A numerical model for the prediction of radon flux from uranium mill tailings at Jaduguda, India

Solid process fine waste or tailings of a uranium mill is a potential source of release of radiologically significant gaseous radon (222Rn). A number of variables such as radium (226Ra) content, porosity, moisture content, and tailings density can affect the extent of emanation from the tailings. Further, if a cover material is used for remediation purposes, additional challenges due to changes in the matrix characteristics in predicting the radon flux can be anticipated. The uranium mill tailings impoundment systems at Jaduguda have been in use for the long-term storage of fine process waste (tailings). A pilot-scale remediation exercise of one of the tailings ponds has been undertaken with 30 cm soil as a cover material. For the prediction of the radon flux, a numerical model has been developed to account for the radon exhalation process at the remediated site. The model can effectively be used to accommodate both the continuous and discrete variable inputs. Depth profiling and physicochemical characterization for the remediated site have been done for the required input variables of the proposed numerical model. The predicted flux worked out is well below the reference level of 0.74 Bq m-2 s-1 IAEA (2004).

Dyslipidemia and Thyroid Dysfunction Associated with Psoriasis

BACKGROUND

Psoriasis is a T-cell mediated inflammatory skin disorder which causes considerable psychosocial disability resulting in major impact on patient's quality of life. The dominant response of Th1 cells and the high expression of related inflammatory factors appears in both psoriasis and thyroid dysfunction. Psoriasis can lead to increased risk of incidence of cardiovascular events for which dyslipidemia is an important risk factor. This study aims to evaluate thyroid function and lipid profile and its association in patients with psoriasis.

METHODS

This was a prospective case-control study conducted at the Department of Biochemistry, Nobel Medical College Teaching Hospital from November 2021 to October 2022. Seventy six clinically diagnosed psoriatic patients were taken as case and eighty non-psoriatic patients coming for other skin lesions were included in the study as control. Thyroid function test (serum free T3, T4, TSH) and lipid profile (total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein, high density lipoprotein and triglyceride) were done.

RESULTS

Hypothyroidism was most common thyroid abnormalities in our study population which was 13.15% (n=10). The lipid profile parameters were significantly higher in the psoriatic patients than in the controls (p<0.001). The odds of psoriatic patient having thyroid dysfunction was 2.8 times higher compared to other non-psoriatic patients and the odds of psoriatic patient having dyslipidemia was 8.7 times higher compared to other non-psoriatic patients.

CONCLUSIONS

It is thus useful to assess thyroid function test and lipid profile in patients with psoriasis considering their role in etiopathogenesis and co-morbidity of psoriasis.

Generation of map on natural environmental background absorbed dose rate in India

A systematic mapping of natural absorbed dose rate was carried out to assess the existing exposure situation in India. The mammoth nationwide survey covered the entire terrestrial region of the country comprising of 45127 sampling grids (grid size 36 km²) with more than 100,000 data points. The data was processed using Geographic Information System. This study is based on established national and international approaches to provide linkage with conventional geochemical mapping of soil. Majority (93%) of the absorbed dose rate data was collected using handheld radiation survey meters and remaining were measured using environmental Thermo Luminescent Dosimeters. The mean absorbed dose rate of the entire country including several mineralized regions, was found to be 96 ± 21 nGy/h. The median, Geometric Mean and Geometric Standard Deviation values of absorbed dose rate were 94, 94 and 1.2 nGy/h, respectively. Among the High Background Radiation Areas of the country, absorbed dose rate varied from 700 to 9562 nGy/h in Karunagappally area of Kollam district, Kerala. The absorbed dose rate in the present nationwide study is comparable with the global database.

Association of Different Biochemical and Hemodynamic Characteristic with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Hypertension in Nephrolithiasis Patients

Background Although Nephrolithiasis is a common condition caused by a wide variety of metabolic or environmental disturbances, its being one of the major factor of morbidity. Incidence of kidney stone disease (KSD) is highly affected by metabolic disorders and change in blood pressure and glucose. Objective To find out association of different biochemical and hemodynamic parameters with various glycemic status and hypertension in kidney stone disease. Method A cross sectional study was conducted in patients diagnosed as nephrolithiasis by using re¬nal ultrasonography and underwent nephrectomy between January 2019 to January 2021 in Shahid Dharmabhakta National Transplant Centre (SDNTC). A total of 100 subjects with 60 male and 40 females were enrolled. Glycemic status was categorized based on criteria of American Diabetes Association (ADA) and hypertension was defined as BP ≥ 140/90 mm Hg in right arm supine position. All biochemical and hemodynamic profile was carried out following standard protocol. Result Out of 100 patients enrolled, pre-diabetes accounted for 31% followed by diabetes (4%). However, hypertension comprised of 66% in total subjects. Serum urea, cholesterol and triglyceride level were found to be increased by 84.6%, 67.7% and 64.7% respectively in diabetes followed by increase of 3.9%, 19.5% and 3.1% respectively in prediabetes when compared to normal glycemic condition in nephrolithiasis subjects. Serum fasting blood glucose, creatinine and uric acid level was observed significantly higher (p=0.003, p=0.004, p < 0.001 respectively) in hypertensive patients. Duration of hospital stay was also seen positively correlated with hypertension. Conclusion Not only diabetes, prediabetes also manifests the increased risk of kidney stone disease along with hypertension. There is significant impairment in renal function and lipid profile based on diabetes mellitus and hypertension. Early identifying these systemic diseases, different biochemical and hemodynamic parameters and proper treatment accordingly may minimize risk and prevent serious complication in these patients.

Thyroid Dysfunction Associated with Depressive Disorder: A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study Done in a Tertiary Care Center of Eastern Nepal

Background: Depression is one of the most common psychiatric disorders with substantial morbidity and mortality. It is known to be associated with changes in the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis, thus may be accompanied by subtle thyroid dysfunction. Thus, our study aims to determine the prevalence and characteristics of thyroid dysfunction in newly diagnosed depressive patients. Materials and Methods: A prospective descriptive cross sectional study was conducted among 130 patient diagnosed as depression from December 2020 to June 2022 after taking the ethical approval. The patients in the symptomatic phase and above 18 years was recruited in our study. Thyroid profile consisting of free tri-iodothyronine (FT3), free thyroxine (FT4) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) was estimated by chemiluminescence immunoassay in the central laboratory of Nobel Medical College Teaching Hospital. Results: Out of 130 depressive patients recruited in our study, 44 patients had abnormal thyroid function test showing a prevalence of 33.84%. The most common form was moderate depression which was 39.99% of our study population. The commonest thyroid abnormality was subclinical hypothyroidism (15.38%) followed by overt hypothyroidism (14.61%). Thyroid abnormality was more common among the severe form of depression (46.66%). The comparison of means of fT3, fT4 and TSH between different grades of depression was statistically significant for fT3 (p=0.048) and TSH (p=0.001). Conclusion: Thus, the most common thyroid function abnormalities in our study include subclinical and overt hypothyroidism, with associated lower level of fT4 and higher level of TSH.

Hydrogeochemical characterization and evaluation of subsurface water quality in the Proterozoic Cuddapah Basin, Andhra Pradesh, India

In the current survey, different hydrogeochemical processes governing the geochemistry of aquifers, the usefulness of groundwater for regular consumption, and agricultural purposes were evaluated around the Tummalapalle area. One hundred forty-four borehole locations were chosen to characterize the major physicochemical components of the aquifer water. The analysis results of pH inferred that the groundwater is nominally acidic to basic, and pH ranged from 6.6 to 8.4. The average concentrations of TDS, Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺, total hardness (TH), HCO₃^-, and total alkalinity (TA) are within the allowable limits of potable water quality as prescribed by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and WHO. However, the average concentrations of Na⁺, K⁺, Cl^-, and SO₄^2- were all below the permissible limit. All samples were analyzed with the help of Piper and Chadha charts to determine the dominant hydrogeochemical components of groundwater. The dominance of cations in groundwater in this region is in the sequence of Ca²⁺  > Na⁺  > Mg²⁺  > K⁺, followed by anions HCO₃^-  > Cl^-  > SO₄^2-. The Gibbs plot analysis suggested the predominance of rock aquifer interaction as the major hydrogeochemical process governing groundwater geochemistry in this region. The water quality index (WQI) of all groundwater samples in the Tummalapalle region was estimated, with 55% of the samples being potable grade. The different irrigation indices were analyzed for the groundwater samples to estimate their desirability for agriculture. The maximum number of water samples was found to be well-suited for cultivation.

Correlation between Sonoelastographic, Doppler and Histopathological Findings in Chronic Kidney Disease Patients in Tertiary Care Centre

Background Ultrasound (USG) with Doppler examination of intrarenal vessels is the imaging modality of choice employed in patients with renal failure and is commonly performed early in the clinical course. The pulsatility index (PI) and the resistive index (RI) of downstream renal artery have been found to correlate with renal vascular resistance, filtration fraction and effective renal plasma flow in chronic renal failure. Pathological process in any tissues alters their elastic properties which can be assessed non-invasively through newer technique like elastography. Objective To correlate the findings obtained by sonoelastographic, doppler and histopathological studies in chronic kidney disease patients. Method Study was done in 146 patients referred to Department of Radiodiagnosis and Imaging, TUTH for native renal biopsy. Renal sonographic morphology (length, echogenicity, cortical thickness), Sonoelastography (Young's modulus) and Doppler parameters (peak systolic velocity, resistive index) were assessed. The grading of estimated GFR (eGFR) was calculated based on chronic kidney disease (CKD) criteria. Result Among 146 patients, 63 (43.2%) were females and 83 (56.8%) were males. Maximum patients were in age group of 41-50 years (25.3%) followed by age group 51-60 years (24%). Mean age of patient was 42.06±14.70 for males and 39.57±12.54 females. Maximum mean Young's modulus was seen in eGFR stage G1 with 46.57±19.51 kPa followed by in stage G3a with 36.46±10.01 kPa and observed to be statistically non-significant (p=0.172). However, statistical significance difference was noted between the resistive index and elastographic measurement of Young's modulus (r=0.462, p=0.0001). Minimum mean cortical thickness was seen in eGFR stage G5 with 4.42±1.48 mm followed by stage G4 with 5.57±1.24 mm (p= 0.0001). Cortical thickness is decreasing as eGFR stage was increasing in our study (p=0.0001). Resistive index is increasing with decrease in renal size (r=-0.202, p=0.015). Conclusion Ultrasonography along with doppler study and elastography have limited role in diagnosing the pathology of chronic kidney disease, however, it has significant role in the disease progression.

Impact of agromet advisory services on farmers’ operational decisions related todairy farming in Thiruvananthapuram

Climate factors has an impact on numerous aspects of productivity, reproduction, health, and adaptation in dairy animals. Therefore, the present study was undertaken to assess the impact of the agromet advisory services on farmers' decision making for different farm operations related to dairy farming. The study was conducted in Thiruvananthapuram District of Kerala state. Two blocks were selected randomly from the district and from each block two experimental and two control villages selected after verifying that villages were not receiving any kind of agromet advisory services from Agromet Field Unit (AMFU) in Thiruvananthapuram. From each experimental village 15 beneficiary farmers were selected and provided with treatment i.e. Agromet Advisory Bulletins were disseminated twice a week (Tuesday and Friday) regularly for 6 months through Whatsapp group and from each control village 15 non-beneficiary farmers were selected. To assess the impact Difference in difference design and regression models were used. The findings revealed that most of the agromet advices were only relevant for crop farmers and the advices relevant for dairy farmers were included less frequently. Hence advisory services pertinent to dairy farmers must be appropriately included in the agromet advisory services disseminated from AMFUs.

Immunotherapy for Alzheimer's Disease: Current Scenario and Future Perspectives

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a global health concern owing to its complexity, which often poses a great challenge to the development of therapeutic approaches. No single theory has yet accounted for the various risk factors leading to the pathological and clinical manifestations of dementia-type AD. Therefore, treatment options targeting various molecules involved in the pathogenesis of the disease have been unsuccessful. However, the exploration of various immunotherapeutic avenues revitalizes hope after decades of disappointment. The hallmark of a good immunotherapeutic candidate is not only to remove amyloid plaques but also to slow cognitive decline. In line with this, both active and passive immunotherapy have shown success and limitations. Recent approval of aducanumab for the treatment of AD demonstrates how close passive immunotherapy is to being successful. However, several major bottlenecks still need to be resolved. This review outlines recent successes and challenges in the pursuit of an AD vaccine.

Prevalence of elevated liver enzymes and its association with type 2 diabetes: A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study among Nepalese Adults from Biratnagar, Nepal

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a non-communicable metabolic disease resulting from either insulin deficiency or insulin resistance. Liver enzymes (ALT and AST) are the well-known markers of hepatocellular health while GGT also shows biliary tract function. Increased activities of liver enzymes are indicators of hepatocellular injury, are associated with insulin resistance and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Aims and Objective: To study the status of Liver Enzymes in type 2 diabetes patients residing in the eastern part of Nepal. Materials and Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted at the Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Nobel Medical College Teaching Hospital, Biratnagar, Nepal dated from 27th Dec 2019 to 27th Dec 2020. The blood sample was taken from the patients coming to the outpatient department at Diabetic and Endocrinology Clinic for a regular check-up and follow-up and those willing to participate in research. All the data collected was entered in Microsoft Excel and Statistical Package for Social Service (SPSS) version 16. p < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. Results: A total of 375 subjects (255 DM and 120 healthy) were included. The age of the diabetic subjects ranges from 27-87 years with a mean of 56.91 ± 11.00 years while age of healthy subjects’ ranged from 31-86 years with the mean of 53.38 ± 13.28. Among the T2DM subjects, 11.76% (30/255) had raised AST, 17.25% (44/255) had raised ALT, 12.94% (33/255) had raised ALP, and 19.60% (50/255) had raised GGT. The level of liver enzymes (AST, p = 0.005, ALT, p = 0.007, ALP, p = 0.000 and GGT, p = 0.000) were showed statistically significant. Conclusion: This study concludes that liver enzyme activity was higher in T2DM subjects than individuals who do not have T2DM. In addition, Liver parameters were significantly correlated with diabetes mellitus in our study population; hence, timely diagnosis and management of the abnormal liver parameters may help to minimize liver-related morbidity and mortality in the diabetic population.

Molecular mapping of a new recessive wheat leaf rust resistance gene originating from Triticum spelta

TSD276-2, a wheat genetic stock derived from the cross Agra Local/T. spelta 276 showed broad spectrum resistance against leaf rust pathogen. Genetic analysis was undertaken using F₁, F₂, F_2:3 and BC₁F₁ generations derived from the cross TSD276-2/Agra Local. The results revealed a single recessive gene for leaf rust resistance, tentatively named as LrTs_276-2, in TSD276-2. Molecular mapping of leaf rust resistance gene LrTs_276-2 in TSD276-2 was done using SNP-based PCR and SSR markers. For Bulked Segregant Analysis (BSA), two bulks viz. resistant bulk and susceptible bulk, and the parents TSD276-2 and Agra Local were genotyped for SNPs using AFFYMETRIX 35K Wheat Breeders' AXIOM array. T. spelta 276 was also genotyped and used as a check. BSA indicated that the gene for leaf rust resistance in TSD276-2 is located on chromosome arm 1DS. Putatively linked SNPs on chromosome arm 1DS were converted into PCR-based markers. Polymorphic SSR markers on chromosome arm 1DS were also identified. Final linkage map was constructed using one SNP-based PCR and three SSR markers. The rust reaction and chromosomal location suggest that LrTs_276-2 is a new leaf rust resistance gene which may be useful in broadening the genetic base of leaf rust resistance in wheat.

A novel leaf rust resistance gene introgressed from Aegilops markgrafii maps on chromosome arm 2AS of wheat

A novel leaf rust resistance gene, LrM, introgressed from Aegilops markgrafii and mapped on chromosome 2AS using SSR- and SNP-based PCR markers will aid in broadening the genetic base of rust resistance in wheat. A new leaf rust resistance gene tentatively named LrM was introgressed from the diploid non-progenitor species Ae. markgrafii (2n = 2x = 14, genome CC) into common wheat using the nulli-5B mechanism. The introgression line ER9-700 showed a high degree of resistance against a wide spectrum of Puccinia triticina pathotypes. Genetic analysis was performed using the F₁, F₂, F_2:3 and BC₁F₁ generations derived from the cross ER9-700/Agra Local. The results showed a single dominant gene for leaf rust resistance. The resistance gene LrM was mapped on chromosome arm 2AS using SSR- and SNP-based PCR markers. Preliminary mapping with SSR markers in the F_2:3 population from the cross ER9-700/Agra Local identified two SSR markers flanking the LrM. SNPs were identified in the genomic region flanked by SSR markers, and SNP-based PCR markers were developed to construct the final map. Three SNP-based PCR markers co-segregated and mapped closest to the resistance gene at a distance of 2 cM. The gene LrM was distinguished from all the other genes designated and mapped on chromosome arm 2AS by molecular markers and rust reaction. All five markers used in the mapping amplified identical alleles in the donor Ae. markgrafii accession and introgression line ER9-700. The chromosomal location and rust reaction suggest that LrM is a novel leaf rust resistance gene that may be useful in broadening the genetic base of leaf rust resistance in wheat.

Effects of Chronic Kidney Disease on Liver Enzymes Activity During Pre and Post Hemodialysis

Background: Worldwide chronic kidney disease is one of the primary public health problems. This study aimed to find the activity of liver enzymes alanine aminotransferase, aspartate transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, and Gamma-glutamyl transferase in the patient's serum before and after dialysis in Chronic kidney disease. Materials and Methods: This was a case-control study including 68 cases with chronic kidney disease coming for hemodialysis at dialysis centers and 140 healthy individuals as control. Serum samples were used for the analysis of serum urea and creatinine, liver enzymes aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, and gamma-glutamyl transferase using ErbaChem-300 liquid Chemistry autoanalyzer. Pearson’s bivariate correlation analysis and ANOVA were used to correlate variables between the controls and cases. p < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. Results: Urea and creatinine levels were significantly higher in both pre and post-hemodialysis as compared to healthy controls with a p-value (p < 0.001). Alanine aminotransferase and aspartate transaminase levels were significantly lower in both pre and post-hemodialysis as compared to healthy controls.  On the other hand, serum alkaline phosphatase levels were significantly higher in pre and post hemodialysis as compared to healthy control. Moreover, serum gamma-glutamyl transferase levels were significantly higher in pre and post hemodialysis as compared to healthy control. Conclusion: The study showed differences in the level of liver enzymes in pre and post hemodialysis in chronic kidney disease.

Impact of conventional retting of jute (Corchorus spp.) on the environmental quality of water: a case study

Production of quality jute fibre primarily depends on the retting process of jute. However, the quality of retting water is of great concern because of the scarcity of available water bodies for retting. A study conducted on physico-chemical and microbiological changes in retting water (pre- and post-retting) from four intensively jute-growing districts namely Nadia, North 24 Parganas, Hooghly and South Dinajpur of West Bengal, India, during jute retting. The post-retting water samples recorded lower pH (6.22 to 7.08) and higher EC (electrical conductivity) (0.509 to 0.850 ds/m) compared with pre-retting water samples (pH 6.63 to 7.44; EC 0.197 to 0.330 ds/m) collected from all the four districts under study. The biological oxygen demand (BOD) and chemical oxygen demand (COD) increased several folds in the post-retting water samples indicating very high microbial growth and activities and depleted oxygen level compared with pre-retting water. The Ca + Mg (calcium + magnesium) content in pre-retting water was high (24.15 to 36.60 ppm) which raised further (61.30 to 103.67 ppm) in post-retting water, while the bicarbonate content also increased and ranged between 2.72 and 6.81 me/l in post-retting water compared with its status in pre-retting water (1.30 to 3.15 me/l). The post-retting water was found to be a rich source of nutrients like nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu) which increased substantially because of jute retting as compared with their status in pre-retting water. The population of pectinolytic, xylanolytic, cellulolytic and ligninolytic bacterial cfu (colony forming unit) increased by 1.5 times in post-retting water as compared with pre-retting water, because these specific bacterial population were involved in the degradation of pectin, xylan, cellulose and lignin during retting of jute. Thus, post-retting water can be judiciously used as a potent source of primary, secondary and micronutrients for succeeding crops besides having higher BOD and COD as a result of higher microbial growth related to jute retting.

Pearl millet based pasta: optimization of extrusion process through response surface methodology

This study investigated the influence of extrusion operating condition [barrel temperature (BT) (50-90 °C), feed moisture content (FM) (25-35%, w.b.), feeder speed (FS) (8-16 rpm) and screw speed to feeder speed ratio (SS:FS) (8-12)] on quality of pearl millet pasta [cooking time (CT), cooking loss (CL), hydration capacity (HC), swelling capacity (SC), hardness, springiness (SP), chewiness (CH) through response surface methodology (CCRD design)]. The results indicated that raising BT and FM reduced CT, CL, but increased HC, SC, hardness, SP, CH of pearl millet based pasta. HC, SC, hardness, SP and CH of pasta were increased as FS and SS:FS increased, whereas, CT and CL showed decreasing trend. The optimum operating conditions for pear millet based pasta was obtained at BT of 70 °C, FM of 30% (w.b.), FS of 12 rpm and SS:FS ratio of 10 with low CT (≤ 5.25 min), CL (≤ 7.45%) and high HC (≥ 2.30 g g^-1), SC (≥ 3.14 ml g^-1), good hardness (≥ 11.11 N), SP (≥ 1.24 N) and CH (≥ 6.09 N mm).

Association of serum magnesium level with poor glycemic control and renal functions in Nepalese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

BACKGROUND

Hypomagnesaemia has been shown to be associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and its complications. The present study investigated the association of hypomagnesaemia with T2DM and its complications in patients hailed mostly from the western hilly region of Nepal.

METHODS

This study was conducted among 150 type 2 diabetic patients and 150 of non-diabetic controls between May to September 2016. Relevant demographic, anthropometric, physiological and biochemical variables were measured using standard protocols. Statistical analyses were performed by SPSS version 17.0.

RESULTS

Hypomagnesaemia (1.7±0.2mg/dl) was present in 50% of diabetic patients and none in the healthy controls (2.0±0.2mg/dl). It was inversely correlated with levels of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) (r=-0.299), total cholesterol (r=-0.219), low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (r=-0.168) and creatinine (r=-0.215) and directly correlated with serum creatinine based glomerular filtration rate (eGFRcr) (r=0.196). Subjects with hypomagnesaemia were significantly older (57.4±11.5years) and had higher levels of HbA1c (8.4±1.2%) and serum total cholesterol (248.3±72.0mg/dl). The methods of diabetes control did not have a significant influence on serum magnesium level. Patient's age (OR: 1.05 (95% CI-1.01-1.09)), poor glycemic control (OR: 6.78 (95% CI-2.56-17.95)) and low eGFR_cr (OR: 4.89 (95% CI-1.78-13.40)) were the significant predictors of hypomagnesaemia.

CONCLUSION

Half of type 2 diabetic population under study had hypomagnesaemia without regard to the method of diabetes control. Old age, poor glycemic control, and low eGFRcr were the significant predictors of low serum magnesium in these patients. Besides their regular anti-diabetic treatment, clinicians should also consider dietary supplementation of magnesium to prevent further complications of diabetes in these patients.

Evaluation of gamma radiation-induced DNA damage in Aedes aegypti using the comet assay

The study was undertaken to evaluate gamma radiation-induced DNA damage in Aedes aegypti. The comet assay was employed to demonstrate the extent of DNA damage produced in adult male A. aegypti exposed to seven different doses of gamma radiation, ranging from 1 Gy to 50 Gy. DNA damage was measured as the percentage of comet tail DNA. A significant linear increase in DNA damage was observed in all samples; the extent of damage being proportional to the dose of gamma radiation the organism received, except in those treated with 1 Gy. The highest amount of DNA damage was noticed at 1 h postirradiation, which decreased gradually with time, that is, at 3, 6 and 12 h postirradiation. This may indicate repair of the damaged DNA and/or loss of heavily damaged cells as the postirradiation time increased. The comet assay serves as a sensitive and rapid technique to detect gamma radiation-induced DNA damage in A. aegypti. This could be used as a potential biomarker for environmental risk assessment.

Arsenic in the groundwater: Occurrence, toxicological activities, and remedies

Arsenic (As) contamination in groundwater has become a geo-environmental as well as a toxicological problem across the globe affecting more than 100-million people in nearly 21 countries with its associated disease "arsenicosis." Arsenic poisoning may lead to fatal skin and internal cancers. In present review, an attempt has been made to generate awareness among the readers about various sources of occurrence of arsenic, its geochemistry and speciation, mobilization, metabolism, genotoxicity, and toxicological exposure on humans. The article also emphasizes the possible remedies for combating the problem. The knowledge of these facts may help to work on some workable remedial measure.

Productivity, quality and business performance: an empirical study

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to empirically investigate linkage among productivity, quality, and business performance in home-based brassware units in India.

Design/methodology/approach

This study involved action research of home-based brassware units applying procedures for three-stage least-squares (3SLS) regression analysis, with data obtained through questionnaire survey based on convenience sampling.

Findings

This study has supported the established belief that quality leads to productivity, and subsequently productivity leads to better business performance for home-based brassware units in India. The consistent and logical result of this study using 3SLS regression analysis has provided empirical understanding of the appropriate linkage among productivity, quality, and business performance.

Research limitations/implications

This study has limitations of findings, as it studied the home-based brassware units in the Indian context only.

Practical implications

This study implies that marketable home-based brassware products are to be produced by taking into account boundaries of production within the framework of goals and value created by motivation and dependability for monitoring the business performance. Identifying an appropriate linkage among productivity, quality, and business performance may project a holistic evaluation of the policy development related to home-based brassware units.

Originality/value

This is an original study to test empirical linkages among productivity, quality, and business performance using 3SLS regression analysis particularly for home-based brassware units in India.

Effect of gamma radiation on life history traits of Aedes aegypti (L.)

Aedes aegypti is an important vector for Dengue and Dengue hemorrhagic fever. Considering its medical importance and its relevance as a model system, this study was undertaken to evaluate the impact of different doses of gamma radiation for three generations of A. aegypti. Two to three days old virgin males of A. aegypti were irradiated with 15 doses of gamma radiation, ranging from 1 to 50 Gy and were immediately mass mated with the same aged virgin females. Observations were made for changes on their life history traits, particularly fecundity, hatchability, adult emergence, sex ratio and longevity, for three generations. Adult males exposed 30, 35, 40, 45 and 50 Gy doses showed a significant decrease in fecundity in F₀ generations. While hatchability was observed to have decreased with increasing radiation doses from 3 Gy onwards in the F₁ generation, samples irradiated with 30, 35, 40, 45 and 50 Gy maintained significant decline in hatchability in their succeeding generations, F₂ and F₃ also. Similarly, a decline was observed in adult emergence from 3 Gy onwards in all three generations. A male favoring sex ratio distortion was observed at the doses of 35, 40, 45 and 50 Gy in all three generations. Following exposure to 4 Gy, parental males and the resultant progeny showed increased longevity by 10.56 and 8.66 days respectively. Similarly, the F₁ generations of samples irradiated with 30, 35 and 40 Gy exhibited an increase in longevity by 7.16, 7.44 and 6.64 days respectively. Dose response curve for fertility among the three generations was drawn and presented. The effect of radiological exposure on the life history traits of A. aegypti varies with dose for the three generations studied. These results have potential implications in mutational studies and risk assessment and also contribute to a better understanding towards employment of the sterile insect technique in A. aegypti, plausibly paving the way to an effective mosquito genetic control program.

Latitudinal variation and residence time of (137)Cs in Indian coastal environment

Anthropogenic (137)Cs activity concentration, in surface sea water along the western and eastern coast of India has been estimated using the in-situ pre-concentration approach. Activity levels of (137)Cs ranges from 0.09-1.30Bqm(-3) with an overall mean of 0.69±0.29Bqm(-3). Latitudinal variation and higher depletion in activity concentration of (137)Cs at few locations were observed. Temporal change of (137)Cs in sea water along Indian coast unveils a lower effective half-life of 13.8±0.7y in comparison to Asia Pacific regional sea water. The results prevailed that the spatial distribution confers no fresh input of (137)Cs in Indian coastal region.

Evaluation of genotoxicity of the acute gamma radiation on earthworm Eisenia fetida using single cell gel electrophoresis technique (Comet assay)

Earthworms (Eisenia fetida) most suitable biological indicators of radioactive pollution. Radiation-induced lesions in DNA can be considered to be molecular markers for early effects of ionizing radiation. Gamma radiation produces a wide spectrum of DNA. Some of these lesions, i.e., DNA strand breaks and alkali labile sites can be detected by the single-cell gel electrophoresis (SCGE) or comet assay by measuring the migration of DNA from immobilized nuclear DNA. E. fetida were exposed to different doses of gamma radiation, i.e., 1, 5, 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50Gy, and comet assay was performed for all the doses along with control at 1, 3 and 5h post irradiation to evaluate the genotoxicity of gamma radiation in this organism. The DNA damage was measured as percentage of comet tail DNA. A significant increase in DNA damage was observed in samples exposed to 5Gy and above, and the increase in DNA damage was dose dependent i.e., DNA damage was increased with increased doses of radiation. The highest DNA damage was noticed at 1h post irradiation and gradually decreased with time, i.e., at 3 and 5h post irradiation. The present study reveals that gamma radiation induces DNA damage in E. fetida and the comet assay is a sensitive and rapid method for its detection to detect genotoxicity of gamma radiation.

Quality, productivity and business performance in home based brassware manufacturing units

Purpose

– This paper examines the ways in which the concepts of “quality”, “productivity” and “business performance” are dealt in the literature to exhibit that terms used within these fields are vaguely defined and poorly understood. The purpose of this paper is to define quality, productivity and business performance along with their linkages for home-based brassware manufacturing units.

Design/methodology/approach

– This paper reviews related academic literature mostly since past ten years.

Findings

– This paper clarifies meaning and linkages of quality, productivity and business performance in home-based brassware manufacturing units.

Research limitations/implications

– The meaning and interpretations of quality, productivity and business performance may differ for other manufacturing units.

Practical implications

– This paper highlights determinants of quality, productivity and business performance using key performance areas as applied explicitly for home-based brassware manufacturing units. The systems approach has been applied to understand productivity.

Originality/value

– This paper creates terminologies that reduce the existing confusion with the field for applications in academia and brassware industry.

Effects of acute gamma radiation on the reproductive ability of the earthworm Eisenia fetida

Earthworms are the most suitable biological indicators of radioactive pollution because they are the parts of nutritional webs, and are present in relatively high numbers. Four months old Eisenia fetida were exposed to different doses of gamma radiation, namely 1, 2, 3, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55 & 60 Gy to study the effects of radiation on different reproductive parameters. The number of cocoons laid and the hatchlings emerged were recorded for all the selected doses. There was no reduction in cocoon production, however; decreasing size and weight of the cocoons was observed from the samples exposed to 20 Gy and above doses. Significant reductions in the hatchlings were recorded in earthworms exposed to 10 Gy and above doses. The dose response curves for a percentage reduction in hatchlings were constructed. Exposure to radiation dose of 1 and 2 Gy did not show any reduction, however, there was ≈10%, ≈50% and ≈90% decrease in the hatchlings in samples exposed to 3, 15 and 45, 50, 55 and 60 Gy doses respectively. Delayed hatchability was also reported at al exposure level. Histology of irradiated earthworms revealed that the structural damage in the seminal vesicles was prominent at the exposed dose of 3 Gy onwards with complete degeneration on exposure to 60 Gy of gamma radiation.

Comparative study of glycated hemoglobin by ion exchange chromatography and affinity binding nycocard reader in type 2 diabetes mellitus

The aim of this study was to compare the level of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) in type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (DM) patients by two different methods namely Ion Exchange Chromatography and Affinity Binding Nycocard Reader. This is a cross-sectional study conducted on confirmed type 2 diabetes mellitus patients (n = 100) who visited Out Patients Department of the Universal College of Medical Sciences Teaching hospital, Bhairahawa, Nepal from November 2012 to March 2013. The diagnosis of diabetes mellitus was done on the basis of their fasting (164.46 ± 45.33 mg/dl) and random (187.93 ± 78.02 mg/dl) serum glucose level along with clinical history highly suggestive of type 2 DM. The HbA1c values of (7.8 ± 1.9%) and (8.0 ± 2.2%) were found in DM patients as estimated by those two different methods respectively. The highest frequency was observed in HbA1c > 8.0% indicating maximum cases were under very poor glycemic control. However, there were no significant differences observed in HbA1c value showing both methods are comparable in nature and can be used in lab for ease of estimation. The significant raised in HbA1c indicates complications associated with DM and monitoring of therapy become hard for those patients. Despite having standard reference method for HbA1c determination, the availability of report at the time of the patient visit can be made easy by using Nycocard Reader and Ion Exchange Chromatography techniques without any delay in communicating glycemic control, clinical decision-making and changes in treatment regimen.

Development and characterization of lecithin stabilized glibenclamide nanocrystals for enhanced solubility and drug delivery

Novel LNCs (lipid nanocrystals) were developed with an aim to improve the solubility, stability and targeting efficiency of the model drug glibenclamide (GLB). PEG 20000, Tween 80 and soybean lecithin were used as polymer, surfactant and complexing agent, respectively. GLB nanocrystals (NCs) were prepared by precipitation process and complexed using hot and cold melt technique. The LNCs were evaluated by drug loading, saturation solubility (SL), optical clarity, in vitro dissolution, solid state characterization, in vivo and stability analysis. LNCs exhibited a threefold increase in SL and a higher dissolution rate than GLB. The percentage dissolution efficiency was found to decrease with increase in PEG 20000. The average particle size was in the range of 155-842 nm and zeta potential values tend to increase after complexation. X-ray powder diffractometry and differential scanning calorimetry results proved the crystallinity prevailed in the samples. Spherical shaped particles (<1000 nm) with a lipid coat on the surface were observed in scanning electron microscopy analysis. Fourier transform infrared results proved the absence of interaction between drug and polymer and stability study findings proved that LNCs were stable. In vivo study findings showed a decrease in drug concentration to pancreas in male Wistar rats. It can be concluded that LNCs are could offer enhanced solubility, dissolution rate and stability for poorly water soluble drugs. The targeting efficiency of LNCs was decreased and further membrane permeability studies ought to be carried out.

Fate of radionuclides present in Indian fly ashes on its application as soil ameliorant

Natural radioactivity depends primarily on the geological and geographical conditions, and appears at different levels in the soils. Coal contains various organic and inorganic substances including trace quantities of the naturally occurring radionuclides, which are of human health concern. The combustion of coals releases natural radioactive elements in the form of their oxides to the environment. In view of the current researches on fly ash (FA) applications as soil ameliorants, the present study deals with the presence of the natural radionuclides ((226)Ra, (232)Th and (40)K) in the coal ash and their mobilisation through the amendment of coal ash to the soil and crop produce. The study shows the variation in the content of radionuclides in soil, FA and crop produce depending on types of soil and FA, mobilisation of the radionuclides from soil/FA to the plant and interactions between radionuclides and soil, etc. The content of the radionuclides in the soil, FA and crop produce is within the permissible limits.

Intravenous iron in postpartum anemia

OBJECTIVE

To compare effectiveness of intravenous iron-sucrose versus oral ferrous fumarate in postpartum anemia.

METHODS

In this study, 40 women with postpartum anemia with hemoglobin (Hb) less than 8 g/dl within 48 h postpartum were randomised into two groups. Group I consisted of 20 women who received 300-600 mg of intravenous iron-sucrose every alternate day for 3 days. Group II consisted of 20 women who were given 300 mg ferrous fumarate orally daily for 14 days.

RESULTS

On day 14, the increase in mean Hb level in group I was 2.4 g/dl in comparison to 1.2 g/dl in group II. Women in group I had significantly higher mean Hb values on days 7 and 14 (p < 0.001) than women in group II.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that intravenous iron-sucrose increases the Hb level more rapidly than oral ferrous fumarate in postpartum anemia without any serious side effects.

Influence of different desapping agents on the incidence of sapburn, ripening behaviour and quality of mango

Sapburn injury in mango is regarded as the most serious problem as it reduces the aesthetic appeal and downgrade the fruit quality with considerable economic losses. For the control of sapburn injury, physiologically mature mango fruits of cv. Chausa were harvested along with 5-8 cm stalk attached. Immediately after harvesting, fruits were de-stemmed and treated with different desapping agent solutions [calcium hydroxide (1 %), sodium hydroxide (1 %), alum (0.5 and 1 %)] by dipping them for 5 min. In control fruits, the pedicels were removed and sap was allowed to spread freely over the fruit surface. After treatment application, fruits were air-dried and stored at ambient condition (30 ± 2 °C) for 12 days. Among the treatments, fruits desapped with sodium hydroxide (1 %) showed significantly lower (7.6-fold) sapburn injury followed by alum (0.5 %) treatment than control. Respiration and ethylene evolution rates were also significantly suppressed and delayed with sodium hydroxide (1 %) treatment. Fruit firmness and functional properties like, antioxidant capacity, total carotenoids and total phenolics content were also found higher in sodium hydroxide (1 %) treated fruits. Pectin methyl esterase and polygalacturonase enzyme activity were recorded higher in fruits of control and calcium hydroxide treatment however; it was suppressed by sodium hydroxide and alum treatments. Fruit quality parameters like color, total soluble solids, titratable acidity and total sugars content were found higher in calcium hydroxide and sodium hydroxide treated fruits than control and alum treated fruits.

Fluoride in groundwater: toxicological exposure and remedies

Fluoride is a chemical element that is found most frequently in groundwater and has become one of the most important toxicological environmental hazards globally. The occurrence of fluoride in groundwater is due to weathering and leaching of fluoride-bearing minerals from rocks and sediments. Fluoride when ingested in small quantities (<0.5 mg/L) is beneficial in promoting dental health by reducing dental caries, whereas higher concentrations (>1.5 mg/L) may cause fluorosis. It is estimated that about 200 million people, from among 25 nations the world over, may suffer from fluorosis and the causes have been ascribed to fluoride contamination in groundwater including India. High fluoride occurrence in groundwaters is expected from sodium bicarbonate-type water, which is calcium deficient. The alkalinity of water also helps in mobilizing fluoride from fluorite (CaF2). Fluoride exposure in humans is related to (1) fluoride concentration in drinking water, (2) duration of consumption, and (3) climate of the area. In hotter climates where water consumption is greater, exposure doses of fluoride need to be modified based on mean fluoride intake. Various cost-effective and simple procedures for water defluoridation techniques are already known, but the benefits of such techniques have not reached the rural affected population due to limitations. Therefore, there is a need to develop workable strategies to provide fluoride-safe drinking water to rural communities. The study investigated the geochemistry and occurrence of fluoride and its contamination in groundwater, human exposure, various adverse health effects, and possible remedial measures from fluoride toxicity effects.

Spatial distribution of fallout 137Cs in the coastal marine environment of India

The data on the fallout (137)Cs in the coastal marine environment assume significance in view of massive expansion of nuclear power plants in the Asia-Pacific region and to fulfill the benchmark study required to evaluate the possible impact of the Fukushima radioactive releases in the Asia-Pacific region. Measurements of (137)Cs in sea water, along with salinity and temperature, were carried out at 30 locations covering the coastal area of the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal. For the present study the Indian coastal area is divided in three different regions. The (137)Cs concentration in sea water of the entire Indian coastal region varies from 0.30 to 1.25 Bq m(-3). The data obtained in the present study was compared with the North Indian Ocean data and it was observed that there is a 33% decrease in the Arabian Sea (region I), 50% in the high rainfall coastal area (region II) and 24% in the Bay of Bengal (region III).

The bacteriological quality of drinking water in Haldwani block of Nainital district, Uttarakhand, India

A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the bacteriological quality of water in Haldwani block, Nainital District, India. Stratified random sampling was used to categorize water sources and consumer points. In total, 108 samples were collected: 15 from the Gola river, 51 from water taps, 24 from water treatment plants and 18 from tube wells. Samples were tested for coliforms by the most probable number technique. Identification of species was done by standard procedures. Of 108 water samples, 58.8% were found to be polluted. All samples of water (n = 15) from different sites of the Gola river were found to be highly contaminated. Out of 24 water treatment plant samples, four samples were found unsatisfactory, while more than half (51.6%) of its supplies to water taps were polluted. From tube wells and their water taps, 88.8 and 60% samples were found safe for drinking respectively. Bacterial contamination of water treatment plants and their supplies indicates significant disparities in the efficiency of water treatment processes. Contamination of water taps of tube wells suggests leakage of pipes. There is an urgent need to improve these services to ensure the supply of safe water for consumers.

Assessment of doses and risk due to natural radionuclides in edible biota of Domiasiat, Meghalaya

A radiation dose assessment exercise was carried out for the edible biota Solanum nigrum, Carica papaya, Raphnus sativum and Phaseolus domesticus due to naturally available radionuclides (40)K, (238)U and (232)Th in the Domiasiat area in Meghalaya, India. The concentration of radionuclides in biota and corresponding soil was measured by the NaI(Tl) detector having a minimum detection limit (efficiency, 32.4%) and machine counting time of 3000 s. The obtained transfer factor for (40)K was 0.3061, 0.7163, 0.1988 and 0.1279, for (232)Th 0.0003, 2.22E-05, 2.71E-05 and 3.45E-05 and for (238)U 1.46E-05, 9.73E-05, 1.46E-05 and 3.11E-05 (ratio) in each biota, respectively. The detailed physiological and morphological study of the biota was carried out. The point source dose distribution (source↔target) hypothesis was applied for the radiation absorbed fraction. The generated data were modelled using FASSET and obtained un-weighted total dose was 1.78E-04, 6.84E-03, 8.46E-03 and 1.73E-04 μGy h(-1), respectively, finally compared with the IAEA and UNSCEAR data set for screening level dose risk assessment.

Construction and evaluation of high-quality n-ZnO nanorod/p-diamond heterojunctions

Vertically-aligned ZnO nanorods (NRs) arrays were synthesized by a low-temperature solution method on boron-doped diamond (BDD) films. The morphology, growth direction, and crystallinity of the ZnO NRs were studied by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and cathodoluminescence. Electrical characterization of the ZnO NR/BBD heterostructures revealed characteristic p-n junction properties with an on/off ratio of about 50 at +/- 4 V and a small reverse leakage current approximately 1 microA. Moreover, the junctions showed an ideality factor around 1.0 at a low forward voltage from 0 to 0.3 V and about 2.1 for an increased voltage ranging from 1.2 to 3.0 V, being consistent with that of an ideal diode according to the Sah-Noyce-Shockley theory.

Intake of ²³⁸U and ²³²Th through the consumption of foodstuffs by tribal populations practicing slash and burn agriculture in an extremely high rainfall area

The concentration of naturally occurring radionuclides ²³²Th, ²³⁸U was determined using Instrumental Neutron Activation Analysis (INAA) in different food groups namely cereals, vegetables, leafy vegetables, roots and tubers cultivated and consumed by tribal population residing around the proposed uranium mine. The study area is a part of rural area K. P. Mawthabah (Domiasiat) in the west Khasi Hills District of Meghalaya, India located in the tropical region of high rainfall that remains steeped in tribal tradition without much outside influence. Agriculture by Jhum (slash and burn) cultivation and animal husbandry are the main occupation of the tribal populations. A total of 89 samples from locally grown food products were analyzed. The concentration of ²³⁸U and ²³²Th in the soil of the study area was found to vary 1.6-15.5 and 2.0-5.0 times respectively to the average mean value observed in India. The estimated daily dietary intake of ²³⁸U and ²³²Th were 2.0 μg d⁻¹ (25 mBq d⁻¹) and 3.4 μg d⁻¹ (14 mBq d⁻¹) is comparable with reported range 0.5-5.0 μg d⁻¹ and 0.15-3.5 μg d⁻¹ respectively for the Asian population.

Influence of putrescine and carnauba wax on functional and sensory quality of pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) fruits during storage

Functional properties (anthocyanins, antioxidant, ascorbic acid and tannin) and sensory score were determined in pomegranate fruits at two storage temperatures (3 and 5 °C) after treatment with 2 mM putrescine and 1 : 10 carnauba wax (carnauba wax : water). The treatments (putrescine and carnauba wax) were given by immersion method followed by storage up to 60 days. Both treatments retained significantly higher anthocyanins, antioxidant, ascorbic acid, tannin and sensory qualities as compared with control fruits under both the storage conditions. Combined application of putrescine + carnauba wax showed better response in retaining functional properties than putrescine treated or nontreated fruits. The impacts of putrescine and carnauba wax treatments were found more pronounced after 30 days at 3-5 °C storage temperature in retaining functional and sensory qualities. After 60 days of storage, putrescine + carnauba wax retained about 25% higher antioxidant activity both at 3 and 5 °C storage temperatures.

Site specific toxicological risk from fluoride exposure through ingestion of vegetables and cereal crops in Unnao district, Uttar Pradesh, India

A study was carried out to assess toxicological risk from the fluoride (F) exposure due to ingestion of vegetables and cereal crops such as rice and wheat grown in potentially fluoridated area (brick kiln and sodic areas), of different age groups in Unnao district, Uttar Pradesh, India. Fluoride contents in vegetables and cereal were found to be in the order brick kiln sites>sodic sites>normal sites. Among vegetables maximum F concentration was found in spinach and mint, whereas in cereal crops, wheat accumulated more F than rice. The exposure dose of F was determined using estimated daily intake (EDI) and bio-concentration factor (BCF) of F. The children of age group 3-14 years in the potentially fluoridated area were found to be at the risk of fluorosis. The mean BCF value of F was the highest in mint (36.6 mg/kg(dwt) plant/mg/kg(dwt) soil), followed by spinach (33.99 mg/kg(dwt) plant.mg/kg(dwt) soil).

Response of different maturity stages of sapota (Manilkara achras Mill.) cv. Kallipatti to in-package ethylene absorbent

Sapota fruits are highly perishable due to their climacteric nature. The rapid softening of fruits is primarily due to high activity of many oxidative enzymes and liberation of ethylene. Harvest maturity plays a crucial role in deciding the marketability of climacteric fruits in general. Attempt has been made to evaluate the response of ethylene absorbent on variable maturity groups of harvested Sapota cv. Kallipatti with the objective to delay the ripening during transit and extend its marketability during storage at ambient condition (27-32 °C & 65-75% R.H.). Harvested fruits having three different degree of ripeness (as maturity indices viz. mature, half-ripe and ripe) were packed with or without ethylene absorbent sachets (Bioconservación, France) in 10 kg CFB boxes and transported from Dahnu to Delhi covering a distant of approximately 2500 KM by truck on road along with conventional packaging as control. The fruits were evaluated immediately on arrival at Delhi and subsequently during storage for various physical, physiological, biochemical and decay parameters. Mature fruits with ethylene absorbent exhibited maximum delay in ripening, low ethylene liberation, weight loss and high fruit firmness. The response of ethylene absorbent to extend the marketability of ripe fruit was not significant.

Treatment seeking in reproductive age women with RTIs/STIs: a community based cross-sectional study

The socio-cultural and economic contexts in developing countries influence the epidemiology or STIs and helps in making them an important public health priority. This study was carried out to explore the health care seeking pathway of the women suffering from RTls/STls. influence or major socio-demographic variables on treatment seeking pattern. This cross sectional study was carried out comprising or eight hundred reproductive age (15-49 years) women selected following a multistage sampling procedure. The information pertaining to health seeking behaviour were collected from them using a pre-designed pretested interview schedule. Quantum of RTIs/STIs in the study group was estimated and symptomatics were asked specially about time lag between appearance of symptoms and seeking acre; reason for not seeking care; outcome of treatment they have taken if any. Out of total 359 subjects with symptoms of RTls/STls only about one-third (37.3%) had sought treatment. Only a few (4.5%) had sought treatment within 1 month of appearance of symptoms. Considering it to be physiological about half of the subjects (45.3%) did not seek treatment. The treatment seeking pattern was highly associated with the level of education (p = 0.000). Reluctance in seeking treatment, delay in its initiation, prelerence for unqualified practitioners in first consultation and significant association between education and treatment seeking pattern emphasize BCC and service provision for control and prevention of RTls/STls.

Post tsunami changes in soil properties of Andaman Islands, India

A post tsunami study was conducted to assess the changes in soil properties in the Andaman Island, in India. The present study reported tsunami led conversion of acid soils to saline acid soils and acid sodic soils to acid saline sodic soils in the areas South Andaman inundated during tsunami and permanently receded later and in the low-lying area submerged during high tides. Upon intense leaching acid saline soils and acid saline sodic may further develop typical characteristics of acidic soils and acidic sodic soil, respectively. The soil at Guptapara inundated almost due to tsunami with minimal pyrite oxidation has potential to develop into highly acidic soils upon drainage. The tsunami by and large has modified some depositional layer affecting the salt accumulation to a greater extent and iron to a lesser extent and least to sodicity.

Potential fluoride contamination in the drinking water of Marks Nagar, Unnao district, Uttar Pradesh, India

This study was conducted in the summer season (May, 2007). The fluoride concentration along with other physico-chemical parameters in ground water samples was determined in Marks Nagar of Unnao district, Uttar Pradesh (India), since it is the only source of drinking water for the villagers. The fluoride concentration in the water varied from 0.8 to 13.9 mgl(-1) with a mean of 4.02 mgl(-1). The correlation analysis revealed that fluoride had a positive correlation with pH, CO(3), HCO(3), and sodium adsorption ratio (SAR), whereas a negative correlation with Ca and Mg was found. A soil profile was also dug in the area to assess depth-wise fluoride content in the soil. The soil samples and underneath calcium carbonate (CaCO(3)) concretion were analyzed for fluoride content. The percent of soluble fluoride to total fluoride in the soil varied from 25.15 to 4.76% down the soil profile. The soluble fluoride was found to decrease with the increase in the clay content in the soil. The total leachable fluoride in CaCO(3) concretions was found to be 6.08%. It was inferred from this study that the soil and underneath layer of CaCO(3) concretions may be the potential source of fluoride contamination in the shallow drinking water sources of the area.

An assessment of fluoride in the coastal aquifer of the Bara tract in Bharuch district, Gujarat (India)

The fluoride (F) concentration in the coastal aquifers of Bara tract in Bharuch district, Gujarat was determined by potentiometric method using an ion-selective electrode. The fluoride concentration in these aquifers varies between 0.060 to 3.51 mg/L. It was also found that F has a positive correlation with pH and HCO(3)(-) whereas negatively correlated with Ca(2+), indicating that high fluoride in ground water is associated with low calcium content. This suggests that the higher pH of water promotes the leaching of fluoride and thus affects the concentration of fluoride in the ground water. It was also found that there exists no relationship between F, EC, and ground water table from surface in the ground water.

Spatial distribution of uranium and thorium in the surface soil around proposed uranium mining site at Lambapur and its vertical profile in the Nagarjuna Sagar Dam

The understanding and evaluation of the possible interactions of various naturally occurring radionuclides in the world's third largest man-made dam, Nagarjuna Sagar located in Andhra Pradesh, India and built on river Krishna assumed significance with the finding of uranium deposits in locations near the dam. For the present work, surface soil samples from the mineralized area of Lambapur, Mallapuram, Peddagattu and sediment core samples from the Nagarjuna Sagar dam were analyzed for naturally occurring radionuclides namely uranium and thorium using gamma spectrometric technique. Also toxic elements lead and chromium were analysed by the Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometer (EDXRF) technique. Surface soil samples show a variation from 25 to 291 Bq/kg (2.02-23.5 mg/kg) for (238)U and 32-311 Bq/kg (7.9-76.9 mg/kg) for (232)Th. U/Th concentration ratio in surface soil samples ranged from 0.19 to 0.31 and was found comparable with the nation wise average of 0.26. The study of sediment core samples reflected higher U/Th concentration ratio of 0.30-0.33 in the bottom section of the core as compared to 0.22-0.25 in the upper section. The concentration ratio in the upper section of the core was similar to the ratio 0.23 found in the western Deccan Basalt region through which the river originates. A higher concentration of lead and chromium was observed in the upper section of the core compared to bottom section indicating the impact of river input on the geochemical character of dam sediment.