Correction: Sundaram et al. Effects of Intermediate Frequency (150 kHz) Electromagnetic Radiation on the Vital Organs of Female Sprague Dawley Rats. Biology 2023, 12, 310.

In the original publication [...].

Identifying the Influencing Factors for the BMI by Bayesian and Frequentist Multiple Linear Regression Models: A Comparative Study.

Background: In this article, we attempt to demonstrate the superiority of the Bayesian approach over the frequentist approaches of the multiple linear regression model in identifying the influencing factors for the response variable. Methods and Material: A survey was conducted among the 310 respondents from the Kathirkamam area in Puducherry. We have considered the response variable, body mass index (BMI), and the predictors such as age, weight, gender, nature of the job, and marital status of individuals were collected with the personal interview method. Jeffreys's Amazing Statistics Program (JASP) software was used to analyze the dataset. In the conventional multiple linear regression model, the single value of regression coefficients is determined, while in the Bayesian linear regression model, the regression coefficient of each predictor follows a specific posterior distribution. Furthermore, it would be most useful to identify the best models from the list of possible models with posterior probability values. An inclusion probability for all the predictors will give a superior idea of whether the predictors are included in the model with probability. Results and Conclusions: The Bayesian framework offers a wide range of results for the regression coefficients instead of the single value of regression coefficients in the frequentist test. Such advantages of the Bayesian approach will catapult the quality of investigation outputs by giving more reliability to solutions of scientific problems.

Effects of Intermediate Frequency (150 kHz) Electromagnetic Radiation on the Vital Organs of Female Sprague Dawley Rats.

Exposure to electromagnetic radiation (EMR) from intermediate frequency sources has increased exponentially in recent years. The consequences of this exposure on biological systems are prompting scientists to study the effects on human health. This current study aimed to determine the effects of intermediate frequency (150 kHz) EMR exposure on the vital organs of female Sprague Dawley rats. The EMR group (n = 10 animals) was exposed to a frequency of 150 kHz with an intensity of 65 ± 15 µW/cm2 for two months. The control group (n = 10 animals) was exposed to an intensity of 35 ± 15 nW/cm2. Haematological, histochemical, gross, and histopathological profiles of all major organs of all animals were then performed using standard procedures. All major organs generally showed no significant detectable effects in either the control or EMR groups. However, gross and histopathological examinations revealed the effects of EMR on the liver and lungs, which showed inflammatory changes without significant biochemical/haematological manifestations. In addition, a significant increase in serum sodium level and a decrease in serum urea level were also observed in the EMR group. It can be concluded that the current frequency and duration of exposure trigger the changes in the liver and lungs but are not sufficient to cause clinical and functional manifestations. Therefore, a long-term exposure study might be helpful to determine the effects of 150 kHz IF EMR on these organs.

A novel management of vertical root fracture in an endodontically treated mandibular premolar with titanium screw: A case report.

Introduction: Vertical root fracture is one of the conditions prevalent in endodontically treated teeth. The treatment options include extraction of the fracture fragment or the affected tooth as a whole. This case report highlights the successful management of vertical root fracture in an endodontically treated mandibular first premolar. Method: Surgical intervention was initiated, and a full-thickness flap was elevated. The separated fracture segment was safely retrieved, and the existing caries were removed and then reattached to the main fragment with the help of a titanium screw. The tooth was rehabilitated with a composite resin core followed by a porcelain-fused metal crown and the patient was followed up for 7 years. Result: The tooth was functional with evidence of new bone formation. Conclusion: Reattachment of the fracture fragments with a titanium screw might be considered as an option for managing vertical root fracture cases with poor prognosis.

Removal of accumulated hard tissue debris from mesial root of mandibular molars evaluated using micro-CT - a systematic review and network meta-analysis.

Aim The aim of this systematic review and network meta-analysis was to identify the best irrigant activation technique (IAT) for the removal of accumulated hard tissue debris (AHTD) from the mesial root of mandibular molars evaluated using micro-CT studies.Methods The research question was based on the PICO format. Four electronic databases - PubMed, Scopus, Embase and Web of Science - were searched for articles up to June 2020. Selected articles were assessed for bias using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical appraisal tool. The network meta-analysis using a fixed-effects model and SUCRA ranking were performed. The quality of the evidence was assessed using the CINeMA framework.Results Eleven studies were included for qualitative synthesis while seven were included for quantitative synthesis. The risk of bias of all included articles was low. The results based on SUCRA values revealed the IAT shock wave-enhanced emission photoacoustic streaming (100%) resulted in the greatest reduction of the volume of AHTD from mesial roots of mandibular molars. Ranking of the other IATs was as follows: photon-induced photoacoustic streaming (87%), laser-activated irrigation (79.3%), XP EndoFinisher (71.2%), ultrasonically activated irrigation (59.6%), apical negative pressure (42.3%), EasyClean (37.4%), EDDY (26.2%), EndoActivator (24.2%), self-adjusting file (11.6%) and needle irrigation (11.3%).Conclusion None of the IATs rendered the root canals completely free of AHTD. The laser-activated irrigation groups fared better than all other interventions in reducing AHTD from the mesial roots of mandibular molars. The confidence rating ranged from low to high for indirect evidence and moderate to high for mixed evidence. Results must be interpreted with caution due to the laboratory nature of the included studies.

Acute and subacute toxicity evaluation of hydroalcoholic extract from the stem bark of Bois Bande (Parinari campestris Aubl.1772) in rats.

INTRODUCTION: The bark of Bois Bande (Parinari campestris) is a popular aphrodisiac in the Caribbean that has been traditionally used for many years to restore sexual vitality, increase sperm count, and treat erectile dysfunction, without valid scientific data. Acute and 28-day subacute toxicity studies were conducted to evaluate the safety of the hydroalcoholic extract of P.campestris bark and to find a safe dose for human use in conventional medicine. METHODS: The acute toxicity study used a single oral dose of P.campestris extract at four separate doses, 5, 50, 300, and 2,000 mg/kg, and was seen for 14 days, while the subacute toxicity study used a daily oral dose of P.campestris extract at 3 different doses, 100, 300, and 1000 mg/kg/day for 28 days. RESULTS: The LD50 of P.campestris extract was found to be greater than 2000 mg/kg in the acute toxicity study. P.campestris extract did not show toxicity at 1000 mg/kg/day in subacute toxicity trial; NOAEL was 1000 mg/kg/day in rats. However, the body weight was increased in males. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, 1000 mg/kg P.campestris extract can be considered safe and non-toxic in males.

Complete genome sequence of sacbrood virus isolated from Asiatic honey bee Apis cerana indica in India.

We determined the complete genome sequence of a sacbrood virus (SBV) infecting Indian honey bee (Apis cerana indica) from Tamil Nadu, India named as AcSBV-IndTN1. The genome of AcSBV-IndTN1 comprised of 8740 nucleotides, encoding a single large ORF containing 2849 amino acids flanked by 5' and 3' untranslated regions. Results of phylogenetic tree analysis based on complete genomes of SBV isolates indicated that the virus isolates from India isolated from the Asiatic honey bee A. cerana (AcSBVs) formed a separate group along with six Vietnam isolates and three Chinese isolates. The AcSBV-IndTN1 isolate showed closer genetic relationship with other isolates from India. The second major group had both AcSBVs and AmSBVs (virus isolated from European honey bee, Apis mellifera SBV) of Korea, China and Vietnam. The third and a distantly related group had AmSBVs of Australia, UK, USA and Korea. The results obtained from phylogenetic analysis were further supported with evolutionary distance analysis. AcSBV-IndTN1 isolate open reading frame had 95-99% amino acid sequence similarity with other Indian isolates and 92-96% with AcSBVs and AmSBVs of other geographical locations. In addition, sequence difference count matrix ranged from 154 to 907 nt among all the SBV isolates. This suggests that the virus isolates have evolved significantly in different geographical locations but isolates on different hosts in a given location/country are closely related. The high similarity in the genome among the AcSBV and AmSBV isolates indicate possible cross-infections and recombination of SBV isolates in Asian continent where both the honey bee species are reared in close proximity. Gene flow between SBV population indicating that an infrequent gene flow occur between them. The pattern of molecular diversity in SBV population revealed that the occurrence of recent population expansion of SBV. To the best of our knowledge this is the first report of the complete nucleotide sequence of AcSBV from Tamil Nadu, India. This study provided an opportunity to establish the molecular evolution of SBV isolates and shall be useful in the development of diagnostics and effective disease control strategies.

Demonstration of acid and water recovery systems: Applicability and operational challenges in Indian metal finishing SMEs.

Diffusion dialysis, acid retardation and nanofiltration plants were acquired from Europe and demonstrated in several Indian metal finishing companies over a three year period. These companies are primarily small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Free acid recovery rate from spent pickling baths using diffusion dialysis and retardation was in the range of 78-86% and 30-70% respectively. With nanofiltration, 80% recovery rate of rinse water was obtained. The demonstrations created awareness among the metal finishing companies to reuse resources (acid/water) from the effluent streams. However, lack of efficient oil separators, reliable chemical analysis and trained personnel as well as high investment cost limit the application of these technologies. Local manufacturing, plant customization and centralized treatment are likely to encourage the uptake of such technologies in the Indian metal finishing sector.

Incidence of fur mite infestation in laboratory rodents.

Incidence of fur mites in laboratory rodents is reported. Among mice, infestation was found to be highest in male Swiss Albino mice followed by female Swiss Albino mice, male Balb C mice and female Balb C mice. Infestation in Guinea pigs was 50 %. None of the rats screened were found to be positive for fur mites. Species of fur mites identified were Myocoptesmusculinus in mice and Chirodiscoidescaviae in Guinea pigs. Clinical signs in affected animals are also reported.

A comparative evaluation on the cleaning and shaping ability of three nickel titanium rotary instruments using computerized tomography - An ex vivo study.

INTRODUCTION: Successful root canal treatment depends primarily on the removal of micro-organisms through chemo-mechanical instrumentation of the root canal system. This encompasses shaping by mechanical removal of the dentine and cleaning by chemical disinfection of microorganisms and dissolution of organic tissues from the root canal. While root canal shaping can be predictably and efficiently attained with advanced instrumentation technology, effective cleaning of the entire root canal system remains a challenge. Rotary nickel titanium instruments are known for their efficient preparation of root canal. This is mainly because of the super elasticity of the nickel titanium alloy which gives an increased flexibility and allows the instrument to efficiently follow the original path of root canal. The purpose of this study is to compare the cleaning efficiency and shaping ability of M two, K3, Race ni-ti rotary instruments during the preparation of curved canals in extracted molars. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty teeth with 18 mm as their working length were selected and divided into three groups of 10 teeth each Angle of curvature, Radius of curvature, was determined using computerized tomography. A Pre and Post-operative measurement of canal width and volume was recorded and compared using CT. The teeth was then sectioned into two halves and subjected to scanning electron microscope. Images were taken at the level of apical third, middle third and coronal third for debris and smear layer. Scoring was done separately for both debris and smear layer. RESULTS: Results were tabulated and statistically analyzed to evaluate the shaping ability and cleaning efficiency. Instruments were examined for any deformation or fracture during canal preparation. CONCLUSION: M two showed greater enlargements in all the three levels, when compared its width and volume, with other two instruments. K3 was better than Race when compared among them. In the scanning electron microscope study for debris and smear layer M Two performed better followed by K3 and Race.

Evaluation of the effect of surface moisture on dentinal tensile bond strength to dentine adhesive: An in vitro study.

AIM: To evaluate the effect of surface moisture on dentinal tensile bond strength. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty freshly extracted caries free, unrestored human mandibular molars were selected. The occlusal surfaces of each tooth were ground to prepare flat dentin surfaces at a depth of 1.5 mm. Following acid etching with 37% phosphoric acid for 15 sec, they were randomly grouped, with ten specimens in each: Group I - Over wet, Group II - Blot dry, Group III- One second dry, Group IV- Over dry. Each group was treated with a single bond adhesive system (3M ESPE) as per manufacturer's instructions. Blocks or cylinders of composite resin were built up using Teflon mould and cured. Tensile bond strengths were tested using Instron universal testing machine. The results were statistically analyzed. RESULTS: The mean tensile bond strength values of group II, Blot dry was highest and statistically significant (P<0.001). CONCLUSION: After acid etching and rinsing blot drying provided consistently better bond strength.

Comparison of temperature rise in the pulp chamber with different light curing units: An in-vitro study.

AIMS/OBJECTIVES: This in vitro study was designed to measure and compare the temperature rise in the pulp chamber with different light curing units. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study was done in two settings-in-vitro and in-vivo simulation. In in-vitro setting, 3mm and 6mm acrylic spacers with 4mm tip diameter thermocouple was used and six groups were formed according to the light curing source- 3 Quartz-Tungsten-Halogen (QTH) units and 3 Light-Emitting-Diode (LED) units. For the LED units, three modes of curing like pulse-cure mode, fast mode and ramp mode were used. For in-vivo simulation, 12 caries free human third molar tooth with fused root were used. K-type thermocouple with 1 mm tip diameter was used. Occlusal cavity was prepared, etched, rinsed with water and blot dried; bonding agent was applied and incremental curing of composite was done. Thermal emission for each light curing agent was noted. RESULTS: Temperature rise was very minimal in LED light cure units than in QTH light cure units in both the settings. Temperature rise was minimal at 6mm distance when compared to 3 mm distance. Among the various modes, fast mode produces the less temperature rise. Temperature rise in all the light curing units was well within the normal range of pulpal physiology. CONCLUSION: Temperature rise caused due to light curing units does not result in irreversible pulpal damage.

Antifungal efficacy of 5.25% sodium hypochlorite, 2% chlorhexidine gluconate, and 17% EDTA with and without an antifungal agent.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the efficacy of 5.25% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), 2% chlorhexidine gluconate (CHX), and 17% EDTA as a final irrigant with and without the inclusion of an antifungal agent (1% clotrimazole) on Candida albicans. METHODS: Sixty-five single-rooted instrumented and inoculated with a suspension of C. albicans. The experimental specimens were divided into two groups. The irrigant group was divided into three subgroups and irrigated with 5.25% NaOCl, 2% CHX, and 17% EDTA, respectively. The irrigant with antifungal group was divided into three subgroups and irrigated with 5.25% NaOCl, 2% CHX, and 17% EDTA respectively followed by 1% clotrimazole. Aliquots from the experimental teeth were plated on 4% Sabouraud agar (Tital Biotech, Delhi, India), and the colony-forming units (CFUs) were evaluated under light microscopy (400x). RESULTS: NaOCl, 5.25%, exhibited superior antifungal efficacy compared with 2% CHX and 17% EDTA (p < 0.001). On inclusion of 1% clotrimazole, there was a significant decrease in the CFU (p < 0.001); 5.25% NaOCl and 2% CHX with clotrimazole showed significantly greater antifungal properties than 17% EDTA with clotrimazole (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: One percent of clotrimazole proved to be effective against C. albicans when used along with root canal irrigants as a final rinse.

Remineralization of early enamel lesions using casein phosphopeptide amorphous calcium Phosphate: an ex-vivo study.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed at qualitatively evaluating the remineralization potential of casein phosphopeptide amorphous calcium phosphate on artificial early enamel lesions in an ex-vivo scenario by observing the treated tooth surface using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). MATERIALS AND METHODS: This randomized study was conducted on 10 subjects undergoing orthodontic treatment with premolar extraction as part of their treatment. Artificial white lesions were created with the application of 37% phosphoric acid for 20 mins. Teeth were then divided into two groups: one experimental and the other control. Customised orthodontic band with a window was luted with intermediate restorative material in the experimental group whereas in the control group, band without a window was luted. The casein phosphopeptide amorphous calcium phosphate (GC TOOTH MOUSSE) paste was then applied on the window region of the experimental group for 3 mins thrice daily after meals for 14 days, whereas no paste was applied in the control group. After 14 days, teeth were extracted and viewed under an SEM. RESULTS: The study groups showed remineralization of the lesions as compared with the control group in most of the samples. CONCLUSION: Casein phophopeptide could significantly remineralize the artificial enamel lesions in vivo.

Comparative evaluation of the surface tension and the pH of calcium hydroxide mixed with five different vehicles: an in vitro study.

AIM: The aim of this study was to evaluate the surface tension and pH of five different vehicles that are used as potential agents to mix calcium hydroxide in root canal treatments and to compare them with the final surface tension and pH of calcium hydroxide mixed with these vehicles. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study was carried out in two phases. In Phase I, the surface tension and pH of five vehicles (distilled water, saline, anesthetic solution, chlorhexidine, and glycerin) were evaluated using a Du Nuoy Tensiometer and a pH Meter. In Phase II, a predetermined amount of calcium hydroxide was mixed with the individual vehicles and the surface tension and pH was determined. In each group, seven samples were evaluated. RESULTS: Among the individual vehicles, chlorhexidine had the least surface tension values (39.8+1.1 dynes/cm). Among the various calcium hydroxide mixtures, calcium hydroxide with chlorhexidine showed the least surface tension values (36.4+1.1 dynes/cm). All the vehicles showed an acidic pH ranging from 5 to 6.5. There was a significant increase in the pH values with the addition of calcium hydroxide to the respective vehicles. The calcium hydroxide mixtures had an alkaline pH ranging from 9 to 11.5; the highest pH was observed for calcium hydroxide mixed with distilled water and saline (11.5+0.2). CONCLUSION: The surface tension and pH of the vehicles directly influenced the surface tension and pH of the calcium hydroxide mixtures. Chlorhexidine was found to be a better vehicle for calcium hydroxide when used as an intracanal medicament.

Endodontic management of a fused maxillary lateral incisor with a supernumerary tooth: a case report.

Fusion is a rare occurrence and its definitive diagnosis is of prime importance for successful root canal treatment. This case report discusses the endodontic and esthetic management of fused maxillary lateral incisor with a supernumerary tooth that presented with spacing between the fused tooth and the adjacent central incisor. Nonsurgical endodontic treatment was performed on the fused teeth followed by postendodontic esthetic restoration. The patient remained symptom-free and there was a reduction in the size of periapical radiolucency after 1 year.

Anatomical variations of mandibular premolars in Chennai population.

AIM: To analyse the prevalence of anatomical variations of mandibular premolars in Chennai population. METHODOLOGY: It was observed, during the routine treatment of mandibular premolars that aberrations were becoming common. This necessitated an encompassing study on 500 patients, evaluating the occurrence of these aberrations. The parameters of this study included sex predilection, unilateral/ bilateral occurrences, and comparison of the incidence of anatomical variations in mandibular first and second premolar canal configuration. The study pattern was designed to observe these premolars using Radiovisiography (RVG) in different angulations to highlight the anatomical aberrations. The results were subjected to statistical analysis, which were performed using SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Science) statistical program version 10.0.5. Descriptive statistics were computed for all the variables. RESULT: The present study revealed high incidence of anatomical aberrations in mandibular premolars among Chennai population. Out of the 500 patients studied, 123 patients [24.6%] showed anatomical variance in the canal configuration. There was high incidence of Vertucci's Type IV canal configuration as compared to Type V, Type II and Type VIII in the descending order of occurrence. CONCLUSION: Within the limitations of this in-vivo study, it was inferred that the incidence of aberrations in the canal configuration of mandibular premolars is common and due considerations are to be given during endodontic intervention.

Estimation of variance components based on diallel model.

The problem of estimation of variance components based on diallel model for unbalanced data has been addressed. The least squares approach to quadratic estimation has been adopted in obtaining the explicit solutions for the design and genetic components of variance.

Hypocholesterolemic efficacy of garlic-smelling flower Adenocalymma alliaceum Miers. in experimental rats.

Dried flower of A. alliaceum when fed at 2% level in diet for 6 weeks to experimental rats rendered hypercholesterolemic by cholesterol feeding, exhibited blood cholesterol lowering effect. Cholesterol lowering efficacy of these garlic smelling flowers was similar to garlic oil fed at 0.002% level. Animals fed A. alliaceum flowers excreted higher amounts of neutral and acidic sterols in faeces similar to onion or asafoetida fed (at 2% dietary level) rats. A. alliaceum significantly lowered the absorption of dietary cholesterol from intestine like other sulfur containing spices, viz. garlic oil, onion and asafoetida. It is inferred from this study that limitation in intestinal cholesterol absorption is responsible for cholesterol lowering effect of this flower in hypercholesterolemic animals.