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1.
Braz J Biol ; 84: e288892, 2025.
Artigo em Inglês | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39907341

RESUMO

The local communities in Pakistan's remote mountainous regions possess a unique and rich treasure trove of ethnoveterinary knowledge regarding an indigenous medicinal plant that has been passed down through generations for centuries. In these hilly areas, where basic facilities are lacking, residents primarily depend on local plants to treat various veterinary health issues. The aim of our research is to chronicle, explore, and quantitatively assess ethnoveterinary knowledge. The current study documents the use of ethnoveterinary plant medicine for curing different animal ailments. The majority of animal diseases are treated with local herbal medicines extracted from plants. To identify traditional remedies, the survey and information were collected from locals and farmers. Ethnoveterinary information was obtained through semi-structured interviews with 133 informants who were randomly selected from 17 villages, and the data were interpreted using various ethnobotanical indices. Altogether, 41 livestock ailments were documented, and it was concluded that ailments like digestive disorders, mouth and foot diseases, milk deficiency, diarrhea, worm infestation, skin disorders, wound healing, placenta retention, carminatives, and anti-lice are the most prevalent. Eighty-three plants from 36 families, including one species of pteridophyte and gymnosperm and 81 species of angiosperm, were identified for animal health care. Most frequently, plant parts used for ethnoveterinary medicine are leaves (56.8%), shoots (15.9%), fruit (8.87%), seed (8.87%), bark (2.95%), whole plant (2.95%), latex (1.77%), and root (1%). The most common administration is oral, followed by dermal. The inhabitants use leaves, fruits, seeds, shoots, and bark to prepare various oral and topical remedies. The plant species ranked highest in terms of RFC values were Mentha longifolia (0.76), Ajuga bracteosa (0.64), Carthamus oxyacantha (0.53), Brassica campestris (0.46), and Sonchus asper (0.42). Species with the highest use values include Ajuga bracteosa (1.03), Mentha longifolia (0.85), Brassica campestris (0.71), Carthamus oxycantha (0.54), and Sonchus asper (0.51). A high ICF was noted for digestive disorders (0.45), followed by lactation issues (0.41) and dermatological conditions (0.29). Given the enormous potential for popularizing local herbal remedies in the study area, this research underlines the critical need for further investigations to ensure a sustainable and safe utilization of these herbal drugs.


Assuntos
Medicina Tradicional , Fitoterapia , Plantas Medicinais , Paquistão , Humanos , Plantas Medicinais/química , Plantas Medicinais/classificação , Feminino , Masculino , Animais , Adulto , Pessoa de Meia-Idade , Etnobotânica , Conhecimentos, Atitudes e Prática em Saúde , Idoso , Adulto Jovem , Doenças dos Animais/tratamento farmacológico , Medicina Veterinária
2.
Braz J Biol ; 84: e284742, 2025.
Artigo em Inglês | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39879501

RESUMO

Leishmaniasis, caused by the Leishmania parasite, remains a persistent public health challenge in Pakistan. Despite control efforts, the disease prevalence continues to rise, particularly among pediatric populations. Understanding prevalence patterns and transmission dynamics is critical for effective control strategies. This study aims to analyze leishmaniasis prevalence data from January 2016 to July 2023 in Pakistan. Specific objectives include assessing temporal trends, demographic patterns, and geographical hotspots of transmission, while emphasizing the need for enhanced surveillance and research for targeted interventions. Retrospective analysis was conducted on leishmaniasis prevalence data collected from multiple healthcare facilities across Pakistan. Data included results from diagnostic tests on suspected cases, encompassing both pediatric and adult patients. Descriptive statistical analysis was employed to evaluate prevalence rates, demographic characteristics, and geographical distribution of positive cases. Analysis revealed an increasing trend in leishmaniasis prevalence over the study period. Initially, from 2016 to 2020, a positivity rate of 27% was observed exclusively among pediatric patients in Islamabad, with no adult cases. Subsequently, from 2017 to 2022, the positivity rate increased to 42%, affecting both pediatric and adult populations in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Swat. Notably, between July 2022 and July 2023, the positivity rate surged to 56%, primarily impacting adult males in the identified hotspots. The study provides evidence of rising leishmaniasis prevalence in Pakistan, particularly among pediatric patients. Identified hotspots suggest localized transmission, warranting targeted interventions. Enhanced surveillance and research efforts are crucial for understanding disease dynamics and implementing effective control measures. Priority should be given to vulnerable populations and high-burden regions to mitigate leishmaniasis impact in Pakistan.


Assuntos
Leishmaniose , Humanos , Paquistão/epidemiologia , Prevalência , Masculino , Feminino , Criança , Estudos Retrospectivos , Adulto , Adolescente , Pré-Escolar , Leishmaniose/epidemiologia , Adulto Jovem , Pessoa de Meia-Idade , Lactente
3.
Braz J Biol ; 84: e284453, 2025.
Artigo em Inglês | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39879500

RESUMO

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) presents a significant global health concern, affecting 3.3% of the world's population. The primary mode of HCV transmission is through blood and blood products. Patients with beta thalassemia, who rely on lifelong blood transfusions, are particularly vulnerable to HCV infections. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of hepatitis C virus infections among multitransfused thalassemic patients in the twin cities of Pakistan's capital. The clinical research, involving the enrollment of 262 multitransfused beta thalassemic patients residing in the capital twin cities of Pakistan. The investigation encompassed the evaluation of hepatitis C virus presence, alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels, serum creatinine, hepatomegaly, splenomegaly, and the occurrence of splenectomy. The overall prevalence of Hepatitis C virus infections was notably high at 55.73%. This was particularly pronounced among patients aged 20 years and older, with a 100% infection rate. In HCV-positive thalassemic patients, the average ALT level was observed to be 98 U/L, while average creatinine values stood at 0.39 mg/dL. Additionally, hepatomegaly was prevalent in 82.20% of HCV-positive thalassemic patients, featuring an average liver size increase of 4.33 cm. Splenomegaly was evident in 67.12% of HCV-positive thalassemic patients, with an average spleen size augmentation of 4.46 cm. Splenectomy was identified in 15.75% of cases. The incidence of HCV infections in the thalassemic population of Pakistan is alarmingly high. Furthermore, the risk of contracting HCV infections escalates with the advancing age of thalassemic patients. Elevated ALT levels and hepatomegaly were pervasive among the majority of HCV-positive thalassemic patients. Consequently, there is a compelling need for rigorous screening of blood products prior to transfusion to mitigate the future burden of HCV in Pakistan.


Assuntos
Alanina Transaminase , Hepatite C , Humanos , Paquistão/epidemiologia , Hepatite C/epidemiologia , Masculino , Feminino , Prevalência , Adulto , Adulto Jovem , Alanina Transaminase/sangue , Adolescente , Criança , Pessoa de Meia-Idade , Talassemia beta/epidemiologia , Talassemia beta/complicações , Hepacivirus/isolamento & purificação , Esplenomegalia/epidemiologia , Esplenomegalia/etiologia , Creatinina/sangue , Pré-Escolar , Reação Transfusional/epidemiologia , Hepatomegalia/epidemiologia , Hepatomegalia/etiologia
4.
Gates Open Res ; 8: 94, 2024.
Artigo em Inglês | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39429544

RESUMO

Maternal immunization is a critical strategy to prevent both maternal and infant morbidity and mortality from several infectious diseases. When the first COVID-19 vaccines became available during the pandemic, there was mixed messaging and confusion amongst the broader public and among those associated with health care systems about the recommendations for COVID-19 vaccinations in pregnancy in many countries. A multi-country, mixed-methods study is being undertaken to describe how vaccine decision-making occurs amongst pregnant and postpartum women, with a focus on COVID-19 vaccines. The study is being conducted in Brazil, Ghana, Kenya, and Pakistan. In each country, participants are being recruited from either 2 or 3 maternity hospitals and/or clinics that represent a diverse population in terms of socio-economic and urban/rural status. Data collection includes cross-sectional surveys in pregnant women and semi-structured in-depth interviews with both pregnant and postpartum women. The instruments were designed to identify attitudinal, behavioral, and social correlates of vaccine uptake during and after pregnancy, including the decision-making process related to COVID-19 vaccines, and constructs such as risk perception, self-efficacy, vaccine intentions, and social norms. The aim is to recruit 400 participants for the survey and 50 for the interviews in each country. Qualitative data will be analyzed using a grounded theory approach. Quantitative data will be analyzed using descriptive statistics, latent variable analysis, and prediction modelling. Both the quantitative and qualitative data will be used to explore differences in attitudes and behaviors around maternal immunization across pregnancy trimesters and the postpartum period among and within countries. Each country has planned dissemination activities to share the study findings with relevant stakeholders in the communities from which the data is collected and to conduct country-specific secondary analyses.


Assuntos
Vacinas contra COVID-19 , COVID-19 , Tomada de Decisões , Humanos , Feminino , Gravidez , Estudos Transversais , Gana , Quênia/epidemiologia , COVID-19/prevenção & controle , COVID-19/epidemiologia , Vacinas contra COVID-19/administração & dosagem , Brasil/epidemiologia , Paquistão , SARS-CoV-2/imunologia , Adulto , Vacinação/psicologia , Vacinação/estatística & dados numéricos , Complicações Infecciosas na Gravidez/prevenção & controle
5.
An Acad Bras Cienc ; 96(4): e20231241, 2024.
Artigo em Inglês | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39383348

RESUMO

The present study was carried out to investigate the palynoflora of Murree formation using microscopic techniques to understand the climatic changes and vegetation's evolution. In this palynological study, 31 samples were collected, analyzed, and then identified as palynomorphs using different previous published literature. The results of this study will be described in terms of the evolutionary history of plants and the depositional environment of the reported taxa in the study area. The botanical affinities and systematic description of the taxa were examined using light and scanning electron microscopy. The floral record identified Asteraceae as the dominant family and Pinus as a genus. Most of angiosperms i.e Fabaceae and Poaceae, have a poor fossil record but have an abundant palynological record in the study area. The highest polar diameter (75.75 µm), colpus length (34.5 µm) and colpus width (31 µm) were examined for the Convolvulus. Most of the taxa explained here had a wide geographical occurrence in Southeast Asia and show the abundance of angiosperms in the Miocene epoch. The palynological record of Holocene samples is important to know about the vegetation's origin and environmental fluctuations in the study area.


Assuntos
Fósseis , Sedimentos Geológicos , Microscopia Eletrônica de Varredura , Sedimentos Geológicos/análise , Paquistão , Paleontologia , Mudança Climática
6.
Braz J Biol ; 84: e282008, 2024.
Artigo em Inglês | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39383363

RESUMO

Global access to clean and safe drinking water remains a formidable challenge, contributing to a myriad of health issues. This research exposes the existence of waterborne parasites in seemingly pristine spring waters, indicating potential contamination. Daily extensive sampling of Seventeen water sources was conducted in the untarnished freshwater streams of Tehsil Babuzai, District Swat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, from February to September 2021. Employing a stringent filtration process, the collected samples were effectively concentrated to detect any waterborne parasites. Subsequent application of the wet mount technique, combined with the capabilities of a compound microscope, revealed a disconcerting reality: all examined samples tested positive for various parasites. Identified parasites included Schistosoma species, Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichiuria trichiuria, Taenia saginata, Entamoeba histolytica, Amoeba, Lacrymana olor, Tintinnids, Paramecium, Dileptus, Euglena, Loxodes striatus, Acanthocyclops lynceus, Spondylosium, Oscillatoria, Cyanobacteria, Cilindros, Cilindros cerro, Commensal amoeba mature cysts,, Filliform larva of Strongyloides, Cercaria larva, Larva of Taenia solium, Egg of Enterobius vermiculais, Egg of Isospora belli, Egg of Tapeworm, Egg of Schistosoma species, Egg of Toxocara, and Egg of Diphyllobothrium latum. These findings clearly demonstrate the presence of a diverse array of parasites in the freshwater springs of Tehsil Babuzai, Swat, Pakistan. Implementing robust water treatment protocols, conducting regular monitoring and testing, and raising awareness about the risks of waterborne parasites are crucial steps to safeguard public health in the region.


Assuntos
Parasitos , Paquistão , Animais , Parasitos/classificação , Parasitos/isolamento & purificação , Monitoramento Ambiental/métodos , Estações do Ano , Água Doce/parasitologia , Biodiversidade , Nascentes Naturais/parasitologia
7.
Rev Bras Parasitol Vet ; 33(3): e007224, 2024.
Artigo em Inglês | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39383385

RESUMO

This study investigated the prevalence of gastrointestinal (GI) parasites in ruminants slaughtered at the abattoir in district Narowal, Punjab, Pakistan. The overall prevalence of parasitic infection was determined to be 72.92% based on faecal examination. Among the ruminant species, goats exhibited a significantly higher (P < 0.05) prevalence of parasitic infection (78.63%) compared to cattle, buffalo, and sheep. Additionally, female ruminants showed a significantly higher (P<0.05) prevalence of infection (85.62%) compared to males (65.13%). The intestines (both small and large) of small and large ruminants were found to be significantly more affected, with a prevalence of 39.58% of parasitic infection compared to other examined organs. A total of ten parasitic genera were identified in ruminants, including hydatid cysts. Ruminants with a high burden of parasites (45.74%) significantly outnumbered those with light (23.40%) and moderate (30.85%) burdens. Economically, the estimated annual losses in Pakistan due to organ condemnation with GI parasites were substantial, amounting to Pak. Rs. 405.09/- million (USD = 1,428,760). These findings underscore the significance of GI parasite infections as a major animal health concern and a cause of significant economic losses in the research area.


Assuntos
Matadouros , Enteropatias Parasitárias , Animais , Paquistão/epidemiologia , Enteropatias Parasitárias/veterinária , Enteropatias Parasitárias/epidemiologia , Enteropatias Parasitárias/diagnóstico , Enteropatias Parasitárias/economia , Masculino , Feminino , Prevalência , Gado/parasitologia , Bovinos , Ovinos , Cabras/parasitologia
8.
Braz J Biol ; 84: e282479, 2024.
Artigo em Inglês | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39230079

RESUMO

The phytosociological survey was conducted during 2018-2020. The research area was classified into five ecological zones based on habitat, physiognomy and species composition. Pc-Ord software was used for cluster analysis and four vegetation communities were established. The Quercus baloot-Quercus incana community is situated in Sair at an altitude of 1196 (mean ± SE) m altitude with a 14.1 ± 0 slope angle and contains eleven tree species. The Pinus wallichiana- Ailanthus altissima community had a relatively small number of tree species reported in Shakawlie at 1556 (mean ± SE) with a 17.5 ± 0 slope angle. The Pinus wallichiana- Quercus incana community is distributed in Wali Kandao and Mangi Kandao at altitudes of 2030.5 (mean ± SE) m and the slope angle was 19.2 ± 1.4. This community possesses a total of twenty-one tree species and is highly diverse. Similarly, the Populus alba - Platanus orientalis group was present in Banr Pate, with an altitude of 1613 (mean ± SE) m and a 16.3 slope angle. The principal component analysis (PCA) and non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMS) ordination methods were applied to study the relationships between ecological and soil variables with trees species. The NMS ordination of axis 1 was significantly correlated with Sand% (p<0.2), Nitrogen% (p<0.1) and Pb (mg/kg) (r= 0.876751, p<0.05), while the ordination of axis 2 was significantly correlated with Silt% (p<0.2), Sand% (p<0.2), Organic matter% (p<0.2), K (mg/kg) (r=0.882433, p<0.02), Fe (mg/kg)(r=0.614833, p<0.2), Ca (mg/kg) (r=0.721712, p< 0.2) and Zn (mg/kg) (r=0.609545, p<0.2). Similarly, the PCA ordination of axis 1 revealed that it was significantly correlated with phosphorus, calcium and slope angle, while that of axis 2 was significantly correlated with altitude, zinc and manganese.


Assuntos
Florestas , Árvores , Árvores/classificação , Paquistão , Biodiversidade , Altitude , Ecossistema , Solo/química
9.
Braz J Biol ; 84: e283767, 2024.
Artigo em Inglês | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39230083

RESUMO

Spider species are important for maintaining ecological balance, controlling insect populations, and providing potential sources of medicinal compounds. Highlighting the importance of spider species, the present study was aimed at exploring the diversity of spider fauna and species richness in various habitats in District Mardan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, from March 2021 to December 2021. Spiders were collected through different methods: pitfall traps, cryptic searching, ground hand collection, aerial hand collection, and vegetation beating. Then, the captured spiders were washed in alcohol and preserved in a combination of 80% alcohol and 20% glycerol for further observation. Identification was carried out with the help of available spider identification keys and literature. A total of 578 specimens representing 29 species from 17 families and 26 genera were collected and identified. Family Lycosidae was the most dominant family (13.49%), followed by Salticidae (10.2%), Araneidae (8.47%), Tetragnathidae (7.61%), Pholicidae (6.4%), Oxyopidae (5.88%), Thomisidae (5.7%), Clubionidae (5.53%), Sicariidae (5.19%), Scytodidae (5.01%), Corinnidae (4.67%), Agelenidae (4.32%), Cheiracanthiidae and Sparassidae (4.15%), Oecobiidae and Hersiliidae (3.97%) and Theridiidae was the rarest among all (1.21%). The most commonly identified species are Hippasa partita, Lycosa poonaesis, Lycosa terrestris, Draposa oakleyi, Plexippus paykulli, Menemerus nigli, Thyene imperialis, Thyene bivittate and Hasarius adansoni. Argiope versicolor, Neoscona theisi, Tetragnatha extensa, Crossopriza lyoni, and Oxyopes Javanus. During the present study, it was observed that spider species were abundantly found in warm areas from May to August, which demonstrates that the spider fauna of the study area is very rich but has yet to be explored.


Assuntos
Biodiversidade , Ecossistema , Aranhas , Animais , Paquistão , Aranhas/classificação , Estações do Ano , Masculino , Densidade Demográfica , Feminino , Distribuição Animal
10.
Dental Press J Orthod ; 29(4): e242443, 2024.
Artigo em Inglês | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39230113

RESUMO

INTRODUCTION: Shared decision making (SDM) involves presenting patients with relevant information about a health issue and reaching a clinical decision based on their preferences. However, its application in orthodontics lacks documentation. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess and compare the perspectives of patients and clinicians on SDM in different cases. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital in Pakistan, involving 90 patients categorized into three groups (dentofacial orthopedics, orthognathic surgery, and conventional non-surgical fixed appliance treatment). Following clinical assessment and treatment plan discussions, patients and clinicians completed a 12-item dyadic observing patient involvement in decision making (OPTION) questionnaire, to gauge their perspectives on SDM. Mean OPTION scale scores were compared using paired sample t-tests between clinicians and patients, and intergroup comparisons utilized paired sample t-tests and Pearson correlation coefficients. RESULTS: OPTION scores were similar between patients/parents and clinicians. However, statistically significant differences were found regarding the questions about "different sources of information", "different options (including the possibility of doing nothing)" and "concerns regarding management", with the patients giving overall lower OPTION scores. Patients gave lower SDM OPTION scores for conventional orthodontic treatment, but higher scores for orthopedic and orthognathic surgery, as compared to the clinicians. CONCLUSIONS: The current study revealed an overall consensus in the mean total scores of OPTION scales between patients and clinicians. However, when stratified, patients showed higher SDM scores for orthopedic and orthognathic cases, and lower scores for conventional orthodontic treatment.


Assuntos
Tomada de Decisão Compartilhada , Procedimentos Cirúrgicos Ortognáticos , Humanos , Estudos Transversais , Paquistão , Masculino , Feminino , Inquéritos e Questionários , Adulto , Participação do Paciente , Aparelhos Ortodônticos Fixos , Adolescente , Cirurgia Ortognática , Adulto Jovem , Atitude do Pessoal de Saúde
11.
Braz J Biol ; 84: e286429, 2024.
Artigo em Inglês | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39292143

RESUMO

This study was carried out to analyze the fatty acid and amino acid compositions of three economically important freshwater fish species, Mali (Wallago attu), Raho (Labeo rohita), and Mahseer (Tor putitora), indigenous to Indus River, Pakistan.. Amino acid profiling was done by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) while gas chromatography (GC) was used for fatty acid analysis. Glutamic acid, aspartic acid, arginine, alanine, leucine, lysine and isoleucine were the most predominant amino acid while palmitic acid (C16:0), oleic acid (C18:1c), palmitoliec acid (C16:1c), linolenic acids (C18:2c) and docosahexaenoic acids (DHA C22:6) were the notable fatty acids present in these species. Our results indicated that all species have comparable nutritional composition and are good source of healthy human diet. Our findings will help the people to make informed choice while selecting fish for consumption and will pave the way for future researchers in planning new strategies to enhance the growth and production of commercial fish species. It will also be helpful for theFrom the current finding it was concluded that all fish species under discussion are rich in amino acids and fatty acids. These species contain essential amino acids and important fatty acid such as omega3 and omega 6, thus raising the nutritional quality of these species.


Assuntos
Aminoácidos , Ácidos Graxos , Rios , Animais , Aminoácidos/análise , Ácidos Graxos/análise , Paquistão , Rios/química , Cromatografia Gasosa , Cromatografia Líquida de Alta Pressão , Peixes/classificação , Cyprinidae/classificação
12.
Braz J Biol ; 84: e280449, 2024.
Artigo em Inglês | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39319976

RESUMO

We studied the distribution and population status of the Cheer pheasant (Catreus wallichii) in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJ&K). Study was mainly conducted in four localities Jhelum Valley (JV), Machiara National Park (MNP), Haveli and Nar Sher Ali Khan (NSAK) from 2016-2020, for five breeding seasons. Population status of Cheer pheasant was determined by the call counts method. In total 105 breeding pairs (210 birds) were estimated highest (134) being recorded from Jhelum valley followed by MNP, Haveli and Nar Sher Ali Khan While applying correction factor 158 birds were recorded. Extensive surveys were carried out in an area of 19.23 km2. Our results indicate an expansion in distribution ranges of Cheer pheasant and population has established in several new sites. Highest Mean population density of 6.11pair/km2 was recorded in Qazi Nag area of Jhelum Valley. The mean population density of Cheer pheasant was slightly higher in the month of May. Furthermore, 58% of the calling birds were detected at elevations ranging from 2300-2600m, while 17% were found at elevations between 1900-2200m. Expansion in distribution ranges of Cheer might be due to reason that bird might have been underestimated in the past or conservation measures and community awareness programs taken by the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, AJ&K.


Assuntos
Galliformes , Densidade Demográfica , Estações do Ano , Animais , Galliformes/classificação , Paquistão , Feminino , Masculino , Distribuição Animal , Dinâmica Populacional
13.
Braz J Biol ; 84: e281700, 2024.
Artigo em Inglês | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39140503

RESUMO

Human activities are altering the existing patterns of Land Use Land Cover (LULC) and Land Surface Temperature (LST) on a global scale. However, long-term trends of LULC and LST are largely unknown in many remote mountain areas such as the Karakorum. . The objective of our study therefore was to evaluate the historical changes in land use and land cover (LULC) in an alpine environment located in Islamabad Capital Territory, Pakistan. We used Landsat satellite pictures (namely Landsat 5 TM and Landsat 8 OLI) from the years 1988, 2002, and 2016 and applied the Maximum Likelihood Classification (MLC) approach to categorize land use classes. Land Surface Temperatures (LST) were calculated using the thermal bands (6, 10, and 11) of Landsat series data. The correlation between the Human Modification Index (HMI) and LULC as well as LST was evaluated by utilizing data from Google Earth Engine (GEE). Over the study period, the urbanized area increased by 9.94%, whilst the agricultural and bare soil areas decreased by 3.81% and 3.94%, respectively. The findings revealed a significant change in the LULC with a decrease of 1.99% in vegetation. The highest LST class exhibited a progressive trend, with an increase from 12.27% to 48.48%. Based on the LST analysis, the built-up area shows the highest temperature, followed by the barren, agricultural, and vegetation categories. Similarly, the HMI for different LST categories indicates that higher LST categories have higher levels of human alteration compared to lower LST categories, with a strong correlation (R-value = 0.61) between HMI and LST. The findings can be utilized to promote sustainable urban management and for biodiversity conservation efforts. The work also has the potential of utilizing it to protect delicate ecosystems from human interference and to formulate strategies and regulations for sustainable urban growth, including aspects of land utilization and zoning, reduction of urban heat stress, and urban infrastructure.


Assuntos
Temperatura , Paquistão , Humanos , Agricultura , Monitoramento Ambiental/métodos , Urbanização , Atividades Humanas , Imagens de Satélites
14.
Braz J Biol ; 84: e284361, 2024.
Artigo em Inglês | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39140507

RESUMO

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is a global health concern, with diagnostic modalities and risk factors that exhibit regional variations. This study, conducted at the Islamabad Diagnostic Center, Pakistan, aimed to provide a comprehensive assessment of CAD prevalence, severity, and associated risk factors, while also evaluating the diagnostic accuracy of Computed Tomography Coronary Test (CTT) and Exercise Treadmill Test (ETT) in a cohort of 2909 patients. Among the patients assessed via CT Coronary scans, CAD was universally observed, presenting with varying degrees of severity. Our findings indicated that 24.5% of patients had mild CAD, 28.6% exhibited mild to moderate CAD, 16.3% were diagnosed with moderate CAD, 18.4% demonstrated moderate to severe CAD, and 20.4% displayed severe CAD. This spectrum underscores the diverse nature of CAD within the study population. In addition to CTT, we conducted a detailed evaluation of ETT results in 49 patients. These results revealed that 55.1% of patients tested positive for ischemia during the exercise test, emphasizing the prevalence of cardiac stress and underlying CAD. Conversely, 32.7% of patients exhibited negative ETT results, indicating favorable cardiac tolerance during physical activity. A subset of patients yielded non-diagnostic or inconclusive results, necessitating further clinical assessment. Disease history analysis showed a dichotomy within the cohort, with 20.4% having a known medical history and 79.6% possessing an unknown disease history, highlighting the importance of comprehensive medical records in clinical practice. Hypertension, a critical cardiovascular risk factor, was identified in 87.8% of patients, underscoring its significance. Smoking history displayed notable variation, with 69.4% categorized as smokers, 14.3% as ex-smokers, and 10.2% as non-smokers. Lipid profile analysis indicated that 69.4% of patients had abnormal lipid levels. To assess the diagnostic accuracy of CTT and ETT, we calculated Positive Predictive Values (PPV) and Negative Predictive Values (NPV). CTT exhibited a PPV of approximately 5.99% and an NPV of approximately 4.40%, whereas ETT displayed a higher PPV of around 26.44% and a substantially higher NPV of about 49.24%. This study offers valuable insights into CAD prevalence, severity, and associated risk factors in a Pakistani cohort, emphasizing the importance of holistic risk assessment and tailored interventions in clinical practice. Our findings also highlight the diagnostic utility of ETT in CAD assessment.


Assuntos
Doença da Artéria Coronariana , Teste de Esforço , Humanos , Teste de Esforço/métodos , Doença da Artéria Coronariana/diagnóstico por imagem , Doença da Artéria Coronariana/diagnóstico , Paquistão/epidemiologia , Masculino , Feminino , Pessoa de Meia-Idade , Adulto , Fatores de Risco , Idoso , Prevalência , Índice de Gravidade de Doença , Tomografia Computadorizada por Raios X , Angiografia Coronária
15.
Braz J Biol ; 84: e271452, 2024.
Artigo em Inglês | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38985057

RESUMO

SARS-CoV-2 is recently emerged virus, which caused millions of deaths, all over the world. To tackle COVID-19 pandemic, there is an utmost need for in-depth analysis of viral replication. We aimed to examine viral load in SARS-CoV-2 patients during first two waves of COVID-19 in Pakistan. 225,615 suspected subjects from 75 different regions of Pakistan were selected in the study. SARS-CoV-2 RNAs were detected via real time PCR. During first wave (period of June-July, 2020) of COVID-19 the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 was 20.38%. However, during second wave (period of November-December, 2020) of COVID-19, the rate of prevalence was 9.41%. During first wave of COVID-19 96.31% of participants remained PCR positive for 14 to 21 days, 3.39% of subjects showed positive results for 22 to 35 days, while delayed Ct values were observed among 0.26% of participants for 36 to 49 days. However, during second wave of COVID-19 89.31% of the subjects exhibited symptoms and showed real-time PCR positive results for 14 to 21 days, 9.42% showed positive results for 22 to 35 days, while significantly delayed Ct value results were observed among 1.026% of participants for 36 to 63 days (3.95 times higher than first wave). In contrast to first wave of COVID-19, the factors that were different in second wave were neither viral (different strains) nor host (same population). But treatment factors changed significantly. As during second wave besides azithromycin, corticosteroid dexamethasone consumption was increased consequently causing delayed Ct value negativity. This suggests that corticosteroid treatment might be linked with delayed Ct value or viral clearance. This study is crucial for re-considering effective therapeutic options against COVID-19.


Assuntos
COVID-19 , SARS-CoV-2 , Carga Viral , Humanos , Paquistão/epidemiologia , Carga Viral/efeitos dos fármacos , Masculino , Feminino , Tratamento Farmacológico da COVID-19 , Adulto , RNA Viral/análise , Pessoa de Meia-Idade , Fatores de Tempo , Corticosteroides/uso terapêutico , Adulto Jovem , Pandemias , Adolescente , Reação em Cadeia da Polimerase em Tempo Real , Teste de Ácido Nucleico para COVID-19
16.
Braz J Microbiol ; 55(3): 2569-2579, 2024 Sep.
Artigo em Inglês | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38980650

RESUMO

Candida species are amongst the commensals of the mucosal surfaces of the human body which include the oral cavity, vagina, and intestinal mucosa. Fungal infections are on the rise worldwide. The overall burden of infections due to fungi is difficult to estimate because the majority of them remain undiagnosed. The present study aims to determine the burden of antifungal resistance in low socioeconomic country, Pakistan and the frequency of ERG11 and MDR1 genes involved. A total of 636 Candida isolates were obtained from various tertiary care institutions in Lahore in the form of culture on various culture plates. Sabouraud agar culture plates were used to culture the Candida spp. Antifungal resistance was determined against Fluconazole, Itraconazole, Ketoconazole, and Nystatin via disk diffusion technique. Most resistance was observed against Fluconazole followed by Itraconazole, Ketoconazole, and Nystatin. The Candida isolates recovering from CVP tip and tissue have a high resistance profile. Candida species resistant to at least two antifungals were chosen for further ERG11 and MDR1 detection through real-time PCR. Among 255 Candida isolates, 240 contained ERG11 gene while MDR1 gene is present in 149 Candida isolates. The isolates carrying both genes were tested by the broth microdilution technique for the susceptibility against cycloheximide, all of them were able to grow in cycloheximide. The genetic determinants of antifungal resistance such as ERG11 and MDR1 are as important in the multidrug resistance against a variety of compounds and antifungal drugs.


Assuntos
Antifúngicos , Candida , Cicloeximida , Testes de Sensibilidade Microbiana , Antifúngicos/farmacologia , Humanos , Candida/efeitos dos fármacos , Candida/genética , Candida/classificação , Candida/isolamento & purificação , Cicloeximida/farmacologia , Paquistão , Candidíase/microbiologia , Proteínas Fúngicas/genética , Proteínas Fúngicas/metabolismo , Farmacorresistência Fúngica Múltipla/genética , Subfamília B de Transportador de Cassetes de Ligação de ATP/genética , Subfamília B de Transportador de Cassetes de Ligação de ATP/metabolismo
17.
Adm Policy Ment Health ; 51(5): 753-768, 2024 Sep.
Artigo em Inglês | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38907740

RESUMO

Research demonstrates that young people value mental health support that is tailored to their needs and preferences, rather than a "one size fits all" offer, which is often not equitably accessible (National Children's Bureau, 2021). Understanding young people's lived experiences across different sociocultural contexts is important. The aim of this research was to conduct an international qualitative study on the views of young people with lived experience and professionals, on proposed aspects of personalised support for anxiety and/or depression. Participatory action focus groups were conducted with N = 120 young people with lived experience of anxiety and/or depression (14-24 years) and with N = 63 professionals in Brazil, India, Kenya, Pakistan, Portugal, South Africa, Turkey, and the United Kingdom. Data were analysed using the rigorous and accelerated data reduction (RADaR) technique. Overall, although some country-specific differences were found in terms of what aspects of support young people found to be most important, individual preferences were considered stronger, furthering the view that support should be personalised to the needs of the individual young person. Young people experiencing anxiety and/or depression should be able to choose for themselves which aspects of support they would prefer in their own care and support plans, with families and mental health professionals providing guidance where appropriate, rather than removing the young person from the decision-making process altogether. It should also be ensured that the aspects of personalised support can be understood by young people and professionals from different contexts, including marginalised and minoritised groups and communities.


Assuntos
Grupos Focais , Serviços de Saúde Mental , Pesquisa Qualitativa , Humanos , Adolescente , Masculino , Feminino , Serviços de Saúde Mental/organização & administração , Adulto Jovem , Ansiedade/psicologia , Depressão/psicologia , Quênia , Índia , Brasil , Reino Unido , África do Sul , Paquistão , Turquia , Portugal
18.
PLoS One ; 19(6): e0301638, 2024.
Artigo em Inglês | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38913670

RESUMO

BACKGROUND: Low-and-middle-income countries (LMICs) bear a disproportionate burden of communicable diseases. Social interaction data inform infectious disease models and disease prevention strategies. The variations in demographics and contact patterns across ages, cultures, and locations significantly impact infectious disease dynamics and pathogen transmission. LMICs lack sufficient social interaction data for infectious disease modeling. METHODS: To address this gap, we will collect qualitative and quantitative data from eight study sites (encompassing both rural and urban settings) across Guatemala, India, Pakistan, and Mozambique. We will conduct focus group discussions and cognitive interviews to assess the feasibility and acceptability of our data collection tools at each site. Thematic and rapid analyses will help to identify key themes and categories through coding, guiding the design of quantitative data collection tools (enrollment survey, contact diaries, exit survey, and wearable proximity sensors) and the implementation of study procedures. We will create three age-specific contact matrices (physical, nonphysical, and both) at each study site using data from standardized contact diaries to characterize the patterns of social mixing. Regression analysis will be conducted to identify key drivers of contacts. We will comprehensively profile the frequency, duration, and intensity of infants' interactions with household members using high resolution data from the proximity sensors and calculating infants' proximity score (fraction of time spent by each household member in proximity with the infant, over the total infant contact time) for each household member. DISCUSSION: Our qualitative data yielded insights into the perceptions and acceptability of contact diaries and wearable proximity sensors for collecting social mixing data in LMICs. The quantitative data will allow a more accurate representation of human interactions that lead to the transmission of pathogens through close contact in LMICs. Our findings will provide more appropriate social mixing data for parameterizing mathematical models of LMIC populations. Our study tools could be adapted for other studies.


Assuntos
Países em Desenvolvimento , Humanos , Moçambique , Guatemala/epidemiologia , Paquistão/epidemiologia , Índia/epidemiologia , Grupos Focais , Feminino , Lactente , Interação Social , Masculino , Doenças Transmissíveis/epidemiologia , Doenças Transmissíveis/transmissão , População Rural , Projetos de Pesquisa
19.
Braz J Biol ; 84: e283612, 2024.
Artigo em Inglês | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38836804

RESUMO

This study was designed to assess the ichthyofaunal diversity of River Panjkora, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. For this purpose, a total of 1189 fish from six different sites were collected along the river and identified using standard keys. The fish collected and identified were representing 38 species, belonging to 7 families. The investigation spanned a year, from July 2021 to May 2022. The most dominant family was Cyprinidae 76% (n=906/1189), followed by Nemacheilidae 5.8% (n=69/1189), Channidae 5.2% (n=62/1189), Sisoridae 5.1% (n=61/1189), Mastacembelidae 4.9% (n=58/1189), Salmonidae 2.6% (n=31/1189) and least was Bagridae 0.17 (n=2/1189). The most abundant speices was Schizothorax plagiostomus with relative density of 16.8. Family Cyprinidae was represented by 21 species, Sisoridae by 7 species, Nemacheilidae by 5 species, Channidae by 2 species, while Bagridae, Salmonidae and Mastacembelidae, were each represented by a single species. PAST 3, XLSTAT and EXCEL 2019 were used for principal component analysis to study correlation of fish diversity and richness. Eigenvalue obtained from Kumrat to Busaq were 3.32, 1.01, 0.80, 0.44, 0.31 and 0.10 respectively. The higher value at Kumrat shows higher diversity. The water quality assessment showed average value of water temperature 10.4 ͦC, pH 7.0, electrical conductivity 184 mg/L, dissolved oxygen 7.9 mg/L, turbidity 43.73 mg/L, total dissolved solids 101 mg/L, total suspended solids 34.72 mg/L, total solids 135.53 mg/L, total alkalinity 75.77 mg/L, total hardness 58.37 mg/L, ammonia 0.46 mg/L, sulphate 26.03 mg/L, chloride 14.67 mg/L, calcium 69.11 mg/L, chromium 0.18 mg/L, copper 0.03, cobalt mg/L 0.04, nickel 0.039 mg/L, lead 0.02 mg/L and Zinc 0.35 mg/L. The findings of this study indicated that most of the physicochemical parameters remained within the acceptable limits throughout the study period. Analysis of fish gut contents included; nymphs, insect larvae, the presence of algae, protozoans and macroinvertebrates in the river ecosystem.


Assuntos
Biodiversidade , Peixes , Rios , Estações do Ano , Animais , Paquistão , Peixes/classificação , Densidade Demográfica , Monitoramento Ambiental/métodos
20.
Semin Oncol Nurs ; 40(3): 151631, 2024 Jun.
Artigo em Inglês | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38735785

RESUMO

OBJECTIVES: The implementation of pediatric oncology advanced practice nurse (s) roles in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) presents opportunities and challenges. The authors explore the implications of pediatric oncology advanced practice nursing roles in Pakistan, Cameroon, Turkey, and Mexico. Potential benefits and drawbacks of advanced practice nursing roles, impacts on nursing care, and strategies for advanced practice nursing role development in LMIC settings are considered. METHODS: Information from scholarly articles, policy documents, and four LMIC pediatric oncology nurse expert perspectives on existing and imagined advanced practice nursing roles in pediatric oncology in LMIC were synthesized. RESULTS: Current literature and policies point to efforts across LMICs to establish a wide variety of advanced nursing practices, not necessarily aligned with internationally accepted advanced practice nursing standards of practice or education. The LMIC nurses describe a wide range of national general nurse education and government advanced practice nurse recognition/licensing. Challenges to achieving or strengthening advanced practice nursing roles include, for example, healthcare professional resistance, government unwillingness to recognize/license advanced practice nurses, and lack of advanced practice nursing faculty. To promote a pediatric oncology advanced practice nursing role in LMICs requires navigating the national nursing scope of practice and nursing culture. CONCLUSION: The strategic introduction of pediatric oncology advanced practice nursing roles in LMICs has the potential to significantly enhance patient care by, for example, addressing healthcare workforce shortages and facilitating timely care delivery. However, challenges related to role complexity, resistance from traditional healthcare structures, and role overlap must be considered. Tailoring these roles to local contexts and fostering stakeholder collaboration are essential for successful implementation. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: The adoption of advanced practice nursing roles can lead to improved quality of care for pediatric oncology patients and their families in LMICs, where cancer care is challenging. The positive impact of pediatric oncology advanced practice nurses on patient outcomes and healthcare delivery cannot be discounted but must align with local nursing and healthcare culture and expectations.


Assuntos
Prática Avançada de Enfermagem , Países em Desenvolvimento , Papel do Profissional de Enfermagem , Enfermagem Oncológica , Enfermagem Pediátrica , Humanos , Enfermagem Oncológica/normas , Enfermagem Pediátrica/normas , Enfermagem Pediátrica/organização & administração , México , Paquistão , Turquia , Criança , Camarões , Feminino , Masculino , Neoplasias/enfermagem
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