Morbidity profiling of patients treated at Ayothidoss Pandithar Hospital of the National Institute of Siddha from 2004 to 2023 in Tamil Nadu, India

Background: Understanding the patient flow for health-seeking patterns and utilization of AYUSH care in India has been considered essential for a greater emphasis on mainstreaming and blending into the existing healthcare systems. This study examines the morbidity profiling of patients reporting to Ayothidoss Pandithar Hospital (APH) of the National Institute of Siddha (NIS), Chennai. Methods: The study included new and old/revisit patients who attended the APH, Outpatient Department (OPD), special OPD, and Inpatient Department (IPD) from October 2004 to December 2023. Results: Through OPD and IPD, APH has treated 98,94,373 cases and 7,61,754 cases, respectively. The average number of cases treated per day at OPD was 1484, and 115 in IPD. Men were higher in OPD and IPD. The more common diseases treated during 2012-2023 at OPD were Madhumegam (diabetes mellitus) 13% and Azhal keelvayu (osteoarthritis) 12% whereas, in IPD, it was Thandagavatham (lumbar spondylosis) 9.5% and Pakkavatham (hemiplegia) 9.4%. At APH, 9 X-ray investigations, 44 Varmam therapies, 37 Thokkanam therapies, 497 pathological, 433 biochemical investigations, and 38 microbiological tests were performed each day. Conclusions: This study reveals the scope of the Siddha system of Medicine in managing Musculoskeletal disorders. The patient data generated at APH would enhance the National Health Policy (NHP) objective of strengthening and prioritizing health services' importance, promoting good health, and creating guidelines for high-quality care.

Models of integrative oncology care in a resource-poor setting: an overview

The interest in integrative oncology is growing worldwide. Patients with cancer are seeking traditional complementary and integrative medicine to mitigate the symptoms and enhance their well-being. Though there is supporting evidence for inter-disciplinary team care in oncology, the integrative oncology models in a resource-poor setting have not been explored. The current manuscript provides an overview of the integrative oncology model focusing on how complementary therapies such as psychosocial services, dietetics, yoga, and wellness programs could be integrated in clinical oncology care in a cost-effective way in a resource poor settings. Manuscript also discusses examples where such a model of care has currently been implemented for patients as well as caregivers.

The one health approach: combating the persistent Visceral Leishmaniasis (Kala-azar) outbreaks in Isiolo County, Kenya

Background: Visceral leishmaniasis has remained a public health problem in Kenya despite Ministry of Health’s numerous efforts. This is associated with absence of a multidisciplinary response to outbreaks. We intended to analyze community’s prioritization of causes of Visceral leishmaniasis as well as community awareness on the disease prevention and control. Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study design conducted between September 2023 to December 2023. 433 households’ heads, 23 community leaders and health workers were study informants. Results: Study findings showed clear proximity of human settlements and socioeconomic activities to the vector sandfly breeding sites. Environmental factors augmented by effects of climate change including flooding and high temperatures have sustained transmission including emergence of the disease in new foci. Low socio-economic status, environmental factors and climate change effects showed highly significant correlations with the disease and interplay with one another. Study results show lack of strategies and policies that promote effective prevention and control of Kala-azar. Stakeholders’ analysis revealed limited community awareness regarding roles played by different individuals in Kala-azar prevention, control, and elimination. Conclusions: There is a major gap in cooperation of partners in human, animal, and environmental health for achievements in public health strategies, therefore One Health approach should be adopted for integrated prevention, control, and elimination. The approach will sustainably improve and promote health while addressing the entire spectrum of disease control, including detection, preparedness, response, and management in addition to disease prevention averting this terrible disease from resurfacing in the future.

Behavioural risk-factors of hypertension and its knowledge in rural South India: a cross-sectional study

Background: India, a lower middle-income country with a population of more than 1 billion is undergoing a rapid epidemiological transition characterized by an increased prevalence of non-communicable diseases. It is estimated to account for 10.8% of all deaths and 4.6% of all disability-adjusted life years in India. Hence this study is carried out to assess the socio-demographic profile and risk factors associated with hypertension (HTN) in rural India. and to determine the association between risk factors and hypertensive status. Methods: This is a community-based cross-sectional study in Shivamogga taluk of Karnataka from May-September 2023. Based on 2011 census, Shivamogga taluk has 117601 households bearing population of 507324 and sex-ratio 987 per 1000 males, 36.4% of population lives in urban area and 63.6% in rural area. Ayanur and Matthur are rural field practice area of SIMS having population of 3605 and 3144 respectively. The multi-stage random sampling method is used to study 430 study participants. Results: The study comprised of 430 participants, 162 (37.67%) were among the age group of 50-65 years, 223 (51.86%) were hypertensives and 306 (71.16%) stated that HTN adversely effects health of an individual. 381 (88.6%) opined that reducing salt intake in the diet can significantly reduce the development of HTN in an individual. Conclusions: HTN is a behavioural disease that is increasing day by day and there is no much difference between people living in urban/rural areas. Hence, this needs to be addressed at a primitive level to decrease the prevalence of NCD’s by promoting health, adopting healthy lifestyles and adherence towards medications.

Factors associated with stunting incidence in toddlers in Cibungbulang sub-district, Bogor

Background: Stunting is a developmental disorder characterized by L/A or H/A index z-score ?2 SD and contribute to various negative impacts until adulthood. The prevalence of stunting among toddlers in Bogor Regency reached 24.9 percent according to SSGI. This study aimed to determine relationships between family income, being breastfed and drinking other milks, eating habits, handwashing and oral hygiene habits with stunting incidence among toddlers in Cibungbulang sub-district. Methods: The study used cross-sectional design with 307 samples selected through systematic randomization. Almost all data, except stunting, were collected through interview with respondents, while stunting was identified through height measurement. Results: Most toddlers had family income under the minimum wage (81.4%), did not drink breast milk anymore (52,4%), consumed other milks (60.6%), ate independently (69.4%), washed their hands after using toilets (91.2%), and cleaned their mouths at least once a day (85%). A total of 35% toddlers were stunted. There were significant relationships between family income (p=0.001), drinking breast milk (p=0.000) and other milks (p=0.001), eating habits (p=0.001), handwashing (p=0.035) and oral hygiene habits (p=0.039) with stunting incidence in toddlers (p<0.05). Conclusions: Family income, consumption of breast milk and other milks, eating habits, and handwashing and oral hygiene habits were associated with stunting in toddlers.

Motivation on the uptake of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines in Calabarzon region, Philippines

Background: COVID-19 vaccination is essential for public health, aiming to limit virus transmission and severity of illness. The motivation for individuals to get vaccinated can vary and is influenced by a combination of factors. This study aimed to identify the factors that motivated Filipino residents in Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon Province, or the Calabarzon region to get vaccinated with the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional design was utilized in this study. Researcher-made survey questionnaires were distributed online through Google forms. Study participants were either fully or partially vaccinated with SARS-CoV-2 vaccines or have received their booster shots. Descriptive statistics were used to examine the extrinsic and intrinsic factors toward uptake of SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. The participants’ overall knowledge and attitude were scored using Bloom’s cut-off point. Results: A total of 398 participants were approached from June to July 2022. Participants were 55.3% female, and the majority were 29 years and below (77.1%). Family/friends, lifestyle, government, community, and peers/associates were the extrinsic factors that motivated them to get vaccinated. As for the intrinsic factors, 86.4% showed adequate knowledge and 63.6% had positive attitude towards the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. Conclusions: To have a successful vaccination campaign, both extrinsic and intrinsic factors must be considered when exploring the motivation of local residents to get vaccinated for COVID-19. Family/friends were the primary extrinsic factor, followed by lifestyle, government, community, and peers/associates. Most participants showed adequate knowledge and a positive attitude toward the SARS-CoV-2 vaccines. Focusing on these factors may address vaccine hesitancy.

Orthodontic bracket bonding techniques and adhesion failures

The introduction of glass ionomer cements in orthodontics aimed to address the drawbacks of the acid-etch technique using composite resins, including demineralization, enamel damage, and potential allergic reactions. These cements release fluoride over time, potentially protecting against demineralization. Glass ionomer cements, despite their benefits in reducing adhesive residue and protecting against demineralization, showed higher bond failure rates compared to composite resins. This is attributed to their sensitivity to application techniques and moisture, along with a delayed setting time. In contrast, light-cured composite resins, preferred over chemically-cured resins in recent years, offer advantages such as ease of use, consistent handling, and controlled setting. However, early trials indicated higher bond failure rates for light-cured resins, a finding not consistently replicated in later studies. While glass ionomer cements offer certain advantages, their higher bond failure rate poses a significant limitation. Light-cured composite resins, with their user-friendly characteristics, have become the preferred choice in orthodontic bonding despite initial concerns about higher bond failure rates.

Awareness of hemiplegic shoulder in hospital nurses: a cross-sectional study

Background: The hemiplegic shoulder, characterized by pain, weakness, and limited range of motion, is a common complication affecting individuals who have experienced hemiplegia due to stroke or other neurological conditions. It significantly impacts the quality of life of patients and hampers their rehabilitation progress. In the context of healthcare, nurses play a pivotal role in the holistic care of patients with hemiplegia. Their knowledge, assessment skills, and interventions contribute to the prevention and management of hemiplegic shoulder, thereby aiding in the overall recovery of patients, awareness of this condition is crucial because early identification and timely interventions can prevent its progression and associated complications. Furthermore, comprehensive knowledge of hemiplegic shoulder management can contribute to patient comfort, better rehabilitation outcomes, and improved patient satisfaction. Methods: A self-made questionnaire was validated and circulated via Google Forms to hospital nurses of all age groups. 60 participants who fit the inclusion criteria and gave consent to participate in the study were selected. Their responses were recorded, data analysis was done and results were obtained. Results: 60 responses were recorded via Google Forms. The average age of the population was 32 years. Out of the entire population, only 30.77% of the entire population were aware of the hemiplegic shoulder condition. Conclusions: According to this study there is a lack of awareness about the hemiplegic shoulder in the population of nurses in India, they need to be made more aware of the safe practices of handling stroke patients.

Successful multiple-dose methotrexate therapy for unruptured repeat ectopic pregnancy with high ?-human chorionic gonadotropin value: a case report

Successfully managing an unruptured ectopic pregnancy necessitates prioritizing the preservation of fertility as the primary objective. Medical management is traditionally considered to be more successful at lower �- human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) values. However, there is emerging evidence that successful treatment can be achieved with modification of dosage regimen in the presence of high ?-HCG value. We reported the successful management of a case of unruptured repeat ectopic pregnancy in a patient with high ?-HCG. Mrs PA is a 25-year-old G4P0+3 with previous right salpingectomy due to ruptured ectopic gestation who presented with an ultrasound diagnosis of unruptured left tubal ectopic gestation at a gestational age of 6 weeks. The pre-treatment quantitative ?-HCG level was 7066 IU/l. She had multiple dose methotrexate therapy which was well tolerated with normalization of ?-HCG levels within 44 days. Hysterosalpingography done six (6) months post-treatment demonstrated patent left fallopian tube. She subsequently had spontaneous conception of an intrauterine pregnancy 16-months post-treatment. The pregnancy was carried to term and culminated in successful delivery at term. Multiple-dose chemotherapy was successful in this patient with high ?-HCG level with no reported adverse effect.

Factors associated with non-treatment of hypertension and gender differences at baseline in the ELSA-Brasil cohort

The treatment of arterial hypertension (AH) contributes to the reduction of morbidity and mortality. Gender differences are likely to play a role, as non-treatment is associated with clinical and sociodemographic aspects. The aim of this study was to investigate the factors associated with non-treatment of AH and gender differences in hypertensive individuals from the ELSA-Brasil cohort. The study was conducted with 5,743 baseline hypertensive cohort participants. AH was considered if there was a previous diagnosis or if systolic blood pressure (SBP) was ≥140 and/or diastolic BP (DBP) was ≥90 mmHg. Sociodemographic and anthropometric data, lifestyle, comorbidities, and use of antihypertensive medications were evaluated through interviews and in-person measurements. Treatment with renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitors (RAASi) or other antihypertensive medications and non-treatment were evaluated with multivariate logistic regression. Non-treatment was observed in 32.8% of hypertensive individuals. Of the 67.7% treated individuals, 41.1% received RAASi. Non-treatment was associated with alcohol consumption in women (OR=1.41; 95%CI: 1.15-1.73; P=0.001), lowest schooling level in men (OR=1.70; 95%CI: 1.32-2.19; P<0.001), and younger age groups in men and women (strongest association in males aged 35-44 years: OR=4.58, 95%CI: 3.17-6.6, P<0.001). Among those using RAASi, a higher proportion of white, older individuals, and with more comorbidities was observed. The high percentage of non-treatment, even in this civil servant population, indicated the need to improve the treatment cascade for AH. Public health policies should consider giving special attention to gender roles in groups at higher risk of non-treatment to reduce inequities related to AH in Brazil.

Pediatric dental radiography: safety, techniques and diagnostic applications

Children, with their higher cellular metabolism, longer lifespans, and smaller bodies, require specific adjustments in X-ray settings. The increased mitotic cell activity in children, coupled with their longer life expectancy, raises concerns about the potential long-term effects of radiation exposure, such as tumor development or cancer-related deaths. Therefore, radiographs should be prescribed based on individual patient needs, balancing the necessity for diagnostic clarity with the risks of radiation. Radiographs play a vital role in the diagnosis of traumatic dental injuries, as they can reveal injuries that may not be apparent through clinical examination alone. In pediatric dentistry, radiography is essential for diagnosing dental caries, monitoring growth, and identifying developmental or pathological conditions. They are invaluable in treatment planning and assessing dentofacial structures. However, the decision to use radiography should follow a comprehensive assessment, considering each child's medical, dental, as well as the clinical background, as well as environmental factors. Special techniques and considerations are necessary for infants, young children, individuals with disabilities, as well as those with gag reflexes.

Components and outcome of triple antibiotic paste and its application in endodontic infections

In the field of endodontic therapies, the use of antibiotics, especially in the form of root canal medications, plays a pivotal role in ensuring successful treatment outcomes. This review examines the role of triple antibiotic paste (TAP) in such therapies, delving into its composition, application, and effects on endodontic infections. TAP, a combination of metronidazole, ciprofloxacin, and minocycline, targets the diverse microbial flora in odontogenic infections. Its local application within the root canal space proves more effective than systemic administration, significantly reducing microbial count and aiding in tissue regeneration and disinfection. However, the use of TAP is not without challenges, as it can cause tooth discoloration, particularly due to minocycline, and raise concerns about antibiotic resistance and long-term biocompatibility. This study, conducted through a comprehensive literature search, evaluates the efficacy of TAP, its impact on tooth structure, and its role in maintaining the vitality of diseased pulp. The findings highlight TAP’s significant role in endodontic treatments, emphasizing its benefits in achieving therapeutic goals while acknowledging the need for careful consideration of its drawbacks.

Management of diabetic ketoacidosis in internal medicine: insulin protocols, electrolyte balance, and clinical outcomes

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a critical complication of diabetes mellitus (DM), characterized by hyper-glycemia, acidosis, and ketosis. It poses a substantial risk of morbidity and mortality, especially in type 1 DM patients. DKA can be triggered by various factors, including insulin deficiency, infections, alcohol abuse, and other medical conditions. Hospital admissions for DKA are increasing, with mortality rates of up to 5-9%, often linked to severe underlying illnesses and complications such as myocardial infarction and stroke. Effective DKA management involves rehydration, correction of electrolyte imbalances, insulin administration, and addressing precipitating factors. Fluid resuscitation with isotonic saline is vital to restore hydration, and continuous intravenous insulin infusion is the preferred method to control blood glucose and suppress ketone production. Electrolyte imbalances, particularly potassium, sodium, phosphate, and magnesium, require careful monitoring and correction. Clinical outcomes in DKA management include resolving acidosis, normalizing blood glucose, and restoring electrolyte balance, all while achieving and maintaining clinical stability. Complications like cerebral edema and acute respiratory distress syndrome can significantly impact the prognosis. Long-term considerations encompass diabetes management, patient education, and follow-up care.

Perceptions on hypertension, barriers and facilitators on non-communicable disease prevention in urban Shivamogga: a qualitative study

Background: The world’s health care needs are changing drastically due to significant population and demographic impact. The socioeconomic transition in India have influenced the health risk behaviour leading to the increasing burden of obesity, hypertension, diabetes and dyslipidemia. Primary care facilities play a vital role in preventing and controlling NCDs. Objectives were to assess the perceptions of healthy lifestyle behaviours among urban migrants of south India. To qualitatively assess the facilitators and barriers of NCD prevention. Methods: Study was conducted in urban Shivamogga from May to August 2023 using non-purposive sampling technique. It was a qualitative study design-focus group discussion (FGD). It involves two FGD of 8 members each. One FGD is from urban school and other FGD is from nationalized bank. This study aimed at providing grounded approach to develop an understanding about the perceptions of hypertension (HTN) and facilitators/barriers in obtaining treatment of the same. The data was subjected to brief reading and analysed by segregating the text under different themes. Responses were recorded by audio-taping and translated into codes. The results were obtained after drawing inferences. Results: Mean age of study participants was 38.8±3.8 years (FGD1) and 36.8±2.6 years (FGD2). They identified stress, nuclear family, physical inactivity, dietary habits and urban living as the causes of hypertension. They perceived that illiteracy, ignorance, work-pressure, time-constraints, home-remedies could be the barriers for seeking treatment of hypertension. Conclusions: Hypertension has been perceived as a common and serious problem in our community. There was a felt need about awareness campaign and screening of HTN that may help in implementation of prevention and control activities.

Level of utilization of eLearning among students at selected KMTC campuses

Background: Technology continues to impact various spheres of life, including learning. Over the years, eLearning has experienced a steady rise in popularity. At Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC), the influence of technology on education became more noticeable due in part to a policy directive. This directive, prompted partly by the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasized adopting online teaching to address the loss of instructional hours. This study addressed a specific gap in KMTC's internal quality assurance efforts by accumulating evidence related to the extent of E-learning and user satisfaction. Methods: The study employed a descriptive cross-sectional design, utilizing qualitative and quantitative techniques. It involved KMTC campuses conveniently selected from the Coast and Nairobi regions, with 1139 students selected through simple random, stratified, and proportionate sampling methods. A mixed questionnaire (both open and closed-ended questions) was used to collect data. Specifically, the study aimed to assess the level of eLearning utilization among students in selected KMTC campuses and identify the determinants of this utilization. Results: Most of the respondents (89.2%) participated in online classes; 11.8% of those who did not participate cited reasons such as lack of gadgets, bundles, and poor internet connectivity, among others. Despite widespread e-learning utilization, 76.8% of learners strongly preferred face-to-face classes. Conclusions: Key factors linked to e-learning utilization included effective instructional strategies, quality technical support, and well-conducted online classes. The choice of communication channels, particularly platforms like WhatsApp, was strongly linked to e-learning utilization. Therefore, this study recommends that KMTC should acknowledge the strong preference for face-to-face classes and offer hybrid learning options. Further, the KMTC should address accessibility challenges and competing responsibilities at home by supporting data connectivity, ensuring user-friendly online platforms, and providing flexible scheduling options for diverse learner needs.

Apport de L'IRM 1.5t dans la pathologie des articulations temporomandibulaires / Contribution of 1.5t MRI in temporomandibular joint disorders

Introduction : l'IRM des articulation temporo-madibulaires (ATM) permettrait une précision diagnostique, notamment des lésions discales. Objectif : montrer l'apport de l'IRM 1.5T dans l'exploration de l'ATM. Matériel et méthode : étude rétrospective descriptive et analytique, réalisée au service de radiologie d'une polyclinique privée, du 1er janvier 2019 au 31 août 2021. Elle a inclus tous les patients ayant eu une IRM des ATM, quels que soient l'âge et le sexe. Le protocole a été réalisé selon les standards internationaux. Les facteurs associés aux résultats de l'IRM ont été étudiés avec les tests de Khi deux d'indépendance. Résultats : 38 ATM de 19 patients ont été examinées. On notait une prédominance féminine (sex ratio : 0,9). L'âge moyen était de 47,89 ± 16,94 ans. Le protocole Short TI Inversion Recovery (STIR) coronale, Proton Density Fat Saturation (PDFS) sagittal et T1 sagittal en bouche fermée et en bouche ouverte, sans injection a été appliqué chez 18 patients (94,70%). Les principaux motifs de consultation étaient la douleur (47,40%) et le dysfonctionnement temporo-mandibulaire (DTM) (42,10%). L'IRM était pathologique chez 12 patients (63,16%) et concernait 14 ATM avec une atteinte à gauche (42,85%), à droite (28,6%) et bilatérale (14,28%). Le disque était concerné dans 93% des cas avec luxation discale antérieure irréductible (21,43%) et la dégénérescence discale (28,57%). L'arthrose de l'ATM représentait 50%. Il n'existait aucune association entre les anomalies retrouvées à l'IRM et le sexe des patients (p = 0,21) ni entre la douleur et le sexe des patients (p= 0,46). Conclusion : L'IRM 1.5T des ATM avec une antenne dédiée a permis le diagnostic précis des anomalies notamment les lésions discales, permettant ainsi une prise en charge adéquate.

Introduction: MRI of the temporomandibular joints (TMJ) would provide diagnostic accuracy, particularly for disc lesions. Objective: to show the contribution of 1.5T MRI in the exploration of the TMJ. Material and method: retrospective descriptive and analytical study, carried out in the radiology department of a private polyclinic, from January 1, 2019, to August 31, 2021. It included all patients who had MRI of the TMJs, regardless of age and sex. The protocol followed international standards. Factors associated with MRI findings were studied with Chisquare tests of independence. Results: 38 TMJs from 19 patients were examined. Females predominated (sex ratio: 0.9). Mean age was 47.89 ± 16.94 years. Short TI Inversion Recovery (STIR) coronal, Proton Density Fat Saturation (PDFS) sagittal and T1 sagittal closedmouth and open-mouth, injection-free protocol was applied in 18 patients (94.70%). The main reasons for consultation were pain (47.40%) and temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD) (42.10%). MRI was pathological in 12 patients (63.16%) and involved 14 TMJs, with involvement on the left (42.85%), right (28.6%) and bilateral (14.28%). The disc was involved in 93% of cases, with irreducible anterior disc dislocation (21.43%) and disc degeneration (28.57%). Osteoarthritis of the TMJ accounted for 50%. There was no association between MRI abnormalitiesand patient gender (p=0.21), nor between pain and patient gender (p=0.46). Conclusion: 1.5T MRI of the TMJ with a dedicated antenna enabled precise diagnosis of abnormalities, in particular disclesions, thus enabling appropriate management.

Acute and subchronic effects of petroleum on the freshwater fish Hoplias aff. malabaricus / Efeitos agudo e subcrônico do petróleo no peixe de água doce Hoplias aff. malabaricus

Abstract Petroleum water soluble fraction (WSF) impairs organisms, but damages may vary among cell and tissue levels. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the acute (24 h, 48 h, 72 h) and subchronic effects (36 days) of WSF (0%, 25% and 100%) in juveniles of the Neotropical top predator fish Hoplias aff. malabaricus. The effects of WSF were evaluated at a molecular level using the comet assay and micronucleus test for genome damage; and at a morphological level through histological identification of liver pathologic lesions. In both acute and subchronic exposure we found low levels of DNA damage (< 10% of comet tail) and non-significant frequency of micronucleus in WSF exposed fish. The most significant liver lesions in WSF exposed fish were fatty vacuolization, hypertrophy and focal necrosis. Since these tissue injuries were progressive and persistent, their irreversibility may negatively affect fish recruitment, even in a such resistant top predator.

Resumo A fração solúvel de petróleo (WSF) prejudica os organismos, porém os danos podem variar entre os níveis celular e tecidual. O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar o efeito agudo (24 h, 48 h e 72 h) e subcrônico (36 dias) da WSF (0%, 25% e 100%) em juvenis do peixe neotropical predador topo Hoplias aff. malabaricus. Os efeitos da WSF foram avaliados no nível molecular utilizando o ensaio do cometa e o teste do micronúcleo para o dano genômico e no nível morfológico através da identificação histológica de lesões patológicas no fígado. Em ambas exposições (aguda e subcrônica) encontramos baixos níveis de dano no DNA (< 10% de DNA na cauda do cometa) e frequência de micronúcleos não significativa em peixes expostos a WSF. As lesões mais significativas no fígado dos peixes expostos a WSF foram a vacuolização lipídica, hipertrofia e focos de necroses. Como estas lesões foram progressivas e persistentes, sua irreversibilidade pode afetar negativamente o recrutamento dos peixes, mesmo sendo um predador topo resistente.

Increased yield performance of mutation induced Soybean genotypes at varied agro-ecological conditions / Aumento no desempenho de rendimento de genótipos de soja induzidos por mutação em condições agroecológicas variadas

Abstract In soybean breeding program, continuous selection pressure on traits response to yield created a genetic bottleneck for improvements of soybean through hybridization breeding technique. Therefore an initiative was taken to developed high yielding soybean variety applying mutation breeding techniques at Plant Breeding Division, Bangladesh Institute of Nuclear Agriculture (BINA), Bangladesh. Locally available popular cultivar BARI Soybean-5 was used as a parent material and subjected to five different doses of Gamma ray using Co60. In respect to seed yield and yield attributing characters, twelve true breed mutants were selected from M4 generation. High values of heritability and genetic advance with high genotypic coefficient of variance (GCV) for plant height, branch number and pod number were considered as favorable attributes for soybean improvement that ensure expected yield. The mutant SBM-18 obtained from 250Gy provided stable yield performance at diversified environments. It provided maximum seed yield of 3056 kg ha-1 with highest number of pods plant-1 (56). The National Seed Board of Bangladesh (NSB) eventually approved SBM-18 and registered it as a new soybean variety named 'Binasoybean-5' for large-scale planting because of its superior stability in various agro-ecological zones and consistent yield performance.

Resumo No programa de melhoramento da soja, a pressão pela seleção contínua para a resposta das características de rendimento criou um gargalo genético para melhorias da soja por meio da técnica de melhoramento por hibridação. Portanto, foi desenvolvida uma variedade de soja de alto rendimento, aplicando técnicas de reprodução por mutação, na Divisão de Melhoramento de Plantas, no Instituto de Agricultura Nuclear de Bangladesh (BINA), em Bangladesh. A cultivar popular BARI Soybean-5, disponível localmente, foi usada como material original e submetida a cinco doses diferentes de raios gama usando Co60. Em relação ao rendimento de sementes e às características de atribuição de rendimento, 12 mutantes genuínos foram selecionados a partir da geração M4. Altos valores de herdabilidade e avanço genético com alto coeficiente de variância genotípico (GCV) para altura da planta, número de ramos e número de vagens foram considerados atributos favoráveis ​​ao melhoramento da soja, garantindo, assim, a produtividade esperada. O mutante SBM-18, obtido a partir de 250Gy, proporcionou desempenho de rendimento estável em ambientes diversificados e produtividade máxima de sementes de 3.056 kg ha-1 com o maior número de vagens planta-1 (56). O Conselho Nacional de Sementes de Bangladesh (NSB) finalmente aprovou o SBM-18 e o registrou como uma nova variedade de soja, chamada 'Binasoybean-5', para plantio em larga escala por causa de sua estabilidade superior em várias zonas agroecológicas e desempenho de rendimento consistente.

Reduced genetic diversity and the success of the invasive peacock bass (Cichliformes: Cichlidae) / Diversidade genética reduzida e o sucesso da espécie invasora tucunaré (Cichliformes: Cichlidae)

Abstract Several species of Cichla successfully colonized lakes and reservoirs of Brazil, since the 1960's, causing serious damage to local wildlife. In this study, 135 peacock bass were collected in a reservoir complex in order to identify if they represented a single dominant species or multiple ones, as several Cichla species have been reported in the basin. Specimens were identified by color pattern, morphometric and meristic data, and using mitochondrial markers COI, 16S rDNA and Control Region (CR). Overlapping morphological data and similar coloration patterns prevented their identification using the taxonomic keys to species identification available in the literature. However, Bayesian and maximum likelihood from sequencing data demonstrated the occurrence of a single species, Cichla kelberi. A single haplotype was observed for the 16S and CR, while three were detected for COI, with a dominant haplotype present in 98.5% of the samples. The extreme low diversity of the transplanted C. kelberi evidenced a limited number of founding maternal lineages. The success of this colonization seems to rely mainly on abiotic factors, such as increased water transparency of lentic environments that favor visual predators that along with the absence of predators, have made C. kelberi a successful invader of these reservoirs.

Resumo Muitas espécies de Cichla colonizaram com sucesso lagos e reservatórios do Brasil desde os anos 1960, causando graves prejuízos à vida selvagem nesses locais. Neste estudo, 135 tucunarés foram coletados em um complexo de reservatórios a fim de identificar se representavam uma espécie dominante ou múltiplas espécies, uma vez que diversas espécies de Cichla foram registradas na bacia. Os espécimes foram identificados com base na coloração, dados morfométricos e merísticos, e por marcadores mitocondriais COI, 16S rDNA e Região Controle (RC). A sobreposição dos dados morfométricos e o padrão similar de coloração impediram a identificação utilizando as chaves de identificação disponíveis na literatura. Entretanto, as análises bayesiana e de máxima verossimilhança de dados moleculares demonstraram a ocorrência de uma única espécie, Cichla kelberi. Um único haplótipo foi observado para o 16S e RC, enquanto três foram detectados para o COI, com um haplótipo dominante presente em 98,5% das amostras. A baixa diversidade nos exemplares introduzidos de C. kelberi evidenciou um número limitado de linhagens maternas fundadoras. O sucesso da invasão parece depender de fatores abióticos, como a maior transparência da água de ambientes lênticos que favorece predadores visuais que, atrelado à ausência de predadores, fez do C. kelberi um invasor bem-sucedido nesses reservatórios.

Sequencing and multiple antimicrobial resistance of Pseudomonas fluorescens isolated from Nile tilapia fish in Egypt / Sequenciamento e resistência antimicrobiana múltipla de Pseudomonas fluorescens isoladas de tilápia-do-nilo no Egito

Pseudomonas fluorescens is one of the main causes of septicemic diseases among freshwater fish, causing severe economic losses and decreasing farm efficiency. Thus, this research was aimed to investigate the occurrence of P. fluorescens in Nile Tilapia (O. niloticus) fish in Egypt, gene sequencing of 16SrDNA gene, and antimicrobial susceptibility. P. fluorescens strains were detected in 32% (128/400) of apparently healthy (9%; 36/400) and diseased (23%; 92/400) Nile tilapia fish. The highest prevalence was observed in gills of fish, 31.3% followed by intestine 26.9%, liver 24.2%, and kidneys 17.6%. The PCR results for the 16SrDNA gene of P. fluorescens showed 16SrDNA gene in 30% of examined isolates. Moreover, Homogeny and a strong relationship between strains of P. fluorescens was confirmed using 16SrDNA sequences. Beside the responsibility of 16SrDNA gene on the virulence of P. fluorescens. The results of antimicrobial susceptibility tests revealed that all strains were resistant to piperacillin (100%), followed by ceftazidime (29.7%), and cefepime (25.8%). The strains of P. fluorescence were highly sensitive to cefotaxime (74.2%), followed by ceftriaxone and levofloxacin (70.3% each). Interestingly, 29.7% of strains of P. fluorescens were multiple antimicrobial-resistant (MAR).

Pseudomonas fluorescens é uma das principais causas de doenças septicêmicas em peixes de água doce, causando graves perdas econômicas e diminuindo a eficiência da fazenda. Assim, esta pesquisa teve como objetivo investigar a ocorrência de P. fluorescens em peixes de tilápia-do-nilo (O. niloticus) no Egito, sequenciamento do gene 16S rDNA e suscetibilidade antimicrobiana. Cepas de P. fluorescens foram detectadas em 32% (128/400) de peixes tilápia-do-nilo aparentemente saudáveis ​​(9%; 36/400) e doentes (23%; 92/400). A maior prevalência foi observada nas brânquias dos peixes, 31,3%, seguida pelo intestino 26,9%, fígado 24,2% e rins 17,6%. Os resultados da PCR para o gene 16SrDNA de P. fluorescens mostraram o gene 16SrDNA em 30% dos isolados examinados. Além disso, a homogeneidade e uma forte relação entre cepas de P. fluorescens foi confirmada usando sequências de 16SrDNA. Além da responsabilidade do gene 16SrDNA na virulência de P. fluorescens. Os resultados dos testes de suscetibilidade antimicrobiana revelaram que todas as cepas foram resistentes à piperacilina (100%), seguida pela ceftazidima (29,7%) e cefepima (25,8%). As cepas de P. fluorescens foram altamente sensíveis à cefotaxima (74,2%), seguida pela ceftriaxona e levofloxacina (70,3% cada). Curiosamente, 29,7% das cepas de P. fluorescens eram multirresistentes a antimicrobianos (MAR).