Lagophthalmos: An etiological lookout to frame the decision for management

Purpose:

To describe the etiology, clinical profile, duration of lagophthalmos cases and thereby, framing a decision for the management based on the severity of Exposure keratitis (EK), Facial palsy (FP) with each etiology and to describe the outcome of the management options.

Methods:

The method was a prospective review of 120 lagophthalmos cases treated at a single tertiary center from January 2018 to January 2019. The main outcome measures were analysing the association between age, etiology, duration and management of lagophthalmos.

Results:

Of the 120 patients studied, paralytic etiology was noted in 86 and eyelid etiology in 34 patients. The percentage of various lagophthalmos etiology documented were Bell’s palsy (35.83%), lagophthalmos in ICU patients (15%), traumatic facial palsy(FP) (10.80%), stroke associated FP (6.67%), infection associated FP (6.67%), iatrogenic FP, cicatricial lagophthalmos (5%), lagophthalmos post eyelid surgeries (5%), neoplastic FP(3.33%), congenital FP (1.67%), proptosis induced lagophthalmos (1.67%), floppy eyelid syndrome induced lagophthalmos (0.83%) and lid coloboma associated lagophthalmos (0.83%). A statistically significant correlation was noted between exposure keratitis and age, with an increased prevalence age advances. The management showed significant variation with individual etiology, with some etiologies unquestionably requiring surgical management. Surgical management is crucial as the duration of lagophthalmos increases more than 6 weeks, EK involving pupillary axis and poor FP recovery.

Conclusion:

This study concludes that the conservative management was sufficient in all cases when the duration is less than 1 week, Exposure keratitis not involving the pupillary axis (EK< Grade II) and FP with good functional recovery ( FP < Grade III). The predominant causes being Bell’s palsy, lagophthalmos in ICU patients and vascular FP. Whereas, cases with poor functional recovery of facial palsy(FP) and permanent eyelid deformation require definitive surgical management like Traumatic FP & cicatricial lagophthalmos.

Altered levels of neurobiological biomarkers at the interface of depression and gestational diabetes mellitus in Asian Indian women

AIM

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) might predispose the mothers to depression. Studies have reported the role of biomarkers either in GDM or depression, but very few have examined them in GDM with depression. The present study profiled the circulating levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), Beta Endorphin (BE) and nesfatin-1 in women with GDM (with and without depression).

METHODS

160 pregnant women at 24-28 weeks of pregnancy (NGT/GDM with & without depression, n = 40 each) were randomly selected from the ongoing STRiDE (STratification of Risk of Diabetes in Early pregnancy) study. Depression score was derived using PHQ-9 questionnaire and ELISA was used to quantify the biomarkers.

RESULTS

Circulatory levels of BDNF, BE and nesfatin-1 were lower in GDM women with or without depression compared to NGT without depression, however, nesfatin-1 levels were higher in NGT with depression. Notably, GDM with depression had the lowest levels of BDNF and BE. Both BDNF and BE levels were negatively correlated with depression, 1 h and 2 h plasma glucose. Regression analysis confirmed that each standard deviation decreases in BDNF and BE were independently associated with higher odds of GDM with or without depression even after adjusting for potential confounders.

CONCLUSION

Our study has identified altered levels of a panel of neurobiological biomarkers (BDNF/BE/nesfatin-1) in those with combined GDM and depression. BDNF/BE could be potential biomarkers to assess the higher risk of coexisting depression and GDM.

A Review on Transdermal Drug Delivery Patches

Human civilizations have used substances to the skin as cosmetic and therapeutic agents for thousands of years. The skin, on the other hand, was not exploited as a drug delivery method until the twentieth century. The term “transdermal” was first used in 1944 by Merriam Webster, indicating that it is a relatively new notion in medicinal and pharmacological practice. Transdermal medicines are doses that are self-contained and distinct. To produce a systemic effect, drugs are delivered through the skin. Without causing any changes in the drug’s plasma concentration Topical application of medicinal medicines has a number of advantages. There are numerous advantages to this technique of drug delivery over traditional oral and invasive approaches. Also, ensure that the fluid is released in a regulated manner. A medication for a long amount of time. As a result, a variety of chemical and physical approaches to transdermal patch development are being investigated.

Molecular insights of hyaluronic acid - ethambutol and hyaluronic acid - isoniazid drug conjugates act as promising novel drugs for the treatment of tuberculosis

The present study examines cellular targeted drug delivery (CTDD) pattern of two novel Hyaluronic acid (HA) Tuberculosis Drug (TB) conjugates and its efficacy and strong binding affinity towards TB molecular protein targets. Two TB drugs ethambutol (EB) and isoniazid (IN) and their Hyaluronic acid conjugates (HA-EB & HA-IN) were tested for its metabolism, toxicity and excretion prediction through In silico tools they revealed hyaluronic acid conjugate of two TB drugs exhibited good drug profile over their free form of TB drugs. Further these four molecules subjected to In silico molecular docking study with four potential Mycobacterium tuberculosis target proteins (3PD8, 4Y0L, 5DZK and 6GAU). Molecular docking study revealed that hyaluronic conjugates (HA-EB & HA-IN) exhibit significant binding affinity and excellent docking scores with all screened molecular protein targets of TB over their free form of drug. Further molecular dynamic simulation was calculated for the four drug molecules (EB, IN, HA- EB & HA-IN) with DNA gyrase enzyme (PDB ID 6GAU) of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and the MDS results revealed that both the conjugates with the TB target protein possessed good number of interaction with binding pocket residues and good simulation scores than the free form of drugs.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Association between number of abnormal glucose values and severity of fasting plasma glucose in IADPSG criteria and maternal outcomes in women with gestational diabetes mellitus

AIMS

The International Association for Diabetes in Pregnancy Study Group (IADPSG) criteria recommend a single-step diagnostic oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) for diagnosis of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). The aim of this study was to examine the association between the number of abnormal glucose values and levels of FPG with pregnancy outcomes.

METHODS

Pregnant women (n=1,044) were screened for GDM at maternity centers in South India using IADPSG criteria. OGTTs were classified based on the number of abnormal glucose values (any one value or more than one value high) and fasting plasma glucose (FPG) values (<92mg/dl,92-100mg/dl,>100mg/dl) and correlated with pregnancy outcomes. Odds ratio were adjusted for age, BMI, gestational week at diagnosis, family history of diabetes, previous history of GDM, gestational week at delivery and birth weight. For macrosomia and large for gestation age, birth weight was excluded from the model.

RESULTS

Risk of caesarean section was significantly higher in women with any one abnormal glucose value (OR: 1.49; 95%CI: 1.07-2.09). This further increased in those with >1 value (OR: 1.35; 95%CI: 0.87-2.10), when compared to women with all values normal. Risk of large for gestation age (LGA) was higher in women with FPG 92-100mg/dl (OR: 1.37; 95%CI: 0.80-2.35) and in those with FPG >100mg/dl (OR: 1.87; 95%CI: 1.04-3.35), compared to those with FPG <92mg/dl.

CONCLUSIONS

The risk for poor pregnancy outcomes starts in those with one abnormal value in the OGTT or with FPG >92mg/dl but becomes significantly higher in those with higher abnormal values.

Role of magnetic resonance imaging in temporomandibular joint ankylosis - An evaluative study

Introduction

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) ankylosis is a pathologic condition where the mandible is fused to the fossa by bony or fibrotic tissues. Haemorrhage is one of the major complications during TMJ surgery especially in ankyloses due to altered anatomy. The aim of the study was to analyse the proximity of the vasculature to the TMJ region in TMJ ankylosis patients using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

Materials and Methods:

Noncontrast-enhanced MRI images of seven patients were assessed. The distance between maxillary artery and neck of condyle/ankylotic mass was measured using coronal sections and distance between the internal carotid artery (ICA), internal jugular vein (IJV) and medial edge of condyle/bony mass were measured using axial sections.

Results:

The mean distance of internal maxillary artery (IMA) to medial edge of ankylotic mass was 1 ± 0.57 mm and 2 ± 1.2 mm-left and right condylar regions respectively (range: 0–4 mm).The mean distance from lateral aspect of ankylotic mass to IMA was 8.2 ± 1.4 mm and 8.7 ± 2.8 mm–right and left condylar regions respectively (range: 3–11 mm).The mean distance from medial edge of condyle to ICA was 18.8 ± 1.3 mm and 18.2 ± 1.1 mm-right and left condylar regions respectively (range: 17 mm–20 mm).The mean distance from the medial edge of condyle to IJV was 16.4 ± 1.1 mm and 14.5 ± 2.9 mm-right and left condylar regions (range: 11 mm–19 mm).

Discussion:

These measurements were used as a guide to plan the steps during surgery in order to minimise the intraoperative haemorrhagic complications. Hence, MRI may be considered as a valuable tool in assessing the juxtaposition of vascular bed to TMJ region, though contrast MRI and a larger sample is needed to standardise.

A Study on the Identification and Comparison of Functional Components in Different Species of Passion Fruit Vine Leaves

Functional components are found abundantly in plants which are non-nutritive and bio active compounds that prevents the onset of degenerative diseases and protects the body by maintaining the health.  The objective of this study is to identify the chemical components of different varieties of passion fruit leaves (Passiflora edulis f. flavicarpa,Passifloraedulisf. edulis and Passiflora quadrangularis) available wildly in the hills of Tamil Nadu, India. Young tender passion fruit leaves can be used as a raw leafy green as they contain vitamin A and niacin. The dried leaves are used for calming teas and herbal remedies. The functional components were identified using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy FTIR(ATR) spectrophotometer. The leaves contain polyphenols, triterpenes, carotenoids, polysaccharides, amino acids and flavonoids which have a lot of beneficial effect on human health especially in preventing degenerative diseases. This paves way to use these amazing abundant greens in clinical studies as ayurvedic preparations and treat illness naturally.

Molecular insights of hyaluronic acid-hydroxychloroquine conjugate as a promising drug in targeting SARS-CoV-2 viral proteins

In-silico anti-viral activity of Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) and its Hyaluronic Acid-derivative (HA-HCQ) towards different SARS-CoV-2 protein molecular targets were studied. Four different SARS-CoV-2 proteins molecular target i.e., three different main proteases and one helicase were chosen for In-silico anti-viral analysis. The HA-HCQ conjugates exhibited superior binding affinity and interactions with all the screened SAR-CoV-2 molecular target proteins with the exception of a few targets. The study also revealed that the HA-HCQ conjugate has multiple advantages of efficient drug delivery to its CD44 variant isoform receptors of the lower respiratory tract, highest interactive binding affinity with SARS-CoV-2 protein target. Moreover, the HA-HCQ drug conjugate possesses added advantages of good biodegradability, biocompatibility, non-toxicity and non-immunogenicity. The prominent binding ability of HA-HCQ conjugate towards Mpro (PDB ID 5R82) and Helicase (PDB ID 6ZSL) target protein as compared with HCQ alone was proven through MD simulation analysis. In conclusion, our study suggested that further in-vitro and in-vivo examination of HA-HCQ drug conjugate will be useful to establish a promising early stage antiviral drug for the novel treatment of COVID-19.

A Review on Deep Learning Architecture and Methods for MRI Brain Tumour Segmentation

BACKGROUND

The automatic segmentation of brain tumour from MRI medical images is mainly covered in this review. Recently, state-of-the-art performance is provided by deep learning- based approaches in the field of image classification, segmentation, object detection, and tracking tasks.

INTRODUCTION

The core feature deep learning approach is the hierarchical representation of features from images, thus avoiding domain-specific handcrafted features.

METHODS

In this review paper, we have dealt with a review of Deep Learning Architecture and Methods for MRI Brain Tumour Segmentation. First, we have discussed the basic architecture and approaches for deep learning methods. Secondly, we have discussed the literature survey of MRI brain tumour segmentation using deep learning methods and its multimodality fusion. Then, the advantages and disadvantages of each method are analyzed and finally, it is concluded with a discussion on the merits and challenges of deep learning techniques.

RESULTS

The review of brain tumour identification using deep learning.

CONCLUSION

Techniques may help the researchers to have a better focus on it.

Substance and shadow of formamidinium lead triiodide based solar cells

The current decade has witnessed a surge of progress in the investigation of methyl ammonium lead iodide (MAPbI3) perovskites for solar cell fabrication due to their intriguing electro-optical properties, despite the intrinsic degradation of the material that has restricted its commercialisation. As a promising alternative, solar cells based on its formamidinium analogue, FAPbI3, are currently being actively pursued for having demonstrated a certified efficiency of 24.4%, while the room-temperature conversion to a non-perovskite δ-phase impedes its further commercialisation, and strategies have been adopted to overcome this phase instability. An in-depth and real-time understanding of microstructural relationships with optoelectronic properties and their underlying mechanisms using operando in situ spectroscopic techniques is paramount. Thus, the design and development of a new process, data driven methodology, characterization and evaluation protocols for perovskite absorber layers and the fabricated devices is a judicious research direction. Here, in this perspective, we shed light on the compositional, surface engineering and crystallization kinetics manipulations for FAPbI3, followed by a proposition for unified testing protocols, for scalling of devices from the lab to the market.

A comparative study on delay-tolerant network routing protocols

Purpose

In this study, we discuss three DTN routing protocols, these are epidemic, PRoPHET and spray and wait routing protocols. A special simulator will be used; that is opportunistic network environment (ONE) to create a network environment. Spray and wait has highest delivery rate and low latency in most of the cases. Hence, spray and wait have better performance than others. This analysis of the performance of DTN protocols helps the researcher to learn better of these protocols in the different environment.

Design/methodology/approach

Delay-Tolerant Network (DTN) is a network designed to operate effectively over extreme distances, such as those encountered in space communications or on an interplanetary scale. In such an environment, nodes are occasional communication and are available among hubs, and determinations of the next node communications are not confirmed. In such network environment, the packet can be transferred by searching current efficient route available for a particular node. Due to the uncertainty of packet transfer route, DTN is affected by a variety of factors such as packet size, communication cost, node activity, etc.

Findings

Spray and wait have highest delivery rate and low latency in most of the cases. Hence, spray and wait have better performance than others.

Originality/value

The primary goal of the paper is to extend these works in an attempt to offer a better understanding of the behavior of different DTN routing protocols with delivery probability, latency and overhead ratio that depend on various amounts of network parameters such as buffer size, number of nodes, movement ratio, time to live, movement range, transmission range and message generation rate. In this study, we discuss three DTN routing protocols: these are epidemic, PRoPHET and spray and wait routing protocols. A special simulator will be used; that is opportunistic network environment (ONE) to create a network environment. Spray and wait have highest delivery rate and low latency in most of the cases. Hence, spray and wait have better performance than others. This analysis of the performance of DTN protocols helps the researcher to learn better of these protocols in the different environment.

Isolated HbA1c identifies a different subgroup of individuals with type 2 diabetes compared to fasting or post-challenge glucose in Asian Indians: The CARRS and MASALA studies

AIMS

Guidelines recommend hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) as a diagnostic test for type 2 diabetes, but its accuracy may differ in certain ethnic groups.

METHODS

The prevalence of type 2 diabetes by HbA1c, fasting glucose, and 2 h glucose was compared in 3016 participants from Chennai and Delhi, India from the CARRS-2 Study to 757 Indians in the U.S. from the MASALA Study. Type 2 diabetes was defined as fasting glucose ≥ 7.0 mmol/L, 2-h glucose ≥ 11.1 mmol/L, or HbA1c ≥ 6.5%. Isolated HbA1c diabetes was defined as HbA1c ≥ 6.5% with fasting glucose < 7.0 mmol/L and 2 h glucose < 11.1 mmol/L.

RESULTS

The age, sex, and BMI adjusted prevalence of diabetes by isolated HbA1c was 2.9% (95% CI: 2.2-4.0), 3.1% (95% CI: 2.3-4.1), and 0.8% (95% CI: 0.4-1.8) in CARRS-Chennai, CARRS-Delhi, and MASALA, respectively. The proportion of diabetes diagnosed by isolated HbA1c was 19.4%, 26.8%, and 10.8% in CARRS-Chennai, CARRS-Delhi, and MASALA respectively. In CARRS-2, individuals with type 2 diabetes by isolated HbA1c milder cardio-metabolic risk than those diagnosed by fasting or 2-h measures.

CONCLUSIONS

In Asian Indians, the use of HbA1c for type 2 diabetes diagnosis could result in a higher prevalence. HbA1c may identify a subset of individuals with milder glucose intolerance.

Dissipation kinetics of beta-cyfluthrin and imidacloprid in tea and their transfer from processed tea to infusion

Dissipation kinetics of mixed formulation consisting beta-cyfluthrin and imidacloprid in tea crop under an open field ecosystem was investigated. The mixed formulation was applied on tea plant at recommended (27 + 63) and double the recommended (54 + 126g a.i./ha) dose and residues were determined using gas chromatography-electron capture detector and high performance liquid chromatography-photodiode array detector for beta-cyfluthrin and imidacloprid, respectively. The limit of quantification of analytical method was 0.05µg/g and the average recoveries were ranged from 88.36% to 103.49% with relative standard deviations of less than 6% at three spiked levels. The experimental results showed that in the green tea leaves imidacloprid dissipated faster than beta-cyfluthrin with the half-life ranging between 1.20-1.39 and 2.89-3.15days, respectively. The beta-cyfluthrin residues present in the processed tea not transferred into the tea infusion during the infusion process and imidacloprid transferred in the range 43.12-49.7%. On the basis of the transfer of residues from processed tea to infusion, a waiting period of 17 days for tea plucking after pesticide application at recommended dose may be suggested.

Is the "South Asian Phenotype" Unique to South Asians?: Comparing Cardiometabolic Risk Factors in the CARRS and NHANES Studies

BACKGROUND

In the context of rising obesity in South Asia, it is unclear whether the "South Asian phenotype"(described as high glucose, low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and high triglycerides at normal ranges of body weight) continues to be disproportionately exhibited by contemporary South Asians relative to other race/ethnic groups.

OBJECTIVES

We assessed the distinctiveness of the South Asian cardiometabolic profile by comparing the prevalence of combined high glucose, high triglycerides, and low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (combined dysglycemia and dyslipidemia) in resident South Asians with 4 race/ethnic groups in the United States (Asians, black persons, Hispanics, and white persons) overall and by body mass index (BMI) category.

METHODS

South Asian data were from the 2010 to 2011 Center for Cardiometabolic Risk Reduction in South Asia Study, representative of Chennai and New Delhi, India and Karachi, Pakistan. U.S. data were from the 2011 to 2012 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, representative of the U.S.

POPULATION

Combined dysglycemia and dyslipidemia was defined as fasting blood glucose ≥126 mg/dl and triglyceride/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio >4. Logistic regression was used to estimate the relative odds and 95% confidence intervals of combined dysglycemia and dyslipidemia associated with each race/ethnic group (referent, U.S. white persons). Models were estimated among adults aged 20 to 79 years by sex and BMI category and accounted for age, education, and tobacco use. Data from 8,448 resident South Asians, 274 U.S. Asians, 404 U.S. black persons, 308 U.S. Hispanics, and 703 U.S. white persons without previously known diabetes were analyzed.

RESULTS

In the normal body weight range of BMI 18.5 to 24.9 kg/m(2), the prevalence of combined dysglycemia and dyslipidemia among men and women, respectively, was 33% and 11% in resident South Asians, 15% and 1% in U.S. Asians, 5% and 2% in U.S. black persons, 11% and 2% in U.S. Hispanics, and 8% and 2% in U.S. white persons. Compared with U.S. whites persons, South Asians were more likely to present with combined dysglycemia and dyslipidemia at all categories of BMI for men and at BMI 18.5 to 29.9 for women in adjusted models. The most pronounced difference between South Asians and U.S. white persons was observed at normal weight (adjusted odds ratio: 4.98; 95% confidence interval: 2.46 to 10.07 for men) (adjusted odds ratio: 9.09; 95% confidence interval: 2.48 to 33.29 for women).

CONCLUSIONS

Between 8% and 15% of U.S. men and 1% and 2% of U.S. women of diverse race/ethnic backgrounds exhibited dysglycemia and dyslipidemia at levels of body weight considered "healthy," consistent with the cardiometabolic profile described as the "South Asian Phenotype." Urban South Asians, however, were 5 to 9 times more likely to exhibit dysglycemia and dyslipidemia in the "healthy" BMI range compared with any other U.S. race/ethnic group.

Ethnic Variations in Diabetes and Prediabetes Prevalence and the roles of Insulin Resistance and β-cell Function: The CARRS and NHANES Studies

•

We compared the hyperglycemia prevalence in Asian Indians to other ethnic groups.

•

The prevalence of diabetes was higher in Indians compared to other ethnic groups.

•

The prevalence of prediabetes was lower in Indians compared to other ethnic groups.

•

These differences may be driven by impaired β-cell function.

Aims

It is unclear how the prevalence of diabetes in Asian Indians in urban India compares to that of race/ethnic groups in the US that may have different underlying susceptibilities. Therefore, we examined ethnic variations in the prevalence of type 2 diabetes, iIFG, iIGT, IFG + IGT, and the associated risk factors in Asian Indians in Chennai, India, and Whites, Blacks, and Hispanics in the United States.

Methods

Cross-sectional analyses, using representative samples of 4867 Asian Indians aged 20–74 years from Chennai, India, in the Centre for Cardiometabolic Risk Reduction in South-Asia study (CARRS) (2010–2011) and 6512 US Whites, Blacks, and Hispanics aged 20–74 years from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) (2007–2012).

Results

The age-adjusted prevalence of type 2 diabetes was highest in Asian Indians (men: 28.4, 95% CI: 25.9, 31.0; women: 30.6, 95% CI, 27.5, 33.9) and lowest in Caucasians (men: 12.2, 95% CI, 10.3, 14.4, women: 9.5, 95% CI, 7.9, 11.5). Asian Indians had the lowest prediabetes prevalence (men: 19.0, 95% CI, 17.2, 20.8; women: 27.2, 95% CI, 22.8, 32.1) and Caucasians had the highest (men; 46.5, 95% CI, 43.5, 49.6, women: 34.4, 95% CI, 31.7, 37.3). However, there were differences in prediabetes prevalence by gender and prediabetes state. The inclusion of HOMA-β in standardized polytomous logistic regression models resulted in a greater odds of diabetes in Blacks and Hispanics compared to Asian Indians.

Conclusions

The high prevalence of diabetes in Asian Indians may be due to innate susceptibilities for β-cell dysfunction in this high risk population.

Association of adiposity, measured by skinfold thickness, with parental history of diabetes in a South Indian population: data from CURES-114

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

To look at the association of central and peripheral skinfold thickness with parental history of diabetes in subjects without diabetes.

METHODS

Subjects with no parental history of diabetes (n=1132), subjects with one parent with diabetes (n=271) and subjects with both parents with diabetes (n=51) were recruited from the Chennai Urban Rural Epidemiological Study (CURES) conducted between 2001 and 2003. Biceps, triceps, medial calf, mid-thigh, chest, abdomen, mid-axillary, suprailiac and subscapsular sites were measured with Lange skinfold callipers.

RESULTS

Trunk fat measurements, such as chest (p=0.020), mid-axillary (p=0.005), suprailiac (p=0.014), subscapsular (p<0.001) and abdomen (p=0.010) skinfolds, were highest in subjects with both parents with diabetes followed by those with one parent with diabetes, and lowest in those with no parental history of diabetes. However, the peripheral fat measurements, ie, biceps, triceps, medial calf and mid-thigh, were not significantly different between the study groups. Total truncal and peripheral fat skinfold thicknesses showed a significant positive association with other indices of obesity such as body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference in relation to trunk fat (BMI: r=0.748, p<0.001; waist: r=0.776, p<0.001) and peripheral fat (BMI: r=0.681, p<0.001; waist: r=0.569, p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

A significant association was observed between truncal and peripheral fat, assessed by skinfold thickness, and parental history of diabetes among subjects without diabetes in this urban South Indian population.

Prevalence of chronic kidney disease in two major Indian cities and projections for associated cardiovascular disease

India is experiencing an alarming rise in the burden of non-communicable diseases, but data on the incidence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) are sparse. Using the Center for Cardiometabolic Risk Reduction in South Asia surveillance study (a population-based survey of Delhi and Chennai, India) we estimated overall, and age-, sex-, city-, and diabetes-specific prevalence of CKD, and defined the distribution of the study population by the Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) classification scheme. The likelihood of cardiovascular events in participants with and without CKD was estimated by the Framingham and Interheart Modifiable Risk Scores. Of 12,271 participants, 80% had complete data on serum creatinine and albuminuria. The prevalence of CKD and albuminuria, age standardized to the World Bank 2010 world population, were 8.7% (95% confidence interval: 7.9 to 9.4%) and 7.1% (6.4 to 7.7%) respectively. Nearly 80% of patients with CKD had an abnormally high hemoglobin A1c (5.7 and above). Based on KDIGO guidelines, 6.0, 1.0, and 0.5% of study participants are at moderate, high, or very high risk for experiencing CKD-associated adverse outcomes. The cardiovascular risk scores placed a greater proportion of patients with CKD in the high-risk categories for experiencing cardiovascular events, when compared with participants without CKD. Thus one in 12 persons living in two of India’s largest cities have evidence of CKD, with features that put them at high risk for adverse outcomes.

Growth and characterisation of a new polymorph of barium maleate: a metal organic framework

A new polymorph of barium maleate (BM) with chemical formula C24H14O24Ba5⋅7H2O is grown by modified gel method. Transparent plate like crystals of dimensions 9×4×1 mm(3) were obtained. Single crystal X-ray Diffraction analysis was done to determine the structure and the crystal belongs to triclinic system, P-1 space group with cell dimensions a=7.2929(3) Å, b=10.5454(4) Å, c=14.2837(6) Å, α=102.0350(10)°, β=99.1580(10)°, γ=102.9170(10)°. Hydrogen bonding stabilises the two dimensional polymeric crystal structure. Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopic method was utilised for the analysis of various functional groups present in the complex. Elemental analysis confirmed the stoichiometry of the complex. Thermal properties of the crystal were studied by TGA/DTA. The material melts at 368°C. The optical transparency of the crystal was studied using UV-Visible absorption spectra. The optical band gap is found to be 3.35 eV.

Safety evaluation of flubendiamide and its metabolites on cabbage and persistence in soil in different agroclimatic zones of India

Supervised field trials following good agricultural practices were conducted at the research farms of four agricultural universities located at four different agroclimatic zones of India to evaluate the persistence and dissipation of flubendiamide and its metabolite, des-iodo flubendiamide, on cabbage. Two spray applications of flubendiamide 480 SC of standard and double dose at the rate of 24 and 48 g a.i. ha(-1) were given to the crop at a 15-day interval, and the residues of flubendiamide 2 h after spray were found in the range of 0.107-0.33 and 0.20-0.49 mg kg(-1) at respective doses. Residue of des-iodo flubendiamide was not detected in any cabbage sample during study period. No residues were found in the soil samples collected from all treated fields after 15 days of application. On the basis of data generated under All India Network Project on Pesticide Residues, a preharvest interval (PHI) of 10 days has been recommended, and the flubendiamide 480 SC has been registered for its use on cabbage by Central Insecticide Board and Registration Committee, Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India. The maximum residue limit (MRL) of flubendiamide on cabbage has been fixed by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, under Food Safety Standard Authority of India as 0.05 μg/g after its risk assessment.

Knowledge and awareness of diabetes in urban and rural India: The Indian Council of Medical Research India Diabetes Study (Phase I): Indian Council of Medical Research India Diabetes 4

BACKGROUND

Representative data on knowledge and awareness about diabetes is scarce in India and is extremely important to plan public health policies aimed at preventing and controlling diabetes.

AIM

The aim of the following study is to assess awareness and knowledge about diabetes in the general population, as well as in individuals with diabetes in four selected regions of India.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study subjects were drawn from a representative sample of four geographical regions of India, Chandigarh, Tamil Nadu, Jharkhand and Maharashtra representing North, South, East and West and covering a population of 213 million. A total of 16,607 individuals (5112 urban and 11,495 rural) aged ≥20 years were selected from 188 urban and 175 rural areas. Awareness of diabetes and knowledge of causative factors and complications of diabetes were assessed using an interviewer administered structured questionnaire in 14,274 individuals (response rate, 86.0%), which included 480 self-reported diabetic subjects.

RESULTS

Only 43.2% (6160/14,274) of the overall study population had heard about a condition called diabetes. Overall urban residents had higher awareness rates (58.4%) compared to rural residents (36.8%) (P < 0.001). About 46.7% of males and 39.6% of females reported that they knew about a condition called diabetes (P < 0.001). Of the general population, 41.5% (5726/13,794) knew about a condition called diabetes. Among them, 80.7% (4620/5726) knew that the prevalence of diabetes was increasing, whereas among diabetic subjects, it was 93.0% (448/480). Among the general and diabetic population, 56.3% and 63.4% respectively, were aware that diabetes could be prevented. Regarding complications, 51.5% of the general population and 72.7% diabetic population knew that diabetes could affect other organs. Based on a composite knowledge score to assess knowledge among the general population, Tamil Nadu had the highest (31.7) and Jharkhand the lowest score (16.3). However among self-reported diabetic subjects, Maharashtra had the highest (70.1) and Tamil Nadu, the lowest score (56.5).

CONCLUSION

Knowledge and awareness about diabetes in India, particularly in rural areas, is poor. This underscores the need for conducting large scale diabetes awareness and education programs.

Growth and characterisation of crystals of a new organic complex of thiourea with quinine sulphate dihydrate: an NLO material

An organic complex of thiourea and quinine sulphate dihydrate (TQS) has been grown for the first time by gel method. The structure determination was done by the single crystal XRD technique. The crystal belongs to monoclinic system, P21 space group with cell dimensions a=6.228 (3) Å, b=20.4051 (4) Å, c=11.0600 (6) Å, β=101.9811(2)°. The crystal structure is stabilized by the hydrogen bonding. The functional groups present in the complex were analysed by the Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopic method. The stoichiometry of the complex was confirmed by the elemental analysis. Thermal properties of the complex were determined by TGA and DTA methods and the complex melts at 222.53°C. The optical transparency of the crystal was studied using UV-Visible absorption spectra. The optical band gap is found to be 2.5 eV. The SHG conversion efficiency of TQS was investigated using Kurtz and Perry method and found to be higher than that of the reference material, potassium dihydrogen phosphate (KDP).

Persistence and dissipation of quinalphos in/on cauliflower and soil under the semi arid climatic conditions of Karnataka, India

Persistence and dissipation of quinalphos residues in/on cauliflower was studied after giving spray applications at 2 concentrations, i.e. recommended dose of 500 g a.i. ha(-1) and double the recommended dose of 1,000 g a.i. ha(-1). Residue analysis of cauliflower curds was carried out after the third spray over a period of 15 days. Initial residues of quinalphos on cauliflower from the two treatments were 1.19 and 1.842 mg kg(-1). The residues persisted up to 15 days from both the treatments. The residues of quinalphos dissipated from both treatments with the half-life of 4.8 and 5.3 days. Based on the persistence study and maximum residue limit value of 0.05 mg kg(-1) the safe pre-harvest interval was worked out as 17 and 22 days from treatment at the recommended and double the recommended dose, respectively. Analysis of soil samples was carried out on the 15th day of sampling and residues were found to be 0.013 and 0.044 mg kg(-1).

Crystal structure, spectral, thermal and dielectric studies of a new zinc benzoate single crystal

Single crystals of zinc benzoate with a novel structure were grown in gel media. Sodium metasilicate of gel density 1.04 g/cc at pH 6 was employed to yield transparent single crystals. The crystal structure of the compound was ascertained by single crystal X-ray diffractometry. It was noted that the crystal belongs to monoclinic system with space group P2(1)/c with unit cell parameters a=10.669(1)Å, b=12.995(5)Å, c=19.119(3)Å, and β=94.926(3)°. The crystal was seen to possess a linear polymeric structure along b-axis; with no presence of coordinated or lattice water. CHN analysis established the stoichiometric composition of the crystal. The existence of functional groups present in the single crystal system was confirmed by FT-IR studies. The thermal characteristic of the sample was analysed by TGA-DTA techniques, and the sample was found to be thermally stable up to 280°C. The kinetic and thermodynamic parameters were also determined. UV-Vis spectroscopy corroborated the transparency of the crystal and revealed the optical band gap to be 4 eV. Dielectric studies showed decrease in the dielectric constant of the sample with increase in frequency.

Noncommunicable diseases risk factor surveillance: experience and challenge from India

Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are reaching epidemic proportions worldwide and in India. Surveillance of NCD risk factors are therefore needed as they could help in policy planning and implementation of preventive measures. This article will focus on the experiences gained, and challenges faced, in conducting NCD risk factor surveillance studies in India. Two major surveillance studies on NCDs were conducted in India - the World Health Organization (WHO) - Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) NCD risk factor surveillance study and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Project (IDSP). The WHO-ICMR study was a six-site pilot study representing six different geographical locations in India with a sample size of 44,537 including rural, peri-urban/slum and urban. Phase 1 of the IDSP was completed and included seven states in India with a sample size of 5000 per state. The NCD risk factor surveillance showed that high prevalence of diabetes, hypertension and obesity in urban areas with slightly lower prevalence rates in semi-urban and rural areas. There are several challenges in obtaining data on NCD risk factors, which include challenges in obtaining anthropometric and blood pressure measures and in assessing tobacco consumption, diet and physical activity. The challenges in field operations include contacting and convincing subjects, creating rapport, tracking subjects, climatic conditions, recall ability and interviewer skills. Success in surveillance studies depends on anticipating and managing these challenges

CONCLUSION

Improving country-level surveillance and monitoring is a valuable step in prevention and control of NCDs in India.

Residue dynamics of spirotetramat and imidacloprid in/on mango and soil

Spirotetramat is a unique insecticide having both phloem and xylem mobility and imidacloprid, a neonicotinoid insecticide, is one of the most widely used in the world. The combination formulation is very effective against sucking pests of mango. Residue dynamics of spirotetramat and imidacloprid in/on mango and soil was studied following application of the combination formulation, spirotetramat 12% + imidacloprid 12% (240 SC) at 90 and 180 g a.i. ha(-1). Spirotetramat residues in/on mango fruits were 0.327 and 0.483 mg kg(-1) after giving 3 applications at 90 and 180 g a.i. ha(-1), respectively. The residues remained on mango fruits for 7 days and dissipated with the half-life of 3.3 and 5.2 days, respectively. Residues of spirotetramat-enol, the major metabolite of spirotetramat in plant, were not detected in mango fruits. Initial residues of imidacloprid on mango fruits from the two treatments were 0.329 and 0.536 mg kg(-1), respectively. Imidacloprid residues remained on mango fruits beyond 15 days and dissipated with the half-life of 5.2 and 8.2 days. The residues of spirotetramat, spirotetramat-enol and imidacloprid were found below quantifiable limit of 0.05 mg kg(-1) in mature mango fruits and field soil at harvest.

Accumulation of mercury and other heavy metals in edible fishes of Cochin backwaters, Southwest India

Mercury, a global pollutant, has become a real threat to the developing countries like India and China, where high usage of mercury is reported. Mercury and other heavy metals deposited in to the aquatic system can cause health risk to the biota. The common edible fishes such as Mugil cephalus, Arius arius, Lutjanus ehrenbergii, Etroplus suratensis were collected from Cochin backwaters, Southwest India and analysed for mercury and other heavy metals (zinc, cadmium, lead and copper) in various body parts. Kidney and liver showed highest concentration of metals in most fishes. The omnivore and bottom feeder (E. suratensis) showed high concentration of mercury (14.71 mg/kg dry weight) and other metals (1.74 mg/g-total metal concentration). The average mercury concentration obtained in muscle was 1.6 mg/kg dry weight (0.352 mg/kg wet weight), which is higher than the prescribed limits (0.3 mg/kg wet weight). The concentration of other heavy metals in the muscles of fishes were found in a decreasing order Zn>Cu>Cd>Pb and are well below WHO permissible limits that were safe for human consumption. Metal selectivity index (MSI) obtained for all the metals except mercury showed that both carnivores and omnivores have almost same kind of affinity towards the metals especially Zn and Cd, irrespective of their feeding habit. The MSI values also indicate that the fishes have the potential to accumulate metals. High tissue selectivity index (TSI) values were reported for kidney, muscle and brain for all metals suggests that the metal concentration in these tissues can serve as an indication of metal polluted environment. Even if the daily intakes of Zn, Cd, Pb and Cu from these fishes are within the provisional maximum daily intake recommended by WHO/FAO, the quality is questionable due to the high hazard index obtained for mercury (>1). Fishes like E. suratensis being a favourite food of people in this region, the high consumption of it can lead to chronic disorders as this fish has high concentration of metals.

Residue dynamics of fenamidone and mancozeb on gherkin under two agro climatic zones in the state of Karnataka, India

Residue dynamics of fenamidone and mancozeb on gherkin was evaluated at two different agro climatic zones i.e. at Bangalore (Zone-1) and Dharwad (Zone-2) in the state of Karnataka, India. Two treatments of the combination formulation (fenamidone 10% + mancozeb 50%) were given at the standard dose 150 + 750 g a.i. ha(-1) and double dose 300 + 1,500 g a.i. ha(-1). Initial residue deposits of fenamidone were 0.467 and 0.474 mg kg(-1) at Zone-1 and 2, respectively from standard dose treatment. From double dose treatment they were 0.964 and 0.856 mg kg(-1), respectively. Fenamidone residues persisted for 15 and 10 days and dissipated with the half-life of 4 and 3 days at Zone-1 and 2, respectively. Mancozeb residue deposits on gherkin were 0.383 and 0.428 mg kg(-1) from standard dose and 0.727 and 0.626 mg kg(-1) from double dose treatment at Zone-1 and 2, respectively. Mancozeb residues dissipated with the half-life of 2 and 1 day, respectively. Residues of both fenamidone and mancozeb dissipated faster at Zone-2 compared to Zone-1. The limit of quantification of fenamidone and mancozeb were 0.02 and 0.1 mg kg(-1), respectively in both gherkin and soil. Residues of fenamidone and mancozeb in soil collected on the 20th day from the 2 locations were found to be below quantifiable limit of both fungicides.

An efficient analytical method for analysis of spirotetramat and its metabolite spirotetramat-enol by HPLC

Spirotetramat is a new compound which belongs to the chemical class of ketoenols. As per the available literature analysis of spirotetramat and its metabolites spirotetramat-enol is carried out by high pressure liquid chromatograph with mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS). In this study we have standardized a method where analysis of both the compounds is carried out by HPLC. The extraction and cleanup of spirotetramat and its metabolites spirotetramat-enol was carried out by QuEChERS method. The cleaned up residues were estimated by HPLC equipped with a photo diode array detector at a wavelength of 250 nm. The mobile phase used was acetonitrile: water at a proportion of 40:60. The limit of quantification (LOQ) of the method was 0.05 mg kg(-1) for both spirotetramat and its metabolite spirotetramat-enol. The recoveries of both the compounds at the LOQ level were in the range of 72.72%-86.76% from mango and 74.82% to 86.92% from cabbage.

Relationship of body fat with insulin resistance and cardiometabolic risk factors among normal glucose-tolerant subjects

BACKGROUND

The amount of body fat, rather than the amount of excess weight, determines the health risks of obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and cardiovascular disease.

AIMS

To look at the association of body fat percentage with cardiometabolic risk factors in subjects with normal glucose tolerance (NGT).

SETTINGS AND DESIGN

Cross-section study from the Chennai Urban Rural Epidemiology Study.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Body fat was measured by Beurer body fat analyzer. Metabolic syndrome (MS) was diagnosed based on modified ATPIII guidelines.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

Student's t test or one-way ANOVA (with Tukey's HSD) was used to compare groups for continuous variables.

RESULTS

Body mass index, waist circumference, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, HOMA IR, serum cholesterol, and LDL cholesterol increased significantly with increasing tertiles of body fat (P<0.001). There was a linear increase in the percentage of body fat with increase in number of components of MS (no metabolic abnormality: 25 ± 11, one metabolic abnormality: 28 ± 10, two metabolic abnormalities: 33 ± 8, and three and more metabolic abnormalities: 35 ± 7) (P<0.001). Regression models showed significant association of body fat with MS after adjusting for age, gender, insulin resistance, and glycated hemoglobin (Odds ratio: 1.04, 95% confidence interval: 1.04 - 1.08, P<0.001). In linear regression analysis, body fat showed a significant association with insulin resistance after adjusting for age, gender, and glycated hemoglobin (β=0.030, P<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

A significant association exists between body fat, MS, and cardiometabolic risk factors even among subjects with NGT.

Prevalence of diabetes and prediabetes (impaired fasting glucose and/or impaired glucose tolerance) in urban and rural India: phase I results of the Indian Council of Medical Research-INdia DIABetes (ICMR-INDIAB) study

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

This study reports the results of the first phase of a national study to determine the prevalence of diabetes and prediabetes (impaired fasting glucose and/or impaired glucose tolerance) in India.

METHODS

A total of 363 primary sampling units (188 urban, 175 rural), in three states (Tamilnadu, Maharashtra and Jharkhand) and one union territory (Chandigarh) of India were sampled using a stratified multistage sampling design to survey individuals aged ≥ 20 years. The prevalence rates of diabetes and prediabetes were assessed by measurement of fasting and 2 h post glucose load capillary blood glucose.

RESULTS

Of the 16,607 individuals selected for the study, 14,277 (86%) participated, of whom 13,055 gave blood samples. The weighted prevalence of diabetes (both known and newly diagnosed) was 10.4% in Tamilnadu, 8.4% in Maharashtra, 5.3% in Jharkhand, and 13.6% in Chandigarh. The prevalences of prediabetes (impaired fasting glucose and/or impaired glucose tolerance) were 8.3%, 12.8%, 8.1% and 14.6% respectively. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that age, male sex, family history of diabetes, urban residence, abdominal obesity, generalised obesity, hypertension and income status were significantly associated with diabetes. Significant risk factors for prediabetes were age, family history of diabetes, abdominal obesity, hypertension and income status.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATIONS

We estimate that, in 2011, Maharashtra will have 6 million individuals with diabetes and 9.2 million with prediabetes, Tamilnadu will have 4.8 million with diabetes and 3.9 million with prediabetes, Jharkhand will have 0.96 million with diabetes and 1.5 million with prediabetes, and Chandigarh will have 0.12 million with diabetes and 0.13 million with prediabetes. Projections for the whole of India would be 62.4 million people with diabetes and 77.2 million people with prediabetes.

Residue dynamics of tebuconazole and quinalphos in immature onion bulb with leaves, mature onion bulb and soil

Residue persistence of tebuconazole and quinalphos in immature onion bulb with leaves (spring onion), mature onion bulb and soil was studied following their spray applications 3 times. The applications were untreated control; tebuconazole @ 187.5 and 375 g a.i. ha(-1); quinalphos @ 300 and 600 g a.i. ha(-1). Initial residue deposits of tebuconazole in immature onion bulb with leaves from the two treatments were 0.628 and 1.228 mg kg(-1). The residues of tebuconazole dissipated with the half-life of 5 and 7.7 days. The safe pre-harvest intervals (PHI) for consumption of immature onion bulb with leaves were 16 and 35 days, respectively. Initial residue deposits of quinalphos in immature onion bulb with leaves from the two treatments were 0.864 and 2.283 mg kg(-1). Loss of quinalphos residues from immature onion bulb with leaves was very fast. The residues dissipated with the half-life of 1.7 and 2.6 days and the required PHI was 5 and 11 days, respectively. At harvest mature onion bulbs were free from residues of both tebuconazole and quinalphos.

Behavior of beta cyfluthrin and imidacloprid in/on mango (Mangifera indica L.)

Residue persistence of beta cyfluthrin and imidacloprid on mango was carried out after giving spray application of the combination formulation, beta cyfluthrin 9% + imidacloprid 21% (Solomon 300 OD) 3 times at the fruit formation stage. The treatments were, untreated control, standard dose of 75 g a.i. ha(-1) and double dose of 150 g a.i. ha(-1). Initial residues of beta cyfluthrin on mango fruits were 0.04 and 0.12 mg kg(-1) from treatments at the standard and double doses, respectively. The residues dissipated with the half-life of 2.4 and 2.6 days and persisted for 5 days only. Initial residues of imidacloprid on mango fruits were 0.14 and 0.18 mg kg(-1) from treatments at the standard and double doses, respectively. Imidacloprid residues degraded with the half-life of 3.06 and 4.16 days, respectively and persisted for 10 days. Mature mango fruits at harvest were free from residues of both insecticides. A safe pre-harvest interval of 8 days is recommended for consumption of mango fruits after treatment of the combination formulation.

Insulin resistance is associated with increased cardiovascular risk in Asian Indians with normal glucose tolerance--the Chennai Urban Rural Epidemiology Study (CURES-66)

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to assess the association of Insulin Resistance [IR] assessed by Homeostasis Assessment model (HOMA-IR) with cardiovascular risk factors in subjects with Normal Glucose Tolerance [NGT] in Asian Indians.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study recruited subjects from the Chennai Urban Rural Epidemiology Study [CURES] an epidemiological study in a representative population of Chennai [formerly Madras], in South India. We included 1550 subjects with normal glucose tolerance, ie, fasting plasma glucose < 100 mg/dl [5.6 mmol/L] and 2 hour post load plasma glucose < 140 mg/dl [7.8 mmol/L]. IR was calculated using the homeostasis assessment model (HOMA-IR) using the formula: fasting insulin (1IU/mL) fasting glucose (mmol/L)/22.5. Metabolic syndrome [MS] was defined based on modified Adult Treatment Panel III (ATP III) guidelines.

RESULTS

HOMA-IR was found to be significantly associated with systolic blood pressure (beta = 0.100, p < 0.001), diastolic pressure (beta = 0.094, p < 0.001), total cholesterol (beta = 0.068, p = 0.005), serum triglycerides (beta = 0.105, p < 0.001), LDL cholesterol (beta = 0.118, p < 0.005), and HDL cholesterol (beta = -0.060, p < 0.001) even after adjusting age, gender and BMI. Subjects with family history of type 2 diabetes had significantly higher HOMA-IR [p = 0.011] compared to those without family history. In relation to physical activity, subjects with heavy grade activity had significantly lower HOMA-IR values compared to the light grade activity [p < 0.001] Subjects with generalized obesity [p < 0.001] and abdominal obesity [p < 0.001] had significantly higher HOMA-IR which remained statistically significant even after adjusting for age and gender. There was a linear increase in the mean values of HOMA IR with increase in number of components of MS [p for trend < 0.001]

CONCLUSION

Among Asian Indians who are known to have high risk of premature coronary artery disease and diabetes, a significant association exists between insulin resistance with cardiovascular risk factors even among NGT subjects.

The need for obtaining accurate nationwide estimates of diabetes prevalence in India - rationale for a national study on diabetes

According to the World Diabetes Atlas, India is projected to have around 51 million people with diabetes. However, these data are based on small sporadic studies done in some parts of the country. Even a few multi-centre studies that have been done, have several limitations. Also, marked heterogeneity between States limits the generalizability of results. Other studies done at various time periods also lack uniform methodology, do not take into consideration ethnic differences and have inadequate coverage. Thus, till date there has been no national study on the prevalence of diabetes which are truly representative of India as a whole. Moreover, the data on diabetes complications is even more scarce. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a large well-planned national study, which could provide reliable nationwide data, not only on prevalence of diabetes, but also on pre-diabetes, and the complications of diabetes in India. A study of this nature will have enormous public health impact and help policy makers to take action against diabetes in India.

Persistence and dissipation of fluopicolide in/on grape berries and soil under semi arid tropical climatic conditions of India

Fluopicolide, a relatively new fungicide is used for control of downy mildew of grape. Persistence study of fluopicolide was carried out on grape berries following treatment of the combination product, fluopicolide 4.44% + fosetyl aluminium 66.7% (Profiler 71.14 WG) at the recommended and double the recommended dose of 2.5 and 5.0 kg ha⁻¹. Four treatment sprays were given at 15 day intervals, starting from 1 month after pruning of the vines. Residues of fluopicolide in grape berries were estimated on 0 (1 h), 1, 3, 5, 7, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 day and at harvest (64 days after the last spray application). The initial residue deposits of fluopicolide on grape berries were 0.58 and 1.32 mg kg⁻¹ from treatment at the recommended and double dose, respectively. Dissipation of fluopicolide residues was a slow process. After 30 days of treatment, 0.068 and 0.204 mg kg⁻¹ of residues still remained in the berries from treatment at the recommended and double dose, respectively. Fluopicolide residues in grape berries dissipated with the half-life of 10.2 and 12.3 days. Residues in grape berries and soil at harvest were below the quantifiable limit of 0.01 mg kg⁻¹ from both the treatments.

Development of an analytical method for analysis of flubendiamide, des-iodo flubendiamide and study of their residue persistence in tomato and soil

Flubendiamide is a new insecticide that has been found to give excellent control of lepidopterous pests of tomato. This study has been undertaken to develop an improved method for analysis of flubendiamide and its metabolite des-iodo flubendiamide and determine residue retention in tomato and soil. The analytical method developed involved extraction of flubendiamide and its metabolite des-iodo flubendiamide with acetonitrile, liquid-liquid partitioning into hexane-ethyl acetate mixture (6:4, v v⁻¹) and cleanup with activated neutral alumina. Finally the residues were dissolved in gradient high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) grade acetonitrile for analysis by HPLC. The mobile phase, acetonitrile-water at 60:40 (v v⁻¹) proportion and the wavelength of 235 nm gave maximum peak resolution. Using the above method and HPLC parameters described, nearly 100 % recovery of both insecticides were obtained. There was no matrix interference and the limit of quantification (LOQ) of the method was 0.01 mg kg⁻¹. Initial residue deposits of flubendiamide on field-treated tomato from treatments @ 48 and 96 g active ingredient hectare⁻¹ were 0.83 and 1.68 mg kg⁻¹, respectively. The residues of flubendiamide dissipated at the half-life of 3.9 and 4.4 days from treatments @ 48 and 96 g a.i. ha⁻¹, respectively and persisted for 15 days from both the treatments. Des-iodo flubendiamide was not detected in tomato fruits at any time during the study period. Residues of flubendiamide and des-iodo flubendiamide in soil from treatment @ 48 and 96 g a.i. ha⁻¹ were below detectable level (BDL, < 0.01 mg kg⁻¹) after 20 days. Flubendiamide completely dissipated from tomato within 20 days when the 480 SC formulation was applied at doses recommended for protection against lepidopterous pests.

Residues of acephate and its metabolite methamidophos in/on mango fruit (Mangifera indica L.)

Mango, the major fruit crop of India is affected by stone weevil, which can cause serious damage to the fruits. Acephate gives good control of mango stone weevil. Residues of acephate and its major metabolite, methamidophos were evaluated on mango fruits following repeated spray applications at the recommended dose (0.75 kg a.i. ha⁻¹) and double the recommended dose (1.5 kg a.i. ha⁻¹). Acephate residues mostly remained on the fruit peel which persisted up to 30 days. Movement of residues to the fruit pulp was detected after 1 day of application, increased to maximum of 0.14 and 0.26 mg kg⁻¹ after 3 days and reached to below detectable level (BDL) after 20 days. Methamidophos, a metabolite of acephate, was detected from 3rd day onwards in both peel and pulp and persisted up to 15 days. The residues (acephate + methamidophos) dissipated with the half-life of 5 days in peel and pulp. A safe pre-harvest interval of 30 days is recommended for consumption of mango fruits following treatment of acephate at the recommended dose of 0.75 kg a.i. ha⁻¹.

Persistence and dissipation of flubendiamide and des-iodo flubendiamide in cabbage (Brassica oleracea Linne) and soil

Flubendiamide belongs to a novel class of insecticide which controls lepidopteran pest complex of cabbage such as diamondback moth, cabbage white butterfly, cluster caterpillar etc. Being a newly introduced insecticide no information is available on its residue persistence in cabbage. A study was undertaken to evaluate the residue persistence of flubendiamide in cabbage and soil following 2 applications of flubendiamide 480 SC at the recommended and double the recommended dose of 24 and 48 g a.i. ha(-1). Initial residue deposits of flubendiamide in cabbage were 0.33 and 0.49 mg kg(-1) respectively. The residues persisted for 10 days from the both the treatments and dissipated with the half-life of 3.9 and 4.45 days, respectively. Des-iodo flubendiamide, a metabolite of flubendiamide, was not detected in cabbage at any time during the study period. Soil sample collected from the treated field after 15 days was free from any residue of flubendiamide or its metabolite.

Behaviour of trifloxystrobin and tebuconazole on grapes under semi-arid tropical climatic conditions

BACKGROUND

A mixture of trifloxystrobin and tebuconazole is excellent in controlling both powdery and downy mildew of grapes. The objective of the present work was to study the behaviour of trifloxystrobin and tebuconazole on grape berries and soil following treatment with Nativo 75 WG, a formulation containing both fungicides (trifloxystrobin 250 + tebuconazole 500 g kg(-1)). This study was carried out for planned registration of this mixture for use on grapes in India.

RESULTS

Initial residue deposits of trifloxystrobin and tebuconazole on grapes were below their maximum residue limit (MRL) of 0.5 and 2 mg kg(-1), respectively, when Nativo 75 WG was applied at the recommended dose of 175 g product ha(-1). The residues dissipated gradually to 0.02 and 0.05 mg kg(-1) by 30 days, and were below the quantifiable limit of 0.01 mg kg(-1) at the time of harvest (60 days after the last treatment). Trifloxystrobin and tebuconazole dissipated at a pre-harvest interval (PHI) of 36 and 34 days, respectively, from the recommended treatment dose. The acid metabolite of trifloxystrobin, CGA 321 113, was not detected in grape berries at any point in time. Soil at harvest was free of any pesticide residues.

CONCLUSION

Residue levels of both trifloxystrobin and tebuconazole were below MRLs when grapes were harvested 30 days after the last of four applications of 175 g product ha(-1) (trifloxystrobin 44 g AI ha(-1), tebuconazole 88 g AI ha(-1)) under the semi-arid tropical climatic conditions of India.