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India is rich in agrobiodiversity and is considered to be one of the important countries for production of food, oilseed and horticultural crops, spices, and medicinal plants. However, the prevalence of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) such as type 2 diabetes (T2D) and obesity has been rapidly increasing in India due to unhealthy food habits, for example, changing from healthy unpolished brown rice to highly polished white rice. Bringing back our traditional foods such as millets and making use of India's rich biodiversity could help improve the health of its population and help in preventing and control of NCDs such as T2D. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Insectivorous bats have been shown to control a number of agricultural insect pests. As bats exhibit species-specific responses to the surrounding landscape, tied closely to their morphology and foraging mode, the activity and distribution patterns of bats, and consequently the ecosystem services they provide, are influenced by the landscape characteristics. Objectives: This study aims to determine which features in the landscape surrounding rice fields influence the activity levels of insectivorous bats, and at what scales they are most influential. Methods: We collected acoustic recordings to determine activity levels of seven bat sonotypes in rice fields surrounded by a variety of land-cover types in the Nagaon district of Assam, India. Using this, we determined the most important set of features in the surrounding landscape, and the scales at which had the strongest impact, for each sonotype. Results: Our results suggest that tree cover variables are the most important predictors of bat activity in rice fields. Distance to nearest forest, area of forest within 1 km, distance to nearest forest edge, and landscape heterogeneity influenced all five of the analysed bat sonotypes. Also important were the amount of urban land within 1 km, which exerted a negative effect on the activity of one sonotype, and moonlight activity, which negatively influenced the activity levels of one sonotype. Conclusion: Our results demonstrate that when flying over rice fields, bat activity is most influenced by presence and proximity of trees. Therefore, increasing tree cover in agricultural landscapes will increase bat activity and likely the level of pest control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective Aflatoxins are a group of naturally occurring mycotoxin which are toxic secondary metabolites produced by certain filamentous fungi like Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus. The main objective of this study was to screen the occurrence of aflatoxin in ready to eat nuts available locally and analyzing for its nutritive value and to evaluate the efficiency of conventional (thin-layer chromatography [TLC]) and sensitive kit-based (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay [ELISA]) method by detection of the aflatoxin in the sample. Methods A total of 50 samples including peanuts (10), cashew nuts (10), almonds (10), pistachio (10), and walnuts (10) were collected from different stores in Mangalore city. Each sample was divided into three fractions, as for microbiological analysis, proximate analysis, and detection of aflatoxin by following standard method (AOAC2000). Results The present study evidenced the contamination of aflatoxin in all of the five types of ready-to-eat nuts examined and the concentration was within the acceptable limits. But, among the samples analyzed, G10 (groundnut) showed a maximum concentration of 16 µg/L aflatoxin detected by ELISA method. It was also observed that the proximate analysis mainly moisture content did not affect aflatoxin accumulation. Conclusion Our study shows that aflatoxin contamination of food products has become a serious threat. Although several methods for detection and quantification of toxins have been developed, due to their low concentration of toxicity in food commodities, an analytical method for detection and quantification of aflatoxin have to be specific, sensitive, and simple to carry out and among TLC and ELISA, ELISA came out as a suitable for rapid and sensitive detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial infections are a growing world-wide problem. Bacterial infections are now known to assassinate annually more people than malaria. One of the best practices of the ancient time for the treatment of bacterial infection was Ayurvedic. On analyzing the latest survey about the plant possessing the antibacterial activity, it was identified that the plants Malabar nut possess various pharmacological properties. The native of the plant was India and was commonly called as Adusa which belongs to the family of Acanthaceae. In the current research work, totally 102 phytochemical compounds were retrieved from the plant Malabar nut through literature survey. Using PubChem databases, the two dimensional structure were identified only for 84 compounds. Virtual screening was carried out for these compounds and the result predicted that only 28 compounds were screened to be active drug molecules. The bacterial protein Cytochrome P450 14-alpha-sterol demethylases (CYP51) was responsible for most of the bacterial disease caused to human. Using PDB databases, the three dimensional structure of the protein were retrieved which were further used for docking process. Out of 28 compounds only 1 compound predicted the best binding interaction with the protein using docking software. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dietary adequacy and diversity during the lactation period are necessary to ensure good health and nutrition among women and children. Behavioral interventions pertaining to health and nutrition counselling during pregnancy and lactation are critical for awareness about dietary diversity. The issue assumes salience for marginalized communities because of the Covid-19 pandemic and associated economic and societal disruptions. This paper assesses the dietary patterns among 400 lactating mothers in the tribal-dominated district of Palghar in Maharashtra, India in 2020. The study is based on primary data regarding consumption of 10 food groups among women across 10 food groups based on 24-hour recall period. The primary outcome variable was binary information regarding Minimum Dietary Diversity defined as consumption from at least 5 food groups. Econometric analysis based on multilevel models and item-response theory is applied to identify food groups that were most difficult to be received by mothers during the early and late lactation period. We find that the daily diet of lactating mothers in Palghar primarily consists of grains, white roots, tubers, and pulses. In contrast, the intake of dairy, eggs, and non-vegetarian food items is much lower. Only Half of the lactating women (56.5 percent; 95% CI: 37.4; 73.8) have a minimum diversified diet (MDD). The prevalence of lactating women with MDD was higher among households with higher income (73.1 percent; 95% CI: 45.2; 89.9) than those in lower income group (50.7 percent; 95% CI: 42.3; 58.9). Lactating Women (in early phase) who received health and nutrition counseling services are more likely (OR: 2.37; 95% CI: 0.90; 6.26) to consume a diversified diet. Food groups such as fruits, meat, poultry, fish, nuts, and seeds were among the rare food items in daily diet. The dietary pattern lacking in fruits, nuts, and heme (iron) sources indicates more significant risks of micronutrient deficiencies. The findings call for improving dietary diversity among lactating mothers, particularly from the marginalized communities, and are driven by low consumption of dairy products or various fruits and vegetables. Among the different food items, the consumption of micronutrient-rich seeds and nuts is most difficult to be accessed by lactating mothers. Also, diet-centric counseling and informing lactating mothers of its benefits are necessary to increase dietary diversity for improving maternal and child nutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Makhana or gorgon nut has popular and nutrition rich pop across India and many parts of the world. In the light of the recent makhana food production, there is now considerable concern about the crop management, processing and marketing of makhana pop. Due to Covid-19 spread, many agriculture sectors in India as well as in the World were badly affected because of restriction of movement of workers, changes in demand of consumers and restricted food trade policies and financial instability. Hence, the objective of this present experiment was to assess elaborately about impacts of Covid-19 spread on the production and marketing system of makhana. Methods: Crop management system was monitored and problems were detected by field visits and taking observations. The sample size was >10 at each location for market analysis. Multistage random sampling at each stage and 'Conventional method' were adopted for per cent loss and gain. Result: According to August-2020 survey, Covid-19 spread and subsequent lock-down situation in India might reduce the total makhana production due to less labor involvement in the production process and would have adverse effect in the marketing system as well as on the export balance in the international market. Accordingly, a case study was also performed from the farmer field of Manigachhi, Darbhanga, Bihar, where crop losses occur from leaf blight due to improper crop management during lock-down situations and they farmers felt an existing weak marketing system. However, during the second survey in November (2020), it was evident that makhana industry got an sudden and impulsive change, due to increase in mass awareness about makhana as a nutrition dense medicinal food and immune booster. Early negative impact of Covid-19 was redressed and finally the makhana food industry became profitable on account of having medicinal and pharmaceutical value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bhallataka (Semecarpus anacardium) is a one of the important and powerful fast acting Ayurvedic herbs. It is used extensively in various immune suppress diseases. Its botanical name is (Semecarpus anacardium). It belongs to (Anacardaceae) family. It has been used all over India since centuries. It was held in high esteem by ancient sages of Ayurveda. It is a plant well known for its great medicinal value in Ayurveda and is effective in wide range of diseases. It is commonly known as Indian marking nut and used extensively in the system of Ayurveda to cure many diseases like Arshas (piles), Arbuda (cancer) etc. Bhallataka should be used after proper shodhana (purification/processing). Different shodhana methods are mentioned in the Ayurvedic literatures. Here an attempt has been made to compile the detail information of the drug Bhallataka including its paryaya (synonyms), guna (property), karma (actions), different shodhana methods, indications etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Areca nut, commonly known as supari, is widely used in India. In addition to tobacco and alcohol, it has been identified as one of the contributory factors for high rates of oral cancer in the country.Methods: This qualitative study explored perceptions and practices around the use of areca nut by conducting in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with 61 school-going adolescents in the city of Mumbai, India.Results: Respondents used low-priced sachets of sweetened, flavored areca nut called supari. They perceived supari as harmless because it was sweet, it had a fresh after-taste as compared to bitter-tasting smokeless tobacco products. How can something sweet be harmful was a common argument offered by respondents. Respondents invariably compared and contrasted areca nut to more harmful and addictive tobacco products; perceiving supari to have milder or inconsequential health effects. Supari use was initiated with friends, a sibling, or a cousin. It was almost always used with friends. Respondents also reported difficulty in refusal to use when offered supari by friends. Parental response to finding out about the child's supari use was often muted in comparison to extreme reactions associated with the child's tobacco use.Conclusions: Perceptions of low risk or relative harmlessness of the product, social influence, and the features of the product itself influence adolescents' use of areca nut. Although more research on perceptions of risk, with larger samples, is required, these findings are useful for school-based tobacco prevention and cessation programs and health policy-makers.Implications: The study findings have implications for prevention and cessation programs, and policymakers. School-based health education programs should allocate special sessions on areca nut use. Focused mass media communication campaigns describing its harms and association with oral cancer are required for the larger community. As was done for tobacco, Indian policymakers will have to evaluate the marketing, commerce, and distribution of areca nut and create appropriate laws. More research, with larger nationwide samples, is required to examine perceptions of areca nut. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food security and nutritional security are under increasing stress due to unabated surge in population growth, which is aggravated by global warming, climate change etc. In this context it is a growing necessity to evaluate non-conventional, lesser-known edible food plant for sustainable utilization. India is known for vast diversity of such edible plants, most of which are still unexplored, particularly the seed and nut category of edible plants. The present investigation was conducted during 2018-19 at Department of Biotechnology, Gauhati University, Guwahati, Assam, India. The present study deals with seven unrelated and diverse type of non-conventional seeds and nuts, viz., Trapa natans, Nymphaea nouchali, Euryle ferox, Castanopsis argentea, Artocarpus heterophyllus, Nelumbo nucifera and Gnetum gnemon. It was revealed that all these were rich in nutritive values with wide variation and high in calorific values. Crude protein content varied from 4.40% to 32.08%; carbohydrate content varied from 38.66 to 77.50%. With calorific values in the range of 317.78 to 376.62 Kcal/100g, these are high calorie food with low lipid in the range of 0.93 to 6.74%. They are also rich in dietary antioxidant phenolics which varied widely from 1.0 to 17.6 mg/g; free amino acid content varied from 4.0 to 10.66 mg/g. This preliminary study showed that contrary to general perception that nonconventional seeds and nuts are nutritionally poor and unimportant; they were very promising and need further consideration for utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Minimum Dietary Diversity (MDD) is a widely used indicator of adequate dietary micronutrient density for children 6-23 mo old. MDD food-group data remain underutilized, despite their potential for further informing nutrition programs and policies.Objectives: We aimed to describe the diets of children meeting MDD and not meeting MDD in India using food group data, nationally and subnationally.Methods: Food group data for children 6-23 mo old (n = 73,036) from the 2015-16 National Family Health Survey in India were analyzed. Per WHO standards, children consuming ≥5 of the following food groups in the past day or night met MDD: breast milk; grains, roots, or tubers; legumes or nuts; dairy; flesh foods; eggs; vitamin A-rich fruits and vegetables; and other fruits and vegetables. Children not meeting MDD consumed <5 food groups. We analyzed the number and types of foods consumed by children meeting MDD and not meeting MDD at the national and subnational geographic levels.Results: Nationally, children not meeting MDD most often consumed breast milk (84.5%), grains, roots, and tubers (62.0%), and/or dairy (42.9%). Children meeting MDD most often consumed grains, roots, and tubers (97.6%), vitamin A-rich fruits and vegetables (93.8%), breast milk (84.1%), dairy (82.1%), other fruits and vegetables (79.5%), and/or eggs (56.5%). For children not meeting MDD, district-level dairy consumption varied the most (6.4%-79.9%), whereas flesh foods consumption varied the least (0.0%-43.8%). For children meeting MDD, district-level egg consumption varied the most (0.0%-100.0%), whereas grains, roots, and tubers consumption varied the least (66.8%-100.0%).Conclusions: Children not meeting MDD had low fruit, vegetable, and protein-rich food consumption. Many children meeting MDD also had low protein-rich food consumption. Examining the number and types of foods consumed highlights priorities for children experiencing the greatest dietary deprivation, providing valuable complementary information to MDD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An exhaustive study was conducted to document spider fauna in cashew orchards of the Cashew Research Station, Madakkathara, Kerala, India from January 2015 to July 2017. A total of 63 species of spiders under 52 genera belonging to 14 families were recorded. The most species-rich families were Salticidae and Araneidae representing 33 and 27 per cent, respectively, of the total spider fauna. A guild structure analysis revealed six feeding guilds, viz.: stalkers, orb-web builders, foliage runners, scattered line weavers, ground runners, and ambushers. The occurrence of spiders was at a maximum during the monsoon with 59 species, followed by 26 during winter, 16 species during summer, and eight species being present all-round the year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Few traditions in South Asia have the antiquity and universal acceptance of betel quid and areca nut chewing. Its popularity dates back to ancient times in the South-Asian community with a foundation based on four factors, i.e. social acceptability, religious beliefs, perceived health benefits and addiction. We aim to provide an overview of its use in the South Asian region. Methods: We performed an electronic search on Medline, Embase and Google Scholar to identify the origins of the various betel quid and areca nut practices pertaining to the South Asian region along with their social and cultural influences. We also studied the prevalence across the region and the health effects, especially carcinogenic, along with the impact of diverse immigration today. Results: Other than the debate of where it originates, there is a diverse plethora of terms and methods of use of areca nut and betel quid in the region. Although established as a known carcinogen, the incidence is high, especially in the Indian subcontinent, with very few studies focusing on its use alone (without tobacco). The effect of globalization and increased movement of Asians across borders is resulting in changes in the patterns of diseases as well due to wider dissemination of areca nut and betel quid use. Conclusions: There is a huge loss of lives due to the addiction that areca nut causes. Governments need to tightly regulate the laws and set up tailored programs to tackle this specific issue in this region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: While the patterns of consumption of areca nut and its by-products (ANBP) vary across South Asia and the rest of the world, all users share the probable severe outcome of oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF), and this is well reported. The role of psychosocial drivers of habit initiation and addiction is reported less. Objective: To reveal the burden of ANBP abuse, exploring the psychosocial relationship between sex, age at first exposure (AFE), the reason for initiation (RFI) with the type of habit (TOH). Methodology: Data came from the prospective hospital-based study conducted at K.M. Shah Dental College and Hospital covering years 2017 and 2018. Patients with oral lesions were assessed with complete history recording demographics, TOH, AFE, RFI, duration of habit, and clinical diagnosis of any oral and systemic diseases. Patients with a history of scleroderma, facial burns, and oral malignancy were excluded. Results: Of the 13,874 patients, 9.89% reported ANBP. We included 1000 OSMF patients. The mean age of the study cohort was 38.97 ± 14.29 years, with a range of 17–75 years. Males constituted the majority (80.1%). The most common TOH reported was regular use of gutkha (60.1%) followed by mawa (31.4%) with tension and stress (30.3%) being the most common RFI among the cohort. TOH was notably different in relation to AFE. Interestingly, mawa chewing (38.69%) was observed more in females. Importance: This study reveals the burden of ANBP abuse and reports the complex psychosocial relationships between sex, AFE, and RFI with TOH in OSMF patients in this high incidence population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) is a premalignant condition associated with chewing areca nut and tobacco products. We observed increased fluoride levels in some OSMF-endemic regions,and the observation suggested that fluoride exposure may contribute to its pathogenesis. This study aimed to assess the fluoride content of various smokeless tobacco items as a potential influencing source. Fluoride concentration was analysed in commercial areca nut products, including gutkha, pan masala, and raw areca nut, along with tobacco, slaked lime, and catechu samples from Karnataka, India. Fluoride was measured using alkali fusion and the ion selective electrode method. All products showed high fluoride, with catechu having the highest mean concentration at 51.20 mg/kg, followed by tobacco, gutkha, pan masala, processed areca nut, and raw areca nut. Fluoride was also elevated in soil, but not in water. The findings demonstrate substantial fluoride levels in popular types of smokeless tobacco, and highlight an overlooked source of exposure among consumers of gutkha, pan masala and similar oral tobacco-products. The fluoride content warrants an investigation of potential links with the occurrence and severity of OSMF., (Copyright © 2023 The British Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. All rights reserved.)

To assess the effect of planting density and irrigation in cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) during its critical growth stages such as flowering and fruit set on, growth, yield, water-use efficiency and farm income, a field experiment was initiated in a split-plot design in 2011 at Puttur, Karnataka, India. The main plot consisted of three planting densities namely, 5 × 4 m, 6 × 4 m and 10 × 5 m. The irrigation treatments were imposed in subplots as, irrigation at 60% cumulative pan evaporation (CPE), at 40% CPE, at 20% CPE, irrigation once in 15 days, soil and water conservation technique, and control (without any irrigation or soil water conservation technique). The results indicated that the growth, raw cashew nut yield and net income during 5th and 6th year of plantation of cashew increased with increase in planting density per unit area. The average increase in nut yield under high density planting ranged from 75 to 81% compared to normal density planting. Irrigation using drip system from December to March at 20% CPE and 40% CPE was beneficial to increase the nut yield by 53.5% and 34.1% compared to control. The yield increase under soil and water conservation practice was 12.9%, and 59.7% under irrigation once in 15 days. The increased planting density was beneficial to increase the net income and benefit–cost ratio. The deficit irrigation practices were useful to increase the water-use efficiency in cashew. Widely spaced trees showed increased water-use efficiency compared to high-density planting. Overall, the study demonstrated the usefulness of increased planting density and appropriate irrigation practices to increase yield and net income from cashew orchards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Urolithiasis is one of the most common disorders of the urinary tract. In India, 12% of the population is anticipated to have urolithiasis. Out of which 50% can end up with the renal damage. This study aimed to identify the dietary and lifestyle risk factors of urolithiasis in a tertiary care Hospital of South India. Materials and Methods: A case control study was conducted among 484 (242 cases and 242 controls) patients attending the outpatient and inpatient departments of tertiary care hospital. Cases were matched on age and gender with controls. The data were collected between 28th December 2017 and 16th March 2018. The nonprobability purposive sampling technique was used. Results: The study showed statistically significant association between urolithiasis and consumption of tea (p=0.005), duration of high blood pressure (p=0.030) frequency of pickle intake in a week (p=0.007), salted nuts (p=0.001), condiments (p=0.003), frequency of meat intake in a week (p=0.001) and milk products (p=0.003). The odds of having urolithiasis among those who did not consume salted nuts is 2.139 times less than among those who consume salted nuts (OR=2.139, CI=1.112, 4.113). Other dietary factors such as intake of tea (OR=.463, CI=.259, .827), intake of pickle (OR=0.762, CI=.629, .923), and milk products (OR=0.485, CI=.310, .759) were had a reduced chance of getting urolithiasis. Discussion and Conclusion: The study concludes that, intake of salted nuts can lead to a significant increase in the risk of urolithiasis as compared to other risk factors such as consumption of tea, milk products and intake of pickle. And also is more seen in the age group of 41-65 years and being male gender. Even though urolithiasis is caused by several factors, it will be different from one geographical area to other. Patients, family and communities should be educated about the occurrence of disease and related risk factors and has to be followed in their daily life [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cashew industry is a prominent agro based, export oriented and traditional industry which provide employment and income for the economic development of Kerala. There are lakhs of workers engaged in the cashew processing industry; about ninety three percent are women workers. The performance of cashew in the international scenario reveals the position with which the cashew holds among the agricultural commodities. India is the first country which commercialized cashew as a horticultural crop. India's raw nut production is not sufficient to sustain the processing capacity established in the country. The low yielding old aged cashew trees are needed to be replaced with cashew grafts of high yielding varieties along with adoption of improved production technologies. Higher productivity as well as production is the urgent need for all the major producers of cashew across the globe. The scrutiny of cashew productivity data in India over the last few years indicated stagnation and there was a wide gap existing between the actual and potential yields. It is essential that India should keep pace and meet the requirement of raw cashew nuts for cashew processing industries and achieve self sufficiency. The present paper examines the performance of cashew sector in terms of area, production and productivity in India and Kerala. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) commonly seen in the South Asian countries is mostly associated with the chewing of areca nut (AN). Copper content in the AN has been implicated to play a major role in the pathogenesis of OSMF. It was found that most of the AN plantations in South India commonly use a copper-based fungicide, Bordeaux mixture (BM).Objective: To evaluate the level of copper in the AN, root, and soil of the AN plantation with and without the application of BM and to correlate the role of copper in the pathogenesis of OSMF.Materials and Methods: ANs, roots, and soil were obtained from plantations located in Tanniadi, Kerala. Four areas were selected from the plantation with and without BM application. The samples were collected twice with the interval of 6 months during January 2015 and July 2015, respectively.Statistical Analysis: Arithmetic mean and standard deviation were calculated. The differences between means were calculated by paired sample t-test.Results: There was statistically significant difference in the copper content of ANs, soil, and roots from both groups (P < 0.05). Samples treated with BM showed significantly higher copper levels as compared to their counterparts in January and July 2015.Conclusions: External copper from BM and increased processing for the commercial products could collectively increase the total copper content of the commercial AN products, and this high copper concentration may be implicated to the pathogenesis and the increasing prevalence of OSMF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the ocular manifestations and visual outcomes of ocular injury by arecanut. Methods: We analysed cases with ocular injury by arecanut from August 2018 to December 2019, retrospectively. Mode of injury, visual acuity and ocular manifestations of trauma were recorded. Results: Out of the 40 cases, closed globe injuries were seen in 97.5% of cases. All the injuries were due to the direct impact of arecanut during harvesting. The mean age was 45.15 ± 12.84 years. The mean best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at presentation was 20/40. A significant number of cases (35%) required surgical intervention. Mean BCVA at final follow-up was 20/30 but 16.66% of cases had BCVA of <20/60 even after definitive therapy. Conclusion: Ocular trauma due to arecanut is an important and preventable cause of visual impairment in central Karnataka. Modifications in harvesting technique would prevent ocular injuries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is increasing evidence that nut consumption decreases the risk of cardiovascular disease. However, there are few data on the health effects of cashew nuts among adults with type 2 diabetes (T2DM).Objective: The study aimed to investigate the effects of cashew nut supplementation on glycemia, body weight, blood pressure, and lipid profile in Asian Indians with T2DM.Methods: In a parallel-arm, randomized controlled trial, 300 adults with T2DM [mean ± SD age: 51 ± 9.3 y; body mass index (BMI; in kg/m2): 26.0 ± 3.4; 55% male] were randomly assigned to receive advice to follow a standard diabetic diet (control) or similar advice plus 30 g cashew nuts/d (intervention) for 12 wk. The macronutrient composition of the prescribed diabetic diet was 60-65% energy from carbohydrates, 15-25% from fat, and the rest from protein. Differences between groups in changes in anthropometric and biochemical variables were analyzed using linear models with robust variance estimation under an assumed independence working correlation.Results: Participants in the intervention group had a greater decrease in systolic blood pressure from baseline to 12 wk than did controls (-4.9 ± 13.7 compared with -1.7 ± 11.6 mm Hg; P = 0.04) and a greater increase in plasma HDL cholesterol compared with controls (+1.7 ± 5.6 compared with +0.1 ± 4.6 mg/dL; P = 0.01). There were no differences between the groups with respect to changes in body weight, BMI, blood lipid, and glycemic variables. Plasma oleic acid concentrations and self-reported dietary intake of nuts, oleic acid, and monounsaturated fatty acids suggested excellent compliance with the nut consumption.Conclusion: Cashew nut supplementation in Asian Indians with T2DM reduced systolic blood pressure and increased HDL cholesterol concentrations with no deleterious effects on body weight, glycemia, or other lipid variables. This study was registered at the clinical trial registry of India as CTRI/2017/07/009022. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fruit rot disease (FRD) of arecanut, caused by Phytophthora meadii , is an important fruit disease of this palm tree that resulted in huge economic losses to the growers in India. In recent years, the control of this disease has become a prime factor in the management of arecanut plantations. Though prophylactic sprayings of Bordeaux mixture (1%) along with other older fungicides are useful in reducing the disease severity. Hence, there is an urgent need for new generation molecules to combat FRD under field conditions. The present investigation was aimed at evaluating newer oomycete-specific fungicides in in-vitro on different life stages of Phytophthora and in-vivo through a Bunch Spraying System (BSS) from ground level. The pathogen was isolated, identified, and characterized from varied regions and one virulent isolate from each region was used. Out of the 11 fungicides tested, EC 50 for mycelial inhibition among isolates was lowest in Famoxadone + Cymoxanil. Similarly, the lowest EC 50 for sporangial production was recorded in Iprovalicarb + Propineb, Famoxadone + Cymoxanil, and Kresoxymethyl ranging from 210.70 to 517.87 mg mL_1. The most effective fungicide for inhibition of zoospore release was Dimethomorph + Mancozeb which ranged from 406.81 to 565.80 mg mL_1. Bunch spraying of fungicides such as Bordeaux mixture (1%), mandipropamid (0.5%), fosetyl-Al (0.3%), and a combination of metalaxyl-mancozeb (0.2%) from ground level had a significant (P < 0.05) effect against FRD. These fungicides were found most effective in reducing the disease up to an extent of 65–70% and which in turn increased the dry nut yield by 75–95% when applied twice compared to untreated control. However, a semi-systemic fungicide mandipropamid could be a potential alternative to the Bordeaux mixture for effective control of FRD under field conditions. • New-generation oomycete-specific fungicides were evaluated in-vitro and in-vivo. • Semi-systemic Mandipropamid could be a potential alternative to BM in FRD control. • Spraying of fungicides reduced 65–75% of disease with increased dry nut yield. • Bunch spraying system could be adopted in arecanut to realize better FRD control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ability to manipulate objects enables macaques to utilize resources well. Coconut ( Cocos nucifera ) is one such food that has high energy and nutrient value but requires complex motor skills for extraction. In this study, we examined the proficiency of a single group of Macaca fascicularis umbrosus from Campbell Bay, India, in feeding on different types of coconuts. The group comprised 16 individuals with 3 adult males, 6 adult females, 3 sub-adult males, and 4 infants. We observed individuals feeding on tender, mature, dry, and dry-dehusked coconuts in 90 feeding bouts between August 2013 and December 2015. Their feeding behaviour was divided into four types of behavioural acts: pluck, process, drink, and feed. We prepared an ethogram consisting of 32 behavioural acts associated with feeding on coconuts, and recorded the occurrence of these acts during focal animal sampling. We used NMDS to examine differences among age/sex classes in the occurrence of behavioural acts associated with feeding on coconuts. Although females and males showed no significant separation in these behaviours, adults and young individuals formed distinct groups. However, only 3 out of 32 acts were exclusive to age classes. Using Discrete Time Markov Chain analysis, we found that adults tended to transition back to processing behaviours after drinking and feeding behaviours more often than young individuals. An almost similar repertoire of behaviours among age and sex classes indicates that there is no single model behaviour. Further, this study indicates that among different age/sex classes, adults tend to maximise the nutritional gains during single feeding bouts than younger individuals.

Objectives: Previous studies have demonstrated beneficial effects of regular consumption of pistachio nuts on glycemic, lipid, and oxidative stress parameters. The aim of this study was to determine its effect on vascular health, which has not been adequately studied so far. Methods: In this open label, randomized parallel-group study, 60 adults with mild dyslipidemia were randomized to lifestyle modification (LSM) alone or LSM with consumption of 80 g (in-shell) pistachios (equivalent to 40 g or 1.5 oz shelled pistachios) daily for 3 mo. Biochemical parameters, brachial artery flow-mediated vasodilation (BAFMD), and carotid-femoral and brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (cfPWV and baPWV, respectively) were measured before and after the intervention. Results: At 3 mo, there was no change in any of the clinical or biochemical parameters in the LSM group. However, the patients in the pistachio group had a significant increase in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C; 35.7 ± 8.8 mg/dL versus 37.8 ± 10.1 mg/dL; P = 0.04) and a reduction in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (137.2 ± 32.6 mg/dL versus 127.6 ± 34.0 mg/dL; P = 0.02), total cholesterol (TC)-to-HDL-C ratio (5.8 ± 1.3 mg/dL versus 5.3 ± 1.1 mg/dL; P = 0.001), and fasting blood sugar (88.8 ± 7.1 mg/dL versus 86.6 ± 6.3 mg/dL; P = 0.05). Additionally, whereas LSM alone was associated with no improvement in BAFMD or PWV, individuals in the pistachio group had significant reduction in left baPWV (1261.7 ± 187.5 cm/sec versus 1192.4 ± 152.5 cm/sec; P = 0.02) and statistically nonsignificant improvement in most other parameters, including BAFMD. As a result, at 3 mo the patients in the pistachio group had lower cfPWV (770.9 ± 96.5 cm/sec versus 846.4 ± 162.0 cm/sec; P = 0.08), lower left baPWV (1192.4 ± 152.5 cm/sec versus 1326.3 ± 253.7 cm/sec; P = 0.05), and lower average baPWV (1208.2 ± 118.4 cm/sec versus 1295.8 ± 194.1 cm/sec; P = 0.08) compared with the LSM group. Two-way analysis of variance revealed significant treatment effect of pistachio consumption on cfPWV, left baPWV, average baPWV, and BAFMD (P = 0.037, 0.01, 0.07, and 0.046, respectively). Conclusions: The present study demonstrates that regular consumption of pistachio nuts not only improves glycemic and lipid parameters, but also results in improvements in vascular stiffness and endothelial function. Importantly, these improvements were seen in apparently healthy individuals and with a diet (including pistachios) and exercise regimen that every adult individual is expected to follow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of pistachio nuts as an adjunct to diet and exercise on body composition, metabolic, inflammatory, and oxidative stress parameters in Asian Indians with metabolic syndrome. Methods: In this 24-wk randomized control trial, 60 individuals with the metabolic syndrome were randomized to either pistachio (intervention group) or control group (diet as per weight and physical activity profile, modulated according to dietary guidelines for Asian Indians) after 3 wk of a diet and exercise run in. In the first group, unsalted pistachios (20% energy) were given daily. A standard diet and exercise protocol was followed for both groups. Body weight, waist circumference (WC), magnetic resonance imaging estimation of intraabdominal adipose tissue and subcutaneous abdominal adipose tissue, fasting blood glucose (FBG), fasting serum insulin, glycosylated hemoglobin, lipid profile, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), adiponectin, free fatty acids (FFAs), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, leptin, and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) were assessed before and after the intervention. Results: Statistically significant improvement in mean values for various parameters in the intervention group compared with control group were as follows: WC (P < 0.02), FBG (P < 0.04), total cholesterol (P < 0.02), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (P < 0.006), hs-CRP (P < 0.05), TNF-α (P < 0.03), FFAs (P < 0.001), TBARS (P < 0.01), and adiponectin levels (P < 0.001). Conclusion: A single food intervention with pistachios leads to beneficial effects on the car-diometabolic profile of Asian Indians with metabolic syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Betel leaf combined with areca nut is known as betel quid pan masala (PM), and tobacco with areca nut, catechu and lime is pan masala (PMT) blended with gulkhand. These narcotics are popular among young and old individuals. A prima facia chemical analysis and a toxicity assessment of PM in mice were conducted to study the relationship between longtime consumption of PM and health hazards. Materials and Methods: Chemical analysis of different types of PM was done employing HPLC , GLC, AAS, ES, TLC, GCMS and sequential extraction for PAH, pesticides, metals and minerals, electrolytes, drugs and xenobiotics. Ethanolic PM extracts were tested by IP and PO routes in inbred Swiss mice. Results: PAH, which are known xenobiotics for pre-cancerous lesions, were significantly high (p<0.01) in Rajaniganda and Pan Parag Zarda. Isomers of DDT and BHC, which principally act on nerves and muscles, were also high (p<0.01) in PM. The enhanced metal and mineral content of PM results in massive oral fibrosis. There is a high level of narcotics in PM, especially nicotine, a potentially cancerous agent in the gastrointestinal tract. Conclusion: Experimental studies with different extracts of plain and blended PM in mice fed for 16 and 90 days revealed no effect on blood and organ weights (kidney, heart, spleen and liver), but we did observe attenuated testis. However, in the bone marrow of the mice, chromosomes were most affected in the mice fed PM-Zarda blend for 3 months. The chromosomal abnormalities included ploidy, loss, breaks, gaps, deletions and exchanges in ring chromosomes. The PM caused sperm head anomalies (narrow, blunt, triangular and banana shapes), and the sperm were irregular, amorphous, tailless and rudimentary, with the maximum effect among the groups fed PM for 3 months. Significantly higher levels (p<0.01) of testis glycogen, cholesterol and protein were found. The group fed for 16 days showed no change in red blood corpuscles (RBC), white blood corpuscles (WBC), hemoglobin and erythrocyte sedimentation counts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Groundnut and sesame seeds are important oil seed crops in India. Oil seeds after extraction of oil produce meal, which is considerably rich in protein and are used as a fodder. Commercially available ground nut meal and sesame meal samples were analysed for dry matter, moisture, total ash, crude fibre, crude protein, carbohydrate, total lipids, tannin and minerals. Groundnut meal was found to have high moisture content, crude fibre, crude protein and tannin content. Sesame meal was found to be rich in mineral content except iron. Both the meals were found to have nutritional qualities and could be used as low cost nutritional supplement for human consumption after refining in developing countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fourteen wild edible berries, fruits, roots, and nuts consumed by the Khasi tribe of Meghalaya were botanically identified and analyzed for their nutrient contents in terms of macronutrients, minerals, and vitamins. The study revealed that Coix lachryma jobi, a nut, was rich in protein (13.3 g %), Z anthoxylum acanthopodium a spice, rich in fat (20.9 g %), and Solanum indicum a berry, rich in crude fiber (47.2 g %). Castanopsis indica a nut, contained good amounts of calcium (1540 mg %), Kaempfaria galanga a root, considerable amounts of iron (69.91 mg %) and zinc (8.4 mg %), and Vangeria spinosa a fruit, a good amount of zinc (23.0 mg %). The berry Solanum indicum contained 826.4 mg % of vitamin C, whereas Prunus nepalensis contained ß-carotene (257.1 µg %) and vitamin C (608.9 mg %). It can be concluded that the wild edibles eaten by the Khasi are a good source of nutrients, and considering their low cost and easy availability, need to be popularized and recommended for commercial exploitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Areca nut is one of the most widely consumed substances globally, after nicotine, ethanol and caffeine and classified as carcinogenic to humans. This study examines the disparity and determinants of areca nut consumption with and without tobacco in India., Design: Nationally representative cross-sectional study., Participants: We used the nationally representative Global Adult Tobacco Survey 2016-2017. The analytical sample size was 74 037 individual's aged 15 years and above with a response rate of 92.9%., Measures: Current consumption of areca nut without tobacco and with tobacco., Method: We examined determinants of areca nut consumption (without tobacco and with tobacco) using multinomial logistic regression, accounting for the survey design., Results: About 23.9% (95% CI 23.1 to 24.8) of the adult population consume areca nut, that is, approximately 223.79 million people in India; majority of users (14.2%-95% CI 13.5 to 14.9) consumed areca nut with tobacco. When compared with women, men were more likely to consume areca nut (with tobacco relative risk (RR)=2.02; 95% CI 1.85 to 2.21 and without tobacco RR=1.13; 95% CI 1.07 to 1.20). Age, marital status, education, occupation, caste, religion and region were significantly associated with areca nut consumption. However, the direction and magnitude of association differ with respect to the areca nut consumption with and without tobacco., Conclusion: The ongoing tobacco control efforts would not address the majority of areca nut users until greater attention to areca nut consumption with and without tobacco is reflected in health policies in India., Competing Interests: Competing interests: None declared., (© Author(s) (or their employer(s)) 2021. Re-use permitted under CC BY-NC. No commercial re-use. See rights and permissions. Published by BMJ.)

Consumption of areca nut products is the most common cause of oral cancers, particularly in South Asian countries. This study evaluates the cytotoxic and necrotizing effects of areca nut and its formulations on normal human gingival fibroblasts (HGF-1) and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC, CAL-27) cell lines. Identification of various carcinogens and adulterants using LC-HR-ESI-MS/MS analysis was performed in the extracts of areca nut and its products. Apart from alkaloids and flavonoids, a major adulterant, saccharin was found in all the samples of chalia (one of the most common chewing products of areca nut) in the ranges between 1.697-7.170 mg/g of the sample. Cytotoxic studies showed that most of the areca nut products were found cytotoxic to HGF-1 cells while being relatively non-cytotoxic against CAL-27 cells, rather they promote the growth of cancer cells. Our findings revealed that the components of areca nut and its products were injurious to HGF-1 cells and caused necrosis, which may attenuate HGF-1 protection toward oral epithelial cells. Moreover, the non-cytotoxic effect of these products on cancer cell lines suggests further predisposal of the habitual chewers for developing oral carcinomas. This study will give a better understanding of the hazardous effects of areca nut products., (Copyright © 2020. Published by Elsevier B.V.)

The objective of this study was to examine the bioactive flavonoids and carotenoids concentration in fifteen south Indian spice and two tree nut species using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Among four flavonoids, catechin concentration was the highest in all spices and nuts and ranged between 97.1 and 1745.4 µg g -1 . Quercetin concentration was the greatest in cinnamon, followed by garlic and cumin and ranged from 0.4 to 65 µg g -1 in other spices and nuts. Lutein concentration ranged from 0.1 to 102.8 µg g -1 . Of the spices and nuts studied, β-carotene concentration was highest in coriander leaves (74.7 µg g -1 ), followed by red pepper (12.5 µg g -1 ) and curry leaves (8.5 µg g -1 ). This research shows that consumption of south Indian spices and nuts could substantially benefit consumers living in regions experiencing Vitamin A and other micronutrient deficiencies.

Background: Areca nut (AN) and betel quid (BQ) chewing are ancient practices followed by an extensive proportion of the world's population. These practices are endemic in larger parts of South and Southeast Asia and selected Western Pacific countries. The prevalence of these habits varies across regions, age, gender, cultural practice, and socioeconomic status groups. Considerable variations exist between countries with respect to prevention/intervention programs, and policy guidelines of BQ usage. Objectives: (1) To provide an overview of the BQ chewing prevalence, practices, preventive interventions and policies in selected Asian and Western Pacific countries. (2) To explore the different terminologies associated with BQ use. Method: A narrative review of the current literature related to BQ, AN, and oral cancer was conducted by searching PUBMED, CINAHL, and GOOGLE databases. Results: The literature review revealed that the prevalence of BQ was found to be highest in Papua New Guinea, followed by Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Myanmar and Sri Lanka. While, Cambodia, Malaysia, Indonesia and Taiwan had comparatively lower prevalence. Smokeless tobacco, BQ with tobacco, BQ without tobacco, AN were some of the terminologies used for BQ in various studies. Conclusions: The prevalence, and the interventional policies related to BQ and AN chewing habits varies widely among the selected countries. With the increasing awareness and association of BQ with oral cancer, there is a need to have better awareness, prevention and interventional strategies in place. We also found considerable variation in the use of terminologies associated with BQ.

Areca nut (AN), commonly known as "Supari" in India is an addictive substance and widely consumed with or without tobacco as a part of customs in many South East Asian countries. Owing to the adverse health effects of AN, public awareness and stringent government policies to prohibit AN production and regulation of products containing AN should be addressed without further delay. Lack of a research database, motivated us to develop a comprehensive online portal on global survey of published articles with reference to AN. The Areca nut database (ANDB) is a manually curated database which provides the information on global literature according to the publication year, author, population, harmful effects, and associated disease. The present study is an attempt to deliver the relevant information which would be helpful to researchers in prioritizing the research areas with respect to AN and associated health effects. The portal has been developed in MySQL and the interface has been designed using core PhP and CSS, HTML. ANDB is an online resource available to provide global literature of AN in a user-friendly manner. It can be accessed freely on http://arecanut.icmr.org.in/. To the best of our knowledge, ANDB is the first portal delivering inclusive scientific literature related to AN and its health effects. This evidence-based scientific information would be useful for policy makers to make guidelines for increasing awareness and implementing the laws for regulated use of this potentially carcinogenic substance, thereby controlling the burden of many dreaded diseases primarily oral submucous fibrosis, cardiovascular disease, and cancers.

Objectives: Tobacco and areca nut are two of the most widely used psychoactive plant substances worldwide, yet the biocultural factors that account for variation in use patterns are not well understood. Here we attempt to understand the high prevalence of, and variation in, tobacco and areca nut use among reproductive-aged women., Methods: Research was carried out in Mysore, Karnataka, India. First, we conducted a qualitative investigation where participants engaged in semistructured interviews and focus group discussions to uncover cultural norms of women's tobacco use. Findings informed the second stage of research which quantitatively tested three models of tobacco and areca nut use (N = 74)., Results: The qualitative study found that women were more likely to chew "natural" forms of tobacco and areca nut products (kaddipudi and paan). Quantitative tests of our hypotheses revealed that kaddipudi and combined tobacco use were best explained by the self-medication model, with somatic and environmental stress as strong indicators of use. The presence of cotinine, our biological indicator of tobacco use, was best modeled by gender inequality. We also found that men and women reported approximately equal tobacco use, even though their preferred types of tobacco and areca nut products differed., Conclusions: Findings did not support the protection hypothesis as it relates to plant toxins. Instead, this study suggests that women might exploit neurotoxins such as nicotine and arecoline to offset the cognitive and energetic costs associated with iron deficiency in stressful environments., (© 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

Background: Oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) commonly seen in the South Asian countries is mostly associated with the chewing of areca nut (AN). Copper content in the AN has been implicated to play a major role in the pathogenesis of OSMF. It was found that most of the AN plantations in South India commonly use a copper-based fungicide, Bordeaux mixture (BM)., Objective: To evaluate the level of copper in the AN, root, and soil of the AN plantation with and without the application of BM and to correlate the role of copper in the pathogenesis of OSMF., Materials and Methods: ANs, roots, and soil were obtained from plantations located in Tanniadi, Kerala. Four areas were selected from the plantation with and without BM application. The samples were collected twice with the interval of 6 months during January 2015 and July 2015, respectively., Statistical Analysis: Arithmetic mean and standard deviation were calculated. The differences between means were calculated by paired sample t-test., Results: There was statistically significant difference in the copper content of ANs, soil, and roots from both groups (P < 0.05). Samples treated with BM showed significantly higher copper levels as compared to their counterparts in January and July 2015., Conclusions: External copper from BM and increased processing for the commercial products could collectively increase the total copper content of the commercial AN products, and this high copper concentration may be implicated to the pathogenesis and the increasing prevalence of OSMF., Competing Interests: None

Background and Objectives: Some cereals, consumed at breakfast, have shown lower glycemic responses. Limited data exist in the Indian context, where the effect could be modified due to genetic or racial differences. This study aimed to investigate the effect of cereal and milk, with or without fruits/nuts, on the glycemic response in healthy Indian men., Methods and Study Design: A randomized cross-over study was carried out on 16 men (18 - 45 years), with 3 interventions providing equal amounts of glycemic carbohydrate: a glucose drink (Reference), cereal and milk (CM), and cereal, milk, fruits and nuts (CMO), on separate days. Plasma glucose, serum insulin, C-peptide, ghrelin, energy expenditure (EE), substrate oxidation and appetite/satiety were measured repeatedly over 3 hours post meal., Results: A significant time effect and time x meal interaction between the meals, higher for the Reference meal, was observed for plasma glucose (p<0.001), insulin (p<0.001), C-peptide (p<0.001), and carbohydrate oxidation (p<0.001); while lower for satiety (p<0.001). The plasma glucose concentrations of CM and CMO meals returned to baseline 60 min postprandially, then remained there, unlike the Reference meal, where the plasma glucose values returned to baseline at 120 min and dipped significantly below baseline at 150 and 180 min. A significant effect of time (p<0.001) was observed for EE between meals. Ghrelin levels did not differ significantly between the test meals., Conclusions: Cereal with milk, along with fruits and nuts at breakfast, has a lower and stable glycemic response, along with increased satiety among healthy male subjects.

Background: Type 2 diabetes (T2D) statistics have reached menacing proportions in India. Appropriate dietary intervention, as part of healthy lifestyle, is imperative to curb further spread of this disease., Objectives: This pre-post intervention study was conducted in New Delhi, India, to investigate the effects of daily consumption of almonds for 24 weeks in T2D subjects, specifically on measures of glycemia and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors., Methods and Study Design: In this study, the 24-week intervention period was preceded by a control diet and exercise run-in period of 3 weeks. Raw almonds (20% of energy intake) were provided to the patients for consumption along with diet and physical activity counseling. Patients were assessed for anthropometry, blood pressure, measures of glycemia (fasting blood glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin), lipids [total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, lipoprotein(a)], surrogate marker of atherosclerosis (Pulse wave velocity), and marker of inflammation (high sensitivity C-reactive protein [hs-CRP]) at baseline and after the intervention period., Results: Statistically significant improvement in mean values for various parameters post intervention was as follows: waist circumference (P < 0.03), waist-to-height ratio (P < 0.005), TC (P < 0.002), serum triglycerides (P < 0.004), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (P < 0.01), glycosylated hemoglobin (P < 0.04), and hs-CRP (P < 0.01). A trend toward improvement in pulse wave velocity (P < 0.06) was also observed., Conclusion: The study findings illustrate that incorporation of almonds in a well-balanced healthy diet leads to multiple beneficial effects on glycemic and CVDs risk factors in Asian Indian patients with T2D.

Purpose: To assess the practices and behaviour among Betel nut users in Ghaziabad and to detect the clinically associated oral mucosal lesions and conditions., Materials and Methods: A community-based survey was conducted in Ghaziabad among 332 betel nut users. Data on betel nut use was obtained through a self-administered questionnaire. Oral mucosal lesions and conditions were recorded using WHO criteria., Results: Out of 332 betel nut users, 32.8% consumed Gutkha. 62.3% users used betel nut with tobacco. Most of the study population started chewing betel nut because of peer pressure and the habit started at the workplace or school. A majority found that there was no physical discomfort due to the habit. The significant oral diseases detected were oral leukoplakia in 11.7% and oral submucous fibrosis in 6.1% of individuals., Conclusion: The findings of the present study revealed that 74.7% of the participants were current chewers. 30.4% of all participants had oral mucosal lesions and conditions.

Aim: The purpose of this study was to detect the C-deletion mutation of the p53 gene at exon 4 of codon 63 in the saliva of oral squamous cell carcinoma in central India., Methods: The study was carried out in 30 oral squamous cell carcinoma cases and five healthy controls with no habit of betel nut and tobacco chewing. The C-deletion mutation of the p53 gene at exon 4 of codon 63 was detected in the saliva samples by using polymerase chain reaction., Results: In this study, C-deletion at exon 4 of codon 63 was detected in 28 of 30 oral squamous cell carcinoma cases (93.33%), but was negative in all five healthy controls and two oral squamous cell carcinoma cases., Conclusions: The results indicated that C-deletion mutation at exon 4 of codon 63 of the p53 gene in the saliva might be a plausible molecular marker for oral squamous cell carcinoma patients with a habit of betel nut and tobacco lime quid chewing. The results further emphasize the presence of p53 gene mutation in patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma, which can be detected in the saliva through polymerase chain reaction., (© 2010 Blackwell Publishing Asia Pty Ltd.)

Background: Areca nut is the fourth main psychoactive substance in the world. In India, tobacco is added to the quid and the commercially manufactured nonperishable forms of betel quid (pan masala or gutkha) are on the rise in the market., Objective: To find out the prevalence of areca nut among the rural residents of Sriperambudur Taluk., Settings and Design: A community-based survey using pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire., Materials and Methods: The survey was conducted in 2 villages and their colonies, which were randomly selected out of 168 villages. Data was collected from 500 residents of the study population. The survey was conducted for a period of 2 months., Statistical Analysis: SPSS version 10.0., Results: The study participants were more likely to initiate areca nut use by 22 years of age. As many as 19.8% (n = 99) of the study participants chewed areca nut products, out of whom 11.2% (n = 56) indulged in chewing habit alone (areca nut products). Areca nut use was higher among male study subjects compared to females. The commercial forms of areca nut products (gutkha) were the most prevalent ones [47.5% (n = 47) of those who used areca nut] observed in the community. Compared to female participants, male participants were more likely to perceive areca nut use as the most harmful habit draining the community health and wealth., Conclusion: There seems to be an increase in the prevalence of areca nut use. The community also perceives it to be a harmful habit. Therefore, effective interventions should be targeted towards the high-risk subpopulation of the community to decrease the prevalence of areca nut use in rural Tamil Nadu.