Effect of Moringa olifera leaves on growth and gut microbiota of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)

Abstract The study was conducted to evaluate the effect of Moringa olifera on the growth and gut health of Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). The feed having 30% crude protein was prepared as an experimental diet with 4%, 8% and 10% M. olifera leaf supplementation, respectively. The control diet was devoid of M. olifera leaves. The 10 weeks feeding trial was carried out on 60 fish in aquaria. Fish was fed @ 3% of body weight twice a day. Diet with the high level of inclusion of M. olifera leaves significantly increased the growth rate, Survival Rate (SR), Specific Growth Rate (SGR) and Feed Conversion Efficiency (FCE) in all treatment groups compared to the control group. Similarly, Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR) gradually decreased and found highly-significant. To check the gut health of the Tilapia, random samples were selected and dissected. Nutrient agar was used as culture media to check the growth of bacteria. Pour Plate Method was used for viable colonies count by colony counter. Through staining method, the different bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Salmonella, Shigella and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were identify abundantly in the intestine of control diet fish but less number present in treatment diets groups. These results showed that M. olifera leaves up to 10% of dietary protein can be used for Nile tilapia for significant growth and healthy gut microbiota of fish.

Resumo O estudo foi conduzido para avaliar o efeito da Moringa olifera no crescimento e saúde intestinal da tilápia (Oreochromis niloticus). A ração com 30% de proteína bruta foi preparada como dieta experimental com 4%, 8% e 10% de suplementação de folhas de M. olifera, respectivamente. A dieta controle foi desprovida de folhas de M. olifera. O ensaio de alimentação de 10 semanas foi realizado em 60 peixes em aquários. O peixe pesava 3% do peso corporal duas vezes ao dia. A dieta com alto nível de inclusão de folhas de M. olifera aumentou significativamente a taxa de crescimento, taxa de sobrevivência (SR), taxa de crescimento de sobrevivência (SGR) e eficiência de conversão alimentar (FCE) em todos os grupos de tratamento em comparação com o grupo de controle. Da mesma forma, a taxa de conversão de alimentação (FCR) diminuiu gradualmente e foi considerada altamente significativa. Para verificar a saúde intestinal da tilápia, amostras aleatórias foram selecionadas e dissecadas. O ágar nutriente foi usado como meio de cultura para verificar o crescimento das bactérias. O método da placa de Verter foi usado para a contagem de colônias viáveis por contador de colônias. Através do método de coloração, diferentes como Escherichia coli, Salmonella, Shigella e Pseudomonas aeruginosa foram identificados abundantemente no intestino de peixes da dieta controle, mas em menor número nos grupos de dieta de tratamento. Esses resultados mostraram que M. olifera deixa até 10% da proteína dietética e pode ser usado para tilápia do Nilo para um crescimento significativo e microbiota intestinal saudável de peixes.

Forest yield prediction under different climate change scenarios using data intelligent models in Pakistan

Abstract This study aimed to develop and evaluate data driven models for prediction of forest yield under different climate change scenarios in the Gallies forest division of district Abbottabad, Pakistan. The Random Forest (RF) and Kernel Ridge Regression (KRR) models were developed and evaluated using yield data of two species (Blue pine and Silver fir) as an objective variable and climate data (temperature, humidity, rainfall and wind speed) as predictive variables. Prediction accuracy of both the models were assessed by means of root mean squared error (RMSE), mean absolute error (MAE), correlation coefficient (r), relative root mean squared error (RRMSE), Legates-McCabes (LM), Willmotts index (WI) and Nash-Sutcliffe (NSE) metrics. Overall, the RF model outperformed the KRR model due to its higher accuracy in forecasting of forest yield. The study strongly recommends that RF model should be applied in other regions of the country for prediction of forest growth and yield, which may help in the management and future planning of forest productivity in Pakistan.

Resumo Este estudo teve como objetivo desenvolver e avaliar modelos baseados em dados para previsão da produção florestal em diferentes cenários de mudanças climáticas na divisão florestal Gallies do distrito de Abbottabad, Paquistão. Os modelos Random Forest (RF) e Kernel Ridge Regression (KRR) foram desenvolvidos e avaliados usando dados de produção de duas espécies (pinheiro-azul e abeto-prateado) como uma variável objetiva e dados climáticos (temperatura, umidade, precipitação e velocidade do vento) como preditivos variáveis. A precisão da previsão de ambos os modelos foi avaliada por meio de erro quadrático médio (RMSE), erro absoluto médio (MAE), coeficiente de correlação (r), erro quadrático médio relativo (RRMSE), Legates-McCabes (LM), índice de Willmott (WI) e métricas Nash-Sutcliffe (NSE). No geral, o modelo RF superou o modelo KRR devido à sua maior precisão na previsão do rendimento florestal. O estudo recomenda fortemente que o modelo RF seja aplicado em outras regiões do país para previsão do crescimento e produtividade florestal, o que pode ajudar no manejo e planejamento futuro da produtividade florestal no Paquistão.

Forest yield prediction under different climate change scenarios using data intelligent models in Pakistan / Previsão de produção florestal em diferentes cenários de mudanças climáticas usando modelos inteligentes de dados no Paquistão

Abstract This study aimed to develop and evaluate data driven models for prediction of forest yield under different climate change scenarios in the Gallies forest division of district Abbottabad, Pakistan. The Random Forest (RF) and Kernel Ridge Regression (KRR) models were developed and evaluated using yield data of two species (Blue pine and Silver fir) as an objective variable and climate data (temperature, humidity, rainfall and wind speed) as predictive variables. Prediction accuracy of both the models were assessed by means of root mean squared error (RMSE), mean absolute error (MAE), correlation coefficient (r), relative root mean squared error (RRMSE), Legates-McCabe's (LM), Willmott's index (WI) and Nash-Sutcliffe (NSE) metrics. Overall, the RF model outperformed the KRR model due to its higher accuracy in forecasting of forest yield. The study strongly recommends that RF model should be applied in other regions of the country for prediction of forest growth and yield, which may help in the management and future planning of forest productivity in Pakistan.

Resumo Este estudo teve como objetivo desenvolver e avaliar modelos baseados em dados para previsão da produção florestal em diferentes cenários de mudanças climáticas na divisão florestal Gallies do distrito de Abbottabad, Paquistão. Os modelos Random Forest (RF) e Kernel Ridge Regression (KRR) foram desenvolvidos e avaliados usando dados de produção de duas espécies (pinheiro-azul e abeto-prateado) como uma variável objetiva e dados climáticos (temperatura, umidade, precipitação e velocidade do vento) como preditivos variáveis. A precisão da previsão de ambos os modelos foi avaliada por meio de erro quadrático médio (RMSE), erro absoluto médio (MAE), coeficiente de correlação (r), erro quadrático médio relativo (RRMSE), Legates-McCabe's (LM), índice de Willmott (WI) e métricas Nash-Sutcliffe (NSE). No geral, o modelo RF superou o modelo KRR devido à sua maior precisão na previsão do rendimento florestal. O estudo recomenda fortemente que o modelo RF seja aplicado em outras regiões do país para previsão do crescimento e produtividade florestal, o que pode ajudar no manejo e planejamento futuro da produtividade florestal no Paquistão.

Effect of Moringa olifera leaves on growth and gut microbiota of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) / Efeito das folhas da Moringa olifera no crescimento e na microbiota intestinal da tilápia do Nilo (Oreochromis niloticus)

Abstract The study was conducted to evaluate the effect of Moringa olifera on the growth and gut health of Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). The feed having 30% crude protein was prepared as an experimental diet with 4%, 8% and 10% M. olifera leaf supplementation, respectively. The control diet was devoid of M. olifera leaves. The 10 weeks feeding trial was carried out on 60 fish in aquaria. Fish was fed @ 3% of body weight twice a day. Diet with the high level of inclusion of M. olifera leaves significantly increased the growth rate, Survival Rate (SR), Specific Growth Rate (SGR) and Feed Conversion Efficiency (FCE) in all treatment groups compared to the control group. Similarly, Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR) gradually decreased and found highly-significant. To check the gut health of the Tilapia, random samples were selected and dissected. Nutrient agar was used as culture media to check the growth of bacteria. Pour Plate Method was used for viable colonies count by colony counter. Through staining method, the different bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Salmonella, Shigella and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were identify abundantly in the intestine of control diet fish but less number present in treatment diets groups. These results showed that M. olifera leaves up to 10% of dietary protein can be used for Nile tilapia for significant growth and healthy gut microbiota of fish.

Resumo O estudo foi conduzido para avaliar o efeito da Moringa olifera no crescimento e saúde intestinal da tilápia (Oreochromis niloticus). A ração com 30% de proteína bruta foi preparada como dieta experimental com 4%, 8% e 10% de suplementação de folhas de M. olifera, respectivamente. A dieta controle foi desprovida de folhas de M. olifera. O ensaio de alimentação de 10 semanas foi realizado em 60 peixes em aquários. O peixe pesava 3% do peso corporal duas vezes ao dia. A dieta com alto nível de inclusão de folhas de M. olifera aumentou significativamente a taxa de crescimento, taxa de sobrevivência (SR), taxa de crescimento de sobrevivência (SGR) e eficiência de conversão alimentar (FCE) em todos os grupos de tratamento em comparação com o grupo de controle. Da mesma forma, a taxa de conversão de alimentação (FCR) diminuiu gradualmente e foi considerada altamente significativa. Para verificar a saúde intestinal da tilápia, amostras aleatórias foram selecionadas e dissecadas. O ágar nutriente foi usado como meio de cultura para verificar o crescimento das bactérias. O método da placa de Verter foi usado para a contagem de colônias viáveis ​​por contador de colônias. Através do método de coloração, diferentes como Escherichia coli, Salmonella, Shigella e Pseudomonas aeruginosa foram identificados abundantemente no intestino de peixes da dieta controle, mas em menor número nos grupos de dieta de tratamento. Esses resultados mostraram que M. olifera deixa até 10% da proteína dietética e pode ser usado para tilápia do Nilo para um crescimento significativo e microbiota intestinal saudável de peixes.

Anti HCV activity and expression inhibition of HCC markers by protein extract from Iberis gibraltarica / Atividade anti-HCV e inibição da expressão de marcadores HCC por extrato de proteína de Iberis gibraltarica

Hepatitis C virus infection (HCV) is the foremost reason of progressive hepatic fibrosis and cirrhosis, with an elevated risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development. Medicinal plants have been used for human health benefits for several years, but their therapeutic potential needs to be explored. The main objective of this study was to figure out the in vitro antiviral and anticancer characteristics of total crude protein of Iberis gibraltarica against HCV and HCC. Total crude protein of Iberis gibraltarica was isolated and quantified. The level of cytotoxicity was measured against the HepG2 cell line and it shows no significant cytotoxicity at the concentration of 504µg/ml. The anti-HCV effect was determined by absolute quantification via real time RT-PCR method and viral titer was reduced up to 66% in a dose dependent manner against the total protein of Iberis gibraltarica. The anticancer potential of Iberis gibraltarica was also examined through mRNA expression studies of AFP and GPC3 genes against the total protein of Iberis gibraltarica-treated HepG2 cells. The results show up to 90% of the down-regulation expression of AFP and GPC3. The obtained results indicate the therapeutic potential of total protein of Iberis gibraltarica against HCV and hepatocellular carcinoma in vitro.

A infecção pelo vírus da hepatite C (HCV) é a principal causa de fibrose hepática progressiva e cirrose, com risco elevado de desenvolvimento de carcinoma hepatocelular (HCC). As plantas medicinais vêm sendo utilizadas para benefícios à saúde humana há vários anos, mas seu potencial terapêutico precisa ser explorado. O principal objetivo deste estudo foi descobrir as características antivirais e anticancerígenas in vitro da proteína bruta total de Iberis gibraltarica contra HCV e HCC. A proteína bruta total de Iberis gibraltarica foi isolada e quantificada. O nível de citotoxicidade foi medido contra a linha celular HepG2 e não apresenta citotoxicidade significativa na concentração de 504µg/ml. O efeito anti-HCV foi determinado por quantificação absoluta através do método RT-PCR em tempo real e o título viral foi reduzido em até 66% de forma dose-dependente contra a proteína total de Iberis gibraltarica. O potencial anticancerígeno de Iberis gibraltarica também foi examinado através de estudos de expressão de mRNA dos genes AFP e GPC3 contra a proteína total de células HepG2 tratadas com Iberis gibraltarica. Os resultados mostram até 90% da expressão de regulação negativa de AFP e GPC3. Os resultados obtidos indicam o potencial terapêutico da proteína total de Iberis gibraltarica contra HCV e carcinoma hepatocelular in vitro.

Current status of insecticide resistance and its underlying mechanisms in Aedes aegypti (L.) in Punjab, Pakistan

Aedes aegypti (Linnaeus) plays an important role as a vector of different deadly diseases particularly dengue fever. Insecticides are used as a primary tool to control Ae. aegypti. However, due to the excessive use of insecticides on agricultural, public health, and industrial levels, mosquitoes have developed resistance. In this study, the current susceptibility status of Ae. aegypti mosquitoes against different insecticides (Temephos, DDT, dieldrin, Malathion, Bendiocarb, Permethrin, Cypermethrin, and Lambda-cyhalothrin) was evaluated in district Lahore and district Muzaffargarh of Punjab, Pakistan. For this purpose, WHO bioassays and biochemical assays were performed on Ae. aegypti population from Lahore (APLa) and Aedes population from Muzaffargarh (APMg). Results of APLa and APMg showed high levels of resistance against the larvicide Temephos. Resistance against all adulticides was also observed in APLa and APMg (% mortality < 98%). The biochemical assays indicated statistically significant elevated levels of detoxification enzymes in APLa and APMg. APLa showed slightly higher levels as compared to APMg. Mosquitoes were also screened for the presence of kdr mutations. The results revealed no mutation in domain II while the presence of mutation F1534C in domain III was found in both field populations. The results showed the presence of moderate to high grade resistance against all insecticides in Ae. aegypti in district Lahore and district Muzaffargarh of Punjab, Pakistan

Initial experience with Scepter Mini dual lumen balloon for embolization of cerebrovascular diseases

Objective@#Endovascular treatment of cerebrovascular diseases is often challenging due to small caliber, tortuous distal vessels. Several devices and techniques have evolved to overcome these challenges. Recently, a low profile dual lumen microballoon catheter, specifically designed for distal navigation is employed for neurovascular procedures. Due to its recent advent, scarce data is available on clinical utility and safety of Scepter Mini. The aim of this case series is to report our initial experience with Scepter Mini in the management of various cerebrovascular diseases. @*Methods@#All interventional neurovascular cases performed using Scepter Mini between January 2020 till April 2021 were included. Data regarding patient demographics, procedural details and complications was retrospectively collected from patient’s electronic medical record and procedure reports. @*Results@#Total twelve embolization procedures were performed in eleven patients, including six brain arteriovenous malformation, two dural arteriovenous fistula, one vein of Galen malformation and three hyper-vascular glomus tumor embolizations. All procedures were successfully performed with adequate penetration of the embolic agent. Complete embolization was performed in six procedures, while intended partial embolization was performed in the rest of procedures. Scepter Mini was solely used in ten procedures, however in the other two embolization procedures it was used as an additional conjunct tool to complete the intended embolization. No balloon related complication was observed in any procedure. @*Conclusions@#Scepter Mini dual lumen microballoon catheter is safe and feasible for delivery of liquid embolic agents for cerebrovascular embolization procedures.

Monitoring of Insecticides resistance against cotton Jassid (Amrasca biguttutla biguttutla) under laboratory conditions / Monitoramento da resistência de inseticidas contra o algodão Jassid (Amrasca biguttutla biguttutla) em condições laboratoriais

Development of insecticides resistance mainly hinge with managements techniques for the control of Jassid, Amrasca biguttutla biguttutla. Five insecticides were applied against field collected and laboratory rared jassid populations during the years of 2017 to 2019 to profile their resistance level against field population of jassid through leaf dip method. Very low resistance level was found in jassid against confidor whereas high level of resistance was observed by pyriproxyfen against other test insecticides. Gradual resistance was observed against diafenthiuron. It is concluded that for the management of Jassid repetition of same insecticide should be avoided. The use of confidor may be reduced to overcome resistance against Jassid.

Desenvolvimento da resistência a inseticidas principalmente em dobradiça com técnicas de manejo para o controle de jassid, Amrasca biguttutla biguttutla. Cinco inseticidas foram aplicados contra populações de jassídeos coletados em campo e em laboratório durante os anos de 2017 a 2019 para traçar o perfil de seu nível de resistência contra populações de jassídeos em campo através do método de imersão nas folhas. Nível de resistência muito baixo foi encontrado em jassid contra confidor, enquanto alto nível de resistência foi observado por piriproxifeno contra outros inseticidas de teste. Resistência gradual foi observada contra o diafenthiuron. Conclui-se que, para o manejo do jassid, a repetição do mesmo inseticida deve ser evitada. O uso de confidor pode ser reduzido para superar a resistência contra jassid.

Monitoring of Insecticides resistance against cotton Jassid (Amrasca biguttutla biguttutla) under laboratory conditions

Abstract Development of insecticides resistance mainly hinge with managements techniques for the control of Jassid, Amrasca biguttutla biguttutla. Five insecticides were applied against field collected and laboratory rared jassid populations during the years of 2017 to 2019 to profile their resistance level against field population of jassid through leaf dip method. Very low resistance level was found in jassid against confidor whereas high level of resistance was observed by pyriproxyfen against other test insecticides. Gradual resistance was observed against diafenthiuron. It is concluded that for the management of Jassid repetition of same insecticide should be avoided. The use of confidor may be reduced to overcome resistance against Jassid.

Resumo Desenvolvimento da resistência a inseticidas principalmente em dobradiça com técnicas de manejo para o controle de jassid, Amrasca biguttutla biguttutla. Cinco inseticidas foram aplicados contra populações de jassídeos coletados em campo e em laboratório durante os anos de 2017 a 2019 para traçar o perfil de seu nível de resistência contra populações de jassídeos em campo através do método de imersão nas folhas. Nível de resistência muito baixo foi encontrado em jassid contra confidor, enquanto alto nível de resistência foi observado por piriproxifeno contra outros inseticidas de teste. Resistência gradual foi observada contra o diafenthiuron. Conclui-se que, para o manejo do jassid, a repetição do mesmo inseticida deve ser evitada. O uso de confidor pode ser reduzido para superar a resistência contra jassid.

Monitoring of Insecticides resistance against cotton Jassid (Amrasca biguttutla biguttutla) under laboratory conditions / Monitoramento da resistência de inseticidas contra o algodão Jassid (Amrasca biguttutla biguttutla) em condições laboratoriais

Abstract Development of insecticides resistance mainly hinge with managements techniques for the control of Jassid, Amrasca biguttutla biguttutla. Five insecticides were applied against field collected and laboratory rared jassid populations during the years of 2017 to 2019 to profile their resistance level against field population of jassid through leaf dip method. Very low resistance level was found in jassid against confidor whereas high level of resistance was observed by pyriproxyfen against other test insecticides. Gradual resistance was observed against diafenthiuron. It is concluded that for the management of Jassid repetition of same insecticide should be avoided. The use of confidor may be reduced to overcome resistance against Jassid.

Resumo Desenvolvimento da resistência a inseticidas principalmente em dobradiça com técnicas de manejo para o controle de jassid, Amrasca biguttutla biguttutla. Cinco inseticidas foram aplicados contra populações de jassídeos coletados em campo e em laboratório durante os anos de 2017 a 2019 para traçar o perfil de seu nível de resistência contra populações de jassídeos em campo através do método de imersão nas folhas. Nível de resistência muito baixo foi encontrado em jassid contra confidor, enquanto alto nível de resistência foi observado por piriproxifeno contra outros inseticidas de teste. Resistência gradual foi observada contra o diafenthiuron. Conclui-se que, para o manejo do jassid, a repetição do mesmo inseticida deve ser evitada. O uso de confidor pode ser reduzido para superar a resistência contra jassid.

COMPARISON OF THE RECOVERY RATE OF OTOMYCOSIS USING CLOTRIMAZOLE DROPS, CLOTRIMAZOLE CREAM AND 10% POVIDONE IODINE SOLUTION (BETADINE) IRRIGATION.

Otomycosis is one of the common conditions encountered in ENT practice. Difference of opinion does exist regarding ideal treatment modality. Compare the efficacy of 1% clotrimazole drops, 1% cl Aim: otrimazole cream and 10% betadine irrigation in the treatment of otomycosis. Randomized control study conducted in the Method: department of ENT and Head and Neck surgery of Government Medical College Baramulla. The study was conducted on 80 patients over a period of 6 months, clinically diagnosed with otomycosis. Patients were randomly allotted to three groups. Improvement in symptoms of pruritis, pain and blocked sensation on 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th follow up visits was recorded. All patients were asked the opinion about preferred treatment modality. When compared the Results: symptoms on day one and subsequent follow ups, the change in symptoms in all the groups was significant. Group 2 with 1% clotrimazole cream had significant improvement on first visit only. By 4th visit all the groups had significant improvement

Experiences of Stigma and Discrimination of Women Living with HIV/AIDS in Health-Care Settings of Kashmir

Stigma and discrimination create barriers for women living with HIV/AIDS (WLHA) in accessing quality health‑care services, affecting their well‑being and also increasing the number of cases. The current article studies issues of stigma and discrimination that WLHA experience in health‑care settings and highlights the importance of building awareness and sensitivity regarding HIV among all health‑care workers. This hospital‑based study was conducted in an anti‑retroviral therapy center in Kashmir. Twenty‑one WLHA participated in the study. The WLHA internalizes stigma and experiences shock, guilt, anger, and numbness while receiving a diagnosis. The stigma is socially constructed, having very little medical or logical basis. Verbal abuse, gossiping, expression of shock and disbelief of health‑care workers, discriminatory attitudes such as wearing multiple surgical gloves, denial of care and treatment, and disclosing their HIV‑positive status without their consent to their families and others have been learned. These experiences in health‑care institutions are disempowering for WLHA. Gender stereotyping and inequalities within health‑care settings and the discriminatory approach of some health practitioners toward women is the main barrier to accessing the services for HIV prevention, treatment and support services.

Determination of Shear Bond Strength of Nanocomposite to Porcelain and Metal Alloy

Abstract Objective: To compare porcelain and metal repair done with both nanocomposite and conventional composite. Material and Methods: A total of 30 cylinders were fabricated from Porcelain (I), Porcelain fused to metal (II), and metal (III) substrate each. Control group (A) was bonded with conventional micro-hybrid composite and experimental group (B) was bonded with nanocomposite in a 2 mm thickness. All specimens were thermocycled and stored in distilled water at 37 °C for 7 days. A universal testing machine was used to measure the Shear bond strength (SBS). The difference between bond strengths of the groups was compared using an independent t-test. Results: In all three groups, the SBS was higher in the experimental group as compared to the control group. The use of nanocomposite of metal alloy presented maximum shear bond strength, followed by samples of porcelain fused to metal and finally porcelain, showing the lowest values of SBS. Conclusion: Porcelain and alloys bonded with nanocomposite exhibit enhanced adhesiveness as well as aesthetic and mechanical properties. This subsequently would translate into providing higher clinical serviceability and durability and hence a cost-effective and accessible repair option for human welfare (AU).

Antibacterial potential of indigenous medicinal plants against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolated from septic wounds

Aims@#This study was aimed to screen indigenous medicinal plants for their antibacterial potential against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).@*Methodology and results@#Three indigenous plants (Nigella sativa, Zingiber officinale and Calotropis procera) and thymoquinone were screened for antibacterial activity against MRSA, isolated from septic wounds of patients admitted to Mayo Hospital Lahore, Pakistan. Isolated bacteria were screened for methicillin and cefoxitin resistance by the Kirby-Bauer method, followed by mecA gene-specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Confirmed MRSA was processed for antibacterial activity of plant extracts and thymoquinone followed by cytotoxicity assay of plant extract having least minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value. Out of total samples (n=100), S. aureus (29%), MRSA (26%) and vancomycin-resistant S. aureus (VRSA) (21.7%) isolates were recovered based on morphology, biochemical profile and antibiotic susceptibility testing. Nigella sativa showed the highest antibacterial activity (10.06 ± 6.53 mm) against MRSA followed by Z. officinale (4.06 ± 3.72 mm) and C. procera (3.65 ± 3.33 mm) in comparison to standard thymoquinone (17.93 ± 10.14 mm). The least MIC value recorded was for Z. officinale at 36.89 ± 3.75 μg/mL. Zingiber officinale was the most effective antibacterial agent, followed by N. sativa and C. procera and non-toxic for eukaryotic cells at all tested concentrations (1500 μg/mL to 2.92 μg/mL).@*Conclusion, significance and impact of study@#It was concluded that Z. officinale may be used as an effective alternative for treating septic wound infection in local or topical preparations. As pathogenic S. aureus is becoming life-threatening among antibiotic-resistant bacteria and traditional plants are in used for centuries to treat septic wound infections.

Biofuel production potential of indigenous isolates of Scenedesmus sp. from lake water in Pakistan

Aims@#This paper presents the report on biodiesel and biogas production at a laboratory scale from Scenedesmus strain.@*Methodology and results@#Previously isolated and identified Scenedesmus were grown in 10 Liter flask using BG-11 media at 16 h light and 8 h dark cycle. Oven-dried biomass (20 g) from 16-day-old culture of Scenedesmus was finely grounded and subjected to lipids extraction by chloroform-methanol-NaCl mixture. Microalgal lipids (6 mL) were subjected to transesterification by using NaOH leading to the production of 5 mL biodiesel and 4 mL of glycerin. Biodiesel was rich in methyl esters of linoleic acid, phosphorothioc acid and dodecanoic acid, as shown by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. Oven-dried microalgae (2 g) without lipid extraction and leftover biomass (2 g) after lipid extraction were subject to biogas production through anaerobic digestion. Biogas (34, 27 and 19 mL) were recorded respectively in oven-dried whole biomass; lipid extracted biomass and control over a period of 15 days of anaerobic digestion.@*Conclusion, significance and impact of study@#It was concluded that water bodies are rich in diverse algae, especially Scenedesmus sp., and this algae can be cultured to produce biodiesel and biogas. But the lipid accumulation potential of microalgae requires special treatment and lipid extraction methods are not up to the mark, which is a major bottleneck in biofuel production from microalgae.

Right cerebellar stroke with a right vertebral artery occlusion following an embolization of the right glomus tympanicum tumor: Case report with literature review

A 35-year-old female presented with episodes of frequent dizziness, ear fullness, and right ear tinnitus for 12 months. Head imaging revealed a right glomus tympanicum tumor. She underwent pre-operative endovascular embolization of the glomus tympanicum tumor with surgical, cyanoacrylate-based glue. Immediately after the procedure, she developed drowsiness and severe pain in the right temporal region. Further investigations revealed a right cerebellar stroke in the posterior inferior cerebellar artery territory. She was treated with intravenous heparin, followed by one year of oral anticoagulation. With rehabilitation, she significantly recovered from her post embolization stroke. However, the tumor was resected at another institution. Ten years later, follow-up imaging indicated a gradual increase in the size of the glomus jugulare tumor compressing the nearby critical vascular structures. She subsequently received radiation therapy to treat the residual tumor. Currently, she has no neurological deficit, but her mild dizziness, right ear tinnitus, and hearing impairment persist.

Antibacterial activity of plant essential oils against indigenously characterized methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)

@#Plant essential oils were evaluated for antimicrobial activity against Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The isolates (n=03) were procured from Institute of Microbiology, UVAS Lahore, Pakistan. After biochemical and 16S rRNA gene-based PCR characterization, accession numbers were retrieved from NCBI i.e. MW344063.1, MW344064.1 and MW344065.1. These isolates exhibited molecular positivity by multiplex PCR for mecA, coa and eta toxin genes. Moreover, these isolates exhibited resistance to cefoxitin, ampicillin, amoxicillin, penicillin, amoxicillin clavulanate, ciprofloxacin, erythromycin and gentamicin. The antibiotic resistant isolates were evaluated for antimicrobial activity of plant essential oils. The highest zone of inhibition (mean ZOI±S.D.) was measured for Cinnamomum verum (22.67±1.52 mm) followed by Eucalyptus globulus (18.67±2.51 mm) and Syzygium aromaticum (12.67±2.51 mm). Lowest mean MIC value (0.33±0.11 mg/mL) was recorded for E. globulus. Eucalyptus globulus was processed for fractionation by column chromatography and n-hexane, chloroform, n-hexane + chloroform and ethyl-acetate fractions were evaluated for antibacterial activity. Lowest mean MIC (10.04±5.80 mg/mL) was recorded for E. globulus n-hexane fraction. Cell survival percentage of BHK21 cell line was 51.7% at 54.87mg/mL concentration of E. globulus n-hexane fraction. Through gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis of n-hexane fraction, benzene was found abundant (29.9%) as active compound. It was concluded that E. globulus n-hexane fraction exhibited significantly promising results against MRSA.

Prospect of microbial food borne diseases in Pakistan: a review / Perspectiva de doenças microbianas transmitidas por alimentos no Paquistão: uma revisão

Abstract Nowadays food borne illness is most common in people due to their epidemic nature. These diseases affect the human digestive system through bacteria, viruses and parasites. The agents of illness are transmitted in our body through various types of food items, water and uncooked. Pathogens show drastic changes in immunosuppressant people. This review gives general insights to harmful microbial life. Pakistan is a developed country and because of its improper food management, a lot of gastrointestinal problems are noted in many patients. Bacteria are most common agents to spread diarrhoea, villi infection, constipation and dysenteric disease in human and induce the rejection of organ transplant. Enhancement of their lifestyle, properly cooked food should be used and to overcome the outbreak of the diseases.

Resumo Hoje em dia, as doenças transmitidas por alimentos são mais comuns em pessoas devido à sua natureza epidêmica. Essas doenças afetam o sistema digestivo humano por meio de bactérias, vírus e parasitas. Os agentes das doenças são transmitidos em nosso corpo por meio de diversos tipos de alimentos, água e crus. Os patógenos mostram mudanças drásticas em pessoas imunossupressoras. Esta revisão fornece uma visão geral da vida microbiana prejudicial. O Paquistão é um país desenvolvido e, devido ao seu manejo alimentar inadequado, muitos problemas gastrointestinais são observados em muitos pacientes. As bactérias são os agentes mais comuns para espalhar diarreia, infecção de vilosidades, obstipação e doença disentérica em humanos e induzem a rejeição de transplantes de órgãos. Melhoria de seu estilo de vida, alimentos devidamente cozidos devem ser utilizados e para superar o aparecimento de doenças.

Prospect of microbial food borne diseases in Pakistan: a review / Perspectiva de doenças microbianas transmitidas por alimentos no Paquistão: uma revisão

Abstract Nowadays food borne illness is most common in people due to their epidemic nature. These diseases affect the human digestive system through bacteria, viruses and parasites. The agents of illness are transmitted in our body through various types of food items, water and uncooked. Pathogens show drastic changes in immunosuppressant people. This review gives general insights to harmful microbial life. Pakistan is a developed country and because of its improper food management, a lot of gastrointestinal problems are noted in many patients. Bacteria are most common agents to spread diarrhoea, villi infection, constipation and dysenteric disease in human and induce the rejection of organ transplant. Enhancement of their lifestyle, properly cooked food should be used and to overcome the outbreak of the diseases.

Resumo Hoje em dia, as doenças transmitidas por alimentos são mais comuns em pessoas devido à sua natureza epidêmica. Essas doenças afetam o sistema digestivo humano por meio de bactérias, vírus e parasitas. Os agentes das doenças são transmitidos em nosso corpo por meio de diversos tipos de alimentos, água e crus. Os patógenos mostram mudanças drásticas em pessoas imunossupressoras. Esta revisão fornece uma visão geral da vida microbiana prejudicial. O Paquistão é um país desenvolvido e, devido ao seu manejo alimentar inadequado, muitos problemas gastrointestinais são observados em muitos pacientes. As bactérias são os agentes mais comuns para espalhar diarreia, infecção de vilosidades, obstipação e doença disentérica em humanos e induzem a rejeição de transplantes de órgãos. Melhoria de seu estilo de vida, alimentos devidamente cozidos devem ser utilizados e para superar o aparecimento de doenças.

Attitude and perception towards vaccination against poliomyelitis in Peshawar, Pakistan

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE: This research aimed to quantitatively assess the general public's awareness, attitude and perception of polio and its vaccination in Peshawar KPK, Pakistan. METHODS: We conducted a survey-based study to understand the surge in polio cases from 2015 to 2019 in the Peshawar city of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), Pakistan. A pre-tested questionnaire-based study was conducted in 2019 to assess the attitude and general perception of residents of Peshawar KPK towards polio vaccination. RESULTS: Out of 241 country-wide polio cases, 63 (26.1%) polio cases were reported in Peshawar city from 2015-2019. The questionnaire revealed that individuals between 18-30 years of age had sufficient knowledge (65.1%) about polio. Male and female participants had equal awareness (~ 43%). Participants with higher education (45.9%), those with better financial status (49.5%), individuals with children < 5 years of age (46.4%), and those who had experience of a polio patient (63.1%) had better knowledge. Participants inhabiting the central city were better aware (50.5%) of polio than individuals living in the outskirts. CONCLUSION: The data indicated that poor knowledge and negative attitudes of people towards polio vaccination are the main causes of the polio eradication program's failure. Moreover, religious beliefs, unchecked migration between the Pak-Afghan border, and lack of knowledge about polio vaccination are identified as critical barriers to polio eradication.