Augmenting mental health literacy of troops in a large military station: A novel approach

Background

Mental health literacy (MHL) helps in acknowledging the symptoms at an early stage, thus promoting prompt management of negative stress behaviors. Despite the central thrust towards augmentation of MHL of troops, there is a paucity of available literature on the subject matter, especially in the Indian context. Current research explores the efficacy of a standardized Information Education and Communication (IEC) module for the promotion of MHL among troops.

Materials and Methods

1200 soldiers posted in a large military station underwent a psycho-educational module about stress and related mental health conditions in an open-label experimental study. Data was collected using a simple demographic tool and a specially constructed Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC) mental health awareness questionnaire. The same sample was studied before the IEC activity, immediately after the IEC activity, and again after six months.

Results

Community-based psycho-educational module helped in improvement in MHL and the gains were stable at six months.

Conclusions

Well-standardized and structured module was found to be an effective strategy for improving MHL. The authors consider this study as seminal for bringing objectivity to mental health promotional programs in the Armed Forces.

Identification of plant beneficial Bacillus spp. for Resilient agricultural ecosystem

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The plant beneficial microbes from rhizosphere soils in cauliflower fields were characterized for plants beneficial attributes such as phosphorus solubilization, siderophore, chitinase and protease activity, and indole acetic acid type of growth regulator.

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The antagonistic behavior of these isolates against fusarium oxysporum and sclerotinia sclerotiorum revealed their potential in combating the biotic stresses.

The use of synthetic pesticides and chemicals to continuously increase agricultural productivity is causing severe damage to our ecosystem. Therefore, there is need to enhance our understanding about the factors which can contribute to soil processes and play key role in developing sustainable agricultural ecosystem. In this context, the bacteria from cauliflower rhizosphere were isolated and characterized for different plants beneficial attributes. The relationship of soil bacteria and its elemental composition was examined using canonical correspondence analysis. The elemental composition analysis of soil samples revealed presence of Mg, Al, Si, P, K, Ca, Fe and their oxides. In addition, the isolates were found positive for phosphorus solubilization, siderophore, chitinase and protease activity, and indole acetic acid type of growth regulator. The direct confrontation assay revealed antagonistic behavior of these isolates against Fusarium oxysporum and Sclerotinia sclerotiorum. The promising isolates were identified and affiliated to closely related species of genus Bacillus in phylogenetic relationship. The canonical correspondence analysis revealed distribution of elements and their relationship with the identified species in particular area. The characteristics of these isolates revealed their potential in alleviating the biotic and abiotic stresses and hence enhancing crops yield without the usage of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. The present study is first of its kind and will open new avenues to explore microbial community structure across different farmlands soils to develop resilience agricultural ecosystem.

Evaluation of a Nutraceutical Product with Probiotics, Vitamin D, Plus Banaba Leaf Extracts (Lagerstroemia speciosa) in Glycemic Control

BACKGROUND

Dysbiosis is related to changes in the composition and behaviour of intestinal microbiota, which may contribute to an age-related decline in metabolic and immune system functioning (immune-senescence).

OBJECTIVE

The microbiota-targeted dietary and probiotic interventions have been shown to favorably affect the host health by an enhancement of antioxidant activity, improving immune homeostasis, suppression of chronic inflammation, regulation of metabolism and prevention of insulin resistance.

RESULTS

In our study, the use of specific probiotics strains improved the serum concentration of glycemic markers, thereby promoting better overall health.

CONCLUSION

Probiotics may help correct defects in the gut microbial environment improving metabolic parameters, such as blood sugar levels, glycosylated hemoglobin and a decrease in body weight.

Gender medicine: the impact of probiotics on male patients

PURPOSE

Numerous studies in the literature confirm the importance of the use of probiotics in inflammatory states of the prostate in humans. Our pilot study aimed to test probiotics strains ability to improve urinary bacterial load in male subjects.

METHODS

Twenty healthy men aged 55-65 years, with recurrent urinatory infections were enrolled and randomized into 2 groups. Urine culturing to detect Enterobacteriaceae (Escherichia Coli and Enterococcus faecalis) was performed at baseline and at 12 weeks after the starting of the study.

RESULTS

We found that taking the probiotic reduces the bacterial load of E. coli and E. faecalis in urine cultures. The use of the probiotic in these inflammatory states does not affect the change in weight in the tested subjects.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data confirm and improve the main results reported in the scientific literature on the importance of taking probiotics in prostatitis.

Effect of probiotics on the occurrence of nutrition absorption capacities in healthy children: a randomized double-blinded placebo-controlled pilot study

OBJECTIVE

Recent advances in the translational research showed that dietary nutrients have critical importance to the microbioma balance in the gastrointestinal tract. Therefore, the alteration of the intestinal microbiota in order to achieve, restore, and maintain favorable balance in the ecosystem, and the activity of microorganisms present in the gastrointestinal tract is necessary for the improved health condition of the host. The objective of this translational study was to evaluate, in a pediatric population, the efficacy and safety of prophylactic probiotics for a better nutritional absorption capacity in the view to enhance their overall health and immunity.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 40 pediatric patients between the ages of 14 and 18 years were enrolled in the study and divided under two categories (treated/active group and placebo group). Three-time points clinical evaluations were performed: a baseline assessment (Time 0), a second evaluation at 5 weeks after the start of probiotic use (Time 1), and a final evaluation at the timeline after 10 weeks (Time 2). In the initial phase of the study, the recruited subjects underwent a panel of initial T0 clinical tests. For each of the patients, a blood sample was taken in order to evaluate the following biochemical measurements: Vitamin D, Vitamin A, Calcium, Zinc, and Iron. Moreover, an initial nutritional evaluation was carried out through which the nutritionist estimated the body composition of the subject (weight and body mass index), the caloric needs and dietary behaviour of each recruited patient.

RESULTS

Eligible participants were randomized into placebo (n = 20) or treated/active (n = 20) treatment conditions by random allocation using a computerized random number generator, ensuring all investigators remained blind to the treatment distribution. The data were compared within and between groups using statistical methods. The results confirmed that the probiotic supplementation was effective in increasing the overall blood biomarkers levels of vitamins, calcium, and mineral absorption from baseline to 10 weeks of treatment, compared with the placebo.

CONCLUSIONS

Probiotics may be suggested as supplements to improve biomarkers serum concentration if administered for a period of at least ≥ 5 weeks. However, further studies are required for optimal recommendations in patient treatment.

Probiotics May Improve Serum Folate Availability in Pregnant Women: A Pilot Study

BACKGROUND: Probiotics are living microorganisms that confer a health benefit when administered in adequate amounts. There is evidence in the current literature about the importance of probiotic use in pregnancy. The early supplementation of probiotics in the perinatal and postnatal periods seems to have a positive impact on the overall mother’s health and future health of infants. AIM: Our pilot study aimed to test the ability of specific probiotics strains in combination with the kiwi-unique enzyme actinidin to improve the availability of folic acid in 20 pregnant women. METHODS: We investigate 20 pregnant women in early (4–10 weeks) (6 patients), intermedium (11–20 weeks) (6 patients), and late (21–30 weeks) (8 patients) pregnancy. RESULTS: Our findings show that the tested formula promotes increased concentration of serum folate in women’s blood and contributes to the control of blood sugar and body weight, regardless of the gestational period (early, intermediate or late). CONCLUSIONS: Our data support the main results reported in the scientific literature about the importance of probiotics intake in pregnancy.

Proteomics of transforming growth factor β1 (TGF β1) signaling in 184A1 human breast epithelial cells suggests the involvement of casein kinase 2α in TGF β1-dependent p53 phosphorylation at Ser392

AIM

Transforming growth factor β1 (TGF β1) is a potent regulator of breast tumorigenesis. It inhibits proliferation of carcinoma cells, but the strength of its inhibitory action varies for cells from benigh, non-metastatic or metastatic tumors. The aim of this work was to generate a proteome profile of TGF β1 action on non-tumorigenic human breast epithelial cells 184A1, and validate predicted involvement of casein kinase 2α (CK2α), p53 and structure-specific recognition protein-1 (SSRP1).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and mass spectrometry were used to identify TGF β1-regulated proteins in 184A1 human breast immortalized non-tumorigenic cells. 184A1 cells may serve as a model of benign breast neoplasia. These cells were obtained from normal mammary tissue, were immortalized but are not malignant, and were obtained from the American Type Culture Collection. The systemic analysis was performed by using the Cytoscape tool. Transfection of cells with CK2α construct and small interfering RNAs to CK2α and SSRP1 were used to assess an impact of CK2α and SSRP1 on phosphorylation of the p53 and cell proliferation.

RESULTS

Proliferation of 184A1 cells was transiently inhibited by TGF β1. We identified 100 and 47 unique proteins which changed their expression and/or ³⁵S-incorporation, respectively, upon treatment with TGF β1 for 2 h, 8 h or 24 h. Cell proliferation, death, migration, and metabolism were among the biological regulatory processes retrieved by the network analysis as affected by the identified proteins. The network analysis suggested that TGF β1 may affect the phosphorylation of p53 at Ser392 by engaging CK2α. This was confirmed by the immunoblotting and cell proliferation assays.

CONCLUSION

We report here the list of 147 TGF β1-regulated proteins in immortalized non-tumorigenic human breast epithelial cells, and show involvement of CK2α in the regulation of p53 Ser392 phosphorylation.

The alteration of stress-related physiological parameters after probiotics administration in oral surgeons with different degrees of surgical experience

PURPOSE

Stress is a multifactorial and complex pathway, gaining growing attention from the healthcare community. Surgeons are subjected to higher levels of stress, due to surgical procedures that are demanding and repetitive; unfortunately, high-stress levels may also cause side-effects, as surgical mistakes. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of specific probiotics strains formula on stress levels in oral and maxillofacial surgeons, to improve their quality of life.

METHODS

We have investigated the hormonal (salivary Cortisol; sC), immune (salivary Immunoglobulin A; sIgA) and cardiovascular (Heart rate, HR, and systolic blood pressure, SBP) responses induced by stress conditions in 40 oral surgeons, randomly selected and allocated, according to their experience level, in three categories: senior, expert, and junior.

RESULTS

The results described how the number of heartbeats/ minute and SBP are slightly raised in all surgeons at different timepoints. Such data allow us to assess that work-related stress can induce an increase in cardiovascular parameters, even if they are not significantly modified by the use of probiotics. On the other hand, our data indicate that 10 weeks of probiotic integration may induce the improvement of other stress-related physiological parameters in oral surgeons with different degrees of surgical experience, such as the salivary cortisol levels, even under stress conditions. Moreover, in the test group (probiotics administration), the immunoglobulin levels were higher than the control (placebo administration) group: this happens as a consequence of the regular use of probiotics, which may induce an increased number of IgA producing cells.

DISCUSSION

Our data indicated that 10 weeks of probiotics-enriched diet modify some stress-related physiological parameters in oral surgeons with different degrees of surgical experience, but it does not impact on the overall cardiovascular risk.

Factors influencing the release of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) during thermal processing of electronic waste

The release of potentially toxic elements as airborne fine particulates is a significant environmental risk associated with recycling e-waste. Some of these may redeposit near emission sites or be transported over long distances causing wide-spread pollution. With an aim to identify key factors affecting particulate emissions, we report novel investigations on the adsorptive capture of particulate matter (PM) released during low temperature pyrolysis (600 °C; 15 min) of waste printed circuit boards (PCBs). A significant proportion of the released particulates (5.3 to 37%) were captured by adsorbents located downstream and in close proximity to the emitting source. Data was collected for four different PCBs and three adsorbents: alumina, silica-gel and activated carbon. With sizes ranging from nanoparticles to over 10 µm, adsorbed particulates were present as fines, spheres, oblongs, clusters and larger particles with no specific shape. Of the 24 elements identified initially in waste PCBs, only 14 were detected in released particulates: major PTEs- Zn, Sn, Pb and Cu (up to 400 ppm); minor PTEs- Ni, Mn, Cd, Cr and Ba (up to 10 ppm); trace PTEs- Co, In, Bi, Be and Sb (up to 1 ppm). Key factors influencing the release of PTEs during thermal processing were identified as basic elemental characteristics, densities, melting points, vapor pressures, initial concentrations, local bonding and mechanical strength. These results show that the presence of low melting point/high vapour pressure elements (Zn, Pb, Sn) should be minimised for a significant reduction in PTE emissions during e-waste processing.

Efficacy of Fluorescence Technology vs Conventional Oral Examination for the Early Detection of Oral Pre-Malignant Lesions. A Clinical Comparative Study

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Oral cancer is one of the most common malignancies that affect human beings across the world and early detection of oral cancer is believed to reduce the morbidity significantly. Fluorescence diagnosis is emerging as a promising method in the differentiation of cancerous lesions and thus helping in the determination of resolution for the surgical resection of affected area of malignancy very accurately. The aim of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of an autofluorescence hand held device (OralID) to detect oral premalignant lesions.

METHODS

98 potentially high-risk oral cancer patients were divided into two groups (n=49/group). Both the groups were first examined by conventional oral examination under white light and oral findings were noted. Subjects under group B were further examined under fluorescence light through hand held device, i.e. OralID. After the examinations, a surgical biopsy sample was taken from the suspected lesions under local anaesthesia from both the groups to confirm the diagnosis through histopathological analysis.

RESULTS

The positive potential malignant lesions (PMLs) observed in Group A when compared with biopsy reporting was 89.47% true positive while in Group B was 95.24%. The sensitivity reported of Group A was 89.47% and Group B was 97.56%. We observed 8.09% more sensitivity and 11.36% more specificity when we incorporate adjunctive the fluorescence examination using OralID.

CONCLUSION

Results from this study suggests that OralID is a true adjunct to conventional oral examination in detecting early potential malignant changes in subjects visiting for regular dental check-up.

Effects of sea salt rinses on subjects undergone to oral surgery: a single blinded randomized controlled trial

PURPOSE

It has been customary to explain the dentally beneficial effects of xylitol and certain other natural compound as lysozyme and seas salt in terms of microbiological effects only. Several studies have tested the use of natural ingredients, alcohol and fluoride free, in mouthwashes. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a combined mouthwash formulation containing natural antibiofilm agents in oral care wound healing after routinely oral surgery (extraction) procedures.

METHODS

Patients were assigned following a blinded randomized controlled trial and divided into two groups, an experimental group (I = 15) and a control (placebo) group (II = 15). Any infectious complications, wound healing, plaque accumulation in the stitches, and presence of trismus and inflammation were evaluated at ten and thirty days after extraction procedure. Pain and swelling were evaluated using the well-known visual analogue scale (VAS) scale throughout study period following extraction. The mean difference in Pre and Post values were compared among the groups. The change in pre-post score was analyzed using the paired t test.

RESULTS

An appreciable wound healing was seen in the experimental group when compared to the control sites, with no reported adverse effects. Four weeks postoperative patient's satisfaction level, to subjective and objective outcome measurements in documenting the result of a mouthwash treatment showed an interesting difference between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Since combined mouthwash formulations, containing natural/bioactive substances, could provide a cheap, safe and acceptable alternative in oral care, further studies will also be required to study these effects and their mechanism of action in detail.

Oral probiotics influence oral and respiratory tract infections in pediatric population: a randomized double-blinded placebo-controlled pilot study

OBJECTIVE

Acute oral and respiratory tract infections (RTIs) are highly present in the general population, and they represent one of the most impacting causes of morbidity and mortality every year. The aim of our study was to assess the clinical impact of oral probiotics on acute oral and respiratory tract infections affecting paediatric patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This is a randomized, double-blinded placebo-controlled clinical study, where probiotics have been compared with placebo in a double-blinded investigation. 40 subjects with a recent clinical history reporting oral and respiratory tract infections were randomly selected and assigned to control (n=20) or the probiotics (n=20) group. During the 3 months before the starting, all subjects were assessed with several salivary examinations.

RESULTS

We found significant differences in the incidence of oral and respiratory tract infections between control and probiotic group, with a marked reduction of oral and respiratory tract infections episodes in the probiotic group. Salivary examinations gave similar results in both the groups, however, despite the salivary flow, viscosity and buffering were similar, on the contrary, pH values were found to be more alkaline in patients of probiotic group.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed the main positive effects related to a supplementation with probiotics in order to prevent or reduce the incidence of infections onset in oral and respiratory tracts without any drugs-related adverse effects.

Diffuse, fracturing systemic skeletal histiocytosis of unknown type: a novel metabolic bone disease

We describe a novel disease of diffuse skeletal histiocytosis associated with multiple fragility fractures and high osteoclast activity. Clinical, radiographic, biochemical, genetic, and histopathological investigations were performed to characterize the diagnosis of an Asian man who presented with hip fracture and diffuse skeletal lytic lesions. After excluding malignancy and other common metabolic bone diseases, open bone biopsy yielded several pathological samples all showing extensive skeletal histiocytosis likely to explain the diffuse axial and appendicular lytic lesions. Rare disorders such as Langerhans histiocytosis, Erdheim-Chester disease, and diffuse cystic skeletal angiomatosis were excluded through careful pathological examination and lack of CD1a and S-100 staining. Whole exome sequencing did not yield diagnostic findings to explain this likely acquired disease. High markers of osteoclast activity suggested excessive focal bone resorption but normalized after zoledronic acid treatment. A novel disease of skeletal histiocytosis with high bone turnover is differentiated from other histiocytic and lytic skeletal diseases.

Probiotics Efficacy on Oxidative Stress Values in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Randomized Double-Blinded Placebo-Controlled Pilot Study

BACKGROUND

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), which include Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), are described as a chronic inflammation of the small intestine and colon, caused by a dysregulated immune response to host intestinal microbiota in genetically susceptible subjects.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to compare probiotic therapy versus placebo in Oxidative Stress Values and clinical features in patients affected by IBD.

METHOD

Forty (40) patients previously diagnosed for IBD were recruited and randomized to receive probiotics (test group, n=20) or placebo (control group, n=20) administered for 90 days. Subjects in both the groups were assessed for overall oxidant ability (d-ROMs test) and for the antioxidant response (BAP test): data were reported at baseline, after 1 and 3 months. Additional data from anamnesis and haematological investigation were also reported during the study.

RESULTS

d-ROM assay clearly showed that the values observed in the test group were significantly improved, leading to oxidative stress values which are not pathological. The test group showed increasing BAP values, thus confirming the overall improvements of patients 'health following administration of probiotics.

CONCLUSION

Oral administration of the specific probiotics demonstrated its efficacy and safety on patients affected by IBD.

Probiotic Nutrition for Gastrointestinal Health Modulations in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Placebo-Controlled Clinical Study (P20-021-19)

Objectives

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), which include Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), are described as a chronic inflammation of the small intestine and colon, caused by a dysregulated immune response to host intestinal microbiota in genetically susceptible subjects.

The aim of this study was to compare probiotic therapy versus placebo in Oxidative Stress Values and clinical features in patients affected by IBD.

Methods

40 patients previously diagnosed for IBD were recruited and randomized to receive probiotics (test group, n = 20) or placebo (control group, n = 20) administered for 90 days. Subjects in both the groups were assessed for overall oxidant ability (d-ROMs test) and for the antioxidant response (BAP test): data were reported at baseline, after 1 and 3 months. Additional data from anamnesis and haematological investigation were also reported during the study.

Results

d-ROM assay clearly showed that the values observed in the test group were significantly improved (436 ± 25 to 345 ± 29), leading to oxidative stress values, which are not pathological. The test group showed increasing BAP values (1740 ± 125 to 2150 ± 125), thus confirming the overall improvements of patient's health following administration of probiotics.

Conclusions

Oral administration of the multi strain probiotics demonstrated its efficacy and safety on patients affected by IBD.

Funding Sources

There is no funding source.

Anti-calculus efficacy of Periogen® oral rinse in gingivitis patients

Dental biofilm is a complex, organized microbial community that is the primary etiologic factor for plaque, the most frequently occurring oral contamination for gingivitis, dental caries and periodontal diseases. In dentistry, calculus is a form of hardened dental plaque, caused by precipitation of calcium (Ca) and phosphorous (P) ions deposited from saliva and gingival crevicular fluid. Although the dental biofilm cannot be eliminated, it can be controlled with comprehensive mechanical and chemotherapeutic oral hygiene practices. Chemotherapeutic agents have difficulty penetrating the polysaccharide matrix to reach and affect the microorganisms. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the anti-calculus efficiency of a mouthwash containing an association of sodium tripolyphosphate, tetrapotassium pyrophosphate, sodium bicarbonate and citric acid in patients affected with gingivitis.

Probiotics Improve Urogenital Health in Women

BACKGROUND

Urogenital recurrent infections represent a global medical issue in the world, affecting millions of women because of dramatic shifts in bacterial composition and concentrations in response to numerous endogenous and exogenous factors. Urogenital microbiota forms a mutually beneficial relationship with their host and has a major impact on health and disease.

AIM

This study aimed to compare probiotic therapy versus placebo in Oxidative Stress Values (OSVs) and histological features in urogenital infections in female patients.

METHODS

Forty (n = 40) patients diagnosed with recurrent urogenital infections were recruited to be treated as test group (n = 20), receiving Probiotics, and a control group (n = 20), receiving looking similar placebo, both for 90 days. Both the groups were assessed for total oxidant capacity (d-ROMs test) and biological antioxidant potential as iron-reducing activity (BAP test) at baseline, after 1 and 3 months. Histological changes on inner vaginal mucosa were also investigated, during the entire study.

RESULTS

d-ROM assay clearly showed that the values of the test group were significantly different, thus leading the general health conditions from a state of high oxidative stress to low oxidative stress levels. Increasing of BAP values were more significant, and clinically relevant, in probiotic test group over time.

CONCLUSION

Our pilot study gave interesting and promising elements to confirm the safety and effectiveness of oral probiotics in preventing/reducing the recurrent urogenital infections by an overall modification of inner vaginal microbiota.

Microbiological results of improvement in periodontal condition by administration of oral probiotics

Oral bacteria that degrade sulphur-containing amino acids (cysteine, cystine, and methionine) produce volatile sulphur compounds (VSCs = hydrogen sulphide, methyl mercaptan, and dimethyl sulphide) highly correlated with halitosis. When these bacteria are given the right environment, i.e. periodontal disease, cariogenic biofilm or food source they can grow in number very quickly and will start to convert proteins to VSC that, together with volatile fatty acids are largely responsible for oral malodor. Recently, the prevention of dental caries and periodontal diseases using various probiotics has been attempted. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of probiotics based on in vitro analysis, such as antibacterial activity, and to evaluate the neutralizing effect of probiotics on halitosis, the levels of VSCs were measured by gas chromatography. .

Clinical results of improvement in periodontal condition by administration of oral probiotics

Dental plaque-related diseases (cavities, gingivitis, periodontitis and halitosis) have been traditionally controlled by mechanical non-specific removal of plaque. However, many novel treatment approaches aim to inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria or to remove their toxins. Probiotics are viable microorganisms which, when administered in adequate amounts, provide a health benefit to the host. Recently, probiotics have been applied as new tools for the improvement of dental health. They have been used to substitute existing antibiotic treatments due to increased resistant bacteria. Probiotics not only have antibacterial activity, but they also have inhibitory effects on the reappearance of oral pathogenic bacteria. The aim of this study was to assess the clinical effect of the administration of probiotics agents in the treatment of mild to moderate periodontitis.

Diastereoselectivity in the Aza-Michael Reaction of Chiral α-Methylbenzylamines with α,β-Unsaturated Carbonyl Compounds

The aza-Michael reaction of (S)-(–)- and (R)-(+)-α-methylbenzylamines with trans-cinnamaldehyde and other α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compounds occurs with 52–98% diastereoselectivity (de); however, in the reaction with crotonaldehyde, the de is lower (20–38%). In the products obtained from the reaction with α,β-unsaturated aldehydes, the de could be determined on the basis of the relative intensities of the aldehydic protons of the two diastereomers. Theoretical investigations of the reaction of (S)-(–)-α-methylbenzylamine with trans-cinnamaldehyde at the DFT (B3LYP/6-31+G*) level reveal that the diastereomer formed from the attack of the amine on the Re face is thermodynamically more stable. The calculations also show that the aldehydic proton of this diastereomer is expected to be more deshielded, which on the basis of the 1H NMR spectrum is the major product.

High temperature investigations on optimising the recovery of copper from waste printed circuit boards

High temperature pyrolysis investigations were carried out on waste printed circuit boards (PCBs) in the temperature range 800-1000°C under inert conditions, with an aim to determine optimal operating conditions for the recovery of copper. Pyrolysis residues were characterized using ICP-OES analysis, SEM/EDS and XRD investigations. Copper foils were successfully recovered after pyrolysis at 800°C for 10-20 min; the levels of Pb and Sn present were found to be quite low and these were generally present near the foil edges. The relative proportions of Pb and Sn became progressively higher at longer heating times due to enhanced diffusion of these molten metals in solid copper. While a similar behaviour was observed at 900°C, the pyrolysis at 1000°C resulted in copper forming Cu-Sn-Pb alloys; copper foils could no longer be recovered. Optimal conditions were identified for the direct recovery of copper from waste PCBs with minimal processing. This approach is expected to make significant contributions towards enhancing material recovery, process efficiency and the environmental sustainability of recycling e-waste. Pyrolysis at lower temperatures, short heating times, coupled with reductions in process steps are expected to significantly reduce energy consumption and pollution associated with the handling and processing of waste PCBs.

Cognitive deficits due to thermal stress: An exploratory study on soldiers in deserts

Background

It is well known that environmental factors play an important role in human performance. High temperature and humidity particularly impair mental performance by altering brain neurochemistry and electrolyte disturbance which in turn affect one's overall efficiency. While the physiological responses to environmental heat have been well established, it is less clear about its impact on cognition. Study aims to investigate the impact of thermal strain on cognition.

Methods

One hundred (100) healthy soldiers aged between 20 and 30 years who had spent minimum of one year in desert conditions prior to their induction in the study formed sample of the study. The subjects were evaluated on memory and on cognitive functions twice i.e. in the month of February and June. The data so generated was analyzed by appropriate statistical methods.

Results

The mean age of the subjects were 25.8 yrs. There was a significant decline in cognitive performance in hot climate as compared to normal weather on Post graduate Institute (PGI) memory scale (P < 0.05). The effect was more marked for tests requiring sustained attention, concentration, psychomotor performance, verbal memory and tests of executive function.

Conclusion

The present study is the first study to be conducted in actual desert conditions. Findings revealed a detrimental impact of thermal stress on the cognitive performance of soldiers in deserts.

A novel approach for reducing toxic emissions during high temperature processing of electronic waste

A novel approach is presented to capture some of the potentially toxic elements (PTEs), other particulates and emissions during the heat treatment of e-waste using alumina adsorbents. Waste PCBs from mobile phones were mechanically crushed to sizes less than 1mm; their thermal degradation was investigated using thermo-gravimetric analysis. Observed weight loss was attributed to the degradation of polymers and the vaporization of organic constituents and volatile metals. The sample assembly containing PCB powder and adsorbent was heat treated at 600°C for times ranging between 10 and 30min with air, nitrogen and argon as carrier gases. Weight gains up to ∼17% were recorded in the adsorbent thereby indicating the capture of significant amounts of particulates. The highest level of adsorption was observed in N₂ atmosphere for small particle sizes of alumina. SEM/EDS results on the adsorbent indicated the presence of Cu, Pb, Si, Mg and C. These studies were supplemented with ICP-OES analysis to determine the extent of various species captured as a function of operating parameters. This innovative, low-cost approach has the potential for utilization in the informal sector and/or developing countries, and could play a significant role in reducing toxic emissions from e-waste processing towards environmentally safe limits.

Orthodontic forces modulate insulin-like growth factor binding protein-5 changes in gingival crevicular fluid

Orthodontic tooth movement results from the response of the periodontal tissue to orthodontic force, which leads to modeling and remodeling of the surrounding alveolar bone. The response is considered to occur through the activation of specific signaling pathways, many of which are known, all acting to ultimately result in tooth movement. Much is known about the actions of these two cells, and the signaling pathways that affect them, both in bone and orthodontic literature, however, to date, little work has been carried out to examine the effect of the insulin-like growth factor binding proteins (IGFBP) in orthodontics. Therefore, we investigated the presence of IGFBP-5 in the gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) of 6 healthy subjects, and assessed the effects of orthodontic treatment on the levels and molecular state of this protein.

Accelerated antidepressant response to lithium augmentation of imipramine

BACKGROUND

Treatment of depressive episode often poses a challenge. Although there are numerous medicines available for its treatment but they all have a lag period of 2-3 weeks before they start showing their result.

AIM

The aim of the present study was to test the hypothesis that an initial lithium-tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) combination has a quicker and better antidepressant effect than standard TCA treatment in unipolar depression.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty unipolar depressed inpatients under lithium-TCA treatment were compared with twenty patients with similar diagnosis treated with TCA-placebo combination. The duration of the study was 4 weeks under double-blind conditions.

RESULTS

Initial lithium-TCA treatment reduced depressive symptoms significantly more than TCA alone. The difference was evident from 1^st week onward and persisted at 4 weeks.

CONCLUSION

Lithium augmentation of TCA at the outset offers a strategy to reduce the lag period of antidepressant action. The choice can be made for those patients who are likely to benefit from long-term prophylaxis.

Osteogenic differentiation and gene expression of dental pulp stem cells under low-level laser irradiation: a good promise for tissue engineering

The effects of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has been the focus of recent studies as being assumed responsible for promoting photostimulatory and photobiomodulatory effects in vivo and in vitro, increasing cell metabolism, improving cell regeneration and invoking an anti-inflammatory response. A positive effect of LLLT on the bone proliferation of some cell types has been observed, but little is known about its effect on dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs). Here, we accurately describe the technical procedure to isolate mesenchymal DPSCs, and assay their osteogenic capacity when irradiated with an LLLT source. These preliminary results show that LLLT irradiation influences the in vitro proliferation of DPSCs and increases the expression of essential proteins for bone formation, although it is necessary to carry out further experiments on other cell types and to uniform the methodological designs.

Photodynamic therapy: a review and its prospective role in the management of oral potentially malignant disorders

With the unreliability of epithelial dysplasia as a predictor to determine the risk of future malignant development, subjectivity associated in evaluating dysplasia by pathologists and paucity of biomarkers that could accurately predict the progression risks in oral potentially malignant disorders (PMDs), eradication of the lesions appears to be the most desirable approach to minimize the risk of invasive cancer formation. Interventions, such as surgery and chemoprevention, have not shown promising long-term results in the treatment of these lesions, and lack of guidelines and general consensus on their management has incited much anxiety and doubts in both patients and community clinicians. Topical photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a minimally invasive and minimally toxic technique that in recent years has shown great promise in the management of PMDs. In this review, we describe the historical developments in the field of PDT, its basic mechanisms, as well as related clinical studies, and its challenges in the management of oral PMDs. Based on its high efficacy and low side effects, its high patient acceptance/compliance, the simplicity of the procedure and its minimal pretreatment preparation, topical PDT is believed to have potential to play an important role in the management of PMDs, especially of the low-grade dysplasia.

Non-syndromic oral clefts and risk of cancer: a systematic review

Objective: To discuss the risk of cancer among relatives of individuals with cleft lip and palate (CL/P), as well as the risk of CL/P among relatives of individuals with cancer, since studies published currently have suggested  an increased risk of cancer among relatives of cleft individuals. Design: A systematic literature review was carried out in accordance with the Cochrane Collaboration Group protocol, including literature search strategy, selection of papers through the inclusion and exclusion criteria, data extraction and quality assessment. PubMed, Scopus and ISI - Web of Science databases were systematically searched using the fallowing search strings: “cleft lip and palate” AND “cancer”, “oral clefts” AND “cancer” and “orofacial clefts” AND “cancer”. Results: From 653 studies accessed, 8 comprised the final sample: 6 investigating CL/P index cases and their family history of cancer and 2 investigating individuals with cancer and their family history for CL/P. The sample sizes were not homogeneous. Oral clefts, the type of cancer and the degree of kinship family were not categorized in all studies. Leukemia, breast cancer and colon cancer were the most cited types, even as first-and-second degree relatives. Conclusions: An increased risk of cancer among relatives of cleft individuals could not be entirely confirmed. However, studies with this specific purpose suggest that first-and-second degrees relatives of cleft individuals have some types of cancer more often than unexposed families, highlighting that future studies should expand their samples to investigate possible common molecular mechanisms that allow relating oral clefts and cancer.

Knowledge and awareness of palliative medicine amongst students of a rural dental college in India

Objectives:

To determine the current knowledge and awareness among undergraduate dental students in a rural dental college regarding palliative medicine.

Materials and Methods:

This cross-sectional observational study was conducted on students of a rural dental college located in western India. They were asked to fill a pre-designed questionnaire. The variables assessed were their knowledge and awareness towards palliative medicine and a dentist role in palliative team.

Results:

A total of 150 students participated. The male:female ratio was 1:2; mean age of respondent was 20.66 ± 1.01 years. On an average, 59.23% were correct and 40.67% were incorrect for knowledge about palliative medicine, while 81.55% were correct and 18.45% were incorrect regarding awareness about oral care in palliative medicine.

Conclusion:

Results indicate that students had good awareness and perception level about awareness of oral care in palliative treatment.

Periodontitis: A risk for delivery of premature labor and low-birth-weight infants

Periodontitis is a destructive inflammatory disease of the supporting tissues of the teeth and is caused by specific microorganisms or group of specific microorganisms. The association of periodontal infection with organ systems like cardiovascular system, endocrine system, reproductive system, and respiratory system makes periodontal infection a complex multiphase disease. Inflamed periodontal tissues produce significant amounts of proinflammatory cytokines, mainly interleukin 1-beta (IL-1β), IL-6, prostaglandin E2, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), which may have systemic effects on the host. Low birth weight, defined as birth weight less than 2,500 g, continues to be a significant public health issue in both developed and developing countries. Research suggests that the bacteria that cause inflammation in the gums can actually get into the bloodstream and target the fetus, potentially leading to premature labor and low-birth-weight (PLBW) babies. One reasonable mechanism begins with deleterious effects of endotoxins released from Gram-negative bacteria responsible for periodontal disease. Hence periodontal disease appears to be an independent risk factor for PLBW and there is a need to expand preventive measures for pregnant women in harmonization with the gynecological and dental professions.