Month: February 2023

Medical Equipments Medical Updates Medicine & Health

Brain disorders and human cognition: An insight

Post author By Pragya sharma
Post date February 28, 2023
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Human intellect is a distinguishing aspect of human evolution that distinguishes humans from other apes. Despite the fact that there have been over 100 million mutations since the human-chimp split, only a small percentage of these have been shown to be relevant.

Computer modelling was used by National Institutes of Health (NIH) researchers to find mutations in the human genome that are likely to have changed how human intelligence evolved. This groundbreaking human genomics study may advance our understanding of human health and pave the way for the creation of novel treatments for challenging brain diseases.

The study’s findings were released in Science Advances.

Human intellect is a distinguishing aspect of human evolution that distinguishes humans from other apes. Despite the fact that there have been over 100 million mutations since the human-chimp split, only a small percentage of these have been shown to be relevant. Researchers from the National Library of Medicine (NLM) and the National Cancer Institute (NCI) developed an artificial intelligence (AI) model of gene regulation in the human brain to help them traverse this huge terrain of genetic alterations. The model discovered hundreds of mutations that are likely influencing neocortical development and enhancing mathematical ability acquisition via changed brain gene regulatory pathways.

When the human genome was sequenced in 2001, researchers learned that only 2 per cent of the sequence of our genome is used for coding genes that, in turn, translate into proteins. This is the sequence information that is being used by every single cell. The function of the other 98 per cent of our DNA — often referred to as “noncoding DNA” — remains relatively unknown. It is believed that 95 per cent of disease associations hide within these noncoding parts of our genome.

The research group of Ivan Ovcharenko, PhD, senior investigator in the Computational Biology Branch of NLM’s Intramural Research Program teamed up with the research group of Sridhar Hannenhalli, PhD, senior investigator in NCI’s Center for Cancer Research to create an AI model that measures the effect of noncoding genome mutations on human brain function and development. This led to the identification of a group of noncoding mutations disrupting brain regulatory pathways and potentially causing various complex brain disorders, including autism.

“There are treasure islands within the sea of noncoding DNA in the human genome that are critically important for regulating human genes,” said Dr Ovcharenko.

“Mutations in these regions are largely benign, but there is a class of mutations which detrimentally impact the function of regulatory regions in the brain and affect cellular activity there. By being able to address the impact of individual mutations, we are advancing towards understanding the mechanism of complex diseases and disorders and paving the way for the development of novel therapeutic approaches.” (ANI)

National Protein Day: Everyday tips for healthy protein consumption

Post author By Pragya sharma
Post date February 27, 2023
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While it is important to consume enough protein, it is also crucial to ensure that the sources of protein are healthy and nutritious. Check out some expert approved tips for healthy protein consumption.

Protein is an essential macronutrient that plays a vital role in building and repairing tissues, regulating hormones, and supporting a healthy immune system. While it is important to consume enough protein, it is also crucial to ensure that the sources of protein are healthy and nutritious. Despite its many benefits, many people struggle to consume enough protein in their diet, which can lead to a host of health problems. That’s why National Protein Day is an excellent opportunity to focus on incorporating more high-quality protein into your daily routine. Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or meat-eater, there are plenty of delicious and healthy protein-rich foods to choose from.

On National Protein Day, Soumava Sengupta, CEO, BUILD., shared some tips with HT Lifestyle for healthy protein consumption.

National Protein Day: Everyday tips for healthy protein consumption

1. Choose lean protein sources: Lean protein sources such as chicken, turkey, fish, and legumes are excellent options for healthy protein consumption. They are low in saturated fat and provide important nutrients like iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.

2. Incorporate plant-based proteins: Plant-based proteins such as tofu, tempeh, nuts, and seeds are great sources of protein for vegetarians and vegans. They are also typically high in fibre and other important nutrients.

3. Don’t forget about eggs: Eggs are an excellent source of protein, as well as vitamin D, vitamin B12, and choline. Aim to incorporate eggs into your diet in a variety of ways, such as scrambled, hard-boiled, or in omelettes.

4. Use protein powder wisely: Protein powder/whey proteins can be a convenient way to add protein to your diet, but it is important to choose a high-quality, minimally processed brand. Additionally, be mindful of added sugars and other additives in protein powders.

5. Balance your meals: When planning meals, aim to include a source of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. This will not only help ensure that you are getting enough protein but also help keep you feeling full and satisfied.

6. Snack smart: Snacks can be a great opportunity to sneak in some extra protein. Some healthy protein-packed snack options include Greek yogurt, string cheese, and hummus with veggies.

7. Watch your portions: While protein is important, it is also important not to overdo it. Aim for a portion size of about 3-4 ounces of lean protein per meal.

8. Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water is important for overall health, including proper digestion and absorption of nutrients like protein. Aim to drink at least 8 cups of water per day.

Incorporating healthy protein sources into your diet is essential for overall health and wellness. By choosing lean protein sources, incorporating plant-based proteins, and balancing your meals, you can ensure that you are getting enough protein to support your body’s needs.

Additionally, snacking smart and watching your portions can help you avoid overdoing it on protein. With these everyday tips for healthy protein consumption, you can feel confident that you are providing your body with the nutrients it needs to thrive.

Autoimmune liver disease: Warning signs, lifestyle changes, treatment

Post author By Pragya sharma
Post date February 25, 2023
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The exact cause of autoimmune liver disease is not known, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Here’s all you want to know.

Autoimmune liver disease is a condition where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the liver cells, leading to inflammation and damage to the liver. Sometimes, people suffering from this condition do not have symptoms unless serious damage is caused. Having a family history of autoimmune diseases, certain infections or hormonal imbalances during pregnancy or menopause can also trigger this. Some of the symptoms of autoimmune liver disease includes fatigue, abdominal discomfort, yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes, an enlarged liver, abnormal blood vessels on skin, skin rashes, joint pain, loss of menstrual periods among others.

There are two main types of autoimmune liver disease: autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) and primary biliary cholangitis (PBC).

Causes of autoimmune liver disease

“The exact cause of autoimmune liver disease is not known, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some risk factors for developing autoimmune liver disease include family history of autoimmune disease, certain infections, such as hepatitis A, B, or C, exposure to certain drugs or toxins, hormonal imbalances, such as during pregnancy or menopause, autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus,” says Dr Neerav Goyal, Senior Consultant, Liver Transplant, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, New Delhi.

Treatment of autoimmune liver disease

The treatment for autoimmune liver disease depends on the specific type and severity of the condition. In general, the goal of treatment is to reduce inflammation, slow or stop the progression of liver damage, and manage symptoms.

Dr Goyal suggests the following treatments:

1. Medications: Immunosuppressive medications, such as corticosteroids and azathioprine, are often used to suppress the immune system and reduce inflammation.

2. Ursodeoxycholic acid: This medication is often used in the treatment of primary biliary cholangitis. It helps to slow down the progression of liver damage and relieve some symptoms.

3. Liver transplant: In severe cases where the liver has sustained significant damage, a liver transplant may be necessary. During a liver transplant, the damaged liver is replaced with a healthy liver from a donor.

4. Lifestyle changes: Making healthy lifestyle choices, such as maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding alcohol and tobacco, and getting regular exercise, can help improve liver function and overall health.

It is important to work closely with a healthcare provider to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to the individual’s needs and goals. Regular monitoring of liver function and symptoms is also necessary to track the progression of the disease and adjust treatment as needed.

What is a stem cell transplant?

Post author By Pragya sharma
Post date February 24, 2023
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A third patient was reported HIV-free this week after receiving a stem cell transplant. Here’s everything you need to know about the procedure.

A study published February 9 declared a third person free of HIV after receiving a specific type of bone marrow, or stem cell, transplant. The 53-year-old man, who researchers are calling the “Düsseldorf” patient, received the treatment in 2013 and has been monitored since.

Like the two others — known as the “Berlin” and “London” patients, respectively — the man was positive for Type 1 HIV (HIV-1) and received a specific type of stem cell transplant to help treat a cancer diagnosis.

Both the Düsseldorf and Berlin patients had leukemia, while the London patient had Hodgkin’s lymphoma. (Also Read | ‘Duesseldorf patient’ cured of HIV, cancer after stem cell transplant: Study)

What are stem cells?

“Stem cell” is an umbrella term that refers to cells that are constantly dividing and have the potential to form different cell types.

Most of the body’s cells are very specialized and can’t change type — they will be stuck as heart muscle cells, neurons or intestine wall cells for the rest of their “lives”.

In contrast, stem cells are more like teenagers about to graduate high school.

They have the potential to become pretty much anything — a lawyer, nurse, scientist, journalist, influencer or TikToker — and must adapt to new trends.

What are hematopoietic stem cells?

The three HIV-free patients all received an allogenic hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) transplant.

The terms “bone marrow” and “stem cell” are often used interchangeably when talking about this procedure, because there are HSCs in our bone marrow.

HSCs are a cell-producing machinery that can give rise to blood and immune system cells through a process called hematopoiesis, which comes from two Greek words that together mean “blood making”.

You might not realize it, but every day HSCs produce around 300 billion new cells in your bone marrow.

Different types of stem cells

But not all teenagers are equally flexible when it comes to figuring out what they want to become. Some may be really into art, while others may be passionate about science and incapable of drawing a tree.

Stem cells also have different types of potential. Some can generate many different cell types, while others only a few.

Pluripotent stem cells can generate all the different types of cells required for an embryo to develop. Multipotent stem cells, on the other hand, can only generate a few types of cells.

Adult humans have multipotent stem cells in parts of the body where the cells need constant replenishment, like the skin, bones and gonads.

Scientists received the Nobel Prize in 2012 after proving it’s possible to manipulate already-differentiated cells into becoming pluripotent again through a process called “cell reprogramming”.

Since then, stem cell therapy has become a very active field of research.

Hematopoietic stem cell transplant

There are several types of stem cell therapies, and despite being harsh and risky, the HSC transplant is the most popular.

The procedure attempts to fix unhealthy bone marrow by replacing it with healthy marrow from a donor. It treats conditions that are often life-threatening, like certain types of cancers or blood/immune disorders such as sickle cell disease.

Stem cell transplants are classified by the origin of the stem cells that are being transplanted. For example, if the cells come from the body of the person who is being treated, the procedure is called an autologous stem cell transplant. If they come from someone else, it’s considered allogenic.

Each of the three HIV-free patients received an allogenic HSC transplant.

A high-risk transplant

Before receiving an HSC transplant, a patient is required to undergo a harsh “conditioning” regimen, which can include chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

Both treatments can have serious side effects, like infections, organ failure and even death. They are conducted in order to destroy the patient’s unhealthy bone marrow and heavily suppress their immune system, which allows the transplant to properly integrate.

If the treatment is successful, the transplanted cells will trigger an immune reaction against any residual cancer cells, helping clear them in what’s called a graft-versus-tumour effect.

But things can go awry. In some cases, the donor’s transplanted immune cells may start to recognize the recipient’s body as foreign and attack it, leading to graft-versus-host disease.

Graft-versus-host disease can affect the skin, the intestines and the liver. In some cases, it can even be life-threatening.

Not a treatment for HIV

Due to its high risk, researchers from the three HIV-remission studies have repeatedly cautioned that HSC transplants should not be seen as a treatment for HIV, which can be well managed with anti-retroviral treatment.

Researchers across the world are still looking for a cure or vaccine for the virus.

Circovirus involved in human hepatitis: Study

Post author By Pragya sharma
Post date February 23, 2023
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Circoviruses are a family of small, highly resistant DNA viruses that were initially identified in 1974 in various animal species, where they can cause respiratory, renal, dermatological and reproductive problems. HCirV-1 is a novel virus that is distant from known animal circoviruses.

Scientists from the Institut Pasteur, Necker-Enfants Malades Hospital (AP-HP), Inserm in the Imagine Institute, Universite Paris Cite and the Alfort National Veterinary School (EnvA) have identified a previously unknown species of circovirus, provisionally named human circovirus 1 (HCirV-1).

Circoviruses are a family of small, highly resistant DNA viruses that were initially identified in 1974 in various animal species, where they can cause respiratory, renal, dermatological and reproductive problems. HCirV-1 is a novel virus that is distant from known animal circoviruses. It was shown to be implicated in damage to the liver of a patient undergoing immunosuppressive treatment. This discovery of the first circovirus in humans, linked to hepatitis, was published in the journal Emerging Infectious Diseases on January 3, 2023.

Although the transmission of animal viruses to humans is regularly reported in the scientific literature, it is rare for a novel virus to be identified in a patient in Europe. But as part of a recent study, scientists and physicians have identified the first circovirus involved in human hepatitis. “The patient had unexplained chronic hepatitis, with few symptoms. She had received a heart-lung transplant 17 years earlier and had been monitored regularly since. We had access to a large number of samples over several years and were therefore able to identify this novel virus, which was completely unexpected,” explains Marc Eloit, last author of the study, Head of the Institut Pasteur’s Pathogen Discovery laboratory and a Professor of Virology at the Alfort National Veterinary School (EnvA). His laboratory specializes in the identification of pathogens in patients suspected of severe infection of unknown cause.

In March 2022, in collaboration with the Department of Clinical Microbiology at Necker-Enfants Malades Hospital (AP-HP), the pathological tissue samples of this 61-year-old female patient receiving immunosuppressive treatment, whose hepatitis had no identifiable cause, were sequenced to search for microbial sequences. The RNA (ribonucleic acid) sequences extracted from the tissues were analyzed and compared with those of known microbes. “The aim is to identify sequences of interest among all the sequences obtained, which is like searching for a needle in a haystack!” continues the scientist Marc Eloit. These thousands of RNA sequences were analyzed in parallel using mNGS (metagenomic next-generation sequencing) high-throughput sequencing techniques and sophisticated algorithms. After ruling out common etiologies, the analysis led to the identification of a previously unknown species of circovirus, provisionally named human circovirus 1 (HCirV-1). No other viral or bacterial sequence was found.

The involvement of HCirV-1 in the hepatitis was then demonstrated by analyzing samples taken from the patient in previous years as part of her post-transplant treatment. The results showed that the HCirV-1 viral genome was undetectable in the blood samples from 2017 to 2019, then that its concentration peaked in September 2021. Viral replication in liver cells was demonstrated (2 to 3% of liver cells were infected), pointing to the role of HCirV-1 in liver damage: once the virus has used the resources in the liver cell to replicate, it destroys the cell.

From November 2021 onwards, following antiviral treatment, the patient’s liver enzymes returned to normal levels, indicating the end of hepatic cytolysis.

Diagnosing hepatitis of unknown etiology remains a major challenge, as shown by the cases of acute hepatitis reported in children in the United Kingdom and Ireland last April and signaled by WHO. “We need to know the cause of the hepatitis, and especially whether or not it is viral, to be able to offer suitable treatment and monitor patients effectively. The identification of this novel virus that is pathogenic in humans, and the development of a test that can be performed by any hospital laboratory, offers a new tool for diagnosing and monitoring patients with hepatitis,” stresses Anne Jamet from the Department of Clinical Microbiology at Necker-Enfants Malades Hospital (AP-HP), who is also affiliated with Inserm and co-last author of the study.

Although some circoviruses are pathogenic for animals and vaccines can be administered, especially in pigs, this is the first known circovirus to be pathogenic for humans. The patient’s symptoms remained mild; the virus was able to be identified because she was being closely monitored following her combined transplant. The origin of the virus — whether it is circulating in humans or of animal origin — has yet to be identified, and the source of infection (contact, food, etc.) remains unknown. Following their discovery, the scientists developed a specific PCR test that is now available for etiological diagnosis of hepatitis of unknown origin. A serological test is also being developed.

“These results show the value of this type of sequencing analysis in identifying novel or unexpected pathogens. It is always important for clinicians to know whether or not an infection is viral so that they can adapt the treatment accordingly. It is also crucial to be able to identify a novel pathogen when an infection remains unexplained and to develop a diagnostic test, because any new case of human infection with an emerging pathogen may potentially signal the start of an outbreak,” concludes Marc Eloit. The test is available for the medical community and can now be easily performed for other cases of unexplained hepatitis.

Exam anxiety: 6 ways students can ghost negativity

Post author By Pragya sharma
Post date February 22, 2023
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Exam anxiety frequently has a negative impact on your academic achievement. Here are 6 ways students can ghost negativity.

Examination anxiety limits your outlook on life, your academic or professional performance, as well as how you live your daily life since your body starts to feel anxious weeks before the exam and it reaches a high on the day of the exam. Unfortunately, exam anxiety frequently has a negative impact on your academic achievement.

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Kanchan Rai, Emotional and Mental Wellbeing Coach and Founder of Let Us Talk, suggested some tips to keep the anxiety at a bay:

1. Banish all negative energy

Stop what you are doing and clear your mind if you feel like you are brewing a storm of unfavorable thoughts. Permit yourself to fantasize a little and picture yourself relaxing with close pals. Wait until you feel the tension dissipate before returning to studies.

2. Make a plan and stick to it

You can make a plan for studying as soon as you are aware that an exam will soon be upon you. Create a plan for the actual exam as soon as you receive your exam paper. Don’t wait until the last minute to study for a test; the stress you put on yourself and the late night will make you more anxious, and you won’t remember much.

3. Psychological need

It is true that students occasionally put off attending to their physical needs in order to study for an exam. keep up healthy eating and sleeping routines. A student who is hungry and exhausted is likely to perform worse on an exam than one who is well-rested and fed. Exercise frequently, and after you have thoroughly prepared for the exam, relax.

4. Study a little earlier

Studying gradually over time is considerably more beneficial than cramming everything in at once. Additionally, spending time studying in the same or nearby locations as your test can aid in your ability to retain the material when it comes time to take the test.

5. Explore relaxation practices

To be calm and confident both before and during the test, practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, relaxing each muscle one at a time, or closing your eyes and visualizing a positive outcome.

6. Focus more on discipline

Better plans, goals and interim practice help you find a way to address more discipline. The approach of focus goals builds you to access and get achievements. Lack of motivation also comes from imbalance study routine.

Adenovirus cases spike in West Bengal: Symptoms, treatment and precautions

Post author By Pragya sharma
Post date February 21, 2023
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Adenovirus: Adenovirus causes mild cold or flu-like illness which can affect people of all ages, according to US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Bengal health authorities have been asked to be vigilant after the state recorded a big spike in adenovirus cases that has led to pediatric wards in state-run and private hospitals filling up fast. Health officials say at least 32 per cent of samples sent to the National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases (ICMR-NICED) in Kolkata since January have tested positive for the virus. Two children – a six-month-old boy and 2.5-year-old girl – died Sunday, though the cause of deaths has not yet been formally identified as the adenovirus, which causes a mild cold, or flu-like, illness that can affect people of all ages.

Symptoms:

Infected people may have relatively mild symptoms like a cold or flu, a fever, and a sore throat, or acute bronchitis, pneumonia, conjunctivitis and acute gastroenteritis, which is an inflammation of stomach. Adenovirus can cause mild and severe illnesses but the latter is relatively uncommon. People with weak immune systems, existing respiratory or cardiac diseases are at higher risk of developing severe illness from adenovirus.

Transmission:

The virus is usually transmitted by physical contact with an infected person, the United States’ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said. It can also be spread through the air (via coughs and sneezes) or a patient’s stool; for example, while changing diapers.

Treatment:

There is currently no specific course of treatment or approved antiviral medication. Since most cases are mild, they are managed by pain-killlers or medication to manage symptoms.

Doctors suggest the best way to tackle the infection is prevention. Steps to avoid getting infected include avoiding touching your eyes, nose or mouth with contaminated hands and to regularly use soap or sanitiser to wash your hands.

COVID-19 infection increases diabetes risk: Research

Post author By Pragya sharma
Post date February 20, 2023
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Diabetes disrupts normal metabolism and metabolic processes, preventing the pancreas from producing enough insulin, a hormone that helps regulate blood levels of glucose and amino acids.

Those who have undergone COVID-19 have a higher risk of having new-onset diabetes, which is the main cause of cardiovascular disease, according to research from Cedars-Smidt Sinai’s Heart Center.

The findings, published in the journal JAMA Network Open, also suggest that the risk of Type 2 diabetes appears lower in individuals who were already vaccinated against COVID-19 by the time they were infected.

“Our results verify that the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes after a COVID-19 infection was not just an early observation but, in fact, a real risk that has, unfortunately, persisted through the Omicron era,” said Alan Kwan, MD, first and corresponding author of the study and a cardiovascular physician in the Smidt Heart Institute at Cedars-Sinai.

The trend, Kwan says, is concerning because most people in the United States will eventually experience a COVID-19 infection. “This research study helps us understand–and better prepare for–the post-COVID-19 era of cardiovascular risk,” Kwan said.

To determine the rising rates of diabetes, investigators evaluated medical records from 23,709 adult patients who had at least one documented COVID-19 infection and were treated within the Cedars-Sinai Health System in Los Angeles from 2020-2022. The average patient was 47 years old, and 54% of subjects were female.

Within the study time frame:

– The combined risk of Type 2 diabetes after COVID-19 exposure–accounting for both vaccinated and unvaccinated patients–was 2.1%, with 70% occurring after COVID-19 infection versus 30% happening prior to COVID-19 exposure.

– The risk of Type 2 diabetes after COVID-19 exposure for unvaccinated patients was 2.7%, with 74% occurring after COVID-19 infection versus 26% happening prior to COVID-19 exposure.

– The risk of Type 2 diabetes after COVID-19 exposure for vaccinated patients was 1.0%, with 51% occurring after COVID-19 infection versus 49% happening prior to COVID-19 exposure.

“These results suggest that COVID-19 vaccination prior to infection may provide a protective effect against diabetes risk,” said Kwan. “Although further studies are needed to validate this hypothesis, we remain steadfast in our belief that COVID-19 vaccination remains an important tool in protecting against COVID-19 and the still-uncertain risks that people may experience during the post-infection period.”

Susan Cheng, MD, MPH, senior author of the study, professor of Cardiology, and director for Cardiovascular Population Sciences in the Smidt Heart Institute, says these findings broaden the medical field’s understanding of the effects of COVID-19 on the body, while simultaneously unearthing yet-to-be-answered questions.

“Although we don’t yet know for certain, the trends and patterns that we see in the data suggest that COVID-19 infection could be acting in certain settings like a disease accelerator, amplifying risk for a diagnosis that individuals might have otherwise received later in life,” said Cheng, the Erika J. Glazer Chair in Women’s Cardiovascular Health and Population Science. “So, it could be that instead of being diagnosed with diabetes by age 65, a person with preexisting risk for diabetes might–after a COVID-19 infection–be more likely to develop diabetes by age 45 or 55.”

Diabetes disrupts normal metabolism and metabolic processes, preventing the pancreas from producing enough insulin, a hormone that helps regulate blood levels of glucose and amino acids. Because diabetes can damage vital organs and blood vessels, people with diabetes are at higher risk for heart attack and stroke.

The disease affects an estimated 26 million people in the United States.

This research, Kwan says, is one piece of the puzzle that will help researchers understand how to prevent metabolic as well as cardiovascular disease risk in the future.

“As we learn how to live with COVID-19, we also have to be prepared to recognize and treat the various conditions linked to its aftereffects,” said Kwan. “Our ultimate goal–with every research study we conduct–is to find ways to keep people healthy and able to engage in their everyday activities and lives.”

Health ministry to organise ‘Chintan Shivir’ to explore ways to build trust on Indian drugs

Post author By Pragya sharma
Post date February 18, 2023
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Synopsis

“The aim is to build trust and confidence on the quality of Indian drugs, cosmetics and medical devices in the domestic and global markets.”

The Union Health Ministry will organise a two-day ‘Chintan Shivir’ from February 26 to explore ways to build trust on Indian drugs, cosmetics and medical devices in domestic and export markets and strengthen the regulations to ensure their quality, officials said on Tuesday. The Chintan Shivir on ‘Drugs: Quality Regulations and Enforcement’ holds significance against the backdrop of questions being raised about the quality of some Indian drugs amid instances of Global Pharma Healthcare recalling entire lots of eye drop linked to vision loss in the US and India-made cough syrups being linked to children deaths in Gambia and Uzbekistan.

At the two-day event to be organised in collaboration with the Department of Pharmaceuticals in Hyderabad, experts and officials will review the predictability, transparency and accountability in the regulation of quality of drugs, ensure compliance to Indian pharmacopoeia standards and develop robust network for pharmacovigilance and materiovigilance programmes, the officials said.

The event will also see introduction of digital tools for uniform and effective regulation.

“The aim is to build trust and confidence on the quality of Indian drugs, cosmetics and medical devices in the domestic and global markets.

“Experts will also deliberate on effective enforcement at the field level for ensuring quality, safety and efficacy till the last mile. Discussions will focus on the present enforcement mechanism in place to address spurious, adulterated and substandard drugs, and the necessity for greater coordination between the states and the Centre in this regard and the issues and challenges in enforcement,” an official said.

The shivir will also deliberate on creation of a unified IT platform for all regulatory activities such as an online National Drug Licensing Portal (NDLS).

The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) is the regulatory authority and under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act and rules made thereunder, it is responsible for approval of new drugs, conduct of clinical trials, control over the quality of imported drugs in the country and coordination of the activities of State Drug Control Organizations by providing expert advice with a view of bringing about the uniformity in the enforcement of the said Act, the official explained.

The Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 and rules made thereunder have entrusted various responsibilities to Central and state regulators for regulation of drugs and cosmetics. It envisages uniform implementation of the provisions of the Act and rules for ensuring the safety, rights and wellbeing of patients by regulating the drugs and cosmetics.

Organ damage persists in 59% of long Covid patients a year after diagnosis: Study

Post author By Pragya sharma
Post date February 16, 2023
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Scientists have found that organ damage persisted in 59 per cent of long Covid patients a year after initial symptoms, even in those not severely affected when first diagnosed with the virus, according to a new study.

Scientists have found that organ damage persisted in 59 per cent of long Covid patients a year after initial symptoms, even in those not severely affected when first diagnosed with the virus, according to a new study. The study also found that 29 per cent of patients with long COVID had multi-organ impairment, with persistent symptoms and reduced function at six and twelve months, it said.

The comprehensive study of organ impairment in long COVID patients over 12 months focused on patients reporting extreme breathlessness, cognitive dysfunction and poor health-related quality of life, it said.

According to the study, of the 536 patients who were studied, 13 per cent were hospitalised when first diagnosed with COVID-19, with 32 per cent of people taking part in the study being healthcare workers.

The study found that of the 536 patients, 331, or 62 per cent, were identified with organ impairment six months after their initial diagnosis. It is published in the Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine.

These patients were followed up six months later with a 40-minute multi-organ MRI scan (Perspectum’s CoverScan), analysed in Oxford, the study said.

“Symptoms were common at six and twelve months and associated with female gender, younger age and single organ impairment,” said Amitava Banerjee, Professor of Clinical Data Science at the UCL Institute of Health Informatics, UK.

The study reported a reduction in symptoms between six and 12 months, it said. Extreme breathlessness came down from being reported in 38 per cent of the patients to 30 per cent of patients, the study said, while cognitive dysfunction came down from 48 per cent to 38 per cent.

Poor health-related quality of life came down from 57 per cent to 45 per cent of patients, the study said.

“Several studies confirm persistence of symptoms in individuals with long COVID up to one year.

“We now add that three in five people with long COVID have impairment in at least one organ, and one in four have impairment in two or more organs, in some cases without symptoms,” said Banerjee.

“Impact on quality of life and time off work, particularly in healthcare workers, is a major concern for individuals, health systems and economies.

“Many healthcare workers in our study had no prior illness, but of 172 such participants, 19 were still symptomatic at follow-up and off work at a median of 180 days,” said Banerjee.

The underlying mechanisms of long COVID remain elusive, said the researchers, who did not find evidence by symptoms, blood investigations or MRI to clearly define long COVID subtypes, the study said.

They said that future research must consider associations between symptoms, multi-organ impairment and function in larger cohorts.

“Organ impairment in long COVID has implications for symptoms, quality of life and longer-term health, signalling the need for prevention and integrated care for long COVID patients,” said Banerjee.