Chemiluminescent Microparticle Immunoassay Method Research Articles

The Anti-SARS-CoV-2 S-Protein IgG, Which Is Detected Using the Chemiluminescence Microparticle Immunoassay (CMIA) in Individuals Having Either a History of COVID-19 Vaccination and/or SARS-CoV-2 Infection, Showed a High-Titer Neutralizing Effect

Neutralizing antibodies plays a primary role in protective immunity by preventing severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) from entering the cells. Therefore, characterization of antiviral immunity is important for protection against SARS-CoV-2. In this study, the neutralizing effect of the anti-SARS-CoV-2 S1 protein IgG, which was detected using the chemiluminescence microparticle immunoassay (CMIA)-based SARS-CoV-2 IgG II Quant (Abbott, Waukegan, IL, USA) test in SARS-CoV-2 infected and/or vaccinated individuals, was investigated with a surrogate virus neutralization test (sVNT). In total, 120 Seropositive individuals were included in this study. They were divided into two groups: Vaccinated (n = 60) and Vaccinated + Previously Infected (n = 60). A commercial sVNT, the ACE2–RBD Neutralization Test (Dia.Pro, Milan, Italy), was used to assess the neutralizing effect. The assay is performed in two steps: screening and titration. The screening showed positive results in all seropositive samples. Low titration in 1.7%, medium titration in 5%, and high titration in 93.3% of the Vaccinated group, and medium titration in 1.7% and high titration in 98.3% of the other group, as obtained from the ACE2-RBD titration test. A strong positive and significant correlation was found between the SARS-CoV-2 IgG II Quant test and the ACE2-RBD titration test at the 1/32 titration level for both groups (p < 0.001 for both). This study shows that the SARS-CoV-2 IgG detected using the CMIA method after SARS-CoV-2 infection and/or vaccination has a high neutralizing titration by using the sVNT. In line with these data, knowledge that seropositivity determined by CMIA also indicates a strong neutralizing effect contributes to countrywide planning for protecting the population.

Serum Vitamin D Level in Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) and it’s Association with IBD Activity Abstract

Vitamin D influences innate immunity, which is believed to be the imbalance of it involved in the pathogenesis of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). Evidence exists on the association between vitamin D deficiency and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). To assess the serum vitamin D concentration in patients with inflammatory bowel disease and to study the relationship of vitamin D level with disease activity in the patients with inflammatory bowel disease. This case-control study was carried out in the department of Gastroenterology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) on 40 IBD cases, diagnosed on clinical background and 40 apparently healthy control group of similar age and sex. Blood samples were collected and serum vitamin D level was measured with Chemiluminescent Microparticle Immunoassay (CMIA) method in Biochemistry laboratory of BSMMU. The result were analyzed by SPSS version 22. Vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency were defined as serum concentration of ≤20 ng/ml and 21–29 ng/ml respectively. Disease activity were evaluated using the Harvey Bradshaw Index for Crohn’s Disease, Truelove and Witt’s Index for Ulcerative colitis. The vitamin D levels were correlated with disease activity in IBD patients comparing with control group. Mean (±SD) serum vitamin D levels were 16.27 ± 5.16 ng/ml in IBD group and 24.25 ± 6.69 in controls (p <0.001). Almost all (97 %) of IBD patients had low serum vitamin D in comparison to controls; more than three-fourth (77.5%) of the patients of IBD exhibited deficiency (˂20 ng/ml), one-fifth (20%) had insufficiency (21-29 ng/ml) of serum vitamin D, whereas in the controls 30% had deficiency, 42.5% had insufficiency, and 27.5% had sufficient serum vitamin D. There was highly significant inverse correlation between vitamin D level and disease activity in IBD patients. The study showed that IBD patients had significantly lower serum vitamin D levels in comparison to controls. Serum vitamin D concentration is inversely correlated with disease activity in IBD patients. The study suggests that inadequate vitamin D level, along with other factors, probably contributes to the development of active disease in patients with IBD. Bangladesh Med J. 2023 May; 52(2): 20-28

Evaluation of rapid diagnostic test kits for detection of Treponema pallidum antibody.

Rapid syphilis testing plays a crucial role in global health strategies, addressing the urgent need for prompt and accurate diagnostics, especially in settings with limited resources. Despite their practical utility, these tests often lack thorough validation, leading to concerns about their efficacy and reliability. This study aims to evaluate two prototypes of the Onsite Syphilis Ab Combo Rapid Test (Fd and Ff) and compare their performance with the established chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (CMIA) method. Employing a reverse algorithm approach, the study analyzed 450 serum samples, including those from syphilis patients, healthy individuals, and cases with potential cross-reactions. Results of the rapid test kit were then correlated with CMIA findings, RPR, and TPPA titers. The results showed that prototype Fd exhibited a sensitivity of 100.0%, specificity of 98.8%, positive predictive value (PPV) of 8.4%, negative predictive value (NPV) of 100.00% and accuracy of 98.8%. Similarly, prototype Ff exhibited sensitivity of 100.0%, but with a slightly higher specificity of 99.6%, PPV of 21.5%, NPV of 100.0% and accuracy of 99.6%. Moreover, both prototypes Fd and Ff of the Onsite Syphilis Ab Combo Rapid Test demonstrated significant efficacy diagnostic tool, offering clear and straightforward interpretation for clinicians in varied CMIA, RPR and TPPA titer scenarios. The Onsite Syphilis Ab Combo Rapid Test prototypes, Fd and Ff, demonstrated high sensitivity and specificity, comparable to CMIA methods. The effectiveness highlights their suitability for syphilis screening, particularly in non-laboratory settings or situations requiring immediate results. The validation of these prototypes supports their integration into current syphilis diagnostic algorithms, potentially contributing to improved public health outcomes.

Comparison of Serum Vitamin D Level between Outdoor and Indoor Working Professionals and Its Correlation with Serum Parathyroid Hormone Level

Background: Parathyroid hormone (PTH) is functionally linked to vitamin D for calcium homeostasis in our body. Objective: To compare serum vitamin D level between outdoor and indoor working professionals of Dhaka city, Bangladesh, and observe its correlation with serum PTH level. Methods: This cross-sectional, analytical study was conducted in the Department of Biochemistry, Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka, Bangladesh, from July 2018 to June 2019. A total of 101 indoor and outdoor professional workers of both sexes working in different sectors living in Dhaka city participated in this study. They were divided into two groups –outdoor workers (n=35) and indoor workers (n=66) Estimations of both serum vitamin D3 and PTH were done using chemiluminescence microparticle immunoassay method. Statistical analysis was done by students unpaired t tests and Pearson correlation coefficient test. Results: Among outdoor workers, mostly hailed from Traffic Police Services (83%) and the rest (17%). were street hawkers. Indoor workers were recruited from the hospital – nurses (32%), doctors (27%), administrative employees (21%), hospital ward assistants (12%) and medical technicians (8%). Sufficient and insufficient levels of serum D3 were observed more in outdoor professional workers than indoor (P<0.05) whereas deficient levels of serum D3 was found more in indoor workers than outdoor workers (P<0.001). Mean serum vitamin D3 level was found significantly (P<0.001).higher in outdoor workers than that of indoor workers (19.35±5.67ng/ml vs. 14.17±4.18ng/ml) but mean serum PTH level was not significantly different (P>0.05)r in outdoor workers than that of indoor workers (42.35±18.27 vs. 37.78±17.54); Moreover, there was no significant correlation between serum vitamin D and parathyroid hormone levels in both outdoor (r= +0.290; p >0.05) and indoor (r= –0.206; p>0.05) groups .Conclusion: Our data concluded that indoor working professionals were more prone to develop vitamin D deficiency although outdoor working professionals may be affected with vitamin D insufficiency. In addition, there may be no relationship between serum vitamin D and parathyroid hormone levels even in D deficient indoor workers. J Bangladesh Soc Physiol 2022;17(2): 78-84

Screening of Syphilis Using the Reverse Algorithm and its Trends Among Healthy/Asymptomatic Blood Donors: A Regional Transfusion Centre Study from Northern Pakistan

Objective: To determine the syphilis trends by using the reverse algorithm in healthy/asymptomatic blood donors from Northern Pakistan. Study Design: Perspective longitudinal study. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Microbiology, Armed Forces Institute of Transfusion (AFIT), Rawalpindi Pakistan, from Jan to Sep 2022. Methodology: After taking a complete history from potential donors, an appointed blood bank doctor performed a general physical examination. Potential donors’ blood samples were tested for syphilis by the Chemiluminescent Microparticle Immunoassay (CMIA) method followed by reflexively testing of CMIA reactive blood samples with Rapid Plasma Reagin (RPR), and results were interpreted as positive or negative. Results: A total of 56122 donors donated blood over nine months, including 55742(99.3%) males and 380(0.7%) females. Blood donors ranging from 18-65 years with a mean age of 28.82±7.1 were included in the study. Out of 56122 blood donor samples submitted, 487(0.87%) turned out to be syphilis positive by CMIA method, comprising 485(99.59%) males and 02(0.41%) females. Of 487 CMIA-positive serum samples, 216(44.3%) were RPR-positive, all male donors. Conclusion: A higher latent syphilis trend was observed in replacement non-voluntary young male donors between 18 and 40 years of age. The majority of the syphilis positives donors were male, while females made up a negligible percentage.

Assessment of omeprazole and famotidine effects on the pharmacokinetics of tacrolimus in patients following kidney transplant-randomized controlled trial.

Tacrolimus is metabolized in the liver with the participation of the CYP3A4 and CYP3A5 enzymes. Proton pump inhibitors are used in kidney transplant patients to prevent duodenal and gastric ulcer disease due to glucocorticoids. Omeprazole, unlike famotidine, is a substrate and inhibitor of the enzymes CYP2C19, CYP3A4, CYP3A5. The aim of this study was to compare the impact of omeprazole and famotidine on the pharmacokinetics of tacrolimus. A randomized, non-blinded study involving 22 stabilized adult kidney transplant patients was conducted. Patients received the standard triple immunosuppression regimen and omeprazole 20mg (n = 10) or famotidine 20mg (n = 12). The study material consisted of blood samples in which tacrolimus concentrations were determined using the Chemiluminescent Microparticle Immuno Assay method. A single administration of omeprazole increased tacrolimus concentrations at 2h (day 2) = 11.90 ± 1.59ng/mL vs. 2h (day 1 - no omeprazole administration) = 9.40 ± 0.79ng/mL (p = 0.0443). AUC0-6 amounted to 63.07 ± 19.46ng × h/mL (day 2) vs. 54.23 ± 10.48ng × h/mL (day 1), (p = 0.0295). AUC2-6 amounted to 44.32 ± 11.51ng × h/mL (day 2) vs. 38.68 ± 7.70ng × h/mL (day 1), (p = 0.0130). Conversely, no significant changes in values of pharmacokinetic parameters were observed for famotidine. Omeprazole significantly increases blood exposure of tacrolimus. The administration of famotidine instead of omeprazole seems safer for patients following kidney transplantation. Clinical Trial Registration: clinicaltrials.gov, identifier NCT05061303.

Verification of the analytical performance of the serum Folate assay on the Abbott Alinity ci®

In the evolving landscape of clinical diagnostics, the significance of folate takes center stage as precision and innovation shape advancements in analytical methodologies. Folate, a pivotal element in cellular metabolism, governs physiological processes and serves as an indicator for various medical conditions. This study employs the Chemiluminescent Microparticle Immunoassay (CMIA), known for its accuracy, to assess the reproducibility and repeatability of serum folate levels. Folate's role in cellular metabolism influences diverse physiological functions, making its precise quantification crucial for identifying and monitoring conditions such as folate deficiency. The CMIA method emerges as a robust approach, leveraging immunological specificity for high precision and reliability. Utilizing the Abbott Alinity ci® Analyzer, a technologically advanced clinical chemistry instrument, this study incorporates a systematic analytical method verification procedure. This involves quantification through a standardized protocol and a comparative analysis against criteria set by esteemed societies (RICOS and FSCB), ensuring comprehensive insights into analysis techniques. The reproducibility test, evaluating the impact of various factors on assay results, reveals low Coefficient of Variation (CV) values (CV1: 10.25%, CV2: 8.58%, CV3: 9.13%) across different levels. The results align with quality control limits, emphasizing the method's reliability. Repeatability assessment demonstrates exceptionally low CV values (CV1: 4.84%, CV2: 3.41%, CV3: 1.89%), highlighting the method's stability and precision under controlled conditions.

Hydroxyapatite-Gold Modified Screen-Printed Carbon Electrode for Selective SARS-CoV-2 Antibody Immunosensor.

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), or coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), is still spreading worldwide; therefore, the need for rapid and accurate detection methods remains relevant to maintain the spread of this infectious disease. Electrochemical immunosensors are an alternative method for the rapid detection of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Herein, we report the development of a screen-printed carbon electrode immunosensor using a hydroxyapatite-gold nanocomposite (SPCE/HA-Au) directly spray-coated with the immobilization receptor binding domain (RBD) Spike to increase the conductivity and surface electrode area. The HA-Au composite synthesis was optimized using the Box-Behnken method, and the resulting composite was characterized by UV-vis spectrophotometry, TEM-EDX, and XRD analysis. The specific interaction of RBD Spike with immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies was evaluated by differential pulse voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy methods in a [Fe(CN)6]4-/3- solution redox system. The IgG was detected with a detection limit of 0.0561 pg mL-1, and the immunosensor had selectivity and stability of 103-122% and was stable until week 7 with the influence of storage conditions. Also, the immunosensor was tested using real samples from human serum, where the results were confirmed using the chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (CMIA) method and showed satisfactory results. Therefore, the developed electrochemical immunosensor can rapidly and accurately detect SARS-CoV-2 antibodies.

Antibody Response to Sars-CoV-2 in Adults After 18 Months of Second Dose Vaccination of Astra Zeneca

Vaccination is one of the methods of preventing SARS-Cov-2 infection. Although the efficacy of several vaccines has been observed, it is unknown how long the antibodies remain in the body. The purpose of this study was to examine the antibody titers in adults, 18 months after receiving two doses of the Astra Zeneca vaccine. This is a cross-sectional study with adult subjects who received two doses of the Astra Zeneca vaccine in the Bogor area, conducted in 2023. To evaluate antibody titers (IgG) in serum specimens, the Chemiluminescent Microparticle Immunoassay (CMIA) method was utilized. The antibody titer ≥ 50.0 AU/mL was considered positive. The characteristics 122 subjects were mostly: female (63,1%), 36-45 years old, senior high school graduate (45.9%), unemployed (62,3%), had hypertension history (44.7%), and had no COVID-19 infection during the last six months. The results demonstrate that all the subjects had a positive SARS Cov-2 antibody titer, with a range titer of 87 - 80260 AU/mL and a geometric mean titer of 3246.4 AU/mL. In conclusion, this study found that the two doses of the Astra Zeneca vaccine made a significant contribution to the acquisition of anti-SARS-CoV-2S antibodies in adults.

Cytological study of different thyroid lesions and its correlation with thyroid function test

The research relevance of the combined use of fine needle aspiration cytology, sonography, and thyroid function tests is determined by accurate diagnostics of thyroid enlargement in both adults and children. The study aimed to analyse thyroid lesions through cytological analysis and their correlation with thyroid function test results. This cross-sectional study enrolled 100 patients with suspected thyroid disorders and nodules. Comprehensive assessments included clinic demographics, fine needle aspiration cytology procedures, and thyroid hormone profiles. Based on the Bethesda system, cytological diagnoses were correlated with thyroid function test results using the chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay method. Non-tumour thyroid lesions were found to be the most common (95%), with colloidal goitre being the most common. Neoplastic cases mainly included papillary and follicular carcinoma. Most thyroid lesions occurred among the 21-30 age group, non-neoplastic cases were more frequent among the 10-20 age group, and neoplastic cases were more common in those aged 21-40. All patients had neck swelling. Most cases were euthyroid (76%), predominantly classified as Category 2. A strong correlation between cytological diagnoses and thyroid hormone levels (p=0.04) was observed. Fine needle aspiration cytology demonstrated good sensitivity (80%) and high specificity (98.46%), with an 80% positive predictive value and 98.46% negative predictive value, resulting in a diagnostic accuracy of 97.14%. The study highlights the valuable role of fine needle aspiration cytology, when coupled with thyroid function tests, in effectively guiding the management of patients with thyroid lesions, owing to its impressive accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity

Correlation between phenotype and cortisol with anxiety status related to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Link of Video Abstract: https://youtu.be/VpTspeX7fe0 Background: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age. Symptoms include irregular menstrual cycles, hirsutism, obesity, acne vulgaris, and infertility. PCOS is a stigmatized condition that affects women's identity and mental health, especially anxiety. In addition, increased cortisol is associated with increased anxiety. This study aims to determine the effect of phenotype and cortisol on anxiety status in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients. Methods: 40 patients diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) aged 18-40 years in Makassar. The Indonesian version of the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A) assesses anxiety. A blood sample is taken to check for cortisol (drip blood test). Cortisol levels were measured using the CMIA (Chemiluminescent microparticle Immunoassay) method. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0 for Windows. Results: The prevalence of phenotypes A, B, C, and D were 27.5%, 0%, 45%, and 45%, respectively. Phenotype C had a higher body mass index than the other phenotypes but was not significantly different. (p > 0.05). About 26.1% of patients with phenotype A were found to suffer from mild anxiety and 29.5% experienced moderate anxiety. Compared to phenotype C, 52.2% experienced mild anxiety and 35.5% experienced moderate anxiety; however, these results were not statistically significant. Higher cortisol levels were found in phenotype A compared to other phenotypes (phenotype C; 7.01±3.12 and phenotype D; 6.37±3.02) but not significantly different (p>0.05). Conclusion: The PCOS phenotype has no relationship with the anxiety status of PCOS patients and there is no relationship between the phenotype and serum cortisol levels in PCOS patients.

Vitamin D intake and determinants of vitamin D status during pregnancy in The Norwegian Mother, Father and Child Cohort Study.

Norwegian data on vitamin D status among pregnant women indicate a moderate to high prevalence of insufficient vitamin D status (25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) concentrations ≤50 nmol/L). There is a lack of population-based research on vitamin D intake and determinants of 25OHD in pregnant women from northern latitudes. The aims of this study were (1) to evaluate total vitamin D intake from both diet and supplements, (2) to investigate determinants of vitamin D status, and (3) to investigate the predicted response in vitamin D status by total vitamin D intake, in pregnant Norwegian women. In total, 2,960 pregnant women from The Norwegian Environmental Biobank, a sub-study within The Norwegian Mother, Father and Child Cohort Study (MoBa), were included. Total vitamin D intake was estimated from a food frequency questionnaire in gestational week 22. Concentrations of plasma 25OHD was analyzed by automated chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay method in gestational week 18. Candidate determinant variables of 25OHD were chosen using stepwise backward selection and investigated using multivariable linear regression. Predicted 25OHD by total vitamin D intake, overall and stratified by season and pre-pregnancy BMI, was explored using restricted cubic splines in an adjusted linear regression. Overall, about 61% of the women had a total vitamin D intake below the recommended intake. The main contributors to total vitamin D intake were vitamin D supplements, fish, and fortified margarine. Higher 25OHD concentrations were associated with (in descending order of the beta estimates) summer season, use of solarium, higher vitamin D intake from supplements, origin from high income country, lower pre-pregnancy BMI, higher age, higher vitamin D intake from foods, no smoking during pregnancy, higher education and energy intake. During October-May, a vitamin D intake according to the recommended intake was predicted to reach sufficient 25OHD concentrations >50 nmoL/L. The findings from this study highlight the importance of the vitamin D intake, as one of few modifiable determinants, to reach sufficient 25OHD concentrations during months when dermal synthesis of vitamin D is absent.

#6171 SEROPREVALENCE OF COVID-19 INFECTION BASED ON IGG ANTIBODY AGAINST NUCLEOCAPSID PROTEIN (NP) AND SPIKE PROTEIN (S) IN HEMODIALYSIS PATIENTS

Abstract Background and Aims Maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) patients have been identified as a high-risk group for COVID-19 infection. Serological testing can be used to monitor disease prevalence & evaluate screening measures & protocols aiming at limiting transmission within dialysis units. This study was conducted to observe the sero prevalence of COVID-19 infection among maintenance hemodialysis patients. Method The study was conducted during the 3rd wave of covid-19 infection. Total 194 in-center MHD patients were included from three dialysis centers. Relevant history regarding covid-19 symptom, testing, managements and vaccination were collected. During our study a serum sample was collected to test IgG antibody against nucleocapsid protein (NP) (cut-off positive when >1.5) and spike protein (S) (cut-off positive when >50 AIU/L) of COVID-19 infection and tested by Chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (CMIA) method developed by Abbott (FDA-EUA approved). Results Mean age of the MHD subjects was 48±12 years where male was 60%. Duration of MHD was 31±22 (6-120) months. Renal pathology was DN in 31%, possible GN 31%,HTN 19% and rest from others .From records past covid infection was clinically diagnosed in 39% of which 10% based on RT-PCR and another 29% fell into suspected category (i.e. symptom with/or suggestive serology). Presentation pattern was mild in 75%, moderate 15% (requiring oxygen), severe in 5% (requiring hospitalization) and asymptomatic rest 5%. Vaccine against covid-19 was availed by 38%. In vaccinated vs. non-vaccinated patients the IgG for NP was positive in 63% vs. 561%(P = 0.65) and IgG for S in 99% vs. 98%(P = 0.56). These indicate naturally acquired immunity in most before any vaccination. The IgG titer against spike (S) protein between vaccinated and non-vaccinated groups was 7743±8920 and 5386± 6839 AIU/L (p = 0.06). The correlation study showed that IgG titer against S has no correlation with dialysis duration, age, BMI, Hb%, serum albumin or Kt/V. Similarly IgG titer against NP shows mostly no significant correlation with laboratory parameters. Conclusion These data demonstrate that seroprevalence in hemodialysis population based on antibody against nucleocapsid protein shows only half infected by SARS-CoV-2 where as antibody against spike protein indicates larger number of patients are naturally infected even before vaccinated. Therefore for seroprevalence studies both antibody testing should be used to identify greater population infected until more sensitive tools are established.

Evaluation of Antibody Kinetics Following COVID-19 Vaccination in Greek SARS-CoV-2 Infected and Naïve Healthcare Workers.

We investigated the antibody kinetics after vaccination against COVID-19 in healthcare workers of a Greek tertiary hospital. Eight hundred and three subjects were included, of whom 758 (94.4%) received the BNT162b2 vaccine (Pfizer-BioNTech), eight (1%) mRNA-1273 (Moderna), 14 (1.7%) ChAdOx1 (Oxford-AstraZeneca) and 23 (2.9%) Ad26.COV2.S (Janssen). Before the second dose, at 2, 6 and 9 months after the second dose and at 2 and 6 months after the third dose, anti-spike IgG were quantified by the chemiluminescence microparticle immunoassay method. One hundred subjects were infected before vaccination (group A), 335 were infected after receiving at least one vaccine dose (group B), while 368 had never been infected (group C). Group A presented a greater number of hospitalizations and reinfections compared to group B (p < 0.05). By multivariate analysis, younger age was associated with an increased risk of reinfection (odds ratio: 0.956, p = 0.004). All subjects showed the highest antibody titers at 2 months after the second and third dose. Group A showed higher antibody titers pre-second dose, which remained elevated 6 months post-second dose compared to groups B and C (p < 0.05). Pre-vaccine infection leads to rapid development of high antibody titer and a slower decline. Vaccination is associated with fewer hospitalizations and fewer reinfections.

Presepsin Levels and Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio are Positively Correlated with Procalcitonin Levels in Early Onset Neonatal Sepsis

BACKGROUND: Early-onset neonatal sepsis (EONS) is an acute infection and sepsis occurring within the first 24 hours of new-born life. An increase in procalcitonin levels, presepsin levels, and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in EONS subjects have been reported. However, whether presepsin levels and NLR affect the procalcitonin levels in EONS patients who have received antibiotic therapy has not been certainly known. This study was conducted to determine the correlation between presepsin levels and NLR with procalcitonin levels in EONS subjects.METHODS: A cross-sectional study involving 52 EONS subjects were conducted, and blood samples from subjects were collected. Presepsin levels were examined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method, NLR was calculated from the absolute number of neutrophils divided by the absolute number of lymphocytes, and procalcitonin levels were examined by chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (CMIA) method. RESULTS: Median of procalcitonin levels and presepsin levels were 0.435 (0.12-9.11) ng/mL and 108.33 (71.43-1287.76) ng/L, respectively. While NLR value was 1.68 (0.2-7.52). There was significant difference between procalcitonin and presepsin levels (p=0.000), and so does between procalcitonin levels and NLR (p=0.001). Based on the multivariate analysis, presepsin levels also affected the procalcitonin levels (p=0.000; 95% CI: 0.001-0.004).CONCLUSION: The results of the study showed that there was significant correlation between presepsin levels and NLR with procalcitonin levels in EONS patients, suggesting that presepsin levels, NLR, and procalcitonin levels are potential candidates for EONS biomarkers.KEYWORDS: EONS, NLR, presepsin, procalcitonin

Monitoring of antibody levels in healthcare workers after inactivated coronavirus disease 19 vaccination.

Because of the coronavirus disease 19 pandemic, studies on vaccination are being conducted in our country as well as across the world. In this study, the antibody levels in healthcare workers vaccinated with two doses of inactivated vaccine and the factors affecting these levels were investigated. Randomly selected volunteers from healthcare workers, who had been vaccinated with two doses of inactivated vaccine in January to February 2021, were included in the study. Blood samples were drawn twice, 1 month and 6 months after the second dose vaccine (CoronaVac:Sinovac Life Science Co, Ltd, Beijing, China). The antibody levels were determined by the chemiluminescence microparticle immunoassay method using kits for quantitative detection of immunoglobulin class G antibodies to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. The mean antibody levels of 129 volunteers were 1232.5 (min: 103 to max: 7151) AU/mL in the first month and 403.5 (min: 23 to max: 4963) AU/mL in the sixth month. According to the survey results, 91 (71%) volunteers had not been diagnosed with coronavirus disease 19 before vaccination. The antibody levels 1 month and 6 months after the second dose of vaccination were significantly higher in those who had been diagnosed with coronavirus disease 19 before vaccination than in those who had not. It was found that age, gender, fast food, or healthy nutrition had no effect on antibody levels. Vaccines are very important both to protect against coronavirus disease 19 and to experience only a mild form of the disease. Immunoglobulin class G levels formed after vaccination may be affected by many factors and may decrease over time.

Levels of PIVKA-II and alpha-fetoprotein in unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma compared to healthy controls and predictive values of both markers with radiological responses after loco-regional interventions.

The significance of the current study was to determine normative levels of PIVKA-II and AFP in patients with unresectable HCC and healthy participants. The second goal was to assess the roles of PIVKA-II and AFP in predicting radiological response after loco-regional therapy. This prospective cohort study enrolled consecutive samples of HCC patients and healthy controls. Venous blood samples were obtained at baseline and after interventions to determine serum levels of PIVKA-II and AFP using the chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay method. Radiologic responses were determined based on the WHO criteria. Fifty-four HCC patients (mean age 58.9 years, 49 males) and 40 healthy controls (mean age 33.5 years, 26 males) were recruited. The median serum levels of PIVKA-II and AFP in HCC vs. healthy controls were 988.4 vs. 24.2 mAU/ml and 13.6 vs. 1.7 ng/ml, respectively (both p<0.001). With ROC curve analysis, the area under the curve (AUC) for PIVKA-II was 0.95 95% CI [0.90-0.99], and for AFP it was 0.98, 95% CI [0.95-1.0]). The cut-off value for PIVKA-II was 41.4 mAU/ml, and AFP was 4.8 ng/ml. PIVKA-II levels correlated significantly with radiological responses (r=0.64, p=0.02) but not AFP (r=0.09, p=0.2). PIVKA-II and AFP levels are distinctive between unresectable HCC and healthy controls. However, PIVKA-II, not AFP, can predict the radiological response after loco-regional therapy.

Cerrahpaşa Medical Faculty Hospital HIV-1/-2 Serological Test Data: 2019-2022 Retrospective Evaluation

Objective: The aim of this study was to retrospectively discuss the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) scanning and verification test results and demographics of patients who were admitted to the Istanbul University Cerrahpaşa Medical Faculty’s Medical Microbiology Laboratory Center Serology/ELISA division with suspected HIV infection or pre-operative serologic screening. In addition, the study aimed to compare HIV seroprevalence with data from the center’s previous period. Materials and Methods: HIV-1/-2 antibody +P24 antigen (HIV-1/-2 Ab/Ag) was studied routinely using the chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (CMIA) method with the same method also being used as the second repeat test. The sera verifications of patients who showed repeated reactivity after the HIV Ab/Ag test were studied using the line immunoassay (LIA) method. Results: The study retrospectively studied 156,542 cases between 2019-2022, of which 237 (0.17%) showed repeated anti-HIV-1/-2 reactivity. From the repeated reactivity serum samples, LIA testing was performed to confirm the remaining 181 serum samples after excluding the previously confirmed samples, with 175 (96.6%) coming back positive. All these samples showed sgp120 and gp41 band positivity, thus confirming HIV1 positivity. Conclusion: These retrospective data from one center regarding HIV seroprevalence for the 2019-2022 period are in line with other national studies. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, HIV prevalence during this period may have been higher than detected. HIV prevalence in Istanbul, being a cosmopolitan city that receives immigrants, should be monitored in the future.

Monitoring SARS CoV-2 antibodies positivity in healthcare workers after inactivated CoronaVac® vaccine.

In this study, we aimed to monitor anti-spike and anti-nucleocapsid antibodies positivity in healthcare workers (HCWs) vaccinated with two doses of inactivated CoronaVac® (Sinovac, China) vaccine. Overall, 242 volunteer HCWs were included. Of the participants, 193 were HCWs without history of prior documented COVID-19 (Group 1), while 49 had history of prior documented COVID-19 before vaccination (Group 2). The participants were followed up for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies positivity at four different blood sampling time points (immediately before the second vaccine dose and at the 1st, 3rd months and 141-150 days after the second dose). We investigated the serum IgG class antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 RBD region and IgG class antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid antigen by chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (CMIA) method using commercial kits. We found positive serum anti-RBD IgG antibody in 76.4% of the participants (71% in Group 1; 98% in Group 2) 28 days after the first dose. When the antibody levels of the groups were compared at the four blood sampling time points, Group 2 anti-RBD IgG levels were found to be significantly higher than those in Group 1 at all follow-up time points. Although anti-RBD IgG positivity persisted in 95.6% of all participants in the last blood sampling time point, a significant decrease was observed in antibody levels compared to the previous blood sampling time point. Anti-nucleocapsid IgG antibody was positive in 12 (6.2%) of participants in Group 1 and 32 (65.3%) in Group 2 at day 28 after the first dose. At the fourth blood sampling time point, anti-nucleocapsid antibodies were found to be positive in a total of 20 (9.7%) subjects, 10 (6.1%) in Group 1 and 10 (23.8%) in Group 2. In this study, it was determined that serum antibody levels decreased in both groups after the third month after the second dose in HCWs vaccinated with CoronaVac® vaccine.

Kastamonu İlinde Hepatit A Seroprevalansının Değerlendirilmesi i

Aim: Hepatitis A disease is a contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). This study aimed to decide the hepatitis A seroprevalence in all age groups in Kastamonu province, Turkey.&#x0D; Material and Method: The current study analyzed the anti-HAV antibodies test results of the patients who applied to Kastamonu Training and Research Hospital for various reasons between 2018-2022. The most up-to-date test results of patients sent more than one serum sample were evaluated. The patients were separated into eight age groups: 0-10,11-20, 21-30, 31-40, 41-50, 51-60, 61-70, and ≥71. The anti-HAV IgM and anti-HAV IgG values were determined using the chemiluminescence microparticle immunoassay method in the Abbott Architect i2000SR. The results were evaluated based on the manufacturer’s instructions. &#x0D; Results: There was positivity in 27 (1.3%) of 2083 patients in whom anti-HAV IgM was studied and in 837 (58.2%) of 1439 patients in whom anti-HAV IgG was studied. The anti-HAV IgG positivity in females and males was 55.9% and 61.0%, respectively; anti-HAV IgM positivity was 1.7% and 0.8%. The anti-HAV IgG positivity rate increased with increasing age (p