Hydrogel applications for yield improvement of capsicum with deficit irrigation at cold desert Ladakh region

Aim: The study aimed to evaluate the effects of hydrogel application on growth, physiological responses and yield of capsicum under high altitude cold desert conditions with deficit irrigation of Ladakh region. Methodology: Field experiment was conducted with five levels of hydrogel treatment (viz. 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20 kg ha-1) at cold desert Ladakh region with two irrigation intervals (7 and 11 days) during 2014-15 cropping season. Plant growth characters, root morphology, physiological parameters and capsicum yield were analyzed according to standard methods during the experiments. Results: Hydrogel application in deficit irrigation improved physiological parameters viz. leaf chlorophyll content, relative water content, membrane stability index and significant reduction in electrolyte leakage in capsicum plant. Significant improvement in root morphology was also recorded when hydrogel was applied @ 15 and 20 kg ha-1. Improvement of yield attributing characters as influenced by hydrogel application @ 15 and 20 kg ha-1 resulted in significant increase in capsicum yield with reduced water requirement. Interpretation: Hydrogel has potential for growth of capsicum crop through improved root morphology and physiology of plant in deficit irrigation under arid and semi-arid regions where availability of water for irrigation is scarce or average rainfall is quite low.

Enteric parasitosis and its correlation with CD4 count in human immunodeficiency virus infected patients

Background: The gastrointestinal tract of the HIV/AIDS patient (s) is harboured by a number of luminal extracellular and intracellular parasites. These parasites are responsible for deteriorating and worsening the general health condition(s) of these immunocompromised groups of patients. Moreover, these parasitic infections are often correlated with the CD4 counts of the individuals. Therefore, with a view to assess the relationship between the presence of parasitic infection and that of the CD4 count, the present work is being undertaken.Methods: The study was conducted in the Parasitology section of the department of Life Sciences, Manipur University and CD4 count unit of Microbiology Department, RIMS hospital Imphal from 34 HIV positive Antiretroviral treatment (ART) naive patients, aged between 19 to 50 years. The samples were taken from the patients only after obtaining a signed consent form . Techniques like normal saline method, iodine wet preparation method, formol ethyl acetate concentration technique, Baermann modified funnel technique, modified Ziehl Neelsen staining technique and adhesive cellophane tape method were employed for the present investigation.Results: The present study reveals that patients with CD4 count <200 cells/μl were harbouring only two parasites (Cryptosporidium sp and G. lamblia) whereas individuals with CD4 count within the range of 200-500 cells/μl were observed to have harboured G. lamblia, Cryptosporidium sp, E.histolytica, hookworm, S. stercoralis and A. lumbricoides. On the other hand, enteric parasites associated with CD4 count >500 cells/μl included G. lamblia, hookworm, E. vermicularis and S. stercoralis.Conclusions: The present study shows that occurrence of intestinal parasitism is independent of CD4 count in HIV infected patients. Therefore, based on the present findings, it may be suggested that irrespective of CD4 count(s) and whether the patient experiences diarrhoea or not, regular monitoring of the HIV patient(s) for the presence of enteric parasitosis by adopting standard laboratory protocols should be encouraged for maintaining a healthy life of the people living with HIV/AIDS.

A descriptive study on prevalence pattern of Japanese encephalitis in State of Manipur

Background and Objective: Japanese encephalitis (JE) surveillance is not well established in many countries, and laboratory confirmation is challenging, the true extent and prevalence of the virus and burden of disease are not well understood. It is estimated that 67,900 clinical cases of JE occur annually despite the widespread availability of vaccine, with approximately 13,600–20,400 deaths and an overall incidence rate of 1.8/100,000 in the 24 countries with JE risk. The present study aimed at determining the prevalence rate (PR) and distribution (time, place and person) of JE cases in Manipur. This descriptive study was conducted over 24-month period (2016–2017). Materials and Methods: A total of 1770 cases of acute encephalitis syndrome tested for JE including 251 confirmed JE were diagnosed by IgM antibody-capture enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: The JE cases were most commonly reported in the age group of >15 years. Most of JE prevalence was seen in rural distribution in our study. There is a strong seasonal pattern of JE occurrence in Manipur which peaked in July–August and declined by October each year, which corresponds to the monsoon season. The JE cases were reported in all the districts of the state expanding in the plains and hill regions. Conclusions: The changing pattern of JE cases among different age groups was also observed in our study. The present study reveals the changing pattern of the prevalence of JE in the State of Manipur and initiated a systematic approach of JE surveillance also highlights the need for further expanding of surveillance across the state.

Measles outbreak investigation in Dwarahat block of District Almora, Uttarakhand.

Background: We report an assessment of measles outbreak during the months of February 2014 to April 2014 in Dwarahat block of district Almora and the response mounted to it. Materials and Methods: An intensive door‑to‑door search to six measles affected villages in Dwarahat block of district Almora, covering a population of 2,408 was carried out to identify the cases of measles by a rapid response team (RRT). A total of ten blood samples were randomly collected for detecting IgM antibody against measles. For all cases, information on personal details, place of residence, time of onset and status of immunization were obtained. Results: Overall attack rate (AR) was 2.8%. AR among the population of age‑group 0–16 was 7.2%. Statistically significant higher AR (16.26%) was seen for the age‑group of 0–5 years as compare to 6–10 and 11–16 years of age (AR‑8.71, relative risk‑0.53, 95% confidence interval‑0.32–0.88, P value‑0.012 and AR‑0.57%, relative risk‑0.035, 95% confidence interval‑0.00–0.14, P value‑0.000, respectively). Males were affected more often than females 35 [59.2%] vs. 24 [40.8%]. Measles‑related complications were seen in three children. No death was reported. Of the 10 samples, nine were positive for measles IgM antibodies by enzyme‑linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Conclusion: The recognition of early warning signals, timely investigation and application of specific control measures can contain the outbreak. The unvaccinated or partially protected human beings serve as the reservoir of measles virus. Hence, there is a need for sero surveillance for measles in Uttarakhand and one catch up measles immunisation campaign to prevent future outbreak.

Rehabilitation of an edentulous mouth with severe mandibular ridge resorption using neutral zone impression technique: a case report.

Alveolar ridge atrophy poses a clinical challenge towards the fabrication of a successful prosthesis. Resorption of denture bearing areas results in an unstable non-retentive dentures associated with pain and discomfort. Prosthetic Rehabilitation of a patient with severely resorbed ridge is the most challenging therapy a prosthodontist can undertake. For a favourable prognosis of the denture therapy, impression technique selected should be based on the present state of the basal tissue support. This article presents rehabilitation of a patient with severely resorbed mandibular ridge with the application of neutral zone concept being incorporated into impression making in an effort to achieve successful complete denture therapy. Finally, patient had more stable, retentive and functionally efficient complete denture. In conclusion, neutral zone impression technique proved to be a quite effective method for prosthetic rehabilitation of patient with severe mandibular ridge resorption.

A study of efficacy of labetalol in pregnancy induced hypertension.

Background: Pregnancy induced hypertension is a common medical complication associated with pregnancy. When untreated ,it has serious implications on maternal and fetal health. Labetalol is a new an anti hypertensive agent with alpha adrenergic and non selective beta –adrenergic receptor blocking actions. Objectives: 1)To assess the effect of labetalol on control of blood pressure in moderate to severe Pregnancy induced hypertension2)To study the side effects of labetalol 3)To analyze the maternal and perinatal outcome. Material and Methods: A prospective observational study of 50 cases of moderate to severe Pregnancy induced hypertension, treated with Labetalol ,was conducted over a period of two years. Cases were divided in Labetalol-respondent and non respondent group. Pregnancies from non-respondent group were terminated either by induction of labour or by caesarean section .Cases who responded to labetalol, were treated with oral Labetalol. Obstetric and perinatal outcome in both the groups was analyzed. Results: Fifty six percent cases did not respond to intravenous labetalol therapy (maximum dose 120 mg over 30 minutes) and thus pregnancy was terminated. Forty four percent cases responded to labetalol therapy and pregnancy was continued for average of 8 days .Forty eight percent cases were delivered by caesarean section. Seventy eight percent babies were live born .There were twelve stillbirths and five neonatal deaths .Twenty percent cases had mild and transient side effects related to labetalol. Conclusion:The effective control of blood pressure with the use of Labetalol in the dosage used ,was observed in less than fifty percent cases of moderate to severe pregnancy induced hypertension.

Growth and Sporulation of Nematophagus Fungus Nematoctonus Robustus on Different Media at Different Temperatures.

Nematode trapping fungi captured nematode by forming different types of structure in a way to get supplement of nitrogen from the nematode, just like carnivorous plants. Fungal parasites of nematodes are broadly classified as either predaceous or endoparasitic. The genus Nematoctonus is unique in that some species are endoparasitic and some species are predaceous by established criteria. The generic diagnosis for Nematoctonus was given by Dreschsler that one assimilative hyphae which is hyaline, more or less branched, developing within minute living animals. Growth and sporulation of N.robustus was significantly varied with different temperature on corn meal agar medium. It is evident from results showing the effect of temperature on the biology of N.robustus that 200C was most optimum temperature for both growth and sporulation. With increase in the temperature there is increase in radial growth of this fungus but correspondingly there s decrease in sporulation.

Morphological Characterization and Mass Production of Nematophagous Fungus Nematoctonus Robustus.

The plant parasitic nematodes infect the root tissues of the plant causing root galls that lead to reduced water and mineral uptake in the plant root system. Nematophagous fungus are used as biocontrol for the nematodes. Among those Nematoctonus are one of the species used as bioagent. Nematoctonus species produces an extensive mycelium and capture many nematodes with hour glass shaped adhesive knobs on the hyphae. Nematodes become attached to these adhesive knobs and the cuticle of nematode is penetrated by the infective hyphae. This isolate of Nematoctonus robustus is characterized by hyaline mycelium, dikaryotic in nature containing genetically two different nuclei in each cell, having distinct clamp connection. The fungus has better colonizing ability on natural solid substrates like wheat straw and rice straw. It also show good ability to colonize on different cereal grains and various other waste products like coconut coir and FYM etc. This species is one of the best used for mass production and effective for control of plant parasitic nematodes.

Urolithiasis prevalence and related factors in a rural area of Manipur.

Background: Urolithiasis is the third most common urological disease. The prevalence is on the rise due to various changes in the socio-demographic and other etiological factors in the north-eastern states of India in general and Manipur in particular. Aims & Objective: The study was conducted to determine the prevalence of urinary stones and to assess the association between urolithiasis and selected variables of interest. Material and Methods: The study was conducted during September 2008 to August 2010 among wetland dwellers of Loktak Lake in Thanga, a rural area of Manipur. A representative sample of subjects, which included men and women 15 years of age and above were included in the study. Sample size was calculated based on a prevalence rate of 5.41% with an allowable error of 1.5 at 95% confidence level. Calculated sample size was 875. A pre-tested interview schedule was used for data collection. Results: A total of 875 individuals were studied. The prevalence rate of urolithiasis was 196(22.40%) and was more commonly present in the age group of 25-44 years. Urolithiasis was observed to be significantly more common among those individuals who are more educated, engaged in heavy work, with history of urinary tract infection (UTI), with history of stressful events in recent years, among those who consumed only 2-4 glasses of water per day and with family history of stones. Conclusion: Prevalence of urolithiasis was observed to be 196(22.4%). Information regarding the risk factors which have been identified in the present study can be utilized in formulating future health plans for preventive services.

An Interesting Case of Meckel-Gruber Syndrome.

Meckel-Gruber syndrome, also known as ‘Dysencephalia splanchnocystica’, is a rare lethal autosomal recessive disorder consisting of central nervous system malformation- mainly posterior encephalocele (80%), multicystic kidneys (95%) and polydactyly (75%). Besides the classic triad of neural tube defects, polydactyly and cystic dysplasia of the kidneys, other abnormalities can occur in association with the syndrome, which may be detected sonographically include micrognathia, cardiac abnormalities, syndactyly, clinodactyly and clubbed foot. We report a case of a 26-year-old woman with previous LSCS referred from a private practitioner with abnormal ultrasonographic findings. She was diagnosed to have Meckel-Gruber syndrome. Woman and her husband were counseled regarding this lethal condition incompatible with life and after proper consent and information, pregnancy was terminated.

Generation of transgenic mesenchymal stem cells expressing green fluorescent protein as reporter gene using no viral vector in caprine.

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) are multipotent cells that can be derived from many different organs and tissues. While there are many ways to label and track cells each with strengths and weakness, the green fluorescent protein (GFP) is a reporter gene commonly employed. In the present study, caprine MSC were collected from bone marrow and cells were characterised with MSC specific markers. Passage 10 (P10) MSC cells were transfected using plasmid vector containing GFP as reporter gene with different concentrations of DNA and lipofectamine. Six different concentrations of DNA and lipofectamine as 1 µg DNA: 2 µL lipofectamine, 1 µg DNA: 2.5 µL lipofectamine, 1.2 µg DNA: 2.2 µL lipofectamine, 1.2 µg DNA: 2.5 µL lipofectamine, 1.5 µg DNA: 2.5 µL lipofectamine, 1.5 µg DNA: 3 µL lipofectamine were used. After 24 h and 48 h of transfection, caprine MSC were observed under florescent microscope. Highest transfection rate indicating green flourecscent MSC were found when the cells were transfected with 1.2 µg DNA: 2.2 µL lipofectamine and 1.5 µg DNA: 2.5 µL lipofectamine than other combinations. These cells have been propagated beyond 4th passage maintaining GFP expression. The results indicated that stable GFP positive MSC cells can be generated using the above protocol. These cells are being used for transplantation studies.

Prevalence and aetiology of anaemia in lymphoid malignancies.

Background. We prospectively studied the prevalence, type and causes of anaemia in newly diagnosed patients with lymphoid malignancies. Methods. Between January 2007 and June 2008, a total of 316 newly diagnosed, consecutive patients (aged 15 years or above) of Hodgkin lymphoma, non-Hodgkin lymphoma and chronic lymphocytic leukaemia with anaemia (haemoglobin <11 g/dl), were analysed to determine the prevalence and a subgroup of 46 patients was analysed for the cause of anaemia. Results. Hodgkin lymphoma, non-Hodgkin lymphoma and chronic lymphocytic leukaemia were the diagnoses in 81 (25.8%), 203 (64.7%) and 30 (9.6%) patients, respectively. Anaemia was present in 134 patients (42.4%). Anaemia of chronic disease was present in 33/46 (71.7%) and iron deficiency in 18/46 (39.1%) patients. Vitamin B12 and/or folate deficiency was detected in 10/46 (21.7%) patients (B12 deficiency alone in 7, folate deficiency alone in 1 and combined B12 and folate deficiency in 2). Autoimmune haemolytic anaemia was detected in 5/46 (10.9%) although direct Coombs test was positive in 17/46 (37%) patients. Among patients with Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, anaemia due to bone marrow involvement was present in 16/40 (40%). In most patients with bone marrow involvement, anaemia was due to other causes. In only 3 patients, anaemia was attributable to bone marrow involvement alone. Anaemia was multifactorial in 18/46 (39.1%) patients. Nutritional deficiency alone or in combination was present in 22/46 (47.8%) patients. Conclusion. Anaemia is common in lymphoid malignancies at initial presentation. Besides managing anaemia of chronic disease and bone marrow involvement, nutritional and autoimmune causes should be ruled out.

Insecticide susceptibility status of Phlebotomus argentipes, a vector of visceral leishmaniasis in different foci in three states of India.

Background & objectives: Phlebotomus argentipes is the vector for visceral leishmaniasis in India. The development of resistance in kala-azar vector to DDT has been reported from various parts of India. The main objective of this study was to generate information on insecticides susceptibility status of P. argentipes to DDT, malathion and deltamethrin in different parts in three states of India. Methods: Phlebotomus argentipes were collected from different villages, identified and used to investigate the susceptibility status against DDT, malathion and deltamethrin as per the WHO standard methods. Results: Phlebotomus argentipes was resistant to DDT in different areas, viz. PHCs Murumgaon in Maharashtra; Ramgarh in Jharkhand; Kodah, Falka, Mahua and Lalganj in Bihar. In Phulwari Shareef PHC of Patna district in Bihar, DDT produced 89% mortality in P. argentipes, indicating resistant/tolerance (verification required) to DDT. The corrected percent mortality to malathion (5%) in different areas ranged between 98 and 100%; and to deltamethrin (0.05%) between 98.4 and 100%. The results showed that the tested P. argentipes are susceptible to malathion and deltamethrin. Conclusion: Phlebotomus argentipes are still susceptible to malathion and deltamethrin, but resistant to DDT. The susceptibility status of P. argentipes should be monitored regularly in diversified situations to ascertain the judicious use of insecticides being used for indoor residual spraying in the programme for rational use of appropriate insecticide.

Remediation of nitrite contamination in ground and surface waters using aquatic macrophytes.

The study was carried out to determine the seasonal variation of nitrite levels in drinking and surface waters of urban, peri-urban and rural areas of Lucknow, during 2007-2008, and to evaluate the nitrite removal and accumulation potential of certain native aquatic macrophytes. Most of the drinking and surface water samples were collected from urbanized region of the city. All drinking water samples detected, showed higher nitrite level in winter, when compared with that in summer and rainy seasons. However, in drinking water samples nitrite level was below the permissible limit i.e. 3.29 mg l-1 NO2. The surface water showed more than 3 fold higher levels of nitrite over the permissible level i.e. 0.06 mg l-1, and the level was higher during rainy season than in summer and winter seasons. Eight macrophytes viz. Peltandra virginica, Utricularia vulgaris, Eichhornia crassipes, Trapa natans, Mimulus glabratus, Marsilea quadrifolia, Pistia stratiotes and Polygonum persicaria were studied for phytoremediation potential of nitrite from the water under simulated laboratory conditions. The gradual diminution in the level of nitrite in the water and simultaneously it’s increase in the plant tissues was recorded at 5th, 10th and 15th d after plant culture. All the plants selected, removed nitrite from water but Polygonum persicaria, Mimulus glabratus, Trapa natans and Pistia stratiotes were found more efficient and removed nitrite upto 60.91, 58.09, 60.97 and 72.28%, respectively. Observations revealed that Pistia stratiotes can be used for the effective removal of nitrite from the contaminated water.

Benzene-induced histopathological changes and germ cell population dynamics in testes of Sprague Dawley rats.

Benzene has been considered as an occupational hematotoxin and leukemogen. The present study was conducted to determine the effects of oral administration of benzene on reproductive organs and testicular spermatogenesis in rats. Adult rats were divided into three weight matched groups (Gr. I-III) containing 6 each. Gr. I rats received vehicle only and served as control. Rats in Gr. II and III were fed orally with 0.5 and 1 ml kg-1 dose of benzene for 14 and 9 days, respectively and autopsy was done on 15th and 10th day. Food and water intake and gross behavioral changes were recorded daily during the entire treatment. Results showed no significant change in reproductive organ weights viz. testis, epididymis and ventral prostate in benzene-treated (0.5 or 1 ml kg-1) rats than that in controls. But, caused a significant decrease (p<0.005) in weights of seminal vesicles in rats treated with both 0.5 and 1 ml kg-1 doses compared to control. In contrast, at higher dose (1 ml kg-1) of benzene, significant (p<0.001) decline in body weight and 100% mortality was observed on day 10 of autopsy. In treated rats, testicular cytotoxicity was marked by multinucleated giant cells formation, cytoplasmic vacuolization, pyknosis of nuclei, chromatolysis, desquamation and dissolution of germ cells in tubular lumen. The quantitative analysis of spermatogenesis showed a significant (p<0.001) decrease in number of A-spermatogonia (in 1 ml kg-1 dose only), primary spermatocytes (non-pachytene and pachytene) and spermatids (round and elongated) in treated as compared to control rats. The diameters of testicular tubules and Leydig cells nuclei were also significantly (p<0.001) reduced in treated rats. A steady loss in food and water intake recorded and signs of ill health were observed in treated (0.5 or 1 ml kg-1) rats. Results of the study indicated antitesticular /antispermatogenic effects of benzene at 0.5 and 1 ml kg-1 dose in rats.

Situation Analysis of Malaria in Godda District of Jharkhand During Malaria Epidemic.

The epidemiological and entomological investigations were carried out in 18 tribal villages of Godda district of Jharkhand state revealed average slide positivity rate (SPR) 9.9% and slide positivity rate for Plasmodium falciparum (SfR) 5.0%, respectively. P. falciparum was the dominant parasite accounting 51.2 per cent of the total infections. All the villages are situated in the deep forest and forest fringes. A total of 416 blood slides were collected and examined. Out of which 41 slides were found positive for malaria parasite (21 positive for P. falciparum and 20 positive for P. vivax). All the positive cases were treated with Blister Packs of anti-malarial of chloroquine and primaquine as per NBVDCP schedule to prevent further transmission of malaria, which were available. Rapid diagnostic Kits were used selectively only on the recommendation of the Physician/Medical Officer. Results of house to house fever survey indicated the presence of high percentage of symptomatic carriers of malaria parasites in the local population and in our study Pf % is more than reported data by District Malaria Office, Godda district, Jharkhand. In entomological studies, for mosquito fauna with reference to both Anopheline, 11 species belonging to one genus Anopheles were collected and identified during the survey; among them some species were most prevalent. A total of 599 mosquitoes were recorded and average density of mosquitoes recorded was 13.19 in human dwellings and 86.11 in cattle sheds.