Background: Hemoglobinopathies are among the most common inherited monogenic disorders worldwide, with significant prevalence in India, particularly in tribal and rural populations. Gujarat reports a high burden of both β-thalassemia and sickle cell disorders. Aim: To evaluate the spectrum and clinico-hematological profile of hemoglobinopathies in a tertiary care hospital. Methods: A retrospective and prospective descriptive study was conducted over four years (Jan 2021 to Dec 2024) at a tertiary hospital in Gujarat. A total of 100 confirmed cases of hemoglobinopathies were analyzed. Complete blood count and peripheral smear were performed in a NABL accredited laboratory, and data were analyzed. Results: The most common hemoglobinopathy was β-thalassemia trait (44), followed by sickle cell disorders (27) and sickle cell trait (24). Rare variants included HbES (1) and HbD-Punjab trait (1 ). Two cases of homozygous β-thalassemia were identified in children under 10 years. Clinical features included pallor, fever, and jaundice, particularly in sickle disorders and thalassemia major. Most cases belonged to OBC, SC, and ST communities. Conclusion: Hemoglobinopathies remain a significant public health challenge in Gujarat, with β-thalassemia trait being the most prevalent. Hemoglobin electrophoresis is a cost-effective screening tool that should be integrated into antenatal, premarital, and adolescent health programs. Genetic counselling and molecular follow-up are essential for long-term disease reduction.
Carbonate apatite (CO₃Ap) has evolved as a promising alloplastic bone graft material in periodontal and implant therapies due to its superior biological properties. Unlike hydroxyapatite (HA) and β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP), CO₃Ap mimics the mineral composition of natural bone, with carbonate substitution improving its resorption by osteoclasts and promoting bone turnover. Fabricated via a dissolutionprecipitation reaction using calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) precursors, CO₃Ap maintains structural integrity while avoiding thermal decomposition that occurs with other manufacturing processes. The low crystallinity, high specific surface area, and dense microstructure contribute to the enhanced osteoblast differentiation and bone matrix formation. Histological studies have demonstrated CO₃Aps superior bone regeneration capacity compared to HA and β-TCP, with faster healing and greater bone volume observed in animal models. Its honeycomb architecture further supports osteoconductivity by facilitating cellular activity and nutrient flow. CO₃Aps versatility extends to applications in ridge augmentation, sinus lifts, and guided tissue regeneration. Coating titanium implants with CO₃Ap improves osseointegration and mechanical stability, while its mesoporous microspheres offer potential as drug carriers for antibiotics and bioactive molecules. Despite its advantages, CO₃Ap faces limitations such as brittleness and high solubility. Future research aims to optimize its physicochemical properties and develop cost-effective fabrication methods. Composite materials incorporating CO₃Ap with polymers, collagen, or platelet concentrates may further enhance its clinical utility. Overall, CO₃Ap represents a significant advancement in bone grafting materials, with potential for widespread application in regenerative dentistry and tissue engineering.
Introduction Aim: Systemic inflammation is implicated in Parkinson's disease (PD) pathogenesis, but evidence regarding peripheral cytokine levels remains inconsistent. This meta-analysis aimed to summarize the available data on peripheral blood cytokine concentrations in PD patients compared to healthy controls (HCs), and investigate key moderator variables that may affect cytokine concentrations. Materials Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted across multiple electronic databases from August 06 to August 26, 2025. Eligible studies reporting peripheral blood cytokine levels in PD patients and a matched HC group, were included. Data from 100 studies, comprising 7,369 PD patients and 10,978 HCs, were extracted, and the meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model, with effect sizes expressed as standardized mean differences (Hedges' g). Results: Concentrations of interleukin-6, tumour necrosis factor, interleukin-1 beta, and C-reactive protein were elevated in PD patients relative to HCs. In contrast, no significant differences were observed for interleukin-2, interleukin-4, interleukin-8, and interleukin-10. Subgroup analyses revealed that the analytical methodology, sample source (serum, plasma, or cerebrospinal fluid), and geographic origin of the study population significantly influenced effect sizes, whereas patient age, motor severity (UPDRS-III), and disease stage (Hoehn Yahr) did not demonstrate a significant moderating effect. Conclusion: This meta-analysis confirms a distinct peripheral inflammatory profile in PD, characterized by elevated levels of specific pro-inflammatory cytokines. The findings underscore the potential role of systemic inflammation in PD pathophysiology and highlight methodological and demographic variables as key sources of heterogeneity in the literature, which must be considered in future biomarker studies.
Background: The International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP) defines pain as an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience associated with actual or potential tissue damage or described in terms of such damage. The primary goal of analgesia is to eliminate the cause of pain but this is not always possible so analgesics are used to treat pain symptomatically. This study aims to scientifically validate the anti-nociceptive activity of stem of Rubia cordifolia using rodent models. Materials and methods: Ethanolic extract of Rubia cordifolia (EERC) stem was used for evaluating the anti-nociceptive activity in Wistar albino rats. Ethanolic extract of Rubia cordifolia stem was used at a dose of 100 and 200 mgkg. Distilled water 10 mlkg was used as vehicle control. Anti-nociceptive activity was evaluated by performing hot water tail immersion test and Eddys hot plate method comparing with Diclofenac (10mgkg) as the standard drug. The data was analyzed using one way ANOVA (analysis of variance) followed by Tukey Krammer test. P value Results: Ethanolic extract of Rubia cordifolia stem at a dose of 200mgkg showed a significant analgesic efficacy in hot water tail immersion test and Eddys hot plate method. Additionally, the results were closely comparable to the standard drug diclofenac. Conclusion: Ethanolic extract of Rubia cordifolia stem shows promising anti-nociceptive activity in Wistar albino rats, suggesting that it could be a valuable natural alternative for pain relief but further studies are necessary to confirm its safety and effectiveness in broader clinical settings.
Recent advancements in nanotechnology have revolutionized biomedical research, offering innovative solutions for disease management. The synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using phyto-extracts has gotten significant attention due to its environmentally benign and economical approach. Momordica cymbalaria, a well-known therapeutic properties containing plant, was utilized for the biosynthesis of AgNPs. Extensive phytochemical analyses, including qualitative and quantitative assessments, were conducted to determine the presence of bioactive constituents facilitating nanoparticle synthesis. A range of micro spectroscopic methods were utilized to characterize the MCAgNPs. Furthermore, their potential anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties were evaluated through in vitro assays. The results suggest that Momordica cymbalaria mediated AgNPs exhibit promising biological activity, making them potential candidates for therapeutic applications in inflammation-related diseases.
Introduction and Aim: Diabetes mellitus requires lifelong pharmacotherapy, yet drug utilization studies rarely capture how patients experience and manage prescribed medicines in daily life. This study aimed to examine drug utilization practices in outpatient diabetes care by integrating drug utilization data with patient perspectives. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted in a tertiary care teaching hospital in India using a sequential explanatory mixed-methods design, which consisted of a quantitative drug utilization study in the first phase followed by qualitative in-depth interviews in the second phase. Drug utilization data from 100 adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus were analyzed descriptively. Inferential associations were examined using chi-square tests. Findings informed purposive sampling for in-depth interviews with 25 patients to explain and expand quantitative findings. Qualitative data were analyzed thematically, and integration occurred at interpretation. Institutional ethics committee approval was obtained, and informed consent was secured from all participants. Results and Conclusion: Oral hypoglycemic agents (OHAs) alone were prescribed to 68 (n68) of patients, while 32 (n32) received OHAs with insulin. Polypharmacy (3 agents) was observed in 46 (n46). Insulin use was significantly associated with longer duration of diabetes (p0.002). Interviews revealed structured routines related to long-term medicine use, organizational strategies for multiple medications, layered self-care practices. Drug utilization in diabetes care reflects both prescribing patterns and patient adaptation. Integrating patient perspectives with drug utilization data provides a more comprehensive understanding of real-world medicine use.
Vitamin D which is mainly designated as hormone, play numerous significant roles in our human body. They not only fall under bone health but other body systems which strongly get affected due to vitamin D deficiency. Especially In todays society due to faulty life style and improper food habit vitamin deficiencies are seen to manifest various chronic health disorders which are interplayed by their association with other endocrine factors specially hormones. The current review work shows the less elaborated relationship between Vitamin D and cortisol a highly relevant adrenal corticosteroid involved in stress response. This review work highlights the positive and negative correlation between these 2 hormones which may influence both mental and physical health of individual. Many studies have indicated that there may be an imperceptible possibility that these two bio molecules may possess some sort of inter-dependent association. Significant information obtained from this review focuses on generating awareness regarding the impact of vitamin D and Cortisol on combating serious health issues from their early inception
Background: Breast carcinoma remains a serious global health concern, with over 2.3 million women diagnosed annually and significant mortality rates persisting despite improvements in screening and treatment protocols. Aim: This is an observational, case control, hospital-based study which was carried out to find the role of inflammatory markers in patients with breast carcinoma and their correlation with tumour markers. Metrials Methods: The study population consists of (3) three distinct study groups, Group A: patients diagnosed with breast carcinoma (n70), Group B: healthy controls (n70) and Group C: patients with benign breast disease (n70). Patients suffering from any tumor of breast identified for the first time were included in this study population. Recurrent cases were excluded from the study. Serum level of CRP and IL-6 were measured as inflammatory marker whereas CEA and CA 15 - 3 were measured as tumour markers in this study population. Results: There was significant elevation of inflammatory markers in patients with breast carcinoma when compared to healthy control. The inflammatory markers were found to be positively correlated with patients with breast carcinoma but this correlation was not significant. Conclution: Early detection of elevated inflammatory markers could serve as a predictive tool for breast cancer prognosis. Integrating CRP and IL-6 screening in routine diagnostics may help identify high-risk patients earlier.
Background: Cardiac autonomic neuropathy (CAN) is a clinically significant yet frequently underrecognized complication of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Heart rate variability (HRV) analysis provides a non-invasive method for evaluating cardiac autonomic function. This study aimed to assess time-domain HRV parameters in asymptomatic patients with T2DM compared to healthy controls. Methods: In this hospital-based case-control study, 50 patients with T2DM and 50 age-matched healthy controls (4060 years) were enrolled following institutional ethics approval. Short-term (5-minute) ECG recordings were obtained under standardized conditions. Time-domain HRV indices - mean RR interval, heart rate, SDNN, RMSSD, pNN50, RRΔ index, and TINN were analyzed. Group comparisons were performed using independent samples t-test. Effect sizes (Cohens d) and 95 confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated, and Bonferroni correction was applied for multiple comparisons. Results: Compared with controls, patients with T2DM exhibited significantly reduced SDNN (mean difference 6.60 ms; 95 CI: 10.4 to 2.8), RMSSD (10.39 ms; 95 CI: 15.6 to 5.1), pNN50 (4.69; 95 CI: 5.6 to 3.7), and TINN (155.1 ms; 95 CI: 210.4 to 99.8) (adjusted p Conclusion: Time-domain HRV parameters were significantly reduced in asymptomatic individuals with T2DM, suggesting early subclinical cardiac autonomic dysfunction. Short-term HRV assessment may serve as a practical screening tool for early detection of CAN.
Introduction and Aim: Wearable biosensors represent a new era in digital health and biotechnology, offering non-invasive, continuous, and real-time monitoring of physiological and biochemical parameters. This review discusses their classification, applications, technological development, and future potential in disease prediction and personalized medicine. Materials and Methods: Relevant literature on past, present, and emerging wearable biosensors was analyzed, covering sensor types, operational principles, connectivity (wired and wireless), and integration with advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, and next-generation wireless communication. Sources were selected based on their relevance to real-time health monitoring and disease prediction. Results: Wearable biosensors are broadly divided into biophysiological sensors, which measure parameters such as heart rate, temperature, and motion, and biochemical sensors, which detect bioanalytes in biological fluids like sweat, saliva, and interstitial fluid. Major applications include blood glucose monitoring, cardiovascular assessment, pulmonary function tracking, and evaluation of mental health and sleep patterns. The combination of AI, cloud systems, and wireless networks enhances diagnostic precision and predictive accuracy. Market reports project the wearable biosensor industry to surpass USD 60 billion by 2030, with an annual growth rate exceeding 12, indicating expanding research and adoption. Conclusion: Wearable biosensors are transforming healthcare by enabling proactive, personalized, and remote medical management. Despite challenges in biocompatibility, stability, data security, and regulation, advances in flexible materials, energy-efficient designs, and AI-based systems continue to drive their evolution and clinical integration.
Background: Diabetes constitutes a worldwide epidemic, with type 2 diabetes representing the predominant form and elevating the risk of various cardiovascular complications. Furthermore, patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) exhibit dysregulated glucose and lipid metabolism in their skeletal muscles. Aim and Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate blood levels of Creatine Kinase (CK) and Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) in patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) to healthy controls, to assess their potential as indicators of metabolic stress and glycaemic control. Materials and Methods: Case-control research was conducted involving 200 participants: 100 individuals with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) and 100 healthy controls. The levels of CK, LDH, and glycemic markers (HbA1c and Fasting plasma glucose) were assessed. Results: CK and LDH values were substantially higher in T2DM patients than in controls (p
Introduction: Hypertension is a major medical and public health issue. As the age group increases, so does the incidence and prevalence of hypertension. Therefore, to rationalize medical care and make it more cost-effective, medical practitioners can monitor, assess, and recommend suitable improvements to their prescribing patterns. Several guidelines have been developed worldwide for the management of chronic diseases. However, many clinicians practice their prescribing pattern in treating the patients according to their clinical experience. Aim: The present study was conducted to evaluate the prescribing pattern for hypertension in the Department of General Medicine. Materials and Methods: The data was collected from the medical records of hypertensive patients who had come to the General Medicine OPD. There was a total of 318 medical records from 1st September 2023 to 30th November 2023. The following parameters were collected and analyzed- Demographic details, associated co-morbidities, antihypertensive drug classes prescribed, common antihypertensive drugs prescribed under each class, number of fixed-dose combinations, prescriptions with generic names brand names, and total number of drugs per prescription. Results and Conclusion: From this study it can be concluded that, angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) are the commonly prescribed antihypertensive drug class. Among the ARBs, Telmisartan and Losartan are commonly prescribed. Fixed dose combination of Amlodipine and Atenolol is commonly prescribed. Compared to brand names, the majority of the prescriptions had generic names. Knowledge about rational prescribing of the drugs is extremely important among clinicians to prevent any untoward effect due to a drug.
Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder requiring long-term treatment with biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs). However, high costs and price variations among different brands pose significant barriers to treatment adherence in India. Objective: To analyse cost variations among different brands of bDMARDs available in the Indian market. Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted using data from the Monthly Index of Medical Specialties (MIMS). The maximum retail prices (MRP) of various bDMARDs (e.g., etanercept, infliximab, adalimumab) were collected. Cost ratio and percentage variation were calculated using descriptive statistics as per mahajan's method in biostatistics. Results: The highest cost variation was observed in etanercept 25 mg (402), with a cost ratio of 5.03, while infliximab 100 mg showed the least variation (28, ratio: 1.5). Conclusion: Significant price disparities exist among bDMARD brands in India, affecting affordability. Policy interventions such as price regulation, promotion of biosimilars, and differential pricing strategies are needed to improve access
Mucormycosis is a rare but rapidly progressive fungal infection predominantly affecting immunocompromised individuals. Subcutaneous mucormycosis in an immunocompetent host is extremely uncommon and diagnostically challenging. This case presents previously healthy patient with a rapidly progressing cellulitis over the anterior region of right thigh, debridement revealed necrotic tissue suspicious of fungal infection, consecutive KOH microscopy confirmed Mucormycosis. Patient was managed successfully with serial surgical debridement and systemic antifungal therapy with Isavuconazole, and ultimately split-thickness skin grafting. This case emphasizes the importance of considering Mucormycosis even in immunocompetent individuals with aggressive soft tissue infections, and highlights the role of early surgical intervention with repeated debridement and antifungal therapy.
Introduction and Aim: The study examined the relationship between physical activity levels (PAL) and various physiological health indicators among college students that may serve as predictors or barriers to physical activity, and can inform health promotion strategies within this demographic. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out on college students (n202), measuring various physiological variables. Physical activity (PA) status was assessed using the PAL scores, employing International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) Short. Standardized instruments were used for measuring physicological variables. Analysis was done in SPSS which includes Perason's correlation and scattered plot. Subgroup analysis was done using stacked bar chart. Results: Most physiological parameters, such as height, weight, body surface area, pulse rate, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation, exhibited very weak correlations with PAL scores. Body Mass Index (BMI) showed a notableunique trend. Maximum percentage of overweight were found under low PAL category yet all obese class I and II, were associated with higher PAL scores. The individuals in higher health risk categories demonstrated reduced PAL. Gender-based analyses revealed no significant differences in the relationships. Based on healthy indicators, the recommended PAL score range for college students with healthy indicators is suggested to be 3,000-8,000 MET-minutesweek. Conclusion: The findings indicated minimal linear associations between most physiological health parameters and PAL among college students, with BMI and health risk categories showing some inverse relationships with PAL. These results highlighted the complexity of factors influencing PA in young adults and suggest that physiological metrics may have limited predictive value in this population
Background: Hemodialysis units, vital for end-stage renal disease (ESRD) management, face significant safety challenges due to complex technology and vulnerable patients. This study evaluates safety practices in a hemodialysis unit at a tertiary care teaching hospital in Hyderabad, India. Methods: A cross-sectional study involved 381 hemodialysis patients. Seven safety domains were assessed: infection control, patient identification (via UHID checks), staff-patient communication, medication safety, fall prevention, water quality, and equipmenttubing safety. Data were collected using validated questionnaires and observational checklists, with compliance scored (1 compliant, 2 noncompliant). Compliance rates were analyzed descriptively, with chi-square tests for correlations. Results: Overall compliance was 98.4, with domain-specific rates: infection control (97.6), patient identification (98.1), staff-patient communication (97.9), medication safety (98.7), fall prevention (96.8), water quality (97.4), and equipmenttubing safety (95.3). Non-compliance (1.6) was linked to equipment maintenance delays and staff workload. Elderly patients and those with advanced CKD were more vulnerable. Conclusion: The unit demonstrated robust safety practices, but equipment maintenance and staffing gaps require attention. Recommendations include predictive maintenance, enhanced admission protocols, continuous training, and optimized workforce management.
Introduction and Aim: Hypertension (HTN) is a public health issue frequently linked with obesity. Both are connected with blood vessel remodelling, oxidative stress, and the imbalance of the matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their inhibitor (TIMPs). The present study aims to explore the relationship between the markers of oxidative stress and biomarkers of extracellular matrix remodelling, MMP-9 and TIMP-1, in obese and non-obese patients with and without hypertension. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional hospital-based study was conducted in 106 subjects classified into four groups: obese hypertensive (OHTN), non-obese hypertensive (NOHTN), obese controls (OC), and non-obese controls (NOC). Anthropometric parameters, blood pressure, markers of oxidative stress Malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced Glutathione (GSH), Nitric oxide (NO) and serum levels of MMP-9 and TIMP-1 were measured. ELISA and standardised biochemical assays were employed. MMP-9 and oxidative markers correlations were statistically compared. Results: OHTN patients exhibited significantly elevated levels of MMP-9, TIMP-1, and MDA, but decreased levels of GSH and NO compared with the control group (p
Introduction and Aim: Probiotics are healthy bacteria that support gut health. They are also found in fermented foods and dietary supplements. This study examined the awareness and use of probiotics among adults. Materials and Methods: The survey was conducted using an online questionnaire with 802 respondents on World Digestive Health Day. The questionnaire collected data on probiotic consumption, awareness, and demographics. Complete Responses from 800 people were analyzed using chi-squared tests to compare the associations between sex, age, and regional differences in probiotic awareness and use. Results: Among the 800 respondents (621 women and 179 men), 82 were aware of probiotics. No significant gender differences were observed in the informed group; however, men were significantly more likely to be in the uninformed group. Awareness was most common among those aged
Background: Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS) is among the most common causes of anterior knee discomfort, predominantly seen in young, active individuals. Due to its multifactorial origin, effective treatment must address both biomechanical misalignments and neuromuscular deficits. Emerging research supports the notion that integrating manual therapy techniques with exercise-based rehabilitation yields more favorable outcomes than exercise alone. Objective: The present study was designed to evaluate the therapeutic benefits of incorporating patellar mobilization into a progressive strengthening program for individuals with PFPS. Methods: In this randomized controlled study, twenty individuals diagnosed with PFPS were assigned into two groups. Both groups participated in a six-week intervention with four sessions per week. Pain levels were measured using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), joint mobility was assessed with a universal goniometer, and functional status was evaluated using the Functional Index Questionnaire (FIQ). Statistical comparisons between baseline and post-treatment outcomes were performed using repeated measures ANOVA and independent t-tests. Results: Both groups showed significant improvements post-intervention (p 2 values surpassing 0.9.
Background: Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) and subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH), are common endocrine disorders. Presence of both will have a prominent, augmented complex interaction with obvious interdependence. Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a T2D complication. VPT assessment is a quantitative testing and screening tool for DPN, is easy, accurate assessment. Objectives: To study, assess and compare VPT in normal, T2D with and without SCH. Study Design: A cross-sectional, observational, and comparative study design including 90 subjects; 3 groups of 30 each; Group-A: Healthy subjects, Group-B: Newly detected T2D, Group-C: Newly detected T2D and SCH. Materials and Methods: Basic characteristics, Anthropometry, FBS, PPBS, HbA1c, TSH and VPT tests were conducted and the results were analyzed using ANOVA. Results: FBS, PPBS, HbA1c of Group-B and C were statistically higher. TSH values of Group-C was statistically higher. Average VPT of Group-B and C were statistically higher. Discussion: Groups (B, C) included newly detected T2D. Free T4 levels were comparable. TSH was significantly higher in the Group-C. Higher VPT values indicated DPN in T2D at diagnosis. T2D with SCH has higher VPT values suggesting that SCH aggravates the pathogenetic mechanism causing DPN. Conclusion: Microvascular changes in T2D at diagnosis predisposes DPN and an altered VPT identifies those at risk. Early diagnosis will prevent nerve damage. Life style modification, treatment of T2D and SCH at an earliest disease stage may even reverse DPN
