INDIAN JOURNAL OF PHYSIOLOGY AND ALLIED SCIENCES

Determination of immunogenicity following anti-rabies vaccination in elephants (Elephas maximus maximus) of Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Sri Lanka: A proposal

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Rabies is a vaccine-preventable fatal viral disease, which affects both domestic and wild mammals. The main reservoir species of rabies in Sri Lanka is dogs. Elephants, being mammals, are also susceptible to rabies but, no detailed controlled study has been done concerning anti-rabies immunogenicity. This research project focuses on determining the pattern of immunogenicity in both routinely vaccinated and zero-positive Sri Lankan elephants following anti-rabies vaccination (ARV). 30 easily accessible elephants from the Pinnawala elephant orphanage will be used as the routinely vaccinated group of elephants. This group of elephants will be randomly allocated into two groups (n=15 elephants each) a year after the initial anti-rabies vaccination. Two previously unvaccinated calves will be selected as the zero-positive control group of the study, and they will be allocated into two groups (A, B). All elephants will be immunized using 1ml of ARV while elephants in zero positive control group B will be immunized using 2ml of ARV as the first dose. A blood sample will be collected before vaccination in all elephants. Post-vaccination blood samples will be collected on planned dates from the different study groups. Sample analysis of the study will be done by FAVN test and ELISA.

Pathophysiology of neurodegenerative disease and available treatments: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Snehal Ahire, Ankita Deo, Sayali Marathe, Tania Bose — Mon, 30 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Amyotrophic lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is an adult-onset neurogenerative disease. It affects the motor neurons resulting in muscle weakness and causing death of the patient. Multiple factors like genetic, environmental, as well as age involved in the etiopathogenesis of ALS. ALS is a highly complex and equally challenging disease that involves various pathogenesis linked with progressive motor neuron degeneration, it is difficult to have a single therapeutic target against the disease. Till date only a few drugs have been FDA-approved, while many are still under clinical trials. Hence reducing the number of viable treatment options. Some drugs like Riluzole, Tafamidis, and Edaravon are the only drugs given to ALS patients. As data suggest, these drugs exceed the lifespan of ALS patients by only a few months, but are unable to treat ALS permanently. In this review, we are discussing the pathophysiology mechanism and the presently available drug treatment for the pathophysiology of ALS. All the data are collected from PubMed open sources

The practice of humanistic healing: Physicians’ journey through time

Bharti Bhandari, Prerna Agarwal, Shridhar Dwivedi — Mon, 30 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Humanistic healing is an integrative approach to health and wellness that prioritizes the individual’s subjective experience and inherent potential for growth, aligning closely with the principles of humanistic psychology. This approach considers the interplay between physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects of health, aiming to restore balance and harmony. Indian culture has consistently valued and upheld the duty of helping those in need. Since ancient times, many renowned works in Sanskrit have emphasized the importance of benevolent acts. Keeping in line with the existing principles, since ancient times, the emphasis was not just on therapeutic care but on promotive and preventive health care as suggested by ancient Indian scriptures like Sushruta and Charak Samhita. In the past, communication skills, empathy, compassion, and preventive and holistic approaches to treatment have been reinforced during each era worldwide. One of the quotes of Sir William Osler’s ‘One of the first duties of the physician is to educate the masses not to take medicine’ is more relevant in the current scenario where rampant use of medicine has become a norm. As per NMC, the Goal of UG Medical Education Program is to produce an “Indian Medical Graduate” (IMG) possessing requisite knowledge, skills, attitudes, values and responsiveness so that she or he may function appropriately and effectively as a physician of first contact of the community while being globally relevant. To fulfill this goal, the NMC has defined certain roles for the IMG -namely clinician, communicator, leader, member of a health care team, life-long learner and professional.
In this review, we have focussed on the humanistic qualities of a physician that existed in the past and are also evident in the present. It has also highlighted the importance of self-care and pursuing interest beyond medicine among physicians, along with the attributes a physician should possess in the current scenario

Cord and peripheral blood mononuclear cell analysis by scanning electron microscopy and flow cytometry

Sayak Manna, Tapan K Naskar, Sujata Law — Mon, 30 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Umbilical cord blood is a rich source of hematopoietic cells, which vary in phenotypic expressions from that of adult
peripheral blood. Our study focused on differences in fresh and fixed cell populations isolated from umbilical cord and adult peripheral blood using flow cytometric analysis and high-resolution scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
Methods: Adult peripheral blood (PB) and cord blood (CB) was collected from individuals from Kolkata. Our study emphasised on the
differences in fresh and fixed cord and peripheral blood samples through forward and side scattering of flow cytometer and without any surface antigens. We also studied the morphological variations of both the cord and peripheral MNC using SEM images.
Results: The flow cytometric analysis of whole cord blood and isolated cord MNC showed significant differences in counts when
compared to adults in both fresh and fixed samples. Our SEM images indicated similar morphological features in cord leucocytes when compared to adult leucocytes. It was also observed presence of reticulocytes in SEM analysis only in cord MNC as compared to adult.
Conclusion: Our study demonstrates the effectiveness of flow cytometry for analysing cellular populations in cord and adult peripheral blood, without requiring antigen markers. Additionally, our SEM analysis provides some insights on the morphology of mononuclear cells from CB and PB sources, enhancing our understanding of normal cellular dynamics in the regenerative medicine domain.

Procalcitonin: Study of its efficacy as a potent biomarker in non-sepsis bacterial infection

Asim Kumar Basak, Dipankar Das — Mon, 30 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Background: The calcitonin hormone plays a crucial role in regulating calcium and phosphorus homeostasis. Moreover, during systemic inflammation, particularly in bacterial infections, procalcitonin production occurs in various tissues, such as the lung, liver, kidney, and adipose tissue. This rise of procalcitonin levels becomes detectable as early as 2 to 4 hours post-stimulation, peaking within 6 to 24 hours. This is why, unlike C-reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin is considered the earliest and most stable marker, as its concentration is unaffected by neutropenia, immunodeficiency conditions, and the use of nonsteroidal or steroid anti-inflammatory drugs. However, the reports are mainly based on sepsis-induced bacterial infection. Thereby the aim of the present study was to evaluate the procalcitonin test’s ability to discriminate different bacterial (Non- sepsis) etiology in a large population of patients.
Materials and Methods: This longitudinal observational study was conducted using clinical and routine laboratory data collected from the Clinical Microbiology Unit of the Narayana Multispeciality Hospital, Barasat, Kolkata, from 2nd August 2022 to 15th January 2023, to evaluate the significance of serum biomarker C reactive protein, total leucocyte count, and procalcitonin test in early detection of bacterial infection.
Result: In the present study, it was observed that the prevalence of elevated procalcitonin levels is higher with the gram-negative bacterial infection, especially among Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae, in comparison to the gram-positive bacterial infected population.

Pollen calendar and aero-allergens of Berhampore town, Murshidabad district

Ankush Pal — Mon, 30 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Pollen calendars and allergic pollen studies are crucial in understanding the timing and distribution of allergic pollen in a specific region. By studying pollen calendars and allergenic pollen, researchers can identify peak pollen periods and regions, develop targeted treatment strategies and enhanced public awareness and education. Methods: Pollen sampling is done using traps or collectors, and the data is analyzed to create a calendar showing the peak pollen periods. Results: To identity the timing and duration of the pollen release, helping allergy sufferers, researchers and healthcare professionals. Discussion: Pollen calendars and aero allergence data can inform personalized treatment plans for allergy sufferers. To identify areas for further research, like developing novel treatments or exploring new diagnostic methods. Interpretation: by interpreting pollen calendars and aero allergence, we can better understand and address pollen allergies, ultimately improving the lights of those affected.

Impact of six weeks of athletic training on body composition, physical fitness, and physiological determinants of short-distance runners

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Background: The present study has been designed to investigate the effects of six weeks of training on body composition, physical fitness, and physiological determinants of short-distance runners. Methods: A total of 75 male volunteers (age: 18–20 years) were included in this study, among them fifteen were excluded. The rest sixty volunteers were divided into: (i) the control group (CG, n = 30) and (ii) the experimental group (EG, n = 30). The volunteers of EG underwent a training programme (4 hours/day, 5 days/week, for 6 weeks), and the volunteers of CG were involved in recreational activities. Selected performance determinants were determined at the base line and after six week of study. Results and Discussion: A significant increase (p < 0.05) in LBM, strength of grip, back, leg, upper body, abdomen muscles, anaerobic power, explosive power of legs, flexibility, VO2max, FEV1, FVC, and PEFR; and a decrease (p < 0.05) in body fat percentage, 30 m sprint time, resting blood pressure, heart rate response during exercise and recovery, and peak blood lactate level were noted among the participants of EG following the intervention. The changes observed were due to the effects of training among the sprinters. Interpretation: The present study showed that six weeks of training had a significant impact on selected body composition, physical fitness, and physiological variables of the short-distance runners, which are related to their performance. Extensive research is needed on a large sample size to observe the effects of long-term training on performance determinants of the short-distance runners.

Simultaneous blockade of TLR4 and TNFR1 attenuates TLR2 sensitivity in LPS-stimulated macrophages through TNFR2-mediated pathway

Biswadev Bishayi, Rajen Dey, Rituparna Ghosh, Mehak Kanwar — Mon, 30 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Recent studies have found TLR2 to be a significant player in initiating immune responses in the host during bacterial infection. Macrophage polarization is one of the vital factors in the amelioration of sepsis. It is well established that recognition and binding of LPS with cell surface TLR4 could induce the production of a wide array of pro-inflammatory cytokines that initiate an organism’s inflammatory responses. Recent studies claimed that augmented expression of TLR2 shows better responsiveness to LPS, thus increasing its affinity to the ligand. Objectives: Our study attempts to demonstrate the underlying mechanisms of how TLR2 sensitivity is altered during the simultaneous blocking of TLR4 and TNFR1 and how TLR2 contributes towards the phenotypic switching of macrophages. We were also interested to see whether blocking TLR4, in any way, affects the LPS/TLR2 interactions and influences some major cytokine receptors. Materials and Methods: Murine peritoneal macrophages (5×106 cells/ml) were pre-treated with TLR4 and TNFR1 antibody (alone or in combination) and then stimulated with LPS for 60 min. FACS analyses were performed to determine M1 and M2 polarized cell populations. Assays from the cell-free supernatant determined ROS generation, and the activities of antioxidant enzymes were determined from the cell-free lysate. Western blot analysis was used to determine receptor expressions. Results: Our results indicated that blocking both receptors markedly reduced ROS levels due to its scavenging by the elevated antioxidant enzymes. Western blot data confirmed that combinatorial blockade of TLR4 and TNFR1 augmented TLR2 and TNFR2 expression in contrast to the attenuation of IL-1R. Conclusion: Therefore, the regulation of TLR2 expression was found to be TLR4-dependent, and it can show reduced NF-κB activation in response to LPS in TLR4 and TNFR1 blocked macrophages. Moreover, dual blocking can promote M2 polarization by up-regulating TNFR2. This approach could be taken as an alternative therapeutic strategy to treat LPS-sepsis.

Investigation of the impact of a short-term low-carbohydrate paleolithic diet on cardiovascular risk markers

Hariharan V, Vijayasamundeeswari CK — Mon, 30 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Low carbohydrate diets like the Paleolithic diet have caught the attention of the public and medical professionals in their ability for weight loss, and diabetic control among others. However, an important question about their effect on lipid levels and cardiovascular risk has not been answered enough. Aims: Our study aimed to observe the impact of a short-term Low-carbohydrate Paleolithic diet on Lipids such as low-density lipoprotein (LDL), High-density lipoprotein (HDL), Triglycerides (TAG) and cardiovascular risk markers such as Apolipoprotein A1 (ApoA1) and Apolipoprotein-B (ApoB). Materials and methods: This is a 3-month study involving 106 participants who were attending our hospital OPD for various health issues and were studied and tested before and after a diet intervention. The diet prescribed is a low carbohydrate Paleolithic diet having a protein, Carbohydrate and fat ratio around 15:20:65 and are regularly followed for compliance. Results: After three months, it was seen that this diet has significantly decreased Triglycerides (p=0.001); significantly increased LDL (p=0.0009), HDL (p=0.005) and ApoA1 (p=0.01); whereas there was no change in ApoB levels, ApoB/ApoA1 ratio and LDL/ApoB ratio. Conclusion: A short-term Low carbohydrate paleolithic diet is not pro-atherogenic but it favorably alters lipid profile and cardiac markers thereby reducing the risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD).

The relationship between depression, anxiety, and stress levels and sleep quality in diabetic patients: A quantitative study utilizing DASS-42 and PSQI questionnaires

Kashif Ali, Aliya Mufti, Nadeem Raza, Gaurav Sharma — Mon, 30 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Diabetes mellitus, a chronic metabolic disorder, is often associated with various psychological conditions such as depression, anxiety, and stress. The interplay between these psychological factors and sleep quality can further complicate disease management and patient outcomes. This study aims to evaluate the relationship between psychological distress, assessed using the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS-42), and sleep quality, measured by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), in diabetic patients with HbA1c levels above 6.5%. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in a tertiary care hospital in India. A total of 150 diabetic patients with HbA1c > 6.5% were recruited. Psychological distress was evaluated using the DASS-42 questionnaire, which measures depression, anxiety, and stress. Sleep quality was assessed using the PSQI questionnaire. The correlation between DASS-42 scores and PSQI scores was analysed using Pearson’s correlation coefficient, and statistical significance was determined by the p-value. Results: The study findings indicated a significant positive correlation between the DASS-42 total scores and PSQI scores, suggesting that higher levels of psychological distress are associated with poorer sleep quality in diabetic patients. Specifically, Pearson’s correlation coefficient was found to be 0.56 (p < 0.01), demonstrating a moderate correlation. Further analysis revealed that all three subscales of the DASS-42 (depression, anxiety, and stress) were individually correlated with poor sleep quality, with stress showing the strongest correlation (r = 0.62, p < 0.01). Conclusion: The study emphasise the significant association between psychological distress and sleep quality in diabetic patients. Given the moderate positive correlation observed, it is imperative for healthcare providers to consider psychological evaluations and interventions as part of comprehensive diabetes management. Addressing psychological issues may not only improve sleep quality but also potentially enhance overall disease outcomes. Further research is warranted to explore the causal relationships and potential therapeutic interventions.

Low back pain among hospital nurses: the interplay of underlying factors

Upasana Chowdhury, Tamal Das, Sahana Mazumder, Somnath Gangopadhyay — Mon, 30 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Background. Low back pain (LBP) is a wide-reaching phenomenon among nurses. In a country like India, the scenario is not different although the prevalence of multiple causal factors and their consequences on nurses has yet to be convincingly demonstrated. Objective. This study examined the relationship between LBP and other causative variables in female registered nurses in West Bengal, India. Methods. With the multiphase sampling method, subjects with LBP and subjects without discomfort were chosen using the Modified Nordic Questionnaire. Among the final study subjects the Physical Activity Level (PAL) and Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire (COPSOQ) were performed. The daily nursing activities were analysed using the Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) tool. The correlation analyses and χ2 tests were performed using SPSS version 23 software. Results. Few Demand scales and Role Conflict scale were found to be strongly related to LBP. Among the daily tasks analyzed two activities showed high-risk scores, indicating immediate investigation and ten activities showed medium risk. Conclusion. This study showed the connection between various psychosocial variables and LBP as well as the risk-prone body postures that nurses adopt when performing routine jobs. Investigating the intricate interaction of variables that may impact or promote LBP in Indian nurses is crucial.

Role of educational technology in the implementation of NEP 2020 in physical education

Pankaja Pandey, Hiralal Yadav — Mon, 30 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The National Education Policy (NEP) is a significant educational development that India has been anxiously anticipating. The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 is a significant milestone in modern education policy as it supersedes the National Policy on Education (NPE) of 1986. The implementation of this initiative results in significant transformations within the school system, as well as in the field of teacher education. One notable transformation is to the restructuring of the school system, which is accompanied by a corresponding alteration in teacher education. The phenomenon of convergence may give rise to certain challenges that need a more scholarly approach in addressing them. Over the last decade, the use of educational technology in training and teaching techniques has significantly transformed the field of sports training and physical education. The present state of our education system necessitates the use and improvement of educational technology in order to effectively execute the National Education Policy (NEP) of 2020. The policy guidelines of the NEP provide a comprehensive roadmap for its implementation. However, it is important to note that the policy also presents inherent obstacles, although without expressly articulating them. This study examines many elements that influence the adoption of an application, including ICT difficulties, scalability, the transition from conventional to digital classroom delivery, the effect on pedagogy, and obstacles encountered during the early phases of development. This paper examines the challenges posed by global technological trends and their implications for the education system, particularly in relation to the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP). The successful achievement of accessibility and equity, which are crucial for reaching millions of Indians, hinges upon effectively addressing the challenges discussed herein.