Systemic Ailments Research Articles

Oral Pathobiont-Derived Outer Membrane Vesicles in the Oral–Gut Axis

Oral pathobionts are essential in instigating local inflammation within the oral cavity and contribute to the pathogenesis of diseases in the gastrointestinal tract and other distant organs. Among the Gram-negative pathobionts, Porphyromonas gingivalis and Fusobacterium nucleatum emerge as critical drivers of periodontitis, exerting their influence not only locally but also as inducers of gut dysbiosis, intestinal disturbances, and systemic ailments. This dual impact is facilitated by their ectopic colonization of the intestinal mucosa and the subsequent mediation of distal systemic effects by releasing outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) into circulation. This review elucidates the principal components of oral pathobiont-derived OMVs implicated in disease pathogenesis within the oral–gut axis, detailing virulence factors that OMVs carry and their interactions with host epithelial and immune cells, both in vitro and in vivo. Additionally, we shed light on the less acknowledged interplay between oral pathobionts and the gut commensal Akkermansia muciniphila, which can directly impede oral pathobionts’ growth and modulate bacterial gene expression. Notably, OMVs derived from A. muciniphila emerge as promoters of anti-inflammatory effects within the gastrointestinal and distant tissues. Consequently, we explore the potential of A. muciniphila-derived OMVs to interact with oral pathobionts and prevent disease in the oral–gut axis.

Role of Viddhakarma as an Adjuvant Treatment in the Ayurveda Management of Diabetic Vitreous Haemorrhage with Special Reference to Tritiya Patalgata Doshadushtijanya Timira

Vitreous hemorrhage is one of the most common reasons for sudden painless decrease in vision. Often it is caused by retinal vascular disorder secondary to common systemic ailments such as diabetes mellitus, systemic hypertension etc. The symptoms of vitreous hemorrhage can be correlated to Tritiya Patalagata Doshdustijanya Timira in Ayurveda. Asravisravan is an Ayurvedic treatment modality indicated for all types of Netra Rogas. In Timira’s Samanya Chikitsa, Asravisravan is indicated by Acharya Vagbhata. Suchi is one of the Shastras that can be used for Raktavisravan. Usage of 26 number needle will facilitate the controlled Raktavisravan. This method of puncturing with needle is called as Viddhakarma. A diagnosed case of diabetic vitreous hemorrhage with complaints of both eyes diminished vision since one month approached to our Out Patient Department and was managed by Nasya, Netratrapan, Viddhakarma and systemic medicines. A prior written consent was obtained from the patient. Significant visual improvement was noticed after the treatment.

Gingival Overgrowth in Cheilitis Glandularis: A Case Report

Originally called gingival hyperplasia, gingival enlargement is a typical feature of many disorders, including inflammation, drug-induced conditions, systemic ailments, pregnancy, diseases like leukemia, and treatment-induced situations like gingival enlargement caused by orthodontic therapy. Of them, the primary cause of inflammatory-induced gingival expansion is the deposition of etiological substances, specifically calculus and plaque. Present case report is on a 24 years old male patient who has a history of cheilitis glandularis, and reported to the Department of Periodontology for gingival enlargement.

Advancements in the Research of Therapeutic Mechanisms of Kidney-Nourishing Approach for Premature Ovarian Failure

Premature ovarian failure (POF) is a prevalent condition that significantly impairs the quality of life for women during their reproductive years. Its implications for patients and their daily routines are profound, and the disease's chronic progression can even trigger a range of other systemic ailments. In recent years, numerous studies have highlighted the reduced toxicity and side effects of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in treating POF, along with its notable therapeutic effects. TCM holds that the kidney governs reproduction, and a robust kidney essence leads to strong reproductive function. The kidney-produced "Tiangui" directly oversees menstruation. As such, the approach of nourishing the kidney and regulating menstruation in treating POF is grounded in solid theory and rich practical experience. This paper, from the perspective of kidney nourishment in TCM, reviews relevant research both domestically and internationally on how TCM's kidney-nourishing prescriptions improve POF. It also summarizes the mechanisms involved, aiming to provide valuable insights for clinical efficacy and treatment strategies for POF.

Managing rheumatoid arthritis and cardiovascular disease: the role of physical medicine and rehabilitation.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) presents a significant challenge in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a systemic chronic ailment affecting the joints and causing systemic inflammation. Effective RA management, including pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions, is crucial for mitigating cardiac risk. Pharmacotherapy, though effective, can have adverse effects, leading many patients to seek complementary therapies. This study investigates the impact of physical medicine and rehabilitation on RA management in patients with cardiovascular disease, analyzing clinical data to assess the efficacy of integrated therapeutic approaches. This retrospective monocentric study draws upon data from patient records at the Rheumatology Department of the Regional Clinical Hospital of Shymkent, Kazakhstan, spanning 2019 to 2022. Data collected included demographic information, diagnoses, comorbidities, medical anamneses, lab results, and treatment regimens, including physical medicine and rehabilitation interventions. Data were summarized in Microsoft Excel. Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics (version 26.0). An analysis of 350 patients with RA identified 143 cases of concomitant CVD, with arterial hypertension being the most common cardiovascular disease. The prevalence of CVD among patients with RA was 40%, with a mean age of 58 years, peaking between 50 and 65 years. The majority of patients were women. A strong association was found between increased RA activity and elevated cardiovascular risk. Despite the widespread use of glucocorticosteroid therapy, rehabilitation coverage remained limited. A significant proportion of patients had elevated cholesterol and C-reactive protein levels, while those who engaged in physical therapy and rehabilitation had lower cholesterol levels. Comparative analysis of yoga integration into rehabilitation programs for patients with RA, alongside other modalities (kinesiotherapy, balneotherapy, and pilates), showed that yoga participants exhibited lower pain levels, reduced morning stiffness duration, and lower mean DAS-28 scores compared to those using alternative rehabilitation methods. Integrating physical medicine and rehabilitation, particularly yoga, with pharmacological treatments appears promising for improving patient outcomes. Yoga has demonstrated benefits in reducing pain, morning stiffness, and disease activity. Continued research is essential to refine these approaches and enhance RA and CVD management in patients.

Halitosis occurrence due to systemic disease and medication

Background: Halitosis, a term originating from "halitisus" and the Greek suffix "osis," refers to malodorous breath. It is a common problem impacting individuals globally, with prevalence estimates ranging from 24% to 65%. Dental issues, dry mouth, infections, medications, and systemic diseases can contribute to halitosis. Notably, systemic conditions like kidney and liver diseases, diabetes, respiratory infections, and gastritis can produce distinct odors in the mouth. The management of halitosis focuses on identifying and addressing underlying causes, with intraoral interventions like oral hygiene measures and extraoral treatments such as medical management based on the etiology. Objectives: To review and clarify association between halitosis with systemic diseases and medication. Conclusion: This study reveals a notable correlation between halitosis and systemic diseases or medication. Halitosis, a common occurrence influenced by various factors, appears to have a strong association with systemic ailments and medication usage.

Causal Links Between Systemic Disorders and Keratoconus in European Population

PurposeThe objective of this study was to establish the presence of a causal linkage between prevalent systemic diseases and keratoconus (KC). DesignMendelian randomization (MR) analysis. MethodsAfter an exhaustive screening process, genetic variants linked to various systemic diseases were identified as instrumental variables at the genome-wide significance level. Subsequently, MR analyses were conducted to elucidate their potential causal connection with KC (N = 26,742). The encompassed systemic ailments comprise diabetes, hay fever/allergic rhinitis/eczema, obstructive sleep apnea, thyroid dysfunction, aortic aneurysm, major depressive disorder, inflammatory bowel disease (including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis), and mitral valve prolapse. Our study adheres to the principles of Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology Using Mendelian Randomization guidelines. ResultsUsing inverse variance weighting as the primary MR analysis method, our findings revealed that hay fever/allergic rhinitis/eczema (odds ratio, 10.144; 95% CI, 2.441 - 42.149; P = 0.001) and ulcerative colitis (odds ratio, 1.147; 95% CI, 1.054 - 1.248; P = 0.002) were associated with an increased risk of KC within the largest population under scrutiny. Conversely, the prolonged hyperglycemic state did not exhibit a potentially protective effect in delaying the pathogenesis of KC, and no correlation was observed between the two (odds ratio, 0.320; 95% CI, 0.029 - 3.549; P = 0.353). Also, obstructive sleep apnea, thyroid function, aortic aneurysm, major depressive disorder, Crohn's disease, and mitral valve prolapse did not exhibit a causal association with KC (P > 0.05 for all comparisons). ConclusionsThis study indicates an increased risk of KC related to hay fever/allergic rhinitis/eczema and ulcerative colitis, with diabetes not providing a protective effect. These findings may potentially contribute some insights to inform clinical interventions.

EFFECTIVENESS, OUTCOME, AND SAFETY OF VITAMIN D SUPPLEMENTATION IN PATIENTS WITH PSORIASIS: A COMPREHENSIVE SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Background: Insights into psoriasis as a systemic ailment have spurred the investigation of novel therapies due to dissatisfaction with current treatments and significant quality of life impairment. Vitamin D3 deficiency is implicated in psoriasis pathophysiology, with studies highlighting its impact on keratinocyte regulation and autoimmune disease resistance. This review critically evaluates evidence on high-dose oral vitamin D3 supplementation for psoriasis management, aiming to assess its effectiveness, treatment outcomes, and safety profile to inform clinician. Methods: This systematic review focused on full-text English literature published between 2017 and 2024 using the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Editorials and review pieces published in the same journal as the submission without a DOI were not accepted. The literature was compiled using PubMed, ScienceDirect, and SagePub, among other online venues. Result: Our research team initially collected numerous publications from credible sources such as Science Direct, PubMed, and JAMA Dermatology. Employing a meticulous three-tier screening approach, we identified only five papers that were directly pertinent to our ongoing systematic assessment. Subsequently, we conducted a comprehensive examination of the entire text and further selected articles; case control study, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study, randomized controlled trial, a bidirectional two-sample mendelian randomization analysis, and observational cross-sectional study. Conclusion: In conclusion, maintaining serum vitamin D levels above 30 ng/ml may benefit severe psoriasis, while oral vitamin D2 supplementation showed promise in mild cases. Larger trials are needed for severe psoriasis, and future research should explore higher doses. Additionally, a study found no support for monthly vitamin D3 supplementation in older mild psoriasis patients. We confirmed the causal link between vitamin D levels and psoriasis, identified associations with increased risk, and explored effects on atopic dermatitis. While no significant difference was found in serum vitamin D levels between psoriasis patients and controls, lower levels in psoriasis suggest various influences.

Bioinformatics and system biology approaches to determine the connection of SARS-CoV-2 infection and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma.

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the causal agent of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), has infected millions of individuals worldwide, which poses a severe threat to human health. COVID-19 is a systemic ailment affecting various tissues and organs, including the lungs and liver. Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) is one of the most common liver cancer, and cancer patients are particularly at high risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Nonetheless, few studies have investigated the impact of COVID-19 on ICC patients. With the methods of systems biology and bioinformatics, this study explored the link between COVID-19 and ICC, and searched for potential therapeutic drugs. This study identified a total of 70 common differentially expressed genes (DEGs) shared by both diseases, shedding light on their shared functionalities. Enrichment analysis pinpointed metabolism and immunity as the primary areas influenced by these common genes. Subsequently, through protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis, we identified SCD, ACSL5, ACAT2, HSD17B4, ALDOA, ACSS1, ACADSB, CYP51A1, PSAT1, and HKDC1 as hub genes. Additionally, 44 transcription factors (TFs) and 112 microRNAs (miRNAs) were forecasted to regulate the hub genes. Most importantly, several drug candidates (Periodate-oxidized adenosine, Desipramine, Quercetin, Perfluoroheptanoic acid, Tetrandrine, Pentadecafluorooctanoic acid, Benzo[a]pyrene, SARIN, Dorzolamide, 8-Bromo-cAMP) may prove effective in treating ICC and COVID-19. This study is expected to provide valuable references and potential drugs for future research and treatment of COVID-19 and ICC.

Celiac Disease Review: Background and Emphasis on the Important Role of Health Education in the Prevention and Control of Symptom

Celiac disease is related to dietary gluten found in wheat, rye, and barley, CD is an immune-mediated enteropathy and it is one of the most prevalent lifelong food-related illnesses globally. In addition, CD is also thought to be a systemic ailment marked by a variety of gluten-related signs and symptoms as well as disease-specific antibodies. When gluten is consumed, it produces toxic gluten peptides that can trigger both innate and adaptive immune responses in people who are predisposed to them. The transglutaminase enzyme plays a role in the development of the situation by deaminating gluten to produce glutamic acid. Furthermore, the peptidase enzyme finds it difficult to break down the prolamin component of gluten, which is high in proline and glutamine. This leads to incomplete protein digestion and the creation of peptides that trigger the immunological response. Moreover, CD causes remarkable damage to the small intestinal mucosa in the jejunum, resulting in inflammation of the villi and villous atrophy, which hinders the absorption of nutrients. Combining small intestine mucosal histology under a gluten-containing diet with CD serology allows for the diagnosis of the condition. A stringent lifelong gluten-free diet is now the only effective treatment for CD; nevertheless, the diet is demanding, and avoiding gluten is challenging. Further research is needed to improve and develop the diagnosis and treatment of CD via healthcare professional education programs.

Advancing systemic disease diagnosis through ophthalmic image‐based artificial intelligence

AbstractThe eye serves as a unique window into systemic health, offering clinicians a valuable opportunity for early detection and targeted treatment. Against this backdrop, advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and ophthalmic imaging are converging to pave the way for more precise and predictive diagnostics. This review aims to elucidate the transformative role of AI in utilizing ophthalmic imaging for the detection and prediction of systemic diseases. We begin by introducing the advantages of the eye as a valuable tool for detecting systemic diseases. We also provide an overview of various ophthalmic imaging techniques that have proven useful in predicting systemic ailments. Then, we summarize two research patterns for analyzing ocular data, followed by the introduction of current AI applications using ophthalmic images that significantly increase diagnostic precision. Despite the promise, challenges such as data heterogeneity and model interpretability persist, which are also covered in this review. We conclude by discussing future directions and the immense potential these AI‐enabled approaches hold for revolutionizing healthcare. As AI technologies advance, their potential integration with ophthalmic imaging offers promising avenues for improving the diagnosis, prediction, and management of various systemic diseases, thereby contributing to the evolving landscape of integrated healthcare.

A Case of Chlamydophila psittaci Caused Pneumonia and Encephalitis Diagnosed by Metagenome Next-Generation Sequencing and Clinical Analysis

Introduction: Psittacosis represents a systemic infectious ailment primarily characterized by respiratory manifestations; however, the clinical presentation exhibits considerable diversity, posing challenges in promptly identifying this disease with its nonspecific features. Metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) serves as a valuable tool enabling expeditious pathogen identification and facilitating targeted therapeutic interventions. Case Presentation: An instance pertinent to this context involves a septuagenarian female patient who sought admission to Zhejiang Hospital on account of presenting with elevated body temperature, respiratory distress, and signs of altered mental state. Despite the initiation of empiric antibiotic therapy as the primary medical intervention, the patient's condition displayed a progressive deterioration. Notably, a subsequent investigation endeavor employing mNGS identified the presence of the Chlamydophila psittaci nucleic acid sequence, causative of psittacosis, within both her bloodstream and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). The subsequent therapeutic administration of doxycycline not only elicited a marked amelioration in her clinical status but also facilitated her eventual discharge from our care. Conclusions: The coexistence of psittacosis lung infection and cerebral vasculitis is rare. Thorough documentation and analysis of such cases are essential for enhanced understanding and clinical consideration. In such cases where the infection is severe but does not respond to empirical antimicrobial therapy, mNGS can help with the diagnosis to identify the pathogen and target treatment.

The role of different factors in the development of cleft lip, palate, or both

Background: Cleft lip and cleft palate refer to congenital malformations characterized by fissures or divisions in the upper lip, the palatal region of the mouth, or both. Cleft lip and cleft palate occur due to incomplete closure of face tissues during fetal development. Objective: To identify the primary elements that could contribute to the occurrence of cleft lip and palate. Subjects and methods: The sample included 1080 patients distributed between cleft lip only, cleft palate only, and cleft lip and palate. Parents of participants answered questions related to their medical and exposure history. Subjects were seen over 13 years, from 1 January 2010 to 31 December 2022. Participants came to our hospital with ages from a few hours to 3 months. Results: The distribution of cleft types in the sample was as follows: 11.6% had cleft lip alone, 29.5% had cleft palate exclusively, and 57.3% had both cleft lip and palate. The most significant number of patients, 28%, were found to be first-born individuals. The majority of dads who exhibited patience were aged 30 years or older, accounting for 65% of the sample. Among these individuals, 8.6% had a concurrent systemic ailment, while 40% were identified as smokers. Most moms were between the age range of 16 to 30 years (65.4%). Incorporate additional factors into the analysis, including the presence of familial cleft history and psychiatric disorders. Conclusion: We found a high frequency of consanguinity between the parents maternal psychology factors such as fear, hearing bad news or hearing loud sounds like gunshots (prevalent during civilian war in Iraq between 2010-2014 years) among parents of children born with cleft lip and palate.

Ocular manifestations of acute myeloid leukemia during induction phase of chemotherapy: A case series

The aim of this series is to report diverse ocular features noted in patients during the induction phase in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Three female patients undergoing induction therapy for AML reporting for various ocular complaints were examined. Detailed history, including the onset of AML and chemotherapy and any past ocular or systemic ailment, was taken. Best-corrected visual acuity, anterior segment, and posterior segment examinations were performed. Intraocular pressure was measured, and color vision was tested. Routine hematological, and biochemical investigations and imaging were done when required. Patients with abnormal parameters were referred to an oncologist for management. A varied spectrum of ocular manifestations was noted in these three female patients, including preseptal cellulitis, orbital cellulitis, and subhyaloid hemorrhages. Immediate treatment was given to patients with vision-threatening conditions in consultation with an oncologist and otorhinolaryngologist, and patients responded well to the treatment. Owing to its cytoreductive action, AML induction therapy exposes the patient to various adverse events, causing significant ocular and systemic morbidity. All the diagnosed patients of AML are recommended to undergo a baseline ocular assessment.

Does crocin create new hope for the treatment of oral problems? A focus on periodontitis.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO) reports, oral health has an indispensable role in the maintenance of human public health. However, oral problems, especially periodontitis, are known as bad players in this issue. Periodontitis, as the most prevalent oral disease, is a type of chronic illness mediated by bacterial pathogens and immune system reactions, which is linked with the destruction of tooth-protecting tissues, such as alveolar bone and periodontal ligament. Periodontitis has a high prevalence (over 40% in the United States) and can be associated with other systemic ailments, for instance, arthritis, osteoporosis, metabolic syndrome, cancer, respiratory diseases, chronic kidney disease, and Alzheimer's disease. The common treatments for periodontitis are classified into invasive (surgical) and noninvasive (antibiotic therapy, scaling, and root planning) methods; however, these therapies have not reflected enough effectiveness for related patients. New documents inform the beneficial effects of plant-based compounds in healing various disorders, like periodontitis. In conjunction with this subject, it has been revealed that crocin, as an active component of saffron, regulates the balance between osteoclasts and osteoblasts and has a stroking role in the accumulation of the most common collagen in teeth and bone (type 1 collagen). Besides, this carotenoid compound possesses anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative effects, which can be associated with the therapeutic processes of crocin in this oral disease. Hence, this narrative review study was performed to reflect the reparative/regenerative aspects of crocin agonist periodontitis.

The Prevalence of Endometriosis in Patients with Unexplained Infertility.

Endometriosis, a systemic ailment, profoundly affects various aspects of life, often eluding detection for over a decade. This leads to enduring issues such as chronic pain, infertility, emotional strain, and potential organ dysfunction. The prolonged absence of diagnosis can contribute to unexplained obstetric challenges and fertility issues, necessitating costly and emotionally taxing treatments. While biopsy remains the gold standard for diagnosis, emerging noninvasive screening methods are gaining prominence. These tests can indicate endometriosis in cases of unexplained infertility, offering valuable insights to patients and physicians managing both obstetric and non-obstetric conditions. In a retrospective cross-sectional study involving 215 patients aged 25 to 45 with unexplained infertility, diagnostic laparoscopy was performed after unsuccessful reproductive technology attempts. Pathology results revealed tissue abnormalities in 98.6% of patients, with 90.7% showing endometriosis, confirmed by the presence of endometrial-like glands and stroma. The study underscores the potential role of endometriosis in unexplained infertility cases. Although the study acknowledges selection bias, a higher than previously reported prevalence suggests evaluating endometriosis in patients who have not responded to previous reproductive interventions may be justified. Early detection holds significance due to associations with ovarian cancer, prolonged fertility drug use, pregnancy complications, and elevated post-delivery stroke risk.

Single-cell and bulk RNAseq unveils the immune infiltration landscape and targeted therapeutic biomarkers of psoriasis.

Psoriasis represents a multifaceted and debilitating immune-mediated systemic ailment afflicting millions globally. Despite the continuous discovery of biomarkers associated with psoriasis, identifying lysosomal biomarkers, pivotal as cellular metabolic hubs, remains elusive. We employed a combination of differential expression analysis and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) to initially identify lysosomal genes. Subsequently, to mitigate overfitting and eliminate collinear genes, we applied 12 machine learning algorithms to screen robust lysosomal genes. These genes underwent further refinement through random forest (RF) and Lasso algorithms to ascertain the final hub lysosomal genes. To assess their predictive efficacy, we conducted receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis and verified the expression of diagnostic biomarkers at both bulk and single-cell levels. Furthermore, we utilized single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA), CIBERSORT, and Pearson's correlation analysis to elucidate the association between immune phenotypes and hub lysosomal genes in psoriatic samples. Finally, employing the Cellchat algorithm, we explored potential mechanisms underlying the participation of these hub lysosomal genes in cell-cell communication. Functional enrichment analyses revealed a close association between psoriasis and lysosomal functions. Subsequent intersection analysis identified 19 key lysosomal genes, derived from DEGs, phenotypic genes of WGCNA, and lysosomal gene sets. Following the exclusion of collinear genes, we identified 11 robust genes, further refined through RF and Lasso, yielding 3 hub lysosomal genes (S100A7, SERPINB13, and PLBD1) closely linked to disease occurrence, with high predictive capability for disease diagnosis. Concurrently, we validated their relative expression in separate bulk datasets and single-cell datasets. A nomogram based on these hub genes may offer clinical advantages for patients. Notably, these three hub genes facilitated patient classification into two subtypes, namely metabolic-immune subtype 1 and signaling subtype 2. CMap analysis suggested butein and arachidonic fasudil as preferred treatment agents for subtype 1 and subtype 2, respectively. Finally, through Cellchat and correlation analysis, we identified PRSS3-F2R as potentially promoting the expression of hub genes in the psoriasis group, thereby enhancing keratinocyte-fibroblast interaction, ultimately driving psoriasis occurrence and progression. Our study identifies S100A7, SERPINB13, and PLBD1 as potential diagnostic biomarkers, offering promising prospects for more precisely tailored psoriatic immunotherapy designs.

Oral biofilm: Systemic and psychiatric implications

The oral cavity, being an excellent residence for a plethora of microbes, forms biofilm in various compartments. Acting as a preferable habitat with rich nutrients and other facilities, it hosts an array of bacteria, along with members of fungi, archaea, protozoa, and viruses that naturally or accidentally reside in the oral cavity. The dysbiosis of oral microbiota induces diseases and disorders in various physiological systems, including cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, excretory, reproductive, immune, and neurological systems, leading to various diseases and even cancer. Neurological and other disorders contribute to several psychiatric ailments. Hence, oral ill health not only leads to diseases such as periodontitis and tooth loss but might also result in unpredictable diseases, including carcinogenesis. Oral problems also lead to cognitive dysfunction, dementia, and other psychosocial embarrassments. The induction of these deadly diseases might be predicted by analyzing the oral microbial composition; therefore, the overabundance of microbes such as Porphyromonas gingivalis and Fusobacterium in the oral microbiome might be used as the bioindicator of various diseases, proving the unequivocal role of oral biofilm in the onset of various systemic and psychiatric ailments.

Factors influencing the need and willingness for presbyopic correction: a cross sectional study from south India

Presbyopia is an age-related physiological phenomenon in which eye gradually losses its ability to accommodate. It is one of the leading causes of visual impairment worldwide, especially in adults above the age of 40. If uncorrected, it can significantly impair a patient's quality of life. This study aims to evaluate the factors which affects patient’s need and willingness to accept presbyopic correction. This cross-sectional analytical study was carried out in a semi urban tertiary care hospital from Jan 2021 to June 2022 among patients aged 40 and above who presented to Outpatient department (OPD). Demographic details, medical history, presenting ocular complaints pertaining to presbyopia, spectacle use and decision regarding using near vision correction were noted. Ocular examination included refraction and ocular biometry. Factors that may have influenced complaints of presbyopia or willingness to accept presbyopic correction were analysed. Three hundred and forty two patients with a mean age of 48.55 ± 6.68 years were included. Of these, 262 (76.61%) patients presented with chief complaints related to presbyopia. Those with higher educational qualification (p = 0.031), hypermetropia (p = 0.021), shallower AC depth (p = 0.028) and on medications for systemic ailments (p = 0.01), were more likely to present with chief complaints attributable to presbyopia. Among them, those with higher educational qualifications (p = 0.02) and skilled workers were more likely to accept near vision glasses (p = 0.02), while those with lower Hb (p = 0.01) and myopia (p = 0.01) were less likely to accept correction for presbyopia. Among the 80 patients without chief complaints related to presbyopia, 35 (43.75%) were not willing to accept near vision glasses. Those with higher BMI (p = 0.04) and hypermetropes (p = 0.05) were more willing to accept presbyopic correction. Presbyopia constitutes a significant reason for patients above the age of 40 visiting eye care facility. Multiple socio-economic, systemic and ocular factors influenced both the chief complaints related to presbyopia and willingness to accept presbyopic correction.

Vitronectin and Fetuin-A: Newfangled Glycoproteins in Periodontits and Coronary Artery Diseases: A Narrative Review

Periodontitis, an intricate inflammatory condition impacting oral support structures, is increasingly recognized as a potential contributor to systemic ailments, notably cardiovascular diseases. Its pathophysiology involves the release of inflammatory molecules like cytokines and chemokines, exacerbating conditions like atherosclerosis. Within this complex web of inflammation, glycoproteins like vitronectin and fetuin-A have emerged as pivotal players, with vitronectin's multifunctional roles in cellular processes and fetuin-A's influence on metabolic pathways. Understanding their involvement in periodontitis and cardiovascular disorders offers promise in leveraging them as diagnostic biomarkers, potentially enhancing disease management and prevention.