Enzyme-linked Fluorescent Assay Research Articles

A prospective study on the quantification of anti-HBs antibody titers of vaccinated health care workers in a tertiary care teaching hospital by using automated enzyme linked fluorescent assay

Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection poses a major health problem among health care workers (HCWs). Globally, 350 million peoples have infected, and it was estimated by WHO. CDC has recommended HBV vaccination for all health care workers. The objective was to determine the anti-HBs antibodies titres among health care workers using automated enzyme linked fluorescent assay (ELFA).Methods: This prospective study was conducted in department of microbiology, tertiary care hospital. The test samples have been collected from health care workers who have completed the course of vaccination. VIDAS anti-HBs total II (AHBS) assay was initiated according to the manufacturer’s instructions.Results: Out of 100 subjects, 62% showed positive for anti-HBs antibodies and the remaining 38% showed negative. Positivity of anti-HBs antibody titers ranges from 27 mIU/ml to 500 mIU/ml.Conclusions: In the present study, 100 subjects have been selected based on the HBV vaccination with completion of three doses of vaccination. Presence of anti-HBs antibodies titers against the vaccination is fully immunized. The study was determined the vaccinated status of anti-HBs antibodies against the infection among clinicians, nurses and CRRIs and it has to be revealed at regular intervals of every 6 to 8 months. 

Correlation Of Platelet-To-Lymphocyte Ratio And Troponin I Levels In Patients With St-Elevation Myocardial Infarction

INTRODUCTION:  Platelet and lymphocyte are significant in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) pathogenesis. Platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) is a systemic biomarker which indicates thrombosis and inflammation. The diagnosis of AMI can be made by detecting elevated blood troponin I levels. The correlation between PLR and troponin I levels in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients has not been widely known. AIM                : The objective of this study is to determine the correlation between PLR and troponin I levels in STEMI patients. METHODS    : This study was a cross-sectional study which data were obtained from the medical records of patients with STEMI admitted to Dr. Kariadi General Hospital Semarang from 2019 to 2020. Serum Troponin I levels were measured with Enzyme-Linked Fluorescent Assay (ELFA) method in less than 24 hours from symptoms onset. Complete blood counts were performed immediately on hospital admission. Correlations between variables were obtained using Spearman's test. RESULTS      : A total of 28 STEMI patients were included, 82.1% were male, mean age was 55.81 ± 2.13 years old. Mean symptoms onset was 7.52 ± 0.81 hours prior to admission. Mean PLR and troponin I levels were 233.32 ± 25.54 and 14.44 ± 3.16 μg/l, respectively. A moderately significant correlation was detected between troponin I levels and PLR in STEMI patients (r=0.333; p=0.042). Symptoms onset in STEMI patients had significant correlation to troponin I levels (r=0.596; p=0.001). CONCLUSION : A moderate positive correlation between PLR and troponin I levels is observed within 24 hours from symptoms onset in STEMI patients. KEYWORDS: Platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio; ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction; troponin I

Selective biomarkers for inflammation and infection are associated with post-operative complications following transperineal template prostate biopsy (TTPB): a single-centre observational clinical pilot-study

BackgroundProstate cancer (PCa) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) are the most common prostate disorders in the UK, which cause considerable ill health in older men. Transperineal template prostate biopsy (TTPB) has emerged as a reliable procedure for the histopathological diagnosis of PCa and BPH due to its higher cancer detection rates. Although antiseptic preparation and antibiotic prophylaxis are used to ensure safety in patients undergoing surgical intervention, post-operative complications, such as infection and bleeding are still unavoidable, resulting in re-admissions, with resource implications. Currently, there is no biomarker profile to predict outcomes or monitor patients during the post-operative course. The main aim of this single-centre observational clinical pilot-study was to investigate the role of inflammatory and infection biomarkers following TTPB and their association with post-operative complications.MethodsForty-five patients scheduled for elective TTPB were recruited after informed consent at the Wrexham Maelor and Glan Clwyd Hospitals, North Wales, UK (n = 45). Prior to surgery, venous blood samples were collected at baseline and subsequently at 30, 120, and 240 min post-operatively. Urine samples were collected before and 120 min after the procedure. Serum procalcitonin (PCT), serum ferritin, and urine B2MG analysis were done using enzyme-linked fluorescent assay (ELFA) and the magnetic Luminex® multiplex performance assay was used to analyse IL-6, IL-8, IL-10 and TNF-α plasma concentrations. Data on clinical outcomes were collected from patients’ medical records.ResultsFollowing TTPB, significant (p ≤ 0.05) increases were observed in uB2MG, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10 and TNF-α. Significant decreases were observed in ferritin (p ≤ 0.05). No significant change was observed in PCT concentration (p ≥ 0.05). One patient developed an infection and severe haematuria post-operatively following TTPB.ConclusionAlthough not confirmative, changes seen in biomarkers such as uB2MG, IL-10 and TNF-α in our observational clinical pilot-study may warrant further investigation, involving larger cohorts, to fully understand the role of these biomarkers and their potential association with post-operative complications such as infection and bleeding which can develop following TTPB for the diagnosis of PCa and BPH.

Anti-Müllerian hormone concentrations in female rabbits and its relation to spay status, pseudopregnancy and ovarian follicle numbers.

Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), known for its role during foetal sexual differentiation, is secreted by the Sertoli cells in males and the granulosa cells in females during post-natal life. As serum AMH concentrations correlate with follicle numbers, AMH is utilized as a marker of ovarian reserve in many species. In dogs and cats, AMH is used as a diagnostic tool to determine spay or neuter status. In the available literature, no research regarding serum AMH levels in rabbits has been published yet. The objectives of the present study were to (1) measure serum AMH concentrations in female rabbits and investigate the value of AMH as a diagnostic tool to differentiate between spayed and intact does and (2) relate measured AMH levels to pseudopregnancy and ovarian follicle numbers. For AMH measurement, serum samples were obtained from sexually intact (n=64) and spayed (n=22) female rabbits. Spayed does were of various breeds; intact rabbits were Zika hybrid rabbits. In the intact does, AMH measurement was complemented by determination of progesterone levels, gynaecological examination and histopathological evaluation of the uterus and ovaries, including follicle counts. Serum AMH and progesterone concentrations were measured using a human-based chemiluminescence immunoassay (CLIA) and an enzyme-linked fluorescence assay (ELFA), respectively. Depending on progesterone levels, sexually intact does were classified into follicular (n=52) or luteal phase (n=12). Median serum AMH levels were 1.53 ng/ml (range 0.77-3.36 ng/ml) in intact and 0.06 ng/ml (range ≤0.01-0.23 ng/ml) in spayed does. AMH concentrations between the intact and spayed rabbits differed significantly and did not overlap (p < .001). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis yielded a sensitivity and specificity of 100% for a cut-off level of 0.50 ng/ml. Follicular or luteal phase had no significant influence on measured AMH levels (t=0.061, df=62, p=.951). While the number of secondary follicles correlated significantly with AMH concentrations (rs =0.410, p=.001), the number of primary or antral follicles did not (rs =0.241, p=.055 and rs =0.137, p=.281, respectively). In conclusion, a single determination of serum AMH concentrations was adequate to distinguish spayed from intact female rabbits. Among sexually intact individuals, whether does were in follicular or luteal phase had no significant influence on measured serum AMH concentrations. The relationship between small growing follicles and AMH levels as described in other species could be partially confirmed, as secondary follicles correlated significantly with AMH.

Status of Vitamin D among Patients Admitted with Acute Exacerbation of COPD in Cox’s Bazar Medical College Hospital

Background: Acute exacerbations of COPD (AECOPD) are common and strongly affect disease severity and relative healthcare costs. Vitamin D deficiency is frequent among COPD patients and its role in disease exacerbations is widely debated. Method: This study was carried out in the medicine department of Cox’s Bazar medical college. A total of 50 patients admitted with AECOPD were selected consecutively who had given consent and agreed to carry out 25 (OH) D level assays during the period from January 2021 to December 2021. Inclusion criteria were patients with confirmed cases of COPD. At the enrolment visit, patients were subjected to full clinical history and examination, and pulmonary function testing. Vitamin D [25 hydroxyvitamin D, 25(OH) D] assay was done by Automated Immunoassay Analyzer Model “MINI-VIDAS” using Biomerieux reagent in ELFA (Enzyme linked fluorescence assay) Technology. Vitamin D deficiency was defined as 25(OH) D &lt;=20ng/ml, Vitamin D insufficiency was recognized as 21-29 ng/ml and Vitamin D level &gt;30 ng/ ml was recognized as sufficient. Results: Among 50 patients 38 were males and 12 were females. The mean age of patients in this study was 72.2±13.8 years. The mean 25(OH) D level was 22.026±6.0519 ng/ml (95%CI 8.1-40.2). The mean level of vitamin D in males was (22.06±6.08 ng/ml) and in females (21.93±6.24ng/ml) (P= 0.948). Associated comorbidities are present in 54% of patients, among which Hypertension (HTN) contributes in 26%, Diabetes Mellitus (DM) in 18%, coronary artery disease (CAD) in 8%, and cerebrovascular disease (CVD) in 2%. The majority of the participants were former smokers (60%), and the mean pack-year of smoking was 22.09±6.14. In this study, vitamin D levels did not differ among various smoking groups. It was 21.9±8.1 ng/ml in non-smokers, 21.4±5.1 ng/ml in current smokers, and 22.3±6.1 ng/ml in ex-smokers groups (P= 0.904). 56% of the patients belong to low socioeconomic conditions in this study, and 42% were from lower-middle-class families. Most of the patients (86%) were from rural areas, followed by 10% from urban areas and 2% from slum areas. Regarding vocational status, 70% were retired, 10% were housemakers, farmers 6%, and the rest were service holders or business people with mean vitamin D levels of 22.2±5.9 ng/ml, 20.1±8.6 ng/ml, 24.3±2.8 ng/ml and 21.4±6.5 ng/ml respectively. The majority (44%) of patients had mMRC Grade -2 dyspnea, followed by 40% in Grade- 1, 10% in Grade-3, and only 6% of patients had Grade- 4 dyspnea. In the study, only 12% of the patients had sufficient levels of serum vitamin D. The majority had an insufficient level of serum vitamin D (52%) and 36% had a deficient level of serum vitamin D. Conclusion: This study finds a high prevalence of hypovitaminosis D (88%) in AECOPD patients. Vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency are more prevalent in females. In this study, vitamin D levels did not differ between smoking groups. J MEDICINE 2022; 23: 121-125

Parathyroid Hormone-25(OH)D and Calcium-Phosphorus Ratio as Osteopenia Risk Factors in Women with Central Obesity

BACKGROUND: Central obesity has a close association with inflammation and the state of bone mass. Osteopenia is an abnormal condition of bone density. Bone mass density is influenced by several factors, such as 25(OH)D, parathyroid hormone (PTH), calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P). The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of PTH-25(OH)D and Ca-P ratio as risk factors for osteopenia in women with central obesity.METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted in September 2020 to March 2021. The total subjects were 130 women aged 25-50 years old with central obesity. The diagnosis of osteopenia was done using dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) to measure bone mineral density. Enzyme linked fluorescent assay (ELFA) method was done to measure PTH and 25(OH)D levels, ion selective electrode method to measure Ca, and photometer method to measure P level. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to determine the optimal cut-off value and calculated prevalence ratio (PR) for osteopenia risks, followed by logistic regression analysis.RESULTS: The PR of PTH level was 10.18 (95% CI: 1.15–5.85; p=0.01); the PTH-25(OH)D ratio was 5.12 (95% CI: 1.13–23.19; p=0.04); Ca level was 6.0 (95% CI: 1.33–27.14; p=0.02) and Ca-P ratio was 4.89 (95%CI: 1.33–17.97; p=0.02). The PR for PTH together with Ca level was 18.71 (95% CI: 2.17–160.40; p=0.008).CONCLUSION: The PTH-25(OH)D ratio and the Ca-P ratio are risk factors for the incidence of osteopenia in women with central obesity. A high PTH-25(OH)D ratio and a high Ca-P ratio would have a higher risk of developing osteopenia in this population.KEYWORDS: CRP, PTH-25(OH)D, Ca-P, osteopenia, central obesity, women

Correlation of serum ferritin levels and COVID-19 severity in Makassar

Background: Covid-19 pandemic has become a global problem. One of parameters to assessed the severity of Covid-19 disease was ferritin. Limited researches of ferritin with Covid-19 in Makassar. Aim: Determine relationship between serum ferritin levels and severity of Covid-19. Method: A cross-sectional by taking primary data of Covid-19 patients aged ≥18 years in 67 samples at Unhas Hospital Makassar in September 2020-May 2021. Pregnant women and have a history of chronic infection were excluded. Serum ferritin levels(ng/mL) was measured by the Enzyme Linked Fluorescent Assay(ELFA) method, mini VIDAS Biomerieux. Kruskal Wallis difference test and Spearman correlation test were performed. ROC curve to determine the cut-off point. Results: Total of 67 confirmed Covid-19 patients aged 18-63 years, with highest number being women(53.7%). Total of 27(40.3%) had comorbidities. Covid-19 patients at mild(53.7%), moderate(23.9%), and severe(22.4%). There is significant difference between serum ferritin levels and severity of Covid-19(p&lt;0.001). Ferritin levels were also strongly positively correlated with severity of Covid-19(r=0.754, p&lt;0.001). Cut-off ferritin at mild-moderate patients=153.89 ng/mL, and cut-off ferritin at mortality=1145.54 ng/mL.Discussion: Ferritin is a major mediator of immune dysregulation. Ferritin contributes cytokine storms. So serum ferritin levels can be used as a predictor severity of Covid-19.

Aptamer loaded superparamagnetic beads for selective capturing and gentle release of activated protein C

Activated protein C (APC) is a serine protease with anticoagulant and cytoprotective activities which make it an attractive target for diagnostic and therapeutic applications. In this work, we present one-step activation of APC from a commercial source of protein C (PC, Ceprotin) followed by rapid and efficient purification using an APC-specific aptamer, HS02-52G, loaded on MyOne superparamagnetic beads. Due to the Ca2+-dependent binding of APC to HS02-52G, an efficient capturing of APC was applied in the presence of Ca2+ ions, while a gentle release of captured APC was achieved in the elution buffer containing low EDTA concentration (5 mM). The captured and eluted APC showed more than 95% purity according to SDS-PAGE gel analysis and an enzyme-linked fluorescent assay (VIDAS Protein C). The purification yield of 45% was calculated when 4.2 µg APC was used, however this yield reduced to 21% if the starting amount of APC increased to 28.5 µg. Altogether, this method is recommended for rapid and efficient PC activation and APC purification. The purified APC can be used directly for downstream processes where high concentration of pure and active APC is needed.

Role of IgG and IgM and proinflammatory non-specific markers in the diagnosis and prognosis of COVID-19 patients stratified by number of positive SARS-CoV-2 genes.

A prompt set of suitable biomarkers is needed in suspected COVID-19 patients. This study aims to assess patients positive for one or more gene associated with the C reactive protein (CRP) and procalcitonin (PCT) as non-specific pro-inflammatory markers and IgG and IgM kinetic as specific diagnostic and prognostic tools in SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR positive patients. We enrolled 101 patients within a two month time span (March 26th, 2020 to May 31st, 2020). A reverse transcription-Real-Time PCR assay on nasopharyngeal/oropharyngeal swabs was used for SARS-CoV-2 identification. Serum anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgM and IgG were measured by enzyme immunoassay, PCT levels by Enzyme linked fluorescent assay (ELFA)and CRP by nephelometry. We found that older patients were significantly associated with a worse prognosis. Serum IgM levels were significantly lower during the late stage of the disease, regardless of the presence of one or three genes and patients' outcome. On the contrary, IgG levels exhibited a higher concentration in the late phases of the illness, regardless of the gene found or patients' prognosis. With the exception of the very first sample tested, an increase in CRP in surviving patients (both one and three genes) and a time-dependent decrease of deceased patients CRP was found. PCT levels were always within the normal reference range. The difference between one gene and three genes patients was significant during late disease stages regarding IgG levels and also between three genes survivors versus three genes deceased, where the IgG levels were progressively increasing over time. The relevant finding of the present study is the significant and consistent increase of IgG and IgM in deceased patients. The associated evaluation of antibody kinetics and non specific inflammatory markers (CRP and PCT) in positive patients stratified according to the presence of one gene or three genes could help the clinician in both the diagnosis and prognosis of COVID-19 patients.

Clostridium difficile infection after ileostomy closure and anastomotic failure in rectal cancer surgery patients.

BackgroundDiverting ileostomy during resection of rectal cancer is frequently performed in patients at risk of anastomotic failure. Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) is reported to be frequent in patients who receive ileostomy closure with a questionable association to postoperative anastomosis leak. The primary aim of this study was to determine the incidence of CDI following ileostomy closure in patients who underwent rectal cancer surgery; the secondary aim was to assess the rate of postileostomy closure CDI in patients who presented with leakage at the original colorectal anastomosis site.MethodsMedical records of patients with rectal cancer who underwent ileostomy closure between January 2015 and December 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. All patients had previously received resection and anastomosis for primary rectal cancer with diverting ileostomy. Data regarding CDI incidence, preoperative status, perioperative management, and clinical outcomes were collected. CDI positivity was determined by direct real-time PCR and enzyme-linked fluorescent assays for detecting toxin A and B.Statistical analyses were computed for CDI risk factors.ResultsA total of 1270 patients were included and 208 patients were tested for CDI owing to colitis-related symptoms. The incidence of CDI was 3.6 per cent (46 patients). Multivariable analysis for CDI risk factors identified adjuvant chemotherapy (hazard ratio (HR) 2.28; P = 0.034) and colorectal anastomosis leakage prior to CDI (HR 3.75; P = 0.008). Finally, patients with CDI showed higher colorectal anastomosis leakage risk in multivariable analysis after ileostomy closure (HR 6.922; P = 0.001).ConclusionPatients with CDI presented with a significantly higher rate of colorectal anastomosis leakage prior to ileostomy closure.

Performance of the Enzyme Linked Fluorescent Assay in Diagnosis of HIV Infection; Comparative Evaluation with other Methods.

Our study aimed to investigate the role of the enzyme linked fluorescent assay (ELFA) method in the diagnosis of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection by comparing it with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and chemiluminescent microplate immunoassay (CMIA) methods and its role in the HIV diagnostic algorithm and to update the recommended algorithm for HIV testing. We evaluated 101 HIV-reactive and 101 HIV-negative specimens. All samples were studied with the methods of anti HIV1/2 test micro-ELISA, ELFA, and CMIA. At the same time, HIV RNA PCR and western blot (WB)/rapid immunochromatographic test (RICT) were also studied with the same samples. All HIV RNA and WB positive samples (n = 101) were positive with micro-ELISA, CMIA and ELFA. Twenty-five negative samples of HIV RNA and WB were positive with micro-ELISA and CMIA, while just 6 samples were positive with ELFA. When all samples were evaluated together, the false positivity rate of the ELFA method was found to be 5.9%, and the false positivity rates of the micro-ELISA and CMIA methods were determined to be 31.7% and 30.7%, respectively. It was determined that there is a high level of agreement between the ELFA method and confirmation tests. It was thought that it might take place in the preconfirmation stage. As can be seen from the results obtained, the false positive rate by ELFA method was found to be about five times lower than that of micro-ELISA and CMIA methods. Considering that antigen (p24) and antibody positivity can be given separately with this aspect, it can be considered that there is a confirmation place in HIV diagnosis algorithm.

Seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 among the Healthcare Workers of a Tertiary Care Hospital of Northeast India during First Wave of COVID-19 Pandemic: A Hospital-based Cross-sectional Study

Introduction: During Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID19) pandemic, Healthcare Workers (HCWs) are the frontline personals who are engaged in different facilities of the health system. So they always remain at a greater risk of exposure and acquiring the disease. They may also become a potential source of infection to the other patients as well to the community. Aim: To estimate the seroprevalence of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-COV-2) specific Immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies among asymptomatic, COVID-19 negative HCWs of a tertiary care hospital. Materials and Methods: This hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Microbiology in a tertiary care hospital of North-East India. A total of 215 HCWs were recruited from 15th October to 14th December 2020 after taking written and informed consent. Inclusion criteria were: a) &gt;18 years of age and both genders, b) asymptomatic, negative for COVID19 either by Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) or Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR), c) working in the hospital for atleast last four months. Predesigned questionnaire was used for data collection. Serum samples were tested for SARSCoV-2 IgG antibodies by Enzyme Linked Fluorescence Assay (ELFA) using VIDAS (VITEK ImmunoDiagnostic Assay System) platform. Chi-square test was used (Epi Info version 7 software) for data analysis. Results: The prevalence of SARS-COV-2 IgG was 54 (25.12%) out of 215, which was highest in ≤30 years age group, 27 (32.14 %) out of 84 (p=0.0261). Significant seropositivity was found among cleaners 22 (61.11%) out of 36 (p&lt;0.01) and participants who reported having COVID-19-related symptoms in the previous months (p&lt;0.013). However gender, daily patient contact, close contact with COVID-19 cases and working in COVID-19 units showed no significance. Conclusion: The study highlighted a high burden of asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection among HCWs. A proper surveillance system is needed for estimating the burden of COVID-19 among HCWs as well as in the community for better understanding of the dynamics of the infection.

Determination of Low IgG Class Antibody Avidity Percentage by IgM Levels Specific to Toxoplasma Gondii.

Ig (Immunglobulin) M detection and low avidity index are markers of recent infection in differentiating acute and chronic stages of Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) infections. In this study, we aimed to evaluate whether the anti-T. gondii IgM antibody index threshold value could be a predictive factor in the estimation of low avidity and its use in improving the diagnosis of early toxoplasma infection. Anti-T. gondii IgM, IgG antibody and IgG avidity results were analyzed. Anti-T. gondii IgG and IgM antibodies in blood samples were studied with chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (CMIA), and IgG avidity test was performed with Enzyme Linked Fluorescent Assay (ELFA) technique. The overall seroprevalence of anti-T. gondii antibodies (IgG and/or IgM) was 19.4%. Of the 64 patients whose avidity tests were studied, 47 (73.4%) were female. Twenty seven (57.4%) of the women were pregnant. In the IgG avidity test, 7.8% low avidity was detected. Low avidity was detected in only 4 (15.4%) of 26 IgM positive cases. IgM analysis of a case (6-month-old baby) with low avidity was found to be negative. In the prediction of low avidity, the assay's IgM positivity cutoff value was ≥ 0.6, its sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value were 80%, 62.7%, 2.3%, and 99.7%, respectively. With Architect, 37.3% of samples were false positive. Determining the IgM index cutoff value was unsuccessful in distinguishing low avidity. The area under the ROC curve was 0.574 (p = 0.60). In our study, the positive predictive value of the IgM test kit in estimating low avidity was low and the false positivity rate was 37.3%. It is thought that the index cutoff value of the anti-T. gondii IgM antibody test kit cannot be considered as a good predictor of recent infection. Studies with larger patient groups are needed.

Procena nivoa testosterona, dehidroepiandrosterona i prolaktina kod parova sa sterilitetom inficiranih i neinficiranih parazitom Toxoplasma gondii, koji su posećivali Centar za lečenje steriliteta Fatma Al-Zahra u Babolu, u Iranu

Introduction/Aims: Toxoplasmosis modifies various hormones and cytokines in the infected hosts which may result in several disorders. This study was conducted to assess testosterone, DHEA, and prolactin concentration levels among Toxoplasma gondii infected and uninfected infertile couples. Methods: Blood samples were collected and sera were separated. The sera were analyzed for the detection of anti-Toxoplasma (IgG&amp; IgM) antibodies using commercial ELISA kits. The level of DHEA was measured by ELISA and the levels of testosterone and prolactin were evaluated by enzyme-linked fluorescent assay (ELFA, VIDAS). Results: The overall seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis was 58.0% (218/376). Among women, 56.9% (107/188) and 6.5% (7/107) were positive for anti-T. gondii antibodies IgG and IgM, respectively. The IgG and IgM were detected in the sera of 111/188 (59.0%) and 9/111 (8.1%) in male subjects, respectively. A positive association was observed between T. gondii infection and the upper and lower ranges of the normal value of testosterone in males (x 2 = 6.8, p = 0.033) but not in females (x 2 = 0.62, p = 0.99). A positive correlation was seen between toxoplasmosis and the upper and lower ranges of the normal value of prolactin in females (x 2 = 6.5, p = 0.039) but not in male cases (x 2 = 1.06, p = 0.59). Conclusion: Our results demonstrated no statistically significant differences between the level of sexual hormones between Toxoplasma-infected individuals and Toxoplasma-free subjects suffering from infertility. These findings suggest that further studies should be performed on infertile cases with large sample sizes in a case-control format.

Evaluation of Staphylococcus aureus growth and staphylococcal enterotoxin production in delicatessen and fine bakery products

Staphylococcal food poisoning is one of the most prevalent causes of foodborne intoxication worldwide. Sandwiches and desserts are susceptible to contamination by S. aureus due to the high proportion of manual work during their production. Our study aimed to evaluate the impact of storage conditions on staphylococcal enterotoxin production in sandwiches and buttercream puffs. Foods were inoculated with different S. aureus strains capable of producing type A, B, and C staphylococcal enterotoxins and incubated at 15, 25, and 30 °C. During the storage, samples were analysed for S. aureus counts and for staphylococcal enterotoxins. An enzyme-linked fluorescence assay was used to detect staphylococcal enterotoxins. The influence of inappropriate storage on S. aureus growth and staphylococcal enterotoxin production was evaluated. No staphylococcal enterotoxins were detected in sandwiches stored for 72 h at any of the tested temperatures. In buttercream puffs, enterotoxins type A, B, and C were detected within 24 h of storage at 25 °C.

Performance of immunochromatographic and immunoenzymatic techniques in the diagnosis of toxoplasmosis in pregnant women in Cameroon: need for harmonization.

in order to contribute to the improvement of the management of toxoplasmosis in pregnant women in Cameroon, performance of two techniques commonly used in the diagnosis of toxoplasmosis was evaluated. a total of 541 pregnant women were recruited from seven hospitals in two Regions of Cameroon, of which 63% (341: Batch1) were from health facilities (HF) using a immunochromatographic technique (ICT) as a screening test for toxoplasmosis, and 37% (200: Batch2) from those using an immunoenzymatic technique (IEZ). On each sample, Ig (Immunoglobulin) G (IgG) and IgM were tested by three techniques: a Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT), an Enzyme Linked Immuno Sorbent Assay (ELISA) and a Vidas Enzyme-linked fluorescent assay taken as reference (VIDAS/ELFA). The results from the health facilities were recorded. for the IgG assay, our two laboratory methods were sensitive (96.0% and 97.5%) and specific (64.2% and 59.7%). Their concordance rates with the VIDAS/ELFA reference were above 60% (P<0.001). Moreover, for the IgM assay, the performances of the two methods were equivalent: Se= 18.2%, Sp= 99.4% with a low concordance rate (Kappa = 0.24). Considering the results provided by the selected hospitals, the ELISA used in Batch2 showed similar performances to the two techniques used in reference lab while the performances were low for the RDT used in Batch1. both methods showed similar performances (good for (IgG) and poor for IgM). However, for the immunochromatographic method, differences in performance were found between our results and those provided by the selected health facilities. These differences suggest a harmonization of diagnostic techniques for toxoplasmosis in pregnant women in Cameroonian health facilities.

Correlation of Vitamin D Levels with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Cross-sectional Study

Objective: To compare vitamin D status in, women with PCOS &amp; fertile women without PCOS and its subsequent evaluation.&#x0D; Introduction: PCOS is an endocrine disorder of women in reproductive age, characterised by obesity, hyperandrogenaemia and insulin resistance. Women with PCOS tend to be overweight and have increased risk of development of Type II Diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Exact Etiology of PCOS still remain an enigmatic dilemma however various studies conducted till date include diet and lifestyle modification as the key factor to promote health, BMI, reduced hyperinsulinemia and reduce the risk of development of PCOS.&#x0D; Main aim of our study was to compare vitamin D status in women having PCOS, with fertile women in a tertiary care hospital in Uttarakhand.&#x0D; Methodology: The conducted study was cross sectional, involving the enrolment of 100 women comprising of 50 women with PCOS and 50 fertile women without PCOS. Participants were selected from gynaecological OPD at Shri Mahant Indiresh Hospital, associated with Shri Guru Ram Rai Institute of Medical Sciences, Dehradun from July 2019 to January 2020. The diagnostic criteria of PCOS used was the Rotterdam criteria. The serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D and other metabolic markers were measured. Vitamin D deficiency was defined as serum 25 (OH) D concentrations less than 20 ng/ml measured on an instrument named as miniVidas (BioMerieux, Germany) based on ELFA (enzyme linked fluorescent assay).&#x0D; Results: Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D was significantly lower in women with PCOS compared to fertile controls (p&lt; 0.0001), and the prevalence rates of 25(OH) D deficiency and insufficiency were higher in women with PCOS than in fertile women (p &lt; 0.0001). The study results showed that the prevalence of 25 (OH) D deficiencies in PCOS women was significantly high. Serum 25 (OH) D concentrations were significantly negatively correlated with body mass index (BMI), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), fasting insulin, total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), (P &lt; 0.05). In comparison, serum 25 (OH) D concentrations were significantly positively correlated with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) (P &lt; 0.05). Increased BMI and WHR, high levels of fasting insulin, total cholesterol and LDL-C were regarded as risk factors, but high level of HDL-C was considered to be protective factor of vitamin D deficiency in PCOS women.&#x0D; Conclusion: The study demonstrated that women with PCOS have a significantly lower 25(OH) D compared to fertile controls. A compromised vitamin D status in PCOS women is associated with a higher prevalence and metabolic risk of PCOS in women.

Correlation between Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Infection in Children with Cerebral Palsy (CP) and Future Anxiety among Parents

One of the causes of Cerebral Palsy (CP) is a viral infection in the mother during pregnancy. The most recorded infections were Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections. Inappropriate parenting can affect the psychological condition of CP children. Psychological conditions that are not good can cause the child's immune system to decrease and increase the risk of CMV reactivation. This is one factor in the emergence of parental anxiety about the future sustainability of their CP children. It was to determine the relationship of anti-cytomegalovirus (CMV) Immunoglobulin G in children with CP with future anxiety among parents. The design of this study used a cross-sectional approach that using CP children and their parents. Serological examination used the ELFA (Enzyme-Linked Fluorescent Assay) method for 40 CP children and a questionnaire on the future anxiety of parents of children with special needs were answered directly by the parents of CP children, 40 fathers and 40 mothers. Analysis of the research data used Spearman Rank. The results of this study found an anti-CMV IgG seropositive relationship in CP children with future anxiety in fathers (p-value = 0.022; a 0.05) and mothers (p-value = 0.011; a 0.05). If anxiety in parents has not good treatment, it will impact the care of CP children, the developmental progress of CP children will not optimal.

Prevalence of HIV and hepatitis B virus among pregnant women in Luanda (Angola): geospatial distribution and its association with socio-demographic and clinical-obstetric determinants

BackgroundHIV and HBV infections remain responsible for high rate of morbidity and mortality in many African Countries, affecting women and newborns. This study aims to analyze the spatial pattern of HIV and HBV infections in pregnant women in Luanda, Angola, and the statistical association between HIV and HBV and socio-economic characteristics, hygiene, and health status.MethodsDetection of anti-HIV antibodies (total anti-HIV-1, anti-HIV-2 and HIV-1 p24 antigen) and Hepatitis B antigens (HBsAg, HBeAg) and antibodies (anti-HBc Total II, HBc IgM, Anti-HBsT II) was performed by Enzyme Linked Fluorescent Assay (ELFA) in serum samples of 878 pregnant women attended at the Lucrecia Paim Maternity Hospital (LPMH). Data were collected by questionnaire after written consent, and spatial distribution was assessed through a Kernel Density Function. The potential risk factors associated with HIV HBV infection were evaluated using bivariate and multivariate binomial logistic regression analysis.ResultsAnti-HIV antibodies were positive in 118 samples (13.4%) and HBV infection were positive in 226 (25.7%). The seroprevalence of HIV/HBV coinfection was of 6.3%. The results showed that the seroprevalence of HBV was similar in most municipalities: 25.8% in Belas; 26.6% in Viana; 27.6% in Luanda; 19.2% in Cacuaco; and 15.6% Cazenga. For HIV, the seroprevalence was also close ranges among the municipalities: 10.0% in Belas; 14.5% in Viana 14.9% in Luanda and 12.5% in Cazenga. However, the seroprevalence in municipality of in Cacuaco was lower (5.8%) and bivariate and multivariate analysis showed a lower risk for HIV in this area (OR 0.348, CI 0.083–0.986; OR 0.359, CI 0.085–1.021). The multivariate analysis had also showed a significant increased risk for HIV in women with 2 or 3 births (OR 1.860, CI 1.054–3.372).ConclusionsOur results underlined the need to improve the screening and clinical follow-up of HIV and HBV in Angola, as well the educational campaigns to prevent not only the morbidity and mortality associated with these diseases, but also their transmission, mainly in women in reproductive age and pregnant, encouraging the pre-natal consultations in order to avoid mother-to-child transmission.

Prevalence and Determinants of Vitamin D Deficiency in 9595 Mongolian Schoolchildren: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Population-based data relating to vitamin D status of children in Northeast Asia are lacking. We conducted a cross-sectional study to determine the prevalence and determinants of vitamin D deficiency in 9595 schoolchildren aged 6–13 years in Ulaanbaatar (UB), the capital city of Mongolia. Risk factors for vitamin D deficiency were collected by questionnaire, and serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) concentrations were measured using an enzyme-linked fluorescent assay, standardized and categorized as deficient (25[OH]D <10 ng/mL) or not. Odds ratios for associations between independent variables and risk of vitamin D deficiency were calculated using multivariate analysis with adjustment for potential confounders. The prevalence of vitamins D deficiency was 40.6% (95% CI 39.7% to 41.6%). It was independently associated with female gender (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] for girls vs. boys 1.23, 95% CI 1.11–1.35), month of sampling (aORs for December–February vs. June–November 5.28 [4.53–6.15], March–May vs. June–November 14.85 [12.46–17.74]), lower levels of parental education (P for trend <0.001), lower frequency of egg consumption (P for trend <0.001), active tuberculosis (aOR 1.40 [1.03–1.94]), household smoking (aOR 1.13 [1.02 to1.25]), and shorter time outdoors (P for trend <0.001). We report a very high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency among Mongolian schoolchildren, which requires addressing as a public health priority.