Objectives: To compare antimicrobial resistance in S. Typhi and S. Paratyphi A isolates from Pakistan. Methods: Blood samples were collected through > 175 laboratory collection points in major cities and towns across the country. The study included 3,671 S. Typhi and 1,475 S. Paratyphi A isolates (2001)(2002)(2003)(2004)(2005)(2006). Multidrug resistance (MDR) was defined as resistance to first-line agents co-trimoxazole, chloramphenicol and ampicillin. Results: In total, 79.3% S. Typhi and 59.9% S. Paratyphi A were isolated from patients under 15 years of age. During the study period, the MDR rate increased in S. Typhi (34.2 to 48.5% p<0.001), but decreased in S. Paratyphi A (44.5 to 8.6% p<0.001). Quinolone resistance (MIC>1μg/ml) increased in both S. Typhi (1.6 to 64.1% p<0.001) and S. Paratyphi A (0 to 47% p<0.001). The increase in the proportion of strains showing high level quinolone resistance (MIC >4μg/ml) was greater in S. Paratyphi A when compared to S. Typhi. Resistance to first-line drugs was higher in those <15 years of age whereas quinolone resistance was higher in older patients. Conclusion: Differences between S. Typhi and S. Paratyphi A, in terms of evolution of resistance to first-line agents and to quinolones, are evident in this population. The rapid increase in quinolone resistance in S. Paratyphi A when compared to S. Typhi is concerning and requires further study.
Maize stem borer (Chilo partellus) is considered a major threat for agricultural crops especially sorghum and maize and a main entomological research problem in the globe, especially in Pakistan. A study was conducted to check the life cycle of maize stem borer, C. partellus on maize under controlled conditions in 2019. The complete metamorphosis (egg, larva, pupa and adult) was recorded. The embryonic period was 4-6 days. The results showed that 1 st , 2 nd , 3 rd , 4 th , 5 th and 6 th instar period was 3.98 ± 1.00, 3.99 ± 2.76, 4.35 ±1.65, 4.15 ± 2.94, 5.23 ± 2.58 and 6.22 ± 2.37 days, respectively with 33.12± 9.25 days total larval period. Pupa was obtect and the fecundity was recorded 170-200 eggs per female. The pre-mating and mating period was lasted for 7-12 and 3-6 hours, respectively while the oviposition period lasted for 3-5 days. The total life cycle from egg to adult was 32-71 days. The current findings are very important in managing this pest on various crops around the globe especially in Pakistan.
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