Aniruddha A. Malgaonkar

Effect of case-based learning in reproductive physiology on cognitive domain scores of first-year medical students in Western India

Case-based learning (CBL) is a discussion-based smallgroup learning method that makes use of a guided inquiry method. CBL enhances comprehension and acquisition of cognitive skills since learning is placed within its milieu. Learning and its retention is enabled when the topic is connected to real-life situations since the students realise the necessity of understanding the topic for future clinical practice.

Gram staining in Microbiology for second-year MBBS students: Comparative study of student scores in Objective Structured versus Traditional Practical Examination

This cross-sectional comparative study on Gram staining was conducted in a medical college in Maharashtra, Western India. Fourth semester MBBS students (n=90) with prior exposure to traditional practical examination in Microbiology were randomized by lottery method and divided into three groups of 30 students each. Students in Groups 1 & 3 were evaluated by traditional practical examination. Group-2 students rotated through a 3-station objective structured practical examination wherein the pre-validation of the checklist and questionnaire was done by university-approved senior teachers. There were significant differences in the marks scored by students in Groups 1 & 3 (Z=3.818; p<0.002) though they were exposed to the same pattern of traditional practical examination. This could be ascribed to inadequate uniformity in the allocation of marks. The standard deviation of scores for Group-2 (objective structured practical examination group) was the least among the three groups indicating consistency in allocation of marks.

In vitro study of anti-dermatophytic activity of select plant extracts

Dermatophytes are fungi that infest keratin-rich human tissues, such as skin, hair and nails. These fungal infestations, collectively known as dermatophytoses, are caused by various species of Microsporum, Epidermophyton and Trichophyton and constitute an important public health problem. Dermatophytoses generally respond well to topical antifungal therapy. However, topical therapy may not be suitable for extensive infestations. The emergence of drug resistance has sparked a hunt for new anti-fungal agents. Extracts of easily available plants, such as, Ocimum tenuiflorum Linn. (Holy Basil), Cynodon dactylon Pers. (Bahama grass) and Cassia fistula Linn. (Indian Laburnum) were selected for the present study. The results indicate that the extracts of Ocimum tenuiflorum (at 10, 15 and 20% concentrations) and Cynodon dactylon (20% concentration) inhibited the growth of Trichophyton rubrum and Trichophyton verrucosum. However, at 15% concentration, Cynodon dactylon inhibited the growth of Trichophyton verrucosum only. Extract of the bark of Cassia fistula (20% concentration) inhibited the growth of Trichophyton verrucosum and was not found to inhibit growth of Trichophyton rubrum. The results of this in vitro study reveal that extracts of these plants exhibit anti-fungal properties and are prospective alternative inexpensive remedies for dermatophytoses.