043089   ZHANG N, PENG F, WANG Y, YANG L, WU F, WANG X, YE C, HAN B, HE G (Chengdu Univ of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China, Email: hanbo@cdutcm.edu.cn) : Shikonin induces colorectal carcinoma cells apoptosis and autophagy by targeting galectin-1/JNK signaling axis. Int J Biol Sci 2020, 16(1), 147-61.

Colorectal carcinoma (CRC) is the third most common malignant tumor pathology worldwide. Despite progress in surgical procedures and therapy options, CRC is still a considerable cause of cancer-related mortality. In this study, we tested the antitumor effects of shikonin in CRC and tried to identify its potential mechanism. The potential target, molecular mechanism as well as in vitro and in vivo antitumor effects of shikonin in CRC cells were determined by an integrative protocol including quantitative proteomics, RT-PCR, western blotting, RNA interference and overexpression, apoptosis and autophagy assays, etc. Galectin-1 was a potential target of shikonin from the iTRAQ-based proteomic analysis in shikonin-treated SW620 cell. The overexpression and RNA silencing of galectin-1 in two CRC cells suggested that the shikonin sensitivity was correlation to galectin-1 levels. The ROS accumulation induced by shikonin was important to the formation of galectin-1 dimers. Dimer galectin-1 was found to be associated with the activation of JNK and downstream apoptosis or autophagy. Moreover, through functional in vitro studies, we showed that differences in galectin-1 level affected tumor cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. In summary, shikonin induced CRC cells apoptosis and autophagy by targeting galectin-1 and JNK signaling pathway both in vitro and in vivo, which suggested a potential novel therapy target for CRC.

9 illus, 73 ref

041251   TOMAR U, AIREN B, SARKAR P A, SINGH H, BISHEN K A (Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology Dep, Malwanchal Univ, Indore - 452 016, Madhya Pradesh, Email: kundenduarya@gmail.com) : A vigilance alert for forensic odontology: Preservation and maintenance of dental records in central India. Indian J Dent Sci 2020, 12(1), 16-20.

One of the most encouraging facts about forensic odontology is that it is looked upon today as a reliable methodology which is highly accurate when maintained correctly. Dental tissues are the strongest in the human body. They remain unchanged even after the long period of exposure to extreme conditions. In the field of criminal investigation and medicolegal cases, dental practitioners play a pivotal role. The maintenance of dental records is legally important in most of the European and American countries. Unfortunately, the law is not very clear in India and the awareness is very poor. A cross‑sectional study was conducted in which a questionnaire was designed for the participating dentists to self‑assess their awareness regarding forensic odontology and forensic value of the dental records maintained in routine practice. The Chi‑square test was used for evaluating the results statistically, and the level of significance was set at 0.05. Our study revealed that the dental practitioners of Madhya Pradesh, India, are not adequately prepared for any kind of forensic and medicolegal need if it arises at all. Our study reveals that there is an alarming call for rectification and improvisation in forensic odontology awareness among the practitioners.

1 table, 20 ref

041249   BALAMURALI N, THOWBIECK N S M, AMREEN S S, CHANDRASEKARAN D, KARTHIKEYAN K, SHERWOOD I A (Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics Dep, CSI Coll of Dental Sciences and Research, Madurai, Tamil Nadu, Email: anand.sherwood@gmail.com) : Prevalence and perception of dental fluorosis among the school going children and its impact on academic performance. Indian J Dent Sci 2020, 12(1), 1-6.

The prevalence of dental fluorosis in Southern India has been reported to be on higher side. In Madurai district, Tamil Nadu, the dental fluorosis incidence among 13–15‑year‑old school children was observed at 87.7%. The aim of the present investigation is to analyze the prevalence of dental fluorosis among 12–14‑year‑old school‑going children and understand its impact on their academic performance. A total 693 students from four different schools were screened for dental fluorosis and severity using Thylstrup–Fejerskov index. Students’ academic performance, class attendance, awareness about the condition, esthetic perception about dental fluorosis, and friends’ attitude toward their teeth were evaluated. Nonparametric Mann–Whitney U and Kruskal–Wallis tests were employed to assess the influence of dental fluorosis presence on the academic performance. Four hundred and thirteen (59.6%) students had dental fluorosis, and the mean number of teeth affected was 4.15 ± 1.70. Significantly (P < 0.05), marks obtained in each subject, average total marks scored in the last examination, and class attendance percentage were lower in individuals with dental fluorosis. School performance getting significantly affected by the presence of dental fluorosis needs to be further investigated in a controlled environment. Brown stains in dental fluorosis were considered to be of esthetic concern than white opacities among the children.

2 illus, 5 tables, 13 ref

045000   GURUARIBAM V D, SARUMATHI T (Oral Medicine Diagnosis and Radiology Dep, Sree Balaji Dental Coll and Hospital, Chennai? 600 100, Tamil Nadu, Email: drcharumathi @gmail.com) : Relevance of serum and salivary sialic acid in oral cancer diagnostics. J Can Res Ther 2020, 16(2), 401-4.

To review the relevance of sialic acid as a tumour marker in oral cancer. Tumour marker are useful in the screening for early malignancy. Sialic acids are important in determining the surface properties of cells and has been implicated in cellular invasiveness, adhesiveness, and immunogenicity. Sialic acids are commonly found at the outermost end of glycan chains of all cell types. Increase in the levels of sialic acid in oral cancer indicates its importance as a tumour marker.Both serum and salivary sialic acid levels can be used as a screening tool and a diagnostic aid for oral cancer. Salivary sialic acid can be used as a non-invasive, cost effective and reliable diagnostic methods for screening and monitoring of oral cancer. In patients with oral cancer, glycoprotein metabolism is altered. Increase in the levels of sialic acid in oral cancer indicate its importance as a tumour marker. Changes in the serum is reflected in saliva. Salivary sialic acid can be used as non-invasive, cost effective and reliable diagnostic methods for screening and monitoring of oral cancer. Early the diagnosis, better the prognosis.

25 ref

043088   LIANG S, MAP Y, LIAO M, XU Y, CHEN Y, HUANG X, WEI C, WU C, WAN Q, PAN X, et al. (Guangxi Medical Univ Affiliated Tumor Hospital, Nanning, Guangxi, 530021, China, Email: qiuyanwang510@yahoo.com) : Gut microbiome associated with APC gene mutation in patients with intestinal adenomatous polyps. Int J Biol Sci 2020, 16(1), 135-46.

The ‘adenoma-carcinoma sequence’ is a well-recognized model of colorectal cancer (CRC) development. However, the interaction between gut microbiota and genetic variation in the initiation of CRC is not clear. Our study attempts to demonstrate the relationship between gut microbiota and host genetics in patients with intestinal adenomatous polyps. The entire exon region of the APC gene was sequenced in 35 patients with pathologically diagnosed adenomatous polyps. Patients with highly pathogenic APC mutation were classified as the case group, while the others were classified as the control group. The patients’stool and serum samples were respectively collected for metagenomics and metabolomics measurements. In the analysis of gut microbiome, there were three most important species, in which Fusobacterium_mortiferum was significantly increased while Faecalibacterium_prausnitzii and Bifidobacterium_pseudocatenulatum were significantly decreased in the case group. The significantly low abundance of the Photosynthesis pathway in patients with APC mutation was due to the low abundance of species Faecalibacterium_prausnitzii and Bifidobacterium_ pseudocatenulatum. Moreover, there were two clusters of KEGG pathways correlated with two clusters of species characterized by Faecalibacterium_prausnitzii and Fusobacterium_mortiferum. As to serum metabolomics, the abundance of (R)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid and 2-Hydroxyphenethylamine were significantly higher in patients with APC mutation, while the abundance of 1-Aminocyclopropanecarboxylic acid,7-Ketocholesterol, DL-lactate, and L-Pyroglutamic acid were significantly higher in controlgroup. After analyzing the metabolome and microbiome data by sparCCmethod, we found that there was a significantly negative correlation between the abundance of Faecalibacterium_prausnitzii and Fusobacterium_mortiferum, and a significantly positive correlation between Faecalibacterium_prausnitzii abundance and the steroid hormone Hydrocortisone (Cortisol) in serum. Host’s APC mutation was closely related to the changes of gut microbiota and serum metabolites, and some species of gut microbiome like Faecalibacterium_prausnitzii and Fusobacterium_mortiferum might have the potential to predict the development of CRC from intestinal adenomatous polyps.

4 illus, 1 table, 57 ref

044999   CUI R, YU J, KUANG M, DUAN F, LIANG P (Interventional Ultrasound Dep, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing- 100 853, China, Email: liangping301@hotmail. com) : Microwave ablation versus other interventions for hepatocellular carcinoma: A systematic review and meta‑analysis. J Can Res Ther 2020, 16(2), 379-86.

We aim to evaluate the efficacy and safety of microwave ablation (MWA) versus other treatment modalities for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This study was registered in Prospero (registration number CRD42017057046). A complete electronic search was conducted for studies on MWA versus other interventions for HCC using PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library databases, and ISI Web of Science. Randomized and non‑randomized clinical trials were included. Data on technical efficacy, local tumor progression (LTP), overall survival (OS), progression‑free survival (PFS), and major complications were extracted from included studies and combined to be analyzed via random effects models. OS was set as the primary outcome measure. Fifteen clinical studies were identified. When comparing MWA with radiofrequency ablation (RFA), no significant difference was found in 3‑year OS rates (odds ratio [OR] 0.94, 95 % confidence interval [CI] 0.66–1.34, P = 0.74), 5‑year OS rates (OR 0.83, 95 % CI 0.58–1.18, P = 0.29), 3‑year PFS rates (OR 1.05, 95 % CI 0.77–1.43, P = 0.74), 1‑year LTP rate (OR 1.28, 95 % CI 0.52–3.18, P = 0.59), technical efficacy rate (OR 1. 35, 95 % CI 0. 85–2.15, P = 0.20), and major complication rate (OR 1.04, 95 % CI 0.56–1.93,P = 0.90). When comparing MWA with hepatic resection, the 3‑year OS rate was not significantly different (OR 0.89, 95% CI 0.59–1.35, P = 0.59). Compared with RFA and hepatic resection, MWA showed similar safety and efficacy for HCC, especially in OS rate and PFS. However, high‑quality clinical trials are needed to validate the superiority of MWA.

6 illus, 1 table, 46 ref

043087   PARK S-A, KIM L K, KIM Y T, HEO T-H, KIM H J (The Catholic Univ of Korea, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea, Email: hjk0114@hanmail.net) : Long non-coding RNA steroid receptor activator promotes the progression of endometrial cancer via Wnt/ β-catenin signaling pathway. Int J Biol Sci 2020, 16(1), 99-115.

Steroid receptor activator (SRA), a long non-coding RNA, serves as a critical regulator of gynecologic cancer. The objective of this study was to determine biological function and clinical significance of SRA expression in endometrial cancer. We investigated whether SRA was involved in the development of endometrial cancer via binding to eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E-binding protein 1 (EIF4E-BP1) as a transcription factor to enhance Wnt/ β-catenin signaling pathway. Expression levels of SRA were upregulated in endometrial cancer tissues compared to those in adjacent control tissues. We also found high expression of SRA in EC cells. The relationship between SRA and EIF4E-BP1 was corroborated by transfection of a luciferase reporter plasmid. In addition, SRA knockdown inhibited the expression of EIF4E-BP1 known to play a critical role in the control of protein synthesis, cell growth, and cell survival, thus promoting tumourigenesis and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) important for cell motility and metastasis. Consistently, immunostaining and western blotting analysis showed that expression levels of β-catenin and 4EBP1 in the nucleus were significantly decreased by SRA knockdown but increased by SRA over-expression. These results suggest that SRA is involved in proliferation, migration, and invasion of endometrial cancer cells by increasing the expression of EIF4E-BP1 and activity of Wnt/ β-catenin signaling. These findings indicate that SRA might be a novel biomarker for predicting recurrence and prognosis. It might also serve as a promising therapeutic target in endometrial cancer.

7 illus, 1 table, 35 ref

041248   SHANKAR P, VENKATESAN R, SENTHIL D, TROPHIMUS J, ARTHILAKSHMI C U, PRINCY P (Paedodontics and Preventive Dentistry Dep, Dental Coll and Hospital, Chennai - 600 089, Tamil Nadu, Email: pedoshankar@gmail.com) : microleakage patterns of glass ionomer cement at cement-band and cement-enamel interfaces in primary teeth. Indian J Dent Res 2020, 31(2), 291-6.

In‑vitro studies of microleakage are an initial screening method to assess the maximum theoretical loss of sealing ability in‑vivo. Our objective was to determine and compare microleakage patterns of conventional glass ionomer cement (GIC) and resin‑modified GIC (RMGIC) for band cementation. Forty caries‑free second primary molars were randomly divided into two groups of 20 teeth each. Preformed molar bands in the two groups were cemented to enamel with one of two types of cement: Conventional GIC (Fuji I, GC Corporation; Tokyo, Japan) and RMGIC (Fuji Plus, GC Corporation; Tokyo, Japan). A dye penetration method was used for microleakage evaluation. Microleakage was determined by a stereomicroscope for the cement‑band and cement‑enamel interfaces. Statistical analysis was performed with Kruskal‑Wallis and Mann‑Whitney U tests. The mean microleakage value for conventional GIC (Fuji I) at cement‑band and cement‑enamel interfaces was 2.41 mm and 2.15 mm, respectively. The mean microleakage value for RMGIC (Fuji Plus) at cement‑band and cement‑enamel interfaces was 0.44 mm and 0.46 mm, respectively. Compared to conventional GIC, RMGIC showed less microleakage at both cement‑band and cement‑enamel interfaces. P < 0.001 and it was statistically highly significant. Bands cemented with RMGIC had significantly less microleakage between the cement‑band and cement‑enamel interfaces than conventional GIC.

2 illus, 4 tables, 34 ref

043086   LIU W, WANG K, LV X, WANG Q, LI X, YANG Z, LIU X, YAN L, FU X, XIAO R (Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical Coll, 33 Ba-Da-Chu Road, Beijing, 100144, People’s Republic of China, Email: xiaoran@psh.pumc.edu.cn) : Up-regulation of RNA binding proteins contributes to folate deficiency-induced neural crest cells dysfunction. Int J Biol Sci 2020, 16(1), 85-98.

Folate deficiency has long been associated with the abnormal development of the neural crest cells (NCCs) and neural tube defects (NTDs). RNA binding proteins (RBPs) also play important roles in the normal neural crest development and neural tube formation. Nevertheless, the causative mechanism by which folate status influences human NCCs development and the RBPs functions remains unknown. In this study, we differentiated H9 human embryonic stem cells into neural crest cells (H9-NCCs) and then constructed three folic acid (FA) deficiency (FAD) H9-NCCs models in vitro. Decreased viability, impaired migration and promoted apoptosis of H9-NCCs were observed in three FAD H9-NCCs models. In addition, we showed that three RBPs, namely, hnRNPC, LARP6 and RCAN2, were up-regulated both in the FAD H9-NCC models in vitro and in the FAD mouse model in vivo. Knocking down of these three RBPs increased the H9-NCC viability and RCAN2 knockdown further promoted H9-NCC migration under FAD conditions. In normal culture condition, overexpression of RCAN2 and HnRNPC did not affect viabilities and migration of H9-NCCs while overexpression of LARP6 reduced the H9-NCC viability. Our findings demonstrate important regulatory effects of RBPs underlying FAD-induced impaired function of NCCs.

5 illus, 2 tables, 68 ref

043085   LI B, ZHOU P, XU K, CHEN T, JIAO J, WEI H, XANG X, XU W, WAN W, XIAO J (Orthopedic Oncology Dep, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical Univ, 415 Fengyang Road, Shanghai 200003, China) : Metformin induces cell cycle arrest, apoptosis and autophagy through ROS/JNK signaling pathway in human osteosarcoma. Int J Biol Sci 2020, 16(1), 74-84.

Metformin, an ancient drug commonly used for treating type II diabetes, has been associated to anti-cancer capacity in a variety of developing cancers, though the mechanism remains elusive. Here, we aimed to examine the inhibitory effect of metformin in osteosarcoma. Herein, we demonstrated that metformin treatment blocked proliferation progression by causing accumulation of G2/M phase in U2OS and 143B cells. Furthermore, metformin treatment triggered programmed cell death process in osteosarcoma cell lines. Further research indicated the induction of apoptosis and autophagy triggered by metformin could remarkably attenuate after the treatment of ROS scavenger NAC and JNK inhibitor SP600125. Additionally, our results showed that NAC-suppressed JNK/c-Jun signaling pathway could have been activated through metformin treatment. Lastly, metformin could inhibit osteosarcoma growth under safe dose in vivo. Thus, we propose that metformin could induce cell cycle arrest as well as programmed cell death, including apoptosis and autophagy, through ROS-dependent JNK/c-Jun cascade in human osteosarcoma. This metformin-induced pathway provides further insights into its antitumor potential molecular mechanism and illuminates potential cancer targets for osteosarcoma.

6 illus, 50 ref

044998   MAI Q, MO Z, HE J, CHEN M, GOU Q, SHI F, CHEN X (Interventional Oncology Dep, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou- 510 060, China, Email: cjr. chenxiaoming@ vip.163.com) : Feasibility and clinical value of computed tomography‑guided ¹²⁵I brachytherapy for pain palliation in patients with retroperitoneal lymph node metastases. J Can Res Ther 2020, 16(2), 372-8.

The aim was to evaluate the feasibility and clinical value of computed tomography (CT)‑guided 125I brachytherapy for pain palliation in patients with retroperitoneal lymph node metastases. A total of 23 patients with retroperitoneal lymph node metastases and those who had moderate‑to‑severe pain from January 2014 to December 2018 were enrolled in the study. The primary tumors included pancreatic (n = 12), gastric (n = 4), hepatocellular (n = 4), colorectal (n = 2), and esophageal carcinomas (n = 1). Patients were treated with CT‑guided percutaneous 125I brachytherapy during the study. The Brief Pain Inventory‑Short Form was used to record and compare pain intensity and interference by pain. Treatment‑related complications were also evaluated according to the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group/European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Late Radiation Morbidity Scoring Criteria. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software version 22.0 The primary success rate of 125I seed implantation was 95.7 % (22 of the 23 patients). As pain evolved, the patients achieved obvious pain palliation ratings for “worst pain” and “average pain” at 72 h and 4 weeks after brachytherapy, respectively, whereas “pain right now” at 12 weeks was significantly relieved after brachytherapy. No serious complications developed during the perioperative period.  In the treatment of intractable carcinomatous pain in patients with retroperitoneal lymph node metastases, CT‑guided 125I brachytherapy is a feasible and effective modality for pain palliation.

3 illus, 5 tables, 18 ref

044997   XU C, TANG Y, ZHAO Y, LI Y, FENG Q (Ultrasound Dep, The Tumor Hospital of Liaocheng, Shandong- 252 000, China, Email: ziaap 0810@126.com) : Use of contrast‑enhanced ultrasound in evaluating the efficacy and application value of microwave ablation for adenomyosis. J Can Res Ther 2020, 16(2), 365-71.

This study aims to assess the use of contrast‑enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS) and dynamic contrast‑enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE‑MRI) in the evaluation of percutaneous microwave ablation (PMWA) of localized adenomyosis. Sixty‑six patients with single‑onset adenomyosis who underwent PMWA at the Liaocheng Tumor Hospital of Shandong Province from January 2013 to February 2019 were enrolled. Venous CEUS and DCE‑MRI examinations were performed before and 1–2 days after the surgery. The ablation rates calculated by CEUS and DCE‑MRI were compared and analyzed for accuracy. After microwave ablation (MWA), CEUS showed that the volume and ablation rate of the ablated zone were 52.03 ± 28.39 cm3 and 90.90 % ±6.61 %, respectively. By DCE‑MRI, the ablation volume and ablation rate of adenomyosis were 52.20 ± 28.65 cm3 and 90.88 % ±6.32 %, respectively. Dysmenorrhea was significantly relieved within 3 months of the operation, and nonmenstrual hemoglobin levels were significantly improved at 3 and 6 months after the operation (P < 0.05). All 66 cases of adenomyosis were treated using PMWA. Postoperatively, 17 patients reported a change in vaginal fluid; however, no special treatment was required as this disappeared 2–11 days after surgery. CEUS can accurately evaluate the ablation rate of localized adenomyosis treated with MWA, which is consistent with DCE‑MRI. It is convenient and easy to perform ablation of adenomyomas, with incomplete ablation and angiography, and is a method worthy of clinical promotion.

7 illus, 1 table, 32 ref

043084   LI X, SDIRI M, PENG J, XIE Y, YANG B B (Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto M4N 3M5 Canada, Email: byang@sri.utoronto.ca) : Identification and characterization of chemical components in the bioactive fractions of Cynomorium coccineum that possess anticancer activity. Int J Biol Sci 2020, 16(1), 61-73.

Cynomorium coccineum has long been used as the health and medicinal plant known to induce cancer cell death. However, the bioactive compounds of C. coccineum and the underlying mechanism of their regulator in cell autophagy and cell apoptosis remain unexplored. In our previous study, we found that the ethanol extract had antitumor activity through inducing cancer cell death. In this study, by detecting the anti-tumor effect of sequence extracts from Cynomorium coccineum, the active constituents were collected in solvent ethyl acetate. A strategy based on ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with hybrid quadrupole-orbitrap mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-Orbitrap/MS) was first utilized to analyze the chemical constituents of active fraction (ethyl acetate fraction, CS3). A total of 29 compounds including 8 triterpenoids, 6 flavonoids, 4 fatty acids, 8 phenolic acids, 1 anthraquinones, 1 nucleoside and 1 sterol were detected and identified or tentatively identified for the first time in Cynomorium coccineum. We found that CS3 induces cancer cell death accompanied with a great number of vacuoles in the cytoplasm. CS3-induced autophagosome formation was found and confirmed by electron microscopy and the high expression levels of microtubule-associated protein-1 light chain 3-II (LC3II), a marker protein of autophagy. We additionally demonstrated that CS3 activated and increased the pro-apoptotic mitochondrial proteins, BNIP3 and BNIP3L, in mRNA and protein levels. The constituents of CS3 down-regulated anti-apoptotic BCL2, and then releases autophagic protein Beclin-1. These finding for the first time systematically not only explore and identify the active constituents of CS3 in Cynomorium coccineum, but also examined the mechanism associated with CS3-induced cell death via cell autophagy. This active component may serve as a potential source to obtain new autophagy inducer and anti-cancer compounds for hepatocellular carcinoma.

7 illus, 1 table, 40 ref

041245   DILIPKUMAR D, RAJ D S, DAYALAN D, SURESH P, SUGAPRIYA R (Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics Dep, SRM Kattankulathur Dental Coll and Hospital, Chennai, Tamil Nadu - 603 203, Email: dhiv2000@yahoo.com) : Quadrilateral analysis applied to a city population with anterior openbite. Indian J Dent Res 2020, 31(2), 263-76.

To apply the quadrilateral analysis to adult male and female Chennai population with normal occlusion, (2) To compare the results to Chennai adult male and female with anterior openbite, (3) To evaluate the correlation of the quadrilateral variables and (4) To establish additional parameters to determine an openbite tendency. The study was carried out from the values taken from 120 pretreatment lateral cephalograms of the selected Chennai population and divided into two groups. Group A consists of 60 lateral cephalograms of 30 male and 30 female patients with balanced anteroposterior and vertical facial proportion and normal overjet and overbite relationship. Group B consists of 60 lateral cephalograms of 30 male and 30 female patients with anterior openbite and comparision done with 2 groups. Results in normal subjects the lower facial heights are equal. In anterior openbite subjects. The facial heights. The sagittal angle. The maxillary and mandibular sagittal ratios. Lower facial height and sagittal ratio is larger than normal. Statistical analysis performed with Version 23(SPSS) and Student's t test were done to describe the mean and standard deviation. To assess the relationship pearson correlation was used.The probability value of 0.05 is consdered as significant. The malformation of the craniofacial structure in anterior openbite subjects resides in the maxillomandibular complex. The overbite depth indicator, the sagittal angle, the maxillary, and mandibular sagittal ratio can be additional parameters in determining an openbite tendency.

5 illus, 3 tables, 51 ref

043083   LONG M-H, ZHU X-M, WANG Q, CHEN Y, GAN X-D, LI F, FU W-L, XING W W, XU D-Q, XU D-G (Institute of Military Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Beijing, 100850, China, Email: xudg@bmi.ac.cn) : PM2.5 exposure induces vascular dysfunction via NO generated by iNOS in lung of ApoE-/- mouse. Int J Biol Sci 2020, 16(1), 49-60.

PM2.5 exposure exacerbates cardiovascular diseases via oxidative stress and inflammation, the detailed mechanism of which is unclear. In this study, the effects of oxidative stress and inflammation, as well as vascular structure and function were studied by multiple PM2.5 exposure model of ApoE-/- mice. The results indicated that NO produced by iNOS not cNOS might play important roles in inducing vascular dysfunction after PM2.5 exposure. The occurrence order and causality among NO, other oxidative stress indicators and inflammation is explored by single PM2.5 exposure. The results showed that NO generated by iNOS occurred earlier than that of other oxidative stress indicators, which was followed by the increased inflammation. Inhibition of NOS could effectively block the raise of NO, oxidative stress and inflammation after PM2.5 exposure. All in all, we firstly confirmed that NO was the initiation factor of PM2.5 exposure-induced oxidative stress, which led to inflammation and the following vascular dysfunction.

8 illus, 3 tables, 42 ref

041244   YESURATNAM D, BALASUBRAMANYAM S, NAGASUJATHA D, VEDATRAYI T, RANI B U, PASUPULETI A (Maxillofacial Surgery Dep, Govt Dental Coll and Hospital, Kadapa, Andhra Pradesh - 516 001, Email: anithapasupuleti72@gmail.com) : Acknowledgement of horizon of oral and maxillofacial surgery by health care professionals and general population. Indian J Dent Res 2020, 31(2), 257-62.

Oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMFS) is a dental specialty evolving from the anatomical region of head and neck. Differing from the belief, its scope does not start and end with teeth. The aim of the study was to survey the perception of OMFS among dental, medical, and paramedical professionals. A structured questionnaire cross‑sectional survey made up of 17 clinical situations pertaining to various complaints of patients was distributed among 50 medical and dental undergraduates, 50 medical and dental practitioners, and 50 general populations with a total number of 250 samples who were selected randomly. The collected data was tabulated using Microsoft excel for any predictable patterns. The results were analyzed taking absolute percentages of the responses into consideration. The results were compiled and tabulated and the data analyzed. While wisdom tooth removal, trauma, and facial bone fractures were recognized to be mainly treated by maxillofacial surgeons, the other maxillofacial problems were poorly recognized to be treated by our specialty. In our study, 67.3 % of general public and 62.4 % of medical professionals approached other medical specialist for the clinical conditions. The Chi‑square results of few clinical situations were statistically significant with a P value of less than 0.05, which suggest that there is indeed a statistically significant difference between the responses of medical profession and the public on whom to approach regarding certain clinical cases. The study revealed that the majority of the public are lacking in knowledge about the benefits that the specialty can offer. It has been found that even though the Medical professionals are better informed, lacunae existed about information as to where our major activity lies. If patients are to have access to the best treatment available, it is essential that we edify the public about the scope of our specialty.

1 illus, 2 tables, 10 ref

044996   CAO Y, REN Y, MA H, ZHOU C, LIU J, SHI Q, FENG G, ZHENG C, XIONG B (Radiology Dep, Huazhong Univ of Science and Technology, Hubei- 430 022, China, Email: herr_ xiong@126.com) : Classification of hepatocellular carcinoma diameter by statistical technology and prognostic evaluation in patients after the combined use of transarterial chemoembolization and radiofrequency ablation. J Can Res Ther 2020, 16(2), 356-64.

This study aimed to classify hepatocellular carcinomas(HCCs) according to their diameter using statistic technology and evaluate the prognosis of the classified groups after the combined use of transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) and radiofrequency ablation (RFA). Electronic medical records of 128 consecutive patients who underwent TACE‑RFA as the initial treatment for HCC from January 2010 to April 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. TACE was initially performed with subsequent RFA performed after 3–7 days. The decision tree model was used to classify overall survival (OS), progression‑free survival (PFS), local recurrence rate (LRR), and treatment complications in HCC. The tumors were divided into three groups of sizes ≤2.9 cm, 2.9–4.8 cm, and >4.8 cm. The group of tumors >4.8 cm showed inferior OS, PFS, and LRR than the other two groups(P < 0.05) on long‑term follow‑up but not in the first 6 months(P > 0.05). The groups of tumors ≤2.9 cm and 2.9–4.8 cm showed no statistically significant difference in OS, PFS, and LRR (P > 0.05). The cutoff points of 2.9 and 4.8 cm were achieved using the objective decision tree model rather than the artificial division of 3 and 5 cm. The prognosis was not significantly different between the groups of tumors ≤2.9 cm and 2.9–4.8 cm, and the prognosis of the two groups was better than the group of tumors >4.8 cm in the long‑term follow‑up but not in the first 6 months.

6 illus, 6 tables, 44 ref

041243   WASTI A, WASTI J, SINGH R (Periodontology Dep, New Horizon Dental Coll and Research Institute, Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh - 495 001, Email: ritunja21@gmail.com) : Estimation of salivary calcium level as a screening tool for the osteoporosis in the post-menopausal women: A prospective study. Indian J Dent Res 2020, 31(2), 252-6.

The aim and objective of the present study was to explore the use of salivary calcium levels as a diagnostic biochemical marker for osteoporosis in menopausal women and also to find the correlation among oestrogen level, bone density and salivary calcium level. The study included 180 individuals and they were divided into three groups with 60 individuals in each group, comprised of healthy women, pregnant women and post‑menopausal women. All the women were asked to collect at least 2 ml of unstimulated whole saliva in the sterile plastic sample containers. The samples were immediately subjected to biochemical estimation of calcium. Similarly, estimation was done for oestrogen level and bone density among all the groups. The results were obtained by one‑way analysis of variance (ANOVA) using Statistical Software SPSS version 17. For the correlation among the bone density, salivary calcium level and serum oestrogen levels, Pearson’s correlation was used. The mean salivary calcium level in the healthy women group was found to be 3.0 ± 0.50 µg/ml. Similarly, pregnant women and post‑menopausal group, it was found to be 3.20 ± 0.72 and 7.5 ± 0.90 µg/ml, respectively. When the intergroup comparison was done in the three groups, it was found to be highly significant (P = 0.001). Similarly, the difference in mean value for oestrogen level and bone density was highly significant among all the groups (P = 0.001). Among all the three groups, the salivary calcium levels do exhibit the correlation with bone mineral density. In the post‑menopausal group, there was significant increase in salivary calcium level compared to other groups. Similarly, the study showed a negative correlation between salivary calcium and serum oestrogen. This substantiates the point that salivary calcium levels can definitely indicate the possibility of the presence or absence of osteoporosis in post‑menopausal women.

5 tables, 21 ref

043082   XIE S, DENG W, CHEN J, WU Q-Q, LI H, WANG J, WEI L, LIU C, DUAN M, CAI Z, et al. (Cardiology Dep, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan Univ, Jiefang Road 238, Wuhan 430060, P.R. of China, Email: vivideng1982@whu.edu.cn) : Andrographolide protects against adverse cardiac remodeling after myocardial infarction through enhancing Nrf2 signaling pathway. Int J Biol Sci 2020, 16(1), 12-26.

Adverse cardiac remodeling after myocardial infarction (MI) is associated with extremely high mortality rates worldwide. Although optimized medical therapy, Preservation of lusitropic and inotropic function and protection against adverse remodeling in ventricular structure remain relatively frequent. This study demonstrated that Andrographolide (Andr) significantly ameliorated adverse cardiac remodeling induced by myocardial infarction and improves contractile function in mice with LAD ligation compared with the control group. Briefly, Andr markedly attenuated cardiac fibrosis and relieved inflammation after myocardial infarction. Specifically, Andr significantly blocked oxidative stress and the nuclear translocation of p-P65 following myocardial infarction. At the mechanistic level, antioxidant effect of Andr was achieved through strengthening antioxidative stress capacity and attributed to the activation of Nrf2/HO-1 Signaling. Consistently, H9C2 administrated with Andr showed a decreased oxidative stress caused by hypoxia precondition, but treatment with specific Nrf2 inhibitor (ML385) or the silence of Nrf2 blunted the activation of Nrf2/HO-1 Signaling and removed the protective effects of Andr in vitro. Thus, we suggest that Andr alleviates adverse cardiac remodeling following myocardial infarction through enhancing Nrf2 signaling pathway.

9 illus, 34 ref

043081   LIAO C, LONG Z, ZHANG X, CHENG J, QI F, WU S, HUANG T (Urology Dep, Southern Medical Univ (The First People's Hospital of Shunde), Foshan City 528308, Guangdong Province, China, Email: my6q@Virginia.edu) : LncARSR sponges miR-129-5p to promote proliferation and metastasis of bladder cancer cells through increasing SOX4 expression. Int J Biol Sci 2020, 16(1), 1-11.

Emerging evidences have indicated that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are potential biomarkers, playing important roles in the development of cancer. LncRNA Activated in RCC with Sunitinib Resistance (lncARSR) is a novel lncRNA that functions as a potential biomarker and is involved in the progression of cancers. However, the clinical significance and molecular mechanism of lncARSR in bladder cancer (Bca) remains unknow. In this study, we discovered that lncARSR was significantly up-regulated in bladder cancer. In addition, increased expression of lncARSR was positively correlated with higher histological grade and larger tumor size. Further experiments demonstrated that suppression of lncARSR attenuated the proliferation, migration, invasion and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process of Bca cells. Mechanistically, lncARSR was mainly located in the cytoplasm and acted as a miRNA sponge to positively modulate the expression of Sex-determining region Y-related high-mobility-group box transcription factor 4 (SOX4) via sponging miR-129-5p and subsequently promoted the proliferation and metastasis of Bca cells, thus playing an oncogenic role in Bca pathogenesis. In conclusion, our study indicated that lncARSR plays a critical regulatory role in Bca cells and lncARSR may serve as a potential diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic target for bladder cancer.

7 illus, 1 table, 34 ref

041242   SINGH A, KONARK, PATIL V, JUYAL M, RAJ R, RANGARI P (Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics Dep, Patna Dental Coll and Hospital, Patna, Bihar, Email: konarksingh22@gmail.com) : Comparative evaluation of occlusal pits and fissures morphology modification techniques before application of sealants: An in vitro study. Indian J Dent Res 2020, 31(2), 247-51.

Pits and Fissures are recognized as being highly susceptible to caries. Pit and fissure sealants are one of the best methods of preventing caries as it occludes the fissures and pits from the accumulation of plaque and cariogenic microflora. There are different methods of cleaning and preparing occlusal pits and fissures for preventing caries which helps in alleviating oral health status of paediatric population. The aim of the present study was to evaluate and compare the microleakage of pit and fissure sealants after using five different preparation techniques, namely: A) Conventional technique using pumice prophylaxis, B) enameloplasty with round carbide bur, C) enameloplasty with fissurotomy bur, D) air polisher, and E) air abrasion. The study was conducted on 50 caries‑free premolars extracted for orthodontic purpose. These teeth were randomly assigned to five groups, 10 teeth in each for receiving fissure sealant after different surface preparation; thermocycling and sectioning of samples were performed and microleakage was assessed under a stereomicroscope after methylene blue dye immersion. The results of air abrasion groups were significantly superior with “0” microleakage when compared to all other groups followed by round bur, fissurotomy bur, air polisher and pumice prophylaxis. To improve the marginal adaptation of the sealants, minimally invasive methods are the most favoured methods of occlusal preparation. This study promises to show positive results for fissure sealants which are likely to play an important role in caries prevention and techniques that are intended to protect caries susceptible surfaces.

2 illus, 3 tables, 17 ref

041241   BAVARESCO D, MEUSEL L D Z V, FRANCO A, MAKEEVA I, PARANHOS L R, CERICATO G O (Therapeutic Dentistry Dep, Sechenov Univ, Moscow - 119991, Russia, Email: franco.gat@gmail.com) : Morphology of the palatal rugae before and after orthodontic treatment with and without rapid maxillary expansion and dental extractions. Indian J Dent Res 2020, 31(2), 241-6.

The palatal rugae contribute to oral swallowing, taste perception, and speech. From a forensic point of view, the distinctive morphology of these structures can be used to support human identification. However, the morphology of the rugae may be altered by trauma or therapeutic interventions in the palate. This study aimed to analyze the morphology of the palatal rugae before and after orthodontic treatment performed with and without maxillary expansion and dental extractions. The sample consisted of 60 dental casts taken before (n = 30) and after (n = 30) orthodontic treatment from patients aged >18 years. The patients were treated with rapid maxillary expansion by using Haas appliance (n = 10), by extracting the maxillary first premolars (n = 10) and by using only conventional fixed orthodontic appliances (n = 10). All the dental casts were analyzed twice by two independent examiners that were blind for the type of treatment. All the differences between groups were statistically significant (P < 0.05). More alterations in the morphology of the palatal rugae were observed in patients treated with rapid maxillary expansion, whereas few alterations were performed in patients treated with no maxillary expansion or dental extractions. The use of palatal rugae for forensic purposes must be avoided in patients that underwent invasive orthodontic treatments, such as those founded on maxillary expansion and dental extractions.

1 illus, 4 tables, 30 ref

044995   SHEN Y, CHENG C-S, WANG P, ZHU X, LEI G, FANG Y, LI H, FAN W, PAN H, TANG Z et al. (Fudan Univ, Shanghai- 200 032, China, Email: mengzhq@yeah.net) : CSCO ablation expert workshop report: Recommendations for the management of tumor ablation during the coronavirus disease 2019 epidemic. J Can Res Ther 2020, 16(2), 350-5.

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‑19) has become a global pandemic since its outbreak in December 2019, which posed a threat to the safety and well‑being of people on a global scale. Cancer patients are at high risk of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‑CoV‑2) infection, and their critical morbidity and case fatality rates are high. The ablation expert committee of the Chinese Society of Clinical Oncology compiled corresponding expert recommendations. These recommendations summarize the preventive measures and management of tumor ablation treatment in medical institutions, including outpatient clinics, oncology wards, ablation operation room, and postablation follow‑ups in accordance with the guidelines and protocols imposed by the National Health Commission of the People’s Republic of China and the experience in management and prevention according to various hospitals. This consensus aims to reduce and prevent the spread of SARS‑CoV‑2 and its cross‑infection between cancer patients in hospitals and provide regulatory advice and guidelines for medical personnel.

20 ref

043080   DADMI P , RAO KS P , METI B S , HARSHITA NJ (KVG Medical Coll, Sullia, DK, Karnataka) : Awareness of diabetes and its complications among college-going non-medical post graduate students in India. Int J Multidiscip Res Dev 2020, 7(3), 73-5.

In spite various awareness programs, the awareness of diabetes mellitus (DM) and its complications among general population across the world, has remained low. Awareness of the disease is the cornerstone for desirable control and prevention or management of complications. 1. To study the awareness of DM among college-going non-medical post-graduate students. 2. To study the awareness on the complications of DM among college going non-medical post-graduate students. This descriptive questionnaire-based study was performed among 104 non-medical post-graduate students who fulfilled selection criteria. The structured and validated questionnaire assessed the knowledge on risk factors, early clinical symptoms, diagnosis, prevention of complications and treatment of diabetes. The responses with the score were tabulated and awareness was graded as poor (1-16 points), moderate (17-32 points) and good (33-48 points). Among the selected 104, there were 44 male and 60 female participants. The awareness on DM among 86 % was moderate, 13 % was good and 1 % was poor. Females tend to have better awareness on cause, symptoms and diagnosis of DM; whereas males had better awareness on its complications. The awareness of treatment of DM was poor in over half the participants. This study, among post graduate students showed moderate to poor awareness on diabetes and its complications. This observation raise doubt on the effectiveness of public health education programs on non-communicable diseases.

1 table, 11 ref

043079   PARMAR M D, ROJASARA B H (CU Shah Univ, Surendranagar, Postal, Gujarat) : Nature of right to information: Constitutional, statutory or legal. Int J Multidiscip Res Dev 2020, 7(3), 70-2.

Right to information is inherent in Fundamental Right. Supreme Court in many cases interpret Right to Information and reasonable restriction on such right. Today most of democratic country prefer ‘Open Government’ i.e. Transparent. So they implement Open Data available not only to it’s citizen but to any person. RTI implemented in India to reduce corruption, but when a application filed with Government Authority then he always been under dilemma that whether such information is under exception or not, Supreme Court in it’s landmark cases explain how independent decision making is important for transparency. This paper is humble attempt to find nature of right to information.

1 illus, 1 table, 18 ref

041238   SODAWALA J, AKOLKAR A, SODAWALA F, GANDHI S, HAMDANI S, ALI S M (Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics Dep, Rungta Coll of Dental Sciences and Research, Bhilai, Chhattisgarh, Email: amit.akolkar83@ gmail.com) : Comparison of soft tissue chin thickness at different levels of chin in subjects with various growth patterns. Indian J Dent Res 2020, 31(2), 224-8.

To evaluate the association between mandibular growth pattern and soft tissue chin (STC) thickness measured at different chin levels and the gender differences in STC thickness at these different chin levels. Pretreatment lateral cephalograms of 161 subjects aged 18–45 years were selected, and subjects were divided into 4 groups depending on mandibular growth pattern defined by the mandibular plane to cranial base angle. The STC thicknesses were measured at pogonion (Pog), gnathion (Gn), and menton (Me). Group difference was evaluated using analysis of variance. STC thickness was greater (p < .05) in the low‑angle group, and it gradually decreased across the groups, the least being in the high‑angle group. No sexual dimorphism was observed among the groups (p > .05). This study suggests that STC thickness measurements were smaller in high‑angle group compared to low‑angle group.

1 illus, 5 tables, 13 ref

043078   NAIDU R R , MANOHAR K (Govt. Degree Coll, Chittoor Dist, Anadara Pradesh) : Performance assessment of handloom co-operative societies in Nellore district: A study. Int J Multidiscip Res Dev 2020, 7(3), 65-9.

The development of handloom co-operative societies depends on the efficiency of its member weavers. The skillful, committed and efficient weavers can emerge only when handloom co-operative societies function efficiently. It implies that development of handloom co-operatives and the economic development of weavers are like two sides of the same coin. There is a correlation between proper functioning co-operative societies and economic development of weavers. The success of cooperatives ultimately depends on the commitment, efficiency and involvement of the weavers in their activity for the welfare of the society.

3 tables, 17 ref

044994   ZHANG A, SU X, WANG Y, SHI G-F, HAN C, ZHANG J, WANG L, ZHANG R (CT and MRI Dep, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical Univ, Hebei, China, Email: gaofengs62 @163.com) : Prediction of radiotherapy effect by diffusion‑weighted imaging in esophageal carcinoma xenograft model. J Can Res Ther 2020, 16(2), 343-9.

This study was to evaluate the value of diffusion‑weighted imaging (DWI) in predicting the efficacy of radiotherapy for esophageal cancer from xenograft model level. Thirty‑two tumor‑bearing mice from the Eca‑109 cell line nude mice models were established. The experimental group (n = 16) received a single dose of 15 Gy (6MV X‑ray), whereas the control group (n = 16) did not receive any treatment. The tumor volume and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) were obtained. The cell density, tissue necrosis ratio, and CD31 expression were determined at matched time points.  The tumor volume was smaller in the experimental group than in the control group (P < 0.05) on the 7th day after radiotherapy (1.580 ± 0.965 cm3 vs. 2.671 ± 0.915 cm3 ). The ADC values were higher in the experimental group than in the control group on the 3rd day (P < 0.05) (998.15 ± 163.76 ×10−6 mm2 /s vs. 833.32 ± 142.15 ×10−6 mm2 /s). On the 3rd day after radiotherapy, the differences in cell density and necrosis ratio between the two groups were statistically significant; the tumor cell density was lower in the experimental group (25.56 ± 1.40 %) than in the control group (33.48 ± 4.18 %) (P < 0.05), and the proportion of tissue necrosis was higher in the experimental group (32.19 ± 1.21%) than in the control group (29.16 ± 2.16 %) (P < 0.05). The negative and weak positive rate of CD31 expression in the experimental group was higher than the control group, whereas the generally positive and strong positive rate of CD31 expression was significantly lower than the control group in the early stage (P < 0.05).  ADC values may change at the early stage before the morphological changes of tumors. Changes in cell density and necrosis ratio of transplanted tumors correspond to the changes in ADC values. DWI can be used for the early prediction of esophageal cancer radiotherapy efficacy.

5 illus, 5 tables, 31 ref

043077   SHAHI R (Management Dep, Lumbini Banijya Campus, Butwal, Nepal) : Work environment as a predictor of employee retention: The role of gender. Int J Multidiscip Res Dev 2020, 7(3), 59-64.

This study seeks to examine the influence of different dimensions comprising working environment on the retention intention of employees, taking also into account their gender. The population of the study constitutes from junior assistant to managerial level employees working in 14 development banks operated in Butwal Sub Metropolitan City, Nepal. Data for the study were collected through convenience sampling method using five point likert scale questionnaires from the sample of 164 employees. Descriptive statistics, correlation, regression analysis and process macro by Andrew F. Hayes were used for the purpose of analyzing data. From the study, it is revealed that among various factors under study, career growth has the major influence on employee retention. Moreover, the study found that gender moderates the influence of working environment to employee retention.

2 illus, 5 tables, 29 ref

041237   CHANDRU T P, YAHIYA M B, PEEDIKAYIL F C, DHANESH N, SRIKANT N, KOTTAYI S (Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry Dep, Kannur Dental Coll, Kannur - 670 612, Kerala, Email: bazanthyahiya.mailme@gmail.com) : Comparative evaluation of three different toothpastes on remineralization potential of initial enamel lesions: A scanning electron microscopic study. Indian J Dent Res 2020, 31(2), 217-23.

The early enamel lesions are reversible as it is a process involving mineral transactions between the teeth and saliva. To evaluate the efficiency of three different tooth pastes on remineralization potential of initial enamel lesions using Vickers Micro hardness Test and Scanning electron microscopy. Artificial carious lesions were prepared in human enamel with demineralizing solution. The treatment agents included were Colgate sensitive plus^® toothpaste, Regenerate enamel science™ toothpaste, BioRepair^® toothpaste and control as Deionized water. All the samples were subjected to treatment solutions as per the pH cycling model for 12 days to simulate the daily oral environment’s acid challenge. The remineralization parameters-surface hardness and surface roughness of enamel blocks were evaluated with Vickers indenter and Scanning electron microscope respectively. Statistical Analysis: ANOVA test was used to check mean differences between the groups. Post hoc analysis was done using Tukey’s post hoc test. SEM images were graded according to Bonetti et al grading criteria. As per statistical analysis, maximum remineralization of enamel blocks occurred after applying Colgate Sensitive Plus^® tooth paste followed by BioRepair® tooth paste and Regenerate enamel Science™ toothpaste. Least remineralization potential was shown by control group. Colgate sensitive plus tooth paste with Pro Argin™ formula can be regarded as a potential remineralising agent. It can be concluded as a noninvasive means of managing early enamel carious lesions.

6 illus, 6 tables, 28 ref

043076   MULUNEH W (Theatre Arts Dep, Wolkite Univ, Ethiopia) : Media as a tool for community development in Ethiopia In the case of “Aynachin "television progeram. Int J Multidiscip Res Dev 2020, 7(3), 54-8.

This study investigated the role of media in promoting community development in terms of Social perspective in Ethiopia the case of aynachin television program. The objective of the study was to explore and analyze the roles and activities of media as focused on Aynachin TV program in community development. The researcher has employed qualitative research method with a descriptive aim. The primary data were collected from 70 participants of whom 12 of them were (media worker), 30 of them were the community, 20 of them were from different sectors and the remaining 8 were from journalism experts and all of them were selected by using purposive and dimensional sampling techniques. Moreover, the study adopts referring books, the internet, various PhD dissertation and MA thesis and guiding principles and rules and regulations, reports of international organizations and other researchers and articles which are written on it and its related activities as a source of secondary data. In addition to this, key informant interview, documentary review, observation checklist and in-depth interviews were also important sources of primary data. The researcher mainly employed thematic data analysis technique while dealing with the gathered qualitative data. The findings from the study revealed that, ''aynachin'' TV program for addressing development communication. As a development communication project its beings many solutions for the problem which shows within the societies. Because, participatory development communication can use mass media that empowers communities to visual aspiration and discover solution to their problems.

5 ref

041236   BARAKAT H, DAYOUB S (Periodontology Dep, Damascus Univ, Damascus, Syria, Email: dr.haydarbarakat@yahoo.com) : Treatment of miller type I and II gingival recession defects using three-dimensional porcine collagen matrix with coronally advanced flap: A randomized clinical split-mouth trial (a 1-year follow-up). Indian J Dent Res 2020, 31(2), 209-16.

The main goal of periodontal plastic surgery is obtaining complete root coverage (CRC) and an optimal appearance. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a three‑dimensional porcine collagen matrix (PCM) with coronally advanced flap (CAF) in treating of Miller type I and II gingival recession (GR). Twenty patients were enrolled in this study, presenting 40 Miller type I and II GR. Patients were randomized into test group (PCM + CAF) and control group [connective tissue graft (CTG + CAF)]. Clinical parameters such as recession depth (RD), probing depth, clinical attachment level (CAL), and width of keratinized gingiva (WKG) were evaluated at baseline and 12 months later. Root coverage percentage (RC %) and CRC were assessed at 12 months post surgically. Statistical analysis was performed using independent t‑test for intergroup comparison. Statistical significance was set at 0.05. The mean RD at 12 months was 0.20 mm for the test group and 0.12 mm for the control group, whereas the mean RC % was 94.22 % for PCM + CAF and 96.48 % for CTG + CAF. CRC was higher in CTG + CAF with 80 %. CAL gain was 2.05 and 2.07 mm in the test and control sites, respectively. The gain of WKG was 1.35 and 1.30 mm in the test and control sites, respectively. Patient esthetic satisfaction at 12 months post surgically in both groups was equivalent. Within the limits of this study, using of PCM + CAF in treating GR is a successful and effective treatment option and could serve as an alternative to CTGs.

3 illus, 5 tables, 27 ref

043075   CHANDRAN N (Management Dep, Kerala Agricultural Univ, Thrissur, Kerala) : Financial performance analysis of primary cooperative agricultural and rural development banks; with special reference to Ernakulum district of Kerala. Int J Multidiscip Res Dev 2020, 7(3), 48-53.

The primary cooperative agricultural and rural development banks in Kerala have been assigned a vital role in agricultural development in the State. It is through the branches of these banks that various programmes of the government are being implemented in agricultural sector. However, the performance of these banks in recent years shows a deterioration owing to its structural and functional limitations. Therefore, the study has come up with the objective of studying the financial performance of Aluva primary cooperative agricultural and rural development bank located in Ernakulum district of Kerala. The study period covered financial data for ten years from 2008-09 to 2017-18 and the data was analysed with the help of financial ratios. The study found that performance of the bank is financially sound but with minimum possible disfigurements which is suggested to wrestle with appropriate management practices.

3 illus, 2 tables, 8 ref

044993   ZHANG Q, DONG G, WANG F, DING W (Spine Surgery Dep, The Third Hospital of Hebei Medical Univ, Shijiazhuang- 050 051, China, Email: doctos2014@ 2925.com) : Correlation between the changes of serum COX 2, APE1, VEGF, TGF‑β and TSGF levels and prognosis in patients with osteosarcoma before and after treatment. J Can Res Ther 2020, 16(2), 335-42.

Osteosarcoma (OS) is a progressive primary bone tumor that originates from immature stromal spindle cells. After chemotherapy, the serum-related indexes which are related to the prognosis. The aim of this study is to investigate the correlation between changes in serum cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), and tumor-specific growth factor (TSGF) levels and prognosis of patients with osteosarcoma (OS) before and after treatment. Data of 75 patients with OS (observation group) and 55 healthy controls(control group) were retrospectively analyzed. Chemotherapy was administered to the observation group. Serum lactate dehydrogenase, alkaline phosphatase, and TSGF levels were measured before and after treatment. The observation group patients were classified as normal or abnormal according to the changes in serum COX-2, bFGF, VEGF, TGF-β, and TSGF levels after chemotherapy. Patients were followed up for 7.5 years, and the survival rate was determined. Single-factor influencing prognosis was included in the Cox model, and independent factors influencing prognosis were analyzed. After chemotherapy, the mean serum COX-2, bFGF, VEGF, and TSGF levels decreased significantly in the observation group but were still higher than those in the control group. Furthermore, serum TGF-β levels increased in the observation group but were still lower than those in the control group. The 5-year survival rate of patients with normal serum COX-2, bFGF, VEGF, and TSGF levels was significantly higher in the normal subgroup than in the abnormal subgroup. Cox analysis showed that the Enneking stage and COX-2 level after chemotherapy were independent prognostic factors. The serum COX-2, bFGF, VEGF, and TSGF levels of patients with OS significantly changed after chemotherapy, and the short-term survival rate of patients with normal levels of these biomarkers after chemotherapy was high.

5 illus, 4 tables, 49 ref

041235   SABRI L A, HUSSEIN F A, AL-ZAHAWI A R, ABDULRAHMAN B Y, SALLOOMI K N (Mechatronics Dep, Al-Khwarizmi Coll of Engineering, Baghdad, Iraq, Email: Laith.Sabri@case.edu) : Biomechanical finite element analysis of a single implant threaded in anterior and posterior regions of maxilla bone. Indian J Dent Res 2020, 31(2), 203-8.

The ability of implant dentistry to be a successful alternative for edentulous patients has increased in the last decade. Clinical features such as osseointegration and stability, in addition to the endurance of the integration urged the researchers towards a better understanding of the design parameters that control long term success of the implants. It is therefore necessary to quantify the effect of changing implant design parameters on interface stress distribution within the maxilla bone. A 3D-finite element study was conducted to investigate the effect of changing implant shape parameters (implant body design and implant thread depth) on stress distribution while insertion of the implant in two different regions of maxilla bone (anterior (type III bone) and posterior (type IV bone)). A 3D-CAD geometry of implant-maxilla bone was created through importing digitally visualized CT skull images of a human adult, and then converted into a workable solid body through using a collection of engineering software. Tapered and cylindrical implant models with three different implant V-shaped thread depths (0.25 mm, 0.35 mm, 0.45 mm) were threaded into maxilla bone to investigate the design parameters effect on the final stress status. The proposed implant was of commercial dimensions of 10 mm length and 4 mm in diameter. A vertical static load of 250N was directly applied to the center of the suprastructure of the implant for each model. Evaluations were performed for stress distribution patterns and maximum equivalent Von Mises (EQV) stresses for implants in two regions of maxilla bone under 250N vertical static loading. The obtained results throughout this work showed that, for all models, the highest stresses were located at the crestal cortical bone around the implant neck. The von-Mises stress distribution patterns at different models were similar and higher peak von-Mises stresses of cortical bone were seen in tapered implant body compared to cylinder body in all models. Within the restrictions of the current model, the results obtained can be applied clinically to select properly both implant thread depth and body shape design for a foreseeable success of implant therapy.

6 illus, 1 table, 35 ref

041234   KUMAR S R, PATIL P G, CHOY C S, VEERAKUMARASIVAM A (Clinical Dentistry Div, International Medical Univ, Lumpur - 57000, Malaysia, Email: pravinandsmita@yahoo.co.in) : The location of the inferior alveolar nerve in the Malaysian population: Implications for dental implant planning. Indian J Dent Res 2020, 31(2), 197-202.

The location of the inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) is generally constant in fully grown mandibles. If we know its average distance from the lower border of the mandible, available bone length from the crest of the edentulous ridge can be estimated by physical measurement of the whole length of mandible in that area. This study aimed to measure the superio‑inferior distance of the inferior alveolar nerve (SIDIAN) from the base of the mandible in posterior regions on the right and left side based on cone‑beam‑computed tomography (CBCT) scans and to evaluate gender and ethnicity‑related variations in the Malaysian population. A total of 100 CBCT‑Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine files of the patients of 3 ethnic populations (Malay, Chinese and Indian) between the ages of 18 and 80 years were selected for the study. The files were imported onto the iCAT software. The measurements of the SIDIAN to the lower border of the mandible in molar regions were done on both sides. The data was analysed using t‑test, one‑way analysis of variance test, and correlation coefficient test via the SPSS software. Statistically significant positive correlations were identified between the SIDIAN from the lower border of the mandible in the first and second molar regions within the same side as well as between both sides of the mandible (r ≈ 0.8). There were no statistically significant differences between genders. However, there were statistically significant differences on both molar regions and on both sides in all three ethnic groups (P < 0.05). In general, the SIDIAN from the lower border of the mandible was greatest amongst Chinese and smallest amongst Indians. The strong positive correlations on both sides of the mandible indicate the presence of symmetry. Ethnicity-related variations exist in terms of the location of the IAN in the mandible.

6 illus, 3 tables, 7 ref

044992   MENG M, LI W, YANG X, HUANG G, WEI Z, NI Y, HAN X, WANG J,YE X (Oncology Dep, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical Univ, Shandong Province- 250 014, China, Email: yexintaian2014 @163.com) : Transarterial chemoembolization, ablation, tyrosine kinase inhibitors, and immunotherapy (TATI): A novel treatment for patients with advanced Hepatocellular carcinoma. J Can Res Ther 2020, 16(2), 327-34.

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignant tumors. Currently, the main effective treatment options for HCC include resection, liver transplantation, various percutaneous modalities (such as transarterial chemoembolization [TACE] and thermal ablation), and tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). Herein, we have proposed a novel therapy which consists of TACE, ablation, tyrosine kinase inhibitors, and immunotherapy (TATI) for patients with advanced HCC). We reported the therapeutic effects of TATI in four patients with advanced HCC. All patients underwent TACE treatment at the beginning of disease diagnosis. During follow‑up, all patients were treated with microwave ablation because of a residual tumor or recurrence. For tumor control, apatinib, a TKI, was administered after ablation. If the tumor was resistant to the TKI, we continued to apatinib therapy in combination with immunotherapy (camrelizumab). All the four patients had better survival benefits and no serious adverse effects.

3 illus, 2 tables, 32 ref

041233   SHULAMITHI P S, KULKARNI S, DOSHI D, REDDY M P, REDDY B S, SRILATHA A (Public Health Dentistry Dep, Panineeya Institute of Dental Sciences and Research Centre,, Hyderabad, Telangana - 500 060, Email: dr.shulamithi@gmail.com) : Assessment of dental satisfaction among school teachers in a metropolitan city. Indian J Dent Res 2020, 32(2), 191-6.

Dental satisfaction is a multi‑dimensional concept, reflecting the total experience of health care and a major driving force of treatment seeking behaviour. At community level, school teachers, being the role model, also play a major role in public health. The aim of this study is to assess the dental satisfaction among school teachers in Hyderabad. A cross‑sectional survey was carried out among 515 private school teachers in Hyderabad. The survey tool used was Dental Satisfaction Questionnaire (DSQ) developed by Davies and Ware (1982). Data was analysed with SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) version 22. The study comprised of 123 (23.9 %) males and 392 (76.1 %) females. Based on age, significant relation was found only for subscales ‘access’, ‘quality’ and ‘general satisfaction’ (P = 0.01, P = 0.04, P = 0.03 respectively). Though female subjects had higher mean scores for all subscales, significant difference was found only for subscales ‘cost’, ‘quality’, ‘access total’, ‘general satisfaction’, and ‘overall Dental Satisfaction Index’ (DSI) (P < 0.001, P = 0.001, P = 0.008, P < 0.001, P = 0.001 respectively). Subjects who had visited a dentist had higher mean scores and significant relation was found for subscales ‘access’ and ‘general satisfaction’ (P = 0.04, P = 0.04 respectively). Furthermore, subjects who visited a private practitioner had higher mean scores for most of the subscales. Female subjects, subjects who had dental visit and those who had visited a private practitioner had higher dental satisfaction. Moreover, age and recent dental visit did not show any effect on dental satisfaction.

4 tables, 24 ref

044991   PAN Y, SHA Y, WANG H, ZHUANG H, REN X, ZHU X, WEI X (Respiratory Medicine Dep, Fudan Univ, Shanghai- 201 399, China, Email: zhuxianji521 @163.com) : Comprehensive analysis of the association between tumor‑infiltrating immune cells and the prognosis of lung adenocarcinoma. J Can Res Ther 2020, 16(2), 320-6.

Increasing evidence has indicated an association between immune cell infiltration in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and clinical outcomes. This study aimed to investigate the effect of 22 tumor‑infiltrating immune cells (TIICs) on the prognosis of patients with LUAD. This was a case–control study. The CIBERSORT algorithm calculated the proportion of cases from the Cancer Genome Atlas(TCGA) cohort. Cox regression analysis evaluated the effect of TIICs on the prognosis of LUAD. The immune risk score model was constructed based on a statistical correlation. Multivariate cox regression analysis investigated independent factors. P < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. Certain immune cells had differential infiltration between normal tissues and LUAD. Univariate Cox regression analysis revealed that four immune cell types were statistically correlated with LUAD‑related survival risk, and an immune risk scoring model was constructed. The results indicated that patients in the high‑risk group were associated with poor outcomes. In addition, the multivariate cox analysis revealed that the immune risk scoring model was an independent factor for LUAD prognosis prediction. Ultimately, a nomogram was established to comprehensively predict the survival of LUAD patients. TIICs played an essential role in the prognosis of LUAD. Furthermore, the immune risk score was a poor predictive factor of LUAD, and the established model was reliable in predicting the prognosis of LUAD.

5 illus, 2 tables, 24 ref

041232   CHANDAN P K, ARORA K S, DAS M, KAUR P, MOHAPTRA S, PAREEK S (Oral Medicine and Radiology Dep, Rajasthan Dental Coll and Hospital, Jaipur, Rajasthan, Email: drkaranarora@yahoo.com) : Assessment of validity and reliability of kvaal’s method for age estimation among a population sample – a retrospective study. Indian J Dent Res 2020, 31(2), 186-90.

The present research was carried out with an aim to estimate and correlate chronological age and estimated age by Kvaal’s Method in North Indian population using digital panoramic radiography. Further, the study was an attempt to evaluate the reliability of Kvaal’s method for age estimation and to arrive at a population‑specific regression equation. One hundred digital orthopantomograms of participants aged between 20 and 70 years of age were selected. The evaluation of 6 teeth according to Kvaal’s method was carried out using measure tool of Sidexis Software (provided by the manufacturer). Correlation coefficient was carried out between chronological age and estimated age and further regression analysis was carried out for obtaining a population specific regression equation. It was observed that coefficient of determination (R²) is highest (0.223) for mandibular canine which indicates that age can be better estimated with this particular tooth. It was observed that large variations between the chronological and estimated age were not found. Also, Kvaal’s formula proved accurate for estimating age using all the six selected teeth. Thus, it was concluded that mandibular canine would be the better tooth for age estimation, followed by maxillary second premolar and maxillary three teeth taken together.

6 illus, 3 tables, 12 ref

041231   HABIB F, CHALY P E, JUNAID M, MUSTHAFA H M (Public Health Dentistry Dep, Karpaga Vinayaga Institute of Dental Sciences, Maduranthagam - 600 054, Tamil Nadu, Email: dr.faizunisa@gmail.com) : Caries experience, clinical consequences of untreated dental caries and associated factors among school going children - a cross-sectional study. Indian J Dent Res 2020, 31(2), 180-5.

To assess the dental caries experience, clinical consequences of untreated dental caries, and associated factors among 6–13 years school going children in Tiruvallur taluk of Tiruvallur district, Tamil Nadu. The study population included a sample of 1,060 study subjects, aged 6–13 years from both government and private schools. The subjects were interviewed regarding oral hygiene practices, diet, dental visits, body mass index, income of the parents using a closed‑ended questionnaire. Caries experience was assessed by recording the  Pulpitis, Ulceration, Fistula, Abscess (DMFT)/dmft score and untreated carious lesion was assessed using Pulpitis, Ulceration, Fistula, Abscess (PUFA)/pufa index. Pearson’s Chi‑square test, independent sample t‑test, Kendal tau correlation and binary logistic regression were performed to determine the relationship between DMFT, dmft, PUFA, pufa scores, and various independent factors. Among the study subjects, the mean DMFT and dmft scores were 0.12 ± 0.45 and 0.79 ± 0.15, respectively. The mean PUFA and pufa scores were 0.02 ± 0.150 and 0.14 ± 0.55, respectively. Subjects who never visited the dentist and who belonged to underweight group had significantly 2.2 times and 2.3 times, respectively, increased chances for caries experience in deciduous dentition. Subjects who never visited the dentist and who belong to underweight group had significantly 1.8 times and 1.7 times respectively, increased chances for odontogenic infection in deciduous dentition. Dental caries experience and odontogenic infections were found to be higher in the primary dentition compared to permanent dentition. The habit of not visiting the dentist had increased the chances of developing dental caries and odontogenic infection in primary dentition.

5 tables, 15 ref

044990   SUN W, CHEN L, TANG J, ZHANG C, WEN Y, WEN W (Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery Dep, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen Univ, Guangzhou, China, Email: wenyhui@mail. sysu.edu.cn) : Targeting EZH2 depletes LMP1-induced activated regulatory T cells enhancing antitumor immunity in nasopharyngeal carcinoma. J Can Res Ther 2020, 16(2), 309-19.

Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are critical factors that impair antitumor immunity. Epstein–Barr virus (EBV)‑encoded latent membrane protein 1 (LMP1) is one of the most pathogenic factors in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). However, the role of EBV‑encoded LMP1 in regulating Treg generation in NPC remains unclear. The in vitro stability of activated Tregs (aTregs) influenced by LMP1 was analyzed by flow cytometry. The inhibitory effects of LMP1‑HONE1 antigen‑induced aTregs on tumor‑associated antigen (TAA)‑specific T cells were analyzed in vitro and in vivo. Finally, the expression of LMP1, Foxp3, and enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) were analyzed in samples from 86 NPC patients by immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence. LMP1 upregulated the expression of EZH2, which increased the stability of aTregs in vitro. EZH2 inhibitor, DZnep, depleted LMP1‑HONE1 antigen‑induced aTregs in vitro and led to potent TAA‑specific T cell antitumor immunity in vivo. In NPC tissues, LMP1 expression level was positively correlated with the number of EZH2+ Tregs, which was positively correlated with clinical stage and overall survival. EZH2 is essential for maintaining the stability and inhibitory functions of aTregs that are induced by EBV‑encoded LMP1 in NPC.

6 illus, 1 table, 27 ref

044989   WANG H, LI B, WANG Y, ZHANG J , WU Y, FAN W, LI J (Interventional Oncology Dep, Sun Yat?Sen Univ, Guangzhou- 510 080, China, Email: jiapingli_2019 @163.com) : Time to untreatable progression is an appropriate surrogate endpoint for overall survival in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma after transarterial chemoembolization. J Can Res Ther 2020, 16(2), 301-8.

The aim of the study was to determine whether the time to progression (TTP) or time to untreatable progression (TTUP) is an appropriate surrogate endpoint for overall survival (OS) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after transarterial chemoembolization (TACE). Eighty‑four patients with Barcelona clinic liver cancer (BCLC) stage B or C HCC underwent TACE. The correlations of TTP and TTUP with OS were evaluated after a log transformation of the indicated values. After identifying independent prognostic factors of TTP, TTUP, and OS, the partial correlations of TTP and TTUP with OS were analyzed in all patients and subgroups. Subsequently, the prognostic value of TTP and TTUP was compared by the multivariate survival analysis of OS. Both the BCLC stage and tumor number were correlated with TTP and TTUP. In addition, the BCLC stage, initial treatment failure, and sorafenib administration were associated with OS. In all patients, the correlation coefficients of TTP and TTUP with OS were 0.559 and 0.789, respectively. Adjustment for independent prognostic factors yielded partial correlation coefficients which were 0.433 and 0.697, respectively. Furthermore, OS was found to be associated with TTUP (P = 0.003; hazard ratio: 0.253; 95 % confidence interval: 0.10–0.63) but not with TTP. Untreatable progression is more representative of clinical progression in patients with HCC who underwent TACE. In the current study, TTUP is a more appropriate surrogate endpoint for OS than TTP. Future studies should explore whether untreatable progression is a valuable endpoint event in clinical trials or an indicator of the need for second‑line therapy.

4 illus, 4 tables, 28 ref

044988   WANG Y, CHENG Z, YU J, LI X, HAO G, LIU F, HAN Z, YU X, LIANG P (Interventional Ultrasound Dep, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing- 100 853, China, Email: liangping301 @126.com) : US-guided percutanous microwave ablation for early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma in elderly patients is as effective as in younger patients: A 10-year experience. J Can Res Ther 2020, 16(2), 292-300.

To compare the overall survival (OS), disease‑free survival (DFS) and liver‑cancer‑specific survival (LCSS) of elderly (≥65 years) and younger patients (< 65 years) with early‑stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) using ultrasound‑guided percutaneous microwave ablation (US‑PMMA). From January 2002 to December 2017, 510 elderly and 1053 younger patients were diagnosed with early-stage HCC according to the Milan criteria. All of these patients were treatment‑naïve to US‑PMMA. Baseline characteristics were collected to identify any risk factors to determine the survival outcomes. OS, DFS, and LCSS probabilities were calculated with the Kaplan‑Meier method and compared using the Log‑rank test. Complete ablation was achieved in all patients. Elderly patients were more likely to be, hepatitis C virus infection, comorbidities, cirrhosis, larger tumors, poor liver functional reservation, more ablation points, longer ablation time, longer hospital stays, and higher hospitalization costs (P < 0.05). Over the follow‑up period (12–156 months), no significant differences were detected in OS, DFS, and LCSS between the two groups (P = 0.092, 0.318, and 0.183). r-GT, ALB and ablation session were significant factors for OS, r-GT and ALB for LCSS, and cirrhosis, tumor number, AFP and ablation points for RFS in the multivariate analysis, respectively. No treatment‑related deaths occurred in the two groups. Any complications were treated as appropriate. Although advanced age and comorbidities are intrinsic factors in elderly HCC patients, similar survival outcomes were obtained in elderly and younger HCC patients treated by US‑PMWA, despite elderly patients having more comorbidities.

2 illus, 5 tables, 31 ref

044987   JIAO D, ZHOU X, LI Z, BI Y, ZHANG Q, LI J, LI L, REN J, HAN X (Interventional Radiology Dep, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou Univ, Zhengzhou- 450 052, China, Email: 13592583911 @163.com) : A newly designed biliary brachytherapy drainage catheter for patients with malignant biliary obstruction: A pilot study. J Can Res Ther 2020, 16(2), 286-91.

Self‑expandable metallic stent (SEMS) placement has been considered as the preferred treatment to relieve jaundice in nonsurgical patients. However, 50 % of stents become stenosed within 3–6 months due to tumor ingrowth and epithelial hyperplasia. This study aims to evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of a newly designed brachytherapy biliary drainage catheter (BBDC) loaded with 125I seeds for palliation of malignant biliary obstruction (MBO). In this prospective study, patients with unresectable MBO underwent BBDC placement after SEMS placement at our center from September 2017 to April 2019.  A total of 21 patients with MBO were enrolled. The technical and clinical success rates were 100 %. Total bilirubin, direct bilirubin, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, cancer antigen 19‑9, and carcinoembryonic antigen levels significantly decreased during the 1‑month follow‑up (P < 0.05). Four patients (19 %) had minor complications. During the median follow‑up of 299 days, 13 patients (61.9 %) developed stent occlusion. The 6‑month stent patency and survival rates were 73.5 % and 79.2 %, respectively. The median stent patency and survival were 279 and 454 days, respectively. The use of BBDC loaded with 125I seeds is a feasible and effective method to prolong biliary stent patency in patients with MBO.

3 illus, 3 tables, 19 ref

041229   RAO A, THOMAS B, PRASAD R B, KUMARI S B, VISHAKH R, SUBBA T A (Periodontics Dep, A B Shetty Memorial Institute of Dental Sciences, Mangalore - 575 018, Karnataka, Email: bijunicy@yahoo.co.uk) : A comparative evaluation of the DNA damage in the serum of chronic periodontitis patients with and without diabetes mellitus type II. Indian J Dent Res 2020, 31(2), 169-74.

Periodontal disease is an immunoinflammatory disease that is initiated by the interaction between microbial plaque and the periodontal tissues. There is very limited data available on the assessment of DNA damage with relation to periodontal diseases. Therefore, a need for a study in this area was felt. To evaluate the DNA damage in the serum of chronic periodontitis patients and chronic periodontitis with diabetes mellitus (DM) type II patients and to compare it with healthy controls, to assess whether periodontitis can have systemic effects beyond the periodontium. This cross‑sectional study was conducted involving 150 subjects in the age group of 30–60 years, from October 2010 to May 2015. A blood sample of 5 ml of venous blood was collected from each of the study subjects, from the antecubital vein. Fresh blood was used to assess the DNA damage. The DNA damage was estimated using the alkaline single‑cell gel (comet) assay. The DNA damage to the cells was calculated by assessing the percentage of “DNA in tail.” The results showed that the values were higher in the periodontitis with diabetes group, as compared to the periodontitis and control group. When the Olive moment was calculated, the values were higher in the periodontitis with diabetes group as compared with the other two groups. Although the values were seen to be higher, it was not statistically significant. The results obtained from this study although statistically insignificant suggest that the DNA damage was higher in chronic periodontitis as compared with healthy control. There was a potentiated difference of the values in patients with DM type II when compared to chronic periodontitis alone.

3 illus, 2 tables, 15 ref

044986   XU K, CHEN Y, SU J, SU M, YAN L (Hepatobiliary Surgery Dep, General Hospital, Beijing, China, Email: chenyong l301@163.com) : Irreversible electroporation and adjuvant chemoradiotherapy for locally advanced pancreatic carcinoma. J Can Res Ther 2020, 16(2), 280-5.

The safety and efficacy of irreversible electroporation (IRE) for locally advanced pancreatic carcinoma (LAPC) are well established. However, whether adjuvant chemoradiotherapy after IRE increases, the survival rate remains unknown. Therefore, this study evaluated the effect of chemoradiotherapy combined with IRE in patients with LAPC. We retrospectively analyzed 42 patients with LAPC between July 2015 and December 2016 at PLA General Hospital treated with IRE or IRE combined with radiation and/or chemotherapy. These patients were divided into the IRE group and the combined‑therapy group. All patients underwent computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging, and positron‑emission tomography‑CT and no signs of metastases were found. The prognosis of these patients was observed. The times after operation and after diagnosis in the combined‑therapy group (304.20 ± 118.54) and (334.40 ± 114.07) days, respectively, were better those than in the IRE group (214.36 ± 95.68) and (244.68 ± 110.61) days, respectively. Moreover, patients in the combined‑therapy group had a significantly better survival rate than the IRE group (80 vs. 45.45 %, P < 0.05). IRE combined with radiotherapy or chemotherapy was superior to IRE alone for the treatment of LAPC, as it prolonged the survival time and improved the survival rate, making it worthy of wide dissemination and clinical application.

1 illus, 5 tables, 28 ref

044985   LI W, YANG J, GU C T, YIN Y, LI Z, NI C (Vascular and Interventional Radiology Dep, First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow Univ, Suzhou- 215 006, China., Email: nicaifa ngsz@126.com) : In vivo microscopy of arterial distribution embolic particles in rabbit mesenteric artery. J Can Res Ther 2020, 16(2), 276-9.

To study the arterial distribution of embosphere microsphere (EM) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) particles in rabbit mesenteric artery using in vivo microscopy. Sixteen New Zealand rabbits were divided into four groups, namely large PVA (560–710 μm), small PVA (150–350 μm), large EM (500–700 μm), and small EM (100–300 μm). The mesenteric arteries of the experimental animals were embolized under fluoroscopic guidance and visualized using in vivo microscopy. The embolized vessel diameter and arterial distribution of embolic agents were compared. The diameters of occluded vessels in large PVA, small PVA, large EM, and small EM groups were 430.60 ± 67.30, 200.95 ± 70.54, 387.79 ± 92.51, and 143.81 ± 39.65 μm, respectively. PVA occluded significantly larger vessels than EM when the particle size was similar (P < 0.001). The proportion of EM at the bifurcation of the artery was significantly higher than that of PVA particles (large PVA < large EM, χ2 = 4.325, P < 0.038; small PVA < small EM, χ2 = 6.68, P < 0.01). Both PVA and EM could occlude vessels smaller than the particle size, and EM resulted in deeper penetration. The location of embolic particles in the artery is mainly related to the shape of particles.

2 illus, 1 table, 15 ref

044984   SHAO N, HAN Y, SONG L, SONG W (Oncology Dep, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical Univ, Jinan- 250 021, China, Email: songweisy@163.com) : Clinical significance of hypoxia‑inducible factor 1α, and its correlation with p53 and vascular endothelial growth factor expression in resectable esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. J Can Res Ther 2020, 16(2), 269-75.

Hypoxia‑inducible factor 1α (HIF‑1α), p53, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) are important factors that facilitate tumor progression. The aims of our study were to investigate the expression of HIF‑1α, p53, and VEGF in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) treated by curative surgery and to analyze their association with clinicopathological parameters and clinical outcome. The surgical specimens from 120 patients who had undergone potentially curative resection for ESCC were immunohistochemically assessed using monoclonal antibodies against HIF‑1α, p53, and VEGF. Results: Positive rates of HIF‑1α, p53, and VEGF expression were 61.7 %, 56.7 %, and 78.3 %, respectively. No significant relationship was found between HIF‑1α, p53, VEGF expression, and the analyzed clinicopathological parameters. There was no significant correlation between the expression of HIF‑1α, p53, and VEGF. Univariate analysis revealed that overexpression of HIF‑1α was associated with poor disease‑free and overall survival (P = 0.023 and 0.01, respectively). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that upregulation of HIF‑1α is an independent predictor for poor overall survival (P = 0.044). HIF‑1α was a useful independent prognostic factor for surgically treated ESCC. Further studies with larger sample size are required to determine the relationship between the expression of HIF‑1α, p53, VEGF, and clinicopathological parameters.

2 illus, 4 tables, 36 ref

043074   KUMAR US P, BHAT C R , MONIKA MP (General Medicine Dep, K V G Medical Coll and Hospital, Sullia, RGUHS, Karnataka) : A cross sectional study on plasma fibrinogen levels, bmi and lipid profile in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and hypertension. Int J Multidiscip Res Dev 2020, 7(3), 45-7.

In the evaluation of patients with diabetes and hypertension, the presence of markers for cardiovascular risk has become important. The study was done to evaluate the levels of plasma fibrinogen in patients with diabetes and hypertension and also correlate the fibrinogen levels in these patients with BMI and lipid profile. A total of 50 patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus and hypertension selected by systematic random sampling were considered as cases and these patients were matched by age and sex with 50 controls after obtaining informed consent and institutional ethical clearance. 32 (64 %) males and 18 (36 %) females were studied among the cases and controls. The mean plasma fibrinogen levels in cases was 468.42 ± 43.72 which was significantly higher than controls. Similarly the mean BMI, LDL levels and Total cholesterol levels were also higher in cases when compared to controls. Correlation existed between plasma fibrinogen and total cholesterol. Plasma fibrinogen levels, BMI, LDL cholesterol and total cholesterol levels where higher in cases than controls. Correlation was positive between plasma fibrinogen and total cholesterol.

1 illus, 2 tables, 18 ref