Performance of the Informant Questionnaire on Cognitive Decline for the Elderly (IQCODE) in a nationally representative study in India: the LASI-DAD study

BACKGROUND

Low and middle-income countries like India anticipate rapid population aging and increases in dementia burden. In India, dementia screening scales originally developed in other contexts need to be assessed for feasibility and validity, given the number of different languages and varying levels of literacy and education.

METHOD

Using data from the Longitudinal Aging Study in India-Diagnostic Assessment of Dementia (N = 4,028), we characterize the performance of the Informant Questionnaire on Cognitive Decline in the Elderly (IQCODE). We described patterns and correlates of missingness, evaluated the psychometric properties of the scale, and assessed criterion validity against the Hindi Mental State Examination (HMSE) using linear regression.

RESULTS

Several IQCODE items had high levels of missingness, which was associated with urbanicity, respondent's gender, and informant's generation (same vs. younger generation). Full IQCODE scores showed strong criterion validity against the HMSE; each 1-point increase in IQCODE score was associated with a 3.03-point lower score on the HMSE, controlling for age, gender, and urbanicity. The statistically significant association between IQCODE and HMSE was stronger in urban than rural settings (p-value for interaction = 0.04). Associations between IQCODE and HMSE remained unchanged after removing the three items with the highest levels of differential missingness (remembering addresses and telephone numbers, ability to work with familiar machines, ability to learn to use new gadget or machine).

CONCLUSION

Findings raise questions about the value of including items with high proportions of missingness, which may signal cultural irrelevance, while removing them did not affect criterion validity.

Leave no one behind: A global survey of the current state of geriatric oncology practice by SIOG national representatives

INTRODUCTION

The Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations include a commitment to "leave no one behind" as a universal goal. To achieve this in geriatric oncology (GO) worldwide, it is important to understand the current state of GO at an international level. The International Society of Geriatric Oncology (SIOG) has several National Representatives (NRs) who act as SIOG's delegates in their respective countries. The NRs took part in this international survey exploring the state of GO practice, identifying barriers and solutions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The NRs answered open-ended questions by email from February 2020 to October 2022. The questionnaire domains included the demographic information of older adults for their countries, and the NRs' opinions on whether GO is developing, what the barriers are to developing GO, and proposed actions to remove these barriers. The demographic data of each country reported in the survey was adjusted using literature and database searches.

RESULTS

Twenty-one of thirty countries with NRs (70%) participated in this questionnaire study: 12 European, four Asian, two North American, two South American, and one Oceanian. The proportion of the population aged ≥75 years varied from 2.2% to 15.8%, and the average life expectancy also varied from 70 years to 86 years. All NRs reported that GO was developing in their country; four NRs (18%) reported that GO was well developed. Although all NRs agreed that geriatric assessment was useful, only three reported that it was used day-to-day in their countries' clinical practice (14%). The major barriers identified were the lack of (i) evidence to support GO use, (ii) awareness and interest in GO, and (iii) resources (time, manpower, and funding). The major proposed actions were to (i) provide new evidence through clinical trials specific for GO patients, (ii) stimulate awareness through networking, and (iii) deliver educational materials and information to healthcare providers and medical students.

DISCUSSION

This current survey has identified the barriers to GO and proposed actions that could remove them. Broader awareness seems to be essential to implementing GO. Additional actions are needed to develop GO within countries and can be supported through international partnerships.

Trajectories and correlates of poor mental health in India over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic: a nationwide survey

INTRODUCTION

The COVID-19 pandemic had large impacts on mental health; however, most existing evidence is focused on the initial lockdown period and high-income contexts. By assessing trajectories of mental health symptoms in India over 2 years, we aim to understand the effect of later time periods and pandemic characteristics on mental health in a lower-middle income context.

METHODS

We used data from the Real-Time Insights of COVID-19 in India cohort study (N=3709). We used covariate-adjusted linear regression models with generalised estimating equations to assess associations between mental health (Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-4) score; range 0-12) and pandemic periods as well as pandemic characteristics (COVID-19 cases and deaths, government stringency, self-reported financial impact, COVID-19 infection in the household) and explored effect modification by age, gender and rural/urban residence.

RESULTS

Mental health symptoms dropped immediately following the lockdown period but rose again during the delta and omicron waves. Associations between mental health and later pandemic stages were stronger for adults 45 years of age and older (p<0.001). PHQ-4 scores were significantly associated with all pandemic characteristics considered, including estimated COVID-19 deaths (PHQ-4 difference of 0.10 units; 95% CI 0.06 to 0.13), government stringency index (0.14 units; 95% CI 0.11 to 0.18), self-reported major financial impacts (1.20 units; 95% CI 1.09 to 1.32) and COVID-19 infection in the household (0.36 units; 95% CI 0.23 to 0.50).

CONCLUSION

While the lockdown period and associated financial stress had the largest mental health impacts on Indian adults, the effects of the pandemic on mental health persisted over time, especially among middle-aged and older adults. Results highlight the importance of investments in mental health supports and services to address the consequences of cyclical waves of infections and disease burden due to COVID-19 or other emerging pandemics.

Defining anthropometric thresholds (mid-arm circumference and calf circumference) in older adults residing in the community: a cross-sectional analysis using data from the population representative Longitudinal Aging Study in India (LASI DAD)

OBJECTIVES

To identify factors associated with malnutrition (undernutrition and overnutrition) and determine appropriate cut-off values for mid-arm circumference (MAC) and calf circumference (CC) among community-dwelling Indian older adults.

DESIGN

Data from the first wave of harmonised diagnostic assessment of dementia for Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI-DAD) were used. Various sociodemographic factors, comorbidities, geriatric syndromes, childhood financial and health status were included. Anthropometric measurements included body mass index (BMI), MAC and CC.

SETTING

Nationally representative cohort study including 36 Indian states and union territories.

PARTICIPANTS

4096 older adults aged >60 years from LASI DAD.

OUTCOME MEASURES

The outcome variable was BMI, categorised as low (<18.5 kg/m2), normal (18.5-22.9 kg/m2) and high (>23 kg/m2). The cut-off values of MAC and CC were derived using ROC curve with BMI as the gold standard.

RESULTS

902 (weighted percentage 20.55%) had low BMI, 1742 (44.25%) had high BMI. Undernutrition was associated with age, wealth-quintile and impaired cognition, while overnutrition was associated with higher education, urban living and comorbidities such as hypertension, diabetes and chronic heart disease. For CC, the optimal lower and upper cut-offs for males were 28.1 cm and >31.5 cm, respectively, while for females, the corresponding values were 26 cm and >29 cm. Similarly, the optimal lower and upper cut-offs for MAC in males were 23.9 cm and >26.9 cm, and for females, they were 22.5 cm and >25 cm.

CONCLUSION

Our study identifies a high BMI prevalence, especially among females, individuals with higher education, urban residents and those with comorbidities. We establish gender-specific MAC and CC cut-off values with significant implications for healthcare, policy and research. Tailored interventions can address undernutrition and overnutrition in older adults, enhancing standardised nutritional assessment and well-being.

Trajectories and correlates of poor mental health in India over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic: a nation-wide survey

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic had large impacts on mental health; however, most existing evidence is focused on the initial lockdown period and high-income contexts. By assessing trajectories of mental health symptoms in India over two years, we aim to understand the effect of later time periods and pandemic characteristics on mental health in a lower-middle income context.

Methods

We used data from the Real-Time Insights of COVID-19 in India (RTI COVID-India) cohort study (N=3,662). We used covariate-adjusted linear regression models with generalized estimating equations to assess associations between mental health (PHQ-4 score) and pandemic periods as well as pandemic characteristics (COVID-19 cases and deaths, government stringency, self-reported financial impact, COVID-19 infection in the household) and explored effect modification by age, gender, and rural/urban residence.

Results

Mental health symptoms dropped immediately following the lockdown period but rose again during the delta and omicron waves. Associations between mental health and later pandemic stages were stronger for adults 45 years of age and older (p<0.001). PHQ-4 scores were significantly and independently associated with all pandemic characteristics considered, including estimated COVID-19 deaths (PHQ-4 difference of 0.041 SD units; 95% Confidence Interval 0.030 - 0.053), government stringency index (0.060 SD units; 0.048 - 0.072), self-reported major financial impacts (0.45 SD units; 0.41-0.49), and COVID-19 infection in the household (0.11 SD units; 0.07-0.16).

Conclusion

While the lockdown period and associated financial stress had the largest mental health impacts on Indian adults, the effects of the pandemic on mental health persisted over time, especially among middle-age and older adults. Results highlight the importance of investments in mental health supports and services to address the consequences of cyclical waves of infections and disease burden due to COVID-19 or other emerging pandemics.

The prevalence of frailty and its relationship with sociodemographic factors, regional healthcare disparities, and healthcare utilization in the aging population across India

Objective

To estimate frailty prevalence and its relationship with the socio-economic and regional factors and health care outcomes.

Methods

In this study, participants from the harmonized Diagnostic Assessment of Dementia for the Longitudinal Aging Study in India (LASI-DAD) were included. The frailty index (FI) was calculated using a 32-variable deficit model, with a value of ≥ 25% considered as frail. Data on demographic (including caste and religion) and socioeconomic profiles and health care utilization were obtained. The state-wise health index maintained by the government based on various health-related parameters was used to group the participants' residential states into high-, intermediate-, and low-performing states. Multivariable and zero-inflated negative binomial regression was used to assess the relationship of frailty index with sociodemographic characteristics, health index, and health care expenditure or hospitalization.

Results

Among the 3953 eligible participants, the prevalence of frailty was 42.34% (men = 34.99% and women = 49.35%). Compared to high-performing states, intermediate- and low-performing states had a higher proportion of frail individuals (49.7% vs. 46.8% vs. 34.5%, P < 0.001). In the adjusted analysis, frailty was positively associated with age, female sex, rural locality, lower education level, and caste (scheduled caste and other backward classes). After adjusting for the socio-economic profile, FI was inversely associated with the composite health index of a state (P < 0.001). FI was also significantly correlated with total 1-year health care expenditure and hospitalization (P < 0.001 and 0.020, respectively).

Conclusion

There is a high prevalence of frailty among older Indian adults that is associated with sociodemographic factors and regional health care performance. Furthermore, frailty is associated with increased health care utilization and expenditure.

The current status of geriatric oncology in India

Geriatric oncology in India is relatively new. The number of older persons with cancer is increasing exponentially; at our institution, 34% of patients registered are 60 years and over. Apart from the Tata Memorial Hospital in Mumbai, there are currently no other Indian centers that have a dedicated geriatric oncology unit. Geriatric assessments (GAs) are done sporadically, and older patients with cancer are usually assessed and treated based on clinical judgement. Challenges to increasing the uptake of GA include a lack of training/time/interest or knowledge of the importance of the GA. Other challenges include a lack of trained personnel with expertise in geriatric oncology, and a paucity of research studies that seek to advance the outcomes in older Indian patients with cancer. We anticipate that over the next 10 years, along with the inevitable increase in the number of older persons with cancer in India, there will be a commensurate increase in the number of skilled personnel to care for them. Key goals for the future include increased research output, increased number of dedicated geriatric oncology units across the country, India-specific geriatric oncology guidelines, geriatric oncology training programs, and a focus on collaborative work across India and with global partners. In this narrative review, we provide a broad overview of the status of geriatric oncology in India, along with a description of the work done at our center. We hope to spark interest and provide inspiration to readers to consider developing geriatric oncology services in other settings.

Measuring gut perfusion and blood flow in neonates using ultrasound Doppler of the superior mesenteric artery: a narrative review

The gut is a relatively silent organ in utero but takes on a major role after birth for the absorption and digestion of feed for adequate nutrition and growth. The neonatal circulation undergoes a transition period after birth, and gut perfusion increases rapidly to satisfy the oxygen demand and consumption. If this process is compromised at any stage, preterm and fetal growth restricted infants are at particular risk of gut tissue injury secondary to hypoxia, leading to necrotizing enterocolitis. Feeding can also be a challenge in these high-risk groups due to gut dysmotility. Superior mesenteric artery (SMA) Doppler is a safe, bedside investigation that could rapidly aid clinicians with feeding strategies and in monitoring high-risk infants. This article aims to establish normal patterns of gut blood flow velocity in neonates using SMA Doppler and reviews how it might be used clinically in pathologic states.

Prevalence of dementia in India: National and state estimates from a nationwide study

INTRODUCTION

Prior estimates of dementia prevalence in India were based on samples from selected communities, inadequately representing the national and state populations.

METHODS

From the Longitudinal Aging Study in India (LASI) we recruited a sample of adults ages 60+ and administered a rich battery of neuropsychological tests and an informant interview in 2018 through 2020. We obtained a clinical consensus rating of dementia status for a subsample (N = 2528), fitted a logistic model for dementia status on this subsample, and then imputed dementia status for all other LASI respondents aged 60+ (N = 28,949).

RESULTS

The estimated dementia prevalence for adults ages 60+ in India is 7.4%, with significant age and education gradients, sex and urban/rural differences, and cross-state variation.

DISCUSSION

An estimated 8.8 million Indians older than 60 years have dementia. The burden of dementia cases is unevenly distributed across states and subpopulations and may therefore require different levels of local planning and support.

HIGHLIGHTS

The estimated dementia prevalence for adults ages 60+ in India is 7.4%. About 8.8 million Indians older than 60 years live with dementia. Dementia is more prevalent among females than males and in rural than urban areas. Significant cross-state variation exists in dementia prevalence.

Improving care for older adults with hematological malignancies in India: Conquering the challenge

In India, the number of older adults is steadily increasing and expected to reach around 200 million by 2030. Along with demographic change, India is experiencing a shift in family structure from multi-generational to nuclear families, affecting the social and psychological support available to older adults. The majority of hematological malignancies are diagnosed after the age of 60 years. Multiple issues associated with ageing, denoted as geriatric impairments, adversely affect the care of patients with cancer. Geriatric assessment and management is conspicuously underutilized and missing from the medical education curriculum in developing countries including India. Geriatric assessments may provide valuable information for the care of older adults with hematological malignancies, but incorporating geriatrics into the care of older patients with cancer in India will require knowledge of different approaches and consideration of the local healthcare context. In this article we will discuss the distinctive considerations in caring for older adults with hematological malignancies in India and to examine the unmet needs, challenges, and opportunities in improving the care of this population in the Indian context.

Unmet Needs in Geriatric Oncology

Nikhil PathiIndia's population is aging, with the number of people aged 60 and over projected to reach 340 million by 2050. This is expected to lead to an increase in the number of older adults with cancer. Geriatric oncology is a rapidly growing field in India that is facing several challenges. Some of these include inadequate access to cancer screening and early detection programs in elderly, leading to late diagnoses and poor outcomes, lack of specialized geriatric oncology services, cancer-specific treatment guidelines and protocols in elderly, limited availability of treatment options due to accessibility, finances and other logistic issues, lack of trained healthcare professionals with expertise in geriatric oncology, lack of awareness, and access to early integrated palliative care services. There are several challenges faced by elderly in this journey like financial dependency, social isolation, difficulty in transportation to healthcare for treatments, and psychosocial aspects attributed to cancer. Awareness about availability of resources, patient assistance programs to reduce financial burdens, education campaigns, use of telemedicine and telehealth services to bypass transportation issues in remote and underserved areas, and integration of geriatric oncology into mainstream oncology services might be some solutions. Additionally, there is a need for more research on the unique characteristics and needs of older cancer patients in India, as well as the development of culturally appropriate interventions to address these needs. Development of India-specific geriatric assessment scales encompassing medical, psychosocial, and functional problems in elderly identifies areas of vulnerability. A multidisciplinary team-based decision-making is required at various levels. There is a need for increased investment in geriatric oncology research, training, and integrated palliative care services in India. Geriatric oncology is slowly being recognized as a separate subspeciality and more geriatric oncology centers and clinics are being set up in major cities in India that should be the way forward.

Cohort Profile: Real-Time Insights of COVID-19 in India (RTI COVID-India)

BACKGROUND

The coronavirus disease (COVID) pandemic caused disruption globally and was particularly distressing in low- and middle-income countries such as India. This study aimed to provide population representative estimates of COVID-related outcomes in India over time and characterize how COVID-related changes and impacts differ by key socioeconomic groups across the life course.

METHODS

The sample was leveraged from an existing nationally representative study on cognition and dementia in India: Harmonized Diagnostic Assessment of Dementia for the Longitudinal Aging Study in India (LASI-DAD). The wave-1 of LASI-DAD enrolled 4096 older adults aged 60 years and older in 3316 households from 18 states and union territories of India. Out of the 3316 LASI-DAD households, 2704 with valid phone numbers were contacted and invited to participate in the Real-Time Insights COVID-19 in India (RTI COVID-India) study. RTI COVID-India was a bi-monthly phone survey that provided insight into the individual's knowledge, attitudes, and behaviour towards COVID-19 and changes in the household's economic and health conditions throughout the pandemic. The survey was started in May 2020 and 9 rounds of data have been collected.

FINDINGS TILL DATE

Out of the 2704 LASI-DAD households with valid phone numbers, 1766 households participated in the RTI COVID-India survey at least once. Participants were in the age range of 18-102 years, 49% were female, 66% resided in rural area. Across all rounds, there was a higher report of infection among respondents aged 60-69 years. There was a greater prevalence of COVID-19 diagnosis reported in urban (23.0%) compared to rural areas (9.8%). Respondents with higher education had a greater prevalence of COVID-19 diagnosis compared to those with lower or no formal education. Highest prevalence of COVID-19 diagnosis was reported from high economic status compared to middle and low economic status households. Comparing education gradients in experiencing COVID-19 symptoms and being diagnosed, we observe an opposite pattern: respondents with no formal schooling reported the highest level of experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, whereas the greatest proportion of the respondents with secondary school or higher education reported being diagnosed with COVID-19.

FUTURE PLANS

The study group will analyse the data collected showing the real-time changes throughout the pandemic and will make the data widely available for researchers to conduct further studies.

Deep phenotyping and genomic data from a nationally representative study on dementia in India

The Harmonized Diagnostic Assessment of Dementia for the Longitudinal Aging Study in India (LASI-DAD) is a nationally representative in-depth study of cognitive aging and dementia. We present a publicly available dataset of harmonized cognitive measures of 4,096 adults 60 years of age and older in India, collected across 18 states and union territories. Blood samples were obtained to carry out whole blood and serum-based assays. Results are included in a venous blood specimen datafile that can be linked to the Harmonized LASI-DAD dataset. A global screening array of 960 LASI-DAD respondents is also publicly available for download, in addition to neuroimaging data on 137 LASI-DAD participants. Altogether, these datasets provide comprehensive information on older adults in India that allow researchers to further understand risk factors associated with cognitive impairment and dementia.

1146 SLEEP DEPRIVATION INDUCES AGEING-LIKE CHANGES IN ANTIGRAVITY MUSCLES OF YOUNG ADULT MALE WISTAR RATS

Introduction

Poor muscle health is associated with a series of chronic and metabolic conditions that are prevalent in individuals who chronically experience poor-quality sleep. But there is no study deciphering the role of sleep deprivation on muscle ageing. Therefore, in the present study we have measured the ultrastructure, histopathology, and oxidative stressors in soleus muscle of wistar rat after sleep deprivation and recovery sleep.

Material and Methods

The experiments were conducted in 18 rats of three groups. Group I rats had normal sleep wake cycle, Group II rats were subjected to 24 h sleep deprivation (SD) by gentle handling method1 and Group III rats had recovery sleep after 24 h SD. At the end of the sleep, sleep deprivation and recovery period, soleus muscle tissue was collected for ultrastructural, histological and oxidative stress markers. Oxidative damage was assessed by lipid peroxidation, catalase activity, reduced glutathione and nuclear labelling of 8-OHdG. The study was conducted as per the guidelines of the Institutional Animal Ethics Committee (960/IAEC/16).

Results

The data demonstrated that SD leads to ultrastructural changes in soleus muscle which includes sarcolemmal and mitochondrial alterations. In case of histopathological and histomorphological changes there was signs of tissue degeneration, inflammatory infiltrate in type I fibres and muscle atrophy was observed in soleus muscles. There was significant increase in level of 8-OHdG (p=0.02) and malondialdehyde in 24h SD (p=0.02) than control and recovery sleep groups. Moreover, the catalase activity and reduced glutathione level was significantly decreased in 24h SD group (p≤0.02) than control and recovery sleep.

Conclusion

24hr sleep deprivation leads to an ageing like state in the skeletal muscle, which was recovered after sleep rebound.

Association Between Cognitive Performance and Nutritional Status: Analysis From LASI-DAD

Malnutrition in low- and middle-income countries causes cognitive decline and other health problems. Harmonized Diagnostic Assessment of Dementia for Longitudinal Aging Study in India (LASI DAD) is an extensive study on late-life cognition and dementia. This study examines the link between nutrition and cognitive abilities in older adults using data from the LASI DAD. We conducted descriptive statistics on nutritional parameters (body-mass index, waist-hip ratio, and Mini-Nutritional Assessment), cognitive functions, and socio-demographic variables in 2,892 adults aged ≥60 years. Cognitive domains assessed included delayed recall, orientation, language, executive function, abstract reasoning, and attention. Cognitive impairment was defined as impaired performance in two or more domains. Mean age was 69.3 ± 7.1 years, 52.9% were female, and 57.5% were illiterate. Low body-mass index (adjusted OR: 1.88, p < .001), at risk of malnutrition (adjusted OR: 1.89, p < .001) and malnourished (adjusted OR: 2.86, p < .001) on Mini-Nutritional Assessment were associated with the presence of cognitive impairment. Better cognitive performance was associated with increased body mass index (adjusted OR: 0.74, p-.03), hemoglobin (adjusted OR: 0.91, p-.006), and serum albumin (adjusted OR: 0.38, p < .001). This study shows that nutritional status assessed by anthropometric measures and blood markers is strongly linked to cognitive performance in older adults.

Pregnancy and neonatal outcomes of COVID-19: The PAN-COVID study

OBJECTIVE

To assess perinatal outcomes for pregnancies affected by suspected or confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection.

METHODS

Prospective, web-based registry. Pregnant women were invited to participate if they had suspected or confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection between 1st January 2020 and 31st March 2021 to assess the impact of infection on maternal and perinatal outcomes including miscarriage, stillbirth, fetal growth restriction, pre-term birth and transmission to the infant.

RESULTS

Between April 2020 and March 2021, the study recruited 8239 participants who had suspected or confirmed SARs-CoV-2 infection episodes in pregnancy between January 2020 and March 2021. Maternal death affected 14/8197 (0.2%) participants, 176/8187 (2.2%) of participants required ventilatory support. Pre-eclampsia affected 389/8189 (4.8%) participants, eclampsia was reported in 40/ 8024 (0.5%) of all participants. Stillbirth affected 35/8187 (0.4 %) participants. In participants delivering within 2 weeks of delivery 21/2686 (0.8 %) were affected by stillbirth compared with 8/4596 (0.2 %) delivering ≥ 2 weeks after infection (95 % CI 0.3-1.0). SGA affected 744/7696 (9.3 %) of livebirths, FGR affected 360/8175 (4.4 %) of all pregnancies. Pre-term birth occurred in 922/8066 (11.5%), the majority of these were indicated pre-term births, 220/7987 (2.8%) participants experienced spontaneous pre-term births. Early neonatal deaths affected 11/8050 livebirths. Of all neonates, 80/7993 (1.0%) tested positive for SARS-CoV-2.

CONCLUSIONS

Infection was associated with indicated pre-term birth, most commonly for fetal compromise. The overall proportions of women affected by SGA and FGR were not higher than expected, however there was the proportion affected by stillbirth in participants delivering within 2 weeks of infection was significantly higher than those delivering ≥ 2 weeks after infection. We suggest that clinicians' threshold for delivery should be low if there are concerns with fetal movements or fetal heart rate monitoring in the time around infection. The proportion affected by pre-eclampsia amongst participants was not higher than would be expected, although we report a higher than expected proportion affected by eclampsia. There appears to be no effect on birthweight or congenital malformations in women affected by SARS-CoV-2 infection in pregnancy and neonatal infection is uncommon. This study reflects a population with a range of infection severity for SARS-COV-2 in pregnancy, generalisable to whole obstetric populations.

Association of geriatric syndromes in older adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Background

Geriatric syndromes (GS) are multi‐factorial conditions that make older adults vulnerable to morbidities and poor outcomes. The main objective was to observe the frequency of GS in older patients with COPD.

Methods

A case‐control study was conducted in the Geriatric department of a tertiary care hospital in India to evaluate geriatric syndromes including falls, cognitive impairment, frailty, functional impairment, urinary incontinence, malnutrition, and depression in patients with COPD and controls without COPD. The factors having a significant association with the occurrence of these GS in COPD patients were observed.

Results

In this study, 150 cases and 150 controls were included. The mean age of the participant was 65.85±5.54, with 76% males. Functional impairment, cognitive impairment, frailty, urinary incontinence, and malnutrition were significantly higher in COPD patients. The independent variables which increased the odds of geriatric syndromes were dyspnoea (≥2 mMRC grade) (AOR:3.54,95% CI:1.06‐11.8) and low socioeconomic status (AOR: 4.14, 95% CI: 1.03‐16.54), while male gender showed inverse association (AOR: 0.08,95% CI: 0.01‐0.99).

Conclusion

Geriatric syndromes are common in older COPD patients, and assessment for them should be done routinely in these patients.

Discrepancy in Fluid and Crystallized Intelligence: An Early Cognitive Marker of Dementia from the LASI-DAD Cohort

Background

Cognitive aging is a complex phenomenon, which comprises various cognitive skills, broadly categorized into fluid and crystallized intelligence. Crystallized intelligence (gc) tends to be maintained, as opposed to fluid intelligence (gf), which tends to decline rapidly with age. The association of the two with cognitive decline remains a matter of conjecture requiring further research.

Aim

The aim of the study was to identify the variables of gc and gf from a population data of Longitudinal Aging Study in India-Diagnostic Assessment of Dementia (LASI-DAD) study and investigate its relationship with the onset of cognitive impairment using discrepancy analysis against neuropsychological tests.

Methods

This analysis of data from LASI-DAD study was carried out on a sample of 3,223 participants. They were assessed on extensive thirteen cognitive tests and one subjective test of cognition. Standardized score was used for discrepancy analysis. Fluid ability minus crystallized ability was used to assess the cognitive impairment. Any statistical significance with the score difference >0.99 SD was defined as a presence of cognitive decline. Hindi Mental Status Examination (HMSE) and the Informant Questionnaire on Cognitive Decline in the Elderly (IQCODE) were used as gold standard.

Results

With increased discrepancy score, each cognitive parameter score declined which was found to be statistically significant. In HMSE (Normal = 25.81 ± 3.39; Impaired = 23.17 ± 3.54; p = <0.001), there was a drop of 2 point scores in identifying cognitive impairment in the population sample as per the gold standard. A similar trend was evident in other neurocognitive domains as well.

Conclusion

Crystallized-fluid intelligence discrepancy analysis has a strong potential in predicting the onset of cognitive decline ahead of time, facilitating early intervention.

Adherence to COVID-19 protective behaviours in India from May to December 2020: evidence from a nationally representative longitudinal survey

OBJECTIVES

Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, behavioural interventions to reduce disease transmission have been central to public health policy worldwide. Sustaining individual protective behaviour is especially important in low-income and middle-income settings, where health systems have fewer resources and access to vaccination is limited. This study seeks to assess time trends in COVID-19 protective behaviour in India.

DESIGN

Nationally representative, panel-based, longitudinal study.

SETTING

We conducted a panel survey of Indian households to understand how the adoption of COVID-19 protective behaviours has changed over time. Our data span peaks and valleys of disease transmission over May-December 2020.

PARTICIPANTS

Respondents included 3719 adults from 1766 Indian households enrolled in the Harmonised Diagnostic Assessment of Dementia for the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India.

ANALYSIS

We used ordinary least squares regression analysis to quantify time trends in protective behaviours.

RESULTS

We find a 30.6 percentage point (95% CI (26.7 to 34.5); p<0.01) decline in protective behaviours related to social distancing over the observation period. Mask wearing and handwashing, in contrast, decreased by only 4.3 percentage points (95% CI (0.97 to 7.6); p<0.05) from a high base. Our conclusions are unchanged after adjusting for recorded COVID-19 caseload and nationwide COVID-19 containment policy; we also observe significant declines across socioeconomic strata spanning age, gender, education and urbanicity.

CONCLUSION

We argue that these changes reflect, at least in part, 'COVID-19 fatigue,' where adherence to social distancing becomes more difficult over time irrespective of the surrounding disease environment.

Prevalence and molecular characterization of extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) producing Escherichia coli isolated from dogs suffering from diarrhea in and around Kolkata

BACKGROUND

Dogs are the favorite companion animals among humans. The close interaction between dogs and people increases the risk of antibiotic resistance spreading. Surveillance for antimicrobial resistance and the identification of ESBL-producing Escherichia coli as an indicator bacterium is an important tool for managing antimicrobial drug therapy.

AIMS

The present study targeted to identify and characterize ESBL-producing E. coli among dogs suffering from diarrhea in and around Kolkata.

METHODS

Isolation and identification of E. coli from dogs suffering from diarrhea (n=70) along with screening for the production of both ESBL and AmpC. The isolates were further characterized through antimicrobial resistance profiling, resistance genes (bla _CTX-M, bla _TEM, and bla _SHV) screening, and phylogenetic group study.

RESULTS

Among the 70 isolates, 21 (30%) were confirmed ESBL producers. An antibiogram typing of ESBL-producing E. coli revealed that the majority of them were resistant to norfloxacin (85.7%) followed by tetracycline (61.90%), doxycycline (57.14%), piperacillin/tazobactam (52.38%), cotrimoxazole (47.62%), gentamicin (42.62%), amikacin (23.81%), and chloramphenicol (19.05%). Major resistance genes included bla _CTX-M (100%), bla _TEM (28.57%), and bla _SHV (9.50%). The predominant phylogenetic groups were phylogroup A (76%) followed by phylogroup D (24%).

CONCLUSION

The current investigation reported a high prevalence of both ESBL and AmpC β-lactamase (AmpC) producing E. coli, co-resistance to a distinct group of antibiotics, and co-existence of different ESBL genes in dogs. Our findings highlight the importance of diagnostic antimicrobial susceptibility testing for proper antimicrobial therapy and to prevent antimicrobial resistance from spreading to humans from dogs in Kolkata and the surrounding area.

Current perspectives on defining and mitigating frailty in relation to critical illness

Up to half of ICU survivors, many of whom were premorbidly well, will have residual functional and/or cognitive impairment and be vulnerable to future health problems. Frailty describes vulnerability to poor resolution of homeostasis after a stressor event but it is not clear whether the vulnerability seen after ICU correlates with clinical measures of frailty. In clinical practice, the scales most commonly used in critically ill patients are based on the assessment of severity and survival. Identification and monitoring of frailty in the ICU may be an alternative or complimentary approach, particularly if it helps explain vulnerability during the recovery and rehabilitation period. The purpose of this review is to discuss the use of tools to assess frailty status in the critically ill, and consider their importance in clinical practice. Amongst these, we consider biomarkers with potential to identify patients at greater or lesser risk of developing post-ICU vulnerability.

Serum 25(OH)D Concentration and Cardiovascular Disease Risk Markers Among Middle-Aged Healthy and Type 2 Diabetic Subjects

Vitamin D deficiency is a major widespread health concern and is linked to a high risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Thus, we have investigated the association of vitamin D with various CVD risk markers. The present study comprises 90 control and 90 type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) subjects of both sexes (age range, 30-50 years). The 25 hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] and CVD risk markers including high sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), intact parathyroid hormone (I-PTH), fibroblast growth factor (FGF)-23, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and fibrinogen were measured by using standard assays. Blood viscosity and atherogenic index of plasma calculated using standard formulae. The ten-year cardiovascular risk was assessed using the Framingham risk score (FRS). 25(OH)D, hs-CRP, MCP-1, FGF-23, ESR, fibrinogen, atherogenic index of plasma and FRS were significantly different between control and T2DM groups (p<0.05). 25(OH)D showed a significant negative correlation with MCP-1, ESR, blood viscosity, atherogenic index of plasma and FRS among total study subjects. Further, logistics regression analysis showed an association of 25(OH)D with MCP-1, hematocrit, fibrinogen, and blood viscosity. The association between 25(OH)D and various CVD risk markers suggests that 25(OH)D might help in the prediction of CVD risk.

Lung cancer in the older population:Interactive effects of angiotensin converting enzyme gene polymorphism (rs 4340 ID) and tobacco addiction in risk assessment

BACKGROUND

rs4340ID polymorphism of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) correlates with serum ACE levels in many known cancers. This study analyzed ACE rs4340 ID polymorphism in lung cancer (LC) in older patients of North India and correlated it with addiction status.

METHODS

The study enrolled all subjects aged 60 years and above with 154 LC and 205 healthy controls. Genotyping was done by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and validated by sequencing of 10% of the sample. Statistical analysis was done by SPSS Statistics 21.

RESULTS

Genotype II was observed to have a significant 2.21-fold increased risk of LC as compared to the DD genotype and 3.43-folds enhanced risk with interaction of I allele with tobacco consumption habits as compared to D allele in LC was seen.

CONCLUSION

The risk of LC was higher with II genotype as compared to DD genotype. Interactive effect showed that I allele with tobacco habits may increase the risk of LC.

Pregnancy and neonatal outcomes of COVID-19: coreporting of common outcomes from PAN-COVID and AAP-SONPM registries

OBJECTIVE

Few large cohort studies have reported data on maternal, fetal, perinatal and neonatal outcomes associated with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection in pregnancy. We report the outcome of infected pregnancies from a collaboration formed early during the pandemic between the investigators of two registries, the UK and Global Pregnancy and Neonatal outcomes in COVID-19 (PAN-COVID) study and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Section on Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine (SONPM) National Perinatal COVID-19 Registry.

METHODS

This was an analysis of data from the PAN-COVID registry (1 January to 25 July 2020), which includes pregnancies with suspected or confirmed maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection at any stage in pregnancy, and the AAP-SONPM National Perinatal COVID-19 registry (4 April to 8 August 2020), which includes pregnancies with positive maternal testing for SARS-CoV-2 from 14 days before delivery to 3 days after delivery. The registries collected data on maternal, fetal, perinatal and neonatal outcomes. The PAN-COVID results are presented overall for pregnancies with suspected or confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection and separately in those with confirmed infection.

RESULTS

We report on 4005 pregnant women with suspected or confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection (1606 from PAN-COVID and 2399 from AAP-SONPM). For obstetric outcomes, in PAN-COVID overall and in those with confirmed infection in PAN-COVID and AAP-SONPM, respectively, maternal death occurred in 0.5%, 0.5% and 0.2% of cases, early neonatal death in 0.2%, 0.3% and 0.3% of cases and stillbirth in 0.5%, 0.6% and 0.4% of cases. Delivery was preterm (< 37 weeks' gestation) in 12.0% of all women in PAN-COVID, in 16.1% of those women with confirmed infection in PAN-COVID and in 15.7% of women in AAP-SONPM. Extreme preterm delivery (< 27 weeks' gestation) occurred in 0.5% of cases in PAN-COVID and 0.3% in AAP-SONPM. Neonatal SARS-CoV-2 infection was reported in 0.9% of all deliveries in PAN-COVID overall, in 2.0% in those with confirmed infection in PAN-COVID and in 1.8% in AAP-SONPM; the proportions of neonates tested were 9.5%, 20.7% and 87.2%, respectively. The rates of a small-for-gestational-age (SGA) neonate were 8.2% in PAN-COVID overall, 9.7% in those with confirmed infection and 9.6% in AAP-SONPM. Mean gestational-age-adjusted birth-weight Z-scores were -0.03 in PAN-COVID and -0.18 in AAP-SONPM.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings from the UK and USA registries of pregnancies with SARS-CoV-2 infection were remarkably concordant. Preterm delivery affected a higher proportion of women than expected based on historical and contemporaneous national data. The proportions of pregnancies affected by stillbirth, a SGA infant or early neonatal death were comparable to those in historical and contemporaneous UK and USA data. Although maternal death was uncommon, the rate was higher than expected based on UK and USA population data, which is likely explained by underascertainment of women affected by milder or asymptomatic infection in pregnancy in the PAN-COVID study, although not in the AAP-SONPM study. The data presented support strong guidance for enhanced precautions to prevent SARS-CoV-2 infection in pregnancy, particularly in the context of increased risks of preterm delivery and maternal mortality, and for priority vaccination of pregnant women and women planning pregnancy. Copyright © 2021 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Development and Psychometric Validation of a New Scale for Assessment and Screening of Frailty Among Older Indians

Background

Frailty is a major challenge for healthcare systems in ageing societies. This dynamic state of health is a reflection of reduced reserve in various organ systems and enhanced vulnerability to stressors. Research in this area of geriatrics and gerontology is limited in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) like India. This study is directed at development of a culturally appropriate and validated assessment scale for frailty among older Indians.

Methods

After extensive review of the literature on existing scales, a preliminary draft scale was formed. This draft was pre- and pilot-tested to check feasibility and modified accordingly. The final scale was validated on 107 older adults by confirmatory factor analysis and was named the Frailty Assessment and Screening Tool (FAST). The Fried’s frailty phenotype was also administered on the same 107 older adults and scores of both were co-related. Suitable cut-off scores were found for frail and pre-frail older adults.

Results

The final version of the FAST consisted of 14 questions pertaining to 10 domains. It has good reliability. Cronbach’s alpha co-efficient was 0.99; test–retest reliability was 0.97 and validity by confirmatory factor analysis was adequate. The Kaiser–CMeyer–Olkin (KMO) of sampling adequacy was 0.699, and Bartlett’s test of sphericity was significant (χ² = 353.471, p < 0.001). FAST scores had a cut-off of ≥ 7/14 for frail and ≥ 5/14 for pre-frail elderly.

Conclusion

The FAST is a validated tool with good psychometric properties. It is expected that it will be helpful in screening pre-frail and frail older adults in India and other LMICs and guide in clinical decision making for intervention.

Design and Methodology of the Longitudinal Aging Study in India—Diagnostic Assessment of Dementia

Longitudinal Aging Study in India is a nationally representative survey of the health, economic, and social wellbeing of the Indian population aged 45 and older. LASI-DAD is an in-depth study of late-life cognition and dementia, drawing a sub-sample of over 4,000 LASI respondents aged 60 or older. Respondents underwent a battery of cognitive tests, while their informants were interviewed about their cognitive and health conditions. A common set of cognitive tests was selected to enable international comparisons, and additional cognitive tests suitable for illiterate and innumerate populations were also selected. Rich data on risk factors of dementia were collected through health examinations, venous blood assays, and genotyping. The response rate was 82.9%, varying across sex, education, and urbanicity. LASI-DAD provides an opportunity to study late-life cognition and dementia and their risk factors in the older population in India and to gain further insights through cross-country analysis.

Design and Methodology of the Longitudinal Aging Study in India-Diagnostic Assessment of Dementia (LASI-DAD)

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

To provide high-quality data on older adults in India that will enable an in-depth study of late-life cognition and dementia in India and cross-country analysis of risk factors for cognitive aging and dementia.

DESIGN

The Longitudinal Aging Study in India (LASI) is a nationally representative survey of health, economic, and social well-being of the Indian population aged 45 and older. Its large sample of more than 70,000 older adults represents not only the country as a whole but also each state. LASI-Diagnostic Assessment of Dementia (DAD) is an in-depth study of late-life cognition and dementia, drawing a subsample of over 3,000 LASI respondents aged 60 and older.

SETTING

Participants were interviewed at home or in a participating hospital according to their preferences.

PARTICIPANTS

Adults aged 60 and older (N = 3,224), along with 3,191 informants.

MEASUREMENTS

Respondents underwent a battery of cognitive tests, and informants were interviewed about their cognitive and health conditions. A common set of cognitive tests was selected to enable international comparisons, and additional cognitive tests suitable for illiterate and innumerate populations were also selected. Rich data on risk factors of dementia were collected through health examination, venous blood assays, and genotyping.

RESULTS

The response rate was 82.9%, varying across sex, education, and urbanicity. Data are available to other researchers.

CONCLUSION

LASI-DAD provides an opportunity to study late-life cognition and dementia and their risk factors in the older population in India and to gain further insights through cross-country analysis by pooling data from its international sister studies. J Am Geriatr Soc 68:S5-S10, 2020.

Hypertension and Cognitive Health Among Older Adults in India

OBJECTIVES

To assess the prevalence of diagnosed and undiagnosed hypertension and their relationship to cognitive function in older adults in India.

DESIGN

Longitudinal Aging Study in India-Diagnostic Assessment of Dementia (LASI-DAD), an in-depth national study of late-life cognition and dementia.

SETTING

Geriatric hospitals and respondents' homes across 14 states in India.

PARTICIPANTS

N = 2,874 individuals aged 60 years and older from LASI-DAD.

MEASUREMENTS

Hypertension was identified by self-report of physician diagnosis or measured blood pressure (BP) of 140/90 mmHg or higher. Undiagnosed hypertension was defined as hypertensive BP measurements, but no physician diagnosis. Controlled hypertension was defined as BP lower than 140/90 mmHg among those with a physician diagnosis. Total hypertension included both diagnosed and undiagnosed hypertension. A summary cognition score, derived from the sum of 18 cognitive tests administered in the LASI-DAD (range = 0-360) was used to assess cognitive function.

RESULTS

Total hypertension prevalence was 63.2% (41.5% diagnosed and 21.6% undiagnosed). Among those with hypertension, 34.5% were undiagnosed, 34.2% were diagnosed but uncontrolled, and 31.3% were diagnosed and controlled. Neither diagnosed nor undiagnosed hypertension was related to cognitive function in fully adjusted models. Older age, female sex, less education, being widowed, rural residence, residing in the north or central regions, being in a scheduled caste or tribe, low consumption, being underweight, and history of stroke were all independently associated with worse cognitive test performance.

CONCLUSION

Two-thirds of older Indian adults had hypertension, with the majority being undiagnosed or diagnosed but not adequately controlled. Hypertension was not independently associated with cognitive function, whereas sociodemographic factors were independently related to cognitive function. J Am Geriatr Soc 68:S29-S35, 2020.

Methodological considerations in designing and implementing the harmonized diagnostic assessment of dementia for longitudinal aging study in India (LASI-DAD)

The Harmonized Diagnostic Assessment of Dementia for Longitudinal Aging Study in India (LASI-DAD) is a population-representative, prospective cohort study of late-life cognition and dementia. It is part of an ongoing international research collaboration that aims to measure and understand cognitive impairment and dementia risk by collecting a set of cognitive and neuropsychological assessments and informant reports, referred to as the Harmonized Cognitive Assessment Protocol (HCAP). LASI-DAD provides nationally representative data drawn from a subsample of the ongoing Longitudinal Aging Study in India (LASI). One of LASI-DAD's distinctive features is its rich geriatric assessment, including the collection of venous blood samples and brain imaging data for a subsample of respondents. In this paper, we discuss the methodological considerations of developing and implementing the HCAP protocol in India. The lessons we learned from translating and applying the HCAP protocol in an environment where illiteracy and innumeracy are high will provide important insights to researchers interested in measuring and collecting data on late-life cognition and dementia in developing countries. We further developed an innovative blood management system that enables us to follow the collection, transportation, assay, and storage of samples. Such innovation can benefit other population surveys collecting biomarker data.

Implementing and validating a care protocol for older adults with cancer in resource limited settings with a newly developed screening tool

BACKGROUND

Cancer in the aging population presents manifold challenges. In the resource-limited settings of developing countries, concrete steps to optimize care for older adults with cancer are required.

MATERIALS AND METHOD

This prospective, observational study was divided in two parts. In the first part, older adults (≥60 years) with a tissue diagnosis of cancer underwent a preliminary, detailed assessment of relevant geriatric domains. The patients were followed up at 4, 12 and 24 weeks, and their survival status was recorded. In the second part a newly developed screening tool, "SCreening of the Older PErson with Cancer", Version1 (SCOPE-C) was validated on patients with similar characteristics.

RESULTS

419 participants were enrolled in the study. The mean age of the participants was 66.6 ± 6.2 years, 75% had functional impairment, 35% had malnutrition, and 64% had more than one co-morbidity. The median survival time was 22 weeks from the index visit. Male gender, functional decline, cognitive impairment, malnutrition, and treatment modality were found to be independently associated with survival. Individual Scores on the SCOPE-C Version1 scale were correlated with survival status at 24 weeks, and a cutoff score of 64 had a 72.2% sensitivity and 77.3% specificity for better prognosis.

CONCLUSION

The present study is a comprehensive attempt to assess older adults with cancer with limited resources in a busy health system. A preliminary assessment with a prognostic screening tool may streamline care in resource-limited settings and aid clinicians in making treatment decisions.

HOMA-Adiponectin Closely Associates with Cardiometabolic Risk Markers in Middle-Aged Indians with Metabolic Syndrome

BACKGROUND

Unhealthy dietary habits and sedentary lifestyles have raised alarming concerns for the rising prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and associated cardiometabolic risk among Indians at an early age. Insulin resistance and adiposity are the important risk factors associated with MetS. The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between a modified marker of insulin resistance (homeostatic model assessment-adiponectin (HOMA-AD)) and cardiometabolic risk among middle-aged Indians.

METHODS

The study comprised of 144 subjects of age-group 31-50 years, where 83 subjects were diagnosed for MetS according to the guidelines given by the International Diabetes Federation. We measured cardiometabolic risk indicators such as fasting blood glucose (FPG), fasting plasma insulin (FPI), homeostatic model assessment- insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), adiponectin, high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), oxidized LDL (oxLDL), monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), and atherogenic index, among others. We calculated HOMA-AD by the formula: [FPG (mmol/l) × FPI (µIU/ml)] / [22.5 × Adiponectin (µg/ml)].

RESULTS

HOMA-IR and HOMA-AD were highly increased (p<0.001) in the MetS subjects than controls. Adiponectin was significantly (p<0.01) lower whereas cardiac risk markers such as atherogenic index, hs-CRP, oxLDL, and MCP-1 were significantly (p<0.01) elevated in MetS group than controls. Linear regression showed positive and significant associations (p<0.01) of HOMA-AD with all the cardiometabolic risk markers except MCP-1. HOMA-AD showed higher AUC (0.806) than HOMA-IR (0.791) for predicting MetS.

CONCLUSION

HOMA-AD could be a surrogate adipokine-based marker correlated significantly with components of MetS and cardiometabolic risk indicators. It appeared to be a better predictor of MetS among middle-aged Indians than HOMA-IR.

Serum 25(OH)D concentration and its association with inflammation and oxidative stress in the middle-aged Indian healthy and diabetic subjects

BACKGROUND

Vitamin D deficiency is associated with inflammation and oxidative stress. We have studied the association of 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] with markers of inflammation and oxidative stress.

METHODS

We have recruited total 180 male and female subjects aged between 30 and 50 years and divided them into two groups as control (n = 90) and T2DM (n = 90). We have measured 25(OH)D concentration, markers of inflammation including interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and markers of oxidative stress including malondialdehyde (MDA) and oxidized low-density lipoprotein (Ox-LDL) by using standard methods.

RESULTS

We stratified control and T2DM groups by 25(OH)D concentration and it indicates that in severe deficiency and sufficiency category IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α, and Ox-LDL were significantly different while in moderate deficiency category only MDA was significantly different, among control and T2DM groups. In an insufficiency category, IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α, MDA, and Ox-LDL were significantly different among control and T2DM groups. Correlation analysis indicates a negative correlation of 25(OH)D with IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α, and Ox-LDL among total subjects. Further, logistic regression analysis demonstrated a significant association of different categories of 25(OH)D with IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α, and Ox-LDL before and after adjustment to body mass index and waist to hip ratio.

CONCLUSION

This study suggest that vitamin D may have significant implications in the prevention of inflammation and oxidative stress.

Senescence-associated miR-34a and miR-126 in middle-aged Indians with type 2 diabetes

Rapid urbanization and unhealthy dietary patterns critically increase the risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D) in middle-aged Indians. However, despite recent evidence of senescence-associated microRNAs (SA-miRNAs) in regulating complex pathways of ageing, their expressions in middle-aged Indians with T2D remain unexplored. Hence we aimed to investigate the changes in expressions of SA-miRNAs miR-34a and miR-126 in middle-aged T2D patients. A total of 30 T2D patients and 30 controls were recruited of age 31-50 years. The expressions of plasma miR-34a and miR-126 were determined by quantitative PCR. Oxidized LDL (OxLDL) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The effect of different glucose concentrations on miR-34a, miR-126, senescence-associated, and oxidative stress-responsive genes were also studied in an in vitro model of mice pancreatic β-cells. MiR-34a was significantly upregulated, whereas miR-126 was nonsignificantly reduced in T2D patients as compared to controls. T2D patients showed elevated levels of oxidative stress markers than controls. Analysis of cultured mice pancreatic β-cells exposed to high glucose showed significant upregulation of miR-34a, miR-126, p53, and superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2). We found that circulating miR-34a levels and oxidative stress markers levels were elevated in the middle-aged Indians with T2D as compared to controls. The presence of diabetes may aggravate the normal ageing process in the middle-aged Indians. These SA-miRNAs can also be used to check the cellular dysfunctions and ageing of pancreatic β-cells.

Middle-Aged Indians with Type 2 Diabetes Are at Higher Risk of Biological Ageing with Special Reference to Serum CDKN2A

Sedentary lifestyle and high visceral adiposity have elevated the risk of type 2 diabetes (T2DM) among Indians at younger age. In this study, we aimed to investigate the association of oxidative stress and chronic inflammatory mediators with ageing with special reference to the biological ageing marker cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 2A (CDKN2A) among middle-aged (31-50 years) Indian healthy and T2DM subjects. Malondialdehyde (MDA), oxidized LDL (oxLDL), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin 1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), and CDKN2A were measured in T2DM patients (n = 80) and controls (n = 80) aged 31-50 years, further grouped into G1: 31-40 years and G2: 41-50 years. IL-6, TNF-α, MCP-1, and CDKN2A showed a significant association with ageing among both T2DM patients and controls. But the strength of the association of MCP-1 and CKDN2A with ageing was significantly stronger in T2DM patients than the controls. All the oxidative stress and proinflammatory mediators showed nonsignificant associations with CDKN2A in the controls. However, IL-6, TNF-α, and MCP-1 showed a strong association with CDKN2A in T2DM patients. An increased risk of high levels of CDKN2A was found in G1 T2DM patients (OR: 3.484 (95% CI: 1.246-9.747) p = 0.017) and G2 T2DM patients (OR: 5.000 (95% CI: 1.914-13.061), p = 0.001) with reference to the respective control groups. Our study reveals that the middle-aged Indians with T2DM are at higher risk of biological ageing. The development of T2DM is more common among middle-aged Indians. T2DM may exacerbate the ageing process and may subsequently predispose Indians to various age-related complications at a much early age.

LASI-DAD study: a protocol for a prospective cohort study of late-life cognition and dementia in India

INTRODUCTION

Alzheimer's disease and related dementias can be considered the epidemic of the 21st century. Particularly, the predicted growth in the size of elderly populations in low-income and middle-income countries is expected to produce a dramatic surge in dementia prevalence and incidence. Although a rising burden of dementia presents an urgent challenge for India, previous efforts to study dementia in the country have relied on non-representative samples in geographically restricted regions. The Harmonised Diagnostic Assessment of Dementia for the Longitudinal Aging Study in India (LASI-DAD) will provide rich, population-representative data on late-life cognition and dementia and their risk factors for the first time in India.

METHODS

The LASI-DAD will recruit a sample of 3000 people aged 60+ years. Their family members or friends, whom respondents nominate as informants, participate in the computer-assisted personal interview. The study sample is drawn from the ongoing, nationally representative Longitudinal Aging Study in India, a multipurpose panel survey of aging. We aim to collect rich data on cognitive and neuropsychological tests, informant reports, and epidemiological data through a comprehensive geriatric assessment, and venous blood collection and assays. For a subsample, we collect neuroimaging data. Data collection is currently in progress in 14 States and Union Territories of India. Clinicians will provide clinical consensus diagnosis based on the Clinical Dementia Rating.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Ethics approval was obtained from the Indian Council of Medical Research and all collaborating institutions. Anonymised data will be available for the larger research community through a secured website hosted by the Gateway to Global Aging Data platform. Research findings from the LASI-DAD team will be disseminated through journal publications and presentations at professional conferences.

Beyond LDL-c: The importance of serum oxidized LDL in predicting risk for type 2 diabetes in the middle-aged Asian Indians

AIMS

Oxidized low-density lipoprotein (OxLDL) as the residual lipid plays a crucial role in cardiovascular complications and type 2 diabetes. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship of OxLDL with the conventional risk markers and to find the association of OxLDL with the risk of development of type 2 diabetes in middle-aged (30-50 years) Asian Indians.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 78 type 2 diabetes patients and 78 age-matched controls were recruited. The serum OxLDL concentration was assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Other anthropometric and biochemical measures were also carried out. Multiple logistic regression was used to determine the association of OxLDL and OxLDL to non-oxidized lipoproteins with the occurrence of type 2 diabetes.

RESULTS

OxLDL was significantly higher in type 2 diabetes cases than controls (p < 0.001) even though there was no significant difference in LDL cholesterol (LDL-c) between type 2 diabetes patients and controls. OxLDL correlated significantly with fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). OxLDL did not show any significant correlation with LDL-c. Multiple logistic regression showed a significant association of OxLDL, OxLDL/LDL-c and OxLDL/HDL-c with type 2 diabetes (p < 0.001). LDL-c showed no association with type 2 diabetes. ROC-AUC curve analyses showed OxLDL/HDL-c to have highest discriminatory power for type 2 diabetes (AUC: 0.710 with 95% CI: 0.629-0.791, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Our findings highlight the possibly more attention has to be given to OxLDL for managing lipids and diabetes progression as well as reducing cardiac risk in middle-aged type 2 diabetes patients.