December 2014

Aim: To compare levels of Streptococus mutans in saliva samples of HIV infected individuals and non-HIV-infected control individuals. Materials and Methods: Subjects were selected from those attending the Department of microbiology of a tertiary care center A total of 100 individuals, 50 HIV-seropositive individuals and 50 HIV-seronegative control individuals, men and women, ages 15 yrs and older were selected for the study and divided into 2 groups-Group 1- 50 HIV-seropositive individuals, Group 2- 50 HIV-seronegative control individuals. All the saliva samples were collected using Spitting method. After collection all the saliva samples were cultured using mitis salivarius bacitracin (MSB) agar which is a selective media for the isolation of Streptococcus mutans. Obtained values were analysed using the Mann-Whitney U, Wilcoxon W and Z-tests. Results: Results showed that S. mutans levels were higher in HIV-infected individuals than in the non-HIV-infected control individuals (p = 0.000). Conclusion: It can be suggested that HIV infection accelerates colonization of S. mutans bacteria.

Introduction: Arthropod-borne viruses or arboviruses are one of the major public health problems worldwide. Out of many arboviruses, chikungunya virus (CHIKV) and dengue virus (DENV) are the two most rapidly spreading arboviruses. Serological investigations in Southern India indicate that the two viruses can co-exist in the same host. Many risk factors for chikungunya virus (CHIKV) and dengue virus (DENV) infections are the same or similar. OBJECTIVES: The present study is conducted to know the seroprevalance of dengue and chikungunya co infection and its clinical correlation. Materials and Methods: The blood samples collected from patients were sent along with details of the patient, clinical findings, and investigations done from various Bangalore city hospitals from the month of January 2013 to December2013, to check for the presence of IgM antibodies in serum against Dengue or Chikungunya were subjected to an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) test to detect the presence of immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies against both CHIKV and DENV. Results: Out of 4296 serum samples studied 205 (7.6%) samples were positive for both Dengue and Chikungunya. Majority of the cases were from the age group of 11-20 years (31.21%). A seasonal peak was seen in the months of June to August. Of the total number of affected cases, 89(43.41%) were females and 116 (56.58%) were males. Fever and was seen in almost all the cases (99 %), thrombocytopenia in 92.17%, and myalgia in 56.1% of seropositive cases. Chills, headache, arthralgia, vomiting were observed in 60.48%, 48.8 %, 40.4% and 35.6% seropositive cases respectively. Features of dengue complications like hypotension, hypoalbuminemia, rising hematocrit and hemorrhagic manifestations were seen in 7.8%, 1.4%, 2.4% and 7.3% cases respectively. Conclusion: With the urbanization that is occurring in India, the incidence of dengue infection is increasing dramatically. With the expectation that cases of co infection with DENV and CHIKV will become more prevalent in the future due to increased transmission of both viruses in various areas of India, enhanced surveillance to clinically and diagnostically differentiate CHIKV and DENV infections is needed for early recognition of virus invasion and local transmission, better patient care, and timely control measures. With clinical examination of CHIKV/DENV coinfected patients has not yet allowed the identification of specific or severe symptoms, such observations should be interpreted with caution. Our findings may add to the recognition of CHIKV/DENV coinfections and suggest that tests to detect the presence of both viruses should be carried out in individuals showing clinical signs of an infection with either CHIKV or DENV.

97 children with different forms of TB and latent TB infection were examined at the University children hospital for pulmonary diseases – Sofia. The children were tested with TST and QFT. Only 9,3% of the children had negative TST and 72,2% reacted with sizes of the infiltrate above 15mm. With QFT 55,7% had positive results. We discovered that the largest share of the children who reacted to both TST и QFT is in the highest age groups. TST sensitivity is 77,7%, while forQFTis 88,9%, which shows greater diagnostic possibilities of QFTGIT. WithQFT 21(55,3%) of the children without BCG scar reacted positively and 33(55,9%) of the children with BCG scar reacted positively, which supports the statement for the efficacy ofQFTintube in cases with compulsory BCG vaccination.In conclusion, we think that QFT GIT together with TST increases the diagnostic possibilities in children with suspected TB disease, as well as for therapy control

Aims and Objectives: Our aim of the study is to compare dexmedetomidine and esmolol as a hypotensive agent in patients posted for middle ear surgery. Material and Methods: 60 patients (ASA physical status I–II), age group of 18–55 years scheduled for middle ear surgery were recruited for study. 30 patients to group E to have Esmolol whereas remaining patients were named “D” have Dexmedetomidin. Group D (n=30) were pre-loaded with Inj. Dexmedetomidine 1 µg/kg over 10 minutes followed by maintenance with 0.4-0.7 µg/kg/hr. Group E (n=30) received Inj. Esmolol 1 mg/kg pre-loading followed by maintenance with 0.4-0.7 mg/kg/hr as per hemodynamics. patients’ cardio-respiratory parameter were continuously observed and recorded. They were also observed for surgical field, time to eye-opening and requirement of another hypotensive agent. Observation and Results: We have observed stable hemodynamics in group D as compare to group E. We have also observed significant less time for eye opening, less requirement of muscle relaxants and inhalational agent and other hypotensive agent. Conclusion: Dexmedetomidine is better option with good stability of hemodynamics and lesser requirements of inhalational and neuromuscular blocking anaesthetic drugs with better post operative outcome.

Study Design and Objective: This was a descriptive cross sectional study aimed to evaluate the behavioral and psychological status of University Students in the period preceding regular exams. Materials and Methods: Questionnaires included several questions were filled by 189 students of both sexes and different university colleges. The data collected was analyzed using SPSS program. Results: Level of concentration during exam periods decreased in 30.7% of students. About 16.9% of students were nervous before exam and about 56.6% were scared. Sleeping hours were irregular in 59.3% of students. About 40% of female students reported menstrual cycle disturbances. Conclusion: Caffeine consumption and lack of regular exercise can aggravate stress-related changes in university students during the period preceding exams.

Objectives: to determine the co-morbidity between anxiety and risk of alcohol and drug abuse among students at the Kenya Medical Training College Methodology: A Social Demographic, BAI and the WHO ASSIST questionnaires were administered to 3107 consenting KMTC students, of whom 1181 (group A) were in Nairobi campus and the remaining1926 (group B) were in peripheral campuses across the country. Results: Prevalence of anxiety in groups A and B were 24.4% and 23.6% for moderate anxiety and 32.1% and 31.5% for severe anxiety. The risk of abuse of all the substances had similar levels except in alcohol which had a significant difference between the 2 groups (p=0.016). There was significant association between co morbidity of anxiety and risk of abuse of; alcohol (p=0.040, P=0.036 in group A and B respectively) and tobacco and cannabis (p=0.022 and p=0.024 in group B respectively). Conclusion: Anxiety and risk of alcohol and drug abuse was prevalent and significantly co-existed among the KMTC students. These findings were similar to those from other regions of the world among college students. This calls for appropriate interventions to promote prevention, control and clinical practices.

Assault cases in the casualty of hospitals are increasing day by day. So the present study was done on the various assault cases reported to the casualty of IMS & SUM Hospital, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India from August 2013 to May 2014, with the aim and objective of obtaining information regarding the current scenario of assault cases in this locality and its fate in this particular hospital. We found that the assault cases contributed 18.46% of all medico-legal cases reported within this period. Males outnumbered females as per the number of assault cases. Age group commonly involved was 21-30 year (31.67%). Most of the cases took place in street (40%), followed by work place (31.67%) and home (21.67%). Police information from the casualty department was given in all cases. In most number of cases the injuries found were due to blunt force (65%), followed by sharp force (18.33%). In majority of cases (56.67%) the injuries were reported as grievous in nature. Majority of patients (66.67%) were discharged within one day of hospital stay. Majority of the patients were completely cured (46.67%), followed by left against medical advice (36.66%). No fatal cases reported in this study period.

Bacterial leaf blight disease of okra caused by Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae is an emerging disease and great threat for production of okra in Rajasthan. A survey was conducted to know the status of bacterial leaf blight of okra in terms of its incidence and severity and to characterize the pathogen causing the disease. Eighty nine seed samples of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) Moench were collected from 15 major okra growing districts of Rajasthan and subjected to dry seed examination. All the seed samples were categorised as asymptomatic, bold discoloured and heavily discoloured seeds collected during 2011; 2012 and 2013 growing seasons of okra. The samples were collected from farmer’s field, market and farm storage (houses). Eighty nine seed samples of okra belongings to 15 districts of Rajasthan, India revealed asymptomatic (15.25-83.75%), bold discoloured (07.5-54.25%) and heavily discoloured seeds (02.25-34.75%) in dry seed examination. The discoloured seeds included brown black or water soaked symptoms and such seeds on incubation yielded the bacterium. At seedling stage, seedling shows failure or delayed seeds germination, bacterial oozing and rotting that resulting collapse of hypocotyls and cotyledonary leaves that resulting seedling mortality. So the seed losses seed germination, seedling are symptomatic that increase seedling mortality. High incidence of pathogen was found in Jhalawar, Jaipur, Kota, Sawai Madhopur and Bharatpur. Twenty four bacterial isolates were obtained from the infected seeds and plant material collected from field during the survey. Pathogenicity test on host plant leaves confirmed the bacterium was Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae (PSS) but HR test (hypersensitivity test) in tobacco leaves with pathogen isolates showed weak positive reaction of tissues where infiltrated. The causal bacterium was also characterized by biochemical tests and results of the all the tests revealed that the causal organism of leaf blight disease of okra was Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae.

T-2 toxin is a member of trichothecene mycotoxin. The major toxic effect of T-2 toxin is that it inhibit protein synthesis which is followed by a secondary disruption of DNA and RNA synthesis. T-2 toxin affects the actively first through skin and it causes heamatotoxicity, neurotoxicity, reproductive toxicity, genotoxicity and it can decrease antibody levels, immunoglobolines and certain other humoral factors. In addition, in this review article discussed about outbreaks of T-2 toxin and its biosynthesis, toxicokinetics regulatory matters related to its use as a potential warfare and treatment.

This study is done to inquire the change in livelihood situation of the people belonged to Hura block of Purulia district. The study revealed that successful implementation of the NREGS has increased the mean annual income by 51.52 to 112.97 percent over the previous situation of without NREGS. This enhanced the socio-economic status of the beneficiary households as well as boosted their self-esteem and self-confidence. The average wage earned by the NREGS worker varies from Rs.85 to Rs.120 per day depending upon the phase of work. The wage rate increases with the advancement of phase of work. Around, 85 percent of the respondents utilize the increased income in building new houses or in daughter’s marriage. The biggest problem confronted by the beneficiaries is untimely payment of wages followed by the distance of work place from the residence. According to the implementing agencies the most severe problem is lack of adequate and devoted administrative and technical staff resulting in procedural lapses.

DNA damage, due to environmental factors and normal metabolic processes inside the cell, occurs at a rate of 10,000 to 1,000,000 molecular lesions per cell per day.[1] While this constitutes only 0.000165% of the human genome's approximately 6 billion bases (3 billion base pairs), unrepaired lesions in critical genes (such as tumor suppressor genes) can impede a cell's ability to carry out its function and appreciably increase the likelihood of tumor formation and contribute to tumour heterogeneity. The vast majority of DNA damage affects the primary structure of the double helix; that is, the bases themselves are chemically modified. These modifications can in turn disrupt the molecules' regular helical structure by introducing non-native chemical bonds or bulky adducts that do not fit in the standard double helix. Unlike proteins and RNA, DNA usually lacks tertiary structure and therefore damage or disturbance does not occur at that level. DNA is, however, super coiled and wound around "packaging" proteins called histones (in eukaryotes), and both superstructures are vulnerable to the effects of DNA damage. Cells annot function if DNA damage corrupts the integrity and accessibility of essential information in the genome (but cells remain superficially functional when so-called "non-essential" genes are missing or damaged). Depending on the type of damage inflicted on the DNA's double helical structure, a variety of repair strategies have evolved to restore lost information. If possible, cells use the unmodified complementary strand of the DNA or the sister chromatid as a template to recover the original information. Without access to a template, cells use an error-prone recovery mechanism known as translesion synthesis as a last resort. Damage to DNA alters the spatial configuration of the helix, and such alterations can be detected by the cell. Once damage is localized, specific DNA repair molecules bind at or near the site of damage, inducing other molecules to bind and form a complex that enables the actual repair to take place. Dynamic programming can be useful in aligning nucleotide to protein sequences, a task complicated by the need to take into account frame shift mutations (usually insertions or deletions). The frame search method produces a series of global or local pair wise alignments between a query nucleotide sequence and a search set of protein sequences, or vice versa. Its ability to evaluate frame shifts offset by an arbitrary number of nucleotides makes the method useful for sequences containing large numbers of indels, which can be very difficult to align with more efficient heuristic methods. In practice, the method requires large amounts of computing power or a system whose architecture is specialized for dynamic programming. The BLAST and EMBOSS suites provide basic tools for creating translated alignments (though some of these approaches take advantage of side-effects of sequence searching capabilities of the tools). More general methods are available from both commercial sources, such as Frame Search, distributed as part of the Accelrys GCG package, and Open Source software such as Genewise. The dynamic programming method is guaranteed to find an optimal alignment given a particular scoring function; however, identifying a good scoring function is often an empirical rather than a theoretical matter. Although dynamic programming is extensible to more than two sequences, it is prohibitively slow for large numbers of or extremely long sequences [2]. Sequence alignment is a way of arranging the sequences of DNA, RNA, or protein to identify regions of similarity that may be a consequence of functional, structural, or evolutionary relationships between the sequences [3]. Aligned sequences of nucleotide or amino acid residues are typically represented as rows within a matrix. Gaps are inserted between the residues so that identical or similar characters are aligned in successive columns.

The turbidity and pH are two key factors in any aquatic ecosyatems. The present paper highlights the seasonal variations of turbidity and pH in Tamiraparani River (West) from June 2011 to May 2013. Twelve stations were selected for the study. The study reveals that high turbidity of 5.5 NTU was found in Station 9 (S9) during the months June-Aug (2011 and 2012), Sept-Nov (2011and 2012) and Mar-May (2013), and low turbidity of 0.2 NTU was found in stations S1, S3, S4, S5 during Dec to Feb (2011, 2012) and Mar-May (2012).The pH was found to be acidic (below 7) in all the seasons. However, higher pH level was found during bothmonsoon seasons in all the station studied. The fluctuation in pH due to rain water influx is also discussed. The turbidity and pH was found to be significantly correlated (r=0.6780) in the 7th degree polynomial fit and the relationship established and discussed.

Groundnut is the most important rich source of protein, minerals and vitamin. Pre-harvest contamination is influenced by soil moisture and temperature. Field experiments were conducted in northern Ethiopia, at two locations to determine the effect of soil solarization on yield and yield components of groundnut varieties, and to determine Aspergillus spp. inoculum in the soil. Soil samples were taken in three rounds and analyzed for aflatoxigenic population. Soil solarization reduced fungal inoculum and increased groundnut yields. Individual and total Cfu g-1of soil was determined before, after solarization and at harvest. Four Aspergillus species namely, A. flavus, A. parasiticus, A. niger and A. terreus were identified and their densities were significantly (P<0.05) reduced at after solarization. In the solarized plots, A. flavus and A. parasiticus were found reduced by 53.8 and 45% cfu g-1 at Ramma and 36.4 and 44% cfu g-1at 5 and 10 cm soil depths at Mayweyni, respectively, after soil solarization in the solarized plots than the nonsolarized plots. At harvest, Fusarium spp., A. flavus and A. terreus were detected. Pod yields were found increased by 265.6 kg ha-1 and 182.22 kg ha-1on solarized plots at Mayweyni and Ramma respectively. Increase in yield related parameters (14.8% increase in number of seed per plant and 71.4% increase in number of pods per plant) were found from early planting dates as compared to later planting time at Mayweyni. Generally, yields varied across locations; mean pod yield in Mayweyni was 360.9 kg ha-1higher than the yield in Ramma.

This investigation describes the present status, distribution and various factors affecting growth of Salvadora oleoides Decne in Haryana. Population survey was carried out based upon questionnaire method. 150 people in the age group of 20 to 65 years from educational background were involved in questionnaire. Survey concluded the high risk of extinction of Salvadora oleoides in all the districts. Risk was observed due to anthropogenic disturbance and destruction of the natural habitat of the species. Besides this invasion by exotic species was also a major cause of decline in population of Salvadora oleoides. Present investigation reported that Salvadora oleoides was present as dominant species only in some groves situated in south west districts of Haryana. Salvadora oleoides in Haryana is now characterized by restricted distribution only in some major groves.

Experiment was conducted, during rainy season of 2006, 2007 and 2008 with NPK (20 kg N, 60 kg P2O5 and 40 kg K2O/ha), half recommended NPK, Biozyme granule @ 20, 30, and 40 kg/ha alone and along with half recommended NPK and Biozyme crop+ spray @ 200 and 400 ml/ha alone and along with half recommended NPK. At 60 DAS, Biozyme crop+ spray @ 400ml/ha + half of recommended NPK resulted highest number of trifoliate leaves (28.13 leaves/plant), leaf area (1814.21 cm²/plant), LAI (5.945), and total chlorophyll content (1.99 mg/g leaf fresh weight) which stood 3.57, 2.97, 3.17 and 16.13 % higher over recommended NPK, respectively. Similarly, 400 ml Biozyme crop+ with half of recommended NPK maintained, 9.01, 6.27, 5.41, 12.91 and 3.42 % higher branches/plant, pods/plant, seeds/pod and seed yield/plant and increased the seed yield by 8.54%, straw yield by 26.43% and biological yield by 17.13%, respectively over recommended NPK. Biozyme spray 400 ml/ha increased N uptake by 12.17, P uptake by 4.59 over recommended NPK. Higher Nutrient Harvest Index and Physiological Efficiency Indices observed under sole treatments of Biozyme.

Seaweeds are considered as ecologically and biologically important component in the marine ecosystems. Seaweeds make a substantial contribution to marine primary production and provide habitat for near shore benthic communities. Present status of seaweed diversity and temporal variation in their abundance along Tuticorin coastal waters were investigated. Fortnightly seaweed sampling was conducted for the period of five months from July 2014 to November 2014. Seaweed showed significant variation in its abundance and ranged from minimum 248 numbers of seaweed during September month to 953 numbers during November. In total 86 seaweed species belonging to 14 orders, 22 family and 36 genera were recorded. Rhodophyceae represented as dominant seaweed phylum with 32 species belonging to 7 order, 11 family and 18 genera followed by Chlorophyceae (27 species belonging to 3 order, 7 family and10 genera) and Phaeophyceae (27 species belonging to 4 order, 4 family and 8 genera). Caulerpa and Ulvawere were dominant genera along the Tuticorin coast followed by Gracilaria, Sargassum and Padina. Temporal variability in various diversity indices were calculated by using PRIMER v6 software. The calculated value ranges of biodiversity indices were: Shannon–Wiener diversity (H’) ranged from 3.91 to 4.38, Margalef’s species richness (‘d’) was from 11.32 to 15.18, Pielou’s evenness (J’) was in the range of 0.9727 to 0.9858 and the Bray-Curtis similarity found maximum between July and August (89.92%) followed by August and November (88.11%). Higher values for biodiversity indices indicated healthy nature of seaweed ecosystem along Tuticorin coastal waters. Present research report can provide basic information for commercial exploitation of seaweed resources along Tuticorin coastal waters.

Mesta is one of the most important lingo-cellulosic bast fibre crop providing high amount of biomass, however, fibre yield is exceedingly low. It is a multipurpose crop having both domestic and industrial uses and prospects immensely in biofuel manufacturing, carbon trading and subsequently in maintenance of soil fertility. Unfortunately predominant use of synthetic fibres globally reducing its demand drastically. It is a very hardy crop owing to its vigorous growth with considerable drought tolerance. As it is grown as an orphan crop virtually under near zero management no serious efforts has been made to genetically improvise its productivity except some sporadic efforts through exploration to collect diverse germplasm and selection of superior stocks. Meagre efforts have been made to make superior lines even through hybridization. Deployment of modern tools and techniques as embodied in the frontier science like plant biotechnology is virtually nil. The present article narrates the till date achievements made through some systematic scientific interventions and efforts have been made to display diverse avenues through, which this important crop can be improvised endowed with premium quality fibre and other trait enrichment and thus to harness the benefits of this green technology with concurrent attainment of farm prosperity in a remunerative-scale.

Invertebrates are dependent on cellular and humoral immune defences against microbial infection. Scylla serrata is an important commercial species of crab, but the fundamental knowledge on its immune defense related to the immune-associated reactions is still lacking. This study was undertaken to determine the antibacterial activities of serum from the mud crab, Scylla serrata against three different bacterial strains. Bacterial cultures were treated with different volumes serum from Scylla serrata and the growth was monitored by optical density at 450 nm. In addition, the serum was treated with protease to determine the mechanism of antibacterial activities. Treatment of bacterial cultures with serum from mud crab, Scylla serrata resulted in a volume-dependent decrease in bacterial growth. Cultures of M. lysodeikticus, exhibited strong growth inhibition by serum of Scylla serrata, while cultures of Vibrio furnissi and Vibrio damsel were nearly completely obliterated for 24 h by only 10% (v/v) serum. The antibacterial activity of Scylla serrata serum occurred very rapidly, as 18% of M. lysodeikticus growth was inhibited by a five min exposure to serum. Furthermore the bacteriolytic activity detected in the presence of phosphate buffer was significantly higher than that observed with, thereby indicating the suitability of phosphate buffer for assay of bacteriolytic activity.

Nowadays, regarding to motor vehicle roll in air pollution in major cities, evaluating the contaminant from vehicles is a critical. Therefore, in this study the contaminant of hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide produced by Pride Saba and 405 Peugeot were checked during the years 2006-2010. Primary data was collected from light vehicles inspection centers. Also it is used for statistical analysis and compared mean values by Excel software and Duncan's multiple range test at a confidence level of 5% (p <0.05). The results showed that peugeot, compared to Pride, produces more carbon monoxide significantly, while it creates lower levels of pollutants, hydrocarbons and carbon dioxide. The decline in the emissions of hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide, unlike carbon dioxide, of both vehicles were inspected among 2006-2010. Since carbon dioxide, are not among the pollutants measured in safety inspection centers, Pride Saba is a better vehicle in point of energy and environmental standards compared Peugeot 405. We hope to solve air pollution problem in the near future by regularly review and improve the technical performance of domestic vehicles.

Species richness, diversity and distribution pattern of tree species were studied along a disturbance gradient in three mixed broad leaved forests. The forests were selected on the basis of varying disturbance intensities and were categorized into highly disturbed (HD), moderately disturbed (MD) and least disturbed (LD). A total of 34 tree species (belonging to 30 genera and 21 families) were reported along the disturbance gradient. Both tree species richness and diversity markedly declined along the disturbance gradient from LD to HD forests. Maximum species richness (20) was reported from LD while minimum (11) from HD forest. Shannon Wiener index (2.30-3.34), Margalef’s index (2.59-4.11), Menheink’s index (1.60-1.99) were maximum in LD and minimum in HD forests. Species richness and diversity indices showed significant negative relation with disturbance. Diversity-dominance (d-d) curve showed high equitability in LD forest while high dominance in MD and HD forests. More than 90% of tree species showed contagious distribution that is the most common distribution pattern in nature but it did not show any definite trend along the disturbance gradient. Low maturity value and contagious distribution of species denote the early successional status of the studied forests. The present study reveals that the anthropogenic disturbance causes disruption of forest structure and changes species composition which ultimately leads to reduction of tree species richness and diversity which is a major forest component.

Whole plant of Toddalia asiatica were selected to evaluate antioxidant activities and invitro cytotoxic activity using commonly accepted assays. They were extracted with chloroform, methanol and petroleum ether respectively and selected for the best antioxidant and cytotoxic results. Flavonoids, such as quercetin, rutin, and antioxidant BHA (Butylated Hydroxyanisole) were included and used as standards in this study. For all the assays concentrations of samples are maintained from 62.5 to 1000 µg/ml. Each sample under assay condition showed a dose-dependent antioxidant effect of DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl hydrazyl radical), FRAP (Ferric reducing ability of plasma) and LPO (Lipid peroxidation inhibitory activity). Among the crude plant extracts, Methanol extract showed stronger IC50 values in antioxidant studies in DPPH and LPO methods. IC50 of Methanolic extract in DPPH is 500 ±0.00 followed by Pet.ether and Chloroform, IC50 of Pet.ether extract in LPO is 300±0.00 followed by Chloroform and Methanol. Overall FRAP absorbance range is 0.051 – 0.472, all the extracts showed moderate reducing power. The extracts also showed dose dependent cytotoxic effect on normal (Vero) and cancer cell lines (HaCaT,A549,HeLa,HT-29) when analyzed by MTT assay. Of the different crude extracts, extracts demonstrated maximum cytotoxicity to cancer cell lines, CTC50 values ranging from 116.67± 5.8 to 710 ± 10, and all the extracts showed high toxicity toward normal cell line Vero. Nearly all cancer cells could be killed by extracts, where as small fractions of cells from cancer cell lines showed resistance even at much higher concentrations.

The experiment site was conducted under mist chamber at Horticulture Research Center, HNB Garhwal Central University, Chauras Campus Srinagar (Garhwal), Uttarakhand, India. The different length stems cuttings (20, 35 and 50 cm) of Ticoma stans L treated with IBA solutions at 500, 1000 and 1500 mg. L-1 by Quick dip method. Treated cutting were planted carefully in the root trainers. For preparing rooting media one part sandy soil and one part of FYM Were mixed thoroughly. Among all the treatments, highest number of sprouted cuttings (100%) was recorded under C1L2, C2L2, C3L2 (35 cm long cutting treated with 500 ppm, 1000 ppm and 1500 ppm concentration of IBA respectively) treatments, length of sprout (10.18 cm) was found under C3L3 (50 cm long cutting treated with 1500 ppm IBA) treatment. diameter of sprout (0.26), number of leaves on new growth (5.59), height of plant (72.44 cm), number of primary roots (18.66%), length of root (10.53 cm), diameter of root (0.11 cm), fresh weight of root (0.79 gm) and dry weight of root (0.094 gm) were found under C3L3 (50 cm long cutting treated with 1500 ppm concentration of IBA) treatment.

Sports accomplishments are determined by a progressive training program, adequate physical fitness, a well balanced diet and sound mind. Team sports like hockey and football are physically demanding contact sports with high intensity sprints, place a unique physical and mental demand upon its players, which when understood will enable a more scientific approach to performance. This study aimed to analyze and compare the nutritional, physical fitness and anxiety profile of the hockey and football players. About 43 and 38 male collegiate hockey and football players were selected during an intercollegiate tournament and assessed through anthropometry, diet survey, Aapherd physical fitness tests and Marten’s SCAT Scale for anxiety. The results showed that the majority of the hockey players were staying in hostel and were from low income families. Except height and muscle mass, a non significant difference was observed in other anthropometric measurements between the groups (165±15, 170.55±6.08cm and 52.51±7.47, 49.99±8.63 Kg). The muscular strength, agility and flexibility were better in hockey players. 47% of the football players were found to be less anxious than hockey players (25%). A significant difference in anxiety was found between the groups. Periodical nutrition and psychological counseling by trained professionals is essential along with regular training to improve the player’s health, nutritional status, physical fitness and to reduce anxiety inturn promote their athletic performance.

Development of plant in vitro regeneration protocols has significantly contributed to research investigations and rapid propagation in commercial scale. However, due to considerable variations among plants, the technique encounters various hurdles. Major challenges are encountered during the micropropagation of woody plants, due to their range of secondary metabolites. Tissue and media browning, systemic contamination, vitrification, shoot tip necrosis (STN), tissue fasciations, somaclonal variations are some of the commonly encountered problems. Researchers in the recent years introduced various novel and unique protocols to eradicate these challenges, like nanosilver mediated sterilization, various new culture media for woody plant propagation, discovery of many new natural PGR having better properties like tapolins, diethyl aminoethyl hexanoate (DA-6), thidiazuron (TDZ) etc. have contributed immensely to the development of the subject. Although the basic concept of plant tissue culture remains same, the interpretation is subjected to development from time to time.

Seasonal variations of physico-chemical parameters such as rainfall, temperature, alkalinity, nitrite, nitrate, phosphate, sulphate and fluoride were studied from two different coastal water bodies of south east coast of India viz., Uppanar estuary, Cuddalore and Periyavaikal area of Killai region, Cuddalore District, Tamilnadu southeast coast of India for one calendar year. The results significantly increased levels of most of the parameters at Uppanar estuary than Killai backwaters throughout the year. There were significant variations among the parameters at various months / seasons within each of the study sites also. The spatio-temporal variations observed among the physicochemical parameters of the two study sites indicate the ecological degradation of Uppanar estuary.

Water, fish and earthworm samples collected from Enerhen and Otokutu areas along the Warri River were analytically treated and analysed for trace metals using atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS) of Model Perkin. Elmer 311 A. A total of twelve sample points were mapped out in both Enerhen and Otokutu areas. This study was carried out for a period of six months (July – December). The results obtained showed that all the metals analysed were detected and varied from one point to another. Lowest trace metal values were obtained in water samples whereas highest mean metal values were recorded in fish samples. This is an indication that vertebrates accumulate more metals than invertebrates. Chromium, lead and iron concentrations in water exceeded the WHO limits for drinking water indicating that the water is not fit for drinking. Also, Cadmium, Copper and Lead mean values in the fish and earthworm in this study far exceeded the recommended Daily Intakes Set by Food Standards Australia New Zealand. A critical look at the results further revealed that earthworm accumulates copper levels more than the fish. This is because earthworm is a bioindicator for the availability of Copper in ecosystems. Highest mean concentrations of iron were obtained in water, fish and earthworm in that order. These elevated iron levels are attributed to activities of the Delta Steel Company located around Warri.

According to economic-technical optimization objective of distribution network to which distributed generation is added, a multi-objective model is proposed in this paper. The model contains DG construction investment and operation fee, network loss, reliability, as well as environmental factor. and then puts forward the multi-objective quantum particle swarm optimization (QSPO) algorithm, and the distributed power supply after installation position and capacity for the comprehensive planning research. The result proves that QPSO has advantages of speedy searching for the optimum and keeping the population diversity. Compared to Particle Swarms Optimization (PSO), QSPO shows high efficiency and robustness.

Prediction of human behavior in a disaster is a useful role in the design of urban structures such as department stores, schools, and office buildings. In this study, we develop a mixed reality game system linking a multi-agent simulation for behavioral evaluation of evacuees. We use a multi-agent simulation to evaluate the behavior of persons evacuating a floor given as many rules as possible. We use the mixed reality game to evaluate the complex and distinctive behavior of individual players in the game. This paper presents the characteristics of the developed game system, and presents the performance of the game system as a case study using an actual floor layout. In addition, we evaluate the effectiveness of emergency exit signs to manage the evacuees’ escape from the floor.

Options are considered risky for investors and speculators due to fluctuation in the direction of price movements. An investor has to face the risk of profits where it may be extremely high or loss, here investors fail in choosing profitable options. The study is made to minimize the risk of investors by using straps option combination strategy in choosing profitable investment strategy and to know how the option combination strategy would be profitable when market moves up or down. The study has considered the securities of both increasing and decreasing prices, so that it would be possible to give suggestions for investors that how in both cases they can make profits.

Since independence, Cooperative movement in Kenya has experienced tremendous growth and is actually ranked first in Africa (Sacco Societies Regulatory Authority, 2011). Through the support of the government, the movement has produced some of the biggest players in provision of saving and credit services both to the rural and urban population in Kenya. Since the formalities involved in the formation of the SACCOs are simple, and due to their popularity, the government has continued to register more of these forms of organizations. Although Cooperatives have been there for a long time, poverty is still prevalent amongst the rural population in Kenya. The research objective was to explore the role of Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies in creating wealth for their members in Limuru Sub County of Kiambu County in Kenya. Wealth created to the individual member was measured by the asset such member acquired since joining the SACCO. Descriptive research design was applied. The study population comprised of members of SACCOs in Limuru Sub County where a random sample of five percent of all the members were investigated. Both primary and secondary data was used as sources of data. Primary data was collected using a semi-structured questionnaire distributed to the sampled group. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used to analyze the data. Descriptive statistics especially, frequencies and standard deviations was applied. Inferential statistics especially regression analysis was run to help establish, trends and relationships, and which made it easier for the researcher to understand and interpret implications of the study. Pie charts and tables have been used to represent data in a pictorial format, which could be easily used and understood by other users. The research findings established that SACCOs play an important role in wealth creation in the Sub County. The most among the four variables tested, loans acquired by members from the SACCOs contribute most to the wealth creation of such a member. The research recommended that women and youth be encouraged to join SACCOs in the region. The conclusion of the research was that all the independent variables contributed positively to the dependent variable.

The main objectives of the present study were to show the spatial distribution of Primary Health Centres in the Haripad Block of Kerala and to investigate the patients’ perception regarding the services provided by the Primary Health Centres. Spatial distribution of Primary Health Centres was shown with the help of GIS mapping. Out of eight Primary Health Centres of the Block, five of them were selected by lottery method of simple random sampling for the present study. A pre designed schedule was used for the generation of primary data. The collected information was compiled, tabulated and analysed by using standard statistical methods. The main factors affecting the utilization of primary health care services in Haripad Block were easy accessibility, availability of medicine etc. The major problems of all sampled Primary Health Centres were the less number of doctors, absence of doctors from services, the lack of sanitary facilities and other infrastructure such as inpatients room, lab, bed etc.

The purpose of this study was to assess the perception of external auditors towards internal audit practices of private sector in Ethiopia. There were 63 audit firms registered in Federal Office of Auditor General in 2013. 140 questionnaires were distributed to external auditors from which 43 were collected. Descriptive statistics was employed to analyze the data using statistical package for social science (SPSS). The study found that independence of internal auditors was not maintained in Ethiopian private sector. Furthermore, the proficiency of internal audit function is low which negatively affects their contribution to quality audit services. It also found, internal audit functions in private sector mainly provide assurance service but, their consulting role is minimal.

The main purpose of this study is to assess the effectiveness of training provided in the Northern Command Training Center that is found in a place called Edaga Hamus – in Northern eastern parts of Ethiopia. Methodologically, this study is based on mixed/qualitative and quantitative/ approach of study. The subjects of this study include 125 individuals who participated in the training, 18 immediate commandants of the participants and 1 Deputy Commander of NCTC- interviewed and 10 instructors participated on Focus Group Discussion (FGD). Totally, 139 respondents were the subjects of this study. Operationally, the study was based on analysis of the primary data sources collected using structured questioner, semi-structured interviews with key informants, FGD and analyses of documents and personal observation. The findings of this research showed lack of proper design of curriculum based on systematic training need assessments. shortage in establishment of suitable mechanisms that help to trace factors that causative for less effectiveness of the training and lack of practicing appropriate training management system as key factors that contributed for less effectiveness of the training program launched by the center. The study recommends making curriculum revision with assistance of professionals. Launching of different capacity building programs for trainers in systematic and serious mode of training is very critical. Establishing relationships with universities that are available around the training center such as Adigrat university and working together on capacity building of the trainers specially on learning methodology and curriculum development and methods of training quality are important. It is also good to find ways to assist the learning and teaching process with IT and modern training simulators and to establish mechanisms that help to collect feedback from unit commanders about the practical performance of the trainees after they returned back to their units.

The following research investigates the identity negotiations in the life of a Facebook user. The important research question is ‘how’ a young active Facebook user alters or extends his circle of significant other. With respect to the data collected and analyzed, it was interesting to observe that the process of significance developed between the user and his significant other is primarily due to Facebook chat. Facebook “events” and “messages” were extensively used for effective computer mediated communication. The results showed that there was a clear gender related differences with respect to reasons of high social activities on Facebook. These findings were later correlated with NEO-PI-R personality test.

The physical well-being of an individual is related closely to his status of nutrition. Good nutrition is essential in childhood for optimal growth and performance in school. Under nutrition retards physical and mental growth which in turn, lowers efficiency in education and work. So, nutrition is one of the most important factors in the vital activity of man. Macro nutrients i.e. proteins, carbohydrates and fats are the most important nutrients required by the body and should be supplied in adequate amounts in the diet. The main objective of the study was to determine the macro nutrients status among government and private school boys of Delhi. The study was conducted on 700 adolescent boys of govt. and private schools. Out of which 350 children were taken from government schools and 350 from private schools. For obtaining the data on dietary intake i.e., One day recall method recommended by Norris(1949), ICMR (1951), Acheson et al. (1980), Chawla, (1992), was used. The researcher found that the macro nutrients status was found higher in both govt. and private schools than ICMR (Indian Council of Medical Research) recommendation. Macro nutrient status was found higher in private school boys in comparison of govt. school boys. As a preventive measure it is strongly suggested that these growing boys rationalize their fat intake.

The study examined the determinant factors for the use of Information Technology in decision making. Questionnaires were prepared and administered in selected business Organizations. Data were interpreted and analysed using the appropriate statistical methods and application software. Descriptive statistics technique, logit model with support STATA 12 was used to analysis and interprets the survey data.The use of information technology in business organization affected by Age of manager, experiences of business organization, gender of manager, experiences, training, affordability, Organization size, education, sales volume determinant factors of Information Technology use. The results show that the organization under study use Information Technology in their Decision Making operation but not the modern one in terms of the use of decision support IS and Executive Information system.

The influencing factors may include advertisement, friends, parents, etc. the buying behavior and spending pattern of students go hand in hand. Once they decide what to buy, they automatically decide how much to spend. When they decide what to buy-advertisements, friends, parents and various other factors play a very important role. Prominent among them are advertisements and friends. Advertisers through television can reach a whole spectrum of consumers.

Climate change can be exacerbated by human induced actions such as: the widespread use of land, the broad scale deforestation, the major technological and socioeconomic shifts with reduced reliance on organic fuel, and the accelerated Uptake of fossil fuels. Farmers’ knowledge about their soils and their management constitutes a complex wisdom system, which if integrated with modern soil science, could provide the necessary synergy for sustainable agricultural development and to adapt climate change. The very purpose of this research was to assess the perception of farmers on the prevalence of climate change/ climate variability, the strategies they adapt to mitigate it and the barriers they face to use their traditional practice (indigenous knowledge). A survey study was undertaken in two Tabias (Mayliham and Genfel) of Tigray Region to ascertain on how farmers use their indigenous knowledge to adapt climate change. It was found that farmers understand that there is a clear change of the climate indicators such as river volume, start date of rain, access of fodder, increase in pests and invasive plants etc. The finding further reveals that farmers are enriched with numerous long-aged practices of climate change adaptation. The researchers have further ensured that though farmers are endowed with such indigenous knowledge, very small attention is given by the government and development agents on this regard. So the concerned bodies should give room for these practices while they are formulating and implementing policy (especially agricultural policy). Further, awareness creation campaign, for farmers, and pre-warning system should be established.

Various studies have shown that hearing impaired individuals lack access to HIV/AIDS information due to problems of communication. This study was therefore designed to assess knowledge of HIV/AIDS and risk behaviour among secondary school students with and without hearing impairment in Ibadan, Nigeria. This comparative cross-sectional study involved 520 students (260 students with and 260 students without hearing impairment). A self-administered questionnaire was used for data collection. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square and t-test. Mean ages of the students without hearing and with hearing impairment were 14.9 ±1.8 years and 16.9 ± 2.9 years respectively. Mean knowledge score of HIV/AIDS was higher among the students without hearing impairment (33.1 ± 4.3) compared with their peers with hearing impairment (30.1 ± 4.8). About 49.2% of the students with hearing impairment were sexually active compared with 25.8% of their peers without hearing impairment. More of the students with hearing impairment (57.8%) considered themselves to be at risk of contracting HIV infection. Students with hearing impairment compared with their non-hearing impaired peers were more sexually active and less access to HIV/AIDS information. Knowledge of HIV/AIDS among students with hearing impairment may be enhanced by HIV awareness programmes and printed materials.

Improvement in the health and nutritional status of the population has been one of the major thrust areas for the social development programmers of the country. In developing countries like India childbirth is one of the important events affecting health of a woman. Using the unit data from NFHS-3, this paper examined the pregnancy complications among married women and their health seeking behaviour in rural Uttar Pradesh. Bi-variate and multivariate analysis are used to examine the interrelationship between pregnancy complications and use of health care services by socio-economic characteristics of the women. The results showed a high prevalence of pregnancy complications among the women in rural Uttar Pradesh. More than one-third ever married women had reported of having any kind of pregnancy complications. Bivariate results showed that pregnancy complications were reported higher among the women who received more health care services such as full antenatal care, home visit of health workers and visit to health facility. However, the pregnancy complications were found less if any health worker visited to home. The study also reveals that women’s education, economic status of the household and visit by health worker plays a vital role in influencing the woman’s health problems during pregnancy.

Cultured mouse melanoma cells were removed from incubation to room temperature and injected with either 1 μM of morphine or its mu-receptor antagonist naloxone, or, not treated. Photon emissions were counted measured by a photomultiplier unit for 24 hr. Cells injected with morphine exhibited conspicuous bursts of photon emissions whose amplitudes were as much as 1000 times greater than naloxone-injected or non-treated comparison cells with durations of about 10 s for about one hour. The peaks of the photon bursts in cells injected with morphine were approximately 10-11 W•m-2 and could involve the synchronized release of energy from all or most of the million cells in the population. The average photon emissions for these cells remained 6 fold greater for 24 hrs. If the multiple spikes and maintained elevation of photon emissions from the morphine-injected but not naloxone-injected or non-treated cells comprise a form of inter-cell communication this phenomenon may partially explain the propensity for morphine treatment to elicit proliferation and metastases in some malignant environments.

Oral submucous fibrosis is a chronic inflammatory disease that results in progressive juxtaepithelial fibrosis of the oral soft tissues that can cause increasing difficulty in chewing, swallowing, speaking, and mouth opening. Many treatment regimens for oral submucous fibrosis have been proposed to alleviate the signs and symptoms of the disorder. In severe cases, surgical intervention is the only treatment modality, but relapse is a major problem. Even after 6 decades of its description as a separate entity, no concrete treatment is available due to its multi-modal pathogenesis. Thus, adding to the morbidity associated with it. Current article is an attempt to compile the available treatment aids, their current status and future perspectives, so as to aid early intervention of the disease.

Splenic complications during the acute attack of malaria ranges from benign Splenomegaly to more serious complication includes splenic infarct, haematoma, abscess,rupture(spontaneous).Rupture of Spleen is a rare life threatening complication that occurs during the acute attack of malaria that imposes diagnostic challenge to clinicians particularly in endemic area. So our aim is to make aware of clinicians about this fatal complication which requires high index of suspicion and timely intervention which can save the life of a patient. Here we report case of spontaneous rupture of Spleen in an adult male patient.

Ankylosing spondylosis belongs to a group of Rheumatic disease known as Spondyloarthopathies, which show a strong association with genetic marker HLA- B27. Inflamatory back pain and stiffness are prominent early in the disease where as chronic aggressive disease may produce pain and marked axial Immobility and deformity. In modern medicine there is no promising treatment for the disease. In Ayurveda, it can be co-related to Pristha – graha which can be treated as Vata – Kapha disease. Virechan Karma followed by Basti therapy (Dashamula Niruha and Sahachar taila Anubasan) were administered for that case. Here Basti therapy was applied in Karma Basti schedule and 3 such schedule were performed. After 4 months of completion of the study, all sign and symptoms of Ankylosing spondylosis were diminished. From this result the author had tried the same protocol in other three cases of Ankylosing spondylosis which is also very significant. Further study should be carried out in large sample to establish the rule of said therapy on this particular disease.

A simple, precise, sensitive and accurate first order derivative spectrophotometric method was developed and validated for the simultaneous estimation of cefpodoxime proxetil and ambroxol hydrochloride in combined tablet dosage form. For determination ofsampling wavelengths, each of cefpodoxime proxetil and ambroxol hydrochloride were scanned in the wavelength range 200–400 nm in spectrum mode and sampling wavelengths were selected at 234.3 nm (zero crossing of cefpodoxime proxetil) where ambroxol hydrochloride showed considerable absorbance and at 248.2 nm (zero crossing of ambroxol hydrochloride) where cefpodoxime proxetil showed considerable absorbance. Beer’s law obeyed in the concentration range of 8-40 µg/ml for cefpodoxime proxetil and 5-25 µg/ml for ambroxol hydrochloride respectively. The correlation coefficients were found to be 0.995and 0.998 for cefpodoxime proxetil and for ambroxol hydrochloride respectively. Mean recoveries were found satisfactory.

Background: As with the profile of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) due to directly observe treatment, short course (DOTS), there is no report available in patients receiving anti tuberculosis (antiTB) chemotherapy in Warangal region, Telangana, India. One of the main reasons for non-adherence to antiTB therapy (ATT) is adverse drug reactions (ADRs), even under DOTS. Objective: This main objective of the study was to determine the incidence and prognosis of ADRs due to DOTS therapy, and to evaluate their impact on anti-TB treatment in Warangal district, Telangana State. Methods: A prospective population-based study was performed from January 2014-August 2014. Sputum smear positive pulmonary tuberculosis patients who received DOTS therapy were included and followed up for six months. The suspected ADRs were recorded. Results: A total of 120 Tuberculosis patients were included in this study. 70 patients (58.3%) showed at least one ADR due to anti tubercular regimens. The incidence (count) of ADR based on affected organ was: gastrointestinal disorders in 35 patients (41.17%), anemia in 30 patients (42.85%), ototoxicity and giddiness in 19 patients (27.14%), Liver dysfunction in 17 patients (24.28%), allergic reactions in 12 patients (17.14%), Muscle weakness in 11 patients (12.94%). No ADRs were observed in CVS. Most cases of ADRs (53%) had a good clinical outcome. Conclusions: The incidence of ADRs due to DOTS therapy was 58.3%. These ADRs had a substantial impact on TB control in Warangal. This highlighted the importance of developing strategies to ameliorate ADRs both to improve the quality of patient care and to control TB safely.

PRF is an excellent autogenous biomaterial used in the field of dentistry in recent times, with predictable results. PRF is a second-generationplatelet concentrate, which has several advantages over traditionally prepared PRP. PRF is now considered as an autogenous biomaterial, which has abundant growth factors and cytokines, entrapped in fibrin matrix, which creates an ideal environment for perfect wound healing and tissue regeneration. This article describes the properties, procurement and its various applications in the field of dentistry.

Community participation has been seen as an effective process towards implementation and sustainability of development projects. This research attempts to give proposals for improving the quality of urban green spaces in Kisumu city through public involvement. The objective of the study was to develop participatory and innovative design guidelines on urban green space planning that can support ecotourism transformation in collaboration with relevant stakeholders. Data was collected from published documents, observation and questionnaires. The study found out that the public’s opinions are not openly consulted before decisions on development are made and they are also not involved in the design process. Members of the public do have opinions about the general issue of urban greening, but they are reluctant to express them to the planning authorities or government. The study recommends the use of propaganda to increase public awareness about the environment, in order to protect green space actively. Neighbourhood associations should also be involved in urban green space management, in order to improve the daily management of urban green spaces. Lastly there is need to promote green space activities for ecotourism transformation, in order to incorporate the broader social force into the construction and management of urban green spaces.

Background: Inflammation be may plays a central role in atherosclerosis. Coronary artery calcification (CAC) is a specific feature for coronary atherosclerosis. In multiple epidemiologic studies, inflammatory biomarkers such as high sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), has been associated with increased risk of coronary artery disease (CAD), while Pentraxin III might reflect local inflammation status in tissue and it is used as a new biomarker of inflammation. The aim of this study was designed to evaluate the association between the serum levels of hs-CRP, Pentaxin III and HbA1C% with coronary artery calcium score values in patients with suspected CAD and to show the role of these parameters in progression and development of CAC. Subjects and Methods: This study was conducted at the Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, University of Baghdad and at the Cardiologic Clinics of Ibn-Al-Bitar Hospital, Baghdad, Iraq, during the period from February 2013 to November 2013. Sixty-five patients with suspected CAD and who were not on statin derivatives treatment were included in this study and classified according to their coronary artery Ca score, using Multi-Slice Computed Tomography Scanner (MSCT), into three groups: Group I (GI, n=20) with coronary artery Ca score =0.0 Agatston Score (AS), Group II (GII, n=25) with coronary artery Ca score > 1-399 (AS), and Group III (GIII, n=20) with coronary artery Ca score of more than 400 (AS). Results: The present study showed the changes in serum concentrations of pentraxin III and hs-CRP were increased with increase in the severity of Ca score, but without significant level; GI had (0.83±0.35 ng/dl, 3.13±3.50 mg/l, respectively), GII (0.96±0.30 ng/dl, 3.07±3.79 mg/l, respectively), and GIII (0.99±0.50 ng/dl, 3.71±3.70 mg/l, respectively). Significant increased in the mean value of HbA1c in GIII compared with GI (P=0.03). Also the mean values of non-HDL-cholesterol (for both, P=0.0289) and atherogenic index (P=0.008 and P=0.0011) were significantly higher in GIII than in GII and GI. Conclusion: This study suggested the controversial role of proinflammatory adipokines, the hs-CRP and pentraxin III, in progression of coronary artery calcium calcification. The link among inflammation (hs-CRP, PTX3), hyperglycemia (HbA1C%) and dyslipidemia (non–HDL and atherogenic Index) may play important role in the severity progression of CAC.

Biofilms are a population of cells that grown attached to a surface involved in exopolysaccharide matrix which protects them from attack by antibiotics or immune system. Many chronic and persistent infections are caused by bacterial biofilms, which increase significantly the resistance to antimicrobials. Different mechanisms of resistance have been proposed such as: synthesis of extracellular polymers (physical barrier effect), enzymatic modification of antimicrobials, decrease of bacterial growth rate, phenotypic changes in bacterial cells (as a result of the acquisition of resistance genes within the biofilm), and the persistence of a small group of cells in the bacterial community. But all is not bad in life, bacterial biofilms also may have a protective role, for example the normal flora.

Trichoderma mediated systemic resistance is often associated with the onset of defense mechanisms by expression of various defense related enzymes such as β-1-3-glucanase, chitins, phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL), peroxidase (PO), polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and phenols. The present investigation was undertaken to demonstrate and to exploit the T.harzianum isolated from the rhizosphere soil of healthy pumpkin plants for induction of systemic resistance against Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV), the causative agent of cucumber mosaic virus disease in cucurbits. Trichoderma treated pumpkin plants challenged with CMV not only showed a pronounced and significant reduction in percent disease incidence (PDI) but also a significant reduction in virus concentration (ELISA) and exhibited maximum activity of PO, PPO and increase in the concentration of proteins, phenols as compared to the plants challenged with CMV alone at 25 days after inoculation (DAI). Trichoderma -treated plants were more developed than non treated plants throughout the experiment. Percentage of seed germination, symptom rating (%), plant height and yield measurements were also enhanced in the Trichoderm -treated plants inoculated with the virus. Expression of an additional 21.5 kDa protein in PAGE analysis indicates the induction of xylanase has shown to induce ethylene production and plant defense response in pre-treated plants.

The present study quantifies the diversity and composition of tree species having girth size > 15 cm in the tropical forests of Darjiling part of Eastern himalaya through nested quadrat sampling method. In total, 74 species under 64 genera and 36 families were recorded. The individual density varied from 25 to 88.89 individuals ha-1. Shannon-Weaver Index ranged from 0.016 to 0.138 whereas the species richness varied from 0.074 to 0.894. The most dominant families were Lauraceae and Malvaceae, followed by Leguminosae and Phyllanthaceae. The abundance to frequency ratio ranged from 0.020 to 0.125 and the basal area ranged from 0.088 ±0.003 to 76.172 ±0.285m2 ha-1. The dominant species was Shorea robusta (IVI: 27.502) followed by co-dominant species Tetrameles nudiflora (IVI: 15.998) and Tectona grandis (IVI: 11.442). The study reveals that the favourable climatic condition is one of the reasons for the rich diversity and composition of the tree species in the area.

Cephalopods (including squids) are rapidly perishable like fishes and crustaceans and require some treatment to maintain the quality for export. However the information on the effectiveness of chemicals being used in the industry is limited. Keeping this in mind, an attempt was made to study the improvement in sensory quality of frozen squid (Sepioteuthis lessoniana) upon the treatment with the imported food grade chemicals (Hidratech_4A and Whitech_3). The sensory quality of squids was evaluated for flavour, odour, appearance, texture and overall acceptability. Samples were tested after pre-processing, treatments and freezing and during storage at monthly intervals for 7 months. Sensory scores revealed a better quality of treated samples than control. Scores favoured the application of freshwater than saltwater in maintaining the sensory quality.

An experiment was conducted in the experimental field of Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Dhaka-1207, Bangladesh during the period from October 2012 to March 2013 to find out the effect of GA3 and pruning on the growth and yield of tomato. The experiment consisted of three doses of GA3 such as 80, 100 and 120 ppm with control; three different pruning levels such as 1, 2 and 3 stem pruning. The experiment was laid out in a RCBD with three replications. Both GA3 and pruning had significant influence on growth and yield contributing characters of tomato. At 75 DAT, the highest plant height (117.30 cm), maximum number of leaves/plant (75.30) and highest yield (29.03 t/ha) were recorded from GA3 spray at 120 ppm. At 75 DAT, the highest plant height (113.60 cm), maximum leaves per plant (67.00) and yield (28.11 t/ha) were recorded from 2 stem pruning. The combined effect of 120 ppm GA3 and 2 stem pruning performed the highest yield (31.89 t/ha) and lowest from G0P1. So, 120 ppm GA3 with 2 stem pruning may be used for higher yield of tomato.

Currently the steppe is a fragile area against degradation phenomena, knows a regressive evolution, reflecting mainly by anthropozoic effect. Today overexploitation of natural resources and a great tendency to degradation resulting in the reduction of the biological potential and rupture of the ecological balance. In this context comes the idea of assessing plant biodiversity of some steppe stations wintering site for the Grus grus.

In the applications of solar energy, the solar radiation components data in a site must be known for the design of a system. However, for many developing countries solar radiation data are only available for site stations due to the cost of the measurement equipment and techniques involved. The present work proposes a simple model to estimate the direct, diffuse, and total solar radiation on horizontal surfaces. Calculations of this model were made for solar solstices and equinox for the purpose of testing. Results showed that the model provides an acceptable estimation of the direct, diffuse, and total components of solar radiation components. This simple model can be used at any location in the northern hemisphere.

Experimental study to evaluate the effect of hydrotreating CoMo/γ-Al2O3 catalyst for upgrading heavy gas oil (HGO). Hydro desulfurization (HDS) and hydro dearomatization (HDA) activities were conducted in a continuous flow micro trickle-bed reactor at the temperatures, pressures, liquid hourly space velocity (LHSV) and hydrogen-to-feed ratio of; 3500-4500C, 40-75 bar, 0.5-1.0 h-1, and 400 LL-1 respectively. This work identifies and measures the key parameters in hydro desulfurization, and at conversion levels above 95 and 90 %, respectively. The experimental results fitted with the Power Law model yielded reaction orders of the first order reaction for HDS and HAD, and activation energies of 31.4 and 36.9 kj/Mol respectively.

Losses are difficult to control because of the lack of characterization method thick materials engineering. The work presented here is an experimental approach to characterize a thick material. We used the power of the sun as a source of excitation of the material. We set up a simple sensor consisting of a Peltier element and a thermocouple for measuring surface. With the help of a chain of acquisition, we recorded in steps of 10 s data flow and temperature in real time on the outside and inside of a building wall. Analysis and appropriate treatments based on the method of quadrupole were then allowed us to estimate the characteristic response time of the wall. Campaign measurement data is done in five days. So we could calculate the characteristic response time of each day, which obviously depends on the weather conditions and the thickness of strained layers in the wall. We determined an average characteristic time of 2h 21 min or 8460 s, which corresponds to a homogeneous material diffusivity (〖a=10〗^(-6) m^2⁄s) at a depth of about 12 cm polled. We believe that the implementation of an infrared camera, it would be possible to make Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) such materials.

This paper reviews a number of applications designed for location tracking on mobile phones and also how this location tracking can help in a variety of ways. The Location tracking is one of the location based services. Location based services are set of services provided to a user based on his location. A location of a mobile can be found out either with the help of mobile network or by Global Positioning System (GPS). Most of the mobile phones these days are embedded with the hardware required to use this GPS technology and are also easily available. Android is a new generation of smart mobile phone platform launched by Google. Android supports GPS, Video Camera, compass, and 3d-accelerometer and provides rich APIs for map and location functions. Users can flexibly access, control and process the free Google map and implement location based mobile service in his mobile systems at low cost.

Magnetic multilayers, (Co(50nm)/Al(10nm))n; n =2 and 5 were deposited at 473K, under high vacuum conditions. X- ray diffraction (GIXRD) studies indicated amorphous nature of the films. Atomic force microscope (AFM) has been employed to study surface structure and grain sizes. The magnetization as a function of field at temperatures 150K, 200K and 300K has been measured using the MPMS SQUID - vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). From the hysteresis loops, coercive field, saturation magnetization, remanent magnetization and ant ferromagnetic coupling were determined. The existence of ant ferromagnetic interaction between Co layers through Al layer has been established for both the films. The low temperature electrical resistivity in the range from 5 K to 300 K has been measured and found metallic behavior in both the films. This is for the first time that (Co/Al) multilayers were investigated for structural and low temperature magnetic and electrical properties and data analyzed thoroughly.

The light need to time when it move (to move 30 cm it need 10-9 s) so we see in every moment in our life the past of every thing or body we can find it clear in the space distance between us and any body else in the space (like stars) maybe we see light of one star we see the light now and we think the star is there now but maybe the truth is the star is died from 3000 years ago. We can see the past of the body or things if we stop or move by light speed or any other speed but we can not see ourselves if we move by light speed because we move like the light beam . If I carry mirror and I don’t move or move by speed don not like the light I will see the past of me in the mirror. There are 2 cases I can see myself in that in two different times.

A survey of the zooplankton communities of a water body was conducted from April 2013 to March 2014 in the Chhariganga oxbow lake in Block of Nakashipara of Nadia district, West Bengal, India and an analysis of rotifer group of zooplankton with using diversity indices like Shannon-weaver and Simpson diversity index, species richness and evenness, composition trends with total abundance was also carried out to assess the water quality and aquatic health of the oxbow lake ecosystem. Nine species of rotifer zooplanktons identified were Asplanchna sp, Notholca sp, Keratella sp, Anuraeopsis sp, Cephalodella sp, Monostyla sp, Platyias sp, Testudinella sp, Ascomorpha sp. Species Richness values of 5, 3, 4; Species Evenness of 0.96, 1.00, 0.96; Shannon-Weiner Index values of 1.55, 1.10, 1.33 and Simpson diversity index values of 0.22, 0.33 and 0.27 were found respectively during pre monsoon, monsoon and post monsoon in the oxbow lake. Total abundance of rotifer group showed density values of 280, 120, and 125 numbers per litre of water during those three seasons in a year. In the present study low diversity values of Shannon and Simpson diversity clearly stated that the selected lake is polluted and has high anthropogenic activity and this lake water is not suitable for aquaculture.

The study was proposed to investigate the changes observed on exercise heart rate of male handball players during a handball match. We selected twelve (12) university represented male handball players from Department of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, Annamalai University, Tamilnadu. However, in the present study goalkeepers were excluded from the study. The players exercise heart rate was measured at every 15th minute during the 60 minute handball match. The results of the study show that peak heart rate of handball players was significantly affected during the handball match as F (3, 33) = 3.071, p < 0.05, ω2 = 0.38. Similarly, mean heart rate of handball players was significantly affected during the handball match as F (3, 33) = 3.300, p < 0.05, ω2 = 0.40. It is concluded that handball players peak heart rate and mean heart rate was affected moderately during the handball match.

The paper examines child labor characteristics in Ethiopia using the data collected by Young Lives project. The study indicates that more than 55.73 percent of the 7 to 17-year-olds has participated in labor market. The result also shows a higher percentage of children participating in economic activities in rural areas than urban areas. We find supportive evidence of the luxury axiom that poverty drives child labor. Our result shows that poverty appears to be the main culprit of the prevalence of child labor in both rural and urban areas.

Mobile banking is the provision of banking services using the mobile phone. In keeping with the advancement in technology, commercial banks have in the recent past undergone major technological leaps in the provision of banking services by adoption of mobile banking technology. This model of banking is particularly useful in providing efficiency and accessibility of banking services without the barriers of location and time. Many studies have been done to assess the impact of mobile banking on financial inclusion. Not many known studies have been carried out in the Kenyan banking sector in respect of the impact of mobile banking on performance of commercial banks. This research sought to study the relationship between mobile banking and performance of commercial banks in Kenya. The setting of this study was Kakamega town where banks operating in the town were studied. To attain this, the banks perceptions and attitudes towards mobile banking, and its effects on performance on financial and customer based measures were assessed by administering questionnaires to the customer service and operations staff. Various journal articles, print media articles, and books were reviewed to provide findings of previous work on the area of study. This study was correlational in nature as it sought to fully describe all the key variables under study and establish the relationship among the variables. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data. The collected data was analyzed by inferential statistics where Pearson’s Product Moment Correlation and multiple regression analysis were used in measuring relationships among the various variables. This study established that there was positive relationship between mobile banking and performance of commercial banks. It found out that improvements in performance of commercial banks can be attributed to mobile banking. The findings of this research will be useful to bank management and other stakeholders as well as researchers in the area of mobile banking. The research will offer insight into the area of mobile banking to bank management and strategists in proper implementation of mobile banking and will form a basis for future research in this area.

Population growth and ever increasing urbanization have lead to the rapid growth and expansion of cities, which have been overwhelmed by a sudden increase in travel demand. Urban transportation is a critical concern in most developing countries. Ethiopia is no exception as an increasing urbanization is taking place. Like other African cities, Addis Ababa has experienced physical expansion and rapid population growth which has created high transportation demand. In Addis Ababa, since car ownership is very low, majority of residents depend on public transport, which is shortly supplied. Minibus taxi transport service is one of the public transport services which has greater modal share next to walking in the city. Until 2011, taxi transport was unregulated by the government with regard to route selection. They were operating every parts of the city without any restriction of routes. This created big opportunity for taxis to operate in areas where there is profit. This in turn results in discrimination; places that are far from the city center were not getting taxi service. For this response, the government has introduced zonal taxi transport system. The purpose of this study has been to assess the effect of zonal taxi transport system on the level of taxi transport service with special reference to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The study has been focused on the changes brought by the regulation into taxi transport service, the existing level of taxi transport service and taxi users’ level of satisfaction towards taxi transport service after the regulation put into place. In order to undertake this study, survey questionnaire, interview and observation were carried out to collect primary data from sample respondents in the study area. Both qualitative and quantitative techniques were used for analyzing the data. In addition to the above sources, relevant literature and essential documents were also reviewed. The findings of this study showed that the regulation has brought many changes in the taxi transport industry. With zonal taxi transport system, taxi station attendants are legally organized, taxi owners are organized and established taxi owners’ association, the idea of taxi zoning came into place, each taxi has forced to have a destination sign posted at the roof of each vehicle and taxi operators must post taxi transport tariff inside the vehicle. The study result also revealed that since taxi operators stick to one route, their livelihood is highly affected. The regulation has affected them negatively as compared to the situation before zonal taxi transport system. On the issue of service quality, the study showed that taxi operators’ behavior, the way taxi users get into taxis, waiting time to get taxis, time to reach taxi terminals and comfort of seating in taxis are those that are improved by zonal taxi transport system. However, the regulation does not bring any change with regard to time spent onboard, waiting environment for taxis at taxi terminals, responsiveness of transport bureau towards transport related problems, theft and traffic congestion as compared to the situation before zonal taxi transport system.

The purpose of the study was to examine the potency of alternative rites of passage in enhancing girl child self-esteem. To achieve this, the study sought to compare the effects of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and alternative rites of passage on girl-child self-esteem in Marigat District in Kenya. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. A total of 132 respondents were involved in the study. The selection of the study sample was done using stratified random sampling, simple random sampling and proportionate sampling. Schools were stratified into educational divisions from which 16 out of the total of 45 public schools in Marigat District were selected using proportionate random sampling. To get a specific school to participate in the study, simple random sampling was used. The respondents of the study included teachers and pupils from the selected schools, who were selected through simple random sampling. Questionnaires, interview schedules and document analysis were used to collect data. Descriptive statistical techniques and inferential statistics (t-test) were used in analyzing the data with the aid of the SPSS computer program. The study revealed that, unlike FGM, the alternative rites of passage enhanced girl-child self-esteem, though some section of the society still considered it as a foreign practice in the society. Majority of the learners, for instance, agreed that they had no doubts about their academic abilities while others blamed their teachers and fellow pupils whenever things went wrong. The elements of the existing alternative rite of passage included: gender roles; sex and sexuality; adolescence challenges and how to counter them; life skills and self reliance; Christian moral values; family life issues; economic empowerment; rights of the girl-child; health issues; nutrition, cultural values and career choices. It was recommended that the school administrators, teachers and parents should come up with activities in order to enhance self esteem of the learners who have undergone FGM as well as the alternative rites of passage and to eliminate all the barriers that may lead to stereotype or make the learners feel inferior to or ridiculed by others.

The energy, genius and mental faculty of every child should be properly channelized, trained and educated for the socio economic and politico cultural growth of the country. It is also the birth right of every child, who cries for justice from every nook and corner of the globe. Child labour is a very complicated development issue, affecting human society all over the world. In the present study Job pattern, Earning potentiality, Safety and comfort aggregate, Schooling concern, Health & hygiene concern and Awareness were taken as dependent variables for child labour in the purposively selected Dum Dum Municipality. Total 110 samples were studied. Presence of owner, Residence, Gender, Age, Caste, Education of the respondent, Religion, Family type, Family size and Family educational status are the nine independent variables. In this paper mainly the relation between dependent and independent variables is shown. Spearman and Pearson’s correlation method and Canonical Correlation method is used as major statistical tool. Through the study, general socio-economic and technical profiles of the respondents were studied.

These research asses the customer satisfaction related with five dimensions of service quality (tangibility, reliability, responsiveness, assurance and empathy) in one of the private bank Birhan International Bank branches found in Mekelle. Customer satisfaction is defined as meeting of customer thought and the firm delivery of the service. And service quality has been defined as one of the most important dimension that customers use to differentiate between services offered by different companies. To achieve the objective of the study, data was collected through questioners from the sample of48 customers of the bank. These respondents were selected using convenience sampling technique. The data collected from the questionnaires were analyzed using descriptive tools such as mean, percentage, table and frequency distribution analysis and the result of the study indicate that except empathy therefore service quality dimensions (tangibility, assurance, reliability, and responsiveness) have positive effect on customer satisfaction. The finding of the study also indicates that customers were not satisfied with the empathy dimension of service quality.

C-reactive Protein (CRP) is an acute-phase protein that belongs to the pentraxin family of calcium dependent legend-binding plasma proteins. The human CRP molecule has five identical subunits. These subunits are made up of 206 amino acids and are non glycosylated polypeptide. This review focuses on the various biological roles of CRP, their normal values, methods of measurement, advantages and factors. CRP is closely related to cardiovascular disease and other diseases. Cardiovascular disease can be treated by both phytochemical and non phytochemical sources.