Response of New Zealand Rabbits to Drinking Water Treated with Alum and PolyDADMAC
Response of New Zealand Rabbits to Drinking Water Treated with Alum and PolyDADMAC
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Date
2014-02
Authors
B. Medani, Amna
M. N. Gabril, Hanan
M.A. El Bedwi, Samia
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
uofk
Abstract
PolyDADMAC (Polydiallyl-Dimethyl Ammonium Chloride) and Alum
(Aluminium Sulphate) were the chemical agents used for potable water
flocculation in Khartoum State. The response of New Zealand rabbits to
drinking water treated with alum and polyDADMAC in terms of serum
changes in electrolytes was studied. Six New Zealand rabbits of balanced
sexes were purchased, clinically adapted for two weeks and divided into 2
groups, control (group 1) and test ( group 2). The test group was orally
given a dose of 1% polyDADMAC and 1% alum in a blend ratio of 1:2,
respectively, for an experimental period of 10 weeks. Test chemicals
blend was similar to the dose applied by Khartoum Water Plant, during
flood season, for human consumption. Sera were analyzed for electrolytes
prior to the experiment and, thereafter, at weekly intervals. Serum
calcium, phosphorus, iron and magnesium levels showed remarkable (P≤
0.01 - 0.001) decreases compared to the control, the fact which can be
attributed to the hepatic damage induced by test chemicals. Sodium and
potassium levels were not determined. The test group had significantly
(P≤ 0.01) low iron that can be attributed to the direct effect of alum.
Intestinal wall with spotted white colour (probably due to alum causing
focal enteritis), was greatly affected with the irritant alum and/or its
metabolites. When the ion-exchanged resin was used to remove poisons
from water, it precipitated by alum. It is more apt to gripe; the salt
intensifies the action of resin and hence produces the hydragogue effect.
This action was very clear in the congested mesenteric blood vessels and
was symptomatically manifested by diarrhoea and salivation due to
nausea. Alum and polyDADMAC which are currently used in potable
water treatment in Khartoum State, proved toxic to New Zealand rabbits
in terms of changes in electrolytes coupled with enteropathies.
Description
This paper had been presented for promotion at the university of Khartoum. To get the full text please contact the other at Amna B. Medani1, Hanan M. N. Gabril, Samia M.A. El Bedwi
Keywords
Alum; PolyDADMAC; clinical signs; electrolytes; toxicity