Physical and thermochemical characterization of rice husk char as a potential biomass energy source

The fixed bed pyrolysis of rice husk was studied under conventional conditions with the aim of determining the characteristics of the charcoal formed for its applicability as a solid fuel. Thermoanalytic methods were used to determine the kinetic parameters of its combustion. Palletisation using different binders and techniques to improve the time of sustained combustion of the char pallets were investigated. The optimum temperature for carbonization to obtain a char having moderately high heating value was found as 400 degrees C. For the active char combustion zone, the order of reaction was nearly 1, the activation energy 73.403 kJ/mol and the pre-exponential factor 4.97 x 10(4)min(-1). Addition of starch as a binder and 10% ferrous sulphate heptahydrate or sodium hypophosphite as an additive enhanced the ignitibility of the char pallets.

Studies on Ocimum gratissimum seed mucilage: Evaluation of binding properties

Mucilage extracted from Ocimum gratissimum seeds, inertness and safety parameters established by a previous study was subjected to preformulation trial to assess its suitability as a pharmaceutical binder. Properties of the granules prepared with calcium carbonate using different concentrations of ocimum and compared with acacia (5%, w/w), as standard. Ocimum at 2.3% (w/w) level was found to be comparable with 5% (w/w) of acacia. Effect on drug release studied with paracetamol indicated that ocimum mucilage could be an alternative to acacia.

Inhibition of mucin secretion with MARCKS-related peptide improves airway obstruction in a mouse model of asthma

Allergic asthma is associated with airway epithelial cell mucous metaplasia and mucin hypersecretion, but the consequences of mucin hypersecretion on airway function are unclear. Recently, a peptide derived from the myristoylated alanine-rich C kinase substrate protein NH(2)-terminal sequence (MANS) was shown to inhibit methacholine (MCh)-induced mucin secretion from airway mucous cells by >90%. We studied the effect of intranasal pretreatment with this peptide on specific airway conductance (sGaw) during challenge with MCh in mice with allergen-induced mucous cell metaplasia. sGaw was noninvasively measured in spontaneously breathing restrained mice, using a double-chamber plethysmograph. Pretreatment with MANS peptide, but not a control peptide [random NH(2)-terminal sequence (RNS)], resulted in partial inhibition of the fall in sGaw induced by 60 mM MCh (mean +/- SE; baseline 1.15 +/- 0.06; MANS/MCh 0.82 +/- 0.05; RNS/MCh 0.55 +/- 0.05 cmH(2)O/s). The protective effect of MANS was also seen in mice challenged with allergen for 3 consecutive days to increase airway hyperresponsiveness, although the degree of protection was less (baseline 1.1 +/- 0.08; MANS/MCh, 0.65 +/- 0.06; RNS/MCh 0.47 +/- 0.03 cmH(2)O/s). Because routine sGaw measurement in mice includes nasal airways, the effectiveness of MANS was also confirmed in mice breathing through their mouths after nasal occlusion (baseline 0.92 +/- 0.05; MANS/MCh 0.83 +/- 0.06; RNS/MCh 0.61 +/- 0.03 cmH(2)O/s). In all instances, sGaw in the MANS-pretreated group was approximately 35% higher than in RNS-treated controls, and mucous obstruction accounted for approximately 50% of the MCh-induced fall in sGaw. In summary, mucin secretion has a significant role in airway obstruction in a mouse model of allergic asthma, and strategies to inhibit mucin secretion merit further investigation.

Aicardi syndrome: a report of five Indian cases

Five Indian cases of Aicardi syndrome, aged 1-13 years and all with the classic triad of infantile spasm, corpus callosal agenesis and chorioretinal lacunae, were presented. The purpose of this report was to demonstrate the clinical, electroencephalographic (EEG) and radiological spectrum and the treatment outcome of this disorder among the Indians. None of the patient had any family history of similar illness. All had profound psychomotor impairment with no meaningful speech development. There were microphthalmia in 2, optic disc coloboma in 1, interhemispheric cyst in 1, periventricular heterotopia in 2 and thoracolumbar kyphoscoliosis in 2 cases. They all had early onset epilepsy and there were multiple types of seizures. Two cases (40%) had the characteristic dissociated burst-suppression pattern in EEG. Two cases whose antiepileptic medications included vigabatrin had complete control of seizure.

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis

This study attempts to determine the clinical manifestations, severity and immunological features of JIA and its influence on growth and associated cardiac involvement in children below 16 years of age. This is a cross sectional study in a tertiary referral center on 50 consecutive children below the age of 16 years. Each patient was thoroughly examined and scored on Juvenile Arthritis Functional Assessment Scale. Relevant blood tests, cardiac and ophthalmic evaluation was done. Growth patterns were noted. There was an overall equal sex ratio, though there was a male preponderance in the systemic and oligoarthritis groups. Disturbance of growth frequently occurred in children suffering from JIA. Cardiac involvement should be looked for in cases of JIA. Significant number of cases of PSRA is diagnosed in children presenting with chronic arthritis.

Interleukin-10 promoter polymorphisms and atopic asthma in North Indians

BACKGROUND

IL-10 is an anti-inflammatory cytokine primarily produced by monocytes and macrophages and plays a key role in asthma. IL10 gene, present in chromosome 1q31-q32, is regulated primarily by transcription and its expression is found to be lower in asthmatics. Earlier studies in diverse populations have identified several promoter polymorphisms. However, no study has been carried out in a genetically untapped large population from the Indian Subcontinent.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association of the IL10 promoter polymorphisms and asthma in the North Indian population.

METHODS

The association study was conducted in a case-control as well as in a family-based design. Polymorphism at -1082 A/G, -819 C/T and -592 C/A nucleotides were genotyped in ethnically matched unrelated patients (N=272), unrelated controls (N=307) and nuclear families (N=164).

RESULTS

A suggestive evidence of association was obtained for -1082 A/G polymorphism at the level of alleles and genotypes with asthma in the case-control study (P=0.03). A three-locus haplotype (ATA) was found to be more in asthmatics than in control individuals (P=0.0085). On the other hand, a novel haplotype ATC was found to be more in controls than in asthmatics (P=0.012). These results were further tested in a family-based study. A deviation of transmission was observed for the -1082 A/G polymorphism (P=0.003). The ATA haplotype showed a preferential transmission in asthmatics (P=0.03), while the GCC and a novel ATC haplotype showed preferential non-transmission in asthmatic individuals (P=0.03 and 0.001, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Using both case-control and family studies, we provide suggestive evidence that the ATA haplotype is positively, whereas GCC and a novel ATC haplotypes of IL10 gene are negatively associated with asthma in Indian population. Our results are interesting enough as to intensify further research to elucidate the functional significance of these single-nucleotide polymorphisms and haplotypes in asthma pathogenesis.

A_16_C haplotype in the FcepsilonRIbeta gene confers a higher risk for atopic asthma in the Indian population

We conducted a case-control study aimed at identifying polymorphisms and haplotypes in the FcepsilonRIbeta gene associated with asthma and its associated phenotypes such as serum IgE levels. A G/A polymorphism in intron 2, a (CA)n repeat polymorphism in intron 5, and a C/T polymorphism in 3'-UTR, encompassing a length of 8.74 Kb, were genotyped, and haplotypes were generated for unrelated patients and healthy volunteers in two independent cohorts. A significant association was observed at the level of alleles and genotypes studied with asthma independently in the two cohorts (p < 0.05). A change in CC_AA genotype combination to a non-CC_AA genotype was associated with reduced risk for asthma. Interestingly, a three-locus haplotype, A_16_C, was found to be significantly associated with asthma (p = 10(-5) in cohort A and p = 0.004 in cohort B). On the other hand, the haplotype G_18_T was found to be negatively associated with asthma (p = 0.007 in cohort A and p = 0.0004 in cohort B). This is the first study identifying a haplotype A_16_C that predisposes individuals to asthma in the Indian population.

Primary neurological manifestations of lung cancer--a retrospective analysis of 8 patients

Neurological manifestations are reported in 5 to 10% of cases of lung cancer. We present a series of 216 consecutive patients of lung cancer of which 8 patients presented first with neurological manifestations without overt respiratory symptoms. The present study aimed to identify the number of patients of lung cancer presenting with primary neurological symptoms, the nature of the presentations, and the outcome of these patients among 216 patients who presented over a 2 year period in the Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Kolkata. Out of 8 patients, 3 patients presented with seizures, 3 patients with hemiparesis and 2 patients with paraparesis. Thus, 3.7% (8/216) of patients in our series presented with a neurological manifestation. We concluded that primary neurological manifestations are rare in lung cancer. The lungs should be the first site of evaluation in a case of a cerebral metastasis with an unknown primary.

Diffuse interstitial skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) in type 2 diabetes

A 58 years type 2 diabetic woman, school teacher by profession, presented with backache, neck pain and generalised weakness since last few months. Pain was mild with stiffness and neck pain was particularly associated with extension of the neck towards back. There was no focal neurological deficit on central nervous system examination. X-ray of lumbo- sacral spine showed prolific osteophytes and new bone formation in the body of lumbar vertebrae. Cervical X-ray showed 'Melting candle-wax' appearance at the anterior to the cervical vertebrae. In view of clinical and radiological association the case was diagnosed as DISH syndrome. It is being presented for its rarity.

Electrical properties of Fe-Fe3O4-SiO2 gel nanocomposites

Nanocomposites containing Fe3O4 and alpha-Fe, respectively, in a SiO2 gel were prepared by subjecting a suitably chosen gel with iron ions to a reduction treatment at 923 K, followed by wet oxidation at the same temperature for 1 hour. The particle sizes of the two phases were estimated to have values in the range of 18 to 25 nm. The dc conductivity of the composites was found to arise due to a variable range hopping mechanism with a density of states calculated as approximately 10(18) eV(-1) cc(-1). The nanoparticles of alpha-Fe are believed to contribute to the latter. The ac conductivity variation as a function of frequency and temperature could be explained because of an overlapping small polaron tunneling mechanism in the Fe3O4 nanoparticles. The density of states estimated in the latter case was approximately 10(18) eV(-1) cc(-1). From the dielectric modulus spectra of the nanocomposites, a Kohlrausch-Williams-Watts (KWW) exponent of approximately 0.30 was extracted. This indicated the presence of a wide distribution of relaxation times in the system.

The root: a potential new source of competent cells for high-frequency regeneration in Tylophora indica

The purpose of this study was to develop a new micropropagation system for Tylophora indica, an important medicinal plant in India, using root explants as starting material. Root explants cultured on MS medium supplemented with 6-benzyladenine (BA) or 2-isopentyladenine (2iP) produced organogenic nodular meristemoids (NMs) within 4 weeks. NMs induced from the cut ends of root segments showed two types of organogenic response--direct shoot bud formation and somatic embryogenesis--when maintained on induction medium. In 42% of the explants, NMs developed shoot buds directly in the presence of 10.72-26.80 microM BA. On average, 18.5 +/- 0.7 shoots per gram of NM tissue were obtained after each 4-week subculture. Elongation of microshoots and root initiation were correlated with the auxin used, with the optimal response occurring in the presence of 28.54 microM indole-3-acetic acid. In 39% of the explants, NMs dedifferentiated into friable embryogenic callus (FEC) in the presence of BA or 2iP after 12 weeks of culture. Of the different treatments, MS medium supplemented with 10.72 microM BA was the most effective in inducing FEC and somatic embryogenesis: at this concentration 64% of the cultured NMs developed FEC and, on the same medium, 89% of the FEC produced globular somatic embryos (SEs). FEC biomass increased nearly five-fold with every 4-week subculture, and about 30 SEs were recovered per gram of FEC during this period. The best conversion of mature SEs to complete plantlets was obtained on basal MS medium-42%. Plantlets derived via somatic embryogenesis and shoot organogenesis were successfully hardened (88-96%) and transferred to the field.

Canscora decussata (Roxb.) Schult (Gentianaceae) inhibits LPS-induced expression of ICAM-1 and E-selectin on endothelial cells and carageenan-induced paw-edema in rats

Inflammation is characterized pathologically by an increased supply of blood to the affected area, vasodilation, and infiltration of phagocytic, monocytic, and polymorphonuclear cells into the site of inflammation. The infiltration of leukocytes is in part regulated by the increased expression of cell adhesion molecules viz. ICAM-1 and E-selectin on endothelial cells. We investigated the effect of ethanolic extract prepared from plant Canscora decussata on expression of ICAM-1 and E-selectin on endothelial cells. Our results demonstrated that treatment of human endothelial cells with the extract down-regulated the LPS-induced expression of ICAM-1 and E-selectin. To study further the anti-inflammatory activity of the extract, we evaluated its effect in a rat model of carageenan-induced paw-edema. Our results showed that the extract was able to reduce the edema formation in a dose-dependent manner. These results, therefore, indicate that Canscora decussata extract could be useful towards developing effective anti-inflammatory agent(s) in the future.

X-linked Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease with myokymia: report of a family

The clinical and electrophysiologic profiles of two brothers suffering from Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease are presented. Both had widespread muscle twitching in the legs which showed electrophysiologic features of myokymia. Pedigree analysis suggested an x-linked recessive form of inheritance. This appears to be the first report of an Indian family with x-linked Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease.

Prediction of perinatal asphyxia with nucleated red blood cells in cord blood of newborns

OBJECTIVE

To determine normal level of nucleated red blood cells (NRBC) per 100 white blood cells (WBC) in cord blood of term non-asphyxiated newborns and to investigate variations in NRBC counts in perinatal asphyxia.

METHODS

A total of 75 cases were studied. Levels of NRBC per 100 WBC in umbilical venous blood were compared between 26 asphyxiated newborns (group I) and 49 non-asphyxiated newborns (group II). Correlation with neonatal outcome was also evaluated.

RESULTS

The mean (+/-S.D.) NRBC per 100 WBC level in umbilical blood of newborns in group I was 16.5+/-6.4, range 3-25; whereas that in group II was 8.6+/-7.01, range 1-26. This difference was statistically significant (P<0.001). A statistically significant negative correlation existed between NRBC level and markers of acute intrapartum asphyxia, Apgar score and umbilical arterial pH (r=-0.50, P<0.001 and r=-0.48, P<0.001, respectively). Positive correlation was demonstrated with evidence of chronic antepartum asphyxia, presence of pregnancy induced hypertension and intrauterine growth restriction (r=2.66, P=0.02). A high NRBC count in umbilical blood correlated with poor early neonatal outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

The level of NRBC per 100 WBC correlates both with acute as well as chronic antepartum asphyxia. Further, it can be used as a reliable index of early neonatal outcome.

Luteolin alleviates bronchoconstriction and airway hyperreactivity in ovalbumin sensitized mice

OBJECTIVE AND DESIGN

Asthma is an inflammatory disease of the airways and the current focus in managing asthma is the control of inflammation. In this study, we attempted to investigate the anti-asthmatic potential of a plant derived natural compound, luteolin.

MATERIAL

We used a murine model of airway hyperreactivity, which mimicked some of the characteristic features of asthma. Male BALB/c mice (8-9 weeks) were used for this study.

TREATMENT

Mice (n = 6) were sensitized by intraperitoneal (i. p.) injection of 10 mg of ovalbumin (OVA) on days 0, 7 and 14 followed by aerosol inhalation (5% OVA) treatments daily beginning from day 19 to day 23. To study its preventive effect, luteolin (0.1, 1.0, and 10 mg/kg body weight; daily) was administered orally during the entire period (0 to 23 day) of sensitization. To study its curative effect, mice were first sensitized and then luteolin (1.0 mg/kg body weight daily) was given orally from day 26 to 32. The airway hyperreactivity, immunoglobulin E (IgE) in the sera, and cytokines (IFN-gamma, IL-4 and IL-5) in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were measured.

RESULTS

Both during sensitization and after sensitization, luteolin, at a dose of 0.1 mg/kg body weight, significantly modulated OVA-induced airway bronchoconstriction and bronchial hyperreactivity (p < 0.05). Luteolin also reduced OVA-specific IgE levels in the sera, increased interferon gamma (IFN-gamma) levels and decreased the interleukin-4 (IL-4) and interleukin-5 (IL-5) levels in the BALF.

CONCLUSION

Our study showed that luteolin treatment during and after sensitization significantly attenuated the asthmatic features in experimental mice. Therefore, luteolin could be used either as a lead molecule to identify an effective antiasthma therapy or as a means to identify novel anti-asthma targets.

Cerebrospinal fluid and serum carcinoembryonic antigen in brain tumors

Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) has been indicated to be a marker for brain tumors. In this study CEA was measured in serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of 14 patients with benign brain lesions, 16 with primary brain tumors and 8 with metastatic brain tumors by radioimmuno assay. Tumor cyst fluid CEA of 6 patients having intracranial tumors was also measured. The control group (n=20) had no neurological disease. The mean CEA levels in CSF for the control group, patients with benign tumors, primary tumors and metastatic tumors were 0.22 ng/ml, 0.31 ng/ml, 0.92 ng/ml, and 6.3 ng/ml respectively. Corresponding serum CEA levels were 2.5, 2.7, 3.0 and 5.2 ng/ml. Results showed that CEA level in CSF may play an important role in differential diagnosis of primary and metastatic brain tumors and consequently management of the treatment. To our knowledge this is the first such study on brain tumors from India.