ABSTRACT
Background: Galectin 3 (Gal?3) has diverse functions critical in cancer biology including cell proliferation, apoptosis, evasion of immune responses and angiogenesis. The expression of Gal?3 is heterogeneous in normal and neoplastic tissues. In oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and oral leukoplakia (OL), both increased and decreased expressions of Gal?3 were elicited in numerous studies. Aims: To evaluate, compare and correlate the immunohistochemical expression of Gal?3 in OSCC, OL and normal oral mucosa. Settings and Design: The study was conducted at the Department of Oral Pathology and Microbiology at PMS College of Dental Science and Research, Vattapara, Thiruvananthapuram. This is a retrospective analytical study. Methods and Material: Clinically diagnosed and histopathologically confirmed cases of OSCC (n = 21), OL (n = 21), and normal oral mucosa (n = 21) were included in the study. Paraffin?embedded tissues were subjected to immunohistochemical analysis for Gal?3 expression. Gal?3 staining expression, staining distribution and cellular localisation were evaluated. All sampled categories were compared using immunohistochemical scoring analysis such as the H?score, labelling index (LI), immunoreactive score (IRS) and staining intensity (SI). Statistical Analysis: The results were statistically analysed using multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) within and among the groups. Results and Conclusion: The statistical inferences obtained found that the H?score could be used as a guideline for better differentiation between the groups and among the groups. The P value obtained was < 0.0125 and was found to be significant. The observation in our study shows that the immunohistochemical expression of Gal?3 gradually decreased from normal oral mucosa to OL to OSCC.
ABSTRACT
Aim: This study aims to investigate oral hygiene and frequency of oral cleaning in children up to 5 years in relation to mother related factors. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study of 250 children aged 1-5 years in Chennai, Tamil Nadu was implemented. Mothers answered questions about their own oral self-care and their children’s oral hygiene. Chi-square test and logistic regression analysis was done. Results: Twice daily oral cleaning was reported for 95% of all children . 92% of the mothers believed it necessary to rinse the mouth between meals and to clean the gum pads even if teeth have not erupted. Oral hygiene was seen to be better in children whose mother’s own brushing frequency was high. It was also seen that mothers with a higher educational level had a better attitude towards their child’s oral hygiene care. Conclusion: To improve oral hygiene in early childhood, more emphasis should be placed on mother’s own tooth brushing practice and their skills in their children’s oral hygiene.