Self-Help Groups : An Effective Approach To Women Empowerment In India

The concept of Self-Help Group has its roots in rural areas and it has been mooted along the rural semi-urban women to improve their living conditions. Today Self-Help Groups (SHGs) play a major role in poverty alleviation in rural areas. In India, this scheme was implemented with the help of NABARD as a main nodal agency in rural development. It is a self employment generation scheme especially for rural women, who do not have their own assets. The word 'Empowerment' means giving power. According to the International Encyclopaedia (1999), power means having the capacity and the means to direct one's life towards desired social, political and economic goals or status. Empowerment of women is not just a goal in itself, it is a key to all global development. Empowerment is an active multi-dimensional process to enable women to realize their identity and power in all spheres of life. This paper examines the women empowerment through SHGs and also explains the current position of women empowerment in India

Reproductive and breeding biology of Schizothorax labiatus, a snow trout found in River Jhelum, Kashmir

Aim: Schizothorax labiatus is one of the economically valuable food fish among indigenous schizothoracids (snow trouts), inhabiting the Jhelum River system in Kashmir along with other snow trouts of family Cyprinidae. The present study was conducted to understand and bring forward various reproductive traits of S. labiatus inhabiting River Jhelum. Methodology: The investigation was carried on 310 samples (221 males and 89 females) with total length and total weight ranging between 143 to 350 mm and 62 to 449 g, respectively, for a period twelve months. Results: Gonadosomatic index (GSI) was recorded maximum during April for both males (6.19) and females (11.12), indicating that the fish fully matures during this month and spawns during coming months i.e., May when the GSI values start decreasing abruptly. The average values of absolute and relative fecundity in the fish were recorded per gm body weight as 10323 and 42, respectively. Sex ratio was found in 1:0.41 ratio, indicating a significant dominance of males over opposite sex and Lm, i.e., length at first maturity was estimated to be 196 mm and the corresponding age at this length was 2+ years. Interpretation: The fish breeds once in a year in natural/wild habitat. These findings on reproductive biology of the endemic snow trout, and the influence of environmental conditions on breeding biology will serve as a baseline data towards planning seed production and conservation strategies.

A randomized cross over trial of oral nifedipine and intravenous labetalol in pregnant women with severe pre-eclampsia and eclampsia

Background: The aim of treatment of severe pre-eclampsia and eclampsia is to quickly bring about a smooth reduction in blood pressure to levels that are safe for both mother and baby but avoiding any sudden drops. There are not many studies comparing nifedipine and labetalol for this purpose. Authors conducted this study with the aim of comparing their efficacy in reducing maternal blood pressure.Methods: It was a cross over trial with 30 patients in each group conducted at a tertiary care hospital. 60 pregnant women were randomized to receive nifedipine (20mg loading dose followed by 10 mg tablet, orally, up to maximum of five doses) or  intravenous labetalol  (in an escalating dose regimen of 20, 40, 80, 80 and 80 mg)  every 20 minutes until the target blood pressure of 150/100 mmHg was achieved. Crossover treatment was affected if the initial treatment regimen was unsuccessful after 20 min of the last dose of the drug in the respective groups.Results: The mean time to achieve the target blood pressure was 32.0 ±18.64 minutes (mean ± SD) in nifedipine group as compared with 37.04 ± 16.36 minutes in those receiving labetalol (P = .002). In the nifedipine group 63.3% required only one dose compared to 36.6% in the labetalol group.  Only two women in the nifedipine group required maximum number of doses that is five doses. Cross over treatment was required by 10% of patients in the labetalol group and none in the nifedipine group.Conclusions: This study shows that oral nifedipine is more effective than intravenous labetalol in rapid control of hypertension in severe pre-eclampsia and eclampsia.

Hypocholesterolemic potential of probiotics: Concept and mechanistic insights

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) have become one of the leading causes of global mortality. The raised serum cholesterol levels and its progressive accumulation in arterial walls results in development of atherosclerosis that leads to most of the heart attacks and strokes. Use of probiotics has been implicated for several health benefits including their cholesterol lowering potential and hence management of CVDs. The current review aims to describe the association of gut microbiota, probiotics and their potential mechanisms responsible for hypocholesterolemic effects. Probiotics execute hypo-cholesterolemic effects through several mechanisms such as bile salt hydrolase activity (BSH), deconjugation of bile salts, cholesterol assimilation, coprecipitation of cholesterol with deconjugated bile salts, removal of cholesterol with cellular surfaces through physical forces, incorporation of cholesterol in the cell membrane of the probiotics, intestinal conversion of cholesterol in coprostanol, and inhibition of Niemann–Pick C1 like 1 (NPC1L1) cholesterol transporter in the enterocytes. However, the health benefits including the hypocholesterolemic effects appear to be a strain specific phenomenon. Further studies are necessary for better understanding of the in-depth molecular mechanisms governing the hypocholesterolemic effects and to establish the probiotics as a potential non-pharmaceutical approach for management of CVDs.

Modified low cost SNP genotyping technique using cycle threshold (Ct) & melting temperature (Tm) values in allele specific real-time PCR.

Background & objectives: Genotyping has now become one of the major diagnostic means for almost all diseases. Among the advanced techniques that are used to study single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), only a few are applicable for routine disease diagnosis. Their applicability mainly depends on three factors: cost, time, and accuracy. The primary objective of this study was to propose allele-specific real-time PCR as a rapid, low cost and simple genotyping method for routine diagnostics. Methods: Two SNPs, rs3014866 and rs2149356 were analysed using allele-specific real-time PCR. The polymerase chain reaction was carried out using RealQ PCR master mix containing SYBR Green DNA I dye followed by melt curve analysis. The results were validated by agarose gel electrophoresis and DNA sequencing. Results: The allelic discrimination and zygosity of the two SNPs were assessed by combined cycle threshold (Ct) and melting temperature (Tm) values. Variations in Ct and Tm values among the two alleles were observed in both rs3014866 (Ct: C allele - 24±1, T allele - 27±1; Tm: C allele - 82.5±0.3, T allele - 86.3±0.2) and rs2149356 (Ct: C allele - 24±1, A allele - 26±1; Tm: C allele - 79.4±0.2, A allele - 80.4±0.3). Based on the variations, homozygous and heterozygous alleles were detected. Agarose gel electrophoresis and DNA sequencing also confirmed the allelic variation and zygosity observed in real-time PCR. Interpretation & conclusions: In diagnostic settings where a large number of samples are analysed daily, allele-specific real-time PCR assay may serve as a simple, low cost and efficient method of genotyping

In vitro propagation of the Garden Heliotrope, Valeriana officinalis L.: Influence of pre-chilling and light on seed germination.

Valeriana officinalis is an important medicinal herb commonly found in Kashmir valley. This study forms an important preliminary step for in-vitro micro propagation of V. officinalis from breaking the seed dormancy, inducing rapid seed germination and its subsequent micro propagation. We investigated the influence of pretreatment of V. officinalis seeds with reduced temperature and light on seed germination and in-vitro propagation. Culture of explants from cultivated seeds have demonstrated its potential for in vitro propagation and plantlet regeneration. Individual as well as combinations of treatments such as temperature and light availability influenced the germination of seeds variedly. Unchilled seeds of V. officinalis were given dip in GA3 (200 ppm) for 24, 48 and 120 h. Seeds treated with GA3 for 24 h and kept in darkness showed the best results, i.e. 48%. Seeds pretreated with GA3 for 120 h and incubated in dark showed 40% germination. Pre-chilling up to 72 h and kept in light showed maximum germination of 60% followed by 40% kept in darkness. Pre-chilling for 48 h resulted in 40 and 25% seed germination in light and darkness, respectively. GA3 pre-treatment for 72 h and 24 h pre chilling were most effective in inducing seed germination. Maximum shoot response was obtained on MS enriched with BAP (1mg/L) + IAA (0.1mg/L) combinations using shoot tips as explants. Multiple shoot regeneration from shoot apices was recorded on BAP (1mg/L) and BAP (1mg/L) + IAA (0.1mg/L).

Asymptomatic colonization of upper respiratory tract by potential bacterial pathogens.

Objective. To screen for asymptomatic respiratory carriage of S. pneumoniae, H. influenzae and Group A Streptococcus (GAS) in children attending JIPMER, correlate carriage rate with different socio-demographic factors and to detect antimicrobial resistance among the isolates. Methods. Throat swabs were collected from both in patients and out patients (≤12 yr of age) and processed. Bacteria were identified by standard techniques. Susceptibility to commonly used antimicrobial agents was determined by Kirby Bauer disc diffusion technique. Results. Overall carriage rate of respiratory pathogens was 30% with S. pneumoniae, H. influenzae and GAS accounting for 22%, 5% and 4.5% respectively. Three patients had >1 organism. Antibiotic resistance was highest in S. pneumoniae with 66.7% of strains resistant to penicillin. MDR strains were also encountered. Erythromycin resistance was observed in both H. influenzae (28.4%) and GAS (22%).No statistically significant association was found between the carriage rate of these organisms and different socio-demographic factors. Conclusions. S. pneumoniae carriage rate was comparatively higher in the community and its antimicrobial resistance is an issue to address.

Oxidative stress in perinatal asphyxia in relation to outcome.

Objective. To study the serum levels of oxidative stress markers - malondialdehyde (MDA) and protein carbonyl in babies with perinatal asphyxia and to correlate their levels with the outcome in terms of mortality and neurodevelopmental sequelae. Methods. A group of 40 term AGA (appropriate for gestational age) infants with perinatal asphyxia were selected as cases and same number of healthy babies as controls. Serum levels of oxidative stress markers - malondialdehyde and protein carbonyl were determined in cord blood and at 48 hours of life. Their levels were correlated with the outcome of perinatal asphyxia in terms of mortality and the long term neurological outcome. Results. MDA and protein carbonyl, in cord blood were significantly higher among cases (5.88±1.40 μmol/L and 1.50±0.48 nmol/mg of protein respectively) than controls (3.11±0.82 μmol/L and 0.83±0.19 nmol/mg of protein respectively). Among the cases, MDA and protein carbonyl values at 48 hours of life (7.52 ± 1.06 μmol/L and 2.91 ± 0.62 nmol/mg of protein respectively) were significantly higher than those at birth. MDA at birth and 48 hours was significantly higher among babies who had seizures than those who remained seizure free. These values were also significantly higher in babies who expired as compared to those who survived. Protein carbonyl values though higher in those who had seizures and in those who expired, were not statistically significant from controls. MDA and protein carbonyl at birth and 48 hours were higher in babies with developmental delay but the association was not statistically significant. Conclusions. In hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), oxidative stress markers MDA and protein carbonyl are high at birth and rise further at 48 hours and the values correlate with the morbidity and mortality. Therefore, determining the serum levels of oxidative stress markers MDA and protein carbonyl will be of benefit in predicting the outcome in perinatal asphyxia.

Fulminant hepatic failure in an infant with severe dengue infection.

Fulminant hepatic failure due to dengue infection is rare, although mild liver dysfunction is common. Here we report a fatal case of fulminant hepatitis in an infant infected with dengue 3 serotype. Attention must be given to the use of hepatotoxic drugs in some cases of dengue especially in infants.

Electrocardiographic and echocardiographic changes in perinatal asphyxia.

OBJECTIVE: To study the usefulness of cardiac enzymes in evaluating myocardial damage in perinatal asphyxia. METHODS: Thirty term babies with perinatal asphyxia and without any congenital malformations were selected as cases. They were compared with thirty healthy term babies without asphyxia. Myocardial dysfunction was evaluated using clinical, electrocardiography, echocardiography and cardiac enzymes i.e, troponin-T and CK-MB levels. RESULTS: Among the 30 cases 23 had evidence of myocardial involvement while one baby in the control group had ECG evidence compatible with cardiac involvement. Cardiac enzymes were significantly increased in babies with perinatal asphyxia. The mean level of C-troponin-T among cases and controls were 0.22+/-0.28 and 0.003+/-0.018 while CK-MB levels were 121+/-77.4 IU/L and 28.8 +/- 20.2 IU/L respectively. C-troponin-T had higher sensitivity and specificity compared to CK-MB levels. Moreover, C troponin-T levels correlated well with severity and outcome in babies with perinatal asphyxia. CONCLUSION: C-Tropopnin assay is useful in evaluating the severity of myocardial damage and outcome in perinatal asphyxia.

Cardiac enzyme levels in myocardial dysfunction in newborns with perinatal asphyxia.

OBJECTIVE: To study the usefulness of cardiac enzymes in evaluating myocardial damage in perinatal asphyxia. METHODS: Thirty term babies with perinatal asphyxia and without any congenital malformations were selected as cases. They were compared with thirty healthy term babies without asphyxia. Myocardial dysfunction was evaluated using clinical, electrocardiography, echocardiography and cardiac enzymes i.e, troponin-T and CK-MB levels. RESULTS: Among the 30 cases 23 had evidence of myocardial involvement while one baby in the control group had ECG evidence compatible with cardiac involvement. Cardiac enzymes were significantly increased in babies with perinatal asphyxia. The mean level of C-troponin-T among cases and controls were 0.22+/-0.28 and 0.003+/-0.018 while CK-MB levels were 121+/-77.4 IU/L and 28.8 +/- 20.2 IU/L respectively. C-troponin-T had higher sensitivity and specificity compared to CK-MB levels. Moreover, C troponin-T levels correlated well with severity and outcome in babies with perinatal asphyxia. CONCLUSION: C-Tropopnin assay is useful in evaluating the severity of myocardial damage and outcome in perinatal asphyxia.

Short rib polydactyly syndrome - type 2 (Majewski).

Short rib polydactyly syndromes (SRPS) are a group of inherited autosomal recessive skeletal dysplasias. It is characterized by the triad of micromelia, polydactyly and short horizontal ribs with or without visceral involvement. We report a case of SRPS-2 in a fresh stillborn and discuss the differential diagnosis.

Effect of pregnancy induced hypertension on mothers and their babies.

OBJECTIVE: To study the hematological profile of mothers with pregnancy induced hypertension and their infants. METHODS: The effects of maternal hypertension on the hematological profile of neonates were studied in 50 cases comparing the values with that of infants born to normotensive mothers. RESULTS: There was higher number of preterm, Intra-Uterine Growth Restriction (IUGR) and Small for Gestational Age (SGA) babies among the infants of hypertensive mothers. There was a significantly higher incidence of thrombocytopenia and nucleated RBCs seen in these babies. Significant neutropenia was not documented and there was no increased incidence of bleeding when compared to controls. CONCLUSION: Although there were significant changes in the hematological profile of infants born to hypertensive mothers, there was no significant increase in neonatal morbidity as a result of these changes.

Maternal genital bacteria and surface colonization in early neonatal sepsis.

OBJECTIVE: The study was intended to evaluate the role of maternal genital bacteria and baby's surface colonization in early onset neonatal sepsis. METHODS: Babies (born in the hospital of Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research) who developed clinical signs of sepsis were studied. Swabs were collected for culture from baby's umbilicus, ear, throat in addition to gastric aspirate and blood culture. The genital tract of the mother was also studied for bacterial colonization. The organisms isolated from the maternal genital tract and baby's surface colonization were correlated with those isolated from blood culture by calculating Phi correlation coefficient. RESULTS: Esch coli was the most common organism isolated from maternal genital tract and surface cultures of babies, but Klebseilla-Spp was the most common organism isolated from blood. There was a significant correlation between surface colonization of babies and maternal genital bacteria, so also was baby's surface culture and blood culture. However, correlation between maternal genital bacteria and baby's blood culture was not significant. CONCLUSION: Surface colonizing bacteria and not maternal genital bacteria are important in early onset neonatal sepsis.

Neural tube defects in Pondicherry.

OBJECTIVE: This study was carried out to identify the trend and the frequency of neural tube defects from July 1998 to June 2004. METHODS: A total of 310 babies were born with neural tube defects with the overall frequency of 5.7/1000 births compared to 2.3/1000 births observed earlier in our hospital. RESULTS: The most common defect was spina bifida (54.8%) followed by anencephaly (31.6%), and encephalocele (11.6%). More neural tube defects were observed in female and low birth weight babies, still births and unbooked mothers. Neural tube defect was significantly higher among babies born to parents of consanguineous marriage (p< 0.01). Associated congenital defects were observed in thirty nine (12.6%) cases. CONCLUSION: The rise in the frequency of NTDS may indicate the current trend of NTDs in Southern India. A further prospective study is desired to measure the effectiveness of regular folic acid supplementation in bringing down this frequency.

Value of nucleated red blood cells in predicting severity and outcome of perinatal asphyxia.

The objective of the study was to assess nucleated red blood cell counts in cord blood in a group of asphyxiated infants, and to determine its predictive value for short-term outcome. A prospective case control study was undertaken on cord blood samples collected from fifty six term neonates with perinatal asphyxia and an equal number of normal appropriately matched controls for cord blood pH and nucleated RBC counts. Babies were followed up in nursery till discharge. Statistical analysis employed were ANOVA test, logistic and linear regression analysis. There was a significant increase in the number of nucleated red blood cells in cases as compared to controls. Low Apgar, cord blood pH and neonatal outcome correlated well with nucleated RBC counts. Nucleated red blood cell count at birth is a useful predictor of severity and short-term outcome of perinatal asphyxia.