"Quality of life is impaired in children with chronic pancreatitis: A multicenter study".

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The impact of chronic pancreatitis (CP) on quality of life (QOL) of children is not well established. Our objective was to evaluate the QOL, identify contributing factors, and determine the prevalence of anxiety and depression in children with CP in India. METHODS: Children (8-18y old) with CP were prospectively enrolled across three pediatric gastroenterology centres in India. QOL was assessed using the pediatric QOL inventory (PedsQL 4.0) scale, administered to both children and their parents. Anxiety and depression was studied using the Revised Children's Anxiety and Depression Scale (RCADS 25). Contributing factors were identified using binary logistic regression analysis. The data was compared against published QOL data in healthy Indian children. RESULTS: 121 children with CP (boys-57.9 %, age at QOL-14 ± 3.2years) were enrolled. A majority (82.7 %) had pain and advanced disease (Cambridge grade IV- 63.6 %). Children with CP had poorer QOL compared to controls (total score 74.6 ± 16 vs. 87.5 ± 11.1, p < 0.0001). QOL scores were similar across centres. Older children were similar to younger ones, except for a poorer emotional QOL. Taking QOL < -2 standard deviation (SD) of controls, ∼35 % had poor physical (50.9 ± 11.9) and 20 % had poor psychosocial (PS) QOL score (52.1 ± 7.2). On analysis, presence of pain and lower socio-economic status (SES) adversely affected both physical and PS-QOL. Additionally, girls had poorer PS-QOL than boys (Odds ratio 3.1, 95%CI:1.23-7.31). Anxiety and depression were uncommon (2,1.6 %). CONCLUSIONS: Patients with CP had impaired physical and psycho-social QOL. Presence of pain and lower SES adversely affected QOL. Psychiatric comorbidities were uncommon.

Budd-Chiari syndrome in children: Radiological intervention and role of shear wave elastography in monitoring response.

OBJECTIVES: Radiological intervention (RI) is the preferred treatment in children with Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS). We studied the comparative long-term outcome of BCS children, with and without RI and utility of liver and splenic stiffness measurement (LSM, SSM) by 2-dimensional shear wave elastography (2D-SWE) in assessing response. METHODS: Sixty children (40 boys, median age 10.5 [6.5-15.25] years) with BCS (29 newly diagnosed, 31 follow-up) were evaluated. LSM and SSM by 2D-SWE and vascular patency were monitored pre- and postprocedure (≥ 6 months postprocedure) in those undergoing RI. Medical therapy without anticoagulation and monitoring was done in subjects without RI. The RI and no-RI groups were compared. RESULTS: Ascites (54,90%), hepatomegaly (56,93%) and prominent abdominal-veins (42,70%), were the commonest features. The majority (46,78%) had isolated hepatic vein block. 44 (73%) cases underwent RI, while 16 (27%) were managed conservatively. Both groups were similar at baseline. Post-RI subjects showed significant improvement in clinical findings, liver functions and portal hypertension. LSM [33 (32-34.5) to 19.2 (18-20.67) kPa] and SSM [54.5 (52.3-57.6) to 28.9 (27.6-30.25) kPa] showed a significant decline from baseline value over a follow-up of 12 (6-13) months. Gradual reduction occurred in the LSM and SSM over 1-5 years, with near-normal LSM [10.2 (9.2-11.5) kPa] and SSM [22.3 (20.5-24.3) kPa] values in patients (n-16) with > 5 years follow-up. Patients without RI showed worsening in LSM and SSM. Hepatopulmonary syndrome and hepatocellular carcinoma developed in 4 (8%) and 1 (1.7%) cases respectively. CONCLUSION: RI leads to clinical recovery and reduction with near normalization of LSM and SSM over long-term follow-up in children with BCS. 2D-SWE is a promising tool to monitor outcomes.

Outcomes following surgical clipping of re-ruptured previously untreated intracranial aneurysms.

Re-rupture of untreated intracranial aneurysm is a potentially life-threatening condition. Despite tremendous advances in the diagnosis and treatment of intracranial aneurysms, such events are not rare and continue to pose a management dilemma. In this study, we examined the clinical, radiological and treatment details of patients who underwent microsurgical clipping for re-rupture of previously untreated intracranial aneurysms. Re ruptures were categorized as early and late re ruptures (< or > 7 days of inter ictus interval respectively). Modified Rankin Score (mRS) was used for functional outcome assessment and logistic regression analysis was used to test the predictors of long-term outcome. Re-ruptured intracranial aneurysms comprised 5% (n = 32/637) of the aneurysm clippings done at our center in this time span. The mean mRS score at discharge and at last follow-up were 3 and 3.04 respectively. Twenty-four (75%) patients were alive at a mean follow-up of 36 months. Early re-ruptures were associated with worse mean mRS scores at discharge (3.9 vs 2.5, p = 0.03) including the perioperative deaths (n = 4, 12.5%). The functional status at discharge and a poor preoperative clinical grade predicted a poor long-term outcome. Therefore, the long-term outcomes are primarily dependent on the short-term outcomes and to a lesser extent, the clinical grade at presentation. Those presenting with poor preoperative clinical grade, especially in the setting of an early re rupture, have a very poor prognosis and do not benefit from surgery.

Distinctive toxic repercussions of polystyrene nano plastic towards aquatic non target species Nitrobacter vulgaris, Scenedesmus sp and Daphnia magna.

The widespread application of plastics and its eventual degradation to micro-sized or nano-sized plastics has led to several environmental concerns. Moreover, nanoplastics can easily cascade through the food chain accumulating in the aquatic organisms. Thus, our study focussed on investigating the hazardous impact of nano-sized plastics on aquatic species including Nitrobacter vulgaris, Scenedesmus sp, and Daphnia magna. Various concentrations of polystyrene nanoplastics ranging from 0.01 mg/L to 100 mg/L were tested against Nitrobacter vulgaris, Scenedesmus sp, and Daphnia magna. The minimum inhibitory concentration of polystyrene nanoplastics in Nitrobacter vulgaris was found to be 25 mg/L, and in Daphnia magna, the median lethal concentration 50 was observed to be 64.02 mg/L. Exposure of Scenedesmus sp with increasing nanoplastic concentrations showed a significant decrease in total protein (p < 0.001), and chlorophyll content (p < 0.01), whereas the lipid peroxidation increased (p < 0.001) significantly. Similarly, Nitrobacter vulgaris and Daphnia magna showed a significant decrease in catalase activity (p < 0.001) and an increase in lipid peroxidation levels (p < 0.01). Concomitant with lipid peroxidation results, decreased superoxide dismutase levels (p < 0.01) and protein concentrations (p < 0.01) were observed in Daphnia magna. Besides, the increasing concentration of polystyrene nanoplastics displayed an elevated mortality rate in Scenedesmus sp (p < 0.001) and Nitrobacter vulgaris (p < 0.01). Further, scanning electron microscopy analysis substantiated the morphological alterations in Nitrobacter vulgaris and Scenedesmus sp on exposure to polystyrene nanoplastics.

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation in new daily persistent headache patients: a single arm open label study.

BACKGROUND: New daily persistent headache (NDPH) is a continuous, unremitting headache from onset that yields suboptimal results with traditional medicines. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has emerged as a promising non-invasive treatment for other headache disorders, such as migraine, and neuromodulation has not been well-studied in NDPH. The objective of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of rTMS in reducing the frequency and severity of headaches, and associated anxiety and depressive symptoms in NDPH patients. METHODS: This was an open label prospective, single arm, interventional pilot study conducted between October 2022 and September 2023. All eligible participants received 10 Hz rTMS (600 pulses, 10 trains), delivered to the left prefrontal cortex for three consecutive days. The post-rTMS headache severity was recorded weekly for four weeks and headache free days/functional disability, PHQ-9, and GAD-7 scores at the end of four weeks and compared with pre-rTMS parameters. The primary outcome was defined by ≥ 50% reduction in headache severity on Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score, decrease in headache days from the baseline and secondary outcome was ≥ 6 point reduction in HIT-6 score at 4 weeks. RESULTS: Fifty NDPH patients (mean [SD] age, 35.06 [13.91] years; 31 females [62%]) participated in this study. Thirty-five patients (70%) reported ≥ 50% improvement in pain severity (p-value < 0.001), with a mean reduction of 10.84 (4.88) headache days per 28 days from a baseline of 28 headache days (p-value < 0.001). Thirty-eight patients (76%) reported a ≥ 6 point's reduction in HIT score at 4 weeks. Maximum improvement in the above parameters was observed in NDPH patients with chronic migraine. Two patients reported intolerance to the sound of the rTMS. The median (IQR) PHQ-9 and GAD-7 scores reduced from 11.5(3.75,20) to 7(2,15) (p-value < 0.001) and 10(3,14) to 5.5(0,9) (p-value < 0.001) respectively. CONCLUSION: rTMS was well tolerated and effective in reducing pain severity, headache days and headache related disability, depressive and anxiety symptoms. TRIAL REGISTRATION: CTRI/2023/05/053247.

Role of Gabapentin in Traumatic Brain Injury: A Prospective Comparative Study.

Background: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major cause of mortality among young individuals, accounting for 65% of deaths in road traffic accidents. Paroxysmal sympathetic hyperactivity (PSH) is a common syndrome associated with TBI. This study represents the first prospective investigation aimed at assessing the impact of gabapentin on TBI patients, focusing on the prevention of secondary brain injury and brain edema while enhancing the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS). Materials and methods: The study was conducted from September 2019 to July 2021 after receiving ethical committee approval. It included adult ICU patients (≥18 years) with moderate and severe GCS. Patients below 18 years, death within 48 hours, non-consenting, pregnant females, and individuals allergic to gabapentin were excluded from the study. Patients were randomly allocated in two groups: study group received 300 mg of gabapentin orally twice daily and control group received multivitamin tablets twice daily. The treatment period spanned 2 weeks. Follow-up occurred in the ICU and continued for up to 3 months post-discharge, including telephonic conversations. Results: About 60 patients were involved for analysis. Significant differences were found in GCS change from admission to discharge, Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS) at 30 and 90 days, PSH episodes, and sedation bolus per day. Glasgow Coma Scale change was 53% in the study group compared with 25% in the control group (p = 0.009). Mortality was significantly lower in the study group. Glasgow Outcome Scale change between 30 and 90 days showed a 25% improvement in cases and no change in controls (p = 0.001). Conclusion: This pioneering study underscores the potential of gabapentin in managing traumatic brain injuries. How to cite this article: Singh R, Ambasta S, Bais PS, Azim A, Kumar S, Upreti B, et al. Role of Gabapentin in Traumatic Brain Injury: A Prospective Comparative Study. Indian J Crit Care Med 2024;28(2):120-125.

Mammography and Digital Breast Tomosynthesis in Granulomatous and Nongranulomatous Mastitis.

INTRODUCTION: Digital Mammography (DM) is extensively used for breast imaging however, lesion visibility is often limited by overlapping tissues, which affects lesion characterization. Digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) reduces the effect of overlapping tissues and helps in revealing obscured findings. We aimed to describe the mammographic findings in granulomatous and non-granulomatous mastitis and assess the utility of adjunctive DBT in lesion characterization. MATERIALS AND METHODS: DM and DBT images of histo-pathologically diagnosed cases of granulomatous (GM) and non-granulomatous mastitis (NGM) were reviewed according to the BI-RADS lexicon. Presence of contiguous/ interconnected lesions, tubular densities, interspersed hypodensities/fat densities within the involved areas were also assessed. The perceived utility of adjunct DBT was scored from 0-2. RESULTS: Of 33 reviewed patients (24 GM, 9 NGM; median age 39 years, range 24-78); 13/33 (39.4%) were under 35 years of age. DBT detected masses in 24/33 (72.7%), whereas only 15/33 (45.4%) were visible on DM alone. Contiguous or inter-connected lesions were found in 10/33 (30.3%) cases. Tubular extensions were seen in 14 cases and interspersed hypodensities in 15. None of the enlarged lymph nodes had irregular shape or indistinct margins or loss of fatty hilum. DBT was able to categorize more lesions as BIRADS 4a or below, as compared to DM alone. CONCLUSIONS: Mammographic presence of multiple contiguous iso-dense masses, reniform contour of axillary lymph nodes with preserved fatty hilum despite a large area of breast involvement favour a benign etiology; especially if DBT reveals tubular extensions or lesions with inhomogenous low density areas within.

Efficacy and Predictors of Pain Response to Combined Antioxidants in Children with Chronic Pancreatitis.

BACKGROUND: Pain is a major problem in 90% of patients with chronic pancreatitis (CP). Studies evaluating response to antioxidants (AO) are conflicting and no pediatric studies are available. AIMS: To evaluate markers of oxidative stress (OS), and efficacy and predictors of response to AO in improving pain in children with CP. METHODS: Antioxidants were given to CP children for 6 months. Subjects were assessed at baseline and post-therapy for pain and markers of OS [serum thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), superoxide dismutase (S-SOD)] and antioxidant levels [vitamin C, selenium, total antioxidant capacity-ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP)]. Matched healthy controls were assessed for OS and antioxidant levels. Good response was defined as ≥ 50% reduction in number of painful days/month. RESULTS: 48 CP children (25 boys, age 13 years) and 14 controls were enrolled. 38/48 cases completed 6 months of therapy. CP cases had higher OS [TBARS (7.8 vs 5.2 nmol/mL; p < 0.001)] and lower antioxidant levels [FRAP (231 vs. 381.3 µmol/L; p = 0.003), vitamin C (0.646 vs. 0.780 mg/dL; p < 0.001)] than controls. Significant reduction in TBARS and S-SOD and increase in FRAP, vitamin C, and selenium occurred after 6 months. 10.5% cases had minor side effects. 26(68%) cases had a good response, with 9(24%) becoming pain-free. Subjects with severe ductal changes had lower median BMI (- 0.73 vs 0.10; p = 0.04) and responded less often than those with mild changes (17/29 vs 9/9; p = 0.036). CONCLUSION: CP children have higher OS than healthy controls. Antioxidant therapy is safe. Pain response is seen in 68% cases, less often in patients with severe ductal changes.

Use of appropriate statistical tools in biomedical research: Current trend & status.

Background & objectives: Due to lack of appropriate statistical knowledge, published research articles contain various errors related to the design, analysis and interpretation of results in the area of biomedical research. If research contains statistical error, however, costly, it may be of no use and the purpose of the investigation gets defeated. Many biomedical research articles published in different peer reviewed journals may retain several statistical errors and flaws in them. This study aimed to examine the trend and status of application of statistics in biomedical research articles. Study design, sample size estimation and statistical measures are crucial components of a study. These points were evaluated in published original research articles to understand the use or misuse of statistical tools. Methods: Three hundred original research articles from the latest issues of selected 37 journals were reviewed. These journals were from the five internationally recognized publication groups (CLINICAL KEY, BMJ Group, WILEY, CAMBRIDGE and OXFORD) accessible through the online library of SGPGI, Lucknow, India. Results: Among articles assessed under present investigation, 85.3 per cent (n=256) were observational, and 14.7 per cent (n=44) were interventional studies. In 93 per cent (n=279) of research articles, sample size estimation was not reproducible. The simple random sampling was encountered rarely in biomedical studies even though none of the articles was adjusted by design effect and, only five articles had used randomized test. The testing of assumption of normality was mentioned in only four studies before applying parametric tests. Interpretation & conclusions: In order to present biomedical research results with reliable and precise estimates based on data, the role of engaging statistical experts need to be appreciated. Journals must have standard rules for reporting study design, sample size and data analysis tools. Careful attention is needed while applying any statistical procedure as, it will not only help readers to trust in the published articles, but also rely on the inferences the published articles draw.

Utility of ultrasound Angio-PLUS imaging for detecting blood flow in breast masses and comparison with color Doppler for differentiating benign from malignant masses.

BACKGROUND: Tumor neo-angiogenesis plays an important role in the development and growth of breast cancers, but its detection by imaging is challenging. A novel microvascular imaging (MVI) technique, Angio-PLUS, promises to overcome the limitations of color Doppler (CD) in detecting low-velocity flow and small diameter vessels. PURPOSE: To determine the utility of the Angio-PLUS technique for detecting blood flow in breast masses and compare it with CD for differentiating benign from malignant masses. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 79 consecutive women with breast masses were prospectively evaluated using CD and Angio-PLUS techniques, and biopsied as per BI-RADS recommendations. Vascular imaging scores were assigned using three factors (number, morphology, and distribution) and vascular patterns were divided into five groups: internal-dot-spot, external-dot-spot, marginal, radial, and mesh patterns. The independent samples t-test, Mann-Whitney U test, Wilcoxon signed rank test, or Fisher's exact test were used to compare the two groups as appropriate. Area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC) methods were used to assess diagnostic accuracy. RESULTS: Vascular scores were significantly higher on Angio-PLUS than CD (median=11, [IQR=9-13] vs. 5 [IQR=3-9], P < 0.001). Malignant masses had higher vascular scores than benign masses on Angio-PLUS (P < 0.001). AUC was 80% (95% CI=70.3-89.7; P < 0.001) for Angio-PLUS and 51.9% for CD. Using Angio-PLUS at a cutoff value of ≥9.5, sensitivity was 80% and specificity was 66.7%. Vascular pattern descriptors on AP showed good correlation with histopathological results (PPV mesh 95.5%, radial 96.9%, and NPV of marginal orientation 90.5%). CONCLUSION: Angio-PLUS was more sensitive in detecting vascularity and superior in differentiating benign from malignant masses compared to CD. Vascular pattern descriptors on Angio-PLUS were useful.

Toxicity of benzyl paraben on aquatic as well as terrestrial life.

Parabens are derivatives of alkyl esters of p-hydroxybenzoic acid and come in different classes. These compounds are primarily used as antimicrobial preservative agents in many commercial products, including cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. Accordingly, Benzyl paraben (BeP) is known to be a potential endocrine disruptor. The aim of this study was to determine the toxicity of benzyl paraben (BeP) on aquatic and terrestrial organisms, specifically Scenedesmus sp., Moina macrocopa, and Eisenia fetida. All the organisms were treated with different concentrations of BeP (0.025 mg/L and 1000 mg/L), and LC25, LC50, and LC90 values were used to measure the toxicity levels. Results showed the LC values of BeP for M. macrocopa (3.3 mg/L, 4.7 mg/L, 7.3 mg/L) and E. fetida (173.2 mg/L, 479.8 mg/L, 1062 mg/L), respectively. Toxicity tests on green algae (Scenedesmus sp.) were conducted, the green algae were subjected to various BeP concentration. At 50 mg/L of BeP, cell viability was reduced to 56.2% and the MTT (3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5 diphenyl tetrazolium bromide) assay indicated 35.4% viable cells. The chlorophyll value and the biochemical parameters of the algal cells were corroborative with the cell viability test. Lethal indices (LC50) for M. macrocopa and E. fetida were evaluated for their toxicity on biochemical properties and were found to be catalase (0.111 mg/L, 0.5 mg/L), lipid peroxidation (0.072 mg/L, 0.056 mg/L), and total protein (0.309 mg/L, 0.314 mg/L), respectively. Overall, this study demonstrated the toxic impact of BeP on non-target aquatic as well as terrestrial species.

Insular glioblastoma: surgical challenges, survival outcomes and prognostic factors.

BACKGROUND: Insular gliomas are unique, challenging and evoke a lot of interest amongst neurosurgeons. Publications on insular glioma generally focus on the surgical intricacies and extent of resection pertaining to the low-grade gliomas. Insular glioblastomas (iGBM) have not been analysed separately before. METHODS: Histologically proven WHO grade IV gliomas involving the insula over a 9-year period were studied. Their clinical presentation, radiological features, surgical findings and survival outcomes were assessed. Statistical methods were used to determine the favourable predictors of survival. RESULTS: Out of 27 patients (M:F = 2.9:1), 18 (66%) patients had a tumour extension beyond the insula, 10 (37%) of whom had basal ganglia involvement. Total, near total and subtotal excisions were performed in 7 (26%), 9 (33%) and 11 (40.7%) patients, respectively. Twenty-three patients had glioblastoma, while four had gliosarcoma. IDH mutation was negative in six of the seven patients where it was done. Median overall survival was 5 months. Multivariate analysis showed that a female gender (p = 0.013), seizures in the preoperative period (p = 0.048) and completion of adjuvant therapy (p = 0.003) were associated with a longer survival. CONCLUSION: Insular glioblastomas have a poor prognosis. Insular location and certain tumour characteristics often limit the extent of resection of iGBMs. Moreover, postoperative complications sometimes negate the advantages of a radical resection. A female gender, presentation with seizures and completion of adjuvant chemoradiotherapy appear to be good prognostic factors.

Comparing Estimated and Measured Glomerular Filtration Rate in Children with Posterior Urethral Valve.

Background: Posterior urethral valve (PUV) is obstructive uropathy that may lead to chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in children. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) measurement remains the gold standard for renal function measurement. However, due to its less availability and cumbersome, it is not commonly used, and GFR is estimated utilizing various endogenous filtration markers. Objective: This study includes pediatric patients with PUV. We aimed to compare the measured GFR (mGFR) with various creatinine-based estimated GFR methods (eGFR). Materials and Methods: A single-center retrospective study included 62 treated cases of PUV, postvalve fulguration. The mGFR measured by 99mTc-diethylenetriaminepentaacetate in vitro method and compared with eight eGFR (Schwartz, Cockcroft-Gault [CG], Counahan-Barratt [CB], CKD Epidemiology Collaboration [CKD-EPI], full-age spectrum [FAS] age, FAS height (FAS Ht), Schwartz-Lyon [SL], and Ht independent). Patients were subdivided into different CKD grades and compared with various eGFR. Discussion: PUV is a common cause of CKD in children and needs special consideration as there is growth retardation associated with it. It decreases creatinine production and thus fallacies in eGFR measurement. There is a requisite to identify and closely monitor the subset of patients with baseline decreased renal function and therefore at risk of developing ESRD. Results: A total of 62 patients were included. Mean age and serum creatinine levels were 8.02 ± 5.53 years and 1.15 ± 0.95 mg/dl (range: 0.4-4.5), respectively. The mean mGFR was 61.6 ± 31.80 mL/min/1.73 m2 and a positive variable correlation was 0.46-0.77 between mGFR and eGFR. Based on mGFR, there were 14 (22.6%), 21 (33.8%), 13 (20.9%), 9 (14.5%), and 5 (8.1%) patients in Grades I-V, respectively. The correct classification of the CKD grades was noted in 25 (40.3%), 16 (25.8%), 32 (51.6%), 16 (25.8%), 25 (40.3%), 27 (43.5%), 26 (41.9%), and 28 (45.2%) patients by Schwartz, CG, CB, CKD-EPI, FAS age, FAS Ht, SL, and Ht-independent equation. The eGFR overestimates GFR at the lower level and underestimates at higher levels. Conclusion: Our results confirm the considerable limitations of various creatinine-based clearance methods for estimating actual GFR. The creatinine clearance-based eGFR should not replace the measurement of the GFR. An initial measure of the mGFR followed by serial follow-up with the eGFR equation may be done. The most accurate eGFR equations are CB for Grade II, SL or Ht independent for Grade III, FAS age for Grade IV, and SL for Grade V CKD.

Development of RNA-Based Assay for Rapid Detection of SARS-CoV-2 in Clinical Samples.

INTRODUCTION: The ongoing spread of pandemic coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is of growing concern. Rapid diagnosis and management of SARS-CoV-2 are crucial for controlling the outbreak in the community. Here, we report the development of a first rapid-colorimetric assay capable of detecting SARS-CoV-2 in the human nasopharyngeal RNA sample in less than 30 min. METHOD: We utilized a nanomaterial-based optical sensing platform to detect RNA-dependent RNA polymerase gene of SARS-CoV-2, where the formation of oligo probe-target hybrid led to salt-induced aggregation and change in gold-colloid color from pink to blue visibility range. Accordingly, we found a change in colloid color from pink to blue in assay containing nasopharyngeal RNA sample from the subject with clinically diagnosed COVID-19. The colloid retained pink color when the test includes samples from COVID-19 negative subjects or human papillomavirus-infected women. RESULTS: The results were validated using nasopharyngeal RNA samples from positive COVID-19 subjects (n = 136). Using real-time polymerase chain reaction as gold standard, the assay was found to have 85.29% sensitivity and 94.12% specificity. The optimized method has detection limit as little as 0.5 ng of SARS-CoV-2 RNA. CONCLUSION: We found that the developed assay rapidly detects SARS-CoV-2 RNA in clinical samples in a cost-effective manner and would be useful in pandemic management by facilitating mass screening.

Is new daily persistent headache a fallout of somatization? An observational study.

OBJECTIVE: New daily persistent headache (NDPH) is characterized by daily, persistent headache with clearly remembered onset, preceding events or triggers and treatment refractoriness of headache. The pathophysiology of NDPH is still unresolved. NDPH has been associated with somatoform disorder (DSM 4 TR). Somatization is characterized by vivid memory, disproportionate and persistent thought about symptoms that may explain many characteristics of NDPH. However, tendency towards somatization has not been studied in NDPH patients. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, we evaluated somatization in NDPH, chronic migraine (CM), and chronic tension type headache (CTTH) by comparing the prevalence of somatic symptom disorder (SSD, DSM-5). We evaluated the past tendencies to somatization by comparing various characteristics of past somatic symptoms (number, duration, type, clearly remembered onset, etc.) between NDPH, CM, and CTTH. RESULTS: Forty-seven patients each of NDPH and CTTH and 46 patients of CM were evaluated. Criteria for SSD was fulfilled by 85.1% of NDPH and CTTH patients and only 45.7% of CM. Past history of somatic symptoms was seen in 70% patients with NDPH, 15.2% CM, and 23.4% CTTH (p<0.001). Median number of past somatic symptoms was higher in NDPH. All NDPH patients clearly remembered the onset of at least one past somatic symptom. None of CM and CTTH patients remembered the onset of past somatic symptoms. CONCLUSION: NDPH patients displayed significant past history of somatization. Continuation of past tendencies to manifest as NDPH suggests that NDPH may be an epiphenomenon of somatization.

Association of hyperglycaemia at-admission & diabetes mellitus with 28 day mortality in patients admitted with moderate-severe SARS-CoV-2 infection: A retrospective study.

Background & objectives: The association between hyperglycaemia at admission, diabetes mellitus (DM) status and mortality in hospitalized SARS-CoV-2 infected patients is not clear. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between DM, at-admission hyperglycaemia and 28 day mortality in patients admitted with moderate-severe SARS-CoV-2 infection requiring intensive care. Methods: All consecutive moderate-to-severe patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection admitted to the intensive care units (ICUs) over six months were enrolled in this single-centre, retrospective study. The predicators for 28 day mortality were analysed from the independent variables including DM status and hyperglycaemia at-admission. Results: Four hundred and fifty two patients with SARS-CoV-2 were admitted to the ICU, with a mean age of 58.5±13.4 yr, 78.5 per cent being male, HbA1c of 7.2 per cent (6.3-8.8) and 63.7 per cent having DM. Overall, 28 day mortality was 48.9 per cent. In univariate analysis, mortality in diabetes patients was comparable with non-diabetes (47.9 vs. 50.6%, P=0.58), while it was significantly higher in hyperglycaemic group (60.4 vs. 35.8%, P<0.001). In multivariate Cox regression analysis, after adjusting for age, sex and comorbidities, hyperglycaemia at-admission was an independent risk factor of mortality [hazard ratio (HR) 1.45, 95% confidence interval (CI) (1.06-1.99), P<0.05]. Interpretation & conclusions: This study showed that the presence of hyperglycaemia at-admission in critically ill SARS-CoV-2 patients was an independent predictor of 28 day mortality. However, the findings may be susceptible to unmeasured confounding, and more research from prospective studies is required.

New insights into development and mortality of COVID-19-associated pulmonary aspergillosis in a homogenous cohort of 1161 intensive care patients.

BACKGROUND: COVID-19-associated pulmonary aspergillosis (CAPA) has been widely reported but homogenous large cohort studies are needed to gain real-world insights about the disease. METHODS: We collected clinical and laboratory data of 1161 patients hospitalised at our Institute from March 2020 to August 2021, defined their CAPA pathology, and analysed the data of CAPA/non-CAPA and deceased/survived CAPA patients using univariable and multivariable models. RESULTS: The overall prevalence and mortality of CAPA in our homogenous cohort of 1161 patients were 6.4% and 47.3%, respectively. The mortality of CAPA was higher than that of non-CAPA patients (hazard ratio: 1.8 [95% confidence interval: 1.1-2.8]). Diabetes (odds ratio [OR] 1.92 [1.15-3.21]); persistent fever (2.54 [1.17-5.53]); hemoptysis (7.91 [4.45-14.06]); and lung lesions of cavitation (8.78 [2.27-34.03]), consolidation (9.06 [2.03-40.39]), and nodules (8.26 [2.39-28.58]) were associated with development of CAPA by multivariable analysis. Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) (2.68 [1.09-6.55]), a high computed tomography score index (OR 1.18 [1.08-1.29]; p < .001), and pulse glucocorticoid treatment (HR 4.0 [1.3-9.2]) were associated with mortality of the disease. Whereas neutrophilic leukocytosis (development: 1.09 [1.03-1.15] and mortality: 1.17 [1.08-1.28]) and lymphopenia (development: 0.68 [0.51-0.91] and mortality: 0.40 [0.20-0.83]) were associated with the development as well as mortality of CAPA. CONCLUSION: We observed a low but likely underestimated prevalence of CAPA in our study. CAPA is a disease with high mortality and diabetes is a significant factor for its development while ARDS and pulse glucocorticoid treatment are significant factors for its mortality. Cellular immune dysregulation may have a central role in CAPA from its development to mortality.

Diagnostic yield and safety of percutaneous CT-guided biopsy of retroperitoneal lesions and analysis of imaging features.

BACKGROUND: Computed tomography (CT)-guided biopsy is emerging as a preferred method for obtaining tissue samples from retroperitoneal lesions due to clear visualization of needle and vessels. PURPOSE: To assess diagnostic yield and safety of CT-guided biopsy of retroperitoneal lesions and compare CT findings in different disease categories. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This retrospective analytical study included 86 patients with retroperitoneal lesions who underwent CT-guided biopsy from December 2010 to March 2020. All procedures were performed with co-axial technique and multiple cores were obtained and subjected to histopathology. Additional tests like immunohistochemistry or microbiological analysis were done depending on clinical suspicion. Diagnostic yield calculation and comparison of imaging findings was done by one-way ANOVA, chi-square, and Fisher's exact tests. RESULTS: CT-guided biopsy was technically successful in all cases with a diagnostic yield of 91.9%. Minor complications in the form of small hematomas were seen in two patients. Major disease categories on final diagnosis were lymphoma, tuberculosis, and metastases. A variety of malignant and benign soft-tissue neoplasms were also noted less commonly. With help of immunohistochemistry, lymphoma subtype was established in 88.8% of cases. Addition of microbiological tests like the GeneXpert assay helped in the diagnosis of tuberculosis in some cases. A mass-like appearance and vascular encasement was common in metastatic group and lymphoma. CONCLUSION: Percutaneous CT-guided biopsy is a safe method for the sampling of retroperitoneal lesions with high diagnostic yield. Imaging findings are mostly overlapping; however, some features are more common in a particular disease condition.

Algae bioprocess to deal with cosmetic chemical pollutants in natural ecosystems: A comprehensive review.

Elevated demand and extensive exploitation of cosmetics in day-to-day life have hiked up its industrial productions worldwide. Organic and inorganic chemicals like parabens, phthalates, sulfates, and so forth are being applied as constituents towards the formulations, which tend to be the mainspring ecological complication due to their enduring nature and accumulation properties in various sections of the ecosystem. These cosmetic chemicals get accrued into the terrestrial and aquatic systems on account of various anthropogenic activities involving agricultural runoff, industrial discharge, and domestic effluents. Recently, the use of microbes for remediating persistent cosmetic chemicals has gained immense interest. Among different forms of the microbial community being applied as an environmental beneficiary, algae play a vital role in both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems by their biologically beneficial metabolites and molecules, resulting in the biobenign and efficacious consequences. The use of various bacterial, fungal, and higher plant species has been studied intensely for their bioremediation elements. The bioremediating property of the algal cells through biosorption, bioassimilation, biotransformation, and biodegradation has made it favorable for the removal of persistent and toxic pollutants from the environment. However, the research investigation concerned with the bioremediation potential of the algal kingdom is limited. This review summarizes and provides updated and comprehensive insights into the potential remediation capabilities of algal species against ecologically hazardous pollutants concerning cosmetic chemicals.

Analysis of Causes of Hepatic Dysfunction in Obstetric Patients in India: A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND: Epidemiology of liver disease in obstetric patients shows geographical variation depending upon the prevalence of preeclampsia, viral hepatitis, and tropical vector-borne diseases like malaria, leptospirosis, etc. We undertook the current systematic review to analyze the causes of hepatic dysfunction in obstetric patients in India and identify the gaps in the literature and reporting. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We did a systematic review of studies reporting the causes of hepatic dysfunction in obstetric patients in India. A methodological quality assessment was done using a five-point questionnaire. RESULTS: A total of 21 studies qualified for evaluation. The rate of hepatic dysfunction among obstetric patients in India ranged from 0.15 to 3.3% with a mean and median rate of 1.49 and 0.93%, respectively. Preeclampsia/HELLP (mean = 36.0%, median = 31.4%, range: 3.6-83.8%) and viral hepatitis (mean = 34.1%, median = 35.5%, range: 5.1-61.8%) were the commonest causes of hepatic dysfunction. Other causes were intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy, acute fatty liver of pregnancy, tropical fever (malaria, leptospirosis, dengue, scrub typhus), etc. Maternal mortality ranged from 1.4 to 40% (mean = 12.6%, median = 10.0%) and perinatal mortality was between 16.4 and 38.70% (mean = 31.75%, median = 35.5%). CONCLUSION: There is moderate quality evidence to show that preeclampsia/HELLP and viral hepatitis are the commonest causes of hepatic dysfunction in obstetric patients in India. HOW TO CITE THIS ARTICLE: Ahmed A, Saxena S, Pandey A, Mishra P, Azim A. Analysis of Causes of Hepatic Dysfunction in Obstetric Patients in India: A Systematic Review. Indian J Crit Care Med 2022;26(1):114-122.