Kanai Lal Barik

Kinetics and mechanism of the interaction of DL-penicillamine with cis-diaqua(cis-1,2-diaminocyclohexane)platinum(II) perchlorate in aqueous medium

The kinetics of the interaction of DL-penicillamine with cis-[Pt(cis-dach)(OH2)2]2+ has been studied spectrophotometrically as a function of [cis-[Pt(cis-dach)(OH2)2]2+], [DL-penicillamine], and temperature at a particular pH (4.0), where the complex exists predominantly as the diaqua species and DL-penicillamine as a zwitterion. The substitution reaction proceeds via rapid outer sphere association, followed by two slow consecutive steps. The first is the conversion of title complex into an inner sphere complex and the second is the slower chelation step whereby another aqua ligand is replaced. The association equilibrium constant (K E) for the outer sphere complex formation has been evaluated together with rate constant for two subsequent steps. The activation parameters for both steps have been evaluated using the Eyring equation: ( = 36 ± 4 kJ mol−1, = −175 ± 12 JK−1 mol−1 and = 44 ± 1 kJ mol−1, = −189 ± 3 JK−1 mol−1). The low enthalpy of activation and large negative value of entropy of activation are consistent with an associative mode of activation for both consecutive steps. The kinetic study has been substantiated by conductivity measurement, product isolation, IR and ESI-MS spectroscopic analysis.

A qualitative study on perceptions of first time mothers about breastfeeding

Twenty two percent of neonatal deaths could be prevented, if all newborns are put to the breast within the first hour of birth. Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) includes initiating breastfeeding of the newborn as early as possible after birth and continuing it till 6 months of age without supplementary bottle feeding but permitting the infant to receive ORS and other medications whenever required. It is an essential element for the satisfactory growth and development of infants. Breast milk is highly nutritious and provides excellent energy to the infants. It is also a rich source of protein, iron, vitamin A, and a variety of bioactive components like IgA, lactoferrin, K-caesin, cytokines, growth factors and glutathione peroxides which have anti-infective, antioxidant and growth promoting properties.

Scurvy – Still an added co-morbidity in Children with Cerebral Palsy

Scurvy is caused by prolonged severe dietary deficiency of ascorbic acid. Although it is uncommon today, it still exists in high risk groups, particularly in those with abnormal dietary habits, mental illness or physical disability. Health care providers must inquire about nutritional habits and keep in mind the risk of nutritional deficiency while treating a child with neurodevelopmental disabilities. Otherwise there is every possibility to miss the diagnosis of scurvy. Here we have described a case of scurvy in a child with cerebral palsy who presented with the clinical manifestations along with all the classical radiological features of scurvy.

A Rare Case of Conjoined Twin: Deradelphus with Review of Existing Literature

Occurrence of conjoined twins is rare but severe complication of multigestational pregnancies. Many conjoined twin pregnancies are diagnosed before reaching viability. We present a case report of a rare variety of conjoined twins i.e. cephalothoracopagus monster also called deradelphus. It was delivered to a multigravid woman prematurely at 28wks of gestation by normal vaginal delivery and was a stillborn. It was not diagnosed antenatally because of the lack of prenatal follow up. Conjoined fetuses can be detected on prenatal screening and ultrasound. This case reinforces the importance of prenatal follow up.