The effect of mouth breathing on dentofacial morphology of growing child

BACKGROUND

The oral mode of respiration cause postural adaptations of structures in the head and neck region producing the effect on the positional relationship of the jaws.

AIM

The aim of this study is to verify the skeletal relationship of mouth and nose breathing child.

STUDY DESIGN

A cross sectional study was performed to assess the association of changed mode of respiration with dentofacial growth.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

One hundred children among which 54 were mouth breathers and 46 were nasal breathers of 6-12 years of age were submitted to clinical examination and cephalometric radiographical analysis. Statistical analysis : Chi-square test for proportions and independent sample's "t" test for parametric data is used.

RESULT

The mean values of N-Me (P<0.001) ANS-Me (P<0.001) and SN-GoGn (P<0.001) for mouth breathers is significantly higher. ArGo-GoMe (P=0.003) and (P<0.011) for 6-9 and 9-12 years age group, respectively, were significantly low in nasal breathers group.

CONCLUSIONS

Changed mode of respiration was associated with increased facial height, mandibular plane angle and gonial angle.

Serum lactate levels as the predictor of outcome in pediatric septic shock

Background and Aims:

An association of high lactate levels with mortality has been found in adult patients with septic shock. However, there is controversial literature regarding the same in children. The aim of this study was to find the correlation of serum lactate levels in pediatric septic shock with survival.

Settings and Design:

This was a prospective observational study at PICU of a tertiary care center of North India.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 30 children admitted to PICU with diagnosis of septic shock were included in the study. PRISM III score and demographic characteristics of all children were recorded. Serum lactate levels were measured in arterial blood at 0-3, 12, and 24 h of PICU admission. The outcome (survival or death) was correlated with serum lactate levels.

Results:

Septic shock was the most common (79.3%) type of shock and had 50% mortality. Initial as well as subsequent lactate levels were significantly higher in nonsurvivors. A lactate value of more than 45 mg/dl (5 mmol/l) at 0–3, 12, and 24 h of PICU admission had an odds ratio for death of 6.7, 12.5, and 8.6 (95% CI: 1.044–42.431, 1.850–84.442, 1.241–61.683) with a positive predictive value (PPV) of 38%, 71%, 64% and a negative predictive value (NPV) of 80%, 83%, and 83%, respectively.

Conclusions:

Nonsurvivors had higher blood lactate levels at admission as well as at 12 and 24 h. A lactate value of more than 45 mg/dl (5 mmol/l) was a good predictor of death.

Direct and selective spectrophotometric method for the determination of vanadium in steel, environmental and biological samples

A simple, direct and selective spectrophotometric method for determination of vanadium is described. The present methodology is based on the strong oxidizing power of vanadium (V). Vanadium (V) selectively oxidizes leucocrystal violet (LCV) to crystal violet in the presence of phosphoric acid. The violet colored dye obtained shows maximum absorbance at 590 nm. Beer's law is obeyed in the concentration range 0.06-0.6 μg ml(-1). The molar absorptivity and Sandell's sensitivity are found to be 6.78×10(4) l mol(-1) cm(-1) and 0.0044 μg cm(-2), respectively. The proposed method is simple, direct, and sensitive. It has been successfully applied for the determination of vanadium in various environmental, biological and steel samples.

Functionalization of tungsten oxide into MWCNT and its application for sunlight-induced degradation of rhodamine B

A composite of multi-walled carbon nanotube/tungsten oxide (MWCNT/WO(3)) has been successfully synthesized. The prepared composite was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The catalytic activity was investigated by rhodamine B degradation under solar irradiation. The influence of various degradation parameters such as solar illumination time, initial dye concentration, dosage and pH was investigated. It was found that the composite exhibits an enhanced photocatalytic activity as compared with WO(3) and a mechanical mixture of MWCNTs and WO(3). The enhancement in photocatalytic performance of the MWCNT/WO(3) composite has been explained based on adsorption ability and electron transportation as a result of a strong interaction between WO(3) and MWCNTs. Besides, MWCNTs acts as dispersing agent preventing WO(3) from agglomerating during the catalytic process, providing a high active surface area of the catalyst. A reasonable mechanism for the enhanced reactivity was proposed.

Electrochemical Analysis of Some Toxic Metals by Ion-Selective Electrodes

An overview of potentiometric sensors that are capable of detecting toxic heavy metal ions in environmental samples is presented and discussed. Notwithstanding the tremendous work performed so far, it is obvious that still several limitations do exist in terms of selectivity, limits of detection, dynamic ranges, applicability to specific problems, and reversibility. A survey on important advances in potentiometric sensors with regard to high selectivity, lower detection limit, fast response time, and on-line environmental analysis is presented in this review article. [Supplemental materials are available for this article. Go to the publisher's online edition of Critical Reviews in Analytical Chemistry to view the free supplemental file.].

Comparison and suitability of gel matrix for entrapping higher content of enzymes for commercial applications

To check the suitability of enzyme entrapped beads for use in pharmaceutical industry, amylase enzyme was entrapped in agar/agarose, polyacrylamide gels and calcium alginate beads. Sodium alginate of 1% concentration was found to be best with respect to immobilization efficiency and calcium alginate beads so obtained were not much susceptible to breakage. When sodium alginate- amylase mixture was added from a height of about 20-30 cm. into CaCl(2) solution, size of beads was large at higher alginate concentration due to the increase in the size of droplet formation before entering into CaCl(2) solution. Enzyme entrapped polyacrylamide and agar/agarose gels were fragile and could not withstand repeated use whereas enzyme entrapped in large calcium alginate beads was used successfully for 50 cycles for the conversion of starch into product without much damage to the beads under stirring conditions. Amylase preparation was also mixed with urease, lysozyme and coimmobilized in large sized calcium alginate beads. These beads were used for 10 repeated cycles to check the conversion of substrates into their products by their respective enzymes and we concluded that an enzyme or mixture of two or three enzymes can be immobilized in the same large sized calcium alginate beads. This will save the additional cost of bioreactor, manpower, maintenance conditions required for the conversion of one drug into another using enzyme/s entrapped in large sized beads.

Pesticides removal from waste water by activated carbon prepared from waste rubber tire

Waste rubber tire has been used for the removal of pesticides from waste water by adsorption phenomenon. By applying successive chemical and thermal treatment, a basically cabonaceous adsorbent is prepared which has not only a higher mesopore, macropore content but also has a favorable surface chemistry. Presence of oxygen functional groups as evidenced by FTIR spectra along with excellent porous and surface properties were the driving force for good adsorption efficiency observed for the studied pesticides: methoxychlor, methyl parathion and atrazine. Batch adsorption studies revealed maximum adsorption of 112.0 mg g(-1), 104.9 mg g(-1) and 88.9 mg g(-1) for methoxychlor, atrazine and methyl parathion respectively occurring at a contact time of 60 min at pH 2 from an initial pesticide concentration of 12 mg/L. These promising results were confirmed by column experiments; thereby establishing the practicality of the developed system. Effect of various operating parameters along with equilibrium, kinetic and thermodynamic studies reveal the efficacy of the adsorbent with a higher adsorption capacity than most other adsorbents. The adsorption equilibrium data obey Langmuir model and the kinetic data were well described by the pseudo-first-order model. Applicability of Bangham's equation indicates that diffusion of pesticide molecules into pores of the adsorbent mainly controls the adsorption process. Spontaneous, exothermic and random characteristics of the process are confirmed by thermodynamic studies. The developed sorbent is inexpensive in comparison to commercial carbon and has a far better efficiency for pesticide removal than most other adsorbents reported in literature.

Effect of cell and microvillus mechanics on the transmission of applied loads to single bonds in dynamic force spectroscopy

Receptor-ligand interactions that mediate cellular adhesion are often subjected to forces that regulate their detachment via modulating off-rates. Although the dynamics of detachment is primarily controlled by the physical chemistry of adhesion molecules, cellular features such as cell deformability and microvillus viscoelasticity have been shown to affect the rolling velocity of leukocytes in vitro through experiments and simulation. In this work, we demonstrate via various micromechanical models of two cells adhered by a single (intramolecular) bond that cell deformability and microvillus viscoelasticity modulate transmission of an applied external load to an intramolecular bond, and thus the dynamics of detachment. Specifically, it is demonstrated that the intermolecular bond force is not equivalent to the instantaneous applied force and that the instantaneous bond force decreases with cellular and microvillus compliance. As cellular compliance increases, not only does the time lag between the applied load and the bond force increase, an initial response time is observed during which cell deformation is observed without transfer of force to the bond. It is further demonstrated that following tether formation the instantaneous intramoleular bond force increases linearly at a rate dependent on microvillus viscosity. Monte Carlo simulations with fixed kinetic parameters predict that both cell and microvillus compliance increase the average rupture time, although the average rupture force based on bond length remains nearly unchanged.

Antepartum morbidities and health seeking behaviour among women in an urban slum of Delhi

A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the pattern of antepartum morbidities and its relationship with socio-economic, demographic characteristics and the health seeking behaviour among 214 women in an urban slum community of Delhi. Interviews were conducted in the households using a pretested semi-structured schedule. The age at marriage, age at co-habitation, and age at child-birth were below 18 years in 36.4%, 32.7%, and 5.1% respectively. The average number of antepartum morbidities per woman was 1.7. Commonest morbidities were: Urinary problems (11.2%), swelling over hands and feet (9.3%), fever > 3 days duration (7.5%), antepartum bleeding (7.0%), etc. The antepartum morbidities were found to be significantly higher among wives of illiterate (p = 0.01) husbands and of unskilled workers (p = 0.01). Out of 144 morbidities, consultation was sought for 101 morbidities (70.1%), mostly in a government hospital (78.2%). Main reasons for non-consultation among 43 women were: Non-availability of persons to accompany (32.6%), or to look after the children (23.3%) and feeling unnecessary to consult (23.3%). Study findings revealed the need for family support, sensitising men about women's health problems during pregnancy and education regarding identification of danger signs during pregnancy for reducing maternal morbidity and related mortality.

Chromium removal by combining the magnetic properties of iron oxide with adsorption properties of carbon nanotubes

The adsorption features of multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) with the magnetic properties of iron oxides have been combined in a composite to produce a magnetic adsorbent. Composites of MWCNT/nano-iron oxide were prepared, and were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). XRD suggests that the magnetic phase formed is maghemite and/or magnetite. FESEM image shows nano-iron oxides attached to a network of MWCNTs. The adsorption capability of the composites was tested in batch and fixed bed modes. The composites have demonstrated a superior adsorption capability to that of activated carbon. The results also show that the adsorptions of Cr(III) on the composites is strongly dependent on contact time, agitation speed and pH, in the batch mode; and on flow rate and the bed thickness in the fixed bed mode. Along with the high surface area of the MWCNTs, the advantage of the magnetic composite is that it can be used as adsorbent for contaminants in water and can be subsequently controlled and removed from the medium by a simple magnetic process.

A comparative investigation on adsorption performances of mesoporous activated carbon prepared from waste rubber tire and activated carbon for a hazardous azo dye--Acid Blue 113

A mesoporous carbon developed from waste tire rubber, characterized by chemical analysis, FTIR, and SEM studies, was used as an adsorbent for the removal and recovery of a hazardous azo dye, Acid Blue 113. Surface area, porosity, and density were determined. The adsorption of the dye over the prepared adsorbent and a commercial activated carbon was achieved under different pH, adsorbate concentration, sieve size, adsorbent dosage, contact time and temperature conditions. Langmuir and Freundlich adsorption isotherm models were applied and thermodynamic parameters were calculated. Kinetic studies indicated that the adsorption process follow first order kinetics and particle diffusion mechanisms are operative. By percolating the dye solution through fixed-bed columns the bulk removal of the Acid Blue 113 was carried out and necessary parameters were determined to find out the percentage saturation of both the columns. Recovery of the dye was made by eluting 0.1 M NaOH through the column.

A comparative study on PVC based sensors in determination of

The proposed work described the synthesis of neutral ionophores; 4,8-diaza-3,3,10,10-tetramethyl-1,2-dithiacyclodecane (S1), 5,8-diaza-3,3,10,10-tetramethyl-1,2 dithiacyclodecane-N,N''-diacetic acid (S2) and N,N''-bis(2,2-dimethyl-2-mercaptoethyl)ethylenediamine-N,N-diacetic acid (S3) used for comparative analysis in determination of molybdenum(v) as PVC-based membrane sensors. The best result was obtained with sensor no. 7 based on S3 ionophore with membrane composition (w/w, mg%); 5.0(S) : 30.0(PVC) : 5.0(KTpClPB) : 60.0(o-NPOE) showing a working range of 2.3 × 10-7-1.0 × 10-2 M with a detection limit of 1.2 × 10-7 M and a toleration of non-aqueous media up to 15% with slope of 11.7 mV/decade of activity. The sensor no. 7 can also be used to assess the Mo(v) concentration in different natural samples (water bodies, soils, root nodules and urine samples) with comparative analysis of ETAAS and spectrophotometric methods. The proposed sensor no. 7 can be used 2.5 months without any distortion in results after that leaching of ionophore was observed from the membrane phase in aqueous solutions of Mo(v). The proposed sensor has shown a good dynamic response time of 11 s.

Synthesis and characterization of alumina-coated carbon nanotubes and their application for lead removal

Alumina-coated multi-wall carbon nanotubes were synthesized and characterized by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and FTIR. They were used as an adsorbent for the removal of lead ions from aqueous solutions in two modes, batch and fixed bed. In the batch mode, experiments were carried out to investigate the effect of contact time, agitation speed, adsorbent dosage and solution pH on the removal of lead. The coated nanotubes exhibit better removal ability over uncoated. For fixed-bed columns, thickness of the layer and flow rate were investigated. Increasing the thickness and decreasing the flow rate enhanced the removal of lead. The prepared adsorbent displayed the main advantage of separation convenience when a fixed-bed column was used compared to the batch adsorption treatment.

Simultaneous determination of ramipril, ramiprilat and telmisartan in human plasma using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry

A rapid and sensitive liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry method has been developed and validated for the simultaneous determination of ramipril, ramiprilat and telmisartan in human plasma. The solid-phase extraction technique was used for the extraction of ramipril, ramiprilat and telmisartan from human plasma. Trandolaprilat and hydrochlorothiazide were used as the internal standards (ISs). Chromatography was performed on a Hypurity C18, 5 μm, 50 mm × 4.6mm column, with the mobile phase consisting of ammonium acetate and acetonitrile (in a 20:80 ratio), followed by detection using mass spectrometry. The method involves a simple reversed isocratic chromatography condition and mass spectrometry detection, which enables detection at sub-nanogram levels. The method was validated and the lower limit of quantification for ramipril, ramiprilat and telmisartan was found to be 0.1 ng mL(-1), 0.1 ng mL(-1) and 2 ng mL(-1), respectively. The mean recovery for ramipril, ramiprilat and telmisartan ranged from 90.1 to 104.1%. This method increased the sensitivity and selectivity; resulting in high-throughput analysis of ramipril, ramiprilat and telmisartan using two different ISs in a single experiment for bioequivalence studies, with a chromatographic run time of 1.5 min only.

Naga chilli: a potential source of capsaicinoids with broad-spectrum ethnopharmacological applications

Capsicum species are not only cultivated as vegetable and condiment crops but are also incorporated into a number of medicinal preparations in the ancient literature around the world. 'Naga chilli' or 'Bhoot Jolokia' (Capsicum chinense Jacq.) is a chilli variety indigenous to the northeast region of India and has been recognized as the hottest chilli in the world. It has also been used conventionally in treating various human ailments since time immemorial by the indigenous people of the northeast India. Despite being an important crop of the northeast India, the information on the biology and cultivation of Naga chilli is very scanty and scattered. The present article reviews the scientific literature on above aspects with particular emphasis on identifying the key regional issues which need to be addressed urgently by the policy makers in order to harness its potential as an important source of capsaicinoids. Further, an attempt has been made to collate the potential of capsaicinoids in various ethnopharmacological applications such as pain therapy, body temperature regulation, anti-obesity treatments, anticancer therapy and as antioxidant and antimicrobial agent. We anticipate that this literature analysis of traditional medicinal uses and experimental trials of Capsicum using modern scientific approaches shall provide a basis for suggesting important areas where sincere research efforts are warranted to bridge the gap between traditional medicinal knowledge and modern biomedical knowledge.

Adsorption and desorption studies on hazardous dye Naphthol Yellow S

In the present study, the batch technique was adopted under a variety of conditions, viz., amount of adsorbent, contact time, concentration, temperature and pH. By using UV spectrophotometer, concentration of dye was measured before and after adsorption. Dye removal data were fitted into the Langmuir and Freundlich adsorption isotherm equations. The values of their corresponding constants were determined. Thermodynamic parameters like free energy (DeltaG), enthalpy (DeltaH) and entropy (DeltaS) of the systems were calculated by using Langmuir constant. The estimated values for (DeltaG) were -8.027x10(3) and -28.46x10(3) kJ mol(-1) over activated carbon and activated de-oiled mustard at 303 K (30 degrees C), indicate toward a spontaneous process. The adsorption process followed pseudo-first-order model. The values of % removal and k(ad) for dye systems were calculated at different temperatures ranging (303-323 K). Desorption studies indicate that elution by dilute NaOH through the fixed bed of the adsorbents columns could be regenerated and a quantitative recovery of Naphthol Yellow S can be achieved.

Turn Around Time (TAT) as a Benchmark of Laboratory Performance

Laboratory analytical turnaround time is a reliable indicator of laboratory effectiveness. Our study aimed to evaluate laboratory analytical turnaround time in our laboratory and appraise the contribution of the different phases of analysis towards the same. The turn around time (TAT) for all the samples (both routine and emergency) for the outpatient and hospitalized patients were evaluated for one year. TAT was calculated from sample reception to report dispatch. The average TAT for the clinical biochemistry samples was 5.5 h for routine inpatient samples while the TAT for the outpatient samples was 24 h. The turnaround time for stat samples was 1 h. Pre- and Post-analytical phases were found to contribute approximately 75% to the total TAT. The TAT demonstrates the need for improvement in the pre- and post-analytical periods. We need to tread the middle path to perform optimally according to clinician expectations.

One-step purification and characterization of cellulase-free xylanase produced by alkalophilic Bacillus subtilis ash

The present study describes the one-step purification and characterization of an extracellular cellulase-free xylanase from a newly isolated alkalophilic and moderately thermophilic strain of Bacillus subtilis ASH. Xylanase was purified to homogeneity by 10.5-fold with ~43% recovery using ion-exchange chromatography through CM-Sephadex C-50. The purified enzyme revealed a single band on SDS-PAGE gel with a molecular mass of 23 kDa. It showed an optimum pH at 7.0 and was stable over the pH range 6.0-9.0. The optimum temperature for enzyme activity was 55 °C. The purified xylanase did not lose any activity up to 45 ºC, however, it retained 80% and 51% of its activity after pre-incubation at 55 ºC and 60 ºC, respectively. The enzyme obeyed Michaelis-Menton kinetics towards birch wood xylan with apparent K_m 3.33 mg/ml and V_max 100 IU/ml. The enzyme was strongly inhibited by Hg²⁺and Cu²⁺while enhanced by Co²⁺ and Mn²⁺. The purified enzyme could be stored at 4 ºC for six weeks without any loss of catalytic activity. The faster and economical purification of the cellulase-free xylanase from B. subtilis ASH by one-step procedure together with its appreciable stability at high temperature and alkaline pH makes it potentially effective for industrial applications.

Swine-origin influenza A (H1N1) in Indian children

BACKGROUND

Swine-origin influenza A H1N1 (S-OIV) has not been systematically studied in Indian children.

OBJECTIVES

To study the clinical characteristics, morbidity and mortality pattern in children with S-OIV infection.

METHODS

This prospective study was conducted during the 'containment phase' of the pandemic in New Delhi from 10 June to 5 August 2009. All children suspected of being infected by S-OIV were admitted to the isolation wards and clinically evaluated according to WHO guidelines. Nasal and throat swabs were collected immediately for real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Haemoglobin, total leucocyte and platelet counts and chest radiography were undertaken in all patients. Those who tested positive for S-OIV infection were treated with oseltamivir for 5 days in isolation wards.

RESULTS

Thirty-seven children fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Twenty-one tested positive for S-OIV by RT-PCR and 16 tested negative. Comparison of the clinical characteristics of the two groups showed that duration of cough was longer in children with S-OIV (p<0.03). Total leucocyte and lymphocyte counts were significantly less in the S-OIV group (p<0.001 and , 0.02, respectively). Oseltamivir-related gastritis was seen in 38% of children. All improved and were discharged.

CONCLUSION

S-OIV infection in Indian children had features similar to those of seasonal influenza. Lymphopenia is an important feature of S-OIV.

Supramolecular dynamics of thalidomide and its derivatives in water-sediment system

The contamination of drug residues, including chiral ones, is not acceptable in earth's ecosystem. The dynamicity of enantiomers of thalidomide and its derivatives (3-methyl thalidomide, 3-ethyl thalidomide, and 3-butyl thalidomide) was ascertained at supramolecular level in water-sediment system using solid phase extraction (SPE) and stereoselective HPLC. Enantiomeric separation of these drugs was carried out on Ceramosphere RU-2 (25 cm x 0.46 cm, particle size 50 microm) chiral column using pure ethanol (1.0 ml/min) as eluent at 230 nm detection. Retention times, capacity, separation, and resolution factors of the enantiomers of these drugs were in the range of 20.0-36.0, 2.08-3.93, 1.35-1.57, and 1.0-2.0 min, respectively. Percentage recoveries of the enantiomers in SPE were in the range of 90.0 to 95.0 in water-sediment system. Langmuir and Freundlich model were best fitted for dynamic equilibrium concentrations at different experimental parameters. Thalidomide and its derivatives follow first-order kinetics at dynamic equilibrium. The rate constants of chiral interconversions were 0.390 and 0.385 days(-1) for S- and R-enantiomers, respectively. The uptake of thalidomide by sediment is quite good and of endothermic nature indicating good self-purification capacity of the nature for such toxic species.

Removal and recovery of Chrysoidine Y from aqueous solutions by waste materials

This article describes the use of bottom ash [a power plant waste] and de-oiled soya [an agricultural waste] as effective adsorbents for the removal of a hazardous azo dye [Chrysoidine Y] from its aqueous solutions. This paper presents an experimental study and discussion of the adsorption characteristics of this dye on the two adsorbents. The adsorbents have been characterized, and also the effects of time, temperature, concentration, pH, and sieve size on the extent of adsorption have been evaluated. Batch adsorption measurements, kinetic studies, and column operations have been performed to elucidate the dye uptake capacity of the adsorbents. The monolayer adsorption capacities at 30 degrees C have been found from Langmuir analysis to be 7.27x10(-5) mol g(-1) and 3.35x10(-5) mol g(-1) for bottom ash and de-oiled soya, respectively. Adsorption kinetics experimental data are indicative of pseudo-second order kinetics during these processes. Column experiments indicate practical utility of the adsorbents for eradicating hazardous dyes from effluents. The recovery of the adsorbed dye from bottom ash and de-oiled soya, have been found to be 85% and 99%, respectively.

Comparative study on 2-amino-1,4-naphthoquinone derived ligands as indium (III) selective PVC-based sensors

The three different ligands (Q(2) to Q(4)) based on 2-amino-1,4-naphthoquinone (Q(1)), have been synthesized and explored as neutral ionophores for preparing polyvinyl chloride-based membrane sensors selective to indium (III). The addition of potassium tetrakis(4-chlorophenyl) borate and various plasticizers, viz., o-NPOE, DBP, DBBP, DOP and CN has been found to substantially improve the performance of the sensors. The best performance was obtained with the sensor no. 16 having membrane of ligand (Q(2)) with composition (%, w/w) ionophore Q(2) (3.0%):PVC (30.0%):o-NPOE (63.0%):KTpClPB (4.0%). This sensor exhibits Nernstian response with slope 19.8 mV/decade of activity in the concentration range 2.5 x 10(-7) to 1.0 x 10(-2) M indium (III), performs satisfactorily over wide pH range of (2.5-7.5) with a fast response time (10 s). The sensor was also found to work satisfactorily in partially non-aqueous media up to 20% (v/v) content of acetonitrile, ethanol and methanol. The proposed sensor can be used over a period of 3.5 months without significant drift in potentials. The quantitative application of sensor was also evaluated by comparative analysis of artificially made sea water with AAS.

First Report of Curvularia lunata Causing Root Rot of Strawberry in India

Diseased strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Dutch) plants were observed during semimonthly surveys in the Jammu District of Jammu and Kashmir State, India from November 2007 to May 2008. Symptoms included leaf wilt, necrotic roots, and plant death. Small pieces of symptomatic roots were cut from the junction of diseased and healthy tissue, surface sterilized in 0.1% mercuric chloride solution for 1 min, washed in three changes of sterile distilled water, and transferred to potato dextrose agar plates. Cultures were maintained in an incubator at 25 ± 1°C. Dark brown fungal colonies developed in a few days. Mycelium was septate, dark brown-to-blackish brown, and branched. Conidiophores were dark brown, unbranched and septate. Conidia were boat shaped or curved, dark brown, and four-celled with the two central cells larger than the terminal cells. Apical cells were light brown, rounded at the tips, slightly constricted at the base, and 19 to 30 × 9 to 14 μm. The pathogen was identified by the Indian Type Culture Collection, Division of Plant Pathology, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, India (ITCC Accession No. 6680-07) as Curvularia lunata (Wakkar) Boevijn. To conduct pathogenicity tests, 10 healthy runners of strawberry cv. Chandler were planted separately in sterilized pot mix containing loam soil, sand, and peat moss (1:1:1 vol/vol) and allowed to root for a month. Soil near the root zone was then removed to access roots that were gently injured by pricking with a sterilized needle. The soil was replaced after 20 ml of a conidial suspension of 10⁶ conidia/ml of one of the isolates was applied to the roots. Ten healthy strawberry plants grown in noninoculated soil served as controls. After inoculation, the plants were regularly watered. Symptoms similar to those observed in the field developed on all inoculated plants. Roots of the diseased plants turned brown and finally black. Noninoculated plants remained healthy. The pathogen was reisolated from roots of the diseased plants. Curvularia spp. are ubiquitous and are typically considered to be weak pathogens or saprophytes; however they have been reported as minor pathogens of several plants (1,2). Root rot of strawberry caused by Curvularia spp. has been reported (3), but to our knowledge, this is the first report of C. lunata (Wakkar) Boevijn causing root rot of strawberry in India. References: (1) F. C. Butler. Ann. App. Biol. 40:298, 1953. (2) C. F. Hodges and D. A. Campbell. J. Phytopathol. 143:639, 1995. (3) T. Watanabe et al. Phytopathology 67:1324, 1977.

Multi-scale simulation of L-selectin-PSGL-1-dependent homotypic leukocyte binding and rupture

L-selectin-PSGL-1-mediated polymorphonuclear (PMN) leukocyte homotypic interactions potentiate the extent of PMN recruitment to endothelial sites of inflammation. Cell-cell adhesion is a complex phenomenon involving the interplay of bond kinetics and hydrodynamics. As a first step, a 3-D computational model based on the Immersed Boundary Method is developed to simulate adhesion-detachment of two PMN cells in quiescent conditions. Our simulations predict that the total number of bonds formed is dictated by the number of available receptors (PSGL-1) when ligands (L-selectin) are in excess, while the excess amount of ligands influences the rate of bond formation. Increasing equilibrium bond length results in a higher number of receptor-ligand bonds due to an increased intercellular contact area. On-rate constants determine the rate of bond formation, while off-rates control the average number of bonds by modulating bond lifetimes. Application of an external pulling force leads to time-dependent on- and off-rates and causes bond rupture. Moreover, the time required for bond rupture in response to an external force is inversely proportional to the applied load and decreases with increasing off-rate.

Apparent hypocortisolism in an infant with prolonged hyperinsulinism

We report a case of transient hyperinsulinism with hypocortisolemia in a preterm small for date neonate with recurrent hypoglycemia and perinatal stress. Investigation revealed increased Insulin level with subnormal cortisol level even during hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia resolved by its own by 22nd day of life with normal insulin and cortisol level thereafter.

Biochemical markers of liver and kidney function are influenced by thyroid function-a case-controlled follow up study in Indian hypothyroid subjects

Thyroid hormones regulate the renal hemodynamics and basal metabolic rate of most cells. This hospital-based case-control study was done to evaluate the changes in biochemical markers of liver and kidney function in hypothyroid subjects before and after treatment. The study included 176 subjects randomly selected from Thyroid clinics. Serum T(3), T(4), TSH, Liver and Kidney Function tests were analysed using standard kits. Forty-six hypothyroid patients were re-evaluated 6 weeks after thyroxine substitution therapy. Hypothyroid subjects (n=80) showed significantly raised serum creatinine and uric acid levels as compared to euthyroid subjects (n=96). After 6 weeks of thyroxine replacement, serum creatinine and uric acid decreased significantly and were comparable to euthyroid group. A positive correlation of ALT, AST, uric acid, protein and albumin with TSH levels (p<0.05) and negative correlation of serum T(4) levels with ALT, AST, proteins (p<0.05) was observed in the hypothyroid group. Hypothyroidism results in reversible impairment of hepatorenal function.

Anti-allergic effects of herbal product from Allium cepa (bulb)

Allium cepa (Family Liliaceae) is a reputed Indian medicinal herb that is prescribed as an effective remedy for several ailments in the Ayurvedic system of medicine. The aim of this study was to evaluate its efficacy against various events responsible for Type I allergic reactions. A herbal fraction (ALC-02) from A. cepa (bulb) inhibited histamine release and attenuated intracellular calcium levels in Compound 48/80-induced rat peritoneal mast cells. It also prevented Compound 48/80-mediated systemic anaphylaxis while lowering histamine levels in plasma. ALC-02 suppressed carrageenan-induced rat paw edema. It inhibited eosinophil peroxidase activity and protein content in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) of ovalbumin-challenged mice. In this experiment ALC-02 also caused a substantial reduction in lipid peroxidation in BALF/lung tissue and augmented superoxide dismutase activity in lung tissue. ALC-02 suppressed erythrocytic lysis caused by Triton X-100. A significant quenching of 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical by ALC-02 was observed. The results have shown a promising anti-allergic profile of ALC-02 that could be attributed to its potential antihistaminic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities.

Effectiveness of HIV counseling services on knowledge, attitude, behavior and practice (KABP) among pregnant women attending PPTCT program

Counseling services is an important component of National AIDS Control Program which aims at creating awareness and promoting changes in reducing high risk behavior against HIV/AIDS. Pregnant women attending antenatal clinics are being counseled about HIV/AIDS under prevention of parent to child transmission (PPTCT) program. The objective of this study was to assess (KABP) regarding HIV/AIDS among pregnant women attending PPTCT program before and after counseling at Lok Nayak Hospital, New Delhi. A Quasi-experimental study was conducted. Data was collected by interviewing 600 pregnant women attending ANC clinic during May 2006 to May 2007 using a pre-test and post-test interview schedule. About 69.2% of the pregnant women had heard about AIDS before the counseling. Knowledge regarding mother to child transmission of HIV was 53.5%. 38.2% knew that mother to child transmission can be reduced by drugs. The knowledge of pregnant women about AIDS was significantly different in pre-test (mean score = 15.3) and post test (mean score = 35.6) (P < 0.0001). Attitude of study participants towards people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) indicated that individuals with HIV should be allowed to work (79.9%) and all commercial sex workers should compulsorily be tested for HIV (55.1%). There was significant difference between in pre-test and post-test attitude about PLWHA and HIV testing (p < 0.0001). The condom use among the study participants significantly improved after counseling (1.2% in pre-test and 58.6% after counseling) (p < 0.0001). Counseling services were effective in increasing knowledge and changes in attitude and behavior among pregnant women and the efforts needs to be sustained.

Hepatitis B and C virus infection in an urban slum of Northern India

A community based cross sectional study was conducted in an urban slum amongst males to assess the magnitude of Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections among males between 20-50 years of age. All of the 288 males who were contacted had agreed to participate in the study. However, the information could be collected from a total of 260 subjects, using a pretested, pre-coded schedule included sociodemographic characteristics. Serological tests were done for Hepatitis B and C. The data were analyzed using EPI-INFO 3.2.2. Proportion of persons tested serologically positive for Hepatitis B and C in the present study was observed to be 10.38% and 1.15%, respectively. Higher proportion for hepatitis B and C was observed amongst those Muslims, below 35 years of age, stay in the area for less than 5 years, Illiterates, unstable occupation, staying away from home and those with no history of blood transfusion or donation; however the difference was not statistically significant. There is a need to carry out more community based studies amongst such populations at risk in order to assess the true prevalence and risk factors for appropriate intervention.

Efficient diagnosis of tuberculous meningitis by detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis DNA in cerebrospinal fluid filtrates using PCR

Tuberculous meningitis (TBM) is the most devastating form of meningitis and prompt diagnosis holds the key to its management. Conventional microbiology has limited utility and nucleic acid-based methods have not been widely accepted for various reasons. In view of the paucibacillary nature of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and the recent demonstration of free Mycobacterium tuberculosis DNA in clinical specimens, the present study was designed to evaluate the utility of CSF 'filtrates' for the diagnosis of TBM using PCR. One hundred and sixty-seven CSF samples were analysed from patients with 'suspected' TBM (n=81) and a control group including other cases of meningitis or neurological disorders (n=86). CSF 'sediments' and 'filtrates' were analysed individually for M. tuberculosis DNA by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and conventional PCR. Receiver-operating characteristic curves were generated from qRT-PCR data and cut-off values of 84 and 30 were selected for calling a 'filtrate' or 'sediment' sample positive, respectively. Based on these, TBM was diagnosed with 87.6% and 53.1% sensitivity (P<0.001) in 'filtrates' and 'sediments', respectively, and with 92% specificity each. Conventional devR and IS6110 PCR were also significantly more sensitive in 'filtrates' versus 'sediments' (sensitivity of 87.6% and 85.2% vs 31% and 39.5%, respectively; P<0.001). The qRT-PCR test yielded a positive likelihood ratio of 11 and 6.6 by analysing 'filtrate' and 'sediment' fractions, respectively, which establishes the superiority of the 'filtrate'-based assay over the 'sediment' assay. PCR findings were separately verified in 10 confirmed cases of TBM, where M. tuberculosis DNA was detected using devR PCR assays in 'sediment' and 'filtrate' fractions of all samples. From this study, we conclude that (i) CSF 'filtrates' contain a substantial amount of M. tuberculosis DNA and (ii) 'filtrates' and not 'sediments' are likely to reliably provide a PCR-based diagnosis in 'suspected' TBM patients.

Assessment of quality of life among HIV positive people attending tertiary hospital of Delhi, India

As per global HIV/AIDS estimates, a total of 33 million [30.3 - 36.1 million] People were living with HIV in 2007. The world's second-most populous country, India, is experiencing a highly varied HIV epidemic, which appears to be stable or diminishing in some parts while growing at a modest rate in others. Quality of life (QOL) of HIV/AIDS patients is becoming an important component of overall assessment of health care and management in health care settings. It is one of the indicators effectiveness of management of PLHAS. The objective of this study was to determine the QOL of patients with HIV/AIDS in New Delhi. Purposive sampling was used to identify subjects from the antiretroviral therapy clinic (ART) in Lok Nayak hospital. 180 patients were interviewed with the WHOQOL-HIV instrument. This questionnaire included demographic data, multi-item scales and six domains namely physical, psychological, level of independence, social relationships, environment and spirituality religion. Study subjects were aged between 20-56 years. Mean age of all study subjects was 33.85 +/- 7.01 years, comprising of 34.4 females. More than 50% of the total subjects had received less than secondary school education. All domains have higher scores for women than men except the psychological domain. Correlation of scores of six domains with overall QOL score and among individual domains was statistically significant. Younger people showed poorer QOL and level of education correlated positively with all domains of QOL Overall results indicate that quality of life of AIDS attending Lok Nayak hospital is satisfactory.

Application of low-cost adsorbents for dye removal--a review

Dyes are an important class of pollutants, and can even be identified by the human eye. Disposal of dyes in precious water resources must be avoided, however, and for that various treatment technologies are in use. Among various methods adsorption occupies a prominent place in dye removal. The growing demand for efficient and low-cost treatment methods and the importance of adsorption has given rise to low-cost alternative adsorbents (LCAs). This review highlights and provides an overview of these LCAs comprising natural, industrial as well as synthetic materials/wastes and their application for dyes removal. In addition, various other methods used for dye removal from water and wastewater are also complied in brief. From a comprehensive literature review, it was found that some LCAs, in addition to having wide availability, have fast kinetics and appreciable adsorption capacities too. Advantages and disadvantages of adsorbents, favourable conditions for particular adsorbate-adsorbent systems, and adsorption capacities of various low-cost adsorbents and commercial activated carbons as available in the literature are presented. Conclusions have been drawn from the literature reviewed, and suggestions for future research are proposed.