First Record of Infestation Of Dactylopius Ceylonicus (Green) (Hemiptera: Dactylopiidae) On Opuntia Elatior Mill. (Cactaceae) From Central India

The attack of wild cochineal insect, Dactylopius ceylonicus (Green, 1869) (Hemiptera: Coccoideae: Dactylopiidae) has been reported for the first time on Red flower Prickly pear, Opuntia elatior Mill.  (Cactaceae) from Central India. Opuntia elatior was introduced in India as a part of the cochineal trade during the 1800s and is considered an invasive weed in many countries.  Dactylopius ceylonicus is a wild cochineal insect that secretes red-coloured Crimson dye. The insect was introduced mistakenly in place of a true cochineal insect (D. cacti) in an attempt to establish the Cochineal dye industry during the colonial period in India. Many insects of the Dactylopius genera act as biological control agents for invasive Opuntia species.  Many attempts were made in the past to control O. elatior by using D. ceylonicus but didn’t establish itself on Opuntia elatior. It is the first instance when   D. ceylonicus attacking O. elatior is recorded. Through these research findings, we can achieve targeted biological control of O. elatior without affecting species of economic importance i.e. O. ficus-indica. A voucher specimen of Insect sample was submitted to the National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources, Bangalore. The spatial distribution of insects is localized to small regions and has been shown on the map. Probable reasons for host diversification, evolution, and possible economic benefits are discussed in this research article and the need for further research has been emphasized

First trimester uric acid level: a reliable marker for gestational diabetes mellitus

Background: The prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM) is increasing worldwide and more in developing countries like India. The diabetic epidemic experienced in India can be due to strong genetic factors coupled with increasing urbanization, sedentary lifestyle, changes in the dietary patterns and increasing obesity. Indians are at an 11-fold increased risk of developing gestational glucose intolerance and hence universal screening is essential. Uric acid is a known marker of oxidative stress. Hyperuricemia in early pregnancy may be an indicator of the existing metabolic disturbance which can hinder the maternal physiological adaptations generally seen in pregnancy thus making the pregnant women more vulnerable to the development of gestational diabetes mellitus. The objective of this study was to investigate the association between elevated uric acid levels in the first trimester of pregnancy with gestational diabetes.Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted in Chinmaya mission hospital, Bangalore from June 2016 to March 2017 (10 months). Three hundred and twelve (312) pregnant women of gestational age less than 12 weeks who attended the OBG outpatient department within this time of period for regular antenatal check-up were enrolled in the study. Along with the other antenatal investigations serum uric acid levels were estimated before 12 weeks and also between 24-28 weeks. At 24-28 weeks screening for GDM was done by OGCT using 75 gms of glucose (IADPISG criteria). Other parameters like age, parity, BMI, family history of diabetes was noted and compared.Results: In our study, among the 312 pregnant women, 88 (28%) developed GDM. Of these 74 Women (84%) with GDM had uric acid levels above 3.5 mg/dl and 14 women (15.9%) with GDM had uric acid levels below 3.5 mg/dl. Women with higher BMI showed high uric acid levels.Conclusions: Elevated serum uric acid in the first trimester has a significant correlation with development of GDM. In present study; the cut-off level of maternal serum uric acid of 3.5 mg/dl in the first trimester appears to have a good sensitivity and specificity in identifying those patients who are most likely to develop GDM later in pregnancy

The study of eclampsia as a cause of severe acute maternal morbidity

Background: “SAMM” refers to the morbidity a woman actually suffers1. The identification of Eclampsia as a cause of severe maternal morbidity has emerged as a promising complement or alternative to the investigation of maternal deaths. The most common tool used to identify SAMM is by WHO criteria. Incorporation of near-misses into maternal death enquiries would improve the quality of care and its standardization.Methods: A descriptive study of SAMM in the department of OBG in KIMS hospital done between Jan 2013 to June 2014. The total number of deliveries during this period were 2786. There were 43 cases of Eclampsia as a cause of SAMM. Among this, 1 case was admitted in ICU due to peripartum cardiomyopathy, MODS, HELLP syndrome. Data were collected as per Performa (facility based Maternal Near Miss Review Form [MNM-R FORM] and statistical analysis was performed.Results: The cases of near miss have 2 or more factors responsible for it. In this study,23% of SAMM are due to lack of resources and Lack of transport from home to health care facility. 20% due to lack of human resources.11% due to lack of awareness. Other responsible for minor contributory factors.Conclusions: SAMM can be decreased by identifying factors responsible for it and steps taken to resolve them. Step by step improvement to be done as all the factors are modifiable

STUDY OF MAJJADHATU IN MADHUMEHA WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO DIABETIC NEUROPATHY

Prameha is described as the one of the disease in Mahagada by different Acharyas. Majja Dhatudushti is one of the factor in Prameha (in Pramehadushyas Majjadhatu is included). However the term ‘Majja’ has become synonymous with nervous system, which is encased within bone like bone marrow. The Majja Dhatu is associated with entire nervous system. The nervous system and the bone marrow are treated as homologous structures in Ayurveda. According to Ayurveda, ultimately all Prameha are finally complicated into Madhumeha which can say diabetes mellitus. Diabetic mellitus can be called an epidemic of the 21st century, as The World Health Organization estimates. As estimated, about 60 to 70% of people with diabetes have some form of neuropathy, but not all with neuropathy have symptoms. There are different types of diabetic neuropathies like peripheral, autonomic, focal, etc, among these peripheral neuropathy is most common seen in the diabetics. In this study 50 diabetic patients were selected. Assessment of Majja Dhatu Dushti and Diabetic Neuropathy was done by subjective criteria i.e., symptoms and object criteria i.e. by Monofilament Test, Vibration Test and Reflexes Study. This study show that subject having Diabetes Mellitus history more than five years had Dushti of Majjadhatu and developed the symptoms of Diabetic peripheral neuropathy. This study also shows that symptoms of Diabetic peripheral neuropathy can be correlated with Majjapradoshajavikara. Present study indicated that Majjadhatu (Nervous system) gets vitiated in Madhumeha (Diabetes Mellitus)

Neonatal outcome in randomized controlled trial of low dose oral misoprostol in comparison with intracervical Dinoprostone gel for labour induction

Background: Induction of labour is a therapeutic option when the benefits of delivery outweigh risks of continuing pregnancy. There are several agents for induction of labour to achieve better outcome of labour. Acceptable methods for induction are oxytocin infusion, dinoprostone gel, misoprostol and mechanical cervical dilators. Prostaglandins are the preferred choice in unripened cervix. To study the neonatal outcome in induction of labour with low dose oral misoprostol compared with intracervical dinoprostone gel and also to assess occurrence of meconium staining liquor.Methods: One hundred women with single live fetus, term gestation, cephalic presentation, reactive fetal heart pattern and Bishops score <6 were included in the study. They were randomized to receive either 6 doses of 25ug oral misoprostol every 3rd hourly or 0.5ug intracervical dinoprostone every 6th hourly for a maximum of 3 doses. Oxytocin was administered. Fetal outcome was assessed in terms of APGAR score, meconium staining and need for NICU.Results: Meconium stained amniotic fluid was high in misoprostol group (16%) compared to dinoprostone group (8%). NICU admissions were seen in 7 neonates in both groups.Conclusions: Low dose oral misoprostol is a safe method of labour induction. APGAR and NICU admission rates were comparable in both groups. Meconium staining was more in misoprostol group compared to dinoprostone group

Randomized control trial of low dose oral misoprostol compared with intracervical dinoprostone gel for cervical ripening

Background: Induction of labour is a therapeutic option when the benefits of delivery outweigh risks of continuing pregnancy. There are several agents for induction of labour to achieve better outcome of labour. Acceptable methods for induction are oxytocin infusion, dinoprostone gel, misoprostol and mechanical cervical dilators. Prostaglandins are the preferred choice in unripened cervix. Objective of this study was to compare efficacy, safety of low dose oral misoprostol compared with intracervical dinoprostone gel for cervical ripening.Methods: One hundred women with single live fetus, term gestation, cephalic presentation, reactive fetal heart pattern and Bishops score &lt;6 were included in the study. They were randomized to receive either 6 doses of 25ug oral misoprostol every 3rd hourly or 0.5ug intracervical dinoprostone every 6th hourly for a maximum of 3 doses.Results: Bishops score improvement after 6,12,18 hours in both the groups was statistically insignificant. Induction delivery interval was11.96±5.88 for misoprostol and 10.95±4.58 in dinoprostone group with P value 0.341 which was statistically insignificant. Need for oxytocin augmentation was less (18%) in misoprostol group as compared to dinoprostone group (44%). Caesarean section rate was slightly higher in misoprostol group (26% vs 24%). Meconium stained amniotic fluid was high in misoprostol group (16%) compared to dinoprostone group (8%). Maternal complications were minimal and neonatal outcome was good in both the groups.Conclusions: Compared to dinoprostone; misoprostol is easy to store, cost effective, stable at room temperature, can be easily administered and had better patient compliance and acceptability. It was found to be a better cervical ripening agent with similar maternal and fetal safety profile

CPK: The new tool in the diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy

Background: Ectopic pregnancy is still a diagnostic dilemma presenting with various complaints. The classic triad of amenorrhea, abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding and /or syncope is not always seen. Misdiagnosis can lead to delay in treatment, blood loss is found to be the major cause of death. Early and accurate diagnosis is critical in bringing down the maternal mortality and morbidity. Prompt and effective treatment of an ectopic pregnancy can help preserve the chances of future healthy pregnancies. Aim of present study was to investigate whether creatinine phosphokinase (cpk) can be used as an effective diagnostic tool in the early diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy which can help in decreasing the maternal mortality and morbidityMethods: This observational comparative three group clinical study was conducted at Chinmaya Mission Hospital, Bangalore, between May 2016 to January 2017.120 women in their early trimester were studied of which 40 were diagnosed cases of ectopic pregnancies, 40 women presented with intrauterine abortive pregnancies and 40 women had normal healthy pregnancies. Serum CPK, serum B-HCG, vaginal scans were done in all, along with routine investigations.Results: The mean CPK values in normal, abortive and ectopic pregnancies were 36.92±6.44, 43.95±11.96 and 91.55±30.43 respectively. It was found to be significantly higher in ectopic Pregnancies. Also, the mean CPK in ruptured and unruptured ectopic pregnancy were 97.26±25.97 and 63.82±34.92 respectively.Conclusions: Present study shows that maternal CPK levels are significantly higher in women with ectopic pregnancies. CPK can serve as the reliable biochemical marker to diagnose ectopic pregnancy particularly ruptured. CPK can be used to increase the diagnostic efficacy in ectopic pregnancy, which followed by rapid and appropriate treatment can reduce the mortality, morbidity and preserve future fertility

An Overview of Software Cost Estimation Models

To date most work carried out in the software cost estimation field has focused on  algorithmic cost modeling. In this process, costs are analysed using mathematical formulae linking costs or inputs with metrics to produce an estimated output. The formulae used in a formal model arise from the analysis of historical data. The accuracy of the model can be improved by calibrating the model to your specific development environment, which basically involves adjusting the weightings of the metrics. There are a variety of different models available, the best known are Boehm's COCOMO[BOEHM-81], Putman's SLIM , and Albrecht's' FP [ALBR-83].This paper takes an overview of various Software Cost Estimation  Models used widely for software project cost  estimation

Machine Learning-Enhanced Advancements in Quantum Cryptography: A Comprehensive Review and Future Prospects

Quantum cryptography has emerged as a promising paradigm for secure communication, leveraging the fundamental principles of quantum mechanics to guarantee information confidentiality and integrity. In recent years, the field of quantum cryptography has witnessed remarkable advancements, and the integration of machine learning techniques has further accelerated its progress. This research paper presents a comprehensive review of the latest developments in quantum cryptography, with a specific focus on the utilization of machine learning algorithms to enhance its capabilities. The paper begins by providing an overview of the principles underlying quantum cryptography, such as quantum key distribution (QKD) and quantum secure direct communication (QSDC). Subsequently, it highlights the limitations of traditional quantum cryptographic schemes and introduces how machine learning approaches address these challenges, leading to improved performance and security. To illustrate the synergy between quantum cryptography and machine learning, several case studies are presented, showcasing successful applications of machine learning in optimizing key aspects of quantum cryptographic protocols. These applicatiocns encompass various tasks, including error correction, key rate optimization, protocol efficiency enhancement, and adaptive protocol selection. Furthermore, the paper delves into the potential risks and vulnerabilities introduced by integrating machine learning with quantum cryptography. The discussion revolves around adversarial attacks, model vulnerabilities, and potential countermeasures to bolster the robustness of machine learning-based quantum cryptographic systems. The future prospects of this combined field are also examined, highlighting potential avenues for further research and development. These include exploring novel machine learning architectures tailored for quantum cryptographic applications, investigating the interplay between quantum computing and machine learning in cryptographic protocols, and devising hybrid approaches that synergistically harness the strengths of both fields. In conclusion, this research paper emphasizes the significance of machine learning-enhanced advancements in quantum cryptography as a transformative force in securing future communication systems. The paper serves as a valuable resource for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers interested in understanding the state-of-the-art in this multidisciplinary domain and charting the course for its future advancements

Ublažavajući učinak biljke Andrographis paniculata na promjene u brojlera uzrokovane bakterijom E. coli

The present investigation was carried out to evaluate the ameliorative effect of Andrographis paniculata during E. coli-induced pathology in broilers. Day-old broiler chicks (n = 100) were randomly divided into four equal groups. Group I served as a negative control and was fed with a commercial diet. On day 8, the birds from groups II and IV were challenged with a single oral dose of E. coli broth culture 0.2 mL (1×109 cfu/mL). Groups III and IV were fed with Andrographis paniculata 5 g/kg of feed from day old to the end of the experiment. The total duration of the experiment was 35 days. On the 7th, 21st and 28th day post infection (DPI) with E. coli, six birds from each group were randomly sacrificed and observed for gross and histopathogical observations. Group II birds showed ascites and thickened intestinal mucosa with cheesy material on the 28th and 35th DPI. Pathomorphological alterations, viz. congestion, hemorrhages, degenerations, necrosis, fibrinous exudates, edema, mononuclear cell and heterophil infiltration in the lung, liver, heart, kidneys and duodenum were observed in group II birds, along with depletion of the lymphoid cell population in the spleen. Pretreatment of Andrographis paniculata in the E. coli challenged group led to mild degenerative changes in all organs, indicating the putative protective effect of the plant during E. coli induced pathology in broilers. However, further, more elaborated study is required to calculate the dosage of Andrographis paniculata for use as an antibacterial agent in broiler feed.Istraživanje je provedeno kako bi se procijenio ublažavajući učinak biljke Kineski andrografis (Andrographis paniculata) na patološke procese u brojlera uzrokovane bakterijom E. coli. Jednodnevni pilići (n = 100) slučajnim su odabirom podijeljeni u četiri jednake skupine. Prva je skupina poslužila kao negativna kontrola i hranjena je komercijalnom hranom. Osmi dan pilićima iz druge i četvrte skupine peroralno je dana jednokratna doza E. coli bujona u količini od 0,2 mL (1×109 cfu/mL). Treća i četvrta skupina hranjene su biljkom Andrographis paniculata u količini od 5 g/kg hrane od početka do kraja pokusa. Istraživanje je trajalo 35 dana. Sedmi, 21. i 28. dan nakon zaražavanja bakterijom E. coli po šest pilića iz svake skupine nasumce je usmrćeno te su promatrane makroskopske i patohistološke promjene. U drugoj je skupini uočen ascites i zadebljanje crijevne sluznice sa sirastim naslagama 28. i 35. dan poslije zaražavanja. U toj su skupini promatrane patomorfološke promjene poput kongestije, krvarenja, degeneracije, nekroze, fibrinskog eksudata, edema, infiltracije pluća, jetre, srca, bubrega i dvanaesnika mononuklearnim i heterofilnim stanicama, uz depleciju limfoidnih stanica u slezeni. Dodavanje biljke Andrographis paniculata skupini zaraženoj bakterijom E. coli utjecalo je na pojavu blažih degenerativnih promjena u svim organima, što upućuje na zaštitni učinak biljke tijekom izlaganja brojlera bakteriji E. coli. Potrebna su daljnja istraživanja kako bi se izračunala doza biljke Andrographis paniculata kao antibakterijskog dodatka/lijeka u prehrani brojlera