Probable Risk Factors Research Articles

Bell's Palsy: A Review

Bell's palsy, also known as"acute facial palsy of unknown cause", is a common cranial neuropathy leading to facial muscle paresis or complete paralysis characteristically on one side, occurring suddenly and may progress over 48 hours. It results from facial nerve dysfunction due to trauma or inflammation of the 7th cranial nerve or facial nerve or its branches along its course, primarily in the bony canal. Both sexes are equally affected, and though no age is immune, its incidence rises with increasing age. The risk is high in diabetics, hypertensives, women who are pregnant, obese, and people with upper respiratory tract infections. It is considered chiefly idiopathic and is diagnosed by the exclusion of other causes. Bell's palsy can cause physical and psychological complications and negatively impact patients and their relatives. Thus, early diagnosis and quick cause determination are prime roles in proper treatment. However, the exact etiology of Bell's palsy is unknown, affecting its treatment. Still, determining probable causative and risk factors is critical for employing a targeted treatment approach and requires a comprehensive examination and a complete history. Although the majority of patients recover spontaneously in less than three weeks even if they are not treated. But there is always a risk of residual paresis after treatment or recovery, which may require medical help. This review aims to furnish the most thorough understanding of Bell's palsy, focusing on anatomy, etiology, clinical features, diagnosis, clinical consequences,and preferred therapy approaches.

Consanguinity and Increased Risk of Congenital Ptosis: A Case-Control Study from Southern Iran.

To assess consanguinity as a probable risk factor for congenital ptosis. In this case-control study, 97 patients with congenital ptosis and 97 participants as the control group were included. The age, sex, and residence area of the control group were matched with the cases. The inbreeding coefficient (F) was calculated for each participant, and the mean of the inbreeding coefficient (α) was calculated for each group. The prevalence of consanguineous marriage in parents of cases with congenital ptosis and those of the control group was 54.6% and 30.9%, respectively (P < 0.002). The mean of the inbreeding coefficient (α) in patients with ptosis was 0.026, whereas it was 0.016 in the control group (T = 2.51, degree of freedom = 192, P = 0.0129). The rate of consanguineous marriage was significantly higher among the parents of patients with congenital ptosis. It implies a probable recessive pattern in the etiology of congenital ptosis.

Novel Assessment of Collagen and Its Crosslink Content in the Humerus from Primiparous Dairy Cows with Spontaneous Humeral Fractures Due to Osteoporosis from New Zealand.

Simple SummaryCollagen and collagen crosslinking are important determinants of bone strength. For the first time, collagen and its crosslink content were measured in the humerus from primiparous dairy cows with spontaneous humeral fracture due to osteoporosis from New Zealand. The results were compared with the humerus from unfractured dairy cows. Cows with a humeral fracture have a lower total collagen content but higher total collagen crosslink content compared with unfractured cows. The results suggest that protein/calorie undernutrition might be an important factor associated with the incidence of spontaneous humeral fractures in dairy cows from New Zealand.Numerous cases of spontaneous humeral fracture in primiparous dairy cows from New Zealand have prompted the study of the condition to establish probable causes or risk factors associated with the condition. Previous studies identified inadequate protein-calorie malnutrition as an important contributory factor. Earlier case studies also reported that ~50% of cows have low liver and/or serum copper concentration at the time of humeral fracture. Because copper is so closely associated with the formation of collagen cross-links, the aim of this study was to compare collagen and collagen crosslink content in the humerus from primiparous cows with and without humeral fractures and to determine the role of copper in the occurrence of these fractures. Humeri were collected from cows with and without humeral fractures, ground, and the collagen and collagen cross-link content measured using high-performance liquid chromatography. Collagen content was significantly higher in the humeri of cows without humeral fractures, while total collagen crosslink content was significantly higher in the humerus of cows with humeral fractures. These results indicate other factor/s (e.g., protein-calorie undernutrition) might be more important than the copper status in the occurrence of humeral fractures in dairy cows in New Zealand.

An observational clinico etiological study of Kushta with specific reference to Tinea corporis

Background: Skin diseases are among the most common health problems worldwide and are associated with considerable burden. In Ayurveda classics, skin disorders are termed in general as Kushta and are caused with involvement of Vata, Pitta, Shleshma and Krimi. Among the diversified etiological factors Krimi has a great importance. So, here an attempt is made to evaluate the clinical types, to isolate the common fungal species, etiological factors and to identify probable risk factors of Krimijanya Kushta in the present population. Objectives: To evaluate the clinical types, etiological factors and to identify probable risk factors of Krimijanya Kushta with special reference to Tinea Corporis and to isolate the prevalent causative fungal species. Materials and Methods: A total of 30 patients clinically diagnosed with tinea corporis and fulfilling the inclusion criteria were taken for the study. Results: Among 31 patients studied percentage of growth of different species of dermatophytes in culture study are given as follows, 48.4% are Trichophyton, 6.5% were Trichosporon, 3.2% were Microsporum Gypseum, 19.4% were Epidermophyton,16.1% were Candida, 3.2% were Aspergillus, 3.2% were found no growth. Conclusion: Aharaja and Viharaja Nidana mentioned in Kushta Nidana as well as Krimi Nidana were found to have Madhura, Amla, Lavana Rasa, Guru Guna, Vidahi, and Kledakaraka property which cause Swedaavarodha and is crucial for Kushta Utpathi as well as Krimi Utpatti. The prevalent causative fungal species found in the study were Trichophyton, Epidermophyton, Aspergillus, Trichosporon, Microsporum gypseum. Clinically to approach Kushta, better to be done through culture study.

Determining host factors contributing to the reactivation of JC virus in kidney transplant recipients

Background and aimsThe John Cunningham virus (JCV) is the established etiological agent of the polyomavirus-associated nephropathy among renal transplant recipients. In the present study, we aimed to determine the probable predictive factors leading to JCV replication in renal transplant patients.Material and methodsUrine and plasma samples were collected from a total of 120 consecutive renal‐transplanted patients without preliminary screening from Jan 2018 to Mar 2019. After DNA extraction, the simultaneous detection and quantification of JCV and BK polyomavirus (BKV) were conducted using a Real-time quantitative PCR method. Moreover, statistical analyses were performed using the statistical software packages, SPSS version 21.ResultsThe prevalence of JCV viruria and viremia among renal transplant recipients were 26 (21.67%) and 20 (16.67%), respectively. A significant association was observed between the JCV and two risk factors, diabetes mellitus (P = 0.002) and renal stones (P = 0.015). The prevalence of JCV viremia among recipients who were grafted near time to sampling was significantly higher (P = 0.02). There was a statistically significant coexistence between BK and JC viruses among our patients (P = 0.029). The frequency of JCV viruria in males was reported almost three times more than in females (P = 0.005). The JCV shedding in urine was significantly associated with the tropical steroids like prednisolone acetate, which have been the standard regimen (P = 0.039). Multivariable analysis revealed duration of post-transplantation (OR, 0.89; P = 0.038), diabetes mellitus (OR, 1.85; P = 0.034), and renal stone (OR 1.10; P = 0.04) as independent risk factors associated with JCV viremia post-renal transplantation.ConclusionIt seems that the discovery of potential risk factors, including immunological and non-immunological elements, may offer a possible preventive or therapeutic approach in the JCV disease episodes. The results of this study may also help clarify the probable clinical risk factors involving in progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy development.

Frequency of Positive Cuff Leak Test Before Extubation in Robotic Surgeries Done in Steep Trendelenburg Position.

Anaesthesia for robotic surgeries done in steep trendelenburgposition are associated with risks such as facial oedema, conjunctival chemosis, raised intraocular pressure, laryngeal oedema, and delayed awakening. We proposed the use of the cuff leak test in them to record the frequency of laryngeal oedema at the end of surgery and attempted to find its correlation with probable risk factors. We conducted a prospective observational study of 100 patients aiming primarily to assess the frequency of positive cuff leak test in robotic abdominal surgeries performed in trendelenburg position. The secondary outcomes were to check its correlation with intravenous fluid administration, duration of pneumoperitoneum, and angle of trendelenburg position. We also recorded the frequency of chemosis, the frequency of post-extubation stridor in 24h post-operatively, and the frequency of reintubation. Out of 100 participants undergoing elective abdominal robotic surgery in trendelenburg position, ninety were analysed. Total 31.6% (n = 30) participants showed positive cuff leak test. Chemosis was observed in 31 (32.6%) participants. No patient experienced post-extubation stridor or required reintubation during post-operative follow up. There was a no correlation between cuff leak test and intravenous fluid, duration of pneumo-peritoneum, or with angle of trendelenburg. The frequency of positive cuff leak test was high in patients at the end of robotic surgery but none of these patients had post-extubation stridor or required reintubations. There was no correlation with the fluid, angle, or duration of surgery. Clinical Trials Registry of India (CTRI/2017/04/008289), ctri.nic.in.

Risk Factors of Chronic Cough and Wheezing in Outpatient and Hospitalized Children

Background: Wheezing and chronic cough are the most common respiratory disorders in children. They, as a multifactorial disorder, have different respiratory-associated illnesses and occur because of different etiologies. Objectives: In this study, we investigated correlation between wheezing and cough conditions and different probable risk factors. Methods: This is a cross-sectional and hospital-based study conducted on 485 children with wheezing and chronic cough in hospitalized and outpatients. The pediatrician confirmed these disorders after evaluating children’s respiratory systems. Interns filled out the related standardized questionnaires for evaluating the risk factors. Results: In total, 485 children were evaluated, 268 children (55.3%) were male, and 217 children (44.7%) were female. Smoke and steam were recorded as the most common etiologies and risk factors of chronic cough and wheezing. Other factors evaluated in this study included 14% dust, 9% flowers, and plants, 10.9% cold air, 5.8% sporting, 4.5% spicy, and 35.7% other stimulants foods, and out of these factors had other stimulating factors (P = 0.0001). Conclusions: Based on these findings, lifestyle, diet, location, contact with triggers, treatment, and control of underlying disease, environmental hygiene, and type of fuel consumption may be effective in reducing the symptoms.

Evaluation of Aortic Root Dilation in Adult Patients after Repair of Tetralogy of Fallot

Background and Aim: Aortic root dilation is one of the common complications in patients with a history of tetralogy of Fallot total correction (TFTC). We evaluate the frequency of aortic root dilation in adult TFTC patients and analyze probable risk factors related to the dilated aortic root. Materials and Methods and Results: We reviewed echocardiography images of 146 adult TFTC patients who admitted at Rajaie Cardiovascular Medical and Research Center from 1383 to 1399 in an observational retrospective cohort study. Sinus of Valsalva (SOV) was measured in parasternal long-axis view. Aortic root dilation was determined by two definitions. When we adjusted SOV diameter for body surface area and sex, the frequency of aortic root dilation was 68%, with a mean SOV diameter of 3.5 ± 0.7 cm and when we used absolute diameter ≥4 cm for dilated SOV, 22% showed aortic root dilation. By multivariate logistic regression analysis, male sex (odds ratio (OR) = 3.47, P = 0.003), age at the time of TFTC (OR = 1.06, P = 0.009), and aortic regurgitation (OR = 3.97, P = 0.003) were associated with increased adds of dilated aortic root. Three patients underwent aortic surgery, including one case of type A aortic dissection. Conclusion: Although aortic root dilation was common, aneurysmal dilation and adverse events were not so frequent. Serial evaluation of all segments of the ascending aorta, including the aortic root, is important but not more frequent than previously suggested.

P1682: MTHFR C677T GENOTYPE IN CORRELATION WITH THROMBOSIS AND ASSOCIATION WITH FVIII COAGULANT ACTIVITY IN GREEK PAEDIATRIC POPULATION

Background: The polymorphism C>T substitution in position 677 (C677T) of the encoding gene of methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR), creates a thermolabile enzyme with reduced activity that may predispose to hyperhomocysteinemia, an established risk factor for arterial thrombosis and premature atherosclerosis and a probable risk factor for venous thromboembolic disease and its recurrence in the general population. There are conflicting results as to the role of the MTHFR C677T polymorphism as a risk factor for thrombosis. Although the homozygous substitution is often associated with hyperhomocysteinemia, mainly in folate deficiency, a clear association between this genetic marker and thrombosis has not yet been established. Aims: Primary aim was to evaluate the prevalence of mutant C677T MTHFR and its association with thrombosis in the Greek paediatric population. Secondary aim was to evaluate whether different MTHFR genotype is associated with evidence of activation of coagulation cascade through increased factor VIII activity. Methods: Data were retrospectively collected from children referred to our Haemostasis and Thrombosis Centre for laboratory screening of thrombophilia between 2018 and 2020. Some of them were checked due to history of thrombosis. Children were categorized according to MTHFR C677T genotype. FVIII Coagulant activity (%) was measured by One Stage Assay, away from acute thrombosis. The identification of mutations was based on polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and reverse- hybridization. Statistical analysis was performed with t-test and ANOVA. Results: A total of 688 children (boys: 49 %) of mean age 8.9± 8 years (0-18) were investigated. Twelve percent (81/688) of them had history of thrombosis, mainly venous thromboembolic disease. Children were categorized as follows: homozygous MTHFR C677T (15%), heterozygous (47%) and normal (38%). There was thrombosis history in 12% of homozygous MTHFR C677T, 11% heterozygous and 12 % of normal, fact showing that there is no association between MTHFR C677T genotype with thrombosis. Children with homozygosity MTHFR C677T, compared to children with heterozygosity and normal MTHFR C677T showed increased factor VIII values (132.8 vs 126.4 and 131.6, %, respectively), but without statistically significant difference. However, independently of MTHFR C677T genotype, mean factor VIII values were significantly increased in all children, with thrombosis history when they were compared to children without thrombosis history (161.3 vs 125.1, %, p<0.001). Interestingly, in children with thrombosis, mean factor VIII level was statistically increased in heterozygous and normal MTHFR C677T in contrast to children with MTHFR C677T homozygosity, in whom no statistically significant increase was found (166.9 vs 121.4, %-p<0.05, 160.2 vs 127.6, %-p<0.05 and 148.3 vs 130.6, %-p>0.05, respectively). Finally, it should be noticed that during the year 2020 mean factor VIII values were much increased in all children in comparison to the years 2018, 2019 and 2021 (137 vs 129, 123 and 127, %, respectively), probably reflecting the effects of unknown pandemic COVID-19 which initiated in 2020, and showing that factor VIII could be an evidence of stress condition. Summary/Conclusion: There is no probably association between MTHFR C677T genotype and thrombosis in our paediatric population. Moreover, it was not proved that different MTHFR genotypes affect factor VIII activity.

Identification of osteopenia and osteoporotic changes in pediatric thalassemia patients at thalassemia center, Misan city, Iraq; An intervention study

Background: Thalassemia syndrome is a heterogeneous group of hereditary disorders affecting the synthesis of globin chains of adult hemoglobin's, leading to ineffective erythropoiesis, hemolysis, and moderate to severe anemia. To identify the incidence of osteopenia and osteoporosis and it is relation to some of the probable risk factors of decreasing BMD among thalassemia patients attended Misan thalassemia center in Misan city in Iraq.&#x0D; Methods: A randomized cross-sectional study, applied through a period from September 2020 to September 2021, on 50 thalassemia patients attended thalassemia Center Amarah, Misan, Iraq. 24 were males and 26 were females, we divided them in to two groups according to age (10-14) years, (&gt;14-18) years. They were scanned for bone mineral density (BMD) at lumbar spine.&#x0D; Results: 90% of patients had reduction in BMD patients mostly among THM patients. 40% had positive family history of thalassemia, Vitamin D3 level were low in (80%) of patients &amp; DEXA studies were mostly between [(-1) -(-2.5)] before treatment that slightly improved after therapy in ranges of osteopenia but not in osteoporosis which increase severity as well.&#x0D; Conclusions: Most thalassemia patient had severe anemia, corrected by frequent blood transfusion are complicated by increasing serum ferritin level and decreasing level of vitamin D3 in association with reduction in bone density mass in ranges of osteopenia and osteoporosis which correlates positively with increasing ages, early age at diagnosis and female gender this altered bone mass density require family awareness for better nutrition and optimum medical therapy and compliance to improve outcomes. &#x0D;

Sepsis Profile of Neonates Admitted to Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of a Tertiary Care Hospital

Background: Neonatal sepsis is defined as a clinical condition of bacteremia with clinical features of infection in the first 28 days of life. Neonatal sepsis is an important cause of neonatal deaths worldwide. If detected early and treated aggressively and appropriately with antibiotics with good supportive care, it can be possible to save a life. Objective: The present study is carried out to overview the clinical and investigations profile, and outcome of neonatal sepsis admitted in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective descriptive study. This study included newborns diagnosed with neonatal sepsis admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) of Khwaja Yunus Ali Medical College and Hospital, Sirajgonj from October 2020 to January 2022. The case records of 50 neonatal sepsis. The case records of these newborns were thoroughly studied and recorded for relevant information including detailed history including maternal, clinical evaluation, and available investigation. The outcome was also noted. Results: Among the 50 neonatal sepsis cases early-onset neonatal sepsis was 56%; where mostly preterm (74%) and low birth weight (44%). Clinical presentations were mostly reluctant to feed (70%) associated with other septic features. Septicemia only (36%), pneumonia (14%), neonatal intestinal obstruction (10%) were found as the main pattern of sepsis. Among the cases septic screening profile thrombocytopenia 84%, CRP Positive 78%, leukopenia 58%, anemia 26%, leukocytosis 22%, normal 20%, toxic granules or band form neutrophil 14%, positive blood culture 14% were found. Probable risk factors were found mainly low birth weight (78%) and prematurity (74%); overlapping with many other risk factors. Thirty-six percent were death among sepsis. Conclusion: In the neonatal intensive care unit mostly early-onset neonatal sepsis has been observed in outborn, premature, and Low Birth Weight (LBW) babies presenting with reluctance to feed with associated risk factors; where thrombocytopenia invariably found in sepsis screening and survival rate around sixty-five percent KYAMC Journal Vol. 13, No. 01, April 2022: 32-36

Ms. Noemi Monika Szeifert

IntroductionWorking in COVID – 19 Health Care Units – Psychological impacts (PTSD, Depression, Anxiety Disorders) Working in the frontline during COVID-19 has put under extreme psychological and physical pressure the health care workers. The severe psychological symptomps can emerge on short, mid and long term as well. Our research is focusing on the psychological impacts of front line health care workers.Objectives In our lecture, we summarize our reserach made in the National Traumatology Center, Budapest, Hungary among health care workers who worked in the front and in the second line during the most severe period of the pandemic in Hungary, and discuss probable risk factors for PTSD and chronic psychological distress related to COVID-19. Furthermore we make an overview on the most frequently used coping skills for dealing with the psychological stress caused by the pandemic among the health care workers. The sample taking was processed in July 2021, after 3 month the 3rd COVID – 19 wave officially ended in Hungary.Methods 123 health care workers completed the online survey anonimously, included Beck Depression Inventory, Spielberger Anxiety State Inventory, PTSD Checklist, Lazarus Coping Scale.Results23% of HCW reported symptomps of depression, nearly 25% dealing with sleeping disorders and 38% with chronic fatigue, 42,50 % HCW suffering from anxiety disorders, 22% HCW experiencing symptomps of PTSD.ConclusionsWith our results we would like to raise awareness of the challenges and severe psychological consequences that these colleagues, our national heroes we can say, are facing after working in COVID-19 Health Care Units.DisclosureNo significant relationships.

ПРЕДИКТИВНЫЕ ФАКТОРЫ И МЕХАНИЗМЫ ИХ РЕАЛИЗАЦИИ В РАЗВИТИИ ПРЕДРАКОВЫХ И ОНКОЛОГИЧЕСКИХ ЗАБОЛЕВАНИЙ СЛИЗИСТОЙ ОБОЛОЧКИ ПОЛОСТИ РТА

The problem of oncological and precancerous diseases of the oral mucosa is urgent, because the prevalence of these diseases is high, as well as malignant neoplasms of this localization are among the most aggressive and difficult to treat human neoplasms, characterized by a high percentage of mortality.&#x0D; These facts determine the increased importance of primary prevention of precancerous and cancerous diseases, the purpose of which is to identify and eliminate predictive factors of the development of these pathologies.&#x0D; Objective of the study is to conduct a systematic analysis of modern Russian and foreign literary sources in the aspect of predictive factors of the occurrence of precancerous and cancerous diseases of the red border of the lips and oral mucosa and their main mechanisms.&#x0D; Methodology. The research is based on the search and analysis of modern Russian and foreign original sources on the topic in the databases eLibrary, Pubmed, Crossref.&#x0D; Results. The development of precancerous and oncological diseases is a complex multifactorial process that proceeds under the influence of a number of prognostic factors that have both isolated and synergistic effects on the human body at the local or general level.&#x0D; Conclusion. We have analyzed the scientific literature, which indicates a significant contribution of a wide range of modifiable and unmodifiable factors in the development of precancerous and oncological processes. Identification and correction of probable risk factors for the occurrence of precancerous and oncological diseases of the oral mucosa can help prevent the development of these diseases.

The Association between Childhood Exposure to Ambient Air Pollution and Obesity: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Obesity has become a worldwide epidemic; 340 million of children and adolescents were overweight or obese in 2016, and this number continues to grow at a rapid rate. Epidemiological research has suggested that air pollution affects childhood obesity and weight status, but the current evidence remains inconsistent. Therefore, the aim of this meta-analysis was to estimate the effects of childhood exposure to air pollutants on weight. A total of four databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library) were searched for publications up to December 31, 2021, and finally 15 studies met the inclusion criteria for meta-analysis. Merged odds ratios (ORs), coefficients (β), and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) that were related to air pollutants were estimated using a random-effects model. The meta-analysis indicated that air pollutants were correlated with childhood obesity and weight gain. For obesity, the association was considerable for PM10 (OR = 1.12, 95% CI: 1.06, 1.18), PM2.5 (OR = 1.28, 95% CI: 1.13, 1.45), PM1 (OR = 1.41, 95% CI: 1.30, 1.53), and NO2 (OR = 1.11, 95% CI: 1.06, 1.18). Similarly, BMI status increased by 0.08 (0.03–0.12), 0.11 (0.05–0.17), and 0.03 (0.01–0.04) kg/m2 with 10 μg/m3 increment in exposure to PM10, PM2.5, and NO2. In summary, air pollution can be regarded as a probable risk factor for the weight status of children and adolescents. The next step is to conduct longer-term and large-scale studies on different population subgroups, exposure concentrations, and pollutant combinations to provide detailed evidence. Meanwhile, integrated management of air pollution is essential.

Role of Interleukin-10 (1082G/A) and Splicing Factor 3B Subunit 1 (2098A/G) Gene Polymorphisms in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia

OBJECTIVE: Interleukin-10 (IL-10) gene polymorphisms might play a part in the development of some malignant tumors. It has been linked with high bcl-2 expression in some B-lymphocyte malignancies. Its relationship with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) development is still under investigation. Other studies have linked Splicing Factor 3B Subunit 1 (SF3B1) mutations to a poorer prognosis of CLL. From this context, we have great interest to investigate the effect of both IL-10 (1082G/A) and SF3B1 (2098A/G) gene polymorphisms on CLL in this study. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were analyzed for IL-10 (1082G/A) and SF3B1 (2098A/G) gene polymorphisms by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction in 80 newly diagnosed CLL patients and 80 controls. RESULTS: Our results showed that the IL-10 (G/A) genotype, IL-10 (A/A) genotype and IL-10 A allele and SF3B1 (A/G) genotype and SF3B1 G allele were increased significantly in the patients group compared with the control group. CONCLUSION: IL-10 gene polymorphisms (1082 G/A and A/A) and A alleles might be associated with increased risk of CLL development compared with G/G genotypes and G alleles and are a probable risk factor for the disease. Also, our study demonstrated that SF3B1 (2098A/G) polymorphisms and G allele are related to and might be a causative factor for CLL.

Case series of COVID-19 in chronic kidney disease patients under peritoneal dialysis at a northern Portuguese center

COVID-19 is a pandemic and life-threatening respiratory disease. Chronic kidney disease is a probable risk factor for more severe COVID-19, but outcomes in the peritoneal dialysis population are scarce. We analyzed our peritoneal dialysis center COVID-19 cases from March 2020 to January 2021, before full vaccination with the Pfizer BNT 162b2 mRNA vaccine in February 2021. There were 13 cases of COVID-19 out of 96 patients on peritoneal dialysis (cumulative incidence 13,5 cases per 1000 patients-month). Nine were considered mild (76,9%), two moderate (15,4%) and one severe/critical (7,7%). There was one asymptomatic case. The most common presenting signs and symptoms were myalgia, cough, fever, asthenia, hypotension, and loss of smell and/or taste. Only one patient required oxygen in the ICU. There was a hospitalization rate of 30,8% (three mild and one severe/critical) and a median time of hospitalization until discharge, or death, of 6 days. The most common reason for hospitalization was hypotension and asthenia, without respiratory failure (three mild out of four hospitalizations). One patient died (7,7%) and 12 patients recovered well (92,3%). Of eleven patients presenting with COVID-19 symptoms, nine reported persisting symptoms for over one month (81,8%). In conclusion, COVID-19 in patients under peritoneal dialysis had a relatively benign course with symptoms mainly unrelated to the respiratory tract.

Seroprevalence and risk factors of Toxocara canis infection in children aged 2–15 years from the southwest Iran

Human toxocariasis (HT) is one of the most prevalent zoonotic diseases with a worldwide distribution. There is no epidemiological study showing the seroprevalence of toxocariasis among children in southwest Iran, Khuzestan Province. Accordingly, this study was designed to estimate the seroprevalence of Toxocara canis (T. canis) IgG antibodies in children (2–15 years old) and assess the main risk factors associated to human infection. In this cross-sectional study, a total of 259 children were invited to participate from the southwest Iran (Abadan and Khorramshahr cities, Khuzestan Province) between April to August 2021. Serum anti-T. canis IgG antibodies were measured using a commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). A structured questionnaire was also employed to collect some socio-demographic information and probable risk factors associated to T. canis infection. The overall seroprevalence rate of T. canis in children was 7.3% (95% CI = 4.75 – 11.17%). The univariate analysis demonstrated that living in rural communities (P < 0.001), drinking unpurified water (P < 0.001), contact with cat (P = 0.033), consumption of improperly washed vegetables (P = 0.002), and history of drinking water from unsafe sources (P = 0.003) were risk factors associated with T. canis seroprevalence in children. However, after adjusting for confounders, multivariable logistic regression analysis verified that only drinking unpurified water (P = 0.016) remained a significant risk factor. In addition, both univariate (P = 0.032) and multivariate logistic regression analysis (P = 0.037) revealed that seropositivity of T. canis infection was significantly associated with asthma. The current report provides beneficial baseline epidemiological findings regarding the seroprevalence of T. canis in children as a vulnerable group for this infection. This data can be used by health policy makers to plan effective prevention programs and control this neglected infection among high risk subjects.

Association between Parental Stress and Early Childhood Caries Experience among Preschool Children in Maduravoyal, Chennai: A Cross-sectional Study.

BackgroundIn recent decades stress has emerged as a variable of significant interest in the examination of oral health.ObjectiveTo study the association between parental stress and early childhood caries experience among 3-5 years old children.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted among 342 randomly selected mother-child dyads in Maduravoyal, Chennai. The mothers were stratified into four stress categories based on their parental stress scores from the Parental Stress Scale (Berry and Jones, 1995). The children were classified into three subgroups, no caries [dmft = 0], low caries [dmft = 1-2], and high caries [dmft≥3]. Chi-square test with Yates’ continuity correction and Spearman's rank correlation were used as statistical test methods.ResultsAmong the mothers with no stress, 44.9% had children in the no caries group, compared to 21.6% in the low caries and 7.3% in the high caries group [p < 0.001]. And among the mothers with mild to moderate stress, 6.3% had children in the no caries group, compared to 5.4% in the low caries and 30% in the high caries group [p < 0.001]. A positive correlation between parental stress and early childhood caries experience was observed [rho = 0.461, p < 0.001].ConclusionA significant moderate positive correlation between parental stress and early childhood caries experience was observed. Stressful parents can be a probable risk factor for early childhood caries. Hence, providing prenatal counseling will be of added value to all expecting mothers.How to cite this articleMahapatra S, Chaly PE, Junaid M, et al. Association between Parental Stress and Early Childhood Caries Experience among Preschool Children in Maduravoyal, Chennai: A Cross-sectional Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2022;15(S-2):S131-S134.

Pharmacovigilance in Homoeopathy—Need of the Hour: A Narrative Review

Abstract Background Homoeopathy is the newest art and science of healing. Like conventional medicine, pharmacovigilance is an important aspect of homoeopathy. There is a paucity of knowledge and ignorance among the practitioners. The necessity is to create awareness and encourage the homoeopathic professionals regarding drug safety surveillance, documentation and reporting of adverse events. Methods A web-based online search from databases, journals, bibliographic resources regarding the practice of pharmacovigilance in homoeopathy was done. Articles and publications till January 2021 along with literature from homoeopathic books were analysed. Results Data on adverse drug reactions (ADRs) and events in homoeopathy have been collected and reported in European countries. In India, of late these terminologies are being acknowledged among a group of homoeopathic practitioners only. Still, a dearth of cognizance on the subject exists and little reporting is done. People usually do not relate such adverse reactions to the use of homoeopathic medicines. For scrutinising the same, the Ministry of AYUSH, Govt. of India, has taken an initiative for Pharmacovigilance of Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani &amp; Homoeopathy systems of medicine for reporting and taking measures against ADR and objectionable advertisements. The probable risk factors and ways to prevent ADR and benefits of pharmacovigilance in homoeopathic practice could be deduced. Conclusion Homoeopathy is a widely followed system of medicine that is quite popular among the common people. The need of knowledge and promotion of suspected ADR reporting should be emphasised to increase the credibility of homoeopathy among the scientific community. Also, the profession should refrain from misleading and objectionable advertisements in print and electronic media.

The Rate of Successful Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation in COVID-19 Patients: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

Background: This study aims to provide information on the success rate of CPR in COVID-19 patients and some probable risk factors of mortality in these cases. Methods: In this historical cohort design, the CPR success rate probable risk factors of 737 critically ill patients during the COVID-19 pandemic in 17 hospitals in the catchment area of Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran, was evaluated between Feb and Apr 2020. Data were extracted from a database that is a part of a national integrated care electronic health record system and analyzed with logistic and Cox regression models. Results: COVID-19 cases were 341 (46.3%). The mean age in COVID-19 cases and non-COVID-19 patients were 70.0±14.6 and 63.0±19.3 years, respectively (P<0.001). The mortality was significantly higher in COVID-19 patients (99.1% vs. 74%, OR: 39.6, 95%CI: 12.4, 126.2). Cardiovascular diseases were the most frequent underlying disease (46.3% of COVID-19 cases and 35.1% of non-COVID-19 patients). Being a COVID-19 case (OR: 29.0, 95%CI: 8.9, 93.2), Intensive care unit admission (OR: 2.6, 95%CI: 1.5, 4.6) and age for each ten-year increase (OR: 1.2, 95%CI: 1.1, 1.4) were observed to be independent risk factors of mortality following CPR. The hazard ratio of being a COVID-19 patient was HR= 1.8 (95%CI: 1.5, 2.1). Conclusion: Critically ill COVID-19 patients who undergo CPR have a decreased chance of survival in comparison to non-COVID-19 patients.