044879   LITTLE C M, CHAPMAN T W, HILLIER N K (Biology Dep, Acadia Univ, NS- B4P2R6, Canada, Email: clittle@mun.ca) : Plasticity is key to success of Drosophila suzukii (Diptera: Drosophilidae) invasion. J Insect Sci 2020, 20(3), 10.1093/jisesa/ieaa034.

After its initial discovery in California in 2008, Drosophila suzukii Matsumura has become one of the most important invasive agricultural pest insects across climate zones in much of Asia, Europe, North America, and South America. Populations of D. suzukii have demonstrated notable behavioral and physiological plasticity, adapting to diverse environmental and climatic conditions, interspecific competition, novel food sources, and potential predators. This adaptability and plasticity have enabled rapid range expansion and diversified niche use by D. suzukii, making it a species particularly suited to changing habitats and conditions. This article reviews factors and evidence that influence plasticity in D. suzukii and promotes this species’ invasiveness.

127 ref

041118   NAGPAL A, VERMA S, SHAH R, BHAT G R, BHAT A, BAKSHI D, SHARMA B, KAUL S, KUMAR R (Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Univ, Jammu and Kashmir, Email: kumar.rakesh@smvdu.ac.in) : Genetic polymorphism of hOGG1 ser326cys and its association with breast cancer in Jammu and Kashmir. Indian J Cancer 2020, 57(2), 187-9.

8‑Oxo‑7, 8‑dihydro‑2’‑deoxyguanosine (8‑oxodG) is a potent DNA damage marker that leads to cellular oxidative stress. It is a DNA‑repair enzyme that participates in “8‑oxodG” DNA adducts removal. Previous studies show weak associations of rs1052133 (hOGG1) in breast cancer patients of Northern India. We performed this study to explore the variant rs1052133 (hOGG1) with breast in the population of Jammu and Kashmir (J and K). A polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism ‑based single‑nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotypic study was carried out in peripheral blood samples of 165 breast cancer patients and 200 healthy controls, using specific primers. Sanger sequencing verified the results. hOGG1‑Ser326Cys polymorphism occurred frequently in cases as compared with controls. Data were evaluated by SPSS V.13 software, following Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium (P = 0.002 at OR 2.57; 95% CI[1.68–3.93]), which showed that the SNP rs1052133 had a significant association with increased risk of breast cancer. Overall, the results of this analysis show that the hOGG1‑Ser326Cys polymorphism may be associated with an increased risk for breast cancer in the J and K population.

1 illus, 1 table, 14 ref

044874   WASSMER T (Biology Dep, Siena Heights Univ, MI- 49221, Email: tom@wassmer.org) : Attractiveness of cattle dung to Coprophilous beetles (Coleoptera: Scarabaeoidea and sphaeridiinae) and their segregation during the initial stages of the heterotrophic succession on a pasture in southeast Michigan. J Insect Sci 2020, 20(3), 10.1093/jisesa/ieaa040.

Only a few mostly older studies analyzed the heterotrophic succession of dung beetles in the Midwestern United States. Such studies are needed to track the impacts of the climate crisis on heterotrophic succession and the associated decomposition processes that are central to soil fertility and carbon sequestration. The current study closes this knowledge gap and provides an easy and efficient method to estimate the relative attractiveness of individual dung pads during heterotrophic succession. The dung beetle community of Carpenter Farm in Adrian, Southeast Michigan was sampled for an entire year, including the winter months, using 15 pitfall traps baited with fresh cow manure. Samples were collected after 48 h and again after 72 h exposure time from the bucket content while leaving the bait unhampered. Eighty-four percent of all beetles were caught in the early sample, but only 6 species were missing in the later sample. A cluster analysis based on Pianka’s niche overlap identified a statistically higher mean overlap than expected by chance in a null model (model RA3) and divided the species community clearly into three clusters separating most relocators from most dwellers. Despite using a different method, my results confirmed the successional position of most previously described species and added data for several species with poor or unknown successional state. The successional segregation between dwellers and relocators discovered by the cluster analysis was paralleled by a significantly larger body size of relocators across taxonomic groups as compared to dwellers.

6 illus, 4 tables, 113 ref

044863   SURAPORN S, TERENIUS O (Biology Dep, Mahasarakham Univ, Thailand, Email: siripuk_s@yahoo.com) : Sensitivity of polyvoltine thai strains of Bombyx mori to a bmnpv isolate from mahasarakham. J Insect Sci 2020, 20(2), 10.1093/jisesa/ieaa023.

Virus infection by the Bombyx mori nucleopolyhedrovirus (BmNPV) is the most severe disease in Thai sericultural practice of polyvoltine silkworms. Here, we characterized a newly isolated BmNPV isolated from the Mahasarakham province in Thailand (BmNPV-MSU). The purity and morphology of BmNPV-MSU were examined using light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The polyhedral inclusion bodies (PIBs) of BmNPV-MSU appeared in tetragonal, hexagonal, octagonal, and globular forms. The virions were both single and multiple embedded as observed by transmission electron microscopy. We also determined the virulence of BmNPV-MSU for six different Thai polyvoltine strains by LC50 and time to death after infection. The LC50 values of Nang Lai, NK04, and Sam Rong strains were 5.05–1.52 × 107 PIBs per ml and mortality peaked 7- to 8-d after inoculation. For Nang Noi, SP2, and RE05 strains the LC50 values were 7.91–1.82 × 106 PIBs/ml and mortality peaked 4–5 d after inoculation, thus having lower chance of survival to infection by BmNPV-MSU.

4 illus, 3 tables, 11 ref

041088   UPADHYAY G (Vasant Kanya Mahavidyalaya, Kamachcha, Varanasi - 221 010, Email: sharma.garima2008@gmail.com) : Nutrition therapy in diabetes mellitus: A Retrospective Study. Indian J Applied & Pure Bio 2020, 35(2), 211-20.

Diabetes is one of the biggest global public health problems with the estimated prevalence to increase from 425 million people in 2017 to 629 million by 2045, with linked health, social and economic costs. Type 2 diabetes is the fourth or fifth leading cause of death in most developed countries and there is growing evidence that it has reached epidemic proportions in many developing and newly industrialized countries. Since diet, physical activity and weight are modifiable factors and are also critical for slowing, or even reversing, this trend. Awareness about diabetes complications and consequent improvement in dietary knowledge, attitude and practices lead to better control of the disease. In order to improve the overall metabolism beyond calorie restriction and weight loss, it is crucial to integrate medical nutrition therapy into primary care of type 2 diabetes mellitus. This paper gives insight into need and different approaches of medical nutrition therapy (MNT) in type 2 diabetes. It outlines various approaches used till present based on studies and recommendations given. It is concluded that collaborative efforts from diabetologists, endocrinologists, and registered dieticians are required, since single approach to diabetes MNT does not exist. The diabetic diet must be nutritionally adequate for the patients’ requirement and it should be tailor made for each individual patient based on age, sex, body weight and physical activity and taking into consideration, their lifestyle, socioeconomic factors, cultural background, and motivation too. Various studies concluded that evidence exists demonstrating that MNT can improve clinical outcomes while possibly decreasing the cost of managing diabetes.

2 tables, 28 ref

041083   RAI A, SINGH S K (Meerut Institute of Engineering and Technology, Meerut - 250 005, Email: singh.sujeet121@gmail.com) : Probiotication of vegetable juice by Lactobacillus acidophilus. Indian J Applied & Pure Bio 2020, 35(2), 159-69.

The benefits of consuming food with added live microbes (probiotics) on human health are being increasingly promoted by the health professionals. The term Probiotic was technically defined as ‘‘live microorganisms which upon ingestion in certain numbers exert health benefits beyond inherent general nutrition’. In the present study vegetable fruit juice (beet root and bottle guard) are used for the probiotication by Lactobacillus acidophilus. The bacteria was isolated from curd sample and characterized on morphological and biochemical basis. The vegeatble juices were probioticated with the isolated bacteria and further analysis of the probioticated juice was done. Increase in percentage acidity and decrease in pH was observed and the nutritonal analysis revealed the presence of vitamins and organic acids. The probioticated juice samples also showed good antagonistic acitivity against the pathogenic bacteria species. The characters of the probioticated substrates were studied and were tested for shelf life. It was evidently proved that immobilized cultures remained viable over a long period of time and the probiotically fermented drinks were potentially inhibiting the pathogenic growth. Prospective studies on mechanisms of the probiotic activities may enable their new medical applications for lactose intolerant and diabetic patients.

1 illus, 4 tables, 18 ref

041076   ASHISH, KUMAR M (Botany Dep, Baba Mastnath Univ, Rohtak - 124 021 (Haryana), Email: manojvermamdu@gmail.com) : Effect of plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) application on soil fertility, productivity and nutritional status of Rice (Oryza sativa). Indian J Applied & Pure Bio 2020, 35(2), 103-14.

Field experiments were carried out on rice crop at Rohtak 124001, India and evaluated the effect of plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (Azotobacter sp., Bacillus sp. and Pseudomonas sp.) with 75 % nitrogen (N) and recommended dose of phosphorus (P) and potassium (K). The results showed that maximum plant height and number of tillers were recorded by application of treatment (75 % N + Full P, K + Azotobacter sp. + Bacillus sp. + Pseudomonas sp.). The combined application of 75 % N with either two or three species of PGPR, viz. (75 % N + Full P, K + Azotobacter sp. + Bacillus sp., 75 % N + Full P, K + Bacillus sp. + Pseudomonas sp., 75% N + Full P, K + Azotobacter sp. + Pseudomonas sp. and 75 % N + Full P, K + Azotobacter sp. + Bacillus sp. + Pseudomonas sp.) treatments had significantly increased growth attributes over treatment (75 % N + Full P, K). The highest grain yield in rice crop was recorded by the application of (75 % N + Full P, K + Azotobacter sp. + Bacillus sp. + Pseudomonas sp.) treatment.

7 tables, 17 ref

041071   GANGULY S (Physiology Dep, Vidyasagar Coll, Kolkata - 700 006, Email: res_biol@rediffmail.com) : Evidence for auxotrophic nature of Corynebacterium glutamicum X680. Indian J Applied & Pure Bio 2020, 35(1), 63-9.

The present investigation was undertaken to determine the specific nutritional deficiency of the newly developed mutant Corynebacterium glutamicum X680 maintenance of its L-glutamic acid over production. In this connection, I added cyanocobalamin, folic acid, thiamine-HCl, riboflavin, nicotinic acid, pyridoxine-HCl, inositol, calcium pantothanate, paraamino benzoic acid (PABA) and biotin one by one in the minimal salt medium (2µg/ml each) to evaluate their specific requirement for this mutant. The mutant showed nutritional requirement for biotin only.Various concentrations of biotin were tested. The mutant required biotin auxotroph with 3 µg/ml. Different kinetic parameters like rate of product yield (qp), specific product yield (Yp/x) and rate of glucose consumption (Yp/s) were studied. Production of L-glutamic acid decreased significantly (p<0.01) above and below this concentration. The growth pattern and productivity varied with different concentrations of biotin. The mutant strain proved to be a biotin auxotroph.

3 illus, 32 ref

042874   KUMARI R, PRIYA (Botany Dep, B.R. Ambedkar Bihar Univ, Muzaffarpur, Bihar) : Optimization of concentrations of plant growth regulators for in vitro multiple shoot formation and efficient root induction in Phyla nodiflora L. (Lippia nodiflora L.) an important medicinal plant. Indian J Sci Res 2020, 10(2), 39-44.

In the present study nodal and shoot tip explants were cultured in MS medium supplemented with different concentrations of BAP and KN separately, which were fortified with three different concentrations of NAA. It was noted that when nodal explants was inoculated in MS+ 2.0 mg/l BAP and 1.5 mg/l NAA, the percentage of response for shoot bud induction was 88.84 and the number of shoots per explants in this medium was 9.64. These were the highest percentage of response and the number shoots in this medium. In the same culture condition the percentage response for shoot tip explants was 82.26, while the number of shoots buds per explants was 7.25, respectively. When nodal explants were inoculated in MS+ 2.0 mg/l KN + 1.5 mg/l NAA, the percentage response for shoot bud induction was 75.25 and umber of shoots per explants in this medium was 6.39, respectively. In the same medium, when the shoot tip explant was inoculated, the percentage of response for shoot bud initiation was 70.36 and number of shoots per explant was 4.75 respectively. It was further noted that although the above explants, also responded to other concentrations of BAP and KN, along with NAA in MS basal medium but there was discrepancy in both the percentage response as well as the number of shoot buds initiated per explants. Above in vitro raised and well grown plantlets were used for rooting. For this both ½ strength as well ¼ strength MS basal medium were supplemented with seven different concentrations of IAA and IBA separately. Shoots were excised and inoculated in the aforesaid rooting medium. Here again it was noted that the explants inoculated in ½ MS + 1.0 mg/l IBA revealed maximum percentage (73.54) after 36th days of inoculation. The number of roots per explants was 34. ½ MS + 1.0 mg/l IAA, induced roots and the percentage of response was 66.36, while the number of roots per explants was 2.6 only. It may be concluded that for shoot bud induction, nodal explant and MS + 2.0 mg/l BAP + 1.5 mg/l IBA was most promising culture condition. Similarly, for root induction ½ MS + 1.0 mg/l IBA was the best medium for Phyla nodiflora.

2 tables, 32 ref

041063   GANGULY S (Physiology Dep, Vidyasagar Coll, Kolkata - 700 006, Email: res_biol@rediffmail.com) : Roles of Penicillin G and surfactants on extracellular secretion of L-glutamic acid as a function of membrane permeability. Indian J Applied & Pure Bio 2020, 35(1), 1-6.

The present investigation was undertaken to examine the effect of penicillinG and surfactants on L-glutamic acid production by a biotin auxotroph Corynebacterium glutamicum X680. Addition of penicillin G, 6U/ml, 8h after incubation led to maximum extracellular secretion of Lglutamic acid. Among different fatty acid derivatives (surfactants) studied, Tween60 (polyoxyethylene sorbitan monostearate), 0.5mg/ml, appeared to be the most suitable fatty acid derivative in extracellular secretion of L-glutamic acid from the bacterial cells in presence of biotin when added to the medium after 6h of incubation. Surprisingly, the stimulatory effect was dependent on addition time which was also reflected in the bacterial growth curve of Corynebacterium glutamicum X680.

5 illus, 18 ref

042855   KHALATE S S , CHANDGUDE P M , KAMBALE M M , DHAWAN S S, MANE S G , MARATHE R J , DESHMUKH R B , PHATAKE Y B (Microbiology Dep, Commerce and Science Coll, Pune - 413 115, Maharashtra, Email: sdhawan616@gmail.com) : Biofilm inhibition of UTI pathogens using Terminalia arjuna and Ipomea carnea plant extract. Indian J Sci Technol 2020, 13(24), 2452–62.

To evaluate the antibiofilm potential of Terminalia arjuna and Ipomea carnea plant extract against potent biofilm forming UTI pathogens. In this study, previously isolated and characterized three UTI pathogens viz. Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus equorum were used to evaluate antibiofilm potential of selected plants. Soxhlet apparatus was used with a solvent methanol for the extraction process. For the evaluation of antibiofilm activity of different concentrations (2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 mg/ml) of plant extract in 3 % DMSO Crystal violet assay was used. The methanolic bark extract of T. arjuna showed maximum activity up to 89.84 % at 10mg/ml. against S. equorum while leaves extract of I. carnea gives maximum antibiofilm activity up to 67.53 % at 2mg/ml against E. coli. The result shows that the investigated plants might be helpful in the development of potent herbal drugs to treat UTI. 

11 illus, 2 tables, 32 ref

044822   ALI M, NISHAD U, YADAV V K (Gaya Prasad Institute of Human Excellence for Pharmacy, Malihabad, Uttar Pradesh) : Evaluation of phytochemical & antibacterial activity on some Indian medicinal plants (Kateli, Datura, Makoi). J Pharmacogn Phytochem 2020, 9(2), 51-60.

To prepare agar plates (cultures) of Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus (SA) and Gramnegative Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA), Klebsiella pneumonia (KP) and Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) individually. Collection of plant, Microbial strain and culture preparation, Preparation of antimicrobial extract by solvent extraction, antimicrobial analysis, determination of inhibitory concentration, phytochemical analysis, purification of secondary metabolism. Antibacterial screening of Solanum S, Solanum nigrum and Datura stramonium: Anti bio gram analysis of Acetone, 80 % Methanol, Chloroform and petroleum ether extracts of Solanum virginianum, Solanum nigrum and Datura stramonium extract against S. aureus (SA), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA), K. pneumoniae (KP) and Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB). Project was done in the end of May throughout this project, we come up to a point where we can state that Solanum nigrum (makoi) and Datura stramonium (Datura) plants are good source of antimicrobial compound and can give to be a good source of natural medicine. They activity of antimicrobial can be enhanced by using metal ions, tested in different temperature and pH and can be tested in various other solvent. It has demonstrated to be powerful against bacteria and used at raise temperatures. So, we can terminate that drugs made out of would not be based on what conditions that are stored, this gives an edge in hold the drugs build out of this fruit.

3 illus, 10 tables, 18 ref

044821   GONZÁLEZ-GUEVARA J C, REDONDO G L M, ZUÑIGA R V, SIBAJA S R (Costa Rica Univ, Costa Rica) : Comparison of the antifungal and antibacterial effect of the essential oil and ethanolic extract of the Zingiber officinale Rhizome (Ginger) cultivated in the San Carlos zone, Costa Rica in order to standardize a hydroponic medicinal cultivation of the same. J Pharmacogn Phytochem 2020, 9(2), 43-50.

Ginger is a medicinal plant native to India. Its potential use in cosmetics, medicines and natural products has been reported, however depending on the conditions of cultivation the medicinal components of the different parts of the plant not only changes in its concentration, but in its composition, this modifies its action medicinal. Objective: Characterize the chemical composition of the essential oil obtained from the rhizomes of Zingiber officinale cultivated in the San Carlos area, Costa Rica, and to compare its antifungal and antibacterial effect in order to standardize future crops of the plant. Hydroponic form and validate its pharmacological effect and, or Cosmetic a posteriori. The rhizomes of the plant were used, the active ingredients were extracted by ethanolic extraction with Soxhlet and steam distillation, the analysis was performed by a qualitative phytochemical profile for the ethanolic extract, and the composition of the essential oil was studied by means of Gas Chromatography coupled to a mass detector (GC-MS). In addition, microbiological tests were performed by plate diffusion for ethanolic extracts and essential oil with strains of bacteria and fungi common in cutaneous pathologies. By means of a scanning electron microscope. The presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, tannins and triterpenes in the ethanolic extract was qualitatively determined. In the characterization of the essential oil by GC-MS, geranial (27.42 %), neral (20.11 %), 1,8-cineol (13.35 %), camphene (4.65 %) and E-geraniol %). The composition obtained with the composition reported in the literature was compared, obtaining a clear difference with that reported in other studies, which allows to predict an antimicrobial behavior different from most of the traditional essential oils of this rhizome. It was determined that the essential oil inhibited the growth of Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Streptococcus pyogenes, Stahylococcus epidermidis, Candida albicans, Enteroccocus faecalis, but not against Pseudomonas aureginosa, the ethanolic extract showed no antifungal or antibacterial activity, in addition it was demonstrated that the oil Essential has a stronger anti-Candida Albicans effect than inhibition halo at the same concentration of essential oil and that its mechanism of action included destruction of the membrane by pore formation and an osmotic shock.

8 illus, 4 tables, 19 ref

044820   DAS M, SAHU D S, BANERJI A, NARASIMHAJI C V, HAZRA J (Central Ayurveda Research Institute for Drug Development, Kolkata, West Bengal) : Pharmacognostical evaluation and HPTLC fingerprinting profile of fresh and dried leaves of rabonlata (Mikania micrantha Kunth.). J Pharmacogn Phytochem 2020, 9(2), 37-42.

Recently, there has been a global surge of interest in herbal drugs, which have been in use for centuries in traditional Asian schools of medicine. Current research on plant-based drugs continue to provide new remedies to mankind. The weed Rabonlata (Mikania micrantha Kunth.) has medicinal properties and is widely used in ethnomedical practice in India and other south-east Asian countries. The present study reports comparative HPTLC finger-printing studies of the fresh and dried leaves of Rabonlata (Mikania micrantha Kunth.) and pharmacognostical studies.

6 illus, 3 tables, 14 ref

044817   TOKLO P M, YAYI-LADEKAN E, SAKIRIGUI A, ASSOGBA F M, ALOWANOU G G, AHOMADEGBE M A, HOUNZANGBÉ-ADOTÉ S, GBENOU J D (Abomey Calavi Univ, Bénin) : Phytochemistry and pharmacological review of Mitragyna inermis (Willd.) Kuntze (Rubiaceae). J Pharmacogn Phytochem 2020, 9(2), 22-30.

As part of the development of traditional medicine rich in Africa and particularly in Bénin, several studies have been conducted for years to evaluate the ethnopharmacological properties of medicinal plants. It is in this context that Mitragyna inermis is known for many of these properties mentioned in the traditional pharmacopoeia and whose biological analyses have confirmed some of them. The purpose of this work is to summarise previous work; biological as chemical on this plant. The extracts showed that it has antibacterial, antiviral, antiparasitic properties. The isolated compounds are certainly responsible for these known biological activities. The synergistic action of the compounds present in the extracts can justify also its use in the treatment of several pathologies. Finally, this review of literature carried out on this plant, is a contribution to the synthesis of the previous works carried out in order to deepen its valuation.

53 ref

044815   NAND K K, CHINCHANE V N, GOPAL G R, PURI S G (Vasantrao Naik Marathwada Krishi Vidyapeeth, Parbhani, Maharashtra) : Studies on combining ability for yield, yield contributing and fibre quality traits in desi cotton (Gossypium arboreum L.). J Pharmacogn Phytochem 2020, 9(2), 12-4.

Line x tester analysis was carried out involving 6 line and 4 testers for seed cotton yield and fibre quality traits. Significant difference among genotypes was observed for all traits under study meaning thereby considerable amount of genetic variability. The magnitude of GCA variances was higher than SCA variance suggesting per-ponderance of additive gene effects for almost all the traits. The genotypes PA 785, PA 774, JLA 794 and JLA 611 were found good general combiner for seed cotton yield and yield contributing characters. The cross combinations PA 785 x DAS 1201, PA 785 x JLA 794 had significant SCA effects for seed cotton yield. Therefore, the breeder should compromise at acceptable values of seed cotton yield and fiber quality parameters. It is advocated that the genotypes having such values for these traits could be used in further breeding programme.

4 tables, 8 ref

044814   CHINCHANE V N, BAIG K S, GOPAL G R (Vasantrao Naik Marathwada Krishi Vidyapeeth, Parbhani, Maharashtra) : Performance of Gossypium arboreum genotypes of different agro-climatic zones for yield and fibre quality parameters under rainfed condition. J Pharmacogn Phytochem 2020, 9(2), 10-11.

Cotton is an important agriculture commodity for export in the form of raw cotton, cotton yarn and other value added textile goods. The textile industry demands long staple cotton genotypes for better clothes. Therefore in the present investigation, Gossypium arboreum genotypes from different agro-climatic zones were evaluated to study their superiority for yield and quality parameters. The genotypes evaluated in the present study showed high yield potential on par with the zonal check AKA 7.These genotypes show wide range of variation for different yield and fibre quality characters. Among the twenty eight genotypes of G. arboreum cotton, the genotype PA 785 and CISA 6-2 were the best genotypes for seed cotton yield as well as fibre properties like fibre length, fibre strength, uniformity ratio and fibre fineness.

1 table, 10 ref

044813   GANGARADDI V, BRAHMAPRAKASH G P, KRISHNA NAIK L, MUDALAGIRIYAPPA (Agricultural Sciences Univ, Raichur, Karnataka) : Screening of the selected formulations of a microbial consortium for their effectiveness on the growth of finger millet (Eleusine coracana L. Gaertn.). J Pharmacogn Phytochem 2020, 9(2), 1-9.

A Greenhouse investigation was carried out to screen the effectiveness of selected four formulations (alginate based, fluid bed dryer based, lignite and liquid formulations) of Agriculturally Important Microorganisms (AIMs) viz., Azotobacter chroococcum., Bacillus megaterium and Pseudomonas fluorescens on growth parameters of finger millet (Eleusine coracana L. gaertn.). As a result, the plant growth parameters such as higher plant height (38.93 cm), maximum number of leaves (9.67), total chlorophyll content (2.54mg/g of leaf), total nitrogen uptake (103.56mg/ plant), total phosphorus uptake (63.11mg/plant) and total biomass content (12.87g/plant) were recorded in plants treated with triple inoculants in liquid formulation. The present study revealed that the triple inoculants in liquid formulation contributed more to the growth attributes and nutrient uptake compared to the other test formulations used in the present study.

2 illus, 9 tables, 35 ref

046338   PALLAVI M , KRISHNA K V R , REDDY P S, RATNAVATHI C V, SUJATHA P, SRIRAM A (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural Univ, Hyderabad - 500 030, Email: mpl24@rediffmail.com) : Heterosis for grain yield, rancidity and associated characters in Pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.). The J Res PJTSAU 2020, 48 (1&2), 28-38.

Heterosis for grain yield, rancidity and associated characters was studied in pearl millet in line × tester design. Thirty two crosses were generated using eight CMS lines and four testers and evaluated along with parental lines and two checks to estimate heterosis for ten characters in pearl millet. Non-additive gene action was predominant for all the characters under study except effective tillers per plant. None of the hybrids showed significant heterosis over the check 86 M 86 for grain yield, while hybrids 92777A × R22, 97111A × R39 and 04999A × 08222R showed significantly positive heterosis of 254.81, 230.28 and 214.98 respectively over the check HHB 67. The hybrids 03666A × 08222R, 05444A × 08222R and 98222A × 08222R exhibited significantly lower negative standard heterosis over the check 86 M 86 for alcoholic acididty at 5th day of storage indicating higher longevity in these lines.

3 tables, 19 ref

046335   VARALAKSHMI K, NEELIMA S (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, Agricultural Coll, Mahanandi - 518 502, Email: varalakshmikumba156@gmail.com) : Estimation of heterosis for seed yield and oil content in sunflower hybrids (Helianthus annuus L.). The J Res PJTSAU 2020, 48 (1&2), 1-11.

In India the first case of COVID-19 was detected on 30 January 2020. As of today the figures in India are confirmed cases 17,656, with 559 deaths so far, according to data published by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Monday. Of these 14,255 are active cases of COVID-19, 2,841 individuals have recovered and discharged from hospital, one person migrated to another country and 559 people succumbed to the disease. Since 31 December 2019 and as of 20 April 2020, 23,55,853 cases of COVID-19 (in accordance with the applied case definitions and testing strategies in the affected countries) have been reported, including 1,64,656 deaths. Citizens globally are impacted with diverse information on dos and don'ts during the Pandemic of CODIV-19 and were restricted to maintain a physical distancing, while under total LOCKDOWN condition and even at certain hotspots in curfew like environment. The key challenge was how to connect with the citizens and enable them to access credible information on the pandemic outbreak and how a healthy citizen can remain healthy during the most deadly attack ever happened in the world by an invisible enemy, Coronavirus-19. Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi, India decided to organize a series of seminar for the global community starting from 27 April to connect with the citizens and share the knowledge and communicate in simple, easy to understand language spread over six days through virtual webinar to start a consultative dialogue with all the stakeholders on issues concerning COVID 19 and how Indian Traditional Medicines (AYUSH) can play a role in globally to partner with Modern Medical Science. Role of Government of India to Empower Citizens-Patients to Fight Against Coronavirus: Government of India immediately sprang into action by launching a 24X7 Helpline Number on Phone and email: COVID-19 Helpline Number: +91-11- 23978046 Toll Free : 1075 Helpline Email ID: In order to enable citizens to access information from credible source and supplement the work done by Government of India and the State Governments, Patient Safety and Access Initiative of India Foundation (FSAIIF) decided to collaborate with the Institute of Medical Sciences (IMS), Banaras Hindu University (BHU) to reach out to the patients and citizens to take advantage of all the facilities provided by the various stakeholders to credible information and seek consultation on preventive and curative care through the telemedicine centre of BHU, which was made official by Government of India on 25 March 2020 through a publication on "Telemedicine Practice Guidelines Enabling Registered Medical Practitioners to Provide Healthcare Using Telemedicine" released by the BOARD OF GOVERNORS, In supersession of the Medical Council of India in partnership with NITI Aayog. Subsequently Government of India launched the National Tele-consultation Centre (CoNTeC) on 28 March 2020 a single mobile number (+91 9115444155) for seeking information from anywhere in the country/world by COVID-19 treating doctors to reach the CoNTeC which has six lines that can be used simultaneously at present. The incoming calls will be picked up by the CoNTeC Managers, who will then handover the call to the appropriate expert doctors from the clinical domains as desired by the calling specialists managing the COVID-19 cases anywhere in the country. The Managers will guide the callers in establishing a two way video call using the WhatsApp, Skype or Google Duo as preferred by the caller. The callers from the NMCN network can connect anytime using the Telemedicine infrastructure at their end. Subsequently BHU Telemedicine Centre started providing information and consultation to the citizens on phone number +91542-2368028 to connect with registered medical practitioners. The calls were received by operators and then as-per patient need - transferred to respective doctors for tele consultation.

6 tables, 23 ref

041003   KUMARI I, KUMAR R (Life Science Dep, Arni Univ, Kangra - 176 401, Himachal Pradesh, Email: drkumar83@rediffmail.com) : Pollen substitute diet for Apis mellifera: Consumption and effects on colony parameters in sub-tropical Himalaya. Indian J Agric Res 2020, 54(2), 147-53.

Apiculture plays an important role in improving crop productivity all over the world. The enrichment and enhancement of apiculture lies in the good health and hygiene of honey bees. Honeybees require pollen and nectar rich flowers to satisfy their nutritional requirements. But such flowers of bee’s interest are not available round the year. Therefore, honey bees require special care and management during dearth periods. The palatability, consumption and effects of protein-rich diet(s) were assessed on honey bee colonies of Apis mellifera. The colonies were also supplied with patties of diet formulated in laboratory (bee sup), diet proposed by Haydak (1967) and NBB, New Delhi (India), sugar syrup and no supplementary feed as control. Feeding trials were carried out during May to July 2017 and 2018, using 24 equalized experimental colonies receiving diet formulations for 8 weeks. The feed consumption for bee-sup was higher than Haydak’s diet during both the years. Significant differences were recorded for various colony attributes viz. sealed brood, unsealed brood, bee population, bee covered frames and honey production in the colonies provided bee-sup in comparison to Haydak’s diet, sugar syrup and control colonies. The results indicate the potential of bee-sup for improving strength, health and build up of colonies during dearth periods.

8 illus, 1 table, 38 ref

042776   PATEL R J, BHASKARAN L ( Microbiology Dep, Shri M. M. Patel Institute of Science and Research, Gandhinagar - 382 023, Gujarat, Email: rajeshri.patel0417@gmail.com) : Orange peel as an inducer for Laccase production in a novel fungal strain Peyronellaea pinodella BL-3/4 and optimization of its cultural parameters by single parameter approach. Indian J Sci Technol 2020, 13(16), 1656–67.

Laccases are one of the ligninolytic enzymes with wide industrial applications hence objective of present study is to optimize laccase production in novel fungal strain Peyronellaea pinodella BL-3/4. Fungal strains capable of oxidizing different lignin model compounds such as guaicol, syringaldazine and 2, 2'-Azino-bis (3ethylbenzthiozoline-6-sulphonic acid) were further tested for the laccase production in liquid media. 18s rRNA gene sequencing was performed to identify isolated novel fungal strain. Extracellular laccase activity from isolated fungal strain was optimized by the conventional `single parameter at a time' approach. Parameters used for this study included inoculum size, temperature, pH, agitation rate, lignocellulosic substrate, carbon source and nitrogen source. Among ten isolated laccase positive fungal strains, BL-3/4, exhibited maximum activity and morphological resemblance to Peyronellaea. 18s rRNA gene sequencing and phylogenetic analysis revealed that the isolated fungal strain is a novel one and identified as Peyronellaea pinodella BL-3/4. Optimization by single parameter approach leads to an 18 fold increase in laccase production by Peyronellaea pinodella BL-3/4. During the optimization of agro residues, orange peel acting as a substrate dramatically changed laccase production from 10.4 to 65.1 U/mL.No reports are available on Peyronellaea pinodella laccase activity and optimization of various factors affecting the laccase production. Orange peelings (an agro waste)as a substrate has increased the laccase production by six-fold in P. pinodella, this makes the fungi a better candidate for large scale production of laccase as well as for bioremediation, when compared to all other reported fungi.

36 illus, 12 ref

044768   BEKINBO M T, AMAH-TARIAH F S, DAPPER D V (Human Physiology Dep, Port-Harcourt Univ, Port Harcourt, Nigeria) : Comparative GC-MS determination of bioactive constituents of the methanolic extracts of Curcuma longa rhizome and Spondias mombin leaves. J Med Plants Stud 2020, 8(1), 1-6.

Over 80 % of the world’s population depends on herbal products for their primary healthcare requirements. The therapeutic potentials of many of these herbal products have been documented, however, more studies are needed to properly screen, identify and possibly characterize their various active ingredients. The present study attempts a comparative gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC-MS) determination of the bioactive constituents of the methanolic extracts of Curcuma longa rhizomes and Spondias mombin leaves. Results obtained indicated that although the extracts of both plants possess similar bioactive compounds: aromatic turmerone (ar-turmerone); turmerone and; cur lone the most abundant compounds were found to be aromatic turmerone for Curcuma longa and pentadecanoic acid for Spondias mombin. The possible biological effects of the identified compounds in both extracts are highlighted. Our findings provide rationale for the anecdotal use of both plants for treatment of similar medical conditions in our environment.

2 illus, 3 tables, 59 ref

040978   KUMAR A, KONGALA P R, JOHN S A, SRIVASTAVA S, LABHANE N M, RAMTEKE P W (Biological Sciences Dep, Sam Higginbottom Univ of Agriculture, Prayagraj - 211 007, Uttar Pradesh, Email: kprasadaraojc@gmail.com) : Alleviation of soybean terminal drought by selected plant growth regulators. Indian J Agric Biochem 2020, 33(2), 180-3.

The low soil moisture condition under climate change has been growing phenomenon in arid and semi-arid agroecosystems. Keeping this in focus, a study on soybean was undertaken to assess alleviation effect of plant growth regulators under induced drought at SHUATS- prayagraj, India. The drought experiment was laid in complete randomized design (CRD) and results were statistically analysed. The experiments constitute with four plant growth regulators viz., salicylic acid (T₁) @ 50ppm, GA₃ (T₂) @100ppm, kinetin (T₃) @500ppm, IAA (T₄) @0.1 mM and (T5)100µMsalicylic acid+100µM SNP as treatments to alleviate terminal drought. Among treatments, the foliar application of GA₃ @ 100 ppm has increased number of pods per plant, number of flowers per plant, and pod length significantly but (T₁) salicylic acid @ 50 ppm, has improved growth parameters viz., plant height (48.9cm), number of leaf/plant (26.6) and number of branch/plant (11.00), yield parameters viz., length of pod (3.8 cm), number of pods /plant (12.00), number of seed /pod (3.00), number of seed/ plant (36.00) and 100 seed weight (12.04 g). The results indicate that foliar application of salicylic acid – 50ppm improved the flowering ((18.3)), yield (12.00 pods /plant), and biochemical parameters indicating alleviation effect.

2 tables, 24 ref

044765   ABHIJITH D, NANDINI M D, VITTAL B G (Biochemistry Dep, Hassan Institute of Medical Sciences, Hassan, Karnataka, Email: vittal.bg@gmail.com) : Comparative study of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid plasma versus serum for assay of biochemical parameters. J Med Sci Health 2020, 6(2), 46-9.

The objective of the study was to assess the usefulness of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) plasma as an alternative to serum for glucose, renal function test, and liver function test. The use of plasma as compared to serum decreases the turnaround time, coagulationinduced interferences, gives high sample volume for analysis, and is economical. An observational cross-sectional study was done on blood samples of 51 patients. A 4 ml of blood was drawn from each patient by standard venipuncture technique. A 2 ml was collected in a plain red top Vacutainer and 2 ml in an EDTA Vacutainer. Red top tubes, after 20 min of clotting, were centrifuged for 5 min at 5000 rpm to separate serum. EDTA tubes were centrifuged immediately at 5000 rpm to separate plasma. Serum and plasma were analyzed with ERBA-EM-360 autoanalyzer for glucose, urea, creatinine, total bilirubin, direct bilirubin, total protein, albumin, aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). Results obtained were analyzed using paired “t-test.” Values of glucose, urea, total bilirubin, direct bilirubin, total protein, albumin, and ALP in serum and plasma samples showed statistically significant difference with P < 0.05. Plasma glucose was more as compared to serum glucose. Creatinine, AST, and ALT values in serum and plasma samples showed statistically no significant difference with P > 0.05. EDTA plasma can be used as an alternative to serum for creatinine, AST, and ALT but its use for urea, total bilirubin, direct bilirubin, total protein, albumin, and for ALP may not be appropriate.

2 tables, 9 ref

044762   ASHARANI N, DHANALAKSHMI T, SHYAMANTH M (Microbiology Dep, Adichunchanagiri Univ, Mandya, Karnataka, Email: drdhanalakshmita@bgsaims.edu.in) : Knowledge, attitude, and practices toward antibiotic usage and antibiotic resistance among medical students and interns: A cross-sectional study. J Med Sci Health 2020, 6(1), 12-7.

Adequate knowledge, attitude, and practices toward antibiotic usage and resistance among health caregiver are the need of the hour to lower the burden of antibiotic resistance. The present study was designed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practices toward antibiotic usage and resistance among medical students and interns. A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted at a tertiary care teaching hospital involving 5th, 7th, and 9th term medical students and interns. A pre-tested questionnaire with 22 knowledge and 13 attitude items was assessed by 3-point Likert scale and 9 practice items by yes/no. For knowledge items, each correct response represented with 1 mark. Grading of the knowledge was done as poor (≤50 %), adequate (51–75 %), and good (≥75 %). Frequency and proportions were used. The response rate was 98.39 % (367/373). Majority of the participants had adequate (46.6 %) to good (45.5 %) knowledge. Majority perceived that educating patients (94.8 %) and taking responsibility of judicious use of antibiotics by everyone (92.6 %) will reduce the burden of antibiotic resistance. However, 58 % of the students were of the opinion that skipping one or two doses will not lead to antibiotic resistance and 68.4 % of the participants felt that irrational use of antibiotic practices done at local level will not matter for the development of resistance globally. More than 90 % of the students executed good practice toward antibiotic usage. In spite of adequate to good knowledge, there were attitudinal lacunae toward antibiotic usage and resistance. Interestingly, regardless of casual attitudes, the self-reported practices of the participants were found to be substantially good. There is a need for strategizing educational programs for students and interns not only to enhance the knowledge but also to reshape the behavior of the students.

1 illus, 4 tables, 8 ref

040975   AMANTURDIEV I G, BOBOYEV S G, TASHPULATOVA G K (Biology Dep, National Univ of Uzbekistan, Tashkent - 100 174, Uzbekistan, Email: amanturdiyev.i@gmail.com) : Inheritance, disease resistance of cotton hybrids with different level of gossypol in seeds. Indian J Agric Biochem 2020, 33(2), 161-6.

The presence of gossypol in glands of cotton protects the plant from pests. However, there is limited information on how the level of (+)- and (-)-gossypol enantiomers affect resistance to insect and pathogens. We have evaluated the resistance of plants that exhibit the high (+)-gossypol seed trait to diseases (thielaviopsis basicola, rizactonia solani and xanthomonas malvacearum); effects of total seed gossypol on resistance to this insect and these pathogens was also evaluated. Field and greenhouse tests indicated that it should be possible to breed lines that exhibit the high (+)-gossypol seed trait and retain acceptable levels of insect and disease resistance together with acceptable levels of agronomic properties. The best lines in this study were crosses between the U.S. line Backcross-3 and the Uzbek variety Bukhara; this cross gave good acceptable resistance to all pathogens in both spring and autumn. We are continuing our studies to develop cotton lines that have a high percentage of (+)-gossypol in the seed. We have determined the total and percentage of (+) - and (- )-gossypol in U.S. accessions and Uzbek varieties, and in F₁-F₃ hybrids developed in crosses between these varieties. We found an intermediate type inheritance for (+)-gossypol in petals and seeds of F₁, and negative transgressive segregation for (+)-gossypol in seeds with 53.0 % in F₂ ; however, there appeared to be recombinants with (+)-gossypol of 96.0 % (at F₂ Bukhara-8 x Backcross-3).

3 tables, 29 ref

040958   AMANTURDIEV I G, BOBOYEV S G, MIRAKHMEDOV M S (Biology Dep, National Univ of Uzbekistan, ??????? - 100 174, Uzbekistan, Email: amanturdiyev.i@gmail.com) : correlation of (+) gossypol level in seeds of cotton hybrids to insect and disease resistance. Indian J Agric Biochem 2020, 33(1), 38-42.

Cotton is the most important fibre crop and the seed from the plant is a rich source of high quality protein and oil. However, the use of cottonseed as a feed for animals is limited by the presence of gossypol, which is contained in glands in the seed. Gossypol occurs in two stereoenantiomers referred to as (+)- and (-)-gossypol. Most of the toxicity of gossypol resides in the (-)- enantiomer. Gossypol helps protect the plant from pests. However, there is very limited information on how the level (+)- and (-)-gossypol enantiomers correlate with insect and disease resistance. To understand the influence of (+)- gossypol level in seeds on insect and disease resistance we have initiated a study to examine if a correlations exists between percent (+)-gossypol in the seed and resistance to pests. The objective of our research was to develop cotton breeding material with good agronomic qualities that are suited for growing in Uzbekistan, and with a high percentage of (+)- gossypol and determine resistance to insects and pathogens. Results from our research showed that it should be possible to develop cotton breeding material that exhibit the high (+)-gossypol trait in seed and provide suitable insect and diseases resistance with good agronomic traits.

3 tables, 25 ref

042694   AZZAM N F A E M (Microbiology Dep, Alexandria Univ, Egypt, Email: nashwaazam@yahoo.com ) : Antibacterial effect of eucalyptus essential oil. Indian J Sci Technol 2020, 13(7), 799 – 804.

To determine minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the Eucalyptus essential oil (EEO) and different antibiotics on Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 29213 and Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853, and on twenty bacterial isolates from wound swabs (10 S. aureus and 10 P. aeruginosa). In addition, to evaluate the antibacterial effect of combinations of EEO with selected antibiotics. Skin infection swabs were cultured; all bacterial isolates were identified according to conventional methods. Ten-gram positive isolates (S. aureus), and ten gram negative isolates (P. aeruginosa) were used to determine MIC of some antibiotics and EEO by broth microdilution methods. Checkerboard method was used to calculate fractional inhibitory concentration indexes. EEO exhibited a synergistic activity against S. aureus ATCC 29213 but only gave additive effect against P. aeruginosa ATCC 27853. Outcome of oil/vancomycin combination found to be synergistic in all tested clinical S. aureus isolates from infected wound swabs. While 80 % of clinical P. aeruginosa isolates showed additive outcome of EEO/ ceftazidime combination, and only 20 % of them gave indifference outcome. Dermatological applications of EEOs have been growing with great popularity worldwide. It can be used as ointments to treat various dermatological conditions such as abscesses, athlete’s foot, dermatitis, bacterial infections, blisters, boils, burns, cuts, and wounds.

4 tables, 15 ref

040880   AGARWAL A, DINAKAR S, TRIPATHY N K, SHARMA V, JOSHI S, LAGISETTI S D (Acceleration Physiology & Spatial Orientation Dep, Institute of Aerospace Medicine IAF, Bengaluru - 560 017, Karnataka, Email: dinakarsneha@gmail.com) : Colour vision standards: Past, present, and future. Indian J Aerosp Med 2020, 64(2), 93-9.

Historically, signal lights (red-green-amber) were used in shipping, rail, and road transportation. This colour schema continued in the aviation industry too. However, automation has taken over aviation sector with electronic maps and colour-coded multifunction displays. Despite sweeping changes seen in the use of colour coding in aviation, there is little change in colour vision standards and in the way colour vision testing is done for the aircrew, military and civil. The changing needs of aviation dictate that renewing the standards is necessary. Furthermore, the new standards will dictate aircraft design, and hence, it is mandatory that they remain current for the next 50 years or so. It becomes necessary to understand the role colour vision plays in the modern cockpit and suggest the colour vision standards accordingly. In the same breath, it is important to understand the evolution of colour vision testing and colour theories, so as to develop or adopt a more suitable test for the changing aviation scenario.

34 ref

040874   SANNIGRAHI P, KUMAR A, MISHRA S, NATARAJA M S (Acceleration Physiology & Spatial Orientation Dep, Institute of Aerospace Medicine IAF, Bengaluru - 560 017, Karnataka, Email: drpolash_mrmc@yahoo.co.in) : Autokinesis illusion in fighter flying revisited. Indian J Aerosp Med 2020, 64(2), 56-61.

Autokinesis refers to the perception of motion which is experienced by an aircrew when he fixates his gaze on a stationary point/source of light in an otherwise completely darkened environment. A study was conducted in the Department of Acceleration Physiology and Spatial Orientation, Institute of Aerospace Medicine to determine the time taken for onset of autokinesis in the disorientation simulator (Air Fox DISO) and the effectiveness of various intervention strategies to break the illusion A total of 103 randomly selected fighter pilots participated in the study. They were briefed about the illusion and the various interventions used to counteract it, such as: (a) Shrugging of shoulders without breaking gaze, (b) stretching of arms without breaking gaze, (c) breaking of gaze for 5 s and (d) breaking of gaze for 10 s (if the illusion is not broken after breaking of gaze for 5 s). Time taken for autokinesis to set in and the effectiveness of the interventions used were noted. Subjective feedback from the participating aircrew was also obtained on their experience on autokinesis illusion in active flying through a structured questionnaire. The average time required for onset of the autokinesis illusion in the DISO was observed to be 20.3 ± 15.5 s (range 4.1–121.4 s). Of the 103 aircrew participants, 100 (97.1 %) reported that the intervention of stretching of arms was effective, 94 aircrew (91.3 %) reported that the intervention of shoulder shrug was effective in breaking the illusion and 99 aircrew (96.1 %) were able to counter the illusion by breaking their gaze for duration of 5 s. Autokinesis was experienced in active flying by 17 aircrew, accounting for an incidence of 16.5 %. This study reveals that autokinesis involves the interplay of vision, vestibular system, as well as the proprioceptive stimulus in counteracting this illusion. A combination of gaze break and shoulder shrug/arm stretch could be the most appropriate intervention strategy under such circumstances. The operational scenarios conducive for causing this illusion and the physiological basis for the various intervention strategies have been discussed. The autokinesis illusion though considered benign has got significant potential for distraction during operational flying. The intervention strategies discussed in the study are effective in breaking the illusion. The pilot community needs to be aware of the preconditions, mechanism, and effectiveness of the intervention strategies in countering this illusion.

2 illus, 3 tables, 10 ref

040872   MOHAPATRA S S, ANAND K, RAJU A V K (High Altitude Physiology and Hyperbaric Medicine Dep, Institute of Aerospace Medicine IAF, Bengaluru - 560 017, Karnataka, Email: ssmbluewater@yahoo.co.in) : Impact of 24 h of isolation and confinement exposure on psychological state of healthy human volunteers. Indian J Aerosp Med 2020, 64(1), 37-45.

During space missions, crew is encountered with various psychological challenges. One major challenge during space mission is the issue of isolation and confinement. Understanding of human behavior and performance in isolated and confined environment (ICE) has been the area of interest for all those involved in human space program. Ground-based mission-specific studies are necessary before undertaking any specific mission so that the psychological impact of ICE can be investigated in details. The first human space flight of India, which may be launched in the near future, may involve for a duration not more than 24 h. This scientific experiment was undertaken with an aim to study the impact of 24 h isolation and confinement on psychological state of healthy human volunteers. During 24 h period of isolation and confinement, 10 healthy human volunteers were evaluated every 10–12 h with State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, Positive and Negative Affect State (PANAS), and Profile of Mood States (POMS) in the existing Isolation cum Group Confinement laboratory of Institute of Aerospace Medicne (IAM). Similar psychological evaluation was also carried out among nine healthy individuals who served as controls. There was a momentary increase in state anxiety level during early period of isolation and confinement exposure (ICE). However, the anxiety level returned to pre-exposure level after 24 h. Furthermore, there was a significant drop in the level of negative emotions among the subject group as well as among control group in the morning of day 2 though there was no significant change in the positive emotions. Over the period of 24 h of isolation and confinement, neither the subject group nor the control group showed statistically significant changes in the total mood disturbance. None of the groups showed any significant changes in any of the POMS subscales, that is, anger-hostility, confusion-bewilderment, depression-dejection, fatigue-inertia, and tension-anxiety except for vigor-activity. Thus, a stable mood state was observed among the participants. Before exposure to isolation and confinement, the subject group exhibited a higher level of “State” anxiety on day 1 which had returned to pre-exposure level in the morning of day 2. In both days, the state of positive emotions was statistically insignificant among subject as well as among control group. However, a significant decrease in the level of negative emotions among the subject group and control group was observed. There was no significant change in the mood state in the study group as well as in the control group

3 illus, 3 tables, 20 ref

040841   KUMAR S, PATIL R D, VERMA S, KUMAR A, SINGH G, DHIAL K, SHARMA M (Veterinary Microbiology Dep, HPKV, Palampur - 176 062, Email: sk62270@gmail.com) : Prevalence of diff erent types of neoplasms among dogs of Himachal Pradesh, India : A preliminary study. Indian J Vet Pathol 2020, 44(2), 119-22.

Neoplasms are the more common and leading cause of death in dogs. The increased lifespan of dogs due to better nutritionand prophylactic measures made them more susceptible to tumors. The present study was conducted to find out the prevalenceof various types of tumors in dogs in the area of Himachal Pradesh. The surgically removed tumor tissue samples were fixed with10 % neutral buffered formalin, processed, stained with hematoxylin and eosin, and examined under the microscope. A total of 56 dogs were found to be affected by one or another type of neoplasm during the period from 2016 to 2018. The prevalence of these neoplasms was categorized according to sex, age, location-wise and tissue type on histological examination. The present study showed female dogs had the highest prevalence rate of 55.36 % compared with male dogs 44.64 %. The dogs of the age group of six to nine years had the highest prevalence rate of 35.71 % and lowest 37.50 % in the age group of less than 3 years. Genitalia wasfound to be the most common site affected by the tumor. A transmissible venereal tumor (TVT) has the highest prevalence rate of 37.50 % followed by squamous cell carcinoma (12.50 %) and mammary carcinoma (10.79 %).

1 illus, 1 table, 24 ref

040840   DINESH M, THAKOR J, VISHWA K V, PATHAK M, PATEL S, SAIKUMAR G, KUMAR P, QURESHI S, SUBBAIYAN A, SINGH K P, SAHOO M (Pathology Div, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Uttar Pradesh - 243 122, Email: vety.lisa@gmail.com) : Meningoencephalitis and septicemia in a 4-week-old piglet due to dual streptococcal infections. Indian J Vet Pathol 2020, 44(2), 114-8.

A 4-week-old male crossbred piglet was presented for necropsy examination with history of neurological signs progressing to death. Grossly, the meninges covering the brain were thickened, opaque containing purulent exudates. Besides, the other visceral organs like lungs, heart, spleen, lymph nodes, kidneys and intestine were severely congested. Histologically, suppurative meningoencephalitis was observed in addition to suppurative bronchopneumonia, hepatitis, nephritis and splenitis indicating the septicemia in pig. Immunolabelling of S. suis antigen was observed in meninges, brain, lungs, spleen, tonsil and lymph nodes. Both S. suis and S. dysgalactiae subspecies equisimilis were isolated from the brain, lungs and spleen. The biochemical characterization by API 20 strep kit and genomic detection test by PCR further confirmed both the isolates. This is the first report of dual infection of S. suis and S. dysgalactiae subspecies equisimilis infection in a pig with severe disseminated suppurative meningoencephalomyelitis.

3 illus, 14 ref

040839   PRASATH N B, SELVARAJ J, TAMILMAHAN P, SASIKALA M (Veterinary Pathology Dep, TANUVAS, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, Email: vetdrprasad@gmail.com) : Superficial acral fibromyxoma of horn : A rare neoplasm and histomorphological entity in an Indian bullock. Indian J Vet Pathol 2020, 44(2), 107-9.

A four year non-descript bullock was presented to Veterinary Clinical Complex, Veterinary College and Research Institute, Orathanadu, TANUVAS, Tamilnadu with a history of slow growing mass near the base of the left horn. On examination, a protruding, whitish grey, smooth and soft, unlobulated mass was noticed on the body of the left horn. Biopsy specimen was collected and preserved. Histologically, the tissue consisted of mixed population of repetitively arranged fibroblast in whorls with prominent nuclei and stellate cells with cytoplasmic tails. Abundant collagenous and mucinous stroma were present. Abnormal mitotic figures were absent. On special staining, collagenous stroma was more prominent in Masson’s trichrome and blue stained mucinous stroma was seen in Alcian blue technique. Based on the histological features the case was diagnosed as acral fibromyxoma. The case describes the first incidence of fibromyxoma in horn of Indian catte.

4 illus, 11 ref

044647   HERWINA H, SAKAMAKI Y, SATRIA R, JANRA M N (Biology Dep, Andalas Univ, West Sumatra- 25163, Indonesia, Email: hennyherwina@sci.unand.ac.id) : Ground-dwelling ants species diversity (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) at conservation forest and oil-palm plantation in Sumatra, Indonesia. J Ent Res 2020, 44(1), 113-20.

This study aimed to investigate the diversity of ground-dwelling ant species within the conservation forest patch and the plantation area of an oil-palm plantation in Sumatra. Modified quadra protocol was applied to collect ants at five sites in the conservation forest and one location in the oil-palm plantation. A total of 76 ground-dwelling ant species belonging to 36 genera and six subfamilies were collected. The subfamily Myrmicinae was the highest in total species number (31) collected followed by Formicinae (29) and Ponerinae (9). The diversity index for the overall species collected was 3.00. Ant species diversity in both sites showed that the area still retains high diversity value for ants, and presumably for other taxa as well.

2 illus, 4 tables, 24 ref

040837   RAO N S, PRADEEP M, HAMZA P, PRASANNNA K S, ANOOPRAJ R, GEORGE A J (Veterinary Pathology Dep, Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences Univ, Wayanad - 673 576, Kerala, Email: 12.nikhil.rao@gmail.com) : Histological grading of hepatic amyloidosis in ducks. Indian J Vet Pathol 2020, 44(2), 101-3.

Duck farming is very popular in various parts of the world. Even though ducks are highly predisposed to amyloidosis, study on histological grading of amyloidosis and its correlation with gross fi ndings in the visceral organs are scarce. In the current study, we necropsied 112 duck carcasses over a period of one year and the occurrence of hepatic amyloidosis was studied and histological scoring was made. The study revealed amyloidosis in 61.61 per cent carcasses. We analysed the livers of such ducks histologically for the extent and paĴ ern of amyloid deposits. The extent of amyloid deposition was graded as mild, moderate or severe. In severe amyloidosis without cellularity, the liver grossly showed deep yellow discolouration of the parenchyma. In moderate amyloidosis characterised by islands of hepatocytes and erythrocytes, the liver grossly showed pale pink to brownish discolouration. In mild amyloidosis with preserved hepatocellular architecture, the gross discolouration of the liver was minimum. The histological severity of amyloidosis could be directly correlated with the gross features in liver tissue specimens.

11 illus, 1 table, 8 ref

040836   KRISHNEGOWDA D N, MARIAPPAN A K, DHAMA K, SINGH K P, SINGH B R, SAMINATHAN M, RAMALINGAM R, SINGH V, REDDY M R (ICAR-Directorate of Poultry, Hyderabad - 500 030, Telangana, Email: rrmaddula@yahoo.com) : Pathobiology of diff erent chicken organs in septicemic deaths. Indian J Vet Pathol 2020, 44(2), 91-100.

Septicemia in chicken is one of the main causes of death and leads to signifi cant fi nancial losses for the poultry farmers. There is very scarce information available in India on its pathology in chicken. Many bacterial pathogens are known to cause septicemia, either as primary agents or secondary agents, in association with other bacteria or viruses. The present study was conducted to explore the pathology in various organs of septicemic chickens. A total of 443 chicken carcasses with septicemic conditions from 71 diff erent fl ocks were included in this study. The necropsy revealed 18.74 %, 20.32 %, and 60.95 % of birds with mild, moderate and severe gross lesions respectively. Polyserositis with lesions such as hepatomegaly, splenomegaly and necrosis in the liver as well as generalized congestion were reported more frequently. On histopathological investigation, the more severe lesions were detected in the following organs: in decreasing order, the heart (66.20 %), liver (64.79 %), lungs (60.56 %) and spleen (57.75 %). Various microscopic lesions characteristic of septicemia have been reported, earlier ranging from acute infl ammatory reactions such as vascular changes to chronic lesions such as granulomatous infl ammation and fi brosis. Here, we made a fi rst aĴ empt to score gross and histopathological changes of septicemia in chicken and identifi ed, described and documented the most common and distinctive septicemic lesions in diff erent organs. This study was limited to 71 fl ocks of chicken suspected of septicemia due to limited logistics and time constraints. Hence detailed longitudinal study involving diff erent types of birds with large sample size is required to elucidate the pathology of septicemia in chickens and to learn more about associated pathogens.

12 illus, 3 tables, 43 ref

044643   RESTI RAHAYU, FATIMAH G, HASMIWATI (Biology Dep, Andalas Univ, Padang, Indonesia, Email: restirahayu@sci.unand.ac.id) : Susceptibility status and Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) enzyme activity on Aedes aegypti L. (Diptera: Culicidae) Larvae against temephos. J Ent Res 2020, 44(1), 93-8.

Dengue hemorrhagic fever cases are high in Kota Pariaman West Sumatra and temephos is being used indiscriminately for its vector control. Present study is aimed to determine the susceptibility status and analyze the activity of acetylcholinesterase enzyme on Aedes aegypti larvae in Kota Pariaman West Sumatra. The susceptibility test was carried out using the WHO method, and biochemical tests of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) enzyme activity was done using the ELISA method. The mosquito larvae were found resistant to temephos using WHO diagnostic concentration (0.012 mg/L) and high resistant using ELISA method with absorbance values in living mosquitoes of 0.98-1.58 and dead mosquitoes of 0.92-1. The values of AChE enzyme activity in living mosquito larvae after insecticide exposure was 7.894 U/L, which is higher than dead larvae was 4.813 U/L and control larvae (without insecticide exposure) was 7.540 U/L.

1 illus, 3 tables, 24 ref

040827   BEHERA D, PATHAK D C, SHARMA R K, UPADHYAYA T N, GOSWAMI S, TAMULY S (Pathology, Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry Coll, Tripura, West - 799 008, Email: behera.debasish1@gmail.com) : Pathology and molecular diagnosis of necrotic enteritis in chicken. Indian J Vet Pathol 2020, 44(1), 22-8.

The present research work was carried out with an aim to study the pathology of necrotic enteritis in chickens followed by isolation and molecular detection of C. perfringens. Total 320 numbers of samples were collected from 15 districts in Assam. Isolation and identifi cation of C. perfringens by cultural, morphological characteristics and confi rmation was done by detection of cpa gene of C. perfringens by PCR with virulence toxin genes of C. perfringens such as TpeL and NetB. The clinical signs shown by the birds were diarrhoea, dehydration, depression, reluctance to move, loss of appetite, ruffl ed feathers, drooping of wings and head and huddling. The gross lesions of intestine revealed haemorrhagic, eroded, detached dead mucosal tissues, diphtheritic membrane, and distention. Liver, kidneys and lungs showed congestion, haemorrhage and focal areas of necrosis. Histopathology of NE in chickens revealed congestion of blood vessels in the lamina propria and submucosa with vacuolation of epithelial cells of intestinal villi with necrosis, making the villi broader and shorter. Diff erent developmental stages of coccidia were also seen in the mucosal epithelial cells in few birds during this study. Liver, kidneys, heart, lungs, spleen, bursa of Fabricius and brain showed variable nature of histopathological lesions like congestion, haemorrhage and focal areas of coagulative necrosis.

13 illus, 1 table, 33 ref

040826   SHAILJA P, LATHER D, CHHABRA R, NEHRA V, SHARMA C, NARANG G (Veterinary Pathology Dep, LUVAS, Hisar, Haryana, Email: deepikalather@yahoo.co.in) : Pathobiological investigations on multidrug resistant Escherichia coli infections in chickens. Indian J Vet Pathol 2020, 44(1), 15-21.

Multiple drug-resistant Escherichia coli infections are a growing public health concern. The investigation included through post mortem examination of 329 poultry carcasses brought to the Department of Veterinary Pathology, LUVAS, Hisar. E. coli infections were observed in 45.6 % broilers, 15.0 % layers and 17.5 % dual purpose breed chickens mainly in the age group of 0-1, 1-6 wks and in more than 12-24 wks and adults. Microbiological confi rmation was carried out on the basis of primary culture and biochemical assays using Vitek-2 analysis system using pure colonies of diff erent bacterial isolates. A total of 57.5 % (46) isolates of E. coli were obtained from liver and heart blood from diseased chickens which were found associated with diff erent disease conditions including colisepticemia (65.2 %), ascites (8.6 %), air sacculitis (17.4 %) and gangrenous dermatitis in association with Marek’s disease (4.3%). The serotypes of E.coli isolated include O83 (10), O84 (1), O121 (6), O118 (2), O49 (3), O157 (1). E. coli isolates were found to be most sensitive to gentamicin (100 %) followed by polymyxin B (87 %) and streptomycin (82.61 %). Upon studying the multiple drug resistance (MDR) paĴ ern, about 91.3 % E. coli isolates showed MDR paĴ ern.

6 illus, 2 tables, 35 ref

040823   SHARMA S, GUPTA R P, JANGIR B L, LATHER D, HAZARI R (Veterinary Pathology Dep, Lala Lajpat Rai Univ of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Hisar - 125 004, Haryana, Email: sonusharmavet@gmail.com) : Pathomorphological studies and immunohistochemical expression of p53 and pan-cytokeratin in bovine epithelial tumors. Indian J Vet Pathol 2020, 44(1), 1-6.

The present study communicates the pathomorphological features and immunohistochemical expression of p53 and pan-cytokeratin in 16 cases of bovine epithelial tumors. Histopathologically, these were diagnosed as papilloma, squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and adenoma. Papillomas located on various parts of skin were characterized by outward papillary projections of stratifi ed squamous epithelium having connective tissue in centre. SCCs were classifi ed as diff erentiated or undiff erentiated types. Well diff erentiated SCCs were characterized by islands of stratifi ed epithelium, cell nests, pleomorphic hyperchromatic nuclei and occasionally mitotic fi gures, while poorly diff erentiated SCC showed tumor islands but devoid of cell nests. Undiff erentiated SCCs noticed in eyes or horn revealed group of epithelial cells with variable morphological features arranged as cords or islands without keratinized layer in centre and numerous mitotic fi gures. Variations in paĴ ern of nuclear p53 immunoreactivity were noticed among diff erent SCCs. p53 immunoreactivity was not noticed in benign epithelial tumors. All tumors showed cytoplasmic pan-cytokeratin immunoreactivity with variable staining intensity. It is concluded that undiff erentiated epithelial tumors can be confi rmed by pan-cytokeratin immunostaining and p53 expression is more in malignant than benign SCCs.

3 illus, 1 table, 23 ref

040819   MALKANI R, AHUJA H, TARE A, SETIA M S (Jaslok Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai - 400 026, Maharashtra, Email: malkanipub@gmail.com) : Should we start looking at the elderly for human immunodeficiency virus infections? A study of trends of human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis B virus, and hepatitis C virus in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. Indian J Sex Transm Dis AIDS 2020, 41(2), 169-75.

There is limited information on the trends of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), and hepatitis C virus (HCV) co-infections in India – particularly from private health-care settings. We designed the present research to estimate the prevalence of HIV, HBV, and HCV over a period of 7 years and study the factors associated with them. The present study is a secondary data analysis of data from the laboratory records of 24,086 individuals who were tested over a period of 7 years (2009–2015). We estimated the proportion and 95 % confidence intervals (CIs) for HIV, hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), and HCV antibodies. The overall seroprevalence of HIV was 0.35 % (95 % CI: 0.27 %, 0.44 %), HBsAg was 1.65 % (95 % CI: 1.48 %, 1.82 %), and HCV was 1.73 % (95 % CI: 1.56 %, 1.90 %). The prevalence of HIV among those who were more than 70 years of age was 0.14 % (95 % CI: 0.04 %, 0.32 %). The prevalence of HBsAg was highest in those aged 30–39 years (2.27 %, 95 % CI: 1.74 %, 2.92 %) (P = 0.008). The prevalence of HIV/HBsAg co-infection was 0.019 % (95 % CI: 0.005 %, 0.050 %), HIV/HCV co-infection was 0.005 % (95 % CI: 0.000, 0.027 %), and HBsAg/HCV co-infection was 0.059 % (95 % CI: 0.030 %, 0.102 %). We did not encounter even a single case of all the three infections. HIV infection is relatively high in those who were aged 50 years of more; thus, they need to be included in the National AIDS Control Programme. HIV/HBV/HCV co-infections should be regularly monitored in surveillance programs, and antiretroviral therapy officers and counselors should be trained on the management of HIV in those who are co-infected.

1 illus, 4 tables, 28 ref

040815   JAYAPALAN S, BINDU R S (Dermatology and Venereology Dep, Government Medical Coll, Thiruvananthapuram - 695 011, Kerala, Email: sabinajayapalan@gmail.com) : Papanicolaou smear: A diagnostic aid in sexually transmitted infections. Indian J Sex Transm Dis AIDS 2020, 41(2), 143-8.

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a major public health problem in developing countries, and treatment with the right medicine at the right time is necessary to reduce transmission and improve sexual and reproductive health. Laboratory diagnosis has undergone changes in the recent years. The new generation tests are not cost-effective in resource-poor settings. Papanicolaou smear (Pap smear) of the cervix is a simple, quick, and inexpensive screening procedure for cervical cancer that can also give a clue to the presence of STIs. A hospital‑based cross‑sectional design with fifty patients was conducted studied. The initial diagnosis based on clinical findings and routine laboratory results was compared with the final diagnosis incorporating Pap smear results. The Pap smear was abnormal in 96 %, and the abnormalities were koilocytosis (30 %), endocervicitis (24 %), Trichomonas vaginalis (16 %), multinucleated giant cells (10 %), low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (10 %), and clue cells (8 %). Pap smear could diagnose an infection in 64 %, of which 38 % were asymptomatic. Clinical and Pap smear correlation was found only in 26 % of the patients. Along with the conventional methods, Pap smear can be a valuable tool in diagnosing STIs. This can detect asymptomatic infections, not detected by conventional methods, thus preventing complications and further spread in the community. Asymptomatic human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and trichomoniasis are the two STIs that can be easily detected by Pap smear. By detecting asymptomatic cervical HPV infection, the patients at risk for carcinoma of the cervix can be identified and referred to gynecology department for further management.

6 illus, 2 tables, 26 ref

040814   KEISHAM C, GUITE Z, KULABIDHU H (Dermatology Dep, Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences, Imphal - 795 001, Manipur, Email: dr.chitralekhakeisham@gmail.com) : Sexual behavior pattern in the young attending sexually transmitted infection clinic in a tertiary health‑care center. Indian J Sex Transm Dis AIDS 2020, 41(1), 97-9.

Half of all new HIV infections occur in young people(15-24years). Unfortunately, the study on the sexual behaviour pattern in these age group is lacking. It is retrospective, cross sectional study assessing adolescent and youth between 10 to 24 years presenting to STD clinic in a tertiary health care centre as a part of their risk assessment. Adolescent and youth were a total of 17.13 %(165) amongst 963 STD clinic attendees. The male to female ratio was 84:81. The mean age for male±1SD was 21.17±2.26 years and for female±1SD was 20.54±2.37 years. Around 47.27 % (78) were students at various levels of education. Earliest onset of sexual activity was at 14 years. Risky sexual behaviour was reported in 75.75 % clients. Onset of sexual activity was earlier in females with 24.6 % having sex before the age of 18 years as compared to 15.4 % in males. Condom use was poor. Around 63 % had heard of HIV or AIDS. The young being a vulnerable age group, education on safe sex, condom use and other protective measures should be strengthened.

4 tables, 7 ref

040813   NAMAJI M A A S, PATHAN S H, BALKI A M (Microbiology Dep, Military Hospital, Shillong - 793 001, Meghalaya, Email: ashrafnamaji@gmail.com) : Profile of intestinal parasitic infections in human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome patients in Northeast India. Indian J Sex Transm Dis AIDS 2020, 41(1), 93-6.

Diarrhea is one of the major complications occurring in over 90 % of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected individuals in developing countries. Coccidian group of parasitic infections remain the standout opportunistic pathogens in many parts of the world. The objective was to understand the profile of diarrheagenic parasites in HIV/AIDS patients along with analysis of the changing trends in the profile of parasitic diarrhea with special context to coccidian parasitic infections. A cross-sectional study was performed at “ID CENTRE FOR NORTHEAST,” Shillong, from January 2014 to October 2017. Stool samples collected were observed microscopically for parasites both on direct and concentrated stool samples under ×10 and ×40 magnification. Modified acid‑fast staining was used for the detection of coccidian parasites. All statistical analyses were performed using IBM SPSS software, Version 24.0. The prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections was 40.99 %, coccidian parasitic infection accounted for 85.13 % of total intestinal parasitic infections. Cryptosporidium parvum was the most common cause of diarrhea (70.64 %), followed by Cystoisospora belli (23.81 %) and Cyclospora spp. (5.55 %). Trend analysis of coccidian etiology during the study revealed a significant rise in the positivity of Cryptosporidium spp. and a decrease in the Cystoisosporiasis belli infection. The common noncoccidian parasites identified include hookworm (8.1 %) followed by Ascaris lumbricoides (4.7 %). The magnitude of parasitic infections is considerably high among the HIV/AIDS patients in Northeast India, and it is essential for screening and periodic monitoring of all the HIV patients for coccidian parasites by stool microscopy.

3 illus, 2 tables, 16 ref

040812   BRITTO J J, YUVARAJ J (Health Services Research Div, National Institute of Epidemiology, Chennai, Tamil Nadu) : Is there any perceptiveness about the mode of transmission of human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immune deficiency syndrome? An analysis among the adolescent tribal students in Tamil Nadu. Indian J Sex Transm Dis AIDS 2020, 41(1), 88-92.

Cognizance about human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) among the community is still lacking. Seldom studies done in tribal area and to indentify the awareness about HIV/AIDS among the adolescent tribal students in Jawadhu hills of Tamil Nadu, with the objectives includes on social, demographical, and knowledge about HIV/AIDS were taken. For primary data, survey method and secondary data from various literatures gathered. Schedule tribe adolescent students, between the age groups of 13–21 years, from 8^th to 12^th standard, exclusively from Vellore and Tiruvannamalai educational districts, were taken, by applying STRATA method. A total of 938 students from various tribal schools participated. Amongst them, 507 (54 %) were males and 431 (46 %) were females. Half of the respondents (50 %) agreed that blood transfusion, intravenous drug use, and sharing infected needles are the major modes of transmission. Nearly 35 % agreed that HIV/AIDS is transmitted by hugging, tattooing, dirty hands, breastfeeding, kissing on cheeks, shaving at the barber shop, shaking hands with AIDS patients, homosexuality and are food and waterborne. Formal HIV/AIDS education should be mandatory in their curriculum, where teachers get an opportunity to deliver the scientific information about HIV/AIDS. To acquire better knowledge about HIV/AIDS, sex education should be included in the mainstream of curriculum with the assistance of educational consultants, professional social workers, and also local non-governmental organizations to conduct further mindfulness camps about the HIV/AIDS.

6 tables, 17 ref

040811   EVARISTA O O, EZIMOKHAI T P, AIRIAGBONBU B (Medical Laboratory Science Dep, Benin Univ, Benin City, Nigeria, Email: evarista.osime@uniben.edu) : Effect of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) on some specific clotting profile in Human Immunodeficiency Virus ‑(HIV) positive pregnant women. Indian J Sex Transm Dis AIDS 2020, 41(1), 83-7.

In many developing countries with a significant proportion of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)‑positive patients are women of child-bearing age and would require antiretroviral therapy. This study aimed at evaluating the effect of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) on some specific clotting profile in HIV‑positive pregnant women. This study comprised 150 patients consisting of 50 blood samples from pregnant women on HAART as test subjects, 50 pregnant HIV-positive women that were not on HAART as test subjects, and 50 pregnant HIV-negative women which served as controls. The test subjects were attending the prevention of mother-to-child transmission Clinic at the Central Hospital, Benin City. Specific clotting factors assayed were factors 11, V, V11, V111, 1X, X, X1, and X11. All were done using ELISA methods. Factors 11 and V were reduced significantly in HIV‑infected pregnant women on HAART and those not on HAART (P < 0.05) when compared with HIV‑negative pregnant women. A significant increase in factors V11, V111, 1X, X, and X11 were observed in HIV‑positive patients on HAART and those not on HAART when compared with HIV-negative pregnant women (P < 0.05). However, when HIV-positive patients on HAART were compared to HIV-positive women not on HAART, no statistical difference were observed (P > 0.005). There are changes in clotting profile of HIV‑positive women on HAART and on those not on HAART and these changes are not due to the administration of antiretroviral therapy.

4 tables, 18 ref

040810   STEPHEN N, GUSEN N J, KUMZHI P R, GAKNUNG B, AUTA D A, BULNDI L B, MBURSA C , KUMARI V P, NANVYAT N (Nursing Sciences Dep, Jos Univ, Plateau State, Nigeria, Email: snanbur@gmail.com) : Effectiveness of structured teaching programme on transmission and prevention of human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immune deficiency syndrome among adolescent girls in lowry memorial high school, Bengaluru. Indian J Sex Transm Dis AIDS 2020, 41(1), 73-82.

Adolescence is a critical stage in human development. Most young people become sexually active during adolescence and are more likely to have multipartner and unprotected sex with high-risk behavior that predisposes them to sexually transmitted infections such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The objective of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a structured teaching programme on transmission and prevention of HIV/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) among adolescent girls. An evaluative research approach was adopted, in which a preexperimental, one group pre- and post-test research design was used to evaluate the effectiveness of the structured teaching programme on transmission and prevention of HIV/AIDS among adolescent girls studying at Lowry Memorial High School, Bengaluru. A self-administered structured questionnaire was used for data collection. Data were presented in frequency tables and statistical graphs (bar charts) and analyzed using descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation) and inferential statistical methods (Chi-square and paired “t”-tests) using SPSS version 21. The findings of the study revealed that the mean percentage difference in the pre- and post-test knowledge scores was statistically significant at 5 % level (P < 0.05). The overall mean post-test knowledge score of adolescent girls on transmission and prevention of HIV/AIDS was 88.83 %. It is apparently higher compared to the pretest knowledge score, which was 67.67 % with enhancement of 21.16 %. This implies that the structured teaching programme was effective in gaining knowledge of adolescent girls regarding transmission and prevention of HIV/AIDS. Our study suggests that structured teaching programme enhanced the knowledge of the adolescent girls on transmission and prevention of HIV/AIDS. We, therefore, recommend that structured teaching programmes on transmission and prevention of HIV/AIDS should be encouraged among adolescents and youths to reduce the spread of HIV infection.

2 illus, 6 tables, 28 ref

040809   DESIKAN P, RANGNEKAR A, TIWARI K, PANWALKAR N, PATERIYA M, RAJPUT V S (Microbiology Dep, Bhopal Memorial Hospital & Research Centre, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, Email: prabhadesikan@yahoo.com) : Sociodemographic profile of patients attending the integrated counseling and testing center at a government super‑specialty hospital in Central India. Indian J Sex Transm Dis AIDS 2020, 41(1), 68-72.

The HIV epidemic continues to be a matter of concern worldwide. Integrated counseling and testing center (ICTC) is an opening wedge for HIV diagnosis and support services, especially to the high-risk groups. Counseling and testing is a cost-effective and simple way of reducing HIV transmission. The aim of the study was to analyze the sociodemographic profiles of the ICTC attendees to evaluate the changing trends of HIV seropositivities over a period of 7 years. This was a retrospective study done in the ICTC housed in a tertiary care hospital at Bhopal. All attendees in the period of 7 years were included. Statistical analysis used: percentages and proportions were calculated. There were 24,853 ICTC attendees from January 2009 to January 2016, of which 183 (6.41 %) attendees were tested seropositive. There were 15,555 (62.5 %) males and 9298 (37.5 %) female attendees. Among 15,555 males, 151 (0.97 %) were seropositive, and of 9298 females, 32 (0.34 %) were seropositive. Of 151 seropositive males, 62 (41 %) were in the age group of 19–30 years and 48 (31.7 %) were in the age group of 31–40 years. Among the seropositive females, 9 (28.1 %) were in the age group of 19–30 years and 10 (31.2 %) were in the age group of 31–40 years. We observed a rise in total number of ICTC attendees from January 2009 to January 2016. The number of attendees increased to 4655 in 2013, of which 27 (0.58 %) were seropositive, and by 2015, there were 4982 attendees with only 6 (0.12 %) seropositives. Such rising trends of attendees and a steady decline in the seropositivity rates are encouraging signs, reflecting the contribution of the ICTC in creating awareness, and reducing the transmission of HIV among the population served.

2 illus, 6 tables, 14 ref