Catalyst driven optical properties of the self-assembled ZnS nanostructures

In this paper, we present the effect of different catalysts (Mn, Au and Sn) on the room temperature photoluminescence and Raman spectra of VLS grown ZnS nanostructures. The catalysts found to self-dope the ZnS nanostructures during its growth were confirmed by XRD and XPS results. The extent of self-doping, which depended on the type and size of catalysts, was observed strongly to have affected the optical properties of ZnS nanostructures, particularly intrinsic defects like S and Zn vacancies. Intense broad bands in the visible due to intrinsic defects, namely Zn and S vacancies were observed, which were quite different for each catalyst as well as for the size of the catalyst. Au and Mn catalyzed ZnS nanostructures also showed creation of catalyst related defects, which were absent in the case of Sn. From the PL spectra, an estimation of the Zn and S vacancies was made for each type of catalyzed ZnS nanostructures. Surface optic (SO) phonon modes of the ZnS nanostructures were also observed to behave differently for the three catalysts. The dielectric continuum model was applied to determine the correlation length and variation in the surface potential modulations in these nanostructures. It was deduced from optical studies that the location of dopant in self-doped ZnS nanostructures strongly affected the luminescence properties. Finally it was concluded that self-doping using a suitable catalyst can be a simple and controllable way to dope ZnS nanostructures with tailored optical characteristics.

Determination of genetic variation among chickpea genotypes and their F₁ crosses with RAPD markers

The intensity of genetic diversity amongst chickpea genotypes and their crosses is unknown. The current study investigated the genetic diversity of chickpea genotypes and their F₁ crosses by using random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers. We assessed the variation among six chickpea genotypes and 15 F₁ crosses with the RAPD markers. The six parents and their 21 hybrids were carefully studied based on the presence or absence of bands. The level of polymorphism varied with different primers. Out 28 primers used, 21 amplified the genomic DNA in all the varieties, 15 generated polymorphic bands among all the varieties, and six produced similar banding patterns.

Intensity of parasitic infestation in silver carp, Hypophthalmichthys molitrix

Silver carp, Hypopthalmichthys molitrix is one of the most economically valuable fish species in Bangladesh. However, its production is often hindered by parasite-induced mortality. The present study reports the intensity of parasitic infestation in 216 specimens of H. molitrix collected from different fish markets in Rajshahi City, Bangladesh. Nine different parasite species (Trichodina pediculatus, Dactylogyrus vastator, Ichthyophthirius multifilis, Gyrodactylus elegans, Lernaea sp., Apiosoma sp., Myxobolus rohitae, Camallanus ophiocephali, and Pallisentis ophiocephali) were recovered from the gill, skin, stomach, and intestine of host fish. The highest level of infection was observed for host skin, while lower levels were observed for host gill, stomach, and intestine. The results also revealed that the intensity of parasite infection in different organs of H. molitrix varied with the season. In particular, the highest levels of infection were recorded during the winter period (November-February), when fish are most susceptible to parasites. The findings of the study will help in the management and conservation of H. molitrix.

White matter integrity in physically fit older adults

BACKGROUND

White matter (WM) integrity declines with normal aging. Physical activity may attenuate age-related WM integrity changes and improve cognitive function. This study examined brain WM integrity in Masters athletes who have engaged in life-long aerobic exercise training. We tested the hypothesis that life-long aerobic training is associated with improved brain WM integrity in older adults.

METHODS

Ten Masters athletes (3 females, age=72.2 ± 5.3 years, endurance training >15 years) and 10 sedentary older adults similar in age and educational level (2 females, age=74.5 ± 4.3 years) participated. MRI fluid-attenuated-inversion-recovery (FLAIR) images were acquired to assess white matter hyperintensities (WMH) volume. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) was performed to evaluate the WM microstructural integrity with a DTI-derived metric, fractional anisotropy (FA) and mean diffusivity (MD).

RESULTS

After normalization to whole-brain volume, Masters athletes showed an 83% reduction in deep WMH volume relative to their sedentary counterparts (0.05 ± 0.05% vs. 0.29 ± 0.29%, p<0.05). In addition, we found an inverse relationship between aerobic fitness (VO2max) and deep WMH volume (r=-0.78, p<0.001). Using TBSS, Masters athletes showed higher FA values in the right superior corona radiata (SCR), both sides of superior longitudinal fasciculus (SLF), right inferior fronto-occipital fasciculus (IFO), and left inferior longitudinal fasciculus (ILF). In addition, Masters athletes also showed lower MD values in the left posterior thalamic radiation (PTR) and left cingulum hippocampus.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that life-long exercise is associated with reduced WMH and may preserve WM fiber microstructural integrity related to motor control and coordination in older adults.

Atrial fibrillation in heart failure: an innocent bystander?

Heart failure (HF) and atrial fibrillation (AF) frequently coexist and each complicates the course of the other. The purpose of this review is to analyse the prognostic impact of AF in patients with HF and assess whether there is an advantage in targeting therapies towards the maintenance of sinus rhythm (SR) in this cohort of patients. The presence of AF in patients with HF has been reported to be independently associated with an increase in mortality in many studies and this increased risk is observed in those with both preserved and impaired LV systolic function. The optimal strategy for targeting AF in patients with HF is unclear but recent randomised controlled studies indicate no significant prognostic advantage associated with a rhythm control strategy as compared to a rate control strategy. A number of small studies have investigated the role of both cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) and AF catheter ablation for the maintenance of / conversion to SR in patients with HF with initial promising results although larger randomised controlled studies will need to be performed to define the role of these modalities in the treatment of this cohort and whether preliminary benefits observed in these studies translate to improvements in longer term prognosis. Finally, there has been a focus on modifying the arrhythmogenic atrial substrate and neurohormonal milieu by pharmacological means in order to prevent AF although it remains to be seen whether this approach proves to be efficacious with improvements in clinically relevant outcomes.

[The application of pulsed magnetic stimulation in the rehabilitation of the children operated for the treatment of grade III-IV scoliosis]

In the present paper, we for the first time provide a rationale for the application of a new physical factor, pulsed magnetic stimulation, in pediatric practice. Our observations have demonstrated positive dynanfics of the parameters characterizing the functional state of the neuro-muscular apparatus and equalization of the amplitude of M-response as appears from the results of electromyographic studies. The data obtained by electrocardiography and estimation of the external respiratory function give evidence of favourable dynamics of the cardio-respiratory system. The results of the study have been used to substantiate the application of a new method of pulsed magnetic stimulation in pediatric medicine at the early stages of rehabilitation of the children following surgical treatment of grade Ill-IV scoliosis.

Socio-Demographic and Clinical Profile of People Living with HIV/AIDS

Although India is in the grip of HIV/AIDS epidemic, not much information is available on socio-demographic and clinical aspects of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA). The present study has been designed with the following objective. Objectives: To assess the socio-demographic and clinical profile of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHAs) in India. Material and methods: The study was carried among 251 HIV/AIDS positive persons attending the out-patients department at the antiretroviral treatment (ART) clinic of the HIV testing centers at three major govt. hospital of Delhi, India. All the patients, male and female in the age range of 20-65 years and willing to participate were included in this study during the period 2007-2009. Written as well as informed consent was obtained for each patient at the time of recruitment. The HIV status was analyzed by ELISA with further confirmation by western blot; CD4/CD8 counts were measured by a flow-cytometer. Statistical analysis was carried out using chi-square test in order to see the association between age groups for various psychological measures and for treatment responses of the participants receiving ART. Results: Majority of the patients (77.7%) were found to be young (<40 years) and married (86.9 %). As high as 61.8% came from low socio-economic class and more than 93.6% acquired HIV transmission through heterosexual routes. A large proportion of these patients reported an extremely high level of anxiety, moderate level of stress and a borderline level of clinical depression. While some of the patients (28.3%) were well-adjusted with the ART, the rest of the patients reported difference in making adjustment with the treatment schedules. Conclusion: The study suggests that counselling and supportive therapy could play a pivotal role in controlling anxiety, stress, depression and rehabilitating people with HIV/AIDS. Thus, proper preventive intervention among general population and establishment of proper laboratory support is recommended. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ajms.v3i2.5039 Asian Journal of Medical Sciences 3(2012) 1-10

Seroprevalence of pediatric malaria in quetta, balochistan, pakistan

BACKGROUND

Malaria is one of the most devastating protozoal diseases in under developing countries like Pakistan where health facilities are scarce. It is the second most frequently reported disease with 4.5 million suspected cases in Pakistan. The current study was designed to determine the incidence of pediatric malaria in Quetta, Balochistan.

METHODS

The study was conducted at Children Hospital Quetta (CHQ) during July 2011march 2012. Blood samples were collected from 3418 clinically suspected and were evaluated using thin and thick blood films stained with Giemsa stain.

RESULTS

Out of 3418 total of 230 (6.72%) children were found positive for any of the malarial parasitic infestation. Plasmodium vivax was observed to be more common 54.34% (n= 125/230) than P. falciparum 44.78% (n = 103/230). Male children were 65.21% (150/230) i.e. two times more commonly affected than female 34.78% (80/230) children. The prevalence among age groups was 7.41% (n = 89/1200) in preschool-aged children aged 1-5 years, 7.11% (n = 75/1054) in school-aged children aged 6-10 years while 6.78% (n = 46/678) in 11-15 years-old children, and 6.66% (n = 20/300) in >15 year-olds children. Peak prevalence was noted in summer and mild in winter. Mixed infection of (0.86%: 2/230) P. vivax and P. falciparum was also observed in two cases although no case of P. malariae or P. ovale infection was seen during entire study.

CONCLUSION

The results reflect the higher prevalence of malaria in Quetta, Pakistan that poses a significant health threat and requires urgent attention of high-ups to launch programme to control the disease in the area.

Otomycosis with Perforated Tympanic Membrane: Self medication with Topical Antifungal Solution versus Medicated Ear Wick

OBJECTIVES

In otomycosis with tympanic membrane perforation, many physicians prefer to insert an ear wick medicated with antimycotic cream. This needs multiple visits to the clinic and keeps the ear blocked for several days. Direct instillation of alcohol based antimycotic solution causes severe burning if it reaches the middle ear. In this work we compare patient's self medication with clotrimazole antimycotic solution used on Q-tips with physician-inserted ear wicks; in terms of safety, efficacy and patient satisfaction. STUDY DESIGN #ENTITYSTARTX00026;

SETTING

Prospective controlled study in ambulatory setting.

METHODOLOGY

Forty consecutive patients with otomycosis with tympanic membrane perforation were included in the study. Diagnosis of otomycosis was both clinical and with mycological culture. Mean pure tone average (PTA) in the involved ear was measured after cleaning fungal debris. Patients were then, randomized into two groups; Q-tip group patients (n=20) were taught to self-medicate their ears two times daily with the clotrimazole solution on suitable Q-tips for three weeks. In ear wick group (n=20), a gauze wick impregnated with clotrimazole cream was inserted in the ear. Wick was changed every third day for two more visits (one week overall). Patients were followed up for 3 months.

RESULTS

After three weeks all patients in Q-tip group and ear wick group had relief of their ear itching and complete disappearance of fungal growth in the deep meatus and on the tympanic membrane. PTA was 22 ± 11dB in Q-tip group and 25 ± 12 dB in ear wick group; the difference was not statistically significant (p= 0.11). Patients in ear wick group had sense of ear blocking and wetness during period of treatment. Transient burning sensation was reported by 2 patients in Q-tip group. During three months, there was recurrence of otomycosis in 5 patients from ear wick group and no recurrence in Q-tip group (p=0.04).

CONCLUSION

Self medication with clotrimazole solution on Q-tips and physician inserted medicated wicks are equally safe in treating otomycosis with perforated tympanic membrane. However, self medication with antimycotic solution on Q-tips gives more patient satisfaction and less rate of otomycosis recurrence.

Postweaning performance of heifers fed starter with and without hay during the milk-feeding period

This study assessed the carryover effects of providing forage during the milk-feeding period on postweaning feed intake and growth of heifers. At 11 wk of age, heifers previously (3 to 77 d of age) reared on starter (n=8) or starter plus grass hay (n=8) were switched to a single diet consisting of restricted amounts of concentrate [60% of the starter required to support daily body weight (BW) gain of 800 g] with ad libitum access to coarsely chopped orchardgrass hay. Feed intake and growth were measured from 11 to 18 wk of age. Starter dry matter (DM) intake averaged 2.14 ± 0.15 kg/d for both treatments. Forage consumption and total (starter plus hay) DM, neutral detergent fiber, crude protein, and metabolizable energy intakes were greater in heifers previously fed forage compared with those provided no forage. Initial and final BW were similar for the 2 treatments (108.2 ± 9.1 and 149.6 ± 9.3 kg, respectively). Overall average daily gain in heifers previously fed starter alone (0.92 ± 0.05,kg/d) tended to be greater than those previously fed starter plus hay (0.79 ± 0.06,kg/d). Total DM intake (starter plus hay) was lower in heifers previously fed starter alone than those fed starter plus hay (3.55 ± 0.13 vs. 4.08 ± 0.15 kg/d, respectively). Feed efficiency (BW gain/DM intake) after switching to a common diet was greater in calves previously fed starter alone than in those previously fed starter plus hay (0.26 ± 0.01 vs. 0.19 ± 0.01, respectively). However, heifers provided access to hay had a smaller body barrel (an indicator of gut fill) at 15 wk (127.7 ± 1.7 vs. 134.3 ± 2.7 cm) and 17 wk (132.4 ± 1.9 vs. 141.0 ± 2.2 cm) of age and had greater blood β-hydroxybutyrate (0.22 ± 0.04 vs. 0.32 ± 0.04 mmol/L) compared with heifers that did not have access to hay earlier in life. These results indicate that provision of hay early in life promotes forage intake when heifers are switched to a high forage diet. However, greater feed consumption did not translate into live BW gain. Higher feed efficiency after switching to a common diet in heifers previously fed starter alone compared with those fed starter plus hay must be viewed with caution because intestinal content likely varied between treatment groups.

[The application of the physical factors for the rehabilitation of the children presenting with bronchial asthma]

The use of anti-asthmatic preparations alone can not be considered sufficient for the rehabilitation of the children suffering from bronchial asthma. Traditional medicamental therapy does not allow mortality from asthma to be appreciably reduced. At the same time, it is known to produce serious adverse effects. The physical factors proved to be fairly well compatible with the basal treatment; specifically, their application makes it possible to decrease the amount of pharmaceutical products and the duration of therapy.

[Organization of curative and prophylactic work with the children of a perinatal risk group based at a healthcare centre]

This paper demonstrates the efficacy of prophylactic measures among the children of a perinatal risk group. The effectiveness of preventive measures was estimated based on the model developed in the Children's Healthcare Centre, Reutov, Moscow region. It is concluded that the introduction of the proposed program in the practical work of other children's health centres would promote the solution of the debatable problem pertaining to the choice of optimal measures for the observation and treatment of the children under the age of 5-6 years based at the children's healthcare centres.

A comparison of two different techniques for the detection of blood parasite, Theileria annulata, in cattle from two districts in Khyber Pukhtoon Khwa Province (Pakistan)

The present study was carried out to determine the prevalence of Theileria annulata in large ruminants from two districts, Peshawar and Kohat, in Khyber Pukhtoon Khwa (Pakistan). Blood samples were collected from 95 cattle. Data on the characteristics of animals and herds were collected through questionnaires. No significant risk factors were found associated with the spread of tropical theileriosis in the study area. Two different parasite detection techniques, PCR amplification and screening of Giemsa stained slides, were compared and it was found that PCR amplification is a more sensitive tool (33.7% parasite detection), as compared to smear scanning (5.2% parasite detection) for the detection of Theileria annulata. 32 out of 95 animals, from both districts, produced the 721-bp fragment specific for Theileria annulata.

[The health improving technologies in pediatrics]

The development of prophylactic treatment is one of most challenging and socially significant aspects of modern pediatrics. Today, a great variety of natural and artificial physical factors are employed to protect and/or restore the health of the children and to improve it. The broad scope of non-medicamentous technologies used for the purpose makes it possible to elaborate prophylactic programs adapted to the specific requirements of individual patients at all levels of medical care including therapeutic and prophylactic, spa and resort institutions, educational institutions, health improvement and recreational camps of different types, and home care.

Use of periosteal membrane as a barrier membrane for the treatment of buccal Grade II furcation defects in lower molars: a novel technique

OBJECTIVE

To use the periosteum as a barrier in treatment of buccal Grade II furcation defects of lower molars.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This technique was performed on 12 patients with bilateral buccal Grade II furcation defects of lower molars. On a random basis, one furcation defect of each pair was selected for the control group and other for the experimental group. Debridement was done in the defect area in both groups. In the control group, after debridement, mucoperiosteal flap was sutured back. In the experimental group, after reflection of the mucoperiosteal flap, a portion of the periosteum along with a layer of connective tissue (periosteal membrane) was incised and mobilized in the defect area for defect coverage as a barrier, and then the periosteal membrane and mucoperiosteal flap were fixed with suture, respectively. Horizontal dimension of the furcation defect was the primary outcome measure. Gingival index, probing attachment level (PAL), and vertical dimension of furcation defect were the secondary outcome measures. Clinical parameters were registered at baseline and at 6 months.

RESULTS

Every clinical parameter was improved by surgery. Significant gain in PAL as well as horizontal and vertical dimensions of the furcation defects was found.

CONCLUSION

This periosteum displacement technique is effective for the treatment of buccal Grade II furcation defects of lower molars.

Interference in foraging behaviour of European and American house dust mites Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus and Dermatophagoides farinae (Acari: Pyroglyphidae) by catmint, Nepeta cataria (Lamiaceae)

The European and American house dust mites, Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus and D. farinae, have a huge impact upon human health worldwide due to being the most important indoor trigger of atopic diseases such as asthma, rhinitis and atopic dermatitis. Preceding studies have shown that the behavioural response of house dust mites towards volatile chemicals from food sources can be assessed using a Y-tube olfactometer assay. In the current study, we used this assay to investigate, for the first time, the ability of the essential oil of the catmint plant, Nepeta cataria (Lamiaceae), known to repel other ectoparasites affecting human and animal health, to interfere with the attraction of D. pteronyssinus and D. farinae towards a standard food source (fish flakes). Two distinct chemotypes (A and B), enriched in the iridoid compounds (4aS,7S,7aR)-nepetalactone and (4aS,7S,7aS)-nepetalactone, and the sesquiterpene (E)-(1R,9S)-caryophyllene, were used. Initial assays with a hexane extract of fish flakes (FF extract) confirmed attraction of mites to this positive control (P < 0.001 and P < 0.05 for D. pteronyssinus and D. farinae respectively), but when presented in combination with either N. cataria chemotype, tested across a range of doses (10, 1, 0.1 and 0.01 μg), decreasing attraction of mites to their food source was observed as the dose augmented. Our study shows that N. cataria, enriched in iridoid nepetalactones and (E)-(1R,9S)-caryophyllene, exhibits potent repellent activity for house dust mites, and has the potential for deployment in control programmes based on interference with normal house dust mite behaviour.

[Physical training for the treatment of children presenting with bronchial asthma]

This paper reports the results of the treatment of 101 children presenting with bronchial asthma. The study has demonstrated the pronounced positive effect of the combined application of a pulsed low-frequency electrostatic field and therapeutic physical training on the dynamics of clinical symptoms of the disease. By the end of the treatment period, all the patients reported the disappearance of paroxysmal night-time coughing, productive cough, expectoration, and attacks of respiratory distress. Auscultation failed to reveal dry, whistling, and bubbling rales. Dynamics of the changes of the impaired airway patency was estimated from the results of computed pneumotachometry and monitoring peak expiratory flow by the peak flowmetric technique. The combined application of a pulsed low-frequency electrostatic field and therapeutic physical training significantly improved characteristics of the external expiratory function (PEF, FEV1, MEFR25, MEFR50--p < 0.02, MEFR75--p < 0.001). In the end of therapy, 96.7% of the children had normal parameters of computed flowmetry in the absence of a generalized impairment of bronchial patency while obstruction at the level of peripheral bronchi persisted only in 3.3% of the patients. The increase of PEF based on the results of peak flowmetry averaged 44.21% (p < 0.001). A rationale has been developed for the application of the proposed therapeutic strategy to the treatment of children with bronchial asthma.

High-performance non-volatile organic ferroelectric memory on banknotes

High-performance non-volatile polymer ferroelectric memory are fabricated on banknotes using poly(vinylidene fluoride trifluoroethylene). The devices show excellent performance with high remnant polarization, low operating voltages, low leakage, high mobility, and long retention times.

High Dose Cytosine Arabinoside in the consolidation of adult acute myeloid leukemia

This interventional study was done to evaluate the duration of remission with High Dose Cytosine Arabinoside (Ara-C) as post-remission chemotherapy in the consolidation of adult acute myeloid leukemia. A total of 32 patients were included in this study. Among them, 19 were male and 13 were female and the age of the patients ranges from 15-60 years. We use High Dose Cytosine Arabinoside 1.5-2.5 g/m2 i.v, 12 hourly, over 2-3 hours on day 1, 3 and 5 in a 28 days cycle. This study was done during the period of April 2007 to March 2009 in the department of hematology, Dhaka Medical College & Hospital. History, clinical features and laboratory investigations were included. Among 32 patients, 5 patients (15.6%) received one cycle, 20 patients (62.5%) received two cycles and 7 patients (21.9%) received three cycles. The mean ± SD duration of remission (disease free survival) was 5.20 ± 3.83 months who received one cycle, 9.55 ± 3.30 months and 10.71 ± 1.70 months who received two cycles and three cycles respectively. The adverse effects of the therapy were neutropenia and neutropenic fever, purpuric rash, gum bleeding, mucositis and peripheral neuropathy. The supportive materials needed were antibiotics (both prophylactic and treatment) 86.13%, blood and blood products 51.7% and G-CSF 14.9% patients of all cycles. High Dose Ara-C (HiDAC) is a safe and cost effective consolidation treatment for AML patients in complete remission. This therapy merits multi-center control study to define its efficacy and cost-effectiveness in contrast to our socio-economic condition.

A comparison of cytological and histopathological findings and role of immunostains in the diagnosis of soft tissue tumors

BACKGROUND

Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) has been employed as a useful technique for the initial diagnosis of soft tissue tumors (STT) as well for the identification of recurrent and metastatic cases.

AIM

We conducted this study on soft tissue tumors to find the efficacy of FNAC and to finalize the histological diagnosis with immunostains.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The present study was conducted on 126 patients of soft tissue tumors. FNAC and histopathology was performed in all the cases.

RESULTS

Hundred and five cases (83.3%) were diagnosed as benign and 21 cases (16.7%) as malignant. On FNAC, tumors were divided into six cytomorphological categories i.e. lipomatous, spindle cell, round cell, myxoid, pleomorphic and vascular tumors. Seventeen cases were inconclusive on cytology. In five cases, the type of malignancy was changed on histological examination. There were three false positive and two false negative cases giving a positive predictive value of 97.2 % in terms of malignancy, a sensitivity of 98.1% and a specificity of 96.7%.

CONCLUSIONS

FNAC has a definite role in forming the initial diagnosis of STT, while histopathology with the aid of immunomarkers provides the final diagnosis.

[The use of halotherapy for the health improvement in children at institutions of general education]

The objective of the present study was to estimate the influence of halotherapy performed in a specialized salt room on the health status of the children frequently ill with acute respiratory diseases. The application of halotherapy was shown to produce well-apparent antiinflammatory, draining, and sanogenic effects. Observations during 1, 3, 5, and 12 month follow-up periods confirmed the persistence of prophylactic and therapeutic effects of salt therapy. The results of the study were used to develop differential schemes of halotherapy taking into consideration the initial conditions of the children.

Hay intake improves performance and rumen development of calves fed higher quantities of milk

Research to date has suggested that access to forage before weaning can limit rumen development in calves, but no research has yet addressed the role of forage for calves fed higher quantities of milk. This study compared performance and rumen development of calves provided high volumes (equivalent to approximately 20% of calf birth weight) of milk with and without access to hay. At d 3 of age, individually housed calves were randomly assigned to treatment (either ad libitum access to chopped grass hay or no forage; n=15 calves per treatment, 10 heifers, and 5 bulls). All calves were provided ad libitum access to water and starter throughout the study. All calves were offered 8L of milk/d from a nipple bottle from d 3 to 35, 4 L/d from d 36 to 53, and 2L/d until weaning at d 56. Solid feed intake and growth parameters were monitored from d 3 to 70. At d 70, males from both treatments were slaughtered to measure rumen development parameters. Overall dry matter (DM) intake from solid feed did not differ between treatments before wk 5. However, during wk 6 to 10, calves fed forage consumed more total DM (starter plus hay) than did calves fed no forage. Hip and wither height, heart girth, and body barrel at d 3, 56, and 70 did not differ between treatments. Reticulorumen weight was heavier in calves fed hay versus those fed only starter (12.77±1.29 vs. 7.99±0.69 kg with digesta; 1.89±0.05 vs.1.60±0.09 kg without digesta). Body weight without digesta was similar in calves fed forage or no forage. Mean rumen pH was higher in calves fed hay compared with those fed no forage (5.49±0.08 vs. 5.06±0.04). In conclusion, provision of chopped hay to calves fed high volumes of milk can promote solid feed DM intake and rumen development without affecting BW gain.

Translating childhood tuberculosis case management research into operational policies

The control of childhood tuberculosis (TB) has been of low priority in TB programmes in high-burden settings. The objective of this paper was to describe the development and testing of tools for the management of childhood TB. The Pakistan National TB Control Programme embarked on a number of activities, including the establishment of policy guidelines for the management of childhood TB and later a guidance document, 'Case Management Desk Guide and Structured Monitoring', to demonstrate the implementation of childhood TB interventions in a programme context. Initial results showed improved case finding and treatment outcome in implementation sites compared with control districts. However, further programme attention is required to improve quality.

[The efficacy of health improvement measures for sickly children in a children's health promotion facility]

The results of the present study confirm the efficacy of combined health improvement measures applied in the children's health promotion facility for the treatment of frequently ill children. These measures included climatic therapy, rational day regimen, full-rate balanced diet, therapeutic physical exercises, and aromatherapy with the use of natural essential oils, e.g. clary sage oil. Children presenting with the symptoms of an acute respiratory infection were additionally treated with polarized light having the anti-inflammatory, immunocorrective, and antioxidative properties and thereby improved adaptive capacity of the organism.

Outbreak of Pneumococcal Pneumonia among Military Recruits

BACKGROUND

Between 04 Mar 2002 to 21 Mar 2002, 31 cases of pneumonia were admitted at a military hospital in South India. Most of these cases were young recruits. The out break was investigated to ascertain the cause and suggest preventive measures.

METHODS

Detailed epidemiological history was taken from all 31 cases and 100 controls. Case sheets, laboratory reports and chest radiographs were studied. Laboratory investigations included sputum examination by Gram stain and blood cultures on brain heart infusion broth. Cultures grown on liquid media were subcultured on solid media. The regimental centre was visited to note the living and environmental conditions.

RESULTS

Epidemiological investigations revealed overcrowding in the regimental centre. The space per recruit was below recommended standards. 51.6% of recruits who contacted pneumonia were sleeping on double deckers as compared to 21% of healthy controls. Blood culture was positive for Streptococcus pneumoniae in 25.8% of the cases. Chest radiograph showed consolidation typical of lobar pneumonia in 67% of the cases.

CONCLUSION

The outbreak of pneumococcal pneumonia occurred due to overcrowding. Chilly weather conditions and stress were contributing factors.

2010 update of the ASAS/EULAR recommendations for the management of ankylosing spondylitis

This first update of the ASAS/EULAR recommendations on the management of ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is based on the original paper, a systematic review of existing recommendations and the literature since 2005 and the discussion and agreement among 21 international experts, 2 patients and 2 physiotherapists in a meeting in February 2010. Each original bullet point was discussed in detail and reworded if necessary. Decisions on new recommendations were made — if necessary after voting. The strength of the recommendations (SOR) was scored on an 11-point numerical rating scale after the meeting by email. These recommendations apply to patients of all ages that fulfill the modified NY criteria for AS, independent of extra-articular manifestations, and they take into account all drug and non-drug interventions related to AS. Four overarching principles were introduced, implying that one bullet has been moved to this section. There are now 11 bullet points including 2 new ones, one related to extra-articular manifestations and one to changes in the disease course. With a mean score of 9.1 (range 8-10) the SOR was generally very good.

Constitutive expression of high-affinity sulfate transporter (HAST) gene in Indian mustard showed enhanced sulfur uptake and assimilation

Lycopersicon esculantum sulfate transporter gene (LeST 1.1) encodes a high-affinity sulfate transporter (HAST) located in root epidermis. In this study, the LeST 1.1 gene was constitutively expressed in Indian mustard (Brassica juncea cv. Pusa Jai Kisan). Transgenic as well as untransformed plants were grown in sulfur-insufficient (25 and 50 μM) and sulfur-sufficient (1,000 μM) conditions for 30 days. Two-fold increase was noticed in the sulfate uptake rate of transgenic plants grown in both sulfur-insufficient and -sufficient conditions as compared to untransformed plants. The transgenic B. juncea plants were able to accumulate higher biomass and showed improved sulfur status even in sulfur-insufficient conditions when compared with untransformed plants. Chlorophyll content, ATP sulfurylase activity and protein content were also higher in transgenic plants than untranformed plants under sulfur-insufficient conditions. Our results, thus, clearly indicate that constitutive expression of LeST 1.1 gene in B. juncea had led to enhanced capacity of sulfur uptake and assimilation even in sulfur-insufficient conditions. This approach can also be used in other crops to enhance their sulfate uptake and assimilation potential under S-insufficient conditions.

Antimicrobial resistance trends in blood culture positive Salmonella Typhi isolates from Pondicherry, India, 2005-2009

Typhoid fever is caused by Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi, a major public health concern in developing countries. Recently, there has been an upsurge in the occurrence of bacterial isolates that are resistant to ciprofloxacin, and the emergence of broad spectrum β-lactamases in typhoidal salmonellae constitutes a new challenge for the clinician. A total of 337 blood culture isolates of S. Typhi, isolated from Pondicherry, India, between January 2005 and December 2009, were investigated using phenotypic, molecular and serological methods. Of the 337 isolates, 74 (22%) were found to be multidrug resistant (MDR) and 264 (78%) nalidixic acid resistant (NAR). Isolates with reduced susceptibility to ciprofloxacin possessed single mutations in the gyrA gene. A high rate of resistance (8%) was found to ciprofloxacin. All isolates with a ciprofloxacin MIC ≥ 4 mg/L possessed both double mutations in the QRDR of the gyrA gene and a single mutation in the parC gene. Active efflux pump mechanisms were also found to be involved in ciprofloxacin resistance. Finally, a large number of PFGE patterns (non-clonal genotypes) were observed among the S. Typhi isolates. In conclusion, a high rate of ciprofloxacin resistance was observed in comparison to other endemic areas in blood culture isolates of S. Typhi from Pondicherry, India, with steadily increasing NAR but decreasing MDR isolations over the study period. This is most likely to be due to an increased use of ciprofloxacin as a first-line drug of choice over more traditional antimicrobial agents for the treatment of typhoid fever.

Invited review: effects of milk ration on solid feed intake, weaning, and performance in dairy heifers

A feeding regimen that allows a smooth transition from milk to solid feed is vital for successful heifer-rearing programs. In the past, research efforts have focused on the development of feeding methods that allow early weaning, perhaps because the risk of disease is highest during the milk feeding stage. To encourage early intake of calf starter, conventional feeding programs have limited the supply of milk (often to 10% of BW at birth). However, dairy calves provided free access to milk will typically consume more than twice this amount. We critically review the available literature examining the relationship between milk feeding method, solid feed consumption, and rumen development in young dairy calves and identify areas where new work is required. We conclude that milk-fed dairy calves can safely ingest milk at approximately 20% of body weight (BW)/d, and greater milk consumption supports greater BW gain, improved feed efficiency, reduced incidence of disease, and greater opportunity to express natural behaviors, which in combination suggest improved welfare. Method of weaning greatly influences feed consumption, rumen development, and growth check in calves provided higher amounts of milk. Gradual weaning encourages starter intake during the preweaning period, and both weaning age and duration of weaning influence this consumption. Increased solid feed consumption during the weaning process contributes to rumen development, permitting higher starter intake and BW gain after weaning. Growth factors in milk may also enhance the growth and maturation of the gastrointestinal tract, but more research is required to understand the role of these factors. Greater nutrient supply through increased amount of milk appears to improve immune function and long-term performance of heifer calves; for example, reducing the age at first breeding and increasing first-lactation milk yield, but more research is needed to confirm these effects.

IGF2, IGF binding protein 1, and matrix metalloproteinases 2 and 9 in implantation-stage endometrium following immunoneutralization of vascular endothelial growth factor in the rhesus monkey

Blastocyst implantation in the rhesus monkey is inhibited by administration of antibody against vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) A during peri-implantation period with no change in the circulatory concentrations of estradiol, progesterone, and VEGF. In this study, we have investigated the effect of administration of a MAB to VEGFA on days 5 and 10 after ovulation upon the mRNA expression, immunopositive protein expression, and immunohistological localization of IGF2, IGF binding protein 1 (IGFBP1) and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) 2 and 9 in the implantation-stage endometrium collected on day 13 after ovulation from fecund cycles of rhesus monkeys. The comparison between isotype-matched IgG (control; n=8)- and VEGF antibody (VEGF Mab; n=8)-treated animals revealed higher (P<0.05) IGF2 in lacunar and villous syncytiotrophoblasts, trophoblast cell columns, migrating extravillous trophoblast cells, and endovascular trophoblast cells in control animals, but with no change in the various cell types of maternal endometrium between the two groups. No change in IGFBP1 expression in the endometrium was observed between the two groups. MMPs 2 and 9 were detected in syncytiotrophoblast in lacunae and villi, trophoblast cell columns, and extravillous trophoblast cells in control samples. MMP9 transcript expression in maternal endometrium and its immunopositivity in endometrial stroma and trophoblast cells were lower (P<0.05) with no change in MMP2 level in VEGF Mab-exposed samples compared with those in control samples. A functional network involving VEGF, IGF2, and MMP9 in early placental trophoblast cells and maternal endometrium appears to be important for normal placentation.

Effectiveness of a modified tutorless problem-based learning method in dermatology - a pilot study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Problem-Based Learning (PBL) is a student-centred instructional strategy in which students learn in a collaborative manner, the learning process being guided by a facilitator. One of the limitations of conventional PBL in medical education is the need for adequate resources in terms of faculty and time. Our study aimed to compare conventional PBL in dermatology with a modified tutorless PBL in which pre-listed cues and the use of digital media help direct the learning process.

METHODS

Thirty-one-fifth year medical students were divided into two groups: the study group comprising 16 students were exposed to the modified PBL, whereas the control group comprising 15 students were given the same scenarios and triggers, but in a conventional tutor-facilitated PBL. Knowledge acquisition and student feedback were assessed using a post-test and a Likert scale-based questionnaire, respectively.

RESULTS

The post-test marks showed no significant statistical differences between the two groups. The general feedback regarding the modified PBL was positive and the students felt comfortable with the module. The learning objectives were met satisfactorily in both groups.

CONCLUSION

Modified tutorless PBL modules might be an effective method to incorporate student-centred learning in dermatology without constraints in terms of faculty resources or time.

The management of pancreatic trauma

Pancreatic trauma is an uncommon occurrence and so a consensus about optimal management is not readily available. Isolated pancreatic injury occurs only occasionally, as in the majority of cases there is concurrent visceral or vascular injury. Morbidity and mortality are related to delay in diagnosis, concurrent organ injury or the presence and extent of pancreatic duct injury.

Mapping of quantitative trait loci for fire blight resistance in the apple cultivars 'Florina' and 'Nova Easygro'

Fire blight is a devastating bacterial disease of rosaceous plants. Its damage to apple production is a major concern, since no existing control option has proven to be completely effective. Some commercial apple varieties, such as 'Florina' and 'Nova Easygro', exhibit a consistent level of resistance to fire blight. In this study, we used an F1 progeny of 'Florina' × 'Nova Easygro' to build parental genetic maps and identify quantitative trait loci (QTLs) related to fire blight resistance. Linkage maps were constructed using a set of microsatellites and enriched with amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) markers. In parallel, progeny plants were artificially inoculated with Erwinia amylovora strain CFBP 1430 in a quarantine glasshouse. Shoot length measured 7 days after inoculation (DAI) and lesion length measured 7 and 14 DAI were used to calculate the lesion length as a percentage of the shoot length (PLL1 and PLL2, respectively). Percent lesion length data were log10-transformed (log10(PLL)) and used to perform the Kruskal-Wallis test, interval mapping (IM), and multiple QTL mapping (MQM). Two significant fire blight resistance QTLs were detected in 'Florina'. One QTL was mapped on linkage group 10 by IM and MQM; it explained 17.9% and 15.3% of the phenotypic variation by MQM with log10(PLL1) and log10(PLL2) data, respectively. A second QTL was identified on linkage group 5 by MQM with log10(PLL2) data; it explained 10.1% of the phenotypic variation. Genotyping the plants of 'Florina' pedigree with the microsatellites flanking the QTLs showed that the QTLs on linkage groups 5 and 10 were inherited from 'Jonathan' and 'Starking' (a 'Red Delicious' sport mutation), respectively. Other putative QTLs (defined as QTLs with LOD scores above the chromosomal threshold and below the genome-wide threshold) were detected by IM on linkage groups 5 and 9 of 'Nova Easygro'.

Ecological and socio-economic assessment of Varthur wetland, Bengaluru (India)

Wetlands are the most productive ecosystems, recognized globally for their vital role in sustaining a wide array of biodiversity and provide goods and services. But presently increased anthropogenic activities such as intense agriculture practices, indiscriminate disposal of industrial effluents and sewage wastes have altered the physical, chemical as well as biological processes of wetlands, which is evident from the present study carried out to assessVarthur wetland in India. Coastal wetland ecosystem in the world has 14,785/ha US$ annual economic value. An earlier study of relatively pristine wetland in Bengaluru revealed the value of ? 10,435/ha/day while the polluted wetland showed the value of ? 20/ha/day. On the contrary Varthur, a sewage fed wetland has a value of ? 118.9/ha/day. The pollutants and subsequent contamination of the wetland-Varthur has telling effects such as disappearance of native species, dominance of invasive exotic species (such as African catfish), in addition to profuse breeding of disease vectors and pathogens. Water quality analysis revealed high phosphate (4.22-5.76 ppm) level in addition to the enhanced BOD (119-140 ppm) and decreased DO (0-1.06 ppm). The amplified decline of ecosystem goods and services with degradation of water quality necessitates the implementation of sustainable management strategies to recover the lost wetland benefits of Varthur.

Development of controlled release formulations of carbofuran and imidacloprid and their bioefficacy evaluation against aphid, Aphis gossypii and leafhopper, Amrasca biguttula biguttula Ishida on potato crop

Controlled release (CR) formulations of carbofuran and imidacloprid were prepared employing polyvinyl chloride and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and their bioefficacy was evaluated against the aphid, Aphis gossypii and leafhopper, Amrasca biguttula biguttula Ishida on potato crop. The CR formulations of carbofuran and imidacloprid provided better or equal control of the pests than commercial formulations. CMC-based formulation provided a superior control of both the pests. The Imida-CMC, which showed the lowest population of leaf hopper (10.50 leafhopper/100 cl), provided significantly superior control among all treatments after 35 days after germination (DAG). The residue of carbofuran and imidacloprid in potato tuber and soils were not detectable at the time of harvesting in any one of the formulations.

Association of lipid metabolism with ovarian cancer

Defects in lipid metabolism have been found to be linked to several diseases, among which atherosclerosis, hypertension, obesity, and diabetes are the most important. Although cancer is chiefly a genetic disease, dietary lipid intake and metabolism are related to some cancer risks, including the risk for ovarian cancer. Higher intake of dietary lipids, systemic lipid metabolism malfunction, and abnormal serum lipid levels are somehow related to ovarian cancer. Overexpression of some lipid metabolic enzymes are also found in ovarian cancer. In this review article, we summarize the relationships between lipid intake, lipid metabolism, and ovarian cancer.

Development and application of a validated HPLC method for the analysis of dissolution samples of levothyroxine sodium drug products

A rapid, selective, and sensitive gradient HPLC method was developed for the analysis of dissolution samples of levothyroxine sodium tablets. Current USP methodology for levothyroxine (L-T(4)) was not adequate to resolve co-elutants from a variety of levothyroxine drug product formulations. The USP method for analyzing dissolution samples of the drug product has shown significant intra- and inter-day variability. The sources of method variability include chromatographic interferences introduced by the dissolution media and the formulation excipients. In the present work, chromatographic separation of levothyroxine was achieved on an Agilent 1100 Series HPLC with a Waters Nova-pak column (250 mm × 3.9 mm) using a 0.01 M phosphate buffer (pH 3.0)-methanol (55:45, v/v) in a gradient elution mobile phase at a flow rate of 1.0 mL/min and detection UV wavelength of 225 nm. The injection volume was 800 μL and the column temperature was maintained at 28°C. The method was validated according to USP Category I requirements. The validation characteristics included accuracy, precision, specificity, linearity, and analytical range. The standard curve was found to have a linear relationship (r(2)>0.99) over the analytical range of 0.08-0.8 μg/mL. Accuracy ranged from 90 to 110% for low quality control (QC) standards and 95 to 105% for medium and high QC standards. Precision was <2% at all QC levels. The method was found to be accurate, precise, selective, and linear for L-T(4) over the analytical range. The HPLC method was successfully applied to the analysis of dissolution samples of marketed levothyroxine sodium tablets.

Quantitative analysis of six gene products as candidate markers of early placental villi development in the human

Early placental development is critical for successful pregnancy. Recently, we have reported that -70 genes were differentially expressed in human placental villi between 6- and 8- weeks of gestation in cDNA-based expression arrays for -400 PCR products, of which six specific gene products (COL4A4, CXCR4, ERBB2, HDAC1, HPRT1, and TNFRSF1A) appeared intriguing. In the present study we have examined expressions of these six candidate genes in placental villi obtained from 6-weeks, 7-weeks and 8-weeks (n = 6 for each group) human placental samples using quantitative real time RTPCR. We observed that there was considerable concordance (>95% confidence) in pair-wise analysis of transcript profiles between the two methods, however, absolute quantitative values as measured by quantitative RTPCR differed from those obtained from cDNA-based array analysis for 2 gene products (CXCR4 and ERBB2) out of 6 genes. No significant change was observed in the steady state expression of COL4A4 and HPRT1 during the time period examined. However, there was significant decrease in CXCR4 for 7-weeks (P < 0.01) and 8-weeks (P < 0.05) samples, and significant (P < 0.05) increase was seen for ERBB2 in 7-weeks and 8-weeks as compared to 6-weeks samples with no change between 7-weeks and 8-weeks samples. Moreover, significant (P < 0.05) increase for HDAC1 and decrease for TNFRSF1A was observed in 8-weeks samples as compared to 6-weeks samples with no change observed between 6-weeks and 7-weeks samples. We infer that it is essential that cDNA array-based data are verified in terms of quantitative estimates preferably by quantitative PCR before their use for any exploratory purpose. Taking together our previous array based data and the present study we conclude that a categorical balance exists between the expression of ERBB2 and HDAC1 genes affecting cell proliferation and differentiation in one hand, and CXCR4 and TNFRSF1A affecting chemotaxis, inflammatory response and apoptosis on the other hand. The expression of these genes appear important for the early development of human placental villi.

Diagnosis and outcome of childhood tuberculosis: implementing public health policy in three districts of Pakistan

SETTING

All nine public sector hospitals in three districts of Pakistan.

OBJECTIVE

To estimate case notifications of children with tuberculosis (TB) and their outcomes.

DESIGN

A retrospective cohort following all children aged <15 years placed on TB treatment under the National TB Control Programme (NTP) in public hospitals. The study period was 2 years before and 2 years after the implementation of new NTP policy guidelines for childhood TB. Data were collected from hospital TB registers, patient treatment cards and quarterly reports.

RESULTS

With the introduction of the new NTP policy, case notification of childhood TB increased from 189 (2004-2005) to 731 for the 2 years 2006-2007. The annual notification rate of childhood TB cases increased from 1.4 (2004-2005) to 5.2 per 100 000 population (2006-2007). Of the total 920 childhood TB cases registered, 610 were pulmonary, 202 extra-pulmonary and the remaining 108 unclassified. The three-fold increase in case notification was accompanied by a lack of follow-up, resulting in an increase in unknown treatment outcomes from 21.7% to 73.3%.

CONCLUSION

Managing children with TB in routine NTP practice is possible, but without adequate operational guidelines, expanding services and follow-up, it can lead to suboptimal results.

Small scale transcript expression profile of Human first trimester placental villi analyzed by a custom-tailored cDNA array

Human placental trophoblastic mass grows rapidly between 4 and 8 weeks of gestation making it highly vulnerable to external and internal challenges, however, there has been no reported study exploring the developmental molecular characteristics in human first trimester placental villi. In the present study, transcript expressions of human placental villi of normal pregnancies during 6 (n=6), 7 (n=6) and 8 (n=6) weeks of gestation using custom-tailored cDNA-based expression arrays for -400 annotated human gene products were examined. Unsupervised and supervised analyses of expression data revealed that 386 (95%) genes were overtly involved in the first trimester placental villi, and these genes segregated into three clusters specifically corresponding to 6-, 7- and 8-weeks of gestation in principal component analysis. Bayesian prediction analysis based on relative expression levels of genes studied identified that expression patterns in 15 samples out of 18 samples showed concordance with high (0.8-1.0) confidence measures with the chronological age of the placenta, however, two samples collected during 7-weeks of gestation and one sample collected during 8-weeks of gestation were predicted to be 6-weeks sample with confidence measures between 0.6 and 0.5. Unsupervised hierarchical clustering analysis segregated the samples into two major branches; while one of them was composed of five 7-weeks samples only, the second major branch had three sub-branches: one of them was exclusively composed of three 8-week samples only, while other two sub-branches were mainly composed of 6-weeks samples. K-means clustering analysis identified four optimal clusters of genes depending on the similarity of their relative expression for the set of genes studied across all the samples. Gene ontology (GO) based functional classifications of genes in K-means clusters revealed that the overall putative functions of co-regulated gene clusters were mutually comparable, however, specific genes related to ion homeostasis, metabolism, and VEGF activity specifically clustered in 8-weeks samples. Analysis of relative gene expression during in 6-8 week placental villi revealed that a large number of gene products were over represented by their either up-regulation (70 genes: approximately 18%) or down regulation (53 genes; approximately 14%) between 6 and 8 weeks villi samples and these genes are reportedly involved in biological processes like regulation of cell growth and proliferation, anti-apoptosis, angiogenesis, immune and inflammatory responses, extracellular matrix remodeling and multicellular organismal development involving almost all cellular components and molecular functions like signal transduction activity, transcription factor activity, nucleotide and protein binding, ion (especially calcium and zinc) binding and growth receptor activities. Interestingly, four genes (oxytocin receptor, tenascin C, TNF-R1 and retinol binding protein 1) showed differential regulation in human placental villi during 6-8 weeks of gestation, suggestive of an underlying network of regulation involving these factors in the developing placenta. To our knowledge, this is the first report indicating that these genes are involved in the early stage development of human placenta.

Alcohol and drug use in Australian male sex workers: Its relationship to the safety outcome of the sex encounter

This paper describes the self-reporting patterns of alcohol and drug consumption among male sex workers (MSWs) in three Australian cities during commercial sex encounters, and examines to what extent alcohol and drugs are used and whether this is related to the safe/unsafe outcome of the commercial sex encounter. One hundred and eighty-six MSWs from Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne completed a diary following each commercial sex encounter over a two-week period. MSWs reported 2,087 commercial sex encounters during the study period. Alcohol or drug consumption was reported in 50.5% of the encounters. There were 488 instances of marijuana use reported before or during a commercial sex encounter, 210 instances of volatile inhalants use, 149 instances of heroine use and 151 of other drug use, including benzodiasepines, ecstasy, speed and cocaine. These substances were consumed either alone or combined. Marijuana consumption was associated with the commercial sex encounter occurring at the MSWs' place of residence and consumption of alcohol, marijuana and nitrites with the client's place. The results also reveal that consumption of drugs and alcohol was statistically related to length of the encounter, and that clients obtained through escort agencies or brothels were significantly associated with marijuana, other drug consumption and heroine use. Interestingly, a multivariate analysis indicated that encounters where the MSW consumed marijuana or did not consume any substance were less likely to have an unsafe outcome. The paper argues that it is necessary to identify and target risk groups and behaviours that are usually not included in broad based health education messages.

Environmental contamination of Hokersar wetland waters in Kashmir Himalayan Valley, India

This paper investigates the environmental contamination of Himalayan wetland ecosystem (Hokersar, Kashmir) by analyzing the distribution and loading of bacterial population in waters. Seven locations representing heterogeneous spatial habitat zonation of the wetland were studied. Site-specific variability in bacterial load was markedly discernible at Doodhganga inlet and Zainakoot locations, with maximum values in the range of 242-276/100 mL against Soziath, an outlet, with minimum value of 157-159/100 mL. Considerable seasonal fluctuations were evident in bacterial densities, highest values were observed in summer and lowest in winter. Annual averages showed that dense aquatic vegetation zone harboured least number of bacteria (159/100 mL) suggesting increased die-off of the bacterial population. All the samples were found contaminated to grossly-contaminated. The nature of qualitative composition of bacterial species including prevalence of Escherichia coli and species of Yersinia, Staphylococcus, Pseudomonas, Shigella indicate probable contamination of waters due to ingress of sewage and fecal matter posing health hazards.

Ethnopharmacological application of medicinal plants to cure skin diseases and in folk cosmetics among the tribal communities of North-West Frontier Province, Pakistan

AIM OF THE STUDY

The present investigation is an attempt to find out ethnopharmacological application of medicinal plants to cure skin diseases and in folk cosmetics.

METHOD

We interviewed respondents in 30 remote sites of North-West Frontier Province by a structured interview form in the local language and respondents were queried for the type of herbal cure known to him.

RESULTS

A total of 66 plant species belonging to 45 families have been recorded. Seventy-five medications for 15 skin diseases and cosmetics were documented. The mode of application was topical as well as oral administration. Water, milk, ghee, oil, eggs, sulphur and butter are used during administration of herbal remedies. About 15 plant species are known for their use to cure multiple skin diseases. Among these Berberis lyceum, Bergenia ciliata, Melia azedarach, Otostegia limbata, Phyla nodiflora, Prunus persica and Zingiber officinale constitutes major plants. The herbal cosmetics products range from face freshness, removal of ugly spots, hair care, and colouring of palm, feet, gums, and teeth.

CONCLUSION

Most of the reported species are wild and rare; this demands an urgent attention to conserve such vital resources so as to optimize their use in the primary health care system. Since most of the skin diseases are caused by bacteria, viruses and fungi in this context, phytochemical screening for active constituents, biological activities and clinical studies is of global importance.