Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Disease

93-102

Authors: Baby Joseph, D Jini

Diabetes mellitus is among the most common disorder in developed and developing countries, and the disease is increasing rapidly in most parts of the world. It has been estimated that up to one-third of patients with diabetes mellitus use some form of complementary and alternative medicine. One plant that has received the most attention for its anti-diabetic properties is bitter melon, Momordica charantia (M. charantia), commonly referred to as bitter gourd, karela and balsam pear. Its fruit is also used for the treatment of diabetes and related conditions amongst the indigenous populations of Asia, South America, India and East Africa. Abundant pre-clinical studies have documented in the anti-diabetic and hypoglycaemic effects of M. charantia through various postulated mechanisms. However, clinical trial data with human subjects are limited and flawed by poor study design and low statistical power. The present review is an attempt to highlight the antidiabetic activity as well as phytochemical and pharmacological reports on M. charantia and calls for better-designed clinical trials to further elucidate its possible therapeutic effects on diabetes.

111-118

Authors: Thangadurai Chitra , Kadarkarai Murugan, Arjunan Naresh Kumar, Pari Madhiyazhagan, Thiyagarajan Nataraj, Duraisamy Indumathi, Jiang- Shiou Hwang

Objective: To test the potentiality of the leaf extract of Pedalium murex (P. murex) and predatory copepod Mesocyclops longisetus (M. longisetus) in individual and combination in controlling the rural malarial vector, Anopheles culicifacies (An. culicifacies) in laboratory and field studies. Methods: P. murex leaves were collected from in and around Erode, Tamilnadu, India. The active compounds were extracted with 300 mL of methanol for 8 h in a Soxhlet apparatus. Laboratory studies on larvicidal and pupicidal effects of methanolic extract of P. murex tested against the rural malarial vector, An. culicifacies were significant. Results: Evaluated lethal concentrations (LC50) of P. murex extract were 2.68, 3.60, 4.50, 6.44 and 7.60 mg/L for I, II, III, IV and pupae of An. culicifacies, respectively. Predatory copepod, M. longisetus was examined for their predatory efficacy against the malarial vector, An. culicifacies. M. longisetus showed effective predation on the early instar (47% and 36% on I and II instar) when compared with the later ones (3% and 1% on III and IV instar). Predatory efficacy of M. longisetus was increased (70% and 45% on I and II instar) when the application was along with the P. murex extract. Conclusions: Predator survival test showed that the methanolic extract of P. murex is non-toxic to the predatory copepod, M. longisetus. Experiments were also conducted to evaluate the efficacy of methanolic extract of P. murex and M. longisetus in the direct breeding sites (paddy fields) of An. culicifacies. Reduction in larval density was very high and sustained for a long time in combined treatment of P. murex and M. longisetus.

127-132

Authors: Ganapathy Rameshkumar, Samuthirapandian Ravichandran, Sartaj Ahmad Allayie

Objective: To carry out a comparative study of the mouthparts and the diet of eight isopod fish parasites. Methods: A description of the mouthparts, together with their diet nature, was derived both by direct observation and an interpretation of their structure. The three-dimensional study of the mouthparts of the isopod parasites was done to reveal their morphology. Results: Observations revealed that these species are wholly carnivorous. Result shows how they are adapted for tearing and bolting fish food material. The mouthparts consist of a labrum, paragnaths, paired mandibles, maxillules, maxillae and maxillipeds. The labrum and the paragnaths are the least developed but peculiarly the mandibles are asymmetrical, large, stout and highly modified. The analysis of gut contents indicated that Cymothoa indica and Joryma brachysoma diet consisted of 90% to 95% of animal blood. The diet of Mothocya renardi, Ryukyua circularis and Joryma hilsae were mainly composed of mucus (80%-90%). The stomach contents of Nerocila phaeopleura and Nerocila sundaica, were dominated by body muscles (75%-83%). Conclusions: The possible functions of the mouthparts, especially in feeding are discussed in light of their structure. The morphology of the mouthparts of the isopod parasites are heavily modified with their feeding behavior.

143-145

Authors: Nemai Bhattacharya, Bhaswati Bandyopadhyay, Indranil Bhattacharjee, Hiranmoy Mukherjee, Srabani Talukdar, Ruby Mondal, Netai Pramanick, Goutam Chandra, Amiya K. Hati

Objective: To conduct a retrospective analysis of dengue cases in Kolkata, on the basis of presence of anti-dengue IgM in their sera and presence or absence of anti-dengue IgG and dengue specific Non structural 1 (NS1) antigen in each of the serum sample. Methods: Sample was tested quantitatively employing ELISA technique, using Biorad test kits, with a view to get a more comprehensive picture of dengue in an urban endemic area and also to evaluate individual cases. Results: This reconstructed study revealed that of those 91 dengue cases, 70.3% (64) and 29.7% (27) were suffering from secondary and primary dengue respectively, showing that number of secondary dengue cases were much more than that of primary dengue cases with a possibility of emergence of DHF. A small proportion of cases 18.7% (17) were reactive for NS1. The duration of fever in NS1 antigen positive cases varied between 5 and 7 days. Of 17 NS1 reactive cases, 10 (10.9%) and 7 (7.7%) were suffering from secondary and primary dengue respectively. Conclusions: Early detection of primary and secondary dengue cases would be facilitated by utilizing all three parameters (NS1 antigen, anti-dengue IgM and IgG) helping to evaluate, monitor and treat a dengue case effectively.

150-154

Authors: Naval Kishor Yadav, C . Thanpari, Mukesh Kumar Shrewastwa, B rijesh S athian 4 , Rabindra Kumar Mittal

Objective: To know the status of thyroid disorder in population of far western region of Nepal. Methods: A total of 808 cases (133 men and 675 non pregnant women) were included and study was carried out using data retrieved from the register maintained in the Department of Biochemistry of the Nepalgunj Teaching Hospital between 1st January, 2011 and 28th February, 2012. The variables collected were age, sex, and thyroid function profile including free T3, free T4 and TSH. Results: The percentage of thyroid disorders was 33.66% in far western region of Nepal. The people were highly affected by overt hyperthyroidism (14.9%) followed by subclinical hyperthyroidism (9.9%). The subclinical hypothyroidism was 7.9% while 1% overt hypothyroidism only in a far western region of Nepal. Females were highly affected by overt hyperthyroidism (17.8%), followed by subclinical hyperthyroidism (11.9%). A total of 5.9% females were affected by subclinical hypothyroidism while only 1.2% by overt hypothyroidism. Males were affected only by subclinical hypothyroidism (18.0%) in this present study. High number of total thyroid dysfunction was observed in 21 to 40 years of age groups, followed by 41 to 60 years of age groups. Less than 40 years people were having 1.03, 0.99, 2.51 and 1.15 times risk of developing overt hyperthyroidism, subclinical hyperthyroidism, overt hypothyroidism and subclinical hyperthyroidism respectively compared to greater than 40. Female were having 0.29 times risk of developing subclinical hyperthyroidism compared to male. But overt hyperthyroidism, subclinical hyperthyroidism and overt hypothyroidism female were having more risk of developing compared to male. Conclusions: The thyroid disorder, especially overt hyperthyroidism (14.9%) and subclinical hyperthyroidism (9.9%) was high. Further studies are required to characterize the reasons for this high prevalence.

158-160

Authors: Rajesh Dulani, Gagandeep Gupta, Pradeep Singh, Gaurav Mundada, Abhijit Sahu

Isolated tuberculosis of greater trochanteris unusual and clinical presentation is often vague. Isolated fracture of greater trochanter is also rare. We are reporting a case of tuberculosis of greater trochanter in adult female with radiological presentation in form of avulsion fracture of greater trochanter which has not be reported in literature till now to our knowledge.

164-166

Authors: Catherine U Ukponmwan

No

5-9

Authors: Aghaei Afshar Abbas, Vatandoost Hassan, Sharifi Iraj, Rassi Yavar, Abai Mohammad Reza, Oshaghi Mohammad Ali, Yaghoobi-Ershadi Mohammad Reza, Rafizadeh Sina

Objective: To determine the impact and outcome indicators following residual spraying with deltamethrin in new focus of cutaneous leishmaniasis during 2010-2011. Methods: Deltamethrin WP 5% was applied at 25 mg a.i/m2.in intervention area using Hudson compression sprayer. Sticky trap were used to collect sand flies twice each month from human and animal dwelling in either or intervention and control areas. Results: The incidence of disease was significantly decreased (3.65 versus 8.43). There was a significant difference between treats and control areas on blood fed and gravidity of sand flies. Conclusions: The results of current study clearly indicated that indoor residual spraying caused a significant decline of density, blood fed and gravidity of vectors resulting a sharp reduction of disease incidence.

16-19

Authors: Anil Chander, Chandrika D. Shrestha

Objective: To study the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) adenosine deaminase (ADA) levels in tuberculous meningitis (TBM) and non-TBM -viral meningitis cases and to determine its diagnostic significance as a biochemical marker of TBM infection.Methods: The study population comprised two different patient groups. TBM - group I - 28 cases and non-TBM-viral meningitis - 22 cases. These were enrolled consecutively in the study and CSF specimens were collected fr om them. ADA estimation was carried out by spectrophotometry.Results: ADA levels (mean± SD) in the TBM and non-TBM groups were 16.46±6.24 U/L and 5.13±2.96 U/L, respectively (highly significant P<0.001). Using a CSF ADA cut off reference value of >10 IU/L, the test showed a good sensitivity of 82.14% (95% CI 64.41-92.12) and a high specificity of 90.91% (95% CI 72.19-97.47). Positive and negative predictive value and positive and negative likelihood ratios and accuracy of the test in TBM cases were 92% (95% CI 75.03-97.77), 80% (95% CI 60.86-91.13), 9.03 (95% CI 2.38- 34.25), 0.19 (95% CI 0.09-0.44) and 86%, respectively.Conclusion: CSF ADA levels are elevated in the TBM cases as compared to the non-TBM - viral meningitis cases with a good sensitivity and a high specificity. It is a simple and inexpensive diagnostic adjunctive test in the rapid and early diagnosis of TBM.

26-31

Authors: Gokulakrishnan J, Elumalai Kuppusamy, Dhanasekaran Shanmugam, Anandan Appavu, Krishnappa Kaliyamoorthi

Objective: To determine the repellent and pupicidal activities of Pogostemon cablin (P. cablin) chemical compositions were assayed for their toxicity against selected important vector mosquitoes, viz., Aedes aegypti (Ae. aegypti), Anopheles stephensi (An. stephensi) and Culex quinquefasciatus (Cx. quinquefasciatus) (Diptera: Culicidae). Methods: The plants dry aerial parts were subjected to hydrodistillation using a modified Clevenger-type apparatus. The composition of the essential oil was analyzed by Gas Chromatography (GC) and GC mass spectrophotometry. Evaluation was carried out in a net cage (45 cm×30 cm×45 cm) containing 100 blood starved female mosquitoes and were assayed in the laboratory condition by using the protocol of WHO 2010. The repellent activity of P. cablin chemical compositions at concentration of 2mg/cm2were applied on skin of fore arm in man and exposed against adult female mosquitoes. The pupicidal activity was determined against selected important vector mosquitoes to concentration of 100 mg/L and mortality of each pupa was recorded after 24 h of exposure to the compounds. Results: Chemical constituents of 15 compounds were identified in the oil of P.cablin compounds representing to 98.96%. The major components in essential oil were â-patchoulene, á-guaiene, ã-patchoulene, á-bulnesene and patchouli alcohol. The repellent activity of patchouli alcohol compound was found to be most effective for repellent activity and 2 mg/cm2 concentration provided 100% protection up to 280 min against Ae. aegypti, An. stephensi and Cx. quinquefasciatus, respectively. Similarly, pupae exposed to 100 mg/L concentrations of P. cablin chemical compositions. Among five compounds tested patchouli alcoholwas found to be most effective for pupicidal activity provided 28.44, 26.28 and 25.36 against Ae.aegypti, An.stephensi and Cx. quinquefasciatus, respectively. The percent adult emergence was inversely proportional to the concentration of compounds and directly proportional to the pupal mortality.Conclusion: These results suggest that the P. cablin chemical compositions have the potential to be used as an ideal eco-friendly approach for the control of mosquitoes. This is the first report on the mosquito repellent and pupicidal activities of the reported P. cablin chemical compositions.

37-40

Authors: Seif Ali Mahdavi, Ali Farahnak, Seyed Jaber Mousavi, Iraj Mobedi, Mostafa Rezaeian, Taghi Golmohamadi, Hossein Azadeh, Shaban Gohardehi

Objective: To investigate the level of people’s infection to cecarial dermatitis in Mazandaran Province(north of Iran), where is susceptible to this disease due to Mazandaran’s climate. Methods: The present descriptive study is a cross sectional one and was done during 2010-2011. The sample and population were 2 310 people, randomly chosen in 77 clusters from 4 towns, 30 people in each cluster on average. The survey form was given to people house-by-house and the clinical observation of the positive cases were recorded. The related medicine (calamin ointment) prevention methods were prescribed by the doctors of the research team and freely given to the infected patients. SPSS was applied to analyze the groups of age, sex, job and the part of the body infected. Results: Among the 2 310 population studied, 139 of them (6.1%) were infected to cecarial dermatitis. Among the 139 people who had cecarial dermatitis, there was a significant difference in the amounts related to the groups of job, age and the part of body infected. Farmers were infected to this disease more than other vocations 74 (53.2%); people between 40-49 years were infected to cecarial dermatitis more than other age groups 38 (27.3%); leg was the most vulnerable bodypart 112 (80.6%). Conclusions: It can be concluded that since this farmers and 40-49 years group are more exposed to mud and dirty water, these people are more infected to cecarial dermatitis. Close cooperation among health and environment authorities should be carried out 40-49 years, to control this disease 40-49 years.

47-50

Authors: Anigo Kola Matthew, Owolabi Olumuyiwa Adeyemi James, Dorcas Bolanle, Oyeyipo Oluwafemi Stephen

Objective: To evaluate some hematological and anthropometric parameters, malaria infection at different trimesters in pregnancy. Methods: Fifty pregnant women (6 in first trimester, 28 in second trimester and 16 in third trimester) between ages of 15-40 years with ten age-matched non-pregnant women used as control were enrolled in the study. Consent were obtained from the subjects after which semi-structured questionnaires were administered to obtain data on demographic and socio-economic variables, reproductive and medical history. Anthropometric variables, and hematology were carried out using standard procedures. Results: Anthropometric characteristics showed no significant difference in weight, height and BMI when compared with non-pregnant control. Hematological values indicated higher values for non-pregnant women but not statistically significant. Prevalence of malaria infection in pregnant women showed that 40% of pregnant women examined were infected compared to 30% non-pregnant with those with first pregnancy (primagravid) recording the highest infection (47.62%) with pregnant women within age 15-18 years least infected (16.7%). Pregnant women in the third trimester had the highest (50%) malaria infection and there was increase in prevalence with increase education status and those with first pregnancy (primagravid) recorded the highest infection (47.62%). Treatment used when infected showed 36.8% and 42.9% used malaria drug and both drug/herbs respectively. Conclusions: Higher prevalence rate of malaria infection in pregnant women with the highest prevalence recorded in those with first conception (primigravidae). There is a need for continuous monitoring of hematological parameters and malaria parasite infection for better outcome of pregnancy.

56-60

Authors: Kemebradikumo Pondei, Onyaye E. Kunle-Olowu, Oliemen Peterside

Objective: Febrile illnesses are common in childhood and differentiating the causes could be challenging in areas of perennial malaria transmission. To determine the proportion of nonmalarial febrile illness in children, the aetiological agents and their antimicrobial sensitivity pattern. Methods: Blood, urine, throat swab and ear swab samples were obtained from 190 febrile children aged 6 months to 11 years. Malaria parasite was detected by microscopic examination of thick and thin Giemsa-stained films. Smears from ear and throat swabs and urine specimen were cultured on appropriate media. Bacterial isolates were identified by Gram staining, morphology and biochemical tests. Antibiotic susceptibility was tested using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. Results: The prevalence of non-malarial febrile illnesses was 45.26% (95% CI: 38.21- 52.31). Twenty-four patients (12.6%) had at least one sample that was bacterial culture positive. Samples from 62 patients (32.6%) were negative for both malaria parasite and bacterial culture. Urinary tract infection was responsible for 8.42%, otitis media 7.89% and pharyngitis 5.78% of the fevers. E.coli, S. aureus and S. pneumoniae were the commonest isolates from urine, ear swab and throat swab samples respectively. S. pneumoniae was responsible for all the positive throat cultures. Bacterial isolates exhibited different degrees of susceptibility to the antibiotics tested, but susceptibility of most of the isolates to oxacillin and cloxacillin was generally poor. Conclusions: Bacterial infections are responsible for a significant proportion of non-malarial febrile illnesses, and diagnostic facilities should be strengthened to detect other causes of febrile illness outside malaria.

65-70

Authors: Mohamed Kouni Chahed, Hedia Bellali, Nissaf Ben Alaya, Ali Mrabet, Belgacem Mahmoudi

Objective: To carry out a data quality audit for the consistency and quality of immunization monitoring in Kasserine governorate in Tunisia, where immunization coverage rates more than 100%, negative dropout and conflicting coverage rates had been reported. Methods: In a randomly selected sample of 12 primary health care facilities in 2 districts all files used to record immunization data were checked to verify the accuracy of the reported 3rd dose of diphtheriatetanus-pertussis vaccine during a calendar year. Results: The results found frequent overreporting or under-reporting of doses being administrated in all health facilities. The regional verification factor was estimated as 85% and quality index was 55%. Conclusions: Data quality audit provides a effective tool for self-assessment implementation and developing a critical analysis of the quality of routine immunization data at all levels of health service.

74-75

Authors: Fatih Akin, Celebi Kocaoglu, Ece Selma Solak, Halil Ozdemir, Bayram Pektas, Sukru Arslan

Malaria is an acute and chronic illness characterized by paroxysms of fever, chills, sweats, fatigue, anemia, and splenomegaly. It is still an important health problem in malaria-endemic countries. Children living in malaria-endemic areas have elevated Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) loads in the circulation and acute malaria infection leads to increased levels of circulating EBV that are cleared after anti-malaria treatment. There are many reports about the association of Plasmodium falciparum (P. falciparum) malaria and EBV infection. Here we report a case who had coinfection of Plasmodium vivax (P. vivax) malaria and EBV infection. To the best of our knowledge this is the first case indicating the association of P. vivax malaria and EBV infection.

79-84

Authors: Geraldo Bezerra da Silva Junior, Daniella Bezerra Duarte, Elvino José Guardão Barros, Elizabeth De Francesco Daher

Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease caused by organisms from the genus Schistosoma. The disease is endemic in tropical areas, where there are currently millions of people living in areas with transmission risk. Schistosomiasis-associated kidney disease is not frequently described in literature. The disease has a chronic evolution, with variable severity. Glomerulonephritis is described in 10-12% in autopsy studies. Proteinuria is reported in 20% of patients with S. mansoni infection. Schistosomal glomerulopathy generally occur in young patients, male, with hepatosplenomegaly. The glomerular lesion in schistosomiasis has an immunological nature. Antigens from the parasite seem to be related to glomerulopathy and have been found in the sera of humans and animals infected by the S. mansoni. Vesical involvement is common in the infection by S. haematobium, a parasitic disease prevalent in African countries. In the S. haematobium infection, hematuria and dysuria can be observed due to inflammation and ulceration in the bladder mucosa, generaly occuring 3 to 4 months after primary infection. Specific antiparasitic treatment is indicated to all patients infected by Schistosoma. There are 2 drugs available for treatment, praziquantel and oxamniquine. We revise the general aspects of the disease and describe the features of renal involvement in schistosomiasis.

426-430

Authors: Muthiyan Ramachandran, Balwyn Nambikkairaj, Manly bakyavathy

Objective: Neuraminidase is an enzyme aspartic protease that is essential for the life cycle of H1N1. Methods: Constructed a model of Neuraminidase enzyme the 3D structure as template using with Modeller software. The Neuraminidase enzyme model was predicted and validated by Procheck, What check, Errat, Verify-3D and AutoDock web server for reliability. Results: The Modeller homology-modeling algorithm was demonstrated excellent accuracy in blind predictions. The Neuraminidase enzyme model built with little, 35% identity could be accurate enough to be successfully used in receptor based rational drug design. The closest homologue with the highest sequence identity 100% was selected. Zanamivir drug and analogues were retrieved from PubChem database, as well as subjected to docking interaction with Neuraminidase enzyme used AutoDock programme. Based on the root mean square deviation and lowest binding energy values the best docking orientation was selected. The better lowest binding energy value -6.91 was selected of CID_25209232. Conclusions: This study will be used in broad screening of inhibitors of the protein. However, further implemented experimental and clinical verification is needed to establishment these analogues as drug.

437-441

Authors: Kuttan Sujith, Ronald Darwin, Venkatesan Suba

Objective: To evaluate the sub chronic toxicity of ethanolic extract of Anacyclus pyrethrum (A. pyrethrum) in albino wistar rats. Methods: In sub chronic toxicity study ethanolic extract of A. pyrethrum prepared in 2%v/v tween 80 was administered to rats at the dose of 1 000 mg/kg per day for 90 days by oral gavage. A control group received only 2%v/v tween 80. During study period the rats were observed for changes body weight. At the end of dosing period rats relative organ weight of the liver, kidney, brain, lungs and spleen in rats treated with A. pyrethrum extract and control group were examined and also rats were subjected to haematological, biochemical and histopathological examination. Results: The administration of ethanolic extract of A. pyrethrum had no effect on body weight, growth and survival. There was no significant difference in the relative organ weight of the liver, kidney, brain, lungs and spleen in rats treated with A. pyrethrum extract and control group. In the present study, all the haematological and biochemical parameters at the end of dosing and observation period did not reveal difference between drug treated and control groups. Studies on histopathological examination of vital organs showed normal architecture suggesting no evidence of pathological lesions. Conclusions: The studies on sub chronic toxicity reveals that no mortalities or evidence of adverse effects on oral administration of extract. The findngs of the study indicate that ethanolic extract of A. pyrethrum had no treatment related toxicological abnormalities and can be considerd as safe for long-term treatment.

448-450

Authors: Mohammad Khalili, Masod Sami, Mohammad Reza Aflatoonian, Naser Shahabi-Nejad

Objective: T o evaluate the seroprevalence of brucellosis among the risk group of population between the periods from July 2011 to June 2011. Methods: A total of 75 sera samples of Kerman slaughterhouse workers were collected. Sera were tested by a commercial indirect ELISA kit. Results: The apparent seroprevalence was 58.6% by ELISA method. Significant relation were observed with clinical signs (P<0.001) and duration of work (P<0.01) but relation between age, job title and education level with seropositivity were not significant. Conclusions: The study indicates that the slaughterhouse workers in Kerman City are at high risk to infection with brucellosis.

456-464

Authors: Charuai Suwanbamrung

Objective: To develop children’s basic knowledge and activities to solve the dengue problem, and to evaluate the results from children’s activities. Methods: Participatory Action Research (PAR) was applied in five steps: 1) preparation step; 2) assessment step; 3) children’s activities planning step; 4) implementation step; 5) evaluation step. Basic knowledge of dengue was evaluated by questionnaires (17 items) and analysis pre and post-activities by a Chi-square statistic test. The children’s understanding of the dengue problem was evaluated by drawing pictures and participation of children’s activities. Larval Indices (BI, HI, and CI) were ratio analysis which related dengue outbreak measurement. Results: Three groups for children’ activities were: 1) group leaders (13 children); 2) general children; 3) a support group from the community. “Education of dengue learning”, “dengue prevention campaign”, and “the recycle garbage bank” were core children’s activities. Most children’s knowledge question items showed an increase from pre-activities to post-activities, and a half of all questions items were statistically significantly different (P<0.05). There were five categories of children’s reflection from the drawn picture that showed understanding of the solution to dengue problems and methods for eliminating sites of mosquito breeding in the community. Their households had increased garbage management, and thus decreased numbers of mosquito breeding types such as larval indices (BI, HI, and CI) which decreased from before the activities (93, 30, and 14) to after them (7, 5, and 1). Furthermore, no instances of dengue morbidity or the mortality rate occurred during the study. Conclusions: Although there was an increase in the children’s knowledge and activities, and a decrease in larval indices ratio, the high risk of a dengue epidemic might be found because the ratios of larval indices were based on community’s behaviors. Thus, it is essential for children and all stakeholders in and out of the community needed to better combat the dengue problem.

470-474

Authors: Shallu Rozra, Debabrata Kundu, Bibhuti Saha, Argha Rudra, Suman Chakrabarty, Premananda Bharati

Objective: To evaluate the periodontal status of HIV seropositive patients and to find out if any correlation exists between the severity of periodontal disease and the CD4 cell count in HIV patients. Methods: One hundred and thirty patients attending the Viral Diseases OPD, Calcutta School of Tropical Medicine, Kolkata were examined. They were grouped according to the CD4 cell count as Group A - Subjects with CD4 Cell count < 200/ μL and Group B - Subjects with CD4 Cell count ≥ 200/ μL. Their community periodontal index of treatment needs (CPITN) score were recorded. Results: It was found that most of the patients in each group were having score ‘2’ (i.e. presence of supra or subgingival calculus), as their highest score. A statistically significant association was found between immune status as depicted by CD4 cell count and periodontal status as shown by highest CPITN score in the present study. Conclusions: The present study confirms the effect of immunosuppression on periodontal diseases in HIV infected patients.

478-480

Authors: Samuel Tennyson, John Ravindran, Alex Eapen2 , John William

Objective: To determine the repellent activity of hexane, ethyl acetate and methanol crude extracts of Ageratum houstonianum (A. houstonianum) leaves against adult Anopheles stephensi (An. stephensi), Aedes aegypti (Ae. aegypti) and Culex quinquefasciatus (Cx. quinquefasciatus) mosquitoes. Methods: Bioassay on laboratory reared Swiss albino mice by topical application at a fixed concentration of 0.01 per cent with coconut oil as a base. Results: Crude leaf extracts of A. houstonianum in combination with coconut oil repelled vector mosquitoes. Maximum protection for a period of 11.30 h was obtained against Cx. quinquefasciatus and An. stephensi when treated with methanol and hexane extracts followed by 8.30 h against Ae. aegypti in methanol extract. Amongst the three extracts, methanol extract gave the maximum protection of 95.0% against Cx. quinquefasciatus. Hexane and ethyl acetate extracts gave a maximum of 93.4% protection against An. stephensi. Conclusions: The crude extracts of A. houstonianum leaves in combination with coconut oil showed repellent activity with repellent quotient ranging from 0.6 to 0.9.

485-487

Authors: Utpal Adhikari, Papiya Ghosh, Goutam Chandra

Objective: To estimate the larvicidal activities, if any of glacial acetic acid, an organic acid against Culex quinquefasciatus (Cx. quinquefasciatus), Culex vishuni (Cx. vishuni) group and Anopheles stephensi (An. stephensi). Methods: The common organic acid, glacial acetic acid at some fixed concentrations( 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4% and 0.5%) were used against third instar larvae of Cx. quinquefasciatus, Cx. vishuni group and An. stephensi in order to investigate the rate of mortality after 24 h, 48 h and 72 h of exposure in laboratory. Results: 100% mortality of 3rd instar larva of An. stephensi was recorded at 0.5% concentration after 72 h of exposure. The results or regression analysis revealed that the mortality rate (Y) was positively correlate with the period of exposure (X). The value of R2 in all cases was near 1. Conclusions: The organic chemical may be used efficiently to kill Cx. quinquefasciatus, Cx. vishuni group and An. stephensi. Acid can be applied both in field condition and laboratory condition.

490-491

Authors: Manab Nandy, Abhiram Chakrabarti, Sudesna Mallik

Hydatid disease (Echinococcus granulosus) is endemic in the Middle East as well as other parts of the world including India. Even though hydatid cysts can occur in any organ, infestation by hydatid disease in humans most commonly occurs in the liver because it acts as the first filter followed by the lung, which forms a second filter. The two organs can be affected simultaneously. After entering the systemic circulation it may be distributed in various organs including brain, orbit, parotid gland, vertebrae, bones and even palm and sole. Some other organs may also be rarely affected, but presentation as lymph node swelling in the supraclavicular region is very rare. The purpose of this paper is to emphasize the fact that supra clavicular lymph node swelling may be a presenting feature of hydatid disease, especially in endemic areas of the world.

495-496

Authors: Suneth Karunarathne, Dumitha Govindapala, Harshini Fernando

Tetanus is now encountered rarely in clinical practice. There were no reported cases of tetanus due to ocular injuries in Sri Lanka. We report of a case of tetanus following an ocular injury which can be at least partly attributed to the disruption of immunization programmes due to political unrest. A 13 year-old Sri Lankan Tamil schoolgirl who had a splinter prick injury to left orbit was treated for intraorbital abscess and orbital cellulites. She developed clinical tetanus while on intravenous antibiotics. Following intensive care and ventilatory support she achieved an uncomplicated recovery. Ocular injury is a rare cause of tetanus worldwide. Adequate debridement of orbital soft tissue injuries can be difficult and demanding. Even in countries with high immunization coverage, tetanus can still occur due to lapses in immunization with conflict and war.

502-504

Authors: Sreenivasan Sasidharan , S Gopal Parthiban , Subramanion L Jothy, Lachimanan Yoga Latha

The novel H1N1 influenza virus that emerged in humans in Mexico in early 2009 and transmitted efficiently in the human population with global spread has been declared a pandemic strain by WHO. Here we reviewed the role of ethical issue in the prevention of H1N1. Studies with original data related to the ethical issues in the prevention of diseases (published 1996-2012) were identified via searching electronic databases to extract related information. The role of ethical issues in the prevention of diseases must be understood. This comprises work on how the society understands about a disease and what are their individuals’ tasks to conquer the outbreak. Such understanding feeds into health damaging or health promoting behavior which eventually will help in the implementation of various disease control measures. The promises of ethical issue in the various control measures that may be taken to fight the danger of pandemic H1N1 are great.

342-347

Authors: Tedom, Penlap V, Kieft R, McArthur AG, Mbacham W, Mark Welch D, Hajduk SL, Titanji VPK

Objective: To understand the spread of drug resistance and identifying diagnostic probes among the local tuberculosis (TB) strains in order to design rational control tools for tuberculosis controls. Methods: TA cloning and sequencing were used to characterize mutation associated with RIF resistance in 69 bp region of the gene, rpoB. The analysis identified two regions of mutations but no unusual insertion and deletion. No mutation was observed in RIF sensitive strains. Results: We employed Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analysis for typing strains of M. tuberculosis to determine whether new strains were present among M. tuberculosis isolates circulating in Yaounde. Three groups (I to III) of M. tuberculosis were identified among 93 isolates randomly selected. RAPD analysis provided a rapid and easy means of identifying polymorphism in M. tuberculosis isolates, and it was found to be a valuable alternative epidemiological tool. RAPD was used to select the new site of diagnostic by PCR. Also single nucleotide polymorphisms between M. tuberculosis and M. bovis were found, suggesting that RAPD can be a useful technique for distinguishing between species. Conclusions: Molecular typing is defined as the integration of conventional epidemiological approach to track specific strains of pathogens in order to understand the distribution of disease in populations.

352-357

Authors: Surya Prakash Dwivedi, Nuzhat Husain, RB Singh, Nancy Malla

Objective: To develop an in-house PCR based diagnostic assay for identification of strains isolated from symptomatic and asymptomatic subjects of India, targeting the 毬-tubulin gene using specific primers. Methods: In the present study a primer set is designed to target a well-conserved region in the beta-tubulin gene of Trichomonas vaginalis (T. vaginalis). All strains of T. vaginalis were tested and successfully detected by PCR yielding a single predicted product of 198 bp in gel electrophoresis, while there was negative response with DNA from Giardia lamblia, Toxoplasma gondii, Leishmania donovani and Entamoeba histolytica. The sensitivity and specificity for a single T. vaginalis cell per PCR was achieved. Axenic Culture, performed with long term axenized T. vaginalis culture system, was routinely examined to identify T. vaginalis. Results: The PCR based investigations with 498 vaginal swab samples from women attending OPD clinics of Halberg Hospital Moradabad and Queen Mary’s Hospital, Lucknow, India and 17 long term axenic cultures maintained at PGIMER, Chandigarh, India using primer set BTUB 1 & BTUB 2 showed sensitivity and specificity response of 98% and 100%, respectively, while wet preparation in clinically isolated samples responded up to 62.5%. The PCR product sequencing result of symptomatic strains (SS1) of T. vaginalis (744 bp long) was submitted to NCBI (Accession No: JF513200). It shows maximum identity 98 % with XM_001284521 Trichomonas vaginalis G-3 beta-tubulin (btub) putative partial mRNA. Conclusions: The data gathered in the present study entail that the diagnosis of T. vaginalis infection by PCR may be established as a sensitive and specific protocol, to be incorporated into a joint strategy for the screening of multiple STDs by employing molecular amplification technique. The merits and precautions of the protocol have been discussed.

362-366

Authors: Ana Rachel Oliveira de Andrade, Maria Elizabeth Moraes Cavalheiros Dorva, Sonia Maria Oliveira de Andrade, Alisson Marques, Baldomero Antonio Kato da Silva, Renato Andreotti

Objective: To identify the urban phlebotomine sandfly fauna in Ponta Pora, Mato Grosso do Sul State, Brazil. Methods: The captures were undertaken from April 2009 to March 2010 with CDC light traps in 14 ecotopes (intra and peridomicile) in different areas of the city, Shannon traps being used in areas with abundant vegetation. Results: A total of 707 specimens were captured with CDC light traps (565 males and 142 females) and 155 specimens (112 males and 43 females) with Shannon traps, a total of 862 phlebotomines. The specimens captured belonged to eight species: Lutzomyia longipalpis (Lutz & Neiva, 1912), Evandromyia cortelezzii (Brethes, 1923), Sciopemyia sordelli (Shannon & Del Ponte, 1927), Pintomyia pessoai (Coutinho & Barretto, 1940); Pintomyia monticola (Costa Lima, 1932); Brumptomyia brumpti (Larousse, 1920); Nyssomyia whitmani (Antunes & Coutinho, 1939) and Psathyromyia shannoni (Dyar, 1929). Lutzomyia longipalpis, the main vector of Leishmania (Leishmania) chagasi, was the species most frequently captured (97.03%) and also the most abundant according to the standardized abundance index (SAI)=0.86. Conclusions: The highest species richness was captured, with CDC light traps, inside the domiciles and the species diversity and evenness in the peridomicile, clearly indicating a preference for anthropic environments.

370-374

Authors: Samuel Jacob Inbaneson, Sundaram Ravikumar

Objective: To identify the possible antiplasmodial drugs from bacteria associated with marine sponge Stylissa carteri (S. carteri). Methods: The S. carteri samples were collected from Thondi coast and subjected for enumeration and isolation of associated bacteria. Filter sterilized extracts (100, 50, 25, 12.5, 6.25 and 3.125 μg/mL) from isolated bacterial isolates were screened for antiplasmodial activity against Plasmodium falciparum (P. falciparum) and potential extracts were also screened for biochemical constituents. Results: Twelve samples of S. carteri were collected and subjected for enumeration and isolation of associated bacteria. The count of bacterial isolates were maximum in November 2007 (34×10 4 CFU/g) and the average count was maximum during the monsoon season (203×10 3 CFU/g). Thirty two morphologically different bacterial isolates were isolated from S. carteri and the ethyl acetate bacterial extracts were screened for antiplasmodial activity against P. falciparum. The antiplasmodial activity of a isolate THB17 (IC50 20.56 μg/ mL) extract is highly comparable with the positive control chloroquine (IC50 19.59 μg/mL) and 13 bacterial extracts which showed IC50 value of more than 100 μg/mL. Statistical analysis reveals that, significant in vitro antiplasmodial activity (P<0.05) was observed between the concentrations and time of exposure. The chemical injury to erythrocytes showed no morphological changes in erythrocytes by the ethyl acetate extract of bacterial isolates after 48 h of incubation. The in vitro antiplasmodial activity might be due to the presence of reducing sugars and alkaloids in the ethyl acetate extracts of bacterial isolates. Conclusions: The ethyl acetate extract of THB17 possesses lead compounds for the development of antiplasmodial drugs.

381-384

Authors: Nejati Jalil, Keyhani Amir, Moosa-Kazemi Seyed Hasan, Mohammadi Mahdi, Mahjoob Monireh, Boostanbakhsh Atefeh

Objective: To identify the relationship between different species of cockroaches with their bacterial infection in different wards of Hamedan county hospitals, western Iran. Methods: Using sticky trap, hand collection and glass trap, 250 cockroaches were collected from 14 wards of 5 hospitals. After having their identification determined by detection key, all of them were used to isolate bacteria from cuticle and alimentary tract. Results: From four identified species, Blatella germanica were the most common in all of the wards (88.8%) and next was the Periplaneta Americana (8%). 20 bacteria species isolated from cockroaches' surface and 21 from digestive organ. Escherichia coli were the most predominant bacteria isolated from external surface (26.5 %) as well as alimentary tract (30.8%). The frequency of investigated bacteria on cockroaches' body surface was not significantly different between Periplaneta Americana and Blattella germanica except for Kllebsiella oxytoca (P<0.001) and Providensia Spp (P=0.035). Also, frequency of detected bacteria in cockroaches' digestive organ was not significantly different between these two species. Furthermore, the frequency of bacteria isolated from the cockroaches' external surface was not significantly different from that of digestive organ except for shigella disantery (P<0.001), Pseudomonas aeroginosa (P<0.001) and Klebsiella oxytoca (P=0.013). Conclusions: Since cockroaches can carry pathogenic bacteria, so their existence in the hospitals could be a serious public health problem. It is suggested to compile programs in order to control cockroaches especially in the hospitals.

390-394

Authors: Akpera MT, Oguntayo BO, Jombo GTA

Objective: Extracts of Ganoderma species have been widely used as herbal medicines in the treatment of several infections. This study was carried out to ascertain the haematological properties of aqueous Ganoderma applanatum (G. applanatum). Methods: Sixty albino rats grouped into six equal groups (10 each) of A to F consisting of tests and controls. Laboratory albino rats in groups A, B and C were infected with Trypanosoma brucei brucei (T. brucei brucei) while groups A and B (test) were treated with aqueous G. applanatum extract; other groups served as control. Microscopy and haematological profiles from the albino rats were monitored on daily basis for blood parasites, packed cell volume (PCV), haemoglobin concentration (HC), total red blood cell count (RBC), mean cell haemoglobin (MCH), mean cell volume (MCV), mean cell haemoglobin concentration (MCHC), and total white blood cell count (WBC). Results: Albino rats in groups A, B and C infected with T. brucei brucei and treated with various concentrations of aqueous G. applanatum showed a progressive reduction in PCV, HC, RBC, MCH and MCHC compared to the controls (P<0.05). All the infected rats died by day 14 of the experiment from parasitaemia. Conclusions: G. applanatum lacks ability to boost haematological profiles of anaemic laboratory rats and also of no use in the treatment of African trypanosomiasis. Higher doses of the fungal extract may be required to test on laboratory rats with less lethal biological stimulants of anaemia before proving or otherwise its true haematological properties.

401-404

Authors: M Syed Ali, S Ravikumar, J Margaret Beula

Objective: To identify the larvicidal activity of the mangrove plant extracts. Methods: Parts (bark, root, leaf and flower) of mangrove plants, Avicennia marina (A. marina), Acanthus ilicifolius, Bruguiera cylindrica and Excoecaria agallocha (E. agallocha), were dissolved in DMSO to prepare a graded series of concentration. Batches of 25 early 4th instars larvae of Aedes aegypti (Ae. aegypti) were transferred to a 250 mL enamel bowl containing 199 mL of distilled water and 1 mL of plant extracts (0.01-0.10 mg). Each experiment was conducted with three replicates and a concurrent control group. A control group consisted of 1 mL of DMSO and 199 mL of distilled water only. After 24 h, the percentage of mortality was determined. Results: The bark extract of A. marina showed maximum larvicidal activity against the 4th instars larvae of Ae. aegypti, followed by the leaf extract of E. agallocha. The presence of flavonoids, terpinoids and sponins in the ethanolic extracts of A. marina might be responsible for the larvicidal activity. Conclusions: It is concluded from the present study that the mosquitocidal toxins of A. marina might be a prospective alternative in mosquito control programme involving mangrove biopesticides.

411-413

Authors: R Gokulakrishnan, S Ravikumar, J Anandha Raj

Objective: To investigate the antibacterial potential of 5 different metal oxide nanoparticles against antibiotic resistant bacterial pathogens viz., Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella sp. Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus sp. Methods: The antibacterial activity of the five different nanoparticles was assessed by well diffusion method. Different concentrations of the nanoparticles were analyzed by MIC and MBC techniques. Finally the potential MgO nanoparticle was also subjected for the time kill assay method. Results: The results reveal that, the MgO nanoparticle showed maximum sensitivity [(16.00依0.53) mm dia] against Streptococcus pneumoniae and showed minimum sensitivity against Klebsiella sp. [(9.00依 0.31) mm dia]. None of the nanoparticles showed sensitivity against the Streptococcus sp. The MIC result reveals that, the MgO nanoparticle showed maximum inhibition at a concentration of 10 μg against Streptococcus pneumoniae. Moreover, the time kill assay reveals that, the bacterial growth was inhibited from the 2nd h onwards at a concentration of 10μg. Conclusions: It is concluded from the present findings that, the MgO nanoparticle could be used as an alternative antibacterial agent after completing successful in vivo trials.

417-418

Authors: Anushre Prasad, Ritesh Kumar, Harini Ramanan, Nalini Khandige, Krishnananda Prabhu

Rhabdomyolysis is a clinical and biochemical syndrome that occurs due to skeletal muscle injury. The main cause of rhabdomyolysis is muscle crush injury, toxins, ischemia, metabolic disorders, and drugs. Rare cases of rhabdomyolysis have been reported after insect stings. Damage to skeletal muscle may be due to physical damage to muscle cells directly or due to interferences with their blood supply. Breakdown products of damaged muscle cells are released into the bloodstream; some of these, such as the protein myoglobin, are harmful to the kidneys and may lead to kidney failure. The symptoms of rhabdomyolysis depend on the severity of the condition. Milder forms of rhabdomyolysis may not cause any muscle symptoms, and the diagnosis is based on abnormal blood tests. Here in, we report an unusual case of rhabdomyolysis triggered by fire ant bites to alert the medical community of this rare complication.

260-263

Authors: Doroodgar A, Sayyah M, Doroodgar M, Mahbobi S, Nemetian M, Rafizadeh S, Rassi Y

Objective: To investigate the prevalence of cutaneous leishmaniasis in important endemic focus of Kashan district, central of Iran during 2007-2008. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study and 5 098 individuals were selected from thirteen rural and urban districts of Kashan city. Information of positive cases including age, sex, job, number and sites of ulcers or scars, date and place of the ulcer, and results of clinical examination and laboratory tests were recorded. Diagnoses of affected cases were based on clinical examination and microscopic observation of the ulcer parasite. The results were analyzed with statistical Chi-square test. Results: An infection prevalence rate of 6.4% was obtained among 5 098 individuals. Regarding to 326 affected cases, 103 (2.0%) and 223 (4.4%) persons were observed with active lesion and scars, respectively. The highest frequency of active ulcer rate (23.3%) was associated with age group of 20-29 years old, while the lowest rate was related to age group of 0-9 years old with 7.8% infection. About 49.5% of the infected cases were under 30 years old. This study showed 64.1% of cases with one and the rest of them with two or more ulcers. Hands (46.6%) were the most affected parts of body. Conclusions: There is a progressive increasing of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Kashan district and this is a warning to local health workers to provide prevention as well as control program of the disease.

268-272

Authors: Tanasak Changbunjong, Thekhawet Weluwanarak, Namaoy Toawan, Parut Suksai, Poonyapat Sedwisai, Tatiyanuch Chamsai, Charoonluk Jirapattharasate, Sivapong Sungpradit, Yudthana Samung, Parntep Ratanakorn

Objective: To investigate the distribution of mosquito species in the zoos and in important sites of migratory and resident birds and evaluate West Nile virus (WNV) infection in mosquito species. Methods: Mosquitoes distribution investigation was carried out bimonthly from January 2009 to December 2010 in five areas of birds, Thailand by using Centers for Disease Control, light traps, and gravid traps. Mosquitoes were identified, pooled into groups of up to 50 mosquitoes by species, places and time of collection and tested for WNV infection by viral isolation and reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. Results: A total of 66 597 mosquitoes comprising 26 species in 8 genera were collected. The five most abundant mosquito species collected were Culex tritaeniorhynchus (79.3%), Culex vishnui (8.2%), Culex sitiens (6%), Culex quinquefasciatus (3.3%) and Anopheles peditaeniatus (1.1%). All 1 736 mosquito pools were negative for viral isolation and reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. Conclusions: This study provides new information on number of mosquito species present and their relative abundance. Although our study found no evidence of WNV in the avifaunal sources of Thailand, mosquito active surveillance should be continuously conducted. The cooperation between related organizations is needed for early detection of WNV disease and development of effective veterinary and public health policies in this region.

282-285

Authors: Victor T. Gugong, Ikwe Ajogi, Kabir Junaidu, Emmanuel C. Okolocha, Emmanuel O. Ngbede, Maurice N. Abraham, Sunday E. Hambolu

Objective: To assess the presence of antibodies to the avian influenza virus H5 subtype in village chickens. Methods: A total of 480 sera samples were obtained from apparently healthy local chickens in four local government areas (LGAs). The sera samples were subjected to the haemagglutination inhibition (HI) test using the H5N2 avian influenza antigen. Results: An overall prevalence of 2.92% with a mean antibody titre of (7.07±0.73) log2 was obtained. There was a low level of awareness of avian influenza among the rural dwellers, the electronic and print media were the most common source of awareness. Conclusions: This result highlights the important role apparently healthy village chickens may play in virus perpetuation (reservoir) and in the spread of avian influenza to other animals and humans.

290-292

Authors: Dharukaswami. Mallayya. Koradhanyamath, Praveen Kulkarni, Ramesh Holla

Objective: To describe the socio demographic characteristics of beneficiaries of the Mass Drug Administration (MDA) programme, to assess the coverage, compliance and causes for noncompliance towards MDA in the district, to assess the awareness regarding elephantiasis among beneficiaries and to assess the knowledge of drug distributors towards the filariasis and MDA programme. Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted in 3 rural and 1 urban clusters in Bidar district for the period of 1 week. 50 houses were selected in each cluster by systematic random sampling method and data was collected in a structured proforma by interview technique. Results: Majority of beneficiaries were at the age group of 15-60 years (72.3%) and male (53%). The overall coverage of MDA in Bidar district was 62.3%. Compliance among those who had received the tablets was 60.4%. Coverage and compliance was more in rural areas compared to urban. The most common reason quoted for not consuming drugs was fear of adverse effects (72.2%) The incidence of adverse events was 0.2%. Even though 75% of them were aware of the disease elephantiasis, only 45.4% had knowledge regarding MDA programme. The knowledge of drug distributors towards MDA and filariasis was found to be adequate. Conclusions: Coverage and compliance towards MDA in Bidar district was poor. The coverage and compliance in rural areas was higher compared to the urban areas.

297-300

Authors: Patcharee Hongsmatip, Jenjeera Prueksadee

Objective: To describe mammographic characterization of breast cancer associated with axillary lymph node metastasis at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital. Methods: The data were collected retrospectively from female patients with breast cancers who underwent breast surgery and axillary node dissection at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital during January 1, 2004 and July 31, 2011. One hundred and ninety histopathologically proven cases of invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) were randomly recruited; consisted of ninety-five patients with axillary lymph node metastasis and the rest of patients without axillary lymph node metastasis. All patients were reviewed their mammograms with additional ultrasounds and correlation between each mammographic characteristic and ipsilateral node involvement was analyzed, using P-value (P), Odd ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). Results: Mammographic characterization associated with the highest risk of axillary node metastasis was malignant pattern of ipsilateral axillary node (P < 0.001; OR = 44.53; 95% CI = 13.10 - 151.37) with following by intermediate pattern of ipsilateral axillary node (P = 0.002; OR=5.18; 95% CI = 1.79 - 15.04). The other characteristics in descending orders for associated with axillary node involvement are upper outer quadrant tumors associated risk of ipsilateral axillary node involvement (P = 0.02; OR = 3.36; 95% CI = 1.23 - 9.14) and size of breast cancer by additional ultrasound (P = 0.04; OR = 1.48; 95% CI = 1.02-2.17). There was no association between risk of axillary node involvement and the rest of mammographic findings, including microcalcification of the tumor, vascularity of the tumor and size of axillary node. Conclusions: The highest predictive risk of axillary node metastasis in breast cancer was malignant axillary node pattern. The moderate risk was intermediate axillary node pattern and the lower risks were the tumor located in upper outer quadrant and increased tumor size. These results will be helpful for diagnostic mammogram to imply prognosis of breast cancer before patient undergo biopsy or surgical procedure.

307-311

Authors: K Sujith, C Ronald Darwin, Sathish, V Suba

Objective: To explore the potential effect of ethanolic extract of Anacyclus pyrethrum (A. pyrethrum) in memory dysfunction. Methods: Memory impairment was produced by administration of scopolamine (1mg/kg i. p) in rats. Passive avoidance paradigms, elevated plus maze and social learning task was used to assess learning and memory. Results: A. pyrethrum extract treated group decreased transfer latency in elevated plus maze model paradigm which is an indicative of cognition improvement. In case of passive avoidance paradigm extract treated group exhibited prounced effect in reversal of scopolamine induced amnesia which was revealed by increase in step down latency. Social learning task also revealed the memory enhancing activity of A. pyrethrum extract. Conclusions: Ethanolic extract of A. pyrethrum has been demonstrated to improve cognitive processes by enhancing memory in different experimental paradigms such as passive avoidance paradigms, elevated plus maze and social learning task when administered orallyBrain cholinesterase level was measured to assess central cholinergic activity. The treatment with drugs, which increase cholinergic neurotransmission, causes an improvement in cognitive deficits. The present study suggest that ethanolic extract of A. pyrethrum increased brain cholinesterase level and hence it possess memory enhancing activity in scopolamine induced amnesia model by enhancing central cholinergic neurotransmission.

319-323

Authors: Samuel Jacob Inbaneson, Sundaram Ravikumar

Objective: To identify the possible antiplasmodial drugs from bacteria associated with marine sponge Clathria vulpina (C. vulpina). Methods: The C. vulpina samples were collected from Thondi coast and subjected to enumeration and isolation of associated bacteria. Filtered and sterilized extracts (100, 50, 25, 12.5, 6.25 and 3.125 μg/mL) from bacterial isolates were screened for antiplasmodial activity against Plasmodium falciparum. Potential extracts were also screened for biochemical constituents. Results: Thirty one bacterial isolates were isolated from twelve sponge samples collected from Thondi coast and screened for antiplasmodial assay. The count of bacterial strains were maximum in November 2007 (19×10 4 CFU/g) and the average count was maximum during the monsoon season (110×10 3 CFU/g). The antiplasmodial activity of isolate THB15 was highly comparable (IC50 = 20.73 μg/mL) with the positive control chloroquine (IC50 = 19.59 μg/mL) and 21 bacterial isolates showed IC50 value of more than 100 μg/mL. Statistical analysis reveals that, significant in vitro antiplasmodial activity (P<0.05) was observed between the concentrations and time of exposure. The chemical injury to erythrocytes showed no morphological changes in erythrocytes by the ethyl acetate extract of bacterial isolates after 48 h of incubation. The in vitro antiplasmodial activity might be due to the presence of sugars and alkaloids in the ethyl acetate extracts of bacterial isolates. Conclusions: The ethyl acetate extract of THB15 possesses lead compounds for the development of antiplasmodial drugs.

327-330

Authors: Visweswara Rao P, Sujana P, Vijayakanth T, Dhananjaya Naidu M

Objective: To find out the protective action of methanolic extract of Rhinacanthus nasutus (R. nasutus) on lipid peroxidation (LPO) activities and enzymatic antioxidants of liver in streptozotocin (STZ) induced diabetic rats. Methods: Experimental diabetes was induced by a single dose of STZ (50 mg/kg) through intraperitoneal injection. The oxidative stress was measured by tissue LPO level and by enzymatic activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) in liver. Results: The raise in LPO levels with reduction in enzymatic activities was the outstanding features observed in diabetic control rats. Administration of R. nasutus (200 mg/kg body weight per day) for 30 days caused a significant reduction in LPO level in STZ induced diabetic rats (group IV) when compared with diabetic control rats (group III). Moreover, R. nasutus treated diabetic rats (group IV) showed significant increase in the activities of enzymatic antioxidants when compared to diabetic control rats (group III). Conclusions: The results obtained specify the ameliorating effects of R. nasutus in the role of oxidative stress created in the experimental diabetic rats.

335-336

Authors: Zahra Bayat Jozani, Seyed Ahmad Seyed Alinaghi, Somayeh Agha Mollaie, Alireza Solaymani

In Iran tetanus is a rare disease since routine vaccination with Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus (DPT) in accordance with the WHO immunization recommendations. We report on the case of an Afghan 14-year-old boy admitted to the Imam Khomeini Hospital with tetanus presenting with muscle and neck spasms pointing out to the small number of reported cases that are mainly due to failure of Iran's immunization programs among immigrant laborers. Therefore, each patient of tetanus may be considered as a failure of health care system to provide adequate immunization.