Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Disease

262-268

Authors: Mohammad Amzad Hossain, Saliha Rashid AL Harbi, Afaf Mohammed Weli, Qasim Al-Riyami, Jamal Nasser Al-Sabahi

Objective: To analyze three essential oils isolated from three different brands' clove samples collected from Gulf region and tested their antimicrobial activities. Methods: The essential oils were isolated from powder clove samples by water distillation method and analyzed and identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Antimicrobial activities of the three isolated essential oils were calculated on the diameter inhibition zone by disc diffusion method against three bacterial strains with amoxicillin standard. Results: Twenty-eight, twenty-two and twenty-six chemical ingredients with high percentage were characterized based on gas chromatography retention time from clove essential oils collected from Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirate and Jordan. The highest antimicrobial activity was obtained from Saudi Arab against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonus aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus and the lowest was from Jordan and the order of antimicrobial activity was Saudi Arabia>United Arab Emirate>Jordan. Conclusions: All three essential oils from Gulf region are containing very portent chemical ingredients and it could be used as medicine or antibiotics for different aliments.

275-280

Authors: Abu Bakar Siddique, Syed Mohammad Mizanur Rahman, Mohammad Amzad Hossain, Mohammad Amzad Hossain, Mohammad Abdur Rashid

Objective: To evaluate in vitro antimicrobial potential and phytochemical screening of the crude extracts of leaves of Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni. Methods: The essential oil and crude extracts were prepared by using different usual method. Antimicrobial and antifungal activities were measured by the well established methods. Results: Highest antifungal index [(12.13±0.08) mm)] and lowest antifungal index [(9.13±0.04) mm] as well as highest antibacterial index [(11.89±0.07) mm] and lowest antibacterial index [(7.24±0.03) mm] were obtained for extracts B, H, A and F, respectively. Invariably extract C, E, I, J and H did not show antimicrobial activity. The extract F showed all antifungal and antibacterial activity except Bacillus cereus and Bacillus megaterium. Conclusions: The above findings support the idea that plant extracts of Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni leaves may have a role to be used as pharmaceuticals or preservatives.

287-291

Authors: Suburamaniyan Vijayakumar, Andeson Amirthanathn

Objective: To identify the larvicidal activity of the seagrass extracts against Culex quinquefasciatus (Cx. quinquefasciatus) Methods: Seagrass extracts, Halodule pinifolia (H. pinifolia), Cymodocea serrulata (C. serrulata) and Thalasia testudinum (T. testudinum) were dissolved in dimethylsulfoxide to prepare a graded series of concentration. Batches of 25 early 4th instars larvae of Cx. quinquefasciatus were transferred to 250 mL enamel bowl containing 199 mL of distilled water and 1 mL of plant extracts (0.01 mg-0.1 mg). After 24 h the mortality rate was identified with the formulae [(% of test mortality - % of control mortality)/(100 - % of control mortality)]×100. Each experiment was conducted with three replicates and a concurrent control group. A control group consisted of 1 mL of dimethylsulfoxide and 199 mL of distilled water only. Results: The root extract of H. pinifolia showed maximum larvicidal activity with minimum concentration of extract of LC50 value of (0.614±0.006) µg/mL with lower confidence limit-upper confidence limit value of (0.052-0.072) and LC90 value of 0.9120 µg/mL followed by leaf extract of C. serrulata LC50 value of (0.074±0.008) µg/mL and LC90 value of 0.1487 µg/mL. T. testudinum leaf extract showed LC50 value of (0.082±0.006) µg/mL. The regression equation of root and leaf extract of H. pinifolia for 4 th instar larvae of Cx. quinquefasciatus were Y=5.229+1.36x (R2 =0.993) and Y=2.369+1.21x (R2 =0.878) respectively and analysis of variation was significant at P<0.05 level. The result of the preliminary phytochemical constituents showed the presence of saponin, steroids, terpenoid, phenols, protein and sugars. Conclusions: From the present study the ethanolic extracts of seagrass of H. pinifolia possess lead compound for development of larvicidal activity.

297-300

Authors: Laudari Shankar, Patowary Bhanumati Saikia, Nanda Kumar, Dewan Khusraj, Subedi Kumudini, Toyana Ramsundar, Panjiyar Rajesh, Karki Dipesh

Objective: To study the pattern of acute febrile illnesses in Central Nepal regarding its underlying etiology and its clinical outcome. Methods: This study is a hospital based descriptive cross-sectional study during June to November, 2011 over a period of 6 months. All the febrile illnesses data were collected from medical outpatient and inpatient registried and then analysed. There were total 2 873 febrile patients, of whom 883 were inpatients whose data have been analysed. Results: The majority of febrile patients were distributed in August (788/2 873=27.43%) followed by July (708/2 873=24.64%). The age distribution ranged from 15 to 84 years with female predisposition (M:F=1:1.5). Majority of the febrile patients were in the 15-30 years age group (292/883=33.07%) followed by elderly (>60 years, 22.88%). Most of the febrile patients admitted in medical ward were diagnosed as respiratory tract infection followed by urinary tract infection, enteric fever, acute gastroenteritis. Of intensive care unit admitted febrile patients (n=187), sepsis with multi-organ dysfunction syndrome was the major diagnosis followed by acute meningoencephalitis. A total of 21 patients (2.37%) died of sepsis with multi-organ dysfunction syndrome followed by acute meningoencephalitis in 5 (0.56%), complicated malaria with acute respiratory distress syndrome in 1 (0.11%) and infective hepatitis with encephalopathy in 1 (0.11%). Conclusions: Acute febrile illnesses mostly viral in origin involving respiratory tracts are more common during monsoon months with lots of mortalities and morbidities. They pose a major threat to the public due to their endemicity as many of them remain undiagnosed or if at all, very late. Early and planned activity of the government and non-government local bodies, epidemic preparedness against susceptible outbreaks including efficient public health awareness are the keys to minimize the hazards.

306-312

Authors: Kehinde Adesola Umeizudike, Patricia Omowunmi Ayanbadejo, Kofoworola Olaide Savage, Alani Sulaimon Akanmu, Solomon Olusegun Nwhator, Christian Ibezi Emeka

Objective: To determine the prevalence and determinants of chronic periodontitis in HIV positive patients. Methods: A total of 120 HIV positive patients attending the dedicated HIV outpatient clinic of the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Nigeria were recruited for the study. Their periodontal status was assessed using the community periodontal index of treatment needs. Their CD4+ cell count was determined using the flow-cytometer method. The risk factors for periodontitis including age, gender, education, smoking, CD4+ cell counts, bleeding on probing (BOP) were determined. Results: Prevalence of periodontitis was high (63.3%) in the HIV positive patients. In a bivariate analysis, significant associations were observed between severity of periodontitis and age ≥35 years (P=0.021), male gender (P=0.005), smoking (P=0.040) and ≥3 community periodontal index of treatment needs sextants exhibiting BOP (P=0.004). In a binary logistic regression, independent predictors of periodontitis were ≥3 sextants exhibiting BOP (odds ratio 1.738, 95% CI 1.339 to 2.256, P=0.000) and age ≥35 years (odds ratio 1.057, 95% CI 1.005 to 1.111, P=0.030). The CD4+ cell counts were not associated with periodontitis in the HIV positive patients (P=0.988). Conclusions: A high prevalence of periodontitis was found among the HIV positive Nigerian patients in this study. Older age ≥35 years and BOP were the determinants of periodontitis. There is therefore a need for close periodontal monitoring of HIV positive Nigerian patients with emphasis on preventive, professional oral prophylaxis.

315-316

Authors: Mahmoud Bahmani, Mahmoud Rafieian-Kopaei

No

323-328

Authors: Giacomet Vania, Vigano Alessandra, Nannini Pilar, Penagini Francesca, Erba Paola, Zuccotti Gianvincenzo

Infection with the protozoan Toxoplasma gondii is one of the most frequent parasitic infections worldwide and the common infection of the retina in the general population. We describe a case report of a chorioretinitis in an immunocompetent 8-year-old patient as a consequence of a underdiagnosed neonatal toxoplasmosis. The boy was successfully managed with pyrimethamine and sulfadiazine. The present case we would like to empathize the importance of considering toxoplasma gondii as a possible cause of chorioretinitis in children living in developed countries and we provide a detailed reviewed of the literature about treatment of Toxoplasma gondii infection.

333-336

Authors: Ali Sharafi Chegeni, Behrouz Ezatpour, Mohammad Saki, Hamid Mokhayeri, Siavash Adavi, Elham Nasiri, Mehdi Azami

Objective: To survey the seroprevalence of brucellosis among nomads in Shoulabad, Lorestan province, Iran. Methods: In this descriptive study, a total of 5 847 person took part by randomized cluster sampling and 312 of them with clinical feature of brucellosis were selected. The diagnosis of brucellosis was made with a standard tube agglutination test (STAT), Coombs test, and 2-mercaptoethanol (2ME) test, and the results with titers equal 1:80 or more were considered positive. Results: The seroprevalnce of anti-Brucella titer was 29.5% for STAT, 29.9% for Coombs test and 21.1% for 2ME test. Overall, 92, 93 and 66 patients had titers of 1:80 or higher in STAT, Coombs test and 2ME test, respectively. Seroprevalence was more among males (54.3%) than females (45.7%). There is statistical difference between seroprevalence of infection and age (P<0.05). Based on age group, 10-19 years age group was more affected (37%). Conclusions: This results confirmed the necessity of conducting comprehensive and scheduled program of seroprevalence survey, particularly in nomad area, which aims at reducing the incidence of brucellosis as well as to guide planning programs by decision makers to improve community health.

176-180

Authors: Abolfazl Mollalo, Abbas Alimohammadi, Mohsen Shahrisvand, Mohammad Reza Shirzadi, Mohammad Reza Malek

Objective: To investigate the relations between the vegetation cover and occurrence of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) in Golestan province during 2010-2012. Methods: Data of monthly CL incidence and remote sensing normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) of moderate resolution imaging spectroradiometer sensor were used in the study. Pearson’s correlation analysis was conducted to examine the type and strength of relationships between the spatially averaged NDVI variables (i.e. minimum, maximum and mean NDVI values) and CL incidence in township level. Spearman rank correlation was carried out to explain associations between the monthly CL incidence and NDVI variables at 0, 1, 2, 3 and 4 months lagged periods. Locations of CL cases at village level were geocoded and compared with frequency of CL cases in each NDVI-derived vegetation categories. Results: Pearson’s analysis revealed significant associations between the NDVI variables and CL incidence at the township level (P<0.05). Results of Spearman analysis indicated that the highest correlations between NDVI variables and monthly CL incidence were established when the NDVI time-series lagged the CL incidence series NDVI variables. Purely spatial analysis demonstrated that despite majority of cases occurred at partially-vegetated areas, the possibility of CL occurrence was higher in bare soil areas by taking into account area of each vegetation zones. Conclusions: lack or low vegetation cover is a major determinant of CL frequencies in Golestan province. The decrease of the mean vegetation density in townships is accompanied by increase of CL occurrence and vice versa.

185-189

Authors: Oluyinka O Okubanjo, Victor O Sekoni, Ologunja J Ajanusi, Andrew J Nok, Adewale A Adeyeye

Objective: To investigate the pathological effect of experimental Trypanosoma congolense (T. congolense) infection on the testes and epididymis of Yankasa rams. Methods: Nine intact un-castrated rams were obtained and divided into 2 groups of 6 infected with 1×106 T. congolense and 3 uninfected controls. Four infected and one uninfected control rams were sacrificed on Day 75 post infection and the remaining four rams (two each of infected and control groups) on Day 86 post infection. Results: All infected rams became parasitaemic within 7-11 days post infection with clinical trypanosomosis characterized by peri-orbital oedema and a transient period of scrotal oedema, this was followed by progressive decrease in scrotal size. At postmortem, the organs from infected rams were pale and emaciated but no observable lesion was seen in the uninfected control group. At histology, the testes showed areas of necrosis on the interstitial tissue characterized by destruction of cellular structures within the tissues and seminiferous tubules. There was moderate to severe testicular degeneration manifested by loss of tissue architecture and infiltration with macrophages, neutrophils, lymphocytes and plasma cells. Fibrous connective tissues were also seen in the testes of the infected rams indicative of replacement of normal cells by fibrous connective tissue. The epididymis of the infected rams had collection of some spermatocytes and desquamated epithelial cells in the epithelial ducts although others were devoid of spermatocytes in their ducts leading to loss of epididymal sperm reserves. However, these were not seen in the uninfected control rams. Conclusions: T. congolense causes testicular and epididymal damage which may render the rams infertile or sterile.

194-200

Authors: Khaled Elbanna, Khaled Attalla, Medhat Elbadry, Awad Abdeltawab, Hosny Gamal-Eldin, Mohamed Fawzy Ramadan

Objective: To study in vitro antibacterial activity and physicochemical properties of three unifloral honeys (citrus, clover and cotton honeys), and to study the impacts of storage, dilution with water (33%, w/v) and autoclaving (121 °C for 15 min) on honeys characteristics. Methods: Honey samples from monofloral sources including citrus (Citrus spp.), Egyptian clover (Trifolium alexandrium) and cotton (Gossypium vitifolium) were obtained during three successive seasons (2010-2012). Physicochemical properties and antimicrobial activities of different honey samples were studies. Results: In honey samples stored for 12 or 24 month, colour, hydroxymethyl furfural and acidity increased, while refractive index, water activity, total soluble solids, electrical conductivity and pH remained relatively unaffected, but H2O2 values decreased. Types of honey exhibited various degrees of antibacterial activity against different indicator bacteria, wherein the highest antibacterial activity was recorded for clover honey followed by citrus and cotton honeys, respectively. Different species of bacteria were differed in their sensitivity to honey, wherein Salmonella enteritidis was the most sensitive followed by Staphylococcus aureus, Listeria monocytogenes and Escherichia coli, respectively. Storage up to 24 months at room temperature slightly reduced the antibacterial activity. The reduction levels were about 2.6% and 4.6% after 12 and 24 months, respectively. Diluting honeys with water increased the antibacterial activity by ca. 8.3%, while autoclaving decreased the antibacterial activity by ca. 13.5%. The relative contribution of the peroxide and non-peroxide components in the total antibacterial activity of fresh honeys was investigated. The antibacterial activity of honeys was mainly attributed to non-peroxide antibacterial agents, wherein their contribution was ca. 88%, while the contribution of H2O2 was only 12%. The contribution of the thermostable antibacterial components in honey was ca. 86.8%. The antibacterial activity of the fresh clover honey was compared with the effect of 16 antibiotics on indicator bacteria. Clover honey exhibited antibacterial activity comparable to that exhibited by the tested antibiotics. Moreover, antibacterial activity of water diluted fresh clover honey was higher compared to some of tested antibiotics. Clover honey appeared to deserve further investigations, since it may prove to be a promise therapeutic honey. Conclusions: Honey samples tested in this study exhibited antibacterial activity against tested pathogenic bacteria, and this activity was mainly due to non-peroxide antibacterial factors. Clover honey appeared to deserve further investigations, since it may prove to be a promising therapeutic honey.

204-206

Authors: Beuy Joob, Viroj Wiwanitkit

The widespread of the Escherichia coli outbreak in Europe becomes an important public concern at global level. The infection can be serious and might result in death. The retrospective literature review on this specific topic is performed. In this specific brief article, the author presented and discussed on the problem of Escherichia coli infection in the cancerous patients. This is an actual important issue in medical oncology for the scenario of Escherichia coli epidemic.

210-212

Authors: Mahmoud Bahmani, Seyed Ahmad Karamati, Morteza Mohamad Hosseini Anari, Amir Rahimirad, Jafar Asadzadeh, Aghakhan Kheiri, Ghader Hajiglolizadeh, Fereidoun Ghotbian, Farzaneh Bahmani

Leeches (phylum: Annelida, class: hirudinea) could infest wide range of livestock such as cow, buffalo, sheep, goat, horse, mule, ass, dog, pig and even human. In November 2013, a 3-year old jackass from Dehloran county, Ilam province, Iran, was infected through his mouth due to drinking spring water. Symptoms including stress, anxiety and tachycardia were seen. After examining oral cavity of jackass, a leech was observed in upper gum. The leech was measured after separation which was three inches in length. The leech was adult which has dark green with orange lines, and it was identified as Limnatis nilotica species. It seems that using spring, subterranean water, pond etc. is the main causes of livestock infestation with leech. Ranchers could be recommended to decontaminate leech waters to prevent further leech infestation cases.

223-252

Authors: Seng Koon Lim, Peng Chen, Shabbir Moochhala, Bo Liedberg

Introduction: Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), or endotoxin, a major component in the outer cell membrane of Gram-negative bacteria is a very powerful and toxic inflammatory stimulator, resulting in sepsis or septic shock, a significant medical problem affecting about 700 000 patients and causing 250 000 casualties annually in the United States itself. The detection of LPS is highly importance. However, the currently used enzymatic limulus amebocyte lysate assay is highly susceptible to changes in temperature and pH, interference factors, and requires cumbersome sample preparation. A more cost-effective, sensitive and robust detection method is needed. Objective: To design and develop biosensor for LPS detection by assembling a LPS-binding peptide (as LPS receptor) with graphene oxide (GO, as fluorescence quencher). Methods: GO was synthesized using a modified Hummer’s method. A synthetic LPS-binding peptide was designed, fluorescent labelled, and assembled with GO in PBS buffer solution. The fluorescence recovery of the peptide-GO was measured upon addition of LPS from Gram negative bacteria: E. coli, K. pneumoniae, Samonella Thyphosa, P. aeruginosa, as well as living pathogenic bacteria. Specificity tests were conducted with various biological molecules to evaluate the sensing performance. Results & Discussion: Specific binding of LPS with peptide release the peptides from GO, resulting in fluorescence recovery, allowing ultrasensitive detection of LPS with the limit of detection of 130 pM, the most sensitive synthetic LPS sensors to-date. The LPS sensor is highly selective to LPS than other biological species. Conclusion: We developed a peptide-GO assembled fluorescence sensor for ultrasensitive and specific LPS/endotoxin detection. This is the most sensitive synthetic LPS sensor reported in the world.

88-96

Authors: Umar Saeed, Yasir Waheed, Muhammad Ashraf

Hepatitis B and hepatitis C viruses (HCV) are frequently propagating blood borne pathogens in global community. Viral hepatitis is primarily associated with severe health complications, such as liver cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, hepatic fibrosis and steatosis. A literature review was conducted on hepatitis B virus (HBV), HBV genome, genotypic distribution and global epidemiology of HBV, HCV, HCV genome, HCV and host immune responses, HCV genotypic distribution and global epidemiology. The valued information was subjected for review. HBV has strict tissue tropism to liver. The virus infecting hepatocytes produces large amount of hepatitis B surface antigen particles which lack the DNA. It has capability to integrate into host genome. It has been found that genotype C is most emerging genotype associated with more severe liver diseases (cirrhosis). The approximate prevalence rate of genotype C is 27.7% which represents a major threat to future generations. Approximately 8% of population is chronic carrier of HBV in developing countries. The chronic carrier rate of HBV is 2%-7% in Middle East, Eastern and Southern Europe, South America and Japan. Among HCV infected individuals, 15% usually have natural tendency to overcome acute viral infection, where as 85% of individuals were unable to control HCV infection. The internal ribosomal entry site contains highly conserved structures important for binding and appropriate positioning of viral genome inside the host cell. HCV infects only in 1%-10% of hepatocytes, but production of tumor necrosis factor alpha (from CD8+ cells) and interferon-gamma cause destruction of both infected cells and non-infected surrounding cells. Almost 11 genotypes and above 100 subtypes of HCV exists worldwide with different geographical distribution. Many efforts are still needed to minimize global burden of these infections. For the complete eradication of HBV (just like small pox and polio) via vaccination strategies, sincere efforts would be required from government and nongovernmental organizations.

104-109

Authors: Nesrine Ouda Amari, Mohamed Bouzouina, Abdellah Berkani, Brahim Lotmani

Objective: To assess antioxidant activities of different aerial parts of Thymelaea hirsuta (T. hirsuta) from west Algeria, and to search for new sources of safe and inexpensive antioxidants. Methods: Samples of leaves, stems and flowers from T. hirsuta were tested for total phenolic content, flavonoids content, and evaluation its total antioxidant activity, were done using the spectrophotometric analyses. Results: Results of preliminary phytochemical screening of leaf, flower and stem of T. hirsuta revealed the presence of tannins, alkaloids, steroids, saponins, coumarins, reducteurs compound and anthraquinones. The total phenolics and flavonoids were estimated. The aqueous extracts of the aerial parts of T. hirsuta showed potent in vitro antioxydant activities using various models viz, DPPH scavenging assay, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and ABTS radical scavenging activity. Conclusions: On the basis of the results obtained, T. hirsuta extracts are rich sources of natural antioxidants appears to be an alternative to synthetic antioxidants and this justifies its therapeutic usage.

115-119

Authors: Tajeldin Mohammedien Abdallah, Hashim Balla Mohammed, Mamoon Hassan Mohammed, Abdel Aziem Abdalla Ali

Objective: To investigate the prevalence of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) among patients with dyspepsia and to evaluate the correlation between H. pylori infection and socio-demographic factors. Methods: This cross-sectional hospital-based study, which ran from June to August 2012, determined seroprevalence of H. pylori among adult patients in Eastern Sudan. The presence of H. pylori was determined using ELISA. Results: A total of 225 adult Sudanese patients were enrolled in the study. Of these, 148 (65.8%) tested positive for H. pylori. In logistic regression analysis, rural residency (OR=3.933, CI=1.337- 11.26, P=0.01) was the only socio-demographic factor that was associated with H. pylori infection. The most common symptoms among seropositive patients were heartburn (OR=30.442, CI=9.478- 97.776, P≤0.001) and/or epigastria pain (OR=28.225, CI=4.365-182.508, P≤0.001). Conclusions: Clinical suspicion can facilitate the detection of H. pylori among patients with dyspeptic symptoms in a geographic area with high prevalence of H. pylori infection.

125-130

Authors: Ahmad Oryan, Mohammad Hashemnia, Ahmad-Reza Hamidi, Adel Mohammadalipour

Objective: To evaluated the differential effects of ethanol extraction of Citrullus colocynthis (C. colocynthis) on the blood glucose concentration and pathology of pancreas, liver, lungs, kidney and gastrointestinal tract in the alloxan induced diabetes in rats. Methods: Diabetes mellitus was induced in 20 adult female Albino rats, using intraperitoneal injection of 120 mg/kg alloxan. The diabetic rats were randomly assigned into two equal groups. The first group was treated with the extract of C. colocynthis seed (300 mg/kg) and the rats of the second group, as an untreated diabetic group, received ordinary diet. Ten non diabetic rats remained as a normal control group. Results: The results of this study indicate that C. colocynthis was able to reduce blood glucose significantly compared with the control diabetic group (P<0.05). Histopathologically, alloxan resulted in severe necrotic changes in the pancreatic islets, especially in the central area of the islets. Tissue sections of the pancreas in the treated rats demonstrated enhanced regeneration of B cells and increased size of pancreatic islets. Liver of the treated diabetic rats revealed significant improvement of the hepatic tissue compared to those of the untreated diabetic rats. Conclusions: The present study indicated a significant anti-hyperglycemic effect of C. colocynthis seed and supported its traditional usage in treatment of diabetes mellitus.

135-139

Authors: Irene Ocran, Daniel Nii Aryee Tagoe

Objective: To assess knowledge and attitude of healthcare workers (HCWs) and patients on healthcare associated infections (HAIs) in the central regional hospital in Ghana. Methods: The purposive random sampling method was used to administer questionnaires over a period of 6 months to HCWs and patients visiting the hospital. Results: A total of 210 patients and 71 HCWs were sampled. One hundred and three (53.8%) patients had some knowledge of HAIs with 52 (28.4%) being informed by a HCW compared with 63 (88.7%) of HCWs who were well informed about HAIs. Ninety-seven (46.2%) responding patient always washed their hands while 65 (31%) and 48 (22.9%) respectively sometimes or never washed their hands within or after leaving the hospital. Out of those who washed their hands, 64 (39.5%) always washed with soap while 46 (28.4%) did sometimes. This positively and significantly correlated (r=0.440, P<0.001) with knowledge on HAIs which was however insignificant in HCWs (r=0.025, P=0.835). As many as 48 (67.6%) of HCWs believed that authorities in the hospital had done little to prevent HAIs with the main reason being that the hospital was unclean. Whereas, 112 (53.3%) of patients considered the hospital clean. Twenty-seven (38%) of HCWs had had confirmed HAIs of which cholera made up 12 (16.9%) while 94 (44.8%) of patients believed they had had unconfirmed HAIs. Conclusions: Although knowledge on HAIs is adequate, low compliance on preventive techniques resulting in high HAIs indicates attitudinal change is the best means of prevention

150-153

Authors: Tyagita Hartady, Mohd Zamri Saad, Siti Khairani Bejo, Mohd Shahrom Salisi

Clinical human brucellosis is quite rare in Malaysia although seroconverters are relatively more. This report describes a case of clinical human brucellosis in Malaysia. This case involved a 29-year-old research assistant in a veterinary microbiology laboratory. She complained of intermittent fever, anorexia, profuse sweating, malaise, headache, normotensive (110/60 mm Hg), muscle pain, and arthralgia for 3 d. Blood tests against dengue and malaria were negative thus she was prescribed vitamin C, paracetamol and cough syrup for common flu. The complaints, however, persisted on and off for the next 1 month. She eventually developed anemia and hypotension (90/50 mm Hg) and started to show reduced body weight. Abdominal palpations revealed hepatomegaly and splenomegaly with pain. Thus, brucellosis was suspected before the Rose-Bengal plate test was performed, which revealed the presence of high level of antibody against Brucella. The same test was repeated after 14 d and the results confirmed the presence of high antibody level against Brucella. Following serum agglutination test, a diagnosis of brucellosis was made and she was eventually prescribed rifampicine p.o. once a day combined with doxycycline p.o. twice a day for 6 consecutive weeks before she made a full recovery.

159-165

Authors: Ijeoma Emeka-Nwabunnia, Bartholomew Okey Ibeh, Tochukwu Ekwutosi Ogbulie

Objective: To investigate the prevalence and sexual behavioural dynamics of HIV infection in students of institutions of higher education (IHEs) as a guide to the design of a tailor-made HIV intervention programmes. Methods: A total of 9 709 sexually matured students from five IHEs in Southeast Nigeria aged 19-24 years were recruited to obtain representative data from the institutionalised student population. HIV status was confirmed using enzyme based immuno-assay technique. Demographic and behavioural information were obtained through a structured questionnaire. Association of HIV infection with behavioural risk factors was done using multiple logistics regression model. Results: IHEs in Southeast Nigeria have a higher HIV prevalence of 3.69% against the national projected rate of 2012. The age-specific prevalence among male students (2.91%) is nonsignificantly (P>0.1) lower than that of females (4.31%). Female students had higher rate of infection, multiple sexual partner, transactional and forced sex, unusual genital discharge and low condom use when compared with their male counterparts. These risk factors were associated with increased HIV seropositivity. HIV prevalence and sexual risky behaviour were high among students of IHEs when compared with previous estimates of their non-institutionalised age brackets. Unprotected sexual activity have a 4.2 times higher chances of infecting the partner with HIV. Conclusions: The data showed a higher prevalence of HIV infection in students of IHEs in comparison with non-institutionalised persons of the same age bracket. Specifically, it could be inferred that appropriate HIV intervention measures was absent with higher incidence of the infection and risky behaviour found in female students. Therefore, a prioritised tailor-made policy for HIV control for students of IHEs should be considered.

513-518

Authors: Deepthi Rapaka, Veera Raghavulu Bitra, Jayaram Reddy Medapati, Annapurna Akula

Activation of the neuron induces transient fluctuations in [Ca 2+ ]i. This transient rise in [Ca 2+ ]i is dependent on calcium entry via calcium channels and release of calcium from intracellular stores, finally resulting in increase in calcium levels, which activates calcium regulatory proteins to restore the resting calcium levels by binding to the calcium-binding proteins, sequestration into the endoplasmic reticulum and the mitochondria, and finally extrusion of calcium spike potential from the cell by adenosine triphosphate-driven Ca 2+ pumps and the Na+ /Ca 2+ exchanger. Improper regulation of calcium signaling, sequentially, likely contributes to synaptic dysfunction and excitotoxic and/or apoptotic death of the vulnerable neuronal populations. The cognitive decline associated with normal aging is not only due to neuronal loss, but is fairly the result of synaptic connectivity. Many evidences support that Ca 2+ dyshomeostasis is implicated in normal brain aging. Thus the chief factor associated with Alzheimer’s disease was found to be increase in the levels of free intracellular calcium, demonstrating that the excessive levels might lead to cell death, which provides a key target for the calcium channel blockers might be used as the neuroprotective agents in Alzheimer’s disease.

527

Authors: Viroj Wiwanitkit

No

529

Authors: Sora Yasri, Viroj Wiwanitkit

No

535-539

Authors: Salehi Ghodratollah, Fata Abdolmajid, Mohaghegh Mohammad Ali, Mousavi Bazzaz Sayyed Mojtaba, Rafatpanah Hushang, Movahedi Abdolghayom

Objective: To identify Leishmania species in patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis in the city of Taybad in Razavi Khorasan Province from April 2012 to March 2013. Methods: Among 52 persons who referred to Health Center of Taybad with suspected skin lesions, stained slide smears of 35 patients showed positive result for Leishmania. Also polymerase chain reaction assay performed using specific kDNA primers. Data of patients were analyzed with SPSS. Results: Of 35 positive smears for Leishmania, 21 (60%) belonged to males and 14 (40%) belonged to females. Polymerase chain reaction bands were observed in all 35 samples of which 31 (88.6%) samples showed Leishmania tropica and 4 (11.4%) showed Leishmania major. The highest infected age group was 11-20 years old. Conclusions: Both anthroponotic cutaneous leishmaniasis and zoonotic cutaneous leishmaniasis are present in Taybad. Leishmania tropica is the dominant causative species for anthroponotic cutaneous leishmaniasis. Further study is recommended to discover probable reservoir and vector for Leishmania major in Taybad.

545-548

Authors: Zohreh Babaloo, Ahad Bazmani, Hamid Ahmadi, Safar Sedighi

Objective: To examine the IL-22 gene polymorphism in visceral leishmaniasis (VL) patients in comparison to healthy people as the control group. Methods: The blood samples were collected from 236 people, among them 74 were patients with a history and clinical symptoms of leishmaniasis and 162 were healthy with no signs of infection and all of them were residents in endemic area of VL in East Azerbaijan Province. DNA extraction was performed by using salting out method and amplification refractory mutation system-polymerase chain reaction was used for detecting the polymorphism of IL-22 promoter (rs2227473A/G). Results: In patients group, 9 (12.16%) individuals showed A/A genotype and 29 (39.18%) showed G/ G genotype. The heterozygote form (A/G) was 36 (48.64%) among this group. In the control group, the proportions of genotypes were 8.02%, 46.09% and 45.06%, respectively. Conclusions: According to our results, there was no significant association between VL and polymorphism of IL-22 gene promoter (rs2227473A/G).

556-562

Authors: Umer Qadir

Objective: To evaluate the larvicidal and adulticidal activity of various extracts of Anamirta cocculus (A. cocculus) (Linn.) seeds against dengue vector Aedes aegypti (Ae. aegypti). Methods: The endosperms were removed from the seeds of A. cocculus and were extracted with petroleum ether, benzene, chloroform, acetone and aqueous solvents by using Soxhlet apparatus for organic solvents and cold extraction procedure for aqueous solvent. Extracts were evaluated further for the determination of 24 h LC50, LC90 and LC99 values by probit analysis using SPSS 16 package. Results: All the tested seed extracts of A. cocculus showed larvicidal and adulticidal effects after 24 h of exposure against Ae. aegypti. Petroleum ether extract was the most potential extract with LC50, LC90, LC99 values of 56.731, 87.908, 127.474 and 140.161, 178.285, 214.713 mg/L, respectively against larvae and adults of Ae. aegypti. The second effective mosquitocidal extract was aqueous extract with LC50 values of 57.726 mg/L and 141.930 mg/L against larvae and adult mosquitoes respectively followed by benzene, chloroform and acetone extracts. Conclusions: Present study reveals that A. cocculus has considerable potentiality for dengue vector control. This potency could be exploited for the development of safer and effective botanical mosquitocidal/insecticidal tool for the management of Ae. aegypti.

569

Authors: Beuy Joob, Viroj Wiwanitkit

No

571-572

Authors: Gunjan Desai, Suhani Gupta, Shadan Ali, Lalit Aggarwal, Shaji Thomas

Dengue viral infections have become one of major emerging infectious diseases in the tropics. Acute abdomen occurring in dengue viral infection is not uncommon. The spectrums of acute surgical emergencies which raise suspicion of an abdominal catastrophe in patients presenting with dengue fever include acute pancreatitis, acute acalculous cholecystitis, non-specific peritonitis and very rarely acute appendicitis. The presence of low white cell count and platelet count can raise suspicion of a diagnosis of dengue in a patient presenting with acute abdominal pain, during a dengue epidemic. We herein report three patients with dengue fever who had appendicular perforation during the course of their viral fever.

578-582

Authors: Raja Venkatesan, John Ravindran, Alex Eapen, John William

Objective: To investigate insecticidal and growth regulating activity of crude leaf extracts of Cassia occidentalis L. (Caesalpinaceae) against the urban malaria vector, Anopheles stephensi Liston. (Diptera: Culicidae). Methods: Larvicidal activity was studied against third instar larvae for 24 h at concentrations of 62.5, 125.0, 250.0, 500.0, 1 000.0, 2 000.0, 4 000.0 and 8 000.0 mg/L. The effect on development and growth of immature mosquitoes was studied at concentrations of 125.0, 250.0 and 500.0 mg/L and was assessed by growth index. Adulticidal activity on topical application was studied on test dosages of 0.01, 0.05, 0.10, 0.25 and 0.50 µg per newly emerged unfed adult female mosquito. Results: Larvicidal activity was poor, not proportional to concentration and LC50 values were above the acceptable dose of 10 mg/L. Potential growth regulating activity was observed and the growth index was 277.5, 111.0 and 27.5 times less than control, respectively. Average larval pupal transformation was 5.8, 4.3 and 96.0 times greater than pupal adult transformation in hexane, 5.0, 4.3 and 48.4 in ethyl acetate, and 4.8, 4.2 and 10.2 in methanol extract, respectively. Adulticidal activity was the highest in ethyl acetate, followed by hexane and methanol extract with LD50 values of 0.23, 0.32 and 0.64 µg/female mosquito, respectively. Conclusions: The crude leaf extracts of Cassia occidentalis studied showed poor larvicidal, potential growth regulating and a moderate level of adulticidal activity.

590-594

Authors: Emmanuel Olufemi Akanni, Olusegun Adelowo Adefioye, Rachel Adekemi Akanni, Sunday Samuel Taiwo

Objective: To estimate the relative contribution of causes of anaemia in the rural communities and evaluate the association between parasitic infections and anaemia. Methods: A total of 292 blood and stool samples of aged 1-15 years school children were collected and analyzed using direct smear saline preparation and concentration methods for examination of ova of parasites in the stool samples with thick and thin blood films stained using Giemsa and Leishman stains as described by World Health Organization. Serum was estimated using ELISA test kit by Syntron Bioresearch, Inc., USA. Results: The overall prevalence rate of parasitic infection was 66.4% with four species of intestinal helminth identified. Ascaris lubricoides (50.0%) was the most common followed by hookworm (8.9%), Trichuris trichiura (6.2%) and Schistosoma mansoni (1.4%). The mean haemoglobin level of plasmodium positive school children without intestinal helminth infection (10.8 g/dL) was slightly higher than those with intestinal helminth (10.0 g/dL). The mean serum ferritin of plasmodium positive without intestinal helminth (23.7 g/L) was also higher than those with helminth (22.5 g/ L) and the differences were not statistically significant (P>0.05). Age and gender also made no significant differences in the distribution of the infections. However, there was a significant effect on weight and height by intestinal helminth infections (P<0.05). Conclusions: It is recommended that the public be adequately health educated on the epidemiology of intestinal helminth infection. A periodic mass treatment of school children with iron supplementation is advocated.

599-601

Authors: Seyed Ahmad Karamati, Hassan Hassanzadazar, Mahmoud Bahmani, Mahmoud Rafieian-Kopaei

No

605-615

Authors: Keshab Deuba, Biwesh Ojha, Rachana Shrestha, Anna Mia Ekström, Gaetano Marrone, Naresh Pratap KC, Deepak Kumar Karki

Objective: To discuss the basic standards for HIV related integrated biological and behavioural surveillance (IBBS) survey implementation, specific challenges of survey management, and to propose brief practical guidelines for management of IBBS surveys in resource limited setting. Methods: Two methods were used to address our study objectives: (a) a narrative review of the literature and (b) our experience as participant observer when working on IBBS survey management between July 2012 and January 2013 in Nepal. Results: In Nepal, IBBS surveys are conducted among key populations at higher risk of HIV such as people who inject drugs, men who have sex with men, female sex workers, seasonal male labour migrants and truckers (proxy for clients of female sex workers). The involvement of different institutions, people, and procedures makes IBBS survey management-including planning, implementation, sharing of findings and possible uses of survey findings-complicated to perform. In addition, basic survey methods and techniques including respondent driven sampling and two stage cluster sampling, are sometimes not properly performed in practice. Conclusions: This study showed that field implementation of some standards methods such as respondent driven sampling and cluster sampling for HIV related estimate or trends used for IBBS survey could be improved. This paper described lessons learnt and may be used as a guiding reference to improve and evaluate IBBS surveys in resource-poor settings also outside of Nepal.

617-620

Authors: Kazem Baesi, Samaneh Moallemi, Mehrdad Ravanshad

Objective: To identify the dominant subtype among the HIV-1 strains circulation in Iran. Methods: In this cross sectional study 100 HIV positive patients participated. HIV-1 RNA was extracted from plasma. RT nested-PCR was performed and the final products were sequenced and phylogenetically analyzed; reference sequences were downloaded from Los Alamos, aligned with Iranian pol sequences in the study and analyzed by neighbor-joining method. Results: The results of the phylogenetic analysis showed that HIV-1 subtype CRF-35AD was the dominant subtype among HIV-1 infected patients in Iran; this analysis also suggested a new circulating recombinant form that had not previously been identified in Iran: CRF-29BF. Conclusions: The impact of HIV diversity on pathogenesis, transmission and clinical management have been discussed in different studies; therefore, analyses of HIV genetic diversity is required to design effective antiretroviral strategies for different HIV subtypes.

624-630

Authors: Chandrabhan Seniya, Shilpi Shrivastava, Sanjay Kumar Singh, Ghulam Jilani Khan

Objective: To find new bioactive molecules for the treatment of swine flu. Methods: The present study is an attempt to elucidate inhibition potential of andrographolide and its derivatives along with an associated binding mechanism through virtual screening and molecular docking simulation studies. Results: Our findings revealed structural conformation changes in 150 loop, secondary sialic acid binding site residues of ACZ97474 {Neuraminidase (A/Blore/NIV236/2009(H1N1)}. Andrographolide have been identified as the highest binging energy of -10.88 Kcal/mol, 3 hydrogen bond interactions (Arg152, Lys150, and Gly197), total intermolecular energy of -12.07 Kcal/mol with bioactivity value (Ki) of 10.59 nmol/L, while the Food and Drug Admistraton approved drug Oseltamivir and Zanamivir have shown 2 and 4 hydrogen bond interactions with binding energies of -6.28 Kcal/mol and -7.73Kcal/mol, respectively, which is higher than andrographolide. The guanidine group of Arg152 has binding affinities to the hydrophilic nature of the inhibitors (-OH and =O groups), as identified by docking of andrographolide (CID: 5318517) on neuraminidase. Conclusions: Hence, andrographolide has the potential to inhibit neuraminidase activity of H1N1 and may be used as an alternative medicinal therapy for swine flu positive patient. With potent antiviral activity and a potentially new mechanism of action, andrographolide may warrant further evaluation as a possible therapy for influenza.

635-640

Authors: Manjunath Dammalli, Vivek Chandramohan, Mahantesh Iranna Biradar, Navya Nagaraju, Bhavya Somalapura Gangadharappa

Objective: To identify alternative drug for the treatment of pandemic disease caused by influenza virus. Methods: The structure based drug design approach was employed. New sequence was employed to build the N1 simulation structure by homology modeling which was further checked for high reliability by verify score and Ramachandran plot. Evaluation of drug likeness and absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, toxicity showed that the ligands satisfy all the properties to be used as a drug. Docking studies were performed using LeadIT and docking scores indicated good binding energy values towards N1. Results: Four candidates were screened and suggested as potent target candidates from the docking studies. The screened compounds from Stemonaceae family illustrated better activity compared to the drugs which are already present in the market. Conclusions: The results may help to find the alternative drug to solve the drug-resistant problem and stimulate designing more effective drugs against 2009-H1N1 influenza pandemic, yet pharmacological studies have to confirm it.

642-643

Authors: Viroj Wiwanitkit

Emerging infection is usually an important public health concern. Within the past decade, there are many new emerging infectious diseases. An important concern is on the pandemic of those new emerging infections. The cross species infection from animal to human, zoonosis, is usually problematic and hard to manage. The well-known situations are on new emerging atypical influenza infections. In this brief article, the author discuss on three important cross species emerging influenza, H5N1 bird flu, H1N1 swine flu and H7N9 bird flu. The basic details of those new influenza's genetic aberration and the concept for surveillance and prediction of new mutation that result in the new cross species emerging zoonosis are also mentioned in this article.

648-652

Authors: Sangamithra Neelakantan, Amita Jain, Pooja Singh, Shantanu Prakash, Pratima Dixit, Rajkumar Kalyan, Ravindra Kumar Garg, Rashmi Kumar, Mastan Singh

Objective: To compare the performance of traditional and newer diagnostic methods for diagnosis of tuberculous meningitis (TBM) along with detection of drug resistant TBM. Methods: Single cerebrospinal fluids sample from 281 suspected TBM patients was processed during August 2011 to July 2012 for acid fast bacilli (AFB) examination by Ziehl-Neelsen and auramine staining methods, AFB culture on Lowenstein-Jensen culture media, by microscope observation of drug susceptibility testing assay, and nucleic acid amplification tests by inhouse conventional PCR and in-house real time PCR targeting IS6110 insertion sequence. All the isolates were subjected to drug susceptibility testing for isoniazid, rifampicin, ethambutol and streptomycin by 1% proportion method. Results: The percentage positivity by AFB smear examination and culture on Lowenstein-Jensen media was 21% (59/281), 11.4% (32/281) respectively. The detection rate by conventional PCR was 33.1% (93/281). The real time PCR showed positivity rate of 44.8% (126/281). The extra detection by real time PCR was 11.7%. Only one isolate was multiple drug resistant and 22 (68.8%) were pan-susceptible. Remaining eight isolates showed either mono/poly drug resistant to first line antitubercular drugs. Conclusions: Real time PCR is a more sensitive and rapid method if it is appropriately adopted in clinical practice for diagnosis of TBM. Prevalence of multiple drug resistance Mycobacterium tuberculosis causing TBM is low.

656-658

Authors: Vania Giacomet, Claudia Maria Bonardi, Laura Paradiso, Sonia Coletto, Alessandra Vigano, Valentina Fabiano, Gian Vincenzo Zuccotti

Incidence of tuberculosis is on the rise, mainly due to an increase of AIDS, shifting populations and modification of bacillus Calmette-Guerin immunization programs. Tuberculosis of the larynx is not as rare as generally reported. We described a case of active pulmonary tuberculosis with laryngeal involvement in an immunocompetent pediatric host, presenting with night sweats, chest pain, low grade fever and dysphonia. Patient was managed with anti-tubercular treatment and the recovery was successful, with the complete regression of lesions and symptoms.

660-663

Authors: Asli Tanrivermis Sayit, Pinar Hediye Gunbey, Kerim Aslan

Hydatid disease is the most common parasitic infection in the world, and is caused by the parasite Echinococcus granulosus. The most common site of this disease is the liver (75%), followed by the lungs, kidney, bones, and brain. Multiple abdominal organ and peritoneal involvement can also be seen in some cases. The dissemination of hydatid cyst disease can develop spontaneously or secondary to trauma or surgery. Here, we present the case of a 69-year-old man with multiple cyst hydatidosis, who underwent surgery for acute appendicitis approximately 20 years previously. Computed tomography of the abdomen shows the multiple active and inactive cystic lesions in the liver, spleen, right kidney, and mesentery. This patient required surgery several times, as well as medical treatment, after the rupture of a mesenteric hydatid cyst during the appendectomy. Combined anthelmintic treatment was recommended to the patient who refused further surgical treatment.

666-673

Authors: Vijay Kumar Agarwal, Gangireddy Krishna Mohan Reddy, Malla Rama Krishna, Garalapati Ramareddy, Prusti Saroj, Venkata Chandra Sekher Srinivasarao Bandaru

Objective: To document the clinical and laboratory findings of scrub typhus infection and to determine the prognostic factors of the disease. Methods: Retrospective data were collected from 96 patients with scrub typhus infection, from January 2012 to December 2013, at Yashoda hospital, Hyderabad. Prognostic factors for severe scrub typhus were analyzed by a multivariate analysis. Results: Out of 96 patients, men were 47 (48.9%) and median age was 39 years. Patients with low socioeconomic status were 53 (55.3%). Among the 96 patients 46 (47.9%) had severe scrub typhus, 50 (52.1%) had mild severe scrub typhus. Two patients (2%) died. Symptoms of cough (P=0.001), presence of eschar (P<0.001), Glasgow coma scale (GCS) below 12 (0.04), hepatomegaly (P=0.0001), splenomegaly (P=0.000 1), and meningoencephalitis (P=0.01), were significantly associated with severe scrub typhus. Multivariate analysis showed presence of eschar (odds 2.5; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.1-8.5), hepatomegaly (odds 1.9; 95% CI 1.1-3.8), meningoencephalitis (odds 4.8; 95% CI 1.1-21.8), GCS<12 (odds 1.8; 95% CI 0.5-2.4) and cough (odds 1.5; 95% CI 0.7-3.5) to be significantly associated with severe scrub typhus. Conclusions: In our study, eschar, hepatomegaly, meningoencephalitis, poor GCS and cough were significantly associated with severe scrub typhus.

679-683

Authors: Hamid Kassiri, Ali Kasiri, Mansour Karimi, Elnaz Kasiri, Masoud Lotfi

Objective: To determine the epidemiologic and clinical features of tick borne relapsing fever in Kurdistan Province during 2000-2006. Methods: In this cross-sectional clinic-based study, target group was all population of Kurdistan Province. In order to screen patients based on national protocol we diagnosed cases based on clinical symptoms together with the presence of Borrelia in blood smears that are stained with Wright-Geimsa. Positive cases after identifying were treated. Also we completed a questionnaire for all patients. The data were analysed by SPSS for getting descriptive indicators (relative and absolute frequency tables) . Results: The numbers of tick borne relapsing fever cases recorded during 2000 to 2006 were as follows: 14, 8, 17, 36, 22, 10 and 31, respectively. A total of 138 patients (50.8% males, 49.2% females) were studied. The most prevalent clinical manifestations were fever (100%), chills (92.7%) and headache (76.1%). Laboratory tests performed on patients showed the presence of Borrelia persica in blood smears. Most of the cases (42%) were in the age group 10-19 years old and 86.2% of them were under 30 years old. Nearly 92% of the patients were resident of the villages. About 37.7% and 25.4% of cases were students and housewives, respectively. Approximately 66% of cases were observed in summer. In 70% of cases, the buildings that they lived in were very old. Cattle or sheep were found in the homes of 89.1% of patients. Conclusions: Due to the relatively high infection rate and economic consequences of this disease on the person and the community, we should take measures to prevent its prevalence by carrying out educational programs.

687-692

Authors: Mahmoud Bahmani, Hannaneh Golshahi, Kourosh Saki, Mahmoud Rafieian-Kopaei, Bahram Delfan, Tahereh Mohammadi

Diabetes mellitus is one of the most common and complex problems of modern societies which has caused many economic and social problems. Because diabetes has no definite treatment, the use of traditional medicine seems to be an appropriate solution to control and manage it. Studies revealed that Vaccinium Arctostaphylos L., Securigera securidaca L., Gymnema sylvestre L., Atriplex halimus L., Camellia sinensis L., Ginkgo biloba L., Mamordica charantia L., Citrullus colocynthis (L.) Schrad., Allium cepa L., Allium sativum L., Silybum marianum (L.), Gaertn and Trigonella foenum graecum L. are effective against diabetes. Flavonoids, quercin, metformin, quinolizidine, anthocyanin, catechin and flavone, phenylpropanoids, lipoic acid and coumarin metabolites were introduced major impact on diabetes. With regard to the study of plants and their metabolites and the mechanisms of their influence, it is clear that these plants have the potential to reduce blood sugar and diabetes and be considered as candidates for preparing new drugs. Combination of plants extracts or their components may also have synergistic effects to better act on diabetes.

698-704

Authors: Mohammad Aftab Hossain, Mahbub Mostofa, Mohammad Abdul Awal, Emdadul Haque Chowdhury, Mahmudul Hasan Sikder

Objective: To investigate the effect of aqueous extract of Momordica charantia (karela) (M. charantia) fruits on blood glucose level, pancreatic weight changes and histopathology of pancreatic changes in the streptozotocin (STZ) induced diabetic rats. Methods: Thirty-six albino rats were used in the experiment; diabetes mellitus was induced in 30 adult albino rats, using intraperitoneal injection of 55 mg/kg STZ. Six non diabetic rats remained as control (T1). The diabetic rats were randomly assigned into five equal groups: diabetic control (T2) without any treatment, groups T3, T4, T5 and T6 were treated with aqueous extract of karela fruits daily at a doses of 250, 500 and 750 mg/kg and glibenclamide (5 mg/kg) up to 90 d, respectively. At Day 90, all rats were sacrificed, the pancreases of the rats were excised and processed. Results: The results of this study indicate that aqueous extract of M. charantia fruits was able to reduce blood glucose level significantly compared with the diabetic control group (P<0.01). Histopathologically, STZ resulted severe necrotic changes in pancreatic islets. Tissues sections of pancreas in the treated groups showed regeneration of β cells and increased size of pancreatic islets. Conclusions: The present study suggests that oral feeding of M. charantia fruit juice has a significant anti-hyperglycemic effect and may have a role in the regeneration of the β cells in STZ diabetic rats.

712-716

Authors: Muluneh Ademe, Zeleke Mekonnen

Objective: To determine the level of bacterial contamination of reused insulin syringes among diabetic patients. Methods: A facility based cross sectional study was conducted among diabetic patients. Data on socio-demographic variables, history of injection syringe reuse, and frequency of reuse of syringes were collected using predesigned questionnaire. Finally, the samples from the syringes were cultured according to standard microbiological techniques. Results: Eighteen diabetic patients at Jimma University Hospital participated. A total of 83.3% of participants reused a single injection syringe for >30 consecutive injections, while 16.7%, reused for ≤30 injections. Our results showed 22.2% of syringes were contaminated with methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Conclusions: We conclude reuse of syringes is associated with microbial contamination. The findings that 4/18 syringes being contaminated with bacteria is an alarming situation. A mechanism should be designed for patient’s to get injection syringes with affordable price. If reusing is not avoidable, reducing number of injections per a single syringe and avoiding needle touching with hand or other non-sterile material may be an alternative to reduce the risk of contamination.

720-724

Authors: Eshtiyag Abdalla Abdelkareem, Tan Gim Cheong, Abdalla Hassan Sharief, Lim Boon Huat, Khoo Boon Yin

Objective: To identify the associated proteins or antigens in serum of colorectal cancer patients with and without the chronic Schistosoma mansoni (S. mansoni) infection in Sudan. Methods: The study included 93 patients with colorectal cancer and/or S. mansoni infection. A clinical database of colorectal cancer patients was documented by pathologist and information of S. mansoni infection was collected through stool analysis. Blood samples were collected from the identified patients. Geographical distribution of patients and etiological factors of colorectal cancer and S. mansoni infection were also discussed in this study. The proteins extracted from serum samples of patients using Tri Reagent were electrophoretically separated on sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Specific protein band was then subjected to matrix laser desorption ionisation-time assistance-of-flight mass spectrometry analysis. Results: Stool analysis documented that 40 patients were colorectal cancer patients infected with S. mansoni, 26 patients were diagnosed with colorectal cancer only, and 27 patients were infected with S. mansoni only. Approximately 27% of participating patients with colorectal cancer and S. mansoni infection in this study came from Gezira State. A specific protein band was identified from the serum samples of colorectal cancer patients with S. mansoni infection on the separated protein by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The specific protein band was then analyzed by matrix laser desorption ionisation-time assistance-of-flight mass spectrometry and identified as a clusterin protein. Conclusions: The study showed that the colorectal cancer patients infected with S. mansoni expressed clusterin protein, indicating that clusterin protein may be a potential biomarker to aid in the treatment of colorectal cancer patients infected with S. mansoni in the future.

728-732

Authors: Ebrahim Badparva, Farnaz Kheirandish, Farzad Ebrahimzade

Objective: To study the prevalence of intestinal parasites in Lorestan Province, West of Iran. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 2 838 stool samples in Khorramabad, Lorestan Province in 2013. Samples were examined by the several techniques. Results: The frequency of intestinal parasites was 465 (16.4%) of which 188 (13.5%) samples were for urban areas and 277 (19.2%) for rural areas. Infection in rural areas was significantly higher than urban areas. Out of 465 infected samples, 456 (98%) were contaminated with protozoan parasites and 9 (2%) with helminthes. Infection in people who sometimes used the soap to wash hands was significantly more than those who always used soap (P<0.001). Infection in people with poor economic conditions was significantly more than the two groups with moderate and good economic conditions (P<0.001). Conclusions: Effective reasons for the reducing incidence of intestinal parasites in Lorestan Province could be the development of universities with more students led to increased awareness, improvement of the environment, increase of the ease of access to health care centers, increase of advertising in provincial mass media about health training, increased health culture, and dispose of sanitary waste properly.

739-742

Authors: Mehrzad Saraei, Yosef Ghaderi, Tahereh Mosavi, Mojtaba Shahnazi, Hossein Keshavarz, Saeedeh Shojaee

Objective: To investigate the brain cystogenesis capacity of Tehran strain of Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) that had been isolated from a patient with lymphadenitis in 1973. Methods: A volume of 0.5 mL mice brain suspension containing 20 tissue cysts of Tehran strain of T. gondii was inoculated intraperitoneally to each of 25 male BALB/c mice. The number of brain cysts was counted in unstained squash-smears for 10 mice during weeks 7-9 and for 15 mice during weeks 13-14 post-infection. Nonparametric test of Mann-Whitney was used to demonstrate means differences. Results: There was a significant difference in the means for the number of brain cysts between weeks 7-9 (228.3±144.8) and weeks 13-14 (1 239.8±429.3) post-infection (P<0.05). The minimum and the maximum of cysts were 70 and 1 531 during weeks 7-9 post-infection, and 12 and 5 170 during weeks 13-14 post-infection, respectively. The mean number of brain cysts in the right cerebral hemisphere was insignificantly higher than that of the left cerebral hemisphere. Furthermore, the number of cysts counted in the right or the left hemispheres was significantly higher than those enumerated for cerebellum+brain stem altogether. Conclusions: It is concluded that the brain cystogenesis capacity of T. gondii, Tehran strain shows enormous variation in mice regarding the duration of infection. In addition, the cystogenesis observed in cerebellum+brain stem is lower than the right and left cerebral hemispheres.

748-753

Authors: Ahana Maitra, Chhotey Lal Yadav, Raj Kumari Sanjukta

Objective: To establish the epidemiology of paramphistomosis in Hills and Tarai region of Uttarakhand state, India for the period from 2005 to 2007. Methods: For this purpose, 11 278 faecal samples (4 391 cattle, 2 197 buffaloes, 1 760 sheep and 2 930 goats) were collected from Hills and Tarai region of Uttarakhand for 2 years. Faecal samples were examined for the presence of paramphistomes eggs, both qualitatively and quantitatively. The data were recorded on the basis of months and prevailing seasons of the state. Results: The overall prevalence of paramphistomosis during this period in domestic ruminants was 9.69%. Also, bovines (cattle-12.4% and buffaloes-12.3%) were found to be more prone to infection as compared to small ruminants (sheep-7.4% and goats-4.9%). The peak infection was observed in the monsoon and post monsoon season (17.42%). This trend was similar for both Tarai (15%) and Hills (6.7%). The overall prevalence in Tarai was found to be 12.3% and in Hills it was 3.9%. In both Tarai and Hills region, maximum prevalence was seen in cattle with infectivity of 14% and 7.2% respectively and minimum prevalence in goat with infectivity of 8.7% and 2% respectively. Maximum mean eggs per gram was recorded in buffalo (22.05 in winter) followed by cattle (19.7 in summer), goat and sheep (18.7 and 16.33 in monsoon and post monsoon). The most common species of paramphistomes recorded were Paramphistomum cervi, Gastrothylax crumenifer and Fischoederius elongatus. Conclusions: The analysis of the data obtained revealed that prevalence was more in the Tarai region as compared to the Hills region and this pattern remained same after quantitative analysis of the samples.

758-761

Authors: Mohammad Mehdi Darvishi, Mohammad RezaYoussefi, Emad Changizi, Mohammad Taghi Rahimi

Objective: To study the morphometric characteristics and biology of different developmental stages of Dermacentor marginatus (D. marginatus) under laboratory conditions. Methods: D. marginatus ticks were collected from sheep in Shahmirzad and suburb. The identification of D. marginatus was carried out by means of stereoscope and light microscope according to available systematic keys. Nourished female ticks weight and their length of body, capitulum and mouth parts were measured. After laying eggs and breeding, the weight of all developmental larva stages and the length of mouth parts were measured and recorded carefully. Results: The mean of egg dimension was 566 µm×436 µm. The length of unfed larva body, hypostome and capitulum were (690±10) µm, (75±5) µm and (172±7) µm, respectively. The weight of egg was calculated 0.05 mg and the weight of unfed larva, nymph and female were 0.02 mg, 0.14 mg and 4.66 mg, respectively; whereas the weight of replete larva, nymph and female were recorded 0.5 mg, 11 mg and 380 mg, respectively. Moreover, the length of unfed nymph, hypostome and capitulum were recorded (1300±50) µm, (135±5) µm and (280±10) µm, respectively. The longest length and width in replete female were observed to be 12.6 mm×8.4 mm. Conclusions: The current investigation presents new information on biology of D. marginatus under standard laboratory conditions. Besides, investigation on ticks under laboratory conditions increases our knowledge regarding their biology and potential risks.

764-769

Authors: Mahmoud Bahmani, Mahmoud Rafieian-Kopaei, Seyed Ahmad Karamati, Fariba Bahmani, Farzaneh Bahmani, Ehsan Bahmani, Jafar Asadzadeh

Objective: To identify antiparasitic medicinal plants used by people in southern regions of Ilam province in Iran. Methods: This study was carried out using questionnaire and interview method between February 2012 and April 2013 and also by means of public resources. Along with distributing questionnaires herbarium specimens of each plant were collected and then their genus and species were determined in the Natural Resources Research Center of Ilam province. Results: A total of 19 medicinal plants used as antiparasitic plants belonged to 14 families were identified in southern regions of Ilam province. Majority of antiparasite herbs were related to Compositeae (11%), Rosaceae (11%), Solanaceae (11%), Liliaceae (11%), and Asteraceae (11%) families. Aerial parts with 28% were the most plant organs used for the treatment of parasitic diseases. Results of this study showed that infusion with 83% is the most popular form of herbal medications in southern regions of Ilam province. Conclusions: The report of medicinal plants belonged to northern regions of this province may provide necessary condition for researchers to identify effective substances and to study the clinical effects claimed for these plants and their effective substances on different parasitic diseases while traditional effects of these plants are documented.

780-785

Authors: Sri Rahayu Lestari, Muhammad Sasmito Djati, Ahmad Rudijanto, Fatchiyah Fatchiyah

Objective: To determine body weight gain, expression of Igf-1 and Igf-1 receptor on obese rat model treated with rambutan peel extract (RPE) as a physiological response. Methods: Normal and obese rat feed with normal and high calorie diet around 12 weeks and continued to treat with ellagic acid, RPE 15, 30 and 60 mg/kg body weight respectively. Physiological responses observed were weight gain and expression of Igf-1 with its receptor. Body weight of rat was weighed once per week. Expression of Igf-1 and igf-1R observed with fluorescence immunohistochemistry. The intensity of Igf-1 and Igf-1R expression was analysis using FSX-BSW software. Results: The lowest weight gain was obtained on obese rat model treated with RPE 30 mg/kg body weight. The expression of Igf-1 and Igf-1R were reduced on obese rat model treated with RPE compared with obese rat model of non treatment (P<0.05). The low expression of Igf-1 and Igf-1R was found on obese rat model treated with ellagic acid and RPE 30 mg/kg body weight. Conclusions: The RPE was effecting to the physiological response on obese rat model. The RPE 30 mg/kg body weight inhibited body weight gain and decreased the expression of Igf-1 and Igf- 1R of obese rat model.

790-794

Authors: Mohammad Reza Fakoorziba, Marziae Shahriari-Namadi, Mohammad Djaefar Moemenbellah-Fard, Gholam Reza Hatam, Kourosh Azizi, Masoumeh Amin, Maryam Motevasel

Objective: To identify the cockroach species, their bacterial flora and antibiotics susceptibility patterns of these bacteria in Shiraz. Methods: In the present descriptive study, only two species of cockroaches were recognized. The washing solutions from the digestion systems and surfaces of 156 American and German cockroaches were cultured. The latter was found to be the commonest (89.7%) in all places. Results: Overall, 18 species of bacteria were isolated and identified by standard culture methods. The most frequent bacterium isolated from both species of cockroaches in all places was Pseudomonas (41.7%). The second and third commonest bacteria were Enterobacter (39.7%) and Klebsiella (32.7%), respectively. Conclusions: The antibiogram profiles showed full (100%) resistance of Klebsiella, Citrobacter, Acinetobacter and Proteus to amoxicillin and ampicillin at both hospitals, while Pseudomonas showed resistance (95.7%) to cephalothin. Thus it is concluded that German and American cockroaches carry multidrug resistant bacteria in two hospitals which raises alarm for stricter control measures.

799-802

Authors: Rahele Veys-Behbahani, Mona Sharififard, Navid Dinparast-Djadid, Javad Shamsi, Mohammad Reza Fakoorziba

Objective: To examine Beauveria bassiana (B. bassiana) fungus bioassay against the larval stages of Anopheles stephensi in Iran. Methods: The fungal suspension by the concentrations of 1×109, 5×108, 108, 5×107 and 1× 107 conidia per milliliter have been prepared in different volumes (2, 4 and 6 mL) and each concentration were added to containers containing 25 Anopheles larva instars 1 and 2. The mortality of the dead larvae with abnormal symptoms was recorded as a result of the fungal infection after 24, 48 and 72 h. Results: Comparison between the mean mortality rate of Anopheles stephensi larva at different concentrations of B. bassiana strain Iran 429C at 2, 4 and 6 mL showed that there was no significant relation of the mean mortality rate of larvae at concentrations of 1×109 and 5×108, and after 48 h resulted in 100% mortality rate of the larvae populations. In addition, there is no significant differences in the amounts of lethal times (LT) (LT50 and LT90) as LT90 values calculated at a concentration of 5×108 and in volumes 2, 4 and 6 mL were 1.46, 1.36 and 1.08 d, respectively. Conclusions: B. bassiana strain Iran 429C in 2 mL of 5×108 concentration or the concentration of a 1×109 mL per 100 mL of water is recommended as the optimal concentration for the control of Anopheles larvae. The development of suitable formulations of entomopathogenic fungi may be a promising prospect in the mosquito control programs.

808-812

Authors: uthika Mandal, Marufa Zerin Akhter, Mohammad Shahidul Kabir, Sunjukta Ahsan

Objective: To develop a multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) protocol for the simultaneous detection of Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi (S. Typhi) and Class 1 integron, so as to aid rapid diagnosis of S. Typhi cases and help in the selection of treatment options based on the presence of the Class 1 integron that can carry resistance cassettes to a range of antibiotics. Methods: PCR for amplification of specific regions was done using fliC-d and intl primers and agarose gel electrophoresis was used for resolution of PCR products. Results: The fliC-d primer (S. Typhi specific) amplified a 587 bp region and the intl primer (Class 1 integron specific) amplified two bands approximately 500 and 550 bps. The developed method was specific for S. Typhi and did not amplify any products with Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium ATCC 14028, Salmonella enterica serovar Paratyphi and Escherichia coli O157:H7. Conclusions: The developed multiplex PCR protocol can be used for rapid diagnosis and aid in proper treatment strategies for patients infected with S. Typhi.

818-823

Authors: Nazia Khan, Abida Malik, Meher Rizvi, Kamran Afzal, Zameer Pasha

Objective: To assess epidemiology, trends in etiology and the antimicrobial sensitivity pattern of the pathogens. Methods: Cerebrospinal fluid was collected from 150 patients who were suspected of meningitis and processed according to standard microbiological techniques. Cerebrospinal fluid samples were tested for antigen detection by latex agglutination test (LAT). Antimicrobial sensitivity test was done by Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. Results: Fever, abnormal movements and altered sensorium were the most common presenting features. Etiological agents were identified in 79 (53%) cases. A total of 33 (42%) samples were cultured positive while 59 (75%) were positive by LAT. Pneumococcus followed by Gram-negative organisms were the most common pathogens. Mortality was 28 (19%). The aminoglycosides had the best spectrum of antimicrobial activity. An alarming rise of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (75%) and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (59%) was seen. No highlevel aminoglycoside resistance, AmpC or mannose-binding lectin production was observed. Conclusions: Pneumococcus and Gram-negative pathogens were the most common organisms. High prevalence of drug resistant pathogens is seen. Inclusion of LAT for antigen detection in routine diagnosis adds a valuable adjunct in the rapid and accurate diagnosis of pyogenic meningitis especially in partially treated cases.

830-832

Authors: Nasrin Haghighat-Afshar, Maryam Fakhernia, Hassan Hassanzadazar, Ramin Teymori1, Maryam Bolouki1, Abdolreza Korepaz, Naser Ghazanfarirad, Farzaneh Rahmanpour, Mahmoud Bahmani

Objective: To evaluate the microbial quality of the industrial produced fruit juices in West Azerbaijan Province of Iran. Methods: In this study, 150 samples of produced juices were studied for the presence of acid resistant bacteria, lactic acid bacteria, mold and yeasts using national standard methods of Iran. Results: Obtained results showed that 100% of all fruit juice samples were devoid of any microbes. Conclusions: This study showed that consuming of industrial produced fruit juices are recommended because of their hygienic conditions of production and no existence of microbial contamination. While fresh fruit juices are contaminated with various microorganisms due to unsanitary conditions, therefore, their consuming are not recommended.

836-839

Authors: Jafar Asadzadeh, Ramin Teymori, Naser Ghazanfarirad, Maryam Fakhernia, Nasrin Haghighat-Afshar, Maryam Blouki, Aghakhan Kheiri, Hassan Hassanzadazar, Mahmoud Bahmani

Objective: To investigate fungal contamination of produced wheat flours in West Azarbaijan Province, located in the North West of Iran as wheat flour is one of the most important food and nutrient in the Iranians diet. Methods: This descriptive study was performed during March 2011 to April 2013 in flour mills of West Azerbaijan province. A total of 17 samples of produced wheat flour in Azerbaijan Province of Iran were tested for mold contamination based on Iran National Standard Method No. 2393. Results: Presence of molds in all collected 151 samples from flour factories of Azerbaijan Province were at the limit based on Iranian national standard. Conclusions: The obtained results showed that the process of flour production was hygienic quietly. Bread is staple ingredient of Iranian diet, and strict control on its processing of wheat flour, maintenance and distribution results nonpolluting or reduction of fungal contamination.

845

Authors: Sora Yasri, Viroj Wiwanitkit

No

847-849

Authors: ahmoud Bahmani, Mahmoud Rafieian-Kopaei, Mahyar Jeloudari, Zohre Eftekhari, Bahram Delfan, Arman Zargaran, Shirin Forouzan

No

851-853

Authors: Jayaraman Kogilavaani, Ismail Shatriah, Kandasamy Regunath, Abd Karim Ahmad Helmy

Orbital cellulitis is an emergency situation in children. Rapid diagnosis and appropriate management are mandatory to save both vision and life. In contrast, melioidosis infection causing orbital cellulitis with intracranial infection is a rare situation in children, and requires an aggressive management. Poor response or worsening of clinical condition despite appropriate management of paediatric orbital cellulitis should alert the physician of this devastating infection, especially when it occurs in those living in endemic areas.

860-862

Authors: ugba Sari, Fatih Temocin

Bites from brown recluse spiders (Loxosceles reclusa) result in several clinical manifestations, causing painful, disfiguring necrotic ulcers and, uncommonly, severe systemic effects. We report two cases reports with necrotic arachnidism from Turkey. A 21-year-old man was admitted to our clinic with the complaints of pruritis, redness on his neck. He had a history of spider bite one day ago. A 52-year-old woman had a cellulitis with hemorrhagic lesion and superficial necrosis on her arm and had a history of spider bite one day ago. Based on these clinical and epidemiological findings, a diagnosis of necrotic arachnidism was suspected, and the diagnosis of necrotic arachnidism was confirmed with these typical skin lesions and spiders bites in histories of patients. The outcome of our patients were good after antihistaminic, antibiotic, analgesic and anti-inflammatory treatments. The brown recluse spider is notorious for its necrosisinducing bite. Its venom contains a rare toxin, sphingomyelinase D, which activates the vascular endothelium and initiates a cascade of activation of neutrophils and granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor, resulting in tissue destruction. In many cases, diagnosis of spider bite is very difficult. Therefore, clinical and epidemiological findings, as well as a detailed history, may establish the diagnosis.

867-869

Authors: Baghdad Khiati, Salima Bacha, Saad Aissat Moussa Ahmed

Honey is a traditional remedy, which has a broad range of effects on the wound healing process. This case study is to evaluate the effect of topical application of Algerian honey on cutaneous wound healing in the horse. The wound was first cleaned with saline, and then the honey ointment was applied gently to the wound, using a glove. After 4 days' post-trauma, the honey treatment was started. After 15 days, the wound was further reduced, and treated only once a day. This is the first case to report the use of Algerian honey in wound healing especially in horse.

874-878

Authors: lok Pandey, Deepak Dash, Shailendra Kela, Shubhangi Dwivedi, Prashant Tiwari

Objective: To evaluation of analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties of the fruits of Vernonia anthelmintica (L) Willd. (V. anthelmintica). Method: Hot plate method in mice, acetic acid induced writhing response in mice, tail immersion test and carrageenan-induced paw edema in rats and cotton pellet induced granuloma in rats method were used for screening analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties of the fruit of V. anthelmintica (family: Asteraceae). Results: The result of the study showed that the ethanolic extract of V. anthelmintica (100 and 200 mg/kg body weight, p.o.) fruits possed peripheral and central analgesic activity in animal model. The V. anthelmintica fruits extract showed in vivo anti-inflammatory activity on acute and chronic anti-inflammatory activity models in rats. Conclusions: On the basis of result it can be concluded that saponins, steroids, tannins and flavonoids are the major constituents that are present in the fruits of V. anthelmintica which may be responsible for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity.

885-889

Authors: Iftikhar Ali, Shahzadi Bibi, Hidayat Hussain, Fozia Bano, Sajjad Ali, Sher Wali Khan, Viqar Uddin Ahmad, Ahmed Al-Harrasi

Objective: To evaluate the antioxidant, phytotoxic, antimicrobial, insecticidal, cytotoxic, antiglycative, and xanthine oxidase activities of different extracts of Suaeda heterophylla (S. heterophylla) and Bergenia stracheyi (B. stracheyi). Methods: The extracts of S. heterophylla and B. stracheyi were evaluated for antioxidant, phytotoxic, antimicrobial, insecticidal, cytotoxic, antiglycative, and xanthine oxidase activities using standard experimental methods. Results: The overall antioxidant potential of ethyl acetate extract of S. heterophylla was the strongest, followed by chloroform extract, methanolic extract and n-hexane extract. It is interesting to note that ethyl acetate fraction showed 94.98% inhibition at concentration of 60 µg/mL while standard ascorbic acid showed 98.49% inhibition at same concentration. The crude methanol extracts of S. heterophylla and B. stracheyi showed significant phytotoxic activity at the highest dose. Moreover, methanol extract of B. stracheyi possessed strong activity in xanthine oxidase enzyme inhibition. Conclusions: Antioxidant, phytotoxic, and xanthine oxidase activities of different fractions of S. heterophylla and B. stracheyi clearly demonstrate that these fractions possess great potential for the food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries.

895-901

Authors: Kourosh Saki, Mahmoud Bahmani, Mahmoud Rafieian-Kopaei, Hassan Hassanzadazar, Kamran Dehghan, Fariba Bahmani, Jafar Asadzadeh

Objective: To determine and introduce medicinal plants used in the treatment of psychological disorders in Urmia city of Iran. Methods: Direct observation, interviews and collection of herbarium native medicinal herbs were used in this study. Questionnaires included herbalists’ personal information, native herbs list to include local name of plant, used organ, application methods and therapeutic effect of the plant. Samples that listed in the questionnaires were collected to determine the genus and species. Results: By interviews, 22 medicinal plants of 10 families were determined in Urmia city. Asteraceae family had the most therapeutic effects (32%). Seeds of plants were the most used organs and common application method of plants was decoction (80%). Conclusions: Indigenous knowledge of medicinal plants offers new ideas for modern pharmaceutical science. These study results might be tested experimentally in order to produce new herbal remedies for management of neurological and psychiatric disorders.

906-910

Authors: Mahmoud Bahmani, Seyed Ahmad Karamati, Hassan Hassanzadazar, Shirin Forouzan3, Mahmoud Rafieian-Kopaei, Behzad Kazemi-Ghoshchi, Jafar Asadzadeh, Aghakhan Kheiri, Ehsan Bahmani

Objective: To identify the native medicinal plants used in parasitic diseases treatment in Urmia. Methods: This study was conducted among 35 Urmia herbalists to identify medicinal plants used in parasitic diseases treatment. We used direct observation and interviews with collected herbarium specimens by native herbs commonly in the treatment of parasitic diseases. Questionnaires were included apothecary personal information and native plants list with information includes plant local name, plant parts used, method of their use and traditional therapies. Herbarium samples listed in the questionnaire collected from the area and were sent to agricultural research centers and Urmia University Faculty of Agriculture for genus and species determination. Results: Thirteen medicinal plants from six families for treatment of diabetes in Urmia were obtained from interviews. Most families have anti diabetic effect was included Asteraceae (36%). The most used was boiling (65%). Conclusions: In view of the findings of this study indicate that plants have the potential to be a parasitic infection so it is necessary ingredients of native plants be studied to demonstrate therapeutic effects and provide field work to evaluate the clinical effects of these herbs and ingredients they claim on parasitic diseases.

920-923

Authors: Atikya Farjana, Nagma Zerin, Md. Shahidul Kabir

Objective: To determine antibacterial activity of water, oil and methanol extracts of guava (Psidium guajava), green tea (Camellia sinensis), neem (Azadirachta indica) and marigold (Calendula officinalis) against different species of bacteria, Pseudomonas spp., Vibrio cholerae, Vibrio parahaemolyticus (V. parahaemolyticus), Klebsiella spp., Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp. and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). Methods: Antibacterial activity of plant extracts was measured by agar well diffusion method. Results: Boiled water extracts of guava leaf showed the largest zone of inhibition (22 mm) against V. parahaemolyticus. Water extracts of green tea leaf at boiling and room temperature showed 17.5 mm and 19 mm zone of inhibitions against V. parahaemolyticus and S. aureus, respectively. Boiled water extract of neem leaf showed moderate zone of inhibition against Escherichia coli (10 mm) and Klebsiella spp. (11 mm). Water and oil extracts of marigold leaf at both boiling and room temperature did not show any zone of inhibition against any of the tested microorganisms. Methanol extracts of both guava and green tea leaves showed same zone of inhibition against Pseudomonus spp. (18 mm). Methanol extract of neem leaf showed antibacterial acitivity against Klebsiella spp. (16 mm) and Vibrio cholerae (14 mm) and that of marigold leaf showed antimicrobial activity against S. aureus (18 mm) and Klebsiella spp. (12 mm). Conclusions: The results from the study suggest that the leaves of guava, green tea, neem and marigold show anibacterial activity against different bacterial species. They could be used as alternatives to common antimicrobial agents for treatment of bacterial infections.

928-933

Authors: Md. Rafikul Islam, Mohammad Fazlul Kabir, Rashedul Alam, Rana Dhar, Mohammad Nasiruddin Rana, Md. Ekramul Islam, Mst. Shahnaj Parvin, Md. Aslam Hossain

Objective: To study the sedative, membrane stability, cytotoxic and antioxidant properties of the leaves of Protium serratum extracted using methanol. Methods: Sedative test was performed using hole cross and open field methods at 200 and 400 mg/kg. Membrane stability of red blood cell was used for anti-inflammatory test at different concentrations. Cytotoxic study was performed using brine shrimp lethality test. Total flavonoid contents, total phenol contents and reducing power were used to assess antioxidant properties of the extract. Results: Extract showed better sedative action at lower doses in both experiments. Maximum 73.33% locomotion reduction was found at 200 mg/kg at 120 min and that was 89.29% for diazepam in hole cross test. In membrane stability test, extract and standard drug diclofenac have 35.66% and 91.20% stability, respectively. LC50 value of the extract was 22.91 µg/mL. Total phenol and flavonoid contents were (55.53±14.63) mg gallic acid equivalent per gram of extract and (106.33±7.35) mg of quercetin equivalent per gram of extract, respectively per gram of extract. Significant reducing power was observed as compared to ascorbic acid. Conclusions: Extract possesses good pharmacological properties. Hence, further extensive study is essential to find out possible active constituents for the treatment of anxiety, inflammation or sickle cell disease, cancer and free radical mediated abnormalities.

938-942

Authors: Bahram Delfan, Mahmoud Bahmani, Zohre Eftekhari, Mahyar Jelodari, Kourosh Saki, Tahereh Mohammadi

Objective: To identify medicinal plants in Lorestan Province (west of Iran) in treatment of wound healing and skin lesions. Methods: Questionnaire were made by health volunteers who were trained. The questionnaire about the beliefs and herbal therapy were filled by liaisons trained in the villages. Results: Questionnaire survey showed that 18 medicinal plants from 11 plant families were detected in the province for treating and healing skin lesions. Conclusions: The achieving information in the study reported that bioactive substances in some plants have pharmacologic effects in regulating biological processes which can accelerate healing, reducing inflammation and improving health effects. Suggested ideas in this study should be tested in clinical trials and the effectiveness of their therapeutic effects, their effective recognition and secondary materials in the form of natural medicine must be detected for releasing into the pharmaceutical market.

946-951

Authors: Sahar Salah El Din El Souda, Reda Sayed Mohammed, Mona Mohamed Marzouk, Maha Aly Fahmy, Zeinab Mohamed Hassan, Ayman Ali Farghaly

Objective: To evaluate the safety and the possible antimutagenic effect of the defatted aqueous ethanol extract and polysaccharide extract of Plantago albicans L. areal parts on the genotoxicity of the anticancer drug cyclophosphamide and to investigate the chemical constituents of these extracts. Methods: Two doses of each extract (10 and 15 mg/kg body weight) were administered orally to albino mice 7 d prior to treatment of cyclophosphamide (20 mg/kg body weight, i.p). Chromosomal aberration analysis and micronucleus test were performed. Phytochemical investigation of defatted aqueous ethanol extract was carried out through chromatographic tools, chemical and physical analysis to know the active constituents of these extracts. Results: Groups of mice administered with defatted aqueous ethanol extract and polysaccharide extract prior to cyclophosphamide treatment showed statistically significant reduction in the percentage of chromosomal aberrations and micronuclei in bone marrow cells in a dosedependent manner. Defatted aqueous ethanol extract gave more effective protection in comparison with polysaccharide extract. Phytochemical investigation of defatted aqueous ethanol extract allowed isolation of gallic acid, methylgallate, tri, tetra, penta-galloyl-β- glucopyranoside, kaempferol-3-O-β-sophro pyranoside, quercetin-3-O-β-glucopyranoside-7- O-α-rhamnpyranoside, kaempferol and quercetin, for the first time from this species. Conclusions: The results of the present work demonstrated that Plantago albicans phytoconstituents play a protective role against genotoxicity of the drug cyclophosphamide.

957-962

Authors: Chika Crescence Ogueke, Joachim Uwaleke, Clifford Ifeanyi Owuamanam, Beluonwu Okolue

Objective: To determine the in vitro antimicrobial activities of various solvent extracts of stem bark of Alstonia boonei, a Nigerian traditional medicinal plant against some microorganisms of food and clinical importance. Methods: The antimicrobial activities of crude solvent extracts of stem bark were determined using well in agar diffusion method against Escherichia coli (E. coli), Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella typhi, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Kluyveromyces sp. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration were determined to establish the antimicrobial potential of extracts. Results: The antimicrobial results revealed that ethanol extract produced maximum zone of inhibition (23.73 mm) against E. coli. All the extracts had no inhibitory activity on Salmonella typhi and Pseudomonas aeruginosa at the lowest concentration tested (3.2 mg/mL). MIC was determined at various concentrations and the least MIC (5.8 mg/mL) was produced by the crude ethanol extract on E. coli, while the least minimum bactericidal concentration (20 mg/mL) was also produced by the ethanol extract on E. coli. Ethanol and chloroform extracts had the highest and least inhibitory effects on the isolates, respectively. Conclusions: The present study has revealed that the solvent extracts of Alstonia boonei stem bark possess potent antimicrobial activity that can be harnessed. It may also be a new source of antimicrobial compounds that could be used to combat drug resistance which has become a global challenge.

975-978

Authors: Nazila Ariaee-Nasab, Zahra Vahedi, Fatemeh Vahedi

Objective: To question the inhibitory effect of cinnamon-water extract (CWE) on four human tumor cell lines (AGs, HeLa, MCF-7 and MDA-MB234). Naturally, compounds are an important source for clinical proposes. Cinnamon, a plant-derived spice, is widely used as a food additive and has been attracted many researches in recent years to find its pharmaceutical benefits. Methods: In order to find the answer to this subject, the water extract of cinnamon was prepared and cell proliferation was evaluated using MTT assay. The effect of apoptosis was investigated by DNA fragmentation analysis. Results: The inhibitory effect of CWE on the growth of the cells was significant. DNA fr agmentation was found in cultured AGs and MCF-7 cell lines treated by CWE. Conclusions: This study showed the anti-neoplastic activity of CWE on tumor cell lines.

985-989

Authors: ohammad Amzad Hossain, Tahiya Hilal Ali Al-Abri, Amira Hamood Salim Al-Musalami, Md. Sohail Akhtar, Sadri Said

Objective: To determine and compare the effect on antimicrobial potency of crude stems extract of Adenium obesum (A. obesum) by Soxhlet and maceration extraction methods. Methods: The crude extracts were prepared from the coarse samples of stems with methanol by using Soxhlet and maceration extraction methods. Both the crude extracts from two extraction methods were dissolved in water and successively extracted by different polarities solvents with increasing polarities. In vitro antimicrobial potency of different polarities crude extracts obtained from Soxhlet and maceration methods was determined by agar gel diffusion method against different food borne pathogenic bacterial strains. Results: The results for antimicrobial potency of different crude extracts were almost similar by Soxhlet and maceration and methods. The average range of inhibition potency of different polarities crude extracts was 0%-17% by Soxhlet method and inhibition potency 0%-24% by maceration method. Conclusions: These results obtained from in vitro approach give promising basic information about this plant as well as some potential crude extracts can be used for the treatment of infectious diseases.

998-1001

Authors: Kenneth Maduabuchi Ezealisiji, Samuel Chikwujekwu Ijeomah, Matthias Onyebuchi Agbo

Objective: To determine the anti-ulcer activity of methanol extract of Tetracarpidium conophorum (Mull. Arg.) (METC) nuts in albino Wistar rats. Methods: METC was investigated in pylorus ligation and ethanol induced models in experimental animals. Parameters such as gastric volume, pH, total and free acidity, and ulcer index were used as indicator for antiulcerogenic activity in both models. METC at doses of 250 and 500 mg/kg orally was used to determine whether the extract could produce significant protection of the gastric lesions by pylorus ligation and ethanol. Results: The extract at dose levels of 250 and 500 mg/kg exhibited significant (P<0.05) decrease in the gastric volume, total and free acidity while the pH of gastric juice was significantly (P<0.05) increased in both models. Conclusions: The result showed that METC possesses anti-ulcer as well as cytoprotective properties which could be attributed to the presence of secondary metabolites.

1014-1018

Authors: Faramarz Fekri Yazdi, Gholamreza Ghalamkari, Majid Toghyani, Mehrdad Modaresi, Nasir Landy

Objective: To evaluate the effect of Tribulus terrestris L. (puncture vine) as an antibiotic growth promoter substitute on growth performance, carcass traits, and immune responses in broiler chickens. Methods: A total of 192 one-day-old as hatched broiler chicks (Ross 308) were randomly allocated to four treatment groups, with 4 replicates of 12 birds. The following treatments were applied: basal diet (control), control+4.5 mg flavophospholipol/kg, or control+1 or 5 g puncture vine powder/kg. Vaccines against newcastle, influenza disease, and sheep red blood cells were administered to immunological stimuli. Results: Daily feed intake, internal organ weights, and carcass traits were not influenced by the dietary treatments except for carcass yield that increased in broilers fed diet supplemented with 1 g puncture vine powder/kg at 42nd day. Broilers receiving 1 g puncture vine/kg tended to have a lower feed conversion ratio compared to other groups during starter, finisher and entire experimental period (P>0.05). Broilers receiving 1 or 5 g puncture vine/kg had higher antibody titer against Newcastle disease virus compared to other groups (P<0.05). Broilers receiving 1 g puncture vine/kg had the highest antibody titer against avian influenza virus and sheep red blood cells at 28 and 31 days of age, respectively (P<0.05). Conclusions: In conclusion, the overall results of the current study showed that puncture vine powder seems to have the potential to positively influence growth performance and immune responses of broiler chicks.

8-13

Authors: Abdelbasit Mohamed Ibrahim, Mutasim Elhadi Ibrahim

Objective: To determine the prevalence of Schistosoma mansoni (S. mansoni) infection among schoolchildren and to evaluate the sero-diagnostic techniques of indirect-haemagglutination (IHA) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in comparison with Kato-Katz smear examination. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from August, 2011 to January, 2012 at Sennar State, central of Sudan. Stool and blood samples were collected from schoolchildren (n=214) those with age groups from 6 to 16 years old. Kato-Katz smear was used for the detection of S. mansoni eggs and then the intensity of infection was determined as per standard procedure. IHA and ELISA assays were applied to detect S. mansoni antibodies. Considering the Kato-Katz as a reference method, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive values (PPV) and negative predictive values of serological methods were evaluated. Results: Out of 214 schoolchildren enrolled, 45 (21%) were found to be positive for infections using Kato-Katz technique. Of these, 84.4% were having light infections, 6.7% with moderate infections and 8.9%with heavy infections. Shistosomiasis was significantly higher (P=0.007) among boys (33/124; 26.6%) than girls (12/90; 13.3%). In comparison between the applied methods, the majority of the positive cases were detected by ELISA (56.1%; 120/214) followed by IHA (33.2%; 71/214) and Kato-Katz (21%; 45/214). The sensitivity of the ELISA was 93.3% compared to 84.4% given by IHA. Furthermore, the specificity was reduced to 53.8% in ELISA compared to the 80% detected by IHA. The PPV was increased in IHA (53.3%) than that of in ELISA (35%). The combination use of the ELISA and IHA were yielded good sensitivity (93.3%), increased the rates of specificity to 85.8% and PPV to 55.1%. Conclusions: In the settings where the prevalence of S. mansoni infection was high with a low infection intensity, performing of serodiagnostic methods together with a microscopical examination are required to detect more positive cases.

18-24

Authors: Subramanyam Dasari, Raju Naidu Devanaboyaina Shouri, Rajendra Wudayagiri, Lokanatha Valluru

Objective: To assess the probiotic nature of Lactobacillus in preventing cervical pathogens by studying the effectiveness of antimicrobial activity against vaginal pathogens. Methods: Lactobacilli were isolated from healthy vaginal swabs on selective media and different pathogenic bacteria were isolated by using different selective media. The Lactobacillus strains were tested for the production of hydrogen peroxide and antimicrobial compounds along with probiotic properties. Results: Of the 10 isolated Lactobacillus strains, strain 1, 3 and 6 are high hydrogen peroxide producers and the rest were low producers. Results of pH and amines tests indicated that pH increased with fishy odour in the vaginal fluids of cervicovaginal infection patients when compared with vaginal fluids of healthy persons. The isolates were found to be facultative anaerobic, Gram-positive, non-spore-forming, non-capsule forming and catalase-negative bacilli. The results of antimicrobial activity of compounds indicated that 280 and 140 µg/mL was the minimum concentration to inhibit the growth of both pathogens and test organisms respectively. Conclusions: The results demonstrated that Lactobacillus producing antimicrobial compounds inhibits the growth of cervical pathogens, revealing that the hypothesis of preventing vaginal infection by administering probiotic organisms has a great appeal to patients, which colonize the vagina to help, restore and maintain healthy vagina.

30-34

Authors: Salman Khan, Priti Singh, Mukhtar Ansari, Ashish Asthana

Objective: To determine the antimicrobial resistance patterns of Shigella species to the most commonly used antibiotics in mid and far western part of Nepal. Methods: Stool samples were collected from 458 patients who came from mid and far western region of Nepal, attending OPD & IPD Departments of Nepalgunj Medical College, Nepal, between the periods of September 2011 to March 2013. Standard microbiological procedures were used for isolation and identification of Shigella species while the disc diffusion test was used to determine the antimicrobial resistance patterns of the recovered isolates. Results: A total of 65 isolates were identified as Shigella species. Shigella flexneri, Shigella dysenteriae, Shigella boydii and Shigella sonnei were accounted respectively for 43.07%, 27.69%, 21.53% and 7.69% of the total number of Shigella isolated. Resistances to nalidixic acid (95.38%), ampicillin (84.62%), co-trimoxazole (81.54%) and ciprofloxacin (46.15%) were observed. Greater number of isolates (38.46%) was recovered from those aged 1-10 years. This was statistically significant (P<0.05), compared to the other age groups. Conclusions: The study revealed the endemicity of shigellosis with Shigella flexneri as the predominant serogroup. Children were at a higher risk of severe shigellosis. The results also suggest that nalidixic acid, ampicillin, co-trimoxazole and ciprofloxacin should not be used empirically as the first line drugs in the treatment of shigellosis. Periodic analysis of resistance patterns is necessary for the appropriate selection of empirical antimicrobial therapy.

40-44

Authors: Yuva Bellik

Objective: To compare in vitro antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of the essential oil and oleoresin of Zingiber officinale Roscoe. Methods: The antioxidant activity was evaluated based on the ability of the ginger extracts to scavenge ABTS°+ free radical. The antimicrobial activity was studied by the disc diffusion method and minimal inhibitory concentration was determined by using the agar incorporation method. Results: Ginger extracts exerted significant antioxidant activity and dose-depend effect. In general, oleoresin showed higher antioxidant activity [IC50=(1.820±0.034) mg/mL] when compared to the essential oil [IC50=(110.14±8.44) mg/mL]. In terms of antimicrobial activity, ginger compounds were more effective against Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus, and less effective against Bacillus cereus. Aspergillus niger was least, whereas, Penicillium spp. was higher sensitive to the ginger extracts; minimal inhibitory concentrations of the oleoresin and essential oil were 2 mg/mL and 869.2 mg/mL, respectively. Moreover, the studied extracts showed an important antifungal activity against Candida albicans. Conclusions: The study confirms the wide application of ginger oleoresin and essential oil in the treatment of many bacterial and fungal diseases.

50-53

Authors: Ebrahim Rahimi, Hassan Momtaz, Asma Behzadnia, Zeinab Torki Baghbadorani

Objective: To determine the prevalence rate of Listeria species in bovine, ovine, caprine, camel and water buffalo milk in Iran. Methods: From September 2010 to December 2011 a total of 260 bulk milk samples including 85 bovine, 37 camel, 34 water buffalo, 56 ovine and 48 caprine bulk milk samples were collected from commercial dairy herds, in Fars and Khuzestan provinces, Iran and were evaluated for the presence of Listeria species using cultural method and the PCR assay. Results: Using cultural method, 19 samples (7.3%) were positive for Listeria spp. The highest prevalence of Listeria was found in raw water buffalo milk (11.8%), followed by raw bovine milk (10.6%), raw ovine milk (7.1%), and raw caprine milk (4.2%) samples. All 37 camel milk samples from 20 camel breeding farms were negative for Listeria spp. The overall prevalence of Listeria was 7.3%, in which Listeria innocua was the most recovered species (4.2%); the remaining isolates were Listeria monocytogenes (1.9%), Listeria ivanovii (0.08%) and Listeria seeligari (0.04%). The PCR assay could identify 8 Listeria-contaminated milk samples that were negative using the cultural method. Conclusions: The results presented in this study indicate the potential risk of infection with Listeria in people consuming raw and unpasteurized milk.

57-60

Authors: Shweta, Surabhi Bhatnagar, Ashok Kumar Gupta, Krishna Murti, Krishna Pandey

Co-infection of visceral leishmaniasis and pulmonary tuberculosis are increasing public health problem in eastern region of country. A large number of clinical cases of leishmaniasis and tuberculosis have been reported in Sudan. Such type of co-infections lead to decreased host’s immune system. This is a case report of 48 years old male with visceral leishmaniasis and pulmonary tuberculosis. He arrived at hospital with complaints of fever with rigor, abdominal pain, weakness, loss of appetite, yellowish discoloration of urine and sclerosis at lower back. Bone marrow aspiration cytology revealed the presence of Leishmania donovani bodies (2+). His treatment was initiated with amphotericin B deoxycholate (inj. Fungizone) 15 infusions on alternate days with 5% dextrose. He had 20 years past history of pulmonary tuberculosis. His chest X-ray showed increased bronchovascular marking encysted pleural effusion on lower segment of right lung. Ultrasonography guided fine needle aspiration cytology of pleural fluid for protein, sugar, lactate dehydrogenase, adenosine deaminase, cell type and cell count. Cytological reports confirmed pulmonary tuberculosis. Antitubercular therapy (four drug regimen: rifampicin, isoniazid, ethambutal, and pyrazinamide) was started. Co-infection of visceral leishmaniasis and pulmonary tuberculosis is a real threat in developing countries. There is a need of cost effective diagnostic and therapeutic facilities for these co-infections.

67-70

Authors: Viroj Wiwanitkit

Dengue is an important tropical infection caused by an arbovirus dengue. As a mosquito borne infection, this disease is widely spread in several tropical endemic countries. Millions of world populations are at risk for this arboviral infection. Each year, thousands of dengue infections are reported and there are several death cases. Each year, the outbreaks of dengue emerge in several countries and this implies the global importance of this infection. Fighting with dengue outbreak is important in public health. In this specific chapter, the author discussed lessons learned from previous dengue outbreaks.

78-81

Authors: Nadipinayakanahalli Munikrishnappa Guruprasad, Sushil Kumar Jalali, Hosagavi Puttegowda Puttaraju

Mosquitoes act as vectors for a wide range of viral and parasitic infectious diseases such as malaria, dengue, Chickungunya, lymphatic filariasis, Japanese encephalitis and West Nile virus in humans as well as in animals. Although a wide range of insecticides are used to control mosquitoes, it has only resulted in development of resistance to such insecticides. The evolution of insecticide resistance and lack of vaccines for many mosquito-borne diseases have made these arthropods highly harmful vectors. Recently, a novel approach to control mosquitoes by transinfection of life shortening maternally transmitted endo-symbiont Wolbachia wMelPop strain from fruitfly Drosophila into mosquito population has been developed by researchers. The wMelPop strain up-regulated the immune gene expression in mosquitoes thereby reducing the dengue and Chickungunya viral replication in Aedes aegypti, and also it significantly reduced the Plasmodium level in Anopheles gambiae. Here, we discuss the strategy of using Wolbachia in control of vector-borne diseases of mosquitoes.