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We present a 54-year-old Caucasian woman, who presented with acute symptomatic type B aortic dissection with deteriorating renal function. She was a known smoker with a 2-year history of dysphagia. CT angiography documented the artery of lusoria arising from the mid-thoracic aorta, aneurysmal dilation of her descending aorta, and kinetic and static flaps around her visceral ostia. The patient was managed by staged hybrid single lumen reconstruction and bilateral subclavian to carotid transpositions. During follow-up, there was no aortic rupture or retrograde type A dissection. There were no renal, visceral, cardiac, pulmonary or spinal complications. The patient went off her antihypertensive medication with a normal estimated glomerular filtration rate and accelerated aortic modulation.

Background Shock affects one-third of patients admitted to intensive care and is associated with increased mortality. Vasopressor medications are used to maintain blood pressure in shock. Central venous catheters are associated with serious complications and pose logistical difficulties for insertion. Delivery of vasopressors via peripheral intravenous cannula may be a safe alternative. Methods This is a retrospective cohort study comparing safety profile and outcomes of vasopressor delivery via peripheral and central routes in critically ill patients over a 12-month period in a mixed medical-surgical intensive care unit. Demographics, clinical characteristics, treatments, and safety outcome data were extracted from medical records. Patients were classified into three groups: vasopressor infusions via peripheral intravenous cannula, combined peripheral intravenous cannula followed by central venous catheter, and central venous catheter only. Groups were compared using the Kruskal–Wallis test for continuous variables and Fisher's exact test for categorical variables. The impact of duration of vasopressor infusion on complication rates was assessed using logistic regression. Results We identified 212 patients who received vasopressor infusion, 39 received via peripheral only (Group 1), 155 via peripheral followed by central (Group 2), and 18 via central only (Group 3). There were some baseline differences between groups. Group 1 had the lowest median Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation III score (64, interquartile range = 44–77), and Group 3, the highest (86, interquartile range = 57–101). Duration of vasopressor infusion was shortest in Group 1 and longer in Groups 2 and 3. There were no major complications; however, minor complications such as leakage, extravasation, and erythema occurred in 41% of Group 1 and 28% of Group 2 patients. Duration of peripheral vasopressor infusion was not associated with an increased risk of complications. Conclusions Administration of vasopressor infusions for short duration in critically ill patients via a peripheral venous cannula may be feasible, with low rates of complications, and offers a safe alternative to central venous access.

Background Since the last two decades, substantial increase in fungal infections has been observed in immunocompromised hosts. Virulence factors of Candida albicans play a role in adherence, haemolytic activity, phenotypic switching and production of hydrolytic enzymes. The secreted aspartyl proteinases (SAP family) contribute to adhesion, tissue damage and invasion, while phospholipase (PLB) supports the hydrolysis of phospholipids. Very few studies showed the correlation of phenotypic activity and detection of genes contributing to the similar enzyme activity. Therefore, our study aimed at demonstrating correlation between in vitro phenotypic production of phospholipase and proteinase enzymes with genetic level detection of SAP and PLB genes. Methods The present study was carried out on a total of 799 samples over a period of one year. Culturing was carried out on Sabouraud's dextrose agar. Confirmation and speciation of Candida spp. was carried out using cornmeal agar and CHROMagar and by the germ tube test, urease test and automated identification system Vitek-2, and antifungal susceptibility testing was performed on Candida isolates. Phenotypic phospholipase and proteinase activity was analysed, and molecular detection of SAP4 and PLB genes was carried out. Results In our study, we have screened 799 samples for mycological protocol; of which, 269 (33.6%) were Candida species, 44% (119) of which were C. albicans. Proteinase activity was exhibited by 77 (64.7%) and phospholipase activity was exhibited by 73 (61.34%) isolates, while 46.2% exhibited both activities among the C. albicans species. The PLB gene was detected in 97.3% isolates, while SAP4 was detected in 94.7% of C. albicans isolates. Conclusion The study of in vitro expression of virulence factors and gene detection of C. albicans will help to improve the prognosis despite the nature of the sample.

The authors hypothesized that quantitative computed tomography (QCT) imaging would reveal subclinical increases in lung congestion in patients with heart failure and preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and that this would be related to pulmonary vascular hemodynamic abnormalities.Gross evidence of lung congestion on physical examination, laboratory tests, and radiography is typically absent among compensated ambulatory patients with HFpEF. However, pulmonary gas transfer abnormalities are commonly observed and associated with poor outcomes.Patients referred for invasive hemodynamic exercise testing who had undergone chest computed tomography imaging within 1 month were identified (N = 137). A novel artificial intelligence QCT algorithm was used to measure pulmonary fluid content.Compared with control subjects with noncardiac dyspnea, patients with HFpEF displayed increased mean lung density (-758 HU [-793, -709 HU] vs -787 HU [-828, -747 HU]; P = 0.002) and a higher ratio of extravascular lung water to total lung volume (EVLWV/TLV) (1.25 [0.80, 1.76] vs 0.66 [0.01, 1.03]; P 0.0001) by QCT imaging, indicating greater lung congestion. EVLWV/TLV was directly correlated with pulmonary vascular pressures at rest, with stronger correlations observed during exercise. Patients with increasing tertiles of EVLWV/TLV demonstrated higher mean pulmonary artery pressures at rest (34 ± 11 mm Hg vs 39 ± 14 mm Hg vs 45 ± 17 mm Hg; P = 0.0003) and during exercise (55 ± 17 mm Hg vs 59 ± 17 mm Hg vs 69 ± 22 mm Hg; P = 0.0003).QCT imaging identifies subclinical lung congestion in HFpEF that is not clinically apparent but is related to abnormalities in pulmonary vascular hemodynamics. These data provide new insight into the long-term effects of altered hemodynamics on pulmonary structure and function in HFpEF.

Introduction: Globally hypertension is responsible for majority of mortality and morbidity among the non-communicable disease burden. A Community based cross sectional study was carried out to find the prevalence of hypertension, pre-hypertension and associated risk factors in the rural field practice area of Saveetha Medical College between January to March 2020. Methodology: The sample size calculated was 203 and equal numbers of participants between the age group of 30 to 60 years were selected from each of the 6 villages in field practice area by Stratified Random sampling method. A semi- structured pretested questionnaire was used for data collection. Results: The prevalence of hypertension and pre-hypertension was found to be 29.4% and 28.9% respectively. Major determinants of hypertension were age, marital status, diabetes mellitus, excess salt intake, sedentary lifestyle, stress, family history of hypertension and disturbed sleep pattern. Increased odds of hypertension were seen in marital status, diabetes mellitus and excess salt intake. Conclusion: Interventional measures done in the pre-hypertensive stage prevents risk of developing hypertension. Regular screening for high blood pressure, lifestyle modifications, treatment with antihypertensive medication are required to decrease the prevalence of hypertension in the community.

Uterocervical motions and organ filling during cervical cancer conformal radiotherapy is complex. This prospective, observational study investigated set-up margins (clinical target vo, ume [CTV] to planning target volume [PTV]) for pelvic nodal CTV and internal margin (CTV to internal target volume [ITV]) expansions for uterocervical movements during cervical cancer radiotherapy.During cervical cancer radiotherapy, a daily kilovoltage, cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scan was acquired. Bony anatomy-based rigid co-registration and matching to vessels/pelvic nodal region was carried out to document shifts, errors (systematic and random) and to calculate CTV to PTV margins. Subsequently, soft-tissue matching was carried out at the mid-cervical region and uterine fundus to record shifts, errors and to calculate CTV to ITV margins.In 67 patients, 1380 CBCT scans were analysed. The mean (±standard deviation) couch shifts for CTV pelvic nodal region in all directions were within 4.5-5.3 mm, systematic and random errors 3.0-3.6 mm and set-up margins of within 10 mm (except anterior margin 10.3 mm). For the mid-cervical region, mean shifts were 4.5-5.5 mm, systematic and random errors 2-4 mm amounting to10 mm internal margins (CTV-ITV for cervix) and for uterine fundus mean (±standard deviation) shifts were larger in the superior direction (12.1 mm) but 4.0-7.5 mm in other directions, systematic and random errors 2-7 mm amounting to anisotropic margins in various directions (10 mm in anterior-posterior and lateral directions, 12-20 mm in superior-inferior directions) (CTV-ITV for uterine fundus).Our study suggests anisotropic CTV to ITV and CTV to PTV margins for cervical cancer radiotherapy.

Introduction Enrolling patients with metastatic urothelial carcinoma (mUC) in phase I trials provides an opportunity to identify biological drug activity. Developing prognostic scores may aid in patient selection for phase 1 trials. Patients and Methods :We analyzed records of patients with mUC who participated in targeted therapy and immunotherapy phase I clinical trials at MD Anderson Cancer Center (MDACC). The Bellmunt and Bajorin scores were calculated as bladder cancer-specific prognostic scores. The Royal Marsden Hospital (RMH) and MDACC scores were calculated as phase I prognostic scores. Hazard ratios (HR) were calculated using the Cox proportional hazard model. The prognostic value of the Bellmunt, Bajorin, RMH, and MDACC scores were assessed using the Likelihood ratio (LR) χ2 test and the c-index. Results Between 2015 and 2019, 43 patients were enrolled in phase I trials and 12 were enrolled in >I trial leading to a total of 57 trial participants (TPs). Ninty-seven percent of TPs received prior platinum therapy and 60% received a prior checkpoint inhibitor. Median overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were significantly shorter with increasing Bajorin, RMH, or MDACC scores, but not with increasing Bellmunt score. The RMH (c-index=0.658, LR χ2=11.8, P=.008) and MDACC scores (c-index =0.66, LR χ2=12.76, P=.01) outperformed the Bajorin score (c-index=0.522, LR χ2=1.22, P=.5) and the Bellmunt score (c-index=0.537, LR χ2=0.36, P=.9) in predicting overall survivalover. The Bajorin, RMH, and MDACC scores, but not the Bellmunt score, were also predictive of progression-free survival (PFS)prog. The RMH and MDACC scores again outperformed the Bajorin scoreand the Bellmunt score for predicting PFS. Conclusion The RMH and MDACC phase I prognostic scores accurately predicted survival in patients with mUC and outperformed the bladder cancer-specific scores at time of enrollment on phase 1 clinical trials. The RMH and MDACC scores could optimize selection of patients with mUC for phase I clinical trials.

Stubble burning (SB) has been a major source of seasonal aerosol loading and pollution over northern India. The aftereffects of groundwater preservation act i.e., post 2010 era (2011–2020) has seen delay in crop harvesting thereby shifting the peak SB to May (Wheat SB) and to November (Paddy SB) by 8–10 and 10–12 days compared to pre-2010. Groundwater storage depletion rate of 29.2 mm yr−1 was observed over the region. Post 2010 era shows an increase of 1.4% in wheat SB and 21% in Paddy SB fires over Punjab and Haryana with 70% of PM2.5 air mass clusters (high probability > 0.8) advecting to the downwind regions leading to 23–26% increase in PM2.5 and 4–6% in aerosol loading over National Capital Region (NCR). Although the objective of water conservation policy was supposed to preserve the groundwater by delaying the paddy transplantation and sowing, on the contrary the implementation of this policy has seen groundwater storage after 2013 depleting at a rate of 29.2 mmyr−1 over these regions. Post policy implementation has led to shift and shrinking of harvest window with increased occurrences in SB fires which also increase associated particulate matter pollution over North India.

Background Hybrid Deep Venous ARterialisation (DVAR) is offered as a last-ditch attempt for limb salvage in patients with chronic limb threatening ischemia (CLTI). It provides non-selective arterialisation independent of the angiosome, which harnesses the complex venous capillary network bed developed in the leg and foot. Technical Summary We present two elderly men who underwent DVAR to salvage limb with CLTI. DVAR was performed by creating an arteriovenous connection by anastomosis of the great saphenous vein (GSV) at the level of the distal popliteal and proximal tibio-peroneal trunk. Fasciotomy was performed over the length of the GSV. Subsequently, proximal in-situ catheter valvotomies of the GSV valves were undergone with the adjuvant on-table balloon maturation. The distal tarsal veins underwent balloon valvotomy under direct vision with subsequent proximal and distal tarsal veins valvuloplasties. Completion angiogram demonstrated restoration of the flow in the foot and both the patients were relieved of rest pain. Conclusion We successfully performed DVAR in two elderly patients. Our experience shows that DVAR is a simple and safe option that is easily reproducible without the need for complex endovascular hardware, only if a suitable GSV to the foot is available with no history of deep vein thrombosis.

Covid-19 has become one of the most severe diseases causing the acute respiratory problems that has even killed millions of people worldwide. It was declared as the ongoing pandemic by the World Health Organization. It is an infectious virus which can be transmitted by sneezing, coughing and exhalation of air by any infected person. There are certain places where there are very high chances of rooms becoming contaminated like hospital rooms. In this context, we studied the transmission of covid-19 particles in an ICU room. In this paper, we have considered the combined effect of both of air-conditioning (AC) and a ceiling fan in the room. The infected person can transmit the disease when under influence of fan and AC, the work highlights the flow of aerosol particles considering the combined effect as well as the individual effects of fan and AC. The results also emphasized that the aerosol particles flow have a promising application in sanitizing the room.

Standardization of immunomodulation protocols has enabled ABO-incompatible liver transplants with outcomes similar to those of ABO-compatible liver transplants. Patients with the A2 blood group are unique because they have a diminished expression of the A antigen. Despite rare immune complications, this phenomenon of diminished expression has led to treatment of type A2 donors according to the regimen for type O blood group donors in ABO-incompatible liver transplants. Additionally, the requirement for pretransplant recipient immunomodulation is consi dered minimal when considering these donors. The transplant of a type A2 donor kidney to a type B recipient is well recognized; however, for liver donation the A2-to-B transplant is rare. Here, we present a case of 48-year-old male patient with blood group type B who underwent ABO-incompatible liver transplant of a right lobe liver graft from a type A2 donor. Postoperatively, despite adequate immunosuppression and initiation of thera - peutic plasma exchange, the patient developed severe and refractory antibody-mediated rejection that ultimately abated with a splenectomy. This report highlights the low but tangible risk of antibody-mediated rejection in ABO-incompatible liver transp lants from type A2 donors and emphasizes the importance of serial monitoring of anti-A isohemag glutinin titers and posttransplant splenectomy to ensure that liver grafts with antibody-mediated rejection can be rescued.

Background: Guillian--Barre' Syndrome (GBS) has been shown to be associated with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. The aim of our study was to study the clinical profile and outcomes of GBS in COVID-19 from the Western region of India, the State of Maharashtra. Methods: This was a retrospective, multicenter observation study from different hospitals in Maharashtra beginning from March 2020 until November 2020. Results: We report 42 patients with COVID-19 GBS. Mean age was 59 years (range, 24--85 years). 31/42 (73.8%) were men. GBS was the presenting symptom in 14/42 (33%), while six of them remained asymptomatic for COVID-19 despite positive SARS-CoV-2 on nasopharyngeal swab reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. The median interval between COVID-19 and GBS was 14 days (SD + 11), with minimum of 1 and maximum 40 days. Clinical presentation was like that of typical GBS. Electrophysiological studies showed a predominant demyelinating pattern in 25/42 (59.5%). Inflammatory markers were elevated in 35/42 (83.3%) and 38/42 (90.5%) had an Abnormal high-resolution CT (HRCT) chest. 14/42 (33.3%) patients required a ventilator, with nine deaths. Intravenous immunoglobulin was the mainstay of treatment for GBS. Majority had a good outcome and were walking independently or with minimal support at discharge. In subgroup analysis, the postinfectious group had a better outcome than the parainfectious group. Conclusion: GBS in COVID-19 occurs as both parainfectious and postinfectious GBS. Parainfectious GBS needs more rigorous monitoring and may benefit from COVID-19 specific treatment. Routine screening for SARS-CoV-2 should be implemented in patients with GBS in view of the ongoing pandemic.

Background The novel disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) score (platelet count, prolonged prothrombin time, D-dimer, and fibrinogen) and sepsis-induced coagulopathy (SIC) score (platelet count, international normalized ratio, and sequential organ failure assessment score) are markers of coagulopathy, which, for the first time, are explored in line with the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) disease outcomes. The correlation of D-dimer with these findings is also studied. Materials and methods A retrospective analysis of hospital-based records of 168 COVID-19 patients was done. Data including D-dimer, routine investigations, DIC, and SIC scorings (all within 3 days of admission) were collected and correlated with the outcomes. The study was conducted in a tertiary care center catering to North India's population. Results Higher DIC score (1.59 ± 1.18 vs 0.96 ± 1.18), SIC score (1.60 ± 0.89 vs 0.63 ± 0.99), and D-dimer titers (1321.33 ± 1627.89 vs 583·66 ± 777.71 ng/mL) were significantly associated with severe COVID-19 disease (p

BACKGROUND: The introduction of immune checkpoint inhibitors rapidly changed treatment for patients with metastatic clear cell renal cell carcinoma (mRCC). First-line treatment now includes multiple immuno-oncology (IO) combinations that were approved over a short time period and were not directly compared in randomized clinical trials. Thus, clinicians face a challenge in individualizing first-line treatment to optimize clinical outcomes. OBJECTIVE: We sought to systematically review clinical outcomes for first-line IO combinations for patients with mRCC. METHODS: Literature reporting outcomes from phase III clinical trials that evaluated first-line IO combination therapies was identified through a search of the PubMed electronic database following PRISMA guidelines. Abstracts were screened to identify manuscripts that fit the search criteria, and then, a descriptive review was performed. RESULTS: Our literature search identified 2,229 abstracts that met the initial search criteria, and then, it was narrowed to 431 abstracts using filters for “clinical trial” and a “ten year” time window. After review of the abstracts, six manuscripts were selected for data extraction and subsequent review. CONCLUSION: When compared to sunitinib, four IO combinations improved overall survival as first-line treatment, and five improved progression free survival for patients with mRCC. These IO combination therapies have unique characteristics, so clinicians should take into account patient and cancer factors to individualize treatment recommendations.

BACKGROUND: A warmup period of “priming” exercise has been shown to improve peripheral oxygen transport in older adults. We sought to determine the acute effects of priming exercise on central hemodynamics at rest and during a repeat exercise in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). METHODS AND RESULTS: This is a post-hoc analysis from three studies. Subjects with HFpEF (n=42) underwent cardiac catheterization with simultaneous expired gas analysis at rest and during exercise (20W for 5 minutes, “priming” exercise). Measurements were then repeated at rest and during a second bout of exercise at 20W workload (second exercise). During priming exercise, HFpEF subjects displayed dramatic increases in biventricular filling pressures and exercise-induced pulmonary hypertension. Following priming exercise at rest, biventricular filling pressures and pulmonary artery (PA) pressures were lower and lung tidal volume was increased. During the second bout of exercise, biventricular filling (PA wedge pressure, 29±8 mmHg at 2(nd) exercise vs. 32±7 mmHg at 1(st) exercise, p=0.0003) and PA pressures were lower, and PA compliance increased. CONCLUSIONS: This study shows that short duration, submaximal priming exercise attenuates the pathologic increases in filling pressures, improving pulmonary vascular hemodynamics at rest and during repeat exercise in HFpEF. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATIONS: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01932606, NCT02262078, NCT02885636.

Summary Background The role of radiotherapy in metastatic renal cell carcinoma is controversial. We prospectively tested the feasibility and efficacy of radiotherapy to defer systemic therapy for patients with oligometastatic renal cell carcinoma. Methods This single-arm, phase 2, feasibility trial was done at one centre in the USA (The MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA). Patients (aged ≥18 years) with five or fewer metastatic lesions, an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group status of 0–2, and no more than one previous systemic therapy (if this therapy was stopped at least 1 month before enrolment) without limitations on renal cell carcinoma histology were eligible for inclusion. Patients were treated with stereotactic body radiotherapy (defined as ≤5 fractions with ≥7 Gy per fraction) to all lesions and maintained off systemic therapy. When lesion location precluded safe stereotactic body radiotherapy, patients were treated with hypofractionated intensity-modulated radiotherapy regimes consisting of 60–70 Gy in ten fractions or 52·5–67·5 Gy in 15 fractions. Additional rounds of radiotherapy were allowed to treat subsequent sites of progression. Co-primary endpoints were feasibility (defined as all planned radiotherapy completed with ClinicalTrials.gov , NCT03575611 . Findings 30 patients (six [20%] women) were enrolled from July 13, 2018, to Sept 18, 2020. All patients had clear cell histology and had a nephrectomy before enrolment. All patients completed at least one round of radiotherapy with less than 7 days of unplanned breaks. At a median follow-up of 17·5 months (IQR 13·2–24·6), median progression-free survival was 22·7 months (95% CI 10·4–not reached; 1-year progression-free survival 64% [95% CI 48–85]). Three (10%) patients had severe adverse events: two grade 3 (back pain and muscle weakness) and one grade 4 (hyperglycaemia) adverse events were observed. There were no treatment-related deaths. Interpretation Sequential radiotherapy might facilitate deferral of systemic therapy initiation and could allow sustained systemic therapy breaks for select patients with oligometastatic renal cell carcinoma. Funding Anna Fuller Foundation, the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT), and the National Cancer Institute.

Lung epithelial lining fluid (ELF) harbors a variety of proteins that influence homeostatic and stress responses in the airspaces. Exosomes, nano-sized extracellular vesicles, contain many proteins that vary in abundance and composition based on the prevailing conditions. Ozone causes inflammatory responses in the airspaces of experimental animals and humans. However, the exosomal protein signatures contained within the ELF from ozone-exposed lung airspaces remain poorly characterized. To explore this, we hypothesized that ozone triggers the release of exosome-bound inflammatory proteins from various cells that reflect mucoobstructive lung disease. Accordingly, we repetitively exposed adult male and female C57BL/6 mice to HEPA-filtered air (air) or 0.8 ppm ozone (4 h per day) for 14 days (five consecutive days of exposure, 2 days of rest, five consecutive days of exposure, 2 days of rest, four consecutive days of exposure). Exosome-bound proteomic signatures, as well as the levels of soluble inflammatory mediators in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), were determined 12–16 h after the last exposure. Principal component analyses of the exosome-bound proteome revealed a clear distinction between air-exposed and ozone-exposed mice, as well as between ozone-exposed males and ozone-exposed females. In addition to 575 proteins that were enriched in both sexes upon ozone exposure, 243 and 326 proteins were enriched uniquely in ozone-exposed males and females, respectively. Ingenuity pathway analyses on enriched proteins between ozone- and air-exposed mice revealed enrichment of pro-inflammatory pathways. More specifically, macrophage activation-related proteins were enriched in exosomes from ozone-exposed mice. Cytokine analyses on the BALF revealed elevated levels of G-CSF, KC, IP-10, IL-6, and IL-5 in ozone-exposed mice. Finally, the histopathological assessment revealed significantly enhanced intracellular localization of mucoinflammatory proteins including MUC5B and FIZZ1 in ozone-exposed mice in a cell-specific manner indicating the cellular sources of the proteins that are ferried in the exosomes upon ozone-induced lung injury. Collectively, this study identified exosomal, secretory, and cell-specific proteins and biological pathways following repetitive exposure of mice to ozone.

The Scored Patient-Generated Subjective Global Assessment (PG-SGA) and Edmonton Frail Scale (EFS) are widely used in acute care settings to assess nutritional and frailty status, respectively. We aimed to determine whether the scored PG-SGA can identify pre-frailty and frailty status, to simultaneously evaluate malnutrition and frailty in clinical practice. Cross-sectional study. A convenience sample of 329 consecutive patients admitted to an acute medical unit in South Australia. Nutritional and frailty status were ascertained with scored PG-SGA and EFS, respectively. Optimal cut-off scores to identify pre-frailty and frailty were determined by calculating the Scored PG-SGA’s sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, Youden Index (YI), Liu index, Receiver Operator Curves (ROC) and Area Under Curve (AUC). Nutritional status and patient characteristics were analysed according to frailty categories. The optimal cut-off PG-SGA score as determined by the highest YI, to identify both pre-frailty and frailty was >3, with a sensitivity of 0.711 and specificity of 0.746. The AUC was 0.782 (95% CI 0.731–0.833). In this cohort, 64% of the patients were well-nourished, 26% were moderately malnourished and 10% were severely malnourished. Forty-three percent, 24% and 33% of the patients were classified as robust, pre-frail and frail, respectively. Bivariate analysis showed that those robust were significantly younger than those who were pre-frail (−2.8, 95% CI −5.5 to −0.1, p=0.036) or frail (−3.4, 95% CI −5.9 to −1.0, p=0.002). Robust patients had significantly lower Scored PG-SGA than those who were pre-frail (−2.5, 95%CI −3.8 to −1.1, p

Pandemic situations always impose devastating aftereffects on communities and cause chronic damaging effects on the healthcare system. Novel coronavirus disese-2019 (COVID-19) which has originated in China (Wuhan) is nowadays an emerging threat to public health across the world. It is spreading worldwide so rapidly and has started infecting people in all possible ways. Several dental care facilities in affected countries are completely closed or have been only providing minimal treatment for emergency cases since the whole lockdown has been announced. However, in some affected countries, they are still providing regular dental treatment. This discrepancy could be because of the dearth of proper awareness, knowledge, protocol, or guidelines. How to cite this article Kshirsagar MM, Dodamani AS, Deokar RN, et al. Impact of COVID-19 on Dentistry. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2021;14(5):711–714.

Reactive Oxygen Species are chemically unstable molecules generated during aerobic respiration, especially in the electron transport chain. ROS are involved in various biological functions; any imbalance in their standard level results in severe damage, for instance, oxidative damage, inflammation in a cellular system, and cancer. Oxidative damage activates signaling pathways, which result in cell proliferation, oncogenesis, and metastasis. Since the last few decades, mesenchymal stromal cells have been explored as therapeutic agents against various pathologies, such as cardiovascular diseases, acute and chronic kidney disease, neurodegenerative diseases, macular degeneration, and biliary diseases. Recently, the research community has begun developing several anti-tumor drugs, but these therapeutic drugs are ineffective. In this present review, we would like to emphasize MSCs-based targeted therapy against pathologies induced by ROS as cells possess regenerative potential, immunomodulation, and migratory capacity. We have also focused on how MSCs can be used as next-generation drugs with no side effects.

Nutrients are emerging regulators of adaptive immunity1. Selective nutrients interplay with immunological signals to activate mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1), a key driver of cell metabolism2–4, but how these environmental signals are integrated for immune regulation remains unclear. Here we use genome-wide CRISPR screening combined with protein–protein interaction networks to identify regulatory modules that mediate immune receptor- and nutrient-dependent signalling to mTORC1 in mouse regulatory T (Treg) cells. SEC31A is identified to promote mTORC1 activation by interacting with the GATOR2 component SEC13 to protect it from SKP1-dependent proteasomal degradation. Accordingly, loss of SEC31A impairs T cell priming and Treg suppressive function in mice. In addition, the SWI/SNF complex restricts expression of the amino acid sensor CASTOR1, thereby enhancing mTORC1 activation. Moreover, we reveal that the CCDC101-associated SAGA complex is a potent inhibitor of mTORC1, which limits the expression of glucose and amino acid transporters and maintains T cell quiescence in vivo. Specific deletion of Ccdc101 in mouse Treg cells results in uncontrolled inflammation but improved antitumour immunity. Collectively, our results establish epigenetic and post-translational mechanisms that underpin how nutrient transporters, sensors and transducers interplay with immune signals for three-tiered regulation of mTORC1 activity and identify their pivotal roles in licensing T cell immunity and immune tolerance. CRISPR screening and protein–protein interaction networks identify components and mechanisms of nutrient-dependent mTORC1 signalling in regulatory T cells and reveal how mTORC1 integrates immunological cues and nutrient signals for adaptive immunity.

Computer vision syndrome (CVS) is a symptom complex in which symptoms develop due to long screening time and improper postures while using computers. Ayurveda has mentioned Shushkakshipaka under Sarvagat Netra Roga. The symptoms of CVS and Shushkakshipaka when corelated, it denotes imbalance of Vata and Pitta Dosha. These vitiated Doshas carried by Siras to the eyes. When Doshas accumulated in eye the condition develops, called as Shushkakshipaka. Over use of Internet, Computers, Electronic devices increasing the risk factors about maintaining the normal vision. For the management of the CVS case, the Saindhava Jala Seka and Abhyantara Triphala Ghritapana is chosen from Sushrut Samhita. Triphala Ghrita is beneficial for complete maintenance of physiology of eye. The Guna Karma of Saindhava and Triphala Ghrita are Vata-Pitta Shamaka and both having Chakshushya properties. The main purpose for this study is to find safe and effective treatment without untoward effect in the management of CVS along with respective ergonomics advice. The required clinical tests done to observe the effectiveness of the combination of local and systemic treatment. The dryness in the eyes and associated symptoms can be resolved with the local treatment like Seka. Both the treatment modalities in combination have potential to give local and systemic relief improving the symptoms of CVS.

Background: Patients with psychiatric disorders are at an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease, reducing life expectancy. Autonomic dysfunction has been linked to this increased risk; many studies have found reductions in heart rate variability (HRV). Only a few studies have systematically explored the relationship between obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) and autonomic function, and they have found contradicting results. The present study is intended to explore comprehensive autonomic functions in OCD patients and compare them with healthy controls. Methods: A total of 18 OCD patients meeting Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders - 5 (DSM-5) criteria were enrolled to undergo comprehensive autonomic function testing, and the results were compared with 25 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Results: Time-domain parameters of HRV such as standard deviation of the RR intervals, coefficient of variance of RR intervals, standard deviation of differences between adjacent RR intervals, root square of the mean of the sum of the squares of differences between adjacent RR intervals, and percentage of number of RR interval differences ≥ 50 ms were significantly lower in OCD patients, indicating lesser parasympathetic tone. Frequency-domain parameters such as total power and very low frequency were significantly lower in OCD patients, indicating a significant decrease in autonomic tone. Nonlinear parameters such as dispersion of points perpendicular to the line of identity and dispersion of points along the line of identity were significantly lower in OCD patients, indicating altered vagal and sympathetic tone. In autonomic reactivity tests, the fall in systolic blood pressure during the lying to standing test and change in diastolic blood pressure during the cold pressor test were significantly altered in OCD patients, indicating abnormal sympathetic reactivity. There was no significant correlation between autonomic parameters and the severity of OCD. Conclusion: OCD is characterized by a decreased parasympathetic tone and abnormal sympathetic reactivity compared to normal controls.

Objectives Monitoring the antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 infection and its correlation to clinical spectrum of disease is critical in understanding the disease progression and protection against re-infection. We assessed the nucleocapsid (N) and receptor-binding-domain of spike (SRBD) protein specific IgG and neutralizing antibody (NAb) responses in COVID-19 patients up to 8 months and its correlation with diverse disease spectrum. Methods During the first wave of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, from 284 COVID-19 patients, 608 samples were collected up to 8 months post infection. The patients were categorized as asymptomatic, symptomatic and severe. The N and SRBD IgG and NAb titers were evaluated and correlated with clinical data. Results A steep increase in antigen specific antibody titers was observed till 40 days post onset of the disease (POD), followed by a partial decline till 240 days. Severe disease was associated with a stronger SRBD IgG response and higher NAb titers. The persistence of antibody response was observed in 76% against N, 80% against SRBD and 80% for NAbs of cases up to 8 months POD. Conclusion RBD and N protein specific IgG persisted till 240 days POD which correlated with NAb response, irrespective of individual`s symptomatic status indicating overall robust protection against re-infection.

BACKGROUND: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has variable etiological risk factors. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and surgical resection (SR) are frequently used as curative treatment options. In the present study, we assessed the etiological factors and efficacy of RFA and SR in patients with unifocal HCC in a real-life setting. METHODS: Of 870 patients with HCC seen over a period of nine years, 785 patients were assessed for stage and etiological risk factors. Of these, 110 (14%) patients with single HCC who were either treated with RFA (n = 72) or SR (n = 38) were evaluated for their outcomes in terms of overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) over 3 years. RESULTS: Of 785 patients [median age 60 (range 51–65) years, males (n = 685, 87.3%)] with HCC, viral hepatitis [HBV and HCV with or without alcohol = 502 (63.9%)] was the most common etiology; nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and alcohol as an etiology showed increase over the years. About 677 (86.2%) patients had evidence of cirrhosis; NASH and HBV were predominant causes in noncirrhotic patients. Even though the groups were not matched, in 110 patients subjected to either RFA [mean tumor size, 2.2 (1.9–2.8) cm] or SR [mean tumor size, 7.1 (4.8–9.7) cm], tumor progression was observed in 49 (68%) and 16 (42%) patients in RFA and SR groups, respectively, with superior DFS in the SR group (P < 0.01). Of total 31 deaths, 20 (27.8%) deaths were in the RFA group and 11 (28.9%) in the SR group with no difference in OS at 3 years. CONCLUSION: Viral hepatitis with or without alcohol is the commonest etiological factor for HCC in Northern India; NASH and alcohol are increasing over the years. In a real-life setting, in patients with unifocal HCC, there is no difference in overall 3-year survival subjected to SR or RFA with better DFS in the SR group.

Escin has effects on inflammation and is useful for the treatment of varicose veins and cancer. Scientific reports on the toxicity profile of escin are not available. Oral acute toxicity in rats wa...

Background A randomised trial designed to compare three and two doses of quadrivalent human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine in adolescent girls in India was converted to a cohort study after suspension of HPV vaccination in trials by the Indian Government. In this Article, the revised aim of the cohort study was to compare vaccine efficacy of single dose to that of three and two doses in protecting against persistent HPV 16 and 18 infection at 10 years post vaccination. Methods In the randomised trial, unmarried girls aged 10-18 years were recruited from nine centres across India and randomly assigned to either two doses or three doses of the quadrivalent HPV vaccine (Gardasil [Merck Sharp & Dohme, Whitehouse Station, NJ, USA]; 0·5 mL administered intramuscularly). After suspension of recruitment and vaccination, the study became a longitudinal, prospective cohort study by default, and participants were allocated to four cohorts on the basis of the number vaccine doses received per protocol: the two-dose cohort (received vaccine on days 1 and 180 or later), three-dose cohort (days 1, 60, and 180 or later), two-dose default cohort (days 1 and 60 or later), and the single-dose default cohort. Participants were followed up yearly. Cervical specimens were collected from participants 18 months after marriage or 6 months after first childbirth, whichever was earlier, to assess incident and persistent HPV infections. Married participants were screened for cervical cancer as they reached 25 years of age. Unvaccinated women age-matched to the married vaccinated participants were recruited to serve as controls. Vaccine efficacy against persistent HPV 16 and 18 infections (the primary endpoint) was analysed for single-dose recipients and compared with that in two-dose and three-dose recipients after adjusting for imbalance in the distribution of potential confounders between the unvaccinated and vaccinated cohorts. This trial is registered with ISRCTN, ISRCTN98283094, and ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT00923702. Findings Vaccinated participants were recruited between Sept 1, 2009, and April 8, 2010 (date of vaccination suspension), and followed up over a median duration of 9·0 years (IQR 8·2-9·6). 4348 participants had three doses, 4980 had two doses (0 and 6 months), and 4949 had a single dose. Vaccine efficacy against persistent HPV 16 and 18 infection among participants evaluable for the endpoint was 95·4% (95% CI 85·0-99·9) in the single-dose default cohort (2135 women assessed), 93·1% (77·3-99·8) in the two-dose cohort (1452 women assessed), and 93·3% (77·5-99·7) in three-dose recipients (1460 women assessed). Interpretation A single dose of HPV vaccine provides similar protection against persistent infection from HPV 16 and 18, the genotypes responsible for nearly 70% of cervical cancers, to that provided by two or three doses. Funding Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.