"Are We Feeding Them Enough?" Micronutrient Deficiency in Children Aged Six Months to Fourteen Years in India.

In this study, we conducted a systematic literature review of the various micronutrient deficiencies (MNDs) that affect children in India and an examination of whether there is a geographic basis for MNDs. MNDs are a common problem in the developing world, in particular, among children in South Asia. According to the United Nations Children's Fund, millions of children suffer from stunted growth, cognitive delays, weakened immunity, and diseases because of MNDs. These physical ailments have several economic, social, and public health implications, and they can severely hamper a country's growth. This study aims to clarify existing data on this topic and highlight the disparities between children living in urban and rural areas in India. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines were followed to conduct this systematic literature review of a total of five studies. Study quality was assessed using appropriate checklists, and the studies strengthened the hypothesis that MNDs are common among children in India. Because the selected studies were heterogeneous, no statistical conclusions are drawn here. However, a central premise is that MNDs in children are prevalent in India and are related to poverty. No link between geographic location and MNDs is established; rather, recommendations are made for further research on the topic.

An Emerging Facet of Diabetes Mellitus: The Nexus of Gastrointestinal Disorders.

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder with a multi-systemic involvement, the gastrointestinal (GI) system being one of them. In this study, we have compiled and analyzed findings from various studies to conclude that peripheral insulin resistance and hyperglycemia are the two key factors that play a role in the pathogenesis of the web of disorders associated with diabetes. These two key factors, when clubbed with autoimmunity, autonomic neuropathy, and genetic and environmental factors, play a substantial role in the development of GI disorders in DM. This article examines GI disorders such as gastric autonomic neuropathy, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), celiac disease (CD), etc. It also highlights the importance of regular screening and assessment of DM in preventing the GI tangent of the disease. A prompt blood glucose control through lifestyle modifications, dietary management, and weight reduction, coupled with pharmacotherapy for existing DM, can lead to a better outcome and an optimistic perspective on the disease.

Extra-Intestinal Manifestations of Inflammatory Bowel Disease.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is associated with extra-intestinal manifestations (EIMs) that tend to parallel intestinal activity and have a debilitating effect on the quality of life. EIMs primarily affect the joints, skin, and eyes with less frequent involvement of the liver, kidney, and pancreas. This article reviews the prevalence of musculoskeletal, dermatological, ocular, and other manifestations in IBD and their coalition with underlying intestinal inflammation. EIMs occurring independently of intestinal activity are managed by targeted therapies, categorical regimens, and specific treatments. On the other hand, EIMs paralleling the bowel activity are carefully monitored while the IBD is brought under control. Since the etiology of the disease is responsible for the development of the EIMs, the research scrutinizes the identified pathogenic mechanisms that tend to involve genetic susceptibility, aberrant self-recognition, and autoantibodies directed against organ-specific antigens shared by intestinal and extra-intestinal organs. This article also provides an overview of the epidemiology, clinical features, diagnostic modalities, and management of the EIMs associated with IBD.

Systemic Sclerosis: Highlighting Respiratory Complications and Significance of Early Screening.

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease that leads the patient to have a diverse clinical presentation encompassing several systems and a worse prognosis, mainly when complications arise. Most SSc-related deaths are caused by pulmonary hypertension (PH) and interstitial lung disease (ILD). This article focuses on pulmonary artery hypertension (PAH) and ILD as pulmonary consequences of SSc. We examined the grave effects regarding SSc's respiratory complications, which are concealed by the disease's clinical heterogeneity. In this article, we briefly reviewed the discussion of clinical features and management and the mortality associated with the sequelae. We further addressed the benefits and significance of screening for the disease and associated respiratory complications in SSc patients in this study.

Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 (SGLT-2) Inhibitors: Delving Into the Potential Benefits of Cardiorenal Protection Beyond the Treatment of Type-2 Diabetes Mellitus.

Diabetes mellitus is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality and a significant risk factor for the early onset of chronic kidney disease and heart disease. Hyperglycemia and insulin resistance are key factors that play a role in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes. Renal glucose reabsorption is a critical component of glycemic regulation. Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, commonly known as gliflozins, lower blood sugar levels by inhibiting glucose absorption in the proximal tubule of the kidney. SGLT2 inhibitors are currently used primarily as antidiabetic medications; however, their advantages go well beyond just glycemic control. This article has reviewed the mechanisms behind cardiac and renal involvement in type 2 diabetes and their inseparable interconnections. This article has also discussed the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profile of different SGLT2 inhibitors available in the market. Finally, this review has provided a perspective on the outcome trials, which provide evidence supporting a potential benefit of SGLT2 inhibitors in reducing cardiovascular and renal risks and possible mechanisms that mediate the renal and cardiovascular protection conferred.

Proton Pump Inhibitors: Exploring Cardiovascular Complications and Prescription Protocol.

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are among the most extensively prescribed medications internationally for gastroesophageal reflux disease treatment and the prevention of gastrointestinal bleeding. Their efficiency, ease of availability, and low side effect profile offer several advantages over other treatment modalities. Long-term use and inappropriate prescribing habits have increased the presence of this class of drugs, prompting several studies to reassess their adverse effects. This article explored the possibility of a relationship between PPIs and cardiovascular adverse effects while highlighting the current prescription guidelines for PPIs. We further examined the need for more research into the etiology of PPI-related cardiovascular adverse effects and strategies to alleviate these risks.

Sickle Cell Disease and the Respiratory System: A Tangential Perspective to the Hematopulmonological Dilemma.

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a genetically inherited hematological condition that predominantly affects the African-American subset of the population. It leads to the precipitation of multi-systematic manifestations throughout the course of the life of the patient leading to an increased rate of inpatient admissions and decreased quality of life. This article has reviewed some of the most common pulmonary complications of SCD with a brief overview of the clinical features and their management and has also highlighted the fatality of the complications placing a strong focus on screening, monitoring, and the treatment of the disease. The article has also discussed the management of SCD from a pulmonological perspective rather than hematological alone.