May 2014

In recent times, medicinal plants and their extracts have received the attention of scientific communities for their therapeutic value. Several pharmacological studies confirm the above. Members of Zingiberaceae constitute a vital group of rhizomatous medicinal and aromatic plants characterised by the presence of volatile oils and oleoresins of export value. Alpinia is a large genus most widespread and taxonomically complex with 230 species. Alpinia calcarata and Alpinia galanga are known for their medicinal values. The present investigation was carried out on these two species to study the anatomic variations in rhizome and leaf. In Alpinia galanga Linn. the rhizome is highly branched with yellowish colour, cylindrical, 2-8×2-3 cm, while Alpinia calcarata rhizome is less branched with creamy yellow, cylindrical, 2-6×2 cm. The leaf anatomy in both species shows numerous vascular bundles and presence of bundle sheath and its extension upto lower epidermis.

Research experiments were conducted to investigate the effect of growth regulators on phenology, growth and yield of Ashwagandha / Winter Cherry [Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal.) during late rainy seasons 2008-09 and 2009-10 at Research Farm, College of Horticulture, Mandsaur (M.P.) India. The results revealed that spray of IBA 100 mg.l-1 effected maximum delay in floral initiation, 50 per cent flowering, 50 per cent fruiting; first fruit maturity and physiological maturity as compared to other growth regulators viz. MH, BA, Ethrel and water spray (control). There was no generalized specific trend found in LAI with respect to different growth regulators during crop growth stages SLA was maximum with IBA 150 mg.l-1, while SLW was maximum with BA 30 mg.l-1. MH 100 mg.l-1 and BA 30 mg.l-1 were found equally effective and the best treatments in increasing RGR and CGR during flowering (60-90DAS), while IBA 50mg.l-1 was the best responding spray for RGR and CGR enhancement during fruiting to physiological maturity at (90-150 DAS). Growth regulators did not produce any definite trend in LWR and LAR but MH 100 mg.l-1 is the best in increasing LWR and LAR in general. Spray of BA 10 mg.l-1and IBA 100 mg.l-1increased leaf persistence (LAD) in the crop, while that of BA 40 mg.l-1 and MH 100 mg.l-1 individually got maximum BMD. IBA 50 mg.l-1 produced maximum plant height (41.27 cm) while MH 250 mg.l-1 was highly effective in suppressing plant height (31.40 cm) as compared to other treatments. Sprays of IBA 100/150 mg.l-1 and Ethrel 100/150 mg.l-1 individually were very effective in increasing root length while BA spray suppressed the root length. IBA 100mg.l-1 and BA 40 mg. l-1 were found equally effective in producing the maximum root yield (11.45 q/ha) which was 37.45% higher than control.

NOTCH families are transmembrane proteins that have dual functions as both cell surface receptors and nuclear transcriptional regulators. If NOTCH1 pathway goes awry, it contributes to cellular transformation and tumorigenesis. Here we have investigated mutations in the NOTCH1 gene, in 50 Iraqi patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. We determined the occurrence of mutations in NOTCH1 using HRM-PCR and sequencing of polymerase chain reaction products as a sensitive assay for the detection of genetic mutations. This study assessed the feasibility of using HRM-PCR to screen for NOTCH1 mutations in blood samples obtained by from ALL patients in routine clinical practice. Blood samples obtained from ALL patients were evaluated according to our standard clinical protocols. DNA extracted from these samples was subjected to HRM-PCR to amplify exons 26, 27 and 34 of NOTCH1 followed by sequencing. Mutations were identified in 28% (14/50) of NOTCH1 including two novel mutations. This suggests that NOTCH1 is good prognostic for ALL Iraqi patients. Further studies with a wide range of sampling to confirm these findings are required.

The present study was designed to explore the effects of lithium and ethanol in the markers of lipid peroxidation, antioxidant enzymes and reduced glutathione activities on oxidative stress induced by methylphenidate (MPD) and corticosterone (CORT) in the brain tissues. The studies were conducted on the brain of adult male mice for 21 days. The concentrations of MPD 2.0 mg/kg BW and CORT 20.0mg/Kg BW were administered via intraperitoneally. However, LiCl 50.0 mg/kg BW and EtOH 2.0 g/kg BW was dissolved in water and administered via oral gavage. We observed thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) levels, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (Gpx) enzymes and reduced glutathione (GSH) activities by the spectrophotometer. Our results demonstrated that MPD and CORT treatment triggers oxidative stress in brain as revealed by an increased level of lipid peroxidation, and decreased levels of glutathione peroxidase and reduced glutathione respectively. We also noticed that the SOD and CAT activities were significantly higher in the CORT groups. Histopathological evaluation demonstrated that lithium did not show visible improvement in the MPD and CORT treatment groups. In addition, long-term ethanol treatment increased reactive oxygen species level in the brain. From these results it is possible to conclude that concomitant administration of LiCl with EtOH may enhance the toxicity in the brain tissues. Studies with larger samples are warranted to further clarify this issue.

Eighty two clinical samples were collected from suspected gonorrhoeae-infected patients (urethra swab and blood sample were taken from each patient). During a period from the beginning of December 2012 to the end of April 2013. In Al- Yarmouk teaching hospital ( Baghdad, Iraq) and private laboratories, all of the patients were married and have children compared with 20 samples were taken from apparently healthy control. All samples were bacteriologically examined by traditional methods for detection of N. gonorrhea, 82 isolates were identify by microscopic examination,76 isolates on Modified Thayer martin media and 61 isolates by PCR technique targeting Orf1 gene. The results revealed that all samples which give positive results with Orf1 gene yielded negative results for both SY 254 (85pb), BPY-2(90pb) genes. In the present study show no correlation between Y chromosome (AZF locus) microdeletions and N. gonorrhea infection.

Botanical inventories were performed in a 1.5 km-radius area around an apiary in a cultivated landscape in North-Western France. Palynological analyses were performed on pollen pellets collected from five colonies of the apiary during one year. Species and phenology of field-inventoried plants were analyzed and compared against the taxa identified in the pollen pellets. Foraging area was characterized by a large cultivated landscape with little -variability in cultivated species and broadly-diverse wild species in grasslands, ditches, roadsides, woods, copses and hedgerows. Palynological analyses found numerous wild-plant pollens throughout the year, with woody perennials predominant at the start of the beekeeping season. The pollens from cultivated species appeared from April and were abundant in spots but little diversified. Taken together, the data indicates that maintaining a high richness and diversity of flowering species over the beekeeping season ― which means preserving perennial and natural habitats ― may be crucial to provide honeybee colonies with sufficient pollen resources in rural landscapes.

An experiment was conducted with fifteen healthy goat’s kid of 4-6 month of age and divided into three groups. Experimental feeding was done for 90 days during which a metabolic trial was conducted. At the end of 45 days feeding of tree leaves Albezia lebbek, Ficus glomerata and Sorghums sudananse, the results indicated that the requirement of crude protein and calcium have been made adequately. The weekly body weight gain was 152.52±3.12, 152.52±3.12, 180.54±3.82 gram, whereas, the daily body weight gain was 21.78±0.44, 21.78±0.44, 25.78±0.54 gram in groups I, II and III respectively, showing a significant difference. Feed gain ratio (g/day) revealed that the group II animals fed with (Dumer) Ficus glomerata tree leaves as a sole feed had the highest feed conversion efficiency (2.6:1 g) followed by the group I (Serias) Albezia lebbek showed (3.22:1 g) while the group III (Sudan grass) Sorghums sudananse had the lowest feed conversion efficiency (4.61:1 g).

In the present study the larvicidal effect of botanical insecticide, Gloriosa superba against Aedes aegypti was administrated. The plant extract showed higher mortality in lower doses and it exhibit better protection against the different developmental stages of Aedes aegypti. Based on the probit analysis,the LC50 values and 95% upper and lower fiducial limit and regression values of the plant extract on Aedes aegypti were also noticed. The treatment of seed extract against III and IV instar larvae of Aedes aegypti showed that III instar larvae are more susceptible than IV instar larvae. These morphogenetic abnormalities are commonly caused by botanical extract and the disturbance from the growth regulating hormones. It is because the active principle compounds such as terpenoids, alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols and tannins present in this plant. Activity of alkaline phosphatase has been drtermined during different hours of larval development of Aedes aegypti. The activity has been determined during III instar mould to IV instar mould with a period of 24 hours in Aedes aegypti, activity increased from 35ppm to 40ppm. It is therefore suggested that Gloriosa superba derivatives can be effectively used as a biocide for vector control operations.

Purpose: Commissioning must occur before an operating theatre (OT) is first used and after any substantial modifications that may affect airflow patterns in preexisting theatres (as part of a re-commissioning process). It is important that the infection control team (ICT) or microbiologist is involved at all stages from pre-design through to opening and that adequate time for commissioning is built in to the schedule, including an allowance of time for microbiological assessments. In the present study special emphasis laid on the process of commissioning OT with respect to microbiologist perspective. Material and Methods: The study was carried at the tertiary care hospital to commission newly built 6 OTs and one CATH lab. The sterilization of all 6 OTs and CATH lab was done in 3 cycles. First formaldehyde fumigation was done followed by two cycles of fogging using hydrogen peroxide. After fumigation, the sterile surface swabs were collected from representative areas from all OTs and CATH lab. The air sampling was done by settle plate method. Then all the swabs were processed in microbiology laboratory according to standard guidelines for aerobic, anaerobic and fungal cultures. Results: The OT and CATH lab surfaces were free from anaerobic contamination. The samples which were taken from door side AC duct in CATH lab grew Aspergillus niger. The settle plate did not yield any growth. Conclusion: It is necessary to perform Microbiology evaluation of the newly built OT before commissioning to ensure that ventilation system in the OT are functional, environmental parameters and the microbial load in the theater environment are at the acceptable level. It forms the integral part in the process of commissioning the OT.

Cerebral ischemia initiates a cascade of detrimental events including glutamate associated excitotoxicity, membrane lipid degradation, DNA damage, formation of reactive oxygen species andacute inflammation, which lead to the disruption of cellular homeostasis and structural damage of ischemic brain tissue. Inflammation is increasingly recognized to be the key element in pathological progression of ischemic stroke. Therefore, reducing oxidative stress and downregulating the inflammatory response are options that merit consideration as potential therapeutic targets for ischemic stroke. Consequently, agents capable of modulating both elements will constitute promising therapeutic solutions but as of now no such therapies have been translated to clinical application. Hence we hypothesized that contribution of oxidative and inflammatory response through TNF receptors in the course of ischemic cell death and its modulation by natural herbs may be of prime significance.Natural agent Gingko biloba extract (GBE) has been previously reported to be useful in the treatment of various cardiovascular diseases and neuronal degeneration. Here in this study we used an in vitro murine model of ischemia (PC-12 cells exposed to oxygen–glucose deprivation[OGD]/reperfusion) andinvestigated the effects of this natural agentin neuroprotection and cell survival after ischemic injury.We observed that the treatment of cultures with GBE significantly increased cell viability and decreased NO generation in a dose-dependent manner. GBE (50 and 100 μg/ml) treatment of OGD exposed cellsmarkedly reduced the injury associated with increases in inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and active caspase-3 protein expressions as well as the mRNA expression of TNF-a. This effect may be partiallymediated by the inhibition of TNF-α activation, followed by the inhibition of inflammatory responses in PC12 cells. Therefore, GBE treatment may represent a novel approach for lowering the risk of or improving function in ischemia-reperfusion brain injury-related disorders.

Thirty female albino rats and their pups daily dosed with mercuric acetate during pregnancy and lactation period, rats equally divided into three groups given 0ral doses for T1 (1mg\kgb.w), T2 group given (5mg/kg b.w). Of mercuric acetate and control group which given distilled water during a period of experiment. The neurobehavioral results were obtained in 10 randomly selected suckling pups at the end of lactation period showed significant decrease in locomotor activity and exploration, stimulation in autonomic nervous system activity (number of bolus faces), defect in vestibular function, disturbance in proper reflex, defect in degree of cognitive function and neuromuscular coordination, Microscopic examination results showed that the severity of the brain pathological lesions increased with increasing standard mercuric acetate doses received through their dam's milk or transferred through placenta during pregnancy exposure.

Background: In spite of extensive promising research, a true substitute for blood and blood components may not be available for many years (1).Therefore; blood donation by humans will continue to be the major source for blood and blood components the attitude, beliefs, and level of knowledge associated with blood donation may affect the disposition of potential donors to blood donation. Health workers are expected to have a good knowledge of blood usage, to be aware of the increasing demand and scarcity of the products, and are thus expected to donate as well as encourage voluntary blood donation among the public Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional descriptive study carried in February 2014 at PDU Medical College Rajkot. Pretested questionnaires were used to assess their knowledge, attitude, and practice of voluntary blood donation. A total of 150 students were recruited from the 2 year, Prefinal and final year MBBS by quota sampling to participate in the study Result Knowledge of Blood Transfusion: A total of 128 (85.3%) respondents expressed good knowledge of the common blood group types, and 144 (96%) knew their own blood groups. Attitude towards Blood Donation: A 145(96.6%) respondents said blood donation was good. Voluntary donation was accepted as the best source of blood donors by 120 (80 %), replacement donors by 20 (13.3%), remunerated by 10 (6.6%). Fifty (33.3%) said blood donation may have adverse consequences. Practice of Blood Donation: Thirty-six (24 %) have donated in the past. Only 5 (3.3%) were regular blood donors. Only 20 (13.3 %) are voluntary, and 16 (10.6%) donated to a friend or relative in need of blood Conclusion: In conclusion medical students are reasonably informed and have positive perception towards blood donation; however, only few of them have donated and are positively disposed to donate blood. There is a need for active education program to encourage all and if this happens adequate and safe blood from this group will be guaranteed.

Human resource provides a group with an effective workforce in order to meet its mission. Human development relies mainly on training and developmental activities. Effective human resource uses system and tools to bring together: the right number of people, with right attitude and skills, in right place, at right time”. Microfinance, the development buzzword of the nineties was meant to cure the illness of rural poverty. The Indian microfinance scene is dominated by SHGs and their linkage to bank with self-reliance, self-sufficiency and self-help gained momentum. The goal of human resource system, tools and activities is to help the individual employees who make up his/her microfinance institution to be successful at their jobs. Self Help Groups or SHGs represent a unique approach to financial intermediation. The SHG approach combines have access to low-cost financial services with a process of self management and development for the needy people, who are SHG members. SHGs are having link not only with banks but also with wider development programmes. But there are also some questions. How effective are the groups in managing their financial transactions? Individuals cannot only enhance the success of the individuals, but can encourage a team effort capable of reaching goals beyond what one person can do alone. So, microfinance is helping the individuals in group formation. The success of group approach in rural micro-finance among the poor has inspired the tendency to look at all networking as essential and desirable in rural community development. This paper examines to find out how microfinance is helping the human resource development and what are the real situations of that group for the development? The major issues addressed in this study are the effect on human resource development by the formation of microfinance in this region which includes the nature of activities, work space, training and development of skills and marketing of finished products which are main parts of human resource development.

The article presents the current state of political culture of Kazakh society as an important factor of the objective, holistic understanding of the social-political reality. Authors analyze various approaches of the definition "political culture” in detail. Political culture is a kind of indicator of the development of the political system of the state and is a reflection of the degree of political life. Therefore, the authors reveal its development features in the condition of modernization and integration of Kazakhstan into the global cultural space. The article also contains the results of a mini-research devoted to this problem.

Geospatial analysis is used in a wide range of disciplines as a research tool, a decision-making tool, data analysis tool, and/or as a planning tool. Remote Sensing and Geographic Information Systems are used to predict, manage and learn about all kinds of phenomena affecting the earth, its systems and inhabitants. Land use/land cover (LULC) changes play a major role in the study of global change. In this study, Landuse/ Landcover changes are investigated by using of Remote Sensing and Geographical Information System (GIS) in and around Rayachoty, Kadapa District, Andhra Pradesh, India by using satellite image IRS- P6, LISS-III data. Under this study three thematic maps such as location map, drainage map and landuse/ landcover maps were prepared. The land use and land cover analysis on the study area has been attempted based on thematic mapping of the area consisting of built-up land, cultivated land, water bodies, forest land, barren land and uncultivated land using the satellite image. The result shows that the cultivated lands are well distributed throughout the study area and it covers 253.18 sq. km (35.61 per cent). Forest occupies 105.44 sq. km and sharing about 14.83 per cent of the total land use land cover of the study area. The built-up land occupies 3.98 sq. km (0.56 per cent) and there was a rapid expansion of built-up lands. Barren land occupies 156.13 sq. km (21.96 per cent). Water bodies and uncultivated lands occupy 5.19 sq. km (0.73 per cent) and 186.92 sq. km (26.29 per cent) respectively. About the annual rainfall data of six years from 2007 to 2013 shows that the significant decreases tend was observed graphically. Well developed dendritic drainage pattern is there in the study area. The spatial information of the surface will help in the optimal land use planning at the macro and micro level.

Forest formations in Zounzounkan have undergone two major periods of their degradation. Anthropogenic pressures have contributed to 63, 26 % degradation of the forest cover between 1990 and 2000, while climate risks of erosion contributed to 16,68%. Between 2000 and 2010, major anthropogenic pressures are expressed by baresoil with a relative contribution of 31,65% to the degradation of forest cover, 19,14% for climate risks represented by erosion. From vegetation matrix transition, we notice that between 1990 and 2000, woodlands and wooded savannahs have been replaced by the tree and shrub savannah (37,98 %), grassland and saxicolous (20,41 %), the mosaics of crops and fallow (32,11 %), bare soil (3,85 %), wetlands (1,45 %), and soil altered by erosion (4,20 %). During this period, tree and shrub savannas were replaced by woodland and savanna woodlands (26,91 %), grassland and saxicolous (30,54 %), mosaics of crops and fallow (15,34%), bare soil (31,65%), wetlands (5.94 %) and soils altered by erosion (16,54 %). From 2000 to 2010, woodlands and woodlands have been replaced by the tree and shrub savannah (29,27 %), grassland and saxicolous (4,73 %), mosaics of crops and fallow (10,83%), bare soil (31,15 %), wetlands (7,34%), and soil altered by erosion (16,68 %). During this same period, tree and shrub savannas were replaced by woodland and savanna woodlands (16,10%), grassland and saxicolous (34,43%), mosaics of crops and fallow (16,64%), bare soil (18,80%), wetlands (10,98%) and soils altered by erosion (19,14%).

Globalization has ensured that the Indian economy and financial markets cannot stay insulated from the present financial crisis in the developed economies. Global financial crisis is commonly believed to have begun in July 2007 with the credit crunch. The credit crunch may have its root in the US but now its global problem. The impact of this will be three fold: the element of GDP growth driven by offshore flows will be diluted; correction in the asset prices which were previously pushed by foreign investors and demand for domestic liquidity putting pressure on interest rate. India should quickly focus on alternative remedial measure to limit damage.

An engineering geophysical investigation of the site of the proposed Jarawa Kogi small earth dam, located in Joseast Local Government Area (L. G. A), Plateau State, Nigeria, was carried out. The investigation involved the electrical resistivity method which utilized the Schaumberg array. A total of twelve (12) vertical electrical sounding (VES) stations were occupied along the proposed dam axis. Four subsurface layers were delineated. These include, from top to bottom, the topsoil, a laterite layer, a weathered basement layer and the bedrock. Overburden thickness along the axis is quite significant, with depth to the competent bedrock in the range of 4.9 - 39.3 m. Generally, the Basement slopes onto the current position of the river channel. This disposition will aid base flow into the river channel from the shoulders. The bedrock is characterized by two major depressions and two minor depressions. These depressions act as receptacles for thick accumulation of alluvium. The fracture zone delineated in the bedrock is limited, so that it may not pose serious problem to the integrity of the proposed dam. The bedrock is directly overlain by a thick layer thought to be weathered material. This material may not help prevent water seepage through the foundation of the dam embankment. Also, all metallic objects to be buried underground must be treated against corrosion.

In view of the stigma attached to HIV and AIDS, many family members and friends of Persons Living with HIV and AIDS (PLHIV) neglect them. In Ghana, some PLHIV voluntarily provide care and support for other PLHIV newly diagnosed of HIV. This study sought to ascertain what motivates them to undertake this task in Ghanaian hospitals, clinics and homes and what impact they make. Data for the study were obtained from 120 purposively selected PLHIV serving as ‘models of hope’. Data collection methods employed for this study were questionnaire administration and in-depth interviewing. Quantitative data of the study were analyzed using the Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS), version 17.0., formerly called Statistical Package for the Social Sciences. Additionally, qualitative data were manually analyzed. The theoretical framework for the study is the hope theory. A major result of the study was that the respondents were motivated to care for and support their fellow PLHIV newly diagnosed of HIV with a view to helping them have some hope and live positively with HIV. Although they were faced with financial problems, stigmatization and discrimination, the refusal of some clients to religiously take their drugs after adherence counselling, etc., they still provided the needed care and support. Through their services most of their clients gain a lot of hope, particularly when they regain their health, live positively with HIV and overcome self-stigma. The study recommends that stakeholders encourage these ‘models of hope’ by giving them adequate training and consistently motivating them through the recognition they give them.

The paper has sought to cover a panorama of issues related to postgraduate students’ challenges in writing research proposals and reports. It used experience survey and insight-stimulating design and therefore, it falls under the category of exploratory research (formulative research study). The data of the research was obtained from 32 postgraduate students and 18 thesis supervisors who were selected using convenience sampling technique. Semi-structured interview and focus group discussion were used to gather data. The findings of the study indicated that among others, lack of relationship between the theoretically acquired knowledge and its application, course delivery technique, English language proficiency level, rapport between supervisors and advisees, and students’ intellectual and psychological readiness were the most prevalent threats posed to postgraduate research undertakings. This paper concluded that post graduate students’ selection criteria should consider test results of applicants’ language proficiency and knowledge in the field to which the students apply as key criteria. In addition, the course delivery techniques should be molded towards applicability of the acquired knowledge.

Densities and ultrasonic velocities of binary liquid mixtures of methyl acrylate (MA) with benzene (B), methyl benzene (MB), ethyl benzene (EB), chloro benzene (CB), bromo benzene (BB) and nitro benzene (NB) have been measured at 308.15 K. The observed data have been utilized to calculate various acoustical parameters like Isentropic compressibility (KS), Intermolecular free length (Lf) and acoustic impedance (Z). The various excess properties like excess ultrasonic velocity (uE), excess acoustic impedance (ZE), excess Isentropic compressibility (KSE) and excess Inter molecular free-length (LfE) were calculated and fitted to the Redlich-Kister equation. The results were discussed in terms of the existence of intermolecular interactions between the components in the liquid mixtures under study.

Dye pollutants are alarming hazardous compounds causing serious diseases such as cancer, hormone deficiency and bronchitis. Research is essential to develop alternate/more effective technique for removal of dye pollutants. In the present investigation, initially, 2-hydroxyacetophenone–biuret–trioxane (2-HABT) terpolymer was successfully synthesized, purified and characterized in the laboratory. Then, titanium oxide photocatalyst was anchored on 2-HABT terpolymer using molecular adsorption–deposition method. The titanium oxide particles, deposited on the 2-HABT terpolymeric molecules, formed a coating of about 100 nm in thickness. This newly modified functional photocatalytic material was characterized by means of infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction and scanning electron studies. An anatase-type titanium oxide was uniquely developed. This new TiO2-2-HABT photocatalyst exhibited an excellent photocatalytic activity in the photodegradation of quite concentrated dyes. The dye molecules in bulk solution was supposed to be condensed around titanium oxide particles because of the adsorption phenomenon on 2-HABT polymer molecules, and, therefore, the photocatalytic process was enhanced due to the combined effect of adsorption by 2-HABT terpolymer macromolecules and photocatalytic activity on anatase-type titanium oxide. It was observed that the decolorization of contaminated water occurred within a short-time interval. Thus, it can be concluded that the functional photocatalytic material, reported in article, can be successfully used for water and wastewater treatments.

Proxy credentials are commonly used in security systems when one entity wishes to grant to another entity some set of its privileges. We have defined and standardized X.509 Certificates issuing procedures for the purpose of providing more secure and remotely available certificate, with the help of Client Authentication via Virtual Smart Card. We present here our motivations for this work coming from our efforts in Grid security, the Proxy Certificate itself, and our experiences in implementation and deployment.

Kinetics of oxidative decolorisation of indigocarmine(IC) dye by CAT in pH 5.8 buffer medium catalyzed by nitrite ion has been studied at 300K spectrophotometrically at λmax= 610 nm. The reaction is first order with respect to [IC], [Nitrite ion] and second order with respect to [CAT]. It also shows an inverse first order on p-toluenesulphonamide concentration [TSA] and inverse fractional order on [H+]. The additions of the reaction product p-toluenesulphonamide and halide ions have no significant effect on the rate of the reaction. The variation of ionic strength of the medium did not affect the rate indicating that non ionic species are involved in the rate determining step. The dielectric effect is positive. The reaction was studied at different temperatures and the activation parameters have been deduced. Oxidation products were characterized. Test for free radicals was found to be negative. The derived rate law based on the proposed mechanism is in complete agreement with the observed kinetic data.

Serum level of IL-31 and IL-33 was assessed in sera of 79 inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) Iraqi patients; 54 ulcerative colitis (UC) and 25 crohn's disease (CD), as well as 10 apparently healthy controls. The patients attended the Gastrointestinal Teaching Hospital in Baghdad for diagnosis and treatment during the period March-August 2012. Serum level of IL-31 was approximated in UC and CD patients and controls (1.69 ± 0.09, 1.71 ± 0.31 and 1.56 ± 0.24 pg/ml, respectively). In contrast, IL-33 was significantly increased (P ≤ 0.001) in UC and CD patients (3.29 ± 0.44 and 6.41 ± 0.18 pg/ml, respectively) compared to controls (0.74 ± 0.28 pg/ml). These results suggest a role of IL-33 in the pathogenesis of both clinical groups of IBD, especially CD.

Many plant derived compounds have been used as drugs both in their original form and in semi-synthetic form. Camptothecin (CPT), a pyrole quinoline alkaloid, is one of the most promising anticancer drug of 21st century. It was first extracted from Camptotheca acuminata, since then it has been reported to exist in several plant species and also in plant endophytic fungi. Indiscriminate harvesting of these species for drug has led to a serious threat to these species. The distribution of CPT in the plant kingdom is being described here, so that the stress on the existing sources of CPT can be relieved by finding alternative sources.

Medicinal plants are the most exclusive source of life saving drugs for majority of the world’s population. The use of medicinal plant extract increases the body’s immune system and lowers the allergies and asthma. The four medicinal plants taken for the present study possess digestive property. The experiment conducted to study the biochemical parameters of the leaves of the four medicinal plants viz., R. tomentosa, P. guajava, C, aurantium and C. limonum showed a significantly higher protein, carbohydrate and chlorophyll content in C. aurantium. The chlorophyll 'b' and total chlorophyll content was found to be significantly higher in R. tomentosa.

The leaf, pulp and seed extracts of Carica papaya (Linn.) were tested for the presence of various phytochemicals like tannins, saponins, alkaloids, flavonoids, carbohydrates and proteins. The invitro antioxidant potential of Carica papaya (Linn.) extracts were evaluated by different methods like DPPH assay. FRAP assay, Nitric Oxide assay and Total antioxidant capacity. The erythrocyte membrane stabilizing property was studied using heat induced hemolytic assay and osmotic fragility test. The thrombolytic potential was assessed by determining the percentage of clot dissolved by the extract. The results show that aqueous, ethanolic and methanolic extracts of Carica papaya (Linn.) contains varying amount of phytochemicals and a remarkable antioxidant potential. The results of membrane stabilizing and the thrombolytic properties demonstrate that papaya is one of the obvious choices for various medicinal applications.

Water-filled tree holes are important temporal ecosystem for a number of different aquatic and semi-aquatic organisms. The study of tree-hole breeding mosquitoes was carried out in the Annamalai University campus, Tamilnadu, India between June 2013 - February 2014, by using standard entomological procedures. The tree holes are sampled for various mosquito species around the campus. Types of mosquito species encountered, their relative abundance, as well as genera varied significantly during the study. Three genera of mosquitoes: Aedes, Culex, Anopheles were recovered while 14 species of mosquitoes encountered include: Aedes aegypti, Ae.albopictus, Ae.africanus, Ae.simpsoni, Ae.taylori, Culex quinquefaciatus, Cx.nebulosus, Cx.tritaeniorhynchus, Cx.pseudovishnui, Cx.pipens, Anopheles stephensi, An.sundaicus, An.culiciformis and An.fluviatilis. Most of the mosquitoes showed preference to tree holes for their oviposition. Tree hole mosquitoes are studied by α-biodiversity like Margalef index (DMg), Simpson’s index (λ), Shannon-Wiener (H’), Pielou’s index (J’). The presence of Ae.aegypti and Ae.albopictus indicate that the study areas were at risk of dengue fever epidemic. The presence of Anopheles and Culex species ensured endemicity of malaria and filariasis, while the recovery of Ae.aegypti in this region suggests a possible outbreak of dengue fever in future if not properly controlled.

Background: The information on mean age at first nocturnal ejaculation and first masturbation among male individuals are sparse in India. In the era of computers, improved education level, social networks, and entertainment and level, it is necessary to know the onset of nocturnal ejaculation and sexual activity among males at frequent intervals. Objective: to find the age at first nocturnal ejaculation and first masturbation (Orgasmic experience) among collegiate young adult men. Methodology: A community based descriptive cross sectional survey was undertaken in the selected 16 colleges on different education courses during October 2013 to February 2014 by using the pilot tested, self administered anonymous questionnaire. The detailed information was collected on nocturnal ejaculation and masturbation related variables. Analysis was done using SPSS software package. Results: The number of young adults participated in this study was 686 and the response rate to all the questions was 90%. Eighty percent of the subjects were aged less than 23 years. Nearly 20 percent of the participants did not share information on nocturnal ejaculation and masturbation practices. The mean age at experiencing first nocturnal ejaculation was 15.3 + 1.5 years (95% CI 15.13 – 15.45) and first orgasmic experience (Masturbation) was 15.4+ 1.6 years (95% CI 15.21 - 15.55). There was statistical significant difference between students of difference courses on age at first nocturnal ejaculation and first masturbation (p<0.003). Conclusion: The mean age at the onset of sexual maturity among males is 15 years. The difference between onset of nocturnal ejaculation and first solitary masturbation was narrow and a periodical study on these factors is needed in future in India.

Introduction: Meningiomas are predominantly benign tumors, which arise from the arachnoids’ cap cells. They account for 20% of all primary intracranial neoplasms. The p53 tumor suppressor is a key regulator of cell cycle progression, such that its inactivation promotes increased cell growth and tumorigenesis. Inactivation of p53 as a consequence of p14 ARF loss and MDM2-mediated degradation may contribute to meningioma progression. Material and Methods: This is a cross-sectional study that had been performed at the National Center for Neurological Sciences during February 2011 to December 2013. All meningioma tumors at Elhassan Medical Laboratory for histopathology and cytology during the above mentioned period were processed for P53 protein immunohistochemistry. Data were analyzed using SPSS 13 software with reference P.value of 0.05 was considered statistically significant Results: The sequencing results showed heterozygosity of T>G in exon 4 at protein position ( Ala 70Ala) in 16 samples (10 fibrous, 5 atypical and one anaplastic). Within the afore-mentioned 16 samples, 6 samples showed heterozygosity of C>T in exon 4 at position Ala 69 Val, (this polymorphism had 5 features). Positive immmuno-staining for p53 was identified in 76% of the patients . Labelling indexes of 11-20% were reported in 32.8% of the p 53 group, mostly in fibrous and atypical subtypes of meningioma.

Diabetes is a condition in which the body does not make enough insulin or the body cells cannot use insulin properly. Insulin is a hormone that helps the body use glucose (sugar) for energy. Without insulin, glucose (the body's main energy source) builds up in the blood, resulting in high blood sugar. There were an estimated 40 million persons with diabetes in India in 2007 and this is no is predicated to rise to 70 million people in 2025.Due to this sheer number economic burden due to diabetes in India is amongst highest in the world. Type 2 diabetes is due to progressive insulin resistance is increase in insulin secretion by pancreatic cell causing hyperinsulinaemia. Insulin resistance is a characteristic feature of most of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. The complications of diabetes are preliminary due to high level of blood glucose and also poor glycemic control. Short terms complications happen very quickly and long term complications are comprises of microvascular and macrovascular complications. Prediabetes is most important term and it provides information of those metabolic states that occurs when blood glucose levels are high but remain below level that is established for clinical diagnosis. Prediabetes is the term which includes impaired fasting glucose or impaired glucose intolerance. The therapeutic consequences to treat T1DM and T2DM are proper nutrition, exercise, education and proper pharmacological therapy. In pharmacological therapy many of drugs or medications includes such as Secretagogues, Metformin Thiazolidinediones, alpha glycosidase inhibitor.

As a diagnostic fluid, saliva offers superiority over serum due to both aninexpensive n noninvasive collection method by specially trained persons and a cost-effective approach for screening of large populations. These noninvasive tests offer advantages over other tests that involve invasive techniques such as sampling of the subgingival flora or taking a blood sample. Collection of saliva offers a reduced risk of infection compared to the collection of serum. Moreover, obtaining saliva samples from infant, disabled or anxious patients, is much easier than obtaining other samples. There is a lot of useful components-changing information in saliva when a person is in sick. Therefore, we define these changing components as “biomarkers”. As better diagnosissaves lives, utilization of biomarkers as early predictors for clinical disease not only contributes to the effective prevention and treatment of diseases, but also enhances the assessment of potential health risk.

Appendiceal pregnancy is a rare form of abdominal pregnancies. The occurrence of this type of pregnancy is under the influence of risk factors of ectopic pregnancies such as sequelae of genital infections, a low socio-economic level and inadequate medical care. The authors report the case of a patient of Saint-Louis in Senegal, aged of 36, who presented an appendiceal pregnancy simultaneously with a gangrenous appendicitis. The appendiceal location of abdominal pregnancy is exceptional in our context. If clinical examination is sometimes inconclusive, the abdominopelvic ultrasonography confirms the diagnosis as in most of ectopic pregnancies. The treatment of choice is surgical.

Background: Hemorrhage after cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) remains a clinical problem. Many risk factors associated with excessive blood loss have been identified, but postoperative bleeding remains poorly explained because of the complexity of the hemostatic process and the technical difficulties imposed by operative procedures. It suggests a need for patient testing to determinate hemostatic disorder after CPB and to be able differentiate a surgical cause for abnormal bleeding. Objectives: The study objective was to determine the prothrombin time (PT) and international normalized ratio (INR) in predicting bleeding in Sudanese patients among Mechanical valve replacement undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass. Design: Descriptive Cross sectional study Methodology: A prosthetic valve was implanted in 150 patients between July 2013 to January 2014.The age of patients ranged between 20 to 80 years with mean of 41years. The PT and INR were determined using coagulation analyzer model Spinreact- (BIOBAS10). One hundred and fifty patients underwent valve replacement: 60 patients(40%) had isolated mitral valve replacement (MVR), 46 patients(30.7%) had isolated aortic valve replacement (AVR), 26(17.3%) had duple valve replacement( DVR) and 18 (12%) had coronary artery bypass graft (CABG), and 50 healthy individuals were recruited as control group. Results: The mean of prothrombin time(PT) was (34.5±14.02) seconds and there was significant variation (p.value ˂ 0.05) between the patients and controls(13.1±1.8)seconds. The mean international normalized ratio(INR) was (3.2±1.6) however there was a significant variation (p.value ˂ 0.05) between the patients and controls(1.0±0.25). Among Sudanese patients with prosthetic heart valve, bleeding was the major complications rather than thromboemboloism. About 129(86%) patients from 150 had prothrombin time more than 20 seconds and about 44(29.3%) patients show international normalized ratio more than 3.5. The mean PT-INR was 2.4±0.6 in the cases without hemorrhage complications, and 4.2±1.5 in the patients associated with excessive bleeding. There was significant difference in mean PT-INR between the bleeding complication group and non complication group (p.value ˂ 0.05). More than 72% of patients with hemorrhage complications showed the PT-INR more than 3.97. Conclusion: PT and INR had high sensitivity and specificity in predicting blood loss among patients with valvular replacement and represent good indicators of platelet and fresh frozen plasma transfusion in these patients. The Prothrombin time and INR correlated with blood loss and transfusion requirements for predicting excessive blood loss after cardiopulmonary bypass.

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the most common non-communicable disease world-wide. As the style of living in Sudan is changing to a more westernized way, with less physical activity and more dependence on carbohydrate and fat-rich diets the incidence of the disease is increasing. The management of the disease requires continuous monitoring of the patient's blood sugar, The two commonly used methods are bedside, home-based glucometers and laboratory-based chemical analyzer. The current study aimed to determine the accuracy of bedside glucometer (ACCU, CHEK) for blood glucose measurement as compared to laboratory-based automated chemical analyzer Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study included 79 diabetes mellitus patients, 49% males and 51% females, with age ranged from 20-70 years, recruited from Omdurman military hospital during the period between June to December 2012. From which venous blood was collected from each participant in lithium heparin container for measuring blood glucose using the chemical analyzer (Mindray200), simultaneously, one drop of capillary blood was placed on the strip of the glucometer (ACCU check). The data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and the data were expressed as mean ± standard deviation Result: No statistical significant difference was observed between blood glucose readings using the chemical analyzer (191.5±126.7 SD) and the glucometer (176.6±126.1 SD) with P. value 0.460, although glucometer showed lower readings than chemical analyzer. Conclusion: We concluded that the bedside glucometer was as accurate as laboratory based auto analyzer, and can be used at home to monitor the glucose level.

Sickle cell anaemia (SCA) is an inherited blood disorder that is characterized by chronic haemolysis and episodes of acute clinical complication. SCA is associated with hypercoagulable state with increased thrombin generation and elevated D-Dimer level which is reported as a marker for SCA related complication. This study aimed to determine the D-Dimer level in Sudanese children with SCA in a steady state and to correlate it with the haematological parameter. Following informed consent, one hundred and one subjects; fourty one children with SCA in steady state, and age and sex matched sixty healthy subjects as controls were enrolled. Blood count was performed by automated cell counter (Sysmex KX-21N). D-dimer was measured using i-CHROMATM. Mean D-Dimer level was significantly higher among SCA cases when compared with the controls (p value 0.000). Mean TWBC count and mean platelets count were significantly higher in the SCA patients than in controls (p value 0.000 and 0.005 respectively). There was no significant correlation between D-Dimer level and all haematological parameters. In conclusion, the study confirms the hypercoagulable state in SCA. The study highlights haematological reference values for Sudanese patients with SCA.

Statistical scission model has been applied to study fission fragment angular distributions induced in heavy-ion reaction on 232Th and 237Np target. The ratio of spherical to effective moments of inertia as a function of spin I has been investigated for 16O+ 232Th fission reactions.

The objective of this study was to compare the physical capacities and the match physiological data of back players with those of front players, belonging all to the handball elite of the Republic of Benin. The study sample included 17 players (23.52 ± 0.79 years) with 9.5 ± 0.5 years of competition handball practice. For an experimental match, they were randomly separated in two teams (A and B), each of which included back players (BP) and front players (FP). The main data were the playing positions (BP and FP) and the results of the following tests: 30 m isolated sprint (S30), repeated-sprint ability (RSA), squat jump (SJ), counter movement jump (CMJ), physiological match data, body mass index (BMI), as well as heart rate (HR). The results of BP were better than those of FP for RSA (p < 0.01) and the distance covered in match (p < 0.05). This study provides the first analysis as well on the physical and physiological parameters as on the match data in Beninese elite handball players, according to their playing position. The results suggest that the physical and anthropometric characteristics should be included in any testing process of young handball players in the Republic of Benin. This could be added to the data of the literature and contribute to talent identification and development.

This study is initiated to understand and analyse real happening of Supermarkets and their marketing intelligence system in Tirunelveli city. The researcher would tend to study real applications and systems of supermarket towards marketing intelligence that becomes vital and many organizations recent times concentrate highly on this way.

Given the importance of the employment of women and its impact on the formation of the character of the children, the main purpose of this study was to compare moral judgment of children with employed mothers and children with housewife mothers. The population of this study consisted of 5th grade primary school girls in Rey city of Tehran. Sampling method was based on cluster random sampling. Sixty students with employed mothers and 60 students with housewife mothers were selected as the statistical sample. To collect the data, the moral judgment questionnaire was used. In order to analyze the data, in addition to descriptive statistics, conclusive statistics such as T test was also used. The results indicated that the average moral judgment among students having employed mother was higher than the ratio of the housewife mothers.

The objective of this research work was to study the formation of heat stable salts (HSS) during thermal degradation of Methyldiethanolamine (MDEA) solvent and to check the corrosion rates for different alloys. HSS such as acetate, formate, sulfates, thiosulfate, glycolate, nitrate etc. were formed with varying concentrations during thermal degradation of MDEA. The corrosion rates of three different specimen of alloys, namely SS-304, SS-321 and Hastelloy-x, under thermal degradation of lean MDEA (46.34 weight %) from Gasco, Habshan (Abu Dhabi) and 46 weight% fresh MDEA loaded with H2S and RSH at 130ºC were observed. The corrosion rate using lean MDEA at a stirring speed of 700 rpm and at 130°C were observed as SS-321 (0.2977 millimeter/year as ‘mmy’), Hastelloy-x (0.1859 mmy) and SS-304 (0.11396 mmy). The fresh MDEA solutions were degraded at 130ºC with and without stirring pat 700 rpm. Formation of HSS was much higher when fresh MDEA degraded thermally without stirring. Thermally degraded fresh MDEA solution without stirring has no effect on SS-304 but corroded the Hastelloy-x at 1.0214 mmy. Thermally degraded fresh MDEA solution loaded with H2S and RSH and stirred at 700 rpm corroded the specimens most as SS-321 (64.7144 mmy), SS-304 (60.8032 mmy) and Hastelloy-x (0.2678 mmy).

Fog screen is patented technology that creates a seamless, thin and flat layer of screen floating in the air. Fog screen is a miracle in itself – here fog is generated using normal fog machine, so it won’t make you wet. Fog screen captures the light from the regular projector, so anything you can see on computer screen you can also project in the air. “In this paper we are presenting a new and fascinating way of human computer interaction, because we are developing a fog screen for computer screen projection with 3D gesture implementation. Developing solution for 3D gesture implementation and building an inexpensive low budget fog screen is important part of this paper.”

Modern day changes in lifestyle and dietary pattern have favoured an increase in the occurrence of non- communicable yet chronic and degenerative diseases called as lifestyle diseases. Among the lifestyle diseases, heart diseases occupy a primary place. Changes in lifestyle, rising consumption of sugar, junk foods, animal fat and less physical activity account for the rising global rates of heart diseases. This study was undertaken with the objective to study the risk for cardiovascular disease among industrial women employees. One eighty women in the age group of 20- 40 years working in a textile mill were selected for the study. The selected industrial women were assessed for the risk of cardiovascular diseases using a formulated risk assessment index (RAI).

The present study was carried out to investigate the effect of fruit pulp extract of Carica papaya (seeded and seedless fruits) on male albino Wistar rats. The experimental animals were divided into three groups, One group served as control, Group- II , received papaya pulp extract from seeded fruits and Group - III received papaya pulp extract from seedless fruits. Both groups were orally administered with pulp extract (10ml/kg/body weight) for 60 days. Pituitary gonadotropins (LH, FSH) and steroid hormone (testosterone) analysis was carried out on 21st, 41st and 61st day. There was a significant decrease (p<0.05) in the concentration of LH, FSH and testosterone on the 20th, 40th and 60th day. These results may indicate that Carica papaya fruit pulp extract of seeded and seedless possess antifertility adverse effects.

The provision of good indoor air quality (IAQ) in schools is essential for students' health as well as for their academic achievement. The purpose of the present study was to assess the ventilation rates in a representative sample of (N= 36) primary schools in Eastern Province by using CO2 as an indicator of ventilation. The results revealed that only four schools (10%) of the total primary schools selected in this study have adequate ventilation. The average mean CO2 rates were 1333.9± 475.4 ppm and 1198.5± 303.6 ppm at 9:00 AM in rented and governmental schools building, respectively. On the other hand, at 12:00 PM the mean CO2 rates were 1780.4± 636.5 ppm and 1563.3± 595.7 ppm in rented and governmental schools buildings, respectively. Interestingly, the average mean of CO2 rates in rented schools were significantly higher at 9:00 AM and 12:00 PM (p= 0.020) and (p= 0.028), respectively. In conclusion, the ventilation rate is relatively poor since mean CO2 rates in schools exceeded the recommended guideline (1000 ppm) in the majority of schools. Raising awareness of schools and communities regarding the importance of ensuring good ventilation in classroom is highly required. Policy makers should work hard in parallel with community to ensure better healthy and safe schools environment. Emphasis should be given to the research conducted in different schools regarding broader aspects of school environment and their potential hazards.

Laevicaulis alte is one of the important pulmonate pests infesting the vegetable crops. Mostly they feed on vegetation available in and around their habitat. According to the malacologist point of view the slug Laevicaulis alte is not inferior to any other insect in damaging the agricultural crops. The controlling of this particular slug pest is important to minimize the infestation on agricultural land. For the past two decades, malacologists recommend the use of inorganic synthetic compounds such as copper sulphate, calcium sulphate, calcium cyanide etc. to control the molluscan species. But, all these compounds may also affect non–target organisms, soil texture and other organisms which are living in the soil. Moreover these compounds are carcinogenic, highly non-degradable in nature and in residual concentrations may cause skin rashes in human beings. In the recent years, malacologists are severely attempting environmentally safe plant based phyto - compounds to control various types of terrestrial molluscan pests. Hence, the present study has been initiated to evaluate the efficacy of some specific plant extracts as molluscicides in controlling the slug Laevicaulis alte by studying their impact on intestine process.

Bondo in Siaya County, Kenya experiences food insecurity due to irregular rainfall patterns and persistent drought. Irrigation farming is a means of solving this problem, but it has low adoption rates. This study examined the socio economic factors responsible for low adoption of irrigation farming among the predominant Christian community in the sub-county. The study used descriptive research design. A random sample of 75 farmers practicing rain fed farming and 75 farmers using irrigation were interviewed. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, gross margins and Chi-Square with emphasis on two major crops grown in the area. Results showed that irrigation had a positive effect on food production with a larger proportion of household members in the irrigated farming receiving higher incomes. Male headed households were better adopters in both irrigated (32%) and rain fed (35%) compared to the female headed household at 4% and 10% in irrigated and rain fed respectively. The age brackets 40-50 years old were better adopters at 68% for males and 41% for females. Married people were better adopters at (41%) in both irrigated and rain fed farming, implying that they are more concerned about food security compared to the other categories studied with only 8% of the younger generation involved in farming activities. Educated people were better adopters of irrigation. Gender and age of the household head also influence adoption of irrigation. These factors are key to adoption of irrigation technologies.

The present paper deals with melissopalynological analysis of honey samples collected from seventeen blocks of Nadia district, West Bengal, India. It showed the dominance of Parthenium sp. pollen in the pollen spectra of honey samples. The weed emerged as prominent pollen type in the spectra of seven ‘unifloral’ honey samples belonging to the blocks of Karimpur-I, Karimpur-II, Nabadwip, Krishnaganj, Hanskhali, Santipur and Ranaghat-I and contributed second highest percentage as individual pollen type in ten ‘multifloral’ honeys belonging to the blocks of Tehatta-I, Tehatta-II, Kaliganj, Nakashipara, Chapra, Krishnagar-I, Krishnagar-II, Ranaghat-II, Chakdah and Haringhata. This result affirms about the preference of bees to the weed as their forage. As most of the crop plants are cross pollinated, the role of the pollinators in crop yield is well documented and bees are considered to be the best performer in relation to the pollination service. In the context of the characteristic behavior of ‘floral fidelity’ of the bees, the findings of the present paper creates concern as presence of the weed Parthenium sp. in the vicinity of the crop field may distract the bees and pose potential hindrance to ensure pollination service to the local crops flowering synchronously.