Puducherry had reported regular dengue outbreaks since 2003 with many-fold increase in number of cases every year. This study was done to assess the intensity of dengue vector breeding and diversity of breeding habitats. Aedes surveys were conducted in 8 Primary Health Centres (PHCs) representing both rural and urban areas of Puducherry district throughout the year 2012. Containers inside and outside randomly (simple) selected houses and vacant sites around houses were examined for presence of Aedes mosquitoes. The containers containing water with immature larvae were designated as positive containers (PC), while the containers holding only water were designated as wet containers and all the larvae/pupae from the positive containers were collected and entomological indices were determined using standard WHO methods. The vectors, Aedes aegypti and Ae. albopictus were encountered in the survey, with Ae. aegypti present in high numbers in urban as well as rural areas. The plastic containers were found as the most productive indoor breeding habitat as the 27.2% of the total pupae collected was contributed by plastic containers followed by flower vase (22.8%) and grinding stone (17.6%). Larval indices were found to vary throughout the year and highest indices were recorded during the months of October and November indicating the potential risk of dengue fever during this period.

Leishmaniasis is a neglected tropical parasitic disease affecting a large number of countries in the world. Early diagnosis of Leishmania infections is essential for therapeutic reasons, as it can decrease morbidity and mortality. L. siamensis and L. martiniquensis are novel Leishmania species recently described in Thailand and Myanmar. The disease is usually found in immunocompromised patients, especially those who have AIDS. Currently, the diagnosis of Leishmania infection in Thailand relies on microscopy, microbial culture, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). In this study, we established a quantitative PCR (qPCR) method for detection of L. martiniquensis DNA in various types of clinical specimens, including whole blood, buffy coat, saliva, and urine of L. martiniquensis infected patients. The results of the qPCR assay were positive in all saliva samples. The assay is therefore effective to detect L. martiniquensis DNA even in noninvasive specimens, and it could be used for the diagnosis, follow up, and survey of L. martiniquensis infections.

Losing of an ear can be a fatal experience for a patient. The deformed appearance of the face resulting after an oncosurgery or an accidental trauma may results in psychological as well as social embarrassment for the patient. It is a challenge to manage such defect on the face with surgery/artificial prostheses. Prosthetic rehabilitation of auricular defects can be a demanding procedure due to a broad variety of clinical presentations and a wide array of treatment options. The defect can be restored with custom made auricular prosthesis made up of silicon elastomeric material, which gives life-like appearance and also improves the quality of life of the patient. The patient can feel more comfortable and accepted in the social circle. A multidisciplinary approach and team management are essential in providing more accurate and effective rehabilitation of such defects. This article describes an easy technique of using silicone auricular prosthesis, with thin flash extending around the defect for better retention and orientation. Moreover it is more aesthetically acceptable and economically cost effective and such prosthesis helps patients who refuse to undergo second surgery for implant supported prosthesis.