A comparative assessment of air pollutants of smog in wagah border and other sites in Lahore, Pakistan / Uma avaliação comparativa de poluentes do ar do smog na fronteira de wagah e outros sites em Lahore, Paquistão

Abstract Smog has become the fifth season of Pakistan especially in Lahore city. Increased level of air pollutants (primary and secondary) are thought to be responsible for the formation of smog in Lahore. Therefore, the current study was carried out for the evaluation of air pollutants (primary and secondary) of smog in Wagah border particularly and other sites (Jail road, Gulburg) Lahore. For this purpose, baseline data on winter smog from March to December on primary and secondary air pollutants and meteorological parameters was collected from Environmental Protection Department and Pakistan Meteorological Department respectively. Devices being used in both departments for analysis of parameters were also studied. Collected data was further statistically analyzed to determine the correlation of parameters with meteorological conditions and was subjected to air quality index. According to results, PM 10 and PM 2.5 were found very high above the NEQS. NOx concentrations were also high above the permissible limits whereas SO2 and O3 were found below the NEQS thus have no roles in smog formation. Air Quality Index (AQI) of pollutants was PM 2.5(86-227), PM 10 (46-332), NOx (26-110), O3 (19-84) and SO2 (10-95). AQI of PM 2.5 remained between moderate to very unhealthy levels. AQI of PM 10 remained between good to hazardous levels. AQI of NOx remained between good to unhealthy for sensitive groups' levels. AQI of O3 and SO2 remained between good to moderate levels. Pearson correlation showed that every pollutant has a different relation with different or same parameters in different areas. It is concluded from the present study that particulate matter was much more responsible for smog formation. Although NOx also played role in smog formation. So there is need to reduce sources of particulate matter and NOx specifically in order to reduce smog formation in Lahore.

Resumo Smog tornou-se a quinta estação do Paquistão, especialmente na cidade de Lahore. Acredita-se que o aumento do nível de poluentes atmosféricos (primários e secundários) seja responsável pela formação de poluição atmosférica em Lahore. Portanto, o presente estudo foi realizado para a avaliação dos poluentes atmosféricos (primários e secundários) do smog na fronteira de Wagah em particular e em outros locais (Jail road, Gulburg) Lahore. Para este propósito, os dados de referência sobre a poluição atmosférica de inverno de março a dezembro sobre poluentes atmosféricos primários e secundários e parâmetros meteorológicos foram coletados do Departamento de Proteção Ambiental e do Departamento Meteorológico do Paquistão, respectivamente. Dispositivos sendo usados ​​em ambos os departamentos para análise de parâmetros também foram estudados. Os dados coletados foram posteriormente analisados ​​estatisticamente para determinar a correlação dos parâmetros com as condições meteorológicas e foram submetidos ao índice de qualidade do ar. De acordo com os resultados, PM 10 e PM 2,5 foram encontrados muito acima do NEQS. As concentrações de NOx também estavam muito acima dos limites permitidos, enquanto SO2 e O3 foram encontrados abaixo do NEQS, portanto, não têm papéis na formação de smog. O índice de qualidade do ar (AQI) de poluentes foi PM 2,5 (86-227), PM 10 (46-332), NOx (26-110), O3 (19-84) e SO2 (10-95). O AQI de PM 2,5 permaneceu entre níveis moderados a muito prejudiciais à saúde. O AQI de PM 10 permaneceu entre níveis bons e perigosos. AQI de NOx permaneceu entre bom e não saudável para os níveis de grupos sensíveis. O AQI de O3 e SO2 permaneceu entre níveis bons a moderados. A correlação de Pearson mostrou que cada poluente tem uma relação diferente com parâmetros diferentes ou iguais em áreas diferentes. Conclui-se do presente estudo que o material particulado foi muito mais responsável pela formação de smog. Embora o NOx também tenha desempenhado um papel na formação do smog. Portanto, é necessário reduzir as fontes de partículas e NOx, especificamente para reduzir a formação de smog em Lahore.

Genetic variations among the isolates of Bipolaris Maydis based on phenotypic and molecular markers

Abstract Maydis leaf blight, caused by Bipolaris maydis, is an important disease of maize crop in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Pakistan. Fifteen isolates of the pathogen, collected across KP, were studied for variability based on phenotypic and molecular markers. Significant variability among the isolates was observed when assessed using phenotypic traits such as radial growth, spore concentration, fungicide sensitivity and virulence. The isolates were classified into six culture groups based on colour, texture and margins of the colony. Conidial morphology was also variable. These were either straight or slightly curved and light to dark brown in colour. Fungicide test showed significant variation in the degree of sensitivity against Carbendazim. Isolate Bm8 exhibited maximum radial growth on carbendazim spiked plates. Conversely, isolate Bm15 showed the lowest radial growth. Variations in virulence pattern of the isolates were evident when a susceptible maize variety Azam was inoculated with spores of B. maydis. Genetic variability amongst the isolates was also estimated by RAPD as well as sequencing of ITS region. The RAPD dendrogram grouped all the isolates into two major clusters. Average genetic distance ranged from 0.6% to 100%, indicating a diverse genetic gap among the isolates. Maximum genetic distance was found between isolates Bm9 and Bm10 as well as Bm2 and Bm8. Conversely, isolates Bm13 and Bm15 were at minimum genetic distance. Phylogenetic dendrogram based on sequencing of ITS region grouped all the isolates into a single major cluster. The clusters in both the dendrogram neither correlate to the geographical distribution nor to the morphological characteristics.

Resumo A ferrugem das folhas de maydis, causada por Bipolaris maydis, é uma doença importante da cultura do milho em Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Paquistão. Quinze isolados do patógeno, coletados em KP, foram estudados quanto à variabilidade com base em marcadores fenotípicos e moleculares. Variabilidade significativa entre os isolados foi observada quando avaliada por meio de características fenotípicas, como crescimento radial, concentração de esporos, sensibilidade a fungicida e virulência. Os isolados foram classificados em seis grupos de cultura com base na cor, textura e margens da colônia. A morfologia dos conídios também foi variável. Estes eram retos ou ligeiramente curvos e de cor marrom-claro a escuro. O teste de fungicida mostrou variação significativa no grau de sensibilidade ao carbendazim. O isolado Bm8 exibiu crescimento radial máximo em placas com adição de carbendazim. Por outro lado, o isolado Bm15 apresentou o menor crescimento radial. As variações no padrão de virulência dos isolados foram evidentes quando uma variedade de milho suscetível Azam foi inoculada com esporos de B. maydis. A variabilidade genética entre os isolados também foi estimada por RAPD, bem como sequenciamento da região ITS. O dendrograma RAPD agrupou todos os isolados em dois grupos principais. A distância genética média variou de 0,6% a 100%, indicando uma lacuna genética diversa entre os isolados. A distância genética máxima foi encontrada entre os isolados Bm9 e Bm10 e também entre Bm2 e Bm8. Por outro lado, os isolados Bm13 e Bm15 estavam a uma distância genética mínima. O dendrograma filogenético baseado no sequenciamento da região ITS agrupou todos os isolados em um único aglomerado principal. Os agrupamentos em ambos os dendrogramas não se correlacionam com a distribuição geográfica nem com as características morfológicas.

A comparative assessment of air pollutants of smog in wagah border and other sites in Lahore, Pakistan

Abstract Smog has become the fifth season of Pakistan especially in Lahore city. Increased level of air pollutants (primary and secondary) are thought to be responsible for the formation of smog in Lahore. Therefore, the current study was carried out for the evaluation of air pollutants (primary and secondary) of smog in Wagah border particularly and other sites (Jail road, Gulburg) Lahore. For this purpose, baseline data on winter smog from March to December on primary and secondary air pollutants and meteorological parameters was collected from Environmental Protection Department and Pakistan Meteorological Department respectively. Devices being used in both departments for analysis of parameters were also studied. Collected data was further statistically analyzed to determine the correlation of parameters with meteorological conditions and was subjected to air quality index. According to results, PM 10 and PM 2.5 were found very high above the NEQS. NOx concentrations were also high above the permissible limits whereas SO2 and O3 were found below the NEQS thus have no roles in smog formation. Air Quality Index (AQI) of pollutants was PM 2.5(86-227), PM 10 (46-332), NOx (26-110), O3 (19-84) and SO2 (10-95). AQI of PM 2.5 remained between moderate to very unhealthy levels. AQI of PM 10 remained between good to hazardous levels. AQI of NOx remained between good to unhealthy for sensitive groups levels. AQI of O3 and SO2 remained between good to moderate levels. Pearson correlation showed that every pollutant has a different relation with different or same parameters in different areas. It is concluded from the present study that particulate matter was much more responsible for smog formation. Although NOx also played role in smog formation. So there is need to reduce sources of particulate matter and NOx specifically in order to reduce smog formation in Lahore.

Resumo Smog tornou-se a quinta estação do Paquistão, especialmente na cidade de Lahore. Acredita-se que o aumento do nível de poluentes atmosféricos (primários e secundários) seja responsável pela formação de poluição atmosférica em Lahore. Portanto, o presente estudo foi realizado para a avaliação dos poluentes atmosféricos (primários e secundários) do smog na fronteira de Wagah em particular e em outros locais (Jail road, Gulburg) Lahore. Para este propósito, os dados de referência sobre a poluição atmosférica de inverno de março a dezembro sobre poluentes atmosféricos primários e secundários e parâmetros meteorológicos foram coletados do Departamento de Proteção Ambiental e do Departamento Meteorológico do Paquistão, respectivamente. Dispositivos sendo usados em ambos os departamentos para análise de parâmetros também foram estudados. Os dados coletados foram posteriormente analisados estatisticamente para determinar a correlação dos parâmetros com as condições meteorológicas e foram submetidos ao índice de qualidade do ar. De acordo com os resultados, PM 10 e PM 2,5 foram encontrados muito acima do NEQS. As concentrações de NOx também estavam muito acima dos limites permitidos, enquanto SO2 e O3 foram encontrados abaixo do NEQS, portanto, não têm papéis na formação de smog. O índice de qualidade do ar (AQI) de poluentes foi PM 2,5 (86-227), PM 10 (46-332), NOx (26-110), O3 (19-84) e SO2 (10-95). O AQI de PM 2,5 permaneceu entre níveis moderados a muito prejudiciais à saúde. O AQI de PM 10 permaneceu entre níveis bons e perigosos. AQI de NOx permaneceu entre bom e não saudável para os níveis de grupos sensíveis. O AQI de O3 e SO2 permaneceu entre níveis bons a moderados. A correlação de Pearson mostrou que cada poluente tem uma relação diferente com parâmetros diferentes ou iguais em áreas diferentes. Conclui-se do presente estudo que o material particulado foi muito mais responsável pela formação de smog. Embora o NOx também tenha desempenhado um papel na formação do smog. Portanto, é necessário reduzir as fontes de partículas e NOx, especificamente para reduzir a formação de smog em Lahore.

Genomic characterization of Puccinia triticina using molecular marker technology / Caracterização genômica de Puccinia triticina usando tecnologia de marcadores moleculares

Leaf rust, caused by Puccinia triticina, is the most common rust disease of wheat. The fungus is an obligate parasite capable of producing infectious urediniospores. To study the genetic structure of the leaf rust population 20 RAPD primers were evaluated on 15 isolates samples collected in Pakistan. A total of 105 RAPD fragments were amplified with an average of 7 fragments per primer. The number of amplified fragments varied from 1 to 12. GL Decamer L-07 and GL Decamer L-01 amplified the highest number of bands (twelve) and primer GL Decamer A-03 amplified the lowest number of bands i.e one. Results showed that almost all investigated isolates were genetically different that confirms high genetic diversity within the leaf rust population. Rust spores can follow the migration pattern in short and long distances to neighbor areas. Results indicated that the greatest variability was revealed by 74.9% of genetic differentiation within leaf rust populations. These results suggested that each population was not completely identical and high gene flow has occurred among the leaf rust population of different areas. The highest differentiation and genetic distance among the Pakistani leaf rust populations were detected between the leaf rust population in NARC isolate (NARC-4) and AARI-11and the highest similarity was observed between NARC isolates (NARC-4) and (NARC-5). The present study showed the leaf rust population in Pakistan is highly dynamic and variable.

A ferrugem da folha, causada por Puccinia triticina, é a ferrugem mais comum do trigo. O fungo é um parasita obrigatório, capaz de produzir urediniósporos infecciosos. Para estudar a estrutura genética da população de ferrugem da folha, 20 primers RAPD foram avaliados em 15 amostras de isolados coletadas no Paquistão. Um total de 105 fragmentos RAPD foram amplificados com uma média de 7 fragmentos por primer. O número de fragmentos amplificados variou de 1 a 12. GL Decamer L-07 e GL Decamer L-01 amplificaram o maior número de bandas (doze), e o primer GL Decamer A-03 amplificou o menor número de bandas, ou seja, um. Os resultados mostraram que quase todos os isolados investigados eram geneticamente diferentes, o que confirma a alta diversidade genética na população de ferrugem da folha. Os esporos de ferrugem podem seguir o padrão de migração em distâncias curtas e longas para áreas vizinhas. Os resultados indicaram que a maior variabilidade foi revelada por 74,9% da diferenciação genética nas populações de ferrugem. Esses resultados sugeriram que cada população não era completamente idêntica e um alto fluxo gênico ocorreu entre a população de ferrugem da folha de diferentes áreas. A maior diferenciação e distância genética entre as populações de ferrugem da folha do Paquistão foram detectadas entre a população de ferrugem da folha no isolado NARC (NARC-4) e AARI-11 e a maior similaridade foi observada entre os isolados NARC (NARC-4) e (NARC-5). O presente estudo mostrou que a população de ferrugem da folha no Paquistão é altamente dinâmica e variável.

Outcome of different modes of non-invasive ventilation in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients with type II respiratory failure

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive inflammatory airway disorder often leading to type II respiratory failure (RF). Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) is crucial in COPD management. This study compares T (Timed), ST (Spontaneous-Timed), and iVAPS (Intelligent volume assured pressure support) modes. Method: A prospective, experimental, comparative study spanned two years. One hundred COPD patients with Type 2 RF were randomized into three groups: T mode (n=33), ST mode (n=33), and iVAPS mode (n=34). Outcome assessment included clinical, hematological parameters, and intubation rate. Result: The study revealed varying degrees of success among the three modes of NIV. iVAPS mode demonstrated the highest success rate, with 79.4% of cases achieving positive outcomes. Noteworthy improvements were observed in respiratory rate (RR) and oxygen saturation (SpO2) in the iVAPS group after 12 hours of NIV. Both the ST mode and iVAPS mode showed significant increases in pH levels, with a more pronounced improvement seen in the iVAPS group. Additionally, a substantial reduction in pCO2 levels after BiPAP was noted in the iVAPS group. The intubation rate was lowest in the iVAPS group, though the difference did not reach statistical significance. Conclusions: iVAPS mode demonstrated superior outcomes, including significant improvements in RR, SpO2, pH, and pCO2. While the intubation rate was lowest in the iVAPS group, statistical significance was not achieved. iVAPS emerges as a promising alternative, potentially averting the need for invasive ventilation. Larger, diverse studies are needed to validate these findings.

Safety and efficacy of formoterol/tiotropium bromide and formoterol/glycopyrronium combination in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is characterized by a progressive development of airflow limitation that is not fully reversible. The study investigated the efficacy and safety of formoterol/tiotropium bromide and formoterol/glycopyrronium combination in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Glycopyrrolate, a long-acting anti-muscarinic agent is recently approved for the maintenance therapy of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in combination with formoterol. However, the studies on glycopyrrolate along with long-acting beta 2 agonist, particularly in Indian patients are limited. Hence it was considered worthwhile to determine safety and efficacy of fixed dose combinations of formoterol/ tiotropium vs. formoterol/glycopyrrolate in grade-2 patients of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients. Methods: Efficacy and safety of formoterol/glycopyrrolate and formoterol/tiotropium were compared in Grade-2 patients. Total 68 patients were analysed and the efficacy of treatment was determined by Spirometry, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Assessment Test score and Symptom score at day zero (before therapeutic intervention) and at two weeks of interval till 12 weeks. Results: The treatment with inhaled combination of formoterol/glycopyrrolate and formoterol/tiotropium has shown an improvement in spirometric variable Forced Expiratory Volume (in one second) decrease in mean Symptom score and COPD Assessment Test score among the grade-2 Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease patients. Conclusions: Combination therapy of formoterol/glycopyrrolate is non-inferior to formoterol/tiotropium in terms of efficacy and safety profile of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Clinico-epidemiological study of safe and unsafe chronic suppurative otitis media

Introduction: Chronic Suppurative Otitis Media (CSOM) remains one of the most commonest chronic infectious diseases worldwide particularly in children and adolescents. India has been classified as the high prevalence country with national prevalence of 4%. Knowledge of differential regional prevalence of risk factors is required for adequate health education of masses and for customised preventive and control measures in respective areas. Aims: To study the clinical and sociodemographic profile of patients with CSOM. Methods: The study was carried out in the department of Otorhinolaryngology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, AMU, Aligarh from November, 2017 to December, 2019. Patients with CSOM attending the otorhinolaryngology OPD and those admitted in IPD were included in the study. Results: A total 200 cases of chronic suppurative otitis media including both safe (mucosal) and unsafe (squamous) type were studied. The mean age of participants was 22.8 ± 15.18 years. Of the total participants, 111 (55.5%, 95% CI 48.6 to 62.2) were males, 89 (44.5%, 95% CI 37.8 to 51.4) were females and the majority (60.5%, 95% CI 53.6 to 67) of them were from rural background. Around onefourth of the patients were illiterate (23%, 95% CI 17.7 to 29.3) and the patients mostly belonged to lower side (lower middle, upper lower and lower) of the spectrum of Kuppuswamy socioeconomic classification. The distribution of age-group, gender and laterality (side of involvement) was similar (P>0.05) in both safe and unsafe type. Overall, 151(75.5%, 95% CI 69.9 to 80.9) patients were found to have conductive hearing loss, 30 (15%, 95% CI 10.7 to 20.6) with mixed and 19 (9.5%, 95% CI 6.2 to 14.4) did not have any hearing loss at presentation. The distribution of patients with regards to hearing loss was found to be similar in both safe and unsafe groups (P = 0.311). Conclusion: CSOM particularly afflicts younger age populations from rural background with poor socioeconomic status. Appropriate timely interventions in the form of health promotion, education about the risk factors and improvement in the living conditions will result in decrease in incidence and prevalence of the disease. Moreover, knowledge of symptoms and signs of the disease is likely to result in early seeking of healthcare and hence better treatment outcomes and prevention of complications.

Molecular classification and comparative phylogeographic study of insectivorous bat species (Pipisitrellus coromandra) from Punjab, Pakistan / Classificação molecular e estudo filogeográfico comparativo de espécies de morcegos insetívoros (Pipistrellus coromandra) de Punjab, Paquistão

Molecular based identification of bat fauna in Pakistan has been relatively less explored. The current study was therefore planned to report for the first time the molecular classification of insectivorous bats (Pipistrellus coromandra) based on mitochondrion gene (COI) from Punjab, Pakistan. Specimens were collected from five different locations followed by DNA extraction with subsequent gene amplification and sequencing. All samples in the study had shown close identity matches with species (Pipistrellus coromandra) from India and (Pipistrellus tenuis) from Vietnam with percentage identity score of 96.11 and 95.58 respectively except one sequence which only revealed 86.78% identity match on Basic Local Alignment Search Tool (BLAST) and could only be assigned to genus level Pipistrellus sp. The results indicated negligible intra-population genetic distance among collected samples whereas the comparison with species from other countries had shown high intraspecific (P. coromandra) and interspecific (P. tenuis) mean genetic distances. The current study hence successfully proved the efficiency of COI gene as a molecular marker for species identification and in analyzing the patterns of genetic variation with species from other countries.

A identificação com base molecular da fauna de morcegos no Paquistão tem sido relativamente menos explorada. Portanto, o estudo atual foi planejado para relatar pela primeira vez a classificação molecular de morcegos insetívoros (Pipistrellus coromandra) com base no gene da mitocôndria (COI) de Punjab, Paquistão. As amostras foram coletadas em cinco locais diferentes, seguidas pela extração de DNA com subsequente amplificação e sequenciamento do gene. Todas as amostras no estudo mostraram coincidências de identidade próximas com espécies (Pipistrellus coromandra) da Índia e (Pipistrellus tenuis) do Vietnã, com pontuação de identidade percentual de 96,11 e 95,58, respectivamente, exceto uma sequência que revelou apenas 86,78% de correspondência de identidade na Ferramenta de Pesquisa de Alinhamento Local Básico (BLAST), a qual só poderia ser atribuída ao nível de gênero Pipistrellus sp. Os resultados indicaram distância genética intrapopulacional desprezível entre as amostras coletadas, enquanto a comparação com espécies de outros países mostrou altas distâncias genéticas intraespecíficas (P. coromandra) e interespecíficas (P. tenuis) médias. O presente estudo, portanto, comprovou com sucesso a eficiência do gene COI como marcador molecular para identificação de espécies e análise dos padrões de variação genética com espécies de outros países.

Molecular classification and comparative phylogeographic study of insectivorous bat species (Pipisitrellus coromandra) from Punjab, Pakistan

Abstract Molecular based identification of bat fauna in Pakistan has been relatively less explored. The current study was therefore planned to report for the first time the molecular classification of insectivorous bats (Pipistrellus coromandra) based on mitochondrion gene (COI) from Punjab, Pakistan. Specimens were collected from five different locations followed by DNA extraction with subsequent gene amplification and sequencing. All samples in the study had shown close identity matches with species (Pipistrellus coromandra) from India and (Pipistrellus tenuis) from Vietnam with percentage identity score of 96.11 and 95.58 respectively except one sequence which only revealed 86.78% identity match on Basic Local Alignment Search Tool (BLAST) and could only be assigned to genus level Pipistrellus sp. The results indicated negligible intra-population genetic distance among collected samples whereas the comparison with species from other countries had shown high intraspecific (P. coromandra) and interspecific (P. tenuis) mean genetic distances. The current study hence successfully proved the efficiency of COI gene as a molecular marker for species identification and in analyzing the patterns of genetic variation with species from other countries.

Resumo A identificação com base molecular da fauna de morcegos no Paquistão tem sido relativamente menos explorada. Portanto, o estudo atual foi planejado para relatar pela primeira vez a classificação molecular de morcegos insetívoros (Pipistrellus coromandra) com base no gene da mitocôndria (COI) de Punjab, Paquistão. As amostras foram coletadas em cinco locais diferentes, seguidas pela extração de DNA com subsequente amplificação e sequenciamento do gene. Todas as amostras no estudo mostraram coincidências de identidade próximas com espécies (Pipistrellus coromandra) da Índia e (Pipistrellus tenuis) do Vietnã, com pontuação de identidade percentual de 96,11 e 95,58, respectivamente, exceto uma sequência que revelou apenas 86,78% de correspondência de identidade na Ferramenta de Pesquisa de Alinhamento Local Básico (BLAST), a qual só poderia ser atribuída ao nível de gênero Pipistrellus sp. Os resultados indicaram distância genética intrapopulacional desprezível entre as amostras coletadas, enquanto a comparação com espécies de outros países mostrou altas distâncias genéticas intraespecíficas (P. coromandra) e interespecíficas (P. tenuis) médias. O presente estudo, portanto, comprovou com sucesso a eficiência do gene COI como marcador molecular para identificação de espécies e análise dos padrões de variação genética com espécies de outros países.

Molecular classification and comparative phylogeographic study of insectivorous bat species (Pipisitrellus coromandra) from Punjab, Pakistan / Classificação molecular e estudo filogeográfico comparativo de espécies de morcegos insetívoros (Pipistrellus coromandra) de Punjab, Paquistão

Molecular based identification of bat fauna in Pakistan has been relatively less explored. The current study was therefore planned to report for the first time the molecular classification of insectivorous bats (Pipistrellus coromandra) based on mitochondrion gene (COI) from Punjab, Pakistan. Specimens were collected from five different locations followed by DNA extraction with subsequent gene amplification and sequencing. All samples in the study had shown close identity matches with species (Pipistrellus coromandra) from India and (Pipistrellus tenuis) from Vietnam with percentage identity score of 96.11 and 95.58 respectively except one sequence which only revealed 86.78% identity match on Basic Local Alignment Search Tool (BLAST) and could only be assigned to genus level Pipistrellus sp. The results indicated negligible intra-population genetic distance among collected samples whereas the comparison with species from other countries had shown high intraspecific (P. coromandra) and interspecific (P. tenuis) mean genetic distances. The current study hence successfully proved the efficiency of COI gene as a molecular marker for species identification and in analyzing the patterns of genetic variation with species from other countries.

A identificação com base molecular da fauna de morcegos no Paquistão tem sido relativamente menos explorada. Portanto, o estudo atual foi planejado para relatar pela primeira vez a classificação molecular de morcegos insetívoros (Pipistrellus coromandra) com base no gene da mitocôndria (COI) de Punjab, Paquistão. As amostras foram coletadas em cinco locais diferentes, seguidas pela extração de DNA com subsequente amplificação e sequenciamento do gene. Todas as amostras no estudo mostraram coincidências de identidade próximas com espécies (Pipistrellus coromandra) da Índia e (Pipistrellus tenuis) do Vietnã, com pontuação de identidade percentual de 96,11 e 95,58, respectivamente, exceto uma sequência que revelou apenas 86,78% de correspondência de identidade na Ferramenta de Pesquisa de Alinhamento Local Básico (BLAST), a qual só poderia ser atribuída ao nível de gênero Pipistrellus sp. Os resultados indicaram distância genética intrapopulacional desprezível entre as amostras coletadas, enquanto a comparação com espécies de outros países mostrou altas distâncias genéticas intraespecíficas (P. coromandra) e interespecíficas (P. tenuis) médias. O presente estudo, portanto, comprovou com sucesso a eficiência do gene COI como marcador molecular para identificação de espécies e análise dos padrões de variação genética com espécies de outros países.

Parasitic prevalence in bat fauna captured from selected sites in northwestern Pakistan / Prevalência parasitária na fauna de morcegos capturados em locais selecionados no noroeste do Paquistão

Abstract Present study was conducted to record ecotoparasitic prevalence in bat fauna of the northwestern parts of Pakistan. A total of 204 bat specimens representing 14 species were captured during a two year survey, extending from June 2015 through May 2016. A species of soft ticks Argas vespertilionis was identified from 23 bat specimens. Similarly, members of the family Dermanyssoidae (dermanyssoid mites) were isolated from 10 bat specimens, that of Spinturnicidae (spinturnicid mites) from 3 and Streblidae (bat flies) from 2 bat specimens. These parasites were collected using entomological tweezers and were identified on morphological basis. Further studies on parasitic prevalence, molecular characterization of bat parasites and their control measures are recommended.

Resumo O presente estudo foi realizado para registrar a prevalência de ectoparasitas na fauna de morcegos em partes do noroeste do Paquistão. Um total de 204 espécimes de morcegos, representando 14 espécies, foi capturado durante uma pesquisa de dois anos, de junho de 2015 a maio de 2016. A espécie de carrapato Argas vespertilionis foi identificada em 23 espécimes de morcegos. Da mesma forma, os membros da família Dermanyssidae (ácaros dermanyssoid) foram isolados de 10 espécimes de morcego, os da Spinturnicidae (ácaros spinturnicid), de 3, e os da Streblidae (mosca de morcego), de 2 espécimes de morcego. Esses parasitas foram coletados com pinça entomológica e identificados com base morfológica. Estudos adicionais sobre prevalência parasitária, caracterização molecular de parasitas de morcego e suas medidas de controle devem ser realizados.

Phytochemical analysis and biological activities of ethanolic extract of Curcuma longa rhizome / Análise fitoquímica e atividades biológicas do extrato etanólico do rizoma de Curcuma longa

Abstract Curcuma longa is an important dietary plant which possess several pharmacological activities, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflamatory, anticancer and anti clotting etc. The aim of the present study was to determine the phenolic profile of Curcuma longa and in vitro antioxidant and antidiabetic activities. In HPLC chromatogram of Curcuma longa rhizome extract 15 phenolic compounds were identified namely Digalloyl-hexoside, Caffeic acid hexoside, Curdione, Coumaric, Caffeic acid, Sinapic acid, Qurecetin-3-D-galactoside, Casuarinin, Bisdemethoxycurcumin, Curcuminol, Demethoxycurcumin, and Isorhamnetin, Valoneic acid bilactone, Curcumin, Curcumin-O-glucuronide respectively. The ethanolic extract displayed an IC50 value of 37.1±0.3 µg/ml against alpha glucosidase. The IC50 value of DPPH radical scavenging activity was 27.2 ± 1.1 μg/mL. It is concluded that ethanolic extract of Curcuma long is rich source of curcumin and contain several important phenolics. The in vitro antioxidant and alpha glucosidase inhibitory effect of the plant justifies its popular use in traditional medicine.

Resumo A Curcuma longa é uma importante planta presente na dieta da população, pois possui diversas atividades farmacológicas, incluindo antioxidante, antimicrobiana, anti-inflamatória, anticancerígena, anticoagulante etc. O objetivo do presente estudo foi elucidar o perfil fenólico da Curcuma longa e determinar as atividades antioxidante e antidiabética in vitro do extrato. No cromatograma por HPLC do extrato de rizoma de Curcuma longa, foram identificados 15 compostos fenólicos: digaloil-hexosídeo, hexosídeo de ácido cafeico, curdiona, cumárico, ácido cafeico, ácido sinápico, quercetina-3-D-galactosídeo, casuarinina, bisdemetoxicurcumina, curcuminol, demetoxicurcumina, isoramnetina, bilactona de ácido valônico, curcumina e curcumina-O-glicuronídeo. O extrato etanólico apresentou um valor de IC50 de 37,1 ± 0,3 µg / mL em relação à alfa-glucosidase. O valor de IC50 da atividade de eliminação de radicais DPPH foi de 27,2 ± 1,1 μg / mL. Conclui-se que o extrato etanólico de Curcuma longa é uma rica fonte de curcumina e contém várias substâncias fenólicas importantes. O efeito antioxidante in vitro e inibidor da alfa-glucosidase da planta justifica seu uso popular na medicina tradicional.

Determinants of the Psychological States of Mothers of Children With Cerebral Palsy: A Cross-sectional Study in Bangladesh

@#Introduction: Cerebral palsy is a group of early childhood chronic mobility disorders. Parenting a child with cerebral palsy is often challenging, especially for mothers. This research aimed to identify the determinants of the psychological states of mothers of children with cerebral palsy in Bangladesh. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2019 to February 2020. A total of 344 mothers of children with cerebral palsy was recruited using a simple random sampling technique and guided questionnaires. The data were analysed using the Chi-square test and logistic regression models. Results: The overall response rate was 98.29%. The median (IQR) age of respondents and the children with cerebral palsy were 30 (13) and 6 (6), respectively. The proportions of mothers with good knowledge on cerebral palsy and having higher negative family impact were 57.8% and 41.9%, respectively. Fifty-nine per cent of mothers of children with cerebral palsy had higher levels of maternal psychological stress. The predictors of maternal psychological stress were the mother’s age, marital status, types of family, family income, age of children, gender, and higher levels of the negative maternal appraisal. Conclusions: Mothers of children with cerebral palsy in Bangladesh had a higher level of maternal psychological stress. The factors identified in this study could help to develop policies and strategies to minimise maternal psychological stress associated with parenting children with cerebral palsy in Bangladeshi households.

Toxicity bioassay and sub-lethal effects of diazinon on blood profile and histology of liver, gills and kidney of catfish, Clarias gariepinus / Toxicidade bioensaio e efeitos sub-letais do diazinon no perfil sangüíneo e histologia do fígado, brânquias e rim de peixe-gato, clarias gariepinus

Abstract The catfish, Clarias gariepinus, was exposed to different acute concentrations (5-10 mg/l) of diazinon and the Lc50 value was recorded as high as 7.3 mg/l for 96 hours. The fishes exposed to three sub-lethal levels of diazinon (0.73, 1.095 and 1.46 mg/l) for 30 days showed that the pesticide induces changes in different blood parameters. Number of red blood cells (RBC), haemoglobin level and haematocrit values were elevated whereas white blood cells (WBC) count was reduced. Various blood indices like mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular haemoglobine (MCH) and mean corpuscular haemoglobine concentration (MCHC) vary insignificantly in the fish treated with diazinon. Glucose level and activity level of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) was increased in Clarias gariepinus exposed to diazinon. Protein level in plasma of fish treated with pesticide was changed but the change was insignificant. Histological changes in the liver, gills and kidney of fishes exposed to diazinon were apparent when compared to control. Hepatocytes necrosis and bleeding were more distinct in the fishes exposed to pesticide. Glomerulus hypertrophy and bleeding in kidneys; and fusion and degeneration of secondary lamellae and epithelial hyperplasia in gills were also observed in the exposed fish.

Resumo O peixe-gato, Clarias gariepinus, foi exposto a diferentes concentrações agudas (5-10 mg / l) de diazinon e o valor de Lc50 foi registrado tão alto quanto 7,3 mg / l por 96 horas. Os peixes expostos a três níveis sub-letais de diazinon (0,73, 1,095 e 1,46 mg / l) por 30 dias mostraram que o pesticida induz mudanças nos diferentes parâmetros sanguíneos. O número de glóbulos vermelhos, o nível de hemoglobina e os valores do hematócrito foram elevados, enquanto a contagem de leucócitos foi reduzida. Vários índices sanguíneos, como volume corpuscular médio (VCM), hemoglobina corpuscular média (HCM) e concentração de hemoglobina corpuscular média (CHCM) variam insignificantemente nos peixes tratados com diazinon. Nível de glicose e nível de atividade de AST e ALT foi aumentado em Clarias gariepinus expostos a diazinon. O nível de proteína no plasma de peixes tratados com pesticidas foi alterado, mas a mudança foi insignificante. Alterações histológicas no fígado, brânquias e rins de peixes expostos ao diazinon foram aparentes quando comparados ao controle. A necrose e o sangramento de hepatócitos foram mais distintos nos peixes expostos ao agrotóxico. Hipertrofia do glomérulo e sangramento nos rins; e fusão e degeneração de lamelas secundárias e hiperplasia epitelial em brânquias também foram observadas nos peixes expostos.

Comparison Between Endoscopic Prelacrimal Medial Maxillectomy and Caldwell-Luc Approach for Benign Maxillary Sinus Tumors

OBJECTIVES: Endoscopic prelacrimal medial maxillectomy (EPMM) was previously reported to treat maxillary inverted papilloma. This study aimed to compare prelacrimal recess approach with the conventional Caldwell-Luc approach (CLA) to remove benign maxillary sinus tumors and to evaluate the usefulness of this approach based on our experience. METHODS: Ten patients who underwent EPMM at our hospital from January 2013 to December 2017 were reviewed. We also reviewed 30 patients who underwent benign maxillary sinus tumor resection via CLA during the same period. From medical records, postoperative pathological results, complications due to surgery, and recurrence rate were evaluated. RESULTS: There were eight inverted papilloma, one ameloblastoma, and one ossifying fibroma in the EPMM group. In the CLA group, all 30 cases were inverted papilloma. There were no cases of failure at gross total removal during surgery, and no recurrences were observed during follow-up in either groups. Mean follow-up period was 13.0 months in CLA group and 10.8 months in EPMM group. Regarding postoperative complications, 11 patients of the CLA group (37%) and three patients of the EPMM group (30%) had numbness around the cheek and upper lip area after surgery (P=0.715). In the CLA group, there were eight patients who had numbness lasting more than 3 months after surgery, and two patients had numbness for more than 1 year. However, facial numbness disappeared within 3 months in all patients in the EPMM group, in which epiphora was not observed. CONCLUSION: EPMM is the effective surgical approach for resecting benign maxillary sinus tumor compared with CLA. Although facial numbness was reported in EPMM, the duration of numbness was shorter than CLA.

Toxicity bioassay and sub-lethal effects of diazinon on blood profile and histology of liver, gills and kidney of catfish, Clarias gariepinus

Abstract The catfish, Clarias gariepinus, was exposed to different acute concentrations (5-10 mg/l) of diazinon and the Lc50 value was recorded as high as 7.3 mg/l for 96 hours. The fishes exposed to three sub-lethal levels of diazinon (0.73, 1.095 and 1.46 mg/l) for 30 days showed that the pesticide induces changes in different blood parameters. Number of red blood cells (RBC), haemoglobin level and haematocrit values were elevated whereas white blood cells (WBC) count was reduced. Various blood indices like mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular haemoglobine (MCH) and mean corpuscular haemoglobine concentration (MCHC) vary insignificantly in the fish treated with diazinon. Glucose level and activity level of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) was increased in Clarias gariepinus exposed to diazinon. Protein level in plasma of fish treated with pesticide was changed but the change was insignificant. Histological changes in the liver, gills and kidney of fishes exposed to diazinon were apparent when compared to control. Hepatocytes necrosis and bleeding were more distinct in the fishes exposed to pesticide. Glomerulus hypertrophy and bleeding in kidneys; and fusion and degeneration of secondary lamellae and epithelial hyperplasia in gills were also observed in the exposed fish.

Resumo O peixe-gato, Clarias gariepinus, foi exposto a diferentes concentrações agudas (5-10 mg / l) de diazinon e o valor de Lc50 foi registrado tão alto quanto 7,3 mg / l por 96 horas. Os peixes expostos a três níveis sub-letais de diazinon (0,73, 1,095 e 1,46 mg / l) por 30 dias mostraram que o pesticida induz mudanças nos diferentes parâmetros sanguíneos. O número de glóbulos vermelhos, o nível de hemoglobina e os valores do hematócrito foram elevados, enquanto a contagem de leucócitos foi reduzida. Vários índices sanguíneos, como volume corpuscular médio (VCM), hemoglobina corpuscular média (HCM) e concentração de hemoglobina corpuscular média (CHCM) variam insignificantemente nos peixes tratados com diazinon. Nível de glicose e nível de atividade de AST e ALT foi aumentado em Clarias gariepinus expostos a diazinon. O nível de proteína no plasma de peixes tratados com pesticidas foi alterado, mas a mudança foi insignificante. Alterações histológicas no fígado, brânquias e rins de peixes expostos ao diazinon foram aparentes quando comparados ao controle. A necrose e o sangramento de hepatócitos foram mais distintos nos peixes expostos ao agrotóxico. Hipertrofia do glomérulo e sangramento nos rins; e fusão e degeneração de lamelas secundárias e hiperplasia epitelial em brânquias também foram observadas nos peixes expostos.

Phytochemical analysis and biological activities of ethanolic extract of Curcuma longa rhizome

Abstract Curcuma longa is an important dietary plant which possess several pharmacological activities, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflamatory, anticancer and anti clotting etc. The aim of the present study was to determine the phenolic profile of Curcuma longa and in vitro antioxidant and antidiabetic activities. In HPLC chromatogram of Curcuma longa rhizome extract 15 phenolic compounds were identified namely Digalloyl-hexoside, Caffeic acid hexoside, Curdione, Coumaric, Caffeic acid, Sinapic acid, Qurecetin-3-D-galactoside, Casuarinin, Bisdemethoxycurcumin, Curcuminol, Demethoxycurcumin, and Isorhamnetin, Valoneic acid bilactone, Curcumin, Curcumin-O-glucuronide respectively. The ethanolic extract displayed an IC50 value of 37.1±0.3 µg/ml against alpha glucosidase. The IC50 value of DPPH radical scavenging activity was 27.2 ± 1.1 g/mL. It is concluded that ethanolic extract of Curcuma long is rich source of curcumin and contain several important phenolics. The in vitro antioxidant and alpha glucosidase inhibitory effect of the plant justifies its popular use in traditional medicine.

Resumo A Curcuma longa é uma importante planta presente na dieta da população, pois possui diversas atividades farmacológicas, incluindo antioxidante, antimicrobiana, anti-inflamatória, anticancerígena, anticoagulante etc. O objetivo do presente estudo foi elucidar o perfil fenólico da Curcuma longa e determinar as atividades antioxidante e antidiabética in vitro do extrato. No cromatograma por HPLC do extrato de rizoma de Curcuma longa, foram identificados 15 compostos fenólicos: digaloil-hexosídeo, hexosídeo de ácido cafeico, curdiona, cumárico, ácido cafeico, ácido sinápico, quercetina-3-D-galactosídeo, casuarinina, bisdemetoxicurcumina, curcuminol, demetoxicurcumina, isoramnetina, bilactona de ácido valônico, curcumina e curcumina-O-glicuronídeo. O extrato etanólico apresentou um valor de IC50 de 37,1 ± 0,3 µg / mL em relação à alfa-glucosidase. O valor de IC50 da atividade de eliminação de radicais DPPH foi de 27,2 ± 1,1 g / mL. Conclui-se que o extrato etanólico de Curcuma longa é uma rica fonte de curcumina e contém várias substâncias fenólicas importantes. O efeito antioxidante in vitro e inibidor da alfa-glucosidase da planta justifica seu uso popular na medicina tradicional.

Parasitic prevalence in bat fauna captured from selected sites in northwestern Pakistan

Abstract Present study was conducted to record ecotoparasitic prevalence in bat fauna of the northwestern parts of Pakistan. A total of 204 bat specimens representing 14 species were captured during a two year survey, extending from June 2015 through May 2016. A species of soft ticks Argas vespertilionis was identified from 23 bat specimens. Similarly, members of the family Dermanyssoidae (dermanyssoid mites) were isolated from 10 bat specimens, that of Spinturnicidae (spinturnicid mites) from 3 and Streblidae (bat flies) from 2 bat specimens. These parasites were collected using entomological tweezers and were identified on morphological basis. Further studies on parasitic prevalence, molecular characterization of bat parasites and their control measures are recommended.

Resumo O presente estudo foi realizado para registrar a prevalência de ectoparasitas na fauna de morcegos em partes do noroeste do Paquistão. Um total de 204 espécimes de morcegos, representando 14 espécies, foi capturado durante uma pesquisa de dois anos, de junho de 2015 a maio de 2016. A espécie de carrapato Argas vespertilionis foi identificada em 23 espécimes de morcegos. Da mesma forma, os membros da família Dermanyssidae (ácaros dermanyssoid) foram isolados de 10 espécimes de morcego, os da Spinturnicidae (ácaros spinturnicid), de 3, e os da Streblidae (mosca de morcego), de 2 espécimes de morcego. Esses parasitas foram coletados com pinça entomológica e identificados com base morfológica. Estudos adicionais sobre prevalência parasitária, caracterização molecular de parasitas de morcego e suas medidas de controle devem ser realizados.