Search results for “India”

Relationship Between Household Economic Status and Childhood Micronutrient Deficiency in India: An Evidence from a National Level Representative Survey

The high prevalence of anemia among children and adolescents in India is still an overwhelming problem. Not only that, there is also a considerable deficiency of various micronutrients such as Vitamin A, Vitamin B12, Vitamin D, serum ferritin, Zinc and Folate etc. in children. These micronutrients have several functional roles for the normal growth and development of children. Unfortunately, recent studies on public health and nutrition intervention have so far focused less on these micronutrition and more on anemia and nutrition. Data for this study obtained from the Comprehensive National Nutrition Survey (CNNS 2016-18), a nationally representative survey covering different age group. Specifically, it includes information on 9767 children aged 1-4 years. Out of these surveyed children biomarker data for hemoglobin, serum ferritin, zinc, folate, vitamin A, vitamin B12 and Vitamin D were collected from 8242 children. Micronutrient deficiencies were identified based on WHO and other established cut-off criteria. Wealth quintiles were computed to identify household economic inequality. The prevalence of anemia at the national level was 40.7%. Among micronutrients, folate (22.9%) and zinc (18.7%) deficiencies were most commonly observed, followed by vitamins A (18.3), vitamin B12 (13.8%) and vitamin D (14.0%). Iron deficiency as measured by ferritin was present in 31.6% of children. It is alarming that nearly one in three children (32.8%) suffer from deficiencies in two or more micronutrients. Clear socioeconomic disparities were observed for all micronutrient deficiencies (MND); children in the poorest groups had significantly higher levels of micronutrient deficiencies than children in the richest groups. Among the states, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh had the highest overall micronutrient deficiencies, while West Bengal and Kerala had the lowest. This clearly shows that a large proportion of preschool children in India suffer from anemia and MND, with the prevalence being even more alarming in lower socio-economic settings. This study suggests that there is a need to move beyond single-nutrient interventions and implement comprehensive, multi-micronutrient supplementation or food fortification strategies seamlessly into the existing national health and nutrition programs.

HIV-Associated Peripheral Neuropathy and Antiretroviral Therapy: A Prospective Study from a Tertiary Care Centre in South India

Background Peripheral neuropathy (PN) is a common and debilitating complication in people living with HIV (PLHIV). While HIV itself contributes to neuropathy, certain antiretroviral therapy (ART) drugs, particularly nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) such as stavudine (d4T) and zidovudine (AZT), are known for their neurotoxic effects. Objectives To evaluate the impact of ART on HIV-associated peripheral neuropathy (HIV-PN) and to determine whether certain ART regimens increase the risk or severity of neuropathy. Materials and Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among 158 HIV-positive patients. Neuropathy was diagnosed using clinical criteria, Total Neuropathy Score (TNS), and nerve conduction studies (NCS). Patients were grouped based on their ART regimen, and statistical analysis was performed to assess the association between ART type and peripheral neuropathy severity. Results It was noted that patients on older NRTIs (stavudine, zidovudine) had significantly higher rates of peripheral neuropathy (p=0.002) and tenofovir-based regimens were associated with lower peripheral neuropathy prevalence (p=0.01). There was a significant correlation between the duration of ART exposure and peripheral neuropathy severity (p<0.001), suggesting a cumulative neurotoxic effect. Conclusion Older ART regimens, particularly stavudine and zidovudine, significantly contribute to HIV-PN. The study supports the WHO recommendation to phase out neurotoxic ART and highlights the importance of early ART regimen optimisation to prevent long-term neurological complications.

RETRACTED: Association of Body Mass Index (BMI) and Severity of COVID- 19: A Multicentric Study from Maharashtra, India

This article has been retracted on 30 August 2025. VIEW THE RETRACTION NOTICE (https://doi.org/10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-25-5842) Objective The COVID-19 pandemic has led to the global research efforts to identify the risk factors which would lead to severe COVID-19 disease. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and severity of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Methods A total of 2820 patients hospitalized with COVID-19 disease in nine Government Medical Colleges, COVID hospitals or COVID care centers of Maharashtra were included in the study. Interviews were conducted on the telephone and counselling was done. Results Among 2820, 2442 (86.60%) were asymptomatic or had a mild or moderate illness. More than half of the total COVID- 19 positive cases, 1591 (56.41%), were in the normal BMI range, and of these only 183 (11.50%) had severe COVID-19 disease. On the other hand, 647 (22.94%) patients were overweight and 106 (16.38%) had Severe COVID- 19 disease. Similarly, the patients who were obese, 363 (84.03%) were asymptomatic and 69 (15.97%) had severe COVID- 19 disease. Odds ratio for this association was found as 1.5, which indicates that patients who were obese (BMI ≥ 27.5) had one and half times increased odds of progression to severity as compared to patients having normal BMI. This association was found to be statistically significant (p- value < 0.05). Conclusion Our findings highlight the significant role of BMI in clinical progression of COVID-19 disease. Patients with underweight and obesity experienced more severe outcomes than those of normal weight when being hospitalized with COVID-19 disease.

Retraction Note: Association of Body Mass Index (BMI) and Severity of COVID- 19: A Multicentric Study from Maharashtra, India

Assessing the risk of Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus patients in India

Background/Aim Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a prevalent disorder characterized by recurrent respiratory disturbances during sleep. Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) and obesity exhibit a substantial susceptibility to OSA (23%–86%). People with OSA have a high risk of several comorbidities like insulin resistance, cardiovascular disease, depressed mood and hypertension. Thus, the objective was to comprehensively evaluate the risk of OSA among T2DM patients in India. Materials and Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted across four cities in India involving 2,000 T2DM patients. The survey gathered data on patient demographics, clinical endpoints, and estimated the risk of OSA using an app which included the STOP BANG questionnaire. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the association between OSA risk and key variables such as age, gender, BMI, and HbA1c. Result Overall, 63.9% of T2DM patients were identified as high risk and 27.3% were at intermediate risk for OSA development. Results of the multivariate logistic regression demonstrated that patients with high BMI ≥35 had significantly greater odds (OR: 5.70; p<0.00) of developing OSA; males had 2.75 times higher odds (p<0.00) and patients with HbA1c value >8% had higher odds (OR: 1.22; p<0.00) of developing OSA. Conclusion OSA risk and prevalence are significantly higher in T2DM patients than in the general population with a notable escalation in patients who are overweight/obese, older, and have prolonged diabetes duration. Early screening using digitalization with a highly sensitive, cost-efficient, and valid tool like STOP-BANG followed by appropriate intervention for OSA can not only reduce the eventual economic burden but can improve patient outcomes.

Morphological Variations and Morphometric Analysis of Foramen Ovale in South Indian Population

Introduction The foramen ovale is located in the area where intracranial and extracranial structures meet. Procedures involving trigeminal neuralgia and mandibular nerve anaesthesia require an understanding of the foramen ovale's morphometry and anatomy. Our present study was conducted to define mean values and anatomical variations in foramen ovale. Aims 1. To establish the mean length, breadth and the Area of the foramen ovale. 2. And also to study different shapes and special features of the foramen ovale. 3. To compare the values of the present author with the previous studies. Methodology The study was carried out on100 foramen ovale using 50 dry adult human skull bones of unknown sex. Maximum transverse diameter, antero-posterior diameters of the foramen were measured with the help of vernier calipers. and the different shapes of foramen were noted. The data was analysed by using unpaired T test. Results The mean anteroposterior diameter on left side was 6.59±1.37 mm and on right side was 6.99±1.44 mm. The mean transverse diameter on the left is 4.09±0.74 mm and 4.17±0.76 mm on the right side. Incidences of various shapes of the foramen ovale were oval 70%, almond 11%, round 9%, elongated 6%, pear shaped 2 % and irregular 2%. Conclusions The findings from the current study may be useful for understanding the variations of these foramina for interventions in middle cranial fossa.

Effect of Protein and Energy-Dense Nutritional Supplement with Immunonutrients on Cachexia in Cancer Patients: An Open-Label, Single-Arm Study Among Indian Patients

Background Cachexia is highly prevalent in cancer patients and is responsible for as much as 20% of all cancer deaths. Nevertheless, there is little emphasis on cachexia in routine clinical practice. This study looks at the efficacy and tolerability of a protein and energy-dense nutritional supplement with immunonutrients on cachexia in cancer patients. Methods This was a three-month, prospective, open-label study of patients undergoing radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy for head and neck or gastrointestinal or lung cancer. Efficacy endpoints were mean change in muscle strength, acute phase proteins (albumin and pre-albumin), C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, weight, Glasgow prognostic score (GPS), and nutritional status at the end of the study period. Results The study population consists of 47 (79.66%) males and 12 (20.34%) females with a mean age of 47.98 ± 12.16 years. The mean change in muscle strength, albumin, pre-albumin, CRP levels, and weight for the overall study population was 0.17 ± 12.09 kg (P=0.9145), -0.05 ± 0.53 g/dl, (P=0.5888), -0.01 ± 0.09 g/dl (P=0.2951), 0.50 ± 37.41 mg/dl (P=0.9258), -0.59 ± 3.70 kg (P=0.2265), respectively. At the end of the study period, there was a significant improvement in the nutritional status concerning total calories, protein, and fat intake. Conclusion Protein and energy-dense nutritional supplement with immunonutrients might help in the improvement of muscle strength, GPS, and dietary intake. The addition of the supplement to the diet regime of patients with cancer cachexia increases their daily consumption of proteins which might translate to multimodal clinical benefits.

Indian Agriculture needs a Strategic Shift for Improving Fertilizer Response and Overcome Sluggish Foodgrain Production

In India, loss of fertility through soil erosion is primarily a summer monsoons mediated phenomenon. Reversing the land degradation processes contribute to water availability, soil fertility maintenance, adapting to climate change and overall food security. Whereas kharif (monsoon/rainy season crop) foodgrain production largely depends on summer monsoons, the rabi season (post-rainy season/winter crop) rainfall is too little to exert a direct influence. In spite of larger acreage under kharif foodgrain crops, total fertiliser consumption during kharif and rabi seasons is comparable. Negative rainfall anomalies (deficit) adversely affected total fertiliser consumption and their use efficiency. Despite significant differences in fertiliser application rates, the response to applied fertiliser nutrients is almost similar in the two seasons. This implies that nutrient use efficiency (NUE) has a ‘manageable’ and an ‘unmanageable’ component wherein 4R practices are difficult to implement under unfavourable kharif weather conditions. Partial factor productivity of fertilizer nutrients (PFPF) has continuously declined over decades mainly because of depletion of soil organic carbon, imbalanced use of nutrients and inability to maintain soil moisture supplies. These observations plus yield-gap analysis permitted us to conclude that past trends of declining NUE can only be reversed through a shift either in sustainable land management practices or enhancing the genetic yield potential/ biomass of crop cultivars or by combining both and making kharif crop planting independent of monsoons rains through direct dry seeding.

Mucormycosis: A Surge in Mucorales Fungal Infection in Post – Covid Patients in Indian States and Insight into Known and Unknown Factors

Prevalence and Risk Factors of Metabolic Syndrome Among Teaching Staff of Engineering Colleges in Central India

Background Prevalence of Metabolic syndrome is high among Asians including Indians, and is high among those having sedentary occupations. Teaching is one of the important occupations, which demands no strenuous physical activity. However, there is little information available about the prevalence of metabolic syndrome among teaching staff of engineering college. Hence, the present study was conducted to study its prevalence, certain risk factors and co-morbidities among teaching staff of engineering institutes. Methods Teachers from engineering colleges of Nagpur city were the study subjects. Data was collected by interview technique. Clinical examination and laboratory investigations like Fasting blood glucose, High Density Lipoproteins and Serum Triglycerides were done. National Cholesterol Evaluation Programme (NCEP) Adult Treatment Panel Three (ATPIII) criteria were used to study Metabolic syndrome. Blood pressure and anthropometric measurements like height, weight and waist circumference were obtained by standard methods. Results The prevalence of metabolic syndrome was found to be 20.5%. It was 25.32% in females and 19.31% in males. It was more common in subjects of higher age group, muslim religion, and among widows and separated. Alcohol consumption, smoking and sedentary life style was found to be significantly associated with presence of metabolic syndrome. Frozen shoulder, fungal infection and stroke were common co morbidities found among subjects having metabolic syndrome.

Restriction of Antimicrobial Usage in a Tertiary Care Neonatal Unit in South India: A Before After Trial

Background Overuse and abuse of antibiotics resulted in emergence of multidrug-resistant organisms (MDRO), increased rates of invasive candidiasis, prolonged hospital stay, NEC (Necrotizing enterocolitis), LOS (Late onset sepsis) or death. Restriction of the prescription, switching to a narrower spectrum and stopping antibiotics when not needed are some of the major approaches to antibiotic stewardship. Methods We identified restricted antimicrobials and devised an antimicrobial justification form. Clinicians needed to fill the form before prescribing restricted antimicrobials thereby comparing the antimicrobial usage pattern before and after the introduction of form. Babies enrolled before the introduction of the justification form were labelled as Group 1, and as Group 2 after justification form. The HIC (hospital infection control) staff nurse paid daily visits to NICU to monitor number of babies started on restricted antibiotics and whether the forms were duly filled or not. Any lag would be intimated to the Head HIC team for rectification. Any change of antibiotic within the restricted group also warranted justification. Culture report notified within 48 – 72 hrs so as to facilitate the stoppage of antibiotics in case of negative culture. Results There was a statistically significant reduction in the usage of restricted antimicrobials in the Group B as compared to Group A 150 (40.54%) vs 190 (49.35%) (p = 0.01). There was a statistically significant increase in the % of babies de-escalated from high end antimicrobials in Group B as compared to Group A 90 (60%) vs 56 (29.47%) (p = <0.0001). Duration of restricted antimicrobials reduced from 13.78 ± 2.7 days in Group A to 9.9 ±1.8 days in Group B (p = <0.0001). No difference in the number of babies started on any antibiotic between both the groups (p = 0.1). Conclusion Introduction of the antibiotic justification form as a part of antimicrobial stewardship program resulted in an overall reduced usage of restricted antimicrobials along with rapid de-escalation.

Impact of Environmental Sanitation and Hygienic Practices on Nutritional Status of Lodha Women and Children of West Bengal, India

Aim To assess the sanitation and hygienic practices of women and its effects on the nutritional status of the mother and preschool children of the Lodha tribal community in two districts of West Bengal. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted during November, 2014 - December, 2018 of 941 Lodha mothers and 1043 of their preschool children in Paschim Medinipur and Jhargram districts. All information was collected by using KAP questionnaire following interview and group discussion. Mother nutritional status was assessed based on body mass index (BMI) and mid upper arm circumference (MUAC). A child was classified as underweight, stunting and wasting as weight-for-age, height-for-age and weight-of -height Z-score below -2 standard deviation of WHO standard. Results This study found 35% of the households used safe drinking water. Almost 97.2% of the mother had the low hand wash score and about 67.1% of them had an average WaSH score. Overall, 41.6% and 1.6% mothers were suffered from undernutrition (BMI <18.5 kg/m2) and overweight/obesity (BMI≥25kg/m2). Whereas, 48.9% women were undernourished based on MUAC<22.0cm. Moreover, the overall prevalence of wasting, stunting and underweight of preschool children was 31.9%, 62.1% and 61.3%, respectively. The WaSH score of family was significantly associated with child stunted and underweight. Conclusion There is a good association between poor household WaSH practices with child undernutrition and morbidity. Hence, there is an urgent need to develop the comprehensive knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) guidelines in their language to educate them about appropriate water storage, retrieval methods, sanitation and hand washing practices.

Sustainable Municipal Solid Waste Management - A case study of Kanpur, India

Municipal solid waste generation and disposal is a problem not only in India but all over the world. Presently majority of such waste is being dumped indiscriminately over vacant lands causing problems of odor, methane generation leading to air pollution, leaching effect polluting ground water and runoff polluting water bodies. Technological options are available to treat this solid waste and convert it into usable products but the biggest problem is its segregation preferably at the source of generation or even at the disposal area. Municipal solid waste generated in India consists of 15 percent non biodegradable which has high calorific contents and can be converted into power generation. Remaining 85 percent is degradable which can either be converted into compost or bio fuels. Under the present context, sustainable municipal waste management strategy needs to be evolved and put in place with effective implementation to address the issue of environmental pollution. An attempt has therefore been made by the authors of the present paper to take up a case study of Kanpur, India for managing such wastes having sustainable approach. The authors have worked out trends of population starting from the year 1951 and projected to 2051. Similarly waste generation trends established on the lines of population. An effort has also been made as to how much compost, bio fuel and power can be generated along with economic value to make it sustainable on a time scale.

The Prevalence of Osteoporosis in Hiv Infected Patient and its Correlation with Cd4 Count/Clinical Staging in Indian Population

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a retroviral disease in which the viruses copy their genetic material into the genetic material of the human beings. Infected cells remain infected for the whole of their life. First discovered in the year 1981, Human immunodeficiency virus infections is considered to be a pandemic by the World Health organization.

Artificial Neural Network Model for Rainfall Data Analysis During 2004-2017 in Tamil Nadu, India – Prevailing Pattern Evaluation on Climate Change

This research paper focuses on rainfall variations in Tamil Nadu, India using Wavelet, Linear regression and Artificial Neural Networks model from 2004 to 2017. As the rainfall is the key factor in understanding climate change, the seasonal datasets from 2004-2017 of Tamil Nadu state has been taken for study. The salient feature of this study is the application of Neural Networks and wavelet analysis. It reveals that the rainfall variations are ambiguous that it does not maintain a constant pattern. Wavelet coefficients of multiresolution spectrogram reveals that the intensity of rainfall in each year. Linear regression model divulge the pattern of rainfall followed in every season and the results show that except winter season all other season suffers deficient rainfall. The deficiency of rainfall may be due to different parameters like ElNino or LaNina pattern or global warming. Results showed that all seasons except winter does not maintain consistency in the rainfall variability. Winter season provides the positive slope values of 4.7 and 0.6 for January and February respectively. Moreover Artificial Neural Networks training provides prominent results of Regression value 0.98 which is comparably high with other seasons taken for study.

How do College Students in India Respond to Gender-Based Violence (GBV)?

Rates of gender-based violence remain high during college in India, a time of adolescent malleability where gender norms, gender perspectives, and responses to violence are open to change. Few gender-based violence interventions focus on college students and even fewer on bystander intervention as a preventative approach - a concept novel to India. This cross-sectional study reached 603 college students in India to examine current gender norms and perspectives, bystander intervention behaviours, and discussion of gender-based violence on campuses. Statistically significant differences were found between male and female college students in all scenarios of bystander intervention response and frequency of discussion of gender-based violence. Multinomial logistic regression analysis showed significant differences in those who had never seen violence or had a positive bystander intervention response, compared to those who responded negatively. Given the findings, targeting college students appears a promising approach to change the narrative of gender-based violence and norms in India.

Emotional Intelligence of Medical Post Graduate Students from Central India: A Cross Sectional Study

Background Emotionally intelligent doctors are better able to perceive the need of the patient. In today’s world, where patient satisfaction is one of the most important criteria for a successful medical practice, emotional intelligence of doctors plays a vital role. Objectives To study emotional intelligence of post graduate medical students. Methods It is a cross-sectional study conducted in Government Medical College and Hospital, Nagpur during January- February 2019. The study participants were one hundred first - year post graduate students. Data collection was done using quick emotional intelligence self administered questionnaire. Data was entered in Microsoft office excels and analyzed with the help of epi info. Results In the present study total 100 post graduate students were assessed of which 56% were male. Emotional awareness and emotional management was better in male post graduate students in comparison with the females and the difference was found to be statistically significantly. The scores of the other two domains were almost equal in both. More than half of the study participants had a satisfactory EI score i.e. 25-34. Conclusion Male post graduate students had better EI. Most of the study participants had a satisfactory EI score.

An Anatomical Study of the Tibia in the North Indian Population

Introduction The human tibia is a complex anatomical unit and the knowledge of its morphometric values is important in Forensic, Anatomic and Radiological cases in order to identify unknown bodies and stature. Objective It was to analyze the tibia, its morphometry, side difference and to investigate the position of nutrient foramina in tibia. Methods In this study, 60 adult human tibias (30 right and 30 left) were obtained from the Department of Anatomy SMSR SHARDA UNIVERSITY. In the study a total of two parameters i.e. Cross Section Index in the middle and Cnemicus Index of the bones were obtained and evaluated by using two instruments- a Measuring Tape and a Vernier Calipers. All the bones were dry and showed normal anatomical features. Results The mean Cross Section Index in the middle was calculated as 80.42 ± 11.33 on the right side and 78.15± 12.78 on the left side; and the Cnemicus index was 78.40 ± 13.19 on the right side and 70.84 ± 11.38 on the left side Conclusion The two parameters in the North Indian population were compared with other populations. The values were found to be almost comparable however there were subtle differences between different populations. The position of nutrient foramen was also assessed. This knowledge will thus help further researchers and orthopedic surgeons in various procedures like joint replacement therapy, fracture repair, bone grafts and vascularized bone microsurgery as well as in medico‐legal cases.

Climate Change-Land Degradation-Food Security Nexus: Addressing India’s Challenge

Monsoon rains provide relief from the sweltering summer heat conditions, replenish depleted profile moisture to breathe new life in soils. With appropriate management of rain water, Indian summer monsoons boost the level of ‘reservoir of life’. Our inability to manage spatial and temporal rainfall variation features of deficit and excess rainfall episodes and their interactions with soil variability is a major cause of uncertainty in agricultural production. In the past, entire focus of national efforts was on rainwater harvesting, storage and distribution through canal networks and greater reliance on ground water pumping to meet immediate crop water demands. These approaches have resulted in wide spread problems of natural resource fatigue and unsustainable water supplies. This paper analyses the complexities of climate change-land degradation-food security nexus and suggests the need for adopting alternate approaches emphasising on in situ conservation of rain water and its efficient use such as to reverse the processes that contribute to land degradation in specific landscapes.

Adolescents’ Perceptions of Gender Discrimination in India: Do Perceptions Differ for Boys and Girls?

Despite the gains India has made in recent decades, it remains a country with vast gender inequities. Gender sensitization and empowerment programs aimed at young people, precisely at the time when they are forming their gender attitudes, has the potential to diminish gender inequity in the long-term. This study represents data from 36 qualitative in-depth interviews conducted amongst adolescent boys and girls enrolled in grade 7 in northern India, in schools that serve under-resourced communities. The interviews asked questions related to positive youth development, gender roles, violence, and locus of control. The results of the qualitative analysis provide insights into how adolescents perceive gender discrimination in their families and communnites. The majority of expectations for boys revolved around physical labor, while, for girls, gender roles were primarily focused on stopping education early to get married and take care of the household and children. Many of the responses from both boys and girls on privileges/restrictions were related to daughters not being fully educated while sons often were. Furthermore, when comparing between boys and girls (attributes) and understanding superiority, many participants noted there is a clear preference of boys compared to girls. Girls also had higher proportion of violence codes compared to boys, perhaps because many girls felt they were hit more frequently than boys. The results of this qualitative analysis provide direction for both future research as well as the development of gender sensitization interventions specifically designed for adolescents.

Characterization of rpoB Gene Mutations Associated with Rifampicin Resistance in Multidrug Resistant Tuberculosis Patients Co-infected with HIV from Southern India.

Co-infection of HIV with Mycobacterium tuberculosis is a common event, particularly in developing countries. The emergence and spread of multidrug resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) is an increasing public problem in India. The drug-resistant M. tuberculosis strains are posing a significant challenge to TB control. This study used PCR to characterize mutations inside the rifampicin resistance-determining region (RRDR) of the rpoB gene in the rifampicin-resistant M. tuberculosis co-infected with HIV. All the rifampicin-resistant strains had missense mutations. Sequence analysis detected a single or multiple hotspot mutations in the RRDR region of the rpoB gene at codons 516, 512 and 531, in most strains. Furthermore, mutations also occur at codons 512, 514, 517 and 526. The results suggest that hotspot mutations in the rpoB gene are not the sole contributors to MDR-TB co-infected with HIV.

Concordance of Stress Among Married Couples in Urban Area of Nagpur, Maharashtra, India

Background Concordance or husband wife agreement on various factors like sleep, substance use, dietary supplement use, and diseases like obesity and hypertension has been extensively studied worldwide. But the data regarding concordance of stress among married couples in India is lacking. Objective The prime objective of this study was to find out proportion of concordance of stress among married couples in Nagpur, Central India. Methods This was a community based cross sectional study conducted in an urban area of Nagpur. 260 couples in whom both husband and wife were of the age 30 years or more were included. Stress among couples was assessed by Presumptive stressful life events scale (PSLES). Results 82.3% concordance of stress was observed. Getting married, birth of daughter, death of close family member, illness of family member, gain of new family member and going on pleasure trip or pilgrimage were most common events reported by both spouses. Pregnancy of wife was the most common event reported by husbands. Four husbands reported death of spouse as a life event. None of the spouses reported extra marital relation of spouse and conflict over dowry as life time events. Conclusions Concordance of stress was very high among couples. This suggests role of shared marital environmental factors, which could affect stress concordance among couples.

Resource Management Domains of Kharif and Rabi Season Fallows in Central Plateau Region of India: A Strategy for Accelerated Agricultural Development

Over last few decades, acreage of total fallow lands (Kharif and Rabi seasons) in India has remained almost unchanged around 25Mha. The acreage of Kharif (summer) and Rabi (winter) Fallows in Madhya Pradesh (MP) are 1.98Mha and 5.51Mha, respectively. In the semi-arid agroclimatic zones of the states, Fallow-Wheat/Gram/Indian-Mustard cropping systems are practiced. After harvest of Kharif rice, kodo-kutki, maize or sorghum, farmers generally practice post-rainy season Rabi fallows in the sub-humid regions, south of Narmada River. Kharif fallowing is largely the result of the inability of the farmers to make planting dates independent of monsoon forecasts, and make efficient use of rain water. It appears that factors responsible for Kharif and Rabi fallows are distinctly different and a general consequence of distinctly different soil moisture regimes prevailing in the two crop seasons. Kharif and Rabi fallows have two distinct resource management domains. Whereas, Kharif fallows can be tackled with “PMP-dry seeding” agronomy, production constraints of Rabi fallows can be substantively tackled by shifting from tilled to zero-till agriculture with residue management to make efficient use of the conserved rain water. Some irrigation support will prove useful to tackle mid-season droughts in both situations. Conservation agricultural practices can significantly improve and stabilize crop yields in black soils and other associated soils of in the semi-arid tropics region of the Central India.

Correlation of Human Height with Hand Dimensions: A Study in Young Population of Central India

Background and Objective Identification of sex, age, race and stature is the most important aspect of any forensic investigation. There is a strong correlation of stature with hand dimensions and if either of the measurements is known, the other can be calculated. With this objective, the present study was designed to correlate the hand dimensions with stature of an individual and to record the standard deviation in the estimation of stature. Methodology This cross-sectional study was conducted amongst 1000 participants (500 male and 500 female) of ESIC Institute Gulbarga over a period of 14 months. Hand dimensions along with stature and weight were measured. Linear regression coefficient was calculated. Results Mean stature was 161.88 cm. Mean hand length was 18.11 cm on right side and 18.10 cm on left side. Mean hand breadth was 9.91 cm on right side and 9.83 cm on left side. Conclusion Highly significant difference in right and left side mean hand length and breadth measurements was observed. Also observed was a strong positive statistically significant correlation between height and hand dimensions. This data might be useful for forensic, epidemiological and anthropometric studies where stature determination is of utmost importance.

Serum Vitamin D Level in Oral Lichen Planus Patients of North India- A Case-Control Study.

Background: Studies have unveiled lower levels of serum vitamin D in autoimmune diseases and the role of vitamin D in inhibition of helper T cells proliferation, stimulation of regulatory T cells, diminishing of B-lymphocyte differentiation and inhibition of immunoglobulin secretion has been discussed in the literature. Oral lichen planus (OLP) is an autoimmune mucocutaneous disorder in which cell mediated immunity plays an important part and so it may also be related to serum vitamin D levels. Aim: To estimate serum vitamin D in oral lichen planus patients of North India, compare it to the controls and to evaluate various factors influencing vitamin D level in OLP cases such as sun exposure, gender, psychosocial factors, meteorological influences, religion and diet. Methods and Material: Venous blood samples of 102 clinically diagnosed oral lichen planus patients and 102 age and sex matched controls were obtained for the study and serum vitamin D levels were estimated using Vitek Immunodiagnostic Assay System, an automated bench-top immuno-analyzer, based on the Enzyme Linked Fluorescent Assay. The data was analyzed using chi-squared test and t-test. Results: Mean vitamin D in OLP cases and controls was 20.40 ng/ml and 32.67 ng/ml respectively. Vitamin D3 deficiency was more in OLP cases (70.6%) as compared to controls (34.3%) and insufficiency was more in controls (35.3%) as compared to OLP cases (16.7%). These differences were statistically significant. Conclusion: Although vitamin D deficiency was found more in OLP cases pointing towards the possible co-relation of vitamin D and OLP, yet insufficiency was seen more commonly in controls which revealed that this important vitamin was lacking in North Indian population. 

Performance Assessment of Some Operational Aspects of Revised National Tuberculosis Control Programme in Tuberculosis Unit, Nagpur, India

Background : DOTS is the current international strategy for tuberculosis control endorsed by the World Health Organization and the International Union against Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases. Maharashtra achieved full coverage under RNTCP in October 2003. The programme was launched in Nagpur in the last quarter of 2002. Three years after its launch, it is the ideal time to assess the performance of programme to identify the operational challenges. Methods: This is a cross sectional study carried out in 'Sadar Tuberculosis Unit' of Nagpur Municipal Corporation with the objective to study performance of some aspects of RNTCP. Programme performance was explored through laboratory records review and non participant observations of all four designated microscopy centres. DOT centres were observed for accessibility, identifiability and the facilities provided to patients visiting for treatment. Performance of some operational aspects of RNTCP was assessed using standards, norms, procedures etc described in programme guidelines. Results: It was observed that the TB unit was manned with RNTCP- trained supervisory team. Three of four microscopy centres were established in multispecialty health facilities. Adequate space for sputum microscopy was available at two centres. Laboratory technician was available at three centres. Separate tables for smearing and staining were available at three centres. Sink, staining racks, spirit lamp, binocular microscope and drugs in patient - wise boxes were available in all four centres. Laboratory registers were completely and correctly filled in all centres. No false positive or false negative error was found in rereading of AFB smears. Conclusions: It is concluded that the performance of the programme at the unit is satisfactory. Still some aspects of the programme components need to be strengthened at microscopy centres for better performance of RNTCP.

Diet and Nutritional Status of the Older Adults in Rural India

Objectives: World has witnessed a considerable increase in the proportion of elderly population.Aging is associated with decreased physical activity and metabolism and thereby the changes in the nutritional requirements of older adults.The objective of this communication was to assess the nutritional status of rural elderly population in India. Methodology: A community based cross-sectional study; adopting multistage stratified random sampling procedure was carried out by the National Nutrition Monitoring Bureau (NNMB), during 2005-06 among the rural population of nine major states of India. A total of 3871 older adults were covered for anthropometry and of them, a total of 2138 older adults were covered for dietary assessment. Key Results: In general, the consumption of all the foods was below recommended daily intakes (RDI), and the in-adequacy (<70% of RDI) of intake was high with respect to leafy vegetables, milk & milk products, fats & oils and sugar & jaggery. Similarly, the in-adequacy of intakes of micronutrients such as vitamin A, iron, riboflavin and free folic acid was high among both genders. The poor intake of diet was reflected in high prevalence of chronic energy deficiency (CED) among the rural elderly in India. Conclusions: In general,the rural elderly were subsisting on inadequate diets in terms of both quantity and quality. Similarly, the prevalence of CED among elderly is a ‘‘very high’’ public health nutrition problem in India. Therefore, the Government of India should initiate appropriate nutrition intervention measures to improve the overall nutritional status and special nutrition policies to address the health and nutritional problems of the aging population.

A study on the association of ACE i/D gene polymorphism, Obesity, Blood pressure and susceptibility of type 2 diabetes mellitus among the Kurmis of West Bengal, India.

Earlier studies reported significant association of obesity, hypertension and Type2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). Genetic and many disease-associated alleles have been identified through GWAS and applied to T2DM and indicated roles of renin-angiotensin system (RAS) in insulin signaling pathway and insulin resistance has been well documented. Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) gene catalyzes the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II and also inactive the vasodilatation and hence renin-angiotensin system (RAS) in insulin signaling pathway and insulin resistance has been reported. To best of the knowledge we are reporting for the first time regarding association of ACE gene polymorphism with body composition, physiological and metabolic variables among any endogamous ethnic group (Kurmis) from of West Bengal, Eastern India. To achieve the purpose, total 197 (male 99 and female 98) randomly selected apparently healthy unrelated adult individuals of Kurmi population of Purulia District, West Bengal, India were incorporated in the present study. Anthropometric variables, physiological variables (blood pressure) and metabolic variables (PP blood sugar) have been collected using standard techniques. Extracted genomic DNA was PCR amplified and genotyped to understand ACE gene I/D polymorphism. The result demonstrated significant (p<0.05) sexual dimorphism in PBF. MAP and PP blood sugar found to be in normal range among the Kurmis. ACE gene polymorphism showed no deletion of the Kurmis and hence, only the prevalence of ACE II (insertion-Insertion) genotype has been noticed. The present study vindicated on the basis of body composition in terms of fat patterning, physiological and metabolic variables and ACE gene polymorphism that there is very low or no risk of T2DM among the Kurmis of West Bengal, India.

A High Volume, User-Friendly Immunization Clinic in Vellore, India: A Model for Urban Hospitals

The Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) in India delivers vaccines under its policy, through government hospitals, health centers and outreach clinics. However, the national average full immunization coverage is stagnating at about 70%. The days and times of clinics are not always convenient for mothers working at home or employed outside. Moreover, vaccines not under EPI, but recommended by the Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP), are unavailable there, forcing mothers to go to private sector immunization clinics to get them. Recognizing the local need for user-friendly immunization clinic, we designed one in the Department of Child Health. The impetus came from local demand by a civil society organization (Rotary Club of Vellore). Our immunization clinic is open every working day (8.30 am to 4.00 pm) offering both groups of vaccines. Its success is illustrated by the fact that over 7000 children per month receive immunization in this clinic. We describe its design and operation so that this model may be replicated in other urban hospitals with pediatric sections.

Support Needs of Indian Women in Early Labour

The study was conducted in four selected hospitals in the Southern part of India with an aim to determine the support needs of women in early labour as perceived by women. A descriptive design was used to determine the support needs of women in early labour. Following ethical approval, sixty women between 29-40 weeks of gestation with singleton pregnancy were interviewed in early labour, using a validated Labour Support Need Assessment Tool to gather data on background information and perception of women related to need and support needs (physical, emotional and informational support). Results indicated that women perceived all types of support such as physical, emotional and informational as significant factors in their care during labour, regardless of their parity and gestation. The major findings of the study suggested that there was a slightly higher need for support among women for informational (90.33%) and emotional support (88.78%) compared to physical support (80.19%). For primigravid women, and multiparous women who were experiencing labour for the first time (previous birth by caesarean section), the ‘need for support’ was greater than for women who had previous experience of labour. Early labour is the time when most women use their own coping skills and seek support. Determining the quantity and quality of support women need at this phase of labour can help care providers to provide the best comprehensive care to women in early labour. The findings of the study provide a guide on what women feel is helpful in early labour.

Vitamin A deficiency Disorders among the Rural Pre-School Children of South India

Objectives: Vitamin A deficiency (VAD) among the rural pre-school children in India is continues to be a major nutritional problem of public health significance, even after the implementation of national vitamin A prophylaxis programme for more than four decades. The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of vitamin A deficiency among rural pre-school children of South India. Methodology: A community based cross-section study; adopting multi-stage random sampling procedure was carried out by the National Nutrition Monitoring Bureau (NNMB) among rural pre-school children of four South Indian states viz. Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka during 2003-05. A total of 35,480 (Boys: 18,216; Girls: 17,264) rural children of 1-5 year age group was covered for this study. Key Results: The prevalence of Bitot’s spot, an objective ocular sign of VAD among the rural pre-school children of South Indian was 0.6% (95%CI:0.5-0.7). Similarly, the proportion of children with sub-clinical VAD was 59.3%, suggestive of a severe public health problem. In general, the prevalence of VAD was significantly higher (p<0.001) among the children of socio-economically marginalized sections of the communities, labourers, illiterate mothers and those residing in the households with no sanitary latrine. Conclusion: The prevalence of clinical and sub-clinical VAD among the rural pre-school children of south India is suggestive of a public health concern. Therefore, rural communities are encouraged to consume diets rich in pre-formed and pro-vitamin A and administer periodic massive dose vitamin A solution to the children of under five for the prevention and control of VAD.

Ocular Manifestations of Vitamin A Deficiency Among the Rural Pre-School Children of North India

Purpose: Vitamin A deficiency (VAD) is still a major nutritional problem of public health importance among the rural pre-school children in India, even after the implementation national vitamin A prophylaxis programme for prevention of nutritional blindness and ICDS have been in operation for more than three decades. The purpose of this communication is to assess the prevalence of ocular manifestations of vitamin A deficiency among rural pre-school children of north India. Methods: A community based cross-section study; adopting multi-stage random sampling procedure was carried out by NNMB among rural pre-school children of four north Indian states viz. Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Orissa and West Bengal. A total of 36,111 rural pre-school children of 1-5years (Boys: 18408; Girls: 17703) were covered for this study. Results: The prevalence of conjunctival xerosis (2.5%), the first ocular sign of VAD and Bitot’s spot (0.9%), an objective ocular sign of VAD was higher than the cut-off values suggestive of public health nutritional problem among the rural children. While, the prevalence of night blindness, the first symptom VAD was reported among 0.5% of rural children. Similarly, the proportion of rural pre-school children with sub-clinical VAD was 64%, suggestive of severe public health importance. Conclusion: The prevalence of ocular manifestation and sub-clinical vitamin A deficiency was high among the rural children of north India. Therefore, rural communities are encouraged to consume diets rich in vitamin A and administer massive dose vitamin A solution to the children of under five for the prevention and control of vitamin A deficiency and its adverse impact on child morbidity and mortality.

Socio-Economic and Demographic Pattern of HIV Occurrence Amongst Attendees in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Eastern India.

Objective: Toanalyze the socio-economic pattern amongst HIV patients in eastern and north-eastern India as measured by different parameters such as educational status, wealth, marital status, sexual behaviour. Methods: This study involved 650 HIV seropositive individuals enrolled in a HIV Apex Clinic in a tertiary care hospital in Kolkata, India during 2006 to 2011. Socio-demographic data were obtained while keeping the names of HIV seropositive individual’s names confidential. HIV testing was done according to the guidelines of NACO, India. Diagnoses of different common opportunistic infections were also done. Results: Out of the 650 individuals, 53% reported to have presenting symptoms of low grade fever, 21% had weight loss, general weakness and malaise. 13% reported to have frequent skin rashes, 13% ported to severe seizures and lack of coordination. 41.07 % of them had an income ranging from Rs1000 - 1500 per month. These individuals mainly were daily workers, labourers who work in per day income basis. 44.13% (89 out of 202) of the females were married at a young age, 65 (32.17%) were widowed whose husbands succumbed to HIV. Assessment of the educational qualifications reveals that those individuals affected reveals that 65% of the males received education till standard VIII, 25% received elementary education till standard IV. Conclusion: The study highlights the sectors of the socio-economic class who need more attention to tackle the HIV burden. The analysis of the socio-economic status reveals the low income and lack of education are main contributing factors towards the spread of this disease in this region.

Vascular Damage in Newly Diagnosed Young Hypertensive Patients, Assessed by Carotid Intima Media Thickness: An Indian Perspective

Background: Western studies have shown that hypertension increases carotid intima media thickness (cIMT) as early as in childhood and adolescence. However, similar data from India is lacking. Indians have different genetic, racial, geographic, cultural and dietary patterns. Hence a similar trend may not be experienced among young Indian subjects. Methods: 46 young cases (age 16 – 35 years) of hypertension were recruited along with age, sex and BMI matched controls. Patients with body mass index (BMI) >25 kg/m2, diabetes mellitus and secondary causes of hypertension were ruled out. All patients underwent carotid ultrasonography for assessment of cIMT. Results: Mean age and BMI of cases was 25.4 years and 20.89 kg/m2 respectively. 67.4% were male. For all of the subjects combined (n=92), cIMT correlated with BMI (r = 0.244; P=0.019), office systolic blood pressure (SBP) (r = 0.556; p<0.001) and office diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (r =0.426; p<0.001). Among hypertensive subjects (n=46), there was a significant positive correlation between cIMT and SBP (r=0.611, p<0.001). In contrast to SBP, DBP correlated insignificantly with cIMT (r= 0.217; p = 0.14) in the hypertensive subjects. Conclusion: Elevated blood pressure, especially systolic, correlates with increased cIMT among young Indian hypertensives. This provides strong evidence that primary hypertension in early life also is associated with vascular pathology, independent of the effects of obesity and diabetes

Pattern of Use of Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy Regimens and Pattern of Occurrence of Adverse Drug Reactions in an Indian Human Immunodeficiency Virus Positive Patients

Background: In India, Human immunodeficiency (HIV) infected patients with highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) are at higher risk of developing adverse drug reactions (ADRs). Objectives: The aim of this study was to characterize the pattern of use of HAART, occurrence, incidence, severity and causality of ADRs to HAART in Indian HIV positive patients. Methods: This was a prospective observational study conducted between August 2009 and May 2012. Enrolled HIV positive patients were intensively monitored for ADRs with fixed dose antiretroviral therapy as per National AIDS Control organization (NACO).World Health Organization (WHO) definition of ADR was adopted to detect ADRs to HAART and classified based on WHO adverse reaction terminologies. Naranjo’s scale was used for causality assessment of ADRs. Preventability was assessed using Thornton and Schuman criteria and severity was assessed using the modified Hart wig and Siegel scale. Pattern of ADRs was assessed with patient demographics, ADRs characteristics, and pattern of drug and reaction characteristics. P-value <0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results: A total of 426 ADRs to HAART were evaluated from 1982 HIV positive patients during the study period. The overall incidence of ADRs to HAART was 21.4%. Significant difference was seen in the incidence of ADRs in the age group of 41-60 years (p <0.001), CD4+T-cell counts of 350-500 cells/µl (p <0.001), females (p <0.001). Three fatal ADRs of with cutaneous drug eruptions of Steven Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) was 1.1%. Anemia (31.7%) accounted for majority of the reports followed by vomiting (15.5%), skin rash (12.9%) and peripheral neuropathy (10.7%). The suspected drug was withdrawn for the management of the ADRs in majority (27.9%) of the reports. Higher incidence rate of ADRs was noted with lamivudine (3TC) + nevirapine (NVP) + stavudine (D4T) (22.9%). In, naranjo's causality assessment, majority of the ADR reports were rated as possible (69%). Symptomatic treatment for ADRs was given in 91.8% of the reports and 86.4% of the reports the patient recovered from the suspected adverse reaction at the time of evaluation. Conclusion: In India, occurrence of ADRs to HAART in HIV infected patients was found to be higher with zidovudine induced anemia (31.7%). The higher percentage of ADRs to HAART was seen with female patients, age 41-60 years; CD4+ T-cell counts 350-500 cells/µl. Physician must focus for monitoring all lab investigations for early detection and prevention of adverse effects associated with HAART.

Evaluation of Direct Cost of Adverse Drug Reactions to Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy in Indian Human Immunodeficiency Virus Positive Patients

In India, interruptions to highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) are due to adverse drug reactions (ADRs) and no reports on the direct cost incurred in the management of ADRs to HAART are available. There is a need to study direct cost incurred with ADRs to HAART to explore the high economic cost burden imposed by ADRs to HAART in HIV/AIDS patients. This study was aimed to evaluate the direct cost incurred in the management of ADRs to HAART in Indian HIV positive patients. This prospective study was conducted at a Medicine department in a South Indian tertiary care teaching hospitals were ADRs reporting system exist. HIV-positive hospitalized in-patients were identified and intensively monitored for ADRs to HAART. The World Health Organization (WHO) probability scale was used for causality assessment of ADRs. Modified Hart wig and Siegel scale was used for severity assessment of ADRs.Pearson chi-square test identified association of mean direct cost between ADRs and without ADRs by investigating total mean direct cost. The overall direct cost per ADRs to HAART was found to be higher in the context of expenditure on health care cost in India.

Keratinophilic Fungi: Diversity And Abundance in the Soil of Ajmer District, Rajasthan

Soil is a natural habitat and ecosystem for microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi. Mostly keratinophilic fungi are found in soil, use keratin as a growth substrate, and are essential to the natural degradation of keratin waste. These fungi include dermatophytes, a potential source of infectious diseases in humans and animals and cause dermatophytosis. One hundred thirty-six soil samples were collected from several sites including animal habitats in Ajmer district, Rajasthan, India. The soil samples were used for the study of keratinophilic fungi related to species richness, abundance, and diversity. The Physio-chemical properties of collected soil samples were analyzed and examined in soil microflora for temperature, pH, and macronutrients including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Ninety-eight soil samples (72%) showed positive results for the keratinophilic fungal isolates. The isolated fungal species belonging to eight genera and seventeen species included Aspergillus niger, A. flavus, A. fumigatus, Chrysosporium tropicum, Microsporum gypseum, M. canis, Fusarium solani, F. oxysporum, F. verticilloides, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, T. rubrum, T. tonsurans, T. terrestre, T. equinum, Penicillium, Mucor circinelloides, and Blastomyces. The temperature recorded for keratinophilic fungi ranged between 25℃ and 37℃ and pH was found in the range of 7.0 to 8.5. The fungal community was dominated by the order Onygenales followed by Eurotiales and Hypocreales belonging to the phylum Ascomycota.

Global importance of supporting the krill to whale component of the pelagic food web associated with migrations following deep sea seamounts

The main diet of baleen whales is krill in the Arctic, Antarctic and during migrations in the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans. Hence, the aim of this paper is to quantify the global importance of the krill to baleen whale component of the pelagic food web and possible feedback loops. That was undertaken by comparing the results of Ecopath Models in the Antarctic and Arctic Oceans and to migration areas in the North Atlantic and Alaska, was well as the large Seamount area from the Antarctic and Arctic. Biological production transfer is the essential component of the prey to predator pelagic food web, which maintains the production of predators. The importance of sustaining global baleen whale migrations is to support ecosystem production by whale defecation contribution to nutrient recycling. It is important to sustain krill and fish abundance in whale migration feeding areas using ecosystem-based fishery management (EBFM) fishing rates. It was shown by the literature that migrations tended to followed deep-sea seamounts, and baleen whale defecation and nutrient cycling at seamounts led to the effects of nutrient upwelling by deep sea currents at seamounts. Hence, it is suggested seamounts be protected as important marine ecosystems. Therefore, those processes indicate sustaining krill and whale abundance is likely to support global marine ecosystem stability in open ocean migration areas.

A Cross Sectional Analysis of Frailty and Markers of Frailty in Young People Living with HIV/AIDS

Background Frailty is an ageing-associated state linked to poor prognostic outcomes. Chronic inflammation due to HIV-infection, AIDS-related infections. and the adverse effects of antiretroviral therapy (ART) all contribute to frailty in people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHA). Frailty has been comprehensively studied in populations comprising predominantly of Caucasian PLHA. However, there remains a dearth of such data in Indian populations, especially in younger PLHA. Methodology This cross-sectional study aimed to estimate the prevalence of frailty in PLHA (18 - 50 years) who had been on ART for 24-60 months and identify markers linked to frailty. Frailty was assessed in 152 subjects using the Fried frailty-index. Parameters measured included the mid-upper arm and calf circumferences, pain-severity (using the Brief Pain Inventory), highly-sensitivity C-reactive protein, d-dimer, and interleukin-6. Results The prevalence of frailty and pre-frailty were 6.58% and 23.02%, respectively. Reduced grip strength and self-reported exhaustion were associated with frailty (15.79% and 13.16%, respectively). Low calf-circumference and mid-upper arm circumference were not significantly associated with frailty/pre-frailty. The prevalence of pain was 21.7% and both pain severity and pain interference were significantly associated with frailty/pre-frailty. CD-4 counts at the time of assessment showed an inverse association with frailty. Elevated C-reactive protein (CRP of 0.04 associated with 0.49 probability of frailty (95% CI 0.40 – 0.59), CRP of 0.12 associated with 0.63 probability of frailty (95% CI 0.47 – 0.76)). D-dimer levels were not significantly associated with frailty /pre-frailty. Conclusion In this first-of-its-kind study on frailty in young PLHA (mean age 37 years) from the Indian sub-continent, the prevalence of frailty and pre-frailty was 6.58% and 23.02%, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed a strong association of frailty with pain severity, CD4 count at time of assessment, hs-CRP levels and duration of ART.

A Study on Nutraceuticals

Hippocrates trusted foodstuff, maybe medicine, and healthcare management, administration, and costing are important. Nutraceuticals, derived from "nutrition" and "pharmaceutical," cover differing healing areas like “antagonistic-hard, cold and cough, sleep difficulties, digestion, cancer prevention, osteoporosis, blood pressure, cholesterol management, pain relievers, depression, and diabetes”. “Stephen De Felice”, “founder of the Foundation for Innovation in Medicine, created the term in 1989”.Functional foods, like milk and orange juice, supply health benefits that surpass food, in the way that a better lifestyle and a lower risk of ailment. Nutraceuticals, in another way, involve fortified dairy products like milk that help avoid or cure illnesses and disorders apart from anaemia.Conventional arrangements like Solvents extraction , Soxhlet distillation ,maceration and “Non conventional designs” like ‘Microwave assisted origin’, Ultrasound Assisted Extraction are used to restore the bioactive material from plants for nutraceuticals.”The Indian Health and Dietary Supplement Association” supports drug, nutraceutical, herbaceous, and direct selling energies by categorising them based on chemical arrangement, food type, and conventional arrangement.This paper gives a brief review on nutraceuticals ,its history , its market trend , extraction techniques , benefits and its applications .

A Newer Approach in the Management of Cough: A Review on Levodropropizine

Safe and effective antitussive therapy remains a significant area of unmet need for cough management. Antitussive drugs are commonly used cough suppressants and include centrally acting (opioids and non-opioids) cough suppressants and peripherally acting antitussives. Authors searched PubMed, Google Scholar and additional studies from reference lists via cross-referencing to identify studies assessing levodropropizine for the treatment of cough. Of the 748 studies identified, 13 were included. Recent clinical evidence, guideline recommendations and findings from this review suggest that levodropropizine is a peripheral antitussive which reduces cough intensity, frequency, and nocturnal awakenings in children and adults and provides better efficacy outcomes with a more favourable risk/benefit ratio compared to centrally acting antitussive agents which pose greater safety concerns and present an unacceptable risk–benefit profile. This review is aimed at Indian primary care physicians for making effective cough management decisions where the clinical evidence needs to be translated to clinical practice. Key Messages The usage of currently available centrally acting antitussive agent is greatly limited by their central depressing action and frequent side effect. The findings of this review indicate that levodropropizine is an effective antitussive agent and well tolerated in the management of cough in patients of all ages.

A Clinical, Electrocardiographic and Echocardiographic Comparison of Patients with Single Vs Multivessel Disease Presenting with Acute Coronary Syndromes

Background Prevalence of coronary artery disease is between 7-13 percent in urban and 2-7 % in rural India1. The alarm in rise in the prevalence of coronary risk factors like diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, smoking, central obesity and physical inactivity2. The correlation between these risk factors and the severity of coronary atherosclerosis, assessed by angiography which may be either single or multivessel is less consistent with studies reporting conflicting results 3,4. Therefore our study aims to understand the proper correlation between risk factors and severity of coronary artery disease in an Indian population Methods This study was conducted in the department of cardiology, NIMS hospital Hyderabad which receives patients from the urban as well as rural areas of Telangana. the patients admitted in the department of cardiology, NIMS hospital Hyderabad that presented with acute coronary syndromes and diagnosed to have coronary artery disease (single vessel/multivessel disease) on coronary angiography taken for study. Sample Size is 150 Results Among the 150 subjects, males were 111(74%) and females were 39(26%). Mean age of the study population is 55.2 ± 11.4. Among SVD group 73.65% were males &26.3% were females. Among MVD group 76.2% were males & 23.7% were females. Mean age for SVD was 53±14.4 years, while mean age foe MVD was 58.6±14.5 years. For ACS mean age of presentation for females is 60.7±11.4 and for males mean age of presentation is 55.1±12.6. MVD (57.2%) were more common among smokers than SVD. In <45 years age group SVD (69.2%) were more common than MVD (30.8%). In 45- 70 years age group and >70 years age group MVD were more common than SVD with 69.6% and 66.6% respectively, which is statistically significant. MVD (60%) were more common among hypertensives than SVD. Among non-hypertensives MVD (41.8%) was less common than SVD (58.2%) MVD was common among all age groups, which is statistically signicant. Among STEMI group SVD (58.3%) was more common than MVD (41.7%). Among NSTEMI group MVD (62%) was more common than SVD (38%).Correlation between groups was statistically significant. Among SVD study group, LVEF was commonly between 30-45% & very few with LVEF <30% MVD was associated with more severe LV dysfunction as compared to SVD in acute MI. The difference in ejection fraction between the two groups was statistically significant P value=0.0002. In hospital MACE Among SVD there was 1 MI (due to stent thrombosis) who had to TVR (primary PCI) & rest were asymptomatic and discharged in normal state MVD there were in hospital deaths (due to refractory cardiogenic shock) rest were asymptomatic and were discharged in normal state. This difference between the two groups was statistically insignificant. Conclusion Multivessel disease in ACS were seen more commonly among elderly as compared to young subjects where single vessel disease were more common. Females especially elderly more commonly have multivessel disease. Mean age for multivessel disease was higher than single vessel disease. Among <45 years age group, SVD was more prevalent among smokers, obese and physically active. Multi vessel disease is more prevalent among patients with risk factors like diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia and physically inactive. Subjects with family history of premature CAD presented early and correlated well with prevalence of SVD.NSTEMI presented more with multi vessel disease. In echocardiographic wall motion analysis, a depressed regional segment of infarcted area with remote hyperkinesis predicted SVD where as remote area hypokinesis predicts more multivessel disease. In hospital outcomes were seen among multi vessel disease as compared to single vessel disease although not statistically significant.

HIV and Homosexuality: In the Light of Therapeutic Interventions

In this article the author reviews research on high risk factor of Human Immunodeficiency Virus in homosexuals and how lack of awareness & unprotected anal sex contribute substantially to new infections among this population. current HIV prevention efforts by providing insight into the patterns of Indian MSM behavior and sexual partnerships, and the specific cultural, social inequality, the gaps and lack of knowledge and psychological context in which HIV risk is occurring. And the need to develop effective awareness programs for well-functioning prevention of HIV and considerable understanding of the logistical and socio-cultural barriers MSM experience while accessing HIV prevention services. And in last will put light on therapeutic interventions for Human Immunodeficiency Virus, behavioral interventions that are socially and culturally appropriate for the population or community being prioritized and addressing multilevel psychosocial factors, including skills building and strategies to foster self-acceptance and increased social support for MSM. At the same time, prevention messages need to be designed and adapted to the knowledge level and culture of people.

Effect of pH on Phytochemical and Antioxidant Potential of Satawar Tubers (Asparagus Racemosus Willd.)

Plants are an important source of medicines since ancient times. The traditional system medicine’s use a variety of native plants to diagnose, prevent, and eliminate acute and chronic diseases.Asparagus racemosus(Willd.), also have been widely used for medicinal purpose and its extensively distributed in the tropics and subtropics of India, commonly known as Satawar, belongs to the family Asparagus. The purpose of this was to identify the phytochemicals and to assess the antioxidant potential in aqueous extracts prepared at different pH levels of Satawar tubers. The maximum amount of phenolics and flavonoids content was present at pH 9 i.e.18.88mg GAE/g and 2.83mg CE/g. The total antioxidant capacity was highest at pH 2 (15.96mg AAE/g) and IC50 values of DPPH free radical scavenging activity was the lowest at pH 7, 2582.85µg/mL. According to the whole study, this plant is a very good source of phytochemicals and acts as a powerful antioxidant.

Position Paper: Overview of Workplace Bullying in Higher Educational Organizations

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak has severely affected the whole world. It has overshadowed all the developmental activities across different countries. The COVID-19 pandemic has negatively affected global economy and has threatened health security of people worldwide. This pandemic have affected environment dynamically. Decrease in economic activities, travelling, transport and traffic restrictions all over the world have led to decreased emissions of greenhouse gases and drop in air and water pollution observed universally. Also more than 40 % of downfall is observed in NO2 concentration in Asia and Europe as compared to 2019. Reduced pollution had a good effect on freshwater aquatic life. The reduction in worldwide aircraft flight directly impact on forecast and decreases 65% of weather prediction. Snow fall was observed even in a summer in India. This pandemic has had a long-term impact, affecting all aspects of human life and halting all developmental processes. Combating the COVID-19 pandemic is currently at the top of the global agenda. Quarantine measures opted for safety of the public have positively affected the environment. Although it has downturned the economic growth drastically, it has also contributed in lowering the pollution. If there is a silver lining to this horrible situation, it may be that it has given us a whiff of the air we will breathe in a low-carbon future.

An Investigation on Dietetics and Nutritional Interests using Quantitative Analysis in the Existing Prevalent Conditions of COVID-19

This paper wishes to address the main concerns of food patterns and food consumption during the epidemic with quantitative analysis from various regions of Tamil Nadu. It was noted that it is more important than natural foods. The current epidemic had a profound effect on the humankind, recognizing the importance of staying healthy is the crucial aspect. In time, further research was conducted on the diet of the Indian subcontinent. Everyone should know about the importance of health and how nutrition contributes to the health and equality of people around the world. The main purpose of this study was to identify the importance of good nutrition and disease prevention.

Ecological Significance of Residues Retention for Sustainability of Agriculture in the Semi-arid Tropics

In South Asia, land degradation is primarily a monsoon mediated phenomenon restricted to 2-3 rainy months. The overall strategy for land degradation neutrality should (i) favour actions that keep soils covered with residues and (ii) plant kharif (rainy season) crop before the onset of monsoons to provide soil cover. Retention of anchored residues provides surface cover, increases microbial activity, carbon sequestration, and availability of nutrients. Surface retained residues reduce root zone salinization, detoxify phytotoxic monomeric Al in acidic soils and enhance the potential for use of brackish ground water in crop production. Residues covers save irrigation water and overcome the ill effects of poor agronomic and water management practices. Early direct dry seeding in surface retained residues has the potential of making kharif season planting independent of the onset of monsoon rains in South Asia and helps reduce acreages of Kharif and Rabi fallow lands. For improving carbon content in Indian soils, perhaps the most important priority is to devise tillage and crop residue management approaches that promote in situ rain water storage and its use for growing more crops. The paper summarises how crop residues fuel and drive soil functions and related ecosystem services and plant growth.

The Pharmacognostic Evaluation of Leaves of Medicinal Plants Tephrosia villosaand Cassia Tora (Linn.)

Medicinal plants Tephrosia villosaand Cassia tora (Linn.) are belongs to the family Fabaceae and widely distributed in India and other tropical regions. Different parts (roots, stem, leaves and seeds) of the both plants have been used in various traditional medicare systems for ailments of human being. In the present study deals with the evaluation of pharmacognostic parameters in terms of the macro and micro-morphological characters and quantitative profiles of the leaves of Tephrosia villosa andCassia tora(Linn.). The observations of the current study can be useful for identification, standardization and authentication of plants.

Assessment of Physical, Thermal and Spectral Properties of Consciousness Energy Treated Cholecalciferol

Cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) is used nowadays in nutraceuticals regarding the prevention and treatment of vitamin D deficiency and associated diseases. This study was done to analyse the effect of the Trivedi Effect® - Energy of Consciousness Treatment on the physicochemical, thermal, and spectral properties of cholecalciferol using PSA, PXRD, DSC, TGA/DTG, FT-IR, and UV-Vis analysis. For this study, the cholecalciferol sample was divided into control/ untreated and Biofield Energy Treated vitamin D3. The treated vitamin D3 sample received Biofield Energy Treatment (the Trivedi Effect®) remotely for ~3 minutes by Mr. Mahendra Kumar Trivedi, who was located in the USA, while the test samples were located in the research laboratory in India. The treated sample was designated as the Biofield Energy Treated sample. The PSA analysis showed that the particle size values at d10, d50, d90, and D(4, 3) of the treated sample were significantly decreased by 5.80%, 16.49%, 17.52%, and 16.23%, respectively compared to the control sample. However, the specific surface area of the treated cholecalciferol was significantly increased by 7.26% compared to the control sample. Besides, the PXRD analysis revealed that the relative intensities regarding the characteristic diffraction peaks in the treated sample were significantly altered from -42.56% to 22.42%, along with -41.69% to 72.71% alterations in the crystallite sizes, compared with the control sample. Also, the treated sample showed 2.80% decrease in the average crystallite size. The DSC analysis showed a slight increase (0.24%) in the melting point of the treated sample along with 3.68% increase in the latent heat of fusion (ΔH) compared to the control sample. Also, the decomposition temperature of the treated sample was decreased by 0.29%, whereas the ΔH was increased by 5.79%, compared to the control sample. Moreover, the TGA/DTG analysis revealed the significant decrease in weight loss in the 1st and 3rd step of degradation of the treated sample by 18.58% and 89.81%, respectively, along with 1.83% increase in the maximum thermal degradation temperature compared with the control sample. Overall, the thermal stability of the treated cholecalciferol sample was observed to be increased in comparison to the control sample. Thus, the Trivedi Effect® might be used to produce a different polymorph of cholecalciferol, which possesses the improved qualities in terms of appearance, dissolution, absorption, bioavailability, and thermal stability as compared with the untreated sample. Thus, the Biofield Energy Treated cholecalciferol might be used in designing of better nutraceutical and pharmaceutical formulations possessing improved therapeutic response regarding the treatment of vitamin D deficiency associated diseases.

Evaluation of Gall Bladder Mucosal Changes in Relation to the Type of Stones in Patients Undergoing Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: A Retrospective Study of 394 Patients

Background and Aim Gallbladder (GB) cancer is a highly fatal malignancy and approx. 10% new cases are diagnosed every year in India. The GB cancer has poor prognosis due to progressive nature. Understanding of risk factors that lead to GB development is urgently required for better management of the disease. Presence of stones in gall bladder generates varied mucosal reactions, which leads to different types of histopathological changes in mucosa. Here, our aim is to study the correlation between various types of mucosal responses e. g. inflammation, hyperplasia, metaplasia and carcinoma with different characteristics e. g. number and morphology of gallstones both in males and females. Materials and Methods A retrospective study of gallstones was performed on 438 cases of cholecystectomies operated laparoscopically based on the histological changes. Out of 438 cases, 394 (89.95%) were associated with gallstones and the rest 44 (10.05%) belonged to acalculous cholecystitis. The mucosal changes in calculous gall bladder were studied in 394 cases and its correlation with number and types of observed gallstones were evaluated. Tissue sections were taken from the fundus, body, neck and abnormal area of gallbladder for histopathological studies. Results Our study has revealed the higher incidence of inflammatory changes in males, while gall bladder hyperplasia, intestinal metaplasia and cancer cases were found mostly in females. Conclusion Our study showed that changes in the number and morphology of gallstones are directly associated with the mucosal changes in gallbladder e.g. inflammation, hyperplasia, metaplasia and gall bladder carcinoma.

A Review on Lab Scale Cultivation of Calocybe Indica and Its Medicinal Value

Calocybe indica, a tropical edible mushroom and it is popular because it has good nutritive value and it can be cultivated commercially on a large scale. Mushrooms are in the great demand everywhere and hold a unique place in the world today due to their typical taste and rich in protein, vitamins, minerals. Other than nutritional value, it is also playing a major role in medicinal field. Milky mushroom is known to have anti-oxidant and anti-cancer effect. Paddy in particular used as a substrate in Milky mushroom considered as inexpensive and it is a popular variety among people because of its distinct flavor, higher protein content and shorter cropping duration compared to other cultivated mushrooms. The present study designed to explain how the mushroom was cultivated using paddy straw in India.

Assessment of Body Size by Structural Equation Model Using Anthropometric Traits of Fishermen Community: A Methodological Approach

Objectives Aim of the study was to develop a ‘composite body size score’ (CBSS) using anthropometric traits to estimate body size and to assess the nutritional status of each study individual on the basis of CBSS. Materials and Methods Data on seventeen anthropometric traits were collected from 710 individuals (Male, Female) from fishermen community inhabiting coastal villages of West Bengal, India. For estimating body sizes, Structural Equation Model (SEM) was constructed with Path Analysis (PA). Later, second order Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) was applied on SEM to determine CBSS. It was hypothesized in the models that CBSS is composed with three sets of latent variables viz., linear, circular and skinfold, constructed from anthropometric traits. Applying new derived optimal cut off points of CBSS was used to determine lean, normal and robust body sizes. Individuals with negative values of CBSS were categorised as lean body size,. Positive values of CBSS were categorised into two categories- normal and robust body size. Results On the basis of CBSS, result showed that 50.6%, 48.8% and 0.6% of the individuals were categorised under lean, normal and robust body size respectively. Females showed relatively higher percent of lean body size i.e. under nutrition (73.8%) compared to males (26.2%). Conclusion The hypothesized model estimate more accurate composite body size score, based on anthropometric traits. All the traits are highly significant on the model. The lean body size category can be use in predicting ‘Undernutrition’.

Treatment of Dairy Industry Wastewater - Special Reference to Design of Aerated Lagoon

Industrial revolution brought diversified industries to produce goods to meet the demand of increasing population. Such a rapid growth of industrial sector caused water pollution to a great extent. Dairy industry is not an exception, causing significant water pollution. The dairy sector in India grew at a rate of 6.4 per cent annually in the last four years against the global growth rate 1.7 per cent demonstrating significant increase in milk productivity. Around 80 million rural Indian households are engaged in milk production with very high proportion being landless, small and marginal farmers. But on the other hand, water pollution being caused from these dairy industries is quite significant. Various biological treatment technologies were tried for treating dairy wastewater. An attempt has been made by the authors of the present paper to design aerated lagoon including screen chamber, primary clarifier, quiescent settling zone and sludge disposal with success to treat dairy wastewater.

Wrist Wearable Health Band for COVID-19 Testing

Testing people for COVID-19 in a country like India with a huge population is a near impossible task therefore the government is using body temperature as a testing parameter to cover the whole population. Infrared thermometers are used to find the temperature because it is a cheaper and faster way. This testing rate can be done even faster, without the need of manpower and with far more accuracy using smart watches and bands. These wrist-wearables are mostly used for fitness purposes which have more measuring equipment that is used for preliminary testing done for COVID. This equipment’s are in the form of electric sensors which are small enough to be used in wearables. So we can get even more insight and accuracy compared to the standard method. In this study an application is created to use an array of sensors (Pulse sensor, Pulse oximeter, Accelerometer and temperature sensor) are being used in these wearables to find the chance, that a person is affected due to COVID-19 and the information can be seen real time in mobile phone through the application. All the information can be sent to the health organization’s if required.

A quick Look at the Registered Cases of Covid-19 Throughout the World

The present work analyzes the registered cases of Covid-19 throughout the world according the data registered at Johns Hopkins University. We selected 15 countries to analyze their data. In alphabetical order the countries are: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Chile, China, Colombia, Germany, India, Italy, Mexico, Peru, Portugal, Spain, United States and Venezuela. With this information, three different studies were carried out. First, the data was validated using Benford's Law which is based on forensic techniques that allow us to guarantee the integrity of the information. Later, we calculated the value of the basic reproduction number (R0), ie., the number of secondary host infections caused by one primary host infection that helps us to determine if a country has an outbreak of Covid-19. Finally, we show that the best representation for the change in the number of cases in the time is to calculate the mantissa value, ie., the floating number obtained from the logarithm of the data.

How Valid are the Reported Cases of People Infected with Covid-19 in the World?

The goal of this paper is to analyze the registered cases of people who have been infected with Covid-19 registered from throughout the world, using a digital forensic analysis technique that is based on Benford's Law. Twenty-three countries were randomly chosen for this analysis: China, India, Germany, Brazil, Venezuela, Netherlands, Italy, Colombia, Russia, Norway, South Africa, Portugal, Singapore, United Kingdom, Chile, Ecuador, Egypt, Denmark, Ireland, France, Belgium, Australia and Croatia.. We calculate on the p-values based on Pearson χ2 and Mantissa Arc Test according to the results obtained with the first digit. If any country fails these two tests, a third proof will be carried out based on the Freedman-Watson test. The results indicated that results from Italy, Portugal, Netherlands, United Kingdom, Denmark, Belgium and Chile are suspicions of data manipulation because the numbers fail the Benford’s Law according to the results obtained until April 30, 2020. However, it is necessary to carry out further studies in these countries in order to ensure that they countries manipulate or altered the information. 

Biting Behaviour of The Filarial Vector Mosquito, Culex quinquefasciatusSay,in an Urban Area

Mosquitoes depend on blood meal for the development of their eggs into offsprings. By knowing the biting behaviour of mosquitoes, we may control mosquito-borne diseases and manage the mosquitoe menace successfully. The present study has been designed to study the biting behaviour of the filarial vector, Culex quinquefasciatus Say, in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India from July to November 2006. This period was selected as mosquitoes are prevalent during this rainy season. Biting was more during September, October and November and the maximum of 28 caught/man/hour was recorded in November. It is predominantly an exophilic biter, but biting was also noticed as maximum inside the house during July in the study. The density of the biting population in the first floor was more than that of the second floor, which indicated the existence of vertical stratification in the biting behaviour of Cx quinquefasciatus.

Biodegradation of Methyl Parathion Using Pseudomonas stutzeri (MTCC 2643)

Pesticides applied in agricultural fields for crop protection result in the contamination of the environment. They also affect the flora and fauna as well as the quality of air, water and soil. Hence their remediation is of concern. Among different strategies available, microbial remediation is cost effective and ecofriendly. The present work is designed to test the efficiency of Pseudomonas stutzeri, a bacterial strain obtained from MTCC, IMTECH, Chandigarh, India. After treating with 50, 100, 150 and 200 ppm of methyl parathion, parameters like, orthophosphate released, pH and turbidity changes were monitored upto thirty hours. Degradation of 200 ppm concentration was confirmed by UV-Visible spectrophotometry and HPLC analysis. This strain effectively degraded methyl parathion and it can be used in the remediation of contaminated agricultural fields.

Docking Studies of HIV-1 Reverse Transcriptase and HIV-1 Protease with Phytocompounds of Carissa Carandas L.

Background Carissa carandas L. is a well-known wild fruit plant distributed through-out the India and also present in other countries. The fruits are rich in nutrients and minerals. A number of medicinally important phytochemicals such as carrisone, carindone, carandinol, lupeol, scopoletin, stigmasterol, β-sitosterol, myo-inositol, β-amyrin, Des-n-methylnoracronycine etc. have been reported from the extract of this plant. Being safe and cost effective molecules, the activity of phytochemicals against HIV-1 enzymes needs to be screened. Objective The aim of this study was to screen the potent phytocompound of C. carandas against human immunodeficiency virus-1 using docking method. Methods Total nine compounds viz. carandinol, caridone, carrisone, lupeol, p-coumaric acid, gallic acid, rutin, scopoletin and ursolic acid were used for in-silico study towards drug development against human immunodeficiency virus-1 reverse transcriptase (HIV-1RT; PDB ID: 1REV) and human immunodeficiency virus-1 protease (PDB ID:1EBY) using Autodock software. Results The qualitative characterization of the extracts showed the presence of a number of phytochemicals such as phenolics, flavonoids, alkaloids, terepnoids, terpenes, steroids, glycosides etc. Carandinol was observed as most effective anti-HIV-1 molecule having lowest binding energy and small inhibition coefficient. Another compound, p-coumaric acid, showed least effectiveness against human immunodeficiency virus- 1 reverse transcriptase or human immunodeficiency virus-1 protease showing highest binding energy and inhibition coefficients among all the evaluated phytocompounds. Conclusion The in-silico study demonstrated that some phytoconstituents of C. carandas exhibit potential anti-human immunodeficiency virus -1 activity and hence can be optimized to develop as a drug candidate in future.

First Geographical Record of Corymorpha bigelowi (Cnidaria: Hydrozoa, Corymorphidae) in the Northern Red Sea Coast of Egypt, Based on Morphological Description

The Anthomedusae species, Corymorpha bigelowi Maas, 1905 (Cnidaria: Hydrozoa, Corymorphidae), was recorded in the northern Red Sea fauna, representing it "first invasion" in Egypt. A fact proven by past studies that this species is endemic in the Indo-Pacific region, which is mainly located in southern coast of Japan and Indian Ocean. The specimens were collected from an area located off Hurghada city, and between latitudes 27° 14.427ˊ and 27° 10.816ˊ N, and longitudes 33° 51.085ˊ and 33° 51.603ˊ E using plankton net (350 µm mesh). In total, six mature medausae of C. bigelowi were caught in December 2014 and February 2015 (4 and 2 medusae, respectively). Following this, the captured species medusa of C. bigelowi was photographed and morphological characteristics described in details. As well as, further discussions of biogeographical distribution and morphological speciation of the present species were provided. This work makes a noteworthy contribution to clarify the migration route of C. bigelowi from southern Red Sea to the Mediterranean Sea. nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3155160/

Does Soil Testing for Fertiliser Recommendation Fall Short of a Soil Health Card?

Nutrient depletion and imbalanced use of fertiliser nutrients, inappropriate tillage and rain- water management practices often result in land degradation. Declining soil health contributes to climate change through loss in soil productivity, biodiversity, soil carbon, and moisture and ecosystem services. In order to address declining soil health, government of India has launched a soil health card (SHC) scheme aimed at need base use of chemical fertilisers. The paper points out the short-comings in the SHC scheme. Balanced and need base use of chemical fertilizers can be helpful in environmental protection and restoring soil health. The paper identifies potential agronomic practices and production management systems that can reduce our dependence on synthetic nutrients. Integration of soil fertility management domains with computer based QUEFT crop model has the potential of making fertiliser recommendations more domain and crop specific and less cumbersome. For soil health assessment chemical indicators must be integrated with physical and biological properties of the soils which can be predicted through reflectance spectroscopy. For assessing soil health related issues across different agro-ecoregions, there is however an urgent need for building-up more robust soil reflectance libraries.  

Safety, Tolerability, Efficacy and Logistics of Administration of Three Types of Therapeutic Feeds to Children with Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM)

Objective: To analyse safety, tolerability, efficacy and logistic issues related to administration of 3 types of therapeutic feeds to children with severe acute malnutrition (SAM) from tribal district of Nandurbar, Maharashtra. Design: A three arm open label, block randomized trial using 3 therapeutic feeds i.e. commercially available ready to use therapeutic feed (C-RUTF), locally prepared ready to use therapeutic feed ( L-RUTF) & amylase rich food(ARF) was given to 1092 tribal children of SAM in Nandurbar District, Maharashtra, India during 2014-2015. Setting: Tribal district of Nandurbar, Maharashtra. Participants: 1092 children of SAM, 766 on C-RUTF, 184 on L-RUTF & 143 on ARF followed on treatment for 8 weeks. Outcomes: The recovery rates in the three groups, any untoward effects during treatment and logistic aspects of procurement, delivery, storage & administration of therapeutic feeds. Results: Total number of children with SAM were 1092. Gr 1 – Out of 765 children of SAM, 404 (52.8%) recovered on C-RUTF. Gr 2 – 80 (43.5%) recovered out of 184 on L-RUTF. Gr 3 – 64 (44.8%) recovered on ARF at the end of 8 weeks of treatment, the difference being statistically significant between C-RUTF & others. Out of 38 children on C-RUTF, it was observed that 1 had diarrhoea, 1 had vomiting, 1 had fever, 4 children reported more activity in terms of playfulness, more speaking & smiling. 31 children had nothing specific to report. Out of 34 children on L-RUTF, 6 children reported diarrhoea, 1 had vomiting & 4 children reported fever. 3 children reported more activity. 23 children had nothing specific to report. Out of 19 children on ARF, 1 had diarrhoea, 1 had vomiting, 1 had fever, 3 reported more activity. 13 had nothing specific to report. Untoward effects were noted in 3 out of 38 (7.89%) in C-RUTF group, 11 out of 34 (32.35%) in L-RUTF group and 3 out of 19 (15.7%) in ARF group. Conclusion: C-RUTF was found to be more efficacious, with least untoward effects, easy to administer and was more palatable when compared to L-RUTF & ARF.

Morpho-Anatomical and Physicochemical Standardization of Diospyros malabarica (Desr.) Kostel Stem Bark

Diospyros malabarica (Desr.) Kostel synonym Diospyros peregrina Gurke (Family: Ebenaceae) is a medium sized evergreen tree commonly known as Kendu in Assamese. The plant has ethnomedicinal significance and used by various ethnic communities of North-East India to treat various disorders like dysentery, diabetes, diarrhea malaria, ulcer and wounds. However, detailed scientific information is not available to identify the plant material, in order to ascertain its quality and purity. Therefore, the present work was carried out to perform morpho-anatomical and physicochemical analysis of D. malabarica stem bark. The bark is externally dark brown to black in color and rough having characteristics odor and astringent taste. The microscopy of bark reveals the presence of polygonal thick walled cork, 3-4 layered phellogen, 7-8 layered phelloderm, stone cells, phloem fibers and medullary rays. Stem bark powder showed thick walled cork cells, thick walled elongated phloem fibers, lignified stone cells and rhomboidal crystals of calcium oxalate. Further, physicochemical analysis of the bark power showed loss on drying, total ash, water soluble ash, and acid insoluble ash as 6.2, 5.6, 1.1, 2.45, and 5.7% w/w respectively. The alcohol and water soluble extractives values of the stem bark were 10.6 and 16.8% w/w respectively. The result of preliminary phytochemical screening indicates presence of triterpenoids, saponins, tannins, flavonoids and sterols. The findings of this study will facilitate pharmacognostic standardization of the plant material and aid in the preparation of an herbal monograph for the species.

RETRACTED: Efficacy of BCG Vaccine and Role of Non Specific Sensitivity Due to Atypical Mycobacteria

This article has been retracted on December 28, 2018. VIEW THE RETRACTION NOTICE (https://doi.org/10.14302/issn.2577-137X.ji-25-5837) This paper attempts to summarizes possible reasons for BCG trial failure in India. It also lists out some of the important controversies and questions raised with regards to BCG trial in the context of Non Specific sensitivity. It emphasizes on the fact, that Tuberculin test does not accurately reflect individual’s responded immunologically to mycobacterium, it only indicates nature of immune response that has been elicited in an infected individual. The dynamics of tuberculin reaction needs to be understood through immunological considerations. Categorization of Tuberculin test results factoring in immunological considerations,will have great implication on the interpretation of tuberculin test and therefore on the estimation of annual risk of infection of tuberculosis.

Prevalence of Psychological Distress in Suriname In Urban and Rural Areas: The Suriname Health Study

Objective: To describe the presence of mental distress in a representative sample of the Surinamese ethnic groups in the population, across urban and rural areas. Design and Methods: The Kessler Psychological Distress Scale was applied to data from the Suriname Health Study (n=5,434 (15 to 65 years)) designed according to WHO Steps guidelines,to determine prevalences for mental distress in all living areas. Calculations were made in subgroups of sex, age, ethnicity, education, income, marital and employment status. The Odds Ratio (OR) for Sex and Ethnicity was estimated for mild-moderate and severe mental distress. Results: An overall prevalence of 3.8% (95%CI, 3.3-4.4) was observed for severe mental distress, 4.9% (95%CI, 4.4-5.5) for moderate mental distress and 10.8% (95%CI,10.0-11.6) for mild mental distress. The OR for mild-moderate and severe mental distress was 0.7 and 0.5 for men compared to women and higher prevalence of all categories of mental distress were found in women compared to men. Respondents with lower education and lower income showed higher prevalence of all categories of mental distress. Prevalence was also higher among respondents living in urban versus rural coastal areas, among singles versus people living with a partner and in unemployed versus employed. Maroons had higher Odds for mild-moderate and severe mental distress compared to Hindustani. Amerindian and Javanese had lower Odds for mild-moderate mental distress and Creole had lower Odds for Severe mental distress compared to Hindustani. Conclusions: Overall 19.5% of respondents reported mental distress. The main risk factors were female gender, Maroon ethnicity, low level of education and income, living in urban areas, unemployment and being single.

Domiciliary Treatment of Severe Acute Malnutrition

Background Severe acute malnutrition (SAM) is rampant in the children of hilly and inaccessible tribal region of Nandurbar, Maharashtra in India. It is estimated that nearly 5% of the children under five years have SAM. Objectives To assess the therapeutic efficacy of 3 types of nutrition protocols administered largely at home in SAM children from Nandurbar, Maharashtra. Methodology This study is a part of a larger three arm open label trial using 3 therapeutic feeds i.e. C-RUTF (Centrally produced ready to use therapeutic food), L-RUTF (locally prepared ready to use therapeutic food) and ARF (locally prepared amylase rich food) in children of SAM who attended the health facility and completed the treatment protocols for 8 weeks (All ‘per protocol patients’) and were between 1 to 3 years of age. The larger study included children aged 6 months to 59 months who were given same therapeutic feeding protocol. Findings A total of 450 SAM babies between 12-36 months. attended the outpatient therapeutic program during the period of July 2014 to December 2015 and completed the given protocol of therapeutic feeding program. 242(53.7%) were males and 208(46.2%) females. Out of these, 150 received C-RUTF, 150 received L-RUTF and 150 received ARF. Out of C-RUTF group 83(55.3%) recovered, in L-RUTF 70(46.7%) recovered and from ARF group 69(46.0%) recovered. The difference was statistically significant.(p=0.03) Total recovery rate was 49.3% in comparison to another under publication study by our group on 3418 children aged 6 months to 59 months, where recovery was 36.8%. Average weight gain per day was 3.54 ± 2.36 g/kg/day, 2.61 ± 2.12 g/kg/day, 2.60 ± 1.50 g/kg/day in the 3 arms respectively. Conclusion This study proves that domiciliary treatment with 3 types of therapeutic feeds gives recovery rate of 49.3%, there by meaning that SAM Children without complications can be treated at home with visit to health facility once a week. Of all the therapeutic feeding protocols C-RUTF had best recovery rates (55.3%) compared to others, the difference being statistically significant. Average weight gain per kg per day inC-RUTF group was 35.8 % higher than the other 2 groups.

Correlation of Cryptococcal Antigen Assay with C-reactive Protein as Serum and Urine Biomarker in Cryptococcal Meningitis: Experience in a Tertiary Hospital

Aims and Objectives: The incidence of cryptococcal meningitis caused by Cryptococcus neoformans has risen markedly over the past 20 years as a result of theHIV epidemic and increasing use of immunosuppressive therapies. The objectives of this study were to isolate and identify Cryptococcus neoformans from clinically suspected cases of fungal meningitis by conventional techniques and evaluate the role of C-reactive protein (CRP) as a serum or urine biomarker for the diagnosis and monitoring of patients with cryptococcal meningitis. Materials and Methods: Direct microscopic examination of the CSF samples from clinically suspected cases of fungal meningitis was done by India Ink staining for the capsule demonstration and isolation of the Cryptococcus neoformans was done by inoculation of the sample on Sabourauds dextrose agar. Latex agglutination test for the presence of cryptococcal antigen was done on sera, CSF and urine samples. C Reactive Protein levels were estimated in sera and urine. Result: Cryptococcal meningitis was diagnosed in 12 cases by culture and/or India Ink staining and/or latex agglutination assay for antigen detection in CSF. Only 8 (66.67%) and 1 (8.33 %) out of 12 samples were positive for cryptococcal antigen in sera and urine respectively. Whereas all the 12 patients were positive in the sera for CRP above the detection threshold limit, only 1 (8.33 %) patient had raised CRP in urine. CRP was raised two weeks after initiation of antifungal therapy in 3 of the above 12 sera and all these 3 cases turned out to be recurrent cases of cryptococcal meningitis. Conclusion Given the high incidence, morbidity and mortality associated with cryptococcal meningitis, it would be ideal if a screening test could be used to exclude this diagnosis based on the presence of biomarkers in serum or urine which would mean less discomfort for the patient in addition to decreased laboratory examination costs.

Liquid Chromatography Tandem Mass Spectrometry Method for Determination of Febuxostat in Human Plasma to Support A Bioequivalence Study

A reliable, selective and sensitive liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS/MS) assay has been proposed for the determination of febuxostat in human plasma using indomethacin as the internal standard (IS). The analyte and IS were extracted from 200 µL of human plasma via liquid-liquid extraction using methyl tert-butyl ether. Chromatography was performed on Hypurity C18 (100 mm × 4.6 mm, 5 µm) column under isocratic conditions. Detection of analyte and IS was done by tandem mass spectrometry, operating in negative ionization and multiple reaction monitoring mode. The deprotonated precursor to product ion transitions monitored for febuxostat and indomethacin were m/z 315.1 →271.0 and 356.1→312.0 respectively. The limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantitation (LOQ) of the method were 0.0025 µg/mL and 0.05 µg/mL respectively. The linear dynamic range validated for febuxostat was 0.05-6.00 µg/mL. The intra-batch and inter-batch precision (% CV) was ≤ 7.1 % while the mean extraction recovery was > 87 % for febuxostat across quality control levels. The method was successfully applied to a bioequivalence study of 80 mg febuxostat tablet formulation in 14 healthy Indian male subjects under fasting and fed condition. The reproducibility in the measurement of study data was demonstrated by reanalysis of 110 incurred samples.