\u3ci\u3eDEBARYOMYCES HANSENII\u3c/i\u3e: A FOODBORNE YEAST THAT PRODUCES ANTI-\u3ci\u3eCANDIDA\u3c/i\u3e KILLER TOXIN

Candida yeasts are commensal members of the gastrointestinal, mucosal, oral and vaginal microbiota. Candida albicans and C. tropicalis can be found as a part of the normal human commensal flora, especially in all sections of the gastrointestinal tract. However, when the host defense system and microbiota are disturbed, Candida can become pathogenic and cause severe infection or candidiasis. Antifungal drugs used to treat candidiasis have been shown to result in treatment failures due to drug toxicity and/or development of resistance during long term antifungal therapy and, in recent years, the incidence of Candida infections has increased dramatically due to the rise in the number of immunocompromised patients. Many yeast species can produce toxic proteins or glycoproteins called killer toxins or mycocins which can kill sensitive yeasts. Debaryomyces hansenii is the most common yeast species found in cheese, and can produce killer toxins. In order to examine the diversity and killer toxin profiles of D. hansenii, 48 types of cheeses were collected in 5 sampling periods for fungal isolation. Yeasts and molds were identified and 42 strains of D. hansenii were isolated and screened for killer activity against C. albicans and C. tropicalis using the streak-plate agar diffusion bioassay. Killer activity of crude toxin isolated from D. hansenii strains was quantified at different pH values (4.5, 5, 5.5, 6.0) and temperatures (20 C, 25 C, 30 C and 35 C) by agar diffusion well bioassay. The effect of D. hansenii killer toxin on C. albicans and C. tropicalis growth kinetics was also studied. More than 50% of cheese examined contained the yeast species Debaryomyces hansenii, with Galactomyces geotrichum being the second most abundant yeast species, while Penicillium roqueforti was the most frequently isolated mold. More than 50% of D. hansenii strains demonstrated killer activity against C. albicans and C. tropicalis, killer toxin activity differed among the D. hansenii strains, and killer susceptibility differed between C. albicans and C. tropicalis. D. hansenii killer toxin was active against C. albicans up to pH 5.5 but against C. tropicalis to pH 6.0. Killer activity was higher at low temperature and low pH. Killer toxin activity against C. albicans was detected as high as 35 C. These results confirmed that the same killer toxin from D. hansenii can act differently in different species and correlates with temperature and pH condition; killer toxins which are active at physiological temperature may have medical application. Advisor: Heather Hallen-Adam

Investigating the Rapid Curing Possibility of Geopolymer Concrete

Recent studies of heat-cured fly ash based green geopolymer concrete have shown its suitability for fabrication of structural members. Fabrication of these structural members requires continuous moderate heating (145°F) for 24 hrs, and an oven essential, for a large member can quickly turn into an energy guzzler, potentially eliminating the green credentials of the product. The proposed research involves the development of a frontal polymerization (FP) method that achieves rapid curing of geopolymer at ambient condition after short-term heat application. Initial work shows thermal FP in geopolymer is a possibility and might be a solution to the problem. The process includes blending of monomer, initiator, cross-linkers, and geopolymer slurry, which upon application of heat, polymerizes locally, and the reaction front moves forward to complete the procedure resulting in a solid finished product. Preliminary strength evaluation revealed the strength of FP cured geopolymer mortar specimens are compatible with traditional cement mortar samples. Therefore, frontally cured geopolymer has the potential to save significant time and energy required in the curing of geopolymer product and can create a new horizon in fly ash utilization, the waste often deserted in the environment as a landfill material. Therefore, the research has the potential in generating green credits and means for meeting federal requirements for reduced carbon footprints on federally-funded projects and save taxpayers’ money

Malaria related knowledge, practices and behaviour of people in Nepal

Background & objectives: The information on malaria related knowledge, practices and behaviour of the people of Nepal living in malaria endemic areas are essential to develop behavioural change communication messages and for producing policy to prevent and control malaria in the country. The objective of this study was to assess knowledge, practices and behaviour of the people living in malaria endemic districts and relate with malaria control policy in Nepal. Methods: The paper utilizes data from a cross-sectional study of 1330 households conducted during December 2004 to April 2005 in rural areas of Jhapa, Kailali and Kanchanpur districts. The method used includes structured questionnaire and focus group discussions. Results: The results revealed that 40% respondents were illiterates. Eighty-six percent respondents have heard about malaria but only 50% responded fever with chills as the sign and symptom of malaria. Seventy-three percent responded that mosquito bite causes malaria transmission and 74% respondents considered that malaria is the fatal disease but very few have knowledge that the treatment of malaria in time can save life. More than 50% did not have information on availability of free treatment of malaria in Nepal. Still 16% were found consulting traditional healers for the treatment. The outside sleeping habit was found in almost one fourth of the population mainly in summer season indicating no knowledge about prevention of malaria. Although bednet use practice was higher, only 4% had knowledge on insecticide impregnated bednets and 23% of them practicing it. Issues regarding the proper and regular use of bednets, the quality of the bednet and use of free treatment provided by the government, since these districts are reporting high incidence of malaria.Interpretation & conclusion: Health education must be taken into account for communities in malaria endemic areas to produce desired outcomes in malaria control

Assessment of remittance and its impacts on economic growth in Nepal

This study delves into the issues related to remittance and its role in the Nepalese economy. Remittance is found to have positive association with human capital formation and financial development while negative impact on productivity and international trade in Nepal. Nepal is one of the leading nations of sending workers abroad received approximately US$ 6.29 billion of remittances, almost 25 per cent of its GDP in 2017/18. The investment of remitted amount in unproductive sectors like consumption expenses rather than in productive sectors has resulted in an increment in overall import. The remitted income has occupied a major position of financing which exceeds all the foreign aid and investment in recent years. Thus, the Government of Nepal should make an appropriate policy to maximize the benefit of remittance and retain the manpower to the sustainable economic growth and development sector of the country

Combined anticonvulsant effect of nifedipine and pentazocine in experimentally induced seizures in rats

Background: Epilepsy is one of the common disorders of human with a prevalence of approximately 1% of the total population. Majority of seizures can be controlled with available antiepileptic drugs, about 20% of them still remain resistant to treatment. Recognizing this, there is a need to develop newer antiepileptic drugs with therapeutic potential. Present work is based upon the production of convulsions by maximal electroshock in rats. Evaluation of combined anticonvulsant effect of nifedipine and pentazocine on the duration of convulsion and duration of tonic hind limb extension and recovery in rats.Methods: The study was commenced after obtaining approval from IAEC, Department of Pharmacology, Osmania Medical College, Koti, Hyderabad. All the wistar rats were induced convulsions by Maximal Electro-Shock (MES) method and rats showing tonic hind limb extension response were randomised into four groups (six animals in each group). Group 1 received distilled water, group 2 treated with nifedipine 10mg/kg BW, group 3 treated with pentazocine 30mg/kg BW and group 4 treated with both nifedipine 10mg/kg BW and pentazocine 30mg/kg BW. Drug administered by intraperitoneal route. The data analysed using ANOVA and group means with LSD Post Hoc Test. p‐values <0.05 were considered as significant.Results: When nifedipine and pentazocine were combined, the mean duration of convulsions, tonic hind limb extension and recovery were significantly decreased compared to control, nifedipine and pentazocine.Conclusions: The results obtained in this study provide supporting pharmacological evidence of efficacy, possible potential benefit of combining nifedipine with pentazocine in epilepsy

Heart rate lowering agents in acute coronary syndrome

Background: Heart rate is a key indicator of cardiovascular mortality, with ACS having the highest mortality risk when heart rate is elevated. With a target heart rate of &lt;70 bpm, it is crucial to evaluate the effects of medications that lowers heart rate. Methods: In this prospective observational study, 45 patients with ACS were studied, and it was determined whether or not the patients' heart rates at discharge from the hospital were within goal range. Additionally, we looked at demographics, drug-related issues, vitals and then statistical tests were performed. Results: The demographic of 45 patients showed mean adult age was 47 years and most observed ACS was STEMI (53.3%). Patients prescribed with HRLA showed lower mean HR, SBP and DBP at discharge. Evaluated Optimal HR ≤70 bpm with HRLA therapy at discharge of the inpatients was achieved in 26.6% (63.5±5.5 bpm). Conclusions: The current study showed HRLA therapy effectively reduced the heart rate at hospital discharge, but despite being on HRLA only 1/4th of patients achieved the optimal heart rate

Prescription pattern of drugs in ENT outpatient department of tertiary care teaching hospital

Background: Diseases of the ear, nose and throat (ENT) are common among general population affecting all age groups and accounts for most of the drugs prescribed and used. The aim of the study is to assess the prescription pattern of drugs in ENT outpatient department in a tertiary care teaching hospital.Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted from December 2017 to May 2018 in the ENT OPD (Outpatient department) at Pt. J.N.M. Medical College and associated Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Memorial Hospital, Raipur. Data were collected in a proforma and evaluated.Results: A total of 313 prescriptions were analysed. Most of the patients (40.89%) belonged to 13 - 35 years age group.185 patients (59.10%) were male and 128 patients were females (40.90%). A total of 1003 drugs were prescribed. The average number of drugs per prescription was 3.2. Most common class of drugs prescribed was antimicrobials (24.42%), followed by H1 antihistaminics (18.84%), antiulcer drugs (15.55%) and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAIDs) drugs (14.35%). The average number of antimicrobials per prescription was 0.78. One or two antimicrobials were prescribed in 202 prescriptions (64.53%). The most common prescribed antimicrobial was of Penicillin group (64.89%) followed by Fluoroquinolone (25.71%). The most common prescribed route of drug administration was oral route (81.35%). The most common prescribed dosage form was tablets (74.87%). FDC constituted 24.62% of prescribed drugs.Conclusions: The study revealed that the most common class of drug prescribed was antimicrobials followed by H1 antihistaminics, antiulcer drugs and NSAIDS

Decadal Analysis of ESBL-Escherichia coli Antibiotic Resistance Patterns in Urine Samples from Nepal: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Copyright (c) 2024 Bibek Rana Chhetri, Rajat Thapa, Megha Raj Banjara. This is an open access article available under a Creative Commons licence. The published version can be accessed at the following link on the publisher’s website: https://doi.org/10.33314/jnhrc.v21i3.4723This systematic review aimed to determine the antimicrobial resistance pattern of the extended-spectrum β-lactamases producing Escherichia coli (ESBL-EC) in urine samples in Nepal. Systematic literature review was conducted to locate all articles reporting ESBL-EC in urine samples published between January 2012 to December 2022. The Egger's weighted regression analysis was done to assess the publication bias. A random-effects model was used to calculate the pooled prevalence and corresponding 95% confidence interval due to significant between-study heterogeneity. The strength of correlation between multidrug resistance and ESBL production in E.coli strains was determined using Pearson's correlation coefficient. The data were analyzed using R-language 4.2.2. software. The combined prevalence of E.coli in urine samples was found to be 14 % (95% CI, 11-18), while the overall pooled prevalence of ESBL E.coli and MDR E.coli were 30% (95% CI, 20-42) and 70% (95% CI, 38-90) respectively. A strong positive correlation of 0.99 (95% CI, 0.89-1.0) was found between ESBL production and MDR among E.coli isolates. Imipenem was the drug of choice against ESBL-E.coli in urine specimens. Our analyses showed the overall ESBL-EC and MDR-EC burden in Nepal is considerably high. Likewise, the study also infers an increasing trend of antibiotic resistance pattern of ESBL-EC in urine samples

Sequence-based Methods for Detecting and Evaluating the Human Gut Mycobiome

We surveyed the fungal microbiota in 16 fecal samples from healthy humans with a vegetarian diet. Fungi were identified using molecular cloning, 454 pyrosequencing and a Luminex analyte specific reagent (ASR) assay, all targeting the ITS region of the rRNA genes. Fungi were detected in each fecal sample and at least 46 distinct fungal operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were detected, from two phyla — Ascomycota and Basidiomycota. Fusarium was the most abundant genus, followed by Malassezia, Penicillium, Aspergillus, and Candida. Commonly detected fungi such as Aspergillus and Penicillium, as well as known dietary fungi Agaricus bisporus and Ophiocordyceps sinensis, are presumed to be transient, allochthonous members due to their abundance in the environment or dietary associations. No single method identified the full diversity of fungi in all samples; pyrosequencing detected more distinct OTUs than the other methods, but failed to detect OTUs in some samples that were detected by cloning and/or ASR assays. ASRs were limited by the commercially available assays, but the potential to design new, optimized assays, coupled with speed and cost, makes the ASR method worthy of further study

Combined Anticonvulsant Effect of Nifedipine and Pentazocine in Experimentally Induced Seizures by Maximal Electro Shock Method in Mice

Objective: The aim of the study was to determine the combined anticonvulsant effect of nifedipine (calcium channel blocker) and pentazocine (opioid analgesic) in experimentally induced seizures by Maximal Electro-Shock (MES) method in mice. Methodology: The swiss albino mice weighing 20-40g of either sex were obtained from National Institute of Nutrition, Hyderabad after obtaining ethical approval. The pretreated mice are subjected to MES stimulation by electro convulsometer with alternate current at intensity required to produce tonic hind limb extension response.&nbsp; The animals showing positive response are divided into four groups (6 animals per group). Group I received distilled water, group II treated with nifidipine (10mg/kg/bw), group III pentazocine (30mg/kg/bw) and group IV combination of nifidipine (10mg/kg/bw) and pentazocine (30mg/kg/bw). Intraperitoneal is the route of administration. The parameters like duration of convulsions, Tonic Hind Limb Extension (THLE) and duration of recovery recorded. P&lt;0.05 was considered as significant and P&lt;0.001 was considered as highly significant. Results: The duration of convulsions, duration of THLE and duration of recovery has been significantly reduced in combination treatment wih nifedipine 10mg/kg and pentazocine 30mg/kg compared to nifedipine 10mg/kg and pentazocine 30mg/kg individually. Conclusion: The&nbsp; results obtained in this study&nbsp; provide supporting&nbsp; pharmacological&nbsp; evidence&nbsp; of efficacy,&nbsp; possible potential&nbsp; benefit of combining&nbsp; nifedipine with&nbsp; pentazocine&nbsp; in the treatment of epilepsy. Keywords: Seizures, Maximal electroshock, Electroconvulsometer, anticonvulsant, Nifedipine, Pentazocine