Biosorption of hexavalent chromium by raw and acid-treated green alga Oedogonium hatei from aqueous solutions

The hexavalent chromium, Cr(VI), biosorption by raw and acid-treated Oedogonium hatei were studied from aqueous solutions. Batch experiments were conducted to determine the biosorption properties of the biomass. The optimum conditions of biosorption were found to be: a biomass dose of 0.8 g/L, contact time of 110 min, pH and temperature 2.0 and 318 K respectively. Both Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm equations could fit the equilibrium data. Under the optimal conditions, the biosorption capacities of the raw and acid-treated algae were 31 and 35.2 mg Cr(VI) per g of dry adsorbent, respectively. Thermodynamic parameters showed that the adsorption of Cr(VI) onto algal biomass was feasible, spontaneous and endothermic under studied conditions. The pseudo-first-order kinetic model adequately describe the kinetic data in comparison to second-order model and the process involving rate-controlling step is much complex involving both boundary layer and intra-particle diffusion processes. The physical and chemical properties of the biosorbent were determined and the nature of biomass-metal ions interactions were evaluated by FTIR analysis, which showed the participation of -COOH, -OH and -NH(2) groups in the biosorption process. Biosorbents could be regenerated using 0.1 M NaOH solution, with up to 75% recovery. Thus, the biomass used in this work proved to be effective materials for the treatment of chromium bearing aqueous solutions.

Impact of health education intervention on knowledge and community action for malaria control in Delhi

Malaria affects millions of people in India despite decades of efforts to control it. It has acquired greater importance in last two decades due to emergence of vector resistance, poor quality of care and low utilization of services. The study was conducted to improve the management of malaria by IEC and training activities in slum areas of Delhi. The baseline and post intervention data on knowledge, attitude, behavior and practices (KABP) regarding malaria was collected from 601 and 593 subjects respectively from two zones of Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD). At the same time, knowledge and skills regarding management of malaria were assessed among 15 health workers working in these two zones of MCD. An intervention package in the form of health education material for the community and training modules for the workers were designed and implemented. Post intervention data were collected. The knowledge about cause of malaria, season of malaria and breeding places of mosquito increased among community members after the intervention, which was found to be statistically significant. Similarly, more people were aware about the methods of prevention of mosquito breeding after the intervention. Methods like mosquito coil (post-64.92% vs pre-55.41%) and bet nets (post-24.96% vs pre-14.47%) were used by more people in post intervention phase. The Interval between onset of symptoms and seeking treatment decreased after the intervention from 1.66 days to 1.37 days. Among the workers, knowledge and skills regarding malaria management improved after the intervention. More blood slides were made, side effects of the treatment were explained to the patients and better compliance to treatment was observed in post intervention phase. IEC activities using attractive pamphlets to the community and on-job training of workers improves management of malaria and should be used more frequently more so in the slum areas for the success of the National Anti-Malaria Program.

Individual and combined effects of fumonisin b1 and moniliformin on clinicopathological and cell-mediated immune response in Japanese quail

A total of 390 one-day-old quail chicks (Coturnix coturnix japonica) were divided into 4 groups (3 replicates per treatment), viz. CX, FX, MX, and FM, containing 75, 105, 105, and 105 birds, respectively. Birds in the control group (CX) were fed quail mash alone, whereas birds in group FX were fed 200 ppm of fumonisin B(1) (FB(1)) from Fusarium verticillioides culture material; group MX was fed 100 ppm of moniliformin (M) from Fusarium fujikuroi culture material; and group FM was fed a combination of 200 ppm of FB(1) and 100 ppm of M. Diets were fed from d 1 to 35 to study clinical signs, growth response, serum biochemical changes, and cell-mediated immune response. Birds fed FB(1) (FX) showed ruffled feathers and poor growth. Birds in group MX appeared more stunted than those in group FX and exhibited signs of poor feathering and decreased feed and water intake. Clinical signs observed in group FM were more or less similar to those observed in groups FX and MX. Total mortality was 12.38, 7.62, and 20.95% for groups FX, MX, and FM, respectively. Mean BW in groups FX, MX, and FM were significantly lower than those in the control group (CX) at almost all intervals. Total serum proteins, albumin, cholesterol, aspartate transaminase, lactate dehydrogenase, and creatine kinase values were higher in all treatment groups compared with the control group. Cell-mediated immune response was more or less comparable in groups CX and MX, whereas the presence of FB(1) in the diet of groups FX and FM was found to be associated with a gradual increase in skin thickness, and the mononuclear inflammatory cell response was poor as compared with groups CX and MX throughout the study. Except for mortality (additive effect) and serum aspartate transaminase values (less than an additive effect up to 14 DPF), no additive or synergistic effects were observed for any of the other response variables measured in the current study, where all statistical differences were attributed to either one mycotoxin or the other.

Sorption and desorption studies of chromium(VI) from nonviable cyanobacterium Nostoc muscorum biomass

This communication presents results pertaining to the sorptive and desorptive studies carried out on chromium(VI) removal onto nonviable freshwater cyanobacterium (Nostoc muscorum) biomass. Influence of varying the conditions for removal of chromium(VI), such as the pH of aqueous solution, the dosage of biosorbent, the contact time with the biosorbent, the temperature for the removal of chromium, the effect of light metal ions and the adsorption-desorption studies were investigated. Sorption interaction of chromium on to cyanobacterial species obeyed both the first and the second-order rate equation and the experimental data showed good fit with both the Langmuir and freundlich adsorption isotherm models. The maximum adsorption capacity was 22.92 mg/g at 25 degrees C and pH 3.0. The adsorption process was endothermic and the values of thermodynamic parameters of the process were calculated. Various properties of the cyanobacterium, as adsorbent, explored in the characterization part were chemical composition of the adsorbent, surface area calculation by BET method and surface functionality by FTIR. Sorption-desorption of chromium into inorganic solutions and distilled water were observed and this indicated the biosorbent could be regenerated using 0.1 M HNO3 and EDTA with upto 80% recovery. The biosorbents were reused in five biosorption-desorption cycles without a significant loss in biosorption capacity. Thus, this study demonstrated that the cyanobacterial biomass N. muscorum could be used as an efficient biosorbent for the treatment of chromium(VI) bearing wastewater.

General practitioners' knowledge of childhood asthma in Delhi, India

OBJECTIVE

To assess knowledge of childhood asthma among general practitioners (GPs) in Delhi, India.

DESIGN

In this cross-sectional study, a total of 157 GPs were interviewed using a validated questionnaire, including six questions of local and social relevance. A response rate of 78.5% was obtained.

RESULTS

Although the GPs who participated in the study had adequate knowledge of the importance of appropriate treatment, the safety of inhalers/oral steroids and the role of medicines in the prevention of frequent asthma attacks, the majority lacked knowledge of symptomatology, exercise-induced asthma and inhaled corticosteroids. GPs with >5 years of practice were more likely to have significantly less knowledge about preventive drugs, certain aspects of treatment of acute asthma and misconceptions, such as 'drinking milk increases mucus production' or 'children with asthma should not consume dairy products, chilled drinks, sour or chilled food'. On the other hand, GPs with < or =5 of practice had misconceptions such as 'children with asthma have abnormally sensitive airways' and 'asthmatic children develop dependence on inhalers'.

CONCLUSIONS

The gaps in knowledge about asthma and its management highlight the need to design well-structured educational strategies for health professionals.

Equilibrium and kinetic modelling of cadmium(II) biosorption by nonliving algal biomass Oedogonium sp. from aqueous phase

The biosorption of cadmium(II) ions on Oedogonium sp. is studied in a batch system with respect to initial pH, algal dose, contact time and the temperature. The algal biomass exhibited the highest cadmium(II) uptake capacity at 25 degrees C, at the initial pH value of 5.0 in 55 min and at the initial cadmium(II) ion concentration of 200 mg L(-1). Biosorption capacity decreased from 88.9 to 80.4 mg g(-1) with an increase in temperature from 25 to 45 degrees C at this initial cadmium(II) concentration. Uptake kinetics follows the pseudo-second-order model and equilibrium is well described by Langmuir isotherm. Isotherms have been used to determine thermodynamic parameters of the process, viz., free energy change, enthalpy change and entropy change. FTIR analysis of algal biomass revealed the presence of amino, carboxyl, hydroxyl and carbonyl groups, which are responsible for biosorption of metal ions. Acid pretreatments did not substantially increase metal sorption capacity but alkali like NaOH pretreatment slightly enhanced the metal removal ability of the biomass. During repeated sorption/desorption cycles at the end of fifth cycle, Cd(II) sorption decreased by 18%, with 15-20% loss of biomass. Nevertheless, Oedogonium sp. appears to be a good sorbent for removing metal Cd(II) from aqueous phase.

Frequency of Helicobacter pylori and CagA antibody in patients with gastric neoplasms and controls: the Indian enigma

BACKGROUND

Despite association between H. pylori and gastric neoplasm (GN) from the developed world, studies from India, where infection is more common and acquired early, are scant and contradictory.

METHODS

Two hundred and seventy-nine patients with GN from two northern and one eastern Indian centers during the period 1997-2005, 101 non-ulcer dyspepsia (NUD), and 355 healthy volunteers (HV) were evaluated for H. pylori [rapid urease test (RUT), histology and anti-H. pylori, and CagA IgG serology].

RESULTS

Patients with GN [263 gastric carcinoma and 16 (6%) primary gastric lymphoma, 208 male] were older than HV (n = 355, 188 male) and NUD (n = 101, 54 male) patients (53 +/- 12 versus 44 +/- 17 and 43 +/- 13 years, respectively; P < 0.001). Eastern Indian patients with GN (n = 145) were younger than those from northern India (n = 134; 52 +/- 12 versus 55 +/- 12 years; P < 0.007, t-test). In GN and NUD patients H. pylori positivity by RUT [86/225 (38%) versus 46/101 (46%)], anti-H. pylori IgG [154/198 (78%) versus 85/101 (84%)], and histology [136/213 (64%) versus 55/101 (55%)] were comparable (chi(2)-test). Serum IgG anti-H. pylori antibody was more common among HV than among GN patients [300/355 (85%) versus 154/198 (78%); P = 0.04, chi(2)-test]. Intestinal metaplasia was more common in GN than in NUD patients [101/252 (40%) versus 2/98 (2%), P < 0.000, chi(2)-test]. CagAIgG was more common in GN than in NUD patients [124/163 (76%) versus 64/101 (63%)] but comparable to that in HV patients [87/98 (89%), P = NS].

CONCLUSION

Frequency of H. pylori as detected using endoscopy and serology-based tests is not higher among patients with GN as compared with controls in India.

Biosorption of lead from aqueous solutions by green algae Spirogyra species: kinetics and equilibrium studies

Biosorption is the effective method for the removal of heavy metal ions from wastewaters. Results are presented showing the sorption of Pb(II) from solutions by biomass of commonly available, filamentous green algae Spirogyra sp. Batch experiments were conducted to determine the biosorption properties of the biomass and it was observed that the maximum adsorption capacity of Pb(II) ion was around 140mgmetal/g of biomass at pH 5.0 in 100min with 200mg/L of initial concentration. Temperature change in the range 20-40 degrees C affected the adsorption capacity and the nature of the reaction was found to be endothermic in nature. Uptake kinetics follows the pseudo-second-order model and equilibrium is well described by Langmuir isotherm. Isotherms have been used to determine thermodynamic parameters of the process, viz., free energy change, enthalpy change and entropy change. Various properties of the algae, as adsorbent, explored in the characterization part were chemical composition of the adsorbent, thermal analysis by TGA, surface area calculation by BET method, surface morphology with scanning electron microscope images and surface functionality by FTIR. FTIR analysis of algal biomass revealed the presence of amino, carboxyl, hydroxyl and carbonyl groups, which are responsible for biosorption of metal ions. The results indicated that the biomass of Spirogyra sp. is an efficient biosorbent for the removal of Pb(II) from aqueous solutions.

Determination of nebivolol and valsartan in a fixed-dose combination by liquid chromatography

An accurate and reproducible liquid chromatographic assay method was developed and validated for the determination of nebivolol and valsartan in a capsule formulation. Buffer-acetonitrile (55 + 45, v/v) was used for reversed-phase liquid chromatography to determine the contents of nebivolol and valsartan in the combination-capsule dosage form. The method was validated by determining parameters such as specificity, linearity, limits of detection and quantitation, precision, accuracy, and robustness. The method was found to be specific against placebo interference. Linearity was evaluated over the concentration ranges of 2-8 micro/mL for nebivolol and 32-128 microg/mL for valsartan (the correlation coefficient was 0.9999 for both nebivolol and valsartan). Both the intraday and interday precision values of the system and the method were determined. The accuracy of the method ranged from 100.66 to 102.58% for nebivolol and from 101.17 to 101.85% for valsartan. The proposed method was found to be robust when slight but deliberate changes were made in the analytical conditions. The developed method was found suitable for the assay determination of nebivolol and valsartan in a capsule formulation.

Process development for the batch and bulk removal and recovery of a hazardous, water-soluble azo dye (Metanil Yellow) by adsorption over waste materials (Bottom Ash and De-Oiled Soya)

Bottom Ash and De-Oiled Soya have been used as adsorbents for the removal of a hazardous azo dye-Metanil Yellow from its aqueous solutions. Adsorption of Metanil Yellow on these adsorbents has been studied as function of time, temperature, concentration and pH. Batch adsorption studies, kinetic studies and column operations enabled extraction of lethal dye from wastewaters. Adsorption equilibrium data confirms both Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models and monolayer coverage of dye over adsorbents. Kinetic data have been employed to calculate specific rate constants, indicating thereby involvement of first order kinetics in the on-going adsorption and activation energy was determined as 0.813 and 1.060 kJ mol(-1) for Bottom Ash and De-Oiled Soya, respectively. For both adsorbents, the adsorption process has been found governing by film diffusion, over the entire concentration range. Column operations have also been performed for the bulk removal of the dye and also to examine the practical utilization of fixed bed adsorption technique in elimination of dangerous effluent. Saturation factors for Bottom Ash and De-Oiled Soya columns have been calculated as 99.15 and 99.38%, respectively. Attempts have also been made to regenerate the dye from the exhausted columns using aqueous sodium hydroxide as eluent.

Removal of endosulfan and methoxychlor from water on carbon slurry

A carbon slurry, produced in generators of fuel-oil-based industrial generators was converted into an effective and efficient adsorbent for the removal of endosulfan and methoxychlor from aqueous solution. The adsorbent was chemically treated, activated, characterized, and used for the adsorption of endosulfan and methoxychlor pesticides. The maximum adsorption was found at 90 min, 6.5 pH, 0.025 g/L dose, and 25 degrees C temperature. Langmuir and Freundlich adsorption models were applied to analyze adsorption data, and the former was found applicable to this adsorption system in terms of relatively high regression values. The thermodynamic aspect of the process was also investigated by evaluating certain important parameters (enthalpy, free energy, and entropy of system). Kinetics of adsorption was found to follow the pseudo second order rate equation. The diffusion of pesticides into carbon slurry pores was suggested to be the rate controlling step by applying Bangham's equation. Adsorption on a column was also investigated in a continuous flow system. Adsorption efficiencies of endosulfan and methoxychlor were 34.11 and 36.06 mg/g in batch processes and 32.62 and 33.52 mg/g in column operations, respectively.

Evaluation of indigenous milk ELISA with m-culture and m-PCR for the diagnosis of Bovine Johne’s disease (BJD) in lactating Indian dairy cattle

Present study is the first attempt to evaluate an indigenous milk ELISA with milk culture, standardize milk PCR, estimate lacto-prevalence of Map and genotype Map DNA from milk samples in few Indian dairy herds. In all 115 cows were sampled from 669 lactating cows in six dairy herds from three districts of North India. Fifty milk samples (four herds) were screened by three tests (milk culture, m-ELISA and m-PCR). Lacto-prevalence of Map in four dairy herds was 84.0% (50.0% in fat and 62.0% in sediment). Screening of both fat and sediment increased the sensitivity of culture. Colonies appeared between 45 and 120 DPI. In indigenous m-ELISA, protoplasmic antigen derived from native Map 'Bison type' strain of goat origin was used. Screening of 115 lactating cows by m-ELISA ('herd screening test') detected 32.1% positive lactating cows (lacto-prevalence). Sensitivity of ELISA was 28.5% and 42.8% in single point cutoff and S/P ratio, respectively. Lacto-prevalence of JD was high in dairy herds (66.6-100.0% by culture and 20.0-50.0% by m-ELISA). DDD farm, Mathura had very high (95.8%) and moderate prevalence of Map and lacto-antibodies, respectively. All cows were clinically suffering from JD. Specific IS 900 PCR was standardized in decontaminated fat and sediment of milk samples. DNA isolated from decontaminated pellets was amplified and characteristic 229 bp band was confirmatory for Map. Of the 50 milk samples, 6.0% were positive in m-PCR. The test needs further standardization. Map DNA were genotyped as Map 'Bison type' by IS 1311 PCR-REA. Of the three tests, milk culture was most sensitive followed by m-ELISA and m-PCR. Map DNA isolated from milk samples of dairy cattle were first time genotyped as Map, 'Bison type' in India. High prevalence of Map in milk of dairy herds, posed major health hazard for calves and human beings.

Potentiometric sensors enabling fast screening of the benign prostatic hyperplasia drug alfuzosin in pharmaceuticals, urine and serum

The construction and characterization of potentiometric membrane electrodes are described for the quantification of alfuzosin, a drug used in a mono- and combined therapy of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The membranes of these electrodes consist of alfuzosin hydrochloride-tetraphenyl borate, (Az-TPB), chlorophenyl borate (Az-ClPB), and phosphotungstate (Az(3)-PT) ion associations as molecular recognition reagent dispersed in PVC matrix with dioctylpthalate as plasticizer. The performance characteristics of these electrodes, which were evaluated according to IUPAC recommendations, revealed a fast, stable and liner response for alfuzosin over the concentration ranges of 8.3 x 10(-6) to 1.0 x 10(-2) M, 3.8 x 10(-6) to 1.0 x 10(-2) M, 7.5 x 10(-7) to 1.0 x 10(-2) M AzCl with cationic slopes of 57.0, 56.0 and 58.5 mV/decade, respectively. The solubility product of the ion-pair and the formation constant of the precipitation reaction leading to the ion-pair formation were determined conductometrically. The electrodes, fully characterized in terms of composition, life span and usable pH range, were applied to the potentiometric determination of alfuzosin hydrochloride ion in different pharmaceutical preparations and biological fluids without any interference from excipients or diluents commonly used in drug formulations. The potentiometric method was also used in the determination of alfuzosin hydrochloride in pharmaceutical preparations in four batches with different expiration dates. Validation of the method showed suitability of the proposed electrodes for use in the quality control assessment of alfuzosin hydrochloride. This potentiometric method offers the advantages of high-throughput determination, simplicity, accuracy, automation feasibility, and applicability to turbid and colored sample solutions.

Adsorption studies on the removal of Vertigo Blue 49 and Orange DNA13 from aqueous solutions using carbon slurry developed from a waste material

Waste material (carbon slurry), from fuel oil-based generators, was used as adsorbent for the removal of two reactive dyes from synthetic textile wastewater. The study describes the results of batch experiments on removal of Vertigo Blue 49 and Orange DNA13 from synthetic textile wastewater onto activated carbon slurry. The utility of waste material in adsorbing reactive dyes from aqueous solutions has been studied as a function of contact time, temperature, pH, and initial dye concentrations by batch experiments. pH 7.0 was found suitable for maximum removal of Vertigo Blue 49 and Orange DNA13. Dye adsorption capacities of carbon slurry for the Vertigo Blue 49 and the Orange DNA13 were 11.57 and 4.54 mg g(-1) adsorbent, respectively. The adsorption isotherms for both dyes were better described by the Langmuir isotherm. Thermodynamic treatment of adsorption data showed an exothermic nature of adsorption with both dyes. The dye uptake process was found to follow second-order kinetics.

Prevalence and awareness about sexually transmitted infections among males in urban slums of Delhi

BACKGROUND

India is at present facing an emergence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and human immunodeficiency virus. Community-based studies on the prevalence of STIs among males are scanty.

AIM

(i) To study the prevalence of STIs and (ii) to assess the level of awareness about STIs among males belonging to the reproductive age group residing in an urban slum.

SETTING AND DESIGN

This is a cross-sectional study conducted in selected areas of Delhi, using a camp approach.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

One hundred ninety-six males in the reproductive age group were interviewed regarding their awareness about STIs, past history and present complaints of any symptoms suggestive of an STI. This was followed by a clinical examination. Required samples were also collected for microbiological tests.

STATISTICAL TESTS

Simple proportions and Chi-square test.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

As many as 70% of the study participants were unable to mention even one symptom of an STI. About 73.4% of the study participants stated that staying in a monogamous relationship could help prevent STI, while only 39.2% were aware that condoms could afford protection against an STI. As many as 8.7% complained of urethral discharge, while 5.6% complained of itching, 2.5% reported presence of genital ulcer and 1.0% complained of groin swelling. We found a seroprevalence rate of 1.5% for trichomoniasis and 3.6% for syphilis. Thus the overall awareness level about STIs and their prevention was rather low. Poor treatment-seeking behavior was also observed. The actual prevalence rate in the general population might be higher due to the likelihood of presence of an asymptomatic infection. The present study calls for a multipronged approach which also includes targeted interventions and strategies to be adopted in the reproductive health programs for males who have been neglected by the program managers so far.

Development of membrane electrodes for selective determination of some antiepileptic drugs in pharmaceuticals, plasma and urine

Newly developed, simple, low-cost and sensitive ion-selective electrodes have been proposed for determination of some antiepileptic drugs such as lamotrigine, felbamate, and primidone in their pharmaceutical preparations as well as in biological fluids. The electrodes are based on poly(vinyl chloride) membranes doped with drug-tetraphenyl borate (TPB) or drug-phosphotungstic acid (PT) ion-pair complexes as molecular recognition materials. The novel electrodes displayed rapid Nernstian responses with detection limits of approximately 10(-7) M. Calibration graphs were linear over the ranges 5.2 x 10(-7)-1.0 x 10(-3), 1.5 x 10(-6)-1.0 x 10(-3), and 2.6 x 10(-7)-1.0 x 10(-3 )M for drug-TPB and 5.8 x 10(-7)-1.0 x 10(-3), 1.8 x 10(-7)-1.0 x 10(-3), and 6.6 x 10(-7)-1.0 x 10(-3) M for drug-PT electrodes, respectively, with slopes ranging from 52.3 to 62.3 mV/decade. The membranes developed have potential stability for up to 1 month and proved to be highly selective for the drugs investigated over other ions and excipients. The results show that the selectivity of the ion-selective electrodes is influenced significantly by the plasticizer. The proposed electrodes were successfully applied in the determination of these drugs in pharmaceutical preparations in four batches of different expiry dates. Statistical Student's t test and F test showed insignificant systematic error between the ion-selective electrode methods developed and a standard method. Comparison of the results obtained using the proposed electrodes with those found using a reference method showed that the ion-selective electrode technique is sensitive, reliable, and can be used with very good accuracy and high percentage recovery without pretreatment procedures of the samples to minimize interfering matrix effects.

"Knowledge, attitude, behavior and practice (KABP) regarding HIV/AIDS among pregnant women attending PPTCT programme in New Delhi"

In India, several thousand HIV-infected babies are expected to be born every year. Despite effective intervention, the identification of HIV infected pregnant women prior to delivery is a major problem. KABP and acceptance of rapid screening of women for HIV among pregnant women attending ANC clinic and availing Voluntary Counselling and Confidential Testing services was assessed. The study was done among 90 pregnant women. There was no significant difference between one's husbands's job and income with respect to pregnant women's awareness of risk factors except that of tattooing. Education level had significant bearing on awareness level. Attitude about PLWHA indicates that 29% of the participants believed individuals with HIV shouldn't be allowed to get married, while 31% saying that they should not be allowed to have children. Participants supported compulsory HIV testing for pregnant women (39%) and couples before marriage. Almost 96% of participants had unprotected sex, though 41% casually used condom. All denied herself or her husband indulging in extramarital sex. The country is about to embark on its prevention of mother to child transmission (PMTCT) programme. This study throws some light on the level of knowledge acceptability and adoption of VCT and other PMTCT strategies among potential beneficiaries.

Comparative efficacy of an indigenous 'inactivated vaccine' using highly pathogenic field strain of Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis 'Bison type' with a commercial vaccine for the control of Capri-paratuberculosis in India

Johne's disease (JD) is endemic in goatherds located at Central Institute for Research on Goats, Makhdoom, since 1979 and lately it has been reported from farmer's herds in equal frequencies. Despite using test and slaughter method for the control of JD for more than 25 years in these herds, incidence of JD has not been reduced. Efficacy of 'indigenous vaccine' containing native 'Bison type' genotype of Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP) was compared with commercial vaccine using challenge studies with homologous strain of MAP. Goat kids (85) were randomly divided in to three groups. Kids were vaccinated with 1 ml of vaccine subcutaneously and Sham-immunized with 1 ml of sterile PBS. All kids except 3 in each group were challenged twice at 75- and 275-day post-vaccination (DPV). Four goats each from three groups were sacrificed at 200-day post-challenge to evaluate carcass and histopathologically for vaccine and challenge response in kids of different groups. Samples (blood, serum and fecal) were screened for LTT, ELISA and shedding of bacilli and data on live animal traits, mortality and experimental sacrifice were compared. Average body weights gained by goats in three groups at different stages of trials (0, 1-75, 76-275, 276-425 DPV) showed marked improvements in performance of vaccinated groups over 'Sham-immunized' group. Effect of vaccines against challenge became visible in terms of body weights gained at 276-425 DPV ('Bison' group gained significantly higher body weights than 'Sham-immunized'). Mortality was significantly less in two vaccinated as compared to 'Sham-immunized'. Vaccinated groups also had significant stimulation and sero-conversion for cell mediated and humoral immune response, respectively as compared to 'Sham-immunized'. Results of post-challenged fecal culture showed significant reduction in shedding of MAP in both vaccinated groups than in 'Sham-immunized'. There was significant improvement in external and internal body traits and histological lesions in case of vaccinated than 'Sham-immunized' group.

Primary invasive melanoma and basal cell carcinoma (collision tumor) with blue nevus-like cutaneous metastases

The simultaneous presence of two disparate neoplasms occurring in the same specimen has been well documented, albeit uncommonly. The juxtaposition of malignant melanoma and basal cell carcinoma (BCC) has been rarely reported in case reports, with most cases describing melanoma in situ and BCC. We present two cases of invasive melanoma (Clark level IV, no microscopic satellites present) intimately associated with BCC, and in areas distinction of the two lesions was difficult. Immunohistochemical studies delineated the two cell populations. In addition, one patient presented with multiple cutaneous metastases, all simulating blue nevi. The metastases occurred in the same anatomical region as the primary tumor, and histologically consisted of pigmented dendritic melanocytes and melanophages in the superficial and mid-dermis and arranged in a blue nevus-like lesion. Histologic clues suggesting the possibility of a metastatic melanoma included a sparse lymphocytic infiltrate, the presence of an epithelioid component and atypia of the dendritic melanocytes. However, without appropriate clinical history, the lesions could be overlooked as ordinary blue nevus. Collision tumors containing invasive melanoma and BCC are rare and this is the first report of a collision tumor with blue nevus-like metastasis. Awareness of this phenomenon and pattern of metastasis, together with the clinical findings will aid in the correct classification of these lesions.

Fullerene-C60-modified electrode as a sensitive voltammetric sensor for detection of nandrolone—An anabolic steroid used in doping

The electrochemical behaviour of nandrolone is investigated by cyclic, differential pulse and square-wave voltammetry in phosphate buffer system at fullerene-C60-modified electrode. The modified electrode shows an excellent electrocatalytic activity towards the oxidation of nandrolone resulting in a marked lowering in the peak potential and considerable improvement of the peak current as compared to the electrochemical activity at the bare glassy carbon electrode. The oxidation process is shown to be irreversible and diffusion-controlled. A linear range of 50 microM to 0.1 nM is obtained along with a detection limit and sensitivity of 0.42 nM and 0.358 nA nM(-1), respectively, in square-wave voltammetric technique. A diffusion coefficient of 4.13x10(-8) cm2 s(-1) was found for nandrolone using chronoamperometry. The effect of interferents, stability and reproducibility of the proposed method were also studied. The described method was successfully employed for the determination of nandrolone in human serum and urine samples. A cross-validation of observed results by GC-MS indicates that the results are in good agreement with each other.

T lymphocyte subset profile and serum alpha-1-antitrypsin in pathogenesis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is an inflammatory disorder characterized by the presence of non-fully reversible airflow limitation. The study was undertaken to investigate the involvement of alpha-1-antitrypsin (alpha(1)AT) and T lymphocyte subsets in the pathogenesis of COPD. Blood samples of 50 subjects, including 25 healthy volunteers and 25 patients with COPD, were analysed. Serum trypsin inhibitory capacity (STIC) was determined by enzymatic assay. CD4(+) and CD8(+) T lymphocytes were enumerated in heparinized blood using a fluorescence activated cell sorter counter. The STIC in COPD patients was found to be decreased significantly than in controls (P < 0.01). In COPD patients with lower expression levels of alpha(1)AT, a highly significant decrease in the number of CD4(+) T lymphocytes (P < 0.0009) and CD4/CD8 ratio was observed compared with control subjects (P < 0.008). The mean +/- standard error of CD8(+) lymphocytes was found to be little different (only marginally decreased) in COPD patients compared to healthy controls; however, an alteration in the individual count of CD8(+) lymphocytes cells was observed in COPD patients. Using linear regression analysis, a negative correlation was observed between STIC and CD4(+) lymphocytes and CD8(+) lymphocytes (r = -0.40, P < 0.04; r = -0.42, P < 0.03, respectively) in COPD patients. An alteration in alpha(1)AT and T lymphocyte subsets in COPD patients suggested that interplay of these factors may be responsible for the progression of COPD.

A rare case of trypanosomiasis in a two month old infant in Mumbai, India

Human Trypanosomiasis is a rare occurrence in India. In the cases reported so far the disease causative species have been the species infective to animals viz., Trypanosoma lewisi and Trypanosoma evansi. These animal species usually non pathogenic in humans can acquire the desired virulence and emerge as human pathogens causing serious disease, in the right combination of environmental, host related and organism related factors. We report here a case of trypanosomiasis caused by the rodent parasite T. lewisi in a two months old infant in urban Mumbai. Under the fastly changing environmental scenario there is an urgent need to be prepared for the emerging zoonoses. Any unusual disease occurrence in a given geographical area acquires a special significance in this context and should be reported to assess its public health importance and be prepared to deal with the consequent challenges posed, if any.

Photochemical degradation of the hazardous dye Safranin-T using TiO2 catalyst

Aqueous solutions of Safranin-T, a hazardous textile dye, are photodegraded under ultraviolet light using TiO2 as catalyst. The process has been carried out at different pHs, amounts of catalyst, concentrations of the dye, and effects of the electron acceptor H2O2. It is found that under the influence of TiO2 as catalyst the colored solution of the dye Safranin-T becomes colorless and the process follows first-order reaction kinetics. The optimum conditions for the degradation of the dye have been found as 5.0x10(-5) M dye concentration, pH 5.7, and 12 mg catalyst dose. In order to evaluate the effect of the electron acceptor, the effect of H2O2 on the degradation process is also monitored and it is found that generation of hydroxyl radicals and retardation of electron-hole recombination takes place. Measuring chemical oxygen demand also monitors the toxicity of the degraded dye solution and a significant decrease is observed, which implies that the photodegradation through TiO2 is a safer technique.

Evaluation of highly sensitive indigenous milk ELISA kit with fecal culture, milk culture and fecal-PCR for the diagnosis of bovine Johne's disease (BJD) in India

Country lacks indigenous diagnostic kits against Johne's disease in animals. Indigenous ELISA and IS 900 PCR kits, originally developed for goats and sheep, have been adapted for screening of lactating cows. Multiple diagnostic tests were used to screen 26 lactating dairy cows against Johne's disease. Milk ELISA was evaluated with fecal culture, milk culture and fecal PCR. Of the 26 samples from lactating cows, 84.6, 96.1, 88.4 and 23.0% were positive in fecal culture, milk culture, m-ELISA and m-PCR, respectively. Comparatively milk sediment and milk fat culture detected 84.6 and 76.9% cows positive, respectively. Comparatively fecal culture and milk culture detected 84.6 and 96.1% cows positive, respectively. M-ELISA detected 11.5, 0.0, 11.5, 61.0 and 15.3%, cows as negative, suspected, low positive, positive and strong positive, respectively. There was good correlation between milk and fecal culture with m-ELISA. Three negative cows in m-ELISA were also detected in milk and fecal culture. Of the 26 decontaminated fecal samples, 23.0% cows were positive using specific IS 900 f-PCR. Comparative evaluation of m-ELISA with fecal and milk culture showed agreement in 80.7 and 84.6% cows, respectively. Sensitivity of m-ELISA with respect to fecal and culture was 90.9 and 95.6%, respectively. Comparative evaluation of four tests (milk culture, fecal culture, m-ELISA and f-PCR) showed that only 15.3% cows were detected in all the four tests. In three tests (fecal and milk culture and m-ELISA), 57.6% cows were detected positive. None of the cow was exclusively detected in f-PCR. Of the four diagnostic tests used milk culture was most sensitive (96.15%), followed by fecal culture (86.6%), m-ELISA (76.9%) and IS 900 PCR (23.0%) for the diagnosis of bovine Johne's disease (BJD). Milk ELISA detected only one cow extra, which was negative in milk culture. In view of the simplicity, rapidity and efficacy present milk ELISA kit employing soluble protoplasmic antigen from native Map 'Bison type' genotype of goat origin can be reliable for screening of bovine population against Johne's disease in India.

Prevalence and awareness about sexually transmitted infections among males in urban slums of Delhi

BACKGROUND

India is at present facing an emergence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and human immunodeficiency virus. Community-based studies on the prevalence of STIs among males are scanty.

AIM

(i) To study the prevalence of STIs and (ii) to assess the level of awareness about STIs among males belonging to the reproductive age group residing in an urban slum.

SETTING AND DESIGN

This is a cross-sectional study conducted in selected areas of Delhi, using a camp approach.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

One hundred ninety-six males in the reproductive age group were interviewed regarding their awareness about STIs, past history and present complaints of any symptoms suggestive of an STI. This was followed by a clinical examination. Required samples were also collected for microbiological tests.

STATISTICAL TESTS

Simple proportions and Chi-square test.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

As many as 70% of the study participants were unable to mention even one symptom of an STI. About 73.4% of the study participants stated that staying in a monogamous relationship could help prevent STI, while only 39.2% were aware that condoms could afford protection against an STI. As many as 8.7% complained of urethral discharge, while 5.6% complained of itching, 2.5% reported presence of genital ulcer and 1.0% complained of groin swelling. We found a seroprevalence rate of 1.5% for trichomoniasis and 3.6% for syphilis. Thus the overall awareness level about STIs and their prevention was rather low. Poor treatment-seeking behavior was also observed. The actual prevalence rate in the general population might be higher due to the likelihood of presence of an asymptomatic infection. The present study calls for a multipronged approach which also includes targeted interventions and strategies to be adopted in the reproductive health programs for males who have been neglected by the program managers so far.

TLC-spectrophometric separation and trace determination of monocrotophos and dichlorvos in enviromental and biological samples

Organophosphorus insecticides, monocrotophos and dichlrovos are increasingly being used in agriculture to control insects on a wide range of crops. Their ready access has resulted in misuse in many instances of homicidal and suicidal poisoning cases. This paper describes about a chromogenic spray reagent for the detection/determination of monocrophos and dichlrovos in environmental and biological samples by TLC and spectrophotometric method. Monocrotophos and dichlorvos on alkaline hydrolysis yield N-methyl acetoacetamide and dichlroacetaldehyde respectively, which in turn react with diazotized p-amino acetophenone to give red-violet and red coloured compounds. Other organophosphorus insecticides do not give this reaction. Moreover, organochlorine and synthetic pyrethroid insecticides and constituents of viscera (amino acids, peptides, proteins etc), which are generally coextracted with the insecticides, do not interfere. However, phenolic compounds and hydrolysed product of carbamate insecticides may interfere and differentiate from monocrotophos and dichlrovos by Rf values. The lower limit of detection is 0.2 mg for monocrotophos and 0.1 mg for dichlorovos. The absorption maxima of the reddish-violet and red colour formed by monocrotophos and dichlrovos, are measured at 560 nm and 540 nm respectively. Beer's Law is obeyed over the concentration range of 1.2 to 6.8 mg and 6.2 to 35 mg in the final solution volume of 25 mL. The molar absorptivity and Sandell's sensitivity of monocrotophos and dichlrovos were found to be 7.1 x 10(5) (+100) 1 mole(-1) cm(-1) and 0.008 mg cm(-2), 1.2 x 10(5) 1 mole(-1) cm(-1) and 0.003 mg cm(-2) respectively. The standard deviation and relative standard deviation were found be +/- 0.005 and 2.05% +/- 0.007 and 2.02% respectively. The developed method has been successfully applied to the detection and determination of monocrotophos and dichlrovos in environmental and biological samples.

T-cell epitope mapping of ORF2 and ORF3 proteins of human hepatitis E virus

Little data are available on cellular immune responses during infection with hepatitis E virus (HEV). We therefore mapped CD4 T-cell epitopes in open reading frame (ORF)2 and ORF3 proteins of HEV using lymphocyte proliferation assays and overlapping peptide libraries. Proliferation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells from 40 patients with acute hepatitis E and 21 healthy controls with recombinant HEV ORF2 protein or pools of overlapping HEV ORF2/ORF3 peptides was measured. HLA-DQB1 and HLA-DRB1 alleles were also determined. Mononuclear cells from patients with hepatitis E more often showed significant proliferation on stimulation with recombinant ORF2 protein than controls (32/40 vs 7/21), and had higher median (range) stimulation indices [2.6 (0.9-15.2) vs 1.3 (0.6-12.9)]. Peptide pools corresponding to amino acids 73-156, 289-372, 361-444 and 505-588 of HEV ORF2 protein were associated with significant proliferation. Individual peptides in these pools did not show a clear pattern of stimulation. HEV ORF3 peptide pools did not induce proliferative responses. Lymphocyte proliferation in response to the peptide pool corresponding to amino acids 289-372 of HEV ORF2 protein was associated with presence of HLA-DRB1 allele 010X. These data on mapping of T-cell epitopes in HEV proteins may prove useful for designing HEV vaccines and for studying the immunopathogenesis of hepatitis E.

Protective role of mannan-binding lectin in a murine model of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis

Innate immune molecules such as lung collectins and serum pentraxins have evolved as important host defence proteins against Aspergillus fumigatus, a medically important opportunistic fungal pathogen. Mannan-binding lectin (MBL), an opsonin and lectin complement pathway activator, constitutes another vital player of innate immunity against several pathogenic organisms in the serum. Studies have reported significant binding of MBL to A. fumigatus; however, the protective role of MBL against A. fumigatus-mediated invasive disease remains elusive. Henceforth, we investigated the contribution of externally administered recombinant human (rh) MBL towards anti-fungal defence in invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) by in vivo and in vitro studies. In murine models of IPA with corticosteroid-induced immunosuppression, rhMBL-treated mice showed 80% survival compared to untreated IPA mice with no survivors. Treated IPA mice also showed a marked increase in tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha and interleukin (IL)-1alpha and a significant decrease in pulmonary fungal hyphae and IL-10. In vitro, rhMBL-bound A. fumigatus conidia showed a dose-dependent increase in the deposition of C4b, the first product of the lectin pathway. There was an enhanced uptake of A. fumigatus conidia by the polymorphonuclear cells (PMNs) in the presence of rhMBL that increased further in the presence of MBL supplemented with MBL-deficient serum. However, an increase in the oxidative burst of PMNs and A. fumigatus killing were observed only when MBL was supplemented with MBL-deficient serum. The study suggests a therapeutic role of ex vivo-administered MBL in host defence against aspergillosis, possibly through MBL-mediated complement activation and other protective mechanisms aimed both directly at the pathogen, and indirectly through modulation of the host inflammatory responses.

Aluminum(III) selective potentiometric sensor based on morin in poly(vinyl chloride) matrix

Al(3+) selective sensor has been fabricated from poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) matrix membranes containing neutral carrier morin as ionophore. Best performance was exhibited by the membrane having composition as morin:PVC:sodium tetraphenyl borate:tri-n-butylphosphate in the ratio 5:150:5:150 (w/w, mg). This membrane worked well over a wide activity range of 5.0x10(-7) to 1.0x10(-1)M of Al(3+) with a Nernstian slope of 19.7+/-0.1mV/decade of Al(3+) activity and a limit of detection 3.2x10(-7)M. The response time of the sensor is approximately 5s and membrane could be used over a period of 2 months with good reproducibility. The proposed sensor works well over a pH range (3.5-5.0) and demonstrates good discriminating power over a number of mono-, di- and trivalent cations. The sensor can also be used in partially non-aqueous media having up to 20% (v/v) methanol, ethanol or acetone content with no significant change in the value of slope or working activity range. The sensor has also been used in the potentiometric titration of Al(3+) with EDTA and for its determination in zinc plating mud and red mud.

Metoclopramide aborts cough-induced headache and ameliorates cough--a pilot study

Metoclopramide (MTCL) can abort attacks of migraine headache. I report swift resolution of cough-induced headache as well as suppression of cough in six male patients following parenteral administration of MTCL. A similar unexpected rapid antitussive action of MTCL was also observed in 12 of 14 other patients (13 male and 1 female) with severe paroxysmal cough without headache. Use of MTCL primarily for analgesia is reviewed, and the pharmacological basis for its antinociceptive action is proposed. As a nonopiate agent with potential to stimulate endogenous opiate-mediated mechanisms, MTCL appears to have additional valuable roles in clinical practice. This is the first report of an antitussive action of MTCL. Further controlled studies are required to confirm the therapeutic role of MTCL in cough-induced headache as well as its potential antitussive and general analgesic actions.

Schiff bases as cadmium(II) selective ionophores in polymeric membrane electrodes

The construction and performance characteristics of polymeric membrane electrodes based on two neutral ionophores, N,N'-[bis(pyridin-2-yl)formylidene]butane-1,4-diamine (S1) and N-(2-pyridinylmethylene)-1,2-benzenediamine (S2) for quantification of cadmium ions, are described. The influences of membrane compositions on the potentiometric response of the electrodes have been found to substantially improve the performance characteristics. The best performance was obtained with the electrode having a membrane composition (w/w) of (S1) (2.15%):PVC (32.2%):o-NPOE (64.5%):KTpClPB (1.07%). The proposed electrode exhibits Nernstian response in the concentration range of 7.9x10(-8) to 1.0x10(-1) M Cd2+ with limit of detection 5.0x10(-8) M, performs satisfactorily over wide pH range (2.0-8.0) with a fast response time (10 s). The sensor has been found to work satisfactorily in partially non-aqueous media up to 30% (v/v) content of methanol, ethanol and acetonitrile and could be used for a period of 2 months. The analytical usefulness of the proposed electrode has been evaluated by its application in the determination of cadmium in real samples. The practical utility of the membrane electrode has also been observed in the presence of surfactants.

Advances in water treatment by adsorption technology

Among various water purification and recycling technologies, adsorption is a fast, inexpensive and universal method. The development of low-cost adsorbents has led to the rapid growth of research interests in this field. The present protocol describes salient features of adsorption and details experimental methodologies for the development and characterization of low-cost adsorbents, water treatment and recycling using adsorption technology including batch processes and column operations. The protocol describes the development of inexpensive adsorbents from waste materials, which takes only 1-2 days, and an adsorption process taking 15-120 min for the removal of pollutants. The applications of batch and column processes are discussed, along with suggestions to make this technology more popular and applicable.

Micro determination of ascorbic acid using methyl viologen

A new simple and sensitive analytical spectrophotometric method is developed for the determination of ascorbic acid reduces methyl viologen to form a stable blue coloured free radical ion. This method has a sensitivity and lower limit detection of 0.1mugml(-1) of ascorbic acid (0.1ppm) which is comparable to the flow injection analysis reported earlier. Beer's law is obeyed over the concentration range of 1.0-10mugml(-1) of ascorbic acid per 10ml of the final solution (0.1-1.0mugml(-1)) at 600nm. The molar absorptivity and Sandell's sensitivity were found to be 1.5x10(5)+/-100lmol(-1)cm(-1) and 0.001mugcm(-2), respectively. The method has been applied to the determination of ascorbic acid in food, pharmaceuticals and biological samples.