A Single Step Fast Track Methodology for Detection of Hazardous Melamine by Using Highly Sensitive Polyphenolics Modified Nanogold Probe.

A single step fast track method is proposed to determine melamine based on strong hydrogen bonding between exocyclic amine group in melamine moiety and hydroxyl group of tannic acid (TA); acting as reducing and functionalizing agent for synthesis of gold nanoparticles (Au NPs). The proposed strategy is facile and highly time saving; as the detection of melamine with labelfree gold nanoparticles was accomplished within five minutes. The colorimetric probe exhibits high detection limit of 8 nM for melamine determination in raw milk, which is very low as compared to other capping ligands employed for Au NPs such as borohydride, citrate and 3,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid.

Oxidative stress elevated DNA damage and homocysteine level in normal pregnant women in a segment of Pakistani population.

Maternal oxidative stress during pregnancy may impair fetal growth and help in the development of diseases in adulthood. The aim of current study was to assess total oxidation status (TOS), related parameters and their relationship to DNA damage (%) and homocysteine level in normal pregnant women in low-income participants. In a cross-sectional study healthy women were grouped as normal, while age matched nulliparous and singleton pregnancies were included for first, second and third trimester groups.

Gamma radiation induced mutagenesis in Aspergillus niger to enhance its microbial fermentation activity for industrial enzyme production.

α- and β-Galactosidases find application in food processing, health and nutrition. Aspergillus niger is one of the potent producer of these enzymes and was genotypically improved using gamma-ray induced mutagenesis. The mutant-derivative produced two-fold higher α- and β-galactosidases.

Transurethral incision of prostate (TUIP) for minimally enlarged prostates.

Objective: To compare the efficacy of Transurethral Incision of Prostate (TUIP) with Transurethral Resection of Prostate (TURP), in terms of improvement in peak flow rate (Q-Max) and number of complications.

Study Design: It was an interventional, quasi-experimental study.

Place And Duration Of Study: This study was conducted at the Armed Forces Institute of Urology (AFIU), Rawalpindi, from November 2006 to December 2007.

Vesico-vaginal fistula: interposition flap, a key to success.

Background: Vesico-vaginal Fistula (VVF) is an abnormal communication between bladder and vagina that causes continuous discharge of urine in to vaginal vault. The objective of this study is to describe current trends of aetiology and repair of Vesico-vaginal Fistulae. This is a Descriptive Study, conducted at Armed Forces Institute of Urology, Rawalpindi and Combined Military Hospital, Kharian between May 2001 and May 2007.

Cytogenetic damage in female Pakistani agricultural workers exposed to pesticides.

Bhawalpur is a major cotton-growing area in Pakistan. Cotton picking in Pakistan is carried out by females and as a result of the intensive use of pesticides during the growing season these females are exposed to pesticide residues in the picking season. In the present study, peripheral blood was obtained from 69 cotton pickers and 69 unexposed females and used to assess the effect of pesticide exposure on genetic damage as well as on hepatic enzymes and serum cholinesterase.