Bacillus subtilis-derived-exopolysaccharide halts depigmentation and autoimmunity in vitiligo.

Vitiligo has a complex multifactorial etiology involving a T-cell mediated autoimmune response to cutaneous melanocytes. Microbial dysbiosis has been assigned a contributing role in vitiligo etiology. Treating vitiligo can be a challenging task and finding novel treatment approaches is crucial.

Establishing Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery in a Developing Country: A Five-Year Experience at Hayatabad Medical Complex, Pakistan.

Background The adoption of minimally invasive cardiac surgery (MICS) has increased over the past 25 to 30 years, driven by advancements in technology and a growing understanding of its benefits. This study evaluates the outcomes of 144 elective MICS procedures performed between January 2019 and September 2024. Methods Patients underwent various surgical approaches, including upper mini-sternotomy, mini-thoracotomy, and sub-xiphoid access.

Short-Term Surgical Outcomes and Definitive Diagnosis in Patients With Congenital Cardiac Defects: A Single-Center Analysis.

Background With the rising number of children with congenital heart disease (CHD) reaching adulthood, surgical intervention has become a critical aspect of their long-term management. This study presents a six-year overview of early postoperative outcomes and mortality in CHD surgeries at a single center, underscoring advancements and challenges in treating this complex population. Objective As more children with CHD grow into adulthood, we are gaining critical insights from our extensive experience in performing cardiac surgery for this population.

Reliability of the documented blood group in motor vehicle driving license in Kerala, India - A public health concern?

Introduction: Blood groups documented in motor vehicle driving licenses can provide quick information during emergency transfusion requirements and imbibe self-awareness about one's blood group. The tendency of applicants to mention blood groups without verification during the application may result in incorrect documentation of blood groups in their driving license. The study aims to assess the reliability of the blood groups in driving licenses and their association with sociodemographic variables.

Aortic Root Pathologies and Surgical Management: Insights From a Single Surgeon's Experience.

Introduction and objectives The Bentall procedure is a surgical technique designed to address aortic root abnormalities, including issues with the aortic valve, aortic root, and ascending aortic disease. This study aimed to assess the short-term outcomes of 39 patients who underwent the Bentall and concomitant procedures: aortic root enlargement, personalized external aortic root support (PEARS), and Mini-Bentall procedures at a single center. Methodology We conducted a retrospective study involving 39 patients who underwent surgery for aortic root pathologies such as dissection, Marfan syndrome (MFS), bicuspid aortic valve, degenerative disease, and atherosclerosis at our hospital between January 2019 and September 2024.