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Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients experience a progressive deterioration and disability leading to worsening of their health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and functional exercise capacity. We performed this study to identify the correlation of HRQoL assessed by St George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) and the functional exercise capacity assessed by the six-minute walk test (6MWT) with severity of COPD defined by the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) criteria among spirometry-confirmed COPD patients, admitted in a tertiary care rural hospital. Materials and Methods: The study included 129 spirometry-confirmed COPD patients defined by the GOLD criteria from a tertiary care hospital in central India. They underwent HRQoL measurement using the disease-specific (SGRQ). Functional exercise capacity was measured by 6MWT, as per the American Thoracic Society (ATS) guidelines. Statistical Analysis: We analyzed the various SGRQ scores and six-minute walk distance (6MWD) percentage predicted with various stages of COPD using the Student's t-test. The Pearson's correlation coefficient (r) was used to assess the relationships between various SGRQ scores and 6MWD with FEV1% predicted. Results: We found that COPD patients with GOLD III and IV, but not GOLD II, had significantly poor HRQoL measured by SGRQ, as compared to patients with mild COPD (GOLD I). An inverse linear relation was found between 6MWD and the severity of COPD. Correlation of FEV1% predicted with various SGRQ scores varied from - 0.40 to - 0.53, with a maximum correlation of FEV1% predicted with an SGRQ symptom score (- 0.53) and SGRQ total score (- 0.50). A strong positive correlation was found between 6MWD and FEV1% predicted (0.57). Conclusions: Staging COPD according to the GOLD guidelines does correspond to important differences in the HRQoL of COPD patients having severe disease, but not for mild disease, whereas, the functional exercise capacity of COPD patients deteriorates in a linear fashion with the severity of disease assessed by the GOLD staging criteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although brain has been the most common site for toxoplasma infection in acquired immunodeficiency syndrome patients, involvement of spinal cord by toxoplasma has been rarely found. Spinal cord toxoplasmosis can present as acute onset weakness in both lower limbs associated with sensory and bladder dysfunction. A presumptive diagnosis can be made in patients with CD4 count <100/mm3 based on a positive serum Toxoplasma gondii IgG antibodies, no recent prophylaxis against toxoplasmosis, intramedullary ring enhancing lesion in spinal cord supported by similar lesions in brain parenchyma. Institutions of antitoxoplasma treatment in such patients result in prompt clinical response and therefore avoiding the need of unnecessary invasive diagnostic tests. Here, we report a case of toxoplasmic myelitis in immunocompromised patient presenting as myelopathy who showed significant clinical improvement after starting antitoxoplasma treatment. Hence toxoplasmic myelitis should be considered in toxoplasma seropositive immunocompromised patients presenting as myelopathy and imaging studies showing ring enhancing intramedullary lesion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Radical prostatectomy remains the gold-standard treatment for localised prostate cancer. Despite the widespread introduction of nerve-sparing techniques, post-operative erectile dysfunction (ED) is still a significant source of morbidity. There are multiple approaches to prevent and treat ED. Recent refinements to surgical technique attempt to minimise disruption to the prostatic neural and arterial supply. A greater understanding of the factors affecting ED has also enabled the first multi-variate risk stratification model, thereby potentially improving awareness of pre-operative risk. Numerous on-demand treatments are available, including phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors, intracavernous/transurethral alprostadil, vacuum erection devices and combination therapy with multiple agents. As our understanding of the aetiology improves, attempts to manipulate the molecular mechanisms underpinning ED are also being investigated. In addition, early pharmacological rehabilitation is used to preserve cavernosal smooth muscle function until intra-operative neurapraxia resolves, although the optimum regimen is yet to be defined. Currently, much work is ongoing to improve our understanding and treatment of post-prostatectomy ED. We review the current status and recent advances in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents effect of the weather impairments on a high altitude platform (HAP) broadband wireless communication system. It is shown that attenuation due to oxygen, water vapor, fog, cloud, and rain has significant effect on a radio link which is operating in a millimeter frequency range. Channel capacity is calculated for different seasons using Shannon’s channel capacity theorem. The location of HAP is taken to be Delhi (India). Further, it is considered that a user and the HAP platform are stationary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Predicting treatment responses in advanced prostate cancer (PCa) currently centres on prostate-specific antigen (PSA) kinetics and on being able to visualize measurable changes in imaging modalities. New molecular markers have emerged as potential diagnostic and prognostic indicators; these were summarized in Part I of this review in the Asian Journal of Andrology. A number of molecular markers are now being used to enhance PCa imaging and staging. However, management options for advanced and hormone-resistant PCa (HRPC) are limited and additional therapeutic options are needed. Molecular markers have been proposed as potential therapeutic targets using gene therapy and immunomodulation. Additionally, markers identified in early PCa and precursor lesions may offer novel targets for chemoprevention and vaccine development. This review summarizes the current advances regarding the roles of these markers in the management of PCa.Asian Journal of Andrology (2009) 11: 22–27. doi: 10.1038/aja.2008.23; published online 1 December 2008. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Assessing the lethality of 'early,' potentially organ-confined prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the central controversies in modern-day urological clinical practice. Such cases are often considered for radical 'curative' treatment, although active surveillance may be equally appropriate for many men. Moreover, the balance between judicious intervention and overtreatment can be difficult to judge. The patient's age, comorbidities, family history and philosophy of self-health care can be weighed against clinical features such as the palpability of disease, the number and percentage of biopsy cores involved with the disease, histological grade, presenting prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and possible previous PSA kinetics. For many years, scientists and physicians have sought additional molecular factors that may be predictive for disease stage, progression and lethality. Usually, claims for a 'new' unique marker fall short of true clinical value. More often than not, such molecular markers are useful only in multivariate models. This review summarizes relevant molecular markers and models reported up to and including 2008.Asian Journal of Andrology (2009) 11: 14–21. doi: 10.1038/aja.2008.20; published online 1 December 2008. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents case study of a 45-yr-old woman presented with right hand pain after a mechanical fall from a standing height. Clinical examination of the right hand demonstrated tenderness at the first metacarpal phalangeal joint (MCPJ) of the thumb with soft tissue swelling over the ulnar aspect. The patient was treated with surgical repair of the ulnar collateral ligament 5 weeks after the injury.

The article offers case study of male student with no known medical history presented with acute onset of left shoulder pain after playing Frisbee in the university. It examines the squaring of his left shoulder with step deformity. It evaluates that no upper limb numbness or weakness was evident. It overviews the postreduction left shoulder radiograph which showed an enlocated glenohumeral joint with no fracture.

Leukocytoclastic vasculitis (LCV), also known as hypersensitivity vasculitis is a small vessel inflammatory disease which mainly involves the postcapillary venules. A 17-year-old girl developed palpable purpura over lower limbs and acute allergic interstitial nephritis 5 days after exposure to ceftriaxone. Skin biopsy from the lesion over lower limbs confirmed the diagnosis of LCV. Discontinuation of drug and treatment with steroid resulted in resolution of skin lesions and normalization of kidney functions. Beta-lactams are commonly used antibiotics in various types of infection in day-to-day practice. LCV, a rare complication of ceftriaxone should be kept in mind while using this drug. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This letter reports a first time study on enhanced temperature (~800°C) stability of type-IIa as compared with type-I fiber Bragg gratings (FBGs) written by high repetition rate (5.5 kHz) 255 nm UV beam. Both the FBGs were written in high photosensitive Ge doped (~10 mole%) single mode fiber without hydrogen loading. Both the FBGs survived 800°C over 9 h, however, time rate of fall of type-IIa FBG reflectivity was ~3 times lower as compared with type-I. The high temperature stability of 255 nm written FBGs is attributed to enhanced core-cladding stress release in the strong seed grating written by highly stabilized interference fringes and high cumulative fluence of 255 nm, 5.5 kHz UV pulses. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The article presents a case study of a 27-year-old man presented with pain in the left wrist after a fall and patient had tripped and fallen forward, sustaining a contusion on the outstretched hand. It discusses that due to persistent pain and difficulty in performing daily activities, the patient evaluated with magnetic resonance imaging of the wrist. It notes the identification of the flexor retinaculum, commonly related to carpal tunnel syndrome.

Aim: To assess knowledge of our neonatal intensive care unit clinical staff regarding preterm neurodevelopmental outcomes using the 33‐item Preterm Birth Knowledge Scale (PB‐KS). Methods: An anonymous convenience sampling survey of clinical staff in the Neonatal Directorate was conducted between July and December 2019. PB‐KS, demographic information and prior staff education on long‐term outcomes in very preterm infants were collected. Results: There were 56 responses (five neonatologists, eight paediatric trainees, 41 neonatal nurses and two allied health staff). Responses were scored as correct or incorrect. The mean score on the PB‐KS was 19.5 (range: 4–29 out of 40) with 50% correct answers. Accuracy was highest (96%) for rates of cerebral palsy and lowest (11%) for estimation of quality of life among preterm survivors. Staff reported training in long‐term outcomes of preterm infants through attending a conference/seminar (20%) or a combination of formal training and seminars (41.1%). Over half of our clinical staff reported a lack of formal training. Formally trained clinical staff scored significantly better in this survey. Didactic seminars were indicated as preferred choice for staff education. Conclusions: Results of our survey will assist in developing a customised educational programme to address identified gaps in the knowledge of clinical staff as our survey also showed significantly better scores among staff who were formally trained about long‐term outcomes in very preterm infants. Staff responses indicated that knowledge on long‐term outcomes was variable but more accurate with regard to more severe disabilities and shorter‐term developmental outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction  Anion gap (AG) metabolic acidosis is common in critically ill patients. The relationship between initial AG at the time of admission to the medical intensive care unit (MICU) and mortality or length of stay is unclear. This study was undertaken to evaluate this relationship. Materials and Method  We prospectively examined the acid–base status of 500 consecutive patients at the time of MICU admission and outcome was measured in terms of mortality, length of ICU stay, need of ventilator, and laboratory parameters. The patients were divided into four stages based on the severity of AG. Outcome based on the severity of AG was measured, and comparisons that adjusted for baseline characteristics were performed. Results  This study showed that increased AG was associated with the higher mortality. Patients with the highest AG also had the longest length of stay in the MICU, and patients with normal acid–base status had the shortest ICU length of stays (p < 0.05). Conclusion  A high AG at the time of admission to the MICU was associated with higher mortality and length of stays. Initial risk stratification based on AG and metabolic acidosis may help guide appropriate patient disposition (especially in patients without other definitive criteria for MICU admission) and assist with prognosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A state of impaired glucose tolerance is called prediabetes. The diagnosis of prediabetes is controversial, yet it still puts a person at risk for developing diabetes. The ankle-brachial index (ABI) is useful for identifying persons at risk for peripheral artery disease and for diagnosing the condition in those who have symptoms in their lower extremities and subclinical atherosclerosis. This study highlights ABI and its correlation with cardiovascular risk factors like lipid profile and anthropometric measurement including neck circumference in prediabetes so that primary care physicians may be able to diagnose early before advancing to diabetes. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study of 2 years duration from December 2020 to September 2022 was conducted in the Department of Medicine, at a tertiary care teaching hospital situated in a rural area. Patients with pre-diabetes were enrolled and Ankle Brachial Index was calculated. The correlation of ABI with anthropometric measures and lipid profile was assessed. Results: On calculating ABI by manual method 21% which is 42 out of 200 had low ABI (<0.9). On the other hand, on calculating ABI by probe method low range of ABI was found to be 37% which is 74 patients out of 200. There was a significant correlation between ABI and body mass index and lipid profile. The diagnostic performance of ABI < 0.9 had 56.8% sensitivity and 100.0% specificity. Conclusion: ABI can be used as a noninvasive and cost-effective modality for assessing subclinical atherosclerosis in patients with prediabetes and thus prevent its morbid complications even assessed at the primary care physician level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Various laboratory parameters like C-reactive protein (CRP), Cortisol, and Von Willebrand factor antigen have been evaluated independently in foreseeing outcomes of cirrhotic patients. As these parameters lack cost-effectiveness in a rural setup, there is a need for a cost effective and feasible prognostic marker for cirrhotic patients. The present study was aimed at evaluating the role of Absolute Eosinophil Count (AEC) as a prognostic marker in cirrhotic patients. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at a rural tertiary care teaching hospital in central India from August 2019 to September 2021. AEC was measured from counter report as a part of automated complete blood counts. Child-Turcotte-Pugh (CTP) score and Model for end stage liver disease (MELD) score were calculated at the time of admission. AEC levels on admission were correlated with mortality and with CTP score and MELD score. Results: A total of 110 patients were enrolled with mean age of 46.37 ± 11.6 years. AEC was the significant predictor of mortality at cut off point of ≤ 120 with 80.30% (AUC 0.803; 95% CI: 0.716 to 0.873). AEC was the significant predictor of CTP score ≥ 11 at cut off point of ≤ 148 (AUC 0.726; 95% CI: 0.633 to 0.807). AEC was the significant predictor of MELD score ≥ 25 at cut off point of ≤ 136 (AUC 0.74; 95% CI: 0.647 to 0.819). Significant negative correlation was seen between AEC with Child–Pugh score and MELD score with correlation coefficient of -0.257 and -0.258. Conclusion: Low level of AEC on admission fairly predicted raised CTP score and MELD score on admission. Low AEC levels predicted increased mortality in cirrhotic patients making it a cheap and reliable prognostic marker in a rural setup. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major health concern in India and has high prevalence, morbidity, and mortality due to significant percentages of subjects with poor socioeconomic status as well as poor management of health resources. Many apparatuses are available to assess nutrition status among patients of CKD. This study was conducted to identify nutritional risk in CKD patients using a modified Nutrition Risk in Critically ill (m-NUTRIC) score without using interleukin-6 values. Method: This prospective observational study was conducted at a tertiary care teaching hospital for a time period of 2 years from 2020 to 2022. The modification of diet in renal disease approach was used for the staging of the CKD. m-NUTRIC scores were calculated and scores ≥5 were graded in high-risk categories and were associated with adverse outcomes, whereas scores <5 were categorized as low risk. Result: Among 250 patients with CKD enrolled, 65 patients were in the age group 18 to 40 years having a mean m-NUTRIC score of 4.46 ± 1.76; in the age group 40 to 60 years 5.18 ± 1.67; and in the age group older than 60 years 5.88 ± 1.77. The mean (standard deviation [SD]) m-NUTRIC score in hemodialysis group was 5.69 ± 1.63 and in nonhemodialysis group was 4.15 ± 1.66. At m-NUTRIC cutoff of 5, predicted hemodialysis is having 66% specificity and 77% sensitivity. It predicts mortality with a sensitivity of 93% and a specificity of 89% at a cutoff of m-NUTRIC of 6. Conclusion: This study showed that m-NUTRIC score may be an important tool that determines requirement of hemodialysis and mortality in CKD patients. Moreover, these scores were higher in stages 4 and 5 of CKD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Prediabetes is a state of impaired glucose tolerance that often precedes overt diabetes mellitus and is frequently underdiagnosed. Glycation of platelet proteins leads to increased platelet reactivity which can be an essential predisposing event in the pathogenesis of coronary artery disease (CAD). Although research has been conducted to diagnose CAD in prediabetes and to assess platelet indices in prediabetes, there has been no attempt to assess platelet indices in prediabetic patients who have CAD. Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out in a rural tertiary care center in Central India from September 2019 to August 2021. A total of 180 patients were enrolled in this study, having documented CAD in coronary angiography (CAG) and blood glucose levels in the diagnostic range of prediabetes by the criteria set by the World Health Organization. Platelet indices, glycosylated hemoglobin, blood sugar levels, and CAG findings were documented for all participants. Results: The mean platelet volume (MPV) in our study population was 9.58 ± 1.14 fL, platelet distribution width (PDW) was 15.69% ± 1.36%, plateletcrit was 0.3% ± 0.07%, and platelet count was 319 ± 44 x 103 cells/mm3. PDW was the best tool to predict double-vessel disease (P < 0.0001), while MPV (P = 0.6146) and PDW (P = 0.0266) were best predictors of triple-vessel disease. Conclusion: Platelet indices that are readily available investigations prescribed by clinicians routinely are significantly associated with blood sugar levels and can predict the severity of CAD in prediabetics in terms of the number of vessels involved. Early assessment of platelet indices in prediabetics can aid in the diagnosis and prognosis of CAD, thereby helping in planning early intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives This exploratory pilot study aimed to evaluate whether adding imaging biomarkers to conventional staging improves complete excision rates after undergoing radical prostatectomy (RP) in the United Kingdom for patients who have not undergone population prostate specific antigen screening. We primarily considered estimates of lesion volume and location based on computer-aided analysis of ultrasound (US) raw radiofrequency (RF) data acquired during trans-rectal ultrasound. The imaging analysis device used had been shown to accurately detect tumor loci within the prostate in previous studies. Methods and materials US raw RF data were collected from motorized trans-rectal ultrasound of 68 consecutive men with operable prostate cancer. In this cohort (group 1), locations and volume measurements of lesions suspected of harboring cancer on US raw RF data analysis by prostate HistoScanning, were added to conventional presurgical staging.The unexposed control group comprised 100 men who underwent conventional presurgical staging only (group 2): 50 were operated before and 50 operated after group 1 recruitment. Changes to pre-operative surgical planning and positive lateral margins of RP prostate pathological specimens were the primary outcomes. Data were collected using a Microsoft Excel database and analyzed using Stata. Results Baseline demographics were comparable. In group 1, consideration of the additional imaging biomarkers led to changes in 27 (19.9%) operative surgical plans. Absolute rate reduction of a positive surgical margin (PSM) attributable to the imaging-biomarkers was 13.3% ( P = 0.029). For stage pT3, PSM rate was reduced from 45.8% ( n = 44) to 21.2% ( n = 11) ( P = 0.0028). Conclusions Obtaining quantitative measurements of preoperative imaging biomarkers appears to improve PSM rates of patients undergoing RP. The greatest PSM rate reduction was observed for pT3 tumors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metabolic syndrome is a multifaceted metabolic disorder characterized by a constellation of interconnected risk factors, including insulin resistance, abdominal obesity, dyslipidemia, and hypertension. These components collectively predispose individuals to an elevated risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The prevalence of metabolic syndrome has escalated globally, paralleling the rise in obesity rates and sedentary lifestyles. This review explores the pathophysiology underlying metabolic syndrome, emphasizing its role in the development and progression of CVD and T2DM. Epidemiological data underscore the substantial public health burden metabolic syndrome poses, necessitating effective preventive strategies and management approaches. The current diagnostic criteria and screening tools are discussed, highlighting their utility in clinical practice. Management strategies encompass lifestyle modifications, pharmacotherapy, and surgical interventions, each targeting specific components of metabolic syndrome to mitigate cardiovascular and metabolic risks. The challenges in diagnosing and managing metabolic syndrome are addressed alongside emerging research directions to enhance prevention and treatment outcomes. By elucidating the intricate relationship between metabolic syndrome, CVD, and T2DM, this review aims to guide healthcare practitioners in optimizing patient care and advancing public health initiatives to combat this pervasive syndrome., Competing Interests: Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Dhondge et al.)

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among individuals with type 1 diabetes (T1D), necessitating effective prevention strategies. This comprehensive review consolidates current knowledge and evidence on preventing CVD in T1D patients. It begins by exploring the pathophysiological mechanisms that link T1D to an increased risk of CVD, highlighting factors such as chronic hyperglycemia, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and inflammation. The review also examines the epidemiology and specific risk factors for CVD in this population, emphasizing the need for rigorous risk assessment and screening. Lifestyle modifications, including dietary interventions, regular physical activity, and smoking cessation, are evaluated for their effectiveness in reducing CVD risk. Additionally, the review discusses pharmacological interventions, such as insulin therapy for glycemic control, antihypertensive medications, lipid-lowering agents, and antiplatelet therapy, underscoring their critical role in CVD prevention. Emerging therapies and future research directions are explored, focusing on novel pharmacological agents, advances in insulin delivery systems, and personalized medicine approaches. The importance of integrated care models involving multidisciplinary teams and the use of technology is highlighted as essential for comprehensive management. Challenges and barriers to implementing these strategies, including healthcare system limitations, patient adherence, and socioeconomic factors, are also addressed. This review provides a detailed synthesis of current strategies and future directions for preventing CVD in individuals with T1D, serving as a valuable resource for clinicians, researchers, and policymakers dedicated to improving cardiovascular outcomes in this high-risk population., Competing Interests: Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Ahuja et al.)

Background Of liver-related disorders, cirrhosis is currently the leading cause of death and has become a significant global public health concern. Aspartate aminotransferase to platelet ratio index (APRI), a newer prognostic modality, is a very effective noninvasive diagnostic for identifying advanced liver fibrosis. Methods A prospective observational study was conducted among individuals with liver disease, 100 cases and 100 controls for two years. All the sociodemographic details, clinical features of the patients, and clinical findings such as prothrombin time (PT), liver function tests, kidney function tests, and total blood count were recorded using a pretested semi-structured questionnaire. Results According to our survey results, 48% of the participants were between the ages of 40 and 60. Regarding aPTT (activated partial thromboplastin time) and liver function test characteristics (serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase(SGOT), serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT)), we showed a substantial difference between the patients and controls. Regarding the APRI distribution, we also found a statistically significant variation between the research groups. When we compared the validity of APRI scores in diagnosing cirrhosis, we discovered that the ideal cutoff value of APRI was determined to be 3.99, with sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of 33%, 86%, 70%, and 56%, respectively. The area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve for APRI in detecting cirrhosis was also 0.693. Conclusion Thus, our study results conclude that APRI is a crucial noninvasive prognostic tool that can be utilized to prognostize liver cirrhosis., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright © 2024, Reddy et al.)

Serum ferritin has garnered considerable attention as a prognostic marker in intensive care units (ICUs), offering valuable insights into patient outcomes and clinical management strategies. This comprehensive review examines the role of serum ferritin in predicting outcomes among critically ill patients, with a particular focus on its implications for ischemic heart disease (IHD). Elevated serum ferritin levels have consistently been associated with adverse outcomes in ICU settings, including increased mortality, prolonged hospital stays, and higher morbidity rates. Furthermore, the relationship between serum ferritin levels and IHD underscores its potential as a biomarker for cardiovascular risk assessment in critically ill populations. The review synthesizes existing literature to highlight the predictive value of serum ferritin in assessing illness severity and guiding clinical decision-making in the ICUs. It also explores potential mechanisms linking serum ferritin to adverse outcomes and discusses implications for clinical practice. Integrating serum ferritin measurements into routine assessments could enhance prognostication and risk stratification in ICU patients, while further research is needed to elucidate optimal management strategies and therapeutic targets. Collaborative efforts between clinicians and researchers are essential to advance our understanding of serum ferritin's prognostic value in the ICUs and translate this knowledge into improved patient care and outcomes., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright © 2024, Dhondge et al.)

This review explores recent advancements in wearable digital health technology specifically designed to manage epilepsy. Epilepsy presents unique challenges in monitoring and management due to the unpredictable nature of seizures. Wearable devices offer continuous monitoring and real-time data collection, providing insights into seizure patterns and trends. Wearable technology is important in epilepsy management because it enables early detection, prediction, and personalized intervention, empowering patients and healthcare providers. Key findings highlight the potential of wearable devices to improve seizure detection accuracy, enhance patient empowerment through real-time monitoring, and facilitate data-driven decision-making in clinical practice. However, further research is needed to validate the accuracy and reliability of these devices across diverse patient populations and clinical settings. Collaborative efforts between researchers, clinicians, technology developers, and patients are essential to drive innovation and advancements in wearable digital health technology for epilepsy management, ultimately improving outcomes and quality of life for individuals with this neurological condition., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright © 2024, Ahuja et al.)

Introduction Even after the breakthrough advancements in the management and prognostic scoring of sepsis, it remains an important cause of morbidity and mortality encountered in intensive care units (ICUs) throughout the globe. This study highlights the utility of platelet indices as prognostic markers of sepsis. Methods In the present prospective cross-sectional study, a total of 177 patients with sepsis were enrolled using the Sepsis-3 criteria. The platelet indices were then linked to severity using the Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II score. The correlation of platelet indices to morbidity in terms of the length of ICU stay, need for a mechanical ventilator, types of infection, and mortality was also assessed. Results The results showed that mean platelet volume (p = 0.004) and platelet distribution width (PDW; p = 0.009) were positively correlated with the severity of sepsis. Among all the parameters, plateletcrit (%) was the best predictor of the need for an invasive mechanical ventilator at a cutoff point of ≤0.22 with a 60.90% chance of correctly predicting the need for an invasive mechanical ventilator, as was mortality at a cutoff point of ≤0.22 with a 67.30% chance of correct prediction. Among the platelet indices, only PDW showed a significant association with growth in culture because patients with growth had significantly higher PDW as compared to those who did not have growth (22.4 ± 4.47 vs 20.81 ± 4.29, p = 0.011). Conclusion The difference between the survivors and non-survivor groups was statistically significant for platelet indices, making them easily available, cost-effective, and useful prognostic markers for patients in septic shock. This will help in easy understanding and preventing its morbid complications, even at the primary care physician level., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright © 2024, Gupta et al.)

Sepsis remains a critical global health challenge characterised by a dysregulated immune response to infection, leading to systemic inflammation and organ dysfunction. This review examines the immunomodulatory effects of Vitamin D in sepsis, focusing on its regulation of immune cell function, modulation of cytokine production, and enhancement of antimicrobial responses. While the potential of Vitamin D as an adjunctive therapy in sepsis management is evident, challenges such as variability in Vitamin D status, uncertainties regarding optimal dosages and patient heterogeneity, and potential adverse effects require careful consideration. The review highlights the implications for future research and clinical practice, emphasising the need for standardised measurement protocols, elucidation of optimal supplementation strategies, and integration of Vitamin D assessments into routine care. Despite the complexities, Vitamin D emerges as a promising avenue for personalised interventions in sepsis, necessitating ongoing research collaboration and evidence-based guidelines to harness its full therapeutic potential and improve clinical outcomes., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright © 2024, Ahuja et al.)

Microalbuminuria is a well-established, strong, and independent risk factor of cardiovascular disease. Patients with microalbuminuria are also said to have a higher atherosclerotic load in the form of multivessel coronary artery disease (CAD) than those who do not. In this study, we tried to correlate microalbuminuria with the severity of CAD. In this cross-sectional study, 100 patients with CAD diagnosed on the basis of coronary angiography were enrolled from August 2019 to August 2021. Triple-vessel CAD was observed in 79.4% of cases with the presence of microalbuminuria compared with 3% of cases without microalbuminuria. The association of microalbuminuria with the severity of disease was statistically significant (P <0.01). A significant correlation was observed between microalbuminuria and the Framingham risk score in cases of CAD (P <0.01), which was a measure of the 10-year risk of cardiovascular disease., (Copyright © 2023 Copyright: © 2023 Saudi Journal of Kidney Diseases and Transplantation.)

Competing Interests: Financial disclosure statements have been obtained, and no conflicts of interest have been reported by the authors or by any individuals in control of the content of this article.