000118   VENKATA NAVEEN KUMAR P, ANTONY L J, MAHARANI B, JAIKUMAR S, SOMASUNDARAM G (Pharmacology Dep, Sri Lakshmi Narayana Institute of Medical Sciences, Puducherry, Email: hiwedz@gmail.com) : Prescription pattern of drugs used in pediatric patients of a tertiary care hospital in Puducherry. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(4), 380-4.

Irrational prescription of drugs leads to increased occurrence of adverse drug reactions, prolonged hospitalization, and increases the economic burden for the patients. Children are the most vulnerable group affected by the irrational prescription of drugs. Hence, it is essential to follow rational prescription practices for better safety of children. This study aimed to assess the prescription patterns of drug utilization in pediatric patients admitted in the tertiary care hospital and to identify the potential targets in improving drug prescription pattern. Prescriptions data were collected from the minimal residual disease. Among 1038 prescriptions, the majority of prescriptions were female patients followed by male patients. Furthermore, most of the commonly prescribed group of drug was nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (18 %) and antimicrobial (17 %). Most of the drugs prescribed, using generic names were of 76 % from the essential drug list. Most of the fixed-dose combination (FDC) drugs were used for the common cold (76) and antibiotic drugs accounted were of 42 of the prescription. From this study, it is concluded that the usage of antibiotics and its dosage forms are compliant with the WHO prescription indicators. However, there is a need to improve the prescription pattern of generic drugs and FDC.

5 illus, 3 tables, 13 ref

000117   KUMARI R, VIVEK K, DHANVIJAY A, GATHE B (Physiology Dep, Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences, Ranchi, Jharkhand, Email: dr.leeyaimran@gmail.com) : Evaluation of hemostatic parameters of apparently normal pregnant Indian females in different trimesters. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(4), 375-9.

Pregnancy is a state of hypercoagulation which is likely an adaptive mechanism to maintain placental function during pregnancy and to prevent excessive bleeding in delivery but may increase the tendency of thromboembolism in predisposed pregnant females. The aim of the study was to determine some hemostatic parameters in different trimesters of normal pregnant females and to compare them with hemostatic parameters of normal non-pregnant females. This prospective pilot cross-sectional study included a total of 120 subjects. Thirty controls were matched with the study population which included 30 subjects of each trimester (1st, 2nd, and 3rd trimesters). The blood hemostatic parameters which were compared between the control and the study population were prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), platelet count (PLT), and fibrinogen (Fb). Results were expressed as means and standard deviations, statistical analysis was performed using Student’s t-test and analysis of variance test, SPSS software version 20. P < 0.05 was considered significant.  Significant change in PT was seen in 3rd trimester as compared to non-pregnant controls although it decreased gradually from 1st to 3rd trimester. aPTT showed significant decrease in all three trimesters when compared with non-pregnant controls. PLT showed significant decrease only in 2nd and 3rd trimesters as compared to controls. Fb level showed significant increase in all trimesters as compared to normal controls. Our study concludes that changes in coagulation system in normal pregnant Indian females are consistent with a continuing low-grade process of intravascular coagulation especially in the 3rd trimester of pregnancy. Therefore, all pregnant females, especially those predisposed for hypercoagulation state should undergo coagulation studies during pregnancy.

2 tables, 26 ref

000116   JOSEPH L R, PILLAI S R (Pharmacology Dep, Pushpagiri Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre, Thiruvalla, Kerala, Email: liyaroslin@gmail.com) : Effectiveness of computer simulation versus chart-based learning in experimental pharmacology among undergraduate medical students. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(4), 367-71.

Animal experiments to learn experimental pharmacology are now replaced with computer-assisted learning exercises and with other possible alternatives. This study aims to compare the effectiveness of computer simulation (CS) with chart-based learning in experimental pharmacology among undergraduate medical students and to assess the perception of students regarding these methods.  The 2nd year MBBS students were divided into two groups of 40 each and each group was trained in experimental pharmacology with the help of either CS or charts with graphical illustrations separately. At the end of each session, a test was conducted to all the students irrespective of the method used and scores were calculated. After six such sessions, feedback from students was collected by a validated questionnaire with 5-point Likert scale. Unpaired t-test was used to compare post-test scores between the groups. The CS group had obtained higher scores compared to chart-based learning group and there was a statistically significant difference between the scores for session 4 (simulation: 6.45 ± 1.25 and CBL: 5.72 ± 1.55) and 6 (simulation:7.12 ± 1.66 and CBL:4.77 ± 1.90). The overall academic performance also was higher for simulation group (38.35 ± 7.75) compared to chart group (34.10 ± 7.79) and the difference was statistically significant. Perception of students also showed that CS helped them to concentrate and to understand the topic well. CS was the preferred method for majority of the students (46 %). CS is more effective compared to chart-based learning for learning experimental pharmacology and is a better alternative for animal experiments.

2 illus, 22 tables, 14 ref

000115   DHIVYA DEVI T, SHANTHI M, EZHIL RAMYA J (Pharmacology Dep, Tirunelveli Medical Coll, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, Email: ezhilramya_j@tvmc.ac.in) : Adherence to antiepileptic drugs for epileptic patients attending neurology outpatient department in tertiary care center – A prospective observational study. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(4), 360-6.

Poor adherence to prescribed regimens can result in serious health consequence. Antiepileptic medication non-adherence leads to disease progression, reduced functional abilities, lower quality of life. Medication non-adherence can have negative consequences not only for the patient but also for the provider, the physician, and even the medical researchers who are working to establish the value of the medication on the target population. This study aims to evaluate adherence of study participants on antiepileptic medication using Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-8) and to identify factors associated with non-adherence and its impact on quality of life. The study was approved by the Institutional Ethics Committee. The prospective study was conducted for a period of 2 months from March 2019 to April 2019 in neurology outpatient department in Tirunelveli Medical College Hospital. Patients of both sexes more than 18 years of age who were diagnosed as epilepsy and on antiepileptic medication therapy for at least 3 months were included as study participants. Data were collected from sample of 110 patients. Adherence was measured using MMAS-8. The observational study recruited 110 participants which included 69 (63 %) males and 41 (37 %) females, 47 (43 %) on monotherapy and 63 (57 %) on combination therapy, 92 (84 %) generalized seizures and 18 (16 %) focal seizures, 69 (63 %) highly adherent, 18 (16 %) medium adherent, and 23 (21 %) poorly adherent to antiepileptic medication. Forgetfulness (46 %) was the most common reason within non-adherent patients and statistical significance was noted. Among the non-adherent patients, recurrence of seizures occurred in 66 % of patients that affected daily activities, 10 % of them experienced injury due to seizures, 17 % of patients discontinued studies, and 7 % discontinued job which impacted their quality of life. The current study shows that 63 % of epileptic patients were highly adherent to treatment. Adverse events were experienced by one-third of the non-adherent patients. Overcoming non-adherence done by appropriate counseling, health education, and explaining consequences of poor adherence to the patients.

4 illus, 2 tables, 42 ref

000114   TAQUI M, SWAMIVELMANICKAM M, MOHATHASIM BILLAH A (Pharmacy Dep, Annamalai Univ, Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu, Email: taquimohammed19@gmail.com) : Adverse drug reactions associated with drugs inducing osteoporosis. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(4), 356-9.

Drug-induced osteoporosis has a widespread and has a profound impact on the prognosis of patients in chronically serious patients. The most common medicines that cause osteoporotic fractures have been glucocorticoids but in women therapy with aromatase inhibitors, fractural osteoporosis is also identified, Type 2 diabetes mellitus treatment for men and women who are treated with antiandrogen therapy in prostate cancer and women treated with elevated amounts of thyroxine following menopausal procedures. Fracture bone loss also occurs with people who are treated with immune systems drugs such as calcineurin inhibitors, proton-pump inhibitors, heparin, antiretrovirals, loop diuretics, serotonin reuptake selective inhibitors, oral anticoagulants, and anticonvulsants.

11 ref

000113   MAHESHWARI R, MANJUNATHA C H, JESUDOSS PRABHAKARAN A C (Accenture Private Ltd, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, Email: mnathakmc99@gmail.com) : Knowledge, attitude, and practice of pharmacovigilance among health-care professionals of a tertiary care hospital in Puducherry – A questionnaire-based study. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(3), 351-5.

An efficient pharmacovigilance (Pv) system of any country improves patient care and safety. Lack of awareness among health-care professionals (HCPs) is cited as one of the main reasons along with underreporting of adverse drug reactions (ADRs). Knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) studies can help understand various issues and improve Pv system. Hence, this study was designed to assess the KAP of the HCPs in a tertiary care hospital and also to explore reasons for underreporting of ADRs. The aim of the study was to evaluate the KAP of the HCPs in a tertiary care hospital and also to explore reasons for underreporting of ADRs. A cross-sectional self-administered questionnaire-based study was conducted among 500 HCPs. A pre-validated questionnaire was used containing a total of 20 questions about KAPs toward Pv along with one question to identify the reasons for underreporting of ADRs. Data obtained were analyzed using descriptive statistics. About 59.6 % knew what is the definition of Pv. About 63 % had knowledge on existence of national Pv program in India. A significant number of participants (>70 %) felt that there should be an ADR monitoring center in every hospital and also that its necessary to report ADRs. Even though, more than >60% participants had undergone training in Pv and had experienced ADR in their professional practice only 39.6 % of participants reported an ADR. Lack of time (43.4 %) was found to be the single most important reason for underreporting. Most of the participants did realize the importance of Pv system but were lacking in practice. Hence, regular awareness program and training in ADR reporting could help in bridging this gap.

1 illus, 7 tables, 9 ref

000112   MAITRA A, AILANI V, SRIVASTAVA N, NAIDU B N A M (Physiology Dep, Mayo Institute of Medical Sciences, Barabanki, Uttar Pradesh, Email: ailanivinita@gmail.com) : Digit ratio and its implications on exercise capacity among non-athlete Indian male subjects. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(3), 347-50.

The index (2D)-to-ring (4D) finger length ratio (2D:4D) commonly known as digit ratio has been the subject of recent interest and is thought to be related to sports ability, endurance running, disease susceptibility, and myocardial infarction at early age. Sexually dimorphic digit ratio is widely accepted as a putative marker for prenatal androgen exposure with men tends to have smaller ratio. The present study was conducted to evaluate any relation between digit ratio and exercise capacity in non-athlete Indian males. The study was conducted in the Department of Physiology of Mayo Institute of Medical Sciences, Barabanki, with 50 clinically normal healthy male volunteers. Finger lengths were measured directly using digital Vernier calipers. Exercise tolerance testing was done as per Bruce protocol with Allengers Gemini A-DX treadmill. Two groups of higher (n = 26) and lower (n = 24) finger length ratio (right hand) were formed using median split. Significant difference observed (P = 0.0012, P < 0.05) for exercise capacity or percentage of predicated metabolic equivalents (METs) achieved having higher percentage by the low finger length ratio group. No significant difference observed for METs achieved for the groups. Correlation study shows a significant moderate negative correlation between digit ratio (right) and exercise capacity. Similar correlation was not significant for the left hand.  These results suggest that a low digit ratio (right hand) is related to better aerobic capacity and exercise capacity in the males although the exact role of prenatal androgen exposure is unclear.

3 tables, 19 ref

000111   SHILPA M, RAGHUNANDANA R, SHILPA M, NARAYANA K (Physiology Dep, Sapthagiri Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre, Bengaluru, Karnataka, Email: shilpam246@gmail.com) : Expectation of mentees toward mentoring in medical education – An observational study. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(3), 341-6.

Mentoring the students helps to remold ones both personal and professional life. A good mentor can always bring an astonishing development in the life of a mentee. Although the mentoring in medical school dates back to the 1970s, its application evolved in late 1990s. The main goal of mentoring medical students is to provide a proper academic guidance, personal support and to achieve professional development of the students. To achieve these, an active participation of both the mentor and mentee is very much essential. Our study aimed to know the expectations of mentees toward mentoring program and also the effectiveness of the program that they had undergone for one academic year during their first MBBS.  The study was conducted in Sapthagiri Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre (SIMSRC), Bengaluru, for a period of 1 month. The study group comprises 150 students studying in the 1st year MBBS at SIMSRC, Bengaluru. A panel discussion was held for 2 h to discuss the benefits of mentoring followed by which a self-prepared semi-structured questionnaire consisting of both open- and closed-ended shared to the volunteer subjects through online Google Forms. The data were extracted through Microsoft Excel and data analysis was carried through Microsoft Excel.  In our study, around 90 % of the students had attended all the mentoring sessions among them 94 % of the students opine mentoring is required, 97 % of the students agrees their mentors are approachable, 88 % of the students prefer 1:10 mentor-mentee ratio, and the remaining 12 % of them opine 1:20 mentormentee ratio would suffice. About 58 % of the students feel mentors to be chosen by them and 42 % feels the mentors to be randomly allotted to them. About 82 % of them have improved in their academics after the mentor-mentee meeting whereas 18 % did not show any changes. Most of the students prefer direct contact with the mentors and one-to-one mentoring, preferred timely meeting is more effective than frequent meeting preferably after each internals and mentoring helps in academic as well as overall development of mentees and most of mentees prefer to choose their mentor of choice for effective mentorship.

2 tables, 17 ref

000110   KHADIJAH S, MARJONI M R (Midwifery Dep, Health Polytechnic of the Ministry of Health, West Sumatera, Indonesia, Email: mhdriza.marjoni@gmail.com) : Comparison of efficacy of the deep back massage method with and without Al-Fatihah for pain management in primigravida during active first stage of labor. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(3), 337-40.

Labor pain is a common physiological condition experienced by women during childbirth. Labor pain can have a negative effect on the process of labor if not treated properly. One of the methods of reducing labor pain is deep back massage and distraction. The recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah is believed to reduce pain during childbirth. The objective of research was to determine the difference in the effectiveness of the deep back massage method with Al-Fatihah and without Al-Fatihah in reducing pain intensity in primigravidas during active first stage of labor at BPM Bunda, Bukittinggi, in 2016. This study used a quasi-experimental design. The population of this research was primigravidas during the active stage of labor. A sample of 20 women was taken using purposive sampling technique. Ten respondents were given deep back massage method without Al-Fatihah recitation and the other 10 with Al-Fatihah recitation. The data were collected through interviews and observations, and analyzed using the paired t-test. The results of the analysis showed that there was a significant relationship between the deep back massage method without Al-Fatihah recitation and a reduction in labor pain, with P = 0.001 and a mean difference between before and after experiments. Analysis of the deep back massage method with Al-Fatihah recitation showed a reduction in labor pain with P = 0.000 and a mean difference between before and after experiments. Deep back massage method with Al-Fatihah recitation is more effective in reducing pain intensity in pregnant women during active first stage of labor.

1 illus, 5 tables, 19 ref

000109   DESAI C B, GOKHALE P A, GANDHI P H, MEHTA H B, SHAH C J (Physiology Dep, GMERS Medical Coll, Junagadh, Gujarat, Email: desaichetankumar07@gmail.com) : Effect of sensory nerve conduction studies of median and ulnar nerve: Height and body mass index. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(3), 331-6.

Nerve conduction studies (NCSs) have been contributed to a better understanding of normal peripheral nerve structure and function and understanding of various peripheral neuropathies. Height and body mass index (BMI) are influencing activity on nerve conduction velocities (NCVs). Median and ulnar nerves in upper limb were tested commonly for sensory NCSs (SNCSs). Multiple variables such as age; gender; BMI; and height influence NCS parameters. Therefore, this present study was assessing effect of height and BMI on SNCS of median and ulnar nerves among healthy subjects.  This study aims to study and correlate SNCS of median and ulnar nerve with height and BMI. After taking permission from Human Ethics Committee, Government Medical College, Bhavnagar, 91 normal healthy subjects of both genders, age 15–65 years, were participated for SNCS of median and ulnar nerve of both hands using RMS Aleron electromyography/NCV EPII Mark 401, 4-Channels instrument. SNCSs of different parameters were taken out and analyzed for statistical significance. P value is not statistically significant in all groups divided on the basis of height except I versus III and II versus III height group in the left ulnar nerve. P value is not statistically significant in all groups divided on the basis of BMI group. Positive correlation is seen in height with latency and negative correlation is seen in height with sensory NCV (SNCV) and amplitude which was similar to other study 3, 6, 13 and no uniform correlation in height with duration. A positive correlation is seen in BMI with SNCV and negative correlation is seen in BMI with duration. There is no uniform correlation in BMI with latency and amplitude. SNCV is slowing as height and BMI increases.

8 tables, 23 ref

000108   SHARMA M L, LAL M, KAUR J, KAUR H, VERMA R (Community Medicine Dep, Government Medical Coll, Amritsar, Punjab, Email: docpreetd@gmail.com) : Involvement of married women less than 45 years of age in decisionmaking regarding household and reproductive activities. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(3), 326-30.

Women’s involvement in decision-making in household matters and reproductive activities like contraception has a significant impact on their health and life. Women contribute many duties and responsibilities of the family but are not equally empowered in decision-making due to patriarchal structures. This study aims to study the involvement of married women in decision-making regarding household and reproductive activities. This is a cross-sectional type of study conducted from January 2019 to December 2019 in the rural field practice area of Government Medical College, Amritsar. A list of all households with women of reproductive age (15–44 years) in the village was prepared by numbering them. A sample of 145 women was drawn by systematic randomization according to proportion in Census 2011. One hundred and thirty married women were interviewed for household/reproductive activities after taking an informed written consent. Data were collected on a semi-structured, predesigned questionnaire by interviewing the respondents. About 32.1 % of women were illiterate. About 21.4 % of women were working. About 79.2 % of women participated in decision-making concerning important household matters. In majority of women (76.5 %), decision of continuing/aborting an unplanned pregnancy was taken jointly. Women’s educational status is significantly related to the number of children they have. The present study concludes that women are less involved in household and even in activities for their personal life, hence need empowerment.

2 illus, 6 tables, 16 ref

000107   KASIREDDY G R, SHARAN KUMAR K B, NADITHE L R, CHINNAM P (Pharmacology Dep, Chalmeda Anandrao Institute of Medical Sciences, Karimnagar, Telangana, Email: sharanu.bhavikatti@gmail.com) : Experimental evaluation of hypoglycemic effect of bark extract of Ficus benghalensis in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(3), 320-5.

Diabetes is chronic condition that is a major risk factor for diseases of all organ systems. We currently have many allopathic drugs to treat the condition, however, we need to explore the effects of the herbal drugs in treating the disease. Our study aims to evaluate the antidiabetic effect of Ficus benghalensis bark ethanolic extraction in diabetic male albino rat species. The albino rats were categorized into six groups and each group consists of six rats. All groups were induced diabetes by streptozotocin except Group-I. Group-I (normal control) and Group-II (diabetic control) were not given any drug. Group-III (standard group) was received glibenclamide 0.5 mg/kg body weight by oral route daily for 15 days. Group-IV rats (test Group-1) were given 150 mg/kg, Group-V rats (test Group-2) were given 300 mg/kg, and Group-VI (test Group-3) rats were given 500 mg/kg body weight of F. benghalensis bark extract by oral route daily for 15 days. Glucose levels in blood were evaluated on the 0th, 5th, 10th, and 15th days. The test groups were treated with increasing dose of F. benghalensis bark extract which had significant dose-dependent anti-hyperglycemic activity. The test Group 3 showed antidiabetic activity as effective as glibenclamide with the dose of 500 mg/kg. The study on F. benghalensis bark extract concluded that it has dose-dependent anti-hyperglycemic effect in diabetic rats as efficacious as standard drug.

2 illus, 1 table, 20 ref

000106   DIWAN J, PATEL K, GOSWAMI D, PATEL V (Gujarat Univ, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, Email: drkrutipatel110@gmail.com) : Sensory nerve conduction velocity study in diabetic patients. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(3), 315-9.

The most common complication of diabetes mellitus is neuropathy which may occur in proximal and distal nerve fibers. Nerve conduction velocity (NCV) in the distal segment of the peripheral nerves is an indicator of neuronal damage. This research was performed to measure the velocity of nerve conduction in diabetic patients and to compare them to non-diabetic patients. The sensory portion of the median and ulnar nerve conduction analysis was conducted on 25 diabetic patients (Group I) and 25 non diabetics (Group II). We observed, in diabetic patients, the sensory conduction velocity in the median and ulnar nerve has decreased relative to non-diabetic patients, but the difference is insignificant. NCV is an easy, accurate, and responsive method for diabetes patients to measure and describe nerve conduction abnormalities.

3 tables, 22 ref

000105   THACKER K B, CHAUDHARI V, PATEL S, DIKSHIT R K (Pharmacology Dep, GCS Medical Coll, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, Email: drvip79@yahoo.co.in) : A drug utilization study in pregnancy at a tertiary care teaching hospital. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(3), 308-14.

Pregnancy is a state of altered physiological condition where drug treatment poses concern as it can put the fetus at a potential risk. It is associated with pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic alterations. Transportation across the placenta can cause teratogenic effects. Thus, the risk/benefit ratio of drug therapy should be carefully evaluated in pregnancy. Aim and Objective: The aim of the study was to evaluate the pattern of drug use in pregnancy. A prospective cross-sectional study was carried out at the ante-natal clinic of a tertiary care teaching hospital in Ahmedabad. Prescriptions of 500 pregnant women were screened. The necessary demographic details, educational status, antenatal history, use of any medicines, or home remedies were noted. The data collected were analyzed for various use patterns on a MS-Excel sheet. Majority of the prescriptions were issued to the women in 21–35 years (89.4 %) age group and 56.8 % were multigravida. Majority of women (61 %) were in 3rd trimester followed by the 2nd trimester (28.8 %). Out of 500 women, only 73 (14.6 %) had complaints such as vomiting, hyperacidity, cold, cough, burning micturition, vaginal itching, and discharge. Total number of drugs used was 1299 of which 62.58 % were used in 3rd trimester, 29.79 % in 2nd trimester, and 7.62 % in the 1st trimester. The average number of drugs per prescription was 2.59. Out of all drugs used, 1108 (85 %) were given as fixed dose combinations. Injectables were 18 in number (1.5%). Common drugs used were vitamins and supplements (81.13 %), anti-emetics (3.84 %), antacids (3.54 %), thyroid analogues (2.3 %), and anti-hypertensives (1.46 %). A home remedy was used by 11.8% and an ayurvedic medication was used by 1.4 % women. According to US-Food and Drug Administration pregnancy risk categories, 15 % drugs were in category A, 47 % in category B, 38 % in category C, 0.84 % in category D, and none in category X. Self-medication was seen in 20 (4%) women and was common among literate women.  The present study shows that the drugs are consumed during pregnancy usually for a necessary indication. Vitamins and other supplements are the most commonly prescribed medication while other drugs are used only when needed. No category X drugs were prescribed or taken as self-medication.

1 illus, 7 tables, 15 ref

000104   REMESH A, AISWARYA R (Pharmacology Dep, Sree Uthradom Thirunal Academy of Medical Sciences, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, Email: dr.ambiliremesh@gmail.com) : Evaluation of effectiveness of structured teaching-learning module on pharmacovigilance and rational drug therapy: An intervention. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(3), 304-7.

Pharmacovigilance (PV)/drug safety and rational prescribing are relevant to both practitioners and policy-makers but the competency of professionals is still insufficient. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of an interactive structured teaching, learning module on PV and rational prescription in enhancing the competency of medical undergraduates. The secondary objective was to assess the perceptions of students and faculty about the module. After ethical approval, sixty-four 2nd year M.B.B.S students in a tertiary care teaching hospital participated in an intervention study using a structured teaching-learning module. This interactive module was made according to the WHO good prescription guidelines. Students were enrolled by non-probability convenience sampling. After orientation about the study, informed consent was taken; and the students were then divided into groups. The control group was taught in conventional way and the interventional group with the module. Outcome of both groups was assessed by posttests conducted by validated questionnaire. The faculty and students feedback were collected using pre-validated questionnaire based on Likert scale. The mean scores and level of significance were assessed using independent sample t-test and P < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. The findings clearly indicate that teaching module was very effective. There was retention of the topic by the students evident from the scores in assessments. Faculty feedback showed increased satisfaction in teaching and increased understanding among students.  The undergraduate medical student’s, knowledge of what drugs they have to prescribe to a patient does not necessarily translate to a rational prescription unless we give proper training to them. This module provides learners an opportunity to develop and practice skills that directly improve self-directed learning.

2 illus, 1 table, 23 ref

000103   CHINAGUDI S (Physiology Dep, S. N. Medical Coll, Bagalkot, Karnataka, Email: csurekha.rani@rediffmail.com) : Platelet count in normal pregnancy, preeclampsia, and eclampsia – A retrospective analysis. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(3), 301-3.

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy are the most common medical problems affecting pregnancy. Off late, the incidence of the disease has increased and laboratory investigations become part of management. Core pathophysiology in hypertensive disorders of pregnancy is endothelial damage, which triggers platelet consumption.  This was to study platelet count in normal pregnancy, preeclampsia, and eclampsia groups. The study was done in S N Medical College, Bagalkot, Karnataka. Retrospective analysis of data was done. Platelet count in lakhs/ mm3 in normal pregnancy (n = 30), preeclampsia (n = 30), and eclampsia (n = 20) groups was noted. Normal pregnancy group was matched with respect to age and parity with the other two groups. Data were tabulated and analysis was done by the analysis of variance and post-hoc tests. P < 0.05 was taken as statistically significant. Mean platelet count in normal pregnancy, preeclampsia, and eclampsia was 259066.7 ± 29752.93, 210533 ± 12721.78, and 157200 ± 36464.26, respectively. Platelet count was found to be significantly less in preeclampsia and eclampsia groups when compared to normal pregnancy (F = 86.96 and P = 0.0001). There was a significant reduction in platelet count in the preeclampsia group when compared to normal pregnancy and in the eclampsia group when compared to the preeclampsia group. Platelet count being easily performable test and economical to the patient can be used as an indicator of preeclampsia and eclampsia. Reduction in platelet count is proportionate to the severity of disease.

1 illus, 2 tables, 9 ref

000102   VINAY KIRAN B S, RANGANATH M D, NAGARAJ M S (Physiology Dep, BGS Global Institute of Medical Sciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka, Email: drvinaykiranbs@gmail.com) : Audiometric evaluation of type 2 diabetes mellitus patients according to their metabolic control. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(3), 292-300.

Diabetes is a multisystem disorder and the basic pathophysiology behind most complications of diabetes is microangiopathy leading to neuropathy.Cochlear microangiopathy may cause hearing impairment in diabetes patients. Literature in this field in the Indian population is sparse, making this study extremely relevant in the Indian context. The aim of the study was to compare the pure tone hearing thresholds between diabetics and nondiabetics and to describe the association between hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c), duration of diabetes, and pure tone hearing thresholds. The study subjects were evaluated for their glycemic status and were categorized into three groups; Group 1: Non-diabetics, Group 2: Diabetics with good glycemic control (HbA1c 7 %). All three groups underwent pure tone audiometric evaluation and the data were statistically evaluated. The air and bone conduction thresholds of diabetic patients were higher in all the frequencies between 250 Hz and 8000 Hz for both ears. The air-bone gap was <10 dB suggesting a sensorineural hearing loss in diabetic patients. HbA1c levels and duration of diabetes showed significant association with pure-tone hearing thresholds in diabetics. Diabetic patients showed significantly increased auditory thresholds in all the frequencies and a sensorineural type of hearing loss on pure tone audiometric evaluation. Glycemic control and duration of diabetes mellitus were found to have a significant association with pure-tone hearing thresholds at all frequencies in diabetic patients.

12 illus, 6 tables, 30 ref

000101   REMESH A, AISWARYA R (Pharmacology Dep, Sree Uthradom Thirunal Academy of Medical Sciences, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, Email: dr.ambiliremesh@gmail.com) : Evaluation of effectiveness of structured teaching-learning module on pharmacovigilance and rational drug therapy: An intervention. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(3), 304-7.

Pharmacovigilance (PV)/drug safety and rational prescribing are relevant to both practitioners and policy-makers but the competency of professionals is still insufficient. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of an interactive structured teaching, learning module on PV and rational prescription in enhancing the competency of medical undergraduates. The secondary objective was to assess the perceptions of students and faculty about the module. After ethical approval, sixty-four 2nd year M.B.B.S students in a tertiary care teaching hospital participated in an intervention study using a structured teaching-learning module. This interactive module was made according to the WHO good prescription guidelines. Students were enrolled by non-probability convenience sampling. After orientation about the study, informed consent was taken; and the students were then divided into groups. The control group was taught in conventional way and the interventional group with the module. Outcome of both groups was assessed by posttests conducted by validated questionnaire. The faculty and students feedback were collected using pre-validated questionnaire based on Likert scale. The mean scores and level of significance were assessed using independent sample t-test and P < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. The findings clearly indicate that teaching module was very effective. There was retention of the topic by the students evident from the scores in assessments. Faculty feedback showed increased satisfaction in teaching and increased understanding among students.  The undergraduate medical student’s, knowledge of what drugs they have to prescribe to a patient does not necessarily translate to a rational prescription unless we give proper training to them. This module provides learners an opportunity to develop and practice skills that directly improve self-directed learning.

2 illus, 1 table, 23 ref

000100   CHINAGUDI S (Physiology Dep, S. N. Medical Coll, Bagalkot, Karnataka, Email: csurekha.rani@rediffmail.com) : Platelet count in normal pregnancy, preeclampsia, and eclampsia – A retrospective analysis. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(3), 301-3.

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy are the most common medical problems affecting pregnancy. Off late, the incidence of the disease has increased and laboratory investigations become part of management. Core pathophysiology in hypertensive disorders of pregnancy is endothelial damage, which triggers platelet consumption. This was to study platelet count in normal pregnancy, preeclampsia, and eclampsia groups. The study was done in S N Medical College, Bagalkot, Karnataka. Retrospective analysis of data was done. Platelet count in lakhs/ mm3 in normal pregnancy (n = 30), preeclampsia (n = 30), and eclampsia (n = 20) groups was noted. Normal pregnancy group was matched with respect to age and parity with the other two groups. Data were tabulated and analysis was done by the analysis of variance and post-hoc tests. P < 0.05 was taken as statistically significant. Mean platelet count in normal pregnancy, preeclampsia, and eclampsia was 259066.7 ± 29752.93, 210533 ± 12721.78, and 157200 ± 36464.26, respectively. Platelet count was found to be significantly less in preeclampsia and eclampsia groups when compared to normal pregnancy (F = 86.96 and P = 0.0001). There was a significant reduction in platelet count in the preeclampsia group when compared to normal pregnancy and in the eclampsia group when compared to the preeclampsia group.  Platelet count being easily performable test and economical to the patient can be used as an indicator of preeclampsia and eclampsia. Reduction in platelet count is proportionate to the severity of disease.

1 illus, 2 tables, 9 ref

000099   VINAY KIRAN B S, RANGANATH M D, NAGARAJ M S (Physiology Dep, BGS Global Institute of Medical Sciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka, Email: drvinaykiranbs@gmail.com) : Audiometric evaluation of type 2 diabetes mellitus patients according to their metabolic control. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(3), 292-300.

Diabetes is a multisystem disorder and the basic pathophysiology behind most complications of diabetes is microangiopathy leading to neuropathy.Cochlear microangiopathy may cause hearing impairment in diabetes patients. Literature in this field in the Indian population is sparse, making this study extremely relevant in the Indian context.  The aim of the study was to compare the pure tone hearing thresholds between diabetics and nondiabetics and to describe the association between hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c), duration of diabetes, and pure tone hearing thresholds.  The study subjects were evaluated for their glycemic status and were categorized into three groups; Group 1: Non-diabetics, Group 2: Diabetics with good glycemic control (HbA1c 7 %). All three groups underwent pure tone audiometric evaluation and the data were statistically evaluated. The air and bone conduction thresholds of diabetic patients were higher in all the frequencies between 250 Hz and 8000 Hz for both ears. The air-bone gap was <10 dB suggesting a sensorineural hearing loss in diabetic patients. HbA1c levels and duration of diabetes showed significant association with pure-tone hearing thresholds in diabetics.  Diabetic patients showed significantly increased auditory thresholds in all the frequencies and a sensorineural type of hearing loss on pure tone audiometric evaluation. Glycemic control and duration of diabetes mellitus were found to have a significant association with pure-tone hearing thresholds at all frequencies in diabetic patients.

12 illus, 6 tables, 30 ref

000098   AHMED R, ZAMAN S U, AHMED M W (Pharmacology Dep, Employees State Insurance Corporation Medical Coll, Kalaburagi, Karnataka, Email: samsparkin@gmail.com) : Evaluation of the analgesic activity of an aqueous extract of the seeds of Nigella sativa Linn in albino rats. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(3), 288-91.

Many herbs and plant products have been claimed to have a significant analgesic action. However, not much work has been reported on the pharmacological evaluation of such plant-based products for the analgesic effects claimed in traditional medicine. The study aimed to assess the analgesic potential of the aqueous extract of Nigella sativa Linn (NSL) in albino rats by the hot plate and tail-flick method and to compare it with the standard drug indomethacin. Four groups of randomly divided albino rats were made. Group 1 was given oral normal saline (0.1 mg/kg) (control group). Group 2 was given indomethacin 25 mg/kg orally (standard group). Groups 3 and 4 (test groups) were administered NSL 300 mg/kg body weight (BW) and 600 mg/kg BW orally, respectively. The hot plate and tail-flick method were used to screen for analgesic potential. Our study revealed a uniform increase in reaction time in both test groups which received NSL. Maximum analgesic activity was noted at 120 min. NSL has good analgesic activity in comparison with the control. However, indomethacin has significantly better activity than NSL at both doses. NSL at 600 mg/kg BW has analgesic activity comparable to indomethacin only at 20 min. NSL has analgesic potential, but comparatively, indomethacin is a more potent analgesic drug.

2 tables, 15 ref

000097   SANDEEP B, SRIDHAR PRASAD Y P, SHASHIKUMARA, PRATHIMA C, VANI J (Pharmacology Dep, Chamarajanagar Institute of Medical sciences, Chamarajanagar, Karnataka, Email: drsridharprasad@gmail.com) : The sessing scale for assessment of chronic grade II diabetic foot ulcer healing. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(3), 283-7.

Lysine is a basic amino acid which is not integrated inside the body. It is integrated in higher plants through biochemical pathways. Numerous clinical studies have revealed that amino acids assume a significant part in rushing the way toward wound recuperating by improving the nearby blood supply as growth factors. This investigation intended to evaluate the wound healing potential, efficacy, and tolerability of lysine cream (15 %) in diabetic foot ulcer assessed by assessing scale. A randomized, open-label, and interventional study was directed on 40 subjects (participants) with diabetic ulcers. Participants were grouped into two groups, control and test. The control group (n = 20) was treated with standard treatment and the test group was treated with standard treatment alongside lysine cream (15 %) twice every day. Wound healing in the participants was assessed by the assessing scales. A total of 40 participants were allotted into two groups. The results expressed as mean ± standard deviation values imply the size and depth of the foot ulcer from the 1st week to the 8th week. Both the groups showed a significant increase the ulcer healing and decrease the pressure of foot ulcer of over a period of 8 weeks. The assessment of the 1st week showed no significant ulcer healing and its pressure. The overall outcome indicated that the lysine-treated group extensively reduced each of the parameters favoring wound healing than the standard therapy alone (control group). Furthermore, there was no significant difference in the blood glucose levels in both study groups. Treatment with additional lysine cream considerably improved wound recovery in diabetic foot ulcer patients when compared to the standard therapy alone.

6 tables, 18 ref

000096   NALINI R, PRABHAKAR T G, EZHILRAMYA J (Pharmacology Dep, Tirunelveli Medical Coll, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, Email: nalluprabha@gmail.com) : Efficacy of intra-articular injection of methylprednisolone in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee in southern district of India. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(3), 279-82.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a most common form of arthritis wherein chronic progressive degenerative changes occur in the articular cartilage of the joint which leads to restriction of joint function and poor life quality and it is globally prevalent causing pain and functional disability. Intra-articular corticosteroids are usually administered to candidates who do not show symptomatic relief to conservative line of management. The objective of the study is to assess the efficacy of intra-articular injection of methylprednisolone acetate in patients with OA of the knee. Materials and Methods: Patients of all age and gender diagnosed with primary OA of knee with visual analog scale (VAS) pain score seven and more than seven with X-ray evidence of osteoarthropathy of knee with Kellgren Lawrence classification one-three, patients not satisfied with anti-inflammatory drugs and physiotherapy were included in the study. Study participants were asked for self-assessment of pain and mark on the VAS and interpretation of scoring was statistically analyzed. Thirty study participants were enrolled for the study among them, the male and female were 56.67 % and 43.33 %, respectively. The mean age of the study participants was 59.2 ± 11.79 years. The mean VAS pain score before intra-articular methylprednisolone acetate was 9.37 ± 0.81 and there was gradual decrease in pain score after intra-articular injection over time in 2, 4, 8, 12, and 24 weeks.  Intra-articular methylprednisolone acetate had revealed good efficacy in patients with OA knee with chronic pain without adverse effects.

5 tables, 16 ref

000095   JOSE S, RAZEENA K C, SREELATHA M (Physiology Dep, Government Medical Coll, Kozhikode, Kerala, Email: sibynunnu5282@gmail.com) : Oxidative stress in patients with diabetes mellitus type 2. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol. 2021, 11(3), 274-8.

Diabetes mellitus (DM) refers to a group of common metabolic disorders that share the phenotype of hyperglycemia. Depending on the etiology of the DM, factors contributing to hyperglycemia include reduced insulin secretion, decreased glucose utilization, and increased glucose production. India is one of the epicenters of the global DM pandemic. Oxidative stress which is classically defined as an event resulting from the magnitude of imbalance between oxidant and antioxidant substances, generated in a setting of oxidation-reduction reactions, is hypothesized to play an important role in the development of DM. This study aims to assess lipid peroxidation by estimating serum malondialdehyde (MDA) and antioxidant status by assaying paraoxonase-1 (PON-1) in Type 2 diabetes patients and healthy controls and also to study the correlation between MDA and PON-1 levels in patients with Type 2 diabetes.  A cross-sectional comparative study was conducted in 152 participants, which were divided into two groups as patients with type 2 diabetes (n = 76) and control (n = 76) non-diabetic, healthy, age- and sex-matched individuals. The study was conducted in Government Medical College, Kozhikode, after the approval of the Institutional Ethical Committee. All the subjects who satisfied the inclusion and exclusion criteria and who gave informed consent were included in a consecutive manner till sample size is achieved. Serum MDA and PON-1 were estimated using spectrophotometry. The data were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 18. Oxidative stress was increased in type 2 diabetic patients as evidenced by significantly elevated MDA and reduced PON-1 than the normal controls. Oxidative stress is an important pathophysiological process for the development of type 2 diabetes. This study reveals the importance of screening all diabetes patients for oxidative stress. Dietary management and antioxidant supplementation would help them to prevent development of complications following diabetes, which, in turn, improve their quality of life.

2 illus, 2 tables, 18 ref

000094   GUPTA S, GUPTA V, GUPTA S, TAYAL B B (Physiology Dep, MSY Medical Coll and Hospital, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, Email: guptavarad@yahoo.com) : Hemodynamic changes in uteroplacental vasculature in pregnancy-induced hypertension and its effect on pregnancy outcome. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(3), 269-73.

Among the various complications of pregnancy, pregnancy-induced hypertension is found to be the most common which may affect maternal and fetal outcome. The most common being retarded growth of fetus in utero. This study aims to assess hemodynamic variations in uteroplacental circulation in pregnancy-induced hypertension and its effect on fetal outcome. Subjects were divided into two groups as Group A of 50 subjects of normal pregnancy (controls) and Group B of 50 subjects of pregnancy-induced hypertension (cases) all in the age group of 25–34 years and having 28–32 weeks of gestation. Blood pressure was recorded and fetal biometry was done ultrasonologically to find average gestational age and effective fetal weight. Pulsatility index, resistive index, and systolic-diastolic ratio in bilateral uterine, umbilical, and middle cerebral arteries were recorded using color Doppler. Mean and standard deviation was calculated for all values of Doppler indices in both groups and Student’s t-test (unpaired) was used. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. All three taken Doppler indices showed a decreasing trend in both groups but decrease was less in pregnancy-induced hypertensives as compared to that in normal pregnancy for same gestational age suggesting higher resistance to blood flow in fetoplacental circulation in gestational hypertension. Small for gestational age fetuses were seen in 10 out of 50 cases. Normal for gestational age fetuses were seen in controls. Pregnancy-induced hypertension causes hemodynamic variations in uteroplacental vasculature which may be responsible for causing impaired fetal growth in some cases.

3 tables, 13 ref

000093   DESAI S A, DHODI D K, SINHA S R (Pharmacology Dep, HBT Medical Coll, Mumbai, Maharashtra, Email: shash0908@gmail.com) : Causality assessment of adverse drug reactions reported with antitubercular drugs in a tertiary care hospital – An observational study. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(3), 263-8.

Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are regarded as one of the major causes of non-adherence to anti-tuberculosis (TB) treatment. Identify ADRs and Establish a causal relationship between Suspected drug and Adverse Event is very important step from Pharmacovigilance point of view.  This study aims to monitor the adverse effects of the drugs in the patients on treatment for TB and do the causality assessment. A prospective, single-centric, observational, and open-labeled study was carried out in a tertiary care hospital of Mumbai. Patients presenting with ADRs were monitored, analyzed and causality assessment was carried out using World Health Organization-Uppsala Monitoring Centre (WHO-UMC) and Naranjo’s assessment scale. A total of 459 patients presenting with ADRs were enrolled in the study, their mean age was 34.60±14.21 years while male patients outnumbered female patients. About 363 patients presented with at least any one type of ADR followed by 96 patients presented with combination of any two ADRs, so study population (n = 459) presented with total 555 ADRs. Gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary system were the most affected sites of body. Majority of ADRs showed possible relation to the suspected drug during causality assessment using both the WHO-UMC and Naranjo’s scale. Majority of ADRs were mild to moderate in nature with no occurrence of severe ADR. It is important to establish information management systems to detect and report adverse drug events in chronic infective respiratory disease like TB. Focus should be given on assessment and prevention of medication errors resulting in ADRs.

3 tables, 11 ref

000092   TEKULAPALLY K, PADMAVATHI V (Pharmacology Dep, Malla Reddy Medical Coll for Women, Hyderabad, Telangana, Email: dr_t_kranti@yahoo.com) : Knowledge and attitude of medical students toward animal research and welfare – A cross-sectional study. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(3), 257-62.

The use of animals in research and education evokes an emotional response in students that may impact their learning outcomes. Having knowledge about animal welfare regulations may assure them that animals are well-taken care off and that may influence their attitude. The present study was, therefore, initiated to assess the knowledge and attitude of medical students toward animal research and welfare.  A cross-sectional study was carried out among 210 second and final MBBS students of Malla Reddy Medical College for Women, Suraram, Hyderabad. Hard copies of a pre-validated questionnaire used in previous studies consisting of 19 questions were administered to the students after obtaining informed consent. The primary outcomes – knowledge and attitude were measured in percentages and compared using SPSS version 20.  Only 17 % of the students felt that animal research cannot be justified and should be stopped. The majority of the students (43 %) had poor knowledge about animal welfare regulations.  There is a need to improve the knowledge of students about the animal welfare regulations followed in India.

4 illus, 3 tables, 14 ref

000091   JAIN N, CHOUDHARY K, KHAN I, PARMAR J, AGARWAL S (Physiology Dep, Banas Medical Coll and Research Institute, Palanpur, Gujarat, Email: dr.jas4u@gmail.com) : Assessment of cardiac sympathovagal activity with change in body weight in young adult males. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(3), 253-6.

Today in the modern era, sedentary lifestyle is continuously escalating the problem of increasing weight in the young population. It is an alarming issue because increase in weight causes many health hazards mainly autonomic imbalance and altered cardiovascular functions. These cardiovascular changes can be assessed by calculating heart rate variability (HRV), which is an economical tool and non-invasive method.  The present study was carried out to assess the effect of increase weight on HRV and to find out the association between body mass index (BMI) and HRV parameters. Sixty male subjects, age ranges from 17 to 35 years, were included. The subjects were categorized into three groups as normal, obese, and overweight based on their BMI. The electrocardiogram was recorded and frequency domain parameters of HRV were obtained from it. Parameters were compared between all the three groups using ANOVA test and post hoc test. Frequency domain variable high-frequency (HF) (nu) which mainly depicts parasympathetic influences was significantly lower in overweight and obese group as compared to normal weight group, whereas low frequency (LF) (nu) and LF/HF ratio marker of sympathovagal imbalance were significantly higher in overweight and obese group. The sympathovagal balance is sloped toward sympathetic predominance which is a predisposed risk for the cardiovascular disorders and cardiac morbidity. Hence, a timely intervention in lifestyle and obesity regime can prove to be a useful tool for improving the quality and longevity of life.

2 tables, 20 ref

000090   ARATHY R, PILLAI S, SREEDEVI N S, ARAVINDAKSHAN R, RAJMOHAN G, CHANDY S J (Pharmacology Dep, Sree Gokulam Medical Coll and Research Foundation, Venjaramoodu, Kerala, Email: drsantosh74@gmail.com) : Effectiveness and safety of ormeloxifene and medroxyprogesterone acetate in dysfunctional uterine bleeding – A prospective interventional quasi-randomized interval clinical study. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(3), 246-52.

Progestogens and selective estrogen receptor modulators are used in treating dysfunctional uterine bleeding (DUB). There is a lack of consensus regarding the best agent. Aim and Objective: To compare the effectiveness and safety of ormeloxifene and medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) in DUB.  A comparative evaluation of gynecology outpatients with DUB at a tertiary care teaching hospital by a prospective interventional quasi-random design. Patients having DUB were allocated into two groups based on treatment with ormeloxifene (n = 20) and MPA (n = 20). Each patient was followed up for 3 months and evaluated for: (a) Menstrual blood loss assessed using pictorial blood loss assessment chart (PBAC) score and presence of clots, (b) endometrial thickness, (c) hemoglobin (Hb) level, (d) assessment of symptoms, and (e) adverse effects. Mann–Whitney U test and Chi-square test were used to compare both groups. There was a significant reduction in PBAC score and passage of clots compared to baseline in both groups. An increase in Hb was statistically significant in MPA group. Decrease in PBAC score, increase in Hb, and decrease in endometrial thickness after treatment was not significant between groups. In ormeloxifene group, symptoms significantly improved after 1 month and 75% patients had amenorrhea. Ormeloxifene, with less frequent administration and higher tolerability, can be used as an effective alternative to MPA for controlling menstrual blood loss.

3 illus, 3 tables, 15 ref

000089   SURAJ B, SOMASHEKARA S C, SANDEEP B, DESAI V, HOOLI TANUJA V, SRIKANTH (Pharmacology Dep, ESIC Medical Coll and Hospital, Gulbarga, Karnataka, Email: sandeeppanchal72@gmail.com) : A prospective study on antibiotic usage and cost pattern in an intensive care unit of a tertiary care hospital. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(3), 238-41.

Antibiotic resistance is on rise and has become a worldwide problem, especially in intensive care unit (ICU) patients because of higher utilization and inappropriate usage of antibiotics. Consumption of drugs can be measured by defined daily dose (DDD)/100 bed-days as recommended by the WHO. Data of antibiotic utilization can be used for developing hospital antibiotic policy. The current study was planned to assess the pattern of antibiotics usage from admission to discharge from the ICU and to assess the cost of antibiotic therapy. This study was observational, prospective in nature, conducted in an ICU of a tertiary care hospital from June 2019 to August 2019. The demographic data, clinical variables, the utilization of different antibiotics class (WHO-ATC classification, WHO/DDD), as well as for individual drugs and their cost incurred were recorded. Of 101 patients, 68 patients (67.33 %) received more than 1 antibiotic. Metronidazole was the most common antibiotic utilized at admission attributing to 29.70 % and during entire ICU stay accounting to 68.32 %. Metronidazole followed by ceftriaxone and piperacillin/ tazobactam were the maximally utilized antibiotics with 35.32, 31.22, and 23.82, DDD/100 bed-days, respectively. An average cost incurred to antibiotic therapy per patient was 1403 Indian rupees (INR).  Metronidazole followed by ceftriaxone was the most commonly prescribed antibiotics during ICU stay. A higher percentage of total cost was attributed by meropenem. Regular prescription audit and modification of antibiotic policy are required to curtail the inapt use of antibiotics and economic burden not only on patient but also on hospital pharmacy.

3 tables, 41 ref

000089   SURAJ B, SOMASHEKARA S C, SANDEEP B, DESAI V, HOOLI TANUJA V, SRIKANTH (Pharmacology Dep, ESIC Medical Coll and Hospital, Gulbarga, Karnataka, Email: sandeeppanchal72@gmail.com) : A prospective study on antibiotic usage and cost pattern in an intensive care unit of a tertiary care hospital. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(3), 238-41.

Antibiotic resistance is on rise and has become a worldwide problem, especially in intensive care unit (ICU) patients because of higher utilization and inappropriate usage of antibiotics. Consumption of drugs can be measured by defined daily dose (DDD)/100 bed-days as recommended by the WHO. Data of antibiotic utilization can be used for developing hospital antibiotic policy. The current study was planned to assess the pattern of antibiotics usage from admission to discharge from the ICU and to assess the cost of antibiotic therapy. This study was observational, prospective in nature, conducted in an ICU of a tertiary care hospital from June 2019 to August 2019. The demographic data, clinical variables, the utilization of different antibiotics class (WHO-ATC classification, WHO/DDD), as well as for individual drugs and their cost incurred were recorded. Of 101 patients, 68 patients (67.33 %) received more than 1 antibiotic. Metronidazole was the most common antibiotic utilized at admission attributing to 29.70 % and during entire ICU stay accounting to 68.32 %. Metronidazole followed by ceftriaxone and piperacillin/ tazobactam were the maximally utilized antibiotics with 35.32, 31.22, and 23.82, DDD/100 bed-days, respectively. An average cost incurred to antibiotic therapy per patient was 1403 Indian rupees (INR).  Metronidazole followed by ceftriaxone was the most commonly prescribed antibiotics during ICU stay. A higher percentage of total cost was attributed by meropenem. Regular prescription audit and modification of antibiotic policy are required to curtail the inapt use of antibiotics and economic burden not only on patient but also on hospital pharmacy.

3 tables, 41 ref

000088   MAHARANI B, JAFRIN A L, BAHURUPI Y, SIVAGNANAM G (Pharmacology Dep, Indira Gandhi Medical Coll and Research Institute, Puducherry, Email: drkarthikrani@gmail.com) : Placebo prescription pattern among doctors of tertiary care institutions in Puducherry: A questionnaire-based study. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(3), 232-7.

Physicians administer placebo with the intention that it might relieve distress to their patients. This study aims to analyze the attitude and placebo prescribing practices and also to estimate the extent of placebo prescribed by the medical practitioners of tertiary care institutions. A questionnaire-based, cross-sectional study was conducted using a pre-validated questionnaire among medical professionals of two government and two private run tertiary care institutions. The questionnaire consisted of questions pertaining to essential demographic profile, knowledge on the existence of placebo, attitude regarding placebo and its usage, and incorporation of placebo in their practice. Response rate was 79.3 %. Majority of the participants 212 (89.1 %) were aware about the existence of placebo and only 179 (75.2 %) prescribed placebo. The prescription of placebo was significantly high among the male (57.6 %) respondents compared to female (42.4 %) respondents (P < 0.001). There was a statistically significant agreement on the majority of questions on acceptability of placebo by the practitioners who prescribed placebo. Vitamins, minerals, and trace elements were the most common elements considered as placebos and oral route was the most preferred route of administration. The most common disorders for which placebo was prescribed were musculoskeletal disorders (48 %), psychiatric complaints (25 %), and dermatological disorders (9.6 %). The most common reason for placebo prescription was for possible psychological support and catering to the patient’s expectation. Majority of the practitioners told that the placebo administration was effective sometimes only.  Majority of the participants were aware about the existence of placebo, most of them had prescribed placebo in their practice but sometimes employed it. Further studies are needed to study the prescription of placebo among other level health care physicians.

2 illus, 4 tables, 15 ref

000087   SHARMA M L, LAL M, VERMA R, KAUR H (Community Medicine Dep, Government Medical Coll, Amritsar, Punjab, Email: richa.verma_27@yahoo.com) : A cross-sectional study of health-related issues in relation to housing environment in a rural area of Amritsar, Punjab. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(2), 227-31.

The place where a person lives has a deep impact on his/her health status. The World Health Organization has highlighted the need to create healthy housing and neighborhood. This study was conducted to explore the correlation between home environment and health as very few studies have been conducted in this field. The present cross-sectional study was conducted in the rural field practice of Government Medical College. As 10 % of the houses were planned to be studied for the physical environment, so every 10th house was visited with a total of 117 houses for assessing the environmental factors and health problems in the households.  While open defecation was in practice in 19.6 % of the houses, waste collection points nearby in 68.4 % of the houses, and house flies around 82.1 % of the houses, cases of diarrhea and typhoid were reported by 5.1 % and 3.4 % of the houses, respectively. The presence of mosquitoes in 82.1 % of the houses and poor drainage system in 12.8 % of the houses resulted in malaria and dengue in 5.9 % and 1.7 % of the houses, respectively. Occurrence of dog bite cases in 7.7 % of the houses had been due to presence of stray dogs around 87.1 % of the houses. Poor sanitary conditions near the house contribute to health issues such as diarrhea, typhoid fever, worm infestations, acute respiratory infections, and others.

2 illus, 6 tables, 14 ref

000086   SARKAR R, SIKDAR K M Y K, MONJUR-AL-HOSSAIN A S M, SHARMIN N (Pharmaceutical Technology Dep, Dhaka Univ, Dhaka, Bangladesh, Email: nahidsharmin@du.ac.bd) : Improving the drug dissolution profile of poorly aqueous soluble lovastatin using hydrophilic polymers by solid dispersion and physical mixing techniques. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(2), 216-21.

Improvement of the dissolution rate and solubility of poorly aqueous soluble drugs using solid dispersion (SD) techniques  are considered as one of the most attractive processes. The focus of the current research project is to investigate the dissolution property of lovastatin (LVT) using SD technology comprising of drug, excipients, and carrier. The main objective of this study is to augment the dissolution profile of LVT, a statin medication belongs to biopharmaceutics classification system Class II drugs and water-insoluble, by applying SD procedures. The melt solvent/fusion and physical mixing (PM) methods were employed to prepare the SDs. PMs of LVT and hydrophilic carriers such as Kollidon 90F and Kollicoat IR were prepared and investigated at three different ratios (1:0.5, 1:1, and 1:2). SD formulation of LVT was prepared by melt solvent or fusion technique using hydrophilic carriers and polyethylene glycol at 1:0.5:5, 1:1:5, and 1:2:5 ratios. The characterization of the prepared SD formulations was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and in vitro dissolution studies.  Physical characterization experiment showed that SD of LVT prepared by fusion technique demonstrated improved dissolution property compared to the PM formulations or pure drug attributable to the conversion of LVT into an amorphous and/or less crystalline form. The results of in vitro dissolution enhancement order followed the same trend both in SD formulations and in PMs (Kollicoat IR> Kollidon 90F). The SEM analyses indicated that crystallinity of drug decreased in the SD formulation suggesting a portion of LVT could be in an amorphous state. The outcomes suggested a remarkably increased dissolution rate of LVT through SD systems prepared with suitable and correct proportion of polymers by melt solvent method and PM technique when compared with the pure drug dissolution profile. This was because of the hydrophilic carriers which affected the crystal structure of the drug. Hence, this approach of SD technique utilizing the above-mentioned carriers could be employed as a substantial formulation strategy to enhance the in vitro dissolution rate which, in turn, may improve the oral bioavailability of the water-insoluble drugs.

6 illus, 1 table, 22 ref

000085   METTA S, SATYANARAYANA U, KUMAR M A, DHARWADKAR A A (Physiology Dep, Maharajah’s Institute of Medical Sciences, Vizianagaram, Andhra Pradesh, Email: archanadharwadkar@gmail.com) : Impact of smoking on plasma antioxidant defenses and urinary 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine in ischemic heart diseases. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(2), 211-5.

Oxidative stress is associated with various morbid conditions such as atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease. Cigarette smoking is said to be associated with high oxidative stress levels which may predispose to ischemic heart diseases (IHDs). Urinary 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) has emerged as a biomarker for oxidative stress induced deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) damage.The present study aims at evaluating the plasma markers for oxidative stress and urinary 8-OHdG in smokers suffering from IHD. For the present study about 327 male subjects, including 127 healthy subjects and 200 consecutively admitted IHD patients were enrolled and were subsequently divided into two subgroups as smokers and non-smokers consisting of 100 non-smokers and 100 smokers, based on the history of smoking. The healthy control group consisted of 64 smokers and 63 non-smokers. All the subjects were evaluated for plasma malondialdehyde levels, total antioxidant status (TAS), and urinary 8-OHdG. There was increased oxidative stress evident by strong negative correlation between 8-OHdG and TAS was observed in the present study. The urinary 8-OHdG may serve as a sensitive indicator of DNA damage in smokers.

3 illus, 4 tables, 17 ref

000084   BHAD B J, PRAJAPATI V D, SUTHAR K M, DUMRA G H (Pharmacology Dep, AMC MET Medical Coll, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, Email: santabanta123456@gmail.com) : Drug utilization study in ophthalmology outpatient department at a tertiary care teaching hospital. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(2), 206-10.

Drug utilization studies are one of the key tools to provide basis for making evidence-based health-care decisions. Ophthalmology is the field in which there have been many drug developments in recent years. There are different classes of drug products available for the treatment of ophthalmic diseases. Given the scenario, such assessment in the form of drug utilization study supports to upgrade the quality of prescription. Nevertheless, such studies are less frequently done in Gujarat and hence this study was undertaken. This study aims to study drug utilization trends and patterns of prescription and in the ophthalmology outpatient department at a tertiary care teaching hospital in Ahmedabad. It was a cross-sectional, observational study conducted over the duration of 2 months, collecting in total 203 prescriptions, in the ophthalmology department of a tertiary care teaching hospital, Ahmedabad. Relevant information about the prescriptions were recorded and analyzed using the WHO prescribing indicators and additional indices.  Prescription scrutiny of 203 patients revealed that number of drugs per prescription was 2.61. Among the prescribed drugs, the most commonly prescribed were ocular lubricants (28.11 %) followed by antimicrobials (15.84 %) and anti-histamines (15.28 %). Conspicuously, the most common prescribed dosage form were eye drops (68.3 %), followed by tablets (26.79 %), ointments (4.33 %), and capsules (0.56 %). Fluoroquinolones were the most commonly prescribed antimicrobials (74.4 %) followed by aminoglycosides (13.6 %) and cephalosporins (8.8 %).  We concluded that ocular lubricants, antibiotics, and anti-histamines topped the prescribing pattern in this study with restrain on multidrug use.

4 illus, 2 tables, 18 ref

000083   JAYAGANAPATHY J, RAJASEGARAN R, DUBASHI B, MANI T (Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Gorimedu, Puducherry, Email: rajalakshmimd@yahoo.com) : Association between cardiac sympathovagal indices and psychological status of recent pediatric oncology caregivers: A pilot study. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(2), 201-5.

Parents who are caregivers of children diagnosed with cancer undergo significant amounts of stress and psychological distress. Exposure to chronic stress is known to result in autonomic imbalance, a known risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. The objective of this study was to assess the association between the cardiac sympathovagal indices and the psychological status of parents of children recently diagnosed with cancer. This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Physiology in collaboration with the Department of Medical Oncology at Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Puducherry. Thirty caregivers (19 males, 11 females) fulfilling the inclusion and exclusion criteria were recruited in the study. Cardiac sympathovagal indices and psychological status of study participants were assessed using Heart Rate Variability (HRV) analysis technique and the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale 21 (DASS-21) questionnaire respectively. The correlation between depression (D), anxiety (A) and stress (S) scores and HRV indices were assessed using the Spearman Correlation Coefficient test. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress were reported in 100 %, 90 % and 80 % of participants respectively. There was no significant correlation between the HRV indices and D, A, S scores. Non-significant negative correlations were observed between HRV indices indicative of cardiac parasympathetic activity and depression, anxiety and stress scores, thus indicating a trend towards decreased cardiac parasympathetic activity in these individuals. The psychological status of recent pediatric oncology caregivers is not associated with the cardiac autonomic status of these individuals. Longitudinal studies with a larger sample size are required to substantiate the results of the study.

4 tables, 20 ref

000082   SINGLA R, BAHUGUNA S (Pharmacology Dep, Government Doon Medical Coll, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, Email: singlarashmi@gmail.com) : Assessment of impact of nutritional status on pubertal development in adolescent girls of two senior secondary schools of Dehradun and to correct pubertal disorders by adolescent health counseling and adequate pharmacological intervention. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(2), 193-200.

Adolescence is a transitional stage of physical and psychological development that occurs during the period from onset of puberty to adulthood. Adolescent nutrition is crucial for proper growth and development and a prerequisite for achieving full development potential.  The objectives of the study were as follows: (1) To find out the gross nutritional status in girl students of two senior secondary schools in Dehradun, (2) to assess the level of pubertal development in them, (3) to find out correlation of nutritional status (body mass index, BMI) with pubertal development and physical activity, and (4) to do counseling on adolescent health and pharmacological intervention as needed. A cross-sectional observational study was undertaken among 200 adolescent girls of two senior secondary schools of Dehradun. They were of 12-18 year age group studying in class VI to XII. The sample was selected by systematic random sampling Their physical examination (weight & height ) was done to calculate BMI & pubertal assessment was done by means of oral questionnaire and by showing Tanner charts. The corelation between BMI & onset of pubertal events was analyzed statistically by Chi-square test. Results: Body mass index was normal in 44 %, low in 52 % of students& high in 4 %. On assessing pubertal events, menarche has occurred in 74 % of students out of which maximum number of students attained menarche at age of 12 years followed by 13 years. Breast changes (thelarche) were present in 74.5 % of students and pubic hair was present in 68 % of students. A correlation was found between BMI and pubertal events. In girls with low BMI (underweight), menarche was present in 52.94 % of cases, breast changes were in 52.94 % of cases, regularity of periods in 42.59 % of cases in girls with high BMI (overweight/obese), menarche was present in 91.66 % of cases, breast changes were in 100 % of cases, and regularity of periods in 36.36 % of cases. Pallor was present in 37.5 % of the total girls. Out of number of girls with normal weight, 80 % had regular physical activity and girls with high BMI had very less regular physical activity. The study concluded that underweight, overweight, and anemia were the nutritional problems detected and there was a statistically significant correlation of BMI with onset of pubertal events. Those with low BMI had delayed puberty and those with high BMI had earlier onset of pubertal events. Hence, the need for correction of nutritional disorders with healthy diet, physical exercise, and clinical consultation was considered very crucial to solve the problems of early and delayed puberty. Hence, counseling the girls on adolescent’s health was encouraged in schools including imparting knowledge, nutritional education, and supplementation.

4 illus, 8 tables, 26 ref

000081   DEEP A, SINHA H M P, JUYAL A (Physiology Dep, Government Doon Medical Coll, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, Email: deepy.manish@gmail.com) : Effect of smoking and pack-years on respiratory system. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(2), 183-6.

Smokers develop chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and are the fourth most common cause of death worldwide. This study aims to assess the effect of smoking on respiratory system with the help of following parameters, namely, peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) and respiratory rate and comparing with the age, sex, and body mass index-matched non-smokers (control group) and to correlate the number of pack-years of smoking and age with PEFR. The study was conducted at Santosh Medical College over a period of 2 years. Smokers in the age group of 20–65 years were selected and their consent was taken for participating in the present study.  The mean PEFR among the smokers was 365.8 L/s with standard deviation of 98.39 and standard error of mean 13.915 while the mean PEFR among non-smokers was found to be 388.5 L/s with standard deviation of 113.03 and standard error of mean 15.986.  It was clear from the present study that pulmonary function tests like PEFR are deranged in the smokers than the non-smokers.

2 tables, 25 ref

000080   THOMAS E, SASI S, MADHAVIKUTTY G D (Physiology Dep, Government Medical Coll, Kottayam, Kerala, Email: sethusilpa@gmail.com) : Prevalence of stress among first year medical students and its effect on heart rate variability. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(2), 178-82.

A high prevalence of stress is seen among 1st-year medical students. Stress has profound effects on mental and physical health and is seen to affect the autonomic balance with an increase in sympathetic and a decrease in parasympathetic activity. The objectives of the study were to estimate the prevalence of stress among 1st-year medical students, the distribution of stress in both genders and the association of heart rate variability (HRV) with stress. A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among 70 1st-year medical students (35 males and 35 females) aged between 18 and 23 years. A self-scoring medical students stress questionnaire was used to assess their degrees of stress. Short-term HRV was recorded by lead II electrocardiogram (ECG) using physiopac. The prevalence of stress was found to be 97.2 % among 1st-year medical students. Majority (65.7 %) of females had severe stress, while majority of males (51.4 %) had only mild to moderate stress. Although not significant, the mean values of low frequency (LF) power, normalized LF, and LF to high frequency (LF/HF) ratio were higher in mild to moderate and severe groups, compared to no stress group. The mean values of normalized HF were found to be lower in mild to moderate stress and severe stress groups, compared to no stress group, which was also not significant. The 1st-year medical students are stressed, with more stress among females. It is found to affect their autonomic balance reflected in their HRV values. Hence, to reduce stress, they are advised to adopt various stress-relieving measures.

3 tables, 21 ref

000079   KUMAR P, KUMAR A, RAHUL, RASTOGI D, SINGH J, GUPTA A, SRIVASTAVA C (Physiology Dep, Ganesh Shankar Vidyarthi Memorial Medical Coll, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, Email: Rahulsaini8954@gmail.com) : Preferred online teaching and assessment methods among Indian medical graduates in coronavirus disease era. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(2), 173-7.

The coronavirus disease (COVID)-19 pandemic triggers a change in the medical teaching and learning program from the classical didactic classroom lecture to the modern online method for preventing the spread of the coronavirus and preserving social distancing.  The aim of the study was to investigate the preferences and applications of different online teaching and assessment methods for Indian medical graduates (IMG). A total of 310 MBBS 1st year (Phase-1) students were included in this questionnaire-based cross-sectional analysis after the preparation of the question with the aid of Google forms. Some questions were supported by yes or no answers. Other questions were such as multiple-choice question (MCQs), in which students can choose more than one option. Google forms have been given to IMG of medical colleges. Consent should be drawn from all MBBS students interested in the research. PPT with voice recording is the most preferred (54.8 %) online teaching method and MCQ based assessment by Google form is the most preferred (81 %) online assessment method among IMG. About 76.1 % of students feel comfortable with 30–60 min of online lectures and are mostly (58 %) satisfied with their home environment for online teaching and learning. With all the pros and cons, 84.5 % of students still say that traditional face-to-face teaching is more effective compared to the new online method. Our study concludes that online teaching is in need of a COVID-19 pandemic era, but cannot replace the efficacy of conventional face-to-face classroom teaching with a modern online method due to more engagement and feedback between teachers and students.

4 illus, 5 tables, 12 ref

000078   GURUVU N R, PATIL B, BODDU D R, RAO B N, KUMARI N I (Pharmacology Dep, Great Eastern Medical School and Hospital, Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh, Email: neerajarao.nakka@gmail.com) : Antimicrobial activity of different types of honeys against wound pathogens. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(2), 169-72.

It was well known that honey has capability to heal wounds. Many studies highlighted the wound healing properties of honey. Honey inhibits growth of the microbes effectively. However, the studies related in this area were scanty.  This study aims to determine the antibacterial activity of different honeys against common wound pathogens. Bharat honey obtained from Bharat Unani Pharmacy, Hyderabad, and commercial honey from local market was tested and evaluated against the bacterial strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853, Escherichia coli ATCC 35218, and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 using in vitro agar well diffusion method. The study results confirmed that the honey was effective in inhibiting the growth of the microbes related to wound.  Bharat honey showed the highest antibacterial activity against both Gram-positive and -negative bacteria when compared to commercial honey.

2 tables, 40 ref

000077   KUNIKULLAYA K U, MURADI V, KUNNAVIL R, GOTURU J, PRAKASH V S, MURTHY N S (Physiology Dep, M. S. Ramaiah Medical Coll, Bengaluru, Karnataka, Email: kirthana.rguhs@gmail.com) : Gender-based comparison of salivary stress marker among healthy individuals after intervention with three melodic scales of Indian music – Exploration with a pretest-posttest design. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(2), 160-8.

Music is used as entertainment, but it has potential health benefits. Evidence regarding Indian music in controlling stress is meager. Hindustani music (a type of Indian music) has its system of musical scales (ragas).  The objective was to evaluate change in stress using salivary alpha-amylase (sAA) after passive listening to Hindustani ragas and its variation with gender. Healthy individuals were randomly divided into three groups that received music intervention (ahir bhairav, kaunsi kanada, and bhimpalas ragas/scales). Stress was assessed with salivary alpha-amylase including pre, during, post-intervention (each for 10 min) among both the genders were compared. SPSS 20.0 was used to analyze the data. All three ragas reduced sAA level (not significant). However, a significant difference in sAA level during and post music (P = 0.016) was observed.  Passive listening to any of the three Indian scales reduced stress, like the western melodic scales. Music medicine (passive listening to music) thus has therapeutic implications as an alternative therapy for stressed/anxious individuals in medical disorders. Gender-specific effects with each melodic scale were noted.

2 illus, 2 tables, 57 ref

000076   RAJESH R, VENUGOPAL S ( Anatomy Dep, N R I Institute of Medical Sciences, Vishakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, Email: rajesh2361@gmail.com) : High fructose diet-induced metabolic syndrome and the functional abnormalities in the liver and kidney of wistar albino rats. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(2), 156-9.

Metabolic syndrome is the combination of several medical conditions that increase the risk of developing heart diseases, stroke, cancer, non-alcoholic fatty liver, and diabetes mellitus. Different varieties of animal models have been used for the therapeutic studies of diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and kidney diseases. The establishment of appropriate experimental animal models of metabolic syndrome is very important for evaluating the pathophysiology of the disease in humans. The aim of the study was to assess the structural and functional abnormalities associated with high fructose diet (HFrD)-induced metabolic syndrome in Wistar albino rats. Metabolic syndrome is induced in adult male Wistar albino rats by feeding a combination of HFrD (55 %) and fructose enriched water (15 %) for 75 days and kept as Group 2 or HFrD group. Normal male Wistar albino rats were kept as normal control. During the entre course of study weekly weight gain was monitored, once a week in both groups biochemical investigations such as lipid profile, liver function test, and renal function test were carried out using standard methods. The obtained data were statistically analyzed by students “t-test” and the values were considered statistically significant at P < 0.05.  Chronic administration of HFrD resulted in obesity, abnormal hepatic, and renal functions in Wistar rats. Consumption of HFrD produces functional abnormalities in liver and kidney of Wistar rats.

2 tables, 19 ref

000075   BAISAKHIYA S, VERMA P (Physiology Dep, Gandhi Medical Coll, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, Email: drpratibhav4@gmail.com) : Association between intraocular pressure, mean blood pressure, and mean ocular perfusion pressure among normal healthy adults. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(2), 152-5.

On the one hand, hypertension is an independent risk factor for glaucoma; on the other hand, hypertension is protective by increasing mean ocular perfusion pressure (MOPP). Reduction in ocular perfusion pressure results in decreased blood flow to the optic nerve head hence plays a role in the pathogenesis of glaucoma. Low MOPP would result from reduction in mean blood pressure (MBP) and increase in intraocular pressure (IOP).  The aim of the study was to find out the association between MBP, IOP, and MOPP in normal healthy adults. Materials and Methods: The study included 300 healthy young individuals. The BP was recorded using Mercury Sphygmomanometer and IOP recording was done using Slit lamp mounted Goldman Applanation tonometer. MBP was calculated by the formula MBP = DBP+1/3 pulse pressure. The MOPP was calculated by formula: MOPP=MBP–IOP. The subjects were divided into five groups based on the value of MBP: Group 1: 71–80 mm of Hg, Group 2: 81–90 mm of Hg, Group 3: 91–100 mm of Hg, Group 4: 100–110 mm of Hg, and Group 5: >110 mm of Hg. IOP increased linearly with increase in MBP. (P < 0.001) MOPP was positively correlated with MBP in both males (r = 0.985, P < 0.001) and females (r = 0.986, P < 0.001). The MBP is positively correlated with IOP in both males (r = 0.615, P < 0.001) and females (r = 0.668, P < 0.001).  Increased MBP is a risk factor for raised IOP as well as raised MOPP. Whether raised MOPP is protective against primary open angle glaucoma or not is still question of debate and needs further evaluation.

3 tables, 17 ref

000074   SINGH R, SINGH R K, VANDANA (Physiology Dep, Patna Medical Coll and Hospital, Patna, Bihar, Email: alok2969@gmail.com) : Assessment of lung age and body mass index in young health care workers – A cross-sectional study. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(2), 138-40.

Obesity has serious consequences on the functions of respiratory system, significant alterations in mechanics of respiration, gaseous exchange, and capacity to cope up with exercise and also severely affects compliance. The aim of this study was to study the relation between lung age and body mass index among young adults. Materials and Methods: The present study comprised 100 subjects (age group between 18 and 30 years). Inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied in their selection. Mean lung age in Group A, B, and C was 23.29, 23.95, and 24.53. The F value was 0.259 and P = 0.772 which is statistically insignificant. Post hoc test was applied, mean and standard deviation between different groups were compared. When compared between Group A and B group, P = 0.692 which is not significant, between A group and group C, p value was 0.504 which is also not significant and between B group and C group, it was 0.792 which was also not significant. Obesity does not have direct effect on the lung age among healthy non-smoking adults and any such effect needs to be explained by underlying respiratory diseases.

2 tables, 11 ref

000073   BANERJEE A, BEDI M, VARSHNEY V P (Physiology Dep, Maulana Azad Medical Coll, New Delhi, Email: b.arijita@gmail.com) : Cardiovascular reactivity to mental and physical stress in offspring of hypertensive parents. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(2), 134-7.

Exaggerated cardiovascular reactivity to stressful stimuli is a risk factor for the development of hypertension. The genetic influence on blood pressure (BP) reactivity to stress and its control mechanisms has been receiving considerable support. The study aims at comparing the reactivity scores of mental arithmetic stress test and cold pressor test (∆MAST, ∆CPT) in offspring with and without genetic predisposition to hypertension.  The study was conducted on 40 medical students with diagnosed hypertensive parents and an equal number of age- and sex-matched healthy controls aged 17–20 years. Each subject was exposed to two different stress tests on 2 successive days. Cardiovascular parameters: BP – systolic BP (SBP) and diastolic BP, pulse rate, pulse pressure, and mean arterial pressure and rate pressure product were calculated before, during. and after the test. The reactivity scores were analyzed using independent t-test or Mann–Whitney test. P <0.05 was considered as statistically significant.  Offspring of hypertensive parents had significantly higher SBP (139.0 ± 1.4 and 120.93 ± 1.6 mmHg) and increased reactivity score to MAST (18.1 ± 0.84 and 14.62 ± 1.4 mmHg), but not to CPT (12.82 ± 0.64 and 11.64 ± 1.32 mmHg) than offspring of normotensive parents.Our study showed relative exaggerated cardiovascular reactivity to mental stress (MAST) compared to physical stress (CPT).

2 illus, 3 tables, 15 ref

000072   TATIA P, SANGEETHA A, VISHNUPRASAATH S, KUMARESAN M, VIJAYALAKSHMI B (Physiology Dep, Saveetha Medical Coll and Hospitals, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, Email: sangeethasrmc@yahoo.com) : Effect of change in hemoglobin level on the quality of life among adult females in urban population of India. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(2), 130-3.

Most physicians appear to be aware of the health consequences of advanced anemia, a frequent cause of morbidity in both developed and developing nations alike. Hemoglobin is an important determinant of the body’s work efficiency and can impact one’s physical and mental well-being.  The aim is to assess the effect of variations in hemoglobin level on the quality of life among adult females in the urban population.  A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study was conducted among adult females between the age groups of 18 and 40 years.  In total 100 female individuals, 51 % had 12–15 g % of hemoglobin. About 47.9 % of females had regular menstrual cycle, 64 % of the population had 6–7 h of sleep every day. These findings suggest that there is an improvement in health-related quality of life with increase hemoglobin levels.

4 illus, 20 ref

000071   KARMUR K A, GOHEL V D, SORANI A, VARU M S (Physiology Dep, Shri M P Shah Government Medical Coll, Jamnagar, Gujarat, Email: drmaulikvaru@yahoo.com) : A comparative study of 10 weeks of Yoga’s impact on respiratory functions of two different age groups of healthy volunteers. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(2), 126-9.

Yoga is looked upon as a very good exercise for a healthy life and has a profound impact on the respiratory functions of an individual. Aim and Objectives: Our study was directed to assess some respiratory functions in healthy volunteers aged 20–65 years before and after 10 weeks Yoga practice and to assess the outcomes between young-middle aged and older aged individuals. The present comparative study was conducted on 40 subjects who came willingly as participants for the project with written and informed consent. It was a prospective study on healthy participants from both gender of age between 20 and 65 years and the study groups were divided into two based on age, Group-I (20–49 years, young-middle aged) and Group-II (50–65 years, older aged). Some pulmonary function tests were measured and the mean values were matched within and between the groups before and after yoga practice. Our study found significantly higher values of forced vital capacity (FVC) in Group-I in contrast to Group-II before yoga practice. We also found a significant increase in FVC and peak expiratory flow rate in Group-I as well as Group-II after 10 weeks yoga practice with an almost similar improvement in both the groups. From our present study, we come to the conclusion that yoga practice can be recommended to produce maximum improvement in the respiratory functions of healthy individuals and consequently to prevent respiratory ailments in the future.

1 illus, 5 tables, 12 ref

000070   KHAKIMOV Z Z, RAKHMANOV A K, SAFAEVA S T (Tashkent Medical Academy, Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Email: dr.ali.fl@mail.ru) : Asphervon-related increase of bile secretion as a preventive measure and therapeutic agent for heliotrin induced hepatitis in rats. Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2021, 11(1), 96-101.

Considering the significant increase in the number of patients suffering from liver diseases of various etiologies, for example, viral, toxic, medicinal, alcoholic, and others, today, improving the quality and safety of pharmacotherapy of the hepatobiliary system diseases is an urgent problem of modern pharmacology and clinical hepatology. Aim and Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate the Asfervon related increase of bile secretion activity in rats with heliotrin-induced hepatitis.  The experiments were carried out on outbred white rats, males, weigh 160–210 g. For studying the preventive effect of drugs, animals were injected orally in doses of 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg Asfervon, and Legalon – 100 mg/kg, before the administration of heliotrin for 2 days, and after the administration of heliotrin for the next 5 days. A model of acute toxic hepatitis was reproduced by a single injection of a freshly prepared aqueous solution of heliotrin at a dose of 250 mg/kg subcutaneously. Animals who received Asfervon preventively at doses of 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg bile secretion decrease were less significant of 49.2, 17.2, and 20.3 %, respectively. The preliminary administration of Asfervon increased the amount of excreted bile in comparison with the untreated group of animals by 38.3, 125.5, and 117.0 %, respectively, at the indicated doses. Asfervon is a drug with a pronounced hepatoprotective activity, not inferior to the classic hepatoprotective medication Legalon. Asfervon promotes bile secretion in preventive and treatment experiments.

3 tables, 21 ref