Transition Metal-Substituted Krebs-Type Polyoxometalate-Doped PEDOT Films.

The transition metal-substituted Krebs-type polyoxometalates (POMs) [Sb2W20M2O70(H2O)6]n-, M = Fe(III), Co(II), or Cu(II), were surface immobilized within the conducting polymer 3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene (PEDOT) on glassy carbon electrode surfaces. The immobilized films of different thicknesses were characterized by electrochemical and surface-based techniques. The inherent redox activity for the Krebs-type POMs, [Sb2W20M2O70(H2O)6]n-, M = Fe(III), Co(II), or Cu(II), that were observed in the solution phase were maintained in the polymeric PEDOT matrix. The resulting films were found to be extremely stable toward redox switching between the various POM-based redox states. The films exhibited pH-dependent redox activity and thin layer behavior up to 100 mV s-1. The films were found to be highly conductive through the employment of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Surface characterization of the films was carried out by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy graph.

Comparative analysis of three prehospital emergency medical services organizations in India and Pakistan.

OBJECTIVES: Strengthened emergency medical services (EMS) are urgently required in South Asia to reduce needless death and disability. Several EMS models have been introduced in India and Pakistan, and research on these models can facilitate improvements to EMS in the region. Our objective was to conduct a cross-case comparative analysis of three EMS organizations in India and Pakistan - GVK EMRI, Aman Foundation and Rescue 1122 - in order to draw out similarities and differences in their models. STUDY DESIGN: Case study methodology was used to systematically explore the organizational models of GVK EMRI (Karnataka, India), Aman Foundation (Karachi, Pakistan), and Rescue 1122 (Punjab, Pakistan). METHODS: Qualitative methods - interviews, document review and non-participant observation - were utilized, and using a process of constant comparison, data were analysed across cases according to the WHO health system 'building blocks'. RESULTS: Emergent themes under each health system 'building block' of service delivery, health workforce, medical products and technology, health information systems, leadership and governance, and financing were described. Cross-cutting issues not applicable to any single building block were further identified. CONCLUSIONS: This cross-case comparison, the first of its kind in low- and middle-income countries, highlights key innovations and lessons, and areas of further research across EMS organizations in India, Pakistan and other resource-poor settings.

Suicide and attempted suicide trends in Mianwali, Pakistan: social perspective.

This study aimed to examine the epidemiology and potential causes of suicides and attempted suicide cases that were reported to Rescue 1122 Mianwali in Pakistan. The data were collected prospectively for 2011. One hundred and eight suicides were reported during the study period. Four (4%) victims were found dead at the scene and 104 (96%) were taken to hospital. There were 84(78%) men and 24(22%) women and 98 (90%) were aged 11-30 years. Toxic substances (36%), pesticides (31%) and drug overdose (11%) were the most common materials/methods used. Depression/mental illness (33%), socioeconomic conditions (24%) and unemployment (21%) were the major reasons for attempting suicide. Suicide is a sensitive and multifaceted problem that needs to be addressed in Pakistan.

Road traffic crashes in Ramadan: an observational study.

The aim of this study was to investigate trends in road traffic crashes (RTCs) managed by an emergency service, Rescue 1122, in 2011 in Punjab, Pakistan. RTC data were collected from 35 districts of Punjab and reviewed retrospectively. Data analysis revealed that the service responded to 12 969 RTC emergencies during August 2011 (Ramadan), compared with an average of 11 573 RTCs per month from January to August 2011. The younger age group (11-27 years) was victims in 29% of RTCs; 39% were due to speeding and 43% occurred in peak rush hours (14:00-18:00) before iftar (breakfast).Results of the study showed that Rescue 1122 faced more RTCs during Ramadan compared with the preceding months. Road safety is an important public health issue in Pakistan. Although there have been great improvements in roads in the past few years, much work needs to be done to deal with mounting trends in RTCs. Public awareness, political will and stringent law enforcement are key factors.

Drinking water quality of various sources in Peshawar, Mardan, Kohat and Swat districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Pakistan.

The present study involves the chemical and bacteriological analysis of water from different sources i.e., bore, wells, bottle, and tap, from Peshawar, Mardan, Swat and Kohat districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province, Pakistan. From each district, 50 water samples (10 samples from each source), regardless of urban and rural status, were collected from these sources and analysed for sulphates, nitrates, nitrites, chlorides, total soluble solids and coliforms (E. coli). Results indicated that majority of the water sources had unacceptable E. coli count i.e.> 34 CFU/100mL. E. coli positive samples were high in Mardan District, followed by Kohat, Swat and Peshawar district. Besides this, the some water sources were also chemically contaminated by different inorganic fertilizers (nitrates/nitrites of sodium, potassium) but under safe levels whereas agricultural and industrial wastes (chloride and sulphate compounds) were in unsafe range. Among all districts, the water quality was found comparatively more deteriorated in Kohat and Mardan districts than Peshawar and Swat districts. Such chemically and bacteriologically unfit water sources for drinking and can cause human health problems.

Cytomegalovirus pneumonia in an immunocompetent adult: a case report.

A 38 year-old woman, who was previously fit and well, presented with a 10 day history of fever and non-specific symptoms. Initial chest X-ray demonstrated patchy nodular infiltrates bilaterally. She became increasingly hypoxaemic. Cultures to this point were all negative. A high-resolution CT thorax showed diffuse multilobular ground glass appearance with peripheral nodular shadowing, consistent with a viral pneumonia. CMV IgM antibody was positive and CMV PCR was positive on two subsequent occasions. She was commenced on oral valganciclovir. She made a full recovery and was discharged seven days later.

Drinking water quality of various sources in Peshawar, Mardan, Kohat and Swat districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Pakistan / Qualidade de água potável de váris fontes dos distritos de Peshawar, Mardan, Kohat e Swat da província de Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Paquistão

Abstract The present study involves the chemical and bacteriological analysis of water from different sources i.e., bore, wells, bottle, and tap, from Peshawar, Mardan, Swat and Kohat districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province, Pakistan. From each district, 50 water samples (10 samples from each source), regardless of urban and rural status, were collected from these sources and analysed for sulphates, nitrates, nitrites, chlorides, total soluble solids and coliforms (E. coli). Results indicated that majority of the water sources had unacceptable E. coli count i.e.> 34 CFU/100mL. E. coli positive samples were high in Mardan District, followed by Kohat, Swat and Peshawar district. Besides this, the some water sources were also chemically contaminated by different inorganic fertilizers (nitrates/nitrites of sodium, potassium) but under safe levels whereas agricultural and industrial wastes (chloride and sulphate compounds) were in unsafe range. Among all districts, the water quality was found comparatively more deteriorated in Kohat and Mardan districts than Peshawar and Swat districts. Such chemically and bacteriologically unfit water sources for drinking and can cause human health problems.

Resumo O presente estudo envolve a análise química e bacteriológica de água de diferentes fontes, ou seja, furo, poços, garrafa e torneira, dos distritos de Peshawar, Mardan, Swat e Kohat da província de Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Paquistão. De cada distrito, 50 amostras de água (10 amostras de cada fonte), independentemente do status urbano e rural, foram coletadas dessas fontes e analisadas para sulfatos, nitratos, nitritos, cloretos, sólidos solúveis totais e coliformes (E. coli). Os resultados indicaram que a maioria das fontes de água tinha uma contagem inaceitável de E. coli, ou seja, > 34 UFC / 100 mL. As amostras positivas para E. coli foram elevadas no distrito de Mardan, seguido por Kohat, Swat e distrito de Peshawar. Além disso, algumas fontes de água também foram contaminadas quimicamente por diferentes fertilizantes inorgânicos (nitratos/nitritos de sódio, potássio), mas em níveis seguros, enquanto os resíduos agrícolas e industriais (compostos de cloreto e sulfato) estavam em níveis inseguros. Entre todos os distritos, a qualidade da água foi considerada comparativamente mais deteriorada nos distritos de Kohat e Mardan do que nos distritos de Peshawar e Swat. Essas fontes de água química e bacteriologicamente impróprias para beber podem causar problemas à saúde humana.

Drinking water quality of various sources in Peshawar, Mardan, Kohat and Swat districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Pakistan

Abstract The present study involves the chemical and bacteriological analysis of water from different sources i.e., bore, wells, bottle, and tap, from Peshawar, Mardan, Swat and Kohat districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province, Pakistan. From each district, 50 water samples (10 samples from each source), regardless of urban and rural status, were collected from these sources and analysed for sulphates, nitrates, nitrites, chlorides, total soluble solids and coliforms (E. coli). Results indicated that majority of the water sources had unacceptable E. coli count i.e.> 34 CFU/100mL. E. coli positive samples were high in Mardan District, followed by Kohat, Swat and Peshawar district. Besides this, the some water sources were also chemically contaminated by different inorganic fertilizers (nitrates/nitrites of sodium, potassium) but under safe levels whereas agricultural and industrial wastes (chloride and sulphate compounds) were in unsafe range. Among all districts, the water quality was found comparatively more deteriorated in Kohat and Mardan districts than Peshawar and Swat districts. Such chemically and bacteriologically unfit water sources for drinking and can cause human health problems.

Resumo O presente estudo envolve a análise química e bacteriológica de água de diferentes fontes, ou seja, furo, poços, garrafa e torneira, dos distritos de Peshawar, Mardan, Swat e Kohat da província de Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Paquistão. De cada distrito, 50 amostras de água (10 amostras de cada fonte), independentemente do status urbano e rural, foram coletadas dessas fontes e analisadas para sulfatos, nitratos, nitritos, cloretos, sólidos solúveis totais e coliformes (E. coli). Os resultados indicaram que a maioria das fontes de água tinha uma contagem inaceitável de E. coli, ou seja, > 34 UFC / 100 mL. As amostras positivas para E. coli foram elevadas no distrito de Mardan, seguido por Kohat, Swat e distrito de Peshawar. Além disso, algumas fontes de água também foram contaminadas quimicamente por diferentes fertilizantes inorgânicos (nitratos/nitritos de sódio, potássio), mas em níveis seguros, enquanto os resíduos agrícolas e industriais (compostos de cloreto e sulfato) estavam em níveis inseguros. Entre todos os distritos, a qualidade da água foi considerada comparativamente mais deteriorada nos distritos de Kohat e Mardan do que nos distritos de Peshawar e Swat. Essas fontes de água química e bacteriologicamente impróprias para beber podem causar problemas à saúde humana.

Utilization of agro-wastes to inhibit aflatoxins synthesis by Aspergillus parasiticus: A biotreatment of three cereals for safe long-term storage.

The growth of Aspergillus parasiticus and aflatoxins production were inhibited during storage of three important cereals (wheat, maize and rice) using leaves of neem (Azadirachta indica) and kikar (Acacia nilotica). Cereals were inoculated with mould spores and stabilized by neem and kikar leaves-powder. Test samples with moisture levels of 21% were stored at 30°C for a period of 9months. Aflatoxins were quantified at different time intervals in stored cereals. Neem leaves fully inhibited all types of aflatoxins synthesis for 4months in wheat and for 2months in maize while in rice inhibited synthesis of only B2, G1 and G2 aflatoxin for 3months. Kikar leaves fully inhibited aflatoxin B2, G1 and G2 for 3months in wheat, and for 2months in maize. Among two investigated plants, neem leaves were found more effective for preventing the production of all types of aflatoxins in cereals' long-term storage.

Utilization of waste fruit-peels to inhibit aflatoxins synthesis by Aspergillus flavus: a biotreatment of rice for safer storage.

Antifungal activity in lemon and pomegranate peels was considerable against Aspergillus flavus, higher in pomegranate (DIZ 37mm; MIC 135µg/mL). Powdered peels (5, 10, 20% w/w) were mixed in inoculated rice. The inhibitory effect on fungal-growth and production of aflatoxins by A. flavus was investigated at storage conditions - temperature (25, 30°C) and moisture (18%, 21%) for 9months. The maximum total aflatoxins accumulated at 30°C, 21% moisture and at 25°C, 18% moisture were 265.09 and 163.45ng/g, respectively in control. Addition of pomegranate-peels inhibited aflatoxins production to 100% during four month-storage of rice at 25°C and 18% moisture, while lemon-peels showed similar inhibitory effect for 3months at same conditions. However a linear correlation was observed in aflatoxins level with temperature and moisture. Studies showed that both fruit-wastes are potent preventer of aflatoxin production in rice, useful for a safer and longer storage of rice.

The role of respiratory viruses in adult patients with cystic fibrosis receiving intravenous antibiotics for a pulmonary exacerbation.

BACKGROUND: Respiratory viruses have become increasingly recognised as important agents in pulmonary exacerbations in infants and children with CF. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of respiratory viruses during acute pulmonary exacerbations in adults and compare the severity of these exacerbations with non-viral associated exacerbations. METHODS: This was a retrospective case control study. Viral throat swabs were taken from all patients presenting with an acute pulmonary exacerbation requiring intravenous antibiotic treatment over a 12 month period. RESULTS: There were 432 pulmonary exacerbations in 180 adults. A positive viral PCR in 42 exacerbations indicated a prevalence of 9.7%. The commonest virus isolated was rhinovirus (n = 29, 69%) with influenza A/H1N1 in seven patients (16.7%). Exacerbations associated with a positive viral PCR had a greater fall in lung function at presentation with higher levels of inflammatory markers. They received more days of intravenous antibiotics, showed less response to treatment and had a shorter time to next pulmonary exacerbation compared to matched controls. CONCLUSION: Viral associated pulmonary exacerbations in adults with CF are associated with more severe pulmonary involvement and respond less well to standard treatment.

Atlantoaxial instability treated with transarticular screw fixation.

We treated 11 patients with atlantoaxial instability using transarticular posterior screw fixation and lateral bone grafting. A posterior bone graft was added in eight patients. The results showed good reduction and a stable fixation. After 6 months ten patients had regained almost 70% of rotation and did not notice any significant limitation.

Evaluation of coliphages in sewage effluent of Faisalabad.

One hundred and ten samples of Sewage were collected from both underground sewage and open drain systems of Faisalabad for coliphage assay. It was observed that the samples from underground sewage system ranged from 8.43 X 10(3)--4.65 X 10(3) in mean plaque forming units (PFU) per ml, whereas the corresponding figures in open drain system varied from 8.66 X 10(3)--3.21 X 10(3) mean PFU per ml. In general, samples from congested areas of both the systems studied tended to be richest both in mean PFU per ml as well as plaque morphological variations. Overall 620 plaque morphological classes were isolated. It was also noted that the mean PFU per ml was higher in the summer than in the winter months and phage contents were increased after rain fall.

Road traffic crashes in Ramadan: an observational study

The aim of this study was to investigate trends in road traffic crashes [RTCs] managed by an emergency service, Rescue 1122, in 2011 in Punjab, Pakistan. RTC data were collected from 35 districts of Punjab and reviewed retrospectively. Data analysis revealed that the service responded to 12 969 RTC emergencies during August 2011 [Ramadan], compared with an average of 11 573 RTCs per month from January to August 2011. The younger age group [11-27 years] was victims in 29% of RTCs; 39% were due to speeding and 43% occurred in peak rush hours [14:00-18:00] before iftar [breakfast].Results of the study showed that Rescue 1122 faced more RTCs during Ramadan compared with the preceding months. Road safety is an important public health issue in Pakistan. Although there have been great improvements in roads in the past few years, much work needs to be done to deal with mounting trends in RTCs. Public awareness, political will and stringent law enforcement are key factors