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Abstract In the intensive care unit (ICU), acute kidney injury (AKI) is the most common cause of morbidity and mortality. Hospital-acquired acute kidney injury (HAAKI) is AKI developing after 48 h. We aimed to study the development of AKI and its associated risk factors. We conducted a longitudinal observational study. Inclusion criteria were patients > 18 years of age admitted to ICU. The primary outcome was the development of AKI as defined by Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) criteria. A total of 273 patients were included in the study. Out of 273, 44(16.11%) patients developed AKI. The mean age was 45.80(17.39) years, and 60.81% were males. The median acute physiology and chronic health evaluation (APACHE II) and sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) scores were 12(8–18) and 5(3–7), respectively. Diabetes mellitus (23.44%) and hypertension (23.81%) were predominant comorbidities. The risk factors associated with AKI were serum chloride level, colistin, invasive ventilation, positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP), and fluid balance. The hospital mortality was significantly higher in patients with AKI (43.18%) as compared with no AKI (14.41%). Among the secondary outcomes, 7 (15.90%) patients required renal replacement therapy (RRT) during hospitalisation. The length of ICU stay was higher in patients with AKI 8(5–13) compared to no AKI 5(3–8). A total of 16.11% developed HAAKI, and mortality was 43.18%. Post 6 months follow-up of AKI patients, mortality was 23%. Among survivors none of the patients were on RRT.Patients admitted with normal kidney function can develop AKI. Hence, careful monitoring of ICU patients is necessary.

Abstract Objectives The objective of this study is to understand the role of vitamin B12 supplementation in improving skeletal muscle function among the elderly. Methods A literature review in the Medline database was conducted to understand the association between vitamin B12 and muscle function in Section A. In Section B, 28 healthy elderly participants aged ≥60 years were recruited in a cross‐sectional design for estimation of plasma vitamin B12 status and assessment of upper limb muscle strength Maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) and muscle quality (expressed as MVC/total muscle mass). Participants were grouped based on vitamin B12 status into vitamin B12‐depleted (

Background: Excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS), a cardinal symptom of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is assessed using Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS). Some limitations of ESS include graded responses, inapplicable situations and equal scores for active and passive situations. To overcome these limitations, we developed a novel sleepiness scale and evaluated its performance in patients with OSA. Methods: The study was executed in multiple phases. After determining applicability of items in the ESS, a 6-item questionnaire was developed comprising OSA symptoms and self-reported ‘sleepy’ situations, dichotomized responses and weighted scoring. After content and face validation by experts, the scale was tested for applicability and its performance was compared with ESS in patients with suspected OSA. Results: In phase I, applicability of ESS was tested in 189 participants, of whom 98 (51.8 %) participants found multiple items inapplicable.In phase II, 34 self-reported sleepy situations from 200 participants were narrowed down to a 6-item questionnaire, based on expert validation. This scale was named the Indian Sleepiness Scale (ISS) and was tested for applicability in phase III in 226 participants from diverse literacy backgrounds, who found all situations applicable.In phase IV, ISS and ESS were administered to 335 patients with suspected OSA. OSA was confirmed on polysomnography in 294 (87.7 %) patients. A cut-off score of ≥6 was derived for ISS; at this cut-off score, the ISS which was more sensitive than ESS (71.1 % vs 43.2 %). Conclusions: The Indian Sleepiness Scale was found to be widely applicable and more sensitive than ESS for sleepiness evaluation in patients with OSA.

Abstract Background Vaccination helped in reducing mortality and disease severity due to COVID-19. Some patients can develop breakthrough infections. The effect of vaccination in critically ill patients admitted with breakthrough infections is not well studied. We designed a study to estimate the effect of vaccination on ICU mortality in critically ill COVID-19 patients by using propensity score matching. Methods We included patients from 15th June 2020 to 31st December 2021. Inclusion criteria were unvaccinated and vaccinated COVID-19 patients requiring intensive care unit (ICU) admission. The institutional ethics committee approval was obtained (institutional ethics committee, IEC 08/2023, Clinical trial registry, India CTRI/2023/01/049142). The primary outcome was ICU mortality. The secondary outcomes were the length of ICU stay and duration of mechanical ventilation. We used multivariable logistic regression (MLR) and propensity score matching (PSM) for the statistical analysis. Results Total of 667 patients (79.31%) were unvaccinated and 174 (20.68%) vaccinated. The mean age was 57.11 [standard deviation (SD) 15.13], and 70.27% were males. The ICU mortality was 56.60% [95% confidence interval (CI) 53.24–60%]. The results of MLR and PSM method showed that vaccinated patients were less likely to be associated with mortality [adjusted odds ratio (AOR), 95% CI using logistic regression: 0.52 (0.29, 0.94), and by propensity score matching: 0.83 (0.77, 0.91)]. Conclusion The findings of this study support COVID-19 vaccination as an effective method for reducing case fatality not only in the general population but also in critically ill patients, and it has important public health implications.

Background With over 100 million Indians living in urban slums and high child mortality among low-income groups, focusing on maternal and child health (MCH) among urban underprivileged is vital, if India is to achieve the fourth and fifth Millennium Development goals. Objectives To identify the gaps in the MCH Continuum of care, by assessing coverage and quality of Maternal and Child Health Services in an urban underprivileged area of Bangalore City. Methods A survey was conducted in an urban slum of Bangalore City, using systematic random sampling. A total of 178 subjects were interviewed with a pre-tested questionnaire. 88 were mothers who delivered in the last one year (to assess maternal care services), and 90 were mothers of a child aged 12-23 months (to assess immunization coverage). Breastfeeding practices and care during childhood illness were documented in both groups. Results Though institutional delivery rate was 97.7%, only 34.1% mothers had received full antenatal care. The quality of antenatal and postnatal services was poor, practices like prelacteal feeds and delayed initiation of breastfeeding were common. Less than 40 % of children were exclusively breastfed for at least 6 months. Only 53% of children aged 12-23 months were fully immunised. Primary immunisation drop-out rates were high. Mothers’ knowledge regarding vaccines was poor. Children with diarrhea received less fluids and food and only 61% received ORS. Conclusion This study identified the following gaps in the MCH Continuum of Care- lack of IFA consumption, poor quality of antenatal and postnatal care, high immunisation dropout rates, erroneous breastfeeding practices and inadequate care during diarrhoea. Further research may identify potential solutions to bridging these gaps in MCH care.

Introduction: Common mental disorders (CMD) and cardiovascular diseases (CVD), common health problems among patients seeking primary healthcare, contribute to high economic productivity losses. Collaborative care programs for CMDs and CVDs have shown improvement in clinical outcomes for both conditions; however, data on productivity outcomes are scarce. Objective: Effect of integrated collaborative care on productivity among people with comorbid CMD and CVD in rural Karnataka primary health clinics. Methods: Participants were recruited within a randomized trial in rural South India, where patients received either collaborative or enhanced standard care. In this substudy, 303 participants were followed for 3 months and assessed with the iMTA Productivity Cost Questionnaire (iPCQ). Results: We found a reduction in the proportion of individuals reporting productivity loss at 3 months (66%) compared to baseline (76%; P = 0.002). Productivity losses decreased from INR 30.3 per person per day at baseline to 17.7 at 3 months. Reductions were similar in the two treatment conditions. Conclusion: Medical intervention may foster reduced productivity losses among patients with CMD and CVD. Collaborative care did not translate into higher reductions in productivity losses than “enhanced standard care.”

Abstract Background Echocardiography has become an integral part of the management of critically ill patients. It helps to diagnose and treat various conditions. COVID-19 patients can develop cardiac dysfunction. We planned to study the echocardiographic parameters in COVID-19 patients. Methods We conducted a prospective observational multicenter study after institutional ethical committee approval. COVID-19 pneumonia patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) were enrolled. The echocardiographic evaluation was done within 24–48 hours of admission. Assessment of the left and right heart with systolic and left ventricular diastolic function evaluation was done. The primary outcome was ICU mortality. The secondary outcomes were the length of ICU stay and duration of mechanical ventilation. Results Among 573 patients mean age was 57.17 (14.67) with 68.60% being males. On day 1 of ICU, invasive mechanical ventilation was used in 257 (45%) patients. One hundred and forty-eight (25.83%) patients were on vasopressors when echocardiography was performed. Severe left ventricle (LV) systolic dysfunction was seen in 8.7% of patients and had higher odds of mortality [2.48(1.058–5.807), p = 0.037] followed by E and e′ with odds ratio of [0.984(0.971–0.998), p = 0.021] and 0.897 (0.805–0.998), p = 0.046], respectively. E/e′ indicative of filling pressure of the LV was not found to be significant. Troponin I, E/A, and RV dilatation were similar among survivors and non-survivors. Conclusion Echocardiographic evaluation in COVID-19 patients showed severe LV systolic dysfunction was associated with ICU mortality. E/e′ was not found to be significant but lower e′ was associated with higher mortality. Trial registration IEC 131/2020, CTRI/2020/06/025858 date 13th June 2020

Dietary protein plays a crucial role in the modulation of several physiological processes to sustain health and well-being. There is robust evidence of enhanced muscle protein synthesis, improved physical fitness, body composition, and performance contributed by protein supplementation combined with exercise among trained individuals or athletes. Evidence of the efficacy of such intervention on healthy adults having a sedentary lifestyle is limited. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of 12 g of additional protein in the form of a protein supplement compared to a placebo combined with a simple exercise program on plasma amino acid level, body composition, and muscle strength among healthy Indian adults having a relatively sedentary lifestyle. This double-blinded, randomized controlled trial was conducted on sedentary healthy adults 20–45 years of age, with a body mass index (BMI) between 18.5 and 27.9 kg/m2. Eighty-two participants were randomized into either the protein (intervention) or placebo (control) group. The exercise regime was the same for both groups. Out of 82 randomized participants, 58 completed the intervention. Blood tests were conducted for the amino acid OMICS measurement followed by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) for body composition and isokinetic dynamometry for muscle strength. A significant improvement was observed in the lean mass (kg) and appendicular muscle mass (AMM) adjusted for weight in the intervention group compared to the control group (p

Abstract Breast cancer (BC) among premenopausal women is an aggressive disease associated with poor outcome despite intensive treatment. Higher burden is observed in southeast Asian countries attributed to younger population structure. We compared the reproductive and clinicopathological characteristics, distribution of subtypes and survival between pre and postmenopausal women from a retrospective cohort of BC patients with median follow up over 6 years to examine the differences. In our cohort of 446 BC patients, 162/446 (36.3%) were premenopausal. Parity and age at last childbirth were significantly different between pre and postmenopausal women. Premenopausal BC had a higher proportion of HER2 amplified and triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) tumors (p = 0.012). Stratified analysis by molecular subtypes showed TNBC had significantly better disease free (DFS) and overall survival (OS) among premenopausal group (mean survival, pre vs. post, DFS = 79.2 vs. 54.0 months, OS = 72.5 vs. 49.5 months, p = 0.002 for both). Analysis on external datasets (SCAN-B, METABRIC) confirmed this finding for overall survival. Our data confirmed the previously observed association of clinical and pathological features between pre and postmenopausal BC. Exploration of better survival among premenopausal TNBC tumors is warranted in larger cohorts with long term follow up.

Background: We present a large Indian series of Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) associated with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection. The aim of the study is to present the incidence and pattern of cardiac involvement in children with MIS-C and their short-term follow-up. Methods and Results: Consecutive 144 children younger than 18 years of age diagnosed with MIS-C referred for cardiac evaluation between June 1 and November 30, 2021, were included and were followed up till February 2022. In addition to the demographics, details of COVID-19 infection, and biomarkers, their cardiovascular assessment (echocardiogram and electrocardiogram) was documented at baseline and on follow-up. The median age of children with MIS-C was 60 (24–104) months. Abnormal cardiac imaging was noted in 59% of children. Ventricular dysfunction was noted in 13.9% and coronary abnormalities were noted in 25.7% of children. The median duration when the first cardiac abnormality was reported was 7 (5–10) days. The distribution of age categories between children with and without cardiac abnormality was comparable. Children with cardiac abnormalities were followed up for a median duration of 47 (30–58) days. Complete resolution was documented in 92% of children after a median duration of 20 (9–38) days. There were no readmissions or deaths during follow-up. Conclusion: Cardiac involvement in children with MIS-C is frequent with coronary abnormalities and ventricular dysfunction being the most common manifestations. Most children exhibit complete clinical and myocardial recovery with appropriate anti-inflammatory therapy. Studies on long-term outcome of these children are needed.

Background: Mortality still remains the most significant adverse outcome encountered ever since the inception of burn management despite significant advances. Predicting mortality in the initial stages by mortality prediction models can help in many ways. Abbreviated Burn Severity Index (ABSI) and Revised Baux Score (RBS) are two commonly used models. However, these mortality prediction models have varied levels of sensitivity and specificity when applied in different clinical settings. Hence, validation in a particular clinical setting becomes important before using it. Our purpose was to understand the sensitivity and specificity of ABSI and RBS in mortality prediction in our tertiary care center. Methods: Data of all burn patients admitted into our tertiary care center from January 2018 to December 2020 were retrospectively collected. The ABSI and RBS scores were calculated for each patient. The scores between survivors and nonsurvivors were compared using statistical methods. Sensitivity and specificity of ABSI and RBS was calculated. The Receiver Operating Characteristic curve was plotted, and the area under the curve (AUC) was calculated to assess the accuracy of each model. Results: Three hundred and fifty patients were included in the study sample (Mean age: 27.3 years. Avg TBSA: 17.63%). Forty-seven patients had inhalational injury and 131 patients had full thickness burn. The mortality rate was 12.3% (43 patients). Sensitivity, specificity, and AUC for ABSI were 88%, 93%, and 0.96 and that for RBS were 74%, 96%, and 0.93, respectively. The optimal cutoff for ABSI and RBS was 7 and 85, respectively. Conclusion: Both ABSI and RBS mortality prediction models have acceptable levels of sensitivity and specificity in mortality prediction.

Background: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) and hyperglycaemia (HG) have been identified as risk factors for morbidity and mortality in coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) infection. However, a detailed study of various categories of HG and the impacts and characteristics of each of these on COVID-19 was considered important to address this metabolic disorder in COVID-19. Aims: This study aimed to describe the patterns of HG and its impact on the clinical outcomes in hospitalised patients with COVID-19 infection. Methodology: Data on 1000 consecutive patients with COVID-19 were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0 software (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA). Results: A total of 1000 patients were included for analysis The overall mean age of the study group was 52.77 + 19.71 with 636 (63.6%) male patients; 261 had mild, 317 moderate, and 422 severe infections; and 601 had HG (New-onset DM 66, known DM 386, steroid-induced HG 133 and stress HG 16). The HG group has significantly higher levels of inflammatory markers and worse outcomes. Blood glucose levels were higher in patients with known DM. The ROC cut-off of total steroids to predict mortality in the HG group was 84 mg versus 60 mg in the normoglycaemia group. The ROC cut-off of FBS to predict mortality in the overall HG group was 165, with AUC 0.58 (95% CI 0.52, 0.63, P = 0.005), whereas that for pre-existing DM and steroid HG were 232 and 166, which were also significant. There was a wide variation in mean glucose levels against time. Conclusion: HG is an independent predictor of mortality, with the highest significance in the steroid-induced category. COVID-19 morbidity and mortality can be minimised by identifying the blood glucose range for best results and instituting appropriate treatment guidelines.

Background and Aims: The COVID-19 pandemic led to significant infections among healthcare workers and deaths warranting the need for personal protective equipment. This study aimed to estimate the proportion of anaesthesiologists adhering to safety precautions and to evaluate their adherence patterns, difficulties faced and coping mechanisms in the operation theatre during the pandemic. Methods: This was a multicentric mixed methods study conducted among anaesthesiologists from two tertiary care hospitals. A paper-based questionnaire was given to all participants. The first part consisted of 21 questions regarding safety measures and extent of adherence. The second part was a response sheet regarding the various difficulties faced and coping mechanisms adopted. Following this, an in-depth interview was conducted to understand the same. The proportion of anaesthesiologists in different categories of adherence, patterns of adherence, difficulties faced, and coping mechanisms were computed and compared. Thematic framework analysis was done for in-depth interview. Results: Sixty participants were included. The adherence levels for N95 masks and face shields were higher. Most participants practised frequent handwashing and took showers after work. Fogging, difficulty in communication, marks on the face were the commonly faced difficulties. Self reassurance, adjusting the fit of masks/face shields, or taking breaks were the coping mechanisms mostly followed. Themes generated from in-depth interview include waning of caution, adaptation through innovative methods and stress due to uncertainty. Conclusion: The N95 mask was the most preferred safety precaution. Ease of use and safety were important considerations for adherence. Physical and mental acclimatisation and improved knowledge of disease played a vital role.

Background: Early detection of retinal toxicity in patients on chronic usage of hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) and thereby the prevention of irreversible visual loss is an important goal. Methods: We performed a comprehensive ophthalmologic examination, visual field testing and macular scanning using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) and Humphrey Visual Field (HVF) 10-2 perimetry in chronic HCQ users (>1 year). Participants were grouped based on the duration of HCQ exposure (5 years) and compared all the ophthalmologic parameters between the groups. Results: We included 110 patients (68 rheumatoid arthritis and 42 systemic lupus erythematosus), mean age being 38.5 ± 8.9 years, and median cumulative HCQ dose was 292 (interquartile range: 146,438) g. There were significant differences in parafoveal and perifoveal thickness between the three study groups 5 years (n = 13) (P < 0.05) which were evident as early as 2 years of usage. Further, the OCT parameters showed a significant correlation with perimetry changes (P < 0.001), macular thinning, color vision, and fundus changes. Conclusion: We demonstrate that SD-OCT and HVF 10-2 perimetry are complementary to each other and can be used to detect early retinal toxicity as early as 2 years of HCQ exposure.

Background: Deficits in knowledge regarding identification and treatment of common mental disorders (CMD) and stigmatizing attitudes towards CMDs exist among primary care physicians in India. Objectives: We aimed to assess the gain in knowledge of CMDs among primary health centre (PHC) doctors, after they underwent training in the identification and treatment of CMDs, and to assess the relationship between the gain in knowledge and demographic variables. We also assessed attitudes towards depression among PHC doctors who underwent training. Methods: We assessed knowledge of CMDs among 38 PHC doctors before and after training using a multiple-choice questionnaire (MCQ). The training session included didactic teaching and case-based discussions. Results: The post-test mean score was significantly higher compared to the pre-test mean score (P < 0.0001), indicative of a significant mean gain in knowledge of CMDs among PHC doctors following training. Significant improvements were noted on the questions assessing identification of CMDs, knowledge of depressive symptoms and identification of panic attacks, post-training (all P < 0.05). Participants with lower pre-test scores had greater improvements in knowledge post-training. Around half of the PHC doctors endorsed negative attitudes towards depression. Conclusions: We demonstrated the efficacy of a training programme for PHC doctors in improving their knowledge of CMDs. Stigmatizing attitudes towards depression were present among around half the PHC doctors even after the training. This has implications for the strategy of integrating mental healthcare into primary care, with the overall goal of reducing the treatment gap for CMDs.

Milk and legumes are good source of protein foods used to sustain muscle mass, but their effects on postprandial glucose homeostasis and energy metabolism may be different. This is relevant, for example, in the dietetic response to obesity or diabetes, where the intake of high-quality protein is often increased significantly. The objective of this study was to characterize the acute effect of whey and soy protein (15% vs. 30%) on glucose homeostasis, energy metabolism, and satiety. Healthy, normal body mass index (BMI) Indian adult males aged 20–35 years (n = 15) received 4 test meals (2 proteins (soy vs. whey) and 2 doses (15% vs. 30% protein: energy ratio)). Blood samples were collected serially after the meal to calculate the incremental area under the curve for plasma glucose and insulin. Energy expenditure and substrate oxidation were measured after the meal. Satiety was measured with a visual analogue scale. The insulin response, represented by the incremental area under the curve, was significantly higher for the 30% whey compared to the 30% soy protein meal (p

Abstract Background The goal of tuberculosis elimination put forward in the End TB Strategy prioritizes diagnosis and treatment of incipient and subclinical TB, recently defined by key stakeholders as “asymptomatic, early pre-clinical disease during which pathology evolves”. Regarded as indicative of a high risk of TB progression, considerable efforts have been made to identify these cases through exploration of biomarkers. The present study aimed to evaluate simple scoring systems for TB exposure as screening tools for subclinical TB, the only identifiable of the incipient and subclinical disease states, in a contact investigation (CI) setting of low HIV-prevalence. Methods Nested within a large prospective study in household contacts (HHCs) of smear positive pulmonary TB cases in South-India conducted 2010–2012, we assessed 1) the association between the Tuberculosis Contact Score (TCS) and the Infectivity Score, with established tools for Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infection, corrected for established TB risk factors, and 2) the capability of the TB exposure scores to identify subclinical TB defined by Mtb-culture positivity in sputum or gastric aspirate (subjects

To achieve the ambitious targets for tuberculosis (TB) prevention, care, and control stated by the End TB Strategy, new health care strategies, diagnostic tools are warranted. Host-derived biosignatures are explored for their TB diagnostic potential in accordance with the WHO target product profiles (TPPs) for point-of-care (POC) testing. We aimed to identify sputum-independent TB diagnostic signatures in newly diagnosed adult pulmonary-TB (PTB) patients recruited in the context of a prospective household contact cohort study conducted in Andhra Pradesh, India. Whole-blood mRNA samples from 158 subjects (PTB, n = 109; age-matched household controls, n = 49) were examined by dual-color Reverse-Transcriptase Multiplex Ligation-dependent Probe-Amplification (dcRT-MLPA) for the expression of 198 pre-defined genes and a Mesoscale discovery assay for the concentration of 18 cytokines/chemokines in TB-antigen stimulated QuantiFERON supernatants. To identify signatures, we applied a two-step approach; in the first step, univariate filtering was used to identify and shortlist potentially predictive biomarkers; this step may be seen as removing redundant biomarkers. In the second step, a logistic regression approach was used such that group membership (PTB vs. household controls) became the binary response in a Lasso regression model. We identified an 11-gene signature that distinguished PTB from household controls with AUCs of ≥0.98 (95% CIs: 0.94–1.00), and a 4-protein signature (IFNγ, GMCSF, IL7 and IL15) that differentiated PTB from household controls with AUCs of ≥0.87 (95% CIs: 0.75–1.00), in our discovery cohort. Subsequently, we evaluated the performance of the 11-gene signature in two external validation data sets viz, an independent cohort at the Glenfield Hospital, University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, Leicester, UK (GSE107994 data set), and the Catalysis treatment response cohort (GSE89403 data set) from South Africa. The 11-gene signature validated and distinguished PTB from healthy and asymptomatic M. tuberculosis infected household controls in the GSE107994 data set, with an AUC of 0.95 (95% CI: 0.91–0.98) and 0.94 (95% CI: 0.89–0.98). More interestingly in the GSE89403 data set, the 11-gene signature distinguished PTB from household controls and patients with other lung diseases with an AUC of 0.93 (95% CI: 0.87–0.99) and 0.73 (95% CI: 0.56–0.89). These criteria meet the WHO TTP benchmarks for a non–sputum-based triage test for TB diagnosis. We suggest that further validation is required before clinical implementation of the 11-gene signature we have identified markers will be possible.

Background: Depression and chronic medical disorders are strongly linked. There are limited studies addressing the correlates of the severity of depression in patients with co-morbid disorders in primary care settings. This study aimed to identify the socio-demographic and disease-specific risk factors associated with the severity of depression at baseline among patients participating in a randomized controlled trial (HOPE study). Methods: Participants were part of a randomized controlled trial in 49 primary care health centers in rural India. We included adults (≥30 years) with at least mild Depression or Anxiety Disorder and at least one Cardiovascular disorder or Type 2 Diabetes mellitus. They were assessed for the severity of depression using the PHQ-9, severity of anxiety, social support, number of co-morbid chronic medical illnesses, anthropometric measurements, HbA1c, and lipid profile. Results: Proportionately there were more women in the moderate category of depression than men. Ordinal logistic regression showed co-morbid anxiety and a lower level of education significantly increased the odds of more severe depression, while more social support was significantly negatively associated with depression severity in women. In men, anxiety was positively associated with greater depression severity; while reporting more social support was negatively associated with depression. Limitations: This is a cross-sectional study and thus, no causal conclusions are possible Conclusions: Anxiety and poor social support in both genders and lower educational levels in women were associated with increased severity of depression. Early identification of risk factors and appropriate treatment at a primary care setting may help in reducing the morbidity and mortality associated with depression.

Background. Indians have a poor protein intake in terms of quantity as well as quality because of their predominantly cereal-based diet. However, there is limited information on circulatory amino acid levels in healthy Indians. Herein, we evaluated the acute effect of a protein supplement on the plasma levels of essential amino acids (EAAs) in healthy Indian adults, using targeted EAA analysis. Methods. In this double-blind, randomized, crossover study, 20 healthy Indian adults were randomized to receive the test protein supplement (treatment arm, n = 10) or placebo (control arm, n = 10) with milk, after overnight fasting. After 7 days, the participants returned for the crossover treatment. Blood samples were collected at baseline and at 60 and 120 min after protein/placebo consumption. Plasma EAA levels were estimated using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Repeated measures ANOVA was performed to assess the effect of treatment on EAA levels. P values

Background: Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) is a major concern among Asian Indians, not least because many develop T2D at despite having a normal BMI (body mass index), and with relatively low body fat. Asian Indians are also generally considered to have relatively low skeletal muscle mass and strength, this has not been explored in the context of T2D.Aim: The present study aimed to compare skeletal muscle mass, function and contractile quality (strength/mass) between healthy controls, those with prediabetes (PD) as well as T2D middle-aged non-obese Asian Indians.Methods: Adult males between the age of 20–50 years, consisting of healthy controls (n = 44), PD (n = 125) and T2D (n = 55) were studied. Skeletal muscle mass was measured using Dual X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA). Isometric and dynamic muscle function was measured using an isokinetic dynamometer (at 0, 60, 120, 180 degree/s). Muscle contractile quality was derived by dividing the peak muscle torque with the respective LMM (lower limb muscle mass). Fasting blood glucose (FBG) and insulin were used to derive insulin resistance (HOMA-IR).Results: The control group was on average 10 years younger than the other two groups (p < 0.01). The LMM was similar across the three study groups. However, the age-adjusted mean muscle torque was significantly lower in both absolute and normalized isometric and isokinetic strength in PD and T2D groups compared to controls (p ≤ 0.01), with the difference persisting even after adjusting for age and other covariates. However, there was no difference in muscle strength and contractile quality between the PD and T2D study groups.Conclusions: Muscle strength and contractile quality would appear to be sensitive and early indices of the trajectory toward diabetes in Asian Indians and more so than skeletal muscle mass. It is thus important to recognize the importance of functional measurements among this population when considering the role of muscle in diabetes. The data also would suggest that specific muscle conditioning (e.g., resistance training) might have efficacy in improving function as well as muscle mass, and thus aiding in the prevention of the trajectory toward the development of T2D.

Early detection of oral cancer necessitates a minimally invasive, tissue-specific diagnostic tool that facilitates screening/surveillance. Brush biopsy, though minimally invasive, demands skilled cyto-pathologist expertise. In this study, we explored the clinical utility/efficacy of a tele-cytology system in combination with Artificial Neural Network (ANN) based risk-stratification model for early detection of oral potentially malignant (OPML)/malignant lesion. A portable, automated tablet-based tele-cytology platform capable of digitization of cytology slides was evaluated for its efficacy in the detection of OPML/malignant lesions (n = 82) in comparison with conventional cytology and histology. Then, an image pre-processing algorithm was established to segregate cells, ANN was trained with images (n = 11,981) and a risk-stratification model developed. The specificity, sensitivity and accuracy of platform/ stratification model were computed, and agreement was examined using Kappa statistics. The tele-cytology platform, Cellscope, showed an overall accuracy of 84-86% with no difference between tele-cytology and conventional cytology in detection of oral lesions (kappa, 0.67-0.72). However, OPML could be detected with low sensitivity (18%) in accordance with the limitations of conventional cytology. The integration of image processing and development of an ANN-based risk stratification model improved the detection sensitivity of malignant lesions (93%) and high grade OPML (73%), thereby increasing the overall accuracy by 30%. Tele-cytology integrated with the risk stratification model, a novel strategy established in this study, can be an invaluable Point-of-Care (PoC) tool for early detection/screening in oral cancer. This study hence establishes the applicability of tele-cytology for accurate, remote diagnosis and use of automated ANN-based analysis in improving its efficacy.

Abstract Background Tuberculosis (TB) incidence data in vaccine target populations, particularly adolescents, are important for designing and powering vaccine clinical trials. Little is known about the incidence of tuberculosis among adolescents in India. The objective of current study is to estimate the incidence of pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) disease among adolescents attending school in South India using two different surveillance methods (active and passive) and to compare the incidence between the two groups. Methods The study was a prospective cohort study with a 2-year follow-up period. The study was conducted in Palamaner, Chittoor District of Andhra Pradesh, South India from February 2007 to July 2010. A random sampling procedure was used to select a subset of schools to enable approximately 8000 subjects to be available for randomization in the study. A stratified randomization procedure was used to assign the selected schools to either active or passive surveillance. Participants who met the criteria for being exposed to TB were referred to the diagnostic ward for pulmonary tuberculosis confirmation. A total number of 3441 males and 3202 females between the ages 11 and less than 18 years were enrolled into the study. Results Of the 3102 participants in the active surveillance group, four subjects were diagnosed with definite tuberculosis, four subjects with probable tuberculosis, and 71 subjects had non-tuberculous Mycobacteria (NTM) isolated from their sputum. Of the 3541 participants in the passive surveillance group, four subjects were diagnosed with definite tuberculosis, two subjects with probable tuberculosis, and 48 subjects had non-tuberculosis Mycobacteria isolated from their sputum. The incidence of definite + probable TB was 147.60 / 100,000 person years in the active surveillance group and 87 / 100,000 person years in the passive surveillance group. Conclusion The incidence of pulmonary tuberculosis among adolescents in our study is lower than similar studies conducted in South Africa and Eastern Uganda – countries with a higher incidence of tuberculosis and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) than India. The study data will inform sample design for vaccine efficacy trials among adolescents in India.

Introduction: Evidence suggests alcohol consumption is correlated with intimate partner violence (IPV) making alcohol reduction interventions a promising method for reducing IPV. While both financial incentive and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) interventions in high-income countries, respectively, have effectively reduced alcohol consumption and IPV perpetration among men, little evidence exists demonstrating that these approaches can work in a low-resource setting.Methods: The objective of this study is to design and pilot test a low-cost, scalable intervention for reducing alcohol consumption and IPV in Bengaluru, India, where alcohol has been shown to be a key driver of high rates of IPV. A pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) design will be used to examine the feasibility of testing a combined incentive and CBT based intervention among couples to stimulate immediate behavior change and to sustain positive behaviors pertaining to alcohol use and IPV. Sixty couples will be screened and enrolled into one of three study arms: an incentive-only, incentive plus counseling, or a control arm. Extensive procedures have been included to ensure participant safety, including staff training on global safety procedures for violence intervention research, careful messaging of study aims, screening procedures to exclude those at high risk of alcohol withdrawal or severe violence due to the study, and a referral and case management system. Male and female participants will complete surveys at baseline and immediately and 3-months post-intervention. Breathalyzers will be used to capture male participants' blood alcohol content daily for intervention arm participants and three times a week for control participants. A sub-sample of male and female members of couples will participate in qualitative in-depth interviews to further explore pathways to change. The results from this preliminary study will inform the development of a larger RCT study of male alcohol and IPV reduction.

BACKGROUND: The utility of two-step tuberculin skin testing among adolescents in high tuberculosis prevalence settings is not well established. OBJECTIVES: To determine the proportion and determinants of a 0-4 mm response to an initial standard tuberculin skin test (TST) and evaluating 'boosting' with repeat testing. METHODS: Adolescents between 11 and 18 years attending schools/colleges underwent a TST; those with a response of between 0-4 mm had a repeat TST 1-4 weeks later. RESULTS: Initial TST was done for 6608/6643 participants; 1257 (19%) developed a 0-4 mm response to the initial TST. Younger age and under-nutrition were more likely to be associated with a 0-4 mm response, while the presence of BCG (Bacillus Calmette Guerin) scar and higher socio-economic class were less likely to be associated with a 0-4 mm response. On repeat testing boosting was seen in 13.2% (145/1098; ≥ 6 mm over the initial test) while 4.3% showed boosting using a more conservative cutoff of a repeat TST ≥ 10 mm with an increment of at least 6 mm (47/1098). History of exposure to a tuberculosis (TB) case was associated with enhanced response. CONCLUSION: The proportion of adolescents who demonstrated boosting on two-step TST testing in our study was relatively low. As a result repeat testing did not greatly alter the prevalence of TST positivity. However, the two-step TST helps identify individuals who can potentially boost their immune response to a second test, and thus, prevents them from being misclassified as those with newly acquired infection, or tuberculin converters. While two-step tuberculin skin testing may have a limited role in population- level TST surveys, it may be useful where serial tuberculin testing needs to be performed to distinguish those who show an enhanced response or boosters from those who indeed have a new infection, or converters.

Background The COVID-19 pandemic lockdown in 2020 resulted in school closures with eventual suspension of the mid-day meal programme, biannual deworming and iron–folic acid supplements. One year into the lockdown, we evaluated the impact of the withdrawal of these programmes on the nutritional status of rural primary-school children, aged 6–12 years, in Karnataka, India.Methods Anthropometry, haemoglobin, serum ferritin and C reactive protein were measured in 290 children at two time points, 1 year apart, starting from just before the lockdown (February 2020 to February 2021).Results The prevalence of anaemia doubled from 21% to 40% (p