Predictive capability evaluation and optimization of Pb(II) removal by reduced graphene oxide-based inverse spinel nickel ferrite nanocomposite

Pb(II) is a heavy metal that is a prominent contaminant in water contamination. Among the different pollution removal strategies, adsorption was determined to be the most effective. The adsorbent and its type determine the adsorption process's efficiency. As part of this effort, a magnetic reduced graphene oxide-based inverse spinel nickel ferrite (rGNF) nanocomposite for Pb(II) removal is synthesized, and the optimal values of the independent process variables (like initial concentration, pH, residence time, temperature, and adsorbent dosage) to achieve maximum removal efficiency are investigated using conventional response surface methodology (RSM) and artificial neural networks (ANN). The results indicate that the initial concentration, adsorbent dose, residence time, pH, and process temperature are set to 15 mg/L, 0.55 g/L, 100 min, 5, and 30 °C, respectively, the maximum removal efficiency (99.8%) can be obtained. Using the interactive effects of process variables findings, the adsorption surface mechanism was examined in relation to process factors. A data-driven quadratic equation is derived based on the ANOVA, and its predictions are compared with ANN predictions to evaluate the predictive capabilities of both approaches. The R² values of RSM and ANN predictions are 0.979 and 0.991 respectively and confirm the superiority of the ANN approach.

Knowledge extraction of sonophotocatalytic treatment for acid blue 113 dye removal by artificial neural networks

Removing decolorizing acid blue 113 (AB113) dye from textile wastewater is challenging due to its high stability and resistance to removal. In this study, we used an artificial neural network (ANN) model to estimate the effect of five different variables on AB113 dye removal in the sonophotocatalytic process. The five variables considered were reaction time (5-25 min), pH (3-11), ZnO dosage (0.2-1.0 g/L), ultrasonic power (100-300 W/L), and persulphate dosage (0.2-3 mmol/L). The most effective model had a 5-7-1 architecture, with an average deviation of 0.44 and R² of 0.99. A sensitivity analysis was used to analyze the impact of different process variables on removal efficiency and to identify the most effective variable settings for maximum dye removal. Then, an imaginary sonophotocatalytic system was created to measure the quantitative impact of other process parameters on AB113 dye removal. The optimum process parameters for maximum AB 113 removal were identified as 6.2 pH, 25 min reaction time, 300 W/L ultrasonic power, 1.0 g/L ZnO dosage, and 2.54 mmol/L persulfate dosage. The model created was able to identify trends in dye removal and can contribute to future experiments.

Development of artificial neural networks software for arsenic adsorption from an aqueous environment

Arsenic contamination is a global problem, as it affects the health of millions of people. For this study, data-driven artificial neural network (ANN) software was developed to predict and validate the removal of As(V) from an aqueous solution using graphene oxide (GO) under various experimental conditions. A reliable model for wastewater treatment is essential in order to predict its overall performance and to provide an idea of how to control its operation. This model considered the adsorption process parameters (initial concentration, adsorbent dosage, pH, and residence time) as the input variables and arsenic removal as the only output. The ANN model predicted the adsorption efficiency with high accuracy for both training and testing datasets, when compared with the available response surface methodology (RSM) model. Based on the best model synaptic weights, user-friendly ANN software was created to predict and analyze arsenic removal as a function of adsorption process parameters. We developed various graphical user interfaces (GUI) for easy use of the developed model. Thus, a researcher can efficiently operate the software without an understanding of programming or artificial neural networks. Sensitivity analysis and quantitative estimation were carried out to study the function of adsorption process parameter variables on As(V) removal efficiency, using the GUI of the model. The model prediction shows that the adsorbent dosages, initial concentration, and pH are the most influential parameters. The efficiency was increased as the adsorbent dosages increased, decreasing with initial concentration and pH. The result show that the pH 2.0-5.0 is optimal for adsorbent efficiency (%).

Modeling and optimization of process parameters of biofilm reactor for wastewater treatment

The efficiency of heavy metal in biofilm reactors depends on absorption process parameters, and those relationships are complicated. This study explores artificial neural networks (ANNs) feasibility to correlate the biofilm reactor process parameters with absorption efficiency. The heavy metal removal and turbidity were modeled as a function of five process parameters, namely pH, temperature(°C), feed flux(ml/min), substrate flow(ml/min), and hydraulic retention time(h). We developed a standalone ANN software for predicting and analyzing the absorption process in handling industrial wastewater. The model was tested extensively to confirm that the predictions are reasonable in the context of the absorption kinetics principles. The model predictions showed that the temperature and pH values are the most influential parameters affecting absorption efficiency and turbidity.

Artificial neural networks modeling for lead removal from aqueous solutions using iron oxide nanocomposites from bio-waste mass

Heavy metal ions in aqueous solutions are taken into account as one of the most harmful environmental issues that ominously affect human health. Pb(II) is a common pollutant among heavy metals found in industrial wastewater, and various methods were developed to remove the Pb(II). The adsorption method was more efficient, cheap, and eco-friendly to remove the Pb(II) from aqueous solutions. The removal efficiency depends on the process parameters (initial concentration, the adsorbent dosage of T-Fe3O4 nanocomposites, residence time, and adsorbent pH). The relationship between the process parameters and output is non-linear and complex. The purpose of the present study is to develop an artificial neural networks (ANN) model to estimate and analyze the relationship between Pb(II) removal and adsorption process parameters. The model was trained with the backpropagation algorithm. The model was validated with the unseen datasets. The correlation coefficient adj.R² values for total datasets is 0.991. The relationship between the parameters and Pb(II) removal was analyzed by sensitivity analysis and creating a virtual adsorption process. The study determined that the ANN modeling was a reliable tool for predicting and optimizing adsorption process parameters for maximum lead removal from aqueous solutions.

Prediction of batch sorption of barium and strontium from saline water

Celestite and barite formation results in contamination of barium and strontium ions hinder oilfield water purification. Conversion of bio-waste sorbent products deals with a viable, sustainable and clean remediation approach for removing contaminants. Biochar sorbent produced from rice straw was used to remove barium and strontium ions of saline water from petroleum industries. The removal efficiency depends on biochar amount, pH, contact time, temperature, and Ba/Sr concentration ratio. The interactions and effects of these parameters with removal efficiency are multifaceted and nonlinear. We used an artificial neural network (ANN) model to explore the correlation between process variables and sorption responses. The ANN model is more accurate than that of existing kinetic and isotherm equations in assessing barium and strontium removal with adj. R² values of 0.994 and 0.991, respectively. We developed a standalone user interface to estimate the barium and strontium removal as a function of sorption process parameters. Sensitivity analysis and quantitative estimation were carried out to study individual process variables' impact on removal efficiency.

Modeling and optimization of chlorophenol rejection for spiral wound reverse osmosis membrane modules

This study shows an artificial neural network (ANN) model of chlorophenol rejection from aqueous solutions and predicting the performance of spiral wound reverse osmosis (SWRO) modules. This type of rejection shows complex non-linear dependencies on feed pressure, feed temperature, concentration, and feed flow rate. It provides a demanding test of the application of ANN model analysis to SWRO modules. The predictions are compared with experimental data obtained with SWRO modules. The overall agreement between the experimental and ANN model predicted was almost 99.9% accuracy for the chlorophenol rejection. The ANN model approach has the advantage of understanding the complex chlorophenol rejection phenomena as a function of SWRO process parameters.

Free-Standing NiS₂ Electrode as High-Rate Anode Material for Sodium-Ion Batteries

Owing to the speculated price hike and scarcity of lithium resources, sodium-ion batteries are attracting significant research interest these days. However, sodium-ion battery anodes do not deliver good electrochemical performance, particularly rate performance. Herein, we report the facile electrospinning synthesis of a free-standing nickel disulfide (NiS²) embedded on carbon nanofiber. This electrode did not require a conducting agent, current collector, and binder, and typically delivered high capacity and rate performance. The electrode delivered a high initial capacity of 603 mAh g^-1 at the current density of 500 mA g^-1. Moreover, the electrode delivered the capacity of 271 mAh g^-1 at the high current density of 15 A g^-1. The excellent rate performance and high coulombic efficiency of the electrode were attributed to its low charge transfer resistance and unique structure.

Phosphate crosslinked pectin based dual responsive hydrogel networks and nanocomposites: Development, swelling dynamics and drug release characteristics

Potential dual responsive hydrogel networks (PPAD) are fabricated from pectin, poly((2-dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate)) and phosphate crosslinker bis[2-methacryloyloxy] ethyl phosphate (BMEP) by a simple free radical polymerization. These hydrogel networks are successfully utilized for encapsulation of an anti-cancer drug, 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and also employed as versatile platforms for production of silver nanoparticles. Fabricated hydrogel networks and silver nanocomposites were characterized by FTIR, SEM, EDX, TEM, DLS, DSC, TGA and XRD. Different polymer network parameters such as M_C¯, χ, ξ and υ_e and diffusion constant (D) were evaluated to assess the drug release profile. The 5FU loaded PPAD hydrogels were used to perform in vitro release studies in both gastric and intestinal conditions of GIT (pH 1.2 & pH 7.4) at two different temperatures (25 and 37°C). On the other hand various kinetic models (zero, first, Higuchi & Koresmeyer-Peppas) have also been employed to fit drug release profile. In addition, the antibacterial activity of PPAD silver nanocomposites were tested against four bacterial species Escherichia coli (-ve), Klebsiella pneumoniae (-ve), Bacillus cereus (+ve) and Staphylococcus aereus (+ve) using zone of inhibition test.

Bio-waste derived dialdehyde cellulose ethers as supports for α-chymotrypsin immobilization

Enzyme immobilization is an important technique to enhance stability, storability and reusability of enzymes. In the present work, pine needles, a forest bio-waste, were used as a feedstock of cellulose to synthesize new materials as supports for immobilization of α-chymotrypsin (CT) enzyme. The extracted cellulose from pine needles was etherified with different alkyl bromides (RBr) and etherified products were further modified to dialdehyde via oxidation with NaIO4 to get the desired products, dialdehyde cellulose ethers (ROcellCHO). CT was then covalently immobilized onto as-synthesized dialdehyde cellulose ethers via Schiff-base formation, i.e., imine linkage. The synthesized products and enzyme immobilization were confirmed by different characterization techniques and the activity assay of the free and the immobilized CT was carried out using standard protocol with variation of different parameters such as temperature, pH and substrate concentration. The storage stability and reusability of the immobilized CT were also investigated. CT activity was also studied in simulated physiological conditions in the artificial gastric fluid and artificial intestinal fluid. Artificial neural network (ANN) model was employed to correlate the relationship with% relative activity and time, temperature and pH affecting enzyme activity. A good correlation of experimental data was predicted by ANN model.

A study of Eagle’s syndrome in CMS-TH Bharatpur

Objective To study the common symptoms and outcome of surgical treatment of Eagle’s syndromeMethods A total of 22 cases were studied prospectively in both sexes from January 2008 to December 2010, in Department of ENT-HNS College Of Medical Sciences-Teaching Hospital, Bharatpur, Nepal. Patients with symptomatic styloid process were clinically palpated at tonsillar fossa and finally sent for X-ray styloid process. Patients underwent intra-oral tonsillectomy with styloidectomy. Post-operative improvement was analysed by follow up at one three and six months interval.Results Most common age group was 30-40 years (63.63%) with female dominance (M:F=1:4.5). The most frequent symptoms were pain in throat (29.62%), referred pain in ear (20.37%), pain in anterior triangle in neck (24.07%), foreign body sensation in throat (14.81%) and difficulty in swallowing (11.11%). Fifty nine percent of patients were having symptoms for last two to four years and 50% were on medication for last one to two years. All the patients underwent styloidectomy through intra-oral route. (63.63%) patients became symptom free and 13.63% didn’t show improvement even after operation.Conclusion Eagle’s syndrome is common in young females with various atypical presentations. Dull/throbbing or radiationg throat pain and pain in anterior triangle of the neck are common presentations. Diagnosis is done simply by palpating the tonsillar fossa.Journal of College of Medical Sciences-Nepal, 2014, Vol.10(1); 5-10

Underlay tympanoplasty with tunneling and placement of graft in anterior canal wall

Tympanoplasty is one of the commonest surgical procedures done by ENT Surgeons. Though it has a long history of about six decades, various techniques have been advocated. Today most widely used technique is underlay. Overlay technique is reserved for total perforation. A modification of the underlay technique with anterior tunneling and placement of graft in anterior canal wall was tried and evaluated. Cases were selected from patients attending CMS-TH, Bharatpur. Seventy (70) cases were included and results were evaluated. Journal of College of Medical Sciences-Nepal,2011,Vol-7,No-4, 44-47 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jcmsn.v7i4.6740

Aerobic bacteriology of Chronic Suppurative Otitis Media (CSOM) in a tertiary care hospital: A retrospective study

The present study was carried out to determine the aerobic microorganisms involved and their antibiotic sensitivity pattern in patients with Chronic Suppurative Otitis Media (CSOM) and to provide a guideline for empirical antibiotic therapy.Between March 2009 to February 2011, the ear discharge samples submitted at the microbiology laboratory were processed aerobically and all the isolates were included in this study. All organisms were identified morphologically and biochemically by standard laboratory procedures and antibiotic susceptibility pattern was determined by modified Kirby Bauer disc diffusion method as per National Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standard recommendations.Out of a total of 214 samples, microbiological culture was yielded from 202 (94.3%) specimens. Single organism were isolated from 168 (78.5%) of the culture positive specimens, while the remaining 34 (15.9%) had two or more organisms isolated. Pseudomonas aeruginosa 59 (35.1%) was the most common isolate, followed by Staphylococcus aureus 42 (25.0%) including 5 (3%) of the Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA). Antibiotic sensitivities of Pseudomonas aeruginosa showed that 93.2% isolates were sensitive to tobramycin, whereas, 91.5% isolates were sensitive to ceftazidime and 77.9% to amikacin.Only 50.8% of the isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa were sensitive to ciprofloxacin and 25.4% to gentamicin. For Staphylococcus aureus (other than MRSA) 95.2% were sensitive to cloxacillin, 83.3% to gentamicin and 78.5% to erythromycin. Only 07.1% were sensitive to ampicillin and 26.1% to ciprofloxacin.Pseudomonas aeruginosa was the most common isolate followed by Staphylococcus aureus. More than 90% of Pseudomonas and 90% of Staph aureus were sensitive to tobramycin and cloxacillin respectively. Therefore, these two drugs may be included in the formulary to cover the most common aerobic isolates involved in CSOM.Journal of College of Medical Sciences-Nepal, 2011, Vol-7, No-2, 1-8DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jcmsn.v7i2.6673

Availability of doctors at primary health centres of Andhra Pradesh, India

BACKGROUND

Availability of doctors at primary health centres (PHCs) is a major concern. We measured the operational availability of doctors in PHCs and examined the effect of residential distance and private practice.

METHODS

Thirty-six health centres, consisting of six randomly selected PHCs from six purposively chosen districts in Andhra Pradesh were studied. Cross-sectional data on residential distance, private practice and attendance pattern of 38 operationally available medical officers were analysed.

RESULTS

About 80% of doctors residing within 20 km attended their PHC on all 6 days of a week, compared with only 33% for those staying >40 km away. Among those staying >20 km away from their PHC, the odds of absenteeism by privately practising doctors was 3-24 times more than for those not practising privately.

CONCLUSION

Residential distance seems to affect the operational availability of doctors. Private practice by doctors living within 20 km from the PHC does not seem to affect their operational availability. However, private practice by doctors staying >20 km away from their PHC may affect their availability.

Penetrating foreign body neck: a case report

Penetrating neck wounds are potentially dangerous and require emergency management because of the presence of vital structures in the neck. Organic foreign bodies further carries a risk of wound infection. We present a case of penetrating broken branch of a tree traversing from zone II to zone III without any neurovascular injury. Neck exploration was done with midline mandibulotomy approach and foreign body was removed without any complication.

Orbital cellulitis--a complication of sinusitis

A 9 years old patient presented with swelling and severe pain in right eye with diplopia; with normal visual acuity. CT scan of paranasal sinus revealed right eye axial proptosis and dehiscence in lamina papyracia. After thorough investigation, patient was posted for surgical drainage and decompression of the right orbit. Patient, improved after surgery and followed regularly for last 2 months.

Ameloblastoma of the Maxilla

A case of recurrent maxillary ameloblastoma in a 48 year's old lady is presented along with a brief reviewof literature. The factors determining recurrence, modalities of treatment and management of recurrenceare discussed.Key Words: Ameloblastoma, Maxilla.

Subcutaneous Emphysema A rare complication of tonsillectomy

Cervical subcutaneous emphysema results from the entry of air into the muscle planes and subcutaneousplanes. It can rarely be seen after tonsillectomy. We report this rare complication in a 20 year old femaleoperated for chronic tonsillitis with history of peritonsillar abscess in past. The case is reported for itsrarity. The pathogenesis and management of this complication is presented with the review of literature.Key Words: Tonsillectomy, Subcutaneous emphysema, Cervical.

MAXILLARY SINUS SCHWANNOMA EXTENDING TO ORBIT

ABSTRACTSchwannoma occur in the head and neck region more frequently than in any other part of the body, affectingmainly the eighth cranial nerve. However schwannoma in the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses is a rareentity with only sporadic cases appearing in the literature. We present one such rare case of maxillarysinus schwannoma extending to nasal cavity orbit and anterior skull base in a 46 year old male. The tumorwas successfully removed by midfacial degloving approach. The relevant literature on the presentation,radiology and management of schwannoma of maxillary sinus is discussed.Key Words: Schwannoma, Maxillary Sinus, Nasal Cavity.

ONCOCYTOMA OF THE NASAL CAVITY

ABSTRACTOncocytoma of the nasal cavity is an extremely rare condition with only a few cases reported in the literature.A case of oncocytoma of the nasal cavity in a 12 years old Nepali boy is presented along with a brief reviewof the relevant literature.Key Words: Oncocytoma, Oxyphil adenoma, Nasal cavity.

A survey of the treatment of displaced intracapsular femoral neck fractures in the UK

A survey was undertaken to investigate the treatment of displaced intracapsular femoral neck fractures across the UK. The usual practice at 223 hospitals was recorded for two groups of patients, active and frail. Management of stereotyped fractures, in similar patients, varied between hospitals. There was also variation between specialists within some hospitals: two or more of the alternative methods of treatment were in routine use for active patients at 22% of hospitals and for frail patients at 27%. Overall, for active patients, bipolar hemiarthroplasty was undertaken at 41% of hospitals, internal fixation at 37%, unipolar hemiarthroplasty at 32% and total hip replacement at 16%. Cemented prostheses were used in 74% of arthroplasties for active patients. For frail patients, hemiarthroplasty with an Austin Moore or Thompson prostheses was undertaken at 94% of hospitals; bipolar prostheses were used at 8%; internal fixation was undertaken at 1%. Cement was used in 46% of hemiarthroplasties. These findings indicate a lack of consensus in aspects of the treatment of displaced intracapsular femoral neck fractures and are likely to reflect difficulties in determining "best practice."

Contents of minerals in green leafy vegetables cultivated in soil fortified with different chemical fertilizers

Content of selected minerals in spinach (Spinacea oleracea) and ambat chuka (Rumex vesicarius) cultivated in soil fortified with different chemical fertilizers was determined in a pot experiment. Addition of NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium) fertilizer along with micronutrients, iron and zinc, enhanced the concentration of zinc, iron and magnesium in selected green leafy vegetables markedly (p < 0.05), while the concentration of copper was not altered significantly (p > 0.05). Potassium content in the green leafy vegetables was not affected (p > 0.05) by the addition of chemical fertilizers to soil. Spinach and ambat chuka differed remarkably in their mineral contents. Contents of potassium, zinc and copper were significantly high in spinach, while the contents of magnesium and iron were markedly high in ambat chuka (p < 0.05).

Synthesis of melithasterol A, a 5alpha,6alpha-epoxy-7alpha-hydroxy Delta(8)-steroid

A short, first synthesis of melithasterol A (3) utilizing microwave irradiation-induced isomerization of 5alpha,8alpha-epidioxy steroid (1) as the key step has been achieved in 80% yield.

Bull-specific effect on fertilization rate and viable embryo recovery in the superovulated buffalo (Bubalus bubalis)

This study was conducted to compare fertilization rate and viable embryo recovery rate in superovulated buffalo (n = 64) following insemination with semen from buffalo bulls (n = 5) having different fertility rates as determined by AI. Frozen-thawed semen from fertile bulls with similar post-thaw progressive motility and sperm morphology was used to inseminate buffalo at superovulatory estrus. Fertilization and viable embryo recovery rates differed among bulls, but this bull-specific effect was not related to the overall herd fertility rate as determined by AI in normal cyclic animals. These results indicate that individual bulls differ in their contribution to fertilization of superovulated donors and also to embryonic development, as determined by viable embryo recovery. Moreover, the results also suggest that buffalo bulls can be screened for optimal fertility and embryo recovery rates in superovulated donors. Further studies are warranted to ascertain the factors which contribute to such bull-specific effects.

New oxygenated africanenes from the soft coral sinularia dissecta

Three new oxygenated africanenes (1-3) have been isolated from the soft coral Sinularia dissecta and were characterized by spectral and chemical studies.

Factors affecting pregnancy rate following nonsurgical embryo transfer in buffalo (Bubalus bubalis): a retrospective study

The objectives of this study were to determine the pregnancy rate and factors affecting it following nonsurgical embryo transfer in buffalo. Donor buffalo were superovulated with FSH, and embryos collected nonsurgically were evaluated for stage of development and quality. They were transferred nonsurgically to 91 recipients on Days 5 to 7 of the natural (n = 52) or induced (n = 39) estrus (estrus = Day 0). The overall pregnancy rate of 24/91(26.4%) was higher than in earlier reports for buffalo but was much lower than in cattle. Pregnancy rates were not affected by season (autumn vs winter), side of transfer (right vs left uterine horn), or type of estrus (spontaneous vs induced). The pregnancy rate was high 11/27(40.7%) when donors and recipients were closely synchronized, while it was compromised when recipients were in estrus at +12 h (1/7, 14.3%) and at -12 h (5/27, 18.5%). Asynchrony beyond 12 h on either side resulted into conception failure. The pregnancy rate tended to increase with the increase in CL size of recipients, while stage of embryonic development had no effect. The transfer of an 8-cell embryo with a 16-cell embryo led to the birth of heterosexual twins, indicating that the uterine milieu of Day 5 to 6 recipients may be tolerated by the out-of-phase 8-cell embryo, at least in the presence of a more mature embryo. Embryo quality had the greatest effect on pregnancy rate as it was higher (P < 0.005) after the transfer of Grade I than Grade III embryos (6/10, 60.0% vs 3/36, 13.9%). Assessment of returns to estrus indicated that among nonpregnant recipients, 17/67 (25.4%) embryos never matured sufficiently to prevent luteolysis through maternal recognition of pregnancy (MRP), while 14/67 (20.8%) embryos probably died following MRP. These results indicate that efforts to increase pregnancy rate following embryo transfer in buffalo should include prevention of luteolysis during the first week of transfer and a reduction in the incidence of embryonic mortality.

A new 1,2-dihydroisoquinoline from the sponge petrosia similis

A new 1,2-dihydroisoquinoline (1) and a known isoquinolinequinone (2) have been isolated from the sponge Petrosia similis and characterized by the study of spectral data.

Effect of spraying selected pesticides on the contents of specified minerals in cabbage

The present study was conducted to assess the effect of spraying of pesticides on the content of minerals in cabbage harvested at varying waiting periods (0, 7, 14 and 21 days) after spraying. The amounts of phosphorus and zinc in cabbage were significantly (p < 0.05) decreased while those of iron, calcium and potassium were significantly (p < 0.05) increased by the sprayings of pesticides. At varying waiting periods after the spraying of pesticides calcium, phosphorus, zinc and potassium contents of cabbage were found to be decreased remarkably (p < 0.05) while the content of iron was increased significantly (p < 0.05). Between the two pesticides, the spraying of endosulfan exerted a more pronounced effect in altering the contents of minerals than the spraying of malathion.

Trace elements in spinach (Spinacia oleracea) cultivated in soil fortified with graded levels of iron

Trace elements in two varieties of spinach cultivated in soil with different levels of added iron were determined. Addition of iron to soil decreased potassium, sodium and magnesium contents in spinach markedly (p < 0.05), while the contents of zinc, manganese and copper in spinach were not significantly altered (p > 0.05). Differential behavior of spinach varieties was found in the zinc, manganese and sodium contents.

The results of surgical management of displaced tibial plateau fractures in the elderly

We retrospectively reviewed 32 elderly patients (mean age 71.7 years, range 66-83 years) with displaced tibial plateau fractures after a mean of 3.7 years (range 1-7 years) after operative treatment. Schatzker type 2 fracture was the commonest pattern of fracture (60.3 per cent). According to the modified Rasmussen clinical and radiographic criteria, there were nine excellent, 14 good, five fair and four poor results clinically, and 11 excellent, 12 good, six fair and three poor results radiographically. There was no significant correlation between the final radiographic appearance and clinical outcome. Fourteen patients mobilized postoperatively on a continuous passive motion machine followed by a cast brace had a better result than those mobilized in a cast brace alone, but the difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.29). Postoperative complications included deep vein thrombosis in two patients.

In vitro bioavailability of iron from spinach (Spinacea oleracea) cultivated in soil fortified with graded levels of iron and zinc

A pot-culture experiment was conducted to assess the bioavailability of iron from spinach cultivated in soil fortified with graded levels of iron and zinc (FeSO4 x 7H2(0) and ZnSO4 x 7H2(0), respectively). Applications of varying levels of iron to soil increased the total iron and phosphorus contents and decreased the zinc content (P < 0.05). The effect of applying varying levels of zinc was the opposite of on the minerals in spinach. The ascorbic acid content was remarkably reduced with varying levels of iron and zinc. Higher levels of zinc and lower levels of iron in the soil increased the bioavailability of iron from spinach (P < 0.05). In conclusion, the interactions of 15 ppm zinc with 30 ppm iron significantly enhanced the bioavailability of iron, total iron and zinc contents.

In vitro availability of iron from selected nuts and oilseeds

Availability of iron from sixteen varieties of selected nuts and oilseeds was assessed by in vitro method. Wide and significant variations were recorded in the contents of total and ionisable iron and in the bioavailability of iron of the nuts and oilseeds. The total iron content was the highest in nigre seeds and the lowest in linseed seeds. Bioavailability of iron was significantly high from pistachio nut and almond and markedly low from groundnut. Most of the nuts and oilseeds were found to have less than 10 percent of bioavailability of iron, hence, they were not considered as good sources of iron among plant foods.

Effects of different levels of intravenous alpha-linolenic acid and supplemental breast milk on red blood cell docosahexaenoic acid in very low birth-weight infants

Preterm infants weighing less than 1,500 g were started on total parenteral nutrition (TPN) if unable to tolerate full enteral feedings. They were randomly assigned to receive intravenous lipids containing either 4.2 or 9.0% alpha-linolenic acid to assess the effect on red blood cell (RBC) phospholipid polyenoic fatty acid composition, particularly docosahexaenoic acid (22:6n3) (DHA). DHA ultimately comes from alpha-linolenic acid (18:3n3), although there is evidence in human preterm infants that they require preformed DHA. After 1 week of TPN, infants were started on gradually increasing amounts of enteral feeding, breast milk, if elected by mothers, or premature milk formula (Preemie Enfamil). RBC phospholipid fatty acids were measured weekly. Results were evaluated comparing samples from week 1 and week 6. Supplying 9% alpha-linolenic acid in intravenous lipids did not prevent a fall in DHA by 6 weeks; however, infants receiving breast-milk feeding did not have a significant decrease in DHA. Studies are needed to evaluate supplying DHA in intravenous lipids.

Intussusception: a rare complication following abdominal hysterectomy

A 35-year-old parous woman was treated with abdominal hysterectomy for uterine myomata. The patient developed intussusception in the immediate postoperative period and was managed by laparotomy and manual reduction. The difficulties in diagnosis and management of this rare complication are discussed.

Postcoital vesico-vaginal fistula following surgery for cancer cervix

A 25-year-old parous woman was treated with radical hysterectomy for cancer of the cervix. Six months later she developed a vesico-vaginal fistula following coitus. The fistula was repaired and vaginal reconstruction performed. Sexual dysfunction and the need for vaginal reconstruction are discussed.

Isolation and mapping of a gene for protein synthesis initiation factor 4A and its expression during differentiation of murine erythroleukemia cells

Eukaryotic protein synthesis initiation factor 4A (eIF-4A), a 46-kDa polypeptide, is involved both in mRNA cap recognition and in the binding of mRNA to 40S ribosomal subunits. A 41-mer oligodeoxynucleotide probe was synthesized complementary to a portion of the published coding sequence of eIF-4A mRNA [Nielsen et al., Nucleic Acids Res. 13 (1985) 6867-6870] and used to screen a mouse genomic library. We have isolated and characterized a full-length clone from that library. The eIF-4A sequence is contained in eleven exons. The eleventh exon also has the 3'-nontranslated sequence and two separate polyadenylation sites. Northern-blot analysis of mouse poly(A)+RNA indicates that there are several distinct mRNA species coding for eIF-4A. Two of these contain the same coding sequence and differ only in the length of the 3'-nontranslated region. Two of the eIF-4A mRNAs are therefore likely to be the result of differential processing at the 3'-end. We have used a fragment of the genomic clone to measure the steady-state levels of eIF-4A mRNA during the induced differentiation of murine erythroleukemia cells. S1 nuclease protection experiments demonstrated that by the fourth day after induction eIF-4A mRNA declined to 25% of its steady-state level in uninduced cells. In contrast, the steady-state level of beta-globin mRNA increased dramatically during differentiation. In vitro transcription assays using nuclei isolated from uninduced and induced cells show that the rate of transcription of eIF-4A mRNA was 40% greater in differentiated cells, indicating a posttranscriptional component is involved in the regulation of the steady-state mRNA level.

Effects of prolonged versus acute indomethacin therapy in very low birth-weight infants with patent ductus arteriosus

Indomethacin has proven effective in closing the patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in most low birth weight (LBW) neonates with this disorder. Early reopening of the ductus is a problem and often leads to the need for surgery. Prolonged use of indomethacin for several days has been suggested as a means to alleviate this problem. The present study was designed to determine if prolonged therapy over 5 days is more effective than a two-dose regimen in preventing reopening of the PDA. Seventy neonates were randomized for either prolonged therapy over 1 week or to receive two doses of indomethacin. All infants were given two doses of indomethacin 0.15 mg per kg, 12h apart. The maintenance group received an additional 0.1 mg per kg daily for 5 days. Ten days after the infants' initial dose of indomethacin, 6 of 22 in the nonmaintenance group as compared to 0 of 22 in the maintenance group had reopening of their ductus arteriosus. Ten infants in the maintenance group eventually had the ductus reopen at a median of 29, range 11-66 days compared to a median of 3, range 2-44 days in the nonmaintenance group. Significantly fewer babies in the maintenance group had a grade II-IV intraventricular hemorrhage compared to the nonmaintenance group. There was no other significant difference in the two groups in the incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis, retrolental fibroplasia or death. Indomethacin given over 5 days is effective for closure of the ductus arteriosus and will prevent reopening until after the acute clinical course in babies under 1500 g; however, the overall incidence of reopening was not different.

Expression of a gene for mouse eucaryotic elongation factor Tu during murine erythroleukemic cell differentiation

The eucaryotic elongation factor Tu (eEF-Tu) is a single polypeptide with an approximate Mr of 53,000. During protein synthesis eEF-Tu promotes the binding of aminoacyl-tRNA to the ribosome. To study the expression of the gene(s) for this factor, a genomic clone was isolated that contains a mouse eEF-Tu gene. We screened a phage genomic library with a synthetic oligonucleotide probe complementary to a region of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Artemia sp. eEF-Tu genes which codes for an area that is highly conserved between both yeast and Artemia sp. eEF-Tu. From approximately 75,000 phage plaques we obtained five isolates with apparently identical inserts. All five clones contained a 3.8-kilobase EcoRI fragment that hybridized to additional oligonucleotide probes corresponding to different conserved regions of eEF-Tu. We sequenced the 5' end of one genomic clone and determined the length of the cloned fragment that was protected by eEF-Tu mRNA in S1 nuclease protection assays. A quantitative S1 nuclease protection assay was used to compare the relative steady-state levels of eEF-Tu mRNA in total mRNA in total RNA isolated from hexamethylene-bisacetamide-induced murine erythroleukemia cells. The results show a dramatic reduction in the steady-state level of eEF-Tu mRNA as differentiation proceeds. A similar reduction in transcription of eEF-Tu mRNA was observed in isolated nuclei. Finally, we examined the in vivo synthesis of eEF-Tu during differentiation and found that it declined in a manner parallel to the decline in the steady-state level of eEF-Tu mRNA. In addition, we have isolated and sequenced a cDNA clone for mouse eEF-Tu. The derived amino acid sequence is compared with sequences from other eucaryotes.

Nutritional Factors Affecting Growth and Production of Antimicrobial Substances by Streptococcus lactis subsp. diacetylactis S1-67/C

The present study pertains to the effect of nutritional factors on the growth and production of antimicrobial substances (AS) by Streptococcus lactis subsp. diacetylactis S₁-67/C. Among nine media tested, yeast extract dextrose broth supported good growth and maximum production of AS. Addition of beef extract and yeast extract at 1.0 and 0.6% levels, respectively, increased growth as well as production of AS. Of ten carbohydrates examined, maximum production of AS was achieved with 1% glucose followed by fructose, 4% molasses, lactose, sucrose, galactose, mannitol, maltose and 2% molasses. Xylose inhibited production of AS, although it stimulated growth of the organism. Peptone, tryptone and tryptose (each at the 1.5% level) significantly stimulated production of AS. Other nitrogen sources, including soytone, casein hydrolysate and proteose peptone, retarded production of inhibitory substances. Among the amino acids, L-leucine, DL-methionine and L-glutamic acid were most essential for growth and production of AS, whereas L-lysine, L-proline, DL-serine, DL-asparatic acid, L-arginine-HCl and DL-tryptophan were stimulatory. Other amino acids such as DL-ornithine, L-cysteine-HCl and DL-citrulline slightly stimulated AS production. In the presence of cynocobalmin, niacin, folic acid, calcium pantothenate and riboflavin, S. lactis subsp. diacetylactis S₁-67/C produced maximum amounts of inhibitory substances. Omission of individual mineral salts from the basal medium did not affect production of AS by the organism.

Preliminary Studies on Antimicrobial Activity of Streptococcus lactis subsp. diacetylactis

Streptococcus lactis subsp. diacetylactis is well-known for its ability to inhibit pathogenic and milk spoilage microorganisms. In this study, an attempt was made to standardize the method for estimation of antimicrobial activity of the organism. Fourteen strains of S. lactis subsp. diacetylactis were examined for production of antimicrobial substances and all strains were found to produce antimicrobial substances. Of the strains, strain DRC₁ produced maximum amounts of antimicrobial substances followed by strains DRC₂ and S₁. Mutants of S₁ (S₁-67/C and S₁-195) produced higher amounts of antimicrobial substances than all other strains tested. The antimicrobial properties of strains S₁-67/C were assessed against 28 bacterial and mold cultures. Cell-free filtrates of S₁-67/C strain were more inhibitory to gram-negative than gram-positive bacteria. This organism also inhibited the growth of Geotrichum candidum but failed to inhibit other molds tested in this study.

Documenting clinicopathologic consultations

The role of the clinical pathologist as a provider of services reimbursable under Medicare Part B is increasingly being challenged. This article reports how a group of pathologists is successfully providing consultations that meet the guidelines of Medicare and the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Hospitals.

Unusual case of laryngeal foreign body

The foreign bodies in respiratory tract have been major cause of morbidity and present as challenge to otolaryngologist. The spectrum of presentation varies widely from sudden death due to respiratory obstruction to accidental finding during routine investigation. One case of unusual presentation of laryngeal foreign body with loss of voice is described here. Key words: Respiratory obstruction laryngeal; foreign body DOI: 10.3126/jcmsn.v6i1.3601 Journal of College of Medical Sciences-Nepal, 2010, Vol. 6, No. 1, 44-46