Characterization of the Bipolaris maydis: symptoms and pathogenicity in popcorn genotypes (Zea mays L.)

Abstract Southern corn leaf blight (SCLB) is one of the most important corn leaf diseases. Appropriate management strategies and the use of resistant cultivars allow disease control. Therefore, knowing the aspects related to the pathogen and the response of hosts makes it possible to design efficient strategies for selecting genotypes resistant to this disease. In this sense, the objective was to carry out the Bipolaris maydis isolate characterization, evaluating the pathogenicity in different popcorn lines and the symptoms generated in the host after inoculation. The isolate characterization consisted of the macromorphological evaluation of the colonies and the micromorphological evaluation of the conidia in the PDA medium. An experiment was carried out in a greenhouse to evaluate the pathogenicity of the isolate, using 20 inbred lines of popcorn in a randomized block design with four replicates. Inoculation was carried out by spraying leaves, with a suspension containing 1.0 x 104 conidia.ml-1 of the CF/UENF 501 isolate of B. maydis. An incidence assessment and three assessments of disease symptom severity were performed, with seven days intervals between evaluations. The morphological characterization data of the isolate were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and for disease severity, the linear regression model was applied the first-degree model. The variance analysis was performed for the linear and angular coefficients obtained for each treatment. When a difference was found, the Scott-Knott clustering algorithm at 5% significance was applied. The isolate had gray-green colonies, a cottony appearance, and an irregular shape. The lines L353, L354, and L624 show more resistance at the beginning and throughout the evaluations. The high virulence of the CF/UENF 501 isolate made it possible to differentiate the lines in terms of disease intensity and the pattern of symptoms presented.

Resumo Mancha-de-Bipolaris é uma das mais importantes doenças foliares do milho. Estratégias de manejo adequadas e o uso de cultivar resistente permitem o controle da doença, mas para tanto, conhecer os aspectos associados ao patógeno e a resposta do hospedeiro é necessário para traçar estratégias eficientes para seleção de genótipos resistentes a essa doença. Neste sentido, objetivou-se realizar a caracterização do isolado de Bipolaris maydis avaliando a patogenicidade em diferentes linhagens de milho-pipoca e os sintomas gerados no hospedeiro a partir da inoculação. A caracterização do isolado consistiu na avaliação macromorfológica das colônias e micromofológica dos conídios em meio nutritivo BDA. Para avaliação da patogenicidade do isolado foi conduzido um experimento em casa de vegetação utilizando 20 linhagens endogâmicas de milho-pipoca, com delineamento em blocos casualizados, com quatro repetições. A inoculação foi realizada por meio de pulverização em folhas, com uma suspensão contendo 1,0 x 104 conídios.ml-1 do isolado CF/UENF 501 de B. maydis. Foi realizada uma avaliação de incidência e três avaliações de severidade dos sintomas da doença, com o intervalo de sete dias para cada avaliação. Os dados da caracterização morfológica do isolado foram analisados por meio da estatística descritiva e para severidade da doença foi aplicado o modelo de regressão linear de primeiro grau. Realizou-se a análise de variância para o coeficiente linear e angular obtido para cada tratamento e quando constatada diferença aplicou-se o agrupamento de médias de Scott-knott a 5% de significância. O isolado apresentou colônias com coloração cinza esverdeado, aspecto algodonoso e forma irregular. As linhagens L353 e L354 e L624 estão entre as linhagens que apresentaram maior resistência no inicio e ao longo das avaliações. A elevada virulência do isolado CF/UENF 501 possibilitou diferenciar as linhagens quanto a intensidade da doença, bem como o padrão dos sintomas apresentados.

Characterization of the Bipolaris maydis: symptoms and pathogenicity in popcorn genotypes (Zea mays L. ) / Caracterização de Bipolaris maydis: sintomas e patogenicidade em genótipos de milho-pipoca (Zea mays L. )

Southern corn leaf blight (SCLB) is one of the most important corn leaf diseases. Appropriate management strategies and the use of resistant cultivars allow disease control. Therefore, knowing the aspects related to the pathogen and the response of hosts makes it possible to design efficient strategies for selecting genotypes resistant to this disease. In this sense, the objective was to carry out the Bipolaris maydis isolate characterization, evaluating the pathogenicity in different popcorn lines and the symptoms generated in the host after inoculation. The isolate characterization consisted of the macromorphological evaluation of the colonies and the micromorphological evaluation of the conidia in the PDA medium. An experiment was carried out in a greenhouse to evaluate the pathogenicity of the isolate, using 20 inbred lines of popcorn in a randomized block design with four replicates. Inoculation was carried out by spraying leaves, with a suspension containing 1.0 x 104 conidia.ml-1 of the CF/UENF 501 isolate of B. maydis. An incidence assessment and three assessments of disease symptom severity were performed, with seven days intervals between evaluations. The morphological characterization data of the isolate were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and for disease severity, the linear regression model was applied the first-degree model. The variance analysis was performed for the linear and angular coefficients obtained for each treatment. When a difference was found, the Scott-Knott clustering algorithm at 5% significance was applied. The isolate had gray-green colonies, a cottony appearance, and an irregular shape. The lines L353, L354, and L624 show more resistance at the beginning and throughout the evaluations. The high virulence of the CF/UENF 501 isolate made it possible to differentiate the lines in terms of disease intensity and the pattern of symptoms presented.

Mancha-de-Bipolaris é uma das mais importantes doenças foliares do milho. Estratégias de manejo adequadas e o uso de cultivar resistente permitem o controle da doença, mas para tanto, conhecer os aspectos associados ao patógeno e a resposta do hospedeiro é necessário para traçar estratégias eficientes para seleção de genótipos resistentes a essa doença. Neste sentido, objetivou-se realizar a caracterização do isolado de Bipolaris maydis avaliando a patogenicidade em diferentes linhagens de milho-pipoca e os sintomas gerados no hospedeiro a partir da inoculação. A caracterização do isolado consistiu na avaliação macromorfológica das colônias e micromofológica dos conídios em meio nutritivo BDA. Para avaliação da patogenicidade do isolado foi conduzido um experimento em casa de vegetação utilizando 20 linhagens endogâmicas de milho-pipoca, com delineamento em blocos casualizados, com quatro repetições. A inoculação foi realizada por meio de pulverização em folhas, com uma suspensão contendo 1,0 x 104 conídios.ml-1 do isolado CF/UENF 501 de B. maydis. Foi realizada uma avaliação de incidência e três avaliações de severidade dos sintomas da doença, com o intervalo de sete dias para cada avaliação. Os dados da caracterização morfológica do isolado foram analisados por meio da estatística descritiva e para severidade da doença foi aplicado o modelo de regressão linear de primeiro grau. Realizou-se a análise de variância para o coeficiente linear e angular obtido para cada tratamento e quando constatada diferença aplicou-se o agrupamento de médias de Scott-knott a 5% de significância. O isolado apresentou colônias com coloração cinza esverdeado, aspecto algodonoso e forma irregular. As linhagens L353 e L354 e L624 estão entre as linhagens que apresentaram maior resistência no inicio e ao longo das avaliações. A elevada virulência do isolado CF/UENF 501 possibilitou diferenciar as linhagens quanto a intensidade da doença, bem como o padrão dos sintomas apresentados.

Response to Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors in Patients with BCR-ABL1 Positive Chronic Myeloid Leukemia; 13.5 Years’ Experience at Patan Hospital, Nepal

Background:Since the advent of Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor (TKI), well controlled studies in developed world have shown that the life expectancy of patients with CML is comparable to normal people without the disease. But long-term follow up studies are lacking in resource poor setting. Methods:This is a retrospective follow up study looking at the molecular response and resistance to Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors (TKI) in patients enrolled in the Max Access Program since February 2003 till March 2017. Patients with twoor more BCR-ABL1 levels by Karyotyping/ fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) / reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) were included. At baseline, complete blood count (CBC), renal function test (RFT), and liver function test (LFT) were evaluated. Bone marrow aspiration and biopsy for morphology, cytogenetic analysis by Karyotyping/FISH and/or molecular analysis by RT-PCR were also done if these tests were not performed earlier. FISH or RT-PCR was done on peripheral blood every 3–12 months as necessary if the patient could afford. Patients with warning response/failure underwent BCR-ABL1 Resistance Mutation Analysis (IRMA).Results:Three hundred and forty six (346) patients had two or more BCR-ABL1 monitoring tests done. Optimal response was seen in 49.42%. Similarly, suboptimal response and failure were seen in 16.5% and 34% respectively. Overall Survival is 89.6% (at 1.8 -165 months, mean 62 months) . If only CML related events is considered survival is 95.9%. Seventy seven (77) patients with a total of 80 BCR-ABL1 domain Imatinib Resistance Mutation Analyses (IRMA) showed 19 different types of mutations with the most common being T315I mutation (8 and 19.5%). About 22.25% of the total patients showed resistance to Glivec out of which 10.98% showed mutations. Nine patients underwent trial for treatment free response (TFR) and 5 of them relapsed between 2-8 months.Conclusions:Despite all the odds of having financial problem, accessibility problem due to distances, transportation, etc. and difficulty monitoring with routine BCR-ABL1 and IRMA, our findings show that the outcome of TKI therapy in our CML patients is comparable to well controlled studies done elsewhere. Overall survival, molecular and cytogenetic responses and mutations in our patients who developed resistance as well as TFR are also similar to other studies. The resistance rate of 22.25% is slightly higher compared to other studies in developed world. This is mainly because of poor monitoring due to unavailability of the test including IRMA in our country and affordability until 2012. It proves that TKI is very effective in CML even in a resource-poor, developing country

An In-vitro Study of the Effect of Hydroethanol Extract of Annona senegalensis Leaves on Bitis rhinoceros (Viperidae) Venom Induced Coagulopathy

Bites of Bitis Rhinoceros (Viperidae) usually cause a hemorrhagic syndrome in the victims. This is a medical emergency. Antivenom immunotherapy remains effective. However, its availability and cost still limiting its use in Africa in general and in Côte d'Ivoire particularly. The roots of a plant of the Annonaceae family (Annona senegalensis) are used in Côte d'Ivoire to treat cases of envenomations by Viperidae. The objective of this work is to study the modulation of the effect of Bitis rhinoceros venom on coagulation parameters by the hydroethanol extract of Annona senegalensis leaves. The phytochemical study of the plant was carried out by monitoring effect of the venom on three blood coagulation parameters (PT, APTT, Fibrinogen) from healthy individuals in the presence and absence of the hydro-ethanolic extract. Phytochemistry revealed the presence of saponins, tannins, and polyphenolic compounds including flavonoids in this plant. The study of the effect of the venom showed that at the concentration of 10-2 mg/mL the venom of Bitis rhinoceros modifies some coagulation parameters by the decrease of half of the prothrombin rate, the increase of the coagulation time. It has no effect on the fibrinogen level. The effect of this venom is inhibited by 1 mg/mL of the hydroethanol extract. The leaves of Annona senegalensis contain molecules that could neutralize the action of the venom in the coagulation disorder.

Ovarian hormones influence immune response to liver ischemia-reperfusion

Liver injury occurs after ischemia and reperfusion (IR), as seen in transplant settings. Sex hormones have been implicated in many pathophysiological mechanisms in females and this could lead to liver protection under inflammatory reperfusion conditions where an excessive immune response occurs. Despite such assumptions, this fact needs to be further investigated. To address this, female and male C57BL/6J mice (8-12 weeks old) were studied. Bilateral ovariectomy (OVX) was performed in females to decrease estradiol levels. IR was performed, and after two weeks, all animals underwent a sham control operation or IR with euthanasia at the following time points after reperfusion: 6, 12, 24, and 48 h. IR triggered an inflammatory process in the liver with recruitment of neutrophils into the parenchyma of male mice. The female sham mice were protected against liver IR presenting no alteration of aminotransferase (ALT) levels compared to males. OVX caused loss of protection, increasing hepatic injury as represented by increased ALT levels and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity. Female sham mice showed increased Akt phosphorylation and activation, while males showed reduced Akt activation. Estradiol pretreatment recovered ALT levels after IR injury, which was associated with decreased liver injury.

Predictors and Outcome of in-Hospital Cardiac Arrest Patients in Emergency Department Suez Canal University Hospitals

Background: In-hospital cardiac arrest (IHCA) is defined as cessation of cardiac activity, confirmed by the absence of signs of circulation, in a hospitalized patient who had a pulse at the time of admission. The purpose of the present study was to record the definitive predictors of IHCA, focusing on the relation between cause and outcome as well as the influence of location on survival. Subjects and Methods: This prospective observational study (cross sectional) was carried out in Emergency Department at Suez Canal University Hospital and included 223 patients experiencing IHCA at the Emergency Department (ED). Results: Our study showed return of spontanous circulation (ROSC) rate of 27.4%, which is lower than those reported in other studies from the region. In our study, we found that the overall mean duration for comprehensive cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) was 21 min (SD ± 10).We found that Pulse, RR, BP, Witnessed and advanced life support (ALS) interventions at time of event were significant positive predictors to ROSC with patients while age, modified early warning score (MEWS), Interval between collapse to start CPR and CPR duration were negative predictors to cognitive impairment with diabetic patients. Conclusions: IHCA can be predicted using different variable related to patients vital data, laboratories, radiological investigations and patient demographic data which helps in predicting and modifying the outcome in limited situations.

The prevalence and related factors of pre?diabetes and diabetes among overweight and obese children in Urban schools

Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of pre?diabetes and diabetes among overweight and obese children in urban schools and factors associated with them, in Batticaloa District, Sri Lanka. Methods: A school based cross?sectional descriptive study was conducted to collect data on socio-demographic information, eating habits and physical activities, using a validated, pre-tested questionnaire. In addition, anthropometric measurements and glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) test were performed. Multivariate logistic regression analyze was performed to identify the factors associated with glycemic status by using SPSS v23. Results: Out of the 269 children recruited, 59% were obese. Prevalence of pre?diabetes (HbA1c 5.7%�4%) and diabetes (HbA1c ? 6.5%) were 20.1% (95% CI 15.5%�.4%) and 3.3% (95% CI 1.5%�3%) respectively. Multivariate regression shows that having a BMI of ? 27.5Kg/m2 (AOR=2.69), male gender (AOR=2.71) and ethnicity (AOR = 2.58) were found to be significant factors for higher HbA1c (?5.7%). Conclusions: Prevalence of prediabetes and diabetes among overweight and obese school children was high and mainly associated with body weight which is a modifiable risk factor. Lifestyle modifications focusing on weight reduction among overweight and obese school children especially boys, need to be carried out.

Sensitivity of hyperparasitic fungi to alternative products for use in the control of papaya black spot / Sensibilidade de fungos hiperparasitas a produtos alternativos para uso no controle da pinta preta do mamoeiro

Abstract The use of more than one control technique can maximize the reduction of the damages caused by the fungus Asperisporium caricae causal agent of the black spot in the papaya crop. The objective of this work was to evaluate the sensitivity of the fungi Hansfordia pulvinata and Acremonium spp. to alternative products with potential for use in the control of the black-spotted ptarmigan. Three isolates of Acremonium spp. (A-598, A-602 and A-617) and an isolate of H. pulvinata (H-611) were grown in BDA medium containing Agro-Mos®, Bion®, Ecolife®, Hortifospk®, Matriz G®, Vitaphol® separately. The Amistar 500WG ® fungicide was used as a positive control and pure BDA as a negative control. The toxicity of the tested products was determined based on the values of the biological index, derived from the means of mycelial growth, sporulation and germination of conidia, in each experimental unit. In this way it was possible to select the products classified as compatible for all isolates, and to test them in vivo. In the greenhouse, only the isolates and isolates with selected products, were applied in papaya plants with foliar symptoms of black-spotted. The incidence of leaves with hyperparasites and the percentage of black-painted lesions colonized by the tested isolates were evaluated. Thus, the H-611 isolate proved to be compatible with most of the alternative products tested, except with Hortifos®. Bion® and Matrix® products were compatible with all tested isolates and could be used in conjunction with Acremonium spp. and H. pulvinata to control the papaya black spot, since these products did not present toxicity on the hyperparasitic fungi.

Resumo O uso de mais de uma técnica de controle pode maximizar a redução dos danos causados pelo fungo Asperisporium caricae agente causal da pinta preta na cultura do mamoeiro. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a sensibilidade dos fungos Hansfordia pulvinata e Acremonium spp. a produtos alternativos com potencial para uso no controle da pinta-preta. Três isolados de Acremonium spp. (A-598, A-602 e A-617) e um isolado de H. pulvinata (H-611) foram cultivados em meio BDA contendo Agro-Mos®, Bion®, Ecolife®, Hortifospk®, Matriz G®, Vitaphol® separadamente. Fungicida Amistar 500WG® foi utilizado como controle positivo e BDA puro, como controle negativo. A toxicidade dos produtos testados foi determinada com base nos valores do índice biológico, provenientes das médias do crescimento micelial, esporulação e germinação de conídios, em cada unidade experimental. Dessa forma foi possível selecionar os produtos classificados como compatíveis para todos os isolados, e testá-los in vivo. Em casa de vegetação, somente os isolados e os isolados com produtos selecionados, foram aplicados em plantas de mamoeiro com sintomas foliares de pinta-preta. Avaliaram-se a incidência de folhas com hiperparasitas e a porcentagem de lesões de pinta-preta colonizadas pelos isolados testados. Assim o isolado H-611 mostrou-se compatível com a maioria dos produtos alternativos testados, exceto com Hortifos®. Os produtos Bion® e Matriz® apresentaram compatibilidade com todos os isolados testados, podendo ser utilizados em conjunto com o Acremonium spp. e H. pulvinata para controlar a pinta-preta do mamoeiro, uma vez que estes produtos não apresentaram toxidade sobre os fungos hiperparasitas.

Gestational echobiometry in brachycephalic bitches using high-definition ultrasonography

ABSTRACT: The objective of the present study was to obtain echobiometric values for the most important canine maternal-fetal tissues using high-definition ultrasonography (HDUS) trying to update the formulas for predicting gestational age. Twelve healthy bitches of brachycephalic breeds weighing 7-13kg and aged one to four years were included. The fetuses were analyzed every day using conventional and high-definition ultrasonography from the eighth day after artificial insemination until the day of delivery, using the ACUSON S2000/SIEMENS ultrasound equipment and specific software. Embryonic and fetal structures; diameter of the embryonic vesicle; length of the embryo; biparietal diameter, abdominal length and kidney height; length of the femur, humerus, scapula, radius, and tibia; thickening of the stomach wall; adrenal length; and cardiac size were measured. These variables were correlated with gestational and adjusted tested according to regression models. The results obtained (P 0.001) for: lateral diameter of the gestational sac (R2=81.8%); length of the embryo (R2=85.7%); biparietal (R2=99.1%) and abdominal diameter (R2=97.2%); thickness of the gastric wall (R2=86.9%); length of the femur (R2=96.6%), radius (R2=97.5%), humerus (R2=96.5%), scapula (R2=95.8%) and tibia (R2=97.3%); kidney length (R2=95.8%) and height (R2=96.0%); adrenal length (R2=89.6%); heart length (R2=93.0%) and height (R2=91.5%) of the canine fetuses showed significant correlation with gestational days. This allowed monitoring fetal growth and estimation of age with high accuracy in different gestational periods.

RESUMO: O objetivo do presente estudo foi obter valores ecobiométricos para os tecidos materno-fetais caninos, usando a ultrassonografia de alta definição (HDUS), desenvolvendo fórmulas para prever a idade gestacional das cadelas. Doze cadelas saudáveis de raças braquicefálicas pesando 7-13kg e com idades entre um e quatro anos foram incluídas. Os fetos foram analisados diariamente com ultrassonografia convencional e de alta definição, do oitavo dia após a inseminação artificial até o dia do parto, utilizando o equipamento de ultrassom ACUSON S2000/SIEMENS e software específico. Estruturas embrionárias e fetais; diâmetro da vesícula embrionária; comprimento do embrião; diâmetro biparietal, comprimento abdominal e altura renal; comprimento do fêmur, úmero, escápula, rádio e tíbia; espessamento da parede do estômago; comprimento adrenal; e tamanho cardíaco foram medidos. Essas variáveis foram correlacionadas com o teste gestacional e ajustado de acordo com os modelos de regressão. Os resultados obtidos (P 0,001) para: diâmetro lateral do saco gestacional (R2=81,8%); comprimento do embrião (R2=85,7%); diâmetro biparietal (R2=99,1%) e abdominal (R2=97,2%); espessura da parede gástrica (R2=86,9%); comprimento do fêmur (R2=96,6%), rádio (R2=97,5%), úmero (R2=96,5%), escápula (R2=95,8%) e tíbia (R2=97,3%); comprimento do rim (R2=95,8%) e altura (R2=96,0%); comprimento adrenal (R2=89,6%); o comprimento do coração (R2=93,0%) e a altura (R2=91,5%) dos fetos caninos apresentaram correlação significativa com os dias gestacionais. Isso permitiu monitorar o crescimento fetal e estimar a idade com alta precisão em diferentes períodos gestacionais.

Gestational echobiometry in brachycephalic bitches using high-definition ultrasonography / Ecobiometria gestacional em cadelas braquicefálicas utilizando ultrassonografia de alta-definição

The objective of the present study was to obtain echobiometric values for the most important canine maternal-fetal tissues using high-definition ultrasonography (HDUS) trying to update the formulas for predicting gestational age. Twelve healthy bitches of brachycephalic breeds weighing 7-13kg and aged one to four years were included. The fetuses were analyzed every day using conventional and high-definition ultrasonography from the eighth day after artificial insemination until the day of delivery, using the ACUSON S2000/SIEMENS ultrasound equipment and specific software. Embryonic and fetal structures; diameter of the embryonic vesicle; length of the embryo; biparietal diameter, abdominal length and kidney height; length of the femur, humerus, scapula, radius, and tibia; thickening of the stomach wall; adrenal length; and cardiac size were measured. These variables were correlated with gestational and adjusted tested according to regression models. The results obtained (P<0.001) for: lateral diameter of the gestational sac (R2=81.8%); length of the embryo (R2=85.7%); biparietal (R2=99.1%) and abdominal diameter (R2=97.2%); thickness of the gastric wall (R2=86.9%); length of the femur (R2=96.6%), radius (R2=97.5%), humerus (R2=96.5%), scapula (R2=95.8%) and tibia (R2=97.3%); kidney length (R2=95.8%) and height (R2=96.0%); adrenal length (R2=89.6%); heart length (R2=93.0%) and height (R2=91.5%) of the canine fetuses showed significant correlation with gestational days. This allowed monitoring fetal growth and estimation of age with high accuracy in different gestational periods.(AU)

O objetivo do presente estudo foi obter valores ecobiométricos para os tecidos materno-fetais caninos, usando a ultrassonografia de alta definição (HDUS), desenvolvendo fórmulas para prever a idade gestacional das cadelas. Doze cadelas saudáveis de raças braquicefálicas pesando 7-13kg e com idades entre um e quatro anos foram incluídas. Os fetos foram analisados diariamente com ultrassonografia convencional e de alta definição, do oitavo dia após a inseminação artificial até o dia do parto, utilizando o equipamento de ultrassom ACUSON S2000/SIEMENS e software específico. Estruturas embrionárias e fetais; diâmetro da vesícula embrionária; comprimento do embrião; diâmetro biparietal, comprimento abdominal e altura renal; comprimento do fêmur, úmero, escápula, rádio e tíbia; espessamento da parede do estômago; comprimento adrenal; e tamanho cardíaco foram medidos. Essas variáveis foram correlacionadas com o teste gestacional e ajustado de acordo com os modelos de regressão. Os resultados obtidos (P<0,001) para: diâmetro lateral do saco gestacional (R2=81,8%); comprimento do embrião (R2=85,7%); diâmetro biparietal (R2=99,1%) e abdominal (R2=97,2%); espessura da parede gástrica (R2=86,9%); comprimento do fêmur (R2=96,6%), rádio (R2=97,5%), úmero (R2=96,5%), escápula (R2=95,8%) e tíbia (R2=97,3%); comprimento do rim (R2=95,8%) e altura (R2=96,0%); comprimento adrenal (R2=89,6%); o comprimento do coração (R2=93,0%) e a altura (R2=91,5%) dos fetos caninos apresentaram correlação significativa com os dias gestacionais. Isso permitiu monitorar o crescimento fetal e estimar a idade com alta precisão em diferentes períodos gestacionais.(AU)

Review on Dew Process and Its Contribution in Maize Water Requirement at Nalohou (Northern Benin)

Climate change is a scientific issue of global interest and Africa is one of the most vulnerable regions in the world strongly affected by its consequences in water resources for agriculture. Adaptation to climate change is one of the fundamental measures for human beings. Therefore, extensive researches on dew process have been carried out worldwide. Based on articles and relevant documents on the subject, this paper reviews the latest researches achievement in several domains of science, including measurements technics and dew possible contribution in plants water requirement satisfaction. A case study in Benin climate (West Africa) compares the probable amount of dew that can be harvested by maize canopy as water during the main stages of its growth cycle. Evaluation of dew amount and maize water requirements are done using the Penman-Monteith equation. The theoretical results show that dew can contribute for about 9 to 10% in the IZEE-W-SR-(ODE-TUWE) corn variety’s water requirements. So, future researches on dew can be performed in arid and semi-arid areas as alternative water for agriculture.

Boswellia serrata Derived Phytochemicals against Dysentery

Dysentery is an intestinal inflammation, primarily of the colon. Nature is a major source of medicines for different diseases like Dysentery. Phytochemicals from Boswellia serrata plant extract can cure Dysentery. This objective of the study is to identify the phytochemical of Boswellia serrata capable of curing Dysentery. Molecular docking method applied using “Biovia DiscoveryStudio”. “High positive values of -CDOCKER energy and -CDOCKER interaction energy” suggested that p-cymene can effectively deactivate the enzyme, thereby interrupting the life cycle of the organism

Alpinia galanga Derived Phytochemicals against Shikimate Dehydrogenase Causing Peptic Ulcer

Phytochemicals can be derived from different parts of plants. Different medicinal plants and their phytoextracts have shown anti-microbial action. These medicinal plants play a key role in human health care. Phytochemicals from Alpinia galanga plant extract are traditionally used to cure PepticUlcer. The objective of the study is to identify the phytochemical of Alpinia galanga capable of curing Peptic Ulcer. Molecular docking method applied using “Biovia Discovery Studio”. “High positive values of -CDOCKER energy and -CDOCKER interaction energy” suggested that Alpinia galanga derived Phytochemicals cannot act effectively against Peptic Ulcer caused by Helicobacter pylori.

Syzygium aromaticum Derived Phytochemicals against Infections in Feet Crack Caused by Trichophyton rubrum

Phytochemicals from Syzygium aromaticum plant extract traditionally used to cure Feet Crack. Molecular docking method applied using “Biovia Discovery Studio”. “High positive values of -CDOCKER energy and -CDOCKER interaction energy” suggested that Myricetin can effectively deactivate the dihydrofolate reductase enzyme thereby interrupting the life cycle of the organism

Santalum album L. Derived Phytochemicals against Jaundice

Phytochemicals are produced by plants as secondary metabolites to protect the plants from predators. When the parts of the plant, which are rich in different phytochemical constituents, are consumed by humans, they can cure different diseases. Phytochemicals from Santalum albumplant extract are traditionally used to cure Jaundice. Molecular docking method applied using “Biovia Discovery Studio”. “High positive values of -CDOCKER energy and -CDOCKER interaction energy” suggested that Isohamnetin can effectively deactivate the enzyme, thereby interrupting the life cycle of the organism

Piper nigrum Derived Phytochemicals against Gonorrhoea

Phytochemicals from Piper nigrum plant extract are traditionally used to cure Gonorrhoea. It is caused by Neisseria gonnorrhoeae. Molecular docking method applied using “Biovia Discovery Studio”. “High positive values of -CDOCKER energy and -CDOCKER interaction energy” suggested that p-cymenecan effectively deactivate the dihydrofolate reductase enzyme thereby interrupting the life cycle of the organism

A New Validated Third Order Derivative Spectroscopic Method For Simultaneous Estimation Of Metoprolol Succinate And Ramipril In Tablet Dosage Form

Objective: The objective of the present work is to develop and validate a new UV derivative spectrophotometric method for simultaneous estimation of metoprolol succinate and ramipril in methanol: water (50:50v/v). Methods: “Zero crossing technique” was chosen for quantitative determination. The zero-crossing points (ZCP’s) were found to be 209 nm where metoprolol succinate was quantified and 211 nm where ramipril was quantified. This method was then subjected to accuracy, linearity, sensitivity and reproducibility according to ICH guidelines to ensure and confirm its validity. Results: The method was found to be obeying Beer’s law in the range of 10-50 µg/ml and 5-25 µg/ml for metoprolol succinate and ramipril, respectively. The % recoveries were observed between the range of 99.2-100.2 for metoprolol succinate and 99.57-99.86 for ramipril. The intra-day and inter-day results showed reproducibility. Conclusion: It can be concluded that the developed third-order UV derivative spectroscopic method for the simultaneous determination of metoprolol succinate and ramiprilcan be recommended for routine quantitative analysis.

A retrospective study of antimicrobial usage in wound healing

Background: Chronic wounds are responsible for increase in burden to healthcare systems. The evidence concerning effectiveness of antibiotic therapy or optimal regimens is insufficient. Patients with chronic wounds receive significantly more systemic and topical antibiotics. Current guidelines for antibiotic prescribing for such wounds are often based on expert opinion rather than scientific fact. As there is increasing prevalence of antibiotic resistance, the relationships between antibiotic resistance and rationales for antibiotic therapy have to be determined. Current practice of antibiotic usage for chronic wounds and postoperative wounds in a tertiary care setting should be studied.Methods: Retrospective study was conducted from February 2017 to February 2018 using medical records of patients with wound admitted in surgical departments in HIMS, Hassan, Karnataka. The inpatient records were analysed, which includes duration of stay in the hospital, number of drugs/products per person, percentage of antibiotics prescribed, percentage of antibiotic injection prescribed, and other modalities used to treat wounds.Results: In present study, amongst 100 antimicrobial prescriptions, 26 females and 74 males. The most commonly prescribed parenteral antibiotic was ceftriaxone (58%), followed by metronidazole (56%). The average number of antibiotics per prescription was 2.8. The mean duration parenteral antibiotics given was 4.26 days during their hospital stay oral antibiotics were 5.18 days after the discharge from the hospital.Conclusions: The information generated shall be used to decide the policies to govern the prescription of antibiotics in the management of chronic wounds and post-operative wounds.

Non-pharmacological Management of Procedural Pain in Children: Health Worker’s Approach at a Tertiary Health Facility, Southern Nigeria

Introduction: Pain is one of the most recurrent complaints obtainable in paediatric settings especially while carrying out procedures. The emergency section is averytaskingplaceforchildren. Hence itisimportant for health care workers to follow a child focussed or individual methods in their assessment and management of pain and painful procedures.Aim:To determine health workers’ approach towards non-pharmacological management of procedural pain in children at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH). Methods: Thisdescriptive cross-sectional study was carried out between November 2019 and January 2020. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to retrieve information on biodata, knowledge and practice of non -pharmacological management of procedural pain in children. Data was entered into Microsoft Excel spread sheet and analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 21.Results: Respondents in this study included 25(24.8%) physicians and 61(60.4%) nurses. Forty-four respondents (43.5%) had more than 10 years’ workexperience. Self-development 59 (58.4%) was the most common source of knowledge of paediatric pain management. Fourteen(13.9%) respondents knewthe appropriate time of applying non-pharmacological measures of which distraction was the most common strategy mentioned (n=85, 84.2%) and used (36%). Nurses were significantly more knowledgeable about non-pharmacological methods of pain management in children (p= .000).Conclusion: There are gaps in knowledge and practice of clinicians concerning use of non-pharmacological interventions in the management of procedural pain in children. Development of a standard protocol would be an asset. There is need for necessary tools, and institutional commitment to adequate pain relief for children in our institution

Post-operative Paediatric Pain Assessment and Management at a Tertiary Health Facility, Southern Nigeria: Surgeons’ Perspectives and Practice

Introduction:Whereas advances in perioperative care of children continue to be made with increasing evidence-based practice for postoperative analgesia, inadequate relief of postoperative pain resulting in significant morbidity and mortality is still being reported.Objective:To appraise surgeons' perspectives and practice of paediatric post-operative pain assessment and management at a tertiary health facility in southern Nigeria.Methods: In this cross-sectional survey carried out between September and December 2019, asemi-structured and self-administered questionnaire was distributed to surgeons/trainees in departments/units where paediatric patients undergo both major and minor surgeries. Their perspectives and practice of postoperative pain assessment and management were analysed using SPSS version 20.0.Results:Seventy-nine respondents completed the survey, including 19(24%) consultants, 32(40.5%) senior registrars, and 22(27.9%) junior registrars. Two-third of respondents (n=51, 64.6%) had more than 10 years working experience post-graduation. Involving parents/caregiverso assess postoperative pain was the most common strategy used by respondents (n=69, 87.3%), and most of them (n=67, 84.8%) do not make use of any pain assessment tools. Non-pharmacologic strategies for postoperative pain management were applied/prescribed sometimes (n=20, 25%) or rarely (n=20, 25%). Paracetamol and NSAIDs were the commonest non-opioid analgesics used while pentazocine was the commonly used opioid. Many respondents (n=66, 83.5%) had never prescribed morphine for postoperative analgesia in children. Seventeen percent of respondents do not prescribe postoperative analgesia to newborns.Conclusion:Findings of this study show that the practice in our institution falls short of the recommended multimodal approach to paediatric postoperative pain care.Development of standard protocols and training of providers of postoperative care are recommended.