Indian Population Research Articles

A Cephalometric Study Of Vertical Skeletal Changes After Extraction And Non-Extraction Fixed Orthodontic Treatment Of Class I Malocclusion In North Indian Population

Background: Orthodontic treatments frequently involve tooth extractions to address crowding and protrusion, but the effects of these extractions on vertical skeletal changes are still debated. Research has extensively covered aspects like soft tissue response and smile aesthetics, yet there is no consensus on their impact on vertical dimensions. This issue is particularly pertinent for hyperdivergent individuals, who make up about 22% of orthodontic patients. A proposed technique for such cases includes counterclockwise rotation of the lower jaw and advancement of posterior teeth to manage open bites or excessive vertical facial height. This study aims to compare vertical skeletal changes in Class I malocclusion patients undergoing extraction versus non-extraction fixed orthodontic treatments. Material and Methods: We analysed pre- and post-treatment lateral cephalometric radiographs from 60 Class I crowding patients, evenly split into extraction and non-extraction groups. Eight vertical skeletal parameters were assessed and compared statistically between the two groups. Superimposition analysis of radiograph tracings was used to explore vertical changes related to molar mesialization, particularly in the extraction group. Results: The extraction group demonstrated significant reductions in vertical skeletal dimensions compared to the non-extraction group. Measurements including FMA, SN-GoGn, Y-axis, SN-PP, and PP-MP showed significant differences, with reductions in the extraction group (P = 0.001). Procrustes superimposition indicated effective molar mesialization in the extraction group, which was not observed in the non-extraction group. Conclusion: Extraction of first premolars in fixed orthodontic treatment leads to a notable decrease in vertical skeletal dimensions, in contrast to the slight increase seen with non-extraction treatments. This reduction is largely due to molar mesialization, which enhances vertical skeletal dimensions and treatment stability in Class I crowding cases.

Evaluation of prevalence, predisposing factors, inter-species differences in clinical profile and outcome of Campylobacter blood-stream infections: A 7-year experience from north India

Purpose: A comprehensive study evaluating prevalence, risk factors and outcome of Campylobacter bloodstream infection (CBSI) in Indian population is lacking. Methods: A retrospective analysis of blood culture specimens positive for Campylobacter species over a 7-year period (September 2013 to August 2020) was conducted. Campylobacter species were identified using MALDI-TOF MS and patients’ details were retrieved from hospital records. Results: 39 episodes from 38 patients were reported (0.15% of all BSI), with one case of recurrence. The median age was 10 years. 54.5% patients presented with gastrointestinal symptoms. Steroid-dependent nephrotic syndrome predisposed paediatric patients (27.3%) and liver cirrhosis predisposed adult patients (81.8%) to CBSI. Conclusion: C. jejuni was the most prevalent species (59%) followed by C. coli (25.6%) and C. fetus (15.4%). C. fetus infection was seen in immunocompetent patients (p=0.01) and was associated with longer hospital stay (p=0.01). Overall outcome of CBSI was good.

Changing Agriculture Patterns and Environment Concerns

Over fifty-percent of India's population depends on agriculture for their living, as it plays a major role in the country's food security. Agriculture has been and is still the foundation of the Indian economy. From Post-Independence subsistence-oriented and feudal systems to modern technologically sophisticated and market-driven agriculture, the sector's history is shaped by government reforms, technological advances, and socio-economic shifts. In this context this paper examines the Post-Independence agrarian structure, the transformative Green Revolution which comes with a number of environment concerns ranging from increased green-house gas emission contributing to global warming and climate change accompanied by land degradation, soil and water pollution. The paper also critically assesses the implications of climate change on crop production, water resources, and rural health and livelihoods and outlines future directions for sustaining agricultural growth and ensuring food security.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD): A comparative study of clinico-socio-demographic characteristics among two diverse Indian population

Objectives. The prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is increasing not only in India but also globally. The aim of this observational study was to determine the clinico-pathological findings of NAFLD patients in two different geographic populations in India. Material and methods. This hospital-based cross-sectional study involved 140 consecutive patients with NAFLD from four centers, primarily diagnosed by ultrasound in Uttar Pradesh (Varanasi) and Odisha (Khordha). Clinical and sociodemographic data were collected from each patient of both the states and were compared. Outcomes. The study findings revealed that most of NAFLD patients were males (71.4%), aged around 39.6±10.86 years, with BMI indicating overweight (27.68 ± 4.25 Kg/m2). Patients from Uttar Pradesh (UP) had non-significantly higher rates of elevated transaminase levels [SGOT/SGPT- 40.2 (41.53)/47.35(60.93) IU/L], compared to those from Odisha [SGOT/SGPT-26(23.15)/29(45.40) IU/L]. Too cases of Odisha had non-significantly higher mean triglyceride levels compared to patients of UP. There was a significant difference in family type in-between the 2 regions (p=0.000), with Odisha having more number of nuclear families compared to UP. Cases from Odisha had non-significantly higher per capita monthly income (41.891 ± 43.23 INR) compared to UP (34.276 ± 27.66 INR). Statistically significant dietary preferences, were noticed in-between the 2 states with majority from Odisha favoring non-vegetarian diets (90.6%) compared to Uttar Pradesh (75.06%). Conclusions. Patients from Odisha had higher per capita monthly income, history of higher non-vegetarian diet consumption, higher hypertriglyceridemia and lesser transaminases compared to cases from Uttar Pradesh.

Decoding the genetic influence of CT60 non-coding polymorphism in CTLA-4 gene and sCTLA-4 biomarker with rheumatoid arthritis in the Indian population.

Cytoplasmic T Lymphocyte Antigen - 4 (CTLA-4) gene encodes an immunoregulatory receptor expressed on surface of activated T-cells to mediate peripheral tolerance against self-antigen. It suppresses auto-reactive T-cell proliferation either by inactivation or apoptosis of T-cells. The CTLA-4 mRNA undergoes alternative splicing to synthesize a native soluble form of CTLA-4 (sCTLA-4) protein, which lacks exon 3 that encodes for transmembrane region. As a result, sCTLA-4 circulates as a soluble serum protein and acts as an immunoregulator molecule to maintain homeostasis in the blood. Techniques coupled with quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR) and High-Resolution Melting Analysis (HRMA) were used to screen CTLA-4 3'Untranslated Region (UTR) CT60 (A/G) rs3087243 Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) and their association with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) in the Indian population. In addition, we also evaluated the concentration of sCTLA-4 serum protein in RA patients carrying rs3087243 SNP with different genotypes (A/A, G/A, and G/G). Statistical analysis of Odds Ratio (OR), Confidence Interval (C.I), and Relative Risk (RR) have shown that frequency of CTLA-4 rs3087243 SNP G/G genotype was significantly associated with RA in the Indian population (OR 1.7140; CI = 1.0765 to 2.7290; RR = 1.5434; p = 0.0232). The sCTLA-4 concentration was also significantly lower in RA patients carrying rs3087243 SNP G/G genotype than control group (p < 0.001). Co-inheritance of CTLA-4 signal peptide and 3'UTR SNPs may activate RAPP pathway. Downregulation of CTLA-4 and sCTLA-4 serum protein by rs3087243 SNP can increase the hyperactivation of T-cells, which causes RA.

Morphometric evaluation of suprascapular notch and superior angle of the scapula using three-dimensional computed tomography in the Indian population

BackgroundAmong the various aspects of scapular anatomy, the suprascapular notch has gained attention as its anatomical variation is a predisposing factor for compression of the suprascapular nerve in this region, potentially impacting orthopedic surgery. This study aims to investigate the morphology of suprascapular notch (SSN) and its variation with age and sexual dimorphism. It also seeks to classify and correlate the superior angle of the scapula with the SSN in the Indian population. MethodsA retrospective analysis of 360 computed tomography scans of scapulae of 180 adults was conducted. The morphology of SSN was classified according to Rengachary's classification (types I-VI), and the maximum depth (MD) and maximum width (MW) of SSN were measured. The superior angle of the scapula was classified based on morphological characteristics. ResultsType I SSN was the most prevalent, suggesting lower susceptibility to suprascapular nerve entrapment. Males had significantly greater MD than females. Identical types of SSN and superior angles on both sides of the scapula were statistically significant, though variations on each side were also observed. There was no significant difference in age. The superior angle of the scapula was classified into four types: Hilly, mountain peak, crescent, and chimney, with the hilly type being the most common. No correlation was found between SSN and the superior angle. ConclusionThese findings may provide a comprehensive understanding necessary for accurate diagnoses of related abnormalities and for performing safe and effective endoscopic and open surgical procedures in the suprascapular region.

Psychometric properties of the Death Reflection Scale - Indian version

Contemplation of mortality often helps people to become more mindful of their living, cherishing relationships, experiences and opportunities. Therefore, the present study aims to evaluate the validity of the Death Reflection Scale within the Indians. A non-clinical sample of 381 participants age ranges from 19 to 90 years participated in this study. The Death Reflection Scale is a widely recognized tool to gauge positive aspects on reflecting about mortality. The scale's validity and reliability throughout the German population was demonstrated to be appropriate and relevant. Given the shared cultural similarities among diverse Eastern ethnicities, this validation offers the potential for application across various countries. However, it is crucial to research its validity and reliability using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) in the Indian population. The validity of the scale was confirmed using Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA), yielding a CFI of 0.951. The Goodness Fit Index of 0.929 and RMSEA of 0.07 indicating a reasonably good fit. The scale's discriminant, convergent, and factorial validity were all proven by the results, which also showed its reliability (α =0.92). These results imply that the Death Reflection Scale's Indian validation satisfies the fundamental requirements for psychological evaluations, proving its appropriateness for use in scholarly research.•Quantitative method used in validating the questionnaire.•Cultural validation has been done to ensure cultural relevance and appropriateness.•Reliability and consistency have been established.

Arm Length and Height Relationship in Young Indian Adults: A Correlation and Regression Analysis

Abstract Introduction: Anthropometric studies on body proportions such as arm length (AL) and height (Ht) are essential for understanding physical growth patterns and health indicators, particularly amongst young adults. However, limited research exists on this relationship in the Indian population. Materials and Methods: This study examined the correlation and regression between AL and Ht in 500 healthy Indian adults aged 18–23 years. Standard anthropometric tools were used to measure AL and Ht, and statistical analyses were conducted to determine the relationship between these variables. Results: The results showed varying degrees of correlation between AL and Ht across different age groups and genders. Males generally exhibited higher AL to Ht ratios compared to females, with significant gender differences observed in younger age groups. Conclusion: These findings contribute to our understanding of human growth patterns amongst young Indian adults and have important implications for clinical assessments and anthropological research. Further, longitudinal studies are recommended to better understand the dynamics of growth and body proportions over time in this population.

Exploring public opinions on Rohingya refugees residing in India: An empirical study

The Rohingya population is widely acknowledged as one of the most persecuted minority groups worldwide. The ongoing tripartite conflict involving the Rohingya, the Rakhine, and the Myanmar military has resulted in numerous clashes and massacres, leading to forced displacement. Countries such as Bangladesh, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Pakistan, and India have recorded an influx of Rohingya immigrants. While extensive studies have been conducted on the Rohingya in Myanmar and Bangladesh, there has been a limited scholarly focus on the Rohingya in India. This article aims to fill this gap in the literature. It is important to note that India is neither a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention nor the 1967 Protocol, which addresses refugee status and protections, nor does it have a domestic refugee law. Consequently, refugees in India are not officially recognized as a distinct group and lack legal protection against exploitation and abuse. This situation leaves them vulnerable to various forms of mistreatment, including exploitation, violence, and limited access to employment, education, and healthcare. Although the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees designates the Rohingya as refugees, the current Bharatiya Janata Party government views this stateless community as illegal migrants and a perceived threat to India. This stance raises important questions: (i) How does the Indian population perceive and internalize this interpretation? (ii) What are their attitudes toward the Rohingya, and what policy options do they prefer? To address these inquiries, the authors of this article analyzed data from the Sinophone Borderlands Indo-Pacific Survey, a large-scale online survey organized by one of the authors. In addition, interviews were conducted with Rohingya individuals residing in India to gather firsthand perspectives.

Mastalgia and Why It Should Be Evaluated With Imaging in Areas Where Use of Breast Cancer Screening Services are Unsatisfactory.

Mastalgia or breast pain is a very common symptom in women attending breast clinic. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether imaging for mastalgia leads to cancer detection in an area where routine breast cancer screening services are underutilized. This prospective study was performed between 1st March 2021 to 31st January 2023 at a tertiary care academic institution of central India. All patients underwent through clinical examination by a surgeon. Then patients were referred for ultrasound and/or X-ray mammography (MMG) depending on age. Cancer detection rate was calculated. The final cohort consisted of 176 patients with mastalgia and without any abnormality on clinical breast examination. Sixteen patients had mass lesion on radiology and core needle biopsy resulted as infiltrating duct carcinoma in 7 patients and benign phylloides tumor in one patient. Overall case detection rate for cancer was 4%. The breast cancer detection rate in patients presenting with mastalgia was low. However, in the absence of routine mammographic screening in the Indian general population, these would have been missed. Hence, diagnostic assessment for mastalgia is an appropriate strategy in countries where routine screening MMG is lacking.

Ulnar longitudinal deficiency - a unique case series from the Indian subcontinent.

Ulnar Longitudinal Deficiency (ULD) is a sporadic congenital difference affecting the upper-limb. There is a lack of information on this condition in the Indian subcontinent population, hence the importance of documenting ULD in this region and highlighting the novelty. This retrospective case-series aimed to describe the manifestations of ULD and document its unique presentation pattern in the South Asian population. We made a comprehensive assessment of medical records for all the patients from 2008 to 2023. We assessed and documented the demographic details, clinical features, and radiographic images of the upper-limb and associated investigations for other clinical presentations. Patients were grouped based on standard elbow, forearm, and hand classifications. We documented a total of 68 hands in 55 patients. We observed consanguinity among parents in eight (15%) patients with family-history of other deformities in five patients (9%). Most of our patients presented during the second to fifth year of age (35%). Fourteen (25%) of them presented after ten years. The most common pattern of the presentation was Aplasia of the Ulna, either partial or complete (17 each - 50% of limbs), fixed elbow deformity (28 limbs - 41.1%), absent first web-space affecting 27 (39.7%) limbs, and absent ulnar two fingers with 20 (29.4%) limbs. We observed radial-side deficiency of the hand in 46 (67.6%) patients. 62.3% (43/69) of the surgeries were done for hand deformity. Key features observed were the presence of consanguinity among parents, late presentation after the first decade, majority having radial-side hand defects and half presenting with elbow stiffness and ulnar aplasia.

Ultrasonographic And Histological Evaluation Along withCorrelation of Placental Thickness with Gestational age AndWeight of The Foetus in North Indian Population

Ultrasonographic And Histological Evaluation Along withCorrelation of Placental Thickness with Gestational age AndWeight of The Foetus in North Indian Population

A Survey-Based Analysis of the Usage Experience of Aluminium Metal Vessels in Our Lives for Risk Assessment among Kadapa City, Andhra Pradesh, India

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the purpose, usage, and side effects of the aluminium vessels used by participants. Methods: It is a survey-based study designed to check the extent of aluminium involvement in their lives and perception of awareness. The 12-item questionnaire was administered to the participants who were English-literate and Telugu (local) language. In total, 500 participants indicated that they had used aluminium metal vessels. Section 1 with demographic information, and Section 2 with twelve questions with multiple correct answers. Results: The findings of this study indicate that knowledge, purpose, usage, and side effects of aluminium metal vessels. However, the current consensus among the respondents is that current aluminium toxicity-focused knowledge is inadequate for such an application. Conclusion: The current study was designed to explore the frequency of aluminium usage in various forms in the Indian population of Kadapa city of Andhra Pradesh and investigate any preferential difference in aluminium usage with education and occupation. The major findings are that the majority of respondents used aluminium vessels for different purposes, and fewer were aware of safety concerns. Using aluminium vessels causes different health problems. However, this study recommended alternatives to aluminium vessels, such as brass, stainless, and copper, etc.

Genetic association of regulatory single nucleotide variants in GSTA1 and SULT1A1 with cigarette smoke-related lung cancer in an eastern Indian population

The differential expression of genes involved in xenobiotic metabolism and DNA repair has been implicated in the etiology of cigarette smoke-related lung cancer. Our research group has previously identified 22 gene expression-correlated DNAse hypersensitive sequence-single nucleotide variants (SNVs) with regulatory potential to modulate the transcription of seven xenobiotic metabolisms and seven DNA repair genes, thereby contributing to individual susceptibility to lung cancer. In this study, we evaluated the genetic association between lung cancer and two regulatory SNVs (rSNVs) from the list of 22, namely, rs2207950 (A/G) and rs743590 (G/A), which modulate the expression of the xenobiotic metabolism genes GSTA1 and SULT1A1, respectively. A polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism-based association study was conducted among lung cancer patients exposed to cigarette smoke and healthy smoker controls from an eastern Indian population. A risk genotype AA of GSTA1 rs2207950, with predictive potential, was significantly over-represented among the patients. This genotype is known to cause lower expression of GSTA1 compared to the other two genotypes, potentially leading to reduced efficiency in clearing cigarette smoke-associated xenobiotics, thereby contributing to lung cancer development. Identifying such rSNVs in specific populations can contribute to the development of tailored therapies based on precision medicine, as well as inform efficient legislation governing tobacco use and genetic counseling.

Decoding Urinary Stones: Compositional Insights and Recurrence Patterns from a Tertiary Care Hospital in Eastern India.

Background and objective Urinary stones are a prevalent medical condition entailing significant health burdens and substantial financial ramifications. Its global prevalence is expected to rise notably, particularly in low-middle-income nations. Understanding the spectrum of diverse urinary stone types is crucial for effective management and prevention. This study aims to elucidate the demographic profiles, clinical types, and recurrence of urinary stone cases at a tertiary care hospital in Eastern India. Methods and materials The clinical data from the electronic medical record of 1,231 patients with urolithiasis who underwent surgery in a tertiary care center in eastern India from January 2015 to November 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. Patient data, including demographic information, clinical records, dietary habits, water intake, and stone recurrence history, were collected. A thorough statistical analysis was conducted to elucidate the associations between patient characteristics, urinary stone composition, and recurrence. Results Among the 1,231 participants, the majority of cases (343 (27.9%)) were in the 31-40 age group, with a higher prevalence in males (876 (71.2%)) than in females (355 (28.8%)). Flank pain or abdominal pain (593 (48.1%)) was the primary complaint, followed by nausea/vomiting (227 (18.5%)). Most stones (922 (74.9%)) were located in the kidney, and calcium oxalate was the predominant stone component (773 (62.8%)). The highest stone recurrence rates were in patients aged between 21-30 years (21 (36.8%)) and 31-40 years (16 (28.0%)). A low non-vegetarian diet and adequate hydration may reduce the likelihood of stone recurrences. Conclusion This study provides insights into the compositional analysis of urinary stones in the eastern Indian population, addressing the causes of their recurrence and management strategies, which are crucial for prevention and effective management. The findings indicate that the early middle-aged group exhibited the highest incidence of urinary stones. We also observed that strict adherence to a low animal protein, along with proper hydration and lifestyle changes, significantly reduced urinary stone recurrence.

Corticosteroids and invasive fungal infections in hospitalized COVID-19 patients – A single-center cross-sectional study

Background: During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) epidemic, an increase in the incidence of fungal infections was observed. However, the real magnitude of these fungal infections and their risk factors among COVID-19 patients in the Indian population is unknown. Aim: To study the frequency, and spectrum of invasive fungal infections (IFI) among hospitalized COVID-19 patients, and the risk factors associated with invasive fungal infections. Methods: We performed a retrospective, cross-sectional study; including all adult patients, admitted to Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER), a tertiary care hospital in Southern India between April 2020 and August 2021, with COVID-19. Based on clinical-radiological features, patients with fungal infections were grouped into three diagnostic categories. Demographics, clinical, and laboratory features of patients with fungal infections were analyzed to identify the risk factors. Results: About 10% (449 out of 4650) of the admitted patients with recent COVID-19, had some form of IFI. Among the patients with IFI, 80% (366 out of 449) were hospitalized for active COVID-19, whereas almost all the patients admitted with post-COVID complications had IFI. Of the 449 patients with IFI, 377 had mold infections and 88 had invasive candidiasis. Mucormycosis was the most common mold infection. Diabetes and diabetic ketoacidosis were strong independent predictors of IFI. We also found an association between end-stage renal disease, central venous catheterization, antibiotic usage, prior stroke, and corticosteroid therapy with IFI. Conclusions: The frequency of fungal infections among hospitalized COVID-19 patients was high. Special precautions in COVID-19 patients with diabetes mellitus, corticosteroid therapy, and prior antibiotic usage may help to reduce invasive fungal infections.

Pertinence of Five Different Regression Equations of Mixed Dentition Analysis in West Godavari District Children: A Comparative Study.

The orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning are the fundamental goals during the mixed dentition period. Numerous methods have been proposed to date. The study was designed to determine the mesiodistal (MD) widths of the lower permanent canines and premolars from Tanaka and Johnston, regression equation (RE) proposed for north Indian population (RE-NIP), Bernabé and Flores-Mir C, Moyers', and Ling and Wong mixed dentition analysis (MDA) and to determine the correlation coefficients for the Eluru population. The study population was selected using cluster random sampling. A total of 3,572 children were clinically examined from the Outpatient Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, St Joseph Dental College and Hospital, Eluru district, Andhra Pradesh. Out of these, 140 children aged 11-16 years were randomly selected for the study based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The MD width of permanent incisors, canines, premolars, and molars was measured with the help of a digital vernier caliper; summed up and compared with the above-mentioned REs. The data obtained were subjected to statistical analysis using SPSS version 22, employing Student's t-test, Pearson correlation coefficient, and Kruskal-Wallis test. The RE-NIP underestimated the values, whereas the remaining equations overestimated the sum of permanent canines and premolars in both arches in the study population. The predicted values obtained from the abovementioned methods overestimated the actual values, and a new RE for the Eluru population should be suggested to better represent the size of unerupted canines and premolars. Measuring the MD widths of the upper and lower permanent incisors and molars during the mixed dentition period from different REs will help a pedodontist in proper treatment planning to predict the MD width of unerupted canines and premolars. Kanaparthi S, Done V, P Madu GS, et al. Pertinence of Five Different Regression Equations of Mixed Dentition Analysis in West Godavari District Children: A Comparative Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2024;17(8):871-876.

A Comparative Evaluation of Point-of-Care and Laboratory HbA1c Testing in Diabetes Care: An Indian Perspective.

This study aimed to assess the diagnostic performance of a point-of-care (POC) glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) device in the Indian population against the standard laboratory (high-performance liquid chromatography {HPLC}) method for the effective management of diabetes in India. This study on the diagnostic accuracy of a POC HbA1c device involved 121 participants. These participants were categorized into two groups according to their HbA1c levels - one group with HbA1c values below 6.5% and another group with HbA1c values equal to or greater than 6.5%. The HbA1c levels in enrolled participants were estimated using both the POC device (HemoCueHbA1c 501; Ängelholm, Sweden: HemoCue AB) and the standard HPLC-based method. The level of agreement and concordance between the two test results were assessed by the Bland-Altman plot and Lin's concordance correlation coefficient. Sensitivity, specificity, diagnostic accuracy, positive likelihood, and negative likelihood ratios of POC-HbA1c device were assessed with a 6.5% HbA1c cut-off. The mean HbA1c values obtained by the two methods showed no statistically significant difference with a minimum effect size (Cohen's d = 0.035), indicating there was a negligible difference between these methods. The Bland-Altman plot revealed that most values were within acceptable limits (95% CI: -0.5 to 0.7) and Lin's concordance correlation coefficient showed strong agreement (p < 0.0001).The POC-HbA1c device demonstrated an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.991 (95% CI: 0.953-1.000) with sensitivity, specificity, diagnostic accuracy, positive likelihood, and negative likelihood ratios of 93.62%, 97.30%, 95.87%, 34.64 and 0.07, respectively, compared to the standard diagnostic assay. The diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity demonstrated by the POC-HbA1c device to the standard HPLC method offers a viable and practical solution for diabetes management in India. Its ability to provide rapid and reliable results at the point of care can improve patient outcomes, reduce healthcare costs, and enhance access to diabetes care, especially in primary care, remote areas, and resource-limited settings of developing countries like India.

Common dental myths in South Indian population - a qualitative study

ABSTRACT The prevalence of dental misconceptions is significant in modern day. This can be attributed to the contrasting cultural, social and educational exposure of the public. Previous research on dental myths has primarily employed cross-sectional and closed-ended questionnaire methods. However, this study was planned as a qualitative research utilizing open-ended interviews enabling the participants to a greater degree of expression of their opinions and to explore the broader scope of dental myths in practice. Twenty-five participants above the age of 18 years were probed through one-to-one unstructured interviews. The interviews were audiotaped with consent and the transcribed texts were analyzed to identify categories and themes. Manifestations of common dental myths were grouped into five themes namely caries, tooth brushing, extraction, aesthetic care, and primary teeth. This study validated the wide prevalence of dental misconceptions among the public and calls for a combined effort from both patients and dentists to debunk baseless myths and facilitate good oral health care.

Population genetics of Babesia vogeli based on the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene

The current study aimed at population genetic characterization of B. vogeli based on the cytochrome b (cyt b) gene sequences (≥ 685 bp) available in the GenBank. Phylogenetic trees placed all the sequences of B. vogeli in a single large monophyletic clade; however, it was further divided into two subclades (Bv1 and Bv2). Out of seven nucleotide variations observed between Bv1 and Bv2 subclades, four were synonymous (G92A, C170T, T488C and A659G), and three were non-synonymous (G324A, C438A and G465A) resulting in amino acid substitutions at three places (V108I, L146I and V155I). Within different B. vogeli populations, the nucleotide and haplotype diversities were low. The median-joining haplotype network revealed only two haplotypes (Hap_1 and Hap_2). A geographical sub-structuring was noticed in the B. vogeli populations, with moderate genetic differentiation (FST = 0.05000; P < 0.05) and a very high gene flow (Nm = 4.75) between Indian and Chinese populations. Neutrality tests and mismatch distributions for the Indian population and the overall dataset of B. vogeli indicated a constant population size. This study provides the first insight into the genetic characterization, population genetics and haplotype network of B. vogeli based on the cyt b gene.