Chronic arsenic poisoning: A sinister cause of peripheral neuropathy in a young couple

ABSTRACT

Arsenic compounds are colorless and odorless and toxicity can occur either acutely following ingestion of arsenicals with gastrointestinal disturbances or due to chronic exposure usually presenting with dermatologic lesions and peripheral neuropathy. We report a young couple who presented with signs and symptoms of painful sensorimotor peripheral neuropathy in a typical "stocking and glove" pattern. They had raised urinary arsenic levels with normal blood levels and thus, a diagnosis of chronic arsenic poisoning due to contaminated water intake was made after detecting elevated arsenic levels in their home water supply. Both patients underwent chelation therapy with dimercaprol for 14 days and reported subjective and objective improvement in symptoms with the reduction in urinary arsenic levels at the end of therapy.

Correlation of palatal anatomic characteristics with dermatoglyphic heterogeneity in different growth patterns

AIM AND OBJECTIVE

The study aimed to explore the correlation between dermatoglyphic patterns and quantitative palatal anatomic variables in individuals with different growth patterns.

MATERIALS AND METHOD

A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 126 healthy patients aged 17-25 years. Participants were divided into three groups based on growth patterns: average, vertical, and horizontal. Dermatoglyphic patterns were recorded using an optical fingerprint sensor, and palatal characteristics were measured using digital software. Palatal characteristics, including intercanine width, intermolar width, and palatal depth, were measured using digital software. The results were statistically analyzed.

RESULTS

Significant differences were observed in ridge counts among the three growth patterns. The average growth pattern showed lower ridge counts compared to the vertical and horizontal growth patterns. Dermatoglyphic patterns, such as double loops and tented arches, were significantly higher in the horizontal growth pattern. Weak correlations were found between certain dermatoglyphic patterns and palatal characteristics, with simple arch patterns showing a negative correlation with inter-canine width and symmetrical whorl patterns showing a positive correlation with palatal depth. Loop patterns, spiral patterns, double loop patterns, symmetrical whorl, and simple arch patterns were significant predictors of growth patterns.

CONCLUSION

This study revealed distinct dermatoglyphic patterns and ridge counts among individuals with different growth patterns. Weak correlations were observed between dermatoglyphic patterns and palatal characteristics. However, the predictive value of dermatoglyphics for skeletal malocclusion requires further investigation. Understanding the relationships between dermatoglyphic patterns and craniofacial growth can provide valuable insights into genetic and developmental factors affecting dental and orthodontic conditions.

The Association of Incidental Radiation Dose to the Heart Base with Overall Survival and Cardiac Events after Curative-intent Radiotherapy for Non-small Cell Lung Cancer: Results from the NI-HEART Study

AIMS

Cardiac disease is a dose-limiting toxicity in non-small cell lung cancer radiotherapy. The dose to the heart base has been associated with poor survival in multiple institutional and clinical trial datasets using unsupervised, voxel-based analysis. Validation has not been undertaken in a cohort with individual patient delineations of the cardiac base or for the endpoint of cardiac events. The purpose of this study was to assess the association of heart base radiation dose with overall survival and the risk of cardiac events with individual heart base contours.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients treated between 2015 and 2020 were reviewed for baseline patient, tumour and cardiac details and both cancer and cardiac outcomes as part of the NI-HEART study. Three cardiologists verified cardiac events including atrial fibrillation, heart failure and acute coronary syndrome. Cardiac substructure delineations were completed using a validated deep learning-based autosegmentation tool and a composite cardiac base structure was generated. Cox and Fine-Gray regressions were undertaken for the risk of death and cardiac events.

RESULTS

Of 478 eligible patients, most received 55 Gy/20 fractions (96%) without chemotherapy (58%), planned with intensity-modulated radiotherapy (71%). Pre-existing cardiovascular morbidity was common (78% two or more risk factors, 46% one or more established disease). The median follow-up was 21.1 months. Dichotomised at the median, a higher heart base Dmax was associated with poorer survival on Kaplan-Meier analysis (20.2 months versus 28.3 months; hazard ratio 1.40, 95% confidence interval 1.14-1.75, P = 0.0017) and statistical significance was retained in multivariate analyses. Furthermore, heart base Dmax was associated with pooled cardiac events in a multivariate analysis (hazard ratio 1.75, 95% confidence interval 1.03-2.97, P = 0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

Heart base Dmax was associated with the rate of death and cardiac events after adjusting for patient, tumour and cardiovascular factors in the NI-HEART study. This validates the findings from previous unsupervised analytical approaches. The heart base could be considered as a potential sub-organ at risk towards reducing radiation cardiotoxicity.

A potential biomarker of radiosensitivity in metastatic hormone sensitive prostate cancer patients treated with combination external beam radiotherapy and radium-223

PURPOSE

The ADRRAD trial reported the safety and feasibility of the combination of external beam radiotherapy and radium-223 in the treatment of de novo bone metastatic prostate. This study aimed to determine if any biomarkers predictive of response to these treatments could be identified.

EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN

30 patients with newly diagnosed bone metastatic hormone sensitive prostate cancer were recruited to the ADRRAD trial. Blood samples were taken pre-treatment, before cycles 2 to 6 of radium-223, and 8 weeks and 6 months after treatment. Mononuclear cells were isolated and DNA damage was assessed at all timepoints.

RESULTS

DNA damage was increased in all patients during treatment, with bigger increases in foci observed in patients who relapsed late compared to those who relapsed early. Increases in DNA damage during the radium-223 only cycles of treatment were specifically related to response in these patients. Analysis of hematology counts also showed bigger decreases in red blood cell and hemoglobin counts in patients who experienced later biochemical relapse.

CONCLUSIONS

While some patients responded to this combination treatment, others relapsed within one year of treatment initiation. This study identifies a biomarker based approach that may be useful in predicting which patients will respond to treatment, by monitoring both increases in DNA damage above baseline levels in circulating lymphocytes and decreases in red blood cell and hemoglobin counts during treatment.

25 The efficacy of pre-operative multidisciplinary meetings for surgical management of strabismus

Informal discussion regarding surgical management plans between strabismus surgeons is common but this limits potentially valuable multi-disciplinary input and learning opportunities. We evaluate the effectiveness of virtual multidisciplinary meetings to provide a platform for discussion of pre-operative strabismus surgical cases.Weekly virtual MS Teams meetings are held on Monday mornings for one hour, attended by the three paediatric consultants, paediatric fellow, all trainees on the paediatric firm and orthoptists. The meetings are recorded and available for reference to the content and for those not present.Presentations for upcoming surgery cases are prepared and presented by the fellow, with discussion from participants regarding examination findings and surgical options. Cases are anonymised to allow multicentre collaboration. The agreed management plan is documented in the patient's medical notes, and outcomes of challenging cases are discussed.The management plan is formalised during the MDT. Where required, additional tests are arranged. There are opportunities for all participants to constructively challenge decisions. Trainees of all levels are actively engaged by presenting, listening to the rationale behind surgical plans, with the opportunity to ask and respond to questions.Patients are informed that their case has been presented in the MDT to obtain multiple opinions, which gives them additional confidence. Orthoptists can see the impact of the measurements they provide, and how differing tests can change management plans.This MDT has been a positive change to our surgical strabismus patient pathway. Knowledge and teamwork have been strengthened using this innovative virtual discussion method.

Simulation CT Features and Radiation Cardiotoxicity in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

Radiation cardiotoxicity is a significant clinical dilemma in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) radiation therapy (RT). Baseline cardiovascular (CV) status may influence the risk of cardiotoxicity, and may be ascertainable from the appearance of the heart on simulation computed tomography (CT). We examined the association of CT features with incidental heart dose and risk of cardiac events in NSCLC.

MATERIALS/METHODS

Patients treated with curative-intent RT between 2015 and 2020 at a regional center were identified. Clinical notes were interrogated for baseline patient and CV health details, and follow-up CV events. Cardiac events were verified by a cardiologist. A deep learning-based auto-segmentation tool was applied, allowing extraction of a pre-specified list of volume parameters in a programming environment. CAC was graded as none, mild, moderate and severe in patients with a non-contrast scan. The craniocaudal relationship of the PTV and heart (Feng atlas) were annotated.

RESULTS

A total of 478 patients were included, with a median age of 70 and Charlson Index of 5. The median mean heart dose was 6.3 Gy (IQR 2.7-11.4). The median lung V20 was 20.0% (IQR 14.8-27.1). Cardiovascular risk factors were common, with most patients having 2 (39%) or 3 (31%). A history of previous cardiac events was common, including myocardial infarction (14%), arrhythmia (11%) or heart failure (9%). A total of 6.9% and 7.1% patients developed a new atrial arrhythmia (AA) or heart failure (HF) after completing RT. The volume metrics with the highest AUC for AA and HF events were the left atrium (LA) (AUC 0.67, p = 0.0002) and left ventricle:right ventricle (LV:RV) ratio (AUC 0.66, p = 0.0021). Kaplan-Meier analysis for cardiac events dichotomizing at the optimal cut-point for maximum sensitivity and specificity demonstrated significantly different rates for both AA (LA 109cc, HR 3.35, 95% CI 1.64-6.83, p = 0.0009) and HF (LV:RV ratio 1.61, HR 2.37, 95% CI 1.19-4.74, p = 0.0143). Only 2 patients with non-contrast scans developed a myocardial infarction, both had mild CAC. The incidence of pooled cardiac events was not significantly different between patients with no (n = 2/21, 9.5%), mild (n = 10/38, 26.3%), moderate (n = 8/53, 15.1%) and severe (n = 7/24, 29.2%) CAC (p = 0.3916). Where the inferior border of the PTV was above the superior border of the heart, mean heart dose was significantly lower than compared with overlap of levels (1.9 Gy v 9.7 Gy, p<0.0001), and this was true for 3DCRT (n = 139, p<0.001), IMRT (n = 94, p<0.001) and VMAT (n = 145, p<0.001) patients.

CONCLUSION

LA volume and LV:RV volume ratio are predictive for the development of AA and HF respectively. CAC grade did not differentiate patients by risk of cardiac events. Where the craniocaudal level of the PTV doesn't overlap with the level of the heart, the cardiac dose is likely to be very low. Several simulation CT features are associated with cardiac events following treatment for NSCLC and prospective evidence of cardiac risk could enable medical optimization prior to RT.

AN INCREASED RISK OF HORMONAL DISORDERS, PRIMARILY DIABETES, IN INDIVIDUALS WITH Β -THALASSEMIA MAJOR: A RETROSPECTIVE ANALYSIS

β-Thalassemia major is an inherited blood condition marked by a serious anemia and a lifetime need for blood transfusions. The effects of β-thalassemia major on endocrine health, notably the risk of diabetes, remain largely unstudied, despite the fact that its haematological components are established. The purpose of this systematic analysis was to examine the incidence of reduced metabolism of glucose in β--thalassemia major. The articles were under the inclusion requirements, after which the data was retrieved. The main outcome was determined to be every prevalence (P) of DM (diabetes mellitus) in β-thalassemia major. In order to examine the percentage of aberrant glucose metabolism (GM) with individuals among β-thalassemia major, the P with the 95% CI (Confidence Interval) was utilized. In this retrospective investigation, we looked at a cohort of people with β-thalassemia major diagnoses to determine the incidence and risk of hormonal diseases, particularly diabetes. A specialist thalassemia facility treated 315 individuals with β-thalassemia major, and their medical records were examined. Age, gender, age at which a main diagnosis of β-thalassemia was made, the length of transfusion treatment, and concomitant diseases were gathered as part of the demographic and clinical data. Our research, which included 17 studies and 1500 cases altogether, showed that with β -thalassemia major had a considerably greater frequency of diabetes than people in general. With a mean beginning age of 30 years, diabetes was identified in 28% of the research cohort's participants. The combined meta-analysis showed that each year had a rather stable level of DM P in β-thalassemia major. In people with major β-thalassemia, the P of impaired fasting glucose (IFG), DM, and impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) was 17.22% (95% CI: 8.44%-26.02%), (6.57 (95% CI: 5.31%- 7.79%) and 12.47 % (95% CI: 5.97%-18.95%), respectively. Our research suggests that people with β-thalassemia major have a high chance of acquiring diabetes, particularly if they get extended transfusion treatment. For prompt diagnosis and care, early detection of diabetes and other hormonal problems in this group is crucial. In β-thalassemia major, there is a high frequency of endocrine problems, including improper GM. To stop growth and endocrine issues, treatment and preventative measures can be required.

17 Development of a questionnaire to study fear and anxiety factors affecting patients and their families undergoing strabismus surgery

Patients and their Families undergoing Strabismus Surgery. The aim of this study was to develop a questionnaire to identify perioperative fear and anxiety factors affecting pediatric strabismus surgery patients.First, we reviewed the literature to determine precipitants of fears and anxieties experienced by pediatric patients. Subsequently, we developed a questionnaire for pediatric patients undergoing strabismus surgery. This was a two part questionnaire, consisting of a 16-piece section for patients and a 22-piece section for parents. Finally, we piloted this questionnaire to validate its clinical use.Common anxiety factors for children include pain, minor clinical procedures requiring needles, separation from parents and engaging with medical professionals. We used this information to develop a two part questionnaire for patients and parents. The questionnaire elicited positive and negative aspects of the patient journey, corroborated fears reported in the literature, and identified anxiety inducing factors specific to strabismus patients.There is a lack of evidence regarding fear and anxiety specific to pediatric ophthalmology surgeries. Strabismus surgery carries unique fear inducing factors. Interventions which may alleviate the stress of pediatric surgery, therefore greatly benefit patient experience and surgical outcomes, and should be considered in the care of pediatric patients. Patient educational material is known to provide a sense of control to patients, helping to alleviate such fear.Evidenced by the literature and the pilot questionnaire, there still exists anxiety inducing factors in pediatric surgery. Investigation into patient fears regarding pediatric strabismus surgery is needed to better understand how clinical staff can support patients perioperatively.

Patient-Level and Endpoint-Specific Clinico-Dosimetric Analysis of the Cardiac Base as a Mediator of Radiation Cardiotoxicity in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

Cardiac disease is a dose-limiting toxicity in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) radiation therapy. Radiation dose to the cardiac base is associated with poor overall survival in several clinical studies, but has not been validated in a non-dose escalated cohort, or with individual patient delineations. In this study we examined the impact of cardiac base dose on overall survival (OS) and cardiac events (CEs), and interrogated the relationships of the substructures comprising the heart base with OS and CEs.

MATERIALS/METHODS

Patients with stage I-III NSCLC treated with curative-intent radiation therapy between 2015 and 2020 at a regional cancer center were identified. Clinical notes were examined for baseline patient, tumor and cardiac details, and both cancer and cardiac outcomes. Three cardiologists verified CEs. Cardiac delineations were completed using a validated deep learning-based autosegmentation tool. Cox and Fine and Gray regressions were undertaken for the risk of death and CEs respectively, accounting for pre-specified evidence-based dose metrics and clinically relevant cardiac covariates.

RESULTS

Most patients received 55 Gy/20# (n = 461/478, 96%) without chemotherapy (58%), planned with VMAT (51%) or IMRT (20%). Pre-existing cardiovascular morbidity was common, with 78% having ≥2 risk factors, and 46% having >1 established cardiac disease. The median follow-up was 21.1 months. Dichotomized at the median, higher heart base Dmax was associated with poorer survival on Kaplan-Meier analysis (21.6 months (95% CI 19.3-24.9) versus 29.4 months (95% CI 21.6-36.6), p = 0.021), and remained significant when statistically compared in published multivariate models. In a multivariate analysis for pooled acute CEs, heart base Dmax was associated with CEs (HR 1.75, 95% CI 1.01-1.06, p = 0.04), but this was not the case for individual CEs. Using Fine and Gray models to account for the competing risk of death, left main coronary maximum dose was associated with atrial fibrillation (p = 0.024), proximal right coronary artery V15 (p = 0.023) and mean dose (p = 0.032), and the right atrium mean dose (p = 0.029) were associated with heart failure. No dose-volume metrics were significantly associated with acute coronary syndrome. None of the constituent base substructures dose were significantly associated with death.

CONCLUSION

Dose to the heart base was associated with increased mortality and an increased pooled cardiac event rate. Accounting for endpoint-specific clinical covariates, only select constituent substructures of the heart base were associated with CEs and no substructures were independently associated with survival. Together, these findings are suggestive of possible interplay between the constituent base substructures in their mediation of radiation cardiotoxicity.

Trends of surgical-care delivery during the COVID-19 pandemic: A multi-centre study in India (IndSurg Collaboration)

Context

The COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns adversely affected global healthcare services to varying extents. To accommodate its added burden, emergency services were affected along-with elective surgeries.

Aims

To quantify and analyze the trends of essential surgeries and bellwether procedures during the waxing and waning of the pandemic, across various hospitals in India.

Settings and Design

Multi-centric retrospective study.

Methods and Material

A research consortium led by World Health Organization (WHO) Collaboration Center (WHOCC) for Research in Surgical Care Delivery in Low-and Middle-Income countries, India, conducted this study with 5 centers. All surgeries performed during April 2020 (Wave I), November 2020 (Recovery I), and April 2021 (Wave II) were compared with those performed in April 2019 (pre-pandemic period).

Statistical Analysis Used

Microsoft Excel 2019 and SPSS Version 20.

Results

The total number of surgeries reduced by 77% during Wave I, which improved to a 52% reduction in Recovery I compared to the pre-pandemic period. However, surgeries were reduced again during Wave II to 68%, but the reduction was less compared to Wave I. Emergency and essential surgeries were affected along with the elective ones but to a lesser extent.

Conclusions

The present study has quantified the effects of the pandemic on surgical-care delivery across a timeline and documented a reduction in overall surgical volumes during the peaks of the pandemic (Wave I and II) with minimal improvement as the surge of COVID-19 cases declined (Recovery II). The surgical volumes improved during the second wave compared to the first one which may be attributable to better preparedness. Cesarean sections were affected the least.

Pulse parameter optimizer: an efficient tool for achieving prescribed dose and dose rate with electron FLASH platforms

Purpose. Commercial electron FLASH platforms deliver ultra-high dose rate doses at discrete combinations of pulse parameters including pulse width (PW), pulse repetition frequency (PRF) and number of pulses (N), which dictate unique combinations of dose and dose rates. Additionally, collimation, source to surface distance, and airgaps also vary the dose per pulse (DPP). Currently, obtaining pulse parameters for the desired dose and dose rate is a cumbersome manual process involving creating, updating, and looking up values in large spreadsheets for every treatment configuration. This work presents a pulse parameter optimizer application to match intended dose and dose rate precisely and efficiently.Methods. Dose and dose rate calculation methods have been described for a commercial electron FLASH platform. A constrained optimization for the dose and dose rate cost function was modelled as a mixed integer problem in MATLAB (The MathWorks Inc., Version9.13.0 R2022b, Natick, Massachusetts). The beam and machine data required for the application were acquired using GafChromic film and alternating current current transformers (ACCTs). Variables for optimization included DPP for every collimator, PW and PRF measured using ACCT and airgap factors.Results. Using PW, PRF,Nand airgap factors as parameters, a software was created to optimize dose and dose rate, reaching the closest match if exact dose and dose rates are not achievable. Optimization took 20 s or less to converge to results. This software was validated for accuracy of dose calculation and precision in matching prescribed dose and dose rate.Conclusion. A pulse parameter optimization application was built for a commercial electron FLASH platform to increase efficiency in dose, dose rate, and pulse parameter prescription process. Automating this process reduces safety concerns associated with manual look up and calculation of these parameters, especially when many subjects at different doses and dose rates are to be safely managed.

Outcomes and complications of Titanium elastic nailing for forearm bones fracture in children: our experience in a district general hospital in the United Kingdom

Intramedullary Titanium elastic nailing (TENS) is successfully used for irreducible and displaced forearm bone fractures in children. The purpose of this study was to report the potential complications and functional outcomes associated with paediatric forearm fractures treated with TENS nails. We retrospectively reviewed 65 children with displaced forearm bone fractures treated by TENS nailing with a mean follow-up of 5.84 months (4-12). Data detailing patient demographics, fracture characteristics, associated fractures, injury surgery interval, grade of the operating surgeon, methods of fixation, time to union, the timing of removal of the nail, and complications were collected and analysed. The mean age in our study was 9.13 years. 92% had fractures of both radius and ulna, 83.3% had fixation of both bones, and 16.7% had single bone fixation only. Open reduction was required in 38.5% of cases. The average time to fracture union was 10.34 weeks (6-20). The average time of implant removal was 20.12 weeks (9-32). We observed an overall complication rate of 41.5%. We noted a higher (56% vs 32.5%, p=0.059) complication rate in open reduction cases. According to the Price criteria, we had excellent to good results in over 98% of patients despite a slightly higher complication rate. Titanium elastic nailing is a safe, reliable method of internal fixation for irreducible or unstable fractures of both bones of the forearm in children. Open reduction of fracture was associated with higher complications. Despite higher overall complications, we noted excellent functional results in most cases.

LAPAROSCOPIC APPROACH TO A GIANT RUPTURED SPLENIC CYST: A CHALLENGING CASE REPORT

Splenic cysts are rare; their absence of an epithelial wall determines whether they're real cysts or pseudocysts. Spontaneous nonparasitic actual tumors are those that develop early in life at the anterior pole of the splenic and are typically epidermoid, dermoid, or endodermal. Surgical therapy is suggested for symptomatic, large (more than 5 cm) cysts or complicated. Inhaling splenic excision is a substitute for surgery, depending on the quantity, location, connection to the hilus, and dimension of the tumors. With an emphasis on less invasive treatments that preserve the spleen, laparoscopic methods have already established themselves as the accepted method for treating numerous disorders, including splenic cysts. They describe the effective decapsulation of a massive epidermoid spleen tumor under a prolonged, partially endoscopic technique. Laparoscopy, an operation commonly referred to as surgery with minimally invasive or keyhole surgery, is a technique that makes many tiny incisions in the belly to carry out different surgical procedures.

Critical reflections on the concept and impact of "scaling up" in Global Mental Health

The field of Global Mental Health (GMH) aims to address the global burden of mental illness by focusing on closing the "treatment gap" faced by many low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). To increase access to services, GMH prioritizes "scaling up" mental health services, primarily advocating for the export of Western centred and developed biomedical and psychosocial "evidence-based" approaches to the Global South. While this emphasis on scalability has resulted in the increased availability of mental health services in some LMICs, there have been few critical discussions of this strategy. This commentary critically appraises the scalability of GMH by questioning the validity and sustainability of its approach. We argue that the current approach emphasizes the development of mental health services and interventions in "silos," focusing on the treatment of mental illnesses at the exclusion of a holistic and contextualized approach to people's needs. We also question the opportunities that the current approach to GMH offers for the growth of mental health programmes of local NGOs and investigate the potential pitfalls that scalability may have on NGOs' impact and ability to innovate. This commentary argues that any "scaling up" of mental health services must place sustainability at the core of its mission by favouring the growth and development of local solutions and wider forms of support that prioritize social inclusion and long-lasting mental health recovery.

Evaluation of the impact of continuous Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) initiated immediately after birth compared to KMC initiated after stabilization in newborns with birth weight 1.0 to < 1.8 kg on neurodevelopmental outcomes: Protocol for a follow-up study

BACKGROUND

Preterm birth or low birth weight is the single largest cause of death in newborns, however this mortality can be reduced through newborn care interventions, including Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC). Previously, a multi-country randomized controlled trial, coordinated by the World Health Organization (WHO), reported a significant survival advantage with initiation of continuous KMC immediately after birth compared with initiation of continuous KMC a few days after birth when the baby is considered clinically stable. Whether the survival advantage would lead to higher rates of neurodevelopmental morbidities, or the immediate KMC will also have a beneficial effect on cognitive development also, has not been investigated. We therefore propose to test the hypothesis that low-birth-weight infants exposed to immediate KMC will have lower rates of neurodevelopmental impairment in comparison to traditional KMC-treated infants, by prospectively following up infants already enrolled in the immediate KMC trial for the first 2 years of life, and assessing their growth and neurodevelopment.

METHODS

This prospective cohort study will enroll surviving neonates from the main WHO immediate KMC trial. The main trial as well as this follow-up study are being conducted in five low- and middle-income countries in South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. The estimated sample size for comparison of the risk of neurodevelopmental impairment is a total of 2200 children. The primary outcome will include rates of cerebral palsy, hearing impairment, vision impairment, mental and motor development, and epilepsy and will be assessed by the age of 3 years. The analysis will be by intention to treat.

DISCUSSION

Immediate KMC can potentially reduce low-birth-weight-associated complications such as respiratory disease, hypothermia, hypoglycemia, and infection that can result in impaired neurocognitive development. Neuroprotection may also be mediated by improved physiological stabilization that may lead to better maturation of neural pathways, reduced risk of hypoxia, positive parental impact, improved sleep cycles, and improved stress responses. The present study will help in evaluating the overall impact of KMC by investigating the long-term effect on neurodevelopmental impairment in the survivors.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinical Trials Registry-India CTRI/2019/11/021899. Registered on 06 November 2019. Trials registration of parent trial: ACTRN12618001880235; Clinical Trials Registry-India: CTRI/2018/08/015369.

A cost analysis of treating postoperative periprosthetic femoral fractures following hip replacement surgery in a UK tertiary referral centre

AIM

This study aims to evaluate costs associated with periprosthetic femoral fracture (PFF) treatment at a UK tertiary referral centre.

METHODS

This study included 128 consecutive PFFs admitted from 02/04/2014-19/05/2020. Financial data were provided by Patient Level Information and Costing Systems. Primary outcomes were median cost and margin. Secondary outcomes were length of stay, blood transfusion, critical care, 30-day readmission, 2-year local complication, 2-year systemic complication, 2-year reoperation and 30-day mortality rates. Statistical comparisons were made between treatment type. Statistical significance was set at p<0.05.

RESULTS

Across the cohort, median cost was £15,644.00 (IQR £11,031.00-£22,255.00) and median loss was £3757.50 (£599.20-£8296.20). The highest costs were ward stay (£3994.00, IQR £1,765.00-£7,013.00), theatre utilisation (£2962.00, IQR £0.00-£4,286.00) and overheads (£1705.10, IQR £896.70-£2432.20). Cost (£17,455.00 [IQR, £13,194.00-£23,308.00] versus £7697.00 [IQR £3871.00-£10,847.00], p<0.001) and loss (£4890.00 [IQR £1308.00-£10,009.00] versus £1882.00 [IQR £313.00-£3851.00], p = 0.02) were greater in the operative versus the nonoperative group. There was no difference in cost (£17,634.00 [IQR £12,965.00-£22,958.00] versus £17,399.00 [IQR £13,394.00-£23,404.00], p = 0.98) or loss (£5374.00 [IQR £1950.00-£10,143.00] versus £3860.00 [IQR -£95.50-£7601.00], p = 0.21) between the open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) and revision groups. More patients required blood transfusion in the operative versus the nonoperative group (17 [17.9%] versus 0 [0.0%], p = 0.009). There was no difference in any clinical outcome between the ORIF and revision groups (p>0.05).

CONCLUSION

PFF treatment costs are high with inadequate reimbursement from NHS tariff. Work is needed to address this disparity and reduce hospital costs. Cost should not be used to decide between ORIF and revision surgery.

1147 MORPHO-FUNCTIONAL EVALUATION OF 3MG/KG ICV-STZ RAT SHOWED SPORADIC ALZHEIMER'S LIKE PATHOLOGY WITH PROGRESSIVE DEMENTIA

Background

Intracerebroventricular streptozotocin (ICV-STZ) injection is among the best animal models to simulate sporadic Alzheimer’s disease (sAD). Abnormality in brain insulin signalling, neurodegeneration, neuroinflammation, cholinergic damage, mitochondrial dysfunction, genetic abnormality, respiratory problem, oxidative stress, gliosis, sleep disturbances are associated with cognitive abnormalities seen in ICV-STZ injected rats. Available experimental evidence has used varying doses of STZ (&lt;1 to 3mg/kg) and studied its effect for different study durations, ranging from 14-21 (short), 30-42 (mild), 90-105 (moderate) and 250-270 (long) days. These studies indicated that 3mg/kg of body-weight is the optimum dose for inducing sAD in the rodents. However, studies on the pathological process with related the morphological and functional abnormalities reported were illusive.

Objective/Method

Hence in the present study, we have investigated the morpho-functional changes after 3mg/kg ICV-STZ treatment with a follow-up of two months in 54 male Wistar rats (ethical no. 937/IAEC/PhD-2016).

Results

Exhibited a spatial, episodic and avoidance memory decline and increase in anxiety (p&lt;0.05) in ICV-STZ group progressively with time from 15th day to 60th day post-injection. Morphometry showed hippocampal atrophy with CA1, CA3 layer thinning (p ≤0.01) and loss of neurons (p&lt;0.0001) associated with third ventricular enlargement (p= 0.007) in ICV-STZ rats versus sham, along-with extracellular amyloid plaque in AD rats with Congored staining. In addition, spine morphometry with Golgi-Cox impregnation of mossy fibre showed a reduction of spine density in AD group versus control and sham group (p&lt;0.0001). Finally, immunohistochemistry of GSK3ß, PI3K and mtCOX-1 antigen in coronal sections revealed an increase in mean intensity of GSK3ß and decrease in PI3K and mtCox-1 in brain areas associated with limbic system in ICV-STZ group on 60th day.

Conclusion

These findings suggest progressive dementia and anxiety in 3mg/kg STZ treated rats, which may be due to hippocampal atrophy, amyloidopathy, ventricular enlargement, synaptic dysfunction and deficits in energy homeostasis of brain.

1145 RTMS TREATMENT IMPROVED COGNITIVE DYSFUNCTION THROUGH ADULT NEUROGENESIS IN ICV-STZ RAT MODEL OF SPORADIC ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE

Background

Intracerebroventricular streptozotocin injection at 3mg/kg of b/w causes phenotypes similar to that of sporadic Alzheimer’s disease (sAD) from 14th day post-injection. On the other hand, the body of evidence indicated that impairment in the sAD is the major contributor for cognitive decline. Taken together, we tested the adult neurogenesis hypothesis in streptozotocin model of sAD in female Wistar rats after extremely low magnetic stimulation (MF: 17.96, 50Hz, 2hr/day, 21days).

Method

33 rats were randomly divided into three groups viz. Sham+MF, AD and AD+MF. Consequently, animals were first induced AD with stereotaxic manipulation and then they were exposed to low frequency magnetic field stimulation, followed by terminal cognitive behavioural tasks brain tissue being isolated for both biochemical and subcellular expression experiments (ethical no. 12/IAEC-1/2017).

Results

Showed reduction in latency to the goal quadrant (p= 0.002) and transfer latency (p= 0.045) in AD+MF group versus AD. Even, Dirichlet distribution of time spent in 4 quadrants indicated un-uniform in all the groups except AD group (p= 0.067, LRS= 7.35). Further, cell count in CA3 and DG exhibited increase in cell density in AD+MF group (p&lt;0.05). However, we found significant reduction in SOD1 activity after MF treatment (p= 0.035) but no change in GSH level in hippocampus and frontal cortex. Interestingly, these changes in AD+MF animals are associated with increase in density of BrdU+/Nestin+ cells in granular layer (p= 0.002) and hilus region (p= 0.0005) of DG along with increase in expression of L-type Ca2+ channels as compared to AD group.

Conclusion

This experimental evidence suggests that non-invasive brain stimulation can promote adult neurogenesis by activating L-type ca2+ channels in the hilus, which intern helps in retention of long-term memory even after sAD.

An interdisciplinary effort to understand chemical organizations at the origin of life

This backstory features the perspectives of three group leaders of a Franco-Indian collaboration on the origin of life, involving efforts to engineer evolvable chemical systems. The researchers explain how they overcame the difficulties to bring empiricist and theorist cultures together and the importance of such synergy for the future of origin of life research.

Management of dog bite wounds: Our protocol and experience with early surgical intervention

Dog bites injuries are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality. Conventionally, it was suggested to leave the wounds open due to probable increased risk of infections and occurrence of rabies with suturing.Recent publications indicate that primary closure does not necessarily affect the chances of infection but definitely helps in improving the quality of scar. We are presenting our experience and protocol for primary closure of all dog bite wounds. From March 2020 to February 2021, 10 consecutive patients of all ages coming to the emergency of our hospital with category 3 dog bite that penetrated the epidermis and dermis and presenting within 48 hours of injury were included. Every patient was administered first dose of anti rabies vaccine (ARV) (zero dose) for active immunisation and was also given injection tetanus intramuscularly. Mean age of patients in our study was 20.9 with range from 2 years to 90 years. Only 2/10 patients developed infections which were managed conservatively with drainage of abscess and antibiotics. Rest all patients recovered without complications. Primary closure of dog bite wounds when associated with debridement, sufficient irrigation, povidine iodine cleansing and antibiotic administration resulted in improved cosmetic appearance without increase in the rate of infection.

Correlation of arterial PaCO2 to end tidal CO2 in children undergoing laparoscopic abdominal surgery: An observational study

Background and Aims

The reliability of end tidal carbon dioxide (ETCO2) as a measure of arterial carbon dioxide (PaCO2) in pediatric laparoscopy is unclear. We evaluated the correlation of arterial to end tidal P(a-ET) CO2 during pediatric laparoscopy at two hours of pneumoperitoneum as the primary objective. We also compared P(a-ET) CO2 and alveolar to arterial oxygen gradient P(A-a) O2 and haemodynamics at fixed time points during surgery.

Material and Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted in 25 children undergoing laparoscopic abdominal surgery. Arterial blood gases were drawn at T0, baseline, T10: ten minutes, T1h: 1 hour, T2h: 2 hours of pnuemoperitoneum and T 10d: 10 mins after deflation. The P(a-ET) CO2, P(A-a) O2, were measured from the blood gas and ETCO2 and FiO2 values on the monitor. The Pearson's correlation coefficient, the Wilcoxon rank test and Chi square test were used for statistical analysis.

Results

At T2h moderate correlation of P(a-ET) CO2 (r = 0.605, P = 0.001) with 40% children documenting accurate P(a-ET) CO2, -1 to +1 mm Hg was seen. Moderate correlation was also seen at T0, T10, T 10d but poor correlation at T 1h. The P(A-a) O2 increased progressively with surgery and did not correlate with P(a-ET) CO2. Heart rate was stable, but systolic blood pressures at T 10 and diastolic at T10, T 1h, T 2h were higher than baseline.

Conclusion

Moderate correlation was seen between PaCO2 and ETCO2 at 2 h of pnuemoperitoneum and at T0, T 10, and T 10d. P(A-a) O2 increased with surgery but did not correlate with P(a-ET) CO2.

AB0417 SHORT-TERM EFFECT OF METHOTREXATE ON APOLIPOPROTEINS AND LIPID PROFILE IN PATIENTS WITH ACTIVE RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS

Background

Methotrexate (MTX) forms the first line therapy for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The cardioprotective effect of MTX is well established, but whether this is just due to control of inflammation, or is also via an effect on serum lipoproteins, is unclear. Although a few studies have studied the effect of the MTX on the traditional lipid profile in RA1, there is no data on the effect of MTX on apolipoproteins (Apo A1, Apo B, ApoB/ApoA1), which are considered better cardiovascular risk predictors than the traditional lipid profile.

Objectives

To determine the short-term effect of MTX on apolipoproteins and traditional lipid profile in patients with active RA.

Methods

DMARD-naïve patients with active RA (SJC≥2 and TJC≥4) who had been enrolled in the multicentre, RCT comparing two different MTX escalation strategies in RA (MEIRA)2 and for whom paired serum samples were available before and after MTX treatment were included. All these patients received MTX monotherapy started at 15 mg/week and escalated to 25 mg/week by 4-8 weeks. Serum levels of apolipoprotein A1 (Apo A1), apolipoprotein B (Apo B), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and triglycerides (TG) were measured before starting MTX and after 16 weeks of MTX monotherapy. Proatherosclerotic indices (TC/HDL and ApoB/ApoA1) were also calculated.

Results

A total of 103 patients [mean age 40 (8) years, 93 (90%) females, mean BMI 25.1 (4.8) kg/m2, all non-smokers and non-alcoholics] were included. No study participant had comorbid diabetes mellitus or coronary artery disease; none of them were taking glucocorticoids or hypolipidemic drugs. An increase in Apo A1 levels [by a mean of 5.6 mg/dL (p=0.02)], and HDL levels [by a mean of 1.6 mg/dL (p=0.04)] was seen after 16 weeks of MTX monotherapy. Although a numerical increase in levels of TC (mean 4.6 mg/dL, p=0.07), LDL (mean 2 mg/dL, p=0.34) and TG (mean 6.6 mg/dL, p=0.35) was also noted, none of these were statistically significant. No obvious change in Apo B levels and TC/HDL ratio occurred due to MTX therapy. However, the ApoB/ApoA1 ratio decreased significantly from 0.8 to 0.7 (p=0.002) with 16 weeks of MTX therapy (Table 1).

Table 1.

Baseline and end of treatment values of apolipoprotein A1 (Apo A1), apolipoprotein B (Apo B), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), triglycerides (TG), and proatherosclerotic indices (TC/HDL and ApoB/ApoA1).

Parameter (mg/dL)BaselineAfter 16 weeks of MTX therapyp-valueApo A1126.0 (25.1)131.6 (23.4)0.02Apo B92.3 (18.9)92.0 (20.9)0.84ApoB/ApoA10.8 (0.2)0.7 (0.2)0.002TC164.5 (32.4)169.1 (36.8)0.07HDL40.9 (9.8)42.5 (9.7)0.04TC/HDL4.2 (1.1)4.1 (1.1)0.34LDL88.8 (25.2)90.8 (29.8)0.34TG139.8 (69.6)146.4 (91.3)0.35

All values represented as mean (SD).

Apo A1=apolipoprotein A1, ApoB=apolipoprotein B, TC=total cholesterol, LDL=low-density lipoprotein, HDL=high-density lipoprotein, TG=triglycerides

Conclusion

MTX therapy led to a mild but significant increase in HDL, ApoA1 and a reduction in ApoB/ApoA1 over short-term. This could potentially represent one of the mechanisms by which MTX exerts its cardioprotective effect; however, these changes need to be carefully interpreted over longer term and in context of the lipid paradox operating in RA.

References

[1]Navarro-Millán I, Charles-Schoeman C, Yang S, et al. Changes in lipoproteins associated with methotrexate or combination therapy in early rheumatoid arthritis: results from the treatment of early rheumatoid arthritis trial. Arthritis Rheum. 2013;65(6):1430-1438.

[2]Jain S, Dhir V, Aggarwal A, et al. Comparison of two dose escalation strategies of methotrexate in active rheumatoid arthritis: a multicentre, parallel group, randomised controlled trial. Ann Rheum Dis. 2021;80(11):1376-1384.

Disclosure of Interests

None declared

Utilitarian Concept of Mind and Mental Health

Introduction

Many classification system and mental health act in many country attempted to define mental illness but mental health perse has not been defined.Some unaddressed question like ” what is diseased in mental illness, what do you treat or set right by treatment, how the psychiatrist say that a pateint is improved and describe or define mental health” are addressed.

Objectives

Working concept for professionals of all allied clinical disciplines. Enable them to understand mental illness and mental health in a uniform and consistent way. Enable all MHP to speak the same language, without room for personal bias. Avoid misconceptions and reduce the stigma with mental illness

Methods

We divided spectrum of mental health into Mentally Healthy, Not Healthy, Unhealthy and ill . Based on two dimension: 1. impact on self and 2. Impact on other. Awareness of ones own self, ability to relate well with other and ones own actions are useful to self as well as others are the three arms of mental health.

Results

A presentation was given to psychiatrist & allied sciences professional & members from judicairy, technolocrats, industrialist and educationist. Interaction was recorded and analysed, people even gave their responses comments and suggestions by mail and writing.

Conclusions

Mind is defined as a functional concept consists of Mood Thought and Intellect which is nicely amalgamated in a synchronised manner which always function in unison and the constituents cannot function in isolation. The three arms of the mental health are used to develop a tool to measure the same. All details will be discussed during the presentation.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.

Bullying victimization in children and adolescents and its impact on academic outcomes

Introduction

Bullying is a serious problem in schools because of the negative impact on a child’s educational outcomes, especially academic achievement. However, the underlying mechanisms and causes are unknown.

Objectives

To evaluate the educational outcomes, and psychiatric comorbidities in children and adolescents who are victims of bullying

Methods

We used 2018–2019 Nationwide Survey of Children’s Health (NSCH) dataset for the study. The participants were children and adolescents (age: 6-17 years, n = 42,790). Data was stratified into two groups: 1) never bullied 2) bullied more than once. Prevalence of different educational outcomes were compared between the groups.

Results

In the never bullied group 21,015 participants were included, and in the bullied more than once group 21,775 participants were included. More females were in the bullied group compared to never bullied group (50.4% vs 47.5%, p=0.006). More White non- Hispanic individuals were in bullied group in contrast to never bullied group (56.7% vs 43.9%, p< 0.001). Individuals whose health status was fair, or poor were bullied more (2.4% vs 1.4%, p=<0.001). Individuals in bullied group were more likely to be repeating the grades compared to the never bullied group (7.1% vs 5.9%, p:0.039). Individuals who were missing >=11 school days, and sometimes or never engaged in school were observed more in bullied group compared to never bullied group (5.9% vs 3.2% and 20.3% vs 10.6% p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that bullying victimization could be a risk factor and associated with decreased academic outcomes.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.

POS0566 PREDICTORS OF RESPONSE TO METHOTREXATE MONOTHERAPY IN ACTIVE RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS: RESULTS FROM A MULTICENTRE, RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL (MEIRA)

Background

Methotrexate (MTX) is the gold standard, first-line therapy for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, not all patients respond to MTX, and the predictors of its response or non-response have not yet been reliably identified. Identification of these predictors will facilitate personalized therapeutic choices, and improve patient outcomes.

Objectives

To identify the clinico-laboratory predictors of response to MTX monotherapy in active RA.

Methods

This study included patients with active RA (SJC≥2 and TJC≥4) aged 18-55 years, with disease duration <5 years, who were not receiving DMARDs (except HCQ and low-dose prednisolone) and had been enrolled in the multicentre, parallel group RCT comparing two different MTX escalation strategies in RA (MEIRA)1. All these patients received MTX monotherapy which was started at 15 mg/week, escalated to 25 mg/week by 4-8 weeks, and continued till 16 weeks. MTX response was defined as EULAR good or moderate response (based on DAS28-CRP-3v) at 16 weeks. Stepwise, multivariable logistic regression was done using key demographic (age, gender, BMI, comorbidities), clinical (disease duration, DAS28, HAQ), and laboratory parameters (RF, anti-CCP, ESR, CRP, RBC MTX-polyglutamates 1-4, IL-6, MMP-3) as independent variables to identify predictors of MTX response. A two-tailed p-value <0.05 was used for defining statistical significance. (Trial Reg: CTRI/2018/12/016549)

Results

Out of a total of 178 included patients [84% females, mean age 40 (9) years, mean DAS28-CRP=5.4 (1.1)], 113 (63.5%) were classified as MTX responders at 16 weeks. Age (OR=0.95, p=0.01), BMI (OR=1.12, p=0.006), and RF (OR=0.34, p=0.045) were found to be independent predictors of MTX response on multivariable analysis (Table 1). On sensitivity analysis with DAS28-ESR-based EULAR response, age (OR=0.94, p=0.003) and RF (OR=0.42, p=0.059) were replicated as independent predictors of MTX response, in addition to pre-treatment swollen joint count (OR=0.94, p=0.05).

Table 1.

Results of multivariable logistic regression analysis for prediction of response (as defined by DAS28-CRP-based EULAR good or moderate response) to methotrexate monotherapy in RA

VariableOR (unadjusted)Unadjusted p-valueOR (adjusted)Adjusted p-valueAge0.97 (0.93-1.002)0.060.95 (0.91-0.99)0.01Male sex0.78 (0.35-1.76)0.55-BMI1.1 (1.02-1.19)0.011.12 (1.03-1.22)0.006Presence of comorbidities0.67 (0.31-1.44)0.31-Disease duration0.98 (0.79-1.22)0.87-Baseline DAS281.1 (0.81-1.49)0.54-Baseline HAQ1.04 (0.66-1.64)0.86-Baseline TJC1.01 (0.96-1.05)0.72-Baseline SJC0.97 (0.91-1.02)0.24-Baseline ESR1.01 (1.00-1.02)0.27-Baseline CRP1.00 (0.99-1.01)0.85-RF positive0.31 (0.11-0.85)0.020.34 (0.12-0.98)0.045Anti-CCP positive0.73 (0.27-1.99)0.54-MTX PG1 (16 weeks)0.99 (0.94-1.04)0.69-MTX PG2 (16 weeks)0.98 (0.95-1.02)0.37-MTX PG3 (16 weeks)0.99 (0.96-1.02)0.43-MTX PG4 (16 weeks)0.99 (0.95-1.03)0.62-Serum IL-6 (baseline)0.98 (0.95-1.02)0.33-Serum MMP-3 (baseline)1.00 (1.00-1.00)0.48-

BMI= Body Mass Index, CCP= Cyclic Citrullinated Peptides, CRP= C-reactive protein, DAS= Disease Activity Score, ESR= Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate, HAQ= Health Assessment Questionnaire, MTX= Methotrexate, PG= polyglutamate, OR=Odds Ratio, RF=Rheumatoid Factor, SJC= Swollen Joint Count, TJC= Tender Joint Count

Note: Only variables with p-value <0.2 on univariable analysis were included in the multivariable analysis.

Conclusion

Younger age, RF negativity, higher BMI, and lower pre-treatment swollen joint count are potential predictors of response to MTX monotherapy in RA.

References

[1]Jain S, Dhir V, Aggarwal A, et al. Comparison of two dose escalation strategies of methotrexate in active rheumatoid arthritis: a multicentre, parallel group, randomised controlled trial. Ann Rheum Dis. 2021;80(11):1376-1384.

Disclosure of Interests

None declared.

UK 2022 Consensus on Normal Tissue Dose-Volume Constraints for Oligometastatic, Primary Lung and Hepatocellular Carcinoma Stereotactic Ablative Radiotherapy

The use of stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR) in the UK has expanded over the past decade, in part as the result of several UK clinical trials and a recent NHS England Commissioning through Evaluation programme. A UK SABR Consortium consensus for normal tissue constraints for SABR was published in 2017, based on the existing literature at the time. The published literature regarding SABR has increased in volume over the past 5 years and multiple UK centres are currently working to develop new SABR services. A review and update of the previous consensus is therefore appropriate and timely. It is hoped that this document will provide a useful resource to facilitate safe and consistent SABR practice.

CURRENT TRENDS IN PRESCRIBING PATTERN OF ANTI-MIGRAINE DRUGS IN PATIENTS OF MIGRAINE AT A TERTIARY CARE TEACHING HOSPITAL

Background. An inappropriate prescribing pattern of antimigraine drugs by doctors may often encourage inappropriate self-medication by patients because of the asymmetry of medical information. Objective. The study is aimed to assess the current trends in prescribing patterns of anti-migraine drugs, rationality of prescription, and pattern of migraine severity in patients of migraine. Methods. A cross sectional study was conducted at a tertiary care teaching hospital. All the prescribing details including patient’s demographic details, diagnosis, details of drug therapy (drug name, dose, duration, and frequency) were recorded. Rationality of prescription was assessed using the WHO core drug prescribing indicators and the pattern of severity of migraine was assessed using MIDAS scoring system. Results. Out of 85 patients, 71 were female (83.5%), mostly around 21-30 years of age, and 27 (31.7%) patients had other comorbidities. Naproxen was the most commonly used NSAID for termination of acute migraine attack (15.3 %). The most common drugs prescribed for prophylaxis included beta adrenergic blockers (Propranolol, 14.66%), antidepressants (Amitriptyline, 9.33% and Fluoxetine 3.33%), and antipsychotics (Prochlorperazine, 4.66%). Domperidone (17.30%) was the most commonly prescribed antiemetic. Prescription of triptans was low (2.66%) with Rizatriptan as the most commonly prescribed triptan. Conclusions. The current study revealed that further improvements are required in prescribing practices especially in average number of drugs per prescription, prescription of drugs with generic names, and prescription of drugs of the essential drugs list.

The Emirates Mars Mission

The Emirates Mars Mission (EMM) was launched to Mars in the summer of 2020, and is the first interplanetary spacecraft mission undertaken by the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The mission has multiple programmatic and scientific objectives, including the return of scientifically useful information about Mars. Three science instruments on the mission's Hope Probe will make global remote sensing measurements of the Martian atmosphere from a large low-inclination orbit that will advance our understanding of atmospheric variability on daily and seasonal timescales, as well as vertical atmospheric transport and escape. The mission was conceived and developed rapidly starting in 2014, and had aggressive schedule and cost constraints that drove the design and implementation of a new spacecraft bus. A team of Emirati and American engineers worked across two continents to complete a fully functional and tested spacecraft and bring it to the launchpad in the middle of a global pandemic. EMM is being operated from the UAE and the United States (U.S.), and will make its data freely available.

Articular spacers in two-stage revision arthroplasty for prosthetic joint infection of the hip and the knee

Use of articular antibiotic-eluting cement spacers during two-stage revision arthroplasty for prosthetic joint infection (PJI) is a long-established and proven adjunctive technique during first-stage surgery. Articular spacers come in many forms, either static or dynamic. The authors present an instructional review of current evidence regarding their use.

A total of 45 studies (for spacer use in PJI involving either hip or knee) were analysed for data regarding eradication rate, functional outcomes, mechanical complications and the impact on second-stage surgery. A large number of case series and retrospective cohort studies were retrieved, with only a small number of prospective studies (2).

High levels of infection eradication were commonly reported (>80%). Outcome scores were commonly reported as indicating good-to-excellent function and pain levels. Second-stage procedures were often not required when dynamic spacers were used. Static spacers were associated with more mechanical complications in both the hip and the knee. In the hip, dynamic spacers were more commonly associated with instability compared to static spacers. Consideration should be given to the use of dual-mobility or constrained definitive acetabular components in these cases at second-stage surgery.

The use of antibiotic-eluting polymethylmethacrylate articular spacers in two-stage revision for PJI of hip and knee arthroplasty achieves a high rate of infection eradication. Dynamic spacers may confer a variety of benefits compared to static spacers, with a similar rate of infection eradication.

Assessment of prescribing pattern of drugs and completeness of prescriptions as per the World Health Organization prescribing indicators in various Indian tertiary care centers: A multicentric study by Rational Use of Medicines Centers-Indian Council of Medical Research network under National Virtual Centre Clinical Pharmacology activity

OBJECTIVE

The rational use of medicines as per the World Health Organization (WHO) should be practiced globally. However, data regarding the completeness of the prescriptions and their rational use is lacking from developing countries like India. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess the prescribing patterns of drugs and completeness of prescriptions as per WHO core drug use and complementary indicators to provide real-life examples for the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) online prescribing skill course for medical graduates.

METHODS

Prescriptions of the patients, fulfilling inclusion criteria, attending Outpatient Departments of various specialties of tertiary care hospitals, were collected by thirteen ICMR Rational use of medicines centers located in tertiary care hospitals, throughout India. Prescriptions were evaluated for rational use of medicines according to the WHO guidelines and for appropriateness as per standard treatment guidelines using a common protocol approved by local Ethics committees.

RESULTS

Among 4838 prescriptions, an average of about three drugs (3.34) was prescribed to the patients per prescription. Polypharmacy was noted in 83.05% of prescriptions. Generic drugs were prescribed in 47.58% of the prescriptions. Further, antimicrobials were prescribed in 17.63% of the prescriptions and only 4.98% of prescriptions were with injectables. During the prescription evaluation, 38.65% of the prescriptions were incomplete due to multiple omissions such as dose, duration, and formulation.

CONCLUSION

Most of the parameters in the present study were out of the range of WHO-recommended prescribing indicators. Therefore, effective intervention program, like training, for the promotion of rational drug use practice was recommended to improve the prescribing pattern of drugs and the quality of prescriptions all over the country.