Karnataka Region Research Articles

Seropositivity of Transfusion Transmitted Infections among Blood Donors in Hilly Region of Karnataka, India

Introduction: One of the major problem associated with blood transfusions are Transfusion Transmitted Infections (TTIs). Accurate estimates of risk of TTIs are essential for monitoring the safety of blood supply. National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO) guidelines state that all donor’s blood samples should mandatorily be tested for Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), Hepatitis C Virus (HCV), Syphilis and Malaria. Aim: To estimate the seropositivity of HIV, Hepatitis B surface Antigen (HBsAg), HCV, Syphilis and Malaria among blood donors for tertiary care hospital of hilly region in Karnataka, India. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was done from January 2012 to March 2018 in District Hospital Blood bank, Department of Pathology, Kodagu Institute of Medical Sciences, Madikeri, Karnataka, India. The blood donors were screened with detailed history and physical examination according to Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) of Blood bank as per Guidelines for Blood donor selection and referral. Donor blood sample was subjected to screening investigations for TTIs diseases: HIV, HBV, HCV, Syphilis and Malaria. Data collected was tabulated in Microscoft Excel and results were expressed as percentage. Results: The study included total 9599 blood donors. The total number of male donors was 8985 and female donors were 614. There were 74 seropositive donors of which 71 (96%) were males and 3 (4.0%) were females. The total seropositivity rate of TTIs was 0.77% among which the incidence of seropositivity was higher in males as compared to females. There were 55 donors (0.58%) positive for HBV, eight donors (0.08%) positive for Syphilis, five donors (0.05%) positive for HIV, four donors (0.04%) positive for Malaria and two donors (0.02%) positive for HCV. Conclusion: Screening and better selection of donors by testing for TTIs are necessary to improve blood safety in the blood transfusion centre of hospital.

Comparative Morphological Assessment of Lemongrass (Cymbopogon spp.) Cultivars for Oil yield, Chemical Composition and Quality Parameters under Southern region of India

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon flexuosus) is an important perennial aromatic plant and natural source of citral that is used in the preparations of variousperfumes.In the present study, eight lemongrass cultivars were evaluated for growth, herbage, and essential oil yield during 2018-2019 inthe southern region of Karnataka, India. Results revealed that significant differences were noticed in the growth and yield parameters of eight lemongrass cultivars studied. The plant height and the number of tillers varies, ranging from 108.47-136.75cm and 38.13-47.60, respectively. Significantly higher herbage yield (t/ha/year) was recorded in CIM-Shikar (24.25), followed by Krishna (22.50) and CKP-25 (20.72). The lowest herbage yield wasrecorded in the Cauvery cultivar. Essential oil content varied from 0.70-1.35% (v/w) and essential oil yield varies from 133.56- 302.40 kg/ha/ year in different cultivars. The amount of citral varied from 2.20% to 88.14% among eight lemongrass cultivars. The varieties arranged according to the citral content as follows, Cauvery (88.84 ± 0.99) >Nima (88.57 ± 0.70) >CIM-Shikar (84.97 ± 4.08) >OD-19 (85.90 ± 0.59) >CIM-Suvarna (82.53 ± 1.10) >CKP-25 (81.84 ± 0.30) >Krishna (79.26 ± 0.44) >CIM-Atal (2.15 ± 0.07). CIM-Atal was superior in geraniol (88.92 ± 1.00%) compared to citral (geranial and neral) content among lemongrass cultivars studied; this cultivar may be a partial replacement/ substitute for geraniol rich essential oil-bearing plant in the future. Overall, cultivar CIM-Shikar was superior to other cultivars in terms of essential oil yield (302.40 kg/ha/year) and superior in citral content (84.97 ± 4.08).

Comparative Analysis of Diagnostic Methods Used for Assessing Incidence of Malaria in Two Regions from South India

Background: Malaria is a vector-borne disease of major public health concern in several tropical and subtropical countries. Five different Plasmodium species are known to cause malaria. For optimal public health measures, region-specific prevalence of Plasmodium species should be identified by optimal diagnostic methods available. In this study, we have detected the malaria incidence rates in two regions of South India and compared the merit of three different diagnostic methods available for detection of malaria. Materials and Methods: Six hundred blood samples from febrile symptomatic patients were screened for malaria from Bengaluru and Vijayapura regions of Karnataka, India, by microscopy, rapid diagnostic test (RDT), and nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) methods. Results: The incidence rate of malaria in Vijayapura and Bengaluru was 8.6% (26/300) and 7% (21/300), respectively. The rate of malaria infection by Plasmodium vivax was higher in Bengaluru (80.9%) compared to Vijayapura (69%), whereas the rate of Plasmodium falciparum infection was higher in Vijayapura (23%) compared to Bengaluru (14.2%). The mixed infection rate was slightly higher from Vijayapura region. One isolate detected as P. falciparum by microscopy and RDT method was identified as mixed infection by PCR. Three and two isolates which were negative by microscopy and RDT methods, respectively, tested positive by PCR, whereas eight isolates identified as P. vivax by RDT method were negative by PCR and microscopy methods. The sensitivity and specificity of microscopy-based detection method were 93% and 100%, respectively, whereas the sensitivity and specificity of RDT method were observed to be 95% and 75%, respectively. Detection of Plasmodium species by PCR was highly sensitive and specific compared to microscopy or RDT method. Conclusion: The incidence of malaria infection in these regions is moderate. Malaria infection in these regions was caused predominantly by P. vivax. Accuracy of the malaria detection was superior by PCR method compared to conventional methods tested.

Antibacterial profiling of endophytic fungi sourced from Justicia betonica, a medicinal plant from the secluded Western Ghats region

The present study focused on exploring the endophytic fungal diversity associated with an ethnomedicinally valued plant, Justicia betonica located in the Western Ghats region of Karnataka and evaluation of their antibacterial potential. A total of 210 endophytic fungal isolates were obtained from healthy leaf and stem tissues. The isolates were grouped into 17 distinct genera, including morphospecies. The Colletotrichum is one of the most predominant genera representing 18.1% of the total isolates, followed by Cladosporium (14.8%), Pestalotiopsis (7.14%), and Alternaria (6.7%). The Shannon-wiener diversity (H) showed that fungal diversity in both plant tissues does not have significant differences. The antibacterial potential of the isolates was evaluated using a primary agar plug diffusion technique in which 28 isolates showed prominent antibacterial activity. Nine isolates that showed the highest antibacterial activity were subjected to secondary antibacterial screening using ethyl acetate extracts. The extracts showed varying inhibitory activity against both the pathogens Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus with inhibition zone ranging from 14 to 32 mm. A Xylaria sp. designated as PJJBLF53 displayed the maximum inhibition zone against both the pathogens tested when compared to the standard antibiotic, gentamicin. The study indicates that J. betonica harbors diverse endophytic fungi that possess potent antibacterial potential.

Constraints to adoption of soil and water conservation technologies: Some insights from semi-arid region of Karnataka

In Karnataka state, land degradation, climate change and its variability are the major threats to agricultural sustainability. Under such conditions, the adoption of soil and water conservation measures is of prime importance due to their multiple synergetic positive effects on natural resources. The main objective of the study is to identify the constraints and problems in adoption and repair and maintenance of soil and water conservation measures in the drought prone areas of Karnataka State. Following multistage proportionate simple random sampling, primary data from 593 farmers were collected for this study. Garrett's ranking technique was used to prioritize the farmers’ response on constraints. It was found that major constraints in adoption of soil and water conservation measures were waiting for watershed programme on their fields, lack technical support and lack of interest of land owners. Major constraints in repair and maintenance of soil and water conservation measures were lack of technical support, non-utilization of watershed fund and fragmented land holdings. Involvement in multiple schemes, merging of watershed department with agriculture department, short window for implementation, difficult in community mobilization, mismatch between the fund requirement and its release, lack of convergence of resources from different schemes and shortage of technical resource persons were identified as major problems faced by watershed implementation agencies in the State. Therefore, concerted efforts are need to be made to overcome these constraints for an effective and efficient implementation of soil and water conservation programmes.

Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice towards Digital Imaging and Cone Beam Computed Tomography among Dental Practitioners in North Karnataka, India.

Introduction:Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) has one of the most important roles for diagnosis in dentistry.Aim and Objectives:The aim of this study is to assess the level of knowledge and awareness toward the scope of digital imaging and CBCT, among dental practitioners in North Karnataka regions such as Bidar and Raichur city.Materials and Methods:A questionnaire study was carried out among 200 dental practitioners of North Karnataka (Bidar and Raichur). A specially designed structured questionnaire (13 in number) was administered to assess the knowledge of digital imaging and CBCT. Data were analyzed using Pearson's correlation coefficient test, and any P ≤ 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant.Results:A total of 200 dentists were selected for the study, among which 93.5% were reported that digital imaging is the most useful method compared to conventional method. About 91.0% of the dentists were aware of CBCT. Of 91.5% of the dentists preferred CBCT for three-dimensional imaging in the head and neck region. Among all, majority of dentists reported that all types of radiography will be used in digital imaging (45.0%).Conclusion:The current study showed that knowledge of dentist regarding digital imaging and CBCT was not satisfactory; therefore, participants require an understanding of the concepts behind CBCT and related technologies, making appropriate training essential for every member of the dental team.

Myths and Misconceptions about Communication Disorders: A Survey in North Karnataka region

Introduction: Communication disorders are highly prevalent in India especially in children. Early identification and treatment can prevent children from falling behind academically, socially, and in other key areas. However, identifying children with communication disorders and providing rehabilitation at an early stage is challenging in Indian scenario. Though 21st century has progressed drastically towards the rehabilitation of various communication disorders effectively, not all the regions in India are accepting the scientific rehabilitation. Due of lack of awareness, ignorance and stigma related to communication disorders, some open prejudices still persist in our country, making it difficult for people with communication disorders to have their condition recognized and to seek rehabilitation. However beforehand it is important to know the origin and degree of the problem so that appropriate remedy can be sought. Hence the present study makes one such effort, to study the extent of myths widely spread over north Karnataka region. Materials and Methods: A questionnaire consisting of 10 questions which focus on myths and misbelieves regarding communication disorders was administered on a total of Six hundred participants in the age range of 18 to 80 years. Results: Results indicted presence of myths in rural population with respect to communication disorders compared to urban population. Compared to younger group older group showed more misconceptions. Conclusion: From the results it can be concluded that further necessary programs needs to be implemented in rural areas and for older age groups of North Karnataka region to create awareness in this regard.

Vegetation of Kalyana Karnataka Region, India

Understanding the diversity of vegetation is a useful tool in plant ecology and forestry to compare the composition of different species. Kalyana Karnataka region is one of the largest arid regions in India. The natural vegetation can be seen mostly in the valleys and hill locks only. The forest vegetation generally falls under Southern tropical dry deciduous forest and Southern tropical thorn forests. Dry deciduous forests are found in small blocks almost throughout the area but the mere composition is at Chincholi in Kaluburagi district, Khanapur and Changler in Bidar District and Sandur and Sogi in Bellary. Trees of this region are generally drought resistant with wide distribution and have great adaptability (Anogeissus latifolia, Soymida febrifuga etc.). The occurrence of teak (Tectona grandis) in low to fair amount characterizes this type. Yadgir, Raichur and Koppal district comprising predominant thorny and hardwood species, main components are Acacia chundra, A. leucophloea, Albizia amara, Ixora arborea, Cassis fistula etc.; this can be classified as thorn forests. Associated and encountered shrubs and herbs in the region were also recorded. Interestingly, few insectivorous plants viz., Drosera indica, D. Burmanii, Utricularia species are found. Pteridophytes like Isoetes coramandaliana, Selaginella bryopteris, Pteris jeranifolia, Adiantum incisum etc. are creating botanical interest about the forest vegetation of Yadgiri and Raichur district.

Assessment of self-perception and need for orthodontic treatment using the index of orthodontic treatment need in visually impaired students of Northern Karnataka, India

Background: In recent years, the perception of an individual with a disability like visual impairment has been slowly evolving from the “forgotten” person to one who is recognized as needing treatment. Aim: The aim is to assess the self-perception and orthodontic treatment need in visually impaired (VI) students and to compare these with the control group (CG), and also to create awareness about malocclusion and orthodontic treatment in both groups. Materials and Methods: The present cross-sectional study was conducted in the special schools for the VI in the North Karnataka region. The CG was from the local schools in the same region. A total of 125 VI, 162 control students aged 11–19 years were included in the study. Determination of Esthetic Component (AC) and dental health component (DHC) in VI and control students were done. Chi-square test and Kappa statistics were used to compare between the study and the CG and to find out the agreement between the subjects and the orthodontist respectively. A P value of

Study of depression, anxiety, stress and quality of sleep among healthcare professionals during COVID-19 pandemic in North Karnataka region

Study of depression, anxiety, stress and quality of sleep among healthcare professionals during COVID-19 pandemic in North Karnataka region

Epidemiological study of ocular trauma in SNMC and HSK hospital Bagalkot

Aim: To study the epidemiology of ocular trauma in a medical college hospital in North Karnataka region. Materials and Methods: Demographic data, detail history and ocular examination were done for all the patients who presented to our hospital between the periods of August 2016 to April 2017 with any ocular trauma. Data were collected and analyzed using Open- Epi software. Result: 104 patients presented to our hospital during the time period of 9months.The mean age of trauma was 32.78 with SD 16.97. Male ( 65.38%) were more affected than female(34.61%).57.69% were from rural and 42.3% were from urban. Ocular trauma mostly occurs between 30-50 years (41.3%). Home, road and field were the most common location of ocular injury. Foreign body, stick and lime were the most common offending agent. The association between age of ocular trauma and location of injury and occupation was clinically significant with p value 0.05 and 0.041 respectively. The association between gender and location of injury was clinically significant with p value 0.0013 but occupation and gender of ocular trauma was clinically not significant with p value 0.08. Conclusion: Considering the prevalence, middle aged men are more vulnerable to ocular trauma mostly while working at field or driving. Prognosis might be challenging. Appropriate education for eye protection and use of safety measures, would help in reducing ocular morbidity. Educating for timely treatment and intervention after injury is helpful for saving vision. Keyword: Epidemiology, Ocular trauma, Rural.

A study on the effect of waste plastic strips in the stabilization of clay soil

The black cotton soilis the kind of soils whose size of size modifications together with the variation in moisture content material. They will have a conduct of expanding and contracting that is a severevulnerability to constructed building above them. The swelling behaviour of clay soil is existing in north Karnataka region. Thestudy demonstrates the results of an effortto strengthen and stabilize the clay soil with waste synthetic strips. The synthetic pieces being kept readyand integrated at three diverse blending proportions (0.5%, 1% and 1.5%) by mass of soil with various aspect ratios (8*8mm, 8*16mm, and8*24mm). The exploratory results demonstrated that there was obviously a development in the shear quality factors. The expanding and drying upwards conduct behaviour are additionally sensitively reduced. There was a reduction that is substantial the OMC and insignificant improvement in MDD. The maximum size of plastic (aspect ratio) and synthetic content that results in maximum outcome may be chosen based on the value for the selection parameter for a definite engineering work. Stabilizing black cotton soils with unwanted plastic containers at the same time solves the tasks of unsuitable plastic waste reutilizing that is presently a teething issue in many countries that are developing. The outcomes obtained from this investigation positively suggest that addition of this product in clay soils would succeed for ground enhancement in geotechnical engineering.

Microfinance and women empowerment a study of north Karnataka region

Microfinance and women empowerment a study of north Karnataka region

Contract Farming – A way to Sustainable Agriculture: A Case of Mango Contract Farming in Karnataka

<p>As we are aware that contract farming in other produce like Gurkin and Mango is well established and most of the produce are having a good market in other countries. Even the Mangos which is said to be a highly cultivated in Karnataka region the market for the mango is quite complicated. The study reveals that the contract farming will enhance export potential and the likelihood of improving the social and economic condition of the mango farmers particularly the small mango cultivators. It was seen that the market for the Indian mangos that to 1.19% of exports in the world which is said to be low and most of the exports are by the large formers but according to the pilot study there are more number of small farmers who are lack of proper post harvest facilities, lack of bargaining power, lack of motivation and unable to market their produce for fair cost. The strategy to help the small farmers to go for commercialization of the mango cultivation through contract farming this will help in enhancing the living condition of the farmers and a better bargaining capacity. Moreover the contract farming will improve the good link for small and marginal farmers with private sector and exploit the potential of agro-processing sector by supply the raw commodities to agro processing industries. Hence, the title “Contract Farming – A Way to Sustainable Agriculture” further the proposed paper will recommend some of the policy measures to promote the long term sustainable partnerships and to overcome the danger of exclusion of modern supply chains.</p><h1> </h1>

Pathological, biochemical and molecular variability of Colletotrichum truncatum incitant of anthracnose disease in chilli (Capsicum annuum L.)

The present study aims to establish pathogenic variability among Colletotrichum truncatum, an incitant of anthracnose disease across different chilli growing regions of Karnataka. Thirty suspected C. truncatum isolates were identified based on their morphological and conidial characteristics and further confirmed by Internal Transcribed Spacer DNA sequence analysis. Pathogenicity test was carried out by in vitro detached leaf and fruit assay, and also under greenhouse conditions using 20 different chilli cultivars grown across Karnataka. Colletotrichum truncatum isolates recorded the varied degree of pathogenicity index (PI) on different chilli cultivars. Isolate UOM-02 was found highly virulent (PI > 80 against 12 tested cultivars) and cultivar cv. 4 was found highly resistant to C. truncatum infection (Average PI, 48.21). Further, the involvement of enzymes such as cellulase, pectin methylesterase and ascorbate peroxidase in determining the virulence of the pathogen was established. The highest activity of catalase (UOM-24; 7.38 units), ascorbate peroxidase (UOM-02; 2.9 units), cellulase (UOM-02; 0.58 units), and pectin methylesterase (UOM-02; 6.7 units), was recorded by different C. truncatum isolates. Cellulase and pectin methylesterase activities were positively correlated with their pathogenicity, while catalase activity was found least correlated. Results of RAPD and ISSR analysis recorded higher polymorphism among the isolates. Interestingly these isolates were not clustered based on their geographical origin, Pathogenicity index and biochemical characters. From this study, the existence of highly virulent C. truncatum isolate (UOM-02), which can cause severe loss under favourable conditions, was revealed. Further, possible use of specific enzymes as an indicator of virulence of the pathogen is discussed.

Isolation and Molecular Analysis of Cladosporium Species from Siddi Tribal Community Residing in North Karnataka Region, India

Isolation and Molecular Analysis of Cladosporium Species from Siddi Tribal Community Residing in North Karnataka Region, India

Early identification of high-risk pregnancies in rural areas of Karnataka through maternal obstetric monitoring program

Maternal mortality rate (MMR) has been one of India’s key priority areas. Over the years. several national programs have addressed issues of accessibility and affordability of antenatal care. Major gaps in the system include shortage of trained human resource and technological infrastructure in providing essential diagnostic ante-natal care. High risk pregnancies (HRP) owing to various factors, account for 70-80% of maternal deaths. This case study describes the clinical and workflow process innovation in ante-natal care in Shorapur taluka, a rural region of Northern Karnataka. Maternal obstetric monitoring (MOM) through a defined protocol for high-risk pregnancy identification aided by ultrasound scans, was introduced at the sub-district hospital. In parallel, system strengthening was done through capacity building activities, installation of blood storage unit and provision of ultrasound services. The model demonstrates that process and technological innovations can be leveraged on to facilitate and make available specialist medical services in rural areas, which is key to identification and timely management of high-risk pregnancies.

Comparative genetic diversity analysis based on virulence and repetitive genes profiling of circulating Pasteurella multocida isolates from animal hosts.

Virulence associated and/or housekeeping/repetitive genes either in single or multiple copies are being extensively targeted for bacterial pathogen detection and differentiation in epidemiological studies. In the present study, isolation of Pasteurella multocida from different animals and their genetic profiling based on the capsular types, virulence and repetitive elements (ERIC/REP) were carried out. A total 345 clinical samples from apparently healthy and diseased (pneumonic, septicaemia) animals (sheep, goat, pig, cattle, buffalo and rabbits) from different geographical regions of Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, Mizoram and Assam states of India were screened. A total of 32% of the samples were found positive, of which 41 P. multocida isolates recovered. Virulence profiling of isolates indicated that omp87, ompA, ptfA, sodA, sodC, nanB, fur and exbB were present in 100% of isolates. Whereas, prevalence of other genes were; nanH (90%), ompH (71%), pfhA (63%), plpB (80%), hsf-1 (12%), hsf-2 (37%), pmHAS (78%), toxA (73%), hgbA (37%), hgbB (81%), tbpA (78%) and fimA (98%), among isolates. There was no influence of host or place on prevalence of virulence genes when assessed by fitting a Hierarchial Bayesian ordinal regression model. There was correlation (positive and negative) between broad groups of virulence genes. Both repetitive gene profiles (ERIC and REP) generated multiple amplicons (~200 to ~4000bp). Cluster analysis with ERIC profiles revealed 5 clusters and 3 non- typable isolates with higher discriminatory power (D=0.7991) than the REP-PCR profiles (D=00.734) which revealed 4 clusters and 6 non- typable isolates. The results showed that a considerable level of genetic diversity exists among circulating P. multocida isolates despite belonging to the same geographical origin. The genetic diversity or clustering based on either virulence or repetitive elements among isolates could be largely driven by multiple factors acting together which lead to manifestations of particular disease symptoms.

Overview of research on establishment of rice varieties of varying duration in irrigated rice based cropping systems

Rice-Rice Cropping System is found in irrigated lands and coastal regions of Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Kerala. Due to Monocropping, this system has suffered from deterioration in soil health and micronutrient deficiency. Rice-rice system occupies the 2nd position with an of area 5.89 m ha after rice-wheat cropping system which occupies an area of 11 m ha in India. Rice-rice system is no longer productive in Southeast Asia.Transplanting after puddling has been a major traditional method of rice establishment. Repeated puddling adversely affects soil physical properties by dismantling soil aggregates, reducing permeability in subsurface layers, and forming hard-pans at shallow depths which make land preparation becomes difficult and requires more energy to achieve proper soil tilth for succeeding crops. Excessive pumping of water for puddling in peak summers also resulted in declining water table. Rice production with transplanting method has been limited by a number of factors such aswater scarcity, high input costs, shortage of skilled labour, sub-optimal plant population. Rice seedlings are transplanted by hired skilled labour that resulted in skilled labour shortage throughout the transplanting period which results into low plant population and eventually low rice yield. To overcome this problem, direct seeding of rice and no-puddled transplanting seems to be viable alternatives in rescuing farmers. This technique reduces labour needs, input requirements, investment and save time by timely sowing of rice and shorten crop duration by 7–10 days thantransplanted rice. Direct seeded rice, if managed properly, and provide grain yield comparable with that of transplanting and the system may be intensified by adjusting more crops in a year. Crop and varietal diversification of the rice based cropping systems may improve the productivity, profitability and resource use efficiency of the systems. Diversification is also a viable option to mitigate the risk of climate change. In this review article the effect of rice crop establishment methods with varying duration rice varieties on rice based cropping system are discussed.

Meteorological Data Analysis of Semi Arid Region Of Karnataka Using Relative Importance of Features and Adaptive Boosting classifier

Meteorological Data Analysis of Semi Arid Region Of Karnataka Using Relative Importance of Features and Adaptive Boosting classifier