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Objective: To identify how students with the preferred learning styles rate the academic environment of the Medical College. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Setting: Shifa College of Medicine, Shifa Tameer-e-Millat University. Period: April 2022 to September 2022. Material & Methods: After taking ethical approval from the ethical review board of the institute, a two hours slot was designated in the schedule of students of five years in the private medical college. Students were given two questionnaire, Honey & Mumford LSQ and DREEM. Students were requested to leave the demographic part in order to maintain confidentiality of data. Data analysis was done and the preferred learning style of the cohort was found. DREEM questionnaires of these students were also analyzed in order to find their ratings of the environment. Results: Preferred learning style of the cohort was Reflectors (58.4%). Reflectors marked domains of DREEM as, A more Positive Approach, Moving in the right Direction, Feeling More on the Positive Side, A more Positive Atmosphere and Not too bad. Conclusion: Environment of the medical college seemed fit for the students with preferred learning style (Reflector). Further studies are indicated to rate the environment from students with other learning styles.

Objective: To assess the knowledge and perception of medical students regarding the utility and applications of artificial intelligence in medicine. Methods: The cross-sectional study was conducted at the Shifa College of Medicine, Islamabad, Pakistan, from February to August 2021, and comprised medical students regardless of gender or year of studies. Data was collected using a pretested questionnaire. Differences in perceptions were explored relative to gender and the year of studies. Data was analysed using SPSS 23. Results: Of the 390 participants, 167(43.1%) were males and 218(56.9%) were females. The overall mean age was 20±1.65 years. There were 121(31%) students from the first year of studies, 122(31.3%) second year, 30(7.7%) from third year, 73(18.7%) from fourth year, and 44(11.3%) from the fifth year. Most participants 221(56.7%) had a good familiarity with artificial intelligence, and 226(57.9%) agreed that the biggest advantage of using artificial intelligence in healthcare was its ability to speed up the processes. In terms of gender of year of studies, there were no significant differences on both counts (p>0.05). Conclusion: Medical students, regardless of age and year of studies, were found to have a good understanding of the usage and application of artificial intelligence in medicine. Key Words: Artificial intelligence, Medical students, Education, Perception.

Objective: To determine the frequency of post-operative asymptomatic hypocalcaemia in patients with total and subtotal thyroidectomy. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Setting: Department of Surgery, Sheikh Zayed Hospital, Rahim Yar Khan. Period: 1st July 2021 to 30th April 2022. Material & Methods: One hundred and Sixteen post thyroidectomy male and female patients of age 18-50 years were included in the study using consecutive sampling technique and two groups were formed. Group-A included those patients who underwent total thyroidectomy and in Group-B patients underwent sub-total thyroidectomy. Samples for serum calcium levels were collected in gel tube before and 24 hours after surgery. Post-operative Hypocalcemia was defined by serum total calcium

Objectives: To evaluate the effectiveness of the integrated method of teaching and learning for research methodology taught from year 1 to 3 in a private medical college assessed online through multiple assessments during COVID-19 lockdown. The secondary objective was to explore students’ feedback regarding the online assessment of research methodology. Study Design: Non-randomized Interventional study. Setting: Private Medical College in Islamabad. Period: January 2021 to May 2021. Material & Methods: Research methodology has been incorporated longitudinally in the academic curriculum from year 1 to 3 for the last five years. Students’ knowledge was assessed online through 3- pronged approach using MCQs, SAQ’s and Viva. The total marks of these assessments were 100. An online questionnaire was designed on Google forms to get students’ feedback regarding online assessment using the Likert scale. Data was entered and analyzed using SPSS version 23. Results: A total of 111 students participated in this study. The mean ± SD score of students in all the three assessments were 6.7±1.6, 19.5 ± 6.5, 26.2 ± 17.6 in the viva, MCQs, SAQ’s respectively. Conclusion: The integrated curriculum of teaching and learning for research methodology was useful in terms of achieving learning outcomes. However, students’ performance in SAQ’s was just average which needs to be addressed. The majority of the participants found online assessments to be very useful.

Objective: To explore student’s perception regarding use of E-posters as a learning strategy after its use in the learning of public health concepts in the Gastro Intestinal Tract module. Study Design: Interventional study. Setting: Shifa College of Medicine, Islamabad. Period: August 2019 to August 2020. Material & Methods: Year 3 undergraduate medical students of a private college of Pakistan were given a task to present an e-poster in the module of Gastro-Intestinal Tract, focusing on the public health aspect. Students were divided into 7 groups comprising of 13 students each. Each group was provided with one individual study theme. They were provided with a template to cover all aspects of public health. All the basic scientists involving 30 faculty members were invited to judge the e-poster through a checklist. The mean score was calculated. A certificate was awarded to the group that scored the highest. A focused group interview involving one voluntary participant from each group was carried out. Thematic analysis was done manually. Results: Themes generated in focus group discussion are Opportunities for Self-Directed Learning, Opportunities for Self-reflection, Good formative assessment, Peer to Peer Interaction and Collaboration, Opportunities for developing Self-Regulation, Innovative learning strategy, Working in teams and Confidence Building, Use of IT Related Skills, Need of More Facilities. Conclusion: Students welcomed the use of innovative learning through electronic media when carried out in a relaxed environment.

Biogenic synthesis of cobalt (Co) and copper (Cu) nanoparticles (NPs) was performed using the bacterial strains Escherichia coli and Bacillus subtilis. Prepared NPs were confirmed by a color change to maroon for CoNPs and green for CuNPs. The NPs characterization using FTIR showed the presence of functional groups, i.e., phenols, acids, protein, and aromatics present in the Co and CuNPs. UV-vis spectroscopy of E. coli and B. subtilis CuNPs showed peaks at 550 and 625 nm, respectively. For E. coli and B. subtilis CoNPs, peaks were observed at 300 nm and 350 nm, respectively. Antibacterial and antifungal activity of B. subtilis and E. coli Co and CuNPs was determined at 100 mg/mL concentration against two bacterial strains at 5, 2.5, and 1.5 mg/mL against fungal two strains F. oxysporum and T. viridi, respectively. B. subtilis CuNPs showed significantly higher inhibition zones (ZOI=25.7-29.7 mm) against E. coli and B. subtilis compared to other biogenic NPs. Likewise, B. Subtilis CuNPs showed lower MIC (4.3 ± 6.3) and MBC (5.3 mg/mL) values against both tested isolates. Antifungal activity of B. subtilis and E. coli CuNPs and CoNPs showed a concentration-dependent decrease in ZOI. Among all biogenic NPs, B. subtilis CoNPs showed the highest ZOI (25-30 mm) against F. oxysporum followed by E. coli CuNPs with maximum ZOI (20-27 mm) against T. viridi. Again, B. subtilis CoNPs and E. coli CuNPs showed lowest MIC and MFC values against both fungal isolates. In conclusion, the current study showed that biogenically synthesized B. subtilis Cu or CoNPs can be used as effective antimicrobial agents due to their potential antibacterial and antifungal potential.

Objective: To scrutinise the research proposals of medical residents for inadequacies in writing dissertation synopsis. Method: The analytical cross-sectional study was conducted at the regional centre of the College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan, Islamabad, Pakistan, and comprised synopsis from January to June 2020 of postgraduate residents attached with different hospitals in Rawalpindi and Islamabad. For evaluation purposes, an institutional checklist was used that had 4 domains: general, epidemiological, statistical, and bibliographical review. These were assessed by a single epidemiologist. Data was analysed using SPSS 21. Results: Of the 400 research proposals, 224(56%) were submitted by male and 176(44%) by female residents. Also, 208(52%) proposals were submitted by residents at public-sector hospitals, and 114(28.5%) by those at private-sector hospitals, while 78(19.5%) were from military hospitals. Significant association of errors was found with training institutions, speciality and duration of training (p0.05). Conclusion: Majority of the research proposals lacked correct understanding of all the concepts related to research. Difference in research writing skills across specialties and training institutions may be related to the lack of availability of research assistance and good mentorship. Key Words: EBM, Residents, CPSP, Research, EBP, Epidemiology, Statistics.

Objective: To estimate the burden of Antenatal Depression (AND) and Postpartum Depression (PPD) and explore possible predictors of Perinatal Depression (PND). Methods: A longitudinal study was conducted in the department of obstetrics and gynecology in Shifa International hospital and its community health care center in Islamabad, Pakistan from October 2018 to May 2019 after taking Ethical approval of institutional review board and ethical committee. It included 200 women in their third trimester of pregnancy. Women not consenting, chronic or critically ill, having psychological disorders, medical co morbid or on medications were excluded. Socioeconomic and obstetrical history was recorded on a separate Performa and Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale was used for screening of depression in these women. SPSS was used for data analysis. Linear regression analysis was done to see the association between antenatal and postpartum depression scores. Results: Women in postnatal period had higher Depression scores than women in antenatal period. 12.5% women had AND whereas 36.5% had PPD. Results also suggest that AND increases the risk of PPD. The results also imply that PPD scores are higher in women having unplanned pregnancies and multigravida. Moreover, women belonging to middle and lower class were more prone to PND. Conclusion: It was concluded that AND was strongly associated with PPD indicating AND to be a significant predictor of PPD. Social class and parity are directly linked with prevalence of PND. Continuous...

This study is first to test Pakistani honey bees, Apis dorsata and A. cerana honey samples as anti biofilm, anti quorum sensing (QS) and biofilm dispersal agents honey against multispecies biofilm of bacteria (obtained from obese patients). Briefly, five previously identified isolates Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Morganella morganii and Klebsiella pneumoniae (MT448672-MT448676) were selected. Antibiogram study of all five isolates was tested against three antibiotics viz., erythromycin (20 µg/mL), lincomycin (100 µg/mL) and rifampicin (100 µg/mL). In order to form multispecies biofilm, identified bacteria were grown in batch culture by mixing equal volumes (OD

Background: Erroneous treatments are hovering all over the internet and social media due to non-existence of the ultimate treatment to CoVID-19. There is a need to disseminate correct knowledge and encourage practices based on evidence, which can successfully prevent the spread of this deadly global pandemic. Objectives: The objective of the study was to explore the myths and misconceptions related to CoVID-19 pandemic in a pre and post health awareness workshop among the future health care professionals in a private medical university in Islamabad, Pakistan. Methodology: A quasi experimental study was carried out in March, 2020 over a period of two weeks at Shifa Tameer-e-Millat University, Islamabad. The participants included undergraduate medical, nursing and pharmaceutical sciences students, making a total sample size of 315. Simple random sampling was used. Data was collected using a self-designed questionnaire exploring the myths and misconceptions. A pre and post health awareness workshop was conducted and questionnaires filled by the participants. Data was analyzed using SPSS 23. Result: A change in the frequency of concepts related to myths and misconceptions was observed following the health awareness session, results were statistically significant using McNemar’s test in context to majority of the myths and misconceptions, p-value < 0.05. Conclusion: Health education has very important role in public health especially in times when the health problem is novel. In such situations, emphasis should be paid on the health education as it can modify the behavior regarding myths and misconceptions which can contribute to decrease in morbidity and mortality.

Mental health issues due to the pandemic of CoVID-19 have not been properly addressed since the outbreak emerged. Numerous studies were conducted worldwide to highlight the importance of the effect of pandemic on mental health. A large number of researches were carried out to address the impacts of CoVID-19. In present times, when social distancing and isolation at home is the main preventive measure suggested by the WHO, mental health problems are surfacing which need to be timely addressed and treated. This review article focuses on the importance of mental health issues after the lockdown, social distancing, staying at home and other measures implemented due to the outbreak of CoVID-19. Studies have also highlighted the effects of social media on the prevalence of mental health issues in people worldwide. Based on the findings of previous pandemics, mental health problems can leave long lasting and devastating effects on people. Therefore, adequate preventive measures must be taken to avoid such health problems. Studies have been carried out to emphasize the urgent need of research regarding the mental health issues due to CoVID-19. Many psychological problems like depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, insomnia, fear of getting infected and death, lack of motivation is common during this perplexing period and the challenge is to remotely access such patients for early diagnosis and prompt treatment. Furthermore, the increase in the cases of domestic violence during this time has also been reported which should be addressed. In order to strengthen the mental health of a community, we must find ways to cope with stress and trauma in a better and healthy way in times of crisis.

Earthworm, a ubiquitous (but neglected) macro-invertebrate, is found in terrestrial vicinity of Pakistan. Moreover, the occurrence of earthworms is often diverse with fluctuating quantity depending upon abiotic factors and land usage patterns. The aim of this study was to summarize all the reported information related to earthworm diversity in different areas of Pakistan. Almost all the data published from year 2001 to 2021 were collected. Following data organization, total 42 earthworm's species including five families (Acanthodrilidae, Lumbricidae, Moniligastridae, Octochaetidae and Megascolecidae) were reported from various researchers. Among five families, family Acanthodrilidae was found to have only one specie (Ramiella bishambari), Lumbricidae consist of 10 species (Apporactodea rosea, Allolobophora trapezoids, Allolobophora chloroticaa, Aporrectodea longa, A. caliginosa, Bimastus parvus, Eisenia fetida, Helodrilus foetidus, Lumbricus terrestris and L. rubillus), Moniligastridae has two species (Drawida nepalensis and D. pellucida) while Octochaetidae possess only one specie (Eutyphoeus incommodus). The most abundant and diverse family Megascolecidae consist of 28 earthworm species in all habitats of different regions of Pakistan. Among geographical areas, Faisalabad was found as the richest territory with most reported earthworm species (i.e. 28). The current study suggests further in depth research to explore the unidentified and/ missing species of earthworms in Pakistan.

Biogenic synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) is more eco-friendly and cost-effective approach as compared to the conventional chemical synthesis. Biologically synthesized AgNPs have been proved as therapeutically effective and valuable compounds. In this study, the four bacterial strains Escherichia coli (MT448673), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MN900691), Bacillus subtilis (MN900684) and Bacillus licheniformis (MN900686) were used for the biogenic synthesis of AgNPs. Agar well diffusion assay revealed to determine the antibacterial activity of all biogenically synthesized AGNPs showed that P. aeruginosa AgNPs possessed significantly high (p0.05) antibacterial potential against all tested isolates. The one-way ANOVA test showed that that P. aeruginosa AgNPs showed significantly (p0.05) larger zones of inhibition (ZOI: 19 to 22 mm) compared to the positive control (rifampicin: 50 µg/mL) while no ZOI was observed against negative control (Dimethyl sulfoxide: DMSO). Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) concentration against four test strains also showed that among all biogenically synthesized NPs, P. aeruginosa AgNPs showed effective MIC (3.3-3.6 µg/mL) and MBC (4.3-4.6 µg/mL). Hence, P. aeruginosa AGNPs were characterized using visual UV vis-spectroscopy, X-ray diffractometer (XRD), fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The formation of peak around 430 nm indicated the formation of AgNPs while the FTIR confirmed the involvement of biological molecules in the formation of nanoparticles (NPs). SEM revealed that the NPs were of approximately 40 nm. Overall, this study suggested that the biogenically synthesized nanoparticles could be utilized as effective antimicrobial agents for effective disease control.

Background: Acute abdomen is considered as one of the major causes leading to surgical emergencies and intestinal obstruction, perforation and many other underlying causes resulting in surgical consultation. Aim: To determine rate of recurrence of abd. TB in cases presenting with acute abdomen to Sh. Zayed Hospital, Rahim Yar Khan. Study Design: The Cross sectional study Sampling Technique: Consecutive sampling non probability Sampling Technique Methods: This particular study was conducted at teaching hospital Rahim Yar Khan from 10-04-2021 to 31-12-2022 in which the cases of both genders with age ranging from 15 to 60 years having acute abdomen presenting within 24 hours were included. Abdominal tuberculosis (TB) was labeled on histopathology when there was caseating granuloma. Results: There were around 90 cases included in this present study. Out of these 50 (55.55%) were male patients and the rest of 40 (44.44%) were female patients. Approximately 34.91±11.35 was the Mean age in years of the patients and 67.13±21.39 in Kilograms was the mean weight. There were about 22 (24.44%) cases which had previous history of abdominal surgery. The abdominal tuberculosis was diagnosed in 30 (33.33%) of the cases as shown in figure 12. Abdominal TB was observed in 16 (32%) males and 14 (35%) females in their respective groups with p= 0.81. TB was detected in 20 (35.71%) out of 56 cases in age group 15 to 39 years as compared to 6 (25%) out of 24 cases with age 40-60 years with p= 0.44. There was no significant difference in terms of abdominal TB and weight (p= 1.0) and also with cases that had previous surgery with p= 0.57. Conclusion: The abdominal tuberculosis (TB) is detected in one third of all the cases presenting with acute abdomen and there is no significant association of this with any of the confounding variable of the study. Key words: Acute abdomen, abdominal TB, Granuloma, Biopsy

Objectives: The study was conducted to assess the performance regarding presentation and communication skills of the undergraduate medical students and to explore the perceptions and challenges while adopting to virtual mode of presentation held during the 1st wave of coronavirus disease pandemic lock down in the first ever online scholars’ day. Methods: A mixed method research was designed, enrolling all presenters of scholars’ day, data collection was done in 2 weeks in the month of May 2020. Descriptive statistics were calculated using SPSS version 23.0. An interview guide was prepared to explore participants experience in the online e-poster competition, which took 20 min each conducted by the team of investigators, who were trained before interviews. Thematic analysis was done. Results: The mean score for students’ performance was 8.9 ± 2.1. Three main themes were generated following transcription of data. These include engaging in the tedium of lockdown era, assortment of imperative material in research, Pros and Cons. Conclusion: E-poster presentation is an innovative method of presenting the research work of undergraduate students. It helps students to communicate at a different forum with diversity using multitude of skills, thus enhances learning. Moreover, comments by the audience and judges can provide a platform to brainstorm on research projects before these get published.

Introduction: Evidence based medicine is an interplay of individual clinical acumen and best available evidence through scientific systematic research. With the advent of modern medicine in the last two centuries, medical education has seen and continues to experience its revolutionary effects. An important aspect in this regard is the integration of biomedical research. Objectives: To assess the research skills among undergraduate medical students exposed to the teaching of research longitudinally through all the five academic years. Methodology: A mixed method study was conducted in which third year MBBS students were assessed in a group through power point presentation regarding different concepts of research while critically appraising a research article. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected. Descriptive statistics were calculated, as well as thematic analysis was done. Results: From a total of 102 participants, 58 were male and 42 were female. Majority of the participants (81.4%) achieved an average or a good score and only 18.6% achieved a poor score. Six themes were generated. General enthusiasm about the activity was noted among participants who considered it beneficial. However, only a few were in the favor of incorporating this activity as a mandatory component in undergraduate studies. Conclusion: Incorporating research in a mandatory longitudinal theme component as part of undergraduate medical studies seems a potential method of laying the foundation for future physician scientists.

This study aims at investigating the effects of cultured gut microbiota (GM) of obese human coupled high fat diet (HFD) or chow diet (CD) in development of obesity in mice. 20 stool samples were collected from obese patients and isolated bacteria were identified morphologically and biochemically. Identified isolates were mixed in equal proportions to synthesize obese GM. In vivo study was performed using obese GM combined with HFD/CD using mouse model for three months. Albino mice were treated with ampicillin from one week prior to birth until weaning of the pups at seven weeks of age and then inoculated with obese GM. Sixteen mice were divided into four groups: i.e. group 1 (G1) mice fed with CD, group 2 (G2) mice with HFD, group 3 (G3) mice with GM + HFD and group 4 (G4) mice with GM + CD. Mice from groups 3-4 were considered synthetic community (SC) mice due to transfer of synthesize human GM. 16S rRNA sequencing identified five abundant bacteria as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus sp., Escherichia coli, Morganella morganii, and Klebsiella oxytoca (accession numbers: MZ150742-MZ150746). In vivo study indicated that GM combination with either HFD/CD caused significantly increased body weight in SC mice (BMI; Kg/m2) compared to HFD or CD fed mice groups. One way ANOVA revealed highly significant increase (p ≤ 0.001) in levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides and low density lipoprotein (LDL) in GM coupled diet groups (G3-G4; SC mice) compared to significant increase in HFD group (G2) versus CD group (G1). Our study is first of its kind to report significant effects of using purified strains as obese GM plus diet (HFD/CD) in inducing obesity in SC mice and elevated serum liver parameters as metabolic indicators, hence providing strong evidence about significance of modified GM combination with HFD in developing obesity in SC mice.

Background: This study was conducted to compare the route of administration of diclofenac intramuscular and suppository to see which one of these has more effectiveness. Aim: To compare intramuscular diclofenac sodium Injection with diclofenac suppositories in post operative pain management in patients with Inguinal Hernia. Study design: Randomized controlled trial and non probability consecutive sampling Methods: In this study 150 male cases accompanying age range of 18 to 60 age bearing unintended inguinal split were contained. They were detached into two equal groups and were trained accompanying subcutaneous injection of diclofenac sodium and those camp accompanying diclofenac suppositories. Post functioning pain was evaluated at 6, 12 and 24 hours on optic parallel scale (VAS). Results: In this study there were about up to 150 patients, 75 in each bunch and all were male. The average age in gather A and B was 43.50±5.72 vs 44.16±5.31 a long time individually. There were 47(62.67%) proficient in bunch A and 50(66.67%) in gather B. There were 58 cases each in both bunches having history of smoking. Require for protect absence of pain in bunch A was seen in 28 (37.33%) and in gather B in 19(25.33%) cases. Mean torment score on VAS at 6 hours was 2.39±0.84 vs 2.20±0.90 with p=0.64, at 12 hours it was 2.33±0.89 vs 2.11±0.94 with p= 0.94 and at 24 hours it was 2.03±0.71 vs 1.85±0.89 with p= 0.001. Conclusion: Post operative pain is one of the major concerns and Diclofenac suppositories have shown significantly better results at 24 hours as compared to intramuscular injections; though no statistical difference was observed at 6 and 12 hours. And this difference is also significant in terms of all the study variables at 24 hours in suppository group. Keywords: Inguinal Hernia, Diclofenac Sodium, Intramuscular, Suppository.

The coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), emerged and identified by the end of the year 2019, has been found responsible for a series of lockdowns and a global medical emergency. Since then, several epidemiological studies have been conducted to identify and resolve the mysteries associated with the life-threatening viral strain (SARSCOV-2). The disease caused by SARS-CoV-2 is widely known as COVID-19. Researchers have well-established both the direct and indirect relationships between various climatic patterns, environmental and meteorological factors (i.e. air quality index (AQI), humidity, temperature, wind speed, etc.), and a surge in emergence, stability, and transmission of the COVID-19. The current review aims to dispense the relative variation in COVID-19 emergence, survival, stability, and transmission ratios due to the variant environmental, meteorological, and/or climatic factors., {"references":["Shakil, M. H., Munim, Z. H., Tasnia, M., & Sarowar, S. (2020). 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Introduction: Career choices by newly graduated doctors play an important role in the provision of health care and for the making of health policies. Family Medicine is not being recognized as a specialty of choice among the health care society. The objective of this study was to see the preference of final year medical students towards family medicine as a career choice and its associated factors. Methodology: This was a cross sectional study conducted among final year medical students of private and government medical colleges who were exposed and not exposed to family medicine teaching, after taking informed consent. Results: Out of a total of 175 students 158 planned to go for specialization. Among them a small number, 16 from government and 4 from a private university, planned to join family medicine residency. The majority (74) from private university believed that there is a difference between general practitioner and family physician. Nearly all of them (75) believed holistic care approach as a main domain of family physicians. All private and few government university students said that Family Medicine should be incorporated as a subject in the undergraduate medical curriculum. Recommendations: Family Medicine is in its infancy stage and requires the dire need to increase its awareness through sessions and seminars among health care professionals. Key words: Family medicine, career choice, medical students

In the present study, DNA barcoding was used to assess the percentage accuracy of morphological base identification of spiders from the agriculture fields of district Layyah, Punjab, Pakistan. A total of 872 spiders were captured from June to August of 2017. All the collected spiders were brought to molecular laboratory at GC University Lahore, preserved in 95% ethanol and stored at −20 °C until the DNA extraction. Spiders were evaluated morphologically on the basis of different identification Keys and Catalogs. Morphological identification revealed the presence of 12 families, 29 genra and 49 species. To evaluate the authenticity of morphological identification, tissue samples of 96 specimens were sent to Canadian Center for Biodiversity and Genomics, University of Guelph, Canada. A 658-base pair sequence of COI (Cytochrome c Oxidase Subunit I) of 90 specimens was retrieved successfully, which confirmed the presence of 11 families, 25 genra and 47 species. On the basis of molecular results, all the misidentified specimens were then allotted the correct taxon. Overall accuracy of morphological based identification was 88%. It is concluded from the present study that morphological investigations to identify a spider, are satisfactory but to enhance the accuracy, pace and credibility of results, molecular technique like DNA barcoding is considerable. Furthermore, to magnify authenticity of evaluation of spiders, integrated barcoding- combination of molecular methods and conventional taxonomy- is compulsory.

Objective: The objective of the study was to integrate family medicine practice with the theme of school health service, nutrition and communication skills in the year 4 MBBS curriculum at Shifa College of Medicine, Islamabad. Methodology: Health checkup of students aged 5-15 years, in a private school Mashal Model School, Nurpur Shahan, Islamabad was carried out by a family physician assisted by 100 medical students of Year 4, undergoing Community and Family Medicine clerkship at Shifa College of Medicine, Islamabad. School children were given health education in their identified health problem. Medical students’ views regarding the activity were recorded through focused group discussion. Results: Each medical student got the opportunity to assist health checkup along with educating them on their health issue in an interactive group discussion for five minutes. Mean score of the impact of this activity on their career was found to be 7.55±1.04 while the impact of this activity in their role as a health provider was found to be 7.64±1.12. Different themes were generated from the focused group discussion. Conclusion: Themes of school health service, nutrition and communication skills can be successfully integrated in the undergraduate teaching of community and family medicine. Medical students by assisting the generalist practice in the school environment can learn communication skills, thus moving towards social responsibility.

In recent years, DNA barcoding has become quite popular for molecular identification of species because it is simple, quick and an affordable method. Present study was conducted to identify spiders of most abundant families, i.e. Salticidae and Lycosidae from citrus orchards in Sargodha district using DNA barcoding. A total of 160 specimens were subjected to DNA barcoding but, sequences up to 600 bp were recovered for 156 specimens. This molecular approach proved helpful to assign the exact taxon to those specimens which were misidentified through morphological characters in the study. We were succeeded to discriminate six species of Lycosidae and nine species of Salticidae through DNA barcoding. Results revealed the presence of clear barcode gap (discontinuity in intra- and inter-specific divergences) for members of both families. Furthermore, the maximum intra-specific divergence was less than NN (nearest neighbour) distance for all species. This suggested the reliability of DNA barcoding for spider’s identification up to species level. We got 98% success in our study. It is concluded from present study that DNA barcoding is more reliable tool especially for immature spiders, when morphological characters are ambiguous.

Elevated levels of insecticides detoxifying enzymes, such as esterases, glutathione S-transferases (GSTs), and cytochrome P-450 monooxygenases, act in the resistance mechanisms in insects. In the present study, levels of these enzymes in the insecticide-resistant ground spider Pardosa sumatrana (Thorell, 1890) were compared with a susceptible population (control) of the same species. Standard protocols were used for biochemical estimation of enzymes. The results showed significantly higher levels of nonspecific esterases and monooxygenases in resistant spiders compared to controls. The activity of GSTs was lower in the resistant spiders. Elevated levels of nonspecific esterases and monooxygenases suggest their role in metabolic resistance in P. sumatrana. The reduced levels of total protein contents revealed its possible consumption to meet energy demands.

The present study was designed to record the effect of λ-cyhalothrin, Bifenthrin, and Glyphosate on the mortality, avoidance behavior, foraging activity, and activity of Acetylcholine esterase (AChE) and Carboxylesterase (CarE) in Neoscona theisi (Walckenaer, 1841). Highest mortality (70%) in N. theisi was recorded against λ-cyhalothrin. However, Glyphosate was found to be least toxic. Spider spent less time on insecticides/herbicide-treated surfaces. Insecticides/herbicide-treated N. theisi consumed less prey than untreated control spiders. Similarly, when N. theisi were offered insecticide/herbicide-treated prey, they consumed significantly less. Increased AChE and CarE activities were recorded in insecticides/herbicide-treated spiders as compared to control group. Total protein contents were less in insecticides/herbicide-treated spiders than control group. The results revealed that λ-cyhalothrin is more harmful to spiders as compared to Bifenthrin and Glyphosate. It is suggested that the effect of all pesticides used in agro-ecosystem on beneficial insects should be evaluated before using them in the fields.

Objective To evaluate the satisfaction levels of female patients with the availability and quality of health care services provided at the Community Health Centre (CHC) in Nurpur Shahan, a deprived peri-urban locality in Islamabad. Methods This cross-sectional study was carried out among 346 randomly selected female patients who attended the CHC in Nurpur Shahan from January to March, 2018. Data was collected by face to face interviews using a pre-tested self-designed questionnaire. Data was analysed using SPSS version 23 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA). Results Female patients were largely satisfied with the behaviour (96%) and competence (97.1%) of doctors, the attitude of the paramedical staff (93.6%), quality of medicines (93.6%) and basic facilities at the CHC including drinking water, bathrooms, and cleanliness. Patients had mixed satisfaction levels with various aspects of antenatal services, post-natal care, immunization services as well as the location of CHC (58.7%), availability of prescribed medicines (67.1%) and affordability of laboratory tests at the centre (63.3%). Major areas of discontent were health education regarding breastfeeding and immunization, the average waiting time to see a doctor, the waiting area, and family planning services. Conclusion Although patient satisfaction levels with certain health care services were good, there is considerable room for improvement in other aspects of provided services at the CHC.

To determine the impact of the type of specialty and hospital on the quality of life of medical consultants and residents..This cross-sectional study was conducted at leading hospitals in Punjab and Islamabad Capital Territory from June 2016 to January 2017 to assess the quality of life of medical consultants and residents doing clinical practice for more than 6 months in private and public hospitals. The World Health Organisation Quality of Life - BREF instrument was used to assess the quality of life of the subjects. SPSS 21 was used to analyse the data.Of the 1,154 respondents, 677(58.7%) were male while 477(41.3%) were female. The physical health domain had the highest overall mean score of 66.10±11.40 while the psychological health domain had the lowest overall mean score of 64.13±9.88. Physical health domain, psychological health domain, and social relationship domain score were found to be significantly higher in male doctors compared to female doctors (p0.05). Overall, quality of life was rated as good by 743(64.4%) and very good by 324(28.1%) subjects.Physical health scroes were better than psychological health scores among the participants.

To determine the relation between food intake and diabetes control.This cross-sectional study was carried out at Department of Medicine and Endocrinology, Shifa International Hospital, Islamabad, Pakistan, from July 2016 to February 2017, during which type-2 diabetes patients were interviewed using a structured questionnaire. Demographics, intake of high glycaemic index foods consumed in each food group, and general dietary practices were assessed by means of number of meals per day and adherence to the dietary plan. Glycated haemoglobin A1c values were recorded as well. SPSS 21 was used for data analysis.Of the 180 patients, 100(55.6%) were taking three meals a day. Besides, 108(60%) had an incomeRs50,000. Moreover, 127(70.6%) patients were not aware of the type of diabetes, while 117(65%) patients had high glycated haemoglobin levels. Furthermore, 148(82.2%) made a change in diet following diabetes diagnosis, while 168(93.3%) had recommended food available in their house, and 65(36.1%) followed a strictly-recommended dietary schedule. A statistically significant association was found between the consumption of different desserts/sweets and glycated haemoglobin levels (p=0.008) followed by fruit intake like mangoes (p=0.004) and grapes (p=0.02).There is a need to educate diabetics regarding diet management in terms of glycaemic index of foods.

Objective To determine the knowledge of dengue among school students exposed to various awareness campaigns in model schools of Islamabad. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study of students who were studying in Islamabad Model School for Girls F-7/2 and Islamabad Model College for Boys F-7/3 from September 2017 to October 2017. Students in the ninth and tenth grades who were willing to participate in the study and who were studying in the school for more than six months were included in the study. The data was collected through a self-constructed questionnaire. Cronbach's alpha was used to assess the internal consistency of the questionnaire, and it was found to be 0.83. The data obtained was analyzed on IBM's statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) version 21 (IBM, Armonk, NY). Results Out of 601 participants, 345 (57.4%) were males and 256 (42.6%) were females. The mean age of the participants was 14.72±1.09. About 380 participants (63.2%) were studying in the ninth grade and 221 participants (36.8%) were studying in the tenth grade. A majority of the participants (67.2%) had poor knowledge of dengue. The participants scored highest in knowledge of prevention of the dengue domain and scored the lowest in knowledge of transmission of dengue. A majority of the participants (72.9%) reported that they acquire knowledge about dengue fever through television and radio. About 44.60% of the participants reported that they acquired knowledge about dengue fever through awareness campaigns in school. Conclusions The knowledge of the students was found to be insufficient despite several awareness campaigns. There is a need to re-evaluate the structure of the awareness campaigns as they fail to reach their target. Electronic media was identified as the most useful source of knowledge, and its incorporation can help increase the effectiveness of awareness campaigns.

Poliomyelitis commonly called polio is a highly infectious disease caused by three sero types of polio virus 1, 2 and 3, which attacks the nervous system. The virus is transmitted mostly through feco-oral route, less often it is transmitted through polluted food or water. Since there is no treatment or cure to poliomyelitis, this disease can be prevented only. The World Health Assembly in 1988 set the target to eradicate polio globally by the year 2000 through multiple doses of childhood vaccinations that protect a child for whole life.

Introduction An understanding of epidemiology is fundamental for designing research and understanding evidence-based medicine (EBM). The purpose of our study was to determine the knowledge of epidemiology among postgraduate medical trainees. Methods We carried out a cross-sectional study from January 2017 to June 2017 at the Regional Centre Islamabad, College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan. About 204 postgraduate medical trainee were enrolled in the study after taking written consent. All of the participants were working as a postgraduate medical trainee in different hospitals of Rawalpindi and Islamabad. A self-designed structured questionnaire containing 20 multiple choice questions regarding knowledge of epidemiology was given to all the participants. Knowledge of epidemiology was measured and compared with gender, hospital, and previous history of research. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), version 21.0 (IBM, Armonk, NY) was used for data analysis. Results Out of 204 participants, 46.1% participants were males while 53.9% were females. The mean age of the participant was 28.5 ± 2.5. Majority fo the trainees (33.8%) were training in an Internal Medicine residency program. Most of the trainees (76%) had average knowledge of epidemiology while 18.6% of the trainees had good knowledge. Only 17.6% had some experience of research projects in the past, but this was not related to knowledge of epidemiology (p > 0.05). Conclusion Only 18.6% of the postgraduate trainees had good knowledge regarding epidemiology and 76% had average knowledge. This knowledge did not relate to their gender, hospital settings, and previous experience of conducting research proposals and articles.

OBJECTIVE To evaluate understanding of biostatistics among postgraduate medical trainees before and after biostatistics workshop. STUDY DESIGN Quasi experimental study. PLACE AND DURATION OF STUDY Regional Centre, Islamabad, College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan, from March to September 2017. METHODOLOGY Two hundred and seventy postgraduate trainees were enrolled after taking informed consent. Structured questionnaire containing 21 multiple choice questions regarding understanding and application of biostatistics was given to all participants on the first and the last day of workshop and compared pre- and post-workshop by McNemar test of significance. SPSS version 21 was used for data analysis with p-value

To get preliminary data regarding the prevention of thalassaemia major in future generations.This Knowledge Attitude Practices study was conducted at Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, Islamabad, Pakistan, from January to June 2016, using non-probability purposive sampling. Parents of children undergoing transfusion were interviewed. Questionnaires were used to collect demographics and data about awareness, attitude and frequency of screening among the first degree relatives of a thalassaemia major patient. SPSS 20 was used for data analysis.Of the 270 respondents 240(88.9%) had utilised screening services for their asymptomatic children and had a positive attitude towards prevention, but 30(11.1%) families did not screen asymptomatic children for thalassaemia minor. Besides, 49(18.1%) families had more than one thalassaemia major child in their nuclear family, while, 3(1.1%) were unwilling to let their children undergo tests. Nine (3.3%) respondents said they will not ask a prospective daughter/son-in-law to get tested for thalassaemia minor, while 194(71.9%) respondents had had cousin marriages.There were significant gaps in awareness among affected families.

Introduction In most healthcare models, the first interaction of a patient is with a general physician. The inspection of the oral cavity is a mandatory component of the general physical examination performed by a physician. This helps detect any oral pathology and make suitable referrals. Therefore, adequate oral health awareness is essential for physicians. Our study aimed at evaluating the oral health practices among physicians working in a private teaching setup in Islamabad, Pakistan. Methods A cross-sectional study involving 144 physicians teaching undergraduate medical students at Shifa College of Medicine and its affiliated hospital, Shifa International Hospital, was conducted. Participants were interviewed through a self-designed questionnaire. Later, each participant demonstrated their teeth brushing technique on a standard model of the oral cavity, which was assessed against a checklist conforming to the modified bass technique. A video clip showing the aforementioned brushing technique was shown at the end of the interview. The collected data was analyzed on IBM's statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) version 21. Results Toothpaste was the top choice (97.2%) of teeth cleaning tool with 69% participants brushing their teeth two times a day and 56.9% using toothbrushes with bristles of medium texture. The use of mouthwash (32.6%) and dental floss (11.1%) was considerably low. Dental caries and teeth discoloration were seen in 46.5% and 43.8% physicians, respectively. An alarmingly low number of physicians (31.9%) claimed to have read guidelines regarding oral health. This translated into most participants (78.5%) visiting a dentist only when needed. Only 4.9% participants performed all components of the modified bass technique to clean teeth on the oral cavity model, with up to 22.9% unable to perform a single step accurately. Conclusion The oral health knowledge and practices of physicians were found to be suboptimal and necessitate the integration of oral health awareness in the medical curriculum. A multiprofessional approach with physicians in crucial roles is required to address the burden of dental diseases globally.

A cross-sectional study was carried out at Shifa International Hospital Islamabad over a period of 6 months, to determine the frequency and compare the different lifestyle modifications among patients with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) of different monthly income groups. Two hundred patients of GERD were enrolled in the study and divided into two groups based on monthly income less than and more than Rs. 30,000 respectively. Data was analyzed using SPSS 21. Descriptive statistics were calculated. Chi-square test was applied keeping p-value0.05. Mean age was 40±13 years, 82 (41%) males and 118 (59%) females. Walking was undertaken by 32% after meals and 87.5% consumed tea. Significant difference was seen between income groups and higher intake of fried and spicy foods respectively. Thus, effort needs to be made in creating awareness and counseling patients to practice lifestyle modifications to reduce GERD symptoms and stop sole reliance on medications.

To determine the maternal health status in terms of antenatal, natal and postnatal care.This cross-sectional study was conducted at Shifa College of Medicine, Islamabad, Pakistan, from August 2015 to February 2016, and comprised married women living in Nurpur Shahan, a peri-urban community..A systemic random sampling method was used to raise the study sample. Only members of the household aged18 to 45 years and permanent residents of that area were selected. SPSS 21 was used to analyse the collected data.There were 1,275 participants in the study with an overall mean age of 31.6±8 years. The mean age of marriage was 19±3.6 years while the mean age of first childbirth was 20.8±3.6 years. Besides, 950(74.5%) participants had undergone an antenatal check-up. Moreover, 685(53.7%) underwent delivery in a hospital, 433(34%) had postnatal check-up, and 432(33.9%) were using contraception. Participants who had undergone hospital delivery were 18.7 times more likely to have taken prenatal care and 6.9 times more likely to utilise postnatal care compared to participants who had not utilised antenatal care (p0.001).Most of the participants did not give significant importance to postnatal care.

Objectives Oral health is essential for general health and quality of life. It is a state of being free from mouth and facial pain, oral and throat cancer, oral infections and sores, periodontal disease, tooth decay, tooth loss, and other diseases and disorders that limit an individual’s capacity to bite, chew, smile, and speak; it affects psychosocial well-being too. The objective of our study was to assess teeth cleaning techniques and oral hygiene practices among medical students. Methods The data of the study were collected in two stages. The first stage involved the administration of a self-constructed questionnaire among medical students. In the second step, the students were asked to demonstrate their teeth cleaning techniques on a model. A standard teeth cleaning checklist was used to evaluate the students. The students were then given the checklist and a video on teeth cleaning techniques was shown to them. The data obtained was analyzed on IBM's statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) version 21. Results Out of a total of 444 students, 256 (57.7 percent) were males while 188 (42.3 percent) were females. About 254 (57.2 percent) participants were preclinical medical students while 190 (42.8 percent) were clinical year medical students. A majority of medical students used medium consistency toothbrushes (177; 39.9 percent) and soft consistency toothbrushes (137; 30.9 percent). Most medical students (248; 55.9 percent) brushed two times a day while 163 (36.7 percent) brushed only one time. About 212 (47.7 percent) of the medical students used mouthwash along with a toothbrush while only 36 (8.1 percent) used floss along with a toothbrush. About 157 participants (35.4 percent) changed their toothbrush once in two months while 132 (26.7 percent) changed their toothbrush once in three months. The mean duration that participants brushed their teeth was 134.99 ± 69.01 seconds. Conclusion Medical students were found to have a faulty teeth cleaning technique. There is a dire need to spread awareness about correct teeth cleaning techniques because poor oral hygiene can have a detrimental effect on the overall health and quality of life of an individual.