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Introduction: Vitamin D is important for bone development in children. A high prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency (VDD) has been documented from different parts of India. However, limited data are available on VDD among children residing at high altitude region of country. Objectives: To assess the prevalence of VDD and associated risk factors among children in the age group of 6-18 years in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in the year 2014-2015. A total of 626 children in the age group of 6-18 years were enrolled from 30 clusters which were identified using population proportionate to size sampling method. A minimum of 20 children in the age group of 6-18 years per cluster were selected using random number tables. The data on socioeconomic status, physical activity, sunlight exposure, and biochemical parameters of bone and mineral metabolism were assessed. Results: Ninety-three percent of school-age children were found Vitamin D deficient as per serum 25(OH) D levels of <20 ng/ml. The prevalence was significantly higher among females. Conclusion: A high prevalence of VDD was found in children residing in high altitude region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Parkinson's disease (PD) has devastating effects on quality of life (QoL), but there is no instrument that has been developed for Hindi-speaking persons with Parkinson's disease (PWP). Objective: The objective of this study was to develop and validate an instrument in Hindi language to measure health-related QoL (HRQoL) in PWP. Subjects and Methods: Literature review and interviews of stakeholders were done to create a pool of 68 items to develop a questionnaire. Self-rated global QoL item was also included in the questionnaire. Questionnaire was tested on 300 Hindi-speaking PWP. Item reduction was achieved through factor analysis and clinimetrics to finalize the QoL in PD (QLPD) instrument. Validity and reliability of the QLPD were tested. Results: "QLPD" is a 45-item instrument with nine subscales, namely, activities of daily living, mobility, psychological, fear, social, family, treatment, finance, and nonmotor symptom subscales. Internal consistency of QLPD's summary score and all subscales except treatment subscale was high (α = 0.74--0.94). Intraclass correlation coefficient between summary score and global QoL was 0.79. Summary score and subscale scores were significantly different (P < 0.0001) for predefined five categories on global QoL (very good to very bad). QLPD subscales exhibited good convergent and divergent validity with subscales of 39-item PD questionnaire and short form-36 scale. Higher Hoehn and Yahr stage, lower monthly per capita income, and higher levodopa equivalent daily dosage were found to be independently associated with poor HRQoL. Conclusion: QLPD is a valid and reliable instrument to measure HRQoL in Hindi-speaking PWP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim Different deposition patterns and grading systems used to define and identify DAI remain discordant and to date these are a challenge in clinical practice. Our main objective was to study the post-mortem axonal changes and develop a grading system to identify DAI on the basis of histopathological and immunoreactive β-amyloid precursor protein (β-APP) observations in severe TBI cases. Methods Prospective study with 35 decedents with sTBI (GCS score ≤ 8) was conducted and samples were collected from three different sites–corpus callosum, thalamus and brain stem. Serial sections from each site were stained with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), and immunohistochemistry (IHC) of β-APP. Results We developed a grading system based on histopathological characteristics to assess the overall damage of axonal injury. We found maximum histopathological changes in cases with prolonged stay. Corpus callosum showed maximum changes in both gradings. Curiously, we also detected axonal swellings with H&E staining. Usually neglected, the thalamus also showed significant histopathological and immunoreactive changes for sTBI. Conclusion Our study based on histopathological and β-APP scoring system to define and identify DAI thus facilitates accurate diagnosis of DAI post mortem, which has forensic implications, and may further contribute toward survival and improvement of quality of life of sTBI patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Calcium has been shown to play a vital role in the pathophysiology of severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 and middle east respiratory syndrome coronavirus diseases, but less is known about hypocalcemia in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients and its association with the disease severity and the final outcome. Therefore, this study was conducted with an aim to assess clinical features in COVID-19 patients having hypocalcemia and to observe its impact on COVID-19 disease severity and the final outcome. Methods In this retrospective study, consecutive COVID-19 patients of all age groups were enrolled. Demographical, clinical, and laboratory details were collected and analyzed. On the basis of albumin-corrected calcium levels, patients were classified into normocalcemic (n = 51) and hypocalcemic (n = 110) groups. Death was the primary outcome. Results The mean age of patients in the hypocalcemic group was significantly lower (p < 0.05). A significantly higher number of hypocalcemic patients had severe COVID-19 infection (92.73%; p < 0.01), had comorbidities (82.73%, p < 0.05), and required ventilator support (39.09%; p < 0.01) compared with normocalcemic patients. The mortality rate was significantly higher in the hypocalcemic patients (33.63%; p < 0.05). Hemoglobin (p < 0.01), hematocrit (p < 0.01), and red cell count (p < 0.01) were significantly lower with higher levels of absolute neutrophil count (ANC; p < 0.05) and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR; p < 0.01) in the hypocalcemic patients. Albumin-corrected calcium levels had a significant positive correlation with hemoglobin levels, hematocrit, red cell count, total protein, albumin, and albumin-to-globulin ratio and a significant negative correlation with ANC and NLR. Conclusion The disease severity, ventilator requirement, and mortality were considerably higher in hypocalcemic COVID-19 patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The immunomodulatory effects of vitamin D are widely recognized and a few studies have been conducted to determine its utility in the treatment of tuberculosis, with mixed results. This study was conducted to see if vitamin D supplementation in patients with active pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) in the Indian population contributed to sputum smear and culture conversion as well as the prevention of relapse. Methods: This randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial was conducted in three sites in India. HIV negative participants aged 15–60 years with sputum smear positive PTB were recruited according to the Revised National Tuberculosis Control Program guidelines and were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive standard anti-tubercular treatment (ATT) with either supplemental dose of oral vitamin D3 (60,000 IU/sachet weekly for first two months, fortnightly for next four months followed by monthly for the next 18 months) or placebo with same schedule. The primary outcome was relapse of PTB and secondary outcomes were time to conversion of sputum smear and sputum culture. Results: A total of 846 participants were enrolled between February 1, 2017 to February 27, 2021, and randomly assigned to receive either 60,000 IU vitamin D3 (n = 424) or placebo (n = 422) along with standard ATT. Among the 697 who were cured of PTB, relapse occurred in 14 participants from the vitamin D group and 19 participants from the placebo group (hazard risk ratio 0.68, 95%CI 0.34 to 1.37, log rank p value 0.29). Similarly, no statistically significant difference was seen in time to sputum smear and sputum culture conversion between both groups. Five patients died each in vitamin D and placebo groups, but none of the deaths were attributable to the study intervention. Serum levels of vitamin D were significantly raised in the vitamin D group as compared to the placebo group, with other blood parameters not showing any significant difference between groups. Conclusions: The study reveals that vitamin D supplementation does not seem to have any beneficial effect in the treatment of PTB in terms to the prevention of relapse and time to sputum smear and culture conversion. Trial registration: CTRI/2021/02/030977 (ICMR, Clinical trial registry-India). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a leading cause of mortality, morbidity, disability, and socioeconomic losses in the Indian subcontinent. However, for policymaking and research, there is a lack of reliable and larger data in our settings. Aims and Objectives: To evaluate and describe the epidemiological, clinical characteristics, and outcomes of patients with TBI in a Level 1 Trauma Center in India. Materials and Methods: In this retrospective study, all patients with moderate or severe TBI, based on emergency department Glasgow Coma Scale, admitted to neurosurgery Intensive Care Unit (ICU) during May 2010-July 2012 were evaluated to provide detailed information on TBI-related variables and outcomes using descriptive statistics. Results: Among the 1527 patients with moderate or severe TBI patients with mean age 32.15 ± 16.76 years (range: 1-90) and male:female ratio 6.5:1, 1281 (83.89%) had severe TBI. The majority of cases took place in the age group of 21-40 years (50.24%) with the most common mode of injury as road traffic accidents (RTAs) (64.96%). Surgical intervention (craniotomy) was done in 49.12% of patients. About 34.58% (n = 528) patients died in hospital, and 67.21% (n = 701) had unfavorable outcome at 6 months. Conclusions: This is the first study of its kind from the Indian subcontinent that gives data on the admission characteristics, mortality, and 6 months outcome of such patients. Most of the injuries occurred due to RTAs, more common among the economic productive age groups and mostly in males with a high rate of mortality and unfavorable outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Health Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) in Parkinson's Disease (PD) lacks universally agreed definition and its components. A conceptual framework helps in understanding the essential domains and their inter-relationship while developing patient reported outcome measure. Aim: To construct a conceptual framework for developing HRQoL scale in PD. Materials and Methods: A panel of 7 experts extracted 6 major domains for measuring HRQoL in PD from literature review including 8 disease specific scales for PD, 2 books on quality of life, 5 websites, relevant articles; and content analysis of semistructured interviews of stakeholders (28 persons with PD, 6 caregivers and 9 clinicians). Extracted domains were subjected to consensus of stakeholders (7 persons with PD, 7 caregivers and 7 clinicians) on 7 point Likert scale. The panel constructed a conceptual framework and a definition of HRQoL in PD in context of available guidelines for developing patient reported outcome measures. Results: The extracted domains were physical, non motor symptom, psychological, family/social, finance and treatment domains. Median of all six domains on 7 point Likert scale was 7 and inter-quartile distance was <1 in consensus agreement. The conceptual framework consisted of indicator domains and causal domains. Indicator domains (physical, psychological, and social and family) estimate the influence of causal domains (motor symptoms, non motor symptoms, finance and treatment) on quality of life. The definition emphasizes upon the person's perception of their symptoms and its impact on their lives. Conclusion: This study defined and developed a conceptual framework for HRQoL scale for PD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: High burden of anaemia exists amongst rural adolescent girls in India. The objective of this study was to characterise anaemia in school going adolescent girls in rural Haryana, India. Design: Linear and multiple logistic regression analysis of data collected prior to an intervention trial was conducted. Participants were classified into anaemic (haemoglobin <12 g/dl) and non-anaemic group and were further classified into deficiencies of Fe, folate or vitamin B12, mixed, anaemia of other causes and inflammation. Setting: Three schools in Ballabgarh block of Faridabad District, Haryana, India. Participants: One hundered and ninety-eight non-anaemic and 202 anaemic adolescent girls (12–19 years). Results: Anaemic girls had 29·6 % Fe deficiency, 28·1 % folate or vitamin B12 deficiency, 15·8 % mixed deficiency and 9·7 % acute inflammation. Anaemia of other causes was found in 16·8 % of the anaemic participants. Girls with Fe and isolated folate deficiency had 2·5 times and four times higher odds of developing anaemia, respectively, as compared with non-anaemic girls. Fe deficiency with no anaemia was found amongst 11 % non-anaemic girls. Non-anaemic girls had a high prevalence of combined deficiency of folate or vitamin B12 (29·5 %) and acute inflammation (14·4 %). Conclusions: The current strategy of Fe and folic acid supplementation alone will not suffice for achieving the desired reduction in the prevalence of anaemia as unknown causes and anaemia of inflammation contribute to a substantial proportion of anaemia. Integrating other nutrition-specific components like improving water, sanitation and hygiene practices with the ongoing micronutrient supplementation program will comprehensively tackle anaemia. Unknown causes of anaemia warrant further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & objectives: Studies assessing the spatial and temporal association of ambient air pollution with emergency room visits of patients having acute respiratory symptoms in Delhi are lacking. Therefore, the present study explored the relationship between spatio-temporal variation of particulate matter (PM)2.5 concentrations and air quality index (AQI) with emergency room (ER) visits of patients having acute respiratory symptoms in Delhi using the geographic information system (GIS) approach. Methods: The daily number of ER visits of patients having acute respiratory symptoms (less than or equal to two weeks) was recorded from the ER of four hospitals of Delhi from March 2018 to February 2019. Daily outdoor PM2.5 concentrations and air quality index (AQI) were obtained from the Delhi Pollution Control Committee. Spatial distribution of patients with acute respiratory symptoms visiting ER, PM2.5 concentrations and AQI were mapped for three seasons of Delhi using ArcGIS software. Results: Of the 70,594 patients screened from ER, 18,063 eligible patients were enrolled in the study. Winter days had poor AQI compared to moderate and satisfactory AQI during summer and monsoon days, respectively. None of the days reported good AQI (<50). During winters, an increase in acute respiratory ER visits of patients was associated with higher PM2.5 concentrations in the highly polluted northwest region of Delhi. In contrast, a lower number of acute respiratory ER visits of patients were seen from the ‘moderately polluted’ south-west region of Delhi with relatively lower PM2.5 concentrations. Interpretation & conclusions: Acute respiratory ER visits of patients were related to regional PM2.5 concentrations and AQI that differed during the three seasons of Delhi. The present study provides [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Systematic reviews conducted on sleep disturbances in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have found inconsistent results due to the presence of several moderating variables which were not controlled for in previous studies. The aim of this study was to examine sleep disturbances in children with ADHD compared to their typically developing peers after controlling for moderating variables (age, sex, medication status, body mass index, and psychiatric and medical comorbidities). Methods: ADHD was diagnosed using DSM-IV-TR criteria (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) and Conners' Parent Rating Scales. Children recruited (aged 6–12 years) for the ADHD group (n = 40) met the following criteria: IQ > 80, unmedicated, and no psychiatric or medical comorbidities. The control group consisted of age- and sex-matched typically developing peers (n = 40). Sleep was assessed subjectively (through parent reported questionnaires and sleep logs) and objectively (using video polysomnography). Results: 65% of children with ADHD had a sleep disorder, as compared to 17% of controls. The ADHD group reported more sleep disturbances and disorders, both on subjective measures and objective measures. Conclusions: Sleep disturbances and primary sleep disorders in children with ADHD exist independent of moderating variables and differences in sleep assessment methods, thereby bolstering support for previously documented literature on the ADHD and sleep connection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To compare the efficacy of a Neurofacilitation of Developmental Reaction (NFDR) approach with that of a Conventional approach in the modulation of tone in children with neurodevelopmental delay. Methods: Experimental control design. A total of 30 spastic children ranging in age from 4 to 7 years with neurodevelopmental delay were included. Baseline evaluations of muscle tone and gross motor functional performance abilities were performed. The children were allocated into two intervention groups of 15 subjects each. In groups A and B, the NFDR and conventional approaches were applied, respectively, for 3 months and were followed by subsequent re-evaluations. Results: Between group analyses were performed using independent t test for tone and primitive reflex intensity and a Mann-Whitney U test for gross motor functional ability. For the within-group analyses, paired t tests were used for tone and primitive reflex intensity, and a Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used for gross motor functional ability. Conclusion: The NFDR approach/technique prepares the muscle to undergo tonal modulation and thereby enhances motor development and improves the motor functional performance abilities of the children with neurodevelopmental delay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Evaluation of fluorescein along with blue dye as an affordable tracer for sentinel node biopsy in comparison with technetium + methylene blue. A randomized trial was conducted with the following objectives: (1) to demonstrate that the identification of sentinel lymph node by fluorescein + methylene blue is not inferior to the identification by Tc-99 m sulfur colloid + methylene blue and (2) to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of sentinel node biopsy by above two tracers. Subjects and Methods: One-thirty patients above age 18 years presenting with early breast cancer T1, T2, N0 breast carcinoma were randomized to undergo sentinel node biopsy by either fluorescein + methylene blue or Tc-99 m sulfur colloid + methylene blue. Results: The sentinel lymph nodes were identified in 89% in Fluorescein + methylene blue group and 90.9% with Tc-99 m sulfur colloid + methylene blue group. The trial demonstrated noninferiority of fluorescein + methylene blue as compared to isotope + methylene blue with effect size = 1; 95% confidence interval-9.54 to + 11.54. The fluorescein + methylene blue was more cost-effective than isotope guided sentinel node biopsy. Conclusion: Fluorescein-guided sentinel node biopsy is noninferior and more cost-effective than isotope-guided sentinel node biopsy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Hand-foot syndrome (HFS) is a common cutaneous side effect of capecitabine therapy. Apart from oral cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor (celecoxib), there are no proven strategies for the prevention of HFS. However, celecoxib is associated with significant cardiotoxicity. To date, no study has evaluated the role of topical COX inhibitor, diclofenac. In this study, we aim to compare topical 1% diclofenac gel with placebo in the prevention of capecitabine-induced HFS.Methods: This is a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, parallel-group superiority trial: the Diclofenac Topical in Reducing Capecitabine induced HFS (D-TORCH) study. A total of 264 patients with breast and gastrointestinal malignancies will be randomly allocated (stratified by sex and type of therapy [monotherapy or combination regimen with capecitabine]) to receive either 1% topical diclofenac or placebo that will be applied over the palmar and dorsal surface of the hands twice daily whilst taking capecitabine for 12 weeks. The patients will be followed up until the end of four cycles. The primary objective of this study is to compare the effect of topical diclofenac with placebo in preventing HFS (incidence of NCI CTCAEv5.0 grade 2 or higher HFS). The secondary objective is to compare the effect of topical diclofenac with placebo on preventing all grades of HFS (incidence of NCI CTCv5.0 all grade HFS), time to develop HFS (from the start of capecitabine), patient-reported outcomes (PROs) (HF-HRQoL questionnaire), adherence with the application (self-reported), capecitabine dose changes (number of patients with dose modifications due to HFS) and safety profile (NCICTCv5.0 all grade HFS) DISCUSSION: The D-TORCH study aims to determine if 1% topical diclofenac reduces the incidence of grade 2 or higher HFS in patients receiving capecitabine. To date, there have been a lot of trials for hand-foot syndrome prevention using agents like pyridoxine, vitamin E, carvedilol, and various polyherbal formulations, but none has been found successful. If the trial meets the primary end point, 1% topical diclofenac will be the new standard of care for HFS prevention.Trial Registration: Clinical Trials Registry of India  CTRI/2021/01/030592 . Prospectively registered on January 19, 2021. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Progress has been made in the reduction of under-five mortality in India; however, neonatal mortality is reducing at a slower rate. Efforts are required to bring down neonatal mortality in order to attain the Sustainable Development Goal-3. Prevention of sepsis among the high-risk, vulnerable low birth weight neonates by a newer intervention with probiotic supplementation is promising.Methods: A phase III, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study is being conducted at six sites in India. A total of 6144 healthy low birth weight (LBW) infants fulfilling the eligibility criteria would be enrolled within the first week of life, after obtaining written informed consent from the parents of the infant. Randomization in 1:1 ratio, stratified by site, sex, and birth weight, would be done through an interactive web response system (IWRS) using a standard web browser and email service. Vivomixx®, a probiotic containing a mix of 8 strains of bacteria, in a suspension form standardized to deliver 10 billion CFU/ml, or an organoleptically similar placebo would be fed to enrolled infants in a 1-ml/day dose for 30 days. The follow-up of enrolled infants for 60 days would take place as per a pre-specified schedule for recording morbidities and outcome assessments at the six participating sites. Screening for morbidities would be conducted by trained field workers in the community, and sick infants would be referred to designated clinics/hospitals. A physician would examine the referred infants presenting with complaints and clinical signs, and blood samples would be collected from sick infants for diagnosis of neonatal sepsis by performing sepsis screen and blood culture. Appropriate treatment would be provided as per hospital protocol. The study would be implemented as per the MRC guideline for the management of Global Health Trials in accordance with ICH-GCP and Indian Regulatory guidelines. A contract research organization would be engaged for comprehensive monitoring and quality assurance. The final analysis would be conducted in a blinded manner as per the statistical analysis plan (SAP) to estimate the primary outcomes of sepsis, possible serious bacterial infection (PSBI), and secondary outcomes. The codes will be broken after DMC permission. The protocol has been reviewed by the Research Ethics Committee of the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (REC-LSTM), from Research Ethics Committees of the six subject recruitment participating sites.Discussion: This adequately powered and well-designed trial would conclusively answer the question whether probiotics can prevent neonatal sepsis in the high-risk group of low birth weight infants as indicated by a pilot study in 1340 LBW infants, evidence from systematic reviews of hospital-based studies, and a primary study on healthy newborns in Orissa. Results of the study would be generalizable to India and other low-middle-income countries.Trial Registration: Clinical Trial Registry of India (CTRI) CTRI/2019/05/019197 . Registered on 16 May 2019. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early-stage diagnosis of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is difficult due to non-specific symptoms. Circulating miRNAs in body fluids have been emerging as potential non-invasive biomarkers for diagnosis of many cancers. Thus, this study aimed to assess a panel of miRNAs for their ability to differentiate PDAC from chronic pancreatitis (CP), a benign inflammatory condition of the pancreas. Next-generation sequencing was performed to identify miRNAs present in 60 FFPE tissue samples (27 PDAC, 23 CP and 10 normal pancreatic tissues). Four up-regulated miRNAs (miR-215-5p, miR-122-5p, miR-192-5p, and miR-181a-2-3p) and four down-regulated miRNAs (miR-30b-5p, miR-216b-5p, miR-320b, and miR-214-5p) in PDAC compared to CP were selected based on next-generation sequencing results. The levels of these 8 differentially expressed miRNAs were measured by qRT-PCR in 125 serum samples (50 PDAC, 50 CP, and 25 healthy controls (HC)). The results showed significant upregulation of miR-215-5p, miR-122-5p, and miR-192-5p in PDAC serum samples. In contrast, levels of miR-30b-5p and miR-320b were significantly lower in PDAC as compared to CP and HC. ROC analysis showed that these 5 miRNAs can distinguish PDAC from both CP and HC. Hence, this panel can serve as a non-invasive biomarker for the early detection of PDAC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The objectives of this study were to evaluate ENDIT score and develop a novel outcome prediction score for outcome of pediatric convulsive status epilepticus (CSE) at the hospital and 3 months postdischarge. Methods: Children and adolescents aged 1 month to 14 years, presenting with CSE to a tertiary care teaching center in North India from January 2017 to March 2019, were screened for enrollment. In‐hospital and 3‐month postdischarge outcome were defined as poor if Pediatric Cerebral Performance Category Scale (PCPCS) score dropped by ≥2 levels. Results: Overall, 61 patients were enrolled for final analysis after applying exclusion and inclusion criteria. The area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve for ENDIT score in predicting mortality and differentiating good from poor outcome at the hospital and at 3 months postdischarge was 0.74 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.58‐0.89), 0.7 (95% CI = 0.57‐0.83), and 0.72 (95% CI = 0.6‐0.82), respectively. Based on predictors in the present cohort that were significantly different between good and poor outcome cases at the hospital and 3 months postdischarge, a new six‐point score named PEDSS (pre–status epilepticus PCPCS, background electroencephalographic abnormalities, drug refractoriness, semiology, and critical sickness) was developed. The area under ROC curves for PEDSS score in predicting mortality and differentiating good from poor outcome at the hospital and at 3 months postdischarge were 0.93 (95% CI = 0.87‐0.99), 0.8 (95% CI = 0.7‐0.9), and 0.89 (95% CI = 0.8‐0.96), respectively. The best cutoff PEDSS scores for predicting mortality and poor outcome at the hospital and at 3 months postdischarge were ≥4, ≥3, and ≥3, respectively. Significance: The PEDSS score has high predictive accuracy for mortality and differentiating good from poor outcome at the hospital and 3 months postdischarge in pediatric CSE. Future studies should be planned to validate it in various geographical and health care settings and in adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plasmodium infections are co-endemic with infections caused by other agents of acute febrile illnesses, such as dengue virus (DENV), chikungunya virus, Leptospira spp., and Orientia tsutsugamushi. However, co-infections may influence disease severity, treatment outcomes, and development of drug resistance. When we analyzed cases of acute febrile illness at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India, from July 2017 through September 2018, we found that most patients with malaria harbored co-infections (Plasmodium mixed species and other pathogens). DENV was the most common malaria co-infection (44% of total infections). DENV serotype 4 was associated with mild malaria, and Leptospira was associated with severe malaria. We also found the presence of P. knowlesi in our study population. Therefore, in areas with a large number of severe malaria cases, diagnostic screening for all 4 DENV serotypes, Leptospira, and all Plasmodium species should be performed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Autonomic dysfunction forms the diagnostic cornerstone in MSA. Data are limited on autonomic dysfunction differences between the two subtypes, MSA‐C and MSA‐P. Objectives: To assess autonomic dysfunction in MSA subtypes and Parkinson's disease (PD) and compare it to healthy controls. Methods: We conducted a cross‐sectional study. A validated questionnaire (Scales for Outcomes in Parkinson's Disease–Autonomic Dysfunction; SCOPA‐AUT) was used for symptom screening. Cardiovascular autonomic testing included deep breathing (change in heart rate, E: I ratio), Valsalva ratio, diastolic blood pressure (BP) rise (hand grip, cold pressor), and postural (tilt, 30:15 ratio) tests. Disease severity was assessed by the Unified MSA Rating Scale (UMSARS), H & Y stage, and International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating scale part III. Results: MSA‐P (48 subjects; age, 63.6 ± 9.7 years; UMSARS, 45.0 ± 16.5), MSA‐C (52 subjects; age, 58.0 ± 8.1 years; UMSARS, 44.0 ± 12.8), PD (50 subjects; age, 57.6 ± 6.7 years), and healthy controls (50 subjects; age, 58.0 ± 8.0 years) were enrolled. MSA patients had higher SCOPA‐AUT scores in gastrointestinal, urinary, cardiovascular, and sexual domains than controls and in gastrointestinal, urinary, and cardiovascular domains compared to PD. The two MSA subtypes did not differ in autonomic dysfunction. Heart‐rate change on tilt and deep breathing, and diastolic BP rise on cold pressor test, differed significantly between MSA and PD patients. Conclusions: Autonomic dysfunction symptomatology and cardiovascular autonomic tests were similar between MSA‐P and MSA‐C patients. Autonomic symptoms were more prominent in MSA than PD. Emphasis on these domains may improve likelihood of accurate clinical diagnosis of MSA at earlier stages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Office cystoscopy may be associated with urinary tract infection (UTI) in up to 10–20% of patients. Current practice of surgical part preparation in males with povidone-iodine excludes distal urethra in males, leaving a possibility for resident intra-urethral flora to cause post-procedural UTI. We designed this randomized study to assess whether additional cleaning of distal urethra with povidone-iodine solution can help reduce post-procedural incidence of UTIs in this setting. Additionally, urethral swab culture was done in the entire cohort to identify the prevalent microflora in the distal male urethra and to evaluate its role in causation of post-procedural UTI. Using a specialized urethral swab culture methodology, 85% males demonstrated some bacteria and 16% showed common uro-pathogens. 28 (14.5%) cases had post-procedure culture positive UTI. The incidence of UTI in control group (22%) was significantly more than the intervention group (7%) (p value <0.007). This result strongly supports inclusion of distal urethral irrigation with povidone-iodine in males before office cystoscopy, even when pre-procedure mid-stream urine culture is sterile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The coverage of community-based maternal, neonatal, and child health (MNCH) services remains low, especially in hard-to-reach areas. We evaluated the effectiveness of a mobile-phone-and web-based application, Innovative Mobile-phone Technology for Community Health Operations (ImTeCHO), as a job aid to the government's Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) and Primary Health Center (PHC) staff to improve coverage of MNCH services in rural tribal communities of Gujarat, India.Methods and Findings: This open cluster-randomized trial was conducted in 22 PHCs in six tribal blocks of Bharuch and Narmada districts in India. The ImTeCHO mobile-phone-and web-based application included various technology-based job aids to facilitate scheduling of home visits, screening for complications, counseling during home visits, and supportive supervision by PHC staff. Primary outcome indicators were a composite index calculated based on coverage of important MNCH services and coverage of at least two home visitations by ASHA within the first week of birth. Primary analysis was intention to treat (ITT). Generalized Estimating Equation (GEE) was used to account for clustering. Eleven PHCs each were randomly allocated to the intervention (280 ASHAs, population: 234,134) and control (281 ASHAs, population: 242,809) arms. The intervention was implemented from February, 2016 to January, 2017. At the end of the implementation, 6,493 mothers were surveyed. Most of the surveyed women were tribal (5,571, 85.8%), and reported having a government-issued certificate for living below poverty line (4,916, 75.7%). The coverage of at least two home visits within first week of birth was 32.4% in the intervention clusters compared to 22.9% in the control clusters (adjusted effect size 10.2 [95% CI: 6.4, 14.0], p < 0.001). Mean number of home visits within first week of birth was 1.11 and 0.80 for intervention and control clusters, respectively (adjusted effect size 0.34 [95% CI: 0.23, 0.45], p < 0.001). The composite coverage index was 43.0% in the intervention clusters compared to 38.5% (adjusted effect size 4.9 [95% CI: 0.2, 9.5], p = 0.03) in the control clusters. There were substantial improvements in coverage home visits by ASHAs during antenatal period (adjusted effect size 15.7 [95% CI: 11.0, 20.4], p < 0.001), postnatal period (adjusted effect size 6.4, [95% CI: 3.2, 9.6], p <0.001), early initiation of breastfeeding (adjusted effect size 7.8 [95% CI: 4.2, 11.4], p < 0.001), and exclusive breastfeeding (adjusted effect size 13.4 [95% CI: 8.9, 17.9], p < 0.001). Number of infant and neonatal deaths was similar in the two arms in the ITT analysis. The limitations of the study include potential risk of inaccuracies in reporting events that occurred during pregnancy by the mothers and the duration of intervention being 12 months, which might be considered short.Conclusions: In this study, we found that use of ImTeCHO mobile- and web-based application as a job aid by government ASHAs and PHC staff improved coverage and quality of MNCH services in hard-to-reach areas. Supportive supervision, change management, and timely resolution of technology-related issues were critical implementation considerations to ensure adherence to the intervention.Trial Registration: Study was registered at the Clinical Trial Registry of India (www.ctri.nic.in). Trial number: CTRI/2015/06/005847. The trial was registered (prospective) on 3 June, 2015. First enrollment was done on 26 August, 2015. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Characterisation of anaemia amongst school going adolescent girls in rural Haryana, India - CORRIGENDUM In the published article, the authors overlooked mentioning that 0.5g/dl was added to the original hemoglobin values to correct for the difference using direct and indirect cyanmethaemoglobin method. Characterisation of anaemia amongst school going adolescent girls in rural Haryana, India. [Extracted from the article]

Introduction: The role of heavy metals in the etio-pathogenesis of ASD is controversial. Paucity of studies from Indian subcontinent with different sociocultural and environmental background prompted the present study. Methods: Sixty children aged three to 12 years with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and 60 age matched controls were enrolled. Detailed history including possible exposure history to various heavy metals was taken. Severity of ASD was assessed using Childhood Autism Rating Scale 2. Blood level of metals was estimated by Inductively coupled plasma - atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES). Results: Mean blood mercury levels in the two groups of ASD and controls was comparable (p = 0.28). Median blood cadmium and arsenic levels were higher in controls possibly due to higher ground water use and insecticide exposure. (7/60 versus 17/60, p = 0.04) and (2/60 versus 7/60, p = 0.08) while mean blood zinc level was lower in controls. Lead was significantly higher in greater proportion of children with ASD. (11/60 vs 1/60, p = 0.002). Children with ASD had significantly higher pica (26/60 versus 10/60, p = 0.001) and higher median number of days of antibiotics during infancy (24.5 (0-120) versus 15 (0-60), p = 0.004). None of the heavy metal tested had significant correlation with the severity of ASD. Conclusions: Mean blood mercury, lead, zinc, arsenic and cadmium did not show significant association with diagnosis of ASD. High levels of toxic metals in both children with ASD and controls points towards an urgent need to contain environmental pollution by heavy metals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Purpose: Differentiating between neurocysticercosis (NCC) and neurotuberculosis has serious therapeutic implications and this distinction relies heavily on neuroimaging. Few case reports discuss the conglomeration of ring-enhancing lesions (RELs) in patients with solitary NCC. The aim of our study is to describe the imaging findings of conglomerate RELs in a cohort of patients with solitary NCC, emphasizing the frequency of conglomeration. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study included 100 patients with solitary NCC. Two neuroradiologists analyzed contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) images regarding morphology, enhancement pattern, location, number of lesions, and degree of perilesional edema. The solitary lesions were classified as solitary discrete RELs (SD-RELs) when a well-defined lesion was seen and solitary conglomerate RELs (SC-RELs) when two or more ring lesions or ring/rings plus disc lesions were present contiguously. Follow-up CT scans were evaluated for the resolution of lesions and surrounding edema. Results: Out of 100 patients, 42 were SD-RELs and 58 were SC-RELs. No statistically significant difference was found between both groups in terms of age of presentation, clinical presentation, lesion size and location, and degree of perilesional edema. Larger lesions (>10 mm) were more likely to show scolex and were associated with greater degree of edema in both subgroups. During follow-up, 13 patients had new lesions (SD-RELs-5, SC-RELs-8). In SD-RELs, follow-up lesions were in the same location in four patients and new location in one; and in SC-RELs, lesions were in the same location in seven and in new location in one case. Conclusion: Conglomeration of RELs is a common finding in patients with solitary NCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hypertension (HTN) and diabetes mellitus (DM) both are rapidly emerging as public health problems among geriatric population in developing countries. HTN can lead to stroke, myocardial infarction, congestive heart failure, and chronic kidney diseases among geriatric population. DM increases the risk of coronary heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, peripheral vascular disease, retinopathy, nephropathy, and neuropathy among geriatric population. Methodology: A community‑based, cross‑sectional study was conducted during 2015–2016 in District Nainital, Uttarakhand. A list of all villages with their population in the district was developed. From this list, 30 villages were identified using population proportionate to size sampling method. From each village, 30 geriatric subjects were selected. A total of 1003 geriatric subjects age 60 years and above were included in the study. Data were collected on sociodemographic profile, blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, anthropometry, and lipid profile from all the enrolled subjects. The prevalence of HTN and DM was assessed. Univariate and multivariate analyses were done to identify risk factors associated with HTN and DM. Results: The prevalence of HTN and DM was found to be 54.5% and 14.6%, respectively. For HTN, advancing age, high educational level and body mass index (BMI) (≥25 kg/m2) and for DM higher education level and BMI (≥25 kg/m2) were found to be significant risk factors. Conclusion: A high prevalence of HTN and DM was found in geriatric population residing in rural area of Uttarakhand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report here a simple, easy-to-practice treatment procedure for anaemia, by focusing on withdrawal of fluoride consumption and promotion of nutrients through diet. The approach to improve nutrient intake as supplementation of iron and folic acid or iron tonic does not yield beneficial results. The reason being highly destructive F- enters the body through food, water, habit forming substances and dental products destroys the lining of the intestine and prevents absorption of nutrients. Testing of Hb, F- in urine, drinking water and body mass index are necessary to assess the problem. The study was made on 2420 adolescent students from 6 schools in Delhi. F-removal through diet editing and improved nutrients through counselling without prescription of drugs led to correction of anaemia. This treatment procedure is beneficial to pregnant and lactating mothers and patients in hospital OPDs due to ill health issues aggravated due to low Hb/anaemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess the prevalence and risk factors of underweight, overweight and obesity among a geriatric population living in a high-altitude region of India.Design: Community-based cross-sectional study. Data were collected on sociodemographic profile and anthropometric parameters. Weight and height measurements were utilized for calculation of BMI. Nutrient intake data were collected using 24 h dietary recall.Setting: High-altitude region of Nainital District, Uttarakhand State, North India.Subjects: Community-dwelling geriatric subjects (n 981) aged 60 years or above.Results: We found that 26·6 % of the elderly subjects were underweight (BMI<18·5 kg/m2). Overweight (BMI 25·0-29·9 kg/m2) and obesity (BMI≥30·0 kg/m2) was seen among 18·0 % and 4·6 %, respectively. After controlling for potential cofounders, risk factors such as low level of education and income, chewing problems and lower number of daily meals were found to be associated with underweight. On the other hand, risk factors for overweight/obesity were lower age, high income and unskilled work.Conclusions: There is a need to develop and implement intervention strategies to prevent underweight, overweight and obesity among the geriatric population of India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Recently, an increasing trend in the prevalence of pediatric metabolic syndrome (PMS) among school-age children has been documented in different parts of India. There is lack of data on the prevalence of PMS and its associated risk factors among school-age children living in district Shimla, Himachal Pradesh. Hence, to fill in the gap in the existing knowledge, the present study was conducted. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted during 2015-2016. Thirty clusters (schools) were identified from a list of all schools using population proportionate to size sampling methodology. From each school, 70 children in the age group of 10-16 years were selected. Data was collected on the sociodemographic characteristics, anthropometry, waist circumference, blood pressure, and physical activity. Fasting venous blood samples were collected for estimation of blood glucose, triglycerides, and high-density lipoprotein levels. Results: The prevalence of PMS using International Diabetes Federation classification was 3.3% and using modified-adult treatment panel classification criteria was 3.5%. Risk factors identified to be associated with PMS among school-age children were (i) male gender, (ii) high family monthly income, (iii) sedentary lifestyle, (iv) consumption of evening snack, (v) television/computer viewing, and (vi) motorized transportation for commuting to school. Conclusion: The PMS prevalence was 3.3% in school-age children residing in District Shimla. There is a need to formulate interventions to prevent and correct metabolic syndrome among them for reducing early onset of cardiovascular disease during adulthood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. There is lack of reliable predictors of disease severity and mortality in dengue. The present study was carried out to identify these predictors during the 2015 outbreak in India. Methods. This prospective observational study included confirmed adult dengue patients hospitalized between August and November 2015 in a tertiary care centre in New Delhi, India. Appropriate statistical tests were used to compare clinicolaboratory characteristics, derive predictors of severe disease and mortality, and compute a predictive score for mortality. Serotyping was done. Results. Data of 369 patients were analyzed (mean age, 30.9 years; 67% males). Of these, 198 (54%) patients had dengue fever, 125 (34%) had dengue hemorrhagic fever (grade 1 or 2), and 46 (12%) developed dengue shock syndrome (DSS). Twenty-two (6%) patients died. Late presentation to the hospital (≥5 days after onset) and dyspnea at rest were identified as independent predictors of severe disease. Age ≥24 years, dyspnea at rest and altered sensorium were identified as independent predictors of mortality. A clinical risk score was developed (12*age + 14*sensorium + 10*dyspnea), which, if ≥22, predicted mortality with a high sensitivity (81.8%) and specificity (79.2%). The predominant serotypes in Delhi (2015) were dengue virus DENV2 and DENV4. Conclusion. Age ≥24 years, dyspnea at rest, and altered sensorium were identified as independent predictors of mortality. Platelet counts did not determine outcome in dengue patients. Timely referral/access to healthcare is important. The clinical risk score for mortality prediction that was developed in this study can be used in all healthcare settings, after validation in larger cohorts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. There is lack of reliable predictors of disease severity and mortality in dengue. The present study was carried out to identify these predictors during the 2015 outbreak in India. Methods. This prospective observational study included confirmed adult dengue patients hospitalized between August and November 2015 in a tertiary care centre in New Delhi, India. Appropriate statistical tests were used to compare clinicolaboratory characteristics, derive predictors of severe disease and mortality, and compute a predictive score for mortality. Serotyping was done. Results. Data of 369 patients were analyzed (mean age, 30.9 years; 67% males). Of these, 198 (54%) patients had dengue fever, 125 (34%) had dengue hemorrhagic fever (grade 1 or 2), and 46 (12%) developed dengue shock syndrome (DSS). Twenty-two (6%) patients died. Late presentation to the hospital (≥5 days after onset) and dyspnea at rest were identified as independent predictors of severe disease. Age ≥24 years, dyspnea at rest and altered sensorium were identified as independent predictors of mortality. A clinical risk score was developed (12*age + 14*sensorium + 10*dyspnea), which, if ≥22, predicted mortality with a high sensitivity (81.8%) and specificity (79.2%). The predominant serotypes in Delhi (2015) were dengue virus DENV2 and DENV4. Conclusion. Age ≥24 years, dyspnea at rest, and altered sensorium were identified as independent predictors of mortality. Platelet counts did not determine outcome in dengue patients. Timely referral/access to healthcare is important. The clinical risk score for mortality prediction that was developed in this study can be used in all healthcare settings, after validation in larger cohorts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Uttarakhand (UK) state is a known endemic region to iodine deficiency (ID). Objective: To assess the current status of iodine nutrition in a population of UK. Methodology: Three districts, namely Udham Singh Nagar (USN), Nainital (N), and Pauri Garhwal (PG) were selected. In each district, 30 clusters were identified by utilizing the population proportional to size cluster sampling methodology. Total of 6143 school age children (SAC) (USN; 1807, N; 2269, PG: 2067), 5430 adolescent girls (AGs) (USN; 1823, N; 1811, PG: 1796), 1727 pregnant mothers (PMs) (USN; 632, N; 614, PG: 481), and 2013 Neonates (USN; 649, N; 670, PG: 694), were included in the study. Clinical examination of thyroid of each child, AG and PM was conducted. Spot urine and salt samples were collected from children, AGs and PMs. Cord blood samples were collected from neonates for estimation of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). Results: In SAC, total goiter rate (TGR) was 13.2% (USN), 15.9% (N), and 16.8% (PG). Median urinary iodine concentration (UIC) level was 150 µg/l (USN), 125 µg/l (N), and 115 µg/l (PG). In AGs, TGR was 6.8% (USN), 8.2% (N) and 5.6% (PG). Median UIC level was 250 µg/l (USN), 200 µg/l (N), and 183 µg/l (PG). In PMs, TGR was 16.1% (USN), 20.2% (N), and 24.9% (PG). Median UIC level was 124 µg/l (USN), 117.5 µg/l (N) and 110 µg/l (PG), respectively. In Neonates, TSH levels of >5 mIU/L were found in 55.3 (USN), 76.4 (N) and 72.8 (PG) percent of neonates. Conclusion: UIC level in PMs and TSH levels among neonates indicate the prevalence of ID in three districts surveyed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate body fat patterning and phenotype including hepatic fat and pancreatic volume of non-obese (BMI: < 25 kg/m2) Asian Indians with type 2 diabetes residing in North India. Methods: Non-obese patients with type 2 diabetes (n = 93) and non-obese, normo-glycemic subjects (n = 40) were recruited. BMI, waist & hip circumferences, skinfold thickness at 8 sites, body fat, lean mass and detailed abdominal fat evaluation [total abdominal fat, total subcutaneous fat (superficial, deep, anterior, and posterior), total intra-abdominal fat (intra-peritoneal, retroperitoneal)], liver span, grades of fatty liver and pancreatic volume were compared. Results: Waist circumference, subscapular skinfolds and total truncal fat (on DEXA) were higher whereas calf, total peripheral skinfolds and total leg fat (on DEXA) lower in patients. Specifically, the following volumes were higher in cases as compared to controls; total abdominal fat (19.4%), total intra-abdominal fat (49.7%), intra-peritoneal fat (47.7%), retroperitoneal fat (70.7%), pancreatic volume (26.6%), pancreatic volume index (21.3%) and liver span (10.8%). In cases, significant positive correlations were observed for pancreatic volume with BMI, waist and hip circumferences, W-HR, subscapular, abdominal and total truncal skinfolds, truncal, total subcutaneous, total intra-abdominal, intra-peritoneal, retroperitoneal fat depots, liver span and fatty liver. Conclusions: In non-obese Asian Indians with type 2 diabetes, subcutaneous and intra-abdominal obesity, including fatty liver, and pancreatic volume were higher and peripheral subcutaneous adiposity was lower than BMI matched non-diabetic subjects. Importantly, increased pancreatic volume in patients was highly correlated with multiple measures of abdominal obesity and liver fat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: In India, Vitamin D deficiency is a major public health problem, associated with lack of sunlight exposure in spite of abundant sunshine usually accompanied by reduced dietary intake. In women of reproductive age, Vitamin D deficiency in pregnancy has been associated with an increased risk of gestational diabetes mellitus, preeclampsia, maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. Aims: The aim of the present cross-sectional study was to evaluate the levels of serum Vitamin D 25(OH) D and calcium in women of reproductive age from India. Settings and Design: A cross-sectional study was carried on a total of 224 healthy nonpregnant and nonlactating women in the reproductive age group of 20-49 years. Materials and Methods: Demographic, socioeconomic class, and biochemical parameters for the estimation of serum 25(OH)D and calcium levels in women of reproductive age were studied. Statistical Analysis: Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 20.0 was utilized for conducting the statistical analysis of the data. Results: Vitamin D deficiency (<20 ng/ml) was present in 88% of women. Women from middle socioeconomic class had the lowest mean serum 25(OH) D levels (9.6 ± 6 ng/ml) as compared to women from upper middle (11.4 ± 8 ng/ml), lower (11.2 ± 8 ng/ml), and upper (10 ± 8.6 ng/ml) socioeconomic class. Serum calcium levels were found in the normal range of 8.5-10.5 mg/dl for all the study subjects. Conclusions: There is a high prevalence of hypovitaminosis D among women of reproductive age. These women may possibly have a higher risk of development of osteoporosis and pregnancy-related complications in future life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although sepsis is one of the leading causes of mortality in hospitalized patients, information regarding early predictive factors for mortality and morbidity is limited. Materials and Methods: Patients fulfilling the Infectious Disease Society of America criteria of sepsis within the medical intensive care unit (ICU) were included over two years. Apart from baseline hematological, biochemical, and metabolic parameters, Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II), Simplified Acute Physiology Score II and III (SAPS II and SAPS III), and Sequential Organ Function Assessment (SOFA) scores were calculated on day 1 of admission. Patients were followed till death or discharge from the ICU. Results: One hundred patients were enrolled over two years (54% males). The overall mortality was 53%, (69.5% in females, 38.8% in males (P < 0.01). Mortality was 65.7%, 55.7%, and 33.3% in patients with septic shock, severe sepsis, and sepsis, respectively. Patients who died were significantly older than the survivors (mean age, 57.37 ± 20.42 years and 44.29 ± 15.53 years respectively, P < 0.01). Nonsurvivors were significantly more anemic and had higher APACHE II, SAPS II, SAPS III, and SOFA scores. The presence of acute respiratory distress syndrome and renal dysfunction were associated with higher mortality (75% and 70.2%, respectively). There was no significant difference in the duration of mechanical ventilation or ICU stay between survivors and nonsurvivors. On multivariate analysis, significant predictors of mortality with odds ratio greater than 2 included the presence of anemia, SAPS II score greater than 35, SAPS III score greater than 47, and SOFA score greater than 6 at day 1 of admission. Conclusion: Several demographic and laboratory parameters as well as composite critical illness scoring systems are reliable early predictors of mortality in sepsis. A sepsis mortality prediction formula (AIIMS Sepsis Score) based on SAPS II, SAPS III, and SOFA scores and hemoglobin has greater predictive power than these scoring methods individually. Routine use of critical illness scoring systems and a composite mortality prediction formula may provide useful early prognostic information in sepsis/severe sepsis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Valproate is a commonly used anticonvulsant drug. Uridine 5'-diphospho (UDP)-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) contributes to around 50% of valproate metabolism and its polymorphisms may be important for explaining the considerable variation in valproate levels in patients with epilepsy. Aim: This study was aimed to analyze the genetic polymorphisms of UGT1A6 in Indian children with epilepsy and their potential influence on the pharmacokinetics of valproate. Setting and Design: This cross-sectional study was carried out in the Department of Pediatrics, All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, between March 2011 and July 2012. Materials and Methods: Children aged 3-12 years diagnosed with epilepsy on valproate monotherapy for at least 1 month were enrolled. They underwent a detailed clinical examination. The UGT1A6 polymorphisms were detected by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP). Random samples were checked by genetic sequencing. The steady-state plasma concentrations of valproate were measured by High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and associated with UGT1A6 polymorphisms. Results: A total of 80 children were studied. The prevalence of UGT1A6 T19G was as follows: TT (45%), TG (38.8%), and GG (16.3%); that of UGT1A6 A541G was: AA (48.8%), AG (38.8%), and GG (12.5%); and that of UGT1A6 A552C was: AA (43.8%), AC (40%), and CC (16.3%). The association between valproate doses or standardized serum valproate concentration and the various UGT1A6 genotypes could not be studied reliably in this small study population. Conclusions: The frequencies of UGT1A6 geneotypes and alleles were reported in the study population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the research related to the obesity in diabetic patients. It focuses on the comparison of the of the total intra-abdominal adipose tissue (IAAT), liver span, and pancreatic volume in diabetics with the body mass index (BMI) matched non-diabetic subjects, with the information on receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis.