Journal of Chemical Health Risks (Islamic Azad University, Iran)
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Correlation of Serum Ferritin Levels with Severity of Preeclampsia: A Randomized Controlled Comparative Study
Background: Preeclampsia is a leading hypertensive disorder of pregnancy that contributes substantially to maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. Serum ferritin, an acute-phase reactant and indicator of oxidative stress, may correlate with the severity of disease and serve as an accessible biomarker. Aim: To evaluate the correlation between serum ferritin levels and severity of preeclampsia among pregnant women in a tertiary-care hospital. Methods: A randomized controlled comparative study was conducted in the Tertiary care hospital,Dharwad, between January 2021 and April 2023. One hundred fifty antenatal women were divided equally into three groups: normotensive controls, mild preeclampsia, and severe preeclampsia. Serum ferritin was measured by ELISA. Data were analyzed using ANOVA, Pearson correlation, and ROC analysis. Results: Mean serum ferritin levels were 43.2 ± 12.5 ng/mL in controls, 95.8 ± 22.6 ng/mL in mild preeclampsia, and 149.6 ± 33.4 ng/mL in severe preeclampsia (p < 0.001). Serum ferritin correlated strongly with mean arterial pressure (r = 0.74, p < 0.001). ROC analysis showed AUC = 0.91 (95% CI 0.86–0.97). Conclusion: Serum ferritin levels rise proportionately with disease severity and can be used as a simple biomarker for early prediction and monitoring of preeclampsia
Effect of Cryotreated Sodium Hypochlorite on the Fracture Resistance of Endodontically Treated Teeth- An In Vitro Study
Objective
To evaluate and compare the impact of cryotreated sodium hypochlorite on the fracture resistance of endodontically treated teeth.
Methods
Forty-two extracted human single-rooted mandibular premolars were sectioned horizontally standardized to a root length of 14 mm. Each tooth was wrapped in 0.15 mm aluminum foil, embedded in self-polymerizing resin, and repositioned in light-body silicone impression material. Samples were divided into two groups (n=21) based on irrigation protocol:
Group A: Sodium hypochlorite at room temperature
Group B: Cryotreated sodium hypochlorite (2.5°C)
Chemo-mechanical preparation was performed in both the groups using ProTaper Gold files (F3, 30/.09). Samples were kept at 37°C and 100% humidity before fracture testing using a Universal Testing Machine. A metal indenter applied an increasing load (1 mm/min) until fracture. The maximum load sustained before fracture was recorded and analyzed using the Shapiro-Wilk and Mann-Whitney U tests.
Results
Group A exhibited significantly higher fracture resistance than Group B, indicating that cryotreated sodium hypochlorite negatively affected dentin strength.
Conclusion
Cryotreated sodium hypochlorite adversely affects dentin’s mechanical properties, leading to reduced fracture resistance. Its clinical use should be approached with caution, and further studies are warranted to determine safe application protocols
Association between Visceral Adiposity and Cognitive Function: A Cross-Sectional Analysis
Background: Visceral adiposity has been increasingly recognized as a metabolically active fat depot linked to systemic inflammation and vascular dysfunctionfactors that may contribute to cognitive decline. However, evidence on its direct association with specific cognitive domains remains limited.
Objective: To examine the relationship between visceral adiposity and cognitive performance across key domains, including attention, perception, executive function, and working memory.
Methods: In this cross-sectional study, visceral adiposity was assessed using standardized anthropometric and body composition measures. Cognitive performance was evaluated through a series of validated online tasks assessing attentional, perceptual, executive, and working memory functions. Statistical analysis included calculation of mean values and standard deviations, and group comparisons were performed using an unpaired t-test.
Results: Higher levels of visceral adiposity were associated with significantly lower performance in multiple cognitive domains. Participants with greater visceral fat demonstrated reduced attentional accuracy, slower perceptual processing, and poorer executive functioning and working memory scores (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: The findings suggest a significant inverse association between visceral adiposity and cognitive performance. These results highlight the potential impact of excess visceral fat on cognitive health and underscore the importance of early lifestyle interventions aimed at reducing visceral adiposity to preserve cognitive function
Reframing Oral Epithelial Dysplasia as a Public Health Priority: Diagnostic Advances, Molecular Insights, and Preventive Strategies
Oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs) represent a significant public health concern due to their measurable risk of malignant transformation into oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), one of the most prevalent cancers in low- and middle-income countries. The global burden of oral cancer, largely driven by tobacco, alcohol, and areca nut consumption, underscores the necessity for early detection, effective screening, and evidence-based management of precursor lesions. Histopathological assessment for the presence and grading of oral epithelial dysplasia (OED) remains the current gold standard for predicting malignant transformation; however, this approach faces challenges of subjectivity, variability, and limited reproducibility across observers and regions. Several grading systems such as those proposed by Smith and Pindborg (1969), the Ljubljana classification, and successive World Health Organization (WHO) iterations (1978, 2005, 2017, 2022) have attempted to standardize diagnosis, yet inconsistencies persist. These limitations can directly affect early detection programs, delay intervention, and increase the disease burden at the community level. Hence, improving diagnostic objectivity is not merely a laboratory refinement but a critical public health goal.
Recent advances in molecular markers including p53, p63, Ki-67, β-catenin, and E-cadherin, along with genomic profiling through next-generation sequencing (NGS), have enhanced understanding of dysplasia progression and its molecular drivers. Incorporating such biomarkers into community screening models could significantly strengthen early cancer risk stratification and surveillance programs. Furthermore, artificial intelligence (AI) and deep learning (DL)-based systems show promise for large-scale, low-cost, and automated detection of dysplastic changes, particularly in resource-limited settings.
This review examines the evolution of grading systems for OED, emphasizing their implications for public health policy, screening efficiency, and preventive oncology. By integrating histopathological evaluation with molecular diagnostics and AI-driven technologies, healthcare systems can move toward a more standardized, objective, and scalable diagnostic framework. Strengthening these integrative diagnostic pathways is essential not only for clinical precision but also for reducing the incidence, mortality, and socioeconomic impact of oral cancer at the population level
Diagnostic Performance of Liquid Biopsy Compared to Tissue Biopsy in Lung Cancer Genomics: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Background: Tissue biopsy is the standard method for genomic profiling in lung cancer, but it is invasive, may yield insufficient tissue, and often fails to capture tumor heterogeneity. Liquid biopsy, particularly through circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), provides a minimally invasive alternative with the potential for real-time molecular monitoring.
Objective: To evaluate the diagnostic performance of liquid biopsy compared to tissue biopsy for detecting genomic mutations in lung cancer through systematic review and meta-analysis.
Methods: A systematic literature search of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library was conducted for studies published between January 2010 and October 2024. Studies comparing liquid biopsy with tissue biopsy in lung cancer patients were included. A random-effects model was used to pool sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR). Heterogeneity was assessed using the I² statistic.
Results: Thirty-two studies involving 6,210 lung cancer patients were included. Liquid biopsy demonstrated a pooled sensitivity of 0.78 (95% CI: 0.72-0.83) and specificity of 0.93 (95% CI: 0.89-0.96). The diagnostic odds ratio was 45.3 (95% CI: 28.1-73.0). Mutation-specific concordance was highest for EGFR (85%), followed by ALK (78%), KRAS (65%), and ROS1 (59%). Heterogeneity was moderate (I² = 56%). NGS-based liquid biopsy platforms showed higher diagnostic accuracy compared to PCR-based methods.
Conclusion: Liquid biopsy demonstrates high specificity and moderate sensitivity relative to tissue biopsy and serves as a valuable complementary tool for genomic profiling in lung cancer. It is particularly useful when tissue sampling is challenging and for monitoring treatment response and resistance mutations. However, it should not fully replace tissue biopsy until further improvements enhance its sensitivity. Future advancements should focus on assay standardization and prospective clinical integration
From Paper to Pixels: Leveraging AI-Enabled Digital Feedback Systems to Bridge Maternal Healthcare Equity Gaps in Tribal India - A Case Study from Odisha\u27s First Referral Units
Background: Equitable maternal healthcare delivery in tribal-dominated regions remains a critical challenge to achieving universal health coverage. This study investigated patient satisfaction disparities and proposed an AI-enabled digital transformation framework for first-referral units (FRUs) in resource-limited settings.
Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted in the Obstetrics and Gynecology department of a tribal-dominated FRU in the Gajapati district of Odisha (November 2024-April 2025). Using consecutive sampling, 320 women (89 tribal, 231 non-tribal) were surveyed across ten service domains using a culturally adapted instrument. Statistical analyses included independent t-tests, Pearson’s correlations, multiple linear regression, and temporal trend analysis. Digital system requirements were derived through iterative stakeholder consultations and technical feasibility assessments.
Results: Overall satisfaction was high (M=4.11±0.38, 95%CI:4.07-4.15) with no significant tribal-non-tribal differences (t(318) =0.634, p=0.527, d=0.079), indicating equitable service delivery. Regression analysis (R²=0.628, p<0.001) identified doctor communication (β=0.312, p<0.001) and staff behaviour (β=0.248, p<0.001) as primary satisfaction predictors. Inter-domain correlations revealed strong associations between interpersonal factors and overall satisfaction (r=0.682 for doctor communication). Temporal analysis showed marginal improvement trends (+0.67% monthly, p=0.382). Critical gaps emerged in waiting times (registration=3.85; consultation=3.92) across both populations.
Proposed Digital Solution: An AI-enabled PSS framework incorporating Natural Language Processing for tribal dialects, voice-based interfaces addressing 32% low-literacy rates, edge computing for intermittent connectivity, and machine learning algorithms for predictive analytics and real-time pattern recognition was conceptualized.
Conclusions: Although current FRU services demonstrate commendable equity in patient satisfaction, systematic inefficiencies persist uniformly across demographic groups. The proposed digital PSS system, leveraging AI for culturally responsive, real-time feedback collection and analysis, offers a scalable model for continuous quality improvement in resource-constrained maternal healthcare settings. The implementation of this system could transform reactive quality assurance into proactive, data-driven healthcare optimization, thereby contributing to the objectives of India’s digital health mission
A Comparative Study to Analyse the Effectiveness of Basal Cisternostomy and Its Impact on the Outcome of Moderate and Severe Head Injury Patients.
Background:
Severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, often resulting in raised intracranial pressure (ICP) and secondary brain injury. While decompressive craniectomy (DC) remains the standard surgical option to relieve ICP, basal cisternostomy (BC) has emerged as a potential alternative aimed at restoring cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) dynamics and improving outcomes. This study compares the effectiveness and outcomes of basal cisternostomy versus decompressive craniectomy in patients with moderate and severe TBI.
Materials and Methods:
A prospective randomized controlled trial was conducted at SRM Medical College Hospital, Chennai, from December 2022 to December 2023. Fifty patients aged 18–65 years with moderate or severe TBI were randomly assigned to the basal cisternostomy group (n=25) or the decompressive craniectomy group (n=25). Demographic data, Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), Marshall CT score, and postoperative variables including duration of ventilation, ICU stay, hospital stay, complications, and Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS) at 3 months were recorded and statistically analyzed using IBM SPSS 20.0.
Results:
The mean postoperative GOS was significantly higher in the BC group (3.44 ± 1.50) compared with the DC group (2.68 ± 1.72; p = 0.010). Mortality was lower in the BC group (20%) than in the decompressive craniectomy group (44%). Patients undergoing basal cisternostomy required shorter ventilator support and ICU stay. Those with severe TBI (GCS < 9) showed better outcomes in the BC group (p = 0.02).
Conclusion:
Basal cisternostomy offers improved functional outcomes and lower mortality compared with decompressive craniectomy in moderate and severe Head injury. However, larger multicenter trials are needed to validate its long-term efficacy and feasibility
Evaluation of the Cytotoxicity of Orthodontic Composite Incorporating Copper and Magnesium Hydroxyapatite Nanoparticles
Introduction: Nanoparticle-enhanced orthodontic adhesives have gained increasing attention for their potential to reduce enamel demineralization and provide antibacterial benefits without compromising material performance. Copper (Cu) and magnesium hydroxyapatite [Mg(OH)₂] nanoparticles, in particular, exhibit promising antimicrobial and biocompatible properties suitable for dental applications. However, integrating these nanoparticles into orthodontic bonding systems necessitates careful evaluation of their biological safety.
Objectives:This study aims to assess the cytotoxicity of Transbond XT adhesive incorporated with Copper (Cu) and Magnesium Hydroxyapatite Mg(OH)2 nanoparticles.
Methods: An orthodontic composite comprising equal proportions of Cu and Mg(OH)2 nanoparticles was synthesized using a hydrothermal method. Cu and Mg(OH)2 nanoparticles were mixed in ethyl alcohol, and the pH was adjusted to 10 - 10.5 with liquor ammonia. The mixture was then added to light-cured orthodontic adhesive (Transbond XT). After ultrasonic treatment and hydrothermal processing, the composite was characterized through SEM, FTIR, and EDAX analyses. The cytotoxicity test was performed on human fibroblast cells using various concentrations of the composite.
Results: SEM analysis revealed distinct surface characteristics. Orthodontic adhesive with Cu and Mg(OH)2 nanoparticles exhibited a smooth surface with rod-like structures. Cu and Mg(OH)2 mixture displayed a coarse, granular surface topography. FTIR confirmed specific functional groups. Peaks indicated the presence of Cu and Mg(OH)2 functional groups within the composite. EDAX analysis yielded quantitative elemental composition. Cytotoxicity assessment demonstrated an increasing cytotoxicity trend with rising particle concentration for all samples. Cell viability consistently above 60% for all concentrations. Notably, fibroblast cell viability at 50% concentration was 87%, indicating cytocompatibility.
Conclusions: The incorporation of Cu and Mg(OH)2 nanoparticles into Transbond XT adhesive yielded a composite with altered surface characteristics. FTIR and EDAX analysis confirmed the presence of specific functional groups and elemental composition. Cytotoxicity assessment indicated that the composite exhibited favorable cell viability, particularly at a 50% concentration, suggesting its potential for cytocompatibility
Kinetic and Solvent Polarity Investigation of Alkaline Hydrolysis of Propyl Caprate in Aqueous Solvent of Acetone
Introduction: The rate of a chemical reaction is significantly influenced not only by the nature of the reactants and products but also by the solvent medium in which the reaction takes place. This phenomenon is known as the kinetic solvent effect. Solvents affect reaction kinetics through several factors such as polarity, dielectric constant, solvation ability, hydrogen bonding, and viscosity. These interactions can stabilize or destabilize the transition state relative to the reactants, thereby either accelerating or retarding the reaction
Objectives: The objective of the research is to determine the medicinal potential of propyl caprate ester. This compound is used in cosmetics and personal care industry as emollient which help to soften and moisture the skin. It is also used in pharmaceutical, serving as recipient to improve the stability and bioavability of active ingredients
Methods: The chemical used are Merck grade and acetone are purified by standard procedure. The ester has been taken and thermo stated for 30 minutes in a conical flask. In a few minutes, 0.5 mI of ester that had been withdrawn and added to organic solvent Now 10 mI of aliquot was withdrawn and put into a flask in which N/10 HCI has been placed already. Now titrate the solution by adding N/10 NaOH from the burette using phenolphthalein as indicator. Similarly again pipette out 5mI of reaction mixture after 5 minutes and repeated the procedure. Repeat the above procedure by withdrawing 5mI of reaction mixture after 15,30,45,60 minute
Results: On the basis of find the different physical and chemical properties of this ester. Specific rate, activation energy and different thermodynamic parameters are reported.
Conclusions:. The hydrolysis of the propyl caprate in water- acetone has been carried out at different composition and different temperature. With increase of solvent fraction, the rate has been found to be decrease which is posssibly due to dielectric values and also due to polarity of less polar solvent of the reaction medi
Spectroscopic and Thermal-Luminescence Behavior of Rare-Earth/Actinide-Doped Glasses for Advanced Optoelectronic Applications
A sample of Er3+ doped fluorochloride glass was prepared by incorporating chlorine (Cl¯) into a fluoride glass (ZBLAN) using the conventional melt quenching technique. The research investigated the chemical stability, thermal stability, and fluorescent properties of the glass by varying the Cl¯ concentration. It was observed that increasing the Cl¯ concentration enhances the luminescent intensity in the infrared region. The strongest luminescent intensity was achieved at a Cl¯ concentration of 15 mol%. Similarly, the study compared the effects of different Er3+ concentrations on the luminescent properties of the fluorochloride glass, identifying 1 mol% Er3+ as the optimal doping concentration. Consequently, the glass composition is denoted as ZBLAN:15Cl, 1Er. Experimental analyses including X-ray diffraction (XRD), absorption spectrum, near-infrared spectrum (NIR), and mid-infrared spectrum (MIR) were conducted to characterize the Er3+ doped fluorochloride glass. The energy level diagram of Er3+ and the infrared luminescence of the sample were thoroughly analyzed, focusing on the excitation at 980 nm. Judd-Ofelt parameters were computed to understand the luminescent behavior. It was observed that Ω2 initially increased and then decreased with varying Cl¯ content in the glass matrix, whereas Ω4 and Ω6 remained relatively stable across different compositions. This variability in Ω2 suggests a change in the crystal field environment around the Er3+ ions due to the introduction of Cl¯. In Er3+ doped fluoride glass, the addition of Cl¯significantly enhances the mid-infrared luminescence intensity. The calculated Judd-Ofelt theoretical parameters indicate that Cl¯ introduction enhances the covalency of the coordination bond with Er3+, thereby reducing local symmetry and boosting the luminescent properties of the fluoride glass. This research on rare earth ion-doped fluorochloride glass provides a theoretical foundation for improving luminescent characteristics and offers valuable insights for the development and application of similar mid-infrared luminescent materials