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The objective was to implement green chemistry methodologies in the synthesis of Schiff bases. Natural berry fruit juice freeze-dried extract was employed as natural acid catalyst for the synthesis of N-(4-methoxy benzylidene) aniline from anisaldehyde and aniline, N-salicylideneaniline from salicylaldehyde and aniline, and N-benzylaniline from benzaldehyde and aniline. The Schiff base thus synthesized from natural berry fruit juice freeze-dried extract was characterized by FT-IR and NMR spectral techniques. The antioxidant skin efficacy of these Schiff bases was tested by application on the healthy human skin. The proposed green chemistry methods are convenient, affordable, simple, provide more efficient extraction, and show maximum efficiency.

Background: Methionine and choline supplementation can aid in nutritionally managing transition Surti buffaloes. Present study has evaluated blood biochemical metabolites, milk yield and its changes in composition on supplementation of rumen protected methionine (RPM) and choline (RPC) in transition Surti buffaloes. Methods: Twenty-seven pregnant multiparous Surti buffaloes in three groups (n=9) from -15 d to 30 d postpartum received supplementation as: T1 (Control: basal diet), T2 (basal diet + RPM@10 gm/animal/day) and T3 (basal diet + RPM@10 gm/animal/day + RPC@ 50 gm/animal/day). Sample was collected at beginning, 1st, 3rd and 6th week for blood and at 1st, 3rd, 6th, 9th and 12th week postpartum for milk. Milk yield was recorded upto 100 days postpartum. Result: Postpartum TC, HDL and VLDL differed significantly (P less than 0.05) being highest in T3 and lowest in control (T1) whereas it was reverse for NEFA and BHBA. Supplemented groups had significantly lower TG levels at 1st and 3rd week postpartum. Milk fat upto 9th and SNF, protein, lactose, TAS, Ca, P and Mg upto 6th week were significantly (P less than 0.05) highest in T3, followed by T2 and T1. It was concluded that RPC along with RPM supplementation is more beneficial than only RPM supplementation in terms of enhancing liver health, reducing negative energy balance and improving milk quality.

Background. Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis is a rare disease that affects 1 to 2 adults per million worldwide and often consists of systemic manifestations including pulmonary, intracranial and osteolytic lesions and endocrinologic abnormalities such as Diabetes Insipidus. Objective. The objective of this case report was to expand the medical literature of this rare disease. Methods. A case report of a 51-year-old female patient presenting with systemic symptoms as a result of Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis is presented. Results. A 51-year-old female presented with epistaxis, fatigue, polydipsia, polyuria, headaches and dyspnea. After initial x-rays showed multiple lung and liver nodules and the patient suffered subsequently from a unilateral pneumothorax, an open lung biopsy was recommended. On a pathological basis, the patient was diagnosed with Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis. This report focuses on the radiological presentations of the manifestations of Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis, particularly the presentations in the lung and intracranial regions. Conclusions. Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis is an incredibly rare disease that presents systemically. Recognizing and differentiating radiographic presentation of these patients is important to determine the need for confirmation by biopsy and early chemotherapeutic intervention.

A study was carried out to find out the retrospective incidence of uterine torsion in buffaloes among obstetrical cases in Amul milk shed area and factors influencing it. Data on 1,13,772 obstetrical cases attended from January 2017 to June 2018 by Amul Veterinarians were collected. Moreover, 50 buffaloes suffering from uterine torsion were taken up during July-December, 2018 to know the side, site, degree of uterine torsion, parity as well as sex and viability of the calf and the dam after detorsion/Caesarean section in the same area. In the retrospective study, a total of 2000 cases of uterine torsion were recorded among total 1,13,772 bovine obstetrical cases, which encompassed 1.76%. Of the 2000 cases, 92.20 (1844) percent torsions were found in buffaloes only. Among 57,111 obstetrical cases attended in buffaloes, the incidence of uterine torsion was 3.23%. Moreover, the region/center-wise incidence of torsion cases varied from 1.30–19.36%. The highest incidence of uterine torsion was found in Anand region (19.36 %) followed by Kathlal (11.23 %) and Mahemdabad (10.14 %) regions, while the lowest incidence was in Virpur (2.06%), Petlad (1.46%) and Piplata (1.30%). It was concluded that buffaloes mostly experience right side (100%), post-cervical (82%) uterine torsion of 270–360° (66%), at full term of gestation (70%)with lower survivability of the calves (30%), however, the survival rate of the dams post-treatment was 90%.

The serum progesterone and estradiol profiles during synchronization of estrus by buck effect and PGF2α treatments were monitored in Surti does. Total eighteen non-pregnant does selected were evenly divided into 3 groups, 6 does in each group. The does of Group I were teased with a sexuallyactive- apronized buck; and those of Group II were treated with PGF2α, i.e., Inj. Lutalyse® @ 7.5 mg/doe IM twice 11 days apart, while the Group III served as untreated control. Blood samples were collected from all the animals on day 0 (before 1st PGF2α injection), 3rd day (during treatment), 11th day (before 2nd PGF2α injection), 14th day (after treatment) and 40th day (post-service) by jugular vein puncture. The serum separated was stored at -20°C till further analysis. In all the three groups, 83.33% does, conceived at first service in the sampling cycle. The overall mean serum progesterone concentration of Group I does (5.82±0.72 ng/ml) was significantly higher (p less than 0.01) as compared to Group II (2.93±0.38 ng/ml) and III (2.88±0.30 ng/ml). Similarly, the overall mean serum progesterone concentration of Surti does on day 0 (2.65±0.46 ng/ml), 3rd (2.56±0.80 ng/ml), 11th (4.45±0.84 ng/ml) and 14th (3.40±0.63 ng/ml) did not differ significantly, but the overall mean level at day 40 (6.31±0.45 ng/ml) was significantly (p less than 0.01) higher, because most of animals became pregnant at that time. The overall mean serum oestradiol-17β levels of Group I (24.40±2.98 pg/ ml) was significantly higher (p less than 0.01) than in Group II (15.77±1.77 pg/ml) and III (12.21±1.45 pg/ ml). On the other hand, the overall mean serum oestradiol-17β levels of Surti does on day 0 (12.89±1.21 pg/ml), 3rd (15.84±1.74 pg/ml), 11th (14.81±1.96 pg/ml), 14th (22.15±2.97 pg/ml) and 40th (21.64±5.16 pg/ml) did not differ significantly (p>0.05) and the slightly higher overall mean level found at 40th day might be the influence of the non-pregnant does at first service in the cumulative animals. The hormonal profile reflected the initiation of cyclicity and establishment of pregnancy in treated and control animals.

This study was carried out on 18 postpartum anestrus Surti buffaloes, divided into three equal groups (6 in each) to evaluate the serum progesterone, oestradiol-17β, FSH and LH concentrations (by ELISA) before, during and after Ovsynch and Ovsynch + PRID protocols. Six anestrus buffaloes each were treated with standard Ovsynch protocol (T1) and Ovsynch along with PRID (Progesterone releasing intravaginal device) protocol (T2) with fixed-time AI (FTAI). Six anestrus buffaloes were kept as untreated control (T3). Blood samples were obtained from the animals on day 0 (before treatment), day 4 (during treatment), day 8 (after PGF2α injection), day of induced estrus/FTAI and day 18 post-AI (after treatment). The mean serum progesterone level on day 4 was significantly (p less than 0.01) higher in the T2 group as compared to T1 and T3 groups, while the level on day 8 was significantly (p less than 0.01) higher in both the treatment groups (T1 and T2) as compared to control group, however there was no significant difference (p>0.05) on the day of estrus between three groups. The mean serum oestradiol-17β and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) levels on 8th day were significantly higher (p less than 0.01) in both the treatment groups (T1 and T2) as compared to control group (T3). However, there was no significant difference on day 0, 4, day of estrus and day 18 post-AI between groups. The mean serum luteinizing hormone (LH) levels of acyclic buffaloes were not found significantly different (p>0.05) among days in any of the treatment and control groups. But the mean LH concentration on the day of estrus in the T1, T2 and T3 was significantly higher (p less than 0.01) and thereafter decreased markedly on 18th day post-AI in all the groups. The conception rates at FTAI/first estrus in three groups were 66.66%, 50.00% and 75.00%, respectively.

A study was carried out to interpret the first and second service conception rate along with serum macro-minerals profile for Heatsynch (T1) and Heatsynch + PRID (T2) protocols with fix timed AI in subestrus Surti buffaloes (n=6 each), keeping one group as untreated control (T3). In Heatsynch protocol, buffaloes were administered i.m. with Inj. Busereline acetate 10 μg on day 0, Inj. Cloprostenol sodium 500 μg on day 7 and Inj. oestradiol benzoate (EB) 0.5 mg on day 8 followed by FTAIs twice on day 10, while in Heatsynch + PRID protocol the buffaloes were inserted with PRID (0.96 g of progesterone) intravaginally for 7 days together with above Heatsynch protocol. Blood samples were collected aseptically in vaccutainers from all these animals on day 0 (prior to treatment), day 4 (during treatment), day 8 (after PGF2α inj.), day of induced estrus/FTAI and on day 28 (post-treatment, day 18 post-AI), and serum samples were stored at –20°C until analyzed. The buffaloes that became pregnant at 1st service (FTAI) in the treatment group T1 and T2 were 50.00 (3/6) and 66.66 (4/6) % and at 2nd cycle 100.00 (3/3) and 50.00 (1/2) %, respectively. The corresponding conception rates for control group T3 were 33.33 (2/6) and 50.00 (2/4) %. The overall pooled CRs of 2 cycles achieved in groups T1, T2 and T3 were 100.00 (6/6), 83.33 (5/6) and 66.66 (4/6) %, respectively. The overall mean serum calcium, phosphorus and magnesium values did not differ significantly (p>0.05) among T1, T2 and T3 groups at any day or within group between different sampling intervals. Heatsynch alone was better and economic over other groups in managing subestrus buffaloes.

Bismaleimide (BMI) resins are a new breed of thermosetting resins used mainly for high-temperature applications and have major usage in aerospace. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) studies have shown signatures of imide, C–N–C stretching, maleimide, and N–H stretching. These BMI polymer coatings were deposited on aluminum (Al) and mild steel substrates by sprinkling powers followed by baking. Thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetric studies showed the degradation temperature of these polymers around 370°C. Al coatings were deposited on BMI that is previously deposited on Al and mild steel to make a metal–BMI–metal trilayer. These trilayers can solve the problem charging of the aircraft bodies at high altitudes. Atomic force microscopy was done to determine the morphology of the surface. Roughness and thickness measurements of the BMI coatings were carried out by a surface profilometer. Vickers microhardness tests showed an increase in the hardness of the metal–BMI–metal trilayer. FTIR spectrum showed signatures of imides, C–N–C stretching, maleimide, and N–H stretching in BMI. Peak broadening indicates the release of the stress during thermal treatment of the coating. The coating is subject to variable Atmospheric Pressure Plasma Jet (APPJ) conditions, which improves the properties at high temperature. X-ray diffraction studies showed a hint of crystallinity on APPJ treatment.

AIM The study was undertaken to find out the changes in hematobiochemical profile in post-partum Surti goats. MATERIALS AND METHODS The present study was conducted on 40 Surti goats out of which 20 goats who had undergone recent parturition acted as treatment group and 20 non-pregnant animals comprised control group. Blood samples were collected from the treatment group on 0, 7, 14, 21, 30, and 45 days post kidding and once from the control group. Blood samples were analyzed for hematological parameters such as hemoglobin (Hb), packed cell volume (PCV), total erythrocyte count (TEC), total leukocyte count (TLC), differential leukocyte count, and biochemical metabolites such as total protein (TP), albumin, globulin, total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA), glucose, and urea. RESULTS Hb level was the highest on the 45(th) day and lowest on the day of parturition. Significantly low level of Hb, PCV, and lymphocyte was found on 0 day and significantly high level was found on the 45(th) day. TEC was also low on the 0 day and high on the 45(th) day post kidding, but the difference was non-significant. Mid-sized cells and granulocyte percentage decreased significantly from 0 to 45(th) day post-partum. TP, albumin, and urea were found to be lowest on 0 day and highest on 45(th) day post-partum. Urea concentration increased parallel to TP indicating an increase in urea production with catabolism of protein. The globulin concentration also increased from 0 to 45(th) day post-partum, but the difference was non-significant. TC, TG, and NEFA were the highest on 0 day and lowest on the 45(th) day post-partum. Decrease in TC and TG from 0 to 45(th) day post-partum indicates that the animals utilized the lipids for the supply of energy for milk production. High level of NEFA acts as an indicator of negative energy status but in the present study, the high glucose level on 0 day indicates that the animals were in positive energy status. The glucose concentration decreased up to 14(th) day post-partum and then started increasing from 21(st) day onward. CONCLUSION Hematobiochemical parameters are indicative of health status of animals. Significantly low values of Hb, PCV, and TLC during first 2 weeks post-partum are indicative of stress. Catabolism of protein occurred during 2 weeks post-partum, as observed from increase in urea concentration. Decrease TGs and high level of NEFA during the transition period are suggestive of utilization of lipids for the supply of energy. High glucose level on 0 day indicates that the animals were in positive energy status.

Considering the present scenario, it is observed that the response of the unreinforced masonry building during the earthquake conditions have resulted into significant damages in buildings and subsequent life loss. The conventional method of masonry construction adopted so far utilizes the same construction material as in confined masonry, however the construction technique differs for both. This study has considered the analysis, design and comparison of confined masonry wall with unreinforced masonry wall. The differences in the method of construction and the performance of both, under the seismic conditions has been considered through the study on a sample building. A user friendly tool in the form of Microsoft excel worksheet is to be generated to design a confined masonry wall. The study is aimed at determining the more economic construction between the unreinforced and confined masonry.

The present study was undertaken to study levels of vitamin A and β-carotene in blood of postpartum Surti goats. 40 Surti goats were selected comprising of 20 goats with recent parturition (treatment group) and 20 non-pregnant animals (control group). Blood collection was done on 0, 7, 14, 21, 30 and 45 day post-kidding (treatment group) and once from control group and analyzed for Vitamin A and β-carotene. Both the analytes were significantly low on 0 day. Significant difference (P Less Than 0.05) in vitamin A as well as β-carotene (P Less Than 0.01) was observed between 0 and 21st day postpartum followed by non-significant difference in vitamin A after 21 days. However, β-carotene values at 21st day significantly differed from those at 30th and 45th day. Non–significant difference between control and treatment group from 7th day onwards was observed in vitamin A. β-carotene values of treatment group were significantly lower at 0 and 21st day postpartum as compared to control. It was concluded that on the day of kidding there is decrease in circulatory levels of vitamin A and β-carotene and this decrease can be used as an indicator of stress.

The present study was undertaken to investigate changes in serum hormonal profile of post partum Surti goats. 20 recently parturated (treatment) goats and 20 non pregnant (control group) goats. Blood samples were collected from treatment group on 0, 7, 14, 21, 30 and 45 day post kidding and once from control group. Serum samples were analyzed for Tri-Iodothyronine (T3) and Tetra- Iodothyronine /Thyroxine (T4), cortisol, progesterone (P4) and estradiol, T4 and P4 were significantly low whereas cortisol and estradiol levels were significantly high on 0 day post partum. Onset of kidding was marked by increased cortisol and estrogen and decreased progesterone.

Present study was conducted to investigate postpartum oxidative stress in 20 Surti goats. Blood samples were collected on 0, 7th, 14th, 21st, 30th and 45th days postpartum and analysed for Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), Glutathione Peroxidase (GPx), lipid peroxidation (LPO), reduced Glutathione (GSH) and uric acid. SOD differed significantly between 0, 14th and 21st day postpartum. GPx was significantly low on 14th day and then increased significantly (P

Nuclear Structure of High Spin States-Selected Aspects

Matière Nucléaire; International audience; The gamma decay of the nuclei 124,125Ba has been investigated with the EUROBALL array, using the reaction 64Ni+64 Ni at E_{beam} = 255 and 261 MeV. Six new E1 transitions have been found in the nucleus 125Ba, suggesting a significant role of octupole correlations in the origin of its parity doublets. The pi = 3-level of the nucleus 124Ba has been identified for the first time. Its excitation energy is in very good agreement with a prediction based on a microscopic model including octupole interactions.

Seasonal incidence of haemoprotozoal diseases in crossbred cattle and buffalo was studied by examining 3152 and 1129 blood smears respectively, received from various veterinary sub centres located in Anand and Kaira districts of Gujarat during period from April 2009 to March 2010. The present study has recorded higher incidence of haemoprotozoal diseases in crossbred cattle and buffalo from June to September and June to August, respectively. In crossbred cattle, 1172 (37%) out of 3152 blood smears were positive for haemoprotozoal infection while in buffalo, 191 (17%) out of 1129 blood smears were positive for haemoprotozoal infection. In both the species, higher incidence of Theileriosis was recorded during monsoon season as compared to other protozoan diseases. [Vet. World 2012; 5(4.000): 223-225]

Silicon samples containing narrow boron markers were depth profiled using normally incident 0.25–1 keV O2+ ion beams in combination with secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS). The profiles revealed significant deviations from ideal delta distributions, either as tails or shoulders. All tracer profiles exhibited the well-known apparent shift towards the surface, which is due to the initial decrease in erosion rate. The peak positions, , showed a much more pronounced non-linear energy-dependent shift than the centroids, 〈z〉, up to a factor of 2 stronger. To evaluate the form of measured profiles, a reduced shape parameter is defined as Δ = 〈z〉 − . For ideal deltas, this parameter can be calculated using the analytical resolution function (rf) after Dowsett et al. Depending on the orientation and magnitude of the tracer distortions, the measured values of Δ differed from Δrf by up to 0.8 nm. This difference is attributed to the fact that the ‘weight’ of the distortions gives rise to a corresponding change of 〈z〉. The results imply that (relative) marker locations are determined more safely from than from 〈z〉. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

High spins states in 99Rh were populated via the 66Zn(37Cl, 2p2n)99Rh reaction at an incident beam energy of 130 MeV. Seventeen new transitions have been observed in the present study and the level scheme has now been extended up to a spin of J∼ 25ħ and an excitation energy of about E x∼ 10 MeV. The observation of a positive parity E2 cascade based on the 9/2+ isomeric level is suggestive of collective behaviour in this nucleus up to high spins. Spherical shell model (within restricted model space) and Cranked shell model calculations were performed to obtain an insight into the observed level structure. The new collective band observed up to a spin of J∼ 25ħ is suggested to be based on (πg 9/2 3) ⊗ (νg 7/2 2) quasi-particle excitations.

High spin states in the nucleus ${}^{107}\mathrm{In}$ have been investigated using the reaction ${}^{66}\mathrm{Zn}{(}^{45}\mathrm{Sc},2p2n)$ at a beam energy of 162 MeV. Levels up to a spin $\frac{33}{2}\ensuremath{\Elzxh}$ and an excitation energy 7 MeV have been established from \ensuremath{\gamma}-\ensuremath{\gamma} coincidence measurements. Two $\ensuremath{\Delta}I=1$ sequences have been observed, in addition to a large number of other states arising from single particle excitations. The configuration $\ensuremath{\pi}{g}_{9/2}^{\ensuremath{-}1}\ensuremath{\bigotimes}\ensuremath{\nu}{h}_{11/2}$ coupled to neutrons in the ${d}_{5/2}$ and ${g}_{7/2}$ orbitals appears to have a dominant contribution to the observed negative parity states.

The high spin structure of 80Rb has been investigated using the reaction 51V(32S,2pn) at a beam energy 105 MeV. The level scheme was established from γ-γ and recoil-γ-γ coincidence measurements obtained using the Gamma Detector Array consisting of eight Compton suppressed Ge detectors coupled to the recoil mass separator HIRA. Rotational states upto an excitation energy 13 MeV and a spin 25ħ were studied. Band crossings at ħω = 0.63 and 0.73 MeV in the negative parity band, due to successive g 9 2 proton and neutron alignment, were observed for the first time. Evidence has also been found for a hitherto unknown sideband. The yrast positive parity bands in 78Kr and 80Rb have similar transition energies beyond a rotational frequency ħω ≈ 0.55 MeV. This is the only known example of identical bands in nuclei differing by two quasiparticles, in this mass region.

Rotational states at high spins have been identified in the doubly odd nucleus ${}^{80}$Rb. A striking feature of the level scheme is that the transition energies in the $\ensuremath{\alpha}=1$ signature component of the positive parity band are quite similar to those of the yrast band in ${}^{78}$Kr. This is the only instance of identical bands at high spin, with a difference in seniority $\ensuremath{\Delta}\ensuremath{\nu}=2$, in this mass region.

Background & objectives: Regular practice of slow breathing has been shown to improve cardiovascular and respiratory functions and to decrease the effects of stress. This pilot study was planned to evaluate the short term effects of pranayama on cardiovascular functions, pulmonary functions and galvanic skin resistance (GSR) which mirrors sympathetic tone, and to evaluate the changes that appear within a short span of one week following slow breathing techniques. Methods: Eleven normal healthy volunteers were randomized into Pranayama group (n=6) and a non-Pranayama control group (n=5); the pranayama volunteers were trained in pranayama, the technique being Anuloma-Viloma pranayama with Kumbhak. All the 11 volunteers were made to sit in similar environment for two sessions of 20 min each for seven days, while the pranayama volunteers performed slow breathing under supervision, the control group relaxed without conscious control on breathing. Pulse, GSR, blood pressure (BP) and pulmonary function tests (PFT) were measured before and after the 7-day programme in all the volunteers. Results: While no significant changes were observed in BP and PFT, an overall reduction in pulse rate was observed in all the eleven volunteers; this reduction might have resulted from the relaxation and the environment. Statistically significant changes were observed in the Pranayama group volunteers in the GSR values during standing phases indicating that regular practice of Pranayama causes a reduction in the sympathetic tone within a period as short as 7 days. Interpretation & conclusions: Beneficial effects of pranayama started appearing within a week of regular practice, and the first change appeared to be a reduction in sympathetic tone.

Breast feeding, though an important and efficient contraceptive method, suffers from one major limitation: the contraceptive protection it offers the nursing mother ends abruptly without giving any physical indication of the return of fertility. Barrier methods and progesterone-only hormonal contraceptives, either in the oral, implant or injectable form, appear to be the primary contraceptive alternative for the nursing mother today. They neither adversely affect lactation, nor does the minute quantity of progesterone (NET or LNG) transferred to the infant affect its growth and physical well-being. Puerperal insertion of IUD carries an inherent risk of pelvic inflammatory disease, high expulsion rates and menorrhagia, once menses resume. Combination contraceptives affect both the quality and quantity of breastmilk; hence they are not recommended. Sterilization is a permanent method and therefore useful only when the family has been completed.

This work presents for the first time the high-spin information on the odd-odd neutron deficient nucleus [sup 92]Tc. We have used the reaction [sup 64]Zn([sup 35]Cl,4[ital p]3[ital n])[sup 92]Tc at a beam energy of 140 MeV to populate high-spin states in the [ital N]=49 nucleus [sup 92]Tc. Gamma-ray intensities and [gamma]-[gamma] coincidences were measured. Nineteen new transitions have been found and placed in a level scheme. The positive and negative parity bands have been extended tentatively up to a spin of 17[sup +] and 21[sup [minus]], respectively. The level scheme can be reasonably well understood within the ([ital p][sub 1/2],[ital g][sub 9/2]) model space and breaking of the [ital N]=50 neutron core. We have observed two discrepancies in the earlier work on the low-lying states in [sup 92]Tc.

Gelastic syncope or laughter-induced syncope is a rare disease often misdiagnosed as narcolepsy or cataplexy. We report a 54-year-old man with syncopal episodes. Each episode started after laughter, leading to light-headedness with blurring of vision and loss of consciousness for a few seconds. The episodes resolved spontaneously. The treatment of gelastic syncope is the same as that for neurally mediated syncope.

In India 30 healthy women aged 20-35 who were exclusively breast feeding participated in a study which examined how infants deal with levonorgestrel (LNG) in breast milk. This study aimed to determine at what age of the infant lactating mothers can begin using LNG contraceptives. Every day for a 5 week period all the women took a Microlut pill containing 30 mcg LNG. The 3 groups of women were divided by the age of their infants: 4 week old infants 12 week old infants and 24 week old infants. In all 3 groups the maternal LNG levels fell with time. There was no significant difference in LNG levels between the 1st and 5th week of LNG use. The 4 hour LNG levels were highest in 24 week old infants (35 pg/ml) and lowest in 12 week old infants (13 pg/ml). During the 5th study week 4 week old infants had significantly higher LNG levels than did the 24 week old infants (15 vs. 5 pg/ml). The 4 week old infants cleared the maternal LNG at a much slower rate than the 24 week old infants. The 12 week old infants cleared it at an intermediary level. This study showed that the LNG metabolizing capacity of 12 week old infants is more developed than their LNG absorbing capacity. These findings suggest that 24 week old infants absorb and metabolize LNG more efficiently than 4 and 12 week old infants. Since 12 week olds can clear maternal LNG rather efficiently the authors recommend 12 weeks postpartum as a time to begin LNG contraceptive use in lactating mothers.

High spin states in theN=50 nucleus93Tc were reinvestigated by using the reaction64Zn (35Cl,4p 2n) at a beam energy of 140 MeV. This was done particularly with a view to observe anyγ rays upto 2.7 MeV which may have been missed in our earlier study where the experimental conditions were set to observeγ rays upto 2 MeV. We found four newγ rays of energy: 2484, 2164, 2130 and 69 keV. We have placed theseγ rays in the level scheme and it now gets extended to 49/2−. Though there is no substantial change in the level scheme, placing theγ rays in the level scheme has resulted into two important conclusions: (1) We have performed shell model calculations for93Tc nucleus within a model space which encompasses an enlarged proton configuration and allows for the excitation of the neutron across theN=50 core. The excitation of a single neutron across theN=50 core satisfactorily explains the new level scheme. (2) The energy of the 17/2− isomeric state is now unambiguously placed at 2185 keV.

A sensitive and specific, enzyme labelled immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for 6 beta-hydroxycortisol in diluted urine using penicillinase was developed. 6 beta-Hydroxycortisol-21-hemisuccinate was conjugated with enzyme penicillinase. Antibody immobilized on a polyvinylchloride ELISA plate (Dynatech) was used for separation of bound from free ligand. The sensitivity of the assay was between 2.0-3.0 pg per well and recovery of 6 beta-hydroxycortisol from urine ranged between 85.0-108.0%. The assay is simple, rapid and precise.

The objective of the present investigation was to prepare mucoadhesive microspheres of ketorolac for nasal administration by means of a solvent evaporation technique using carbopol (CP), polycarbophil (PL) and chitosan (CS) as mucoadhesive polymers. The prepared microspheres were characterized for morphology, swelling behavior, mucoadhesion, interaction studies, drug encapsulation efficiency, in vitro drug release, release kinetics, and ex vivo nasal cilio toxicity studies. The effects of various process variables on the particle size of the microspheres were investigated. Drug encapsulation efficiency and particle size of the microspheres ranged from 52-78% w/w and 14-46 microm respectively. Interaction studies revealed that there were no drug-polymer interactions. The in vitro release profiles showed prolonged-release of the drug. In vitro release data showed a good fit with the Higuchi model, and indicated Fickian diffusion. No severe damage was found to the integrity of nasal mucosa after ex vivo experiments.

High spin states in the N=50 nucleus $^{93}\mathrm{Tc}$ were populated and studied using the reaction $^{66}\mathrm{Zn}$ ${(}^{31}$P, 2p2n${)}^{93}$Tc at a beam energy of 115 MeV. Gamma ray intensities and gamma-gamma coincidences were measured. Multipolarities of the transitions were extracted assuming stretched transitions. The positive and negative parity bands have been extended up to spins 39/${2}^{+}$ and 43/${2}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}}$, respectively. The proposed level scheme above J=25/2 cannot be well understood on the basis of the spherical shell model calculations with valence protons occupying the (1${\mathit{f}}_{5/2}$,2${\mathit{p}}_{3/2}$,2${\mathit{p}}_{1/2}$,1${\mathit{g}}_{9/2}$) configuration space. The breaking of the N=50 neutron core appears to be a plausible mechanism for the observed high spin states.

Foscarnet is an antiviral agent widely used in the treatment of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection. We describe a cardiac transplant patient, who while being maintained with hemodialysis because of tobramycin-induced acute renal failure, was given Foscarnet for disseminated CMV infection. Using dialysate-side clearance methodology, we found the dialyzer clearance of Foscarnet to be in the order of 89 ml/min. (Int J Artif Organs 2000; 23: 165–7)

Pulmonary lesions following paraquat poisoning are believed to be almost invariably fatal. The three patients reports here survived despite persistent radiological change. One of the patients died after taking a larger dose of paraquat one year later, and at necropsy histological changes attributable to the two episodes of paraquat poisoning were apparent.

A simple method is described for calibrating the dose of impurity depth profiles in Si, SiO2, and SiO2 on Si by secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS). Use is made of the fact that, with normally incident O2+ beams, the ionization probabilities of impurity and matrix secondary ions as well as the partial Si sputtering yields are the same for Si and SiO2. This allows dose calibration against a reference sample to be achieved for any sequence of layers of the two materials and without depth calibration. SIMS profiles of 5 keV 11B equal-dose implants in Si, SiO2, and a thin layer of SiO2 on Si show that the concept is valid to ±1% or better. Differences in the reflection coefficient of 11B from the different targets could be identified clearly.

Daily urinary follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone (T) levels were estimated in a group of 10 normal one month old male infants. Four-hourly urine samples were collected from each infant over a three months period i.e., from one month to four months of infants age. The hormonal levels were expressed as mIU of FSH, LH and ng of T per mg creatinine. The normal hormonal pattern thus obtained could be used to compare patterns obtained from pathological cases or when monitoring the effects of drugs on infants.

High-spin states in Ba-124 were investigated in two experiments using the Ni-64(Ni-64, 4n)Ba-124 reaction at three different beam energies. In-beam gamma-ray coincidences were measured with the Eur ...

A systematic investigation of the shears mechanism in silver isotopes has been carried out. Lifetimes have been measured by means of the Doppler-shift attenuation method for states in two magnetic dipole ($M1$) bands in $^{105}\mathrm{Ag}$ and one each in $^{103}\mathrm{Ag}$ and $^{106}\mathrm{Ag}$. Experimental total angular momenta and reduced transition strengths for these bands have been compared with the predictions of the tilted axis cranking (TAC) model with configurations involving one ${g}_{9/2}$ proton and quasineutrons from the ${h}_{11/2}$ and ${g}_{7/2}$ or ${d}_{5/2}$ orbitals. There is good overall agreement for both the total angular momenta and reduced transition strengths. The deduced $B(M1)$ strengths, which are a sensitive probe of magnetic rotation, show a decrease consistent with TAC predictions for one $M1$ band in $^{105}\mathrm{Ag}$ and in $^{106}\mathrm{Ag}$, confirming the shears mechanism as the means of excitation. Furthermore, the staggering in the transition energies in $^{103}\mathrm{Ag}$ and absence of regular sequences of $M1$ transitions for $N\ensuremath{\le}56$ suggest that $N=56$ is the lower boundary for the appearance of the shears mechanism in this mass region.

The gamma decay of the nuclei Ba-124,Ba-125 has been investigated by means of the EUROBALL spectrometer, coupled to the DIAMANT array of charged-particle detectors, using the reaction Ni-64 + Ni-64 ...

Recent insights into the Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome. The Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome (SLOS) is an autosomal recessive multiple congenital anomaly/mental retardation disorder caused by an inborn error of post-squalene cholesterol biosynthesis. Deficient cholesterol synthesis in SLOS is caused by inherited mutations of 3beta-hydroxysterol-Delta7 reductase gene (DHCR7). DHCR7 deficiency impairs both cholesterol and desmosterol production, resulting in elevated 7DHC/8DHC levels, typically decreased cholesterol levels and, importantly, developmental dysmorphology. The discovery of SLOS has led to new questions regarding the role of the cholesterol biosynthesis pathway in human development. To date, a total of 121 different mutations have been identified in over 250 patients with SLOS who represent a continuum of clinical severity. Two genetic mouse models have been generated which recapitulate some of the developmental abnormalities of SLOS and have been useful in elucidating the pathogenesis. This mini review summarizes the recent insights into SLOS genetics, pathophysiology and potential therapeutic approaches for the treatment of SLOS.

Sitosterolaemia is a rare autosomal recessive disease characterized by increased intestinal absorption of plant sterols, decreased hepatic excretion into bile and elevated concentrations in plasma phytosterols. Homozygous or compound heterozygous loss of function mutations in either of the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) proteins ABCG5 and ABCG8 explain the increased absorption of plant sterols. Here we report a Swiss index patient with sitosterolaemia, who presented with the classical symptoms of xanthomas, but also had mitral and aortic valvular heart disease. Her management over the last 20 years included a novel therapeutic approach of high-dose cholesterol feeding that was semi-effective. Mutational and extended haplotype analyses showed that our patient shared this haplotype with that of the Amish-Mennonite sitosterolaemia patients, indicating they are related ancestrally.