026448   YADAV A, SINGH Y, SHUKLA G, SHUKLA P K, SIROHI R, KUMAR M, SWAIN D, MAMTA (Livestock Production & Management Dep, U.P. Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Pashu-chikitsa Vigyan Viswavidyalaya, Mathura- 281 001, Email: archnasingh.yadav@gmail.com) : Effect of sound exposure in the ambient environment of Hariana bulls on their plasma concentration of testosterone and cortisol hormones. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(7), 964-7.

The present experiment was performed to evaluate the effect of exposure of musical sound signals of 100 and 150 beats per minute (BPM) and intensity below 85 dB, on plasma concentration of cortisol and testosterone hormones of Hariana bulls maintained at semen biology lab within the premises of Instructional Livestock Farm Complex (ILFC). The present experiment was carried out for a time period of three and half months (within autumn season) and was accomplished in three phases/ conditions. To avoid individual effect of bulls, the same three Hariana bulls were used as experimental animals in all the three phases / conditions. During the first (control) phase of experiment, the bulls were not exposed to any additional source of sound except the normal environmental sound of semen collection site. In second and third phase, bulls were exposed to a musical instrumental sound signal of 100 and 150 BPM with intensity below 85 dB. All the three phases last for a period of one month (four weeks) one after other in continuation, but the third phase was started after a gap of three weeks from the second in order to nullify the persistent effect of sound exposure to bulls during second phase of investigation. The mean values of cortisol and testosterone of Hariana bulls at no exposure, sound signal of 100 and 150 BPM were 35.30 ± 1.82, 37.71 ± 1.82 and 34.87 ± 1.82; and 2.54 ± 0.09, 2.49 ± 0.09 and 2.72 ± 0.09, respectively. In the present study it was observed that the trend of a non significant increase in plasma concentration of testosterone and a non significant decrease in plasma concentration of cortisol as a consequence of this exposure indicated that exposure of a sound signal of 150 BPM with intensity below 85 dB, caused a favorable change in plasma concentration of sex (testosterone) and stress (cortisol) hormones, which might have been associated with better reproductive efficiency of Hariana bulls.

1 table, 17 ref

026447   ALI S, ZUBAIR M, UMAR S, AKHTAR M S, IQBAL Z, SAJID S M, KALEEM M, UBAID-UR-REHMAN (Poonch Univ, Rawalakot, Azad Kashmir, Email: drzubairabbasi@gmail.com) : Effects of Clomiphene citrate (CC) and Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) on hormonal profile, Serum biochemical constituents, and oxidative stress in pre-pubertal Sahiwal heifers. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(7), 959-63.

Clomiphene citrate (an anti-estrogen) has the abilities for the secretion of gondaotropin from the anterior pituitary gland. The present study was designed to investigate the effects of CC and hCG on female sex hormones (FSH, Estrogen) and serum biochemical constituents in pre-pubertal Sahiwal heifers. The twelve animals were randomly divided into a) treatment and b) control groups. These animals were grouped on the basis of reproductive status of heifers. The animals in treatment group were fed clomiphene citrate with dose of 300 mg/ animal for 9 days. On 10^th day of experiment, hCG (IVF-C 5000 iu (hCG) LG Life Sciences, Korea) was injected I/V to both groups. For the serum biochemical constituent’s evaluation and oxidative stress (MDA), blood on day 0, 14 and 28 was collected. Similarly, for hormones evaluation three blood samples per week (on alternate days) for 9 days were collected. The concentrations of both hormones were assessed by ELISA. For the comparison of variables, student t-test was applied. Analysis of data revealed that levels of hormones were higher in treated animals as compared to control. There was significant (p< 0.05) increase in total cholesterol, triglycerides total protein and sugar. But there was nonsignificant (p> 0.05) effect on liver enzymes (ALT and AST) and MDA. It was concluded that use of CC and hCG increase the FSH and estrogen and few alterations in serum biochemical constituents in the pre-pubertal Sahiwal heifers.

2 illus, 3 tables, 31 ref

026446   RADWAN H A, SHALABY N A, GABR A A (Animal Husbandry Dep, Mansoura Univ, Mansoura, Egypt) : Impact of maternal components on fitting of animal models in genetic parameters estimation for body weight traits in Rahmani lambs. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(7), 939-46.

The present research was undertaken to determine the effect of application animal six models including or ignoring maternal genetic and/or maternal permanent environmental effects based on single and multi-trait animal model analyses and choose the most efficient method of selection to improve body weight traits in Rahmani lambs on genetic base. Current findings pointed to increase phenotypic variances of weight traits by increasing lamb’s age. Maternal environmental effects shared approximately 13 % (ranged from 11 % to 20 %) of the whole phenotypic variation for body weight traits in multi-trait analysis and thereafter declined significantly for all the traits especially in single- trait analysis. The results show the significance of including at least one maternal component with covariance between direct and maternal effect for genetic evaluation body weight traits and high direct heritability estimates denoted possibility to use weight traits as selection criteria due to their direct response to genetic improvement through direct selection method and their economic importance in mutton production.

5 tables, 19 ref

026445   DIAS E F, KILIAN N, SILVA L, SCHAEFER H, CARINE M, RUDALL P J, SANTOS-GUERRA A, MOURA M (Açores Univ, Acores, Portugal) : Phylogeography of the Macaronesian lettuce species Lactuca watsoniana and L. palmensis (Asteraceae). Biochem Genet 2018, 56(4), 315–40.

The phylogenetic relationships and phylogeography of two relatively rare Macaronesian Lactuca species, Lactuca watsoniana (Azores) and L. palmensis (Canary Islands), were, until this date, unclear. Karyological information of the Azorean species was also unknown. For this study, a chromosome count was performed and L. watsoniana showed 2n = 34. A phylogenetic approach was used to clarify the relationships of the Azorean endemic L. watsoniana and the La Palma endemic L. palmensis within the subtribe Lactucinae. Maximum parsimony, Maximum likelihood and Bayesian analysis of a combined molecular dataset (ITS and four chloroplast DNA regions) and molecular clock analyses were performed with the Macaronesian Lactuca species, as well as a TCS haplotype network. The analyses revealed that L. watsoniana and L. palmensis belong to different subclades of the Lactuca clade. Lactuca watsoniana showed a strongly supported phylogenetic relationship with North American species, while L. palmensis was closely related to L. tenerrima and L. inermis, from Europe and Africa. Lactuca watsoniana showed four single-island haplotypes. A divergence time estimation of the Macaronesian lineages was used to examine island colonization pathways. Results obtained with BEAST suggest a divergence of L. palmensis and L. watsoniana clades c. 11 million years ago, L. watsoniana diverged from its North American sister species c. 3.8 million years ago and L. palmensis diverged from its sister L. tenerrima, c. 1.3 million years ago, probably originating from an African ancestral lineage which colonized the Canary Islands. Divergence analyses with *BEAST indicate a more recent divergence of the L. watsoniana crown, c. 0.9 million years ago. In the Azores colonization, in a stepping stone, east-to-west dispersal pattern, associated with geological events might explain the current distribution range of L. watsoniana.

5 illus, 2 tables, 106 ref

026444   MISHRA D, NAOREM K, SARASWATHY K N (Anthropology Dep, Delhi Univ, New Delhi - 110 007, Email: knsaraswathy@yahoo.com) : Angiotensin-converting enzyme gene insertion/ deletion polymorphism and cardiometabolic risk factors: A study among Bhil tribal population from two environmental settings. Biochem Genet 2018, 56(4), 295–314.

Studies have investigated the association between angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) gene insertion/deletion (I/D) polymorphism and cardiometabolic risk factors (CMRFs), however with varying results, which could be due to ethnicity differences. Therefore, the present study was conducted among Bhil tribal population (a mendelian population with the common gene pool and same sociocultural attributes), residing in two different environmental settings. The study attempts to understand the distribution and extent of association of ACE I/D gene polymorphism with cardiometabolic risk factors among Bhils from rural and urban settings. All the obesity and blood pressure variables were collected form 432 recruited subjects from both sexes aged 25–65 years and ACE I/D polymorphism was analysed on 299 subjects. Almost all the studied CMRFs were found to be significantly higher among urban Bhils. ACE gene was found to be polymorphic in the studied groups. DD genotype was found to pose more than threefold significant risk for low HDLC only in rural area. Estimate change analysis revealed an increasing D allele dose leads to more than one unit increase in Blood Pressure, and more than three units decrease in HDLC. The study highlights the differential effect of ACE I/D gene polymorphism in different environmental settings.

7 tables, 55 ref

026443   BANERJEE A, ISLAM M M, DAS M, CHAKRABARTY S, CHOWDHURY S, SARKAR S (Veterinary Pathology Dep, West Bengal Animal and Fishery Sciences Univ, Kolkata- 700 037, Email: aniruddhabanerjee58@gmail.com) : Hemato-biochemical alterations associated with malignant mammary tumours in canine. Environ Ecol 2018, 36(3), 860-3.

The present study conducted to determine the usefulness of hemato-biochemical study as a reliable prognostic factor in canine malignant mammary  tumour. A total twenty-six (26) bitches aged 8-10 years  with malignant mammary tumours were studied. Hematological parameters like hemoglobin (Hb), Packed Cell Volume (PCV), Total Erythrocyte Count (TEC) and Biochemical parameters viz. Serum Total Protein (STP), Albumin, Globulin, Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT),  Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) and Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were calculated in Semi-Auto analyzer. The results showed a significant (p<0.01) decrease level in Hb, PCV, TEC, STP and Albumin concentration.  A significantly (p<0.01) higher level were found in Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and Globulin concentration. Based on the present study  it can be concluded that Hematobiochemical alteration in the bitches with malignant mammary tumour might serve as a parameter for the objective evaluation of understanding of the extent of effect of the tumour on the patient.

1 illus, 1 table, 20 ref

026442   KUDADA N, KUMARI N, SAURABH A (Plant Pathology Dep, Birsa Agricultural Univ, Ranchi- 834 006, Email: narendra.kudada2701@gmail.com) : Effect of single or combined substrates or substrates enriched with vermicompost on growth parameters and yield of Calocybe indica. Environ Ecol 2018, 36(3), 788-93.

An experiment was conducted to know the effect of single or combined substrates or substrates enriched with vermicompost on growth parameter and yield of Calocybe indica. The treatments viz., Wheat straw (WS) only, Paddy straw (PS) only, 75 % WS + 25 % Vermicompost (VC), 50 % WS + 50 % VC, 75 % PS + 25 % VC, 50 % PS + 50 % VC and 25 % WS + 25 % PS + 50 % VC were included. Minimum spawn run days (19.00 days), pinhead initiation after casing (5.33 days), days for first harvest (5 days), maximum number of pinhead/bed (24.33), number of sporophore/bed (16.00), yield/bed (1696.48 g) and maximum biological efficiency (113.09 %) were recorded by the treatment T4 containing 50 % WS + 50 % VC. Lowest yield and biological efficiency was observed in the treatment T2 containg paddy straw only with 1297.83 g and 86.52 %, respectively.

3 illus, 3 tables, 6 ref

026441   ADIKWU E, BOKOLO B (Pharmacology and Toxicology Dep, Niger Delta Univ, Nigeria, Email: adikwuelias@gmail.com) : Effect of cimetidine on cyclophosphamide induced liver toxicity in albino rats. Asian J Med Sci 2018, 9(5), 50-6.

The clinical use of cyclophosphamide (CP) has been characterised by liver toxicity. This research assessed the effect of cimetidine against CP-induced liver toxicity in a rat model. Forty eight albino rats divided into 8 groups (A-H) of 6 rats per group were used for this study. Group A (control) was administered with water while groups B-D were administered with 5, 10, and 20 mg/kg/ day of cimetidine intraperitoneally (ip) for 5 days respectively. Group E was administered with 150 mg/kg of CP ip on the 5th day whereas groups F-H were administered with 5 10, and 20 mg/kg/day of cimetidine for 5 days and CP ip on the 5th day. Rats were subjected to an overnight fast and sacrificed on the sixth day. Serum was extracted from blood and liver function parameters were evaluated. Liver was excised and evaluated for biochemical parameters and histology. CP treatment had no significant (P>0.05) effects on body and liver weights, but significant (P<0.05) increases in alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, aspartate aminotransferase, lactate dehydrogenase, gamma, glatamyl transferase, total bilirubin, conjugated bilirubin and malondialdehyde levels were observed when compared to control. Furthermore, significant (P<0.05) decreases in liver superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione and glutathione peroxidase were obtained in CP-administered rats when compared to control. The Liver of CP-treated rat shows hepatocyte necrosis around the central veins. However, CP-induced liver damage was significantly (P<0.05; 0.01) ameliorated in a dose-dependent manner in rats administered with cimetidine prior to the administration of CP. Cimetidine ameliorates cyclophosphamide-induced liver toxicity in albino rats.

1 illus, 4 tables, 44 ref

026440   ADIKWU E, BOKOLO B (Pharmacology and Toxicology Dep, Niger Delta Univ, Nigeria, Email: adikwuelias@gmail.com) : Ethanolic leaf extract of Ocimum gratissimum ameliorates methotrexate-induced nephrotoxicity in albino rats. Asian J Med Sci 2018, 9(5), 37-43.

Nephrotoxicity is a common adverse effect of methotrexate (MTX). Ocimum gratisimum (OG) has lots of phytochemical constituents with medicinal uses. This study assessed the benefit of ethanolic leaf extract of OG (EEOG)  against a rat model of MTX-induced nephrotoxicity. Fifty four adult albino rats randomized into 9 groups A-I of six rats per group were used for this study. Groups A and B were treated with water and corn oil as placebo and solvent control respectively. Groups C-E were treated with 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg of EEOG daily for 5 days. Group F was treated with 20mg/kg of EEOG MTX intraperiotoneally on the 5th day while groups G-I were orally pretreated with 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg of EEOG daily for 5 days and 20 mg/kg EEOG of MTX on the 5th day. Rats were weighed, sacrificed and serum was extracted and evaluated  for renal function parameters. Kidneys were excised and evaluated for oxidative stress indices and histology. Treatment with MTX did not produce significant (p>0.05) effects on  body and kidney weights, however, creatinine, urea, uric acid, sodium, potassium, chloride, bicarbonate and malondialdehyde levels were significantly (p<0.05) increased in MTX-treated  rats when compared to control. Furthermore, superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione, glutathione peroxidase, total protein, and albumin levels were significantly (p<0.05) decreased  in MTX-treated rats when compared to control. However, MTX-induced nephrotoxic effects were significantly (p<0.05) abrogated in EEOG pretreated rats in a dose-dependent manner. Ethanolic leaf extract of Ocimum gratissimum contains phytochemicals that could serve as remedy for methotrexate associated nephrotoxicity.

1 illus, 4 tables, 45 ref

026439   NAYAK S R, PRABHU L V, RAGHUVEER C V (Anatomy Dep, Medicine of Coll & J.N.M. Hospital, West Bengal- 741 235, Email: ranjanbhatana@gmail.com) : Effects of quinine sulfate- An antimalarial drug on palatal growth in developing mice embryo: A histopathological study. Asian J Med Sci 2018, 9(5), 31-6.

Malaria is one of the most common infectious and fatal diseases worldwide. Quinine sulfate is one of the antimalarial drug used to treat chloroquine resistant malaria and malaria falciparum. The present study was designed to assess its developmental defects on mice palate. Thirty adult pregnant female Swiss albino mice were used in the present work. They were divided into five groups of six each. One control group (c) with 6 pregnant mice received normal saline orally from day 6 to 15 of gestation. Four treated groups of 6 pregnant mice each were formed. Treated groups T1, T2, T3 and T4 were administered Quinine sulfateorally with 50, 100, 200, 400 mg/kg bw/day from day 6 to 15 of gestation respectively. No palatal abnormalities were observed histologically in the control and T1 treated group. However, varying degrees of clefting of the palate, from failure of elevation of the palatal shelves to failure of fusion in the midline were observed in the Quinine sulfate treated groups (T2, T3 & T4). Quinine sulfate induced defects in the developing palate in the present study by disturbing the process of palatogenesis, which is characterized by incomplete growth, elevation or fusion of the palatal shelves.

3 illus, 2 tables, 39 ref

026438   MACKIC-DJUROVIC M, RUKAVINA D, AHMETAS L (Sarajevo Univ, Bosnia, Email: mirelamd@yahoo.com) : Genetic causes of reproductive problems in the Bosnian women population. Asian J Med Sci 2018, 9(5), 12-6.

The causes of infertility and recurrent spontaneous abortions are diverse and numerous – including non-genetic and genetic factors – whereby the importance of genetic factors in pathogenesis of infertility is becoming more and more common. Chromosomal abnormalities and genetic defects can cause reproduction failures, and for this reason genetic analysis can play an important role in reproductive problems research. This study aims to determine the type and frequency of chromosomal aberrations in the female population sample, as well as to determine if the difference between groups with and without chromosomal aberrations was statistically significant. One hundred women aged 15-46 were included in the study, all having different reproductive disorder diagnoses and requiring karyotype analysis in the Sarajevo Medical Faculty Genetic Center. Cytogenetic analysis was performed on the peripheral blood, which was cultured for four days, using GTG banding forchromosomal analysis. Out of 100 women included in the study, an abnormal karyotype was found in 16 of them (16 %). The difference between the frequency of normal and abnormal karyotype in women with reproductive problems identified in this study was found to be statistically significant. The pattern of chromosomal aberrations was similar to that reported in the previous cytogenetic studies with similar inclusion criteria. This fact should be taken in the consideration in order to estimate true etiology of reproductive problems and it is a valuable information in the process of genetic counseling and decision making in assisted reproductive technology.

1 illus, 2 tables, 15 ref

026437   JAYAPRAKASH T (Anatomy Dep, Father Muller Medical Coll, Karnataka, Email: jp79@rediffmail.com) : Morphologic study of nutrient foramina in dried femurs. J Evolution Med Dent Sci 2018, 7(35), 3910-2.

Diaphyseal fractures of femur are common cases in Orthopaedics and Traumatology Department. Vascularised bone graft is the preferred method used in bone reconstruction, as it ensures the survival of both donor and recipient bones. Position and direction of nutrient foramina in long bones of lower limbs varies from region to region, race and species. The descriptive study comprised of observation of Diaphyseal Nutrient Foramina (DNF) of 50 adult dried femurs. DNF was identified by their elevated margins and by the presence of a distinct groove proximal to them. Foramina equal to or larger than 24 hypodermic needle size were included. Foramen Index (FI) was calculated using Hughes formula. 28 (56 %) bones showed single nutrient foramen, 21 (42 %) bones showed double nutrient foramina. Nutrient foramen was absent in one bone. Majority of nutrient foramina were found on the linea aspera and posterior medial surface and least on the lateral surface, whereas none were found on the anterior surface. The mean foramen index was 44.07. The anterior and lateral surfaces of femur are safe for orthopaedic manipulations due to scarcity of nutrient foramina on these surfaces. 

2 illus, 3 tables, 10 ref

026436   NAYAK G, PRADHAN S, PANDA S K, CHINARA P K (Anatomy Dep, Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan (Deemed to be Univ), Odisha, Email: drgrn82@gmail.com) : Anatomical study of foramen vesalius. J Evolution Med Dent Sci 2018, 7(35), 3847-50.

Foramen Vesalius or emissary sphenoidal foramen is a variant foramen in middle cranial fossa and connects the pterygoid venous plexus with cavernous sinus by an emissary vein, which passes through it. This can serve as a probable route of spread of infection from facial vein and other extracranial veins to the cavernous sinus. The descriptive study included thirty dried, adult human skulls of unknown age and sex. They were studied macroscopically for the presence of foramen Vesalius. The maximum diameter of the foramen was measured using digital Vernier calliper. The distance of Foramen Vesalius from ipsilateral foramen ovale was measured as well. The shape of the foramen was also noted. The incidence of foramen Vesalius was found to be 30 % in the current study (20 % bilateral and 10 % unilateral). The mean maximum diameter of foramen Vesalius was found to be 1.13 ± 0.30 mm on the right side and 1.38 ± 0.33 mm on the left side. The average distance of foramen Vesalius from ipsilateral foramen ovale was determined to be 1.42 ± 0.19 mm on the right side and 2.17 ± 0.28 mm on the left side. All the foramina in the study were irregular in shape. The findings of the study will be vital in anatomy, anthropology and surgical practice.

2 illus, 3 tables, 20 ref

026435   HEMAT C S (Anatomy Dep, GMC, Maharashtra, Email: sundip.charmode@yahoo.com) : Association of parental socioeconomic status and age with consanguinity- A systematic review. J Evolution Med Dent Sci 2018, 7(34), 3799-803.

Consanguineous marriages are common in India, particularly in southern states and Muslim communities. As far as worldwide scenario is concerned in North and sub-Saharan Africa as well as West, Central and South Asia, around 20 % to 50 % of marriages are consanguineous. Consanguinity is influenced by many socioeconomic factors. Higher rates of consanguinity generally are reported in rural areas, among women who have low education and lower socioeconomic status and with younger age at marriage. Consanguineous unions lead to increased inheritance of autosomal recessive genes, thereby resulting in offspring with congenital defects than compared to non-consanguineous unions. To control the genetic burden of society, it has become increasingly important to spread the awareness regarding this among communities and regions having higher incidence of consanguineous marriages. There is a need to study associated factors like socioeconomic status, age, parity and religion in relation to their influence on incidence of consanguineous unions. Many authors have worked on the same subject and concluded different findings as their studies varied in study location, study population, study design, methodology etc. In this review article, we have done a detailed analysis of old and recent articles addressing the effect of socio-economic status and age on occurrence of consanguineous marriages. To assess the association of parental socio-economic status and age with the occurrence of consanguineous unions. An online search was initiated in databases like PubMed, Medline, Cochrane library, Embase, Medline plus, Science Direct, Web of Science, Google Scholar for old and recent articles studying Association of Parental Socioeconomic Status and Age on Consanguinity. Medical terms like consanguinity, congenital defects, socioeconomic status, parental age etc. were used to search the articles. Around 22 articles were found since 1958 till date. Amongst 22 articles, fifteen articles having significant conclusions were shortlisted and their results were analysed, compared with other articles and also with the author’s own study. 1 The shortlisting was done by going through the abstract/ full article of all the articles. Study Settings and Design- ESIC Medical College and Hospital, Gulbarga, Systematic Review article. Almost all studies have concluded that incidence of consanguineous marriage is more common in lower socio-economic class. Lower the age of female or male, more is the possibility of them to undergo consanguineous union. These observations are consistent in studies conducted in various regions of the world and amongst various communities, although the incidence varies. Observations regarding association of maternal age and socio-economic status with consanguinity were statistically significant more often than those regarding association of paternal age and socio-economic status with consanguinity. Hence, female education needs to be encouraged followed by strong measures ensuring her socio-economic stability. Awareness regarding harmful genetic effects of consanguineous unions should be spread profusely amongst highly prevalent regions and communities. 1. Increased incidence of consanguineous unions is observed amongst parents of lower socio-economic status. 2. Increased incidence of consanguineous unions is observed amongst couples marrying at a younger age. 3. Consanguineous unions result in increased incidence of premature births, perinatal mortality and congenitally anomalous offspring. 4. Consanguineous unions results in increased incidence of low birth weight offspring and those with lower anthropometric values.

2 tables, 24 ref

026434   THAPA R, SALDANHA S, PRAKASH R (Hospital Administration Dep, Yenepoya Medical Coll, Karnataka, Email: kusumradhathapa@gmail.com) : Application of Lean Six-Sigma approach to reduce biomedical equipments breakdown time and associated defects. J Evolution Med Dent Sci 2018, 7(34), 3771-9.

Lean Six Sigma is an advanced methodology of quality management and quality improvement. Lean Six Sigma implementation in equipment maintenance can be a good solution, which can reduce the waste and variation through the DMAIC cycle. It is a need of time to adopt Lean Six Sigma methodology at all the levels of healthcare ubiquitously, since this methodology has worked wonders in other sectors like information technology, industry, education, both online and offline retail market, manufacturing etc. Biomedical equipments are the blood vessels of the hospital and it must be made sure that the critical medical devices are safe, accurate, reliable and operating at the required level of performance consistently by reduction of breakdown time and associated defects by adopting Lean Six Sigma approach. The objective of the study is to reduce the biomedical equipments breakdown time and associated defects by using Lean Six Sigma approach. This study was conducted at Yenepoya Medical College Hospital, Mangalore, India over a period of 15 months (March 2017-May 2018) over ninety-nine biomedical equipments in operation at Medical Intensive Care Unit. This study design is experimental. The objective was achieved by using popular DMAIC methodology. The breakdown time reduced from 19165.83 minutes/month to an average of 14.5 minutes/month after application of Lean Six Sigma. Similarly, the average number of associated defects reduced from 40 defects/month to 6 defects/month. The Sigma level improved from 1.66 to 4.94 levels. Lean Six Sigma approach is an effective and eloquent application in improving the biomedical equipment’s maintenance. Lean Six Sigma approach can be adopted at various levels of healthcare system to increase the productivity, cost-effectiveness which enhances the healthcare service.

7 illus, 6 tables, 12 ref

026433   MANGLA V (Dermatology Dep, SRMSIMS, Uttar Pradesh, Email: vm_17.75@rediff.com) : Epidemiological trend in superficial fungal infections at a tertiary centre in western Uttar Pradesh, India. J Evolution Med Dent Sci 2018, 7(34), 3754-8.

It is an indisputable fact that there is an increase in the prevalence of dermatophytosis over the past 4 - 5 years across the country (Prevalence rate= 27.6 % in India and 29.6 % outside India). However, the current perception among practicing Indian Dermatologists is that among outpatients there is a huge change in clinical profile, both qualitative and quantitative. The study was aimed at studying different epidemiological factors, which influence or are likely to influence superficial fungal infections. This was a descriptive study. Patients with suspected dermatophytoses attending the Dermatology Department of SRMS Hospital, Bareilly were enrolled in the study. A detailed history, clinical examination and sample collection for mycological examinations were done. Out of 600 patients screened, 150 patients were finally enrolled who fulfilled all inclusion criteria and exclusion criteria. Our study is a comparative analysis with studies done in other parts of the country to the trends in Western Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand on dermatophytosis and superficial fungal infection. Subjects in the age group 21-30 years, service personnel and subjects from upper socio-economic status were more predisposed to superficial fungal infections.

7 illus, 10 tables, 24 ref

026432   HEMANT C S, HUCHECHESHA K (Anatomy Dep, Government Medical Coll, Karnataka, Email: sundip.charmode@yahoo.com) : Consanguinity and risk of congenital defects- A systematic review. J Evolution Med Dent Sci 2018, 7(31), 3552-9.

Consanguineous unions are associated with an increased susceptibility to various forms of autosomal recessive inherited disease. The role of consanguinity in causation of congenital defects is not clear, as various genetic as well as environmental/ epigenetic factors are involved in their aetiology. In this study, we analysed the effect of consanguinity as a risk factor in occurrence ofccongenital defects. Systematically reviewed recent and past studies with different designs, methodologies conducted in different regions of world on the same subject and compared their conclusions. The reasons and incidence of consanguineous unions, types of consanguineous unions were assessed. Settings and Design- ESIC Medical, Gulbarga, Department of Anatomy, Systematic Review Article. Almost all studies support the view that congenital defects occur commonly in consanguineous couples than non-consanguineous couples, but the study designs varied significantly. Congenital malformations occur more commonly in consanguineous couples than non-consanguineous couples with first cousins being the commonest type. The available articles have inadequately studied the actual (genetic) role of consanguinity in causation of congenital anomalies with multifactorial aetiology. There is a need of large population-based studies determining influence of consanguinity on occurrence of chromosomal abnormalities, thereby resulting in congenital anomalies.

3 tables, 38 ref

026431   BOSE M, BASU R (Microbiology Dep, Murshidabad Medical Coll, Kolkata- 700 078, Email: microbiofaculty@gmail.com) : Antibiotic resistance pattern of urinary isolates in a tertiary care hospital in Berhampore, West Bengal. J Evolution Med Dent Sci 2018, 7(31), 3466-71.

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is one of the commonest infections worldwide and a major public health problem. It may be caused by almost all known bacterial pathogens. A wide range of antibiotics are available for its treatment. In majority of the cases, antibiotic therapy is started empirically without waiting for the report of urine culture. Therefore, it becomes mandatory to determine the bacteriological profile of uropathogens in a particular region and their antimicrobial resistance pattern, so as to ensure the selection of an effective empirical treatment. This was a retrospective descriptive study. In this study of one-year duration, 3192 urine samples were processed. Age and gender were recorded from patients’ data. Urine culture was performed by conventional methods and the isolates were identified by standard microbiological techniques and conventional biochemical methods. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was done by Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. 703 samples yielded growth, of which 68.14 % were from females and 31.86 % were from males. The most commonly isolated pathogen was Escherichia coli (35.13 %) followed by Klebsiella spp. (27.88 %). Escherichia coli exhibited lowest resistance to Imipenem (1 %) followed by nitrofurantoin (19 %). Klebsiella spp. exhibited lowest resistance to Imipenem (1 %) followed by piperacillin/ tazobactam (27 %). The organisms were highly resistant to ticarcillin/ clavulanic acid (82 % - 85 %). Pseudomonas spp. showed highest resistance to ceftazidime (86.7 %). They were least resistant to piperacillin/ tazobactam (6.7 %) followed by Imipenem (13.3 %). Enterococcus spp. was least resistant to linezolid (2.2 %). They were highly resistant to Penicillin (92.8 %), aminoglycosides, macrolides, fluoroquinolones and tetracycline. 14.5 % of isolates exhibited vancomycin resistance. Staphylococcus aureus isolates showed least resistance to Imipenem (2.6 %). 43.6 % of the isolates were vancomycin resistant. As the distribution of urinary pathogens and their resistance pattern to antibiotics vary from one region to another, it is necessary to determine the most common uropathogens in a particular area and their resistance pattern so as to develop effective antibiotic policies and design a rational empirical therapy so that the best empirical therapy can be chosen, thus preventing the indiscriminate use of antibiotics and development of antimicrobial resistance.

8 illus, 2 tables, 30 ref

026430   HALDER A C, DE A, LAHIRI S K (Anatomy Dep, Coll of Medicine and Sagore Dutta Hospital, Kolkata- 700 054, Email: drarpitachat@ymail.com) : Distribution of blood group in blood donor population in West Bengal. J Evolution Med Dent Sci 2018, 7(31), 3445-7.

The ABO blood group and Rh type is unique to every single individual. Prevalence of blood groups of all four types is different in various regions of this world. The present study is intended to detect the prevalence of blood group among blood donors in West Bengal, the eastern state of India. Blood donors donating blood to Institute of Blood Transfusion Medicine and Immunohaematology (IBTMI), Kolkata, West Bengal are studied. Over 2 lac blood donors for more than 2 years are tested for blood group and Rh type. Donors are categorised according to sex and the prevalence of blood group is tested. Data collected by IBTMI is used as secondary data. The study results show the prevalence of blood group in this region as B > O > A > AB. The percentages of B +ve, O +ve, A +ve and AB +ve are 35.6 %, 30.7 %, 21.84 % and 8.82 %. The prevalence of Rh negative type is 2.96 % (average). These are found to be similar in both sexes. As different parts of the world have different distribution of blood group, the distribution of blood group in this particular part of the country is determined. This improves our knowledge on prevalence of blood group in the region of the country we live in.

4 illus, 4 tables, 8 ref

026429   GUPTA G, ARORA M (Anatomy Dep, RNT Medical Coll, Udaipur- 313 001, Email: aroramanali3@gmail.com) : Association of orofacial features of β-thalassemia major patients. J Evolution Med Dent Sci 2018, 7(30), 3409-11.

Patients with β-thalassemia major or Cooley’s anaemia will have severe anaemia, which triggers several defence mechanisms in the body, the most significant of which is the expansion of bone marrow. This expansion of bone marrow in turn forces the bones to expand, produces deformities of the skull and face bones. The purpose of this study was to find out the relationship between different orofacial parameters of labio-oral region in patients with β-thalassemia major and to identify differences by comparing them with age and sex matched controls. A case-control study was carried out in 400 study participants (200 cases and 200 controls). Mouth breadth (ch-ch), Height of integumental lips (ls-li) and Height of the total upper lip (sn-sto) of all the study participants were measured. All the measurements used in the present study except height of integumental lips were found significantly associated in sex-wise subgroups as well as in overall study group. The result of the present study increased our knowledge about orofacial anatomy of β-thalassemia major patients and enabled us to achieve quantitative results.

2 illus, 4 tables, 6 ref

026428   TEJ M A S, SREEDEVI S, KUMAR G L S S, BALAKRISHNA J, SIREESHA S N, SEHER S M (Microbiology Dep, Santhiram Medical Coll and General Hospital, Andhra Pradesh, Email: anandstej@gmail.com) : Antibiotic susceptibility patterns of aerobic bacterial isolates causing wound infections among the patients attending to Santhiram General Hospital, Nandyal. J Evolution Med Dent Sci 2018, 7(30), 3360-4.

The increasing trends in the rate of the antibiotic resistance have now become a serious and an increasingly common concern with severe implications, especially in the surgical departments. These multidrug resistance patterns which include ESBLs, AmpC ßlactamases and metallo-ß-lactamases have emerged as the most worrisome mechanisms of resistance among the gram-negative bacteria, which pose a therapeutic challenge to the healthcare settings. This descriptive study was undertaken to evaluate the profile of aerobic pyogenic bacteria in various pus isolates along with the changing trends in antimicrobial resistance in a tertiary hospital in Nandyal from January 2017 to December 2017. A total of 283 bacterial isolates from 577 clinical samples, which were received over a period of one year were processed. After their identification and their antimicrobial susceptibility testing, they were then screened for the multidrug resistance. Among the 283 isolates, most predominant organism was Escherichia coli 63 (22.18 %) followed by Pseudomonas aeruginosa 60 (21.13 %) and Staphylococcus aureus 58 (20.42 %). The antibiogram of gram-positive cocci revealed that they were most susceptible to Vancomycin (100 %) and Linezolid (100 %). Gram-negative Bacilli are susceptible to Imipenem (96.23 %), Cefoperazone + Sulbactam (77.22 %) and Netilmicin (75.47 %). Of the 212 gram-negative isolates, 143 (67.45 %) were ESBL producers followed by 36 (16.98 %) AmpC producers and 7 (3.30 %) metallo-β-lactamase (MBL) producers. The major ESBL and AmpC producer was Klebsiella pneumoniae, while the MBL production was mainly observed in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The high prevalence of the multidrug resistant isolates emphasises the need for a continuous surveillance in the healthcare settings to detect the resistant strains, strict guidelines for the antibiotic therapy and the implementation of infection control measures to reduce the increasing burden of antibiotic resistance. 

6 illus, 8 tables, 14 ref

026427   BHATTACHARYYA I, DASGUPTA S, BERA D K (Microbiology Dep, Basirhat Superspeciality Hospital, Kolkata- 700 055, Email: soumyadgoptimus@gmail.com) : An unusual spurt of Salmonella enterica serovar Paratyphi B infection detected in a tertiary care hospital in Kolkata. J Evolution Med Dent Sci 2018, 7(29), 3329-31.

Salmonella enterica serovar Paratyphi B is a member of the genus Salmonella of the Enterobacteriaceae family. They cause enteric fever as well as gastroenteritis in humans. Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi and Salmonella enterica serovar Paratyphi A are the predominant types of Salmonella responsible for enteric fever in India. However, this study is based on an unusual spurt of Salmonella enterica serovar Paratyphi B infection, which had not been isolated in our laboratory for last four years. Blood cultures were taken from the patients. After incubation, routine subculture was done on MacConkey agar and blood agar media. Relevant biochemical tests were done for identification of the growth followed by agglutination for serotyping. Finally, antibiotic sensitivity tests were done. The causative organism was diagnosed as Salmonella enterica serovar Paratyphi B by blood culture, biochemical tests and serotyping. No major drug resistance was detected. Salmonella enterica serovar Paratyphi B is an uncommon cause of enteric fever. We must keep our eyes and ears open every time we isolate non-lactose fermenting gram-negative bacilli from blood or stool. Unless this awareness is maintained, these infections will be very difficult to contain and will become a serious problem in the near future.

3 illus, 8 ref

026426   TUPAKULA G, RAO K, VARSHITH V K (Microbiology Dep, ACSR Government Medical Coll, Nellore- 524 004, Email: drgeeta1129@gmail.com) : Characterisation of Coagulase-Negative Staphylococci (CoNS) isolated from patients with urinary tract infections. J Evolution Med Dent Sci 2018, 7(29), 3325-8.

Species of CoNS have important traits and are frequently associated with various kinds of infections that are manifested clinically. The present study was undertaken to determine the bacterial profile of Urinary Tract Infections (UTI) caused by CoNS and to assess their antibiotic susceptibility pattern. The general principles of collection, transport and storage of specimens are applied. 500 fresh midstream urine samples studied which were collected over a 10-month period from the women and men with a complaint of dysuria who visited the Medical, Surgical and Gynaecological Outpatient Departments of MGM Hospital, Warangal were included in the study. All clinical specimens were processed as per the standard laboratory procedures. Antibiotic susceptibility patterns were determined by Kirby Bauer’s disc diffusion method as per CLSI guidelines. Out of 500 urine samples tested, 90 (18 %) isolates were coagulase-negative staphylococci and the predominant species was S. saprophyticus. Antibiotic susceptibility testing showed Penicillin resistance of 80 %, Amoxicillin resistance of 82.35 % and Cephalexin resistance of 58.33 %, while majority isolates were sensitive to Vancomycin, Gentamicin and Co-trimoxazole. The results of the present study show that among the species of CoNS, S. saprophyticus is a major pathogen causing urinary tract infections. It should be supported by antimicrobial susceptibility testing, to prevent the spread of resistant isolates and to promote rational prescribing practices of the antibiotics in that region.

4 tables, 19 ref

026425   DEVI Y A, DEVI K R, KEISAM A, MAYANGLAM S (Physiology Dep, JNIMS, Porompat- 795 005, Email: keisamreetu@yahoo.co.in) : Association of thyroid function with BMI, body fat % and visceral fat level in healthy euthyroid individuals. J Evolution Med Dent Sci 2018, 7(29), 3270-4.

Obesity is known to be associated with altered thyroid function, increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, insulin resistance and metabolic disorders. Thyroid hormones affect body weight through modification of basal metabolic rate. The study aims to assess the BMI and correlate with TSH, f T3, f T4, body fat % and visceral fat level in healthy euthyroid individuals to see if any association between obesity and thyroid status exists. This study was conducted on 92 healthy volunteers amongst the staffs of Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences (JNIMS), Imphal, Manipur. Anthropometric measurements were done and Body Mass Index (BMI) was calculated. Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH), f T3 and f T4 levels were measured by using chemiluminescent immunoassay and subjects with TSH value between 0.3 - 3.6 mIU/L were taken for the study. Body fat % and visceral fat level were measured by Bioelectrical Impedance (BI) method by using OMRON-HBF-212 (Body Composition Monitor). Data was analysed using SPSS version 22. The association between variables was determined using ANOVA. The study showed significant association of TSH (p= 0.025), body fat % (p= 0.000) and visceral fat level (p= 0.000) with BMI. There was no statistically significant association between body fat % and TSH, f T3, f T4. There was significant association between visceral fat level and f T3. Serum TSH level increases with increase in fat content of the body, even if the upper limit of TSH is within normal limits. This increased level of body fat % and visceral fat level in obese euthyroid individuals may lead to increased risk for development of obesity related common health problems, thus arising the need to keep the body weight, body fat % and visceral fat level at an acceptable level.

5 tables, 36 ref

026424   HOSSEIN M, HOSSEIN A, MOHSEN T, JAMILEH J, MOHADESE M, MAHNAZ M (Qom of Medical Sciences Univ, Kashan, Iran, Email: dr.jahangirian@gmail.com) : Evaluation of the effects of capsules containing Tribulus terrestris extract and L-carnitine on treatment of oligospermia in males. J Evolution Med Dent Sci 2018, 7(29), 3266-9.

Infertility is defined as failure to achieve pregnancy after one year of unprotected sexual intercourse. Male infertility is one of the most challenging problems in andrology. The common cause of male infertility is related to disorders in sperm production. In this study for the first time, effect of combination Tribulus terrestris extract and L-carnitine on sperm parameters of infertile men were reviewed. This double-blind study was conducted on 61 men, 25 to 40 years old with infertility due to sperm abnormalities on semen analysis parameters (Criteria WHO). They were randomly assigned to two groups of 350 mg herbal capsules containing Tribulus terrestris extract + L-carnitine (Intervention) or 350 mg placebo capsules (Control) 4 times a day for 3 months. At the beginning and end of the study, semen analysis and serum levels of FSH, LH and testosterone were evaluated, and results were compared between the groups with baseline. The results showed that after three months of intervention in control group, no significant change in semen analysis parameters and levels of FSH, LH and testosterone happened (p > 0.5). In the intervention group, only Progressive index in semen analysis (28.6 vs 33.2) from baseline showed statistically significant changes (p=0.033). The difference of efficacy between intervention and control groups before and after the study was not significant in any of the parameters. Based on the results of this study, treatment with herbal capsule containing Tribulus terrestris extract and L-carnitine for three months in the improvement of abnormal sperm parameters in infertile men is not effective. 

3 tables, 24 ref

026423   SARWAR M Y, YASMIN T, SINHA S K (Microbiology Dep, Katihar Medical Coll, Katihar - 854 105, Email: drtyasmin@gmail.com) : Variation in shape, weight and number of cotyledons of placentae in Kosi region of Bihar, North East India. J Evolution Med Dent Sci 2018, 7(27), 3134-7.

Placenta serves the most basic metabolic needs of foetus including respiration, nourishment and excretion. It forms an organ for interchange of material between foetus and maternal blood stream without mixing or physical contact of two blood streams. The formation of placenta is a biological event, which is important both embryologically and immunologically. Placenta is a choriodecidual structure which develops during pregnancy and lies implanted on the uterine wall near the fundus. It is connected to the foetus through the umbilical cord. A maternal surface is dull red in colour and is divided by septa into number of irregular quadrilateral lobes termed cotyledons. These septa consist of fibrous tissue with sparse vessels confined to their bases. Placental shape, weight and number of cotyledons varied in different population. It can determine the extent of the health of new born. The placenta produces hormones that play a role in maintaining pregnancy. The objectives of this study were to compare placental shape, measuring weight and to count the number of cotyledons in each placenta and to have a better concept about maternal well-being and infant health which helps in reducing. Fresh, intact 150 placentae were collected from labour room of Katihar Medical College and Hospital during a period of two years in Kosi region of Bihar, North East India. The study was done in Anatomy Department of Katihar Medical College by observation, dissection and weight measuring methods. Photographs of placentae obtained from full term deliveries (normal/Caesarean section) were taken. After proper washing with distilled water, removal of blood clots was done with digital pressure applied over arteries and veins and later on irrigation was done. Shape, weight and no. of cotyledons of placentae were observed and recorded. After proper cleaning and dissection, a total of 150 placentas were examined in the present work. Variation in placental shape, weight and no. of cotyledons were found, noted and photographs taken. The main aim of this study was to find variation in morphology in pregnancy especially shape, weight and no. of cotyledons of placenta. The study was undertaken on placenta obtained from Department of OBG, KMC, Katihar. A total of 150 placentae were examined in Anatomy Dept., KMC. The present study showed most of the placentae were round, oval or irregularly circular. Maximum number of placentae, 46 % was round with periphery thinner than centre. Most of the placentae had weight range between 300 - 600 gm. Maximum was 760 gm and minimum was 240 gm. Number of cotyledons on maternal surface varied between 11 - 20. Maximum number of cotyledons was 30 and minimum was 6. The studies of placentae give the information of prenatal exposure of infant.

3 tables , 20 ref

026422   NAGPAL S, OBEROI A (Microbiology Dep, Christian Medical Coll and Hospital, Ludhiana-141 008, Email: draromaoberoi@yahoo.com) : Seropositivity of IgM dengue (ELISA) among suspected cases of dengue- a study from tertiary care centre in Punjab. J Evolution Med Dent Sci 2018, 7(21), 2555-7.

Dengue fever is the most common cause of arboviral disease worldwide. In India and other tropical countries, it remains an important differential diagnosis for a febrile illness. The disease burden is growing very fast in various countries including India. This study was done to find the seropositivity of Dengue (IgM Dengue by ELISA) in blood samples taken from suspected cases of dengue fever. This is a hospital-based descriptive study, conducted at the serology laboratory in the Department of Microbiology at a tertiary care centre from January 2017 to December 2017. Blood samples were received in the department from indoor and outpatients who were suspected to have dengue fever. A total of 1347 samples were collected in 12 months and these samples were processed for IgM Anti-Dengue antibodies (ELISA). The male-to-female ratio of suspected cases was 1.23:1. Adults constituted 855 samples, while the remaining 492 were of paediatric population. IgM Dengue ELISA was found positive in 457 samples (Positivity rate 33.92 %). Dengue positive samples were constituted by 316 adults and 141 paediatric patients giving a positivity rate of 36.95 % and 28.65 % respectively. The seropositivity among male and female was 35.12 % and 32.45 % respectively. Maximum number of dengue positive samples were detected during the month of October. Prompt diagnosis is the key to better management and decreased morbidity/ mortality. In our study, a commercial kit (Panbio IgM Dengue ELISA) was used for diagnosis of dengue fever, which showed a seropositivity of 33.92 %. Various steps at multiple levels (Curb mosquito breeding, early diagnosis and treatment) are needed to stop the growing number.

3 illus, 1 table, 17 ref

026484   SHAMIM A, SAJID M S, KHAN M N, IMRAN M, SAQIB M (Pathobiology Dep, Poonch Univ, Punjab, Pakistan, Email: asimshamimuajk@gmail.com) : Peptides isolation from crude somatic antigens of Haemonchus contortus through SDS- PAGE. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(6), 914-6.

Haemonchus (H.) contortus is a blood feeding gastrointestinal nematode, and is considered one of the major threats for goat health and production globally. Crude somatic antigens (CSA) have been reported as sources of immunogens and provide better level of immunity against gastrointestinal nematodes. The present study aimed to quantify CSA of H. contortus worms (n=25) of both sexes followed by isolation of peptides through Sodium dodecyl sulphate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and their characterization. The triturate contained proteins having concentration of 1.3 mg/ml as measured through Bradford assay. Seven different bands were appeared on gel ranging from 35 KDa to 170 KDa. The future prospects may include identification of the immunogenic peptides which can be used as vaccine candidates against H. contortus.

1 illus, 23 ref

026483   DOLEY S, INGLE V C, TEMBHURNE P A, WARKE S R, PATI P, AHMED N (Veterinary Microbiology Dep, Maharashtra Animal and Fishery Sciences Univ, Nagpur - 440 006, Email: doleysharmita1234@gmail.com) : Molecular characterization of Staphylococcus spp. isolated from respiratory tract of apparently healthy and clinically sick sheep and goat in Nagpur, India. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(6), 907-10.

Present study was undertaken to characterize Staphylococcus spp. associated with respiratory tract infection in small ruminants. A total of 139 bacterial isolates were recovered from clinically sick and apparently healthy small ruminants. The prevalence rate of Staphylococcus spp. in sick and healthy animals was 44.94 and 24 % respectively. The sensitivity pattern of selected antibiotics was similar in both clinically sick and apparently healthy animals except streptomycin and penicillin-G. PCR assay was standardized for the detection of pathogenic genes of Staphylococcus spp. viz. clfA and spa. Among 34 random isolates selected, the prevalence rate of clfA and spa gene was 79.41 and 58.82 % respectively indicating their pathogenic potential. In conclusion, Staphylococcus spp. was found to be one of the highly prevalent organism in respiratory tract infections.

2 illus, 1 table, 16 ref

026482   TAMER C, PALANCI H S, YAZICI Z, BAYRAM E, CAKMAKER M, OZAN E, KADI H, ONKOL S, GUMUSOVA S, ALBAYRAK H (Virology Dep, Ondokuz Mayis Univ, Samsun, Turkey, Email: zyazici@omu.edu.tr) : Serological data of bovine herpes virus type-1 and bovine viral diarrhea virus infections in various ruminants in small-scale farms in the Central and Eastern Black Sea Region, Turkey. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(6), 903-6.

Bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) and Bovine herpes virus type-1 (BHV-1) are economically important pathogens leading to critical health problems for widespread ruminant populations worldwide. This study was conducted in order to update the seroprevalence of both viruses in non-vaccinated ruminant breeding enterprises in the Black Sea Region of Turkey. Blood samples (n=1.025) were collected from 192 small-scale farms and were screened using a virus neutralization test. Overall percentages of BVDV and BHV-1 were 19.90 % and 13.56 %, respectively. All goat and cattle enterprises were seropositive for BVDV. Single and dual virus infections rates were 24.87 % and 5.26 % respectively. The Black Sea Region of Turkey has a great number of small-sized ruminant farms and the results confirmed that BVDV and BHV-1 viruses were still in circulation and a wide range of large and small ruminants were exposed to both viruses.

1 illus, 2 tables, 18 ref

026481   WU H, LIU J, XU G, YE Z, LIU J, YI B (Xinyang Agriculture and Forestry Univ, Xinyang- 464 000, PR China, Email: 953355126@qq.com) : Preparation and pharmacokinetics of cefquinome sulfate liposomes in goats. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(6), 893-7.

We evaluated the pharmacokinetics of cefquinome sulfate (CEF) liposomes in eight healthy goats following intramuscular administration at 4 mg/kg. The average particle diameter of CEF liposomes prepared by the ethanol injection method was 335 nm with a CEF entrapment efficiency of 69.56 %. The elimination half-life (t1/2$\mathrm{\beta }$) of CEF liposomes was 33.04 h compared with 16.21 h for CEF injected without carrier (p < 0.05). The area under the concentration curve (AUC) for CEF liposomes was approximately three-times greater than for CEF alone (P < 0.05). The time-point of maximum plasma concentration of the drug (Tp) and the maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) were 4.38 h and 1.99 ìg/mL for CEF liposomes, compared with 1.86 h and 3.55 ìg/mL for CEF without carrier, respectively.

6 illus, 4 tables, 23 ref

026480   NASEER O, KHAN J A, KHAN M S, OMER M O, AVAIS M, SOHAIL M L, SALEEM M U, SHAHID M (Clinical Medicine and Surgery Dep, The Islamia Univ of Bahawalpur, Pakistan, Email: dromersheikh@gmail.com) : Efficacy of β-glucans and manna oligosaccharides (Yeast Cell Wall) and hydrated sodium calcium aluminosilicate (HSCAS) in preventing aflatoxicosis in bovine calves. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(6), 887-92.

The objective of this study was to determine the response of bovine calves against aflatoxin B₁ (AFB₁ ) in terms of feed consumption, hematological and serum biochemical parameters and to compare the efficacy of two different mycotoxin adsorbents, in vitro and in vivo. 36 bovine calves were divided into 4 groups. Group A was fed AFB₁ added feed with the addition of $\mathrm{\beta }$-glucans and Mannan oligosaccharides (Yeast Cell Wall), group B was fed AFB₁ with hydrated sodium calcium aluminosilicate (HSCAS) and group C was fed AFB₁ contaminated feed without addition of mycotoxin binders while group D was kept as negative control. AFB₁ was given by gelatinized capsules at a dose rate of 1.0 mg/ kg/ animal/ day. Results revealed average daily feed intake (ADFI) of AFB₁ treated bovine calves significantly reduced (P < 0.05) and all hematological parameters i.e; TEC, HGB, TLC, lymphocytes, neutrophils and monocytes, MCHC, HCT and MCH decreased significantly (P < 0.05). Moreover, serum levels of AST, ALT, Creatinine and BUN were significantly increased (P < 0.05) in response to AFB₁ . When compared between groups, YCW significantly (P < 0.05) improved the feed consumption of bovine calves while HSCAS significantly reduced (P < 0.05) the AFB₁ induced deleterious alterations in hematology and serum biochemistry.

7 tables, 26 ref

026479   MIRNAWATI, CIPTAAN G, DJULARDI A (Andalas of Univ, West Sumatera, Indonesia, Email: mirnawati@ansci.unand.ac.id) : The effect of palm kernel cake fermentation with Sclerotium rolfsii by adding humic acid in broiler diets. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(6), 882-6.

An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of palm kernel cake fermentation (PKCF) with Sclerotium roflsii by adding humic acid as broiler diet on the performance of broiler. Two hundred DOC of broiler were used in this experiment and randomly assigned to five treatments (0 %, 17 %, 22 %, 27 %, 32 % palm kernel cake fermented in diets) in a completely randomized design (CRD) with four replications. The diets were formulated in iso protein 22 % and iso caloric 3000 kcal/ kg ration. The parameters of this study were feed consumption, body weight gain, feed conversion, body weight, carcass percentage of broiler. The result of this study showed that feed consumption, body weight gained, feed conversion, body weight, carcass percentage were not significantly affected (P > 0.05) by any treatment. In conclusion the palm kernel cake fermented (PKCF) by Sclerotium roflsii can be used up to 32 % in broiler diets.

3 tables, 35 ref

026478   SETHY K, BEHERA K, MISHRA S K, GUPTA S K, SAHOO N, PARHI S S, MAHAPATRA M R, KHADANGA S (Animal Nutrition Dep, Orissa Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar-751 003, Email: sgshailesh786@gmail.com) : Effect of organic zinc supplementation on growth, metabolic profile and antioxidant status of Ganjam sheep. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(6), 839-42.

Fifteen Ganjam sheep (3-4 months of age) were stratified into three equal groups and fed a basal diet consisting of concentrate mixture and paddy straw. T1 served as control (without any supplementation), T2 and T3 were supplemented with 20 and 40 mg zinc/kgDM as zinc methionine respectively. Experimental feeding continued for a period of 90 days. Blood samples were collected on 90 days of the experimental feeding. Results revealed non significant (P > 0.05) increase in body weight gain in zinc supplemented groups. Hemoglobin content, packed cell volume, glucose, total protein, albumin, globulin and urea concentration were similar (P > 0.05) among the three groups. The antioxidant enzymes concentration were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in zinc supplemented group than control. It may be concluded that supplementation of organic zinc prevents stress without affecting growth and blood chemistry of sheep.

4 tables, 25 ref

026477   RAJ M P, NAIDU G V, SRINIVAS M, RAGHUNATH M, RAO K A (Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics Dep, Sri Venkateswara Veterinary Univ, Tirupathi - 517 502, Email: praveenraj0832@gmail.com) : Effect of preovulatory follicle on fertility in Graded Murrah buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis). Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(6), 834-8.

An investigation was taken up to study the relationship of preovulatory follicle size at the time of first postpartum AI and CL biometry with conception using transrectal ultrasonography in 70 parous Graded Murrah buffaloes maintained under rural conditions. POF sizes were measured ultrasonographically and grouped in to small preovulatory follicle (SPF), medium preovulatory follicle (MPF) and large preovulatory follicle (LPF). Serum progesterone concentration at the time of AI and pregnancy status was negatively correlated indicating that when progesterone level declined to < 0.3 ng/ml (basal level) at the time of AI, the chances of the animal becoming pregnant was increased. The size of the POF was positively correlated to the size of the CL on day 10 in pregnant buffaloes. The overall POF diameter at the time of estrum was 12.31 ± 0.29 mm (Range 9 to 16 mm) in Graded Murrah buffaloes and 50 % of the buffaloes had POF size > 12 - $\le$14 mm. They conceived only if the POF diameter was more than 9 mm at the time of AI however there was no significant correlation between the POF size at the time of AI and conception. Thus, it was concluded that physiological maturity rather than the diameter of the follicle influenced the fertility in Graded Murrah buffaloes under field conditions.

2 tables, 29 ref

026476   KUMAR A, KAMBOJ M L, CHANDRA S, BHARTI P (ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal-132 001, Email: subhashchandra20july@gmail.com) : Effect of modified housing system on physiological parameters of Murrah buffaloes during autumn and winter season. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(6), 829-33.

The aim of this study was to assess the effect of modified housing system on physiological parameters like rectal temperature, skin temperature, plasma cortisol level, respiration rate and pulse rate (counts/min) of Murrah buffaloes during autumn and winter seasons. A total of 14 lactating Murrah buffaloes were randomly selected and divided into two groups, on the basis of age, body weight (BW) and parity (P). T₁ =First group (n=7; BW=544.86 kg; P=2.14) of buffaloes was housed under existing loose housing system and T₂ =Second group (n=7; BW=547.71 kg; P=2.28) of buffaloes was housed under modified shed. In the present study, in autumn and winter season the mean rectal temperature were (T₁ =101.56 ± 0.06 vs. T₂ =100.94 ± 0.12 ºF and T₁ =100.71 ± 0.10 vs. T₂ =100.22 ± 0.08 ºF), skin temperature were (T₁ =95.19 ± 0.61 vs. T₂ =93.01 ± 0.57 ºF and T₁ =90.27 ± 0.23 vs. T₂ =89.06 ± 0.27 ºF) and plasma cortisol level (T₁ =4.04 ± 0.23 vs. T₂ =3.31 ± 0.21 and T₁ =3.19 ± 0.12 vs. T₂ =2.70 ± 0.14 ng/ml) respectively. These parameters were significantly (P < 0.05) lower in buffaloes housed under T₂ as compared to T₁ in autumn season, respiration rate (T₁ =37.39 ± 1.02 vs. T₂ =30.99 ± 1.21 and T₁ =26.56 ± 0.84 vs. T₂ =23.81 ± 0.66 counts/min.) was significantly lower in autumn (P < 0.01) and winter season (P < 0.0) and pulse rate (T₁ =60.91 ± 1.17 vs. T₂ =52.52 ± 1.44 and T₁ =55.01 ± 0.52 vs. T₂ =51.27 ± 0.53 counts/min) was significantly (P < 0.01) lower in buffaloes housed under T₂ as compared to T₁ in both seasons. The Murrah buffaloes housed under modified shed were improved physiological reactions during the autumn and winter seasons.

5 illus, 17 ref

026475   AL-SAGAN A A, ABUDABOS A M (Animal Production Dep, King Saud Univ, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Email: alabudabos@gmail.com) : Effect of eubiotic administration to broiler's feed on intestinal morphology and microbiology under Clostridium perfringens challenge. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(6), 824-8.

This study was conducted to assess the effect of prebiotics (Technos), probiotics (GalliPro) and their combination on broilers intestinal histomorphology and bacterial cell counts. 240, one day old chicks were randomly assigned into 6 treatments with eight replicates. Chicks of treatment 1 (control group) were fed unsupplemented diet. The chicks of treatment 2 were fed the control starter and finisher diets and were subjected to Clostridium perfringens infection. The chicks of treatments 3 and 4 were treated as those of treatment 2, but supplemented with antibiotic and probiotics, respectively. Chicks of treatment 5 were treated as those of treatment 2 and given a prebiotic (TechnoMos). Chicks of treatment 6 were treated as those of treatment 2, but given a probiotic (GalliPro) along with prebiotic (TechnoMos). The results showed that the birds that were infected by Clostridium perfringens and were given antibiotic, probiotic, prebiotic or symbiotic had no lesions or hemorrhages. It can, therefore, be concluded that these supplements were helpful in reversing the negative effects of the bacterial challenge. Gram negative Bacilli were found to be the same among all groups (P > 0.05), which is an indication that the antibiotic, probiotic, prebiotic or symbiotic tested in this trial had no influence on Gram negative bacteria. The positive modulation in intestinal morphology and microbiology as observed in this study supported the concept that gut condition and function can be improved by dietary supplementation other than AGPs.

5 tables, 26 ref

026474   LI M, WANG L (Animal Genetics Dep, Nanjing Agricultural Univ, Nanjing- 210 095, China, Email: 1055905815@qq.com) : Some novel rules of the biological heterozygous effects. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(6), 811-5.

The pure of an individual is relative to the hybrid. No two identical organisms are found on the earth at the level of nucleotide sequence. After two parents mating, the variations of their offspring will occur in the nucleotide sequence compared to their parents, which are called biological heterozygous effect. However, the molecular bases for this phenomenon remain elusive. In our view, biological heterozygous effects at least follow the below rules: Firstly, the contribution of the outcome of traits passed from parents to offspring is not equal. Secondly, progeny variation across the heterozygous individuals is lineage-specific dependent and some difference is found among the individuals within a family. Thirdly, biological variation is absolute, random, non-directional, and is fixed and forms a new species while other variation is getting into the blind branch of the species under some circumstances. In summary, Heterozygous effect is the key reason for the formation of biodiversity on the earth.

36 ref

026473   AMARESWARI P, PRAKASH M G, EKAMBARAM B, MAHENDAR M, KRISHNA C H (Sri P.V. Narasimha Rao Telangana Veterinary Univ for Veterinary, Hyderabad - 500 030, Email: amarvety@yahoo.com) : Molecular genetic studies on Nellore and Deccani sheep using microsatellite markers. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(6), 805-10.

The study was undertaken to understand the genetic architecture of Deccani and Nellore sheep breeds and to assess the genetic distance between the breeds. Allele diversity, genetic variability and population structure in the two breeds were estimated using 30 microsatellite markers. A total of 100 sheep, 50 each from Deccani and Nellore breeds were genotyped. The total number of alleles observed was 254 and 260 in Deccani and Nellore, respectively. The mean expected heterozygosity among the breeds ranged from 0.79 (Deccani) to 0.80 (Nellore) whereas the mean observed heterozygosity levels ranged from 0.77 in Deccani to 0.78 in Nellore sheep. The overall mean inbreeding coefficient was 0.029 in Deccani and 0.031 in Nellore sheep and of the 30 loci studied, 14 loci in Deccani and 16 loci in Nellore sheep showed negative inbreeding coefficient indicating the presence of outbreeding. However, eight loci (BM1314, BM6506, BM8125, ILSTS28, MAF70, MCM140, OarCB226 and OarFCB128) showed positive, mild to moderate inbreeding ranging from 0.007 to 0.25 in Deccani and 0.066 to 0.37 in Nellore sheep studied. The F_IS values ranged from -0.372 to 0.74, F_ST values ranged from 0.001 to 0.172 and F_IT values ranged from -0.370 to 0.728 between the Deccani and Nellore sheep breeds studied. The PIC values ranged from 0.498 to 0.886 with a mean of 0.773 in Deccani and from 0.574 to 0.894 with a mean of 0.777 in Nellore breed. The information generated from the present study will be valuable for setting conservation priority of these two breeds.

1 illus, 3 tables, 27 ref

026472   DASH S K, GUPTA A K, MANOJ M, KUMAR V, SHIVHRE P R, VALSALAN J (Animal Genetics and Breeding Dep, GADVASU, Ludhiana, Punjab, Email: shaktikant07@gmail.com) : Analysis of lifetime performance in Karan Fries cattle. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(5), 761-7.

Present investigation includes the study of the effect of genetic and non-genetic factors and estimation of genetic parameters with respect to lifetime production and reproduction traits of Karan Fries cattle. Data consisted of a total of 5878 lactation records on 1988 cows over a period of 32 years (1981 to 2012), maintained at ICAR-NDRI, Karnal. Overall least-squares means for LT2 (kg), LT3 (kg), LT4 (kg), LT5 (kg), ALTMY (kg), PL (days), HL (days), MY/PL (kg/day), MY/HL (kg/day), BE (%), LTDPR were found to be 7907.57 ± 121.21, 12714.68 ± 226.90, 17720.46 ± 338.52, 22282.97 ± 529.00, 15946.45 ± 256.85, 1510.36 ± 21.46, 2571.25 ± 27.31, 9.87 ± 0.11, 5.70 ± 0.07, 89.30 ± 0.84, 0.37 ± 1.22, respectively. Both production and fertility lifetime traits were significantly affected by different factors viz. season of birth, period of birth, genetic group and normal lactations completed. LSANOVA heritability estimates of LT2, LT3, LT4, ALTMY, MY/PL, MY/HL, BE, LTDPR, PL and HL were 0.29 ± 0.09, 0.30 ± 0.12, 0.29 ± 0.17, 0.17 ± 0.08, 0.21 ± 0.08, 0.27 ± 0.09, 0.20 ± 0.08, 0.09 ± 0.10, 0.10 ± 0.08 and 0.03 ± 0.06, respectively. Heritability estimates indicated that lifetime fertility traits were less affected by additive gene action. Genetic correlation estimates indicated unfavourable positive correlation between lifetime fertility and production traits.

4 tables, 15 ref

026471   MANIMARAN K, SINGH V P (Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences Univ, Chennai - 600 051, Email: maranvet@yahoo.com) : Rapid detection of infection due to Mycoplasma mycoides subsp. capri in experimental goats by PCR by assay. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(5), 758-60.

Mycoplasma causes a number of important disease viz., CBPP, CCPP, CRD, Arthritis, Contagious agalactiae and Mastitis in livestock and poultry. The conventional method of isolation and identification of the causative agents of these diseases are generally employed in conjunction with the serology which have the limitation of cross reactivity with other mycoplasma and poor growth of the organisms. To overcome these problems, the PCR assay which is rapid, sensitive and specific was used in the present study to detect the mycoplasma infection due to M. mycoides subsp.capri directly from the tissue materials viz., lungs, lymphnodes, spleen and liver from the experimentally infected goats. All the tissue materials were subjected to PCR assay with cluster specific primers (MC 323 and MC 358), which yielded approximately 1.5 kbp long product. Further,. It was characterized by using mycoides group specific primers (MM 450 and MM 451) and Mycoplasma capri specific primers (P 4 and P 6) which gave an amplicons of 574 bp and 195 bp products, respectively. The findings indicate that the PCR assay is very simple and useful method for detecting the mycoplasma infection directly from the tissue materials in a very short span.

3 illus, 13 ref

026470   ISIK N, EKICI O D, SEVINC F (Parasitology Dep, Selcuk Univ, Turkey, Email: nerminisik@selcuk.edu.tr) : The endemic status of Anaplasma marginale in cattle, in Turkey. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(5), 750-3.

This study was designed to determine the prevalence and endemic status of Anaplasma marginale in cattle in the province of Konya. A total of 700 cattle were randomly selected, categorized in different age groups (i.e. 0–6, 7–12, 13–24, 25–36 and >36 months) and examined in Kadinhani, Cumra and Beysehir provinces and in Konya city center. The presence of A. marginale was diagnosed by microscopic examination of blood smears and competitive ELISA (cELISA). Parasites were observed in 11.29 % of blood smears, and 31.86 % of animals were positive for antibodies against A. marginale. The rates of seropositivity in successively older age groups were 19.1, 24.39, 33.14, 44.21 and 37.36 % respectively. The endemic status of the disease was determined by calculating the inoculation rate (h) of cattle in each age group. The h value was detected to be lower than 0.005 and the endemic status of A. marginale was found to be unstable. If the cattle in Konya province were vaccinated when they are 9 to 12 months of age, they could be protected during the seasons when the disease is prevalent.

1 table, 28 ref

026469   NASEER O, KHAN J A, KHAN M S, OMER M O, NASEER J, SOHAIL M L, SALEEM M U, AHMAD W, AHMAD A S (Clinical Medicine and Surgery Dep, The Islamia Univ of Bahawalpur, Pakistan, Email: dromersheikh@gmail.com) : Effect of dietary aflatoxins (AFB1) on hematological and biochemical indices of male buffaloes. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(5), 718-23.

The objective of the study was to determine the effect of dietary aflatoxin B1 (AFB₁) in growing male buffaloes in terms of feed intake, hematological and serum biochemical parameters. Thirty six bovine growing male buffaloes between 6 months to 12 months of age were divided into four groups to receive diet having no AFB₁, 0.6 mg/kg, 0.8 mg/kg and 1.0 mg/kg AFB₁ of feed per animal per day for 28 days. The results indicate that the average daily feed intake of AFB₁ -treated growing male buffaloes significantly declined (P < 0.05) compared with the control. Serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and creatinine were significantly increased (P < 0.05) in response to AFB₁^. However change in blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels was non-significant values of all hematological parameters decreased significantly (P < 0.05) in1.0 mg/kg AFB₁ group as compared to other groups after day 14 onward.

7 tables, 32 ref

026468   HUANG S, YANG H, REHMAN M U, TONG Z (Henan Agricultural Univ, Zhengzhou-450 002, China, Email: 258032310@qq.com) : Acute heat stress in broiler chickens and its impact on serum biochemical and electrolyte parameters. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(5), 683-6.

Biochemical and electrolyte parameters play an assistant role for the faster and realistic evaluation of multiple organ dysfunction. The present study was designed to investigate the changes in serum biochemical and electrolyte parameters of Arbor Acres (AA) broiler chickens during acute heat stress. AA broiler chickens (N=120) were randomly allocated to four groups: control group at 22 ± 1 °C and heat stress group at 2 h, 5 h and 10 h, respectively (HS2, HS5, and HS10) at 38 ± 1 °C. All groups of serum electrolyte and biochemical parameters, including serum concentrations of sodium, potassium, chloride, calcium, total protein, albumin, total bilirubin (TBIL), direct bilirubin (DBIL), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, amylase, cholesterol, alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), creatine kinase (CK), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were measured. These results indicated that heat stress have significant (p < 0.05) effect on serum biochemical and electrolyte parameters of broiler chickens, which assist preliminary evaluation of the damage degree of corresponding organs.

1 table, 23 ref

026467   HAMAD B, AGGAD H, HADEF L, ADAIKA A (Tiaret of Univ, 14000 Tiaret, Algeria, Email: h_aggad@yahoo.com) : Effect of seasons on blood biochemical parameters in male dromedary camels in Algeria. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(5), 678-82.

The present study aimed to investigate the effect of different seasons on blood biochemical parameters of male dromedary camels in Algeria. A total number of 30 clinically healthy camels from five to seven years old were sampled in this study and biochemical analysis were performed using an automatic analyzer. The obtained results showed that the urea, creatine kinase and alanine amino transferase concentrations increased significantly during summer compared to other seasons. However, lactate dehydrogenase concentration increased significantly during winter versus other seasons. On the other hand, no significant effect of season was found on glucose, triglyceride, cholesterol, creatinine, aspartate amino transferase and alkaline phosphatase concentrations.

1 table, 29 ref

026466   ABBAS S, IQBAL R, BUTT M Z, NIAZ S, HALEEM S, ULLAH S, UMER M, IRFAN A, ALSAID M S, ULLAH R (Pharmacgnosy Dep, King Saud Univ, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Email: afridiriaz@yahoo.com) : Teratogenic effects of chlorantraniliprole on chick embryos (Gallus gallus domesticus). Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(5), 669-73.

The present study was designed to assess the teratogenic effects of Chlorantraniliprole on chick embryos (Gallus gallus domesticus). Different doses of commercial Chlorantraniliprole (0.1, 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5µl/1000µl/egg, in four experimental groups B, C, D, and E respectively) were injected into the yolk sac of eggs before incubation. Embryos were recovered at day 12 of incubation. The mortality rate gradually increased from lower to higher doses. A total of twelve morphometric parameters viz., wet body weight, crown rump length, anterior posterior head diameter, eye diameter, beak length, neck length, humor length, radius and ulna length, metacarpus length, femur length, fibula length and metatarsus length were recorded and compared with control group. These quantitative parameters indicated significant (p < 0.05) decreases in all treated groups compared to control group. While the qualitative anomalies such as microcephaly, hydrocephaly, edematous swelling, hematoma formation, abnormal body coloration, microphthalmia, deformed beak, agnathia, micromelia, amelia, omphalocele and ectopia cardis were also observed in treated groups as compared to untreated groups. Therefore it is concluded that Chlorantraniliprole has potentially harmful effects on the development of avian embryos even at very low dose concentration. Hence, due to toxicity of this pesticide it can be used with utmost caution.

3 tables, 34 ref

026465   SONI R K, GUPTA P S P, NANDI S, MONDAL S, IPPALA J R, MOR A, MISHRA A, TRIPATHI S K (ICAR- National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Bengaluru - 560 030, Email: soniravi2802@gmail.com) : Effect of in vitro copper supplementation on granulosa cell estradiol synthesis and associated genes. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(5), 652-7.

The study was conducted by supplementing cupric chloride dihydrate to modulate the estradiol synthesis in granulosa cells with a hypothesis of possible use of copper to potentiate or partially replace the hormones for estrus induction / estrus synchronization in future studies. In present study copper at three doses (0.1, 0.5 and 1 mM level in culture medium) were tested to deserve see their effects on in vitro granulosa cell survival, estradiol synthesis and their associated genes of ovarian granulosa cells of goat.There was no effect of copper on the ovarian granulosa cell survival rate. There was a considerable increase in the estradiol level per ml culture medium basis by 6th day of in vitro culture with the second dose of copper i.e. 0.5 mM, but the increase was non-significant (P > 0.05). There was no significant effect of copper on estradiol synthesis when expressed on per 30000 cell basis. Effect of copper (0.1 mM and 0.5 mM) on the mRNA expression of genes of aromatase (CYP19A1) and cyclin D2 (CCND2) was estimated. Copper had significantly (P < 0.05) increased the mRNA expression of CCND2 and CYP19A1 in ovarian granulosa cells with only one of the two doses tested i.e. 0.5 mM. Hence, copper can be considered as a potential mineral to supplement along with hormones in estrus induction or estrus synchronization protocols to minimize the use of hormones.

6 illus, 3 tables, 23 ref

026459   UMUT FAHRIOGLU U, ERGOREN M C (Medical Biology Dep, Near East Univ, Nicosia, Cyprus, Email: umutfahrioglu@gmail.com) : The association between APOA5 gene polymorphisms and plasma lipids in the Turkish Cypriot population: A possible biomarker for preventing cardiovascular diseases. Biochem Genet 2018, 56(3), 176–87.

Apolipoprotein A5 (APOA5 or APO A-V) polymorphisms have long been reported to be associated with cardiovascular disease and plasma lipid levels. The present study was undertaken to investigate the relationship between the rs662799, rs3135507, and rs2075291 with biochemical parameters in the Turkish Cypriot population. A total of 100 Turkish Cypriot volunteer subjects (53 female and 47 male), with a mean age of 40.8, participated in the study. A basic biochemical analysis, including serum glucose, total serum cholesterol, HDL-C, LDLC, and triglycerides, was performed for each participant. Genotyping for the APOA5 three polymorphisms was performed by polymerase chain reaction followed by restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis. Biochemical parameters except the low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) were all within the normal limits. LDL-C was found to be slightly elevated in participants according to WHO guidelines. With respect to the genotype and allele distributions of APOA5 rs662799 T[C polymorphism, TT genotypes are more frequent (62 %) in the population and the frequency of T allele is 0.78. The TT genotype for APOA5 rs2075291 G\T was not observed in the study population. Ancestral GG is the only genotype present in the study population. Minor Allele Frequency of APOA5 rs3135507 G[A variant is 0.12 for the A allele. No association between the two studied APOA5 polymorphisms (rs662799 and rs3135507) and the biochemical components of glucose, total cholesterol, and triglyceride were observed. On the other hand, a strong statistical association between the high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) clinical parameters and APOA5 rs662799 CC and rs3135507 AA genotypes was found (p = 0.014 and p = 0.017, respectively). APOA5 polymorphisms rs662799 and rs3135507, with the CC and the AA genotypes, respectively, are associated with increased levels of both high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and lowdensity lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in the Turkish Cypriot population.

4 tables, 20 ref

026421   MOSHFEGH A, SETORKI M, BAHRPEYMA V, TEHRANIFARD A, RAHIMIBASHAR M (Biology Dep, Islamic Azad Univ, Lahijan, Iran, Email: doctor.setorgi@gmail.com) : Hematology and plasma chemistry reference intervals for wild population of Alburnus chalcoides (Guldenstadt, 1772): Influence of sex, habitat and seasonal variation. Int J Aquat Biol 2018, 6(3), 162-9.

The study was aimed to establish reference interval for some blood biochemical(sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium) and hematological (total count of white blood cells, neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, and eosinophils) indices in both sexes of Alburnus chalcoides in response to its habitats with different physiochemical conditions and to seasonal variation. Fish samples were collected from its seasonal habitats, including river, estuary, and Caspian Sea. The mean concentration of sodium, potassium, calcium,and magnesium in plasma of fish were 134.69 ± 13.61 (mmol/l), 3.26 ± 0.83 (mmol/l),11.65 ± 1.82 (mg/dl) and 2.13 ± 1.12 (mmol/l), respectively. These electrolytes demonstrated significant differences between the male and female as well as between the fish collected from different habitats. Total WBCs count was 6045.35 ± 960.25 (per mm³) and the mean percentage of neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes and eosinophils were 26.55 ± 3.37 %, 67.74 ± 3.72 %, 3.04 ± 0.70 % and 0.98 ± 0.04 %, respectively. WBCs generally showed considerable differences between male and female. Furthermore, a higher percentage of monocytes, neutrophils and eosinophils were observed in the fish collected from river and estuary during spring and summer. The study demonstrated that differences in sex, habitat and seasonal variation cause variation in hematology and plasma chemistry reference intervals for wild population of A. chalcoides when migrating between its natural habitats.

4 illus, 2 tables, 26 ref

026420   RAHMAN M R, SHANTA S M, AZAD M A K, HOSSAIN M K, MOSTARY S, ALI A, SIDDIKY M M, HAQUE M A (Fisheries Biology and Genetics Dep, Bangladesh Agricultural Univ, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, Email: mrafiqurrahamn@yahoo.com) : Effects of stocking density on the growth, survival and production of endangered bata, Labeo bata (Hamilton, 1822) in primary nursing. Int J Aquat Biol 2018, 6(3), 147-56.

Effect of stocking densities on the growth, survival and production of bata, Labeo bata fry and fingerlings were tested in a primary nursery rearing system. The experiment was conducted for a period of 4 weeks in six earthen nursery ponds having an area of 0.032 ha each. Four-day-old fry stocked at 1.0 million/ha was designated as treatment-1 (T1), 1.5 million/ha as treatment-2 (T2) and 2.0 million/ ha as treatment-3 (T3). At stocking, all fry were of same age with a mean length and weight of 1.03 ± 0.03 cm and 0.12 ± 0.01 g, respectively. Fry in all the treatments were fed with Mega commercial fish feed. Physico-chemical parameters such as water temperature, transparency, dissolve oxygen, pH and total alkalinity in all the treatments were suitable ranges for fry and fingerling rearing. Plankton population (both phytoplankton and zooplankton) were found to be at optimum level for fish culture. Highest weight gain was observed in T1 (3.46 ± 0.08) and lowest in T3 (1.98 ± 0.03). Final length, final weight and survival of fingerlings also followed the same trends as weight gain. Fingerlings in T1 produced significantly higher specific growth rate (12.15 ± 0.08) than T2 (11.31 ± 0.03) and T2 (10.22 ± 0.05). Feed conversion ratio was significantly lower in T1 (0.26 ± 0.01) than T2 (0.42 ± 0.02) and T3 (0.65 ± 0.01). Significantly higher number of fingerlings was produced in T3 (1177700 ± 4700) than T2 (963300 ± 9900) and T1 (717850 ± 7350), respectively. Despite of this, consistently higher net benefits were found from T1 than T2 and T3. Overall, highest growth (3.60 ± 0.16 g), survival (71.79 ± 1.04 %) and net benefits (TK. 127,087.00) of fingerlings were obtained at a density of 1.0 million hatchlings/ha. Therefore, out of three stocking densities, 1.0 million fry/ha appears to be most suitable stocking density for nursing and rearing of L. bata fry and fingerlings in primary nursing

2 illus, 5 tables, 49 ref