Effect of chemical pretreatment on dehulling parameters of flaxseed (cv. Garima)

In the present study, effects of chemical (ethanol, HCl and sulphuric acid) pretreatment on various dehulling parameters of flaxseed (cv. Garima) including yield, hull, hullability, extraction rate and embryo (dehulled flaxseed) recovery were studied. Pretreated flaxseed, at 3.1 to 3.6 % moisture range (p > 0.05) were dehulled for 60 s in a laboratory model rice polisher/dehulling machine at 2,000 rpm followed by aspiration (hull separation) using a laboratory model aspirator. The study revealed that chemical pre-dehulling treatment of flaxseed plays a significant role in the embryo recovery of flaxseed. Both ethanol and HCl pre-dehulling treatment enhanced but sulphuric acid pretreatment reduced the embryo recovery of flaxseed. Moreover, HCL and Sulphuric acid deteriorated the quality of hull obtained during dehulling, hence may not be considered for flaxseed dehulling. The study showed the maximum embryo recovery from ethanol pretreated flaxseed, hence ethanol pre-dehulling treatment with 2 h tempering time may be considered for effective flaxseed dehulling.

Removal of americium from aqueous nitrate solutions by sorption onto PC88A-impregnated macroporous polymeric beads

The removal of Am (III) ions from aqueous solutions was studied by solid-liquid extraction using indigenously synthesized Extractant Impregnated Macroporous Polymeric Beads (EIMPBs). These beads were prepared by an in situ phase inversion method using polyethersulfone (PES) as base polymer and 2-ethylhexyl phosphonic acid mono-2-ethylhexyl ester (PC88A) as an extractant. The synthesized EIMPBs were characterized by FTIR, TGA and SEM techniques. The batch equilibration study using these beads for the uptake of Am (III) was carried out as a function of parameters, like pH, equilibration time, Am (III) concentration, etc. The blank polymeric beads, without PC88A, have shown negligible sorption of Am (III) under the experimental conditions. The experimental data on the sorption behavior of Am (III) on the polymeric beads fitted well in the pseudo-second-order kinetics model. The synthesized polymeric beads exhibited very good sorption capacity for Am (III) at pH 3. The reusability of the beads was also ascertained by repetitive sorption/desorption of Am (III) up to 10 cycles of operation, without any significant change in their sorption characteristics.

Intracellular mannose binding lectin mediates subcellular trafficking of HIV-1 gp120 in neurons

Human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) enters the brain early during infection and leads to severe neuronal damage and central nervous system impairment. HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein 120 (gp120), a neurotoxin, undergoes intracellular trafficking and transport across neurons; however mechanisms of gp120 trafficking in neurons are unclear. Our results show that mannose binding lectin (MBL) that binds to the N-linked mannose residues on gp120, participates in intravesicular packaging of gp120 in neuronal subcellular organelles and also in subcellular trafficking of these vesicles in neuronal cells. Perinuclear MBL:gp120 vesicular complexes were observed and MBL facilitated the subcellular trafficking of gp120 via the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and Golgi vesicles. The functional carbohydrate recognition domain of MBL was required for perinuclear organization, distribution and subcellular trafficking of MBL:gp120 vesicular complexes. Nocodazole, an agent that depolymerizes the microtubule network, abolished the trafficking of MBL:gp120 vesicles, suggesting that these vesicular complexes were transported along the microtubule network. Live cell imaging confirmed the association of the MBL:gp120 complexes with dynamic subcellular vesicles that underwent trafficking in neuronal soma and along the neurites. Thus, our findings suggest that intracellular MBL mediates subcellular trafficking and transport of viral glycoproteins in a microtubule-dependent mechanism in the neurons.

Transesterification of Sunflower Oil in Microreactors

KOH catalyzed transesterification of sunflower oil using methanol has been studied in different types of microreactors. All the microreactors consist of a serpentine microchannel etched in a glass chip but have different types of microfluidic junctions (dispersing devices). First microreactor consists of a T-type microfluidic junction. The second microreactor has a †-type microfluidic junction. The third microreactor uses a split and recombine micromixer to generate the dispersion. Effects of temperature, flow rate, and feed molar ratio on the conversion of triglyceride (TG) have been studied. In some cases, conversion of TG is not found to change monotonically with change in flow rate. An attempt has been made to explain this seemingly unusual trend, and the explanations are substantiated using the liquid–liquid two-phase flow patterns observed using a high-speed image acquisition system. The results from the experiments conducted in this study indicate that it is possible to get very high TG conversion (>90%) with residence time less than a minute.

Low dose methylprednisolone induced bradycardia

Methylprednisolone induced arrhythmias, especially bradycardia, are well known. Most of the available reports suggest the occurrence of these arrhythmias with high dose intravenous therapy. We, hereby report a case of low dose methylprednisolone induced bradycardia.

PC-88A – impregnated polymeric beads: Preparation, characterization and application for extraction of Pu(IV) from nitric acid medium

The extractant-impregnated polymeric beads (EIPBs), containing polyethersulfone as base polymer and 2-ethylhexyl phosphonic acid mono-2-ethylhexyl ester (PC-88A) as an extractant, were prepared by phase inversion method. These EIPBs were characterized by FTIR, TGA and SEM techniques. The beads were found to have excellent acid stability, since these did not exhibit any structural deformation or loss of the extractant into aqueous nitric acid solution (6 M), for a period of 15 d. The feasibility of Pu(IV) extraction, using these beads, from nitric acid solution was tested by batch equilibration method. Parametric dependence of Pu(IV) extraction on experimental variables, like strength of nitric acid, equilibration time, Pu(IV) concentration, etc., was investigated. The present study also addressed the important practical issues, like maximum loading capacity and the reusability of these beads. Under optimized conditions, equilibrium capacity and maximum loading capacity for Pu(IV) were found to be 2.03 and 7.50 mg per gram of the swollen beads, respectively. The reusability of the beads was also ascertained by repetitive extraction-stripping of Pu(IV) up to 7 cycles of operation, without significant change in their extraction performance. The extraction of Pu(IV) by the blank polymeric beads was observed to be almost negligible, under the similar experimental conditions.

Quality evaluation of millet-soy blended extrudates formulated through linear programming

Whole pearl millet, finger millet and decorticated soy bean blended (millet soy) extrudates formulations were designed using a linear programming (LP) model to minimize the total cost of the finished product. LP formulated composite flour was extruded through twin screw food extruder at different feed rate (6.5-13.5 kg/h), screw speed (200-350 rpm, constant feed moisture (14% wb), barrel temperature (120 °C) and cutter speed (15 rpm). The physical, functional, textural and pasting characteristics of extrudates were examined and their responses were studied. Expansion index (2.31) and sectional expansion index (5.39) was found to be was found maximum for feed rate and screw speed combination 9.5 kg/h and 250 rpm. However, density (0.25 × 10(-3) g/mm(3)) was maximum for 9.5 kg/h and 300 rpm combination. Maximum color change (10.32) was found for 9.5 kg/h feed rate and 200 rpm screw speed. The lower hardness was obtained for the samples extruded at lowest feed rate (6.5 kg/h) for all screw speed and feed rate at 9.5 kg/h for 300-350 rpm screw speed. Peak viscosity decreases with all screw speed of 9.5 kg/h feed rate.

Open transinguinal preperitoneal mesh repair of inguinal hernia: a targeted systematic review and meta-analysis of published randomized controlled trials

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this article is to systematically analyse the randomized, controlled trials comparing transinguinal preperitoneal (TIPP) and Lichtenstein repair (LR) for inguinal hernia.

METHODS

Randomized, controlled trials comparing TIPP vs LR were analysed systematically using RevMan® and combined outcomes were expressed as risk ratio (RR) and standardized mean difference.

RESULTS

Twelve randomized trials evaluating 1437 patients were retrieved from the electronic databases. There were 714 patients in the TIPP repair group and 723 patients in the LR group. There was significant heterogeneity among trials (P < 0.0001). Therefore, in the random effects model, TIPP repair was associated with a reduced risk of developing chronic groin pain (RR, 0.48; 95% CI, 0.26, 0.89; z = 2.33; P < 0.02) without influencing the incidence of inguinal hernia recurrence (RR, 0.18; 95% CI, 0.36, 1.83; z = 0.51; P = 0.61). Risk of developing postoperative complications and moderate-to-severe postoperative pain was similar following TIPP repair and LR. In addition, duration of operation was statistically similar in both groups.

CONCLUSION

TIPP repair for inguinal hernia is associated with lower risk of developing chronic groin pain. It is comparable with LR in terms of risk of hernia recurrence, postoperative complications, duration of operation and intensity of postoperative pain.

An emerging role for Wnt and GSK3 signaling pathways in schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a disabling illness with limited treatment options. The underlying pathophysiology remains unknown, partially due to its heterogeneous nature, and a lack of understanding of the biological functions of genetic risk factors. Several signaling pathways have been implicated, however, with the varying degrees of support. In this article, I will focus on the converging evidence supporting a prominent role for Wnt and glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK3) signaling in the biological bases of schizophrenia. This includes current pharmacological therapies that target GSK3, animal model and cell-based studies, and recent human genetic findings that implicate Wnt and GSK3 signaling.

Use of antibacterial sutures for skin closure in controlling surgical site infections: a systematic review of published randomized, controlled trials

Objective: The objective of this article is to systematically analyse the randomized, controlled trials that compare the use of antibacterial sutures (ABS) for skin closure in controlling surgical site infections.

Methods: Randomized, controlled trials on surgical patients comparing the use of ABS for skin closure in controlling the surgical site infections were analysed systematically using RevMan® and combined outcomes were expressed as odds ratios (OR) and standardized mean differences (SMD).

Results: Seven randomized, controlled trials evaluating 1631 patients were retrieved from electronic databases. There were 760 patients in the ABS group and 871 patients in the simple suture group. There was moderate heterogeneity among trials (Tau² = 0.12; chi² = 8.40, df = 6 [P < 0.01]; I² = 29%). Therefore in the random-effects model, the use of ABS for skin closure in surgical patients was associated with a reduced risk of developing surgical site infections (OR, 0.16; 95% CI, 0.37, 0.99; z = 2.02; P < 0.04) and postoperative complications (OR, 0.56; 95% CI, 0.32, 0.98 z = 2.04; P = 0.04). The durations of operation and lengths of hospital stay were similar following the use of ABS and SS for skin closure in patients undergoing various surgical procedures.

Conclusion: Use of ABS for skin closure in surgical patients is effective in reducing the risk of surgical site infection and postoperative complications. ABS is comparable with SS in terms of length of hospital stay and duration of operation.

Stability studies of N,N,N´,N´-tetra-(2-ethylhexyl) dithiodiglycolamide (DTDGA)

DTDGA solvent system was evaluated for hydrolytic and radiolytic stabilities to ascertain its application in separation and recovery of palladium from High Level Liquid Waste (HLW) solutions. Hydrolysis of DTDGA solvent system was not observed when it was kept in contact with 3.0 M nitric acid solution for two weeks. Moreover, contrary to other ‘S’ donor extractants used for the said purpose, the oxidation of thioetheric sulphur to sulphoxide or sulphones was also not observed. On the other hand, radiolysis of DTDGA solvent system was notably observed, which was found to increase with increase in absorbed dose. At gamma radiation dose of 0.2 MGy, no significant loss of DTDGA was observed. Aliphatic diluent namely n-dodecane was found to have sensitization effect on degradation of DTDGA. The degradation products were identified by GC-MS, the major ones were found to be formed by cleavage of thioetheric and amidic bonds of DTDGA molecule. The liquid–liquid extraction studies of palladium with irradiated solvent indicate that there was no significant change in D Pd up to an absorbed dose of 0.2 MGy above which it decreases gradually. Further, the radiolysis does not affect the stripping behavior of palladium. Extraction studies of Simulated High Level Liquid Waste (SHLW) elements with irradiated solvent system showed that, except palladium, any other element is hardly extracted thus retaining its remarkable selectivity.

Cryogenics and its application with reference to spice grinding: a review

Cryogenics is the study of very low temperature and its application on different materials including biological products. Cryogenics has numerous applications in space science, electronics, automobiles, the manufacturing industry, sports and musical instruments, biological science and agriculture, etc. Cryogenic freezing finds pivotal application in food, that is, spices and condiments. Although there is a wide range of cryogens to produce the desired low temperature, generally liquid nitrogen (LN₂) is used in food grinding. The application of low temperature shows a promising pathway to produce higher quality end product with higher flavor and volatile oil retention. Cryogenic grinders generally consist of precoolers and grinder with the cryogen distribution system. In such grinding systems, cryogens subject the raw material up to or lower than glass transition temperature before it is ground, thus eliminating much of the material and quality hassles of traditional grinding. At present, the capital investment including cryogen and handling costs escalate the final cost of the product. Thus, for large-scale production, a proper design to optimize and make it feasible is the need of the hour and understanding the behavior of different food materials at these low temperature conditions. This article reviews the scenario and application of cryogenics in different sectors, especially to spice grinding.

Rheological and nutritional quality of selected dehulled legumes blended rice extrudates

Rheological and nutritional quality of ready-to-eat rice (Oryza sativa ) -legume viz. black gram (Vigna mungo), green gram (Vigna radiata), lentil (Lens culinaris) and peas (Pisum sativum) based extrudates were studied using low cost collet extruder. Extrudates were prepared keeping constant feed rate (25 kg/h) and moisture content (14% wb) at 0, 5, 10 and 15% legume incorporation levels. Rheological properties of porridge made of extrudate flour were evaluated using Rapid Visco Analyser (RVA). Maximum and minimum peak viscosity for rice extrudates alone and rice extrudates blended with 15% peas were 697 cp and 523 cp, respectively. There was a decreasing trend in degree of gelatinization with increase in legume incorporation level. Other RVA rheological parameters like trough break down and final viscosity were in the range of 266-226 cp, 431-297 cp and 452-375 cp respectively. Maximum values of protein, fat, fibre and ash contents were found in rice extrudates at 15% legumes blend levels. There was an increasing trend in nutrient contents with legume content in rice extrudates. Degree of gelatinization for rice alone extrudate was 29.4% and showed a decrease in gelatinization with increase in legumes extrudate and was minimum (22.4%) for rice blended with 15% dehulled green gram. Sensory evaluation scores for all extrudates showed the most acceptable range of 6 to 8. Thus, legume blend level (up to 15%) of dehulled legumes fetched good scores and showed promising trend for the production of low cost expanded extrudates and its instant flour.

Routine on-table cholangiography during cholecystectomy: a systematic review

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this review was to systemically analyse trials evaluating the efficacy of routine on-table cholangiography (R-OTC) versus no on-table cholangiography (N-OTC) in patients undergoing cholecystectomy.

METHODS

Randomised trials evaluating R-OTC versus N-OTC in patients undergoing cholecystectomy were selected and analysed.

RESULTS

Four trials (1 randomised controlled trial on open cholecystectomy and 3 on laparoscopic cholecystectomy) encompassing 860 patients undergoing cholecystectomy with and without R-OTC were retrieved. There were 427 patients in the R-OTC group and 433 patients in the N-OTC group. There was no significant heterogeneity among trials. Therefore, in the fixed effects model, N-OTC did not increase the risk (p=0.53) of common bile duct (CBD) injury, and it was associated with shorter operative time (p<0.00001) and fewer peri-operative complications (p<0.04). R-OTC was superior in terms of peri-operative CBD stone detection (p<0.006) and it reduced readmission (p<0.03) for retained CBD stones.

CONCLUSIONS

N-OTC is associated with shorter operative time and fewer peri-operative complications, and it is comparable to R-OTC in terms of CBD injury risk during cholecystectomy. R-OTC is helpful for peri-operative CBD stone detection and there is therefore reduced readmission for retained CBD stones. The N-OTC approach may be adopted routinely for patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy providing there are no clinical, biochemical or radiological features suggestive of CBD stones. However, a major multicentre randomised controlled trial is required to validate this conclusion.

Adverse drug reaction reporting in a pharmacovigilance centre of Nepal

BACKGROUND

Pharmacovigilance is the "science and activities relating to the detection, assessment, understanding and prevention of adverse effects or any other drug related problems". Nepal joined the international pharmacovigilance programme as a full member in 2007. KIST Medical College, Lalitpur, Nepal joined the national programme as a regional centre from mid-July 2008. Currently, the pattern and scope of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) in Nepal remains unexplored.

AIMS

To observe and analyse the pattern of ADRs at KIST Medical College, Lalitpur, Nepal.

METHOD

A retrospective analysis of all ADRs reported to the centre from mid July 2008 to July 2011 was performed. Data was analysed for ADR severity, causality, and preventability.

RESULTS

A total of 113 ADR reports were obtained from various clinical departments. The maximum number of reactions was due to antimicrobials, followed by anti-hypertensives and NSAIDs.

CONCLUSION

Antimicrobials were the commonest group of drugs causing ADRs and the most commonly seen ADR was maculopapular rash followed by diarrhea and vomiting.

Adverse drug reaction reporting in a pharmacovigilance centre of Nepal

BACKGROUND

Pharmacovigilance is the "science and activities relating to the detection, assessment, understanding and prevention of adverse effects or any other drug related problems". Nepal joined the international pharmacovigilance programme as a full member in 2007. KIST Medical College, Lalitpur, Nepal joined the national programme as a regional centre from mid-July 2008. Currently, the pattern and scope of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) in Nepal remains unexplored.

AIMS

To observe and analyse the pattern of ADRs at KIST Medical College, Lalitpur, Nepal.

METHOD

A retrospective analysis of all ADRs reported to the centre from mid July 2008 to July 2011 was performed. Data was analysed for ADR severity, causality, and preventability.

RESULTS

A total of 113 ADR reports were obtained from various clinical departments. The maximum number of reactions was due to antimicrobials, followed by anti-hypertensives and NSAIDs.

CONCLUSION

Antimicrobials were the commonest group of drugs causing ADRs and the most commonly seen ADR was maculopapular rash followed by diarrhea and vomiting.

Studies on hydrolytic and radiolytic stability of N,N,N´,N´-tetra-(2-ethylhexyl) thiodiglycolamide T(2EH)TDGA

Hydrolytic and radiolytic stability of T(2EH)TDGA solvent system has been investigated to establish its application in separation and recovery of palladium from High Level Liquid Waste (HLW) solutions. Hydrolysis of T(2EH)TDGA solvent system with nitric acid was not observed. Moreover, unlike other “S” donor extractants used for the said purpose, the oxidation of thioetheric sulphur to sulphoxide or sulphones was also not observed. However, radiolytic degradation was notably observed and found to increase with increase in absorbed dose. n-dodecane was found to sensitize the degradation of T(2EH)TDGA. At gamma radiation dose of 0.2 MGy, no significant loss of T(2EH)TDGA was observed. The degradation products were identified by GC-MS. The major products were found to be formed by cleavage of thioetheric and amidic bonds of T(2EH)TDGA molecule. The extraction studies of palladium with irradiated solvent indicate that with 0.025 M T(2EH)TDGA/n-dodecane, there was no significant change in D Pd up to an absorbed dose of 0.2 MGy above which it decreases significantly. However, with 0.05 M T(2EH)TDGA/n-dodecane, there is gradual decrease in D Pd with increase of absorbed dose. Further, the radiolysis does not affect the stripping behavior of palladium. Extraction studies of Pd(II) and other fission products from simulated high level liquid waste (SHLW) solutions to irradiated solvent system showed that, except palladium, any other element is hardly extracted thus retaining its remarkable selectivity.

Comparative therapeutic evaluation of different topicals and narrow band ultraviolet B therapy combined with systemic methotrexate in the treatment of palmoplantar psoriasis

Background:

The incidence of uncomplicated psoriasis is 1–3% in the general population. The involvement of palm and sole is seen in 7–14.5% of cases. There are different topicals and systemic therapies available for treating the case of psoriasis but none is satisfactory for longer duration.

Aim:

The study involved the comparative therapeutic evaluation of the different topical regimens and narrow band ultraviolet B (NB-UVB) therapy in combination with systemic methotrexate.

Materials and Methods:

The study was held in out-patient department of Skin, VD and Leprosy of B.R.D. Medical College, Gorakhpur, from July 2007 to December 2008. The group included 98 new cases of palmoplantar psoriasis. These cases were divided into eight groups according to the eight regimens involved in the study. The severity of psoriasis was assessed by the ESIF (erythema, scaling, induration and fissuring) score.

Results:

The study showed that all the regimens had significant response rates. The combination of NB-UVB with systemic methotrexate had maximum response rate (64.85±4.52%) that was statistically significant (paired “t” at 16d.f. = 33.329, P<0.001) with minimum number of recurrences after stopping the treatment. The combination of halobetasol ointment with systemic methotrexate also had significant response rate (paired “t” at 19d.f. = 13.5183, P<0.001) but had maximum number of cases with recurrence (70%) after stopping the treatment.

Conclusion:

These results suggest that the combination of every regimen with systemic methotrexate resulted in an early and a good improvement in the quality of life of patients suffering from psoriasis. It also shows that NB-UVB in combination with systemic methotrexate is more efficacious and has minimum recurrence rate and side effects in the treatment of palmoplantar psoriasis.

Nevirapine nanosuspensions for HIV reservoir targeting

In this paper we discuss, production, characterization and in-vivo evaluation of nevirapine nanosuspensions. Laser diffraction showed that the average particles size was 457 nm. Following single-dose administration, the plasma gamma concentration profiles showed fast release. Macrophage uptake studies confirmed enhanced cellular uptake for nanonized nevirapine with no added cytotoxicity. Gamma scintigraphy showed that the nanosuspension prepared can be used to target spleen, thymus and lungs, which represent anatomical viral reservoirs. Thus nevirapine nanosuspensions with targeting potential have been prepared successfully.

Flaxseed: a potential source of food, feed and fiber

Flaxseed is one of the most important oilseed crops for industrial as well as food, feed, and fiber purposes. Almost every part of the flaxseed plant is utilized commercially, either directly or after processing. The stem yields good quality fiber having high strength and durability. The seed provides oil rich in omega-3, digestible proteins, and lignans. In addition to being one of the richest sources of α-linolenic acid oil and lignans, flaxseed is an essential source of high quality protein and soluble fiber and has considerable potential as a source of phenolic compounds. Flaxseed is emerging as an important functional food ingredient because of its rich contents of α-linolenic acid (ALA), lignans, and fiber. Lignans appear to be anti-carcinogenic compounds. The omega-3s and lignan phytoestrogens of flaxseed are in focus for their benefits for a wide range of health conditions and may possess chemo-protective properties in animals and humans. This paper presents a review of literature on the nutritional composition of flaxseed, its health benefits, and disease-prevention qualities, utilization of flaxseed for food, feed, and fiber, and processing of flaxseed.

Stavudine entrapped lipid nanoparticles for targeting lymphatic HIV reservoirs

The main objective of present research study was to evaluate the potential of lipid nanoparticles for active delivery of an antiretroviral drug to lymphatic tissues. Stavudine entrapped drug loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) were prepared and characterized for a variety of physicochemical parameters such as appearance, particle size, polydispersity index and zeta potential. The targeting potential of the prepared nanoparticles was investigated by carrying out ex vivo cellular uptake studies in macrophages which depicted several times enhanced uptake as compared to pure drug solution. Further, the lymphatic drug levels and organ distribution studies demonstrated efficiency of the developed nanoparticles for prolonged residence in spleenic tissues. Thus it was concluded that stavudine entrapped lipid carriers can be exploited for effective and targeted delivery to cellular and anatomical HIV reservoirs and may ultimately increase the therapeutic safety and reduce side effects.

Study on disinfestation of pulses using microwave technique

Mortality of the pulse beetle (Callosobruchus chinensis L.) exposed, continuously, to microwave radiation (2450 MHz) was evaluated as a function of exposure time and percent power level, at adult stages. The microwave exposure time to attain 100% insect mortality at 100 %, 80%, 60%, 40%, and 20% power levels for Chickpea, Pigeon Pea and Green Gram was optimized. Effect of optimized microwave exposure time on viability, germination, cooking and milling characteristics of Chickpea, Pigeon Pea and Green Gram was also evaluated. Adult stage study was characterized by a distinct dose-exposure curve. The mortality curve was following third degree polynomial equation. The seed viability and germination of Chickpea, Pigeon Pea and Green Gram was affected by microwave exposure time and power level. It was observed that as the power level is decreasing the germination and viability of all the pulses are increasing. The effect on cooking and milling characteristics are not affected by microwave exposure time and power level. The insects in the mobile state were observed to move towards the surface from inside the nutrient medium during microwave exposure. They also curled up and in some cases aggregation was observed.

Effect of moisture content and residence time on dehulling of flaxseed

Effects of moisture content and residence time on various dehulling parameters of flaxseed including yield, hull, hullability, extraction rate and embryo (dehulled flaxseed) recovery were studied. A laboratory model rice polisher/ dehulling machine and a laboratory model aspirator were used for dehulling and aspiration (hull separation), respectively. The dehulling experiments were carried out for moisture contents ranging from 1.9 to 7.8% wb and residence times from 20 to 50 sec in dehulling machine at 2000 rpm of abrasive disc (rotor) of the polisher. Both moisture content and residence time played an important role in dehulling of flaxseed. The optimum moisture range and residence time for dehulling of flaxseed were 1.9 to 4.5% wb and 40 sec, respectively.

Studies on hydrolysis and radiolysis of tetra(2-ethylhexyl)diglycolamide (TEHDGA)/isodecyl alcohol/n-dodecane solvent system

To establish the use of TEHDGA/isodecylalcohol/n-dodecane solvent system for actinide partitioning from HLW, the hydrolytic and radiolytic stability of the solvent was investigated. Hydrolysis of TEHDGA with nitric acid at room temperature was not observed. Radiolytic degradation was observed and found to increase with increase in absorbed dose. It was found that the presence of n-dodecane enhances the degradation of TEHDGA whereas isodecyl alcohol, the phase modifier, has no such effect. At gamma-radiation dose as high as 0.2 MGy, no significant loss of TEHDGA was observed. The degradation products were identified by GC-MS, the main products were formed by cleavage of ether and amide bonds of TEHDGA molecule. The extraction behavior of Am(III) at 4.0 M HNO3 does not vary much with increase in absorbed dose, however stripping behavior is affected by the presence of acidic degradation products formed during radiolysis. The findings indicate that the solvent retains its expected extraction and stripping properties up to a high gamma-radiation dose of 0.2 MGy. Irradiated solvent was purified and made suitable for reuse by treating it with 5% w/v Na2CO3 solution, basic alumina and finally by distillation at reduced pressure.

Antidiabetic activity and phytochemical screening of crude extract of Stevia rebaudiana in alloxan-induced diabetic rats

BACKGROUND

Stevia rebaudiana regulates blood sugar, prevents hypertension and tooth decay. Other studies have shown that it has antibacterial as well as antiviral property.

METHODS

Preliminary phytochemical screening of aqueous, ether and methanolic extracts of S. rebaudiana was done. Acute and sub-acute toxicity were conducted on twenty four Albino rats, divided into one control (Group I) and three treatment groups viz. aqueous extract (Group II), ether extract (Group III) and methanolic extract (Group IV). For the study of antidiabetic effect of S. rebaudiana rats were divided into seven groups (n=6). Diabetes was induced by a single dose of 5% alloxan monohydrate (125 mg/kg, i.p.) after 24 hour fasting.Blood samples were analysed on day 0, 1, 5, 7, 14 and 28.

RESULTS

Phytochemical tests showed presence of different kinds of phyto-constituents in aqueous, ether and methanol extract of Stevia rebaudiana leaves. Daily single dose (2.0 g/kg) administration of aqueous extract (A.E.) , ether extract (E.E.) and methanol extract (M.E.) for 28 days of S. rebaudiana could not show any significant change in ALT and AST levels in rats. Blood sugar level was found to be decreased on day 28 in groups of rats treated with A.E., E.E. and M.E. of S. rebaudiana.

CONCLUSION

The extracts of Stevioside rebaudiana could decrease the blood glucose level in diabetic rats in time dependent manner.

Rectal dosimetry in intracavitary brachytherapy by HDR at rural center of Maharashtra: Comparison of two methods

The purpose of this study was to calculate the radiation dose at the anterior rectal wall as per the International Commission on Radiation Units and Measurements (ICRU 38) recommendations and compare it with the dose calculated by the commonly used intrarectal catheter. Dose delivery by brachytherapy to the cervix is limited by the critical structure of the bladder and rectum. In this study the ICRU-38 rectal point was derived by using a radio-opaque gauze piece on the posterior vaginal wall, and the intrarectal point was derived by inserting a rubber catheter with a wire, inside the rectum. A total of 146 applications were performed in 81 patients. Rectal doses were compared for complementary rectal points R1 and R5, R2 and R6, R3 and R7, and R4 and R8, obtained by both methods. The rectal doses at each complementary pair were compared with each other. The average dose at R1 was 5% higher than at R5 (60.57% vs. 55.57%). The average dose at R2 was 1% higher than at R6 (58% vs. 57%). The average dose at R3 was 1.29% higher than at R7 (52.71% vs. 51.42%), and the average dose at R4 was 1.15% higher than at R8 (43% vs. 41.85%). There were many instances where the rectal dose exceeded by more than 15%, from the R1 to R4 points (43, 22, 21, and 11 times, respectively, for R1-R5, R2-R6, R3-R7, and R4-R8 pairs). The difference in dose between R1 and R5 was significant as seen on the statistical tests, i.e., Pair T test, Wilcoxan Signed Ranks test, and Sign test (p value 0.002). The rectal dose obtained by the intrarectal wire method underestimates the actual dose to the rectum when compared to the ICRU-38 method. Thus ICRU-38 recommendations should be strictly adhered to, to reduce late complications.

Prevalence of dural ectasia in 63 gene-mutation-positive patients with features of Marfan syndrome type 1 and Loeys-Dietz syndrome and report of 22 novel FBN1 mutations

Marfan syndrome is an autosomal dominant disorder involving different organ systems. Marfan syndrome type 1 (MFS1) is caused by mutations in the FBN1 gene. Heterozygosity for mutations in the TGFBR1 or TGFBR2 genes cause Loeys-Dietz syndrome (LDS) types 2A and 2B that overlap with MFS1 in their clinical features. The phenotype of MFS1 is defined by the Ghent nosology, which classifies the clinical manifestations in major and minor criteria. Dural ectasia is one of the major criteria for Marfan syndrome but it is rarely tested for. We here report 22 novel and 9 recurrent mutations in the FBN1 gene in 36 patients with clinical features of Marfan syndrome. Sixty patients with identified mutations in the FBN1 gene and three patients with mutations in the TGFBR1 or TGFBR2 genes were examined for dural ectasia. Forty-seven of the 60 patients (78%) with MFS1 showed the dural ectasia criterion and 13 (22%) did not. Thirty-three (55%) patients were suspected of having Marfan syndrome and 24 (73%) of them had dural ectasia. Two of the three patients with LDS had dural ectasia.

Chemical warfare agents

Chemical warfare agents (CWA's) are defined as any chemical substance whose toxic properties are utilised to kill, injure or incapacitate an enemy in warfare and associated military operations. Chemical agents have been used in war since times immemorial, but their use reached a peak during World War I. During World War II only the Germans used them in the infamous gas chambers. Since then these have been intermittently used both in war and acts of terrorisms. Many countries have stockpiles of these agents. There has been a legislative effort worldwide to ban the use of CWA's under the chemical weapons convention which came into force in 1997. However the manufacture of these agents cannot be completely prohibited as some of them have potential industrial uses. Moreover despite the remedial measures taken so far and worldwide condemnation, the ease of manufacturing these agents and effectiveness during combat or small scale terrorist operations still make them a powerful weapon to reckon with. These agents are classified according to mechanism of toxicity in humans into blister agents, nerve agents, asphyxiants, choking agents and incapacitating/behavior altering agents. Some of these agents can be as devastating as a nuclear bomb. In addition to immediate injuries caused by chemical agents, some of them are associated with long term morbidities and psychological problems. In this review we will discuss briefly about the historical background, properties, manufacture techniques and industrial uses, mechanism of toxicity, clinical features of exposure and pharmacological management of casualties caused by chemical agents.

Spermicidal agents

In recent years, there is a development of vaginal contraceptives incorporating potent spermicides. Many compounds with different pharmacological activity have been evaluated in vitro for their spermicidal activity. Drugs such as surfaceactive agents (synthetic and natural), ionophores, antiliquefying agents, antimicrobial agents and miscellaneous agents such as gossypol, Azadirachta indica, vanadocenes have all been demonstrated to possess good spermicidal activity. Nonoxynol is the only spermicidal agent currently marketed and widely used. But there is still a need to develop alternative compounds for future use as safe spermicide.

Removal of Cr(VI) from aqueous solutions using agricultural waste 'maize bran'

Novel biosorbent 'maize bran' has been successfully utilized for the removal of Cr(VI) from aqueous solution. The effect of different parameters such as contact time, sorbate concentration, pH of the medium and temperature were investigated and maximum uptake of Cr(VI) was 312.52 (mgg(-1)) at pH 2.0, initial Cr(VI) concentration of 200mgL(-1) and temperature of 40 degrees C. Effect of pH showed that maize bran was not only removing Cr(VI) from aqueous solution but also reducing toxic Cr(VI) into less toxic Cr(III). The sorption kinetics was tested with first order reversible, pseudo-first order and pseudo-second order reaction and it was found that Cr(VI) uptake process followed the pseudo-second order rate expression. Mass transfer of Cr(VI) from bulk to the solid phase (maize bran) was studied at different temperatures. Different thermodynamic parameters, viz., DeltaG degrees , DeltaH degrees and DeltaS degrees have also been evaluated and it has been found that the sorption was feasible, spontaneous and endothermic in nature. The Langmuir and Freundlich equations for describing sorption equilibrium were applied and it was found that the process was well described by Langmuir isotherm. Desorption studies was also carried out and found that complete desorption of Cr(VI) took place at pH of 9.5.

Ex-Servicemen Medical Aid Group (ESMAG) : The Hidden Force

Natural calamities such as cyclones, floods and earthquakes are common occurrences in the Indian sub continent which require super human effort to contain damage to men and material. Such events put the dedication, endurance capabilities and organizational skills available in the country to a litmus test. It is not surprising therefore, that the Armed Forces are often asked to spearhead the relief work in such disaster situations. So far, the potential for utilization of disciplined and trained ex-servicemen population for such situations has remained untapped due to the lack of an organizational framework. A concept of tapping this large pool of trained manpower is presented.

Laparoscopic gastrectomy for gastric cancer: early experience among the elderly

BACKGROUND

The data are scarce on the outcome for elderly patients presenting with resectable gastric cancer in the West who have been treated with minimally invasive surgery. This report presents the authors' early experience with totally laparoscopic gastric resections for cancer in elderly patients.

METHODS

A total of 20 patients underwent laparoscopic gastrectomy procedures: 14 distal, 5 subtotal, and 1 total gastrectomy. The male-to-female ratio was 15 to 5. The ages ranged from 75 to 88 years (mean, 80 years).

RESULTS

All cases were managed laparoscopically with R0 resection. Four patients needed high-dependency unit care postoperatively. There were no perioperative deaths. The median time required for the procedure was 212 min, and time to diet was 4 days. The hospital stay was 8 days. Four patients experienced significant complications, with two patients requiring reoperation. The pathology was adenocarcinoma for 17 patients and high-grade dysplasia for 3 patients.

CONCLUSION

Among elderly patients for whom conventional gastric surgery carries a high morbidity and mortality risk, minimal access surgery may offer equivalent oncologic integrity but with superior safety and economy. The primary aim is to remove the tumor with at least a D1 lymphadenectomy.