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Papers by Srinivas Sulugodu Ramachandra

Research paper thumbnail of Oral health: Charcoal brushes

British Dental Journal, 2014

Research paper thumbnail of Prospects of Passive Immunotherapy to Treat Pulpal Inflammation

Research paper thumbnail of The aggressive periodontitis quandary

The Journal of the American Dental Association

Research paper thumbnail of Melt Electrowritten 3d Scaffolds Modified with Vertically Aligned Calcium Phosphate Nanoplates for Inhibiting Biofilm Formation

Research paper thumbnail of Antibody response to BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine in gingival crevicular fluid

Journal of Periodontology

GCF is a viable alternative non-invasive source for the detection of antibodies against SARS-CoV-... more GCF is a viable alternative non-invasive source for the detection of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 S1-RBD antigen following vaccination.

Research paper thumbnail of Salivary SARS-CoV-2 antibody detection using S1-RBD protein-immobilized 3D melt electrowritten poly(ε-caprolactone) scaffolds

RSC Advances

Our work developed a 3D SARS-CoV-2 antibody detection platform in non-invasive saliva samples usi... more Our work developed a 3D SARS-CoV-2 antibody detection platform in non-invasive saliva samples using S1-RBD protein-immobilized 3D melt electrowritten poly(ε-caprolactone) scaffolds.

Research paper thumbnail of Surface Modification of Pure Zinc by Acid Etching: Accelerating the Corrosion Rate and Enhancing Biocompatibility and Antibacterial Characteristics

ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces

Research paper thumbnail of Effect of azithromycin on oral biofilms and as an adjunct to the non-surgical treatment of periodontitis

Research paper thumbnail of Influence of Grafting on Pocket Depth and Dentin Hypersensitivity Around Third Molar Extraction Sites: A Split-Mouth Randomized Controlled Trial

Compendium of continuing education in dentistry, 2022

This study evaluated the effect of alloplastic bone grafts in osseous defects following surgical ... more This study evaluated the effect of alloplastic bone grafts in osseous defects following surgical removal of horizontally impacted third molars by comparing the periodontal measures distal to the second molar in grafted and nongrafted third molar extraction sites. Materials and Methods: A double-blind, randomized, controlled clinical trial was designed on subjects with bilateral horizontally impacted mandibular third molars. Grafting consisting of alloplasts at the third molar extraction sites was compared with nongrafted sites. This study assessed 54 randomized sites in 27 patients who were selected using a split-mouth design. The predictor variable included the change in pocket depth distal to the mandibular second molar and associated dentin hypersensitivity around the second molar, assessed preoperatively and at 3 and 6 months after third molar surgery. The data regarding pocket depth reduction was statistically analyzed using paired t-test. The data concerning reduction in denti...

Research paper thumbnail of Secondhand smoke exposure from the indoor and outdoor shisha centers located at the perimeter of educational institutions in Malaysia: a cross-sectional study

Journal of Public Health Policy, 2022

Shisha is a centuries-old traditional smoking habit rapidly gaining popularity among the students... more Shisha is a centuries-old traditional smoking habit rapidly gaining popularity among the students and young adults in Malaysia. The present study evaluated secondhand smoke exposure (SHS) and characteristics of 25 indoor and 25 outdoor shisha centers (SC) operating around the educational institutes such as universities in Petaling Jaya, Malaysia. We observed a significantly higher particulate matter (PM) 2.5 concentration in indoor than outdoor SC (3595.28 μg/m 3 and 65.12 μg/ m 3 , p < 0.001, respectively). SCs are offering different flavors to attract clients and exposing students and young professionals to a significantly high concentration of SHS. Such exposures may pose a serious health risk. Therefore, policymakers need to strengthen tobacco guidelines and eliminate loopholes in the sale of shisha by enforcing comprehensive and strict smoke-free laws.

Research paper thumbnail of Letter to the editor: RE: Risk of periodontal disease in patients with asthma: A nationwide population-based retrospective cohort study

Journal of Periodontology, 2018

Research paper thumbnail of Disease Staging Index for Aggressive Periodontitis

Oral health & preventive dentistry, 2017

Major advances in the knowledge about the aetiopathogenesis of aggressive periodontitis (AgP) hav... more Major advances in the knowledge about the aetiopathogenesis of aggressive periodontitis (AgP) have been achieved. An ever increasing number of scientific articles related to AgP are published every year contributing significantly to the knowledge of this unique and complex disease. AgP has been classified into localised and generalised forms based on their extent and disease progression with distinct clinical and radiological features. A classification of AgP based on severity (mild, moderate and severe) exists; however, it is not easily applicable. Therefore, studies on AgP do not categorise the disease based on severity. A disease staging index for AgP is proposed based on clinical and radiological features, as well as risk factors. Based on the presence or absence of risk factors confirmed by longitudinal studies, cases of AgP can be divided into low risk, medium risk and high risk profiles for disease progression. Clinicians can devise a broad treatment plan for their AgP cases ...

Research paper thumbnail of Periodontal infections as a risk factor for preterm low birth weight deliveries : speculation or reality ?

Preterm low-birth-weight (PTLBW) deliveries remain as a significant public health issue and a lea... more Preterm low-birth-weight (PTLBW) deliveries remain as a significant public health issue and a leading cause of neonatal death. The search for modifiable risk factors affecting low birth weight infants has led to the hypothesis that periodontal infection can act as an independent risk factor. Studies both supporting and negating the link between periodontal disease and PTLBW deliveries have been published in the last decade. Many periodontal organisms have been isolated from the amniotic fluid of women with low birth weight infants. Randomized controlled clinical trials have shown that periodontal therapy can reduce the incidence of PTLBW deliveries.

Research paper thumbnail of An investigation into toothbrush wear related to months of use among university students

Background: Toothbrushes should be replaced every 3 to 4 months as older brushes lose their plaqu... more Background: Toothbrushes should be replaced every 3 to 4 months as older brushes lose their plaque removal ability. Older brushes may not be able to remove plaque from pits and fissures seen on the occlusal surfaces of the teeth or from the proximal areas between the teeth. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the wear seen on used toothbrushes (UTB) and the relation of wear with regards to the period of toothbrush use. Material and methods: UTB were collected from university students studying courses in arts and sciences faculties, excluding health sciences faculties, during an oral health awareness campaign conducted by the Faculty of Dentistry. A validated questionnaire was used to collect descriptive data regarding toothbrushing habits. Two calibrated examiners scored the UTB according to the Rawls et al. index. Authors also examined different types of toothbrushes and the cleanliness of the toothbrush handles. Results: The findings of the study show that 58.0% of the UTB we...

Research paper thumbnail of Regenerative Approaches in Periodontics

Regenerative Approaches in Dentistry, 2021

Research paper thumbnail of Endogenous nitric oxide-generating surfaces via polydopamine-copper coatings for preventing biofilm dispersal and promoting microbial killing

Materials Science and Engineering: C, 2021

INTRODUCTION Peri-implantitis is a bacterially induced inflammatory disease which affects the har... more INTRODUCTION Peri-implantitis is a bacterially induced inflammatory disease which affects the hard and soft tissues around a dental implant. Microbial biofilm formation is an important causative factor in peri-implantitis. The aim of this study is to develop an effective multifunctional surface coating for antimicrobial property and to counteract oral biofilm-associated infections via a single polydopamine copper coating (PDAM@Cu) on titanium implant surface to regulate endogenous nitric oxide (NO) generation. METHODS PDAM@Cu coatings were made with different concentrations of CuCl2 on titanium surfaces with a simple dip coating technique. Coatings were characterised to evaluate Cu concentrations as well as NO release rates from the coatings. Further, salivary biofilms were made on the coatings using Brain Heart Infusion (BHI) media in an anaerobic chamber. Biofilms were prepared with three different mixtures, one of which was saliva only, the second had an addition of sheep's blood, and the third was prepared with NO donors S-nitrosoglutathione (GSNO) and L-glutathione (GSH) in the mixture of saliva and blood to evaluate the effects of endogenously produced NO on biofilms. The effectiveness of coated surfaces on biofilms were assessed using four different methods, namely, crystal violet assay, scanning electron microscopy imaging, 2,3-bis (2-methoxy-4-nitro-5-sulfophenyl)-5-[(phenylamino) carbonyl]-2H-tetrazolium hydroxide (XTT) metabolic assay, and live/dead staining. RESULTS NO release rates could be controlled with different Cu concentration in PDAM@Cu coatings. NO generated from the PDAM@Cu coatings effectively induced dispersal of biofilms shown by the reduction in biofilm biomass as well as reduced biofilm attachment in samples prepared with blood and NO donors. Cu ions released from the PDAM@Cu coatings resulted in killing of the dispersed bacteria, which was evidenced by the live/dead cell staining and reduced metabolic activity noted from the XTT assay. In contrast, samples prepared with saliva showed no significant reduction in biofilms, indicating the important effect of endogenously generated NO on biofilm dispersal. CONCLUSION In conclusion, PDAM@Cu coatings with NO generating surfaces have a dual anti-biofilm function, with a synergistic effect on biofilm dispersal from regulated NO generation and bactericidal effects from Cu ions from the coatings.

Research paper thumbnail of Balancing assessment of depth and breadth in the dental curriculum: A bi-dimensional assessment strategy

Journal of Oral Biology and Craniofacial Research, 2020

Introduction: Integrated curricula are being increasingly adopted in health professions, owing to... more Introduction: Integrated curricula are being increasingly adopted in health professions, owing to their advantages including patient-centred training and development of critical thinking. Similarly, the majority of dental Universities have either moved away from discipline-specific towards integrated curricula or have incorporated elements of integration. Despite several advantages offered by the integrated curriculum, one disadvantage is failure to assess depth of knowledge. Assessing the depth of knowledge is a characteristic of discipline-specific curriculum. This commentary describes the inclusion of both discipline-based and integrated assessments at Faculty of Dentistry, SEGi University, Malaysia. Material and methods: Module tests (discipline-based assessments) comprising of discipline specific questions are conducted at the end of every term, mimicking the traditional discipline-specific assessment. Questions in the module tests are intended to assess the depth of knowledge of students. Mid semester examinations are conducted at the end of the semester, mimicking the integrated assessment. Integrated questions are intended to test the breadth of knowledge of students. Results: Lecturers and students felt introduction of module tests, helped them to prepare for topics in a phased manner and better answer questions posed by lecturers during case discussions and clinical presentations. The 'borderline distinction' students felt that studying for module tests provided them with the depth of knowledge essential to answer questions during viva voce. Discussion: Including both the traditional and integrated methods of assessments would engage students in a learning experience developing their breadth and depth of knowledge. Further prospective research is essential to assess the impact of this assessment strategy.

Research paper thumbnail of The Specifications and Ingredients Found in Commercially Available Toothpastes

Makara Journal of Health Research, 2017

Research paper thumbnail of A comprehensive template for inclusion of research in the undergraduate dental curriculum

Health Professions Education, 2019

Problem: Evidence exists that undergraduate students in the health professions benefit from an ea... more Problem: Evidence exists that undergraduate students in the health professions benefit from an early introduction to research skills. However, many undergraduate health programs internationally have a minimal inclusion of research methods in their curricula. Most dental curricula focus most of their time and energy on clinical dental training. Increased emphasis on research in dentistry has led many schools to include research in their undergraduate curriculum. This commentary describes the structured inclusion of a constructively aligned research module in the undergraduate curriculum in all Malaysian dental universities. Approach: This commentary reports the structured inclusion of research at one of the private dental universities in Malaysia. Students in a cohort were formed into groups. The dean appoints academic staff members as supervisors to each of the groups in their research work from the selection of the research topic to the presentation of the research work in an external conference. The student scientific conferences provide students with a platform to showcase their research. Outcomes: All the research groups presented their research in an external conference, and two groups could convert their research reports to articles in international peer-reviewed journals. Feedback provided by the students identified many positives and highlighted a few barriers in conducting student research projects. Next steps: The approach taken by the Malaysian dental academic fraternity over the past decade to build and strengthen research in the undergraduate dental curriculum provides a template which other nations can follow.

Research paper thumbnail of Knowledge about human papillomavirus (HPV) related oral cancers among oral health professionals in university setting–A cross sectional study

Journal of Oral Biology and Craniofacial Research, 2018

Introduction: Scientific literature suggests that human papillomavirus (HPV) infection may be ass... more Introduction: Scientific literature suggests that human papillomavirus (HPV) infection may be associated with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). However, knowledge regarding HPV-OSCC link among oral health professionals (OHP) has been insufficient. So, the aim of this study was to assess the knowledge about HPV associated OSCC among OHP working in dental faculties in Malaysia. Methodology: Ethical committee of the University approved this study. A validated, pre-tested questionnaire was sent electronically to 224 OHP. Questionnaire collected information regarding demography, knowledge about HPV-OSCC link, HPV vaccine, and willingness to educate patients about HPV OSCC link among the participants of this cross-sectional study. Data collected was analysed using "Stata/IC-13" and was summarised using descriptive statistics like frequency, percentage, mean and standard deviation. Results: Out of 179 participants, around 39% of the participant's opined virus was not a causative factor for OSCC. Around, 44% replied posterior portion of the tongue/oro-pharynx was the commonest site for HPV related OSCC, whereas 29% replied that lateral border of the tongue was the common site for HPV related OSCC. Forty one percent educated patients regarding HPV infection being a causative factor for OSCC. HPV vaccine can prevent OSCC was stated by 70% OHP. Only 12% were aware of the availability of HPV vaccine in Malaysia. Majority (99%), agreed that there is a need to offer continuing education programmes to dentists highlighting advances and preventive strategies in the fight against OSCC. Conclusion: Substantial increase in awareness is required among OHP regarding HPV-OSCC link.

Research paper thumbnail of Oral health: Charcoal brushes

British Dental Journal, 2014

Research paper thumbnail of Prospects of Passive Immunotherapy to Treat Pulpal Inflammation

Research paper thumbnail of The aggressive periodontitis quandary

The Journal of the American Dental Association

Research paper thumbnail of Melt Electrowritten 3d Scaffolds Modified with Vertically Aligned Calcium Phosphate Nanoplates for Inhibiting Biofilm Formation

Research paper thumbnail of Antibody response to BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine in gingival crevicular fluid

Journal of Periodontology

GCF is a viable alternative non-invasive source for the detection of antibodies against SARS-CoV-... more GCF is a viable alternative non-invasive source for the detection of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 S1-RBD antigen following vaccination.

Research paper thumbnail of Salivary SARS-CoV-2 antibody detection using S1-RBD protein-immobilized 3D melt electrowritten poly(ε-caprolactone) scaffolds

RSC Advances

Our work developed a 3D SARS-CoV-2 antibody detection platform in non-invasive saliva samples usi... more Our work developed a 3D SARS-CoV-2 antibody detection platform in non-invasive saliva samples using S1-RBD protein-immobilized 3D melt electrowritten poly(ε-caprolactone) scaffolds.

Research paper thumbnail of Surface Modification of Pure Zinc by Acid Etching: Accelerating the Corrosion Rate and Enhancing Biocompatibility and Antibacterial Characteristics

ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces

Research paper thumbnail of Effect of azithromycin on oral biofilms and as an adjunct to the non-surgical treatment of periodontitis

Research paper thumbnail of Influence of Grafting on Pocket Depth and Dentin Hypersensitivity Around Third Molar Extraction Sites: A Split-Mouth Randomized Controlled Trial

Compendium of continuing education in dentistry, 2022

This study evaluated the effect of alloplastic bone grafts in osseous defects following surgical ... more This study evaluated the effect of alloplastic bone grafts in osseous defects following surgical removal of horizontally impacted third molars by comparing the periodontal measures distal to the second molar in grafted and nongrafted third molar extraction sites. Materials and Methods: A double-blind, randomized, controlled clinical trial was designed on subjects with bilateral horizontally impacted mandibular third molars. Grafting consisting of alloplasts at the third molar extraction sites was compared with nongrafted sites. This study assessed 54 randomized sites in 27 patients who were selected using a split-mouth design. The predictor variable included the change in pocket depth distal to the mandibular second molar and associated dentin hypersensitivity around the second molar, assessed preoperatively and at 3 and 6 months after third molar surgery. The data regarding pocket depth reduction was statistically analyzed using paired t-test. The data concerning reduction in denti...

Research paper thumbnail of Secondhand smoke exposure from the indoor and outdoor shisha centers located at the perimeter of educational institutions in Malaysia: a cross-sectional study

Journal of Public Health Policy, 2022

Shisha is a centuries-old traditional smoking habit rapidly gaining popularity among the students... more Shisha is a centuries-old traditional smoking habit rapidly gaining popularity among the students and young adults in Malaysia. The present study evaluated secondhand smoke exposure (SHS) and characteristics of 25 indoor and 25 outdoor shisha centers (SC) operating around the educational institutes such as universities in Petaling Jaya, Malaysia. We observed a significantly higher particulate matter (PM) 2.5 concentration in indoor than outdoor SC (3595.28 μg/m 3 and 65.12 μg/ m 3 , p < 0.001, respectively). SCs are offering different flavors to attract clients and exposing students and young professionals to a significantly high concentration of SHS. Such exposures may pose a serious health risk. Therefore, policymakers need to strengthen tobacco guidelines and eliminate loopholes in the sale of shisha by enforcing comprehensive and strict smoke-free laws.

Research paper thumbnail of Letter to the editor: RE: Risk of periodontal disease in patients with asthma: A nationwide population-based retrospective cohort study

Journal of Periodontology, 2018

Research paper thumbnail of Disease Staging Index for Aggressive Periodontitis

Oral health & preventive dentistry, 2017

Major advances in the knowledge about the aetiopathogenesis of aggressive periodontitis (AgP) hav... more Major advances in the knowledge about the aetiopathogenesis of aggressive periodontitis (AgP) have been achieved. An ever increasing number of scientific articles related to AgP are published every year contributing significantly to the knowledge of this unique and complex disease. AgP has been classified into localised and generalised forms based on their extent and disease progression with distinct clinical and radiological features. A classification of AgP based on severity (mild, moderate and severe) exists; however, it is not easily applicable. Therefore, studies on AgP do not categorise the disease based on severity. A disease staging index for AgP is proposed based on clinical and radiological features, as well as risk factors. Based on the presence or absence of risk factors confirmed by longitudinal studies, cases of AgP can be divided into low risk, medium risk and high risk profiles for disease progression. Clinicians can devise a broad treatment plan for their AgP cases ...

Research paper thumbnail of Periodontal infections as a risk factor for preterm low birth weight deliveries : speculation or reality ?

Preterm low-birth-weight (PTLBW) deliveries remain as a significant public health issue and a lea... more Preterm low-birth-weight (PTLBW) deliveries remain as a significant public health issue and a leading cause of neonatal death. The search for modifiable risk factors affecting low birth weight infants has led to the hypothesis that periodontal infection can act as an independent risk factor. Studies both supporting and negating the link between periodontal disease and PTLBW deliveries have been published in the last decade. Many periodontal organisms have been isolated from the amniotic fluid of women with low birth weight infants. Randomized controlled clinical trials have shown that periodontal therapy can reduce the incidence of PTLBW deliveries.

Research paper thumbnail of An investigation into toothbrush wear related to months of use among university students

Background: Toothbrushes should be replaced every 3 to 4 months as older brushes lose their plaqu... more Background: Toothbrushes should be replaced every 3 to 4 months as older brushes lose their plaque removal ability. Older brushes may not be able to remove plaque from pits and fissures seen on the occlusal surfaces of the teeth or from the proximal areas between the teeth. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the wear seen on used toothbrushes (UTB) and the relation of wear with regards to the period of toothbrush use. Material and methods: UTB were collected from university students studying courses in arts and sciences faculties, excluding health sciences faculties, during an oral health awareness campaign conducted by the Faculty of Dentistry. A validated questionnaire was used to collect descriptive data regarding toothbrushing habits. Two calibrated examiners scored the UTB according to the Rawls et al. index. Authors also examined different types of toothbrushes and the cleanliness of the toothbrush handles. Results: The findings of the study show that 58.0% of the UTB we...

Research paper thumbnail of Regenerative Approaches in Periodontics

Regenerative Approaches in Dentistry, 2021

Research paper thumbnail of Endogenous nitric oxide-generating surfaces via polydopamine-copper coatings for preventing biofilm dispersal and promoting microbial killing

Materials Science and Engineering: C, 2021

INTRODUCTION Peri-implantitis is a bacterially induced inflammatory disease which affects the har... more INTRODUCTION Peri-implantitis is a bacterially induced inflammatory disease which affects the hard and soft tissues around a dental implant. Microbial biofilm formation is an important causative factor in peri-implantitis. The aim of this study is to develop an effective multifunctional surface coating for antimicrobial property and to counteract oral biofilm-associated infections via a single polydopamine copper coating (PDAM@Cu) on titanium implant surface to regulate endogenous nitric oxide (NO) generation. METHODS PDAM@Cu coatings were made with different concentrations of CuCl2 on titanium surfaces with a simple dip coating technique. Coatings were characterised to evaluate Cu concentrations as well as NO release rates from the coatings. Further, salivary biofilms were made on the coatings using Brain Heart Infusion (BHI) media in an anaerobic chamber. Biofilms were prepared with three different mixtures, one of which was saliva only, the second had an addition of sheep's blood, and the third was prepared with NO donors S-nitrosoglutathione (GSNO) and L-glutathione (GSH) in the mixture of saliva and blood to evaluate the effects of endogenously produced NO on biofilms. The effectiveness of coated surfaces on biofilms were assessed using four different methods, namely, crystal violet assay, scanning electron microscopy imaging, 2,3-bis (2-methoxy-4-nitro-5-sulfophenyl)-5-[(phenylamino) carbonyl]-2H-tetrazolium hydroxide (XTT) metabolic assay, and live/dead staining. RESULTS NO release rates could be controlled with different Cu concentration in PDAM@Cu coatings. NO generated from the PDAM@Cu coatings effectively induced dispersal of biofilms shown by the reduction in biofilm biomass as well as reduced biofilm attachment in samples prepared with blood and NO donors. Cu ions released from the PDAM@Cu coatings resulted in killing of the dispersed bacteria, which was evidenced by the live/dead cell staining and reduced metabolic activity noted from the XTT assay. In contrast, samples prepared with saliva showed no significant reduction in biofilms, indicating the important effect of endogenously generated NO on biofilm dispersal. CONCLUSION In conclusion, PDAM@Cu coatings with NO generating surfaces have a dual anti-biofilm function, with a synergistic effect on biofilm dispersal from regulated NO generation and bactericidal effects from Cu ions from the coatings.

Research paper thumbnail of Balancing assessment of depth and breadth in the dental curriculum: A bi-dimensional assessment strategy

Journal of Oral Biology and Craniofacial Research, 2020

Introduction: Integrated curricula are being increasingly adopted in health professions, owing to... more Introduction: Integrated curricula are being increasingly adopted in health professions, owing to their advantages including patient-centred training and development of critical thinking. Similarly, the majority of dental Universities have either moved away from discipline-specific towards integrated curricula or have incorporated elements of integration. Despite several advantages offered by the integrated curriculum, one disadvantage is failure to assess depth of knowledge. Assessing the depth of knowledge is a characteristic of discipline-specific curriculum. This commentary describes the inclusion of both discipline-based and integrated assessments at Faculty of Dentistry, SEGi University, Malaysia. Material and methods: Module tests (discipline-based assessments) comprising of discipline specific questions are conducted at the end of every term, mimicking the traditional discipline-specific assessment. Questions in the module tests are intended to assess the depth of knowledge of students. Mid semester examinations are conducted at the end of the semester, mimicking the integrated assessment. Integrated questions are intended to test the breadth of knowledge of students. Results: Lecturers and students felt introduction of module tests, helped them to prepare for topics in a phased manner and better answer questions posed by lecturers during case discussions and clinical presentations. The 'borderline distinction' students felt that studying for module tests provided them with the depth of knowledge essential to answer questions during viva voce. Discussion: Including both the traditional and integrated methods of assessments would engage students in a learning experience developing their breadth and depth of knowledge. Further prospective research is essential to assess the impact of this assessment strategy.

Research paper thumbnail of The Specifications and Ingredients Found in Commercially Available Toothpastes

Makara Journal of Health Research, 2017

Research paper thumbnail of A comprehensive template for inclusion of research in the undergraduate dental curriculum

Health Professions Education, 2019

Problem: Evidence exists that undergraduate students in the health professions benefit from an ea... more Problem: Evidence exists that undergraduate students in the health professions benefit from an early introduction to research skills. However, many undergraduate health programs internationally have a minimal inclusion of research methods in their curricula. Most dental curricula focus most of their time and energy on clinical dental training. Increased emphasis on research in dentistry has led many schools to include research in their undergraduate curriculum. This commentary describes the structured inclusion of a constructively aligned research module in the undergraduate curriculum in all Malaysian dental universities. Approach: This commentary reports the structured inclusion of research at one of the private dental universities in Malaysia. Students in a cohort were formed into groups. The dean appoints academic staff members as supervisors to each of the groups in their research work from the selection of the research topic to the presentation of the research work in an external conference. The student scientific conferences provide students with a platform to showcase their research. Outcomes: All the research groups presented their research in an external conference, and two groups could convert their research reports to articles in international peer-reviewed journals. Feedback provided by the students identified many positives and highlighted a few barriers in conducting student research projects. Next steps: The approach taken by the Malaysian dental academic fraternity over the past decade to build and strengthen research in the undergraduate dental curriculum provides a template which other nations can follow.

Research paper thumbnail of Knowledge about human papillomavirus (HPV) related oral cancers among oral health professionals in university setting–A cross sectional study

Journal of Oral Biology and Craniofacial Research, 2018

Introduction: Scientific literature suggests that human papillomavirus (HPV) infection may be ass... more Introduction: Scientific literature suggests that human papillomavirus (HPV) infection may be associated with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). However, knowledge regarding HPV-OSCC link among oral health professionals (OHP) has been insufficient. So, the aim of this study was to assess the knowledge about HPV associated OSCC among OHP working in dental faculties in Malaysia. Methodology: Ethical committee of the University approved this study. A validated, pre-tested questionnaire was sent electronically to 224 OHP. Questionnaire collected information regarding demography, knowledge about HPV-OSCC link, HPV vaccine, and willingness to educate patients about HPV OSCC link among the participants of this cross-sectional study. Data collected was analysed using "Stata/IC-13" and was summarised using descriptive statistics like frequency, percentage, mean and standard deviation. Results: Out of 179 participants, around 39% of the participant's opined virus was not a causative factor for OSCC. Around, 44% replied posterior portion of the tongue/oro-pharynx was the commonest site for HPV related OSCC, whereas 29% replied that lateral border of the tongue was the common site for HPV related OSCC. Forty one percent educated patients regarding HPV infection being a causative factor for OSCC. HPV vaccine can prevent OSCC was stated by 70% OHP. Only 12% were aware of the availability of HPV vaccine in Malaysia. Majority (99%), agreed that there is a need to offer continuing education programmes to dentists highlighting advances and preventive strategies in the fight against OSCC. Conclusion: Substantial increase in awareness is required among OHP regarding HPV-OSCC link.