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Background: Vitamin B12 deficiency is widely prevalent in all age groups which is of major concern. However, there is no valid Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) for dietary vitamin B12 estimation. Hence, we aimed to develop and validate an FFQ for the estimation of dietary intake of Vitamin B12. Materials and Methods: Commonly consumed B12-rich food items were selected from literature and filtered using a market survey. For concordant and discriminant validation, B12 and homocysteine levels were estimated. To establish convergent validity, the Cobalamin Intake in North Indians by Food Frequency Questionnaire (COIN-FFQ) and 72-hour dietary recall (72HrDR) were both administered to the same subjects. The COIN-FFQ was readministered after initial administration for test-retest reliability. Internal consistency of the FFQ was then tested using Cronbach's alpha. Results: We enrolled 115 adults with a mean age and weight of 31.9 ± 8.7 years and 66.0 ± 11.8 kg, respectively. In total, 19.1% were vegetarian. The dietary B12 using COIN-FFQ (n = 60; mean = 4.3 ± 1.8 µg/d) was significantly correlated (r = 0.255; P = 0.049) with serum levels (mean = 120.1 ± 62.6 pmol/L) establishing concordant validity. A significant difference was noted between the dietary, serum B12, and homocysteine levels of vegetarians versus nonvegetarians establishing discriminant validity (mean diff 1.4 (0.5-2.4), P = 0.004; Z-statistic -2.182, P value 0.029, and Z-statistic -2.438; P value 0.015), respectively. FFQ was strongly correlated with 72HrDR and test--retest FFQ (n = 27; r = 0.814, P < 0.001 and r = 0.869, P < 0.001, respectively) establishing convergent validity and test--retest reliability. The internal consistency with Cronbach's alpha was in the acceptable range, 0.631 (n = 115). Conclusion: The newly developed COIN-FFQ is valid and reliable in estimating dietary B12 intake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Preeclampsia is a life-threatening multisystem disorder of pregnancy which has been observed in 2%–10% of pregnancies. The prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency ranges from 15% to 80%. Deficiency of Vitamin D is associated with the development of preeclampsia. This study was done to find out the prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency among preeclamptic/eclamptic and normal pregnant females, to establish Vitamin D deficiency as a causal factor of preeclampsia, and to elucidate the relation between 25 (OH) Vitamin D status and the severe preeclampsia. Materials and Methods: Blood samples were collected from 50 normotensives (controls) and 50 hypertensive pregnant females with preeclampsia/eclampsia (cases), and 25 (OH) Vitamin D level was measured by chemiluminescence Immunoassay. Results: Among the preeclamptic/eclamptic group, 32 (64%) were noted with Vitamin D deficiency and 18 (36%) with Vitamin D insufficiency. In the control group, 30 (60%) pregnant women showed Vitamin D deficiency, 19 (38%) with Vitamin D insufficiency, and a sufficient level of Vitamin D was observed in one woman (2%). Conclusion: Although it is difficult to demonstrate the correlation between Vitamin D levels and preeclampsia, there is a widespread global prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy. Hence, Vitamin D supplementation can be included routinely in the antenatal care program in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-segmental vitiligo (NSV) is an autoimmune disorder due to the destruction of melanocytes, where cytokines like interleukin 17 (IL-17) and biomolecules like vitamin D play a theoretical role in pathogenesis. Previous studies in this regard yielded inconsistent results. This study aimed to compare the serum levels of IL-17 and vitamin D between NSV patients and healthy controls and to know the association of these biomarkers with disease activity and extent. This was a case-control study including adult patients with NSV and age and gender-matched healthy controls. Cases and controls with conditions likely to alter the serum levels of IL-17 and vitamin D were excluded. Serum levels of IL-17 were estimated by ELISA and vitamin D levels by chemiluminescence assay. 42 adult patients of NSV and 42 age and sex-matched healthy controls were recruited over a period of eighteen months. The mean value of serum vitamin D levels in the control group was 19.053 ± 5.340 ng/ml, whereas in the case group, it was 17.336 ± 6.931 ng/ml (P > 0.05). The mean value of serum IL-17 levels in the control group was 199.824 ± 51.244 pg/ml and 213.566 ± 69.018 pg/ml in the case group (P > 0.05). These molecules did not show any association with the disease activity and extent. In contrast to the previous studies, we could not establish the role of IL-17 in the pathogenesis of vitiligo. Furthermore, we could not find any association between vitamin D and vitiligo in our study, even though there is an inconsistent association between the two in the available literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: HIV fourth-generation assay, designed for the detection of HIV p24 antigen along with anti-HIV antibodies of both immunoglobulin M and immunoglobulin G type against HIV 1 and HIV 2 viral antigens, have helped in the early detection of HIV infection and supports in minimizing the transmission risk in the acute phase of infection. The objective of this study was to evaluate the analytical and clinical performance of HIV fourth-generation assay based on enhanced chemiluminescence technology. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The analytical performance of the assay was evaluated in terms of accuracy, precision, limit of detection, type of sample (serum vs. plasma), cross-reactivity (with other transfusion transmissible infections markers), and interference (with endogenous substances). Proficiency control material included kit-controls, archived known positive donor samples, third-party controls, and World Health Organization (WHO)/National Institute for Biological Standards and Controls (NIBSC, MHRA, UK) controls. The clinical performance was evaluated using routine donor and patient samples received during the study period. RESULTS: HIV fourth-generation assay showed reliable and reproducible results measured in terms of coefficient of variation % with kit-controls, archived known positive donor samples, third-party controls, and WHO international standards for anti-HIV 1 and 2 antibodies, HIV1 p24 antigens and HIV2 p26 antigen controls. The analytical sensitivity of the HIV fourth-generation assay was found to be 0.1 IU/mL of HIV1 p24 antigen control and there was no cross-reactivity or interference observed. In the clinical performance of the assay, HIV fourth-generation assay showed reliable performance in both donor and patient samples. CONCLUSION: HIV fourth-generation assay meets the requirements for its use as a screening assay for HIV infection based on the analytical and clinical performance of the assay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) is a single-nucleotide change in a deoxyribose nucleic acid (DNA) sequence that occurs in >1% of population. Methylene tetra hydro folate reductase (MTHFR) C677T (rs1801133) and methionine synthase enzyme (MTR) A2756G (rs1805087) are two such SNPs occurring in coding sequence of the respective genes, which are frequently seen with neural tube defects (NTDs). MTHFR and MTR genes are involved in folate metabolism. The folate level in the course of pregnancy is treated as vital in the etiopathogenesis of NTDs. This study aims to explore the association of SNPs of both genes and red blood cell (RBC) folate levels in the predisposition to NTDs. Aims and Objective: The purpose of this investigation was to determine the relationship of NTDs with polymorphisms in MTHFR and MTR genotype and to estimate and compare the RBC folate levels in NTD patients and controls. Materials and Methods: A total of 397 individuals were enrolled (163 patients and 234 controls) for this observational study. Genotyping to find out MTHFR C677T and MTR A2756G was performed by polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism technique from DNA extracted from the subject's blood. RBC folate level was estimated by chemiluminescence immunoassay method with the same blood sample. Results: The total RBC folate levels were significantly less among cases compared to controls (P = 0.020). A significant difference for RBC folate was observed between case and control groups of various genotypes of MTHFR C677T, except heterozygote CT (P = 0.459). Among MTR A2756G, genotypes with only homozygous AA have significant difference (P = 0.003) for RBC folate levels. Among different types of NTDs, there were no significant differences for RBC folate levels. Among MTHFR C677T, T allele possessed 1.9 times risk compared to C allele for the occurrence of NTDs. In MTR A2756G polymorphism, the odds of developing NTDs were 1.6 times in heterozygous AG compared to homozygous AA. Similarly, the risk for NTDs was three times higher in subjects with both heterozygous AG and CT genotypes compared to wild-type homozygous AA and CC genotypes. Conclusion: The total RBC folate levels were significantly less among cases compared to controls, and the genotypes had no such effect in decrease in RBC folate levels. The presence of mutant allele in homozygous or heterozygous condition for both SNPs had increased risk associated with NTDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background /purpose: Leptin—a protein hormone that plays vital role in the regulation of glucose homeostasis and insulin sensitivity, involved in regulating the circadian rhythms of gonadotropic, thyrotropic and adrenal axes in the endocrine system. This cross-sectional study was undertaken to correlate serum leptin levels and other demographic and biochemical parameters between prediabetic cases and control subjects of Kashmiri population. Furthermore, association of serum leptin levels with various demographic and biochemical parameters along with insulin resistance in pre-diabetic subjects was elucidated. In our study, pre-diabetic cases (n = 212) and healthy controls (n = 196) were enrolled. Methods: All study subjects underwent anthropometric assessment. Serum samples of all study subjects were analysed for biochemical parameters employing the principle of spectrophotometry and leptin levels using sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Insulin levels of prediabetic cases were deduced by chemiluminescent micro particle immunoassay (CMIA) technology and thereby calculating their insulin resistance. Results: The cases had statistically increased leptin levels, lipid profile and obesity as compared to controls (p ≤ 0.05). Our study, showed a positive correlation between elevated leptin levels and increased lipid levels (total cholesterol, triglycerides; TG and very low density lipoproteins-cholesterol; VLDL-C) in prediabetics (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Beyond adiposity, leptin levels may increase the risk of pre-diabetes in Kashmiri population. Since the secretion, estimation and measurements of leptins are modest in contrast to insulin levels; therefore, leptin levels can also be included in the routine measurement as an indicator of metabolic syndrome and/or T2DM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PURPOSE: To study the clinico-pathological profile of breast cancer patients and the prevalence of uterine fibroids in them, their hormonal levels and hormone receptor status. PATIENTS AND METHODS: 52 patients with breast cancer who attended AIIMS Bhopal from November 2018 to January 2020 were selected, with their clinical details, triple assessment and other investigations for further management being performed and recorded. The presence of uterine fibroids was assessed using ultrasound of the abdomen, and for patients who had undergone hysterectomy, previous medical records were examined to ascertain the history of uterine fibroids. Serum levels of estrogen and progesterone were assessed using chemi-luminescent micro-particle immune assay (CMIA). RESULTS: The mean age of patients was 50.35 ± 10.87 years. 36.54% of our patients had uterine fibroids, of whom 15.38% had undergone hysterectomy for the same, and 21.15% was detected on ultrasound of the abdomen during evaluation. Among patients with uterine fibroids, 84.2% were hormone receptor-positive, while in patients without uterine fibroids, only 57.6% had positive receptors. (P=0.049). Among pre-menopausal patients, there was a statistically significant difference in serum progesterone values between patients with and without uterine fibroids. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of uterine fibroids in our study group of breast cancer patients was found to be high. The role of estrogen and progesterone in the pathophysiology of both diseases and the common risk factors involved may biologically explain this finding. Breast cancer and other estrogen associated disorders may hold future research prospects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Subsequent to serosurveys 1 and 2 for COVID-19 carried out in three wards of Mumbai in July and August 2020, Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai conducted serosurvey 3 in March 2021. This was to identify the extent of exposure by testing specific IgG antibodies against COVID-19. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted to find the prevalence of seropositivity in Mumbai, which included 10,197 samples belonging to patients visiting public dispensaries (slum population, 6006) and private (nonslum population, 4191) laboratories of Aapli Chikitsa network for blood investigations for non-COVID illnesses. The ward-wise number of unlinked anonymous samples from 24 wards was predecided by using probability proportionate sampling. The samples were collected using quota sampling technique as per predecided sample for each ward. These samples collected from nonimmunized individuals were tested for IgG antibodies at the Molecular Biology Laboratory of Kasturba Hospital for Infectious Diseases by chemiluminescence assay (CLIA) method. Results: The overall seropositivity was found to be 36.3% (41.6% in slum and 28.59% in nonslum population). It was more in city wards (38.28%) followed by western suburb (36.47%) and then eastern suburb wards (34.86%), matching with the proportion of cases in these wards during the study period. There was no significant difference in seropositivity among males and females and in different age groups. Conclusions: Seropositivity is higher in slum areas than nonslum areas. It has reduced in slum areas and increased in nonslum areas as compared to findings of serosurveys 1 and 2. This explains the detection of a greater number of cases from nonslum areas in the second wave. The average seropositivity of 36.3% justifies the necessity of immunization on a wider scale in the city. Periodic serosurveys are required at fixed intervals to monitor the trend of infection and level of herd immunity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a public health problem that currently affects a large part of the female population and has short‐ and long‐term consequences for the fetus and the mother. It has been reported that GDM affects 1%–14% of all pregnancies, and that its incidence has been steadily rising. In recent years while exploring the etiological factors responsible for the emergence of insulin resistance particularly that of transient nature, vitamin D has emerged as one of the possible factors. Although systematic review and metaanalysis of observational studies show that low blood vitamin D level during pregnancy is associated with 1.8 times higher odds of GDM as compared to those having normal blood vitamin D levels; however, individual observational studies about maternal vitamin D status and risk of GDM are conflicting, The aim of this study is to compare the levels of 25(OH) vitamin D in women with gestational diabetes mellitus and normoglycemic pregnant women to assess the pathogenic role of vitamin D in the causation of GDM. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Era's Lucknow Medical College and Hospital (ELMCH), Lucknow from December 2018 to November 2020 The present study was an analytical case–control study, in which a total of 30 pregnant women in 24–28 weeks of gestation diagnosed as GDM using Diabetes in Pregnancy Study Group criteria were enrolled as cases while another 30 pregnant women in same gestational age range with normoglycemic profile were enrolled as controls. The 25(OH)D levels were assessed by the chemiluminecence immunoassay. The statistical analysis was performed using SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Sciences) Version 21.0. Results: On multivariate analysis, vegetarian diet and GDM were found to be significantly associated with vitamin D deficiency. The present study endorsed the relationship between vitamin D deficiency and GDM and showed a high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency, and that too at severe level could result in GDM. Appropriate awareness and intervention strategies are warranted on a larger sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: There are limited published data on association of results from commercial serological anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 IgG antibody CLIA (chemiluminescent immunoassay) assays with neutralizing antibodies. This study was undertaken with an objective to correlate sample‐to‐cut‐off (S/Co) ratio of CLIA antibody tests with inhibition activity, which may then serve as a valuable guide for labelling plasma as COVID convalescent plasma (CCP) for therapy and assessing vaccine efficacy. Materials and Methods: A total of 139 donor serum samples who were previously RT‐PCR positive and had recovered completely from COVID‐19 at least 28 days prior to collection of samples were recruited at three sites. The samples were analysed for S/Co ratio and per cent inhibition activity with VITROS SARS‐CoV‐2 IgG chemiluminescent assay and GenScript cPass SARS‐CoV‐2 Surrogate Virus Neutralization Test (sVNT) kit, respectively. Linear regression equation and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve were used to check the proposed model of comparing S/Co with per cent inhibition. Results: The results indicate very good correlation between the S/Co ratio of the chemiluminescent IgG assay and the neutralization activity depicted by per cent inhibition on sVNT assay. S/Co ratio of 4·04 (low‐titre) and 8·19 (high‐titre) correlated with 30% and 68% inhibition, respectively. Conclusion: Chemiluminescent SARS‐CoV‐2 IgG assay can be used as a semi‐quantitative test, with a cut‐off of >8·19S/Co ratio for selecting donors for convalescent plasma therapy and assessing efficacy of vaccination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Higher prevalence of thyroid diseases are noted with increasing age. Symptoms of thyroid disorders often develop so insidiously, that they go unnoticed and there is also the risk of being misinterpreted for menopausal symptoms. Present study was executed in view of paucity of data regarding thyroid disorders among tribal perimenopausal age group and there was a need for timely intervention of this chronic noncommunicable disorder among these women. Aim: To determine the thyroid function and anti-Thyroid Peroxidase Antibody (anti-TPO Ab) status among the tribal perimenopausal women. Materials and Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted for a period of six months from July 2017 to December 2017 among perimenopausal women in the age group of 40-55 years residing at Hakki Pikki Tribal Colony near Bengaluru, Karnataka, India. Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH), Total T3 (Total Tri iodothyronine), Total T4 (Total Tetraidiodothyronine) and anti-TPO antibody levels were. estimated by Chemiluminescence Immuno Assay (CLIA). Data was analysed using Open Epi software to find out Mean±SD, p-value (student's t-test with significance set at p<0.05) and r-value (Pearson's correlation coefficient). Results: Subclinical Hypothyroidism (SCH) was observed in 3 (7.32%) women and anti-TPO Ab positivity (anti-TPO antibody level >30 IU/mL) was found in 14 (34.14%) women amongst 41 perimenopausal subjects. Raised anti-TPO Ab was observed in all the 3 (100%) SCH women and 11 (26.82%) euthyroid women. Significant difference (p<0.001) between anti-TPO Ab values among SCH and euthyroid women with significant positive correlation (r-value 0.7023 and p<0.05) between TSH and anti-TPO Ab values in anti-TPO Ab positive women was noted. Conclusion: Anti-TPO Ab positivity was seen in 34% of perimenopausal women, out of them majority 79% was in euthyroid state and 21% had SCH. Hence in addition to routine thyroid profile, we suggest estimation of anti-TPO Ab levels in this age group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Vitamin D deficiency is a widely prevalent condition with patients in both symptomatic and asymptomatic spectrum. With the lack of routine screening there exists an unknown population of Indian Orthopaedic surgeons who are deficient in Vitamin D and lead to an unexplained loss of quality of work and increased susceptibility to various other diseases. The easiest access to resources for supplementation is available to this group of treating physicians however its use for their personal cure is rarely recognised. This study aims to highlight this endemic disease and to find out its correlation with other parameters Methods: It is a prospective observational study including 150 practicing orthopaedic surgeons from entire India who visited our centre during 3 months duration for various educational meetings. Venous sample was collected after due informed consent and analysed at a single laboratory for 25-OH Cholecalciferol levels by a chemiluminescent assay. All the samples were analysed and a questionnaire was sent to the participants via google forms regarding various parameters under study. Results: The mean serum Vitamin D levels were 18.6 ± 9.67 ng/ml in the sample studied. 17 out of 150 participants (11.3%) were found to have sufficient serum levels of 25(OH) Cholecalciferol. 105 participants (70%) were having deficient levels and 28 (18.7%) had insufficient levels of Vitamin D. Overall 88.7% participants had Vitamin D deficiency among the sample studied. Conclusion: This widespread prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency warrants frequent screening and routine supplementation of Vitamin D in orthopaedic surgeons thereby providing a low cost solution to improve the troublesome situation among healthcare providers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To assess the vitamin D status among the study population and to determine the association between Vitamin D deficiency and dyslipidemia. Materials and Methods: This cross sectional study included medical undergraduates aged between 18-20 years with no major illness or medication history. Complete fasting lipid profile was measured by photometry method and biochemical estimation of serum 25-hydroxy 25(OH)D was done using automated chemiluminescent immunoassay. Vitamin D status and lipid profile parameters were compared using Pearson Chi-square test. P < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Descriptive statistics such as mean, standard deviation, and inferential statistics like Chi-square test were used. Results: 96.6% were vitamin D deficient and 40% of the subjects were dyslipidemic. There was no significant association between Vitamin D status and Lipid profile. Conclusion: High prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency but no significant association between vitamin D deficiency and dyslipidemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Data on specific causes of mortality in South East Asians with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) remain scarce. We followed 2061 outpatients with T2DM (Chinese 63%, Malays 20%, and Asian Indians 17%) for an average of 5.5 (standard deviation = 2.9) years and identified 365 death events by data linkage with national death registry. Cardiovascular disease was the main cause of mortality (44%), followed by renal disease (17%), infection (17%), cancer (14%), and others causes (8%). Survival analyses revealed that risks for all-cause and cause-specific mortality vary greatly among ethnic groups. Presence of diabetic kidney disease was an independent risk factor for death attributable to cardiovascular disease, renal disease, and infection, while HbA1c level predicted all major causes of deaths even after accounting for multiple other risk factors. These data reinforce the importance of glycemic control and prevention of diabetic kidney disease for mitigation of mortality burden in multiethnic Asians with T2DM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Adequate antenatal Vitamin D intake is essential for maternal and fetal health during pregnancy and avoidance of adverse outcomes. The normal and abnormal concentrations are not well established in the different parts of the world with varying customs in life. We intended to estimate the normal random serum Vitamin D levels among antenatal mothers in the first trimester and whether factors such as age, weight, and religion have any influence on the same. Materials and Methods: In this epidemiological study of 644 parturients, we collected the blood samples from asymptomatic antenatal mothers in the first trimester. A simple convenient sample of mothers on no other supplements except folate was selected. The present study was done from April 2019 to March 2020 after individual informed consent and ethical clearance. The factors such as age, weight, type of diet, occupation, and religion were noted. The estimation of Vitamin D3 levels was done by the well described chemiluminescent technique. A value of <20 ng/ml was defined as deficient. Student t-tests, analysis of variance, and correlation tests were done accordingly to find out the influence of the above factors on the level. Results: 83.7% of all women were deficient in Vitamin D3, if the level of 20 ng/ml was taken as cutoff. The mean Vitamin D3 level was 14.57 ± 6.73 ng/ml. Religion wise, the mean Vitamin D3 was 16.63 ng/ml in Hindus (sample – 402/644), 10.55 ng/ml in Muslims (sample – 207/644), 14.27 ng/ml in Christians (sample – 16/644), and 15.08 ng/ml in others (sample – 19/644). There was a significant reduction in the levels of Vitamin D in Muslim women. There is no influence of age, weight, or dietary pattern. Conclusion: A majority of Indian pregnant women were deficient in Vitamin D3, worse among Muslims. We conclude that lifestyle changes with more exposure to sunlight should be suggested to all women in the reproductive age group to circumvent the problem. Health education on these lines should be imparted to them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are only limited reports on Punjabi’s health status in Malaysia. This cross-sectional study assessed the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (Mets) and its risk factors among 277 subjects recruited from the Malaysian Punjabi community. Overall prevalence of Mets was 43%, but 61% among females. Subjects classified with Mets had significantly (p < 0.05) higher body mass index, visceral fat and percentage of body fat. Daily carbohydrate and glycemic index (GI) were also higher among Mets subjects (p < 0.05). Logistics regression analysis showed that primary level of education (OR 5.57, CI 1.29-23.97, p = 0.021) was a factor associated with Mets, followed by middle household income (OR 2.30, CI 1.01-5.20, p = 0.046), GI (OR 1.03, CI 1.00-1.06, p = 0.026), and age (OR 1.03, CI 1.00-1.05, p = 0.023). Mets shows high prevalence among the studied Punjabi population, prompting the consideration of adequate preventive measures, primarily among lower socioeconomic groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aim of this cross-sectional study was to evaluate the association between stress, salivary cortisol, and periodontitis among the inmates of the central prison. Materials and Methods: Seventy inmates were grouped depending on their pocket depth into Group A (pocket depth >4 mm and <6 mm), Group B (at least four sites with pocket depth ≥6 mm), and Group C (pocket depth ≤3 mm). The clinical parameters such as the oral hygiene index-simplified, gingival index, pocket depth, and the clinical attachment levels (CALs) were recorded. Stress was measured using the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale along with prison time served. Saliva samples were collected, and cortisol levels were determined using electrochemiluminescence assay. Chi-square test was used for finding the association between the clinical parameters. The correlation between clinical parameters, stress, salivary cortisol levels, and time served was done using Pearson's rank correlation coefficient. Results: The CALs, the stress score and the salivary cortisol levels were significantly higher in Group B (P < 0.001). Pearson's correlation showed a positive correlation between stress, cortisol level, and pocket depth. A positive correlation which was statistically significant was obtained between salivary cortisol level and prison time served by the inmates. Conclusion: Within the limits of this study, it can be concluded that there is a positive relation between stress and periodontal disease. The study suggests that salivary cortisol level can be used as a marker to assess stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The present study addressed the interesting findings of supplemental evaluation of hepatitis B “seroyield” donors. Materials and Methods: Each blood donor sample was tested for anti-human immunodeficiency virus type I (HIV-I)/HIV type II (HIV-II), HBsAg, and anti-hepatitis C virus (HCV) antibody by enhanced chemiluminescence method and subjected to individual donor-nucleic acid testing (NAT) for HIV-I, hepatitis B virus (HBV), and HCV. NAT test was performed using the eSAS system, Procleix Ultrio Assay, Novartis Diagnostics, CA, US. Confirmation of HBsAg was done using HBsAg Confirmatory Kit (Ortho Clinical Diagnostics, Johnson & Johnson, USA) and viral load assessment was done using Cobas TaqMan real time-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay (Roche Molecular Systems, Branchburg, NJ, USA). To provide information on the stage of infection, specimens were tested for anti-HBc total (IgG + IgM), anti-HBc IgM and HBeAg. HBeAg-negative samples were tested for anti-HBe antibody. Results: A total of 60 hepatitis B seroyield donors which showed mean initial sample/cutoff of 1.6 with enhanced chemiluminescence assay were investigated further for confirmation of disease status. All 60 cases were confirmed positive with neutralization assay (VITROS HBsAg Confirmatory Kit) while no target was detected on viral load assessment with RT-PCR. Sixteen donors were HBeAg positive (4 IgM anti-HBc positive and 12 IgM anti-HBc negative) and 44 were IgM anti-HBc negative, anti-HBc total positive, and anti-HBe positive. Conclusion: About 7.7% of HBsAg positive and NAT nonreactive donors (nondetectable HBV DNA) could be potentially infectious (HBeAg positive), whereas rest of the donors were consistent with chronic HBV infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Lab-diagnosis of hepatitis C virus (HCV) is based on detecting specific antibodies by enzyme immunoassay (EIA) or chemiluminescence immuno-assay (CIA). Center for Disease Control reported that signal-to-cut-off (s/co) ratios in anti-HCV antibody tests like EIA/CIA can be used to predict the probable result of supplemental test; above a certain s/co value it is most likely to be true-HCV positive result and below that certain s/co it is most likely to be false-positive result. A prospective study was undertaken in patients in tertiary care setting for establishing this “certain” s/co value. Materials and Methods: The study was carried out in consecutive patients requiring HCV testing for screening/diagnosis and medical management. These samples were tested for anti-HCV on CIA (VITROS® Anti-HCV assay, Ortho-Clinical Diagnostics, New Jersey) for calculating s/co value. The supplemental nucleic acid test used was polymerase chain reaction (PCR) (Abbott). PCR test results were used to define true negatives, false negatives, true positives, and false positives. Performance of different putative s/co ratios versus PCR was measured using sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value and most appropriate s/co was considered on basis of highest specificity at sensitivity of at least 95%. Results: An s/co ratio of ≥6 worked out to be over 95% sensitive and almost 92% specific in 438 consecutive patient samples tested. Conclusion: The s/co ratio of six can be used for lab-diagnosis of HCV infection; those with s/co higher than six can be diagnosed to have HCV infection without any need for supplemental assays. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Most of the retrospective studies have demonstrated that traumatic brain injury mediated hypopituitarism could be more frequent than previously known. Therefore, this study has prospectively investigated pituitary function and their correlation with severity, pressure effect and Glasgow Outcome Scale in the acute phase of moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injury. Patients and methods: One hundred consecutive moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injury patients from August 2012 to November 2013 formed the study group. Apart from clinical assessment, non-contrast computed tomography of the head was performed on all patients on admission. The hormonal analysis (fT3, fT4, TSH, GH, Cortisol, Prolactin) was performed within 24 hours of traumatic brain injury and was repeated on the 7th day amongst the patients who survived. Results: Growth hormone was the most common hormone to decrease. Cortisol was the most common hormone to increase. Risk of pituitary insufficiency was increased in patients with severe traumatic brain injury, patients with increased intracranial pressure and who had low Glasgow Outcome Scale. Conclusion: Neuroendocrine dysfunction occurs often in the acute phase of moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injury, more commonly in patients with severe traumatic brain injury, patients with pressure effects and low Glasgow Outcome Scale. Hormonal analysis should be considered in patients with moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injury, so that appropriate hormonal replacement can be done to optimize the clinical outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Syphilis is a transfusion transmissible infections and it is mandatory to do serological test for syphilis (STS) on all donor blood samples. STS is usually based on detection of antibodies against the cardiolipin-lecithin antigen or against the Treponema-specific antigen. STS with good sensitivity and specificity helps enhance blood safety and consolidation of STS along with other transfusion transmittable infections such as human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis-C virus, and hepatitis-B virus helps in reducing the errors and enhances efficiency. Aims: This study was designed to evaluate the performance of newly introduced VITROS® syphilis Treponema pallidum agglutination (TPA) assay based on enhanced chemiluminescence principle for its analytical performance for use as a STS on donor blood samples at a tertiary care health center in National Capital Region, India. Materials and Methods: A total of 108 random blood units collected from the donors (both voluntary and replacement donors) and 28 known syphilis sero-reactive samples stored at −20°C, were used to evaluate the performance of VITROS® syphilis TPA assay based on enhanced chemiluminescence assay on VITROS® ECiQ immunodiagnostics system along with its analytical performance in terms of its sensitivity, precision, cross-reactivity and interference studies. Results: VITROS® syphilis TPA showed 100% sensitivity and specificity with precision (20 days study) of <10% co-efficient of variation. There was no cross-reactivity with other viral and auto-immune antibodies. No interference was observed from endogenous interfering substances like free hemoglobin or fats. Conclusions: Performance of the VITROS® syphilis TPA assay meets the requirements for its use as STS in blood bank, thus allowing consolidation with other transfusion transmittable infections screening assay on chemiluminescence platform, which is highly valuable for optimizing workflow and efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Composition of phenolic acid and flavonoids in methanolic extracts of dried fruits of selected spices of Apiaceae viz. Anethum graveolens (AnG), Apium graveolens (ApG), Carum carvi (CaC), Coriandrum sativum (CoS), Cuminum cyminum (CuC), Foeniculum vulgare (FoV) and Trachyspermum ammi (TrA) were analyzed using a high performance liquid chromatography-photo diode array detector (HPLC-PDA). Chlorogenic acid was the most predominant phenolic acid constituent present in all the samples analyzed, with the highest in C. carvi (466mg.100g−1). Rutin was the most abundant flavonoid with highest concentration in C. sativum (417 mg.100 g−1). DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) radical-scavenging, superoxide-scavenging activity and photochemiluminescence assays were employed to measure antioxidant activities. There were positive correlations between total phenolic content in the spices and their antioxidant activities. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Glossocardia boswallea (Pittapapda or Parpat) is used in the Indian system of traditional medicine. The present study investigated the antioxidant and hepatoprotective activity of hexane (GH), ethanol (GE), and water extract (GW) of the whole plant. Results showed that GH and GE inhibited 1,1-diphenyl 2-picryl hydrazyl (DPPH), nitric oxide (NO) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) radicals in a dose-dependent manner. The total antioxidant capacities of lipid-soluble substances in GH, GE and GW were 14.342, 12.656, and 9.890 nmol g−1 trolox equivalent, respectively. The trade of phenol content was GW

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) accounts for one-fourth of all cases of chronic liver disease in India. It is estimated that there are 12.5 million HCV carriers in our country, and at least a quarter of them are likely to develop chronic liver disease in the next 10-15 years. Anti HCV screening among blood donors is very important to reduce the post-transfusion HCV-induced chronic liver disease. In Rotary Blood Bank, New Delhi, we are using highly sensitive enhanced chemiluminescence technology for Anti HCV screening along with other markers viz., Anti HIV, HBsAg and Anti HBc antibody in blood donors in Vitros ECi system, to enhance the safety of the blood for transfusion. To confirm the sero-reactivity of the samples in Vitros ECi system, we have analysed the anti HCV sero-reactive samples by HCV Recombinant Immunoblot assay (RIBA). In this study, we have screened about 12,221 voluntary donor samples collected during the period February 7 to June 7, for anti-HCV antibody in Vitros ECi system. About five samples showed sero-reactivity in the grey zone (S/Co 0.9-0.99), 57 samples showed weak reactive (1.0-6.0) and 26 samples showed moderate to strong sero-reactive (>6.0) in enhanced chemiluminescence technology. From the 88 samples, we have selected about 40 samples comprises of moderate to strong reactive (seven samples), weak reactive (28 samples) and gery zone reactive samples (five samples), and did the HCV RIBA strip immunoblot assay to confirm the presence of anti HCV antibody. In HCV RIBA assay, five samples of moderate to strong reactive and one sample of grey zone reactive showed the presence of two or more bands confirming the reactivity to HCV antigen; one sample of moderate to strong reactive, 14 samples of weak reactive and two samples of grey zone reactive showed the presence of one band confirming the status of reactivity as Indeterminate; one sample of moderate to strong reactive, 14 samples of weak reactive and two samples of grey zone reactive showed negative reaction. This study showed that Vitros ECi was able to detect HCV infection at a very early stage of infection. Samples which were weak reactive or borderline reactive with the VITROS ECi were picked up by HCV RIBA thus endorsing the sensitivity of the VITROS ECi assay and its utility as a screening assay in blood donors, which helps to enhance the safety of blood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]