Search

The paper employed a geo-economics approach to investigate the twofold Chinese geopolitical intentions behind the execution of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor. China financed the CPEC project to overcome energy security and terrorism in Xinjiang. The paper examines the correlation between economic development and security objectives by answering the following key questions. (a) Whether CPEC has the potential to alleviate China's energy and security dilemma? (b) To what extent CPEC can act as a lever to achieve security interests? The paper argues that geopolitical and geo-security concerns motivate Chinese leadership to use the geo-economics approach. The $65 billion investment in the construction of CPEC has mammoth potential to revitalize the Chinese dream to achieve security through economic and infrastructure development. For Beijing, infrastructure and economic development along the corridor belt would guarantee peace and security in Xinjiang and an overland route of CPEC for energy supplies will circumvent the Malacca dilemma alleviating the threat to the Chinese energy lifeline., Author(s): Mehmood Hussain [sup.1] Author Affiliations: (1) grid.413058.b, 0000 0001 0699 3419, Department of International Relations, University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, , Muzaffarabad, Pakistan Introduction The prevailing view in [...]

Objective: To assess the role of non-pharmacological interventions in relieving Tension-type headache. Study Design: Quasi experimental study Place and Duration of Study: Neurology department, Pak Emirates Military Hospital, Rawalpindi Pakistan, from Dec 2020 to May 2021. Methodology: Tension-Type Headache was diagnosed by physician using the International Classification of Headache Disorders II (ICHD-II). Patients were randomized into two groups, Group-A was intervention Group and Group-B was the control group. Both the groups were folowed at 14 and 30 days. Visual analogue pain (VAP) scale and Headache Intensity Test 6 (HIT) was applied to evaluate the intensity of headache. Results: Out of 600 patients with chronic daily headaches, 210(34%) patients had Tension-type headache. The mean age of these females was 35.4± 9.342 years. A total of 112(53%) were working, 172(81.9%) were married. In terms of level of education, 68(32.4%) had done matriculation, 29(13.8%) had done FSc. and 113(53.8%) had completed higher education. At 28 days post intervention, there was significant improvement in Headache Impact Test (HIT) score (43.26±4.48 vs 49.81±5.52, pvalue <0.05) and visual analogue pain scale (3.19±1.481 vs 4.30±2.052, p-value <0.05), in Groups A and B respectively. Conclusion: There was improvement in intensity of mild to moderate Tension-type headache after nonpharmacological intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article argues that China is advancing its relations with Iran and Pakistan based on pragmatic balancing, a key component of soft balancing, to safeguard and advance national self‐interest. China's relationship with Pakistan is based on shared interests to counter the Indian hegemony in South Asia and end the Chinese energy security dilemma through an overland route of the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The bilateral relationship has enhanced and expanded over the years, despite steep transformations in regional geopolitics. Meanwhile, abundant Iranian energy reserves and Tehran's willingness to support China against the United States in the Middle East encouraged the Chinese leadership to sign a strategic deal with no significant ramifications for Pakistan and CPEC. The fair‐weather friendship between China and Iran remains limited in scope, often suspending cooperation in various domains, including energy and defense. Nonetheless, an all‐weather friendship between China and Pakistan sustained the collaboration of security, economy, and diplomacy, meticulously representing sincerity and cordiality. Related Articles: Bishwakarma, Jham Kumar, and Zongshan Hu. 2021. "Problems and Prospects for the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC)." Politics & Policy 50(1): 154–79. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12443. Singh, Amit, and Amit Sarwal. 2017. "Paraspara, Encounters, and Confluences: India's Soft Power Objective in the Indo‐Pacific Region." Politics & Policy 45(5): 733–61. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12222. Zaidi, Syed Muhammad Saad. 2020. "American Global Supremacy under Threat? The Chinese Factor." Politics & Policy 49(2): 502–28. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12402. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To study the effect of patient understanding of diabetes self-care on glycemic control. Study Design: Hospital-based cross-sectional analytical study. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Medicine, Pak Emirates Military Hospital, Rawalpindi Pakistan, from Jan to Jul 2019. Methodology: A standardized questionnaire comprising nine questions to gauge understanding of diabetes self-care was applied to 216 patients with Diabetes Mellitus (DM) at Pak Emirates Military Hospital, Rawalpindi. Linear regression analysis was conducted to examine the effect of diabetes-related self-care understanding on glycemic control. Results: 138 patients were males (64%) and 78 females (36%) with a mean age of 40 ± 8 years (range: 18-68 years). The mean duration of having diabetes mellitus was 12 ± 2 years. Patients with a high score on the self-care understanding questionnaire had better average glycemic control than those with lower scores. Conclusion: Patients' understanding of self-care for diabetes has a significant impact on their glycemic control. This asks physicians to educate patients about their role in disease management for better clinical outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate various demographic, clinical, radiological and hematological manifestations of moderate to critical coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and to assess its complications and outcomes in the Pakistani population. Study Design: Retrospective observational study. Place and Duration of Study: Pak Emirates Military Hospital, Rawalpindi, from Apr to Jul 2020. Methodology: Demographic, clinical, radiological and hematological data of 600 consecutive patients were retrieved and analyzed from hospital registry. Results: Overall, 449 (74.8%) patients had at least 1 comorbidity, diabetes mellitus being commonest; 228 (38%) [95% CI, 34.1- 42%]. The most common symptoms were cough; 451 (75.2%), fever; 450 (75%) and shortness of breath; 419 (69.8%). At presentation, 222 (37%) patients had moderate disease, 296 (49.3%) severe and 82 (12.7%) had critical disease. At admission, 277 (46.2%) patients required respiratory support and further 185 (30.8%) patients required treatment escalation later on correlated with disease severity and age (p<0.001). A total of 92 (15.3%) patients died out of which 38 (21.2%) were on noninvasive ventilation and 36 (66.6%) on invasive ventilation, (p<0.001). Overall survival (OS) was 84.7%; log rank <0.001. Mortality was highest in critical disease, 72 (31.3%) (p<0.001). A majority of patients, 440 (73.3%) developed complications, the most common being Cytokine release storm (CRS); 57.5% respiratory failure; 43.8% and Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS); 38.8%. Thrombotic events occurred in 106 (17.6%). Conclusion: Majority of patients with moderate to severe COVID-19 had comorbidities and ended up in various complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess the knowledge, attitude and practice of fresh dental graduates of Karachi regarding pursuing research. Study type, settings & duration: A cross sectional study conducted at six randomly selected dental colleges from 10 dental Colleges (4 Government and 6 Private) in the city during three months. Methodology: After taking informed written consent 150 participants were enrolled. A predesigned questionnaire was filled. Questionnaire comprised of three parts; first part composed of demographic details, second part comprised of questions to assess the knowledge about research while the third part comprised of questions to evaluate the practices of dental students regarding research. Results: Out of 150 study participants 112 (74.7%) expressed a desire to conduct research in future, 22 (14.7%) were not interested, whereas, 16 (10.7%) were uncertain about carrying out research work in future. Females were found more motivated to conduct research in their future as compared to male study participants. One hundred and three (68.7%) participants did not know how to write a research proposal, whereas, 47 (31.3%) claimed to know about writing a research proposal. A large majority i.e. 69 (46%) participants reported both institutional and personal obstacles preventing them from pursuing research, 43 (28.7%) respondents reported institutional barriers, whereas, 38 (25.3%) participants reported personal reasons to be the major obstacles in conducting research. Conclusion: Although, a high percentage of the participants expressed their desire for carrying out research but due to inadequate knowledge regarding research methodology and lack of supervision, desired results could not be achieved. Significant efforts need to be made to improve the research culture in the institutions so as to facilitate students and fresh graduates in conducting research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To see the prevalence of an additional root in permanent mandibular first molars in patients presenting for dental checkup for root canal treatment. METHODOLOGY: This observational study was carried out at Department of Endodontics, Hamdard University Dental Hospital, Karachi from June 2016 to May 2017. Sample size was Eight hundred and three permanent mandibular first molars from 568 females and 235 males were examined over a period of 1 year. Presence of a third root was revealed by diagnostic periapical radiographs and the comparison between males and females and between the right and left sides of the mandible were recorded. RESULTS: Out of the 803 permanent mandibular first molars that were observed, only 17 were found to have an accessory root. Out of total 803 samples that were being evaluated, only 17 subjects were found to have an extra root with a prevalence of 2.12%. The incidence of extra root was found to be higher in males. CONCLUSION: Though the incidence of radix entomolaris & paramolaris observed among the examined population was quite low, detection of radix is crucial to a successful endodontic treatment. More in depth study and detection methods are required for better identification of this unique anomaly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To determine the procedural errors produced during the conventional root canal treatment and to find out the association of errors with particular teeth. METHODOLOGY: This descriptive observational type study was conducted in Private Teaching Dental Hospital. A total 200 root canal treated teeth were assessed through peri-apical radiographs using non-probability convenient sampling technique. The data was collected from patient record files retrospectively performed by house officers in the duration of 1 year in department of Operative Dentistry. Data analysis was done by using SPSS version 22. Frequency and percentage statistics were used. RESULTS: Out of sample size of 200 patients, 110 (55%) were females and 90 (45%) were males with age range from 10 to 50 years. The most frequently treated tooth was the mandibular right first molar (29.5%) followed by permanent maxillary right first molar(26%). The most frequent tooth to possess an error was the mandibular right first molar (59%), followed by maxillary right first molar (52%). Instrument separation was the most common procedural error 148 (74%), followed by ledge 25 (12.5%). CONCLUSION: The results concluded that instrument separation was the most frequent procedural error and the most frequent tooth to possess an error was the mandibular right first molar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the quality of intraoral periapical radiographs (IOPA) taken by dental assistants in the department of operative dentistry. METHODOLOGY: The study design was cross-sectional descriptive type, non-probability convenient sampling technique was used to achieve the calculated sample size. A total of 100 periapical radiographs were collected for evaluation from department of operative dentistry at Hamdard University Dental Hospital, Karachi. Pre, intra and post-operative radiographs were evaluated taken during endodontic therapy. National Radiological Protection Board recommended three point quality scale was used to analyze the IOPA radiographs into excellent, acceptable or unacceptable. The targets were set according to the "Guidance Notes for Dental Practitioners on the Safe Use of X-ray Equipment" recommendations. RESULTS: A total 100 radiographs were evaluated, 32% were classified as excellent, 45% diagnostically acceptable and 23% of the radiographs diagnostically unacceptable. Rejection rate analysis showed that incorrect film positioning was the most frequent fault resulting in missing or obscured coronal/apical area being the cause in 50% cases. CONCLUSION: It has been concluded that frequent quality assessment and monitoring of dental team and their training in dental radiography would help in achieving gold standards. Furthermore, following standard guidelines increase the quality of the radiographs and enhance safety practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Refractive error is a state in which parallel rays of light are not being focused at retina while accommodation is at rest. Spectacles and contact lenses are used to correct refractive errors. Uncorrected refractive errors cause asthenopic symptoms, strabismus, amblyopia and even blindness. Purpose: The purpose of this study is to check effects of counseling on spectacles use. We create awareness about importance of spectacles and complications of uncorrected refractive errors. Method: This study was conducted from October 2017 to May 2018 at THQ (Tehsil Head Quarter) Hospital, Shujabad. Visual acuity was checked by using snellens' chart and objective refraction using autorefractometer and retinoscope. Subjective refraction was performed with 1% tropicamide eye drops to dilate the pupils to check detail of fundus examination. A total of 50 subjects whose visual acuity was below 6/6, with normal fundus, previously not using spectacles, were included in the study. Then 25 subjects were counseled with their spectacles. Second group consist of those 25 participants in which counseling was not performed. Follow up of these patients after 15 days to check the effect of counseling comparing the follow up results in counselor and non counselor groups. Results: Out of 50 participants 31 (62%) are males and 19 (38%) are females, 18 (36%) are above 40 years of age which have visual impairement did not use spectacles. 17 individual ((34%) are between 7 to 25 years of age, 15 individuals (30%) are between 25 to 40 years of age. Out of 25 counselor group 14 (56%) participants came on follow up with their spectacles. Out of 25 non counselor group 3 (12%) participants came on follow up with their spectacles. Conclusion: The results of this study shows counseling had better affect on spectacles utilization. Counseling create knowledge and awareness in non spectacle users, and motivate them to use spectacles to relieve from asthenopic symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The idea of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) was revealed by Chinese Premier Li Keqiang in May 2013, and further developments took place in April 2015 withconclusion of $ 46 billion dollars ofinvestment agreementsby the Chinese President, Xi Jinping. The total investment in the CPEC framework reached $ 62 billion dollars. The proposed economic corridor will connect Pakistan ' s portGwadar to the Chinese city of Kashiger through a network of roads, railways, and oil and natural gas pipelines. Apart from roads and railways, special economic zones and industrial parks are part of the project belt. This study determines to conduct a strategic examination of CPEC through SWOT analysis. The following queries were taken into account: what are the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats to mega development projects? Are weaknesses and threats higher than strengths and opportunities? If yes, how can Pakistan and Chinaminimize weaknesses and threats? This study found the following strengths'the geo-strategic significance of Pakistan, the comprehensiveness of CPEC with strong commitment & institutional mechanism and comprehensive counter terrorism operation by Pakistan. Weaknessesinclude: a volatile domestic security situation, the weakness of Gwadarport with regard to generating potential economic incentives, poor governance and lack of consensus, geographical obstacles and lack of transparency. Opportunities include'the emergence of Pakistan ' s new economic hub in Asia and prospects for regional connectivity; prospects for the end ofthe endemic energy crisis, potentials for foreign direct investment, and prospects for cultural connectivity. Threats include: Chabahar port &the India-Afghanistan and Iran nexus, India's clandestine activities to destabilize CPEC, rising expenditure costs and water and gas scarcity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To provide various means of retention in dental prosthesis for cleft patients. Study Design: It was a descriptive type of study. Place and Duration of study: The study was carried out at Hamdard University Dental Hospital, Karachi. Total duration of this study was three years. Materials and Methods: Total 30 patients were selected after taking consent by random sampling technique. The age range varies from 01 month to 45 years. Among 30 patients, 19 were female while 11 were males. Special designed Performa was made and filled by getting all related information from patient/ attendants. Then various treatment options were discussed with the patient or attendant & with mutual consent prosthesis was fabricated utilizing various method of retention. Results: Feeding plate was fabricated for five patients, in which retention is achieved through maximum extension of prosthesis, using elastic band, utilization of favorable undercuts. Conventional removable partial denture was fabricated for 17 patients. Mainly retention was achieved through retainers, considering esthetics maximum number of clasp is incorporated. To get better patient's compliance flexible removable partial denture was fabricated for 03 patients while precision attachment was provided to one patient. Speech bulb prosthesis was fabricated for one patient, its retention was mainly achieved by means of Adam's clasp. Seven patients were provided with fixed prosthesis, in four cases pink porcelain was added in cervical area to further improve esthetics & retention. Mainly due to financial status & poor compliance from the patients, implant supported prosthesis was not provided to any patient. Conclusion: Utilization of various means of retention brings better adaptation of prosthesis in cleft patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to assess the instant relief of dentinal sensitivity by application of toothpaste containing 8% Arginine CaCO3 compound in patients visiting the Department of Periodontology, Hamdard University Dental Hospital. One hundred patients (38 males and 62 females) with age range from 23 to 65 years having history of dentine hypersensitivity were included in this study by random sampling technique. The consent was taken from the patients and dentinal hypersensitivity was evaluated according to the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) index. DH was evaluated by air-blast stimulus. The response of the patient was recorded immediately at the time of air blast. The DH was measured with the help of Visual Analogue Scale (VAS).Then Arginine - CaCO3 was applied with finger on teeth where DH was reported. After one minute DH was measured by using VAS and readings were calculated. After getting data from all selected patients, results were obtained by using SPSS version 16. Out of hundred patients, 25 patients (25%) were reported to had mild sensitivity and out of 25 patients 12(48%) had instant relief from sensitivity. Thirty five (35%) patients had moderate sensitivity and out of 35 patients, 05(14.28%) observed instant relief from DH whereas 40(40%) patients had severe sensitivity and out of 40 patients only 01(2.5%) had instant relief from DH. The results were statistically analyzed, and it was found that Arginine-CaCO3 application markedly decreases the dentinal sensitivity in majority of patients. It is concluded that patients who were having mild DH had more effect in reduction of DH followed moderate and least effect is observed in the patients with severe DH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: (1) To determine the distribution of dry eye cases in different ages, genders and occupational groups. (2) To determine the possible relationship of the dry eye with its risk factors such as environment, systemic diseases and medications. Patients and Methods: A hospital-based descriptive cross-sectional study at Madinah Teaching Hospital, Faisalabad was conducted including 100 diagnosed outdoor patients of age 10 years and above. Tear break-up time (TBUT), Schirmer’s test II and Ocular Surface Disease Index performa (OSDI) was used to make a diagnosis of dry eye. Dry Eye Disease (DED) was defined as TBUT less than 10 seconds, Schirmer’s test II less than 10mm wetting and OSDI score to be 33 or above. Results: The prevalence of dry eye disease increased with age from 4% in age group 10-20 years to 33% in age group 51-60 years. Preponderance of females was found (60%) as compared to males (40%). The prevalence of DED was also higher among house wives, (49%), urban residents (57%) and those exposed to dust (29%). By using Chi-square test male smokers and computer users while females with systemic diseases and those who were using systemic medications significantly associated with a higher risk of DED with a p-value = <0.05. Conclusions: Dry eye is common condition among older age subjects, house wives, urban residents and those exposed to dust. Smoking, computer use, systemic diseases (diabetes mellitus and hypertension) and systemic medications (antihypertensive and hypoglycemic drugs) were significant risk factors for dry eye. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT To determine mean change in oral stereognostic ability score and duration of time taken for sensory perception of edible objects before and after insertion of complete denture in completely edentulous non-denture wearer. The study was conducted at Department of Prosthodontics, Hamdard University Dental Hospital in Karachi-Pakistan. Thirty Patients were enrolled after explaining the procedure. The test was performed after medical, dental history, clinical examination where the subject was seated in an upright position. Test specimen were made from carrots with the help of nickel chromium punches available in six standardized shapes that are: circular, oval, triangle. Square, star and ellipse. For proportion of patients correctly identifying the shape of objects after denture insertion, there was a drastic improvement seen at one month in comparison to baseline for all shape types. Majority of the patients had improved oral stereognostic ability at one month of denture insertion with a signification p-value in all shape types (<0.001) in comparison to pre-scores at baseline. In older edentulous patients, oral stereognostic increases with denture provision. The overall increase in objects identification and masticatory performance takes time from one week to one month. It is recommended to have a denture prosthesis for all edentulous patients as early as the last tooth falls apart. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To observe Quality of Life (QoL) in diabetes mellitus patients after fabrication of immediate dentures. Setting: Department of Prosthodontics in Hamdard University Dental Hospital, Karachi. Period: Two years from October 2011 to September 2013. Methodology: Thirty patients with established diagnoses of diabetes mellitus reported. In this study by purposive non-probability sampling technique. In this study patients were selected, male and female patients were 24 and 6 respectively with the age range of 22- 74 years. After getting consent Questions mention in OHIP-14 were asked from the patients on 1st visit and 2 months later after fabrication of immediate denture to assess the QoL of in these patients. Data was obtained after using SPSS-version 19. For analysis Wilcoxon Signed Ranks Test was applied to get results. Probability level of P< 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: There was marked improvement in different domains of QoL in diabetes mellitus patients after fabrication of immediate dentures, most of the patients were pleased with their prosthesis. Three patients had complained of pain on buccal side which was corrected by trimming the overextended flange of their denture. All patients had improvement in phonetics (P value 0.01), better choice of food (P value 0.00), eating ability (P value 0.01), decrease embarrassment (P value 0.08) and self-assurance (P value 0.025). However, effect of immediate denture on variable like tension was not advantageous having P-value of 0.157. Conclusion: By fabrication of immediate dentures to diabetes mellitus patients, QoL can be markedly improved in such patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was conducted in two tertiary hospitals to observe frequency & duration of tooth brushing & their relation with incidence of caries, gingivitis & sensitivity. In this study total 1200 patients were selected randomly reported to Department of Operative Dentistry of both institutes. The duration of study was one year. Out of these 1200 patients 755 (62.91%) were male and 445 (37.08%) were female with age range from 15-74 years. All patients were divided into three groups on the basis of their age, in group 1 age range was 15-25 years, in group 2 age range was 26-50 years while group 3included patients of above 50 years. After taking consent from the patients a self designed questionnaire was used to get necessary details. Data compiling and statistical analysis was done by using SPSS - 20 & results were obtained. Brushing frequency and duration of brushing is better in group 2 followed by group 1 & 3 respectively. The rate of caries and gingivitis is also significantly higher in group 2 (50.8% & 40.4%) followed by group 1 (21.6% & 15%) and group 3 (1.8% & 2.5%) respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rehabilitation of worn dentitions is a big challenge. To save badly damaged teeth after endodontic treatment, provision of post and core restoration is very effective treatment option. The aim of this study was to observe common complications associated with provision of post and core treatment for the badly damage tooth. In this study 95 patients reported to Oral Diagnostic Departments of Hamdard University Dental Hospital (HUDH), Karachi and Nishtar Institute of Dentistry (NID), Multan were randomly selected. Sixty two females and thirty three males were included in this study with age range from 18-47 years. After taking consent, patients were evaluated by using self designed proforma after six month from provision of post and core restorations. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 16 was used for data analysis to find common complications linked with post and core restorations. The most frequent complain was gingivitis which was reported in 21 patients (22.1%) followed by loss of retention/ requirement of re cementation which was found in 15 (15.7%) patients respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was conducted to observe Quality of Life (QoL) in oral cancer patients after provision of maxillary obturators. This study was carried out in Prosthodontics Department of Hamdard University Dental Hospital, Karachi from October 2009 to September 2013. Thirty two patients were included in this study with age range of 15- 74 years. Twenty five patients were males while seven were females. A Questionnaire based on Oral Health Impact Profile -14 (OHIP-14) was used before provision of the obturator and then 6 months after the obturator provided to assess changes in QoL. Data were collected and statistical analysis was done by using SPSS software. Wilcoxon Signed Ranks Test was applied and results were obtained. Probability level of P<.05 was considered statistically significant. There was marked improvement in quality of life in these patients after provision of obturators. All patients were satisfied with their obturators. Five patients needed minor adjustments in their obturators which were made accordingly. All patients showed significant improvement in speech (P value .025), mastication (P value .0) and self confidence (P value .014). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To provide various means of retention in fabrication of mandibularobturators for patients visited Hamdard University Dental Hospital, Karachi. Study Design: It wasa descriptive type of study. Place and Duration of study: The study was carried out at Hamdard University Dental Hospital, Karachi. Total duration of this study was two years. Materials and Methods: Nine patients were selected by purposive non-probability sampling technique. Aftertaking consent, self designed Proforma was filled. Age ranged from 13-72 years. Six of them weremales and three females. One of them was already using obturator. With the help of obtained information, various means of retention in maxillary obturator were provided. Results: Interim Obturators were fabricated for six patients while definitive obturators were fabricated for three patients. In eight patients conventional means of retention were employed while implant supported obturator was provided for one patient. Seven patients were satisfied with the performance of obturator. In one patient sectional tray was used for impression while in onepatient artificial teeth were arranged by neutral zone technique. Regular follow up was carried outtill one year. Conclusions: Utilization of various means of retention brings better compliance in mandibular defect patients provided with obturators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was conducted to observe quality of life in pediatric patients provided with acrylic removable partial denture visiting Hamdard University Dental Hospital, Karachi. It was a descriptive type of study. The study was carried out in the Department of Prosthodontics, Hamdard University Dental Hospital, Karachi from January 2012 to December 2013. Non probability purposive sampling technique was used. Total 30 patients visited to Prosthodontics Department of Hamdard University Dental Hospital, Karachi for provision of prosthesis were included in this study. Age range varied from 03-14 years, while sixteen were boys and fourteen were girls. Four of them were already denture wearer. Questionnaire based on OHIP-14 was used to evaluate quality of life in these patients. After collection of data, results were tabulated on SPSS. All patients were provided with acrylic removable partial dentures. Regular follow up was maintained and all patients were satisfied with the performance of their prosthesis. Acrylic removable prosthesis can be very effective for oral rehabilitation of pediatric patients when fixed prosthesis is not feasible due to multiple factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess the correlation between medication adherence and control of diabetes. Materials & Methods: This research was conducted as a cross-sectional study. It was scheduled between July 2022 to December 2022 in the medical outpatient department of Combined Military Hospital, Peshawar. Results: 110 individuals were inducted in this study. The mean age across the study sample was 50.25 ± 11.97 years with 58 (52.73%) males and 52 (47.27%) females. The average duration of diabetes across the sample was 6.1 ± 3.69 years. The most common comorbidity among the study population was hypertension, seen in 59 (53.94%) diabetic patients. Among all 110 individuals, only 29 (26.36%) had good glycemic control (HbA1c <7%) with an average glycosylated haemoglobin percentage measuring 8.29% ± 1.59%. According to the MMAS-8 score, 25 (22.73%) patients reported good adherence, 31 (28.18%) reported fair adherence, and the remaining 54 (49.09%) were found to have poor adherence. The average MMAS-8 score was 5.17. A rise of 1 point of MMAS-8 was correlated with a fall of HbA1c by 0.247%. Conclusion: A negative correlation exists between poor anti-diabetic medication adherence and MMAS-8 score. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]