Filamin A Is a Prognostic Serum Biomarker for Differentiating Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia from Prostate Cancer in Caucasian and African American Men.

Prostate cancer represents a significant health risk to aging men, in which diagnostic challenges to the identification of aggressive cancers remain unmet. Prostate cancer screening is driven by the prostate-specific antigen (PSA); however, in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) due to an enlarged prostate and elevated PSA, PSA's screening utility is diminished, resulting in many unnecessary biopsies. To address this issue, we previously identified a cleaved fragment of Filamin A (FLNA) protein (as measured with IP-MRM mass spectrometry assessment as a prognostic biomarker for stratifying BPH from prostate cancer and subsequently evaluated its expanded utility in Caucasian (CA) and African American (AA) men. All men had a negative digital rectal examination (DRE) and PSA between 4 and 10 ng/mL and underwent prostate biopsy. In AA men, FLNA serum levels exhibited diagnostic utility for stratifying BPH from patients with aggressive prostate cancer (0.71 AUC and 12.2 OR in 48 men with BPH and 60 men with PCa) and outperformed PSA (0.50 AUC, 2.2 OR). In CA men, FLNA serum levels also exhibited diagnostic utility for stratifying BPH from patients with aggressive prostate cancer (0.74 AUC and 19.4 OR in 191 men with BPH and 109 men with PCa) and outperformed PSA (0.46 AUC, 0.32 OR). Herein, we established FLNA alone as a serum biomarker for stratifying men with BPH vs. those with high Gleason (7-10) prostate cancers compared to the current diagnostic paradigm of using PSA. This approach demonstrates clinical actionability of FLNA alone without the requirement of prostate volume measurement as a test with utility in AA and CA men and represents a significant opportunity to decrease the number of unnecessary biopsies in aggressive prostate cancer diagnoses.

Piperine-Loaded In Situ Gel: Formulation, In Vitro Characterization, and Clinical Evaluation against Periodontitis.

Periodontitis is an inflammatory disorder associated with dysbiosis and characterized by microbiologically related, host-mediated inflammation that leads to the damage of periodontal tissues including gingiva, connective tissues, and alveolar bone. The aim of this study was to develop an in situ gel consisting of piperine. Eight in situ gel formulations were designed by varying the concentration of deacylated gellan gum cross-linked with sodium tripolyphosphate, and poloxamer-407. The prepared gels were evaluated for gelation temperature, gelation time, viscosity, piperine-loading efficiency, and piperine release. Finally, the optimized formula was evaluated for anti-inflammatory effectiveness among human patients during a 14-day follow-up. The optimized in situ gel formulation exhibited a gelation temperature of 35 ± 1 °C, gelling of 36 ± 1 s, excellent syringeability, and piperine loading of 95.3 ± 2.3%. This formulation efficiently sustained in vitro drug release for up to 72 h. In vivo studies revealed an efficient sol-to-gel transformation of optimized in situ gel formulation at physiological conditions, permitting an efficient residence time of the formulation within a periodontitis pocket. Most importantly, a clinical study revealed that treatment with the optimized formulation elicited a significant reduction in the mean plaque score (p = 0.001), gingival index (p = 0.003), and pocket depth (p = 0.002), and exerted a potent anti-inflammatory potential, compared to the control group. Collectively, piperine-loaded in situ gel might represent a viable therapeutic approach for the management of gingival and periodontal diseases.

Polymer coated polymeric microneedles for intravitreal delivery of dexamethasone.

The polymer coated polymeric (PCP) microneedles (MNs) is a novel approach for controlled delivery of drugs (without allowing release of the excipients) to the target site. PCP MNs was explored as an approach to deliver the drug intravitreally to minimize the risks associated with conventional intravitreal injections. The core MNs was fabricated with polyvinyl pyrrolidone K30 (PVP K30) and coating was with Eudragit E100. Preformulation studies revealed that the films prepared using Eudragit E 100 exhibited excellent integrity in the physiological medium after prolonged exposure. FTIR studies were performed to investigate the possible interaction between the API and the polymer. The PCP MNs fabricated with different drug loads (dexamethasone sodium phosphate) were subjected to in vitro drug release studies. The drug release from uncoated MNs was instantaneous and complete. On the other hand, a controlled release profile was observed in case of PCP MNs. Likewise, even in the ex vivo porcine eye model, the drug release was gradual into the vitreous humor in case of PCP MNs. The uncoated microneedles released all the drug instantaneously where the PCP MNs retarded the release up to 3 h.

Study of pattern & distribution of adverse drug reactions in acute coronary syndrome patients in a tertiary care hospital.

Background & objectives: With the availability of a wide range of drugs to treat patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS), adverse drug reactions (ADRs) have become inevitable in clinical practice. Thorough knowledge of such reactions is essential for the treating physician for optimal treatment and better outcomes. There are many scales to define, measure and assess the ADRs, but there is a dearth of data available on such drug reactions among ACS patients. Hence, this study attempted to analyze the pattern, causality, severity, predictability and preventability of ADRs in ACS patients. All the ADRs reported during the study period were analyzed for causality by the World Health Organization-Uppsala Monitoring Centre (WHO-UMC), Naranjo's and Karch and Lasagna scales; severity by modified Hartwig and Siegel scale; predictability by Rawlins and Thompson criterion and preventability by Schumock and Thornton scale. Methods: A single-centre, record-based analysis for the occurrence of ADRs was done among ACS patients admitted to the department of Cardiology between January and October 2017. Demographic data, comorbid conditions, reported ADRs and ADR assessment details were noted from the hospital case records and ADR monitoring centre (AMC) records. The data were analyzed and presented in a descriptive manner using percentages, mean and standard deviation. The Pearson's chi-squared test was used to ascertain the significance of the association between different groups. Results: Out of 324 patients under evaluation, 67 had developed one or more ADRs. There were 30 different types of ADRs reported, headache being the most common. Among the drugs, heparin was the most common factor, causing 27 per cent of ADRs. Definite causality of a suspected drug causing ADRs was seen in 11.9 (n=8), nine (n=6) and 7.5 (n=5) per cent cases as per WHO-UMC, Naranjo (Naranjo algorithm) and Karch and Lasagna scales, respectively. In the severity of ADRs, the most severe reactions according to the modified Hartwig-Siegel scale (level 4a in our study) were seen in 17.5 (n=12) per cent of patients, and the rest were either level 2 or 3 reactions. Nearly 92.5 (n=62) per cent of reactions were predictable according to the Rawlins and Thompson criterion. Application of the modified Schumock-Thornton scale showed that 22.4 per cent of ACS patients had preventable reactions, and the rest were not preventable. Interpretation & conclusions: The study results suggest that ADRs are relatively common among ACS patients. Most of these can be identified and assessed for causality, severity, predictability and preventability using various available scales. Diligent pharmacovigilance for identifying and assessing ADRs may help manage and mitigate morbidity associated with these in high-risk ACS patients.

Large right-sided pneumothorax with Takotsubo cardiomyopathy.

Patients with left-sided pneumothorax presenting with electrocardiogram (ECG) changes resembling acute coronary syndrome (ACS) have been reported in the literature. Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TCM) occurs predominantly in post-menopausal women with underlying intense emotional or physical stress. However, as this case report shows, it can complicate any acute illness leading to intense stress. We report a rare combination of ECG changes mimicking ACS in a man with a large right-sided pneumothorax and TCM.

Induction of defence-related proteins by selected plant growth regulators and biocontrol agents against guava root knot nematode, Meloidogyne enterolobii.

Guava is an important edible and economic fruit crop distributed worldwide. It is widely infested with root knot nematode, Meloidogyne enterolobii which plays a vital role in causing economic losses. Several management strategies were performed to enhance the health status of guava and also to reduce root knot nematode infestation. Among the different aspects, application of plant growth regulators on guava plants under nursery conditions against root knot nematode, M. enterolobii was performed. The guava plants were treated with Salicylic acid (100 ppm), Jasmonic acid (100 ppm), and Indole 3-Butyric Acid (1000 ppm) alone and in combination of two and three. The result of this study revealed that IBA at 1,000 ppm alone (T3) and combined application of plant growth regulators viz., (T4) - Salicylic acid (100 ppm) + Jasmonic acid (100 ppm) + Indole 3-Butyric Acid (1,000 ppm) showed reduction in the nematode population and establishment of new roots (compensatory) and tertiary roots. The combined application of PGRs also increased the Plant height, root length, chlorophyll index, photosynthetic rate, transpiration rate, stomatal conductance, and chlorophyll fluorescence. The activity of various enzymes like total phenols, peroxidase, polyphenol oxidase, acid phosphatase, and phenylalanine ammonia lyase were influenced and developed resistance against root knot nematode, M. enterolobii. Under field conditions, application of Pochonia chlamydosporia and Purpureocilium lilacinum reduced the nematode infestation besides increasing the yield attributes of guava plants.

Preoperative Anxiety in Adult Patients Undergoing Day Care Surgery: Prevalence and Associated Factors.

BACKGROUND: There is a paucity of data related to anxiety levels in patients undergoing day care surgery in India. METHODS: Preoperative anxiety was assessed using Amsterdam Preoperative Anxiety and Information Scale (APAIS) 1 day before surgery and on the day of surgery, and the patients were categorized as cases (APAIS score ≥13) and controls (APAIS score <13). Sociodemographic characteristics, clinical features, and fears associated with anesthesia and surgery were also noted. RESULTS: Out of the 399 patients recruited, 58.1% experienced significant preoperative anxiety. The fear of needles (P = 0.002), fear of waking up during the surgery (P < 0.001), and the patient's need of additional information regarding anesthesia and surgery (P < 0.001) were significantly associated with preoperative anxiety. CONCLUSION: A significant proportion of patients scheduled for day care surgery have preoperative anxiety. A preanesthetic workup of a patient with adequate clarification about their doubts and fears related to anesthesia and surgery is recommended to bring down the level of anxiety.

Disseminated Actinomycosis Presenting as Chronic Right-Heart Failure Due to Right Ventricular and Pericardial Infiltration.

Actinomycosis is an indolent, slowly progressive bacterial infection prevalent in tropical countries, commonly affecting cervicofacial, thoracic, abdominal, or pelvic regions. With early diagnosis and appropriate therapy, the prognosis is excellent. However, late presentation and widespread dissemination can be fatal. This paper reports a rare case of disseminated actinomycosis with fatal cardiac involvement. (Level of Difficulty: Intermediate.).

Should male doctors in Sri Lanka wear a necktie to be recognized and respected?

INTRODUCTION: European cultural norms have influenced physicians' attire in Sri Lanka. The necktie is one such item of clothing which is worn to be recognized and respected as professionals. This study was carried out to assess the perceptions of doctors and patients towards male doctors wearing neckties while providing patient care. METHODOLOGY: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out at the National Hospital of Sri Lanka. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect data from doctors and patients. RESULTS: The study included 105 doctors (57% males) and 333 patients (54% males). Mean ages of the doctors and patients were 37 years (95% C.I. 36-39) and 47 years (95% C.I. 45-49) respectively. Sixty-nine percent of the patients had completed secondary education or above. None of the patients were aware of the risk of spreading infections by wearing a necktie. Of the 41% of doctors who thought it was unnecessary to wear a necktie, 95% believed the necktie can spread infections. Ninety-five percent of patients believed doctors should wear neckties to be identified and respected and to maintain trustworthiness. CONCLUSIONS: None of the patients were aware of the possible risk of spreading infections by wearing a necktie, while most of the doctors who thought neckties were unnecessary also believed neckties can spread infections. Almost all patients thought that doctors should wear a necktie to be recognized and respected. Therefore, implementing a change in dress policy for doctors is a challenging task in Sri Lanka.

2015-2016 Vaccine Effectiveness of Live Attenuated and Inactivated Influenza Vaccines in Children in the United States.

Background: In the 2015-2016 season, quadrivalent live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV) and both trivalent and quadrivalent inactivated influenza vaccine (IIV) were available in the United States. Methods: This study, conducted according to a test-negative case-control design, enrolled children aged 2-17 years presenting to outpatient settings with fever and respiratory symptoms for <5 days at 8 sites across the United States between 30 November 2015 and 15 April 2016. A nasal swab was obtained for reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) testing for influenza, and influenza vaccination was verified in the medical record or vaccine registry. Influenza vaccine effectiveness (VE) was estimated using a logistic regression model. Results: Of 1012 children retained for analysis, most children (59%) were unvaccinated, 10% received LAIV, and 31% received IIV. Influenza A (predominantly antigenically similar to the A/California/7/2009 strain) was detected in 14% and influenza B (predominantly a B/Victoria lineage) in 10%. For all influenza, VE was 46% (95% confidence interval [CI], 7%-69%) for LAIV and 65% (48%-76%) for IIV. VE against influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 was 50% (95% CI, -2% to 75%) for LAIV and 71% (51%-82%) for IIV. The odds ratio for vaccine failure with RT-PCR-confirmed A(H1N1)pdm09 was 1.71 (95% CI, 0.78-3.73) in LAIV versus IIV recipients. Conclusions: LAIV and IIV demonstrated effectiveness against any influenza among children aged 2-17 years in 2015-2016. When compared to all unvaccinated children, VE against influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 was significant for IIV but not LAIV. Clinical Trials Registration: NCT01997450.

Correlation with Caries Lesion Depth of The Canary System, DIAGNOdent and ICDAS II.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to correlate lesion depth of natural caries, measured with Polarized Light Microscopy (PLM), to Canary Numbers (CN) derived from The Canary System™ (CS), numerical readings from DIAGNOdent (DD), and lesion scores from ICDAS II. METHODS: A total of 20 examination sites on extracted human molars and premolars were selected. The selected examination sites consisted of healthy and enamel caries on smooth and occlusal surfaces of each tooth. Two blinded dentists ranked each examination site using ICDAS II and the consensus score for each examined site was recorded. The same examination sites were scanned with CS and DD, and the CN and DD readings were recorded. After all the measurements were completed, the readings of the three caries detection methods were validated with a histological method, Polarized Light Microscopy (PLM). PLM performed by blinded examiners was used as the 'gold standard' to confirm the presence or absence of a caries lesion within each examined site and to determine caries lesion depth. RESULTS: Pearson's coefficients of correlation with caries lesion depth of CNs, DD readings and ICDAS scores were 0.84, 0.21 and 0.77, respectively. Mean ± SD CN for sound sites (n=3), caries lesion depths <800 µm (n=11), and caries lesion depths >800 µm (n=6) were 11±1, 55±15, and 75±22, respectively. Mean ± SD DD readings for sound sites, caries lesion depths <800 µm, and caries lesion depths >800 µm were 1±1, 7±11, and 8±9, respectively. Mean ± SD ICDAS II scores for sound sites, caries lesion depths <800 µm, and caries lesion depths >800 µm were 0±0, 2±1, and 2±1, respectively. The intra-operator repeatability for the Canary System was .953 (0.913, 0.978). CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated that the CS exhibits much higher correlation with caries lesion depth compared to ICDAS II and DD. CS may provide the clinician with more information about the size and position of the lesion which might help in monitoring or treating the lesion.The present extracted tooth study found that The Canary System correlates with caries lesion depth more accurately that ICDAS II and DIAGNOdent.

Marquardt's Facial Golden Decagon Mask and Its Fitness with South Indian Facial Traits.

INTRODUCTION: The mathematical ratio of 1:1.618 which is famously known as golden ratio seems to appear recurrently in beautiful things in nature as well as in other things that are seen as beautiful. Dr. Marquardt developed a facial golden mask that contains and includes all of the one-dimensional and two-dimensional geometric golden elements formed from the golden ratio and he claimed that beauty is universal, beautiful faces conforms to the facial golden mask regardless of sex and race. AIM: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the goodness of fit of the golden facial mask with the South Indian facial traits. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 150 subjects (75 males & 75 females) with attractive faces were selected with cephalometric orthodontic standards of a skeletal class I relation. The facial aesthetics was confirmed by the aesthetic evaluation of the frontal photographs of the subjects by a panel of ten evaluators including five orthodontists and five maxillofacial surgeons. The well-proportioned photographs were superimposed with the Golden mask along the reference lines, to evaluate the goodness of fit. RESULTS: South Indian males and females invariably show a wider inter-zygomatic and inter-gonial width than the golden mask. Most of the South Indian females and males show decreased mid-facial height compared to the golden mask, while the total facial height is more or less equal to the golden mask. CONCLUSION: Ethnic or individual discrepancies cannot be totally ignored as in our study the mask did not fit exactly with the South Indian facial traits but, the beauty ratios came closer to those of the mask. To overcome this difficulty, there is a need to develop variants of golden facial mask for different ethnic groups.

Comparative evaluation of nickel discharge from brackets in artificial saliva at different time intervals.

OBJECTIVES: To determine and compare the potential difference of nickel release from three different orthodontic brackets, in different artificial pH, in different time intervals. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-seven samples of three different orthodontic brackets were selected and grouped as 1, 2, and 3. Each group was divided into three subgroups depending on the type of orthodontic brackets, salivary pH and the time interval. The Nickel release from each subgroup were analyzed by using inductively coupled plasma-Atomic Emission Spectrophotometer (Perkin Elmer, Optima 2100 DV, USA) model. Quantitative analysis of nickel was performed three times, and the mean value was used as result. ANOVA (F-test) was used to test the significant difference among the groups at 0.05 level of significance (P < 0.05). The descriptive method of statistics was used to calculate the mean, standard deviation, minimum and maximum. SPSS 18 software ((SPSS.Ltd, Quarry bay, Hong Kong, PASW-statistics 18) was used to analyze the study. RESULT: The analysis shows a significant difference between three groups. The study shows that the nickel releases from the recycled stainless steel brackets have the highest at all 4.2 pH except in 120 h. CONCLUSION: The study result shows that the nickel release from the recycled stainless steel brackets is highest. Metal slot ceramic bracket release significantly less nickel. So, recycled stainless steel brackets should not be used for nickel allergic patients. Metal slot ceramic brackets are advisable.

Evaluation of nanohydroxyapatite-containing toothpaste for occluding dentin tubules.

PURPOSE: To compare dentin tubule occlusion by dentifrices containing either nanohydroxyapatite (10%nHAP and 15%nHAP), sodium monofluorophosphate (Na-MFP) or NovaMin (NovaMin). METHODS: All 80 participants wore four intraoral appliances bearing dentin blocks while using one of the four test dentifrices (n = 20/dentifrice) twice daily for 14 days. The four appliances were removed in pairs after 7 and 14 days. One treated block from each of the test periods (7 and 14 days) and their untreated controls were examined with SEM to determine the level of tubule occlusion. The remaining two treated blocks and their controls were used to determine tubule permeability to dye solution. Effectiveness was compared statistically (ANOVA/Tukey's) based on % area covered by deposited precipitate layer (%DPL), % dye penetration inhibition (%DPI) and percentage of fully-open (%FOT), partially-occluded (%POT) and completely-occluded (%COT) tubules in each block calculated relative to the number of tubules in their control blocks. RESULTS: SEM showed increased %COT and %DPL overtime. After 7 and 14 days, %COT, %POT, %DPL and %DPI were significantly lower with Na-MFP when compared to 10%nHAP (P < 0.01), NovaMin (P < 0.05) and 15%nHAP (P < 0.001), the three of which were not significantly different from each other in those four variables. A reverse trend was observed with %FOT (P < 0.001). Within the same dentifrice, no difference in %COT, %POT, %FOT, %DPI and %DPL after 7 and 14 days, except with Na-MFP in which %DPL significantly (P< 0.05) increased with usage. In conclusion, nanohydroxyapatite-containing and NovaMin-containing toothpastes showed equal and more effectiveness in occluding dentin tubules than Na-MFP toothpaste.

Evaluation of Glycemic Control in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus using Cytomorphometry of Buccal Cells and Correlation with Glycosylated Hemoglobin.

BACKGROUND: To study cytological alterations in the exfoliated buccal cells of diabetic patients. To analyze the cytomorphometric findings in the smears of uncontrolled and controlled diabetic patients and compare it with that of normal healthy controls. To establish a correlation between cytomorphometric changes and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) in diabetics and normal controls, for evaluation of glycemic control. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study was carried out in 40 confirmed diabetic patients from a hospital out-patient diabetic ward and 20 healthy individuals as controls (Group A: n = 20), in Chennai. Specific exclusion criteria were used to select the study group from a larger group of subjects. Based on HbA1c values, the diabetic patients were categorized into Group B = Controlled diabetics (n = 20) (HbA1c <7%) and Group C = Uncontrolled diabetics (n = 20) (HbA1c >9%). After informed consent, buccal smear was collected from clinically normal appearing mucosa and stained with papanicoloau (PAP) stain. Cytomorphometric analysis of selective PAP stained cells was done using image analysis software, Image Pro Plus 5.5 (Olympus) and parameters determined were average cytoplasmic area (CA), average nuclear area (NA) and cytoplasmic:nuclear (C: N) ratio for an average of 50 cells/patient. RESULTS: Comparing the average NA among three groups, an increase through Group A, B, C, with a maximum significance between Group C and A was seen. The average C: N ratio showed a statistically significant difference between all three groups. Significant correlation existed between the HbA1c values and both the C: N ratio and average NA in all the three groups. CONCLUSIONS: Cytomorphometric analysis of buccal smears using the C: N ratio alteration as a reliable criteria, may serve as yet another non-invasive tool for screening programs for diabetic detection. And the technique may possibly be used also for evaluation of glycemic control in known diabetics.

Effect of theobromine-containing toothpaste on dentin tubule occlusion in situ.

OBJECTIVES: Dentin hypersensitivity (DH) is treated by either occlusion of dentin tubules or nerve desensitization. This in situ study compared dentin tubules occlusion by theobromine-containing dentifrices with (Theodent-classic-F®, TCF) and without (Theodent-classic®, TC) fluoride with 1,500 ppm fluoride toothpaste, Colgate®-Regular (Fluoride) and Novamin®-containing toothpaste, Sensodyne®-5000-Nupro (Novamin®). METHODS: Each subject wore four intraoral appliances bearing dentin blocks while using one of four test dentifrices (n = 20/dentifrice) twice daily for 7 days. The four appliances were removed successively after 1, 2, 3, and 7 days. Treated blocks and their control (untreated) blocks were examined with scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Effects were compared statistically (ANOVA/Tukey's) based on percentage of surface area covered by deposited precipitate layer (%DPL) and percentage of fully open (%FOT), partially occluded (%POT), and completely occluded (%COT) tubules in each block calculated relative to the number of tubules in their control blocks. RESULTS: SEM observation indicated an increased %COT and %DPL over time. After 1 and 2 days, %COT was comparable with TC and TCF, and significantly (p < 0.05) higher compared with Novamin® and Fluoride. Following 3 and 7 days, %COT was comparable among TC, TCF, and Novamin®, but remained significantly lower in Fluoride. At any time, %DPL was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in TC, TCF, and Novamin® compared with Fluoride. CONCLUSIONS: Theobromine-containing toothpastes with and without fluoride have equal potential in occluding dentin tubules within a shorter time period than Novamin®-containing toothpaste; however, the three demonstrated equal potential after 1 week, but not the fluoride toothpaste. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Theobromine-containing toothpaste promoted dentin tubule occlusion thus shows potential to relief DH.

Role of biological sex in normal cardiac function and in its disease outcome - a review.

Biological sex plays an important role in normal cardiac physiology as well as in the heart's response to cardiac disease. Women generally have better cardiac function and survival than do men in the face of cardiac disease; however, this is progressively lost when comparing postmenopausal women with age matched men. Animal model of cardiac disease mirror what is seen in humans. Sex hormones contribute significantly to sex based difference in cardiac functioning and in its disease outcome. Estrogen is considered to be cardioprotective, whereas testosterone is detrimental to heart function.

Study of the effect of stress on skeletal muscle function in geriatrics.

BACKGROUND: Old age is associated with weakness of skeletal muscles and decrease in muscle functions. Usually in old-age, people undergo wasting of muscles, so they are more prone for fall and fracture. It has been stated that stress and cognition has an impact on muscle functions. This study was intended to demonstrate the effect of stress in muscle function in geriatrics. METHODS: This was a cross sectional study done at a charitable home in Chennai sub urban. The geriatric males and females in the old age home were included in this study. Sixty-four subjects were included and the persons with previous history of musculo skeletal and neurological disorders were excluded. Anthropometric parameters were recorded Maximum Voluntary Contraction (MVC) and Endurance Time (ET) were measured by hand grip dynamometer. Perceived stress score was measured by perceived stress scale questionnaire. Muscle function parameters and stress score was compared. RESULTS: Sixty-four subjects were included in this study and it was found out that there is a negative correlation between MVC & stress which was statistically significant. (r = -0.0675, P = 0.000). Age with MVC & ET showed a mild negative correlation but it was not significant. CONCLUSION: Hormones released during stress have a negative metabolic effect in skeletal muscle. Stress can induce earlier decline in muscle strength which will eventually lead to fall and fracture. Therefore, stress should be viewed as an independent risk factor for disability and other co morbid conditions.

Dyslipidaemic changes in women with subclinical hypothyroidism.

BACKGROUND: In overt hypothyroidism, many lipid abnormalities have been documented. This study was intended to demonstrate the levels of lipid in women with subclinical hypothyroidism (SH). MATERIAL AND METHODS: This was a case control study which was done at referral Centre in Chennai. Women with subclinical hypothyroidism and euthyroid women attending our master health checkup clinic were enrolled in this study.Their lipid profile, fasting blood sugar, T3,T4 and TSH levels were measured. In subclinical hypothyroidism, various parameters were compared. RESULTS: Thirty euthyroid and 30 age matched subclinical hypothyroid women were enrolled in this study. There were significant dyslipidaemic changes is SH women as compared to euthyroid controls. Serum total cholesterol and triglyceride levels were significantly higher as compared to those in controls. LDL levels were higher is SH women, but did not reach statistical significance and lower levels of HDL were noticed in SH subjects as compared to those in euthyroid women. A positive association was also reported between serum TSH and lipid parameters in our study group. CONCLUSION: SH, the earliest form of thyroid failure, has negative metabolic effects on the affected subjects.SH could be one of the causes of secondary hyperlipidaemia and should be viewed as an independent risk factor for atherosclerosis, along with obesity, hypertension, diabetes, etc.

In situ remineralization of white-spot enamel lesions by 500 and 1,100 ppm F dentifrices.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the remineralization potential of three silica-containing NaF dentifrice systems in an intraoral model. Subjects (N = 30) in this randomized, three-phase, 28-day, crossover study served as their own control. Each participant wore a customized orthodontic appliance attached to a mandibular molar and contained one tooth block with caries-like lesion. For each phase, participants engaged in twice-daily brushing for 2 min with one of the following dentifrices: 500 ppm F, 500 ppm F plus functionalized ß-tricalcium phosphate (fTCP), and a clinically proven 1,100 ppm F. After each phase, appliances were removed, and specimens were analyzed using surface microhardness (SMH), transverse microradiography (TMR), and cross-sectional microhardness (CSMH). Statistically significant (p < 0.05) remineralization of white-spot lesions relative to baseline occurred for each dentifrice as determined with SMH and TMR. No significant differences (p > 0.05) in SMH were found among the three groups, but trending revealed the 500 ppm F plus fTCP produced 26% and 27% greater SMH recovery relative to 500 and 1,100 ppm F, respectively. Similarly, no significant differences (p > 0.05) in TMR were found among the groups. However, the 500 ppm F plus fTCP dentifrice produced 10% and 38% greater mineral recovery relative to 500 and 1,100 ppm F, respectively, while reducing the lesion depth 30% and 52%, respectively. Significant differences (p < 0.05) in CSMH existed among the three dentifice groups at different enamel depths, but statistical differences (p < 0.05) in relative lesion size were only found between 500 ppm F plus fTCP and 500 ppm F. The combination of fTCP and fluoride in a single-compartment, water-based dentifrice can cooperate with fluoride to produce significant remineralization. These results suggest that the combination of 500 ppm F with fTCP may provide comparable anticaries benefits relative to a 1,100 ppm F dentifrice.