Atomic asymmetry Subject

Dipole polarization-effect moisture sensors utilize the electrical asymmetry around the water molecule (two slightly positively charged H2 atoms and a slightly negatively charged 02 atom). When these molecules are subjected to an electric field, they tend to align with the electric field because of their dipole nature. At a frequency of 20 kHz, moisture can be detected by this method. 

Albendazole is a broad-spectrum antihelminthic drug used to treat the tropical parasitic disease, human neurocysticercosis. Albendazole contains a sulfur group that is subject to oxidation to an active sulfoxide metabolite. The S-oxide metabolite forms a center of asymmetry at the sulfur atom, thus conferring chirality to the molecule. Albendazole sulfoxide steady-state pharmacokinetics have been studied in 18 patients with confirmed active neurocysticercosis after repeated dose administration of 5mg/kg thrice daily for 8 days [44]. A high degree of stereoselectivity was observed in the plasma concentrations of the sulfoxide metabolite, with Cmax and AUCss (-I-) (—) ratios of 5.5 and 9.2, respectively. It is not known if there is stereoselectivity in the antihelminthic activity of the (-1-)- and (—)-sulfoxide metabolites of albendazole. 

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