Inequalities in health have existed for many decades and have led to unjust consequences in morbidity and mortality. These have become even more apparent during the COVID-19 pandemic with individuals from black and minority ethnic groups, poorer socioeconomic backgrounds, urban and rurally deprived locations, and vulnerable groups of society suffering the full force of its effects. This review is highlighting the current disparities that exist within different societies, that subsequently demonstrate COVID-19, does in fact, discriminate against disadvantaged individuals. Also explored in detail are the measures that can and should be taken to improve equality and provide equitable distribution of healthcare resources amongst underprivileged communities.

Introduction Abnormal liver function tests (LFTs) in pregnancy require proper interpretation in order to avoid pitfalls in the diagnosis. The underlying disorder can have a significant effect on the outcome of both mother and foetus. The present study was done with the objective to study the clinical profile, incidence and possible causes of derangements of liver function tests. Material and Method Eighty pregnant women with abnormal liver dysfunction were studied prospectively. Women with chronic liver disease and drug-induced abnormal liver function test were excluded. All available LFTs including LDH were studied along with some more definitive tests to aid identification of underlying cause. Foetomaternal outcome was noted in all. Result The incidence of abnormal LFT was 0.9 %. 13/80 (16.75 %) women had liver disorder not specific to pregnancy, whereas 67/80 (83.25 %) women had pregnancyspecific liver dysfunction. Of these, 65(81.25 %) women 123 with liver dysfunction had pre-eclampsia including 11 (13.75 %) with HELLP and six women with eclampsia. 48/65 (60 %) women had pre-eclampsia in the absence of HELLP syndrome or eclampsia.

Although advances in knowledge and technology have improved outcomes in surgical cardiac patients over the last decade, complications following cardiac operations still remain to be potentially fatal. Gastrointestinal complications, in particular, tend to have high rates of reintervention and mortality following cardiac surgery, with ischemia and hemorrhage being two of the commonest underlying causes. The intention of this review is to identify which risk factors play important roles in predisposing patients to such complications and to gain better insight into the pathogenesis of the sequelae. Furthermore, strategies for prevention have been discussed to educate and increase awareness of how adverse cardiac surgical outcomes can be minimized.

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Background: Vegetarianism is found in all geographic areas, they may have lower B-12 levels than nonvegetarian; problem could be graver in elderly. This study intended to recognise geriatric individuals with B-12 deficiency so as to save them from anaemia, dementia & neuropsychiatric disturbances by timely recommendations for supplementation. Methods: Current study was conducted on 200 healthy attendants divided in to two groups-A comprised of 100 vegetarian and B of 100 nonvegetarian geriatric individuals (> 60yrs.), they had no previous chronic disease and an attempt was made to exclude diabetes mellitus, hypertension, chronic gastritis, hypoplastic & aplastic anaemia. Those with history of alcohol intake, PPI therapy & regular vitamin supplementation were excluded. Complete clinical examination and routine blood tests were done. Serum cobalamin level was determined by ACCU-BIND ELISA Microwells method. Results: Total of 58 vegetarians were found to be B-12 deficient compared to 42 normal (>350pg/ml) this was statistically significant. Out of 100 nonvegetarian 48 were deficient while 52 had normal levels this too was statistically significant. On comparing the vegetarians and non vegetarian groups significant result was obtained (p <0.01). When different age groups were statistically compared insignificant result was obtained, same was true for gender distribution. Statistically significant result was obtained on comparing vegetarian Vs nonvegetarian group. Conclusions: Irrespective of the dietary habit B-12 deficiency is prevalent in elderly, as 58% of vegetarian & 48% of nonvegetarian were found B-12 deficient, detailed dietary analysis revealed that majority of them consumed nonvegetarian food only occasionally. No significant effect of increasing age & gender was found on B-12 levels in either group. Every elderly vegetarian or non vegetarian irrespective of gender should get their B-12 levels checked & if found low should receive B-12 supplement.

Sudden cardiac death is an uncommon but yet catastrophic event, which can occur in neonates and young children. Although extensive research has been carried out assessing the underlying causes, there still remains a degree of uncertainty around this area. Congenital heart disease (CHD) is one known cause of sudden cardiac death in children, the aetiology of which embraces virally induced mechanisms, genetic susceptibility, drug-induced, and maternal factors. Screening tools and investigations including electrocardiograms and echocardiograms alongside a concise history taking and physical examination can be used to identify the potential cardiovascular risk factors of sudden death. This review has comprehensively studied the causes and risk factors for sudden cardiac death in children with CHD and provides a collation and summary of the evidence available so far underpinning the complex link between the two. Moreover, current screening and prevention methods are discussed in detail in order to increase awareness and understanding of how we can improve patient outcomes.

ABSTRACT:INTRODUCTION:

The marine environment represents a largely unexplored source of new microbes (bacteria, fungi, microalgae-cyanobacteria) that are potent producers of bioactive peptides. Here, we have discussed some novel peptides isolated from marine species exhibiting antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, antiprotozoal activities. Therefore, marine peptides have attracted a great deal of attention due to their potential effects in promoting health and reducing disease. We have also discussed the extraction and commercial exploitation of peptides to become a possible future drug. Advancements in isolated techniques have allowed us easy access of less explored environment. Here, we summarize the future aim and scope of commercial application and production of microbial peptides from marine sources.