Disease Conditions Research Articles

Associations between Life’s Essential 8 and abdominal aortic calcification among US Adults: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundCardiovascular health (CVH) and abdominal aortic calcification (AAC) are closely linked to cardiovascular disease (CVD) and related mortality. However, the relationship between CVH metrics via Life’s Essential 8 (LE8) and AAC remains unexplored.MethodsThe study analyzed data from the 2013–2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) cohort, which included adults aged 40 or above. The research used the LE8 algorithm to evaluate CVH. Semi-quantitative AAC-24 scoring techniques were employed to assess AAC, categorized into no calcification, mild to moderate calcification, and severe calcification.ResultsThe primary analysis involved 2,478 participants. Following adjustments for multiple factors, the LE8 score exhibited a significant association with ACC risk (Mild-moderate ACC: 0.87, 95% CI: 0.81,0.93; Severe ACC: 0.77, 95% CI: 0.69,0.87, all P < 0.001), indicating an almost linear dose–response relationship. Compared to the low CVH group, the moderate CVH group showed lower odds ratios (OR) for mild-moderate and severe calcification (OR = 0.78, 95% CI: 0.61–0.99, P = 0.041; OR = 0.68, 95% CI: 0.46–0.99, P = 0.047, respectively). Moreover, the high CVH group demonstrated even lower ORs for mild-moderate and severe calcification (OR = 0.46, 95% CI: 0.31, 0.69, P < 0.001; OR = 0.29, 95% CI: 0.14, 0.59, P = 0.001, respectively). Interactions were found between chronic kidney disease (CKD) condition, history of CVD, marital status and CVH metrics to ACC. Participants without CKD exhibited a more pronounced negative association between the CVH metric and both mild-moderate and severe ACC. Those lacking a history of CVD, and never married/widowed/divorced/separated showed a stronger negative association between the CVH metric and severe ACC.ConclusionsThe novel CVH metrics demonstrated an inverse correlation with the risk of AAC. These findings suggest that embracing improved CVH levels may assist in alleviating the burden of ACC.

Evaluation of biological markers for the risk assessment of carbon black in epidemiological studies.

Engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) have been suggested as being capable of promoting inflammation, a key component in the pathways associated with carcinogenesis, cardiovascular disease, and other conditions. As a result, the risk assessment of biological markers as early-stage indicators has the potential to improve translation from experimental toxicologic findings to identifying evidence in human studies. The study aims to review the possible early biological changes in workers exposed to carbon black (CB), followed by an evidentiary quality evaluation to determine the predictive value of the biological markers. We conducted a literature search to identify epidemiological studies that assessed biological markers that were involved in the inflammatory process at early stages among workers with exposure to CB. We reviewed the studies with specific reference to the study design, statistical analyses, findings, and limitations. We identified five Chinese studies that investigated the potential impact of exposure to CB on inflammatory markers, bronchial wall thickening, genomic instability, and lung function impairment in CB production workers. Of the five Chinese studies, four were cross-sectional; another study reported results at two-time points over six years of follow-up. The authors of all five studies concluded positive relationships between exposure and the inflammatory cytokine profiles. The weak to very weak correlations between biomarkers and early-stage endpoints were reported. Most inflammatory markers failed to satisfy the proposed evidentiary quality criteria. The significance of the results of the reviewed studies is limited by the cross-sectional study design, inconsistency in results, uncertain clinical relevance, and high occupational exposures. Based on this review, the risk assessment relying on inflammatory markers does not seem appropriate at this time. Nevertheless, the novel research warrants further exploration in assessing exposure to ENMs and corresponding potential health risks in occupational settings.

Comparative genomics analysis of pheophorbide a oxygenase (PAO) genes in eight pyrus genomes and their regulatory role in multiple stress responses in Chinese pear (Pyrus bretschneideri).

Pyrus (pear) is among the most nutritious fruits and contains fibers that have great health benefits to humans. It is mostly cultivated in temperate regions globally and is highly subjected to biotic and abiotic stresses which affect its yield. Pheophorbide a oxygenase (PAO) is an essential component of the chlorophyll degradation system and contributes to the senescence of leaves. It is responsible for opening the pheophorbide a porphyrin macrocycle and forming the main fluorescent chlorophyll catabolite However, this gene family and its members have not been explored in Pyrus genomes. Here we report a pangenome-wide investigation has been conducted on eight Pyrus genomes: Cuiguan, Shanxi Duli, Zhongai 1, Nijisseiki, Yunhong No.1, d'Anjou, Bartlett v2.0, and Dangshansuli v.1.1. The phylogenetic history, their gene structure, conservation patterns of motifs, their distribution on chromosomes, and gene duplication are studied in detail which shows the intraspecific structural conservation as well as evolutionary patterns of Pyrus PAOs. Cis-elements, protein-protein interactions (PPI), and the Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analyses show their potential biological functions. Furthermore, their expression in various tissues, fruit hardening conditions, and drought stress conditions is also studied. Based on phylogenetics, the identified PAOs were divided into four groups. The expansion of this gene family in Pyrus is caused by both tandem and segmental duplication. Moreover, positive and negative selection pressure equally directed the gene's duplication process. The Pyrus PAO genes were enriched in hormones-related, light, development, and stress-related elements. RNA-seq data analysis showed that PAOs have varied levels of expression under diseased and abiotic stress conditions. The 3D structures of PAOs are also predicted to get more insights into functional conservation. Our research can be used further to get a deeper knowledge of the PAO gene family in Pyrus and to guide future research on improving the genetic composition of Pyrus to enhance stress tolerance.

Discovery of Small‐Molecules as Potential GSK‐3β Inhibitors for the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease Using Pharmacophore‐Based Virtual Screening

AbstractGlycogen synthase kinase‐3β (GSK‐3β) plays pivotal role in regulating diverse range of cellular functions. It plays negative role in cellular signaling pathways and believed to involved in the pathologies of various diseases like neurological disorders, type II diabetes, inflammation, cardiac hypertrophy, cancer and bipolar disorders. GSK‐3β is proposed as a promising target for drug discovery in treating these disease conditions. A number of structurally different chemical scaffolds including pyrimidinone derivatives have been identified as potential GSK‐3β inhibitors. In the current study, PHASE module of Schrödinger 3D QSAR was used on about 157 pyrimidinone derivatives for the development of statistically significant PLS model. Consecutively, the best pharmacophore hypothesis with features like three hydrogen bond acceptors (A1‐3), two hydrophobic regions (H1 and H2), and one aromatic ring (R1), was selected to screen ZINC and PUBCHEM databases. Molecules with matching pharmacophoric features and ROF were subjected to structure‐based virtual screening (HTVS→SP→XP) and MMGBSA. Two hits from each library were selected for MD simulation studies that showed good pharmacokinetic properties, binding score (−6.8–−8.8 kcal/mol) and ▵GMMGBSA (−55.80–−58.1 kcal/mol) as compared to the reference molecule, NP‐12. Similarly, MD simulation, and MMPBSA identified three compounds i. e. ZINC67743231, ZINC01582756, and PUBCHEM11553018 displaying stability in the binding pocket and demonstrated better binding affinity of −22.07, −27.33, and −30.61 kcal/mol, respectively, within the active site of GSK‐3β. DFT studies also demonstrated the stability of these three lead compounds with a high energy gap between HOMO and LUMO ranging between 0.14546 and 0.1718 eV.

Systemic immune-inflammation index in dural arteriovenous fistula: a feasible biomarker reflecting its clinical characteristics.

The systemic immune-inflammation index (SII), a marker of systemic inflammation, can be calculated using peripheral blood tests. Although the SII has been reported as a feasible biomarker in various cerebrovascular diseases, no studies have explored in dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF). A retrospective cohort study was performed to test whether the SII reflects the clinical characteristics of DAVF and whether this index could serve as a feasible biomarker. This study included 28 patients who underwent endovascular treatment (39 sessions) for DAVF between 2014 and 2023. The SII was calculated using the following formula: platelet count multiplied by neutrophil count divided by lymphocyte count. We investigated the correlation between the SII and various clinical characteristics of DAVF, including symptom manifestation, and digital subtraction angiography findings. Additionally, we compared pre- and post-endovascular treatment changes in the SII. A significantly higher SII was observed in patients with multiple lesions, clinical symptoms (particularly aggressive symptoms), pseudophelebitic pattern (PPP), and sinus occlusion. Multivariate regression analysis revealed that the presence of symptoms (coefficient 270.9, P = 0.021) and PPP (coefficient 272.4, P = 0.017) were independent factors contributing to SII elevation. Notably, following endovascular treatment, there was a significant decrease in the elevated SII in patients whose symptoms resolved (P = 0.039) and where the DAVF was angiographically cured (P = 0.012). Elevation of the SII in patients with advanced DAVF and its decrease following endovascular treatment suggests that the SII reflects the disease condition and indicates its potential as a promising biomarker.

Improvement in Thrombocytopenia after Direct Acting Anti-Viral (DAA)Therapy in Patients with Hepatitis C Virus-Related Chronic Liver Disease in Pakistani Population-A Single Centered Study

Background: Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infection remains a significant global health challenge, often leading to chronic liver diseases such as cirrhosis and associated complications like thrombocytopenia. Directly acting antivirals (DAAs) have revolutionized HCV treatment due to their high efficacy and favorable safety profiles but the impact on thrombocytopenia, particularly in the Pakistani population, has been less studied. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of DAA therapy on platelet count and other laboratory parameters in chronic HCV patients with thrombocytopenia in Pakistan and to establish correlations between treatment outcomes and baseline laboratory values. Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted at the Sindh Institute of Urology and Transplantation from January 2018 to December 2022. Patients with chronic HCV genotype 3a infection, compensated cirrhosis, and a baseline platelet count of less than 150 × 10^9/L were included. Exclusion criteria encompassed decompensated liver disease, liver cancer, and other specific conditions. The treatment regimens were Sofosbuvir plus Daclatasvir or Velpatasvir plus Ribavirin over three months. Parameters such as complete blood counts, serum creatinine, liver enzymes, and Child-Turcotte-Pugh (CTP) and Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) scores were recorded at baseline and post-treatment. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25, employing paired t-tests and Pearson correlation coefficients. Results: A total of 195 patients were studied, with a mean baseline platelet count of 100.7 × 10^9/L, which significantly increased to 122.2 × 10^9/L post-treatment (p &lt; 0.001). Improvements were also noted in mean serum creatinine (0.96 mg/dL to 0.87 mg/dL; p = 0.009), total bilirubin (1.6 mg/dL to 1.2 mg/dL; p &lt; 0.001), liver enzymes (ALT from 63.9 IU to 45.9 IU; p &lt; 0.001 and AST from 86.8 IU to 59.5 IU; p &lt; 0.001), and MELD scores (11.5 to 9.3; p &lt; 0.001). Hemoglobin levels and total leukocyte counts also showed significant improvements. Conclusion: DAA therapy significantly improves platelet counts and other laboratory parameters in chronic HCV patients with thrombocytopenia, suggesting a positive impact on liver function and patient management. This study highlights the importance of DAAs in the therapeutic regimen for HCV in the Pakistani population, contributing to better clinical outcomes and healthcare practices.

A Classical Ayurveda and Modern Review of Mutrashmariw S.R.Urolithiasis

The sign and symptoms as well as morphology of stone found in Mutrashmari are similar to that of Urolithiasis.In Shushruta Samhita Ashmari included in Ashtamahagada due to its notorious nature and reluctant to cure.Urolithiasis is third most common affliction of the urinary tract,exceeded only by UTI and BPH.The classical symptoms of Ashmariis pain with obstruction of urine.It is one of the common disease conditions worldwide and it is found that Ashmarirecurs in spite of Surgical and Palliative intervention which shows the importance of diet and lifestyle in the manifestation of Mutrashmari. Hence it is very important to know all the aspect of this urinary problem so,that it can be nipped in the bud.

Superior Mesenteric Artery Thrombosis and Intestinal Ischemia in Chronic Kidney Disease

We describe the case of an elderly female with a complex medical history, including hypertension, chronic kidney disease, hypothyroidism, and multiple cardiovascular and pulmonary conditions, who presented to the emergency department with abdominal pain. Due to the patient’s chronic kidney disease, two non-contrast CT scans initially ordered showed unremarkable results. The decision to order a third CT scan with contrast finally demonstrated a thrombus in the superior mesenteric artery with potential bowel ischemia. The patient’s condition deteriorated rapidly during the discovery of mesenteric artery thrombosis and extensive gangrenous bowel during surgery. Due to the irreversibility of the bowel ischemia, the patient was placed on comfort measures and passed away.

Antitumor Effect and Gut Microbiota Modulation by Quercetin, Luteolin, and Xanthohumol in a Rat Model for Colorectal Cancer Prevention.

Colorectal cancer stands as the third most prevalent form of cancer worldwide, with a notable increase in incidence in Western countries, mainly attributable to unhealthy dietary habits and other factors, such as smoking or reduced physical activity. Greater consumption of vegetables and fruits has been associated with a lower incidence of colorectal cancer, which is attributed to their high content of fiber and bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids. In this study, we have tested the flavonoids quercetin, luteolin, and xanthohumol as potential antitumor agents in an animal model of colorectal cancer induced by azoxymethane and dodecyl sodium sulphate. Forty rats were divided into four cohorts: Cohort 1 (control cohort), Cohort 2 (quercetin cohort), Cohort 3 (luteolin cohort), and Cohort 4 (xanthohumol cohort). These flavonoids were administered intraperitoneally to evaluate their antitumor potential as pharmaceutical agents. At the end of the experiment, after euthanasia, different physical parameters and the intestinal microbiota populations were analyzed. Luteolin was effective in significantly reducing the number of tumors compared to the control cohort. Furthermore, the main significant differences at the microbiota level were observed between the control cohort and the cohort treated with luteolin, which experienced a significant reduction in the abundance of genera associated with disease or inflammatory conditions, such as Clostridia UCG-014 or Turicibacter. On the other hand, genera associated with a healthy state, such as Muribaculum, showed a significant increase in the luteolin cohort. These results underline the anti-colorectal cancer potential of luteolin, manifested through a modulation of the intestinal microbiota and a reduction in the number of tumors.

The Effects of Infectious Diseases on the Consequences of Interspecific Competition in Grassland Communities

As infectious diseases have a severe impact on the individual survival and competitive ability of host species in grassland communities, competition between relevant species may have different consequences, potentially influencing the species composition of grassland communities and the functioning of grassland ecosystems. Understanding the impact of infectious diseases on competition is thus crucial for the health management of grassland ecosystems. How do infectious diseases affect the competitive coexistence of grassland plant species? In this study, by drawing on Tilman’s multispecies competition model and incorporating the spread characteristics of grassland plant diseases, we built three spatial competition models of two grass species subject to infectious diseases, and we analyzed the invasion conditions of infectious diseases and how they impact the population dynamics and competitive consequences of the species. Our model revealed the following: (1) Diseases with high transmission rates and low virulence are more likely to invade populations, while the presence of non-host species is detrimental to disease invasion. (2) Disease promotes the coexistence of competing species, breaking down the original competition–compromise trade-off mechanism for species coexistence and greatly expanding the range of parameters within which the two species can coexist. (3) Pathogen infections indirectly weaken the suppression of inferior species by dominant species, which is similar to the cascade effect seen in trophic interactions. Our findings highlight the importance of disease in species coexistence and grassland biodiversity maintenance.

Nr1h4 and Thrb ameliorate ER stress and provide protection in the MPTP mouse model of Parkinson's.

Elevated ER stress has been linked to the pathogenesis of several disease conditions including neurodegeneration. In this study, we have holistically determined the differential expression of all the nuclear receptors (NRs) in the presence of classical ER stress inducers. Activation of Nr1h4 and Thrb by their cognate ligands (GW4064 and T3) ameliorates the tunicamycin (TM)-induced expression of ER stress genes. A combination of both ligands is effective in mitigating cell death induced by TM. Further exploration of their protective effects in the Parkinson's disease (PD) model shows that they reduce MPP+-induced dissipation of mitochondrial membrane potential and ROS generation in an in vitro PD model in neuronal cells. Furthermore, the generation of an experimental murine PD model reveals that simultaneous treatment of GW4064 and T3 protects mice from ER stress, dopaminergic cell death, and functional deficits in the MPTP mouse model of PD. Thus, activation of Nr1h4 and Thrb by their respective ligands plays an indispensable role in ER stress amelioration and mounts protective effects in the MPTP mouse model of PD.

Mathematical modeling of transdermal delivery of topical drug formulations in a dynamic microfluidic diffusion chamber in health and disease.

Mathematical models of epidermal and dermal transport are essential for optimization and development of products for percutaneous delivery both for local and systemic indication and for evaluation of dermal exposure to chemicals for assessing their toxicity. These models often help directly by providing information on the rate of drug penetration through the skin and thus on the dermal or systemic concentration of drugs which is the base of their pharmacological effect. The simulations are also helpful in analyzing experimental data, reducing the number of experiments and translating the in vitro investigations to an in-vivo setting. In this study skin penetration of topically administered caffeine cream was investigated in a skin-on-a-chip microfluidic diffusion chamber at room temperature and at 32°C. Also the transdermal penetration of caffeine in healthy and diseased conditions was compared in mouse skins from intact, psoriatic and allergic animals. In the last experimental setup dexamethasone, indomethacin, piroxicam and diclofenac were examined as a cream formulation for absorption across the dermal barrier. All the measured data were used for making mathematical simulation in a three-compartmental model. The calculated and measured results showed a good match, which findings indicate that our mathematical model might be applied for prediction of drug delivery through the skin under different circumstances and for various drugs in the novel, miniaturized diffusion chamber.

Biophysical models applied to dementia patients reveal links between geographical origin, gender, disease duration, and loss of neural inhibition

BackgroundThe hypothesis of decreased neural inhibition in dementia has been sparsely studied in functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data across patients with different dementia subtypes, and the role of social and demographic heterogeneities on this hypothesis remains to be addressed.MethodsWe inferred regional inhibition by fitting a biophysical whole-brain model (dynamic mean field model with realistic inter-areal connectivity) to fMRI data from 414 participants, including patients with Alzheimer’s disease, behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia, and controls. We then investigated the effect of disease condition, and demographic and clinical variables on the local inhibitory feedback, a variable related to the maintenance of balanced neural excitation/inhibition.ResultsDecreased local inhibitory feedback was inferred from the biophysical modeling results in dementia patients, specific to brain areas presenting neurodegeneration. This loss of local inhibition correlated positively with years with disease, and showed differences regarding the gender and geographical origin of the patients. The model correctly reproduced known disease-related changes in functional connectivity.ConclusionsResults suggest a critical link between abnormal neural and circuit-level excitability levels, the loss of grey matter observed in dementia, and the reorganization of functional connectivity, while highlighting the sensitivity of the underlying biophysical mechanism to demographic and clinical heterogeneities in the patient population.

Pharmaceutico-Analytical Study of Kaidaryadi Ghanavati - A Poly Herbal Formulation

Kaidaryadi Kashayam is an herbal preparation which is commonly used in Udaragata Vikaras like Pravahika, Agnimandhya and Grahani etc. Even though this Yoga is used most frequently used and having only four easily available ingredients very less companies are preparing the Kashaya. The excellent results are seen in the Grahani, Pravahika etc diseases conditions. The palatability is a challenge for taking the Kashya and also transportation is a challenge. In the present study here attempt has been made to prepare Ghanavati of Kaidaryadi Kashaya of Chikitsa Manjari text book by Rasakriya method. The prepared Vati was subjected for physciochemical and phytochemical analysis, HPTLC, microbial load as per the WHO guidelines. Efforts were made to set the analytical standards for the Kaidaryadi Ghanavati which were not reported till date. Loss on drying - 10.084%, Ash value -13.366%, Acid insoluble ash - 1.287%, Water soluble extractive - 79.793%, Alcohol soluble extractive -4.064%, Hardness - 10kg/cm, Friability - 0.004%, Disintegration - 20min, pH - 5.23, in HPTLC of Kaidaryadi Ghanavati maximum four spots at short UV and maximum seven spots long UV. Microorganisms in the formulation were found to be 24CFU/ml.

Role of Sthanik Chikitsa in Stri Roga

Women play crucial roles in various aspects of life, contributing significantly to society, economy, and culture. She keeps herself so busy in fulfilling the duties, she ignores her health. She neglects her health condition, which leads to major health illness. Various diseases can impact women's Reproductive health. Ayurveda is one of the broad spectrum’s human ancient sciences. In Ayurveda, there is a brief description of various types of Yonivyapada. Nowadays most females are suffering from stress, anxiety, emotional behaviour. Also, many females are workers so they can’t maintain proper hygiene, due to unhygienic conditions they are suffering from various Yonirogas. To treat the ailment of women’s reproductive health Sthanik Chikitsa can be the better option Sthanik Chikitsa in Striroga includes Uttar Basti, Yoni Pichu, Yoni Dhavana, Yoni Dhoopan etc. Sthanik Chikitsa means some treatment to be applied locally in or on reproductive organ to combat any diseased condition. Local treatments possess Shamana and Shodhana properties according to their Prayojana. Sthanik Chikitsa (Local therapies) are available which were described in our Classics. In this review, a conceptual study is being elaborated regarding the Sthanika Chikitsa.

Autoantigenic Peptide and Immunomodulator Codelivery System for Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment by Reestablishing Immune Tolerance.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic autoimmune disease characterized by abnormal activation of CD4+ T cells and an imbalance of T helper 17 (Th17) and regulatory T (Treg) cells. Tolerogenic therapy via administration of self-antigens is a promising strategy for RA treatment, but delivery of autoantigens alone may exacerbate disease conditions. Current studies indicated that codelivery of autoantigens with immunomodulators can lead to a more tolerogenic immune response. Here, we constructed an autoantigen type II collagen peptide (CII250-270)- and immunomodulator leflunomide (LEF)-coloaded phosphatidylserine liposome vaccine (CII250-270-LEF-PSL) for RA treatment via induction of tolerant dendritic cells (tolDC) for further activation of Treg cells. The in vivo results showed that CII250-270-LEF-PSL can effectively induce tolDC, regulate the balance of Th1/Th2 and Th17/Treg, and reduce the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IFN-γ, IL-1β, and IL-17A) and IgG antibodies to inhibit synovial inflammation and bone erosion. Furthermore, our study also suggested that LEF regulated Th1 cell differentiation by inhibiting the activation of the JAK1/STAT1 signaling pathway, further alleviating RA. Overall, this work proved that the combination of autoantigenic peptides and immunomodulators was a promising modality for RA treatment by reestablishing antigen-specific immune tolerance, which also inspired additional insights into the development of combination therapies for the tolerability of RA.

Ayurvedic Management of Crohn’s Disease - A Single Case Study

Crohn’s disease is a chronic idiopathic inflammatory bowel disease condition characterized by skip lesions and transmural inflammation that can affect the entire gastrointestinal tract from the mouth to the anus. It is having variable presenting symptoms and may include diarrhoea, abdominal pain, weight loss, nausea, vomiting etc. The diagnosis is typically made with endoscopic and/or radiologic findings. A 16-year-old female patient diagnosed with Crohn’s disease having complaints of frequent loose stools, bleeding per rectum after evacuation of bowel, generalised weakness, reduced appetite and weight loss since more than 6 years approached the outpatient department of Kayachikitsa, SDM Ayurveda hospital, Kuthpady, Udupi, Karnataka, India. Patient was intervened with Vilwadi Gulika, Dadimashtaka Churna, Kutajarishta, Takra Kalpana, Parpati Kalpana, Picha Basti etc. strictly following Laja diet with Takra in 4 courses of admissions with a time gap of 2-3 months. There was marked improvement in the frequency of loose stools and rectal bleeding. Improvement in weight was noted by a gain of 12 kg and generalised weakness was completely relieved. The therapy gained confidence in the patient to stop all the steroid and immunosuppressant medications completely and continue with Ayurvedic medication. Thus, it can be concluded that Ayurvedic interventions are effective in the improvement of symptoms in Crohn’s disease.

Patterns and Predictors of HIV Comorbidity among Adolescents and Young Adults in South Africa.

Adolescents and young adults (AYA) are identified as a high-risk group for HIV acquisition. However, health services are generally not sensitive to the needs of this priority population. In addition, multimorbidity (having more than one disease in an individual) is not well studied among AYA, as it is typically associated with older individuals. This paper reports on commonly co-occurring disease conditions and disease patterns in AYA, aged 15-24 years, who took part in the 2016 South African Demographic and Health Survey. Chi-squared tests and logistic regression were used to examine the weighted prevalence of disease among those with/without HIV, and the risk factors associated with HIV. Latent class analysis (LCA) was conducted to identify common co-occurring diseases. Of the 1787 individuals included in our analysis, the weighted prevalence of HIV was 8.7%. Hypertension (30.5%), anaemia (35.8%) and diabetes (2.0%) were more prevalent among those with HIV. HIV and anaemia, hypertension and anaemia, and HIV and hypertension comprise the largest disease burden of co-occurring diseases. Co-morbidity was high among those with HIV, emphasizing the need for integrated care of HIV and non-communicable diseases.

Navigating the Caregiving Pathway: Understanding the Contextual Influences on Sense of Coherence Among Family Caregivers.

Family caregivers of patients with chronic conditions face challenges such as emotional and physical stress, which can lead to caregiver burden. A good sense of coherence (SOC) is crucial in promoting resilience, positive health outcomes, and coping. Caregivers with a high SOC are optimistic about their caregiving roles and finding meaning and purpose in their responsibilities. In this background, we looked into the contextual influences that facilitate or impede the sense of coherence of the family caregivers of patients with chronic conditions requiring home-based long-term care. We conducted telephonic interviews with 10 self-identified primary family caregivers of patients with chronic conditions. We utilized semi-structured interview guidelines, transcribed the interviews verbatim, and performed thematic analysis. Potential factors influencing caregivers' SOC were identified through inductive coding, allowing themes to emerge from the data. However, we report themes along the three components of SOC. Good knowledge about the disease conditions, open communication with care recipients and providers, and past caregiving experiences all contribute to improving comprehensibility. Insufficient knowledge about the condition could be distressing. Effective management requires adapting care strategies through learning, planning, and utilizing available resources, and support networks, too, play a crucial role. However, insufficient caregiver support and neglecting one's health can result in distress and disruptions in care management. Maintaining positive perspectives and ascribed values to interpersonal connections can enhance meaningfulness among caregivers. These interpretations may not apply to caregivers with affective disorders. Various aspects influence the comprehensibility, manageability, and meaningfulness pertaining to the situation of family caregivers, and these in turn impact their well-being and ability to provide quality care. Understanding these factors can help create support systems with targeted interventions and strategies to reduce caregiver burden and improve quality of life.

Multi analytical approach to find out the risk factors in terms of single nucleotide polymorphisms in patients with coronary artery disease in Indian Asian Population

Background &#x0D; Researches have revealed a connection between CAD (coronary artery disease) and genetics, with various biochemical tests established to evaluate its severity. The incorporation of bioinformatics has advanced biomedical research and improved data management efficiency. The current study's objective was to identify risk factors in terms of Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms, associated with CAD in an Indian Asian population, utilizing a combined approach&#x0D; Methods&#x0D; The present study was completed in two phases: First phase was a literature search for susceptible SNPs and Second comprised of a cross sectional study. In first phase, using bioinformatic techniques like PubMed parser and Natural Language Processing (NLP) and manual search, we tried to find out susceptible polymorphisms to CAD. In second step, Global Screening Array (GSA) (Illumina) was performed in extracted DNA samples of 97cases and 36 controls. Different biochemical tests like Hemogram, Lipids, Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS), LFT, KFT, Vitamin D and HbA1C were also done as per standard protocol.&#x0D; Results&#x0D; In literature search from 134 studies conducted across several continents and various populations with more a million cases and controls, we could retrieve a comprehensive dataset of 261 susceptible SNPs with pooled Odd’s ratio of 1.196.&#x0D; On observing 261susceptible SNPs in our GSA results, we could find 5 SNPs with significant p value including rs187238 of IL-18 gene at chromosome 11, rs731236 and rs2228570 of VDR gene at chromosome 12, rs11556218 of gene IL16 at chromosome 15 and rs5882 of CETP gene at chromosome 16. The earlier studies had reported association of these with several disease conditions and for CAD, pathways related to endothelial damage, susceptibility of vitamin D receptor (VDR) polymorphisms and lowering HDL-cholesterol and ultimately causing CAD. But among Indian population, all only rs5882 has been studied in CAD cases and that too has not shown any association. The polymorphisms regarding VDR gene are also novel in Indian population, further biochemical co-relation done in both cases and controls revealed more percentage of Vitamin D deficient in healthy controls.&#x0D; Conclusion&#x0D; To conclude, a set of 261 susceptible SNPs for CAD was gathered and out of which association of 5 SNPs in the Indian Asian population was observed. Further, this pool can be validated in different ethnic groups and may provide a valuable screening tool to separate the vulnerable high-risk population where primary prevention strategies can be implemented. We could find, the Vitamin D deficiency may be key reason for developing the disease and further, an alarming condition for seemingly healthy population.