Search results for “acid”

Degradation assessment of Vinyl Ester Matrix Fiber Reinforced Plastics Exposed to Cyclic Hydrochloric Acid Concentrations using Gravimetric Analysis for Chemical Storage Tank use

The roof of an HCl fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) chemical tank failed by accident after it had been operated for less than its expected lifetime. A possible cause is the change in day and night temperature, which lead to the cyclic change in the concentration of HCl vapor in contact with roof part. To investigate this possibility, a detailed analysis on the durability of the material exposed to cyclic solution concentration is required. In this research, vinyl ester-glass fiber composite specimens were exposed to 35 mass % and 0 mass% of HCl alternately at 40°C to replicate cyclic concentration exposure in both the vapor and liquid phases. The mass uptake and penetration depth of HCl as well as the strength loss of the material were investigated. Mass uptake and thickness change in vapor phase shows two times higher than liquid phase, at 3.5% and 6% respectively. This occurs due to differences in the concentration of solutions that diffuse to the specimen in the vapor phase and liquid phase. This phenomenon arises from variations in the concentration of solutions that diffuse to the specimen in both vapor and liquid phases. The diffusion process is facilitated by osmotic pressure, leading to material swelling and contributing to their degradation. The result of flexural strength measurement of specimens indicated a decreasing trend as exposure time increased. The flexural strength decreases by up to 36% due to plasticization. The Cl and water content profile in specimens that obtained from elemental mapping of cross-sections using Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) are enhancing the study on how materials degrade, which may be a reason for damage to FRP tank roofs.

Soluble Biobased Substances in soil or Salicylic Acid on leaves affect the foliar pH and soil biovariability of Grapes-as explained by the NIR Spectroscopy of Litterbags and Teabags

The purpose of the trial was to check the effects of two grapevine treatments on the plant activity and on the bioactivity and biovariability of the soil. An alkaline complex of Soluble Biobased Substances (SBS) was used in soil at 30 g per plant in a single solution. Salicylic Acid (SA) was used on leaves at 150 mg l-1 every two weeks at 50 ml plant. The plants were examined for their foliar pH and NIR spectra. The soil bioactivity was monitored by means of hay-Litterbag-NIRS (LBN) in combination with the Teabag Index (TBI), using rooibos and green tea that had been buried for 60 days. The evolution of the TBI presented here concerns the TBI-NIRS spectroscopic method used for discriminant analysis. A new algorithm was used to estimate the soil microbiome from the green Teabag spectra. The obtained results showed that the plants and the soil responded to the treatments. In fact, SBS, but not SA, lowered the leaf pH by 5%, an unexpected and original result. Both treatments increased the variability of the leaf composition, with a lower discrimination, based on the NIR spectra, from the Control (75%) to 44% (SA) and 38% (SBS). The TBI method, which is based on weights, was less efficient (67%) than the TBI-NIRS of rooibos (96%) or the LBN of hay (80%), but it was like the TBI-NIRS of green tea (74%). The LBN analyses indicated that the mycorrhizal index had increased by 8% in SA but had reduced by 7% in SBS, while both treatments reduced the activity of the microbes, which did not affect the soil respiration rate. The mineral N in the soil was substantially raised by about 11÷69%. The Taxa profiles showed marked deviations from the Control. Moreover, the SBS treatment reduced the Glomeromycota by 35%, which matched to the reduction in the mycorrhizal index. The most favored Bacteria from the treatments were Proteobateriaand Actinobacteria, with Mortierellomycota being the most penalized. Neither treatment affected the production, but both delayed the technological maturity by 9-11%, while the SBS retarded the phenolic maturity by about 18%. It has been concluded that a simple treatment of vines can affect the bioactivity in the leaves and berries as well as the biovariability of the soil.

Dogonyaro-Leaf-Extract as Inhibitor for Aluminum Corrosion in Acid

Background of this paper investigates dogonyaro-leaf-extract as inhibitor for aluminum corrosion in 0.3-M hydrochloric acid, and its acceptability as original. In the methods, the extract was analyzed for phytochemicals and corrosion test performed on aluminum sheet before immersion in acid incorporated extract. Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS), tests were performed over frequency of 100 KHz–10 mHz and 10 mV peak to peak perturbation amplitude to obtain the corrosion potential. Tests were run at 30oC ± room temperature in aerated quiescent solutions. In weight loss method, coupons were suspended in aerated solutions before immersion in 20% mixture of sodium hydroxide and zinc dust to stop further corrosion. Morphology of the mirrorlike finished arid surface aluminum was measured with scanning electron microscope SEM. In the results, various phytochemicals were observed; significant effect of incorporating inhibitor on EIS data recorded and optimum extract efficiency was 99.46%, at 10 g/l, 60oC, within 6 hours. This result was validated and 99.3% efficiency obtained. Introduction of extract into acid corrodents caused increase of charge transfer resistance and reduced double layer capacitance. A warm arid clean coupon evolved after SEM test. In conclusion, there was increase in efficiency of inhibition as inhibitor concentration and temperature increased. Similarly, close responses towards the factors for Inhibition occur. Measured polarization showed that extract inhibited both cathodic and anodic reaction processes and thus, is classified as mixed type inhibitor. The investigations thus proved the extract as excellent corrosion inhibitor for aluminum in 0.3-M hydrochloric-acid.

Dual Energy Computed Tomography and Effect on the Management of Uric Acid Renal Calculi

Attenuation differences from 2 x-ray sources allow differentiation and characterization of stone types with similar radiation dose compared to single-energy CT scan. The difference is shown in colours, allowing preoperative prediction and management of stones. We determined the effect of DECT-KUB on urological management of patients with uric acid stones since it was first introduced in our centre. 50 patients with uric acid stones were selected from 2 year groups, each with 25 patients and their urological managements were reviewed retrospectively. We concluded that DECT-KUB is an accurate way of determining the chemical characteristics of renal calculi and can alter patients’ management. It has gained wide acceptance among clinicians in our centre and is now widely used to plan urological management of patients with renal calculi. Based on urological management comparison of patients who presented in the year 2011 with uric acid stones and patients in the year 2020, we concluded that patients with uric acid stones based on DECT-KUB findings can start dissolution therapy instead of surgical extraction or lithotripsy prior to biochemical analysis results become available. Although utility of DECT-KUB is widely accepted among clinicians in our centre it may not be available worldwide and this is the limiting factor in its universal use.

Iodometric Determination of Neutral Amino Acids Using Potassium Iodate

In this work, we have reported a simple, cost effective and reliable method for the determination of neutral α-amino acids iodometrically by making use of potassium iodate. This volumetric method determines amino acids instantly, thereby greatly reduces the time of determination.

Ameliorative Potential of Chlorogenic Acid on Rotenone-Induced Neurotoxicity in Drosophila Melanogaster Model

Chlorogenic acid (CA), abundantly found in green coffee beans, is a phenolic compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties amongst others. Exposure to rotenone, a natural pesticide, induces Parkinsonism (a type of neurodegeneration) through the induction of mitochondria dysfunction and oxidative stress. Phytochemicals with antioxidant properties may be promising in attenuating this condition. In this research, the ameliorative role of CA on rotenone-induced toxicity in Drosophila melanogaster was evaluated. Drosophila melanogaster (Harwich strain, 1- 3 days old) was used. 6 groups of five vials each with 50 flies/vial were exposed to CA (0; control (2% ethanol), 7.5, 15, 30, 45 and 60 mg/kg diet) for 28 days in the longevity analysis. A 28-day survival assay was carried out with rotenone (0, 250 and 500 μM). CA (30 mg/kg diet) was selected to evaluate its ameliorative potential on rotenone. For the study, the flies were divided into four groups of five vials each and exposed to CA and rotenone; Group A- control (2% ethanol), Group B- CA only, Group C- rotenone only and Group D- CA (30 mg/kg diet)+ rotenone (500 μM)for 7 days. Thereafter, the homogenate was evaluated for oxidative stress status, rate of emergence, negative geotaxis and acetyl cholinesterase activity. CA (30 mg/kg diet) extended the lifespan of flies by 21.4%. Also, CA ameliorated rotenone-induced perturbation in catalase, glutathione-S-transferase and acetyl cholinesterase activities, total thiol and glutathione levels, and behavioral deficit (p < 0.05). CA may have ameliorative effect against rotenone-induced toxicity and Parkinsonism.

Study of the Consciousness Energy Healing Treatment and It’s Effect on the Isotopic Abundance Ratio of Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C)

Ascorbic acid is a water-soluble vitamin (Vitamin C) essential for both the plants and animals for the metabolic process. In this study, the liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) analytical technique was used to characterize the structural properties and isotopic abundance ratio to evaluate the effect of the Trivedi Effect®-Consciousness Energy Healing Treatment on L-ascorbic acid compared to the control sample. The ascorbic acid sample was divided into control and treated parts. Only the treated part received the Trivedi Effect®-Consciousness Energy Healing Treatment remotely by a well-known Biofield Energy Healer, Mahendra Kumar Trivedi. The control and treated samples showed a chromatographic peak at retention time (Rt) 1.8 minutes exhibited the deprotonated molecular ion peak at m/z 175 (M-H)- (calculated for C6H7O6-, 175.02) in the mass spectra. The peak area of the treated sample (12817614.01) was significantly increased by 8.81% compared to the control sample (11779918.9). The LC-MS based isotopic abundance ratio of PM+1/PM (2H/1H or 13C/12C or 17O/16O) in the treated ascorbic acid was significantly increased by 23.22% compared with the control sample. Thus,13C, 2H, and17O contributions from (C6H7O6)- to m/z 176 in the treated ascorbic acid were significantly increased compared with the control sample. The increased isotopic composition of the treated ascorbic acid might have altered the neutron to proton ratio in the nucleus. The changes in isotopic abundance could be due to changes in nuclei possibly through the interference of neutrino particles via the Trivedi Effect®-Consciousness Energy Healing Treatment. The increased isotopic abundance ratio and peak area of the treated ascorbic acid may increase the intra-atomic bond strength and its stability. This novel ascorbic acid after the Trivedi Effect®-Consciousness Energy Healing Treatment would be very useful to design more efficacious pharmaceutical formulations against scurvy, obesity, cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, rheumatoid arthritis, Alzheimer's disease, cancer, etc.

Evaluation of Anti-oxidation and Therapeutic Effect of Biofield Energy Healing Based Novel Test Formulation Using TNBS (Tri Nitro Benzene Sulfonic Acid) - Induced Ulcerative Colitis in Sprague Dawley Rats

The aim of the study was to evaluate the antioxidant potential of Biofield Energy Healing (the Trivedi Effect®) based test formulation using TNBS-induced colitis animal model. Each ingredient of the test formulation was divided into two parts. One part was denoted as the control without any Biofield Energy Treatment, while the other part was treated with Biofield Energy Treatment by Mr. Mahendra Kumar Trivedi and defined as the Biofield Energy Treated test formulation. The colon tissue was used for the estimation of anti-oxidation activity for catalase (CAT), glutathione (GSH), lipid peroxidation (LPO) product, myeloperoxidase (MPO), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) using standard procedure. The antioxidant results showed that the CAT level was significantly increased by 95.4% (p≤0.001), 72.3%, 47.6%, and 13.9% in the Biofield Energy Treated test formulation (G5), Biofield treatment per se to animals (-15 days)(G6), Biofield Energy Treatment per se to animals plus Biofield Energy Treated test formulation (-15 day) (G8), and Biofield Energy Treatment per se to animals plus untreated test formulation (G9) groups, respectively as compared to the untreated test formulation group (G4). Further, colon GSH activity was found to be significantly increased by 23.2% (p≤0.05) 15.4%, and 15.5%, in G5, G6, and G9 groups, respectively with respect to G2 group. In addition, colon LPO activity data suggested that it was decreased by 12%, 17%, 18%, and 19.1% in G5, G6, Biofield Energy Treated test formulation (-15 day) (G7), and G8 groups, respectively, as compared with the G2 group. The level of MPO showed a significant (p≤0.001) reduced level by 27.9%, 22%, 14.5%, 16.6%, and 25.3% in G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively as compared with the G2 group. The level of colon SOD was increased by 16.7% and 14.2% in the G5 and G9 groups, respectively as compared with the untreated test formulation, G4 group. Colon GPx level was increased by 177.6%, 71.4%, 71.4%, 161.2%, and 114.3% in G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively as compared with the G2 group. Thus, it can be concluded that the Trivedi Effect®-Consciousness Energy Healing based test formulation and Biofield Energy per se has significant colon anti-oxidation profile, which can be used to improve many autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, stress management and prevention, and anti-aging by improving overall health.

Use of Microfluidic Assays to Develop Reliable and Economic Nucleic Acid Application Technologies, Employing MicroRNAs for the Diagnostic Screening of Colon Cancer in Human Stool in Low-Resource Settings

Isolation methods that employ readily-available inexpensive supplies on the open market, which are reliable, as well as economical, such as nucleic acid amplification techniques (NAAT) based on microfluidic technology in low-resource research settings (LRRS) that meets the ASSURED guidelines are essential to develop a noninvasive diagnostic colon cancer screen in stool using micro(mi)RNA molecules. A combination of a microfluidic-based MiRNA stool test with a reliable rolling circle amplification/detection method applied to the quantification of miRNA molecules, result in an affordable sensitive and specific isothermal method for the noninvasive quantitative detection of miRNAs in LRRS. Scientists and engineers have become interested in miRNAs, and they have intensified their efforts to apply emerging simple detection tools to the important bioanalytical challenge of quantifying these small 18-26 nt long molecules. Some of the proposed approaches incorporate novel material, such as simple centrifuges and methods based on microfluidic technology, while others utilize the interesting biological properties of these molecules, such as forming branched RCA structures, allowing for the detection of these biomarker molecules at an attomolar "aM" concentration level, using low cost extraction and isothermal amplification methods in LRRS. We have been interested in studying colorectal cancer (CRC) because it is the 3rd most common malignancy worldwide, and stool can be obtained noninvasively from the patients. We have focused in this research on colon cancer (CC) because it is more common in the USA than rectal cancer (RC). The innovation of our approach lies in the exploratory use of an affordable, quantitative miRNA profiling in noninvasive stool samples in LRRS, whose extracted fragile total RNA is stabilized shortly after excretion from stool by commercially available kits, so it does not ever fragment, followed by quantitative standardized analytical tests that are neither labor intensive, nor require expensive instrumentation, in order to develop apanel of novel miRNA genes for the noninvasive diagnostic screening of early left and right sporadic colon cancers, more economically, and with higher sensitivity and specificity than any other colon cancer screening test currently available on the market. To show the clinical sensitivity and specificity of the proposed quantitative miRNA test using simple methodologies in LRRS,the miRNA results are to be correlated with FOBT, colonoscopy, and pathology data. Standardization establishes test’s performance criteria (sample selection, optimal sample running conditions, preservation and storage), in order to ensure that the assay will perform the same way in any laboratory, by any trained personnel, anywhere in low-resource laboratory settings worldwide.

Effect of Trigonella Foenum against Ethylene Diamine Tetra Acetic Acid induced Nephrotoxicity in Male Albino Rats

Background Nephrotoxicity is a complication due to the effect of some toxic chemicals on kidney. Current study planned to screen the effect of Trigonella foenumaqueous seeds extracts on EDTA induced nephrotoxicity. Trigonella foenum known for its various medicinal properties is also a natural antioxidant and a free radical scavenger with no documented evidence as a nephron-protective agent. Objective To investigate the protective effects of aqueous seed extracts of Trigonella foenum. Material and Methods The present study was used 40 male albino rats (Rattus albinus) with weight of (150 ± 10) g with divided into four groups: control gp; EDTA gp (95 mg/kg); Trigonella foenum gp (500 mg/kg) and EDTA + Trigonella f oenum gp by gastric tube daily for 4 weeks. Blood urea, creatinine, GFR, creatinine clearance, MDA and GPx analyses and microscopic examination of kidney were performed. Results In the present study, Blood samples were taken from all groups and concentration of serum urea, creatinine, GFR, Creatinine clearance, MDA and GPx were determined. Histopathological observations were observed in kidney tissue. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA). EDTA induced an increase in urea and creatinine as well as there was a decrease in the concentration of GFR and creatinine clearance. The level of MDA was increase while the concentration of GPx was decrease in the serum of EDTA group. The aqueous extracts of Trigonella seeds significantly prevented renal damage by normalizing increased levels of renal markers. The correction of oxidative stress biomarkers was consistent with amelioration of the histopathological changes induced by EDTA. Hence, it is suggested that ameliorative effect of aqueous extract of Trigonella foenumagainst EDTA induced nephrotoxicity. Conclusion The present data suggest that aqueous extract of Trigonella foenum exhibits reno-protective effect in EDTA induced renal damage.

Assessment of Traffic Policemen Exposure To Benzene by Using Trans, Trans-Muconic Acid Biomarker in Ahvaz City, Iran

Benzene is known as an environmental and industrial pollutant. One way to check the amount of exposure to benzene is to measure its metabolites in the urine. Trans, Trans-Muconic Acid which is one of its metabolites is also as a biological indicator of exposure to benzene. In this study, the relationship between the amount of this biomarker and the environmental benzene concentration was investigated in two groups of policemen working outdoors in the traffic-congested areas and indoor in the same area. The results showed that the highest amount of benzene was in Salman Farsi Station at 4.44 ppm. At the same time, the biomarker measured in the urine showed 127.20 μg / L, which was the highest amount. In addition, the amount of benzene in the outdoor was approximately 3 times more than indoor and the amount of biomarker measured in outdoor employees was two times more than indoors ones. In general, wherever there was more benzene, the biomarker would also show a higher amount.

Use of Microfluidic Assays to Develop Reliable and Economic Nucleic Acid Application Technologies, Employing MicroRNAs for the Diagnostic Screening of Colon Cancer in Human Stool in Low-Resource Settings

Isolation methods that employ readily-available inexpensive supplies on the open market, which are reliable, as well as economical, such as nucleic acid amplification techniques (NAAT) based on microfluidic technology in low-resource research settings (LRRS) that meets the ASSURED guidelines are essential to develop a noninvasive diagnostic colon cancer screen in stool using micro(mi)RNA molecules. A combination of a microfluidic-based MiRNA stool test with a reliable rolling circle amplification/detection method applied to the quantification of miRNA molecules, result in an affordable sensitive and specific isothermal method for the noninvasive quantitative detection of miRNAs in LRRS. Scientists and engineers have become interested in miRNAs, and they have intensified their efforts to apply emerging simple detection tools to the important bioanalytical challenge of quantifying these small 18-26 nt long molecules. Some of the proposed approaches incorporate novel material, such as simple centrifuges and methods based on microfluidic technology, while others utilize the interesting biological properties of these molecules, such as forming branched RCA structures, allowing for the detection of these biomarker molecules at an attomolar "aM" concentration level, using low cost extraction and isothermal amplification methods in LRRS. We have been interested in studying colorectal cancer (CRC) because it is the 3rd most common malignancy worldwide, and stool can be obtained noninvasively from the patients. We have focused in this research on colon cancer (CC) because it is more common in the USA than rectal cancer (RC). The innovation of our approach lies in the exploratory use of an affordable, quantitative miRNA profiling in noninvasive stool samples in LRRS, whose extracted fragile total RNA is stabilized shortly after excretion from stool by commercially available kits, so it does not ever fragment, followed by quantitative standardized analytical tests that are neither labor intensive, nor require expensive instrumentation, in order to develop apanel of novel miRNA genes for the noninvasive diagnostic screening of early left and right sporadic colon cancers, more economically, and with higher sensitivity and specificity than any other colon cancer screening test currently available on the market. To show the clinical sensitivity and specificity of the proposed quantitative miRNA test using simple methodologies in LRRS,the miRNA results are to be correlated with FOBT, colonoscopy, and pathology data. Standardization establishes test’s performance criteria (sample selection, optimal sample running conditions, preservation and storage), in order to ensure that the assay will perform the same way in any laboratory, by any trained personnel, anywhere in low-resource laboratory settings worldwide.  

Formulation of Isohydricity Conditions in Acid-Base systems - A Review

The isohydricity conditions are formulated for D+T systems composed of titrand D and titrant T, mixed according to titrimetric mode; only acid-base equilibria are involved there. The original method of dissociation constants determination, based on the isohydricity principle, is presented and confirmed experimentally. The pH titrations in the system of isohydric solutions are also put in context with conductometric titrations.

RETRACTED: Amino Acid Imbalance in Atherosclerosis

This article has been retracted on 18 March 2021. VIEW THE RETRACTION NOTICE (https://doi.org/10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-25-5865) A mini-review of literature data on the mechanisms of formation of the stock of free amino acids and their derivatives in atherosclerosis and methods for correcting metabolic imbalance.

Retraction Note: Amino Acid Imbalance in Atherosclerosis

Amino Acids and their Derivatives in Pathogenesis and Treatment of Liver Diseases

A mini-review of literature data on the mechanisms of formation of the stock of free amino acids and their derivatives in liver pathology and methods for correcting metabolic imbalance

‘A perfect Example of the Strong Ion Difference: Hyperchloraemic Acidosis due to 0.9% Normal Saline Irrigation, in a Patient with a Ruptured Bladder’

An 81-year-old male presented to the Emergency Department with urinary retention, subsequent to passing blood clots. A three-way catheter was inserted for continuous bladder irrigation. 48 hours later he deteriorated, with worsening tachypnea and hypoxaemia. Clinical examination and chest x-ray suggested pulmonary odema, managed with intravenous furosemide, and non-invasive ventilation. His irrigation circuit-chart showed he had received 10 litres Normal Saline via the afferent limb, but only 3 litres recorded at the efferent limb. It was suspected the catheter was adjacent to a vascular-cystic interface, however an urgent contrast CT revealed the irrigating catheter perforating the bladder, being situated in the abdominal cavity (see 3 images). His arterial blood-gas analysis demonstrated the expected normal anion-gap academia, however his Strong Ion Difference calculations, sodium-chloride difference of 13 and a normal albumin level, perfectly demonstrated the expected calculated BE of -13. The catheter was withdrawn, and the patient made a full recovery.

Consciousness Energy Healing Treatment: Impact on the Physicochemical and Thermal Characteristics of Folic Acid

Folic acid is essential in the body for the production of DNA and also plays various vital functions within the body. This study on folic acid was done to analyze the results of the Trivedi Effect® on its physicochemical and thermal properties with the help of analytical techniques. The method involves dividing the test sample into two parts. The first part was termed as a control sample, and no treatment was given to it; while the second part received the Biofield Energy Treatment remotely by a renowned Biofield Energy Healer, Gopal Nayak and termed as the treated sample. The study revealed that the particle sizes reduced by 7.01% (d10), 6.53% (d50), 8.37% (d90), and 15.99% {D(4,3)}, thus increased the surface area by 1.72%, in the treated sample compared with the control sample. The PXRD data showed changes in the peak intensities and crystallite sizes ranging from -36.81% to 113.41% and -15.79% to 318%, respectively, thus increased in the average crystallite size by 22.55% of the treated sample compared with the control sample. The TGA analysis of the treated sample revealed a 3.94% increase in total weight loss that resulted in the remarkable reduction in the residual amount by 14.99%, in comparison to the untreated sample. The latent heat of fusion (ΔHfusion) and latent heat of decomposition (ΔHdegradation) were significantly altered by -10.33% and 10.46%, respectively in the treated sample compared to the untreated sample. The study denoted that the Biofield Energy Treatment is a novel approach that could be used to develop some polymorph of folic acid and that might improve its solubility, dissolution, and bioavailability in comparison to the control sample. Hence, the treated folic acid in the nutraceutical/pharmaceutical formulations might be useful concerning better drug performance and efficacy.

Hydrolysis of Cellulose by Soluble Clostridium Thermocellum and Acidothermus Cellulolyticus Cellulases

The goal of this work was to clone, express, characterize and assemble a set of soluble thermostablecellulases capable of significantly degrading cellulose. We successfully cloned, expressed, and purified eleven Clostridium thermocellum (Cthe) cellulases and eight Acidothermuscellulolyticus(Acel) cellulases. The performance of the nineteen enzymes was evaluated on crystalline (filter paper) and amorphous (PASC) cellulose. Hydrolysis products generated from these two substrates were converted to glucose using beta-glucosidase and the glucose formed was determined enzymatically. Ten of the eleven Cthe enzymes were highly active on amorphous cellulose. The individual enzymes all produced <10% reducing sugar equivalents from filter paper. Combinations of Cthe cellulases gave higher conversions, with the combination of CelE, CelI, CelG, and CelK converting 34% of the crystalline cellulose. All eight Acel cellulases showed endo-cellulase activity and were highly active on PASC. Only Acel_0615 produced more than 10% reducing sugar equivalents from filter paper, and a combination of six Acel cellulases produced 32% conversion. Acel_0617, a GH48 exo-cellulase, and Acel_0619, a GH12 endo-cellulase, synergistically stimulated cellulose degradation by the combination of Cthe cellulases to almost 80%. Addition of both Acel enzymes to the Cthe enzyme mix did not further stimulate hydrolysis. Cthe CelG and CelI stimulated cellulose degradation by the combination of Acel cellulases to 66%.

Template Independent Synthesis of Nucleic Acid Libraries

Though, directed evolution/In vitro evolution has greatly enhanced the applicability of natural biomolecules, there is still a big void in synthetic biology, which could be filled only when we are able to make novel/synthetic functional biomolecules. Terminal deoxyribonucleotidyl transferase (TdT) is the only known DNA polymerase, which can add deoxyribonucleotides without the requirement of a DNA template. Here, we are introducing the concept of Template-Independent Synthesis of Nucleic Acids (TISNA), where we have exploited the property of terminal deoxyribonucleotidyl transferase to add deoxyribonucleotides to the 3’ end of an oligonucleotide for the generation of de novo libraries of ssDNA, dsDNA coding sequences and RNA. We are able to generate libraries that have diversity not only in sequence but also in length in a single library itself. The length of double stranded random gene libraries generated using this approach ranges from 200 base pairs to 10 kilobase pairs. The ability to make random nucleic acid libraries from scratch (independent of any template information) in the laboratory could open up new avenues and holds promise for the pharmaceutical and biotechnological sectors.

Research Progress of the Functional Nucleic Acid Techniques in GMO Detection

Functional nucleic acids are a kind of nucleic acid sequences with special functions, which can specifically bind with the target substances or catalyze the reactions. Many target, including mycotoxins, small RNA, heavy metal ions and DNA segment, can bind to particular selected oligonucleotides, and then realized the detection. The uses of functional nucleic acids to detect the genetically modified organism (GMO) have been pursued using different approaches. Meanwhile, the flanking sequence, which was the most specific target in the GMO detection, was also usually separated with the help of functional nucleic acid. During the detection, the functional nucleic acid provided superior sensitivity, specificity and success rate compared with the traditional methods. In this report, we described different functional nucleic acids used in the GMO detection, they were classified based on their structures, and some of them were developed in our lab. The principle, structural composition, advantage, and the comparisons of the functional nucleic acids were reported. Considering most of the functional nucleic acids are fluorescently-labeled, in order to reduce the cost, more and more functional nucleic acids without labeling are under research.

Novel N-Pyrrolylcarboxylic Acid Derivative as a Potential New Analgesic and Anti-Inflammatory Drug

The objective of our study was to evaluate the analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity, as well as possible organ toxicity of 2-3-3-methyl-pentanoic acid (compound 3d), a newly synthesized pyrrolic derivative, structurally similar to Celecoxib. Antinociception was assessed using animal pain models with thermal and chemical stimuli (paw withdrawal, tail-flick and formalin test). Anti-inflammatory activity was measured using the carrageenan-induced paw edema model. Blood samples were collected from the animals to study possible organ toxicity. All experiments were performed on male Wistar rats. The results in our study show that in experimental conditions 2-3-3-methyl-pentanoic acid has analgesic action against thermal and chemical stimuli. This effect is registered after both single and multiple administration of the compound. In the carrageenan model after single administration compound 3d did not inhibit formation of paw edema. After multiple administration all doses of compound 3d significantly suppressed paw edema at second, third and fourth hours. Hematological tests showed that compound 3d did not affect red blood cells and platelets but decreased white blood cell levels and the highest used dose decreased hemoglobin as well. Compound 3d decreased blood sugar levels and liver transaminases, compared to the control. Compound 3d did not affect creatinine levels but the smallest dose used lowered blood urea. We concluded antinociception in the tested compound is most likely mediated by supraspinal, spinal and peripheral mechanisms. Possible tolerance develops towards the analgesic action on spinal level after continuous administration. Anti-inflammatory activity, though significant, is probably not the leading cause for antinociception.

Docosahexaenoic Acid Supplementation is Not Anti- Inflammatory in Adipose Tissue of Healthy Obese Postmenopausal Women

Adipose tissue inflammation is associated with obesity comorbidities. Reducing such inflammation may ameliorate these comorbidities. n-3 fatty acids have been reported to have anti-inflammatory properties in obesity, which may modulate this inflammatory state. In the current study a 1 gram per day oral supplement of the n-3 fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) was administered for 12 weeks to 10 grade 12 obese postmenopausal women and markers of adipose tissue and systemic inflammation measured and compared before and after supplementation. DHA administration resulted in approximately a doubling of plasma and red cell phospholipid and adipose tissue DHA content but no change in systemic markers of inflammation, such as circulating C-reactive protein (CRP) or interleukins (IL) 6, 8 and 10 (IL-6, IL-8, IL-10). DHA supplementation did not alter the adipose tissue marker of inflammation crown-like structure density nor did it affect any gene expression pathways, including anti-inflammatory, hypoxic and lipid metabolism pathways. The obese postmenopausal women studied were otherwise healthy, which leads us to suggest that in such women DHA supplementation is not an effective means for reducing adipose tissue or systemic inflammation. Further testing is warranted to determine if n-3 fatty acids may ameliorate inflammation in other, perhaps less healthy, populations of obese individuals.

Implementing High Energy Liquid Nutrition, Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Nutritional Supplements for the Treatment of Anorexia Nervosa

Objective: To assess the effect of different treatment approaches on the course of anorexia nervosa (AN) over time. Methods: The subjects were 27 hospitalized AN patients. In our retrospective analysis we compared weight gain in two groups. While one group was treated with a standard oral refeeding protocol (historical control) through January 2013 (N=16), the second group (highly standardized refeeding protocol) received a high energy liquid nutrition and nutritional supplements including omega-3 fatty acids (N=11). Results: On admission, the two groups were comparable in terms of height, weight, age and heart rate. At the end of our monitoring time frame of 25 days, weight gain was 121.4% higher in the highly standardized refeeding protocol group than in the historical control group (66.5 ±52.4 vs 147.3 ±55.7 grams/day; t-Test p=0.004; CI95%: 29.3-132.2). A carbohydrate rich diet clearly improved weight gain if high energy liquid nutrition was replaced by the diet according the patient’s own wishes. About 45% of our patients stated they were vegetarians at admission. However, we could not identify a vegetarian diet as a statistically significant negative prognostic factor for weight gain. Conclusion: The highly standardized refeeding protocol seems to be helpful in malnourished AN patients to improve weight gain without enhancing the risk of a refeeding syndrome. However, further studies with greater number of patients are needed to confirm the effectiveness of our standardized treatment protocol.

Lactic Acidosis : A Poorly Understood Concept

Lactic acidosis is a condition commonly encountered in the hospital setting particularly in critically ill patients and is very often used as a diagnostic adjunct when encountering cases of ischaemia or other hypoperfusion states. Despite its use many clinicians have long forgotten the biochemical mechanisms that give rise to hyperlactataemia. One reason for this is because the basic science regarding lactate metabolism is taught in the early years of the medical undergraduate course, and unless one specialises in metabolic medicine, is unlikely to encounter it again. In this article we aim to elucidate the basic mechanisms of lactate metabolism and the accompanying acidosis, and illustrate various clinical settings that give rise to this biochemical abnormality.

Metabolic Acidosis and Cardiovascular Disease in Patients on Peritoneal Dialysis

Backgroud: Metabolic acidosis, a common condition particularly in end stage renal disease patients, results in malnutrition and inflammation. In this study, we focused on the importance of metabolic acidosis on manifestations of cardiovascular disease in patients on peritoneal dialysis. Methods: We studied 20 patients on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD), 15 males and 5 females, on mean age 61.6 ±11.3 years old. Metabolic acidosis was determined by serum bicarbonate concentrations less than 22mmol/L, which were measured in gas machine. Dialysis adequacy was defined by total Kt/V/week for urea including peritoneal Kt/V for urea and residual GFR (ml/min/1.73m2). High sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) was measured using enzyme linked immunoabsorbed assay (ΕLISA). The concentrations of intact-parathormone (i-PTH) and beta2-microglobulin (beta2M) were measured by radioimmunoassays. Arterial stiffness was measured as carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (c-f PWV) and augmentation index (AIx). We built a Cox regression analysis to predict coronary artery disease (CAD), congestive heart failure (CHF) and peripheral vascular disease (PVD). Results: Serum bicarbonate levels were inversely associated to beta2M, i-PTH and AIx (r=-0.451, p=0.04, r=-0.477, p=0.03 and r=-0.569, p=0.009 respectively). Cox- regression analysis revealed significant association of serum bicarbonate levels and PVD having as confounders traditional and specific for these patients risk factors. Conclusion: Metabolic acidosis may be an independent risk factor for arterial stiffening and peripheral vascular disease manifestation in patients on peritoneal dialysis.

Physicochemical and Fatty Acids Composition of Barberry Integerrima Seed

In this study, chemical composition of Barberry integerrima seed and physicochemical properties and fatty acids composition of its oil were determined. The seeds contained 11.4 % oil and protein, moisture, crude fiber and ash contents were 17.0%, 19.1%, 48.8% and 2.9%, respectively. The main fatty acids recognized by gas chromatography were linolenic (ω-3), linoleic (ω-6) and oleic (ω-9) acid (38.3, 37.0, 15.5%, respectively). The density and refractive index of the extracted barberry seed oil were 0.821 and 1.4780, respectively. FFA (% as oleic acid), acid value (mg KOH/g oil), iodine value (g I2/100 g oil), saponification number (mg KOH/ g oil), and unsaponifiable matter content (%) of the extracted oil from Barberry integerrima seeds were 0.70, 1.4, 180.0, 197.2, and 2.3, respectively. Color of extracted crude oil exhibited red unit 4.9, yellow unit 18.6 and blue unit 1.9, respectively. Total phenolics compounds (mg Gallic acid/kg oil), total tocopherols (mg/kg oil) and total sterols (mg/100g oil), were 323.0, 111.1 and 762.3, respectively. Specific extinctions at 232 nm (K232) and 270 nm (K270) and R-value (K232/K270) were 3.9, 2.2 and 1.8, respectively. The present study revealed that Barberry integerrima seed oil can be a valuable source of oil for food, pharmaceutics and cosmetics uses.

Heart-Type Fatty Acid-Binding Protein Enables Rapid Risk Stratification in Patients with Pulmonary Embolism

Introduction: Elevated serum troponin levels are a reliable indicator of right ventricular wall stress in patients with acute pulmonary artery embolism (PE). Raised troponin levels have been shown to predict adverse clinical outcome in these individuals. In this context it was our aim to determine the additional role of the heart-type fatty acid-binding protein (H-FABP) in patients with acute PE. Methods: 87 consecutive patients with confirmed PE were included in the present study. On arrival a qualitative H-FABP-test (positive cut-off 7ng/ml) and a detailed echocardiographic study were performed in all patients. These findings were related to both in hospital and 30 days mortality. Results: Of the included 87 patients, 17 had positive H-FABP-tests. Right ventricular function was severely deteriorated in 10 patients (59%) in the H-FABP-positive group but only in 2 patients (3%) of the H-FABP-negative group (p<0.005). 15/17 patients (88%) of the H-FABP-positive group needed inotropic support, of these, 14 (82%) died in hospital. Only one patient with a H-FABP-negative test (n= 70) needed vasoactive drugs, and none of these patients died (p<0.005). Conclusion: H-FABP showed a better correlation with in-hospital mortality and RV-function than troponin I. Our data show that H-FABP significantly correlates with in hospital and 30-day mortality in patients with PE. Furthermore, it is associated with impaired right ventricular function and showed better correlation with mortality in patients with PE as compared to Troponin I. Thus, it may be viewed as a novel and promising tool to optimise the management strategy in these patients.

The Risk Factors, Complications, Management Strategies and Predictors of Morbidity & Mortality Among Pediatric Patients Presenting with Severe Diarrhea at Muhimbili National Hospital’s Emergency Medicine Department

Background Acute diarrhea is the major cause of health public problem among paediatric patients in Tanzania. And in Low income countries (LICs), studies have shown, Acute watery Diarrhea (AWD) is the cause of morbidity and mortality which can be prevented by immediate identification and treatment of complications. Methods A prospective cohort study was done between December 2021 and April 2022 to determine the risks, complications, management strategies and predictors of mortality among paediatric patients ≤12 years of age with severe diarrhea. We excluded those who arrived in cardiac arrest at the Emergency Medicine Department (EMD) of Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH). Proportion was used to summarize the counts and frequency of participants who were at risk of complications and management strategies given and for predictors of outcomes. A Modified Poisson log linear model with a robust estimation test was used to test for significant associations between predictors and outcomes. Multivariate logistic regression was used to adjust for confounders. Results A total 6,570 paediatric patients presented to EMD during study period, and we recruited 144 (2.2%). The median age was 1 (IQR 0.7-2.0) years and most were male 86 (59.7%). Among the study participants with diarrhea, 120 (83.3%) had dehydration, acidosis 60 (42.3%), hypoglycemia 8 (5.6%), hypokalemia 76 (53.1%), and Acute renal failure 11 (7.6%). Those patients with complications received appropriate management, including IV crystalloid solution given to 131 (90.97%), and correction of acidosis 60 (42.3%), hypoglycemia correction with IV dextrose 10% 6 (4.2%), and hypokalemia and infections were corrected with IV potassium chloride 52 (36.1%) and IV antibiotic treatment 84 (58.3%) respectively. Conclusion Pediatric patients under 2 years of age are at high risk of severe diarrhea with dehydration as compared to other ages. Early referral and availability of point care tests are essential in early recognition of accompanied complications.

Correlation of Fast Food Consumption and Overweight/Obesity among Undergraduate Students at the University of Hargeisa in Hargeisa, Somaliland

Background Fast food consumption is the major cause of obesity and overweight in worldwide affecting more than 2 billion people, especially developing countries and low income countries. It can lead to hyperinsulinemia and development of insulin resistance, high energy density, high glycemic index, and fatty acid composition of fast foods may increase the prevalence of obesity and cardiovascular risk factors Objectives The main aim of this study was, to assess fast food consumption and its association with overweight /obesity among undergraduate students of University Hargeisa, Somaliland, 2023. Methods The study was carried out from May 01 to July 20, 2023 at University of Hargeisa using an institutional based cross-sectional study design to among 260 students. The study participants were selected using a simple random sampling technique. A structured questionnaire was prepared based on review literatures and dig out from related studies. The anthropometric data was taken by data collectors to measure weight and height using a stadiometer. Data was entered and checked for errors using EPI-info version 7.1.5.0 and then, data were exported to statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) software version 21 and STATA software version 14 for data processing and analysis. Descriptive statistics such as; frequencies, means and proportion was used for present the findings. A variable with P-values of less than 0.25 in the binary logistic regression analysis was entered into a multivariable logistic regression analysis to identify the independent predictors of stunting. Finally, variable at P-value less than 0.05 in multivariable logistic regression analysis was considered as a statistically significant variable. Results In this study, the majority 235 (90.4%, CI: 86.5- 93.8) of the study participants were fast food consumers. The study revealed that, from the total study participants 46(17.7%),127(48.8%),84(32.3%), 3(1.2%) were underweight, normal, overweight and obese respectively. A chi-square test revealed that there was a significant (p-value=0.058) associations between BMI and fast food consumption among students of University of Hargeisa. On multi-variable logistic regression model educational level of the students (AOR = 12.45 (95% CI: 1.7, 14.6)) and frequency of fruit (AOR = 0.76, 95% CI (0.7, 0.8)) and vegetable consumptions (AOR = 0.51, 95% CI (0.47, 0.575)) were found to be significantly associated with fast food consumptions (p < 0.05). Conclusion In this study, of the total 90.4% number of fast food consumers. A chi-square test revealed that there was a significant (p-value=0.058) associations between BMI and fast food consumption among students of University of Hargeisa. Educational level of the students and frequency of fruit and vegetable consumptions were found to be significantly associated with fast food consumptions. Effort should be made to increase access to fast food-related information and counseling.

Insect-Based Foods: A Comprehensive Review on Nutritional Benefits and Environmental Sustainability

The growing population demands and environmental concerns associated with traditional protein sources have prompted the exploration of alternative and sustainable food sources. The purpose of this comprehensive review is to highlight the nutritional benefits and sustainability of insect-based foods as a promising solution. Global population growth necessitates innovative approaches to meet the demand for nutritious and sustainable protein sources. There are numerous challenges associated with traditional livestock farming, including land use inefficiency, high water usage, and greenhouse gas emissions. As a result, edible insects have emerged as a viable alternative, providing proteins (35-77% of dry matter), healthy fats (10-50%), essential amino acids, and micronutrients such as iron (up to 31mg/100g) and zinc (up to 20mg/100g), vitamins, and minerals. In contrast to livestock, which requires 22,000-43,000 liters of water to produce 1 kg of beef, insect farming consumes significantly less water and land resources. Insects have the potential to address nutritional deficiencies and strengthen food security as they are recognized for sustainable production. The study thoroughly investigates the literature addressing environmental and sustainability concerns associated with edible insect farming, using a rigorous bibliometric and scientometric analysis via Vos viewer. With the help of Vos Viewer, it was possible to identify the geographical distribution of countries that contributed to the field of edible insects and their acceptance, as well as the top ten documents in this field with the most citations and mostly used keywords in this field of research. Future research and implementation strategies will be able to benefit global food security and environmental conservation through these alternative protein sources.

Effectiveness of The Luo Yuan Technique in Patients with Hyperuricemia, Case Report

Significance This case report describes the alternative management of hyperuricemia through acupuncture using the Luo Yuan technique. Case presentation A 53-year-old Mexican man was diagnosed with secondary hyperuricemia. The patient began to experience arthralgia in the metatarsophalangeal joint of the first toe on his left foot after consuming a high amount of purine-rich foods, with a 10-year history. The symptoms were sporadically controlled with the use of colchicine and indarzone. In a six-element blood chemistry test, serum uric acid was 8.7 mg/dL before acupuncture treatment and 8.3 mg/dL at the end of treatment, without applying dietary restrictions on purine consumption. Conclusions and relevance This report demonstrates the potential efficacy of acupuncture at the Luo and Yuan points of the Spleen and Stomach meridians in reducing elevated blood uric acid levels. This suggests its potential as an alternative treatment for patients with hyperuricemia and other metabolic disorders.

Synthesis of N-Glycosyl Amides via Hydrolysis of Protected Glycosyl Oxazolines and Ritter-like Reactions of Native Carbohydrates

A stereoselective synthesis of N-glycosyl amides was studied from available N-glycosyl oxazolines prepared by Ritter-like reactions of protected sugar acetonides. Hydrolysis reactions of the protected pentofuranosyl and hexafuranosyl oxazolines, as precursors of glycosyl amine derivatives, were carried out in the presence of silica gel in chloroform to giveN-α- and β-glycosyl amides in good yields after column chromatography on silica gel. Access to selectively blocked N-α-xylo-, -ribo-, β-arabino-furanosyl, α-glyco-, α-allo-furanosyl, α- and β-galactopyranosyl amides (twelve examples) useful for preparing modified N-glycosides was accomplished through a mild hydrolysis of sugar oxazolines with 2-alkyl substituents in acidic and neutral conditions. To further explore the scope of the BF3.Et2O-mediated approachdeveloped for N-furanosyl oxazolines, a stereoselective synthesis of protected N-α-hexopyranosyl oxazoline was fulfilled in a high yield from d-galactopyranose diacetonide derivative. The Ritter-like promoted reaction between D-arabinose and benzonitrile afforded 2-phenyl-β-d-arabinofurano-(1,2-d)-2-oxazoline as the main product. In acetonitrile the BF3.Et2O-KHF2-assisted reactions of unprotected native sugars were found to result in the formation of mixtures of N-furanosyl and pyranosyl acetamides.

Protection Side Chain of Lysine by Host-Affinity Molecules during Solid Phase Peptide Synthesis in Aqueous Phase

A new approach to protecting the side chain of lysine during solid-phase peptide synthesis in an aqueous environment is explored. The objectives of this study are twofold: 1) to reduce the consumption of chemical solvents in peptide synthesis, and 2) to lower the costs associated with lysine side chain protection. In an effort to minimize the usage of organic solvents in amino acid side chain protection for peptide synthesis,18-crown-6 molecule (18C6) was introduced as protective agent for Lysine (Lys) side chain protection. 18C6 is utilized to protect ε-amino group of on side chain of Lys in peptide synthesis. 18C6 features cavity at its center. The 18C6 molecules exhibit a unique and distinctive host-guest affinity towards ε-amino group on side chain of Lys. 18C6 bind to Lys side chain through hydrogen bonds with ε-amino group of Lys, eliminating the need for chemical reactions in organic solvents to attach protective molecules to the side chain groups. This simplifies the side chain protection procedure significantly for Lys, reducing the consumption of organic solvents. Consequently, this procedure offers advantages for contributing to a greener planet by minimizing chemical reactions and organic solvent usage. Additionally, the cost of side chain protection of Lys is dramatically reduced.

Peptide Synthesis in Aqueous Solution With a Reusable Solid Phase

A procedure has been developed for synthesizing peptides in an aqueous solution with a reusable solid phase. Specifically designed linker molecule is employed to attach peptides to hydrophilic solid phases, enabling Solid Phase Peptide Synthesis (SPPS) in aqueous solutions. The linker molecule is utilized to connect peptides to an anionic exchange resin during peptide synthesis in an aqueous solution. The general structure of the linker molecule is Fmoc-AA-CH2-Ph-Rx-SO3-, the Fmoc (9-fluorenylmethoxycarbonyl) group serves as a protecting group for amino acids. Amino acids (AA) are linked to the solid phase through a structure of Methoxyphenylcarbonyl group, which is cleavable under strong acidic conditions. The sulfate group is present for forming an ionic bond with the solid resin in an aqueous solution. In this procedure, Fmoc-AA are utilized as building blocks for sequentially adding amino acids in peptide synthesis. Due to Fmoc-AA poor solubility in aqueous solutions, a procedure was developed to enhance the solubility of hydrophobic compounds, with a specific emphasis on dissolving Fmoc-protected Amino Acids (Fmoc-AA) in an aqueous solution. This enhancement facilitates SPPS in aqueous conditions with Fmoc-AA as building blocks. Cationic exchange resin, which is reusable, serves as the solid phase. Our research objective is to shift from the use of organic solvents to an aqueous system while maintaining the existing SPPS practices in organic solvents as closely as possible. This transition involves minimal alterations, maintaining consistency with the organic solvent system, except for the utilization of novel peptide linker molecule to hydrophilic solid resins that are commercially available. This approach is designed to facilitate a more readily acceptable transition for the peptide synthesis industry from using organic solvents to aqueous solution, contributing to greener and more sustainable synthetic methodologies.

Rbm45 Phylogenetics, Protein Domain Conservation, and Gene Architecture in Clade Metazoa

Mammalian Rbm45 is predominately expressed in neuronal tissue and is integral in brain development and neuronal differentiation under physiological conditions. Dysregulation of Rbm45 has been strongly associated with neurodegenerative disorders in humans and can drive hepatocellular carcinoma through reprogramming lipid metabolism. Intriguingly, Rbm45 is an ancient protein, evolutionarily conserved throughout metazoans, including in sponges which lack a nervous system. Curiously, the evolution of Rbm45 gene structure and protein domain conservation across kingdom Animalia is largely unknown. We performed phylogenetic analysis of Rbm45 nucleotide and amino acid sequences from 36 species representing 9 phyla: Porifera, Cnidaria, Priapulida, Mollusca, Brachiopoda, Arthropoda, Echinodermata, Hemichordata, and Chordata. While the tree from Rbm45 nucleotide sequence data resulted in clades Protostomia and Deuterostomia showing paraphyly, the phylogeny derived from Rbm45 amino acid sequence largely recapitulated known monophyletic relationships among metazoans. Human RBM45 protein structure includes three RNA-binding domains (RBD), a homo-oligomerization association (HOA) domain, a nuclear localization sequence (NLS), and a nuclear export sequence (NES). Multiple sequence alignment across the same 36 taxa used for phylogenetic analysis revealed conservation of all three RBDs, the HOA, and NLS; in contrast the NES was only detected in clade Craniata and not in clades Ambulacraria and Protostomia. Rbm45 gene structure analysis revealed increasing gene complexity concomitant with increasing evolutionary complexity. Rbm45 from non-bilaterian taxa had from 2 to 4 large exons, while bilaterian taxa had between 6 to17 small exons. These findings demonstrate that Rbm45 is an ancient, highly conserved gene among metazoans suggesting a function in a breadth of neural/sensory systems.

Scrutinizing Local Probiotic Supplements and Drinks Available in the Bangladesh Market

The host's health may benefit from the probiotic microorganisms found in many products available on the market. In addition to food, these products include dietary supplements, food for special medical purposes, medicines, cosmetics, and medical devices. These products have anywhere from one to a dozen strains of bacteria from the same or different species, and sometimes they also have strains of fungi. Since the health benefits of probiotics depend on the strain, the number of cells in a dose, and the absence of pathogenic microorganisms, it is crucial to regulate the quality of probiotics. Depending on how a product is classified, how it looks, and how many microorganisms it has, it is very important to count and identify the microorganisms correctly. We investigated nine probiotic products in this study: five commercially available probiotic supplements and four probiotic drinks. The majority of commercial products did not contain all of the labeled lactic acid bacteria, nor did they contain any possibly harmful microorganisms. To ensure that consumers in Bangladesh obtain good products, probiotic-containing product rules and regulations should be developed. Furthermore, it should be the duty of probiotics-containing product manufacturers to provide consumers with information that is accurate, reliable, and compliant with legal and scientific requirements

A Review of Attempts to Identification and Antifungal Susceptibility of Dermatophytes (Microsporum Canis and Tricophyton Mentagrophytes) Isolated from Infected Cats and Dogs with Experimental Dermatophytosis of Guinea Pigs

Dermatophytosis affect companion animal’s skin and keratin appendages as cats and dogs, resulting in red, scaly, itchy, bald, and raised patches like ring. The three main groups are Microsporum, Trichophyton and Epidermophyton. This study collected samples of skin scrapping and hairs from 130 cats and 70 dogs, using common mycological approach samples were examined. Antifungal agar disc diffusion and broth microdilution assays were utilized on some of the isolates. Three groups of Guinea pigs (6 in each) were then infected with one isolate of M. canis or T. mentagrophytes fungi, another skin scrapping samples of virulent fungi was isolated on the 7th and 14th days, blood samples were collected at 14th day. Reverse transcription-PCR to detect 98 bp protease gene. Resulting in 45% of cats and dogs tested positive for Microsporum and Trichophyton species. Agar disc diffusion revealed that the antifungal medication griseofulvin was the most effective against tested isolates. The best results for MIC test were griseofulvin (0.98 µg/ml) followed by acetic acid (0.28 µg/ml). Differential leukocytic count of Guinea pigs showed that monocyte levels remained unchanged, while neutrophil and lymphocyte levels had increased. The active (isolates from Guinea pigs skin scrapping) and dormant cells (isolates from keratin free media) were distinguished by Reverse Transcriptase-PCR. Collectively, qPCR is a successive and feasible method for the diagnosis for Microsporum and Trichophyton species.

The Impact of EDTA And Selenite on The Stability of Insulin in Cell Culture Media

Insulin is a frequent peptide hormone addition in serum-free mammalian cell culture media. It contributes in a variety of biological functions, including as promoting cell proliferation, cell cycle progression, and glucose uptake. However, it is unknown how stable insulin is under in vitro cell culture media treatment conditions. The instability of insulin in aqueous solutions has caused a number of issues, necessitating the development of new therapeutic strategies that can keep insulin stable and functioning. Such choices are required to accommodate updated insulin delivery guidelines as well as the storage and transportation of insulin. To preserve structural and functional integrity, protein medicines are frequently stabilized with antioxidants in aqueous solutions. In the present study, the effects of the antioxidants disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid dihydrate (EDTA) and sodium selenite (Se) and their ability to scavenge free radicals on insulin stability in the medium Dulbecco's Modified Eagle Medium (DMEM) and Roswell Park Memorial Institute (RPMI) were examined. To investigate the stability of human recombinant insulin, in vitro serum-free DMEM and RPMI media were utilized for 5 days at 37˚C containing different EDTA and Se concentrations. Reversed phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) was used to detect and quantify insulin. Sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel (SDS-PAGE) electrophoresis was used to assess conformational stability. The results demonstrated that, when EDTA and Se were added separately to DMEM and RPMI media, insulin stability was improved compared to when neither compound was added.

Baroreflex Sensitivity, Cardiac and Kidney Remodeling and Deterioration in Vasoactive Substances Content in Blood in Experimental Model of Renovascular Hypertension. Action of Natural Flavone, Luteolin

This study aimed to analyze pharmacological actions of phenolic compound luteolin on the renal and cardiac hypertrophy, blood pressure (BP), baroreflex sensitivity (BRS), levels of epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs), prostaglandin E-2 (PGE-2) and endothelin-1 (E1) in plasma in the 2 kidney - 1 clip (2K-1C) model of renovascular hypertension (RVH). All animals, were randomized into 2 groups: control (normal) I - sham-operated, II- RVH male Wistar rats, which after 4 weeks of surgical intervention secondly randomized to control II group, treated 0.1% dimethyl sulphoxide (DMSO) and main group - with luteolin in 15 DMSO, 3 mg/kg body weight, intraperitonially, during 2 weeks. ET-1, EETs and PGE2 levels investigated in carotid artery blood plasma and analyzed using ELISA kits. All data statistically analyzed using the SPSS-10.0 program. In RVH rats BP increased by 32%, cardiac and right kidney hypertrophy and reduction in parasympathetic component of BRS by 40% and sympathetic by 39%. The plasma level of total trans-EETs and PGE2 in RVH rats decreased by 44% and 50% respectively, while the level of ET-1 increased by 67%. Two weeks treatment with luteolin lowered BP, improved parasympathetic, without marked changes in sympathetic component of BRS. Deremodeling of cardiac and renal hypertrophy under prolonged treatment with luteolin accompanied with increasing in the level of EETs by 44%, PGE-2 by 50% and markedly reducing of plasma content of ET-1 (by 60%). Inhibition of EET hydrolase using low doses of luteolin provides beneficial cardio and renoprotective action in experimental model of RVH.

Spontaneous Subgaleal Hemorrhage in a Child with Autism

Severe ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) deficiency, commonly known as “scurvy,” continues to be a problem in malnourished populations across the world but is relatively rare in the United States. Early features of this condition include general weakness, fatigue, and aching limbs. An extremely rare and late feature of this condition is subgaleal hemorrhage. Scurvy has such a low prevalence in First World countries that it is often misdiagnosed or not diagnosed at all. The subject in this case report presented acutely and is one of few to involve a subgaleal hemorrhage to be documented in medical literature to date. Laboratory studies and clinical improvement through treatment established the diagnosis. Ascorbic acid deficiency should be considered when evaluating children with poor nutrition despite socioeconomic status, living conditions, or access to health care. This case also reminds us that neurodivergent children are a vulnerable population and more research will need to be conducted to determine just how detrimental the pandemic has been to patients with ongoing problems who were lost to follow up.

Production of dried tomato powder with a high concentration of functional components and nutrients

The use of conventional drying methods for dehydrating vegetables and fruits with high sugar, amino acid, and moisture content is not feasible. Under extreme conditions, drying reduces the amount of functional ingredients present in these vegetables and fruits. Recently, there has been an increasing demand for powdered tomatoes because of their nutritional and functional components. This study aimed to evaluate tomato drying under normal pressure and low-temperature conditions, to efficiently reduce water content without compromising on product quality. A convection dryer, most widely used in food factories, was used in this study. This equipment uses a low temperature zone not normally used for drying, and processes the raw material to increase the drying area for rapid drying. The proposed method was validated by comparing the moisture and functional component contents, and the antioxidant activity of the dried product with those of the dried product obtained via freeze-drying. The results suggest that the proposed low-temperature drying method can produce functional dried food at food processing sites faster than using freeze-drying, with a residual rate of functional ingredients exceeding 90 %. Thus, low-temperature drying can be used as a simple and cost-effective method for the production of uniform dry tomato powder.

Correlating 13C Isotope in Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins with their Anticancer Properties

Upon considering the anticancer effects of larger oligomeric proanthocyanidins and observing various papers reporting the high resolution mass spectroscopy of the oligomeric proanthocyanidins, it is determined that the unusual 13C enrichment in some plant oligomeric proanthocyanidins may be responsible for the anticancer activities of these food products. Such correlation of the 13C in the oligomeric proanthocyanidins also correlate with their scavenging of free-radicals, anti-virial and anti-bacterial properties. Proanthocyanidins in grape seeds are observed to have high enrichment in heavy isotopes of 2H, 13C, 15N and/or 17O. Mass analysis of DNA from human cancer cells are compared to normal human cells and cancer cells show bond specific enrichment of heavy isotopes in nucleotides G, A, T and C. On such basis, this study suggests possible stronger interactions of proanthocyanidins with DNA in cancer verses DNA in normal cells due to heavy isotope bond specific enrichments in both proanthocyanidins and the cancer DNA. Such 13C interactions from oligomeric proanthocyanidins with nucleic acids and proteins involved in replications, transcriptions and translations in cancer cells for interacting and chemically altering anabolism and cell division of the cancer cells are consistent with the author’s mechanism for normal cell to cancer cell transformations via possible replacements of primordial 1H, 12C, 14N, 16O, and 24Mg isotopes by nonprimordial 2H, 13C, 15N, and 17O and 25Mg isotopes in the proteins and nucleic acids. Such is also consistent with the proposed treatment for cancer by the author by use of foods containing proteins, nucleic acids, carbohydrates and/or drug molecules enriched with the nonprimordial isotopes of 2H, 13C, 15N, and 17O and 25Mg.

Evaluation of A Nutrition Feeding Algorithm for Children and Adolescents Undergoing Haematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (HSCT)

Background Nutrition support during the acute phase post allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is required to optimise short- and long-term outcomes for children. An algorithm was developed and evaluated to assist clinicians to make objective and consistent enteral feeding decisions. Methods The algorithm was evaluated on all patients who underwent allogeneic HSCT treatment between November 2017 - February 2019. Results Of the 48 patients, 43 had a nasogastric tube (NGT) inserted, of which 36 patients received a hydrolysed peptide-based formula, 5 patients received a whole protein formula only and 2 patients were fed an amino acid-based formula. Parenteral nutrition (PN) was used in 41 of the patients. Eleven did not have an NGT in-situ at the commencement of HSCT. Of the remaining 37 patients, 26 followed the algorithm and 11 patients did not comply. The group of patients who did not follow the algorithm had the longest median length of stay (LOS) of 49 days. Patients receiving only EN had the lowest median LOS of 30 days. The two groups that reported better weight outcomes were those who followed the algorithm and those who were fully EN fed. Conclusions Effective use of the HSCT feeding algorithm indicated improved patient outcomes for children undergoing HSCT, with better weight outcomes and reduced LOS. Recommendations to improve the efficacy and compliance of the algorithm include regular education/input to the oncology medical teams to better understand objective thresholds for EN and PN commencement.

Effect of Solvent pH on Antioxidant and Phytochemical Activities of Mulhatti Aerial Parts (Glycyrrhiza glabra L.)

Medicinal plants have been used since the era of Vedic history for their health care system where herbal medicine has a long history of use. It is also a very popular medicinal plant belonging to the Leguminosae family and is commonly known as Mulhatti. It contains phytochemicals such as flavonoids, triterpene saponins and other constituents such as coumarins, sugars, amino acids, tannins, starch, choline, phytosterols etc. The present study was conducted for the estimation of phytochemicals (total phenols and flavonoids) and the evaluation of the total antioxidant capacity and DPPH free-radical scavenging activity in aqueous extracts of different pH (2, 4, 7 and 9) from aerial parts of Glycyrrhiza glabra L. The content of phenolic compounds was maximal at pH 7 (14.13 mg GAE/g) and flavonoids at pH 9 (4.90 mg CE/g) and the total antioxidant capacity was maximal at pH 9 (13.43 mg AAE/g) and free radical scavenging DPPH activity was highest at pH 7 (IC50 value = 60.48 µg/ml). Thus, the aerial part is a good source of phytochemicals and also acts as a good antioxidant.

Vitamin B12 Deficiency in Children Due to Lack of Intake: A Report of Two Cases at the Pediatric Department at Aristide Le Dantec Hospital

We report 2 cases of vitamin B12 deficiency in children due to deficient intake. These were 2 girls aged 4 years (case 1) and 6 years (case 2), respectively, hospitalized in December 2020 and March 2021 in the pediatric ward of Le Dantec hospital. Both patients presented with aregenative anemia, melanoderma and undernutrition. The bone marrow count in case 1 showed a dysmyelopoiesis with megablastosis. The blood vitamin B12 level was low in both cases. Folic acid blood levels were normal in both patients, but an associated martial deficiency was found in case 2. The dietary survey revealed a lack of intake of animal products rich in vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 replacement therapy was effective with rapid regression of all clinical signs observed in both children. The control of the vitamin B12 level after 1 month of treatment was normal in both patients. The disappearance of the symptoms under substitute treatment confirmed the deficiency of Vitamin B12 intake in both patients. Conclusion: Both of our patients had a profound Vitamin B12 deficiency in a context of deficiency in nutrition. The regression of the symptoms was spectacular under vitamin B12 replacement therapy, confirming the deficiency. We recommend in our context a contribution in micronutrients such as vitamins in children after weaning to avoid dietary errors.

Six Fractal Codes of Biological Life Unifying ATOMS, WAVES and INFORMATION: Perspectives in Exobiology, Cancers Basic Research and Artificial Intelligence Biomimetism Decisions Making

In this theoretical discovery of a law of Life, there is MATHEMATICS (Geometry, Bits and Numbers) that UNIFY 3 universes as complementary as ATOMIC MASS, WAVES, and INFORMATION (DNA, RNA and Amino Acids). The discovery of a simple numerical formula for the projection of all the atomic mass of life-sustaining CONHSP bioatoms leads to the emergence of a set of Nested CODES unifying all the biological, genetic and genomic components by unifying them from bioatoms up to 'to whole genomes. In particular, we demonstrate the existence of a digital meta-code common to the three languages ​​of biology that are RNA, DNA and amino acid sequences. Through this meta-code, genomic and proteomic images appear almost analogous and correlated. The analysis of the textures of these images then reveals a binary code as well as an undulatory code whose analysis on the human genome makes it possible to predict the alternating bands constituting the cariotypes of the chromosomes. The application of these codes to perspectives in astrobiology, cancer, and specifically in INFORMATION THEORY with the emergence of binary codes and regions of local stability (voting process), whose fractal nature we demonstrate, is illustrated. PREFACE by Professor Luc Montagnier Addendum by Robert Friedman M.D After the discovery of the DNA double helix structure allowing both the stable storage of genetic information and its transfer through messenger RNA to protein synthesis organelles themselves structured by RNA most abundant in cells, the ribosomal. This wonder of nature exists in ALL living beings from the virus to humans and is based on two codes, the linear sequence of nucleotides and that derived from codons where three nucleotides allow with a certain flexibility - synonymous codons - the choice in the twenty amino acids. But we are missing a third CODE the one governing at multicellular beings from the rotifer to human, the stabilized modulation of gene expression in a nutshell the differentiation of cells from the single cell of the fertilized egg. It is logical to think that this program which begins as soon as fertilization is written in the DNA. We are also prone to associate it with non-coding DNA sequences although they control gene expression. I introduce here the notion developed by Jean-Claude Pérez of mathematical harmony, a higher order present in all living beings and whose existence it finds in genomes, including those of viruses. Thus the natural evolution of variants of the genome of coronavirus Covid 19 tends towards increasingly long Fibonacci series. It remains to determine the Who, the How and the Why of such developments. I will bet with my mathematician colleague that waves and fractals play a role. Luc Montagnier ADDENDUM Jean-claude has given scientists a strong new direction for research. He has identified a unified field of science guided by the Golden Ratio and Fibonacci Sequence. By identifying an overall guiding principle that makes possible fractal-like nesting at all levels of biological manifestation, future researchers can begin with the "whole" instead of the "parts". If we know that complex systems are organized at varying levels by the Golden Ratio and Fibonacci Sequence, we can look for those universal patterns first and then fill in the gaps with small details to complete the picture. It's like having an overall view of a crossword puzzle before beginning to assemble the individual pieces. Without an overarching vision and guiding principle, completing the puzzle is infinitely more difficult. Once scientists and researchers realize and begin using this "SECRET IN HIDDEN IN PLAIN SIGHT," their discoveries will be orders of magnitude more fruitful.  Robert Friedman M.D

Antioxidant Activity of Pod Coat Extracts of Pigeon Pea (Cajanus Cajan L.) and Their Efficacy in Stabilization of Soybean Oil

When lipids are exposed to heat, light and oxygen, it leads to oxidation. The addition of antioxidants is required to preserve colour, flavour and vitamin destruction. Present study was, therefore, planned to investigate pod coat of pigeon pea as possible sources of natural antioxidants and to assess their efficacy in stabilization of crude soybean oil during normal storage (28 days at 50°C). Study revealed that acetone pod coat extract of pigeon pea showed richness in total phenolics (17.72 mg/g), flavonoids (9.00 mg/g) and tannins (2.21 mg/g) while the extract of ethyl acetate was found enriched in tocopherols content (9.56 mg/g). The IC50 value of acetone extract was found to be lowest, exhibited potent antioxidant activity in the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric thiocyanate (FTC) methods. After adding synthetic and natural antioxidants in oil, Peroxide, p-Anisidine, Thiobarbituric acid value, Conjugated dienes, trienes and free fatty acids content were measured every 4 days. Acetone pod coat extract (2000ppm) of pigeon pea gave strong antioxidant efficacy in stabilization of crude soybean oil and hence could be recommended as natural antioxidants for food applications.The research explored the possibility of using pod coat of pigeon pea as imminent sources of green antioxidants and to evaluate their efficacy in stabilization of crude soybean oil.

Colored Anti-Hail Nets Modify the Ripening Parameters of Nebbiolo and a Smart NIRS can Predict the Polyphenol Features

In the cultivation of vines the risk of hail appears to be increasing with the ongoing climate change. The use of protective plastic nets is spreading, but there is little knowledge on the additional processing costs and on the phenological and qualitative consequences, moreover, as depending on different colors of the nets. Thus, a randomized trial was carried out in Nebbiolo, a wine of great aging, testing three plastic anti-hail nets colored in green, gray and black. Results showed that 24% more-time was necessary for the canopy management practices under the nets. The black nets advanced the ripening process, with a berry weight decrease of about 13%. A significant decrease in the seed number per berry was observed under the black nets (-45%), while a rise (+102%) was observed under the green and gray nets with a parallel increase in the pH of the juice (+13%) and in malic acid (+28%) under the green nets. The berry skin did not show any significant differences in polyphenol and anthocyanin profiles, while the plants that matured in the upper part of the vineyard showed higher level in the berry skin extractable flavan-reactive to vanillin, and total polyphenol. On the other hand, in the seeds grown under green nets an increase in the extractable polyphenol compounds was observed, sign of a delay in seed ripening, with a higher tannin polymerization ratio, preserving the malic acid, and decreasing the acidity of the berry. In conclusion, the use of colored green may be a useful tool against excessive microclimatic warming and / or irradiation. The field internal variability affects much more the ripening dynamics than the nets used. A second aim was to develop a smart NIR SCiOTM model for polyphenols and the results were in line with the favorable expectations, providing R2 predictions of about 0.74 from the skin and 0.81 from the seeds.

Evaluation of Inflammatory Serum Cytokines after Treatment with the Consciousness Energy Healing Based Proprietary Test Formulation on Combination of Cecal Slurry, LPS and E. Coli Induced Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (SIRS) in Sprague Dawley Rats

Sepsis is a systemic inflammatory response to a confirmed or suspected infection. The transition from sepsis to septic shock causes high rate of mortality. The aim of this experiment was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory potential of the Biofield Energy Treated (Blessed) Proprietary Test Formulation and Biofield Energy Healing (Blessing) Treatment per se to Sprague Dawley rats on Cecal Slurry, LPS, and E. coli-induced systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) model. In this experiment, various proinflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, 1L-17, and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) were analysed using ELISA. A test formulation was formulated including minerals (magnesium, zinc, calcium, selenium, and iron), vitamins (ascorbic acid, pyridoxine HCl, vitamin E, cyanocobalamin, and cholecalciferol), Panax ginseng extract, β-carotene, and cannabidiol isolate. The constituents of the test formulation were divided into two parts; one section was defined as the untreated test formulation, while the other portion of the test formulation and three group of animals received Biofield Energy Healing Treatment remotely for about 3 minutes by a renowned Biofield Energy Healer Mr. Mahendra Kumar Trivedi. The level of TNF-α was significantly reduced by 40.50%, 85.36% (p≤0.01), 50.66% (p≤0.01), 87.38% (p≤0.01), and 58.63% (p≤0.01) in G5 (Cecal Slurry, LPS, and E. coli + Biofield Energy Treated test formulation), G6 (Cecal Slurry, LPS, and E. coli + Biofield Energy Treatment per se to animals from day -15), G7 (Cecal Slurry, LPS, and E. coli + Biofield Energy Treated test formulation from day -15), G8 (Cecal Slurry, LPS, and E. coli + Biofield Energy Treatment per se + Biofield Energy Treated test formulation from day -15), and G9 (Cecal Slurry, LPS, and E. coli + Biofield Energy Treatment per se animals + untreated test formulation) groups, respectively as compared to the disease control (G2) group. Additionally, the level of IL-1β was decreased by 17.04%, 15.56%, and 12.59% in G6, G8, and G9 groups, respectively as compared to the untreated test formulation (G4) group. The level of IL-6 was significantly (p≤0.001) reduced by 36.18%, 50.24%, 43.25%, 52.69%, and 38.23% in the G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively as compared to the G2 group. The level of IL-10 was altered by 70.53%, 49.25%, 60.18%, 41.54%, and 58.89% in G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively as compared to the G2 group. Moreover, the level of IL-12 was decreased by 30.24%, 31.67%, 29.82%, 45.77%, and 50.54% in the G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively as compared to the G2. The level of IL-17 was reduced by 48.75%, 59.61%, 59.28%, 62.49%, and 58.65% in the G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively as compared to the G2. IFN-γ expression was reduced by 49.56%, 24.09%, 23.7%, 56.98%, and 44.94% in G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively than G2. Overall, the data suggested anti-inflammatory potentials of the Biofield Energy Treated test formulation and Biofield Energy Treatment per se along with preventive measure on the animal with respect to various inflammatory conditions that might be beneficial various types of systemic inflammatory disorders specially sepsis, trauma, septic shock or any types of injuries. Therefore, the results showed the significant slowdown the inflammation-related disease progression and its complications in preventive treatment groups viz. G6, G7, G8, and G9.

Evaluation of Cardiac Performance after Treatment with the Biofield Energy Treated Proprietary Test Formulation on L-NAME and High Fat Diet-Induced Cardiovascular Disorders in Sprague Dawley Rats

Study was aimed to evaluate effect of Biofield Treated Proprietary Formulation and Biofield Treatment per se on cardiac performance on NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride (L-NAME) and high fat diet (HFD)-induced cardiovascular disorders in Sprague Dawley rats. Nine groups were assigned, in which four were preventive maintenance groups. The constituents of test formulation were divided into two parts; one section was defined as the untreated test formulation, while the other portion of the test formulation and three groups of animals received Biofield Energy Healing Treatment remotely for about 3 minutes by a renowned Biofield Energy Healer, Mr. Mahendra Kumar Trivedi. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) was significantly (p≤0.001) decreased by 13.39%, 14.65%, 17.74%, 14.36%, and 14.69% in the G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively as compared to disease control (G2) group. Diastolic blood pressure (DBP)was significantly (p≤0.001) reduced by 25.95%, 24.41%, 30.79%, 24.67%, and 25.23% in G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively than G2. Heart rate (HR) was significantly (p≤0.05) reduced by 6.58%, 8.06%, and 6.99% in G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively than G2. Total leucocyte count (TLC) count was increased by 12.8% and 17.45% in G5 and G8 groups, respectively than G2 group. Neutrophils and lymphocytes were increased by 60.11% (G8) and 11.49% (G5), respectively than G2. Eosinophils were reduced by 11.11%, 20%, and 15% in G6, G7, and G9 groups, respectively than G2. Total cholesterol was significantly decreased by 22.64% (p≤0.05), 15.78%, 25.56% (p≤0.05), 22.56%, and 34.27% in G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively than G2. Triglyceride was significantly (p≤0.001) reduced by 34.55%, 43.29%, 55.23%, 28.57%, and 37.28% in G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively than G2. VLDL level was also significantly (p≤0.001) reduced by 80.81%, 83.61%, 86.82%, 79.19%, and 81.63% in G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 group, respectively; while LDL was reduced by 20.32% (G9) group than G2. Atherogenic index (AI) was significantly (p≤0.001) decreased by 78.36%, 83.21%, 84.68%, 74.06%, and 72.98% in the G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively than G2. The level of uric acid (UA) was significantly (p≤0.001) decreased by 57.51%, 52.36%, 45.49%, 43.78%, and 40.77% in the G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups respectively, as compared with the G2 group. Serum glutamate pyruvate transaminases (SGPT) was significantly (p≤0.001) decreased by 45.96%, 48.01%, 37.19%, 37.69%, and 42.93% in the G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively than G2. Creatine kinase myocardial band (CK-MB) level was significantly reduced by 10.19%, 21.97% (p≤0.01), 10.47%, and 16.94% in the G5, G6, G7, and G9 groups, than G2. Overall, the data suggested significance improvement of heart-related hematology, hepatic, and lipid parameters with respect to various pathological conditions that might be beneficial various types of cardiovascular disorders. Therefore, the results showed the significant slowdown the cardiovascular disease progression and its complications/symptoms in the preventive treatment groups viz. G6, G7, G8, and G9.

Evaluation of Antioxidative Potential of the Biofield Energy Treated Proprietary Test Formulation on L-NAME and High Fat Diet-Induced Cardiovascular Disorders in Sprague Dawley Rats

The aim of this experiment was to assess the antioxidative potential of the Biofield Energy Treated/Blessed Proprietary Test Formulation and Biofield Energy Treatment/Blessing per se to the animals on NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride (L-NAME) and high fat diet (HFD)-induced cardiovascular disorders in Sprague Dawley rats using various functional biomarkers. A test formulation was formulated including minerals (magnesium, zinc, copper, calcium, selenium, and iron), vitamins (ascorbic acid, pyridoxine HCl, vitamin B9, vitamin B12, and vitamin D3), cannabidiol (CBD) isolate, Panax ginseng extract, and β-carotene. The test formulation’s constituents were divided into two parts; one part was denoted as the untreated, while the other part and three group of animals received Biofield Energy Healing/Blessing Treatment remotely for about 3 minutes by a renowned spiritual leader, Mr. Mahendra Kumar Trivedi. The expression of superoxide dismutase (SOD) was elevated significantly by 198.46%, 208.73%, 191.73%, 211.75%, and 198.82% in the G5 (L-NAME + HFD + the Biofield Energy Treated test formulation), G6 (L-NAME + HFD + Biofield Energy Treatment per se to animals from day -15), G7 (L-NAME + HFD + the Biofield Energy Treated test formulation from day -15), G8 (L-NAME + HFD + Biofield Energy Treatment per se plus the Biofield Energy Treated test formulation from day -15), and G9 (L-NAME + HFD + Biofield Energy Treatment per se animals plus the untreated test formulation) groups, respectively than disease control group (G2). Moreover, the level of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) was significantly increased by 61.94%, 118.49%, 82.96%, 141.89%, and 262.02% in the G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively as compared to the G2 group. Lipid peroxidase (LPO) was decreased by 14.21%, 30.98%, 38.66%, and 32.67% in the G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively than G2 group. Additionally, the level of myeloperoxidase (MPO) was decreased by 28.46%, 10.87%, 12.41%, and 13.35% in the G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively than G2. Further, the level of oxidized low density lipoprotein (LDL) was reduced by 65.38%, 65.11%, 71.53%, 79.26%, and 66.57% in the G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively than G2. Besides, in heart tissues, the level of catalase (CAT) was significantly increased by 68.20%, 63.69%, 126.03%, 124.54%, and 112.23% in G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively than G2 group. Moreover, in kidney tissues, the level of CAT was significantly increased by 22.48%, 23.43%, and 10.95% in the G6, G7, and G9 groups, respectively than G2. Overall, the data suggested a significant antioxidant activity by increasing the levels of SOD, CAT, GPx, and reducing the levels of LPO, MPO, and oxidized-LDL in various tissue fluids and that might be beneficial for cardiovascular disorders. Therefore, the study outcomes showed the significant slowdown the oxidative stress-related cardiovascular disease progression and its complications in the preventive treatment groups viz. G6, G7, G8, and G9.

Evaluation of Antioxidative Potential of the Biofield Energy Treated Proprietary Test Formulation on L-NAME and High Fat Diet-Induced Cardiovascular Disorders in Sprague Dawley Rats

The aim of this experiment was to assess the antioxidative potential of the Biofield Energy Treated/Blessed Proprietary Test Formulation and Biofield Energy Treatment/Blessing per se to the animals on NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride (L-NAME) and high fat diet (HFD)-induced cardiovascular disorders in Sprague Dawley rats using various functional biomarkers. A test formulation was formulated including minerals (magnesium, zinc, copper, calcium, selenium, and iron), vitamins (ascorbic acid, pyridoxine HCl, vitamin B9, vitamin B12, and vitamin D3), cannabidiol (CBD) isolate, Panax ginseng extract, and β-carotene. The test formulation’s constituents were divided into two parts; one part was denoted as the untreated, while the other part and three group of animals received Biofield Energy Healing/Blessing Treatment remotely for about 3 minutes by a renowned spiritual leader, Mr. Mahendra Kumar Trivedi. The expression of superoxide dismutase (SOD) was elevated significantly by 198.46%, 208.73%, 191.73%, 211.75%, and 198.82% in the G5 (L-NAME + HFD + the Biofield Energy Treated test formulation), G6 (L-NAME + HFD + Biofield Energy Treatment per se to animals from day -15), G7 (L-NAME + HFD + the Biofield Energy Treated test formulation from day -15), G8 (L-NAME + HFD + Biofield Energy Treatment per se plus the Biofield Energy Treated test formulation from day -15), and G9 (L-NAME + HFD + Biofield Energy Treatment per se animals plus the untreated test formulation) groups, respectively than disease control group (G2). Moreover, the level of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) was significantly increased by 61.94%, 118.49%, 82.96%, 141.89%, and 262.02% in the G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively as compared to the G2 group. Lipid peroxidase (LPO) was decreased by 14.21%, 30.98%, 38.66%, and 32.67% in the G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively than G2 group. Additionally, the level of myeloperoxidase (MPO) was decreased by 28.46%, 10.87%, 12.41%, and 13.35% in the G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively than G2. Further, the level of oxidized low density lipoprotein (LDL) was reduced by 65.38%, 65.11%, 71.53%, 79.26%, and 66.57% in the G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively than G2. Besides, in heart tissues, the level of catalase (CAT) was significantly increased by 68.20%, 63.69%, 126.03%, 124.54%, and 112.23% in G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively than G2 group. Moreover, in kidney tissues, the level of CAT was significantly increased by 22.48%, 23.43%, and 10.95% in the G6, G7, and G9 groups, respectively than G2. Overall, the data suggested a significant antioxidant activity by increasing the levels of SOD, CAT, GPx, and reducing the levels of LPO, MPO, and oxidized-LDL in various tissue fluids and that might be beneficial for cardiovascular disorders. Therefore, the study outcomes showed the significant slowdown the oxidative stress-related cardiovascular disease progression and its complications in the preventive treatment groups viz. G6, G7, G8, and G9.

Elasticity Profile of Skin, Neuronal, Cardiac, and Skeletal Muscle Cells after Treatment with the Biofield Energy Healing-Based Proprietary Test Formulation

The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of the Trivedi Effect®- Biofield Energy Treated/Blessed Test formulation/item (TI) composed of minerals (magnesium, zinc, copper, calcium, selenium, and iron), vitamins (ascorbic acid, pyridoxine HCl, alpha tocopherol, cyanocobalamin, and cholecalciferol), Panax ginseng extract, CBD isolates, and β-carotene on elasticity of skin, heart, muscle, and neuronal cells in the H9C2 (rat cardiomyocytes), C2C12 (mouse myoblast cells), HaCaT (human keratinocytes), and SH-SY5Y (human neuroblastoma cells) cell line in DMEM medium. The test formulation constituents were divided into two parts; one section was defined as untreated test formulation (UT), while the other portion of test formulation received Biofield Energy Healing/Blessing Treatment (BT) by a renowned Biofield Energy Healer, Mr. Mahendra Kumar Trivedi. The test items were treated with Biofield Energy Healing/Blessing Treatment and divided as Biofield Energy Treated/Blessed (BT) and untreated (UT) test items. MTT data showed that the test formulation in various concentrations was found as safe and nontoxic in the tested concentrations with viability range from 73% to 307%. Young’s modulus (YM) is a measure of cell stiffness, a decrease in YM value indicates increase elasticity of the cells and vice-versa. YM in H9C2 cells were decreased by 9.6% and 66.1% in the BT-DMEM + UT-TI group at 0.1 and 1 µg/mL respectively, as compared with untreated test group. However, C2C21 cells showed increased YM by 443.9% at 1 µg/mL in the UT-DMEM + BT-TI group, while 869.6% increased YM in the BT-DMEM + UT-TI group at 1 µg/mL as compared with untreated test group. However, 314% increased YM was reported in the BT-DMEM + BT-TI group at 1 µg/mL as compared with the untreated test group. However, the value of YM was significantly decreased in the HaCaT cell line by 247.7% (at 1 µg/mL), 225.8% (at 0.1 µg/mL), and 97.9% (at 1 µg/mL) in the UT-DMEM + BT-TI, BT-DMEM + UT-TI, and BT-DMEM + BT-TI group respectively, as compared with the untreated group. In addition, YM was significantly decreased in the SH-SY5Y cell line by 92.6%, 18.1%, and 26.6% at 1 µg/mL in the UT-DMEM + BT-TI, BT-DMEM + UT-TI, and BT-DMEM + BT-TI group respectively, as compared with the untreated group. Overall, the results showed the significant decreased YM among the SH-SY5Y, HaCaT, and H9C2 cells, while it was increased in the C2C21 cell line. Thus, the mechanical properties of cells such as cellular function, including shape, motility, differentiation, division, and adhesion to its surrounding extracellular matrix were improved. Overall, it can be useful in many disease progressions with improved cellular elasticity and its associated complications/symptoms.  

Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus): Health-Promoting Benefits and Food Preservative Properties

Natural food preservatives in the form of herb extracts and spices are increasing in popularity due to their potential to replace synthetic compounds traditionally used as food preservatives. Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus) is an herb that has been traditionally used as an anti-inflammatory and analgesic agent, and currently is being studied for anti-cancer and hepatoprotective properties. Rosemary also has been reported to be an effective food preservative due to its high anti-oxidant and anti-microbial activities. These properties allow rosemary prevent microbial growth while decreasing food spoilage through oxidation. Rosemary contains several classes of compounds, including diterpenes, polyphenols, and flavonoids, which can differ between extracts depending on the extraction method. In particular, the diterpenes carnosol and carnosic acid are two of the most abundant phytochemicals found in rosemary, and these compounds contribute up to 90% of the anti-oxidant potential of the herb. Additionally, several in vivo studies have shown that rosemary administration has a positive impact on gastrointestinal (GI) health through decreased oxidative stress and inflammation in the GI tract. The objective of this review is to highlight the food preservative potential of rosemary and detail several studies that investigate rosemary to improve in vivo GI health.

Ecological Significance of Residues Retention for Sustainability of Agriculture in the Semi-arid Tropics

In South Asia, land degradation is primarily a monsoon mediated phenomenon restricted to 2-3 rainy months. The overall strategy for land degradation neutrality should (i) favour actions that keep soils covered with residues and (ii) plant kharif (rainy season) crop before the onset of monsoons to provide soil cover. Retention of anchored residues provides surface cover, increases microbial activity, carbon sequestration, and availability of nutrients. Surface retained residues reduce root zone salinization, detoxify phytotoxic monomeric Al in acidic soils and enhance the potential for use of brackish ground water in crop production. Residues covers save irrigation water and overcome the ill effects of poor agronomic and water management practices. Early direct dry seeding in surface retained residues has the potential of making kharif season planting independent of the onset of monsoon rains in South Asia and helps reduce acreages of Kharif and Rabi fallow lands. For improving carbon content in Indian soils, perhaps the most important priority is to devise tillage and crop residue management approaches that promote in situ rain water storage and its use for growing more crops. The paper summarises how crop residues fuel and drive soil functions and related ecosystem services and plant growth.

Molecular Evolution of the Novel Coronavirus SARS-CoV-2

The coronavirus infectious disease (20)19 (COVID-19) pandemic is caused by a newly identified virus (2019) SARS-CoV-2, a beta coronavirus that shares similarities with other human-infecting coronaviruses. Genomic analysis suggests that SARS-CoV-2 is closely related to SARS-CoV, a bat-related coronavirus, RaTG13, and to other pangolin-associated coronaviruses. The spike protein of coronaviruses are glycoproteins and are responsible for attaching the virus to the host cell and entering. Amino acid changes within the spike protein-encoding gene from SARS-CoV to SARS-CoV-2 enable SARS-CoV-2 to form a stable spike protein, to form a stable complex between the S protein and the receptor ACE2, to increase binding points between the S protein and ACE2, and to survive at higher temperatures. SARS-CoV-2 is zoonotic, with genomic analysis implicating bats as the original host and pangolins as the most likely intermediate host to infect humans. As SARS-CoV-2 infects humans, viral point mutations will continually occur and cause the emergence of new competitive SARS-CoV-2 strains. Two major strains include D614G and N501Y and have increased infectivity and transmission, further complicating the scope of the current COVID-19 pandemic. Vigilant monitoring of viral development and evolution is necessary for developing proper treatment methods and vaccine targets.

Evaluation of the Isotopic Abundance Ratio of Consciousness Energy Healing Treated L-Tryptophan Using LC-MS Spectrometry

L-tryptophan is an essential α-amino acid, necessary for the normal growth in newborns, nitrogen balance in adults, protein synthesis, precursor of serotonin, melatonin, niacin, and albeit inefficiently in human, also the precursor of indole alkaloids and auxins in plants. This current study was designed to investigate the impact of the Trivedi Effect®-Biofield Energy Healing Treatment (Blessing) on the structural properties and the isotopic abundance ratio of L-tryptophan using LC-MS analytical technique. L-tryptophan sample was divided into two parts, one part of L-tryptophan was considered as the control sample (no Biofield Energy Treatment was provided), while the second part was treated with the Trivedi Effect®-Consciousness Energy Healing Treatment/Blessing remotely by a renowned Biofield Energy Healer, Dahryn Trivedi and termed as the treated sample. The mass spectra of both the control and treated samples with respect to the chromatographic peak at retention time (Rt) 2.1 minutes exhibited the mass of the molecular ion peak adduct with hydrogen ion at m/z 205.08 (calcd for C11H13N2O2+, 205.1), along with low molecular fragmented mass peaks at m/z 188, 159, and 102 for C11H12N2O2+, C10H11N2+, and C8H6+, respectively were also observed. The isotopic abundance ratio of PM+1/PM (2H/1H or 13C/12C or 15N/14Nor17O/16O) in the treated L-tryptophan was significantly increased by 35.93% compared with the control sample. Hence,the 13C, 2H, 15N, and 17O contributions from C11H13N2O2+ to m/z 206.08 in the treated L-tryptophan was significantly increased compared to the control sample. It could be hypothesized that the changes in the isotopic abundance and mass peak intensities due to the modification in nuclei possibly through the interference of neutrino particles using the Trivedi Effect®-Consciousness Energy Healing Treatment. The Biofield Energy Treated/Blessed L-tryptophan with increased stable isotopic abundance ratio might have changed the physicochemical properties with higher force constant in the molecule. The new form of treated L-tryptophan would be a better and more stable in the supplements, nutraceutical, and pharmaceutical formulations, which would be advantageous for the prevention and treatment of pellagra, depression, kynurenine. It could also maintain the normal label of tryptophan and avoid increase of its metabolite, lower the neurotoxin and a metabotoxin behavior, glutaric aciduria type I (glutaric acidemia type I) disorder, eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome (EMS), incurable and sometimes fatal flu-like neurological condition, etc. As tryptophan is the precursor for the plant hormones like indole alkaloids and auxins, hence, this treated L-tryptophan would be advantageous for the improvement of yield, productivity, and quality of crops and other plants.

Analgesic and Anti-Pyretic Activities of the Root Bark of Rutidea Parviflora (Rubiaceae)

This study aims at investigating the antipyretic activity of different solvent fractions of the root bark of Rutideaparviflora(Rubiaceae). This plant is used ethno-botanically by the people of Ethiope East-West Local Government Area of Delta State, Nigeria to treat various ailments such as inflammation, fever and pain. This necessitated this research to validate its local use, due to the scanty literature and information present about this plant. It has also shown some anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory activity in previous researches. The present study is a randomized control study. Acetic acid induced writhing was employed for analgesic testing. Acetic acid was used to induce writhing in Wistar rats which were divided into fourteen (14) groups. The groups were administered extracts and fractions of the plant (200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg). The animals were observed for number of writing movements and the percentage writhing was calculated. Baker’s yeast induced pyrexia was employed for the antipyretic testing. The animal groups were administered extracts and fractions of the plant (200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg), with Paracetamol as the standard drug (100 mg/kg) and Normal saline (control) for both experiments. The body temperature of the rats was measured rectally over a period of five (5) hours. All values of P<0.05 were taken as significant. The organic extract, aqueous extract and various fractions (n-hexane, ethyl-acetate, n-butanol and aqueous) produced significant inhibition of writhing responses and pyrexia in a dose dependent manner and time dependent manner respectively. The aqueous extract at a dose of 400mg/kg showed the greatest reduction in writhing, 91.58% compared to the standard drug (paracetamol) which may suggest that the fraction possesses better efficacy than paracetamol as an analgesic. The observed activities could be attributed to these bioactive compounds: Palmatine, Urs-12-ene-24-oic-3-oxo-methyl ester and Gallic acid contained in R. parviflora.

Connecting the use of Biofertilizers on Maize silage or Meadows with Progress in Milk Quality and Economy

A systematic use of biofertilizers can improve both the quality of a farming system and the parameters of milk. Some issues related to biofertilization experiments on six farms in the Po Valley (NW Italy) involved in the production of milk from dairy cattle fed maize silage or grazed on hay produced from permanent meadows are reported in this paper. Biofertilized maize was found to lower the live stem pH by about 2.3%, and NIR spectroscopy foreshadowing major changes in the composition. Overall, the plant silage was improved in quantity (+10%) but also in quality, as shown by the delayed maturity stage of the leaves (crop maturity index -4%), the lower indigestible NDF content (-7%), and the higher digestible carbohydrates and protein in the whole plants. Such favorable feeding conditions, together with the improved palatability of the feed ration, boosted the nutrient values of the protein (+4.6%) and fat contents (+5.7%) in the milk. Moreover, the functional properties of the milk were ameliorated, as testified by the higher levels of vitamin A (+27%) and vitamin E (+25%) and the reduced levels of saturated fatty acids (-6%), especially myristic (-18%) and stearic (-32%) acids, while the unsaturated acids increased by 15%. As far as economy aspects are concerned, the biofertilization of maize for silage has led to consistent rewards pertaining to the marginal price of the milk, which in turn has led to a value chain increase of about 9%, because of the fields cultivation, but mainly of the cow transformation in milk quality issues. On another farm, intensive maize was substituted with permanent biofertilized meadows, over a greening path, and a + 17% value chain increase was obtained that already derived mainly from the best price for milk quality parameters. Such an evolutionary leap toward a new vision of sustainable agriculture for the environment and for animals, in which a better quality of products, animal welfare and company budget are combined with soil biofertilization, can be considered a bonanza.

Antioxidant Activity of Biofield Treated Proprietary Test Formulation Supplemented with Vitamins and Minerals in Vitamin D3 Deficiency Diet (VDD) Induced Sprague Dawley Rats

A proprietary formulation was designed that consisted minerals (zinc, magnesium, iron, calcium, selenium, and copper), vitamins (pyridoxine HCl, cyanocobalamin, ascorbic acid, and cholecalciferol), Panax ginseng extract, and cannabidiol isolate. The study was aimed to assess the potential of the novel test formulation (blessed) and per se to the animals with the Trivedi Effect® in male Sprague Dawley (SD) rats, fed with vitamin D3 deficiency diet (VDD). The test formulation consisted above mentioned ingredients was divided into two parts. One part was left aside as the untreated test formulation without any Biofield Treatment, while the other part was defined as the Biofield Energy Treated sample, which received the Biofield Treatment by renowned Biofield Energy Healer, Mr. Mahendra Kumar Trivedi. The level of lipid peroxidation end product malondialdehyde (MDA) in liver tissues was significantly reduced by 34.59%, 34.91%, and 65.81% (p≤0.001) in test formulation treated with Biofield Energy (G5), Biofield Treated test formulation from day -15 (G7), Biofield Treatment per se with Biofield Treated test formulation from day -15 (G8) groups, respectively as compared to the disease control group (G2). Moreover, level of catalase enzyme in liver tissues was also increased by 8.64% in the G7 group as compared to the G2 group. Besides, in brain homogenate the level of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) was significantly increased by 433.94%, 266.97%, 133.94%, 467.89%, and 489.86% in the G5, Biofield Energy Treatment per se to animals from day -15 (G6), G7, G8, and Biofield Treatment per se animals plus untreated test formulation (G9) groups, respectively than G2. Antioxidant enzyme like superoxide dismutase (SOD) was significantly (p≤0.001) increased by 14.16% in the G9 group as compared to the G2 group. Allover, results signified that the Biofield Treated test formulation significantly increased antioxidative parameters, could be able to give support against oxidative stress induced by free radical and to maintain a good human health.

Evaluation of Acacia- Guar Gum Combination as Delayed Release Coating Former on Solid Placebo Tablets

Objectives The present study addresses evaluation of acacia-guar gum combination as an enteric former for tablet coating aiming to add knowledge on how develop the ability of enteric forming ability of acacia-guar combination. Methods Five formulations of enteric coating solution incorporating guar gum as delayed release polymers along with film coating material acacia gum followed by CMC and glycerin as plasticizer and coloring agents were prepared to coat placebo tablet cores. Different enteric coating formulations organized in different acacia : guar gum ratios as 1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 1:4 and 1:6 were sprayed on placebo tablets surface resulted different delayed coated tablets (F1,F2,F3,F4 &F5) respectively. General appearance and physical parameters were evaluated of each. Enteric coated tablets that revealed promising properties were subjected to accelerated stability study for 3 months to explore the influences of physical aging on tablet coat properties. Results Physical parameters of enteric coated tablets post coating within the range of pharmacopeia specification. The disintegration test was carried out in pH 1.2 and pH 6.8 at 37ºC. F1, F2 and F3 enteric tablets disintegrated immediately with no acid resistance compared F4 and F5 enteric tablets showed good acid resistance coat with smooth tablet surfaces and no coat defects. F5 formula contain acacia: guar gum as 1:6 ratio showed delayed release for 30min in pH 1.2 and 15min in phosphate buffer. The study statistically analyzed and concluded that, an efficient and stable acacia-guar enteric coat is achievable with no effect on tablets physical parameters. Guar gum at 60% as a delayed tablet coating material capable of protecting the tablets core from being released in acidic media and be release in the alkaline buffer as well as stable coat under accelerated storage for three months.

Effect of Wheat Germ, Wheat Germ Oil on Lipid Profile of Hypercholesterolemic Rats

Hypercholesterolemia plays an important role in atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases (CVD) that represent one of the greatest worldwide medical problems nowadays. Recently, an increased attention/ interest for natural antioxidant/ hypercholesterolemia as WG/WGO is increasing. Wheat germ/ Wheat germ oil (WG/WGO) is an excellent source of essential and polyunsaturated fatty acids and vitamin E. It is one of the richest natural sources of tocopherol. This work aims to evaluate the effect of administration of wheat germ (WG) /wheat germ oil (WGO) for 6 weeks on serum lipid profile, lipid peroxidation (liver malondialdehyde) in hypercholesterolemic rats. One hundred and twenty maleSprague Dawelyrats weighing 180-192 gm were used in this study. They were randomly distributed into six groups (20 rats/ group) as follow: g1: normal control, G2: hypercholesterolemic rats; G3: Normal rats treated with WG; G4: hypercholesterolemic rats treated with WG; G5: Normal rats treated with WGO; G6: hypercholesterolemic rats treated with WGO for 6 weeks. Also WG was analysed for its nutritive value, while WGO was analysed for fatty acid profile, and studied for its physico-chemical properties. The results showed significant elevation of liver malondialdehyde (MDA) and serum lipid profile in untreated rats fed on hypercholesterolemic diet. Hypercholesterolemic rats treated with WG/WGO showed an improvement in the biochemical assay of their lipid profile compared with untreated hypercholesterolemic rats. WG/WGO may be able to protect against atherosclerosis and CVD. The administration of WG /WGO to diets of rats caused a marked reduction in TC, LDL-C, VLDL-C, TG and MDA. This improvement effect may be mediated via enhancement of the antioxidant defence system and other factors. However, further clinical studies on human beings are required to assess the efficacy and safety of the WG/WGO.

RETRACTED: Non-Surgical Removal of Basal Cell Carcinoma by Apis Mellifera L Venom

This article has been retracted on March 01, 2021. VIEW THE RETRACTION NOTICE (https://openaccesspub.org/jsce/article/2243) Background Apis Mellifera L venom (Honeybees) is potent and safe anticancer drug. The present case is Basal Cell Carcinoma (SBCC), recurrent and invasde the skin of head (upper right, in front of the right ear). The patient was 65 years old in time of first intervention and the origin of BCC was primarily seen as abnormal growths and changes in birth mole on right side of head. Materials & Methods Preparation Bee Venom solution: Bee venom powder (crude) of dose 1gm was dissolved in 1000 ml of sterile distilled water then filtered by 0.22 micron syring filter. That final concentration of the stock bee venom become 1 ug /ml (i.e. 1ul=1 ug), and kept at -20◦C. (1mg (dried BV) + 1ml (water) = Final concentration (1ug/1 ul)). Before this novel intervention, allergy test performed by subcutaneous injection of small dose of bee venom (0.1 ml) and wait for at least one hour. The patient was not hypersensitive to honeybees’ venom. First stage of treatment: 1- Syringe of 1ml volume was used for direct local injection of cancer area by 0.3 ml from prepared Honeybees venom (0.1 % conc.). 2- At the same time, subcutaneous injection of 0.5 ml of bee venom solution infiltrated around the affected ear. 3- Topical application of the bee venom ointment 2% (bee venom in Vaseline) inside affected ear to protect the ear drum. This process repeated daily with cleaning of the ear every time by suitable safe and sterile saline solutions. 2nd stage: daily S/C injection in axillary area upper lymph nodes of 0.3 ml / bee venom ‘total doses 0.6 ml BV’ (left & right). 3rd stage: bee venom dissolved in sterile Clove oil was applied on inner ear above the drum. 4th stage: Management of healing process was enhanced by ascorbic acid solution as topical application on dead cancer cells and to help in removal of exudates and debris. Results The complete removal of malignant growths in affected ear achieved after 1 month from first bee venom injections. However; the cancerous areas under the second surgical intervention were treated during the next month. Conclusions Apis Mellifera L venom as anticancer drug is totally different from using direct stings as a method of Apitherapy, that because collection of bee venom lead to evaporating of most allergic substance that present in bees stings, also it can be used per os in people who exhibit different degrees of allergy against the drug safely.

Preparation of Microwave Multi-Adsorbent Nanocomposites Based on Copper, Iron Carbonyl, Carbon Nanofiber, Graphite Nanoflake and Polypyrrole

The composites of Cu, Carbonyl iron (CI), carbon nanofiber (CNF), graphite nanoflake (GNF)/polypyrrole (PPy) and [(Cu-CI-CNF-GNF) 0.5-PAA]-PPy0.5 were synthesized via different methods by in-situ polymerization on the surface of nanoparticles (NPs) with core-shell structure. This paper describes a method for polyacrylic acid (PAA) coating of NPs in aqueous solution. Then PPy coating was performed by template polymerization on NPs-PAA. Morphology, magnetic and conductivity properties were observed via scanning electron microscopy (SEM), vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) and four probe method, respectively. The microwave characterization of nanocomposite was evaluated through arch test based on a network analyzer. The PPy nanocomposites possessed the excellent microwave multi absorbers properties in 2-18 GHz. It was also found that nanocomposites with 50% w/w and light weight exhibit good microwave absorbing properties in 2-3 GHz and 5-14 GHz frequency, so can be used to cellphone, radio frequency and radar shielding.

Effects of Different Extraction Methods on Antioxidant Properties and Allicin Content of Garlic

The ever-present need for human communities to extract herbal active ingredients has necessitated many studies to be carried out in order to introduce more efficient and cost-effective extraction processes. The traditional extraction methods are very time consuming and use large volumes of solvents. The large volumes of solvents consumed in such methods not only increase costs but also pose many environmental problems. New extraction methods have been recently introduced to replace the traditional ones. These new methods reduce the volumes of required solvents, shorten the process and increase its efficiency and improve the quality of the products. In this study, the three methods of immersion, boiling, and ultrasound using water/ethanol solvents were employed for garlic extraction and compared with each other in terms of the extraction speed and time, the antioxidant property of the extract, and the quantity of the heat-sensitive active ingredient. The results showed that the highest allicin content (0.086%) was observed in the ultrasonic aqueous extract. The largest amounts of phenolic compounds (0.311 mg gallic acid equivalent) were observed in the ultrasonic aqueous extract followed by the aqueous extract prepared after 72 h in a shaking incubator. The highest inhibition rate (50% at 5000 ppm) was that of the ultrasonic aqueous extract and the shaken aqueous extract. Other extracts achieved an inhibition rate of 50% at 8000 ppm. Therefore, ultrasonic extraction can be a good alternative to traditional extraction methods.

Evaluation of Biological Activities of Opuntia Ficus Indica Cladodes Extract Against Cadmium-Induced Osteoporosis in Male Wistar Rats

The cactus Opuntia ficus indica (L.) Mill. (Cactaceae) is widely used in Tunisian medicine for the treatment of various illnesses. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the antioxidant activities of cactus cladode extract (CCE) and to assess the protective effects of Opuntia ficus indica against osteoporosis induced by cadmium chloride in male Wistar rats. Adult male rats were divided into 4 groups of 9 each: a control group, a group injected with cadmium (3.5mg/kg) for 10 weeks, a group orally given a O. ficus indica cladodes aqueous extract (CCE) (100 mg /kg/day) for 10 weeks then treated with cadmium, and a group receiving only (CCE) for 10 weeks. Bone toxicity was estimated by examining femoral length and weight, calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and total tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (ACP) levels in serum. Also, bone levels of calcium, phosphorus and vitamin C and bone mineral density (BMD) of femur diaphysis were measured. Alterations of these bone biomarkers and decreased BMD confirmed cadmium-induced bone toxicity. However, when cadmium was administered in rats given CCE, all the biological parameters underwent much less alteration. Administration of CCE was found to be beneficial by attenuating cadmium-induced femur damage. The protective effect of the plant is mainly attributed to its phenolic compounds that orchestrate antioxidant properties, as highlighted by HPLC-based analysis.

Cloning, Expression and Characterization of the α-glucuronidase from the Hyperthermophile DictyoglomusturgidumDSM 6724Ô

Conversion of biomass into fermentable sugars is a major requirement for successful and cost-effective biofuels production. The conversion of xylan to sugars requires multiple enzymes including α-glucuronidase. Here we report the cloning, expression, purification and characterization of the α-glucuronidase from Dictyoglomusturgidum(DtuAgu). DtuAgu is an intracellular protein of 685 amino acids and a predicted molecular weight of 79.4 kD. Enzymatic activity was optimum between pH 7.0 and 8.0 and at 85°C. The specific activity of the enzyme was 10 u/mg when measured using mixed aldouronic acids. The specific activity on isolated glucuronoxylan was approximately 20% of the value obtained with xylooligosaccharides. DtuAgu significantly improved xylan conversion to xylose when evaluated using two mixtures of thermostable bacterial enzymes and two sources of xylan. DtuAgu has the potential to be a key player in thermostable enzyme cocktails for the conversion to biomass to biofuels.α

Awareness about the Importance of Nutrition During Pregnancy Among Women in Child Bearing Age: A Quantitative Study Among Urban Women.

Introduction An adequate nutrition pattern is of major importance for one’s health and well-being, especially during pregnancy when a woman undergoes major biological, physical, psychological and social transformations. Macronutrient and micronutrient deficiencies predispose the fetus to preterm birth, neural tube defects, and low birth weight for gestational age. This study was conducted to determine the nutrition awareness of women in childbearing age in order to provide a greater understanding of the life course perspective (LCP) in relation to nutrition behaviors and pregnancy. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted on based on our conceptualization of nutrition awareness and questionnaire based studies of a face-to-face interview. The participants were women with age group of 17 years to 45 years participate in studies in Jeddah city. Data collection procedures A Semi-structured questionnaires prepared in English language were translated in to Arabic and then translated back to English to check for consistency. The questionnaires were pretested Human ethical committee; the questions assessed respondents’ nutrition knowledge. Results and Discussion Different questions were asked to 175 selected pregnant women to be included in this study assess knowledge of pregnant mothers on nutrition and determinant factors in the study area. Most of the respondents (34.85.2%) were in 19-25 years of age group.69.1 % (n=121) women says they pay attention to the number of soft drinks they drink each day. There would be fascinating to study awareness of specific nutrients and related issues, like consumption folic acid, non-vegetarian diet, minerals and life style such as mental stress and physical exercise.

Molecular Analysis of 6-pyruvoyltetrahydropterin Synthase Gene in Atypical Phenylketonuric Egyptian Patients

Background Hyperphenylalaninemia (HPA) combined with neurological signs due to impaired catecholamine, dopamine and serotonin synthesis. Symptoms may appears in first week of life but most seen in age of 4 months. Atypical PKU disease caused mainly by deficiency in 6-pyruvoyltetrahydropterin synthase (PTPS) involved in synthesis of BH4. Clinical symptoms may include poor sucking, impaired tone, ataxia, and seizures. The purpose of this study was to analyze the genotype-phenotype relation among BH4 deficient patients because of PTPS mutations in different state of Egypt. Methods Suspected PKU patients loaded with phenylalanine/Kuvan, and the level of phe and phe/tyrosine ratio determined using tandem mass spectrometry by dried blood spots. Blood samples of 13 unrelated Egyptian patients were collected for total RNA extraction, amplification of PTPS gene by PCR followed with sequencing by Sanger method and finally mutations were recorded for genetic analysis. Results The mean value of phe in 13 patients decreased after loaded of phenylalanine from 482.5μmol/L to 270.63 μmol/L as well as phe/tyrosine ratio was decreased from 13.4 to 6.36 after 24hour of treatment with Kuvan. Sanger sequencing of PTPS gene of those patient showed 21 SNPs and Indels mutations. The most repeated mutation is a novel 23 base pair homozygous deletion in 12/13; c.200C>T in four patients, a novel c.86A>T in two patients and three different mutations located once in three different patients (novel c.22C>T; novel c.273G>A and 405T>C) among patients. On amino acid predicted sequences 4 different types of mutations on protein level were presented, 1 deletion mutation in seven amino acid and 3 different missense mutations in addition to 2 silent mutations among 13 patients. Conclusion Patients were the first case of clinical diagnosis as hyperphenylalaninemia (HPA) undergoing genetic diagnosis for PTPS deficiency in Egypt. The sever HPA patients with severe nervous system damage mainly accompanied with deletion mutations and should pay more attention to the BH4 deficiency. While mild HPA is associated with base substitution mutations with mainly transition mutations (7/9; 78%). Next-generation sequencing technique can increase the mutation detection rate when the hereditary diseases are highly suspected in clinic.

Antioxidant Activity of Surinamese Medicinal Plants with Adaptogenic Properties and Correlation with Total Phenolic Contents

Plant-based preparations are commonly used in Suriname (South America) as adaptogens. In this study, fifteen alleged adaptogenic Surinamese plants have been assessed for their antioxidant activity (AA), total phenolic contents (TPC), and total flavonoid contents (TFC). The investigated plants were Anacardium occidentale, Spondiasdulcis, Annona muricata, Euterpe oleracea, Oenocarpus bacaba, Luffa acutangula, Punicagranatum, Malpighia emarginata, Syzygiumaqueum, Syzygiumcumini, Averrhoa carambola, and Renealmiaalpinia (fruit); Hibiscus sabdariffa (calyx); as well as Aloe vera and Cestrum latifolium (leaf). Aqueous extracts (1 - 3,000 μg/ mL) were prepared. AA was determined by the FRAP and the DPPH assay. TPC and TFC were determined by the Folin-Ciocalteu’s and an AlCl3 colorimetric method, respectively, using gallic acid (GA) and rutin (R), respectively, as standards. Data are means ± SDs (n ≥ 3; P < 0.05). FRAP values and DPPH-scavenging activities correlated positively with each other and with TPC but not with TFC. The preparations from M. emarginata, A. carambola, A. occidentale, O. bacaba, C. latifolium, and H. sabdariffa displayed the highest FRAP values (54 ± 14 to 412 ± 30 µM Fe2+/100 μg), DPPH-scavenging activities (IC50 values of 33 ± 14 to 250 ± 50 μg/mL), and TPC (51 ± 4 to 280 ± 78 µM GAE/100 µg). TFC of all samples were ≤ 10 ± 3 RE/100 µg. The adaptogenic properties of these plants may (partially) be attributed to their high content of antioxidant phenolic compounds and may make them candidates of novel sources of health-promoting antioxidants.

SARS-Corona Virus-2 Origin and Treatment, From Coffee to Coffee: A Double-Edged Sword

Identifying the epidemiological characteristics of COVID-19 disease will help to make appropriate decisions and thus control the epidemic. Although many details, such as the source of the virus and its ability to spread between people remain unknown, an increasing number of cases show the signs of human-to-human transmission. The purpose of this review is to introduce the reservoir hosts, and the possible role of distributions of bat coronaviruses in China, and eventually to aim to predict virus natural hotspots and their cross-species transmission potential. Why bats can maintain coronaviruses long-term without showing clinical symptoms of diseases and what is allowing bats to have a higher tolerance against viral diseases. We need to unveil the mystery of unique bat immunity. Although bats are not in close contact with humans, spillover of viruses from bats to intermediate animal hosts like civet is thought to be the most likely mode to cause human infection. It appears that the coffee beans which are a rich source of chlorogenic acid are acting as a reservoir host and causative agent, and at the same time as a defense agent to create resistance in the consumers (bats and animals). It is assumed that the intake of chlorogenic acid should be capable of protecting human from contamination or severe morbidity.  

Distribution Spread and Environmental Risk Status of Pb, Cd And Cr in Soils of an Open-Air Waste Dumpsite along Tombia/Amassoma Road in Yenagoa Metropolis

In spite of the popularity of open-air waste dumping in Nigeria, it remains a relatively less effective waste management option across the globe because of its associated environmental impacts which includes the release of green house gases (GHGs), persistent organic pollutants (POPs), and metal micro-pollutants amongst others. This study aims to assess the potential environmental risks associated to metals released and vertically delineated across the soil profile within surroundings of dumpsite. Heavy metals in soil samples were acid-digested using the aqua-regia mixture of hydrochloric and nitric acid, followed by instrumentation analysis using the GBC 908 PBMT model atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Contaminated sites showed metal concentrations ranging from 1.493 to 109.460 mg/kg, 0.133 to 4.237 mg/kg, and 5.200 to 25.367 mg/kg for lead, cadmium and chromium respectively, with location 1 land area showing the most contamination. Only soil chromium was observed within regulatory stipulations in all cases. There was significant variation (p < 0.05) between the different sample locations, thereby indicating variations in composition of dumped wastes. Lead and cadmium showed the strongest positive correlation (r = 0.855, p < 0.01) and the application of some heavy metal pollution indicators revealed relatively higher metal loads and degree of contamination, as well as depicting potential ecological risk for soils of location 1. The significant heavy metal contamination of soils in the Tombia-Amassoma waste dumpsite requires that the local environmental sanitation and regulatory authorities take necessary remedial action to forestall the escalation of public health concerns that may emanate from this open-air dump.

The Effect of 2,4 Dimethylamine salt on the Blood, Liver and Muscle of Oryclotagus Cuniculus

Aminoforce containing 720g/l of 2,4-dimethylamine salt induced changes on some enzymes and electrolytes in the male Oryclotagus cuniculus (New Zealand rabbit) were assayed. The organisms were exposed to varying sub-lethal concentrations of the toxicant (720g/l). The concentrations were prepared by pipetting 0.4mls, 0.8mls and 0.12mls making it up to 1.5L clean water in a metal container to make 2.0 mgl-1, 4.0 mgl-1 and 6.0 mgl-1. Aspartate amino transferase (AST), Alanine amino transferase (ALT) and Acid phosphatase (ACP) were assayed in the liver and blood. Results showed that aspartate amino transferase values in the liver and blood were significant (p<0.05) across the concentration of the toxicants. Aspartate amino transferase increased as the concentration of the toxicant increased in the liver, and decreased as the toxicant concentration increased in the blood. Alanine amino transferase in the blood and liver were akin to AST while ACP values increased in the blood and decreased in the liver as the concentration of the toxicant increased. Electrolytes (Sodium (Na+), potassium (K+) and magnesium (Mg2+) ions) showed statistical deviation across the various concentration of the toxicants. Chloride ion values stabilized in the experimental group being not significantly different (p>0.05) across the various concentration of the toxicants. From the study, AST, ALT and ACP are suitable biomarkers for showing sub-lethal effect of aminoforce on Oryclotagus cuniculus. The effects recorded clearly unveiled the potential effect of this xenobiotics on Oryclotagus cuniculus. Therefore, exposure of Oryclotagus cuniculus to this toxicant will affect the organism’s physiological responses and over prolong period of time it could lead to death. Additionally, via food chain man may be affected. The use of this toxicant close to rabbittory should be done with utmost caution.

Domestic Pigeons As A Potential Hazzard For Transmission Of Some Human Protozoan Parasites

Domestic pigeons (Columba liviadomestica) of the order Columbiformes are ubiquitous birds and can be found in virtually every town and city around the globe. Their interaction with humans and domestic animals and wild birds makes them a potential carrier of zoonotic parasites. The present study aimed to detect the prevalence of different zoonotic protozoans that affect different-aged domestic pigeons in different localities in Assiut Governorate, Egypt. A total of 50 fecal samples from 20 young and 30 adult pigeons were collected and examined for identification and estimation of prevalence of Cryptosporidium sp. and Microsporidium sp. using modified Kinyoun acid-fast stain. For detection of the prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii, serum samples from 50 pigeons were examined serologically for the presence of Toxoplasma antibodies by using Latex Agglutination test. The prevalence of Cryptosporidium sp. infection was 20%; 6.7% in adult pigeons and 40 % in young pigeons while that of Microsporidium sp. was 40% both in adult and young pigeons. Mixed infection was detected in only two young pigeons (10%). Regarding Toxoplasma gondii detection, the number of seropositive cases detected by LAT was 29 out of 50 (58%). The positive agglutination titers, among 14 (48.27%) seropositive pigeons ranged between 1:2 -1:128. It was concluded that domestic pigeons may be considered as a reservoir host for Cryptosporidium, Microsporidium, and Toxoplasmagondii human infection which represents a serious human public health problem especially for high risk groups of population living in the same dwellings with pigeons. Moreover, the present pilot results provide a baseline data for planning future researches and control strategies against domestic pigeon's parasites.

Study of Antioxidant and Membrane Resistant Peculiarities of a New Cyan Containing Lactone in Membranes of Hepatocytes with Sarcoma-45

The antioxidant and membrane resistant peculiarities of a new derivative (2-cyan-3,4,4-trymethil-2-buten-4-olyd - CTBO) of cyan containing unsaturated lactones have been studied in membranes of hepatocytes with Sarcoma-45 1. The results of our previous research 123 showed significant changes of phospholipid (PL) exchange in hepatocytes of microsomal membranes at experimental animals vaccinated with Sarcoma-45 tumor strain. It is manifested in significant changes of quantitative and qualitative contents of membrane phospholipids separate fractions, increase of cytotoxic lysophospholipids (LPCs), phosphatidylinositol (PI) and phosphatidic acid (PA) levels, significant decrease of phosphatitylcholines (PC) and sphingomyeline (SP) contents, statistically significant changes of PL/PL ratio, peroxidation ratio intensity, dramatic increase of phospholipase A2 (PLA2)activity, quantitative and qualitative changes of adenyl nucleotides, as well as disorders of adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase) system activity 34567.

Pyruvate Research and Clinical Application Outlooks A Revolutionary Medical Advance

Pyruvate holds superior biomedical properties in increase of hypoxia tolerance, correction of severe acidosis, exertion of anti-oxidative stress and protection of mitochondria against apoptosis, so that it improves multi-organ function in various pathogenic insults. Particularly, pyruvate preserves key enzyme: pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) activity through direct inhibition of pyruvate dehydrogenase kinas (PDK), as a PDH activator, in hypoxia. Therefore, pyruvate is robustly beneficial for cell/organ function over citrate, acetate, lactate, bicarbonate and chloride as anions in current medical fluids. Pyruvate-enriched oral rehydration salt/solution (Pyr-ORS) and pyruvate-based intravenous (IV) fluids would be more beneficial than WHO-ORS and current IV fluids in both crystalloids and colloids, respectively. Pyruvate-containing fluids as the new generation would be not only a volume expander, but also a therapeutic agent simultaneously in fluid resuscitation in critical care patients. Pyruvate may be also beneficial in prevent and treatment of diabetes, aging and even cancer. Pyruvate clinical applications indicates a new revolutionary medical advance, following the WHO-ORS prevalence, this century.

Evaluation of the Relationship Between Advanced Oxidation end Products and Inflammatory Markers in Maintenance Hemodialysis Patients

Introduction Increased oxidative stress and blunted anti-oxidant mechanisms are important problems in hemodialysis (HD) patients. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) act directly on proteins, leading to the formation of oxidized amino acids. Advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP) are among these substances. Many oxidant substances increase the level of AOPP. Iron is an element with strong oxidant capacity, especially when used intravenously. It is thought that iron treatment further increases the oxidative stress in HD patients. We aimed to investigate the relationship between AOPP and inflammatory status in HD patients. Materials and Methods Patients who were on maintenance HD program without additional co-morbidities and no history of use of intravenous iron within the last two weeks were recruited in the study. The blood samples taken just before the dialysis session were analyzed for AOPP, serum iron, total iron binding capacity (TIBC), ferritin, C-reactive protein (CRP), ß2-microglobulin, fibrinogen, interleukin (IL)-1, IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α levels besides routine biochemical measurements and complete blood count. Results The number of patients included in the study was 102 (n: 53 female, %52.0) and the mean age was 47.6±13.9 years. The mean transferrin saturation was 25.4%. AOPP levels, iron use in patients was higher compared to patients who do not use (respectively 2.58±0.19 mmol/l and 2.50 ±0.16mmol/l, p = 0.046). We did not detect statistically significant correlation of AOPP levels with iron parameters and other inflammatory markers. Conclusion The present study showed that intravenous iron therapy does not increase oxidative stress. Although serum AOPP level was higher in patients on intravenous iron treatment, it was not correlated with iron indices and inflammatory markers. So, intravenous iron may exert its oxidant effect free from serum iron indices.

Sunspots are Correlated with Foliar pH in Grapevines

Foliar pH is a specific multifaceted parameter that is sensitive to a deficit in soil water and to temperature variations. It also represents a tool that can be used to rapidly phenotype the symbiosis induced in several crops by bio-fertilizers containing Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi. Yearly decreases in foliar pH, which dropped from 3.73 in 2015 to 3.15 in 2017 and then stabilized at around 3.13, have been observed in an experimental vineyard near Torino (Italy) in six grapevine cultivars. In this paper, these curious, original results have been paired with the average sunspots of the 24th sun cycle, proximal to its endpoint. The paired values were highly correlated (r 0.95 P< 0.01), with close parabolic patterns. A lowering in foliar pH has been correlated with a modification of the leaf composition, as characterized by the higher hydration and reinforced wall. An increase in the circulating acidity of the plants has been hypothesized to interfere in a diminution in the general predisposition to block parasite attacks. From this perspective, the retrieval of several historic outbreaks and the long-term systematic monitoring of mud and Erwinia amylovora frequencies have suggested that the hypothesis that links the solar minima with dysfunctions of the plant-pest relationships cannot always be rejected. Cosmic influences pertaining to UV variations are poorly understood in plant physiopathology. Foliar pH appears to be a rapid and simple tool to unveil high-level mechanisms. It is this simple parameter that physiologists and geneticists, but also agronomists, are asked to consider.

Spectroscopic and Foliar pH Model for Yield Prediction in a Symbiotic Corn Production 

The agronomic management of symbiotic (S) inoculations, by means of bio-fertilizers (BF), is aimed at inducing modifications of the plant rhizosphere and thereafter of the phenotype and yield of the crop. It is here shown that the yield response of maize to a symbiotic treatment may be correlated to six easy-to-calculate indicator variables on the basis of the raw foliar pH, NIR-Spectroscopy of leaves, and the NIRS of hay litter-bags from soils. It has been confirmed, in a set of thirteen pairwise comparisons of Symbiotic (S) soil inoculated by BF vs. Control (non-inoculated soil; C), that the inoculation on average acidified the leaves by -3.7% pH units (P<0.0001). The responses in yield ranged from +25.2% to -9.2% (av.ge +3.5%; P = 0.03), but with average null responses in two centers and a significant response (+11%) in a third center. NIR-Tomoscopy scans (No. 574) were also performed on the leaves, and in addition, hay-litter-bags that had previously been buried in fields were dug up after two months, and 431 NIR- scans were acquired. The effect-size on the yield was expressed as the logarithm of the response ratio, i.e. the mean of the inoculated Symbiotic treatment divided by the mean of the non-inoculated Control for each pairwise comparison. A multiple regression model was developed to predict the symbiotic response to the treatment using six independent variables, including the squared litter-bag fingerprints, and an R2adj. level of 0.78 (P=0.01) was reached, with a standard error of ±4%. Validation in one external maize field, with a positive response to bio-fertilizers, demonstrates the juxtaposition of the estimated and accomplished yield. In a second experiment, with 40 pairwise comparisons, the two tested maize varieties did not respond to five types of bio-fertilizer, and the negative results were predicted at 84% (P 0.0012). The soil biota is a key factor for the application of appropriate microbial inoculants in the field, but the genotype/genotype interactions between the microbial strain (s) and the crop cultivar (s) require prior screening to obtain the desired results.

Triacontanol Alleviated Nickel Toxicity in Maize Seedling by Controlling Its Uptake and Enhancing Antioxidant System

Triacontanol (TRIA) role in improving growth, physiological activities and tolerance against abiotic stresses has been reported. Yet, the mechanism by which TRIA executes its effects remains elusive. This work therefore studied the possible role of TRIA exogenous application in counteracting the adverse effects of nickel (Ni) treated maize seedlings. Maize seedlings (15-day-old) were grown in washed sand irrigated with nutrient solution provided with 100 μM NiCl2. Two concentrations of TRIA (25 and 50 µM) were applied twice as a foliar spray for Ni-stressed seedlings. Shoot and root growth attributes, Ni content, and antioxidant defence systems of maize seedlings were determined. Ni treatment reduced the shoot and root length and biomass, causing necrosis of the old leaves,greater reduction was shown in the roots. The shoot and root length was negatively correlated with their Ni content, which was consistent with their content of H2O2, but not with their malondialdehyde (MDA) content. As the roots had the greatest Ni content, maximum peroxidase (PX) and glutathione reductase (GR) activity as well as the highest ascorbic acid (ASA) and reduced glutathione (GSH) content were observed in the roots. The Ni-induced deleterious effects were alleviated by foliar application of TRIA concentrations. Also, TRIA treatment minimized root Ni content, whereas it maintained the shoots unharmed by Ni. Such mitigative effects of TRIA are explained by its key role in enhancing antioxidant capacity (expressed as IC50), increased PX and ascorbate oxidase (AO) activity, GSH, and total phenolic contents.

Effect of a High Fat and High Protein Diet on Exercise-Induced Skeletal Muscle Hypertrophy in Rats

The skeletal muscle mass varies by race. Dietary habits over generations are a factor that influences the skeletal muscle mass, as well as genetic factors. Therefore, we investigated the effects of diets with different macronutrient contents on exercise-induced muscle hypertrophy in rats. Male 4-week-old Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly divided into three groups: a normal-diet (N), high-protein diet (HP) and high-fat diet (HF) group. The food intake was manipulated to gain comparable body weight across the three groups. All rats were performed a climbing exercise training for 8 weeks. The final body weight and weight of the liver, kidneys and adipose tissues did not significantly differ among the groups. The flexor hallucis longus was significantly higher in the HF group than in the HP group. The total lipid content in the muscle was significantly higher in the HF group than in the N group, while it did not differ significantly between the HF and HP groups. There were no marked differences in the water or protein content in the muscle among the groups. The plasma amino acid concentration was significantly or tended to be lower in the HP group than in the HF or N group, except for the branched-chain amino acid concentration, which tended to be higher after ingesting the HP diet than other diets. These findings suggest that consuming an HP diet is not likely to facilitate exercise-induced muscle hypertrophy, partly due to the plasma amino acid imbalance induced by habitual HP diet consumption.

Changes in Adult Rats’ Testis structure Induced by Hypothyroidism and Alleviating Role of L-Carnitine

Background Hypothyroidism is a metabolic disorder affecting the functions of many tissues in the body including the testis. Testis is rich in the polyunsaturated fatty acids content and lacks strong intrinsic antioxidant system making it prone to such oxidative stress. L-carnitine (LC) regulates long chain fatty acids metabolism; and is considered a valuable antioxidant factor. Aim It was to evaluate the effect of hypothyroidism induced by propylthiouracil (PTU) on rats’ testes and the possible protective role of LC. Methods Forty-eight adult male albino rats were used in this work. The animals were divided into three groups with sixteen animals in each. Group 1 (Control): Animals were kept without medications. Group 2 (PTU-treated): was subjected to administration of PTU; while group 3 (PTU and LC) received both PTU and LC. By the end of the experiment “30 days”, blood samples were taken for hormonal assay; then animals were anaesthetized and sacrificed. Specimens were homogenized for biochemical analysis; epididymal content of each rat was obtained immediately for semen analysis. Testes’ specimens were harvested, prepared and examined by light microscope examination. Results Induced hypothyroidism was noticed to cause histopathological, morphometric and biochemical changes in rat’s testes. LC protected the testicular specimens against such changes; it also improved the seminal quality and quantity as well as testicular structure and biochemistry. Conclusion Hypothyroidism could result in hazards to the structure of testis. Fortunately co-administration of LC might reduce such hazards.

Tetrodotoxin (TTX) Time–Resolved Absorption and Resonance FT–IR and Raman Biospectroscopy and Density Functional Theory (DFT) Investigation of Vibronic–Mode Coupling Structure in Vibrational Spectra Analysis

Tetrodotoxin (TTX) is a potent neurotoxin. Its name derives from Tetraodontiformes, an order that includes pufferfish, porcupinefish, ocean sunfish, and triggerfish; several of these species carry the toxin. Although tetrodotoxin was discovered in these fish and found in several other aquatic animals (e.g., in blue–ringed octopuses, rough–skinned newts, and moon snails), it is actually produced by certain infecting or symbiotic bacteria like Pseudoalteromonas, Pseudomonas, and Vibrio as well as other species found in animals. Parameters such as FT–IR and Raman vibrational wavelengths and intensities for single crystal Tetrodotoxin (TTX)are calculated using density functional theory and were compared with empirical results. The investigation about vibrational spectrum of cycle dimers in crystal with carboxyl groups from each molecule of acid was shown that it leads to create Hydrogen bounds for adjacent molecules. The current study aimed to investigate the possibility of simulating the empirical values. Analysis of vibrational spectrum of Tetrodotoxin (TTX) is performed based on theoretical simulation and FT–IR empirical spectrum and Raman empirical spectrum using density functional theory in levels of F/6–31G*, HF/6–31++G**, MP2/6–31G, MP2/6–31++G**, BLYP/6–31G, BLYP/6–31++G**, B3LYP/6–31G and B3LYP6–31–HEG**. Vibration modes of methylene, carboxyl acid and phenyl cycle are separately investigated. The obtained values confirm high accuracy and validity of results obtained from calculations. Molecular structure of Tetrodotoxin (TTX) 1–42.

Consciousness Energy Healing Treatment: Impact on the Physicochemical and Thermal Properties of Pyridoxine HCl

Pyridoxine HCl plays an important role in the human body as a coenzyme in the synthesis process of amino acids and neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine, aminolevulinic acid, sphingolipids, etc. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of the Trivedi Effect®-Consciousness Energy Healing Treatment on the various physicochemical and thermal properties of pyridoxine HCl using various analytical techniques such. The study plan involved dividing the pyridoxine HCl sample into two parts, in which, the first part was not given any treatment (control sample), while the second part was provided the Consciousness Energy Healing Treatment by a renowned Biofield Energy Healer, Gopal Nayak and named as the Biofield Energy Treated pyridoxine. The particle size values of the treated pyridoxine was altered by -19.51% (d10), -11.92% (d50), 2.46% (d90), and -2.44% {D(4,3)}; whereas, the surface area was significantly increased by 18.92%, compared to the control sample. The powder X-ray diffraction data showed the remarkable increase in the peak intensities and crystallite sizes of the treated pyridoxine in the range from 8.81% to 21.57% and 9.64% to 17.85%, respectively compared to the control sample. Moreover, the treated pyridoxine also showed an increase in the average crystallite size by 13.69%, compared to the control sample. The total weight loss of the treated pyridoxine was significantly reduced by 13.35% during the thermal degradation; however, the residue weight was increased by 29.48% after degradation, in comparison to the control sample. The maximum thermal degradation temperature of the treated pyridoxine corresponding to 1st and 2nd peak was altered by 4.37% and 2.24%, respectively than the control sample. The latent heat of fusion of the treated pyridoxine was significantly increased by 5.89% compared to the control sample. Hence, it was assumed that the Trivedi Effect®-Consciousness Energy Healing Treatment might form a new polymorph of pyridoxine HCl that might be helpful in designing more efficacious pharmaceutical/nutraceutical product due to its better solubility, absorption, bioavailability, and thermal stability than the untreated sample.

Docking Studies of HIV-1 Reverse Transcriptase and HIV-1 Protease with Phytocompounds of Carissa Carandas L.

Background Carissa carandas L. is a well-known wild fruit plant distributed through-out the India and also present in other countries. The fruits are rich in nutrients and minerals. A number of medicinally important phytochemicals such as carrisone, carindone, carandinol, lupeol, scopoletin, stigmasterol, β-sitosterol, myo-inositol, β-amyrin, Des-n-methylnoracronycine etc. have been reported from the extract of this plant. Being safe and cost effective molecules, the activity of phytochemicals against HIV-1 enzymes needs to be screened. Objective The aim of this study was to screen the potent phytocompound of C. carandas against human immunodeficiency virus-1 using docking method. Methods Total nine compounds viz. carandinol, caridone, carrisone, lupeol, p-coumaric acid, gallic acid, rutin, scopoletin and ursolic acid were used for in-silico study towards drug development against human immunodeficiency virus-1 reverse transcriptase (HIV-1RT; PDB ID: 1REV) and human immunodeficiency virus-1 protease (PDB ID:1EBY) using Autodock software. Results The qualitative characterization of the extracts showed the presence of a number of phytochemicals such as phenolics, flavonoids, alkaloids, terepnoids, terpenes, steroids, glycosides etc. Carandinol was observed as most effective anti-HIV-1 molecule having lowest binding energy and small inhibition coefficient. Another compound, p-coumaric acid, showed least effectiveness against human immunodeficiency virus- 1 reverse transcriptase or human immunodeficiency virus-1 protease showing highest binding energy and inhibition coefficients among all the evaluated phytocompounds. Conclusion The in-silico study demonstrated that some phytoconstituents of C. carandas exhibit potential anti-human immunodeficiency virus -1 activity and hence can be optimized to develop as a drug candidate in future.

Application of Acrylates in Enhanced Oil Recovery

Currently, enhanced oil recovery (EOR) acquire increased attention to recover more residual oil trapped after the primary and secondary process in petroleum reservoirs. EOR comprise different technologies involving chemical, thermal, miscible flooding techniques. Chemical flooding by the polymer is a widely implemented method on the academic and industrial scale. In this chapter, the authors discuss polymer flooding using polyacrylates that involve hydrolyzed polyacrylamide (HPAM), hydrophobically associated polyacrylamides (HAPAM), which grafted with different vinyl monomers such as acrylic acid, methyl methacrylates, and 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulfonic acid (AMPS). These polymers increase the viscosity of injected brine solutions, as a result, decrease mobility ratio and enhance sweeping efficiency, so the water act as a piston, which pushes oil in front of it, and consequently increase the recovery factor. The advantages and disadvantages of these polymers as well as comparing different flooding scenarios are reported.

Yeast Species Mediated Bioprocesses and Bio-Products for Biotechnological Application

Yeast as unicellular organism, has shown multiple application due to exhibition of noble ability in its cells. And engineered yeast has found more suitability in bioprocesses application as well as adverse conditions adaptation. Different types of yeast strains showed their best capability to adapt the salt and sugar rich environment with their optimal growth capability. These strains, used as suitable and novel cell factories for production of value added bio-products (via utilization of fermentation processes) and also for different types of bioprocesses. Application of yeast species in biotechnology field, enhanced in current periods, due to conversion of its wild to engineer strain, suitable for bioprocesses utilization and also for different types of biochemical synthesis. Different yeast species identified due to known their genetic, regulatory mechanism and also competitive metabolic pathways. In this regards, different type of engineering approaches (for genetic or pathways modification), applied to construct the optimal and suitable cell factories for different types of bioprocesses as utilized in different sectors (foods with mineral or protein rich, bread, brewing, cosmetics, chemical, agriculture, pharmacy and distillation industries) via improving the quality of bio-products. Further, in silico designed based metabolic engineering technique showed the improvement in performance of yeast strain. System and synthetic biology with engineering approaches applied to further improve the yeast mediated bioprocesses as well as biochemical products formation for industrial or biotechnological application. Some bio-products such as functional bio-molecule, different types of alcoholic biofuels, organic acids and enzymes etc are good examples of yeast mediated biochemicals products, utilized more frequently in our life. Author will focus recent research and development on bio-product formation or bioprocesses with their regulatory control mechanism in different yeast strains.

Molecular Composition of and Potential Health Benefits Offered by Natural East African Virgin Sunflower Oil Products: A 400 MHz 1H NMR Analysis Study

Objectives: Sunflower oil (SFO) is regularly employed for cosmetic, emollient and food frying purposes, the latter representing its foremost use globally. Therefore, full investigations of the molecular composition and quality of SFO products are a major requirement. In this study high-field 1H NMR analysis was employed to explore the molecular composition and authenticities of East African virgin (EAV) SFO products, particularly their acylglycerol fatty acid contents, together with those of selected minor constituents. Results acquired were statistically compared to those obtained on commercially-available, EU-approved refined SFO products via NMR-linked multivariate chemometrics strategies. Methodology: High-field 1H NMR spectra of EAV and refined SFOs (n = 55 and 4 respectively) were acquired at an operating frequency of 400 MHz. Their triacylglycerol fatty acid, triacylglycerol hydrolysis product, and sterol and stanol contents were determined via intelligent frequency bucketing and electronic integration of selected resonances. Univariate analysis-of-variance, and multivariate ROC curve evaluations were conducted to determine the magnitude and statistical significance of analyte concentration differences between these two sample classifications. Further multivariate NMR-linked chemometrics analyses such as principal component, random forest and support vector machine classification analyses were also utilised for this purpose. Key Results: Multicomponent 1H NMR analysis demonstrated that EAV SFOs had significantly higher and lower contents of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), respectively, than those of refined SFOs. Furthermore, significantly higher concentrations of ‘health-friendly’, cholesterol-blocking sterols and stanols were also found in these virgin SFO products. Major Conclusions: 1H NMR analysis provides much valuable molecular information regarding the composition and virginal status of SFOs.The high [MUFA]:[PUFA] content ratio of unrefined EAV SFO products renders them more suitable and safer for commercial or domestic deep-frying episodes than refined SFOs (MUFAs are much more resistant to thermally-induced peroxidation than PUFAs). These products also potentially offer valuable health benefits in view of their high natural sterol and stanol contents.

In Silico Inhibition of Essential Candida albicans Proteins by Arenicin, a Marine Antifungal Peptide

Fungal infections increased substantially in the last years, becoming a relevant public health problem. Many of these infections account for high rates of morbidity and mortality. The emergence of resistant fungal clinical isolates have also motivate studies to find new antifungal therapies. Candida albicans is an oportunistic pathogen and affects a great number of immunocompromised patients worldwide. The marine ecosystem has been considered a rich source of bioactive metabolites due to the complexity and originality of its structures. Proteins and peptides from marine organisms have been shown to have antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antimalarial, anticancer, antimicrobial and antifungal properties. Arenicins are antimicrobial peptides isolated from the marine lugworm Arenicola marina with 21 amino acid residues in a β-hairpin structure. Dihydrofolate reductase, exo-b-(1,3)-glucanase and sterol 14α-demethylase are essential C. albincas enzymes that take part in DNA, cell wall and membrane metabolism, respectively. The present study evaluates the interaction of arenicin with important enzymes of C. albicans related to cell wall, ergosterol and DNA metabolism in order to elucidate possible molecular targets. We showed through an in silico approach, that a single compound from a marine worm (A. marina), can bind to three C. albicans essential proteins. The interaction occurs in regions inside the active site or at least near, with amino acid residues evaluated as hot spots. Arenicin is a new promising antifugal drug. The next step is to investigate protein-protein interactions performed by DHFR, EBG and CYP51 and assess whether arenicin is able to disrupt essential interaction or not.

Efficacy of DHA and EPA on Serum Triglyceride Levels of Healthy Participants: Systematic Review

Background Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) are categorized as omega-3 poly unsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) that are present in fish oil, etc. DHA and EPA omega-3 PUFAs have a well-established fasting serum triglycerides (TG) lowering effect that may result in normal lipidemia in hyperlipidemic patients. In general, omega-3 PUFAs, such as DHA and EPA, can be ingested easily, and because they are highly safe, they are assumed to be suitable for controlling fasting serum TG in the serum of those who do not require drug treatment. To the best of our knowledge, however, almost all systematic reviews on the effects of omega-3 PUFAs on lowering fasting serum TG are directed at patients fulfilling the diagnostic criteria of dyslipidemia. Objectives To review and confirm the preventive effect of omega-3 PUFAs against hypertriglyceridemia or the effect on nondrug treatment in patients with a mild disease, a systematic review was conducted to determine whether there was a fasting serum TG-lowering effect in subjects without disease and those with a slightly higher triglyceride level who consumed DHA and/or EPA orally compared to those with placebo or no intake of DHA and/or EPA. Search Methods We evaluated articles from searches of PubMed (1946-February 2016), Ichushi-Web (1977-February 2016), and J Dream III (JST Plus, 1981-February 2016; JMED Plus, 1981-February 2016). The keywords were set as follows: “DHA” or “docosahexaenoic acid” or “EPA” or “eicosapentaenoic acid” and “TG” or “triglyceride” or “triglycerol” or “triacylglycerol” or “neutral lipid.”. In addition to the literature group obtained by the database search, we included participants not suffering from any disease (i.e., excluding mild hypertriglyceridemia). Eligibility Criteria Before the test selection process, the following inclusion criteria were defined. Participants were healthy men and women including those with mild hypertriglyceridemia (fasting serum TG level, 150-199 mg/dL [1.69-2.25 mmol/L)). Intervention was defined as orally ingested DHA and/or EPA. Comparison was made to placebo intake or no intake of DHA and/or EPA. Results were measured for the fasting serum TG level. The test design was RCT, and quasi-RCT. Data Abstraction Various characteristics were extracted from original reports using a standardized data extraction form, including the author of the study, research year, research design, subject characteristics (sex, age, sample size), period, dose of DHA and/or EPA (mg/day), and comparison group. Main Results We identified 37 documents for review. Among the 37 reports used to integrate literature results, 25 revealed a decrease in fasting serum TG level ​​due to the oral ingestion of DHA and/or EPA. Sixteen studies on subjects without disease and 21 on subjects with slightly higher fasting serum TG levels were separated and stratified analysis was conducted. Ten of the 16 (normal TG participant) and 15 of the 21 studies (slightly higher TG participant) respectively, indicated that at least 133 mg/day of DHA and/or EPA intervention provided a statistically significant decrease in the fasting serum TG level between an intervention group versus a placebo group.

The Current Immunoassays and Emerging Immunogenomic Approaches for Immunomonitoring Cancer and Infectious Diseases

As remarkable advances have been made in immunotherapies, the overall goal of immunotherapy has become the selection of patients and evaluating the benefits of treatment. One of the major obstacles to develop immunotherapies is the lack of effective immune monitoring. Monitoring of key changes in the immune system during immunotherapy (immunomonitoring) provides important insights into efficacy as well as the immune mechanisms of response at the molecular and cellular levels. Immunomonitoring techniques include traditional immunoassays that use specific antibodies to recognize the analytes of interest, new high-throughput immunoassays that target immune cells and nucleic acids, and less classical immunogenomic approaches that rely on genome-wide profiling and computational analysis on various types of clinical samples. Substantial progress has been made in the application of immunomonitoring strategies to pre-clinical and clinical studies, especially for patients with cancer and infectious diseases. Current and emerging immunoassays performed in clinical practice will be examined herein, and immunogenomic approaches that complement these techniques will be highlighted and compared with traditional methods. Finally, we will discuss several new computational methods for analyzing gene signatures for immunomonitoring, including gene expression data profiling by microarray, the nCounter technique, regular RNA-seq, and single-cell RNA-seq. Novel immunomonitoring techniques, especially immunogenomic approaches, will continue to be developed to facilitate assessment of immunotherapeutic response and predict patient outcomes in cancer and infectious disease.  

Evaluation of Serum Vitamin D Levels in Foster's Children Care Center

Vitamin D, the sunshine vitamin, is now recognized not only for its importance in promoting bone health in children and adults, but also for its other health benefits, including reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as autoimmune diseases, common cancer, and cardiovascular diseases. Ultraviolet radiation of the sun with wavelengths of 290-310 nm penetrates into the skin and converts 7-dehydrocholesterol to previtamin D3, which quickly transforms to vitamin D3. Vitamin D (D represents either D2 or D3) made in the skin or ingested through diet is biologically inert and requires two successive hydroxylations first in the liver on carbon 25 to form 25-hydroxyvitamin D 25(OH)D and then in the kidney for a hydroxylation on carbon 1 to form the biologically active form of vitamin D, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25(OH)2D) 121419. The concentration of the produced 25-hydroxy vitamin D in blood circulation is 1,000 times more than 1,25-dihydroxy vitamin D 4, and it is regarded as a standard indicator of vitamin D status in humans 3. 25-hydroxy vitamin D half-life is about 2-3 weeks and it is regulated by calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), and serum parathyroid hormone (PTH) to some extent. 25-hydroxy vitamin D content also reflects the amount of vitamin D produced in the skin after exposure to sunlight or received through food intake 56. Guidelines for vitamin D insufficiency/deficiency defined by serum 25(OH)D concentrations have been published from many countries and regions all over the world 7891011. Vitamin D deficiency is a pandemic problem. According to global estimations, more than one billion people around the world suffer from vitamin D deficiency. Among Iranian population, the incidence of vitamin D deficiency varies from 2.5 to 98.5% based on geographic area 1213. Various factors may give rise to vitamin D deficiency, including skin pigments, low levels of vitamin D in diet (insufficient fish oil and egg yolk intake), malnutrition, genetic factors, exclusive breast feeding, vitamin D deficiency of mother during pregnancy, prematurity, chronic use of drugs (e.g., anticonvulsants, aluminum-containing anti-acids, rifampcin, isoniazid, antifungal drugs, antiviral drugs, and glucocorticoids), winter and obesity 113. Cultural habits, the need for full body coverage during outdoor activities and the lack of sunlight programs are the risk factors for low vitamin D levels in women 151617. Children enter foster care due to early childhood adverse experiences such as poor prenatal and infant health care, food insecurity, chronic stress, and the effects of abuse and neglect. As a result, they are at higher risk for poor physical, psychological, neuroendocrine and neurocognitive outcomes compared to others. Foster children are at risk for growth and nutritional deficiencies due to their poor nutritional environment prior to placement in foster care. Insufficient caloric intake results in growth deficiencies. Evidence showed that the risk of stunting and underweight is high in this population 18. The risk of developing hypovitaminosis D was significantly higher in children living in foster homes. One reason is that they are at higher risk of child abuse, emotional deprivation and physical neglect than children living with their families. Moreover, these children most likely do not spend much time outdoors and they lack adequate sun exposure. Another reason is that as children grow up in institutional care, they shift from a diet of vitamin D–fortified formula milk to cooked food, which may not be fortified with vitamin D 1. Iranian government has made some efforts to apply efficient interventions to reduce the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency, and the country’s healthcare system should be managed through accurate planning. Yet, in this country, studies on vitamin D deficiency in children living in foster homes are very limited, and given that timely diagnosis and treatment of this deficiency is vital, this research is conducted in Ali Asghar foster home in Mashhad, Iran.

How Knowledge on Microbiota may be Helpful to Establish an Optimal Diet for Health Maintenance

In the last few years, gut microbiota has been identified to be an essential mediator in health and disease. In fact, it interacts with various organs and systems in the body, including brain, lung, liver, bone, cardiovascular system, and others. Microbiota-derived metabolites such as the short chain fatty acid (SCFA) butyrate are primary signals, which link the gut microbiota and physiology. Then, the findings on the roles of microbiota profoundly change not only the key concepts of biology and medicine, but also of nutrition. In fact, it is currently evident how the main task of nutrition is not to nourish us, but to maintain a comfortable environment for the intestinal microbiota. In this way, it works in symbiosis with us, correctly controlling the functioning of the organs, the physiological parameters and the cellular regenerative processes. It is also evident that the strength of reparative processes correlates with the ability of digestive system to process complex foods, which increases during weaning, a period of time in which the diversity of bacterial strains increases. Therefore, a task of food is to keep trained the digestive system, to which it corresponds an high microbiota diversity. Elderly leads to reduced microbiota diversity to which corresponds an intestinal frailty, responsible for the frailty of the elderly. In conclusion, a correct diet may not only keep us in good health but may also guarantee us longer longevity.

Enhanced Alkaloid Production from Cell Culture System of Catharanthus roseus in Combined Effect of Nutrient Salts, Sucrose and Plant Growth Regulators

Callus and biomass culture of Catharanthus roseus L. were established to check for the presence of total alkaloid and its subsequent yield. Various treatments like strength of nutrient salts, sucrose concentrations and combinations of plant growth regulators (PGR’s) were applied to both MS and B5 in agar as well as suspension medium to test their effects on enhanced alkaloid content and its yield. There was no significant difference in any of the observable parameters of fresh wt, dry wt, alkaloid content, production, productivity and yield if the culture were treated similarly in both types of media formulations (MS or B5 salts). Physical state (agar solidified or the liquid suspension) of the medium had significant effect on all the parameters particular on fresh wt, alkaloid content and yields. Although, the fresh wt. and dry wt. of biomass in suspension culture was 2-3 times less than that of callus obtained from agar medium. However, the alkaloid content and yield was 2-3 times higher in suspension culture compared to agar medium in similar treatments. The highest alkaloid content observed was 5.67mg/g dwt in B5 suspension medium containing 3% sucrose and modified with 0.5mg/l 2,4-Dichlorophenoxy acetic acid (2,4-D) + 1 mg/l Kinetin (KIN) + 2mg/l α- naphthalene acetic acid (NAA). The combined effects of these factors on the enhanced production of total alkaloids were expected to contain higher yield of anticancer vinblastine and vincristine in the cell suspension culture system.

Hepatic Metabolomics Profiling of Cyprinus Carpio after Acute Cypermethrin Toxicity

In the current study, The GC-MS metabolomics approach was used to evaluate the effect of cypermethrin on the metabolic profile in liver tissue of common carp fish. Fish were exposed to low and high concentrations of cypermethrin (0.1 and 1 µg/L respectively) for 24 and 96 h with subsequent PCA analysis to illustrate the response of the metabolic system after exposure to the pyrethroid. Cypermethrin induced obvious alteration in the intermediates of TCA cycle and encouraged consumption of non-carbohydrate sources in liver at all-time points. Additionally, cypermethrin exposure reduced the level of several amino acids and induced damage to the nucleotides reflecting the effect of cypermethrin on purine metabolism. GC-MS based metabolomics approach is a new and powerful tool to understand the toxicological effects and the underlying mechanism of cypermethrin on fish.

The Raw pH in Plants: A Multifaceted Parameter

The measurement of the in vivo raw pH of vegetative organs is a unusual way obtaining plant knowledge. The authenticity of the pH parameter of the leaf and its independence from soil pH has already been highlighted. In the present work we observe how and to what extent water-temperature mechanisms as well as bio-fertilizers inocula can affect the raw pH and how great the biodiversity is in plants. A trial with Arabidopsis thaliana in a phytotrone has shown that, in the dark, the raw pH did not change from +18 to +35 °C (b = -0.0027 N.S.), while in the light, the regression coefficients were significant and negative, and the acidification in the leaves progressed from high (-0.0097) to normal (-0.0127) and then to low (-0.0370) water level. We have confirmed that warming induces a decrease of raw petiole pH of -0.070 pH C°-1 in grapevine leaves. In accordance with water-temperature mechanisms, the raw pH in grapevines has been found to be significantly higher in well-watered plants (pH = 4.29) than in stressed ones (4.12), with a pH decay of -3.9%. On the other hand, an average reduction of 0.10 units of raw pH would signal an increase in water stress of about -0.59 Mpa. Among the phenomena that can influence the raw pH, we have outlined three biotic factors: i) acidification as a result of a symbiotic farming fertilization i.e through the use of mycorrhizal and microbial fertilizers, with an average decay of around -3%, as a probable signature of symbiosis; ii) an “acida plantarum natura” scenario over 49 species, ranging from pH 3.06 to 6.38 ; iii) a strong (R2= 0.9) inverse polynomial pseudo-relationship of the number of fungicide sprays on the raw pH in a set of 15 species. It is suggested that this simple new multifaceted parameter can deserve interest.

Validated Analytical Spectrofluorimetric Method for Quantitation of Diphenhydramine HCl in Commercial Dosage Forms

Diphenhydramine HClis a weakly fluorescent drug having tertiary amine group forming ion pair complex with eosin Y in dichloromethane at pH 5 in disodium hydrogen phosphate-citric acid buffer solution. The complex formation was the basis for the development of new analytical method for determination of active diphenhydramine in pharmaceutical formulations. The stoichiometric ratio between diphenhydramine and eosin Y was studied by mole ratio method and found to be 2:1. The ion-pair complex showed maximum fluorescence emission intensity at 554 nm with excitation at 259 nm. The linear dynamic range was obtained in the concentration range of 2-22 µg mL-1 with a linear equation of FI = 0.361 + 13.675 C. The apparent Gibb’s free energy (ΔGº) was calculated and found to be -80.783 KJ mol-1, confirmed the feasibility of the reaction. The proposed method was successfully applied to the determination of diphenhydramine HCl in pharmaceutical formulations and in good agreement with the reference method.

Morpho-Anatomical and Physicochemical Standardization of Diospyros malabarica (Desr.) Kostel Stem Bark

Diospyros malabarica (Desr.) Kostel synonym Diospyros peregrina Gurke (Family: Ebenaceae) is a medium sized evergreen tree commonly known as Kendu in Assamese. The plant has ethnomedicinal significance and used by various ethnic communities of North-East India to treat various disorders like dysentery, diabetes, diarrhea malaria, ulcer and wounds. However, detailed scientific information is not available to identify the plant material, in order to ascertain its quality and purity. Therefore, the present work was carried out to perform morpho-anatomical and physicochemical analysis of D. malabarica stem bark. The bark is externally dark brown to black in color and rough having characteristics odor and astringent taste. The microscopy of bark reveals the presence of polygonal thick walled cork, 3-4 layered phellogen, 7-8 layered phelloderm, stone cells, phloem fibers and medullary rays. Stem bark powder showed thick walled cork cells, thick walled elongated phloem fibers, lignified stone cells and rhomboidal crystals of calcium oxalate. Further, physicochemical analysis of the bark power showed loss on drying, total ash, water soluble ash, and acid insoluble ash as 6.2, 5.6, 1.1, 2.45, and 5.7% w/w respectively. The alcohol and water soluble extractives values of the stem bark were 10.6 and 16.8% w/w respectively. The result of preliminary phytochemical screening indicates presence of triterpenoids, saponins, tannins, flavonoids and sterols. The findings of this study will facilitate pharmacognostic standardization of the plant material and aid in the preparation of an herbal monograph for the species.

Using A “Superrooting”Cultivar of Taxus Chinensis Var. Mairei to Unravel Antioxidative Enzymes’ and Micrornas’ Role on Adventitious Rooting

Rooting of cuttings is very important for production of economically important plants. We produced thousands of plantlets in Taxus chinensisvar. mairei using the technology of rooting of cuttings and identified two types of rooted cuttings, one with low rate of root formation and another with high rate of root formation. To determine the physiological role of antioxidative enzymes and microRNAs during the process of rooting, we measured the levels of these antioxidative enzymes and microRNAs in the stem portion, needles, roots, and basal portion of cuttings. Compared to the cuttings with low rate of root formation, cuttings with high rate of root formation had higher expression of polyphenoloxidase (PPO), catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POD), ascorbate peroxidase (APOX), glutathione reductase (GR), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in the adventitious roots and basal portion of the rooted cuttings 77 days after planting. In the basal portion of cuttings, the content of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and total phenols were decreased and the content of antioxidants was increased, but they did not changed in the needles of cuttings during planting. Analysis of microRNAs by quantitative realtime PCR demonstrated that expression of miR162, miR408, and miR857 increases in the basal portion of cuttings, but not in the stem portion of cuttings, 77 days after planting. Expression of miR408 and miR857 were also increased in the needles of cuttings 77 days after planting. Changes of these antioxidative enzymes and microRNAs associated with the rooting features of T. chinensisvar. maireicuttings and their functions have been discussed.