Development and validation of Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry method and its application for clinical evaluation of blood lead levels among occupationally exposed lead smelting plant workers.

The growing interest in estimating the blood lead levels, for early detection of lead exposure, warranted a need for a validated analytical method for trace levels estimation of lead. The present study aimed to develop an analytical method for detecting trace amounts to elevated levels of lead in human blood using the Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry technique and its application in evaluating blood lead levels among occupationally exposed individuals. The method validation was performed with standard test parameters including linearity, recovery, precision, method detection limit, and limit of quantification.

Assessment of exposure to dust, gaseous pollutants and endotoxins in sewage treatment plants of Ahmedabad city, India.

Background: Sewage treatment plant workers (STPs) are exposed to gaseous pollutants (H2S) and bioaerosols and their health is at risk.

Objective: The aim of the study was to evaluate exposures to dust, 1,3 Beta D Glucans, endotoxins and gaseous pollutants in different process plants and to provide suitable recommendations.

Methods: Gaseous pollutants and bioaerosols (inhalable dust, 1,3 beta D-glucans and endotoxins) were evaluated in two sewage treatment plants (STPs) of Ahmedabad city, India.

Correlation of Copper and Zinc in Spontaneous Abortion.

Background: Humans require minute amounts of trace metals to maintain body's normal growth and physiological functions; such elements may also play a vital role in pregnancy and pregnancy outcome. The present study was conducted to assess the role of two trace metals, zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu) in women with history of spontaneous abortion (SAb cases) in comparison to women without such history (controls).

Materials And Methods: In this retrospective study, a total of 277 subjects were enrolled from the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Civil Hospital, Ahmedabad, India.

Role of environmental factors & oxidative stress with respect to fertilization outcome.

Background & Objectives: Oxidative stress, lifestyle factors as also exposure to certain environmental factors are known to affect the fertility status in human beings. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of OS and lifestyle and environmental factors affecting IVF outcome.

Methods: A total of 253 couples were included, and biological samples such as blood, follicular fluid (FF), cumulus cells and semen were collected.

Study of lead exposure to children residing near a lead-zinc mine.

This lead exposure study was conducted in a total of 452 school children in the age group of 9-14 years. Two hundred and ninety-eight exposed children came from the villages situated within a 2.5 km radius of the lead-zinc mine whereas the comparative group children were selected from the villages at least 10 km away from mine.