Knowledge and Perception about Health Risks of Cigarette Smoking among Youngsters in Jazan Region, Saudi Arabia.

Context: Cigarette smoking is a global public health concern, particularly in developing countries. Saudi Arabia has a high prevalence of smoking among young individuals, highlighting the need for interventions to address this issue. Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the awareness, attitude, smoking rates, and perception of health risks among young individuals in the Jazan region of Saudi Arabia. The goal was to identify areas for improvement and develop effective strategies to combat smoking and promote healthier lifestyles. Methods and Materials: A cross-sectional survey was conducted at the out-patient department of the College of Dentistry, Jazan University, over a 3-month period. A questionnaire consisting of 15 open-ended questions was administered to eligible patients. Statistical Analysis Used: Statistical analysis was performed using the Chi-squared test with a P- value of <0.05. Results: Out of 300 participants, the majority were males, university students, and non-smokers. Among smokers, electronic cigarettes were the most used form. Starting smoking with friends was a common trend. Females smoked fewer times per day compared to males. Participants expressed concerns about the damaging effects of smoking on health. Conclusions: Targeted interventions and educational programs are needed to address smoking behaviors among young individuals in the Jazan region. Gender-specific interventions, family involvement, and promoting school connectedness are crucial in reducing smoking rates. Graphic health warnings on cigarette packs have the potential to improve knowledge and quitting intentions. Continued research and surveillance are necessary to inform evidence-based policies and interventions to combat youth smoking.

Effectiveness and Biocompatibility of Tooth Aligners Made from Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol (PeT-G), Polypropylene (PP), Polycarbonate (PC), Thermoplastic Polyurethanes (TPUs), and Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate (EVA): A Systematic Review.

Objective: This systematic review examines the efficacy and biocompatibility of orthodontic clear aligner tooth aligners constructed from polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PeT-G), polypropylene (PP), polycarbonate (PC), thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPUs), and ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). Materials and Methods: To find relevant papers published through September 2021, PubMed was searched extensively. Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) and observational studies assessing the effectiveness and biocompatibility of the aligner materials were included. Data were extracted independently, and the quality of included research was appraised using relevant procedures. The research variability necessitated a narrative synthesis. Results: Five studies were included for comparison. All materials were biocompatible; however, PeT-G and EVA aligners caused the least tissue irritation. Patients preferred TPU aligners for initial comfort and PeT-G aligners for transparency and endurance. Conclusion: Biocompatible PeT-G, PP, PC, TPU, and EVA tooth aligners fix malocclusions. Aligner materials should be chosen based on patient preferences, treatment goals, and material qualities. For stronger proof, a longer-term study is needed.

Artificial Intelligence in the Diagnosis of Oral Diseases: Applications and Pitfalls.

Background: Machine learning (ML) is a key component of artificial intelligence (AI). The terms machine learning, artificial intelligence, and deep learning are erroneously used interchangeably as they appear as monolithic nebulous entities. This technology offers immense possibilities and opportunities to advance diagnostics in the field of medicine and dentistry. This necessitates a deep understanding of AI and its essential components, such as machine learning (ML), artificial neural networks (ANN), and deep learning (DP). Aim: This review aims to enlighten clinicians regarding AI and its applications in the diagnosis of oral diseases, along with the prospects and challenges involved. Review results: AI has been used in the diagnosis of various oral diseases, such as dental caries, maxillary sinus diseases, periodontal diseases, salivary gland diseases, TMJ disorders, and oral cancer through clinical data and diagnostic images. Larger data sets would enable AI to predict the occurrence of precancerous conditions. They can aid in population-wide surveillance and decide on referrals to specialists. AI can efficiently detect microfeatures beyond the human eye and augment its predictive power in critical diagnosis. Conclusion: Although studies have recognized the benefit of AI, the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning has not been integrated into routine dentistry. AI is still in the research phase. The coming decade will see immense changes in diagnosis and healthcare built on the back of this research. Clinical significance: This paper reviews the various applications of AI in dentistry and illuminates the shortcomings faced while dealing with AI research and suggests ways to tackle them. Overcoming these pitfalls will aid in integrating AI seamlessly into dentistry.

Malondialdehyde, an Oxidative Stress Marker in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma-A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

OBJECTIVE: To qualitative and quantitatively review published literature assessing the oxidative stress marker malondialdehyde (MDA) in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). METHODOLOGY: Pubmed (MeSH), Science Direct, Scopus, Web of Science, Willey Online Library, Cochrane, and Cross Reference were searched for studies assessing MDA levels in OSCC samples. RESULTS: From the 1008 articles identified, 849 were excluded based on title and abstract screening due to duplication and irrelevance to the topic of interest. Full-text assessment of the remaining 159 articles led to the inclusion of only 46 articles that satisfied the selection criteria. Of these, only 26 studies had data compatible for quantitative analysis. The MDA levels in OSCC groups are significantly increased (p < 0.00001) in plasma, serum, and saliva samples in the majority of the studies evaluated. In contrast, MDA levels in OSCC tissue samples are significantly attenuated (p < 0.00001) compared to healthy controls, supported by fewer studies. CONCLUSIONS: The augmented MDA levels in plasma, serum, and saliva samples of the OSCC reflect the heightened oxidative stress level accurately. Further studies are required to understand the attenuated MDA levels in the tissue samples of OSCC. Correlation analysis between MDA levels with established clinicopathological prognostic markers could aid in formulating oxidative stress-based prognostication and treatment planning.

Adenolymphoma: A probing entity: Case report and review.

Warthin's tumor undoubtedly is the most frequent monomorphic adenoma of the major salivary glands. Clinically, it appears as a slow-growing tumor often fluctuant on palpation due to its cystic nature. The treatment of choice is complete excision with wide tumor-free margins. This article highlights a case of Warthin's tumor of the parotid gland in an elderly male patient along with a review of the literature on the aforementioned pathology.