A comprehensive review on the documented characteristics of four Reticulitermes termites (Rhinotermitidae, Blattodea) of China / Uma revisão abrangente sobre as características documentadas de quatro cupins Reticulitermes da China

Termites are known as social insects worldwide. Presently in China 473 species, 44 genera and 4 families of termites have been reported. Of them, 111 Reticulitermes species are widely spread in different zones of China. The dispersion flight season of these Chinese Reticulitermes species are usually started from February to June, but in some regions different species are distributed, sharing their boundaries and having overlapping flight seasons. These reasons become important sources of hybridization between two different heterospecific populations of termites. It was confirmed that the fertilized eggs and unfertilized eggs of some Reticulitermes termites have the capacity of cleavage. While the unfertilized eggs of R. aculabialis, R. chinensis and R. labralis cleaved normally and the only R. aculabialis unfertilized eggs develop in embryos. While, the R. flaviceps and R. chinensis were observed with their abnormal embryonic development, and not hatching of eggs parthenogenetically. They were reported more threatening to Chinese resources as they propagate with parthenogenesis, hybridization and sexual reproduction. Eggshell and macrophiles of eggs play important roles in species identification and control. Although, they are severe pests and cause a wide range of damages to wooden structures and products in homes, buildings, building materials, trees, crops, and forests in China's Mainland.

Os cupins são conhecidos como insetos sociais em todo o mundo. Atualmente na China foram relatadas 473 espécies, 44 gêneros e 4 famílias de cupins. Destas, 111 espécies de Reticulitermes estão amplamente distribuídas em diferentes zonas da China. A temporada de voo de dispersão dessas espécies chinesas de Reticulitermes geralmente começa de fevereiro a junho, mas em algumas regiões diferentes espécies são distribuídas, compartilhando seus limites e tendo temporadas de voo sobrepostas. Essas razões tornam-se importantes fontes de hibridização entre duas populações heteroespecíficas de cupins. Foi confirmado que os ovos fertilizados e não fertilizados de alguns cupins Reticulitermes possuem capacidade de clivagem. Já os ovos não fertilizados de R. aculabialis, R. chinensis e R. labralis clivaram normalmente, e os únicos ovos não fertilizados de R. aculabialis se desenvolvem em embriões. R. flaviceps e R. chinensis foram observados com desenvolvimento embrionário anormal, e não eclosão de ovos por partenogênese. Eles foram relatados como mais ameaçadores para os recursos chineses à medida que se propagam com partenogênese, hibridização e reprodução sexual. Casca de ovo e macrófilos de ovos desempenham papéis importantes na identificação e controle de espécies, embora sejam pragas graves e causem uma ampla gama de danos a estruturas e produtos de madeira em residências, edifícios, materiais de construção, árvores, plantações e florestas na China continental.

Population distribution and habitat analysis of Rufous treepie (Dendrocitta vagabunda) in Abbottabad, Pakistan / Distribuição da população e análise de habitat de Rufous treepie (Dendrocitta vagabunda) em Abbottabad, Paquistão

The Rufous treepie (Dendrocitta vagabunda) belongs to family corvidae, order Passeriformes which includes about 100 species. The current study was conducted to gather information about the Population distribution and habitat analysis of D. vagabunda at District Abbottabad, Pakistan. The data were collected on monthly basis both morning and evening times (2018-2019). The "Point count Method" was used for population estimation and "Quadrates Method" for habitat analysis of study area. The result shows an average month-wise population density of D. vagabunda was maximum at Jhangra 0.14±0.039/ha, whereas minimum at Havelian 0.11±0.022/ha. There was no significant difference (p>0.05) among monthly population densities of D. vagabunda, however, a significant difference (p<0.05) was found between morning and evening times population of the specie. The present study revealed that importance value index (IVI) of plants species at Sherwan, Bakot, Havelian, Langra and Jhangra were 59.6±12.6, 50.1±6.9, 53.4±6.3, 66.8±10 and 60.1±7.7. Likewise, the frequency of shrubs at Sherwan, Bakot, Havelian, Langra and Jhangra were 33.3±4.2, 45±9.4, 46.7±8.2, 55.6±22.2 and 37.5±8.5. Similarly, the frequency of herbs at Sherwan, Bakot, Havelian, Langra and Jhangra were 40.4±6.0, 37.5±5.6, 53.3±7.4, 48.5±5.2 and 46.9±7.4 respectively. Our results show the study area as suitable habitat for D. vagabunda.

A trepadeira Rufous (Dendrocitta vagabunda) pertence à família corvidae, ordem Passeriformes que inclui cerca de 100 espécies. O estudo atual foi realizado para reunir informações sobre a distribuição da população e análise do habitat de D. vagabunda no distrito de Abbottabad, Paquistão. Os dados foram coletados mensalmente pela manhã e à noite (2018-2019). O "método de contagem de pontos" foi usado para estimativa da população e o "método dos quadrados" para análise de habitat da área de estudo. O resultado mostra que uma densidade populacional média mensal de D. vagabunda foi máxima em Jhangra 0,14 ± 0,039 / ha, enquanto a mínima em Havelian 0,11 ± 0,022/ha. Não houve diferença significativa (p> 0,05) entre as densidades populacionais mensais de D. vagabunda, entretanto foi encontrada diferença significativa (p <0,05) entre os períodos matutino e noturno da população da espécie. O presente estudo revelou que o índice de valor de importância (IVI) das espécies de plantas em Sherwan, Bakot, Havelian, Langra e Jhangra foi de: 59,6 ± 12,6, 50,1 ± 6,9, 53,4 ± 6,3, 66,8 ± 10 e 60,1 ± 7,7. Da mesma forma, a frequência de arbustos em Sherwan, Bakot, Havelian, Langra e Jhangra foi de: 33,3 ± 4,2, 45 ± 9,4, 46,7 ± 8,2, 55,6 ± 22,2 e 37,5 ± 8,5. Da mesma forma, a frequência de ervas em Sherwan, Bakot, Havelian, Langra e Jhangra foi: 40,4 ± 6,0, 37,5 ± 5,6, 53,3 ± 7,4, 48,5 ± 5,2 e 46,9 ± 7,4, respectivamente. Nossos resultados mostram a área de estudo como habitat adequado para D. vagabunda.

Revision of some mensural measurements, food preference, and haematological parameters in breeding pairs of blue rock pigeon, Columba livia sampled from Punjab Pakistan / Revisão de algumas medidas mensurais, preferência alimentar e parâmetros hematológicos em pares de criação de pombo blue rock (Columba livia), amostragem de Punjab, Paquistão

The present study describes the haematological profile, feeding preference, and comparison of morphometric characters of blue rock pigeon (Columba livia) breeding pairs. For this purpose, 25 pairs (25 samples per sex) were sampled through Mist nets from district Okara and Bahawalnagar, Punjab, Pakistan. Birds were then anaesthetized with a combination of ketamine HCL (10 mg/kg) and diazepam (0.2 mg/kg) and subjected to morphometric measurements. 5µL blood also was taken from the jugular vein of each anaesthetized bird for haematological analysis. Few pairs were also dissected to remove gastrointestinal tracts (GITs) for food preferences. Results revealed that there are no significant differences in the haematological parameters and feeding preference of breeding pairs of Columba livia. The gut analysis further revealed, the major portion of gut contents consisted of pea and corn in most of the pairs. Regarding the mensural measurements, significant differences were recorded in the body weight, length of the longest primary feather, and chest circumference, whereas the rest of the studied parameters remain nonsignificant between sexes. So, it is concluded that apart from 3 morphometric parameters (body weight, length of longest primary feather and chest circumference), both sexes are alike in term of morphometry, haematology and food preference.

O presente estudo descreve o perfil hematológico, a preferência alimentar e a comparação de caracteres morfométricos de casais reprodutores de pombo-rocha (Columba livia). Para tanto, 25 pares (25 amostras por sexo) foram amostrados por meio de redes de névoa do distrito de Okara e Bahawalnagar, Punjab, Paquistão. As aves foram então anestesiadas com uma combinação de cetamina HCL (10 mg/kg) e diazepam (0,2 mg/kg) e submetidas a medidas morfométricas; 5 µL de sangue também foram retirados da veia jugular de cada ave anestesiada para análise hematológica. Poucos pares também foram dissecados para remover o trato gastrointestinal (GITs) para preferências alimentares. Os resultados revelaram que não há diferenças significativas nos parâmetros hematológicos e na preferência alimentar dos casais reprodutores de Columba livia. A análise intestinal revelou ainda que a maior parte do conteúdo intestinal consistia em ervilha e milho na maioria dos pares. Em relação às medidas mensurais, foram registradas diferenças significativas no peso corporal, comprimento da pena primária mais longa e circunferência torácica, enquanto os demais parâmetros estudados permanecem não significativos entre os sexos. Assim, conclui-se que além de três parâmetros morfométricos (peso corporal, comprimento da pena primária mais longa e circunferência torácica), ambos os sexos são semelhantes em termos de morfometria, hematologia e preferência alimentar.

Population distribution and habitat analysis of Rufous treepie (Dendrocitta vagabunda) in Abbottabad, Pakistan

Abstract The Rufous treepie (Dendrocitta vagabunda) belongs to family corvidae, order Passeriformes which includes about 100 species. The current study was conducted to gather information about the Population distribution and habitat analysis of D. vagabunda at District Abbottabad, Pakistan. The data were collected on monthly basis both morning and evening times (2018-2019). The Point count Method was used for population estimation and Quadrates Method for habitat analysis of study area. The result shows an average month-wise population density of D. vagabunda was maximum at Jhangra 0.14±0.039/ha, whereas minimum at Havelian 0.11±0.022/ha. There was no significant difference (p>0.05) among monthly population densities of D. vagabunda, however, a significant difference (p 0.05) was found between morning and evening times population of the specie. The present study revealed that importance value index (IVI) of plants species at Sherwan, Bakot, Havelian, Langra and Jhangra were 59.6±12.6, 50.1±6.9, 53.4±6.3, 66.8±10 and 60.1±7.7. Likewise, the frequency of shrubs at Sherwan, Bakot, Havelian, Langra and Jhangra were 33.3±4.2, 45±9.4, 46.7±8.2, 55.6±22.2 and 37.5±8.5. Similarly, the frequency of herbs at Sherwan, Bakot, Havelian, Langra and Jhangra were 40.4±6.0, 37.5±5.6, 53.3±7.4, 48.5±5.2 and 46.9±7.4 respectively. Our results show the study area as suitable habitat for D. vagabunda.

Resumo A trepadeira Rufous (Dendrocitta vagabunda) pertence à família corvidae, ordem Passeriformes que inclui cerca de 100 espécies. O estudo atual foi realizado para reunir informações sobre a distribuição da população e análise do habitat de D. vagabunda no distrito de Abbottabad, Paquistão. Os dados foram coletados mensalmente pela manhã e à noite (2018-2019). O método de contagem de pontos foi usado para estimativa da população e o método dos quadrados para análise de habitat da área de estudo. O resultado mostra que uma densidade populacional média mensal de D. vagabunda foi máxima em Jhangra 0,14 ± 0,039 / ha, enquanto a mínima em Havelian 0,11 ± 0,022/ha. Não houve diferença significativa (p> 0,05) entre as densidades populacionais mensais de D. vagabunda, entretanto foi encontrada diferença significativa (p 0,05) entre os períodos matutino e noturno da população da espécie. O presente estudo revelou que o índice de valor de importância (IVI) das espécies de plantas em Sherwan, Bakot, Havelian, Langra e Jhangra foi de: 59,6 ± 12,6, 50,1 ± 6,9, 53,4 ± 6,3, 66,8 ± 10 e 60,1 ± 7,7. Da mesma forma, a frequência de arbustos em Sherwan, Bakot, Havelian, Langra e Jhangra foi de: 33,3 ± 4,2, 45 ± 9,4, 46,7 ± 8,2, 55,6 ± 22,2 e 37,5 ± 8,5. Da mesma forma, a frequência de ervas em Sherwan, Bakot, Havelian, Langra e Jhangra foi: 40,4 ± 6,0, 37,5 ± 5,6, 53,3 ± 7,4, 48,5 ± 5,2 e 46,9 ± 7,4, respectivamente. Nossos resultados mostram a área de estudo como habitat adequado para D. vagabunda.

Revision of some mensural measurements, food preference, and haematological parameters in breeding pairs of blue rock pigeon, Columba livia sampled from punjab Pakistan

Abstract The present study describes the haematological profile, feeding preference, and comparison of morphometric characters of blue rock pigeon (Columba livia) breeding pairs. For this purpose, 25 pairs (25 samples per sex) were sampled through Mist nets from district Okara and Bahawalnagar, Punjab, Pakistan. Birds were then anaesthetized with a combination of ketamine HCL (10 mg/kg) and diazepam (0.2 mg/kg) and subjected to morphometric measurements. 5µL blood also was taken from the jugular vein of each anaesthetized bird for haematological analysis. Few pairs were also dissected to remove gastrointestinal tracts (GITs) for food preferences. Results revealed that there are no significant differences in the haematological parameters and feeding preference of breeding pairs of Columba livia. The gut analysis further revealed, the major portion of gut contents consisted of pea and corn in most of the pairs. Regarding the mensural measurements, significant differences were recorded in the body weight, length of the longest primary feather, and chest circumference, whereas the rest of the studied parameters remain nonsignificant between sexes. So, it is concluded that apart from 3 morphometric parameters (body weight, length of longest primary feather and chest circumference), both sexes are alike in term of morphometry, haematology and food preference.

Resumo O presente estudo descreve o perfil hematológico, a preferência alimentar e a comparação de caracteres morfométricos de casais reprodutores de pombo-rocha (Columba livia). Para tanto, 25 pares (25 amostras por sexo) foram amostrados por meio de redes de névoa do distrito de Okara e Bahawalnagar, Punjab, Paquistão. As aves foram então anestesiadas com uma combinação de cetamina HCL (10 mg/kg) e diazepam (0,2 mg/kg) e submetidas a medidas morfométricas; 5 µL de sangue também foram retirados da veia jugular de cada ave anestesiada para análise hematológica. Poucos pares também foram dissecados para remover o trato gastrointestinal (GITs) para preferências alimentares. Os resultados revelaram que não há diferenças significativas nos parâmetros hematológicos e na preferência alimentar dos casais reprodutores de Columba livia. A análise intestinal revelou ainda que a maior parte do conteúdo intestinal consistia em ervilha e milho na maioria dos pares. Em relação às medidas mensurais, foram registradas diferenças significativas no peso corporal, comprimento da pena primária mais longa e circunferência torácica, enquanto os demais parâmetros estudados permanecem não significativos entre os sexos. Assim, conclui-se que além de três parâmetros morfométricos (peso corporal, comprimento da pena primária mais longa e circunferência torácica), ambos os sexos são semelhantes em termos de morfometria, hematologia e preferência alimentar.

Revision of some mensural measurements, food preference, and haematological parameters in breeding pairs of blue rock pigeon, Columba livia sampled from punjab Pakistan / Revisão de algumas medidas mensurais, preferência alimentar e parâmetros hematológicos em pares de criação de pombo blue rock (Columba livia), amostragem de punjab, Paquistão

Abstract The present study describes the haematological profile, feeding preference, and comparison of morphometric characters of blue rock pigeon (Columba livia) breeding pairs. For this purpose, 25 pairs (25 samples per sex) were sampled through Mist nets from district Okara and Bahawalnagar, Punjab, Pakistan. Birds were then anaesthetized with a combination of ketamine HCL (10 mg/kg) and diazepam (0.2 mg/kg) and subjected to morphometric measurements. 5µL blood also was taken from the jugular vein of each anaesthetized bird for haematological analysis. Few pairs were also dissected to remove gastrointestinal tracts (GITs) for food preferences. Results revealed that there are no significant differences in the haematological parameters and feeding preference of breeding pairs of Columba livia. The gut analysis further revealed, the major portion of gut contents consisted of pea and corn in most of the pairs. Regarding the mensural measurements, significant differences were recorded in the body weight, length of the longest primary feather, and chest circumference, whereas the rest of the studied parameters remain nonsignificant between sexes. So, it is concluded that apart from 3 morphometric parameters (body weight, length of longest primary feather and chest circumference), both sexes are alike in term of morphometry, haematology and food preference.

Resumo O presente estudo descreve o perfil hematológico, a preferência alimentar e a comparação de caracteres morfométricos de casais reprodutores de pombo-rocha (Columba livia). Para tanto, 25 pares (25 amostras por sexo) foram amostrados por meio de redes de névoa do distrito de Okara e Bahawalnagar, Punjab, Paquistão. As aves foram então anestesiadas com uma combinação de cetamina HCL (10 mg/kg) e diazepam (0,2 mg/kg) e submetidas a medidas morfométricas; 5 µL de sangue também foram retirados da veia jugular de cada ave anestesiada para análise hematológica. Poucos pares também foram dissecados para remover o trato gastrointestinal (GITs) para preferências alimentares. Os resultados revelaram que não há diferenças significativas nos parâmetros hematológicos e na preferência alimentar dos casais reprodutores de Columba livia. A análise intestinal revelou ainda que a maior parte do conteúdo intestinal consistia em ervilha e milho na maioria dos pares. Em relação às medidas mensurais, foram registradas diferenças significativas no peso corporal, comprimento da pena primária mais longa e circunferência torácica, enquanto os demais parâmetros estudados permanecem não significativos entre os sexos. Assim, conclui-se que além de três parâmetros morfométricos (peso corporal, comprimento da pena primária mais longa e circunferência torácica), ambos os sexos são semelhantes em termos de morfometria, hematologia e preferência alimentar.

Population distribution and habitat analysis of Rufous treepie (Dendrocitta vagabunda) in Abbottabad, Pakistan / Distribuição da população e análise de habitat de Rufous treepie (Dendrocitta vagabunda) em Abbottabad, Paquistão

Abstract The Rufous treepie (Dendrocitta vagabunda) belongs to family corvidae, order Passeriformes which includes about 100 species. The current study was conducted to gather information about the Population distribution and habitat analysis of D. vagabunda at District Abbottabad, Pakistan. The data were collected on monthly basis both morning and evening times (2018-2019). "The ''Point count Method" was used for population estimation and ''Quadrates Method" for habitat analysis of study area. The result shows an average month-wise population density of D. vagabunda was maximum at Jhangra 0.14±0.039/ha, whereas minimum at Havelian 0.11±0.022/ha. There was no significant difference (p>0.05) among monthly population densities of D. vagabunda, however, a significant difference (p<0.05) was found between morning and evening times population of the specie. The present study revealed that importance value index (IVI) of plants species at Sherwan, Bakot, Havelian, Langra and Jhangra were 59.6±12.6, 50.1±6.9, 53.4±6.3, 66.8±10 and 60.1±7.7. Likewise, the frequency of shrubs at Sherwan, Bakot, Havelian, Langra and Jhangra were 33.3±4.2, 45±9.4, 46.7±8.2, 55.6±22.2 and 37.5±8.5. Similarly, the frequency of herbs at Sherwan, Bakot, Havelian, Langra and Jhangra were 40.4±6.0, 37.5±5.6, 53.3±7.4, 48.5±5.2 and 46.9±7.4 respectively. Our results show the study area as suitable habitat for D. vagabunda.

Resumo A trepadeira Rufous (Dendrocitta vagabunda) pertence à família corvidae, ordem Passeriformes que inclui cerca de 100 espécies. O estudo atual foi realizado para reunir informações sobre a distribuição da população e análise do habitat de D. vagabunda no distrito de Abbottabad, Paquistão. Os dados foram coletados mensalmente pela manhã e à noite (2018-2019). O "método de contagem de pontos" foi usado para estimativa da população e o "método dos quadrados" para análise de habitat da área de estudo. O resultado mostra que uma densidade populacional média mensal de D. vagabunda foi máxima em Jhangra 0,14 ± 0,039 / ha, enquanto a mínima em Havelian 0,11 ± 0,022/ha. Não houve diferença significativa (p> 0,05) entre as densidades populacionais mensais de D. vagabunda, entretanto foi encontrada diferença significativa (p <0,05) entre os períodos matutino e noturno da população da espécie. O presente estudo revelou que o índice de valor de importância (IVI) das espécies de plantas em Sherwan, Bakot, Havelian, Langra e Jhangra foi de: 59,6 ± 12,6, 50,1 ± 6,9, 53,4 ± 6,3, 66,8 ± 10 e 60,1 ± 7,7. Da mesma forma, a frequência de arbustos em Sherwan, Bakot, Havelian, Langra e Jhangra foi de: 33,3 ± 4,2, 45 ± 9,4, 46,7 ± 8,2, 55,6 ± 22,2 e 37,5 ± 8,5. Da mesma forma, a frequência de ervas em Sherwan, Bakot, Havelian, Langra e Jhangra foi: 40,4 ± 6,0, 37,5 ± 5,6, 53,3 ± 7,4, 48,5 ± 5,2 e 46,9 ± 7,4, respectivamente. Nossos resultados mostram a área de estudo como habitat adequado para D. vagabunda.

Comparative Analysis On The Efficacy Of Aerobic Capacity In Cardiac Rehabilitation Obese And Non-Obese Phase Ii Patient

Background: Aerobic Exercise is a host of health benefits to reduce vigor risk and maintain body weight. The purpose of the present investigation is to determine the influence of aerobic exercises on body weight and Metabolic Equivalent of Task (MET) activity among cardiac rehabilitation phase II patients. The objective of the study is to investigate the impact of obesity on the efficacy of aerobic capacity. Methods: Fifteen obese (ten males, five females) and fifteen non-obese (eleven males, four females) participants of phase II cardiac rehabilitation were selected from a tertiary care hospital by their Body Mass Index (BMI). They were divided into two groups by simple random technique. Aerobic exercises were given for 12 weeks for post-CABG cardiac rehabilitation phase II obese and non-obese (healthy and overweight) patients. BMI and the Metabolic equivalent of task activity of cardiac rehabilitation phase II patients are measured by enrolling a patient in 12 weeks of aerobic exercises program. Results: The aerobic exercise shows a positive result in both obese and non-obese patients. Aerobic exercises improved metabolic equivalent of task in both obese(4.6667+_0.65134 ;< 0.05) and non-obese patients (4.6923+_.48038 ;< 0.05) significantly.But aerobic exercises were more effective in enhancing the efficacy of aerobic capacity in obese patients. Conclusion: It is evident that aerobic exercises are more effective for obese patients to maintain or reduces weight. Higher MET activity was observed in obese patients.

Increased survival of patients with end‑stage hepatocellular carcinoma due to intake of ONCOXIN®, a dietary supplement.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Treatment and management of patients with end‑stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) represents a formidable challenge to contemporary branches of medical sciences. The study presented here was conducted to assess the utility of nutrient supplement, if any, for management of patients with end‑stage HCC. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 19 patients with end‑stage HCC (Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer [BCLC] staging D) were provided with ONCOXIN® for 3 months. Another 10 patients with end‑stage HCC (BCLC stage D) with similar clinical conditions received conservative management, but they did not give consent for taking ONCOXIN® (non‑ONCOXIN® group). All patients of both groups were followed on regular basis until their death. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: The results were expressed as mean and standard deviation. Comparison between groups was performed using Student’s t‑test or the Mann‑Whitney U test. For categorical data, Chi‑square or Fisher exact test was applied. RESULTS: All patients of the control group (non‑ONCOXIN® group) (10 of 10 patients) died within 2 months after study commencement. On the other hand, 10 of 19 patients receiving ONCOXIN® died within 2 months (less than 53% patients) after the start of taking ONCOXIN® (P < 0.05, compared with patients of non‑ONCOXIN® group). Five more patients died within 5 months after the start of intake of ONCOXIN®. Four patients receiving ONCOXIN® survived for more than 6 months after study commencement. CONCLUSIONS: Although this is a preliminary report, it inspires considerable optimism about safety and efficacy of a food supplement for management of patients with end‑stage HCC.

Investigation of Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Potential of Chloroform and Petroleum Ether Extracts of Selected Medicinal Plants of Bangladesh.

Aim: To investigate the antioxidant and antimicrobial potential of Chloroform and Pet ether extracts of Manilkara zapota (MZCE, MZPE), Polyalthia longifolia (PLCE, PLPE), Abroma augusta (AACE, AAPE) Ficus hispida (FHCE, FHPE), Vitex negundo (VNCE, VNPE) plants. Study Design: In vitro antioxidant and antimicrobial study. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Pharmacy, School of Science & Engineering, Southeast University, Banani, Dhaka between June 2011 and March 2012. Methodology: In vitro antioxidant activity was performed using DPPH radical scavenging, nitric oxide (NO) scavenging, reducing power, total antioxidant capacity, total phenol and total flavonoid content determination assays. The antimicrobial assay was performed by disc diffusion method using kanamycin and Nystatin as the standard. Results: The most prominent antioxidant activity was observed with PLPE in DPPH radical scavenging test (IC50 =191.308 ± 28.450 μg/ml) as opposed to that of standard ascorbic acid (IC50= 43.129 ± 1.181μg/ml). In total antioxidant capacity method, FHCE showed the highest activity (837.558 ± 110.835 mg ascorbic acid/g). The total phenolic and flavonoids content were determined by Folin–Ciocalteu Reagent and aluminum chloride colorimetric method respectively. The highest total phenols & total flavonoids content were found in VNPE (180.434 ± 142.19 mg Gallic acid/g & 1265.255 ± 165.593 mg quercetin/g, respectively). The ferric reducing capacity of the extracts was strong and dose dependent manner. PLPE displayed the highest antimicrobial actions against Bacillus megaterium (40 mm). Conclusion: Comparison of different plant extracts used in the present study in various tested models showed wide variations in phenolic content and varying degrees of radical scavenging & reducing capacity. The obtained results indicate that investigated plants could be potential sources of natural antioxidants & antimicrobial agents and can be used for infectious diseases.

Efficacy and Safety of Hydroquinone, Kojic Acid and Glycolic Acid Combination in the Treatment of Melasma.

Background & Methodology: It was an opened clinical trial. The study was carried out from March 2009 to February 2011, in the outpatient department of Dermatology and Venereology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) Dhaka, Bangladesh to evaluate the efficacy and side effects of the combination therapy of hydroquinone(HQ), kojic acid(KA) and glycolic acid(GA) for the treatment of melasma. Patients suffering from melasma were selected as study population. Within the period of data collection, thirty patients of melasma were assigned purposively. The efficacy was evaluated using Melasma Area and Severity Index (MASI) Score. The severity of melasma of each of the four regions (forehead, right malar region, left malar region and chin) are assessed based on three variables, percentage of the total area involved (A), darkness (D) and homogenicity (H). Results:The study showed that majority (30%) of the cases were between 20 to 25 years, majority (77%) of patients were female, (50%) patients were housewives, (50%) were in graduation level of education, (50%) of patients was found as upper class and negative family history was present in majority (80%) of cases. It was seen that highest (93%) number of patients were malar type and 7% were centro-facial type. The study showed the change in MASI Score after treatment with combination therapy (GA 2%, HQ 2% and KA 1%). After 12 weeks of treatment, the average MASI score was decreased by 24.20% indicating mild reduction of the severity of melasma and 18%, 18%, 9% and 55% patients developed side -effects like itching, burning sensation, scaling, and erythema respectively. Conclusion: Combination therapy (GA 2%, HQ 2% and KA 1%) has a few lightening effect on melasma, with no remarkable side effects. Further Further study should be conducted with large number of sample and longer follow up.

The Social and Clinical Characteristics of Patients on Antiretroviral Therapy who are 'Lost to Follow-up' in KwaZulu-Natal; South Africa: a Prospective Study

A significant proportion of those initiating antiretroviral treatment (ART) for HIV infection are lost to follow-up. Causes (including HIV symptoms; quality of life; depression; herbal treatment and alcohol use) for discontinuing ART follow-up in predominantly rural resource-limited settings are not well understood. This is a prospective study of the treatment-naive patients recruited from three (one urban; one-semi-urban and one rural) public hospitals in Uthukela health district in KwaZulu-Natal from October 2007 to February 2008. The aim of this study was to investigate predictors of loss to follow-up or all caused attrition from an ART programme within a cohort followed up for over 12 months. A total of 735 patients (217 men and 518 women) prior to initiating ART completed a baseline questionnaire and 6- and 12-months' follow-up. At 12-months follow-up 557 (75.9) individuals continued active ART; 177 (24.1) were all cause attrition; there were 82 deaths (13.8); 58 (7.9) transfers; 7 (1.0) refused participation; 8 (1.1) were not yet on ART and 22 (3.0) could not be traced. Death by 12-months of follow-up was associated with lower CD4 cell counts (risk ratio; RR=2.05; confidence intervals; CI=1.20 - 3.49) and higher depression levels (RR=1.05; CI=1.01 - 1.09) at baseline assessment. The high early mortality rates indicate that patients are enrolling into ART programmes with far too advanced immunodeficiency; median CD4 cell counts 119 (IQR=59 - 163). Causes of late access to the ART programme; such as delays in health care access (delayed health care seeking); health system delays; or inappropriate treatment criteria; need to be addressed. Differences in health status (lower CD4 cell counts and higher depression scores) should be taken into account when initiating patients on ART. Treating depression at ART initiation is recommended to improve treatment outcome

Prevalence and chemotherapy of babesiosis among Lohi sheep in the Livestock Experiment Station, Qadirabad, Pakistan, and environs

A total of 310 blood smears were collected from sheep of the Livestock Experiment Station, Qadirabad, Sahiwal district, Pakistan, and surrounding areas. The samples were examined microscopically and 30 (9.67 percent) were positive for babesiosis. The animals were divided into two groups (A and B) for chemotherapy. Group A sheep were treated with diminazene diaceturate while group B animals received imidocarb dipropionate. Drug efficacy was determined by negative blood smear examination. Diminazene diaceturate effectiveness against babesiosis was 80 percent while that of imidocarb dipropionate was 100 percent. Hematological studies revealed a significant decrease in hemoglobin concentrations and hematocrit values for Babesia-positive animals compared to healthy controls.(AU)

Anti H.pylori IgM in Symptomatic and Asymptomatic Population.

To evaluate the usefulness of specific IgM in the diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori infection, a cross sectional study was carried out in the Department of Microbiology, Mymensingh Medical College between July 2006 to June 2007. A total of 45 patients having upper gastrointestinal symptoms underwent endoscopy and were subsequently diagnosed as patients with gastritis, peptic ulcer (PU) and non-ulcer dyspepsia (NUD) and another 45 asymptomatic individuals aged 18-65 years, were included in the study. The serum samples of participants were tested for presence of anti-H pylori IgM by using ELISA method. The ELISA for anti H. pylori IgM provided sensitivity and specificity of 73.33%, 93.33% respectively.

Oral contraceptives in gall stone diseases.

A cross sectional study was under taken to evaluate the prevalence of gallstone in fertile women who are taking oral contraceptives. The aim of study was to determine any significant association between oral contractive use and Cholelithiasis. Total number of patient was 340. A standard written questioner, which is dully filled by concerned doctor and examination done. History of use of oral contraceptive pills, duration of use and time of taking oral contraceptives drugs whether before, in between pregnancy or after family completion is recorded. Total number of patient was 340 of them 186 patient taken contraceptives and 154 patients without contraceptives. Incidence of gallstone shows that with contraceptives the 21-30 years age group 72(39.13%) without contraceptives 22(14.28%), in 31-40 years age group with contraceptives 74 (40%), without contraceptives 28(18.8%) where as in 41-50 years age group with contraceptives 37(20.10%) and without contraceptives 44(28.57%), 51 years and above age group with contraceptives is 01(0.54%) and without contraceptives is 60(38.96%). Significantly higher incidence of gallstones found in younger patient taking oral contraceptives than without contraceptives, but in older age group incidence is more in-patients without contraceptives than with contraceptives. Oral contraceptives increase the incidence of gallstones disease in younger women especially in early part of their use of oral contraceptives.

A study on patients with cerebral palsy.

A prospective study was carried-out in the department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Institute of Postgraduate Medicine & Research (IPGMR) now Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) during a period of 9 months starting from 1st April to 31st December 1996 to find out the probable causes of Cerebral Palsy (CP), the types of CP and associated disabilities among these patients attending the department. A total of 5412 patient were treated, of them 93 (1.72%) were diagnosed as CP. Boys and girls were 62 (66.7%) and 30 (33.3%) respetively. Majority 44 (47.3%) were quadriplegic type followed by diplegic type 29 (31.1%), hemiplegic type 15 (16.1%) and athetoid type 1 (1%). Associated disabilities were mental retardation (45.1%), convulsive disorders (38.7%), speech disorders (49.4%), hearing impairment (13.9%), visual problem (8.6%) and squint (26.8%). Spastic quadriplegia was the mostsevere form with multiple disabilities found in our study.

Synthesis, biological evaluation and kinetic studies of glyceride prodrugs of diclofenac.

The prodrugs (glyceride derivatives) 3a and 3b of diclofenac were prepared by reacting 1, 2, 3-trihydroxy propane-1,3-dipalmitate/stearate with the acid chloride of diclofenac as potential prodrugs to reduce the gastrointestinal toxicity associated with them. These prodrugs were evaluated for their ulcerogenicity, anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity. It was found that the prodrugs were significantly less irritating to the gastric mucosa as indicated by severity index of 0.86, 0.78 compared to 1.6 of diclofenac. The prodrugs 3a and 3b showed better anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity than the parent drugs. The hydrolysis of prodrugs 3a and 3b were studied at pH 3, 4, 5 and 7.4. The HPLC analysis showed that the prodrugs were resistant to hydrolysis at pH 3, 4 and 5 indicating that they did not hydrolyze in acidic environment, whereas at pH 7.4 the prodrugs readily released the parent drug in significant quantities. The plasma levels of diclofenac were also analyzed by HPLC in rats after single oral dose of the prodrugs. The results indicated that the parent drugs were readily released. The concentration of diclofenac during the study was found higher in animals treated with prodrugs 3a and 3b compared with animals treated with diclofenac. The concentration of diclofenac was found to be 38.59, 33.6 and 30.36 microg/ml in animals treated with prodrugs 3a, 3b and diclofenac respectively. In conclusion, all these studies indicated that the glyceride prodrugs of diclofenac might be considered as potential biolabile prodrugs of diclofenac.

Effect of Ajmaloon on the baroreceptor-heart rate reflex in anaesthetized rabbits and monkeys.

The effects of a herbal drug, Ajmaloon (Hamdard, India), on the arterial blood pressure, heart rate (HR) and baroreceptor-heart rate reflex were studied in anesthetized rabbits and monkeys. Intravenously administered Ajmaloon produced a dose-dependent hypotensive response in both the species without any significant effect on the heart rate. Only in high doses (200 mg/kg or more). Ajmaloon produced a bradycardia response in rabbits. Even the highest dose (300 mg/kg) of Ajmaloon used in the present investigation did not cause arrhythmia or any other conduction disorder or respiratory distress. Baroreflex SAP-HR curve was shifted to the left of the control following treatment with 100 mg/kg intravenous Ajmaloon in both the species. Loss of tachycardia response to fall in arterial pressure in Ajmaloon treated animals indicated the drug induced suppression of normally existing sympathetic excitatory influence in response to hypotension. Baroreflex regulatory HR response to hypertension remains intact after intravenous administration of 100 mg/kg Ajmaloon, a dose much higher than the prescribed highest oral dose for humans. Intact baroreflex regulation of arterial blood pressure in response to hypertension in Ajmaloon treated mammals suggests that in patients besides lowering the blood pressure. Ajmaloon might not interfere with the normal blood pressure regulatory mechanism through arterial baroreceptors during hypertension.

Pharmacological studies on Lepidium sativum, linn.

Pharmacological studies on Lepidium sativum suggested in it the presence of a cardioactive substance, which is unstable in solution, shows tachyphylaxis and probably exerts its actions through adrenergic mechanisms.