Publishing your research work: Updated concepts and nuances of few metrics used to assess journal quality.

Authors have a multitude of options for journals for publishing their research. However, their choice is mostly based on academic credits required for promotion, cost of publication, timeliness of process, etc., The purpose of this narrative review is to enlighten the authors about some other journal metrics used to assess journal ranking and quality in international scenario. The main concepts discussed in this paper are the impact factor and cite score. The paper includes an explanation of terms like web of science, journal citation reports, and how they are related to impact factor. This will help the authors to make the right decision about choosing the right journal for publishing their research. Along with the historic concepts we have included the latest updates about changes being made to the journal citation report and impact factor released in 2023 June. Hopefully with the review paper, we will be able to encourage the inclusion of such concepts and curriculum of post-graduation courses considering publishing a paper and choosing a journal are an integral aspect of a researcher's work life.

Hybrid tumor of central giant cell granuloma and trabecular juvenile ossifying fibroma of the mandible: A rare event in the oral cavity with a review on pathogenesis.

ABSTRACT: Hybrid tumors are rare lesions having features of multiple diseases in one lesion. A hybrid tumor of central giant cell granuloma (CGCG) and central ossifying fibroma (COF) shows the presence of microscopically large areas with CGCG character and large areas with COF features inside a single clinical lesion, separated by a transition zone. A rare type of COF is juvenile ossifying fibroma (JOF)-trabecular variant in the mandible. We present a unique and rare case of a hybrid tumor of the CGCG-JOF-trabecular variant in the mandible of a 14-year-old female which initially diagnosed with CGCG. The ambiguous pathogenesis of hybrid tumors and giant cells is reviewed. The goal of this article is to highlight the importance of careful clinical, radiological, and histopathological examination of each case to prevent misdiagnoses and recurrences. Similar and other cases must be reported in order to better understand the interrelationship between these hybrid lesions and their biological behavior.

Genotoxicity in Oral Mucosal Epithelial Cells of Petrol Station Attendants: A Micronucleus Study.

INTRODUCTION: Occupational exposure to petrol derivatives possesses an increased risk of various cancers including that of the oral mucosa. Scientific studies have shown the correlation of micronuclei assay (MN) with the cytogenotoxic changes in petrol station attendants. However, very few have reported the use of MN assay as a promising tool for assessing the impact of smoking in these workers. AIM: To explore the cytogenotoxic damage in exfoliated buccal cells obtained from petrol station attendants and control subjects using the MN assay along with additional effects due to smoking. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study comprised 60 males who were divided into Group I-IV with each having 15 subjects. These subjects were categorized as exposed smokers, exposed nonsmokers, unexposed smoker group, and unexposed nonsmokers. The MN and additional nuclear abnormalities (karyorrhexis [KH], binucleation [BN], pyknosis [P], and karyolysis [KL]) were calculated in PAP-stained slides. RESULTS: Statistically higher mean frequencies of overall nuclear anomalies were observed in petrol pump workers in comparison with the control group. Petrol pump smokers carry the highest nuclear anomalies followed by non-exposed smokers than exposed non-smokers and the count was the least among unexposed non-smoker workers. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: The present study indicated that the petrol pump workers are under higher cytogenotoxic damage. Also, smoking added to the frequency of damage. Thus, MN and other nuclear anomalies are in-vitro reliable biomarker assays available and should be routinely employed as a screening tool in their periodic medical evaluation.

A crude method of DNA extraction and identification from exfoliated human buccal mucosa cells.

BACKGROUND: DNA analysis has a key role in forensic dentistry. However, techniques of DNA extraction and analysis are far from the reach of majority of medical professionals owing to its expensive set up. AIM: The present study was aimed at formulating a crude method of extracting DNA from human buccal mucosa cells using materials commonly available in the laboratory so that the medical professionals could get more exposure to molecular biology techniques. The objectives were to identify the DNA and to assess its purity. METHODS: Buccal mucosa cells from 10 healthy volunteers were taken for DNA extraction following the protocol of cell lysis, purification, and precipitation. DNA was identified using standardized techniques like Diphenylamine test and its purity was assessed using a spectrophotometer. A gel electrophoresis apparatus was also constructed using readily available materials. RESULTS: DNA was extracted from human buccal mucosa cells using a crude method. The standardized tests confirmed the presence of DNA contaminated with proteins. The locally made Gel electrophoresis model exhibited a faint halo around the wells instead of DNA bands. CONCLUSION: DNA extraction from human buccal mucosa cells was made possible using locally available materials and a crude method, but it was not of high purity.

Analysis of stromal mucin in oral epithelial dysplasia & oral squamous cell carcinoma- A histochemical study.

BACKGROUND: Mucins are glycoproteins that act as a selective molecular barrier and its alterations usually accompany the carcinogenesis. AIM: To evaluate the transition of mucins in the grades of oral epithelial dysplasia (OED) and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) using histochemical stains. MATERIALS & METHOD: A total of 66 samples of variable grades of OED and OSCC and each section was stained with PAS, Alcian blue- PAS (AB-PAS) and Aldehyde fuschin - Alcian blue (AF-AB). Mucins pattern and intensity were examined at 5 randomly selected fields on 10x magnification. RESULTS: 1. PAS stain - Predominantly OED and OSCC showed a diffuse pattern with a gradual decrease in intensity in OED and overall a weak intensity in OSCC. 2. AB-PAS stain - Neutral mucins showed gradual increase in its intensity in grades of OED and OSCC with no predominant pattern. The intensity for the acid mucins remains weak in all the grades of OED and OSCC with diffuse distribution, except in higher grades of OED and OSCC. 3. AF- AB stain - For sulphated mucins, in OED a focal and diffuse pattern was observed in OSCC with minimal intensity. The carboxylated mucin was absent in both. CONCLUSION: Mucins undergo change in its pattern and intensity in varying grades of OED/OSCC. Although in GIT and other mucosa, the expression of altered mucin is a recognized factor, seldom research has been done in OED and OSCC. Thus, the present study could be the stepping stone in the exploration of mucinous alteration in OED and OSCC.

Oral Lichen Planus in a Pediatric Patient: A Novel Therapeutic Approach.

Lichen planus is a mucocutaneous disease, predominantly affecting the middle-aged individuals and may be associated with a plethora of signs and symptoms related to the skin, scalp, nails and mucous membranes. The definitive etiology of lichen planus is not yet known and no therapeutic modality has yet been universally accepted. Lichen planus in pediatric patients is a rare phenomenon and its presence in the oral mucosa is even rarer. The aim of this article is to present a rare case of a symptomatic oral lichen planus (OLP) occurring in a 12-year old child that was managed successfully with a novel sequential modality of topical retinoids followed by aloe vera gel application.

Osseous choristoma of submental region: A rare occurrence.

Osseous choristoma is a rare, benign lesion of the oral cavity. This report presents a case of osseous choristoma in the submental region of a 30-year-old female subject. Her chief complaint was a painless swelling in the submental region. Panoramic radiography showed a well-defined, round, radiopaque lesion near the inferior border of the left mental region. The lesion was diagnosed as an osseous choristoma based on the histopathological examination of the surgical specimen. This paper is an attempt to bring forward a unique occurrence of osseous choristoma, which would further help the medical fraternity in improvising their knowledge, diagnosis, and treatment of this entity.

Cytomorphometric analysis and morphological assessment of oral exfoliated cells in type 2 diabetes mellitus and healthy individuals: A comparative study.

CONTEXT: Oral exfoliative cytology is a simple, nonaggressive technique that is well accepted by patients. Therefore, it is an attractive option, which aids in the diagnosis and observation of epithelial atypias associated with oral mucosal diseases. AIMS: The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the quantitative and qualitative alterations in exfoliative smears from type 2 diabetics and healthy individuals. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The study includes 30 type 2 diabetics and 30 healthy persons of both sexes. PAP and hematoxylin and eosin (H and E) stained smears were prepared from buccal mucosa (BM), tongue (T), floor of the mouth (FOM), and palate (P). Under a light microscope, 50 clearly defined unfolded epithelial cells were quantitatively evaluated for cellular area (CA), nuclear area (NA), and cellular-to-nuclear area ratio (CA:NA) and assessed for morphological features. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Collected data was manually entered into the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 13.5 for analysis. Student's t-test was used at 95% confidence interval. RESULTS: Quantitative assessment of the overall mean CA was less, mean NA was more, and mean CA:NA was less in diabetics than that in healthy persons at all the four sites. Diabetic oral cells showed qualiative cytoplasmic and nuclear alterations: cytoplasmic vacuoles, karyorrhexis, karyolysis, pyknosis, peri-nuclear halo, binucleation, nuclear vacuoles, inflammation, and microbial colonies. CONCLUSION: Oral cytology from type 2 diabetics is associated with detectable cytomorphological changes with alteration in size of the cell and nucleus, which is site specific, indicating epithelial cell degeneration in cytoplasm and nucleus.

Stromal fibers in oral squamous cell carcinoma: A possible new prognostic indicator?

BACKGROUND: Many studies have been carried out to study the role of extracellular matrix proteins, growth factors and matrix metalloproteinases on tumor invasion. However, literature related to the analysis of connective tissue fibers in varying grades of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is very limited. AIM: To analyze the changes in collagen and elastic fibers in varying grades of (OSCC). SETTINGS AND DESIGN: This retrospective study was carried out using a light and polarizing microscope. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Three sections each were cut from fifty samples of varying grades of OSCC and ten samples of control followed by staining with H and E, Picrosirius-Red and Verhoeff-Van Gieson. Qualitative and quantitative analysis of collagen and elastic fibers were accomplished using set criteria. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Data were entered into the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 13.5 for analysis. RESULTS: A change in colors of collagen fibers was seen on progressing from well to poorly differentiated OSCC. Thin collagen fibers predominantly exhibited greenish yellow, but the thick fibers exhibited a variety of colors. As the grade of OSCC progressed, collagen fibers were loosely packed haphazardly arranged. Statistically insignificant results were obtained for quantitative analysis of collagen and qualitative analysis of elastic fibers. CONCLUSION: The collagen fibers undergo a change in color, orientation and packing in the stroma of varying grades of OSCC. The uniqueness of this study lies in the exploration of elastic fibers in OSCC which has not been done so far.

Bacterial Viability within Dental Calculus: An Untrodden, Inquisitive Clinico-Patho- Microbiological Research.

INTRODUCTION: Chronic inflammatory periodontal diseases i.e. gingivitis and periodontitis are one of the most common afflictions faced by human beings. Dental plaque, which is a pool of pathogenic microorganisms, remains to be current mainstay in etiopathogenesis. Dental calculus, which is a mineralized product of this plaque remains ignored and is considered merely as an ash heap of minor significance. However, the intriguing array in disease etiopathogenesis bulldozed researchers to suspect the role of calculus in disease chrysalis but still the viability of bacteria inside calculus and thus its pathogenicity remains an intricacy; the answer to which lies in the Pandora's Box. AIM: The present study was undertaken to investigate the viability of bacteria within dental calculus along with their identification. Also, to classify dental calculus on the basis of mineralization and to observe the variation of viable microflora found in dental calculus with the extent of mineralization and disease severity. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 60 samples were obtained, by harvesting two samples of supragingival calculus from each patient having chronic inflammatory periodontal disease. These samples were divided into two groups (Group A and Group B). Samples of Group A were kept non-irradiated and samples of Group B were exposed to UV radiation. The samples were categorized into less, moderately and highly mineralized according to the force required for crushing them. All the crushed calculus samples were then divided into three parts. These were used for dark-field microscopy, gram staining and bacterial cultures. Bacterial identification of the cultures obtained was also carried out by performing various biochemical assays. RESULTS: The present study revealed the presence of motile spirochaetes within the samples under dark-field microscope. Gram staining revealed presence of numerous gram positive cocci and gram negative bacilli. Bacterial cultures showed growth of variety of aerobic and capnophilic microorganisms. CONCLUSION: The present study concludes the presence of viable aerobic and capnophilic bacteria inside dental calculus which may reside within the lacunae and channels in the calculus.

A questionnaire survey on forensic odontology: Are we really aware?

INTRODUCTION: The role of a dentist is not only to examine and treat the oral diseases but also to assist the legal authorities by means of its branch-forensic odontology. Through forensic odontology, a dentist plays a very important role in crime investigation of any type. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the knowledge, awareness, and interest of forensic odontology among the dental teaching staff who are working in the dental colleges within the Delhi NCR. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A questionnaire of 12 questions (both open-ended and close-ended) was prepared and the survey was conducted with 200 dental teaching staff. RESULTS: A sufficient knowledge but poor awareness and interest among the dental teaching staff was observed. CONCLUSION: The study highlighted that although dental teaching staff themselves have sound knowledge regarding forensic odontology, their awareness and interest need to be upgraded on a regular basis. The success of acquiring such extensive knowledge would be valid if better job opportunities in these fields would be increased.

Basal Cell Adenoma with Perplexity in Diagnosis - A Case Report.

Every salivary gland tumour irrespective of its benign or malignant nature or occurrence, exhibits certain unique and overlapping histopathologic features. Basal Cell Adenoma (BCA) is a rare salivary gland tumour and hence it becomes our responsibility to report every case with unique histopathologic features so that it can add to our present knowledge of this lesion. Often, the pathologists experience difficulty while diagnosing lesions like BCA which contain basaloid cells due to its similarity with other lesions of similar histological appearance. Hence, this paper discusses a case of BCA with rare histopathologic features along with the possible differential diagnosis.

The Dismal State of Pathology Laboratories in Dental Colleges - A Stitch in Time Can Save Nine!

Being a pathologist, we all are aware of the protocols which need to be followed in the histopathology laboratories. However, quite often due to our carelessness or busy schedules we tend to skip one or two steps in the protocol. These steps may appear to be insignificant at that time but later on they may take a toll on the diagnosis by creating an artefact. Here, we have presented a case of a similar artefact which tried to mask our diagnostic ability.

Age estimation in Indian children and adolescents in the NCR region of Haryana: A comparative study.

INTRODUCTION: Age estimation is a preliminary step in the identification of an individual. It is a crucial and often most critical step for forensic experts. The assessment has been standardized utilizing common dental diagnostic x-rays, but most such age-estimating systems are European population-based and their applicability has not been determined in the context of the Indian population. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: To assess the applicability and to compare the methods of dental age estimation by Demirjian's method and the same method as modified by Willems (i.e. the Willems method) in Indian children of the National Capital Region (NCR). Also, to find a correlation among skeletal maturity using the Cervical vertebrae maturation index (CVMI), dental maturity, and chronological age in the same population. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted using dental radiographs of 70 orthodontic patients (37 males, 33 females) in the age range 9-16 years selected by simple random sampling. pantomogram were used to estimate dental age by Demirjian's method and the Willems method using their scoring tables. Lateral cephalograms were used to estimate skeletal maturity using CVMI. The latter was compared with Demirjian's stage for mandibular left second molar. RESULTS: Overestimation of age among males by 0.856 years and 0.496 years was found by Demirjian's and the Willems methods, respectively. Among females, both the methods underestimated the age by 0.31 years and 0.45 years, respectively. Demirjian's stage G corresponded to CVMI stage 3 in males and stage 2 in females. CONCLUSION: In our study, the Willems method has proved to be more accurate for age estimation among Indian males, and Demirjian's method for Indian females. A statistically significant association appeared between Demirjian's stages and CVMI among both males and females. Our study recommends the derivation of a regression formula by studying a larger section of the Indian population instead of applying the European system of age estimation directly to the Indian scenario.

Architectural Analysis of Picrosirius Red Stained Collagen in Oral Epithelial Dysplasia and Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma using Polarization Microscopy.

INTRODUCTION: Collagen degradation is important both for carcinogenesis and in its progression. Research regarding the co-relation of collagen with Oral Epithelial Dysplasia (OED) and Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC) is less explored. AIM: To elucidate the nature of collagen in Oral Epithelial Dysplasia (OED) and Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC) using Picrosirius Red Stain (PSR) under polarizing microscopy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study consisted of a total 40 samples which were divided into three groups. Group I included buccal mucosa as negative and irritation fibroma as positive control, group II consisted of OED and group III consisted of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC). A histochemical analysis was conducted using PSR-polarization method by two independent observers. RESULTS: The control group shows predominantly reddish-orange birefringence. In OED with the advancement of grades, the colour changed from yellowish-orange colour to yellow-greenish with progressive increase in greenish hue. As OSCC regresses from well to poorly differentiated, the colour changed from reddish-orange to yellowish orange to greenish-yellow suggesting a transition from mature to immature collagen. CONCLUSION: An observable gradual change in collagen of both OED and OSCC was noted as they were proceeding from benign to critical step. Thus, PSR is a useful tool for studying stromal changes as supporting collagen shows the transition in the form besides the alterations in epithelial cells.

Warthin's Tumour: A Case Report and Review on Pathogenesis and its Histological Subtypes.

Warthin's tumour/ Papillary cystadenoma lymphomatosum (PCL) constitutes a minority of salivary gland neoplasms and it is a monomorphic adenoma which primarily involves the parotid gland. Warthin's tumour shows multiple cysts that have numerous papillations covered by bilayered columnar and basaloid oncocytic epithelium. The connective tissue portion shows proliferation of follicle- containing lymphoid tissue which necessitates careful distinction for diagnosis. Although, Warthin's tumour presents as a clinically benign, slow-growing, usually asymptomatic lesion with low rates of recurrences and malignant transformation, but still this tumour is considered unique because of its histological appearance and unknown origin and pathogenesis. Here, we report a case of Warthin's tumour of five years duration in a 50-year-old male patient in the right parotid gland and also review and discuss various concepts concerning the development of this tumour along with a comprehensive literature on its clinic-pathologic features.

An unusual case report of basal cell adenoma: A Diagnostic Enchanter.

Oral lesions show a wide range of biologic behaviours. There are various lesions which may mimic others and present in such an unusual manner thus making them very difficult to diagnose clinico-pathologically. An accurate diagnosis is not only important for correct treatment planning but also for determination of prognosis. Thus, it is very important for a surgical pathologist to be aware of the various atypical presentations of the lesions. The present unusual case report of basal cell adenoma occurring on upper lip with frank areas of calcifications and abundant inspissated mucoid secretions is an example of one such case. BCA is an uncommon benign epithelial salivary gland neoplasm. It is one of the nine subcategories of salivary gland epithelial tumours according to WHO 2005 classification of salivary gland tumors. It is composed of basaloid cells organized with a prominent basal cell layer and distinct basement membrane-like structure and no myxochondroid stromal component as seen in pleomorphic adenomas. To our best knowledge, no case in English literature has been reported BCA with exuberant inspissated mucoid secretions and frank areas of calcifications to such a large extent and this is the first case to report the same. Key words: Basal cell adenoma, calcifications, diagnosis, inspissated mucoid secretions, surgical pathologist.

Basaloid squamous cell carcinoma of oral cavity with incongruent clinical course.

Basaloid squamous cell carcinoma (BSCC) is a rare variant of SCC having a marked predilection for the upper aerodigestive tract. It is regarded as a high-grade tumour with increased propensity for metastasis to distant sites. The histological hallmark of BSCC is its dimorphic pattern of presentation with a characteristic basal cell component associated with squamous component. We report two cases of BSCC on the buccal mucosa and gingiva, respectively, with the former presenting as a primary lesion in a patient without a positive history of tobacco and alcohol use and the latter present as a seemingly metachronous development from carcinoma lung. The proliferative index of the two diverse yet similar entities was assessed by Ki-67 labelling index (LI) and the association of human papillomavirus (HPV) was detected with p16 monoclonal antibody. The intrinsically aggressive behaviour of BSCC and its association with HPV is highlighted.

Cytological artifacts masquerading interpretation.

BACKGROUND: Cytological artifacts are important to learn because an error in routine laboratory practice can bring out an erroneous result. AIMS: The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of delayed fixation and morphological discrepancies created by deliberate addition of extraneous factors on the interpretation and/or diagnosis of an oral cytosmear. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A prospective study was carried out using papanicolaou and hematoxylin and eosin-stained oral smears, 6 each from 66 volunteer dental students with deliberate variation in fixation delay timings, with and without changes in temperature, undue pressure while smear making and intentional addition of contaminants. The fixation delay at room temperature was carried out at an interval of every 30 minutes, 1 day and 1 week and was continued till the end of 1 day, 1 week, and 1 month, respectively. The temperature variations included 60 to 70°C and 3 to 4°C. RESULTS: Light microscopically, the effect of delayed fixation at room temperature appeared first on cytoplasm followed by nucleus within the first 2 hours and on the 4(th) day, respectively, till complete cytoplasmic degeneration on the 23(rd) day. However, delayed fixation at variable temperature brought faster degenerative changes at higher temperature than lower temperature. Effect of extraneous factors revealed some interesting facts. CONCLUSIONS: In order to justify a cytosmear interpretation, a cytologist must be well acquainted with delayed fixation-induced cellular changes and microscopic appearances of common contaminants so as to implicate better prognosis and therapy.