term beneficial effects of smoking cessation on oral health are well known. However, the effects of short-term smoking cessation on gingival bleeding and periodontal pocket depth are unknown. The purpose of the present study was to determine the effects of short-term smoking cessation on gingival bleeding and periodontal pocket depth. METHODS: Dentate smokers with a mean age of 56.9 ± 14.4 years at an outpatient smoking cessation clinic participated in this study. A professional dentist checked the periodontal pocket depth and gingival bleeding. Patients visited the smoking cessation clinic on their first visit and 2, 4, 8, and 12 weeks (three months). The gingival assessment was re-performed in those who succeeded in smoking cessation 3 months after the baseline. RESULTS: The baseline data of 83 patients showed that an increase in pocket depth was associated with increasing age and the amount of smoking. A significant increase in gingival bleeding (p = .031) and increase in pocket depth (p = .046) were observed 3 months after the baseline in patients who successfully quit smoking (n = 14). CONCLUSION: Short-term smoking cessation increased periodontal pocket depth and gingival bleeding. These findings may reflect healing processes that occur in the healthy gingiva. IMPLICATIONS: Study findings will be useful to advise patients during smoking cessation programs. Dentists can inform patients that an initial increase in gingival bleeding and pocket depth could be associated with smoking cessation. Such advice will prevent patients from any apprehension that may cause them to recommence smoking.

Alterations in the epidermis of the carp, Labeo rohita (Cyprinidae: Cypriniformes), infected by the bacteria, Aeromonas hydrophila: A scanning electron microscopic, histopathological and immunohistochemical investigation.

This study was carried out to comprehend the pathogenicity of the bacteria in the epidermis of Labeo rohita inoculated with Aeromonas hydrophila. Alterations in the histopathology of the epidermis were examined using scanning electron microscopy, light microscopy and the localization of iNOS and caspase 3 + ve cells by means of immunohistochemical methods. Skin samples obtained from infected fish at different intervals 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 days showed significant changes in the cellular components of the epidermis. Epithelial cells often appeared hypertrophied with fragmented and loosely arranged microridges, and in the process of exfoliation. Mucous goblet cells increased significantly in density. Club cells showed degenerative changes, often with simultaneous confluence of adjacent cells and release of their contents. Increase in density of iNOS and caspase 3 + ve cells indicates inflammatory response and apoptosis. This study could provide valuable information on the pathogenesis of the disease, and disease outbreaks in farmed fish. Further, it could provide useful guidelines for fish farmers to take preventive measures for the control of the disease.

Characterisation of cholinesterases in mucous secretions and their localisation in epidermis of Labeo rohita and Cirrhinus mrigala.

Cholinesterases are multifunctional enzymes and have been associated with diverse physiological functions in addition to their classical role at synapses. In the present study, cholinesterase (ChE) isozymes have been characterised in mucous secretions and their activity has been localised in the epidermis of Labeo rohita and Cirrhinus mrigala. Zymography using specific substrates and inhibitors revealed the presence of two ChE isozymes-ChE-1 and ChE-2. The isozyme ChE-1 was characterised as an atypical butyrylcholinesterase and ChE-2 as a typical acetylcholinesterase in skin mucous secretions of both the fish species. Enzyme histochemical analysis demonstrated the presence of ChE activity in the epidermis of the fish species investigated. In both the fish species, strong ChE activity was observed in the outer-layer epithelial cells, taste buds and neuromasts. The middle and basal layer epithelial cells showed moderate to weak ChE activity. Club cells and mucous goblet cells showed the absence of ChE activity. Characterisation with specific inhibitors indicates that acetylcholinesterase (AChE) was the major cholinesterase type expressed in the epidermis of the two fish species investigated. Immunohistochemical localisation of apoptotic and cell proliferation markers, in addition, revealed high expression of active caspase 3 in the outer-layer epithelial cells, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) in the middle and basal layer epithelial cells. High ChE activity in caspase 3-positive cells in the outer layer of the epidermis and low in PCNA-positive cells in middle and basal layers could point towards the possible involvement of ChEs in cell death and their final extrusion from skin surface.

Role of aloin in the modulation of certain immune parameters in skin mucus of an Indian major carp, Labeo rohita.

Enhancement of immune system seems to be the most promising method of preventing fish diseases. Several herbal products have immunostimulant properties, and are environmental friendly, economical and can act against a broad spectrum of pathogens. Present study was designed with an aim to evaluate the role of aloin, extracted from a herb Aloe barbadensis, in the modulation of certain immune parameters in an Indian major carp, Labeo rohita. Fishes were divided into control, vehicle control and aloin treated groups. Experiments were conducted for 7 days and fishes from the three groups were analyzed at 2d, 4d, 6d and 8d. The results demonstrated that at different intervals, L. rohita administered with aloin showed a significant increase in the activity of enzymes - lysozyme, protease, carboxylesterase, alkaline phosphatase, acid phosphatase, catalase and peroxidase, and non-enzymatic factors hemagglutinin and alternate complement compared with that of the controls. Thus, it can be concluded that administration of aloin is beneficial in enhancing the immune response and hence it can be used as potent immunostimulant in aquaculture.

Alterations in the activity of certain enzymes in the gills of a carp Labeo rohita exposed to an azo dye, Eriochrome black T: a biochemical investigation.

In Labeo rohita exposed to sub-lethal concentrations of an azo dye, Eriochrome black T for 4 days, gills show considerable alterations in the activity of certain metabolic enzymes-alkaline phosphatase, acid phosphatase, carboxylesterase, lactate dehydrogenase, and succinate dehydrogenase; and antioxidant enzymes-catalase and peroxidase. The activities of alkaline phosphatase, acid phosphatase, carboxylesterase, succinate dehydrogenase, catalase, and peroxidase decline significantly. This has been associated with impaired metabolic function of the gills due to azo dye toxicity. The activity of lactate dehydrogenase, in contrast, shows a gradual increase, reflecting a shift from aerobic to anaerobic metabolism. In the fish kept for recovery for 8 days, after exposing the fish to the dye for 4 days, activity of succinate dehydrogenase, alkaline phosphatase, and lactate dehydrogenase gradually become similar to control. Nevertheless, activity of acid phosphatase, catalase, peroxidase, and carboxylesterase, although recover gradually, remained significantly low as compared to that of control. This study signifies that the dye is highly toxic to Labeo rohita and suggests that the activity of metabolic and antioxidant enzymes can be used as biomarker for fish toxicity.

Susceptibility Weighted With Quantitative Phase Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Differentiation of Various Stages of Hemorrhage and Calcification in Female Pelvic Pathologies: A Preliminary Study.

BACKGROUND: The purposes of this study were to assess the value of phase for characterization of female pelvic lesions with hemorrhage in various stages and to differentiate them from calcified lesions at 3.0-T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). METHODS: Forty-four female patients with hemorrhagic (n = 37) or calcified (n = 7) pelvic pathology underwent conventional MRI including susceptibility-weighted imaging with phase information. Hemorrhagic lesions were grouped into acute, subacute, and chronic, and calcified lesions were detected on the basis of conventional imaging findings. Phase quantification of these hemorrhagic and calcified lesions was performed. RESULTS: The phase values significantly differed (P < 0.001) among various stages of hemorrhage, as well as calcification (chronic hemorrhage, -65.09 ± 9.09 degrees; subacute hemorrhage, -11.41 ± 4.4 degrees; acute hemorrhage, -42.30 ± 5.20 degrees; and calcified lesions, 117.55 ± 12.93 degrees). CONCLUSIONS: Quantitative phase imaging has the potential to differentiate various stages of hemorrhagic and calcified pathologies. This may add value to the conventional MRI in improved characterization of these entities in female pelvic pathologies.

Evaluating the Effects of Varenicline on Craving, Withdrawal, and Affect in a Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial of Varenicline for Smokeless Tobacco Dependence in India.

This study examined changes in tobacco craving, withdrawal, and affect as correlates of efficacy in a phase-2 clinical trial of varenicline for smokeless tobacco dependence in India. Smokeless tobacco users (N = 237) at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences were randomized to placebo or varenicline. Abstinence was defined as cotinine-verified seven-day point prevalence cessation at end of treatment (EOT). General Linear Model repeated measures assessed the effects of treatment condition, time, abstinence state, and interaction effects on changes in craving, withdrawal, positive (PA) and negative affect (NA) from baseline to EOT. All participants showed a significant reduction in withdrawal (p < .001), total craving (p < .001), positive reinforcement (PR) craving (p < .001), and NA (p = .02), and an increase in PA (p = .04) from baseline to EOT. However, there were no differences between placebo and varenicline participants in measures of withdrawal, craving, or affect from baseline to week 3 or at EOT. Significant interactions between time and abstinence state were found for total craving (p = .008), PR craving (p < .001), and withdrawal (p = .001), indicating reductions in these processes among those abstinent vs. those still chewing smokeless tobacco. Additional research is needed concerning the effects of varenicline on craving, withdrawal, and affect among smokeless tobacco users.

Biochemical Validation of Self-Reported Smokeless Tobacco Abstinence among Smokeless Tobacco Users: Results from a Clinical Trial of Varenicline in India.

The validity of self-reported tobacco use is often questioned given the potential for underestimation of use. This study used data from a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial of varenicline for smokeless tobacco dependence in India to evaluate the accuracy of self-reported smokeless tobacco cessation using biochemical validation procedures and to evaluate correlates of reporting inaccuracy. Smokeless tobacco users attending a dental clinic at AIIMS were randomized to placebo or varenicline; all participants received counseling. Detailed smokeless tobacco use was recorded and abstinence was defined as cotinine-verified 7-day point prevalence cessation (cotinine < 50 ng/ml) and breath CO > 10 ppm at the end of 12 weeks of treatment. One-half of study completers (82/165) self-reported abstinence. Biochemical verification confirmed that (65.9%) subjects provided accurate self-reports while (34.1%) participants underreported tobacco use. These data indicate poor agreement between self-reported and biochemically confirmed abstinence (κ = -0.191). Underreporters of tobacco use had significantly higher baseline cotinine (p < 0.05), total craving (p < 0.012), and negative reinforcement craving (p < 0.001) vs. those whose self-reports were correctly verified. These findings provide evidence to support the need for biochemical validation of self-reported abstinence outcomes among smokeless tobacco users in cessation programs in India and identify high levels of pretreatment cotinine and craving levels as potential correlates of false reporting.

Functional mechanisms of drought tolerance in subtropical maize (Zea mays L.) identified using genome-wide association mapping.

BACKGROUND: Earlier studies were focused on the genetics of temperate and tropical maize under drought. We identified genetic loci and their association with functional mechanisms in 240 accessions of subtropical maize using a high-density marker set under water stress. RESULTS: Out of 61 significant SNPs (11 were false-discovery-rate-corrected associations), identified across agronomic traits, models, and locations by subjecting the accessions to water stress at flowering stage, 48% were associated with drought-tolerant genes. Maize gene models revealed that SNPs mapped for agronomic traits were in fact associated with number of functional traits as follows: stomatal closure, 28; flowering, 15; root development, 5; detoxification, 4; and reduced water potential, 2. Interactions of these SNPS through the functional traits could lead to drought tolerance. The SNPs associated with ABA-dependent signalling pathways played a major role in the plant's response to stress by regulating a series of functions including flowering, root development, auxin metabolism, guard cell functions, and scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS). ABA signalling genes regulate flowering through epigenetic changes in stress-responsive genes. ROS generated by ABA signalling are reduced by the interplay between ethylene, ABA, and detoxification signalling transductions. Integration of ABA-signalling genes with auxin-inducible genes regulates root development which in turn, maintains the water balance by regulating electrochemical gradient in plant. CONCLUSIONS: Several genes are directly or indirectly involved in the functioning of agronomic traits related to water stress. Genes involved in these crucial biological functions interacted significantly in order to maintain the primary as well as exclusive functions related to coping with water stress. SNPs associated with drought-tolerant genes involved in strategic biological functions will be useful to understand the mechanisms of drought tolerance in subtropical maize.

A double-blind placebo-controlled randomized trial of varenicline for smokeless tobacco dependence in India.

INTRODUCTION: The rate of smokeless tobacco use in India is 20%; its use causes serious health problems, and no trial has assessed behavioral or pharmacological treatments for this public health concern. This trial evaluated varenicline for treating smokeless tobacco dependence in India. METHODS: This was a double-blind placebo-controlled randomized trial of varenicline (12 weeks, 1mg, twice per day) with 237 smokeless tobacco users in India. All participants received behavioral counseling. Outcomes included self-reported and biochemically verified abstinence at the end of treatment (EOT), lapse and recovery events, safety, and medication adherence. RESULTS: Self-reported EOT abstinence was significantly greater for varenicline (43%) versus placebo (31%; adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 2.6, 95% CI = 1.2-4.2, p = .009). Biochemically confirmed EOT abstinence was greater for varenicline versus placebo (25.2% vs. 19.5%), but this was not statistically different (AOR = 1.6, 95% CI = 0.84-3.1, p = .15). Compared with placebo, varenicline did not reduce the risk for a lapse (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.86, 95% CI = 0.69-1.1, p = .14), but it did increase the likelihood of recovery to abstinence (HR = 1.2, 95% CI = 1.02-1.4, p = .02). Greater adherence increased EOT cessation rates for varenicline (39% vs. 18%, p = .003) but not for placebo (28% vs. 14%, p = .06). There were no significant differences between varenicline and placebo in rate of side effects, serious adverse events, hypertension, or stopping or reducing medication. CONCLUSIONS: Varenicline is safe for treating smokeless tobacco dependence in India, and further examination of this medication for this important public health problem is warranted.

The first evidence of cholinesterases in skin mucus of carps and its applicability as biomarker of organophosphate exposure.

The presence of cholinesterase (ChE) activity in skin mucus of three carps, Cirrhinus mrigala, Labeo rohita, and Catla catla and its applicability as biomarker of the organophosphorus insecticide exposure were investigated. Biochemical characterization, using specific substrates and inhibitors, indicated that measured esterase activity in skin mucus was mainly owing to ChEs. Significant difference in the proportion of acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase activities was observed in skin mucus of three carps. Enzyme kinetic analysis, using the substrate acetylthiocholine iodide revealed significantly high Vmax value in C. catla compared to that in L. rohita and C. mrigala. In contrast, Vmax value using the substrate butyrylthiocholine iodide was significantly high in C. mrigala than in L. rohita and C. catla. In vitro treatment of skin mucus of three carps, with the organophosphorus insecticide Nuvan®, showed strong inhibition of ChE activities. In vivo experiments conducted using C. mrigala and exposing the fish to the sublethal test concentrations (5 and 15 mg/L) of the insecticide also revealed significant inhibition of ChE activity in mucus. In C. mrigala, exposed to the sublethal test concentrations of the insecticide for 4 days and then kept for recovery for 16 days, mucus ChE activity recovered to the control level. Thus, ChE activity in skin mucus could be considered a good biomarker of the organophosphorus insecticide exposure to fish and a useful tool in monitoring environmental toxicity.

Characterization of carboxylesterase in skin mucus of Cirrhinus mrigala and its assessment as biomarker of organophosphate exposure.

Presence of carboxylesterase (CbE) activity in the skin mucus of Cirrhinus mrigala was investigated. CbE activity in skin mucus showed higher substrate preference for α-naphthyl acetate over p-nitrophenyl acetate. Four CbE isozymes-CbE-1, CbE-2, CbE-3, and CbE-4 were observed in skin mucus during zymography. The isozyme CbE-4 was characterized as typical serine esterase, whereas CbE-1, CbE-2, and CbE-3 were identified as sulphhydryl group-dependent serine esterases. In vitro treatment of skin mucus with the organophosphorus insecticide, Nuvan(®) showed strong inhibition of CbE activity. In vivo exposure of the fish to sublethal test concentrations (5 and 15 mg/l) of the insecticide also revealed significant inhibition of CbE activity in mucus. After the cessation of exposure, CbE activity recovered to its control level during the recovery periods. Thus, CbE activity in skin mucus could be considered a biomarker of the organophosphorus insecticide exposure to fish and a useful tool in monitoring environmental toxicity.

Complete versus incomplete caries removal procedures and their effects on dental pulp in primary teeth - An in vivo study.

INTRODUCTION: Dental caries results from an ecologic shift within the dental biofilm from a balanced population of microorganisms to an acidogenic, aciduric, and cariogenic microbiological population developed and maintained by frequent consumption of fermentable dietary carbohydrates. Total caries removal (TCR) of deep lesion may result in pulpal exposure requiring more invasive treatment. Hence, current pediatric dentistry has shifted to minimally invasive treatment that avoids more complex, time-consuming procedure, and the child's discomfort. AIM: The aim of this study is to evaluate and compare clinical performance and radiographic changes after complete and incomplete caries removal procedures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study was conducted on 60 primary molars in children aged 6-9 years. Selected 60 primary molars were randomly divided into two groups. Group 1 (PCR): infected dentin was removed, while the affected dentin was maintained on the pulpal wall. Group 2 (TCR): both infected and affected dentin were removed through low-speed carbide bur and hand excavator. Teeth were evaluated at 4 and 6 months clinically and radiographically. RESULTS: The proportion was compared using Fisher's exact test. The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 21 was used for analysis. The level of significance was kept at 5%. CONCLUSION: The clinical and radiographic success rates of ICR and CCR in primary teeth with deep carious lesions were high and did not differ significantly, indicating that the retention of carious dentin does not interfere with pulp vitality. Thus, ICR is a reliable minimally invasive approach that might replace the CCR in primary teeth when correctly indicated.

Assessment of triclosan induced histopathological and biochemical alterations, and molecular docking simulation analysis of acetylcholinesterase enzyme in the gills of fish, Cyprinus carpio.

Triclosan (TCS), an antimicrobial additive in various personal and health care products, has been widely detected in aquatic environment around the world. The present study investigated the impacts of TCS in the gills of the fish, Cyprinus carpio employing histopathological, biochemical, molecular docking and simulation analysis. The 96 h LC50 value of TCS in C. carpio was found to be 0.968 mg/L. Fish were exposed to 1/1000th (1 µg/L), 1/100th (10 µg/L), and 1/10th (100 µg/L) of 96 h LC50 value for a period of 28 days. The histopathological alterations observed in the gills were hypertrophy, hyperplasia, edematous swellings, and fusion of secondary lamellae in TCS exposed groups. The severity of these alterations increased with both the concentration as well as the duration of exposure. The present study revealed that the activity of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione-S-transferase, glutathione reductase, glutathione peroxidase, and reduced glutathione content decreased significantly (p < 0.05) in both concentration and duration dependent manner. However, a significant (p < 0.05) increase in the activity of the metabolic enzymes such as acid phosphatase and alkaline phosphatase was observed in all three exposure concentrations of TCS from 7 to 28 days. The activity of acetylcholinesterase declined significantly (p < 0.05) from 7 to 28 days whereas the content of acetylcholine increased significantly at the end of 28 day. The experimental results were further confirmed by molecular docking and simulation analysis that showed strong binding of TCS with acetylcholinesterase enzyme. The study revealed that long-term exposure to sublethal concentrations of TCS can lead to severe physiological and histopathological alterations in the fish.

In vitro analysis of material micro-leakage in pit and fissure sealants.

A preferable choice of material offers superior resistance against micro-leakage for clinical applications in preventing dental caries in pits and fissures is of interest. A total of 45 extracted human premolars were cleaned, stored in a saline solution, and randomly divided into three groups, each intended for treatment with one of the sealants: Fuzi VII, ClinPro, and Embrace Wetbond. The application of the sealants followed the manufacturers' instructions strictly. The teeth were subjected to thermal cycling to simulate oral conditions. Marginal micro-leakage was then assessed by dye penetration method using a 0.5% methylene blue dye. Teeth were sectioned, and dye penetration was measured under a stereomicroscope. The results showed that all the tested materials exhibited some degree of micro-leakage. Within the limitations of this In vitro study, it was concluded that Embrace Wetbond exhibited superior performance in terms of minimizing marginal micro-leakage among the tested pit and fissure sealants.

A Subjective Assessment of Chemotherapy Drug-Induced Taste and Smell Alteration in Non-head and Neck Cancer Patients: A Questionnaire-Based Cross-Sectional Study.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate alterations in taste and smell perceptions among non-head and neck cancer patients receiving chemotherapy, aiming to identify factors influencing these changes. METHODS: A cohort of 70 non-head and neck cancer patients undergoing one to four cycles or more than four cycles, over a six-month period, from oncology outpatient clinics was recruited. Participants completed structured taste and smell questionnaires with assistance from interviewers. Demographic data, recurrence history, chemotherapy cycles, drug regimens, and taste and smell perceptions were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests. RESULTS: The mean age of participants was 46.5 years, with a predominance of females (81.4%) and breast cancer cases (42.9%). Taste changes were more prevalent (62.9%) than smell changes (32.9%) post chemotherapy, particularly among those on combination drug regimens. Salty taste alterations were the most common (30.0%), followed by sweet taste (22.9%) and sour/bitter tastes (14.3%). Moreover, 38.57% of patients reported experiencing dysgeusia, while 30% noted the occurrence of parosmia post chemotherapy. CONCLUSION: Chemotherapy-induced alterations in taste and smell significantly impact the quality of life and nutritional status of cancer patients. Despite often being overlooked, these changes warrant increased attention in oncological practice to inform treatment decisions and enhance symptom management, particularly in palliative care settings. Further research is needed to explore the implications of chemosensory alterations on patient outcomes and treatment strategies.

The Impact of Rubber Dam Association With Physiological Stress Parameters on Children of 7-10 Years Undergoing Pit and Fissure Sealant Treatment: An In-Vivo Study.

Introduction Anxiety is an emotion representing apprehension towards an unknown stimulus or situation. Rubber dam application during dental procedures in children makes the treatment more comfortable and acceptable as it gives them a psychological feeling that treatment is being carried out outside the oral cavity. The prime objective of this study was to evaluate and compare physiological parameters, which include pulse rate, arterial oxygen saturation level, blood pressure, and respiratory rate before and after rubber dam isolation. Material and methods The study consisted of 30 children patients of 7-10 years, comprised of 14 females and 16 males with a mean age of 8.15 ± 0.93 years. The study was a 'split mouth' clinical design study, where 60 sites in 30 patients (two sites in each patient) were used. The selected sites were divided into two groups by a convenience sampling method and were categorized as Group-I (control group - 30 sites were treated with pit and fissure sealants under cotton roll and saliva ejectors on mandibular right permanent first molar) and Group-II (study group - 30 sites were treated with pit and fissure sealants underrubber dam isolation on mandibular left permanent first molar). Results Rubber dam application reduced different physiological parameters of stress such as pulse rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and respiratory rate at different intervals from the baseline values. Rubber dam and cotton roll applications have no significant effects on oxygen saturation levels at different intervals in healthy individuals. From statistical analysis, it was evident that a statistically significant difference was evident between the control and experimental groups (P value < 0.005). Conclusion It is confirmed in this study that rubber dam reduces different physiologic parameters of stress. After the application of the rubber dam, children's pulse rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and respiratory rate were reduced. Clinical significance The study highlights the imperative role of rubber dam isolation in improving dental and medical effectiveness. In addendum to this, our research promotes the clinical use of rubber dams in pediatric dentistry.

Harnessing the neuroprotective effect of oral administration of benfotiamine in MPTP induced Parkinson's disease in rats.

The study was performed to evaluate the neuroprotective effects of Benfotiamine (BFT) in 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-induced Parkinson's disease (PD) in rats. The rats were given daily doses of BFT (100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg) through oral administration for 42 days. The rats were given a single bilateral dosage of MPTP (0.1 mg/nostril) intranasally once before the drug treatment to induce PD. On day 42, the animals were subjected to various behavioral paradigms. Post-treatment with BFT for 42 days significantly improved the motor and nonmotor fluctuations of MPTP. The results demonstrated that treatment with BFT ameliorated MPTP-induced disorders in behavior, body balance, and dopamine levels in the mid-brain. Among the post-treated groups, a high dose of BFT was the most effective treatment. Mean values are indicated in ±SEM, n = 5***(p < 0.001) when compared with the vehicle control, n = 5 ### (p < 0.001) when compared with the disease control; (p < 0.001) when compared with the BFT per se; (p < 0.001) when compared with the low dose of BFT; (p < 0.001) when compared with the high dose of BFT. Our finding suggests that BFT contributed to superior antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory and could be a novel therapeutic method for PD management. In conclusion, BFT could be a potential drug candidate for curbing and preventing PD.

Impact of smoking initiation age on nicotine dependency and cardiovascular risk factors: a retrospective cohort study in Japan.

Aims: Initiating smoking in early adolescence results in challenges with smoking cessation and is associated with high risk of cardiovascular disease. Recently, the initiation of smoking has transitioned from adolescence to young adulthood. However, there are few reports on the impact of initiating smoking at a later age. This study investigated the impact of the age of smoking initiation on nicotine dependency, smoking cessation rates, and cardiovascular risk factors, using a cut-off point of 20 years, within the Japanese population. Methods and results: This retrospective cohort study encompassed 1382 smokers who sought smoking cessation treatment at Kyoto Medical Centre Hospital between 2007 and 2019. Clinical indicators were evaluated by adjusting for age at the time of hospital visit and sex. The smoking cessation rate was further adjusted for treatment medication. The group with a smoking initiation age of <20 years reported a higher number of cigarettes/day (P = 0.002), higher respiratory carbon monoxide levels (P < 0.001), a higher Fagerström Test for Nicotine Dependence (FTND) score (P < 0.001), and a higher Self-rating Depression Scale score (P = 0.014). They also reported lower diastolic blood pressure (P = 0.020) and a lower successful smoking cessation rate [odds ratio: 0.736, 95% confidence interval (0.569, 0.951)] than the group with a smoking initiation age of ≥20 years. When smokers were divided into four groups based on the age they started smoking, the FTND score for those who started at 20-21 years was significantly higher than the score for those who started at 22 years or older. Conclusion: In young adulthood, initiating smoking later (beyond 20 years old) was associated with lower nicotine dependency and fewer depressive tendencies, as well as a higher success rate in smoking cessation among Japanese smokers. The results might suggest that raising the legal smoking initiation age from 20 to 22 years old or older could be effective in reducing nicotine dependency in smokers.