Cost of implementing the QualityRights programme in public hospitals in Gujarat providing mental healthcare

Background & objectives: Investment in mental health is quite meagre worldwide, including in India. The costs of new interventions must be clarified to ensure the appropriate utilization of available resources. The government of Gujarat implemented QualityRights intervention at six public mental health hospitals. This study was aimed to project the costs of scaling up of the Gujarat QualityRights intervention to understand the additional resources needed for a broader implementation. Methods: Economic costs of the QualityRights intervention were calculated using an ingredients-based approach from the health systems’ perspective. Major activities within the QualityRights intervention included assessment visits, meetings, training of trainers, provision of peer support and onsite training. Results: Total costs of implementing the QualityRights intervention varied from Indian Rupees (?) 0.59 million to ? 2.59 million [1United States Dollars (US $) = ? 74.132] across six intervention sites at 2020 prices with 69-79 per cent of the cost being time cost. Scaling up the intervention to the entire State of Gujarat would require about two per cent increase in financial investment, or about 7.5 per cent increase in total cost including time costs over and above the costs of usual care for people with mental health conditions in public health facilities across the State. Interpretation & conclusions: The findings of this study suggest that human resources were the major cost contributor of the programme. Given the shortage of trained human resources in the mental health sector, appropriate planning during the scale-up phase of the QualityRights intervention is required to ensure all staff members receive the required training, and the treatment is not compromised during this training phase. As only about two per cent increase in financial cost can improve the quality of mental healthcare significantly, the State government can plan for its scale-up across the State.

Synthetic Hydroxyapatite Bone Graft Substitute In Sinus Augmentation - A Histological Analysis

Aim: Material And Method:To see the effect of synthetic Hydroxyapatite bone graft substitute in sinus augmentation. A lateral window was cut on the buccal aspect of the maxilla on the posterior region in the area of molar I/II and after carefully lifting the sinus membrane, bone graft was packed and a collagen membrane was placed on top of it. After a period of 8 months the site was re-entered to take bone sample for histological analysis using a trephine, at the same time, implant (Bioner Top DM, 4/10) was placed at the surgical site. The surgical site healed well. G-Bone hasResults: shown good bone growth histologically. The surgical site healed well. G-Bone has shown good bone growthConclusion: histologically.

Creatively tiding over the crisis

Background: A patient with a retained intraocular metallic foreign body post?trauma was taken up for vitrectomy and intraocular foreign body removal. Unfortunately, the intraocular magnet was not available at the moment on the table! How a little bit of creativity and innovative thought helped us tide over this crisis is the content of this video. Purpose: To demonstrate magnetization of a metallic surgical instrument for temporary use in the event of unavailability of the intraocular magnet for intraocular foreign body removal. Synopsis: A ferromagnetic substance can be magnetized temporarily using an existing magnet. We obtained a general?purpose magnet and wrapped it in sterile plastic, using which we magnetized normal intraocular forceps and a Micro Vitreo Retinal (MVR) blade by giving about 20–30 strokes over the magnet in a single direction. This aligned the magnetic domains in the metal in a parallel fashion. These Do It Yourself (DIY)? magnetic instruments were then effectively utilized to remove the metallic intraocular foreign body. Highlights: The video showcases effectively harnessing the available resources and tiding over the dearth of a necessary instrument, with the right use of an innovative idea and some creativity!.

Study of Efficacy of Injection Remdesivir in Patients of COVID-19

Introduction: The coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) is a highly contagious disease caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV-2). World Health Organization (WHO) declared it a pandemic on 11th March 2020. Injectable remdesivir (RDV), a repurposed antiviral, was first accorded approval by the United States of America (USA) Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on 1st May 2020, for emergency use to treat suspected or laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 patients. Interim analysis of the Solidarity trial revealed no benefits in patients treated with RDV in any group of patients with COVID-19. Here, we have attempted to place our data on the efficacy of RDV in patients of COVID-19 with moderate to severe categories. Materials and methods: A retrospective review and data analysis of 100 COVID-19 patients with reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR)/rapid antigen test positive was performed. Among them, 50 received RDV in addition to the standard treatment protocol (STP), while the remaining 50 received only the STP. STP is an injectable steroid and heparin, along with other supportive management. Prevalent government guidelines were followed as per usual for the classification of the patients and treatment protocol. Every day of hospitalization, the status of respiratory support was checked, and every 3rd-day inflammatory markers [C-reactive protein (CRP) and D-dimer] were measured until the patient was discharged or died. Statistical analysis of the data was done using online software. Results: Age and comorbidity distribution in both groups ensures adequate matching between the two groups. A statistically significant difference in hospitalization days was obtained in RDV-treated patients (15 vs 19 days, p-value ?0.003). Statistically significant differences were not found in mortality (6 vs 10 deaths, p-value ?0.27) and reduction in oxygen (O2)/ventilatory support requirements (p-value ?0.75) in the RDV group as compared to other groups. The difference in the value of CRP (p-value 0.001) and D-dimer (p-value 0.049) on day 5 is statistically significant in the RDV group as compared to the other groups. Discussion: The finding of a reduction in days of hospitalization was similar to the Adaptive COVID-19 Treatment Trial (ACTT) 1 study conducted by Beigel et al. The mortality data were also comparable to those from WHO’s Solidarity trial. No similarity was found in data on the reduction in ordinal scale from higher to lower scale for O2/ventilatory support on day 10 from 0. Similarity regarding the reduction in values of inflammatory markers on day 5 was found in studies conducted by Kannan et al. and Stoeckle et al. Conclusion: We found mortality benefit and reduction in O2 requirements/ventilatory support in RDV plus STP-administered cases as compared to STP only, but statistically, this difference is not significant, which suggests that mortality benefit in the RDV group in our study is merely by chance. Here, we can definitely conclude that days of hospital stay and inflammatory markers are reduced in the RDV plus STP-administered group, and the difference between the two groups is statistically significant, which suggests that early use of RDV could shorten the time to clinical improvement.

Comparative Study of Physico-Chemical Analysis of Changeri Ghrita Prepared with Murchita and Amurchita Ghrita

Changeri ghrita is a medicated ghee formulation, mentioned in Grahani rog chikitsa. Sneha murchana is a procedure prior to Snehapaka. Snehapaka and Murchana bring changes in Sneha. Materials and Methods: Two batches of Changeri ghrita prepared using Murchita and Amurchit ghrita. Prepared Ghrita subjected to physico-chemical analysis. Result and Discussion: Specific gravity increased in Murchita ghrita. Refractive index, viscosity, saponification value, iodine values were increased. While acid value is decreased. Peroxide value is slightly increased. Unsaponifiable matter remains unchanged. There was change in organoleptic properties after Murchana. Physico-chemical changes have been occurring except in unsaponifiable matter and congealing point. Peroxide was present in both samples of Amurchit and Murchit Changeri ghrita. Saponification value was increased in Murchit Changeri Ghrita Conclusion: It can be concluded that antioxidants were added during Murchana. Murchana maintains stability of lipid preparation and offer good health impact, increases palatability.

Study of retinal nerve fiber layer thickness in diabetic patients using optical coherence tomography

Purpose: This study aimed to assess and compare the changes in peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness in nondiabetics and diabetics with various stages of diabetic retinopathy (DR). Methods: The study subjects were divided into four groups based on their diabetic status and findings, namely, controls (normal subjects without diabetes [NDM]), diabetics without retinopathy (NDR), nonproliferative DR (NPDR), and proliferative DR (PDR). Peripapillary RNFL thickness was assessed using optical coherence tomography. One?way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with the post?Tukey HSD test was done to compare RNFL thickness in different groups. The Pearson coefficient was used to determine the correlation. Results: There was statistically significant difference in measured average RNFL (F = 14.8000, P < 0.05), superior RNFL (F = 11.7768, P < 0.05), inferior RNFL (F = 12.9639, P < 0.05), nasal RNFL (F = 12.2134, P < 0.05), and temporal RNFL (F = 4.2668, P < 0.05) across the different study groups. Pairwise comparison showed that there was a statistically significant difference in RNFL measured (average and all quadrants) in patients with DR (NPDR and PDR) and the NDM control group (P < 0.05). In diabetics without retinopathy, the RNFL measured was reduced compared to controls, but it was statistically significant only in the superior quadrant (P < 0.05). Average RNFL and RNFL in all quadrants showed a small negative correlation with the severity of DR and it was statistically significant (P < 0.001). Conclusion: In our study, peripapillary RNFL thickness was reduced in diabetic retinopathy compared to normal controls and the thinning increased with the severity of DR. This was evident in the superior quadrant even before the fundus signs of DR set in

Scrub Typhus Presenting as Subdural Hemorrhage with Normal Platelet Counts: A Rare Case Presentation

Scrub typhus is a common zoonotic disease with high case fatality rate. The clinical presentation of this disease may vary from acute febrile illness, thrombocytopenia, gastrointestinal manifestations, coagulopathy to neurological manifestations. The common neurological manifestations are meningitis and meningoencephalitis, whereas subdural hemorrhage, cerebrovascular accident, i.e., intracerebral hemorrhage, infarct, subarachnoid hemorrhage, etc. are among rare neurological presentations. Scrub typhus-induced neurological disease should be investigated to provide a timely and appropriate diagnosis and to reduce the mortality in complicated scrub typhus infection. Here we report a case of scrub typhus complicated with subdural hemorrhage admitted in our hospital.

Rationalizing the Use of COVID-19 Questionable Efficacy Drugs in a Low Middle-income Country: A Hospital Tocilizumab Committee Experience

Background: Only corticosteroids have confirmed mortality benefits in coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19). Rational use of costlier drugs with questionable benefits poses a great concern to hospital pharmacies in low middle-income countries.Aim: The present study aimed to assess the rational utilization of hospital supply tocilizumab and understand its clinical benefits in hospitalized COVID-19 pneumonia patients. Methods: The Hospital Tocilizumab Committee (HTC) decision support system framework was developed to make patients eligible or ineligible for tocilizumab procurement from the hospital pharmacy. A total of 33 consecutive patients receiving tocilizumab were analyzed retrospectively in the 3-month study period. The records of the inpatient stay of the patients were observed for pulse, blood pressure, respiratory rate (RR), oxygen saturation (SpO2), fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) laboratory work-up, hospital stay duration, and mortality benefit, if any. Patients were analyzed as ”died,” ”survived,” and ”composite” subgroups.Results: The study observed death as a final outcome in 48% of patients. The study observed a significant effect of tocilizumab on C-reactive protein (CRP) (p = 0.02) and ferritin (p = 0.018) levels on a 10-day follow-up when all patients were analyzed together. Rising and declining trends of RR and FiO2 were observed among the “died” (RR, p = 0.02; FiO2, p = 0.03) and survived (RR, p = 0.03; FiO2, p = 0.05) subgroups. The second dose of tocilizumab was received by 88% of survivors as against 50% of patients who died (p = 0.04).Conclusion: Hospital Tocilizumab Committee (HTC) was successfully established to continue the assessment of the costlier drug with uncertain treatment benefits. A repeat dose of tocilizumab may provide a mortality benefit in Asian Indians.

Clinical features and visual outcomes of pediatric optic neuritis in the Indian population: A prospective study

Purpose: Optic neuritis, defined as inflammation of the optic nerve, is the most common optic neuropathy affecting adults. Various studies in Southeast Asia have shown that the clinical profile of optic neuritis might differ in these regions from that reported in the western literature. Through this study, we evaluate the clinical profile of pediatric optic neuritis (PON) in the Indian population. Methods: This was a hospital?based prospective observational study. Patients with optic neuritis younger than 16 years who attended the neuro?ophthalmology clinic from May 2016 to April 2017 were included in the study. Results: This study included 54 eyes of 38 patients. The mean age of presentation was 10.6 years. Unilateral disease (58%) was found to be more common, and a slight female preponderance (58%) was noted. The most common feature was visual loss (96.3%). Pupillary light reflex abnormality was seen in most patients. Fundus examination revealed disk edema (77.7%) to be the most common feature. Neuroimaging was performed in 34 patients, and multiple sclerosis was diagnosed in four patients. At 3 months follow?up after treatment, 89% of eyes had best correct visual acuity of 6/9 or better (P < 0.001). Conclusion: In our study, we found the clinical profile of PON to be similar to that seen in western studies as well as those done previously in the Indian population, although with a few differences

Epidemiology, Clinical Profile, Intensive Care Needs and Outcome in Children with SARS-CoV-2 Infection Admitted to a Tertiary Hospital During the First and Second Waves of the COVID-19 Pandemic in India

Objectives To compare the epidemiological, clinical profle, intensive care needs and outcome of children hospitalized with SARS-CoV-2 infection during the frst and second waves of the pandemic. Methods This was a retrospective study of all children between 1 mo and 14 y, admitted to a dedicated COVID-19 hospital (DCH) during the frst (1st June to 31st December 2020) and second waves (1st March to 30th June 2021). Results Of 217 children, 104 (48%) and 113 (52%) were admitted during the frst and second waves respectively. One hundred ffty-two (70%) had incidentally detected SARS-CoV-2 infection, while 65 (30%) had symptomatic COVID-19. Comorbidities were noted in 137 (63%) children. Fifty-nine (27%) and 66 (30%) children required high-dependency unit (HDU) and ICU care respectively. Severity of infection and ICU needs were similar during both waves. High-fow oxygen (n=5, 2%), noninvasive ventilation [CPAP (n=34, 16%) and BiPAP (n=8, 5%)] and invasive ventilation (n=45, 21%) were respiratory support therapies needed. NIV use was more during the second wave (26% vs. 13%; p=0.02). The median (IQR) length (days) of DCH stay among survivors was longer during the frst wave [8 (6–10) vs. 5.5 (3–8); p=0.0001]. Conclusions Disease severity, associated comorbidities, PICU and organ support need and mortality were similar in the frst and second waves of the pandemic. Children admitted during the second wave were younger, had higher proportion of NIV use and shorter length of COVID-19 hospital stay.

Clinical outcomes of MANTA vs suture-based vascular closure devices after transcatheter aortic valve replacement: An updated meta-analysis

Objective: A recently published randomized control trial showed different results with suture-based vascular closure device (VCD) than plug-based VCD in patients undergoing transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). The learning curve for MANTA device is steep, while the learning curve for suture based VCD is shallow as the devices are quite different. In this meta-analysis, we have compared suture-based (ProGlide and Prostar XL) vs plug-based VCDs (MANTA). Methods: We performed a meta-analysis of all published studies (using PubMed/Medline and Cochrane databases) reporting the clinical outcome of plug-based vs suture-based VCDs in transfemoral TAVR patients. Results: We included nine studies with a total of 2865 patients (plug-based n ¼ 1631, suture-based n ¼ 1234). There was no significant difference in primary outcome of all bleeding when using plugbased as opposed to suture-based VCDs (RR 1.14 [0.62e2.06] I2 ¼ 72%). There was no significant difference in the incidence of secondary outcomes between two groups including major life threatening bleeding (RR 1.16 [0.38e3.58] I2 ¼ 65%), major vascular complications (RR 0.84 [0.35e2.00] I2 ¼ 55%), minor vascular complications (RR 1.05 [0.56e1.95] I2 ¼ 42%), pseudo aneurysm (RR 1.84 [0.11e29.98] I 2 ¼ 44%), stenosis-dissection (RR 0.98 [0.66e1.47] I2 ¼ 0%), VCD failure (RR 1.71 [0.96e3.04] I2 ¼ 0%), and blood transfusion (RR 1.01 [0.38e2.71], I2 ¼ 61%). Conclusion: Large bore arteriotomy closure with plug-based VCD was not superior to suture-based VCDs in this transfemoral TAVR population. There was very frequent use of secondary VCDs in suture-based VCD group which is not practical when using MANTA. Additional high-powered studies are required to determine the safety and efficacy of MANTA device.

Erythropoietin as a treatment option for indirect traumatic optic neuropathy: A pilot study

Purpose: Our study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of intravenous erythropoietin (EPO) in patients with indirect traumatic optic neuropathy (TON), assess the side effects, and compare the visual function results among three groups of patients who had received different treatment options – EPO, steroids, and observation. Methods: Patients with indirect TON presenting to the neuro?ophthalmology clinic from August 2019 to March 2020, were assigned to three groups, with six patients in each group. In group 1, patients were recruited prospectively and received recombinant human erythropoietin, whereas, in groups 2 and 3, patients were recruited retrospectively and received intravenous methylprednisolone followed by oral steroids and multivitamins, respectively. Groups 1 and 2 included patients presenting within 2 weeks of trauma, whereas group 3 included those presenting beyond that. Best?corrected visual acuity, pupillary reaction, color vision, and visual fields following treatment were measured. Results: Initial visual acuity in the EPO group ranged from 20/80 to no perception of light (No PL). The mean initial BCVA (1.82 logMAR, standard deviation [SD] = 0.847) improved to 1.32, SD = 0.93 logMAR after treatment recorded at the third month (P = 0.0375), with no significant adverse effects. The initial BCVA of group 2 ranged from 20/120 to No PL. The mean initial BCVA (1.95, SD = 0.77 logMAR) improved to 1.45 logMAR, SD = 0.97 after treatment (P = 0.0435) but three patients had side effects of steroids. Initial visual acuity in Group 3 ranged from 20/40 to no PL. The mean initial BCVA (1.09 logMAR, SD = 1.10) worsened to 1.19 logMAR, SD = 1.06 after treatment after treatment (P = 0.0193). The improvement in BCVA when compared between the three groups was not significant. Conclusion: Both erythropoietin and steroids are effective in the management of traumatic optic neuropathy. However, erythropoietin shows lesser or no side effects when compared to steroids

A Rodential Reckoning: A Case Report and Systematic Review of Streptobacillary Endocarditis

ABSTRACT Introduction Endocarditis is a rare, often fatal complication of rat bite fever caused by Streptobacillus moniliformis. Only 39 cases have been reported (including this case) as of 2022. We describe a case and aim to perform this entit's first systematic literature review. Methods We performed a systematic review in CENTRAL, EMBASE, MEDLINE, SciELO, and LILACS. The terms used were terms used were (but not limited to) rat bite fever, Streptobacillus moniliformis, Spirillum minus, and endocarditis. We included all abstracts and articles with patients with echocardiographic or histologic-proven endocarditis. In case of discordance, a third reviewer was involved. Our protocol was submitted to PROSPERO (CRD42022334092). We also performed searches for studies on the reference list of included articles. Results We retrieved 108 and included 36 abstracts and articles. A total of 39 patients (including our report) were identified. The mean age was 41.27, and 61.5% were males. The most common findings were fever, murmur, arthralgias, fatigue, splenomegaly, and rash. Underlying heart disease was present in 33%. Exposure to rats was noted in 71.8% of patients, with 56.4% recalling a rat bite. Anemia was seen in 57%, leukocytosis in 52%, and elevated inflammatory markers in 58% that had lab work performed. The mitral valve was most affected, followed by the aortic, tricuspid, and pulmonary valves. Surgical intervention was required in 14 (36%) cases. Of those, 10 required valve replacement. Death was reported in 36% of cases. Unfortunately, the literature available is limited to case series and reports. Conclusion Our review allows clinicians to suspect better, diagnose, and manage Streptobacillary endocarditis.

Improving the quality of external cause of death data in Brazil: evaluation and validation of a new form to investigate garbage codes / Melhorando a qualidade dos dados de causa externa de morte no Brasil: avaliação e validação de um novo formulário para investigar códigos garbage / Mejora en la calidad de los datos de causa externa de muerte en Brasil: evaluación y validación de un nuevo formulario para investigar códigos garbage

Garbage codes, such as external causes with no specific information, indicate poor quality cause of death data. Investigation of garbage codes via an effective instrument is necessary to convert them into useful data for public health. This study analyzed the performance and suitability of the new investigation of deaths from external causes (IDEC) form to improve the quality of external cause of death data in Brazil. The performance of the IDEC form on 133 external garbage codes deaths was compared with a stratified matched sample of 992 (16%) investigated deaths that used the standard garbage codes form. Consistency between these two groups was checked. The percentage of garbage codes from external causes reclassified into valid causes with a 95% confidence interval (95%CI) was analyzed. Reclassification for specific causes has been described. Qualitative data on the feasibility of the form were recorded by field investigators. Investigation using the new form reduced all external garbage codes by -92.5% (95%CI: -97.0; -88.0), whereas the existing form decreased garbage codes by -60.5% (95%CI: -63.5; -57.4). The IDEC form presented higher effectivity for external-cause garbage codes of determined intent. Deaths that remained garbage codes mainly lacked information about the circumstances of poisoning and/or vehicle accidents. Despite the fact that field investigators considered the IDEC form feasible, they suggested modifications for further improvement. The new form was more effective than the current standard form in improving the quality of defined external causes.

Códigos garbage (códigos inespecíficos ou incompletos), como causas externas sem informações específicas, indicam dados de má qualidade sobre a causa da morte. É necessário investigar os códigos garbage com um instrumento efetivo para convertê-los em dados úteis para a saúde pública. Este estudo analisou o desempenho e a adequação do novo formulário de investigação de óbitos por causas externas (IDEC) para melhorar a qualidade dos dados de causa externa de morte no Brasil. O desempenho deste formulário em 133 óbitos com códigos garbage de causas externas foi comparado com uma amostra estratificada e pareada de 992 (16%) óbitos investigados que utilizaram o formulário padrão de códigos garbage existente. A consistência entre esses dois grupos foi verificada. Analisou-se o percentual de códigos garbage de causas externas reclassificados em causas válidas com um intervalo de 95% de confiança (IC95%). A reclassificação para causas específicas foi descrita. Dados qualitativos sobre a viabilidade do formulário foram registrados por pesquisadores de campo. A investigação com o novo formulário reduziu todos os códigos garbage de causas externas em -92,5% (IC95%: -97,0; -88,0) enquanto o formulário existente diminuiu os códigos garbage em -60,5% (IC95%: -63,5; -57,4). O formulário IDEC foi mais eficaz para os códigos garbage de causa externa sem intenção indeterminada. As mortes que permaneceram como códigos garbage careciam principalmente de informações detalhadas sobre as circunstâncias do envenenamento e dos acidentes de trânsito. O formulário IDEC foi considerado viável pelos investigadores de campo, no entanto, eles sugeriram modificações para um maior aperfeiçoamento. O novo formulário foi mais eficaz do que o formulário padrão atual na melhoria da qualidade das causas externas definidas.

Códigos garbage (códigos inespecíficos o incompletos), como causas externas inespecíficas, son los indicadores de datos de mala calidad sobre la causa de muerte. Es necesario investigar los códigos garbage con un instrumento eficaz para convertirlos en datos útiles para la salud pública. Este estudio analizó el desempeño y la adecuación del nuevo formulario de investigación de muertes por causas externas (IDEC) para mejorar la calidad de los datos de causa externa de muerte en Brasil. El desempeño de este formulario en 133 muertes con códigos garbage de causas externas se comparó con una muestra estratificada y emparejada de 992 (16%) muertes investigadas que usaron el formulario estándar de códigos garbage existente. Se comprobó la consistencia entre estos dos grupos. Se analizó el porcentaje de códigos garbage por causas externas reclasificados en causas válidas con un intervalo del 95% de confianza (IC95%). Se procedió a una reclasificación por causas específicas. Los datos cualitativos sobre la viabilidad del formulario fueron registrados por investigadores de campo. La investigación con el nuevo formulario tuvo una reducción de todos los códigos garbage de causas externas en -92,5% (IC95%: -97,0; -88,0), mientras que el formulario existente redujo todos los códigos garbage de causas externas en -60,5% (IC95%: -63,5; -57,4). El formulario IDEC fue el más efectivo para códigos garbage de causa externa sin intención indeterminada. Las muertes que quedaron como códigos garbage carecían principalmente de información detallada sobre las circunstancias de envenenamiento y de accidentes de tránsito. Los investigadores de campo confirmaron la viabilidad del formulario IDEC, además de sugerir modificaciones para mejorarlo. El nuevo formulario fue el más efectivo que el formulario estándar actual en cuanto a la mejora de la calidad de las causas externas definidas.

Comparison of obturation quality, instrumentation time and post-operative pain using manual K-files and pediatric rotary files in primary molars ­ a double blinded randomised clinical trial / Comparação da qualidade de obturação, tempo de instrumentação e dor pós-operatória usando Limas manuais K e Limas rotativas pediátricas em molares decíduos ­ um estudo clínico randomizado duplo-cego

Objective: to compare the quality of obturation, instrumentation time and post-operative pain after pulpectomy in primary molars using manual K-files, Kedo-S and Kedo-S Square rotary file systems. Material and Methods: a double blinded randomized control trial was conducted in 45 children, who were indicated for pulpectomy in any one of the primary mandibular molars. The canal preparation was done using either hand K-files, Kedo-S files, or Kedo-S Square files based on the groups assigned. The time taken for instrumentation was recorded using a stopwatch. The quality of obturation was evaluated using post-operative radiograph and post-operative pain was assessed with modified Wong-Baker Faces Pain scale. Results: instrumentation time was minimum in rotary Kedo-S Square files (53.23 ± 9.60 seconds) followed by Kedo-S files (82.70 ± 11.86 seconds). The preparation time was maximum with manual K-files (121.43 ± 20.18 seconds). Kedo-S square files provided a higher number of optimally filled canals (66.4%). All the three instrumentations equally showed the tendency to produce voids in the obturation. Rotary files Kedo-S Square followed by Kedo-S showed less post-operative pain compared to K-files. Conclusion: the use of pediatric rotary instruments for canal preparation during pulpectomy will result in better quality of obturation in reduced time with least post-operative pain (AU)

Objetivo: comparar a qualidade de obturação, tempo de instrumentação e dor pós-operatória após pulpectomia em molares decíduos usando limas manuais K, limas rotatórias Kedo-S e limas rotatórias Kedo-S Square. Material e Métodos: um estudo clínico randomizado duplo-cego foi conduzido com 45 crianças que foram submetidas à pulpectomia de algum molar decíduo indicado. A preparação do canal foi feita usando limas manuais K, ou limas Kedo-S, ou ainda Limas Kedo-S Square, com base nos grupos que foram selecionados. O tempo para a instrumentação foi registrado com um cronômetro. A qualidade de obturação foi avaliada por meio de uma radiografia após o procedimento e a dor pós-operatória foi avaliada com a escala de dor Wong-Baker Faces modificada. Resultados: o tempo de instrumentação foi mínimo para as limas rotatórias Kedo-S Square (53,23 ± 9,60 segundos) seguido pelas limas Kedo-S (82,70 ± 11,86 segundos). O tempo de preparação foi maior com as limas manuais K (121,43 ± 20,18 segundos). As limas Kedo-S Square promoveram um maior número de canais otimamente obturados (66,4%). Todas as três instrumentações mostraram igualmente a tendência em seproduzir vazios na obturação. As limas rotatórias Kedo-S Square seguidas pelas limas Kedo-S produziram menos dor pós-operatória comparadas às limas manuais K. Conclusão: o uso de instrumentos rotatórios pediátricos para a preparação do canal durante a pulpectomia resultará em melhor qualidade de obturação em tempo reduzido e com menos dor pós-operatória. (AU)

Polygenic Risk Score for Cardiovascular Diseases in Artificial Intelligence Paradigm: A Review

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) related mortality and morbidity heavily strain society. The relationship between external risk factors and our genetics have not been well established.It is widely acknowledged that environmental influence and individual behaviours play a significant role in CVD vulnerability, leading to the development of polygenic risk scores (PRS). We employed the PRISMA search method to locate pertinent research and literature to extensively review artificial intelligence (AI)-based PRS models for CVD risk prediction.Furthermore, we analyzed and compared conventional vs. AI-based solutions for PRS. We summarized the recent advances in our understanding of the use of AI-based PRS for risk prediction of CVD. Our study proposes three hypotheses: i) Multiple genetic variations and risk factors can be incorporated into AI-based PRS to improve the accuracy of CVD risk predicting. ii) AI-based PRS for CVD circumvents the drawbacks of conventional PRS calculators by incorporating a larger variety of genetic and non-genetic components, allowing for more precise and individualised risk estimations. iii) Using AI approaches, it is possible to significantly reduce the dimensionality of huge genomic datasets, resulting in more accurate and effective disease risk prediction models. Our study highlighted that the AI-PRS model outperformed traditional PRS calculators in predicting CVD risk. Furthermore, using AI-based methods to calculate PRS may increase the precision of risk predictions for CVD and have significant ramifications for individualized prevention and treatment plans.

Genetics in prenatal diagnosis

The options for prenatal genetic testing have evolved rapidly in the past decade, and advances in sequencing technology now allow genetic diagnoses to be made down to the single-base-pair level, even before the birth of the child. This offers women the opportunity to obtain information regarding the foetus, thereby empowering them to make informed decisions about their pregnancy. As genetic testing becomes increasingly available to women, clinician knowledge and awareness of the options available to women is of great importance. Additionally, comprehensive pretest and posttest genetic counselling about the advantages, pitfalls and limitations of genetic testing should be provided to all women. This review article aims to cover the range of genetic tests currently available in prenatal screening and diagnosis, their current applications and limitations in clinical practice as well as what the future holds for prenatal genetics.

Long-term real-world outcomes in retinal vein occlusions: How close are we to the trials?

Purpose: To assess and analyze the visual outcomes of patients with retinal vein occlusions in a real?world setting with a long?term follow?up of more than 5 years. Methods: Retrospective analysis of 56 patients having retinal vein occlusions from a tertiary eye center, with a mean follow?up of 7 years was performed. Primary outcome measures were mean change in best?corrected visual acuity (BCVA) from baseline at 6 months, 1 year, 2 years, 3 years, and final visit (?5 years), proportion of patients having BCVA better than 20/40 and worse than 20/200, and mean number of injections. Secondary outcome measures were change in central macular thickness (CMT), development of subsequent retinal vein occlusion (RVO) in same eye or the other eye, and development of neovascular complications. Results: The mean change in letter score was + 11.84 in branch RVO (BRVO), +7.14 in non?ischemic central RVO (CRVO), and ?9.5 in ischemic CRVO at 1 year, which changed to + 8.57, ?5 and ? 24, respectively, at the end of follow?up. CMT had improved from 506 ± 98.8 ?m, 576.44 ± 149 ?m, and 618 ± 178.27 ?m, respectively, at baseline to 267 ± 94 ?m, 345.20 ± 122.61 ?m, and 265.50 ± 107.75 ?m, respectively, in BRVO, non?ischemic, and ischemic hemi RVO (HRVO)/CRVO groups. The total mean number of injections given in BRVO, non?ischemic CRVO, and ischemic CRVO groups were 4.6, 6.6, and 4.1, respectively. None of the patients with BRVO developed neovascular glaucoma (NVG). Non?ischemic to ischemic HRVO/CRVO conversion was noted in 4/11 eyes at a mean duration of 12.6 months. NVG was noted in 7/9 eyes (77.8%) in initial ischemic CRVO/HRVO group and 3/4 (75%) converted eyes. Conclusion: Patients with BRVO have good visual outcomes with anti?VEGF, while in CRVO results may vary considerably owing to patient compliance and treatment burden on long?term follow?up in a real?world setting

Clinical profile and outcome of paraquat poisoning at a tertiary care centre in North Karnataka, a retrospective observational study

Background: Paraquat is a herbicide commonly used for controlling weeds in India. The primary target organs for paraquat poisoning are the lungs and the kidneys. Acute cases of poisoning with paraquat are admitted to the hospital with various stages of acute kidney injury. Aim: To study the clinical presentation and outcome of paraquat poisoning in a tertiary care setting. Materials and Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted at SDM College of Medical Sciences and Hospital, Dharwad. In this study we included the data of all patients admitted to the hospital with paraquat poisoning for a period of three-year and four months between January 2018 to April 2021. Results: A total of 12 participants were included in the final analysis. All the patients consumed paraquat with the suicidal intention only. The quantity of paraquat ingested was quite varied, ranging from as low as 5ml to as high as 200ml. Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) was diagnosed in 58.3% of patients. Among which three patients were in stage 1, one was in stage 2, and three were in stage 3. The mortality rate was 58.33%. The major cause of death for these patients was multiple organ dysfunction syndromes (71.42 %). Conclusion: Acute kidney injury is the major clinical outcome of paraquat poisoning other than lung injury. This may result in multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) and mortality. Paraquat poisoning is due to consumption with suicidal intent. Most of them were young. Early management with hemoperfusion may have a positive effect on reducing mortality.

Cord blood and serial lactate levels in predicting short-term outcome in term new-born babies with perinatal asphyxia

Introduction: Birth asphyxia is a leading cause of neonatal deaths across the globe. Clinical examination, Apgar score, pH, EEG/aEEG, Lactate are being used as markers for prediction of outcome. Serum Lactate is a better reflector of metabolic mechanism. We intend to study cord blood lactate and serial lactate levels in term birth asphyxia babies. Aim: To determine correlation between cord blood lactate, serial lactate levels and short term outcome in term new-born babies with perinatal asphyxia. Materials and Methods: It was a prospective, observational study. Thirty term babies with birth asphyxia were selected. Their Cord blood lactate, serum lactate at 6, 12, 24 hours of life were correlated to short term outcomes (NICU stay, shock, Acute kidney injury, mortality). Results: Eighteen babies with moderate asphyxia and 12 with severe asphyxia had mean cord blood lactate of 10.4mmol/L and 13.47mmol/L respectively. There was difference in mean lactate levels at 6, 12, 24 hours of life between the babies who survived and expired; also survivors had significant reduction in mean lactate levels at various time points. Babies with moderate asphyxia had no shock and AKI. Babies with severe asphyxia and shock had mean lactate levels of 12mmol/L in survivors and 13.8mmol/L in who expired. Babies with severe asphyxia and AKI had mean lactate of 14mmol/L in survivors and 14.6mmol/L in who expired. Babies with moderate asphyxia had no mortality. In babies with severe asphyxia, survivors had mean lactate of 12.74mmol/L and 14mmol/L in babies who expired. There was no correlation between the lactate levels and the length of the NICU stay. Conclusion: Serial lactate levels can be used to predictor the short term prognosis in term babies with perinatal asphyxia. There was significant difference in mean lactate levels between the babies who survived and expired. Serial lactate levels showed significant reduction in babies who survived.