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Open access Review Article | June 15, 2024
From chisels to lasers: a narrative of history of dentistry in the Indo-Pak Subcontinent

Doctor Afeera Rahat

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The research highlights the rich heritage of dentistry in the Indian subcontinent and the diverse influences that have shaped its evolution. The roots of dentistry can be traced back to the inhabitants of the Indo-Pak subcontinent at Mehrgarh where the earliest evidence of dental practices was found. By analyzing the methods of the primitive 'tooth-pullers' to those of modern-day specialists, this study delves deep into the influence of Ayurveda, Unani medicine, colonialism, and global exchanges on the field of dentistry.

The study begins with the analysis of Ayurvedic records which document early dental procedures and the use of herbal remedies for oral diseases. Followed by the exploration of colonialism and the effect of Western medicine on shaping oral health practices. The dual system of healthcare prevailed due to the incorporation of traditional and modern medicine.

Further, the key milestones are discussed. Alongside the developments, the study also discusses the challenges faced in achieving those developments and the initiatives launched that aimed at improving the quality of care provided. Patterns that led to the development of dentistry can be recognized which will help in further improvement.

In conclusion, the transition of dentistry from primitive practices to modern procedures is mainly due to the interaction between tradition and modernization. The findings of the paper underscore the need for improvement in research standards and a greater focus on public health by adopting both, traditional and modern-day medicine.

Open access Original Article | June 15, 2024
Assessment of Vitamin D levels in Infertile Females – A tertiary care hospital experience

Natasha Bushra Natasha bushra, Tahira nasrin Tahira nasrin, asifa sarwar asifa sarwar

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ABSTRACT:

Background:

Vitamin D deficiency emerges as a significant player in shaping reproductive health narratives, weaving its impact into the intricate tapestry of challenges in conception, the emergence of gynecological disorders like uterine leiomyomas and endometriosis, and the nuanced terrain of metabolic and endocrine dimensions in polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). The intricate dance of vitamin D status seems to choreograph a pivotal role in the intricate realm of reproductive physiology, dictating the physiological processes underpinning prevalent gynecological disorders and wielding influence over the trajectory of reproductive success.

Objective:

Our study aims to ascertain the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in the context of female infertility.

Methodology:

The study design employed was cross-sectional, conducted within the Obstetrics and Gynaecology department at Services Hospital Lahore, spanning from May 30, 2021, to November 30, 2021, following ethical approval. A total of 96 women participated in the study after providing informed consent, undergoing serum vitamin D level assessments. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software version 21.

Results:

Within this study, the average age of the participants stood at 29.43±3.35 years, and the mean vitamin D level recorded was 19.03±14.30 ng/ml. Notably, 61 out of the infertile females, constituting 63.54% of the participants, exhibited vitamin D deficiency.

Conclusion:

Our findings indicate that the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in female infertility was determined to be 63.54%.