Showing papers in "Indian journal of physiology and pharmacology in 2015"

Role of Vitamin-D in the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer's disease.

Abstract: Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of age related cognitive impairment. Aim of the present study was to see the effect of vitamin D on cognitive function in elderly. The study was conducted in Department of Physiology, King George's Medical University (KGMU). A total of 80 subjects were enrolled based on Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) score < 24 and vitamin D deficiency. They were divided into two groups as Group A (case) and Group B (control), each group having 40 subjects. Intervention (Vitamin D supplementation) was given in Group A. The assessment of dementia was done by Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) score. Every subject was clinically evaluated and estimation of vitamin D was done by direct ELISA kit. Gender, weight, height, BMI, residence and education were also similar between two groups. A significant (p=0.0001) change in MMSE score was observed in both Group A and Group B from baseline to 3 & 6 months and from 3 to 6 months, however, mean change was higher in Group A than Group B. In conclusion, vitamin D supplementation caused significant improvement in the cognitive performance in subjects with senile dementia.

Effects of Hydroalcoholic Extract of Watercress (Nasturtium Officinale) Leaves on Serum Glucose and Lipid Levels in Diabetic Rats.

Abstract: Objective: Hyperlipidemia is a known complication of diabetes mellitus and predisposes to coronary heart disease. The lowering of total cholesterol and low density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol should reduce the incidence of coronary disease. The aim of the present study was to examine the antihyperlipidemic and antidiabetic effects of the hydroalcoholic extract of watercress (Nasturtium officinale) leaves in streptozotocininduced diabetic rats. Methods: Female Wistar rats were randomly divided into 4 groups: control, diabetic and diabetic rats treated with the extract of watercress (Nasturtium officinale) at doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg. Diabetic rats received the watercress extract daily in drinking water for 4 weeks since the day after diabetes confirmation. The levels of serum glucose and lipids were spectrophotometrically measured in all groups at weeks 0 (before diabetes induction), 2 and 4. Results: There was a significant increase in serum glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol, and LDLcholesterol in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats, accompanied by a decrease in high density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol. The treatment of diabetic rats with hydroalcoholic extract of watercress (Nasturtium officinale) leaves over a 4-week period significantly reduced serum glucose, total cholesterol and LDLcholesterol in comparison with diabetic untreated rats. Conclusion: Our findings demonstrated that a 4-week treatment with watercress extract at a dose of 200 mg/kg has hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effects in streptozotocin-diabetic rats. This implies that the consumption of watercress leaves can be helpful in reducing the complications of hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia associated with diabetes.

Antioxidant effect of aqueous extract of sumac (Rhus coriaria L.) in the alloxan-induced diabetic rats.

Abstract: In this experimental study, 30 adult male Wistar rats divided into 5 groups (n=6). Experimental rats were treated with one intraperitoneal injection of 120 mg/kgbw Alloxan monohydrate alone or in combination with 28 days of oral administration with aqueous extract of Rhus coriaria (50, 100 and 250 mg/kgbw) while the control rats received normal saline. At the end of the study, blood glucose, malondialdehyde concentration and catalase activities of kidney and liver tissues were determined. Treatment with Rhus coriaria extract resulted in a significant reduction in blood glucose, and the liver and kidney tissue contents of malondialdehyde in comparison to diabetic group (P<0.05). Furthermore, diabetic group treated with extract showed a significant increase in catalase activities of the liver and kidney (P<0.05). The present study showed that Rhus coriaria could be effective in decreasing diabetic complication and this effect is attributed to the antioxidant activity of the plant.

Controlled Vestibular Stimulation, Standardization Of A Physiological Method To Release Stress In College Students.

Abstract: The present study was designed to standardize optimal vestibular stimulation and to investigate its impact on anxiety levels in college students. Vestibular stimulation was achieved by swinging on a swing (Back to front direction) and the participants were advised to adjust frequency, duration and intensity, according to comfort. Frequency, intensity and duration were recorded manually. The anxiety status was assessed by using Spielberger state-trait anxiety inventory (STAI) before and after vestibular stimulation. It has been observed that the anxiety status was significantly decreased after vestibular stimulation. There is a need for future study with larger sample size to substantiate the therapeutic validity of vestibular stimulation as a physiological treatment for stress relief and stress related disorders among college students.

Association of ABO blood group and breast cancer in Jodhpur.

Abstract: There is a large amount of evidence that the ABO blood group system may play a role in disease etiology. However, in relation to breast cancer, these findings are inconsistent and contradictory. Present study was conducted for analysis to access ABO blood groups potential role of in breast carcinoma. The study was conducted on 206 clinically diagnosed breast cancer patients from Radiotherapy Department of Mathura Das Mathur Hospital in Jodhpur, from September 2006 to December 2007. The standard agglutination test was used to determine the blood groups. Association of ABO blood groups and risk of breast cancers was found out with Odd Ratios (ORs) with 95% Confidence Interval (CI). In reference of proportion of breast cancer in blood group AB [OR 1 with 95% CI 0.476 to 2.103), the breast carcinoma in blood group A [OR 7.444 with 95% CI 4.098 to 13.5222) was found at 7.4 times at higher risk than in blood group 'AB'. Breast cancer was found minimum in blood group 'AB' and maximum in blood group 'A'.

Holy basil (Ocimum sanctum Linn.) leaf extract enhances specific cognitive parameters in healthy adult volunteers: A placebo controlled study

Abstract: Introduction: Ocimum sanctum (OS), known as Holy basil, has been documented to possess neuroprotective, cognition-enhancing and stress relieving effects in animal models. However there is paucity of clinical studies to document these effects. Materials and methods: Effect of OS on parameters related to cognition and stress in humans was evaluated with administration of 300 milligram capsules of ethanolic leaf extracts of Ocimum sanctum (EtOS) or placebo per day, over 30 days. Results: Intra-group comparison of Sternberg and Stroop test showed improvement in both the placebo and EtOS groups, however, the improvement stabilized after day 15 in the placebo group. Intergroup comparison revealed a significant improvement of the following cognitive parameters in the EtOS as compared to the placebo: reaction time (RT) and error rate (ER) of Sternberg test, RT of neutral task of Stroop, RT and ER of interference task of Stroop. The intra-group comparison of P300 latency, salivary cortisol, and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory showed improvement over time in the EtOS group alone, though the inter-group difference was significant in the P300 latency alone. There were no changes in heart rate (HR), ΔHR, or galvanic skin response (GSR) or ΔGSR. Conclusion: Ocimum sanctum leaf extract seems to have potential cognition-enhancing properties in humans.

Autonomic Functions In Raja-yoga Meditators.

Abstract: Stress, an inevitable and constant feature throughout the lifetime, induces autonomic dysfunctions, for which meditation is considered to be an antidote. So the case control study was planned including 50 Raja-yoga meditators practicing meditation for 5 years and 50 age matched non-meditators. Autonomic function tests were performed and results were compared using the Student-t test. Mean values of resting HR, SBP and DBP were less in meditators. Galvanic Skin Response in meditators was significantly more (p < 0.001). Mean increase BP response to Hand Grip Test and Cold Pressor Test was significantly less in meditators than non-meditators (p < 0.001). Standing: Lying ratio, Valsalva ratio, Inspiration: Expiration ratio and 30:15 ratios were significantly increased in meditators than non-meditators. From the results, there was shifting of the autonomic balance to parasympathetic side in Raja-yoga meditators, which suggests its utility to combat the ill effects of stress.

Effect of Dual-tasking on Visual and Auditory Simple Reaction Times.

Abstract: Visual and auditory simple reaction times were measured in Sri Lankan young adults to see the effect of dual-tasking on reaction time. Reaction times were measured using a reaction time program in a computer. Subjects responded to stimuli by pressing the spacebar with their dominant index finger. Visual and auditory simple reaction times (ms) in males (mean ± SD) were 293.5 ± 42.4, 302.2 ± 41.9 respectively. In females respective values were 315.1 ± 55.5, 313.1 ± 45. Males had statistically significant faster reaction times (p 0.05) within the same sex. Dual-tasking significantly increases (p < 0.05) both reaction times in both sexes. In females, dual-tasking affects simple auditory reaction time significantly more than simple visual reaction time (p < 0.05).

Heart rate variability changes during stroop color and word test among genders.

Abstract: Stress is the reaction of the body to a change that requires physical, mental or emotional adjustments. Individual differences in stress reactivity are a potentially important risk factor for gender-specific health problems in men and women. The Autonomic regulation of the cardiovascular system is most commonly affected by stress and is assessed by means of short term heart rate variability (HRV).The present study was undertaken to investigate the difference in the cardiovascular Autonomic Nervous System response to mental stress between the genders using HRV as tool. We compared the mean RR interval, Blood pressure and indices of HRV during the StroopColor Word Test (SCWT).Twenty five male (Age 19.52±0.714, BMI 22.73±2 kg/m2) and twenty five female subjects (Age 19.80±0.65, BMI 22.39±1.9) performed SCWT for five minutes. Blood Pressure (SBP p<0.01, DBP p<0.042) & Mean HR (p<0.010) values showed statistically significant difference among the genders. HRV indices like LFms2 (p<0.051), HF nu (p<0.029) and LF/HF ratio (p<0.025, p<0.052) show statistically significant difference among the genders. The response by the cardiovascular system to a simple mental stressor exhibits difference among the genders.

Assessment of Cardiovascular Autonomic Functions and Baroreceptor Reactivity in Women with Premenstrual Syndrome.

Abstract: Objectives The study was conducted to assess the autonomic status of women with mild PMS using short-term heart rate variability (HRV) analysis and conventional autonomic function tests (CAFT). Methods Sixty females in the age group 17-25 years with mild premenstrual syndrome were identified using a self-report questionnaire, the shortened premenstrual assessment form. HRV and CAFTs were recorded 1- 5 days prior and 8-10 days after menstruation. Results The subjects showed a significant increase in HR and SBP in luteal phase. In HRV, an increase in mean HR and LF-HF ratio were seen in the luteal phase whereas an increase in the NN50, RMSSD and pNN50, HF, HF(nu) and TP were seen in the follicular phase. In CAFT, no change in HRB, 30:15 and El I ratios but increase in ?DBP(ihg) in the luteal phase was seen. Conclusion The increase in HR and SBP in the luteal phase could be because increased water and salt retention due to the ovarian steroids. A decrease in HRV, increase in ?DBPihg with no change in 30:15 ratio in the luteal phase could be attributed to delayed withdrawal of ovarian hormones in the luteal phase.

Evaluation of arterial stiffness in elderly with prehypertension.

Abstract: Arterial stiffness is an independent marker of cardiovascular (CV) risk that increases with age. Hypertension is known to augment the age-related arterial stiffness. The influence of prehypertension on arterial stiffness in elderly is least studied. The present study was aimed to assess the age-associated arterial stiffness in the elderly subjects with prehypertension. A cross sectional study was conducted on elderly subjects aged 60-80 years with prehypertension (n=25) and age-matched normotensives (n=20). The arterial stiffness was assessed by measuring: (1) Pulse wave velocity between carotid-femoral (c-f PWV) and brachial-ankle (baPWV) (2) Augmentation index (AIx) and (3) Arterial stiffness index (ASI) at brachial (bASI) and tibial artery (aASI). We found a significant increase in c-f PWV (p<0.001), baPWV (p<0.001) and AIx@75 (p<0.001) in prehypertensives than normotensive elderly individuals. There was no significant difference in the ASI at brachial and tibial arteries. The significant predictor of c-f PWV and Alx@75 was SBP (β=0.584, p=0.04; β=0.700, p=0.019 respectively), and aASI was PP (β=0.493, p=0.049). These findings show an augmentation of age-related arterial stiffness in elderly with prehypertension.

Mobile Phone Radiation: Physiological & Pathophysiologcal Considerations.

Abstract: It is documented that electromagnetic emissions from mobile phones can interfere with brain's signal processing activity due to their oscillatory similitude to the inherent rhythms of the brain, akin to "electromagnetic interference" observed while using mobile phones in aeroplanes. At high power density levels, thermal effects occur, some of which can be attributed to heat induced stress mechanisms. The less understood non-thermal effects occur at low radio frequency/microwave power density levels and are not accompanied by any body temperature rise. The safety standards set by international agencies are based on thermal effects. For the mobile phones, ICNIRP 1998 guidelines restrict spatial peak of microwave exposure to 2 W/Kg SAR values averaged over 10 g of tissue for 6 minutes. Some of the reported electromagnetic radiation (EMR) induced adverse effects are brain tumours, male infertility and immune dysfunction with increased susceptibility to infections. Pathophysiological mechanisms of interaction of EMR at plasma membrane are calcium efflux from cell membranes, increased expression of stress proteins, influence on channels/gap junctions in cell membrane, overproduction of reactive oxygen species, ornithine decarboxylase activation, reduction in melatonin levels, decrease in protein kinase C activity, damage to DNA and change in gene expression in brain cells and altered blood-brain barrier. There are equal number of conflicting reports in literature regarding EMR exposure and brain tumours. A comprehensive review concludes "overall the studies published to date do not demonstrate an increased risk within approximately 10 years of use for any tumour of the brain or any other head tumour." Another review summarises that there is "enough data to convince that long-term exposure to low intensity EMR below the ICNIRP guidelines can promote cancer development". However the time limit for exposure has been suggested as more than 10 years. For conducting epidemiological studies, some of the difficulties experienced are obtaining unexposed controls or cohorts, follow up of the cohorts, actual dose measurement for exposure assessment in case-control studies, inaccuracy, recall bias and selective non response in recall of phone use by mobile phone users, long induction times, long latencies (the effects we observe now are of analogue phones that are no longer used ) and the rarity of observed malignancies, variable ways of using the phone by the user i.e. left or right ear, head sets/speaker/blue tooth etc. Large-scale epidemiological studies should employ personal MW dosimeters for strict dose measurement and for interpreting actual tissue exposure.

Individual Alpha Frequency (IAF) Based Quantitative EEG Correlates of Psychological Stress.

Abstract: Objectives To explore the EEG changes associated with psychological stress state. Methods The study was conducted on 34 healthy male student volunteers. The intervention consisted of psychological stress, which was induced by asking the participants to play a pre-decided stressful computer game. Physiological markers of psychological stress were assessed using galvanic skin response (GSR) and heart rate (HR). Electroencephalography (EEG) was recorded from 19 scalp locations according to 10-20 international system of electrode placement. Results Computer game served as model of lab stressor and was associated with a significant increase in physiological markers (GSR & heart rate) of stress response. Psychological stress was associated with increased absolute power in theta, lower 1 alpha and gamma bands & decreased power in upper alpha and beta bands. Lower 2 alpha band power remained unchanged. Conclusions Certain types of computer games serve as a model of lab stressor and are associated with physiological and psychological stress and have unique electroencephalographic correlates. The EEG correlates of mental stress are unique superimposed pattern of various cognitive domains. With sustained and continuing stress resulting from computer game attention, alertness and performance starts declining.

Gender Difference in Fatigue Index and its Related Physiology.

Abstract: Fatigue index exhibits gender difference. This study was carried out to compare fatigue index of young, national level male and female field hockey players; and to explore physiological variables contributing to this difference. We measured running-based anaerobic sprint fatigue index and selected physiological parameters in male and female players matched for age, duration of training, diet, habitual physical activity, body weight and BMI. The male hockey players showed lower resistance to repeated sprints fatigue than the female players. Body weight, BMI and power variables positively correlated to fatigue index in both sexes; while lean body mass and age in males only, and body fat % in females only were found to be correlated to fatigue index. Difference in lean body mass, body fat %, strength and anaerobic power might be responsible for gender difference in intermittent & repeated sprints fatigue index observed in studied players.

Association of Circulating Orexin-A Level With Metabolic Risk Factors in North Indian Pre Menopausal Women.

Abstract: The present study was designed to investigate the association between circulating Orexin-A level with metabolic risk factors in North Indian adult women. 342 women were enrolled for the case-control study, 172 women were with metabolic syndrome (mets) and 170 healthy control women were without metabolic syndrome, (womets) according to (NCEP ATP III criteria). Circulating Orexin-A level was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Observations indicated low levels of orexin-A (26.06 ± 6.09 ng/ml) in women with mets and other metabolic risk factors compared to women without metabolic syndrome (36.50 ± 10.42 ng/ml). Further, in women with metabolic syndrome, circulating Orexin A was significantly associated with waist circumference, triglyceride (negative correlation) and hyperdensity lipoprotein (positive correlation). Our study shows that circulating Orexin A was found to be significantly associated with hyperlipidemia, obesity and obesity-related disorders in North Indian premenopausal women.

Effect of controlled deep breathing on psychomotor and higher mental functions in normal individuals.

Abstract: Objective: The present study was conducted to assess the effect of controlled deep breathing on psychomotor and higher mental functions. Methods: 100 normal healthy subjects (52 females and 48 males, age range - 18 to 25 years) participated in the study. Each subject acted as his or her own control. Six weeks course of controlled deep breathing i.e. 5 seconds of maximal inhalation followed by 5 seconds of maximal exhalation, once a day for ten minutes, six days a week was arranged. (i) Letter cancellation test (ii) Rapid fire arithmetic deviation test and (iii) Playing card test were conducted before and after six weeks of controlled deep breathing practice for evaluating psychomotor and higher mental functions. Results: No significant gender difference was observed on comparing baseline readings between female and male subjects. After six weeks of controlled deep breathing practice letter cancellation test time significantly reduced (P<0.001), rapid fire arithmetic deviation test and playing card test scores (P<0.001) significantly improved. Letter cancellation test score didn’t show improvement. Conclusion: The results suggest that a short, simple breathing practice can be helpful in improving cognitive processes.

Psychometrics of Multiple Choice Questions with Non-Functioning Distracters: Implications to Medical Education

Abstract: OBJECTIVES The functionality of distracters in a multiple choice question plays a very important role. We examined the frequency and impact of functioning and non-functioning distracters on psychometric properties of 5-option items in clinical disciplines. METHODS We analyzed item statistics of 1115 multiple choice questions from 15 summative assessments of undergraduate medical students and classified the items into five groups by their number of non-functioning distracters. We analyzed the effect of varying degree of non-functionality ranging from 0 to 4, on test reliability, difficulty index, discrimination index and point biserial correlation. RESULTS The non-functionality of distracters inversely affected the test reliability and quality of items in a predictable manner. The non-functioning distracters made the items easier and lowered the discrimination index significantly. Three non-functional distracters in a 5-option MCQ significantly affected all psychometric properties (p < 0.5). The corrected point biserial correlation revealed that the items with 3 functional options were psychometrically as effective as 5-option items. CONCLUSIONS Our study reveals that a multiple choice question with 3 functional options provides lower most limit of item format that has adequate psychometric property. The test containing items with less number of functioning options have significantly lower reliability. The distracter function analysis and revision of nonfunctioning distracters can serve as important methods to improve the psychometrics and reliability of assessment.

Salt taste threshold and its relation to blood pressure in normotensive offspring of hypertensive parents amongst indian adolescents

Abstract: To study Salt Taste Threshold (STT) and its relation to Blood pressure (BP) in normotensive adolescents, age and BMI matched 60 subjects of 18-20 years were segregated on basis of family history of hypertension, documented risk factor for development of hypertension. Student's unpaired t-test showed that STT and BP values were significantly higher in Hypertensive offspring group than Control. Pearson Chi Square test with 60 mM Nacl as cut-off point showed highly significant association of STT in hypertensive offspring group. A significant positive correlation was found between STT and BP by Pearson correlation analysis. Family history of hypertension is strongly linked to reduced salt taste sensitivity. This reinforces rationale that both conditions may be genetically linked though causal relation cannot be established. STT can be used as significant marker to screen 'salt sensible' subjects that eventually will develop hypertension and can be advised healthy habits early or prophylactically treated.

Role of AMP-activated Protein Kinase in NO- and EDHF-mediated Endothelium-dependent Relaxations to Red Wine Polyphenols.

Abstract: BACKGROUND Several epidemiological studies have shown that regular consumption of moderate amounts of wine, in particular red wine, is associated with a decreased total mortality due, in part, to a reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases. The protective effect has been attributable to polyphenols, which are potent vasodilators and have anti-thrombotic properties. Polyphenols have been shown to induce pronounced endothelium-dependent relaxations of arteries by causing the redox-sensitive PI3-kinase-dependent formation of nitric oxide (NO) and endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF). The aim of the present study was to determine the role of the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) in the red wine polyphenols (RWPs)-induced endothelial formation of NO and EDHF. METHODS AND RESULTS Vascular reactivity was assessed in organ chambers. Cultured porcine coronary artery endothelial cells porcine coronary artery segements were used to study the phosphorylation level of endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) at serine 1177, and AMPK at the Threonine 172 by Western blot analysis and immunohistochemical staining. RWPs caused endothelium-dependent relaxations in rings from rat aorta and mesenteric artery, and in those from porcine coronary artery. NO-mediated relaxations to RWPs as assessed in the presence of indomethacin and charybdotoxin plus apamin, were inhibited by compound C (an inhibitor of AMPK). Compound C also reduced EDHF-mediated relaxations as assessed in the presence of indomethacin and N(G)-nitro L-arginine. In contrast, compound C did not affect endothelium-dependent relaxations to acetylcholine and those to sodium nitroprusside. Moreover, RWPs induced the phosphorylation of AMPK at threonine 172 and eNOS at serine 1177 in endothelial cells; these responses were inhibited by compound C. CONCLUSION The present findings indicate that RWPs cause both NO and EDHF-mediated relaxations in several types of isolated arteries and that these effects are dependent on the activation of the AMP-activated protein kinase pathway.

Spectral Parameters of HRV In Yoga Practitioners, Athletes And Sedentary Males.

Abstract: Physical inactivity is an important risk factor for cardiovascular mortality and morbidity. Exercise is considered an acceptable method for improving and maintaining physical and emotional health. Although yoga is historically a spiritual discipline, a growing body of evidence supports the belief that yoga benefits physical and mental health. The objective of this study was to evaluate heart rate variability which reflects autonomic control of heart among yoga practitioners, athletes and individuals with sedentary lifestyle. The study was carried out in the departments of physiology at MAMC Agroha, Hisar and Pt. BD Sharma PGIMS Rohtak, Haryana. The study group comprised of 1200 healthy male volunteers of 16 to 55 years of age. The study group was divided into four age groups: Group A of age 16 to 25 years; Group B of age 26 to 35 years; Group C of age 36 to 45 years and Group D of age 46 to 55 years. All age groups were further divided into three categories i.e athlete (runner), yoga (yoga practitioners) and sedentary in which individuals with sedentary life style were included. The basal recording of ECG in lead II was done for 5 minutes. The Polyrite-D ECG data was used for analysis of heart rate variability by frequency domain method. Two spectral components were recorded namely high frequency (HF) component (0.15-0.4 Hz), an indicator of vagal efferent activity and low frequency (LF) component (0.04-.15 Hz), replicator of composite sympatho-vagal interplay. HF component in normalized unit was found significantly high in age group B and C in yoga practitioners and athletes as compared to sedentary individuals and in age group D significantly high in yoga practitioners as compared to athletes and sedentary individuals. Significantly decreased LF/HF ratio was found in age group B and C in yoga and athlete subjects as compared to sedentary individuals and in age group D in yoga practitioners as compared to athletes and sedentary individuals. This indicates that parasympathetic activity is substantially greater in yoga practitioners.

Involvement of Neuropeptide Orexin B in Basolateral Amygdala Mediated Consummatory Behaviour in Male Wistar Albino Rats.

Abstract: The basolateral amygdala has been implicated in the regulation of food intake besides the hypothalamic centres. In the present study, we hypothesized that the Orexin B, a polypeptide identified in the lateral hypothalamic region, may be involved in the modification of the functions the of amygdaloid centres. We therefore studied the effect of infusion of Orexin B and its antagonist (TCS-OX2-29) into Basolateral amygdala to study the feeding behaviour. Materials and methods: Adult male Wistar albino rats were selected and grouped into control, sham operated control and experimental groups (n=6 each) Orexin was infused in two doses (3 nmol/μl, 30 nmol/ μl) and TCS-OX2-29(10 μg/μl) was infused in another group. Sequential Food intake and water intake were measured at 1, 2, 4, 6, 12 hours and intake for the day was also recorded in all groups and the results (mean±SEM) were statistically analyzed by Kruskal Wali’s test and p<0.05 was considered significant. Results: The food intake and water intake were significantly increased (p<0.01) in the high dose group though the increase in the low dose treated animals was less. Injection of Orexin B antagonist decreased the food and water intake significantly. Discussion and conclusion: The results suggest that Orexin plays a role in the modulation of feeding behaviour. In the lower doses it did not show significant effect. At higher doses, the effect was marked. The role of orexin in ingestive behaviour is further confirmed by the action of antagonist infusion, which resulted decrease in the feeding activities.

Aerobic Fitness, Heart Rate Recovery and Heart Rate Recovery Time in Indian School Children.

Abstract: Data on aerobic fitness and heart rate recovery in children are limited. This study was done to evaluate the relation between them in Indian school going children. Three hundred children of 7 to 10.5 years were recruited and their aerobic fitness was predicted using modified Harvard's step test (VO₂max) and 20 meter shuttle test (VO₂peak). The heart rate was monitored for 12 minutes post modified Harvard's step test. The difference between the maximum and the 1st minute HR was noted as HRR1 and the time taken to reach the resting heart rate was also recorded. VO₂max was inversely correlated with HRR1 (r = -0.64, p<0.001). However, the partial correlation of the two was not significant (r(partial) = -0.037, p = 0.55), indicating children with higher basal HR had higher HRR1 and that accounted for the observed association with aerobic fitness. Cox regression analysis showed that the recovery rate per unit time was 3% greater with increasing VO₂max (HR = 1.03, 95% CI:1.01 to 1.05, p = 0.013). The heart rate parameters did not show any associat with VO₂peak This study demonstrates that there is no relation between VO₂max and HRR1 after 3 minutes of modified Harvard's step test in Indian children of 7 to 10.5 years. However, aerobic fitness is a positive predictor of heart rate recovery time in this group.

Effect Of Electromagnetic Waves Emitted From Mobile Phone On Brain Stem Auditory Evoked Potential In Adult Males.

Abstract: Mobile phone (MP) is commonly used communication tool. Electromagnetic waves (EMWs) emitted from MP may have potential health hazards. So, it was planned to study the effect of electromagnetic waves (EMWs) emitted from the mobile phone on brainstem auditory evoked potential (BAEP) in male subjects in the age group of 20-40 years. BAEPs were recorded using standard method of 10-20 system of electrode placement and sound click stimuli of specified intensity, duration and frequency.Right ear was exposed to EMW emitted from MP for about 10 min. On comparison of before and after exposure to MP in right ear (found to be dominating ear), there was significant increase in latency of II, III (p < 0.05) and V (p < 0.001) wave, amplitude of I-Ia wave (p < 0.05) and decrease in IPL of III-V wave (P < 0.05) after exposure to MP. But no significant change was found in waves of BAEP in left ear before vs after MP. On comparison of right (having exposure routinely as found to be dominating ear) and left ears (not exposed to MP), before exposure to MP, IPL of IIl-V wave and amplitude of V-Va is more (< 0.001) in right ear compared to more latency of III and IV wave (< 0.001) in left ear. After exposure to MP, the amplitude of V-Va was (p < 0.05) more in right ear compared to left ear. In conclusion, EMWs emitted from MP affects the auditory potential.

Effect of Moderate Aerobic Exercise Training on Autonomic Functions and its Correlation with the Antioxidant Status.

Abstract: Aerobic exercise is a proven measure to enhance the cardio-respiratory efficiency. This improvement is primarily due to improvement in autonomic function where in there is increase in the parasympathetic function and decrease in sympathetic function. Exercise also affects many metabolic activities in our body and may be one of the factors which reduce the oxidative stress. The aim of the present study was to see the effect of moderate aerobic exercise training on autonomic function and its correlation with antioxidant status. 30 healthy volunteers in the age group of 18-22 years were screened. Autonomic function tests included activity (tone) and reactivity parameters. Antioxidant status was assessed by the level of malondialdehyde in plasma. We observed a significant change in SBP, DBP, LF nu, HF nu, delta value of DBP in CPT and MDA. Our findings are consistent with earlier findings that short duration physical training is known to reduce blood pressure and that there is a relationship between HF (in HRV) and training response Physical exercise also provides a favorable change in the biochemical parameters such as MDA.

Intra-class Correlation among Heart Rate Variability analysis softwares across different physiological postures.

Abstract: Heart rate variability (HRV) is a simple technique which helps to assess the alterations in cardiac autonomic activity in healthy and diseased individuals. It is performed in various research centers using different hardwares and softwares. Hence, HRV reports generated from these centers cannot be compared unless their HRV data acquisition systems and the HRV analysis softwares correlate or agree with each other. In this study, Intra-class correlation coefficient test was done to see the extent of correlation among three HRV analysis softwares used by researchers in India, namely, (1). Kubios HRV version 2.0, Department of Physics, University of Kuopio, Finland, (2). HRV soft 1.1 Version, Autonomic Function Laboratory, Department of Physiology, All India Institute Of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi and (3). Nevrokard aHRV 12.0.0. (Medistar Inc., Slovenia). Following standard guidelines, five minutes ECG data was acquired from twenty six healthy volunteers in supine, sitting and standing positions. The R-R intervals were computed from the ECG data and was subjected to short-term HRV analysis using the above three softwares. Statistical analysis revealed a highly significantly (p 0.8) among the three softwares for both time domain and frequency domain parameters in the three different positions. Hence, it may be proposed that the interpretation of short-term HRV reports generated by the three softwares, across laboratories, can be equated.

Adherence To JNC-VII and WHO-ISH guidelines of antihypertensive medications prescribed to hypertensive patients with co-morbid conditions.

Abstract: The present study aims at comparing the prescribing pattern of antihypertensive drugs in essential hypertension with specific co-morbid conditions with JNC-VII and WHO-ISH guidelines. Adult patients of both sex, who were attending medicine OPD of Shri Krishna Hospital, Karamsad, Gujarat since last 6 months and being prescribed antihypertensive drug/s for hypertension, were selected for the study. Hypertensive patients with co-morbities diabetes mellitus, ischemic heart diseases, congestive heart failure, and chronic renal diseases were included in the study. Adherence to JNC-VII guideline and WHO-ISH guidelines with respect to prescribing antihypertensive drugs in patients with diabetes mellitus were found to be 97% and 40.81% respectively, while it was found to be 72.27% to both the guidelines in patients with IHD. Similarly in cases of hypertension with CHF, adherence to prescribing antihypertensive were found to be 93.62% and 38.30% respectively, whereas for CKD patients, adherence to both guidelines was found to be same i.e. 33.33%. There is need of following such authentic guidelines in managing hypertension like chronic disease since these guidelines are based on various clinical trials and successful attainment of target BP in patients will be much easier by implementing them.

Test-retest reliability of a portable gas analysis system under free living conditions.

Abstract: Introduction: K4b 2 (COSMED Srl Italy) is a portable device that is considered valid and reliable for measuring oxygen uptake (VO 2 ) and carbon dioxide production (VCO 2 ) under laboratory conditions. Objectives: Evaluate the test-retest reliability of K4b 2 during walking, stair climbing and descending stairs under free living conditions. Methods: Twelve participants completed two self-selected comfortable paced walking tests and 20 participants completed two self-selected comfortable paced stair climbing and descending tests. VO 2 and VCO 2 were measured during the tests using K4b 2 . Results: ICCs for VO 2 (ICC & 95% CI: 0.91, 0.72-0.97) and VCO 2 (0.91, 0.72-0.97) of walking demonstrated high reliability whereas reliability was moderate for stair climbing (VO 2 : 0.82, 0.6-0.93; VCO 2 : 0.73, 0.440.88) and low for descending stairs (VO 2 : 0.67, 0.33-0.85; VCO 2 : 0.51, 0.1-0.77). Conclusion: K4b 2 is a highly reliable device for VO 2 and VCO 2 measurement during self-paced walking in

Cardiovascular Autonomic Neuropathy in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus.

Abstract: Purpose Objective is to evaluate cardiovascular autonomic function in SLE by simple non-invasive tests. Methods A case control study was carried out involving 18-50 yrs old previously diagnosed SLE patients and same number of age and sex-matched controls. Parasympathetic function was assessed by heart rate (HR) response to Valsalva maneuver, deep breathing and standing. Sympathetic function was evaluated by blood pressure response to standing and sustained hand-grip test (HGT). Results There were 50 female SLE patients. They had significantly higher minimum resting HR and diastolic blood pressure (DBP). HR variation with deep breathing, expiratory inspiratory ratio, 30:15 ratio and DBP change in response to HGT were significantly lower inpatients compared to controls. Thirty patients (60%) had at least one abnormal or two borderline test results indicating autonomic impairment of which 27 had parasympathetic dysfunction and 7 had sympathetic dysfunction. Conclusion Autonomic dysfunction is common in SLE with higher prevalence of parasympathetic impairment.

Evaluation of Visual Evoked Potential (VEP) in Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).

Abstract: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), a progressive and partially reversible disease, has drawn world-wide attention for its moderate prevalence rate and causing central and peripheral neuropathy. Considering its severity in causing visual pathway impairment, the present investigation was carried out to find out the functional integrity of the visual pathway through visual evoked potentials (VEP) and to determine the factors influencing the condition in COPD patients. A total of 30 COPD patients of both sexes, classified according to the severity of the disease based on spirometric indices, were subjected to VEP testing and series of wave forms were measured and compared with equal number of control subjects. The latency of N75 and P100 were prolonged (P < 0.01) and the P100 amplitude was reduced significantly (P < 0.01) in COPD patients. Thus, the influence of COPD causing the optic neuropathy is apparent from the significant VEP changes. Non-invasive procedure can possibly be utilized as a routine screening test for COPD patients for better medical care.

Learning Style Preferences of Undergraduate Dental Students of a North Indian Dental College.

Abstract: This study was undertaken to determine the learning style preferences of first and 2nd year BDS students by administering VARK questionnaire. Stepping stone method was used to identify sensory modality preference of each student. 51% students preferred single mode of learning style (27% kinesthetic, 15% aural, 6% read/write and 3% visual mode of learning style). 49% students preferred multiple modes (23% bi-modal, 17% tri-modal, 9% had quad-modal preference). The mean V, A, R, K scores were determined and compared using Mann-Whitney U test. V score of 2nd year was significantly higher compared to 1st year (p value = 0.012). V score of females was significantly higher than that of males (p value = 0.004). The results showed diversity in preference of learning style of students. This diversity necessitates a change from traditional teaching (aural lecture and flowcharts/diagrams) to active learning strategies, for a more productive educational experience.