Enhanced membrane fouling control through self-forming dynamic membrane and sponge-wrapped membrane: A novel membrane bioreactor.

Membrane technology offers a wide variety of advantages in wastewater treatment, but fouling impedes its widespread applications. Hence, in this study, a novel method was tried to control membrane fouling by combining the self-forming dynamic membrane (SFDM) with a sponge-wrapped membrane bioreactor. The configuration is termed a "Novel-membrane bioreactor" (Novel-MBR). To compare the performance of Novel-MBR, a conventional membrane bioreactor (CMBR) was operated under similar operating conditions. CMBR and Novel-MBR were run consequently for 60 and 150 days, respectively. The Novel-MBR was composed of SFDMs in two compartments before a sponge-wrapped membrane in the membrane compartment. In Novel-MBR, the formation times for SFDMs on coarse (125 µm) and fine (37 µm) pore cloth filers were 43 and 13 min, respectively. The CMBR experienced more frequent fouling; the maximum fouling rate was 5.83 kPa/day. In CMBR, the membrane fouling due to cake layer resistance (6.92 × 1012 m-1 ) was high, and that alone contributed to 84% of fouling. In Novel-MBR, the fouling rate was 0.0266 kPa/day, and the cake layer resistance was 0.329 × 1012 m-1 . Also, the Novel-MBR experienced 21 times less reversible fouling and 36 times less irreversible fouling resistance than the CMBR. In Novel-MBR, the formed SFDM and the sponge wrapped on the membrane helped to reduce both reversible and irreversible fouling. With the modification tried in the present study, the Novel-MBR experienced less fouling, and the maximum transmembrane pressure at the end of 150 days of operation was 4 kPa. PRACTITIONER POINTS: CMBR experienced frequent fouling, and the maximum fouling rate was 5.83 kPa/day. Cake layer resistance was dominant in CMBR and contributed to 84% of fouling. The fouling rate of Novel-MBR at the end of the operation was 0.0266 kPa/day. Novel-MBR is expected to perform for ≈3380 days to reach the maximum TMP of 35 kPa.

Performance evaluation of membrane bioreactor coupled with self-forming dynamic membrane.

In the present study, Conventional Membrane Bioreactor (C-MBR) and Modified Membrane Bioreactor (M-MBR) were run consequently to compare the fouling reduction through incorporated modification. M-MBR was developed by introducing a Self-forming dynamic membrane (SFDM) formed on a nylon cloth filter ahead of a flat sheet membrane. The coarse cloth filter and fine cloth filter had a pore size of 125 µm and 37 µm, respectively and it took 45 min and 12 min to form a dynamic membrane on them. The C-MBR experienced frequent fouling with cake layer resistance (RC) as the dominant one which contributed to 83.98% of total resistance (RT). Whereas in M-MBR the cake layer resistance (67.86% of RT) and pore blocking resistance (RP) (1.31% of RT) was less compared to C-MBR. The formed SFDM on nylon cloth filters led to the reduced RC and RP in M-MBR. Therefore, the operation of M-MBR was prolonged, which took 150 days to reach 8.6 KPa (0.057 KPa/day). Eventually, it was concluded that the modification made in this study significantly reduced the fouling.

Revealing the effect of seed phosphorus concentration on seedling vigour and growth of rice using mutagenesis approach.

The harvested plant products, specifically, the grains of cereals are major drivers of soil phosphorus (P) depletion. However, the breeding or biotechnology efforts to develop low P seeds have not been attempted because of possible adverse effects on seedling vigour and crop establishment. Several studies have contradictory observations on influence of seed P on seedling vigour. Lack of appropriate genetic material has been the major bottleneck in reaching the consensus. In this study, we used 30 EMS induced mutants of rice cultivar Nagina22 to understand the role of seed P on seedling vigour and associated physiological processes. Seedling vigour, morpho-physiological characteristics, acid phosphatases, alpha-amylase, and expression of P transporter genes were analyzed in seedlings obtained from seeds of high and low grain P mutants. The study suggests that seed P has a significant role on seedling vigour, chlorophyll content and photosynthesis process of young seedlings, and P transport from roots. Notably, we identified few mutants such as NH4791, NH4785, NH4714, NH4663, NH4614, and NH4618 which showed least influence of low seed P on seedling vigour and other metabolic processes. Therefore, these mutants can be used in breeding programs aiming for development of low P grains. Also, these and other identified mutants can be used to decipher the genetic and molecular mechanisms regulating the differential response of seed P on germination, seedling vigour and several other physiological processes influencing the crop growth and establishment.

Comparison of viscosities of human breast milk versus infant milk formulae with and without addition of sweetening agents.

Context: Early childhood caries is a major health problem affecting children worldwide. Although incorrect feeding practices hold a prime position in the etiology, there are gaps in the literature pertaining to the physical properties of milk. Aim: To assess the viscosity of human breast milk (HBM) versus infant milk formulae, with and without the addition of sweetening agents. Materials and Methods: All commercially available infant milk formulae (60 samples) and breast milk from 30 donor mothers were assessed for viscosity using Brookfield DV2T viscometer. The study period was from April 2019 to August 2019. Viscosity of infant milk formulae sweetened with sugar, honey, and brown sugar was further investigated and compared with that of HBM. Statistical Analysis: Inter-group and intra-group mean viscosity was compared using independent t-test and repeated-measures ANOVA. Results: Viscosity of HBM ranged from 18.36 centipoise (cP) to 91.30 cP, the mean viscosity being 45.7 cP. Viscosity values varied for each formula group, the least being as low as 5.1 cP and the highest being 89.3 cP. The mean viscosities of each group were in the range of 33 to 49 cP. Conclusions: HBM was found to have a tendency toward higher viscosity than most of the infant milk formulae. Also, varied viscosity values were obtained when commonly used sweetening agents were added to infant milk formulae. Greater viscosity of HBM might increase its adherence to enamel surface leading to prolonged demineralization and potentially altering the caries risk, needs to be investigated further.

Comparative Study of the Analgesic Efficacy of Intrathecal Fentanyl with Ultrasound-Guided Transversus Abdominis Plane Block after Lower Segment Cesarean Section.

BACKGROUND: This study was conducted to compare the analgesic efficacy of intrathecal fentanyl with ultrasound-guided transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block after lower segment cesarean section. The objectives of the study were to compare the effects of subarachnoid fentanyl versus TAP block with respect to duration of postoperative analgesia, time for first analgesic request, total analgesic consumption in 24 h, time to first breastfeed and Apgar score at 1 and 5 min. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty-two patients undergoing elective or emergency cesarean delivery were recruited for the study in a prospective, randomized, single-blind manner. The patients were randomly allocated to either intrathecal fentanyl group (Group F) or TAP block group (Group T) after determining the eligibility criteria. Group F patients received subarachnoid block with 10 mg of 0.5% bupivacaine heavy with 25 mcg of fentanyl. Group T patients received subarachnoid block with 10 mg of 0.5% bupivacaine heavy prior to surgery and at the end of surgery, they received TAP block with 0.25% bupivacaine 20 mL on each side. RESULTS: Group T had significantly longer time for the first analgesic request (7.65 ± 1.23 h) than group F (4.10 ± 0.32 h). The total analgesic consumption in 24 h was significantly less in Group T (1.0 ± 0) than Group F (2.13 ± 0.34). The Visual Analogue Scale scores at rest and on movement were significantly less in Group T than Group F at all-time points. The Apgar score at 1 and 5 min and time to first breast feed were comparable between the two groups. The incidence of side effects was less in Group T. CONCLUSION: This study indicated that ultrasound-guided TAP block has a better analgesic as well as safety profile compared to intrathecal fentanyl for cesarean delivery.

Assessment of malocclusion severity and orthodontic treatment needs in 12-15-year-old school children of Namakkal District, Tamil Nadu, using Dental Aesthetic Index.

OBJECTIVES: The present study was aimed to assess the severity of malocclusion and orthodontic treatment needs among 12-15-year-old schoolchildren in rural area of Namakkal district, Tamil Nadu, India, using the Dental Aesthetic Index (DAI). MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted among a sample of 1078 schoolchildren (12-15 years of age) who were selected by two-stage cluster sampling technique. Severity of malocclusion and orthodontic treatment needs were assessed according to the DAI using a specially designed survey pro forma with the aid of the WHO's Oral Health Survey: Basic Methods. Based on the distribution of data, analysis of variance and unpaired student t-test were used. RESULTS: Out of the total of 1078 children examined, 528 (49%) were males and 550 (57%) were females. The results indicate that 82.74% of the schoolchildren were found with little or no malocclusion requiring no orthodontic treatment. The gender-wise distribution of DAI score among children aged 12 years had significant difference between males (20.43 ± 3.67) and females (21.62 ± 4.335) (P = 0.015) and children aged 15 years also showed highly significant difference among gender (P = 0.000). CONCLUSION: Malocclusion not only impacts the appearance of the person but also affects the self-esteem and psychological well-being. This is the first step in understanding the treatment need so that further steps can be taken in preventive and interceptive care.

A comparative evaluation of mandibular incisor decrowding with coaxial and optiflex arch wires and their load-deflection rates.

AIM: The aim of this study is to determine and compare the load-deflection rate of optiflex arch wire with that of coaxial arch wire and to determine and compare the decrowding efficiency of optiflex arch wire with coaxial arch wire within a period of 45 days. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Load-deflection rates of optiflex and coaxial wires were found using the INSTRON (4300) machine. A steady load was given to the wire to make it deflect, and the load required to deflect the wire for every 1 mm up to 5 mm, were noted and tabulated. A total of 10 patients, 10-25 years of age (seven males and three females) were selected. All patients had angles Class I malocclusion with a crowding discrepancy of 3-9 mm (according to little's index). All patients required first premolar extraction. Pre (0 day) and post (45(th) day) treatment study models and lateral cephalograms were taken for all patients and evaluated. RESULTS: Optiflex had a low load-deflection when compared to coaxial wire. Clinically, optiflex and coaxial wire had similar decrowding efficiency. In both, study model and cephalometric analysis, there was no statistically significant value when comparing their mean variables. CONCLUSION: Optiflex is an appropriate wire for patients seeking esthetics during fixed appliance therapy as it combines esthetics and efficiency by delivering light continuous forces.

Changes in quality of life during orthodontic correction of midline diastema.

AIM: The aim of our study is to evaluate the changes in quality of life among patients treated for maxillary midline diastema by fixed orthodontic appliances. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This prospective longitudinal study consists of 40 patients of age group 20-30 years who underwent orthodontic correction of midline diastema. The patient's quality of life is evaluated using 22-item orthognathic quality of life questionnaire. They were evaluated prior to appliance therapy, 1 month after appliance fixation, 4(th) and 8(th) month during treatment and 1 month after treatment. RESULTS: Our results showed moderate improvement in quality of life as early as at the start of orthodontic therapy. The response was equal among both sexes. The quality of life experience improved only mildly during the orthodontic treatment. However, the condition specific quality of life at the end of appliance therapy improved by nearly 50% when compared with prior to treatment. CONCLUSION: Our study has concluded that the correction of midline diastema has improved the quality of life among young people by nearly 50%. The acceptance to orthodontic therapy and patient perception toward fixed appliance has demonstrated remarkable improvement in quality of life during the treatment. Our study calls for additional patient counseling and motivation during the course of fixed appliance therapy.

Interdisciplinary approach for improved esthetic results.

This clinical report describes an interdisciplinary (orthodontic, prosthodontics and operative dentist) approach for the coordinated treatment of an adult patient diagnosed with severely mutilated dentition secondary to caries lesion warranting restorative procedures that was facilitated with orthodontic treatment. The patient's specific esthetic expectation for the anterior teeth and improved smile were successfully met through planned treatment, including orthodontic tooth movement, restoration and porcelain conversion crowns. Such coordinated interdisciplinary evaluations and treatment are necessary for improved esthetics.

Transperitoneal laparoscopic approach for retrocaval ureter.

We had a 14 year old boy, who presented with recurrent attacks of right loin pain. Investigations revealed a retrocaval ureter. A transperitoneal three port laparoscopic approach was undertaken. The retrocaval portion of ureter was excised. A double J stent was placed laparoscopically and ureteroureterostomy was done with intracorporeal suturing. The patient was discharged after 72 hours and the stent was removed on the 15(th) day. Follow up showed regression of hydronephrosis. We recommend this approach compared to open surgery, as it offers several advantages compared to conventional open surgery like decreased postoperative pain, decreased hospital stay and a cosmetically more acceptable surgical scar.

Development of motivation scale - clinical validation with alcohol dependents.

This study focusses on the development of a comprehensive multi-dimensional scale for assessing motivation for change in the alcohol dependent population. After establishing face validity, the items evolved were administered to a normal sample of 600 male subjects in whom psychiatric illness was ruled out. The data thus obtained was subjected to factor analysis. Six factors were obtained which accounted for 55.2% of variance. These together formed a 80 item five point scale and norms were established on a sample of 600 normal subjects. Further clinical validation was established on 30 alcohol dependent subjects and 30 normals. The status of motivation was found to be inadequate in alcohol dependent individuals as compared to the normals. Split-half reliability was carried out and the tool was found to be highly reliable.

Social competence in schizopherenics, neurotic depressives and normals.

The purpose of this investigation is the assesment of social competence in schizophrenics, neurotic depressives and normals. Social competence has been viewed according to the dimension given by Argyle (1969). Twenty subjects were studied in each group. The California Test of Personality was used to assess social competence in terms of personal and social adjustment. Extraversion and dominance were measured using the second order factors II and IV of the 16 P.F. Questionnaire. Based on an interview schedule, the subjects were evaluated by a significant other on their social competence and role taking ability, as seen premorbidly and at present. Statistical analysis showed that the normals differ significantly (0.01) from the clinical groups, i.e. they show better social competence. Correlation was high only for the neurotic depressive group for social competence, chi. square values were not significant for any group but useful trends were observed. The results have been discussed in the light of the social skills model of Argyle and Kendon (1967).

Personality characteristics of alcoholics dropping out of treatment.

Twenty seven male alcoholics were prospectively studied to find out the characteristics of those who drop out soon after discharge from the hospital. Seven persons, failed to make a single visit over a six-month period, and were termed 'dropouts'.On admission, after detoxification, all 27 patients were individually administered, the following tests:(1) Bhatia's Performance Test of Intelligence(2) Multiphasic Questionnaire(3) Internal-External Locus of Control Scale and(4) 16 P. F. Questionnaire (Form C).Dropouts did not differ from the completers on any of the socio-demographic or clinical variables. Two personality characteristics significantly differentiated the dropouts from the completers.