Genome Sequence Analysis of Calcifying Bacteria Bacillus paranthracis CT5 and Its Biomineralization Efficacy to Improve the Strength and Durability Properties of Civil Structures.

Bacteria producing urea amidohydrolases (UA) and carbonic anhydrases (CA) are of great importance in civil engineering as these enzymes are responsible for microbially induced calcium carbonate precipitation (MICCP). In this investigation, genomic insights of Bacillus paranthracis CT5 and the expression of genes underlying in MICCP were studied. B. paranthracis produced a maximum level of UA (669.3 U/ml) and CA (125 U/ml) on 5th day of incubation and precipitated 197 mg/100 ml CaCO3 after 7 days of incubation. After 28 days of curing, compressive strength of bacterial admixed and bacterial cured (B-B) specimens was 13.7% higher compared to water-mixed and water-cured (W-W) specimens. A significant decrease in water absorption was observed in bacterial-cured specimens compared to water-cured specimens after 28 days of curing. For genome analysis, reads were assembled de novo producing 5,402,771 bp assembly with N50 of 273,050 bp. RAST annotation detected six amidohydrolase and three carbonic anhydrase genes. Among 5700 coding sequences found in genome, COG gene annotation grouped 4360 genes into COG categories with highest number of genes to transcription (435 genes), amino acid transport and metabolism (362 genes) along with cell wall/membrane/envelope biogenesis and ion transport and metabolism. KEGG functional classification predicted 223 pathways consisting of 1,960 genes and the highest number of genes belongs to two-component system (101 genes) and ABC transporter pathways (98 genes) enabling bacteria to sense and respond to environmental signals and actively transport various minerals and organic molecules, which facilitate the active transport of molecules required for MICCP.

Isolation and characterization of thermostable and alkali-tolerant cellulase from litter endophytic fungus Bartalinia pondoensis.

Endophytic fungi in plant tissues produce a wide range of secondary metabolites and enzymes, which exhibit a variety of biological activities. In the present study, litter endophytic fungi were isolated from a fire-prone forest and screened for thermostable cellulases. Among nine endophytic fungi tested, two isolates, Bartalinia pondoensis and Phoma sp., showed the maximum cellulase activity. Bartalinia pondoensis was further selected for its cellulase production and characterization. Among the carbon and nitrogen sources tested, maximum cellulase production was observed with maltose and yeast extract, and the eucalyptus leaves and rice bran served as the best natural substrates. The cellulase activity increased with increasing temperature, with maximum activity recorded at 100 °C. The maximum CMCase activity was observed between pH 6.0 and 7.0 and retained 80% of its activity in the pH range of 8-10. Partially purified cellulase of B. pondoensis retained 50% of its activity after 2 h of incubation at 60 °C, 80 °C and 100 °C. These results suggest that litter endophytic fungus B. pondoensis is a potential source for the production of thermostable and alkali-tolerant cellulase.

Investigation of hub genes and their nonsynonymous single nucleotide polymorphism analysis in Plasmodium falciparum for designing therapeutic methodologies using next-generation sequencing approach.

BACKGROUND: Incidences of resistance to current drugs by Plasmodium is increasing, hence, it is necessary to investigate and explore new drug targets to combat malarial disease. OBJECTIVE: Analysis of the transcriptome sequence information to characterize hub genes and their nonsynonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms (nsSNPs) to derive therapeutic objectives for Plasmodium falciparum. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Differentially expressed genes between Ring and other stages of P. falciparum were identified using Cufflinks tool. Using DAVID and KAAS programs, the gene ontology and pathway analysis were performed. The networks of protein-protein interaction (PPI) were developed by Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins and Cytoscape, and the node degree in the network was calculated by using Network Analyzer, and MCODE plugins of Cytoscape. SIFT, PROVEAN, and PredictSNP programs were used to study the genetic variations, which affect protein functions. RESULTS: A list of 4196 nonredundant genes was used for functional annotation cluster analysis, and 8 significant hub genes have been picked from the PPI network using MCODE plugins of Cytoscape. Various nsSNPs were identified in these 8 hub genes and were investigated both for its native and mutant stage for solvent accessibility and alteration in secondary structure protein residues. CONCLUSION: Hub genes identified in this study serve as potential targets to develop therapy to suppress the pathogenic action of P. falciprum through experimental techniques.

Optical coherence tomography in oral cancer: A transpiring domain.

Identification of oral cancer at an early curable stage not only aids in controlling the mortality and morbidity rate but also improves the quality of life of the patient. Indeed, regular monitoring of such life-threatening disease has held an imperative role in cancer diagnostics. Various light-based diagnostics are currently available to the clinician for early diagnosis of oral cancer. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is one such emerging light-based diagnostic modality that provides noninvasive, real-time images at a depth of 1.5-2 mm and can also be compared to corresponding histopathological sections, hence this procedure can also be referred as optical biopsy. This technique can also be used as an adjunct to histopathology in circumstances where large areas are needed to be examined, screening apprehensive patients, larger populations, and for regular monitoring of patients. The current article is a brief review that highlights basic principle, various versions, and applications of OCT in the diagnosis of oral cancer.

"Quirky Bulb" On the Lower Jaw: An Organizing Haematoma.

Organizing Haematoma is a rare, non/neoplastic benign lesion with locally destructive behaviour that may mimic a malignancy. Usually symptoms do not occur, while the lesion remains localized. An Organized Haematoma is an encapsulated blood clot undergoing neovascularization and fibrosis. It has also been referred to as a hemophilic pseudotumour and/or a haematoma like tumour, which is rarely found in the head and neck region. Other reported cases have been related to trauma or an underlying haemangioma. However, most of the cases have no identifiable underlying pathology, trauma or systemic disease. We are reporting an unusual presentation of Organizing Haematoma over the edentulous mandible.

Community managed services for persons with intellectual disability: Andhra Pradesh experience.

In resource poor settings innovative and bottom-up approaches are required to provide services to people with with disabilities. In this context, the present paper explains a community-based model of manpower development and coordination of services for people with intellectual disabilities in unified state of Andhra Pradesh in India. Women with disabilities from the village were identified, and those willing to be trained to work as community resource persons (CRPs) were selected and given hands-on training in a phased manner. A total of 130 women were trained in five groups of 25-30 per group and were deployed in the community to screen, identify and refer children with intellectual disabilities. The training content included basic stimulation and interface with functionaries of other government departments of health, education and welfare to ensure comprehensive service delivery. Neighbourhood centres (NHCs) were established where the CRPs could meet with families collectively. The results indicated that the CRPs were welcomed by the families. The NHCs established primarily as recreation centres, promoted inclusion and functioned as information dissemination centre. The services provided by the CRPs were owned and monitored by the Women's self-help group and the disability groups thus ensuring sustainability of the model.

"Rhetoric to Reality"- Efficacy of Punica Granatum Peel Extract on Oral Candidiasis: An in vitro Study.

INTRODUCTION: Global usage of synthetic drugs inadvertently has resulted in deleterious effects and antimicrobial resistance. Phytoextarcts with therapeutic properties appear to be appropriate substitutes for synthetic drugs. Punica granatum (Pomegranate) is a fruit rich in nutraceuticals and therapeutic properties that has lead to its widespread use as folk-medicine for treating innumerable diseases. AIM: To determine the in vitro antifungal efficacy of Punica granatum peel extract against the oral Candida compared with clotrimazole. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An in vitro study was carried out on 60 saliva samples collected from patients confirmed by clinical and mycological examination as oral candidiasis and subjected to culture on Saborauds Dextrose Agar (SDA) medium and incubated at 37°C for 48 hours. The cultured Candida species were subjected to antifungal susceptibility test by agar well diffusion method. Punica granatum peel extract (Group-I), Ethanol (Group-II Negative control), Clotrimazole (Group-III-Positive control) were inoculated in wells and incubated. Zones of inhibitions were measured with a digital Vernier's callipers and subjected to statistical analysis. ANOVA (analysis of variance) was performed to compare inhibition zones and concentrations of all the three groups. RESULTS: Antifungal efficacy of Punica granatum group and Clotrimazole group were statistically significant with p-value <0.05. Additionally, with the increase in the concentration there was an increase in the inhibitory efficacy against Candida species. Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) of peel extract of Punica granatum approximated with that of the clotrimazole. CONCLUSION: The present research was just a venture to usual clinical approach. The results of the study reveal that MIC of peel extract of Punica granatum approximated with that of the clotrimazole. Hence, peel extract of Punica granatum may be used as a substitute for antifungal agents in clinical trials with standardization so as to minimize the deleterious effects for patient compliance.

Demystifying the Enigma of Smoking - An Observational Comparative Study on Tobacco Smoking.

INTRODUCTION: Smoking is a hazardous habit which causes definite changes in the oral cavity, consequently there exist changes in the mucosa when subjected to smoking. Palatal mucosa is first to be affected. The present study determines the palatal status in reverse smokers and conventional smokers. AIM: To study and compare the clinical, cytological and histopathological changes in palatal mucosa among reverse and conventional smokers. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Study sample was categorized into two groups. Group 1 comprised of 20 subjects with the habit of reverse smoking and Group 2 comprised of 20 subjects with the habit of conventional smoking. Initially, clinical appearance of the palatal mucosa was recorded, followed by a cytological smear and biopsy of the involved area among all the subjects. The findings were studied clinically, the specimens were analysed cytologically and histopathologically, and compared among the two groups. RESULTS: The severity of clinical changes of the palatal mucosa among reverse smokers was statistically significant when compared to those of conventional smokers. There was no statistically significant difference observed in cytological staging between the groups with a p-value of 0.35. The histopathological changes in both the groups showed a significant difference with a p-value of 0.02. A significant positive correlation was observed between the clinical appearance, and cytological, histopathological changes. CONCLUSION: Profound clinically aggressive changes were observed in group I compared to group II. Severity of dysplastic changes have been detected in few subjects through histopathological examination irrespective of no prominent clinical and cytological changes observed among the two groups.

Antioxidant and cytotoxic activity of carotenes produced by Dunaliella salina under stress.

Context Dunaliella salina Teodoresco (Dunaliellaceae) is one of the promising microalgae consumed as food and medicine for many years. Objective Dunaliella salina was grown under different stress conditions for enhancing carotene production. The carotene enriched extract was evaluated for antioxidant and cytotoxic activity. Materials and methods Carotene content was calculated under salinity, nitrogen and temperature stress conditions. Antioxidant activity was determined through DPPH assay by incubating the samples for 45 min with 250 µg/mL of extract and reducing power assay was performed with 50, 100, 150 and 200 µg/mL of extract. Cytotoxicity was determined by incubating ∼2 × 10(4) MCF-7 (breast cancer) cells with 250 µg of extract in each well for 72 h by MTT assay. Result Carotene content was significantly increased to 9.8 (3.5 M NaCl), 13.9 (37 °C), 8.2 (250 mM KNO3) and 10.6 µg/mL (nitrogen-depleted medium) as compared with 3.2 µg/mL in normal conditions (1.7 M NaCl, 0.75 mM KNO3 and 28 °C). Free radical scavenging activity increased at 3.0 and 3.5 M NaCl (27.8 and 57.5%, respectively), 37 °C (31.4%) and in nitrogen-depleted medium (41.9%) compared with normal (15%) conditions. Carotene content and scavenging activity were positively correlated under salinity (r = 0.97), temperature (r = 0.85) and nitrogen (r = 0.7) stress conditions. Cytotoxicity against MCF-7 cell lines increased due to increase in carotene content suggesting that cytotoxicity may be associated with carotene accumulation. Discussion and conclusions Carotene content enhanced by D. salina under stress conditions increased the antioxidant and cytotoxic activity.

Carrea's Index and Tooth Dimensions- An Avant-Garde in Stature Estimation: An Observational Study.

INTRODUCTION: Identifying victims in case of mass disasters when only human remains are present is quite a challenging task. Although other peripheral extremities of human body are used in estimating stature, in situations where only skull is available, teeth play an important role in personal identification. The present study used Carrea's index in stature estimation using tooth dimensions. AIM: This study is intended to correlate the anterior mandibular tooth dimensions with that of real stature using Carrea's index and also to know the applicability and validity of this index to the current study population. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 82 subjects (both males and females) which makes 164 hemiarches (normal, crowded and diastema) were included. Actual height of each subject was measured using anthropometer and tooth measurements from each cast were recorded and analyzed using Carrea's index. RESULTS: The results showed a strong correlation between estimated stature and real stature. Moreover, this correlation is more valid on male sample and right side of the inferior hemiarches (Normal-81.8% and 87.2%; Crowded-76.4% and 80%; Diastema-52.9% and 60% respectively). CONCLUSION: Although a correlation between actual stature and estimated stature was established, Carrea's index as a predictor tool may not give accurate estimations. Nevertheless, it could only act as an auxiliary tool in person identification.

Identifying risk groups for osteoporosis by digital panoramic radiography.

BACKGROUND: Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by low bone mass and microarchitectural deterioration of bone tissue, leading to bone fragility, and enhanced susceptibility to fractures. Dental radiographs, especially panoramic images, have been used to predict bone mineral density. A number of indices, (mandibular cortical index [MCI], mandibular cortical width [MCW], and panoramic mandibular index [PMI]) have been developed to assess and quantify the quality of mandibular bone mass and to observe the signs of resorption. OBJECTIVES: The objectives of the study were to assess mental index (MI), MCW index, and PMI with bone density in identifying risk group for osteoporosis and also to investigate influence of age and gender on MI, MCI, and PMI. MATERIALS AND METHODS: After obtaining consent, details regarding age, gender, systemic health status, and oral parafunctional habits were recorded in each patient. Then a digital panoramic radiograph was taken. The image thus obtained was subjected to calibrations and morphometric analysis using Digora version 2.7. The obtained values of indices were compared with the mean values of indices, to evaluate subjects whether they are prone to osteoporosis or not. The obtained information was subjected to statistical analysis for the significance of the parameters. RESULTS: Data analysis showed that calibration indices were highly significant in the assessment of risk group for osteoporosis than noncalibration index. The subjects at a higher risk for development of osteoporosis were old-aged adults with higher prevalence being reported in women compared to male subjects. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, our results suggest that higher percentage of subjects with undetected decreased bone mineral density may be identified based on trained general dental practitioners analyses of their panoramic radiographs using simple screening analytical calibration MI and MCI.

Comparison of the bite mark pattern and intercanine distance between humans and dogs.

BACKGROUND: Bite marks show uniqueness due to specific characteristics and arrangement of teeth, but when it comes to bite mark analysis, it is complicated by numerous factors such as animal bite, abuse etc., Humans and pet animals (dog) bite marks analysis is by far the most demanding and complicated part of forensic dentistry. AIM: To analyze and compare bite marks of humans and the pet animals (dog) using indirect method, so as to assess its usefulness and application in forensic odontology. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 40 samples including 20 humans (10 males and 10 females) and 20 dogs of different breed were included in the study. Bite registration of all the samples were obtained on modeling wax and intercanine distance were measured. Data were analyzed and results were tabulated. RESULTS: Arch size and intercanine distance showed variable differences among humans and on average dogs showed more intercanine distance and arch size. Among dog breeds larger dogs showed larger variables when compared to smaller dogs. CONCLUSION: Assessment of bite marks evidences made by animals needs further investigation so that it can be a tool to assist the justice system to answer crucial questions.

Are you willing to treat patients with HIV/AIDS? An anonymous survey among staff and students of dental institution.

BACKGROUND: India is one of the largest and most populated country in the world, with over one billion inhabitants. Of this number, it is estimated that around 23.9 lakh people are currently suffering with HIV. People living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) require increasingly competent and compassionate health care, including oral health care. OBJECTIVES: The present study was conducted with the objective of evaluating the response of dental health care professionals (staff and students) in willingness to provide treatment to HIV/AIDS patients and whether the training and education provided to them is sufficient to handle such patients, or whether there is necessity for advanced curriculum to be implemented. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An anonymous survey with the permission from ethical committee of dental institution was conducted with the use self-administered questionnaire eliciting information on self-rated HIV/AIDS knowledge, attitudes, infection control practices, occupational risk perception and willingness to treat HIV/AIDS patients. RESULTS: An increase in level of knowledge was observed with the increase in year of study from first BDS to post graduation and MDS staff. It was observed that interns and post graduate students were willing to treat patients with HIV/AIDS. Staff of the institution showed greater concern to undergo training to provide efficient treatment to patients with HIV/AIDS. CONCLUSION: It was concluded that there was a positive attitude and willingness of staff and students to treat a patient suffering with HIV/AIDS. Also, there was willingness and interest of the staff and students of the dental institution to participate in training programmes to provide better and more efficient treatment to HIV/AIDS patients.

Antral balloon sinus elevation and grafting prior to dental implant placement: review of 34 cases.

PURPOSE: The objective of this study was to assess the antral balloon technique for sinus elevation followed by bone graft and implant placement. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 34 patients with atrophic edentulous posterior maxillary ridges underwent antral balloon sinus elevation followed by bone grafting (autogenous bone retrieved from the chin mixed with platelet-rich plasma) and implant placement. RESULTS: The population consisted of 26 male and 8 female patients with a mean age of 42 years (range, 33 to 56 years). Successful sinus membrane balloon elevation was performed in all 34 patients, and 62 implants were placed. A membrane tear in one patient was managed intraoperatively by placement of a collagen membrane. Two implants failed within 6 months, and the survival rate of the other 60 implants was 100% after 3 years of follow-up. The mean inflated balloon volume was 1.96 mL and the mean elevated sinus height by balloon was 11.6 mm. An average bone gain of 7.5 mm (range, 5.2 to 10.5 mm) was observed. CONCLUSIONS: This case series demonstrates the feasibility of antral balloon sinus membrane elevation followed by bone augmentation and implant placement. This technique offers optimal assurance for membrane safety, and it is less invasive than the routine lateral window technique, safe, and associated with less postoperative bleeding and discomfort. This method is predictable, easy to learn, and associated with low complication rates. However, large comparative studies with other techniques are required.

Oral health status in haemodialysis patients.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the oral and dental manifestations in non- diabetic and diabetic uraemic patients who were undergoing haemodialysis and to estimate and compare the salivary pH in these two groups. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Ninety Seven uraemic patients who were undergoing maintenance haemodialysis were included in the study. Subjective and objective findings were evaluated and recorded in a specially designed proforma. Predialytic unstimulated whole salivary pH was recorded by using pH-measuring strips. Dental health assessment consisted of DMFT and CPITN indices. RESULTS: A subjective oral manifestation of dysguesia was found to be more significant in non-diabetic patients (p<0.008). Statistically, a high significance was observed with mucosal petechiae in 31.9% patients of diabetic group .The overall DMFT score was significantly higher in diabetic group. A moderate significance was found with a CPI score of 5 (p<0.015). The pH of saliva was significantly higher among diabetic patients. CONCLUSION: The diabetic subjects who were on haemodialysis were at a high risk for developing periodontal disease and they exhibited a potential threat for dental decay and xerostomia. A lower salivary pH and a poor glycaemic control may affect their oral health. Further research is required to clarify the combined influence of diabetic nephropathy on oral health.

Disguised ulcer of lip and buccal mucosa – rare clinicalmanifestation as tuberculosis: a case report / Úlcera de mucosa labial e bucal – uma rara manifestação clínica detuberculose: relato de caso clínico

Introduction: Oral tuberculosis is a chronic granulomatous disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly 2 billion people are infected with tuberculosis. Objective: To report a rare case of oral tuberculosis with ulcers at two different sites. Materials and methods: In order to emphasize the need to consider tuberculosis in the differential diagnosis of non-healing ulcers of oral cavity and the role of oral physician in preventing the spread of such lesions, this article presents a case of oral ulcers at two different sites, diagnosed as tuberculosis ulcer. Results: Oral cavity, which is considered to be a mirror of systemic health, rarely manifests tuberculosis. With increasing number of tuberculosis cases and unusual form of the disease in the oral cavity, the cases are likely to be misdiagnosed. Conclusion: An oral clinician should have a thorough knowledge of tuberculosis and its oral manifestations.

Introdução: A tuberculose oral é uma doença granulomatosa crônica causada pelo Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Segundo a Organização Mundial da Saúde (OMS), cerca de 2 bilhões de pessoas estão infectadas com tuberculose. Objetivo: Relatar um caso raro de tuberculose oral com úlceras em dois locais diferentes. Materiais e métodos: Para realçar a necessidade de considerar a tuberculose sob o diagnóstico diferencial das úlceras não curadas da cavidade oral e o papel do dentista na prevenção da propagação de tais lesões, este artigo apresenta um caso de úlceras orais em dois locais diferentes, diagnosticados como úlcera de tuberculose. Resultados: A cavidade oral, considerada como um espelho da saúde sistêmica, raramente manifesta a tuberculose. Com um número cada vez maior de casos de tuberculose e a forma não usual da doença na cavidade oral, os casos são frequentemente diagnosticados erroneamente. Conclusão: O dentista clínico geral deve ter um conhecimento profundo da tuberculose e de suas manifestações orais.

Influence of cigarette smoking on blood and salivary super oxide dismutase levels among smokers and non-smokers.

AIM: To determine the influence of smoking on the blood and salivary superoxide dismutase levels among smokers, and to demonstrate the significance in alterations in the levels of superoxide dismutase in association with patient age, periodontal disease status, and duration and smoking frequency. METHODS: Sixty healthy male patients (aged 20-60 years) constituted the target population. Blood and saliva samples were collected, and the periodontal index was measured using a Community Periodontal Index probe. Blood and salivary superoxide dismutase levels were calculated with the reagents prepared, and values were measured in a UV spectrophotometer. RESULTS: There was a significant decrease in mean superoxide dismutase levels with an increase in age and smoking duration and frequency (0.23-0.05 U/mL). There was a range of 0.31-0.06 U/mL variation in the mean superoxide dismutase levels as the periodontal disease condition deteriorated. CONCLUSIONS: There was a significant reduction in the superoxide dismutase levels in the blood and saliva of smokers with increased duration and frequency of smoking, and as the periodontal disease condition worsened. Thus, this study emphasizes the importance of saliva as an easy, non-invasive procedure in the diagnosis of patients who are more prone to precancerous lesions and conditions, and its importance in patient education and motivation programs for smoking cessation.

Randomized trial of aloe vera gel vs triamcinolone acetonide ointment in the treatment of oral lichen planus.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the effectiveness of aloe vera gel in the treatment of oral lichen planus when compared with triamcinolone acetonide. METHOD AND MATERIALS: A randomized, double-blind, clinical trial was designed. The study sample constituted 40 patients (23 males and 17 females) who were randomly divided into two equal groups. Group A patients received aloe vera gel, while group B patients received triamcinolone acetonide. RESULTS: Forty patients were included in the study. Most of the sample presented with erosive (n = 18) and atrophic (n = 14) variants of oral lichen planus. When clinical signs and symptoms were observed after 8 weeks of therapy, it was determined that aloe vera gel was more effective than triamcinolone acetonide in the treatment of oral lichen planus. CONCLUSION: Aloe vera gel can be considered a safe alternative treatment for oral lichen planus.

An aggressive lesion of anterior maxilla.

AIM: To understand the aggressiveness of lesions in immunocompromised patients. Central giant cell granuloma (CGCG) is a non-neoplastic intraosseous lesion, anterior to the molars and more commonly in the mandible. It is an uncommon lesion accounting for less than 7% of all benign jaw lesions found predominantly in children and young adults with a female predilection of about 2:1 ratio. CASE DESCRIPTION: A 22-year-old male patient came to the department with a growth in the anterior part of the maxilla with pain, rapid pace of growth and which recurred after initial excision as told to us in the case history. CONCLUSION: A diagnosis of CGCG of aggressive nature should be kept in mind, in a young immunocompromised patient. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: A recurrent lesion, with rapid pace of growth, associated with pain, a positive immunodeficient status, lesion in the anterior maxilla in a male patient, we can think of an aggressive CGCG.